sharjahmydestination.ae
SHARJAH VISITOR GUIDE
SHARJAH COMMERCE & TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 1
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ The traditional sport of falconry was passed down to us from our fathers, from a time when we were close to nature and life was more simple. It is a constant reminder to us of the forces of nature, of the inter-relationships between living things and the land they share, and of our own dependence on nature. Late Sheikh ayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan ( )
2 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 2
7/24/17 10:42 AM
Contents
WELCOME TO SHARJAH
4
MAPS
6
CULTURE
8
PLACES TO EXPLORE
16
SHOPPING
24
EATING OUT
26
EAST COAST
28
EVENTS
30
VISITOR INFORMATION
sctda @shjtourism
32
@sharjahtourism sharjahtourismae
3
Publishing
Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 3
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ
WELCOME TO SHARJAH Sharjah is the ideal destination for business or pleasure and this is the perfect guide to help you discover the emirate
4 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 4
7/24/17 10:42 AM
Introduction Sharjah is the AE’s cultural capital brimming with museums galleries and fascinating heritage sites. A rich melting pot of nationalities the emirate attracts thousands of visitors every year. There are more than museums nearly mosques and a NESC World Heritage Site listed . The third largest emirate in the AE offers more than just heritage tourism and culture. Boasting a stunning corniche and more than landscaped parks Sharjah is as beautiful as it is traditional. The city is also home to many e cellent hotels offering a combination of comfort discerning service and a range of international cuisines catering to every palate. utside the city there are endless activities. From sand boarding to quad biking camping to camel riding Sharjah’s rugged terrain is
an adventurer’s delight. For visitors looking for more rela ing activities there is a golf course as well as several ancient archaeological sites to e plore. Shopping in Sharjah suits all tastes. The souks provide a glimpse into the city’s past while modern malls offer fantastic deals on everything from fashion to electronics. Whether you are shopping for carpets or spices silks or souvenirs high street or designer brands you will enjoy the e perience. If that isn’t enough the emirate enjoys a packed events calendar lled with festivals and e hibitions for the entire family. ffering all this and so much more it’s no surprise that Sharjah has received numerous global accolades and awards for tourism and culture. E plore this captivating emirate and e perience the culturally rewarding journey of a lifetime.
5 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 5
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ Sharjah cIt
a Sharjah Ladies Club
Sharjah Aquarium 2
Flag Island
1
11 3 4
Public Beach
Public Beach
7
5 6 12
Al Majaz Amphitheatre 4 2
3
6
1
Al Noor Island
Al Zahra Central Hospital Private Hospital
8
Street Al Wahda 9
8
Al Sha’ab Club
14
Ajman 9
Sharjah Sports Club
10 16
15
Wasit Street
Wasit Street
Al Qassimi Hospital
Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club
Rd
Sharjah College
Cultural Palace
Al Dhaid
Dubai
Kuwaiti Hospital
13
Al Majaz Park
7
5
1
Zulekha Hospital
Al Montazah Park
Al Majaz Waterfront
Sharjah Expo Centre
10
2
Rd med bin Zayed Sheikh Moham
N
S
S
1
Shar ah aritime useum
2
Shar ah erita e useum
3
Shar ah Art Foundation
Sahara Centre 2 i all 1
3
4
Shar ah Calli raphy useum
5
Shar ah Art useum
6
4 5 6
Ansar all Ara all Sa eer all Al Fardan Centre
Shar ah Al isn Fort
7
7
Shar ah useum o slamic Civili ation
8
8
Al ahatta useum
Al Falah Pla a 10 The Central Sou
9
Shar ah Archaeolo ical useum
10 Shar ah Science
12 Shar ah Classic Cars 13
ma Shar ah City Centre
11
Sharjah International Airport
Sharjah University
9
useum
11 slamic Culture Capital
h eila Muw
onument useum
iscovery Centre
11
Sou Al Arsah tile Sou
12
12 Te
13 Shar
ah e a all
14 Gold Centre 15
ana Pla a
16
al an Centre
13
Sharjah 3 National Park
6 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 6
7/24/17 10:42 AM
MAP Sharjah haS three aDDItIONaL terrItOrIeS ON the eaSt cOaSt, ShOwN beLOw: Public Beach
Beach Park
Dibba Al Hisn Fort Public Park Dibba Port Hospital Ajman Child Cultural Centre To Kh or
Khorfakkan Al Dhaid
fa kk
