Dreaming of Europe’s pretty lanes? What if we say you can find a slice of Europe right here in Dubai? Hard to believe? Well, we’ve discovered an alley in Dubai which ticks all the boxes for a perfect European day out. The Courtyard at Al Quoz will give you all the European feels you ever need, even without you booking a ticket! So, what’s so special about this place? Read on, as we unravel!
What’s In It?
Nestled in Al Quoz’s Industrial area, the Courtyard houses an art gallery, a theatre with a 70-seat capacity, coffee and juice bar, an incubator business center, a bistro, flower boutique, unique home accessories and gift shop, printing, film and photography studios and spaces for interior designers and artists. In short, Courtyard is a viable multidisciplinary community center, which hosts variety of functions, exhibitions and cultural activities, thereby bringing together people from different nationalities and ethnic backgrounds. It is a place for people to meet, interact and learn about each other while engaging in art and culture.
The Courtyard narrates the story of Dubai itself, its society and culture in an abstract language created by inspirational architecture gated by façades of steel and glass. In a nutshell, this is the perfect spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse in art and culture. But, that’s not all. Apart from being an oasis of art and culture, the place also boasts eco-friendly and green initiatives.
For starters, most of the façades of the buildings that comprise the Courtyard are repurposed from other buildings. Much of the furniture and interior fittings are also created in the same vein, with the Courtyard producing a line of recycled furniture in-house. The counter in the main atrium, is made out of wooden pallets, as well as a lighting fixture composed of water pipes, while the library in the H2R office, is made out of recycled windowpanes and metal bars.
Besides, the place also hosts a series of organic pop-up markets, selling everything from fruits and vegetables to preserves and young plants for your garden. Finally, it also grows its very own chemical-free produce. In the past, it has grown dates, papayas, pumpkins and tomatoes, as well as hosting honeybees. Produce is free and shared between the Courtyard’s residents and visitors alike.
Moving over to the cafe’s menu, this is a place we’d highly recommend for a good coffee. Boasting pink walls, tiled floors and potted plants, this a perfect spot for a cozy winter afternoon. In addition, you can also tuck in some lip-smacking pastries, sugar-free treats and authentic cheese toasties.
Last but not the least, don’t leave the place without visiting the gem and interior design store. Inside you’ll spot a carefully curated range of ethically sourced rugs, lighting fixtures and accessories. Shop these handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces from across the globe that are waiting to furnish your homes. If you’re not in the purchasing mood try joining one of their workshops for some DIY inspo.
To sum it up, this is a perfect spot to stroll along cobblestone walkways, eat to your heart’s content and shop little somethings for your home.
We’re adding this to our weekend bucket-list! What about you?
Deets
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road , Al Quoz Industrial 1, Street 4b/Street 6
Contact: +971 4 347 5050
Timings: 8 am – 7 pm, every day
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