Sharjah, 21st of January 2012 - Etisalat Eye of the Emirates, one of the top landmarks in the Emirate of Sharjah, was reportedly in huge demand amongst visitors to Al Qasba throughout the year, with a total of 100887 visitors having enjoyed the tremendous views on offer from the top of the wheel between January and December 2011.

Ahmed Al Qaseer Chief Operating Officer of the Al Qasba Development Authority, said: "The number of visitors to Etisalat Eye of the Emirates ferries wheel in 2011 has increased by 11% in one year according to statistics. There has been growth in the number of visitors from the GCC countries, European Union and Russia. However the largest portion of visitors was from the UAE, citizens and residents".

"The Etisalat Eye of the Emirates ferries wheel is one of the biggest attractions in the Emirate of Sharjah and in the UAE. Its prime location has resulted in an increasing demand from tourists, who come from all over the world to enjoy spectacular views of the city's landmarks and the surrounding landscape from the wheel's air-conditioned cabins," he said.

"Part of this upswing in demand can be attributed to the Al Qasba Development Authority's promotion of the ferries wheel at a number of local and international events over the past few years. The Authority will continue to launch a number of promotional offers designed to attract local and international visitors, and aim to maintain its position as one of the region's most important tourist landmarks," Al Qaseer added.

Al Qaseer clarified that Al Qasba's integrated family friendly attractions and diverse facilities that combine entertainment with culture, art and business have significantly contributed to an increasing demand to experience the Etisalat Eye of the Emirates.

The Etisalat Eye of the Emirates is one of the most prominent landmarks in the emirate of Sharjah; this 60-metre high wheel gives visitors a chance to view Sharjah, as well as parts of Dubai and Ajman, from its 42 air-conditioned cabins.

Al Qasba is Sharjah's premier tourist, leisure and cultural destination, and was recently ranked 8th amongst the top 10 most authentic Arab brands. In addition to the Etisalat Eye of the Emirates, Al Qasbam which is spread over 10,000 hectares, 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, Etisalat Eye of the Emirates ferries wheel, Maraya Art Centre amongst many more attractions.

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