Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the tenth session of the Sharjah International Travel and Tourism Forum commenced at the Expo Center Sharjah. His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, presided over the opening ceremony of the event organized by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. The theme for this year’s forum is “Sustainable Tourism: Qualitative Pathways that Shape Future Horizons.”
His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, highlighted the UAE’s commitment to investing in tourism and sustainable practices, aligning with global standards. The tenth principle of the economic principles document announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasizes developing world-class logistical infrastructure, including ports, airports, and airlines.
Addressing sustainability in the tourism sector, Al Marri underscored its importance for future growth, especially considering global environmental and social conditions. He pointed out the UAE’s initiatives, such as the National Tourism Strategy 2031, aimed at positioning the country as a premier global tourism identity and attracting significant investments.
Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, outlined the forum’s focus on sustainable tourism as a pivotal sector in the global economy. Predicting that the sustainability sector will contribute over 11% of the global economy by 2033, Al Midfa cited research indicating that travelers prefer options prioritizing the planet’s safety.
Dr. Nawal Al Hosani, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), provided insights into the country’s sustainability journey and climate change initiatives. The UAE, hosting COP28 this year, stands as a leader in climate action and sustainable development, with clear efforts in waste management and agriculture contributing to food security.
The forum, aligning with the UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability, aims to showcase the country’s rich heritage of sustainable practices and strengthen international collective action. With discussions covering sustainability, environmental practices, and strategies to mitigate impacts, the forum explores the economic and social returns of sustainable tourism practices. It also delves into the latest trends, innovations, and technological roles in sustainable tourism, emphasizing cooperation to achieve sustainability goals. The accompanying exhibition features wide participation from Sharjah government bodies, showcasing initiatives supporting sustainable tourism and contributing to the emirate’s global standing.
The event concluded with His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi presenting the Forum’s shield to His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, and honoring sponsors, partners, and speakers. The Deputy Ruler of Sharjah toured the exhibition, gaining insights into services and initiatives that bolster sustainable tourism, enrich the emirate’s economy, and highlight its heritage and identity.
