CASTLES DUBAI

Zabeel Palace is the official residence of the Al Maktoum ruling family and serves as the administrative headquarters of Dubai's royal government. Designed by architect Otto Bulart and completed in 1965, the palace integrates traditional Arabic and modern architectural styles with facades adorned with intricate geometric patterns, elegant arches, and distinctive high domes of Islamic design. Located in the Za'abeel district within walking distance of Zabeel Park, the palace complex showcases architectural sophistication. While the palace itself is not open to the public for interior tours, visitors can view its impressive facade and surrounding gardens from a distance at no charge, and peacocks that wander freely on the grounds often welcome photographic attention.

Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1787, is the oldest existing building in Dubai and now houses the Dubai Museum, which opened to the public in 1971 to showcase the traditional way of life in the emirate. The square-shaped fort features towers on three corners and was constructed using coral rock and mortar in several phases, with distinctive architectural elements including two cannons guarding the main eastern gate and a tall traditional dhow displayed in the central courtyard. The museum exhibits span both external displays and interior halls built within the fort's walls and underground galleries, featuring life-size dioramas depicting historical daily life, including recreated souks, traditional Bedouin tents, and ancient trading vessels. With approximately one million visitors annually in recent years, the museum offers comprehensive insights into Dubai's maritime heritage and pre-modern settlement history.