Al Majaz Waterfront isn’t just Sharjah’s most popular family destination – it’s where the emirate’s soul comes alive every evening. Last month, I stood along the Khalid Lagoon waterfront as sunset painted the sky pink and orange, watching hundreds of families spread picnic blankets on immaculate lawns while children ran freely through splash pads. Then, as darkness fell, the Sharjah Musical Fountain erupted in a spectacular display of water shooting 100 meters into the air, dancing in perfect sync with Arabic music and laser lights. In that moment, surrounded by people from dozens of nationalities all sharing the same sense of wonder, I understood why this 231,000-square-foot waterfront has become Sharjah’s beating heart.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a regular looking to discover something new, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Al Majaz Waterfront Park in 2025.
What Makes Al Majaz Waterfront Special
Launched by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) in 2010, Al Majaz Waterfront represents a AED 120 million investment in creating Sharjah’s flagship leisure and tourism destination. Located in the vibrant heart of Sharjah along the stunning Khalid Lagoon, this waterfront park has successfully transformed from ambitious vision into beloved reality.
What sets it apart:
✓ Completely free entry – Unlike many UAE attractions, you can enjoy this world-class waterfront without spending a dirham
✓ The region’s largest musical fountain – 220 meters wide with shows every 30 minutes
✓ Cultural authenticity – Reflects Sharjah’s rich heritage while offering modern family entertainment
✓ Comprehensive facilities – Everything from splash parks to restaurants to mosques in one location
✓ Accessibility – Open 24 hours with over 1,000 parking spaces
✓ Family-focused – Safe, clean, and thoughtfully designed for all ages
The waterfront attracts visitors of all backgrounds to explore its wonders, offering something genuinely special for every family member – from toddlers splashing in the dedicated play areas to grandparents enjoying peaceful lagoon views.
The Sharjah Musical Fountain: Main Attraction
The crown jewel of Al Majaz Waterfront is undoubtedly the Sharjah Musical Fountain, recognized as the largest fountain in the UAE and one of the region’s most impressive water features. This technological marvel spans 220 meters across the Khalid Lagoon and shoots water jets up to 100 meters into the air – roughly the height of a 30-story building.
Technical Specifications:
- Two giant water screens for video projections
- Eight video projection systems
- Latest sound and light techniques
- Laser arrangements creating intricate patterns
- Synchronized water choreography
The Show Experience:
Each performance lasts approximately 5 minutes and combines colorful water displays, dramatic lighting, laser shows, and carefully selected music ranging from classical Arabic melodies to contemporary international hits. The fountain creates shapes, patterns, and even representations of the UAE flag during special performances.
The shows typically begin around 6:30-8:00 PM and run every 30 minutes throughout the evening until approximately 11:30 PM. During Ramadan, timings may shift to accommodate the holy month, with shows often starting after 10:00 PM.
Viewing Tips:
Best viewing position: Arrive 20-30 minutes before show time to secure prime spots along the waterfront promenade directly facing the fountain. The amphitheater-style seating area offers excellent elevated views.
Photography advice: The combination of water, lights, and music creates spectacular photo opportunities. Use burst mode to capture the perfect moment as water jets reach their peak. Evening shows after 8:00 PM provide the most dramatic lighting effects.
Weekend crowds: Friday and Saturday evenings draw the largest crowds. For a more relaxed experience, visit on weekday evenings when you’ll have better viewing positions and more space.
Admission: Completely free! This world-class entertainment costs nothing to enjoy – one of Sharjah’s greatest gifts to residents and visitors.
Activities and Attractions: Something for Everyone
Splash Park – Kids’ Paradise
The 800-square-meter Splash Park holds the distinction of being the first of its kind in the region when it opened. Designed specifically for children under 12 years old, this water play area features various splash zones, water jets, and interactive elements that keep kids entertained for hours.
