Have you ever considered that the true spirit of the United Arab Emirates might not lie solely beneath the dazzling skyscrapers of Dubai, but rather within the culturally rich, captivating, and historically layered streets of Sharjah, a city that offers an incredible journey into the heart of authentic Arabian heritage and art, creating a unique and deeply rewarding experience for every type of traveler who decides to explore its depths?
Discovering the Soul of the Emirate: Heart of Sharjah
To truly grasp the essence of this emirate, your journey absolutely must begin in the Heart of Sharjah area, which is the Gulf’s most ambitious historical preservation project, a painstaking restoration that successfully recreates the city’s charming atmosphere from the 1950s. This district is not merely a collection of old buildings; it is a living, breathing museum where every narrow alleyway and every restored coral stone house whispers tales of pearl divers, traditional souks, and ancient family life, which provides an unparalleled insight into the UAE’s foundational history. Here, you can wander through the Sharjah Heritage Museum and the fascinating Bait Al Naboodah, the lovingly restored home of a successful pearl merchant, offering a genuine glimpse into the domestic life of a wealthy Emirati family from decades past. Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic Souq Al Arsah, a covered traditional market that is one of the oldest in the country, where bartering for spices, antiques, and local handicrafts is still very much a celebrated daily ritual and part of the local charm.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: A Global Showcase
A cornerstone of Sharjah’s reputation as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World is the magnificent Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, housed within a stunning building that was once a traditional souq, featuring an exquisite central dome covered with a beautiful mosaic detailing the night sky and the zodiac constellations. This world-class museum successfully bridges the gap between science and faith, offering visitors a profound understanding of the immense contributions that Islamic scholars, scientists, and artists have made to global civilization over centuries of history. Be sure to seek out the incredible Ibn Al-Haytham Gallery of Science and Technology, which is filled with sophisticated three-dimensional models and interactive displays showcasing innovations in fields like astronomy and medicine. Another must-see is the Abu Bakr Gallery of Islamic Faith, where you can view rare artifacts, including monumental sections of the Kiswah, the richly embroidered cloth that traditionally covers the Ka’aba in Makkah, which is a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold.
The Waterfront Charm of Al Qasba
For a more contemporary, yet still culturally refined, experience, head over to the vibrant Al Qasba waterfront district, a fantastic leisure destination built around a picturesque canal that successfully connects Khalid Lagoon with Al Khan Lagoon. This area truly comes alive in the evening, with its beautifully illuminated buildings and the charming atmosphere creating a perfect setting for a relaxed evening stroll or a delicious meal. One of the most popular activities is taking a traditional boat tour along the canal, providing a wonderful perspective of the area’s architecture and the surrounding cityscape, which makes for excellent photographs. While the famous Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel has moved elsewhere, Al Qasba still offers plenty of engaging entertainment options, including a dedicated fun zone for children and a wide variety of cafes and restaurants that cater to every possible taste.
Unearthing Ancient History at Mleiha
If you are a history buff or an adventure seeker, you simply must allocate a day to explore the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, located roughly outside the main city, offering a captivating journey back to the Stone Age and the Bronze Age, long before the modern UAE was ever conceived. Mleiha is an internationally significant site, with archaeological digs uncovering burial chambers and artifacts that date back over $125,000$ years, establishing the region as a crucial gateway for human migration out of Africa. Visitors can embark on guided tours to see ancient burial sites, including the impressive Umm an-Nar tomb, or explore the surreal landscapes of Fossil Rock, a mountain peak dotted with marine fossils, hinting at a time when the desert was once submerged beneath the sea. The centre also offers thrilling adventure activities perfectly suited to the cooler months, such as dune buggy adventures, horseback riding, and even overnight camping experiences beneath the dazzling desert sky.
