This weekend in Sharjah promises sunny skies and warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural outings. Days reach around 32°C, but mornings and evenings are pleasant with light breezes. Here’s a lively weekend plan full of family fun, art, nature, and cultural charm.
Saturday Morning — “What Is AI?” Workshop at House of Wisdom
Start Saturday with curiosity at the House of Wisdom, Sharjah’s modern library and cultural landmark. The interactive workshop on artificial intelligence invites visitors to explore how AI works and where it appears in daily life. It’s suitable for older kids, teens, and adults. The event begins around 10:00 AM and lasts roughly two hours. Pre-registration is recommended, as seats fill up quickly. Admission is typically free, and parking is easy at the venue near University City. Bring a notebook if you enjoy jotting down ideas, and leave some time afterward to admire the stunning architecture or grab coffee in the library café.
Saturday Afternoon — Contemporary Art at Sharjah Art Foundation
By midday, step into the cool galleries of Sharjah Art Foundation in Al Mureijah Square. Two captivating exhibitions await: Afra Al Dhaheri’s textured works in Restless Circle and Leda Catunda’s colorful mixed-media pieces in I Like to Like What Others Are Liking. Admission is free, and galleries stay open throughout the afternoon. The air-conditioned halls are ideal for escaping the midday heat. Plan about an hour and a half for exploration. Parking nearby is limited; taking a taxi saves time. Afterward, stop for a refreshing drink at Fen Café within the art district before continuing your day.
Saturday Evening — Al Majaz Waterfront & Musical Fountain
Spend Saturday evening at Al Majaz Waterfront, a favorite among Sharjah locals. As sunset approaches around 6:00 PM, grab dinner by Khalid Lagoon and prepare for the dancing musical fountain shows that start at 6:30 PM and run every half hour until 11:30 PM. The illuminated water jets reach 100 meters, synchronized to global and Arabic music. Families can explore the kids’ park, and couples may enjoy an abra boat cruise across the lagoon. Parking fills fast; arriving by 7:00 PM is smart. Each show features different music, so staying for two performances offers a varied experience in a lively, family-friendly setting.
Sunday Morning — Sharjah Safari Park Adventure
Begin Sunday with excitement at Sharjah Safari Park, the world’s largest safari outside Africa. Located in Al Bridi Reserve, about 45 minutes from the city, gates open at 8:30 AM. Bronze tickets (~AED 40 adults) grant entry to walkable zones, while Silver (~AED 120) and Gold (~AED 275) include guided drives through African habitats. Arrive early for the best experience; tickets often sell out by midday. Expect a 2–4 hour adventure spotting giraffes, lions, and zebras. The park is family-friendly, shaded, and offers cafeterias for lunch. Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes are musts for this outdoor journey.
Sunday Afternoon — Rain Room Experience
Cool down in the Rain Room, Sharjah’s most unique art installation. Located in Al Majarrah, this exhibit lets visitors walk through continuous rainfall without getting wet—motion sensors pause the water where you move. Tickets are about AED 25 for adults and free for kids under five. Footwear with good grip is essential, as the floor can be damp. The 15-minute session runs throughout the afternoon with short queues on weekends. Photography is encouraged, and a small café next door makes it a peaceful stop after a busy morning.
Sunday Evening — Football Match at Sharjah Stadium
End the weekend with local spirit at Sharjah Stadium, where Sharjah FC plays Al Bataeh Club at 6:00 PM. Regular tickets cost around AED 20 and are available at the gate. The match lasts until about 7:45 PM and welcomes families, couples, and solo fans alike. Arrive by 5:30 PM to find parking and avoid kickoff traffic. The crowd is lively but friendly, with chants and drums creating an unforgettable experience. Dress casually and bring a light jacket for the breezy evening air.
Alternative Ideas
Breakfast: Arabian Tea House in the Heart of Sharjah serves traditional Emirati breakfasts from 7:00 AM. Try the Emirati Breakfast Tray for about AED 85, ideal for sharing. The courtyard’s blue furniture and calm vibe make it a peaceful start to the day. Weekend mornings get crowded, so arriving early is wise.
Coffee: Paper Fig Café in University City is perfect for a mid-morning coffee. Their Spanish latte and Lotus pancakes are local favorites, costing about AED 25 and AED 30. Peak hours are 4:00–6:00 PM; visit earlier for a calm atmosphere. Parking is limited but available behind the building.
Lunch/Dinner: Shababeek at Al Qasba offers elegant Lebanese dining with canal views. Meals cost around AED 100 per person. The Trio of Hummus and Baked Halloumi are must-tries. The setting is family-friendly and stylish. Reservations are suggested for dinner hours.
Family Water Activity: Al Montazah Pearls Kingdom Water Park on Flag Island welcomes visitors from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Tickets cost AED 180 for adults and AED 150 for children. Arriving before noon helps avoid long lines. Facilities include lifeguards, shaded seating, and food stalls. Swimwear is required for all water rides.
Nature/Sport: Al Rafisah Dam in Khorfakkan offers kayak rentals at AED 40–80. Calm waters make it suitable for beginners. Morning or late afternoon sessions are best to avoid heat. Life jackets are provided, and there’s a café nearby for refreshments. Free parking is available by the lake.
Culture/Art: Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization displays over 5,000 artifacts and scientific instruments. Entry costs AED 10 for adults and AED 5 for children. The museum is air-conditioned and open until 8:00 PM. Fridays open later at 4:00 PM, so plan accordingly.
Cinema: VOX Cinemas, City Centre Sharjah screens new films like “Tron: Ares” and family movies such as “Proud Princess.” Tickets cost around AED 40. Weekend evening shows sell quickly, so book ahead. Showtimes range from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Warnings and Practical Tips
Weather: Expect sunny, dry days around 32°C and evenings near 26°C. Light cotton clothes, hats, and sunscreen are essential for outdoor plans. Carry water to stay hydrated, especially for safari or kayaking trips.
Traffic and Transport: Traffic builds near Al Majaz and Al Qasba on Saturday evenings, and around Sharjah Stadium on Sunday nights. Parking is free in most areas but limited; taxis or ride-hailing apps can save time. Arrive early at popular spots to secure parking.
General Tips: Some venues shorten hours on Fridays, so confirm timings. Book tickets early for water parks, workshops, or cinemas to avoid queues. Prices are approximate and can vary slightly. Keep a bit of cash for small vendors or parking. Book early to avoid missing out and enjoy a memorable weekend exploring Sharjah and its nearby treasures.