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Activities & Experiences

Activities & Experiences

The Northern Emirates, United Arab Emirates

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Sharjah's natural landscapes through various outdoor pursuits, from desert thrills to coastal calm.

Desert & Mountain Experiences

Dune Bashing

A thrilling off-road experience typically a part of a desert safari tour. Many tours include opportunities to spot desert wildlife like gazelles or Arabian oryx.

Sandboarding & Quad Biking

Available in desert camps, offering a personal adventure experience on the dunes.

Hiking & Trekking

Main hiking areas lie further east in the Hajar Mountains, near Khorfakkan and Kalba (part of Sharjah emirate). Wadi Shees offers easy to moderate trails.

Water Sports & Cycling

  • Al Khan Beach & Khorfakkan Beach: Offer jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and banana boat rides.
  • Diving and Snorkeling: Popular in Khorfakkan on the East Coast due to clearer waters and coral reefs.
  • Cycling: Recreational cycling flourishes along the Corniche and in larger parks.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails can be found in mountain areas like Khorfakkan or Hatta (a Dubai exclave, accessible from Sharjah).

Footwear

  • Comfortable closed-toe shoes (for desert)
  • Hiking boots (for trekking)
  • Water shoes (for water sports)
  • Additional sandals

Headwear & Clothing

  • Wide-brimmed hat
  • Scarf, sunglasses
  • Loose, breathable long sleeves/pants
  • Swimwear, quick-dry clothing

Protection & Hydration

  • Sunscreen, insect repellent
  • Aloe vera (for sunburn), lip balm
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Bottled water readily available

Important Note on Dune Bashing

This activity involves high-speed driving over sand dunes. It may not suit individuals with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women. Consult your tour operator for specific safety restrictions.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Sharjah's rich cultural heritage through various activities and events.

Workshops & Performances

  • Workshops: Cultural centers in Heart of Sharjah sometimes host sessions on local arts, crafts, music, or dance.
  • Cultural Performances: Keep an eye out for these, often during festivals like Sharjah Heritage Days.
  • Community Tourism: Supporting local businesses in souks and traditional eateries contributes directly to the local economy.
  • Language Learning: Many apps and online resources can assist with basic Arabic phrases.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Sharjah Light Festival

A major annual event in February, featuring spectacular light displays on prominent buildings.

Sharjah Heritage Days

Celebrates and showcases local traditions and arts, often with live performances and traditional crafts.

Official Calendars

Check official tourism calendars for dates and details of cultural events throughout the year.

Traditional Markets

Explore authentic souks for local goods and crafts.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans directly in souks for sustainable impact.

Customs Info

Inquire about shipping and customs regulations for purchases.

Relaxation & Wellness

Discover opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate in Sharjah through various wellness options.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Many luxury hotels in Sharjah provide extensive spa facilities.
  • They present a range of treatments from traditional Arabic massages to international therapies.
  • Consider visiting a hotel spa for a relaxing experience.
  • No natural hot springs are directly in Sharjah city.

Yoga & Beach Clubs

Yoga & Meditation

Dedicated yoga and meditation retreats do not have widespread advertising in Sharjah specifically, but some hotels or private studios may offer classes.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices form part of Emirati heritage; accessing them as a visitor might require local connections. Some spas may integrate traditional elements.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Many hotels, especially along the Corniche and Al Khan areas, feature beach clubs and extensive pool facilities. These create a relaxing environment.

Rejuvenation Tips

Morning Walks

Enjoy serene morning walks along Khalid Lagoon or the Corniche.

Museum Tranquility

Find peaceful moments within the quiet halls of specialized museums like the Calligraphy Museum.

Desert Stargazing

Opt for a desert safari that includes an overnight stay for quiet stargazing away from city lights.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Sharjah presents a different kind of nightlife experience, in alignment with its dry emirate status. Alcohol is not present.

Evening Entertainment

  • Al Majaz Waterfront: The musical fountain shows run late into the evening.
  • Shopping Malls: Malls remain open late, presenting opportunities for shopping, dining, and indoor entertainment.
  • Souks: Traditional souks, like the Central Souk, stay open late, offering a lively atmosphere for browsing and shopping.
  • Nightclubs and Bars: These venues do not exist in Sharjah due to the alcohol prohibition.

Cultural & Performance Venues

Live Music

Live music is generally limited, found mainly in hotel lounges or specific cultural events, rather than dedicated music venues.

Theater & Shows

The Sharjah National Theatre and Cultural Palace host various local and international theatrical productions, concerts, and cultural performances. Check their schedules.

Family Entertainment

Family-friendly entertainment options include amusement parks, water parks, and various events held in public spaces.

Art & Culture Nights

Attend art exhibitions or cultural performances that extend into the evening.

Photography Safaris

Desert safaris often extend into the evening, offering chances for sunset and night photography.

Dhow Cruises

Enjoy evening dhow cruises on Khalid Lagoon, featuring city views and entertainment.

Alcohol Policy Reminder

Sharjah maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol. Public intoxication or possession of alcohol is prohibited and carries severe penalties.

Shopping & Markets

Sharjah provides a diverse shopping experience, from traditional souks to modern malls, catering to every preference.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • Central Souk (Blue Souk): An iconic architectural landmark with gold, jewelry, carpets, and perfumes.
  • Souk Al Arsah: One of the oldest souks in the UAE, offering an authentic experience with antiques and traditional crafts.
  • Al Jubail Souq: A bustling market for fresh fish, meat, and produce.
  • Artisan Workshops: Explore smaller shops in the Heart of Sharjah for handcrafted items and pottery.

Souvenir Recommendations

Local Crafts

Consider Arabic coffee pots (dallah), incense burners (mabkhara), and hand-painted ceramics.

Traditional Textiles

Look for pashminas or traditional fabrics and garments.

Edible Delights

Purchase date-based sweets and premium dates, a fundamental part of Emirati hospitality.

Luxury Shopping

  • City Centre Sharjah
  • Sahara Centre
  • International brands
  • Department stores

Boutique Finds

  • Unique local boutiques
  • Specialty artisan shops
  • Handcrafted jewelry
  • Exclusive perfumes

Ethical Practices

  • Buy directly from artisans
  • Supports local livelihoods
  • Inquire about origin
  • Ensures ethical sourcing

Shipping & Customs Information

Shipping Larger Purchases
  • Inquire about shipping options directly from the vendor.
  • Use international courier services like DHL or FedEx.
  • Ensure items are packed securely for transit.
Customs Regulations
  • Be aware of customs regulations in your home country.
  • Note restrictions on certain items, like animal products.
  • Retain receipts for VAT refunds, if applicable (see section 16.3 for more information).

Souk Bargaining Tips

Bargaining is common in traditional souks; negotiate respectfully for a fair price. Start with an offer around half the initial asking price.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Activity Checklist

  • Hydration: Carry water, especially for outdoor adventures.
  • Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
  • Appropriate Attire: Wear loose, breathable clothing for comfort.
  • Footwear: Choose comfortable shoes suited for varied terrain.

Cultural Etiquette Reminders

  • Modest Dress: Observe modest dress, especially in religious sites and public areas.
  • Photography: Seek permission before photographing people.
  • Ramadan Respect: Abstain from public eating/drinking during fasting hours in Ramadan.
  • Right Hand: Use your right hand for greetings and handling food.