Travel Plan
Central Souq (Blue Souk)

Home UAE Sharjah Central Souq (Blue Souk)

ATTRACTION GUIDE · SHARJAH

Central Souq (Blue Souk)

The Blue Souk: two halls of blue tiles and wind towers, full of carpets, gold and antiques.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Free
Best time
Evening · avoid Friday midday
Area
Al Majaz

The 'Blue Souk', known for gold, carpets and crafts.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Central Souq, Al Majaz, Sharjah

  • Taxi: On Khalid Lagoon near the Al Majaz area.
  • From Dubai: About 30–60 minutes by taxi.
  • On foot: Walk from Al Majaz Waterfront along the lagoon.

The story of the Central Souq

Opened in 1978, the Central Souq is one of the most famous landmarks of Sharjah. Its two long halls are decorated with blue tiles and topped with wind towers, a modern take on traditional Gulf architecture.

Inside, hundreds of small shops sell Persian and Afghan carpets, gold jewellery, perfumes, antiques and souvenirs.

Best time to visit

Best season

All year (it is air-conditioned).

Best time of day

Evening, when shops are fully open.

Fridays

Many shops close during Friday prayers.

Tips before you go

  • Bargain politely for carpets and souvenirs.
  • The upper floor has the best carpet and antique shops.
  • Bargaining is expected.

Best hotels near the Central Souq

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Al Bait Sharjah

Heritage hotel made of restored family homes in the Heart of Sharjah.

See prices

Hilton Sharjah

Hotel on Khalid Lagoon facing Al Noor Island.

See prices

Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa

Beach resort on the Sharjah coast.

See prices
All hotels near the Central Souq

What's around the Central Souq

  • Al Majaz WaterfrontFountain shows and restaurants.
  • Al Noor IslandAcross the lagoon.
  • Heart of SharjahHistoric quarter, 10 minutes away.
  • King Faisal MosqueOne of the largest mosques in Sharjah, nearby.

Questions travellers ask

Why is it called the Blue Souk?

Because of its blue tile decoration.

What can I buy there?

Carpets, gold, perfumes, antiques and souvenirs.

Is it open all day?

Usually morning to late evening, with a break on Friday midday.

More in Sharjah

Al Noor Mosque

Al Noor Mosque

Read the guide
Sharjah Mosque

Sharjah Mosque

Read the guide
Heart of Sharjah

Heart of Sharjah

Read the guide
Al Noor Island

Al Noor Island

Read the guide
Al Majaz Waterfront

Al Majaz Waterfront

Read the guide
Back to the Sharjah guide
Travel Plan · Central Souq (Blue Souk) Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure