11 arts and culture districts to find inspiration in Dubai

Al Quoz's industrial area forms a striking hub for the contemporary arts and culture scene in Dubai. Here, a network of entrepreneurial artists and creatives have taken over a collection of warehouses and industrial spaces, filling them with galleries, studios, performance spaces and cafes. At its heart is Alserkal Avenue, a large warehouse complex that operates as a socially responsible cultural enterprise and provides space for a wealth of cultural and artistic ventures. Our independent arthouse cinema, Cinema Akil, is based here. Since 2014, we’ve been showcasing international films to UAE audiences and hosting pop-ups and festivals.

This thriving neighbourhood is a fun place to stroll around and soak up the ambience of its bustling streets. Home to a large community of expats from Southeast Asia, Al Satwa is well known for its textile stores and exotic cuisine. Visit Nujood Sweets to pick up some mouth-watering Pakistani desserts or experience a full menu from the subcontinent at Ravi Restaurant. If you’re looking to shop, Deepak’s Textiles is one of the oldest textile stores in Dubai and has a dizzying range of fabrics for you to browse. Likewise, check out Al Fida or Regal Fabrics for all your haberdashery and crafting needs.

This impressive development consists of 80 towers built alongside three artificial lakes. It’s very popular with Dubai’s expat community and is bursting with stylish lounges and restaurants. Sample some classic Greek cuisine at Mythos Kouzina & Grill – a taverna-style eatery with white-washed walls tucked away in the Armada BlueBay Hotel. The hotel is also home to Nola Eatery and Social House, a lively New Orleans-themed lounge with live music nights and a fiery Cajun grill.

Undoubtedly one of the most impressive spectacles in Dubai is the mighty Sheikh Zayed Road. It’s a remarkable road, lined with breathtakingly tall skyscrapers – including the world’s largest building, the Burj Khalifa. But one of the first skyscrapers to appear here was the Sheikh Rashid Tower in 1979, which has since been extended and renamed the Dubai World Trade Centre. This huge, purpose-built complex now hosts major international conferences, exhibitions and events. Feeling hungry? Visit Bento-Ya on Sheikh Zayed Road – this cosy, unpretentious restaurant serves authentic Japanese cuisine and is a favourite with the local Japanese expat community.

The Etihad Museum in Al Mina documents the rich history of the UAE in a series of interactive exhibitions and displays. Formerly known as the Union House, this is where the emirate’s founding fathers signed the official declaration that formed the UAE in 1971. A short walk from the museum and you’ll find the Drydocks, the largest dry dock in the Arabian Gulf. Marvel at the sheer scale of the ships here, and the giant floating crane that hoists them out of the water. Stop in at nearby Manna Land to refuel with some delicious Korean BBQ, or try Truck Adda for Pakistani delicacies. For the perfect shawarma, I highly recommend a visit to the popular Al Mallah restaurant on the 2^nd of December Street.

Dubai is blessed with a substantial amount of green space for recreation and relaxation. Safa Park is a haven of nature and tranquility, located just off the bustling Sheikh Zayed Road. You can rent a bike to ride through the gardens, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by a sea of greenery. Alternatively, Zabeel Park covers over 117 acres and contains the architectural landmark the Dubai Frame – an enormous structure that literally frames iconic views of old and new Dubai. Runners may want to try a lap or two of the running track in Al Quoz Park, which circles a huge pond filled with wading birds.