Airports, airlines and accommodation
Sharjah international airport is the major airport that facilitates the arrival and departure of international travelers. There are several airlines that offer travel from India to Sharjah, some of them include Air Arabia, IndiGo, GoAir, Vistara etc.
Sharjah has many luxurious as well as affordable hotels and accommodations. If you are looking for luxury and comfort some of the hotels that you must check out include The Act Hotel Sharjah, Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort and Spa, Pullman Sharjah, Hotel Sharjah, Centro- Sharjah by Rotana etc.
The average cost for a solo trip to Sharjah from India would cost around INR 90,000 to INR 1,00,000.
Sites in Sharjah you wouldn’t wanna miss!
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Dive into the roots of Arab and Islamic culture at the massive and beautiful Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Visit this mesmerizing place to know more about the rituals of Islamic people, artefacts, textiles and much more.
The Museum has two floors that exhibit various cultural and historical items.On the ground floor, you will find the scientific accomplishments of Islamic people in fields like astronomy and Mathematics, along with the significance of hajj. While on the upper floor you will find galleries that exhibit a timeline of 1400 years old art and artefacts of Islamic culture.
Sharjah Art foundation
If you want to get stunned by the variety of artworks you must visit Sharjah Art Foundation. It is one of the best places to see in Sharjah that offers platforms for contemporary artists in the world. The Sharjah Art foundation allows artists from around the globe to showcase their works in the exhibitions held over here.
You can also stroll in this cluster of old and new buildings with your family and enjoy some of the masterpieces by different artists around the world. If interested you can also take part in the programs held especially for art lovers.
Sharjah Desert Park
For nature lovers, this is a marvellous site to visit in Sharjah. The Sharjah Desert park covers a vast area containing three parts, one is the Children’s Farm, the second is the Arabian Wildlife Centre and the third is the Natural History Museum.
The Park not only allows you to get a better understanding of flora and fauna but also gives a scientific explanation about the natural processes in various fun and entertaining ways. The Children’s farm allows children to interact with and feed the animals present there.
Al Quasba
Al Quasba is located right at the heart of Sharjah. It is the perfect place to relax and spend some quality time with your kids and family. The beautiful place offers various options like entertainment zones, some fine dining restaurants and the Kids Fun Zone.
You can enjoy numerous activities here such as theatres, Abra rides, the musical fountain, Kids Fun Zone, and also the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates Ferris Wheel from where you can enjoy the beautiful scenic view. While exploring and enjoying this beautiful place you will feel very close to Arabian culture as there are so many restaurants and retail outlets available in this place.
Sharjah Aquarium
One of the most beautiful places in Sharjah is the Sharjah Aquarium where you can visit with your family and enjoy a wide range of marine life. While exploring this engaging unseen deep sea world, you will also be able to have a close look at the local fish species and learn about the history of Sharjah’s coasts and ports.
There are more than 100 different species in this beautiful aquarium that you can enjoy watching.
The Blue Souk
It is a must-visit place in Sharjah to get some souvenirs for your loved ones or to get the feel of an Arabian Bazaar. The Blue Souk will allow you to shop like locals and get heavy discounts if bargained right.
There are more than 600 shops in this market which are divided into two sections with one being completely devoted to expensive jewellery while in other you will find all sorts of carpets, textiles, antiques and also electronics.
Sharjah National Park
Spread over a humongous area of around 630000 sq meters, Sharjah Park is one of the major tourist attractions. It is one of the most amazing places in Sharjah that needs to be on your list as it has various attractive places and amenities to watch out for.
You can enjoy and experience the unique architecture as the whole place is designed in a way that showcases similarities between traditional Arab architecture and present-day European styles.
Al Majaz Waterfront
Enjoy your beautiful evening while strolling inside the massive and amazing Al Majaz Waterfront. It is one of the best places to visit in Sharjah as it has various attractions and activity areas which even attracts the locals of emirates to enjoy.
The beautiful musical fountain, play areas for kids, or one of the most eco-friendly jogging tracks in all of UAE that is made from over 6000 recycled tyres. Take the train to enjoy the beauty of the whole waterfront with your family or enjoy different events that are hosted here around the year.
Delicacies of Sharjah
Some of the best restaurants in Sharjah include Kamat and Kings Grill. Kamat is an award-winning restaurant in Sharjah that serves authentic vegetarian dishes. It has a very nice decor and luxurious ambience. It ranks as one of the highest-rated restaurants in Sharjah.
