House of Wisdom

The House of Wisdom is Sharjah's contemporary library and cultural centre on the airport road. It was commissioned by the Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, as the legacy of the city's UNESCO World Book Capital 2019 title — Sharjah was the first Gulf city to hold it. The centre opened in December 2020.

What to see

The building was designed by Foster + Partners: a two-storey glass pavilion of more than 12,000 square metres under a vast 'floating' roof that overhangs by 15 metres on every side. Inside, sculptural staircases rise around a densely planted courtyard inspired by the Al Ain oasis to suspended pods for quiet work, reading and exhibitions. The collection holds more than 100,000 printed and digital books, and there is an Espresso Book Machine that prints and binds books on demand, the Al Jazri FabLab with 3D printers and laser cutters, The Little Reader children's area, a prayer room and a women-only lounge.

In the garden to the north stands The Scroll by British sculptor Gerry Judah, a steel spiral about 36 metres tall and weighing about 72 tonnes, inspired by ancient Arabic scrolls; you can walk around and beneath it. To the south is a knowledge garden with native plants, a water feature and a playground. In 2025 the House of Wisdom was named Best Arab Library at the Sharjah Library Literature Award.

Getting there

The House of Wisdom is on Sharjah International Airport Road, near Sharjah Airport and University City, about 10 km from central Sharjah. A car or taxi is easiest, and parking is free. From Dubai the drive takes half an hour to an hour or more, depending on traffic into Sharjah.

Planning your visit

The centre opens daily at 8:00 and closes at 23:00 on weekdays and at midnight on Friday and Saturday. You can come in, sit and read for free; membership at AED 200–800 a year is needed only to borrow books, use e-resources and get discounts. Pod and room bookings, workshops and the FabLab are charged separately. An hour covers the building, garden and Scroll; allow two or three with reading and a meal. You can eat at Chie restaurant overlooking the garden or at the DROWSY coffee shop. Check the website for talks and children's workshops.

Before you go

Come towards evening, when the heat eases and The Scroll looks its best at dusk. Outside food is not allowed, nor is smoking or vaping. Children under 12 must be with an adult. Personal photos are fine, while commercial filming and vlogging need permission from management. Respect local dress and behaviour norms.