Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) Overview

Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) serves as a major gateway to the United Arab Emirates, located approximately 13 kilometers east of Sharjah city center. Established in 1977, the airport has grown into one of the region’s leading hubs for both passenger and cargo traffic. SHJ is renowned for its efficient operations, modern facilities, and a strategic location close to Dubai, making it a preferred choice for travelers and airlines alike. The airport features a single, large terminal complex that handles both arrivals and departures seamlessly.

Sharjah International Airport is particularly popular among low-cost carriers and is a central hub for Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa. The airport is also recognized for its commitment to passenger comfort, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and relaxation options. Its proximity to key urban centers and tourist destinations enhances its accessibility and appeal. With continuous upgrades and expansion plans, SHJ aims to further cement its role as a vital aviation hub in the region.

Air Traffic Ranking

• Europe Ranking: Not ranked, as Sharjah International Airport is located in the United Arab Emirates.
• Worldwide Ranking: Among the top 100 airports globally by passenger numbers, particularly notable for its cargo operations and as a major hub in the Middle East.

Top Airlines Operating at Sharjah International Airport

• Air Arabia
• flydubai
• Air India Express
• Oman Air
• Air Arabia Abu Dhabi

Local Time Zone

The local time zone at Sharjah International Airport is Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC +4.

Distance from Airport to City Center

Sharjah International Airport is situated approximately 13 km (8 miles) from Sharjah city center and about 20 km (12 miles) from downtown Dubai.

Nearby Areas and Closest City Centers

• Sharjah city center – 13 km
• Dubai city center – 20 km
• Ajman city center – 20 km
• Al Nahda (Dubai/Sharjah border) – 10 km

Transportation Methods from the Airport to the City Center

• Taxi: 24/7 taxi services are available directly outside the terminal, offering convenient transfers to Sharjah, Dubai, and other emirates.
• Bus: Public buses connect the airport with Sharjah city center, Rolla Square, and various districts, operating at regular intervals.
• Car Rental: Several international and local car rental companies operate at the airport terminal.
• Private Transfers: Pre-booked private cars and limousine services are available for comfortable and direct travel.

Terminal Information

Sharjah International Airport features a single passenger terminal that handles all international and domestic flights. The terminal is divided into dedicated areas for departures, arrivals, and transit passengers. Air Arabia operates the majority of flights from SHJ, alongside other airlines such as Air India Express, flydubai, and Air Arabia Abu Dhabi. The terminal offers extensive facilities, including lounges, duty-free shops, restaurants, and business services.

Official Airport Website

For the latest information on flights, services, and facilities, visit the official website: sharjahairport.ae

Air Passenger Rights at Sharjah International Airport

If your flight from Sharjah International Airport is delayed or cancelled, your right to compensation depends on the airline and the origin or destination of your flight. For flights operated by EU-based airlines from Sharjah to the EU, or for any flight departing from an EU airport to Sharjah, you may be protected under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU 261 or EC 261). This regulation entitles passengers to compensation if their flight is delayed by more than 3 hours, cancelled without adequate notice, or if they are denied boarding due to overbooking.

To qualify for compensation under EU 261, your flight must either depart from an EU member country (regardless of the airline), or arrive in the EU on an EU-based airline. Compensation amounts are determined by the distance of your flight:

• For flights up to 1,500 km: €250 per passenger
• For flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: €400 per passenger
• For flights over 3,500 km: €600 per passenger

If your flight from Sharjah International Airport to the EU with airlines such as Air Arabia or flydubai was delayed or cancelled, you may be eligible for compensation under EU 261 if the airline is EU-based or the flight departed from the EU. Be sure to keep all travel documents, including your boarding pass and booking confirmation, and document all communications with the airline in case you need to file a claim.

How Voos Can Assist with Your Compensation Claim

If your flight from Sharjah International Airport was delayed or cancelled, Voos can help you review your claim and, if eligible, pursue compensation from the airline on your behalf. Our service is risk-free – you only pay a fee if your claim is successful. Depending on your case, you could be entitled to up to €600 per person in compensation for delayed or cancelled flights under EU 261.

• Gather your flight number and booking details
• Keep your boarding pass or e-ticket as evidence
• Document all communications with the airline
• Check your eligibility for compensation today with Voos

Protect your air passenger rights and claim the compensation you deserve for flight delays and cancellations at Sharjah International Airport.