How to Get to Al Mahatta Museum by Metro or Bus?

How to Get to Al Mahatta Museum by Metro or Bus is one of the most fascinating cultural landmarks in Sharjah and a must-visit for anyone who loves aviation, history, and heritage. As a passionate UAE Explorer, you’ll find that this museum tells an extraordinary story — the story of how flight began in the UAE and how it shaped the nation’s progress.

Located on Al Estiqlal Street in the Al Qasimia Area, right opposite Sharjah Mega Mall, this museum offers a unique journey through time. Once Sharjah’s first airport, it has now been beautifully restored to showcase the development of aviation from the early 1930s to the modern era. Inside, you’ll see old aircraft, engines, historical documents, pilot uniforms, and photographs that bring the golden age of aviation to life.

Opened to the public on March 14, 2000, Al Mahatta Museum welcomes visitors of all ages to explore the wonders of flight and the story of the first airport in the Gulf region. It’s not just a museum — it’s an experience that connects the past, present, and future of the UAE’s skyward ambitions.

If you’re curious about how to reach this iconic site by public transport, what to expect during your visit, and when to go, this detailed guide from UAE Explorer covers it all.

How to Get to Al Mahatta Museum

By Metro

While Sharjah itself doesn’t have a dedicated metro system, you can reach the city conveniently through the Dubai Metro. The nearest metro station to Al Mahatta Museum is Al Qiyadah Metro Station on the Green Line, located around 11.1 kilometers away. Another nearby option is Stadium Metro Station, approximately 11.2 kilometers away, or Al Nahda Metro Station, which is roughly 12.1 kilometers distant.

Once you arrive at any of these metro stations, you can take a taxi or a connecting bus toward Sharjah’s Al Qasimia area. A taxi ride from Al Qiyadah Metro Station to Al Mahatta Museum typically takes 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Bus

Traveling by bus is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to reach Al Mahatta Museum if you’re already within Sharjah or Dubai.

Bus lines that pass near Al Mahatta Museum include:

• Bus 8 – Route toward Sahara Center

• Bus 3 – Route toward Muwailah Terminal

Nearby Bus Stops:

If you’re arriving from Dubai, you can take an intercity bus to Al Jubail Bus Station, which is one of Sharjah’s main public transport hubs. From there, you can walk, catch a local bus, or take a short taxi ride to Al Mahatta Museum.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

For convenience, many visitors prefer taking a taxi or booking through ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber. Simply set your destination as Al Mahatta Museum, Al Estiqlal Street, Sharjah. Since the museum is a well-known landmark, drivers can easily find it.

Tips for Traveling

• Check public transport schedules before your trip, as routes may vary on weekends or public holidays.

• Travel during off-peak hours (between 10 AM and 3 PM) to avoid traffic congestion.

• Carry water and wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk from nearby bus stops.

• Consider combining metro, bus, and taxi for a smooth journey.

History of Al Mahatta Museum

The Al Mahatta Museum stands on the site of the first airport in the UAE and the Gulf region, built in 1932. It began as a landing strip for Imperial Airways, which used Sharjah as a refueling and rest stop on flights between Britain and India.

In those days, Sharjah was little more than a small coastal settlement. Yet, it became a vital hub in global aviation history, thanks to its strategic location between Europe and Asia. The airport included a rest house for passengers and crew, a control tower, hangars, and living quarters — all of which have been preserved and restored as part of today’s museum.

During World War II, the site was used by the British Royal Air Force, adding military significance to its aviation story. By 1977, when the new Sharjah International Airport opened, the old airfield was closed, leaving behind a rich legacy.

Two decades later, the government transformed this historical airfield into a museum to celebrate the evolution of aviation and honor Sharjah’s pioneering role in regional air travel. On March 14, 2000, the site was reopened to the public as Al Mahatta Museum.

Architecture and Design

Al Mahatta Museum retains much of its original charm, designed in the form of a fort with high walls, small external windows, and large internal courtyards. This layout reflects traditional Emirati defensive architecture, ensuring privacy, shade, and security.

The building’s earthy tones, wind towers, and wooden doors evoke the architectural style of early 20th-century Sharjah. You can still see the watchtowers that once guarded the old runway and the main rest house that served as accommodation for travelers and crew members.

The interiors have been adapted into modern galleries, but the original structures — such as the control tower and aircraft hangar — have been carefully restored. This blend of heritage and innovation gives visitors a sense of both nostalgia and discovery.

Exhibits and Attractions

The museum is divided into several sections, each telling a different part of the story of flight and technology in the UAE.

1. The Main Hangar

This is the heart of Al Mahatta Museum, where a range of vintage aircraft is displayed. Visitors can walk around, photograph, and even peek inside some planes that once soared the skies. Among the highlights are restored versions of Douglas DC-3, de Havilland Comet, and other propeller-driven planes that played a key role in early aviation.

Each aircraft is accompanied by detailed information panels explaining its design, purpose, and history, giving visitors insight into how air travel has evolved.

2. The Aviation Gallery

This section focuses on the history of flight, showcasing models, photographs, navigation tools, maps, uniforms, and flight instruments. There are also exhibits showing mankind’s earliest attempts to fly — from sketches of Leonardo da Vinci’s designs to modern-day jets.

3. The Innovation and Engineering Section

Here, visitors can explore mechanical inventions, engines, and early engineering breakthroughs. You’ll see cross-sections of jet engines, propellers, and other components that highlight the science behind aviation.

4. The Cinema Room

Interestingly, Al Mahatta was home to the first cinema in the Gulf region, established in 1945. The museum preserves this part of history by maintaining a small cinema area where vintage aviation films and documentaries are occasionally screened.

