The Arab world’s cultural capital, a major commercial hub and a growing centre for health and education—Sharjah dons many hats. It might be the only dry emirate, but its pages of history are brimming with tales of rich heritage, which the modern metropolis still manages to hold on. Thinking of making a trip? Here’s an itinerary to help you get started.
How to reach Sharjah?
- By air: Sharjah International Airport is the nearest airport, located 13 km away from the south-east of Sharjah. IndiGo operates 28 weekly, non-stop flights to Sharjah from Lucknow, Hyderabad, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram.
- Getting around/local transport in Sharjah: Buses and taxis are the most common and convenient means of transportation in Sharjah
Places to visit
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Al Noor Mosque
Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah is a stunning architectural marvel, offering visitors a glimpse into Islamic culture and heritage.
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation
Exploration time: 1-3 hours
Al Majaz Waterfront
Exploration time: 2-4 hours
Sharjah Aquarium
Exploration time: 2-4 hours
Al Qasba
Exploration time: 2-4 hoursPlaces to eat
Experience Sharjah's culinary diversity, from traditional Emirati cuisine to international flavours, served in charming cafes, elegant restaurants, and bustling markets.
Shababeek
In Arabic, the name of the restaurant translates to ‘window’, for its intention is to introduce the guests to authentic Lebanese cuisine. Expect a mix of traditional and modern dishes on the menu—from mezze platters to charcoal-grilled specialities.
Popular dishes: Grilled meats, seafood platters, biryanis, and Arabic desserts
Gazebo
At any point, if you begin to miss the Indian flavours, remember you’re never too far away. Gazebo brings the recipes from the royal kitchens of Lucknow and Hyderabad to Sharjah. So, whether it is delicious seekh kebabs or dum phukt biryani, the restaurant keeps you covered (while making your mouth water).
Popular dishes: Biryanis, kebabs, butter chicken, and gulab jamun
Aroos Damascus
Head here for the perfect fix of a no-frills, easy-on-the-pocket Arabian meal. Start with the lentil soup, dig into a bowl of hummus, pair it with grilled quails or lamb chops, and nosh on a plate of shawarma. Doesn’t get any better!
Popular dishes: Shawarma, kebabs, hummus, and baklava
Shakespeare and Co.
A mix of American, English and Lebanese dishes, listed on the menu of this café and bakery are just delicious. Think indulgent breakfast spreads, sweet and savoury crepes, and several healthy options including gluten-free bread and pasta.
Popular dishes: Quiches, crepes, variety of teas, and desserts
Things To Do
There are many things to do in Sharjah, most of which include the following:
Nature walks
Architectural tours
Historical sites
Shopping trips
Museum exploration
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Sharjah is during the winter months, from November to March when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities.
Most commonly spoken languages
The most commonly spoken languages in Sharjah are Arabic and English, with Arabic being the official language and English widely used in business and tourism.
Shopping
Shopping in Sharjah is tax-free, so be sure to make the most of it. There are many famous shopping hubs in the city such as:
- Souk Al-Markazi: A shopper’s paradise, the Souk Al-Markazi or Blue Souk is Sharjah’s iconic shopping hub that caters to every need. Two buildings, interconnected by bridges, together make up its grand complex, which houses over 600 shops selling everything from jewellery and perfumes to rugs and pashminas. The best part: you can bargain at any souk to strike a good deal.
- Souk Al-Arsah: Located in the heritage area, Souk Al-Arsah or Courtyard Souk is one of the oldest marketplaces in the city. Visit this for antique handicrafts, wooden Arabic bridal and pearl chests, copper coffee pots, medicinal herbs, and many such curries.
- Sahara Centre: Among the largest shopping complexes in the city, Sahara Centre on Al Nahda Street offers a range of shopping outlets, restaurants and entertainment hubs. It also houses an exclusive gaming zone called Adventureland and a popular multiplex.
- Al Qasba: Al Qasba is a vibrant waterfront destination offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. While it’s known for its beautiful canals and Ferris wheel, it also features various boutiques, art galleries, and cultural centres.
Festivals
Experience Sharjah's vibrant festival scene, featuring cultural celebrations, artistic showcases, and lively events that highlight the city's rich heritage and diversity.
Sharjah Light Festival
A dazzling spectacle illuminating the city's landmarks with vibrant light displays, celebrating art, culture, and innovation.
Sharjah Heritage Days
Showcasing Emirati traditions, crafts, and cuisine, this festival offers insights into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Sharjah International Book Fair
A literary extravaganza attracting authors, publishers, and book lovers from around the world, featuring book signings, panel discussions, and workshops.
Sharjah Water Festival
An aquatic celebration featuring water sports competitions, beachside activities, and family-friendly entertainment, highlighting the city's coastal charm and maritime culture.
More reasons to visit
The city of Sharjah is stunning, with so much to see and do, some of the more interesting reasons to visit Sharjah are:
- Sharjah Aquarium: Peek into the hidden world of the deep sea at Sharjah Aquarium, where you can watch blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays and jellyfish in action.
- Eye of the Emirates Wheel: For spectacular views of the city’s skyline, and even the Gulf coast stretching to Dubai, hop on board the Eye of the Emirates Wheel, which takes you 60m high in the sky.
Visa and Immigration
