Sharjah, United Arab Emirates-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Downtown Sharjah

Morning

  • Arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and take a taxi or metro to downtown Sharjah (~30-40 minutes)
  • Check-in at Al Bait Hotel (5-star), located in the heart of Sharjah’s historic district
  • Visit the nearby Sharjah Museum (open 8am-3pm, Sat-Thurs) to learn about the emirate’s history and culture

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming streets of downtown Sharjah, lined with traditional Arabic architecture and bustling souks
  • Stop by the Souk Al-Maya, a small, picturesque market selling local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Enjoy lunch at Al Falah Restaurant (traditional Emirati cuisine) or Shakespeare & Co. (Middle Eastern-inspired cafe)

Evening

  • Visit the Sharjah Heritage Centre (open 8am-3pm, Sat-Thurs), showcasing traditional Emirati architecture and way of life
  • Enjoy dinner at Bait Al Khair, a restaurant serving traditional Gulf cuisine with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf

Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Morning

  • Visit the Sharjah Desert Park (open 9am-5pm), featuring a botanical garden, reptile house, and children’s play area
  • Take a stroll along the scenic Ajman Beach, located just across the border in Ajman (~10-minute drive)

Afternoon

  • Go on a desert safari with Desert Adventure (book in advance) for a thrilling dune bashing experience and Arabic coffee tasting
  • Visit the nearby Al Qasba Al Sharjaha complex, featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment options

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Shakespeare & Co., serving Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine with outdoor seating areas

Day 3: Cultural Attractions

Morning

  • Visit the Calligraphy Museum (open 8am-3pm, Sat-Thurs), showcasing the art of Arabic calligraphy
  • Explore the nearby Souk Al-Mutawa’a, a bustling market selling local handicrafts and souvenirs

Afternoon

  • Visit the Sharjah Art Foundation (open 10am-6pm, Thu-Tue), featuring contemporary art exhibitions and installations
  • Stop by the Al Hisn Fort Museum (open 8am-3pm, Sat-Thurs), showcasing the history of Sharjah’s ruling family

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bait Al Khair, serving traditional Gulf cuisine with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf

Day 4: Relaxation and Leisure

Morning

  • Spend a relaxing morning at the Al Bait Hotel Spa (open 9am-7pm), offering treatments inspired by traditional Arabic rituals
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Sharjah Corniche, a scenic waterfront area with parks and cafes

Afternoon

  • Visit the Madinat Al Hissa Souk (open 10am-10pm, daily), a shopping complex featuring local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Enjoy lunch at Al Falah Restaurant or Shakespeare & Co.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bait Al Khair, serving traditional Gulf cuisine with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf

Day 5: Beaches and Water Activities

Morning

  • Visit the Kalba Beach (open 9am-5pm), a picturesque beach located just outside Sharjah city
  • Enjoy water sports and activities at the nearby Sharjah Marine Sports Club

Afternoon

  • Take a boat tour of the Arabian Gulf with Desert Adventure (book in advance) for a relaxing experience
  • Visit the Al Qasba Al Sharjaha complex, featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment options

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Shakespeare & Co., serving Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine with outdoor seating areas

Day 6: Family-Friendly Activities

Morning

  • Spend a fun-filled morning at the Sharjah Desert Park (open 9am-5pm), featuring a botanical garden, reptile house, and children’s play area
  • Take a stroll along the scenic Ajman Beach, located just across the border in Ajman (~10-minute drive)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Al Bait Hotel’s Kids’ Club (open 9am-7pm), offering activities and games for kids
  • Enjoy lunch at Al Falah Restaurant or Shakespeare & Co.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bait Al Khair, serving traditional Gulf cuisine with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend a leisurely morning shopping for souvenirs and last-minute gifts
  • Depart for Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)

Where to Stay:

  • Al Bait Hotel (5-star), located in the heart of Sharjah’s historic district
  • Other options include Sharjah Grand Hotel, Golden Tulip Sharjah, and Rose Hotel

Getting Around:

  • Taxi services are widely available throughout Sharjah city
  • Public transportation includes buses and metro lines connecting to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
  • Car rentals are also an option for exploring the surrounding area

Things to Know:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or cultural attractions
  • Don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled or filtered water instead
  • Be prepared for intense sunlight and heat during the summer months (June-August)

Tips and Essentials:

  • Book your accommodations and desert safari experiences in advance to avoid availability issues
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes and light clothing for exploring Sharjah city
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “hello” (مرحبا/ marhaba) and “thank you” (شكرا/ shukraan)

Enjoy your trip to Sharjah!