Dubai’s coolest new district- BOXPARK

Londoners watch out – a little taste of home is about to open on your Dubai doorstep in the form of a new ‘pop-up’ mall made out of shipping containers. Looks-wise, BOXPARK comes with more than a nod to the indie shopping stretch in Shoreditch, known by the same name. Located on Al Wasl Road around the corner from City Walk outdoor mall, the district will be home to boutiques and delis.

Representations from the world over, including New York, London, Paris, Oslo and Christchurch, will all be present on the 1,200-metre stretch. The 220 industrial containers will, at full capacity, contain up to 44 high-end outlets.

Last month, the new spot received the sign of approval from UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who was given a guided tour as finishing touches were applied.

What’s On has also had a snoop around ahead of the opening this month.

Adidas OriginalsA retail space dedicated to the famous sports brand’s fashion line, which can count Pharrell Williams among the legions of ambassadors. We were told this would be the largest store of its kind in the MENA region.

NikeTrekking through the mall to get to a sports shop can feel like a workout in itself, so we rather like the idea of the easy access of Nike’s newest branch in the city. It’s retail therapy with a healthy reason behind it.

OnePieceAll hail the comfiness of the onesie, and in particular one from the original creators OnePiece. The Norwegian brand that made the onesie hip is opening its first store in Dubai. Catering to men, women, kids (and even pets) this is the destination for the ultimate in leisurewear.

The Zoo ConceptIf you haven’t heard of The Zoo Concept as your go-to boutique for out there gifts, you’ve probably been living under a rock. With two branches already on Jumeirah Beach Road and Souk Al Bahar, the third boutique is set to continue to bring you not only unusual gifts but clothing, jewellery and accessories.

Toms
Californian-based ethical marketplace specialising in fashion but offering a casual place to grab a coffee between purchases. The company started with the premise that each item bought will aim to help those less well off who had helped create it.

RundholzContemporary German label Rundholz is hurtling its way to Dubai armed with a collection that will have the fashion savvy’s pulses racing. Predict clever tailoring, unusual lines and pieces you most definitely won’t find on the high street.

SwatchIf you grew up in the 1990s chances are you owned a Swatch watch. Snap up an affordable piece of Swiss craftsmanship and relive being the coolest kid in class all over again.

Yamaha CafeThis one is for petrol heads, and specifically lovers of two wheels. Food and drink surround by motorcycle paraphernalia.

Big Smoke BurgerNo doubt ready to make a play for late addition to our February cover story on the best burgers in Dubai, this Toronto burger joint has developed a fine reputation Stateside for its curious menu that features 14 kind of burgers as well as fries with cheese curd and gravy. 

Dri DriPriding itself as having the best Italian gelato outside the sweet treat’s homeland, Dri Dri has made waves on JBR with its ‘healthy’ offerings. Expect more of the same at this new location.