Originally posted 2022-03-29 18:55:44.
Despite sharing a border with Dubai, unfortunately in most cases travelers pay no attention to Sharjah. I actually feel bad for Sharjah as honestly speaking there’s lots of places to visit in Sharjah and it’s also cheaper than Dubai particularly in terms of food and accommodation as well. I can’t say that Sharjah is a city rich in skyscrapers and luxury 5-stars hotels as you see in Dubai. As opposed to Dubai, Sharjah even today proudly holds the traditional values of Islamic civilization and traditional Arabic culture values. So be ready to see beautiful mosques and awe-inspiring culture museums along with its nature spots. Having said that, Sharjah doesn’t rotate around art and history only. In the last few years, Sharjah tourism has been boasting and added a number of new tourist attractions to acquire tourists. Consequently now Some places in Sharjah are a thousand times more stunning than Dubai. Although some of these Sharjah tourist places cost nothing , others hit you up for a small amount. Yet, before considering visiting Sharjah, you should know that Sharjah doesn’t have the lavish metro trains. However, you’d not have to compromise on public transport in Sharjah since it has secure and modern buses with comfortable seats. Anyway, the following 25 are the best places to visit in Sharjah.
Major Tourist Attractions in Sharjah
Al Qasba
When it comes to the most prominent tourist attraction in Sharjah, Al Qasba surely stands out. City wide recognition of Al Qasba comes because of its water canal and availability of a number of other family-friendly tourist attractions. Al Qasba is actually segregated from Al Majaz District by Al Khan Corniche Street. It has a great diversity of commercial and cuisine options in addition to waterside entertainment which boosts the attractiveness. It’s comparatively similar to Dubai Marina. Aside, Every weekend Al Qasba hosts musical fountain shows which begin at 05:00 pm and continue to take place till 12:30 am. Maraya Art Center, Al Qasba Theater and Eye of the Emirates ferries wheel are other tourist attractions in Al Qasba.
Al Noor Island
Lies in the Khalid Lagoon, Al Noor Island is probably the most famous but small island that covers an area about 3.5 km. Lies in the Khalid Lagoon, Al Noor Island is probably the most famous but small island that covers an area about 3.5 km. Consisting of a butterfly house, modern art, a book pavilion, a cafe & a playground, Al Noor Island is among the main family attractions in Sharjah. You don’t need to hire any boat service to reach Al Noor Island as it’s easily accessible through a pedestrian bridge. It was constructed back in December 2015 to give a boost to Sharjah tourism and to convert the emirates into an entirely different world. Sharjah city’s views from Al Noor Island are stunning. However, It’s a paid island and the entry fee is AED 35/Adult and AED 20/ child.
Sharjah Rain Room
Do you’ve 15 minutes to enjoy yourself in the middle of nothing but darkness and the rain? Do you love silhouettes? Sharjah rain room is an excellent way to experience the silhouette effect while standing in the rainfall. What makes it unique is no other Middle East country has this excursion. Located in Sharjah art foundation, Rain Room Sharjah is a unique thing to do that lets you experience the moisture uphill and hear the sound of rain through a watery stream without being wet. Indeed, Rain room Sharjah is wonderful for kids and photography lovers. The ticket price is 25 AED for an individual and 15 AED for students and teachers (must bring ID).
Adventureland
Spreading an area of 70,000 square feet, Adventureland is the biggest family amusement park in the Gulf countries. Based in the Sahara Centre, Adventureland features a total of 17 superb rides aside from over 70 unique thrilling games. It also comes with the motor coaster ride that sets it stay ahead of other parks in the region. Even though It’s not crowded as you often deal with at Dubai amusement parks, It’s still better to go early since the lines are much shorter and the climate is also enjoyable. Jungle explorers,jungle explorers, safari raiders, kids’ canopy are the best rides for kids. If you’re going with teens ,snap traps., rocket cycles, Air race and other rides are to choose from.
Adventureland Sharjah price is different. On weekdays entry costs 60 aed while AED 75 on weekends.
Sharjah Aquarium
If you’ve been living in Dubai for a while, most likely you have already visited the Dubai mall Aquarium. Though it’s not 100% similar, Sharjah Aquarium tickets are considerably less than Dubai mall, therefore it’s surely worth exploring out. Similar to other aquariums, It’s cautiously and magnificently designed with 20 tanks that have over 250 species including marine animals like sea horses, sea snakes, sharks, eels, turtles, stingrays, coral reefs and rock pools, lagoons and mangroves are just names of few. Sharjah aquarium is also attainable through ferry service from Dubai. So, if you’re heading from Dubai, don’t overlook this option.
Its ticket cost is only 25 aed for adults and 15 aed for children (2 to 12 years). If you’re at least 6 people, you can even get a further 10 aed per head discount.
