Picture walking along narrow streets, past old houses with wooden doors and wind towers, where spices fill the air. This is what awaits you in the Heart of Sharjah, a unique setting that transports you back to the way life was in Sharjah in the 1950s.
This beautiful area is part of a big project to protect and restore Sharjah’s old town, keeping its culture and history preserved for future generations. It is expected to become one of the largest heritage sites in the Arabian Gulf region and will be fully completed by 2025.
- What Is the Heart of Sharjah Project?
- Aims and Objectives
- Things to Do
- How to Get There
- Why Visit Heart of Sharjah
- FAQs
What Is the Heart of Sharjah Project?
Heart of Sharjah is a five-phase plan initiated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). It collaborates with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, the Sharjah Museums Department, and the Sharjah Art Foundation.
The project is designed to revive the old city and bring it back to its original form and feel of the 1950s. This involves old markets (souqs), traditional houses, forts, and schools.
Aims and Objectives of the Heart of Sharjah Project
This project reflects Sharjah’s commitment to celebrating and protecting its identity while still growing into a modern, creative city.
- Preserve History: Restore and protect old buildings and landmarks from Sharjah’s past.
- Revive Traditional Life: Show visitors what life was like in Sharjah during the 1950s.
- Promote Culture and Tourism: Convert the area into a top cultural destination for locals and international tourists.
- Support Art and Heritage: Offer space for local artists, museums, and events to grow and shine.
- Educate People: Help residents and visitors learn about Emirati traditions and lifestyle.
- Blend the Old with the New: Keep the charm of the past while offering modern facilities like cafés, shops, and exhibition spaces.
- Gain Global Recognition: Work toward becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to Do at the Heart of Sharjah
There’s plenty to discover and have fun when you come to the Heart of Sharjah. Whether you’re coming with your family or on your own, here are the best things you can do in Sharjah:
1. Visit Al Hisn Fort
Begin your journey by visiting Al Hisn Fort, one of the city’s oldest and most significant structures. It is a museum where you can see old pictures and weapons, and discover Sharjah’s history and rulers. Striding through its sturdy walls and towers gives you a genuine sense of living in the past.
Timings
- Saturday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm
- Friday: 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm
2. Traditional Souqs for Shopping
If shopping for quirky things and souvenirs fascinates you, the vintage souqs of the Heart of Sharjah are the ideal spot:
Souq Al Shanasiyah
This is one of the oldest souqs in Sharjah and was rebuilt on its original site. You can buy handmade crafts, perfumes, Emirati attire, antiques, dates, and much more.
Souq Al Arsah
This peaceful and picturesque market seems like a trip back in time. Tiny shops sell traditional gifts, wooden goods, silver jewellery, and Arabic sweets.
Both souqs are excellent places to purchase gifts and experience a little of the old Emirati shopping culture.
3. Discover Historic Homes
Walk through elegantly restored homes that demonstrate how people lived decades past:
Bait Al Naboodah
This is a big house owned by a prosperous pearl trader. It is constructed with coral stones and has an open-air courtyard. Inside, you will find traditional furniture, carved wooden doors and exhibits that display the family’s history.
Al Eslah School Museum
Stop by the first school in Sharjah, now converted into a museum. You will find old classrooms and teaching instruments, and learn about how education started in the emirate.
4. Experience Art and Culture Festivals
The Heart of Sharjah is also renowned for hosting the most significant traditional festivals. You can explore the culture and heritage of UAE here.
Sharjah Biennial
Sharjah Biennial is one of the largest international art festivals to visit in the UAE. Held every two years, this large-scale exhibition brings together artists, curators, and art lovers around the world.
Sharjah Heritage Days
Sharjah Heritage Days is a lively, family-friendly festival that brings the traditions and customs of the UAE to life. It is one of the best annual events in Sharjah, celebrating Emirati culture in its most authentic form.
Art Exhibitions by Sharjah Art Foundation
The Sharjah Art Foundation is based in the Heart of Sharjah and plays a big role in making the district a centre for creativity and modern culture. Throughout the year, it organises rotating exhibitions that feature works by local and international artists.
5. Eat and Relax at Local Cafés
Walking around can get you hungry, and fortunately, there are some excellent places to eat and unwind within the Heart of Sharjah, including:
- Ratios Coffee
- Arabian Teahouse
- La Bottega De Gelato
How to Get There
The Heart of Sharjah is located just off the Corniche, in the centre of the city. It’s about 20 minutes by car from Sharjah International Airport. You can get there easily by car, taxi or even on a guided walking tour.
Address
Corniche Street, Al Mareija, Sharjah, UAE
Why Visit Heart of Sharjah
The Heart of Sharjah is not just a tourist destination. It’s where you can:
- Learn about Emirati history and culture.
- Enjoy local art, food, and music.
- Shop for traditional things.
- Feel what life was like before.
FAQs
Most parts of the Heart of Sharjah are free to visit, especially the public spaces, shops, and souqs. However, some museums or special exhibitions may charge a small entry fee.
The timings of the retail outlets and cafes in the heart ofthe Sharjah project are:
Retail outlets
-Saturday to Thursday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
-Friday: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Cafes and Restaurants
-Sunday to Wednesday: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
-Thursday to Saturday: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Yes! The Heart of Sharjah is a great destination for families, with kid-friendly attractions, interactive museums, traditional games, and cultural workshops.
Yes! During major events or through local tour operators, you can join guided walking tours that take you through the historical and cultural highlights of the district.
If you’re travelling to the UAE, don’t miss an opportunity to visit the Heart of Sharjah. Whether you want to explore the history, culture, food, or art, there’s something unique here for each of you.
Besides that, you can also explore more future projects in Sharjah at the Property Finder Blog.
