The famous malls in the UAE featuring international brands are the go-to stops for most people. For those looking for a budget-friendly and authentic shopping experience, the souks in Sharjah are the best option. These markets are perfect for finding everything from daily necessities to local clothing, handicrafts, and gold. Let’s explore some of the best souks in Sharjah to make the most of your visit.
- Best Sharjah Souks to Visit
- Blue Souk (Central Souk)
- Souk Al Arsah
- Souk Al Bahar
- Souk Alshanasiyah
- Souk Al Jubail
- Oud Al Fadhi Trading
- Al Arooj Silver Trading LLC
- Souk Saqr
- FAQs
Best Sharjah Souks to Visit
Those visiting or residing in Sharjah must visit its souks to experience the charm of traditional Middle Eastern markets. Here’s a curated list of the best Sharjah souk:
1. Blue Souk (Central Souk)
The Blue Souk, also known as Central Souk in Sharjah, is perhaps the most famous souk inthe emirate. The blue tiles used in Sharjah’s Arabic-style buildings accounted for the souk’s name. It is home to over 600 stores, selling clothing, fabrics, jewellery, perfumes, electronics and souvenirs.
Even though it is Sharjah’s most popular souk, it still retains its traditional atmosphere with narrow lanes, streets and kiosks. Such features give a glimpse into Sharjah’s cultural heritage.
Location
King Faisal Street, Al Majaz 1, Al Majaz, Sharjah,UAE
Timings
09:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Sunday-Monday)
Contact
+971 6 556 6777
2. Souk Al Arsah
Established in the 19th century, Souk al Arsah is one of the oldest souks in the UAE. As it was declared a heritage by the government of Sharjah, the original architecture is maintained. If you’re interested in history and traditional goods, this is the place to be. The shops offer traditional goods, including:
- Handicrafts
- Handmade rugs
- Carpets
- Antiques
- Souvenirs
- Fresh spices and herbs
Location
Al Sharq Street, opposite Old Souk, Al Shuwaiheen, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
Open 24 Hours
Contact
+971 800 80000
3. Souk Al Bahar
This market offers traditional and modern facilities along with state-of-the-art architecture. Given its proximity to Sharjah Corniche, it offers views of the Arabian Gulf. It features about 100 stores selling gadgets, jewellery, accessories, fragrances and other products. In addition to shopping, you can enjoy a cinema, play area and a variety of restaurants.
Location
Al Shuwaiheen, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
08:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Sunday-Monday)
4. Souk Alshanasiyah
Souk Alshanasiyah is another heritage site, declared by the Sharjah government, ensuring its preservation as well. Its wooden doors and coral-stoned buildings date back to the 19th century. Fresh goods, including fish, fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, spices and herbs are sold here, making it a popular option among locals and tourists.
Location
Al Merijah, Corniche Street, Al Shiokh, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
- 10:00 AM -10:00 PM (Saturday-Thursday)
- 04:00 PM -11:00 PM (Friday)
Contact
+971 6 511 2555
5. Souk Al Jubail
Souk Al Jubail is one of the best souks in Sharjah. It offers a mixture of traditional and modern architecture. It is well-known for its fresh produce, meat, fish and fruits.
Souk Al Jubail also features stores that sell aromatic, freshly ground herbs and spices. If you’re looking for the freshest ingredients for your kitchen, this is the place to go.
Location
Opposite Al Jubail Bus Station, Corniche Street, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
- 07:30 AM -10:30 PM (Saturday-Thursday)
- 07:30 AM -11:30 PM and 01:10 PM –10:30 PM (Friday)
Contact
+971 6 544 4434
6. Oud Al Fadhi Trading
For lovers of traditional Arabic fragrances, Oud Al Fadhi Trading in Sharjah is a must-visit. They offer high-quality Oud and bakhoor which can be used as aromatherapy in home decor.
You can get a range of spices and herbs like rose petals, sandals, saffron, and cardamom. They also have vendors for Henna, traditional organic makeup and cosmetics, and skin care products.
Location
Al Shioukh, Old Souq, Souq Al Qadeem, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
09:00 AM -11:30 PM (Monday-Sunday)
7. Al Arooj Silver Trading LLC
If you’re in the market for jewellery, Sharjah’s gold and silver souks are the perfect destination. As one of the famous Sharjah’s souks, Al Arooj Silver Trading offers a stunning range of traditional and modern jewellery designs. From silver pieces to gold ornaments, you’re sure to find something unique.
Location
Gold Souk, Shop no:19, Bridge no 2, Central Market, King Faisal Street, Al Majaz 1, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
- 10:00 AM -11:00 PM (Saturday- Thursday)
- 04:30 PM -11:00 PM (Friday)
Contact
+971 50 497 7536
8. Souk Saqr
Souk Saqr, with its old buildings and wooden doors, has historic significance. It is a great place to shop for local and traditional products like clothes, handicrafts and souvenirs. Also, fresh produce like fruits, vegetables, fish, seafood, meat and poultry are also sold in Souk Saqr.
Location
Rolla Souk Saqr, Al Shuwaiheen, Sharjah, UAE
Timings
09:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Sunday-Monday)
Contact
+971 52 443 3556
FAQs
Yes. Most Sharjah souks are open seven days a week from as early as 08:00 AM till 11:00 PM. The opening times may vary on public holidays.
Yes, bargaining is common in Sharjah’s souks, and it is encouraged. This is because bargaining is a traditional way of doing business in souks, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best price.
The souks in Sharjah offer a unique experience for tourists and visitors. Many of them hold traditional and heritage importance according to the Sharjah government.
So, whether you’re just window shopping or want to buy something traditional, Sharjah souks are the place to go. Get your shopping mode on, polish your bargaining skills, and head over to any of these souks!
Besides, if you want to shop for gold, you can also head over to the famous Gold Souk in Dubai.
