The best museums in Sharjah in 2026 include the Sharjah Art Museum in Al Shuwaihean, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization on the Corniche, the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, the Sharjah Heritage Museum in the Heart of Sharjah and the Sharjah Aquarium in Al Khan.
Sharjah is known as the UAE's cultural capital, and the Sharjah Museums Authority says it runs 16 museums covering Islamic civilization, contemporary art, archaeology, maritime history, science and heritage. Many are inexpensive and some are free, so a day or two goes a long way. Opening hours and closing days vary, so check each museum's page before you go.
A free art museum in the Heart of Sharjah.
Sharjah Art Museum is in Al Shuwaihean in Sharjah. Its website says admission is free and lists normal hours of Saturday to Thursday.
It suits art fans who want a free, low-key visit.
Good to know: Check the site for current exhibitions and hours.
Sharjah Art Museum, Al Shuwaihean, Sharjah, UAE
A museum of Islamic civilization on the Corniche.
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is at 131 Al Corniche Street in Mujarrah, per local listings. It is run by the Sharjah Museums Authority.
It suits visitors who want an introduction to Islamic history and art.
Good to know: Check Sharjah Museums Authority for current hours.
131 Al Corniche Street, Mujarrah, Al Sharq, Sharjah, UAE
A museum of archaeological finds spanning 500,000 years.
Sharjah Archaeology Museum shows artifacts spanning 500,000 years, according to Visit Sharjah, which calls it home to the UAE's most significant discoveries.
It suits history fans.
Good to know: Check opening hours on Sharjah Museums Authority.
Sharjah Archaeology Museum, Sharjah, UAE
A heritage museum opposite Souk Al Arsa.
Sharjah Heritage Museum is in the Heart of Sharjah heritage district, opposite Souk Al Arsa and next to Bait Al Naboodah, according to Visit Sharjah.
It suits visitors interested in Emirati traditions.
Good to know: Combine it with a walk through Souk Al Arsa.
Heart of Sharjah, opposite Souk Al Arsa, Sharjah, UAE
A compact aquarium on Khalid Lagoon focused on Gulf marine life.
Sharjah Aquarium is on Al Khan 2 Street by the lagoon and focuses on Gulf marine life. It is twinned with the Maritime Museum.
It suits families with children.
Good to know: Check the site for hours and ticket details.
1C1, Al Khan 2 Street, Al Khan, Sharjah, UAE
The Sharjah Museums Authority says it has 16 museums, covering Islamic civilization, art, archaeology, maritime history, science and heritage.
Its website says admission to the museum is free.
In the Heart of Sharjah heritage district, opposite Souk Al Arsa and next to Bait Al Naboodah, according to Visit Sharjah.
Some have different Friday hours. Check each museum's page.