LUXURY ABU DHABI 2014
S H O P P I N G
D I N I N G
S I G H T S E E I N G
A R T S
LUXURY
C U LT U R E
ABU DHABI 2014
Dear Guest, Marhaba! Welcome to the mystical capital of Abu Dhabi and to our very own Qaryat Al Beri complex. A destination in itself, it consists of the deluxe ShangriLa Hotel, the exclusive Shangri-La Residences, the ultra luxurious Villas by Shangri-La, the vibrant Souk and the stylish Traders Hotel. The Qaryat Al Beri complex, a joint venture between Al Jaber Group and TDIC, was conceived with Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision of being a world class tourism destination. The Al Jaber Group is a multi-faceted group of companies with unlimited capabilities in the fields of construction, logistics, industry, trading, hospitality and services. It is a product of over 40 years of hard work, commitment and determination of its founder His Excellency Obaid Khaleefa Jaber Al Marri, chairman of Al Jaber Group. With successful achievements and outstanding results throughout the years, the company remains focused and continues to be the nation’s largest private employer with over 50,000 employees and an unrivalled portfolio of impressive projects. Al Jaber Group’s road map is of Abu Dhabi’s 2030 plan and the company will continue to be an integral part of this great country’s development and success. Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), established in 2006, is a master developer of major tourism destinations in Abu Dhabi and a key contributor to its economic and cultural progress. Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is Asia Pacific’s leading luxury hotel group and regarded as one of the world’s finest hotel ownership and management companies. With a growing portfolio throughout Asia Pacific, North America, the Middle East, and Europe, the ShangriLa group continues to enliven the brand philosophy of “Shangri-La Hospitality from a caring family.” Inspired by the legendary land featured in James Hilton’s 1933 novel, Lost Horizon, the name Shangri-La encapsulates the serenity and service for which the established hotel brand is renowned worldwide. Ever since its inauguration in 2007, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi continues to welcome guests who will always be treated to traditional Arabian hospitality combined with the warmth, care and exceptional service synonymous with Shangri-La. Thank you once again for being our loyal patrons and we wish you a pleasant visit. With warmest regards, Fatima Al Jaber General Manager Qaryat Al Beri
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Shangri-La represents a fairy-tale place of endless pleasure and joy. In his 1933 novel “Lost Horizon”, British author James Hilton describes Shangri-La as a mystical, harmonious valley, enclosed in the western end of the Kunlun Mountains. Ever since then, Shangri-La has become synonymous with any earthly paradise, similar to the Garden of Eden. Many places in China, Nepal and even northern Pakistan might serve as the original source of inspiration, and countless works of art have been inspired over time by the Shangri-La theme, based on an eternal longing for harmony, beauty and happiness. The Shangri-La dream of perfection and beauty fits well with what Abu Dhabi aims to achieve as a luxury tourist destination in the Arabian world: meeting and exceeding the expectations of the most sophisticated travelers, providing them with unique experiences in world-class facilities providing immaculate services, leaving nothing to be desired. TDIC, the Tourism and Investment Company of Abu Dhabi, teamed up with the Al Jaber Group to create our Arabian Shangri-La on the sands of the United Arab Emirates’ capital. One of the most historically significant areas of Abu Dhabi, Khor Al Maqta, has become the address of Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri which opened its doors in the summer of 2007. Close to the Maqta fort, where centuries ago man and beast would fi nd the only possible crossing through the shallow waters of the Maqta Canal from the main land to Abu Dhabi Island, stands this jewel of genuine Arabian hospitality. The elegant palace-like building, with its beige color pattern, reflects the beautiful sands of the region, linking the Asianinspired Shangri-La theme with its surroundings and the Bedouin traditions of the desert inhabitants of Arabia. Aside from the five-star luxury hotel, the 21acre Qaryat Al Beri complex consists of Shangri-La Residences, six luxury villas, CHI, The Spa and the Souk at Qaryat Al Beri, a shopping and dining venue inspired by the style of a traditional Arabic market, featuring exclusive shops and a choice of international restaurants at the waterfront and the lifestyle Traders Hotel. The 700-meter man-made waterway gives the whole area a special touch where abras, small Arabic gondolas, are available for guests and residents to move around the complex in true Arabian style. The new water taxi offers guests a convenient and leisurely ride across the canal.
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Relax and feel at home G
Guests can simply lean back and enjoy the luxury of the place in a set-up that matches their personal preferences. The hotel comprises 214 luxurious guestrooms and suites, as well as six four-bedroom villas with private pools. For long-staying guests, the hotel also offers 161 fully furnished Shangri-La Residences. Modern facilities and Arabian fl air are perfectly matched in all rooms. Walk-in monsoon showers and the pillow menus in the suites add a touch of spa feeling to each guestroom. All rooms are equipped with mini-bars for a small sip and bite in between as well as coffee- and tea-making facilities.
Well aware of the 21 st century needs of its guests, the hotel provides all the facilities leisure and business travelers might need: complimentary broadband internet access in the rooms and wireless internet in public areas, satellite and cable television, as well as IDD telephones with personal voice mail, all help guests stay connected and keep up with what is happening around the world. The hotel’s business center provides guests with any support that might be needed, be it secretarial, translation and courier services or the facilitating and technical support for meetings in designated private rooms.
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To make a stay enjoyable and hassle-free from the ďŹ rst moment of arriving in town, the hotel arranges a wide range of transport: airport- and city-shuttles, and chauffeur services. Families can make use of babysitting and childcare facilities maintained by specially trained staff. A special butler service team pampers guests staying in suites. Physically challenged guests are most welcome and will ďŹ nd facilities tailored to their special needs. The hotel offers 24-hour concierge assistance, laundry facilities and valet services. Non-smoking rooms are available. Horizon Club guests enjoy a wide range of extra services, like in-room check-in and check-out, Chinese welcome tea, fresh fruits and tailored amenities as well as complimentary lounge facilities and a wide range of business support services.
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Culinary treasures
A culinary journey through the awardwinning restaurants of the hotel is a feast for all the senses. Contemporary French fine dining is the theme of the Bord Eau dinner-only restaurant on the third floor lobby level. In the setting of a chic dining room that boasts opulent fabrics and furniture, the chef de cuisine prepares seasonal fresh produce that is flown in from France and serves each dish as an artistic expression. Voted as Restaurant of the Year at the recent Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards and the BBC Good Food Middle East Awards, Bord Eau features a blind tasting menu with grape pairing.
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The art of Chinese fine dining is celebrated in Shangri-La’s signature Cantonese restaurant, Shang Palace that is located on the first floor. Open for lunch and dinner, it showcases traditional Cantonese cuisine and provincial specialties. Chef Jeff Tan's creations are a feast for the eyes as well as for the taste buds – who could ever resist authentic Peking duck? The restaurant also offers a yum cha menu and set menus for larger groups. To complete the experience, a range of Chinese teas are presented and served by the unique Kung Fu tea master.
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Modern Vietnamese cuisine is offered for dinner in Hoi An, located on the fi rst floor. The Vietnamese chef uses produce flown in from Vietnam and the Mekong area to serve unique and refreshing dishes, with each dish reflecting the country’s thriving culinary scene, rich agriculture, and flourishing seas and rivers.
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Sofra bld offers an extensive buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, where guests can browse the live cooking stations, interact with the chefs and pick and choose from a wide range of international dishes, truly mirroring the souk experience of the Middle East.
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Pearls & Caviar, adjacent to The Villas by Shangri-La, offers an exclusive selection of seafood. The waterfront setting offers a stunning view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. One of Abu Dhabi’s hippest night spots – known for its lively atmosphere and signature cocktails – is the open-air Pearls Bar, located above the restaurant. Open from late afternoon untill after midnight, Al Hanah Bar and adjoining the cigar lounge offer the perfect atmosphere in which to relax and unwind after a busy day, sipping some fi ne beverages and enjoying the stunning view from the balcony. Drinks and light snacks and fragrant shishas are offered throughout the day at Ess Lounge and Pool Bar and Restaurant.
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A treat for body and soul O
One of the hotel’s signature facilities is CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La. CHI offers the authentic natural healing treatments and massage therapies found in traditional well-being practices shared by many Asian cultures. CHI’s roots are set in the Chinese theory of chi or energy. The spa includes 10 luxury single treatment suites and one couple’s suite, all designed to be a haven for relaxation and well-being. CHI has separate facilities for men and women, with individual relaxation areas that include special showers, steam and vitality hydro pools. The Experience Shower uses color therapy and cold and warm jets to revive and invigorate, the Herbal Steam Room exudes a mixture of soothing and calming herbs with steam to relieve and relax tired muscles, and the Vitality Hydro Pool helps de-stress both body and mind. A black slate hammam is the highlight of the relaxation area with treatment designed to soothe, detoxify and moisturize. Guests recline in the steam on hot stone slabs to open the pores. A body scrub is then applied and the humidity from the steam fosters detoxification. The scrub is washed off and Moroccan black mud combined with seaweed is applied to deeply moisturize the skin. The entire treatment is completed with a rain shower to wash off the mud, leaving the guest with silky smooth skin. CHI Spa includes signature therapies such as CHI Balance Massage and Healing Stone Massage. An exclusive one-kilometer beachfront and five outdoor swimming pools offer plenty of possibilities to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s year-round sunshine and relax by the water or take a dip in the waters of the Maqta Canal. The hotel has a fully equipped health club and a yoga room. The two gyms – one for male and female guests and one for ladies only – are equipped by Techno Gym.
Khor Al Maqta, PO Box 128881, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Tel: (971 2) 509 8888 Fax: (971 2) 558 5999 E-mail: slad@shangri-la.com Website: www.shangri-la.com
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LUXURY ABU DHABI SHOPPING
DINING
SIGHTSEEING
ARTS
CULTURE
e WHERE L UXURY M EETS LIFESTYLE
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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SHOPPING DINING SIGHTSEEING ARTS CULTURE
Contents Facts About the UAE Rulers and Ruling Families Sands of time – UAE history The Emirate of Abu Dhabi
8 10 14 18
Abu Dhabi Milestones A Glimpse of Islam Go od to Know National dress Arabic Hospitality Arabic Coffee Recipes Traditional Emirati Food Sporting Abu Dhabi Top Women's Fashion Abu Dhabi Cultural Abu Dhabi Events Abu Dhabi Art
20 22 23 26 28 30 32 34 36 40 42 46
Historical Buildings Culture and Heritage Modern Buildings Mosques in Abu Dhabi Louvre Abu Dhabi Zayed National Museum Guggenheim Abu Dhabi UAE Pavilion Manarat Al Saadiyat Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Golf in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi City Golf Club
48 50 66 100 110 112 114 116 118 120 122 124
Abu Dhabi's Islands Top Timepieces Top Women's Accessories The Arabian Gulf The Marina Mall Historical Places in Abu Dhabi Zayed Center
126 130 132 134 136 144 146
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LUXURY ABU DHABI 2014
SHOPPING DINING SIGHTSEEING ARTS CULTURE
Contents Breakwater Island From Al Bateen to Heritage Village Saadiyat and Yas Islands Find Your Drive at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Meena Area Natural Heritage Parks in Abu Dhabi
150 158 164 170 174 178 182
All That Glitters Top Jewellery Shopping Malls in Abu Dhabi Top Men’s Fashion The World of 1001 Fragrances Top Fragrances The World of 1001 Spices Abu Dhabi: Gourmet Metropolis Garden city Al Ain
186 188 190 192 194 198 200 202 210
Abu Dhabi's 1001 Faces of the Desert Nature and Arabian Heritage 1001 nights – Desert Adventures Sun, Sand & Skiing
214 218 226 240
Wildlife at Your Fingertips Motorsport Yas-Island Yachting Yas Waterworld Diving Al Bateen Executive Airport Arrive in Style
242 244 244 245 245 246 248
Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club Camel Racing
251 252 254
Essential Numbers Abu Dhabi Map
256 258
Editorial
260
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© TDIC
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FACTS
Facts About the United Arab Emirates
Capital Political structure Official language Foundation of the country Territory Population
Official religion Currency Time zone Internet International Vehicle registration code International calling code
Abu Dhabi Constitutional Confederation Arabic December 2, 1971 83,600 km² 7,200,000 Total 947,997 UAE Nationals (Published by Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce in April 2012) Islam UAE Dirham GMT+4 (no daylight saving/ summer time) .ae UAE +971
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Ambulance .................................................................. 998 or 999 Police .................................................................. 999 – emergency ..........................................................................901 - non-emergency Fire ............................................................................................. 997 Coast Guard ..................................................... 996 and 800 4438 Tourist police ................................................................800 2626 Directory Inquiry ................................................... Etisalat – 181 ........................................ du Telecom 800 155 from any UAE phone .........................................................du Telecom 155 from du mobile
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ARRIVING BY PLANE - INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS
LOCATION The United Arab Emirates is located along the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders with Saudi Arabia to the west, south and southeast and Oman to the southeast and northeast. The northern and western coast of the UAE lies on the Arabian Gulf, its eastern coast is on the Indian Ocean. The UAE is a federation, formed of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah.
TOURISM The UAE is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations worldwide. Its unique combination of Arab tradition and heritage, year-round sunshine, unbeatable shopping facilities, world-class hotels and a service-oriented safe environment leads to ever growing numbers of visitors.
CLIMATE The UAE has an arid climate with year-round sunshine. Summers are hot and humid, winters warm and at times windy. With daytime temperatures in the mid-20s and night temperatures between 11 and 15 degrees Celsius, winters are very pleasant. During summer thermometers will climb into the 40s during the day and remain in the 30s at night. Humidity in coastal areas is on average 50 percent and can reach up to 90 percent during mid-summer ( June – August). Shamal are strong winds that are common during winter. Sandstorms and strong winds from the desert are the usual harbingers of the change of seasons. Rainfall is very rare – in spring (March/April) some rainy days might happen, not more than ten during the whole year. A "wet year" might see 350 mm of rain, in a "dry year" it might be as little as 30 mm. Water temperatures in the Arabian Gulf change from 20 degrees in winter to 36 degrees in summer. The waters of the Indian Ocean on the east coast are 18 degrees in winter and up to 30 degrees in summer.
TOPOGRAPHY Eighty percent of the UAE’s landmass is desert with picturesque sand dunes. The Hajar mountain range stretches along the eastern coast and its highest peaks reach up to 1,900 metres. Wadis, dry riverbeds, are unique natural features. The UAE is home to more than 200 islands, some of them accessible to visitors.
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• Abu Dhabi International Airport - AUH • Dubai International Airport - DXB • Al Maktoum International Airport - DWC • Sharjah International Airport - SHJ • Al Ain International Airport - AAN • Fujairah International Airport- FJR • Ras al-Khaimah International Airport – RKT
ARRIVING BY SEA - CRUISE PORTS • Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal Mina Zayed Port • Dubai Cruise Terminal Port Rashid • Port of Fujairah • Passenger Cruise Terminal RAK Khor Port Ras al-Khaimah
ARRIVING BY ROAD – LAND CHECKPOINTS • Hatta – Omani border • Al Ain/Buraimi – Omani border • Dibba – Omani border (Musandam) • Al Ghuwaifat – Border with Saudi Arabia
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 The UAE follows the Gregorian calendar as well as the Islamic Hijri calendar. Friday is the weekly day of rest, schools and most offices remain closed during the two-day weekend on Fridays and Saturdays. HOLIDAYS – FIXED DATES January 1 New Year's Day December 2 UAE National Day ISLAMIC HOLIDAYS – APPROXIMATE DATES The Hijri calendar is based on the moon cycle and therefore in 2014 the following dates for the Islamic holidays are approximate. The exact dates will be announced following the moonsighting. January 13 May 26 June 28 July 82 October 3 October 4 October 25
Prophet Mohammed's Birthday Ascension of the Prophet Beginning of Ramadan Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) Arafat (Haj) Day Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) Al Hijara (Islamic New Year)
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FACTS
Rulers and ruling families of the United Arab Emirates NAMES OF THE RULERS OF THE UAE AND THE SEVEN EMIRATES AL NAHYAN – RULING FAMILY OF ABU DHABI His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces AL MAKTOUM - RULING FAMILY OF DUBAI
Not long ago what is today the United Arab Emirates was a desert and mountainous land, inhabited by nomadic shepherds, settled people in villages in the mountains and traders and fi shermen along the coast. People lived together in tribal communities. In 1904, when the sheikhdoms were separate states with treaties with Britain, J.G. Lorimer, the author of an offi cial study on behalf of the Indian government, reported on the tribes, their locations and the local economy. There was a population of around 80,000, in 44 tribes, forming fi ve principalities with the Bani Yas tribal confederation as the largest amongst them. The fi rst reference to the Bani Yas dates back to 1633. Abu Dhabi's ruling family, the Al Nahyan family, is part of the Al Bu Falah section of the Bani Yas tribe. Dubai's ruling Al Maktoum family hails from the Al Bu Falasah section of the Bani Yas, while the Al Qawasim family ruled in Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah. Even though many tribes shared common roots, rivalries amongst them were common in the struggle for survival in the harsh desert environment. Control over water resources and territories was crucial for their survival and only those leaders who could provide and protect these resources would be accepted by their people and able to remain in power. It was a very simple principle: if a leader looked after his people well, his people would stand behind him in times of trouble. The formation of the UAE and the unification of the tribes under one leadership was one of the greatest achievements of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was the leader of Abu Dhabi from 1966 and who became the fi rst President of the United Arab Emirates. Tribal identity and affi liation to the tribe is part of Emirati identity. Social structures in the UAE are still based on tribal affi liations. Even nowadays Emiratis remain committed to their tribal identity, and, in return, their leaders take care of them. The implementation of tribal leadership has changed over the years and occurs in the 21 st century in a different way. While a tribal leader in the desert might have managed the distribution of scarce resources, nowadays the leaders distribute the profit of their modern economies in the form of general welfare and gracious grants, ensuring a carefree life for all their people.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE; Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai AL QASIMI - RULING FAMILY OF SHARJAH His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Sharjah AL QASIMI - RULING FAMILY OF RAS AL-KHAIMAH His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras al-Khaimah His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras al-Khaimah AL NUAIMI RULING FAMILY OF AJMAN His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman AL MUALLA - RULING FAMILY OF UMM AL-QAIWAIN His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Ruler of Umm al-Qaiwain His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Crown Prince of Umm al-Qaiwain AL SHARQI - RULING FAMILY OF FUJAIRAH
The rulers of the UAE enjoy a great amount of respect and affection from their own people and residents of the country alike. Even though they live in palaces, they still rule in the tribal tradition and the doors to their majalis, the Arabic counterpart to Western royal audience halls, are open for people to meet their Sheikhs and to discuss a wide range of topics with them.
