Dubai’s quieter neighbor to the north, Sharjah is evolving into a tourist-worthy hotspot in its own right. Sharjah is the capital of the United Arab Emirates’ third-largest emirate of the same name, hiding a wealth of cultural and historical draws that distinguish it from its razzle-dazzle counterpart. Out of all the things to do in Sharjah, culture lovers can get lost in museums like the world-class Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization in the Heart of Sharjah quarter; outdoor types will want to hit the desert for adventure and archaeological sites; and leisure seekers may warm to the city’s beaches, souks, and waterfront parks. Take note: Sharjah is 100 percent dry, so no alcohol is served anywhere.
The best time to visit Sharjah is November through May when the UAE’s roasting summer temperatures melt into milder conditions ideal for beach and sightseeing trips. This is peak season, however, so while Sharjah is quieter than Dubai, its attractions can get busy. Add excitement to a winter visit by attending one of Sharjah’s blockbuster annual events, including December’s Formula 1 powerboat racing Grand Prix or February’s Sharjah Light Festival.
Most Sharjah visitors hail cabs or rent a car to travel: Both are cheap and handy ways to get from A to B. Car rental outlets are here in force, and the city’s taxis are metered, accept cards and cash, and are easy to flag from the roadside. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are another alternative. If you’re happy to spend time researching routes, Sharjah’s public Mowasalat buses are reliable, although verifying timetables can be difficult.
Shawarma—roasted meat sliced and stuffed into fluffy wraps—is a culinary institution in Sharjah and a must-try for visitors. Some of the best in town come courtesy of Laffah Restaurant near the city’s Al Majaz waterfront. Its chicken shawarma is famous for being super juicy, crispy, and generous. Max out on the carb front with a side of fried potato slices, another seasoned-to-perfection Laffah legend.
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Yes, Sharjah is absolutely worth visiting. The city has carved itself a niche as a cultural hub and boasts impressive mosques and waterfront parks. Head to the renovated Heart of Sharjah district, whose coral stone alleyways reveal museums and souks, and the outlying desert for camel treks, dune sports, and Bronze Age sites.
...MoreSharjah is known for its rich cultural scene, with museums celebrating its Islamic culture and Bedouin past, as well as art and heritage hubs. Other defining features include Sharjah’s vintage-style souks and leisurely vibe.
...MoreIf you’re planning to mix the beach with light sightseeing, a week in Sharjah is enough to unwind, sample some sights, and take a desert safari. However, to drill deeper into Sharjah’s cultural attractions, desert sports, and historical relics, two weeks is ideal.
...MoreNo, Sharjah is dry, meaning that drinking alcohol is illegal for visitors. You won’t find alcohol for sale anywhere, including in the city’s hotels, and carrying alcohol when you’re traveling through Sharjah isn’t permitted. To drink alcohol, head for the neighboring emirates of Ajman or Dubai, which allow it.
...MoreSharjah is the most conservative of the UAE’s emirates, so you should dress modestly. Swimwear is acceptable for the beach or pool, but in public places, men and women should cover their shoulders and knees and avoid wearing revealing, see-through, or tight clothing. Loose, lightweight garments are the comfiest in the heat, anyway.
...MoreSharjah and Dubai adjoin each other, so traveling between them is straightforward. You can drive or take a taxi from central Sharjah to Dubai International Airport or downtown Dubai in around 20 to 30 minutes. Organized tours are also popular for sightseeing in Dubai. Regular public buses also connect the cities, but they can be slow.
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