Sharjah

DESTINATIONS united arab emirates sharjah

Sharjah

Sharjah, often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour Dubai, is a hidden gem rich in culture and history. Named the Capital of Islamic Culture in 2014, Sharjah boasts a vibrant Heritage Area filled with historic sites and museums. The Emirate's contemporary scene shines through with events like the Sharjah Biennial and attractions such as the acclaimed Rain Room. This blend of the old and new makes Sharjah a unique destination for travellers seeking a deeper cultural experience in the UAE.

The Emirate

The Emirate of Sharjah has received worldwide acclaim as the one that best preserves Emirati culture and traditions, which rings out loudly through the city's Heritage Area packed with sights and museums. The possible downside to such a deep-rooted connection to the past might be the ban on alcohol sale and consumption (allowed for 'alcohol license' holders only, which have to be non-Muslim, locally employed and relatively well-paid). Unlike in other Emirates, drinks cannot be served even at some of the most upscale hotel bars, and modest clothing is required for both men and women. However, Sharjah has managed to embrace modernity while still firmly holding on to its heritage, which makes up for some of its shortcomings on the nightlife front. Unique new cultural centres, such as the Al Noor Island project, are turning Sharjah into an entertainment hub in its own right. The Corniche and waterfront areas come alive after sundown, and the multiple modern shopping centres and traditional souqs offer unlimited shopping opportunities. The Sharjah Emirate is not geographically restricted to the North of Dubai - it reaches the Gulf of Oman on the eastern coast of the UAE via its seaside territories of Dibba Al Hisn, Khor Fakkan and Kalba.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Tradition meets modernity in Sharjah, where museums and architectural monuments compete for visitors' attention with modern high-tech venues such as Al Noor Island. The Sharjah Heritage Area is where most museums and historic sights are concentrated. Sharjah also boasts a few places where one can get close to nature—marine life is best observed at the local Aquarium, and the Arabian Wildlife Centre allows for close contact with and observation of animals native to the area.

Al Majaz Waterfront

Best explored after sundown, the Al Majaz waterfront area draws visitors to its multiple restaurants and cafés which offer front-row seats to the colourful fountain shows that happen several times a night. During the daylight hours, visitors are free to enjoy the public park, recreation areas, mini-golf course and well-equipped children's …

Sharjah Heritage Area

The historic neighbourhoods of Al Sheyoukh and Al Maraija constitute Sharjah's main Heritage Area. They are compact in size, very walkable and contain a number of small museums that make for short educational and entertaining pit stops along the …

Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

With over five thousand exhibits, the Museum of Islamic Civilization offers visitors an extensive overview of Islamic historical and cultural artifacts, while also providing educating insights into the scientific discoveries and achievements of Arabic scholars over the …

Al Noor Island

Sharjah's newest attraction, the artificial Noor Island was opened to the public in 2015. It contains a Butterfly House with over 500 butterflies roaming free under the hall's ornate roof, and a Literature Pavillion, with plenty of quiet reading spots. There is a long walkway running through the island that takes visitors through its …

Al Noor Mosque

The elegant white-stone Al Noor Mosque defines the Corniche, and is, perhaps, Sharjah's most famous (of Sharjah's more than 600). It is a place of religious worship and a sight not to miss both inside and …

Sharjah Heritage Museum

Despite its compact size, the Sharjah Heritage Museum offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the Emirate's history, culture, and traditions—and how those transformed over the past ages. Clothing, musical instruments, coins, pottery, and various other artefacts are on …

Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn)

Formerly the residence of the Al Qawasim ruling family and the seat of Sharjah's local government, the Sharjah Fort today functions as a museum and houses a vast array of exhibits, as well as the old Al Muhalwasa jail, war cannons and defence …

Al-Qasba

Al-Qasba is a vibrant cultural and leisure hub, perfect for an enriching visit. This waterfront neighbourhood features a picturesque canal flanked by beautiful Islamic architecture, housing an array of restaurants, cafés, and bookshops. Visitors can explore the Maraya Art Centre, enjoy performances at the Masrah Theatre, or take a serene boat ride around the …

