Sharjah is known for its rich cultural heritage, numerous museums, traditional souks, and beautiful Islamic architecture. It's celebrated as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO and offers a quieter, more culturally immersive experience compared to its neighboring emirate, Dubai.
No, you typically do not need a separate visa for Sharjah if you have a Dubai visa. The United Arab Emirates has a unified visa policy, which means that a visa for one emirate is valid for all others, including Sharjah.
Top tourist attractions in Sharjah include the Sharjah Art Museum, Al Noor Mosque, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Al Qasba canal-front complex, Arabian Wildlife Center, Sharjah Heritage Area, and the Central Souk (Blue Souk).
The best time to visit Sharjah is from October to April when the weather is cooler and more suitable for outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot and less comfortable for tourists.
Sharjah is a dry emirate, which means that the sale, possession, and consumption of alcohol are strictly prohibited. Therefore, tourists are not able to drink alcohol in Sharjah.
Yes, Sharjah is known for being family-friendly with many attractions suitable for children, including Al Montazah Parks, Sharjah Aquarium, Sharjah Desert Park, and various family-friendly beaches.
Tourists can get around Sharjah by taxis, ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber, or by renting a car. There's also a public bus network available for transportation within the emirate.
Some traditional foods that visitors should try in Sharjah include Shawarma, Hummus, Falafel, Al Harees, Al Machboos, and sweets like Kunafa and Baklava. Many traditional eateries and restaurants in Sharjah offer these dishes.
Yes, Sharjah hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals including the Sharjah Light Festival, Sharjah Biennial for Contemporary Art, Sharjah International Book Fair, and the Sharjah Heritage Days, which celebrate Emirati culture and history.
While it is not necessary for tourists to wear traditional clothing, it is advisable to dress conservatively. Clothing covering the shoulders and knees is expected out of respect for local culture and customs, and women might need to cover their hair when visiting mosques.
