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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