The intellectual’s guide to the Arts Club in DIFC

• The Arts Club
• Things To Do
• FAQs

London’s beloved The Arts Club now has a home in Dubai! This club is a space for individuals passionate about the arts, literature or the sciences to come together, exchange ideas, dine and relax. If you’ve got a renaissance man within you or are an intellectual at heart, here’s your guide to the Arts Club Dubai.

What is The Arts Club?

The original The Arts Club in London was established in 1863, providing a haven for literature, science and art enthusiasts. Several renowned artists and writers have been members here, including Charles Dickens, Frederic Leighton and Thomas Hughes.

The Arts Club Dubai International Financial Centre offers a similar appeal to the intellectuals of Dubai, providing a unique platform for members to entertain, dine and exchange ideas.

The facility, designed by Foster & Partners, is spread across an impressive 65,000 sq. ft. and features four floors. With hospitality and elegance at its core, the club features three restaurants, several private event spaces and cocktail bars.

Things to do at The Arts Club

From making new acquaintances and enjoying spectacular dining options to attending a rich cultural programme and dancing the night away, there are many benefits for the members of The Arts Club.

Here’s what the members can indulge in at this stylish establishment:

Club Parties

The Arts Club celebrates seasonal events throughout the year through parties and festivities for members only. A mix of events is hosted here, such as cultural programmes, food and drink tastings, music, and even comedy shows.

Visit the rooftop

The opulent rooftop at The Arts Club Dubai is a 2000 sq. m. outdoor space that serves as a relaxing retreat. It is a late-night lounge with spectacular views of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

On the rooftop, there’s a nightclub called Vega that’s very inspired by the 70’s and guarantees a great time. There’s a cigar lounge called Oscuro on the fifth floor where you can try the finest Cuban cigars.

Food and drinks

Members can have breakfast, lunch and dinner at The Arts Club Dubai. The following restaurants offer high-quality dining for all tastes:

Oscuro Kitchen

Oscuro also offers seasonal menus with dishes to delight. This season, it’s Mexican, focusing on the vibrant flavours and spices. You can also indulge in a nice cocktail while here.

Ofelia

This elegant Italian restaurant is a family favourite, with options that showcase Italy’s best culinary simplicity. The classic Italian fare, made with the freshest and best produce, proves that the club spares no quarter for the comfort of its members.

Brasserie

Inspired by the London club’s beloved restaurant, Brasserie operates as the club’s “engine room” and is open from early morning till late evening. Try the best medieval flavours and bold cooking techniques, as upscale establishment upholds the highest dining and ambience standards.

Rōhen

A space offering Japanese and Peruvian flavours, Rōhen has a menu full of balanced flavours. They create a theatrical dining experience that comes in with colours, flamboyance and style.

FAQs

What membership types are available at the club?

Those interested can choose from four types of memberships at The Arts Club Dubai:

• Full: Available to applicants aged 30 and above.
• Second: Available for spouses of Full Members.
• Young: Available for persons under the age of 30.
• International: This can be an add-on to Full, Second and Young membership. It will include access to The Arts Club branches in London and Los Angeles.

For a better perspective, here’s an overview of membership fees:

How do I apply for a membership at The Arts Club Dubai?

Those interested in becoming fully-fledged members at The Arts Club in DIFC can fill out and submit an online form on their official website. A full review of membership rates can also be found on the website.

How do I contact the club, and where is it located?

Here is the address and contact information of The Arts Club Dubai:

• Location: ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, Dubai
• Contact: +971-4-350-6506

What are the opening hours at The Arts Club Dubai?

You may visit the club during these times:

• Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 08:00 am to 02:00 pm
  • Friday: 08:00 am to 03:00 am
  • Saturday: 10:00 am to 03:00 am
  • Sunday: 10:00 am to 02:00 am

Is there a dress code?

All members at The Arts Club Dubai are required to dress appropriately during visits. Local clothes are only allowed in the cigar lounge but not at the late-night lounges and bars. Additionally:

• Gym attire, shorts, beachwear, ‘overly revealing’ attire, t-shirts with brands, slogans, or graphics or are overly tight, sports clothes, backpacks, hats (baseball, beanie, etc) are not permitted
• Jeans are allowed as long as they are not torn or scruffy.
• Those who want to wear collar-less shirts must accompany their attire with a jacket or blazer.
• Flip-flops are not allowed, but members may wear elegant and smart sandals.

It is important to note that members who follow the dress code but do not appear well-presented may be refused entry. Children are welcome over the weekend, provided they are appropriately attired.

Can members bring guests to the club?

Up to three guests are allowed per member at The Arts Club Dubai unless a member makes a dining reservation or books a private party in advance for more than the allowable guest capacity.

Guests are also required to stay with members while in the club. They must wait in the reception area if they arrive before the member.

What if my guests are under 18?

Guests under 18 are allowed to visit the club with a member (parent or guardian) during these days and times:

• Days: Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays in the UAE
• Timings: Between 08.00 am to 05:00 pm for those under 12, and from 08.00 am to 09:00 pm for those aged 12 – 17

That concludes our guide to The Arts Club Dubai. Arts aside, those who prefer active pursuits may consider applying for a membership at The Els Club, a golf club in Dubai Sports City. If you can’t visit the restaurants at The Arts Club Dubai, the best restaurants in DIFC are well worth your time and taste buds.

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(Cover image credit: The Arts Club Dubai)