General information
Sharjah is the third largest of the seven states which form the United Arab Emirates. The settlement of Sharjah dates back some 5,000 years when it is believed to have been called Sarcoa. The population was small and people relied on trade and sea faring in addition to, farming, hunting, fishing and pearling. Many of the early settlements were based around the ‘falaj’, a man made underground water course.
Climate - Sharjah's climate is idyllic from November to April with warm sunny days, cool evenings and low humidity. Daytime temperatures range from 18 to 30 degrees C. From May to September the climate is hot with midday temperatures in July and August reaching in excess of 45 degrees C. Even the nights are warm averaging 25 degrees C. Humidity is often at 100% so all in all, it's stifling! Most people head to cooler climates during the summer.
Tourism - Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority is implementing new measures for the benefit of the Sharjah tourist trade . The Authority acts as coordinator to this sector. The development and improvement of tourism in Sharjah is given high priority. The visitors' experiences in Sharjah are to be optimized in order to attract more
Business - The Government of Sharjah provides basic infrastructure facilities and high quality services to improve industrial activities. It has established special industrial zones to the west of the city with an area of more than 40 sq.km. This area is divided into 16 subdivisions, each specializing in a certain industry. All zones are connected through a modern network of roads that link them to the seaports and airports of the Emirate.
Islamic Museum - The chants of the Holy Quran welcomes you to the air-conditioned lobby of this wonderful museum displaying a fascinating private collection of the Ruler of Sharjah, H H Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qassimi. Of interest is a replica of the curtain which covers the Holy Ka'aba stone in Mecca; rare, comprehensive, gold plated manuscripts; and beautiful works of Arabian art. A quaint attractions is a unique upside down world map, said to be the first, drawn by Sharif Al Idrisi more than a thousand years ago.
Al-Hisn MuseumAl-Hisn (Fort) Museum - This building, Al-Hisn (Fort) Museum, used to be the residence of the ruling family in Sharjah for about 200 years. It is the home for the beloved memories the Sharjah people inherited generation after another. A social centre and a public forum where citizens used to meet for happy and sad occasions, it became the symbol of their pride as well as their safe resort.
Al-Hisn MuseumBuilt by His Highness late Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qassimi in 1820, it preserved its official as well as public status until 1969, when a part of the house was removed due to the structural changes the city of Sharjah had then undergone. However, the house was rebuilt under the instructions and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Federal Council, Ruler of Sharjah.
Among the exhibits of the Museum is a documentary film displaying the process of the Hisn (Fort) rebuilding. However, the Museum is divided into several sections comprised in two storeys, comprising of various sections including the Al Qassimi Library, a Weapons room and a rest house and VIP room.
Majlis of Ibrahim Mohammed Al Midfa - Located between Souq Al Arsah and the waterfront, it is noted for its noted for its unique round windtower. On display are several small yet interesting items, a personal collection donated by the majlis owner, Al Midfa.
Sharjah Natural History Museum & Desert Park - Approximately 28 kms from Sharjah is the desert park which provides a living showcase of the wonderful world of desert ecology, flora and fauna. The park also contains the state-of-the-art museum which takes you through time, looking at man and his environment, and the fascinating world of the deserts and seas, both past and present. Among the many wonders is a real meteor and a fossilized thigh bone of a dinosaur.
The world's largest captive breeding center, a haven for the endangered Arabian leopard, is another attraction. The botanical garden exhibits several ecosystems and their flora, including wet wadi and mountain plants.
Other interesting places include the Sharjah Science Museums and Learning Center, a must for young children; the Archaeological Museum; the Planetarium; the Sharjah Art Museum; and the Art Center.
Visit www.shjmuseum.gov.ae for more information.
Blue SoukBlue Souk - Sharjah's most famous souk was constructed in 1979, a landmark with its design and popularity. Maintained by the Sharjah Municipality, the 600 assorted shops gives you better bargains for goods ranging from gold and precious stones to garments to perfumes and cosmetics. Located at Al Majaz, close to Khalid Lagoon.
For adventure seekers there is ample scope in watersports. Trekkers can hit straight for the rugged mountains, and fresh water streams of Khor Fakkan on the east coast or still go into the interiors of this spread out emirate spending some time in a lovely village oasis. And if that's not enough, you can either relax on an unspoilt beach, or simply take a quiet stroll through one of the many outstanding public parks. The options are varied and full of fun.
