Step into the cultural heart of the United Arab Emirates- Sharjah. It is a city embellished with museums, serving as genuine repositories of the past. The museums in Sharjah are like living testament to the rich layers of the city’s history, woven together narratives of culture, heritage, and art. As you enter into the historical masterpieces, you travel back to time. It feels as if each museum serves as a portal into the interesting narratives of the city. While travelling to Dubai, you may not wish to overlook the finest museums of Sharjah as you may have mesmerising experiences here, like nowhere else.
13 Magnificent Museums In Sharjah You Can Visit
To make your trip to Dubai more exciting and informative, do not miss visiting the best museums in Sharjah. While participating in multiple activities, both adults and kids may learn the glorious history of the city. Hence, your vacation can be more memorable. So, delve into the top museums of Sharjah below:-
1. Sharjah Art Museum
Art lovers can have the best time at the Sharjah Art Museum. From admiring whimsical artworks of renowned artists to participating in workshops and programmes, one can enjoy a lot here. Travellers from around the world visit the Sharjah Art Museum, one of the interactive museums in Sharjah. Explore the silent magnificence of mediums and techniques that will spark your imagination and creativity. The museum holds a variety of art events and exhibitions, captivating people globally. In fact, one can view over four thousand titles in various languages, including Arabic and English.
Location: Al Shuwaiheen, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: 8:00 am To 8:00 pm, Confirm Timings Of Friday
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2. Sharjah Museum Of Islamic Civilization
If you are a history lover, do not miss visiting the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. It displays thousands of unique artefacts that highlight the great Islamic civilization from the first century. Also, the inventions of Muslim scholars through ancient history can be explored thoroughly with interest and excitement. The collection of Islamic arts from distinct parts of the world are showcased here as per the periods in six different galleries. Travellers can delve into the magnificent Islamic history, art, culture, sciences, and Islamic discoveries. Above all, travellers who are willing to know the glorious past of Islam must pay a visit to the finest Islamic Museum in Sharjah.
Location: Al Majarra, Al Sharq, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: 8:00 am To 8:00 pm, Confirm the timings of Friday
3. Sharjah Archaeology Museum
Sharjah Archaeology Museum is the first museum in Sharjah. It stands as the guardian of the city’s heritage and offers a window to the visitors into the rich history. In fact, the museum features a vast number of archaeological treasures that were discovered in Sharjah from the beginning of the excavations in 1973 until now. Visitors who are eager to learn about the civilizations that developed in the city from the Stone Age up until the present must visit this historic museum. From coins and jewellery to ancient weapons, all are showcased to the public. As one of the iconic museums in Sharjah, it serves as an enlightening place. Hence, it bridges the gap between mysteries of antiquity and modernity.
Location: Al Abar area between the Halwan Children Center and the Sharjah Archeology Authority
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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4. Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum
Enjoy your journey into the wonders of the natural world at one of the famous museums in Sharjah, Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Garden. With a perfect blend of fascination and education, the museum offers a wholesome exploration of the flora and fauna of the city. Visitors can explore the rich biodiversity of the city in the museum and have a breathtaking experience. There are echoes of environmental awareness and conservation, making one understand the importance and the need of preserving nature. By immersing oneself into the allure of the environment, visitors may have a great and memorable time in the museum.
Location: Sharjah Desert Park, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 9 am- 6:30 pm, Saturday & Sunday: 11 am- 6:30 pm, Closed on Tuesday
5. Sharjah Science Museum
Exploring science has never been this much fun! Step into the Science Museum in Sharjah and have a wholesome experience in a secure, educational & enjoyable environment. The museum holds something for everyone. Hence, it is the most-visited historical place in the world. One can engage in exciting and engaging scientific experiments. The Sharjah Science Museum induces curiosity among visitors, making complex scientific ideas and concepts more fun. From astronomy to physics, through immersive installations and educational demonstrations, one can learn various things and have a great time here.
Location: Al Abar – Halwan Suburb, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm. – 8:00 pm
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6. Sharjah Calligraphy Museum
First opened its doors in 2002, the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum stands as one of the finest museums in Sharjah. Embark on the voyage into the realm of splendour and creativity at the museum and discover the evolution of Arabic calligraphy over the centuries. Enjoy the artworks meticulously created by artists with stunning calligraphy shapes, texts & letters, paintings, and more. Understand the essence, meanings, and valuable historical background of artworks to connect with the rich past of the city.
Location: Calligraphy Square, Al Shiokh, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
7. Sharjah Classic Cars Museum
An ideal destination for classic car enthusiasts, Sharjah Classic Cars Museum showcases more than a hundred classic colours manufactured in the early twentieth century. From a Model T Ford to a 1974 MG Midget, the museum displays mind-blowing cars. During your visit, do not miss the 1969 Mercedes Pullman Limousine, a personalised car made for Sharjah’s ruler and one of only two thousand in the world. This is one of the famous museums in Sharjah as the classic cars have been preserved and buffed until you can see your reflection. Kids too may love to spend time in the museum as there is an interactive area with puzzles and a driving simulator.
