Sharjah's hotel sector surpassed the 1 million guest mark in just eight months, reinforcing the emirate's growing appeal as a regional tourism destination. Hotel guests in Sharjah from January to August 2024 reached 1,057,307 — a 3.07% increase compared to the 1,025,317 guests recorded over the same period in 2023, according to the Sharjah Tourism and Hospitality Sector Performance Indicator from the Planning and Development Department. Hotel occupancy averaged a solid 66% across the period.
SCTDA's Connected Meeting Reveals 2024 Numbers
The milestone figures were disclosed at the annual 'Connected Meeting' hosted by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) on September 26, 2024, at Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park. The event, chaired by Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, brought together delegates from across the public and private tourism sector.
Al Midfa called on stakeholders to strengthen strategic partnerships as part of Sharjah's broader tourism master plan, noting the sector's critical role in the UAE's non-oil GDP, to which it contributes over 11%.
Russia, India, and UAE Lead Source Markets
Russia was the top international source market, accounting for 21% of hotel guests — approximately 160,000 visitors. India followed at 10%, with Oman contributing 6%. Domestic UAE travel also played a notable role, representing 11% of the overall guest distribution.
Infrastructure and Future Strategy
The meeting highlighted a range of improvements made to Sharjah's tourism offering, including advances in marine transport and the development of new tourist attractions. SCTDA outlined future strategies centred on global collaborations, AI-integrated marketing and advertising, and sophisticated multi-platform targeting systems. Talks with shopping centres and retail outlets were also held to promote sustainable sector growth.
Al Midfa emphasised plans for extensive infrastructure development — including expansion of Sharjah International Airport — alongside the introduction of year-round events designed to draw visitors throughout every season.
Business Continuity Management
SCTDA also unveiled its new Business Continuity Management System, designed to ensure uninterrupted service delivery during crises. The system further cements Sharjah's ambition to position itself as a premier global tourism destination capable of maintaining operations through disruptions.
