Today’s excursion allows for a look at Sharjah, another of the seven states that comprise the United Arab Emirates. The most conservative of the group, Sharjah is considered to be the region’s cultural capital as well.

Known as the “Pearl of the Gulf, “ Sharjah is the only one of the seven states to touch both the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. A 40-minute drive from the pier brings you to the first stop, the King Faisal Mosque, one of the largest in the Emirates. Drive on to Al Hisn Fort, home to the ruling family for over 200 years. Spend about an hour exploring the adjacent Heritage Area, followed by a stroll through Souq Al Arsah.

A short drive brings you to the Sharjah Museum for Contemporary Art. Opened in 1997, the museum features state-of-the-art displays and research facilities. In addition to temporary exhibits of contemporary Arab artists, the museum features a permanent array of works from the private collection of Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, the current ruler of Sharjah. Many of these works are by European Orientalists who painted and sketched Arabian landscapes and portraits, providing a window into the past. As a special treat, the museum’s curator will be on hand.

A visit is also planned to Sharjah’s “Blue Souq,” Souq Al Markazi, where carpets are considered by some knowledgeable shoppers to be a better buy than in Dubai. Retrace your route back to The World, arriving about 12:30 hrs.

NOTE: Casual but modest clothing is expected; women must cover shoulders and knees.

PRICE:

$ 40 15-29 participants

W2: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.