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The following outlines notable tourist attractions in Sharjah, highlighting their key features and important information.
Sharjah’s museums stand out as some of the emirate’s most significant and captivating tourist attractions, prompting the establishment of the Sharjah Museums Authority. Renowned for their diverse topics and invaluable exhibits, Sharjah Emirate boasts 16 museums, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
Among these museums are Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi, a former residence and seat of government; Bait Al Naboodah, a prime example of a coastal home belonging to the prominent pearl merchant Obaid bin Eissa bin Ali Al Shamsi, known as Al Naboodah; Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), built of coastal stone and providing insights into the modern history of Sharjah and its ruling family; and Hisn Khorfakkan which exhibits artefacts from the east coast region.
Other museums include the Sharjah Maritime Museum, which displays traditional ships and pearls retrieved from the depths of the sea; the Sharjah Aquarium, featuring over 100 species of marine life; the Sharjah Science Museum, designed to engage kids and families in scientific exploration; and the Sharjah Discovery Centre, which uniquely blends education and entertainment, catering to children aged 3 to 12.
Additionally, The Sharjah Archaeology Museum houses artefacts that trace human habitation in the region to over 125,000 years ago. The Sharjah Heritage Museum, on the other hand, focuses on the ancient culture of Sharjah and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aiming to preserve and celebrate heritage. Moreover, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization boasts a vast collection of over 5,000 pieces from various Islamic countries, showcasing the greatness of Islamic civilization and history.
For enthusiasts of Arabic calligraphy, the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum’s displays are full of paintings and different calligraphy styles from creative local and international artists. As for the Sharjah Art Museum, it hosts exhibitions and programs showcasing artistic works, while Al Mahatta Museum educates visitors on the history of aviation in the UAE and the region, complete with displays of vintage aircraft.
Another museum is Al Eslah School Museum. It was once a functioning school before being transformed into a museum dedicated to introducing the country’s past education system to those interested. The museum allows visitors to explore its old facilities, including boards, classrooms, photographs, and more. Lastly, the Resistance Monument, shaped like a warrior’s helmet, was created as a tribute to the brave people of Khorfakkan for defending their city against the Portuguese in 1507.
The Sharjah Safari is the largest safari outside of Africa, is located within Al Bardi Reserve in the city of Al Dhaid and spans an area of 8 square kilometres. Inaugurated in 2022 at an estimated cost of nearly one billion AED, this Safari offers visitors an immersive experience to encounter wildlife from the African continent closely.
The place houses over 50,000 animals representing 120 species native to Africa, including reptiles, birds, and mammals, some of which are endangered. Among the animals found in Sharjah Safari include lemurs, Dorcas gazelle, Nile crocodiles, rock hyraxes, plains zebras, and ankole-watusi cattle.
As for birds, there are over 60 species housed by the Sharjah Safari, ranging from the lesser flamingo and Madagascar teal to local varieties like the bee-eaters, Arabian grey shrike, Indian roller, black-winged stilt, and heron. Moreover, the safari features distinctive tree species, such as the towering baobab tree, washingtonia, and acacia tortilis.
It is important to highlight that Al Dhaid City, situated in the central region of the emirate and home to the Sharjah Safari, also hosts Al Dhaid Wildlife Centre. This centre is part of the emirate’s projects concerning environmental diversity, with a focus on educating visitors about the desert environment and Bedouin life through advanced interactive technologies.
Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in preserving regional wildlife and biodiversity through various environmental initiatives.
The Buhais Geological Park was opened in 2020 to highlight the geological significance of Jebel Buhais (Mount Buhais) and the surrounding regions in Sharjah. This park stands out for the fossils and landmarks that date back millions of years. Its walkways allow the visitors to understand how the most important geological features in the region were formed, like Al Hajar Mountains, sand dunes, and gravel plains. Additionally, the park encompasses two archaeological sites that signify human presence in the area for over 125,000 years.
Notably, the park provides guidance for visitors in both Arabic and English and offers amenities, including a gift shop, restaurant, and mosque. Visitors can also engage in workshops and events tailored for various age groups, enriching their overall experience.
