Sharjah’s towers and over-the-top everything won’t blow your mind like Dubai’s do. Actually, that’s the point. Although I’ve lived in the UAE for a long time, Sharjah feels more like home. Here you see just regular people doing normal things when you walk around the Heritage Area or get coffee at Al Qasba.
The best part of things to do in Sharjah is that you can go most places for free. This past month, I went to six to seven places, and the only thing we paid for was museum admission (10 AED each, not bad). In Dubai, on the other hand, everything costs a lot.
My top 10 picks of the best things to do in Sharjah are:
- Museum of Islamic Civilization
- Blue Souk
- Al Qasba
- House of Wisdom
- Khor Fakkan
- Al Heera Beach
- Heritage Area
- Sharjah National Park
- Al-Noor Mosque
- Al Hamriyah Beach
23 Best Things to Do in Sharjah: 5 Must-Visit Attractions
I’ve been exploring this emirate for a while now, and there are 23 fun things to do in Sharjah, and each one’s unique in its own way, and well, you should check them all out if you get the chance.
| Attraction Name | Entry Fee | Activity Type | Overall Rating |
| Rain Room | AED 25 (Adults) | Interactive Art / Immersive Experience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Aquarium | AED 25 (Adults) | Marine Life / Educational | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Qasba | Free Entry | Entertainment / Dining / Recreation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Arts Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Art Gallery / Cultural Heritage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Majaz Waterfront | Free Entry | Recreation / Dining / Shows | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Classic Car Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Automotive History / Museum | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Montazah Parks | AED 120 (Full Access) | Water Park / Amusement Park | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Arabian Wildlife Center | AED 15 (Adults) | Wildlife / Conservation / Educational | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Noor Island | AED 35 (Adults) | Nature / Butterfly House / Art | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Discovery Centre | AED 10 (Kids) | Children’s Museum / Educational | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Art Foundation | Free (Most Exhibitions) | Contemporary Art / Cultural Hub | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Al Mahatta Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Aviation History / Museum | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Adventureland | Card System: AED 11-26/Ride | Indoor Theme Park / Arcade | ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5 |
| Sharjah Science Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Science / Interactive Learning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Mleiha Archaeological Centre | AED 25 (Adults) | Archaeology / Desert Adventures | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Kalba (Multiple Sites) | AED 5-50 (Varies by Site) | Nature / Wildlife / Heritage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Academy of Astronomy | AED 22 (Adults) | Space Science / Planetarium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Al Hefaiyah Lake | Kayak AED 20/Hour | Recreation / Nature / Dining | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Rabi Mountain Trail | Free | Hiking / Nature / Scenic Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Island of Legends | AED 120 (Full Access) | Amusement Park / Family Fun | ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5 |
| Islamic Botanical Garden | AED 15 (Adults) | Botanical Garden / Cultural | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Najd Al Maqsar Village | Accommodation Rates Vary | Heritage Village / Accommodation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Flipped Park | Time-Based Passes | Indoor Play / Trampoline Park | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
1. Walk Through Rain Without Getting Wet at Rain Room
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Majarra, Sharjah (opposite Lulu Hypermarket) |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 9 AM – 9 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 10 PM, Sat: 9 AM – 9 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 25, Students: AED 15, Kids under 5: Free |
| Duration | 15 minutes per session |
| Contact | +971 6 561 0095 |
Here it rains all around you, but you don’t get wet at all. That’s pretty much what goes on at Rain Room, and it’s one of the must-do things to do in Sharjah for couples.

There are 3D cameras and sensors all over the place that can tell where you are. For example, when you move forward, the rain stops right above your head. Because the lighting is so gloomy and the room is dark, your figure stands out against the falling water wonderfully. Also, all 2,500 liters of water are recycled, so it’s good for the earth.
The thing is, you only have 15 minutes inside, which seems really short at first. But because it’s so powerful, once you’re in there, it seems like enough time has passed.
What to Do at Rain Room
- Walk slowly through continuous rainfall
- Take silhouette photos with a rain backdrop
- Watch the rain stop and start around you
- Bring someone to photograph you from different angles
- Store bags on the shelf provided
- Test different walking speeds with sensors
- Book tickets online beforehand
- Visit weekday evenings for shorter waits
What Visitors Say about Rain Room
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| Is the technology impressive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How good are photo opportunities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Does it stay dry as promised? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is the price worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How suitable for children? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is 15 minutes enough time? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How easy is booking? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
2. See Over 150 Marine Creatures at Sharjah Aquarium
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Khan, Sharjah (next to the Maritime Museum) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 25, Children (2-12): AED 15, Under 2: Free |
| Species Count | Over 150 marine species |
| Contact | +971 6 528 5288 |
Sharjah Aquarium has different underwater scenes, such as coral reefs, mangroves, ponds, and rocky beaches. As you go through the tunnels, things get really interesting because fish swim all around you, even above your head.

The last time I brought my cousins here, they stood there and stared up at the sharks and rays for about ten minutes. We can say that visiting Sharjah Aquarium is the best thing to do in Sharjah with kids.
It’s a good deal because your ticket lets you enter both the aquarium and the Maritime Museum next door. Then, you can spend an hour or two at the museum, based on how long you read the boards.
What to Do at Sharjah Aquarium
- Spot reef sharks and stingrays
- Find tiny seahorses hiding
- Watch moray eels in the rocks
- See clownfish in coral
- Check out the floating jellyfish
- Use interactive touch screens
- Learn about coral ecosystems
- Visit the Maritime Museum included
- Catch feeding demonstrations
- Do a kids’ activity station at the end.
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Aquarium
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How diverse is the marine life? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities family-friendly? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How well-maintained are exhibits? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the size adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How engaging for children? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
3. Enjoy Dining and Boat Rides at Al Qasba
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Khan Corniche St, Al Majaz area |
| Opening Hours | Most places: 8 AM – 12 AM (varies) |
| Entry Fee | Free entry; boat rides AED 15 adults, AED 10 kids |
| Boat Tour Times | Weekdays: 4 PM – 12 AM, Weekends: 4 PM – 1 AM |
| Fountain Shows | Thursday & Friday only |
Restaurants, bars, art studios, and shops are on both sides of a river that runs through the middle of Al Qasba. Walking in Al Qasba is the best thing to do in Sharjah for free.

At dusk, when the lights come on and the air cools down, the place really comes to life. You can ride down the canal on a traditional wooden boat for 15 AED while the guide talks to you about the area. In addition to being cheap, floating along the water is a nice way to see things from a different point of view.
There are even restaurants across the street in Al Qasba that serve Turkish, Italian, and Arabic food, and the Maraya Art Center is on the other side. Kids don’t feel left out either because they can run around on the field and rent these little go-karts to ride around the area.
What to Do at Al Qasba
- Take a canal boat ride (AED 15/10)
- Watch Musical Fountain Thursday/Friday
- Browse Maraya Art Centre galleries
- Eat at diverse restaurants
- Get coffee at waterfront cafes
- Let kids play at Fun Zone
- Try Turkish ice cream
- Rent BYKY go-karts for kids
- See Al Qasba Theatre shows
- Walk canal gardens
- Shop at boutiques
What Visitors Say About Al Qasba
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| Is there variety in activities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How good is the atmosphere? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are dining options diverse? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How impressive is the fountain? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is it suitable for families? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How is the value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Can you spend a full evening? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
4. Discover Arab Art at Sharjah Arts Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Arts Area, Heart of Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free admission |
| Artworks | Over 500 pieces across 3 floors |
| Contact | +971 6 568 8222 |
Sharjah Arts Museum has three floors and more than 500 paintings and sculptures by Arab artists. It looks like any other building from the outside, but when you go inside, you’ll find art from Syria, Palestine, Egypt, Morocco, Iraq, and other places.

There is no charge to enter, which is pretty unusual for a museum of this caliber. Also, the shows change all year long, so there’s always new art to see. You can even read about specific artists in the library, and the cafe is a nice place to relax between floors. In the end, we can judge that it is one of the best things to do in Sharjah for adults.
What to Do at Sharjah Arts Museum
- Browse 500+ artworks on 3 floors
- Visit the Barjeel Foundation wing
- See art from multiple Arab countries
- Check temporary exhibitions
- Take a free guided tour
- Read in art library (4,000+ books)
- Rest at the museum cafe
- Buy unique art books
- Photograph galleries (check rules)
- Attend workshops
What Visitors Say About the Arts Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive is the collection? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it worth the visit? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are exhibitions well-curated? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How educational is the visit? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is there enough to see? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
5. Relax by Khalid Lagoon at Al Majaz Waterfront
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khalid Lake Trail, opposite City Centre |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 hours (activities from 10 AM) |
| Entry Fee | Free; Splash Park AED 25/child |
| Total Area | 231,000 square feet |
| Main Feature | Sharjah Musical Fountain |
When you just need to get away from home, Al Majaz is the best thing to do in Sharjah with family because it has green grass, palm trees, and views of the water. This fountain shoots water in designs that match the music and lights. It’s kind of like Dubai’s fountain, but smaller.

