Saruq Al Hadid Archaeological Museum

The Saruq Al Hadid Archaeological Museum displays thousands of metal artifacts, weapons, tools, and jewelry discovered in Dubai's desert region. The collection comes from an ancient metalworking site that records trade and craftsmanship from the first thousand years before the modern era.

The site was uncovered in 2002 when Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum spotted iron slag deposits during an aerial survey. The discovery revealed a long-forgotten ancient trading post in the Arabian desert.

The building was originally the home of Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum from 1928, blending traditional Arabic design with modern additions. Inside, visitors see how prosperous families lived in Dubai during that period.

The museum features interactive exhibits where visitors can participate in simulated archaeological digs and join guided tours with explanations of ancient metalworking techniques. Tours provide the best overview of the crafts and daily life of the ancient artisans.

The museum houses a notable gold ring with snake designs that inspired the logo for Dubai Expo 2020. This ancient piece of jewelry connects the past to a major modern event in an unexpected way.