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Complete Guide to Al Shindagha: Dubai’s Historic and Cultural Gem

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Al Shindagha Bur Dubai is an old area at the heart of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Al Shindagha is a historical district in Bur Dubai that is located next to Dubai Creek. It has Port Rashid on one side and on the other side borders Al Fahidi. Being situated along Al Khaleej Road (D92), it is near the Shindagha Tunnel that joins Deira and Bur Dubai.

Tourists who visit Al Shindagha Bur Dubai will have an opportunity to explore several attractions. Such as Al Shindagha Museum where they get insights about the history and culture of Dubai. Besides, there are also some historical buildings within this district which include Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House. As it is a former residence of the previous ruler of Dubai.

History & Heritage

Al Shindagha

Al Shindagha Bur Dubai is an area that celebrates the rich history and heritage of its city Dubai. The restoration process in this region has been intensive. So as to breathe life back into old buildings and parts.

Al Shindagha Historical District

The historic section known as The Al Shindagha Historical District is one of those prominent places in Dubai. This region features the building which was turned into an educational facility – The Museum of Al Shinagah. Its role was initiated by providing more information concerning Emirati past and customs to the local community. It also gives a chance to learn about the history of the Arabian Peninsula, especially that of the UAE.

Saeed Al Maktoum House

The house belongs to Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum. It is one of the most popular landmarks and an integral part of Dubai history. It was his residence from 1912 till 1958, the period when he ruled the city as Sheikh. Having been renovated in 1986 it is currently open to the public as a section of Al Shindagha Museum.

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Bani Yas Tribe

Among the oldest tribes in the UAE is Bani Yas that has played an important role in the history of Dubai. It is worth mentioning that the Maktoum family who are rulers of Dubai belong to this tribe. This rich heritage and culture of the Bani Yas tribe is still celebrated today in Dubai.

Dubai has a deep historical background and rich traditions. Both of which can be seen in Al Shindagha Bur Dubai, which acts as a cultural melting pot. Here are some must see cultural attractions found here:

Shindagha Museum

Another must visit place at Al Shindagha is called Shindagha Museum. An elegant rehabilitated traditional building. It showcases its extensive exhibits on the history and culture of Dubai. The museum consists of many artifacts, photos, and interactive displays. This helps people to get an overall idea about former development stages happening to Dubai.

Things to do at Shindagha Museum

Al Shindagha

  • The Perfume House

Learn how Arabic perfume was traditionally made. Discover what goes into making perfumes with local ingredients such as saffron, oud and roses.

  • Al Maktoum Residence

Visit Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s home. See pieces representing notable figures from Dubai’s past.

  • Emerging City

Walk through displays documenting developments in politics, religion, economy and society. All these leading up to modern day emirate status for areas like Dubai Creek or Deira. It also contains a photo gallery on display showcasing major activities during the era of discovery.

  • Traditional Craft House

Visit early artisans in the area. A collection of aesthetically important artifacts that demonstrate traditional skills.

  • Traditional Jewellery House

Learn Emirati culture through traditional jewelry craftsmanship

  • Traditional Beauty and Adornment House

Know about natural ingredients and methods used in traditional Emirati beauty products. Take a trip through time to see how people used to dress by exploring different kinds of clothing.

  • Natural Healing Centre

Discover how traditional healers treated their patients with natural herbs and spices. Such as turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon.

  • Seafaring Culture

A rich maritime history lasting thousands of years is what Dubai has seen. Know more about the regional marine life and aquatic ecosystems.

  • Children’s Pavilion

There are interactive exhibits created for children. It helps them learn about Emirati culture, heritage and traditions through characters like Hamad or Hessa.

  • Land Life

Feel desert, ocean, mountains through 4D theater experience in the region’s landscapes. Gain insights into traditional Emirati life and nature.

  • Traditional food

Enjoy the Emirati culinary art, ingredients utilized, cooking styles practiced as well as preservation methods.

Timing of the Shindagha Museum

Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday to Monday: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Last admission is allowed till 7:00 PM

Ticket Price of Shindagha Museum

Adults (24 years and above): 50 AED

Students (5 to 24 years old): 20 AED

Group (5 persons or more): 40 AED

Children (Under 5): Free

Emirati Senior Citizen: Free

Cafes & Restaurants

Al Shindagha

Shindagha has many cafes and restaurants to cater for everyone. Some of the popular cafes in this area are:

  • The Coffee Club
  • Costa Coffee
  • Starbucks

Textile Souk

It is a shopping paradise for any person who loves to shop. Therefore, the Textile Souk in Al Shindagha is among the places that one must go. This traditional bazaar sells many kinds of clothes including wool, silk and flax. It is a good place to buy souvenirs like scarves, shawls and traditional women’s dresses.

Besides fabrics there are other things on display at the Textile Souk; spices, perfumes, jewelry among others. The souk is open from 9 am till ten o’clock at night with Dubai Ferry being its most convenient link.

