Sharjah – the UAE’s third largest Emirate and home to some of the most important cultural attractions in the country – should be on your bucket lists at all costs. The setting sun brings along a great array of hues to soak in – from gold and crimson during the sunset to beautiful, dazzling lights as the night comes up. From scenic natural beauty to museums and indulgent dining outlets, there is a long list of beautiful places to visit in Sharjah 2025 for solo travellers, couples and families alike.
Sharjah is not going to leave you disappointed. You can book your flight to Sharjah Airport, one of the busiest hubs in all of the UAE. But if you are not finding a flight to Sharjah, there is a huge chance of it landing at Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the busiest airports globally. Sharjah’s proximity to the bustling Dubai also adds to its allure as it becomes easily accessible for people from different parts of the globe because of easy transport options from Dubai to Sharjah. From buses and taxis to ferries, you get all modes of transport at ease.
Sharjah is famous for its museums. In fact, some of the best museums in UAE are located in Sharjah, including Sharjah Science Museum, Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Musuem, and Sharjah Maritime Museum. But that’s not all there is to the best places to visit in Sharjah.
This Emirate also boasts of incredible landmarks like Mleiha National Park, Al Madam Buried Village and Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre; serene beaches Al Hamriyah Beach and Al Heera Beach; and buzzing hiking trails like Mleiha Fossil Rock Hiking Trail and Al Rabi Hiking Trail – in addition to shopping malls and plenty of thrilling things to do. Let’s take a deeper look at the most important experiences in Sharjah for people of all ages and preferences.
Top reasons to visit Sharjah in 2025
For a rich blend of culture, history and heritage, come to Sharjah. You get access to a lot of unique experiences and destinations. There are three main areas to explore – Sharjah City, Central Region and East Coast – each offering a different kind of experience.
Sharjah City skillfully combines ancient heritage and modern family-friendly attractions, as the UAE’s UNESCO Cultural Capital. The Central Region, on the other hand, offers an engaging landscape of desert sands and rocky mountains. The scenery, of course, is unmatchable. Finally, the East Coast of Sharjah – meet rugged mountains, serene beaches, mangrove forests and desert landscapes. You are going to find it all and much more in Sharjah. This place is surreal and a rising tourist destination in the Middle East.
Some people might tell you that summer temperatures in Sharjah can be pretty brutal and that you should rather postpone your trip to the cooler months from October to March. They are not lying about the temperatures. But please keep in mind that there are plenty of indoor attractions in Sharjah, too, making it possible for you to explore interesting places both during the daytime and nights. Do not fall for the myth that Sharjah is not for the summer. It is a year-round destination – and so is the UAE in its entirety.
Coming to the top reasons to visit Sharjah, let me first highlight Sharjah’s rich history and heritage. The traditional craft shops, restored heritage buildings and cultural ambiance all around make Sharjah one of the best places to explore in the entire Middle East. But let’s not forget the relaxing promenades and corniches in the Emirate – perfect for leisurely strolls in the evening, dining at cafes or just soaking in the scenery. These are family-friendly attractions in Sharjah, great for groups and casual tourists. For those looking to add a thrilling angle to their trips, explore Sharjah’s unique heritage-meets-desert & nature experiences. There are desert safaris, stargazing, dune bashing and so much more to see. Lastly, Sharjah is located at the perfect distance from Dubai, making the Emirate more accessible for all.
Best places to visit in Sharjah 2025
For your Sharjah itinerary, you need to spare at least three days as this Emirate has a lot to see and do. From its vibrant coastal charm to serene hiking trails, shopping malls, souks, museums and other cultural attractions, there are a lot of interesting places to visit in Sharjah. Let us take a look at some of the best ones to make it easier for you to plan your trip.
