Al Shindagha Museum was opened in March 2023.
One of the newest additions to the Creek area of Dubai’s Al Shindagha
neighbourhood, is the worldclass Al Shindagha Museum. Opened in March
2023, the venue paints a thorough picture of Emirati and Dubai heritage,
inviting visitors to explore this heritage through three main themes:
‘Living off the Sea and Land’, ‘Creativity and Well-Being’, and
‘Governance and Society’.
Sprawling site
The site covers over 162 heritage houses on the banks of the creek
and is designed as a series of 22 themed pavilions, each one exploring a
different aspect of Dubai’s cultural heritage. These include
traditional perfumes where guests discover the important role
traditional scents play in Emirati culture, how they connect to the
past, and their role in religious and everyday life.
Others include the Poetry House, Traditional Crafts, and Beauty and
Adornment. The latter features information on how the adorning of one’s
body is an essential and symbolic part of traditional Emirati culture.
Visitors to the Beauty and Adornments house will be submerged in the
unique techniques, styles, and products that make up the world of
traditional beauty in Dubai. The house displays the kandura, the ghutra,
the shaila, and the jalabiya, traditional wear that has developed from
being merely practical attire to expressive items of outerwear.
The worldclass venue in the Creek area has over 162 heritage houses.Learning about royalty
Visitors will learn about Dubai’s pioneering royalty and their
achievements. At the core of Dubai’s story is that of the ruling Al
Maktoum family, a royal dynasty that has transformed the emirate from a
small town to a globalised metropolis. The family descends from the Al
Bu Falasah section of the Bani Yas, a tribal federation that was once
the dominant power through most of the country. Visitors at Al Maktoum
Residence will discover the history of this pioneering clan.
The venue offers guided tours, and other fun activities such as
Jewellery Making which is inspired by traditional pieces, and Boat
Making, where attendees can build a traditional Emirati boat and learn
about the rich history of boat making in the UAE's culture.
Tickets cost 50 AED (US$13.60) for an adult, but for groups of five or more tickets, at 40 AED per person.
There are multiple restaurants in the Al Shindagha Historical
District, including authentic Emirati coastal cuisine served at the
Arabian Fish House located within one of the historical houses of the
district.