Sharjah National Park
Name of the park: Sharjah National Park
Location: شارع الذيد – E88, Al Qarayen, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (near Sharjah International Airport and University City)
Size: 155.68 acres (63 hectares, 0.63 km²) — largest park in Sharjah
Opening hours / closing days: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM; no regular closing days
Entry fee: AED 2 per person (subject to change; children under certain ages may enter free)
Type of Park
What Makes Sharjah National Park Special?
Sharjah National Park is more than just a green space — it is a beloved urban retreat that reflects the emirate’s commitment to preserving nature and offering residents and visitors a peaceful recreational environment. Opened to the public in the 1980s, the park holds the title of the largest public park in Sharjah, symbolizing the city’s early efforts to balance rapid urban development with environmental consciousness.
One of the unique features of Sharjah National Park is its blend of beautifully landscaped gardens, palm-lined walkways, and spacious lawns designed for families and groups to gather, relax, and enjoy outdoor activities. The park has a family-friendly vibe, with a gentle, peaceful atmosphere that makes it a go-to spot for picnics, weekend outings, and children’s play. You’ll find miniature replicas of Sharjah’s iconic landmarks, which give it a touch of heritage charm alongside modern recreational facilities.
The vibe here is calm and inviting — it’s not overly commercialized or packed with rides, but instead offers a more authentic, community-centered experience. Whether it’s children playing on swings, families barbecuing under shaded gazebos, or fitness enthusiasts walking the tracks, Sharjah National Park feels like a green heart in the middle of the city.
Park Highlights & Attractions
Sharjah National Park is packed with attractions and facilities that cater to visitors of all ages, making it one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the emirate. Below is a detailed look at what you can expect when you visit.
Walking Trails
The park features well-maintained walking and jogging trails that stretch for approximately 3.5 kilometers in total length, looping around the park’s perimeter and weaving through its gardens and shaded areas. These trails are wide, paved, and suitable for walking, jogging, or cycling, with benches and rest spots placed at intervals for relaxation. The trails are accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels and are especially popular in the mornings and evenings when the temperatures are cooler.
Facilities along the trails include:
Shaded sections with palm trees and pergolas
Drinking water fountains
Benches and sitting areas
Clear directional signage and maps
Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones
Sharjah National Park offers three dedicated playgrounds, each designed for specific age groups to ensure safe and enjoyable play.
Toddler Zone (ages 2–5 years):
Small slides, swings with safety belts, spring riders, and low climbing frames
Soft rubber flooring for added safety
Shaded seating nearby for parents and guardians
Junior Kids’ Zone (ages 6–10 years):
Larger slides, monkey bars, rope bridges, and spinning equipment
Sand and grass play areas
Shaded benches and picnic spots close to the playground
Teen Activity Zone (ages 11–15 years):
Basketball court, outdoor gym equipment, skate area, and open grass fields for football and frisbee
Surrounding seating for families to watch or rest
All playgrounds are equipped with shaded areas, trash bins, and are regularly maintained to ensure cleanliness and safety.
Gardens & Green Spaces
The park is home to expansive green lawns and beautifully designed gardens, offering both ornamental and native plant species. Key highlights include:
Palm-lined avenues and shady tree groves perfect for picnics and quiet relaxation
Flower beds and seasonal displays featuring hibiscus, bougainvillea, and desert-adapted plants
Miniature heritage models of Sharjah’s landmarks (like Al Hisn Fort) placed throughout the gardens, adding an educational and cultural element
Dedicated family sections with gazebos, barbecue pits, and picnic tables, where families can gather for meals and celebrations
There are separate sections reserved for families only, ensuring privacy and a peaceful environment away from the general crowd. These sections are especially popular on weekends and public holidays, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot.
Lakes & Water Features
Although Sharjah National Park does not have large natural lakes, it features several artificial ponds and fountains that enhance the beauty and tranquility of the space.
Central pond with a small footbridge, perfect for photos and quiet strolls
Decorative fountains near the main entrance, surrounded by landscaped flower beds
Small water channels running through parts of the garden, adding a refreshing touch to the scenery
These water features not only beautify the park but also create a cooling atmosphere, particularly pleasant during the hotter months. While boating or water sports are not available, the water features serve as lovely backdrops for picnics and leisurely walks.
Facilities & Amenities
Sharjah National Park is thoughtfully designed with a wide range of facilities and amenities to ensure visitors have a comfortable, enjoyable, and hassle-free experience. Below is a detailed breakdown of what’s available, what’s free, and where small additional charges may apply.
