Inside Abu Dhabi’s Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East’s Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors

Post Published November 10, 2024

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Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Abu Dhabi's First Licensed Craft Beer Made On-Site at The Galleria





The Galleria on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi has a new attraction: Craft by Side Hustle, the emirate's first officially licensed craft beer brewery. Scheduled to open its doors on February 2, 2024, it's also a first for the entire UAE as a commercially-operating beer brewery. The facility promises a wide array of craft beers, potentially up to 75 different hop varieties, brewed on-site. The brewery's creators envision a community atmosphere, blending fresh brews with a distinctive culinary focus on Southern gastropub and Cajun fare, indicating a growing trend towards locally crafted alcoholic drinks and dining experiences. The brewery's existence is a result of recent changes to Abu Dhabi's regulatory framework, now allowing licensed producers to ferment alcoholic beverages within the city. The brewery's extended operating hours, from 11 am to 1 am during the week and until 3 am on weekends, should attract a variety of patrons, offering options for both a casual lunch or a late-night outing. It remains to be seen if this initial foray into locally brewed craft beer will succeed, but it indicates a potential shift in the region's dining and drinking culture.

The Galleria on Al Maryah Island now houses Abu Dhabi's first on-site craft beer operation, a notable development in the region's beverage scene. The brewery employs a cold fermentation technique, resulting in a crisp taste profile potentially favored by those who enjoy lagers. Interestingly, the brewery uses locally sourced ingredients, like barley from within the UAE, giving the beer a unique character distinct from more common imported brews. The brewing process utilizes advanced equipment with meticulous temperature controls, ensuring consistency in each batch—a hallmark of a serious brewer.

They don't stick to widely known hops. Instead, they experiment with lesser-known cultivars, aiming for a unique set of flavors that craft beer enthusiasts value. Even the water used in the brewing process undergoes onsite treatment and filtration, allowing for precise manipulation of the mineral content and pH, which has a considerable effect on the resulting beer.

Their approach focuses on smaller batches, enabling the release of seasonal and limited-edition beers, which could prove to be attractive for regulars seeking novelty. The brewery's design integrates the brewing process into the experience, with visitors able to watch the beer being made through viewing windows. This offers an interesting combination of dining and behind-the-scenes glimpses of beer production.

Instead of forced carbonation, they employ a more traditional natural process, potentially contributing to a smoother mouthfeel and fuller flavor, qualities that many craft beer aficionados appreciate. The launch of this facility marks a change in the local beer landscape as it contrasts with the previously import-dominated market within the UAE. They cleverly combine traditional brewing skills with modern technology, an approach essential for creating premium craft beers. This hybrid approach underscores a balance between heritage and innovation.

What else is in this post?

  1. Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Abu Dhabi's First Licensed Craft Beer Made On-Site at The Galleria
  2. Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - What To Drink The New Al Maryah Island Brewery Serves Fresh IPA and Wheat Beer
  3. Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Late Night Food and Beer Pairings Inside The Galleria's New Gastropub
  4. Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Tuesday Quiz Nights and Comedy Shows Draw Local Crowds to CRAFT
  5. Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Direct Access From Cleveland Clinic and Four Seasons Through Air Conditioned Walkways
  6. Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Weekly Food Specials and Happy Hour Deals at The Middle East's Newest Brewery

Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - What To Drink The New Al Maryah Island Brewery Serves Fresh IPA and Wheat Beer





Inside Abu Dhabi’s Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East’s Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors

The arrival of Craft by Side Hustle at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island signifies a notable shift in Abu Dhabi's beverage scene. This new brewery, the first of its kind in the emirate, focuses on fresh, locally-inspired beers, including IPAs and wheat beers. They deviate from the norm by utilizing local ingredients, which lends their brews a unique character that distinguishes them from more conventional imported beers. Beyond the beer itself, Craft by Side Hustle intends to foster a community atmosphere through events and a menu that complements their brews.

The brewery's commitment to innovation is not limited to the flavors they create. They also emphasize a transparent approach to beer production, inviting patrons to witness the brewing process firsthand through strategically placed viewing windows. This gives them a unique edge, as it's not simply a place to enjoy a drink but a venue that incorporates the brewing process as part of the experience. While it remains to be seen if this venture will resonate with local tastes long-term, it undeniably introduces a novel element to the Abu Dhabi dining and drinking experience, blending modern brewing technology with a commitment to more traditional methods. It's a unique approach in a region dominated by imported beers, and its potential for success could well mark a turning point for locally-made beverages.

