Top 10 Street Markets in Sharjah You Can’t Miss

Sharjah is known as the cultural city of the UAE and it is a remarkable example of the modern city combined with traditions. Although famous for its history, art and architecture, it is also famous for some of the most colourful street markets in the region. These busy souqs and markets are interesting to visit in order to get an idea about the traditional way of living of the Emirati people and at the same time they offer an extensive choice of spices, textiles, jewelries and other souvenirs. Newcomers and experienced shoppers will surely find that the street markets in Sharjah are a great way to get to know the city and its traditions.

In case you are planning for a Sharjah City Tour, then shopping at the local markets is a must do. The Blue Souq with its beautiful architecture and product range from jewelry to carpets and the more conventional Al Arsah Souq offers every type of shopping experience. Every market is quite individual; some of them sell fruits and vegetables, others – hand-made products, antiques, and traditional clothing. These are not just markets where people go shopping but social centres where the spirit of the city can be sensed.

The markets are crowded and bustle with activity; this makes visitors to Sharjah to get lost in these markets as they explore the smells, views and sounds of the markets. If you are searching for a ‘no-nonsense’ souvenir to take home, or tasting some of the local specialities or feeling the pulse of the street markets, then Sharjah is a must visit. In this blog, let’s explore ten must-visit street markets in Sharjah that every traveler should not miss!

These Top 10 Street Markets in Sharjah You Can’t Miss

1. Al Markazi Souq

Al Markazi Souq or Central Market is one of the most important places in Sharjah and one of the oldest street markets in the city. This market has a colorful mosaic tile design and therefore ensures that it provides a lively environment. There is all types of gold or silver jewelries, antiques, souvenirs, textiles, perfumes, spices and many more. Tourists can find here everything they are searching for, both traditional and modern products combining both in one place.

2. Blue Souq (Central Souq)

The Blue Souq is among the most famous street markets in Sharjah due to its blue tiling and marvelous Islamic style architecture. That market specializes in jewelry, textiles, antiques, and art, among other products. The souq is particularly well-known for its gold market, and many items of jewelry are beautifully designed. If you are a shopper on the look out for gifts or souvenirs to buy for yourself or your loved ones, Blue Souq is a must visit market when you are on a Sharjah city tour.

3. Al Arsah Souq

Al Arsah Souq is one of the oldest souqs in Sharjah but it is a good place to learn about the history of the city. This is a historic traditional market that is in the central business district of the city and is characterized by small alley ways selling almost anything ranging from perfumes to Arabic costumes. The market is especially famous for spices, incense and hand made products and therefore it is worth visiting to buy genuine Emirati products.

4. Souq Al Jubail

If you love to eat or want to know more about the local food products, Souq Al Jubail is the right place to go. This is an active market that is the largest fresh food market in Sharjah and has all the fresh foods you can imagine including fruits, vegetables, meat, fish and spices. The market is well arranged in such a manner that the various sections are given to the various types of produce. That is why it is ideal for buying ingredients for preparing the traditional Emirati cuisine or just for exploring the local food offer.

5. Al Qasba Market

Said to be built in accordance with Islamic architecture, this is one of the most beautiful markets in Sharjah, situated at the Al Qasba canal. The area is a cultural one with Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel and many cafes located near the water. Al Qasba Market has a wide variety of products related to home décor, fashion accessories and gifts. It is also a perfect place for shopping while watching the beauty of the canal.

6. Souq Al Shanasiyah

If you are looking for the most traditional Emirati shopping experience, then Souq Al Shanasiyah should be on your list. This is a beautiful little market which is off the beaten track and a great place to shop for perfumes, fabrics, local products and hand made jewelry. Market is ideal for tourist who would like to get souvenirs and other goods produced in the region. The environment here is somewhat different from the other souqs because it is more personal and less commercial.

7. Souq Al Majaz

Souq Al Majaz is located at the picturesque Al Majaz Waterfront and is a shopping mall and amusement park. This market sells fashion products, accessories, home decorations, etc, at the same time it allows visitors to have a look at the Sharjah Fountain and restaurants nearby. This gives the market a good location by the water which makes it possible to relax after having a full day shopping.

8. Souq Al Mirgab

Souq Al Mirgab is an old school style shopping mall with a contemporary feel. The market is situated in the centre of Sharjah and it is occupied by stalls offering carpets, kitchen utensils and other items for the house. It is the best place to look for antique items and also the native Emirati craftwork. The market is also vibrant, diverse and offers numerous products that are interesting to tourists as well as the locals.

9. Al Musalla Street Market

Al Musalla Street is one of the most developed and busiest streets in Sharjah. It is a very busy street market with numerous shops that include clothes and accessories, electronics, toys and many more. Al Musalla Street is an excellent place for tourists who search for a modern shopping experience as it provides the best clothing stores as well as both new and popular brands.

10. Souq Al Muweilah

For the bargain hunters, Souq Al Muweilah is the right place to be. Situated in Muweilah area of Sharjah, this market is famous for offering cheap products and a wide range of them. Clothes, electronics, toys and accessories are among the products available and since they are relatively cheap, the center attracts many shoppers including tourists.

Conclusion

The street markets in Sharjah are an interesting mix of what traditional Emirati lifestyle and the contemporary shopping mall. From food markets to fashion, and from trinkets to antiques, the following are the top 10 street markets in Sharjah. A Sharjah city tour is incomplete without visiting such colorful markets which will provide you with the insights about local culture and will provide an opportunity to feel the spirit of the city. It’s a pity not to take a walk through these legendary souqs and feel the spirit ofSharjah streets.