First glimpse of Sharjah’s Kalba tourism project for industry

In a bid to familiarise the travel and tourism industry with efforts to promote ecotourism on the East Coast and the ambitious eco-tourism project coming up in Kalba, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority organised a field trip for destination management companies and industry representatives alike.

SCTDA chairman HE Mohamed Ali Al Noman said that the project was part of Sharjah’s strategy and efforts to promote the East Coast and sustainable ecotourism projects in the region. “Kalba has a great deal to offer to international tourists–from its mangroves and soft water sports like kayaking and canoeing to Emirati heritage. This needs to be adequately promoted by the tourism industry. Sustainable tourism or ecotourism has been around for nearly 20 years. Yet its potential hasn’t been fully exploited by the industry in the UAE. With this trip, we aim to raise awareness about Kalba and East Coast and increase visitor numbers to contribute to the local economy in a sustainable manner,” said the SCTDA chairman.

As part of the trip, the group visited the site and were briefed on development plan of the ambitious project. They also visited the mangroves and took kayaking session hosted by Absolute Adventures.

By Charmaine Fernz, 29 May 2012, Tuesday 1:48 PM