Flaunting the glorious history and related artefacts of Islamic culture and civilization, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is a touristic landmark nestled in the heart of Sharjah. From stunning artefacts and manuscripts to interactive displays spanning from the early Islamic era to the present day, the museum’s meticulously curated exhibits provide profound insight into the region’s history and culture. Officially inaugurated on 6th June 2008, the museum has opened its door for visitors to come and delve into the vibrant tapestry of Islamic heritage. Embark on a visually immersive exploration of the Islamic Museum in Sharjah and its impressive galleries and other treasures.
Islamic Museum In Sharjah- Museum Of Islamic Civilization
Perched at the shore of the Sharjah Creek, the Museum of Islamic Civilization is one of the most-visited museums, exhibiting over 5000 Islamic artefacts from the Islamic World. Renowned as the first Islamic Museum in Sharjah, the museum showcases works such as discoveries and craftsmanship of manifold Islamic scholars from different sectors. The museum attracts locals and tourists alike to delve into and learn about the rituals, textiles, handicrafts, and other aspects of Islamic culture. Split into four main galleries and showcasing its ancient charms that enchant with historical tales, the Sharjah Museum is a significant structure that every visitor should include in their itinerary.
History Of Sharjah Museum
The Museum Of Islamic Civilisation, situated along the Al-Majarrah Waterfront, is a significant landmark that draws tourists and visitors to indulge in a glimpse of the region’s culture. It had its grand opening on November 6, 1996, with the name of the Islamic Museum Sharjah. Later, this museum was converted into the classic Souq Al Majarrah due to the mutual decision of the ruler of Sharjah, his highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi (Supreme Council Member) and re-opened in 1987 as a souq. Furthermore, it was again re-opened for visitors in its present form on 6th June 2008, under the name ‘Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization’. As the name suggests, the place offers a glimpse of Islamic culture, as well as its major accomplishments inviting visitors to explore the profound origins of Islamic and Arab culture.
Galleries Of Sharjah Museum Of Islamic Civilization
Displaying more than 5,000 pieces of Islamic art and culture arranged chronologically across seven galleries, the museum houses remarkable collections that capture the attention of history buffs and curious minds. Take a visual tour of these spectacular seven galleries that offer visitors a great, jovial experience to learn about Islamic history and discoveries.
1. The Abu Bakr Gallery Of Islamic Faith
Featuring the principles of Islam and the holy book Qur’an, the Abu Bakr Gallery of Islamic Fath is dedicated to introducing the foundation of the Islamic faith through the five pillars of Islam, as well as the ritual of Hajj and Umrah. This gallery also houses rare historical Quran manuscripts, charts, photographs, presentations, images of mosques, their architectural designs, and model figures. Apart from this, you can also witness anthropomorphic portions of the Ka’aba, original pieces of the Ka’aba’s honorific garments, the “Kiswah.”
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2. The lbn Al- Haytham Gallery of Science and Technology
Flaunting the Islamic scientific achievements and contributions made by great Muslim scholars, this impressive science gallery exhibits numerous audiovisuals, information panel charts, 3D models, discoveries and theories related to various fields. You can find outstanding inventions and discoveries made in astronomy, military technology, marine navigation, medicine, architecture, engineering, and mathematics, enriching world civilization.
3. Islamic Art Gallery 1
Islamic Art Gallery 1 showcases the artefacts dating back from the first to the seventh centuries AH or 7th to the 13th century AD. It includes a vast collection of textiles, pottery, manuscripts, woodcarving, and metalwork. During that early era, Islamic civilization and culture spread from the Arabian Peninsula to the borders of China in the east and the Atlantic in the west. As a result, a distinctive cultural blend made up of elements of Persian and ancient Hellenistic culture as well as the religious value of the newly powerful Islamic state emerged. With time, a new design aesthetic evolved that combined geometric and floral embellishments with the Arab-Islamic style.
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4. Islamic Art Gallery 2
Showcasing the significant Islamic artefacts such as the 13th-century Mongol invasion of the eastern Islamic world and a chosen assortment that portrays the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal civilizations, the gallery is packed with marvellous accomplishments that witnessed a remarkable global trade and economic growth between different communities during the 7th – 13th centuries AH or 12th to 19th centuries AD.
