Things To Do
in Sharjah
Sharjah, the third-largest city in the United Arab Emirates, is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful Islamic architecture. It serves as a center for arts and culture in the UAE, hosting numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural events, earning it the UNESCO title of Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998.
Sharjah offers a mix of traditional markets, modern shopping centers, lush parks, and scenic waterfronts, making it a diverse and family-friendly destination.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Al Noor Island, where you can enjoy the lush gardens and art installations. Don't miss the butterfly house for a serene experience.
Enjoy lunch at one of the cafés on the island and then take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Capture stunning views of the Al Noor Mosque.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby Corniche for a relaxing walk by the sea. The illuminated skyline provides a perfect backdrop for evening photos.
Begin your morning at the Sharjah Heritage Area, exploring the traditional architecture and museums. Visit the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization to learn about the region's history.
Savor a traditional lunch at a local restaurant followed by a visit to the Sharjah Art Museum. Enjoy the contemporary and classical art exhibitions on display.
End the day at Sharjah Souk Al Arsah, where you can shop for handicrafts and spices. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous museums and heritage sites.
- Relatively affordable cost of living compared to other emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Family-friendly environment with plenty of parks, recreational areas, and educational institutions.
- Strong emphasis on arts and culture, hosting events like the Sharjah Biennial and the Sharjah International Book Fair.
- Strategic location with easy access to Dubai and other emirates, making it convenient for commuting.
- Less cosmopolitan compared to Dubai, which may limit some expat experiences.
- Harsh climate with extremely hot summers, making outdoor activities challenging.
- Restrictions on entertainment and nightlife compared to more liberal emirates.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities, leading to reliance on personal vehicles.
Best Activities in Sharjah
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit Al Noor Island to explore its beautiful gardens, contemporary art installations, and butterfly house.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront at Al Qasba, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and a fun-packed playground.
Discover the natural beauty and wildlife of the desert at Sharjah Desert Park, which includes a natural history museum, botanical garden, and a children’s farm.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sharjah with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sharjah
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful island park with stunning landscape, art installations, and great photo spots.
A vibrant cultural and entertainment destination with a picturesque canal and the Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel providing great photo opportunities.
A scenic waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, perfect for capturing sunsets and city skyline.
Food in Sharjah
Sharjah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Emirati dish made of meat (usually chicken or lamb), rice, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon. It is often garnished with fried onions and nuts. Found at local restaurants like Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe.
Must-Try!
A comforting dish made of wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency. The dish is traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan and other special occasions. Can be savored at local eateries such as Bait Al Khetyar.
These are sweet dumplings popular as a dessert. The crispy fried dough balls are drizzled with date syrup or honey, offering a delightful blend of crunchy and sweet flavors. Available at Al Qaseer, among other local sweet shops.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sharjah better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling food market offering a wide variety of local delicacies and street food. Visitors can indulge in an assortment of traditional snacks, including samosas, kebabs, falafel, and more.
This vibrant market is a treasure trove of street food delights. From freshly grilled meats to aromatic spices and marinated olives, it's a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to dress modestly in Sharjah, especially when visiting public places or interacting with locals. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing.
Public displays of affection should be avoided, as they are not considered appropriate. Additionally, it's important to respect local customs and traditions, such as greeting others with the traditional Arab greeting 'As-salamu alaykum'.
Since Sharjah is a conservative city, it's important to show respect for Islamic customs and practices. Visitors should refrain from consuming food or drinks in public during the fasting month of Ramadan, and be mindful of the significance of mosques and other religious sites.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sharjah with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sharjah
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sharjah, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. Restaurants and hotels often include a service charge (usually 10%) on the bill, so additional tipping is at the customer's discretion.
Cash is widely accepted in Sharjah, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in large establishments. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals, and mobile payment options are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sharjah.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sharjah as the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C with little to no rainfall.
Spring in Sharjah brings warm weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It's a good time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor attractions before the summer heat sets in.
Summers in Sharjah are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. It's recommended to stay indoors and take advantage of air-conditioned facilities during this time.
Autumn offers pleasant weather in Sharjah, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. It's an excellent time to engage in outdoor activities and enjoy the city's attractions before the onset of winter.
Sharjah at Night
Hiking in Sharjah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination located about 3 hours from Sharjah, Wadi Shab offers stunning canyon views, clear waters, and beautiful natural pools to swim in.
This mountain range is accessible from Sharjah and provides various trails for hiking, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Located a short drive from Sharjah, Al Qudra Lakes features walking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the desert scenery.
The highest peak in the UAE, Jebel Jais offers several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, along with stunning panoramic views.
Offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking through the Hajar Mountains, with trails that lead to geological formations and ancient archaeological sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sharjah through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sharjah by plane.
The primary airport serving Dubai and one of the busiest international airports in the world, located approximately 15 km from Sharjah.
The main airport serving the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, situated about 160 km from Sharjah.
A key airport located in Dubai World Central, approximately 30 km from Sharjah, designed to handle both passenger and cargo traffic.
Located in Bahrain, about 700 km from Sharjah, it is an international airport that serves as a hub for various airlines in the region.
The main international airport serving Muscat, Oman, located around 450 km from Sharjah.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Sharjah, consisting primarily of South Asians, Egyptians, and other Arabs, as well as Westerners.
Citizens of the UAE, comprising a significant but smaller percentage of the population compared to expatriates.
Includes both Emirati nationals and expatriates from Arab countries, contributing to the Arabic cultural and linguistic presence.
A major segment of the expatriate population, particularly from countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
A smaller demographic group primarily consisting of professionals and families from Europe, North America, and Australia.
Includes expatriates from various African nations, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of Sharjah.
The Soul of Sharjah
Discover the essence of Sharjah through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Sharjah, with numerous matches held in the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, which has hosted many international fixtures, including ODI and T20 matches.
Football enjoys a significant following in Sharjah, with local clubs competing in the UAE Pro League and various grassroots initiatives to promote the sport among youth.
Basketball is a popular sport in Sharjah, with many schools and clubs offering opportunities for young athletes to engage in the sport and compete at various levels.
Camel racing is a traditional sport in the UAE, including Sharjah, featuring specially bred racing camels and is part of the cultural heritage of the region.
While not a sport in the traditional sense, falconry is a significant cultural activity in Sharjah, showcasing the skill and artistry involved in training and flying these magnificent birds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sharjah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Emirati cuisine traditionally revolves around meat, many restaurants in Sharjah offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like falafel, hummus, fattoush, and muhammara for delightful plant-based choices.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can explore gluten-free options such as grilled meats, rice-based dishes, and fresh salads available at various restaurants and cafes in Sharjah.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sharjah with these cultural adventures.
