Tailor-made holidays in Sharjah

Sharjah suits travellers looking to combine a beach stay with museums, traditional architecture and journeys through the natural landscapes of the UAE. The emirate encompasses a coastline on the Arabian Gulf, the desert around Mleiha and the eastern enclaves of Khorfakkan and Kalba on the Gulf of Oman.

The atmosphere is generally quieter than in neighbouring Dubai, with greater emphasis placed on cultural heritage and family travel. Local regulations should be considered when planning the stay: the sale and consumption of alcohol are prohibited in Sharjah, while modest clothing and respectful behaviour are expected in public places.

Museums and the historic centre

An introduction to the city can begin in Heart of Sharjah, where historic houses, courtyards and traditional commercial streets have been restored. The district is also home to The Chedi Al Bait, a heritage hotel suited to travellers who prefer an old-city setting to a large beachfront resort.

A cultural itinerary can include the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Art Museum, Al Noor Mosque and the Central Souk, commonly known as the Blue Souk. Rain Room, House of Wisdom and the contemporary venues around Al Majaz reveal a different side of the emirate. Museum opening times and temporary exhibitions should be checked before each visit.

Beaches and hotel locations

Beach hotels are concentrated along Sharjah’s coastline and around Al Khan. This setting works particularly well for families and allows days beside the sea to be combined with visits to the city’s museums. Beach conditions, shaded areas, children’s facilities and transfer times should all be considered when selecting a hotel.

Sharjah borders Dubai directly, although journey times between the two cities vary considerably with traffic. Transfers and evening arrangements are best planned outside the busiest commuting periods.

Mleiha, Khorfakkan and Kalba

Mleiha combines archaeological sites with desert drives, dune landscapes and the rock formations around Fossil Rock. On the east coast, Khorfakkan offers a beach, the Al Rabi hiking trail and views across the Gulf of Oman. Kalba is known for its mangroves and protected natural areas.

Three or four days are sufficient for Sharjah City. A five- to seven-day itinerary makes it possible to include Mleiha and the east coast without rushing. October to April is the most comfortable period for walking, hiking and desert activities, while museums can be visited throughout the year.