Another fine dining restaurant in Sharjah is King’s Grill. It comes for spacious set-up, decent crowd and mouth-watering Asian and European delicacies. It is one of the most visited Indian buffet restaurants in Sharjah. It is located within the Ramada Hotel, famous for tangy curries, biriyani, grilled meat and desserts.
Samak is another fine dining option in Sharjah. This is one of the best restaurants in Sharjah. It offers an unmatched view of the Arabian Gulf and the perfect ambience for a romantic dinner. Some exotic must-try dishes include Fatayer, a pocket-like pie filled with a variety of fillings, from meat to cheese or spinach.
Hummus, a popular dish of the middle east region that is served along with a variety of dishes. It is made with chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and salt. It is creamy, light, and flavourful! It can be used as a dip or spread. A mezze platter consists of a variety of dishes served with Arabic bread as an appetizer. Items usually served in a mezze are hummus, tahini, baba ghannouj, salads such as tabouleh, kebabs, cheese, nuts, and pickles.
Tabouleh is a treat for vegetarians. It is a refreshing salad made with cracked wheat, parsley, onions, tomatoes and seasoned well with olive oil and lemon juice. Perfect for a hot summer day. Any meal is incomplete without dessert. Umm Ali is a sweet dish, made with milk, puff pastry and dry fruits, and is like a local version of the bread pudding.
Family-friendly activities!
There are many sites and activities you can enjoy while having a vacation with your family in Sharjah.
Visit Sharjah Fort or Al Hisn as it is known, was locally built-in 1820 by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi. The exhibitions inside the fort give a good introduction to the history of Sharjah. Children will love exploring the battlements whilst mum and dad enjoy the atmospheric surroundings.
Islamic museum of art offers enlightening collection and an insight into the history and culture of Islamic civilisations. Located in a former souk, the museum is vast by UAE standards. It has a well thought out layout and clear interpretation as well as fun interactive displays in some galleries.
The Abu Bakr Gallery on the ground floor explains the Five Pillars of Islam offering an excellent introduction to the religion to those with little prior knowledge. The Ibn Al Haitham Gallery, on the other hand, contains numerous science and technology exhibits that highlight the contributions that Islamic scientists have made to the modern world. The ceiling dome depicting the signs of the zodiac is also not to be missed!
The museum also has a cafe in case you need an appetizer! The Sharjah Mosque was opened in 2019 to welcome up to 25,000 worshippers at one time. Built on a stunningly grand scale, there is a track that wraps its way around the Mosque to admire its architecture from every angle outside. Inside, there is a cafeteria, gift shop and space for non-Muslim visitors.
A 25km drive from the city of Sharjah in the Sharjah Desert Park is the Natural History & Botanical Museum. Another well-designed museum that can be enjoyed by the whole family with lots of opportunities for hands-on learning. The museum has had five galleries exploring life on earth since the dawn of time.
You have access to The Sharjah Discovery Centre and the petting zoo at Arabia’s Wildlife Centre too, both worth a visit. The Sharjah Discovery Centre is yet another site similar to Kidzania, offering children the opportunity to learn about the world around them in a miniature version of the adult world.
Designed for children between the ages of 3 and 12 the centre is divided into seven areas, these include; Build Town where children can build their own house using cranes and construction blocks; An Airport where the children work through different airport procedures; and water world where children can splash around in little boats and learn about how different things move in the water.
The Island of Legends whisks visitors around a magical world with several thrilling rides. The Loch Ness Spin boats bring you up close and personal with the Loch Ness Monster whilst you’ll be launched high into the sky with Dragon Discovery. The parks are clean and well maintained and there are a variety of food and beverage options. There is often live entertainment including singing and dancing and acrobatic displays.
Best time to visit Sharjah
The peak season is from October to April. This is also when the weather is pleasant, not too hot and humid. The average temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius during noon and early morning temperatures range between 16 degrees to 18 degrees Celsius. It is the best time to visit Sharjah for a vacation!
Oman
Oman, a country occupying the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula at the confluence of the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea. Much of the country’s interior falls within the sandy, treeless, and largely waterless region of the Arabian Peninsula known as the Rubʿ al-Khali. The region is still the domain of Bedouin nomads, although today it is also crisscrossed by oil and gas pipelines. In contrast to the stark interior, the coastal regions are much more hospitable. Oman’s lush northern coast lies between the sea and inland mountains. This verdant, fertile region is known for its grapes and other produce, as is the Dhofar region in the country’s south. The capital, Muscat, lies along the northern coast. Blending modern and traditional architecture, the city commands a view of the Gulf of Oman and serves as a port and commercial centre.
