Sports tourism potential to reach 17% in the next few years

“According to UN, Sports tourism currently generates around 10% and estimated reach 17% within the next few years,” shared HE Khalid Jassim Al Midfa – Chairman Sharjah Tourism and Development Authority.  “Worldwide, according to the UN, tourism’s contribution to the global economy is projected to increase from 10% to 17% within the next seven years. This highlights the immense potential of sports tourism and its growing importance. Destinations that are prepared and proactive should capitalize on their assets and strategically host more sports events to align with their objectives and drive economic and social benefits. Sports tourism fosters partnerships, generates significant outcomes, and promotes sustainable practices. For example, in Sharjah, hundreds of sports events are held annually, showcasing the sector’s potential as a future growth driver. Sports tourism is not only sustainable and healthy but also beneficial for future generations. It has no apparent downsides and should be a key focus for any destination aiming to move in the right direction.” As the emirate of Sharjah hosts the third edition of ‘Sharjah Week of the Stars’ to take place from 10 -13 January 2025 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council. The third edition returns cementing its place as an annual tradition and a growing platform for sports and cultural celebration organized by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority in collaboration with the International Football Development Association (IFDA), bringing together legendary athletes and a rich lineup of activities that showcase Sharjah’s role as a global hub for culture, tourism, and sports.
The detailed program of ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’ was unveiled during a press conference organised by SCTDA , in the presence of HE Khaled Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, Dr. Yasser Omar Al-Doukhi, Director of the Sports and Community Events Department at the Sharjah Sports Council , Ziad Al Sharabi, General Manager of Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, Massimiliano Suglia, Executive Director at IFDA, Steve Crane, Executive Director of the Federation for International FootGolf and the football legends and stars.
Now in its third year, Sharjah Week of the Stars has established itself as a hallmark event, drawing global attention and participation. Its continued success highlights Sharjah’s commitment to hosting world-class events while promoting its unique cultural and historical identity.
An Unforgettable Program of Events
The 2025 edition promises to be its most exciting yet, featuring:
• Night of the Stars: A thrilling 6vs6 football match with international football legends.
• Sharjah LPL Cup: A showcase of competitive padel among football legends and guests.
• E-Games Tournament: Merging the worlds of sports and technology.
• Footgolf Tournament: A fun and innovative blend of football and golf.
• Cultural Tours and Visits: Immersive experiences showcasing Sharjah’s heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
A Legendary Lineup of Football Stars
This year’s event will welcome some of football’s most iconic players, including:
• Francesco Totti
• Michael Owen
• Rivaldo
• Paolo Maldini
• Essam El-Hadary
• David Trezeguet
• Alejandro ‘Papu’ Gomez
• Christian Panucci, among many others.
Sharjah: A Global Destination for Culture and Sport
Sharjah Week of the Stars not only celebrates athletic excellence but also underscores Sharjah’s growing reputation as a premier destination for global events. By hosting this distinguished event, the emirate showcases its cultural vibrancy, stunning landscapes, and its growing tradition of welcoming international audiences.
Engaging the Global Audience
The event is designed to captivate football fans, travel enthusiasts, and a wide audience, both locally and internationally. Whether attending the live events or exploring Sharjah’s rich cultural tapestry, visitors will experience a unique blend of heritage and modernity.
HE Khaled Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, underscored the emirate’s keenness to organise major sports events to highlight Sharjah’s dynamism and boost its tourism ecosystem by showcasing its cultural landmarks.
He stated, “This is the third edition of the event hosted by the emirate, through which we aim to strengthen the position of sports tourism as a growing sector globally, in alignment with the vision and directives of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.”
He added, “Sharjah places great importance on hosting and organizing globally resonant sports events, as they provide a unique opportunity for visitors to discover the emirate’s distinctive sporting, cultural, and heritage offerings through a variety of activities and events.”