Dubai is an incredible place and somewhere we had visited in transit but never escaped the airport. With its skyline of innovative architecture and a push toward the future, it is a city that never fails to amaze. Among its many attractions, the Future Museum stands out — not just for its incredible design but for the way it immerses you in the possibilities of tomorrow.
During our recent stay in Dubai, we took a break from the usual outdoor adventures and rock climbing and stepped into this extraordinary space, and here’s what we discovered.
An Architectural Wonder
The first thing that strikes you about the Future Museum is its structure. We drove past it a couple of times on our way to and from The Palm and you can't miss it. Its curved, almost otherworldly shape is unlike anything I’ve seen before. The building itself feels like a glimpse into the future — a fitting entrance to what lies inside.
Exploring the Future
Inside, the museum is a journey through what might be. There are four sections to move through, as well as a viewing deck! The first is a space shuttle experience which is guided. Then you move through three other sections self-paced and finally, if you have children aged 5 and above there's an additional section at the end to explore.
One of the most confronting sections was where they showcase over 2,500 preserved species, a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against extinction. It’s a sobering thought, but one that underscores the urgency of innovation.
On the other hand, the section dedicated to the Amazon was incredibly inspiring. Here, they’re modeling elements of the forest, working on producing wind and fire-resistant trees among other things — concepts I hadn’t even considered possible. It’s fascinating to think about how these innovations could reshape our world.
A Family-Friendly Experience — Mostly
While the museum is incredibly family-friendly, it’s probably best suited for older children. Our toddler didn’t join us for this visit, and I didn’t spot many young children there. However, there is an entire floor, “Little Futures,” dedicated to kids aged 5 and above, so if you have children in that age group, they’ll have plenty to explore.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning a visit, a few tips will make your experience smoother:
Book Your Tickets Early: Even in the low season, we found that same-day tickets were sold out. We booked for the following morning, and I’d highly recommend visiting as soon as the museum opens at 9 AM. We arrived at 9:30 and had a short wait, but by the time we left around 11, the lines were much longer.
Cost and Convenience: Tickets were about $65 per person, which we booked through our hotel. I also searched online at Viator and there were multiple providers with varying prices, starting from around $65. Make sure you don't overpay, this is a key tourist destination. Taxis are a convenient option to get there, but be sure to opt for a government taxi to avoid higher fees from private cars.
Take Your Time: The museum is divided into guided and self-paced sections. After being led through the first space shuttle experience, you can explore the other areas at your own pace. I particularly recommend spending some time in the meditation section, which many visitors seemed to rush through. It’s a calming space that offers a chance to reflect on all the futuristic concepts you’ve just absorbed.
Reflecting on the Experience
Visiting the Future Museum felt like stepping into the years to come. The section that shows Dubai in 2071 was particularly striking. Seeing the city’s vision for the future—air taxis, drone transportation, and more—made me think about the world my daughter will grow up in. It’s a reminder that the future isn’t as far away as it sometimes seems.
Museums aren’t usually at the top of our list when we travel, but with the extreme August heat and no rock climbing opportunities (unless you count sand dunes!), this was the perfect indoor adventure.
Dubai, in general, left a lasting impression on us with its sophistication, innovation, and incredibly friendly people. We were only there for five days, mainly to adjust to the time zone before heading back to Australia, but it was a visit that left us wanting more. Next time, we’d love to return when it’s cooler, explore more outside the city, and perhaps even make a trip to Abu Dhabi.
For more information on us, our travel to Dubai and our lives head over to our Instagram! @the.froth.family.
Til next time,
R
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