Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Art museum in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization displays objects spanning from the 7th century to the 20th century across six galleries. The collections include scientific instruments, religious manuscripts, coins, ceramics, and textiles from across the Islamic world.
The museum began in 1996 as the Islamic Museum before moving to its current location in a former covered market. This relocation in 2008 allowed for expanded galleries and better conditions to display the collections.
The galleries showcase how Islamic art and craft evolved across different regions and time periods. Visitors can observe the role these objects played in daily life and religious practice, from decorative ceramics to written manuscripts.
The museum sits along the Al-Majarrah Waterfront and is easy to reach on foot from the old town area. Inside, you will find prayer rooms, a cafeteria, a gift shop, and accessible facilities for people with disabilities.
The central atrium features an elaborate mosaic depicting the night sky and zodiac symbols that catches visitors' eyes. Few people notice how this artistic space creates a moment of calm in the middle of exploring the galleries.
Location: Emirate of Sharjah
Inception: 2008
Website: https://sharjahmuseums.ae/Our-Museums/Sharjah-Museum-of-Islamic-Civilization.aspx
GPS coordinates: 25.36492,55.38922
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04
The United Arab Emirates feature an architectural landscape where modern structures coexist with historical remnants. In Dubai, the Burj Khalifa rises to 828 meters and is the tallest skyscraper in the world, while the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah demonstrates the country’s coastal engineering skills. In Abu Dhabi, the five Etihad Towers line the waterfront, and the Qasr Al Hosn, built in the 18th century, is the capital’s oldest stone building. These modern achievements sit on land that also preserves ancient traces, such as the tombs of Jebel Hafeet carved into the rock more than 5,000 years ago. Cultural and religious buildings round out this overview. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque covers over 22,000 square meters and invites visitors to explore its architecture and prayer halls. The Louvre Abu Dhabi displays international collections beneath a metal dome designed by Jean Nouvel, creating distinctive light effects inside. In Ajman, the local museum is housed in a restored 18th-century fortress, while the Dubai Opera takes the shape of a dhow, a traditional regional boat. These sites offer varied perspectives on the architectural development of the Emirates and merit thorough exploration.
The United Arab Emirates feature contemporary architectural achievements and monuments that reflect their heritage. Over a few decades, the country has developed infrastructures attracting millions of visitors: glass and steel towers redefining city skylines, international museums showcasing collections from various eras, custom-made islands spread across the Persian Gulf. Alongside these recent constructions, stone forts and mosques serve as reminders of the region's history and traditions.
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