Exploring the Arabian Gulf’s Underwater World
For families and marine life enthusiasts, the Sharjah Aquarium offers a mesmerizing and educational glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Arabian Gulf’s underwater ecosystems, which are teeming with life. As the first and largest government educational center of its kind in the UAE, the aquarium focuses on educating the public about the importance of protecting the local marine environment, covering an area of $6,500$ square meters. Inside, you can wander through twenty large aquariums, holding approximately $1.8$ million liters of water and showcasing over $150$ different marine species, including stunning coral reef fish, graceful sea rays, elusive moray eels, and beautiful reef sharks. A single admission ticket to the aquarium also conveniently includes entry to the nearby Sharjah Maritime Museum, which further deepens your appreciation for the emirate’s rich maritime history, its traditional dhows, and its long-standing reliance on the sea.
The Blue Souq: A Shopper’s Delight
No trip to Sharjah is complete without a visit to the iconic Central Souq, universally known by its more common name, the Blue Souq, due to its distinctive and beautiful blue-tiled exterior and classic Islamic architectural design. This striking market is comprised of two long, identical wings that are connected by an attractive pedestrian bridge over the lagoon, housing over $600$ different shops, making it a true Arabian bazaar experience for visitors. The ground floor is often devoted to more upscale items like elaborate gold jewelry, which the UAE is globally famous for, while the upper floors contain an enchanting mix of traditional goods, including exquisite oriental carpets, fine Persian rugs, fragrant Arabian perfumes (attar), and a huge selection of locally made handicrafts and souvenirs. Remember that bargaining is fully expected and is a fundamental part of the fun in the souk, so definitely put your negotiating skills to the test to secure a better deal. The souq is generally open from approximately and then reopens from , allowing you to visit in the cooler evening hours.
Local Knowledge on Money and Cost of Living
It is always helpful to have a local perspective on the economic landscape before you plan your trip. While you are generally not looking to relocate, knowing that Sharjah offers a more affordable lifestyle than Dubai can influence your spending habits and expectations during your visit. For instance, the approximate average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center is generally much lower in Sharjah compared to Dubai, often falling at a significantly reduced rate. This lower cost of living is part of what makes Sharjah an attractive place for many people working across the entire UAE. Dining out, especially at local spots, will also often give you more value for your money. Please remember that all of these figures are approximate and can change based on current market trends and specific locations within the emirate.
Recommendations from the editor of www.few.ae
For a deeply local and truly rewarding experience, the editor of www.few.ae highly suggests exploring the East Coast exclave of Sharjah, particularly the beautiful area of Khorfakkan. Here, you can find the majestic Khorfakkan Waterfalls cascading beside a grand Roman-style amphitheater and enjoy the serene beauty of the Al Rafisah Dam, which offers boating facilities with a stunning backdrop of the dramatic Hajar Mountains. This region provides a refreshing contrast to the desert and city landscapes, offering pristine beaches and fantastic opportunities for diving and snorkeling in the clear waters of the Gulf of Oman, all of which are perfectly accessible with a rented car for a memorable day trip.
Respecting the Local Culture and Traditions
Sharjah takes its role as a cultural and conservative emirate very seriously, which is something visitors greatly appreciate for its focus on heritage and tranquility. You will find that local customs are highly respected, and this includes a strict alcohol-free policy throughout the entire emirate, a key difference from its neighbors. Furthermore, public displays of affection are strongly discouraged, and dressing modestly in public is essential, as I mentioned before, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered for both men and women when not at the beach or a private resort pool. Embracing these simple guidelines is not about restriction; it is about showing respect for the local culture and ensuring you have a positive, engaging, and genuinely immersive experience during your travels.
Beyond the City Lights: Nature Escapes
Sharjah’s offerings extend far beyond its museums and souks, reaching deep into the wild and natural landscapes of the UAE, offering unique ecological adventures that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Make sure to visit the Sharjah Desert Park, which includes the Arabia’s Wildlife Centre and the Natural History Museum, providing an incredible opportunity to observe native Arabian wildlife, such as the elusive Arabian Oryx and various gazelles, in a protected and educational environment. Another gem is the Wasit Wetlands Centre, a haven for birdwatching, recognized as a protected area that hosts over species of migrating and resident birds. These natural areas are beautifully maintained and offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city, allowing you to appreciate the subtle, yet resilient, beauty of the Arabian environment.
then "Add to Home Screen"