These wind towers were how Emiratis stayed cool long before air conditioning

Imagine living in the scorching desert without air conditioning. Sounds wild, right? Well, centuries before modern tech, Emiratis turned to “barjeel” which are traditional wind towers that cooled homes like nature’s own AC.

These ingenious structures, found in places like Dubai’s Heritage Village, were built to catch breezes and funnel them indoors, making rooms up to 10°C cooler. The secret? A vertical wind shaft that pulls in fresh air and pushes out hot air. No electricity needed, just pure, eco-friendly innovation.

Want instant updates? Follow Lovin on WhatsApp, and never miss a beat!

They have been around for over 500 years!

Wind towers date back over 500 years (starting in Iran) and became iconic in Dubai during the pearl trade boom in the 1800s. Crafted from coral, palm wood, and other desert-friendly materials, they reflect not just survival smarts but also stunning Arabian architecture.

Recommended

This Is How Emiratis Beat the Heat Before ACWATCH: Little Kids Love Hugging HH Sheikh Mohammed!Round 3 Kicks Off Tomorrow! Get Ready For Ultimate Drifting Action LIVE On Smashi TV!

Today, you can still spot them in historic neighborhoods like Al Fahidi or at modern spots like Madinat Jumeirah, where they blend old-school charm with sustainable living.

When you’re in Dubai, take a stroll through Heritage Village, and let these towers remind you that staying cool in the desert has always been an art.

@explorewithlulu_ The ancestors of today’s AC 😍 #uae #culture #heritage ♬ original sound – LULU | Life In UAE 🌴🇦🇪

WATCH: Little Kids Love Hugging HH Sheikh Mohammed!

Stay in the loop with Dubai’s hottest news, right at your fingertips! Download the Lovin Dubai app for FREE to catch the latest stories on your phone.

Plus, the Lovin Dubai newsletter just got a refresh! Sign up now for your daily dose of news, straight to your inbox!

Get ready to rep your city in style! The Lovin Merch drop is here – Grab yours now!