The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding is a different experience in Dubai. If you want to know more about the people of Dubai, about religion, family, education and everyday life - then this is the place to go.
The centre was set up in 1998 with the aim of teaching foreign workers - known as expats - more about the traditions and culture of the UAE. The aim was to forge closer links between the Emirati population and those who come to live and work in the emirate for a few years.
Today, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding is also very popular with tourists who want to learn more about life in Dubai.
The centre is housed in a sand-coloured windmill house in Bastakiya in Bur Dubai, near Dubai Creek. Stepping into the space is like entering someone's home, which is exactly the idea.
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding - meals
You can choose the type of meal you want to eat during your visit - it determines the day and time. Prices vary depending on the meal.
Breakfast is served on Mondays and Wednesdays at 10.00, lunch is served from Sunday to Thursday at 13.00 and dinners are served on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 19.00. In addition, afternoon tea is offered on Tuesdays and Fridays and brunch on Saturdays.
Before and during your meal, you will talk as a group with a host or hostess about life in Dubai and the UAE. Feel free to ask questions about anything you have in mind, and the hosts will be happy to answer.
When Allt om Dubai attended lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, issues such as polygamy, girls' right to education, women's rights, democracy and the role of the police in Dubai were discussed. Big questions that got interesting answers.
Dubai can easily become a superficial destination. But if you combine shopping, skyscrapers and lazy hours in the sun lounger with a visit to the Centre for Cultural Understanding, you'll come home a little more knowledgeable and wiser.
Book a ticket to the Centre for Cultural Understanding
Places are limited and advance booking is recommended. You can do so the centre's website, but the booking system can be a little shaky.
You can also book through one of our partners.
At this link, and below, you can find tickets for the Centre for Cultural Understanding at Get Your Guide.
On this page you can book the corresponding tickets at Viator.
