Al Qasba, the premiere tourist, cultural and entertainment destination in the emirate of Sharjah, is displaying its latest promotions and offerings at the ongoing Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai.

ATM 2010, a major event for travel and tourism trade, will run until May 7 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

In 2009 and the first quarter of 2010, over a million and a half visitors have enjoyed the attractions offered at Al Qasba, with many days seeing over 30,000 unique visitors, said a statement.

When comparing numbers from last year, every month of 2009 so far has seen an increase in the number of visitors, sometimes three or four times as many as 2008.

During the summer, a series of successful promotion campaigns attracted 200,000 more people than the same period last year.  In the first eight months of 2009, there was also an 18 per cent increase in total footfall numbers compared to the same period of 2008.

“Our sixth consecutive participation at ATM is on a large scale with the fact that Al Qasba is showcasing its services under the Sharjah Government stand,” said Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Al Qasba Development Authority.

“We are looking forward to witness an impressive audience turnout and to grab the chance to communicate with a variety of investors and tour operators and discuss the opportunities that we can take advantage of,” he added.

Hazem Al Sawaf, director of sales and marketing at Al Qasba Development Authority, said: “As a destination, Al Qasba is without a doubt one of the most happening places in the UAE.”

“The single most important reason for that expansion has been the engagement of public audiences. Through one-on-one surveys, media monitoring, and participation in international tourism exhibitions, we are constantly looking for up-and-coming business opportunities,” he concluded. – TradeArabia News Service