sharjah my destination no.1

my destinationSharjah

The official magazine of Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority May-July 2010

Dining in Styleal fresco in Al Qasba

Discovering the East Coastbeaches, biking & diving

Sharjah...‘Capital of Islamic Culture 2014’

Opening Message

Welcome to Sharjah

For over 5,000 years Sharjah has been welcoming visitors, but with so much to see and do it is more exciting now than ever before.

It is a great pleasure to welcome you to Sharjah and to this Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority magazine which will hopefully help you to make the most of your time in this magical emirate.

There has never been a better time to visit Sharjah. Recently awarded the title of Capital of Islamic Culture for 2014, there are stunning museums and exciting events, wonderful places to explore and fantastic things to do.

History is important here, there has been settlement on the site of this city for over 5,000 years. There is proud celebration of an illustrious heritage as a major trading centre in the region, but the ancient and the modern are triumphant together in Sharjah.

With a world class infrastructure, the values and cultures of the past are cherished here to create a fascinating and fun destination. In this magazine we show off exciting and involving history, internationally celebrated museums and fascinating buildings beautifully restored to bring the past to life.

Nowhere quite embraces old and new like Sharjah. We want you to see all of Sharjah, from ancient souqs to majestic mountains, modern restaurants to captivating museums. We want to take you from the west coast to the east, from the city to the beach and from a rich history to an exciting future.

Sharjah is a capital of culture and history. It is an adventure like no other. It is your destination.

Sultan bin Ahmed Al QassimiChairman

This first edition of the official magazine of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority highlights the emirate as a unique tourist destination. Future issues of the quarterly magazine will continue to tell Sharjah’s magical story, to explore its secrets and share its treasures.

In This Issue Xxxxxxxxxx

Discovering the East Coastbeach hopping, mountain biking and scuba diving pg. 21

World-Renowned Centre of Learning pg. 26

There is always something exciting

going on down by the canal at Al Qasba and

families come out in force for ice cream days

and funfair nights.

27Attracting Investment pg. 25

The Great Sharjah Storythe Heritage Area pg. 15

Sharjah Water Festival a world class sporting event, family festival

and carnival of attractions pg. 11

The Coast 21Explore the east coast

Leisure 23Sharjah’s parks and lagoons

Business 25Attracting investment

Education 26Leading regional standards

Family 27A day out for all the family

Listings 29Complete directory

Useful Numbers 34

Sharjah Maps 35

Sharjah 5Capital of Islamic Culture

Calendar 7Upcoming events

Past Events 11Sharjah Water Festival

SCTDA News 13‘Best Arab World Exhibitor’

Heritage & Culture 15Inside the Heritage Area

Museums 17Museum of Islamic Civilization

Dining 19Al fresco in Al Qasba

Shopping 20Look into Sharjah’s souqs

Published by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority

Tel +971 (6) 5566777 Fax +971 (6) 5563000 P.O. Box 26661, Sharjah, UAE www.sharjahtourism.ae

Copyright © 2010 Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority Images © 2010 Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority Maps © 2010 Explorer Publishing

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions it may contain.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

An Explorer Publishing & Distribution publication www.explorerpublishing.com

Issue 1 May-July 2010Issue 1 May-July 2010

There are sleepy beaches on the

coast, but also a world of adventure

both up in the mountains above

and down beneath the waves.

21

This is real Arabia, the real story, told

like nowhere else. A tale, set in sea stone,

of riches and pride, of a noble community

adapting and thriving with the climate and

resources at hand.

15

Sharjah is to be the official 2014 Capital of Islamic Culture

Capital of CultureThe title will further enhance

Sharjah’s reputation as a regional and international cultural hub. The build up to 2014 and the big year itself will prove exciting and vibrant, attracting visitors and investors from around the world.Sharjah is already recognised as a world leading destination and this new cultural achievement will only increase its reputation as a heritage holiday hotspot. With over 20 stunning museums and a host of exciting events it is no wonder that tourists flock to this magical emirate.

It is already a cultural capital. Nowhere combines old and new quite like Sharjah, nowhere celebrates and champions its full story, its past, its present and its future with such style and enthusiasm.

The cultural life has always been central to Sharjah and as the modern metropolis has grown, so too has there been extraordinary investment in mosques, museums, galleries, theatres, exhibitions, educational institutions and cultural events.

The title of 2014 Capital of Islamic Culture is just reward but it is no surprise, for Sharjah already is a capital of culture.

The prestigious accolade from the OIC (Organisation of the Islamic Conference) follows on from previously being UNESCO Cultural Capital of the Arab Region and highlights Sharjah’s position at the cultural centre of the Islamic world.

Long celebrated for its world class museums and attractions, this great tribute is proud celebration of a continuing program of cultural and Islamic events. It demonstrates how Sharjah is seen as the home of Islamic heritage, home to history, culture and religion.

Sharjah - Capital of Islamic Culture Sharjah - Capital of Islamic Culture

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Sharjah celebrates its cultural and artistic heritage with a series of exhibitions that feature the finest traditional craftsmanship as well as involving the whole family.

8Issue 1 May-July 2010Issue 1 May-July 2010

MAY

until 7 JuneThe Art Of Arabic Calligraphy Sharjah Calligraphy MuseumThe 4th Sharjah Biennial for

the Art of Arabic CalligraphyExhibition includes 260 works

by more than 150 artists from 28 countries, and features a variety of styles and techniques

1-31Family Fun Al Qasba, SharjahEvents to entertain children

of all ages including puppet shows, clowns, funfair and boat rides

AUGUST

11th RamadanIslamic month of fasting

11 Aug-13 Sep Ramadan FairExpo Centre SharjahEntertainment event for

all the familyMore than 200 exhibitors

featuring products from all over the worldHeritage village, fun rides,

raffle draws, jugglers, magic shows, restaurants, face painting, balloon twisting, stilt walkers, sky dancersProduct launches and

brand promotions

23 Aug-12 SepRamadaniat Al Qasba Al Qasba, SharjahInspired by the spirit of

RamadanReligion, culture and history

are celebrated in a series of events and activities to educate and inspireIllumination art and Arabic

calligraphy demonstrationsLectures, in English and

Arabic, to educate visitors about the virtues of Ramadan

SEPTEMBER

10-12Eid Al-FitrReligious holiday

JUNE

20 June-20 JulySharjah Summer Promotions Various venues across SharjahShopping festival with

amazing discounts, offers, raffles and prize drawsGlobal shopping destination,

cultural exhibitions, health awareness activitiesChildren’s shows, games,

activities and Big Fun Village at Al Qasba

JULY

9 Israa & MiraajReligious holiday

Upcoming Events Calendar Upcoming Events Calendar

Sharjah, home of heritage and entertainment...May-September

Sharjah hosts exciting shopping promotions throughout the year, and its shops and malls are always vibrant with busy shoppers from all over the region and wider world.

7


OCTOBER

6-16 Sharjah World Book FairExpo Centre SharjahOperating since 198210 day annual eventPromoting local, Arabic

and foreign language books, periodicals and journals 400,000 visitors, more

than 750 publishers from 42 nationsSales and Retail Divisions

feature Arabic and foreign language sections.Attended by publishing

houses, media, cultural establishments, universities

The F1 Powerboat World Championship season reaches its dramatic crescendo every year on the calm waters of Sharjah’s Khalid Lagoon.

