This post was first published on 20 February 2021 and updated on 8 January 2024.
The House of Wisdom Sharjah
The House of Wisdom is a fabulous place to study, work or just read. You don’t have to be a member and, as there are many comfortable places to sit with a book, you can still use it.
Disclosure: When you make a booking or purchase through links on this site, I may earn commission from partners at no extra cost to you. This helps me to build the site and bring you more great posts! Thanks for your support!
Located next to Sharjah University City, it serves many students who you’ll see hard at work preparing for exams, researching a paper or working with classmates on a project. But the library is there for everyone and has a great children’s section, with cosy seating and cushions.
The library has various sections and an interactive guide but there are staff on hand to help you if you need help finding what you’re looking for. You can find Arabic and English books and I found several related to my study, so it’s worth having a look if you’re a student.
So now you’ve got your book, take your pick of seats and you’re spoilt with choice. Will you go for a desk, a comfy chair with complete privacy overlooking the Scroll Monument, an armchair, a niche in the wall, or a mini bed in a cubby in the wall? All have individual lighting and USB ports.
You could also sit in the indoor or outdoor gardens. Meeting rooms are available to rent, and what a lovely setting to inspire a productive discussion. The library also has a restaurant and cafe to sit and read, meet up with fellow students, or just for lunch.
HH Dr Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, instructed the House of Wisdom to be built to celebrate Sharjah being awarded the World Book Capital 2019 title by UNESCO. But it is also an ode to Baghdad’s ancient House of Wisdom, a major intellectual centre during the Islamic Golden Age.
Sheikh Sultan is a great lover of history, especially of the Arab World and of learning, and indeed, a Professor of History and a prolific author. You can read all of his books here.
The House of Wisdom’s role in learning continues beyond books. It’s also a venue for book clubs, creative writing classes, Language courses, children’s workshops, crafting sessions, art exhibitions and more. You can find their programme of events on the House of Wisdom website.
The structure designed by Foster & Partners has various features incorporating both minimalism and the symmetrical geometric designs used in Islamic architecture. These include a floating roof, fountains on either side, indoor gardens, and sweeping black and gold staircases.
Buy Exploring the Emirate of Sharjah – Walking and cycling tours and itineraries in the city and Central and Eastern Regions. Includes the House of Wisdom and Scroll Monument in University City Walking/Cycling Tour – Buy now
Buy Exploring the Emirate of Sharjah – walking, cycling tours and itineraries
The Scroll Monument Sharjah
The Scroll Monument was also created to celebrate Sharjah’s title of World Book Capital in 2019. Designed by British sculptor Gerry Judah of Diales, it symbolises ancient scrolls, one of the early means of recording and conveying the written word.
Sculpted out of 72 tons of steel, it stands 36 metres tall in front of The House of Wisdom, creating superb opportunities for the creative photographer.
The House of Wisdom is accessible by public transport from Sharjah or by car. Parking is available in the basement and outside. It’s often easier to park in front of the Scroll Monument.
House of Wisdom timings
Sun–Thurs 9am–11pm, Fri–Sat 9am-midnight
House of Wisdom membership fees
Standard AED 400 (students AED320) Premium 800 (students 640). To find out more, visit their website.
House of Wisdom Accessibility
Fully accessible with ramps, elevators and toilets for People of Determination.
Other places of interest to visit nearby
- Islamic World Garden
- Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences Islamic World Garden
- Classic Car Museum
- Sharjah Science Museum Sharjah Archaeology Museum
- Sharjah Desert Park – Natural History and Botanical Museum, Islamic Gardens, Wildlife Centre
- Mleha
- Drive through University City – Instagram post
FAQS
- What is the House of Wisdom Sharjah entry fee? It’s free entry
- What is the House of Wisdom location? It’s on Airport/Dhaid Road E88, next to University City and near the airport.
- Can I visit the House of Wisdom? Yes, anyone can visit.
- Is the House of Wisdom the only library in Sharjah? No, the main public library is on Cultural Square and there are many local branches across the emirate.
✅ Follow on Instagram or Facebook for regular photos, tips and snippets of cultural and historical information too.
👥 Join the Glimpses of UAE Facebook group
🗞️ Sign up for the Glimpses of the UAE Newsletter
📍Take me to the Glimpses of the UAE Map to find nearby locations and plan my trip.
🥾 See some of my hiking trails, walks and off-road trips on Wikiloc.
🇴🇲 To see my Oman trips, visit In Scotterati Footsteps