The chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has reiterated its goal of targeting an annual increase in foreign visitors to the emirate. ming to Sharjah. For the past few years we have done admirably well, and this year too our objective remains the same,\" Shaikh Sultan Bin Ahmad Al Qasimi, Chairman, SCTDA, told Gulf News during the formal launch of the fifth annual Sharjah Water Festival here. Last year alone the number of visitors to Sharjah was put at 1.5 million tourists from all over the world and this season the authority is eyeing an even better figure using the festival as a backdrop to attract people. The Sharjah Water Festival is taking place at the picturesque Al Majaz Park and run from December 14-23. Highlight Article continues below With the 12th edition of the UIM F1 World Powerboat Championship as its highlight this weekend [December 15-16], the ten-day event has other activities and entertainment geared toward the entire family. \"While the F1 race has always been a major draw attracting more than 75,000 tourists here, we have a varied offering of activities to entertain the local residents of the country as well. \"This is a world-class event and we set the standard each year and then try to better this during the next one,\" Shaikh Sultan said. The highlight this year will be the renowned \"Circus on Ice\" along with daily magic shows, ice skating and the popular Mouj Adventure Zone among other things. Promotional activities for the Sharjah Water Festival are under way. \"We have also invited international and regional media to come and visit Sharjah during this time of the year so that we create a true image of Sharjah while stressing on its unique features and landmarks,\" said Mohammad Ali Al No\'man, Director-General, SCTDA. The festival is held under the patronage of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah and the support of Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.