Showcasing modern and contemporary art, plus century-old masterpieces, the Sharjah Art Museum (sharjahartmuseum.ae; free entry) is one of the region's most dynamic galleries. Downstairs, two galleries hold rotating temporary exhibits. Upstairs, the permanent collection displays art created in the Arab world from the late 19th century on. Themes range from people and everyday life to symbolism and folk law, conceptual art and parallel histories.
The permanent collection's most stunning pieces are found in the Barjeel Collection Wing – a long-term loan of some of the most pioneering and significant works by prominent Arab artists from the Barjeel Art Foundation. Some of the highlights include Lebanese artist Rafic Charuf's stark "Palestinian Woman," influential Iraqi artist Kadhim Hayder's "Fatigued Ten Horses Converse with Nothing," Egyptian artist Zeinab Abd El Hamid's chaotically colorful "Quartier Populaire" and three works by post-Surrealist Syrian artist Marwan.
If traveling with children, pick up an activity booklet at reception, which makes the serious space a little more accessible and fun. The museum is open from 8am to 8pm daily, except Friday when it's open from 4pm to 8pm.