5. Islamic Art Galleries 3-4
The 3rd and 4th Islamic Art Galleries are loaded with numerous arts and crafts pieces as well as weapons of Islamic civilization. The artefacts date back to the 13th, 14th, 19th, and 20th centuries and are perfect examples of how European ideas influenced Islamic customs and standards during these times.
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6. The Al Majarrah Temporary Exhibition Gallery
The Al Majarrah Temporary Exhibition Gallery also features artworks related to Islamic civilization and hosts special international exhibitions twice a year.
Location, Timings And Entry Fees Of Sharjah Islamic Museum
Location: Corniche Street, Al Majarrah area
Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 08:00 am – 08:00 pm, Friday: 04:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Entry Fee: AED. 10 for Adults & AED. 5 for Children
Other Highlights Of Sharjah Museum Of Islamic Civilization
Image Source: Saloni Sakhardande for Wikimedia Commons
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- Islamic Coins
Explore an extensive collection of Islamic coins from the early period exhibited in the Islamic Museum in Sharjah. At the atrium outside the Al Majarrah Gallery, observe the shape, designs and structure of a diverse selection of Islamic coins including Ummayads, Abbasid, dinar and dirhams.
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- The Lion or Lynx Censer
Holding great significance in Islam, you can witness numerous bronze incense censers in the shape of feline animals exhibited at the museum. Each symbolizes the customs of Khorasan, Eastern Iran, and the periods from the fifth to the twelfth centuries.
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- Mosaic Dome
The Islamic Museum in Sharjah also features a Central Golden Dome embellished with a marvellous mosaic which illustrates different zodiac signs. The view of the dome is marvellous and known for leaving the visitors mesmerised.
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- The Sitara
Explore an opulent reproduction of the Kiswah curtain of the Ka’aba, adorned with intricate silk and gold embroidery, emphasizing the grandeur and sacredness of this revered site within the museum. Recognized as the Sitara, also known as “Al Burda” or “Al Burqu’a,” this intricate masterpiece was meticulously woven under the sponsorship of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and has found its abode within the museum, specifying its historical significance.
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- Astrolabes
Within the museum’s collection lies ancient astrolabes, a historical astronomical apparatus. Originating from the ingenuity of Muslim scientists, these prototypes, rooted in Hellenistic traditions, served as tools for star navigation, latitude measurement, and time determination.
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- Copper And Silver-Inlaid Neo-Mamluk Stand
Inspired by the design of Al Nasir Muhammad Qalawun in the early 1400s, this stunning stand was built during the 19th century. It is one of the key highlights of the Islamic museum in Sharjah, capturing the attention of visitors with its awestruck views.
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Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is an iconic landmark situated in the heart of Sharjah and provides a remarkable experience to delve into the art and culture of Islamic Civilization. Flaunting the manifold of artefacts related to Islamic heritage and collected from all over the world, this Islamic museum in Sharjah is a must visit place to include to your itinerary during your trip to UAE.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Islamic Museum In Sharjah
What is special about the Sharjah Museum?
Split into seven galleries spanning over two floors, the Islamic Museum in Sharjah unveils the foundation, principles and aspects of Islamic faith and culture. These galleries also showcase the achievements and discoveries made by Islamic scholars in different fields.
Is there an entry fee for the Sharjah Museum?
Yes, you have to pay an entry fee to visit the Sharjah Museum. The entry fee for children aged 2-12 years is AED 5 and for adults, the fee is AED 10. On some special occasions such as Ramadan, Eid-Al Fitr, Dhul Hijjah and Eid Al Adha, the entry fee for the museum is free.
Why is Sharjah famous?
Sharing its border with every other emirate of the UAE, Sharjah is renowned as the cultural capital of the UAE. Capturing the attention of locals and tourists with its marvellous collection of well-preserved artefacts from the Islamic culture and civilization, Sharjah is the third most populated emirate known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
When was the Sharjah Museum built?
The Museum Of Islamic Civilisation, situated along the Al-Majarrah Waterfront, is a significant landmark that draws tourists and visitors to indulge in a glimpse of the region’s culture. The museum was first introduced on 6th November 1996. However, it went under reconstruction and re-opened in its present form on 6th June 2008.
How many museums are there in Sharjah?
Known for its Islamic art and culture charm, Sharjah Boasts 16 museums that exhibit a wide range of subjects, such as Islamic culture, science, marine life, archaeology, heritage, and the region’s history. Some of the most famous museums are the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, Sharjah Arts Museum, Sharjah Science Museum, and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.
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