All about the Sharjah Museums Authority
The history of the emirate of Sharjah dates back 5,000 years when economic activities like farming, fishing, pearl diving, hunting and trade made it the wealthiest area in the region. Aside from its multiple cultural and artistic contributions, Sharjah is also renowned for preserving its rich heritage. One of the crucial entities in that admirable process is the Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA).
What is the Sharjah Museums Authority?
The Sharjah Museums Authority was established in 2006 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. The establishment is an autonomous government authority and is responsible for overseeing around 16 museums across Sharjah – covering everything from the history of Sharjah to Islamic culture, art, science, heritage, archaeology and marine life.
Museums under the SMA
The Sharjah Museums Authority has authority over the following museums in the emirate:
Al Eslah School Museum
Journey to the past at the first formal school in Sharjah. Al Eslah School Museum first opened its doors to the public in 2003 but was originally established in 1935. Here, visitors can observe how the education system worked back in the day. It still retains photos of students who used to sit at the wooden desks. Meanwhile, the model school’s upstairs dormitory was reserved for students from overseas. Located in the historic Heart of Sharjah district, the museum is ideal for history buffs looking to explore the country’s academic past.
- Location: Heart of Sharjah, next to Al Arsah Souq
- Contact: +971-6-568-0754
Al Mahatta Museum
Learn about the region’s first airport at the Al Mahatta Museum. The historic airport was first built in 1932 and opened as a museum in 2000. Originally used as a staging post for commercial flights from Britain to India, the site gives visitors an insight into the development of aviation in the region. In line with preservation efforts, Al Hatta Museum still houses the restored original propeller planes in a hangar. The museum is an essential visit due to its range of unique items that chart man’s first attempts at flight, right through to the moon landing.
- Location: Al Mahatta area, behind Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship
- Contact: +971-6-573-3711
- Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) | 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Friday)
Bait Al Naboodah
As is apparent, many historic structures in Sharjah have been converted into museums to preserve the country’s heritage. Bait Al Naboodah is a prime example. Constructed in the mid-19th century, this traditional house is testament to classic Emirati architecture, showcasing the values and lifestyles of the time.
The home opened its doors to the public in 1995 and was reopened again in 2018 after restorations. It was originally the home of a successful and affluent pearl merchant, the late Obaid bin Eissa Bin Ali Al Shamsi, who also traded with merchants in France, Africa and India.
- Location: Heart of Sharjah, Al Mareija
- Contact: +971-6-556-6003
- Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) | 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Friday)
Sharjah Archaeology Museum
Excavations reveal humans have inhabited the emirate for more than 125,000 years. The Sharjah Archaeology Museum explores the lifestyle of inhabitants from the Stone Age to the rise of Islam in the region. The museum sheds light on ancient settlements and features artefacts from excavations that have been taking place for the last 50 years. These include pottery, coins, ancient weapons and more. Apart from these, visitors can also explore replicas of houses, cemeteries and tombs via intricately-detailed models.
- Location: Al Abrar area between Halwan Children Center and Sharjah Archaeology Authority
- Contact: +971-6-566-5466
- Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) | 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Friday)
Sharjah Art Museum
Observe collections from renowned artists at the Sharjah Art Museum. Opened in 1997, this stunning establishment houses masterpieces from popular local and Arab artists whose contributions have put the region’s art culture on the proverbial map. The establishment also holds a range of temporary art events throughout the year.
- Location: Al Shuwaihiyeen, Heart of Sharjah
- Contact: +971-6-568-8222
- Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) | 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Friday)
Sharjah Classic Cars Museum
This museum is particularly popular with visitors with a love for vintage cars. Opened in 2008, the Sharjah Classic Cars Museum is home to over 100 cars dating from the early 20th century, with the oldest model being of 1915 vintage!
From classic Mercedes to Rolls Royce, Chevrolet and Ford, the Sharjah Classic Cars Museum is a monument to the finest vehicle brands.
- Location: Airport Road, next to Sharjah International Airport
- Contact: +971-6-588-0222
- Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) | 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Friday)
Sharjah Heritage Museum
Reopened in the Heart of Sharjah in 2012, the Sharjah Heritage Museum is another popular establishment under the Sharjah Museums Authority. Apart from exhibits that show how the local residents lived in the past, the museum also chronicles how they celebrated ancient lifestyle events like marriage ceremonies. A series of puzzles, tales from folklore and other activities at the museum will also keep younger visitors happy and entertained.
- Location: Al Arsah souq, Heart of Sharjah
- Contact: +971-6-568-0006
- Opening hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Saturday to Thursday) | 04:00 pm to 08:00 pm (Friday)
Aside from the mentioned museums, other historical buildings under the patronage of the SMA include:
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
- Sharjah Science Museum
- Sharjah Heritage Museum
- Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn)
- Sharjah Discovery Centre
- Sharjah Aquarium
- Hisn Khor Fakkan
- Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi
Recommended museum routes
With so many historic places, visiting them all may seem overwhelming. Thankfully, courtesy of the Sharjah Museums Authority, visitors can tour their favourite museums by choosing any of three tour packages:
Exploring Sharjah’s History
This tour covers museums that showcase the emirate’s history, such as the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, Al Mahatta Museum and the Sharjah Fort.
An Art Lover’s Haven
Ideal for art enthusiasts, this tour covers trips to the Sharjah Art Museum, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.
Family Time at the Museums
As the name implies, this package is exclusively for families where visitors can engage in fun learning experiences, games and other activities. It also covers places like the Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Science Museum.
Those interested in the packages can visit the Sharjah Museums Authority’s official website for a complete list of the tours on offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Sharjah Museums Authority located?
The SMA government office in Sharjah is located at the following address:
- Sharjah Museums Authority Address: Al Layyeh Suburb (opposite of Sharjah Financial Department) – Sharjah
What is the Sharjah Museums Authority contact number?
Here is how you can get in touch with the SMA:
- Contact: +971-6-556-6002 | +971-6-556-6003
Can I bring my camera to the museums?
Only personal photography is allowed in museums in Sharjah. Those who want to shoot professional videos or take photographs for publications must fill in an online form which is available on the Sharjah Museums Authority’s official website
Will I need to book my ticket in advance before I visit a museum in Sharjah?
Sharjah museums only require advance bookings from schools, VIP groups, organisation visits and tourist groups.
Which museums in Sharjah are suitable for children?
These Sharjah museums are especially enjoyable for children:
- Sharjah Science Museum
- Sharjah Discovery Centre
- Sharjah Aquarium
Are the tickets for the museums available online?
No, visitors can only purchase tickets at the reception counters at the museums.
Are there any educational centres by the SMA?
Those interested in learning more about the country’s heritage can join any of these educational programmes offered by the Sharjah Museums Authority:
- SAWA Museum Academy
- Sharjah Museums Ambassador Programme
- Happy Holiday Camp
- Internship and Volunteer
- Research
- Interactive Learning
What languages are accommodated at Sharjah museums?
Museum tours in Sharjah are delivered in Arabic or English. However, tours in other languages may be available as audio guides.
What are the facilities available?
Museums in Sharjah offer several facilities for the convenience of guests. These include prayer rooms, free parking spaces, wheelchairs, baby changing facilities, Wifi facilities and restrooms.
Which museums are free to visit in Sharjah?
Currently, the Asl Eslah School Museum and Sharjah Art Museum offer free entry to visitors.
That is all we have for you on the Sharjah Museums Authority. For more insight into historical locations in the United Arab Emirates, stay tuned to MyBayut!
