What comes to your mind when you think about Dubai? Is it Burj Khalifa? Well, why not! But the city is much more than this- it’s a city where modern charm mixes perfectly with history and culture. You can see this blend in its amazing museums, which showcase both the past and the present. These museums give you a chance to experience Dubai’s rich history while also showing you how the city has become a global modern hub. For example, the Dubai Museum takes you back in time, showing you how life was in Dubai before it became the world-famous city we know today. On the other hand, places like the Etihad Museum will show you the story of the UAE’s creation in 1971, helping you understand how Dubai grew into a powerhouse. These museums in Dubai are a must-visit for anyone who wants to understand the true essence of the city!
The Ultimate List of Historical and Contemporary Museums in Dubai
When it comes to the best time to visit Dubai’s museums, the cooler months are the best. From November to March, the weather is much more pleasant, so you can spend hours exploring without feeling the heat. Along with the historical museums, you can also visit contemporary art spots like the Future Museum, Alserkal Avenue or the Dubai Opera, which feature incredible art galleries and performances. If you're someone who loves both history and modern culture, Dubai has a museum for every taste. Plus, during these months, there are also many special events and exhibitions happening, so you’ll get to experience the city at its vibrant best. These museums bring together the best of both worlds, making them some of the best museums in Dubai.
Trust me, visiting these Historic and Contemporary Museums in Dubai will make your trip unforgettable.
- Al Shindagha Museum
- Etihad Museum in Dubai
- Saruq Al-Hadid Museum
- Coffee Museum
- Bait Al Banat Women's Museum
- Museum of the Future in Dubai
- Museum of Illusions
- World Selfie Museum
- OliOli Museum
- Madame Tussauds Dubai
Historic Museums: A Guide to the City's Heritage
Dubai is home to some incredible historic museums that give you a deeper understanding of the city’s rich heritage. These museums show how Dubai has evolved from a small fishing village to a vibrant present time city. Whether you are into ancient artefacts or in culture and traditions, these are the best places to visit in Dubai. Get ready to travel back in time and explore Dubai’s roots. From the Etihad Museum to the Saruq Al-Hadid Museum, Dubai has some of the best museums that highlight its journey. Here are the best historic museums in Dubai:
Al Shindagha Museum
Al Shindagha Museum is among those historic museums in Dubai that take you on a journey back to the heart of old Dubai. Located near the famous Creek, where the city was born, this museum highlights Dubai’s early years. It features an interesting multimedia experience, showing how the city grew from a small fishing and trading hub into the modern metropolis with sky-high towers like Burj Khalifa and Burj al Arab. You’ll also explore the Perfume House nearby, which reveals how scents played an important role in the region’s history. The museum gives you a unique glimpse into Dubai’s heritage and its transformation through time.
Location: Al Shindagha, Dubai Creek area
Opening Hours: Everyday, 10 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +971 4 515 5100
Entrance fee for Al Shindagha Museum:
- Online- AED 50
- Student Tickets- AED 20 (Age- 5-24)
- Group Discounts (5 or more- AED 40 per person
Nearest Metro Station: Al Ghubaiba Metro Station on the Green Line
Etihad Museum in Dubai
The Etihad Museum is one of the most significant museums in Dubai, offering visitors a chance to learn about the creation of the UAE. This is the very site where, on December 2, 1971, six emirates came together to form the United Arab Emirates. You will see artefacts in Dubai Museum that tell the story of the country’s formation. The striking architecture, with its seven columns representing the pens used to sign the agreement, makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the UAE’s history.
Location: 1 Jumeira St - Al Mina - Jumeirah 1 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Everyday, 10 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +971 800 33222
Entrance fee for Etihad Museum:
- Individual Tickets- AED 25
- Group of 5 or more- AED 20 Per Person
- Students Aged 5-24- AED 10
- Children Aged 4 and below- Free
Nearest Metro Station: Emirates Towers Metro Station and the Al Ghubaiba Metro Station
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Saruq Al-Hadid Museum
For those interested in ancient history, the Saruq Al-Hadid Museum is a gem. This museum displays artefacts from a site that dates back nearly 3,000 years. The site, discovered by Dubai’s ruler, holds the remains of an Iron Age settlement, revealing a lot about the skills of ancient metalworkers. With fine examples of metal tools, weapons, and jewelry, the museum is perfect for anyone fascinated by the antique museum in Dubai experience. It gives you an insight into life long before the modern era.
