Expo Centre Sharjah, ICDT to strengthen cooperation

The Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS) discussed with the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT) means of developing joint work in the field of economic exhibitions and conferences and enhancing bilateral co-operation to develop trade and investment among the member states of the organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), by tapping into Expo Centre’s great expertise in organizing exhibitions and trade events.

This came during the meeting held on Wednesday at Expo Centre premises between Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah, and Latifa El-Bouabdellawi, Director-General of the Islamic centre for Trade Development of the organisation of Islamic Cooperation (ICDT).

The two sides discussed ways to enhance the participation of the business community in the countries of the Arab and Islamic regions in the exhibitions held in the Emirate of Sharjah and to expand bilateral cooperation in this vital sector.

Saif Mohammed Al-Midfa stated that the meeting aims to exchange views on benefiting from experiences and facilities available to each side, which would help advance the exhibition and conference sector in the Arab and Islamic world and its role in serving Arab states, introducing investment opportunities in the Arab and Islamic world, and opening new markets for the products and industries of OIC member states.

Al Midfa added: “Expo Centre is keen to provide all forms of support and facilities to Arab and Islamic companies wishing to participate in the events organised by the centre, in order to help them enhance their presence in regional markets.

The cooperation with the Expo Centre Sharjah is an added value to the ICDT by providing support to the Member States in organizing exhibitions and trade events in the Emirate of Sharjah, said Latifa El-Bouabdellawi.

This would help promote products and services of the Islamic countries and the Arab member states of OIC and make way for them to penetrate new markets, she added.

ICDT is a subsidiary organ of the OIC entrusted with the mission of promoting trade and investments among the 57 member states of the OIC countries.

Shurooq at WTM London: Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) to share exclusive updates on new developments and showcase lucrative investment opportunities in Sharjah’s tourism sector.

As part of its continuous efforts to promote Sharjah’s investment landscape across its tourism sector and showcase its upcoming projects and new partnerships, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) will be participating in the World Travel Market 2021, to be held as a hybrid event – physical and virtual - in London, from Nov.1 – 3.

Shurooq will seek to make the most of the show’s global reputation to present lucrative investment opportunities in the eco-, heritage and cultural tourism sector to investors looking to expand their portfolios as well as industry professionals and tourists looking for unique experiences. Shurooq will exhibit at the Sharjah Pavillion, led by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), stand ME 150.

The ‘Sharjah Collection’ brand, operated and managed by Mysk by Shaza, will be one of Shurooq’s key highlights at WTM 2021. The brand includes the Mysk Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba; Mysk Al Faya Retreat in the scenic desert landscape of Mleiha, Mysk Al Badayer Retreat in the central region of Sharjah, as well as the newest edition to Shurooq’s portfolio, the family-friendly Mysk Moon Retreat, which is situated in the shadow of the Fossil Rock, amidst the natural dunes of Mleiha.

Shurooq will also reveal details on some of the newly announced tourism and hospitality projects, such as the Al Jabal Resort at the Soueifa Beach in Khorfakkan, as well as the Al Bridi Resort in Al Dhaid, being developed in partnership with the Environment and Protected Areas Authority. A part of the Sharjah Safari project, the largest safari in the world outside Africa, Al Bridi Resort is expected to open by the end of the year.

The authority will also promote Mysk Moon Retreat, the latest destination that offer guests authentic glamping experiences with modern creature comforts. One of the biggest attraction of the Mysk Moon Retreat will be epic stargazing opportunities, thanks to the low levels of light pollution in the vast nature dunes of Mleiha.

Marwan Bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Executive Chairman of Shurooq, said: “The on-ground convening of the physical and virtual WTM 2021, after being held fully virtual last year, is a clear indicator of recovery in the tourism sector with the gradual return of air travel. The UAE is among the first countries to witness an accelerated return to normalcy in the hospitality and tourism sectors.”

Al Sarkal added: “Shurooq is keen on participating in WTM to keep pace with the latest trends in the global tourism markets, especially as the UAE is making great strides in adopting key mechanisms and practices to overcome the repercussions of the global health crisis. Our participation is also in line with the UAE hosting Expo 2020 Dubai which is attracting investments across a wide range of sectors, including tourism, hospitality, retail, entertainment and more. We hope to advance responsible tourism practices and further our sustainable tourism efforts to enhance Sharjah’s appeal as a unique travel destination, in alignment with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.”

World Travel Market London is a leading global travel and tourism event that provides tourism professionals with an opportunity to identify thousands of destinations and brands worldwide. It brings together international speakers, businessmen and industry leaders from all sectors, including well-being, sports travel, technology, and others.