Population
2,197,200 million people
Language
Arabic
currency
UAE Arabic Dirham
Flight time
11 hours and 17minutes from the UK
time difference
GMT +4 hours
best time to go
Dec-Feb

Introducing Sharjah

A relatively unknown destination, Sharjah is in fact one of the UAE’s hidden gems, which once discovered by travellers soon becomes the primary favourite over luxurious cities such as Dubai. Sharjah provides pretty much everything you need to enjoy the United Arab Emirates to the fullest, from cultural heritage sites to a sizable souq, exciting activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and exceptional beaches to relax and unwind in for a proper beach holiday under the Middle Eastern sun.

Location

With a land area of 2,590 square kilometres, Sharjah is the third biggest and third-most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (1,000 sq mi). Sharjah shares borders with Dubai to the south, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah to the north and east, respectively. In the United Arab Emirates, it is the biggest emirate. It has views of the Gulf of Oman (Indian Ocean) to the east and the Persian Gulf (west), as well as the eastern Sharjah coastal villages of Kalba and Khor Fakkan.

Weather

The greatest season to travel to Sharjah is during the winter, from December to February. Due to the pleasant weather, lack of rain, and low humidity, the season is frequently referred to as the busiest travel period. During this period, the temperature often hovers around 20 degrees Celsius. Travel to the country is however pleasant even in March and April.

Nonetheless, the summer months (May to August) are quite warm and difficult for daytime travel. There is no humidity in Sharjah and the climate is arid. May through August are the hottest months of the year, with highs of 40 to 43 degrees Celsius. It becomes uncomfortable to go sightseeing and engage in outdoor activities when the temperature rises to this level, therefore travel is not highly recommended for touring and exploring.

Cuisine

The cuisine in Sharjah is exquisite, honouring divine dishes of the UAE. Specifically in the winter months, rice, vegetables and wheat are preferred, whilst in the warmer months of the summer camels, goats, lamb and fresh fish are popular.

Some of the favourite dishes include:

Shawarma: a popular street food of succulent meat served in a flatbread or pitta style bread, with vegetables and delicious sauces.

Humus: a wonderful and renowned Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dip of chickpeas served with a sprinkling of olive oil, that traditional Arabic flatbread is dunk into it.

Tabbouleh: a refreshing bulgur and fresh herb salad topped with parsley and sweet finely chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. A Middle Eastern staple side dish for every delicious meal.

Harees: a divine comfort food, this wonderful meal is made from beaten wheat and chicken, and usually served during Ramadan.

History and Culture

Sharjah’s history goes back 5000 years, when it was one of the richest settlements in the Gulf. The town saw some instability in the 16th century as the Portuguese seized territory on the east coast to dominate the trade in spices. Under their direction, the forts at Khor Fakkan, Kalba, and Dibba were created. The Dutch thereafter tried to rule the region for the same purpose. The arrival of the British in the area and their subsequent trade with the Qawasim, the ancestors of the current royal family of Sharjah, marked the city’s turning point in the 17th century. With the establishment of the UAE, the British presence in the city came to an official end. Sharjah joined the United Arab Emirates as a founding member on December 2nd, 1971.

Family

A trip to Sharjah with the family boasts many exciting activities to enjoy and create wonderful memories. On your travels visit the Sharjah Aquarium which features 20 different tanks that recreate various aquatic environments, from stunning coral reefs and impressive rock pools to lagoons and delightful mangroves. You will also have the chance to experience these aquatic wonders up close through the walkway. If you would like to delve into the history of the city, take your family to the Natual History and Botanical Museum, which is home to fossils, meteorites, taxidermy and unique animals. Similarly, the Botanical gardens includes over 100 distinct species of flora. Whilst in the vicinity do visit the Sharjah Desert Park that includes a petting zoo and several endangered species.

A destination where history and art prevail, Arabian traditions are preserved and celebrated, and beaches abound with picturesque vistas boasting tranquillity and understated luxury, Sharjah is quintessentially emirate.

Highlights of Sharjah

Sharjah Art Museum
This cutting-edge facility, which was one of the largest art museums in the United Arab Emirates when it opened in 1997, houses both a large collection of art pieces and a schedule of changing exhibitions. The galleries, which span three floors, concentrate on the creations of Arab artists throughout the Arab world.
Mleiha Archaeological Site
One of the greatest locations to go in the UAE to learn about the rich history of the Middle East is the Mleiha Archaeological Site near Sharjah. The museum and tourist centre at Mleiha, which is located near the site's entrance, provides a full overview of the area's heritage and culture, amidst impressive landscapes and spectacular vistas.
Sharjah Natural History Museum and Botanical Garden
The Islamic Botanical Garden is the other prominent attraction in Sharjah Desert Park. In this verdant area, 52 plant species that are all mentioned in the Qur'an are planted alongside other plants like saffron and pomegranate. A complete overview of the UAE's flora, fauna, and geological history is also presented at the Sharjah Natural History Museum.
Khor Fakkan
The second-largest city on the east coast and a coastal spot of Sharjah is Khor Fakkan. It's 109 miles (160 kilometres) east of Sharjah. Although the bustling, less than gorgeous port city is the town's most notable feature, it is surrounded by a significant amount of gorgeous sandy beach that stretches out along the shore. Perfect for a relaxing day, strolling the coast and taking in the fresh sea breeze.
Sharjah Natural History Museum and Desert Park
This is a superb museum for the whole family and a great place to learn about the wildlife in the local area.
Qanat Al Qasba
The entire area of Qanat Al Qasba is suitable for tourists. Don’t miss attractions such as the Maraya Art Centre, the Eye of the Emirates wheel, plus the nearby Tawun shopping centre.

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