an ,K alb a
Ladies Club
Public Library
Kalba
arjah Golf & ooting Club
KHORFAKKAN Al Qasimi Ho use
Public Library
To Dibba
To Khorfakkan
KALBA Kalba Fort
Ladies Club
Park Public Library
Pub li
c Lib rary Ka Thelba Cu atre ltur al Al S idr aP ark
Kalba Sports Club
Al Lulayyah Beach
Park
Culture Centre Kalba Hospital
Old Fort a lb
r
Ka
K ho
Kalba Women’s Centre Chamber of Commerce & Industry
agpole
Kalba Fl
Khor Kalba Conservation Reserve
aleej Al Kh Club Ladies Park Sports e c ’s Pala Khorfa Ruler Beach kkan Kho ital rf Hosp Porakkan t rk a P y il Fam Her b itag ce Clu eV all Scien illa er M ge Safe To Kalba
To Oman
arjah nal Park
DIBBA AL HISN
Dibba Al Hisn
Sharjah City
Ladies Club
7 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 7
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ
CULTURE Sharjah celebrates its heritage and culture annually during April's popular Heritage Days
8 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 8
7/24/17 10:42 AM
Culture Sharjah is a diverse destination with many layers that represent chapters in the emirate’s rich and varied history from the atmospheric streets in the Heart of Sharjah to the ancient archaeology sites deep in the desert. These riches have led to the city being named the Cultural Capital of the Arab World the Capital of Islamic Culture and the Capital of Arab Tourism.
9 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 9
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ
HEART OF SHARJAH The eart of Sharjah is a charming cultural district featuring traditional Emirati buildings and long winding alleys. This restora tion project showcases the emirate’s fascinating heritage in all its glory. Here you will nd Souk l rsah p 24 which was a regular stop for merchants more than half a century ago. Souk l Shanasi ah ( p 25) is the oldest souk in the area carefully restored with inviting coffee shops and selling heritage items and traditional sweets.
Constructed in l isn ort used to be the emirate’s seat of government. It was also the residence of the Al Qasimi ruling family. Today it displays photographs and rare maps. Nearby is l Eslah School the emirate’s rst formal educational institute. Step inside and see what school life was like years ago for pupils from across the Gulf. Featuring old photographs and wooden desks it is yet another must see museum. Art lovers can visit the Sharjah rt oundation in the Heart of Sharjah’s captivating arts area. The foundation holds
10 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 10
7/24/17 10:42 AM
Culture contemporary e hibitions by acclaimed local and international artists through out the year. Sharjah rt useum features temporary e hibitions and permanent collections. Look out for rientalist paintings from the th and th centuries as well as stunning land scapes cityscapes and portraits.
The Sharjah iennial ( ) has been taking place alternate years for the past two decades and the event has enriched the cultural landscape of the Gulf by commissioning producing and presenting innovative and challenging art e periences for the AE community while offering an internationally recognised platform for artists from the region.
p
11 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 11
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ
MUSEUMS There are museums in Sharjah documenting all aspects of life from the dawn of Islamic civilisation through to aviation sharjahmuseums.ae . In Sharjah aritime useum visitors can learn about traditional wooden
dhows used for shing trading and pearling and admire genuine Arabian pearls while discovering how they were collected measured and weighed. The Sharjah alligraph useum should not be missed. This outstanding centre with ornate wooden doors and crushed coral walls is
12 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 12
7/24/17 10:42 AM
d ian were m missed. e ls is
Culture
much respected in the Arab art world showcasing the comple ity of calligraphy on canvas wood paper and ceramics. Sharjah useum of slamic ivilization has more than e quisite and e tremely rare artefacts from across the globe visitors can trace the roots
and growth of Islam at this museum. Anyone with a passion for cars will love the Sharjah lassic ars useum on the E Al Dhaid Road. It attracts visitors from all over the world and the collection of plus vehicles includes several classic models in pristine condition.
