As a child, the tales of Arabian Nights must have ignited your imagination, transporting you to a realm where ancient cities brimmed with architectural marvels, vibrant cultural treasures adorned every corner, and thrilling adventures awaited around each winding alleyway. Well, prepare to have those fantastical visions become reality, for nestled just a short 4-hour flight from India lies the enticing city of Sharjah – the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Sharjah – where tales of wonder come to life and the past weaves seamlessly into the present. © Visit Sharjah
Here, the echoes of a storied past reverberate through every intricately carved stone, every meticulously curated museum, and every heritage site lovingly preserved. Sharjah is a living, breathing tapestry that weaves together the rich, multi-hued threads of Islamic history, Arab traditions, and contemporary creativity into a captivating masterpiece unlike any other!
So if you wonder how to make the most of your trip to Sharjah, here's a guide to help you navigate the city.
Immerse in cultural pomp & history
Art in every corner, history embedded in every brick, and culture alive in every heartbeat – this is what awaits you in the vibrant city of Sharjah.
First, feast your eyes on the magnificent Al Noor Mosque, an architectural masterpiece crafted in the grand Ottoman style. You'll be transported to a world of divine beauty as you marvel at the intricate patterns and Quranic inscriptions adorning this holy place.
Experience how art, history, and culture collide to create a vibrant and unforgettable experience. © Visit Sharjah
For a more unconventional experience, head to the Flying Saucer, a unique building that has been transformed into a community hub for arts and culture. Home to various businesses over the years, visitors can now explore exhibitions, enjoy outdoor performances, and even browse through a curated art library.
And for a taste of Sharjah's traditional heritage, the Kalba Ice Factory is a must. This historic building has been restored and turned into a space for contemporary art, while also preserving its original industrial architecture. The building is located next to the Kalba Creek and Mangrove Reserve in Sharjah, known for its environmental diversity and habitat for endangered species such as the Arabian Collared Kingfisher and green turtles.
The city itself is a living canvas, with its streets adorned with stunning murals and sculptures. Take a stroll around the Al Majaz Waterfront to admire the Maraya Art Park, an outdoor sculpture park featuring works from international artists.
Sharjah doesn't just boast about its art, it also actively promotes it. Attend workshops and lectures at the Emirates Fine Arts Society or the Maraya Art Centre and immerse yourself in the local creative scene. For a true taste of Sharjah's culture, explore the Bait Al Serkal and Bait Obaid Al Shamsi, two restored heritage houses that now serve as a vibrant hub for cultural activities and art exhibitions.
A visit to the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is a must for anyone interested in learning about the rich history of Islam and its achievements in the region.
Find how every corner of Sharjah is adorned with art, steeped in history, and pulsing with cultural energy. © Visit Sharjah
At the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, visitors can delve deeper into the ancient history of the region, explore the dunes, and discover ancient forts, burial grounds, and settlements, offering a fascinating insight into the early settlers of the region. Moreover, calligraphy enthusiasts will be in awe at the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, the only museum in the Arab world dedicated to the art of calligraphy!
Watch the beauty of Arabic calligraphy come alive at the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum! © Visit Sharjah
One of the newest additions to Sharjah's cultural scene is the House of Wisdom, a state-of-the-art library and cultural Centre. With over 100,000 books and a range of facilities including a Fabrication Lab and Print-on-demand book stations, the House of Wisdom is not just a repository for literature, but a social hub for learning and innovation.
Embark on thrilling escapades with loved ones
Sharjah is a haven for families seeking to bond over adventure activities! You must have heard of rainforests, but have you ever heard of a 'rain room'? Visit Sharjah's famous Rain Room, where you can walk through falling water without getting wet. Imagine the wonder on your children's faces as they walk through 2,500 litres of self-cleaning, recycled water, with the falling droplets magically pausing wherever they step. It's like a dream come true!
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Head to Al Noor Island to experience the magical world of butterflies at their Butterfly House. With over 500 fluttering creatures of different shapes and colours, this attraction is sure to captivate the whole family. Over 20 different species of butterflies nestle within the temperature and humidity-controlled interiors, such as the exotic Tailed Jay, Emerald Swallowtail, Pink Rose, and Malachite.
