April 6, 2026
Sharjah is the third-largest city in the United Arab Emirates and is popularly known as the cultural capital. On my trip, I discovered some fascinating locations and breathtaking architecture. This guide will reveal the best things to do in Sharjah. It will help you plan your own adventure with tips on the ideal time to visit as well as suggestions for some amazing places to stay.
Although Sharjah is home to the world’s oldest civilizations it offers a cutting-edge viewpoint with its futuristic skyscrapers, shopping malls, and art installations. There’s something for everyone in Sharjah, whether you want to be lost in history and culture or embrace the city’s more modern edge.
Disclosure: This was a hosted trip was hosted by Visit Sharjah, however, all views and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links whereby I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps with the costs of running my website so I can keep my content free for you. Thanks as always for your support! See my disclosure policy here.
Things to know about Sharjah
Where is Sharjah?
Sharjah is a coastal city on the Arabian Peninsula’s eastern coast. It is bordered by Oman to the east, Saudi Arabia to the south, and Dubai, one of the UAE’s glitzy emirates, to the north.
If you’re looking to travel to Sharjah, the closest airports are Sharjah International Airport and Dubai International Airport. Dubai Airport is only a 10-15 minute drive from Sharjah with no traffic. The best airlines to fly with are Emirates and British Airways.
Best time to visit Sharjah
Sharjah has a hot, desert climate with very little rainfall. The best time to visit Sharjah is from November to April when the temperatures are cooler. If you’re looking to escape the cold winter weather, Sharjah is a great option – you’ll be able to enjoy warm temperatures and sunshine while avoiding crowds in places like Dubai.
Why Visit Sharjah?
You may be wondering, ‘Is Sharjah worth visiting?’ And it most definitely is! Sharjah is one of the most underrated cities in the UAE. Considered to be the most traditional of the Emirates, it’s a great city to visit if you want to experience Arabian culture and history. Sharjah is also home to some amazing museums, art galleries, and souks. The city is well-connected with other parts of the UAE, so can easily be an additional destination on an Abu Dhabi or Dubai itinerary.
Best Things To do in Sharjah
Wondering what to do in Sharjah? Have a look at these unmissable activities and places to visit in Sharjah for a memorable time.
Heart of Sharjah
The Heart of Sharjah is a 15-year-old project to restore the historic part of the neighbourhood and preserve the traditional way of life. Located in the city centre, a wander through the narrow lanes is a must. It’s home to some of Sharjah’s oldest and most important buildings like the Bait Al Naboodah Heritage House. The preserved pearl trader’s home is from the mid-nineteenth century. It’s been converted into a museum with exhibits of everything from Bedouin traditions to ancient crafts. So, fascinating to be able to see life as it used to be in Sharjah.
Head to the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum to admire the beauty of Arabic calligraphy. The museum features masterpieces and paintings from local and international artists and it’s a joy to walk around.
The area is also a great place to find traditional souvenirs at the souks such as the renovated Souk Al Shanasiyah and Souk Al Arsah probably one of the oldest marketplaces in the UAE.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation is one of the Middle East’s largest museums. This fascinating museum is located in the historical heart of Sharjah on the Majarrah Waterfront and is housed in what was formerly a traditional Middle Eastern souq.
It showcases more than 5,000 exquisite Islamic artefacts from all over the Islamic World, is divided into seven spacious galleries and display areas. It covers everything from art and architecture to science and technology and includes a children’s section. Entry costs 10 AED for adults and 5 AED for children (under 12 years old).
The Rain Room
The Sharjah Rain Room is an amazing tourist attraction in a region where it seldom rains. It’s the first of its kind in the UAE and is a must-see interactive art exhibit for anyone visiting Sharjah.
The Rain Room is a huge chamber with cascading water. Activated by motion sensors, you can walk through the rainfall and not get wet. It makes for some incredible photos and is a lot of fun. Adults pay 25 AED, while children are 15 AED. An experience not to miss when in Sharjah.
Al Noor Island and the Butterfly House
Al Noor Island is a beautiful island located in Sharjah’s Khalid Lagoon. It’s a great place for a walk and picnics, visitors can spot many art installations dotted around the island. Popular with families, the island also has a children’s playground and best of all a Butterfly House.
The Sharjah Butterfly House is home to over 500 butterflies from all around the world. It’s an amazing experience to be able to see so many different types of butterflies in one place. Entrance to the Butterfly House costs 15 AED for adults and 10 AED for children (under 12 years old).
The most beautiful time to visit is late afternoon when the cityscape is bathed in sunset light. In the evening a colourful array of lights illuminate everything on the island from buildings to trees to plants and cacti. It’s a magical time.
Sharjah Light Festival
The Sharjah Light Festival is a yearly event in Sharjah, which takes place in February. If you’re there, it’s not to be missed. The festival celebrates Sharjah’s rich culture and heritage with a programme of music, dance, art, and light performances.
Open to all the festival takes place at different locations all over the Emirate, illuminating iconic landmarks such as Sharjah Mosque, Al Majaz Waterfront and Sharjah University City Hall to name a few.
Al Majaz Waterfront
The Al Majaz Waterfront is a beautiful and popular waterfront park located in Sharjah. It stretches along Sharjah Creek and is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You’ll find everything from traditional Emirati food to international cuisine. It’s also a great place for a walk the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. The best time to visit is in the evening when the waterfront comes alive with lights, especially during the Sharjah Light Festival.
