Top Things to Do in Sharjah
Explore Sharjah, the UAE’s hidden gem and the third-most popular city after Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This hidden gem offers everything to its visitors, from authentic Emirati lifestyle and luxurious shopping options to museums and parks. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly vacation or you are traveling solo, Sharjah does not fail to impress and provide for different needs and tastes.
Rich in history, culture, and adventure, you can try different attractions in Sharjah. Visit numerous museums, indulge in shopping, or simply stroll along the parks, it is up to you. Here we compiled the top things to do while you are in Sharjah.
1- Al Montazah Parks
Al Montazah Parks in the UAE is one of the best water parks in the world, with more than 30 aquatic rides. This thrilling park consists of two sections, Island of Legends and Peals Kingdom. While Pearl Kingdom offers themes like pirates, treasures, and galaxies, Island of Legends mesmerizes its visitors with themes such as Spanish Carnival, ancient Greece, and mythical creatures.
Other attractions include the Eye of the Emirates wheel, Time Train, and 40 more experiences to maximize your fun. As a great family-friendly fun, Al Montazah Parks is located in downtown Sharjah and every Tuesday is Ladies' Day.
Operating Hours:
- Al Montazah Parks operates daily from 10.00 to 00.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 140 (around USD 38) for children and AED 170 (around USD 46)
2- Mleiha Archaeological Centre
Discover the captivating heritage site of Sharjah, Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which is a must-visit place for history and archaeology enthusiasts. This site was occupied by settlers during the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, and Islamic ages, thus providing a unique learning experience for all. Mleiha Fort, Umm an-Nar Tomb, and numerous exhibits await you to explore.
Besides visiting the archeological site, you can find an abundance of attractions nearby the Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Mleiha Archaeological Centre has a cafe where you can enjoy authentic coffee and tea. You can attend archaeology tours and fossil hunting expeditions, or if you feel adventurous, you can try horseback riding, desert bashing, biking, desert safari, overnight camping, or trekking.
Operating Hours:
- Mleiha Archaeological Centre operates Sunday through Wednesday from 09.00 to 19.00
- Thursday through Saturday it operates from 09.00 to 21.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 55 (around USD 14) per person
3- Al Noor Island
Al Noor Island in Sharjah is a must-see because of its beautiful landscape, tranquil shelter, and engaging attractions. It blends nature, art, and serenity, allowing tourists to escape the city’s rush and bustle. The primary attractions on the island, such as the Butterfly House and art sculptures, highlight nature and creativity. Families may enjoy the playground, and the island transforms into an amazing fantasy at night with dazzling illumination shows.
There's something for everyone with activities including guided tours, stargazing, workshops, and yoga classes. The island's convenient location and affordable tickets make it an excellent choice for nature and culture lovers.
Operating Hours:
- Al Noor Island operates Sunday through Wednesday from 09.00 to 23.00
- Thursday through Saturday it operates from 09.00 to 00.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 25 (around USD 5) per person but different passes are available for multiple attractions
4- King Faisal Mosque
Due to the Sharjah Mosque's status as the second-biggest mosque in the UAE and the largest mosque in Sharjah, it is a must-see attraction. The mosque can hold up to 25,000 worshipers and features classic Islamic architecture in an Ottoman-style design. Its main prayer hall has a magnificent domed ceiling with delicate Arabic calligraphy and gold details, which creates a majestic atmosphere.
The mosque also has additional facilities like a café, gift store, museum, and library. It welcomes non-Muslim guests and offers them designated areas and walkways to explore. The mosque's calm setting, spacious grounds, dazzling fountains, and waterfalls make it the perfect destination for strolls, while photography enthusiasts will love the Sharjah Mosque's stunning interiors and architecture.
Operating Hours:
- King Faisal Mosque open to visitors daily from dusk till dawn
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to King Faisal Mosque
5- Sharjah Aquarium
Sharjah Aquarium is a prominent attraction providing an exciting experience for adults and children. It is one of the UAE's major educational institutions, showcasing 150 marine species from the Arabian Gulf. Explore 21 aquariums with sea rays, reef sharks, moray eels, seahorses, and other marine life. Learn about marine animals' habitats, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and rocky coasts, in addition to watching them.
