Sharjah | United Arab Emirates

Sharjah – Detailed Information

Sharjah is the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and serves as the cultural capital of the country. Unlike Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which focus on luxury and business, Sharjah is known for its rich heritage, Islamic architecture, museums, and family-friendly atmosphere. The emirate has strict laws on alcohol consumption and public behavior, making it a more traditional and conservative destination.

Geography and Climate

Location: Sharjah is located on the northeastern coast of the UAE, bordering Dubai to the south, Ajman to the north, and the Gulf of Oman to the east.

Topography:

Coastal plains along the Persian Gulf.

Inland deserts with sand dunes and oases.

Mountainous areas in Dibba Al-Hisn and Khor Fakkan on the east coast.

Climate:

Hot desert climate, with high temperatures in summer (45°C / 113°F).

Cooler temperatures in winter (14–25°C / 57–77°F).

Humid conditions near the coast.

History

Ancient Civilization: Archaeological evidence suggests that Sharjah was inhabited as early as 5,000 BCE, with early settlements engaged in fishing, pearl diving, and trade.

Tribal Rule: The Al Qasimi family took control in the 18th century and remains the ruling family today.

Naval Conflicts: The British attacked the Qasimi fleet in the 19th century, leading to Sharjah signing the Trucial States treaty in 1820.

Pearl and Trade Economy: Sharjah was a key center for pearling and maritime trade until the decline of the pearl industry in the 1930s.

Formation of the UAE: Sharjah joined the United Arab Emirates in 1971 and later focused on culture, education, and tourism.

Government and Politics

Ruling Family: Sharjah is ruled by Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, who has been in power since 1972.

Absolute Monarchy: The emirate follows a traditional governance system, with policies focused on education, heritage, and family values.

Legal System:

Based on Sharia law and federal UAE laws.

Alcohol is completely banned in Sharjah.

Strict public decency and dress code laws.

Economy

Sharjah has a diversified economy, with a focus on industry, trade, education, and tourism.

Key Economic Sectors:

Manufacturing and Industry

Sharjah contributes nearly 50% of the UAE’s industrial output.

Major industrial zones: Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), and Industrial Areas.

Trade and Logistics

Port Khalid and Port Khor Fakkan serve as major shipping hubs.

Sharjah International Airport is a key center for cargo and budget airlines.

Education and Research

University City houses top institutions like American University of Sharjah (AUS) and University of Sharjah.

Tourism and Culture

Sharjah promotes family-friendly and cultural tourism, attracting visitors to museums, heritage sites, and festivals.

Real Estate and Infrastructure

Sharjah offers affordable housing, attracting many people who work in Dubai but live in Sharjah.

Culture and Society

Demographics

Population: Over 1.7 million people.

Expatriate Majority: Large communities from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, and the Philippines.

Languages

Arabic is the official language.

English, Hindi, and Urdu are widely spoken due to the expatriate population.

Religion

Islam is the official and dominant religion.

Christian churches and Hindu temples exist, but religious activities are regulated.

Traditional Dress

Men: Wear the kandura (white robe) and ghutra (headscarf).

Women: Wear the abaya (black robe) and shayla (headscarf).

Modest dress is required in public places.

Cuisine

Traditional Emirati dishes:

Majboos (spiced rice with meat).

Harees (wheat and meat porridge).

Luqaimat (sweet dumplings).

Sharjah has a strong food culture, with restaurants serving Middle Eastern, Indian, and African cuisine.

Education

Sharjah is a leading center for higher education and research, with major universities including:

American University of Sharjah (AUS) – One of the UAE’s top universities.

University of Sharjah – Known for medical and engineering programs.

Skyline University College – Business and IT-focused.

Sharjah also has private and international schools, offering British, American, and IB curricula.

Infrastructure and Transport

Roads and Highways

E11 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road) connects Sharjah to Dubai and other emirates.

Traffic congestion is a common issue due to commuters traveling to Dubai.

Public Transport

Sharjah Transport Authority operates buses and taxis.

No metro or tram system, unlike Dubai.

Airports

Sharjah International Airport (SHJ):

A major hub for Air Arabia, the UAE’s first budget airline.

Important for cargo transport.

Ports

Port Khalid – Handles commercial shipping.

Port Khor Fakkan – A major container transshipment port on the Gulf of Oman.

Urban Development and Sustainability

Al Noor Island – A green urban retreat with an eco-friendly approach.

Sharjah Sustainable City – Focuses on solar energy and water conservation.

Sharjah’s Urban Planning Council works on smart city initiatives.

Tourism and Entertainment

Unlike Dubai’s luxury tourism, Sharjah focuses on culture, heritage, and family-friendly attractions.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization – Houses rare Islamic artifacts.

Sharjah Art Museum – A leading art gallery in the UAE.

Sharjah Heritage Area – Preserves traditional Emirati architecture.

Shopping and Souks

Blue Souk (Central Market) – A famous traditional market for gold, textiles, and handicrafts.

Mega Mall & Sahara Centre – Popular modern malls.

Beaches and Outdoor Activities

Al Mamzar Beach & Al Khan Beach – Family-friendly beaches.

Sharjah Desert Park – A wildlife conservation area.

Mleiha Archaeological Centre – Offers desert safaris and fossil exploration.

Festivals and Events

Sharjah International Book Fair – One of the largest book fairs in the world.

Sharjah Light Festival – Features light shows on historic landmarks.

Sharjah Heritage Days – Celebrates traditional Emirati culture.

Conclusion

Sharjah is the cultural heart of the UAE, offering a blend of heritage, education, and family-friendly attractions. With its rich history, strong economy, and focus on sustainability, Sharjah is a key part of the UAE’s future development while maintaining its traditional values.