Sharjah

United Arab Emirates (UAE), Middle East

Sharjah is a vibrant cultural hub in the UAE known for its rich heritage and stunning architecture. It boasts the Sharjah Art Museum, which exhibits contemporary works, and the stunning Al Noor Mosque, one of the most beautiful in the region. The city’s many museums, like the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, and traditional souks make it an immersive experience for visitors wanting to dive into Emirati culture. With beautiful waterfronts along the Al Majaz Waterfront and plenty of family-friendly attractions, Sharjah is a must-visit on any UAE itinerary.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Sharjah

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Sharjah

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Sharjah Art Museum

Discover contemporary and classical art in a stunning setting.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sharjah Aquarium

Dive into marine life at this engaging aquarium.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander around Al Qasba

Enjoy dining, entertainment, and art along the waterfront.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sharjah Heritage Area

Immerse in traditional Emirati culture and history.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Sharjah Fort

Discover the history of Sharjah in this restored fort.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Sharjah Central Market

Shop for traditional goods in a vibrant market setting.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Islamic Museum of Sharjah

Experience Islamic art and history in a beautiful museum.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Al Mamzar Beach Park

Unwind at this beautiful beach park with facilities.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Sharjah Science Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits and science displays.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rain Room

Experience a unique interactive art installation.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-16 (#201 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

UAE Dirham

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Arabic

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Khuzi

Spiced rice with slow-cooked lamb. (National dish)

Machboos

Saffron rice with meat or fish.

Harees

Wheat porridge with meat and spices.

Shawarma

Grilled meat wrap with vegetables.

Luqaimat

V

Sweet dumplings drizzled with syrup.

Phrases to learn

English

Arabic

Hello

Marhaban

(Mar-ha-ban)

Yes/No

Naam / La

(Nah-am / Lah)

Thank you

Shukran

(Shook-ran)

Excuse me

Afwan

(Ahf-wan)

How much?

Kam?

(Kam)