Crossroad of Civilizations Museum (CCM) متحف معبر الحضارات‎ — Attraction in Dubai

This dusty museum has an authentic vibe tucked away in the buildings in the Shindagha area on Dubai Creek. I've visited many museums in the country and didn't see too many new things here, but there are some gems like an Armenian Bible and old drum map of pearl diving sites. I also enjoyed seeing the maps and connect the history, culture, and islamic heritage of the area to where the UAE is now, still as a crossroads in the Middle East. The entry cost is low and definitely worth a visit to peek into the galleries and see a bit of history. Note: There is a nice room dedicated to memorializing the holocaust - which is a beautiful way to reinforce that these things should "never happen again." However, in this time (May 2024),we found it to be a very difficult space to be in due to the continued similar atrocities in Palestine and had to exit. If this may be a difficult topic for you as well, I suggest skipping it and perhaps revisiting when we are not witnessing...

Highly recommend this museum for history lovers!! Only 25 AED per person and you get to explore 2 museums (3 buildings) with an extensive private collection of artifacts, old books/manuscripts, and weapons. Most descriptions have english translations (no audio guide/qr code scanning though) and are well written. Personal favorite galleries were the holocaust remembrance, palestine and the holy land, and pearl gallery. When we went there, it was a Sunday, there were only 2 other guests so it felt like a private visit which we really enjoyed. You are even encouraged to take photos. Overall, most of the museum was well curated (particularly for the regional treasures and interfaith pieces), informative, and surprising in the best way. Definitely worth the visit!! Also it was cold inside all the buildings so this is a great way to spend your time away from the heat and learn...

Nice little museum, 25Dhms per person, spend about an hour. Very friendly and helpful staff.

Some interesting displays - if a little eclectic - seems more a collection of the owner’s artefacts and interests. An encouraging exploration of interfaith engagement and harmony - an interesting, if somewhat oddly placed reflection on the holocaust, but a hopeful look at the positivity of working together to prevent further atrocity.

Interested to see the 16th Kaaba door-cover. Some great, historical manuscripts and folios, although I feel concern for the way they are conserved and presented - not sure about the longevity of these artefacts that should be protected for the cultural heritage of all.

If pressed for time, the Al Shindagha museum is probably a better option, but good to support this little...