Museum of Illusions

Bur Dubai


Opened in September 2018, this museum is fast becoming a favourite for families and Instagram fans, with several of the 'illusions' frankly looking a lot more amusing through the viewfinder than the naked eye (think rotated rooms and 'head on a platter'). That said, the rooms of mirrors, distorted perspective and various other optical illusions are highly entertaining for kids. Avoid visiting at weekends, however, as visitors are restricted by number, and you may have to wait your turn.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Bur Dubai attractions

1. Al Seef

0.06 MILES

In the early 1900s this historical area was Dubai's trading hub, during a period when the pearl diving industry was being developed. Stretching some 1.8km…

2. National Bank of Dubai

0.44 MILES

In 2007 the National Bank of Dubai merged with Emirates Bank to form Emirates NBD, but its headquarters remains in this shimmering landmark overlooking…

4. Majlis Gallery

0.48 MILES

Dubai's oldest fine-art gallery was founded in 1989 by British expat Alison Collins and presents mainly paintings and sculpture by international artists…

5. Coffee Museum

0.48 MILES

This cute private museum in a historic Emirati home offers an aromatic bean-based journey around the world and back in time. Learn about the importance of…

6. Al Fahidi Historic District

0.51 MILES

Traffic fades to a quiet hum in the labyrinthine lanes of this nicely restored heritage area formerly known as the Bastakiya Quarter. Its narrow walking…

7. XVA Gallery

0.52 MILES

Tucked into the Al Fahidi Historic District since 2003, XVA has a knack for ferreting out top-notch up-and-comers from around the Middle East and India…

8. Alserkal Cultural Foundation

0.52 MILES

This nonprofit foundation runs the most dynamic cultural space in the Al Fahidi Historic District. Galleries showcasing traditional and cutting-edge works…