Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz is Dubai's most concentrated arts district: a cluster of warehouses converted into galleries, artist studios, design showrooms, and independent arts spaces. About 60 galleries and arts organisations are based here, covering contemporary art, photography, architecture, and design from the region and internationally.
The galleries are mostly open from Tuesday to Saturday. The programming can be high quality — a number of the galleries here have strong international reputations and represent significant regional artists. The surrounding area in Al Quoz industrial district is gritty by Dubai standards, which makes the contrast with the polished gallery interiors more interesting. Cafe Rider and neighbouring food spots in the complex provide coffee and lunch. From Downtown, it is a 20-minute drive.