Meanwhile, families put out picnic blankets on the grass, walkers do laps around the running track, and kids play in the water play area.
Clean bathrooms and lots of room to move around are just a few of the nice touches. Plus, if you get hungry, there are restaurants all along the boardwalk, from quick coffee shops to full meals with a view. Then, after dark, the Al Noor Mosque across the water is beautifully lit up.
What to Do at Al Majaz Waterfront
- Watch Musical Fountain shows
- Walk or jog on the running track
- Let kids play at Splash Park (AED 25)
- Have a grass picnic
- Play miniature golf
- Take lagoon boat rides
- Rent bikes
- Eat at waterfront restaurants
- View Al Noor Mosque at night
- Join fitness classes
- Attend seasonal events
- Use free WiFi
- Take sunset photos
What Visitors Say About Al Majaz Waterfront
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How beautiful are the views? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the fountain show worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How family-friendly is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is the dining quality good? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How is parking availability? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Can you visit for free? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
6. See Classic Cars from the 1900s at Sharjah Classic Car Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Airport Rd (between 4th & 5th intersections) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5, Under 2: Free |
| Collection Size | 100+ vintage vehicles |
| Contact | +971 6 558 0223 |
Sharjah Classic Car Museum has more than 100 old cars, motorbikes, and bikes from the early 1900s. Actually, the oldest car here is from 1917. Old Dodges and Mercedes-Benzes of all eras are on show, and you can get very close to these beautiful cars. Plus, the cars are set up by age, so as you go from one area to the next, you’re walking through the history of cars.

It’s cool that the museum does more than just show cars; it gives information. For example, there are posters from different decades, models of the UAE’s first gas station, and even displays that show how cars were used during the war.
What to Do at Sharjah Classic Car Museum
- Browse 100+ vintage cars and motorcycles
- See the 1917 Dodge (oldest model)
- Check out the 1969 Mercedes Pullman (one of 2,600)
- View cars from different eras (1915-1987)
- See the UAE’s first gas station model
- Let kids play interactive games
- Visit the 1974 MG Midget display
- Explore Rolls-Royce and Ford collections
- Learn about cars in wartime
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Classic Car Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive is the collection? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable for children? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are displays well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is the price worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How interactive is it? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is there enough variety? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
7. Splash and Play at Al Montazah Parks
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Flag Island, Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Wed: 2 PM – 11 PM, Thu-Sun: varies |
| Entry Fee | Water Park: AED 120 (110cm+), AED 75 (under 110cm) |
| Two Parks | Pearls Kingdom (water) & Island of Legends (rides) |
| Contact | +971 6 511 0555 |
One park admission at Al Montazah gets you into both Pearls Kingdom and Island of Legends. Summer is a great time to go to the water park because it has over 25 rides and other water activities that will cool you off.

Everyone here is wearing a lifeguard shirt, the water is clean, and there are lots of shady places to rest. The thing that stands out the most is how well-organized everything is compared to other parks in the area.
It’s dry on the Island of Legends, which has roller coasters, spinning wheels, and a lot of rides with pirate and tale themes. Also, when the sun goes down, the Eye of Emirates spinning wheel gives you a great view of Sharjah.
What to Do at Al Montazah Parks
- Ride 25+ water slides at Pearls Kingdom
- Float on the lazy river
- Play in the wave pool
- Try the King’s Palace drop slides
- Explore Pirates Coast for kids
- Ride the Eye of Emirates Ferris wheel
- Go on roller coasters at the Island of Legends
- Try go-karts and bumper cars
- Watch the foam party (usually 5 PM)
- Rent lockers for belongings
- Eat at the on-site restaurants
What Visitors Say About Al Montazah Parks
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are the water rides? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it family-friendly? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How clean are facilities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are rides well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How are the crowds? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
8. Meet Arabian Wildlife at Arabian Wildlife Center
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Dhaid Road (26km from city center) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Wed: 9 AM – 5:30 PM, Thu: 11 AM – 5:30 PM, Fri: 2 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 15, Children (12-16): AED 5, Under 12: Free |
| Species Count | Around 100 species |
| Contact | +971 6 531 1999 |
Approximately 100 types of animals that live in the Arabian Peninsula live in the Sharjah Arabian Wildlife Center. The indoor, air-conditioned layout sets it apart from other zoos, which is great because you can visit even on the hottest summer days. It’s divided into areas for birds, snakes, animals that come out at night, and big cats like leopards and cheetahs.

Because it’s part of Sharjah Desert Park, the wildlife center, natural history museum, floral park, and children’s farm are all included in one ticket. So, we can say it is one of the unique things to do in Sharjah. In most cases, if you drive between the parts, it takes most people about two to three hours to do everything.
What to Do at Arabian Wildlife Center
- See Arabian leopards and cheetahs
- Watch nocturnal animals in reverse day/night
- Visit the reptile house (snakes, lizards)
- Check out the bird aviary
- See blind cavefish from Oman
- Meet caracals and sand cats
- Watch baboons and hyenas
- Visit Children’s Farm (feed animals)
- Explore the Natural History Museum
- Walk through the Botanical Garden
What Visitors Say About Arabian Wildlife Center
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How diverse is wildlife? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are animals well-kept? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the location convenient? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How comfortable is the visit? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
9. Escape to Nature at Al Noor Island
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khalid Lagoon (accessible via bridge from Corniche St) |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 9 AM – 11 PM, Fri-Sun: 9 AM – 12 AM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 35, Children (3-12): AED 20 |
| Main Feature | Butterfly House with 500+ butterflies |
| Contact | +971 6 506 7000 |
Walking on Al Noor Island in the middle of Sharjah is like going to a different world. Over 500 butterflies from 20 different kinds live in a butterfly house on this small island that is connected to the mainland by a bridge for pedestrians.

Also, it’s really the best thing to do in Sharjah for couples to walk through the butterfly house because the brightly colored animals just flutter around you.
Beyond the butterflies, the island is beautifully planted, with walking paths, modern statues, and thousands of plants that make every spot in the shade. There is even a literary pavilion where you can read or simply relax quietly. There is also a playground for youngsters and a nice café with a view of the ocean.
What to Do at Al Noor Island
- Visit the Butterfly House (500+ butterflies)
- Learn about butterfly life cycles
- Walk among landscaped gardens
- See modern art installations
- Read at the Literature Pavilion
- Let kids play at the playground
- Take photos with LED light displays
- Relax at Noor Cafe
- Do yoga at sunrise (Saturdays)
- Join gardening workshops monthly
- Browse the gift shop
What Visitors Say About Al Noor Island
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How beautiful is the setting? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the butterfly house worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it good for photography? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
10. Let Kids Learn Through Play at Sharjah Discovery Centre
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Airport Rd (opposite Classic Car Museum) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5, Under 2: Free |
| Age Range | Designed for kids 3-12 years |
| Contact | +971 6 558 6577 |
Discovery Center is made for kids ages 3 to 12, and it has seven main areas that teach about everything from the human body to making TV shows. Who doesn’t love playing with construction cranes and building blocks? Well, Build Town is a close second.

Each area in the Sharjah Discovery Center covers a different subject. For example, there is a small grocery store where kids can learn about nutrition, a TV studio where they can act like newscasters, and even a fake airport with baggage check.
They can build waterfalls and learn about sea life in Water World, and also, Sports World has basketball courts and climbing walls.
What to Do at Sharjah Discovery Centre
- Drive electric cars in Drive Town
- Build structures in Build Town
- Go through airport check-in procedures
- Design water fountains
- Produce TV shows in the studio
- Play at the supermarket exhibit
- Try sports at Sports World
- Listen to stories in the Storyteller Area
- Explore the oil refinery exhibit
- Do arts and crafts workshops
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Discovery Center
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How engaging for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How well-maintained is it? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is it suitable for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How safe is the environment? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
11. Explore Contemporary Art at Sharjah Art Foundation
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Mureijah Square, Heart of Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 9 AM – 9 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 9 PM |
| Entry Fee | Most exhibitions: Free, Rain Room: AED 25 (adults) |
| Main Event | Sharjah Biennial (every 2 years) |
| Contact | Available on the official website |
Before 2009, Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi started Al Mureijah Square and then the Sharjah Art Foundation. Here at Sharjah Art Foundation, you can walk through rooms with walls made of coral stone that are hundreds of years old, and then you walk into a brand-new, white art area.

Every two years, the Biennial invites artists from all over the world, and I mean all over the world. But you really don’t need to wait for that, though. Moreover, there’s always something interesting going on.
Meanwhile, the library upstairs has a great selection of art books, if that interests you. In addition, they hold classes on a daily basis, teaching things like writing and pottery.
What to Do at Sharjah Art Foundation
- Browse contemporary art exhibitions
- Visit the Rain Room installation
- Explore restored heritage buildings
- Attend artist talks and film screenings
- Join calligraphy or pottery workshops
- Read at the spacious art library
- Watch performances and live music
- Take kids to educational programs
- Visit during Sharjah Biennial (every 2 years)
- Attend March Meeting (annual gathering)
- Relax at the on-site café
- Browse the gift shop
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Art Foundation
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive are exhibitions? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the architecture beautiful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How accessible is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it suitable for families? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How engaging are programs? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
12. Step Into Aviation History at Al Mahatta Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Mahatta area, opposite Al Qasimya District |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM (Currently closed) |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5 |
| Collection | 8 historic aircraft, aviation artifacts |
| Contact | +971 6 573 3079 |
In 1932, Sharjah’s first airport opened so that planes going from Britain to India could stop during their trip. Nowadays, it’s a museum with real old planes that you can touch. Within the main garage are eight planes, one of which is this beautiful DC-3 that looks like it could still fly if you asked it nicely.

