Whether you live in the UAE or plan a weekend getaway from Dubai, Sharjah is one of the UAE’s most family-friendly destinations blending fun, learning, and affordability. From science parks and interactive museums to beach playgrounds and animal encounters, every corner offers something entertaining for children.
This Sharjah Travel Guide 2026 curates tested ideas for schooling families, toddlers, and teens based on recent updates from VisitSharjah.com and UNESCO’s referenced “Sharjah Child Friendly City” designation. Let’s explore the best things to do in Sharjah with kids, including family activities, parks, waterfront attractions, and educational centres that turn travel into discovery.
Top Family Attractions in Sharjah (2026)
Sharjah Discovery Centre
Dedicated entirely to children aged 3–12, this hands-on science museum lets kids “become pilots”, “build bridges”, and “film TV shows”. Each zone teaches physics and creativity through play. Recently renovated in 2025 with AR zones and STEM labs.
- Entry: AED 10
- Timings: 9 AM–6 PM
- Location: Al Abar Area
Sharjah Aquarium & Maritime Museum
Home to 250+ marine species native to the Arabian Gulf, the Sharjah Aquarium merges learning with fun. Kids love the touch tanks and interactive diver shows. The adjoining Maritime Museum displays ancient dhows and treasure maps.
- Tip: Visit on Wednesdays for family discounts (under 12 free).
- Location: Al Khan Area
Al Noor Island (Butterfly House)
Bring the family to a fairy-tale landscape filled with butterflies, botanical gardens, and art trails. The Butterfly House hosts over 500 species and offers designated photo booths for children.
- Best time: Late afternoon or evening
- Starting from: AED 35/child
Sharjah Science Museum
Perfect for school trips or rainy days, this museum introduces concepts like light, sound, and space through more than 60 hands-on exhibits. The Astronomy Gallery expands in 2026 with a mini planetarium show called “Journey to Mars.”
Sharjah Desert Park & Arabia’s Wildlife Centre
A full-day family excursion! Watch Arabian leopards, desert cats, and gazelles in eco-friendly enclosures. Adjacent centres include a Children’s Farm (pony rides and feeding sessions).
- Price: AED 15/adult, AED 5/child (3–12)
- Location: E88 Road to Dhaid
Outdoor Fun & Park Adventures
Al Majaz Waterfront Park
An iconic spot for families in Sharjah! It offers biking tracks, mini boating, kid trains, and the renowned Sharjah Musical Fountain show. Expect weekly events throughout 2026 like “Mini Chef Weekends” and outdoor movie nights.
- Nearby dining: Al Fanar Restaurant or Zahr El Laymoun Café
Al Montazah Parks (Water & Island of Legends)
Two parks in one — a water park with slides and lazy river plus a European-themed amusement park. Kids under 80 cm go free.
- New attraction 2026: VR Pirate Ship Zone
- Price: AED 150 Combo Pass
- Timings: 10 AM–10 PM
Sharjah National Park
Families’ favourite picnic spot off E88 highway featuring bike rentals, BBQ huts, mini zoo, and roller-skating areas. Go early on winter Fridays to secure tables.
- Best season: Oct–Mar
- Entry: Free
Khorfakkan Beach Day Trip
Just 90 minutes east of Sharjah city, Khorfakkan is a blue-flag beach with lifeguards, water sports, and playgrounds. Kids can try kayaking or spot crabs at low tide. End with ice cream from “Ocean View Café.”
Mleiha Archaeological Centre (Family Adventure)
Mix history and adventure together. Families can book jeep tours through ancient fossil beds, camel farms, and dune slopes. Child-safe camping packages include stargazing.
- Family package: AED 295
- Location: Mleiha Desert (45 minutes from city)
Educational & Indoor Experiences
House of Wisdom
A modern library where kids love the creative learning zones, robotic storytelling sessions, and Maker Space area. Parents get peace in the Zen Garden Café.
- Timings: 9 AM–10 PM
- Entry: Free
Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival
Held annually in April at Expo Centre Sharjah, this festival hosts book signings, cosplay, reading workshops, and robotics corners.
Entry: Free (all ages)
Rain Room – Sharjah Art Foundation
Not just for grownups! Children find endless fun walking through falling rain without getting wet. Bring a spare shirt anyway.
Tickets: AED 25
Sharjah Archaeology Museum
Exhibits old pearling tools and ancient coins. Great visual history lesson for school-age kids interested in the emirate’s past.
Where to Stay for Families in Sharjah
Choose family-oriented hotels with pools, kids’ clubs, and spacious rooms:
- Centro Sharjah by Rotana – Next to airport | Kids pool & connecting rooms
- Coral Beach Resort Sharjah – Beachfront | Kids’ water slides & play area
- Pullman Sharjah – Al Khan | Children’s menu & babysitting
- DoubleTree by Hilton Sharjah – Lagoon view | Family rooms & indoor pool
- Novotel Sharjah Expo Centre – Expo location | Free kids stay under 16 policy
One-Day Family Itinerary (Weekend Plan 2026)
- Morning: Sharjah Discovery Centre → Science Museum
- Noon: Lunch at Al Majaz Waterfront
- Afternoon: Al Montazah Parks ride session
- Evening: Stroll at Corniche → Musical Fountain Show
- Optional: Add Noor Island if kids are still energetic!
Helpful Tips for Travelling with Kids
- Carry light snacks and hats. Sharjah sun can be strong midday.
- Public transport (styled buses, Careem rides) is safe and affordable.
- Almost all attractions feature baby-changing rooms and play zones.
- Winter season (Oct–Apr) is ideal for outdoor activities.
FAQs
What are the best places to visit in Sharjah with kids?
Sharjah Discovery Centre, Al Montazah Parks, and Noor Island top the list.
Is Sharjah family-friendly for toddlers and babies?
Yes, most malls and hotel resorts provide nursery rooms and baby facilities.
Where can kids learn and play at the same time?
Science Museum and Discovery Centre offer STEM activities for all ages.
Is there a zoo in Sharjah?
Yes, there’s Arabia’s Wildlife Centre inside Sharjah Desert Park.
Are there free things to do with kids in Sharjah?
Public parks, Corniche walks, and Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival are free
Best water parks for kids?
Al Montazah Water Park and Coral Beach Resort pool facilities.
What about indoor fun during summer?
Discovery Centre, Science Museum, and House of Wisdom are fully air-conditioned.
Is Khorfakkan good for families?
Yes, it has a clean beach, playgrounds, and snorkeling.
Can we rent baby gear in Sharjah?
Yes, services like Little Travellers UAE offer stroller rentals.
Are family rooms available in Sharjah hotels?
Absolutely, many offer connecting rooms and under-12 stay-free deals.