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His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah His Highness Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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FACTS
Sands of Time A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE UAE
Remnants of early settlements from the Umm al Nar period, about 4,000 to 4,500 years ago, have been found throughout the country, and relatively large oasis towns were established. The remains of a remarkable circular burial tomb can be seen in the Hili Archaeological Garden in Al Ain. Fragments of pottery and metal items are evidence of relations with Mesopotamia, Iran, the Indus Valley, Baluchistan and Bactria, and later Afghanistan. In Mesopotamian sources the areas is referred to as Magan. The Iron Age, about 1,300 to 300 BC, was characterised by two main changes, besides the introduction of iron. First, domesticated camels appeared, allowing major change in the way people travelled on land, while the invention of underground irrigation channels, the so-called falaj, made it possible to increase the distribution of water for irrigation, despite declining rainfall. With more agriculture, and therefore more food available, there was an almost explosive growth in population. During the Late Pre-Islamic area, around 2,300 to 1,700 years ago, the use of horses became common and a large trade network connecting the Gulf areas with Mesopotamia, India and the Mediterranean was established.
The United Arab Emirates have a long history and recent fi ndings support the theory that during the early migration of Man from Africa into Asia, the region provided a key route through which the migrations passed. Archaeological fi ndings provide proof of interaction with the outside world as early as during the Palaeolithic period, over 100,000 years ago. Permanent settlement began during the Neolithic period about 8,000 years ago, with trading links by sea with Iraq being established over 7,000 years ago. By around 5,000 years ago, 3,000 BC, copper was being mined in the Hajar Mountains for export.
© Jumeriah Group
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In the 6th century A.D. Christianity was introduced to the area. Archaeologists found on Sir Bani Yas Island, in western Abu Dhabi, the remains of a monastery that belonged to a Nestorian Christian community.
almost 20,000 sailors. Their clashes with the British, the dominant power at the time in India, led to the area becoming known as the “Pirate Coast”.
Between 630 and 637 A.D. the fi rst envoys of the Prophet Mohamed arrived and used Julfar – today Ras al-Khaimah – as a staging port during their conquest of Iran. Julfar started to flourish and over the centuries became a wealthy port and pearling centre. In 892 A.D. the port again played a strategic role during the Abbasid invasion of Oman. In 963 A.D., the Buyids, a dynasty from Iran, conquered southeastern Arabia.
Meanwhile the Liwa-based Bani Yas discovered water at Milh Island, later named Abu Dhabi, establishing a settlement in around 1761 and, later, building the Al Hosn fort. The new town of Abu Dhabi became an important pearling centre and the political leaders of the Al Bu Falah, the Al Nahyan family, moved to Abu Dhabi.
The 14 th and 15 th centuries were the time of the great seafarers. The fairy tale figure of “Sinbad” shares a lot of features with the region’s most famous sailor, Ahmed bin Majid, born 1421 in Ras al-Khaimah. Bin Majid was one of the most knowledgeable navigators and cartographers of his time. Charts made by him are believed to have helped the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama to find his way from southern Africa to India at the beginning of the 16 th Century. In the 18 th Century, the Al Qawasim, or Qasimi family, in the northern emirates of Ras al-Khaimah and Sharjah, emerged as a major sea power in the region, building up a fleet of more than 60 vessels with
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In the early 19th Century, conflict between the Al Qawasim and the British led, in 1819, to a major attack by a British force, after which, in January 1820, peace treaties were signed with all of the sheikhs of the region, which guaranteed them British protection, while preserving their own sovereignty and control over affairs on land. Renewed and amended, these provided the basis for a British presence in the area until 1971. An agreement between the sheikhs to maintain a truce atled to the area becoming known as the Trucial States. In 1833, members of the Al Bu Falasah, a branch of the Bani Yas tribe, moved from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, with their leader, Sheikh Maktoum bin Butti Al Maktoum, becoming the ruler of Dubai. With its creek providing a safe harbour for shipping, it rapidly emerged as an important trading port.
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FACTS
Trade was flourishing, the pearling industry in winter and date farming provided a humble but steady income and allowed the tribes a relatively stable life. The introduction of the cultured pearl by the Japanese stripped the region of its main source of income and triggered a deep economic crisis in the 1920s, with severe consequences for the people. The Dubai Creek, over centuries a harbour for small trading vessels and a good fishing place, came more into focus. In order to further develop commercial activities and to allow more and larger vessel to anchor, the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, started an extensive program to develop the creek. The shallow seabed was dredged and the beaches were developed to become quays, suitable for loading and unloading cargo. In the 1930s, oil companies started their first surveys in the area. At this time the first planes also landed in the area and a first airport was built at Sharjah, used as a stopover-point by Imperial Airways on the way to India and Australia. After the Second World War, the surveys were intensified in the 1950s, and with the discovery of oil in 1958, everything changed. What had formally been a widely unnoticed desert region became a place of global interest. In 1962 the first oil tanker left Das Island. Nothing would anymore be as it had been before. Even though the UAE was the last Gulf state to discover oil, what happened afterwards seems like a modern fairy tale. Changes took place almost overnight. With the discovery of oil, international experts came to the region, growing steadily in numbers. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan became the ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966. He was a leader people trusted, and they felt confident in his abilities to lead the tribe in those difficult times. In his previous appointment as the ruler’s representative in Al Ain, he had gained the respect of the tribesmen and had proven his ability as a wise and caring leader. When Britain announced in 1968 its intention to withdraw from the region, Sheikh Zayed started talks with the neighbouring rulers to join together as a new state. The rulers of Bahrain and Qatar were included, although they decided eventually to choose independent membership of the international community. An agreement among the Trucial States to form a federation was reached in July 1971 and on December 2, 1971 the United Arab Emirates was formed and the flag of the new country was flown for the first time at Jumeirah in Dubai. The initial members were Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain and Fujairah. Ras alKhaimah joined the federation in February 1972. Since then the seven Emirates have build up a distinct national identity and the UAE’s political system combines the traditional and the modern. The flag of the Emirates consists of the pan-Arabic colours of red, green, white and black, representing, according to common understanding, the four main historical periods of Islam.
e
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FACTS
Arabian oryx
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The Emirate of Abu Dhabi Of the seven Emirates, Abu Dhabi is the largest, with its 67,340 square kilometres occupying about 86 percent of the total landmass of the UAE. The Emirate consists of the city of Abu Dhabi with its suburbs, the Western Region or “Al Gharbiya”, with the desert of the Empty Quarter and the Liwa Oasis and the Eastern Region surrounding the oasis city of Al Ain. More than 200 islands of different sizes belong to the Emirate. The city of Abu Dhabi, located on an atoll of islands at the shoreline of the Arabian Gulf, is the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It hosts the seats of the President and the Federal Cabinet, foreign embassies and the headquarters of many oil companies. The mangrove-surrounded islands were almost uninhabited until the middle of the 18 th century, although tribesmen would visit the islands regularly during hunting expeditions. Legend has it that hunting Bedouin once followed a gazelle, or ‘dhabi’, fleeing from the main land onto one of the islands, then known as “Milh”, or Salt. The hunters were intrigued and followed. To the great surprise of the hunters, the animal headed straight to what turned out to be a freshwater spring near the north-west coast of the island. This was a great surprise for the Bedouin, and they hurried to share this news with their tribal leaders. Access to fresh water was crucial for the survival of the Bedouin and therefore extremely precious and of great strategic importance. Their leaders decided
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to take control over this new resource and to establish a settlement there. Milh Island was now called “father of the gazelle” – in Arabic “Abu Dhabi”. A fi rst watchtower was build in 1761, and later extended into a small fort – the oldest building in Abu Dhabi, the Qasr al Hosn. Due to its island location the new settlement developed quickly into a vibrant pearl centre. The Al Nahyan family of the Bani Yas tribe moved from their desert residence in the Liwa Oasis to the islands and from 1793 onward ruled the emerging emirate of Abu Dhabi. The Western Region is characterized by large desert landscapes. The name Empty Quarter indicates the inhospitality of this, the largest sand desert of the world. Only the bravest Bedouin could cross this sheer endless desert. Since there is hardly any water or any other resource for human survival, the Quarter was almost uninhabited. In the middle of this harsh region lies the Liwa Oasis, where the Bani Yas tribe lived for centuries. The charming centre of the Eastern Region is the oasis city of Al Ain, one of the world’s oldest continuously-occupied settlements. It was a vital oasis on the caravan routes from Oman. The city’s name Al Ain means “Spring” and relates to the natural springs, originating from the surrounding mountains and feeding the oasis with fresh water. Al Ain is the garden city of the country, covered with lush palm trees and fresh greenery.
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FACTS
Masdar City
© Masdar City
Masdar City seeks to be a vibrant global cleantech cluster that provides an attractive environment for all types of organisations operating in the renewable energy and cleantech industries in addition to ancillary service providers that will support the development of the cluster. Already, it is a community where cutting-edge cleantech research and development, pilot projects, technology testing, and construction on some of the world’s most sustainable buildings are all ongoing. In practical terms, this mean creating the kind of working environment and infrastructure, and providing the services, facilities and other amenities that companies and organizations operating in the cleantech and renewable energy field want and need to succeed. Equally, the city has a vision to provide the highest quality of life and work environment with the lowest environment footprint – and to do so in a commercially viable manner. Being commercially viable is central to this vision because of Masdar City’s goal to be a model city for sustainable urban development elsewhere in the UAE, the MENA region and globally. See more at www.masdarcity.ae
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Oil and Sustainability ABU DHABI MILESTONES
Sandy beaches, traditional fishing- and pearling boats peacefully rocking in the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf and along the coast a humble settlement consisting of houses made from date-palm fronds – this was, more or less, Abu Dhabi until the middle of the 20th century. No roads, no electricity and no tap water. With the discovery of oil in 1958 all this changed. Oil-companies started their operations from Abu Dhabi and with them came not only foreigners, but also modern technologies and infrastructures; life on the island was changed forever. In 1966 Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan became the ruler of the Emirate and under his guidance and leadership Abu Dhabi underwent an incredible development into a super modern cosmopolitan city. Sheikh Zayed's concern as tribal leader was for the welfare of all his people; water and electricity available for everybody, appropriate houses, medical services and education – these were his priorities. It was beyond imagination that one day Abu Dhabi would become one of the largest oil producers in the world, with millions of dollars in revenue generated daily. The new city was built according to a master plan, dividing the area into clusters with streets parallel and at right angles to each other. What seems a simple task, to demolish old buildings and remove the debris, was quite a challenge on a 40 km long island without proper roads. Zayed, a man who was known for his practicality and hands-on mentality, came up with a creative solution: the debris of the old structures was dumped off the coast and used to build a breakwater to protect the outer coast from the occasional big waves from the Arabian Gulf that had, on more than one occasion in the past, caused remarkable damage to the coastal settlement. Extended and enhanced over the years, the breakwater, with its Marina Sports Club, Marina Mall and the Emirates Heritage Village, became a popular leisure spot for residence and visitors. Modern skyscrapers grew like mushrooms, providing housing for the growing population, hotels, offices, schools, universities and modern medical facilities. The city spread from the main island onto the mainland and over the surrounding islands, where new residential areas, recreational facilities and industrial areas were developed. Abu Dhabi’s identity is deeply rooted in its Arabic and Islamic heritage. With the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the third largest in the world, the late president left not only a beautiful place of worship for his brothers and sisters in faith, but gifted the city an iconic building and architectural treasure. Abu Dhabi’s vision is to build up on a diversified, sustainable economic basis. The development of world-class cultural, sporting and tourism facilities is a crucial part of the plan. Sustainability is a key word in Abu Dhabi’s future plans and so it should not be surprising that, in the homeland of the second largest oil producer in the Arabian Peninsula and the eighth largest in the world, the use of alternative energy is a key area of development. Over an area of six square kilometres, Abu Dhabi is realising one of world's largest clean-tech clusters, where current and future renewable energy and clean technologies are showcased, marketed, researched, developed, tested and implemented. Air traffic was crucial for the city's development. The Al Bateen Airport on the main Island of Abu Dhabi was opened in 1968. In order to accommodate more traffic, a larger international airport was build about 30 km southwards of the city on the mainland. Flights from the new location took off in 1982 and since then the airport has undergone constant extensions. Since 2003, Abu Dhabi has its own national carrier, Etihad airlines. Set up in July of that year, the fi rst fl ights were launched only four months later. With more than 60 aircraft, Etihad operates
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more than 1,000 fl ights weekly and serves a network of 84 international destinations. It became a leading premium airline brand in record time and was named “World’s Leading Airline” at the World Travel Awards in 2009, 2010 and 2011. With the Emirates Palace Hotel, Abu Dhabi added its unique traditional Arabic touch to a global portfolio of luxury hotels. As one of the fastest growing cities it is only fair to get involved in speedy sports – since 2009 Abu Dhabi has hosted a Formula 1 race at the Yas Marina Circuit. Ferrari World, next to the racetrack, is the world’s largest indoor theme park. Further ambitious projects are in various states of completion. Saadiyat Island, located close by Abu Dhabi’s main island and connected via new roads and bridges, will host a stunning cultural district. The Guggenheim Museum, The Louvre Abu Dhabi, a Centre for Performing Arts and the Sheikh Zayed National Museum amongst countless other museums and galleries will put Abu Dhabi amongst the top art destinations in the world.The largest photovoltaic (PV) plant in the MENA region located in Masdar City has hit all performance targets in the fi rst two years of its operations, demonstrating that utility-scale PV plants in the region are viable, Masdar said today. The 10MW PV plant, which is one of five projects in the UAE registered for carbon credits under the United Nation’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), entered its third year of operations this month. Since operations began, the plant has saved 24,000 tons in CO2 emissions, which is the equivalent of taking 3,300 cars off Abu Dhabi’s roads. The 10MW solar plant, consisting of 87,777 panels of thin fi lm and crystalline silicon technologies, and connected to the Abu Dhabi National Grid, has so far generated approximately 36,000MWh of clean energy. The plant is a net exporter of energy to the grid after it meets the entire energy needs of the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology (M.I.S.T.) in Masdar City.
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CULTURE
A Glimpse of Islam Islam is the official religion of the United Arab Emirates. Followers of Islam, a monotheistic religion based on the believe that Allah is the one and only God and that Prophet Mohamed (Peace be Upon Him) is his last messenger, are called Muslims. Allah is the Arabic word for god and refers in Islam to the same god as that in Judaism and Christianity. Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) lived from 570 to 632 A.D. and, from the age of 40 until his death, he received revelations of God, verbally conveyed by Angel Gabriel. After the death of the Prophet Mohamed (PBUH), these revelations were compiled into a single book, the holy book of Muslims called the Quran. The Quran is considered the culmination of Godly revelations and Mohamed (PBUH) the fi nal messenger of God, following earlier messengers such as Adam, Moses, Ibrahim, David and Jesus. Muslims believe and respect all messengers of God. Jesus, for instance, is mentioned 25 times in the Quran, while Mohamed (PBUH) is mentioned four times only. Mary, the mother of Jesus, is considered one of the most respected women in the Islamic tradition. She is the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran, which makes more references to her than the New Testament of the Christian bible.
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Five pillars form the basis of Islam: Shahada is the declaration of Faith in Allah as the one and only God and Mohamed (PBUH) as his last messenger. Salah are the prayers Muslims perform at fi ve specifi c times of the day, defi ned by certain positions of the sun. Zakat are the fi ve percent of one’s wealth that are given as alms. Sawm is the fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The pilgrimage to Mecca, which each Muslim is expected to perform at least one in a lifetime, is called the Hajj. The Islamic Hijri calendar is a lunar calendar and was introduced at the time of the arrival of Prophet Mohamed’s (PBUH) in Medina in 622. The Islamic year consist of 12 lunar months and is about 11 days shorter than the internationally used Gregorian calendar. The weekly day of rest for Muslims is Friday, and is part of the weekend in the Arab world (Sunday is a working day). Islam has about 1.6 billion followers, making it the second largest religion in the world. About 20 percent of all Muslims live in the Middle East. The two main denominations of Islam are Sunni with about 85 percent (according to www. islam.about.com) and Shia with 10-15 percent of all Muslims.