Experience the enchantment of hundreds of colourful butterflies at Al Noor Island's Butterfly House 🦋 © Visit Sharjah
For a taste of the local culture, visit the Kalba Birds of Prey Centre and watch majestic birds in action. This is a great opportunity for kids to learn about the traditional sport of falconry and see these birds up close.
For a full day of adventure, head to the Sharjah Desert Park, which offers a plethora of activities for all ages. Let your kids have a blast at the children's farm and take stroll through the Islamic Botanical Museum. Nature lovers can also try the Arabian Wildlife Centre in the same area, which houses a variety of native animals including the endangered Arabian leopard, Oryx antelopes, cheetahs, and flamingos.
If witnessing native African wildlife in their natural habitat fascinates you, don't miss out on Sharjah Safari! With more than 120 species of animals and 12 different regions inspired by Africa, this newly opened tourist destination is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts. From lions, elephants, and giraffes to crocodiles, deer, and rhinoceros, you can witness them all in an environment similar to their natural habitat.
Native African wildlife and endless fun await at the Sharjah Safari– a perfect day out for the whole family. © Visit Sharjah
And if that isn't enough, you can also visit the Sharjah Aquarium boasting 20 different tanks to witness coral reefs, clownfish, seahorses, eels, and sharks. You can also head to Al Mamzar Beach for a day of ultimate adventure. Get your swimsuits on for a day of swimming & snorkelling!
Dive into a day of sandy shores and crystal clear waters at Khorfakkan! © Visit Sharjah
If wilderness is on your mind, then a trip to Khorfakkan Bay for diving and snorkelling is a must. Seven dive sites strung along the bay offer a range of diving experiences from wreck diving to reef diving. It’s a great site to spot sharks like the common blacktip reef shark, Moray eels, Arabian angelfish, and turtles.
For more natural adventures with a side of history, take the Mleiha Fossil Rock Hiking Trail and discover fossils that are over 80 million years old. This will surely be an experience that your family will never forget!
Unearth the secrets of the past as you hike through the rugged beauty of Mleiha Fossil Rock Trail. © Visit Sharjah
Embark on an adventure through time and discover ancient fossils at Mleiha Fossil Rock Hiking Trail. © Visit Sharjah
Indulge in retail therapy and discover hidden gems
Shop it till you drop it because Sharjah is here to spoil you with its endless options. From traditional Souqs to luxury malls, Sharjah has everything to cater to your shopping needs.
Souq Al Arsah is the perfect place for those looking for affordable shopping in Sharjah. This Souq is a treasure trove of traditional handmade jewellery, antiques, and medicinal herbs. The best part? It is easily accessible and less crowded on weekdays.
Souq Al Jubail is a modern-age fruits & vegetable market in Sharjah that also offers different types of meats and fish. If you love perfumes and cosmetics, then Central Souq is certainly the place to go – make sure to have fun bargaining!
Traditional souqs, luxury malls, and street markets – Sharjah has it all for your ultimate shopping spree! © Visit Sharjah
For a truly authentic shopping experience, head to Souq Saqr – a maze of hand-woven carpets, flavourful spices, and intricate ceramics.
For a more modern shopping experience, visit one of the many luxury malls in Sharjah like Mega Mall, Sahara Centre, or Safeer Mall. These malls offer a wide range of designer brands and high-end products. Sharjah City Centre and Al Zahia City Centre both have huge selections of up-to-date favourite franchises and cosmetics shops. All these malls have great options for all the family plus cinemas and fun play areas for the kids.
Experience flavour explosions from ancient roots!
They say that the best way to experience a city is through its food. And when it comes to Sharjah, there is no better way to indulge in its culture and history than through its legendary eateries. These restaurants have stood the test of time, serving up traditional and authentic dishes for decades, and have become a must-visit for any foodie.
Step back in time and tantalise your taste buds with Sharjah's legendary restaurants, where culture and history come alive in every bite. © Visit Sharjah
From the first-ever café in Sharjah, Al Arsah (located in the Souq al Arsah), serving authentic Keema and Khubz with Sulemani, to the iconic Al Fanar Restaurant that brings back the flavor of traditional Emirati cuisine from the 60s, these eateries have become a part of the city's fabric.
