So, I just got back from Sharjah, right? And honestly, it was one of those trips that took a hard left turn from what I expected. When I say “best things to do in Sharjah,” I mean it like when a friend spills something on your new outfit—you didn't see it coming, but somehow it turns out to be a good story later.
This spot? Total surprise.
I had this vague itinerary in my head, a few temples to visit, maybe a beach or two to chill at. But on the second day, my friend and I found ourselves wandering around the Central Souq, which I'd heard of but wasn't really dying to see. I thought, “A souq? Sounds busy and hot.” Spoiler: It was both, but in the best possible way.
The air was thick with the scent of spices and something sweet, like perhaps pretzels but way more exotic. I'll be honest, I didn't even know what I was looking for. Suddenly, I was approached by this charming old man selling saffron. He had the biggest mustache and the warmest smile. Just chatting with him felt like I was stepping into another world.
He started telling me about how saffron is harvested, making it sound like something out of a fairytale. I found myself completely captivated, and without even realizing it, my initial reluctance melted away. I ended up buying a small bag of saffron—not because I had any plans for it, but because I needed something from that moment to take home with me.
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
So, the next afternoon, we tried to hit the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. I thought I'd spend an hour or two gawking at ancient artifacts and call it a day. But the universe had other plans—I managed to lose my phone while wandering through the exhibits. Total panic mode, right? I was frantically retracing my steps, half-crazed by the idea of losing all my photos and contacts.
But as luck would have it, there was a museum staff member who found it almost immediately. When he returned my phone, he smiled and said something in Arabic. I didn't catch all the words, but the vibe? Pure warmth. That little interaction shifted the whole tone of my day. Suddenly, I didn't just see artifacts; I saw stories behind them.
It was like stepping into an immersive history lesson. I was now absorbing everything, from intricate calligraphy to stunning displays of art. I realized that the best things to do in Sharjah weren't just about ticking boxes but diving into the experiences and the stories of the people behind them.
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
Now, let's talk about the Al Qasba area. I had intended to check out the canal, but somehow I ended up at the nearby playground. Not a total loss, of course—there were families everywhere, laughing and enjoying themselves.
I don't know why I decided to stop and watch some kids run around, but there I was, sipping this incredible saffron latte (yes, I found out they put saffron in lattes too) and just absorbing the vibe. It was so unexpected! I can't even remember the last time I just sat back and took in the surroundings without a million thoughts racing around my head.
After a while, I noticed this little boat ride that took off from a nearby dock. Without overthinking it, I hopped in. And guys, it was the best. Floating lazily along the canal, with the sun setting behind the skyline, I was suddenly overwhelmed by how beautiful Sharjah truly is. Who knew a wrong turn could lead me to this? It made me feel like I was in on a secret—the kind you only get when you don't stick to the original plan.
The meal that stayed with me
Then came this meal at a local eatery called Al Mahara, featuring honest-to-goodness Emirati food. I wasn't super adventurous at first; I ordered a traditional dish called Al Harees, which is basically wheat and meat cooked together until it's this creamy, dreamy bowl of comfort.
This place was so unassuming—just a bunch of regular tables and chairs. But the food? Oh man, once I took that first bite, it was like a wave of warmth washed over me. You ever have that? You take a bite, and it feels like someone is hugging you from the inside? Yeah, that.
The owners made their rounds, chatting with patrons. It felt less like a restaurant and more like a home. We got so caught up in conversation that I lost track of time until the late afternoon sun started casting long shadows across the table.
Reflecting on it all over coffee
I've been home for a bit now, and honestly, I'm still replaying these moments. Sharjah was about the unexpected surprises and small victories. It wasn't in the grand buildings or attractions; it was in the little things, like losing my phone and finding a story that wasn't mine but became a part of me, or a saffron latte that kind of felt like destiny.
Honestly, I wasn't expecting much from this trip, but it turned out to be this tapestry of experiences that were just so richly woven together. I know I'll be talking about it over countless coffees to come, probably sloshing my drink around like I usually do as I get excited about the details.
So, if you ever get the chance, don't just rely on the “best things to do in Sharjah” that everyone tells you about. Go get lost a little, talk to a stranger, catch a sunset on a random boat ride, and eat that bowl of Al Harees. Trust me, it'll turn into more than a short trip; it'll become this story that you carry with you.
