By the Persian Gulf, Sharjah is the capital of the emirate of the same name – the only one in the UAE to have a coastline on 2 gulfs.
Although not as internationally famous as its neighbor Dubai, Sharjah still has an exciting mix of old and new. The skyline is a backdrop of skyscrapers and many modern public buildings were designed by the ruling sheikh.
In sharp contrast is the Sharjah Heritage Area, the city’s oldest part. Here historic houses line pedestrian streets featuring some of the best museums, including the excellent Islamic Museum. On its northern edge is 19th-century Al Hisn Fort, an Arabic-style building once home to the ruling family.
Shopping in Sharjah is as big as in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Its shopping centers include Ansar Mall and Mega Mall, while a more traditional experience can be found in Souk al-Arsah and the Blue Souk, so called because of its blue tiles and roof. Across the park is King Faisal Mosque, a gift from the Saudi king.
Outside the city is a desert park, camel racing track and Sharjah Airport, the only place where you can drink alcohol. Find nearby hotels and apartments on Accommodation Abudhabi.
