Sharjah, the third largest emirate of United Arab Emirates is a unique example of extraordinary cultural history. Compared to its sibling - Dubai, Sharjah's way of life can be branded as conservative where liquor and co-habitation by unmarried couples is banned as well as the rules of decency and public conduct are strictly followed. Although, the glitz is missing, Sharjah offers it fair share of attractions and traditional values to an unassuming tourist. Catapulted to the ranks of 'Cultural Capital of the Arab World' by UNESCO in 1998, Sharjah prefers to boast about its scenic waterfronts overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, beautiful mosques, souks and the numerous, well-maintained museums. Contrasting its traditional front are modern day conveniences and modes of entertainment at the waterfront hotels, apartments and restaurants. Carrying the cultural lineage, dating millions of years, firmly on its shoulders, Sharjah heads into the 21st century with pride and passion.

Top 10 Sharjah Landmarks

Al Jazeera Park:
The Al Jazeera Park has been specially built for families on an island inside the Khalid Lagoon. Spread over 250,000 square meters, the park opened on the first day of the Al Adha Eid holidays on 21st October, 1979. Kids will be thrilled when they visit the park which has a swimming pool, mini zoo and an amusement park for a fun packed day out. Away from the bustle of the city, tourists can travel to the island in a car, boat or a train that will show them around the sublime Al Jazeera Park. The park is home to a number of facilities including a cafeteria where people can buy snacks and drinks plus a kiosk for souvenirs and toys.

Opening Hours: Saturday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 3:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Tuesday evening for Ladies only, Public Eids 9:30 am - 12:30 pm

Sharjah Desert Park:
Sharjah's Desert Park area provides access to three venues - Arabia's Wildlife Centre, Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum and Children's Farm. The Arabia Wildlife Centre is the only zoo in Arabia that displays Arabian wildlife in their true, natural surroundings. Built completely indoors with a walk-through aviary it is suitable for visitors, as they get to catch a glimpse of the Arabian leopard, venomous viper at a close distance. There is even a Children's Farm located next door where kids can pet and feed domesticated animals. The Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum is dedicated to preserving the knowledge of plants and animals through literature, prehistoric fossils and meteors for future generations to admire and understand.

Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday 9 am - 5.30 pm, Friday 2 pm - 5.30 pm, Saturday 11 am - 5.30 pm, Closed on Tuesday

Museum of Islamic Civilization:
Sharjah's Museum of Islamic Civilization is an exceptional museum displaying exquisite artefacts referring to the Islamic culture. Located in the Al Majarrah area, the museum was once a souk but now adorns the role of researching, developing and collecting Islamic masterpieces for local and international tourists.

Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 8 am - 8 pm, Friday 4 pm - 8 pm, Closed on Sunday

Sharjah Aquarium:
The Sharjah Aquarium has collected a rich, diverse selection of marine life at its premises, to egg on tourists to participate in the conservation of oceanic marine life. Right from large sharks to the vivacious, colourful fish and delicate seahorses, the aquarium features nearly 250 species of marine life along with coral reefs, lagoons, rock pools and mangroves.

Opening Hours:Saturday to Thursday 8 am - 8 pm, Friday 4 pm - 8 pm, Closed on Sunday

Al Qasba:
Al Qasba is a truly, unique package deal settled in the heart of Sharjah waterfront, where children, families and entrepreneurs can discover the Arabian culture at the theatres, galleries and activity centres as well do business at the Multaqa Al Qasba conference halls. Various outdoor and indoor activities offer a panoramic view of the Sharjah as one unwinds under the relaxing environs of the sky. Abra rides, Al Qasba Musical Fountain, Kids Fun Zone, Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates Ferris Wheel all guarantee a fun filled, relaxing day at Al Qasba. Later on, dine at the world famous restaurants and shop your heart out at the glittering retail centres and kiosks.

Abra Ride Opening Hours: Saturday to Wednesday 4 pm - 12 am, Thursday, Friday & Public Holidays 4 pm - 1 am
Kids Fun Zone Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 9 am - 12 pm, Friday & Public Holidays 2 pm - 12 am

Sharjah Heritage Museum:
Sharjah Heritage Museum preserves 'objets d'art', precious to its rich customs and traditions. One can particularly get to see handicrafts from the time when people survived only on pearling and fishing. The museum is famous for its antique crafts, silks, currency, herbal medicines and jewellery.

Opening Hours:Saturday to Thursday 8 am - 8 pm, Friday 4 pm - 8 pm, Closed on Sunday

Sharjah Archaeology Museum:
As the name suggests, the Sharjah Archaeology Museum preserves all archaeological records relevant to Sharjah's history and exhibits the collections for visitors to appreciate, learn and enjoy. Coins, weapons, artefacts, jewellery and pottery dating back from the Stone Age are brought alive at the museum.

