UNESCO has selected Sharjah as the UAE’s cultural capital, despite it not being as glamorous or bustling as its wealthy neighbour Dubai. There is no shortage of things to do in Sharjah, which is a true melting pot of cultures, as the city offers an interesting mix of views, experiences, and activities. This city promises an exciting holiday experience, with nature parks, museums, stunning mosques, and beaches. Sharjah’s best things to do will allow you to get a glimpse of the Arab world’s history, culture, flora, and biodiversity like no other city. Check it out!
1. Al Noor Mosque, A Very Beautiful Mosque
Among Sharjah’s 600 mosques, this exquisite Ottoman-style mosque facing the Khalid lagoon is the most gorgeous. Al Noor Mosque, the first to welcome non-Muslims, towers majestically above the city’s skyline with its domes and minarets. A visit to this architectural marvel should undoubtedly be included on your list of things to do in Sharjah because of the stunning interiors with elaborate designs and masterfully carved Quranic phrases.
Timings: 10 AM – 11 AM on Mondays for non-Muslims
Location: Corniche Street، Al Majaz 1 – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
2. Treat yourself to a shopping spree at the Blue Souk.
Sharjah’s central market is a one-stop-shop for shopping, with its magnificent blue-tiled patterned facade. This massive mall, which spans six buildings and contains over 600 stores, is undoubtedly the city’s most photographed structure. The market, aptly named the Blue Souk, is centrally positioned and the ideal place to purchase gadgets, handicrafts, elaborately woven carpets, and antique jewellery.
Timings: 10AM – 10:30AM (Saturday to Thursday); 5PM – 10:30 PM (Fridays)
Location: King Faisal Road – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
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3. Chill on the beautiful Al Mamzar Beach.
With three pools, five beaches, picnic spots, and beautiful palm trees, this 106-hectare resort is the perfect place to kick back and unwind. On weekends, there are numerous playgrounds for children and barbecues for a fantastic day out with your family. Swimming and snorkelling, as well as lounging on this picture-perfect Sharjah beach, are some of the greatest things to do in Sharjah for a relaxing vacation from touring.
Timings: Open all 24 hours
Location: Alexandria St – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
4. At Sharjah Aquarium, You Can See The Wonders Of The Sea
This wonderful aquarium, which is spread out over two floors, allows visitors to get a glimpse of the deep sea’s diverse aquatic life. Visiting the aquarium is one of the best things to do in Sharjah with kids to discover the enchanting world of clownfish, seahorses, eels, and sharks, with 20 various tanks each mimicking a different aquatic environment. For your children, seeing coral reefs filled with fish, as well as exploring the underwater wonders of a lagoon or mangroves, is both entertaining and educational.
Timings: 8AM – 8PM (Monday to Thursday & Saturday); 4PM – 8PM (Friday); Closed on Sunday
Entry fee: 25 AED for adults and 15 AED for children (2-12 years)
Location: Al Meena Street, Near Sharjah Maritime Museum – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
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5. At Sharjah Desert Park, You Can Explore A Variety Of Worlds
This one-square-kilometre wonderland is home to four sites, each of which provides a view of Arabia’s distinctive desert ecosystem. There’s a botanical garden, a natural history museum, a children’s farm, and a popular wildlife centre (Sharjah Zoo). One of the most enjoyable activities for children in Sharjah is visiting the animal farm, where they may feed and pet the animals in their natural habitat. Explore the fascinating world of plants at the botanical museum and embark on an extraordinary voyage at the natural history museum.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM (Saturday to Thursday; closed on Tuesday); 2 PM – 5:30 PM (Friday)
Entry fee: 15 AED for adults and 10 AED for children
Location: Al Dhaid Rd, Near Sharjah Zoo – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
6. At the Arabian Wildlife Centre, Indulge Your Inner Wildlife Enthusiast
This facility must be on your list of things to do in Sharjah with the kids because it is without a doubt one of the best sites in the world to see the whole variety of wildlife found in the Arabian Peninsula. The Arabian Animal Centre hosts a variety of unique wildlife spotting opportunities, including the endangered Arabian leopard, Oryx antelopes, cheetahs, and flamingos. It is a component of the beautiful Sharjah Desert Park and is located approximately 30 kilometres outside of Sharjah city.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM (Saturday to Thursday; closed on Tuesday); 2 PM – 5:30 PM (Friday)
Location: Al Dhaid Rd, Near Sharjah Zoo – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
7. At Al Qasba, Take In The Beautiful Venetian Views
This lovely plaza in the heart of the city is the ideal spot for an evening stroll. While the kids enjoy the fun zone and indoor play area, you may relax and enjoy the musical fountain show or dine at one of the many restaurants and cafes. Sitting along the gorgeous Venetian canal, one of the top free things to do in Sharjah is a calming and relaxing experience. The Mayor Art Centre, which hosts themed exhibitions of canvas and digital art, is a must-see for art lovers.
8. The Sharjah Museum Of Islamic Civilization Is A Great Place To Learn About History
This well-curated and attractively laid-out museum, perched right on the seafront, sheds light on many aspects of Islam. The intriguing Museum of Islamic Civilization traces the evolution of Islamic faith, culture, art, and science. The museum, which is housed in a lovely former souk, takes you on a tour through the Islamic world’s achievements and milestones. One of the best things to do in Sharjah is to visit this amazing museum and look at rare coins, astrolabes, art pieces, and historical gems.
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM (Saturday to Thursday); 4 PM – 8 PM (Friday)
Entry fee: 10 AED for adults and 5 AED for children
Location: Corniche St, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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9. Relax In Al Noor Park’s Tranquil Surroundings
If you’re still looking for something to do in Sharjah after museum hopping, city touring, and shopping, the Al Noor Island in the Khaled Lagoon offers a breezy break from the city by just crossing a bridge. As you explore Al Noor Island’s many surprises and joys, the lush foliage, exquisite landscaping, and quiet will act like magic on your senses. At this quiet oasis in the middle of the city, you’ll find a dedicated literary pavilion, interesting art pieces, a children’s play area, a butterfly house, and much more.
Timings: 9 AM – 11 PM (Saturday to Wednesday); 9 AM – 12 AM (Thursday to Friday)
Entry fee: 50 AED for adults and 30 AED for children
Location: Buhaira Corniche Road, Khalid Lagoon – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
10. At the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, You Can Uncover Historical Secrets
This remarkable historic place provides an eye-opening experience of the region’s history and timeline in a fun and engaging way. Along with an exciting tour across the stunning dunes, you may learn about the region’s early settlers and Bedouin culture. You’ll pass through old forts, burial grounds, and communities as you travel through the stunning natural terrain and archaeological sites spread out across a few kilometres.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM (Saturday to Wednesday); 9 AM – 9 PM (Thursday to Friday)