-
With its blend of history, innovation, and responsible tourism, Sharjah is steadily strengthening its global appeal
-
As India’s outbound travel market continues to grow and mature, the emirate is well placed to deepen its engagement with Indian travellers and sustain its upward tourism trajectory
Sharjah has recorded a robust 38 per cent growth in tourism performance in 2025, reinforcing its position as one of the fastest-growing and most distinctive destinations in the region. The strong performance has been driven by sustained international demand, focused market strategies, and continued investment in infrastructure and sustainable tourism, with India ranking firmly among the emirate’s top five source markets.
The growth builds on a solid foundation laid in 2024, when Sharjah welcomed more than 172,000 visitors from India. In 2025, this momentum translated into higher-value travel, with a notable rise in luxury, experiential, and culturally immersive tourism from Indian travellers. Visitors from major metropolitan centres such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai have shown increasing interest in Sharjah’s authentic, family-friendly, and heritage-rich offerings.
-
Looking ahead to 2026, Sharjah’s tourism outlook remains highly positive. Several new hotels, upgraded attractions, and expanded visitor experiences are planned, with a strong focus on sustainable tourism, luxury hospitality, and adventure travel
-
As global travel preferences evolve, Sharjah aims to offer diverse experiences ranging from heritage exploration and cultural immersion to nature-based and premium leisure travel
According to the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), India has evolved from being a high-volume source market into a strategic contributor of high-value tourism. Indian travellers are spending more time exploring the emirate’s cultural landmarks, nature reserves, luxury resorts, and experiential attractions, aligning closely with Sharjah’s long-term tourism vision.
Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said that India now plays a pivotal role in Sharjah’s tourism success. He noted that Indian visitors bring not only strong numbers but also deeper engagement with the destination, which has been instrumental in driving the emirate’s impressive growth in 2025. He added that India is expected to remain a central pillar of Sharjah’s tourism strategy in the years ahead.
Sharjah’s tourism surge has been supported by targeted investments in infrastructure and accessibility. Projects such as the Kalba Road expansion and upgrades to key transport corridors have enhanced connectivity across the emirate, making travel smoother for both residents and visitors. At the same time, Sharjah has continued to emphasise sustainability and heritage preservation, positioning itself as a destination that balances modern development with cultural authenticity.
