Exploring the cultural heritage of the country of the nouveau riche

As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, the UAE has many world-famous architectural landmarks and luxurious tourist destinations. But beyond the glittering modern landscapes, there are also hidden cultural treasures that hold precious and ancient heritage, harboring unknown historical legacies. Let's explore and discover the history and cultural background of these museums together~

Dubai Museum

Dubai Museum, built in 1787, is located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood in Dubai's old town. This museum was once a defensive fortress, protecting the town's residents from enemy invasions. Now, it has become one of Dubai's most popular tourist attractions, showcasing the rich history of the city. The museum also features an inspiring art gallery that displays Dubai's artistic culture. Dubai Museum is an authentic historical site that will give you a deeper understanding of the city's past and present.

Al Ahmadiya School

This building dates back to the 1890s when it was the residence of a wealthy pearl merchant, featuring exquisite design. Over time, the house was donated and converted into a school. In 1912, Al Ahmadiya School was established here, becoming Dubai's first formal school open to the public. Before this, local people generally relied on home education for their children, and the middle class and below could not afford the cost of education. The founding of Al Ahmadiya School was epoch-making and had a profound impact on the history of Dubai and the entire UAE.

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is one of the largest and most famous mosques in Dubai, located in the Jumeirah district. It was originally built in 1976 and then expanded in 2014, now accommodating over 1,200 worshippers. The mosque features traditional Middle Eastern architectural style, with elegant exterior and interior decorations, including marble columns, decorative glass, and piano wood carvings. Visitors should be mindful of dress and behavior codes when visiting the mosque; women are required to wear long-sleeved clothing and headscarves. During prayer times, visitors are not allowed inside the mosque, but they can enter for tours during non-prayer times.

Sheikh's Residence

The Sheikh's Residence is located northwest of the Dubai Museum, about a 20-minute walk away. It was once the office and resting place of the old sheikh during his reign and has now been converted into a small historical and cultural museum, showcasing Islamic architectural culture and the history of Dubai to visitors. If you visit during the day, you might get sunburned, so it is recommended to visit in the evening. At night, you can taste many local snacks, with prices starting from 5 dirhams, and a wide variety of options. After visiting the cultural museum, you can also walk to the seaside to enjoy the sea breeze and the charming night sea view.

Dubai Heritage Village Museum

Walking through the Dubai Heritage Village feels like traveling back in time to the early days of Dubai. Pearl farming was prevalent in early Dubai, and the village contains a wealth of precious photos and videos that vividly record the everyday life of Dubai's people, including their traditional clothing, lifestyle, colorful customs, and delicious food. Although the village is not large, you will still find several old buildings and a row of stalls selling various souvenirs and handicrafts. The small crafts here are very exquisite and beautiful, so if you are interested, you might want to stay and take a closer look.