10 Free Things to Do in Sharjah that You Must Experience
Sharjah, regarded as the cultural capital of the UAE, provides a wide range of activities to entice the residents and tourists. The emirate boasts of traditional architectural designs and at the same time has modern architectural designs for its contemporary art galleries. The latter is especially noteworthy because in addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Sharjah offers a lot of Free Things to Do in Sharjah for tourists. Sharjah is an interesting and beautiful place for art lovers, history lovers, or nature lovers.
Sharjah is also the city that pays much attention to culture and arts among all the seven emirates of UAE. There are many museums, galleries and cultural institutions in the emirate and majority of them are Free Things to Do in Sharjah to the visitors. It enables the visitors to tour around the art world in Sharjah and also understand the history and religions of that region. Not only does it have to do with culture, but it also has beautiful shores, beautiful and quiet parks, and beautiful promenades for a pleasant stroll.
Apart from its cultural importance, it is also one of the places where individuals could travel at a low cost. The emirate is home to stunning mosques and souks, beautiful sandy beaches and calm islands, and there are countless things to do that are cheap or even free! If you are planning your Sharjah City Tour these free things to do and see will make your trip amazing and cheap at the same time.
Here is 10 Free Things to Do in Sharjah that You Must Experience
1. Sharjah Art Foundation
The Sharjah Art Foundation is one of the most popular arts attractions that tourists should not miss. This art gallery is situated in the central business district and has no admittance fees to its art exhibitions and displays. The foundation constantly exhibits works of local and global artists and the outdoor sculptures are quite mesmerizing. Stroll through the restored historical structures and the lush enclosed gardens to get a taste of contemporary art within historical structures. Also for the public, the foundation organizes film projections, art work-shops and cultural manifestations.
2. Visit the Al Noor Mosque
There are quite many beautiful mosques in Sharjah and Al Noor Mosque is one of them. Located on Khalid Lagoon, this mosque was inspired by the Ottoman architecture and tourists of other faiths can visit it and get a free tour. The guided tours which are conducted by tour guides give information on the Islamic culture, traditions and the features of the mosque. Just like the outside of the mosque, the inside is also beautifully designed with Arabic calligraphy and patterns that depict true Islamic architecture. It is recommended that people dress conservatively; women must cover their heads during the tour, and a headscarf can be borrowed at the site.
3. Take a walk at Al Majaz Waterfront
Al Majaz Waterfront is among the favorite attractions in Sharjah especially for families and anyone who loves nature. This well maintained park provides a vast area of green land ideal for holding picnics, playing games and taking a nap. The park is located on Khalid Lagoon and offers nice views of the Sharjah skyline especially in the evening. Strolling around the waterfront area does not cost any money and most of the attractions that are put up, including lighting shows and concerts are free. If one is looking for a relaxing experience, one can take a stroll or sit on one of the many benches provided along the lagoon.
4. Explore Sharjah Heritage Project
The Sharjah Heritage Area is a kind of an outdoor museum where one can observe the architectural appearance of the city and its inhabitants’ lifestyle. The area has places such as the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum and Al Hisn Fort where entry is free. When you are walking through the narrow lanes of the city, you will be transported back to medieval ages. It has old houses that represent Emirati architecture, live demonstrations and performances by craftsmen depending on the day you visit. The Heritage Area provides you with the best opportunity to learn as much as possible about the history of Sharjah and Emirati traditions.
5. Relax at Al Mamzar Beach Park
Even though there are paid services offered in Al Mamzar Beach Park, people can walk right down to the shores of the beach on weekdays for free. This less known paradise has white sand beaches ideal for swimming, sun bathing or any other beach activity. It has 5beaches and all the beaches in this park are clean and well maintained. Some places will need a little amount to park and amenities, but strolling along the beach and lying on the sand is free. That is why it is a perfect place to relax and watch the stunning views of Sharjah’s coastline without dealing with massive groups of tourists present on other beaches.
6. Stroll around the corniche in Al Buhaira
Corniche at Al Buhaira is a quiet promenade that borders the Khalid Lagoon with an amazing view of the city. It is a common jogging and walking area but one can simply sit and watch the skyline of Sharjah while doing nothing. The Corniche is adorned with palm trees and contains bench spaces which make it a perfect place for a romantic walk at night or a quiet moment by the sea. There are also great opportunities for taking photos along the trail, and particularly when the sky is orange and pink in the evening.
7. Visit the Blue Souk
The Blue Souk or also called the Central Souk is a famous market place in Sharjah. If you are not a shopper, then a visit to this architectural wonder is something that you should consider. The two storey building has been built with Islamic architecture with blue tiles, arching windows and detailed designing. Getting around the souk feels like time traveling as most of the merchants offer hand-made carpets, jewelry and antiques. It is a great place to do some people watching, and have a taste of the usual lively Emirati souk environment.
8. Visit the King Faisal Mosque
King Faisal Mosque is among the largest in UAE and a significant place of worship in Sharjah region. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mosque but the outside structure is very much worth a visit. The mosque is also an example of Islamic architecture with high minarets as well as large central dome. It has a large courtyard and gardens around it, which makes the area an excellent place for a walk or reflection. Nevertheless, the mosque appearance is marvelous during the night when the building is enlightened and gives a calm and lovely view.
9. Enjoy the Al Qasba Canal
The Al Qasba is a cultural and leisure area in Sharjah, with the Al Qasba Canal being the focal point. The canal itself is open to the public and during the warmer months and in the evening the area is filled with street performances, art installations, and cultural shows. You can walk along the water front and take time to appreciate the artistic works and installations that are along the promenade. The Ferris wheel that gives a bird’s eye view of the city is charged but the buoyant setting and the canal walk is without any charge.
10. Explore Al Noor Island
Al Noor Island is a park located in Sharjah which features nature, art and calmness. Some of the attractions to the island like the Butterfly House attract a fee, however, the pathways and other public areas of the island are free. You can also visit the well manicured gardens, appreciate the works of art and take a walk in the calmness of the island. The Art installations at the Al Noor Island are more visible at night, and taking a walk at night makes the environment serene for a stroll.
Conclusion
There are many things that one can do in Sharjah for Free Things to Do in Sharjah to make the most of the city’s cultural, art, and the natural attractions. From history and cultural heritage to beautiful waterfronts and strolls, here are 10 free things to do in Sharjah that offer a very special look at this place. These are the great places which will assist you to get the most out of your trip to Sharjah, regardless if you are a resident or a tourist, and they are all affordable.
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