11 Best Places to Visit in Sharjah That Will Bring Wanderlust in You

If you were wonderstruck with Dubai’s flashy skyscrapers, swanky hotels and towering shopping malls, head to Sharjah for unique arts and vibrant culture. Unlike Dubai, Sharjah takes a more subtle approach as the city concentrates on history and culture. A paradise for art lovers, history buffs and culture vultures, Sharjah has an array of fascinating attractions that promise to keep your entire family engaged. Read on to know the best places to visit in Sharjah with your family.

Sharjah is dotted with awe-inspiring sightseeing opportunities, taking a Sharjah City Tour would be ideal to explore the places. If you are someone who delights in the exquisiteness of Arabic art and culture, no other place would match the elegance of Sharjah. (On a light note, Sharjah can be your next holiday destination if you can manage a couple of days without alcohol.)

Best Places to Visit in Sharjah with Kids and Parents

The third-largest and third most populous city in the UAE, Sharjah is a perfect family-friendly vacation destination. It is magnificently peppered with museums, art galleries, archaeological sites, and heritage areas and its efforts to preserve its rich heritage and history; all of these convinced UNESCO to declare the city the Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998. Its recognition was reaffirmed in the year 2014 when it became the capital of Islamic Culture.

Top Tourist Attractions in Sharjah

Let’s delve deeper and unearth the most striking places to visit in Sharjah.

1. Sharjah Archaeology Museum: From the spectacular artifacts to remarkable excavations, the Sharjah Archaeology Museum has exhibits that will take you down the memory lane where you will witness the centuries-old civilizations developed in the region. Displays from the Ubaid period and the Stone Age section adorn the museum. Sneaking into the Bronze Age Hall will give glimpses of metals, pottery, jewellery and stone.

2. Sharjah Arts Museum: You are an art aficionado and wish to experience authentic Arabic artworks? Make your way to the Sharjah Arts Museum, one of the largest art museums in the UAE. Embrace the splendour of the most valuable Arab artworks at the Sharjah Arts Museum, which also houses a wide range of permanent collection and temporary exhibits.

3. Sharjah Heritage Area: Dotted with several museums, including Al Midfaa House, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, Sharjah Heritage Museum, and Hisn Fort, the Sharjah Heritage Area exudes an Old Sharjah feeling. Wander around the heritage area, take in the outstanding local architecture, adorn your Instagram page with photos at Fort Al Hisn, and shop till you drop in a small souk.

4. Sharjah Science Museum: Do you have kids in the group? Take them to this beautiful museum that will surely equip young tots with many imperative, fascinating information related to science. Not only will your little champs be hooked for hours, but visitors will also be busy in activities like building puzzles, grip strength, etc.

5. Al Noor Island: Al Noor Island is a public park located in the Khalid Lagoon, which flourished with sprawling gardens enveloped by beautiful modern art installations. The park can be accessed by a bridge from the central city’s Corniche Street.

6. Al Noor Mosque: The only mosque open to non-Muslims, the Al Noor Mosque welcomes everyone keens on learning about the Islamic beliefs and the heritage of the United Arab Emirates.

7. Sharjah Aquarium & Maritime Museum: When you have had enough of arts, culture, history and architecture, it is time to get an insight into Sharjah’s maritime world of wonder. Besides being an important family attraction, the Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Maritime Museum is often referred to as one of the largest educational centres in the country. Occupying an area of 6,500 sq. m., it has 20 different aquariums.

8. Sharjah Natural History Museum and Desert Park: Yet another family-friendly attraction in the beautiful Arab city, the Sharjah Natural History Museum and Desert Park will give a dose of learning about various flora and fauna.

9. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Opened in 2008, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization has been a major point of interest in the city, boasting over 5,000 artifacts dating from the seventh to the nineteenth centuries. It is a great place to dive into the deep roots of Islamic culture. Some of the fascinating items on display are calligraphy, ceramics, glass, metalwork, carvings, coins, scientific instruments, and manuscripts.

10. Central Market: A Sharjah holiday is never complete without a trip to its Central Market. The iconic landmark is nicknamed as the Blue Souk or Souq – for its intricate blue tile design on the exteriors of the buildings. This vibrant shopping paradise is comprised of more than 600 shops ranging from jewellery, electronics and clothes to perfume, gifts and food.

11. Khalid Lagoon: One of the top-notch places to visit in Sharjah, Khalid Lagoon, nestled at the heart of the city, is important sightseeing offering a magical experience. The third-highest fountain in the world, the Lagoon turns into a spectacular scene no sooner the sun sets into the west. After indulging in all the activities, shopping and dining, you may like to unwind while witnessing the brilliant fountain pumping water up to several meters up in the air.