The Al Maryah Island Brewery, known as Craft by Side Hustle, is notable for its use of locally sourced barley, a rarity in the UAE's brewing scene. Most craft breweries globally rely on imported grains, yet this facility champions local agriculture, a factor influencing the beer's flavor.

Interestingly, they employ a cold fermentation approach, a process that leads to a distinct taste profile, appealing to a wide range of beer drinkers. Many breweries prioritize warmer fermentation for ales, but their approach offers a distinctive flavor and brewing engineering strategy.

Their onsite water treatment and filtration system allows for precision in controlling mineral content and pH, influencing the final flavor of the brew. This keen attention to detail, scientifically adjusting the beer's environment, is crucial as even minor changes can significantly impact the taste.

They veer away from standard hop varieties and embrace less-common cultivars, offering potentially novel taste experiences. This approach is intriguing for craft beer aficionados, whose desire for unusual flavors aligns perfectly with the brewery's experimental focus.

Their strategy involves producing smaller batches, facilitating seasonal and limited-edition beers. This caters to beer drinkers who appreciate novelty and exclusivity, which have become key elements in the craft beer sector.

The brewery design seamlessly integrates the brewing process into the customer experience with viewing windows. This provides patrons with both an educational and entertaining glimpse into how beer is made, enhancing the overall visit.

They rely on natural carbonation techniques rather than the forced carbonation common in many mass-produced beers. This contributes to a smoother, more nuanced flavor profile, potentially appealing to craft beer purists.

The brewery utilizes advanced brewing equipment, specifically temperature control systems that ensure consistent batch quality. This degree of precision is a hallmark of serious craft brewers, highlighting their commitment to high-quality products.

With a potential range of up to 75 different hop varieties, this brewery has the potential to be a regional hub for hop innovation and research. This extensive selection represents a wide-ranging palette of possible flavors for curious beer researchers and enthusiasts.

The brewery's opening reflects a change in consumer behavior within the UAE, suggesting a growing trend toward appreciating locally produced craft beers. This could signify a broader shift in local tastes and could have substantial repercussions for the region's hospitality industry, potentially impacting economic dynamics and the consumption habits of the population.



Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Late Night Food and Beer Pairings Inside The Galleria's New Gastropub





The Galleria Al Maryah Island now offers a new late-night option with Craft by Side Hustle, a gastropub blending a Southern US-inspired menu with a wide selection of locally crafted beers. This gastropub, with its emphasis on smoked meats and a lively atmosphere enhanced by live music events, provides a relaxed setting for those seeking an after-hours culinary experience. The on-site brewery boasts a diverse range of up to 75 different craft beers, creating a unique pairing opportunity for a variety of tastes. This new venture not only injects a fresh perspective into Abu Dhabi's beverage scene but also aims to build a social setting that celebrates flavorful food and unique beer creations. By combining comfort food with locally brewed craft beers, the gastropub offers an enticing experience that appeals to both local and international visitors. Whether it's a late-night bite or a chance to explore a wide array of unique beers, the gastropub aims to be a go-to destination for those seeking a diverse, flavorful experience.

The Galleria's new gastropub, CRAFT by Side Hustle, offers a compelling space to explore the intersection of late-night food and beer pairings. The unique aspect of this gastropub is the on-site craft brewery, the first in Abu Dhabi, specializing in Southern US fare alongside a diverse array of up to 75 craft beers. The combination of these elements presents an intriguing opportunity to examine the science behind how different beer styles can complement specific cuisines.

One area of study involves how the consumption of beer can interact with food at various times of the day. Specifically, the late-night consumption of food with beer can impact how quickly the body absorbs alcohol and could potentially affect the severity of any subsequent discomfort. This is tied to how carbohydrates within the meal can influence the absorption rate.

It's also interesting to consider the interplay between flavors. The spiciness of Cajun dishes, a core element of the gastropub's menu, may be effectively balanced by the fruity notes found in a hop-forward IPA. This synergy between flavors can enhance the taste of the entire experience.