25-28ConMex & TransMex Expo Centre SharjahThe region’s leading show

for construction machinery, equipment and vehiclesSpecial wide ranging

exhibition of commercial vehicles, on display in their own pavilionComplete technical and

services solutions to the construction sector

NOVEMBER

16-19 Eid Al-AdhaReligious holiday

From high culture to high drama...

October-December

23-27 International Automobile ShowExpo Centre SharjahThe region’s most popular

biennial exhibition for car lovers features the world’s finest automotive brandsThe show hosts major regional

car launches, prototype cars, classic cars, cutting-edge in-car technologies, as well as competitions, prizes and driving challenges

DECEMBER

2-11 Sharjah Water FestivalAl Majaz Park, SharjahSharjah’s premier all-family,all-action carnival attraction

2-4 UAE National DayVarious venues across SharjahCelebrations involving the

whole communityParade, cultural

competitions, traditional songs and dances, puppet and theatre shows and fireworks

7 Islamic (Hijri) New YearReligious holiday

10-11 F1 Powerboat World ChampionshipsKhalid Lagoon, SharjahSeason finaleTwo powerboat grand prixAmazing sporting spectacle

Upcoming Events Calendar Upcoming Events Calendar

As befits its rich cultural history as the educational and artistic hub of the region, Sharjah has been hosting its international book fair for almost 30 years now.

12

The Etisalat Sharjah Water Festival generated a great response in 2009. The festival exceeded expectations and will prove to be a key event again in 2010.

Past Events Past Events

Sharjah Water Festival takes place in and around Khalid Lagoon at the very beginning of December every year and makes a sensational event vacation.

Sharjah Water Festival 2009

In its skies and across its waters, carnival came to Sharjah. Bigger and better every year, this 10th anniversary Etisalat Sharjah Water Festival was a sensation. Tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world gathered along the shores of Khalid Lagoon for the great show.

The festival is carnival, circus, musical extravaganza and a world class sporting event. Visitors arrive, many year after year, from every corner of the globe. There are Europeans combining the festival’s attractions with the opportunity for great winter sun and holiday-season shopping. There are sports fans, happy families and proud Emiratis coming to enjoy the carnival atmosphere.

A special play area of inflatable games, slides and amusements occupied the kids themselves.

There were attractions for all ages within the festival area of Al Majaz Park, traditional shows, exhibitions and workshops by Sharjah’s museums and heritage departments, great shopping at the Night Souq and an exciting menu at the Food Court.

The carnival’s crescendo is always the Sharjah Formula 1 Powerboat Grand Prix. This major sporting event is broadcast to 150 nations worldwide and is the climax of both the Sharjah Water Festival and the F1 Powerboat season. Described as akin to driving a Formula 1 car across a ploughed field, it is one of the most spectacular and exciting sports in the world, and Sharjah is its most dramatic home. It is also the most popular, for drivers and spectators, and has won countless awards. Determining who will be world champion, the last two grand prix of the season are held here at Sharjah every year on the final weekend of the Water Festival. This 10th anniversary event was great sporting theatre. Starting tight against the shore, the 24 powerboats took off like furious fireworks across Khalid lagoon towards the skyscrapers on the far shore; racing at up to 225kph (130mph) around a course marked by buoys for 45 minutes at a go, rearing up, skidding, rolling and biting each other like so many angry ducks. In the end popular Italian Guido Cappellini was crowned world champion for the tenth time. And for the tenth year in succession the Sharjah Water Festival was celebrated as a world class sporting event, family festival and carnival of attractions.

It all kicked off with a special parade on UAE National Day and some 75,000 enjoyed the show on the first weekend alone. Over 11 days and two weekends, tens of thousands flocked to its carnival attractions. Entertainments for all the family were centred at the base of Khalid Lagoon in Al Majaz Park. Giant clowns, circus shows, cartoon characters and a bouncy-castle kingdom entertained the masses. The festival spirit saw fire jugglers, fire eaters, stilt walkers and even an acrobatic diving troupe and a set of synchronised stunt water-skiers.

Throughout the festival the skies were filled with hot air balloons, light shows or fireworks and the accompanying soundtrack was sensational. The opening ceremony saw a one-off performance by the world famous Italian orchestra I Cameristi Triestini, which proved the perfect dramatic curtain-raiser. There were also military bands, carnival parades of saxophonist clowns, traditional musicians and regular song and dance shows from the Sesame Street Performance.

The star throughout for the many happy, smiling, face-painted children was Mouj, the festival’s friendly mascot. Meaning ‘wave’ in Arabic, big

blue Mouj was a popular ambassador and was in great demand for photocalls as were the many other giant cartoon characters in the Mouj Play Area. This kids’ dream world was full of activities, games and entertainments including acrobat pirates juggling and somersaulting on a special pirate boat. A team of elite high divers, all the way from Florida, performed stunts and gymnastics in comedy costumes from their high diving boards.

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Sharjah was awarded the Best Arab World Exhibitor Award amidst heavy competition at the International Tourism Bourse in Berlin, Germany.The award is granted based on an evaluation by the Business School at the University of Cologne of the 11,000 participating stands concerning design, creativity, promotional materials and information provided to ITB visitors. The Sharjah stand complied with all the requirements, seeing more than 25,000 visitors flocking to its stand over the course of the exhibition.Commenting on Sharjah’s accomplishment at the ITB, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), stated that the award

- the fourth consecutive award

Tourists Flock To Sharjah Sharjah On The World Tourism MapWith a view to further increase tourism, plans have been announced to expand many promotional campaigns for the various attractions on offer in Sharjah as an integral part of its global marketing strategy. The promotional campaigns for 2010 will cover the GCC and CIS regions, as well as Eastern Europe, in reflection of the ambition to keep improving the emirate’s position on the world’s tourism map.

Tourists Mostly From Europe Or GCCRecently released figures show that most tourists to Sharjah are from Europe. Hotel occupancy in 2009 was dominated by Europeans who accounted for 42% of the number. The second largest sector, with 23%, was made up of visitors from the GCC region, with 11% from other Arab countries. An impressive and significant 15% of tourists were from Asia, with 6% from Africa, 2% from America and 1% from Pacific countries.

Sharjah’s World TourIn 2010, no less than 23 international exhibitions and road shows are on the agenda for the SCTDA. The rigorous itinerary includes the world’s three largest annual travel exhibitions, namely the renowned ITB Berlin in March, ATM in Dubai in May and London’s WTM in November. In addition to these mammoth events, the SCTDA will also be present at MITT Moscow, TUR Gothenburg, GIBTM Abu Dhabi, the BITE exhibition in Beijing, the Leisure Exhibition in Moscow, ITB Asia and EIBTM in Barcelona, as well as presenting a number of road shows across the GCC, CIS and Eastern European regions.

Participation in numerous travel exhibitions worldwide has proven to be a highly effective means of promoting Sharjah’s unique attractions on a global scale, resulting in an ever-increasing number of new visitors to the emirate each year.

More than 1.5 million tourists visit Sharjah each year to enjoy its unique attractions and rich cultural heritage.

As the tourism sector in the emirate of Sharjah grows more important, and as the need for more effective principles and standards arise to support this vital sector, cooperation between the private and the government sectors becomes a significant strategic option to support the development and growth process of the tourism sector.This comment by Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), was made during the Sharjah Tourism Excellence Award press conference organized by SCTDA at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It was attended by SCTDA Director General, HE Mohamed A. Al Noman, along with a number of officials and media representatives. During his speech, Al Qassimi stressed the importance of the award as an annual event as it encourages establishments to support and contribute to the development of the tourism sector in Sharjah, putting the emirate in the lead on the international tourism scene.

SCTDA News SCTDA News

SCTDA launches “Sharjah Tourism Excellence Award”

Best Arab World Exhibitor for Sharjah at ITB - reflects the hard work put in by the SCTDA to promote Sharjah by painting a bright picture of the emirate at various international events.

“This international award joins a vast list of SCTDA accolades and adds more responsibility towards supporting Sharjah’s status on the world tourism map, which we are keen to maintain under the support and guidance of HH Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of the emirate of Sharjah.”

“The SCTDA has built on the strong foundation of last year’s ‘Success Partners Award’, developing it into a prestigious accolade for the tourism establishment that best applies world-class principles and standards on par with the nature and capabilities of the tourism sector in the emirate of Sharjah.”

Preserved in time, this is the Sharjah of some 200 years ago, before the discovery of oil, when it was the most important port in the region and wealthy on trade, seafaring and pearls.

The Great Sharjah Story

The ancient city walls protect old Sharjah now as they have always done. Between watchful turrets they stretch in straight lines, four metres tall, bringing perspective to passing pedestrians and the modern city growing close outside. Inside, the Sharjah Heritage Area is the happiest and most evocative of mazes.

The coral stone buildings and labyrinthine passages echo as you walk through them, passages narrow enough to guarantee shade for most of the day opening into spacious, airy squares. The region’s story is told here like nowhere else. A tale, set in sea stone, of riches and pride, of a noble community adapting and thriving with the climate and resources at hand.

The doors stand out, thick, heavy carved hardwood, with iron fixings and knockers like medieval shields. They are imposing and beautiful and quite rightly remind of far-off lands for these are the doors of wealthy traders familiar with the exotic. There is promise, and the occasional glimpse through joins in the doors, of cool courtyards beyond.

Inside the grand doorway of Bait Al Naboodah is indeed a

sanctuary. This outstanding example of local Emirati architecture was home to a wealthy pearl trading family and is now a fascinating heritage museum showcasing Arabian craftsmanship of the era. Trees in the courtyard give shade and arched windows surround the two tall storeys to make the most of any cooling breeze.

Cooling the house became an architectural art form and at the Majlis Al Midfaa it was perfected. Hemmed with a mosaic of blue, white and green tiles, the round windtower is the only one of its kind in the UAE. Rising high above the building it is designed to catch any prevailing breeze and direct it down, through the rooms below, to be drawn out of an exhaust shaft. It is easy to understand the success of this majlis as a library, meeting place and cultural hub given its ingenious predecessor to air conditioning.

Education has long been central to Sharjah society and the Al Eslah School Museum takes you into the emirate’s first classroom. Kept as it would have been when established a lifetime ago in 1935, pens still stand in inkpots on the wooden desks,

verses from the Quran adorn the walls and upstairs is a dormitory for foreign students.

All the buildings in this area have been lovingly restored and are now open as a series of museums. The house of Khalid bin Ibrahim, one of the leading pearl merchants in the Gulf, shows how he brought his own Bahrani architectural style and lifestyle to Old Sharjah. Nearby is a mosque, a theatre, a museum

of calligraphy and the oldest souq in the UAE.

You can hear the bustle of the dockside dhows from Souq Al Arsa and it is impossible not to imagine yourself back in those early trading times. Beneath a traditional palm leaf roof, carpets, antiques and handicrafts are bartered for as they have always been. With a mint tea or spiced coffee it is an unmissable way to engage with the past.

Sharjah old and new come together most dramatically at the Sharjah Fort. It stands, just 200 metres from the creek, proud, straight-walled and

well-set as it has for many generations but now assimilated into the city, dwarfed by multi-storey buildings and with traffic speeding around it.

Nowhere displays the story of Sharjah and the history of all this region better than The Sharjah Heritage Museum. Set on a wide square with the modern city rising high behind, an amazing collection of exhibits tells fully how this area survived and thrived before the discovery of oil. Ancient coins that seem bashed flat by time evoke trades past. Costumed mannequins, large-scale photographs and a selection of jewellery, pottery, weaponry and other artefacts bring to life a past when fishing, farming, pearling and then maritime trade drove the economy. This is real Arabia, the real story, told like nowhere else.

Sharjah’s Heritage Area is easy to find on the shores of Sharjah Creek at the entrance to Khalid Lagoon. The museums are open from 08:00 (16:00 on Fridays) until 20:00. Entry is Dhs.5 for adults and free for children.

Heritage & CultureHeritage & Culture - Heritage Area


Museums

The first thing to catch your attention is the great gilt dome. It catches the sun from atop the vast Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization that dominates this section of the creek. Along the waterside, in this reflected glare, huddles of dhows continue the timeless hustle and bustle of maritime trade that is one of the constants of this nation’s history. Inside there is calm.

Like Sharjah itself, the museum’s approach mixes the old and the new. Exhibits range from the latest ladies’ fashions to precious ancient manuscripts. The landmark building, itself a 1980s take on traditional style, has undergone an exciting modern transformation from its previous use as a souq.

There is great space inside, light pours in from windows high in the arched ceiling giving a sense of peace to the cavernous halls. It is particularly reverential in the faith gallery. The five pillars of Islam are set out as the foundation of all Islamic civilization and there is a stunning collection of Quranic texts - calligraphy and devotion displayed in ink and gold on pamphlet, parchment and animal skin even.

Black silk so intricately woven with gold that it glows, the sitara,

(a Ka’ba door cover), dominates the Mecca displays that include architectural models, old illustrations and a stunning series of photographs.

Alongside the story of Ibn Battuta, sepia photographs of pilgrims past start to tell the history of Hajj. It was way back in 1325 that Ibn Battuta set off on his first Hajj. From his home in Tangier, he set out for Mecca’s ‘exquisite’ mosque before journeying on, for 75,000 miles in 30 years across the entire known, and barely-known, Islamic world.

The museum brilliantly links this necessity to travel, and to know the direction of Mecca, with innovations in navigation, exploration and shared knowledge. In a series of artefacts and interactive displays it champions the heroes of the Islamic Golden Age.

There is something very exciting about this age of innovation, when Europe was mired in the Dark Ages and wisdoms of previous generations were in danger of being lost for ever.

The knowledge of the Ancient Greeks is seen carried on by Islamic scientists such as C10th ‘father of science’ Ibn Al Haythan, and a series of interactive models show the development of irrigation technologies since Archimedes’ day.

There are also models showcasing the inventive genius of C12th Turkish engineer Al Jazari and his innovations with gears, clocks and even water-powered robots. His and Hassan Al Rammah’s inventions, including hand-grenades and torpedos, would inspire Leonard de Vinci. They truly were sons of the Greeks and fathers of the European renaissance.

Upstairs the collection displays the development of the Islamic

aesthetic through the ages. The mix of extraordinary beauty and practical application is shown in ink, ceramic, textile and metals. There are ancient coins, stunning jewellery, terrifying weaponry and models of paradise gardens. Indeed the displays journey right through to the development of modern Islamic ladies fashion, from tracksuits to swimsuits.

