Tourism in Sharjah

Sharjah is the third largest and third most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Along with Dubai it hosts numerous major tourist events and is home to significant and acknowledged museums on historical heritage, Islamic architecture. Apart from it Sharjah is known for traditional Arabian markets. The city is part of the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area and is located along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf.

History
Tourism in Sharjah began to develop in the late 20th century, with the UAE government investing heavily in infrastructure and cultural institutions. The city was declared the Cultural Capital of the Arab Region by UNESCO in 1998. Sharjah's tourist project are focused on traditional Arab and Islamic culture as opposed to the global culture broadly represented in neighbouring Dubai.

Tourist attractions
Sharjah is home to numerous museums and cultural sites. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization showcases thousands of Islamic artifacts from across the globe, while the Sharjah Art Museum is the largest art museum in the UAE, housing a vast collection of works from across the Arab region.

The city is also known for its traditional souks, such as the Blue Souk, which is known for its blue tile work and the sale of traditional items like carpets, gold, and handicrafts. The Heart of Sharjah, the largest historical preservation and restoration project in the region contains restored homes, markets, and cultural sites organized as a walk-by park.

The city boasts numerous public parks, including the Al Majaz Waterfront park, which hosts many events throughout the year. The Arabian Wildlife Center, located outside the city, showcases the biodiversity of the Arabian Peninsula.

Tourism infrastructure
Sharjah's tourism infrastructure has seen significant development in recent years. The city is serviced by the Sharjah International Airport and is also easily accessible from Dubai International Airport. Numerous hotels, ranging from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly options, cater to the needs of the city's visitors. A well-connected public transportation system, including taxis and buses, makes getting around the city convenient for tourists.

Sustainable tourism
In line with the UAE's sustainability goals, Sharjah has introduced ecotourism projects and initiatives to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre and Wasit Wetland Centre are part of Sharjah's participation on this initiative.

Sharjah Light Festival
The Sharjah Light Festival (SLF) is a light show that takes place annually in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The festival was first established in 2010 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and has since become an integral part of the city's cultural landscape