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Sharjah, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, is known as the cultural capital of the country. It boasts a rich heritage, stunning Islamic architecture, and a thriving arts scene. Home to world-class museums, bustling souks, and scenic waterfronts, Sharjah blends tradition with modernity. With its commitment to preserving history and promoting education, it offers a unique glimpse into the UAE’s cultural and intellectual legacy.

Historically a wealthy town and significant pearl fishing port, Sharjah now stands as the cultural capital of the UAE. UNESCO recognised it as the Islamic Culture Capital in 2014 and the World Book Capital in 2019.

Arriving/Departing from Sharjah

Sharjah is served by Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), located approximately 13 kilometres southeast of the city centre. The airport offers both domestic and international flights. Air India Express operates several flights to and from Sharjah, connecting you to various destinations. To commute to and from the airport, you can consider taxis, car rentals, or the Sharjah Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) buses, which offer convenient options for travellers. For domestic flights, it's recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure, while for international flights, aim to be there 3 hours in advance to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.

Best Places to Visit in Sharjah

Sharjah offers a blend of cultural, historical, and modern attractions. Here are five top places to visit:

• Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Explore over 5,000 artefacts showcasing Islamic history, art, and science. The museum, formerly a souk, is located on the Al-Majarrah Waterfront and is known as the first of its kind in the UAE.
• Sharjah Arts Museum: Discover a wide array of art, including works by Arab artists. The museum also hosts regular workshops and exhibitions.
• Al Hisn Fort: Visit this historic fort, once the seat of the Al Qasimi family, and delve into Sharjah's heritage. Al Hisn Fort gives visitors insights into various stages of historical development, ranging from the Stone Age to the rise of Islam.
• Sharjah Heritage Museum: The Sharjah Heritage Museum, located in the Heart of the Sharjah Heritage District, showcases Emirati culture and traditions. Housed in a restored 18th-century pearl merchant's home, it offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
• Central Souq (Blue Souq): The Central Souq is a landmark shopping destination. Shop for gold, clothing, and antiques in this iconic market with Islamic-inspired architecture. The Central Souq is a landmark shopping destination.

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• Al Qasba Canal: This scenic 1-kilometre waterfront promenade in Sharjah features residential apartments, shops, and entertainment attractions. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, boat rides, and dining with picturesque canal views.
• Mleiha Archaeological Site: Located in the Sharjah desert, this site offers a glimpse into early human civilisation, with artefacts dating back 130,000 years. Visitors can explore ancient tombs, rock formations, and archaeological discoveries.
• Sharjah National Park: As the city's largest park, it provides ample green space for picnics, barbecue areas, and recreational activities. Families can enjoy playgrounds, cycling paths, and a serene duck pond.
• House of Wisdom: This state-of-the-art library, designed by Foster and Partners, highlights Sharjah’s status as the UNESCO World Book Capital. It combines modern architecture with extensive reading spaces, digital resources, and cultural exhibitions.

Best Places to Shop in Sharjah

Sharjah offers a diverse shopping experience, from traditional souks to modern malls. Here are some of the top shopping destinations:

• Sharjah Central Souq (Blue Souq): This iconic market is the best place to buy gold jewellery, traditional textiles, and antiques. Its beautiful architecture and rich variety of goods make it a must-visit spot.
• Mega Mall Sharjah: A spacious shopping mall featuring international fashion brands, electronics, and perfumes. Visitors can also enjoy dining and entertainment options, including a cinema and arcade.
• City Centre Sharjah: A popular shopping hub offering a mix of global and local brands, ideal for purchasing clothing, cosmetics, and home essentials. The mall also features a large supermarket and family-friendly entertainment.
• Zero 6 Mall: A stylish and modern mall known for its premium shopping and lifestyle stores, where visitors can buy designer apparel, gourmet chocolates, and high-end beauty products. The mall also has trendy cafes and fitness centres.
• Sahara Centre: One of Sharjah’s largest malls, offering a mix of luxury and affordable brands. The mall also has a large food court and an indoor amusement park.

