Quran Roundabout Sharjah – History, Location, & Best Time to Visit
Driving through central Sharjah, you cannot miss the giant open Quran standing in the middle of a busy roundabout. Officially called Cultural Square, the Quran Roundabout is one of the best-known landmarks in Sharjah and a symbol of the emirate’s cultural and Islamic identity.
This guide covers the history of the Quran Roundabout, the monument, the buildings around Cultural Square, how to see it and what is nearby.
Quran Roundabout Sharjah History
In 1987, the Government of Sharjah built the Cultural Palace on this square, and a large gas flame was lit in the middle of the roundabout. It was known as “Shula”, which means flame in Arabic. The flame was very large, and many residents felt uneasy about having it in the middle of a busy road, so it was later removed.
It was replaced by the monument of the Holy Quran that stands there today. According to Gulf News, the monument was designed by a Spanish architect who was a close friend of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, and the two worked together on its design. A verse of the Quran is engraved inside in gold-plated calligraphy.
Quran Roundabout Sharjah Location
The Quran Roundabout sits at Cultural Square in central Sharjah. It is surrounded by some of the emirate’s most important buildings and is a common landmark for giving directions. Search for “Cultural Square Sharjah” or “Quran Roundabout” on Google Maps to find it.
The Quran Monument
The centrepiece is a large open Quran resting on a tall pedestal in the middle of landscaped lawns. It is one of the largest Quran sculptures in the world and is lit up at night. Sharjah, named UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019, sees the monument as a symbol of its love for knowledge and books.
Buildings Around Cultural Square
- Cultural Palace
- Sharjah Library
- Government Departments Building
- Sharjah Ruler’s Office
- Ahmed Bin Hanbal Mosque
Together, these buildings make Cultural Square one of the most impressive spots in the city for architecture lovers.
Can You Visit the Quran Monument?
The monument stands in the middle of a busy roundabout, and the central lawns are not open to pedestrians. There is no entry fee or ticket, because you view the monument from outside. For safety:
- Do not stop your car on the roundabout to take photos.
- Take photos from the surrounding pavements, or as a passenger while driving past.
- Visit after sunset to see the monument lit up.
- Combine it with a Sharjah city tour, as many tours include a photo stop here.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to see the Quran Roundabout is in the cooler months from October to April. Evenings are ideal, when traffic is lighter and the monument is illuminated.
How to Reach the Quran Roundabout
- By car or taxi: the easiest way. Follow Google Maps to Cultural Square and park in a nearby public car park.
- From Dubai by bus: take an RTA bus such as the E307 to Al Jubail Bus Station, then a short taxi ride.
- Sharjah city buses: check the RTA Sharjah app for routes that pass Cultural Square.
Nearby Attractions
- Al Noor Island and its Butterfly House on Khalid Lagoon
- Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront
- Sharjah Heritage Area and the Heart of Sharjah
Note that the Quran Roundabout is not the same as the Quranic Park in Dubai, which has the Glass House, Cave of Miracles and Quranic gardens.
FAQs
Is there an entry fee for the Quran Roundabout in Sharjah?
No. The monument is in the middle of a public roundabout and is viewed from outside, so there is no ticket.
Can I walk up to the Quran monument?
No. The centre of the roundabout is not open to pedestrians. View it from the surrounding pavements.
What is the official name of the Quran Roundabout?
It is officially called Cultural Square.
Who designed the Quran monument?
Gulf News reports that it was designed by a Spanish architect working closely with the Ruler of Sharjah.
Conclusion
The Quran Roundabout, or Cultural Square, is a striking symbol of Sharjah’s culture and faith. Visit in the evening to see the illuminated monument, enjoy the architecture of the surrounding buildings and combine it with nearby spots such as Al Noor Island and Al Qasba.
