Al Serkal Avenue Dubai is a cool hub for arts, media and and cultural activity. It’s an all pedestrian zone that encompasses an art house cinema, cafes, art galleries, a theatre and even an artisanal chocolate factory! Read on to find out exactly where Al Serkal Avenue Dubai is located and what to expect when you get there..
What is Al Serkal Avenue Dubai
There are no high rise buildings or shiny shopping malls anywhere in Al Serkal Avenue Dubai. Think of a largely pedestrian zone with smaller independent units that you can pop in and out of very easily. There are some art galleries and a comprehensive rug and furniture showroom that are housed in mini warehouse type shops.
There is also an art house cinema called Cinema Akil that has the quirky Chaiwalla Cafe attached to it with some outdoor seating available in cooler weather. So for Dubai that’s roughly November to April.
Try some of their varieties of masala tea and samosas! There is a focus on international films at Cinema Akil that you wouldn’t find in main stream Dubai cinemas.
If you prefer live theatre then almost right next door is a small theatre that was showing an adaptation of Macbeth in November 2108. The Junction is at the moment the only independent performing arts venue in the UAE.
Don’t leave Al Serkal without checking out the Mirzam chocolate factory with it’s glass fronted workshop. Beautifully packaged, locally produced chocolate bars that often incorporate local flavours. Sample before you buy though!
And note around AED 46 per bar.
If you have a bit longer to spend here then paint your feelings or anything else at The Jamjar an art space where you can chill, drink coffee and paint all at once, and eat cookies!
Where exactly is Al Serkal Avenue Dubai
Al Serkal Avenue Dubai is located in the Al Quoz area which is generally known for it’s industry focus with large warehouses and factory units.
You can park right outside Al Serkal avenue and then it’s very easy to walk around, especially in the cooler months.
Here’s a Google Map telling you exactly where Al Serkal avenue is located.
Food and Drink at Al Serkal Avenue Dubai
Food and drink is abundant everywhere you go in Dubai but often there are chain fast food restaurants that really don’t appeal to many of us.
So luckily Al Serkal has a good range of independent cafes you can explore. Organic, fresh ingredients and cool vibes are on offer at most of the places.
There is a branch of Wild & the Moon cafe if you want to be super healthy. Great for turmeric shots and cabbage rolls.
You could get down to earth on a floor seat at the newly opened Nadi Al Quoz that also has a swing bed and hammocks. Very relaxing, but stick to the tables to balance your coffees on!
Or go to our favourite place at the moment in Al Serkal avenue Dubai, the Nightjar Cafe and Coffee roastery. Try something from the brunch menu.. we loved our beetroot salmon and 63 degree egg.
But you must also leave room for the lemon polenta cake with a cup of fresh coffee.
Top Café pick at Al Serkal Avenue Dubai
At the moment it’s definitely the Nightjar Cafe and Coffee Roastery
Other cool facts about Al Serkal Avenue Dubai
There are some very contemporary art galleries that are always showcasing new and up coming designers and artists.
Do also check out the Rug Company for it’s beautiful collection of rugs and homewares.
We were invited to a Netflix event at a very modern and innovative venue called Ink, also in Al Serkal avenue Dubai.
There is a handful of arts and media companies that have opened in the area including a new film consultancy firm called Near East.
Is Al Serkal Avenue Dubai worth going to
Yes for sure, especially in cooler weather…here’s why
- Pedestrianized
- No malls
- No high rise buildings
- Independent cafes
- Art house cinema & theatre
- Cool, hipster type vibe
- Easy Parking
- Community Events
Do you know any similar places worth going to in Dubai?
Thank you
Monica.