Sharjah is the third largest city in the UAE. It is also the cultural center of the emirate of the same name. In terms of the number of attractions, Sharjah may be inferior to Dubai, but definitely not in quality and variety. In addition, it is not so crowded here, so it will be even more comfortable to look around and relax.
A large number of museums will not let curious travelers get bored. Science, art, religion, heritage of the past - any themes are reflected in the collected collections. There are recreational areas scattered around the city with a lot of entertainment. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Al-Nur mosque, where non-Muslims are welcome.
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What to see and where to go in Sharjah?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.
Al-Majaz embankment
Spread out on the shore of the Khalid lagoon. It has existed in its current form since 2011. The attraction has been named the best in its emirate several times. The park of the same name is located nearby. The area is 30 thousand square meters. Its main object is a light and music fountain. During the day it is worth taking a walk around it, escaping the heat, and in the evening a real show begins. You can watch him from a cafe or restaurant.
Al-kasbah channel
Built in the first half of the 20th century. Entertainment zones for every taste are located along its banks. Playgrounds are divided by age category. Cafes and restaurants offer a varied menu. There is a sports and recreation complex. Light and music fountains are turned on twice a day. Lovers of scenic views should take a ride on the Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel or on a dhow along the canal itself.
Fort Al-Hisn
The year of construction is 1820. The fort had several functions from the residence of the Al-Qassimi family to the cultural center of the region. In 1969, the building was practically destroyed, but it was restored without major external changes. In the past, the walls were protected from Bedouin attacks, now they are walking areas where tourists can access. There is a museum and a cafe inside the fortress, there is a cozy courtyard.
Archaeological Center of Mleikha
Located near the city. The area was explored thanks to the laying of a water supply system in the 90s of the XX century. Having dug out part of the fort, excavations were carried out here and many interesting finds were discovered. They were combined into one collection and a center was built. Its area is 2 thousand square meters. Open to visitors since 2016. In the spacious halls you can find unusual exhibits: from jewelry to a fragment of a camel cemetery.
King Faisal Mosque
Located in the city center by the main market. The building area is more than 5 thousand square meters. The maximum number of people praying at the same time is 3 thousand people. The construction was completed in 1986. The mosque is a gift to the emirate from the king. The facades of the upper floors project forward. In addition to the main hall with frescoes on the walls, there are spacious rooms for lectures and educational sessions inside.
Al-Nur Mosque
Built in 2005 near the city center. Nearby there is an embankment equipped for walking and relaxation. The prototype of the project is the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. This religious site was the first to open free access to non-Muslims. At the same time, during the visits, you must observe the dress code. Excursions are conducted, both short, telling about the mosque itself, and detailed, introducing Islamic traditions.
Sharjah aquarium
Opened in 2008. The hotel is located near the border with Dubai on the shores of the bay. The main entertainment is walking through halls and tunnels with glass walls or even a ceiling. Behind them are the numerous inhabitants of the oceans, of which there are more than 250 species. You can choose several options for excursions. There is a museum on the second floor, where rare specimens of underwater fauna and flora are collected.
Maritime museum
Opened in 2009 in the Han district. The exposition contains old maps, portraits of prominent sailors, floating craft from different eras. The tour guides will tell you about traders and travelers, as well as fishermen and pearl hunters. The stands show the accessories necessary for fishing. On some days, maritime performances and traditional sailor songs are performed.
Classic Car Museum
Located near the airport. Has been working intermittently since 2008. Retro cars of popular brands were assembled in many countries. Some copies were bought from collectors, including sheikhs. Among others, there are Rolls-Royce, Peugeot, Mercedes models. The latest car was produced in 1979. The exposition is divided into 5 thematic parts. It tells the story of the classic car industry.
Museum of Islamic Civilization
Created in 1996. It was reconstructed in 2007, so it did not work for a year. The collection not only preserves samples of Islamic culture, history, art, but also outlines a vector for the further development of civilization. The exposition is located in 6 halls. The stands display items related to, among other things, religion and innovation. In addition to the gift shop and cafe, tourists can visit prayer rooms.
Al-Mahatta Museum
Leads its history from the 30s of the last century. Occupies the building of the former airport. The collection is divided into two categories: travel and transportation. They have separate subtopics. For example, an exhibition in honor of Air Arabia, a major airline with an impressive history. Another noteworthy collection is bicycles: from the first models to the present day. A documentary about the airport is shown in the museum every day.
Art Museum
It has been hosting guests since 1997. The area of the occupied building is 111 thousand square meters. The two floors are divided into 69 exhibition halls. On a permanent basis, about 300 paintings are exhibited, but there are also temporary exhibitions. On the canvases, mainly the East or the attributes of this part of the world. The paintings were painted by both foreign and local artists. The museum has an extensive library, a cafe and a children's room.
Heritage museum
Founded in 2012. Dioramas, fabrics, religious objects, tools for work, and objects of creativity are collected under one roof. One thing unites them - belonging to the peoples inhabiting the UAE. 6 rooms with modern equipment will tell visitors about trade, medicine, folklore, religion and holidays. Educational and cognitive programs are carried out on the basis of the museum.
Science Museum
Opened since 1996. It was the first science museum in the country. It does not just display exhibits from different spheres. Interactive programs allow you to learn from hands-on experience. In total, about 50 devices are available in the halls, which can be touched and examined in detail, as well as learn something new with their help. Staff and guides can advise guests, including young people, on many scientific issues.
Calligraphy Museum
For the first time received visitors in 2002. One of the goals of the museum is to preserve the Arab heritage. The exposition consists of household items and art samples. They are united only by applied calligraphic inscriptions. Each room represents a separate collection. For example, in one of them ancient books are exhibited, and in the other - golden ligature. There are no analogues on the Arabian Peninsula.
Arabian Wildlife Center
Based near Sharjah and the airport. Opened since 1999. Almost all species of the fauna of the Arabian Peninsula are collected in one place. The zoo is unique in its composition. For all pets, conditions are created that are close to the wild. Even mini-lakes and similar rivers are made. There are not only aviaries, but also terrariums with aquariums. Admission is free for children, closed on Monday.
Fish market
Large covered shopping areas located near the bus station. The building was completely renovated and rebuilt in 2014. Two domes rise above the rectangular structure. When designing, a bias was made towards traditional Arab architecture. Despite the name, they sell not only fish, but other products as well.
Blue Souq Central Market
Also called "blue bazaar" because of the color of the tiles. The covered market was built in compliance with all Islamic traditions in architecture. Two floors and two wings are connected by convenient lifts and walkways. Special towers have been built, which are used for ventilation of the premises. The total number of outlets is about 600. They sell everything: from jewelry and souvenirs to clothes and carpets.
Al Khan Beach
Clean coastline with developed infrastructure. There is a rescue center. Rental offices will lend for a reasonable amount everything you need for your vacation, including a jet ski. There are not only cafes and restaurants nearby, but also a hotel. You have to go through it to be on the beach. Autumn is not the best time to visit: there are jellyfish and stingrays in the water.
Al Mamzar Beach Park
The complex is located on the border of Dubai and Sharjah. It includes 5 beaches at once. Of these, 4 are on the shore of the Persian Gulf, and 1 is in the strait. All of them are characterized by fine white sand, clean water and the availability of everything you need within walking distance. There are swimming pools with fresh water, sports grounds. Nearby there is a green park area stretching for 55 thousand square meters.
