Nestled in Dubai’s historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, the XVA Art Hotel is a cultural gem that’ll make art lovers swoon. This small, charming hotel doubles as an art gallery, showcasing local talent and hosting exhibitions. The rooms are cozy and filled with artistic touches, while the peaceful courtyard cafe serves up delicious vegetarian fare.
We found the location to be top-notch, right in the heart of a car-free zone brimming with Persian-style buildings. It’s a great base for exploring Old Dubai on foot or by bicycle. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the area’s history and culture.
On the downside, some rooms can be a bit small, and the lack of alcohol might disappoint those looking for a nightcap. Also, light sleepers should be aware that the call to prayer from nearby mosques might wake them early.
This hotel is perfect for culture vultures, history buffs, and travelers who prefer intimate, character-filled accommodations over big, glitzy resorts. If you’re looking to experience the artistic side of Dubai and don’t mind trading some luxury amenities for authenticity, the XVA Art Hotel is a real winner.
About Your Stay
- XVA Art Hotel is a unique, art-oriented haven located in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood of Bur Dubai, UAE.
- The hotel showcases the work of regional artists and hosts cultural programs like the SIKKA Art Fair.
- Guests can enjoy the charming atmosphere, exceptional breakfast, and impeccable cleanliness, as praised in numerous reviews.
- The hotel’s Persian architectural heritage and proximity to key attractions like the Dubai Museum and Gold Souk enhance the cultural experience.
- Amenities include free WiFi, airport shuttle, and wheelchair accessibility, catering to the comfort of all guests.
Hotel Overview and Location
The XVA Art Hotel is located in the historic Al Fahidi Neighborhood of Bur Dubai, UAE, a prime spot that’s rated 9.2/10 based on 581 reviews for its excellent location.
Situated in a car-free area, the hotel has Persian architectural heritage and maze-like alleyways, with the Dubai Creek nearby.
Key attractions like the Dubai Museum, Gold Souk, and Abra are within a 10-minute walk.
The hotel occupies the former home of the Seddiqi family, making it the only hotel in this unique, pedestrian-friendly district.
Accommodations and Facilities
Offering 14 uniquely decorated guest rooms, XVA Art Hotel showcases the artistic talents of regional designers. Each room features air conditioning, private bathrooms, and tea/coffee making facilities.
The hotel’s facilities include free WiFi, an airport shuttle, family rooms, a restaurant, non-smoking rooms, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. Guests have rated the hotel’s cleanliness at 8.9, comfort at 8.8, and facilities at 8.6.
The central courtyard boasts an award-winning café serving vegetarian gourmet cuisine and fresh fruit juices. With its charming atmosphere and artistic décor, XVA Art Hotel provides a peaceful haven for guests.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Guests have awarded XVA Art Hotel an overall rating of 8.7 based on 583 reviews, with the staff earning an impressive 9.4 score.
Guests appreciated the hotel’s charming atmosphere, peaceful ambiance, and artistic decor.
Key highlights included:
- Exceptional breakfast quality
- Impeccable cleanliness
- Friendly and attentive staff
Couples were especially enamored, rating the location a remarkable 9.3 for romantic getaways.
While the facilities earned an 8.6 score, guests consistently praised the hotel’s unique character and cultural offerings, cementing its status as a must-visit destination in Dubai.
Owner and Cultural Significance
Mona Hauser, the owner, opened the XVA Art Hotel in 2003 to create an art-oriented haven. The hotel supports local artists and hosts cultural programs, including the SIKKA Art Fair.
XVA Gallery participates in international art fairs, promoting Middle Eastern art. The hotel give you a unique experience, merging heritage and contemporary art.
It’s the only hotel in a car-free area in Dubai, occupying the former home of the Seddiqi family. The hotel’s Persian architectural heritage, maze-like alleyways, and proximity to the Creek contribute to its cultural significance.
Additional Services and Activities
Aside from its artistic ambiance, the XVA Art Hotel provides an array of additional services and activities for guests.
Visitors can rent bicycles to explore the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood. The hotel also offers themed dinner nights and wellness services like yoga and massages.
Plus, guests can enjoy temporary art galleries, movie nights, and evening entertainment. The hotel caters to all needs, providing amenities such as luggage storage, currency exchange, and daily housekeeping.