Details:
- Cost: AED 25-30 per child per day
- Hours: 10 AM-6 PM (Saturday-Wednesday), 9 AM-12 AM (Thursday-Friday)
- Age range: Best for children 2-12 years old
- Safety: Supervised area with non-slip surfaces and shallow water features
What parents love: The splash park is completely enclosed, making it easy to supervise children while they play. Shaded areas allow parents to relax nearby, and the reasonable entry fee makes it affordable for regular visits.
Mini Golf Course – Family Competition
The mini golf course at Al Majaz Waterfront offers 18 holes of fun challenges suitable for all skill levels. This activity provides the perfect blend of friendly competition and outdoor entertainment.
Details:
- Cost: AED 25 adults, AED 15 children
- Hours: 9 AM-12 AM daily
- Equipment: Provided (clubs and balls)
- Duration: 30-45 minutes average game time
Pro tip: Visit during cooler evening hours (after 6 PM) when temperatures drop and the waterfront atmosphere becomes more magical with sunset lighting.
Water Activities – Khalid Lagoon Adventures
The tranquil waters of Khalid Lagoon offer several ways to experience the waterfront from a different perspective:
Electric Boat Rides (AED 50): Modern electric boats provide peaceful tours around the lagoon, offering unique views of the waterfront, fountain, and surrounding Sharjah skyline. Boats accommodate 2-6 people, making them perfect for families or couples seeking romantic experiences.
Traditional Abra Cruises: Experience traditional Emirati transportation aboard authentic abra boats. These wooden vessels provide cultural connections while cruising the lagoon’s calm waters.
Kayaking (AED 20 unlimited time): Perhaps the best value activity at Al Majaz, kayaking offers unlimited time on the water for just AED 20. Paddle at your own pace, explore different lagoon areas, and enjoy peaceful water time with spectacular waterfront views.
Safety note: All water activities include life jackets and basic safety instructions. Lifeguards monitor the lagoon area during operating hours.
Maraya Art Park – Cultural Beauty
This outdoor art installation park showcases contemporary sculptures and artistic installations that blend seamlessly with the waterfront’s natural beauty. Perfect for leisurely strolls while appreciating creative expressions.
Alwan Activity Center
The activity center provides organized recreational programs and spaces for various activities, particularly popular with school groups and organized events.
Jogging and Cycling Tracks
Al Majaz Waterfront features dedicated tracks for fitness enthusiasts, with the jogging track notably paved using 6,000 recycled tires – an environmentally friendly choice reflecting Sharjah’s commitment to sustainability. The scenic route along the lagoon makes exercise genuinely pleasant rather than a chore.
Track features:
- Well-maintained, smooth surface
- Separated lanes for runners and cyclists
- Distance markers along the route
- Shaded sections for daytime use
- Evening lighting for safe nighttime exercise
Al Taqwa Mosque – Spiritual Beauty
This magnificent mosque stands as a testament to Sharjah’s rich Islamic culture. The elegant dome and soothing ambiance create a wonderful spiritual environment. Visitors can easily access the mosque to pray in spacious, well-lit halls. The mosque’s architectural beauty makes it a waterfront landmark while serving the community’s spiritual needs.
City Sightseeing Sharjah Bus Tours
Starting from Al Majaz Waterfront, these hop-on-hop-off bus tours take visitors to Sharjah’s most iconic attractions, including heritage areas, museums, souks, and cultural landmarks.
Details:
- Purchase tickets: Information desk near fountain piazza (9 AM-12 AM daily)
- Day tours: 9 AM-7 PM daily
- Night tours: 8 PM-10 PM (Thursday-Friday)
- Benefits: Learn about Sharjah’s history, see multiple attractions efficiently, hop off at points of interest
Children’s Playgrounds
Multiple well-equipped playgrounds scattered throughout the waterfront offer age-appropriate equipment, safe surfaces, and shaded areas. These free play zones provide entertainment for younger children while parents relax on nearby benches.
Dining at Al Majaz Waterfront
The waterfront hosts over 10 restaurants and cafes offering diverse international cuisine with stunning lagoon views. From casual snacks to fine dining, options suit every taste and budget.
