





Dubai: XVA Gallery
Operating Hours:Monday - Thursday: 10:00 - 18:00. Friday - Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00
The Vibe:Tranquil heritage courtyard of art
Nestled in Al Fahidi’s heritage district, a restored wind-tower building houses a pioneering contemporary art gallery. The space blends traditional Arabian architecture with rotating exhibits of Middle Eastern art. A shaded courtyard cafe adds quiet charm.
Cool tiled courtyards and shaded gardens invite quiet contemplation. Fountains and birdsong compete softly with the distant city hum. The scent of fresh mint lemonade drifts from the courtyard cafe.
- One of Dubai’s pioneering contemporary art galleries
- Located in a restored 1920s wind-tower heritage house
- Visitors praise its tranquil courtyard vibe
- Featured in various Dubai travel guides
Fit For
- 👨👩👧 Families: Shaded gardens and gentle paths; kids can roam freely.
- 💕 Couples: Cozy courtyard tables and ambient lighting for date nights.
- 👵 Seniors: Flat pathways, shaded seating areas and a relaxed pace.
- 📸 Photographers: Light-dappled courtyards perfect for moody shots.
Highlights
- Restored heritage building — traditional wind-tower architecture with courtyards
- Curated exhibitions — rotating contemporary art from the Middle East
- XVA Café — popular vegetarian menu served under the palm trees
- Boutique gift shop — unique artisan crafts and souvenirs — Hidden Gem
Dubai Local Expert

Laura Coughlin
Table of Contents
- Al Fahidi Metro Station (Green Line) is a 10-minute walk; use the Bur Dubai exit.
- Taxi/ride-share drop-off on Al Fahidi Street by the XVA Hotel & Café entrance.
- Limited street parking nearby; paid lots at WAFI Mall (5 min drive) are closest.
- Enter through the ornate wooden gate; if unsure, look for XVA signage.
Food & Coffee Shops
XVA Café: Vegetarian Middle Eastern dishes and mint lemonade in a shaded courtyard.
Arabian Tea House: Traditional Emirati snacks and tea in a heritage house (100m away).
XVA Café: Vegetarian Middle Eastern dishes and mint lemonade in a shaded courtyard.
Arabian Tea House: Traditional Emirati snacks and tea in a heritage house (100m away).
Insider Tips
Best Time: Early morning weekdays for a serene visit; afternoons get busier.
Hack: Pair your visit with a stroll through Bastakiya and a meal at nearby Al Seef.
Hidden Gem: Look out for limited-time installations and talks by local artists.
Tip: Check cafe hours (opens early) if you want the mint lemonade experience.
Best Time: Early morning weekdays for a serene visit; afternoons get busier.
Hack: Pair your visit with a stroll through Bastakiya and a meal at nearby Al Seef.
Hidden Gem: Look out for limited-time installations and talks by local artists.
Tip: Check cafe hours (opens early) if you want the mint lemonade experience.
Photography Tips
No tripods allowed; flash is discouraged to protect the art.
Morning or late afternoon light creates dramatic shadows on the walls.
Capture details of the wind-tower and courtyard architecture.
Respect fellow visitors’ privacy and keep noise to a minimum when photographing.
No tripods allowed; flash is discouraged to protect the art.
Morning or late afternoon light creates dramatic shadows on the walls.
Capture details of the wind-tower and courtyard architecture.
Respect fellow visitors’ privacy and keep noise to a minimum when photographing.
Things To Do Nearby
Dubai Museum: Housed in Al Fahidi Fort, just steps away; learn about the city’s history.
Bastakiya Walk: Wander the heritage lanes of Al Fahidi with cafes and galleries.
Dubai Creek Abra: Nearby dock for traditional boat rides across the creek.
Souk Al Kabeer: A short drive away for textiles, spices, and local market atmosphere.
Dubai Museum: Housed in Al Fahidi Fort, just steps away; learn about the city’s history.
Bastakiya Walk: Wander the heritage lanes of Al Fahidi with cafes and galleries.
Dubai Creek Abra: Nearby dock for traditional boat rides across the creek.
Souk Al Kabeer: A short drive away for textiles, spices, and local market atmosphere.





