The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) briefed representatives of hotel industry, malls and commercial establishments on the Authority’s plans for 2014. The meeting discussed its major promotional campaigns, participation in key international tourism exhibitions and road shows around the world. HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, director general, SCTDA said: “The interaction is a new step in the process of cooperation between the Authority and tourism industry partners. It underscores the Authority’s keenness to boost communication and cooperation in order to reinvigorate the growing tourism sector. This sector has been attracting more than 1.7 million tourists a year and witnessing stable growth. In the first nine months of 2013, the Emirate recorded a 10% increase in tourist arrivals.” The initiative presents the industry with opportunities to join hands with global tourism and hospitality sector players and attract more international tourists and boosting occupancy rates. The SCTDA officials also emphasised how participation and showcasing of their product at international forums could help hotels and commercial players attract more international visitors, boost hotel occupancy rates, drive sales and help the Emirate’s economy in general. Source: Travel Daily