Sharjah Travel Guide: Museums, Souks and Heritage

Sharjah sits right next to Dubai, but it feels like a different trip: fewer skyscrapers, more museums, restored old quarters and a quieter, family atmosphere. Named UNESCO’s Arab Capital of Culture in 1998 and World Book Capital in 2019, it’s the place to go in the UAE for history, art and Islamic culture, and the highlights fit comfortably into a day trip from Dubai.

Sharjah at a glance

Things to do in Sharjah

Heart of Sharjah and Al Hisn

Start in the restored old town around Al Hisn, the fort that was once the seat of the ruling family. Lanes of traditional coral-stone houses, wind towers and carved wooden doors lead to small heritage museums, cafés and Souq Al Arsah, one of the oldest markets in the country. Mornings are quiet and cool enough for wandering.

Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation

On the Corniche, in a former souk building crowned by a golden mosaic dome, this museum covers Islamic faith, science and art, from astrolabes and early maps to calligraphy, ceramics and textiles. Allow at least two hours: it’s one of the clearest introductions to Islamic culture anywhere in the Gulf.

The arts area

The Sharjah Art Museum and the galleries of Sharjah Art Foundation, spread through restored buildings in the old town, show modern and contemporary art from the Arab world and beyond. The foundation also organises the Sharjah Biennial, a major international art event held roughly every two years.

Rain Room

Run by Sharjah Art Foundation, the Rain Room is a permanent installation where rain pours down all around you but stops wherever you step, thanks to motion sensors. Visits are short and timed, so book a slot before you go.

Central Souk

Known as the Blue Souk for its tiled facade, the Central Souk sells gold, jewellery, carpets, antiques and souvenirs across two long halls. Bargaining is expected, except on the gold itself: its price follows the daily gold rate, but the making charge on top is usually negotiable.

Al Noor Island and Al Majaz Waterfront

On Khalid Lagoon, Al Noor Island combines landscaped gardens, art installations and a butterfly house, while the nearby Al Majaz Waterfront has parks, restaurants and evening fountain shows. Both are at their best after sunset.

Sharjah Aquarium and Maritime Museum

These neighbouring attractions at Al Khan cover the region’s seafaring and pearling past and the marine life of the Gulf. They’re a good indoor choice with children; see our guide to the UAE with kids for more family ideas.

Mleiha

About an hour inland, Mleiha is a desert area where archaeologists have found evidence of human presence stretching back well over 100,000 years. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre explains the finds, and guided activities include hikes to Fossil Rock, dune drives, camping and stargazing.

Local rules: more conservative than Dubai

• No alcohol. It isn’t sold or served anywhere in Sharjah, including hotels. Being drunk in public is an offence anywhere in the UAE.
• Modest dress. Sharjah has a public decency code: cover shoulders and knees in malls, souks, museums and on the street, and keep swimwear for the beach or pool. Our what to wear guide has packing tips.
• Discretion. Avoid public displays of affection and ask before photographing people.

Most rules apply across the country, just enforced with a lighter touch in Dubai; our guide to UAE laws for tourists sets them out.

Getting there

• By car, taxi or ride-hailing: around 30 minutes from central Dubai when the roads are clear. The routes between the two cities are among the busiest in the country, and the heaviest traffic runs towards Dubai on weekday mornings and towards Sharjah in the evening. A day trip from Dubai travels against that flow, which helps. An extra charge usually applies when a Dubai taxi crosses into Sharjah.
• By bus: RTA intercity buses link Dubai’s main bus stations with Sharjah; check current routes and payment options on the RTA website.
• By air: Sharjah International Airport is the hub of low-cost carrier Air Arabia, and a useful alternative gateway for Dubai too.

Where to stay

Sharjah’s hotels are often cheaper than Dubai’s, and staying here suits a culture-focused trip. If most of your plans are in Dubai, though, rush-hour traffic makes Sharjah a poor base: stay in Dubai (see where to stay in Dubai) and visit Sharjah for the day.

When to go

October to April brings the best walking weather. February usually brings the Sharjah Light Festival, when landmarks are lit up with projections, and November the Sharjah International Book Fair, one of the largest in the world. In summer, the museums make Sharjah a good escape from the heat; see our month-by-month guide.

A one-day plan

1. Morning: the Museum of Islamic Civilisation, then a walk through the Heart of Sharjah to Al Hisn.
2. Lunch: a café in the heritage area.
3. Afternoon: the arts area and your Rain Room slot, then the Central Souk.
4. Evening: Al Noor Island or the Al Majaz Waterfront fountain show, before heading back to Dubai.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sharjah worth visiting from Dubai?

Yes, especially if you like museums, heritage and art. A day trip covers the highlights, and it’s a welcome change of pace from Dubai.

Can tourists drink alcohol in Sharjah?

No. Alcohol isn’t sold or served anywhere in the emirate, including hotels and restaurants.

What should I wear in Sharjah?

Loose, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Women don’t need to cover their hair, except when visiting a mosque.