Al Qasba Development Authority Announces 7.9% Revenue Growth In 2010 Over 2009

Restaurants and cafés welcome over 500,000 visitors and see 9.1 % rise in sales

Al Qasba Development Authority recently concluded its annual meeting, focusing on transforming Al Qasba into a full-fledged business destination in Sharjah. The meeting outlined the steps necessary to build on a successful 2010. Looking ahead, the culture, entertainment, and tourist destination aims to raise the bar of excellence by offering unrivalled business services and facilities.

Al Qasba’s successful cultural, entertainment, and artistic events schedule through 2010 offered the broad parameters for enhancing its role as a premium business destination. A key indicator of last year’s success was the growth of revenue resulting from the leasing of outlets and kiosks, which grew a remarkable 70.9% increase over 2009. Restaurants and cafés welcomed over 500,000 visitors in 2010, marking an increase of 28,000 visitors compared to 2009, and a 5.92% growth. Overall sales also grew 9.1% over 2009.

During the meeting, Ahmed Al Qasser, Director of Property Management at Al Qasba Development Authority reviewed figures recorded during 2010, which revealed substantial increases in visitor numbers, with the tally surpassing the 1 million mark. While most visitors came from within the UAE, a notable increase was recorded in the number of visitors from neighboring countries - mainly Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman, as well as tourists from European countries

The Holy Month of Ramadan alone drove sales up by 50%, welcoming more than 20,000 visitors who attended the Islamic lectures at the Eman Oasis tent. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates attracted more than 90,000 visitors who came to enjoy the ride and experience the beautiful skyline of Sharjah.

Hazem Al Sawaf, Director of Marketing and Sales at Al Qasba Development Authority underlined efforts by Al Qasba team. “We have witnessed success in every aspect thanks to the synergy Al Qasba creates through events, facilities, and its relentless efforts to excel. We have seen an astounding increase of visitor numbers who played a major role in driving sales up and contributed to the amazing success of our events program,” he said.

“2011 will be unique for businesses. Al Qasba is quickly turning into an alluring business environment, offering state-of-the-art services and facilities through the Al Qasba Business Center and Multaqa,” Al Sawaf added. “Last year was exceptional for restaurants and cafés, particularly if we consider that this sector has faced problems all over the world. The high quality service intrinsic to our many promotions was a key factor in increasing visitor confidence and trust, resulting in an overall increase of visitors from around the world.”

Al Qasba Business Center and Multaqa Al Qasba Meeting and Conference Halls are witnessing a huge increase in demand from businesses thanks to best-in-class corporate services and infrastructure designed to meet a diversity of business needs.

The annual meeting also discussed a number of plans to reinvent cultural activities such as the traditional wooden boat rides and a dedicated fun area for children. The events will complement the Maraya Art Centre, which unveiled its new identity last year to reflect its position as a stage for creative experimentation and a testament to the region’s artistic genius, hosting a panorama of the region’s finest compositions.

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