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Traditional cooling methods in the UAE

Emiratis Handled the Heat Like This Before Air Conditioning

These wind towers were the OG air conditioning for Emiratis, keeping them cool long before the days of A/C.

Picture living in the blazing desert with no A/C. Crazy, right? But way before today’s tech, Emiratis relied on “barjeel,” traditional wind towers that acted like nature’s A/C, keeping homes cool.

These clever structures, like those in Dubai’s Heritage Village, were designed to capture breezes and bring them inside, cooling rooms by up to 10°C. The magic? A vertical wind shaft that draws in fresh air and pushes out the hot stuff—no power required, just pure, eco-friendly genius.

They have been around for over 500 years!

@explorewithlulu_ The ancestors of today’s AC 😍 #uae #culture #heritage ♬ original sound – LULU | Life In UAE 🌴🇦🇪

Wind towers go way back—over 500 years, starting in Iran—and became a symbol of Dubai during the pearl trade boom in the 1800s. Made from coral, palm wood, and other materials perfect for the desert, they showcase not just practical ingenuity but also stunning Arabian architecture.

Today, you can still find them in historic spots like Al Fahidi or even at places like Madinat Jumeirah, where they mix timeless charm with eco-friendly living.

Next time you’re in Dubai, take a walk through Heritage Village and let these towers remind you that staying cool in the desert has always been a true art.

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