Also, inside a 1962 VC-10, you can sit in the same seats that people used many years ago. The flight engineer’s seat is still in there, maps are spread out, and headphones are hanging.
It looks like the crew just went outside for coffee. Aside from the planes, there are a lot of old pictures that show Sharjah as a small town with an airport. It even has a copy of the first movie theater in the Arabian Gulf, which opened in 1945.
What to Do at Al Mahatta Museum
- Explore 8 vintage aircraft in the hangar
- Sit inside the 1962 VC-10 passenger plane
- Check out the 1953 Comet cockpit
- See the DC-3 aircraft up close
- Watch films about 1930s Sharjah
- See the first Gulf cinema replica
- Take photos with vintage planes
What Visitors Say About Al Mahatta Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive is the collection? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it interactive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is it suitable for children? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
13. Have Indoor Fun at Adventureland
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sahara Centre, Levels 1 & 2, Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Sun-Thu: 10 AM – 11 PM, Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 12 AM |
| Entry Fee | Rechargeable card system: AED 11-26 per ride |
| Total Area | 90,000 sq ft indoor theme park |
| Contact | +971 6 531 6363 |
Sharjah Adventureland is the biggest indoor fun zone in this part of the UAE, covering 90,000 square feet inside the Sahara Centre mall with rides and games. Although it’s inside, there are three roller coasters going through the space.

Also, you can ride what looks like a motorcycle through turns and curves on the Rocket Cycles, but the Kukulcan drops you off these steep hills that make your stomach flip. You just need to buy a card for entering Sharjah Adventureland and put money on it. Then you just swipe it to pay for any ride you want.
Among all the things to do in Sharjah with kids, Jungle Kids and Kids Canopy in Adventureland are two huge play areas where kids can run and climb for hours. A mirror tunnel that confuses everyone, a lot of VR games, and even a scary house for those who are feeling brave are also there.
What to Do at Sharjah Adventureland
- Ride 3 indoor roller coasters
- Try the Rocket Cycles motorbike coaster
- Experience Falcon Flight zipline
- Get lost in the Mirror Maze
- Play over 170 arcade games
- Try VR gaming experiences
- Let kids play in soft play areas
- Test your skills at carnival games
- Experience the Air Race thrill ride
- Enjoy the Power Wheel spinning ride
- Book birthday party packages
- Try the horror attraction
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Adventureland
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are the rides? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is there enough variety? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How suitable is it for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are rides well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
14. Get Hands-On at Sharjah Science Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Road, Al Abar area |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5 |
| Exhibits | 50+ interactive displays |
| Contact | +971 6 566 8777 |
Sharjah Science Museum opened back in 1996 with a goal to make science fun instead of boring. This museum has fifty-plus hands-on exhibits that let you mess around with physics and biology stuff without anyone telling you to stop touching things.

You can test how fast your reflexes are, play with optical illusions that mess with your eyes, and figure out how sound moves through water versus air.
They also have this section where you can test your own strength and flexibility, which turns into a competition real quick when siblings are involved. In addition, every day they run workshops for kids aged 6-12, and all the materials are provided, so you just show up.
The whole Sharjah Science Museum takes maybe two or three hours to cover and is among the best things to do in Sharjah with family.
What to Do at Sharjah Science Museum
- Explore 50+ interactive exhibits
- Visit the planetarium
- Join daily drop-in workshops
- Test your reflexes and reactions
- Explore the human body displays
- Use microscopes to examine specimens
- Understand how sound travels
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Science Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it interactive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How engaging for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are facilities modern? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How suitable for families? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
15. Go Through Ancient History at Mleiha Archaeological Centre
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Mleiha (65km southeast of Sharjah city) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Wed: 9 AM – 7 PM, Thu-Fri: 9 AM – 9 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 25, Children (3-12): AED 15, Family (2+3): AED 55 |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Tentative List site |
| Contact | +971 6 802 1111 |
Mleiha has had people living there for over 130,000 years, and UNESCO has named this place a world heritage site. It has both a real museum and real desert adventures through tombs and forts that are thousands of years old.

The Mleiha Archaeological Centre has fossils and pottery from the Stone Age to right before Islam came to the area. Even a fort from 2,000 years ago still stands there, showing that this place was very important from a military point of view.
For those who want to go on a 4WD tour, Fossil Rock in Mleiha Archaeological Centre has fossils of sea creatures that lived 80 million years ago, which are actually built into the rock.
You can even do the best things to do in Sharjah this weekend here, like horseback riding for beginners or for experienced riders, ride a fat-tired bike through the desert that can handle any terrain, take a thrilling dune buggy ride, or even use a telescope to look at the stars.
What to Do at Mleiha Archaeological Centre
- Visit the 2,000-year-old Mleiha Fort
- See Umm an-Nar Tomb (2300 BCE)
- Take 4WD desert safari tours
- Visit the Fossil Rock formation
- Trek to Camel Rock
- Join fossil hunt expeditions
- Go horseback riding (all levels)
- Try overnight desert camping
- Ride FatBoy bikes across dunes
- Book the ArchaeoMOG Unimog tour
What Visitors Say About Mleiha Archaeological Centre
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How historically significant is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are desert activities fun? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
16. Discover Nature and Heritage at Kalba
| Detail | Information |
| Location | East Coast (120km east of Sharjah city) |
| Main Sites | Mangrove Centre, Bird of Prey Centre, Kalba Beach |
| Entry Fees | Varies by attraction: AED 5-50 |
| Known For | Oldest mangroves in Arabia, rare birds |
| Distance from Fujairah | 12km |
Kalba sits on the east coast where ancient mangrove forests meet the ocean. They’re the oldest mangroves in Arabia, and walking along the wooden boardwalks while trying to spot the rare white-collared kingfisher is the best thing to do in Sharjah for free.

They will give you a kayak to rent and paddle right through the calm waters, so you can get super close to the mangrove roots where crabs and small fish hang out.
But Kalba’s got way more than just mangroves, and there are many. For example, the Bird of Prey Centre puts on shows twice a day with falcons, eagles, and vultures. Then there’s Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre, where you ride around in golf carts to see Arabian leopards, gazelles, and hyenas in big enclosures that look like their natural habitat.
What to Do in Kalba
- Kayak in the mangrove creek
- Spot rare white-collared kingfishers
- Visit the Bird of Prey Centre shows
- Tour Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre
- See Arabian leopards and gazelles
- Relax at Kalba Beach (7km long)
- Visit the Bait Sheikh Saeed Heritage Museum
- Explore Kalba Hanging Gardens
- Dine at Fen Café overlooking mangroves
- Take boat rides on Kalba Lake
- Go birdwatching at Al Hefaiyah Lake
- Stay overnight at Kingfisher Retreat
What Visitors Say About Kalba
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How beautiful is nature? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it good for wildlife spotting? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are attractions diverse? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Are facilities well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
17. Look at Stars at Sharjah Academy of Astronomy
| Detail | Information |
| Location | University City, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Rd |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 8:30 AM – 3 PM (evening slots sometimes Thu) |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 22, Children (4-12): AED 11 |
| Main Attraction | Planetarium with a 10-million-star projector |
| Contact | Check the official website |
Sharjah Academy of Astronomy is more like a planetarium dome that sits in the middle of University City and looks like a huge golden sun. To be more specific, around the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy are eight smaller buildings that look like planets.

One of the most powerful star displays in the area is inside that dome, showing more than 10 million stars, and seeing them is one of the fun things to do in Sharjah. Generally, during the 45-minute planetarium shows, you can learn about everything from black holes to the life cycle of stars.
Beyond the planetarium, there are four halls that take you through the history of astronomy. These halls include:
- Astrolabes and other old tools
- Einstein’s ideas of relativity
- A really interesting part about references to space in the Quran.
The asteroid collection has more than 8,000 pieces, while outside, the 300,000-square-meter Cosmic Park has models of planets that you can walk between, following tracks that look like orbits.
What to Do at Sharjah Academy
- Watch planetarium shows (45 minutes)
- See the 10-million-star projection
- Visit the Universe in the Quran exhibition
- Browse 8,000+ meteorite pieces
- Walk through Cosmic Park
- See the Apollo 11 Lunar Lander replica
- Try hands-on space experiments
- Learn about Islamic astronomy
- Take photos with planet models
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Academy
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive are exhibits? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the planetarium worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities modern? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it suitable for young kids? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
18. Chill by Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sharjah-Kalba Road (S102), Al Hafia |
| Opening Hours | Boat rentals: 4 PM – 1 AM daily |
| Main Activities | Kayaking, boating, hiking, dining |
| Distance from Dubai | 1.5 hours |
| Parking | Free around the lake |
Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba holds 155 million gallons of water and sits perfectly between the highway and mountains, shaped to fit the natural landscape rather than being some perfect circle.

It’s 4 meters deep with water that stays clean thanks to filtering systems that catch sediment before it reaches the lake. You can drive the full 2.3km loop around it, stopping wherever looks good for photos or just to sit and stare at the mountains reflecting in the water.
There are two restaurants that look out over the lake. One is Simuli, which serves a variety of foods, including Emirati meals, and the other is Mara, which offers lighter fare like burgers and sandwiches. Both have floor-to-ceiling windows that let you see the mountains while you eat.
Starting at 4 PM, when it’s cooler, you can take a boat or kayak at Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba. A single kayak at Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba costs 20 AED an hour, and powered boats cost 100–130 AED, based on how many people you have.
What to Do at Al Hefaiyah Lake
- Rent kayaks (single or double)
- Take motorized boat rides
- Walk 2.3km around the lake
- Go hiking on mountain trails
- Have picnics in grassy areas
- Dine at Simuli Restaurant
- Grab coffee at Mara Lounge
- Let kids play in the playground
- Drive the scenic loop
- Pray at Al Hefaiyah Mosque
What Visitors Say About Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How scenic is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are activities diverse? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How family-friendly is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
19. Hike Al Rabi Mountain Trail
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khorfakkan (1.5 hours from Dubai) |
| Trail Length | 4-5 km round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 2-3 hours total |
| Summit Elevation | 379m (1,290 ft) |
| Best Season | November – March |
Al Rabi Tower is at the trailhead and was built in 1915 as part of Khorfakkan’s watchtower defense network. The trail zigzags up from there, with the Gulf of Oman stretching out to your left and mountains rising to your right the whole way.

