Discover The Arts Club Dubai in DIFC – the first international outpost of the London concept that opened its doors in the late 1800s
With a storied past that dates back to 19th-century London, The Arts Club served as a meeting place for individuals immersed in the fields of art, literature and the sciences. Originally founded in 1863, it’s the ultimate icon of creative heritage, with notable members, including Charles Dickens, Wilkie Collins, Thomas Hughes, Franz Liszt, Auguste Rodin and more, having walked through its doors.
From its original home on London’s Hanover Square to its present location in an 18th-century mansion in Mayfair, the club has remained a haven for many distinguished figures through the centuries. Even today, the prestigious venue champions a unique lifestyle experience, allowing members to entertain their guests in its sleek surrounds, with exceptional dining choices. Yet, the focus on art and culture is at its core, as a tribute to its early members, who made a positive impact on society through the exchange of creative and entrepreneurial ideas at the hub.
It is only fitting that The Arts Club chose to expand with its first international outpost in Dubai, where the creative landscape has seen several innovative concepts come to life and completely transform the city. The venue opened its doors to members last year, inviting those involved in the arts, music, literature, design, science, technology, health, philanthropy, law, finance and fashion to enjoy its immersive offerings.
Artistic showcase
Housed in the heart of DIFC in the ICD Brookfield Place development, The Arts Club Dubai spans an impressive 65,000 square feet and is set over four floors. Its unique setting is designed to provide its members with an extension to their own homes: elegant, comfortable, versatile and surrounded by like-minded individuals therein.
In keeping with its sister outpost, the club will house a permanent art collection, showcasing stunning works created by established and upcoming artists from the Middle East. Rotating exhibitions are also organised regularly to further champion arts in the region, while under the club’s Artists Commission programme, the creative community can contribute to the venue’s contemporary art collection, exhibitions and events.
The first of its kind in the Middle East, the club endeavours to support the artistic landscape of the region with a diverse programme of weekly events that has been designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests. On the agenda is everything from talks, panel discussions and debates to artist studio visits, live music performances, creative workshops, exclusive screenings and more.
Room for more
With its area more than twice the size of its London counterpart, The Arts Club Dubai allows plenty of room for entertainment. There are three private dining rooms, five lounges, seven craft cocktail bars, a rooftop terrace (with private cigar cabanas), a sundowner’s terrace and rooftop lounge. There is also a late-night lounge and cigar lounge as well as a blank canvas space for events with three meeting rooms.
Completing the experience is a five-star gourmet offering, in keeping with its British counterpart. The DIFC venue is home to the famous brasserie from the London import, which joins two homegrown hospitality concepts – a Nikkei restaurant and an Italian venue – promising members a culinary journey on every visit.
For more information, visit theartsclub.ae