Mega Mall opened on February 17, 2002 land marking the Emirate of Sharjah’s retail sector, and becoming one of the leading retail and leisure destinations in the UAE. It is one of the largest malls in the UAE at 800,000 sq. ft. spanning across four floors.

City Centre Sharjah is located in the heart of Sharjah, along the main Al Wahda Street. Developed and managed by Majid Al Futtaim Properties, the centre has recently undergone a transformation to become a Regional Shopping and Entertainment destination. The mall offers an elevated and holistic customer experience with a brand new retail mix of 143 value-oriented and trendy international stores, diverse dining concepts and Sharjah’s first 12-screen VOX Cinemas with GOLD by Rhodes for a premium moviegoing experience. Other leisure and entertainment facilities in the mall include a Magic Planet family centre and 10 fast food outlets, positioning City Centre Sharjah as one of the dominant shopping malls in the region for smart shopping, varied cuisines and unique entertainment that cater to residents and tourists.

To step in to Sharjah’s Old Souq is to enter a bygone era. In an Emirate dotted with ultra modern buildings, the Old Souq is an island of traditional architecture.

The narrow streets are chock-a-block with shoppers hunting for a good bargain and the air is filled with the fragrance of burning oud (incense) from the perfume shops.

There’s a lot to discover in the 25-year-old Souq. There’s Al Daleel Mosque – the oldest mosque in the city, and some retail stores where customers can find good bargains on clothes and food; there’s Sara Shopping Centre – a one-stop shore for women, and many more astonishing attractions that will appeal to visitors.

With over 600 shops across two levels, you’ll find everything from modern watches and clothing to authentically local trinkets and souvenirs. For decor connoisseurs in particular, the souk is one of the must-do Sharjah tourist places. The upper level has shops featuring arts, crafts and regional specialties like handwoven textiles and intricate carpets and kilims. On the lagoon-side, you’ll find a glittering row of shops dedicated to authentic Bedouin jewelry, precious stones, gold and diamonds. Some craftsmen here can recreate a design based on just a sketch.

he Friday Market is a lively example of UAE culture, and shopping here is one of the popular things to do with children. Even if your family doesn’t have a shopping list, come for light food and drink before setting off on a dhow cruise, scuba diving or going on other adventures in the area. It is easy to access with stalls running right along the roadside, selling enticing grilled corn and coconut water straight from the husk.

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront and explore the shops offering an assortment of products – spices and herbs, henna, clothes and textiles, perfumes and oils, spices and fragrances, palm leaf baskets, Sheesha (water pipes) and flavored tobaccos. There are also larger stores selling Arabic clothing and accessories, cosmetics and perfumes, and a number of ladies’ tailors specializing in national, bridal and beaded clothes. This area is ideal for those in search of an authentic ambience and is a photographer’s paradise from every angle.