What’s great about living in Sharjah?
Toaa Bakr, Egyptian, Office Manager: Sharjah is my home; I grew up here and lived a beautiful childhood. The best thing about Sharjah is that it is very family-friendly. It’s a lovely place to raise children and it has great schools and universities that I have been proud to be part of. I would love to even raise my own children here one day.
An interesting piece of Sharjah’s history?
Umar M. Yousaf, Pakistani, Business Analysis Manager: There was a huge British airstrip behind the mobile roundabout in Sharjah but everything is now covered up with buildings. When I would roam around the area as a kid, I even saw the remains of old aeroplanes. It always had the heritage of the Arabian peninsula written strongly in the architecture, which now seems to have faded away with more glass structures and buildings.
What are the misconceptions about the emirate?
Monica Tomar, Indian, Corporate Communications: The biggest misconception is that people live in extremely crammed spaces and at a hectic pace, which is far from reality. Sharjah has some of the most spacious apartments I have seen. I live on the Corniche and it’s peaceful. I wake up to a beautiful sight every morning. The most important thing for me is that I can cut off from the buzz of Dubai. If I lived and worked in Dubai, I’d never leave work!
Top tips for visitors?
Mohammad Ali, Egyptian, General Manager of Swiss-Belhotel Sharjah: My family and I enjoy dining in Qanat Al Qasba and the Majaz Waterfront because there are lots of great restaurants and beautiful views that surround them. The old souk is great for shopping, especially for antiques, rugs and carpets. You can easily bargain to get a good price for high-quality authentic products. The best attractions to visit are the Sharjah Art Foundation and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation.
What is society like in Sharjah?
Elroque Pereira, Indian, Store Supervisor at Rivoli Group: Sharjah is fairly conservative in comparison with Dubai so that should be respected. It’s a good idea to try and find out what is permitted in this emirate from a Sharjah resident.
Best local event or attraction?
Syed Hammad Mumtaz, Pakistani, Student: The best local event is the light festival. It lights up the city’s monuments and is a truly spectacular show. Buhaira Corniche has a lot of events that take place as well and is a great place to relax and unwind.
How long will you stay in Sharjah?
Jenny Collins, British, Senior Manager — Payroll: I’ll live in Sharjah for as long as I’m in the UAE. I can’t see myself back in the glitz and glam of Dubai as it ran its course for me and is too fake, but if I keep on about how wonderful Sharjah is, more people will move there and take advantage of the cheaper rent, and my commute will get worse!
