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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