Stepping into the vibrant cultural landscape of Sharjah, one might wonder if the culinary celebrations fade with the cooler winter breeze; however, we are pleased to inform you that the emirate continues to tantalize taste buds with an array of food-related events and experiences throughout the year, including exciting offerings this year. While the scale and nature of summer events often shift indoors to beat the heat, Sharjah’s commitment to gastronomic delights remains unwavering, providing numerous opportunities to indulge in local and international flavors. We, the team at www.few.ae, are here to dish out the details on Sharjah’s food scene this year.
Expo Culinaire Sharjah: A Professional Culinary Hub
For those deeply involved in the food service community or simply passionate about the culinary arts, Expo Culinaire Sharjah is a significant event. In 2025, this leading exhibition dedicated to the HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) industry took place from May 21 to May 23 at the Expo Centre Sharjah. While it has concluded for this year, its impact on the local food scene is substantial. This event brought together chefs, bakers, cooks, and students, showcasing a wide range of edibles, drinkables, ingredients, and culinary demonstrations. A major highlight was the Salon Culinaire, which hosted one of the biggest culinary competitions in the Emirates, featuring live cooking demonstrations, intricate ice carvings, decorated buffet platters, and exquisite pastries. It also provided valuable education and training sections for various skill levels, demonstrating Sharjah’s commitment to culinary excellence and professional development in the region.
Sharjah Summer Promotions: Culinary Delights in Malls
As the summer months roll in, Sharjah effectively moves its vibrant activities indoors to escape the heat, and food plays a central role in these experiences. The annual Sharjah Summer Promotions, typically running from July to September, sees shopping malls transform into lively hubs offering not only retail discounts but also a fantastic array of food and beverage options. Imagine walking through the cool corridors of City Centre Sharjah or Sahara Centre, where various restaurants and cafes introduce special summer menus and deals. These promotions often include engaging family entertainment and culinary showcases, with food stalls offering traditional Emirati treats, international delicacies, and kid-friendly snacks. For instance, the Eid Al Adha Exhibition on June 16, 2025, also featured food elements as part of its broader festive offerings, ensuring visitors could enjoy both shopping and delicious food.
The Mango Festival: A Taste of Local Agriculture
A delightful and distinctly local food festival that takes place during the warmer period is the Mango Festival, held in Khorfakkan. In 2025, this vibrant celebration of the region’s rich mango varieties is scheduled from June 27 to June 29 at the Khorfakkan Expo Centre. Organized in collaboration with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), this event highlights the importance of local agriculture and supports farmers in the region. Visitors can taste and purchase a wide array of locally grown mangoes, participate in competitions, and learn about sustainable farming practices through various workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions. It’s a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the bounty of the land and engage directly with the farming community, fostering a deeper connection to the UAE’s agricultural heritage.
Ramadan Festival and “Little Master Chef” Contest
While Ramadan concluded earlier this year, it’s worth noting the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2025, which ran from February 24 to March 31. This extensive festival, celebrated across all of Sharjah’s cities, included significant food-related components. One of its highlights was the “Little Master Chef” contest, held from March 14 to March 16 at 06 Mall. This lively competition encouraged young culinary talents to showcase their skills, emphasizing creativity in cooking. Beyond the contest, the festival featured open-air Ramadan markets and the “Ramadan Nights” exhibition at Expo Centre Sharjah, which opened on March 6. These venues offered a wide selection of traditional Ramadan beverages and dishes, including authentic Emirati delicacies, various dates, and Arabic coffee, creating a rich cultural and culinary experience for attendees.
Year-Round Culinary Experiences: Restaurants and Cafes
Beyond specific festivals, Sharjah’s diverse culinary landscape thrives year-round, with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide array of choices. From high-end dining experiences along the Al Majaz Waterfront to cozy cafes tucked away in the Heart of Sharjah, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Many establishments offer indoor dining with excellent air conditioning, making them perfect retreats during the summer months. You can find everything from traditional Emirati cuisine, offering hearty stews and fragrant rice dishes, to international flavors spanning Asian, European, and American fare. Exploring the local food scene is an ongoing festival in itself, with new eateries constantly emerging and traditional favorites standing the test of time.
Future Food-Related Events: Looking Ahead
While some major food-specific festivals might be concentrated in certain periods, Sharjah’s event calendar, managed by entities like the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) and Expo Centre Sharjah, consistently features events with strong culinary components. For instance, larger general festivals, such as the Sharjah Events Festival, often include dedicated food stalls, live cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to sample local and international cuisines as part of their broader entertainment offerings. As we move towards the end of 2025, it’s always a good idea to check the official Sharjah Events website for announcements of new or recurring food-centric gatherings, pop-up markets, or culinary workshops that might be planned. The commitment to showcasing diverse flavors is a constant in Sharjah.
Local Ingredients and Culinary Culture
Sharjah’s food scene is deeply intertwined with its rich culinary culture and the availability of local ingredients. For instance, the Mango Festival directly supports local agriculture, showcasing varieties grown within the UAE. Emirati cuisine itself is built on fresh, wholesome ingredients, often incorporating dates, camel meat, seafood, and a variety of spices. Understanding these elements adds another layer to appreciating the food festivals and the everyday dining experiences in Sharjah. The government also supports initiatives that promote food security and local produce, which indirectly contributes to the vibrancy and authenticity of food events.
Cost of Dining in Sharjah
The cost of dining in Sharjah can vary significantly depending on the type of establishment. For a casual meal at a local eatery or a food court, you might expect to pay a more modest amount, typically ranging from approximately AED 20 to AED 50 per person. Mid-range restaurants, offering a more extensive menu and comfortable ambiance, could cost roughly AED 70 to AED 150 per person for a full meal. Fine dining experiences, of course, would be considerably higher, potentially starting from AED 200 per person and going upwards. These figures are approximate and can fluctuate based on the specific restaurant, location, and the dishes ordered. Food trucks and market stalls at festivals often provide more budget-friendly options, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes without a significant spend.
Sharjah’s Commitment to Culinary Diversity
Sharjah’s approach to food events reflects its broader cultural strategy: to offer diverse, high-quality experiences that cater to a wide audience while also celebrating its unique heritage. Whether through large-scale trade shows like Expo Culinaire, seasonal promotions in bustling malls, or niche festivals celebrating local produce like the Mango Festival, the emirate ensures that food remains a central part of its vibrant social fabric. This commitment to culinary diversity makes Sharjah an exciting destination for food lovers, promising new flavors and experiences throughout the year.
Your Culinary Journey Awaits
While the peak season for outdoor food festivals in Sharjah often aligns with its cooler winter, the emirate consistently offers a delightful array of food-related events and culinary experiences throughout the year, adapting to the climate with a smart shift to indoor venues. From professional culinary exhibitions to family-friendly dining promotions and unique local produce festivals, Sharjah ensures that there’s always something delicious to discover. So, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to savor new flavors, Sharjah’s culinary landscape is ready to welcome you.
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