The aquarium's mission goes beyond entertainment, concentrating on marine conservation through the establishment of a marine nature reserve and public awareness. It offers free Wi-Fi, handicapped access, a mothers' room, a café, a gift store, and ample parking.
Operating Hours:
- Sharjah Aquarium operates daily from 08.00 to 20.00, except Fridays.
- Fridays operate from 16.00 to 20.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 25 (around USD 6) per person and AED 15 (around USD4) for children
6- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is a must-see for anybody interested in Islamic academics and their contributions. This museum displays the rich history of Islam with over 5,000 objects spread over seven subject halls. Explore rare Quran manuscripts, Muslim intellectuals' scientific achievements, archaeological artifacts, Islamic arts and crafts, weaponry, currency, and more.
Some of the most admirable artifacts include the silk and gold embroidered reproduction of the Ka'aba's Kiswah curtain and the beautiful mosaic of the Central Golden Dome. You can explore the holiness of Islamic culture and delve into the wisdom and craftsmanship of academics from different areas.
Operating Hours:
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization operates daily from 08.00 to 20.00, except Fridays.
- Fridays operate from 16.00 to 20.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 10 (around USD 2) per person and AED 5 (around USD1) for children between 2-12 years old
7- Al Noor Mosque
Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah is a must-see location, with its distinctive Ottoman-style architecture and insights into Islamic culture and history. It was completed in 2005 and is recognized for its spectacular architecture, which was inspired by Istanbul's Blue Mosque. The inside of the mosque is decorated with beautiful calligraphy and artistic elements that add to its majesty. Visitors may enjoy free guided tours of the mosque to learn about its design, Islamic traditions, and Emirati history.
Al Noor Mosque's magnificent position above Khalid Lagoon allows visitors to enjoy the surrounding beauty, including the butterfly garden. Whether you're interested in architecture, and culture, or simply taking stunning photographs, visiting Al Noor Mosque is an unforgettable experience.
Operating Hours:
- Al Noor Mosque open to visitors daily from dusk till dawn
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Al Noor Mosque
8- Al Majaz Waterfront
Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah is a must-see family attraction with a variety of entertainment options. The park currently has a mini-golf course, walking and jogging trails, a beautiful musical fountain, cycling facilities, a splash park, an Alwan Creativity Centre for kids, and numerous art exhibitions thanks to substantial renovations. Visitors may also take train or private Abra rides, and dine at prominent restaurants in the food court.
The park is home to the lovely Al Taqwa Mosque and has plenty of parking. Al Majaz Park, with its numerous attractions and family-friendly amenities, provides an entertaining experience for all.
Operating Hours:
- Al Majaz Waterfront operates daily from 09.00 to 22.00, except Thursdays and Fridays.
- Thursdays and Fridays operate from 10.00 to 01.00
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Al Majaz Waterfront
9- Sharjah Desert Park
Sharjah Desert Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and families seeking a unique experience. It began as a conservation center for endangered flora and fauna and has evolved into a captivating destination with a botanical garden, petting farm, and Arabian Wildlife Center. The park showcases many attractions, including the Sharjah Natural History Museum, where visitors can learn about the city's flora and fauna, and the Sharjah Botanical Museum, which offers interactive displays about different plant species.
Arabia's Wildlife Center features diverse sections, including reptiles, birds, nocturnal animals, and large carnivores. The Children's Farm provides learning opportunities for kids to interact with domesticated animals, and the Breeding Center for Endangered Arabian Wildlife focuses on preserving endangered species.
Operating Hours:
- Sharjah Desert Park operates Thursdays and Mondays from 09.00 to 17.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 15 (around USD 4) per person
10- Sharjah Classic Car Museum
Sharjah Classic Car Museum is an essential attraction for vintage car enthusiasts, and anybody interested in vehicles. The museum displays a diverse collection of antique automobiles, including models from reputable companies such as Rolls Royce, Ford, Mercedes, Chevrolet, and Bentley. These early-twentieth-century automobiles are recognized for their sophisticated and stunning looks. The museum provides an informative and exciting experience for visitors, allowing them to learn about the history of the automobile industry and explore different eras of car manufacture.
