Looking for the ultimate Sharjah itinerary? You’re in the right place.
Sharjah often gets overlooked. Everyone talks about Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but not much about this emirate. I didn’t really know what to expect either.
When I told people I was heading there, a lot of them asked, “Sharjah? Where’s that?” It’s not as flashy as its neighbours, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting.
I spent five days exploring Sharjah and was honestly surprised by how much it has to offer. Historic souks, desert adventures, peaceful islands, cultural hotspots — there’s so much to discover.
Short drives make getting around easy. But traffic can be tricky, so always leave a little extra time.
This Sharjah itinerary takes you through the city, desert, mountains and waterfronts. You’ll get a mix of history, culture, nature and adventure — all in one trip.
By the end, you’ll see why Sharjah deserves a spot on your UAE itinerary. Let’s dive in.
For a deeper dive into Sharjah’s culture and hidden gems, check out my full Sharjah Travel Guide.
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| Booked It, Loved It: My Sharjah Picks Where to Stay: The Chedi Al Bait or Al Badayer Retreat Highlights: Cultural Heritage Tour, Al Noor Island & Butterfly House and Mleiha Desert Safari Travel Insurance: SafetyWing Stay Connected: Airalo eSim |
Sharah At A Glance
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Emirate | Sharjah |
| Country | United Arab Emirates |
| Language | Arabic (English widely spoken) |
| Currency | UAE Dirham (AED) |
| Population | ~1.5 million |
| Main Airports | Sharjah International (SHJ), Dubai International (DXB, 30–40 min drive) |
| Time Zone | Gulf Standard Time (GST, UTC+4) |
| Famous for | Cultural heritage, traditional souks, desert adventures, scenic waterfronts |
| Best Travel Months | November–March (mild weather, ideal for exploring) |
| Transport / Driving | Car hire recommended for desert/mountains; taxis, ride apps, and public buses available |
Overview – 5-day Sharjah Itinerary
Ready to explore Sharjah? Here’s an overview…
▶ Click to View: 5-Day Sharjah Itinerary
Heart of Sharjah
- Explore Souq Al Arsah, one of the UAE’s oldest markets, full of spices, antiques, and crafts.
- Visit Al Hisn Fort for Sharjah’s history and heritage insights.
- Stop at the Sharjah Heritage Museum to understand Emirati traditions and Bedouin life.
- Evening at Al Majaz Waterfront — enjoy fountains, lights, and family-friendly spaces while dining.
Nature & Art
- Morning at Al Noor Island & Butterfly House, wandering gardens, art, and exotic butterflies.
- Lunch by Khalid Lagoon with scenic views and light bites.
- Visit the Rain Room, walking through rain without getting wet.
- Sunset drinks and dinner along the waterfront to unwind.
Safari & Desert Adventure
- Morning wildlife at Sharjah Safari, spotting lions, giraffes, rhinos, and elephants.
- Lunch at the safari café or a picnic.
- Afternoon Mleiha Desert adventure: dune bashing, sandboarding, and exploring fossils and archaeological sites.
- Sunset horse riding through golden dunes for an unforgettable experience.
Culture & Learning
- Morning at the House of Wisdom, exploring exhibitions, workspaces, and cultural activities.
- Lunch nearby in Sharjah city.
- Afternoon at the Holy Quran Academy, seeing some of the world’s oldest Qurans.
- Evening boat tour at Al Qurum for skyline and sunset views.
Desert Mountains & Al Badayer Retreat
- Morning hiking and photography in the desert mountains around Al Badayer Retreat.
- Lunch at the retreat enjoying traditional Emirati dishes.
- Afternoon relaxation, photography, or light desert hikes.
- Farewell dinner in Sharjah city, strolling and reflecting on your trip.
Getting to Sharjah
Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) is a convenient entry point, especially if you’re flying budget airlines like Air Arabia.
Most visitors fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB), only 30–40 minutes away under normal traffic. But trust me, one evening it took me over 1 hour 15 minutes to return from Dubai! Always plan extra time.
Transport Options:
- Taxi/Ride apps: Uber and Careem work in Dubai and Sharjah. Sharjah taxis are cheaper — fares range 70–100 AED.
- Public buses: E303, E304, and E306 connect Dubai and Sharjah for about 10 AED. Slower, but authentic and air-conditioned.
- Car hire: Perfect if exploring desert, mountains, or off-the-beaten-path areas. GPS recommended — traffic can get heavy during peak hours.