1. Al Hamriyah Beach – Both thrill and leisure in one place
Al Hamriyah Beach is not just about the sand or the sea breeze. It is about enjoyment for people of all ages and preferences. This place is one of the most accessible destinations in Sharjah, featuring all necessary amenities. There is an extensive range of things to do here, not limited to contemplation. You can play volleyball & football and do some leisurely journaling (something you have been procrastinating on for a long time, perhaps). There are children’s play areas, restrooms and parking lots, too.
2. Al Heera Beach – Skateparks, dining and leisurely strolls
Extending for a length of 3.5 km along the Arabian Gulf, Al Heera Beach is the longest beach in Sharjah City and one of the best beaches in the UAE. You can find a jogging track, bicycle track, sports fields, children’s play areas and so much more. But that’s not all. Al Heera Beach is also home to the first professional skate park in Sharjah – called the ‘Kota Skate Park’. The beachfront promenade here is extremely beautiful. You can also find plenty of retail and F&B outlets, in addition to car parking, sports courts and fields, children’s play areas, prayer rooms and more. You are not going to be disappointed at all.
3. Natural History and Botanical Musuem – Extraordinary experiences
This needs to be a part of your Sharjah itinerary. The Natural History and Botanical Musuem offers a lot of key information on species and ecosystems in the Arabian Peninsula, displaying fossils, meteorites, taxidermic displays of rare animals and desert ecosystems, and so much more. You can also find dozens of different species of native plants here, making it a scenic setting featuring the best flora and fauna in the region. This museum is located in Sharjah Desert Park, also featuring a breeding centre for endangered animals and a petting zoo in the children’s area.
4. Sharjah Desert Park – Petting farm & botanical garden in focus
Perfect for families and children, Sharjah Desert Park is one of the best places to visit in Sharjah. You can find a petting farm, a botanical garden and a breeding centre for endangered animals rescued from the desert habitat. The breeding ground is not open to public, but considering there are enough things around to keep the entire family busy, this park is one of the best tourist attractions in Sharjah. Your kids are going to adore this place and remember the experience for a pretty long time.
5. Sharjah Safari – Majestic species up close
Located on Sharjah-Khorfakkan Road, Sharjah Safari is one of the most fun things to do in the UAE. You get to see different species of birds and animals up close. Different areas in Sharjah Safari, such as Serengeti and Savannah, represent the terrain of different continents and the species that reside in them. There are multiple dining options located in Zanzibar Village and Safari Camp. Make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen and great pair of sunglasses as the sun is no joke in Sharjah. Nonetheless, cooler months of October to March tend to see a substantial reduction in temperatures. The nearest airport, Sharjah International, is located at 42 km from the Safari. You are going to have a really fun time here and no less.
6. Sahara Centre Sharjah – Delightful retail therapy
Strategically located near key areas of the city, such as Al Nahda and Mamzar, Sahara Centre Sharjah is one of the best shopping malls in Sharjah-Dubai region for both families and solo tourists. You can find a great selection of retail brands here. Check for the latest sales, offers and promotions to shop at incredible prices. The dining scene at Sahara Centre Sharjah is also all sorted, featuring cafes, fast food outlets, restaurants and dessert offerings – all in one place. Let’s not forget the entertainment offerings, including Novo Cinemas Sharjah, Adventureland and Flipped. The closest metro station is Etisalat MS, keeping you close to the mall and other fun things to do in the Dubai-Sharjah border area.
7. Al Madam Buried Village – History never looked this fun to explore
Excited to explore a secret village in Sharjah buried in the dunes? Mystery surrounds Al Madam Buried Village – a small abandoned village (gradually being consumed by the desert area). This is an exciting place for thrill-seekers, lovers, explorers and photographers. Built as part of a public housing project after the 1971 formation of the UAE, the Buried Village used to be the home of members of a Bedouin tribe. But a couple of decades later, the residents had all left the village. You might be able to capture a feel of the nomadic experience people in this region used to have. Make sure to bring a good camera along.
