Deep in the Al Quoz industrial zone in Dubai, Alserkal Avenue is the art creative district. The modern architectural districts of this area with vivid colors look far more futuristic and stylish. The Alserkal Avenue area, once a sweaty industrial district, has now turned into a creative zone. Here artistic and business creativity thrives.
Alserkal Avenue – In A Nutshell
What Is It?
The former industrial area in Dubai has come back to life. Housing contemporary artists, designers, and creative industries.
History:
In 2008, it was just one gallery and then it grew by itself.
Location:
Al Quoz Industrial Area, Dubai, UAE.
Unique Factor:
A huge number of art galleries are here in the region.
What To Expect:
A mix of contemporary art galleries, studios, coffee shops and community spaces.
Beyond Art:
Cinema Akil for independent films, the jamjar for art workshops, and a Sunday farmer’s market.
Significance:
A platform for local and international artistic exchange. Here Dubai’s art scene is hedging on the same city.
From Warehouse to Wonderland – History and Legacy!
The tale of Alserkal Avenue is the story of an amazing transmutation. The one art gallery opened its doors in 2008 and was the spark of the journey into a unique culture. The initial spark attracted other creative minds. Empty stores were cleaned up and redesigned into wonderfully original art studios.
Alserkal Avenue is more than just a destination; it manifests the flourished art scene in Dubai. Under the management of the Alserkal family, this initiative has developed every year. It presented the works of local talents and the cultural exchange with artists from abroad. Through the flow of successive exhibits, Alserkal Avenue creates a place where creativity thrives.
A Feast for the Senses – Venues & Experiences
Stepping into Alserkal Avenue is to enter a world of possibilities. Here creativity knows no bounds. Commonly visited are top art galleries such as Carbon 12 and Leila Heller Gallery. These feature artworks from leading and debuting artists. Our friends who love photography could go and discover the magical world of Gulf Photo Plus. Art lovers can find artworks in the many independent galleries.
The multifaceted event spaces at Alserkal Avenue are perfect for hosting exclusive meetings and celebrations. The most attractive ones are:
Concrete
The award-winning Concrete of Dubai takes the event full circle, re-imagining it with no limits. This flexible space is to be designed according to your vision. It is able to accommodate everything from massive art shows to corporate gatherings. Cooperation with famous partners and hi-tech options ensure the event is an unforgettable one in fields of art, design, fashion, and more. This building is the first one in the UAE done by the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA).
The Yard
The Yard is a unique outdoor space located next to the OMA-designed Concrete venue. Here besides art exhibitions; concerts, film screenings, high-profile talks and fashion shows are hosted.
Shell & Core
Quirky events like product launches, exhibitions, conferences and private dinners are held here. Shell & Core, an industrial–chic venue, is set in the middle of Alserkal Avenue’s creative community. Thus, offering flexible space for such gatherings.
Jossa
Echoing the architect’s wisdom, Jossa is a multipurpose space by Alserkal. It is designed by the Bauhaus-influenced architect Mario Jossa. Occupying Warehouse 45, once the home to the Jean-Paul Najar Foundation. Jossa by Alserkal has a gallery space fitted out for art to be exhibited in both private and public settings.
Beyond Art
Alserkal Avenue is not simply a string of galleries to visit. It is an entire cultural space where one can explore creativity. The jamjar serves as a fun community space where young people can learn new things through art classes. Cinema Akil, as a shorthand to the film, is an independent arthouse venue. While The Junction is a dedicated theater for local productions.
If you do not regard yourself as an art enthusiast, you can still find a deal of interest at Alserkal Avenue. Discover the myriad of design boutiques and chill in style at eyeful cafes. Or be a part of exclusive events and pop-up exhibitions. The exterior spaces provide plenty of opportunity to chill and soak in the thoughtful creative ambiance. Also, do not forget the weekly Sunday farmer’s market which is a perfect addition to the community experience.
Plan Your Visit
Location of Alserkal Avenue
Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/r22ma9r7sSs5pb55A
Alserkal Avenue is in the Al Quoz industrial area of Dubai and consists of three entrances. 17th Street, 6A Street, and First Al Khail Street in Al Quoz 1.
Opening Hours of Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM. The individual business hours might differ, so please check those of the specific places you want to visit.
How do I get to Alserkal Avenue?
- Metro: Alserkal Avenue is right on the metro route. The nearest Onpassive Metro Station (former Al Safa Metro Station) is on the M1 line.
- Taxi or a Bus: A taxi will take you there in only 5 min or you can walk or take a bus. A bus ride of 10 minutes will take you on the #110 Bus. It runs every 12 minutes from Al Safa Bus Terminus to Alserkal Avenue. Moreover, you can rent a car in Sharjah as well.
Conclusion
Alserkal Avenue has manifested Dubai’s commitment to building a culturally vibrant art and culture sector. Once a machine area, it has turned into a vibrant hub for contemporary art, design, and creativity. Alserkal Avenue not only nurtures local talent. But attracts international artists and art lovers alike. Visitors learn about the melting pot of cultures through being a part of incredible shows. The avenue remains a cultural landmark and will always be a mainstay of Dubai’s cultural landscape. Listen to that digital note–Alserkal Avenue promises an art and culture summer.