Flying Saucer
A retro-futuristic saucer-shaped building in Sharjah, serving as an art space, library, and community hub.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful for work & study
Flying Saucer
Best Time
Peaceful for work & study
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A retro-futuristic saucer-shaped building in Sharjah, serving as an art space, library, and community hub.
"The facade is deceptive; inside lies a unique space for art, study, and community events."
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Visit their social media for upcoming workshops & exhibitions to maximize your experience.
🤫 Seek the Lower Level
For quiet work or study, head downstairs; it's a peaceful haven.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Architectural Design
A striking, retro-futuristic saucer shape that's a visual marvel and a conversation starter.
Community Art Space
Discover rotating art exhibitions and engaging workshops, from weaving to potential future events.
Quiet Study & Work Zone
A surprisingly peaceful lower level with a library, perfect for focused work or quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unexpected Architecture
Timing is Key for Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Visit their social media for upcoming workshops & exhibitions to maximize your experience.
🤫 Seek the Lower Level
For quiet work or study, head downstairs; it's a peaceful haven.
📸 Snap the Exterior
The unique saucer design is a must-photograph!
☕ Cafe Vibes
The cafe is great for a break, but check opening times as it's not always daily.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Visit their social media for upcoming workshops & exhibitions to maximize your experience.
🤫 Seek the Lower Level
For quiet work or study, head downstairs; it's a peaceful haven.
📸 Snap the Exterior
The unique saucer design is a must-photograph!
☕ Cafe Vibes
The cafe is great for a break, but check opening times as it's not always daily.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Flying Saucer is praised for its unique, eye-catching architecture and its role as a versatile community space, offering a peaceful library for work and study. However, some visitors note that it can become quite lively with music later in the day, deviating from a quieter ambiance.
"Good place to study , to discover, authentic place . I recommend for working meeting and studying specially there is cafe"
Omnia Nabih
"What started off as a serene hub for work and study, ending up becoming a music testing ground by 12pm. Speakers on full blast and the library/community centre turned disco was just not the kind of place visioned on the walls and heritage.
Pitiful…"
Mohammad Adam Khan
"The facade of the Flying Saucer is very deceptive!
My impression, when we first drove by in 2023, was that it was an elaborate air conditioned bus stop! I then corrected my notion the following time, explaining to DH (Dear Husband) who was at the wheel, that it wasn't a bus stop, but either a mini planetarium or an aquarium with exotic fish, or perhaps a place where theater and mime artists have regular performances. Oh how wrong i was! I realized when we visited with friends last year, what lay beneath the surface of the Flying Saucer than meets the eye!
We were there for an Ifthar event hosted by the Sharjah Art foundation. They had a weaving workshop followed by Ifthar fare. The place was bustling with activity. There not a single dazzling fish, nor mime artist in sight! 😄
I surprised to see the sprawling lower level... a number of people were engrossed in the books on display available to the public for free perusal.
What blew me away is the eclectic feel to the sprawling lower level and unique architecture beneath the surface of that street corner in Sharjah.
Bright and vibrant fabrics adorned one section of the library. The cafe was just opening up for the evening when we got there.
I hope to visit again when they have their art workshops. The weaving was not really my cup of tea!
I would be delighted to visit again if they have horticulture, baking or sewing workshops.
Perhaps some day it will be the venue for UAE's stand up comics, live band performances, dancers, youngster portraying their talents, caricaturists, mini plays by groups of various ages, story telling for kids, plus fun organized events with ice breaker games for people to meet up."
Cathy L.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Flying Saucer is located in Sharjah, UAE. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's accessible by car and often mentioned in conjunction with Sharjah Art Foundation events. Consider ride-sharing services for convenience.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but street parking or nearby public parking areas are likely options. It's advisable to arrive a little early to find a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Flying Saucer itself is generally free, allowing access to its unique architecture and library. However, specific workshops or events may require separate tickets or registration.
The opening hours can vary, especially for the cafe and specific events. It's best to check their official social media channels or the Sharjah Art Foundation's schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the lower level is described as a peaceful space ideal for studying and remote work, though it can become lively with music later in the day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Events range from art exhibitions and weaving workshops to Ifthar gatherings. Future events could include horticulture, baking, sewing, comedy, live music, and more.
Yes, there is a cafe downstairs, and the Fen restaurant is also located there, though it's open on occasions rather than daily.
The exterior is a striking, retro-futuristic saucer shape, while the interior boasts a unique and eclectic design, especially on the lower level.
The lower level features a library with books available for public perusal, making it a great spot for discovery and quiet reading.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The unique saucer design makes it a very photogenic location, both from the outside and for capturing the interior's eclectic vibe.
Experiment with different angles to capture the full saucer shape. Shots from across the street or slightly elevated viewpoints can be particularly effective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧑💻 Remote Workers & Students
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Art lovers will appreciate the rotating exhibitions and the potential for creative workshops, offering a chance to engage with local art and culture. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel
+1Beneath its eye-catching facade, the Flying Saucer reveals a surprisingly versatile interior. The lower level, in particular, is noted for its eclectic feel and unique design elements. It houses a library and is often used as a space for art exhibitions and community events. This blend of striking architecture and functional community space is what makes the Flying Saucer a memorable destination.
While the exterior might evoke images of science fiction and extraterrestrial visitors,
+2 the interior is grounded in art, culture, and community engagement. The contrast between its outer appearance and inner purpose adds to its charm and makes it a place that consistently surprises visitors. A Hub for Art and Community
Beyond formal exhibitions, the Flying Saucer fosters a sense of community through its library and the potential for diverse events. Discussions online suggest a desire for a wider range of activities, from stand-up comedy and live music to storytelling for children.
While some visitors have noted that the space can transform into a lively music testing ground by midday,
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit