This tiny emirate only 40 minutes from Dubai has been appointed a UNESCO centre of Arabic culture and heritage. With 15 museums, galleries, workshops and heritage sights like the 1820 Al Hosn Fort, Sharjah offers genuine insights into the local culture. It’s much more conservative than Dubai however – no alcohol is served, and tank tops and shorts will cause offence. Wandering about Sharjah’s souks and alleys, you could be in a tale straight out of 1,001 Nights.