Tourism in the UAE, especially in Sharjah, which is known as the artistic capital of the Emirates, has its unique attractions. Contrary to popular belief, the places to visit in Sharjah for free are just as appealing as the paid attractions. Each of these free attractions has its own charm, which, along with the diverse locations in the city, makes it one of the most touristic and beautiful cities in the UAE.
1. Sharjah Art Museum
When we say that the free attractions in Sharjah are just as impressive as other attractions, we mean it. The Sharjah Art Museum is one of the largest museums in the United Arab Emirates and is considered one of the best sightseeing spots in the city. Here, you can witness Arab world art with your own eyes and view amazing works from 18th-century painters. Additionally, the architecture of this museum is inspired by the Middle Eastern environment, which enhances the beauty of the place, making it a paradise for art enthusiasts.
Address: Sharjah Museum of Art – Al Shuiheen – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
2. Blue Souk
Market exploring is undoubtedly one of the most exciting activities for tourists, as these types of spaces are unique and interesting due to their diversity. Among them, the Central Market of Sharjah stands out as one of the best free attractions in the city. Adorned with turquoise blue tiles and featuring Islamic patterns, it is commonly known among locals as the Blue Market. With over 600 shops, its traditional atmosphere makes it highly appealing to tourists. Furthermore, alongside this market, you can also explore historical artifacts. This market is also the perfect place to buy jewelry and electronic goods.
Address: 89XM+28G – King Faisal Street – Al Majaz 1 – Al Majaz – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
3. Al Noor Mosque
Al Noor Mosque is one of the most magnificent structures in Sharjah and is among the free attractions in the city. It was built in 2005 by Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the ruler of Sharjah, and is one of the few mosques that welcomes non-Muslims. The mosque has a capacity of 2,200 people.
Additionally, this mosque holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest charitable mosque in the world during Ramadan. So, if you find yourself in Sharjah during the Ramadan months, visiting this mosque should definitely be a priority. Moreover, near the mosque, you can also visit the Butterfly Garden, where 500 butterflies of 20 different species are protected.
Address: 89MP+VRX – Al Corniche Street – Al Majaz 1 – Al Majaz – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
4. Al Majaz Waterfront
When we talk about the variety of free attractions in Sharjah, this is exactly what we mean. Al Majaz Waterfront is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Sharjah. At this waterfront, you can enjoy recreational facilities such as a miniature golf course, green spaces, and bike paths. Cultural events and concerts are often held in this area, and if you’re lucky, you might get to attend one of these events or concerts. Additionally, there are also luxurious restaurants in the vicinity. Finally, don’t forget to visit the Sharjah Musical Fountain, which is one of the most famous attractions in the city.
Address: Khalid Lake Trail – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
5. Khalid Lake
Khalid Lake is one of the best free attractions in Sharjah, and you won’t find anything like it anywhere else! This lake features the tallest fountain in the world, located in the heart of Sharjah. The combination of moonlight reflecting off the towering illuminated buildings around the lake creates an astonishing and dramatic atmosphere. It’s worth noting that the lake also hosts an incredible fountain that shoots water up to 100 meters high, making it one of the top places to visit in Sharjah.
Address: Emirate of Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
6. Al Qasba
Al Qasba is one of the coolest areas in Sharjah and among the best free attractions in the city, showcasing the artistic capital of the United Arab Emirates. The purpose of this complex is to enhance visitors’ creativity through a variety of interesting activities, events, and entertainment. Additionally, it is the perfect place for walking, with a range of sights and beautiful bridges along the waterways, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions.
At Al Qasba, you can explore everything from theaters and concerts to art galleries, musical fountains, and cafes with traditional and luxurious architecture. Boat rides are also among the recreational activities available in this beautiful complex.
7. Sharjah Masjid
If you are interested in historical and religious places as well as Islamic art, Sharjah Mosque is a great option to visit. It beautifully showcases Islamic architecture and first opened its doors to tourists in 2019. Covering an area of over 185,000 square meters, it has the capacity to accommodate 25,000 worshippers.
