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A different Dubai
I received an electronic map and followed it into the "museum." Following the creek bank, weaving through the narrow passageways between the distinctive architectural features of the barajeel houses, my first impression was one of overwhelming awe at the harmony of the architectural space between the sky and the ground. The golden afternoon sun further enhanced the beauty of the colors and architecture, like a magical guide leading me to the stories of Dubai's past.
The distinctive architectural features of the barajeel houses nestled among date palm trees.
The traditional homes of the Emirati people, often called “barajeel,” are architectural marvels designed to withstand the harsh desert climate. Special wind towers capture and channel cool breezes, creating a form of natural air conditioning. Each home is characterized by its courtyard layout, intricate wooden latticework, and the use of raw materials such as coral stone and plaster. This architecture reflects the practicality and resourcefulness of the Emirati people in adapting to their environment.
The museum's 22 exhibition houses are located along Dubai Creek.
Starting from house number 2 - Children's Pavilion and number 3 - Dubai Creek: Birth of a City (house number 1 is the Visitor Centre, where tickets are purchased), I entered a projection room shaped like a ship at sea, which introduces the history of Dubai's formation on the Arabian Gulf. Following that are houses recreating traditional crafts in Dubai from the past to the present. Clear information, easy-to-understand presentations, and modern technological interactions in each traditional house provide visitors with a truly worthwhile experience.
The buildings with their traditional Arabian roofs and decorative details, the row of tourist houses bathed in the brilliant afternoon sun.
The row of tourist houses bathed in the brilliant afternoon sunlight.
During your exploration of the Al Shindagha museum's exhibits, you'll step into the world of Dubai's people, from the mainland to the open sea, seeing the ingredients and stories that have shaped the empire's prosperity.
Unlike the glitz and glamour that tourists often hear about Dubai, such as the world's richest shopping malls or its skyscrapers, here you'll get a new, more authentic perspective on this unique country. For me, the most interesting house was house number 10 – the Poetry House, where the kingdom's literature is expressed through nomadic Arabic poems. The poems are printed on large canvases, hanging from the high ceiling like a fascinating labyrinth of language.
Arabic poems are scattered throughout the exhibition space of Poetry House.
The interior features modern, interactive, and visually appealing exhibits.
Some traditional handicrafts from Dubai.
After your sightseeing tour, you can take a leisurely stroll along Dubai Creek to enjoy the cool breeze and watch the sunset. Not far away is the Al Seef area, which has a market and a charming ramen shop called Wokyo right by the creek; this is also a great spot to watch the sunset in Dubai.
Ramen shop with sunset view
Information about the Al Shindagha Museum
Address: 288 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Ticket price: 50 AED (approximately 345,000 VND)
Open from 10 AM to 8 PM (last entry at 7 PM)
To thoroughly explore all 22 houses in the museum, you will need at least 5 hours; a quick tour will take about 2 hours.
Located in the historic Al Shindagha district along the Dubai Creek, the Al Shindagha Museum is a unique cultural destination offering visitors a glimpse into Dubai's rich history and heritage. The museum features numerous interactive exhibits that recreate the traditional life of Dubai's people through the ages, from the early days of pearl diving and trading to the city's modern development.
Visiting the Shindagha AI Museum is an experience not to be missed when in Dubai.
In particular, the museum offers immersive audio and visual experiences, allowing visitors to easily connect with the stories and traditional customs of the local people. Al Shindagha Museum is not only a place to display valuable artifacts but also a center for cultural education and organizes activities and workshops to inspire and raise awareness of Dubai's heritage.
The pathways between the houses are also very beautiful.
The house's outdoor exhibit showcases the traditional fishing practices of the people of Dubai.
Exhibition techniques combined with modern technology offer many new and exciting experiences for visitors.
Ambergris - a precious ingredient in Dubai
A famous quote from the current ruler of Dubai, highlighted in this museum space, is: “We may not live for hundreds of years, but the products of our creativity can leave a legacy long after we are gone” - His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
"We may not live for hundreds of years, but our creative works can leave a lasting legacy after we are gone."
Indeed, Dubai's heritage of traditional crafts and cultural foundations, showcased through museum exhibits and documentation, reveals many valuable achievements of the emirate, while also providing visitors with an opportunity to better understand Dubai's current prosperity. It's an ideal destination for those wishing to learn about Dubai not only through its modern facade but also through its rich and meaningful cultural history.
22 houses, 22 stories to help visitors understand more about this unique emirate.
