Sharjah

Info

Quick Facts about Sharjah

• Location: Northern UAE, bordered by Dubai and Ajman
• Area: Approximately 2,590 km²
• Population: About 1.5 million (as of 2023)
• Official Language: Arabic (English is also widely spoken)
• Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
• Climate: Hot desert climate, with mild winters and very hot, humid summers

Key Highlights of Sharjah

1. Cultural and Historical Heritage

• Al Qasba: A bustling cultural hub with art galleries, theaters, restaurants, and a canal lined with outdoor cafes. The Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the city.
• Heart of Sharjah: A large heritage area with beautifully restored buildings, traditional souks, museums, and art galleries showcasing the emirate’s history and culture.
• Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Features an extensive collection of Islamic artifacts, including manuscripts, Islamic art, scientific instruments, and Islamic calligraphy.

2. Museums and Art

• Sharjah Art Museum: The largest art museum in the Gulf region, it houses both permanent and rotating exhibitions, including works by local and international artists.
• Sharjah Archaeology Museum: This museum showcases archaeological findings from Sharjah and the UAE, displaying artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age.
• Al Noor Island: A cultural destination with art installations, gardens, and the Butterfly House, home to exotic butterfly species.

3. Family-Friendly Destinations

• Sharjah Aquarium and Maritime Museum: Explore underwater life native to the Arabian Gulf, followed by a visit to the maritime museum, which highlights the region’s seafaring history.
• Al Montazah Parks: An amusement and water park that offers rides, water slides, and family activities, perfect for all ages.
• Sharjah Desert Park: This park is home to the Arabian Wildlife Centre, showcasing native wildlife species like Arabian leopards, oryx, and gazelles.

4. Natural Attractions

• Kalba: Located on Sharjah’s east coast, this area features a mangrove forest, bird-watching sites, and beautiful sandy beaches. Kalba is known for its ecotourism and scenic kayaking spots.
• Al Majaz Waterfront: A scenic waterfront with a musical fountain, walking trails, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions. It’s a popular place for picnics and enjoying views of the Khalid Lagoon.
• Khor Fakkan: A coastal town on the Gulf of Oman, known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and coral reefs, making it ideal for water sports and hiking.

5. Education and Cultural Initiatives

• Sharjah International Book Fair: One of the largest book fairs in the world, it promotes reading and hosts authors and publishers from around the globe.
• Sharjah Biennial: A prestigious art event that brings artists from around the world to showcase contemporary works in visual arts.
• American University of Sharjah (AUS) and University of Sharjah (UOS): Renowned universities attracting students from the region and beyond.

6. Shopping and Souks

• Blue Souk (Central Souk): A famous marketplace for traditional jewelry, carpets, handicrafts, and souvenirs in a distinctive blue-tiled building.
• Souk Al Arsah: One of the UAE’s oldest markets, this souk has traditional shops selling antiques, perfumes, handicrafts, and spices.

Interesting Facts about Sharjah

• UNESCO Recognition: Sharjah was named the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World” by UNESCO in 1998 and the “World Book Capital” in 2019.
• Conservative Values: Sharjah follows conservative customs and enforces stricter social norms, including a ban on alcohol.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a focus on family values, Sharjah offers various parks, museums, and attractions designed for family enjoyment.

Sharjah stands out for its dedication to culture, tradition, and family values, making it a unique emirate within the UAE. Its combination of rich heritage, art, family-friendly attractions, and natural beauty attracts both residents and tourists who seek a quieter and more culturally enriching experience.