Dubai’s quieter neighbor to the north, Sharjah is evolving into a tourist-worthy hotspot in its own right. Sharjah is the capital of the United Arab Emirates’ third-largest emirate of the same name, hiding a wealth of cultural and historical draws that distinguish it from its razzle-dazzle counterpart. Out of all the things to do in Sharjah, culture lovers can get lost in museums like the world-class Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization in the Heart of Sharjah quarter; outdoor types will want to hit the desert for adventure and archaeological sites; and leisure seekers may warm to the city’s beaches, souks, and waterfront parks. Take note: Sharjah is 100 percent dry, so no alcohol is served anywhere.
The best time to visit Sharjah is November through May when the UAE’s roasting summer temperatures melt into milder conditions ideal for beach and sightseeing trips. This is peak season, however, so while Sharjah is quieter than Dubai, its attractions can get busy. Add excitement to a winter visit by attending one of Sharjah’s blockbuster annual events, including December’s Formula 1 powerboat racing Grand Prix or February’s Sharjah Light Festival.
Most Sharjah visitors hail cabs or rent a car to travel: Both are cheap and handy ways to get from A to B. Car rental outlets are here in force, and the city’s taxis are metered, accept cards and cash, and are easy to flag from the roadside. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are another alternative. If you’re happy to spend time researching routes, Sharjah’s public Mowasalat buses are reliable, although verifying timetables can be difficult.
Shawarma—roasted meat sliced and stuffed into fluffy wraps—is a culinary institution in Sharjah and a must-try for visitors. Some of the best in town come courtesy of Laffah Restaurant near the city’s Al Majaz waterfront. Its chicken shawarma is famous for being super juicy, crispy, and generous. Max out on the carb front with a side of fried potato slices, another seasoned-to-perfection Laffah legend.
