Why walking through Alserkal Avenue is my new personality trait

I moved to Dubai in the dead of summer, when stepping outside felt like being personally roasted by the sun.

For months, I barely ventured past my front door, or freezing cold office, let alone explored the city’s coolest corners. But now that the weather’s finally decided to chill (literally), I’ve started ticking off my Dubai bucket list. First up: Alserkal Avenue

Here’s the thing about Alserkal: It’s not just a place, it’s a whole vibe. Nestled in the industrial heart of Dubai, this cultural hub is where art, caffeine, and existential musings collide.

to yourself?

This isn’t just another spot on the tourist checklist — it’s the kind of place that demands a leisurely stroll, a good pair of sunglasses, and an open mind. That makes you question if you’re cool enough to be there, while simultaneously inviting you to stay a little longer. Spoiler: I stayed.

Here are nine unfiltered, slightly caffeinated thoughts I had while strolling through its eclectic maze:

1. Am I on the set of a Netflix indie film?

Stepping into Alserkal Avenue feels like you’ve been transported to an alternate universe where industrial chic meets relentless sunshine. Rows of warehouse spaces host everything from art galleries to quirky coffee shops. The contrast to the glittering skyscrapers of downtown Dubai is so stark it’s almost a plot twist. My eyebrows and my expectations were both raised.

One wrong turn and you’ve wandered into what looks like a warehouse but turns out to be … a performance art piece? Or maybe a secret pop-up boutique? I don’t know. There’s no signage. Oh well, not all who wander are lost (I definitely was though at some point).

It's giving hipster

2. Why is the silence so...loud?

For a place buzzing with creativity, it’s surprisingly quiet. The kind of quiet that makes you hyperaware of your own footsteps. It’s as if the Avenue is daring you to slow down and really look around.

Trying...

3. And why is everyone and everything here so photogenic?

I swear, even the trash cans at Alserkal Avenue look curated. Every wall seemed designed to be Instagrammed, and people were obliging. A couple posed in front of a pastel-pink mural, angling their heads in ways that suggested they both just happened to look this good naturally. Meanwhile, I took a candid shot of a pigeon because I’m an artist, obviously.

Look at the bejewelled wall!

4. The sense of community is strong with this one

Alserkal isn’t just a place to look at art; it’s a space that feels like a community. You can almost taste the collective energy of creatives, thinkers, and dreamers, all congregating to make something bigger than the sum of their Instagram feeds.

In a transient city like Dubai, gestures like this stand out

So. Many. Cute. Trinkets!

5. Come hungry, stay foolish

I ate before going which was a rookie mistake. So many yum options to choose from! Whether you’re in the mood for a pastry, a latte, or something a little more experimental, there’s no shortage of options. Pro tip: don’t come expecting to stay on a diet. Next time, I'm trying the strawberry Japanese sando.

Going back for this too

And this!

6. People are waiting for over an hour in line for croissants?

Apparently, me too! bkry, Dubai’s trendiest bakery, had me curious enough to add my name to the waitlist. The suspense was unbearable as I waited for my turn, but I’ll admit, those croissants were worth it. I didn’t expect to like them as much as I did—but I did.

Proof!

I'd walk back to Alserkal from my place for this pistachio croissant

7. Do I really need a third cup of coffee?

Alserkal Avenue is to coffee lovers what Paris is to baguette enthusiasts. Every few steps, there’s a charming spot offering ethically sourced beans brewed by baristas who probably moonlight as poets. Sitting here with a cup of joe, I feel like the protagonist in a rom-com about self-discovery. Where’s my meet-cute?

Fair enough. Time for another cup

8. Home is where the art is

The first gallery I wandered into already had me go into “Is this art or am I missing something?” territory. Even the carpet boutique (Jaipur Rugs) looked like a full-blown art show. Hands down, the most mesmerising store I've ever been to. I couldn't stop touching the walls.

I mean, how stunning is this place?

9. Do I want to come back for the Cat Videos Fest? Yes, yes, I do

By the time the sun started dipping, casting long shadows over the warehouses, I realized I’d only scratched the surface of what Alserkal Avenue has to offer. It’s more than a collection of galleries and shops; it’s a microcosm of everything I love about urban culture — creativity, connection, and coffee.

Equal parts introspective journey and highly curated photo op, it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon questioning everything, including your footwear choices. Next time, I’ll bring a tote bag and an open schedule. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a felt hat to buy.

My kind of film festival

Doing it for the culture