13 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 13
7/24/17 10:42 AM
SHJ The Sharjah Natural istor and otanical useum p where visitors can gain an understanding of the emirate’s aquatic life animals flora and fauna. Located at Sharjah Desert Park ( p 21) the museum features dinosaur models and prehistoric fossils. Look out for the collection of meteorites a favourite with children and adults alike. The Sharjah entre for stronom Space Sciences is situated inside the cluster of Sharjah niversity
City and is another thought provoking venue. Home to a giant cosmic park an observatory and an awe inspiring planetarium it holds regular shows on black holes undiscovered worlds and the dawn of the space age. l ahatta useum opened in was the region’s rst airport. Today it serves as a museum documenting man’s rst attempt to fly the rst moon landing and the development of avia tion in the region as well as globally.
14 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 14
7/24/17 10:42 AM
Culture
useums
pening
ours and Entr
EN N S • Saturday to Thursday am to pm • Friday: pm to pm
T ST • Children ( Free • Children ( AED each
p
• Adults (13 ) AED each
ENT EES • Children ( Free • Children ( AED
S ) 12)
S S • Government and Private school trips: AED and AED with a workshop
) 12
ees
)
• Adults (13 ) AED
15 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 15
7/24/17 10:43 AM
SHJ
PLACES TO EXPLO RE There is so much to see and do in Sharjah, whether you want to enjoy time indoors or venture into the natural landscape.
16 16 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 16
7/24/17 10:43 AM
Places to Explore
LO RE
oy time
Sharjah has securely anchored itself as a destination for culture and heritage. This reputation should not overshadow its position as a thrilling adventure sport destination too. Sharjah is the only emirate with coastline on both the east and west coast which offers visitors a diversity dif cult to nd anywhere else. isitors can trek through the mountains race down sand dunes in the desert dive in the ocean and kayak through the mangroves making the emirate one of the most dynamic visitor destinations in the Middle East. There are festivals and events all year that appeal to families from the Sharjah World Championship Week featuring F boats and aqua bikes on Khalid Lagoon to the beautiful Sharjah Light Festival the Sharjah International Book Fair and the internationally acclaimed Sharjah Biennial.
17 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 17
7/24/17 10:43 AM
SHJ n Al Buhaira Corniche stands l Noor osque . This capacity building offers guided tours to non Muslims. The one hour sessions are held every Monday at am and provide a fascinating insight into Islam and the culture of the AE. Close by is l Noor sland home to a peaceful Literature Pavilion and various art features including the famous vo sculpture. The utter ouse in Sharjah nestled on the Al Noor Island in
Khalid Lagoon is home to s of e otic butterflies. lag sland is home to the world’s seventh tallest flagpole. It was inaugurated on December to mark the st AE National Day. The magni cent Roman style struc ture is located on an island opposite Al Noor. l ajaz mphitheatre spans more than square metres and accommodates up to people. It was the of cial
18 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 18
7/24/17 10:43 AM
Places to Explore venue for the Sharjah Capital of Islamic Culture celebrations and now hosts cultural events such as the Sharjah World Music Festival. Sharjah Fountain at l ajaz aterfront is one of the emirate’s iconic landmarks and a key venue for some of the AE’s major cultural events. It also hosts a variety of artistic and entertainment activities including lm screenings stage shows and rework displays which can be enjoyed from the
viewing gallery that the waterfront restaurants provide. A cr che mini water park and open air playground make Al Majaz Waterfront particularly appealing for young families. Al Majaz has the ara a rt ark and hildren s rt ark where international and regional artists and architects have a platform to showcase sculptures along with educational and interactive works such as the thought provoking installation Hierarchy of Being.
