Exploring Sharjah, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor Dubai, has been quietly transforming into a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history and a growing list of attractions. My wife, Rattry, and I have been exploring Sharjah’s new and emerging attractions, and we’ve been pleasantly surprised by what this emirate has to offer. From cultural experiences to modern leisure activities, Sharjah has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the new attractions in Sharjah that are worth checking out.
1. Sharjah Mosque
One of the largest mosques in the UAE, the Sharjah Mosque is a magnificent addition to the emirate’s skyline. Opened in 2019, this architectural marvel is not just a place of worship but also a cultural and educational center.
Our Experience: We visited the mosque on a Friday morning, and the experience was both spiritual and visually stunning. The mosque’s design is inspired by Ottoman architecture, with intricate calligraphy, massive chandeliers, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Rattry was particularly moved by the serene atmosphere inside the prayer halls.
Travel Tip: The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors at specific times, and guided tours are available. Make sure to dress modestly and follow the mosque’s etiquette during your visit.
2. Al Noor Island
Al Noor Island is a blend of nature, art, and architecture, offering a unique experience right in the heart of Sharjah. This tranquil oasis is known for its butterfly house, art installations, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Our Experience: We spent a peaceful afternoon on Al Noor Island, exploring its various attractions. The butterfly house was a highlight for us, especially for Rattry, who enjoyed the chance to interact with these delicate creatures. The island’s art installations added a touch of creativity to the experience, making it a perfect spot for leisurely walks and quiet reflection.
Travel Tip: Al Noor Island is ideal for a relaxing day out. Visit during the cooler hours to fully enjoy the outdoor spaces, and don’t forget your camera to capture the island’s natural beauty.
3. Sharjah Aquarium Expansion
The Sharjah Aquarium, a long-time favorite, has recently undergone an expansion, making it bigger and better than ever. The aquarium now features new exhibits, interactive displays, and a focus on marine conservation.
Our Experience: As fans of marine life, we were excited to see the new additions to the Sharjah Aquarium. The expanded exhibits include a wider variety of species and more immersive experiences. The interactive touch pools were a hit with both of us, allowing us to get up close and personal with some of the sea creatures.
Travel Tip: The aquarium is a great place to visit with family or friends. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the exhibits and learning about marine life in the Arabian Gulf.
4. House of Wisdom
The House of Wisdom is a state-of-the-art library and cultural center that has quickly become one of Sharjah’s most iconic new attractions. This modern space is designed to be a place of learning, creativity, and community engagement.
Our Experience: As avid readers and learners, we were eager to explore the House of Wisdom. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, with large open spaces, natural light, and a vast collection of books in multiple languages. Rattry and I spent a few hours browsing the collections, attending a workshop, and enjoying a coffee at the in-house café.
Travel Tip: The House of Wisdom is more than just a library—it’s a cultural experience. Check out their schedule of events and workshops before you visit, and make time to explore the outdoor gardens and art installations.
5. Sharjah Safari Park
A relatively new addition to Sharjah’s list of attractions, the Sharjah Safari Park offers a unique experience of wildlife in a carefully curated natural environment. The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including some rare and endangered species.
Our Experience: The ticket cost 60 AED for both of us. Our visit to the Sharjah Safari Park was nothing short of amazing. The park is well laid out, with different zones representing various ecosystems. We took a guided tour that allowed us to see the animals up close and learn about the park’s conservation efforts. Rattry was thrilled to see some of her favorite animals in such a natural setting.
Travel Tip: The park is best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Guided tours are highly recommended, as they provide deeper insights into the park and its inhabitants.
6. Khorfakkan Amphitheatre
Khorfakkan, a coastal town in Sharjah, has recently gained attention for its stunning new amphitheater. Built into the mountains overlooking the sea, the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre is a venue for cultural performances, concerts, and film screenings.
Our Experience: We attended an evening performance at the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre and were blown away by the setting. The combination of the dramatic mountain backdrop, the open-air design, and the cultural performance made for a magical evening. The amphitheater’s design is inspired by Roman architecture, adding a historical touch to the modern venue.
Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Khorfakkan, check the schedule for upcoming events at the amphitheater. The drive from Sharjah is scenic, and you can combine the trip with a visit to the nearby beach or waterfalls.
7. Sharjah Art Foundation’s Rain Room
The Rain Room is an innovative art installation that has become one of Sharjah’s most talked-about attractions. This immersive experience allows visitors to walk through a rainstorm without getting wet, thanks to advanced sensor technology.
Our Experience: It costs 50 AED for both of us. Walking through the Rain Room was an experience like no other. The sensation of being surrounded by rain but staying completely dry was surreal and exciting. Rattry was initially hesitant, but once inside, she loved the experience and couldn’t stop smiling. It was a playful and artistic moment that we both enjoyed.
Travel Tip: The Rain Room is a must-visit for art lovers and anyone looking for a unique experience. It’s best to book tickets in advance, as the attraction is very popular and can get crowded.
8. Sharjah Desert Park’s New Exhibits
Sharjah Desert Park has long been a favorite destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The park has recently added new exhibits and interactive displays that focus on desert ecosystems and wildlife.
Our Experience: We’ve always enjoyed visiting Sharjah Desert Park, and the new exhibits made our latest trip even more interesting. The interactive displays provided a hands-on learning experience about the desert environment and its inhabitants. Rattry found the exhibits on desert plants particularly fascinating, as they showcased the resilience and adaptability of life in the harsh desert climate.
Travel Tip: The park is a great place to learn about the desert ecosystem, especially if you have kids. The new exhibits are engaging and educational, making it a fun and informative outing.
Traveling from Sharjah
Living in Sharjah, we appreciate the convenience of exploring these attractions within our own emirate. Most of the new attractions are easily accessible by car, with many located within a short drive from central Sharjah. Public transportation options like buses and taxis are also available, making it easy for residents and tourists alike to explore the city.
For instance, the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre is a scenic drive away, perfect for a weekend getaway, while the House of Wisdom and Al Noor Island are centrally located and can be reached within minutes. We found that planning our trips during off-peak hours made the journeys quicker and more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Sharjah is rapidly becoming a cultural and leisure destination in its own right, with a host of new attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. From cultural landmarks like the House of Wisdom and Al Noor Island to unique experiences like the Rain Room and Sharjah Safari Park, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Sharjah’s new attractions offer a fresh perspective on this often-overlooked emirate. We’ve enjoyed exploring these new additions, and we’re excited to see what Sharjah has in store for the future.
