Sharjah Mini Guide
Many people who work in Dubai commute from the neighbouring Emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and so traffic can be bad when visiting.
Arrive at Sharjah international airport and it is only 15 kilometres to the city, though you can also go via Dubai airport – the journey takes just five minutes longer. However, make sure to avoid the rush hour if you can. The traffic can be so bad that it will take you three hours to go from one Emirate to the next.
Car hire is a must as there is no public transport in Sharjah and if you are planning on doing some travelling around it will work out much cheaper than taking taxis.
Sharjah is worth a visit for its cultural attractions as much as anything else and it was designated the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO in 1998.
The ruler of Sharjah, H.H Sheikh Sultan Al Qassimi, was one of the driving forces towards establishing Sharjah as a cultural destination and he created 17 world class museums in the emirate. There is something for everyone at these museums including displays on marine and natural history as well as aviation.
Visit the Heritage Area to find out about Sharjah’s history and see some old houses which have been well restored and are a contrast with the new, modern skyscrapers which are being built all over the UAE. Or you can go to the Art Area which includes Sharjah's Art Museum covering regional and international art exhibits. An oriental collection of artworks is among the highlights of the art area.
One of the sites which is definitely worth seeing, particularly if you are planning to pick up some shopping, is the Blue Souq, otherwise known as the Souq Al Markazi or Central Souq. This is a shopping centre which has 600 shops spread out over two wings.
If you are looking for jewellery and designer clothes you need look no further than the ground floor while the upper level has carpet shops as well as selling goods and crafts from as far afield as Afghanistan and Tibet. Bargaining is expected here and can be very worthwhile. Another good shopping option is Souq al-Arsah which is thought to be the oldest souq in the country.
Also remember when you visit that Sharjah is designated as a dry emirate and therefore alcohol is not sold, though the Sharjah Wanderers Rugby Club is somewhere you can have a quiet drink.