Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Capital City

With a population of over 1.2 million, Sharjah is the third-largest city in the United Arab Emirates. The emirate's position as a regional cultural hub comes with a heavy tax burden - residents pay no income tax, but the bureaucracy is a persistent headache. The city's scorching desert climate, with average summer temperatures exceeding 40°C, is another challenge. However, Sharjah's status as the "cultural capital of the UAE" makes it an appealing destination for Islamic tourists seeking an authentic Arabian experience, with its mosques, souks, and museums celebrating the region's heritage.