Pakistani Family Preserves Dubai's Past in Home Museum

Aug 6, 2026

99 min

Aug 6, 2026 02:32

Dubai since the 1960s: How a Pakistani family preserved old bills, rental papers and rare photos in a home museum

## A Journey Through Time

In Dubai, a unique home museum curated by Shaukat Rana Muhammad Rafi offers a glimpse into the city's past. Since the 1960s, Rafi has meticulously preserved a collection of old bills, rental agreements, and rare photographs, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

## Family Legacy

Rafi's journey began when his father arrived in Dubai in 1966, followed by Rafi himself in 1968. His passion for history led him to document the city's transformation over the decades. His sons, Taimur Rana and Muhammad Asad, now help continue this legacy.

## From Cloth to Cameras

Initially involved in a cloth business, Rafi transitioned to photography, establishing a business in photographic imports and exports. His first trade license from 1976 remains a cherished artifact in his collection.

## Currency and Family History

Rafi's museum includes a collection of currencies used in the UAE before the 1960s, as well as personal family documents, such as his grandfather's employment letter from 1966 and his father's passport entry.

## Everyday Life in Old Dubai

The collection also features everyday items like electricity bills and phone records, offering insight into the cost of living and communication in the past. Rafi recalls the high costs of phone calls and the lengthy wait for correspondence via sea mail.

## Preserving the Past

To ensure the longevity of these documents, Rafi employs preservation techniques, including acid-free sleeves and climate-controlled storage. His son, Muhammad Asad, is actively involved in these efforts, aiming to preserve the collection for another century.

## A Passion for Photography

Rafi's passion for photography is evident in his collection of images, including aerial shots of Dubai and photographs from the first aerobatic air show by Sheikh Mohammed. These images capture moments of change and development in the city.

## Honoring Multicultural History

The family's contributions to Dubai's multicultural history have been recognized with awards, including the Dubai Art Award, highlighting their engagement with local culture and the city's diverse community.

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