Dubai is known for its modern architecture and skyscrapers. It also has many world records in the field of architecture. From Palm Islands to Burj Khalifa, the sky-rocketing beauty of Dubai can leave you mesmerized. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai have been built over the past few decades. However, the city also has several museums to honor its rich and vibrant history.
Dubai’s museums that give you insight into its rich heritage
If you are a history buff and want to know how Dubai became the amazing city it is now, there is no better way to do so than by visiting some of the most amazing museums. In this article, we will discuss the top 12 museums worth visiting in Dubai.
1. Dubai Museum
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Located in Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai, the museum is best suited for those who want to understand the transformation of Dubai’s historic downtown into the modern city that we see today. It is located close to Dubai Creek which is one of the most traditional areas of the city. The Al Fahidi Fort in which this museum is located was built in 1787. The history of the city is depicted through models explaining the story of people, animals and places. You’ll get a glimpse of history along with some amazing artefacts.
Time: 8:30 am to 8:30 pm
Place: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
2. Etihad Museum
Located at 1 Jumeirah Street, the Etihad Museum is the newest museum and also the most impressive. The museum tells the story of the United Arab Emirates. It is located at the place where the country was formed in 1971. It educates people about the time period when the seven emirates came together and decided to form the United Arab Emirates. For history lovers, this interactive and educational experience will last a lifetime.
Time: 10 am to 8 pm
Place: 1 Jumeirah St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
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3. Hatta Heritage Village
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Located in Hatta, which is on the outskirts of Dubai, Hatta Heritage Village has a rich history spanning 2000-3000 years. It was renovated and opened to tourists in 2001. Tourists get a glimpse of the hilly region of Hatta and the ancient village that existed long ago. There are some original buildings, two palaces and a fort that tourists can visit. These buildings contain original tools, furniture and weapons along with some model structures to illustrate the story.
Time: 7:30 am to 8:30 pm
Place: Hatta Area – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
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4. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Located in Al Shindagha, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House was built in 1896. It holds immense importance in the history of Dubai. The Al Maktoum family, the ruling family of Dubai, lived in this location until 1958. The late Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum was the last ruler to live in this house. After the family moved to their new residence, the house was converted into a museum. It houses amazing historical photographs of the royal family, a collection of jewellery, coins and stamps. If you are interested in understanding how life changed for the royal family over the last century, this museum will satisfy your curiosity.
Time: 8 AM – 8:30 PM
Place: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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5. Al Bastakiya
Located in Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai, Al Bastakiya offers insight into the historic neighborhood of Dubai. It reflects the lives of people who existed before the rise of skyscrapers. If you are an art lover, the Majlis Gallery in this museum will be a wonderful experience for you.
Time: 9 am to 6 pm
Place: Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
6. Coffee Museum
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Located in the Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood, Al Bastakiya, the Coffee Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum that gives insight into the regional and international history of coffee with the help of antiquities. It is housed in historic buildings and gives tourists the chance to live in old Dubai. The tasting sessions at the museum are best for coffee lovers.
Time: 9 am to 5 pm
Place: Villa 44, Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood, Bastakiya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
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7. Saruq Al-Hadid Museum
Located in Dubai’s historic Shindagha district, the Saruk Al-Hadid Museum showcases the historic times of the Iron Age in Dubai. The artifacts in this museum were found at an archaeological site on the edge of the Rub’ al-Khali desert. Archaeologists have found thousands of iron tools, bronze vessels, gold jewelry and fossils that are now on display.
Time: 8 am to 8 pm
Place: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
8. Museum of the Future
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The museum is scheduled to open in 2019 and will show how technology may evolve over the next two decades. It was established by Dubai Future Foundation. This will also help in understanding the possible climate change by 2050. The museum will also organize workshops, talks and special courses using existing technology. It is poised to become the world’s largest museum with exciting opportunities and trends.
Time: yet to be announced
Place: Trade Center 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
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9. Inexperienced Museum
Located in Deira, the Dubai Ned Museum is housed in an old fort that once served as a prison and police headquarters. The museum displays the evolution of the justice system as well as the police force in Dubai. It was built in 1939 using mostly clay and features life-size models, exhibits and displays. Gain fascinating insight into the evolution of the Dubai Police Force through life-size statues and interactive exhibitions.
Time: 8 am to 2 pm
Place: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
10. Pearl Museum
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At present, the economy of this region is mainly dependent on oil. However, in the past, it was famous for pearls. It has a history of producing some of the finest pearls in the history of the world. Many of these natural wonders are now on display in the Pearl Museum. The museum also displays the lives of the divers and the equipment they used. You must make travel arrangements with Emirates NBD in advance and they prefer small groups of 8-10 people at a time.
Place: 10 Beniyas Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
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11. Dubai Moving Image Museum
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If you are looking for a visual treat that showcases the history of modern cinema, this museum will be your delight. It is located on Sheikh Zayed Road. It displays old moving image devices from the 1730s that belong to the collection of Akram Mikna. It houses a collection of shadow plays, peep boxes, magic lanterns, modern animation and cinematography.
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Place: MCN Hive, 1st Floor, TCom – Dubai – UAE
12. Camel Museum
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The UAE is known for its love for camels. This museum was built to showcase the rich history of man-animal bonding in the region. This museum, maintained by Sheikhs in the past, has wonderful paintings. It is a unique example of a museum where technology, history and heritage come together in one place. Experience live camel racing events next time you are around.
Dubai has a lot to offer in terms of modern culture and entertainment. However, the city administration is also keen to educate people about the rich history and culture of the city. These museums are amazing and worth a visit to Dubai.
Place: Al Shandagha Historic District – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
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FAQs about Museums in Dubai
What is the Dubai Museum entry fee?
Dubai Museum entry fee is AED 3 (INR 59) for adults and AED 1 (INR 20) for children.
What are the opening hours of Dubai Museum?
The opening hours of Dubai Museum are 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.
What time does Dubai Museum open and close?
Dubai Museum Timings: 2:30 pm to 8:30 pm
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