The Emirate of Sharjah (Arabic: الشارقة) extends along approximately 16 kilometres of the United Arab Emirates's Gulf coastline and for more than 80 kilometres into the interior.
In addition there are three enclaves belonging to Sharjah situated on the east coast, bordering the Gulf of Oman. These are Kalba, Khor Fakkan and Dibba al-Husn. The emirate has an area of 2,590 square kilometres, which is equivalent to 3.3 per cent of the country's total area, excluding the islands.
The capital city of Sharjah, which overlooks the Persian Gulf, contains the main administrative and commercial centers together with an especially impressive array of cultural and traditional projects, including several museums. Distinctive landmarks are the two major covered souqs, reflecting Islamic design; a number of recreational areas and public parks such as Al Jazeirah Fun Park and Al Buheirah Corniche. The city is also notable for its numerous elegant mosques. Links with the outside world are provided by Sharjah International Airport and Port Khalid.
Sharjah also encompasses some important oasis areas, the most famous of which is Dhaid where a wide range of vegetables and fruits are cultivated on its rich and fertile soil. Khor Fakkan provides Sharjah with a major east coast port. An offshore island of Sir Abu Nuáir belongs to Sharjah. Sharjah also claims the Iranian-held island of Abu Musa.
Born in the Surankote village of Jammu region in 1900, Hussain was dazzled by the beauty of Sharja Bibi, a girl in his village.
In 1942, he proposed to her, but since he had already been married twice and Sharja was still a virgin, the proposal was turned down by her family.
While Hussain kept surviving the enemy's bullets and cannons in far-off lands, Sharja was married to a neighbour by her suspicious brothers, who knew she also secretly loved Hussain.
Sharja is the largest of all the Emirates and is overshadowed by Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which is a shame because it is a fascinating place.
Sharja took the lead in the development of the UAE's tourist development and although its larger neighbours (Dubai and Abu Dhabi) have taken over, it is still a beautiful place.
Sharja is on the northern coast, adjacent to Dubai.