Sharjah

OVERVIEW

Sharjah

Sharjah is the cultural conscience of the UAE. Named the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO in 1998 and the World Book Capital in 2019, this emirate has invested deeply in preserving and promoting arts, heritage, and education. The Heart of Sharjah restoration project is transforming the historic centre into one of the region's most significant heritage districts, with restored coral-stone houses, traditional souks, and atmospheric alleyways. The Sharjah Art Foundation has made the emirate a serious player on the global contemporary art scene, with the Sharjah Biennial drawing international attention. The city's museums -- from the Museum of Islamic Civilization to the Sharjah Heritage Museum -- are among the finest in the Gulf. Beyond culture, Sharjah offers beautiful Khor Fakkan beaches on the east coast and Al Dhaid's agricultural heartland.

Sharjah offers the most authentic cultural experience in the UAE, free from the glitz of its neighbours. The heritage areas are genuinely atmospheric, the museums are excellent, and the art scene is internationally recognised. It also offers significantly better value than Dubai, while being only 30 minutes away.