Sharjah is often the “forgotten” Emirate compared with Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Since I started teaching at Barakah Studio, I’ve been using my time after class to explore an Emirate I previously hadn’t visited. Dubai may have the skyscrapers, tourist attractions and party brunches, and Abu Dhabi the art galleries, Sheikh Zayed Mosque and yearly F1 race but Sharjah has so many unexpected sights and things to do, too.

My guide to Sharjah

Galleries and Culture

Heart of Sharjah – An area packed with museums and culture, Heart of Sharjah really is a must-see. I visited Sharjah Fort, Sharjah Heritage Museum, The Calligraphy Museum and Bait Al Naboodah – a restored family complex. Visiting everything takes around two hours and a combined ticket was only AED20 (GBP4). The Sharjah Heritage Museum was my favourite – a fascinating insight into the colonial history of the UAE and the origins of a nation.

Sharjah Art Foundation – The galleries in Al Mureijah Square host an ever changing exhibition programme. Located next to the Heart of Sharjah, entry is free (with an online ticket you can get on the day) and the exhibitions I saw provided really interesting pause for thought.

House of Wisdom – The most beautiful library I’ve visited, House of Wisdom is the perfect spot for an afternoon reading, working or just wandering amongst the shelves. There’s a restaurant and a cafe so you can easily spend a good chunk of time here. Books can only be read while at House of Wisdom and cannot be borrowed.

Al Hamriyah Studios – Away from the centre of Sharjah, the drive to Hamriyah is an adventure itself. Al Hamriyah Studios is part of Sharjah Art Foundation, located right next to the beach, offering glimpses of the sea from the windows. The small town is 55km from Downtown Dubai but feels like another world entirely.

Sharjah Rain Room – The Rain Room exhibition has travelled the world but now has a permanent home in Sharjah. A ticket is AED25 (GBP5) and booking online in advance is recommended. While you don’t really need to spend more than 15-20 minutes here, it’s really fun and in a country where it seldom rains, indoor rain feels all the more of a novelty.

Cafes

Drowsy  Coffee – My favourite speciality coffee shop in Sharjah, Drowsy is a super cute spot (and the name is so good!)) for getting a caffeine fix and is just around the corner from Barakah. The baristas are so friendly and welcoming and their coffee is my favourite – I’m not even a big coffee drinker but I always look forward to my post-teaching almond milk latte. They also sell beans and coffee-making accessories. 

Fen Cafe – A beautiful spot for the winter months, Fen Cafe is within Sharjah Art Foundation and has shaded outdoor seating. Perfect for a coffee, afternoon tea or a late breakfast, the vegan almond butter and banana on toast I had was so delicious. There are a few resident cats wandering around, proudly wearing their Fen collars which means I obviously will be back.

Arabian Tea House – For traditional Emirati and Middle Eastern food, Arabian Tea House is a must-visit. The food is delicious, prices low and portions huge. One for when you want a proper meal and have time to savour and enjoy.

Al Bareed Cafe – Located at the Chedi Al Bait hotel in the Heart of Sharjah, Al Bareed cafe is in the space which was once Sharjah’s first post office. Great for an iced latte or ice cream break, especially if, like me, you visit the Heart of Sharjah in July. 

Active

Barakah Studio – Of course, Barakah is on the list! A ladies only yoga and fitness studio, and a really beautiful space for taking a yoga class.

Al Noor Island – A tropical paradise, Al Noor Island is reached by a bridge from the “mainland” and is home to many species of plants, flowers and butterflies. The island is dotted with art work, sculptures and there’s lots here for kids and adults alike. Perfect to visit in the winter months – I felt like I’d spent a blissful few hours in Bali after my visit.

Stay

Chedi Al Bait – A beautiful, peaceful hotel in a former family residence. Perfect for a staycation or a pool day. Sharjah is a dry Emirate so make mine a mocktail by the pool, please!

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Have you visited Sharjah? Let me know your favourite spots and where else I should add to my list. 

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