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Good to Know The United Arab Emirates form a modern cosmopolitan yet Islamic country and enjoy a high level of safety. It is fi ne for visitors to be out in town at any given time and at any given place. Out of respect towards the local culture modesty in dress and behaviour is advisable. Women are recommended to cover shoulders and knees and to avoid see-through and low-cut outfits in public. Inside bars and clubs it’s fi ne so show a bit more skin, but on the way to the location modesty should be maintained. For men, bare chest and shorts above the knee would not be appropriate. At beaches and pool areas swimming wear is perfectly fi ne, however topless sunbathing by women is taboo. When capturing memorable moments with cameras, some consideration of privacy should be given. Veiled women usually don’t like to be photographed. For men and children to appear in your picture is usually fi ne, however it is always advisable to get the permission of the potential models, at least with a friendly smile. As in many other places in the world, it is not permitted to take pictures of military and official building as well as palaces. The rule of the thumb is simple: armed guards at the entrance gate and a state flag on top of the building are unmistakably nophotography signs. Gender-segregation is a common traditional practice in the local society. Even traditional wedding parties consist of two events: a ladies-only party with music and dancing, and the men’s reception for male friends and relatives. A highlight of the celebration is the appearance of the groom towards the end of the ladies' party. The couple receives congratulations, poses for pictures and leave for their honeymoon. Most marriages in Gulf societies are traditionally arranged by recommendation. Even though Muslim men are allowed by Islamic sharia law to be married to up to four wives at the same time, this is not common practice and rather the exception than the rule. It is not acceptable for unmarried couples to live together or even share the same room. Hotels usually won’t refuse unmarried couples and handle the situation discreetly. Discretion is also advisable for guests and even in introductions it is better to introduce your girlfriend as your wife. Homosexuality and cross dressing are culturally unacceptable and are considered offences that could lead to unpleasant consequences, if discretion is not maintained. Overt displays of affection in public are not appreciated; passionate public kisses could lead to unpleasant consequences. It is perfectly fi ne for couples to
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walk hand-in-hand and a greeting kiss on the cheek is not an issue at all, as long as modesty is maintained. Although alcohol is considered “haram”, a forbidden thing, in Islam, the bars and wine cellars of the UAE’s hotels are well stocked. Hotels and a handful of international sport- and recreation clubs are licenced to serve alcohol. The legal age of 21 for consuming alcohol and visiting nightclubs is strictly observed, since the venues would face severe consequences if they did not stick to the rules. During the holy month of Ramadan and religious holidays the serving of alcohol is either suspended or limited to the evening hours. The UAE administers a zero-tolerance policy towards drinking and driving and the possession and consumption of drugs. Non-smoking policies are implemented in most shopping centres and restaurants. The currency of the UAE is the UAE Dirham - AED. The exchange rate against the U.S. dollar is fi xed at 3.65 AED for 1 U.S. $. Other currency exchange rates change depending on the international dollar-course. The best places to exchange cash are exchange offices, which can be found in malls and shopping areas. Banks and more so hotels offer slightly lower rates. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, but not all shops and restaurants take American Express or Diners Club International cards. ATMs are available all over town. There is no surcharge for credit card payments, unless a reduced price is agreed upon while shopping at the markets. In this case the merchant might ask for the charges the bank would make for the credit card payment: two percent for Visa, four percent for MasterCard and six percent for American Express. It is advisable to have some cash in the local currency at hand for small expenses. Taxis for instance do not accept cards and it might become a bit difficult to negotiate the exchange rate with the taxi driver if trying to pay in a foreign currency. The UAE’s telecommunication infrastructure is highly developed and the two phone companies, Etisalat and du, have rooming agreements with most international providers. Local mobile calls are very reasonably priced at 0.30 AED per minute, for international calls the rates range between 2 and 3.5 AED per minute, and are about 30 percent discounted between 9 PM and 7 AM and on Fridays. For calls from hotels, surcharges are applicable. Taxis are the most convenient and reasonable mode of transport while on a short stay. Unique features in the UAE are “lady-taxis”, recognisable by their pink exterior decoration. These pink cabs are for ladies and small children only and are driven by ladies. Self-drive or chauffeur-driven rental cars are available via hotels and town-offices. An international driving license is required to hire a car. A limousine service can be arranged via the hotel.
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CULTURE
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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CULTURE
National Dress The Emirati master the art of wearing the simple and traditional outfi ts of the Gulf people with pride, making luxury fashion statements even out of their humble outfi ts. Emirati national dress is based on practical, traditional clothing for a hot desert climate, and meets the religious demands of modesty. The long wide gentleman's garment is called the dishdash or khandoorah. Most Emirati would choose to have their khadooras tailored - and yes, they are tailor-made - from material of a shining white colour. However, it is a personal choice, to use other colours as well, and mainly during winter months darker colours and warmer materials are common. The traditional features of this garment, which is common all over the Gulf region, are the round collarless neck and long open arms without cuffs. Pockets are implemented in the side seams, not on the chest. A very special Emirati detail is a small cord, attached to the upper button. It’s called kerkusha or tarbush and is made from thread of the same colour as the khandourra. This small item has an interesting history: Arabs love good smells and perfumed oils, especially Oud. This is traditionally offered as a pleasantry to guests. Remains of the oil, applied to the hands and ankles, would leave oily stains on the khandoora. In order to avoid this, the Emirati would roll the faruha in their hands in order to absorb the remains of the perfume and capture the pleasant smell in the little cord. Whoever visits a fi sh market or a camel farm will value this little handy sniffer! The man’s outfit is only considered complete with the headdress, the guttrah. Even though white guttrahs are most common, colour and pattern are a personal choice and do not indicate social status or tribal identity. Under the scarf a small white crochet hat, the gahffiyah, is worn. On top a black rope, the agal, holds the headdress in place. The way the guttrah is worn often indicates the mood of its wearer: A guttra piled high on the head might signal stress. The turban-like style, called “hamdaniya”, is mainly worn by youngsters and is considered informal and signals a relaxed mood. In public Emirati women wear an abaya, a loose black coat of fi ne material that covers the entire body, on top of their regular clothes. The hair is covered with a sheila, a black veil. Some women completely cover their faces, some leave just the eyes uncovered and others only cover their hair – depending on personal decision, level of religious devotion and family traditions. In rural areas it is still common for older ladies and married woman to wear a burqa, the traditional facemasks, covered outside with gold-coloured cloth. While traditional sheila-abaya ensembles used to be of plain black colour, modern outfits are often artfully decorated with embroidery or colourful borders. Ever more women joining the professional work environment prefer to stick to their traditional outfits but give it a personal, fashionable touch. Although ready-made outfits are available, most Emirati woman will have their abaya and matching sheila individually tailored.
e
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© TDIC
LUXURY DUBAI ABU DHABI
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CULTURE
Arabic Hospitality
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Each region has its own habits. The customs of welcome play a crucial role amongst various regional practices, since it ultimately defi nes the fi rst impression and, as is widely known, there is no second chance for a fi rst impression. As a gesture of hospitality in Arabia, a guest will be offered coffee and dates. The traditional Arabic coffee is made from ground beans, mixed with saffron and sometimes other spices, like cardamom. No milk or sugar is added. Since a guest could arrive at anytime, coffee is always ready and available – a tradition, that is still very much alive. The coffee used to be kept in a large dhalla, the traditional Arabic metal coffee pot. In order to keep the coffee always hot, the dhalla used to be placed in a bed of glowing charcoal, put in a pit in the sand in a special wooden box. Since charcoal boxes might not be the most practical solution in air-conditioned houses, thermos pots in the shape of the traditional dallah are commonly used nowadays.
remain alert to refi ll an emptied cup. If a guest wants to signal that he does not want more coffee, he should shake the cup slightly and hand it back to the host.
© Jumeriah Group
Once a guest arrives, the host will offer the coffee in a small cup without a handle. There really is an art in offering the coffee: the host will usually hold the cup in his right hand and pour the coffee with his left. It is considered a severe affront to fi ll the cup completely; it is served only one-third full. The host will offer the cup with his right hand to the guest, who should receive it with his right hand. The host will then serve other guests and always
The slightly bitter taste of the coffee is compensated by the sweetness of the dates, offered together with it. Dates originate on the Arabian Peninsula and were essential for the survival of the Bedouin in the harsh desert environment. The tribesmen often had no other source of food than camel milk and dates, the latter of which are high in fruit sugar and therefore a source of instant energy. Due to their fi bre structure, the fruits are gentle on the stomach, which makes them the perfect fast-breaker during Ramadan. About 150 different species of dates are cultivated in the UAE. Towards the end of the harvesting season in mid-summer, the city of Liwa hosts an annual date festival, celebrating this special fruit, which Arabs considered a special and very precious gift from God.
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CULTURE
Arabic Coffee Recipes
The ďŹ rst taste of Arabic coffee artful poured into its small porcelain cup is always a surprise: the light brown drink does not look anything like the common understanding of what coffee should look like. The smell is somehow also aromatic but not at all like fresh coffee. Ingredients as well as preparation make the difference. The beans are roasted in different ways depending on what strength and taste are desired. Light roasted beans are described as blond and give a fresh light taste. For the red coffee with a stronger but still not too bitter taste the beans are medium roasted. For the strongest, most bitter black coffee, the beans are roasted a dark brown. Upon personal taste and family tradition some cardamom might be mixed with the rough ground coffee. This is boiled with water and, just a few moments before pouring the drink into the pot, some saffron is usually added to the blond or red coffee. Arabic coffee is not sweetened. The dates, traditionally served with it, provide enough sweetness and contrast delicately with the revitalising drink. For service the coffee is poured from the large dhallah into smaller ones that are easier to handle and allow the coffee to be served artfully, as is customary. It may sound counterintuitive, but the inhabitants of desert regions know very well about the cooling effect of hot drinks: after a quick sweat ush the little hot drink will help cool you down, and the added dates provide the fast absorbed fruit sugar for an instant energy kick.
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© TDIC
LUXURY ABU DHABI
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CULTURE
Š Kempinski
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Traditional Emirati Food
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Balaleet
Traditional Emirati food is quite different to what is commonly known as “Arabic food”. Most dishes are stew-like, since ingredients are usually cooked together in one single pot. Saffron, cardamom, turmeric, thyme, rosewater and dried lemons give Emirati cuisine its special taste. Fresh vegetables are usually served as appetizers or side dishes. The cucumberyoghurt salad is a refreshing delicacy. A refreshing drink, traditionally served with the meal, is Arabic lemonade, made from freshly squeezed lemon juice blended with mint leaves. The meat used is mainly lamb, goat, chicken and birds, like the houbara. Camel meat is a considered an extraordinary delicacy, served at special occasions only. Fish and seafood are very popular. Machboos is a typical dish, made from meat, chicken or fi sh, cooked with onions, dried lime and spices. Once the meat is done, the stock is used to boil the rice. Layers of rice and the meat-vegetable mix are cooked for a few minutes together. The dish is served on large trays, garnished with nuts, raisins and fried onions. Thareed is a stew made from mixed vegetables like carrots, potatoes and pumpkin, cooked with chicken or lamb. The dish is traditionally served with thin Arabic bread. Madrooba is cooked from salt-cured fi sh, a regional delicacy, available at the traditional fi sh markets. After it has been thoroughly cleaned under running water, the fi sh is slowly cooked with some spices. Flour is added to thicken the sauce. Before serving the dish is topped off with clarified butter, ghee. A real specialty is harees, a dish cooked from ground wheat, and lamb or chicken. Boiled for several hours, the dish has the consistency of porridge and might not qualify as the most eye-catching ing food, but its full fl avour is a pleasant surprise. Harees is traditionally served ved during the holy month of Ramadan, and no wedding celebration menu would be complete without it.
Harees
Saloona
Thareed
Fresh fruits and sweets complete the meal. Luqeymat is an irresistible treat: reat: deep-fried balls of pancake batter rolled in sesame seeds and then covered ered with date syrup. Asseda, a cold dessert, is made of pumpkin and gets ts its typical orange colour from the added saffron. Tea with mint or traditional Arabic coffee is usually served at the end nd of a meal. The passing around of an incense burner, releasing a pleasant easant smell after the food, would signal the end of the meal in a private home and it’s customary that guests would leave shortly thereafter. Chicken Machboos
e Luqeymat
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SPORT
© Yas Marina Circuit
© TDIC
Sporting Abu Dhabi
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© ADTA
© Mubadala Word Tennis
Sporting Abu Dhabi
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Since its premier in 2006 the Abu Dhabi HSBC golf Championship has become one of the major events on the european tour, where it forms part of the gulf Swing. From 16-19 January 2014 the global golf elite will compete at the Abu Dhabi golf Club. In 2011 the event’s prize fund was raised to $2.7 million, making it the richest purse of the gulf Swing. In 2013 the Abu Dhabi HSBC golf Championship recorded its highest ever attendance figures, with more than 82,000 fans streaming through the national Course gates over the event’s four days. The 2013 participant’s list was named by the official golf rankings as the strongest ever field in a Middle east tournament, and included the world’s top four players, six of the top ten, three current holders of Major titles and, 14-time major winner tiger Woods. The Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club has a full calendar of events. The sailing races of the traditional wooden boats, the dhows, are the most spectacular and unique water sport events of the region: 60-foot dhow races are planned on 4 January, 5 February and 15 March. The 43-foot dhows will compete on 20 September, the 8 and 29
October. The races can be seen well from the Corniche and Breakwater Island. The UAE Wooden powerboat Championship will steer the waters in the afternoon of 7 February around Breakwater Island. Wooden powerboats are called ‘Al Shawaheef’ and have one or two drivers. The vessels are about 28 feet long, and built entirely from wood - modern materials like fi berglass are not allowed. About 20 boats, all from the gulf region, will compete in this very unique and spectacular race. The Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi grand prix is the highlight of city's motorsport calendar. Held on 26 October 2014 at the Yas Marina circuit, the race, being staged for the sixth time, will attract thousands of spectaculars from all over the world. Almost the whole city gets into race fever and days before the race the Corniche turns into a large fan zone. Race nights at the circuit traditionally end with spectacular concerts by international rock and pop stars. Abu Dhabi’s sporting year traditionally ends in December on a high note with the Mubadala World tennis Championship, held annually at the Abu Dhabi International tennis Complex at Zayed Sports City.
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SHOPPING
Top Women’s Fashion Donna Karan
Acqua Di Parma
Giuseppe Zanotti
Estee Lauder
Burberry
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Furla Elie Saab
Jaccobs Marc Jacobs
Shopping Malls ABU DHABI MALL
MARINA MALL
KHALIDIYAH MALL
Website Where
Website Where
Website Where
www.abudhabi-mall.com Tourist Club Area, adjacent to the Beach Rotana Hotel, on the 2nd Street, Sector 1-94 Telephone +971 2 645 4858 Opening hours Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM, Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM, Friday: 3:30 - 11 PM
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www.marinamall.ae Breakwater next to Abu Dhabi's Corniche, not far from the Hilton Hotel and Emirates Palace Hotel. Telephone +971 2 681 8300 Opening hours Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Friday: 2 - 11 PM
www.khalidiyahmall.com On 26 th Street between 9 th and 11th Street in the Khalidiya area Telephone +971 2 635 4000 Opening hours Sunday - Wednesday: 11 AM - 1 1 PM , Thursday - Saturday: 8 AM - noon
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SHOPPING SHO SHOP SSH HO HOP H OPPPPING O PIIN PIN IING NG N G
Fendi
Versace
Fendi
Jo Malone
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Amouage
Jobeeny
Evian
Salvatore Ferragamo
Shopping Malls AL WAHDA MALL
AL RAHA MALL
Website Where
Website Where
www.alwahda-mall.com At the junction of 11th street (Hazza Bin Zayed the First) with 2nd Street (Airport Road), near the Central Bus Stop and Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel Telephone +971 2 443 7070 Opening hours Sunday - Thursday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Friday to Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM
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www.al-rahamall.com Next to Al Raha Beach Hotel on Al Raha Beach Road, Al Raha district, 4048 Channel Street, Abu Dhabi Dubai Highway Road Telephone +971 2 556 2229 Opening hours Saturday - Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Friday: 2 PM - 11 PM
MADINAT ZAYED SHOPPING CENTER AND GOLD CENTER Website Where
Telephone Opening hours
www.madinatzayed-mall.com Between Jawasat Road, Airport Road, Electra Road and Muroor Road, near Abu Dhabi Central Post OfďŹ ce +971 2 633 3311 Saturday - Friday: 9 AM - 11 PM
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CULTURE
Abu Dhabi Cultural
The Al Dhafra Festival, held in January in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, is one of the largest desert heritage events in the world. The main actors and attractions of the festivals are the ships of the desert – the camels. Breeders come from all over the region to present their camels. The Abu Dhabi Festival, organised by the Abu Dhabi Music and Art Foundation, has over the years gained a reputation as one of the finest international art events. Classical concerts by international stars, exhibitions, artistic and cultural workshops, community events and symposia make the festival, held annually in March/April, the premier cultural event in the region. The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will open its doors from 30 April – 5 May 2014 in the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. With more than half a million titles on display and events for professional visitors as well as booklovers, the exhibition is a great crowd-puller in the capital.
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The WOMAD festival will take place in April at the Corniche beach and in the Jahili Fort in Al Ain. The three-day event features world music and performing arts and is free to attend. Probably the only festival dedicated to dates, the treasured fruit of the desert takes place in July in Liwa, the oasis city and centre of date farming in the Western Region of the Emirate. Dates and traditional handicrafts, utilising all the material provided by the palm tree, are the main focus of this authentic Emirati event. Abu Dhabi Classics present word-famous artists in the most spectacular of venues like the Emirates Palace, splendid outdoor stages and the historical Jahili Fort in Al Ain. The concerts take place in winter from October till May. In October the red carpet is rolled out for the international movie stars at the annual Abu Dhabi International Film Festival. Established in 2007, the event aims to boost local cinematic culture and nurture the growth of the local fi lm industry.
