Do People in Sharjah Speak English? A Comprehensive Guide

Sharjah is one of the seven emirates that constitute the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a rapidly growing city that attracts a large number of expatriates every year, and English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. For this reason, it is natural to wonder if people in Sharjah speak English as well. In this blog post, we will provide you with all the information that you need to know about the English language situation in Sharjah, backed up by strong evidence.

What is the Official Language of Sharjah?

The official language of Sharjah is Arabic. Arabic is the official language of the UAE and is spoken by the vast majority of the country’s population. However, English is widely spoken as a second language, and it is considered the primary language for business and official communication. Alongside Arabic and English, there are other languages spoken in Sharjah, including Hindi, Urdu, and Farsi.

English Language Education in Sharjah

The UAE has a well-developed education system that provides English language instruction from a young age. English is taught as a second language in most schools in Sharjah, including public and private schools. In addition, there are many international schools in Sharjah that offer English-based curriculums. These include schools such as the American University of Sharjah, Sharjah English School, and Sharjah American International School.Furthermore, Sharjah University, one of the largest universities in the UAE, offers degree programs in English. The university attracts students from all over the world, and English is the primary language of instruction.

English Language Proficiency in Sharjah

According to the EF English Proficiency Index 2020, the UAE ranks 35th in the world for English language proficiency. While this may not be the highest ranking, it is still considered to be a decent proficiency level compared to many other countries worldwide. Sharjah is no exception to this, and it is estimated that around 70% of the population speaks some form of English. This includes people who are fluent in English and those who have basic knowledge of the language.

English Language Usage in Sharjah

English is widely used in Sharjah for business, tourism, and official communication. The city is home to many international corporations, and most business dealings are conducted in English. In addition, Sharjah attracts a large number of tourists every year, and English is the primary language used in the tourism industry. Most street signs, store signs, menus, and other public information materials are available in both Arabic and English.

In Conclusion

In summary, English is widely spoken and used in Sharjah. While Arabic is the official language of the city, English is commonly used in education, business, and tourism. The high number of international schools and universities in Sharjah, as well as the large number of expatriates, contribute to the city’s English language proficiency. Overall, Sharjah is a great destination for those who speak English or wish to learn the language. With its rich culture and welcoming community, Sharjah has something to offer for everyone.

Insider’s Guide to Sharjah: Everything You Need to Know

Sharjah is one of the seven emirates of the UAE, covering an area of 2,590 sq. km, and a population of over 1.4 million. It is bubbling with culture, history, and unique experiences that will appeal to all travelers. This insider’s guide is designed to give tourists a comprehensive understanding of Sharjah, including the English language usage, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Do People in Sharjah Speak English?

The official language of Sharjah is Arabic, but since the city has a significant expat population, English is also widely spoken. You won’t have trouble finding people who can speak English in Sharjah, especially in tourist areas like hotels, public areas, and restaurants. It is always helpful to know a few Arabic phrases, such as shukran (thank you) and marhaba (hello) to enhance your interactions with locals.

Local Attractions

Sharjah is a city that offers something for everyone, from cultural aficionados to beach lovers, and even families with kids. Here are our top local attractions in Sharjah.

– Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: This museum is home to an extensive collection of Islamic artifacts, including manuscripts, ceramics, and scientific instruments.

– Al Noor Island: It is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, boasting stunning floral gardens with over 500 species of plants, butterflies, and birds.

– Sharjah Art Museum: It is the largest art museum in the UAE that showcases contemporary and traditional artworks from artists around the region.

– Sharjah Aquarium: It is home to more than 250 species of marine life, including rays and sharks. You can also learn about the local fishing industry and conservation efforts to protect sea creatures.

Dining Spots

Sharjah is a city that offers a wide range of cuisines, from local Arabic to international flavors. Below are our top picks of dining spots in Sharjah.

– Milas Restaurant: This is an excellent spot for food enthusiasts. It serves tasty kebabs, rice dishes, and mezze, and has a fantastic atmosphere.

– Halwa Yamen: An amazing restaurant that specializes in traditional Emirati cuisine, serving mouth-watering dishes like machboos (spiced rice with meat), balaleet (sweet vermicelli), and khameer bread.

– Mozaiic Art Cafe: This is a cozy cafe that serves delicious coffee, tasty salads, sandwiches, and homemade ice cream.

– Marasea: If you are a seafood lover, this is the place to be. This restaurant will serve you some of the freshest and tastiest seafood in all of Sharjah.

Cultural Experiences

Sharjah is known as the cultural capital of the UAE, and it prides itself on preserving and promoting the local traditions and culture. These cultural experiences are worth venturing in Sharjah.

– Al Qasba: This is a buzzing entertainment venue located next to Sharjah’s iconic landmark, the Eye of the Emirates. Here you will enjoy a beautiful view of the canal, explore the art exhibitions, shop for souvenirs, and relish in local cuisines.

– Al Majaz Waterfront: It is a beautifully designed park and entertainment center built on the Sharjah creek. This site boasts water fountains, children’s play areas, and restaurants, making it an ideal place for families.

– Sharjah Heritage Area: It is home to several museums and historic buildings, showcasing life in the region before the discovery of oil. You will find the Sharjah Heritage Museum, the Al Eslah School Museum, and the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum here.

Local History

Sharjah has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over 5,000 years. Here are some of the historical attractions worth visiting:

– The Sharjah Archaeology Museum: It is an interpretation center that tells the story of the UAE’s archaeological heritage, with objects that date back to 5000BC.

– Sharjah Fort: This fort’s goal was to protect the city and its valuable trade links and is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks, located in the old town.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For tourists who want to explore the lesser-known spots in Sharjah, here are our suggestions:

– The Sharjah Center for Astronomy and Space Sciences: This is a fantastic destination for science enthusiasts and explorers that offers a planetarium, a space museum, and an observatory.

– The Rain Room: This is an immersive art installation that simulates rainfall, in which visitors can walk through the rain without getting wet.

– Mleiha Archaeological Center: The center is located on the city’s outskirts and is open for visitors to explore the ancient ruins, rock formations, and historical sites.

Sharjah is a city that is steadily growing, and its unique culture and history make it a charming destination. Use this insider’s guide to get the most out of your travels to Sharjah.