Beyond flavor combinations, the presence of beer's carbonation can stimulate digestive processes, potentially improving the way food is processed in the body. This might be a factor for the gastropub's late-night clientele.

A fascinating detail of their approach is the use of naturally-occurring carbonation, which influences the texture and feel of the beer within the mouth. This type of carbonation is often preferred by beer aficionados due to the potential for a smoother mouthfeel, contributing to a more rounded flavor profile.

Further research could also examine how the chosen temperature at which a beer is served affects its taste. Each beer style has its optimal temperature range, with warmer temperatures being preferable for revealing aromatic nuances in IPAs. The science of beer temperature and flavor interaction could further elevate the overall food and drink experience within this setting.

Another factor linked to the perception of flavor is the beer's level of carbonation. The concentration of carbon dioxide affects the intensity of hop flavors like bitterness or malt sweetness. Knowing this could give patrons a greater appreciation for the science behind the chosen beer styles and their ideal pairings.

The use of local ingredients like barley also adds another dimension to the brewing experience. Consumers tend to associate locally sourced products with better flavor and quality, which may attract a segment of the population that values fresh, local items.

This new gastropub also provides insight into changing consumer trends within the region. The rise of craft breweries and the popularity of beer-centric experiences seem to be aligning with changes in taste. Moreover, social media now plays a major role in how these breweries can build a community around their offerings. The online communication of pairings and the story behind the beer production process helps strengthen brand loyalty.

Furthermore, it's important to look at the chemistry of flavor combinations. Certain components within beer, like citrus or herbs, can chemically interact with compounds within food. This interaction, often known as flavor synergism, creates a more complex set of tastes, potentially elevating the entire meal.

The vast diversity of hops available can also have a major impact on the aromas and flavors produced. Experimenting with different hop cultivars and combining those with specific foods can create novel and delightful experiences.

In essence, CRAFT by Side Hustle creates a fascinating nexus of culinary, brewing, and consumer trends. This establishment's approach allows researchers and enthusiasts alike to deepen their understanding of beer pairings and the impact of food and drink interactions.



Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Tuesday Quiz Nights and Comedy Shows Draw Local Crowds to CRAFT





Inside Abu Dhabi’s Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East’s Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors

CRAFT by Side Hustle, nestled within The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, is quickly establishing itself as a lively gathering place. Their Tuesday trivia nights and comedy shows are drawing in locals, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The gastropub concept blends a diverse range of craft beers with Southern-inspired cuisine, offering a refreshing culinary experience in Abu Dhabi. CRAFT's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients elevates their offerings, demonstrating a willingness to adapt to the city's changing dining and drinking habits.

It's not just about the food and beer, though. CRAFT aims to foster a sense of community through these engaging events, encouraging locals to connect and unwind in a fun environment. The brewery's unique position as the first of its kind in the UAE presents an opportunity to reshape the local entertainment scene and offer a fresh alternative for those looking to enjoy a night out. While its future success is yet to be seen, the early signs suggest CRAFT could become a popular destination, perhaps even a catalyst for more craft beer experiences in the region. Their focus on locally sourced beers and creative brewing processes may well contribute to a shift towards more community-driven and innovative options within the Emirati nightlife scene.

CRAFT, Abu Dhabi's first licensed craft brewery located within The Galleria Al Maryah Island, has found a way to draw crowds beyond just its diverse range of beers. They've successfully built a following with a series of engaging events, including Tuesday quiz nights and stand-up comedy shows. These events serve as more than just entertainment – they act as social glue, bringing the community together in a relaxed setting.

The psychological appeal of quiz nights is undeniable. Engaging in trivia and friendly competition naturally promotes cognitive function, enhancing memory and focus. Meanwhile, comedy shows inject a dose of laughter, which research consistently shows to have positive health effects, such as stress reduction and a possible improvement in pain tolerance. These types of events, combined with the inherent social pleasure of sharing a craft beer with friends, effectively create a positive feedback loop, encouraging repeat visits.

