An hour’s drive north of Dubai is Sharjah, the third largest city in the UAE and also a winner of the UNESCO Cultural Capital of the Arab World – and it’s easy to see why.
Offering its distinctly unique Middle East charm as a city filled with history and heritage, visitors to Sharjah have access to some of the country’s best cultural sights, including the pre-Islamic Mleiha Archeological Site and the city’s age-old marketplaces.
A stay in Sharjah is the perfect choice for travellers looking for an alternative vacation spot in the UAE, with hotels offering everything from modern city luxuries to historic ambience and romantic desert escapes.
The Chedi Al Bait
The breathtaking result of a conversion project of some of the city’s historic manor houses, The Chedi Al Bait boasts a commitment to both modern luxury and the preservation of heritage.
Alongside fine dining options and a cigar lounge, guests can enjoy exclusive access to a private museum dedicated to the site’s past.
One particularly charming element of this location is the hotel’s library – a dreamy location to browse contemporary and antiquarian books during a break from exploring the city.
You will feel like you have travelled back in time with a stop at The Cafe, as you sip an Arab coffee and take in the age-old surroundings.
- Address: 79 Corniche Street, Al Shiokh, Sharjah
- Contact: +971 6 502 5555
Al Badayer Retreat by Sharjah Collection
Nestled between sand dunes, the Al Badayer Retreat is made for travellers seeking an escape from the city without compromising on luxury.
Part of the more expansive Sharjah Collection, the Al Badayer Retreat offers guests the magical experience of staying in a luxury tent or traditional home, with beautiful views of the starry desert sky.
Guests also have access to a family pool, bespoke dining, private spa and an amphitheatre.
Only a 45-minute drive from Sharjah Airport, this truly is the perfect spot for a romantic escape to the desert while remaining an arm’s length from the amenities of the city.
- Address: Al Badayer, Sharjah
- Contact: +971 6 801 2000
72 Hotel Sharjah
This striking hotel is perfect for those looking for an urban adventure in Sharjah.
72 Hotel is located on the waterfront in the centre of the city, close to iconic landmarks such as the Al Noor Mosque and Khalid Lake.
Water parks, shopping malls, and cinemas are all only a stone’s throw away.
The hotel has a hospitable and family-friendly atmosphere, including a specialised kids’ area to drop off the little ones while you enjoy the spa, the hotel’s international restaurant, or the magnificent views of the waterfront.
- Address: Buhairah Corniche, Al Noor Island, 110 Street, Al Majaaz 1, Al Majaz, Sharjah
- Contact: +971 6 507 9797
Pullman Sharjah
The Pullman boasts an ideal central location in the heart of Sharjah for those looking for a base to explore the rest of the city.
Trips to Al Qasba waterfront and Al Mamzar beach are right on the doorstep, whilst remaining only a short drive from Sharjah or Dubai International Airport.
After exploring, guests can enjoy a decadent meal at the main restaurant while taking in the sunset over the waterfront, or enjoy the view from the stunning infinity pool – complete with a juice bar and regular seafood nights.
- Address: Al Taawun Street, Al Khan, Sharjah
- Contact: +971 6 591 0000
Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort and Spa
This seaside resort offers all the decadence and luxury of a Sheraton 5-star resort, with the convenience of a central location along Sharjah’s picturesque coastline.
Visitors to the resort have exclusive access to a private beach with captivating views over the Arabian Gulf.
The hotel is particularly acclaimed for its gastronomy, with five varied restaurants ranging from Middle Eastern to international cuisine.
After dinner, take a wander along the vast coastline to catch the sunset, or take in the views from the luxurious comfort of your room.
- Address: Al Muntazah Street, Al Rifaah, Al Heerah Suburb, Sharjah
- Contact: +971 6 563 0000