For those who want to keep indulging in the taste of the past, Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood is a must-visit. This quaint tea house takes you back in time with its charming decor and serves up traditional Arabic coffee and dishes like chicken machboos and grilled halloumi salad.
And if you want to experience a fusion of flavours, head to Chie, House of Wisdom, located beside Sharjah's University City area. The restaurant boasts a unique menu created by celebrity Chef Akmal Anuar, with dishes like the famous Chicken Sando and mouth-watering Australian Lamb Chops.
Indian cuisine is also well-known and loved in Sharjah, and the India Palace Restaurant at Al Heera Beach offers a taste of authentic Indian dishes like biryanis and kebabs.
The city also boasts modern and trendy restaurants that offer a fusion of flavours from around the world. Shababeek, located at Al Qasba is known for its Lebanese cuisine such as hummus or the goat labneh. Celebrity Chef Maroun Chedid's menu blends traditional flavours with a modern twist, making for a memorable dining experience.
Middle Eastern flavours await at Sharjah's historic eateries, where every bite is a journey through time and tradition. © Visit Sharjah
If you are looking for an intimate dining experience, The View By Wave offers not only delicious food but also a stunning view of the Khorfakkan Corniche. Perhaps the most unique experience of all is at Fen Café and Restaurant, located at Al Suhub Rest House. Here, you can sip on delicious coffee, while enjoying the view of the city from above. As the sun sets over Sharjah, you can indulge in their eclectic menu featuring dishes such as Sourdough Crust Pizza and Spicy Ikasumi Pasta With Shrimp.
Even in these new establishments, the essence of Sharjah's culture and history can be found in every dish while older establishments, for instance, Al-Mukhtar Bakery, has been serving up delicious pastries for over 40 years, or Al Afadhil, where a secret kebab recipe has been passed down through generations.
Discover a lush paradise in Kalba city with its newest addition – the Hanging Gardens
The latest attraction to steal the hearts of visitors in Sharjah is Kalba City's Hanging Gardens. Boasting over 1.6 million square feet of botanical beauty, this oasis is home to an astounding 100,000 trees. Nestled within this verdant paradise is The Central Restaurant, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience with breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and picturesque greenery. With something for everyone to enjoy, including children's play zones, mountain climbing routes, and a skaters' arena, this is the ultimate family destination. Visitors can also take a ride on the 820-metre excursion train track, with strategically placed stations for easy access to all the attractions. And for fitness enthusiasts, there's even a running track to keep you active!
Escape into a paradise filled with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls at Sharjah’s newest addition. © Visit Sharjah
Details for your Sharjah trip:
Visa: As an Indian national with a valid passport, you can easily obtain a 14-day single entry visa on arrival for only Rs. 5250. This visa allows you to enter the UAE from any airport, including Sharjah, Dubai, or Abu Dhabi, so you don't need to worry about getting a separate Sharjah tourist visa.
Best time to visit: Plan your trip between November and April when the weather in Sharjah is at its best. The cool breeze and pleasant temperatures make it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Etiquette: When in Sharjah, it's important to dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection. Keep in mind that during Ramadan, it is considered disrespectful to wear Emirati national clothes or eat, drink, or smoke in public from sunrise to sunset. Additionally, be mindful of gender proprieties and always show respect when visiting an Emirati home.
Best way to travel: With Sharjah being only 4 hours away from major Indian cities like New Delhi and Mumbai, the most convenient and affordable way to travel is by plane. You can easily find direct flights from popular airlines such as Air Arabia, Air India, and IndiGo, with roundtrip fares starting at just Rs. 20,000.
You simply have to experience Sharjah for yourself. This place is an absolute gem just waiting to be discovered, and it's only a 4-hour flight away from India! Can you imagine strolling through ancient cultural marvels one minute, and then the next, you're diving into mouth-watering flavours that have been perfected over generations? Talk about a journey for all your senses.
It's time you made your way to this cultural hot spot and created some epic Middle Eastern tales of your own!
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In association with Visit Sharjah