8. Mleiha National Park – Thrill and scenery in perfect harmony
This ancient archeological site in Sharjah is going to bring you closer to the UAE’s history and culture. Located in the Central Region of Sharjah, the Mleiha National Park is home to a lot of fun things to do. You can go on a guided tour of the Umm an-Nar tomb to look deeper into the history of ancient Bedouin tribes much before modern Emirati culture. Then, check out Fossil Rock, a huge rock formation full of marine fossils. Make sure to engage in one of the many thrilling things to do here, such as trekking, hiking, dune bashing, quad bike riding and paragliding. You can also spend some time stargazing at Mleiha National Park, simultaneously being surrounded by beautiful sand dune formations. Isn’t it incredible?
9. Al Montazah Parks – Amusement park that thoroughly amuses
There is a great collection of thrilling theme parks in Sharjah and Al Montazah Parks is definitely one of them. Perfect for family fun, this place has amusement rides, picnic areas and more. Some of the top things to do at Al Montazah Parks are enjoying a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants, try out go-karting, have a picnic, visit the Flag Island Amphitheatre and take a leisurely trip to the boating lake. Being located in the centre of Sharjah, this place is easily accessible from different parts of the UAE. You can bring your family along, including grandparents, as Al Montazah Parks is perfect for multigenerational travel.
10. City Centre Al Zahia – Full dose of shopping and entertainment
One of the latest shopping malls in Sharjah, City Centre Al Zahia offers retail therapy, dining options and entertainment delights all under a single roof. There is a 12,700-square-meters Carrefour Hypermarket, leisure options like VOX Cinemas and entertainment destinations like Magic Planet. Many popular retail brands are here, in addition to plenty of food and beverage options for people of different preferences. Basically, talk about a complete package.
11. Central Souk (Blue Souk) – Get a souk experience in Sharjah
Sharjah is home to the best shopping experiences. There are plenty of malls in the Emirate, there is no doubt about it. But the souk scene is also all sorted. The Central Souk (Blue Souk) is famous for its blue tile-trimmed facade and is easily one of the best Instagrammable places in all of the city. Featuring more than 600 shops, this traditional souk has local trinkets, key souvenirs and more. Make sure to check the upper level for arts, crafts and regional specialities. You can also find shops dedicated to precious stones, gold and diamond. It is located near the Sharjah Corniche and remains open till 10:00 PM daily.
12. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization – Fun and insightful all at the same time
It is definitely not possible to skip Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization from this list of best places to visit in Sharjah 2025. Home to thousands of rare and important Islamic artifacts, this prominent museum is located on the Corniche, just north of the Heart of Sharjah district. The ground-floor galleries cover aspects of the Islamic faith and some important progress made by Arab scientists and astronomers. The upper floors, on the other hand, feature Islamic arts and crafts, including textiles and ornaments. Do not miss the gold embroidered curtain for the door of the Holy Ka’ba and the mosaic found inside the central dome detailing different zodiac constellations. You are going to have a really fun and insightful time here.
13. Sharjah Aquarium – Explore marine life up close
Someone has truly said that Sharjah Aquarium is the best place to “marvel at deep sea aquatic animals thriving in perfectly recreated habitats”. You can find 20 different tanks here, all recreating different local aquatic settings, such as rock pools, mangroves and coral reefs. The place is beautiful and there are plenty of marine animals to check out. Your kids are going to adore this place, for sure. If you are planning to visit Sharjah Aquarium during the night time, make sure to catch a glimpse of the surreal sunset at Al Khan Beach first. Then, take a quick tour of the aquarium. Your ticket also includes access to the Sharjah Maritime Museum.
14. Mleiha Fossil Rock Hiking Trail – Tiring yet peaceful
There are different hiking trails in Sharjah and the Mleiha Fossil Rock Hiking Trail is definitely one of the most important ones. This 6 km trail near Kalba takes you through the Emirate’s geological history. You need to navigate plenty of sand dunes and rocky terrain to uncover marine fossils dating back millions of years. Doesn’t it sound so interesting? The route has some steep sections and intermediate hikers are going to love the 2-3 hour challenge. Please keep in mind that there is no shade on this route. Therefore, start on Mleiha Fossil Rock Hiking Trail early morning or late afternoon. Bring comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes or boots, hats and sunblock and comfortable clothes. Make sure to remain hydrated all the time.
