Less than an hour’s drive from Sharjah city, you’ll find the country’s most important archaeological sites at Mleiha, mighty sand dunes like Big Red at Al Badayer, and farming towns like Al Dhaid that reflect the rich heritage and history of UAE. You can choose to delve into pre-Islamic history, or go trekking, dune bashing, or quad bike riding through open desert. The centre of the emirate is also home to small villages, where Bedouin culture is still prominent. There are several desert safari tours that come to Sharjah’s central region, where guides can show you the best spots to set up camp.
Destination by Sightseeing
Al Dhaid
The heart of Sharjah’s hinterland, Al Dhaid is known for its date palm plantations irrigated by water from the nearby Hajar Mountains via centuries-old falaj channels. Fruits and vegetables also abound, including strawberries, limes, guava and mangoes.
The Camel Race Track holds races in the winter months, usually early in the morning on Thursdays and Fridays. Make sure to stop by the Friday Market in Fujeirah, which is actually open every day, to shop for local pottery, carpets, plants, dried fish, fruit and vegetables.
Al Badayer
A hidden oasis on the Sharjah map, Al Badayer is a preferred destination among 4×4 enthusiasts. This destination has the UAE’s most impressive dunes, including the famous ‘Big Red’. With dune driving, dune-bashing, quad biking and an endless number of dunes, Al Badayer has enough adventure to keep you occupied from sunrise to sunset. If you’re a thrill-seeking newcomer, take on a beginner dune by renting a dirt bike or choosing a service for buggy rentals.
Travellers of all ages can also enjoy this destination. If you’re thinking of things to do with kids here, consider hiking, watching the sunset over the dunes or having a desert camp under the glittering stars. You can also choose from several desert safari tours to this area for a thrilling family experience, especially for the children. Keep an eye out for the Al Badayer Oasis, an extensive desert resort that is set to open soon. It is designed as an old oasis town nestled among palm trees for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Mleiha
Mleiha, a UNESCO-nominated World Heritage Site in the Central Region of the Sharjah map, is home to a number of significant sites, including Bronze Age tombs and pre-Islamic forts. Fascinating artifacts and fossils were discovered here, including pottery, iron tools and camel skeletons. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which opened in 2016, houses these discoveries and even more artifacts that uncover ancient UAE history.
The centre also offers a range of tours and activities. You can explore the archaeological sites or venture into the sand dunes with a desert safari. Alternatively, you can also try other desert adventures like riding a quad bike or dune buggy over the sand. If you prefer to go on foot, consider trekking to Camel Rock for an expansive view of the desert. The surrounding area is a beautiful location for a desert camp on soft dunes and under glittering night stars.
