Winter means cooler, stunning weather that makes for a perfect time for eating al fresco. All across Sharjah, the third largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there are gorgeous outdoor areas to enjoy exquisite food while basking in the winter sun or feeling the nip of the chill in the evenings. Here are some spots to enjoy a meal and have a memorable time in the great outdoors:
Al Majaz Waterfront
As you walk down the Sharjah Corniche, you’ll notice a hub of lively activity ahead on the Al Majaz Waterfront. A popular leisure destination in the city, it is home to cosy cafes and is a great spot for family outings and evening strolls. It is the perfect place for dinner with a host of restaurants to choose from and dhow cruise boats sailing by.
What’s more? Al Majaz Waterfront also boasts of a lush park to enjoy a picnic under the sun this winter with family or friends. While you enjoy chatting away and eating scrumptious food, kids can indulge themselves in the several attractions available for them here. As the ultimate destination for family attractions in the emirate, this waterside attraction features mini golf, a splash park, and a mini-train. A hit attraction for everyone, the Sharjah fountain periodically features an awe-inspiring light and sound display.
Al Qasba
Al Qasba is among the most popular places to visit in Sharjah, especially at night. It stretches along either side of the kilometre long Qasba Canal, which connects Khalid and Al Khan lagoons. Get set to indulge in some lip smacking delicacies here as the destination is packed with popular cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating. It also offers a wealth of activities for children and adults alike with cultural events and art and design museums.
Parents often pick Al Qasba to unwind at a cafe while their children enjoy the musical fountain, frolic at the kids’ fun zone and indoor soft play centre, or choose from the many activities.
The scenic route to reach Al Qabsa is on a boat ride from Al Noor Island. It is also easily accessible from the Sharjah bus station. You can hail a cab from a number of waiting Sharjah taxis or walk from the closest stop along the Sharjah bus route.
Mleiha
Mleiha is perfect for visitors looking for an authentic desert experience. Venture deep into the dunes of the Arabian Desert, catch the amazing sunset views at Camel Rock and then tuck into a sumptuous barbecue dinner at camp.
A UNESCO-nominated World Heritage Site in the Central Region of the Sharjah map, Mleiha is home to a number of significant sites, including Bronze Age tombs and pre-Islamic forts. There are also several opportunities for adventure in the area with trekking, hiking, dune bashing, quad bike riding or even paragliding from the highest peaks in Mleiha. Visitors love to spend a night under the stars in Mleiha surrounded by picturesque sand dune formations.