Al Nahda: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition in Sharjah

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

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [a'awad 'an 'ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatلا أأكل اللحم
  [laa aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود الدفع، من فضلك
  [a'awad aldaf', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atsil bialshurutah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atsil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود شراء...
  [a'awad shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallaa]
• How much is it?كم الثمن؟
  [kam althaman?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka takhfeed alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alssa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alssa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al'ashir walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adhdhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [albaraht]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

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

Al Nahda, which translates to 'The Renaissance,' is a vibrant neighbourhood in Sharjah that reflects the rapid development of the region during the late 20th century. Initially, the area was primarily agricultural, characterized by small farms and traditional Bedouin settlements, but the discovery of oil in the UAE transformed Sharjah's economic landscape, leading to significant urban development.

The 1970s marked a significant cultural shift in Al Nahda, coinciding with the establishment of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Sharjah, known for its dedication to preserving and promoting Arab culture, began developing institutions that fostered education and the arts. This period saw the establishment of cultural centers and museums that enriched the community's cultural fabric.

The late 1980s and 1990s brought about extensive urbanization in Al Nahda, with the construction of modern residential complexes, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. The architecture in Al Nahda showcases a blend of contemporary designs while respecting traditional Emirati aesthetics, contributing to the neighbourhood's unique character.

In recent years, Al Nahda has become a hub for cultural festivals and events, highlighting the UAE's commitment to cultural diversity. Events such as the Sharjah International Book Fair and various art exhibitions attract residents and visitors alike, fostering a sense of community and cultural appreciation within the neighbourhood.

Today, Al Nahda stands as a testament to Sharjah's economic diversification efforts. With a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, the area accommodates a growing population and a thriving business environment. The neighbourhood's strategic location near Dubai has also made it a popular choice for expatriates, contributing to its multicultural atmosphere.

Al Nahda is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Sharjah and Dubai. From Sharjah International Airport, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, which typically takes about 20 minutes. If you're coming from Dubai, the Metro's Green Line has a station at Al Nahda, and you can also take a bus or taxi. The public buses connect various neighborhoods, making travel convenient.

Al Nahda is well-connected via public transport, including buses and the Metro. The Al Nahda Metro station provides easy access to other parts of Sharjah and Dubai. Taxis are widely available, and ride-sharing apps are also operational. For a more leisurely option, cycling is popular in the area, with designated bike lanes in some parts.

Al Nahda is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, like in any urban area, it is wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Although crime targeting tourists is rare, petty theft can occur. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 998 for an ambulance. Hospitals and clinics are available in Al Nahda, with several pharmacies for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public spaces and when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions, especially during Ramadan. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don’t consume food or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake; avoid physical contact with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Al Nahda like a local, visit the Al Nahda Park for leisure activities and picnics. Explore local eateries and cafes to sample traditional Emirati dishes. Engage with residents, as they are often welcoming and eager to share their culture. Don't miss the opportunity to visit local markets and shops for unique crafts and souvenirs.