Location: Next to Sharjah International Airport, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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8. Sharjah Maritime Museum
Located along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, Sharjah Maritime Museum is one of the most interesting museums in Sharjah. Explore the city’s fascinating marine history and delve into the traditions & customs of the city’s inhabitants, whose lives were strongly influenced by the sea. The museum invites visitors globally on a journey through time, discovering the crucial role of the sea in shaping the identity of Sharjah and the development of coastal cities. The exhibits of Sharjah Maritime Museum include traditional wooden dhows and ancient seafaring tools. Visitors may enjoy the allure of the authentic Arabian pearls, collected by the ancestors from the deep water of the Gulf, possessing the same lustre and glamour today as they did when first harvested. One can also visit the Sharjah Aquarium and witness marine life from the Arabian Gulf and beyond.
Location: Al Khan, Adjacent to Sharjah Aquarium
Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
9. Al Mahatta Museum
Image Credit: Alan Wilson for Wikipedia
A cultural gem preserving the aviation heritage of Sharjah is popular among visitors worldwide. The Al Mahatta Museum offers a breathtaking journey into the initial times of aviation in the Arabian Peninsula. Built in the early twentieth century, the museum showcases the history of flight in the city, with unique collectables highlighting the showman’s first attempts. If one is in Dubai, the aviation museum is one of the many must-visit museums in Sharjah for a great experience.
Location: Al Mahatta Area, Opposite Al Qasimia District
Timings: 08:00 am – 08:00 pm
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10. Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi
Step into this prominent cultural landmark and witness the bygone era of the UAE. One may go on a thrilling journey to the past and explore the ancestors’ profound culture and civilization. Built in the late nineteenth century, the historic masterpiece was once the home of the prominent Naboodah family, renowned for their contributions to trade and commerce. Bait Al Naboodah stands as a testament to traditional Emirati architectural style. Located along the beach, the tranquil coast with its beautiful & sandy beaches, majestic mountains, vast green plains, and lush gardens, all add to the radiant aura of this museum. It is one of the famous museums in Sharjah as it carries a significant number of collections embodying the UAE heritage.
Location: Near Kalba Fort, East Coast of the Arabian Gulf
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
11. Al Eslah School Museum
One looking for the best place to relive the old school experiences in UAE can pay a visit to this historic museum, dating from the mid-twentieth century. Al Eslah School Museum is considered to be the first formal school in the heart of Sharjah. Here, one can dive into the roots of the UAE educational system by sitting at wooden desks, examining the pictures of former students, and admiring the magnificence of the Holy Quran stands made from palm fronds. One looking for museums in Sharjah that awaken the school time memories must pay a visit to this fantastic place.
Location: Opposite Bait Al Naboodah Museum, Next to Al Arsah Souq
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
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12. Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn)
Step into the historic landmark and experience the rich heritage of UAE. By exploring the fort, one may delve into the history and learn about a multitude of ideas. Some of these include the first jurisdiction system adopted in the city in Al Muhalwasa jail and the procedure to make ‘dibs’ or date syrup in the past. As one of the fascinating museums in Sharjah, it has the power to take visitors back into history by showcasing the weapons and defence strategies used by ancestors. Many people are unaware of the fact that Al Hisn was built for defensive reasons, mainly to protect Sharjah and its residents. Additionally, it was the headquarters of the Sharjah government, the fact still remains unknown to many.
Location: Al Shuwaiheen – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
13. Bait Al Naboodah
Are you looking for a museum to engage in the rich heritage of the city and Emirati culture? Then, visit Bait Al Naboodah. From delving into the deep-rooted Emirati customs and traditions to learning about the lifestyle of ancestors, one may have a wholesome experience. You can learn about ancestral rituals, celebrations, marriage ceremonies, and other events. It may give you a sense of how times have significantly changed from classicism to modern times.
Location: Bait Saeed Al Taweel Shamsi, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Timings: Saturday To Thursday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm, Friday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 am
Further Read: Resorts In United Arab Emirates
Museums in Sharjah stand as historical gems as these offer a great journey through the city’s radiant past. Each museum discloses the rich layers of culture and heritage. Hence, it creates a memorable experience for visitors and history enthusiasts alike. While travelling to the UAE, do not overlook these fascinating living chronicles. Plan your trip to Dubai and fully immerse yourself in the intriguing narratives that galvanise Sharjah’s cultural legacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Museums in Sharjah
What is Sharjah best known for?
Sharjah is a popular city in UAE, as it is the country’s cultural centre and is home to well-preserved ancient structures. UNESCO has named Sharjah as the Arab Capital of Culture because of the region’s famed riches.
What is the history of Sharjah city?
Historically, Sharjah was one of the richest towns with a settlement in existence for over 5000 years. In the early eighteenth century, the Huwayla tribe of the Qawasim clan established itself in the city, declaring Sharjah independent.
What is the famous place in Sharjah?
Sharjah is home to well-known places, including Al Noor Island, Sharjah Aquarium and Blue Souk. The top sightseeing spots are Sharjah Desert Park and Al Qasba. There are the finest museums in Sharjah, such as Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Heritage Museum, and Sharjah Classic Cars Museum.
Is there an entry fee for the Sharjah Museum?
The entry fees of the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization vary with age. There is no entry fee for children under the age of two. Children between two to twelve years have an entry fee of 5.00 AED. However, people of more than 13 years of age have to pay 10.00 AED. To stay updated, it is advisable to check the official website of the museum before visiting.
How many days are enough for Sharjah?
For a comprehensive Sharjah experience, you can plan a three to four-day stay. From exploring museums and cultural sites to engaging in leisure activities, you can have a great experience.
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