In pictures: Alserkal Avenue expansion

Although the first galleries in Alserkal Avenue opened their doors in late 2007, the economic crash of 2008 slowed down business and even after that, it took a while before the creative community became familiar with the destination. Antonie Robertson / The National Life

But now, a steady stream of people wind their way around the avenue and, according to the founder and developer, Abdelmonem bin Eisa Alserkal, demand to rent the space is higher than ever. Antonie Robertson / The National

As well as doubling the number of warehouses, the new extension will also house food and beverage outlets, an events centre and a large car park, which is one of the more pressing needs as the number of visitors increases. Courtesy Alserkal Avenue

If there is one thing that is clear when talking to Alserkal, it is his commitment to the artistic population of Dubai and the wider UAE. When the project began in 2007, it was his vision, he explains, to recreate the spirit of Shoreditch in London’s East End or Manhattan’s Meatpacking District in New York. Antonie Robertson / The National

One of the first galleries to set up shop in Alserkal Avenue was Ayyam, the gallery owned by the Syrian cousins Khaled and Hisham Samawi, which now has six branches worldwide. Antonie Robertson / The National

Carbon 12, known for its programme of institution-grade artists and Gallery Isabelle Van Den Eynde (Gallery IVDE), founded in 2006, were the other two there from the beginning. Antonie Robertson / The National

“I am really proud of where we have reached,” says founder and developer Abdelmonem bin Eisa Alserkal, who travels to the international art fairs to support the Alserkal Avenue galleries. “It gives me more encouragement to support.” Courtesy Alserkal Avenue

Also, although its popularity is on the rise, Alserkal is determined to keep his personal connection with each institution. Courtesy Alserkal Avenue

Located in Dubai, Alserkal Avenue will be undergoing an expansion doubling in size starting at the beginning of next year.