5. The Fort and Courtyard

The open courtyard area allows visitors to visualize how the site functioned as a busy airfield. You can imagine the planes landing on the sandy runway, the crew unloading cargo, and the travelers taking rest in shaded verandas.

6. The Interactive Area

Some sections of the museum include multimedia displays and interactive exhibits for children. Families can engage with educational models, screens showing flight simulations, and documentaries about aviation pioneers in the UAE.

Educational and Cultural Value

Al Mahatta Museum is not only a place of historical importance but also an educational hub for students and researchers. It plays a vital role in preserving the UAE’s aviation legacy and inspiring young minds to learn about science, technology, and innovation.

Many local schools and universities organize field trips here to help students understand how the UAE transformed from a desert trading hub to a global aviation powerhouse.

The museum also contributes to cultural tourism by connecting visitors with Sharjah’s identity as a city of heritage, learning, and creativity.

Al Mahatta Museum Opening Hours

It’s recommended to visit in the morning or early afternoon to enjoy a quiet experience before crowds arrive. During Ramadan or national holidays, timings may vary, so check in advance before planning your visit.

Ticket Prices and Entry Fees

The entry fee is highly affordable, making it accessible for families, tourists, and residents alike. Occasionally, special exhibitions or events may be included in the general ticket price.

Facilities and Services

• Parking: Free parking is available near the museum.

• Restrooms: Clean, well-maintained restrooms are located on site.

• Gift Shop: You can purchase souvenirs, books, and aviation-themed keepsakes.

• Accessibility: Some areas are wheelchair-friendly.

• Information Desk: Helpful staff can guide you through the exhibits.

• Photography: Allowed for personal use (avoid flash inside galleries).

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Al Mahatta Museum is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant for walking around Sharjah’s heritage areas. Visiting early in the day allows you to explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits comfortably.

If you’re planning a weekend trip, arrive before noon to avoid crowds and traffic.

Nearby Attractions

Sharjah is filled with museums, art galleries, and heritage sites that complement your visit to Al Mahatta Museum. Some nearby attractions include:

• Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization – showcasing centuries of Islamic art and artifacts.

• Sharjah Art Museum – one of the largest art museums in the Gulf region.

• Sharjah Heritage Museum – displaying the traditions and culture of Emirati life.

• Souq Al Arsah – one of the oldest marketplaces in the UAE.

• Central Souk (Blue Souk) – famous for jewelry, carpets, and traditional goods.

• Sharjah Corniche – a perfect place for an evening walk after your museum visit.

Tips for Visitors

1. Allocate at least two hours for your visit to explore every gallery.

2. Wear light clothing and comfortable footwear.

3. Bring a camera — there are great photo opportunities inside and outside the museum.

4. Visit the hangar first, as it’s the largest section and usually less crowded in the morning.

5. Ask museum staff about any ongoing workshops or guided tours.

6. Combine your visit with nearby museums to make the most of your trip.

7. Use public transport apps to check live bus timings.

8. Stay hydrated if walking from nearby stops.

Fun Facts About Al Mahatta Museum

• Al Mahatta was the first airport in the entire Gulf region.

• The site also hosted the first cinema in the UAE, opened in 1945.

• Some of the aircraft displayed here actually flew commercial routes during the 1930s.

• The name “Al Mahatta” means “The Station”, referring to its role as a transit stop.

• It remains one of Sharjah’s most photographed heritage landmarks.

Suggested Itinerary

If you’re spending a day in Sharjah, here’s how you can plan your visit around Al Mahatta Museum:

Morning:
Start your day at Sharjah Art Museum or Heritage Museum to explore local culture and creativity.

Afternoon:
Head to Al Mahatta Museum around 1 PM and spend about two hours exploring the exhibits and hangar.

Evening:
Walk around Central Souk (Blue Souk) for shopping or enjoy a coffee along Sharjah Corniche as the sun sets.

This combination offers the perfect balance of art, history, and leisure in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Al Mahatta Museum famous for?
Al Mahatta Museum is known as the first airport in the UAE and the Gulf region. It tells the story of aviation development from the 1930s to modern times.

2. Where is Al Mahatta Museum located?
It is located on Al Estiqlal Street in the Al Qasimia area of Sharjah, opposite Sharjah Mega Mall.

3. How can I reach Al Mahatta Museum from Dubai?
Take the Dubai Metro to Al Qiyadah Station (Green Line) and then a taxi or bus toward Sharjah. The total journey takes around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

4. What are the museum’s opening hours?
It’s open Saturday to Thursday from 8 AM to 8 PM, and on Friday from 4 PM to 8 PM.

5. How much does it cost to visit Al Mahatta Museum?
Entry fees are AED 10 for adults and AED 5 for children aged 2–12. Kids under 2 enter free.

6. How long does it take to tour the museum?
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours exploring all sections comfortably.

7. Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours may be arranged for groups or during special programs. Check with the information desk upon arrival.

8. Is Al Mahatta Museum suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The museum offers interactive exhibits and educational experiences ideal for children.

9. Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash and tripods might be restricted in certain areas.

10. What other places can I visit near Al Mahatta Museum?
Nearby attractions include the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Art Museum, Central Souk, and the Corniche.

Conclusion

Visiting Al Mahatta Museum is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to when aviation first arrived in the UAE. From the roar of early propeller engines to the evolution of modern flight, the museum beautifully captures the spirit of innovation and exploration that defines the nation today.

For travelers and history enthusiasts alike, this destination is not just about planes — it’s about people, ambition, and the Emirati legacy of looking to the skies with wonder.

So, if you’re planning your next cultural trip in Sharjah, make sure Al Mahatta Museum tops your list. Let UAE Explorer be your trusted guide as you uncover the stories that helped shape the UAE’s remarkable journey from desert sands to soaring skies.