Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif, a hidden gem right in the heart of Dubai

Would you have suspected a historical building just a few steps away from busy Jumeirah roads? A garden with basil, palm trees and traditional irrigation channels? 

Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif is all these, and much more. Built in 1955 as a summer residence for Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and his family, this two-storey building was originally far away from the city, close to a small fishing village on the Jumeirah coast.

It was renovated in 1994, and a few items from everyday life can be seen in the two rooms open for visitors.

The main room has been adorned with mattresses, cushions and carpets. Many windows allow a natural cooling system to let the air in.

The terrace is equally breezy and was once used for open air sleeping and to dry dates.

Indeed, the Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif was part of a date plantation, which it still overlooks.

Parts of an old Aflaj traditional irrigation system are still in place.

Isn't it beautiful to watch the water flow by?

A paved walkway leads through the complex, and it's ideal for kids to play.

Several coffee shops and eateries have opened in the garden, among them Hide Out.

While not exactly a dirham stretcher, I still consider this as being a good deal- I grab a coffee and sit down while my kids whizz around, playing in the garden. That's money much better invested than a loud play area or video games imho!

We just love this place. There should be more of them but I'm grateful to Dubai for preserving at least one on this side of town!

Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif is free to visit, and open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM.

Find the Google maps location here.