If you’re fascinated by the UAE’s cultural heritage, a visit to Ajman Museum is an absolute must. This landmark attraction, housed within an 18th-century fort, offers a vivid glimpse into the emirate’s traditional life, architecture, and maritime history.
Whether you’re a tourist, a resident, or a student of history, the museum invites you to step back in time and explore Ajman’s fascinating journey through history to the present day.
In this guide, you will find key information to help plan your visit to the Ajman Museum, including ticket prices, opening hours, exhibits, and tips on reaching the museum.
- Overview of Ajman Museum
- Location, contact details and opening hours
- Ajman Museum ticket prices
- How to reach Ajman Museum
- Ajman museum attractions and exhibits
- Ajman museum visitor tips
- Nearby attractions and things to do
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Overview of Ajman Museum
Located in the Al Bustan district at the heart of Ajman, Ajman Museum stands as a testament to the emirate’s deep historical roots. The museum is situated in a former ruler’s fort, built in the late 18th century, which served as both a residence and a defensive structure.
Today, the restored fort has become one of the most visited heritage attractions in the UAE, offering more than 20 themed galleries that depict the emirate’s development through artefacts, photographs, and life-size dioramas.
The museum’s exhibits are displayed in both Arabic and English, ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Each gallery offers insight into various aspects of Emirati life, including pearl diving, trade, traditional crafts, and early education.
Location, contact details and opening hours
Ajman museum is located in the Al Bustan area, on the east side of the central square. This location is easily accessible, as it is surrounded by equally fascinating places to visit in Ajman.
Opening hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 2:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Contact information
- Phone: +971 6 711 6675
- Email: Ajmanmuseum@ajmantourism.ae
Ajman Museum ticket prices
Visiting the Ajman Museum is not only culturally enriching but also budget-friendly. The Ajman Museum ticket price is among the most affordable in the UAE, encouraging families, students, and tourists to discover its treasures.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the museum entrance. Group visits and school tours are welcome, with staff available to guide large parties through key sections upon request.
- Adults: AED 5
- Families: AED 15 per family
- School students: AED 1
How to reach Ajman Museum
Located in Al Bustan, on the east side of Ajman’s central square, the museum is conveniently accessible by both private and public transport.
By car
If you’re driving from Dubai, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). The route is direct and well-signposted, with parking available near the museum.
By public transport
Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem are also readily available, making the trip convenient and quick.
For those relying on public transport, Bus line number E400 has a route passing by the following bus stops near the museum:
- 112 Bus Terminus
- Ajman Bus Terminal
- Bus Station Ajman Transport
Ajman museum attractions and exhibits
The museum’s extensive collection reflects the emirate’s evolution over centuries, from ancient civilisations to modern-day Ajman. Each gallery tells a different story, making it one of the most captivating museums in the UAE.
Archaeology gallery
This gallery features artefacts excavated from the Al Muwaihat archaeological site, including pottery, tools, and burial jewellery dating back to 3000 BC. These findings offer a fascinating window into the region’s earliest known civilisation.
Traditional Emirati life
Step into recreated scenes of daily life in old Ajman. You’ll find displays of folk costumes, traditional weaponry, pearl-diving tools, manuscripts, and household items. These exhibits reveal how Emiratis lived before the discovery of oil transformed the nation.
Model wooden dhows
Ajman’s long maritime history is celebrated through intricate models of traditional wooden dhows, highlighting the emirate’s shipbuilding expertise and seafaring legacy.
Historic fort structures
The museum itself is a historic exhibit. Explore the restored watchtowers, wind towers (barjeels), and central courtyard that once served as defensive features. The fort’s coral-stone architecture and carved wooden doors exemplify traditional Emirati craftsmanship.
Pearl industry & trade
A dedicated section showcases the tools and techniques once used in pearl diving, which played a significant role in shaping Ajman’s economy before oil exports. Visitors can see detailed models of divers and traders at work, along with artefacts used in the pearl trade.
Special features
Beyond its extensive displays, Ajman Museum offers several features that make it a memorable experience. Each corner of the museum tells a piece of Ajman’s story, creating a truly immersive journey through time.
