The UAE’s currency is the dirham, which is divided into 100 fils. Different denominations of the dirham notes carry fine line drawings of notable UAE landmarks.
The dirham was put into circulation in 1973 two years after the UAE was formed, when it replaced both the Bahraini dinar (favoured by Abu Dhabi) and Qatari riyal (favoured by Dubai) which had been used since 1966. For many decades previously, the emirates had used the Gulf rupee, as well the golden pound or the silver Maria Theresa dollar.
DH5: Sharjah Central Market
The central Market of Sharjah, also know as the Islamic souq, is located between Khalid Lagoon and King Faisal Road and covers a wide area. It was built in 1978 and consists of two sections connected by tunnels. The exterior of the souq is built in the shape of a barjeel – an old system of letting cold air through. The souq houses 600 shops selling everything from goods, gifts and electronics to gold, gems and jewellery and carpets. It started out as an open market, but later on became air-conditioned. Parking space for around 400 vehicles was also provided.
