AE Sharjah: Dubai's cultural capital
Sharjah, (or Charjah) is one of the seven constituent emirates of the United Arab Emirates, and is often referred to as the country's cultural capital. This recognition comes as no surprise, as Sharjah is constantly committed to promoting and preserving its rich cultural heritage. In 1998, UNESCO designated Sharjah as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World, a distinction that underlines the importance of its contributions to culture and the arts in the region and beyond.
Sharjah - A Cultural Emirate
Heritage and Culture
Sharjah is a must-see destination for lovers of culture and history. The emirate is home to several world-renowned museums showcasing various aspects of Islamic civilization and art.Â
Sharjah's Museum of Islamic Civilization is one of the most famous. It features a vast collection of Islamic artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, coins and handicrafts, offering a deep dive into Islamic history.Â
The Sharjah Museum of Art is another cultural gem, exhibiting local and international works of art covering a wide range of styles and periods. For those interested in archaeology, the Sharjah Archaeological Museum offers a fascinating exploration of the region's ancient history, with exhibits dating back to prehistoric times.
Events & Festivals
In addition to its museums, Sharjah is also renowned for its cultural events and festivals, which attract visitors from all over the world. The Sharjah Heritage Festival, for example, is an annual event that celebrates local traditions and customs through exhibitions, performances and workshops. It's a unique opportunity for visitors to discover and participate in the emirate's cultural practices.Â
The Sharjah International Children's Film Festival is another major event that showcases the cinematic talent of young filmmakers and offers quality film screenings for children and families.
One of the region's most prestigious art events is the Sharjah Biennial. This biennial event attracts artists, art critics and visitors from all walks of life. The Sharjah Biennial provides a platform for contemporary artists to showcase their innovative and engaging work, making Sharjah a dynamic center for artistic dialogue and exchange.
Tourist Attractions in Sharjah
Sharjah Corniche
The Sharjah Corniche is a picturesque promenade that stretches along the magnificent Khalid Lagoon. This promenade offers breathtaking views of the emirate's sparkling waters and urban skyline. Ideal for a leisurely stroll, the Corniche is lined with verdant parks, comfortable benches and charming cafés where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshing drinks. The area is also ideal for joggers and cyclists, thanks to its wide sidewalks and bike paths. The Corniche becomes particularly lively in the evening, when families and friends come to enjoy the fresh air and enchanting scenery illuminated by the city lights.
Al Majaz Park
Al Majaz Park is a must-see destination for families and nature lovers. Located on the shores of Khalid Lagoon, this park offers a multitude of leisure activities and facilities. One of the main attractions is the musical fountain, which features impressive light and sound shows synchronized with dancing water jets. The park also boasts several well-equipped children's playgrounds, jogging tracks and picnic areas. Visitors can hire pedal boats for a ride on the lagoon, or simply relax on one of the lush green lawns. Al Majaz Park also hosts cultural events and open-air concerts, adding a festive dimension to this already vibrant venue.
Souk Central (Blue Souk)
Souk Central, also known as Blue Souk because of its distinctive blue tiles, is an iconic traditional market in Sharjah. This souk is a paradise for shoppers and those in search of unique souvenirs. Spread over two levels, it houses a multitude of stores selling a variety of items, including gold jewelry, textiles, Persian carpets, antiques and local handicrafts. The architecture of Souk Central itself is impressive, with majestic arches and decorative domes that recall the charm of ancient Arab bazaars. Visitors can lose themselves in the bustling aisles, bargain with traders and discover unique treasures while enjoying the authentic market atmosphere.
Sharjah Airport (SHJ)
Sharjah International Airport, a major air hub!
Strategically located, it plays a crucial role in the air connectivity of the emirate and the country as a whole. Sharjah Airport is located approximately 13 kilometers east of Sharjah City, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike.Â
This proximity to the city means that travelers can quickly reach their final destinations, whether home, hotel or tourist sites. The airport is well served by public transport, including regular bus and shuttle services, as well as a fleet of cabs available 24 hours a day. For those who prefer to drive, car rental options are also available, offering great flexibility for exploring Sharjah and the surrounding area.
Airlines and Destinations
Sharjah Airport is best known as the main base for Air Arabia, the region's leading low-cost airline. Air Arabia offers an extensive network of flights to over 170 destinations in Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. In addition to Air Arabia, the airport hosts several other international and regional airlines, further expanding travel options for passengers. This diversity of airlines and destinations makes Sharjah Airport an ideal base for business and leisure travellers, offering convenient and affordable connections to many key cities around the world.
To travel from Sharjah to Dubai, several transport options are available, each with its own advantages in terms of cost, convenience and travel time.Â
Dubai by Taxi
Cabs are one of the most convenient options for traveling between Sharjah and Dubai. You can easily find cabs on the streets of Sharjah or book them via local cab apps. The cab ride takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic, and can cost between AED 70 and AED 100. Official cabs are metered, guaranteeing transparent fares.
Dubai by Bus
Public buses are an economical and reliable option for travel between Sharjah and Dubai. Several bus routes operated by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) link the two emirates. The bus journey generally takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around AED 15 per trip. Buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, offering an affordable alternative to cabs.
Driving to Dubai
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Sharjah for the journey to Dubai. The main highway linking the two emirates is the E11, also known as the Sheikh Zayed Road. The distance is around 30 kilometers, and the journey can take from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic, particularly at peak times. Driving gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make stops along the way.
Go to Dubai by Private Transport (Uber/Careem)
Private transport services such as Uber and Careem are also available and offer a comfortable way to travel between Sharjah and Dubai. These services can be booked via mobile apps, and fares vary according to demand and distance. The cost is generally similar to that of traditional cabs, but with the advantage of being able to book in advance and track the journey in real time on the app.
Choosing the best neighborhood in Sharjah depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you're looking for a family-friendly environment with beautiful views and plenty of outdoor activities, Al Majaz could be the ideal option. For a vibrant cultural life, Al Qasba is an excellent choice. Muweilah Commercial is ideal for students and expatriates looking for convenient amenities, whileAl Nahda offers a balance of accessibility, modern amenities and affordability. Whichever neighborhood you choose, Sharjah offers a welcoming and rewarding living environment for all.