Al Majaz Waterfront, often referred to as the "heart of the city," pulsates with vibrant energy and offers entertainment that appeals to all visitors to Sharjah. Located near Khalid Lagoon, it is distinguished by its captivating views and a range of amenities suitable for people of all ages.
With a variety of dining options, cafes, green spaces, and kid playgrounds, Al Majaz Waterfront ensures a welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of offered activities, including watching light and music shows at the Sharjah Fountain, playing mini golf, visiting the water park, riding bicycles or the small train, and taking a traditional dhow boat tour around the Buhaira Corniche.
It is worth mentioning that Al Majaz Waterfront hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year that attract tourists and visitors from the region. Additionally, it offers public services and facilities such as free Wi-Fi and parking spaces.
Al Qasba, nestled along both sides of a water canal in Al Majaz area, seamlessly combines entertainment and culture. It hosts cultural events, art exhibitions at the Maraya Art Centre, children’s play areas, and a variety of local and upscale restaurants. Being a car-free zone, visitors can leisurely explore by renting bicycles, taking abra rides, or opting for eco-friendly electric water karts.
Al Noor Island is a standout family destination in Sharjah, renowned for its serene atmosphere and stunning nature overlooking Khalid Lagoon. Accessible via a pedestrian bridge, this car-free island offers attractions such as the Butterfly House, featuring over 500 species of butterflies for close-up viewing; the Literature Pavilion, where visitors are immersed in a cultural atmosphere amidst nature; and unique art installations like the OVO sculpture, known for its egg-like design and vibrant light shows.
This island is thoughtfully equipped with convenient facilities, including the Noor Cafe, serving delightful varieties of beverages and cuisine, in addition to play areas where young visitors can enjoy playtime amidst the natural surroundings.
The first of its kind in the Middle East region, the Islamic Botanical Garden is dedicated to showcasing plants mentioned in the Holy Quran and the prophetic Sunnah. It features 52 types, including figs, saffron, pomegranates, basil, and citron. The Garden is located at interchange 9, 30 kilometres east of Sharjah City, along Al Dhaid Highway (E88).
In addition to viewing the plants, visitors can engage in various garden activities, such as strolling, interacting with exhibitions and touchscreens at the translation centre, experiencing cuisine prepared from garden produce, and reading botanical books in the library.
The Sharjah Art Foundation introduced the Rain Room to the Middle East and the Arab world for the first time with the help of the London-based studio Random International. This creative installation features motion sensors that pause the rain where visitors stand while it continues to fall around them, creating the illusion of being in a perpetual rainstorm.
Al Madam Buried Village, situated in Al Ghuraifa region approximately 2 kilometres southwest of Al Madam area, is the remnants of a small village abandoned in the late 1990s and subsequently buried by desert sands. Today, this site has become a destination for exploration enthusiasts, adventurers, and photographers.
The markets in Sharjah are a major draw for tourists, offering them a chance to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying shopping experiences. Among these, Central Souk is particularly noteworthy, being one of the UAE’s largest and most significant markets.
Renowned for its exterior design, interior displays, and diverse range of goods inside its shops, Central Souk stands as an iconic landmark in the emirate. Its structure comprises two long buildings connected by internal bridges.
Inside, the market boasts over 600 shops offering a wide variety of goods, with a notable reputation for its handmade products like Persian rugs. Visitors can also find a diverse selectionof items, including jewellery and watches. The market is located between King Faisal Road and Khalid Lagoon, near Al Ittihad Square.
Other notable markets in Sharjah include Souq Saqr, renowned for its spices, incense, and various products; Textile Souq, known for its excellent fabric shops; Souq Al Shanasiyah, ideal for purchasing gifts and souvenirs; and Souq Al Arsah, recognized as one of the oldest and largest markets in the UAE, offering antiques, souvenirs, and other goods.
Additionally, visitors can explore Souq Al Jubail, known for its fish and fresh produce; Souk Sharq in Khorfakkan, with a radiating atmosphere of traditional heritage; the Date Souq, offering a wide range of local and imported date varieties; and the Rolla Gold Market, a must- visit for jewellery enthusiasts, housing the largest jewellery shops in Sharjah.
