Blue Souk / Central Market - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 16 km from Sharjah International Airport and 17 km from Dubai International Airport, Blue Souk or Central Market is a traditional market area in the city of Sharjah. It is the main shopping hub and one of the most impressive landmarks of Sharjah.

Located on the shore of the Khalid Lagoon, the Blue Souk is a perfect venue to shop for a souvenir and to get the feel of a true Arabian bazaar. This market is also known as the Central Souq and Souk al-Markazi by the locals. The market building has been designed by the British architects Michael Lyle & Partners, based on the ideas and guidance of the Ruler of Sharjah, HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and was completed in 1978. The architecture captures the character of a traditional bazaar on a grand scale. The Central Souk consists of two large buildings, interconnected by bridges, with exuberant vaults and a unique skyline of 20 wind towers. The exterior of the building adorned with elaborate blue tile work and thus earning the name Blue Souk

With over 600 shops on two floors, the souq has almost everything right from electronics to jewelry, kitchen to clothes and exotic souvenir gift items. The ground floor of the market houses expensive designer clothes and gold while the upper floor comprises of shops selling carpets and curios from Tibet and Afghanistan. Oozing a true spirit of Arabian Bazaars, one will often find heavy discounts on items on the upper floor if bargained right. Slightly chaotic and bustling with excitement, the Central Souq or the Blue Souq is a must-visit for shopaholics.

Timings: 9 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 11 PM

Entry: Free