Want to experience a slice of heritage & culture in the traditional quarters of Dubai? Then you must head for the Al Shindagha area. Located in the Bur Dubai area, this place used to be the residential quarters of the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, from 1912 to 1958. Thereafter, it went through some renovations and reconstructions and is now open to the public as a museum.
History of Al Shindagha Museum
Part of the old quarters of Dubai, the Al Shindagha district in itself is like living history. And you would be transported to the bygone days when Dubai was yet to become the megalopolis that it is today. This 100+ years-old neighborhood used to be where the royal quarters were. Extensive, yet simple, quarters used to be their residence till around six decades ago. It was also a bustling district where people were engaged in traditional Emirati livelihood and lived in the typical Arab spirit of brotherhood and enjoyment.
Things to See
There are various pavilions in this museum, each showcasing an aspect of traditional Emirati culture and lifestyle and the way it has evolved down the years. Some of these pavilions are:
1. Welcome Center
This is where your journey will start. You would be cordially greeted by the members of staff in the traditional manner. You would be delighted by the experience of the famed Emirati hospitality as you receive an orientation and guidance regarding the museum, how to experience it in totality, and information about any current or upcoming events. The ticketing system is also hassle-free.
2. Living Off the Sea and Land
Life in the old Dubai was never easy. It was a constant struggle with harsh natural elements. But at the same time, nature provided Dubai with its growth and sustenance. Experience the traditional Emirati occupations of pearl diving, dhow building, and other aspects of marine life that has thrived off the Dubai coasts for thousands of years.
Also get to know more about the navigation skills of the traditional Emiratis across the deserts, the golden beaches, the rocky terrains – all in 4D. You would also know about the challenges faced by the Emirati desert dwellers and how they lived through it. And finally, know – and taste – traditional Emirati food and how it has been cooked over the years.
3. Governance and Well-being
The Al Maktoum family, rulers of Dubai, has helmed the country from a small fishing community to a globalized metropolis. Their pioneering leadership, visionary policies, and master strategies have made Dubai reach a leading position in global trade and lifestyle. Know about their riveting life, the important events that they went through, and other fascinating historical details.
And this pavilion also exposes you to the evolution of the Dubai Creek – the place from where Dubai began to take shape as a global nation. This is the place where the bustling markets of old Dubai used to function – and they still do. Through a state-of-the-art multimedia experience, take a journey and witness the fascinating growth and development of this area.
Also not to be missed are the Children’s Pavilion and the section on Education and Public Programming where various other aspects of Emirati heritage and governance can be witnessed.
How to reach Al Shindagha Museum
The nearest metro station is Al Ghubaiba on the Green Line. The museum is just a few minutes’ walk from there. Alternatively, you can cab it to the museum from anywhere in Dubai.
What are the Fees for Entry to the Al Shindagha Museum?
Booked online, the fee is AED 35.
FAQs on Al Shindagha Museum
- Is advance booking necessary to visit the museum?
While it’s not mandatory, it is certainly better to book tickets in advance as the museum is a quite popular tourist destination. Visit the museum’s website and book tickets online.
- Where is the museum located?
Its location is in Bur Dubai, by the historic Dubai Creek.
- What are the museum operating hours?
The museum remains open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Last entry is at 7:00 PM.
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