Sharjah

Sharjah is the third largest city in the United Arab Emirates, and is the only one to have land on both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.  it comprises the city of Sharjah (the seat of the government), and other minor towns and enclaves. The city of Sharjah has a population of over 940,000.

The Sharjah International Book Fair is one of the showcase events of the Government of Sharjah and, with a history of 33 years, this event goes beyond a typical book exhibition to give an insider’s glimpse at authentic Arab culture.

 

While you discover more of culture, tradition and history in Sharjah, here are a few things that you may want to keep in mind, as you move around the venue.

 

Currency: The Dirham (pronounced: Dir-hum) is the local currency and is composed of 100 fils. One US $=3.675 Dirhams.

The Dirham denominations are: Coins: 25 fils, 50 fils, 1 Dh. Notes:  5 Dhs, 10 Dhs, 50 Dhs, 100 Dhs, 200 Dhs, 500 Dhs, 1000 Dhs

 

Dining, Sports, Recreation: Hotels, restaurants and coffee shops provide a delightful choice of Arabic and International cuisine. There are also a number of health clubs and wellness spas in and around Sharjah.

 

Driving licenses and Car Hire: International and European driving license holders are permitted to drive in the UAE during their visit.

 

Electricity: 220 volts-50HZ AC. Hotels supply adaptors on request.

 

Languages: Arabic (official) and English (commercial). Other regional languages are also widely spoken because of the presence of a large expatriate population.

 

Media: Arabic and English newspapers are available. Local and International magazines are abundant. Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman TV stations transmit in Arabic, English, French and Urdu, in addition to satellite channels and AM and FM stations.

 

Places of Interest: The Sharjah Souk, Al Qasba, Al Muntazah, Al Buhairah Corniche, Khalid Lagoon, Rolla Square, Fish Market, Al Hisn Fort, Al Naboodah House, The Museum of Natural History as well as many others.

 

Taxis: Taxis are the most common means of transport and they are readily available day and night. A taxi can be hailed or one can be requested through a hotline: 600 52 52 52.

 

Telephone: Direct dialing to most countries is available and public telephone booths are located around the city. Local calls are free. Fax, Internet, paging and mobile networks are widely used.

UAE Country Code: +971

 

Abu Dhabi: 2

Al Ain: 3

Dubai: 4

Ajman: 6

Sharjah: 6

Umm-Al Quwain: 6

Ras Al Khaimah: 7

Fujairah: 9

 

Time: GMT +4