Where to visit heritage sites in Sharjah?

Sharjah, widely celebrated as the cultural capital of the UAE, offers an unparalleled journey into the rich tapestry of Emirati heritage, boasting meticulously preserved sites that narrate centuries of history. We find that exploring these heritage locations provides a truly immersive experience, connecting visitors with the traditions, architecture, and daily life of the region’s past.

Heart of Sharjah: The Resurrected Old Town

The Heart of Sharjah is arguably the emirate’s most ambitious and significant heritage project, aiming to restore and revitalize the historical core of Sharjah. It’s a living museum where you can truly step back in time and experience the authentic soul of the emirate.

• Souq Al Arsa: Wander through one of the oldest souqs in the UAE, Souq Al Arsa, a traditional covered marketplace. Here, you’ll discover quaint shops selling antiques, traditional handicrafts, perfumes, and local souvenirs, echoing the bustling trade of bygone eras. It’s an excellent spot to witness a piece of living history and perhaps find a unique keepsake.
• Souq Al Shinasiyah: Another restored traditional market, Souq Al Shinasiyah, showcases the historical trade routes and the goods that passed through Sharjah. Its architecture and atmosphere provide an authentic glimpse into the emirate’s commercial past.
• Restored Heritage Houses: The Heart of Sharjah is home to several beautifully restored heritage houses, each offering a unique insight into traditional Emirati life.
  • Bait Al Naboodah: This grand, historic house, once home to a prominent pearl merchant, showcases traditional Gulf architecture, including the intricate wind tower (barjeel). It provides an intimate look at the daily life, customs, and family structures of a wealthy Emirati household.
  • Al Eslah School Museum: As Sharjah’s first formal school, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of education in the UAE. Its simple yet functional design and exhibits recreate the learning environment of early 20th-century Sharjah.
  • Sharjah Heritage Museum: Dedicated to preserving and showcasing Emirati heritage, this museum highlights various aspects of local culture, including traditions, customs, folklore, traditional dress, and craftwork. Its interactive displays and authentic artifacts make it a captivating experience for all ages.
• Cultural Activities and Festivals: Throughout the year, the Heart of Sharjah hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and art exhibitions, celebrating Emirati traditions, arts, and contemporary expressions. These events often include traditional performances, storytelling, and craft demonstrations, bringing the heritage district to life.

A leisurely stroll through the pedestrian-friendly alleys of the Heart of Sharjah allows you to absorb the authentic atmosphere. Many of these museums fall under the Sharjah Museums Authority, whose website provides comprehensive details on visiting hours and current exhibitions.

Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-Tourism Project: Unearthing Ancient Civilizations

The Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-Tourism Project, located in the desert interior of Sharjah, is a remarkable site that transports visitors millions of years back in time, revealing the deep historical roots of the region.

• Archaeological Wonders: Mleiha is a UNESCO World Heritage site nominee due to its rich archaeological discoveries spanning the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, and pre-Islamic periods. You can explore ancient tombs, historical forts like the Mleiha Fort, and learn about early human settlements that flourished here. Guided tours take you to significant sites such as the Fossil Rock and Camel Rock, offering breathtaking geological and historical insights.
• Mleiha Archaeological Centre: This state-of-the-art center serves as the gateway to the project, housing numerous artifacts, interactive displays, and informative exhibits that explain the area’s archaeological significance and the various civilizations that once thrived here.
• Desert Eco-Tourism: Beyond history, Mleiha offers a unique blend of heritage and adventure. While not strictly heritage, activities like dune bashing, quad biking, and stargazing allow you to appreciate the vast, ancient desert landscape that has shaped the region’s history for millennia. You can also explore the desert’s unique flora and fauna, connecting with the natural heritage.

Mleiha is best visited during the cooler months to fully enjoy the outdoor exploration. For guided tours and specific heritage site access, we strongly recommend booking through the Visit Sharjah website.

Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn Sharjah): A Historical Bastion

Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn Sharjah) is a meticulously restored fortress that served as the traditional residence of the ruling Al Qasimi family and the seat of the Sharjah government for many years. It is a powerful symbol of the emirate’s rich past and its enduring sovereignty.

• Architectural Significance: The fort showcases traditional Emirati defensive architecture, with its sturdy walls, watchtowers, and internal courtyards. It provides a tangible link to the strategic importance of Sharjah in the region.
• Historical Exhibits: Inside, the fort houses a museum that narrates the history of Sharjah, the reign of the Al Qasimi family, and the fort’s role in defending the emirate. Exhibits feature personal belongings of the ruling family, historical photographs, and weapons, offering a personal glimpse into Sharjah’s past.
• Strategic Location: Its location in the Heart of Sharjah, close to other heritage sites, makes it easy to visit as part of a broader heritage tour.

The Sharjah Fort offers a fascinating insight into the political and social history of the emirate. For visiting hours, check the Sharjah Museums Authority website.

Sharjah Heritage Area: Beyond the Heart of Sharjah

While the Heart of Sharjah is a central focus, the broader Sharjah Heritage Area extends to encompass other significant sites and traditional districts that collectively tell the story of the emirate.

• Souq Al Jubail: Though a modern market, Souq Al Jubail is designed to evoke the traditional souqs and offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can experience the local trade of fresh produce, meat, and fish. It provides a contemporary reflection of historical market traditions.
• Sharjah Calligraphy Museum: Located within the heritage area, this museum celebrates the beautiful art of Arabic calligraphy, a fundamental element of Islamic and Emirati cultural heritage. It showcases the evolution of calligraphy and exquisite examples of this artistic script.
• Wasit Wetland Centre: While primarily an eco-tourism site, the Wasit Wetland Centre (part of the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority) indirectly connects to heritage by preserving natural ecosystems that have always been part of the region’s landscape and traditionally supported local communities. Observing migratory birds here connects you to the ancient routes and nature that influenced early inhabitants.

Exploring these areas gives you a comprehensive understanding of Sharjah’s heritage, from its bustling markets to its artistic expressions and natural environment.

Historical Mosques and Fortifications: Architectural Heritage

Across Sharjah, you can find numerous historical mosques and smaller fortifications that stand as testament to the emirate’s architectural and religious heritage.

• King Faisal Mosque: While a more modern structure, its grand scale and architectural design reflect Islamic architectural traditions and its importance as a place of worship.
• Al Majarrah Mosque: This mosque, located near the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, showcases traditional mosque architecture and its role in community life.
• Watchtowers: Scattered across the emirate, especially in coastal areas and older districts, are various historical watchtowers. These smaller fortifications were crucial for defense and surveillance in past centuries, offering glimpses into the emirate’s strategic history.

Many of these sites can be viewed externally, while some mosques might be open for visitors with respect for religious etiquette.

Sharjah’s dedication to preserving and presenting its heritage is truly commendable. A visit to these sites is not merely sightseeing; it’s an educational and enriching experience that offers a profound appreciation for the UAE’s cultural roots. This guide has been carefully compiled by the www.few.ae team.