Sharjah Heritage Area
The Sharjah Heritage Area is a small, restored neighborhood in downtown Sharjah, stretching from the waterfront to Sharjah's fort. Inside the district, a number of traditional Emirati houses have been preserved and now are home to museums.
Three of the museums are well worth a visit for insights into Emirati heritage. Sharjah Heritage Museum hosts exhibits covering all facets of traditional Emirati life.
The Calligraphy Museum explores this Arab art form, with galleries hung with work from the Arab world's finest calligraphy artists. And Bait Al Naboodah is a finely restored traditional family villa, once home to the Al-Shamsi family.
A number of traditional souk areas have also been revived in the neighborhood - Souk Al Arsah is the best one to visit. This large covered courtyard souk is thought to be the oldest surviving bazaar in the country. It has been fully restored in its traditional style and now includes a number of different shops featuring silver and wooden handicrafts, jewelry, traditional garments, and beauty products.
The emirate of Sharjah offers an inviting combination of culture, heritage, art, and outdoor activities. Admire the rare artifacts at the Museum of Islamic Civilization, and visit the art area for a taste of traditional and contemporary art. A walk through the Heart of Sharjah will reward visitors with a glimpse into history, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy an exciting 4-wheel drive through the dunes before relaxing on the white beaches or snorkeling through the clear blue waters offshore.
Earning a title of 'Cultural Capital of the Arab World' by UNESCO in 1998, the city of Sharjah is best known for preserving its culture, tradition, and heritage. Its Art Museum is world-renowned while fascinating buildings in the Heritage Area are immersed with Emirati history.
Away from the glitz and glamour of Dubai, the city offers a plethora of entertainment and amusement options including well-maintained museums, beautiful mosques, Souks, and numerous parks. National History Museum and Desert Park is one such place where petting animals is the major highlight for kids and the Science Museum is packed with fun facts and exhibits.