Sharjah – luxury holidays in the Middle East

The third largest of the seven emirates in the UAE is, compared to the most famous emirate - Dubai, a cultural region characterized by great history, and its capital, the city of Sharjah, is one of the most important historical cities in the country. It is rich in museums, the number of which constitutes 25% of the country's collections, and lovers of Middle Eastern culture, art and traditions will find their place here. It is not without reason that Sharjah was also recognized by UNESCO as the world capital of Arab culture, and in 2015 it was elected the capital of Arab tourism. From the 70th century until today, this emirate has been ruled by one family. Sharjah is an ideal place for a family holiday in the United Arab Emirates, as the region boasts two coastlines, a desert and mountainous areas in the eastern part, which is a holiday mecca for those looking for a diverse landscape. It is worth knowing that the discovery of oil deposits in the XNUMXs allowed both the city and the region to develop rapidly. Sharjah is also considered a more economical emirate than Dubai, which is why it is called "Dubai's bedroom".

What is worth seeing in Sharjah?

Sharjah Desert Park

Desert Park consists of several museums: Sharjah Natural History Museum, Sharjah Botanical Museum (small botanical garden) and Arabian Wildlife Center (zoo with animals found in the region). The most important part of the Desert Park, however, is the Arabian Wildlife Center, where you can meet reptiles, rodents, birds, mammals and all kinds of animals living in the United Arab Emirates.

Souq Al Arsah

This traditional indoor market is considered the oldest in the city and one of the most charming in the country. Apart from being perfect for a walk, it has great historical significance: it was a place where merchants from all over the world met to trade. Here you will find long corridors, hanging lanterns and hundreds of shops full of various goods.

Museum of Islamic Civilization

It is the first museum of its kind in the United Arab Emirates. The most interesting works from the collection of 5000 artifacts from the Islamic world are exhibited in spacious galleries.

Blue Suk

It is characterized by blue mosaics on the outside, in a typical Arab style. Inside you will find various types of products: gold, antiques, fabrics, carpets, etc. It is a very good place to buy souvenirs from your trip.

Fort Al-Hisn

Built in 1820, the fort was originally the residence of the emirate's leaders. Currently it houses a small museum.

Central souk

The central market consists of two large warehouses connected by an elevated bridge. At this market you can buy gold, antiques and carpets from Iran and other Arab countries.

Promenade

Officially called the Corniche, the charming promenade is one of Sharjah's main attractions. You'll see most visitors here in the late afternoon - it's usually too hot to walk around during the day. It's the perfect place to spend an active holiday with your family in Sharjah.

Al Noor Mosque

Although there are many mosques in Sharjah, the Al Noor Mosque is perfect for viewing at night. Located on the Corniche, it is one of the most important in the emirate. The architectural design of the Al Noor Mosque is influenced by classical Turkish Ottoman architecture. You will find elements similar to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul (also known as the Blue Mosque).