It’s hardly surprising that, with around 200 nationalities residing in Dubai, international design influences are making their mark on the city with a growing cadre of cool concept stores.
Popular creative hub Dubai Design District (d3) is home to some of the best, chiefly The Cartel (+971 55 725 1189). Founded by May Barber, it champions emerging and talented designers from around the world, including exclusives from international fashion brands.
Equally edgy is O Concept Store (+971 4 345 5557) in Jumeirah, which combines fashion and art and attracts young and passionate designers, artists and collectors from all over the world.
The Edit (+971 4 332 0324), housed in a converted villa on Al Wasl Road,stocks choice ready-to-wear from cult clothing brands, including Paper London, Acler and AQ/AQ, plus statement jewellery, accessories and beauty products. There's also a fab
coffee bar downstairs and pop-ups, and art exhibitions upstairs.
Following 15 years in Jeddah, multi-brand concept store Lilis has opened its doors at City Walk (+971 55 956 7026), offering a curated selection of pieces from acclaimed designers from around the world, with a focus on bohemian luxe through a modest lens.
With a flagship store at City Walk 2, Bambah (+971 55 224 1538) is the place to go for statement pieces guaranteed to inject some fun into your wardrobe – think generous ruffles, oversized bows and colourful floral prints. The brainchild of UAE-based designer Maha Abdul Rasheed, it's easy to see why stars such as Emma Roberts are fans.
For obscure vinyl junkies, Dubai's only independent record store. The Flip Side (+971 4 221 6830) be found in Al Serkal Avenue. As well as housing multiple decks on which to spin your tune of choice, the store screens music documentaries and holds music-related talks.
