Bait Elowal is most definitely best experienced through the senses.

Meticulously thought out, it is one of those places you need to visit a few times to truly take in each detail. Its spirit is hard to capture in words, and therefore, the trip to Sharjah to see it for yourself is well worth it. 

Located in the heart of the Emirate, Bait Elowal is an eclectic concept space that pays homage to the history of the region. This ‘House of the Traveller’ (Elowal translates to ‘traveller’ in the Emirati dialect) is an ode to the merchants who traversed the Silk Road, returning with goods and spices. True to its name, it’s a showcase of flavours and products sourced from Asian countries along the historic travel network. Conceived by Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, the idea was to create a place that honours Sharjah’s rich history as a trading hub. 

Situated in a villa over 100 years old that has been lovingly restored, Bait Elowal maintains its traditional architectural integrity. Thick walls surround a central courtyard, which has been paved with green Moroccan Zellige tiles. 

While colourful rugs from Jaipur line the rooms off the courtyard, regional artwork is in rotation on the walls. Soghat Elowal, the on-site boutique, showcases ethically sourced pieces that celebrate traditional craftsmanship and slow fashion. 

Curated by Sheikha Bodour herself, the items for sale span books, trinkets, art, and crystals. Each piece has seemingly been hand-picked for the story it brings with it. Luckily, everything you see is for sale, so when you inevitably fall in love with something, you can take it home with you. 

The menu at Bait Elowal is a tribute to the UAE’s historical role as a cultural crossroads. Each dish is made using local ingredients and spices from Morocco, Persia, India, and Turkey. Telling a story of how travellers brought spices from their journeys and infused them with culinary techniques from the Emirates, the culinary creations here are unique and packed with flavour.

A multifaceted cultural experience that will soon host dinner clubs, yoga classes, and sound-healing workshops, Bait Elowal’s story is unfolding as we speak. 

Visit baitelowal.com