Opening Hours:Saturday to Thursday 9 am - 1 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm, Friday 5 pm - 8 pm, Closed on Sunday

Sharjah Discovery Centre:
The Sharjah Discovery Centre is a hands-on activity centre created for children so that they get to learn and understand the importance of science and technology through play activities. There are various themed areas where kids can shop in the supermarket, test the five senses, become a star on TV, climb the wall, etc. Later, they can gorge on delicious cakes and sandwiches at the next door café.

Opening Hours:Sunday to Thursday 8 am - 2 pm, Friday & Saturday 4 pm - 8 pm

Sharjah Science Museum:
The Sharjah Science Museum is dedicated to educating visitors of all ages, on science, through various interactive displays on life, aerodynamics, science experiments, cryogenics, space, etc. Young children are allotted their own play area where they can discover and learn scientific knowledge about the things surrounding them. The café next door provides snacks and beverages.

Opening Hours:Sunday to Thursday 8 am - 2 pm, Friday & Saturday 4 pm - 8 pm

Central Market (Blue Souk):
The biggest Souk in Sharjah built as per Islamic requirements, the Central Market is located on the Khaled Lagoon. It is the main shopping hub for Sharjah residents where they buy their daily needs at the 600 shops spread over two wings and connected by tunnels. The market is designed in blue tiles on the outside walls giving its popular name 'Blue Souk'. One wing is dedicated to gifts and electronics while the other is chosen for trade of precious jewels.

Opening Hours:Daily (except Friday) 9 am - 1 pm, 4 pm - 11 pm, Friday closed from noon - 4 pm

Top Activities

Souks & Bazaars:
The true essence of shopping in Sharjah lies in its souks and bazaars where colours, aromas and sounds intermingle to reproduce a colourful replication of the emirate's history. The Central Market or Blue Souk, Khaled Lagoon, Souk Al Arsah, Souk Al Bahar and Souk Al Ghuwair are famous for their extraordinary collection of handicrafts, jewellery, oriental carpets, rugs and Arabic cosmetics & textiles. One of the oldest in UAE, tourists are spellbound by the beauty of the architecture of these souks that opens doors to a world of old charm beauty. Bargain for some henna, perfumes, aromatic oils, spices and Arabic clothing at the picturesque bazaars.
Most souks are open from 9-9.30 am to 1.30 pm and 4.30 pm to 10.30-11 pm

Malls & Shopping Centres:
Sharjah is a valuable discovery for a shopaholic where he can shop for tax free oriental carpets, Middle Eastern sweets, jewellery and hand crafted goods at the infinite shopping centres and souks. Moreover, shopping doesn't just imply buying a wide range of products but is a full blown activity under one roof where the shopper dines, watches movies and entertains himself all day long. Most shopping malls open from 10 am to 11 am on weekdays and Saturdays and from 2 pm to 11 pm on Sundays. Some of the famous malls, to buy reasonably priced goods are the Safeer Mall, Sahara Centre, Sharjah City Centre and Sharjah Mega Mall.

Beach Activities:
With the Gulf of Oman on one side and the Arabian Gulf on another, Sharjah strikes a chord with an abundance of beaches and beach activities. The sun kissed public beaches like Al Khan Beach and Al Mamzar offer free access and optimum opportunities for sun bathing. For tourists interested in water activities like snorkelling and diving, the blue sparkling waters offer the depth and transparency to gaze at the beautiful marine life. Although swimwear is banned on public beaches, one can book coastline hotels in Sharjah that offer the privacy and freedom to use the private beach as they like, for a charge. Some of the other beaches in Sharjah are the Al Corniche Beach, Khor Fakkan beaches, Khaled Lagoon & Al Buheirah Corniche, and Sharjah Corniche. Dress appropriately on the beaches, especially the ladies.

Desert Activities:
The face of Sharjah is prominently made up of the shifting waves of desert dunes. From time immemorial, people have made the desert, a place of stay, rest, entertainment and to expand their boundaries. There are lots of desert activities one can take part in, while in Sharjah. Whether it is challenging the dunes in 4-wheel SUV vehicles or on a quad bike, the desert presents a big opportunity for adrenaline junkies. Besides, there are the impressive Wadi trips in the Al Hajar Mountain range from Dibba up into the Mussandam Peninsula. Experience the rugged landscape and the harsh conditions of the desert.

Lounging in the Parks:
The greenery of the landscaped parks strikes a good colour contrast with the desert. Of the 40 parks spread across the city, the Al Jazeera Fun Park is the most enchanting as it enthrals youngsters with a mini zoo, swimming pool, and an amusement park. The Sharjah National Park, Green Belt Park and Al Majaz Park are places of rest and relaxation where one can enjoy barbecued food, play games and picnic in the peaceful settings.

