Located less than 30 minutes from Dubai's city centre on the southern coast of the Persian Gulf, Sharjah is the capital of the emirate of the same name. Sharjah has been declared by UNESCO as a Cultural Capital of the Arab World and the Capital of Islamic Culture, deservedly. Learn about the incredible scientific discoveries made by Islamic scholars at the Museum of Islamic Civilisation; explore the massive, intriguing collection of Arab art at the Sharjah Art Museum, and see the mind-boggling remains and traces of Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Age life at the Mleiha Archaeological Site. Families will enjoy the idyllic canal-side outdoor area, where boat rides provide astonishing views of the city skyline. Make sure to visit the extraordinary Al Noor Island, home to the breathtaking Butterfly House and glimmering, colourful lit-up gardens.