The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering professionals in the tourism sector by launching the Hadaf Initiative, which offers rewards and incentives to SCTDA-licensed tour guides.
This initiative, which is part of SCTDA’s plan to support national talent interested in a career in Sharjah’s tourism sector, also opens more opportunities for those interested in obtaining a tourist guide licence.
The Hadaf initiative is being launched in conjunction with World Tourism Day, which falls on September 27.
The program comprises three main strategies. The first being the hosting of virtual workshops centred around training tour guides to develop relevant skills, keeping pace with the latest global trends within the sector.
The second is for SCTDA-licenced tour guides to receive incentives in appreciation of their efforts in serving the tourism sector and Sharjah visitors. As part of the incentives, tour guides will receive the Hadaf e-card, which provides special discounts and packages.
As for the third one, the authority will have observers and experts participate in the tours and evaluate the performance of the guides during their interaction with tourists.
SCTDA Chairman Khalid Jasim Al Midfa said: “The Hadaf initiative, which will initiate the virtual workshops, field inspection tours, and the Hadaf reward card, is part of our commitment to support and reward licensed tour guides and encourage young talent in the tourism sector.
“In keeping with the developments in the emirate, we are launching Hadaf along with other initiatives to train talented individuals in order to support the sustainability of the tourism industry.”
