The Emirate of Sharjah had attracted 1. 563 million tourists during 2011, according to the annual statistical report released by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) at the sideline of International Tourism Bourse (ITB Berlin), the World’s leading Travel Trade Show.

The report shows that the occupancy rate of the hotels and hotel apartments in the emirate had reached 74 per cent in 2011 against 73 per cent in 2010.

Mohammed Ali Al Noman, Chairman of the SCTDA said the statistical reports reflect the strength of Sharjah tourism sector, adding that the SCTDA is keen on the latest tourism developments to keep pace with the latest and sustain the growth levels as well.