The Majlis Gallery is one of Dubai’s premier art galleries, which started from the home of expatriate interior designer Allison Collins. Translating to “common ground,” or “meeting place" – the Arabic word “Majlis” is beautifully represented throughout this once artful home.

Located in the heart of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, The Majlis Gallery is a hub for artists from all backgrounds to represent their work in the Middle East. All art lovers  can appreciate these fine collections of work across the permanent installations. Having flourished into a top art gallery, The Majlis features a variety of creative pieces.

The range of fine arts and paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glasswork and photography are an absolute must-see. Step into a visual journey at The Majlis Gallery, surrounded by the original structures of the house. The barasti-style ceilings, shuttered windows, wind tower and oiled teak doors add to the character of this artist’s hub, giving a glimpse into the cultural life of Old Dubai.

Dubai's oldest fine-art gallery was founded in 1989 by British expat Alison Collins and presents mainly paintings and sculpture by international artists inspired by the region, as well as high-quality pottery, glass and other crafts. It's located in an old wind-tower house on the edge of Al Fahidi Historic District. The central courtyard surrounds a magnificent henna tree.

History

A haven for artists and art lovers, The Majlis Gallery grew out of a love affair between an expatriate lady and a very special house. Alison Collins came to Dubai in 1976 to work as an interior designer. She fell in love with the country, especially with the architecture and the ambiance of the old windtower houses in Bastakiya. In 1978, with the help of two Iranian tea importers and an Egyptian curtain maker, Alison and her husband secured the lease on villa number 19, Bastakia, Bur Dubai. Here, over the next ten years, they raised their three young children and played host to many informal soirees in their ‘majlis’, hence the name, introducing artists both professional and amateur to a somewhat culturally bereft community.

The Bastakia, now known as The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, offers a tantalizing glimpse into a time when Dubai was nothing more than a sleepy trading port, and now, with the opening of the newly renovated houses, presents the Emirate with a vibrant artistic centre.

NOTE: Majlis Gallery around Al Fahidi fort is not worth spending time if one is          

              tight on the schedule  while in Dubai. 

Projects and Art Consultancy

Art is often the last item to be thought about in the design of offices, hotels, public spaces and private interiors, yet it is a fundamental element in the overall success of any project.

We are highly experienced in working with clients to source pieces that work specifically for them within realistic budgets. No project is too small or too big.

With over 60 artists in our regular portfolio and many more wanting to work through us the possibilities are limitless. From prints exclusive to your project through to original paintings, portraits, sculpture, glass, framing, installation and accessories.Past projects, all completed on time and within budget, include

• The Address Hotel

• Barclays Bank

• Lloyds Bank

• First Gulf Bank

• The Royal Flight Abu Dhabi

• Pinsent Masons

• The Royal Mirage.

• Qasr Al Sarab.

• EGPC.

• The Hilton Group