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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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