Eye of the Emirates observatory wheel:
Located in the Al Qasba hub, Eye of Emirates observatory wheel endows a 360° panoramic view of Sharjah city sprinkled with landmark buildings, green parks, museums, souks, and the Gulf coastline all the way to neighbouring Dubai. The observatory wheel is open from Saturday to Wednesday, 4.00 am to 12.00 am, Thursday & Friday, 3.00 am to 12.00 am.

Sharjah Water Festival & F1 Boat Races:
During the tourist season of Sharjah, around December, Sharjah punches in action packed days by organizing the F1 Powerboat Race & Sharjah Water Festival. The Sharjah Water Festival which takes place at Khaled Lagoon has activities involving all types of water-themed shows especially for children. The F1 boat race is a spectacular event that takes place on the grand finale day of the Water Festival.

Top Sharjah FAQ's

Q.1) What is the capital city of United Arab Emirates?

Ans: The capital city of United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi.

Q.2) What is the official language spoken in Sharjah?

Ans: The official language of Sharjah is Arabic, but tourists need not fear since English is widely spoken and understood.

Q.3) Where is Sharjah located?

Ans: Sharjah, located on the west coast of UAE is the only emirate to be surrounded by both the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. In fact, it owns three enclaves, Kalba, Dibba Al-Hisn, and Khor Fakkan bordering the Gulf of Oman.

Q.4) Do tourists have to follow any restrictions during Ramadan?

Ans: Tourists should follow the below piece of advice during the month of Ramadan since disregarding the laws and customs could have serious implications -

Q.5) What is the best time to visit Sharjah?

Ans: Since temperatures can soar beyond 40° C in the summer months from May to September, the winter months from October to April are the best months to visit Sharjah. The average temperature during the winters hover around 24°-25° C during the day, but in the night it gets cooler.

Q.6) How safe is Sharjah for tourists?

Ans: Sharjah is relatively safe for tourists since the crime rate is low and severe punishments are strictly enforced. However, if you find yourself in an emergency, you can contact the following services -

Q.7) What is the local currency in UAE?

Ans: The local currency of UAE is Dirham or Dhs with the abbreviation AED. Tourists can exchange foreign currency and traveller cheques at the airport, hotels, Money Exchange Centres, banks or local moneychangers.

Q.8) What are the alcohol restrictions in Sharjah?

Ans: Sharjah is tagged as a "dry emirate" since sale or possession of alcohol is banned, except at the duty free business lounges of the Sharjah International Airport and Sharjah Wanderers Club. In addition, those with a personal alcohol license can bring in alcohol from other emirates.

Q.9) Which museums should I visit in Sharjah?

Ans: Sharjah is well known for its museums displaying the rich, cultural life in the emirate. Here's a list of a few -

1. Al Eslah School Museum
2. Al Mahatta Museum
3. Sharjah Archaeology Museum
4. Sharjah Art Museum
5. Bait Al Nahboodah
6. Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim
7. Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamed Al Qasimi
8. Sharjah Calligraphy Museum
9. Sharjah Discovery Centre
10. Sharjah Heritage Museum
11. Sharjah Maritime Museum
12. Sharjah Science Museum
13. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
14. Sharjah's Natural History and Botanical Museum
15. Sharjah Aquarium
16. Sharjah Hisn
17. Majilis Al Madifaa

Q.10) How is the shopping scene in Sharjah like?

Ans: Shopping in Sharjah is an extremely rewarding experience. There are gold jewellery malls like the Gold Centre as well small shops that sell everything at bargain prices. It gets more interesting with the Blue Souk, a 600 shops extravaganza selling everything from carpets, curios, gold to designer clothes.

Q.11) Should I obtain a health insurance before travelling to Sharjah?

Ans: Sharjah health care services are developed and one gets timely help in an emergency. If you want the expertise of a costly private hospital, health insurance is must. Otherwise, the government hospital in case of emergency, will allow you to stay for a max of 24 hours.

Q.12) What type of clothing should I carry when travelling to Sharjah?

Ans: Since Sharjah is an Islamic state, wear respectful clothes that cover every inch of your body except the face, to avoid offending the local people & culture. Follow this especially during Ramadan. Also, since the climate is hot, light weight summer clothing is suitable but do not forget to bring in sweaters or jackets during the winters as the evenings are quite chilly.

Q.13) What is the Time Zone of Sharjah?

Ans: The standard time zone of Sharjah is UTC/GMT +4 hours. No daylight saving is observed. The time zone abbreviation is GST - Gulf Standard time.

Q.14) How do I get around in Sharjah?

Ans: Sharjah has an effective public transportation system comprising of buses, metered and non-metered taxis and inter-emirate travel. The routes are well distributed throughout the city & emirate, plus the tickets are comparatively inexpensive. However, if you prefer to hire a car in Sharjah, there are many online car rental companies that offer good quality, new vehicles at competitive rates.