19 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 19
7/24/17 10:43 AM
SHJ
AL KHAN l asba is a lively waterfront destination that combines culture with entertainment. It is home to the most visible of Sharjah’s attractions the E e of the Emirates observation wheel. Air conditioned cabins travel metres into the sky allowing passengers to enjoy spectacular views of the city and admire the Gulf coast as it stretches as far as the eye can see. Further up the banks of Al Khan is Sharjah quarium a fascinating aquatic centre that sheds light on our mysterious and
colourful underwater world. Here there are more than species including clown sh seahorses and moray eels the aquarium is the rst and largest government educational centre in the AE. Covering two floors and lled with . million litres of water it also houses reef sharks and stingrays. No trip to Al Khan would be complete without visiting l han each . isitors will enjoy this prime location along the coast and sports enthusiasts will love the adrenaline fuelled activities on offer that include kayaking kite sur ng parasailing and banana boat rides.
20 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 20
7/24/17 10:43 AM
Places to Explore OUTSKIRTS/AL DHAID ROAD An area of Sharjah worth taking time to e plore is the stretch of land along the Al Dhaid E Road. isitors wanting to make the most of their trip should set aside at least one full day to e perience the best of this region. Families with young children nd the iscover entre is an e cellent place to start. Targeting ages to it enables kids to learn discover and understand both science and technology in a fun lled and rela ing atmosphere. Adjacent is Sharjah National ark the emirate’s largest park covering square metres with a play area in the centre. In the cooler months this sprawling green space is perfect for a picnic or ball game.
If you are looking for something more energetic head to the Sharjah Equestrian and acing lub the rst in the AE when it opened years ago. Home to the region’s largest indoor equestrian facilities visitors can take riding lessons or watch horseracing and show jumping throughout the winter months. Another e cellent family destination is The hildren s arm p located further along the E at Sharjah esert ark. Children can meet pat and feed animals including goats camels and ducks. Also worth e ploring is the rabian ildlife entre p featuring indigenous species and a breeding centre for endangered wildlife.
21 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 21
7/24/17 10:43 AM
SHJ The slamic otanical arden p is also located in this comple providing a meditative space to reflect on the wisdom of the Holy Qur’an. Featuring desert plants in different natural habitats it is as pretty as it is spiritually rewarding. Moving across to the Sharjah Kalba Road one of the most e citing and captivating new visitor attractions is leiha off the E highway. Home to an archaeology centre it offers a fascinating insight into Bedouin life thousands of years ago. The incredible array of activities at Mleiha make it an even more inviting destination for many visitors.
ou can spend an evening e ploring the stars and planets with e perien ced guides alternatively embark on an e treme off road drive through the rocks and sand dunes or hop in a Polaris buggy for an adrenaline fuelled e perience through the desert. Paragliding cycling and over night camping are also available. Closer to the city but still on the outskirts asit etland entre p is part of an ancient chain of wetlands along the Gulf coast. isitors can see more than species of resident and migratory birds from multiple points located around the site and enjoy a buggy ride around the wetland.
22 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 22
7/24/17 10:43 AM
Places to Explore Close by is niversit it . Take a walk through the grounds and admire world class educational establishments such as the American niversity of Sharjah The Sharjah Police Academy the
niversity of Sharjah niversity City Hall and the Dr Sultan Al Qassimi Centre of Gulf Studies as well as the Higher Colleges of Technology among the country’s most prestigious learning institutions.
