TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
If you are looking to soak up some culture, old-world charm and sunshine, look no further! Sharjah is the place for you. This historic old emirate, declared as the cultural capital of the Arab world by UNESCO in 1998 and endorsed as the capital of the Islamic culture in 2014, offers a variety of attractions to please everyone.
Sharjah is your gateway to authentic Arabic art, culture and ancient heritage. In the recent years, the emirate has reaffirmed its position on the global tourism map as one of the favourite destinations for millions of holidaymakers from all over the world, with its historical and cultural landmarks that include several award-winning museums.
Along with a clear focus on the restoration and preservation of important heritage sites, mosques and traditional old souks, a wealth of natural landscapes makes this emirate a premier outdoor activity tourism destination as well. Thrill seekers can indulge in activities such as sandboarding in the desert, desert adventure safaris that involve dune bashing, quad biking, camel rides and exploring wildlife. Unique tourist attractions like the ancient archaeological site of Mleiha, Al Majaz Waterfront, Eye of the Emirates wheel plus the captivating east coast, add to the emirate’s perfect mix of cultural, archeological landmarks and desert adventures.
Be sure to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Arabian desert, wander through the dunes on a camel trek, taste a cup of authentic Arabic coffee as the sun rises over the sands or have exciting and unusual adventures in pristine seas, ancient historical sites and challenging mountain ranges.
In Sharjah, you get to enjoy the authentic Arabian atmosphere which is rare to find in some of Gulf region’s ultra-modern cities. Visitors can also experience the stunning natural treasures of Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn, both within Sharjah, where they can enjoy the emirate’s natural beauty and participate in outdoor activities at mangroves, mountains and wadis. For the adrenaline junkies, the emirate’s east coast offers water sports like snorkelling and diving, Families exploring this coastline can also enjoy a wide range of accommodation from beach camps, motels, hotels and resorts, most with access to beaches, seas and pools.
Sharjah’s focus on historical and cultural preservation is most evident in the Heart of Sharjah area, where the region’s most extensive restoration project gives visitors a glimpse into life as it used to be in the Gulf. Carefully restored merchant’s houses, public squares and working souks surrounded by coral brick walls and carved wooden doors allow visitors to step back in time.
Visitors will surely want to click few pictures around the Sharjah Fountain, located in the Khalid Lagoon, one of the biggest fountains in the Gulf region, sending jets of water soaring up to 100 meters high in the air. Nearby, the piazza overlooks cybernetic fountains spanning more than 220 meters wide, allowing visitors to enjoy fountain shows that combine lasers, light, video, audio and movement.
Mleiha is a major tourist hub in Sharjah that captivates outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, families and explorers seeking a relaxing experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The centre unites archaeological, eco and adventure tourism while there are also spa and resort tourism projects in the pipeline. Begin your day at Mleiha with an informative tour that includes a short video explaining the history of the landscape and the details of artefacts discovered over the years. Bolstering its position as one of the UAE’s premier destinations for sightseeing and outdoor pursuits, Mleiha has an array of activities designed to satisfy tourists’ passion for adventure during the winter season. The destination also offers trekking or Polaris buggy rides across sand dunes and gravel plains.
The well-known Al Qasba entices visitors with a plethora of multi-cuisine restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating overlooking the canal. The ‘Eye of the Emirates’ is to be found here, a giant Ferris wheel that offers an aerial view of Sharjah Corniche, lagoons and landscape, extending its horizons as far as neighboring Dubai. Capable of carrying 336 passengers simultaneously in 42 air-conditioned cabins that go up to 60 meters high over Sharjah, ‘Eye of the Emirates’ will easily be one of the most memorable parts of your Sharjah experience.
For those interested in learning more about Sharjah’s flaura and fauna, The Wasit Wetland Centre, located on the Sharjah-Ajman, is a flourishing natural hub that allows visitors to take a closer look at rare birds and other wetland species. The natural lagoons of this reserve attract around 150 species of birds throughout the year.
Sharjah is also home to a number of private and public well-preserved, picturesque beaches. Al Khan Beach is the first public beach in Sharjah with various amenities designed for sports enthusiasts as well as guests who prefer relaxing on the beach. Located near Al Khan historic area, you will find a range of activities like kayaking, kite surfing, parasailing, banana boat rides and much more.
Khorfakkan, which also houses one of the world’s leading container transshipment ports, is a top spot for divers and offers a chance to see many unusual marine species. Shark Island here is a famous diving spot, with many sites in the coral outcroppings. Boats can also be hired here for a cruise along the coast. Other attractions in the region include Rifaisa Dam, souks, Al Wurrayah Falls and Hajar Mountains.
Kalba, a quaint fishing village on the seashore, is yet another major tourist attraction famed for the intriguing Khor Kalba creek, sandy beaches and the oldest natural mangrove forest in Arabia. The nature reserve of Kalba is also a bird-watcher’s paradise, especially during spring and autumn migrations. Rare Arabian-collared kingfishers booted warblers are often spotted here.
Step out of the daily monotony and seek the serenity of a destination housing old-world charm along with rich Islamic culture and traditions. Sharjah calls you!