Restrooms & Drinking Water
Restrooms:
There are three main restroom blocks located across the park — near the main entrance, beside the children’s playground area, and near the family picnic sections. All restrooms are free to use and maintained regularly for cleanliness. They include separate sections for men and women, and one of the blocks near the entrance has accessible toilets for visitors with disabilities.Drinking Water:
The park provides free drinking water fountains at various points, especially near the walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic zones. Visitors are also allowed to bring their own water bottles or purchase bottled water from the on-site kiosks (small bottles typically cost AED 1–2).
Parking & Accessibility
Parking:
There is a large parking lot at the main entrance, offering around 200 vehicle spaces, including 10 dedicated spots for people with disabilities.Parking charges: Free for all visitors; no additional fee applies.
On weekends and public holidays, the parking area can get busy, so early arrival is recommended.
Accessibility:
The park is wheelchair accessible, with paved, smooth walkways, ramps at curbs, and accessible restroom facilities. Some of the gazebos and picnic areas also have step-free access, making them suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges.
Food & Beverages
Picnic & Barbecue Facilities:
Sharjah National Park allows visitors to bring their own food and beverages. There are dedicated barbecue areas with built-in grills and picnic tables, available on a first-come, first-served basis.Charges: Free to use; visitors only need to bring their own charcoal and utensils.
On-Site Kiosks & Vendors:
There are two small food kiosks inside the park selling snacks, ice cream, soft drinks, bottled water, tea, and coffee. Typical prices are:Bottled water: AED 1–2
Soft drinks: AED 3–5
Snacks (chips, biscuits): AED 2–5
Ice cream: AED 5–10
Tea/Coffee: AED 3–5
No Full Restaurants or Cafeterias:
Visitors looking for full meals will need to bring their own food or dine outside the park, as the park itself does not have restaurants or large food courts.
Activities & Things to Do
Sharjah National Park is not just a place to stroll — it offers a variety of engaging activities designed for families, fitness enthusiasts, children, and even culture lovers. Below is a detailed, specific look at what you can do inside the park, with clear notes on what’s free and what may carry an extra cost.
Sports & Fitness
Basketball Court:
The park features a full-size outdoor basketball court, located near the teen activity zone. It’s open to all visitors on a first-come, first-served basis and is free to use — no booking or additional charge required. Visitors should bring their own basketballs.Outdoor Gym Equipment:
Near the walking trails, you’ll find a dedicated outdoor fitness area with machines for cardio, stretching, and strength exercises (like elliptical trainers, leg presses, pull-up bars). This area is free to access and popular with morning joggers and evening fitness groups.Jogging & Cycling:
The 3.5 km looped walking trail around the park is used not only by walkers but also by joggers and casual cyclists. If you bring your own bicycle, you can cycle here at no extra charge. The park does not offer bicycle rentals, so you need to bring your own.
Picnicking
Picnic Lawns & Shaded Gazebos:
One of the park’s most loved features is its large, grassy picnic areas surrounded by palm trees, as well as shaded gazebos with tables. Families and friends often bring their own mats, food, and beverages for a relaxing outdoor meal.Charges: Free to use (first-come, first-served); no reservation system.
Barbecue Stations:
The dedicated barbecue zones come with built-in grills and nearby seating areas. Visitors need to bring their own barbecue supplies — charcoal, fire starters, utensils, and food.Charges: Free to use; only personal expenses apply.
Playtime for Kids:
While adults picnic, children can enjoy the three separate playgrounds nearby, making it easy to keep the family entertained without any extra fees.
Events & Festivals
Public Events (Seasonal Festivals):
During certain times of the year, the Sharjah Municipality and local organizations host public events and festivals in the park, including:UAE National Day Celebrations: Live music, children’s activities, and cultural performances (usually free to attend)
Spring Festival: Garden exhibitions, flower displays, and family workshops (some paid workshops, typically AED 10–20 per child)
Fitness Campaigns: Free Zumba, yoga, or aerobics sessions organized by local fitness brands like Fitness First or Gold’s Gym on special health days
Private Event Bookings:
Families or companies can also book sections of the park for private birthday parties, school outings, or corporate events. Booking is done through Sharjah Municipality.Charges: Start from AED 200–500, depending on group size and area reserved (usually includes a gazebo, tables, and cleaning services).