The surroundings of CRAFT itself are likely a contributing factor to its popularity. The ambience of a gastropub, including lighting and background music, subtly influences the way people perceive the taste and enjoyment of the beer. The interplay between flavors is a science in itself, with combinations like smoky meats and hoppy IPAs providing a carefully considered balance for a more satisfying experience.

CRAFT's popularity is also indicative of wider trends. Microbreweries contribute to the economy by supporting local agriculture and creating jobs. This establishment highlights a move toward local products, using UAE-sourced barley for instance, that connects directly with the local environment and creates a unique taste that stands out from more commonly available imported beers.

The timing of these events matters as well. For patrons seeking late-night options, the combination of food and alcohol can lead to varying absorption rates for the beer. Furthermore, the type of carbonation in beer has an impact on the taste experience. CRAFT uses natural carbonation which results in a smoother, more satisfying mouthfeel that many beer enthusiasts prefer.

Overall, the success of CRAFT represents a fascinating confluence of culinary and social trends in Abu Dhabi. It illustrates the evolving dining culture where innovative food pairings are combined with the emerging craft beer scene. The creative fusion of Southern gastropub fare and unique beer styles showcases how creativity can revitalize the region's dining landscape. It's a space where science and community mix, prompting exploration of diverse flavors and social interactions in a way that makes Abu Dhabi a more appealing destination for those seeking unique experiences.



Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Direct Access From Cleveland Clinic and Four Seasons Through Air Conditioned Walkways





The air-conditioned walkways linking the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and the Four Seasons Hotel are a key part of what makes Al Maryah Island a desirable location. This connection is a major convenience for Four Seasons guests and easily connects them to the upscale shopping and restaurants at the Galleria. The Four Seasons' stylish design and modern amenities enhance the luxurious feel of the entire experience. The easy access is a plus for business travelers and those seeking leisure activities, positioning the island as a vital location for both medical and leisure pursuits in Abu Dhabi. This type of integration shows the increasing significance of high-end experiences in the region's luxury tourism sector. It highlights that convenience, luxury, and connectivity have become critical aspects in drawing affluent travelers. While it caters to the affluent, it remains to be seen if this type of connection becomes more common, particularly as these luxury developments often face criticism for widening the gap between the wealthy and the wider population of a city.

The covered walkways linking the Cleveland Clinic and the Four Seasons Hotel offer a compelling example of how engineering solutions can address Abu Dhabi's harsh climate. During the summer, temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, making such protected pathways essential for comfortable movement between buildings. This infrastructure isn't simply a connection; it likely incorporates sophisticated climate control systems that strive for energy efficiency while providing a comfortable experience.

It's a design approach that aligns with evolving urban planning philosophies. Modern architectural trends increasingly prioritize pedestrian-friendly environments, especially in dense urban cores. By seamlessly integrating walkways into the development, Abu Dhabi showcases this approach.

This kind of infrastructure connects to the nature of The Galleria Al Maryah Island, itself a prime example of a mixed-use development. This trend, where retail, dining, and entertainment are consolidated in a single location, aims to cater to a diverse spectrum of consumer needs and behaviors.

The craft brewery, also located within The Galleria, is an interesting case study in transparency and customer engagement. Its incorporation of viewing windows for the brewing process is a growing trend in contemporary breweries. It allows guests to witness a process that's often concealed in traditional industrial settings.

It's likely that this approach can enhance the overall customer experience. Research suggests that seeing the brewing process can increase appreciation for craft beers by providing a tangible connection to the techniques involved in creating them.

The brewery's use of local ingredients like UAE-grown barley demonstrates a shift in consumer preferences and aligns with wider trends. The desire to support local economies and sustainability has become an important aspect of consumer choices, particularly in the craft beverage industry.

Their choice of natural carbonation also speaks to a move away from the hurried, large-scale brewing techniques that commonly utilize forced carbonation for rapid production. This strategy is intriguing since it likely contributes to a fuller, more nuanced flavor profile, a characteristic valued by many craft beer enthusiasts. It also embodies a connection to the traditional brewing heritage.

The events hosted at the gastropub, like trivia nights and comedy shows, also fall within broader social trends. Scientific evidence suggests that social interactions can have a profound effect on people's experience within a dining environment. Fostering these communal activities within a hospitality space may well lead to enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty.


