Jinni Al Mureijah
Jinni Al Mureijah is a distinctive mythical figure in Emirati folk heritage associated entirely with the Al Mureijah neighbourhood of old Sharjah. Unlike most traditional jinn, it usually appears during the daytime and is known for frightening strangers while leaving local residents unharmed. It takes the form of a small human figure with a thick red head, cat-like eyes and hair falling against the normal direction in which it would be combed. It always appears naked, and half of its body may remain hidden in the ground, adding an element of surprise and strangeness to its frightening appearance.
Historically, the figure represents the social memory of a particular place and reflects the strong connection of Sharjah residents with the neighbourhood and their use of supernatural stories as a means of protection and social discipline. Such stories were passed down between generations and were used by children and adults both for entertainment and to learn from the experiences of others, reflecting a culture of caution and awareness of the unknown. Tangibly, the jinn is associated with old alleys and houses and appears in specific places, while the stories also mention tools of magic and rituals used to recover its victims or frighten it away.