Things to Do in Sharjah: The Cultural Emirate, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

From art, culture, museums and mosques to deserts, light festivals and fabulous food there’s an array of things to do in Sharjah. The family-friendly destination has plenty to entertain all age ranges. Check out my tips on what to see and do and the best places to visit in Sharjah.

If you haven’t heard of Sharjah (I hadn’t before I visited) it’s the third largest emirate and the UAE’s cultural heart. It’s also UNESCO’s world book capital of the year for 2019. If bling’s your thing head to neighbouring Dubai but if you’re looking for cultural encounters and want to delve deeper into middle eastern art, heritage and history you’ll find it in Sharjah. Mountain ranges, deserts, beaches and nature reserves will appeal to outdoorsy types and there’s plenty to keep the kids happy too.

Sharjah Light Festival illuminates 17 of the city’s iconic sites in dazzling audio-visual displays. It’s worth planning a February visit to coincide. Buildings in the city are lit up with illuminations set to music. We watched the 20 minute show at Sharjah City Municipality, which was utterly spell-binding, before heading to the Al Qasba and Al Noor Mosque illuminations. The Aquatic Parade and fireworks reflecting in the waters of the Khalid Lagoon were spectacular. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).