The House of Wisdom is an aptly named place where you go to acquire knowledge. This cultural centre has a serene, bright, and contemporary interior design with a touch of nature through the beautiful indoor plants. It’s the perfect place to spend time between the arms of books or to build up talents like astrophotography. So, here are all the things to discover about House of Wisdom Sharjah in this inclusive guide.
House of Wisdom Overview
Foster and Partners, an award-winning architectural company, established the House of Wisdom Centre. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi commissioned this project as he is a member of the Supreme Council of the UAE. The idea of building the centre was due to Sharjah winning the title of “World Book Capital” in 2019 by UNESCO.
The House of Wisdom creates many programs and activities in addition to offering both book tours and membership cards. Here’s everything you want to know about it, starting from location.
Location
Many people are unsure where is the House of Wisdom located exactly. In fact, its location is considered one of its perks. The House of Wisdom UAE is located in Sharjah, specifically in the Juraina 1 area. The centre is close to the famous E88 Road by a minute. Take a closer look at its exact location on Google Maps:
Nearby Communities and Attractions
It’s important to discover the nearest communities and attractions to the House of Wisdom. The following is what surrounds this special place:
Nearby Communities
Imagine having the luxury of having an amazing place like the House of Wisdom nearby! Check out the nearest communities:
- Al Rifaa: 11 minutes away
- Al Talaa: 10 minutes away
- Almowaihat 3: 9 minutes away
- Al Nuaimia 1: 10 minutes away
Nearby Attractions
There are many important attractions, and people get to enjoy visiting these places. And they also find some of them important. Such as:
- Sharjah International Airport: 15 minutes away
- American University of Sharjah: 16 minutes away
- Sharjah National Park: 14 minutes away
- Grand Mall: 15 minutes away
Working Hours
The House of Wisdom is open daily. But the working hours differ during the weekends. Here are the opening hours:
- 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sunday – Thursday)
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Friday – Saturday)
Contact Information
If you want to join one of the facilities and benefit from the programs. You can call this number for any inquiry:
- +971 6 594 0000
Facilities & Programmes
Sharjah is known for embracing one of the best educational institutions in the UAE. It was titled the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World” in 1998. In 2014, it was named the “Capital of Islamic Culture”. Additionally, in 2015, it gained the name “Capital of Arab Tourism” after its remarkable recognition.
From nurseries in Sharjah to British schools to the University of Sharjah, this Emirate never fails to impress regarding education and reflecting culture. So here are the facilities that the House of Wisdom provides:
French Lessons
The centre offers a 9-week programme to learn both the French language and culture. But what distinguishes this programme from any other? The answer lies in the activities they provide. For instance, you can catch a real and live French band playing French music. Also, you can join the “La Parisienne” workshop to learn classical French bread baking. In short words, it’s one of a one-of-a-kind educational and enjoyable experience.
- Ages: 6+ years old
- Fees: AED 300 per term
Astrophotography
It has become easy to express our skills and creativity by sharing them on social media. Many learn to be professional photographers to develop these skills and engage with the audience. But adding beauty to photography attracts more attention, especially a beauty resembling astronomy!
Astrophotography is a unique experience that teaches you to handle colours and lighting, specifically in dim places. It’s also a way to discover the astronomical world and share these discoveries in your portfolio.
- Requirements:
- Beginner level photography
- DSLR camera
- A tripod
- Age: 18+ years old
- Fees: AED 50
Loom Weaving
Loom Weaving is an unusual yet very amusing thing to learn. In this House of Wisdom workshop, participants will learn the basics of hand-weaving. They will learn to create woven fabric artwork on their own.
- Age: 10+ years old
- Fees: AED 350
Floral Cake Decoration
The Floral Cake Decoration workshop is for participants who enjoy baking and creating cake designs. However, this workshop teaches how to create cakes with flower designs only. They are suitable for sweet occasions, which will definitely make them more special.
- Age: 16+ years old
- Fees: AED 300
Children Book Club (English and Arabic)
The Book Club aims to encourage children to use their imagination and learn from storytelling. This activity is for children from different countries. Also, the stories are narrated in both English and Arabic.
- Fees:
- Per day: AED 50
- Per week: AED 200
House of Wisdom Library
If you look at the pictures of the House of Wisdom or have the chance to visit it, you will know why it’s the main attraction. The two-story library has thousands of books and seating areas. The glass walls overlook the outer garden, which adds another value to the place. Each month, readers gather to discuss the chosen book by the House of Wisdom book club. It is truly an enriching and educational experience that must not be missed.
Dining
If you want to spend the entire day at the House of Wisdom. Then, you would want to find a place to grab a bite or to enjoy a beverage. The place offers both a restaurant and a cafe. Which are:
Chie Restaurant
Chie Restaurant serves delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu includes many recipes, such as Shakshouka, French Toast, Quinoa Salad, Truffle Wagyu Burger, Dynamite Shrimp, and others. In addition, it overlooks the stunning view and has a calm atmosphere.
- Working hours:
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sunday – Thursday)
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Friday – Saturday)
- Contact Details: +971 6 594 0090
Frame Café
The cafe is one of the great places to study while enjoying a hot or cold beverage. It also serves snacks like pastries and sandwiches. Moreover, the cafe has various seating options, including chairs and sofas, to ensure you stay comfortable while working or studying.
- Working hours:
- 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sunday – Thursday)
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Friday – Saturday)
FAQ
Does the House of Wisdom offer memberships?
Yes, you can choose a “standard membership”, which allows you to borrow 15 books for 15 days and have access to resources. The membership is AED 400 per year, and it’s AED 350 for students.
Which bus line passes by House of Wisdom?
The closest bus line to House of Wisdom is E400.
Another option is to choose premium membership, which allows you to borrow 20 books in 21 days, with access to resources, special events, and activities. The premium membership costs AED 800 annually and AED 640 for students.
We presented you with a guide to the House of Wisdom in Sharjah. If you enjoy cultural places and want to read something similar. You might be interested in Saadiyat Island Museums and other articles on Property Finder blog.
