This is what Dubai Museum looks like and if it’s worth a visit.
Considering that I come from Europe, where “places to visit” typically include monuments, grand archaeological ruins, and cultural heritage dating back thousands of years, I was a bit surprised to be directed toward shopping malls in Dubai by default. However, I remained persistent, and eventually, someone recommended the Dubai Museum, housed in the old fortress of Al Fahidi. Built in 1787, Al Fahidi fort is a historic landmark where, they assured me, I would discover the rich history I was so eager to learn.
Dubai Museum
At first glance, the fort resembles a castle, but it’s actually a reconstruction built on the site of the original Al Fahidi. After passing through a courtyard adorned with (replicas of) traditional pearl trading boats, I found myself descending a spiral walkway that led underground. The temperature dropped significantly, and I entered a dimly lit space showcasing posters of different decades, from the 1930s to the present.
And there it was—Dubai’s entire history, summarized on posters along the walls!
As I ventured deeper into the tunnel, the museum started to resemble an amusement park. Various sections were set up as (replica) old Arab craft shops, with life-sized figures lining both sides of the path. The sand-covered floor added a subtle desert touch.
One room was dedicated to pearl diving, once a highly lucrative trade in early Dubai, while another room displayed panels detailing how people used to navigate through the desert at night. And that was it—the “amusement park” version of the city’s history…
(Below, you’ll find some options for organized tours around this part of the city, including museums. It will be easier for you when you have a general idea of what to expect, and it’s always nice to share impressions with tourists from other parts of the world. The tours are in English, reasonably priced, and you’ll learn a lot. Click the link below.)
It took me a moment to adjust as I made my way back to the surface. I had to refocus and remind myself where I was. This is Dubai, a city that rose from the sands in less than 20 years, not the typical historical site one might expect. “Places to visit” here are definitely not what you anticipate…
In any case, it was indeed time for shopping!
Next: STROLLING AROUND DEIRA
The full Dubai SERIES
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2 responses
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