Maraya Art Centre
Sharjah's vibrant hub for contemporary art, offering free exhibitions, engaging workshops, and film screenings in a peaceful setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Maraya Art Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sharjah's vibrant hub for contemporary art, offering free exhibitions, engaging workshops, and film screenings in a peaceful setting.
"A lovely peaceful place to visit and enjoy all types of art work."
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free; just provide your contact details. :ticket:
📅 Check Workshop Schedules
Book in advance for popular pottery or resin art classes. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rotating Art Exhibitions
Various galleries
Discover thought-provoking pieces from local and international artists, often with a focus on cultural narratives.
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Engaging Art Workshops
Workshop spaces
Participate in hands-on sessions like pottery or resin art, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Film Screenings
Second Floor Screening Room
Experience curated film screenings that often explore social and cultural themes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Big Impact
Sharjah's Artistic Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free; just provide your contact details. :ticket:
📅 Check Workshop Schedules
Book in advance for popular pottery or resin art classes. :calendar:
📍 Al Qasba Location
Easily accessible in Sharjah, a short drive from Dubai.
📸 Reflective Photo Ops
While not the Al Ula Maraya, the art center offers visually appealing spaces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is free; just provide your contact details. :ticket:
📅 Check Workshop Schedules
Book in advance for popular pottery or resin art classes. :calendar:
📍 Al Qasba Location
Easily accessible in Sharjah, a short drive from Dubai.
📸 Reflective Photo Ops
While not the Al Ula Maraya, the art center offers visually appealing spaces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Maraya Art Centre for its free admission and diverse, thought-provoking exhibitions. The hands-on workshops, particularly for pottery and resin art, are highlighted as enjoyable experiences for all ages. The peaceful atmosphere and artistic innovation make it a recommended cultural spot in Sharjah.
"I had the pleasure of visiting maraya art centre and it was a great experience, no entrance fee they only ask for your contact information and you're free to see the exhibition. We visited the two programs that were active and had a great time. They also do workshops as well you can see the ones for june attached to this review."
joy
"We did pottery class was perfect with ms shaza intelligent lady and patient it was for kids but i spent agood time with her"
Hiba Mohamed
"I went there to attend an art workshop. It was Resin Art, this was my first time doing such an art and I’m thankful for Maraya Organizors for arranging such a workshop for us. I could also see some amazing work done by Mr Chris Wood through liquid light.
What a lovely peaceful place to visit and enjoy all types of art work.
Looking forward to attend more art workshops here."
Maria Mustafa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maraya Art Centre is located in Al Qasba, Sharjah. It's easily accessible by car or taxi. If coming from Dubai, it's about a 25-minute drive. Public transport options are also available within Sharjah.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available in the Al Qasba area, where the art centre is situated.
While specific accessibility details aren't widely published, most modern cultural centers in the UAE strive for accessibility. It's advisable to contact them directly for specific needs.
Opening hours can vary depending on exhibitions and events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! Maraya Art Centre is a popular destination for those visiting from Dubai, offering a cultural escape just a short drive away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Maraya Art Centre offers free admission. Visitors are asked to provide their contact information upon entry.
For general exhibitions, advance booking is usually not required due to free entry. However, for specific workshops or special events, pre-registration might be necessary.
Typically, they will ask for basic contact information such as your name and email address or phone number.
Generally, there are no age restrictions for visiting the art centre itself, but specific workshops or exhibitions might have age recommendations.
Yes, you can visit Maraya Art Centre solely to explore the current art exhibitions and enjoy the space without participating in a workshop.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Maraya Art Centre hosts a diverse range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and digital art, often featuring regional and international artists.
Guided tours are not always consistently offered. It's best to inquire at the center upon arrival or check their schedule for any available tours.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain artworks or exhibitions.
Visitors describe it as a lovely, peaceful, and artistic space, perfect for enjoying various forms of art and cultural experiences.
Yes, the center frequently hosts film screenings, art workshops, talks, and other cultural events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Maraya Art Centre itself does not typically have a dedicated cafe or restaurant. However, the Al Qasba area offers numerous dining options nearby.
It's generally advised not to bring outside food and drinks into art galleries to protect the artworks. Water might be an exception, but check for signage.
Al Qasba boasts a wide array of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining, offering various cuisines to suit different tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
The modern architecture and the art installations themselves provide excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding Al Qasba area also offers scenic views, especially at night.
Professional photography or commercial shoots usually require prior permission. For personal use, casual photography is generally fine.
Always be mindful of other visitors and the artworks. Avoid flash photography if it's prohibited, and never touch the art.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond workshops, the exhibitions themselves can be a source of wonder for children, sparking their imagination and curiosity. While some contemporary art might require explanation, the visual nature of art can be captivating for all ages. The free admission also makes it an economical choice for family outings.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives
+2 Engage with cutting-edge works and discover new talents. The opportunity to participate in specialized art workshops, such as resin art or advanced sketching, provides a valuable chance for creatives to hone their skills and experiment with new techniques. The center also serves as a networking space, potentially connecting you with fellow artists and art lovers.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Dubai
The free admission makes it an easy addition to your itinerary. Combine your visit to the art centre with exploring other attractions in Al Qasba, such as enjoying a meal by the canal or taking a ride on the Eye of Sharjah. This creates a well-rounded and enriching day out, showcasing a different facet of the UAE's cultural landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Contemporary Art
+2Recent exhibitions have highlighted themes ranging from Palestinian identity and resilience to abstract explorations of emotion and memory. The curatorial approach often emphasizes a connection to the region while also embracing global artistic trends. This commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of contemporary art makes Maraya Art Centre a vital cultural destination for both local residents and international visitors seeking to understand the pulse of modern art in the UAE.
+1Beyond static displays, the center actively fosters artistic engagement through its programming. This includes film screenings that complement exhibition themes, artist talks that offer deeper insights into creative processes, and collaborative projects that bridge different artistic disciplines. The goal is to create a holistic artistic experience that extends beyond simply viewing art to actively participating in its discourse.
Hands-On Art Experiences
Popular workshops have included sessions on pottery, where participants can mold clay into their own creations under the guidance of skilled instructors like Ms. Shaza. Resin art classes offer a chance to experiment with vibrant colors and textures, while other sessions might delve into painting, sketching, or even digital art forms. These hands-on experiences are often highlighted by visitors as a particularly rewarding aspect of their visit.
These workshops are often scheduled in advance and may have limited spots, so it's advisable to check the Maraya Art Centre's schedule and book your participation ahead of time. They offer a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, learn a new skill, and take home a unique piece of art you've made yourself.
Cultural Hub in Al Qasba
The presence of Maraya Art Centre within Al Qasba enhances the area's appeal as a cultural hub. It draws visitors interested in art and provides a space for creative expression amidst the broader entertainment offerings. This synergy between the art centre and its surroundings creates a well-rounded experience for visitors, allowing them to combine artistic exploration with other leisure activities.
Being part of Al Qasba also means Maraya Art Centre is easily accessible and well-connected. Its location makes it a convenient stop for those exploring Sharjah or looking for a cultural excursion from nearby Dubai. The precinct's amenities, including ample parking and a pleasant atmosphere, further contribute to the ease and enjoyment of visiting the art centre.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit