A Day in Sharjah, Dubai’s Less Visited Neighbour, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

It is stylish and modern, the UNESCO designated Capital of Arabic Culture, and only a stone’s throw from Dubai. So why did it feel as if we were the only tourists there?

Most people will tell you the reason is very simple: Sharjah is dry. Not in the literal sense – although rain is indeed rare – but in the sense of a strict prohibition on the sale or drinking of alcohol. Far removed from the cocktail-swilling culture of Dubai’s hotels, Sharjah is quiet and dignified, and largely ignored by tourists. Which is a pity. The city manages to combine modern architecture and souks with traditional Arabic design and old fashioned hospitality, making it a great place for a day out from the glitz and brashness of Dubai.

We walked alongside the lagoon, noting the old dhows (fishing boats), the high rise buildings, and the Big Wheel (presumably intended for tourists, although not running today). Our destination was the heritage area, which apparently boasts 22 museums. Here we spent some time wandering around the courtyard of the Heritage Museum before walking across the road to the wonderfully named Calligraphy Square. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).