The interiors blend Emirati fusion cuisine with design inspired by local culture. The venue is set within a building from 1987 featuring traditional Emirati architecture, thoughtfully updated to preserve its original character. Now transformed into a sophisticated, contemporary space, Gerbou accommodates almost 200 guests across indoor and outdoor dining areas, offering a casual ambiance by day and an elegant fine-dining spot at night.
The design of the interior and outdoor dining spaces, envisioned by Kristina Zanic Consultants, celebrates UAE culture and heritage with a focus on sustainability and community. Drawing inspiration from traditional crafts, local flora and fauna, and the UAE’s maritime history, the design integrates artisanal details, sustainable materials, and modern craftsmanship.
The interiors are characterized by a harmonious blend of natural materials, brushed metallic accents, and tactile finishes. Fluid forms and locally inspired patterns combine with warm neutral tones accented by rich hues of amber, emerald, and teal. Special attention was given to ensuring a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, which are unified by a consistent aesthetic.
Guests are greeted in a striking double-height foyer, with arched windows letting in a soft, natural light. The reception desk, crafted from a naturaly fallen Ghaf tree-trunk, sets the tone, alongside a dramatic Plypalm screen - created by local designer Lina Ghalib from dried palm branches. A chandelier from Lasvit’s Herbarium collection completes the scene, featuring hand-blown crystal with gold-leaf imprints of leaves. The foyer also showcases a sculptural mesh enclosure inspired by traditional fishing nets, featuring a local geometric pattern and crafted from recycled materials.
Inside, the dining area features a variety of seating options, including a mocktail bar with an embossed liquid metal bronze relief of a Ghaf tree, symbolically bringing people together under its ‘shade’. This motif, envisioned by the Tanween by Tashkeel art and design collective, is thoughtfully woven into details such as door handles, seat cushions, and custom plateware designed by Tashkeel and made by RAK Porcelain.
A braided fibre treatment on the ceiling and white marble terrazzo flooring complete the space, evoking an outdoor feel. The space is illuminated with soft, warm lighting, with architectural light fixtures provided by Huda Lighting.
The furniture, all locally produced, blends contemporary design with Emirati influences, with several pieces crafted in collaboration with Tashkeel. Local artistry is further showcased in elements like a biodegradable, henna-dyed chandelier by Wafa Al Falahi.
This design approach extends to the washrooms, where the UAE’s fishing and pearl-diving heritage is celebrated. Custom wallpaper, hand-drawn by local artist Steve Chambers from The Big Art Co, depicts local fish, while a rippled bronze ceiling evokes the shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf. The custom floor tiles feature a modern abstract fish pattern, adding a contemporary monochromatic twist. An elegant pendant light commissioned by Tashkeel to Reema Al Mheiri and designed using discarded fish scales serves as another example of the venue’s sustainable ethos.
The outdoor dining space offers a tranquil escape during cooler months, featuring another spacious dry bar, a sunken fire-pit conversation area, and semi-private spaces framed by sculptural screens - all set amidst native landscaping. Details like the heritage ‘Dubai Pattern’ breeze-block behind the bar, reminiscent of traditional vernacular architecture, lend an authentic and nostalgic touch.
