Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal is a pioneering contemporary arts organization situated in Dubai, renowned for its commitment to cultural exchange and innovative artistic expression. Founded in 2007, Alserkal has transformed from a modest cluster of warehouses into a vibrant cultural district that champions cutting-edge art and thought-provoking discourse. The organization provides a platform for both emerging and established artists, curators, and thinkers from around the globe, fostering an environment where creativity and critical dialogue thrive. Their work extends beyond traditional gallery exhibitions, encompassing a dynamic range of public programs, performances, screenings, and workshops that engage diverse audiences.

At the core of Alserkal’s mission is the belief in the transformative power of the arts to inspire and provoke change. This ethos is reflected in their curated programs, which often address pressing social and environmental issues, challenge conventional narratives, and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration. Alserkal Avenue, the physical hub of the organization, serves as a creative ecosystem where artists, designers, and cultural practitioners can experiment, innovate, and connect. The organization’s initiatives, such as the Alserkal Residency and the annual Quoz Arts Fest, further underscore its dedication to nurturing talent and expanding the cultural landscape of the region.

Through its strategic partnerships and collaborations with local and international institutions, Alserkal not only elevates the profile of contemporary art in Dubai but also positions itself as a critical node in the global cultural network. The organization’s impact is evident in its ability to draw diverse audiences and foster a sense of community among artists and art enthusiasts alike. By continuously pushing the boundaries of what an arts organization can be, Alserkal remains at the forefront of cultural innovation, making significant contributions to the regional and global art scenes.

City

Dubai

Country

UAE

Region

Middle East

Year of Creation

2008

Featured Project

Resonance
“Resonance” is a site-specific sculptural installation by Maryam Namvar and Neda Salmanpour, curated by Munira Al Sayegh, and commissioned by Alserkal Arts Foundation and Dubai Culture, located in the historic Al Shindagha District. The installation features three suspended metal panels that move with the wind, reflecting light and echoing the rhythms of the creek, symbolizing the district’s rich history of trade and cultural exchange. By engaging visitors through a sensory experience, “Resonance” bridges the past and present, inviting reflection on the interconnectedness of water, architecture, and community life along the creek.

Resources

Cassady, Daniel. “Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue in 2025: Co‑Commissioning Partnership and a Focus on Female‑Led Places.” ARTnews, 17 Apr. 2025, artnews.az/over-15-years-on-alserkal-avenue-is-still-the-thrumming-heart-of-dubais-art-scene/.

Mehra, Reshma. “Climate Change in the Classroom, Living Room, Street and Beyond.” Cultures in Conversation Blog, Alserkal Online, 31 Oct. 2021, alserkal.online/words/cic-blog/.

Molina, Susana F. “Alserkal Avenue: Art and Culture Inspire Future Citizens of Dubai.” The Urban Activist, 16 May 2019, theurbanactivist.com/culture/alserkal-avenue-art-culture-inspire-future-citizens-dubai/.

Nabulsi, Farahb. “Meet Farah Nabulsi: The Filmmaker & Advocate for Palestinian People’s Rights.” Lovin Dubai, 21 Feb. 2024, 3:44 p.m., lovin.co/dubai/en/news/meet-farah-nabulsi-the-filmmaker-advocate-for-palestinian-peoples-rights/.

“Recipients of Research Grants 2025–27.” e‑flux, 25 Mar. 2025, www.e-flux.com/announcements/658721/recipients-of-research-grants-2025-27/.

Rudar, Lara. “Youth and Change.” Alserkal Online, 10 May 2022, alserkal.online/words/youth-and-change/.

“Vilma Jurkute on Developing Alserkal Avenue into an Arts & Culture Destination.” YouTube, uploaded by Lighthouse Conversations with Hashem Montasser, 17 Jan. 2024, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLZg_W1jnh8?si=nDJT0SnVGqe5qi6B.

More Information

IMPORTANT: Profile pages for all collectives are in permanent development and have been built using information in the public domain. They will be updated progressively and in dialogue with the organizations by the end of 2024. New features and sections will be included in 2025, like featured videos, and additional featured projects. Please contact us if you discover errors. For more information on mapping criteria and to submit your organization’s information to be potentially included in the database, visit this page

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