Hotels beside Al Shindagha

  • Barjeel Heritage Guesthouse
  • Howard Johnson by Wyndham – Khalid Bin Waleed Road
  • Royal Ascot Hotel – Khalid Bin Waleed Road
  • Astoria Hotel – Al Fahidi Street
  • Fortune Grand Hotel Apartment – Mankhool Road
  • Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel

Supermarkets close to Al Shindagha

  • City Centre Shindagha
  • ZOOM – Al Ghubaiba Metro Station Exit 2
  • Al Madina Supermarket – Boohbah Building, Al Souq Al Kabeer
  • Baqar Mohebi – Al Shoula Residence B, Al Raffa

Restaurants at or near Al Shindagha

City Centre Shindagha has a food court where there are several cafes and restaurants such as:

  • Tapa King
  • Chic Boy Inasal Restaurant
  • Bombay Chowpatty
  • Pizza Hut
  • Subway
  • KFC
  • McDonald’s
  • ChicKing
  • Baskin Robbins
  • Tea To Go

Other upscale restaurants near Bur Dubai

  • Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – The Canvas Hotel, Al Mankhool
  • Kris With A View – Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Al Karama
  • TOMO – Raffles Dubai, Umm Hurair 2
  • Bu Qtair
  • Al Ustad Special Kebab
  • Ravi Restaurant

Beaches around Al Shindagha

Al Shindagha

However, there is no beach at Al Shindagha. It takes about 15 minutes driving from the region to reach some public beaches in Dubai such as:

Jumeirah Public Beach which features a 1.8km running track,

North Beach in Pearl Jumeirah which is next to Nikki Beach Resort and Spa.

Mosques located in Al Shindagha

Al Shindagha

  • Bin Hareb Mosque
  • Al Mur Bin Heraize Mosque
  • Al Shuyoukh Mosque
  • Al Mulla Mosque
  • Bin Zayed Mosque
  • Al Otaiba Mosque
  • Grand Dubai Mosque (Bur Dubai Masjid)

Schools near Al Shindagha

  • New Academy School (NAS)
  • Lycee Francais International (LFI)
  • The Ambassador School

Nurseries around Al Shindagha

  • Little Diamond Nursery
  • Hope Montessori Nursery
  • British Orchard Nursery

Clinics and Hospitals beside Al Shindagha

Clinics

  • Aster Clinic – Al Ghubaiba
  • Liverpool Medical Clinic – Al Raffa
  • Vida Clinics – Al Raffa
  • Better Life Clinic Dubai – Mankhool

Hospitals

  • Aster Hospital – Mankhool
  • Medeor Hospital – Umm Hurair
  • International Modern Hospital – Al Raffa

Nearby Areas of Interest

Port Rashid (Mina Rashid)

Faces Al Shindagha towards the west. A place where Emaar has many off-plan properties in Dubai. It is a prime commercial district and cruise destination.

Deira

Adjacent to Al Shindagha across Dubai Creek. It is one of Dubai’s oldest business districts as well as a major trading hub.

Neighboring Communities

Al Fahidi (Al Bastakiya)

It borders Al Shindagha to the east, it is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bur Dubai with the famous Al Fahidi Historical District.

Al Mina

A residential area near the coast and borders Jumeirah 1.

Al Mankhool

Primarily residential featuring retail outlets, schools and restaurants.

Al Hudaiba

Government offices and apartment buildings.

Transportation and Accessibility

Public Transport

Various public transport options connect Al Shindagha Bur Dubai with the rest of Dubai.

Metro

A Dubai metro station is nearby, providing easy access to different sections of the city.

Bus Stops

Additionally, there are many bus stops situated around the area. This makes it suitable for commuters traveling to and from Al Shindagha with rental car.

Dubai Ferry

Also operating from the nearest Port Rashid is the Dubai ferry. It offers a scenic and convenient mode of transportation.

Parking Facilities

Al Shindagha Bur Dubai has numerous parking facilities for those who drive their own vehicles. The area offers both paid and free parking such as street parking and designated parking lots. With RTA Dubai Parking app visitors can find available parking spots and pay for their parking.

Note

During peak hours, traffic congestion may be heavy at Al Shindagha Tunnel. However, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has put in place a number of traffic improvement projects. One of them is the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project aimed at boosting transportation infrastructure.

FAQs

Al Shindagha dates back to the early 19th century. It was the original settlement of the Al Maktoum royal family.
Visitors can take guided tours and visit the museums. Wander through the restored historic buildings to immerse themselves in the area's rich history.
Al Shindagha is known for its wind tower houses and coral stone buildings.
Yes, the district hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Al Shindagha is easily accessible by public transportation, including Dubai Metro and water taxis.
The best times to visit are during the cooler months. When the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor historic sites and museums.
Yes, the district offers traditional Emirati dining experiences and opportunities.
Depending on your interests, a visit to Al Shindagha can range from a few hours to a full day. Thus, allowing time to immerse yourself in the history and culture.

Lily Olivia

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AED 1200 /mo.
AED 45 /day
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FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Al Shindagha established?

Al Shindagha dates back to the early 19th century. It was the original settlement of the Al Maktoum royal family.

How can I explore the history of Al Shindagha?

Visitors can take guided tours and visit the museums. Wander through the restored historic buildings to immerse themselves in the area's rich history.

What types of traditional architecture can be seen in Al Shindagha?

Al Shindagha is known for its wind tower houses and coral stone buildings.

Are there any cultural events or festivals held in Al Shindagha?

Yes, the district hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

How can I get to Al Shindagha?

Al Shindagha is easily accessible by public transportation, including Dubai Metro and water taxis.

What are the best times to visit Al Shindagha?

The best times to visit are during the cooler months. When the weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor historic sites and museums.

Are there any dining or shopping options in Al Shindagha?

Yes, the district offers traditional Emirati dining experiences and opportunities.

How long should I allocate to explore Al Shindagha?

Depending on your interests, a visit to Al Shindagha can range from a few hours to a full day. Thus, allowing time to immerse yourself in the history and culture.