The residence of the former Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum has been carefully restored and changed into the museum presenting the surprising change of the small desert country to the modern metropolis.
Finished in 1896 the building is one of the oldest in the city. Made with use of traditional local materials, such as calcium, sandstone and coral the residence of the Ruler in form is a typical courtyard house with elaborated high wind towers located in Al-Shandagha area. There are total of 30 rooms divided into independent family units, thick walls and wind towers provided maximum of coolness. After the restoration in 1986, the present air-conditioned museum exhibits huge collection of coins, postage stamps, maps and various documents, including peace treaties and property rental agreements. The model of old Dubai near the museum’s entrance and the collection of the old black-and-white photographs show the city from 1960′s and 70′s , and so it was the time of introduction of electricity to the Emirate.
The ancestors of the Maktoum family are from Bedouin tribe that one lived in the area of Abu Zabi. After moving to Al-Ajn the tribe found fishing profitable enough to leave a desert and settle near the river’s mouth. Thorough the whole 19th century had to struggle for power with the local rival tribes. After the discovery of oil in Abu Zabi in the mid 20th century, the family of Maktoum remain the rulers of Dubai, and decided to extend and prepare the port for the import of heavy equipment for oil drilling and transportation. The decision brought capital to Dubai, and in spite of having oil deposits the Emirate of Dubai still focuses on profits from international transit ports and trade centers.Today many of the members of Maktoum family are holding the key positions in many of big international companies.
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Al-Shandagha
phone: 3937139
opening hours: Sat-Thu 8.00-20.30 Fri 15.30-21.30