Sharjah, the third largest emirate in the UAE, has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the most family-friendly tourist destinations in the region with something exciting for kids and adults alike to discover around every corner. Attractions like Al Montazah, one of the most popular water parks, is a perfect place to enjoy Sharjah weather. There are plenty of indoor attractions for families as well, with museums and nearly every Sharjah mall having a dedicated children’s area. Here is our roundup of some of the best activities to indulge in with the entire family in Sharjah.
Join in the Outdoor Fun in Sharjah
• Sharjah Safari Experience real adventure in the largest safari in the world outside Africa, and enjoy an adventure that takes you to the jungles, here in Sharjah. A rare opportunity for tourists and visitors to observe the endemic wildlife in Africa, native African faunae roam without fences, in an environment similar to their natural habitat. Sharjah Safari is host to more than 120 species of animals, which live in Africa and up to 50,000 animals, ranging from birds, reptiles and mammals; such as lions, elephants, giraffes, black and white rhinoceros, crocodiles, deer, bulls and many other endangered animals.
• Al Montazah
A combination of water park and amusement park that offers hours of fun for all members of the family, Sharjah’s iconic Al Montazah is the venue for a fantastic family day out. It offers go-kart racing, sports facilities, an amusement arcade and an adventure playground as well as exciting water rides and slides and a children’s splash park. The surrounding green space provides the perfect parkland for a picnic with views out over Khalid Lagoon, or try out one of the onsite cafes and restaurants.
Sharjah For Foodie Fanatics
• Al Qasba
Among the most popular places to visit in Sharjah at night, Al Qasba is the complete experience for anyone looking to tour on foot. With pedestrian bridges and a canal-side complex, this destination is sure to inspire fun for everyone.
As a center for arts, the venue features exhibitions and events at the Maraya Art Centre and the Masrah Al Qasba Theatre. During the holidays, the district is especially abuzz with families and travelers coming to witness special performances at one of the busiest Sharjah tourist places. Parents often pick Al Qasba to unwind at a cafe while their children enjoy the musical fountain, frolic at the kids’ fun zone and indoor soft play centre, or choose from the many summer activities for kids. There are also routine abra rides, electric water karts and bikes for hire. Overall, Al Qasba is the ultimate destination for group and family activities in Sharjah.
• Al Majaz Waterfront
As the ultimate destination for family attractions in Sharjah, this waterside destination features mini golf, a splash park, a mini-train and several attractions made for children. In addition to being one of the popular places to go with the family, there are activities here for all types of travellers. Al Majaz Waterfront is the perfect place for dinner with a host of restaurants to choose from and dhow cruise boats sailing by.
Perfect ‘edutainment’ destination
• Al Noor Island
On the northern shores of Khalid Lagoon is Al Noor Island – a beautifully landscaped garden that is home to more than 85 plant species and dotted with modern sculptures. The island’s centrepiece is the Butterfly House, where you can see over 500 exotic butterflies from all over the world. There is also a playground for the kids and the Literature Pavilion, which offers a tranquil, cosy setting to relax or read. At night, brilliantly coloured light installations provide a completely different view of the island. Visit the Butterfly House in the morning to catch a glimpse of new butterflies emerging from their cocoons.
• Sharjah Discovery Centre
Sharjah Discovery Centre offers a great family day out and children of all ages, including toddlers, can explore the many themed areas and experiment and interact with exhibits modelled on daily life. Scenarios such as a supermarket, airport and TV studio enable the youngsters to discover the world around them while teaching them about the biological, physical and technological worlds in a practical way. Other activities include water games, storytelling and a climbing wall. One of the most popular museums in the region, Sharjah Science Museum’s more than 50 interactive exhibits and demonstrations encompass subjects as diverse as aerodynamics, cryogenics, electricity and colour – and all in a fun, informative way. There is also a planetarium and children’s area where kids under five and their parents can learn together and perform scientific experiments.
• Sharjah Classic Cars Museum
This collection of more than 100 classic cars includes many models from Sharjah’s ruler, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s personal collection. The vintage vehicles date back to at least 1979, with highlights including a 1915 Dodge. Exhibiting rare models, luxury brands and military machines, the museum is categorised according to major historical developments in the automotive industry and includes interactive experiments and educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
