The third largest of the seven emirates, Sharjah is situated between Dubai and Ajman. Once part of a single emirate with Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah is ruled by the Al Qasimi family.

Sharjah Art Museum is one of six major museums in the emirate.

Under the guidance of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Sharjah has earned the title of the ‘cultural capital’ of the UAE.

The Emirate has some of the most interesting architecture in the country, an archeological museum, numerous examples of traditional watchtowers, a natural history museum and souks to rival any in the region, which are as good a place as any to buy carpets from Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

It is a good place to purchase carpets from Iran, Pakistan and Afganistan. The headquarters for the Authors' and Writers' Union in the UAE are located here, which has over a hundred publications to its credit and home to one of the best book fairs in the UAE are located here.

Sharjah blue souk is a major shopping destination.

It used to be popular in the subcontinent for holding world class One Day International cricket matches, but sadly, the Sharjah Cup is no longer played out here.

Sharjah comprises some important oases, the most famous of which is Dhaid where a wide range of vegetables and fruits are cultivated on its rich and fertile soil.

Khor Fakkan, one such tourism spot, provides Sharjah with a major east coast port.