Al Layyah Canal: Sharjah’s Stunning New Waterfront

It was in my updated list of go-to places in Sharjah and finally decided to check out Sharjah’s new addition – the Al Layyah Canal. Opened in March 2025, it’s a relatively short canal, about 600 metres long, linking Khalid Lagoon to the Arabian Gulf. I had seen some news about it and thought it would be interesting to see in person.

First Impressions

The area feels quite fresh and open. There’s a decent amount of space to walk, with new bridges crossing the canal that allow cars and pedestrians to move easily between both sides. The pedestrian paths are wide and clean, and because it’s new, everything still looks very neat.

It’s not particularly busy yet, which I personally liked — you can take a quiet walk without feeling crowded. The canal adds a nice touch of water movement to the landscape, and you can tell it's been built with the idea of improving water circulation and connecting more parts of the city to the sea.

A Little Background

The Al Layyah Canal is part of Sharjah’s broader plan to improve its waterfront areas. Along with being a new public space, it also has environmental goals — like supporting marine life through coral reef cultivation projects nearby. It’s clear the project isn’t just about looks; there’s an effort to balance development and nature.

The canal walls are built in a way to handle sea level changes, with layered rock barriers that also give it a slightly rugged coastal feel in some areas.

What You’ll Find

• Walkways: Good for an easy stroll, cycling, or jogging.

• Bridges: Two major bridges cross over, with pedestrian paths on each side.

• Atmosphere: Calm, especially in the early morning or around sunset.

• Events: Occasionally, there are pop-up markets and small events, like the Ramadan Market that was held here recently.

At the moment, there aren’t many cafés or restaurants lining the canal itself, but I can imagine that might change in the future.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Sharjah or live nearby, the Al Layyah Canal is worth a short visit — especially if you enjoy quiet, open spaces by the water. It’s not a major tourist attraction (yet), but it's a pleasant place for a walk, some fresh air, or just to see a newer side of the city developing.

I wouldn’t make a special trip only for the canal if you're coming from far away, but if you’re already in Sharjah or exploring places like Khalid Lagoon or the Corniche, it’s an easy spot to add to your afternoon.

Visiting Tip:
Go around sunset if you can — the light on the water makes the whole area feel a lot more lively.