This extraordinary collection of over 5,000 exhibits spanning 1,400 years is perhaps best captured in a single box in one of the downstairs galleries. A working model of an C11th invention automatically uses world-leading water technologies to play music and set off a series of robotic figurines. Exquisitely carved dancers appear from an Arabian palace and cross a courtyard where goats dip their heads to drink. Then a snake-charmer levitates from the well before summoning his snakes through the floor. It is extraordinary and much more than a toy. It is, like the museum itself, beautiful, educational and fun.

The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is on the city-side of the creek just before it joins the Arabian Gulf. It opens at 08:00 (Fridays at 16:00) and closes at 20:00. Entrance is Dhs.5 for adults, Dhs.10 for families and free for children.

Amazing CivilizationThe history here is the full story of Islamic civilization, exciting and interactive in this world-class, one-of-a-kind museum.

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Museums - Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

Issue 1 May-July 2010

ShoppingDining

In Al Qasba, along the banks of the canal, between palm trees and wooden bridges, stretch sweeping walkways showcasing the finest international cuisine. With its cool hacienda-style architecture and alluring al fresco eating, there is something of the Mediterranean Riviera about Al Qasba.

There are cafes and restaurants from around the world. Familiar coffee shop chains are here, with locally-flavoured treats like Starbucks’ Zatar Twist pastry. Everywhere there are both shaded outside seating and cool interiors.

Inside the Syrian Al Nofara café is a fountain surrounded with tables and armchairs, perfect for escaping the heat of the day and enjoying their amazing sweets and coffees. Elsewhere juices of pomegranate, sugar cane or date, milk and honey, from the

taverna style of Fish Corner. Here you select your fresh seafood from the wet counter and have it served up baked, steamed, grilled, sautéed or deep-fried.

The antique swinging chairs outside Masala Craft draw fans of Indian food. There are also spicy treats at Thai restaurant Lemongrass. European cuisine is represented by the ever popular Nandos and by Stefano’s, an Italian restaurant popular with both adults and children for pasta, pizzas and their amazing Tiramisu dessert.

Al Qasba is centrally located, joining the bases of Al Khan Lagoon and Khalid Lagoon. An all day attraction, restaurants are typically open from 12:00 to 23:30, cafes from 08:00 to 23:30, 00:30 at weekends.

Central Souq, Khalid Lagoon09:30–13:30 & 16:30–22:30Souq Al Arsa, Heritage Area09:00–13:00 & 16:30–21:00.Souq Al Bahar, Sharjah Creek08:30–13:00 & 16:00–23:00Fish Souq, Khalid Lagoon06:30-12:30 & 17:00-22:00.Fruit & Vegetable Souq and Plant & Pot Souq,Khalid Lagoon, 07:30-22:30.

Al Qasba SouqsAt any time of day or night this is the place to dine in Sharjah

Sharjah’s shopping secrets are in the enthralling and absorbing souqs.

colourful, modern Jucito, are popular at breakfast and as an afternoon refresher.

By day it is peaceful, the cafes and restaurants calm with business lunches, laptop coffee breaks and childminding mothers. By night, the lively buzz is an atmosphere of family promenading and fine dining.

The patterned purple interior draws you into Shababeek. Behind a central brass bar, chefs prepare an amazing Lebanese menu, mix fantastic juices and man two great saj domes. These flatbreads, sweet or savoury, make great snacks. An amazing combination is the lamb saj with their special house lemonade which, made with rosewater and grenadine, tastes just like Turkish delight.

Fish is celebrated raw and cooked at the intricate Sumo Sushi and the exciting Greek

Typical to Sharjah, the shopping here embraces the modern and the traditional. From timeless souqs to sparkling malls, Sharjah’s shopping secrets are such that people flock from all over the region. With an enthralling mix of absorbing atmosphere and amazing things to see and buy, the souqs are central to Sharjah life.

Souq Al Arsa, meaning courtyard souq, is an ancient covered souq that has been brilliantly cherished. It is immaculate and atmospheric, selling precious carpets, exotic jewels, delicate silks and regional curios – just as it has always done.

Originally a meeting place for desert Bedouin to trade camels and charcoal with the faraway fancies of seafaring merchants, it is now a great place to find

souvenirs and to slowly soak up the ambience in the traditional café.

Along the creek, the Souq Al Bahar runs its atmosphere in a chaotic frenzy. It is a maze of spices and rices, there are stalls of products from all four corners of the world. Across the road, trading dhows busy loading and unloading a myriad of goods are a collage of white-decked dark teak.

Smells of gasoline and fish mix with aromas of cardamom and coffee. There are stacks of boxes, suites of furniture, barrels of corn oil, mountains of rice sacks and towers of tyres wrapped in gold, silver or pink foil. Brightly coloured and atmospheric, this is a photographer’s delight.

There are more photo opportunities at the bustling Fish Souq and Fruit & Vegetable Souq. Early morning or late afternoon are great times to appreciate the region’s colourful produce and to whet your appetite. At the Plant & Pot Souq the pace is gentler. It is a mini botanical gardens with lovely little clay gifts to buy.

Central Souq is Sharjah’s main market. Blue-tiled, this impressive, airy shopper’s paradise has been drawing

visitors since 1979. It is an impressive blend of the ancient and modern. The traditional souq maze of shops has been stretched long in two two-floor turbine halls. The beautiful Arabic architecture lends a sense of art gallery to the collection of over 600 shops. Principally gold and carpets, jewels and textiles, this is the most amazing place to bargain for a treasure.

As you journey down past coloured lanterns and silver daggers the smells are of popcorn then perfume, the sounds a hubbub of chatter, children shrieking and fountains tinkling. From the latest electronics to vintage handicrafts, with prams gliding, kids rollerblading and old men haggling, it is impossible to not be entranced.



The CoastThe Coast

rugged mountains overlooking golden beaches and clear blue seas. Even the drive there is amazing, a short and spectacular two hours will see you across the Hajar mountains to the Gulf of Oman on the east coast. Here the enclaves of Dibba, Khor Fakkan and Kalba promise a quieter life along their gentle shores.

The southernmost, Kalba is a charming fishing town with long beaches and is famed for its mangrove forest, the oldest in Arabia and most northerly in the world. Here, stretching up the creek, is a unique wildlife habitat rich in rare and exotic species, and popular with kayakers.

The Creek of Two Jaws, Khor Fakkan, has a dramatic sandy bay wrapped in high-sided hills. Beyond the sweeping sands is a fascinating old harbour that is now home to great fishing and diving trips.

Soft, sandy coves, theatrically intercut with rock formations and backed by the huge Hajar mountains, Dibba is a magical spot. A collection of three fishing villages around an arcing bay, this is a great place to escape from it all.

DivingUnderwater, the east coast is incredible. From seahorses to whale sharks, turtles to manta rays, a kaleidoscope of corals and fascinating wrecks make the waters here amongst the best in Arabia for diving and snorkelling.

With everything from simple shallow snorkelling to the most technical deep diving there is a great undersea world to explore. There is an amazing array of well-researched dive sites and very well-respected operators to take you out.

It is an aquarium world out there, from the smallest colourful nudibranchs, through a confetti (variety) of tropical fish to turtles and sharks, from the shallowest reefs to unexplored depths.