With its focus on accessibility, the XVA Art Hotel accommodates wheelchair users and disabled guests, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
Nearby Attractions and Excursions
The XVA Art Hotel’s prime location in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood puts a host of fascinating attractions within easy reach.
Guests can stroll to the Dubai Museum in just 5 minutes, seeing the city’s rich heritage. The vibrant Gold Souk, a 10-minute walk away, enthralls with its dazzling displays of gold jewelry.
Another must-visit is the Abra, the traditional water taxi that ferries passengers across the Creek, also just 10 minutes from the hotel.
Beyond these local gems, the hotel can arrange excursions to explore Dubai’s iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, or venture further afield to the desert for dune bashing and camel riding.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
What truly makes the XVA Art Hotel stand out is its exceptional dining and culinary experiences.
The hotel’s central courtyard is home to an award-winning café that serves up vegetarian gourmet cuisine and fresh fruit juices. Guests rave about the quality of the breakfast, with its vibrant flavors and diverse offerings.
Beyond the café, the hotel also hosts themed dinner nights, providing visitors a unique opportunity to indulge in the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Whether it’s the mouthwatering vegetarian dishes, the refreshing juices, or the immersive cultural experiences, the XVA Art Hotel’s dining offerings are a true highlight of any stay.
Artistic Offerings and Exhibitions
At the heart of the XVA Art Hotel lies its deep commitment to the arts. The hotel’s owners have transformed the historic property into an art-centric haven, showcasing the vibrant works of regional artists.
The XVA Gallery, located within the hotel, participates in international art fairs, promoting Middle Eastern art to global audiences. Guests can enjoy temporary art exhibitions, movie nights, and evening cultural programs, all of which aim to provide a truly unique experience.
The hotel’s support for local creatives extends beyond the walls, as it hosts the renowned SIKKA Art Fair, further solidifying its position as a hub for artistic expression in Dubai.
Questions About Your Stay
What Are the Hotel’s Sustainability Practices?
The hotel has several sustainability practices, such as using renewable energy sources, implementing water-saving measures, and promoting recycling. It also supports local artists and cultural programs, aligning with its commitment to sustainable tourism.
Are Pets Allowed at the XVA Art Hotel?
Based on the information provided, there’s no mention of the XVA Art Hotel allowing pets. The hotel likely doesn’t accommodate pets, as it’s focused on providing a unique art-oriented experience for its guests.
What Languages Are Spoken by the Hotel Staff?
The hotel staff speaks English, Arabic, and other languages to accommodate the international guests. They’re multilingual, making it easy for travelers from various backgrounds to communicate and have their needs addressed.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Specialized Tours or Activities?
The hotel offers various specialized activities and tours. Guests can rent bicycles to explore the local area, join cultural tours, attend themed dinner nights, and enjoy wellness services like yoga and massage.
What Are the Check-In and Check-Out Times at the Hotel?
The check-in time is 2:00 PM, and the check-out time is 12:00 PM. Guests are advised to plan their arrival and departure accordingly to make the most of their stay at the hotel.
Final Verdict On This Stay
Tucked away in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, the XVA Art Hotel offers a refreshing contrast to Dubai’s glitzy skyscrapers. This boutique gem seamlessly blends contemporary art with traditional Emirati architecture, creating a haven for culture enthusiasts and weary travelers alike.
The hotel’s 14 individually decorated rooms transport guests to a world where creativity reigns supreme. Each space tells its own story, adorned with unique artworks and design elements that reflect Dubai’s rich heritage. The award-winning café serves up delectable local and international cuisine, perfect for refueling after a day of exploration.
Art lovers will rejoice in the hotel’s cultural programs and exhibitions, while those seeking relaxation can unwind in the peaceful courtyard. With its prime location, the XVA Art Hotel provides easy access to nearby attractions, allowing visitors to enjoy the heart of old Dubai.
For travelers craving an authentic and inspiring stay in the Emirates, the XVA Art Hotel hits all the right notes. It’s a perfect choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway or solo adventurers looking to dive deep into local culture.
Ready to experience this artistic oasis for yourself? Click the button below to book through Booking.com, a reliable platform offering competitive rates and often free cancellation options. Happy travels!