15. Al Rafisah Hiking Trail – These terrains are enchanting
This route is demanding, but the scenery you get to see throughout the journey and at the end is absolutely breathtaking. Al Rafisah Hiking Trail in Sharjah is a gift to the committed hiker. You get a 3-hour round trip to the Al Suhab Rest Houses and back. The combination of ancient terrain and intriguing rock formations are going to keep you occupied throughout your hike. Make sure to remain hydrated all the time. Pack in a set of comfortable clothes and put on sturdy hiking shoes or boots. You can also carry a small medical kit along.
16. Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club – A complete package
Step out of your comfort zone at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club. This list of best places to visit in Sharjah 2025 is not complete if I don’t add this entity to the list. Pursue your health and fitness goals here. You can engage in traditional exercise methods or try out something fresh. You can try your hands on golf, archery, paintball, shooting, gym, spa, CrossFit, escape room, and more. There are also restaurants and cafes here, so your energy levels do not deplete after a round of fun games and sports. Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club is located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, just before Exit 71, in the northeast of the city. You can find a number of body and facial treatments at the spa here, in addition to a menu of medi-spa offerings. Indulge in a total mind, body and spirit overhaul. You are going to remember this experience for a long time.
17. Sharjah Mosque – More than 5 years in the making
Sharjah Mosque – the largest in the Emirate – opened its doors in 2019. More than 5 years in the making, Sharjah Mosque is an abiding symbol of faith. From the main prayer hall and surrounding gardens to a gift shop, cafeteria, open areas and more, each corner of this mosque is an architectural masterpiece. You can also find a number of tourists from different parts of the globe, exploring the place in all its glory. It is located around a 20 minutes drive from Sharjah City. Make sure to add it to your Sharjah itinerary.
Best cultural attractions in Sharjah
Cultural attractions in Sharjah make you realise the importance of this Emirate. From the beautiful Sharjah Mosque and Sharjah Musuem of Islamic Civilization to the culturally-rich souks and more, the list is only expanding. Sharjah is the cultural heart of the UAE, recognised by UNESCO as the Capital of Islamic Culture (2014). You can find a great collection of heritage, art and tradition here. From ancient archaeology to contemporary crafts, the masterpieces do not fail to amuse both tourists and residents alike.
| Cultural Attractions in Sharjah | Highlights | Location |
| Sharjah Mosque | Largest mosque in Sharjah – more than 5 years in the making | Click Here |
| Sharjah Maritime Museum | Explore deep sea life in Sharjah up close | Click Here |
| Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization | Home to thousands of rare Islamic artifacts | Click Here |
| Souq Al Arsah | Oldest marketplace in UAE’s history | Click Here |
| Sharjah Resistance Monument | Explore the story of Khorfakkan’s people in an authentic manner | Click Here |
| Flag Island | UAE Flag on a 123-meter-high pole | Click Here |
| Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad al Qasimi | One of the most beautiful heritage houses, located on the East Coast | Click Here |
Best family-friendly attractions in Sharjah
Holding a great number of cultural attractions in the UAE, Sharjah is home to a lot of experiences for people of different ages. You can easily find a bunch of family-friendly attractions in Sharjah, including cultural exploration, desert safaris, beach fun and outdoor access. Let us take a look at some of the important ones, making it easier for you to plan your Sharjah itinerary and go on that much-needed trip.
