Vinyl Records The entryway to Ali Maarrawi Dabbah’s Dubai apartment, adorned with a Pink Floyd-themed doormat, provides just a glimpse into the musical paradise within. Inside his Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR) residence, nearly 12,000 vinyl records, CDs, and music memorabilia grace every wall.
Passion Beyond Price: A Collection Valued at Over Dh1 Million
At 46, Dabbah, accompanied by his feline companions Hannibal and Lobo, curates a collection valued at over 271,000 euros, reflecting a lifelong dedication to music. Despite parting with a quarter of his collection in 2020, including a Dh5,000 George Michael album, his motivation remains purely the love for music.
Eclectic Mix: From 80s Pop to Heavy Metal: Vinyl Records
Dabbah’s extensive collection spans genres, from 80s pop to smooth jazz, with a dominance of rock and heavy metal. Highlights include a signed vinyl record of Ghost’s album Impera and special editions from iconic bands like Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin.
Sentimental Treasures: The First Song on Guitar
A standout piece is a rare edition of the Queen album Innuendo, cherished for being the first song he learned to play on the guitar. The case includes a book detailing Freddie Mercury’s life and a ticket stub from a memorable Queen concert.
Musical Roots: A Journey from Syria to Dubai
Dabbah’s connection with music began before birth in Syria, where his family played instruments. His collection journey started in Saudi Arabia and expanded through his travels to Syria, Spain, and eventually Dubai in 2010.
Discogs Discovery: Enhancing the Collection Journey
Introduced to Discogs in 2014, Dabbah found a platform to buy and sell records, becoming a crucial element in his now 3,000-strong collection. A familiar face in local record stores and fairs, he appreciates the unique music community in Dubai shaped by cultural diversity.
Dubai’s Melting Pot: A Celebration of Music: Vinyl Records
Reflecting on Dubai’s diverse culture, Dabbah highlighted how it enhances the celebration of music. “You get to learn about different styles of music through these different people that you meet from different backgrounds, which is something truly, truly wonderful. Dubai is a great place to celebrate music,” he added.
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