Popular choices:
Shakespeare and Co. – This chain’s waterfront location offers their signature eclectic menu in a charming setting perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Al Fanar Restaurant – Experience authentic Emirati cuisine in traditional surroundings. Perfect for visitors wanting to taste local flavors including machbous, harees, and traditional sweets.
Gazebo – Excellent Indian cuisine with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options satisfying diverse palates.
International Options – Arabic, Asian, Italian, and fusion restaurants ensure everyone finds something appealing.
Casual Dining: Snack and drink kiosks throughout the waterfront provide quick bites, ice cream, fresh juices, and refreshments perfect for sustaining energy during long visits.
Dining tips:
- Reserve tables for popular restaurants during weekend evenings
- Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with direct lagoon views
- Family-friendly options with kids’ menus available at most establishments
- Prices range from budget-friendly (AED 30-50 per person) to moderate (AED 80-150 per person)
Practical Information: Planning Your Visit
Location and Access
Address: Khalid Lake Trail, Al Majaz 2, Al Buhaira Corniche Road, Sharjah
Geographic context:
- Located between Jamal Abdul Nasser Street and Khalid Lagoon Corniche
- In the heart of Sharjah city
- Opposite Sharjah City Centre mall
- 1 km from Blue Souk
Distances:
- 18 km from Sharjah International Airport (20-25 minutes)
- 14 km from Dubai International Airport (25-30 minutes)
- 15-20 minutes from Dubai city center via Sheikh Zayed Road
Getting There
By Car: Use GPS navigation to “Al Majaz Waterfront, Khalid Lagoon, Sharjah.” Three parking lots (P1, P2, P3) provide over 1,000 spaces. Parking fees apply (nominal charges). Electric vehicle charging stations available at P2.
Public Bus: Multiple routes serve Al Majaz:
- E303, E303A, E306, E307A, E400
- Nearest stop: Al Majaz Park Station
Water Taxi: From Al Qasba, water taxis reach Al Majaz Waterfront in approximately 15 minutes – a unique and scenic travel option.
By Taxi/Ride-sharing: Uber and Careem operate throughout Sharjah. Simply set destination as “Al Majaz Waterfront” for door-to-door service.
Operating Hours
Park General Access: 24 hours (some sources indicate 8 AM-11 PM – verify current status)
Specific Attractions:
- Mini Golf: 9 AM-12 AM
- Splash Park: 10 AM-6 PM (Sat-Wed), 9 AM-12 AM (Thu-Fri)
- Musical Fountain Shows: 6:30 PM-11:30 PM (every 30 minutes)
- Restaurants: Varying hours, most open 10 AM-12 AM
Entry Fees
Park Entry: FREE
Activities:
- Mini Golf: AED 25 adults, AED 15 children
- Splash Park: AED 25-30 per child
- Electric Boat Rides: AED 50
- Kayaking: AED 20 (unlimited time)
- Musical Fountain: FREE
Best Times to Visit
By Season:
Winter (November-March) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect
Ideal weather with temperatures 20-28°C. Comfortable for all-day outdoor activities. Peak tourist season means larger crowds, especially weekends, but the pleasant climate justifies popularity.
Spring (April-May) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent
Still comfortable with temperatures 28-35°C. Good time before summer heat arrives. Fewer crowds than peak winter season.
Summer (June-September) – ⭐⭐ Challenging
Very hot (40-45°C+) with high humidity. Daytime visits uncomfortable. However, evening visits (after 6 PM) remain pleasant as temperatures drop and sea breezes provide relief. Indoor attractions and water activities become more appealing.
Autumn (October) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good
Transitioning from hot to pleasant. Perfect weather returns while crowds remain manageable.
By Time of Day:
Early Morning (8 AM-10 AM): Peaceful atmosphere, perfect for jogging and cycling, minimal crowds, pleasant temperatures. Not ideal for fountain shows (evening only) but great for fitness activities.