There are wrecks to explore. Some lay where they sank, others have been purposefully installed as artificial reefs. They can all become accessible with the great training that is available. Experienced divers must also try the night diving here. In the dark, after the heat of the day, this is a special experience. Down on the reefs, as they feed, the corals come to life, brighter and more colourful in torchlight. There are displays of dancing shrimp and signalling cuttlefish, inquisitive squid,

The CoastThere are sleepy beaches on the east coast, but also a world of adventure both up in the mountains above and down beneath the waves.

feeding morays and drifting batfish. There is the chance, at Shark Island in particular, of swimming with sharks. Just off Khor Fakkan, the blacktip reef sharks will do you no harm and can almost be better appreciated by snorkellers.

The most popular snorkelling spot on the coast is the, friendlier-named, Snoopy Island with sheltered reefs and fleets of slow sailing lionfish about the corals. Most of the diving is easiest out of Khor Fakkan but there are also lots of coral reefs at Dibba Island. Here both snorkellers and divers are almost guaranteed to see mesmeric, mosaic, green turtles.

Sharjah is unique in having coast to both east and west, on the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. There are beaches galore and even the harbours, the great historical sources of wealth, are spectacular sights. Built around its famous port, lagoons and creek, Sharjah city offers plenty in the way of west coast water sports and there are gorgeous beaches too.Over on the east it is absolutely idyllic, an undiscovered land of

BikingMountain biking on the east coast is one of the great secrets, great experiences and great adventures of the region. Up in the craggy Hajar mountains is an adventure playground for two wheels.

The mountains rise to nearly 600m and there are some truly breathtaking views and hair-raising descents, but there is easy riding too. The variety of trails available stretch from flat coastal paths to rolling fertile hill country and right up to the steepest, craggiest canyons.

After some strenuous pedalling there is nothing more rewarding than arriving at a cool waterfall with pools to swim in. There are plenty of wadis and the Khor Fakkan dam to aim for. There are also restored forts and even the ruins of one of the Queen of Sheba’s palaces to explore.

Experienced guides can show you the most extreme and demanding routes – or even arrange to take you to the top of a trail so that you can slowly cruise downhill. With majestic views over the ocean below and the opportunity to silently roll through rustic villages, amongst wrinkled date trees and ancient ruins, there is a real pioneer spirit to exploring this undiscovered landscape on a bicycle.


23 Issue 1 May-July 2010

in the sun before being colourfully illuminated at night.

Lying in the back of a dhow on a sunset cruise is an essential experience. It is a slow and serene way to absorb Sharjah’s charms. For something a little less contemplative head to the beach on the western side of Al Mamzar lagoon. Here under shades along the sand are jetskis for hire. Powerful Yamaha two-seaters tempt you to rev up some spray and race around the jade lagoon. With a backdrop of dhows and skyscrapers this is the ultimate way to see Sharjah old and new.


LeisureLeisure

There are small parks in every residential area, over 30 throughout the city, and huge destination parks that are attractions in their own right. They are all popular with families, particularly at weekends, and there are always plenty of people out for a stroll, a game or a picnic.

All the parks are well equipped with lawns, play areas and shaded seating. Picnics are encouraged and some have full barbecue facilities. They typically open from 16:00 to 22:00, although many have ladies-only evenings and some are closed for much of the working week. There are signs at all the gates with timings, rules and regulations – in English and Arabic.

The largest park, located inland near the airport, Sharjah National Park is a 630,000 sq m expanse of trees and paths, sports pitches and model attractions that draws big weekend crowds. Set just off Cultural Square, Green Belt Park is discreet but fun. This park is for ladies and children only with beautiful fountains and a 250 seater theatre amongst its 137,000 sq m.

All Sharjah’s parks are immaculately well-kept and well-used. The pagodas and play areas are clean and welcoming. The planting is fantastical. There are big fig trees, an array of palms, thin eucalyptus and prickly acacia and everywhere, fireworks of flowerbeds.

Amongst the gardenia, bougainvillea and orange jessamine are exotic trumpet trees that can change to bright yellow and royal poinciana, so red it is known as the flame tree.

Parks LagoonsSharjah is the greenest of cities. One of the greenest in the region.

From the lagoons Sharjah makes sense. It is impressive in reflection rising from the waters.

Built around its port, creek and four lagoons this striking modern city is still in touch with its proud history as a pearling and trading centre. The lagoons, fringed with palm trees and skyscrapers, bobbing with dhows and jetskis, perfectly represent both old and new.

Early mornings see timeless dhows and tireless joggers. The dhows making slow dawn runs, fishing in the close waters or trading farther across the gulf. The joggers train themselves around the green and pleasant paths that ring each lagoon.

Lined with palms, these cornice routes, from 3km around Al Mamzar to the 10km of Khalid Lagoon, challenge the keenest runners and the calmest walkers, often including in their number foreign visitors looking to get the best possible start to the day.

The dhows have always been here. Scooting through the lagoons, the smaller, sleeker boats were designed for nearby pearling banks not distant ports. The larger ones line the creek now as they have always done, before venturing out into the Gulf to trade their busy cargoes.

The most valuable deals are done now in the towering offices of the many skyscrapers that surround Khalid Lagoon. The lagoon is the city’s

courtyard and is celebrated with a towering fountain, at 100 metres, the third highest in the world. At four every afternoon until ten at night it erupts, a spectacular display that shines

More centrally located right at the base of Khalid Lagoon, Al Majaz Park is very popular after work during the week with its 11,300 sq m of geometric lawns and stunning central mosque.

The most famous of all the parks is Al Jazeera. On the central island in Khalid Lagoon, it has been entertaining since 1979 & generations have grown up amongst the palm trees, pathways and attractions.

More theme park than city gardens, there are lovely waterside walks along the lagoon which surrounds its 250,000 sq m, but its centre is always busier with children dragging their parents around till late at night, entranced by the bright lights and exciting rides. There are go-karts, boats and a train. There is a swimming pool, a log flume and a small zoo – and, as ancestor to the Eye of the Emirates, a funfair-colourful Ferris wheel.

24

Business

Attracting InvestmentThroughout its history Sharjah has been a natural trade centre and has always encouraged investment

There has never been a more exciting time to invest in Sharjah. The considered approach to infrastructure investment has reached fruition, Sharjah is now cutting-edge modernised and realising its potential as a booming regional economy.

Oil and gas are still the mainstay of the economy but tourism, retail and real estate are on the rise, as are manufacturing industries, particularly plastics production. The airport, ports and free zones are amongst the best in the region.

Location is crucial to Sharjah’s success. Centrally located in the region, close to other major economies, the emirate has always been popular with businesses and travellers and

Education

Educational ExcellenceIt is only natural that Sharjah should be an internationally-recognised centre of learning.Education is a central and defining feature of Sharjah society. It is a key principle at the core of Arab and Islamic culture and, since the first school opened in the 1950s, Sharjah has been leading the way in the region.

The emirate’s impressive educational infrastructure caters to both boys and girls, from nursery level right through to university. A large number of

internationally-accredited institutions cover a diverse range of curriculums. All educational facilities are regularly inspected and are free to Emiratis.

Facilities are constantly improving and offer students the very best in academic, extra-curricular and sporting opportunities. September 2009 saw the opening of the state-of-the-art American Community School in Sharjah.

The ultra-modern 130,000 sq m campus makes it the largest school in the Middle East. An integrated program that actively addresses the needs of gifted and special needs students is the first of its kind in the UAE. Its opening in Sharjah

proves the emirate’s continuing drive for educational excellence.