The interactive games and experiments appeal to both adults and children, making it an excellent family trip. Visitors can also find classic motorcycles and bicycles at the museum.
Operating Hours:
- Sharjah Classic Car Museum operates daily from 08.00 to 20.00, except Fridays.
- Fridays operate from 16.00 to 20.00
Entrance Fee:
- AED 10 (around USD 2) per person and AED 5 (around USD1) for children between 2-12 years old
11- Sharjah City Centre
One of Sharjah's most popular places is Sharjah City Centre, which offers both locals and visitors a wide variety of dining options, high-quality entertainment, and excellent shopping options. The mall has 143 well-known shops that appeal to different fashion tastes and provide both international and local brands. Additionally, it has the family-friendly Magic Planet entertainment complex and a 12-screen VOX Cinemas.
Sharjah City Centre offers an array of shopping options from clothing and accessories to electronics, furniture, jewelry, and watches. Also, a variety of dining alternatives, from fast food to fine dining, are available. The mall offers numerous services and facilities to its customers, including prayer rooms, free Wi-Fi, baby changing stations, and first aid.
Operating Hours:
- Sharjah City Centre operates daily from 10.00 to 22.00
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Sharjah City Centre
12- Souk Al Arsah
Visit Sharjah's Souk Al Arsah, the renowned Old Bazaar, for a distinctive shopping and cultural experience. This market, which has been around for 50 years, is a reminder of the area's long history and provides a glimpse into the Bedouin era. Discover the shops that surround the central courtyard, which offers a variety of goods such as handmade jewelry, medicinal plants, traditional clothing, semi-precious stones, and unique decorative things.
Bargain your way to low costs and get hidden gems like vintage items made of wood, brass, and silver. After shopping, visit the small coffee store, and try authentic Arabic and Sulaimani coffee. On Al Sharq Street in Shuwaihean, Souk Al Arsah is located across from the Old Souk.
Operating Hours:
- Souk Al Arsah operates daily from 09.00 to 13.00 and from 17.00 to 20.00
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Souq al Jubail
13- Sahara Centre
Sharjah's Sahara Centre is a busy shopping and entertainment center that draws locals and tourists. This mall provides a diverse selection of international brands and is home to high-end fashion labels, home improvement companies, pharmacies, and boutique shops. Adventureland, an indoor theme park within Sahara Centre, offers thrilling rides for children and adults, making it an excellent choice for family entertainment. The NOVO Cinema features the most recent blockbusters along with an immersive 3D experience.
Sahara Centre includes a variety of restaurants and cafés that appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Sahara Centre offers a holistic experience for tourists visiting Sharjah, whether for shopping, seeking entertainment, or enjoying a meal.
Operating Hours:
- Sahara Centre operates daily from 10.00 to 01.00
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Sahara Centre
14- Heart of Sharjah
A notable effort to restore and protect Sharjah's ancient districts is the Heart of Sharjah. By evoking the ambiance of the 1950s, it seeks to revive the city's legacy and bring it back to its former glory. The heart of Sharjah has historical structures, a preserved souq area, and attractions like the Emirates Handicraft Centre and Mleiha Archaeological Site.
One of the oldest and busiest souqs in the area, Souq Al Shanasiyah, showcases traditional crafts, UAE fashion, and numerous alternatives to food and shopping. The Heart of Sharjah is ideal for discovering Sharjah's fascinating history and cultural heritage.
Operating Hours:
- Heart of Sharjah operates daily from 09.00 to 21.00, except Fridays.
- Fridays operate from 16.00 to 21.00
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Heart of Sharjah
15- Al Ittihad Square Park
Al Ittihad Square Park in Sharjah is a must-see for visitors looking for a peaceful and green oasis in the middle of the city. It is located in the Al Nud area and has well-landscaped and lush greenery ideal for strolls and fresh air. The renowned Pearl Monument, which represents the UAE's age-old pearl diving industry, is one of the park's features.
The park between The Blue Souk and The King Faisal Mosque offers a peaceful break to people of all ages. Visit Al Ittihad Square Park to relax in the middle of nature and learn about the region's cultural importance.
Operating Hours:
- Al Ittihad Square Park operates 24 hours a day
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Al Ittihad Square Park
