Sharjah City, the one that lies in the UAE district among various other well known destinations, has a lot to offer to its visitors. Cars, luxuries, beaches, people, food, hotels, clothings, markets – there is diversity in every walk of this city. While most of us are only aware of Dubai and Abu Dhabi among other UAE nations – Sharjah city is also gaining increasing prominence in the world as a form of perfect tourist destination in the list.
Sharjah which lies in the northern side of Dubai is the cultural capital of UAE and is a relevant heritage area. The city is on the creek with well-restored homes and museums devoted especially to Emirati customs. It is also home to Sharjah fort – a 19th century royal residence that has quickly turned the local history around for the Emiratis.
Sharjah is the third largest city in the United Arabs Emirates and is an important portion of the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area. Located along the southern cost of the Persian gulf, the city is filled with scenic sightings and great, rich traditional culture that promises experiences of a lifetime for those visiting for the first time.
The city of Sharjah shares most of the important segments such as the legalities, political relations, military tie-ups and economic functions with most other emirates that function within the established federal framework among the boundaries of UAE.
Filled with traditional Arab culture, the essence of this place typically revolves around the incredible Islamic architecture, music, attire, cuisine and lifestyle.
People Also Ask About Sharjah
-
Travel Advice:
Security and Safety: The best part about Sharjah is that it is considered to be one of the safest destinations in the whole of UAE. In fact, women travelers are given the best kind of security and assurance regarding their safety. At the same time, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Keep an eye on your luggage and your property at all times. Be safe from the bag snatchers as they usually emerge out of the blue.
Tipping: Arab countries do not believe in the culture of tipping. Major restaurants and hotels around the world usually believe in the norm of adding a service charge to the end of the bills for good service. However, it is not at all obligatory to give into this custom at Sharjah.
Transportation: The whole of Sharjah city is well connected. The Airport has plenty of services like restaurants, snack bars, car hire, 24 hour shops and banking centres to fulfill all your basic necessities. However, there is a lack of public transportation. Therefore, avoid relying on that mode in this particular city.
Drinking laws: Keep this in mind – indulging in alcohol consumption is considered to be an offence of the highest order in this Islamic state. The person guilty will be given 100 lashes. Hence, you must avoid associating – even remotely associating yourself with alcohol intoxication. The night-life is fun and relaxed.
-
Things to do in Sharjah City:
Visit Al Qasba – the most popular entertainment spot: Are you the kind who enjoys an art exhibition? Or perhaps the kind that loves to ride on an observation wheel! All you entertainment junkies – this is the paradise on earth for you. Al Qasba, the most popular entertainment destination in Sharjah is among those places that promises its visitors an experience of a lifetime.
Shopping at Central Souk: Central Souk – also known as the Blue Souk consists of two separate floors wherein shopping-lovers will discover a mish-mash of things from all around the world. Right from Kashmiri clothes to Russian silverware and Iranian carpets, these products are worth their price.
Visit the Natural History Museum and Desert Park: Natural History Museum along with the Botanical Museum and the Arabian Wildlife centre has a series of different experiences waiting for the visitors to explore. Explore the history, culture and the wildlife typical to the city of Sharjah by visiting and living through the magnificence of this place.
Stroll through the Sharjah Heritage Area: Get a feel of the Bedouin lifestyle without having to spend a single penny. These region consists of the typical, privy to the true essence of the region houses, buildings and museums that will allow you to get a glimpse into the life led by the city dwellers.
Water sports at Al Majaz Waterfront: Who says the UAE lacks water? Just because it is believed to be a desert doesn’t mean one cannot indulge in water sports activities in the city. Visit the Al Majaz Waterfront to take part in playful activities such as mini gold and splash water sports and eat delicious food at the restaurants and resorts situated in this region.
-
What will you like in Sharjah City:
Trip into the Sharjah Archaeology Museum: Take a trip into the ancient Arab that once existed and prevailed royally in the city of Sharjah. This place consists of pottery, weapons, tools, coins and other artefacts that are surely one visit at least. This will surely leave you in a state of fascination.
Play sports at the Al Montazah Park: Numerous sports activities such as football, cricket and even volleyball can be played in Al Montazah Park. What are you waiting for? This facility is open for all. This is a perfect spot of picnic if you’re traveling with your family or loved ones.
Embrace the historic beauty of Al Hisn Fort: Another one of those restored forts, this was once the palace of the Sharjah’s ruling family. Now converted into a museum, this place reflects historic memories worth of 200 years. Be in awe of the amazing work of architecture and art that this place portrays.
Chill at the Al Corniche beach: The white sandful beaches of Sharjah are surely the kind wherein you will enjoy during weekends. The perfect getaway, one can relax or enjoy a scenic, soothing walk on an evening without hesitating regarding anything at all.
