Dubai’s iconic Majlis Gallery to close down

The landmark Majlis Gallery in Bur Dubai’s Al Fahidi neighbourhood is closing down. But the founder of the 40-year-old absorbing art house- Alison Collins said there is no remorse.

Regarded as a slice of precious history in an increasingly modern landscape, the Majlis Gallery had striven to preserve its old world charm. But with funds depleting, things had been building towards a closure for the past eight years.

“Nothing goes on forever,” Alison said. “Life is full of beginnings and endings. The important thing is to be in control of the ending. I am winding up the gallery by the end of October with wonderful memories and experiences, without any regrets whatsoever.”

Alison said she is planning on holding a “swan song sale” ahead of its closure. “The sale will be from September 26 to October 16 and everything in the gallery will be sold at at least half-price. We have on board 60 artists, 50 of whose works will be available at the sale,” she added.