Page 186 - SHARJAH AIRPORT PR REPORT - DECEMBER 2023

Kindi, a Board Member of Sharjah International Marine Sports Club; Nicolo Di San Germano,
UIM F1 H2O promoter; racers; and media representatives.

The final rounds of the Sharjah Grand Prix, set to take place Saturday and Sunday (December 9

- 10), will witness an exhilarating contest between elite world-class drivers.

Three local teams in the finals

The UAE proudly boasts 3 out of 10 competing teams, including the Abu Dhabi Team,

comprising American Sean Torrente (Boat 1), Emirati Thani Al Qamzi (Boat 2), and Rashid Al
Qamzi (Boat 5). Dutchman Ferdinand Zandbergen (Boat 12) and Finn Sami Selio Boat 11)

represent the Sharjah Team. Meanwhile, the Victory Team consists of Emirati Ahmed Al Fahim
(Boat 3) and Swedish Eric Stark (Boat 4).

His Excellency Khaled Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, stated that Sharjah has been
bringing together world champions and marine sport enthusiasts for 22 years in one place,

which translates the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al
Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to boost the emirate's global

tourism appeal.

“According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), sports tourism is a

fundamental pillar as it is one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism, accounting for about
10% of global tourism spending, with a projected growth rate of 17.5 per cent between 2023-

2030. Therefore, this championship represents a great opportunity for Sharjah to strengthen
its global reputation as a distinctive destination, hosting major events throughout the year,

promoting the emirate's attractiveness and capabilities that support various vital sectors and
the national economy,” the The Chairman further stated.

For his part, Humaid Al Kindi, Board Member of Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, said:
"Organising this international event alongside our strategic partner, SCDTA, aligns with the

emirate's successful and ongoing efforts to develop Sharjah as a preferred global destination
for tourism and sports. At the same time, this event aims to encourage more Emirati and Arab

youth to invest their potential in marine sports and achieve excellence in this field.”

https://sharjah24.ae/en/Articles/2023/12/07/Sharjah-World-Championship-Week-begins-on-Friday