Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) — Family-Friendly Guide
Sharjah International Airport is one of the easiest, most predictable airports in the UAE — and for many families traveling on budget airlines or regional routes, SHJ is an unexpectedly smooth and stress-free entry point into Dubai.
While Sharjah is a separate emirate, the airport sits close enough to Dubai that many families fly into SHJ without realizing how convenient it actually is. With a compact layout, straightforward arrivals, and fast-moving queues, SHJ is a smart choice for:
- Families flying Air Arabia
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Late-night arrivals
- Parents who want predictable logistics
- Families staying in northern Dubai neighborhoods
Quick Trip Tools
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Why Families Choose SHJ
Sharjah International Airport is calm, compact, and well-organized, offering one of the smoothest arrivals in the region. Compared to DXB, SHJ can feel:
- Less crowded — no overwhelming terminals
- Fast-moving — short immigration lines
- Stroller-friendly — very short walking distances
- Consistent — predictable arrival environment
Because SHJ caters heavily to families and regional carriers, staff are very experienced with children, first-time travelers, and large family groups.
What to Expect at SHJ
SHJ is smaller than DXB and DWC, but well-equipped. Inside you'll find:
- Clean restrooms and baby-changing stations
- Prayer rooms for men and women
- Food courts and quick-service restaurants
- Currency exchange & SIM card counters
- Car rental desks directly inside arrivals
- Fast baggage claim — one of the quickest in the region
If you're traveling with toddlers or a lot of luggage, SHJ’s compactness is a huge advantage.
Where SHJ Is Located
SHJ sits north of Dubai, close to Sharjah City. Travel times to Dubai depend on where you’re staying:
- ✓ 15–25 minutes to Dubai Creek
- ✓ 20–30 minutes to Deira / Old Dubai
- ✓ 30–45 minutes to Downtown Dubai
- ✓ 40–50 minutes to Dubai Marina / JBR
SHJ is ideal if your hotel is in older Dubai neighborhoods or anywhere near the northern side of the city.
Transportation: How to Leave Sharjah Airport
Taxi (Best Option)
Taxis are widely available, metered, and extremely reliable. Expect affordable rates to Dubai.
Uber / Careem
Available but may have slightly longer wait times than DXB.
Rental Car
A great option if exploring Sharjah or northern Dubai. See rental prices.
Hotel Shuttles
Some Sharjah hotels offer free or paid airport transfers.
Where to Stay if You’re Arriving at SHJ
Depending on your trip goals, the best family areas reachable from SHJ are:
- Dubai Creek — closest and great for cultural experiences
- Deira / Old Dubai — affordable, walkable, great food
- Downtown Dubai — central and easy to connect elsewhere
- Sharjah Beachfront — quiet, clean, family-oriented
Explore hotels across Dubai: See family-friendly hotels.
Continue Planning Your Family Trip
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