10 ways to spend your 5-day UAE National Day weekend in Sharjah

Dubai: Good news for Sharjah's residents – you've got a proper five-day break coming up!

The Sharjah Human Resources Department has confirmed that UAE National Day holidays will be observed on Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with work resuming on Wednesday, December 3. Combined with the usual Friday weekend, that's five full days off to explore everything the emirate has to offer.

Whether you're a resident looking to play tourist in your own backyard or visiting from elsewhere in the UAE, Sharjah is absolutely packed with things to do. From heritage houses and classic cars to mangrove forests and actual safaris, there's something for everyone. Here's how to make the most of your extended National Day weekend without even leaving the emirate.

If you like a bit of treasure hunting, this 100-year-old heritage house on Al Merraijja Square is packed with colourful keepsakes from around the world. Founded by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, it's part boutique, part tea terrace, and completely charming. The rooms wrap around a stunning courtyard with a fountain and gorgeous jade Moroccan tiles. Pop into Soghat Elowal for ethical crafts, then relax at Al Marmas tea terrace. It feels more like visiting a friend's impossibly stylish home than shopping.

If you've got car enthusiasts in the family, this is your spot. Over 100 beautifully preserved vintage vehicles are on display, including a 1915 Dodge 30 and a rare 1969 Mercedes Pullman Limousine custom-made for Sharjah's ruler. The exhibitions chart automotive history from penny farthings onwards, with vintage posters and ads throughout. Kids will love the interactive areas and driving simulator.

Come evening, head to Al Qasba's canalside area for that perfect holiday vibe. Pedestrianised promenades connect across picturesque bridges, lined with cafes, restaurants and colourful fountains that light up at night. The atmosphere is brilliant, especially after dark. Hop on an abra for a different perspective from the water, or simply wander the walkways with an ice cream in hand. It's one of Sharjah's most vibrant neighbourhoods and perfect for a leisurely evening out.

Just off Sharjah's coast sits this tiny nature-filled haven – a proper escape from city life. The island's covered in lush gardens and has a Butterfly House where kids can learn about butterfly lifecycles and try their hand at butterfly keeping. If you fancy something more zen then join a sunrise yoga session or stroll the tranquil walkways. There's also a Literature Centre on-site. It's the perfect spot when you need a breather from urban life.

If you've got little ones aged 3-12, this place is a lifesaver. Seven themed areas spark scientific curiosity whilst keeping them thoroughly entertained. They can experiment at Water World, drive mini-electric cars at Sports World, tackle climbing walls, build with giant blocks, and join storytelling sessions. It's proper edutainment (education + entertainment) they'll be learning without even realising it. Perfect for burning off energy when the adults need a break from constant activity.

Sharjah Safari is absolutely massive, with 12 different environments inspired by Africa's diverse landscapes. Trek through areas mimicking everything from the Sahel deserts to the Serengeti plains, spotting wildlife from across the continent. Watch out for the Mara River crossing where Nile crocodiles lurk. The Nkorongoro crater area is particularly stunning. After your safari adventure, relax by the natural lake surrounded by restaurants and cafes. It's a full day out, but completely worth it.

This transformed community hub is brilliantly quirky. The outdoor space hosts social events, performances and art installations, whilst underground you'll find the "Launch Pad" with its Green Crater – a sunken circular courtyard filled with plants and light. There's also Sharjah's first public art library (Arabic and English books available), perfect for curious readers and art enthusiasts. Regular programmes include film screenings, workshops and readings. Pop into Fen Café for fusion cuisine and excellent coffee.

Make the scenic drive to Khorfakkan on the east coast for something spectacular. The Roman-inspired amphitheatre is stunning – it seats 3,500 people and has a state-of-the-art cooling system. Next to it, a magnificent 45-metre waterfall cascades down carved rock (it's man-made but looks completely natural and lights up at night). Both face the shimmering bay, so you can wander along the beach before or after. There's a restaurant and café if you fancy a bite.

Another east coast gem worth the drive. The Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre sits amongst the oldest mangrove forest in the Emirates with some trees reaching 8 metres tall. Take the outdoor tour to spot the rare Arabian Collared Kingfisher, green turtles, crabs and various fish. The area's known for its natural landscape and biodiversity, making it perfect for nature lovers. It's a peaceful escape and the kids will love spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.

Need some retail therapy or fancy catching a film. This massive shopping venue spreads across four levels with everything you could want. There's a huge Carrefour Hypermarket, VOX Cinemas with the latest technology, and Magic Planet for family entertainment. The food court offers loads of dining options from well-known brands to more exclusive spots. It's designed for easy navigation, so you won't get lost. Perfect for when you need air-con and shopping bags.