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© ADACH Abu Dhabi Festival ©
© Abu Dhabi Classics
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EVENTS
Abu Dhabi Events
2014
The emirate’s packed events calendar means visitors can join in a host of world-class experiences. To find out what is on during your stay, event information can be found at: www.visitabudhabi.ae www.abudhabievents.ae
ABU DHABI HSBC GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP January 16-19, 2014 Expect the Unexpected with the battle for the coveted Falcon Trophy in this curtain-raiser to the European PGA Tour at Abu Dhabi Golf Club’s National Course. Fans can expect to see Rory McIlroy; reigning US Open Champion, Justin Rose; former world number one Luke Donald and Abu Dhabi’s own record-breaking ambassador Matteo Manassero – and an astounding array of off-course entertainment at the Championship spectator village. www.abudhabigolfchampionship.com
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G OURMET A BU DHABI
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL TRIATHLON
February 4-19, 2014 This is a ‘lifestyle gastronomic extravaganza’ featuring a star-studded cast of Michelin-star chefs and special guests, master classes, industry insights from hospitality experts, and Chateau and gourmet dinners hosted by a range of the UAE capital’s top hotels. www.gourmetabudhabi.ae
March 15, 2014 This annual event attracts the world’s best triathletes and international amateurs. The race is contested across three distances. The 223kms main 'long course' boasts a gruelling 3km swim, a 200km cycle and 20km closing run. The 'short' course, at half the length, has a 1.5km swim, a 100km cycle and a 10 km run, while the sprint course - which can be run as a team relay - has a 750m swim, a 50km bike and 5km run. www.abudhabitriathlon.com
8TH INTERNATIONAL EMIRATES PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION EXHIBITION February 11, 2014 Running under the broad theme of ‘Decisive Moment’, this highly acclaimed annual international competition, now in its eighth year, features professional and amateur photography vying for a share of the prize purse of over AED1,000,000 (US$ 270,270), the highest in the world for such a competition. A wide selection of winning and distinct artworks is presented as part of a 30 day exhibition and will also be published in a book. Entrance is free. www.ephotoc.net
ABU DHABI FESTIVAL March/April 2014 This highly successful international festival advances classical music and fine arts among Abu Dhabi residents and visitors. A culturally-rich and diverse event, it features world-class performances from the likes of Gustavo Dudamel & The Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra Of Venezuela, jazz icon Herbie Hancock, opera diva Renée Fleming and the acclaimed American Ballet Theatre will all perform 2014. www.abudhabifestival.ae
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ABU DHABI DESERT CHALLENGE
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR
LIWA DATE FESTIVAL
April 2014 This is one of the world’s most prestigious international cross country rallies and runs annually in and around Liwa, in Abu Dhabi’s vast Rub al Khali desert. This five-day motor sport spectacle is organised by the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE and is the season-opening round of both the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup and the FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship. www.abudhabidesertchallenge.com
April 30-May 5, 2014 Held annually at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, this is the Arabian Gulf’s fastestgrowing book fair with in excess of 600,000 titles on display. www.adbookfair.com
July, 2014 This annual event explores the intricacies of date production and the varied products this desert fruit is now lending itself to. A fascinating insight into many desert traditions, the festival includes a date beauty contest, a date auction and educational sessions on how to care for palm trees. www.liwadatesfestival.ae
AL GHARBIA WATERSPORTS FESTIVAL April 2014 An all-watersports extravaganza on the beach in the charming fi shing town of Mirfa in Al Gharbia – Abu Dhabi’s Western Region. The festival is fi lled with wonder, water and world-class athletes. From kiteboards and surf ski kayaks in the waves to chilled-out camping and concerts on shore, the UAE’s wettest, wildest week. www.algharbia.ae
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SUMMERFEST ABU DHABI June-August, 2014 A mega summer promotion with spectacular fl ight, attraction and hotel deals, this is an extravaganza spanning mid-summer, the Holy Month of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and the destination’s traditional EidFest celebrations. SummerFest Abu Dhabi revolves around a family-friendly hub of edutainment activities, world-class shows and exciting international performances spread over four action-packed halls at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). www.summerfestabudhabi.ae
ABU DHABI HUNTING & EQUESTRIAN EXHIBITION (ADIHEX) September, 2014 This is the Arabian Gulf’s most renowned hunting and equestrian exhibition where visitors can enjoy camel auctions, saluki and falcon beauty contests, art and coffee-making competitions and a variety of traditional hunting and equestrian activities. www.adihex.com
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EVENTS
EIDFEST ABU DHABI
YASALAM - PULSE OF THE CAPITAL
ABU DHABI ART
October, 2014 Our Eid. Your Eid - This concept – now in its third edition – brings together a collection of celebratory activities and the spirit of sharing to Abu Dhabi’s visitors and residents, centred on the Islamic festivities of Eid Al Adha. www.visitabudhabi.ae
September - October, 2014 Abu Dhabi will be alive with a packed Yasalam Festival programme of free events, activities and concerts surrounding the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Join the F1 FanZone™ on Abu Dhabi Corniche including free concerts during Beats on the Beach weekend and a host of activities at Yas Marina and Yas Plaza. www.yasalam.ae
November, 2014 A popular art fair and a modern and contemporary art platform with public programmes, Abu Dhabi Art brings together leading art galleries from across the world. Showcasing a variety of works, from museum-quality pieces to those by emerging artists, the event is at the UAE Pavilion and Manarat Al Saadiyat on Saadiyat Island. Entry is free. Participants have to register and some areas have age restrictions. Workshops are charged. www.abudhabiartfair.ae
ABU DHABI FILM FESTIVAL October, 2014 The Abu Dhabi Film Festival presents an exciting programme showcasing the best Arab fi lmmaking alongside the cream of world cinema. This year feature and short fi lms from all over the world will compete and there will be nine days of cinema screenings, red carpet premieres, fi lmmaking classes and events at various venues. www.abudhabifi lmfestival.ae
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2014 FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS A BU DHABI GRAND P RIX October 24-26, 2014 Whether you’re a fi rst timer or a Grand Prix veteran, there’s more to Formula F1® in Abu Dhabi! Held yearly at the 5.6 km Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island, this is where fans get a close view of the action. The new Yasalam Y1 Access gives ticket holders a year-round package of value-added benefits and exclusive live concert ticket discounts. www.yasmarinacircuit.com
COUTTS POLO AT THE PALACE November, 2014 Coutts Polo at the Palace takes place at the Emirates Palace hotel with a ‘Palace Rules’ concept designed by the world’s best players to enhance the spectator experience. www.citypoloseries.com/poloatthepalace
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SHEIKH MANSOUR BIN ZAYED GLOBAL ARABIAN FLAT RACING FESTIVAL November 2014 Suit up in your Sunday best and head to Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club for the fi nale of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Global Arabian Flat Racing Festival – a globetrotting 10-race series. Launched to increase the global diversity of purebred Arabian horse racing, this year’s event also includes the fi nale of the inaugural Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies World Championship - the fi rst international purebred Arabian series specifically-created for female jockeys. Entrance is free. www.sheikhmansoorfestival.com
UAE NATIONAL DAY December 2, 2014 This annual two day festival on Abu Dhabi's Corniche features live concerts and entertainment as the city literally comes alive with joyful and exuberant celebration. Buildings are decorated with thousands of lights, which illuminate the city with brilliant colour. www.visitabudhabi.ae
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AL DHAFRAH CAMEL FESTIVAL
MUBADALA WORLD TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP
December, 2014 Held in Madinat Zayed in Abu Dhabi’s Al Gharbia (Western) region, this annual festival celebrates the importance of the ship of the desert in Emirati society. An intriguing insight into the relationship of this crucial desert animal and man, the festival is a visitor experience with a difference and includes the world’s only camel beauty contest. www.algharbia.ae, www.algharbiafestivals.com
December, 2014 Six of the world’s top ten players compete for the ‘winner takes all’ US $250,000 prize. Staged yearly at Abu Dhabi International Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City, and presented by Flash Entertainment, this is one of the Arabian Gulf’s fastest-growing and most popular sporting events. www.mubadalawtc.com, www.thinkflash.ae
VOLVO OCEAN RACE – THE ABU DHABI STOPOVER December 17, 2014 - January 3, 2015 Abu Dhabi is the host of the third 2014-15 Volvo Ocean Race stopover from mid-December 2014 until January 3, 2015. The In-Port Race takes place on January 2, 2015, with the fleet departing for Sanya, China the following day. The stopover, which coincides with the New Year 2015 holiday, features a fan-friendly Destination Village activation on the Corniche breakwater and multiple concert and entertainment offerings. www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com
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ADNEC EXHIBITIONS & SHOWS All year round Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is the region’s largest and most modern facility of its kind. Throughout the year it hosts a variety of exhibitions and entertainment shows. The ADNEC complex includes luxury hotels, restaurants and a marina. www.adnec.ae
YAS ISLAND SHOWS All year round A wide range of entertainment shows and concerts take place in Yas Island’s Du Arena and Du Forum organised by Flash Entertainment. www.thinkflash.ae
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ART
Abu Dhabi Art
ART GALLERIES IN ABU DHABI Abu Dhabi Art Hub The First Art community in UAE. Abu Dhabi Art Hub is UAE’s fi rst “Live & Work Artists” destination. Positioned as an inspirational platform for local and global artists to work, exhibit and promote work of arts. Set to boost up young artists and support genuine art works. Located in Musaffah, the Art Hub to support the revival of arts in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Tel.: Fax.: E-mail: Website: Facebook: Twitter: Address:
+971 2 551 5005 +971 2 555 0557 arthub@live.com www.adah.ae www.facebook.com/ADarthub adarthub Plot 38, MW5, Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Etihad Antique Gallery Antiques do have a magical spell on collectors, especially if sold in an enchanting, unique like Abu Dhabi. Often, these merchants did not know the value of the products they were merchandising. Ettihad Antiques Gallery was the first serious attempt in Abu Dhabi to make antique display and appreciation a modern and professional art. Founded by two expert, Khalid Seddiq and Mohammed Khalil in 2004, the gallery is located in the capital of United Arab Emirates, with products that vary in age, history, origin, and value, stretching from Persian Gulf and Arabia. Some date back to the 17th century while others are from the 20th. Not everyone who enters is required to buy, or expected to be a collector. Part of our goal is to increase
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antique appreciation and awareness in United Arab Emirates. We want people to walk in, feel the magic of antiquities, and appreciate the fine products on display. Antiques are an education and an art, before being a business. Tel.: Fax: Mob.: Email: Website: Address:
+971 2 644 4366 +971 2 645 2597 +971 50 622 1333 office@etihadgallery.com www.etihadgallery.com Opposite to Al Bateen Mall, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Folklore Gallery One of the oldest galleries in the city, with a focus on affordable art, silk paintings and Arabic themes. Those looking to start their own collection without spending a fortune should drop by. Tel.: Fax.: E-mail: Website: Address:
Etihad Modern Art Gallery Etihad Modern Art Gallery in Abu Dhabi, UAE, encourages the creation of art with local references, showcasing work from well established as well as new Emirati and international artists. It is a dynamic multi-function art space that aims to play a positive role to the brightly emerging art scene in Abu Dhabi, opening a dialogue with the public, introducing new art concepts and challenging activities. Since the launch, Etihad Modern Art Gallery and Arthouse Cafe are rapidly becoming the centre of a lively community of art enthusiasts. Tel.: Fax: Mob.: Email: Website: Address:
+971 2 6671229 +971 2 645 2597 +971 56 386 5600 office@etihadmodernart.com www.etihadmodernart.com Opposite to Al Bateen Mall, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, UAE
+971 2 666 0361 +971 2 666 9668 folkloregallery@hotmail.com www.folkloregallery.net Zayed 1 st St, Opposite Dana Plaza and next to First Gulf Bank, Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Gallery One Gallery One is the largest branded gallery group in the region and the home of 'great things for walls'. Browse contemporary art and decorative photographic prints in a welcoming and open environment. Tel.: Fax.: E-mail: Website: Address:
+ 971 2 558 1822 + 971 2 558 1823 info@g-1.com www.g-1.com Store 27, Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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Ghaf Art Gallery Established in 2006, Ghaf is Abu Dhabi's first independent gallery dedicated to contemporary art. Owned by Mohamed Kanoo & Jalal Luqman, two internationally renowned Emirati artists, the gallery aims to cultivate the growth and development of the capital's art scene by offering exhibiting opportunities to new, local talent eager to reach an attentive audience. The gallery features 1,500 square feet of prime exhibition space and can comfortably accommodate guests for launch receptions. The Ghaf gallery has an ambitious agenda of mixed and solo exhibitions, nurturing an appreciation for fine art, featuring local, regional and international names. Tel.: Fax.: E-mail: Website: Address:
+971 2 665 5332 +971 2 665 5292 ghafgallery@gmail.com www.ghafartgallery.com Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (30th), between 7th and 9 th street, near Khalidiya Garden, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Manarat Al Saadiyat Set up by Abu Dhabi's Tourism Development and Investment Company TDIC, the arts- and cultural centre Manarat Al Saadiyat brings the vision of the island and it´s cultural district to light. The permanent exhibition “The Saadiyat Story” focuses on the developing cultural district. Models of the upcoming
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attractions like the Guggenheim Museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed National Museum allow visitors a glimpse into the capital's future vision, to become a major cultural hub of the Arabian world. The adjoining three galleries showcase regular themed exhibitions of international art. Tel.: +971 2 657 5800 E-mail: manaratalsaadiyat@tdic.ae Website: www.saadiyat.ae Address: Sheik Khalifa Bridge, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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art spaces in the capital and is continuously involved in the cultural movement in the region through art fairs such as Abu Dhabi Art Fair, Art Dubai and Art India, and renowned auction houses such as Christie’s and Sotheby’s.. Tel./Fax: E-mail: Website: Facebook: Address:
+971 2 666 9656 info@salwazeidangallery.com www.salwazeidangallery.com www.facebook.com/salwazeidangallery Konghi Complex, Villa #4, Bain Al Jesrain, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Salwa Zeidan Gallery The Barakat Gallery Salwa Zeidan Gallery was fi rst opened in Abu Dhabi in 1994 and reopened again in January 2009 under the Patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. In addition to nurturing local talent, the gallery has become renowned for its selective representation of 35 of the region’s most prominent artists in a variety of mediums and styles including sculptors, painters, photographer and Multimedia. The success of the projects undertaken by the gallery has affi rmed its credibility and reputation as one of the main references for Islamic, regional and local art. It operates its own independent printing and framing facilities which enables it to control the overall quality of the digital works being produced thus making it an ideal partner for major projects that require large orders at competitive rates. Today, the gallery is a major reference for private and corporate collectors in the UAE that include members of the royal family. The art gallery is one of the most active
The Barakat Gallery is a fi fth generation family owned and operated business, founded in Jerusalem over 100 years ago. The Gallery is a purveyor of museum quality ancient art specializing in Classical antiquities, Near Eastern, Biblical, Chinese, Pre-Columbian, Byzantine, Asian, African and Primitive arts. We also specialize in ancient Numismatics and fi ne jewelry. Our clientele is varied, including museums, corporations, private collectors and investors from all over the world. For the past century, the Barakat Family has been fortunate to have assisted in the formation of some of the most important art collections in the world. Tel.: Fax.: E-mail: Website: Address:
+971 2 690 8950 +971 2 690 8951 barakat@barakatgallery.com www.barakatgallery.com Emirates Palace, Corniche Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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SIGHTSEEING
Al Jahili Fort
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Historical Buildings in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi Thh ol The oldes des de est h ist i tori orical or ori call bu build ildd ing in on o Ab Abuu Dhab h bi Isla slland nd iiss the he Qa he Q srr A All Hos Hos Ho o n, n , the h he soso-cal o- cal a lledd Wh W iite tee Fo Fort. Thhe isla i sla sland nd becc ame am m pe p rma rmanen nently nen tly in inhab h bite habite hab itedd after ftter the fte the discov dis cov overy ov ery r off frresh wa water ter to t war wards d the ds thh ennd of the thee 18 thh ce centu ntu ry. ryy. In I or order de to der t p tec pro teectt the pre p cio cious us supply sup upplyy, a waatch chtow tow ower er bec became be a e tthhe fi rsst ssoli am ame olidd stru ol oli stru uctu c ttu ree on on the is th the i slan l d in la i n 17600. The T he he tow toowerr was was ex xten teen ended deed annd rresh e shh apeed oover esh ver thhe cent cent ennt uri rriieess i nnto a fo int in forrt r t tha hatt serv serv e edd as er as a resi resi esiden dence den ence c for thhe r ule ull r. Unt Untilili 1966 1966 6 it it w was as the as thh re iide res iddence ooff Ab Abuu Dhab Dhabbi’s ’ss ruu lin lingg Al A l Nahy N ahy ah aann fam amily ily.. In ily I n orde rderr to to pre reserv res eserv erve rve thhe ffrr agile the agi gi le his h tor hi tor ica icall bui u iildi uil d iin g, extens din ext x enssive i wo work rrk k is i s und nder der pro r ggre ress. e ss. ss Once Onnccee ree tor res t ati ation on has ha be b enn com omple pl ted ple t , Qasr a Al A l Ho Hosn sn wil w i l once once nce ag again ain i be b e ma m de d access acc essibl ess blle to to vvisi i tor isi ors. s s. N ex Nex x t to to t he h modd ern e rn M Maaqta br b idge, idg dge,, at the t he ed edge d gee of of Abu b u Dhabi Dhh abi a Is Islan s lan land, d, stands sta nd th nds t h e 2002 0000-yea yyeaa r-o -old -o ldd Maqqtaa For F o t, t, bu bui ui ld l too pro protec tee ctt aand tec nd con nd coo tro troll acce ccess sss to the ma main in isl i sland andd vi v a t he h ne nea eaa rby b foordd of th the h saa me nam n am me. e. The Th Ab Abuu Dhab Dhab habii Touu ris r m Auth uthori ut ority ori ty now ha hass a visit v i sit vi sitor or cen cenntre r in th thee old l fo for fort. o t. t
T Oa Th The Oasis sii off Al sis A l Ai A nn,, lloc oc ate tee d aarou rou rou ou ndd 150 500 km k m ea e a st st off tthe thh e ca capit ppitt al, all, l , is is surr rounde su rou nnde rou de d b y some me off tthh e m most oost os s be b e aaut beaut au ut ifu full fortifi fu ort ifi ort ified if edd bbui buu i ldi ldings di ngss in i n th t h e UAE. A AE Th Al The Al Ja Jahi Jahil h ili i Fort hil Fort r is is of of ppaarti tiicul u ar ul a sig ignifi nifi ifica ccaance nc aass th thee birt bir irthpl irt h lace hp hpl ce off th t e late Pr P esi esiden deent den aandd foouund an unndderr of the h UA UAE UAE, E,, She She Sh heikh ikh Zaayed yed Biin Suult ltaann A All Nah Nahyan yan.. It was yan was built buuiltt in bui in 18911 ttoo defe 189 defeend the ci city ty and n thhe oasi asiss with ith it i s pprec recious rec iou iou ous palm palm allm tr trees ees e . It It w was a the as th headqu hea dquart dq dqu rtters er of of the thhe Oman Oman m Tr Truci uci ucial ciaall Sc Scoouts uts annd the the he res reeside reside deence dence nce off Al Al Ai Ain’s Ain’s n Go n’ G ver v nor n . no Th fo The fort fort rt is now w op o en to vvis isito itors ito r and ho h sts ts a pperrma mannent nnt phhoto t ex exhib hi iti hib t on ti o of wor work by thee Br by B iti itish ishh adv dvveent nture nt urerr and andd pho photog to rap tog ra herr Wi W lfred lfr fred ed The hesig si er. sig r. Thee Su Sulta ltann b in Zay lta Zayed edd for ort, t, also als lso k nnow w n aass t hee Eas Eaa ter t rnn F ort ort,, d ate or atess bback ack c too ck 1 1 0. 191 0 In I n its i pr it proxi oximit ox oxi m y iiss the mit t he Al A l Ain in Na N ational Natio t ioonal Mu tio M useu s um seu m.. The h e paa lac lacee of t he h e former for or mer pr presi esi siden si dennt, t Sheikh Shh e ikh She ik k h Zaayyed edd Bi B inn S ult ultan lt an lt a n All Nah N ah yan Nahyan yan, a , alsoo b uillt in als i n 1 91 910 1 00,, hhas a bee as b eenn complet ompplet lettely ell re r nov novaate novate tee d a ndd con c ver co ve tted e d in into to a to mu eum mus m , ggivi iving iv ivi vi ng vis visito i ito ittors r a ver e ryy prr iv ery ivaattee ins ivate n igh ns i h t i nto ight nt th t h e ddail the aill y l ife ffe of th thee ruul ing fa rul famil mily. mil y y.
