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Updated July 2023

Sharjah International Airport (مطار الشارقة الدولي) is an international airport located in Sharjah, a city renowned for its rich heritage and cultural preservation. The airport as 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 travellers 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
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 on 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 passenger arrival and passenger departure options at 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 has achieved remarkable growth in the first half of 2023, with a 24.4 per cent year-on-year surge in traffic, resulting in a total of seven million passengers. This impressive performance comes amid ongoing efforts to expand the airport and increase its passenger handling capacity to 20 million in the coming years.

In addition to passenger growth, Sharjah Airport has also experienced significant development in cargo operations. The airport handled more than 70,000 tons of cargo, including 6,000 tons of sea-air cargo, further enhancing its position as a key player in the region’s cargo logistics.

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

Travellers 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 passports 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 traveller. It also features a dedicated quiet zone, allowing passengers to find solace and relaxation amidst the bustling airport ambience. 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, travellers 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 travellers’ culinary preferences. From well-known fast-food outlets to cosy 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.