Special Features
How To Find Your Way Around In Sharjah
Sharjah city’s road network is based on a grid layout with multi-lane highways linking to other emirates. The drive from the city to the east coast takes less than two hours. Generally the large blue signposts give directions and indicate geographical areas, and brown signs point to government offices, hotels, hospitals, malls, parks and heritage sites. Hiring a car or taking a taxi are the most common ways of getting around.AL QASBA
Al Qasba is a beautiful destination of cultural variety. This water canal that links Khalid lagoon with Mamzar lagoon offers families, residents and visitors an unparalleled entertainment option. So, if you would like to soak yourself in culture, dabble in art, eat out to your heart’s content and entertain your family, head straight to Al qasba where fun and joy are waiting for you with open arms.
GOLF
On a par with the best, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club (06 548 7777) is a green oasis with a golf academy and a nine-hole floodlit course. Book your round in advance. Visit www.golfandshootingshj.com for details.
HORSE RIDING
While in the Emirates, riders of any age, with previous riding experience, should embark on a desert hack. Contact Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club (06 5311155) or Al Awadi Stables (050 965 6870).
ACTIVITY PARKS
For outdoor fun head to Al Jazeera Park (06 569 1202), one of the most family-oriented parks in the emirate- it has an integrated recreational system for all age groups. On Tuesdays Al Jazeera Park is open only for ladies. For fun-filled educational experiences head to Sharjah Desert Park’s museum and wildlife centre (06 531 1999). You can also enjoy large, open grassy expanses at Sharjah National Park (06 562 3333). These recreational areas offer something for all ages.
AMUSEMENT & PLAY CENTRES
Entertainment for the little ones is close at hand in Sharjah’s air-conditioned malls with designated play areas, rides, attractions and the latest video games. Amusement centres are open from 10:00 until late. Entry is usually free and activities are charged individually.
Adventureland - Sahara Centre 06 531 6363
Antic’s Land – Sharjah Mega Mall 06 574 6699
Magic Planet – Sharjah City Centre 06 539 6903
Sky 24 – Al Durrah Tower 06 556 0005
Space City – Safeer Mall 06 531 9933
Treasure Island – Al Fardan Centre 06 556 4666
BEACHES
Building sand castles, snorkeling and having fun in the sun are great ways to enjoy quality family time. Sharjah has safe and clean beaches on both coasts of the UAE.
BOWLING
Go for a strike in Sharjah’s 10 pin bowling centres:
Ewan Hotel ( 10 lanes) 06 528 0111
Radisson Blu Resort (6 lanes) 06 565 7777
Sky 24 (3 lanes) 06 556 0005
CINEMAS
Chill out and relax in comfort while watching the latest blockbuster. Cinemas are open daily. The first showing is around 13:00 and tickets coat Dhs 30 per person.
Grand Buheirah – Al Buheirah Corniche 06 556 3300
Grand Mega Mall – Sharjah Mega Mall 06 575 1888
Grand Sahara – Sahara Centre 06 531 6500
DESERT ADVENTURES IN THE DUNES
For the ultimate thrill, take a drive across the pristine sands. Tour operators can arrange desert safaris, overnight camping trips and sand skiing.
Sharjah Discovery Centre (06 558 6577) – Ideal for toddlers to children of 12 years of age, this colorful scientific centre has differently themed areas which entertain youngsters for hours.
Sharjah Science Museum (06 566 8777) – A hands-on, interactive museum designed to stimulate and inspire all ages, even the youngest visitors.
DINING OUT
Savour the flavours of Al Qasba (06 556 0777), a unique waterfront destination that stretches along the lively banks of the Qasba Canal. Combine dining with culture and leisure activities and enjoy the variety of classy restaurants and cafes that sell cuisine from all over the world. Visit www.qaq.com for more information.
DHOW TRIPS
Local cruises are organized by tour operators. You can also hire dhow on the Al Buheirah Corniche for a water tour around Khalid Lagoon, or from Al Qasba for Al Khan Lagoon and beyond.
EXPLORING
Take a trip to Sharjah’s east coast to discover an Indian Ocean paradise. It’s under two hours drive from the city but offers quite a different experience. Impressive mountains, serene mangroves, golden sand beaches and world-class scuba diving await you. Visit Dibba Al Hisn, Kalba and stop off for lunch and swim at the Oceanic Hotel & Resort in Khor Fakkan.
FISHING
Fully-equipped boats can be chartered through tour operators for deep sea fishing trips on both coasts. Now is your chance to turn your day at sea into a fishing adventure! On this fishing trip you will discover secret spots to catch the biggest fish. The fishing season in Sharjah starts in October and runs through until May.
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