A kaleidoscope of colour emerging out of the desert, Dubai’s new 1950s-inspired truck stop is refuelling hungry travellers in style
The story behind the food
“Last Exit pays tribute to a time when the business of food was simple. When the service was quick and the food fuss-free,” says Abdulla Al Habbai, group chairman, Meraas. “The inspiration was taken directly from a 1950s fuel station; their trailers, trucks and vans – keeping the destination accessible and cool with a retro twist. The design ethos was to consistently challenge the norm whilst keeping it cohesive. The interior space is meticulously created leveraging rehashed automotive parts throughout its structure as well as in common areas.”
Food Trucks For All
The Quirky Jebel Ali Destination Offers Airstream Food Trucks Selling Gourmet Food That Spans Latin America, International, Middle Eastern, American And Italian Cuisines, As Well As The All-Important Road Trip Caffeine And Cake Offerings.
Detail in the desert
As ever, with Dubai, the detail is crucial, and vintage road signs and fuel pumps – along with colourful auto memorabilia and repurposed car tyres – create an authentic and slightly zany image. It all lends such a kitsch sense of fun that Last Exit could eventually become a destination in its own right.
Caffeine hit
You’ll find some fantastic coffee at Carlos Santos, The Brass. As good a stop-off point if you’re on an early start and are in desperate need of a caffeine hit, as it is for those seeking a nice brew for a quick pick-me-up on the late drive back home.
Going loco
Poco Loco’s new food truck is packed with Latin American favourites. Think loaded nachos, tacos and classic burritos.
Exit 11 Sheik Zayed Road to Dubai
Words & Images : Sandra Tinari