Off Road History Museum — Attraction in Al Madam

We went on February 21 (2020), and we found out that admission of AED 55 per person was being charged as of February 14, so this is a bit expensive for a family. They did not have a credit card machine, so be sure to have cash. The museum does have a website, but the website does not appear to be finished, so we didn't have much information before we arrived.

We could climb into the giant off-road model outside, and that was definitely fun. It's really the only thing at the museum that can be touched and experienced so far. Beyond that, there is an entrance gate to the main parking area, and that is where the tickets are sold. We also got a folded informational brochure that included a map of the exhibit areas and a list of the top ten exhibits.

The indoor part of the museum is in three sections: 1) Modified and "General" vehicles, 2) Military vehicles, 3) Historic vehicles. The buildings are huge and somewhat dimly lit, but the hundreds of exhibits can still be seen clearly. We were in these sections for over an hour, and including the outdoor entrance area, we were at the museum for about an hour and a half. The exhibits are all labeled with model name, place of origin and both specific date of manufacture and date range for the model. I was curious about the stories behind some of these vehicles, especially the modified examples, but we mostly didn't find that kind of information. For example, there is one that apparently can be converted to float in water somehow, but I could only guess how or why. In a few cases, there were very interesting videos showing the vehicles in actual use.

We were at the museum in the morning and found the indoor temperature to be very comfortable. It is also very clean, with smoking, food and beverages not permitted inside. A coffee shop has been built near the entrance, but it is not yet up and running, so be sure to plan on eating somewhere else for now. We decided to just go back to Al Ain for lunch because we didn't know what might be available nearby.

Overall, we enjoyed our visit. Sheikh Hamad clearly has a passion for off-road vehicles. I think that the main things we learned were that "if it doesn't have a solid front axle, then it's not a real off-road vehicle," and that there are a lot of off-road models that we had never...

The Off Road History Museum is located around 65 km east of Sharjah, near Al Madam, just off the E55 highway. It makes for an ideal day trip from Sharjah or Dubai and offers a unique glimpse into off-road vehicle history.

Spread across three massive warehouse-style halls, the museum features over 350 vehicles, ranging from early vintage models to heavily modified modern off-road machines. Visitors will find sections dedicated to military trucks, emergency vehicles, amphibious cars, dune buggies, and more. Some of the showstoppers include the world’s largest Willys Jeep and a towering white Hummer—perfect for photo opportunities.

Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours, although car enthusiasts can easily spend up to 3 hours exploring. The entry fee is AED 55 for adults, while children under 10 enter free.

One of the halls is air-conditioned for comfort, while the others may get warm during summer, making winter the ideal time to visit. The museum provides essential amenities like clean restrooms, ample parking, and a small café (Deer Café) where you can grab snacks and refreshments. Clear signage in English helps explain the history and features of many of the vehicles.

Visitor reviews often describe the museum as “a hidden gem” and “a must-visit for car lovers,” noting its wide selection and well-organized displays.

The Off Road History Museum offers an exciting and educational journey through decades of off-road innovation and culture. Whether you're an auto enthusiast, a family with kids, or simply curious, this museum delivers a surprising and rewarding experience in the heart of the...

The Off-Road History Museum, located in Al Madam, United Arab Emirates, is a vibrant tribute to the spirit of adventure and the evolution of off-roading. Founded by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, a renowned 14-time Middle East Rally Champion, the museum houses over 300 vehicles, offering a comprehensive look at the development of off-road technology and culture.

The museum's collection spans from the 1940s to the present, featuring iconic vintage Jeeps and Land Rovers that represent the dawn of off-roading. These early models highlight the rugged design and engineering that allowed vehicles to conquer unpaved terrains. Additionally, the museum showcases high-performance desert racers from famous rallies like the Dakar Rally, illustrating the technological advancements that have pushed the boundaries of off-road racing.

Military vehicles also play a significant role in the museum's exhibits, emphasizing the dual-purpose nature of off-road technology in both civilian and military contexts. The presence of cultural artifacts, including maps, photographs, and trophies, provides a richer understanding of the global impact and cultural significance of off-roading.

Off-roading is more than a sport in the UAE; it is a cultural cornerstone symbolizing freedom, resilience, and adventure. The museum captures this ethos, serving as a cultural repository and an educational hub. Through guided tours and interactive displays, visitors gain insights into the technical aspects and historical significance of off-roading, inspiring new generations of enthusiasts...