© TDIC
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE
Culture and Heritage KHOR AL MAQTA, QARYAT AL BERI AREA, MAQTA FORT Khor al Maqta is a landmark and very recently developed neighbourhood of Abu Dhabi. The UAE's capital became today's modern vibrant city only over the past 40 years. Known historically as “milh” – from the Arabic world for salt – the island was not inhabited until the mid-18th century and was only visited during the hunting and fi shing season by tribesmen, heading from the Liwa Oasis.
Maqta Fort and Maqta Bridge
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© TCA
When the fresh-water well was discovered towards the edge of the island, the fi rst settlers moved to the island and secured the precious water source with a watchtower, which became part of the fi rst permanent structure on the island, Al Hosn, nowadays also known as the “White Fort”. From the early days of the settlement until the 1960s, the only access to the island was via the Maqta ford, which could be crossed only during times of low tide, making this shallow water area a critical and strategically important crossing.
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE
Maqta Fort A watchtower was erected soon after the island was inhabited. This tower was part of the Fort Al Mahal, which guarded the way towards the settlement. The tower was preserved and is as one of the oldest historical buildings in Abu Dhabi. Today, Maqta Fort stands as a small hidden treasure literally in the shadow of the always busy Maqta Bridge on a small rocky island at the mouth of the Khor Al Maqta. Being one of the very few historical structures in the capital, the fort has been carefully renovated in order to preserve this valuable architectural and historical treasure.
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE
Maqta Bridge
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Maqta Bridge The Maqta Bridge was build in the 1970s, connecting the capital island at its eastern edge with the mainland. Only a few years later a second crossing, the Mussafah Bridge, was built, providing easy access to the western side of the island. Due to its fast growth, it was a matter of a few years only before the city spread from the island toward the mainland. Abu Dhabi's urban development is inseparable from the discovery of oil. During the pioneering years of the petroleum discovery the fi rst solid structures related to the industry were erected in the area around
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the Maqta Bridge. One of the most unique landmarks of this area is the Petroleum Institute, created in 2001 with the goal of establishing a world-class institution in engineering education and research in areas of significance to oil and gas and the broader energy industries. The institute is sponsored and affi liated to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and four major international oil companies. The Petroleum Institute is affi liated with the Colorado School of Mines and the University of Maryland and more than 500 engineers have graduated since 2006.
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE
Qaryat Al Beri area and The Souk
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A new residential area with low-rise buildings and villa compounds grew between the bridges. Located between the Maqta and Musaffah bridges in Abu Dhabi, the Souk Qaryat Al Beri is the latest among a string of projects being developed in the Qaryat Al Beri area, adjacent to the Shangri-La Abu Dhabi. Qaryat Al Beri is one of the most distinguished waterfront projects in Abu Dhabi. Built on two levels, the Souk is an interesting fusion of Arabian architecture and a Venetian theme. Water canals meander through the Souk and nearby properties with abras ferrying hotel guests from the Shangri-La to various locations. Several restaurants and coffee shops have alfresco dining terraces that overlook the waters and accord a view of the picturesque landscape. Well-known restaurants also serve international cuisine including Italian, Japanese, Arabic, and Indian varieties. Spread over a total floor area of 6,222 square metres comprising retail and F&B outlets, the Souk promises to be the ultimate destination not only for tourists but also for Abu Dhabi residents. The Qaryat Al Beri Resort Development Company LLC is a joint venture between Al Jaber Group and the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC). The Souk is unique, the fi rst of its kind in Abu Dhabi. It was built to showcase Arabian architecture and reflect traditional Arab hospitality and generosity. The opening ceremony, which took place on 28 October 2008 included a ribbon cutting and a tour of the premises by HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon (Chairman of ADTA), and was attended by HE Obaid Khaleefa Al Jaber, Chairman of Qaryat Al Beri Resort Development Company LLC. The Souk has become very popular amongst residence and visitors alike. Designed to be the meeting place of choice for both leisure and business, it is an exclusive and exceptional feature for retail and food and beverage brands from the region and around the world.
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The Souk The Souk was built by Qaryat Al Beri Resort Development Company LLC, a joint venture between Al Jaber Group and the Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC). The opening ceremony took place on the 28th of October 2008 attended by the Chairman of ADTA, HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon and HE Obaid Khaleefa Al Jaber, Chairman of Qaryat Al Beri Resort and Development Company LLC. The inspiration was to create a themed-attraction, an ultimate destination for opulent indulgence and lavish luxury that would compliment with the objective of the Qaryat Al Beri Resort Development Company in offering a relaxing ambient while showcasing Arabian architecture and reflecting traditional Arab hospitality and generosity. With a total floor area of 6,222 square meters located between Maqta and Musaffah bridges in Abu Dhabi, the Souk is the latest among a string of projects being developed in the Qaryat Al Beri area, one of the most distinguished waterfront projects in Abu Dhabi, The Souk also is adjacent to the Shangri-La Hotel and Traders Hotel, Abu Dhabi.
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Built on two levels, the Souk is an interesting fusion of Arabian architecture with a Venetian theme. Water canals meander through the Souk and nearby properties with abras ferrying hotel guests from Shangri-La to various locations within the complex. Comprising retail and F&B outlets, the Souk aimed to be the meeting place where tradition moulds with modernity and a choice for both leisure and business having 12 exclusive restaurants offering a culinary treat that traverses the globe. From Italian pastas and pizzas, through the distinctive dishes of the African sub-continent and the traditional fare of Japan to the exotic tastes of India, Arabia and Lebanese – all tastes are catered for. As part of the unique shopping experience of Abu Dhabi, the Souk features a number of shops designed to offer something for everyone from children to adults, plus a supermarket and a money exchange shop to conveniently cater to guests' essential needs.
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Trendy and customised jewelry designs are also available from our top-of-the-line jewelry shops, along with luxury perfumes made by distinctive Emirati perfumers from the region. Moreover, the Souk has a marina that offers berth rentals for a vibrant experience of gazing at the magniďŹ cent blue skies, with a view of the Grand Mosque and the sensation of the Gulf breeze stirring your soul.
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The opening ceremony, which took place on 28 October 2008 included a ribbon cutting and a tour of the premises by HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon (Chairman of ADTA), and was attended by HE Obaid Khaleefa Al Jaber, Chairman of Qaryat Al Beri Resort Development Company LLC. The Souk has become very popular amongst residence and visitors alike. Designed to be the meeting place of choice for both leisure and business, it is an exclusive and exceptional feature for retail and food and beverage brands from the region and around the world.
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LA MARQUISE La Marquise arquise embodies the highest level of superiority, with its exotic collection that captures the essence of elegance in the finest range of jewellery. The wide collection arquise has exquisitely crafted designs that are created to light up the occasion of La Marquise ts brilliant collection resembles the and enhance the look of every woman it adorns. Its image of infinity, happiness, power and contemporary glamour that holds everyone captivated. We aim to appeal to our various clientele with exquisite and eye-catching designs in our superbly ambient retail stores. Ann attributed, highly-skilled and award-winning creative team and a dedicated group of sales professionals strive to reassure the customer by facilitating in depth advice and knowledge which enriches the shopping experience. ETERNALLY YOURS.... www.lamarquisejewellery.com
NICOLI BAGS Every time we create a new collection, we always try to identify ourselves with those who choose our bags, with those who will share a lot of hours in the day with that “model”: women who travel, who live here or anywhere around the world, who are strong, but who can get emotional in front of something they love, who are practical and want to share it through the purse they choose. Yes, women’s time has always inspired our work, ever since we created our first bag in 1975. Women guide our research into materials, colours, shapes. we think about them, about their gestures even when we get down to the details, to the attention to the seams and to the raw cut trim. a woman looks at everything and can see everything in a purse. So do our designers who are young and always look curiously to the future. www.nicoliitalia.com
YATEEM YAT YA TEEM OPTICIAN OP TICIA OPT ICIAN N Yateem Optician has been in the vision care industry for more than a century now. Spread across the Middle East with more than 80 stateof-the-art showrooms, we cater to a diverse clientele. Experienced optometrists, availability of quality ophthalmic lenses and a plethora of international eyewear brands make us one of the most preferred optical outlets in the region. Be it eye testing, consultation for vision-correction or finding frames that suit your tastes and personality, our staff lends you the best service and assistance. All our showrooms are equipped with computerised ophthalmic devices on a par with international standards. Bringing together matchless experience and expertise, Yateem Optician provides world-class eye care services. www.yateemgroup.com
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AMOUAGE At the heart of all Amouage creations is a signature accord that cultivates the ultimate luxury of being unique and distinctive. Adopting an artistic approach to create an original and evocatively fragrant experience, Amouage perfumes are created by internationally recognised perfumers in Grasse in the south of France under the guidance of Amouage Creative Director, Christopher Chong. Amouage is a lifestyle sought after by only the most sophisticated and discerning international consumer. Today, it has a stellar following around the world including royals, global leaders and some of the most celebrated names in film, television, fashion, sport and music. www.amouage.com
GIZIA Besides the power of 25 years experience and strong infrastructure, GIZIA, which holds an international business mentality and great targets, has already became the most important representative of Turkish textile and fashion. GIZIA has brought a new aspect to Turkish textile through its design team, accepted as a trendsetter, as well as the company's huge efforts on every area of production and high volume. In a short period of time it has become a worldwide brand, with its quality standards among the highest, putting it on a par with the very best international brands. GIZIA is followed and appreciated by fashion authorities all over the world via its chic, feminine and sophisticated style, products of "haute couture" quality and the company's growth rate.
BATEEL - CHOCOLATES & DATES The Bateel story starts in Al Ghat, a town in central Arabia, favoured by nature with sweet water, rich soil and a climate ideal for date production. Here is where Bateel's premium dates were first nurtured and the idea of gourmet dates was born. The evolution to gourmet food production happened over the years, first by combining dates with gourmet chocolate, then by fusing dates with other delicacies, adding diverse deluxe treats and finally perfecting Bateel's integrated production assets and its network of luxurious boutiques and cafĂŠs. Bateel has achieved a rare distinction: it has grown from a name associated with deluxe dates to a leading brand in the gourmet food market. With a strong market presence in 16 countries, Bateel's deluxe boutiques and elegant cafĂŠs adorn premium-shopping destinations in major cities, stretching from London to Jakarta.
www.gizia.com
e
www.bateel.com
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Sheikh Zayed Bridge Until the mid '70s, planning a trip to Abu Dhabi would always include checking on the tide, since the only way to get on to the island was via a small ford next to Maqta Fort. In order to provide more comfortable and less hazardous access to the capital, the Maqta Bridge was build in 1975, connecting the eastern edge of the island with the mainland. The Musaffah Bridge connects traffic from the western side of the island with the mainland,
providing smooth access to the Musaffah industrial areas and Mussaffah Port. Opened in November 2010, the Sheikh Zayed Bridge became the third connection, featuring four lanes in each direction and easing access for trafďŹ c from the capital's city centre to the main highway towards Dubai. The 842 metre long arched bridge, designed by architect Zaha Hadid, and features a unique light design, making the structure a most impressive sight at night.
Sheikh Zayed Bridge
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Modern Buildings in Abu Dhabi
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Futuristic structures of steel and glass side by side with lavish Arabic inspired buildings – this is Abu Dhabi, the modern capital of the United Arab Emirates, creating an architectural fusion of tradition and modernity. The Emirates Palace, Qasr Al Emarat, is an Arabian landmark. The majestic palace, a five-star luxury hotel, a venue for world-class events and a residence for guests of the state, sits like a jewel in a crown at the edge of Abu Dhabi’s main island. It is surrounded by fresh green gardens and sparkling water fountains. The building has a stunning number of 114 domes, the central one rising 72.6 metres above the ground. The fi nest material has been used for the interior: gold, mother of pearl and crystals dominate the design. With the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the third largest in the world, the city has one of the most stunning sacred buildings.
Hyatt Capital Gate Hotel
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Al Maryah Island
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ICONIC BUILDINGS Abu Dhabi
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Gold ATM in Emirates Palace
The Breakwater is an artifi cial island, banked up initially with the debris of old buildings as protection for Abu Dhabi’s most exposed coastline. The island is home to the Emirates Heritage Village, an outdoor museum, featuring Abu Dhabi's history. The 122 metre high fl agpole at the edge of the Breakwater was erected in 2001 to mark the 30 th anniversary of the UAE and fl ies a fl ag of 20 by 40 metres. Abu Dhabi hold’s the world record for the “furthest leaning man-made tower” as it is officially described by the Guinness World Records. The 35 storey Capital Gate tower, a hotel building next to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, has an 18-degree lean. In comparison, the famous Leaning Towers of Pisa tilts only four degrees. Abu Dhabi’s main island was a few years ago extended seaward in order to create space between the modern skyscrapers and the azure blue water of the Arabian Gulf for the sophisticated eight kilometre long new Corniche. Immaculate parks and gardens, small restaurants and a wide beach make the Cornice an oasis of tranquillity in the middle of the vibrant city centre. Abu Dhabi’s skyscrapers are functional buildings, accommodating the commercial and administrative offices of the capital. Yet each has its own unique features, some details of which are not obvious at first glance. The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority building might look like an ordinary modern tower; only from a bird's eye perspective does its dollar-sign shape become obvious. Architects in Abu Dhabi are encouraged to try new and unique designs: The headquarters of Aldar, a property developer, was nicknamed “The Coin” due to its shape. The Yas Maine circuit, Abu Dhabi’s racecourse at The Yas Island, combines motorsport facilities with luxury lifestyle. The racetrack is embedded among luxury hotel developments, such as the futuristic Yas Viceroy hotel, built directly over the track. With its 200,000 square metre red roof, Ferrari World is not only a stunning building, but also the world’s largest indoor theme park.
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Emirates Palace (
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Š Emirates Palace
Emirates Palace
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ICONIC BUILDINGS Abu Dhabi
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ICONIC BUILDINGS Abu Dhabi
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Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi
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© Jehad Alzaabia
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Sowwah Square
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Al Maryah Island
e Al Maryah Island (formerly Sowwah Island) is a world class mixed-use development in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Al Maryah Island will be a major catalyst in the city's drive to achieve Abu Dhabi's Urban Structure Framework Plan objective of environmental, economic and social sustainability by 2030. This thriving, high-density residential, retail, leisure, hotel and commercial district will have a working population of 75,000 and will be home to 30,000 residents, living an urban lifestyle enlivened by everything the modern city dweller demands in a contemporary cityscape: parks and open spaces, art galleries, community centers, high street and high fashion retail names, designer boutiques and a wide arrange of street cafés and world class restaurants. Designed to underpin Abu Dhabi's long-term economic and commercial
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growth, Al Maryah Island is emerging as an all-round model for urban living in the 21 st century. Al Maryah Island (formerly Sowwah Island) is a 114 hectare mixed-use development, designated by the emirate's Urban Planning Council to be the capital's Central Business District. The island is being developed in three phases. The first phase, Sowwah Square, will provide 450,000 sqm of office, hotel and retail space. The island occupies a unique location at a midpoint between Abu Dhabi's existing downtown district, the upcoming developments at Al Reem Island and Mina Zayed, and the new cultural district on Saadiyat Island. In this strategic position it creates a natural hub for Abu Dhabi - a vibrant core, combined with landmark architecture, seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the city by state-of-the-art, multi-tiered transport infrastructure.
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The Galleria A VISION OF LUXURY BROUGHT TO LIFE Enticing its cosmopolitan audience with a chic selection of designer labels and dining venues, The Galleria merges great fashion taste with delectable culinary flavours in one unforgettable destination. The Galleria features the largest collection of luxury brands under one roof, extending its high-life offering with sophisticated chef-driven restaurants. From discovering the latest high-fashion collections straight from international catwalks to lounging at the city’s trendiest venues, visitors can satisfy their discerning taste, day and night. From the moment visitors cross the ceremonial grand entrance of the 33,000 sqm retail district,
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the tone is set for an exceptional customer experience. Framed by the stunning sculptural glass and steel atrium structure, The Great Room forms the heart of the precinct’s retail and dining mix whilst offering spectacular views over Abu Dhabi island. As a concentration of life’s finest things, The Galleria is the new epicenter of luxury that draws the international fashion set to its doorstep. Presenting the highest concentration of luxury retailers in the Middle East, and a world-class repertoire of aspirational brands, The Galleria is home to 130 retail outlets. The Galleria personifies style, luxury and elegance.
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As a beacon for F&B in the region, The Galleria offers an electric mix of restaurants in exceptional surroundings. Presenting 25 licensed and unlicensed dining options, signature chef-driven and fine dining restaurants will complement iconic cafĂŠs and quick service casual dining as the culinary diversity of offerings will cater to every taste.
Outdoor seating offering outstanding waterfront views and two contemporary cafĂŠ terraces situated at the north and south of The Galleria provide an airy ambiance and vibrant mix of welcoming restaurants.
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BCBG Max Azria
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Fendi
Diane Von Furstenberg
Loius Loiu s Vuitton V
Dolce & Gabbana
The Galleria Explore the region’s largest collection of luxury brands under one roof. From designer fashion to accessories and beauty products, fi nd what your heart is searching for.
