Did you know that Sharjah is the only emirate in the UAE with coastlines on both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman? This unique geographical advantage is just one of many reasons why Sharjah deserves your attention. Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbor Dubai, Sharjah offers a more authentic glimpse into Emirati culture while still providing world-class attractions, stunning architecture, and unforgettable experiences.
Getting to Sharjah & Planning Your Journey
Sharjah is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Dubai and has its own international airport. Most travelers arrive via one of these options:
- Fly directly to Sharjah International Airport, served by airlines including Air Arabia, Air India Express, and Egypt Air
- Fly to Dubai International Airport (DXB) and take a taxi or bus to Sharjah (approximately 30 minutes)
- Drive from neighboring emirates like Dubai, Ajman, or Ras Al Khaimah
When planning your journey, remember that Sharjah is a dry emirate (no alcohol) and maintains more conservative dress codes than Dubai. This cultural richness is precisely what makes Sharjah special as the cultural capital of the UAE.
Best Time to Visit Sharjah & Weather Tips
Sharjah experiences a desert climate with extremely hot summers and mild winters. Timing your visit right can make a significant difference in your experience.
Recommended Months to Visit
November to March (Best)
- Pleasant temperatures: 15-28°C (59-82°F)
- Perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing
- Peak tourist season with vibrant events
- Sharjah Light Festival (February)
April and October (Shoulder Season)
- Warming up but still manageable: 20-35°C (68-95°F)
- Fewer tourists and potential deals
- Morning and evening activities recommended
Months to Avoid
Summer months (May to September) are extremely hot and humid with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F). Outdoor activities become challenging, though indoor attractions remain comfortable thanks to excellent air conditioning.
Weather Tip: Even during winter months, the sun can be intense. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat regardless of when you visit. Stay hydrated throughout your trip.
Getting Around Sharjah
Navigating Sharjah is relatively straightforward with several transportation options available:
Taxis
The most convenient option. Sharjah taxis are cream-colored and metered. Flag fall starts at 5 AED ($1.36) with minimum fare of 12 AED ($3.27).
Public Buses
Sharjah operates an extensive bus network. Single journey fares start at 7 AED ($1.90). Routes connect major attractions and neighboring emirates.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
City Sightseeing Sharjah offers 24-hour tickets (85 AED/$23) with 17 stops covering major attractions. Audio guides available in 8 languages.
For maximum flexibility, especially if planning to explore beyond the city center or visit neighboring emirates, consider renting a car. Roads are well-maintained, though traffic can be congested during rush hours.
Where to Stay in Sharjah
Sharjah offers accommodation options for every budget, from luxury resorts to affordable hotels. Here are the best areas to stay:
Top Neighborhoods for Visitors
Al Majaz
Waterfront location with stunning views, close to Al Majaz Waterfront, restaurants, and family attractions. Mid-range to luxury options available.
Al Khan
Beach area with resorts and hotels. Perfect for those wanting to combine city exploration with beach relaxation. Primarily upscale options.
Heart of Sharjah
Historic district with boutique heritage hotels like The Chedi Al Bait. Walking distance to museums, souks, and cultural attractions. Premium pricing.
Accommodation Types and Price Ranges
| Type | Price Range (per night) | Best For |
| Luxury Hotels | 700-2,000 AED ($190-545) | Couples, business travelers, luxury seekers |
| Mid-Range Hotels | 300-700 AED ($82-190) | Families, extended stays, comfort-focused travelers |
| Budget Hotels | 150-300 AED ($41-82) | Solo travelers, budget-conscious visitors |
| Serviced Apartments | 400-1,200 AED ($109-327) | Families, long-term stays, self-catering preference |
Dining & Local Cuisine in Sharjah
Sharjah offers a diverse culinary scene with everything from traditional Emirati cuisine to international favorites. As a dry emirate (no alcohol served), the focus is entirely on food quality and atmosphere.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Machboos – Fragrant rice dish with meat (usually chicken or lamb) and a blend of spices
- Harees – Wheat and meat porridge, especially popular during Ramadan
- Luqaimat – Sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds
- Khameer – Traditional Emirati bread flavored with cardamom and saffron
- Gahwa – Arabic coffee served with dates, a symbol of hospitality
Top Dining Areas
Al Qasba
Waterfront dining with international restaurants and cafes overlooking the canal. Perfect for family dining with views of the Eye of Emirates wheel.
Al Majaz Waterfront
Variety of restaurants with outdoor seating and views of the musical fountain. Options range from casual cafes to upscale dining.
Dining Tip: Many restaurants offer “Tourist Menus” that showcase a variety of local dishes in smaller portions—perfect for sampling multiple Emirati specialties in one meal.
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Sharjah
Sharjah boasts an impressive array of attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and family-friendly entertainment. Here are the must-visit sites:
Cultural & Historical Sites
Al Noor Mosque
This stunning Ottoman-inspired mosque offers guided tours for non-Muslims. Located on Khalid Lagoon, it’s one of the few mosques in the UAE open to visitors of all faiths.
Heart of Sharjah
The historic district features restored traditional houses, museums, and souks. Walk through narrow alleyways to experience old Sharjah and its trading heritage.
Blue Souk (Central Market)
Recognizable by its distinctive blue tile work, this traditional market houses over 600 shops selling gold, carpets, antiques, and traditional artifacts.