| Family-Friendly Attractions in Sharjah | Highlights | Location |
| Al Hamriyah Beach | Explore the longest beach in Sharjah City at leisure | Click Here |
| Al Hefaiyah Lake | You can find hiking trails, Al Hefaiyah Mosque and more | Click Here |
| City Centre Al Zahia | One of the best shopping malls in Sharjah | Click Here |
| Dr Sultan al-Qasimi Centre | Find a rich collection of ancient maps, manuscripts and more | Click Here |
| Hanging Gardens in Kalba | Nature at its peak here at Hanging Gardens in Kalba | Click Here |
| Hisn Khorfakkan | The ancient history of Khorfakkan is going to come alive | Click Here |
| Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre | Explore the oldest mangrove forest in the UAE | Click Here |
Best beaches in Sharjah – Vitamin Sea in abundance
There is no scarcity of beautiful beaches in the UAE, including in Sharjah. From the city-based stretches like Al Heera and Al Hamriyah to east-coast ones like Kalba and Khorfakkan, there are plenty of scenic beaches in Sharjah to amuse you. These places are full of fun things to do, just sit back and relax, cease procrastination on book reading or just soak in endless Vitamin D and Sea. Isn’t it incredible?
| Beaches in Sharjah | Highlights | Location |
| Al Khan Beach | Kayaking, parasailing, surfing, banana boat rides or just ample of relaxation | Click Here |
| Al Heera Beach | Jogging tracks, skate parts, sports fields and endless fun | Click Here |
| Al Hamriyah Beach | The longest and one of the most delightful beaches in Sharjah for people of all ages | Click Here |
| Al Mamzar Beach | Located near Dubai-Sharjah border, perfect for picnics and BBQ | Click Here |
| Kalba Beach Corniche | Beach play areas and mangroves in sight | Click Here |
Best shopping malls and souks in Sharjah
There is no doubt that tens of thousands of people flock to the UAE each year just for the sake of shopping. Sharjah is no different. In recent years, the Emirate has been a strong magnet for shopping enthusiasts from across the globe. Let’s take a look at some of the best shopping malls and souks in Sharjah for all your retail escapades.
| Shopping Malls and Souks in Sharjah | Highlights | Location |
| City Centre Al Zahia | Exciting mix of shopping, dining and entertainment | Click Here |
| Mega Mall | Your one-stop destination in Sharjah for fashion, accessories, electronics, toys and souvenirs | Click Here |
| Sahara Centre | Retail therapy and thrilling things to do for couples, families and solo travellers | Click Here |
| Central Souk (Blue Souk) | Shop one-of-a-kind artifacts, handmade clothes and exotic pieces of ornaments | Click Here |
| Souk Sharq | Retail therapy and a grand dose of history | Click Here |
| Souk al Shanasiyah | One of the oldest souks in the Middle East – best for souvenirs | Click Here |
Best free places to visit in Sharjah
Exploring Sharjah does not need to be an expensive affair. You can find many free places to visit in Sharjah, too, such as Al Khan Beach (a public beach famous for relaxation and lasting memories). Good both day and night, Sharjah Corniche should also be on your bucket list. For people looking for a dose of history and beauty, come to Central Souk (Blue Souk). It is one of the best traditional markets in the UAE and acts as an architectural masterpiece, too. You are also going to find Al Noor Island beautiful. This place offers scenic gardens and pleasant escapes from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Best time to visit Sharjah attractions
The best time to visit Sharjah is generally during the cooler months of October to March. Temperatures tend to significantly reduce during this time and many hotels and restaurants in the city also release incredible offers and promotions. The best time to visit Sharjah attractions, on the other hand, is generally just after the attraction has opened or during the sunset hours. Early hours bring less footfall and sunset hours are best for clicking incredible pictures. Your time in Sharjah is going to be much more magical than you expect it to be.
Dubai to Sharjah by bus and ferry
You can definitely take a taxi or use ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber for the Dubai to Sharjah route. But if you are seeking a little more affordable option, especially after the added AED 20 surcharge fee, take the bus. There are regular Dubai to Sharjah buses, operating from early in the morning to late in the night. You can use the intercity bus route E308, seamlessly connecting Stadium Bus Station to Al Jubail Bus Station. Fares for a single trip typically cost AED 12. There are also other popular Dubai to Sharjah routes, such as E303 Union Square Metro Station to Al Jubail Bus Station and E307 Abu Hail Metro Station to Al Jubail Bus Station.
