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Updated March 2024
Sharjah International Airport (مطار الشارقة الدولي) (IATA code: SHJ) is an international airport located in Sharjah, a city renowned for its rich heritage and cultural preservation. The airport is the third largest airfreight hub in the Middle East and is the home base of the low-cost carrier Air Arabia. If you are planning a trip to or passing through Sharjah, it is imperative to familiarize yourself with the airport procedures for a seamless travel experience.
In this article, Wego presents a detailed guide to Sharjah Airport, providing valuable information about arriving at and departing from the airport.
Table of Contents
Sharjah Airport guide
Shrouded in modernity and innovation, Sharjah International Airport is a testament to the region’s aviation prowess. Established in 1977, this prominent airport has been a vital domestic and international travel hub.
With its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location, Sharjah International Airport has played a pivotal role in connecting the world to the treasures of Sharjah. As a bustling gateway, it continues to evolve and adapt, catering to the growing demands of travelers and embodying the spirit of progress.
Carry-on and hand baggage
Make sure you don’t have any of the prohibited items before arriving at the airport. Baggage rules apply as follows:
- only limited liquids (up to 100ml) can be carried into the Departures lounge through airport security. This includes bottled toiletries, drinks, fragrances, cosmetics and all frozen liquids. All bottles of liquid should be placed in a clear, re-sealable 20cm x 20cm plastic bag to be presented to staff at the X-ray screening point.
- baggage must have a flat surface with dimensions not larger than 90cm long, 75cm high and 60cm wide. In case of non-compliance, it will proceed to the oversized baggage counter.
- two items of baggage taped together will not be accepted at Check-in.
- medicines and special foodstuffs such as baby food should be carried separately. You may be asked to provide proof of authenticity for any medicine, such as a prescription or letter from a medical practitioner.
Smart Gates
Use the Smart Gates at the Sharjah International Airport to pass through immigration quickly and easily. Register for free with your passport at any Smart Gates registration counter inside the airport. Mentioned below are the steps on how to use smart gates:
- place your passport photo page on the e-reader
- scan your boarding pass facing the barcode towards the e-reader (applicable for departing passengers only)
- enter the smart gate and stand in the designated area
- place your luggage next to you. Remove any spectacles, hats, or caps
- look at the camera
- once you complete the procedure, the smart gate will automatically open, and you can proceed with your journey.
On arrival procedure
Once the passenger has arrived at the Sharjah International Airport, it is important for them to perform these steps:
- check the display screens after immigration for your baggage belt number. Bulk baggage and items like strollers can be collected at the usual baggage claim area.
- free baggage trolleys are available; if you need assistance, the airport offers a porter service for a charge.
- if you have lost or damaged baggage, proceed to the Lost & Found counter in the baggage claim area for assistance. You can also contact the handling agent representing your airline.
Sharjah Airport arrivals and departures
You can check your departure and arrival status, timing, and terminal by visiting the passenger arrival and passenger departure options on the Sharjah’s International Airport website.
Furthermore, passengers can track cargo arrival and cargo departure through the airport’s website.
Sharjah Airport terminals
As of now, there are three active terminals at the Sharjah airport. The details for the terminals are mentioned below:
Terminal 1
At the Sharjah International Airport, terminal 1 is used for departure and arrival. It caters to all the airline traffic directed towards the airport.
The airlines that operate at this terminal are:
- Rossiya
- Jordan Aviation
- Cham Wings
- Airblue
- Air Arabia
- Etihad Cargo
- Indigo
- Air India
- Air India Express
- Egypt Air
- Pakistan International Airline
- Syrian Arab Airlines
- Singapore Airline Cargo
- Egypt Air Cargo
- Air Peace
- Pegasus
- Turkish Airlines
- Ethiopian Cargo
- Emirates SkyCargo
- Kenya Airways
- Atlas Air
- Qatar Airways
- Royal Flight
- SalamAir
- Serene Air
- SkyUp Airlines
- Ural Air
- Utair
- Uzbekistan Airways
- Vistara
- Aeroflot
- Fly Arystan
- Fly Egypt
- Nordwind
- Oman Air
- UPS Courier
- MNG Airlines
- Saudia Cargo
- Astral Aviation
- DHL Express
- Belavia
- Biman
- US-Bangla
- Tarco Aviation
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 is dedicated to catering to only cargo airlines.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is also dedicated to catering to only cargo airlines.
