Hilton Sharjah

Though its own emirate, Sharjah is effectively a suburb of Dubai. Leisure travelers seeking to be near the iconic city's glitz increasingly choose Sharjah as a more affordable, but still upscale alternative. Overlooking Khalid Lagoon and distant skyscrapers, the Hilton's 18 glass-fronted stories make a solid first impression., while interiors range from swish to dated. Gold-flanked pillars in the marbled lobby are showing their age, but a sweeping white staircase under a magnificent chandelier here is striking. Classically elegant, if a bit generic, seating lines the bottom two floors. 

Although lacking a wow factor, the hotel does have lovely views of Khalid Lagoon from the main pool and front-facing rooms. Quality amenities include leisure and business facilities, and guests range from international families and couples to corporate travelers. though most remains high. Note that while there are three lounges, as well as two restaurants, spread around the property, no alcohol is served here. 

The hotel occupies a great spot on Sharjah's happening Corniche, which encircles Khalid Lagoon. Despite being dominated by high-rises, manageable roads here have an advantage over the often bewildering Dubai boulevards, which is a 20- to 80-minute drive away depending on traffic. Sharjah's offerings aren't right outside, but walks of up to 15 minutes lead to vibrant restaurants and cafes. Al Qasba's outlets and the Eye of the Emirates are a 22-minute walk (or quicker drive). The more-historic Heritage Area is an eight-minute drive. Free shuttles to Dubai Deira City Centre Mall conveniently drop guests by its metro, and shuttles also run to Sharjah Carlton Hotel's private beach. Sharjah's Expo Center is a seven-minute drive. Sharjah and Dubai International Airports are both within a 25-minute drive (without traffic).

Although well-kept, the classically elegant rooms feel generic and underwhelming overall, with dated wooden furniture, neutral-tone linens, and patterned carpet, alongside chain-like artwork. Fortunately, they're spacious, with lower-category rooms starting at 355 square feet (33 square meters). Although rooms lack outdoor spaces, it's worth the upgrade for guaranteed Khalid Lagoon views, which are stunning from floor-to-ceiling windows. Note, prayer calls are audible from city-view rooms, which are by a mosque. Bathrooms have marble counters and small square tiling, plus shower/tub combos, old hose-style hairdryers, and quality Peter Thomas Roth toiletries. Seating areas and desks come standard, as do satellite flat-screen TVs, minibars with soft drinks, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. Unfortunately, safes are on the small side and in-room Wi-Fi requires a fee (except for Hilton Honors members). 

Starting at 678 square feet (63 square meters), suites up the ante with similarly bland furnishings, but living rooms with chandeliers in some and palatial marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and separate showers. Some add stand-alone jetted tubs. Higher-floor executive-level rooms, alongside suites, get access to a lounge and they guarantee lagoon views. 

The hotel is divided by pools in the front and back. While the latter offers shade, the sun-drenched front pool offers gorgeous lagoon views, though both are fairly small. Umbrellas, loungers, and charcoal-wicker dining furniture surround pools, and one kiddy pool is available. Additional wellness facilities include a spa with massage treatment rooms, a sauna, and steam room. The 24-hour fitness center is small but equipped with modern machines and free weights, and a squash court is on-site. 

Mojo's international buffet spreads are served for all three meals, and the room's black floors get pops of color from blue mosaic chair cushions and aqua placemats. Shiraz serves Iranian fare for lunch and dinner in a space with sheer drapes and warm-hued floor motifs that are aptly Persia. Both Al Dallah and Citrus lobby lounges are open all day, offering mezze platters and pastries, plus aromatic teas, coffees, virgin cocktails, and soft drinks. 

Free Deira Dubai Mall shuttles are more popular than the beach ones, although the latter accompany beach club access at the Sharjah Carlton Hotel. Three meeting rooms, a business center, and ballroom cater to corporate travelers. On-site valet parking is free, as is Wi-Fi in common areas.