Dubai is world-famous for some of the best architecture in the world and for holding a number of world records in this field. From the Palm Jumeriah to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai’s unique design and architecture have made this city a tourist favourite over the past few decades. The city also wants to keep intact its rich history and heritage through its museums. Here is a list of the best museums in Dubai that honours the city’s past :
Learn about the rich history in Dubai’s best museums
Even if you’re not a history buff and would like to understand how Dubai came to be created and became the city that it is today then find below the list of the top museums you can not miss out on during your Dubai trip:
1. Dubai Museum
Best for travellers who would like to understand how Dubai transitioned from a historic to the modern city that it is today. It is located at Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai, which is close to Dubai Creek, a traditional area in the city. The Al Fahidi Fort in which this museum is located was made in 1787. The history of the city is portrayed with models of people, animals and places describing the story. You will get an insight into the history of the city with some astonishing artefacts as well.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Where: Dubai – United Arab Emirates
2. Etihad Museum
The newest and most impressive Dubai museum that tells the story of the United Arab Emirates. Positioned at 1 Jumeirah Street, this is a spot where the country formed back in 1971, teaching people about the time period when seven emirates came together to form the UAE that it is today. For history lovers, this interactive and informative experience becomes a lifelong memory.
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
Where: 1 Jumeirah St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
3. Hatta Heritage Village
Established in Hatta which is on the outskirts of Dubai, Hatta Heritage Village has a strong history of 2000-3000 years. It was renewed and initiated for the tourists back in 2001. The tourists get an impression of the mountainous area of Hatta and the ancient village that existed ages ago. There are some original buildings, two castles and a fort which the tourists can explore. These buildings have original tools, furniture and weapons along with some model compositions to illustrate the story.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Where: Hatta Area – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
4. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Located in Al Shindagha, the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House was constructed in 1896 and holds most importance in the history of Dubai. Al Maktoum family which is the ruling family of Dubai lived in this house until 1958. The late Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum was the last ruler to reside in this place. After the family moved to a new home, this house was converted into a museum. It has amazing historic photos of the royal family, a collection of jewellery, coins, and stamps etc. If you are curious about learning how the life of the royal family changed in the last century, this museum will serve your interest.
Timings: 8 AM – 8:30 PM
Where: Dubai – United Arab Emirates
5. Al Bastakiya
Situated in Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai, Al Bastakiya gives immense information about this historic neighbourhood of Dubai. It showcases the life of the people that existed before the skyscrapers came into existence in the city. If you are an art enthusiast, The Majlis Gallery in this museum will be a wondrous experience for you.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Where: Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
6. Coffee Museum
Placed at Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Al Bastakiya, the Coffee Museum is one of its kind that educates tourists about the local and foreign history of coffee with the help of antique objects. It is located in historic buildings and provides the tourist with a chance to breathe in traditional Dubai. The tasting sessions in the museum is a must-do for coffee lovers.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Where: Villa 44, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bastakiya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
7. Museum of the Future
The Dubai museum is brand new and opened up in 2019 and it shows how technology will evolve in the next two decades. It was established by the Dubai Future Foundation. It will also assist in understanding the potential climate change for 2050. The museum will also conduct workshops, talks and special courses utilising the present technology. It is set to become the world’s biggest museum with exciting possibilities and trends.
Timings: Yet to be announced
Where: Trade Centre 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
8. Pearl Museum
As of today, the economy of the UAE region majorly depends on oil. However, in the past, it was popular for pearls. It has a history of fabricating some of the most exquisite pearls in the world’s history. A portion of these natural wonders is now on display in the Pearl Museum. This Dubai museum also exhibits the life of the divers and the equipment used by them to retrieve these pearls. You have to plan the visit with Emirates NBD before visiting and they favour small groups of 8-10 people at a time.
Where: 10 Beniyas Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
9. Camel Museum
UAE is known for its fondness for camels. This Dubai museum was constructed to show the rich history of the unique human-animal bond in this region. The museum which was once managed by Sheiks in the past has amazing pictures from that time. It is a good example of a museum where technology, history and heritage fuse together in one place. You can experience live camel races events next time you visit.
Where: Al Shandagha Historical District – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
10. Dubai Moving Image Museum
If you are scanning for a visual feast that showcases the history of modern-day theatre, this Dubai museum will be a pleasure for you. It is located off Sheikh Zayed Road and it showcases the moving image devices as ancient as the 1730s which pertain to the collection of Akram Mikna. It has a combination of shadow play, peep boxes, magic lanterns, modern animation, and cinematography.
Timings: 11AM – 6PM
Where: MCN Hive, 1st Floor, TECOM – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Dubai is all set to want to educate its tourists about the rich heritage and history it has to offer and is often overlooked while visiting the region. The museums serve this purpose well. Book your Dubai trip this 2020 with PickYourTrail for an ultimate Dubai vacation.