BYB,
Are you sure about that? In 2000, we couldn't get a drink in hotels in Sharjah, or at Khor Fakkhan(?) which is within the Emirate. Also advised not to carry booze in car whilst driving through Sharjah. Told that if you are in an accident, they will throw the book at you. Not aware of anyone "done" due to random police stop.
The reason why Sharjah went dry, is that they ran out of money whilst completing their magnificent Islamic Museum and library, up by the Central or "Blue" Souk. They went "cap in hand" to the Saudis, who offered to assist if they applied Shariah rule strictly, hence no alcohol. Agreement reached, mosque finished, and Sharjah "dry". This was about the time of the coup in Sharjah when Sheikh Sultan was "otherthrown" by his brother, due to admitted financial mismanagement, but late reinstated by order of the Supreme council. Pretty bloodless, troops out on most roundabouts, waving at the passing motorists!