Sharjah Holidays
"Sharjah is like a traveller's time-machine offering a beguiling mix of traditional Arab-world history, culture & hospitality and the ultra-modern"
The third-largest of the emirates of the UAE, Sharjah is more traditionally-focused than it's glitzy next-door-neighbours of Dubai and Abu Dhabi - easily accessible by road or public transport - although visitors will still find the shops & entertainment, skyscrapers and warm welcome the region is famous for. Sharjah has earnt something of a reputation for being the UAE's cultural capital (UNESCO named it their 'Capital of Islamic Culture' in 2014) and there are plenty of fascinating heritage sites, mosques, galleries and museums to explore, crowned by the impressive Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization containing over five thousand historic artefacts from across the Islamic world. Sharjah is the only emirate to have coastlines on both the east and west of the peninsula so there are plenty of opportunities to explore some magnificent beaches, as well enjoying the outdoor activities offered by the spectacular mountains and deserts of the interior central region.
Athena
United Arab Emirates Holiday Specialist
Get in Touch
We love creating perfect holidays for our clients. Start planning your dream trip today by talking to one of our Destination Specialists.
020 8340 7612
Hotels In Sharjah
Occidental Sharjah Grand
Sharjah | UAE
Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa
Sharjah | UAE
Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah
Sharjah | UAE
Sharjah Travel Guide
At A Glance:
Sharjah inFocus
Location
With a population of over one million and covering an area of over two and a half thousand square kilometres, Sharjah is the third-largest of the seven emirates which make up the United Arab Emirates. it is located to the north of Dubai and Abu Dhabi with coastlines on both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman on the east and west of the peninsula.
Weather
Sharjah has an arid desert climate that makes it sunny and hot throughout the year. It only gets around 12 centimetres of rain per year, meaning that you won’t have to worry about getting wet during your holiday. The best time to visit are spring and autumn, when the temperatures are around 25 degrees and it is not outrageously hot. In the summer they can scale 42 degrees, making it difficult to explore all the wonders that the city has to offer.
History & Culture
Archaeological evidence dating human life in the UAE as far back as 85,000 BCE was discovered at Jebel Fayah in Sharjah in the mid-twentieth century - visitors can see many of these finds at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum. Traditionally relying on the ocean for prosperity, Sharjah became the leading port in the region in the 18th century, renowned for its fishing, dhow-building, pearl-divers and trading network. Sharjah has been ruled by members of the Al Qasimi tribe since the 17th century.
Family Activities
From shopping in traditional markets and souks, enjoying a day at a popular waterpark, such as the epic Pearls Kingdom or enjoying one of the many beaches and watersports to be found on either coast, there is plenty for families to enjoy in Sharjah. There are opportunities for outdoor thrill-seekers to enjoy desert safari or try their hand at dune-skiing whilst the Island of Legends has a variety of thrilling rides and activities for children of all ages.
Tours & Attractions
A great way to first explore Sharjah City is to take one of the many City Sightseeing Tours which visit the many highlights including the historic Heart of Sharjah which provides an atmospheric look at old Sharjah or the modern waterfront of Al Majaz with its soaring skyscrapers and multitude of restaurants and opportunities to further explore by taking a boat trip around the area. Visitors can get a true taste of Middle Eastern flavours with a trip to the Date Souk to sample the many varieties of fresh and dried dates on offer. The tropical biosphere and butterfly house on Noor Island are popular attractions with families, whilst the spectacular Al Noor Mosque is an iconic local landmark and place of worship open to the public. UNESCO have designated Sharjah their 'Capital of Islamic Culture' and the emirate is home to many of the regions finest and most interesting museums and sites including the must-see Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization whilst the Sharjah Archaeology and Sharjah Maritime museums are both worthy of a visit to learn about Sharjah's rich history and culture. Of course there are multiple ways to experience this bewitching region's sights and sounds but we would recommend checking out an all-day 4x4 off-road desert excursion, scuba-diving or snorkelling the Indian Ocean in Khorfakkan or camping out amongst the desert stars to truly get a feel for this magical land.
Entertainment
Sharjah is home to a wealth of high-end and more traditional dining and entertainment options. It is a ‘dry’ emirate where the sale or consumption of alcohol is prohibited and overall it is a more subtle and laid-back destination than Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Shopping
Home to modern malls and traditional Arab souks there are plenty of opportunities for shoppers to find a bargain in Sharjah. Jewellery lovers will enjoy browsing the Rolla Gold Market and Sharjah Gold Centre whilst casual shoppers will enjoy the ambiance of the waterfront Souq Al Jubail and it's bustling meat and fish markets. Mega Mall is a typical modern shopping centre with over 150 outlets and various restaurants and entertainment available it promises to keep the family occupied for the whole day!
Agadir Holiday Blogs
Special Offers in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E
A small collection of our Top Special Offers which have been hand-picked especially for you...