Airports and Accommodation
Oman has four international airports that are Muscat International Airport, Sohar International Airport, Duqm International Airport and Salalah International Airport. While all of these airports facilitate international travel, Muscat International Airport is the busiest one.
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, Oman has great stay ins to offer. Some of the best hotels of Oman include Intercontinental Muscat, Grand Millennium Muscat, Al Bustan Palace A Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, etc. These hotels will provide you with the best and extremely luxurious stay, while you’re in Oman. The average cost from India to Oman, for a solo traveller for a 7-day trip, would be around INR 80,000.
Tourist places in Oman
Nizwa- The Pearl of Islam
Among the highest and most majestic mountains of Oman, lies the historic city of Nizwa.
It is known as “The Pearl of Islam”. It is a conservative yet open nature of Nizwa makes and is the second-largest tourist destination in Oman! The ancient city was once the hub for trade, education, religion and art. Surrounded by date palms and banana plantations, Nizwa is a diverse city with many historical and agricultural attractions. It is full of attractions like the Nizwa Fort, the Souq, Jebel Akhdar and much more.
Musandam
Musandam is extremely rich in modern architecture and is full of serene beaches where you can enjoy the scenic view and relax! It is a much-loved destination for scuba divers because of the clear waters and the amazing facilities at the destination. This Omani peninsula is bordered by rugged mountains and turquoise water bodies and guarded by two gulfs.
Wahiba Sands
It is found between the diversion on the road between Sur and Muscat. The Wahiba sands, also known as The Sharqiya Sands are home to the bedouins. They’re great for adventurers seeking sand sports and night camping.
Masirah Island
It is the largest island in Oman along with being the most relaxing destination for a weekend getaway.
Masirah Island is filled with stunning beaches and exciting water sports. It recently opened tourism. This island is known as a “paradise for kitesurfers” as it is always windy, with a cool breeze pouring in from the Arabian Sea. There are four different species of turtles whose habitat is on the Masirah beaches, including around 30,000 nesting female turtles!
From Muscat to Ibri
The Oasis town of Ibri is situated in the northern Al Dhahirah region of Oman. It is just a 2.5 hours drive from Muscat. It is a friendly stopover between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. But the treasure of Ibri lies in its heritage.
The town of Ibri is the base for visiting many UNESCO Heritage sites. These sites consist of preserved tombs of Al-Ayn, Al-Khutm and Bat which are famous for being the most well preserved and completed ancient ensemble in the world. It is also an archaeological site with landmarks such as towers, forts, castles and tombs.
Also, this town, like many other middle eastern towns, is well known for oil.
Seasonings of Oman
Shuwa is the national dish of Oman and one of the must-try dishes during your travels. Preparing it takes a lot of time but once it goes inside your mouth, all the time it took to be prepared seems worth it!
Majboos, also known as Kabsa and Makboos, is a traditional mixed rice dish that originated in Saudi Arabia. It’s famous in the Arab World especially in the Gulf countries including Oman. The dish consists of rice, usually basmati, vegetables, meat or chicken and a mix of spices. It is sometimes served with either yoghurt or green salad to, traditional bread and tomato sauce to enhance the taste buds!
Omani Bread is one of the most important components of Omani cuisine that comes in different shapes and sizes. The bread is made by the local people of Oman at their homes but is also sold at different bakeries and restaurants in Oman. Broadly, there are two types of Omani bread, one is bigger and is thick and circular while the other is smaller in size and is generally thin and crisp. It is easy to prepare bread and uses just three ingredients: salt, water and flour. It is served with honey, mayonnaise or cheese, even with a meal, however, one pleases!
If you’re up for street food in Oman, Mishkak is a dish that you must not miss upon! It’s sold on almost every street of Oman. It’s a local yet extremely delicious dish. It is grilled pieces of marinated mutton, beef or chicken. It can be eaten with or without bread. It is usually served with hot tamarind chutney and brings all your taste buds to life!
Kahwa is Arabian style coffee that is quite popular as a drink in Oman. Local people have it at any time of the day. It is quite strong as compared to other coffee drinks. It’s usually served with halwa or dates. To enhance the flavour of coffee, kahwa is often mixed with cardamom powder. Kahwa is so important for the local people of Oman that they take it quite several times throughout the day which makes it the most famous food in Oman.