Late Afternoon-Evening (5 PM-11 PM): Prime visiting time. Cooler temperatures, fountain shows operational, restaurants open, lively atmosphere, best for family visits. Most crowded period, especially weekends.
By Day of Week:
Weekdays (Sunday-Thursday): Fewer crowds, easier parking, relaxed atmosphere, shorter wait times for activities, better restaurant availability.
Weekends (Friday-Saturday): Busiest periods, full family atmosphere, all services operating, advance planning recommended, arrive early for parking and prime fountain viewing spots.
Perfect Day Itinerary at Al Majaz Waterfront
5:00 PM – Arrive and secure parking at one of three lots
5:15 PM – Leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoy lagoon views
5:30 PM – Kids enjoy splash park or playground (depending on age)
6:15 PM – Mini golf round for the family
7:00 PM – Dinner at waterfront restaurant with lagoon views
8:00 PM – Secure spot for musical fountain show
8:15 PM – Watch spectacular fountain performance
8:30 PM – Evening stroll, gelato or dessert from kiosks
9:00 PM – Optional: electric boat ride or kayaking
10:00 PM – Final fountain show before departure
Estimated costs: Splash Park (AED 25-30) + Mini Golf (AED 40 for two) + Dinner (AED 150-200) + Boat ride optional (AED 50) = AED 215-320 for family of four (excluding meal)
Budget-friendly alternative: Skip paid activities and enjoy free fountain shows, playground time, and picnic on the lawns = AED 0-50 (food only)
Family-Friendly Features
Why families love Al Majaz Waterfront:
✓ Safe environment: Well-maintained facilities, security presence, enclosed children’s areas
✓ Variety of activities: Something for every age group from toddlers to grandparents
✓ Free entertainment: World-class fountain shows without admission fees
✓ Ample space: Large grounds prevent overcrowding even during busy periods
✓ Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms, regular cleaning, high standards
✓ Dining options: Family restaurants with kids’ menus and casual eateries
✓ Parking availability: Over 1,000 spaces minimize parking stress
✓ Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected, share photos, or keep older kids entertained
Accessibility: The waterfront accommodates strollers easily with smooth, paved pathways throughout. Wheelchair accessibility is good, though some areas may have minor challenges.
Events and Festivals
Al Majaz Waterfront hosts various exciting events, concerts, and cultural festivals throughout the year. The 1,000-seat amphitheatre serves as the venue for many performances including:
- Cultural celebrations during UAE National Day and other holidays
- Musical concerts featuring local and international artists
- Traditional performances showcasing Emirati heritage
- Seasonal festivals and community events
- Corporate events and private functions
Check ahead: Visit the official Al Majaz Waterfront website or social media channels for current event schedules and special programming.
Nearby Attractions: Extending Your Sharjah Experience
Blue Souk (1 km): Traditional market famous for textiles, gold, and handicrafts. Just 5 minutes away, perfect for shopping before or after waterfront visit.
Al Qasba (nearby): Another waterfront destination featuring canal-side dining, Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel, and cultural venues.
Al Noor Island: Beautiful butterfly house and art installations on lagoon island, creating peaceful nature escape.
Sharjah City Centre: Major shopping mall opposite the waterfront, convenient for shopping and additional dining options.
Sharjah Heritage Area: Explore traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and Souk Al Arsah market.
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
Parking strategy: Arrive by 5 PM on weekends to secure convenient parking. P2 offers electric vehicle charging. Consider ride-sharing during peak times to avoid parking challenges.
Fountain viewing: The fountain area gets crowded quickly before shows. Arrive 30 minutes early on weekends for premium viewing spots. Weekday evenings offer more relaxed viewing experiences.
Budget tips: Entry and fountain shows are free. Pack snacks and drinks to minimize food costs. The most expensive items are paid activities (splash park, mini golf, boats), so prioritize what your family enjoys most.