The great centre of study is University City, a grand, six-campus statement of educational intent on the outskirts of the city. Magnificent buildings with sweeping lawns, flowerbeds and fountains house colleges affiliated to a number of universities from the UK and the US as well as institutes unique to Sharjah.

There are colleges of law, health, nursing, science and Islamic studies, as well as a college of creative science and an arts college. It also includes Sharjah Police Academy and the Sharjah Library. Equality of standards is emphasised with both a women’s university and technology college.

Sharjah strives to marry the best in international standards with the best of Islamic and Arab heritage to ensure its position as an internationally-renowned educational centre of excellence.

has benefited from its location throughout its history. Being considerably cheaper and keener to welcome investment than elsewhere in the region and having world-class facilities, it is no surprise Sharjah is more popular than ever.

Sharjah has become a leading and growing transport and cargo hub in the region with the expansion of the International Airport and the establishment of Air Arabia, the region’s first low-cost airline which has revolutionised regional air travel. Sharjah has now established itself as a real alternative to the UAE’s other airports.

It has become one of the best ranked airports in the world in cargo operations as well as passenger operations and the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone has been the fastest growing airport free zone in the region. Its facilities and location match up to anywhere else but it is better value and offers more encouragement.

The free zones, at the airport and at Hamriyah, one of three modern sea ports, are the region’s most cost-effective in terms of start-up costs. With state of the art facilities, as well as unparalleled trade incentives, the ports themselves have helped Sharjah be recognised as a major international gateway.

Independent field studies have proved that the cost of industrial investment in Sharjah is 35% less than in any other emirate.

The secret is out. After great infrastructure development, Sharjah is the most exciting of emerging successes, promising secure and substantial growth in all sectors.


FamilyFamily

Al Qasba is an all-day, all-family attraction. There are cafes, restaurants or kiosks open from 08:00 until midnight. Etisalat Eye of the Emirates costs Dhs.30 for adults and Dhs.15 for children.

Family FunSharjah is a fascinating and friendly place for all the family with attractions and activities to suit every age


The heart of Sharjah today is the Al Qasba area and there is so much to do along the kilometre of canal, walkway, and shopping and dining arcade that families often spend an entire day here.

There is always something exciting going on down by the canal. There are festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from Italian food to Chinese lanterns - all done with flair, often fireworks and, occasionally, bouncing stilted clowns.

Parents are as well catered for as the children. The main kids’ play area is immediately overlooked by Bert’s Parisian Café so that the adults can sit with coffee and croissant whilst watching their children play. On the opposite bank of the canal, Caribou Café has seating right in front of the musical fountain.

During the heat of the day, the fountain encourages kids to play. Its dozen jets forming arches of water that children irresistibly run through. Occasionally, with a dramatic soundtrack appearing from nowhere, the fountain jumps into a mesmerising accompanying dance.

The daytime background music is one of birdsong. This is an oasis of a city attraction -

palms and planters so frequent that it can be hard to notice where the garden centre begins at the end of the parade. There are small birds amongst the trees and in the evenings svelte herons fly through, from lagoon to lagoon.

On wheels and in boats, people are also often found dashing between lagoons. Four-wheel bicycles carry entire families right along the canal and the traditional boats, abras, moored alongside are available for rides - a great way to see the surrounding lagoons and cityscape.

The most famous view here is from the 60 metre high Etisalat Eye of the Emirates. This giant Ferris wheel, the biggest in the region, offers amazing views of the entire city. Its air-conditioned cabins opened in 2005 and every April its birthday is celebrated with a stunning firework display. Events regularly celebrate art and culture too. There is always some celebration, from art exhibitions to film screenings, musical events and theatrical performances.

Amongst the parade of galleries, shops, cafes and restaurants, one of the most popular attractions is the photography studio where you

can have your family’s picture taken in full, traditional Arab costume – including accompanying falcon. After dark, in the latest fashions, families come out in force to enjoy the lights and attractions.

By night, Al Qasba becomes an exciting, multi-coloured playground for all ages. The rides and games of the Funpark start up in a whirl of excitable children and neon lights. The fountain erupts in a rainbow of colours and everywhere lights twinkle, from amongst the palms to up in the fast-moving Eye of the Emirates.

Night or day, no trip to Al Qasba is complete without trying the extraordinary ice cream flavours on offer at its many cafes and kiosks. There is amazing Belgian chocolate, exquisite and classical Italian cornets – and then there are those that are funfairs on their own. At Napoli Gelato, the Bubble Gum ice cream comes with marshmallow and Gummi Bears stirred through, the Cookies & Cream with whole, real Oreo cookies. There are exotic cupcakes too; at Sugar Box flavours include rose, date, saffron and lavender. Whatever your favourite flavour, Al Qasba is a fun, exciting and essential experience.


ListingsListings

MuseumsArchaeologySharjah Archaeology Museum06 566 5466Al Abar, near Cultural Square Adults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free9am–1pm & 5pm–8pm, closed Sunday & Friday morning

ArtSharjah Art Museum 06 568 8222Arts Area, Al Shuwaiheen8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Sharjah Caligraphy Museum06 569 4561 Heritage Area, Al SheyoukhAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Heritage & CultureSharjah Hisn (Fort)06 568 5500 Al Bourj AvenueAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free 8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Bait Al Naboodah06 568 1738Heritage Square, Al SheyoukhAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim06 568 0606Heritage Square, Al SheyoukhAdults Dhs.3, Family Dhs.6, Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Al Eslah School Museum06 568 4114Heritage Square, Al SheyoukhAdults Dhs.2, Family Dhs.4, Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Majlis Of Al Midfaa06 568 1738 Heritage Square, Al SheyoukhAdults Dhs.2, Family Dhs.4, Children free 8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Sharjah Maritime Museum06 522 2002Al KhanAdults Dhs.8, Family Dhs.20, Children Dhs.4 8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm, closed Tuesday.

Sharjah Heritage Museum06 568 0006Heritage Square, Al MerraijaAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre Of Gulf Studies06 558 5855MoweilehFree of charge, call before visiting8am–2.30pm, closed Friday & Saturday

Sharjah Museum Of Islamic Civilization 06 565 5455 Al MujarrahAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Al Hisn (Fort)09 277 4442 Corniche Road, Kalba (East Coast)Adults Dhs.2, Family Dhs.4, Children free 9am–1pm & 5pm–8pm

Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamed Al Qassimi09 277 4442Corniche Road, Kalba (East Coast)Adults Dhs.3, Family Dhs.6, Children free Mon 9am–1pm, Fri 5pm–8pm

Natural History & WildlifeSharjah Aquarium06 528 5288Adults Dhs.20, Family Dhs.50, Children Dhs.10, Under 5 freeFriday 3pm–8pm, Saturday–Thursday 8am–7.30pm, closed Tuesday

Sharjah Desert ParkSharjah Natural History Museum06 531 1411

Arabia’s Wildlife Centre06 531 1999

Sharjah Botanical Museum06 531 1411

Children’s Farm06 531 1127

All at Sharjah Desert Park, Sharjah/Al Dhaid Road, Interchange No. 9 (28 kms from Sharjah)Adult Dhs.15, Students & Children Dhs.5, Under 12 free9am–5.30pm, Fri 2pm–5.30pm, Sat 11am–5.30pm, closed Tues