It’s well-marked with signs every few hundred meters showing distances, plus rest stops with benches where you can catch your breath. The first peak at Al Rabi Tower comes after about 40-50 minutes, with a UAE flag marking the spot.
From that first peak of Al Rabi Tower, the path continues to the summit, where a tall yellow tower stands with what’s usually a pretty beat-up flag flapping in the wind. Views from up there show the port with all its yellow cranes, Shark Island sitting offshore, and the city of Khorfakkan spread below.
What to Do at Al Rabi Trail
- Hike to the first peak (349m)
- Continue to summit (379m)
- Take photos at Al Rabi Tower
- Rest at designated stops
- See Khorfakkan Port views
- Spot Shark Island offshore
- Watch the sunrise from the trail
- Visit on Saturday mornings
- Bring lots of water
- Explore the descent loop
- Check out the surrounding valleys
- Pack snacks for breaks
What Visitors Say About Al Rabi Trail
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How scenic are the views? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the trail well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable is it for beginners? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Is it safe? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
20. Have Fun at the Island of Legends
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Montazah Parks, Flag Island, Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 2 PM – 11 PM |
| Entry Fee | Park entrance: AED 30, Full access: AED 120 |
| Total Rides | 40+ attractions |
| Part of | Al Montazah Parks complex |
About Island of Legends
Al Montazah Parks has both the Island of Legends and Pearls Kingdom water park next to each other. The themed areas have more than 40 rides, ranging from kid-friendly carousels to the super-scary Dragon Discovery.

The Eye of Emirates wheel is the most famous feature in the Island of Legends, and also their huge Ferris wheel takes you 42 stories high and gives you a view of the Al Majaz Waterfront, Khalid Lagoon, and other famous places in Sharjah. Also, you can get into the Time Train since it goes around the whole park in a circle.
Attractions in Sharjah Island of Legends include a Spanish fair area, a Viking town, and even a recreation of Antarctica, complete with igloos. There are even food stands all over the park that sell normal amusement park food. It’s nothing fancy, but it gets you through the day.
What to Do at the Island of Legends
- Ride the Eye of Emirates wheel
- Take the Time Train tour
- Try Dragon Discovery launch
- Explore Extreme Adventure ropes
- Enjoy the Loch Ness Spin Boat
- Ride Volcano Tower free-fall
- Play at Le Palais (young kids)
- Experience Baz Coaster
- Visit Viking Journey
- Take Balloons ride
- Enjoy the Spanish carnival area
- Book birthday party packages
What Visitors Say About the Island of Legends
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are the rides? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is theming impressive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable is it for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are rides well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
21. Walk Through the Islamic Botanical Garden
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sharjah Desert Park, Al Dhaid Highway (E88) |
| Opening Hours | Sun-Thu: 9 AM – 5:30 PM, Fri: 2 PM – 5:30 PM, Sat: 11 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 15, Children (under 12): Free |
| Plants Featured | 50+ species from the Quran and Sunnah |
| Opened | 2014 |
In this Islamic botanical garden, almost 100 different plants grow, and all of them are listed in the Quran or Hadith. These plants include figs, pomegranates, dates, olives, saffron, herbs, and more.

Each plant in the Islamic botanical garden has a name in both Arabic and English, as well as an engaging smart screen that tells you about its religious meaning, medical uses, and health benefits.
In general, the park is based on Islamic books that talk about heaven. It has waterfalls, covered walks, and narrow water lines that are based on traditional aflaj watering systems.
The Islamic botanical garden offers many things to do in Sharjah for free since there is an education center with exhibitions about plants in Islamic culture, and a cave area that gives more historical information.
What to Do at the Islamic Botanical Garden
- Walk shaded pathways
- See 50+ Quranic plants
- Read smart screen displays
- Visit the interpretation center
- Dine at the on-site café
- Browse the library
- See traditional irrigation
- Take photos of gardens
- Smell aromatic herbs
- Relax in outdoor seating
What Visitors Say About the Islamic Botanical Garden
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How engaging for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How unique is the concept? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
22. Step Back in Time at Najd Al Maqsar Village
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khorfakkan Road, Wadi Shie |
| Historical Age | 300 years old |
| Accommodation | 7 restored heritage units |
| Main Feature | Al Maqsar Fortress |
| Distance from Sharjah | 50 minutes |
Najd Al Maqsar village has thirteen old houses that were made almost 100 years ago as safe havens from flooding in the valley. It shows how buildings were built hundreds of years ago using traditional methods, with walls made of stone and mud and tops made from palm leaves.

On top of the mountain is the 300-year-old Al Maqsar Fortress, which is part of Khorfakkan’s network of watchtowers. Seven units were recently fixed up and turned into real places to stay where you can spend the night. They also have modern features like air conditioning and TVs hidden inside traditional architecture.
In a wadi, the town is located, and there are springs and other water sources nearby. These water sources fed the old falaj irrigation system, which watered date palm farms. You can even hike to Al Rafisah Dam along paths that go through hills with abandoned terraced farms. So, Najd Al Maqsar village is one of the best things to do in Sharjah for free.
What to Do at Najd Al Maqsar
- Stay in heritage accommodation
- Hike to Al Maqsar Fortress
- Walk trails to Rafisah Dam
- See 100-year-old houses
- Spend a night at Wishi Restaurant
- See date palm farms
- Enjoy mountain panoramas
- Experience traditional architecture
- Visit ancient terraced farms
What Visitors Say About Najd Al Maqsar
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How historically significant is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the accommodation comfortable? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities modern? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
23. Jump Around at Flipped Park
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sahara Centre Extension, 2nd Floor |
| Opening Hours | Sun-Thu: 10 AM – 11 PM, Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 12 AM |
| Entry System | Time-based passes (1-2 hours) |
| Age Range | 2 years – Adults |
| Main Zones | Jumpverse, AirSphere, RopeEscape, Tiny Tumble |
Flipped is spread out over two floors in the addition of the Sahara Center, with different areas for different kinds of activities. It has slam dunk basketball courts, obstacle courses where you can bounce all over, and trampolines that go all the way to the ceiling.