Q.15) Who is the ruler of Sharjah?

Ans: H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi III is the current monarch of Sharjah who has ruled since 1972 , apart from a six-day period between June 17 and 23, 1987 when his brother Sheikh `Abd al-`Aziz bin Muhammad al-Qasimi tried to take his place.

Getting Around in Sharjah

Getting around in Sharjah is extremely effortless, since there are a variety of palate-pleasing options on offer. Visitors can choose from buses, taxis and car rentals depending on where and when they want to travel. Car rental gives you a choice of intimate travelling in addition to deciding the day, time and travel route. It presents much more flexibility than public transport.

There are a lot of fixed taxi stands across the city, operated by various franchisees authorized by the Sharjah City Public Transportation Corporation. These metered taxis cost AED 3.00 (upon entry) between 6:00 am - 10:59 pm and AED 4.00 (upon entry) between 11:00 pm - 5:59 am. Then for every 162.5 meters, it is AED 0.25. To drive to the airport or Dubai, an additional surcharge of AED 20.00 is added to the fare. If you are sharing a taxi then the charge is AED 7.00 (upon entry) from Al Rolla Square/Industrial Area Square.

Moreover, the Mowasalat operated bus routes also proffer an excellent option of getting around the city. People with disabilities are provided with an accessible ramp and comfortable seating space in the bus.

There are a few intercity bus services operated between the seven emirates with separate fares for the final destination and remaining stations.

Bus System

Sharjah City Public Transportation Corporation has handed over the franchise of operating the public transport system to KGL Passenger Transport Services. Known locally as Mowasalat, the bright orange-coloured buses offer a comfortable journey along Sharjah's pre-decided routes. The map can be viewed and downloaded from their official website. Frequent passengers can pay their ticket fees electronically on the buses using the Sayer card which is cheap, compared to the paper ticket payable to the bus driver in cash. The Sayer Card costs AED 45, AED 90 and AED 180 plus a one time payment of AED 5 for the card cost. It can bought/recharged at the Al Ittihad Terminal or Al Jubail Terminal. Mowasalat also provides transport service to and fro Sharjah International Airport. Furthermore, KGL Passenger Transport Services offers transport between Sharjah City, Ras Al Khaimah, Khor Fakkan, Kalba, Fujairah, Masafi, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Hamriyah Free Zone, Dhaid, Madam, Dibba Al Hisn, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai.

Taxis

Sharjah City Public Transportation Corporation has awarded operation of taxi services in the emirate to different franchise companies, who own the license to drive taxis in Sharjah city and emirate, including shopping centres, airports and residential areas. The companies are Sharjah Taxi, Emirates Taxi, Citi Taxi, Union Taxi and Advantage Taxi.

For people with lower income, there are separate taxis operating on a fixed route at a fixed rate, without using a meter.

Car Rental

You couldn't ask for a more relaxing travel, provided that you rent a car in Sharjah from a reputed dealer. Discover the emirate of Sharjah at your own pace within the confines of a private, luxurious car. Since international driving license is replaceable, one can easily get the required driving license to explore Sharjah. Moreover, there are a variety of cars offered by online rental companies at competitive prices that will fit your budget. Book an exotic car or a rugged SUV to enjoy an adventurous trip to a neighbouring emirate; say Dubai or Abu Dhabi. As petrol is cheap in the Mid-East countries, car hire turns out to be quite an economical option. However, one must remember the driving laws and regularly check the speed limit, since Sharjah is known to be strict when it comes to implementation of laws.

Communication in Sharjah

An excellent communication network is essential to establish a smooth flow of information. But this happens only when all nodes of communication such as telephone, post, internet, newspapers, etc. work in tandem with each other. In Sharjah, travellers can use coins or pre-paid Etisalat card to call people. Phone cards are available at any of the grocery shops, shopping centres, Etisalat offices and bookstores. If you are calling locally, the city code is 06 but if you are making an international call to Sharjah dial +971 6 followed by the phone number. If you want to dial a mobile number from outside of UAE, dial +971 050/055 followed by the phone number.

When it comes to the print medium, Khaleej Times and Gulf News are the two main English newspapers read in Sharjah. If you want to send a letter to your friend or family, Sharjah Central Post Office is open from 8 am to 5 pm from Saturday through Thursday. Call 572-2219 for more details. To buy mail letters, stamps and parcels, 24-hour postal services are available at petrol stations in Sharjah at Al Garhoud, Al Wasl Road, and Safa Park. DHL and FedEx are the two main courier companies in Sharjah.

Etisalat offers the choice of surfing the internet without subscribing using the Dial 'N' Surf service. Just call 600200100 and get connected.