House of Wisdom
If you’re looking for places to visit in Sharjah for free, look no further than The House of Wisdom. This site is an interpretation of what a library should be in the 21st century. It includes a library, art gallery, auditorium, classrooms, and exhibition spaces.
The facility is a place to learn about Sharjah’s culture and heritage and houses more than 200,000 books in Arabic and other languages. It’s definitely worth a visit, open to the public and it’s free to enter. So, there’s really no excuse not to go.
Holy Quran Academy
The Sharjah Holy Quran Academy is a world-renowned institute that teaches the Quran and Islamic studies to students from all over the world.
Founded in 1990, it’s certainly worth a trip for anyone visiting Sharjah. You’ll discover a variety of historical documents, manuscripts and artefacts from various countries depicting the history of the religion through the generations.
Al Buhais Geological Park
If you’re looking for an amazing and unique Sharjah attraction, then you need to check out the Al Buhais Geological Park. The largest geological park in the UAE is located an hour’s drive from the city centre in a stunning barren setting. It has a variety of terrains and geologic formations, making it an interesting place to visit for anybody interested in science or nature.
Make sure you allow enough time to see everything as there is a lot to see. The mountain route was particularly fascinating, as it encourages visitors to discover the mountainous region. Ancient burial sites from the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages can be viewed from the walkways and observation platforms.
Meliha
The small town of Meliha is located near Al Buhais Geological Park, which allows you to get lost in the desert. It’s a fantastic spot to visit if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Take in the beautiful views, relax at one of the town’s cafes, or go for a stroll along the beach. If you have time, consider booking one of the amazing Meliha excursions in the desert.
Book Now: Mleiha Desert Safari with Sandboarding, Stargazing & Dinner
You’ll go on an unforgettable adventure in the high dunes surrounding Camel Rock, savour a BBQ dinner in the desert, and enjoy a spot of stargazing. Returning with memories you’ll treasure forever.
Khorfakkan AmpHitheatre and Waterfall
Khorfakkan is a small town on the Gulf of Oman well known for its amphitheatre and waterfall. The Khorfakkan Amphitheatre, which was recently constructed, covers over 17000m2 and can accommodate up to 3500 people.
Next to it is the magnificent 45-metre waterfall. Although manmade it was carved out of natural rock and illuminated at night. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes surrounding the waterfall, so you can easily spend a few hours enjoying the scenery
The Khorfakkan Amphitheatre and Waterfall both face the beautiful bay, so you can even enjoy a stroll along the beach. It’s a great place to take photos, so don’t forget your camera. It’s about an hour by road from Sharjah making it the ideal day trip.
Khorfakkan Old Souk
If you’re travelling to Khorfakkan, don’t miss a visit to the old Souk. The Khorfakkan Old Souk is a traditional Arabic market located in the heart of Sharjah. The souq has been around for centuries and is home to a variety of shops selling everything from traditional Emirati food to international cuisine. It’s also a great place for a walk the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Where to stay in Sharjah
There are a range of places to stay in Sharjah, but here are a few of my favourites that I’ve been lucky enough to experience:
The Chedi Al Bait
If you’re looking to escape to a traditional yet luxurious and elegant setting in Sharjah, The Chedi Al Bait is for you. The property has been transformed from a collection of heritage manor houses to a luxurious five-star hotel made up of 53 rooms and suites.
The hotel offers a range of facilities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, hammam, sauna and gym. When it comes to dining The Arabic Restaurant serves up classic Emirati dishes or The Restaurant has a menu of global dishes and an outside courtyard.
The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated with Arabic influences. For me, the Acqua Di Parma toiletries in the bathroom were the cherry on top. There’s also a complimentary minibar and high-speed internet. It’s the perfect base for exploring Sharjah.
Check availability and book The Chedi Al Bait
Mysk Al Badayer Retreat
The Mysk Al Badayer Retreat is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a desert escape. The hotel is located in the Al Badayer area of Sharjah’s Central Region and is surrounded by beautiful sand dunes.
The hotel offers a range of facilities, including an outdoor pool, spa, gym, tennis courts and children’s play area. There’s also a restaurant serving up international cuisine and a traditional Emirati Majlis.
Rooms are large, clean and light with Middle Eastern touches. The retreat is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the desert.
Check availability and book Mysk Al Badayer Retreat
Mysk Kingfisher Retreat
Mysk Kingfisher Retreat is located on an island in the fishing village of Kalba, next to Fujairah city. The natural retreat is the first eco-lodge in the region.
Located on the beach it offers the perfect mix of luxury and relaxation and features 20 luxury African style tents, by the beach. They all come with their own private plunge pools and views of the Indian Ocean and the Hajar mountains at the back. It’s the perfect place for couples, families or groups.
Read reviews on Tripadvisor
Check availability and book Mysk Kingfisher Retreat
Are you ready to Visit Sharjah?
Sharjah is a great destination for a holiday and there are plenty of things to do in the city. So if you’re looking for an amazing cultural experience and some relaxation by the beach, Sharjah is definitely worth considering for your next holiday. Check out the travel toolkit below to help plan your trip and please leave me a comment below if you have any questions.
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