King Faisal Street Sharjah: Location, Attractions, Hotels & Travel Guide

King Faisal Street is a well-known street in the heart of Sharjah, packed with residential, commercial, and retail properties. It is near landmark sites like King Faisal Mosque, Central Souq (Blue Souq), and Al Ittihad Square. The road also links to the nearby waterfront attractions and Khalid Lagoon. Hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, offices, and local services are available in the area. It is centrally located and is helpful for sightseeing, shopping, boarding, and travel. This guide provides details about where to find it, what’s nearby, how to get there, local lodging, and other important information for visitors. 

Quick Facts

According to Sharjah Tourism, the Central Souq is located between the road and Khalid Lagoon near Al Ittihad Square.

Where Is King Faisal Street in Sharjah?

King Faisal Street is in the heart of Sharjah within the vicinity of the old commercial and residential areas. Its location is close to the quarters of Al Qasimia, Al Soor and Al Majaz as well as several main roads leading to the area.

This is the road’s value – it is located next to a group of landmarks and is not only a through-road. For instance, the Central Souq is located at a key spot between the street and Khalid Lagoon. According to Sharjah Tourism, the souq is located close to Al Ittihad Square and Corniche.

The surrounding urban landscape reflects central Sharjah, characterised by mid-rise residential, hotel, commercial, restaurant, office, mosque and public service buildings.

It is also convenient for those commuting from one destination to another in Sharjah. Official Mowasalat’s Route 14 page says it is one of the stops on the route from Al Sharq Terminal to Sharjah International Airport Terminal. 

Why Is the Area Important?

The significance of the area is derived from the attributes of transport, commerce, religion, shopping and tourism.

This is an area of central Sharjah that combines several activities in one place, rather than just one. The visitor can visit a big mosque, go shopping in a traditional souq, walk to the lagoon, and discover restaurants and hotels in the broader central district.

That is why, for the travel enthusiast who does not want to stay around the built-up attractions, this area is of special relevance.

The road is also linked to a larger central urban road network that links to areas like Al Rollo, Al Arouba Street, Al Majaz, and other areas in Sharjah.

Top Attractions Near the Street

King Faisal Mosque

The King Faisal Mosque is one of the most recognizable religious buildings in this area of Sharjah. According tothe  Sharjah Visitor Guide, it is the city’s biggest mosque and is located on the road in the Al Soor area near the Sharjah Central Post Office and Central Souq. 

The mosque thus becomes a significant landmark for navigating in the central district.

Visitors need to keep in mind that the main purpose of a mosque is to be a house of worship. The access rules may vary from the normal rules of tourist sites, and visitors should be aware of the current visitor arrangements and dress suitably for an interior visit.

Central Souq or Blue Souq

The Blue Souq, or Central Souq, is probably the most successful shopping and architectural landmark in the region.

According to Sharjah Tourism, there are over 600 shops at the souq on two floors. It sells items like watches, clothes, handicrafts, carpets, jewellery, gold, precious stones, antiques and other traditional items.

Its unique blue-tiled façade has made it one of the most photographed buildings in Sharjah. The landmark is also culturally recognized on the UAE’s banknote of the five dirham.

The souq is useful for travellers with interests in:

• Gold and jewellery
• Carpets and textiles
• Traditional handicrafts
• Several antique and decorative objects will be for sale.
• Souvenirs, local products

The Central Souq is also located between the road and Khalid Lagoon, ensuring it’s easy to access other attractions.

Al Ittihad Square

Another landmark in the vicinity is Al Ittihad Square. It is linked to the Central Souq and is part of the network of central public spaces around the Central Souq.

The central monument of the square, according to a publication by Sharjah Municipality, is seven oyster shapes, each to represent one of the seven emirates, and the pearls to signify the UAE federation. 

This adds a civic aspect to the area other than commerce and tourism.

Khalid Lagoon and Al Majaz Waterfront

Khalid Lagoon is one ofSharjah’se central geographical landmarks. Al Majaz Waterfront nearby provides public green space, restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife.

According to Sharjah Tourism, Al Majaz Waterfront is a lakeside area offering the Sharjah Musical Fountain, mini-golf, recreational facilities, and dining.

