The building was formerly the Souq Al Majarrah, a traditional covered marketplace converted into a museum in 2008.
The dome interior is intricately decorated with a mosaic depicting the zodiac signs and constellations visible in the night sky.
The coin collection includes rare Umayyad and Abbasid dinars and dirhams that document the economic history of the early Caliphates.
The museum features a significant display of the Kiswa, the gold-embroidered black cloth covering the Kaaba in Mecca.
The 'Islamic Science' gallery includes working models and replicas of inventions by polymaths like Ibn al-Haytham and Al-Jazari.
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is housed in a repurposed, restored souq featuring a prominent gold-plated dome decorated with a mosaic of the night sky. The collection comprises over 5,000 artifacts spanning 1,400 years of Islamic history, culture, and scientific achievement. Galleries are organized chronologically and thematically, covering early Islamic faith, calligraphy, coins, and inventions. The central 'Al-Majara' hall showcases a complex mosaic depicting the zodiac constellations under the main dome. Scientific contributions are highlighted through models and instruments related to astronomy, medicine, and geometry. The museum serves as a repository for Islamic manuscripts, textiles, and metalwork originating from across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It acts as the primary educational institution for Islamic studies in the Emirate of Sharjah.
Directly under the main rotunda to capture the zodiac mosaic dome against the geometric pillars.
Prioritize the upper-floor galleries for detailed exhibits on Islamic scientific discoveries, as they are often less crowded.
Use the free audio guides available at the entrance to gain context on the complex calligraphic styles presented in the manuscripts.
Check the temporary exhibition calendar, as the museum frequently hosts rotating international collections of Islamic art.
Attempting to see everything in a single visit, which often leads to skipping the detailed scientific instrument displays.
Closed on Monday mornings for maintenance; verify hours during Ramadan as schedules often shift.
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees; maintain a quiet tone inside the galleries.