Children can spend hours exploring the huge soft play area called AirSphere in Flipped Park, which has ball pits, slides, and climbing structures.
Meanwhile, parents can easily wait in the waiting areas or go to the Cosmo Café to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching their children play. Moreover, parties for birthdays come with decorations, food, and special places just for the party.
What to Do at Flipped Park
- Jump on trampolines
- Play in ball pits
- Try rope courses
- Ride kiddie go-karts
- Explore soft play areas
- Do a slam dunk in basketball
- Navigate obstacle courses
- Use toddler zone (Tiny Tumble)
- Book birthday parties
- Relax at Cosmo Café
- Buy Wednesday passes
What Visitors Say About Flipped Park
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are activities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it clean and safe? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How suitable is it for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
Final Thoughts: Wonderful Things To Do in Sharjah
What no one tells you about Sharjah is that it looks a lot like the UAE did before it became all about making itself look bigger, better, and more expensive. You get so many things to do in Sharjah, like when you walk through a fort in Najd Al Maqsar that is 300 years old, or boat through mangroves that have been here longer than any of the shiny towers next door.
My London friend who went last month said it was like finding the UAE’s chillier older brother or sister who likes history books and nature walks instead of clubs and supercars.
The most surprising thing to me about all of these places is how different each weekend can be here. One Saturday, you sleep under stars that are still visible because of the city lights. The next weekend, you take your kids to an air-conditioned trampoline park to let off steam, and the following weekend, you walk through modern art installations that look like they belong in Berlin or New York.
FAQs: Things To Do in Sharjah
What are the best things to do in Sharjah for adults?
The Sharjah Art Foundation has world-class contemporary art in restored buildings, where I spent hours last month without seeing a single kid. For adventure, Mleiha Archaeological Centre offers overnight desert camping, dune buggies, and exploring 2,000-year-old forts away from family crowds.
What can you do in Sharjah for free?
Both Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Qasba are free to visit, and you can watch fountain shows, walk along canals, and pick a spot to sit by the water. The Sharjah Art Foundation also lets you into most of their shows for free, which surprised me the first time I went.
What are some unique things to do in Sharjah?
The Rain Room lets you walk through actual rainfall without getting wet because sensors stop water around your body, and Najd Al Maqsar Village offers overnight stays in 300-year-old houses with modern AC hidden inside traditional architecture.
What are the best things to do in Sharjah with kids?
Sharjah Science Museum is one of the best things to do in Sharjah with kids, and also Flipped Park, because it has trampolines and soft play that keep them busy for hours in AC.
What are romantic things to do in Sharjah for couples?
Al Noor Island at sunset with 500 butterflies and quiet gardens hits differently than typical date spots. Also, overnight camping at Mleiha under completely dark skies with a BBQ dinner is pretty magical if you’re both into nature.
What should you do in Sharjah this weekend?
Saturday morning, hit Al Rabi Mountain Trail before the heat kicks in because the views are incredible and it takes about 3 hours total. Then, on Sunday, check out the Classic Car Museum for AED 10 or catch the free fountain show at Al Majaz in the evening.
What are good family things to do in Sharjah?
Arabian Wildlife Center works for literally everyone because it’s mostly indoors with AC and easy walking. Even grandparents handle it fine. On the other hand, Al Qasba gives you free entry, restaurants for every taste, and the canal walk keeps all ages happy.
What Are the 23 Best Things To Do in Sharjah? (Prices + Location + Ratings)
Sharjah’s towers and over-the-top everything won’t blow your mind like Dubai’s do. Actually, that’s the point. Although I’ve lived in the UAE for a long time, Sharjah feels more like home. Here you see just regular people doing normal things when you walk around the Heritage Area or get coffee at Al Qasba.
The best part of things to do in Sharjah is that you can go most places for free. This past month, I went to six to seven places, and the only thing we paid for was museum admission (10 AED each, not bad). In Dubai, on the other hand, everything costs a lot.
My top 10 picks of the best things to do in Sharjah are:
- Museum of Islamic Civilization
- Blue Souk
- Al Qasba
- House of Wisdom
- Khor Fakkan
- Al Heera Beach
- Heritage Area
- Sharjah National Park
- Al-Noor Mosque
- Al Hamriyah Beach
23 Best Things to Do in Sharjah: 5 Must-Visit Attractions
I’ve been exploring this emirate for a while now, and there are 23 fun things to do in Sharjah, and each one’s unique in its own way, and well, you should check them all out if you get the chance.
| Attraction Name | Entry Fee | Activity Type | Overall Rating |
| Rain Room | AED 25 (Adults) | Interactive Art / Immersive Experience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Aquarium | AED 25 (Adults) | Marine Life / Educational | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Qasba | Free Entry | Entertainment / Dining / Recreation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Arts Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Art Gallery / Cultural Heritage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Majaz Waterfront | Free Entry | Recreation / Dining / Shows | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Classic Car Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Automotive History / Museum | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Montazah Parks | AED 120 (Full Access) | Water Park / Amusement Park | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Arabian Wildlife Center | AED 15 (Adults) | Wildlife / Conservation / Educational | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Noor Island | AED 35 (Adults) | Nature / Butterfly House / Art | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Discovery Centre | AED 10 (Kids) | Children’s Museum / Educational | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Art Foundation | Free (Most Exhibitions) | Contemporary Art / Cultural Hub | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Al Mahatta Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Aviation History / Museum | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Adventureland | Card System: AED 11-26/Ride | Indoor Theme Park / Arcade | ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5 |
| Sharjah Science Museum | AED 10 (Adults) | Science / Interactive Learning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Mleiha Archaeological Centre | AED 25 (Adults) | Archaeology / Desert Adventures | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Kalba (Multiple Sites) | AED 5-50 (Varies by Site) | Nature / Wildlife / Heritage | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Sharjah Academy of Astronomy | AED 22 (Adults) | Space Science / Planetarium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Al Hefaiyah Lake | Kayak AED 20/Hour | Recreation / Nature / Dining | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Al Rabi Mountain Trail | Free | Hiking / Nature / Scenic Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Island of Legends | AED 120 (Full Access) | Amusement Park / Family Fun | ⭐⭐⭐ 3/5 |
| Islamic Botanical Garden | AED 15 (Adults) | Botanical Garden / Cultural | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
| Najd Al Maqsar Village | Accommodation Rates Vary | Heritage Village / Accommodation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 |
| Flipped Park | Time-Based Passes | Indoor Play / Trampoline Park | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 |
1. Walk Through Rain Without Getting Wet at Rain Room
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Majarra, Sharjah (opposite Lulu Hypermarket) |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 9 AM – 9 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 10 PM, Sat: 9 AM – 9 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 25, Students: AED 15, Kids under 5: Free |
| Duration | 15 minutes per session |
| Contact | +971 6 561 0095 |
Here it rains all around you, but you don’t get wet at all. That’s pretty much what goes on at Rain Room, and it’s one of the must-do things to do in Sharjah for couples.
There are 3D cameras and sensors all over the place that can tell where you are. For example, when you move forward, the rain stops right above your head. Because the lighting is so gloomy and the room is dark, your figure stands out against the falling water wonderfully. Also, all 2,500 liters of water are recycled, so it’s good for the earth.
The thing is, you only have 15 minutes inside, which seems really short at first. But because it’s so powerful, once you’re in there, it seems like enough time has passed.
What to Do at Rain Room
- Walk slowly through continuous rainfall
- Take silhouette photos with a rain backdrop
- Watch the rain stop and start around you
- Bring someone to photograph you from different angles
- Store bags on the shelf provided
- Test different walking speeds with sensors
- Book tickets online beforehand
- Visit weekday evenings for shorter waits
What Visitors Say about Rain Room
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| Is the technology impressive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How good are photo opportunities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Does it stay dry as promised? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is the price worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How suitable for children? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is 15 minutes enough time? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How easy is booking? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
2. See Over 150 Marine Creatures at Sharjah Aquarium
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Khan, Sharjah (next to the Maritime Museum) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 25, Children (2-12): AED 15, Under 2: Free |
| Species Count | Over 150 marine species |
| Contact | +971 6 528 5288 |
Sharjah Aquarium has different underwater scenes, such as coral reefs, mangroves, ponds, and rocky beaches. As you go through the tunnels, things get really interesting because fish swim all around you, even above your head.
The last time I brought my cousins here, they stood there and stared up at the sharks and rays for about ten minutes. We can say that visiting Sharjah Aquarium is the best thing to do in Sharjah with kids.
It’s a good deal because your ticket lets you enter both the aquarium and the Maritime Museum next door. Then, you can spend an hour or two at the museum, based on how long you read the boards.
What to Do at Sharjah Aquarium
- Spot reef sharks and stingrays
- Find tiny seahorses hiding
- Watch moray eels in the rocks
- See clownfish in coral
- Check out the floating jellyfish
- Use interactive touch screens
- Learn about coral ecosystems
- Visit the Maritime Museum included
- Catch feeding demonstrations
- Do a kids’ activity station at the end.
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Aquarium
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How diverse is the marine life? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities family-friendly? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How well-maintained are exhibits? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the size adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How engaging for children? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
3. Enjoy Dining and Boat Rides at Al Qasba
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Khan Corniche St, Al Majaz area |
| Opening Hours | Most places: 8 AM – 12 AM (varies) |
| Entry Fee | Free entry; boat rides AED 15 adults, AED 10 kids |
| Boat Tour Times | Weekdays: 4 PM – 12 AM, Weekends: 4 PM – 1 AM |
| Fountain Shows | Thursday & Friday only |
Restaurants, bars, art studios, and shops are on both sides of a river that runs through the middle of Al Qasba. Walking in Al Qasba is the best thing to do in Sharjah for free.
At dusk, when the lights come on and the air cools down, the place really comes to life. You can ride down the canal on a traditional wooden boat for 15 AED while the guide talks to you about the area. In addition to being cheap, floating along the water is a nice way to see things from a different point of view.
There are even restaurants across the street in Al Qasba that serve Turkish, Italian, and Arabic food, and the Maraya Art Center is on the other side. Kids don’t feel left out either because they can run around on the field and rent these little go-karts to ride around the area.
What to Do at Al Qasba
- Take a canal boat ride (AED 15/10)
- Watch Musical Fountain Thursday/Friday
- Browse Maraya Art Centre galleries
- Eat at diverse restaurants
- Get coffee at waterfront cafes
- Let kids play at Fun Zone
- Try Turkish ice cream
- Rent BYKY go-karts for kids
- See Al Qasba Theatre shows
- Walk canal gardens
- Shop at boutiques
What Visitors Say About Al Qasba