The Galleria Al Maryah Island Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Tel: Web:
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+971 2 6166 999 www.thegalleria.ae
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ICONIC BUILDINGS Abu Dhabi
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Aldar Headquarters Building
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ICONIC BUILDINGS
©E Et Etihad t ih ihad hhad aadd Towers Tow T To oow wer eers rs rs
Abu Dhabi
The Etihad Towers
Etihad Towers
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ChloĂŠ
Bulgari
Manolo Blahnik
Tom Ford
Avenue at Etihad Towers Welcome to Avenue at Etihad E Towers. A boutique rst of its kind in Abu Dhabi, destination that is the ďŹ rs Avenue at Etihad Towers is home to more than 35 high-end luxury brands that cater equally to the tastes of both ladies and gentlemen. Intimate and Etihad Towers offers the very inviting, Avenue at Etiha accessories, jewels and time pieces latest in fashions, accessor - an experience further eenhanced by a select choice food store. of dining options and a gourmet g
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Etihad Towers Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
Tel: Email: Web:
+971 2 613 3373 avenue@etihadtowers.ae www.etihadtowers.com www.avenueatetihadtowers.ae
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Avenue at Etihad Towers Currently home to more than 35 high-end, luxury brands, AVENUE AT ETIHAD TOWERS is the first stand-alone destination in Abu Dhabi to present such a prestigious retail offering in one upscale venue. Catering equally to the desires and tastes of both ladies and gentlemen, the elegant brands on offer bring the very latest fashions, accessories, jewels and timepieces to the Abu Dhabi market. AVENUE is firmly placing Abu Dhabi on the international shopping map, also offering a select choice of F&B outlets including Abu Dhabi’s first Fauchon Le Café. AVENUE will soon unveil a unique array of client services for a personalised shopping experience as well.
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A PART OF ETIHAD TOWERS
HIGH-END LUXURY BOUTIQUES
Set over two floors and covering an area of 13,814 square metres, Avenue at Etihad Towers is part of the world-class mixed-use Etihad Towers development, which is located in the prestigious beachside neighbourhood of Ras Al Akhdar in Abu Dhabi, close to and overlooking the city’s renowned Corniche. Etihad Towers, developed by Sheikh Suroor Projects Department, is a new benchmark for mixed-use developments in the UAE capital and a landmark of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Avenue at Etihad Towers is conveniently connected to the luxurious Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel and the premium Etihad Towers residential and office space. The five unique towers of Etihad Towers, the tallest of which realises a height of over 300 metres, cover a total area of over half a million square metres.
35 high-end luxury brands are in Avenue at Etihad Towers, including many ‘firsts’ for the Abu Dhabi luxury market, some ‘firsts’ for the region as well, and one boutique making its worldwide debut. A. Lange & Söhne, Bally, Boss Hugo Boss, Breguet, Burberry, Bulgari, Canali, Cartier, Chloé, De Grisogono, Ermenegildo Zegna, Fauchon Le Café, Givenchy, Giuseppe Zanotti, Hermès, Herve Leger, Jaeger-LeCoultre, J.M. Weston, Kiton, Lanvin, Manolo Blahnik, Montblanc, Officine Panerai, Piaget, Porsche Design, Rolex, Salvatore Ferragamo, Stefano Ricci, Stephane Rolland, Tom Ford, Van Cleef & Arpels, Versace, Vertu, Waitrose.
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DINING AT AVENUE AT ETIHAD TOWERS
PARKING
Whether for a refreshing drink, a cup of coffee, a light bite or meal, AVENUE offers shoppers a select choice of F&B outlets, with Abu Dhabi’s first Fauchon Le Café now open for business and one more outlet to soon be unveiled.
The Etihad Towers development was designed with convenience in mind and offers four levels of underground parking, valet parking and capacity for more than 3,000 cars. AVENUE offers a dedicated valet service to access the prestigious array of luxury brands across both podium levels: the valet parking on Podium One also allows quick and easy access to AVENUE’s delectable dining choices, while the valet parking on Podium Two directly connects to Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.
G OURMET FOOD STORE Gourmet food store Waitrose joined the prestigious brand portfolio at AVENUE, offering guests the convenience of a supermarket with the premium offering of a specialist shop.
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Capital Gate Tower
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Al Bahr Towers
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ICONIC BUILDINGS Abu Dhabi
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The Gate Towers
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C ĂŠ Chlo
Ferrari
Trussardi
D upon Dupon u t St Dupont
Rolls Royce
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Shopping Malls AL WAHDA MALL
AL RAHA MALL
Website Where
Website Where
www.alwahda-mall.com At the junction of 11th street (Hazza Bin Zayed the First) with 2nd Street (Airport Road), near the Central Bus Stop and Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel Telephone +971 2 443 7070 Opening hours Sunday - Thursday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Friday to Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM
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www.al-rahamall.com Next to Al Raha Beach Hotel on Al Raha Beach Road, Al Raha district, 4048 Channel Street, Abu Dhabi Dubai Highway Road Telephone +971 2 556 2229 Opening hours Saturday - Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Friday: 2 PM - 11 PM
MADINAT ZAYED SHOPPING CENTER AND GOLD CENTER Website Where
Telephone Opening hours
www.madinatzayed-mall.com Between Jawasat Road, Airport Road, Electra Road and Muroor Road, near Abu Dhabi Central Post OfďŹ ce +971 2 633 3311 Saturday - Friday: 9 AM - 11 PM
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ARMANI EXCHANGE A|X Armani Exchange is accessible Armani, inspired by street-chic culture, fashionable dance music and everything that signifies freedom and personal style. Armani Exchange is the youthful label created by Italian designer and entrepreneur Giorgio Armani. With Armani Exchange, Mr Armani interprets his unique style to create a casual, yet sophisticated collection for the young, urban set. It designs, manufactures, distributes and retails fashion and lifestyle products, including apparel, accessories, eyewear, watches, jewellery and music. www.armaniexchange.com
CARTIER Founded in 1847 by Louis Francois Cartier, the family-run Cartier fi rm has expanded to become an international jewellery house with a reputation second to none. For generations, the House of Cartier has displayed the gift of sophisticated expertise in creating pieces that express a unity of style no matter the differences in artistic expression attracting customers from around the world in search of distinction. The jeweller never ceases to delight the public with its dazzling collection that places contemporary high jewellery creations alongside fi ne watchmaking master pieces in perfect continuity, bearing witness to the vitality of its creations both past and present. www.cartier.com
TIFFANY & CO. Tiffany & Co. is America's premier purveyor of jewels and timepieces, as well as luxury table, personal and home accessories. It was founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and established on the belief that 'good design is good business'. All Tiffany & Co. designs are presented in the Tiffany Blue Box®, recognised around the world as an icon of distinction and a symbol of the ultimate gift to celebrate life's most joyous occasions. Today, the company's more than 100 boutiques in 17 countries continue the company's tradition of excellence. www.tiffany.com
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RIMOWA MOWA Today, Rimowa already ranks among the leading manufacturers of luggage in Europe. Dieter Morszeck, the head of Rimowa and a visionary, still has a lot in store for this successful company shaped by tradition. In line with his slogan, ‘Handwerk meets Hightech’ (‘Handcraft Meets High Tech) he practices a policy today, which has lead to huge successes and double figures in rates of growth altogether throughout many countries around the world. His luggage collection with its Made in Germany label has not only won over showrooms among its partners, such as Lufthansa and Porsche, but also the Luxury Goods segments in exactly those countries in which the competition operates wage-dumping practices in the manufacturing sector. www.rimowa.de
RODENSTOCK The Rodenstock brand stands for technologically demanding products of exceptional quality. For at Rodenstock we constantly ask ourselves: how can we make wearing spectacles even more pleasant, lighter, simpler and more comfortable? This attitude gives rise to innovative product solutions - which meet demands for the highest precision. www.rodenstock.com
VICTORIA'S SECRET Victoria’s Secret, the world’s greatest lingerie store is now open! The store features a wide assortment of the brand’s signature bras, panties, sleepwear, and Victoria’s Secret PINK, the spirited lifestyle brand dedicated to the independent and inspired collegiate girl. The full lines of popular fragrances such as Victoria’s Secret Bombshell, Dream Angels Glow and Victoria’s Secret Angel are all available along with VS Fantasies body care and PINK beauty products. This store is uniquely designed to embody the brand’s sophisticated and glamorous spirit. www.victoriassecret.com
e
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LOUIS VUITTON The skilled artistry that goes into creating each Louis Vuitton product guarantees impeccable quality. Louis Vuitton's gifted artisans dedicate their attention to crafting products (like handbags, shoes, wallets, watches, sunglasses, accessories) using the most exclusive materials and state of the art workmanship. www.louisvuitton.com
PORSCHE DESIGN
FENDI
Porsche Design features an exclusive range of exquisitely designed watches, travel and smoking accessories, leather products, eyewear and writing instruments.
In 1925, the house of Fendi is born with the establishment of the first handbag shop and fur workshop in Via del Plebiscito, Rome. The new Fendi business, led by the young couple Edoardo and Adele Fendi, immediately wins great acclaim for the quality of its products. For the Roman bourgeoisie, a trip to "Fendi at the Plebiscito� becomes a date with a certain prestige. As the business grows, the fur workshops expand and between the 1930s and '40s, the Fendi name, already well known in Rome, becomes famous outside of the capital city.
www.porsche-design.com
www.fendi.com
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DKNY Simply stated, DKNY is the energy and spirit of New York. International, eclectic, fun, fast and real. DKNY addresses the real-life needs of people everywhere, from work to weekend, jeans to evening. Both fashionable and friendly, DKNY consistently delivers its unique mix of style around the world. www.dkny.com
GUCCI In 1921 Florentine-born Guccio Gucci opened a store in his native city specialising in leather goods. The house enjoyed great success and by the '60s, Gucci had made a name for itself as the most cherished brand amongst the legendaries of the time. www.gucci.com
ROCCOBAROCCO Rocco Barocco, one of Italy's most beloved and successful fashion designers, offers a fine taste of IItalian talian beauty in fashion wear, high-end accessories, and perfumes for women, men, and children. An inspirational and highly creative designer, Rocco Barocco arocco spares nothing when designing clothing for the rich and famous. His clothing creations range from casual ready-to-wear to elite eveningwear. www.roccobarocco.it
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Mosques in Abu Dhabi Five times a day “Allahu Akbar” can be heard all over town. The Adhan is the call to prayer, reminding Muslims that it's time to give worldly activities a little break and come to the mosque for prayer. For male Muslims it is an obligation to perform their prayers together with their brothers in faith in the mosque. In order to fi nd a mosque in the direct vicinity of residences and workplaces, they are built all over town. The UAE boasts a total of almost 4,800 mosques. For Muslim women it is not obligatory to perform their prayers in a mosque, although they are free to do so. Even though from a religious point of view it is perfectly fi ne for men and woman to pray in separate areas of the same room, most of the larger mosques offer dedicated sections for women, allowing more privacy.
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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Typical architectural details of all mosques are the minarets. In the past the muadhin, who calls the faithful to prayer and then leads them in it, would climb up the minaret and perform his call to prayer from this elevated position in order to be heard over a long distance. Legend has it that in early days the muadhin even climbed a nearby palm tree, to allow his voice to reach farther. Abu Dhabi has now centralised the service. A muadhin performs the call to prayer at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and this is transmitted and broadcast via the speakers of all mosques within Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which can accommodate 41,000 worshippers, is said to be the third largest mosque in the world. It is a unique
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architectural work of art. The structure is completely covered in white marble, adorned by engravings and inlays of mother of pearl and semi-precious stones. The building features 82 domes of various sizes and its entire floor is covered by what is the world’s largest knotted carpet. The world’s largest chandelier – measuring 10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and weighing 15 tons – dominates with its sparkling Swarovski crystals the main prayer hall. Three of the country’s oldest traditional mosques, the Mohamed bin Jasem Al Muraikhi mosque, the Al Dawsari mosque and the Said Ali Al Muhannadi mosque, are located in Dalma Island, an important pearling site off the coast of the Western Region in Abu Dhabi.
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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In the UAE mosques are considered strictly as places of worship, and non-Muslims should refrain from entering. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of only three mosques in the UAE that can be visited by non-Muslims. It is open daily, except on Friday mornings and religious holidays, between 9 AM and 10 PM. During prayer times the main prayer hall is not accessible to visitors. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre offers complimentary guided tours from Sundays to Thursdays at 10 AM, 11 AM and 5 PM ; on Fridays at 5 PM and 7:30 PM and on Saturdays at 10 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM , 5 PM and 7:30 PM. Modest dress is required of visitors. Local attire can be borrowed at the mosque.
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Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
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CULTURAL PROJECTS
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Louvre Abu Dhabi Designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect Jean Nouvel, Louvre Abu Dhabi will be the fi rst universal museum in the Arab World, embodying the spirit of openness and dialogue among cultures. Linking Abu Dhabi with the name of the Louvre, Louvre Abu Dhabi will display works of historical, cultural and sociological significance, from the most ancient to the most contemporary. A museum of the world and for the world, Louvre Abu Dhabi will include pieces spanning millennia and artworks on display will originate from civilisations all over the world. Louvre Abu Dhabi’s construction progress is on track for completion by 2015. The museum’s iconic dome will result in an enchanting ‘ray of light’ effect once the museum opens. The geometric lace dome was inspired by the interlaced palm leaves traditionally used as roofi ng material, and its complex pattern is the result of the same geometric design repeated at various sizes and angles in ten different layers, five external and five internal. While it looks delicate and lacy, the dome is actually 7,000 tonnes in weight – almost the weight of the Eiffel Tower and the size of five football pitches. An additional nod to Emirati heritage can be found in the falaj-inspired water system running through the museum, inspired by ancient Arabian engineering. The ‘museum city’ of Louvre Abu Dhabi will display art, manuscripts and objects of historical, cultural and sociological significance through its own collection, which will be enriched by loans from French museums including Musée du Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Centre Pompidou. In addition to the artworks, Louvre Abu Dhabi will organise a full programme of temporary exhibitions, inviting cultural loan and exchange from institutions all over the world.
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Zayed National Museum The Zayed National Museum will honour the late leader of the UAE, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and will provide a new source of inspiration to the world. The museum will provide a fitting testament to the life and times of the nation’s founding father and his inspired vision and the legacy he left behind. Given the institutions central location and overarching importance, 12 of the world’s top architectural fi rms participated in a competition to create the most appropriate and awe-inspiring design for this modern Arabian icon. Foster + Partners, one of the UK’s leading architectural fi rms, were declared the winners with the museum designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect Lord Norman Foster. Among the outstanding features in their design were towers reminiscent of the wing tips of the falcon, one of the symbols of the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. Once the museum opens its doors in 2016, visitors can explore its rich offerings through various galleries, installations and exhibition pieces, whether in its beautifully landscaped garden or in the lower and upper galleries, located in each tower - the tallest of which rises 125 metres.
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Guggenheim Abu Dhabi The Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is one of three iconic museums located in the Saadiyat Cultural District. Designed by world-renowned and Pritzker Prize winning architect Frank Gehry, this premier cultural institution will be the world’s largest Guggenheim and the only one in the Middle East. It is being developed in collaboration with The Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation which, since its foundation in 1937, has promoted the understanding and appreciation of art, primarily of the modern and contemporary periods. Inspired by traditional Arabian dwellings, the Guggenheim features several distinctive domes that recall the region’s ancient wind-towers, providing ventilation and shade the museum’s exterior courtyards in a fi tting blend of Arabian tradition and modern, sustainable design. Once completed in 2017, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will contain a permanent collection in addition to organising exhibitions, generating scholarly publications and undertaking educational programmes that will examine the history of art produced around the world since circa 1965 from a variety of perspectives. These will distributed over 13,000 square metres of gallery space in the monumental piles of gallery boxes, while eleven cone-like structures provide a further 18,000 square metres of exhibition space.
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UAE Pavilion The UAE Pavilion, designed by Foster + Partners, was on display for six months at Expo 2010 Shanghai. Showcasing exhibitions that highlight the history of the UAE, its stunning design attracted almost two million visitors. Now located in its permanent home beside Manarat Al Saadiyat, the pavilion is a landmark exhibition and events venue, hosting some of the country’s most important cultural functions. The pavilion’s strikingly original design comprises two dune-shaped peaks; its highest peak reaches 20 metres high. During its display at the exposition, the building won prestigious awards from Illinois Society of Structural Engineers and the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations. It is also one of the fi rst buildings in Abu Dhabi to be awarded a Two Pearl Rating under the Estidama sustainable design programme. The project received praise for its sustainable design, which ensures a large reduction in external heat gain.
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Manarat Al Saadiyat Manarat Al Saadiyat means ‘the place of enlightenment.’ It is a 15,400 square metre arts and culture centre, designed to bring the vision of the island to life through The Saadiyat Story. The venue also features four gallery spaces. Located on Saadiyat, this artistic venue houses exhibitions with international collections from around the world, including three major galleries, a central events gallery, a sales centre, a 250-seat theatre and a restaurant. It also plays host to a number of annual art exhibitions such as Abu Dhabi Art and Emirati Expressions. Located within Manarat Al Saadiyat is Fanr restaurant, a contemporary dining venue offering a wide variety of regional and international cuisine with seating for 250 diners inside or al fresco in the courtyard, designed around a traditional Arabic court. Fanr has become a very popular spot and was recently voted ‘Best Casual Dining’ in Ahlan Magazine’s Best in Abu Dhabi Awards 2012. For more information, please visit www.fanrrestaurant.ae. The Saadiyat Story is an interactive experience centre that brings to life the historical and cultural vision behind Saadiyat as well as its future plans. The main galleries of Manarat Al Saadiyat constitute permanent spaces for a series of exhibitions and educational programs organised by TDIC. This is part of an ongoing cultural program dedicated to developing awareness and understanding of art and culture prior to the launch of the Saadiyat Cultural District. Central Events Gallery is a 660-square-metre multi-purpose space opening out onto a landscaped garden area for hosting Manarat Al Saadiyat’s special events calendar. For more information, visit www.saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae. Directions: from Abu Dhabi City: from the Mina (port) area take Sheikh Khalifa Bridge to Sheikh Khalifa Highway E12 and follow road signs to Manarat Al Saadiyat. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi (traveling on E11): take Saadiyat island/Yas island exit on to Sheikh Khalifa highway E12, and drive through to Saadiyat island, and then follow road signs to Manarat Al Saadiyat. For general enquiries and bookings please contact +971 2 657 5800, or manaratalsaadiyat@tdic.ae. For more information and group bookings (please allow 24 hours) call +971 2 643 5708, or contact manaratalsaadiyat@tdic.ae or visit www.saadiyat.ae. Opening Hours Manarat Al Saadiyat: 10 AM – 8 PM (free admissions), Fanr Restaurant: 10 AM – 10 PM (Sun to Wed), 10 AM – midnight (Thurs – Sat).