ScienceSharjah Discovery Centre06 558 6577Opposite Sharjah International AirportAdults Dhs.10, Children Dhs.5Sunday – Thursday 8am–2pm, Friday & Saturday 4pm–8pm

Sharjah Science Museum06 566 8777Al Abar, near Cultural SquareAdults Dhs.10, Children Dhs.5Sunday – Thursday 8am–2pm, Friday & Saturday 4pm–8pm

TransportAl Mahatta Museum06 573 3079Next to Al Mahatta Park, Al MahattaAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10,

Children free8am–8pm, Friday 4pm–8pm

Sharjah Old Cars Club & Museum06 558 0058Sharjah/Al Dhaid Road, next to AirportAdults Dhs.5, Family Dhs.10, Children free 9am–2pm & 4pm–9pm, Friday 4pm–9pm

Places To ShopLarge MallsAnsar Mall06 531 3339www.ansarmall.aeDubai/Sharjah Highway, Al NahdaDiscount Centre, clothing, luggage, mobile phones, toys, stationery

Safeer Mall06 531 3366www.safeermall.comDubai/Sharjah Highway, Al NahdaDiscount Centre, Home Mart, Space City for kids

Sahara Centre06 531 6611www.sahara-centre.comAl Nahda Road, Al NahdaDebenhams, THE One, Toys ‘R’ Us, Marks & Spencer, Spinneys, Adventureland, cinemas

Sharjah City Centre06 532 7700www.sharjahcitycenter.comAl Wahda Road, Industrial Area 1Carrefour, Lal’s, Areej, Alltronix, Bhs, Landmark, Sun & Sand Sports, Woolworths, Magic Planet

Sharjah Mega Mall06 574 2574www.sharjahmegamall.comImmigration Road, Bu DanigGrand Stores, Mega Mart, Zara, Mango, Promod, Bhs, La Senza, Antic’s Land, cinemas

Other Shopping CentresAl Fardan Centre06 556 3366 Al Buheirah Corniche, Al MajazMixed retail shops, Treasure Island, Tips & Toes Salon

Al Taawun Mall06 577 7666Al Taawun Road, Al MamzarSpinneys, food court

Crystal Plaza06 574 8888Al Buheirah Corniche, Al MajazMixed retail, pharmacy, restaurants

Rolla CentreAl Arouba Road, Al Ghuwair (Rolla)Kitchen and electrical goods

Rolla Gold MarketAl Arouba Road, Al Ghuwair (Rolla)

Sarah Shopping CentreAl Bourj Avenue, Al ShuwaiheenRetail outlets, fashion jewellery, abbayas, textiles, perfumes

The Gold Centre06 567 8222Al Wahda Road, Yarmook IntersectionGold, jewellery, watches, precious stones

Other Shopping PlacesAdidas Factory Outlet06 556 9889Al Buheirah Corniche, Al MajazAdidas brand sports shoes, clothing, accessories

Lulu Hypermarket06 533 2220Al Wahda Road, Industrial Area 4Department store, café, music shop, supermarket

Al Maya Lals-Bhs Centre06 566 8231Al Wahda Road, Al YarmookAdults’ and children’s clothing

Avenue06 559 6363King Faisal Road, Abu ShagaraAdults’ and children’s clothing, accessories, perfumes, novelties

Baby Shop06 532 2422University City Road, Industrial Area 4Children’s clothes, shoes and toys

Brands For Less06 553 2383Al Wahda Street, Abu ShagaraClothing and accessories

Emax06 555 1112King Faisal Road, Al MajazOver 300 brands and 100,000 electronic products

Home Centre06 556 8899University City Road, Al GhubaibaHome furnishings, linens, gift items

Homes-R-Us06 567 1678University City Road, Al GhubaibaFurniture and home furnishings

Jamil Fashions06 532 5882University City Road, Industrial Area 4Fashion wear and accessories

Lulu Centre06 565 1305Al Arouba Road, Al MujarrahDepartment store, electrical goods, cosmetics, toys, supermarket

Max Retail06 533 2110Al Wahda Street, Industrial Area 1Adults’ and children’s wear

Pan Emirates06 533 0808Industrial Area 4 (behind Toyota)Home furnishings and accessories


ListingsListings

Persian Carpet House & Antiques06 562 5070Al Madfa Road, Al GharbArts, crafts & curios

Sana Fashions06 566 1993University City Road, Al GhubaibaAdults’ & children’s clothing

Shoe Mart06 539 8446University City Road, Al GhubaibaShoes, handbags, accessories

Tanagra Allied Outlet06 572 3700King Faisal Road, Al MajazCrystal, porcelain, silverware, leather goods & cosmetics

Where To EatArabic / Middle EasternAl Bait Al Baghdadi (Iraqi)06 555 1808Jamal Abdel Nasser Street

Al Fawar (Lebanese)06 559 4662King Faisal Road

Al Hailah (Arabic/Afghani)06 574 4104King Faisal Road

Al Nasmah (Arabic)06 522 5100Al Muntazah Road

Al Sadaf (Iranian)06 569 3344Al Merraija Road

Automatic (Lebanese)06 573 6886Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Danial (Iranian)06 574 4668Crystal Plaza

Halab Al Shaba (Syrian)06 568 5940Al Merraija Road

Jabal Lebnan (Lebanese)06 555 7520Jamal Abdel Nasser Street

Omar’s (Egyptian)06 556 6949Al Qasba

Shababeek (Lebanese)06 554 0444Al Qasba

Shahzadeh (Iranian/Moroccan)06 565 7777Radisson Blu Resort

Sharjah Dhow (Lebanese)06 573 0330Khalid Lagoon

Shiraz (Iranian)06 556 6666Millennium Hotel

AsianBangkok Town (Thai)06 556 8282Off Al Buheirah Corniche Road/behind Riviera

Caesars (Indian/Chinese/Iranian)06 575 2877Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Canton Chinese Restaurant (Chinese)06 565 7777Radisson Blu Resort

Chikken Tikka Inn (Indian)06 574 8314Al Qassimia Road

Chin Chin (Chinese)06 559 5689Al Wahda Street

Chinese Food House 06 553 3369Jamal Abdul Nasser Street

Chinese House (Chinese)06 567 1006Al Yarmook Area

Chowking (Chinese)06 572 6636Al Qassimia Road

Gazebo (Indian & Vegetarian)06 553 2299King Faisal Road

India Gate (Indian)06 556 2626Al Khan

Kamat (Indian & Vegetarian)06 559 3323King Faisal Road

Lemongrass (Thai)06 556 5366Al Qasba

Masala Craft (Indian)06 572 3505Al Qasba

Mojo (Thai)06 556 6666Millennium Hotel

Peking Chinese (Chinese)06 567 3666Al Estiqlal Square

Rainbow Steak House(Indian/Multi Cuisine)06 572 3505Al Qassimia Road

Saravana Bhavan(Vegetarian South Indian)06 573 5731King Faisal Road

Sealand (Indian/Chinese)06 556 5955Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Sumo Sushi & Bento(Japanese)06 556 9493Al Qasba

ContinentalAl Dente (Italian)06 522 9999Coral Beach Resort

Bert’s (Contemporary French)06 556 6861Al Qasba

Caesar’s Palace (Italian)06 574 1111Marbella Resort

Luna Rossa (Italian)06 556 0667Al Qasba

Nando’s (Portugese)06 556 6033Al Qasba

Sensi (Italian)06 548 7777Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club

