A Brief History of Dubai

The present ruler of Dubai is H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum who is also the Vice – President of the federation of United Arab Emirates. Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, and is the second largest after Abu Dhabi. Dubai is also distinct from its other Emirate members in that oil revenues only make up 10% of its gross product. The rest of the revenue is made up from the Jebel Ali Free Zone and the fast rising tourism industry. The population of Dubai at the moments stands at about one and a half million and is projected to continue to rise.

Language and Religion

Arabic is the official language spoken in Dubai but English and Urdu is widely spoken. Islam is the official religion of all the emirate states. The population in Dubai is made up mostly of Sunnis, with minority groups such as Sikhs, Hindu's and Christians as well. Dubai is also the only Emirate State to have Hindu Temples and Sikh gurudwara.

Dubai National Museum

Dubai National Museum opened in 1971 on the 12th of May. The museum is located in the Al Fahidi Fort this is thought to be one of Dubai's oldest buildings. The fort was built in the year 1787 and was built as a sea defence fort. The fort has been modified slightly since its original build thanks to Sheikh Maktoum Bin Buti and most of his architectural features are still visible today. The museum is home to a collection of artefacts depicting social, economic and professional life during the last century. The museum has a fine collection also of pottery, stone, and metallic pieces as well as stone engravings some of these items date back till the first and second millennium.

The fort has been used for several purposes throughout its life, as well as being just a defence stronghold. Some of its other uses have been a seat of government, the ruler's residence, an ammunition store, and a jail. An interesting point about the construction of the fort is that the walls were built from coral and sea rubble and cemented together with lime. The ceiling's are made from palm fronds, mud and plaster. A huge iron studded door stands at the entrance and still today you can see the scars of battle on the walls and door of conflicts now past.

The museums main aim when first opened was to preserve records of the Emirates past traditional life that is fast changing today. Although many visitors today visit Dubai to see this modern city rising from the sands with all its glory, the past should be remembered also and a visit to the museum is strongly recommended.

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

This impressive distinguished building with its elegant wind-towers was built in 1896 and was home to the ruler. The name comes from Shaikh Saeed Al Maktoum who lived there until his death in 1958 the house sits on the creek of Bur Dubai. The house is built in a traditional fashion using coral and lime plaster. A large courtyard can be found inside which was the style at this time. The house has two entrances, one being from the creek and the second is on the rear side. It is believed that the second entrance was for family members only. The first entrance from the creek leads through a security yard and then onto a separate entrance to the guest area. Thanks to the Dubai Municipality they appointed a specialised consultant to carry out restoration work. The work began in 1984 and took two years to complete using traditional materials and crafts. The work carried out has been to the highest standard and the restoration of the wooden doors, windows and lattice screens are remarkable. The house today is a Museum of Historical photographs and documents to the history of Dubai and well worth visiting on your next stays in the Emirate's.

Heritage and Diving Village

The Heritage and Diving village gives you the chance to see local craftsmen displaying their art. Located in the Shindagha area this village was created to give tourists and locals a reminder of Dubai's history culture and lifestyle. The village focuses on Dubai's maritime past, and that includes pearl diving. This is one of the oldest professions in the region and can be traced back as far as seven thousand years. The divers use to operate for six months a year while the Gulf Seas were clear and safe between April and November. Over 330 dhows use to operate of the coast of Dubai at one time, however today this figure is extremely less. Also in the village there is a Bedouin tented village with ancient armoury pieces as well as storybook displays and ancient cooking utensils.