Khor Fakkan
Sharjah isn’t just about culture, yet it’s also about exploring the incredible nature the Sharjah is offering. Khorfakkan is blessed with exceptional natural beauty. This amazing area in the east coast of Sharjah is a perfect weekend gateway not from Sharjah, but Dubai and other Emirates as well. With about 40,000 inhabitants, Khor Fakkan is regarded as the biggest town in Sharjah. Viewed as a future potential tourism destination, the UAE federal government has been executing work noticeably in this town. Not long ago, waterfall was installed here. Apart from that, Shees park is now open to the public. It also has a stunning beach and dam. Reaching here from Dubai is not difficult since now some tour companies offer Khor Fakkan tours from Dubai. Moreover, It’s encompassed by the Hajar mountains that goes to Oman territory.
Sharjah Desert Park
It is one of the most amazing places in Sharjah for wildlife lovers. It is one of the most amazing places in Sharjah for wildlife lovers. Stretching out 16 square kilometers wide, It features over 100,000 African trees. Furthermore, at Sharjah safari park, a substantial amount of attractions to delight in for childrens. It features a natural history, botanical museum and childrens farm as well. Some of the most desired creatures that can be viewed at Sharjah Safari Park are Arabia’s wildlife center and zoo with assorted reptiles, birds, Animals and insects. When you’re in Sharjah, visiting Sharjah safari park is definitely worth the visit. If it’s feasible, pick a non-sunny day to experience the best of Sharjah safari park.
Sharjah safari park tickets are sold in three different versions, gold, silver, and bronze. The cheapest one is Bronze ticket that lets you stay in the Safari park for upto three and included is ‘Into Africa’. This ticket costs AED for kids between 3-12 years and AED 40 for over 12 years.
Al Majaz Waterfront
One of the popular picnic spots in the center of Sharjah, Al Majaz waterfront park is a serene place to spend some time with your friends. It’s also rich in activities such as boating, cycling, kids’ rides and others. Al Majaz waterfront’s prime location permits you to view Sharjah skyscrapers, the green gardens, the fountains, the clear blue water creek while having a dinner at any restaurants. Covering an area of 231,000 square feet, Al Majaz Waterfront Park was unveiled in 2010 and then further went through an AED 100 million reconstruction. Renovation added dozens of new slides and 53,000 sq ft area that enable it to accommodate upto 1000 cars in its parking spaces.
Major Museums in Sharjah
Note: According to some online information, It seems that since december 2021, all sharjah museums entry fee has been waived by the Sharjah Government. However, I couldn’t validate it personally. Hence, I’ll mention the price with each museum if applicable.
Sharjah Science Museum
Aside from preserving the past, Sharjah additionally moved forward towards science and technology. Science museum was Inaugurated in 1996 and today it is the best science learning platform filled with several science illusions experiments, making it a perfect tourist spot for kids. It has multiple science relevant recreational activities as an example optical illusions, hot air balloons, forward motion, plasma, electrical energy creation, Mathematics magics, a documentary on Astronauts etc. What’s even better, At Sharjah Science museum, you’re able to make your own cartoons, puzzles regarding the human body, and analyze body strength too. If you’re curious to visit this Science museum, I personally suggest you merge your trip with Sharjah Archaeology museum visit as both of them are adjacent.
Kids between 2 to 12 years, entry fee is 5 AED while for over 13 year is 10 AED.
Sharjah National Museum
Usually overlooked, Sharjah National museum goes over a huge area of 630,000 sq. meters. It has to be on your list to learn about the homogeneity between the conventional Arab architecture and modern-day European styles. Though it’s a most suitable place for adults, If you’re hunting for a day out with kids, Sharjah National museum should not be on your list.
Sharjah Classic Cars Museum
If you adore IG-worthy background scenes with classic cars, Sharjah classic cars museum is here to fill instagram feed. It is filled with multi-brands vintage cars, making it the right place to check out an amazing collection of cars – early 1900s. The most ancient car in the collection – a Dodge – goes back to 1915.
Sharjah Museum Of Islamic Civilization
Those who are motivated to study Islamic history and its relevance to the Middle East, This Sharjah Islamic civilization museum wouldn’t let them down. This spectacular two floors buliding filled with 5000 artifacts of the Muslim world and document progress on the growth of Islamic culture. It retains centuries old Abbasid and Umayyad times silver dinars and dirhams coin collection in addition to zodiac mosaics. Zero-cost WiFi is also out there in the vicinity of Sharjah Islamic Civilization museum. If you’re coming from Dubai, It wouldn’t take over 30-minutes by bus assuming that you will grab the bus from Union Terminal.
Museum Entrance Fees:
Children under 2 years: Free
Children from 2 to 12 years: AED 5
Adults 13+ years: AED 10
Sharjah Fort Museum
If you still can’t get enough of the previously discussed historical museum , pay a visit to the Sharjah fort. When compared with Al Fahidi fort in Dubai, Sharjah fort looks considerably modern. Even though there isn’t any 100% verification regarding Sharjah fort construction date, It is widely assumed it was developed approximately in 1820. This centuries old traditional defense tower was restored in 2015 into its current shape. In addition to the Prominent artifacts , it features an old Quran stand that is supposed to belong to the ruler Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi.
