SHARJAH — More than 100,000 people visited the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates, one of the most prominent landmarks in Sharjah and the highest Ferris wheel in the region, in 2012, according to Sultan Mohammed Shattaf, manager of Al Qasba. Last year saw a turnout of 115,000 visitors, compared to 100,887 visitors in 2011, Shattaf reported. Since being launched in 2005, the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates has become an increasingly popular choice and a favorite destination for a lot of visitors and tourists, and now stands as one of the major attractions in Al Qasba – home to various local and international events and activities throughout the year. The 60-meter-high wheel gives visitors a chance to view Sharjah, as well as parts of Dubai, from its 42 air-conditioned cabins. Sultan Shattaf said:“Last year we focused on organizing a diverse range of carefully studied events, in order to offer our visitors the maximum enjoyment during their visits to Al Qasba. Not only can they experience unparalleled aerial views of Sharjah from the comfort of the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates, but they can also visit the kids' play areas, which have proven highly popular among families, as well as Al Qasba's many other world-class facilities, such as restaurants, cafes, Maraya Art centre, and Masrah Al Qasba.” He pointed out that the large turnout of visitors to the Ferris wheel serves as concrete proof that Al Qasba is moving in the right direction. Shattaf lauded the efforts made by the staff at the wheel and Al Qasba, referring to their strong sense of teamwork and cooperation, which has made it possible to select a diverse range of events that suit all tastes and ages, as well as to achieve a balance between entertainment and education. Al Qasba manager went on to say that “From the very first day it opened to the public, the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates became an Al Qasba icon, firmly consolidating Sharjah a premier tourism destination. The impressive footfall of visitors to the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates can be attributed to its reputed status, as well as its design which caters to all ages and different tastes. It stands out as a tourist icon and major attraction unlike any other in the UAE or the region. We are looking forward to welcoming even higher numbers of visitors this year and will undoubtedly be celebrating the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates' great success at its annual anniversary celebrations, held in April of each year, with an exciting line up of activities and events.” “Officials in charge of Al Qasba managed to make Al Qasba, including the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates, one of the most prominent attractions on Sharjah's tourism map, hence the huge turnout of tourists to the place is a strong proof of its success-a fact that is clearly manifested in the growing increase of visitors since it was opened until now,” he added. Al Qasba, Sharjah's premier tourist, leisure, and cultural destination, was recently ranked 8th among the top 10 most authentic Arab brands. Spreading over 10,000 hectares, Al Qasba boasts a range of state-of-the-art facilities and tourism attractions, including the 300-capacity Al Qasba Theatre, which host Arabic and international films and plays, the Kids Fun Zone, a musical fountain, the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel, and the Maraya Art Centre, among many other attractions. — SG
