Al Taawun: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition in Sharjah

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryآسف
  [Aasif]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhair. Wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [La afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Awwad an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [Ana la aakol al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Areed an adfaa, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bial-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [Itsal bial-tabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [Liqad dillalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [Awwad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [Ana faqat atatallaa]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [Kam siroh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk khafeed al-siroh?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [Al-nisf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [Al-subah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [Masa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masa']
• Yesterdayالأمس
  [Al-ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [Ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [Ayna...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma hu al-aintan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [Mata al-hafilah al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [Tazkirah (ila...)]

Al Taawun, located in the emirate of Sharjah, has developed significantly since the late 20th century, reflecting Sharjah's strategic importance in the UAE. The area was initially characterized by low-density residential structures and agricultural land, with the local economy tied to traditional industries such as fishing and trade. Its location, near the border of Dubai, facilitated trade and cultural exchanges, making it an important hub for commerce.

In the 1990s, Al Taawun began to witness a cultural renaissance in line with Sharjah's vision as a cultural capital of the Arab world. The establishment of various cultural institutions and the promotion of arts and education contributed to a vibrant community. The Sharjah Art Foundation and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization are examples of initiatives that enriched the cultural landscape and attracted residents and tourists alike.

The early 2000s marked a period of rapid urban development in Al Taawun, characterized by extensive residential and commercial projects. The construction of high-rise buildings, shopping malls, and recreational facilities transformed the area into a modern urban center. This development was part of Sharjah's broader economic diversification strategy, aiming to reduce dependence on oil revenues and enhance tourism.

Al Taawun has played host to various cultural events that celebrate Emirati heritage and promote community engagement. Festivals such as the Sharjah International Book Fair and the Sharjah Light Festival have showcased the neighbourhood's commitment to cultural activities. These events attract participants from across the UAE and beyond, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.

In recent years, Al Taawun has continued to evolve, with ongoing investments in infrastructure and community services. The development of parks, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities reflects Sharjah's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The neighbourhood is poised for further growth, with plans to integrate more sustainable practices and smart technologies into urban planning, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of Sharjah's future.

Al Taawun is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Sharjah. The neighborhood is located near the main roads, making it convenient to reach by car or taxi. From the Sharjah International Airport, you can take a taxi, which will take approximately 20 minutes. If you're coming from downtown Sharjah, local buses (such as the 5 and 8 routes) connect to Al Taawun, with stops at key points in the area.

Getting around Al Taawun is straightforward. The area is well-connected by public buses, which are reliable and affordable. Taxis are also readily available for short distances. While Al Taawun does not have a metro system, it is pedestrian-friendly, allowing for easy exploration on foot. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops for those wishing to explore at a leisurely pace.

Al Taawun is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and to be cautious with personal belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding displaying valuables and being aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 998 for ambulance services. There are several hospitals and clinics in the vicinity, including Al Qassimi Hospital and Al Zahra Hospital. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Al Taawun, offering over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in public spaces and when visiting mosques. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Public Transport: Do give your seat to the elderly or pregnant women; don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings; don’t refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Al Taawun like a local, visit the Al Taawun Mall and the nearby markets for a taste of daily life. Engage with local vendors, who often have fascinating stories to share. Don’t miss the nearby Al Majaz Waterfront for a scenic walk or a picnic. For authentic dining experiences, seek out local eateries rather than international chains. Participate in local events and festivals if your visit coincides with one.