Sharjah: The Cultural Gem of the UAE

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [fi sahtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal bietib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضاعت دروبي
  [laqad daeat durubi]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sairuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsair?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaeah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaeah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walinisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين توجد...؟
  [ayn tujad...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilah alqadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirah (ila ....)]

The history of Sharjah dates back over 6000 years. Archaeological findings at sites like Mleiha and Jebel Faya reveal evidence of human habitation during the Stone Age. These early settlements thrived due to their strategic location and access to vital resources such as water and fertile soil.

During the 3rd century BCE, Sharjah became a significant hub for trade. The port town of Mleiha emerged as an important center for commerce, connecting the region with traders from Mesopotamia, Persia, and the Indus Valley. This period saw the establishment of trade routes that facilitated the exchange of goods such as spices, textiles, and pottery.

With the arrival of Islam in the 7th century, Sharjah embraced the new religion. The region's strategic coastal position helped it become a key player in the spread of Islam and Islamic culture across the Arabian Peninsula. The construction of mosques and madrasas became common, and the area prospered under Islamic governance.

In the 16th century, Sharjah came under the influence of the Portuguese who were seeking to control the spice trade routes. This period was marked by conflicts and fortifications along the coast. Later, the Ottomans extended their reach into the Arabian Gulf, further shaping the region’s political landscape.

By the 18th century, the Al Qasimi family had established itself as the ruling dynasty of Sharjah. Their leadership was characterized by maritime prowess and resistance against European colonial powers. The Al Qasimi rulers played a crucial role in maintaining the independence and sovereignty of Sharjah during a period of regional turbulence.

In the 19th century, Sharjah, along with other Trucial States, entered into treaties with the British Empire. These agreements provided protection against Ottoman and regional threats in exchange for control over foreign policy. The British influence brought relative stability and facilitated the development of infrastructure and trade.

The discovery of oil in the mid-20th century marked a transformative period for Sharjah. While not as oil-rich as some of its neighbors, the revenue from oil exports spurred economic development and modernization. The city saw significant investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, setting the stage for rapid urban growth.

On December 2, 1971, Sharjah joined six other emirates to form the United Arab Emirates. This union brought political stability and economic cooperation, fostering development across the region. Sharjah emerged as a cultural and educational hub, emphasizing the preservation of its rich heritage.

In recent years, Sharjah has been recognized for its commitment to culture and education. It was named the UNESCO Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998 and the Islamic Culture Capital in 2014. The establishment of museums, art galleries, and cultural festivals has solidified Sharjah's reputation as a center for intellectual and artistic pursuits.

Sharjah is served by Sharjah International Airport (SHJ), which is located about 13 kilometers southeast of the city center. The airport is well-connected to many international destinations, especially within the Middle East and Asia. Alternatively, you can fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB) and take a taxi or bus to Sharjah, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away. Public buses operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) also connect Dubai and Sharjah.

Sharjah has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses and taxis. The Sharjah Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) operates a network of buses that cover most areas of the city. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For a more personalized experience, car rental services are also available. Note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan your trips accordingly.

The official currency of the United Arab Emirates is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and currency exchange services are available at the airport, in shopping malls, and at various locations throughout the city. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where card payment is not accepted.

Sharjah is considered a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for fire services. Sharjah has several hospitals and clinics that provide high-quality medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues, and many are open 24/7.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection. Public Transport: Do stand up for elderly passengers and women with children. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Men should wait for women to extend their hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sharjah like a local, visit the Blue Souk (Central Market) for traditional goods and souvenirs. Explore the Heart of Sharjah, a cultural heritage project that offers a glimpse into the history and traditions of the Emirate. Don’t miss the Sharjah Art Museum and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization for a deep dive into the region’s rich cultural heritage. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Al Majaz Waterfront, a popular spot for both locals and tourists.