How Abu Dhabi Is Paving the Way for a New Generation of Tastemakers
Hypebeast goes behind the city’s cultural boom in a new episode of ‘Travel Series.’
It doesn’t take a globe-trotter or an in-the-know local to be aware of the grand transformation Abu Dhabi has been undergoing over the past few years. New museums, galleries and institutions have been popping up across the city as well as a range of sporting events, including Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the NBA Abu Dhabi Games, that have gone on to attract die-hard fan communities.
As Abu Dhabi continues to grow in something of a new-age revolution, Hypebeast takes a trip to the metropolis to find out more about its widespread appeal. With various designers, sportspeople and professionals relocating to the city, we’re accompanied by a collective of creatives and tastemakers who have called Abu Dhabi their home for several years, including award-winning chef Marwan Charaf, filmmaker Omar Almahri, community leader Osama Mutasem, and content creator Rahma Ahmed.
Representing the new voices in the city, they uncover the diverse cultural hotspots that have shaped who they are. And, while hang_w.me founder Mutasem admits that “social media has made it hard to meet like-minded people organically,” he commends the endless variety of physical spaces for their work in bringing communities together. Like others in his space, this has come to fruition in collaborations, creative projects and the establishment of new fashion labels that are now globally recognized.
To find out more about the respective hotspots paving the way for the next generation, keep reading the Travel Series below.
Erth
Erth, the first Michelin-awarded Emirati restaurant, showcases locally sourced ingredients in a refreshingly refined format. As a regular diner at the spot, Charaf shares, “Erth is highlighting Emirati cuisine but in a way that can also get Michelin stars.”
Erth Restaurant
North Parking
Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
NIRI
Continuing on his culinary journey, Charaf hits up Japanese dining experience NIRI, located on the shores of Saadiyat Island. With the chef explaining that the city has “a lot of cuisines that exist and merge together,” NIRI is a testament to its evolving food scene with influences taken from around the Middle East region.
NIRI Restaurant
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Jubail Mangrove Park
Within Abu Dhabi’s eye-catching architectural landscape are pockets of nature, including Jubail Mangrove Park. If, like Almahri, you are in need of an escape from the city, the reserve can act as a source of inspiration, with the filmmaker saying, “There are lots of different things in one place, but the different textures of Abu Dhabi really add to what I do.”
Jubail Mangrove Park
Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi
421 Arts Campus
A living, breathing creative hub, 421 Arts Campus provides a place for creative development, where artists can showcase their work in dedicated exhibitions. Almahri and Mutasem are two of the creatives who have benefited since its opening, calling it their “creative home and hangout” for the past five years.
421 Arts Campus
Zayed Port
Freezone, Abu Dhabi
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
This journey through experiential digital art installations was designed by teamLab – the acclaimed Japanese art collective creating immersive experiences around the world. The teamLab Phenomena space typifies their portfolio with its vibrant light showcases that engulf every visitor who walks through its doors.
teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Cultural District
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
The Lighthouse
On the Yas Bay waterfront, you’ll find Mediterranean restaurant The Lighthouse. More than just a fine dining spot, it serves as a plush meeting point for creatives to try experimental bites and observe artwork while exchanging new ideas.
The Lighthouse Restaurant and Bar
Yas Bay Waterfront
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
FOUNT
For style tastemaker Ahmed, concept stores like FOUNT have allowed her to “stay inspired and experiment while still representing who [she] is.” Among its portfolio of international brands are Vitra, Artek and Snow Peak, who bring an array of new design goods to the sleek and sophisticated retail space.
FOUNT
Al Muzoun
Khor Al Maqta’a, Abu Dhabi
