Free Emirati Heritage Workshops in Dubai: Experience Arabic Calligraphy, Coffee Making, Pottery, and More at Al Shindagha Museum Throughout May

Dubai is offering residents and visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Emirati culture through a series of free workshops at Al Shindagha Museum. These workshops, running throughout May, are designed to provide hands-on experiences that highlight the rich heritage of the UAE. Participants can engage in activities ranging from crafting Arabic calligraphy pens to learning the etiquette of serving Emirati coffee.

While attendance at the workshops is free, participants are required to purchase a museum entry ticket. This initiative aims to make Emirati heritage accessible to families, tourists, residents, and individuals with disabilities.

Arabic Calligraphy Workshop

The Arabic calligraphy workshop invites participants to explore the art of Arabic script. Attendees will have the opportunity to craft their own traditional reed pen and learn the fundamentals of calligraphy in an interactive session.

• When: Every Tuesday
• Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Location: Poetry House
• Duration: 45 to 60 minutes

Emirati Coffee Experience

This workshop focuses on the traditions and etiquette surrounding the serving of Emirati coffee, a key symbol of hospitality in UAE culture. Participants will learn how coffee is traditionally prepared and presented to guests.

• When: Daily
• Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Location: Visitor Centre
• Duration: 15 to 20 minutes

Traditional Emirati Cooking

For those interested in culinary traditions, the traditional Emirati cooking workshop features a live demonstration on how to prepare Batheetha, a traditional Emirati dessert.

• When: Every Monday
• Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Location: Traditional Food House
• Duration: 30 to 45 minutes

Talli Bracelet and Charm Workshop

Participants in this workshop will be introduced to Talli embroidery, a traditional Emirati handicraft. Attendees can create personalized bracelets or charms inspired by Emirati heritage.

• When: Every Saturday
• Time: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Location: Traditional Jewellery Section
• Duration: 15 to 20 minutes

Pottery Making Workshop

This workshop delves into the cultural significance of clay craftsmanship in the UAE. Participants will learn traditional pottery-making techniques and have the chance to create their own pottery pieces.

• When: Every weekend
• Time: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Location: Emerging City Section
• Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Capacity: Limited to 10 participants per day

Soap Making Workshop

In the soap-making workshop, participants will create naturally scented soaps using oud, rose, and herbs while learning about traditional Emirati wellness and self-care rituals.

• When: Every Sunday
• Time: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Location: Culture of the Sea Pavilion – No. 6
• Duration: 30 to 45 minutes

Perfume Making Workshop

Perfume holds a significant place in Emirati culture. This workshop explores the history and ingredients behind traditional UAE fragrances, offering practical experience in creating perfumes.

• When: Every Wednesday
• Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Location: Perfume House
• Duration: 20 to 30 minutes

Daily Guided Tours

Interactive guided tours are available across the museum’s heritage houses, led by cultural guides.

• When: Daily
• Time: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Location: All museum houses

Family Trails

Families visiting the museum can participate in interactive workbook-based trails that include puzzles, tasks, and challenges across selected museum houses.

• When: Every weekend
• Time: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Locations:
  • Dubai Creek: Birth of a City
  • Culture of the Sea Pavilion
• Duration: 15 to 20 minutes

Museum Ticket Pricing

Entry to the workshops is complimentary; however, visitors must purchase a museum ticket. Group bookings for five people are available for Dh40.

Museum Timings

Al Shindagha Museum operates daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with the last entry at 7:00 PM.

Location of Al Shindagha Museum

Situated in Dubai’s historic Al Shindagha neighborhood, the museum is a key cultural destination. It spans over 80 traditional houses and 22 pavilions, showcasing various aspects of Dubai’s heritage and evolution.

For those driving, take the D92 Khaleej Road and follow the signs for Shindagha Museum near the Infinity Bridge. Public parking is available along Al Khaleej Street. Alternatively, the Al Ghubaiba Metro station on the Green Line is a two-minute walk from the museum.

For more information, visit Emirates247.

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Published on 2026-05-10 07:11:00 • By the Editorial Desk