Page 172 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT- NOVEMBER 2024

increase of 4-6% in the region in 2024, contributing to global economic support.

The Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority emphasised that
logistical developments in the tourism sector and infrastructure improvements are attracting the
attention of travelers and companies, thereby bolstering the sector. The Middle East region is the
only one that has seen growth in tourist numbers, reaching 122% in 2023 compared to 2019.

Al Midfa added, "// Tourism is one of the vital sectors that significantly contribute to supporting the
local and global economy, as it provides employment opportunities, increases income, attracts
investments, and the wise leadership in the country shows great interest in developing the tourism
sector through the launch of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to enhance the
country's position as a leading global tourist destination."

Khaled Jasim Al Midfa addressed the tourism development in the Emirate of Sharjah, stating, "//
Today, we witness a continuation of the developmental momentum in the Emirate of Sharjah across
various sectors thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi,
Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who shows great interest in developing the tourism
sector and enhancing the emirate's status on the global tourism map. Under his leadership, Sharjah
has experienced significant growth in various vital sectors, making it one of the prominent tourist
and cultural destinations in the region."

Al Midfa concluded his speech by speaking about the forum and its objectives, saying, "// The
current edition of the forum discusses how digitization and innovation can enhance growth in the
tourism sector and make our destinations preferred by tourists from all around the world. Through
our participation, we emphasise the importance of cooperation between government entities, the
private sector, and advanced technology companies to achieve sustainability for a promising
tourism future.

Abdullah Al Saleh, Deputy Minister of Economy, delivered a speech praising the excellent
organisation of the forum, affirming that the forum provides an ideal platform for discussing ways
and mechanisms to elevate Emirati tourism to a new level. He highlighted the importance of
exploring the best local and global practices in tourism development through the topics on its
agenda, considering them crucial pillars in the tourism sector. Al Saleh addressed key points that
should be focused on, including developing a distinguished digital infrastructure, creating
opportunities for the private sector for investment and expansion, and continuously updating
governmental policies and strategies.

He described the tourism sector as one of the most important developmental drivers for the
national economy, citing notable achievements of the UAE where it ranked first regionally in the
Tourism and Travel Competitiveness Index and sixth globally as the largest market in tourism
revenue, reaching 191 billion dirhams in 2023. He also mentioned the increase in hotel guests in
the country, reaching 15.3 million during the first six months of the current year.

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