The domes, minarets, columns, gardens, and water pools of the mosque are all designed in the authentic Islamic architectural style, and its walls are adorned with verses from the Quran. In addition to its impressive interior, the mosque has an extraordinary exterior as well.
Address: 6HRC+646 – Dahiya Al-Siuh – Al-Raqiba – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
8. Gold souq
Few tourists leave Sharjah without visiting its shopping centers and the Gold Souks, as all the cities in the United Arab Emirates are famous for gold, and Sharjah is no exception. You can visit the Gold Souq, which is one of the best gold markets in Sharjah. In addition to its beautiful architecture, it offers a variety of gold and jewelry shops that are both economical and renowned. You can enjoy exploring the market, and if you wish, you can also purchase jewelry while you’re there.
Address: Central Souk Sharjah, Central Market 1st Floor Block 5 Shop No.75 – Al Majaz 1 – Al Majaz – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
9. Sharjah International Airport
Sharjah International Airport is another free attraction in Sharjah, located 13 kilometers from the city. It serves as the main hub for the low-cost airline Air Arabia. Covering an area of 15 million square meters, the airport’s architecture and design are so beautiful that it is considered a tourist attraction in Sharjah. It is a destination for flights to Islamabad, Tehran, Jaipur, Izmir, Cairo, Tashkent, Moscow, Shiraz, Istanbul, Antalya, and Baku, featuring both an impressive exterior and interior that can definitely be included in your list of places to visit.
Address: Sharjah International Airport – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates
10. Rolla Square
This square is famous for the tree located in its center, and you might wonder why this tree is so renowned. It is because this tree is the oldest tree in Sharjah, UAE, and many passersby use it as a place to take a short break and have a meal.
This tree was planted in the first half of the 19th century by the then-ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Sultan I bin Saqr Al Qasimi, and it is approximately 150 years old. It is considered one of the free attractions in Sharjah.
Address: Rolla – Al Ghowair – Al Gharb – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
11. Heart of Sharjah
The Heart of Sharjah is one of the largest historical preservation and conservation projects in the region, planned for a 15-year period that will conclude in 2025. It aims to create a cultural and tourism destination through the construction of new structures that embody traditional Sharjah architecture, transforming them into hotels, cafes, art galleries, and markets for future generations. This project is also considered one of the free attractions in Sharjah.
Address: 995M+PP9 – Sharjah Al Cornish – Al Marijah – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
12. Kalba Village
Most tourists consider Sharjah to be a completely dry and desert-like city; however, it has a village called Kalba that seems almost a part of another world. This village is so picturesque and beautiful that it is worth the 100-kilometer journey. Interestingly, fishing is also practiced in this village, and you can not only enjoy the natural scenery and ambiance but also watch fishing activities, visit several museums, and explore the old houses of this charming village.
Address: Haryana 123023
13. Khor Fakkan Area
Sometimes, you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time relaxing in a calm and natural setting. The Khor Fakkan area is one of the best places for this, located just an hour and a half from the city of Sharjah. It is a very beautiful and tranquil area that is recognized as one of the largest ports in the UAE. In addition, there are various recreational and entertainment options available in this region, making it one of the free attractions in Sharjah.
Khor Fakkan is nestled in the jewel of the Hajar Mountains, with its stunning beach and beautiful surroundings, creating a dreamy destination for tourists.
Address: Khorfakkan
14. Al Hefaiyah Lake
The artificial lake of Al Hafiya Dam is another of the best free attractions in Sharjah, located on the road from Sharjah to Kalba. If you plan to visit Kalba, be sure to check out the Al Hafiya Dam artificial lake as well. This lake is one of the top tourist attractions in Sharjah, where you can enjoy walking along the waterfront, dining, and boating as part of your activities.
Address: Sharjah Road – Kalba – Jebel Al Farish – Sharjah Emirate – United Arab Emirates
Conclusion
After visiting and exploring the free attractions in Sharjah, you will clearly understand why this city is known as the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is a city rich in beautiful free sightseeing options alongside various attractions, including natural, modern, and historical sites. Interestingly, you can enjoy visiting museums, lakes, lush green areas, and numerous natural attractions without spending any money.
Which place do you think is the best free attraction in Sharjah?