All You Need to Know About Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum

Dubai is one of the most flamboyant cities in the world and is a buzzing tourist hotspot as it has so many wonderful experiences to offer. This magnificent city has evolved exponentially since the oil revolution and all the luxurious hotels and skyscrapers speak for themselves. Ever wondered what Dubai was like before the oil period? Head out to the popular home of the former ruler Sheik Saeed Al Maktoum to get immersed in the glory of Dubai’s history.

History of the house

Located at the Dubai creek region of Al Shindagha, this is where Sheik Saeed Al Maktoum, the grandfather of the current ruler and his family lived. This majestic residential complex was built back in 1896 and housed the Maktoum family from 1912-1958. This was their childhood home and this is where Sheik Saeed lived while he turned Dubai into one of the most spectacular cities. The architecture and style of the building will take you right back to the period of his reign and the house which is now turned into a museum has many insights to offer on Dubai’s history.

What you can find here

Although it no longer serves as the ruler’s residency, this house has been turned into a museum with a collection of exhibitions that showcase the royal 20th-century style of architecture including the Barajeel, the 4 famous air towers. There are 9 exhibitions and an array of open and closed wings that are beautifully connected.

Sheik Saeed had a passionate collection of artifacts which along with memorable photographs during his reign are showcased in these exhibitions. You can also find artifacts such as coins, stamps, and jewelry that belonged to the Royal family.

List of the 9 exhibits at the Museum:

1. History of Saeed Al Maktoum house
2. The Al Maktoum Family
3. Historic documents and maps
4. Old Dubai
5. Views from Dubai
6. Social life in Dubai
7. Marine Life
8. Coins
9. Stamps

Also Read: Top 15 free things to do in Dubai

Architecture of the Maktoum house

This massive Palace is proclaimed for its elegant yet simple design. It vividly showcases how the ruler lived amongst the crowds as there are no huge walls or forts that seclude the palace from the rest of the city. It’s warm and inviting which makes it even more charming.

The design of his house tells you all about the philosophy of the ruler and his approach towards life. It also has a few religious elements that give an insight into his auspicious nature. The house faces Mecca as every other house in the city and spreads over a vast expanse although it doesn’t look like it from the outside. One of the first rooms you’ll find as soon as you enter is the guest room on the right-hand side which is considered to be auspicious in the Islamic region. The kitchen is tucked away at the end of the house to ensure ventilation. The way each wing is connected to another truly reflects the traditional architectural design of Dubai.

The walls have a rosy tint as they were built with coral treated with lime and plaster. The hue perfectly blends with the rich teak wood doors and furniture giving it a very simple yet Royal feel. This is a beautiful thing to witness especially at dusk as the pink reflects off the walls with the rays glistening at perfect angles.

Basic information to know before you visit the Maktoum house

1. Timings

Visiting hours are from 3 pm to 8:30 pm on Fridays and 8 am to 8:30 pm on the rest of the days of the week.

2. Entrance fee

Tickets to the museum cost INR 60 for adults and INR 20 for children who are below 13 years of age.

A visit to the Maktoum house will unveil the simplicity of the pre-oil boom while you get to experience the most fascinating architectural designs of that period. The Maktoum house might not be the tallest or grandest of buildings in Dubai but this visit is nothing like any other building you are going to see in Dubai and you will not be disappointed one bit. 

A clean balance between enjoying the glam of Dubai while also learning about its history could make this a perfect vacation. Do check out the carefully curated Dubai travel packages listed on our website, pick your favorite and get packing for your trip because Pickyoutrail takes care of everything else!

Also Read: Shopping In Dubai | Global Village in Dubai