XVA Art Hotel

Although XVA Art Hotel opened its doors relatively recently back in 2003, it is part of Dubai's treasured Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. This heritage district was formerly known as Bastakiya, and consisted of merchant and fishing communities that lived in and supported Dubai for generations. The building itself occupies what was once the home of the Seddiqi family, who remain today as some of the city's foremost luxury watch and jewelry dealers. The property was redeveloped by Mona Hauser, who invited various artists and designers as her collaborators, turning the small estate into the art gallery and boutique hotel we know today.

XVA Art Hotel occupies a traditional courtyard house in Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, thus following its original layout and architecture. One of the district's defining features is its communities built around multiple shaded courtyards, an atmosphere which the hotel has delicately preserved. It also retains the original barjeel, or wind towers, which provided ventilation long before machine air-conditioning was developed. The overall architecture is the result of Persian influences, providing practical solutions to fight against the hot desert climate, making use of narrow alleyways, high walls, and shaded communal spaces. This practicality also extends to the use of locally available materials, particularly coral stone, gypsum, and timber.

Due to being an adapted family estate, XVA features individualized accommodations and art-centric spaces creatively crafted by various artists and designers. The interior elements make use of existing fixtures like wooden beams, stone floors, and Arabic portal arches, all while layering contemporary conventions.

XVA Café

Bask in the immersive ambiance of XVA Café, which operates around the hotel's three shaded courtyards, serving delectable Middle Eastern vegetarian and vegan cuisine. The menu includes a wide variety of dishes, from signature offerings like the Bastakiya breakfast and omelette paratha, to salads and light bites like mezze, falafel wraps, and sandwiches. Mains consist of hearty vegetarian favorites such as the eggplant burger and special XVA thali. All these are meant to be enjoyed with creative desserts and their extensive drink selections, which include mint lemonade, fresh juices, coffees, and teas.

Opening hours: 7 am to 10 pm

Looking for a lovely little spot for your wedding reception? XVA Art Hotel's beautiful dining and gallery spaces aren't just for relaxing and admiring creativity; they can also host your milestone events. The hotel has accommodated various well-known brands, and are also available for private occasions like your Happily Ever After. They'll have a dedicated events manager who will coordinate with you and assist in the planning of every detail, be it the decor, layout, and even catering. Click the button below, and we'll help you get in touch with XVA Art Hotel, because we'd also like you to celebrate your finest days in utmost bliss.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

XVA is proud of its title as an art hotel, inviting appreciators and critics from all over to not just enjoy a lavish stay, but also admire the many works that line the halls and rooms. The main art hub of the property is the XVA Gallery, a contemporary space that has operated since the hotel’s launch and is a focal point for Dubai's creative minds. The gallery regularly exhibits works by artists from the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. Various genres are represented, such as paintings, sculptures, and installations, many of which are displayed not just in the galleries but also around the hotel’s courtyards and on interior walls.

Beyond the hotel's walls is the surrounding Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, a heritage district made up of various communities of fisherfolk, merchants, and artisans. First established in the 1890s as Al Bastakiya, the district preserves traditional Emirati architecture. The area is filled with narrow alleys and wind-tower houses that depict life in Dubai before the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Key landmarks include Al Fahidi Fort, a historic stronghold built in 1787 and now housing the Dubai Museum. There are also plenty of nearby culture spots, such as the Coffee Museum, which is both a museum filled with exhibits and a cozy coffee shop with drinks and snacks. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding provides guided talks and heritage meals that bring insight into local customs. On cooler days, you can wander the alleys and neighborhoods to check out local shops, or observe traditional abra and dhow boats ply the waterways.

XVA Art Hotel has proudly hosted many parties for famous brands at its hotel, and these beautiful courtyards and spaces can be your venue as well. Whether you're looking for a cozy space for an intimate reunion or anniversary, or a sleek and stylish space for a company party, XVA can provide what you need. You will have the assistance of the hotel's events coordinator, who will help plan various aspects, including the catering and decor. Through them, you may also be able to avail of partner services, such as entertainment or group activities.