Sharjah Museums Department conducts 'Museum Orientation Tour' for Sharjah hoteliers

Manal Ataya, Director General, SMD, said:

"As the first point of contact for visitors to Sharjah, it is extremely important that hospitality staff members are well-versed on the cultural offering of Sharjah. The orientation tour is therefore a key step in further enhancing awareness of the Emirate's rich museum resources among a wider cross-section of the public and eventually inevitably generating stronger tourist interest."

Encouraged by a general interest in Sharjah's museums and eager to improve their knowledge and professional skills, almost 50 people from various Sharjah hotels joined the orientation tour, which incorporated visits to most of Sharjah's museums.

While early morning hours were spent exploring Sharjah's art and heritage related museums including Al Mahatta, the UAE's only aviation museum, the afternoon had a very cheerful touch with many tour participants getting playful at the children-oriented Sharjah Science Museum and Sharjah Discovery Centre. The tour also included a stop at the Sharjah Aquarium and newly opened Sharjah Maritime Museum in Al Khan area.

Although primarily a museum tour, the programme incorporated a lengthy stop at Al Qasba to familiarize hoteliers with Sharjah's popular destination for dining and entertainment. At Al Qasba, participants enjoyed an abra ride through the waters of Al Khan lagoon as well as spectacular views from the 'Eye of the Emirates', the largest Ferris wheel in the region. After an exciting day experiencing the various museums, the group was treated to a sumptuous dinner at Shababeek, the Lebanese restaurant at Al Qasba.

This Museums Orientation Tour was jointly sponsored by SCTDA and Al Qasba.

The Sharjah Museums Department, established in 2006 by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, aims to promote the emirate's rich legacy of arts, heritage and culture.