The expansive waterfront is particularly suited to those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the urban roadways. It provides a more leisurely moment to stroll, head to the family picnic, take photos, and enjoy a meal.

The waterfront location is also convenient after dark, when it offers a different ambiance than the surrounding skyline after dark.

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Shopping and Dining Around the Area

Conventional malls are not the only spots to shop around this central corridor.

The Blue Souq offers a traditional market experience, with surrounding streets featuring supermarkets, smaller retail shops, specialist stores, cafés and restaurants.

In addition to modern items, Sharjah Tourism also showcases the Central Souq’s traditional items, making it unique compared to a conventional shopping centre.

There are also a variety of eating places. Arabic, Indian, Middle Eastern, Asian, and other foods can be eaten at restaurants in the nearby areas. They also have local businesses using the road as a key address, such as Kamat’s Sharjah address opposite Safeer Market along the road. 

This is great news for visitors, as they don’t have to rely on all their hotel restaurants. Many local restaurants are available around the commercial streets.

Hotels Near King Faisal Street

It’s in the center of a location that can be used for business or leisure accommodations.

The road is mentioned in the title of two notable properties:

Four Points by Sheraton Sharjah is located in Al Qasimia and officially addresses King Faisal Street. Marriott states that there is on-site self-parking at the hotel, and that the airport is about 18 km away, namely Sharjah International Airport.

ibis Styles Sharjah is also officially on King Faisal Street, close to the Blue Souq. According to Accor, the building is located in the heart of Sharjah, near the Blue Souq, Khalid Lagoon Corniche and Sharjah Expo Centre. 

This can attract a range of travellers, so there is potential for accommodation to be devised for them.

• Business travellers in need of a central location in Sharjah.
• There are a variety of visitors who are interested in shopping and the traditional markets, which are available at the village.
• Families who would like to have access to the waterfront
• Those travellers who like to stay close to the well-established city districts.

Availability, room rates, amenities, and other operating conditions for the hotel may be subject to change, and should be verified directly with the hotel of interest before booking.

Public Transport and Getting Around

One of the more useful features of the area is the public transport.

One of Sharjah’s Mowasalat routes is Route 14, which connects Al Sharq Terminal and Sharjah International Airport Terminal. The official route document calls for stops at Al Sharq Street, Al Arouba Street, Al Rolla Square, King Faisal Street, Maliha Road, Al Gharayen & Al Nouf, Sharjah National Park, and Sharjah International Airport. 

A newer timetable for Mowasalat also mentions the road on Route 14 with a cash fare of AED 8 anda  Sayer fare of AED 6.

It can also prove helpful for airport commuters who could get a direct public-transport link between Sharjah city centre and airport.

Travellers are advised, however, to check their timetable before travel. Publications of bus timetables do not necessarily represent the actual schedule. Bus timetables may be subject to changes. Route timetables may be subject to temporary changes of service or diversion.

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Travelling by Car

It is relatively easy to drive to and from other areas of Sharjah from the central area, driven by the fact that there are no significant traffic or parking challenges.

There are parking facilities around the central souq and other centres. There are also records for designated parking areas at Sharjah Municipality corresponding to the souq. 

Parking may differ from one exact location to another; visitors should use the signs and parking rules at the time and not those in previous years.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing

For those who prefer to avoid driving in the heart of Sharjah, taxis and app-based transportation are convenient alternatives.

Taxi is also an option to switch buses for tourists who bring shopping bags from the Blue Souq or for those travelling with children.

Best Things to Do in the Area

There are three short experiences to choose from: heritage shopping, religious architecture and waterfront leisure.

Start at the Central Souq and allow enough time to explore both levels. There are so many shops in the market that it should not be viewed as a one-stop shop. Sharjah Tourism promotes pairing it with local museums and Corniche.

In the central area, then, visit the nearby area and see the King Faisal Mosque from the right places. If you prefer an open setting, head back towards the lagoon.

Al Majaz Waterfront is a good option for another night on the town. Sharjah Tourism boasts its restaurants, recreation, landscaped spaces, and fountain.

