The Women’s Museum is located in Deira, by the Gold Souq The house itself called Bait al Banat, which translates to The Girls House. It was built in the 1950s and was originally a residential home. The Women's Museum is a national archive and documentation center. It is dedicated to exploring different aspects of the lives of Emirati women - professional, personal, past and present. This includes works of art by various women Emirati artists and photographs showing the contributions of Emirati women. The women's museum is an example of their Emirati jewelry and clothing, as well as an exploration of how past and present rulers have influenced the role of women in the UAE.
This project was established by an Emirati woman, Professor Rafia Ghubash. In 1992, she received her PhD in epidemiological psychiatry from London University. Professor Ghubash - President of the Arab Network for Women in Science and Technology and now Director of the Women's Museum. The aim of the Women's Museum Dubai is to introduce visitors to different aspects of the daily lives of women in the UAE.
The museum has been painting brilliant portraits of Emirati women for years, making visitors aware of the incredible contributions they have made to the community. Some of the themes explored include lifestyle, history, art, and literature. Exhibitions and galleries celebrate their many achievements in various areas of life, Business, art, education, politics, and our society as a whole.
Exhibitions in Women Museum
Bait al Banat Gallery- 1
It showcases the artwork of masters, young people and budding artisans. Women artists from across the country hold temporary exhibitions showcasing their work.
Bait al Banat Gallery- 2
The second gallery serves as a hub for collaborations of galleries, museums, art organizations and artists from around the world. It celebrates the contributions of the first president of the UAE, the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to women’s empowerment.
Curated by Prof. Rafia Ghubash,the gallery comprises these sections:
- The first section consists of artwork with quotes highlighting H.H Sheikh Zayed’s role in empowering women.
- There is an exhibit of photographs and videos of different women’s festivals and events.
- The third section is Jamal Abdul Rahim’s artwork that combines H.H Sheikh Zayed’s poetry with photographs creating 12 unique handcrafted prints.
Women’s Studies Centre
Located on the second floor of the museum, the Women's Studies Center is a research center with a document archive for women's studies in the UAE and the Arab world. A library and database have now been built in this section to enable access to a wider range of documentation.
Fatima Bint Al Zeina children's corner
This section of the Women's Museum is intended to accommodate young people interested in the arts and heritage.
Diwan Ousha Bint Khalifa Al Suwidi Room
The literary legacy of the famed poetess Ousha Bint Khalifa, commonly known as ‘The Girl of the Arabs,’ is showcased in this special museum hall. She was one of the leading Nabati practitioners in the UAE. This room tells the story of the poet through sounds and graphics. The exhibition connects the history of Ousha with the achievements of today's UAE women poets.
Umm Al Duwes Perfume & Gift Shop
The Women’s Museum is home to the Um Al Duwais Perfume and Gift Shop. Perfume is a very popular amongst women in the Arab World. perfume was a way for women to ‘decorate’ themselves without having to wear immodest clothes. Umm Al Duwes Perfume & Gift Shop allows visitors to purchase high quality traditional Arabian fragrances and oils, making it a souvenir you can enjoy.
The museum also has its own cafe. Banat Bu Ganem Cafe is actually a public place that connects the museum with the surrounding Deira community. In addition to traditional food and rich Arabian coffee, visitors can buy handicrafts, artwork and jewelry.
Location: Al Sabkha, Gold Souq, Near Al Khor St, Deira - Dubai - United Arab Emirates.
Visiting Hours: The Women’s Museum is open from Saturday to Thursday, from 10am to 7pm.
Entry Fee: A ticket to the Women’s Museum costs AED 20 per person.
How to Reach
The museum is located in old Gold Souq Deira, next to the fish market. It is about 550m away from the Al Ras Metro Station. Also, note that Gold Souk Bus Stop is a short walk from the Women’s Museum Dubai location.