Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)

About Sharjah International Airport (SHJ)

Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) is a key aviation hub in the UAE and the home base of Air Arabia, the Middle East's largest low-cost carrier. Located just 15 km from Dubai, it connects the region to destinations across the Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and Europe, and is a popular budget-friendly alternative to Dubai International Airport.

Sharjah Airport Details – Sharjah International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Sharjah International Airport
• IATA Code: SHJ
• ICAO Code: OMSJ
• Address: Airport Road, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
• Airport Pin Code: P.O. Box 88
• Distance from Sharjah City Centre: Approximately 10 km from Sharjah city centre and 15 km from Dubai
• Phone Number: +971 6 558 1111
• Old Name: Sharjah Airport (known informally before its international designation)

How Many Airports in Sharjah?

Sharjah has one commercial airport, SHJ. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC), both within easy driving distance for flexible travellers.

How Many Terminals in Sharjah Airport?

Sharjah International Airport has two terminals:

• Terminal 1: The main terminal for all Air Arabia flights and most international departures, with full check-in, immigration, and retail facilities.
• Terminal 2: A smaller terminal for select charter flights and low-frequency regional routes with limited facilities.

Distance Between Sharjah Airport Terminals

Both terminals are within the same campus but are a short drive apart with no shuttle service between them. Passengers switching terminals must use a taxi. Confirm your terminal in advance, particularly if travelling on a charter or regional carrier.

How Many Runways in Sharjah Airport?

SHJ has two runways. The primary runway is approximately 4,060 metres long, capable of handling wide-body aircraft, making it one of the longer runways in the Gulf. A secondary runway supports lighter aircraft and general aviation. The airport also operates as a significant regional cargo hub.

Visa and Immigration for Sharjah Airport – Information for Indian Travellers

Sharjah is part of the UAE, so visa rules are the same as for Dubai. Indian passport holders must arrange a UAE visa before travel:

• UAE Tourist Visa: Apply via Air Arabia's website, a registered travel agent, or the UAE ICP portal. Visas are available for 30-day and 60-day durations, single or multiple entry.
• Visa on Arrival: Not available for Indian citizens unless they hold a valid US, UK, or EU visa or residency. Verify current rules before travel.
• OCI Cardholders: OCI status does not grant visa-free UAE entry. A valid UAE visa is still required.
• Transit: Airside transit generally does not require a visa. For layovers exceeding 8 hours or if exiting the airport, a transit visa may be needed. Confirm with your airline.
• Documents Required: Valid Indian passport (6+ months validity), return ticket, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance (recommended).
• At Immigration: First-time visitors go through standard counters for biometric capture. Immigration at SHJ is generally quicker than at busier Dubai airports.

Apply for your UAE visa at least 7 to 10 days before travel.

Sharjah Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Lounges: The Al Majaz Lounge in Terminal 1 is open to business class passengers and via paid day pass, offering refreshments, Wi-Fi, and quiet seating.
• Duty-Free and Shopping: Terminal 1 has duty-free with perfumes, electronics, and regional products. Retail is more limited than at Dubai or Abu Dhabi airports.
• Dining: Cafes and fast-food outlets in Terminal 1 serve Arabic, Indian, and international fare, adequate for short layovers.
• Other Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, medical facilities, currency exchange, and ATMs.

Things to Do in Sharjah Airport

• Browse the duty-free section in Terminal 1 for perfumes, snacks, and local souvenirs.
• Grab a meal at one of the Terminal 1 cafes offering Arabic and Indian dishes.
• Use the Al Majaz Lounge via a day pass for a quieter and more comfortable wait.
• Exchange currency at the airport counters before heading into Sharjah or Dubai.

Places to Visit Near Sharjah Airport

• Sharjah City Centre (10 km): One of the UAE's most culturally rich cities, with the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Heritage Area, and Blue Souk all within easy reach.
• Al Majaz Waterfront (12 km): A popular public park and waterfront promenade along Khalid Lagoon, great for an evening stroll.
• Dubai (15 km): Dubai's main attractions, including the Dubai Creek, Dubai Mall, and Deira Souks, are a short taxi or bus ride away.

FAQs About Sharjah Airport – Sharjah International Airport

What is the Official Name of Sharjah Airport?

The official name is Sharjah International Airport, operated by Sharjah Airport Authority under the Government of Sharjah.

What is the IATA Code for Sharjah International Airport?

The IATA code is SHJ and the ICAO code is OMSJ.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Sharjah Airport?

There are no domestic flights in the UAE between emirates, as inter-emirate travel is done by road. Terminal 1 handles the majority of international flights and Terminal 2 serves select charter and regional routes.

Where is Sharjah Airport Located?

Sharjah International Airport is located on Airport Road in Sharjah, approximately 10 km from Sharjah city centre and 15 km from central Dubai.

When Was Sharjah Airport Built?

Sharjah Airport was established in 1932, one of the oldest in the Gulf. It expanded significantly in the 1970s and grew further with the launch of Air Arabia in 2003.

Is SHJ Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Sharjah International Airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with flights, immigration, and check-in available around the clock.

How Far is Sharjah Airport from Sharjah City Center?

The airport is approximately 10 km from Sharjah city centre. A taxi takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Public buses also connect the airport to Sharjah and to Dubai's Al Sabkha bus terminal.

What Airlines Operate from SHJ?

Air Arabia operates the vast majority of routes from SHJ. Other carriers include charter and regional airlines serving South Asia, Africa, and the CIS region.

Are There Lounges at Sharjah Airport?

Yes. The Al Majaz Lounge in Terminal 1 is open to business class passengers and all travellers via a paid day pass, with refreshments, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.