Big Red, located about 65 kilometres southeast of Sharjah City centre in Al Badayer desert, is a massive sand dune renowned for attracting car and bike sports enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in desert exploration, camping amidst nature, and exhilarating dune driving experiences with SUVs or bikes.
Located near Mleiha, about an hour from Sharjah city, Fossil Rock is a natural limestone outcrop nestled among the sand dunes, positioned between Jebel Mleiha and Camel Rock. This desert landmark is a hub for outdoor activities, drawing visitors for hiking, dune driving, and nature walks amidst its breathtaking scenery. Additionally, this rock formation is rich in marine fossils, serving as evidence that the area was once a seabed around 70 million years ago.
The Mleiha area, home to Fossil Rock, stands as one of the UAE’s significant archaeological sites and is a UNESCO nominee for World Heritage Site. Beyond Fossil Rock, visitors can explore other attractions such as XQuarry Off-Road Adventure Park for thrilling off-road experiences, Sky Adventures for soaring 5,000 feet above the ground, and the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which organises desert adventures and provides facilities for visitors to the area.
The Nahwa Enclave, part of the emirate of Sharjah, sits uniquely within Madha, an Omani territory entirely surrounded by the UAE. The enclave features vast date palm plantations set against mountains and rocky peaks, with a water channel flowing through. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, strolling through farms, desert biking, mountain climbing, and camping. The enclave is located 138 kilometres east of Sharjah City and 16 kilometres southwest of Khorfakkan.
Located near the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, this coastal town is a serene tourist destination known for its peaceful atmosphere. It features an old fort, traditional markets, mosques, and abundant palm trees, exuding a charming traditional vibe.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls around town, visit mosques, and explore the market. For a memorable experience, they can visit Dibba Al-Hisn port to observe fishermen selling their catch or embark on a coastal boat ride for dolphin spotting.
Najd Al Maqsar village, situated atop the mountain peaks in the historical city of Khorfakkan, is a significant heritage site in the emirate of Sharjah. It stands out as a prominent centre of ancient human settlement in Wadi Washi, where archaeologists have uncovered rock carvings depicting horses and camels dating back to around 2000 BCE. The village comprises 13 old houses constructed from stones and clay, with an estimated age of approximately 100 years.
Today, these historical houses have been transformed into luxurious accommodations, alongside an ancient fortress that used to protect the village for nearly 300 years.
Sharjah’s coastal areas, overlooking both the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf, feature several renowned beaches. These popular tourist spots offer a range of activities, from water sports and swimming to relaxation and leisurely strolls.
First, there is Khorfakkan Beach, known for its crescent moon shape spanning 3 kilometres. It offers its visitors a range of activities, including boating, diving, water sports, and fishing. There is also Al Khan Beach, which is ideal for families. It stands out for its convenient proximity to the Sharjah Aquarium and the Maritime Museum. For those seeking tranquillity, Al Luluyah Beach in Khorfakkan offers a serene setting that is equipped for camping and family outings.
Al Hamriyah Beach is notable for its inclusive facilities, catering to people with disabilities and ensuring everyone can enjoy the shoreline. Al Mamzar Beach is favoured by rod fishing enthusiasts, while Al Heera Beach, overlooking the Arabian Gulf, claims the title of the longest beach in Sharjah City, stretching 3.5 kilometres. Lastly, visitors to the emirate can unwind at Kalba Corniche Park and Kalba Beach Corniche and immerse themselves in the beach atmosphere.
[1] sharjahmuseums.ae, MUSEUMS
[2] visitsharjah.com, Museum
[3] connectwithnature.ae, ISLAMIC BOTANICAL GARDEN
[4] sharjahart.org, Rainy room
[5] moccae.gov.ae, Al Badayer Desert and Big Red
[6] mcy.gov.ae, Dibba Al-Hisn location
[7] worldscoolestwinter.ae, Najd Al-Maqsar Village
[8] moec.gov.ae, Major Tourist Attractions in the UAE
[9] u.ae, Emirate of Sharjah
[10] u.ae, Sharjah Tourism Vision 2021
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