Sharjah |
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Sharjah is the second largest emirate in size and it is situated on the Persian Gulf, next to Dubai and Ajman, and extends as far south as the Omani border. It also has several enclaves situated on the East Coast with towns such as Khor Fakkan, Dibba and Kalba. Al Dhaid, located in the interior of the UAE, also belongs to this emirate. Sharjah is famous for its efforts to preserve the culture and heritage of the UAE, and its commitment to the arts. It is, therefore, often called the Cultural City of the UAE. It is also a busy administrative and commercial centre, but with a distinct atmosphere of tradition and religion.
HERITAGE AND CULTURE
Sharjah Arts Area Location: Al Shuwaihiyeen area, north side of Burj Avenue The Arts Area was created after restoring several buildings, five of which have a significant heritage value, in the old district of Sharjah. Here you will find the Sharjah Art Museum (Phone: 06 5688222), Sharjah Art Centre, Sharjah Art Gallery, Arabic Art and Fine Craft, Emirates Fine Art Society (Phone: 06 5684488), Contemporary Arab Art (Phone: 06 5695050), and several smaller galleries.
Sharjah Heritage Area Location: South side of Burj Avenue The Heritage Area was created to present and promote the cultural and historical heritage of Sharjah. It includes local souqs, small museums and carefully renovated traditional buildings.
Al Hisn, Sharjah Fort Location: Burj Avenue, Phone: 06 5687711 This fort was built in 1820, and it was a defence point and a residence for the ruling family. For several decades, the fort fell to ruin, but it was restored to its original state in 1996. Now it serves as a museum with artefacts representing Sharjah’s past.
Bait Al Gharbi Location: Al Qasaba Square, Phone: 06 5687711 Three different types of wind towers are the most famous and unique features of this house. The house, which belonged to Sheik Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, exhibits items that present family life from the past.
Museum of Islamic Civilization Location: Corniche Rd, Phone: 06 5683334, Web: www.islamicmuseum.ae This museum has an extensive collection of Islamic manuscripts, examples of Islamic art and handicrafts. It is situated in a building that in itself is an example of Islamic architecture (this building was formerly known as the Al Majarrah Souq) and it is definitely worth a visit.
The Majlis of Ibrahim Mohammed Al Midfa Location: between the Souq Al Arsah and Corniche Rd, Phone: 06 5693999 Ibrahim Mohammed Al Midfa was a secretary to the rulers; and this beautiful house exhibits his private items, as well as traditional house decorations and furniture.
The Sharjah Heritage Museum Location: Bait Al Naboodah, opp. Souq Al Arsah, Phone: 06 5693999 The Heritage Museum is located in a typical two story family house. On display are items of jewellery, traditional costumes, ceramics, furniture, and other household necessities.
Archaeological Museum Location: near Quran R/A, Phone: 06 5665466, Web: www.archaeology.gov.ae
Sharjah Science Museum Location: Halwan, next to the Sharjah TV Station, Phone: 06 5668777
Sharjah Police Museum Location: Maysaloun, Police Headquarters, Phone: 06 5633333
PARKS AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Sharjah Desert Park Location: about 25km from the town towards Dhaid, Phone: 06 5311999 The grounds contain the Natural History Museum, Children's Farm, Arabian Wildlife Centre and the off-limits Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Animals.
Discovery Centre Location: along Sharjah Dhaid Highway, near the Airport, Phone: 06 5586577 This is an interesting place for children where they can learn the world around them. The idea of this centre is to introduce fun into the learning process.
Sharjah Aquarium Phone: 06 5285288, Web: www.sharjahaquarium.ae The Sharjah Aquarium displays the rich marine wildlife of the UAE with more than 250 species. You can also see wildlife found in rock pools or mangroves.
SHOPPING
Blue Souq Location: Corniche Rd Also known as the Central Souq, it is probably the best place in the whole UAE to buy a carpet, silver jewellery or clothing. It is a popular place amongst both residents and tourists, and it has a kind of oriental charm. Bargaining is practiced and expected.
Souq al Arsah Location: centre of the Heritage Area This is an original souq and probably the oldest one in the UAE. Carefully restored, it still has some traditional features such as a palm leaf roof. You can buy crafts products, silver jewellery, antiques, but you will also find common souvenir items.
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Sharjah’s Museums: www.sharjahmuseums.ae
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