How to Visit The Flying Saucer in Sharjah
The short answer: The Flying Saucer is a restored 1970s architectural landmark and contemporary cultural space in Dasman, Sharjah. Managed by Sharjah Art Foundation, it combines striking futuristic architecture with exhibitions, an art library, creative workshops and community spaces. It is an excellent stop for visitors interested in architecture, photography and the UAE’s cultural heritage.
What makes The Flying Saucer special?
The Flying Saucer is unlike a conventional museum or shopping attraction. Originally opened in 1978, the building became famous for its unusual circular design, which resembles a spacecraft hovering above the ground.
Its architecture combines Brutalist construction with futuristic design. A broad concrete dome appears to float above eight supporting columns, while a star-shaped canopy extends beyond the glass facade. Angled V-shaped pillars create an especially distinctive silhouette.
The building has also played an important role in Sharjah’s everyday history. Before becoming an arts destination, it accommodated restaurants, supermarkets, a pharmacy and other businesses.
Sharjah Art Foundation acquired the property in 2012 and began using it for exhibitions in 2015. Following extensive restoration, it reopened on 26 September 2020.
Rather than replacing the historic building with something entirely new, the restoration preserved its recognisable exterior while introducing modern cultural facilities beneath it.
For architecture enthusiasts, this combination of preservation and contemporary reuse is the main reason to visit.
What can you see inside?
The Flying Saucer offers more than an unusual exterior. Its spaces support exhibitions, learning activities, reading and informal gatherings.
- Main exhibition hall: The circular interior provides a distinctive setting for contemporary installations and artistic projects.
- Public art library: Visitors can explore publications about artists, exhibitions, architecture and cultural history. The collection includes Arabic and English materials.
- Launch Pad: This underground community space accommodates reading, workshops, screenings and other activities.
- Green Crater: A sunken courtyard introduces vegetation and natural light into the lower level.
- Café: A social space complements the library and creative facilities.
- Outdoor areas: Exterior gathering spaces support installations, performances and community activities.
One useful distinction is that the exhibition hall and community facilities serve different purposes. An exhibition installation does not have to be running for the building’s architecture and public cultural spaces to remain interesting.
Visitors who enjoy slower cultural experiences should spend time in the library rather than treating the building as a quick photography stop.
What are the current visitor details?
The Flying Saucer remains listed as a year-round cultural venue in October 2026. It is located in Dasman, at the junction of Sheikh Zayed Street, Al Wahda Street and Sheikh Humaid bin Saqr Al Qasimi Street.
The following comparison separates permanent building features from dated programmes and historical milestones.
| Feature | Verified detail | Applicable date |
|---|---|---|
| Original opening | 1978 | 1978 |
| Foundation acquisition | 2012 | 2012 |
| Restoration reopening | 26 September 2020 | 2020 |
| Supporting columns | 8 | October 2026 |
| Public art library | Available as a venue facility | October 2026 |
| Venue status | Open year-round | October 2026 |
| Architecture workshop | 16 to 18 October | 2026 |
| Theatre workshop | 17 October | 2026 |
The building is a cultural destination rather than a conventional ticketed attraction with one permanent exhibition. Its programme includes both general community use and scheduled creative activities.
For visitors comparing Sharjah’s cultural attractions, the Islamic civilization museum provides a more traditional museum experience, with collections focused on history, science, religion and artistic heritage.
How do you reach The Flying Saucer?
The Flying Saucer occupies a prominent position at a major road intersection in Dasman. Its distinctive dome makes it a recognisable landmark, although the surrounding road layout requires some planning.
- By car: Navigate directly to The Flying Saucer in Dasman, Sharjah, rather than searching for the former Flying Saucer Roundabout.
- By taxi: Give the driver the attraction’s name and Dasman location. This is a straightforward option for visitors unfamiliar with Sharjah’s roads.
- From Dubai: Plan the journey around road traffic, particularly during busy commuting periods between Dubai and Sharjah.
- On arrival: Approach through the designated pedestrian access rather than attempting to cross the surrounding major roads directly.
The old roundabout associated with the landmark no longer exists in its original form. That distinction matters because historical descriptions sometimes refer to the former traffic layout.
For photography, begin with the exterior. The building’s most recognisable features are its dome, projecting canopy and angled structural supports. Photographing from different viewpoints helps reveal how the circular roof relates to the surrounding streets.
What has changed in 2026?
The most significant recent development is The Flying Saucer’s continued role as both an active cultural venue and a symbol of architectural preservation.
In September 2026, the building hosted the first meeting of Sharjah’s committee responsible for implementing the national policy on preserving modern architectural heritage. This reinforces the landmark’s importance beyond its exhibition programme.
The October 2026 cultural calendar also demonstrates its continuing educational role.
- 16 to 18 October 2026: Thinking through Architecture, a learning programme hosted at The Flying Saucer.
- 17 October 2026: Starting Points for Theatrical Ideas with Nathan Ellis, another creative learning activity at the venue.
Both programmes are listed as free learning activities. They show that The Flying Saucer functions as a working cultural centre rather than simply a preserved historic building.
For visitors in October 2026, the practical implication is clear: the experience can include architecture, reading and participation in creative education, not just sightseeing.
The restoration completed in 2020 also remains central to today’s visitor experience. By placing additional facilities underground, the project preserved the original dome’s visual impact while providing space for contemporary public use.
How should you plan your visit?
The best approach depends on whether your main interest is architecture, contemporary art or a relaxed cultural outing.
For architecture enthusiasts: Allow approximately 45 to 60 minutes as a suggested personal itinerary. Begin outside, examine the dome and supporting columns, then explore how the modern underground spaces connect with the historic structure.
For art lovers: Allow around 60 to 90 minutes when combining the building with an exhibition or library visit. Scheduled workshops and screenings deserve additional time.
For families: Focus on the unusual architecture, courtyard and accessible cultural spaces. The venue is better suited to curious children who enjoy art and design than those expecting amusement rides or interactive playground equipment.
For photographers: Prioritise the exterior’s geometric composition and the contrast between concrete, glass and natural light. The Green Crater offers a different visual character from the building’s futuristic exterior.
Three practical mistakes are worth avoiding:
- Expecting a UFO-themed attraction with spacecraft exhibits. The name describes the building’s appearance, not its exhibition subject.
- Assuming the exhibition hall and underground library are the same space. They offer different experiences.
- Planning only a roadside photograph and missing the cultural facilities beneath the restored structure.
The Flying Saucer is particularly rewarding for visitors interested in how Sharjah protects and reuses its modern architectural heritage. It offers a different experience from the emirate’s larger museums, combining an iconic building with an active creative community.
Frequently asked questions
Is The Flying Saucer in Sharjah a real UFO?
No. The Flying Saucer is a historic building that opened in 1978 and earned its name from its spacecraft-like architecture. Today, it operates as a contemporary art and community venue.
Can you visit The Flying Saucer without attending an exhibition?
Yes. The venue includes community facilities such as a public art library, café and gathering spaces alongside its exhibition hall. Its distinctive architecture is also an attraction in its own right.
Is The Flying Saucer suitable for children?
Yes, particularly for children interested in unusual buildings, art and creative learning. Families should approach it as a cultural experience rather than an indoor entertainment centre.
