Ajman and Umm Al Quwain sign deal to promote tourism projects

Sohaila Ahmed,Staff Reporter

Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) and Umm Al Quwain Tourism and Archaeology Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently. The aim of the MoU is to support both departments’ strategic directions and encourage the exchange of experiences; the departments will also cooperate in terms of tourism research by developing special programs and identifying projects and operational agreements in order to unify their efforts.

The MoU was signed by Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, ATDD Chairman, and Sheikh Majid Bin Saud Bin Rashid Al Mualla, Chairman of Umm Al Quwain Tourism and Archaeology Department, in the presence of Dr Saeed Al Matrooshi, Secretary General of Ajman Executive Council, and Humaid Rashid Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the Executive Council of Umm Al Quwain, and  Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, ATDD Director General, Alia Mohammed Al Ghafli, Director General of Umm Al Quwain Tourism and Archaeology Department, and Mirah Al Mehrazi, Director of Umm Al Quwain Tourism and Archaeology Department, and Hamda Al Matrooshi, Director of Strategy and performance development office at ATDD, and a number of directors, senior officials and heads of department.

The agreement aims to promote coordination on tourism projects and initiatives in the interest of exchanging experiences and applying best practices. It also aims to promote cooperation in terms of joint tourism research by taking advantage of each department’s capabilities in terms of human resources, technical skills and equipment, and practical expertise in order to promote growth and progress for the tourism sectors in both emirates and in the UAE.

Sheikh Abdul Aziz ATDD Chairman said, “This MoU is an important step towards strengthening the joint resources and capabilities of both departments, especially in terms of promoting tourism growth, developing human resources, and cooperating with regards to studies, research and information. It will also help to promote the tourist attractions in the two emirates as an integrated and distinctive product.” He added, “Umm Al Quwain and Ajman are united in their commitment to sustaining heritage and cultural heritage, in adopting a clear and balanced approach to tourism development, and in the belief that it is necessary to pave the way for the national cadre to contribute effectively to tourism. Our shared experiences, knowledge and resources will create new horizons and a better future for Emiratis and for both tourism destinations.”

Sheikh Majid Chairman of Umm Al Quwain Tourism and Archaeology Department said, “This agreement is in line with the vision that we share with Ajman Tourism Development Department, which includes enhancing constructive cooperation in order to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP as per our leadership’s vision. This agreement will facilitate the implementation of joint projects and initiatives related to developing our human resources. Both departments will benefit by sharing experiences, and this will help to promote tourism activities and programs that support the strategic directions of the Emirates of Ajman and Umm Al Quwain.” He added, “We are confident that this MoU will foster communication between the two departments for the good and prosperity of the UAE.” Under the terms of the MOU, both parties agreed to exchange information and experience in terms of vocational training for tourism employees, to undertake studies and research in areas of mutual interest, and to exchange best practices and successful experiences by sharing information in order to refine knowledge and skills.

A joint working committee will be formed to follow up on the provisions of this MoU. The committee will identify and establish joint programs and a mechanism for implementation. The committee will meet regularly to monitor the implementation of the agreed-upon programs and activities.

Ajman Tourism Development Department’s participation in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai World Trade Centre in May attracted thousands of visitors.

Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) was established upon the Emiri Decree no. 3/2012, issued by His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashed Al-Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman.

ATDD aims to highlight the importance of tourist attractions available in the Emirate of Ajman, and lay down strategic plans for tourism promotion, locally, regionally and internationally, via holding/participating in conferences, exhibitions, and international promotion campaigns. ATDD also works on organizing and developing the tourism industry in the Emirate of Ajman, improving the potentials and services of tourism facilities with the aim of increasing national income.