Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) was established in 1996 with the objective of promoting commercial and tourism activities in the emirate of Sharjah. SCTDA is tasked with developing Sharjah’s commercial and tourism sectors through various events and activities, and promoting the emirate at local, regional and international levels. Working in coordination with other government departments and private sector entities, SCTDA carries out all activities necessary for promoting the emirate’s tourism industry and achieving its goals. SCTDA’s operations include: Planning, laying out strategies, managing general policy, supervising comprehensive and integrated tourism-related programs, and providing all means available for commerce and tourism development through coordination with relevant authorities and departments Promoting the emirate’s tourist and historical attractions through activities and promotions Serving as a comprehensive database for tourism leisure and entertainment activities Promoting Sharjah as a distinct cultural, heritage and family tourist destination Achieving commercial development and improvement of the tourism industry with the aim of attracting foreign investment, increasing tourist flow, increasing the number of hotel establishments and maintaining a high percentage hotel room occupancy across the emirate.