Explore the art and cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates, Sharjah. Engulf yourself in the beautiful array of Gulf culture in its markets and museums. This city of the United Arab Emirates ranks third in the list of most populous cities in the United Arab Emirates after Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Also called the Pearl of the Gulf, Sharjah has plenty of places to explore, and each attraction has its own story to tell.
The people are generous and kind and will always help you out. Explore the history of this place from pre-oil times to one of the wealthiest nations in the world. It has landed on the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf and is deeply influenced by the sea. The place has preserved its culture and showcases it to the world. It is extremely safe for travel and the perfect hub for buying Arabic antiques. Definitely plan the next family or group trip to Sharjah.
Celebrate your special occasion at these 7 places to visit or tourist attractions of Sharjah in 2023.
- Sharjah Art Museum
- Sharjah Heritage Area
- Shopping at Souq Al Jubail
- Standing Tall: Sharjah Fort
- Sharjah Central Souq
- Al Noor Island
- Sharjah Aquarium
1. Sharjah Art Museum
If you consider yourself an art connoisseur, the Sharjah Art Museum is the place to go. Spread over 3 floors, with over 72 galleries, it sure is a delight to look at. It stores contemporary art from all over the Middle East. The art dates back to the 18th century, showcasing the Arabic culture, history and lifestyle, in vibrant colors. In addition, there are many engrossing annual and seasonal exhibitions. It was opened in 1997, it displays nouveau artforms and artists. Only 27 km from Dubai, this should be the first on your itinerary to visit, especially for art lovers.
Opening hours of Sharjah Art Museum: 8 AM to 8 PM
How much time is required to explore: 1-2 hours (approx.)
What’s the entry fee: Free for all
2. Sharjah Heritage Area
Discover the true essence of Emirates and admire the traditional Arabian style architecture. The Sharjah Heritage Area is an enriching district with many museums. Time to know all about the history and rich culture of the United Arab Nations. Experience everything UAE is known for, and understand where they are coming from. There is the Sharjah Heritage Museum, Calligraphy Museum, Science Museum and much more. It is like entering a history book and experiencing everything hands-on. A walk down the district will leave you an intellectual! Get a chance to buy traditional jewelry, garments, skin care products and of course, spices. A must-visit for a little adventure and exploration.
Opening hours of Sharjah Heritage Area: 8 AM to 8 PM
How much time is required to explore: 1-2 hours (approx.)
What’s the entry fee: Free for kids below 2 years, 5 AED for kids below 12 years
Note: Entry fee is free on Martyr’s Day, UAE National Day, Sharjah Heritage Days.
3. Shopping at Souq Al Jubail
The largest fresh produce market of UAE, Souq Al Jubail, feels less of a shop and more of a tourist destination. Don’t go by the name; it is not a souq (traditional market) but a convenient state-of-the-art store. The best quality of seafood, fish and prawns especially you will get from here.
It is the perfect way to experience UAE life: people talking, shopping and bargaining. You will easily pick up some local phrases here. They even have an auction for the day’s catch, which you will get to witness. This is one fish market that you have to visit!
4. Standing Tall: Sharjah Fort
Explore the fully air-conditioned museum on your visit to Sharjah if you want to discover the history. The Sharjah Fort was made over 200 years ago built on a two-story traditional rock. It is rightly known as the ‘Heart of Sharjah.’ Being in the middle of the city, it was historically well linked by the Gulf’s trade networks. Even after its demolition in 1970, the one remaining tower stands tall, giving an ode to everything that the fort has witnessed over the years. From the inside, it showcases the intricate architecture and design of the Gulf period. It lies very close to the Heritage District and numerous museums. One needs to visit it, especially during morning and evening hours.
Opening hours of Sharjah Fort: 8 AM to 8 PM
How much time is required to explore: 1-2 hours (approx.)
What’s the entry fee: 5 AED (approx.) for all
5. Sharjah Central Souq
The Sharjah Central Market or ‘The Blue Souq’ is the central hub for shoppers. It is nicknamed so due to the detailed blue tile work at the entrance of the market. With over 600 markets, you will get various jewelry, clothes, gold, perfumes, food. You name it, they have it. Everything is handcrafted in traditional and authentic methods.
There are several food joints to excite your taste buds. It is like a whole new city inside. It requires more than a day to fully explore each nook and corner. A haven for picking up souvenirs and knick-knacks.
6. Al Noor Island
Imagine a scenic, picturesque oasis in the middle of a lagoon. You can relax and enjoy the view, or you can explore the culture and nightlife. All this at Al Noor Island, Khalid Lagoon. Opened in 2015, it can be accessed by a bridge from Corniche Street. It has received many international awards for its design.
There are several rejuvenation centers, museums and shopping hubs. There is Buttery House: showcasing millions of species of butterflies. There are also book pavilions and cafes for your aesthetic needs. Needless to say, this place will make a great one for pictures.
7. Dive into Sharjah Aquarium
Explore this underwater aquarium if you are looking for family friendly places or tourist attractions of Sharjah. Watching several types of fishes here can lift your happiness to the next level. Being very close to the sea, maritime life is very important in Sharjah.
The Sharjah Aquarium is the perfect way to explore underwater creatures and understand this lifeform. It is a great attraction for kids as you see creatures from so close, you think you are actually inside the sea! The largest educational center of UAE, it spreads over two floors underwater! It holds many different tanks and over 150 different kinds of maritime life and creatures. It also has a turtle rehabilitation center because they care. So don’t miss a chance to explore this colorful place full of vibrant energy.
Opening hours of Sharjah Aquarium: 8 AM to 8 PM
How much time is required to explore: 2-3 hours (approx.)
What’s the entry fee: 35 AED (approx.) for all
So We Are Saying…
One just has to explore the culture and history of the United Arab Emirates, and what better place than Sharjah. Being right next to the sea, the weather is amicable all through the year. So anytime you visit is a good time. It is the perfect hangout ground for a trip with children. It is enriching both for physical and mental stimulation.
By the time you leave, you would have gained a great knowledge of the Gulf culture. You can relax on the lagoon and enjoy the sea and sunsets.
Just imagine how beautiful the photos would come out. You can enjoy it with your loved ones while having an amazing adventure. This is a place that keeps calling you back for more and more. Whether it is the history that attracts you or the sea, visit Sharjah whenever you come to the United Arab Emirates.