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| Is there variety in activities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How good is the atmosphere? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are dining options diverse? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How impressive is the fountain? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is it suitable for families? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How is the value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Can you spend a full evening? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
4. Discover Arab Art at Sharjah Arts Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Arts Area, Heart of Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free admission |
| Artworks | Over 500 pieces across 3 floors |
| Contact | +971 6 568 8222 |
Sharjah Arts Museum has three floors and more than 500 paintings and sculptures by Arab artists. It looks like any other building from the outside, but when you go inside, you’ll find art from Syria, Palestine, Egypt, Morocco, Iraq, and other places.
There is no charge to enter, which is pretty unusual for a museum of this caliber. Also, the shows change all year long, so there’s always new art to see. You can even read about specific artists in the library, and the cafe is a nice place to relax between floors. In the end, we can judge that it is one of the best things to do in Sharjah for adults.
What to Do at Sharjah Arts Museum
- Browse 500+ artworks on 3 floors
- Visit the Barjeel Foundation wing
- See art from multiple Arab countries
- Check temporary exhibitions
- Take a free guided tour
- Read in art library (4,000+ books)
- Rest at the museum cafe
- Buy unique art books
- Photograph galleries (check rules)
- Attend workshops
What Visitors Say About the Arts Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive is the collection? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it worth the visit? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are exhibitions well-curated? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How educational is the visit? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is there enough to see? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
5. Relax by Khalid Lagoon at Al Majaz Waterfront
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khalid Lake Trail, opposite City Centre |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 hours (activities from 10 AM) |
| Entry Fee | Free; Splash Park AED 25/child |
| Total Area | 231,000 square feet |
| Main Feature | Sharjah Musical Fountain |
When you just need to get away from home, Al Majaz is the best thing to do in Sharjah with family because it has green grass, palm trees, and views of the water. This fountain shoots water in designs that match the music and lights. It’s kind of like Dubai’s fountain, but smaller.
Meanwhile, families put out picnic blankets on the grass, walkers do laps around the running track, and kids play in the water play area.
Clean bathrooms and lots of room to move around are just a few of the nice touches. Plus, if you get hungry, there are restaurants all along the boardwalk, from quick coffee shops to full meals with a view. Then, after dark, the Al Noor Mosque across the water is beautifully lit up.
What to Do at Al Majaz Waterfront
- Watch Musical Fountain shows
- Walk or jog on the running track
- Let kids play at Splash Park (AED 25)
- Have a grass picnic
- Play miniature golf
- Take lagoon boat rides
- Rent bikes
- Eat at waterfront restaurants
- View Al Noor Mosque at night
- Join fitness classes
- Attend seasonal events
- Use free WiFi
- Take sunset photos
What Visitors Say About Al Majaz Waterfront
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How beautiful are the views? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the fountain show worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How family-friendly is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is the dining quality good? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How is parking availability? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Can you visit for free? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
6. See Classic Cars from the 1900s at Sharjah Classic Car Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Airport Rd (between 4th & 5th intersections) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5, Under 2: Free |
| Collection Size | 100+ vintage vehicles |
| Contact | +971 6 558 0223 |
Sharjah Classic Car Museum has more than 100 old cars, motorbikes, and bikes from the early 1900s. Actually, the oldest car here is from 1917. Old Dodges and Mercedes-Benzes of all eras are on show, and you can get very close to these beautiful cars. Plus, the cars are set up by age, so as you go from one area to the next, you’re walking through the history of cars.
It’s cool that the museum does more than just show cars; it gives information. For example, there are posters from different decades, models of the UAE’s first gas station, and even displays that show how cars were used during the war.
What to Do at Sharjah Classic Car Museum
- Browse 100+ vintage cars and motorcycles
- See the 1917 Dodge (oldest model)
- Check out the 1969 Mercedes Pullman (one of 2,600)
- View cars from different eras (1915-1987)
- See the UAE’s first gas station model
- Let kids play interactive games
- Visit the 1974 MG Midget display
- Explore Rolls-Royce and Ford collections
- Learn about cars in wartime
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Classic Car Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive is the collection? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable for children? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are displays well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is the price worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How interactive is it? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is there enough variety? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
7. Splash and Play at Al Montazah Parks
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Flag Island, Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Wed: 2 PM – 11 PM, Thu-Sun: varies |
| Entry Fee | Water Park: AED 120 (110cm+), AED 75 (under 110cm) |
| Two Parks | Pearls Kingdom (water) & Island of Legends (rides) |
| Contact | +971 6 511 0555 |
One park admission at Al Montazah gets you into both Pearls Kingdom and Island of Legends. Summer is a great time to go to the water park because it has over 25 rides and other water activities that will cool you off.
Everyone here is wearing a lifeguard shirt, the water is clean, and there are lots of shady places to rest. The thing that stands out the most is how well-organized everything is compared to other parks in the area.
It’s dry on the Island of Legends, which has roller coasters, spinning wheels, and a lot of rides with pirate and tale themes. Also, when the sun goes down, the Eye of Emirates spinning wheel gives you a great view of Sharjah.
What to Do at Al Montazah Parks
- Ride 25+ water slides at Pearls Kingdom
- Float on the lazy river
- Play in the wave pool
- Try the King’s Palace drop slides
- Explore Pirates Coast for kids
- Ride the Eye of Emirates Ferris wheel
- Go on roller coasters at the Island of Legends
- Try go-karts and bumper cars
- Watch the foam party (usually 5 PM)
- Rent lockers for belongings
- Eat at the on-site restaurants
What Visitors Say About Al Montazah Parks
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are the water rides? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it family-friendly? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How clean are facilities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are rides well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How are the crowds? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
8. Meet Arabian Wildlife at Arabian Wildlife Center
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Dhaid Road (26km from city center) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Wed: 9 AM – 5:30 PM, Thu: 11 AM – 5:30 PM, Fri: 2 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 15, Children (12-16): AED 5, Under 12: Free |
| Species Count | Around 100 species |
| Contact | +971 6 531 1999 |
Approximately 100 types of animals that live in the Arabian Peninsula live in the Sharjah Arabian Wildlife Center. The indoor, air-conditioned layout sets it apart from other zoos, which is great because you can visit even on the hottest summer days. It’s divided into areas for birds, snakes, animals that come out at night, and big cats like leopards and cheetahs.
Because it’s part of Sharjah Desert Park, the wildlife center, natural history museum, floral park, and children’s farm are all included in one ticket. So, we can say it is one of the unique things to do in Sharjah. In most cases, if you drive between the parts, it takes most people about two to three hours to do everything.
What to Do at Arabian Wildlife Center
- See Arabian leopards and cheetahs
- Watch nocturnal animals in reverse day/night
- Visit the reptile house (snakes, lizards)
- Check out the bird aviary
- See blind cavefish from Oman
- Meet caracals and sand cats
- Watch baboons and hyenas
- Visit Children’s Farm (feed animals)
- Explore the Natural History Museum
- Walk through the Botanical Garden
What Visitors Say About Arabian Wildlife Center
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How diverse is wildlife? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are animals well-kept? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the location convenient? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How comfortable is the visit? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
9. Escape to Nature at Al Noor Island
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khalid Lagoon (accessible via bridge from Corniche St) |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 9 AM – 11 PM, Fri-Sun: 9 AM – 12 AM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 35, Children (3-12): AED 20 |
| Main Feature | Butterfly House with 500+ butterflies |
| Contact | +971 6 506 7000 |
Walking on Al Noor Island in the middle of Sharjah is like going to a different world. Over 500 butterflies from 20 different kinds live in a butterfly house on this small island that is connected to the mainland by a bridge for pedestrians.
Also, it’s really the best thing to do in Sharjah for couples to walk through the butterfly house because the brightly colored animals just flutter around you.
Beyond the butterflies, the island is beautifully planted, with walking paths, modern statues, and thousands of plants that make every spot in the shade. There is even a literary pavilion where you can read or simply relax quietly. There is also a playground for youngsters and a nice café with a view of the ocean.
What to Do at Al Noor Island
- Visit the Butterfly House (500+ butterflies)
- Learn about butterfly life cycles
- Walk among landscaped gardens
- See modern art installations
- Read at the Literature Pavilion
- Let kids play at the playground
- Take photos with LED light displays
- Relax at Noor Cafe
- Do yoga at sunrise (Saturdays)
- Join gardening workshops monthly
- Browse the gift shop
What Visitors Say About Al Noor Island
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How beautiful is the setting? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the butterfly house worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it good for photography? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
10. Let Kids Learn Through Play at Sharjah Discovery Centre
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Airport Rd (opposite Classic Car Museum) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5, Under 2: Free |
| Age Range | Designed for kids 3-12 years |
| Contact | +971 6 558 6577 |
Discovery Center is made for kids ages 3 to 12, and it has seven main areas that teach about everything from the human body to making TV shows. Who doesn’t love playing with construction cranes and building blocks? Well, Build Town is a close second.
Each area in the Sharjah Discovery Center covers a different subject. For example, there is a small grocery store where kids can learn about nutrition, a TV studio where they can act like newscasters, and even a fake airport with baggage check.
They can build waterfalls and learn about sea life in Water World, and also, Sports World has basketball courts and climbing walls.
What to Do at Sharjah Discovery Centre
- Drive electric cars in Drive Town
- Build structures in Build Town
- Go through airport check-in procedures
- Design water fountains
- Produce TV shows in the studio
- Play at the supermarket exhibit
- Try sports at Sports World
- Listen to stories in the Storyteller Area
- Explore the oil refinery exhibit
- Do arts and crafts workshops
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Discovery Center
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How engaging for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How well-maintained is it? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is it suitable for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How safe is the environment? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
11. Explore Contemporary Art at Sharjah Art Foundation
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Mureijah Square, Heart of Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 9 AM – 9 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 9 PM |
| Entry Fee | Most exhibitions: Free, Rain Room: AED 25 (adults) |
| Main Event | Sharjah Biennial (every 2 years) |
| Contact | Available on the official website |
Before 2009, Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi started Al Mureijah Square and then the Sharjah Art Foundation. Here at Sharjah Art Foundation, you can walk through rooms with walls made of coral stone that are hundreds of years old, and then you walk into a brand-new, white art area.
