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 The
Emirate of Sharjah extends along approximately 16 kilometres of the UAE's Gulf
coastline and for more than 80 kilometres into the interior. In addition there
are three enclaves belonging to Sharjah situated on the east coast, bordering
the Gulf of Oman. These are Kalba, Khor Fakkan and Dibba al-Husn.
The emirate
has an area of 2,590 square kilometres, which is equivalent to 3.3 per cent of
the country's total area, excluding the islands. The capital city of Sharjah,
which overlooks the Arabian Gulf, contains the main administrative and
commercial centres together with an especially impressive array of cultural and
traditional projects, including several museums.
Distinctive landmarks are the
two major covered souqs, reflecting Islamic design; a number of recreational
areas and public parks such as Al Jazeirah Fun Park and Al Buheirah Corniche.
The city is also notable for its numerous elegant mosques.
Links with the
outside world are provided by Sharjah International Airport and Port Khalid.
Sharjah also encompasses some important oasis areas, the most famous of which is
Dhaid where a wide range of vegetables and fruits are cultivated on its rich and
fertile soil. Khor Fakkan provides Sharjah with a major east coast port. Two
offshore islands belong to Sharjah, Abu Musa, which has been under military
occupation by Iran since 1971, and Sir Abu Nu'air.
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