- Over 20 themed galleries set around a large central courtyard
- Interactive exhibits that allow visitors to handle certain replicas and tools
- Bilingual signage in Arabic and English for inclusive learning
- Atmospheric lighting that highlights the fort’s unique textures and heritage design
Ajman museum visitor tips
Before you go, here are some practical tips to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable:
- Dress code: Modest attire is recommended—shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly for women. Comfortable footwear is essential as the floors are uneven in some areas.
- Best time to visit: The winter months (November to March) when the weather is pleasant for exploring, but the museum’s indoor galleries remain enjoyable year-round.
- Average duration: Expect to spend 45 to 90 minutes exploring, depending on your interest in history and photography.
- Family-friendly: The museum welcomes children and school groups, with discounted entry for students. Interactive exhibits help younger visitors engage with the history of the emirate.
Nearby attractions and things to do
The museum’s central location means you’re just minutes away from other notable attractions in Ajman. After exploring the fort, continue your cultural and leisure journey with these nearby sites:
- Corniche Ajman: A picturesque seaside promenade perfect for evening walks, dining, and watching sunsets over the Gulf.
- Gold Souq: Ideal for purchasing souvenirs, jewellery, and handmade crafts that reflect local artistry.
- Ajman Heritage District: Explore additional heritage sites and learn more about the emirate’s traditions and customs.
- Masfout Museum & Al Dhaid Fort: If you’re interested in extending your historical tour, these smaller museums nearby offer further insights into the UAE’s rural and mountain heritage.
Nearby Restaurants
If you want to grab a bite after visiting this lavish attraction. Then, explore some of the restaurants surrounding it. They are considered some of the best restaurants in Ajman, such as:
Abraj Sim Sim Restaurant
It is located in Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street, Al Owan, Al Nakhil 1
- Distance: 2 minutes away
- Rating: 4.7
- Opening hours:
- 11:00 AM – 2:30 AM (Saturday – Thursday)
- 11:00 AM – 12:30 AM (Friday)
- Contact Details: +971 50 889 6300
Kunjikka Restaurant
It is located in Al Bustan – Ajman
- Distance: 4 minutes away
- Rating: 4.2
- Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 12:30 AM
- Contact Details: +971 5 094 90903
Nearby Hotels
If you are looking for a hotel near the museum. Then you are in luck, as many hotels surround the museum. Additionally, they all offer excellent accommodations with numerous leisure facilities. Such as:
Emirates Plaza Hotel
It is located on Omar Bin Al Khattab Street, Al Nakheel 2
- Distance: 3 minutes away
- Hotel star rating: 4 stars
- Contact Details: +971 6 744 5777
Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel
It is located in Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Al Owan, Al Nakhil 2
- Distance: 3 minutes away
- Hotel star rating: 5 stars
- Contact Details: +971 6 701 8888
Al Rayan Hotel
It is located in 241 Abubaker Al Siddique Street, behind Kuwaiti Hospital
- Distance: 5 minutes away
- Hotel star rating: 3 stars
- Contact Details: +971 6 742 4333
Key takeaways
Ajman Museum is one of the UAE’s most remarkable cultural landmarks. Open every day of the week, it offers flexible visiting hours and affordable ticket prices, making it accessible to all. Visitors can explore ancient artefacts from 3000 BC, restored fort structures, and detailed exhibits depicting Emirati life, trade, and traditions.
Conveniently located in the Al Bustan district, near the Gold Souq and Corniche, the museum is easily accessible by car or public transport. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for an educational outing, or a tourist eager to experience authentic Emirati culture, Ajman Museum delivers a rewarding and memorable experience.
FAQs
The distance is approximately 50 minutes. This depends on traffic, method of transportation, and other factors.
The Al Nuaimi family rules Ajman, and this museum tells their stories of the development achieved in the emirate.
The fort is made up of a castle, two wind towers called Barjeels, and two watchtowers. All of which have been well-maintained to this day.
The museum operates from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday, and 2:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Fridays.
It’s located in Al Bustan district, near the Gold & Traditional Souqs, right in the heart of Ajman.
Yes, the museum is family-friendly, with discounted rates for students and interactive displays that appeal to younger visitors.