Natural Attractions & Parks
Al Noor Island
A peaceful oasis featuring a Butterfly House with over 500 exotic butterflies, sculpture installations, and beautiful gardens. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Al Majaz Waterfront
Recreational area with a musical fountain, mini-golf, children’s play areas, and restaurants. The fountain shows (every 30 minutes after sunset) are spectacular.
Sharjah Desert Park
Home to the Arabian Wildlife Center, Natural History Museum, and Children’s Farm. See endangered Arabian species and learn about desert ecosystems.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Known as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World, Sharjah takes pride in its museums and cultural institutions. The emirate hosts over 20 museums covering art, heritage, science, and maritime history.
Must-Visit Museums
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Housed in a former souk with a magnificent golden dome, this museum displays over 5,000 Islamic artifacts spanning 1,400 years of Islamic history.
Sharjah Art Museum
The largest art museum in the Gulf featuring permanent collections of works by Arab artists and rotating international exhibitions.
Sharjah Heritage Museum
Explore traditional Emirati lifestyle through exhibits on desert life, maritime traditions, and Bedouin culture across six galleries.
Cultural Experiences & Festivals
- Sharjah Light Festival (February) – Spectacular light shows projected onto iconic buildings throughout the emirate
- Sharjah Biennial (March, every two years) – Contemporary art exhibition attracting international artists and curators
- Sharjah International Book Fair (November) – One of the world’s largest book fairs with authors, publishers, and cultural events
- Rain Room Sharjah – Permanent installation where you can walk through falling water without getting wet
- Sharjah Calligraphy Museum – Dedicated to the art of Arabic calligraphy with historical and contemporary works
Map of Cultural Attractions in Sharjah
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond its cultural attractions, Sharjah offers plenty of outdoor adventures and natural experiences. From desert excursions to water sports, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Desert Adventures
- Desert Safari – Experience dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional entertainment at a desert camp
- Mleiha Archaeological Centre – Explore ancient ruins and take guided tours of archaeological sites in the desert
- Al Badayer Desert – Known as “Big Red” for its dramatic red sand dunes, perfect for sandboarding and quad biking
- Stargazing – The clear desert skies offer excellent conditions for astronomy enthusiasts
Water Activities & Beaches
East Coast (Khorfakkan)
Sharjah’s territory on the Gulf of Oman offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. Khorfakkan Beach is a popular spot with water sports facilities and mountain views.
Khalid Lagoon
Try kayaking, jet skiing, or take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride. The Al Qasba canal also offers boat rides with views of the waterfront attractions.
Parks & Recreation
- Al Montazah Parks – Water park and amusement park complex with rides and attractions for all ages
- Sharjah National Park – Sprawling green space with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas
- Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club – 9-hole golf course, shooting range, and other sports facilities
- Al Mamzar Beach Park – Beach park with swimming areas, barbecue spots, and children’s playgrounds
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Sharjah is one of the safest destinations in the Middle East, with very low crime rates. However, it’s important to understand and respect local customs and regulations, which are more conservative than neighboring Dubai.
Dress Code & Behavior
Dress Code
- Modest dress is required in public places
- Men should wear shirts and long pants or knee-length shorts
- Women should cover shoulders and knees, avoid tight or revealing clothing
- At hotel pools and private beaches, standard swimwear is acceptable
Public Behavior
- Public displays of affection should be avoided
- Photography of government buildings, military installations, and local people without permission is prohibited
- During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is not permitted
Important Regulations
Important: Sharjah is a dry emirate. The possession, consumption, and sale of alcohol are strictly prohibited throughout Sharjah, including in hotels and restaurants.
Other key regulations to be aware of:
- Drugs and narcotics are strictly prohibited with severe penalties
- Unmarried couples can now legally share hotel rooms under UAE’s reformed laws
- Swearing and rude gestures in public can result in fines or detention
- Smoking is prohibited in many public places
Practical Travel Tips for Sharjah
Currency & Payment
- The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED)
- Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops
- ATMs are readily available throughout the city
- Keep some cash for taxis, small shops, and markets
Communication
- Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken
- Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, malls, and many public areas
- Local SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in shopping centers
- Country code for UAE is +971
Health & Emergencies
- Tap water is safe but bottled water is widely available
- Healthcare facilities are excellent but can be expensive
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
- Emergency number: 999 for police, 998 for ambulance, 997 for fire
Useful Apps for Visiting Sharjah
- Sharjah Tourism App – Official guide with attraction information and events
- Careem or Uber – For convenient taxi services
- Google Maps – Works well for navigation in Sharjah
- The Entertainer – Offers buy-one-get-one-free deals at restaurants and attractions
- XE Currency – For quick currency conversion
Money-Saving Tip: Consider purchasing the Sharjah Museums Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums. For 50 AED ($13.60), you get access to all Sharjah museums for 7 days.
Experience the Cultural Heart of the UAE
Sharjah offers a unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and family-friendly attractions that make it a compelling destination in its own right. While it may not have the glitz of Dubai, its authentic character, world-class museums, and commitment to preserving Emirati heritage provide travelers with a deeper understanding of the UAE.
Whether you’re exploring ancient archaeological sites, admiring Islamic art, relaxing on beaches with mountain backdrops, or venturing into the desert, Sharjah rewards visitors with memorable experiences and warm hospitality. Its strategic location also makes it an ideal base for exploring other emirates while enjoying more affordable accommodation options.
Ready to discover the cultural heart of the UAE? Start planning your Sharjah adventure today!
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