Interview Of H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority by Travel Links
How have you adjusted your strategies to attract the Indian outbound market in 2024? Which segments of Indian outbound travel are you focusing on, such as leisure, MICE, weddings, etc.?
India remains one of the most dynamic and fast-growing outbound travel markets globally. According to McKinsey & Company, Indian travellers spent approximately $17 billion on international travel during the 2023–24 fiscal year—highlighting the scale and potential of this market.In the first 5 months of 2025, Sharjah recorded around 32% increase in Indian tourist arrivals, welcoming 88 thousand visitors compared to 66 thousand visitors during the same period in 2024. This growth was driven by our consistent efforts through trade shows, roadshows, strategic partnerships, and targeted marketing initiatives designed specifically for the Indian traveller. In 2025, we refined our approach to cater to evolving Indian traveller expectations by focusing on key high-value segments, including:
- Adventure & Experiential Tourism – Sharjah’s unique geography allows us to offer a wide range of eco-adventures, desert safaris, mountain retreats, watersports, and high-profile events like the F1H2O Grand Prix of Sharjah, which appeal strongly to Indian thrill-seekers.
- MICE and Weddings – We are actively positioning Sharjah as a boutique destination for MICE events and intimate destination weddings, leveraging our modern infrastructure, accessibility, and cultural richness to attract planners and organizers from India.
To support these efforts, we have continued our B2B and B2C engagement through sales missions, familiarisation trips, roadshows, and digital campaigns targeting both trade partners and end consumers. These efforts aim to raise awareness about Sharjah’s diverse offerings, from culture and heritage to luxury and soft adventure. By tailoring our messaging and products to align with India’s rapidly evolving travel preferences, we remain committed to deepening our engagement with the Indian outbound market in 2025 and beyond.
What actions have been taken to promote the growth of the tourism sector in your country, and what new attractions are set to open in 2026?
Sharjah’s tourism sector continues to thrive in 2025, building on strategic investments in infrastructure, sustainability, and curated visitor experiences. Our success is rooted in creating a tourism environment that is both authentic and future-focused, offering personalised, immersive experiences across diverse travel segments.
Recent projects like the Kalba Road expansion and continued enhancements to critical transport corridors have significantly improved accessibility across Sharjah. Additionally, the revitalisation of Kalba, a historic coastal town, is well underway—featuring restored heritage landmarks, a newly constructed clock tower roundabout, and a fully redesigned Corniche that will enhance both tourism and local engagement.
Sharjah’s strong emphasis on sustainability is also central to our tourism development. On the cultural front, Sharjah remains a regional leader in heritage tourism. Sites such as the UNESCO-nominated Mleiha Archaeological Centre and the Heart of Sharjah are undergoing carefully managed modernisation to improve the visitor experience while preserving historical authenticity. These cultural assets continue to attract both regional and international travellers seeking depth and connection.
Looking ahead to 2026, Sharjah is set to further expand its tourism offerings with the opening of new hotels and enhanced visitor experiences that cater to evolving global travel preferences. Through a balanced approach that prioritises sustainability, heritage, and modernisation, Sharjah remains committed to positioning itself as a distinctive and forward-looking destination in the global tourism landscape.
Can you provide details about the latest infrastructure projects in Sharjah aimed at enhancing tourism? Are there any collaborative cross-country initiatives underway?
Sharjah is actively investing in modern infrastructure to boost tourism by enhancing connectivity, supporting sustainability, and preserving its rich cultural heritage. These initiatives are designed to ensure a seamless and high-quality experience for all visitors.
One of the landmark projects is the $272 million Kalba Road expansion, completed in 2020, which has significantly improved travel within the emirate. Kalba, celebrated for its natural beauty and historical significance, is currently undergoing revitalisation efforts that integrate modern infrastructure while maintaining its cultural and environmental integrity, positioning it as a leading tourist destination.
Sharjah is also progressing with the $336 million expansion of Sharjah International Airport, reflecting a commitment to technological advancement and enhancing visitor arrival experiences. This project is a joint effort involving federal and local government authorities alongside private sector partners, ensuring the development of sustainable and world-class infrastructure.
On a regional level, Sharjah is benefiting from collaborative infrastructure projects aimed at improving inter-emirate and cross-border connectivity. The Dubai-Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) project, valued at $102 million, has successfully reduced traffic congestion by approximately 40%, facilitating smoother travel between these key emirates.
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