Sharjah – A true gem in UAE

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When you think of UAE, you wouldn’t ever consider Sharjah as a destination, right? And Dubai is probably just one destination that you can think of, isn’t it? But when I was planning my trip to UAE, I had a few more destinations in my list. Some were obvious choices and some offbeat.

Sharjah was the first offbeat choice that I made and I am so happy about the decision. Sharjah is the third largest and most populous city in the UAE. It is often regarded as the cultural capital of the UAE. Unlike Dubai which is all about tall flashy buildings, Sharjah is more concentrated on history and culture so I recommend staying here for a night or two to explore and see the most. While there may be so many other places which are beautiful and unique, this post is focussed mostly on the places that I went.

1. Al Maghfirah Mosque

This pretty and magnificent mosque stands elegantly in Al Seef area near the Radisson Blue Hotel. Built in 1999, it can accommodate 3000 people in all, 2000 of whom can sit inside.

With its golden dome and cream facade, this mosque looks beautiful against the sea. According to some local people, they think of this mosque as the sun among the stars of heaven.

2. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

If you are curious about Islam then this place is apt for you to know just about everything you would want to know. This museum holds thousands of rare and important artifacts and objects that include calligraphy, carvings, coins, glass, manuscripts and so much more.

Also, it is located right at the historical heart of the city and is very close (walking distance) from Al Maghfirah mosque. The price of tickets is 10 dirham for adults and 5 Dirham for children.

3. Rain Room

Well, it’s impossible for the desert to miss the rain with its coolest installation. Here you can walk beneath a downpour yet somehow avoid getting wet. Sounds amazing, right?

The trick is to move slowly so that the camera can track your movement. If you walk fast, you will get wet. If you don’t want to wait for your turn then better book tickets online. The session is for 15min for up to 6 people.

It was such a wonderful experience and I highly recommend it. It’s so cool.

4. Al Noor Mosque

The very first stop that I made in Sharjah was this extremely beautiful Mosque called Al Noor Mosque. It is located at the Buhaira Corniche. The architecture is based on the traditional ottoman design and was influenced by Sultan Ahmed mosque in Turkey.

It is open to public and tours take around 45 min. You don’t have to register for tour, just turn up 5 min before 10am on Monday and please dress modestly.

5. Al Qasba

A canal-side complex packed with cafes, restaurants, and shops. There are so many kid-friendly activities too including an outdoor amusement park. This area is super populated in the evening. Boat rides are also there to make your evening more enjoyable.

I highly recommend coming here in the evening to take a stroll and watch the sun go down.

6. Al Noor Island

Just a few meters away from Al Noor Mosque is an island which is home to an architecturally stunning butterfly house and a number of sculptures by some world-famous artists.

Some of the highlights of this car-free island are:

1. Enchanting Butterfly House

2. Literature Pavillion

3. Luscious Landscape Garden

4. Contemporary sculptures and light installations

I hope you all find this post interesting enough to visit Sharjah and if you love this place as much as I did then tag me in your pictures on Instagram.

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Until the next post.
CYA!! XOXO!!