Location: Al Shindagha Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai – Dubai
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday- 7:30 am - 7 pm
- Friday- 9 am - 5 pm
- Saturday- Closed
- Sunday- 9 am - 5 pm
Phone: +971 4 359 5612
Entrance fee for Saruq Al-Hadid Museum:
- Individual Tickets- AED 20
- Child (aged seven to 12) - AED 10 Per Person
- Senior Citizens over 60 and children (6 Years and Below- Free
Nearest Metro Station: Al Ghubaiba metro station
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Coffee Museum
Such museums in Dubai are unique spots dedicated to the fascinating history of coffee. The museum takes you through the origins of the drink, from ancient times to its importance in the Arab world. You’ll discover different coffee brewing methods from around the world and even enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee at their lounge. I bet you, you won't have tasted such authentic coffee in any cafes in Dubai. This museum in Dubai is a must-visit for coffee lovers and anyone curious about the rich culture and history surrounding this globally loved beverage.
Location: Historical Neighborhood, Bastakiya, Villa 44 - Al Hisn St - Al Fahidi - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Everyday, 9 AM to 5 PM
Phone: +971 4 353 8777
Entrance fee for Coffee Museum:
- Individual Tickets- AED 10
- Child (aged 8 and below) - Free
Nearest Metro Station: Al Fahidi Station and Al Ghubaiba Station
Bait Al Banat Women's Museum
Located in Deira, the Women’s Museum celebrates the role of women in Dubai’s history. It showcases the stories of influential Emirati women who have helped shape the UAE’s culture and society. Through exhibitions and stories, visitors get to explore the challenges and achievements of these women. It’s a place where you can learn about the incredible women behind Dubai’s rise, inspiring everyone who walks through its doors.
Location: Al Sabkha, Gold Souq, Near Al Khor St, Deira, Dubai
Opening Hours:
- Saturday to Thursday- 10 AM to 6 PM
- Friday- Closed
Phone: +971 4 234 2342
Entrance fee for Bait Al Banat Women's Museum: AED 20 Per Person
Nearest Metro Station: Green Line to Gold Souk Station (then 10 min walk)
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Contemporary Museums: Dive into Art and Innovation
Dubai is also home to a number of contemporary museums that explore modern culture, technology, and art. These museums give you a sneak peek into Dubai’s future, showcasing cutting-edge innovation, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences. From futuristic technology to mind-bending illusions, there’s a contemporary museum to satisfy your curiosity and leave you amazed. So, whether you’re into science, art, or just want a fun experience, these museums have something exciting waiting for you.
Museum of the Future in Dubai
The Future Museum Dubai is a new museum in Dubai dedicated to the future like no other. Opened in February 2022, it focuses on how the world might look in the coming decades. The museum blends immersive theatre, high-tech exhibitions, and themed attractions that make you feel like you're stepping into another world. Whether you’re interested in new technologies or future innovations, this museum offers a glimpse into the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. It’s one of the best museums in Dubai, especially for anyone interested in the world of tomorrow.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Centre - Trade Centre 2 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Everyday- 9:30 am to 9 pm, Last Entry- 7 pm
Phone: +971 800 2071
Entrance fee for Museum of the Future:
- Adult- AED 145 Per Person
- Children under 3 and Emirati senior citizen- Free
5 Chapters of Future Museum Dubai-
- OSS Hope
- The Heal Institute
- Al Waha
- Tomorrow Today
- Future Heroes
Nearest Metro Station: From Red Line to Emirates Towers stop
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Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions in Dubai is perfect for anyone who loves a good challenge for the senses. With over 60 optical illusions and immersive installations, this museum will make you rethink your perceptions. From twisting rooms to impossible shapes, you’ll find yourself questioning what’s real and what’s not in this illusion museum in Dubai. It’s a fun and educational experience that’s perfect for families or anyone looking to have a little fun while learning about the wonders of perception.
Location: Bld. 17, Heritage Area, Al Seef Dubai, United Arab Emirate
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday, Saturday, Sunday (and public holidays): 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Phone: +971 4 357 3999
Entrance fee for Museum of Illusion:
- Adult- AED 80
- Student and Senior citizens- AED 70
- Family (2 adults + 2 children)- AED 225
- Family & Friends (5 tickets – adults or children)- AED 320
- Children Ages 5-15 years- AED 60
- Children under the age of 5- Free
Nearest Metro Station: Al Fahidi and BurJuman Metro Stations
3D World Selfie Museum
For those who love taking pictures, the 3D World Selfie Museum, also known as the 3D art museum in Dubai, offers a unique and fun experience. It’s the largest of its kind, with 185 pieces of interactive art that turn you into part of the scene. From battling with lightsabers to stepping into Alice’s Wonderland, this museum is full of incredible, photo-ready moments. Each piece is hand-painted, creating mind-blowing illusions that make for unforgettable photos at one of the best museums in Dubai. Perfect for Instagram lovers or anyone looking for a bit of fun.
