Although Sharjah is decidedly less glamorous than its cousin Dubai, it is the third largest of the seven emirates and the cultural and historical capital of the region. It thus offers a decidedly more authentic Arabic experience. Visitors can enjoy a holiday in the sun while discovering the customs and traditions of Sharjah’s traditional markets (souks), numerous heritage sites and museums and majestic mosques, not to mention the natural beauty of the Arabian deserts, lagoons, mountains and beaches.

One of the most thrilling activities in the area is desert driving. We know this is about as far away from cruising in your boat as you can get, but it is an experience you just can’t miss! There are numerous sand driving areas in and around the city and a myriad of different tour operators to choose from; the Fossil Rock tour is one of the most popular. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a gentler ride, hop on a camel and trek off into the sunset.

The city of Sharjah has a beautiful coastline of crystal clear waters and some of the best beaches including Al Khan Lagoon, Al Khan Beach, Corniche Beach, Hamriyah Lagoon and Khorfakkan. Just be sure to respect the dress restriction when bathing! Diving is also a popular activity as the waters around the coast are alive with coral reefs, turtles, sharks and moray eels.

Like Dubai, Sharjah is also home to some beautiful waterways and lagoons. You can tour the Al Khan and Khalid Lagoons in an Abra (ferries) and enjoy panoramic views of walkways, bridges, skyscrapers and heritage sites. What’s more, the city has been hosting the finals of the International Formula 1 Powerboat Championship since 2000.

Although Dubai may be the region’s shopping capital, Sharjah is also famous for its lively souqs (markets), situated on and behind the famous Corniche Road. The Blue Souq (appropriately named because of its blue vaulted roof) is best for gold and stone studded jewellery, and carpets while the Souq Al Arsah is hotly-tipped for its authentic antiques, handicrafts and souvenirs.

Among the numerous cultural attractions, the local history museum, Al Hisn, is a must-do, housed in a beautiful old fort along with the Sharjah Ar Museum, which has one of the best collections of Islamic art.

Accommodation options include Lou’ Lou’a Beach Resort, directly overlooking the clear blue waters of the Arabian Gulf, or the Al Bustan Tower Hotel Suites, a deluxe hotel apartment conveniently located in the heart of the city with close proximity to major shopping malls, gold souks and Sharjah’s heritage areas.

A visit to Sharjah isn’t complete without a ride on the “Eye of the Emirates”, a giant 60-metre tall Ferris Wheel that offers an aerial view of Sharjah’s cornice, lagoons and landscape as well as the horizon of neighbouring Dubai.

Best time to visit: November to April is the best season to visit the region, when the climate is pleasant with warm sunny days and cool evenings

Useful links:

www.loulouabeach.com/resortwww.albustangroup.com/home4.htm

Images sourced from:

www.destination360.com

www.picasaweb.google.com

www.travelnmore.ae