The Majlis Gallery has its origins in the 1970s when Alison Collins arrived in Dubai. Drawn to the unique charm and cultural richness of the city, she purchased a traditional wind-tower house in the Al Fahidi district. Over time, this house became a hub for artists, intellectuals, and art enthusiasts, embodying the essence of a “majlis” — a traditional Arab meeting place, where people come together to discuss and share ideas. Recognizing the potential to create a formal space dedicated to art, Alison and her collaborators transformed this space into The Majlis Gallery. Opening its doors in 1989, their vision was to establish a gallery that would not only exhibit art but also serve as a cultural hub where artists could interact with the community and with each other, fostering a deeper appreciation for art in Dubai.