Dubai opens UAE’s largest heritage museum, eyes 1m visitors by 2025

Dubai has opened the UAE’s largest heritage museum and wants to attract more than a million visitors by 2025.

The Shindagha Museum will tell the history of Dubai and gives an insight into the history of the emirate and its development over the decades.

The new museum is spread across more than 20 pavilions and shares stories of culture in the UAE .

Heritage museum in Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, said that the preservation of the UAE’s cultural and historical heritage is an ongoing responsibility that demonstrates dedication to exhibiting the diverse values of the country’s national identity.

It reflects the human and cultural dimensions that have been exemplified by Emiratis since ancient times, he said.

Sheikh Mohammed added: “Our museums serve as cultural beacons that embody our heritage. We want the world to know Dubai’s story and its history.

“Dubai has always been a hub for traders and those pursuing a better life, and it will continue to thrive as a centre of global civilisations on both cultural and humanitarian fronts.”

The remarks were made during the inauguration of the renovated Al Shindagha Museum in Dubai.

The inauguration ceremony was held at Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House.

The Al Shindagha area, covering around 310,000sq m has been transformed into an open-air museum narrating the inspiring story of Dubai.

The museum will showcase the city’s exceptional achievements and its diverse human and cultural dimensions.

Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Member of Dubai Council, said: “The Al Shindagha Museum plays a vital role in preserving tangible and intangible cultural heritage, which is the foundation of any civilisation. The museum embodies the ambitious spirit of Dubai and documents its success stories.”

Sheikha Latifa expressed her appreciation for the contributions made by thoughtful contributors, researchers, 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.

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 is located within the Al Maktoum Residence and 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.

The Al Maktoum Residence features exhibits on the main decisions and historical projects of Dubai rulers in the 19th century.

The Al Shindagha Museum, located in the Creek area, offers a vivid narration of the history of the city and showcases its rich cultural heritage.

The museum immerses visitors in the region’s traditional lifestyle of the 19th century and 1970s and tells the story of the Emirate’s journey to becoming the modern metropolis it is today.

The Al Shindagha Museum is the largest heritage museum in the UAE, featuring 22 pavilions that include 80 historic houses showcasing the development of the UAE.

It offers a glimpse into the traditional Emirati lifestyle and the rich cultural heritage of the region, with exhibits that date back to the 1800s.

The museum also provides a space for investment and development projects related to heritage and culture, including services and amenities for visitors.

The museum aims to attract over 1 million visitors by 2025 and features collections from more than 100 contributors.

Last month the iconic Museum of the Future announced it had received 1m visitors in its first year since opening.

Each pavilion has its themed displays, showcasing the history and culture in the UAE. These sections include

• Dubai Creek – Birth of a City
• 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
• Al Maktoum Residence