These, the Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization stand out as key institutions preserving and presenting the region’s legacy to the world.
While Al Shindagha Museum tells the story of Dubai’s transformation from a fishing village to a global city, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization offers visitors a rare look into the world of Islamic art, science, and culture. Together, they help us understand not just the past of the UAE but also the broader Islamic world.
In this feature, we take a closer look at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, a landmark destination that houses one of the most extensive collections of Islamic artifacts and artworks in the country.
A Unique Cultural Experience
Located along the Corniche Street in Sharjah, facing the beautiful waters of the Arabian Gulf, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is hard to miss. The building itself is impressive, with traditional Islamic architectural elements, including arches, domes, and intricate patterns. It was originally a souq (market), and its transformation into a museum has helped preserve the building while giving it a new purpose.
The museum opened its doors to the public in 2008 and has since become one of the main cultural attractions in Sharjah, which is often referred to as the cultural capital of the UAE. It reflects the vision of Sharjah’s leadership in promoting heritage and education.
What makes this museum special is that it is not limited to the Islamic history of the Arabian Peninsula or the UAE. Instead, it presents a wide-ranging view of Islamic civilization, covering regions from Spain and North Africa to Central Asia and beyond. This makes it a valuable space for learning about the global contributions of Muslims over the centuries.
Collections and Galleries
The museum is organized into different galleries, each focusing on a particular theme or aspect of Islamic civilization. These include religious life, scientific achievements, daily living, art, and more.
One of the most popular sections is the Abu Bakr Gallery of Islamic Faith, which focuses on the spiritual aspects of Islam. It includes rare copies of the Holy Qur’an, calligraphy, manuscripts, and objects related to prayer and pilgrimage. Visitors can learn about the Five Pillars of Islam and how religion shapes the lives of Muslims around the world.
The Ibn Al-Haytham Gallery of Science and Technology is another highlight. Named after the famous Arab scientist Al-Haytham, the gallery showcases the many discoveries and inventions made by Muslim scholars. These range from astronomy and medicine to engineering and navigation. For example, visitors can see models of early surgical tools, maps, time-keeping devices, and scientific manuscripts that date back hundreds of years.
The museum also has several galleries that focus on Islamic art and craftsmanship. Items on display include ceramics, metalwork, textiles, coins, jewelry, and weapons, all beautifully decorated with Arabic calligraphy, geometric patterns, and floral designs. These objects reflect the artistic excellence and creativity of Islamic artisans across various periods and regions.
Preserving History for Future Generations
One of the museum’s key missions is education. It offers school programs, workshops, and guided tours to help students and visitors of all ages engage with the material in an interactive way. There are also temporary exhibitions hosted throughout the year, often in collaboration with other museums and cultural institutions from around the world.
Through its work, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization plays an important role in preserving Islamic heritage, not just for the people of the UAE, but for the global community. It highlights how Islamic culture has influenced the world in areas such as science, architecture, art, and philosophy.
A Journey Through Time
Walking through the museum feels like taking a journey through time. The displays are arranged in a way that tells a story, from the early days of Islam to its spread across continents. There are detailed explanations and interactive displays that make the experience informative and enjoyable.
For those who may not know much about Islamic history, the museum provides clear and accessible information. It avoids complicated language and instead focuses on helping visitors understand the context of each artifact or artwork. This makes it a welcoming space for tourists, residents, and scholars alike.
Why It Matters Today
In today’s fast-changing world, preserving history and understanding different cultures has become more important than ever. Museums like this one help build bridges between people by encouraging respect and curiosity about other traditions.
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization reminds us that Islamic history is not just about religion. It is also about knowledge, beauty, and human achievement. From ancient medical tools to dazzling tiles and paintings, the museum shows how Muslims contributed to the world in many ways—often ahead of their time.
This message is especially relevant in the UAE, a country that celebrates both its Islamic identity and its place in the modern world. The museum fits well within the nation’s broader efforts to promote tolerance, innovation, and cultural understanding.
Visiting the Museum
For anyone interested in learning more about Islamic culture or the history of the region, a visit to the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is highly recommended. It offers a quiet, thoughtful space where visitors can explore, reflect, and discover.
The museum is open throughout the week and provides a comfortable environment with helpful staff, multi-language guides, and family-friendly facilities. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning guest, there is always something new to see or learn.
Conclusion
While the Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai captures the story of the UAE’s local development and traditions, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization places that story in a much broader context. It connects the UAE to the wider Islamic world and shows how culture, knowledge, and faith have shaped human civilization for over a thousand years.
Together, these museums serve as living classrooms and cultural beacons in the heart of the UAE. They remind us of the importance of history, the value of learning, and the richness of the Islamic heritage that continues to inspire people around the world today.
Also read: Sharjah Heritage Museum – Life and traditions in the UAE.
