Sharjah (emirate) Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids

Sharjah

إِمَارَة ٱلشَّارِقَة

Imārat al-Shāriqah

Emirate of Sharjah

Flag	Coat of arms

Location of Sharjah in the UAE

Country

United Arab Emirates

Seat

Sharjah

Boroughs

9 municipalities

Sharjah City Municipality
Al Bataeh Municipality
Al Dhaid City Municipality
Al Madam Municipality
Dibba Al-Hisn City Municipality
Al Hamriya Municipality
Khor Fakkan City Municipality
Kalba City Municipality
Mleiha Municipality

Government

• Type

Absolute monarchy

Area

• Total

2,590 km² (1,000 sq mi)

Area rank

3rd

Population

(2019)

• Total

2,374,132

• Rank

3rd

Demonym(s)

Sharjawi

Sharjah (which means Imārat Aš-Šāriqah in Arabic) is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a very important part of the UAE, known for its rich history and culture.

About Sharjah
- What is an Emirate?
- Sharjah's Location
Who Rules Sharjah?
- A Look at the Rulers
Culture and Education
- Important Places in Sharjah
Images for kids
See also

About Sharjah

Sharjah is the third-largest emirate in the UAE. It covers about 2,590 square kilometers (1,000 square miles). The main city, also called Sharjah, is a big center for culture and education. It is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf.

What is an Emirate?

An emirate is like a state or a region ruled by an "emir." An emir is a type of ruler or prince. The UAE is a country made up of these seven emirates, each with its own ruler.

Sharjah's Location

Sharjah is unique because it has land on both the Persian Gulf coast and the Gulf of Oman coast. This gives it different types of landscapes, from sandy beaches to mountains. The emirate includes several towns and cities besides Sharjah City, such as Khor Fakkan, Kalba, and Dibba Al-Hisn.

Who Rules Sharjah?

Sharjah is an absolute monarchy. This means it is ruled by a single leader, the Emir. The current ruler is Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi. He has been the ruler for a long time and is very important to Sharjah's development.

Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, the current ruler of Sharjah.

A Look at the Rulers

The Al Qasimi family has ruled Sharjah for many years. They have guided the emirate through different times, helping it grow and become modern. The current ruler, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, is known for his focus on education and culture. He has helped build many universities and museums in Sharjah.

Culture and Education

Sharjah is often called the "Cultural Capital of the Arab World." This is because it has many museums, art galleries, and cultural events. The emirate also has several universities, making it a hub for learning and research.

Important Places in Sharjah

Sharjah City: This is the capital and largest city. It has a beautiful waterfront, traditional markets (souqs), and modern buildings.
Khor Fakkan: A city on the east coast, known for its stunning beaches and mountains. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities.
University of Sharjah: One of the largest universities in the UAE, offering many different courses.