Sharjah
The cultural capital: forts, museums, a book fair and a safari park.
Sharjah is the UAE's cultural emirate, with the restored old town, dozens of museums, an international book fair and a strong arts scene, all within an hour of Dubai. It is also the only emirate with territory on both coasts: inland at Mleiha and Al Dhaid, and on the Gulf of Oman at Khorfakkan and Khor Kalba. It is alcohol-free and slower paced than its neighbours.
Experiences in Sharjah
Events in Sharjah
Sharjah International Book Fair 2026 (45th)
The 45th Sharjah International Book Fair runs from 4 to 15 November 2026 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme “Made of Stories”, with Oman as guest of honour, more than 2,600 publishers and exhibitors from 124 countries and some 1,500 cultural events.
UAE National Day 2026 (55th)
The UAE marks its 55th National Day (Eid Al Etihad) on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December 2026, under the theme “Spirit of the Union”. The city programmes had not been published when this page was checked.
New Year's Eve in the UAE 2026
The 2026-27 New Year's Eve programmes had not been announced when this page was checked. Last year's pattern: Burj Khalifa and fireworks at 40+ sites in Dubai, a record-attempt show in Ras Al Khaimah and a drone-and-fireworks night at Sheikh Zayed Festival.
Ramadan 2027 and Eid Al Fitr
Astronomers expect Ramadan 2027 to begin in the UAE on Monday 8 February, with Eid Al Fitr falling on 9 or 10 March. The moon sighting decides the final dates, and the holiday length depends on whether Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days.
Eid Al Fitr 2027 holiday
Eid Al Fitr is expected on Tuesday 9 or Wednesday 10 March 2027 depending on whether Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days; the UAE announces the holiday after the moon sighting.
Sharjah: common questions
Can you drink alcohol in Sharjah?+
No. Sharjah is alcohol-free.
When is Sharjah Book Fair 2026?+
4 to 15 November 2026 at Expo Centre Sharjah.
Is Khorfakkan in Sharjah?+
Yes. It is an enclave of Sharjah on the Gulf of Oman coast.
Next door
Part of the UAE Experiences guide to Sharjah and its neighbours.
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