Sharjah Classic Car Museum: a unique collection of vintage cars

The museum proudly features a collection of about 100 vintage cars from the early 20th century, complemented by rare classic bicycles and motorcycles. Visitors can explore these exhibits up close, delving into their unique history and craftsmanship.

Reflecting Sharjah’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, the museum underwent extensive renovations and reopened in 2013. It now consists of four main sections, including an educational space for visitors. Each section showcases classic cars from various periods, illustrating the evolution of the car industry and the key innovations that shaped it over the years.

First section: early auto

This section highlights the museum’s oldest cars, ranging from 1915 to 1939. One of the key exhibits is the Dodge Brothers Model 30-35 Touring, manufactured in 1915. As the oldest car in the collection, it represents one of Dodge’s earliest models, remarkably preserved in its original state for more than 100 years.

Another distinguished car on display is a 1934 Rolls Royce, owned by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Second section: redefined cars

The cars showcased in this section hail from the post-World War II era, specifically between 1940 and 1959. This period saw a surge in the car industry, with manufacturers prioritising better quality and advanced features. Innovations included more powerful engines, improved fuel efficiency over earlier models, and more affordable prices. Additionally, safety enhancements such as stronger chassis and the introduction of seat belts became a growing focus.

One notable vehicle in the redefined cars section is the British-made Riley, produced between 1948 and 1951. During this brief production period, the company manufactured around 5,000 units.

Third section: new heights of innovation

This section features an exceptional collection of high-performance cars from 1960 to 1987, a transformative era in car design and manufacturing.

A highlight in the third section is the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman, owned by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This car was custom-built exclusively for His Highness, with specifications he selected. The model was crafted upon request, without a mass production line. The displayed car was manufactured in 1969 and was in use from 1970 to 1983.

Fourth section: large vehicles and UAE motoring

The Sharjah Classic Car Museum honours the United Arab Emirates' rich car history with a section dedicated to showcasing vehicles that once traversed the streets during the nation's early years. This collection includes trucks, four-wheel drives, and iconic models from the 1960s and 1970s, such as the Land Rover and Bedford, valued for their ability to handle rugged terrains and unpaved roads. Many of these vehicles also functioned as taxis, providing essential transportation at the time.

The museum also highlights former ambulances, police cars, and fire trucks used in Sharjah. Noteworthy exhibits include a 1981 Mercedes that served as a police patrol car and a 1985 Mercedes ambulance that operated at Sharjah International Airport.

In conclusion, it is worth mentioning that car enthusiasts will find the Sharjah Classic Car Museum a prime destination. It regularly holds temporary exhibitions where they can showcase their classic cars, adhering to set guidelines and schedules. These events complement the museum's regular initiatives and give visitors a chance to explore vehicles beyond the permanent collection. The museum also features an educational section offering workshops and interactive activities, introducing children to the history and evolution of cars.

To further enhance the experience, the museum uses technology to provide in-depth details about each exhibit. Visitors can scan barcodes beside each car to access information via mobile devices. For those who prefer audio, an optional guide is available.