Every two years, the Biennial invites artists from all over the world, and I mean all over the world. But you really don’t need to wait for that, though. Moreover, there’s always something interesting going on.
Meanwhile, the library upstairs has a great selection of art books, if that interests you. In addition, they hold classes on a daily basis, teaching things like writing and pottery.
What to Do at Sharjah Art Foundation
- Browse contemporary art exhibitions
- Visit the Rain Room installation
- Explore restored heritage buildings
- Attend artist talks and film screenings
- Join calligraphy or pottery workshops
- Read at the spacious art library
- Watch performances and live music
- Take kids to educational programs
- Visit during Sharjah Biennial (every 2 years)
- Attend March Meeting (annual gathering)
- Relax at the on-site café
- Browse the gift shop
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Art Foundation
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive are exhibitions? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the architecture beautiful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How accessible is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it suitable for families? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How engaging are programs? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
12. Step Into Aviation History at Al Mahatta Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Mahatta area, opposite Al Qasimya District |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM (Currently closed) |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5 |
| Collection | 8 historic aircraft, aviation artifacts |
| Contact | +971 6 573 3079 |
In 1932, Sharjah’s first airport opened so that planes going from Britain to India could stop during their trip. Nowadays, it’s a museum with real old planes that you can touch. Within the main garage are eight planes, one of which is this beautiful DC-3 that looks like it could still fly if you asked it nicely.
Also, inside a 1962 VC-10, you can sit in the same seats that people used many years ago. The flight engineer’s seat is still in there, maps are spread out, and headphones are hanging.
It looks like the crew just went outside for coffee. Aside from the planes, there are a lot of old pictures that show Sharjah as a small town with an airport. It even has a copy of the first movie theater in the Arabian Gulf, which opened in 1945.
What to Do at Al Mahatta Museum
- Explore 8 vintage aircraft in the hangar
- Sit inside the 1962 VC-10 passenger plane
- Check out the 1953 Comet cockpit
- See the DC-3 aircraft up close
- Watch films about 1930s Sharjah
- See the first Gulf cinema replica
- Take photos with vintage planes
What Visitors Say About Al Mahatta Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive is the collection? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is it interactive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is it suitable for children? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
13. Have Indoor Fun at Adventureland
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sahara Centre, Levels 1 & 2, Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Sun-Thu: 10 AM – 11 PM, Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 12 AM |
| Entry Fee | Rechargeable card system: AED 11-26 per ride |
| Total Area | 90,000 sq ft indoor theme park |
| Contact | +971 6 531 6363 |
Sharjah Adventureland is the biggest indoor fun zone in this part of the UAE, covering 90,000 square feet inside the Sahara Centre mall with rides and games. Although it’s inside, there are three roller coasters going through the space.
Also, you can ride what looks like a motorcycle through turns and curves on the Rocket Cycles, but the Kukulcan drops you off these steep hills that make your stomach flip. You just need to buy a card for entering Sharjah Adventureland and put money on it. Then you just swipe it to pay for any ride you want.
Among all the things to do in Sharjah with kids, Jungle Kids and Kids Canopy in Adventureland are two huge play areas where kids can run and climb for hours. A mirror tunnel that confuses everyone, a lot of VR games, and even a scary house for those who are feeling brave are also there.
What to Do at Sharjah Adventureland
- Ride 3 indoor roller coasters
- Try the Rocket Cycles motorbike coaster
- Experience Falcon Flight zipline
- Get lost in the Mirror Maze
- Play over 170 arcade games
- Try VR gaming experiences
- Let kids play in soft play areas
- Test your skills at carnival games
- Experience the Air Race thrill ride
- Enjoy the Power Wheel spinning ride
- Book birthday party packages
- Try the horror attraction
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Adventureland
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are the rides? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is there enough variety? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How suitable is it for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are rides well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
14. Get Hands-On at Sharjah Science Museum
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Road, Al Abar area |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 8 PM, Fri: 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 10, Children (2-12): AED 5 |
| Exhibits | 50+ interactive displays |
| Contact | +971 6 566 8777 |
Sharjah Science Museum opened back in 1996 with a goal to make science fun instead of boring. This museum has fifty-plus hands-on exhibits that let you mess around with physics and biology stuff without anyone telling you to stop touching things.
You can test how fast your reflexes are, play with optical illusions that mess with your eyes, and figure out how sound moves through water versus air.
They also have this section where you can test your own strength and flexibility, which turns into a competition real quick when siblings are involved. In addition, every day they run workshops for kids aged 6-12, and all the materials are provided, so you just show up.
The whole Sharjah Science Museum takes maybe two or three hours to cover and is among the best things to do in Sharjah with family.
What to Do at Sharjah Science Museum
- Explore 50+ interactive exhibits
- Visit the planetarium
- Join daily drop-in workshops
- Test your reflexes and reactions
- Explore the human body displays
- Use microscopes to examine specimens
- Understand how sound travels
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Science Museum
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it interactive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How engaging for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are facilities modern? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How suitable for families? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
15. Go Through Ancient History at Mleiha Archaeological Centre
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Mleiha (65km southeast of Sharjah city) |
| Opening Hours | Sat-Wed: 9 AM – 7 PM, Thu-Fri: 9 AM – 9 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 25, Children (3-12): AED 15, Family (2+3): AED 55 |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Tentative List site |
| Contact | +971 6 802 1111 |
Mleiha has had people living there for over 130,000 years, and UNESCO has named this place a world heritage site. It has both a real museum and real desert adventures through tombs and forts that are thousands of years old.
The Mleiha Archaeological Centre has fossils and pottery from the Stone Age to right before Islam came to the area. Even a fort from 2,000 years ago still stands there, showing that this place was very important from a military point of view.
For those who want to go on a 4WD tour, Fossil Rock in Mleiha Archaeological Centre has fossils of sea creatures that lived 80 million years ago, which are actually built into the rock.
You can even do the best things to do in Sharjah this weekend here, like horseback riding for beginners or for experienced riders, ride a fat-tired bike through the desert that can handle any terrain, take a thrilling dune buggy ride, or even use a telescope to look at the stars.
What to Do at Mleiha Archaeological Centre
- Visit the 2,000-year-old Mleiha Fort
- See Umm an-Nar Tomb (2300 BCE)
- Take 4WD desert safari tours
- Visit the Fossil Rock formation
- Trek to Camel Rock
- Join fossil hunt expeditions
- Go horseback riding (all levels)
- Try overnight desert camping
- Ride FatBoy bikes across dunes
- Book the ArchaeoMOG Unimog tour
What Visitors Say About Mleiha Archaeological Centre
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How historically significant is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are desert activities fun? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it educational? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
16. Discover Nature and Heritage at Kalba
| Detail | Information |
| Location | East Coast (120km east of Sharjah city) |
| Main Sites | Mangrove Centre, Bird of Prey Centre, Kalba Beach |
| Entry Fees | Varies by attraction: AED 5-50 |
| Known For | Oldest mangroves in Arabia, rare birds |
| Distance from Fujairah | 12km |
Kalba sits on the east coast where ancient mangrove forests meet the ocean. They’re the oldest mangroves in Arabia, and walking along the wooden boardwalks while trying to spot the rare white-collared kingfisher is the best thing to do in Sharjah for free.
They will give you a kayak to rent and paddle right through the calm waters, so you can get super close to the mangrove roots where crabs and small fish hang out.
But Kalba’s got way more than just mangroves, and there are many. For example, the Bird of Prey Centre puts on shows twice a day with falcons, eagles, and vultures. Then there’s Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre, where you ride around in golf carts to see Arabian leopards, gazelles, and hyenas in big enclosures that look like their natural habitat.
What to Do in Kalba
- Kayak in the mangrove creek
- Spot rare white-collared kingfishers
- Visit the Bird of Prey Centre shows
- Tour Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre
- See Arabian leopards and gazelles
- Relax at Kalba Beach (7km long)
- Visit the Bait Sheikh Saeed Heritage Museum
- Explore Kalba Hanging Gardens
- Dine at Fen Café overlooking mangroves
- Take boat rides on Kalba Lake
- Go birdwatching at Al Hefaiyah Lake
- Stay overnight at Kingfisher Retreat
What Visitors Say About Kalba
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How beautiful is nature? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it good for wildlife spotting? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are attractions diverse? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Are facilities well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
17. Look at Stars at Sharjah Academy of Astronomy
| Detail | Information |
| Location | University City, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Rd |
| Opening Hours | Mon-Thu: 8:30 AM – 3 PM (evening slots sometimes Thu) |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 22, Children (4-12): AED 11 |
| Main Attraction | Planetarium with a 10-million-star projector |
| Contact | Check the official website |
Sharjah Academy of Astronomy is more like a planetarium dome that sits in the middle of University City and looks like a huge golden sun. To be more specific, around the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy are eight smaller buildings that look like planets.
One of the most powerful star displays in the area is inside that dome, showing more than 10 million stars, and seeing them is one of the fun things to do in Sharjah. Generally, during the 45-minute planetarium shows, you can learn about everything from black holes to the life cycle of stars.
Beyond the planetarium, there are four halls that take you through the history of astronomy. These halls include:
- Astrolabes and other old tools
- Einstein’s ideas of relativity
- A really interesting part about references to space in the Quran.
The asteroid collection has more than 8,000 pieces, while outside, the 300,000-square-meter Cosmic Park has models of planets that you can walk between, following tracks that look like orbits.
What to Do at Sharjah Academy
- Watch planetarium shows (45 minutes)
- See the 10-million-star projection
- Visit the Universe in the Quran exhibition
- Browse 8,000+ meteorite pieces
- Walk through Cosmic Park
- See the Apollo 11 Lunar Lander replica
- Try hands-on space experiments
- Learn about Islamic astronomy
- Take photos with planet models
What Visitors Say About Sharjah Academy
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How impressive are exhibits? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the planetarium worth it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities modern? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it suitable for young kids? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
18. Chill by Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sharjah-Kalba Road (S102), Al Hafia |
| Opening Hours | Boat rentals: 4 PM – 1 AM daily |
| Main Activities | Kayaking, boating, hiking, dining |
| Distance from Dubai | 1.5 hours |
| Parking | Free around the lake |
Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba holds 155 million gallons of water and sits perfectly between the highway and mountains, shaped to fit the natural landscape rather than being some perfect circle.
It’s 4 meters deep with water that stays clean thanks to filtering systems that catch sediment before it reaches the lake. You can drive the full 2.3km loop around it, stopping wherever looks good for photos or just to sit and stare at the mountains reflecting in the water.
