This
imposing building distinguished by
its four elegant wind-towers, stands
along the famous Creek of Bur Dubai.
It was built in 1896 and was the residence
of the Ruler. It takes its name from
Shaikh Saeed Al Maktoum, who resided
there until his death in 1958.
Originally
strategically situated at the mouth
of Dubai's lifeline, the Creek,
this carefully restored museum now
lies close to the Bur Dubai side
of the Shindagha Tunnel and next
to the Heritage and Diving Village.
Shaikh
Saeed House is built in the traditional
manner of the Gulf Coast, from coral
covered in lime and plaster. The
house has a large courtyard in the
style of residences of the olden
days. It is partly single, and partly
two-storied, comprising a large
number of rooms, verandas and bath
rooms, divided into independent
family units.
There
are two entrances to the building.
The main entrance is from the Creek
side, through a security yard, from
where is the entrance to the main
majlis and guest rooms. The yard
leads also to the main courtyard,
around which are distributed five
separate family units, each of which
consists of a veranda, majlis and
rooms. The second entrance is on
the rear side of the building, and
was probably reserved for family
members.
Dubai
Municipality appointed a specialized
Consultant to carry out a thorough
survey of the building and its deterioration,
and then plan its restoration. The
work was commenced in 1984, and
completed two years later using
traditional building materials and
techniques, and where necessary,
strengthening the structure with
modern materials.
Infinite
care was taken in the restoration
of the architectural elements of
the building. The restoration is
remarkable for its carved teak wood
doors and windows, architraves and
wooden lattice screens, and the
balustrades of railings. The pierced
gypsum ventilating screens have
floral and geometric designs, and
are set into the thick walls.
The
House is now converted into a Museum
of Historical Photographs and Documents
of the Emirate of Dubai and illuminated
at night with flood-lights; it stands
as a reminder of Dubai's rich architectural
heritage and culture.
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