Saeed Al Maktoum House, Historic residence in Al Shindagha, United Arab Emirates.
Saeed Al Maktoum House is a two-storey residence in Al Shindagha, built around 1896 from coral covered with lime and sand. Two large entrances lead to a wide inner courtyard ringed by the majlis, living rooms, stores and kitchens; the upper floor has broad balconies facing Dubai Creek. Four wind towers rise above the roof, and the museum's displays are spread over nine wings across 3,600 square metres.
Built around 1896 as the seat of the Al Maktoum family, the house was the residence of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum until his death in 1958 and the birthplace of his sons and grandsons. It was restored in 1986 and opened to visitors in 1996 as a museum documenting old Dubai.
The house reveals how wealthy families lived in Dubai a century ago through household items, traditional furnishings, and everyday objects on display. The spaces tell the story of pearl diving, trade routes, and the social customs that shaped local life.
The house stands on the Dubai Creek bank in Al Shindagha, with the upper floor looking straight onto the water and its wide balconies facing the creek. Exhibits are laid out across nine wings, so allow time to move between them. The two large entrances lead to a wide inner courtyard ringed by the majlis, living rooms, stores and kitchens.
The house displays a collection of coins, stamps, and maritime artifacts that document trade and seafaring across different periods. These objects allow visitors to understand the economic activities that shaped the city's development and character.
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