23 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 23
7/24/17 10:43 AM
SHJ
SHOPPING From sprawling malls to traditional souks, Sharjah is an exciting retail destination for shoppers from across the world An array of restored souks modern malls and independent boutiques means that Sharjah offers an eclectic retail e perience and more than years of rich trading history. Today Sharjah’s souks are lively bustling venues where both locals and visitors purchase quality goods at unbeatable prices. ne of the oldest tourist attractions is Souk l rsah
in the Heart of Sharjah. It is home to solid wooden doors coral walls and charming hanging lanterns making it as much a museum as an intriguing shopping destination. The entral Souk is the most recognised landmark of Sharjah. Fringed by Khalid Lagoon the building is distinctive with its blue
24 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 24
7/24/17 10:43 AM
Shopping domes and pretty latticed windows. Inside jewellery electronics antiques souvenirs pashminas and Iranian carpets make this the emirate’s most visited marketplace. ther venues of note are Souk l ahar with its wide selection of spices and Souk l Shanasi ah home to quirky art stores and inviting caf s. isit any one of Sharjah’s diverse markets and purchase an authentic memento to take back home. From wooden bridal chests to Arabian oud there’s something to suit every taste and every budget.
Perhaps the best time to shop is during the emirate’s spring and summer shopping promotions. Held in January and August respectively these eagerly anticipated annual events offer unmissable discounts free prize draws and e citing family entertainment. Shopping in Sharjah is not de ned by souks. It also offers a wide variety of state of the art malls too. Home to major global brands both high street and high end these air conditioned ta free centres offer cutting edge fashion and the latest electronics. They also feature international food courts multi screen cinemas and interactive play centres for children.
25 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 25
7/24/17 10:44 AM
SHJ
EATING OUT From Arabic to Lebanese through to Chinese, Italian and Moroccan, explore a world of culinary delights at Sharjah’s finest eateries Sharjah’s restaurants offer a warm welcome to all visitors and there is a wide variety to choose from whatever your tastes from budget to bespoke cuisine tourists and residents are well catered for. Living up to Sharjah’s family friendly reputation chefs at the emirate’s restaurants will often go out of their way to make sure children and guests with more selective tastes
are taken care of. Menus are usually presented in many languages also to make ordering easier. Sharjah’s l ajaz aterfront offers visitors a number of popular internationally known restaurant chains interspersed with local brands overlooking the lagoon this family friendly location offers views of the fountains and there is always something for the children from crazy golf to a large playground while you rela in any one of their nearly restaurants with choices ranging from American to Turkish to Australian.
26 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 26
7/24/17 10:44 AM
Eating Out For a more sophisticated evening head to l asba reminiscent of a enetian canal you will nd many independent restaurants supported by well known culinary franchises here Lebanese cuisine rubs shoulders with American brands and cafes encouraging you to enjoy chilling by the water. Alternatively visit one of Sharjah’s many hotels which all have e cellent round the clock dining options including beach side or pool dining. Some of Sharjah’s older districts offer intriguing foody options too. Head to l eena Street and l arija Street for tasty Iranian Pakistani and Iraqi cuisine at budget prices. Likewise some of the emirate’s traditional souks house small independent eateries of particular note. Do take the chance to sample some of the local dishes spiced meat and rice and roast lamb stuffed with nuts and spices are both highly recommended. Don’t forget to try an ine pensive and delicious meat wrap one of the region’s specialties.
A new and intriguing dining desti nation which is fast making a name for itself is the u eilah area around Sharjah’s niversity City. Supported by the vibrant student community there is an array of appealing eateries and coffee shops here offering everything from traditional to charmingly quirky dishes well worth visiting.