SeafoodAl Sheera (Seafood)06 572 4417King Faisal Road

Casa Samak (International)06 522 9999Coral Beach Resort

Fish Market (Fish & Seafood)06 539 7676Al Wahda Road

Fisherman’s Wharf (Asian)06 573 6666Hotel Holiday International

Sanobar (Lebanese)06 528 3501Al Khan Road

Coffee Shops, Cafés & Confectioners (Internet cafés are found in several shopping malls & spread around town)

1st Ave Café (International)06 575 0007 Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Al Gahwa Al Shahbeya(Emirati)06 572 3788 Khalid Lagoon

Café Undici (Italian)06 574 0175Marbella Resort

Caribou Coffee (American)06 554 0408Al Qasba

Gerard’s (French)06 556 0428Al Qasba

Moulin D’Or (International)06 574 9797Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Starbucks (American)06 556 0572 Al Buheirah Corniche Road / Al Qasba

Bakeries & Middle Eastern Sweet ShopsOn Al Buheirah Corniche and Al Qasba, you will also find Dunkin Donuts, Krispy Kreme Donuts and Baskin Robbins ice cream outlets

Khlas Malaki Dates (Dates)06 573 8383 Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Lebanese Roastery(Middle Eastern)06 559 3505Jamal Abdul Nasser Street

Patchi (Chocolates)06 556 2422 Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Samadi Sweets(Middle Eastern)06 574 3432Al Buheirah Corniche Road

Buffets (Larger hotels and numerous restaurants offer quality buffet lunches)

Al Oudh (International)06 573 9777 Embassy Suites Hotel

Citrus (International)06 556 6666Millennium Hotel

Grand Buffet(Continental/Arabic)06 532 8000 Al Wahda Road

La Croisette(International)06 528 5557Sharjah Grand Hotel

Shawarma & Freshly Squeezed Juices Several roadside stands sell delicious freshly squeezed juices and fruit cocktails, shawarmas, falafels and sandwiches

Foodcourts All the larger malls have foodcourts offering cuisine from around the world

Note: Most hotels and many furnished residences have coffee shops and restaurants.Paying The Bill: Larger restaurants accept credit cards but smaller outlets may require cash payments.Friday: All restaurants and cafés, if not in a hotel, will close during Friday’s prayer time from 11.30 to 13.30.Holy Month Of Ramadan: Restaurants’ opening times will change so that they open just before the evening prayer and close very late.Telephone Numbers are liable to change; if in doubt call Information on 181.

Issue 1 May-July 201033 Issue 1 May-July 2010

InformationUAE Directory 181

Taxi ServicesAirport Taxi 06 508 1143

Al Madina Taxi 06 533 4444

Delta Taxi 06 559 8598

Union Taxi 06 532 5333

AirportSharjah Airport06 558 1111

Flight Enquiries 06 558 1555

Air Arabia 06 558 0000

Useful Numbers

HospitalsAl Kuwaiti Hospital 06 524 2111

Al Qasimi Hospital 06 538 6444

Al Zahra Private Hospital 06 561 9999

Central Private Hospital 06 563 9900

Zulekha Private Hospital 06 565 8866

Emergency Telephone NumbersAmbulance 998-999

Traffic Emergency 06 563 4444

Police 999

Police Headquarters 06 563 1111

Listings

Where To GoActivity ParksAl Jazeera Park06 569 1202Outdoor funfair park and activities on a 100,000 sq.m island (entrance fee Dhs.2–5)Khalid Lagoon

Sharjah Desert Park06 531 1999See Museums section

Sharjah National Park06 558 6170630,000 sq.m park open from 2pm to 6pm weekdays and all day at the weekendsExit 5, Sharjah / Al Dhaid Road

Amusement & Play CentresAdventureland06 531 6363Over 20 rides & attractions, multi level roller-coaster, video games, soft play areaSahara Centre

Antic’s Land06 574 6699Multiple rides including roller-coaster, monorail and video gamesSharjah Mega Mall

Discovery Centre06 558 6577Colourful scientific park full of fun and learning based on various theme areasOpp. Sharjah Airport

Magic Planet06 539 6903Soft play area, video games, billiards and gamesSharjah City Centre

Sky 2406 556 0005Ice rink, bowling alley, billiards,kids soft play area, video gamesAl Durrah Tower

Space City06 531 9933Futuristic theme with 10 main space rides and roller coaster, bumper cars, video gamesSafeer Mall

Treasure Island06 556 4666Jungle theme area for kids up to 8 years of age with bouncy castleAl Fardan Centre

BowlingEwan Hotel (10 lanes)06 528 0111Ewan Hotel

Radisson Blu Resort (6 lanes)06 565 7777Radisson Blu Hotel

Sky 24 (3 lanes)06 556 0005Al Durrah Tower

CinemaGrand Buheirah06 556 3300Al Buheirah Corniche

Grand Megamall06 575 1888Sharjah Mega Mall

Grand Sahara06 531 6500Sahara Centre

Star Cineplex06 532 7555Behind Al Wahda Road

Mashra Al Qasba (Al Qasba)06 556 0777400–seat auditorium, theatrical & cinematic performances in English/Arabic (winter & Ramadan)

Diving & SnorkellingSharjah Wanderers Dive Club06 566 2105Bsac Dive Centre

Chris Chellapermal050 885 3238Padi – Discover East Coast sitesDibba

7 Seas Divers09 238 7400Padi Dive CentreKhor Fakkan

Divers Down Centre, Oceanic Hotel & Resort09 237 0299Padi Dive CentreKhor Fakkan

Emirates Diving Centre06 565 5990 Padi Dive CentreSharjah

Horse RidingSharjah Equestrian & Racing Club06 531 1155Horse racing during the season, desert hacks, pony rides, lessonsExit 6, Sharjah/Al Dhaid Road

Al Awadi Stables050 965 6870 Riding, lessons, desert treks, camping, petting cornerNear Al Dhaid in Al Suhaila

Ice SkatingSharjah Ladies Club06 506 7777 Dhs.35 per hour for non-members with rental of skates (boys must be under 9 years of age)

Sky 2406 556 0005Dhs.15 per hour inc. skate hire

Golf & ShootingSharjah Golf & Shooting Club06 548 7777 9 hole floodlit golf course, 10 indoor shooting ranges, 5 floodlit clay pigeon rangesEmirates Road, near Tasjeel

PaintballingSharjah Golf & Shooting Club050 203 2288, 06 538 3224Fully floodlit paintball park with jungle and savannah playing fields.Emirates Road, near Tasjeel

Spa, Hair & Beauty SalonsThese salons offer many treatments from facials, massages, manicures, nail extensions, pedicures, waxing and threading, Moroccan baths, henna and bridal preparation to haircuts, styling and colouring

Allure06 522 2317Shargan

Amouage06 528 4888Al Khan

Cosmesurge06 524 5444 Al Rifa’ah

Dalouk Spa, Sharjah Ladies Club06 506 7777Al Seef

Elegance06 574 8874Al Qassima

Jennifer06 524 2688 Al Fisht

Moon Beauty06 568 4502Shuwaiheen

Philomena06 572 7881Al Majaz 1

Tips & Toes06 556 0551Al Fardan Centre

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Sharjah Map

Heritage & Arts Area Map

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