SHARJAH CULTURAL TOUR
Sharjah is one of the most strikingly authentic and unique emirates of the 7. A cultural hub, one which ranges from traditional souqs and captivating museums on the west, to mountains, wadis, and towns on the east.
Our wandering journey together begins with an early pick-up from your hotel(s) where we’ll meet on an empty stomach. That’s because our Sharjah itinerary begins with a delicious light Middle Eastern breakfast at one of my favorite Palestinian restaurants where you would normally find my family and I on a non-touring Friday.
From there, we’ll head to Sharjah’s Rain Room, an immersive art installation where your senses are heightened as you walk through this downpour of rain in a dark room without (kind of) getting wet.
From there, we’ll head to Bait Al Naboodah, a mid 19th century home that belonged to a famous pearl merchant. His home, now a museum, is an introduction to Sharjah’s history as one of the largest pearl exporters in the world. It also showcases the traditional architectural designs and building materials used in the past, and lifestyle of its inhabitants. Nearby we’ll see a old souk (market) which pulses with the hum of its vendors and is where you’ll find glittering rows of shops dedicated to authentic Bedouin jewelry and local trinkets among others. After an induction to coffee making, we’ll then change scenery completely as we embark on a 1.5 hour drive to the east coast town of Khorfakkan.
This is where we’ve been invited to enter the home of our lovely Emirati host, who will introduce us to the local culture, perfumery, national dress, and cuisine. We’ll sit down on the floor in a traditional majlis (sitting room) and indulge in a gastronomic feast which she has skillfully prepared for us, with local ingredients and heirloom Emirati recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation.
After enjoying her warm Emirati hospitality and satiating our bellies with both savory and sweet dishes, we’ll make sure to stop for a few photo snaps of Khorfakkan’s waterfall and Roman amphitheater, before we make our way to our last and final stop, the magnificent Sharjah Mosque.
Our walk there begins within the Ottoman inspired mosque complex, discussing the role of Islam in architecture and the basic elements required. We’ll marvel at its marble columns and explore the stunning interior of the mosque, particularly its magnificent central dome and chandelier, as well as its exquisite tilework. Finally, we’ll wander in its gardens and reflective pools as we watch the sun set promising a new dawn. That’s when our journey will take us back to Dubai, a 30 min ride away.
Please note that visitors should dress modestly in Sharjah avoiding sleeveless and short clothing.
Price: Adults (12 y/o+): AED 735 per person. All prices include UAE VAT.
Duration: Approx. 10 hours including transport time for pick-up and drop-off and all the in-betweens. Days: Sundays. Timings: Pick-up from select* Dubai hotels will be between 7:30 and 8:00. To be confirmed one day before the tour. Check the form below for availability. (Email me if the date or timing does not work for you. We’ll work something out!).
*Please note that for guests staying at further hotels in the Palm Jumeirah, Al Maha Resort, or Bab Al Shams among other further locations, an alternative nearby meeting location will be shared by email.
Number of wanderers: I will accommodate up to 10 wanderers in 1 tour. The minimum no. of guests is 4. (Have a bigger group or corporate event? Let me know here!).
When: Available on select days of the week. Check the form below for tour availability.
Where: Pick-up and drop-off will be made to the select Dubai hotel addresses entered when completing the booking.
Transportation: This tour includes bus or van transportation from/to the select hotels. I will provide you with estimated pick-up timings upon confirmation.
Changes and Cancellation Policy: Please review in full here.
FAQs including COVID-19 tour guidelines: Please review in full here.
Tour: A 10 hours journey to the emirate of Sharjah. Includes transportation, breakfast, admission fees to all attractions listed in itinerary including Rain Room and Bait Al Naboodah, private lunch and cultural session at an Emirati host’s home, and access to Sharjah Mosque.
Guide: A fantastic tour with a local guide who's happy to show you around the city and answer all your questions.
Meals: The tour includes both breakfast (all vegetarian) and lunch, as well as bottled water on board the bus.
Haggling Tips: A few tips and tricks on how to haggle for your souvenirs.
My 2 fils: From the time of booking until the return home, I will be happy and available to provide any recommendations or general help for your stay here.
Want to book the tour? Excellent decision! Please fill in the form and I’ll get back to you ASAP.
Have an extra day?
Check out tours to the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi! Explore the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on a half-day tour OR a full-day tour Abu Dhabi Cultural Tour.