The Heart of Sharjah: forts, souks and museums

Sharjah is the emirate that has invested most in museums and heritage, and the old town has been restored street by street. The core is walkable: Al Hisn Fort, the old seat of the ruling family, now a museum; the Arts Square and galleries; traditional houses turned museums; and the old souk. Sharjah was named Arab Capital of Culture in 1998 and has leaned into that ever since.

The Central Souk, known as the Blue Souk for its tiled facades, is an easy stop for textiles, gifts and gold, and is lit beautifully at night. The Al Majaz and Al Qasba waterfronts, a short drive away, add fountains, canals and restaurants, and are best in the evening in winter.

Sharjah is alcohol-free, and dress should be modest in public areas. Some museums have different opening days and hours from those in neighbouring emirates, so check each before you set off. Traffic between Dubai and Sharjah is heavy in rush hours, in both directions. The Sharjah International Book Fair, 4 to 15 November 2026, makes November the busiest month.

Start in the morning at Al Hisn Fort and the Arts Square while the lanes are quiet, then walk to the traditional houses and museums that interest you most; two or three is plenty. Have lunch in the old town, rest through the hottest hours in a museum, and take the afternoon at the Blue Souk before driving to Al Majaz Waterfront for the fountains after sunset.

A guided walk of the old town is worth considering on a first visit: the restored lanes have many small stories that a map does not tell. Check museum opening days when you plan, since they can differ from other emirates.