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• Rolla Area: This bustling commercial and residential district is known for its affordable shopping options, street vendors, and local markets. It’s a great place to find budget-friendly clothing, accessories, and household items.
• Souk Al Arsa: One of the oldest markets in Sharjah, this traditional souk offers antiques, handmade crafts, and cultural souvenirs. Located in the Heart of Sharjah, it provides a glimpse into the region’s trading history.
• Gold Center: A dedicated shopping centre specialising in gold and fine jewellery. It is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and variety when it comes to shopping for gold ornaments, diamonds, and precious stones.
• Sharjah Shopping Centre: This centrally located mall features a diverse range of shops selling clothing, electronics, and household essentials. It’s a convenient destination for everyday shopping needs.
• Safeer Mall: A family-friendly shopping centre offering retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it provides a local shopping experience in Sharjah.

Best Places to Eat in Sharjah

Sharjah's culinary scene offers a range of flavours, from traditional Emirati cuisine to international dishes. Here are five top spots to eat:

• Al Ustad Special Kabab: A long-standing favourite known for its juicy and flavorful kebabs served with freshly baked bread. Try their famous mutton kebabs and grilled chicken for an authentic taste.
• Five Guys: This popular chain is loved for its freshly made burgers and crispy hand-cut fries. Don’t miss their cheeseburger with unlimited toppings and salted caramel milkshake.
• Nando's: A go-to spot for flame-grilled Peri-Peri chicken with a variety of spice levels to choose from. Order the Peri-Peri chicken platter and spicy rice for a satisfying meal.
• Zahr El-Laymoun: A Lebanese restaurant offering a charming ambience and fresh, flavourful dishes. Try their grilled halloumi, hummus with lamb, and mixed grill platter for a traditional experience.
• Gazebo Restaurant: A well-loved Indian eatery famous for its slow-cooked dishes and aromatic spices. Their Dum Biryani, Butter Chicken, and Galouti Kebabs are must-tries.

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• Sea Waves Restaurant: A popular seafood spot along the Sharjah Corniche, offering fresh seafood with beautiful sea views. Try their grilled hammour, prawn platter, and lobster thermidor for a flavorful experience.
• Mandi Al Khaleej Restaurant: Specialising in traditional Yemeni cuisine, the restaurant is known for its aromatic rice dishes and slow-cooked meats. Don’t miss their chicken mandi, lamb madhbi, and saltah.
• Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe: A heritage-themed restaurant that serves authentic Emirati dishes in a traditional setting. Try their Machboos Lahem, grilled Emirati fish, and chebab pancakes for a cultural feast.
• Emperor Restaurant Sharjah: A well-known spot for Chinese cuisine, offering a variety of flavourful and comforting dishes. Must-try items include their Peking duck, shrimp dumplings, and Szechuan beef.
• Omar Al Khayam Restaurant: This Persian eatery is known for its rich, aromatic dishes made with fresh ingredients. Enjoy their juicy kebabs, zereshk polo with chicken, and ghormeh sabzi for a taste of Persia.

Best Getaways Around Sharjah

Sharjah's central location makes it a great starting point for exploring the UAE. Here are five top getaway destinations:

• Dubai: Located 30 km from Sharjah, Dubai offers a dazzling skyline, luxury shopping, and iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
• Abu Dhabi: Situated 160 km from Sharjah, the UAE’s capital is home to the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and world-class cultural sites.
• Ajman: Just 15 km from Sharjah, Ajman is a relaxed getaway with beautiful beaches, traditional souks, and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Fujairah: Nestled 120 km from Sharjah, Fujairah boasts stunning mountain landscapes, pristine beaches, and top diving spots along the East Coast.
• Ras Al Khaimah: 90 km from Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah offers adventure-filled experiences with rugged mountains, historic forts, and thrilling activities like zip-lining at Jebel Jais.

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• Kalba: Located 110 km from Sharjah on the East Coast, Kalba is an ecotourism haven known for its diverse wildlife, mangroves, and the Khor Kalba Conservation Reserve.
• Al Ain: Situated 140 km from Sharjah in the Abu Dhabi emirate, Al Ain, also known as Garden City, is famous for its lush oasis, Al Jahili Fort, and rich heritage.
• Hatta: 130 km from Sharjah in the Dubai emirate, Hatta is a scenic mountain retreat offering outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking in the Hajar Mountains.
• Liwa Oasis: Nestled 280 km from Sharjah, Liwa Oasis is a breathtaking desert escape known for its vast sand dunes and an immersive desert experience.
• Umm Al Quwain: 55 km from Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain is a peaceful coastal getaway with serene beaches, historical sites, and a relaxed environment away from the city bustle.