Hotels in Sharjah

Sharjah: The UAE's Cultural Capital on the Arabian Gulf

Sharjah sits 15 km north of Dubai along the Arabian Gulf coast and holds the distinction of being named UNESCO Creative City of Design in 2015 and Arab Capital of Culture in 1998. The emirate enforces a strict no-alcohol policy, setting it apart from its neighbours and drawing a different traveller profile — families, heritage seekers, and budget-conscious visitors who appreciate lower hotel rates than Dubai averages. The Heart of Sharjah restoration district preserves coral-stone souqs and wind-tower houses dating to the early 20th century, while the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization — housed in a restored covered souq on the Khalid Lagoon waterfront — displays 5,000 artefacts across eight galleries.

Where to Stay

Most hotels cluster around Al Majaz on Khalid Lagoon, Al Nahda near the Dubai border, and Al Khan on the Gulf shoreline. Al Majaz Waterfront offers a 2.4 km promenade with weekend fountain shows. Business travellers favour Al Nahda for its proximity to the Sharjah Expo Centre and fast road access to Dubai via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.

Practical Tips

• Getting around: Dubai Metro does not extend to Sharjah; shared taxis (service taxis) and app-based rides are the main options.
• Dress code: Conservative dress is enforced in public areas and souqs.
• Best time to visit: November to March, when temperatures stay between 18 °C and 28 °C.
• Currency: UAE Dirham (AED); 1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED as of 2025.