It is the biggest of Sharjah markets, built
according to Islamic design. Its location on the famous Khaled
Lagoon enhances its beauty and magnificence.
The
market comprises of two wings connected with tunnels - like
overhead bridges. One wing is designated for all kinds of
goods, gifts and electronics, while the other is designated
for a series of gold, gems and jewelry shops.
The Souq
offers 600 air-conditioned shops to discover and an expansive
area to stroll around. Wide central stairways and a number of
narrow staircases, give access to the upper floors, which
consist of close passages running along shop fronts.
The upstairs atmosphere is that of a real bazaar as
opposed to the open plan ground floor. The feeling that one
may stumble across a real find prevails.
The Central
Souq is maintained by the Sharjah Municipality.
The
upper floors (especially the ones closest to the Khaled
Lagoon) are very popular with tourists. There are a number of
antique and pseudo antique shops, a large selection of fine
rugs, silver jewelry, Omani and Yemeni antique jewelry and
subcontinent curios, artifacts and more.
The lower
floors specialize in gold jewelry, precious stones, perfumes,
textiles, cosmetics, cassettes, cameras, garments & other
household items. New curio shops are opening all the time.
The side facing the Khaled Lagoon runs through
4 building blocks (Nos. 1, 4, 5, 8) offering : Jewelry (gold,
silver, precious stones), Carpets and rugs Arts, crafts &
curios, Antiques, Music tapes and CDs, Cameras and other
photographic materials, Rosewood furniture, Perfumes and
cosmetics, Tablecloths and household items, Money changers,
etc.
The shops in the parallel
side facing the King Faisal Mosque (Nos. 2, 3, 6, 7) sell:
Textile and bridal items, Clothes and lingerie, Children's
garments, Perfumes and cosmetics, Shoes, Handbags, Modern
crafts, good quality winter woolens, Leather and suede
jackets. Etc.
As you cross the two bridges linking the
Souq, you will find silver shops, engravers, Yemeni jewelry
and more.
Location
Al Majaz, end of the Corniche Road,
close to Khaled Lagoon.
Description
600 assorted shops
Timings
Daily ( except Friday ) 9 am to 1 pm
and 4 pm to 11 pm. Friday, closed from 12 noon to 4 pm.
Parking
Available all around the Souq
Facilities
Several shops sell fresh juices,
crisps, popcorn and ice cream. Limited toilet facilities
Note
All major credit cards, travelers
checks & US$ accepted. Cash might give you better
bargains.