Dubai Museum: The primary museum in Dubai is housed in Dubai’s oldest standing building within a former fort (the Al Fahida fort) in Bastikia built in 1799. There is a small admission charge to view their collections.

Grand Mosque: The Grand Mosque is situated in Bur Dubai and dates back to 1900 where its original purpose was a school. The Grand Mosque was reconstructed in traditional Islamic style with domes, stained glass, wooden shutters and mosaics and boasts the tallest minaret, where a crier calls people to prayer, in Dubai.

Please note that non-Muslims can only enter the mosque as part of a guided tour.

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House:

A museum located in Port Rashid in the previous residences of Sheikh Saeed. The building dates from the late 1800s and was built in a commanding position near the sea so shipping activity could be observed from the balconies. The museum offers Dubai's last example of traditional domestic architecture. 

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the Bastakia Quarter: The centre hosts cultural breakfasts and lunches in its headquarters with a walking tour of the Bastakia. The luncheon is hosted by an Emirati who discusses the dining customs and types of food experienced by traditional Emiratis and hosts a question-and-answer session about Islamic practices, dress and behaviour.

Contact the centre for further information - +971 4 353 6666 

Jumeirah Archaeological site: An important archaeological site in the United Arab Emirates as it dates back to the 6^th century on a site along an ancient trade route linking Iraq to Oman.  

Jumeirah Mosque: The mosque is an exquisite example of building using stone in the medieval Fatimid tradition. Photography is permitted and tours are available led by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, to take in the marvel of the mosque, especially at night when the subtle lighting exposes its beauty.   

Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: The Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve that represents an oasis of wilderness amidst the buzzing urban city. The sanctuary is well renowned for attracting migrator

y birds that you can view in the birding hides using borrowed powerful binoculars. Special wildlife to look out for include white-coloured kingfishers and thousands of pink flamingos.  Back to Sightseeing & Culture in Dubai Guide