Best Places to Visit in Sharjah

 Enjoy more than just Dubai city on your UAE holiday. Sharjah is a beautiful emirate just 1 to 2 hours’ drive from Dubai, where you can discover a plethora of cultural, modern, and nature attractions. Even though Sharjah may not pique the same level of excitement as Dubai, it is far more laid-back and uncrowded than Dubai, and it offers a variety of fun activities both on the west coast as well on the eastern side of the United Arab Emirates. Listed below are some of the best experiences that Sharjah has to offer that you should not miss.

List of places to visit in Sharjah

·      Experience scenic views at Al Majaz Waterfront

      One of the most picturesque places to visit in Sharjah, Al Majaz Waterfront is where you can soak in the beautiful city skyline and sea views of the emirate. In addition to the stunning scenery, the waterfront offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for families, friends, and couples. There are dedicated play areas for kids to enjoy as well as golf courses for grown-ups to enjoy. In the surrounding gardens, there are numerous spaces and a fantastic collection of restaurants, cafes, and dining venues for fun get-togethers while admiring the scenic panorama of the city.

·         Reconnect with nature at Al Noor Island
     

      Al Noor Island is one of the most fascinating places to explore in Sharjah. The tiny yet picturesque isle rests in Khalid Lagoon, about two kilometres from Al Majaz Waterfront. The setting is incredibly relaxing, enveloped in lush vegetation, and has manicured gardens peppered with creative art installations, an exquisite butterfly house, and a cosy reading nook called the Literature Pavilion. There is a play area for kids and a charming cafe as well. It's a favorite place for locals to get away from the city vibes and tourists to enjoy incredible views of the city by the water.

·         Go snorkelling at Khor Fakkan
      

 

        A visit to Sharjah is not the same as a visit to the city. During the journey, we go beyond and onto the other side of the UAE, and this is where the adventure begins. Sharjah is the only emirate with an exclave along the Gulf of Oman. On the Eastern coast of the UAE, Khor Fakkan is a unique Sharjah tourist attraction - a beach destination that offers snorkelling opportunities. There is a wealth of marine life in the aquamarine waters, and the water is clear enough for a memorable diving experience. Even if you are not an adventurer, you can still go on deep sea fishing trips or enjoy the city attractions including a gorgeous man-made cascade known as Khorfakkan waterfall.

·         Take a look at the ocean world  at Sharjah Aquarium
      

        It is no secret that UAE has some spectacular aquariums, and Sharjah Aquarium is one of them. Featuring 20 massive tanks filled with an impressive collection of marine life, the aquarium offers visitors a fascinating insight into the marine world. This aquarium is located at the Al Khan, and it is very popular among kids as they can marvel at the sea life and learn about different types of marine life from the deep sea, from sharks to sting rays to jellyfish to coral reefs and everything in between.

·         Visit the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

 Sharjah has contributed significantly to the preservation of Arab and Islamic culture as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World designated by UNESCO. A visit to the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization will affirm this honour. This remarkable museum on Corniche Street in the Al Majarrah district is one of the city's most prominent cultural landmarks. It catalogues and displays priceless historical antiques and centuries-old artefacts from all around the world regarding  Islamic civilisation. The structure has a gorgeous exterior and is a must-see if you want to fully comprehend the cultural aspects of the UAE.

·         Go shopping at Central Souk

On the crossroads of  Khalid Lagoon and King Faisal Road, you will find an enchanting blue-tile clad arena at Al Ittuad Square. As you enter, a bustling traditional souk that trades in an assortment of fascinating Arabic commodities and handicrafts welcomes you. The Central Souk, popularly referred to as the Blue Souk because of its blue mosaic facade, is a famously recognisable architectural wonder in the UAE that is also immortalised in history  with its picture featured on UAE’s 5 dirham currency note. It is one of the most famous  places in Sharjah to shop for authentic Middle Eastern products. 

·         Explore the food scene

Similarly to Dubai, Sharjah is home to several ex-pats, so the food scene is influenced by a mix of cultures. While here, you will be tempted to try out a variety of delicious gastronomical specialties, including authentic traditional Emirati food. There is something for everyone to eat in Sharjah, whether you are vegetarian, vegan, seafood lover, or international food lover. Want to know where to find a delicious meal in Sharjah? The following restaurants are worth checking out.