With a land area of 2,590 square kilometres, Sharjah is the third biggest and third-most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (1,000 sq mi). Sharjah shares borders with Dubai to the south, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah to the north and east, respectively. In the United Arab Emirates, it is the biggest emirate. It has views of the Gulf of Oman (Indian Ocean) to the east and the Persian Gulf (west), as well as the eastern Sharjah coastal villages of Kalba and Khor Fakkan.

The greatest season to travel to Sharjah is during the winter, from December to February. Due to the pleasant weather, lack of rain, and low humidity, the season is frequently referred to as the busiest travel period. During this period, the temperature often hovers around 20 degrees Celsius. Travel to the country is however pleasant even in March and April.

Nonetheless, the summer months (May to August) are quite warm and difficult for daytime travel. There is no humidity in Sharjah and the climate is arid. May through August are the hottest months of the year, with highs of 40 to 43 degrees Celsius. It becomes uncomfortable to go sightseeing and engage in outdoor activities when the temperature rises to this level, therefore travel is not highly recommended for touring and exploring.

The cuisine in Sharjah is exquisite, honouring divine dishes of the UAE. Specifically in the winter months, rice, vegetables and wheat are preferred, whilst in the warmer months of the summer camels, goats, lamb and fresh fish are popular.

Some of the favourite dishes include:

Shawarma: a popular street food of succulent meat served in a flatbread or pitta style bread, with vegetables and delicious sauces.

Humus: a wonderful and renowned Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dip of chickpeas served with a sprinkling of olive oil, that traditional Arabic flatbread is dunk into it.

Tabbouleh: a refreshing bulgur and fresh herb salad topped with parsley and sweet finely chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. A Middle Eastern staple side dish for every delicious meal.

Harees: a divine comfort food, this wonderful meal is made from beaten wheat and chicken, and usually served during Ramadan.

Sharjah’s history goes back 5000 years, when it was one of the richest settlements in the Gulf. The town saw some instability in the 16th century as the Portuguese seized territory on the east coast to dominate the trade in spices. Under their direction, the forts at Khor Fakkan, Kalba, and Dibba were created. The Dutch thereafter tried to rule the region for the same purpose. The arrival of the British in the area and their subsequent trade with the Qawasim, the ancestors of the current royal family of Sharjah, marked the city’s turning point in the 17th century. With the establishment of the UAE, the British presence in the city came to an official end. Sharjah joined the United Arab Emirates as a founding member on December 2nd, 1971.

A trip to Sharjah with the family boasts many exciting activities to enjoy and create wonderful memories. On your travels visit the Sharjah Aquarium which features 20 different tanks that recreate various aquatic environments, from stunning coral reefs and impressive rock pools to lagoons and delightful mangroves. You will also have the chance to experience these aquatic wonders up close through the walkway. If you would like to delve into the history of the city, take your family to the Natual History and Botanical Museum, which is home to fossils, meteorites, taxidermy and unique animals. Similarly, the Botanical gardens includes over 100 distinct species of flora. Whilst in the vicinity do visit the Sharjah Desert Park that includes a petting zoo and several endangered species.