There are two restaurants that look out over the lake. One is Simuli, which serves a variety of foods, including Emirati meals, and the other is Mara, which offers lighter fare like burgers and sandwiches. Both have floor-to-ceiling windows that let you see the mountains while you eat.
Starting at 4 PM, when it’s cooler, you can take a boat or kayak at Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba. A single kayak at Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba costs 20 AED an hour, and powered boats cost 100–130 AED, based on how many people you have.
What to Do at Al Hefaiyah Lake
- Rent kayaks (single or double)
- Take motorized boat rides
- Walk 2.3km around the lake
- Go hiking on mountain trails
- Have picnics in grassy areas
- Dine at Simuli Restaurant
- Grab coffee at Mara Lounge
- Let kids play in the playground
- Drive the scenic loop
- Pray at Al Hefaiyah Mosque
What Visitors Say About Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How scenic is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are activities diverse? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How family-friendly is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
19. Hike Al Rabi Mountain Trail
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khorfakkan (1.5 hours from Dubai) |
| Trail Length | 4-5 km round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Duration | 2-3 hours total |
| Summit Elevation | 379m (1,290 ft) |
| Best Season | November – March |
Al Rabi Tower is at the trailhead and was built in 1915 as part of Khorfakkan’s watchtower defense network. The trail zigzags up from there, with the Gulf of Oman stretching out to your left and mountains rising to your right the whole way.
It’s well-marked with signs every few hundred meters showing distances, plus rest stops with benches where you can catch your breath. The first peak at Al Rabi Tower comes after about 40-50 minutes, with a UAE flag marking the spot.
From that first peak of Al Rabi Tower, the path continues to the summit, where a tall yellow tower stands with what’s usually a pretty beat-up flag flapping in the wind. Views from up there show the port with all its yellow cranes, Shark Island sitting offshore, and the city of Khorfakkan spread below.
What to Do at Al Rabi Trail
- Hike to the first peak (349m)
- Continue to summit (379m)
- Take photos at Al Rabi Tower
- Rest at designated stops
- See Khorfakkan Port views
- Spot Shark Island offshore
- Watch the sunrise from the trail
- Visit on Saturday mornings
- Bring lots of water
- Explore the descent loop
- Check out the surrounding valleys
- Pack snacks for breaks
What Visitors Say About Al Rabi Trail
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How scenic are the views? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the trail well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable is it for beginners? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Is it safe? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
20. Have Fun at the Island of Legends
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Al Montazah Parks, Flag Island, Sharjah |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 2 PM – 11 PM |
| Entry Fee | Park entrance: AED 30, Full access: AED 120 |
| Total Rides | 40+ attractions |
| Part of | Al Montazah Parks complex |
About Island of Legends
Al Montazah Parks has both the Island of Legends and Pearls Kingdom water park next to each other. The themed areas have more than 40 rides, ranging from kid-friendly carousels to the super-scary Dragon Discovery.
The Eye of Emirates wheel is the most famous feature in the Island of Legends, and also their huge Ferris wheel takes you 42 stories high and gives you a view of the Al Majaz Waterfront, Khalid Lagoon, and other famous places in Sharjah. Also, you can get into the Time Train since it goes around the whole park in a circle.
Attractions in Sharjah Island of Legends include a Spanish fair area, a Viking town, and even a recreation of Antarctica, complete with igloos. There are even food stands all over the park that sell normal amusement park food. It’s nothing fancy, but it gets you through the day.
What to Do at the Island of Legends
- Ride the Eye of Emirates wheel
- Take the Time Train tour
- Try Dragon Discovery launch
- Explore Extreme Adventure ropes
- Enjoy the Loch Ness Spin Boat
- Ride Volcano Tower free-fall
- Play at Le Palais (young kids)
- Experience Baz Coaster
- Visit Viking Journey
- Take Balloons ride
- Enjoy the Spanish carnival area
- Book birthday party packages
What Visitors Say About the Island of Legends
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are the rides? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Is theming impressive? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How suitable is it for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are rides well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Is food quality good? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
21. Walk Through the Islamic Botanical Garden
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sharjah Desert Park, Al Dhaid Highway (E88) |
| Opening Hours | Sun-Thu: 9 AM – 5:30 PM, Fri: 2 PM – 5:30 PM, Sat: 11 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | Adults: AED 15, Children (under 12): Free |
| Plants Featured | 50+ species from the Quran and Sunnah |
| Opened | 2014 |
In this Islamic botanical garden, almost 100 different plants grow, and all of them are listed in the Quran or Hadith. These plants include figs, pomegranates, dates, olives, saffron, herbs, and more.
Each plant in the Islamic botanical garden has a name in both Arabic and English, as well as an engaging smart screen that tells you about its religious meaning, medical uses, and health benefits.
In general, the park is based on Islamic books that talk about heaven. It has waterfalls, covered walks, and narrow water lines that are based on traditional aflaj watering systems.
The Islamic botanical garden offers many things to do in Sharjah for free since there is an education center with exhibitions about plants in Islamic culture, and a cave area that gives more historical information.
What to Do at the Islamic Botanical Garden
- Walk shaded pathways
- See 50+ Quranic plants
- Read smart screen displays
- Visit the interpretation center
- Dine at the on-site café
- Browse the library
- See traditional irrigation
- Take photos of gardens
- Smell aromatic herbs
- Relax in outdoor seating
What Visitors Say About the Islamic Botanical Garden
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How educational is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it well-maintained? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How engaging for kids? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How unique is the concept? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
22. Step Back in Time at Najd Al Maqsar Village
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Khorfakkan Road, Wadi Shie |
| Historical Age | 300 years old |
| Accommodation | 7 restored heritage units |
| Main Feature | Al Maqsar Fortress |
| Distance from Sharjah | 50 minutes |
Najd Al Maqsar village has thirteen old houses that were made almost 100 years ago as safe havens from flooding in the valley. It shows how buildings were built hundreds of years ago using traditional methods, with walls made of stone and mud and tops made from palm leaves.
On top of the mountain is the 300-year-old Al Maqsar Fortress, which is part of Khorfakkan’s network of watchtowers. Seven units were recently fixed up and turned into real places to stay where you can spend the night. They also have modern features like air conditioning and TVs hidden inside traditional architecture.
In a wadi, the town is located, and there are springs and other water sources nearby. These water sources fed the old falaj irrigation system, which watered date palm farms. You can even hike to Al Rafisah Dam along paths that go through hills with abandoned terraced farms. So, Najd Al Maqsar village is one of the best things to do in Sharjah for free.
What to Do at Najd Al Maqsar
- Stay in heritage accommodation
- Hike to Al Maqsar Fortress
- Walk trails to Rafisah Dam
- See 100-year-old houses
- Spend a night at Wishi Restaurant
- See date palm farms
- Enjoy mountain panoramas
- Experience traditional architecture
- Visit ancient terraced farms
What Visitors Say About Najd Al Maqsar
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How historically significant is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is the accommodation comfortable? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How peaceful is it? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities modern? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How accessible is the location? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| How unique is the experience? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
23. Jump Around at Flipped Park
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Sahara Centre Extension, 2nd Floor |
| Opening Hours | Sun-Thu: 10 AM – 11 PM, Fri-Sat: 10 AM – 12 AM |
| Entry System | Time-based passes (1-2 hours) |
| Age Range | 2 years – Adults |
| Main Zones | Jumpverse, AirSphere, RopeEscape, Tiny Tumble |
Flipped is spread out over two floors in the addition of the Sahara Center, with different areas for different kinds of activities. It has slam dunk basketball courts, obstacle courses where you can bounce all over, and trampolines that go all the way to the ceiling.
Children can spend hours exploring the huge soft play area called AirSphere in Flipped Park, which has ball pits, slides, and climbing structures.
Meanwhile, parents can easily wait in the waiting areas or go to the Cosmo Café to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching their children play. Moreover, parties for birthdays come with decorations, food, and special places just for the party.
What to Do at Flipped Park
- Jump on trampolines
- Play in ball pits
- Try rope courses
- Ride kiddie go-karts
- Explore soft play areas
- Do a slam dunk in basketball
- Navigate obstacle courses
- Use toddler zone (Tiny Tumble)
- Book birthday parties
- Relax at Cosmo Café
- Buy Wednesday passes
What Visitors Say About Flipped Park
| Aspect | Rating | Score |
| How fun are activities? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Is it clean and safe? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| How suitable is it for all ages? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Are the staff helpful? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 5/5 |
| Are facilities adequate? | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4/5 |
| Does it offer value for money? | ⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 |
| How crowded does it get? | ⭐⭐ | 2/5 |
Final Thoughts: Wonderful Things To Do in Sharjah
What no one tells you about Sharjah is that it looks a lot like the UAE did before it became all about making itself look bigger, better, and more expensive. You get so many things to do in Sharjah, like when you walk through a fort in Najd Al Maqsar that is 300 years old, or boat through mangroves that have been here longer than any of the shiny towers next door.
My London friend who went last month said it was like finding the UAE’s chillier older brother or sister who likes history books and nature walks instead of clubs and supercars.
The most surprising thing to me about all of these places is how different each weekend can be here. One Saturday, you sleep under stars that are still visible because of the city lights. The next weekend, you take your kids to an air-conditioned trampoline park to let off steam, and the following weekend, you walk through modern art installations that look like they belong in Berlin or New York.
FAQs: Things To Do in Sharjah
The Sharjah Art Foundation has world-class contemporary art in restored buildings, where I spent hours last month without seeing a single kid. For adventure, Mleiha Archaeological Centre offers overnight desert camping, dune buggies, and exploring 2,000-year-old forts away from family crowds.
Both Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Qasba are free to visit, and you can watch fountain shows, walk along canals, and pick a spot to sit by the water. The Sharjah Art Foundation also lets you into most of their shows for free, which surprised me the first time I went.
The Rain Room lets you walk through actual rainfall without getting wet because sensors stop water around your body, and Najd Al Maqsar Village offers overnight stays in 300-year-old houses with modern AC hidden inside traditional architecture.
Sharjah Science Museum is one of the best things to do in Sharjah with kids, and also Flipped Park, because it has trampolines and soft play that keep them busy for hours in AC.
Al Noor Island at sunset with 500 butterflies and quiet gardens hits differently than typical date spots. Also, overnight camping at Mleiha under completely dark skies with a BBQ dinner is pretty magical if you’re both into nature.
Saturday morning, hit Al Rabi Mountain Trail before the heat kicks in because the views are incredible and it takes about 3 hours total. Then, on Sunday, check out the Classic Car Museum for AED 10 or catch the free fountain show at Al Majaz in the evening.
Arabian Wildlife Center works for literally everyone because it’s mostly indoors with AC and easy walking. Even grandparents handle it fine. On the other hand, Al Qasba gives you free entry, restaurants for every taste, and the canal walk keeps all ages happy.


(2 votes, average: 4.00 out of 5)

