DRMumbai: Armed with a rich trading history, Sharjah now teems with shops and markets. ‘Souks’ have been restored and modernised to suit the needs of tourists, as well as the locals. Along with these developments, the Emirate also offers many modern malls with a range of top brands and entertainment options such as multiplexes, amusement rides and play centres.
Sahara Center, situated at Al Nahda Street, is the biggest mall in Sharjah. Besides housing all the major global brands in fashion, home decor and electronics the mall is known for its movie theatres and popular entertainment centre, known as ‘Adventureland’.
Sharjah City Centre in Al Wahda Road is spread across 38,000 sq m, and features over 120 international brands. Here, too, one will find a kid’s entertainment centre and cineplex. A recent expansion with even more shops, dining options and a sophisticated, contemporary design means that this mall is even more enticing.
Mega Mall is conveniently located in the heart of Sharjah at Abu Shagara. Opened in 2002, Mega Mall was a historical landmark in the Emirate’s retail sector and remains one of the leading retail and leisure destinations in Sharjah. It is one of the largest malls in Sharjah at 800000 sq. ft. spanning across four floors, full of fashion forward clothing, accessory and beauty emporiums.
Zero 6 is the Emirate’s lifestyle destination. The go-to venue for families looking for unique entertainment, leisure, shopping and fitness activities closer to home and under one roof. Zero 6 combines a sophisticated contemporary design with a diverse selection of dining, retail and leisure attractions.
The souks of Sharjah are unique and charming and the perfect places to bargain for unbeatable prices. The Central Souk, one of the most recognised landmarks of the Emirate, can be distinguished by its blue domes. The souk has fantastic antiques, souvenirs, pashminas, Iranian carpets and a variety of other exciting wares.
Visiting the souks is a great way for tourists to purchase unusual gift items and also enjoy traditional Arabic culture. Souk Al Arsah, the oldest souk in the region, is a must-visit for those shoppers who wish for a unique experience. It has been sensitively restored and displays a nostalgic, intriguing atmosphere.
Shopping in Sharjah extends to yet other lively market area, of which, a favourite is the Souk Al Shanasiyah, one of Sharjah’s traditional market areas that has been rebuilt to encompass the traditional and the modern, housing locally inspired gift items in the traditional coral brick buildings. Souk al Shanasiyah is to be found in the Heart of Sharjah, one of the largest heritage developments in the Middle East.