Location: Behind Mashreq Bank - Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Quoz - Al Quoz 4 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: Everyday, 10 am to 8 pm, Last Admissiom- 7 pm
Phone: +971 50 987 6511
Entrance fee for 3D World Selfie Museum:
- Adult: AED 89
- Child (3–11 years): AED 65
Nearest Metro Station: Al Safa, 5 mins walk
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OliOli Museum
OliOli is an interactive play museum in Al Quoz, designed specifically for kids aged two to 11. With eight galleries and 45 hands-on exhibits, this famous museum in Dubai provides a playful learning experience that encourages imagination. Inspired by global educators and artists, OliOli combines art, science, and play in a way that helps children explore and discover. Positioned alongside one of the best malls in Dubai, the museum offers a unique experience where children can develop their creativity and critical thinking all while parents are indulging in shopping at Oasis Mall.
Location: 62 4 A St, Next to Oasis Mall, Al Quoz 1 - Dubai
Opening Hours:
- Monday: 11am – 6pm
- Tuesday: 1pm – 6pm
- Wednesday and Thursday: 9am – 6pm
- Friday and Sunday: 9am – 7pm
- Saturday: 9am – 8pm
Phone: +971 4 702 7300
Entrance fee for OliOli Museum:
- 2 Hours General Admission- AED 69
- Toddler (12 to 23 months) and one adult: AED69
- Child (2 to 16 years) and one adult: AED139
Nearest Metro Station: Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station
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Madame Tussauds Dubai
Madame Tussauds Dubai offers a chance to meet your favourite stars, but with a twist – they’re in wax! This famous wax museum in Dubai lets you get up close with over 60 international and regional celebrities. From football stars like Cristiano Ronaldo to Bollywood icons like Shah Rukh Khan, you can take selfies and feel like you're rubbing elbows with the famous. Located at Bluewaters Dubai, it’s a perfect stop for anyone looking to meet their idols. So, for people like you, snapping some amazing photos and admiring your favorites are going to be one of the best things to do in Dubai.
Location: Bluewaters Mall - Bluewaters Island - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours: 10:30 am to 7:30 pm
Phone: +971 4 873 3042
Entrance fee for Madame Tussauds Dubai:
- Standard Admission Ticket: AED 130
- Exclusive Fame Experience: AED 275
- UAE Resident: AED 115
- Family Ticket: AED 440
- Entry + Spider-Man Combo: Online from AED 210
- Madame Tussauds & illusion city Combo: Online from AED 175
Nearest Metro Station:
- DMCC Metro Station (2 km away)
- Sobha Realty Metro Station (2.6 km away)
- Ibn Battuta Metro Station (3.7 km away)
- Gardens Metro Station (4.2 km away)
To wrap it up, the museums in Dubai offer a fascinating mix of culture, history, and innovation that will enhance your trip to this vibrant city. From learning about Dubai’s rich heritage at the Dubai Museum to experiencing the cutting-edge exhibits at the Museum of the Future, you’ll discover a side of Dubai that goes beyond the skyscrapers and shopping malls. For an unforgettable experience, be sure to include these museums in your Dubai tour packages. Exploring these cultural wonders will give you a deeper appreciation of the city and its amazing transformation.
Museums in Dubai - FAQs
The best time to visit museums in Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March. This is when the weather is pleasant, making it easier to explore both indoor and outdoor museums without feeling too hot.
Yes, there are a few free museums in Dubai. For example, the Al Shindagha Museum and the Coffee Museum offer free entry or have no entry fees for certain parts of the museum. It's always a good idea to check their website or social media for updates.
The Museum of the Future is a unique museum that explores ideas, innovations, and technologies that could shape the future. It’s an interactive, immersive experience, where you can engage with futuristic exhibits and prototypes that focus on societal and technological advancements.
The Etihad Museum is located in Jumeirah 1, near Union House, which is a historic site where the UAE's founding agreement was signed. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the UAE's formation.
At the Museum of Illusions, you’ll experience over 60 optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and immersive installations that play tricks on your senses. It’s a fun, family-friendly museum where visitors can enjoy and learn about the science behind visual perception.
Most museums in Dubai allow photography, but it’s always a good idea to check the museum's rules before taking any photos. Some museums may have restrictions in certain sections, especially if the exhibits are delicate or have copyright restrictions.
Yes! Madame Tussauds Dubai is definitely worth a visit, especially if you're a fan of celebrities. It features lifelike wax figures of famous personalities from around the world, including Bollywood stars, sports icons, and global superstars.
The Saruq Al-Hadid Museum is dedicated to the ancient Iron Age and showcases artefacts discovered in the Rub Al Khali desert. It gives a fascinating glimpse into Dubai’s ancient past, especially the metalworking techniques used by early civilizations in the region.
Dubai is home to over 60 museums. These range from historical museums like the Dubai Museum to more contemporary experiences such as the Museum of Illusions and the Museum of the Future. Each one offers something unique, whether it's art, history, technology, or fun!
The Museum of the Future was designed by the Dubai-based architect Shaun Killa and engineered by Buro Happold and founded by Dubai Future Foundation. It was created as a part of the Dubai Future Foundation's efforts to bring forward-thinking technology and ideas to the city.
