10 Things You Didn't Know About Sharjah, Dubai

Sharjah is the second largest emirate of the United Arab Emirates. It was established in 1967 and covers an area of 1,675 square kilometers. The emirate has a population of over 2 million people, which makes it one of the most populous cities in the Middle East.

Sharjah has been able to achieve a remarkable economic growth and become one of the most important economic centers in the region. Its GDP per capita is higher than that of many European countries and even some countries in Asia.

1. Founded

Sharjah was founded by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, who was a descendant of the ruling family of Abu Dhabi.

2. First Mosque

The first mosque was built in 1827 by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi and was named after him as well – Sultan Mosque.

3. First School

The first school opened in 1904 and was called Al-Islah School (Reform School). It was established by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi and his wife Sheikha Fatima bint Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, who also founded the first library in Sharjah which was named after her – The Sheikha Fatima Library for Women’s Studies and Research Development Centre (SFLRDC).

4. Famous Artists

Sharjah has been home to many famous artists including painter Lucio Fontana, architect Zaha Hadid and composer Maurice Jarre who wrote the theme tune for the film Lawrence of Arabia.

5. Extensive Road Network

The city has an extensive road network that serves all areas of the emirate including major highways such as Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street and Khalid Bin Sultan Street that connects it with other cities in the UAE such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah via Al Dhaid Road.

6. Sharjah Airport

Sharjah Airport is located in Darawasimah area south of Sharjah City Centre on King Abdul Aziz Road (20km from the city centre). The airport handles both passenger and cargo flights from all over the world with regular flights to destinations such as London Heathrow Airport (UK), Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Netherlands) and Doha International. Rent cheapest rent a car in sharjah now.

7. Sharjah's history

Sharjah's history dates back to pre-Islamic times, when it was known as Julfar, or Ilfar in Arabic. The word "sharjah" means "sand", referring to the sand dunes that once covered the area now occupied by modern-day Sharjah City.

8.Sharjah's location

Sharjah's location on the southeastern coast of the UAE has made it an ideal centre for trade for centuries. It was an important settlement for people travelling along one of three major trade routes between India and Europe: one route went through Egypt; another went through Mesopotamia; and a third went through Iran into Russia via Turkey (and hence also referred to as "The Silk Road").

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Sharjah?

The best time to visit Sharjah is during spring or autumn because the weather is cooler and dryer than summer or winter. The summers can be extremely hot and humid, especially at night, so it's best to avoid visiting during this season if possible. You should also avoid visiting during Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar) when many businesses close early due to religious restrictions.

How long does it take to drive from Dubai to Sharjah?

It takes around two hours by car from Dubai City Centre to Sharjah City Centre depending on traffic conditions. If you're driving on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road towards Abu Dhabi, then you'll pass through Al Qassimia Street which leads directly into Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Street where most intercity buses.

What is the weather like in Sharjah?

The weather in Sharjah varies from month to month, but generally speaking you will find that the summers are hot and humid while winters are cooler and drier. The best time to visit is between October and March when temperatures are milder.