Sharjah Al Markazi Blue Market is one of the most famous trading platforms in the UAE. It is also called the Central Market, the Gold Market. The total area is 80,000 square meters.
History of creation
The blue market of Sharjah Al-Markazi was built in the Muslim style in 1979. It got its name because of the blue tiles on the exterior walls. It was designed by British architect Michael Lyle and his partners. The ruler of Sharjah, Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi, gave them instructions. This project has historical significance. By the way, if you pay attention to the 5 dirhams banknotes, you can see the image of the market, which the locals rate as an honorable mention.
Short description
The blue market of Sharjah Al-Markazi is the most photographed attraction of Sharjah, because the place is recognized as the most visited point in the resort. The main room is painted in a yellow shade, but in the sunlight it looks golden. The facade of the main entrance is decorated with blue mosaics. Wind towers play the role of architectural decoration, as with the development of technology, air conditioners save sellers and buyers from the heat.
The market has several names, and Sharjah has long been accustomed to this. Not so long ago, tourists from Russia gave the trading platform a new designation – "Steam Trains Market". If you look closely, you can see that the shape of the market buildings is similar to 2 steam locomotives. But they look more like vehicles from a fairy tale or cartoon version, rather than an ordinary train.
Shops, opening hours
In total, approximately 600 shops are open in the Sharjah Al-Markazi Blue Market. They work every day from 9.00 to 13.00, but on Friday – until 12.00. Then the shops take a break for prayer, at 16.00 the market reopens and works until 23.00. Some locations have their own individual work schedule, and it may change. It is better to find out information directly on the spot.
The total area of the indoor bazaar is 80 thousand square meters. The interior spaces on the 2 floors are separated by spacious corridors. In one part you can buy gold, jewelry, including handmade jewelry, precious stones, and in the other – carpets, electronics, antiques, clothes, shoes, accessories, and goods that can be taken as gifts to loved ones. Souvenirs and small household goods are on sale in the corridors.
What is usually bought at the market
Silk and cashmere scarves are popular. Buyers often take antiques. Men are given edged weapons inlaid with precious stones as gifts. Tourists from Europe and the USA pay attention to carpets, especially handmade models. Travelers from Russia, China, and Thailand mostly buy jewelry at the Sharjah Al-Markazi Blue Market. Gold shops are especially in demand, there are 22-carat products. Jewelry manufacturing countries are different, including Italy, Singapore and Turkey.
Before or before shopping, you can have a snack at outlets where there are areas with food and snacks. There is also a fruit and spice market at the blue market, where chocolate-covered dates, regular dates and date honey are among the top products. For the convenience of visitors, an exchange office was opened in the central part of the market, tourists call the exchange rate profitable.
How to get to Sharjah Central Market
The blue market of Sharjah Al Markazi is located by the waterfront in the green quarter of Al Sur. Buses No. 1 and 3 stop at the market. The bus station is called "Al Jubail". Some hotels provide a free shuttle service to the market. You can also take a taxi or a rented car.
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