Dubai Heritage Village or also referred to as Al Shindagha Heritage Village, is one of the most interesting and educational places in Dubai. Located by the Dubai Creek in the old Al Shindagha area, this small museum is an open-air museum that preserves the Emirati lifestyle before the oil boom. Its rustic wind-tower houses, spicy-scented streets, and local craftsmen creating their pottery and textile work will provide a true picture of the UAE in its past.

The Dubai Heritage Village offers a glimpse into the history, culture and craftsmanship that have created the Emirates. It is among the few locations where you can observe live performances of the ancient Emirati art crafts, take a look at the Bedouin tents, and even taste the Arabic coffee and savour the creek breeze.

About Dubai Heritage Village (Al Shindagha Heritage Village)

The Dubai Heritage Village was created by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority in 1997. The village is a reconstruction of a traditional Emirati village that demonstrates the traditional Emirati way of life before the exploration of oil.

Here, tourists can learn about traditional medicine, pearl diving and maritime trade, as well as look into workshops where local craftsmen showcase their skills that have been developed over the years.

Dubai Heritage Village Highlights

Authentic Architecture: Explore reconstructed Emirati homes, mosques and souks.
Traditional Crafts: Watch artisans weaving, pottery-making, and blacksmithing.
Cultural Performances: Live folk music, dances, and storytelling sessions on weekends.
Maritime Museum: Learn about Dubai’s historic trade routes and pearl diving culture.
Local Cuisine: Sample Emirati snacks and Arabic coffee in traditional cafés.
Stunning Views: Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, offering scenic photo spots.

Dubai Heritage Village Entry Fees, Timings and Nearby Attractions

Location: Al Shindagha Historical District, Bur Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Operating Hours (2026):

Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours

Nearby Attractions to Visit Around Dubai Heritage Village

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – Explore Dubai’s oldest residential area.
Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Fort) – Discover ancient artefacts and historical exhibits.
Dubai Creek – Take an abra ride to Deira for a traditional market experience.
Textile Souk & Spice Souk – Buy authentic fabrics and aromatic spices.

Top Things to Do at Dubai Heritage Village

1. Explore Traditional Architecture

Stroll along the airy barasti houses, wind towers and mud houses that demonstrate the perfect practices of Emirati building.

2. Watch Local Craftsmen at Work

Watch craftsmen work at traditional weaving, pottery and metalwork. This offers a rare experience to explore the art in Dubai.

3. Visit the Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum gives you insights into how the early economy of Dubai used to depend on pearl diving and sea trading. The displays include ancient instruments and old photographs.

4. Attend Cultural Performances

The village is very lively with folk dances and live music, which makes the village culturally very rich.

Enjoy Local Food and Souvenirs

Savour classic Emirati Luqaimat (sweet dumplings), Arabic coffee and other Emirati delicacies in local cafes.

Best Time to Visit Dubai Heritage Village

Best Season: November to March (pleasant weather for walking outdoors)
Best Time of Day: Early morning or late evening to avoid heat.
Best Days: Weekdays for fewer crowds; weekends for cultural shows.

Travel Tip: Visit at sunset to capture beautiful photos of Dubai Creek and the glowing skyline in contrast to the traditional setting.

How to Reach Dubai Heritage Village

From Downtown Dubai:

By Car/Taxi: It takes around 20 minutes via Sheikh Zayed Road.
By Metro: Take the Green Line to Al Ghubaiba Station and then walk for 10 minutes.

From Dubai International Airport:

By Car: Car travel takes about 15 minutes from the airport.

From Deira:

By Abra (Water Taxi): Cross the Creek for a traditional and scenic experience.

Parking: Free parking is available near the entrance.

Insider Tips for Visiting Dubai Heritage Village

Dress modestly and respectfully, as it is a cultural heritage site.
Photography is allowed, but ask before clicking photos of people.
Visit during festivals (like the UAE National Day) for live events.
Bring cash for small souvenir purchases and snacks.
Don’t miss the Cultural Heritage Centre for free exhibitions.

Dubai Heritage Village Restaurants and Shopping Options

Dining Options:

Arabian Tea House (Al Fahidi): Authentic Emirati dining in a heritage courtyard.
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant: Traditional dishes served in a rustic ambience.
Local Cafes at the Village: Serve Arabic coffee and local desserts.

Shopping:

Textile Souk: Buy handwoven fabrics and scarves.
Spice Souk: Perfect for aromatic spices and herbs.
Gold Souk (Deira): A short abra ride away for traditional gold jewellery

Suggested Itinerary for Dubai Heritage Village

Morning:

Start at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
Walk to Dubai Heritage Village and explore the museums.

Afternoon:

Lunch at Arabian Tea House or nearby restaurants.
Take an abra ride across the Creek to Deira Souks.

Evening:

Return for sunset views and evening cultural performances.

Why Visit Dubai Heritage Village

Experience the authentic Emirati lifestyle from the past.
Perfect for history buffs, families and photographers.
Free entry and convenient location near major attractions.
Offers cultural shows, workshops, and traditional art forms.
A must-visit for anyone wanting to understand Dubai’s transformation from a small fishing town to a modern metropolis.

Conclusion: Step Into Dubai’s Living History

The Dubai Heritage Village is the living history of the UAE. It offers visitors a captivating journey to Dubai’s golden past through its reconstructed traditional Emirati buildings, immersive exhibits and vibrant marketplace. The village serves as an educational and cultural hub that preserves and promotes Emirati customs, history and lifestyle. Whether you are a history buff or a cultural enthusiast, the Dubai Heritage Village is a must-visit destination on your itinerary. Plan your visit to this historic destination with Pickyourtrail’s Dubai Tour Packages and get access to the best deals.

1. What is Dubai Heritage Village?

Dubai Heritage Village is an open-air museum where one can find the life of traditional Emirati, crafts, and culture of the Emirati before the modernisation of Dubai.

2. Where is Dubai Heritage Village located?

It is found in Al Shindagha Historical District, which is close to the Dubai Creek in Bur Dubai.

3. Is there an entry fee?

No, any visitor is welcome.

4. What are the opening hours?

It is open all weekdays 8:00 AM 10:000 PM and weekends 8:00 AM -11- 00 PM.

5. What can you do at Dubai Heritage Village?

You may visit old houses, museums, craft development workshops, and live performances of the cultural life.

6. How do you get to Dubai Heritage Village?

Ride the metro to the Al Ghubaiba Station or ride the abra to cross Dubai Creek at Deira.

7. When is the best time to visit?

Visiting is possible between November and March (cool weather and cultural events in the evening).

8. Is Dubai Heritage Village family-friendly?

Yeah, it is a family-friendly place with learning exhibits for children.

9. Are there food and drinks within the Dubai Heritage Village?

Yes, there are small cafes and restaurants where people can get authentic Emirati snacks and beverages.

10. Is photography allowed in the Dubai Heritage Village?

Yes, photography is permitted in most places; however, it is only polite to seek permission before capturing photos of locals.

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