I went to see...
The Dubai Museum.
Located in Bur Dubai, this 1787 fort that once protected the city from invaders from the sea, was turned into a museum in the early 70s. At only 3 dhs (less than 1 US dollar) for adult admission, the museum is no doubt a bargain for tourists. It is located in the middle of a market area, very easy to miss and is practically unknown to locals. Visitors are guided in a time-lined journey through Dubai’s past from arid desert and Bedouin life to marine life and pearl-diving, all prior to the oil boom.
The first galleries present visitors with a look at the old fort and some of its primitive weaponry including swords, daggers and scabbards. Later displays shed light on the city’s emergence as a strategic port of trade and depict scenes from everyday life including the souk with its potters, blacksmiths, tailors, herb and spice shops etc. The last gallery explores two important aspects of its history; shipbuilding and pearl-diving. The high-tech ceiling and the effective use of lighting and reflective mirror walls creates an impressive illusion of space in that gallery. It then becomes a reminder that you have entered into more modern times and that your journey is about to end. Like most journeys in museum exhibitions, this one ends at the museum store. Flash photography is allowed as there are no signs advising otherwise.
A definite must-see in Dubai.
I am glad I went to see…the Dubai Museum.
The old fort
The Souk and its merchants
Bedouin life and crafts
Pearl-diving, fishing and shipbuilding
