Dating from the late 1800s, Sheikh Saeed House was built in a commanding position near the sea so the Ruler could observe shipping activity from its balconies.

Sheikh Saeed House Dubai stands along the famous Creek of Bur Dubai. It was built in 1896 and was the residence of Shaikh Saeed Al Maktoum, who resided there until his death in 1958.

Sheikh Saeed House Dubai was built using traditional methods, using coral quarried in the Gulf that was subsequently coated with lime and plaster, insulators that along with the wind tower keep the house cool and comfortable. An exhibition of photographs documents Dubai's history, and shows just how quickly the city evolved from a sleepy pearling town into a world-class metropolis.

Next door, the Heritage and Diving Villages have displays on pearl diving and dhow building, two of old Dubai's economic mainstays. Another area re-creates traditional Bedouin and coastal village life, complete with barasti (Persian) homes, a traditional coffeehouse and a small souq where you can buy freshly made dosa (a flat, grilled bread). A museum with items from nearby archaeological sites is also interesting.