Arabia's Wildlife Centre

The Arabian Wildlife Centre houses several venues, such as a Children's Farm (where the little ones can feed and ride horses and donkeys), a Botanical Garden and the Wildlife Centre itself. Multiple species of animals are on display, from carnivorous leopards to birds and harmless small …

Sharjah Aquarium

An amazing experience for the whole family, the Sharjah Aquarium ranks among the finest in the UAE, arguably outshining its Dubai competitors. The aquarium contains a variety of marine animals and creatures (including giant stingrays and sharks dashing through the water close enough to touch) separated from viewers by transparent walls …

Classic Cars Museum

The Sharjah Classic Cars Museum is a must-see for old-timer car lovers. With its impressive collection of over 100 cars manufactured in the early years of the 20th century, alongside motorcycles and bikes, with the earliest model dating from …

Dining

Modern Emirati cuisine is quite cosmopolitan and contains elements of a whole variety of Middle Eastern and Asian culinary traditions. Dishes traditionally include a grain (rice is most common) and some variety of meat (often chicken or lamb) or seafood (which is abundant). Alcohol is not served anywhere in Sharjah, so meals are normally followed by hot drinks (spiced coffee or tea) or fruit juices.

Gazebo

Gazebo, a top contender among Sharjah's Indian restaurants, offers an authentic North Indian culinary experience. Renowned for its delicious biryanis, the menu also features a wide variety of beloved classics, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians. To complement your meal, Gazebo serves an array of beverages, including mocktails, shakes, juices, and the traditional …

Fish Corner Restaurant

Fish Corner is Sharjah's premier seafood destination, where diners can personally select their fish from the day's catch and choose their preferred cooking method. Complementary snacks, like plates of olives, are served before meals, adding to the delightful experience. Set by a picturesque canal, the restaurant offers relaxing outdoor tables and stunning views, making …

Bangkok Town

Bangkok Town is a Thai restaurant serving many of the old familiar Thai classics (curries and soups) in a large dining room area fit to accommodate big parties and families. The service is above average, and the food quality to price ratio is one of the best in the …

Cafés

Due to a sizable expat presence in Sharjah, Western-style cafés serving foods like burgers, salads and pizza are not uncommon. There are, however, quite a few traditional establishments that function as evening venues for locals, where coffee, teas, and juices are served instead of alcoholic drinks, and backgammon is played in the outdoor seating areas.

Al Qahwa Al Shaabiyah

Located on the Buheira Corniche, this traditional local café is always busy with customers. Hot drinks, such as mint tea and coffee, are served along with a few traditional snacks and sweets. Seating outdoors is available and provides a nice view over the …

Al Mukhtar Bakery

Operating from early morning until the wee hours, Al Mukhtar is a Lebanese family-owned bakery renowned for its vast array of high-quality, freshly baked goods. The place offers everything from handcrafted breads and Arabic delicacies to exquisite French pastries. The lively atmosphere peaks on weekends when locals flock to this culinary gem, making it …

Ratios Coffee

This hip little coffee shop located on Corniche Street very close to the Heritage Area serves a large variety of drinks, including the now popular matcha lattes and cold brews. Savoury foods and desserts are on the menu as well. Both in- and outdoor seating are …

Bars & Nightlife

One will not find much in the way of bars and clubs in Sharjah, since alcohol sale and consumption is banned in all of the Emirate. Most visitors looking for vibrant nightlife head to neighbouring Dubai, where alcohol regulations are much more lax and party venues are aplenty. Evenings in Sharjah are mostly spent at restaurants or outdoor cafés, enjoying a meal accompanied by freshly squeezed juices. One of the most popular after-sundown spots in the city is the Al Majaz Waterfront, where quite a few establishments located right by the water offer unobstructed views of the daily fountain light show in the lagoon.

Shopping

The unmissable shopping venue in Sharjah is the covered Central Souq, also called 'Blue Souq' for the sky-blue colour of its domes. This souq is Sharjah's largest and busiest and sells a variety of items ranging from local handicrafts and rugs to gold and jewellery. There are, however, quite a few modern malls in and around Sharjah. These sell items at a fixed price, and often house entertainment centres and even amusement parks.