Dubai Museum

Dubai Museum is the main museum in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, housed within the historic Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest existing building in the city.

The fort was originally built in 1787 to defend Dubai against external threats, and over the centuries, it served varied purposes including a palace, garrison, and prison. In 1971, the fort was converted into Dubai Museum to showcase the rich cultural heritage and historical evolution of the emirate.

The museum offers visitors a comprehensive view of Dubai’s transformation from a small fishing and pearling village into a modern metropolis.

Exhibits at Dubai Museum include detailed dioramas and life-size replicas depicting traditional Bedouin life, old souks, pearl diving, and desert wildlife. The museum also displays artifacts such as ancient weapons, traditional musical instruments, and old maps that highlight historical trading routes.

The central courtyard of the museum features a bronze cannon, a traditional dhow boat, and a reconstructed summer house with a wind tower, which exemplify the traditional architecture and lifestyle. Visitors can gain an immersive sense of Dubai’s past with exhibits illustrating the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the community before the discovery of oil drastically changed the region’s fortunes.

The museum is located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (formerly known as Al Bastakiya), a district known for its preserved historic buildings and wind towers, making it a key cultural and tourist attraction that connects Dubai’s heritage with its present-day prosperity.