Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE, has a rich tradition of enthusiasm for education, learning and intellectual growth. From state-of-the-art university libraries to historically valuable public libraries and visionary knowledge centres, the emirate offers a vibrant library environment that serves all ages, interests, and professions.
- Sharjah Public Library
- House of Wisdom
- Khor Fakkan Public Library
- Kalba Public Library
- Dibba Al Hisn Public Library
- University of Sharjah Library
- American University of Sharjah Library
- FAQs
Top Libraries in Sharjah
Living in Sharjah means being part of a vibrant network of libraries that provide a mix of tradition, innovation, and community education. The following are some of the Emirates’ most sought-after libraries:
1. Sharjah Public Library
Sharjah Public Library is a key pillar in the emirate’s drive to advance reading, education, and knowledge sharing among its people. Initially set up to encourage intellectual curiosity, the library now provides a range of resources from books and references to scientific journals and audio-visual aids.
Beyond physical resources, it has embraced the digital transformation with an electronic portal that enables members to borrow books and use online databases. Its cultural importance is increased as it helps preserve local history and provides global awareness through curated collections and community programs.
You’re free to explore the library’s facilities and resources without registering—membership is only required when you wish to borrow books.
Location
Cultural Square, Al Abar, Halwan
Contact Information
+971-6-516-6888
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 10:00 am
2. House of Wisdom
The House of Wisdom is not only a library, it’s a symbol of Sharjah’s cultural renaissance. Architecturally designed by Foster + Partners and inaugurated in 2020, it was constructed to celebrate Sharjah’s status as the UNESCO World Book Capital 2019. With its futuristic architecture and community-focused spaces, the building provides a next-generation learning experience.
Knowledge is not confined to bookshelves here—the library’s design promotes interaction, innovation, and experimental learning through multimedia resources. Others include maker spaces, galleries, and beautiful reading gardens.
| Membership Type | Price | Access |
| Digital Membership | AED 200 /year AED 178 for Students | Access to all e-resources only |
| Standard Membership | AED 400 /year, AED 320 for Students, and the Sharjah employees | Borrow up to 12 books at a timeAccess to all e-resources |
| Premium Membership | AED 800 /yearAED 640 for Students and Sharjah employees | Borrow up to 20 books at a timeAccess to all e-resources |
Location
Al Juraina 1
Contact Information
+971-6-594-0000
Timings
Monday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm
Friday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 12:00 am
3. Khor Fakkan Public Library
Located in the towering Hajjar Mountains and peaceful Khor Fakkan Bay, this library shows Sharjah’s dedication to decentralising knowledge. Established in 1989, it serves a thriving coastal community and is renowned for its collection, which appeals to both young readers and experienced scholars.
Apart from its collection, the library’s strategic location in a tourism-based city makes it a cultural hub for tourists, offering an interesting mix of education and entertainment.
Location
Al Mudeife 5
Contact Information
+971-9-238-6900
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
4. Kalba Public Library
Located in Sharjah’s scenic exclave along the Gulf of Oman, the Kalba Public Library has served as a beacon of knowledge since 1989. Built with the support of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, it reflects the emirate’s vision of making education available to everyone, even in geographically inaccessible locations.
Despite serving a relatively small population, Kalba Library is a cultural cornerstone in the region. It plays an active role in educational development by offering a space where students and citizens can immerse themselves in reading, research, and lifelong learning.
Location
Huteen, Sharjah
Contact Information
+971-9-277-8631
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
5. Dibba Al Hisn Public Library
This library is situated within one of the most historically significant areas of the UAE. Established since 2003, it continues to provide heaps of knowledge to the people who call it home, encouraging reading in an area shaped by tradition and heritage.
It offers resources for the community and helps make education accessible to everyone in the emirate.
Location
Hay Al Doob, Sharjah
Contact Information
+971-9-244-1799
Timings
Sunday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: Off
Popular University Libraries in Sharjah
In addition to its thriving public and cultural libraries, Sharjah also has libraries in some of the UAE’s top universities and colleges. Although primarily accessible to students, faculty, and researchers, these libraries are well-known for their cutting-edge facilities and vast academic collections.
1. University of Sharjah Library
The University of Sharjah Library is one of the largest academic libraries in the country. It is a centrepiece of scholarly life on campus. It offers thousands of print and digital resources across all disciplines, as well as quiet study zones, research support services, and specialised labs to support student and faculty research.
Location
University of Sharjah, University City
Contact Information
+971-6-505-7161
Timings
Monday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 01:00 am
Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 am 10:00 pm
2. American University of Sharjah Library
Renowned for its beautiful architecture and high-tech infrastructure, the AUS Library serves as a knowledge hub for one of the UAE’s top-ranked universities. With access to global databases, extensive reference collections, and expert library staff, it provides invaluable support to students pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies.
Location
American University of Sharjah, University City
Contact Information
+971-6-515-2252
Timings
- Monday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 12:00 am
- Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
FAQs
Yes! Most libraries, especially the Sharjah Public Library and university libraries, provide digital lending services. Members can access e-books, journals, and databases through their online portals.
University libraries, such as those at the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah, are generally restricted to students, faculty, and researchers. However, they may occasionally host public events, lectures, or exhibitions open to external visitors.
Yes! Sharjah boasts a variety of cultural landmarks, including the House of Wisdom and The Flying Saucer, which provide immersive environments for learning, creativity, and community engagement.
Sharjah’s libraries are more than just places with books; they reflect the emirate’s strong love for knowledge, culture, and community. Whether you’re a student, researcher, young reader, or simply someone seeking inspiration, there’s a library in Sharjah for you.