Let’s not forget the Dubai to Sharjah ferry option. Of course, the main option of using this mode of transport is the ease in traffic. You complete the journey in less than 35 minutes and the ticket prices range from AED 15 to AED 25 per person. Take the ferry in Dubai from Al Ghubaiba Marine Station (located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood). The ferries run from as early as 7:00 am and cease operations for the day as early as 10:00 pm.
Sharjah is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, fans of culture and heritage, food lovers and nature seekers. There is a great selection of beautiful places to visit in Sharjah, featuring beaches, souks, malls and nature spots. Hope this guide aids you in planning your ultimate Sharjah itinerary and make memories that last a lifetime. Sharjah has a lot of opportunities for fans of culture, therefore do not miss out. Your experience in Sharjah is going to be much more magical and delightful than you currently expect it to be. Happy Exploring.
Best Places to Visit in Sharjah – FAQs
1. What are the top tourist attractions in Sharjah?
Tourist attractions in Sharjah cater to different categories. There are cultural attractions, beaches, shopping malls and souks, mangroves and more. For the best beaches, come to Al Hamriyah Beach and Al Khan Beach; for the best shopping experiences, Sahara Centre doesn’t disappoint. Blue Souk is also a great place. For a dose of culture, let’s not miss Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and Sharjah Mosque.
2. Which places in Sharjah are best for first-time visitors?
The best places to visit in Sharjah for first-time visitors include Al Hamriyah Beach for the beachgoers, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization for a dose of culture, Blue Souk for the traditional side of shopping and Al Mamzar Beach for a great attraction near Dubai-Sharjah border. You are not going to be disappointed.
3. What are the must-see cultural attractions in Sharjah?
Sharjah is famous for its cultural attractions among tourists from across the globe. Therefore, there is no doubt that Sharjah has plenty of cultural places for you to explore. You can visit Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Maritime Museum, Flag Island, Resistance Monument and more.
4. What are the best family-friendly attractions in Sharjah?
This list can go on and on, but let’s focus on the important ones. The best family-friendly attractions in Sharjah include, Mega Mall, Sahara Centre Sharjah, Sharjah Maritime Museum, Al Hamriyah Beach, Al Heera Beach, Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre and Blue Souk.
5. What are the best museums in Sharjah for multigenerational travel?
Sharjah has a huge collection of musuems. These places are an important part of its cultural landscape and act as a significant magnet for the tourists. You can explore Sharjah Science Museum, Sharjah Maritime Museum and more places.
6. Are there nature spots to visit in Sharjah?
Definitely. Besides its musuems and other cultural attractions, Sharjah is also famous for its scenic beaches and mangroves. You can check out the Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre and Al Heera Beach for the best memories that last a lifetime.
7. What are some hidden gems in Sharjah?
There are many underrated places to visit in Sharjah for people of different ages and preferences. You can come to Hanging Gardens in Kalba, Hisn Khorfakkan, Sharjah Science Museum, Al Khan Beach, Souk Sharq and Kalba Beach Corniche.
8. What is the public transport scene in Sharjah?
Sharjah has a robust public transport. Since it is located near Dubai, one of the most happening places globally, you can find multiple taxis and buses reach the Emirate. Many people also use the Dubai Metro to reach Sharjah by combining metro and taxis. You can also use ride-hailing platforms like Careem and Uber.
9. Which places in Sharjah are best for couples?
For couples, the best places to visit in Sharjah include the beaches, such as Al Hamriyah Beach and Al Heera Beach. You get ample of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. The Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre is also ideal and so are the malls and souks.
10. What is the best time to visit Sharjah?
The best time to visit Sharjah is generally during the cooler months of October to March as temperatures start to recede. For attractions, it is generally recommended to visit the places as early as they open for less footfall or during the sunset hours for the best photographs.
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