Part of the United Arab Emirates, Sharjah is the capital city of the emirate of Sharjah. After Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s the largest city in the UAE, and therefore a key contributor to the national economy. The city is divided into distinct areas that make navigation easy for travellers, and as with the rest of the UAE, oil and gas are the major industries here, with the city attracting significant foreign investment. The UAE is well known for having some of the world’s finest hotels, and Sharjah is no exception.
What may interest me as a business traveller in Sharjah?
Like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Sharjah sits facing the Persian Gulf, with a beautiful port offering excellent sailing and water-based activities. The city is arranged in a neat grid pattern, with districts such as University City and the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone. The latter is the focal point for the town’s foreign business community, with incentives such as 24-hour licensing and ease of logistical transport. Sharjah is also a great place to visit for pleasure. You'll find many historical sites including forts and mosques as well as world-class shopping, dining and museums.
What can I expect from Sharjah’s commercial activities?
Just 30-minutes drive from Dubai, Sharjah enjoys its own healthy city economy due to its contribution to the oil and gas sectors. The nation’s zero-tax rate and commitment to expanding foreign investment means that many multinationals have set up offices in the city. The American University of Sharjah is a local hub for business networking, hosting events including the International Conference on Water, Energy and Environment and the International Conference on Museums in Arabia.
Where are some good places to visit when staying in a Sharjah hotel?
Sharjah is widely considered the cultural and historical bastion of the UAE. The Heritage and Art Areas sit next to each other on the coast, both excellent places to explore the various monuments and cultural landmarks of Sharjah, including Al Hisn Fort and the Sharjah Art Museum. For shopping, the Blue Souq is great for a taste of authentic local commerce, whilst Ansar and Safeer Mall offer a range of modern retail outlets, selling high-end fashion, electronics and more. After dropping your bags off, indulge in a sumptuous meal in one of Sharjah's elegant hotel restaurants.