The Hidden Gems Of Sharjah You Can Only Discover With A Rental Car

Business Mar 7, 2025 21 Add to Reading List

Sharjah, often referred to as the cultural capital of the UAE, is home to stunning mosques, traditional souks, world-class museums, and breathtaking landscapes. While many visitors explore its well-known attractions, there are numerous hidden gems in Sharjah that remain undiscovered by most tourists. These off-the-beaten-path locations offer a unique perspective on the emirate, but they can be difficult to access using public transport.

The best way to uncover Sharjah’s hidden gems? Rent a car in Sharjah! With a rental car, you can travel at your own pace, visit remote locations, and experience the true essence of this fascinating emirate. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Sharjah’s secret spots that you can only explore with the freedom of your own vehicle.

1. Mleiha Archaeological Centre – A Journey Into The Past

Distance from Sharjah City Centre: 60 km (~45-minute drive)

Nestled in the heart of the desert, Mleiha Archaeological Centre is one of the UAE’s most significant historical sites. This hidden gem is home to ancient fossils, pre-Islamic tombs, and fascinating archaeological discoveries that date back over 130,000 years.

Why Visit Mleiha?

Explore ancient caves and burial sites.
Go on an off-road desert adventure.
Enjoy breathtaking desert landscapes.
Experience stargazing tours at night.

Why You Need a Rental Car: Public transport does not reach Mleiha. A rental car allows you to drive through the scenic desert roads and fully explore this historic site.

2. Al Rafisah Dam – A Hidden Oasis In The Mountains

Distance from Sharjah City Centre: 90 km (~1-hour drive)

If you love nature and tranquility, Al Rafisah Dam is a must-visit. This hidden oasis, located in the Hajar Mountains, offers stunning views of the calm lake surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation, kayaking, or a scenic picnic with family and friends.

What You Can Do at Al Rafisah Dam:

Rent a kayak or paddle boat and explore the peaceful waters.
Walk along the scenic trails and enjoy panoramic mountain views.
Visit the small heritage village nearby.
Have a picnic in a serene setting.

Why You Need a Rental Car: The dam is located off the main highways, and public transport does not serve this remote location. A rental car gives you the freedom to visit at your own pace.

3. Khor Fakkan – The UAE’s Best Kept Coastal Secret

Distance from Sharjah City Centre: 140 km (~1.5-hour drive)

Located on the eastern coast of the UAE, Khor Fakkan is a stunning seaside town that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. This hidden gem offers pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking mountain views.

Must-See Attractions in Khor Fakkan:

Khor Fakkan Beach – Crystal-clear waters and soft sands perfect for a relaxing day.
Al Rabi Tower – A historical watchtower offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Shark Island – A paradise for snorkelers and divers.
Shees Park – A lush, green park nestled in the mountains.

Why You Need a Rental Car: While Khor Fakkan is a dream destination, public transport options are limited. Rent a car in Sharjah to enjoy the scenic drive and explore the town at your leisure.

4. Kalba Mangrove Forest – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Distance from Sharjah City Centre: 120 km (~1.5-hour drive)

Sharjah is not just about deserts and skyscrapers – it also has lush green mangroves! The Kalba Mangrove Forest, one of the oldest and largest mangrove forests in the UAE, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

What Makes Kalba Special?

Spot rare wildlife, including the endangered Arabian Collared Kingfisher.
Kayak through the tranquil mangrove waters.
Visit the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre to learn about local wildlife.
Explore the charming fishing town of Kalba.

Why You Need a Rental Car: Public transport does not go directly to Kalba, making it nearly impossible to visit without a car.

5. Wadi Shees – A Hidden Mountain Escape

Distance from Sharjah City Centre: 110 km (~1.5-hour drive)

If you love adventure and the outdoors, Wadi Shees is the perfect destination. This hidden gem in the Hajar Mountains features natural water pools, lush date palm plantations, and breathtaking landscapes.

What You Can Do at Wadi Shees:

Hike through scenic trails.
Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
Explore the traditional Shees village.
Enjoy a barbecue or picnic with stunning views.

Why You Need a Rental Car: The roads to Wadi Shees are winding and remote, making public transport unreliable. Renting a car allows you to navigate the mountain terrain at your own pace.

6. Fossil Rock – A Geological Wonder In The Desert

Distance from Sharjah City Centre: 55 km (~45-minute drive)

One of Sharjah’s most fascinating natural attractions, Fossil Rock is a desert landscape filled with ancient marine fossils embedded in the rocks. It’s a fantastic destination for off-road adventures, hiking, and photography.

Things to Do at Fossil Rock:

Go on a thrilling off-road drive through the dunes.
Hike up the rock formations for a panoramic desert view.
Discover marine fossils dating back millions of years.
Enjoy a sunset picnic in the serene desert.

Why You Need a Rental Car: There is no public transport to Fossil Rock, and the best way to get there is by renting a car (preferably a 4x4 if you plan to explore off-road).

Why Renting A Car In Sharjah Is The Best Choice For Exploring Hidden Gems

Freedom and Flexibility – Explore at your own pace without relying on bus schedules.
Access to Remote Locations – Many of Sharjah’s best-kept secrets are far from public transport routes.
Comfort and Convenience – Travel in air-conditioned comfort, ideal for the UAE’s warm climate.
Cost-Effective for Groups – Renting a car can be more affordable than multiple taxi rides.

By choosing to rent a car in Sharjah, you’ll unlock a side of the emirate that most visitors never get to see. Whether it’s the desert wonders of Mleiha, the mountain retreats of Wadi Shees, or the coastal beauty of Khor Fakkan, a rental car is your key to an unforgettable adventure.

So, the next time you visit Sharjah, skip the touristy spots and hit the road to discover its hidden treasures!