Dubai has recently opened its largest heritage museum, the Al Shindagha Museum, with the aim of attracting more than a million visitors by 2025. Spread across more than 20 pavilions, the museum tells the story of Dubai’s history and offers insight into the development of the emirate over the decades. The museum is located in the Creek area and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, with exhibits dating back to the 1800s. It aims to attract over 1 million visitors by 2025.
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Preserving UAE’s Cultural and Historical Heritage
The UAE’s Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, emphasized the importance of preserving the country’s cultural and historical heritage, which reflects the diverse values of the national identity. He described museums as cultural beacons that embody the UAE’s heritage and culture, and highlighted the significance of Dubai’s story and history as a hub for traders and global civilizations.
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The Role of Al Shindagha Museum in Preserving Cultural Heritage
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, stressed the vital role of the Al Shindagha Museum in preserving tangible and intangible cultural heritage, which is the foundation of any civilization. She expressed appreciation for the contributions of historians, heritage experts, and collectors who have enriched the museum with rare possessions and documents that compellingly reflect the customs, traditions, and heritage of Dubai’s ancient past.
Museum Features and Exhibits
The Al Shindagha Museum covers around 310,000 square meters and features 22 pavilions, including 80 historic houses showcasing the development of the UAE. Each pavilion has themed displays showcasing the history and culture in the UAE, such as the Dubai Creek, People and Faith, Emerging City, Perfume House, Traditional Crafts, Beauty and Adornment, Traditional Jewellery, Traditional Healthcare, Children House, Culture of the Sea, Community Hall, Life on Land, Traditional Food House, Poetry House, and Al Maktoum Residence.
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Touring the Museum
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid toured the different sections of the museum and was briefed about the various assets on display, particularly the Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed section, which archives the experience of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and his role in the development of Dubai. He was also briefed about the various collections on display at the Al Maktoum Residence section, which showcases the ruling family’s legacy and accomplishments, as well as the historic events that took place in Dubai over the years.
Museum as a Cultural Beacon
The Al Shindagha Museum serves as a cultural beacon that embodies Dubai’s heritage and reflects its diverse human and cultural dimensions. With its immersive exhibits and themed displays, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional Emirati lifestyle and the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum aims to attract more than a million visitors by 2025 and offers investment and development projects related to heritage and culture, including services and amenities for visitors.
