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The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) is making great strides in enhancing tourism promotion for the emirate of Sharjah, under the directions of HH Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

So said SCTDA Chairman HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qassimi in a speech delivered at the Authoritys Staff Annual Ceremony, which was held at the Marbella Hotel and Resort in Sharjah.

Al Qassimi explained that the Authority implements promotional campaigns based on detailed studies of global economic changes, which provide it with an up-to-the-minute, in-depth understanding of the current situation, and enable it to act to preserve Sharjahs image as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World and a leading regional hub for business, tourism and culture.

We are very aware of our role and responsibilities in fostering awareness in the global tourism market of the uniqueness of Sharjah tourism product, and of enhancing Sharjahs presence at the regional and international levels. This requires a high level of transparency and an ability to face challenges head-on in order to achieve the planned outcomes. Our studies and analyses of the current situation have enabled us to map out a way forward, and to set in place strategies that perfectly fit our objective of developing the emirates business and tourism sectors. We hope that all involved in these efforts will continue to participate with the same level of dedication we have become so used to over the years.

In 2009 the SCTDA successfully launched our new promotional strategies and participated in a number of high profile international events, which played a significant role in further enhancing Sharjahs position on the worlds tourism map. The Authority also undertook a number of important projects which contributed to improving the performance of the sector, he added.

Al Qassimi also touched briefly on the key milestones achieved by the SCTDA in 2009: We are proud of the position Sharjah occupies on the worlds tourism map. The SCTDA has become a regular award winner at both local and international events, and has also hosted world-class entertainment and family-oriented events. Through our implementation of large-scale international promotional activities, we have been able to expand our global reach, and sign a number of international agreements that will help further develop the emirates tourism sector.

The Chairman concluded by extending heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Their Excellencies the Members of SCTDAs Board of Directors for their continued support, and to all SCTDA employees for their dedicated efforts to achieving the Authoritys objectives of enhancing Sharjahs business and tourism position locally, regionally and internationally.

Al Qassimi, along with SCTDA Director General HE Mohamed A. Al Noman also presented awards to various SCTDA employees in recognition of outstanding performance and their significant contribution to the Authoritys success in 2009.