-
Recommended reads for destination
Government websites:
Others:
Books on Sharjah city: Lonely planet – Sharjah city, Timeless love.
- 12H
Sharjah Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Sharjah
Dive into the roots of Arab and Islamic culture at the massive and beautiful Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Visit this mesmerizing place to learn about the rituals of Islamic people, the artifacts, textiles, and much more.The Museum is of two floors exhibiting various cultural and historical items.On the ground floor, you will find the scientific accomplishments of Islamic people in fields like astronomy and Mathematics and also, the significance of hajj. While on the upper floor you will find galleries that exhibit a timeline of 1400 years old art and artifacts of Islamic culture.Location: Al Sharq Al Nabba- SharjahTiming: Saturday to Thursday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM and on Friday: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Located right at the heart of Sharjah, Al Qasba is the perfect place to relax and spend some quality time with your kids and family. The beautiful place offers various options right from entertainment zones, some fine dining restaurants to the Kids Fun Zone.You can enjoy numerous activities here such as theatres, Abra rides, the musical fountain, Kids Fun Zone, and also the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates Ferris Wheel from where you can enjoy the beautiful scenic view. While exploring and enjoying this beautiful place you will feel very close to the Arabian culture as there are so many restaurants and retail outlets available in this place.Location: Al Khan Al Qasba - Sharjah ( Al Majaz area)Timing: In Summer: 4 PM - 12 AM and In Winter: 10 AM - 12 AM
One of the most beautiful places in Sharjah is the Sharjah Aquarium where you can visit with your family and enjoy a wide range of marine life. While exploring this engaging unseen deep sea world, you will also be able to have a close look at the local fish species and learn about the history of Sharjah’s coasts and ports.There are more than 100 different species in this beautiful aquarium that you can enjoy watching like the mesmerizing clownfish, airy seahorses, sea rays, and even reef sharks.Location: Al Khan - SharjahTiming: Saturday to Thursday 8 AM - 8 PM and on Friday 4 PM - 10 PM ( Closed on Sunday)
Located in the heart of Sharjah, the Sharjah Arts Museum is one of the most exciting places to visit in Sharjah as it houses the largest art exhibitions in all of the Gulf region. If you are an art lover, you can enjoy the Arab culture and heritage through magnificent artwork.You can find artworks by different painters from the 18th century who were fascinated by the beauty of Arab culture, architecture, and environment on their visit. As the major focus of the Museum is to portray the art of the Arab world, you will find exhibits of both permanent and temporary artworks.Location: Arts Area, The Heart of Sharjah, Near Corniche Post OfficeTimings: Saturday to Thursday 08:00 am – 08:00 pm and on Friday 04:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Sharjah Art Foundation is one of the best places to see in Sharjah that offers platforms for contemporary artists in the world and gets completely stunned by the variety and beautiful artworks here. The Sharjah Art foundation allows artists from around the globe to showcase their works in the exhibitions held here.You can stroll in this cluster of old and new buildings with your family and enjoy some of the masterpieces by different artists around the world. If interested you can also take part in the programs held for art lovers.Location: Sharjah’s historic Art and Heritage AreasTimings: Saturday to Thursday 09:00 am – 09:00 pm | Friday 04:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Get the best feel of Arabian culture at this massive market in Sharjah. A must-visit place in Sharjah to get some souvenirs or to get the feel of Arabian Bazaar. The Blue Souk will allow you to shop like locals and get heavy discounts if bargained right.There are more than 600 shops in this market which are divided into two sections with one being completely devoted to expensive jewelry while in other you will find all sorts of carpets, textiles, antiques and also electronics.Location: at the shore of the Khalid Lagoon, SharjahTimings: Saturday to Thursday 06:30 am – 10:30 pm | Friday 06:00 am – 11:30 am then 01:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Enjoy your beautiful evening while strolling inside the massive and amazing Al Majaz Waterfront. It is one of the best places to visit in Sharjah as it has various attractions and activity areas which even locals of emirates enjoy.The beautiful musical fountain, play areas for kids, or one of the most eco-friendly jogging tracks in all of UAE that is made from over 6000 recycled tyres. Take the train to enjoy the beauty of the whole waterfront with your family or enjoy different events that are hosted here around the year.Location: Khalid Lake Trail - Sharjah - United Arab Emirates
Spread over a humongous area of around 630000 sq meters, Sharjah Park is one of the major tourist attractions here. One of the most amazing places in Sharjah that need to be on your list as it has various attractive places and amenities to watch out for.One can enjoy and experience the unique architecture as the whole place is designed in such a way that it showcases similarities between two different styles, the traditional Arab architecture and the present-day European styles.Location: E 88, Sharjah, UAETimings: Sunday to Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM Thursday to Saturday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
