In a Lecture Predented by the National Library and Archives,
Dubai and Its Palace and Towers… From Roots to Global Prominence

As part of its cultural season, the National Library and Archives (NLA) organized a virtual lecture on Dubai palace and towers, highlighting the historical roots of the Emirate of Dubai, which has since evolved into a global city. The lecture shed light on Dubai’s remarkable journey of progress and prosperity within a short span of time—an impressive transformation for all who contemplate it.
The lecture, delivered by Mr. Saeed Khamis Al Suwaidi, Research Expert at the NLA, began by exploring Dubai in 1822. when the city was enclosed by a short wall made of gravel and clay, fortified with towers for protection. The wall surrounded the city from all directions except the north, which opened onto the Creek.
The lecturer highlighted Al-Neif Tower, notable for its elevated position above the water, exposing the area from all directions. The tower was located near the British Bank and offered a clear view of the creek extending to its far end.
The second landmark was Murabba‘at Al Qurayshat, also known as Murabba‘at Al Niyaf, followed by the third landmark, Burj Al Uqaydat, named after the Al Uqayda family of Al Bu Falasah tribe. This tower overlooked the southern area and was used to guard palm groves and water wells. From these landmarks, the speaker transitioned to Al Hamriyah, an area named after a variety of palm trees known as Al Himri.
The main landmark discussed was Dubai Palace, which, according to the lecturer’s sources, may have been a separate structure from Al Fahidi Fort. It was described by M. Hutton as a square-shaped fort with a dilapidated tower at one of its corners.
The central landmark, however, was Dubai Palace, which, according to the lecturer’s sources, may have been a different structure from Al Fahidi Fort. Engineer Hutton described it as a square-shaped fortress with a deteriorating tower at one corner.
Al Suwaidi noted that in 1841, when a fever epidemic swept the area, residents were compelled to move outside the walls of Dubai for the purpose of isolation and to prevent the spread of the disease. He further mentioned that Al Fahidi Fort was built to the north of Dubai Palace during the reign of Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum (1859–1886), where he and his descendants resided thereafter.
Later, Al Fahidi Fort was repurposed as a prison to discipline those who broke customs and laws after the ruling family moved to Al Shindagha. In 1971, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed converted it into a museum.
It is noteworthy that the lecturer based his presentation on several sources, foremost among them a sketch by Lieutenant Robert Cogan depicting the city of Dubai, its palm groves, Al Ras, and Al Shindagha. However, in 1829 the city underwent a restoration of its entire wall, towers, and palace.