A Hidden Artistic Gem in Dubai’s Historic Heart
Tucked away within the winding alleys of Al Fahidi Historical District in Bur Dubai, the XVA Art Hotel & Café is one of Dubai’s best-kept secrets — a serene oasis where art, culture, and history come together beneath the shade of old wind towers. For travelers eager to explore beyond skyscrapers and shopping malls, this boutique hotel and café offers a rare glimpse into Dubai’s soul — a place where tradition meets creativity in a truly peaceful setting.
Located just minutes from Al Seef and the shimmering Dubai Creek, XVA captures the essence of the city’s heritage while infusing it with the spirit of contemporary art. It’s not merely a hotel or café; it’s a living gallery, a sanctuary for artists, and a meeting point for travelers seeking beauty, quiet, and authenticity.
A Journey into the Old Dubai
The Al Fahidi Historical District (also known as Al Bastakiya) is one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods, dating back to the late 19th century. Its labyrinth of narrow lanes, coral-stone walls, and traditional wind towers (called barajeel) reflects the city’s early days as a trading hub along the Arabian Gulf.
Nestled within this cultural haven, XVA Art Hotel occupies several restored heritage houses, preserving the charm of Emirati architecture while adding touches of modern design. Stepping through its wooden doors feels like entering another era — the air cools, footsteps soften, and the world outside disappears.
The property’s hidden courtyard is its heart — shaded by trees, filled with dappled sunlight, and surrounded by whitewashed walls adorned with contemporary artworks. It’s a space where time seems to slow down, inviting guests to linger over coffee, sketch in silence, or browse the art exhibits displayed in every corner.
A Living Art Gallery
What makes XVA truly special is its dual identity as both a boutique hotel and an art gallery. The exhibitions change frequently, guaranteeing that every visit provides a fresh and unique experience. The gallery focuses on contemporary Middle Eastern art, featuring paintings, sculptures, installations, and photography that reflect the region’s diverse cultural narratives.
The exhibitions rotate regularly, ensuring that each visit offers something new. Guests may find themselves admiring minimalist calligraphy, bold abstract canvases, or thought-provoking works inspired by Emirati culture and identity.
Art lovers can purchase pieces directly from the gallery, making it one of the few places in Dubai where visitors can take home an original artwork as a meaningful souvenir. The staff are knowledgeable and welcoming, always ready to share the stories behind the artists and their creations.
The XVA Boutique Hotel Experience
For those wishing to extend their visit, the XVA Art Hotel offers an intimate stay unlike anywhere else in Dubai. With only 15 individually designed rooms, it provides privacy and charm rather than extravagance. Each room is decorated with handmade furniture, locally inspired textiles, and original artworks — a perfect reflection of the city’s blend of tradition and innovation.
The architecture retains authentic features such as wooden doors, gypsum carvings, and shaded courtyards, while incorporating modern comforts like air-conditioning and high-speed Wi-Fi. There are no grand lobbies or elevators here — just peaceful corridors, open-air patios, and an atmosphere that feels deeply personal.
Guests often describe staying at XVA as an escape from the fast pace of Dubai’s urban life. The experience is immersive yet tranquil — perfect for writers, artists, photographers, or anyone in search of inspiration.
The XVA Café: A Hidden Culinary Retreat
Even for those not staying overnight, the XVA Café is reason enough to visit. Consistently ranked among Dubai’s top hidden cafés, it serves vegetarian cuisine in a setting that feels worlds away from the city’s bustle. Tables are set beneath shady trees in the central courtyard, where the rustling of leaves and soft notes of Arabic music create a soothing ambiance.
The menu features a mix of Middle Eastern and international dishes, all freshly prepared and beautifully presented. Favorites include the signature mint lemonade, pumpkin salad, Arabic mezze platter, and zucchini spaghetti. The desserts — particularly the date cake with toffee sauce — are a must-try.
Guests often linger for hours, reading, sketching, or simply enjoying the stillness. For digital nomads or creatives, it’s a perfect hideaway to work or dream amidst art and history.
Location and Accessibility
The XVA Art Hotel & Café is located within the Al Fahidi Historical District, near Al Seef and the Dubai Museum, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city. Visitors can reach it by taxi, metro (closest station: Al Fahidi on the Green Line), or even by crossing Dubai Creek on a traditional abra from Deira.
Once you arrive in Al Fahidi, signs guide you through the narrow lanes to XVA — but part of the experience is getting slightly lost. Each turn reveals hidden art galleries, craft shops, and traditional courtyards that showcase Dubai’s heritage. The area is compact and pedestrian-friendly, ideal for exploring on foot.
Free Entry, Priceless Atmosphere
One of the most appealing aspects of XVA is that it’s free to enter. Visitors can explore the art gallery, relax in the café, and enjoy the peaceful courtyards without charge. Only the artwork and hotel rooms are priced — making it an accessible cultural stop for travelers of all budgets.
It’s a perfect spot to take a break during a heritage tour, sip a refreshing drink, and recharge before continuing to explore nearby attractions like Al Seef, Dubai Creek, and the Textile Souk.
Nearby Attractions
- Al Seef: A charming waterfront promenade blending modern design with old-world charm, featuring shops, cafés, and creekside views.
- Dubai Creek: Take a traditional abra boat ride to experience Dubai’s historic trading roots.
- Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Fort):One of the oldest buildings in the city, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from Dubai’s pre-oil era.
- Textile Souk: A colorful market filled with fabrics, scarves, and handmade crafts — perfect for souvenir shopping.
Together, these attractions create a full-day cultural itinerary centered around XVA — art, heritage, and authentic Dubai life.
A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
The XVA Art Hotel & Café is more than a place to eat or sleep; it’s an experience that captures Dubai’s creative pulse. Within its quiet courtyards and art-filled walls, you can feel the dialogue between past and present — between traditional Emirati architecture and modern artistic expression.
For travelers seeking something authentic, this is a destination that speaks not through grandeur, but through soulful simplicity. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply in search of tranquility, XVA promises an experience that lingers long after you’ve left its shaded courtyards.
Visitor Information:
Location: Al Fahidi Historical District, Bur Dubai
Entry: Free for café and gallery visitors; art pieces available for purchase
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for a quiet atmosphere
Nearby: Al Seef, Dubai Creek, Dubai Museum, Textile Souk
At the XVA Art Hotel & Café, you don’t just view art — you live within it.