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Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, with its Gary Player-designed course, is one of the world’s most captivating golfi ng projects. Providing a ‘place to breathe’ away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club harnesses the stunning natural beauty of Saadiyat to create an unparalleled experience, made all the more rewarding with spectacular views of the Gulf’s glittering, crystal blue waters, fringed by pristine white sands. From the array of native grasses, to its sensitivity to the local turtles’ habitat, the course has been designed within strict eco-guidelines. As the social and recreational heart of Saadiyat Beach, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club provides world-class amenities, creating an 'unparalleled' golf experience, with the golf academy and practice facilities to breath-taking views of the immaculate white sandy beach. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club caters to golfers of all abilities, enabling a truly enjoyable golfi ng experience. It’s also a great venue for families, kids and various events. Operated by Troon Golf, the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club incorporates a distinguished practice range, as well as a Golf Academy and an iconic clubhouse. The club’s Golf Shop is one of the Middle East’s fi rst retail outlets to sell a complete range of eco-sensitive golfi ng apparel and equipment, from sustainable bamboo golf shirts to 100 per cent environmentally-friendly golf balls and fully biodegradable tees, to ensure guests are ‘green on the greens’. The Hawksbill Restaurant, named after the protected turtle species that use Saadiyat as a hatching spot, provides a truly unique dining experience and a refreshing alternative to the obligatory post-game venue for a quick bite and cool beverage. The Golf Institute by Troon Golf at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is a custom-designed, stateof-the-art learning centre where all facets of the game can be worked on with the highly skilled instructors.
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ABU DHABI G OLF CLUB
YAS LINKS ABU DHABI
SAADIYAT BEACH G OLF CLUB
This award-winning facility, managed by Troon Golf, is where it all began.
"A course that will both enhance your game and your senses; be part of the tradition."
Featuring 27 holes, including the 18 hole National Course - home to the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, a European PGA Tour event – Abu Dhabi Golf Club is presided over by arguably the Middle East’s most iconic clubhouse: a vast winged falcon perched atop a golf ball.
Set among rolling hills and delicate mangrove plantations, Yas Links Abu Dhabi – designed by Kyle Phillips, the world-renowned course architect – is the Middle East’s only true links course.
This is the region’s first ocean course; the Gary Playerdesigned masterpiece respectfully harnesses the natural beauty of Saadiyat Island’s magnificent, white sand beaches for a truly unique playing experience.
On the playing side, the par 72 National Course covers 7,600 yards of lush fairways, undulating greens and more than 90 challenging bunkers, while the more accessible par 36 Garden Course totals 3,341 yards. The fully floodlit, nine-hole Garden Course is also the perfect place for a spot of night golf on a championship-standard facility. The two distinct playing experiences have seen the club ranked among the World’s Top 100 courses by Golf World magazine. For those eyeing the golf day of a lifetime, watch out for the club’s "Royal Experience" – a luxury package run in association with Emirates Palace – one of the world’s most opulent hotels - that sees guests enjoy Maybach or helicopter transfers to the club, Rolls Royce golf carts, an exclusive lounge and fi ne dining.
Nestled on the western shores of Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s landmark entertainment destination, every daunting, dynamic Yas Links hole has sparkling coastline views of the Arabian Gulf – indeed eight run right up along the coastline. The course is a favourite among UAE-based players. Voted among the "Top 10 New International Golf Courses" by America’s influential Golf Magazine, and voted "The 24th best course in the world outside the U.S." by Golf Digest Magazine, the par 72 championship course stretches to a demanding 7,450 yards, while a nine-hole par three academy course, floodlit practise facilities and luxurious clubhouse further complement the offering.
Designed with amateurs and professionals in mind, carefully positioned tee boxes ensure the total yardage starts at 5,290, although the course can be extended to a whopping 7,804 yards for pros. The clubhouse is known as a dining treat and has a great terrace for prize-giving ceremonies or outdoor socializing. Watch out for magnificent permanent clubhouse, designed by Pritzker Prizewinner Frank Gehry, which was due to open at the end of 2012.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club is a 10-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 20-minute drive from most downtown hotels. www.adgolfclub.com
www.yaslinks.com
www.sbgolfclub.ae
Course facts No. of holes: Par: Yardage: Designer: Landscape:
Course facts No. of holes: Par: Yardage: Designer: Landscape:
Course facts No. of holes: Par: Yardage: Designer: Landscape:
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18-hole 72 7,414 Kyle Phillips Links
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With the meandering, eco-conscious course providing stunning sea views, there’s also the chance to spot dolphins and turtles at play in the glistening Arabian Gulf. Three salt water lakes and restored beach and sand dunes provide majestic oncourse hazards, while more than 60 bunkers will force even the bravest to pause for thought on this challenging par 72.
Served by seven nearby hotels, including the iconic, five-star Yas Viceroy Hotel – the only hotel in the world straddling a Formula 1 track – Yas Links is distinguished by private boat mooring and a fi ne dining restaurant, with stunning views of Abu Dhabi’s 21 st century skyline thrown in for free, as well as a private lawn for events and croquet.
27-hole 72 National, 36 Garden 7,600 National, 3,341 Garden Peter Harradine Arabian Oasis
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Also, if you want a meeting in a golf environment, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club – just a 20 minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and only 15 minutes from downtown – has a wide range of banquet and conference facilities.
18-hole 72 7,806 Gary Player Beachfront Resort
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Abu Dhabi City Golf Club The w course was originally a sand course that has been transformed from barren desert to luscious grass fairways. It is an oasis of colour, with scenic lakes, fountains and indigenous wild birds inhabiting this beautifully manicured course. Set within the circumference of both stunning grass and sand horse-racing tracks, the golf course is an intriguing layout of nine holes that offers nightly ood lighting and different tee positions, creating an 18 hole, par 70, 6,395yard gem. Access to the golf course is gained via a tunnel, an engineering masterpiece that
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runs beneath the racetrack. Water challenges can be found on four of the nine holes, with testing dog-legs left and right and an enormous par ďŹ ve, 630-yard eighth hole, where skilfully designed water hazards cross the fairway and immediately come into play. Surprisingly for a nine-hole course, there are only two par threes, namely the fourth and seventh holes. There are four tee positions on each hole, which presents an interesting challenge for the most accomplished golfer. The golf academy, managed by PGA professionals, includes a driving range, chipping
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TENNIS If tennis is your choice of game, then the Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club should be the club of your choice. The tennis courts, located adjacent to the golf club, are available daily for members, guests and tennis clubs to use and enjoy. With three international-standard courts that are well lit for evening play, tennis enthusiasts can enjoy both daytime and evening games. The courts can be reserved in advance through the golf club reception. A certified professional instructor, who offers lessons to all levels of players, from the beginner
and putting area, golf club repair facility and a social coffee shop and bar. The academy boasts a personalised computer aided, state-of-the-art teaching studio. Individually tailor-made tuition packages are available to suit every level of golfer, which includes the Junior Golf Academy for young golfers ages eight to 14. The clubhouse offers excellent service in the luxurious Spike Bar, with a large television screen and full range of international beverages. The elegant fi ne-dining restaurant offers an interesting and varied menu of professional, classically prepared international cuisine. The panoramic views from the restaurant overlook the beautiful floodlit golf course and racetrack and are quite enchanting. The patio outside provides the perfect setting for themed evenings and weekend barbecues. It also provides exciting dining during the Arabian and thoroughbred horse-racing events; imagine an
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just taking up the game to the advanced competitor, as well as group instruction for both children and adults, manages the club’s tennis programme. During the winter recreational season, many fun activities are organised, including tournaments and specialty classes. Additionally, several tennis clubs in Abu Dhabi take advantage of the excellent facilities and hold their matches here. So whether you enjoy tennis or your children do, this is a great place to come and take part in this popular activity or just to watch, enjoy the game and socialise with friends.
enchanting winter evening in the Arabian outdoors and the thrill of excitement as you watch your favourite champion racing for the ultimate victory over the line! Upstairs, there is a fully equipped banquet and boardroom, with elevated views overlooking the course. It is an ideal venue for private entertaining and corporate hospitality. The pro shop, situated within the clubhouse, is one of the best equipped in all of the Emirates. It has an extensive range of golf equipment to suit all golfers' requirements, including clubs, bags, shoes and beautiful designer golf wear. Social sports for members and guests include a large Jacuzzi and swimming pool, three floodlit tennis courts and a professional equestrian riding school with international indoor and outdoor show jumping arenas. The Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club provides and completes this Arabian sporting experience.
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SIGHTSEEING
Abu Dhabi’s Islands
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More than 200 islands are found in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. The early settlement of the capital itself started on an island, formerly known as “Milh”, meaning salt in Arabic and probably related to the salty waters of the surrounding Arabian Gulf. Only after a freshwater well was discovered a good 300 years ago did the island become known as Abu Dhabi. With its further development, the city of Abu Dhabi spread over some of the surrounding islands: on Saadiyat Island a new cultural district is under development, the future home of Guggenheim, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed National Museum, Performing Arts Centre and the Maritime Museum. Yas Island has become Abu Dhabi’s prime location for motorsports. Reem Island became a prestigious residential district, Lulu and Futaisi Islands are popular getaways just a few minutes boat ride away from Abu Dhabi. Sir Bani Yas Island is the destination for a stylish and luxury retreat. The Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is one of the most luxurious resorts, offering five-star comfort and untouched nature in the desert wildlife sanctuary. A fi nalist in the 2011 poll for global natural wonders of the world is Bu Tinah Island, a marine biosphere reserve and recognised UNESCO site since 2001. The island lies within large coral formations and its surrounding waters are home to one of world largest populations of dugong, a large marine mammal that is globally threatened. Delma Island is one of the oldest permanent settlements of the UAE, and used to be a well-known pearling centre in the Arabian Gulf. The island has freshwater resources and its soil is very fertile, providing perfect conditions for the many farms and date plantations. Delma Island can be visited by ferry from Jebel Dhanna.
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Sir Bani Yas Island
Sir Bani Yas Island’s 7th Century Monastery Archaeological Site
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The Christian Monastery on Sir Bani Yas was first discovered in 1992 during an archaeological survey of the island, although it was not until excavations were carried out between 1993-1996 that the function and purpose of the site was fully understood. The monastery was probably built at the end of the 6th century A.D. and was abandoned around 750 A.D. The site is located on the eastern side of Sir Bani Yas Island, with its main gate facing a sheltered creek on the shoreline a few hundred metres to the east. The central complex of the site, enclosed within a wall, consists of monks' cells, kitchens, animal pens and storerooms around a courtyard with the church in the middle.
The church was richly decorated with elaborate plasterwork stucco, with many crosses, palm trees, and grape designs. Within a few hundred metres, particularly to the north and northwest, are several other smaller buildings, perhaps the homes for senior monks, as well as a large water cistern and channel. The occupants of the monastic settlement were from the Church of the East, also known as the East Syrian Church. They were intimately involved in the maritime trade from the northern Gulf to India, as well as in the Gulf pearling industry. So far, the Sir Bani Yas Island monastery is the only early Christian site known in the UAE or anywhere else in southeastern Arabia.
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Top Timepieces IWC
Montblanc
Perrelet
Vacheron Constantin
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Franck Muller
Vacheron Constantin
Bovet
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SHOPPING
Top Women’s Accessories
Victorinox
Tiffany and Co.
Gucci
Chanel
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Boss
Guerlain
Michael Kors
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The Arabian Gulf Year-round sunshine, crystal clear azure water, beaches made of golden shimmering fi ne sand and its location on an island – that’s what makes Abu Dhabi the perfect place for admirers of sea, sun and sand. The combination of the capital’s vibrant city lifestyle with the laid-back beach atmosphere makes Abu Dhabi very special. Public beaches are favourite places for residents and visitors alike to spend some quality free time. Abu Dhabi’s Cornice beach has been redeveloped several times over the last few years and is now a beautiful retreat in the heart of the city. Just ten minutes away from the Corniche, on the western coast, is the al Bateen Beach, stretching 800 metres along the coastline. Both public beaches have family areas, picnic places and children's
playgrounds. For the convenience of beach goers, toilets, shower blocks and changing facilities are available. Beaches in front of hotels are usually private; however some hotels will welcome outsiders, for a reasonable fee, at their beach- and pool facilities. Ships have their own magic – white sails in the wind speak about the endless freedom on the ocean and adventures in exotic places. On a more practical note, they connect people and enable them to trade. Mina Zayed and Port Rasheed are the main commercial ports of Abu Dhabi. There is a very picturesque small fi shing harbour next to the fi sh market, where the traditional fi shing boats anchor and fi sherman can be seen fi xing their nets and fi shing traps.
Corniche Beach
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The Marina Mall Leisure cruises and island-hopping tours are widely available. Sea cruise tours start from the small marina next to the ďŹ sh market, Lulu cruises operate from the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club on the breakwater, close by the Marina Mall. Noukahda, an eco-tour operator, organises kayaking tours across the magniďŹ cent mangroves around Abu Dhabi, starting from the Eastern Mangrove Resort.
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ZARA HOME Zara Home is rapidly becoming a key name in innovative interior design solutions since it offers a wide range of distinctive creative concepts providing high quality contemporary home furnishings at competitive prices. www.zarahome.com
L'OCCITANE At L'Occitane we always encourage our people to follow their dreams and many of our employees volunteer to work on life-changing projects in communities far and wide. For the past two years our staff have been travelling to West Africa to teach the L'Occitane way of making soap to women in the Burkina Faso cooperative, where our pure shea butter is made. In New York many of our employees have given time to help visually impaired children. Back in Europe we've been working with our producers and distillers in Corsica to continue with our cultivation of the exquisite Immortelle flower. Thank you to all our extraordinary producers, men and women who have continued to teach us so much since the earliest days at L'Occitane. www.loccitane.com
TOD’S Those of you who know us, have come to appreciate Tod's not only for our steadfast quality, but because Tod's always stands out from the crowd. It's never been a brand that has been trendy, in or out of fashion, Tod's are sublime because they transcend cliches and hemlines. The collections always offer something beautiful and new without ever betraying the true spirit of the brand. As the saying goes: simple yet elegant. www.tods.com
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CAROLINA HERRERA Carolina Herrera, revered as one of the most elegant women in the world, in 1981 launched her premier women’s collection in New York City, thus creating Carolina Herrera, Ltd. Carolina Herrera’s international expansion continued in 2001 with the launch of her new lifestyle label, CH Carolina Herrera. This lifestyle collection consists of: women’s, men’s, children's, accessories and specialty items. Once again Carolina Herrera had the opportunity to collaborate with her daughter, Carolina, on this venture. The intention is to create a fresh line, which reflects a modern, effortless chic lifestyle. www.carolinaherrera.com
GIORGIO ARMANI
MAMAS & PAPAS APAS Mamas & Papas is an international nternational designer nursery brand offering a comprehensive range oof nursery products ranging ng from ready-to-wear items for mothers and babies, award-winning award-winnin travel and transportation Papas on systems, furniture, toys and gifts, and much more. Mamas & Pap offers a unique blend of style, comfort and safety effortlessly becoming a favourite amongst among discerning parents and stylish mums. www.mamasandpapas.com
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Giorgio Armani, the name behind timeless fashion and evolving creativity, extended its presence into the Middle East by opening its first store in 1994. The stores carry the full Giorgio Armani ready-to-wear collection for men and women. www.armani.com
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Abu Dhabi Corniche
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CHLOÉ
TOM FORD
Chloé is founded in 1952 by Gaby Aghion, an Egyptianborn Parisienne with a dark beauty and a bohemian spirit. Rejecting the stiff formality of the 50’s fashion, she creates soft, body conscious clothes from fine fabrics and called them “luxury prêt-à-porter”. Unique for their time, they are beautifully made clothes available off the rack. Clare Waight Keller is Chloé's Creative Director. More than fifty years after Gaby Aghion imagined it, Chloé’s vision of romantic, ultra feminine fashion lives on.
In 1998, BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP acquired the esteemed Hervé Léger fashion house. The Azrias relaunched the label in early 2007 with their own designs which were quickly embraced by celebrities like Kate Winslet, Victoria Beckham, Alicia Keys and Catherine Zeta-Jones. For Fall 2008, Max and Lubov presented Hervé Léger by Max Azria, Max Azria and BCBGMAXAZRIA Runway on the runway, marking the fi rst time that an American designer has ever produced three distinct fashion shows during one New York Fashion Week. Today, BCBGMAXAZRIAGROUP has more than 570 BCBGMAXAZRIA retail boutiques worldwide, each serving as a consummate showcase for women’s ready-to-wear and accessory collections.
