Languages Spoken in Sharjah

Sharjah is the third-largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), located in the northern part of the country along the Arabian Gulf. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population, which includes a mix of Emirati nationals and expatriates from around the world. With this cultural mix, it comes as no surprise that multiple languages are spoken in Sharjah. Here are some of the most common languages spoken in Sharjah:

1. Arabic

Arabic is the official language of the UAE, including Sharjah, and is spoken by the majority of the population. The Arabic spoken in Sharjah is known as Gulf Arabic or Khaleeji, which is a dialect of the Arabic language spoken in the countries around the Persian Gulf. The local dialect of Arabic may be difficult to understand, at first, for those who do not speak it, as the pronunciation and vocabulary of Gulf Arabic differ from Standard Arabic. However, people who are fluent in Standard Arabic can usually understand Gulf Arabic easily.

2. English

English is widely spoken in Sharjah, especially in business and education. Almost all government and private institutions, including schools, universities, public transport, and shops, use English as a second language. This is because the UAE is considered an international business hub, attracting multinational corporations and tourists from around the world. Knowledge of English can be very helpful for those who wish to conduct business in Sharjah or get involved in the local community.

3. Hindi

Hindi is one of the most widely spoken languages in Sharjah, as a majority of the labour force in the UAE is from India. Hindi is also known as the national language of India, so it is not surprising that it is popular among many people in Sharjah. Most businesses, shops, and services provide Hindi-speaking staff, making it easier for Indians working and living in Sharjah to communicate.

4. Malayalam

Malayalam is another language spoken in Sharjah by the Indian community. It is the official language of the Indian state of Kerala, which has a large expatriate population in the UAE. Many Keralites work in the construction industry in Sharjah, and their ability to speak Malayalam is important for their daily life and communication with fellow Keralites and their families back home in India.

5. Tagalog

Tagalog or Filipino is another language widely spoken in Sharjah, particularly among the Filipino community. Many Filipino nationals work in the UAE, and Tagalog is their primary language. Some businesses and workplaces have Tagalog-speaking staff or signage in Tagalog to cater to their large Filipino clientele.

6. Urdu

Urdu is another language widely spoken in Sharjah, particularly among the Pakistani community. It is the official language of Pakistan, and a large number of Pakistanis live and work in the UAE. Knowledge of Urdu can be very helpful for anyone doing business with Pakistanis in Sharjah.

Conclusion

Sharjah is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population. Its multicultural environment results in many different languages being spoken, and communication can be challenging for those who only speak one language. However, English is widely spoken, making it easier for foreigners to communicate and settle in Sharjah. Nonetheless, learning a second language, particularly Arabic, can be very helpful for anyone looking to live, work or do business in Sharjah.

Insider’s Guide to Sharjah

Sharjah (also spelled as ‘Ash-Shariqah’) is the third-largest emirate of the UAE and is known for its rich history and culture. Although overshadowed by neighboring Dubai, Sharjah has a unique charm that is worth experiencing for any tourist.

Local Attractions

1. Sharjah Fort: Built-in 1820, Sharjah Fort was once used as a defensive structure, a residence for the ruling family, and a prison. Today, it has been converted into a museum that houses artefacts and exhibits that showcase the emirate’s history.

2. Al Noor Island: Al Noor Island is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The island boasts beautiful gardens, creative sculptures, and even a butterfly house.

3. Sharjah Art Museum: Art enthusiasts will enjoy the collection displayed at Sharjah Art Museum, which offers over 500 works of contemporary Arab art.

Dining Spots

1. Al Qasba: Located on the banks of the Khalid Lagoon, Al Qasba is a popular spot for dining, entertainment, and relaxation. The tree-lined walkways offer various cuisines, including Arabic, Asian, and Italian.

2. Bu Qtair: This restaurant serves delicious seafood in a casual setting. Visitors can enjoy their meals while seated on plastic chairs in a no-fuss Ambiance.

3. Al Machboos Al Barjeel: This restaurant offers traditional Emirati specialties such as Machboos (rice cooked with spices and chicken or lamb) and Thareed (bread with meat on top). The restaurant has a beautiful view of the Al Noor Mosque.

Cultural Experiences

1. Sharjah Heritage Museum: This museum aims to preserve Emirati culture and heritage. Visitors will learn about the Bedouin way of life, traditional handicrafts, textiles, and agricultural practices.

2. Calligraphy Square: Located in the heart of Sharjah, Calligraphy Square is dedicated to calligraphy art. Visitors can witness the beauty of Arabic calligraphy enshrined in a variety of forms.

3. Qanat Al Qasba: This destination is a unique and interactive cultural adventure for visitors. The tunnels, which were used for irrigation in ancient times, now serve as a walkway to explore Sharjah’s rich history and culture.

Local History

1. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: This museum boasts a vast collection of Islamic art and artefacts from all over the world. Visitors can learn about Islamic science, literature, art, architecture, and much more.

2. Al Majaz Waterfront: Al Majaz Waterfront is a public park that overlooks the Khalid Lagoon. The park is a hub for family entertainment and boasts many activities and attractions that reflect Sharjah’s culture and history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Mleiha Archaeological Centre: Located in the desert, around 40 kilometres from Sharjah city, Mleiha Archaeological Centre is an interactive museum that showcases the history of the region in great detail. Visitors can learn about the Bedouin tribes, pre-Islamic tombs, ancient trading routes and much more.

2. Khor Fakkan: This coastal town, located on the east coast of Sharjah, is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Khor Fakkan offers many activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and Jet Skiing.

Sharjah may not be as glamorous as Dubai, but it indeed offers several attractions and activities that reflect UAE’s rich heritage and culture. A visit to Sharjah is worth it for any tourist looking for an authentic Emirati experience.