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
Sharjah National Park operates on a fixed daily schedule but adjusts its timings slightly during special periods such as Ramadan, Eid, and national holidays to accommodate visitors’ needs. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Regular Days (Saturday – Thursday):
8:00 AM – 10:00 PMFridays:
8:00 AM – 11:00 PM (extended evening hours to accommodate family gatherings after prayers)During Ramadan:
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (closed afternoon) and 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM (post-Iftar hours)During Eid Holidays (Eid Al Fitr & Eid Al Adha):
8:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight), with festive activities and extended servicesUAE National Day & Independence Days:
8:00 AM – 12:00 AM, often with special events and performancesSummer Hours (June – August):
8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, with shaded areas and cooling stations preparedWinter Hours (November – February):
8:00 AM – 10:30 PM, as it’s peak outdoor season and families spend longer evenings in the park
Note: On busy public holidays, parking and entrance queues can get long, so early arrival is recommended.
Entry Fees
Sharjah National Park is known for its affordable entry, making it accessible to everyone:
Entry fee per person: AED 2
Children under 2 years: Free
People of determination (with valid card): Free
Family Day (designated Mondays): Entry reserved for families only; same fee applies (AED 2 per person), but no solo men or bachelor groups allowed on this day to maintain a family-friendly environment
Sharjah Park Entry Card (Annual Pass): Available through Sharjah Municipality for regular visitors at approximately AED 100 per year, covering unlimited entries
Rules & Regulations
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, the park enforces several clear rules:
✅ Allowed:
Bringing your own food and drinks
Using the picnic and barbecue areas (must bring your own supplies)
Casual sports like football, basketball, frisbee
Photography for personal use
❌ Not Allowed:
Loudspeakers, large sound systems, or amplified music
Pets inside the park
Motorized vehicles (including e-scooters) on walking trails
Littering — trash must be disposed of in the provided bins
Smoking in children’s play areas and near family sections
Special Rules for Family Day (Monday):
Only families or mixed groups allowed; groups of solo men or bachelors are politely denied entry to maintain the family atmosphere
Ramadan & Eid Etiquette:
No eating, drinking, or smoking in public areas before Iftar during fasting hours in Ramadan
Respectful dress code is encouraged, especially during religious or national events
How to Get There
By Car
Sharjah National Park is located on شارع الذيد – E88, Al Qarayen, Sharjah, very close to Sharjah International Airport and easily accessible by car from all major Emirates.
From Dubai:
Take Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) or Emirates Road (E611), then exit onto Al Dhaid Road (E88) towards Sharjah International Airport. The drive typically takes 30–40 minutes from central Dubai, depending on traffic. Taxi fare from Dubai is approximately AED 70–90 one way.From Ajman:
Follow Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road south, merge onto Al Dhaid Road (E88). Travel time is about 20 minutes, with taxi fare around AED 40–50.From Abu Dhabi:
Take Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road (E11) or Emirates Road (E611), then connect to Al Dhaid Road (E88). The trip can take 1.5–2 hours, with taxi fare roughly AED 250–300.
There are no tolls directly at the park, but Salik tolls apply if driving through Dubai (AED 4 per crossing).
By Public Transport
While there’s no direct metro station to Sharjah National Park (as the Dubai Metro network doesn’t extend to Sharjah), you can combine bus and taxi to get there:
From Dubai by Bus:
Take a bus (like E700 or E315) from Dubai to Sharjah Al Jubail Bus Station. From there, you can take a local taxi to the park, which is about a 20-minute ride and costs AED 20–30.From Sharjah City Center:
Local buses from Sharjah’s main terminals run towards Al Dhaid Road, but they don’t stop directly at the park. It’s more practical to take a taxi or Careem/Uber directly, which costs around AED 15–25 from central Sharjah.Nearest Metro (Dubai side):
The Rashidiya Metro Station (Red Line) in Dubai is the closest metro point. From Rashidiya, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service, which takes 30–35 minutes to reach the park and costs around AED 60–80.
Parking Details
Sharjah National Park has a large, dedicated parking lot right next to its main entrance, with the following details:
Capacity: ~200 cars, including 10 designated disabled/accessible parking spots
Charges: Completely free of cost for all visitors
Availability:
Weekdays (morning/early afternoon): Plenty of parking available
Evenings and weekends: Fills up quickly, especially between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM, so early arrival is recommended
Public holidays and festivals (like Eid, National Day): Best to arrive before 4:00 PM to secure a parking spot, or you may need to wait for spaces to free up
There’s also overflow parking on nearby streets, but those are less shaded and further from the main gate. No valet parking or paid premium spots are available — it’s all general parking and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Nearby Attractions
Here’s a list of popular attractions near Sharjah National Park, with a short description of each — and why Sharjah National Park might still be the better option for many visitors.
