Sharjah is the third largest city in the United Arab Emirates and sits within the emirate of the same name. It is best known as the country's cultural capital, a reputation built on its museums, art galleries and traditional Islamic architecture. Its Arabic name is الشارقة, also written Ash Shariqah.
What a visit offers
- Museums and galleries: The city's museums and art spaces are the main reason many visitors come, and they suit anyone interested in art, heritage and the region's history.
- Islamic architecture: Traditional Islamic buildings give the city a distinct character, and walking among them is a calm way to see how the emirate has kept its older forms.
- A cultural atmosphere: Compared with the emirate's neighbours, Sharjah is often described as the more reflective side of the UAE, with an emphasis on learning and the arts.
Planning your trip
Sharjah lies in the northern part of the country, and the museums and galleries make a natural focus for a day or more. Because the city is built around its cultural life, it works well for visitors who want to combine a few well-chosen sights with time to wander. Check the current opening times of individual museums and galleries before you set out, as these can change.
