Dubai, contrary to popular belief, is not just all glitz and glam; it’s pretty historic too. Quick fact: Some ceramics found near modern-day Dubai are well over 1,500 years old and the city finds its mention in some ancient travelogues.

But Dubai’s history is not that prominent, which is why you have to make an effort to search for vestiges of it. But we’ve done that for you. You’re welcome.

Majlis Ghurfat Umm Al-Sheif

This is the restored summerhouse of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai. The structure dates back to 1955 and originally sat in the midst of a date palm plantation. It offers a wonderful peek into the city’s past.

Coordinates: 25.186659731056274, 55.23066395940113

Recommended

Lovin Travels… Thailand!Your Ultimate Dubai Metro Map Guide7 Natural Sites You Need To Visit In The UAE

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Majlis Ghorfat Um Al Sheif (@_um_alsheif_)

Burj Nahar

Dubai originally had so many watchtowers overlooking the sea but not all did manage to survive – this is one that did. Standing out like a proverbial sore thumb from its surrounding, you’ll love its setting amidst verdant lawns and palm trees. The Burj Nahar was built back in 1870. WOW!

Coordinates: 25.27521191805304, 55.31601162170333

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ग णे श | G A N E S H | غانيش (@gbp125)

Sheikh Saeed Al Makhtoum’s House

Take a look at those lovely wind towers. This is probably the most popular place on our list but we’re mentioning it anyway as it’s not on the radar of many foreign tourists. Located in the Shinghada Historic District, the 19th-century house was the residence of the former ruler of Dubai. It currently houses a modest museum devoted to historic photographs and documents of the city.

Coordinates: 25.268156479968365, 55.2899883857737

Get a glimpse of the history of Dubai inside the house of the former ruler of #Dubai, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum 🇦🇪 pic.twitter.com/iQMkoNDNCF

— Jack Rashid (@JackRashid14) October 14, 2021

Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum

The structure that houses the museum dates back to the 50s and is located a stone’s throw away from Dubai’s famous Deira Gold Souk. The museum honors the contributions of women throughout the country’s history. Interesting, no?

Coordinates: 25.271807982710737, 55.29873052088177

The poetry room in Bait Al Banat Women’s museum in Deira #Dubai
Heritage tour with @SeawingsDubai and @Uber_UAE @7DAYSUAE #UAENationalDay pic.twitter.com/w183kBGdFq

— veathika (@veathika) November 27, 2016

Juthoor Art Center

The former home of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Saeed Al Maktoum houses an incredible collection of artworks. Now, that’s how you preserve history by making it double up as an art gallery.

Coordinates: 25.265326401233434, 55.28992252393751

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Silvana Rees (@silvanarees)