This pairing is good because the attractions offer different experiences which don’t necessarily need to be a long trip from one attraction to the next.

Is It a Good Area to Stay?

It largely depends on your expectations from visiting Sharjah.

It is convenient for visitors who like to stay in the center, go shopping, eat in restaurants, take public transit,t and enjoy landmarks. The Four Points by Sheraton and ibis Styles hotels are examples of the proven hotel development along the corridor. 

It’s also helpful for visitors who desire to experience classic Sharjah and also modern facilities of the city.

But those who are seeking a quiet beachfront resort experience should turn to another part of the emirate instead. The character of Central Sharjah is not a resort district, since it is an active city.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sharjah is during the cooler seasons of the year. This is particularly true when travelling between the souq, mosque, public spaces and waterfront, where walking is required.

In warmer seasons, indoor spots like Central Souq can be better enjoyed in the day, and waterfronts are more appealing in the late part of the day.

Please always check the hours of individual attractions before travelling. The Central Souq will also stay open late, allowing you to visit for a post-sunset shopping session.

Nearby Places Worth Adding to Your Itinerary

The centrality of the area makes it possible for visitors to opt for it as part of several other Sharjah attractions.

The Central Souq is one of the cultural sites recommended by Sharjah Tourism along with Sharjah Art Foundation and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.

Also around Khalid Lagoon is Al Noor Island. Sharjah Tourism calls it a green island full of landscaped gardens, art installations, a Literature Pavilion and a Butterfly House. 

Heart of Sharjah is more suitable for tourists who want to see historic architecture, historic buildings, museums, galleries, and traditional streets. It provides another possible interpretation of the cultural identity of the emirate.

This is because the central district is best seen as a place to stay while visiting other sights in Sharjah, instead of a place to visit on its own.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Here are some things to consider when planning your trip:

• Please note that the times for attractions or souqs are subject to change, so please check before travelling, especially on Fridays and public holidays.
• Be respectfully dressed when visiting or approaching religious sites.
• When you are looking to buy gold, jewellery, carpets or antiques, search for the products and prices in multiple shops.
• Follow official public-transport details for the up-to-date bus timetables and charges.
• If you are going to the waterfront, make it in the evening.

Fares and times for older travel guides may be outdated. Therefore, up-to-date data from Sharjah Tourism, Sharjah Municipality, Mowasalat and hotel operators is preferable when planning a trip.

Final Thoughts

King Faisal Street is located in a convenient location within central Sharjah, near the religious sites, traditional shopping districts, hotels, public transportation, residential communities and waterfront attractions. The Center of Sharjah offers several attractions that can be easily incorporated on a central Sharjah destinations itinerary, such as Central Souq, Al Ittihad Square, King Faisal Mosque, Al Majaz Waterfront and Khalid Lagoon. Public transport is also available, with Mowasalat Route 14 connecting the area with Sharjah International Airport. The region’s visitors can enjoy heritage, shopping, religion, local city life and waterfront activities all under one roof.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is King Faisal Street located?

It is located in the center of Sharjah close to Al Qasimia, Al Soor, Al Majaz, Central Souq, King Faisal Mosque, Al Ittihad Square and Khalid Lagoon.

What is King Faisal Street known for?

The area is famous for having access to important sites, shopping districts, hotels, restaurants, offices and public transport.

Is the Blue Souq near King Faisal Street?

Yes. Near the road and Khalid Lagoon, there is the Central Souq (Blue Souq). One of the most popular traditional shopping areas in Sharjah.

Which bus goes through King Faisal Street?

The area is served by Mowasalat Route 14. It links Al Sharq Terminal with Sharjah International Airport Terminal.

Are there hotels near King Faisal Street?

Yes. Along or near the road are hotels like Four Points by Sheraton Sharjah and ibis Styles Sharjah.

Is King Faisal Mosque near the Blue Souq?

Yes. King Faisal Mosque is in proximity to the Central Souq, in Al Soor, allowing it to be viewed at the same time.

What can visitors do near King Faisal Street?

Visitors can see King Faisal Mosque, visit Al Majaz Waterfront and Khalid Lagoon, and explore the Blue Souq as well.