pp p
27 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 27
7/24/17 10:44 AM
SHJ
EAST COAST n Sharjah’s beautiful east coast Khor Kalba is an e cellent breeding ground for marine and birdlife including the rare Arabian Collared King sher and Indian Pond Herons. This tidal creek with both mangroves
and a beach is a great place to watch the spring and autumn migrations. More birdlife can be found at the alba ird of re entre p . The rst of its kind in the AE this educational centre enables visitors to
28 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 28
7/24/17 10:44 AM
East Coast e perience the power of birds of prey in the Arabian Peninsula. Moving from feathers to fur l efai ah ountain onservation entre p is home to the critically endangered Arabian Leopard. nce seen throughout the Hajar mountain range the big cat is no longer found wild in the AE. isitors can however see the animal at the square kilometre centre in the Hajar mountains close to the Sharjah Kalba
Road. The centre focuses on safeguarding endangered species and a number of protected animals can be seen here. Kalba is home to the ait Sheikh Saeed in amad l asimi . Constructed between and the building has been fully restored and now displays archaeological nds weapons and agricultural equipment. Within the house you can see a collection of musical instruments.
29 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 29
7/24/17 10:44 AM
SHJ
EVENTS CALENDAR 2017 Your essential guide to what’s on when throughout Sharjah
MARCH
Sharjah Children Biennial scbiennial.ae
FEBRUARY
JANUARY
Sharjah Light Festival sharjahlightfestival.ae
International Government Communication Forum sgci.ae Sharjah Biennial sharjahart.org
Ruler’s Cup – Sharjah International Show Jumping Championship serc.ae
Sharjah Theatre Days sdci.gov.ae
30 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 30
7/24/17 10:44 AM
Events
7
DECEMBER
OCTOBER
Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival scrf.ae
Sharjah International Book Fair 2017 sibf.com
AUGUST
APRIL
Sharjah Heritage Days sdci.gov.ae
NOVEMBER
Sharjah International Children’s Film Festival 2017 sicff.ae
SHARJAH WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP WEEK
Sharjah Chamber of Commerce Summer Promotion sharjah.gov.ae
UIM F1H2O World Powerboat Championship – Sharjah Grand Prix f1h2o.com
UIM-ABP Aquabike World Championship – Sharjah Grand Prix aquabike.net
31 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 31
7/24/17 10:44 AM
SHJ
VISITOR INFORMATION A vibrant cultural hub, Sharjah has much to offer visitors from the Middle East and beyond. Make the most of your stay with our travel essentials roundup that covers everything from getting around to local etiquette
TRAVELLING TO SHARJAH Visas are easily obtained for numerous nationalities and most are issued for 30 days at the airport.
32 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 32
7/24/17 10:44 AM
Visitor Guide GEOGRAPHY Located on the southern coast of the Arabian Gulf Sharjah is one of seven emirates that form the nited Arab Emirates. Ruled by the Al Qasimi family it is bordered by Dubai to the south and Ajman to the north. The emirate of Sharjah comprises the capital city of Sharjah and smaller towns including Kalba Dibba Al Hisn and Khorfakkan. The city of Sharjah is appro imately square kilometres.
LOCAL TIME GMT
CLIMATE Sharjah has almost year round sunshine. ccasional light showers fall in winter. Temperatures range from lows of C in January and February to highs of C in June and July.
LANGUAGE Arabic is the of cial language of the AE. English is widely used.
CLOTHING Women do not need to cover their hair but they should wear loose tting clothing with shoulders and knees covered especially in shopping malls. Men should also dress modestly – long shorts or light trousers when sightseeing. During summer lightweight clothing is ideal. Carry a light jacket or shawl during winter.
CURRENCY The AE uses the Arab Emirate Dirham denoted as AED or more commonly Dhs. ne dirham is divided into ls and the dirham is pegged to the dollar.
BUSINESS HOURS Friday is the of cial day off. Government organisations schools and many private companies are also closed on Saturday. Consulates and embassies are generally open from am to pm. The weekend is Friday and Saturday.
33 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 33
7/24/17 10:44 AM
SHJ FINANCE AND BUSINESS BANKS Most international banks have a branch in Sharjah. They generally work from am to pm Saturday to Thursday and are closed on Friday.
CREDIT CARDS Credit cards are widely accepted.
