Recognized as the cultural center of the United Arab Emirates, Sharjah is a destination for visitors. It is full of cultural legacy with heritage museums and traditional Emirati monuments. Even though it is not as crowded as Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Sharjah offers its own beauty with the charming and picturesque spots. Thus, providing a great option for those looking for relaxation. To pave your way to Sharjah, let me introduce you to one of the best airports in the Emirates. It is Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) that you can start or end your journey with.
Facts of Sharjah International Airport
Location: Sharjah International Airport, which is also Sharjah city’s only airport. It is a central hub in the UAE located 13 kilometers southeast of the Sharjah city center.
Dominant Airline: Air Arabia (base).
Capacity per year: About 10 million travelers.
Airlines Available: Air Arabia, Airblue, AirAsia, Air India Express and Air Peace. It also has Cham Wings Airlines, Egypt Air, IndiGo and Pakistan International Airlines. Moreover, deals with Pegasus Airlines, SCAT Airlines, SkyUp, Turkish Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways.
Distance from City: 13 km (around 20 minutes by car from the city center).
Transportation Options to and from Sharjah Airport
Buses and Coaches
Public orange buses of Sharjah and Air Arabia’s dedicated shuttles are convenient and cheap options. Air Arabia passengers can use the air-conditioned coaches equipped with luggage storage. The price starts at AED 7, but travel time may be delayed on account of multiple stops.
Taxis
Sharjah’s taxi service is made up of common taxis. There are some specialty taxis just for women, families, and wheelchair users. Taxis are faster than buses but a bit expensive. They are good if you like the idea of a direct and quick commute.
Car Rentals
There are numerous car rental companies at Sharjah International Airport such as Moosa Rent a Car, Budget, Europcar, and Avis. Rent a Car Sharjah as it is a more flexible option that you can choose from.
Airport Facilities and Services
Let’s have a look at the major services as well as their costs that you can find at Sharjah International Airport:
Service | Description | Pricing (AED) | Notes |
Parking Fees | |||
Short-Term Parking | First hour: 10 AED, Each additional hour: 5 AED | 10 (first hour), 5 (subsequent hours) | Maximum daily rate: 80 AED |
Long-Term Parking | Daily rate for more than 24 hours | 30 per day | Ideal for extended stays |
Car Rental | Various rental companies available at the airport | 100 – 300 per day | Prices vary by car model and rental company |
Airport Transfer | |||
Taxi Service | Metered taxi service to and from Dubai and Sharjah | 50 – 100 to Dubai | Depending on traffic; flat rate applies to nearby areas |
Shuttle Services | Pre-booked shuttles to various hotels in Sharjah | 20 – 50 per person | Check with individual hotels for availability |
Food and Beverage | Dining options available at the airport | 15 – 80 per meal | Price range varies based on restaurant type |
Duty-Free Shopping | |||
Alcohol | Prices range based on brand and type | 50 – 300 | Duty-free prices can vary |
Perfumes | Wide range of international brands | 100 – 500 | Discounts available on selected items |
Electronics | Laptops, cameras, and accessories | 300 – 5,000 | Check for warranty and return policies |
Lounge Access | Access to airport lounges for additional comfort | 100 – 200 | Prices vary by lounge and duration of stay |
Baggage Services | |||
Baggage Wrapping | To protect luggage during travel | 30 – 50 | Charges based on luggage size |
Lost and Found | Fees for retrieving lost items (if applicable) | Variable | Charges depend on item type |
Travel Insurance | Available through various providers | 50 – 300 | Pricing based on coverage and duration |
Customs and Immigration Fees | Applicable fees for certain services | Variable | Check with the customs authority for details |
Airport Lounges
Sharjah airport’s lounges give you the ultimate exclusive touch. Whether you choose it to relax after or before your flight. Among the lounges are a family lounge, a VIP lounge, and a business-class lounge. These present exclusive amenities.
Amenities:
- Business area with internet, fax, photocopy, and assistant services
- Magazines, newspapers, and international TV channels
- Access to free Wi-Fi
- Dedicated smoking rooms
- Boarding announcements
- All-day buffet with beverages, light snacks, and full meals
- Restrooms and showers with toiletries and towels
Policies:
- Reservations can be made online via the airline or directly at the lounge reception.
- A 50% discount applies for children ages 5 to 14.
- Note: Sleeping facilities are not available in the lounge.
Dining Options at Sharjah International Airport
Sharjah Airport brings a variety of eating choices that you can find at the airport for all travelers. Whether you are up for a snack or prefer it to be a meal, you will get plenty of options. Some of the brands found are:
- McDonald’s
- Costa Coffee
- Dunkin’ Donuts
- Subway
- Chocolix
- Mumbai Spices
- Chinese House Restaurant
- World News Café
From fast food to traditional options, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
Lost and Found Services
The airport’s lost and found counter is located in the arrival lounge. It is open 24/7 to help travelers retrieve misplaced items. The crew at this counter is attentive and quite efficient in helping to retrieve lost baggage or any other lost items.
Duty-Free Shopping
Sharjah Airport duty-free shops are your go-to choice for shopping at the last minute. You may find different items such as clothes, perfumes, watches, and gifts from attractive brands.
Airport Transit Hotel
For passengers whose layovers are too long or those that are in transit, Sharjah Airport has an airport hotel. It is located in the security area. This hotel has 16 rooms with facilities like internet access. It can be booked for short stays (1-12 hours) or overnight.
Help Desk
For assistance with flights, airport navigation, or any general inquiries, the airport’s help desk is available. The friendly staff are ready to assist you with information on departures, delays, arrivals, and other concerns.
Family Facilities: Nursing Rooms and Play Zones
Nursing Rooms, and Play Zones, are the two special facilities available for families. As some are traveling with children to Sharjah Airport. In nursing rooms, mothers can feed their kids in private. While a fun and demonstrated play area will ensure the kids are entertained. So, the mothers are free to relax or shop.
Medical Assistance
The airport runs a 24-hour medical clinic that is manned by medical doctors. They address the emergencies that arise, and a number of pharmacies for medicine-related concerns.
ATMs and Currency Exchange
The airport features cash machines from different banks and a currency exchange desk. Thus, providing the public with easy alternatives to cash or purchase foreign currency.
Wi-Fi Access
The whole terminal is installed with free Wi-Fi, so that passengers are able to be on the internet. The help desks are to provide you with the password to access this service.
Payphones and SIM Card Availability
For travelers needing to make calls, payphones are available across the airport. They are operating 24/7 and accepting both cash and card payments. Furthermore, there are available SIM cards from the local companies such as Du and Etisalat. These are perfect for tourists who need temporary data and calling plans.
Summary
Sharjah International Airport covers a number of relevant facilities. So as to make your travel experience more convenient. The airport has a leaked need of food to dine and well-equipped sitting areas. There are numerous family-friendly services such as medical staff at your disposal around the clock. All these together constitute the airport being able to meet and offer all your needs. The staff is also well-mannered and are there to assure that your journey kick-starts in a smooth manner.