Dubai’s Coins Museum sits in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, in a traditional Arabian building made with coral, stone, plaster, sandalwood and palm materials. Inside, more than 470 coins trace currency in the Middle East and the UAE from the 7th century onward, including Arab-Sasanian and Abbasid-era examples. The themed rooms explain how coins were made and how regional money connects with systems in India and the former British Empire. Interactive magnifying screens let you inspect a coin’s details. Allow time to explore both floors; the upper floor is reached by a narrow staircase.
Coins from across the region
The museum’s collection spans different periods in Middle Eastern and UAE history. More than 470 rare coins include examples dating to the 7th century, with displays covering the Arab-Sasanian period and the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates.
Later rooms take in coins minted in places including Egypt, the Levant, Turkey, North Africa, Andalusia, Iraq and the Arabian Peninsula. Together, the exhibits show how currency used in the region connects with monetary systems in India and the former British Empire.
How to explore the collection
The coins are arranged in themed rooms, with displays focused on particular historical periods or locations. Explanatory information accompanies the objects, including their dates and materials. Interactive magnifying screens let you look more closely at a coin’s size, shape and history.
Give yourself time to move through the rooms on both floors. A visit has been reported to take about 25 minutes, though you may want longer to read the displays and use the screens.
The historic building
The museum is housed in a traditional Arabian building in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Its construction uses coral, stone, plaster, sandalwood and palm materials, offering a glimpse of traditional building methods in this part of Dubai.
The museum spans two floors. The first floor is wheelchair accessible, but a narrow staircase leads to the second, which may limit access for wheelchair users.
FAQ
Where is the Coins Museum in Dubai?
It is in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai.
Is admission to the Coins Museum free?
Visitor information describes admission as free. Check the official Dubai Culture website for current details.
How long does a visit take?
One visitor reported spending about 25 minutes. Allow more time if you plan to examine the displays and interactive screens closely.
Is the Coins Museum wheelchair accessible?
The first floor is accessible, but the second floor is reached by a narrow staircase.