The Cleveland Clinic and Four Seasons are likely benefitting from the architectural choice of the interconnected walkways. By promoting comfort and ease of movement, visitors might linger longer, exploring the area and supporting more businesses—a positive economic ripple effect.



Inside Abu Dhabi's Galleria Al Maryah Island The Middle East's Only Craft Brewery Opens Its Doors - Weekly Food Specials and Happy Hour Deals at The Middle East's Newest Brewery





The Middle East's newest brewery, CRAFT by Side Hustle, is creating a buzz with its attractive weekly food specials and happy hour deals. The Galleria, where the brewery is located, offers happy hour promotions across several venues, with house beverages typically starting around AED 25. This creates an environment ripe for socializing and enjoying drinks at more affordable prices. Some deals are particularly attractive, such as buy-two-get-one-free offers on select beverages. CRAFT is aiming for a unique experience, combining locally inspired food with its selection of crafted beers. This approach has the potential to redefine Abu Dhabi's dining and drinking scene, attracting locals and tourists alike. Moreover, the brewery hosts events that build a sense of community, making a night out a richer experience. Whether it's the brewery's approach to food and drinks or its effort to be a vibrant social hub, CRAFT is showing signs of becoming an innovator in the craft brewing landscape of the Middle East. It will be interesting to see how they influence the wider culinary and social culture in Abu Dhabi, potentially laying the groundwork for similar ventures in the future.

Within the Galleria Al Maryah Island, Craft by Side Hustle, Abu Dhabi's inaugural licensed craft brewery, presents a fascinating intersection of traditional brewing and modern science. The brewery's ability to experiment with up to 75 different hop varieties provides an exciting platform for flavor research, catering to craft beer connoisseurs who crave distinct profiles.


Their reliance on natural carbonation, a departure from the forced carbonation typical of mass production, emphasizes a meticulous approach to creating a smooth mouthfeel and nuanced flavors—elements scientifically linked to increased customer satisfaction. This technique highlights a deeper understanding of the beer's inherent characteristics.


Craft by Side Hustle's commitment to local ingredients, such as UAE-grown barley, is a notable development in the UAE's brewing scene. Sourcing locally not only differentiates the beers from imported varieties but also introduces a unique 'terroir' aspect that scientifically influences the final flavor, echoing the global farm-to-table trend in food.


Their chosen brewing method, cold fermentation, provides another scientific facet to their approach. This technique tends to produce crisp lagers, showcasing a balance between conventional brewing practices and a scientific understanding of temperature control on beer flavors.


The on-site water treatment is a testament to the brewery's commitment to detail. By meticulously manipulating the water's mineral content and pH, the brewery can fine-tune the environment for different beer styles, a rarely seen level of control in the beer industry.


The fusion of Southern cuisine and craft beers isn't just a culinary decision; it delves into scientific principles of flavor synergy. Specific beer styles can subtly enhance or tone down food flavors, a dynamic that the brewery's gastropub is uniquely positioned to explore through its menu pairings.


The brewery actively fosters social interaction through events like quiz nights. Research shows that these types of activities boost cognitive function and social bonding, demonstrating how a brewery can be more than a place for casual drinking—it can promote a sense of community.


The role of carbon dioxide in shaping the beer's flavor is not overlooked. The carbonation level directly influences the intensity of hop flavors, impacting the drinker's taste perception. Craft by Side Hustle's natural carbonation process indicates a conscious decision to leverage the interplay between texture and flavor.


Craft by Side Hustle's strategy of smaller batch production allows for limited-edition releases. This approach caters to the growing demand for novelty in the craft beer market, but also aligns with research that suggests exclusivity and limited availability can heighten consumer satisfaction.


The design of the brewery incorporates viewing windows into the brewing process, making it an open and transparent environment. Scientific evidence supports the notion that this transparency can lead to a greater appreciation for the production process and an enhanced perception of the product's quality, creating a more engaging experience for patrons.


It's an approach that sets Craft by Side Hustle apart within Abu Dhabi's evolving culinary and entertainment landscape, demonstrating that both innovation and tradition are valued. The brewery offers a glimpse into the future of the beverage sector in the region and serves as a compelling case study for the intersection of engineering, science, and consumer preferences in Abu Dhabi.


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