OVERVIEW
Sharjah has countless museums and heritage sites where you can explore the region’s history. One of the most prominent cultural sites is Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi located in the Kalba region. Let’s take a look at what this historical attraction in Sharjah offers. Administered by Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi, a village from Kalba, the house was built between 1898 and 1901. It is divided into eastern and western parts. The eastern part includes Access, Majlis, Morabba’a, a defensive barrage and its shooting spaces (Mazaghil), and an internal Majlis facing the coast. This section, separated from the other by the central wall, is designed to accommodate men and visitors while the western section has accommodations and facilities dedicated to women, children, and staff.
In December 1999, the house was opened as a museum. Its heritage collections include Sheikh Saeed’s room, children’s room, children’s living room, agricultural room, room for old statues and monuments in living rooms and kitchen. One site has been dedicated to the discovery of fossils found in the Eastern region where Sharjah is practiced. In the other two rooms there are displays of pottery, glass, metal art, etc. Originally built by Sheikh Saeed in the late 19th century, coastal retreat was restored and opened as a museum in 1999. With carved wooden doors and decorative stucco, it is one of the most beautiful museums in the UAE. Containing barjeel (wind towers) and a central courtyard, the attraction gives a glimpse of what life was like more than a hundred years ago. The eastern part includes the majlis (residence hall) that was once used to receive male guests, while the western section was built as a residence.
BRIEF HISTORY
In the 19th century, the building served as a seaside resort for Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi, Wali of Kalba and his family. This magnificent structure was built between 1898 and 1901 and features traditional Arabian architecture with wind channels and open courtyards. The building is located in the Kalba region of Sharjah on the east coast of the Arabian Gulf.In 1999, the royal residence was opened as a museum. It contains many important Muslim collections that capture the cultural significance.
MUSEUM ARCHITECTURE
If you are planning a visit to Sharjah, don’t forget to take a tour of the Bait Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi Museum. The beautiful architecture is an example of Emirati architectural styles. The building has a spacious yard and open rooms. It consists of two main parts, which are separated by a wall. The eastern part of the building includes a large entrance, Morabba’a, Al Majlis and a special type of secret curtains and Mazaqhel, a traditional design with separate holes to preserve the sanctity of private areas while allowing residents to take a look at what is happening outside.Outside Al Majlis overlooks the Arabian Gulf which offers spectacular views of the sea. This section is dedicated to both tourists and men. The western part of the building includes the residence of the Sheikh family.
RICH CULTURE AND HISTORY
The museum has several exhibitions with paintings, art objects and pottery from ancient times. There is a museum treasure collection featuring Sheikh Saeed’s room, agricultural space and children’s rooms. In one room, there is a large collection of old photographs and monuments.The two rooms are dedicated to the art of metal, glass and pottery. There is also a specific archaeological site from the Eastern Sharjah region.
The ancient heritage of the Emirati and the Islamic collection> If you are visiting the East Coast, be sure to add the Bait Sheikh Saeed Museum to your list. This house, renovated and reopened to the community, takes you on an exciting journey of the past to explore the deep traditions and civilization of the ancestors. The pride of a beautiful beachfront setting, a peaceful beach with its glorious sandy beaches, magnificent mountains, and vast green plains, and splendid gardens around, all add to the unique beauty of the house. Its interior is no less spectacular than its location, as it reflects the collections that encompass the UAE heritage.
The house was built between 1898 and 1901 by skilled and skilled local builders at the time. It contains a beautiful traditional style and consists of two sections, east and west. The eastern part includes the entrance, Al Majlis, Morabba’a and a protective “curtain” with “Mazaqhel” (a cloth with separate holes). The outside Majlis is facing the beach, and is devoted to men and tourists. The western part includes family units. The two parts are separated by a wall.
LOCATION
The Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi Museum is located in Kalba near Sharjah.
HOW TO GET
Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi is located in Kalba on the east coast, near Corniche at the end of the park, towards Al Hisn or Kalba Fort. If you are from Sharjah, take the E88 to Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Street as you head towards E11. Continue driving on the E88 and take the Sharjah Kalba Road until you reach the E99 leading to the Kalba Corniche.
CONTACT
For any questions, please contact management at +971-9-277-4442. If you are in Kalba after observing the Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Qasimi, go to the Kalba Bird of Prey Center to witness the rare bird birds. You can also visit Al Ghayl Fort near the Bird of Prey Center. For more heritage sites and deserts, sacrifices visit the Mleiha Archaeological Center in Sharjah. The center offers many expeditions and excursions where history lovers can discover ancient tombs, ruins, and fascinating rock formations.