1️⃣ Sharjah Discovery Centre
A fun, interactive science and learning center designed for children aged 3–12. It features hands-on exhibits on physics, nature, mechanics, and technology.
👉 Why the park is better: While Discovery Centre is great for kids, it’s an indoor attraction with limited outdoor space. Sharjah National Park offers fresh air, open lawns, and play areas that let kids run, explore nature, and socialize in a bigger, more natural setting — perfect for families wanting to combine education and outdoor fun.
2️⃣ Sharjah Classic Cars Museum
A museum displaying a collection of over 100 vintage cars, motorcycles, and bicycles dating back to the early 20th century. It’s a must-see for car enthusiasts.
👉 Why the park is better: The museum is fascinating but is mostly an indoor, static experience. At the park, you can combine leisure, sports, picnics, and heritage models, making it more interactive and engaging, especially for families or mixed-age groups.
3️⃣ Sharjah International Airport (Viewing Zone)
For aviation fans, there’s a small area near the airport where visitors can watch planes take off and land.
👉 Why the park is better: The viewing area is niche and short-lived entertainment, whereas the park offers hours of activities, from sports and playgrounds to walking trails and gardens, catering to everyone, not just plane spotters.
4️⃣ Sharjah Botanical Garden (University City area)
A smaller, peaceful garden space focused on local plant species, popular with students and residents of University City.
👉 Why the park is better: While beautiful, the botanical garden is much smaller, with no playgrounds, sports areas, or barbecue facilities. Sharjah National Park, by contrast, combines gardens with family and sports facilities, making it more versatile for both relaxation and recreation.
5️⃣ Al Qasba (10–15 min drive away)
A waterfront destination featuring restaurants, cafés, the Eye of the Emirates Wheel, and boat rides — great for dining and leisure.
👉 Why the park is better: Al Qasba is a more commercial, expensive outing, where you pay for food, rides, and activities. Sharjah National Park is budget-friendly (AED 2 entry), with the freedom to bring your own food, and offers a natural environment away from commercial crowds.
6️⃣ Sharjah Desert Park (approx. 25–30 min drive)
Includes a natural history museum, Arabian Wildlife Center, and a petting zoo — great for wildlife lovers.
👉 Why the park is better: Desert Park is excellent but more structured, with entry fees around AED 15–20 per person. Sharjah National Park offers more flexibility, larger open spaces, and free-play areas, making it a better spontaneous choice for families who want to spend a relaxed day outdoors without strict schedules.
Why Sharjah National Park Stands Out
✅ Budget-friendly (AED 2 entry vs. higher fees elsewhere)
✅ Wide open spaces for kids, families, sports, and picnics
✅ Flexible experience — stay as long as you want, bring your own food, no need for extra purchases
✅ Mix of nature and recreation — gardens, playgrounds, trails, and heritage miniatures all in one
In short, while the nearby attractions each offer something unique, Sharjah National Park remains the top choice for those seeking an affordable, family-friendly, outdoor day with activities that suit every age group, all in one peaceful and beautifully maintained location.
Visitor Tips
To make the most of your day at Sharjah National Park, here are some practical and experience-based tips to help you plan:
✅ Arrive early, especially on weekends or public holidays. Parking fills up quickly after 4:00 PM, so plan a morning or early afternoon arrival for the best picnic spots and playground access.
✅ Bring your own picnic supplies. While there are small kiosks selling drinks and snacks, you’ll get the full experience (and save money) if you pack your own barbecue items, mats, and games.
✅ Dress comfortably for the season. In summer, wear light, breathable clothing and bring hats and sunscreen. In winter, evenings can get cool, so pack a light jacket.
✅ Respect family days and rules. Mondays are reserved for families, and during Ramadan, be mindful of public etiquette by avoiding eating or drinking in open areas before Iftar.
✅ Don’t expect an amusement park vibe. Sharjah National Park is a calm, green retreat — if you’re looking for wildlife experiences, you might consider alternatives like Dubai Safari Park or Sharjah Safari Park, which focus on animal encounters.
✅ Know nearby alternatives for extended trips. If you’re planning a UAE parks tour, you might also want to explore:
Shees Park for mountain views and waterfalls
Mushrif Park for cycling and forest trails
Zabeel Park with the Dubai Frame
Umm Al Emarat Park in Abu Dhabi for botanical gardens and animal barns
Quranic Park for Islamic heritage and cave exhibits
Sharjah Desert Park for wildlife conservation and learning
Mangrove National Park for kayaking through Abu Dhabi’s mangroves
Burj Park next to Burj Khalifa for skyline views and events
✅ For families with children, Sharjah National Park offers one big advantage: affordable entry, large playgrounds, safe green spaces, and flexibility — something you won’t easily get at more commercialized or ticketed parks.
