Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

• Sharjah is the UAE's third-largest emirate and takes its Islamic culture seriously. No alcohol anywhere - bars, restaurants, even bringing it in from Dubai is illegal. The dress code is stricter than Dubai, and public behavior expectations reflect conservative values. Think museums and heritage sites rather than nightlife.
• The strictness translates to safety. There's heavy police presence, and petty crime is rare. Walking around at night feels secure, though you'll notice the rules are enforced - modest dress covering shoulders and knees isn't a suggestion. Islamic customs matter here.
• Tourist areas, hotels, and chain restaurants have English speakers. Local neighborhoods run more on Arabic. The city has good museums and waterfront areas to visit during the day. Eating alone in cafes is normal in areas like Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Qasba where families and office workers go.
• Women-only pink taxis with female drivers are available through the SRTA app if you prefer that option. Regular buses have designated women's seating at the front. Dubai is 30 minutes away, so you can stay in Sharjah for lower prices and conservative atmosphere, then visit Dubai when you want different energy.

Arabic is official but hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas have English speakers. Emergency services (999, 998, 997) and the non-emergency police line (901) have English operators. Local neighborhoods and traditional markets run more on Arabic - have Google Translate ready. Pink taxi drivers usually speak English or enough for basic directions.

• Cover shoulders, upper arms, and legs below knees. Nothing tight, see-through, or revealing. Tank tops, shorts, and short dresses get stares and sometimes official attention. This is much more conservative than Dubai. The decency laws from 2001 are actually enforced.
• Take off shoes when entering mosques or homes. Cover your head in mosques. The Sharjah Mosque near Al Noor allows non-Muslim visitors and runs tours if you want to learn about Islamic culture.
• Alcohol is illegal. Full stop. No bars, no restaurants serving it, and don't try bringing it in from Dubai. The penalties are real.
• Public affection is illegal. Holding hands might slide in tourist areas, but kissing or hugging can get you arrested. Unmarried couples sharing hotel rooms is technically illegal too, though enforcement varies by hotel.
• During Ramadan, don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight (roughly 4am-7pm). Most restaurants close during the day and open after sunset. Even if you're not fasting, respect those who are.
• Don't photograph government buildings, military sites, palaces, or people (especially women) without asking. Just ask first.
• Hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots have English speakers. Basic Arabic helps elsewhere (Salam alaikum - hello, Shukran - thank you, Min fadlak - please).

• Pink taxis with female drivers are available through the SRTA app. They're government-regulated with meters. Regular taxis work fine too - just use official ones with meters. Uber and Careem both operate here.
• Buses are air-conditioned and cheap (AED 5-7 per trip). Women's seating is at the front. The SRTA app has routes and schedules. Buses connect Al Majaz, Al Qasba, University City, and go to Dubai.
• Never get in unmarked cars offering rides. Stick to official taxis or ride apps.
• Walking works in waterfront areas like Al Majaz and Al Qasba during cooler months. Sidewalks are maintained and lighting is decent. Summer heat makes walking miserable. Remember to cover shoulders and knees.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Sharjah with local guides and curated experiences.