Sharjah has probably the most colourful history of all the emirates. From the first settlement that dates back 6,000 years, natural wealth combined with foresight has allowed this ancient city to enjoy prosperity and vitality while retaining the charms and values of an islamic city.
The only emirate with a coastline and ports both on the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, Sharjah is home to some of the most interesting architectural heritage in the country. Recognized by UNESCO as the ‘Cultural Capital of the Arab World’, the cultural and historical heritage of the region is on display in its fine museums. The main museums include the Islamic Museum, showcasing different aspects of Islamic Heritage and Sharjah Art Museum, containing the personal collection of the present ruler of sharjah, including valuable paintings, historic documents and maps.
Sharjah is known for its souks, like the iranian bazaar and Al Majarrah souk. Sharjah is also home to the dark green mangroves on Khor Kalba, the oldest forests in Arabia. Crabs of all descriptions, nesting reef herons and the endangered white collared Kingfisher can all be found here. Other attractions in Sharjah include its clean beaches, Khalid lagoon, a man-made inlet from which spouts the world’s third highest fountain, two ice rinks that are open year-
Renowned throughout the Arab world for its commitment to art, culture and preserving the local heritage, this emirate is the place to visit for exploring. Experience and discover the secrets of a unique Arabian lifestyle and islamic culture. sharjah offers an impressive array of over twenty museums, several art galleries and beautifully restored heritage areas.
In Sharjah, a museum is a reservoir of man’s past inherited experience to nurture the ambitions of the present and next generation. It is a place where the entire family can visit and enjoy together the pride of the traditional past, to have fun and educate through interactive handson exhibits. To develop a future scientific profession and an analytical way of thinking, be sure not miss the sharjah Archaeology Museum, Sharjah Natural History Museum, Arabian Wildlife Centre, Sharjah Science Museum, Discovery Centre, Sharjah Islamic Museum and Heritage Area. The Sharjah Heritage Museum is a combination of several museums and includes souk Al Arsah, an old souk restored with great charm and traditional style. it is located just behind the waterfront in old sharjah.
The Al naboodah family house has been converted into the heritage museum. Each room has a different theme and displays jewellery, costumes and artifacts of the period.
The Al Midfaa family house is a charmingly restored building in a quiet area behind the souk.
The Al Hisn fort was the traditional residence of the ruling family of sharjah. sheikh sultan bin saqr Al Qassimi, “The First”, built the fort nearly 200 years ago and it was the centre of all developmental activities in the Emirates of sharjah. It displays contents that cover the history of Sharjah.
The Sharjah Art Museum, established in 1995 under the Art Directorate of the Department of Culture & information, was housed in bait Al serkal, Al shuwaihiyeen area until 1997. The new building of the Sharjah Art Museum was constructed in the area to integrate with the heritage buildings. It was completed and inaugurated on April 9th, 1997. It is located in the heart of Sharjah city and fully designated to the fine arts and art-related activities, the museum displays a permanent collection of art on the ground floor. Since its opening, thirty-three solo and group exhibitions and other related activities have been held at the venue.
Sharjah’s shopping malls include the 500,000 square feet Sahara Centre, the 400,000 square feet Sharjah Mega Mall and Majid Al Futtaim’s City Centre. Most well-known brands are available here and numerous coffee shops and food courts provide a range of local and international delicacies.
Built according to islamic design, this iconic building makes a fascinating destination for both its shopping and its architecture. A wide array of shops selling electronics, gold, fashion and antiques, spices, perfume and souvenirs reside here. Its location on the famous Khaled lagoon enhances its beauty and magnificence and the nearby vegetable market and fish souk must not be missed.
This waterside venue has evolved as a perfect community location to the UAE residents and visitors and is one of the key tourist, cultural and entertainment destinations in the Emirate of sharjah. Occupying an area of 10,000 acres, QAQ comprises of a water canal of a depth of 5 metres and a length of 1,000 metres.