Things to do in Sharjah
The UAE’s culture capital next to Dubai — the Heart of Sharjah, its museums, the Blue Souk and Al Qasba, plus desert archaeology at Mleiha.
Sharjah sits right beside Dubai but keeps a very different character — quieter, more traditional and proudly cultural, recognised internationally as a capital of Arab and Islamic culture. It rewards a day of its own, especially for anyone more interested in heritage than in glitz.
Culture and heritage
- The Heart of Sharjah — a restored old quarter of coral-and-gypsum courtyard houses, galleries and cafés, the largest heritage restoration in the region.
- The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, under its golden dome on the creek, and the Sharjah Art Museum.
- The Blue Souk (Central Souk) for carpets, gold and souvenirs, and the elegant Al Noor Mosque.
Waterfront and desert
- Al Qasba and Al Majaz waterfront — canals, a big wheel, fountains and family-friendly promenades.
- Mleiha, in the desert inland, an archaeological site of ancient tombs and forts with a modern visitor centre and dune activities.
Good to know
Sharjah is a dry emirate — no alcohol is served or sold — and dress tends to be more conservative than in Dubai. It borders Dubai directly, so it makes an easy add-on, though the rush-hour traffic between the two can be heavy. November to March is the comfortable season. See places to stay in Sharjah and neighbouring Dubai.