Photography: Golden hour (pre-sunset) provides beautiful natural lighting. Fountain shows after 8 PM offer dramatic nighttime photographs. Bring fully charged devices as photo opportunities abound.
Food options: Restaurants can be pricey. The waterfront allows outside food, so consider bringing picnic supplies to enjoy on the lawns – a budget-friendly and popular choice among local families.
Best value activity: Kayaking offers unlimited time for just AED 20 – extraordinary value for active families or couples.
Weather preparation: Bring sunscreen for daytime visits (even winter). Light jackets useful for evening visits October-March. Stay hydrated in summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Al Majaz Waterfront really free to enter?
A: Yes! Park entry is completely free. You only pay for specific activities like mini golf, splash park, or boat rides. The fountain shows, playgrounds, walking areas, and general waterfront access cost nothing.
Q: What time does the musical fountain start?
A: Shows typically begin around 6:30-8:00 PM and run every 30 minutes until approximately 11:30 PM. Exact timings may vary seasonally. Each show lasts about 5 minutes.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks?
A: Yes, many families bring picnic supplies and enjoy meals on the waterfront lawns. However, the area also features numerous restaurants and snack kiosks if you prefer purchasing food.
Q: Is there parking available?
A: Yes, over 1,000 parking spaces across three lots (P1, P2, P3). Parking fees apply (nominal charges). Electric vehicle charging available at P2.
Q: How long should I plan to spend there?
A: Minimum 2-3 hours to experience fountain shows and enjoy the atmosphere. Full day visits (5-6 hours) work well for families wanting to try multiple activities.
Q: Is it suitable for young children?
A: Absolutely! The splash park, playgrounds, safe environment, and family-friendly atmosphere make it ideal for all ages including toddlers.
Q: Can we swim in Khalid Lagoon?
A: No, swimming isn’t permitted in the lagoon. However, the splash park provides water play for children, and kayaking/boat rides allow water access.
Q: Are there prayer facilities?
A: Yes, the beautiful Al Taqwa Mosque located within the waterfront welcomes worshippers. Clean facilities, spacious prayer halls, and welcoming atmosphere.
Q: What’s the best day to visit to avoid crowds?
A: Weekdays (Sunday-Thursday) are notably quieter than weekends. For the most peaceful experience, visit weekday evenings.
Q: How far is it from Dubai?
A: Approximately 25-30 minutes by car from Dubai city center via Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). Very accessible for day trips.
The Verdict: Why Al Majaz Waterfront Deserves Your Visit
Al Majaz Waterfront succeeds where many tourist destinations fail – it remains genuinely accessible while delivering world-class experiences. The combination of free entry, spectacular fountain shows, comprehensive facilities, and beautiful waterfront setting creates a destination that welcomes everyone rather than just those who can afford premium attractions.
Choose Al Majaz Waterfront if you want: ✓ Free, high-quality family entertainment
✓ Beautiful outdoor spaces for relaxation
✓ Diverse activities for all age groups
✓ Cultural experiences reflecting Emirati heritage
✓ Clean, safe, well-maintained environment
✓ Convenient Sharjah location with ample parking
✓ Budget-friendly day out with optional paid activities
The waterfront represents Sharjah’s values perfectly – inclusive, family-oriented, culturally rich, and thoughtfully designed. Whether you’re a UAE resident seeking weekend escapes or a tourist wanting authentic Emirati experiences beyond Dubai’s commercialization, Al Majaz Waterfront delivers surprising depth and genuine joy.
The Sharjah Musical Fountain alone justifies the visit, but the complete experience – from children’s laughter echoing through splash parks to couples strolling hand-in-hand along the lagoon at sunset, from families sharing picnics on pristine lawns to friends enjoying leisurely dinners overlooking the water – creates moments that transform simple visits into cherished memories.
Pack your camera, bring the family, and discover why Al Majaz Waterfront has become Sharjah’s most beloved destination. The fountain awaits, the lagoon sparkles, and your perfect evening on the Khalid Lagoon waterfront is just one visit away.
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