UM TARAFA

Um Tarafa is a popular neighbourhood in Sharjah. It comprises low and high-rise buildings. Sandwiched between Ibrahim Mohammed Al Medfaa Street, Al Arouba Street, Al Zahraa Street and Al Rolla Street, it is located near the edge of Sharjah Creek. There are many parks near the community that offer clean air to residents. As it is near Sharjah Art Museum, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and Sharjah Art Institute, it offers a glimpse into Arab heritage.

• Um Tarafa is a suburb in Sharjah
• Home to low and high-rise buildings
• The area offers affordable apartments for rent
• Supermarkets, schools, clinics, hospitals and mosques are located nearby
• Close to various attractions including Sharjah Art Institute, Sharjah Art Museum and Heart of Sharjah

Considered to be one of the most desired areas to live in Sharjah, Um Tarafa is a self-contained community. It is home to apartment buildings where people from various nationalities reside. There are also supermarkets, shops and salons within close proximity. The neighbourhood is an attractive option for those on the lookout for an affordable, family-friendly property. In addition to this, it is easily accessible and boasts a vibrant lifestyle. Hence, Um Tarafa is a great place to live.

Properties in Um Tarafa include apartments and shops. The neighbourhood is the ideal place for both singles and families. The residential complexes that dot the area are fully equipped with modern amenities. There are various units that are available. The affordable flats in the neighbourhood include 1 and 2-bedroom units which offer spacious rooms, split-ducted air-conditioner units and a balcony. Each apartment unit provides a magnificent living room, a wardrobe and watchman service.

Those interested in renting a property in Um Tarafa have plenty of options. Here is what you need to pay to rent a property in the area.

• To rent a 1-bedroom apartment in Um Tarafa, you need AED 18k a year. The property would cover around 650 sq. ft. to 700 sq. ft. and have a separate bathroom.
• Those looking for more space can rent a 2-bedroom apartment in Um Tarafa for AED 26k a year. The unit will cover anywhere from 689 sq. ft. to 1,000 sq. ft. and offer 2 bathrooms.
• As for businesses hoping to set up a store in the area, they can rent a shop in Um Tarafa for AED 40k a year.

The apartments located in Um Tarafa offer separate parking space. Typically, one parking space is offered to each apartment for sale in Um Tarafa. However, some buildings provide more parking space. But, there is reserved parking for guests.

There are plenty of bus stops in Um Tarafa that allow one to benefit from public transport in Sharjah. Hence, residents are just a short walk away from the nearest bus stop. The following are some of the bus stops in the neighbourhood for getting around the city:

• Ibrahim Mohammed Al Madfa Street Bus Stop
• Al Rolla Terminal Station 4
• The Al Warqf Center Terminal
• Al Aroba Street, KM Trade Centre Bus Stop
• The Al Rolla Park Bus Stop

Since Um Tarafa lies at the heart of Sharjah, it is close to a number of stores and commercial spaces.

There are various local supermarket chains and grocery stores that are located near the community. These include Al Amal Al Saeed Grocery Store, Al Zahriah Supermarket, Shady Mart, Creek Supermarket and NWZ West Zone Supermarket where you can shop for your groceries every month.

Those looking to pray at a mosque can walk to any of the following mosques:

• Alharamain Mosque
• King Faisal Mosque
• Bani Shaibah Mosque
• Burhani Masjid Sharjah
• Al Zahra Mosque

As for those adhering to a different faith, they will need to drive a bit further to their respective place of worship. Some of the churches that residents visit include:

• Union Church
• Sharjah Worship Center
• Marthoma Parish Sharjah
• St. Gregorios Orthodox Church
• Christian Fellowship Church, Sharjah

The above churches in Sharjah are located in Al Yarmook. Those adhering to Hinduism can head to Swaminarayan Mandir Vasna Sanstha in Al Qusais 2 which should take around 21 minutes to reach. Otherwise, one would have to drive for half an hour to reach any of the temples in Bur Dubai. The most famous of these is Shiva Temple which is located in the district of Al Fahidi. It is located next to the Dubai Museum.

Families moving to Um Tarafa have plenty of options when it comes to sending their kids to school. There are many schools nearby as mentioned below:

• Emirates Private School – within walking distance
• Al Islah School – 5 minutes away
• Progressive English School – 6 minutes away
• Al-Maarifa International Private School –  6 minutes away

Emirates Private School is located in Al Manakh and is the nearest school from the neighbourhood. It offers a high quality of education. Al Islah School is another great school for children to study at. It is a part of the Heart of Sharjah project and was the first school to provide classes to girls in the country. Opened back in the 1930’s, it has become a cultural landmark now. Progressive English School is also an excellent school that provides an Indian curriculum-based education. It is located in Al Yarmook just like Al-Maarifa International Private School which teaches both the British and American curriculum.

Those interested in higher education can study at Swiss Business School (SBS) which is located in Rolla Mall and can be reached within 10 minutes. Otherwise, one can study at the University City Sharjah by driving for 19 minutes.

There are various medical centres near Um Tarafa as mentioned below.

