Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa

Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa is an important landmark in Abu Dhabi’s history. As a component of the World Heritage Cultural Sites of Al Ain, the house offers valuable insights into the changing social, historical and architectural traditions of the nation during the 1950s and 1960s.

This historic home was built in 1958 for the late Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan (1909-1979), the father-in-law of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa was also the grandfather of the current President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The house was built at the height of the UAE’s Transition Period (1930s-1960s), a time in which hybrid architectural styles evolved as a result of the economic impact of oil exploration and discovery. A symbol of a changing way of life, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa is an example of the fusion of traditional architectural styles with modern building materials and techniques. While the domestic character of Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa was different from the traditional forts used as residences of tribal leaders, it retained the time-honoured tradition of a leader opening up his home to the community.

This home was once an eminent landmark and focal point for the community of Al Ain, as the late Sheikh Mohammed was a highly esteemed figure. Now conserved, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa resumes its place as a vibrant hub for city residents by opening its doors as a community centre.

Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa extends a warm invitation to all to explore, share and participate in the revitalisation of this historic home and community space.

EXHIBITION

The permanent exhibition at Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa gives an overview on the history of both the home itself and of the wider World Heritage property of the Cultural Sites of Al Ain.

With a focus on Al Ain during the Transition Period, visitors to the exhibition will learn not only about the evolution of the house itself but also about the transformation of the surrounding city over the last 60 years.

The interactive experience “Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan: Life and Legacy” provides an introduction to the man and his story, and honours Sheikh Mohammed’s position as an important member of the Al Nahyan family, the long-time rulers of Abu Dhabi. Visitors can enjoy a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of Sheikh Mohammed, learning about his interests and occupations, from agriculture and the management of palm trees to the art of falconry.

Passing through the exhibition’s displays, visitors will hear different musical tracks by performers such as the poet Osha Al Suwaidi “Fatat Al Arab”, Ali bin Rogah and Umm Kulthum, artists popular at the time of the house’s construction. Also available to listen to are oral histories from elderly Al Ain residents, who recount their experiences of living and working in the city through the decades.

LOCATION AND HOURS OF OPERATIONS
Entry to the exhibition, and to all elements of Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa, is free of charge.
Daily Opening hours 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
For enquiries, please contact us on
+971 3 711 8335 or Contactus@baitmohammedbinkhalifa.ae

Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa, Al Mu’tarid area, Zayed bin Sultan Street, Al Ain