Discover Sharjah: Top Things to Do & Where to Stay

Sharjah is the UAE's cultural capital, and one of the easiest weekend escapes from Dubai. Just a short drive north, it trades skyscrapers for heritage souqs, world-class museums, waterfront promenades and a calmer, family-friendly pace. Whether you're visiting for business, a family holiday or a long stay, here are the best things to do in Sharjah, and where to stay to make the most of it. ## Top Things to Do in Sharjah ### 1. Explore the Heart of Sharjah Wander through the restored heritage district with its coral-stone houses, shaded alleys and traditional souqs. Don't miss Souq Al Arsah, one of the oldest markets in the UAE, for antiques, spices and local crafts. ### 2. Visit the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization Set on the waterfront, this museum showcases centuries of Islamic science, art and culture. The golden mosaic dome alone is worth the visit. ### 3. Relax at Al Majaz Waterfront A favourite with families, Al Majaz offers lakeside walks, restaurants, play areas and an evening fountain show overlooking Khalid Lake. ### 4. Ride the Eye of the Emirates at Al Qasba Al Qasba is a lively canal-side destination with cafés, cultural events and the Eye of the Emirates observation wheel, offering great views over the city. ### 5. Discover Al Noor Island This peaceful island on Khalid Lagoon blends art, nature and architecture, with sculptures, landscaped gardens and a butterfly house. ### 6. See Marine Life at Sharjah Aquarium Located on Al Khan Corniche, the aquarium introduces visitors to the marine life of the Arabian Gulf. Next door, the Sharjah Maritime Museum tells the story of the emirate's pearling and seafaring past. ### 7. Browse the Central Souq (Blue Souk) Recognisable by its blue tiles and wind towers, the Central Souq is the place for gold, jewellery, carpets and souvenirs. ### 8. Admire Art at the Sharjah Art Museum One of the largest art museums in the region, it hosts permanent collections and rotating exhibitions from the Arab world and beyond. ### 9. Experience the Rain Room An immersive art installation where you can walk through falling rain without getting wet. A truly unique Sharjah experience. ### 10. Take a Desert Trip to Mleiha For adventure, head inland to Mleiha for archaeological sites, desert drives, fossil rock hiking and stargazing under clear skies. ### 11. Enjoy Al Khan Beach and the Corniche End your day with a sunset stroll along Al Khan Beach, with views of the Dubai skyline across the water. ## Where to Stay in Sharjah: Emirates Stars Emirates Stars Hospitality Group has two properties in Sharjah, both close to the city's top attractions and an easy drive from Dubai. ### Emirates Stars Hotel Apartments Sharjah Located on Al Khan Corniche Road, just a short walk from Sharjah Aquarium, the Sharjah Maritime Museum and Al Khan Beach, this property is ideal for families and longer stays. - Studios, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments, plus a 3-bedroom penthouse - Kitchenettes with fridge, stovetop and microwave - Free Wi-Fi and free on-site parking - Daily housekeeping, laundry facilities and 24-hour front desk - Minutes from Khalid Lake, Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront ### Nejoum Al Emarat Hotel, Sharjah Set on Al Qassimiya Street in the heart of the city, Nejoum Al Emarat is a great choice for business travellers and visitors who want to be close to Sharjah's culture and shopping. - Standard and Deluxe rooms, plus suites - Fitness centre and sauna - On-site restaurant with room service - Free Wi-Fi, free parking and a business centre - Close to the Sharjah Art Museum, Heart of Sharjah and Mega Mall Both properties offer 24-hour reception and easy access to Dubai International and Sharjah International airports. ## Practical Tips for Visiting Sharjah - Best time to visit: October to April, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities. - Getting around: Taxis are easy to find, and Dubai is roughly 20 to 40 minutes away by car depending on traffic. - Dress code: Sharjah is more conservative than Dubai. Shoulders and knees should be covered in public places. - Alcohol: Sharjah is an alcohol-free emirate, including hotels and restaurants. - Fridays: Many attractions open later on Fridays, so plan your sightseeing accordingly. ## Plan Your Sharjah Stay From heritage souqs and museums to lakeside evenings and desert adventures, Sharjah has something for every traveller. Stay with Emirates Stars and enjoy comfortable, great-value accommodation close to it all. Book direct for the best rates at emiratesstarshotels.ae or call us on +971 4 258 9888.