Dubai has a new stop for art lovers and luxury collectors. Sotheby’s has unveiled its new gallery in DIFC, and the opening exhibition is free for anyone to walk into.
Sotheby’s Settles Into Gate Village
The auction house launched the space on 28 October, ten years after it first set up a permanent presence in the UAE. It sits in Gate Village and brings together contemporary art, luxury watches, fine jewellery, designer handbags and collectable cars under one roof.
For anyone who has only ever watched auctions from a distance, this is a rare chance to look at serious pieces without a bidding paddle or an entry fee.
What You Can See Inside
Art
The walls feature works from the private collection of Dubai-based collector Elie Khouri. Artists include Amoako Boafo, George Condo, Stanley Whitney, Günther Förg and Alighiero Boetti.
Watches and jewellery
Watch fans can get close to three Patek Philippe pieces. One is a platinum chronograph designed for left-handed wearers, another is a limited-production stainless-steel model, and the third was made to mark the brand’s 175th anniversary.
The jewellery is just as eye-catching. A Cartier necklace from 1939, set with Burmese rubies and diamonds, is among the highlights. You can also find out about Sotheby’s Bespoke service, which lets clients design personalised jewellery using exceptional gemstones. A nine-carat Old Mine Golconda diamond is one of them.
Handbags
Fashion collectors should look out for the Hermès selection, which includes the much-chased Birkin 30 Himalaya.
The Vintage F1 Car
Petrolheads have a reason to drop by too. A 1971 Surtees TS9B Formula 1 car is on display and being offered for private sale. It was driven by John Surtees and Mike Hailwood, and finished second at the 1972 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. Under the bodywork sits a Ford-Cosworth V8 engine, giving visitors a close look at an important chapter of Formula 1 history, whether or not they’re in the market to buy.
Parked alongside is a limited-edition Colnago bicycle, created with Ferrari to mark the carmaker’s 60th anniversary.
That mix of art, watches, jewellery, fashion and motorsport makes the gallery an easy detour if you work in or around DIFC.
Also Read: Plan Your Next Coffee Date At Dubai’s Mille Miglia Gallery & Café, Home To A Real Ferrari F1 Car
Plan Your Visit
Where: Gate Village, Building 10, Podium Level, Unit 3, DIFC
When: Monday to Friday, 10am to 7pm
Cost: Free entry
Cover Image Courtesy: DIFC/Website
FAQs
What can you see at the Sotheby’s DIFC gallery?
Highlights include works from collector Elie Khouri’s private collection, three Patek Philippe watches, a 1939 Cartier necklace, a Hermès Birkin 30 Himalaya and a 1971 Surtees TS9B Formula 1 car.
Is the vintage F1 car for sale?
Yes. The 1971 Surtees TS9B is being offered for private sale. Pricing wasn’t included in the announcement, so enquire with the gallery directly.
Where is the new Sotheby’s gallery in Dubai?
It is in Gate Village, DIFC, at Building 10, Podium Level, Unit 3.
