Sharjah, often dubbed the "Cultural Capital of the Arab World" by UNESCO, offers a captivating escape from the glitz and glamor of its neighboring emirates. This vibrant city, deeply rooted in its Islamic heritage, provides a rich tapestry of art, history, and family-friendly attractions. For travelers seeking an authentic Emirati experience blended with modern comforts, Sharjah is an unmissable destination.

Why Visit Sharjah?

Sharjah stands out for its unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting Arab and Islamic culture. It's a city teeming with museums, art galleries, and meticulously restored heritage areas that transport you back in time. Beyond its cultural prowess, Sharjah also boasts beautiful coastlines, serene parks, and exciting entertainment options for all ages, offering a more relaxed yet equally enriching experience compared to its bustling counterparts.

Best Time to Visit

The most pleasant time to visit Sharjah is during the cooler months, from November to April. Temperatures during this period range from a comfortable 18°C to 30°C, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions, enjoying the beaches, and wandering through the city's charming souks. The summer months (May to October) are extremely hot and humid, often exceeding 40°C, and are best avoided unless you plan on sticking to indoor activities and air-conditioned environments.

How to Reach

Sharjah is well-connected and easily accessible.

• By Air: Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) is a major regional hub, especially for budget airlines like Air Arabia, offering direct flights to many international destinations. It's conveniently located close to the city center. You can also fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi and take a taxi or inter-emirate bus to Sharjah (Dubai to Sharjah is a short 25-30 minute drive).

• By Road: Sharjah is seamlessly connected by a network of modern highways to all other emirates in the UAE. Public buses operate regularly between Sharjah and Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other cities. Taxis are also readily available for inter-emirate travel.

• By Cruise: While less common than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, some smaller cruises might stop in Sharjah.

Top Things to Do

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Sharjah): While not as large as the one in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah's own Grand Mosque is an impressive architectural feat and a serene place for reflection.

2. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Dive deep into Islamic history, science, art, and culture through a vast collection of artifacts.

3. Heart of Sharjah: Explore the largest historical preservation project in the region, featuring restored traditional houses, souks, and museums like Sharjah Fort and the Heritage Museum.

4. Al Noor Island: A tranquil oasis in Khalid Lagoon, offering a butterfly house, artistic light installations, and a literary pavilion.

5. Al Majaz Waterfront: A vibrant leisure destination with musical fountains, a mini-golf course, playgrounds, and numerous dining options.

6. Sharjah Aquarium: Discover diverse marine life and learn about Sharjah's maritime heritage.

7. Sharjah Art Museum: Home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art by Arab artists.

8. Mleiha Archaeological Centre: Journey back in time to discover ancient human settlements, fascinating archaeological finds, and engage in thrilling desert activities like dune bashing and quad biking.

9. Souk Al Arsah & Central Souk (Blue Souk): Experience traditional Emirati shopping, bargaining for everything from antiques and carpets to gold and spices.

10. Al Montazah Parks: A popular amusement park featuring thrilling rides and a water park (Pearls Kingdom Waterpark).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is Sharjah a "dry" emirate? Yes, Sharjah has strict laws regarding alcohol. The sale, purchase, and consumption of alcohol are prohibited throughout the emirate.

• What is the dress code in Sharjah? As the cultural capital, modesty is highly recommended. Dress conservatively, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered, especially in public places, mosques, and museums.

• Is public transport available? Yes, Sharjah has a public bus network, and taxis are widely available. Ride-hailing apps also operate in the city.

• How many days are enough for Sharjah? A 2-3 day visit allows you to cover the main attractions, while a week would enable a deeper dive into its cultural offerings and surrounding natural beauty.

• Is Sharjah suitable for families? Absolutely! With numerous parks, museums, and entertainment centers, Sharjah is very family-friendly.

Recommended Activities

• Visit the Sharjah Desert Park: Home to the Arabian Wildlife Center, Natural History Museum, and a Children's Farm.

• Explore Khorfakkan: Take a scenic drive to this exclave on the East Coast for beautiful beaches, mountains, and the stunning Khorfakkan Amphitheatre.

• Go on a Mountain Safari: Discover the rugged beauty of the Hajar Mountains surrounding Sharjah.

• Attend the Sharjah Light Festival (seasonal): Witness spectacular light and music shows on iconic buildings.

• Take an Abra Ride: Enjoy a traditional boat ride across Khalid Lagoon for picturesque views.

Where to Shop

Sharjah offers a fascinating mix of traditional souks and modern malls for all your shopping desires.

• Central Souk (Blue Souk): An iconic landmark with its distinctive blue tiles, offering gold, jewelry, carpets, antiques, and souvenirs.

• Souk Al Arsah: The oldest souk in the UAE, a charming, air-conditioned market for traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs.

• Souq Al Jubail: A vibrant market for fresh produce, seafood, and spices, offering an authentic local experience.

• Sahara Centre: A large, modern mall with international fashion brands, electronics, and entertainment options.

• Sharjah Mega Mall: Another popular shopping destination with a variety of retail outlets, dining, and family entertainment.

• Rolla Gold Market: A dedicated market for gold and precious jewelry.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

While the UAE currently has one official UNESCO World Heritage Site (Cultural Sites of Al Ain, located in Abu Dhabi), Sharjah boasts several sites on UNESCO's Tentative List, highlighting its significant cultural and historical importance:

• Sir Bu Nair Island: Proposed for its natural heritage, known for its unique ecosystem and archaeological remains.

• Sharjah: the Gate to Trucial States: This nomination emphasizes Sharjah's historical role as a crucial trading hub and its efforts in preserving its urban heritage, including the old port and various historical buildings.

• Faya's prehistoric cultural landscape: Showcasing early human habitation and adaptation in a desert environment dating back hundreds of thousands of years.

• Pre-Islamic era in southern Arabia known as Mleiha: An important archaeological site that was a significant trade hub from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD.

• Khatum Melaha and Khor Fakkan's rock carvings: Ancient rock art sites found in the Hajar Mountains, offering insights into prehistoric societies.

These sites underscore Sharjah's deep historical roots and its ongoing efforts to preserve its rich past for future generations.