JournalHeart of Sharjah: Heritage Area, Al Hisn Fort and Museums
In short: Heart of Sharjah is a multi-phase project to preserve and restore Sharjah's old city centre as an open-air museum with small museums, galleries and shops, aiming to return the old town to its 1950s character. Al Hisn, built in 1823, reopened in 2015 after renovation.
Quick facts
| Starting point | Sharjah city |
|---|---|
| Emirate | Sharjah |
| Fort | Al Hisn, built 1823; reopened 2015 after renovation |
| Museum | Al Mahatta Museum opened 2000 on the site of the region's first airport |
| Cultural titles | Islamic Culture Capital 2014; World Book Capital 2019 |
| Best season | Cooler months |
A city shaped by culture
Sharjah is regarded as the UAE's cultural capital. It was the Islamic Culture Capital in 2014 and UNESCO's World Book Capital for 2019.
What to see
- Al Hisn (Sharjah Fort), built in 1823 as the Al Qasimi family's headquarters, closed for renovation from 1996 to 2015 and reopened as an open-air museum.
- Sharjah Heritage Museum, around a shaded courtyard, with furniture, costumes, toys and jewellery.
- Al Mahatta Museum, on the site of the region's first airport where Imperial Airways made its first international landing in 1932.
- The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization in Al-Nabba.
Planning notes
The restoration project had a planned completion of 2025, so confirm which quarters are open. Opening hours and tickets differ by museum. For deeper time, continue to Mleiha's archaeology inland.
Check before you go
This is a researched guide, not legal, medical or safety advice. UAE rules, permits, fees, opening hours and closures change and can differ by emirate, so confirm with the official tourism authority, municipality or police before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is Heart of Sharjah?
A project to restore the old city centre as an open-air museum, aiming at its 1950s character.
When was Al Hisn built?
In 1823 as the Al Qasimi family's headquarters.
What is the Al Mahatta Museum?
A museum on the site of the region's first airport.
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Read nextRules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.