Al Majaz: The Waterfront Jewel of Sharjah

• HelloMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeMa'a as-salama
  [ma-a as-sa-la-ma]
• YesNaam
  [na-am]
• NoLa
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeMin fadlik
  [min fa-dlik]
• Thank youShukran
  [shuk-ran]
• Excuse me/SorryAfsos
  [af-sos]
• How are you?Kif halak?
  [keef ha-lak]
• Fine. And you?Tamam. Wa ant?
  [ta-mam. wa ant]
• Do you speak English?Hal tatakallam al ingliziya?
  [hal ta-ta-kal-lam al in-gli-zi-ya]
• I don't understandLa afham
  [la af-ham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAraita al qayemah, min fadlik
  [a-rai-ta al qa-yemah, min fa-dlik]
• I don't eat meatAna la akul lahama
  [a-na la a-kul la-ha-ma]
• Cheers!Saha!
  [sa-ha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseUrid an adfa, min fadlik
  [u-rid an ad-fa, min fa-dlik]

• Help!Musaidah!
  [mu-sai-dah]
• Go away!Izl!
  [izl]
• Call the Police!Iltija bil shurta!
  [il-ti-ja bil shur-ta]
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  [il-ti-ja bil ta-bib]
• I'm lostAna daa'i
  [a-na daa-i]
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  [a-na ma-reed]

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  [u-rid an ash-tar]
• I'm just lookingAna fii baraahah
  [a-na fee ba-ra-ha]
• How much is it?Kam thamanuh?
  [kam tha-ma-nuh]
• That's too expensiveThalika ghali jiddan
  [tha-li-ka gha-li jid-dan]
• Can you lower the price?Hal tastatiu tanqis althaman?
  [hal tas-ta-tiu tan-qis al-tha-man]

• What time is it?Kam as-sa'ah?
  [kam as-sa-ah]
• It's one o'clockAlwaahidah
  [al-wa-hi-dah]
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  [du-hur]
• EveningMasaa
  [ma-saa]
• YesterdayAms
  [ams]
• TodayAl-yawm
  [al-yawm]
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  [gha-dan]
• 1Wahid
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  [tha-la-tha]
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  [ma hu-wa al-a-la-mat]
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  [hal tas-ta-tiu an tu-ri-ya-ni (alaa al kha-ri-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Mata huwa al bas alqadim?
  [ma-ta hu-wa al bas al-qa-dim]
• A ticket (to ....)Tathkarah (ila ....)
  [ta-thka-rah (i-la)]

Al Majaz, located along the shores of the Khalid Lagoon, has been a vital area for maritime trade and settlement for centuries. The proximity to water facilitated commerce and fishing, establishing Al Majaz as a hub for traders and settlers in the region. The area reflects Sharjah's historical significance as a center of trade in the Arabian Peninsula.

In the mid-20th century, Sharjah, including Al Majaz, experienced a cultural renaissance under the leadership of Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. This period saw the establishment of various cultural institutions, museums, and art galleries, promoting the heritage and arts of the UAE. Al Majaz became a focal point for cultural events and community gatherings.

The early 2000s marked a significant transformation in Al Majaz with the development of the Al Majaz Waterfront, a project aimed at enhancing the area's recreational and tourism appeal. This waterfront area features parks, restaurants, and leisure facilities, attracting both residents and visitors, and showcasing the blend of modernity with cultural traditions.

In 2014, Sharjah was designated the Capital of Islamic Culture, reinforcing its commitment to cultural heritage and community engagement. Al Majaz played a pivotal role in this initiative, hosting various cultural festivals, exhibitions, and educational programs that celebrated Islamic arts and traditions, further enriching the local community's cultural landscape.

Recent years have seen Al Majaz embrace sustainable urban development, aligning with Sharjah's vision for a greener future. Initiatives focusing on eco-friendly practices, public spaces, and community engagement have been implemented, transforming Al Majaz into a model for sustainable living while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Al Majaz is centrally located in Sharjah, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. The most convenient way to reach Al Majaz is by taxi or car, as it is well-connected by major roads like Al Mina Street and Al Ittihad Road. Public transportation options include buses that connect to various districts in Sharjah, with several routes stopping at Al Majaz. The nearest metro station is in Dubai, and from there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Al Majaz.

Al Majaz is pedestrian-friendly, especially around the Al Majaz Waterfront area, which is ideal for walking and cycling. Sharjah offers a public bus system that is efficient and affordable, with several routes operating in and out of Al Majaz. For those preferring private transport, taxis are readily available. Bicycle rentals are also an option for those looking to explore the area on two wheels.

Al Majaz is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, standard safety precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, particularly around the outskirts of the neighbourhood. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it’s advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded spaces, especially in markets and public transport.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 998 for medical emergencies. Sharjah has several hospitals and clinics, with the nearest major hospital being Al Qassimi Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Al Majaz.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, ensure to cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't consume food or drinks on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake or a nod. Avoid overly casual greetings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t eat in public during Ramadan if you are not fasting, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Al Majaz like a local, visit the Sharjah Aquarium and the nearby Al Majaz Park for leisurely walks and picnics. Engage with local vendors at the Souq Al Jubail for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Try to attend local events or festivals, which often take place at the waterfront. Additionally, enjoy the evening light shows at the Al Majaz Waterfront, which are popular among residents.