Customer Reviews
Here’s a detailed look at what real visitors have said about their experiences at Sharjah National Park — capturing both the highlights and areas they felt could improve.
🌿 Ayesha Rahman, School Teacher, Dubai
“We visited Sharjah National Park last weekend with my husband and two kids, ages 5 and 8. The kids absolutely loved the playgrounds — especially the slides and climbing frames in the junior kids’ zone. We spread out our picnic mat under one of the large trees, and it was so peaceful. I really appreciated that there were clean restrooms nearby and water fountains, which made it easy with young kids. My only suggestion would be to add more shaded seating near the playgrounds because by afternoon it got quite sunny. Overall, it’s a perfect spot for a family weekend without spending too much!”
🏀 Mohammed Al Harthy, College Student, Sharjah University
“Me and my friends often go to the park after classes to play basketball. The outdoor court is decent, and it’s great that we don’t need to book or pay extra. We also jog around the walking track, which is about 3.5 km and gives you a nice view of the park’s gardens. One thing that could improve is better lighting along the jogging paths at night — sometimes we stay till closing, and it feels a bit dim in some sections. Still, it’s one of the best free outdoor spots near the university.”
🧕 Fatima Khaled, Homemaker, Ajman
“We came to Sharjah National Park for a family barbecue during Eid holidays, with a big group of about 15 people. The barbecue grills were easy to use, and the park’s green space gave the kids plenty of room to play. What we really liked was the separate family areas where we felt safe and relaxed, away from the bigger crowds. The only issue was parking — we arrived after 5 PM, and the lot was completely full, so we had to wait around 20 minutes to get a spot. My advice: go early during holidays! But overall, it was a memorable day for everyone.”
🏞️ Jason Thomas, Photographer, Dubai
“As a landscape photographer, I’ve visited many parks like Mushrif Park and Zabeel Park in Dubai, but Sharjah National Park has its own charm. The miniature heritage landmarks are unique and make for great photo subjects, especially during golden hour. I also appreciated the quiet corners where you can set up a tripod without being disturbed. However, I wish the fountains were lit at night for more dramatic shots. Still, it’s a peaceful place, perfect for a slower, nature-focused day.”
🧓 Salim bin Ahmed, Retired Engineer, Sharjah
“I come to Sharjah National Park almost three times a week. I walk on the trails and sit in the family areas to read or just enjoy the fresh air. The staff keeps the park very clean, and the security is respectful. One thing I would love to see is maybe a small coffee shop inside, so elderly visitors like me can have tea or coffee without walking too far to the kiosks. But even without that, it’s a gem for Sharjah residents like me who want a quiet escape without leaving the city.”
FAQs about Park
1️⃣ Q: How much is the entry fee for Sharjah National Park, and do children need tickets?
A: The entry fee is AED 2 per person, and children under 2 years old can enter for free. There is also no charge for people of determination (with valid ID). You can buy tickets at the entrance gate, and regular visitors can apply for an annual Sharjah park entry card through Sharjah Municipality.
2️⃣ Q: Is food allowed inside Sharjah National Park? Can we do barbecues?
A: Yes! You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, and there are designated barbecue areas with built-in grills. These barbecue spots are free to use, but you need to bring your own supplies like charcoal, utensils, and plates. Keep in mind that you should only barbecue in the assigned areas and clean up after your picnic.
3️⃣ Q: What are the best times to visit Sharjah National Park to avoid crowds?
A: Weekday mornings and early afternoons are the quietest times, especially before 4:00 PM. Fridays, public holidays, and Eid weekends can get very crowded, particularly between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM. If you’re visiting on holidays, it’s best to arrive early to secure parking and a good picnic spot.
4️⃣ Q: Are there any days when only families are allowed inside the park?
A: Yes — Mondays are officially designated as Family Day, meaning only families or mixed groups are allowed entry. Solo male visitors or groups of bachelors are not permitted on these days to maintain a peaceful, family-friendly environment.
5️⃣ Q: What facilities are available for children and sports lovers?
A: For children, there are three separate playgrounds divided by age group (2–5, 6–10, and 11–15 years), featuring swings, slides, and climbing equipment. For sports enthusiasts, the park offers a free outdoor basketball court, a 3.5 km jogging and walking trail, and an outdoor gym area with fitness machines. All these facilities are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis — just remember to bring your own sports gear!
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