Another famous dish in Oman that travellers should know about is Mashuai. It is a traditional Omani dish that is usually prepared with Kingfish. The delicacy is widely popular in Oman and is eaten in just about every Omani house today. It is prepared by spit roasting a whole fish which has been oil and spices. The best way to have this dish is to combine it with lemon rice.
Not just the street food but one must also try out the great fine dining options that the country offers. Slider Station is a very well known burger joint that will satisfy all your cravings for a classic hamburger!
Ubhar, one of the finest dining options, shares its name with the ancient city supposedly now buried under the southern quarters of the city. Both the décor and the food are a medley of modern and historical Omani cuisine and design, though visitors are spared the traditional floor-level seating. Desserts are a highlight, especially the halva-based offerings.
Bin Ateeq is a fine compromise between authentic cuisine, Omani hospitality and accessible dishes for visitors from all over the world. With exquisite seating and mouth-watering dishes, it makes to the list of one of the must-visit restaurants in Oman!Dukes Bar Muscat and Begums are also great fine dining options for a great meal and eye-pleasing ambience.
Activities and entertainment
Hiking in Jebel Shams Canyon
The Jebel Shams Balcony Walk said to be the most popular hiking in Jebel Shams, is a 4km hike with around 200m in elevation change. You start at 1,900m at the rim of the Wadi Ghul canyon and go as low as 1,700m.It’s a return hike that takes around 3-4 hours, depending on how many photos and food breaks you take.
Visit wonderful waterfalls in Wadi Shab
Wadi Ash Shab is one of the top highlights of Oman. The narrow canyon is home to crystal clear blue water pools and also a secret waterfall inside a cave, where you can hike and reach.
Freshwater cascading from the tops of the mountains meet the briny seawater on its banks, creating an environmental diversity, making it stand on a pedestal of its own when compared with the other wadis in the Sultanate.
Misfah Al Albryinn Town-Mud Village
Misfat Al Abriyeen village is about 300 years old. It’s an oasis town of lush terraces, narrow passageways and staircases, beaten houses and hard rock, 1000m high, amongst the barren but beautiful surroundings. The first settlers were from the Omani Al Abri tribe, who farmed the land and had to use whatever resources they had to the full. Hence the mud architecture that’s made it so famous today.
Shopping in Oman
Within the realms of the Nizwa fort is one of the oldest and most renowned shopping spots in Oman, the Nizwa Souq. It is covered with all kinds of stalls; tailor shops, jewellery stores, hardware stores, date stalls, pottery etc, where you can shop for antiques, souvenirs for your loved ones, and just explore around the oldest of the Omani markets.
The Al Husn Souq which is the largest and the oldest souq in Salalah is also one of the busiest markets of Oman. Famous for its immense collection of aromatised frankincense, the souq also sells beautiful handicrafts and breathtaking silver jewellery. The best location in Salalah for exquisite souvenirs and traditional clothing is this market only.
Some of the best purchases you can make from here are the iconic silver daggers (named Khanjars), traditional coffee pots (named Dallah), tasselled turbans, and of course the incredible frankincense. The local merchants sell frankincense coals, burners, essential oils, lotions and perfumes. You can even try some frankincense honey and ice cream!
The Muttrah Souq, is the most popular tourist shopping spot in the whole country!The souq is packed with little vibrant shops and stalls, selling everything from Body Jewellery to frankincense to myrrh. The whole souq is like a maze, and it’s really easy to get lost amongst the tangled streets full of wooden handicrafts and little alleyways selling gold and other precious metals.
Wednesdays are Women-only market days!
Every Wednesday, in the desert town of Ibra, the region transforms into one of the brightest and most colourful souqs in the Middle East. Men are not allowed to step foot inside the market as Wednesdays are dedicated to women and only women merchants to sell their goods to other women. Women from all over the Bedouin area come to the souq to sell jewellery, textiles, makeup, home décor, souvenirs and much more! Dressed in beautiful hijabs and abayas, the women are kind, courteous and very welcoming to foreigners.
Trip Summary
Oman and Sharjah, both are easy countries to travel to and have a lot of fun activities, especially for a family vacation. The delicacies and religious roots are what makes the two countries worth the travel. The historic relevance that it has regarding the religion Islam will help one to open up more to the religion and heighten up the historical knowledge of the same. It facilitates budget-friendly international travel, for both solo and group travelers. With incredible coastline, dunes and skyline, these two countries are extremely welcoming!