Sharjah Airport expansion
Sharjah Airport Authority has reported a significant surge in passenger traffic for 2023, marking a remarkable 17.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. Handling over 15.3 million passengers, the airport has demonstrated robust growth in its passenger operations.
In addition to passenger growth, Sharjah Airport witnessed a notable rise in air cargo activity, with a total volume exceeding 141,000 tonnes in 2023. Moreover, the airport added seven new passenger destinations and expanded its air cargo services to include Houston, Kigali, and Nasik, highlighting the airport’s potential to provide efficient services and position itself as a preferred hub for travel and cargo in the region.
The ambitious AED 2.4 billion expansion project is slated for completion by 2026 and aims to elevate service standards and boost flight capacity. With these enhancements, the airport anticipates attracting more airline customers, particularly from European and East Asian markets.
Sharjah Airport lounges
There are two lounges available at the Sharjah International Airport.
Al Diyafa Lounge
Travelers can maximize their waiting time at Sharjah Airport by indulging in the luxurious experience of the premium lounges. These exclusive spaces offer a range of benefits and superior facilities, allowing passengers to unwind and rejuvenate before boarding their flights. Located conveniently and easily, all airport lounges operate round the clock every day of the year.
During the departure, the services provided to passengers are:
- a friendly meet and greet by the Protocol team from the departure gate
- porterage service
- a quick procedure by completing travel procedures, passports and security inspections
- Al Diyafah lounge access
- transportation of passengers by Al Diyafah cars to the aircraft (in case the flight is not available on the air bridge)
During the arrival, the services provided to passengers are:
- a friendly meet and greet by the Protocol team from the aircraft gate
- transportation of passengers by Al Diyafah cars to the terminal (in case the flight is not available on the air bridge)
- quick service by completing passport procedures and security inspections
- baggage pick-up service at the baggage claim area
The Lounge
With seating available for over 170 guests, The Lounge boasts comfortable arrangements that cater to the needs of every traveler. It also features a dedicated quiet zone, allowing passengers to find solace and relaxation amidst the bustling airport ambiance. An interactive children’s play area and shower facilities are also provided to ensure a comfortable and refreshing experience.
The Lounge provides facilities like:
- dedicated business/working corner
- Wi-Fi
- interactive kids’ play area with family rest area
- disabled access
- refreshments
- shower facilities with toiletries and towels provided (subject to payment)
- separate smoking room
- International newspapers and magazines
- televisions
Sharjah Airport services
Apart from the lounges, the Sharjah International Airport also provides other services like:
Duty-free
At Sharjah Airport, travelers can enjoy a wide range of duty-free shops offering diverse products like apparel, perfumes, watches, gifts, and more. With popular branded stores available, passengers can have a delightful shopping experience right within the airport. Whether searching for a special gift or indulging in retail therapy, Sharjah Airport’s duty-free shops are convenient and satisfying destinations for all your shopping needs.
Lost and found
In case of missing baggage, passengers can rely on the dedicated Lost and Found counter in the arrival lounge. The airport authorities are known for their prompt and efficient service, ensuring a quick resolution to any inquiries. Operating 24/7, the Lost and Found counter is always ready to assist passengers in reuniting with their belongings as swiftly as possible.
Restaurants and cafeterias
Sharjah Airport provides a diverse selection of dining options to cater to travelers’ culinary preferences. From well-known fast-food outlets to cozy coffee shops, there is something to please every palate. Restaurants like McDonald’s, Costa Coffee, Dunkin Donuts, Subway, Mumbai Spices, Chinese House Restaurant, World News Café, Zaithoon Cafe, and more can be found in various locations throughout the airport, making it easy for passengers to access delicious cuisine during their time at the airport.
Mobile application
The Sharjah Airport offers travelers an app for real-time flight updates, status notifications, detailed terminal maps with indoor navigation, a boarding pass scanner, and exclusive deals on food and shopping. This app is available on both iOS and Android platforms.
Sharjah airport location
Address: Sharjah Airport P.O.Box 8 Sharjah, UAE
Sharjah Airport customer service
For further queries, you can contact the Sharjah International Airport via the following details:
- Phone: 00971 6 558 1111
- Fax: 00971 6 558 1131 (or) 00971 6 558 0449
- Email: [email protected]