GETTING AROUND TAXIS Metered ta is are easily available and ine pensive. Many drivers are unfamiliar with street names so it is useful to identify a few landmarks.
CAR HIRE There are several local and international car hire companies. Simply provide your passport two photographs and a valid driving licence. For smaller vehicles the daily rate is appro imately Dhs including insurance. Most rental car agents are located on Al Wahda King Faisal Al Mina and Al Estiqlal roads.
UTILITIES Electricity volts at may need an adaptor.
cycles. S made appliances
TELECOMMUNICATIONS Etisalat and du are the key telecommunication operators. Convenient pre paid plans are available for tourists and business travellers.
MEDICAL CARE Medical facilities in Sharjah are regulated by the local health authority. The emirate has government hospitals as well as numerous private clinics and hospitals but it is normal to have good health insurance to travel in the AE.
RELIGION Islam is the of cial religion. Equal respect and tolerance is e tended to other religions.
POPULATION . million
34 Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 34
7/24/17 10:44 AM
USEFUL WEBSITES alqasba.ae
scass.ae
• Al Qasba (p20)
• Sharjah Centre for Astronomy & Space Sciences (p14)
• Eye of the Emirates (p20)
shjmun.gov.ae
alkhanbeach.com
• Central Souk (p24)
• Al Khan Beach (p20)
• Sharjah National Park (p21)
almajaz.ae
shjculture.com
• Al Majaz Amphitheatre (p18)
• Al Noor Mosque (p18)
• Al Majaz Waterfront (p19) • Children’s Art Park (p19)
sharjahlightfestival.ae
• Maraya Art Park (p19)
• Sharjah Light Festival (p17)
alnoorisland.ae
sharjahmuseums.ae
• Al Noor Island (p18)
• Al Mahatta Museum (p14)
• The Butterfly House (p18)
• Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi (p29) • Discovery Centre (p21)
discovermleiha.ae
• Sharjah Classic Cars Museum (p13)
• Mleiha (p22)
• Sharjah Aquarium (p20)
epaashj.ae • Arabian Wildlife Centre (p21) • Children’s Farm (p21) • Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre (p29)
• Sharjah Calligraphy Museum (p12) • Sharjah Maritime Museum (p12) shurooq.gov.ae • Flag Island (p18)
• Islamic Botanical Garden (p22) • Kalba Bird of Prey Centre (p28)
EVENTS
• Sharjah Desert Park (p21)
• Sharjah Light Festival – sharjahlightfestival.ae (p30)
• Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum (p14)
• International Government Communication Forum –
• Wasit Wetland Centre (p22) heartofsharjah.ae • Al Eslah School (p10) • Al Hisn Fort (p10)
sgci.ae (p30) • Ruler’s Cup – Sharjah International Show Jumping Championship – serc.ae (p30) • Sharjah Biennial – sharjahart.org (p30)
• Heart of Sharjah (p10)
• Sharjah Theatre Days – sdci.gov.ae (p30)
• Souk Al Arsah (p24)
• Sharjah Children Biennial – scbiennial.ae (p30)
• Souk Al Shanasiyah (p25)
• Sharjah Heritage Days – sdci.gov.ae (p31)
islamicmuseum.ae • Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation (p13)
• Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival – scrf.ae (p31) • Sharjah International Children’s Film Festival – sicff.ae (p31)
serc.ae • Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club (p21) sharjahart.org • Sharjah Art Foundation (p10) • Sharjah Art Museum (p11)
Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 35
• Sharjah International Book Fair – sibf.com (p31) • Sharjah Chamber of Commerce Summer Promotion – sharjah.gov.ae (p31) • Sharjah World Championship Week – Sharjahmydestination.ae (p31)
7/24/17 10:44 AM
Sharjah Pocket Guide-24 July.indd 36
Sharjah Art Foundation
Art is an important part of Sharjah’s cultural landscape with many impressive galleries and is celebrated biannually with the famous Art Biennial
7/24/17 10:44 AM