Sharjah Fort Entrance Fees:
Children under 2 years: Free
Children from 2 to 12 years: AED 5
Adults 13+ years: AED 10
Sharjah Heritage Museum
When it comes to listing the best culture and historical places in Sharjah, I definitely can’t overlook Sharjah heritage area in the list. Located close to Corniche and in the Heart of Sharjah, this museum comes with a significant amount of activities for history lovers. Sharjah heritage is among those famous places in Sharjah where you will find every aspect of Emirati tradition, from spiritual traditions to surviving in the desert. Ticket prices differ for children and adults. For Childrens between between 2 to 12 years is AED 10 while above 13 years old is AED 10.
Sharjah Arts Museum
Sharjah is a central source of Art in the UAE. There’s no reason you miss Sharjah arts museum when you’re in Sharjah. The Sharjah Art Museum was inaugurated in 1997 and at that time it was the first purpose-built art museum in the Gulf region. This three-storey Sharjah art museum today carries over 4000 titles printed in Arabic, English, and various other languages, in addition to an archive of graphic and audio materials. As you get onto the first floor, You’ll be astonished with a collection of Arab artists’ artworks. The museum features artworks of many Arab countries most notably Syria, Palestine, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Sudan and Yemen.
Sharjah Archaeology Museum
Perfectly placed behind Sharjah television building, Sharjah archaeology museum is known as a treasury for all those art and culture buffs who’re seeking an opportunity to boost their understanding about UAE historical art and culture. This museum exhibits the historical past of the UAE region. You’ll find out about the Arab civilizations and how Arabs particularly UAE progressed from the stone age to today through the artifacts, coins, jewellry, pottery and ancient weapons. Entry cost is only AED 10.
The Aviation Museum Sharjah
While I’ve already discussed a few Sharjah museums , it sometimes might be worth considering others as each of these museums has a different taste. It was constructed by the Ruler of Sharjah in 1932 after an agreement with the British. As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated to Aviation. If you’re interested in aircraft, it is the best option especially as there are all types aircrafts. It even displays jets dating back to the early 1900s.
Historical Attractions in Sharjah
Being a proudly cultural city, There are plenty of historical places in Sharjah. Listed below are few, so you enjoy the best of Sharjah.
Heart of Sharjah
Acknowledged as World Heritage sites by UNESCO back in 2014, Heart of Sharjah is the most important heritage site in Sharjah. Another interesting thing about the heart of Sharjah is the Al Bait Hotel. This traditional-style small building represents 1950s accommodation. Similar to the 1950s period, Al Bait Hotel construction is made of coral stones and mud. However, over the years, It received renovation and new modern era facilities have been installed.
The Buried Village
If you wish to escape from Sharjah city, head over to this isolated village. A palace in the center of the desert with many mystery misconceptions is exactly what The Buried Village is. It’s also referred to as the ghost village. Located east of the town of Al Madam, The Buried Village is a town where all houses and a mosque went abandoned back in the late 1970s. Tour activities like quad bike, ATV and buggies are around for rent in the neighborhood camps. Additionally it is a pretty spot for sunset views. This spot is simply reachable from the main highway on E44 and E55 near the Al Lahbab roundabout.
Blue Souk
If Dubai has Deira market to purchase gold textile, perfume or spices etc, Sharjah also has blue souk. It’s very similar to Gold souq dear. You’re able to purchase jewelry, perfumes, garments like Abya, footwear and almost every daily routine item. Apart from trading, it’s also one of the best places in Sharjah for taking pictures for Instagram given that its exterior design is incredibly appealing.
Al Badayer Oasis
If you’ve modest understanding of geography, I’m confident you’ve already read about the Silk road. Visiting Al badayer oasis will give you exactly the same feelings as when you travel along the silk road. Capturing 24,000 sq. m desert, Al badayer osais is a scenic desert spot developed by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority to further improve the ec-tourism in Sharjah in a luxurious way.
Al Noor Mosque
Located in Buhaira corniche, Al Noor mosque design is based on the Turkey Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Hence, Visiting Al Noor mosque in Sharjah makes you feel like you are in Turkey. It was constructed in the Ottoman empire regime. Now This mosque is a classic, legendary, symbol of Sharjah. Al Noor mosque’s attractiveness and Ottoman empire connection caught the attention of the tourists and Sharjah residents. Additionally, Al Noor mosque interior is etched with complicated calligraphy of verses from the Holy Quran. It’s undeniably a perfect alternative to Dubai Jumeirah mosque and Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zeyad mosque.
Al Noor Mosque Sharjah
Random Attractions in Sharjah
Kalba
Small eco-tourism destination situated between Sharjah & Fujairah, Kalba comes with many things such as wildlife spotting while trekking, kayaking, in addition to scuba diving. Mostly travel visit Kalba to see the Arabian oryx, the national animal of the UAE.
Buhaira Corniche
Stretching along Khaled Lake, Buhaira Corniche is about 7 km of picturesque and relaxing path with jogging trail and biking paths. It’s encompassed by well-known landmarks including Al Majaz Waterfront and also Al Noor Island in close proximity.
Souq Al Jubail
Located just off the Sharjah corniche, One stop marketplace for vegetables, meat, fish. Of course it’s not a must to visit or buy something but if you’ve spare time, you can pay a visit to Souq al Jubail.