• Thumbay Clinic Rolla
• Central Hospital Sharjah
• NMC Royal Hospital Sharjah
• Al Saha Al Shifa Hospital, Rolla
• Burjeel Specialty Hospital, Sharjah

Many of the top hospitals in Sharjah are located nearby. Whether you require a quick checkup or experience a medical emergency, the above hospitals offer outstanding medical care. As the hospitals are within walking distance, you do not need to head far to seek treatment.

Um Tarafa is close to various communities. Rolla Area and Al Ghuwair are located just outside the neighbourhood. The properties available in these communities include residential apartments, offices and commercial shops. There are plenty of popular supermarkets and medical institutions in the area.

Al Nabba is another area that is frequented by residents. It features high and low-rise buildings. The apartments in Al Nabba offer spacious bedrooms, central air-conditioning and 24-hour security service. Al Mareija is a well-known community that is known for its historical sites such as the Sharjah Heritage Museum and the Heart of Sharjah. Khalid Lake is located a bit further away. It has multiple attractions such as Khalid Lagoon which attracts both residents and tourists.

There are various shopping malls that residents of Um Tarafa visit. Rolla Mall and Bustan Al Rolla Trading Centre are the nearest options as they are located at the border of Um Tarafa and Rolla Area. The outdoor Rolla Market is a traditional shopping destination that offers a unique experience.

In addition to the above**, KM Trading Centre** and Sharjah Shopping Centre are located within Um Tarafa. Sharjah Shopping Centre is the best shopping destination for jewellery shoppers. It houses more than 30 outlets of renowned brands like Damas, Pure Gold and Atlas Jewellery. On the other hand, KM Trading Centre offers household items and electrical gadgets.

A major perk of living in Um Tarafa is that there are countless fast-food chains, budget eateries and casual dining spots within close proximity. Some of the popular restaurants that are within walking distance include:

• Geetar Restaurant
• Sumaya Restaurant
• Vandana Restaurant
• City Darbar Restaurant
• Mama Machi Restaurant
• Zaytoon & Zafaran Restaurant

One of the closest beaches from Um Tarafa is Sharjah Beach. It only takes 8 minutes to reach. However, it does not provide as many amenities as other public beaches. The government is working towards developing the beach to ensure that it is equipped with world-class amenities. Therefore, residents would need to drive for 9 minutes to Al Khan Beach. It offers many facilities and activities to keep visitors satisfied. Watersports enthusiasts will find it to be a great beach. Moreover, Al Mamzar Beach is also worth visiting. It takes 18 minutes to reach but makes up for the time by providing barbeque and picnic spots. There are also many beach-view eateries at the beach.

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Um Tarafa is near some of the famous landmarks in Sharjah such as Al Noor Island and Central Souk. Those interested in artwork will need to check out the Sharjah Art Museum. The Heart of Sharjah in Al Mareija is a historical landmark that will transport you back in time. It is the largest historical project in the area and is home to art spaces, heritage sites, souks and museums.

Residents also visit the waterfront communities of Al Majaz, Al Qasba and Al Khan during their free time. Al Qasba Sharjah is a must-visit for artisans and art lovers. It has a lot to offer, from art galleries to museums. Moreover, Maraya Art Centre is also a great place to spend time. It serves as a hub for cultural and artistic activities. As Al Qasba has a dedicated fun area for kids, parents will find it to be the ideal place to spend time. It even has a musical fountain and go karting facilities. Sharjah Clock Tower roundabout is also a unique spot that highlights the heritage of the city.

Residents of Um Tarafa enjoy spending time outside and exploring the city. Khalid Lagoon is a major attraction in the area that consists of a water fountain. Next to Khalid Lagoon, you will find Corniche Al Buhaira which has many walking and running spots. Other areas to spend time outdoors include Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront. They host various events such as the Sharjah Food Festival and Sharjah Light Festival.

There are also plenty of fitness centres nearby where fitness enthusiasts can work out. These include Al Rolla Fitness, My Gym, Al Shiaar Al Thahabi Gym, Golden Gym and Al Arab Fitness which are all within walking distance.

There are also salons and spas nearby which are frequented by residents for their beauty needs. Um Tarafa has many salons including Top Beauty Ladies Saloon, Perfect Gents Salon, Lotus Ladies Saloon and Al Inekas Ladies Salon. These can be reached by walking.

As a resident of the community, you can participate in the many events that are held within the community. There are activities for the entire family. Hence, you should be able to connect with people.

Um Tarafa is a great neighbourhood to live in Sharjah. It boasts a prime location and pays homage to Arab heritage. If you are looking for an area that is suitable for families and economical, it is the perfect option. It has many supermarkets, schools and landmarks nearby. Although the apartments might not be as luxurious as other areas, they offer modern amenities. Moreover, the community offers quick access to most parts of Sharjah. Hence, it is worth considering.

• Al Khezamia is 11 minutes away
• Sharjah Expo Centre is 11 minutes away
• Sharjah International Airport is 16 minutes away
• Downtown Dubai is 30 minutes away