Journey to Sharjah, the cultural capital of the Emirates – photo gallery

Sharjah is often regarded as the cultural heart of the United Arab Emirates, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modernity. During my recent visit to this captivating emirate, I unearthed many treasures that distinguish it from the world-renowned Dubai or Abu Dhabi.  

When thinking of the Emirates, Dubai is typically the first destination that comes to mind, with its myriad of unique experiences. However, right next door lies Sharjah, an emirate that receives far less attention. As the third-largest emirate in the UAE, Sharjah is renowned for its cultural and artistic significance. It has even earned the title of ‘Cultural Capital of the Arab World’ from UNESCO.

Arrival in Sharjah: First impressions

For visitors from Hungary, the best route is via Dubai International Airport (DXB), served by airlines such as Emirates, Flydubai, and Wizz Air. From Dubai, it’s easy to reach Sharjah by taxi, as the cities are seamlessly interconnected.

At first glance, Sharjah’s modern skyline and abundance of mosques appear similar to Dubai’s. Yet, Sharjah’s charm lies in its ability to blend tradition with progress.

Let’s pause here for a quick overview: The UAE is a federation of seven emirates, located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula along the southwestern coast of the Persian Gulf. While all emirates follow Islamic principles, Sharjah is known for adhering to stricter interpretations. Alcohol is prohibited, and modest dress is expected, especially at religious and heritage sites.

The Emirates is a melting pot of cultures, with people from around the globe making it their home. However, citizenship is rarely granted to expatriates, creating a fascinating societal structure. One Indian taxi driver I met had lived in Sharjah for 26 years, witnessing its transformation from desert landscapes to urban vibrancy, yet he remains content despite being ineligible for citizenship.

Sharjah spans both the east and west coasts, offering visitors the chance to explore the country’s natural beauty—from sandy deserts to pristine beaches. For the best experience, visit between October and April, when the weather is cooler.

While Sharjah has a well-established public transport network, it lacks trains or metro services. Taxis are an affordable and convenient option, though ‘crossing the border’ into Dubai incurs an additional fee on the meter.

Alternatively, you can rent a car, but be aware that Sharjah is notorious for traffic jams, so you should always factor that in. However, the drivers are very attentive.

Exploring the cultural heritage of Sharjah

Islamic Civilisation Museum of Sharjah

My cultural journey began at the Islamic Civilisation Museum of Sharjah, where I was captivated by treasures of Islamic art and history. Ancient manuscripts, celestial globes, and exquisite ceramics were highlights, with the central dome’s mosaic constellations leaving a lasting impression.

Al Hisn Fortress and heritage site

In the Heritage Area, I explored the Al Hisn Fortress, learning about Sharjah’s rulers and its past strategic significance. Nearby, the Sharjah Museum of Calligraphy showcased the beauty of Arabic script, while bustling souks offered everything from spices to handcrafted jewellery.

Go to nature

Al Noor Island

One of my personal favourites is Al Noor Island, quite literally a green oasis in the heart of the bustling city. I wandered through lush gardens adorned with artistic installations, a perfect blend of creativity and nature. To my surprise, there’s even a trampoline in place of a pavement, should you fancy a bounce. For a truly memorable experience, the Butterfly House on the island is a must-visit. The abundance of beautiful butterflies, fluttering freely in the same space as humans, offers a magical encounter. They might land on your hand, or you can observe them closely as they feed on sweet nectarines. Transporting and caring for butterflies, which live only for a month or two, is an expensive endeavour for such a unique ‘zoo’. It’s safe to say we won’t see many like it in our lifetime.

Khor Fakkan

For those keen to explore the other side of the emirate, I recommend a day trip to Khor Fakkan on the east coast. This picturesque coastal town boasts tranquil beaches and clear waters, ideal for diving. A hike to the Rifaisa Dam, surrounded by majestic mountains, offered breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. The Al Suhub rest area also provides a stunning panorama.

Mleiha desert and archaeological center

If the desert calls to you, the archaeological site of Mleiha is the perfect destination. Located just 40 minutes’ drive from the city centre, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UAE. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to some of the region’s most significant archaeological discoveries, including Bronze Age tombs, forts, and fossils. Despite its historical allure, Mleiha is particularly favoured for its desert experiences. For those with strong nerves, I highly recommend off-roading between the dunes—a thrilling and unforgettable adventure. While “rodeoing” through the desert in our campervan, we stopped at Camel Rock (Teve Sklara) and Fossil Rock to marvel at the dramatic scenery.