No matter your choice, check Google Maps or Waze for real-time updates.
Currency & Costs
Sharjah is generally more budget-friendly than Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Accommodation: 150–1,000 AED/night depending on luxury.
Food: 30–60 AED casual; 100+ AED fine dining.
Attractions: 15–50 AED; some free experiences, like souks or Al Majaz Waterfront.
For full tips on costs, budget accommodation, and where to eat, see my Sharjah Travel Guide.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Sharjah is hot most of the year, so planning your trip around the cooler months makes exploring much more enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown:
- Winter (December–February)
- Temperature: 18–28°C
- Perfect for sightseeing, desert activities, and walking around the city.
- Sharjah Light Festival in February is a highlight — landmarks like mosques, forts, and museums are transformed with stunning projections. Don’t miss the Light Village for local and international food trucks.
- Spring (March–May)
- Temperature: 25–35°C
- Warm and sunny, great for outdoor excursions like desert safaris and waterfront strolls.
- Avoid midday heat for desert activities; early morning or late afternoon is best.
- Summer (June–August)
- Temperature: 35–45°C
- Very hot and humid, especially in July and August.
- Best for indoor activities, shopping malls, and hotel pools rather than outdoor sightseeing.
- Autumn (September–November)
- Temperature: 30–38°C in September, cooling to 25–30°C by November
- Comfortable for outdoor adventures, desert trips, and sightseeing.
- By late October–November, it’s ideal for exploring both the city and natural areas.
Summary:
- Best months to visit: November–March (mild, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities)
- Hot months: June–August (plan for indoor activities and air-conditioned spaces)
Sharjah Itinerary Day by Day
1. Explore the Heart of Sharjah
Morning
Start at Souq Al Arsah, one of the UAE’s oldest markets. Wander narrow alleyways, admire handmade crafts, and pick up spices, incense, or antiques. Then head to Al Hisn Fort, the old ruler’s residence now converted into a museum.
Lunch
Grab a casual bite at a local café or souk eatery. Emirati dishes like machboos or luqaimat are worth trying.
Afternoon
Visit the Sharjah Heritage Museum to learn about Bedouin life, traditional crafts, and Sharjah’s evolution as a cultural hub.
Evening
Walk along Al Majaz Waterfront, where fountains, lights, and family-friendly spaces make for a relaxed dinner. The views across the water are stunning at night.
2. Nature & Art
Morning
Head to Al Noor Island & Butterfly House. The gardens, art installations, and butterflies are perfect for morning calm. Keep an eye out — some butterflies might land on your fingers!
Lunch
Stop at a café by Khalid Lagoon for views and light bites.
Afternoon
Visit the Rain Room, an immersive installation where you walk through pouring rain without getting wet. Take it slow — patience keeps you dry!
Evening
Stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets, then have dinner at a nearby restaurant. This is one of the more laid-back evenings on your Sharjah itinerary, perfect for reflecting on your first two days.
3. Safari & Desert Adventure
Morning
Visit Sharjah Safari, the largest safari park outside Africa. Lions, giraffes, rhinos, and elephants roam in expansive, naturalistic enclosures. It’s a wildlife experience unlike any other in the UAE.
Lunch
Pack a picnic or grab lunch at a café near the safari park.
Afternoon
Drive to Mleiha Desert for dune bashing in a 4×4, sandboarding, and exploring archaeological sites. Learn about the desert’s fossils and history — a real blend of adventure and culture.
Evening
End the day with horse riding at sunset. The golden dunes are breathtaking and make for a magical experience. Take photos, enjoy the quiet, and soak in the desert atmosphere.
4. Culture & Learning
Morning
Visit the House of Wisdom, Sharjah’s architectural gem and cultural hub. Browse exhibitions, workspaces, and a women-only relaxation room.
Lunch
Stop at a café in the city. There are plenty near cultural areas.
Afternoon
Head to the Holy Quran Academy, home to some of the world’s oldest Qurans. Learn about the translation of the Quran into multiple languages and its significance. Then, explore nearby museums or galleries.
Evening
Take a boat tour around Al Qurum to see the city from a different perspective. Sunset on the bay is calm and beautiful, offering a peaceful end to a culturally rich day.
5. Desert Mountains & Al Badayer Retreat
Morning
Explore the desert mountains near Al Badayer Retreat. Hike, take photos, and enjoy the serene landscape.
