Museum of Illusions Dubai has officially closed its doors at Souk Al Seef after almost eight years, leaving behind plenty of memories for residents and visitors who enjoyed its playful take on science and perception.
The museum announced the closure on social media, saying that its chapter at Souk Al Seef had come to an end. It thanked visitors for being part of its journey and said it hoped to see them again, although there has been no announcement of a new Dubai location so far.
A different kind of museum experience
The attraction first opened on September 12, 2018, at Souk Al Seef beside Dubai Creek. It was part of the international Museum of Illusions franchise, which began in Zagreb, Croatia, in 2015.
Over the years, the Dubai branch became known for turning simple ideas about perception into interactive experiences. The museum featured more than 60 visual and educational exhibits, including holograms, stereograms, optical illusions and immersive rooms.
Visitors could walk through spaces that appeared to defy gravity, experiment with mirrors and perspective, and take photographs that made ordinary surroundings look completely different. This mix of learning and entertainment helped make it appealing to both children and adults.
The attraction also fitted naturally into a day out at Al Seef, where visitors could explore the waterfront, browse the shops and restaurants, and then spend time inside the museum.
Residents remember the experience
News of the closure quickly prompted nostalgic reactions online, with former visitors sharing memories and hoping the attraction might return elsewhere in Dubai.
One Dubai resident told Khaleej Times that the museum was among the first places she visited after moving to the city. She recalled being fascinated by the experience and particularly enjoyed the upside-down room and deceptive mirrors.
Other comments came from parents who had hoped to take their children to the attraction, while some former visitors simply expressed sadness at seeing it go. Questions about whether another branch could open in Dubai also appeared among the reactions.
For many, the museum stood out because it offered something different from the city’s larger attractions. It was playful, educational and easy to enjoy across different age groups.
What tickets cost before the closure
When it was operating, ticket prices varied according to age and visitor category. The last published rates included:
- General admission: Dh65 for children, Dh90 for adults and Dh75 for seniors
- Family and group tickets: Dh250 for two adults and two children, or Dh370 for five tickets
- UAE residents: Dh55 for children, Dh80 for adults, Dh65 for seniors and Dh220 for a family of four
- People of Determination: Dh40
With its Al Seef chapter now over, the Museum of Illusions leaves behind eight years of upside-down rooms, deceptive mirrors and plenty of photographs. Whether the brand eventually returns to Dubai remains to be seen, but for former visitors, the attraction will be remembered as one of the city’s more unusual family experiences.
