Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) announced its new smart services, most notably the ‘mClass’ smart hotel classification and the ‘Sharjah’ Mobile App in seven languages, to enhance the tourism experience in Sharjah as it began its active participation at the 35^th edition of GITEX Technology Week 2015 in Dubai from October 18 to 22, 2015.

Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, described GITEX as an ideal platform for government entities to inform the public about their latest smart services aligned to UAE Smart Government goals to save people’s time and effort and contribute to sustainable development process.

H.E. Al Midfa said the smart services provided by the Authority come under the Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021 which has adopted an innovative approach to tourism as a key pillar of the Vision. “Based on this pillar, SCTDA has offered smart services and solutions for the tourism sector in the emirate, and comprehensive information and facilities to visitors to make their visit a memorable experience,” H.E. Al Midfa added.

The Authority announced on the first day of GITEX Technology Week its ‘mClass’ smart hotel classification application, marking a qualitative leap in the classification of its 105 hospitality facilities. The new smart application, which will be available for download on mobile phones, enhances interaction with hotels and evaluates their performance based on guest reviews.

On the occasion, SCTDA will launch its ‘Sharjah’ Mobile App which will be available in seven languages. It will also offer its ‘Sharjah Perfect Days’ app in seven languages to enable tourists to smart plan their Sharjah visit.

SCTDA showcased its existing smart applications, notably ‘Sharjah My Destination’ tourism portal that is currently available in seven languages. The portal provides comprehensive information to visitors and investors about the emirate of Sharjah and its major tourist locations. It also provides details about the major events and activities organised across the year in the emirate as well as its most important shopping destinations. The portal contains the latest facts and figures about the tourism sector in the emirate and facilities offered to investors.

SCTDA also highlighted at GITEX Technology Week its Interactive Touchscreens offered at hotel facilities in the emirate. The touchscreens provide visitors detailed information in seven languages about Sharjah’s diverse tourism products as well as its cultural centres, geographical details and universities and restaurants.

As many as 2600 companies from 62 countries are taking part in GITEX Technology Week this year.