Lunch
Relax at the retreat and enjoy traditional Emirati dishes in an Arabian fort-style setting.
Afternoon
More hiking, photography, or simply enjoying the desert scenery. This is the perfect time to reflect on your five-day adventure.
Evening
Return to Sharjah city for a farewell dinner. Wander through the streets one last time, raising a glass to a memorable trip.
| Where to Stay in Sharjah Luxury: The Chedi Al Bait – culture and elegance in the city center Desert Retreat: Al Badayer Retreat – Arabian fort experience Glamping: Moon Retreat – sleep under the stars Mountains/Heritage: Najd Al Meqsar – unique stay in the mountains |
Where to Eat in Sharjah
Sharjah might be the UAE’s cultural capital, but it’s also a foodie hotspot. From traditional Emirati flavours to international cuisine, the city has something for every palate. Here are some of my top picks:
- Shababeek – A Lebanese restaurant with stunning views of the city. Perfect for mezze plates, fresh salads, and a relaxed vibe while enjoying the sunset.
- Mavia Al Faya – A stylish desert dining experience, serving Middle Eastern cuisine with a twist. Great for an evening meal surrounded by dunes.
- Al Banoosh – Casual and lively, this seafood spot is loved for its fresh fish, grilled prawns, and traditional Emirati dishes. Ideal for lunch or a relaxed dinner.
- Al Fanar Restaurant & Café – Classic Emirati food in a charming setting. Try their machboos (spiced rice with meat) or luqaimat (sweet dumplings) for an authentic taste.
- Souks & Street Food – Don’t miss wandering the traditional markets like Souq Al Arsah or Blue Souq for shawarma, kebabs, nuts, dates, and Emirati sweets. Perfect for snacking while exploring.
Top Tips for Your Sharjah Itinerary
- Dress modestly – Sharjah is more conservative than Dubai, so covering shoulders and knees in public is important. Pack a scarf if you plan to visit mosques or cultural sites.
- Respect local traditions – Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and during Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours. Being mindful of local customs not only keeps you out of trouble but also shows respect for the culture.
- Stay hydrated and protected – Walking around Sharjah is part of the fun. Always carry water, wear sunscreen, and a hat or sunglasses, especially if you’re venturing into the desert or spending time outdoors.
- Plan your transport wisely – Taxis, ride apps like Uber and Careem, public buses, and car hire all work well in Sharjah. Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility for desert trips or exploring outside the city, but traffic from Dubai can be unpredictable, so always check your route before setting off.
- Give yourself extra travel time from Dubai – Even though Dubai is only 30–40 minutes away, traffic can easily stretch the journey to over an hour. Factor in extra time when heading to or from Dubai, especially during rush hour or weekends.
- Explore beyond the city – Sharjah has hidden gems like Al Noor Island, the Mleiha Desert, and the mountains around Najd Al Meqsar. Planning your days to include both cultural sites and natural escapes will make your itinerary more memorable.
- Cash is handy – While most restaurants and hotels accept cards, markets, street food stalls, and small cafés often prefer cash. Keep some dirhams on hand for these experiences.
- Timing matters – Sharjah is best explored between November and March when temperatures are mild. If you visit during the summer, plan indoor activities or early morning/late afternoon excursions to avoid the heat.
Sharjah Itinerary FAQs
Is Sharjah good for tourists?
Yes! From heritage souks to desert adventures, it’s perfect for culture and nature lovers.
How many days do you need in Sharjah?
Five days is ideal to follow this Sharjah itinerary — enough for the city, desert, islands, and cultural sites.
Is Sharjah stricter than Dubai?
Yes. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and respect religious customs.
Is Sharjah worth visiting?
Absolutely. Its unique blend of history, nature, and adventure sets it apart from other UAE cities.
Is English spoken in Sharjah?
Yes. English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Is there anything to do in Sharjah?
Plenty! Explore souks, museums, islands, safari parks, desert adventures, and cultural hubs.
Best time to visit?
November–March for pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities.
Your Sharjah Itinerary: Why You’ll Fall in Love
This five-day Sharjah itinerary shows the emirate’s hidden gems. From historic souks and museums to desert landscapes, scenic islands, and vibrant waterfronts, it’s a completely different side of the UAE.
Wander through markets, explore cultural hubs, ride through deserts or relax by the bay. Sharjah offers culture, adventure and nature all in one trip.
For a deeper dive, check my Sharjah Travel Guide.
