As a window into the city’s past, one of the most famous locations is the Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai. Situated along the banks of Dubai Creek, this museum is a live example of the rich legacy and culture of the area. For this reason, Al Shindagha Museum is a must-visit location for history buffs and curious tourists.
Let’s walk you through the rich history of the Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai and explore what it has to offer.
- Exhibits at Al Shindagha Museum
- Facilities
- Ticket Price
- How to Get to Al Shindagha Museum
- Accessibility
- Restaurant Near Al Shindagha Museum
- FAQs
Exploring the Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai
This open-air historical museum is in the Al Shindagha neighbourhood, next to Dubai Creek. The neighbourhood has over 162 historic houses. The Al Shindagha Museum is divided into 22 pavilions spread across 80 houses. Each pavilion offers a comprehensive look at a distinct aspect of Dubai’s history and growth from a tiny fishing village to a busy metropolis.
Location
Al Shindagha, Dubai Creek, Dubai, UAE
Timings
10:00 AM – 08:00 PM (Daily)
Note: The last entry is until 07:00 PM.
Contact
80033 222
Exhibits at Al Shindagha Museum
The Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai consists of several pavilions, each providing an in-depth look at different themes.
Some important exhibits that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this historic museum are:
Visitor Centre
Start your visit at the Welcome Centre of the Al Shindagha Museum. From here, you’ll receive orientation and information about guided tours, events, and current programs. With an efficient ticketing system, you’ll have a smooth start without long queues.
Moreover, friendly staff at Al Shindagha Museum are available to answer questions about museum timings, exhibits, and accessibility.
Children’s Pavilion
The Children’s Pavilion at Al Shindagha Museum allows kids to explore the Emirati heritage with a mixture of traditional, interactive and high-tech exhibits. The area is designed to be fun and educational, featuring hands-on experiences to capture children’s imaginations.
Moreover, kids can enjoy traditional Emirati culture, explore nature, and learn about local wildlife. Additionally, the area promotes inter-generational storytelling and observational skills, making history more enjoyable for young ones.
Governance and Society
As one of the top museums in Dubai, the Al Shindagha Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s origins. It showcases the emirate’s social structure and leadership through engaging exhibitions. Also, it demonstrates the effects of traditional values on modern Dubai.
This area is divided into three sections:
- Al Maktoum Residence: Explore the history of Dubai’s ruling family and 19th-century leadership.
- People & Faith House: It represents the Emirati Islamic heritage, family life, business practices and much more.
- Emerging City: This house shows Dubai’s expansion and landscape, highlighting the megastructures of the Shindagha neighbourhood.
- Dubai Creek: It represents the birthplace of Dubai, from where trade and modern society took root. Here you can experience the history of seafarers, merchants and boat builders who laid the foundation for Dubai’s future success.
Traditional Crafts
Explore interactive, hands-on displays at this museum to discover Dubai’s diverse craft traditions. In this section, you can learn and experience traditional weaving, embroidery, and much more.
Traditional Jewellery Exhibit
Are you interested in beautiful traditional bridal jewellery? Admire the magnificent collection that was first worn by the late Fatma Baqer and then shared by more than 2,000 brides on their big day.
Perfume House
Ever wondered about the classic perfume-making process? At the Perfume House, explore the origins of the alluring scents of Emirati culture and the techniques used to create wonderful perfumes.
Culture of the Sea
Ever wanted to go on a traditional dhow or become a pearl diver? Explore the development of the dhow industry and the pearl diving trade as you delve into Dubai’s maritime history through virtual reality.
Saruq Al Hadid
Are you curious about the mysteries of the past? Explore Saruq Al Hadid’s world and discover the secrets of the Bronze and Iron Ages that lie beneath the dunes of the desert.
Traditional Food
Visit the traditional food house and learn how Emirati cuisine preserves history. Savour and celebrate with traditional Emirati dishes such as Machboos and Harees, each telling a distinct tale.
Beauty and Adornment House
The Beauty and Adornments house invites guests to explore the unique methods, looks and products that represent Dubai’s traditional beauty.
Life on Land House
At the 4D theatre, guests can start their adventure by soaring above Dubai’s landscapes like a falcon. This interactive experience provides an aerial perspective of life for the Emirati people in the past.
Traditional Healthcare
This house highlights the importance of traditional healers and the history of ancient Emirati medicine. The Traditional Healthcare exhibit showcases plants like ginger and saffron and their use for therapeutic purposes.
Facilities
This museum is packed with facilities like:
- People of Determination (PoD) Toilets
- Prayer Room
- Baby Changing Room
- Cloakroom
- Cafe
- Ferry Stop
- Shops
- Metro Stop
Ticket Price
Purchase your tickets in person at the Visitor Centre, Poetry House and Culture of the Sea Pavilion or online at museumticketing.dubaiculture.gov.ae. Here are the ticket prices:
Prices
- Adults: AED 50
- Students (5-24): AED 20
- Groups (5+ persons): AED 40 each
- Children under 5: Free
- POD, UAE seniors (60+) and ICOM card holders: Free
How to Get to Al Shindagha Museum
This museum is located in the Al Shindagha Historical District and is easily accessible by bus, ferry and Dubai Metro.
- Metro: Al Ghubaiba Station
- Bus: Al Ghubaiba Bus Station
- Car Parking: Available on Al Khaleej Street
- Ferry: Al Ghubaiba Terminal
Accessibility
Need assistance with accessibility? The majority of museum houses are step-free and have staff and mobility buggies available to help. Simply ask any staff member for assistance.
Restaurants Near Al Shindagha Museum
While exploring the Al Shindagha Museum, you might feel hungry. Luckily, there are many restaurants nearby. Let’s have a look at them:
1. Kasthamandap
Skilled chef James creates cuisine that honours Nepal’s many regions while fusing tradition and creativity. Experience Nepalese dining with wonderful decor and astonishing views of the Creek.
Distance
11 minutes drive away
Price per head
AED 75
Opening Hours
11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
2. Creek City Restaurant
An exceptional Turkish restaurant to treat your hunger. It offers outdoor seating and serves vegan dishes. Kids can enjoy the play area. Also, you can savour a variety of delicious soups here.
Distance
12 minutes drive away
Cuisine
Arabian, Middle Eastern
Price per head
AED 70 – AED 75
Opening Hours
08:00 AM – 02:00 AM
3. Gujarati Thal Restaurant
Craving for some street food or spicy flavours? Here’s the place with an outdoor seating arrangement and vegan dishes. You can also enjoy the live music while dining.
Distance
12 minutes drive away
Cuisine
Fast food, Street Food, North & South Indian, Chinese
Price per head
AED 20 – AED 30
Opening Hours
06:00 AM – 11:30 PM
FAQs
The Al Shindagha Museum showcases Dubai’s rich history through heritage houses. Each house highlights different aspects of Emirati life, including traditional crafts, customs, and the city’s transformation.
Abdalla Al Obeidli is the acting manager of the Al Shindagha Museum. He emphasises the museum’s commitment to preserving Emirati history and reviving traditions for future generations.
Plan your next visit to this museum with your kids. Consider the ticket prices, nearby restaurants, and much more when visiting this place. Don’t miss out on this cultural treasure, immerse yourself in Dubai’s rich legacy and history.
Also, for more insights on the best places to visit in the UAE, keep reading the Property Finder blog.
