TOURISM INDIA MARCH 2019 TOURISM INDIA FEBRUARY 2019 | Page 43

DE S T I NAT ION / OU T B OU N D
SHARJAH
A CULTURE CAPITAL WITH A MYRIAD
OF EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES
S
harjah is home to acclaimed
art galleries, buzzy waterfront
areas and a sophisticated
outlook; as creativity and excitement
flow through the emirate. At the same
time, the emirate stays true to its
Islamic heritage, with a traditional,
gracious and welcoming vibe.Nestled
between two lagoons, the emirate is a
global metropolis of modern business
and vibrant culture. UNESCO declared
Sharjah a Culture Capital of the
Arab World in 1998 for its efforts to
maintain and promote Arab traditions.
The city shares its heritage with
over 20 museums and galleries, local
architecture and culture-packed leisure
activities. Sharjah is a prime tourism
destination with 106 hotels and
hotel apartments, a variety of casual
dining restaurants and indescribable
experiences that take its guests
through its rich and vibrant history.
Below are a few must visit places in
Sharjah:
AL NOOR ISLAND
Al Noor Island is home to an
architecturally stunning Butterfly
House, serene Literature Pavilion and
contemporary sculptures by some of
the world’s most famous artists. A 3.5
km-long boardwalk snakes through
landscaped gardens, while light
installations bring the island to life at
night.
AL QASBA
Crossed by pedestrian bridges, this
car-free canal-side complex is packed
with cafés, restaurants and shops.
Families will love the musical
fountain, kids’ fun zone and indoor
soft play centre, while art fans should
check out the latest exhibition at the
Maraya Art Centre. There are also abra
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