News
Dubai's neighbour woos visitors
09 May 2006
While Dubai gains most attention from visitors to the United Arab Emirates, the neighbouring emirate of Sharjah is trying to boost its popularity.
Sharjah authorities aim to double the number of visitor numbers by 2010 to 2m, although it will still be overshadowed by Dubai, which hopes to attract 15m tourists in four years' time.
To cater for the rising number of visitors the emirate intends to double its hotel capacity over the next five years.
In contrast to Dubai, which offers the best in modern facilities, Sharjah is trying to sell itself to the world with its preserved local heritage, which includes sites of Arabian and Islamic importance.
Mohamed Ali Al Noman, director of the Sharjah tourism authority, said: 'We're promoting Sharjah both here and internationally because we have a lot to offer in terms of culture.'
Sharjah shows a more traditional side of the UAE, as many of the people that work in Dubai choose to live in Sharjah. Markets in Sharjah City include the Souq al-Arsah, which is believed to one the oldest souqs in the country, and haggling over prices can bring big discounts.
Coastal resorts in the emirate are also being developed on the Persian Gulf.
© Adfero Ltd
Sharjah authorities aim to double the number of visitor numbers by 2010 to 2m, although it will still be overshadowed by Dubai, which hopes to attract 15m tourists in four years' time.
To cater for the rising number of visitors the emirate intends to double its hotel capacity over the next five years.
In contrast to Dubai, which offers the best in modern facilities, Sharjah is trying to sell itself to the world with its preserved local heritage, which includes sites of Arabian and Islamic importance.
Mohamed Ali Al Noman, director of the Sharjah tourism authority, said: 'We're promoting Sharjah both here and internationally because we have a lot to offer in terms of culture.'
Sharjah shows a more traditional side of the UAE, as many of the people that work in Dubai choose to live in Sharjah. Markets in Sharjah City include the Souq al-Arsah, which is believed to one the oldest souqs in the country, and haggling over prices can bring big discounts.
Coastal resorts in the emirate are also being developed on the Persian Gulf.
© Adfero Ltd
