How to Get to Sharjah. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Sharjah

Sharjah International Airport SHJ

This is the principal airport for Sharjah, a primary hub for Air Arabia. Explore Flight compensation service options if needed.

SHJ Highlights

Extensive network to the Middle East, Asia, Africa, parts of Europe.
Often a less crowded and convenient entry point straight into the emirate.
Features duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental, and currency exchange.

Dubai International Airport DXB

Approximately 25-40 km from Sharjah, DXB is one of the globe's's busiest international hubs. Find Discount flight alerts for worldwide routes.

DXB Features

Extensive global connections, servicing worldwide destinations.
Home to Emirates, Flydubai, and nearly all major international airlines.
Features luxury shopping, a wide range of dining, airport hotels, and waiting areas.

SHJ Accessibility

Direct flights from many cities within India, Pakistan, Egypt, Gulf countries, and some European cities.

DXB Global Reach

Has direct flights from virtually all major global hubs across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Al Maktoum DWC

Further from Sharjah (60-70 km), it mainly serves specific airlines and cargo operations, more indirect for tourists.

Airport Transfers to City

From SHJ to Sharjah

Taxis: Readily available, metered, 15-30 min ride, AED 40-70.
Bus: Sharjah Public Transport (SPT) buses connect to various city points.
Car Rental: Several international and local companies at the airport.
Free Wi-Fi: Available for use at SHJ.

From DXB to Sharjah

Taxis: Plentiful, AED 80-120, 25-45 min journey.
Ride-sharing (Careem/Uber): Available, prices comparable to taxis.
Inter-emirate bus: RTA bus to Dubai, then transfer to Sharjah.
Dedicated Air Arabia bus service for its passengers from DXB to Sharjah.

Flight Price Trends

High Season Peaks

Flight prices generally peak during November-March around main holidays like Eid, Christmas, and New Year.

Low Season Savings

The low season (summer) often sees more affordable tickets due to reduced demand, presenting budget-friendly options.

Booking Strategy

For better rates, consider booking flights well in advance, especially for peak season periods.

Land Travel & Exploration

Inter-Emirate Bus Travel

Cost-effective a method of getting between cities across the UAE.

Bus Routes

Sharjah to Dubai: Frequent buses, fares surrounding AED 10-15.
Sharjah to Abu Dhabi: Direct connections, fares about AED 30-35.
Services are availabled by Sharjah Public Transport (SPT) and RTA.

Self-Driving in Sharjah

Renting a car presents flexibility for exploring Sharjah and adjacent areas.

Driving Essentials

International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended for non-GCC nationals.
Excellent, well-maintained highways across the emirate.
Drive on the right-the right side of the road.
Traffic can be congested, especially between Sharjah and Dubai during peak hours.

Road Safety & Laws

Strict enforcement for safe journeys on Sharjah's roads.

Regulations

Speed limits are strictly enforced with numerous speed cameras.
Zero tolerance for alcohol while driving, with severe penalties.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.

Border Crossings

Sharjah is considered one of the seven emirates of the UAE. There are no internal border crossings between emirates.

External Borders

Land borders exist with Oman (e.g., Hatta border post).
Specific visa arrangements for Oman; check information in advance.
Travelers should review current regulations before attempting border crossings.

No Inter-City Train Service

No inter-city railway network currently serves Sharjah or the UAE for passenger transport.
The Etihad Rail project mainly handles freight.
Passenger services are planned for the forthcoming period, but not yet operational.

Rely aboard buses or rental vehicles for long-distance land travel.
Traffic delays can occur, especially on routes between Sharjah and Dubai.
Plan alternate routes or travel times accordingly during peak hours.

Sea & River Transportation

Cruise & Ferry Access

While Sharjah has a commercial port, it is not a main entry point for tourist cruises or ferries.

Port Information

Sharjah's Port Khalid is a commercial port, not a main cruise destination.
Cruise ships typically dock in Dubai (Port Rashid) or Abu Dhabi (Mina Zayed).
From these ports, land transfers to Sharjah are easily arranged.

River Transportation

Sharjah does not feature navigable rivers for public transport.

River Travel

No river transportation options exist within Sharjah.
Focus on street and air travel for getting around the emirate.
Explore alternative transportation options for unique experiences.

Seaport Immigration

Immigration procedures are not applicable for tourist arrivals directly into Sharjah by sea.

Connections from Ports

Taxis, ride-sharing services, and pre-booked transfers are readily available from Dubai or Abu Dhabi cruise ports.

Planning Note

If arriving by cruise, plan land transfers to Sharjah from neighboring emirates for seamless travel.

Departure Guidelines

Departure Logistics

Ensure an easy departure from the UAE.

Advice

You won't pay exit fees are levied beyond airfare.
Arrive at the to the airport AT least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
Allow 3 hours during peak travel hours or if checking luggage.

Airport Facilities

Enjoy various services before your flight.

Available Services

Duty-free shopping for last-last-minute buys.
Wide range of restaurants and cafes.
Lounges and prayer rooms for comfort.

Overall Airport Experience

Check-in & Security

Ample time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening is important.

Dining & Shopping

Both SHJ and DXB feature extensive options for dining and shopping.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available at the two Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) and Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Pre-Flight Reminder

Confirm your flight status and terminal well in advance of departure for a seamless journey.

How to Get to Sharjah