Inside a restored historic mansion in Dubai’s Al Shindagha district, the Perfume House traces the history of scent-making across the Arabian Peninsula. Its exhibits use fragrance as well as objects and explanations, so you can smell traditional ingredients such as oud and rose oil while learning how they are used. The museum also explores the place of perfume in Emirati culture. It is near the House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, making it a natural stop while exploring Al Shindagha.
A mansion devoted to perfume
The Perfume House is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project. The waterfront building was once the home of a Dubai sheikha who loved perfume. Its exhibits use scent to introduce the history and development of perfume-making on the Arabian Peninsula.
The museum is near the House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum in Al Shindagha’s historic district. Its restored mansion setting connects the subject of fragrance with the area’s historic homes.
Scents and traditional methods
The exhibits are designed to be experienced through smell as well as sight. You can encounter traditional incense blends and ingredients such as oud and rose oil, and learn about long-established Arabic perfume-making methods.
Perfume is presented as part of Emirati cultural heritage, with explanations of fragrance’s local significance. Interactive displays help show how perfumes are made. A personalized workshop is another way to engage with the subject, if one is available during your visit.
FAQ
What can you see at the Perfume House?
The museum explores perfume-making on the Arabian Peninsula through interactive, scent-based exhibits. It includes traditional incense blends and ingredients such as oud and rose oil.
Is the Perfume House interactive?
Yes. Displays invite you to smell different fragrances and learn about traditional perfume-making methods.
Does your ticket include access to another museum?
Keep your entry ticket: it gives you free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House.