In 1990, Tom Ford moved to Milan to join Gucci as the company’s Womenswear Designer. In 1992, he became Design Director and in 1994 he was appointed Creative Director of Gucci. He was responsible for the design of all product lines, from clothing to perfumes, and for the Group’s corporate image, advertising campaigns and store design. In January 2000, following the acquisition of Yves Saint Laurent and YSL Beaute by the Gucci Group, Tom Ford assumed the position of Creative Director of Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche and YSL Beaute in addition to his then existing duties at Gucci. Ford worked with all creative teams at YSL to defi ne the overall image and positioning of the YSL brand including all product categories and communication activities. Ford also served as Creative Director of Gucci cci Group. In July 2002 he was made Vice Chairman of the Management Board of Gucci Group. In April 2004, Ford resigned from his post at Gucci Group following a buyout by Pinault Printemps Redoute. e. During Ford’s 10 years ass Creative Director at Guccii and Gucci Group, sales increased from 230 million dollars in 1994 to almost 3 billion dollars in 2003, making Gucci one of the largest and most profitable luxury brands in the world. In April 2005, Fordd announced the creation of the TOM FORD brand. In April 2007, his fi rst directly ctly owned fl agship store opened ened in New York at 845 Madison dison Avenue and coincided with the debut of the TOM FORD ORD menswear and accessory ssory collection. In September mber 2010, during an intimate imate presentation at his Madison adison Avenue fl agship, Ford presented esented his much anticipated womenswear nswear collection on some of his is style icons including Lauren Hutton and Beyonce Knowles. Presently, resently, there are 49 freestandingg TOM FORD stores and shop-in-shops -shops in locations such as Milan, Tokyo, okyo, Las Vegas, Dubai, Zurich, New w Delhi, Shanghai and Russia.
www.herveleger.com
www.tomford.com
www.chloe.com
HERVE LEGER
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VAN C CLEEF & ARPELS LS In 1895, Es Estelle Arpels, the daughter er of Salomon Arpels, a dealer in precious stones, marriedd Alfred Van Cleef, the stone-cutter. The couple shared son of a sto hared a pioneering spirit passion for precious stones. Their love is credited as and a passi the founding of Van making possible po an Cleef & Arpels. Van Cleef & Arpels opened its first boutique shop in Paris’ Place Vendôme at 22 place Vendome, across the street from the sumptuous Hotel Ritz. Place Vendôme and European aristocrats attracted Russian R istocrats and American businessmen; it was a symbol of Parisian luxury and the businessme benchmark for international elegance.Van nce.Van Cleef & Arpels quickly, opening boutiques inn holiday resorts such as grew quick Deauville, Le Touquet, Nice, and Monte-Carlo. In 1925, Cleef & Arpels bracelet with a Van Clee th red and white roses fashioned ffrom rubies and diamonds ds won the grand prize Decorative Arts Exposition inn Paris. at the Deco Van Cleef & Arpels became the first French jewelers to open boutiques in i Japan and China. Thee firm had always been managed bby a descendant of the Arpels rpels family until it was acquired by b the Compagnie Financière ncière Richemont S.A. The company’s prestige stems in 1999. Th ems from a long list of prominent commissions issued by royal and imperial courts, financiers, aand industrial magnates, which have enabled Van Arpels to be active today not only in Europe and the Cleef & Ar States but also in Asia and the Middle East. United Stat www.vancleefarpels.com www.van
PORSCHE DESIGN
OFFICINE PANERAI Founded in Florence in 1860 as a watchmaker’s shop, workshop and school, Officine Panerai was for many years the official supplier of precision instruments for the Italian Navy, mostly for the underwater special corps. The projects developed by the company at the time - including the Luminor and Radiomir watch - were covered by military secret until 1997, when the brand was purchased by the Richemont Group and launched on the international market. Officine Panerai is today the only Italian fine watch making company, developing and producing its own calibres and watches - a blend of Italian history and design with Swiss craftsmanship - in its own manufacture in Neuchatel, Switzerland. Panerai watches are distributed worldwide through an exclusive network and in the Panerai boutiques in Florence, Milan, Portofino, Geneva, Madrid, Moscow, Paris, Los Angeles, New York, Boca Raton, Buenos Aires, Beijing, Hong Kong, Macau, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo, Beirut, Doha, Dubai, Riyadh.
Porsche Design is a luxury brand with a particular focus on functional, timeless and purist design. All products of the brand are designed in the Porsche Design Studio in Zell am See, Austria, and are characterized by a pure and clean design aesthetic. An unmistakable signature look. Quintessentially, iconic style. The brand Porsche Design was founded by Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche in 1972. As the designer of the iconic sports car, the Porsche 911, he enjoyed a reputation as a functionalist. After leaving the Porsche car company as its head of design in 1972, he founded his own luxury brand: Porsche Design. Today, the Porsche Design Studio is considered one of the most renowned design studios in Europe and has received more than 170 national and international awards for its unique and purist design philosophy. The unmistakable iconic style is reflected in all products that are being designed by Porsche Design. The company’s exclusive products are sold worldwide in fl agship stores, franchise stores, shop-in-shops, highend department stores, upscale specialist retailers as well as the official online shop. www.porsche-design.com
www.panerai.com
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Qasr Al Hosn, The White Fort
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The island of Abu Dhabi was a small settlement until the 1960s without many permanent structures. In the centre of town, Qasr Al Hosn, the White Fort, was the only solid building on the island. Extensive work is under progress in order to preserve the fort. Off the island stands the 200-year-old Maqta Fort, built to protect and control access to the main island via the Maqta ford. When the city was re-shaped following Sheikh Zayed's master plan, the debris from the demolished old buildings was used to build the breakwater peninsula as a protection of the coastline. In order to preserve and keep local traditions alive, the Emirates Heritage Village was set up. Replicas of traditional houses, an oasis setup and a desert area featuring traditional hair-houses and Bedouin allow a journey back in time.
The island of Abu Dhabi was a small settlement until the 1960s without many permanent structures. In the centre of town, Qasr Al Hosn, the White Fort, was the only solid building on the island. Extensive work is under progress in order to preserve the fort. Off the island stands the 200-yearold Maqta Fort, built to protect and control access to the main island via the Maqta ford. When the city was re-shaped following Sheikh Zayed's master plan, the debris from the demolished old buildings was used to build the breakwater peninsula as a protection of the coastline. In order to preserve and keep local traditions alive, the Emirates Heritage Village was set up. Replicas of traditional houses, an oasis setup and a desert area featuring traditional hair-houses and Bedouin allow a journey back in time.
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Zayed Center
In the Al Bateen area, a former residence of the ruling family has been transformed into a museum, the Zayed Centre. A very personal collection of photos, private possessions and gifts are displayed in the main exhibition. For a city that until the beginning of the 1970s did not even have a proper road, cars are something special a collection of Zayed's private cars and some office vehicles complete the exhibition. The Heritage monuments along Etihad Square are symbols of Arabic tradition and hospitality. One might wonder how the giant canon – one of the most common themes of Ramadan greeting cards – fits into hospitality: honoured visitors are traditionally greeted with a gun salute, but on a more local note the monument refers to the canon fi red every evening during the fasting month of Ramadan to indicate it is time to break the fast. Other statues depict an incense burner, a rosewater sprinkler, a food cover and last, but not least, a dhallah, the Arabic coffee pot.
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Heritage Monuments
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Central Market
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Breakwater Island
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Start your Breakwater tour with a drive to the outer edge of the peninsula. A symbol of national significance is the fl agpole. Marking the 30th anniversary of the United Arab Emirates, the 123 metre tall fl agpole was build in 2001, making it into the Guinness World Records as the tallest unsupported fl agpole of the world at the time. From the square beneath the fl agpole one has the most stunning views of the modern skyscraper skyline of the city. To the left, just a few metres across the water, is Lulu Island, a man-made island that became a popular beach retreat. The round-shaped building is a theatre, used for concerts and art events. The Heritage Village is the place to discover Abu Dhabi's rich history. It might be hard to believe that the city of Abu Dhabi was build up only over the last 40 years. In the small Museum of the Village are pictures from the 1960s on display: a fort and a few huts – that was Abu Dhabi. In the stalls of the traditional handicraft market visitors can watch craftsmen showing off their skills. In the nearby souvenir shops traditional pottery, leather-products and handmade daggers are available. The oasis replica is irrigated by a falaj, a water-channel system that has been used in the region for more than 2,000 years. The solid houses and even the barasti beach house, made from palm leaves, feature traditional barjeels, the socalled windcatcher towers. Such windcatchers are the most simple and effective form of cooling systems. Cold air is channelled via the open chambers at the upper part of the tower to the room beneath, making it possible to achieve a cooling effect of up to ten degrees Celsius. In the restaurant right across the entrance Lebanese and traditional Emirati food is served, and for a little treasure hunt one might stop by at the little souk on the right hand side. The Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, on the right hand side when driving off the island, organises a wider range of water sport activities and is the starting point for boat rides and leisure trips, like the popular lunch- and dinner cruises on traditional dhows, for instance, arranged by Le Royal Meriedien Hotel Abu Dhabi. For a little retail therapy the Marina Mall, just behind the yacht club, is one of the most popular places in town. Stroll round the shops, enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the countless coffee shops or enjoy a meal, perhaps in the Tiara restaurant in the top-floor, offering a splendid 360-degree view.
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Traditional Dagger
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Heritage Village
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Š Jehad Alzaabia
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From Al Bateen to Heritage Village Coming from the direction of the Emirates Palace along Bainuna Street, turn beside the high-rise buildings around the National Bank on the right-hand side and drive along the small road, until on the left you come to the entrance to Marina al Bateen. The Bateen area was traditionally the home of dhow yards and small marina workshops. From the Marina al Bateen you can start a little exploratory walk by foot and will still spot some traditional wooden vessels being built and repaired in the surrounding workshops. Dhows are the traditional sailing boats, and have been used in the region for centuries. Made entirely from wood, they typically have a long thin hull that gets wider towards the front for the cargo dhows. This shape gives the boats a very stable trim that suits the sea conditions of the Arabian Gulf with its rather long waves. Nowadays, wooden dhows are less used for commercial reasons than as leisure boats and for popular sailing races.
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Coming back from the marina, only a few metres further on the right-hand side, is the entry gate to the Zayed Centre. This former property of the ruling family is now open to the public and houses an Emirati heritage village and a museum dedicated to the father of the nation, the founder and first President of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The unique exhibition gives a very personal insight into the life of the late ruler. Pictures of the statesman meeting with international dignities are displayed, along with very personal images of Zayed during his pilgrimages to the holy places of Islam in Saudi Arabia, and also of the private Zayed, enjoying some time with friends and family. On display is a large selection of personal effects and gifts Zayed received during his period of rule – for instance his very special collection of the finest traditional oud oils, which are regarded by Arabs as the most precious of fragrances. Other sections of the exhibition are dedicated to the UAE and its history and car lovers will in particular enjoy the private and official historical vehicles on display. The exhibition is open Sundays to Thursdays, and entry is free-of-charge.
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Guggenheim Museum on Saadiyat Island
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Saadiyat and Yas Island
Saadiyat translates from Arabic as "happiness" and on Saadiyat Island the name is apt: on the 27 square kilometre island, just 500 metres off the coastline of the city of Abu Dhabi, some of the most exciting new developments will be made happy reality. Part of Abu Dhabi's Vision 2013 is to position the UAE capital as a major cultural hub for the region. And the heart of cultural Abu Dhabi will be the Cultural District, currently under development on the island. To boost the excitement and allow a sneak preview, Manarat Saadiyat, literally translated as the "place of enlightenment", an exhibition and information centre, has been set up. Coming from Abu Dhabi city along the main island highway, follow the signs for Manarat Saadiyat and after 15-minute drive from the edge of the Corniche you will reach your destination. The permanent exhibition gives a detailed insight into the upcoming museum district,
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featuring in particular the Louvre, the Guggenheim Museum, the Zayed National Museum, the Centre for Performing Arts, and the Maritime Museum, the main attractions that are already under development. Models and architectural studies of the museums are displayed and since the curators are already busy completing their various collections, highlights from the acquisition lists are regularly unveiled; the adjoining exhibition hall host regular themed art exhibitions. Manarat Saadiyat is daily open from 10 AM to 8 PM. Entry is free-of-charge. The UAE Pavilion, which represented the country at the Expo 2010 Shanghai, has found its new permanent home as a new exhibition and events venue next to Manarat Saadiyat.
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Take the main island highway and head in the direction of Dubai towards Yas Island. It’s a spectacular panoramic ride as the highway connecting both islands, built partially on reclaimed soil, crosses a large green area. Endless mangroves dominate the view, interrupted by small sandy islands dotted around and narrow seawater channels. A 20-minute drive will get you onto Yas Island, named after Abu Dhabi's tribal ancestors. The Yas Marina circuit is worth a visit even if there is no racing. Guided tours behind the scenes are available from Tuesday to Saturday at 10 AM and 2 PM , in Ramadan only at 2 PM. Visitors get the chance to walk around the paddock area, see the pit garages and even check out the high-tech areas of race control in the Shams tower. The hotels at Yas Place are a good place for a quick coffee break, for example on the terrace of the Yas Viceroy hotel, which overlooks the racetrack. Next to the circuit you find Ferrari World; indeed, its 200,000 square metre red roof and 3,000 square metre Ferrari logo can’t be missed! Twenty thrilling rides promise incomparable adrenaline-filled fun and Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world, offers the ultimate speed kick, accelerating to 240 km/ hour and pulling 4.8 in g-force. Next door to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and at the centre of Yas Island’s entertainment complex, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is the largest waterpark in the capital. Spreading over 15 hectares, the waterpark features a thrilling range of 43 rides, slides and attractions. Four rides are one-of-a-kind that have never been seen in a waterpark before.
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Saadiyat Island
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Find Your Drive at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
From the moment you step into Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s spectacular space frame structure, you know you are in for a larger-than-life experience that brings together everything its namesake marque stands for – speed, passion, innovation, adrenaline and a chance to have the ride of your life. The world’s only Ferrari-branded theme park lies at the heart of Yas Island – its unique groundhugging form echoing that of a huge red sand dune emblazoned with the iconic “Prancing Horse”. Inside is a world of high-octane energy – from the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, which fl ies from 0-100 km in two heart-stopping seconds, to the stateof-the-art Scuderia Challenge simulators that let you feel the excitement of sitting in the driver’s seat and racing down the track. The park’s collection of more than 20 rides and attractions are all inspired by original Ferrari technology and offer a unique chance to look beyond the iconic brand to its passionate soul, rich technological heritage and amazing racing triumphs. From taking a trip back in time with Enzo Ferrari through the silver screen with Coppa di Sicilia – a short period fi lm that captures the glamour and grit of road racing in 1920s Italy, screened daily at the Park’s very own Cinema Maranello, to Galleria Ferrari – a collection of vintage and modern
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Ferraris that will make any motorhead drool, there’s plenty of ways to live the Ferrari experience. Thrill-seekers can jump aboard some of the Park’s high adrenaline rides such as G-Force, which shoots visitors up to the top of Ferrari World’s central crystal funnel for a bird’s-eye view of Yas Island, followed by an adrenalinepumping free fall. There’s plenty of racing action all through the park at attractions such as Driving with the Champion – a multisensory simulator adventure that lets you ride shotgun with Ferrari champion Fernando Alonso; Speed of Magic – a race through a fantastic 3-D adventure on the heels of the mischievous cartoon character Nello; and Fiorano GT Challenge – the Middle East’s only duelling roller coaster. Kids can take their first ride in a Ferrari F430 GT Spider – albeit a scaled down version – and learn to make the perfect hairpin turn at the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Driving School, before heading out onto the Junior Grand Prix circuit and racing along in stunning scaled down F1™ Scuderia Ferrari single seaters.
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There are also plenty of reminders of Ferrari’s scenic homeland in Italy – from Bell’ Italia, which lets you take a gentle drive through a miniature Italian landscape dotted with famous landmarks – in a beautiful scaled down vintage Ferrari California of course – to Viaggio in Italia, which lets you fly over the towns and villages lining the route of the famous Mille Miglia race, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers a slice of Italy right in the heart of Arabia. The Italian theme also echoes through the park’s restaurants such as Mamma Rossella – modelled on Ristorante Montana, a much-loved family trattoria in Maranello, or Ristorante Cavallino, based on an elegant little restaurant where Enzo Ferrari used to dine, just around the corner from the Ferrari factory. In a tribute to the love of speed and passion for style that has fuelled the dream of Ferrari for more than 80 years, the park also plays host to the original cirquestyle extravaganza RED. The 25-minute theatrical spectacular brings together an international cast in a
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spellbinding performance featuring shadow play, pas de deux performances, scarf dances, choreographed trampoline displays, juggling acts, German wheel sets, stunt skating, an elegant adaptation of a racing pit stop and other racing antics – all woven together in a fun, romantic story line. Designed to be an interactive and immersive attraction for all ages, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an experience that will ignite Ferrari's winning spirit in every visitor, an iconic attraction not to be missed when in the United Arab Emirates.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Yas Island - Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates P.O.Box: 128717 Tel: +971 2 496 8001
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Ermenegildo Zegna
e
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Louis Vuitton
Ermenegildo Zegna
Gucci
Tod's
Shopping Malls THE SOUK – AT QARYAT AL BERI Website Where
www.soukqaryatalberi.com between the Maqta and Musaffah bridges, adjacent to the Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 558 1670 Opening hours Every day: 9 AM - 9 PM
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WORLD TRADE CENTER CENTRAL MARKET – SOUK Website www.wtcad.ae Telephone +971 2 810 7810 Opening hours Sunday to Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Friday: 3 PM -11 PM , Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM
AVENUE AT ETIHAD TOWERS Website Where
www.avenueatetihadtowers.ae Etihad Towers, Corniche West Street Telephone +971 2 613 3373 Opening hours Monday to Thursday: 10 AM - 10 PM, Friday: 3 PM - 11 PM, Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM - 10 PM
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SIGHTSEEING
Fish Market
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BARGAIN HUNT AND ADVENTURE SHOPPING
The coastal areas were the places where traders traditionally settled down and so it comes not as surprise that most of the traditional marketplaces of Abu Dhabi are located close to the coast and the port, in an area called Meena, which means “harbour” in Arabic. The market area still captures the flavour of the past and allows a unique insight into traditional Arabia. A place not to be missed is Abu Dhabi’s vibrant fi sh market, offering all the fresh delicacies the waters of the Gulf can provide. Fishermen, who anchor their boats just a few steps away from the market, supply the city with their rich catches. A great service for buyers is offered in a special section of the market: in the cleaning section the fi sh are cleaned and portioned as per individual request for a small fee - ready to go at home straight into the pot or pan. The fruit and vegetable market is the place to get the largest selection and the best bargains for regionally grown products. Surprisingly, the UAE is indeed an agricultural country, producing beside the traditional dates a large variety of fresh food, like tomatoes, cucumbers and even seasonal strawberries. And if you would like to know the typical local way of shopping, than this would be the right place to discover it: potential buyers are often seen just cruising in their cars along the wide alleys of the market, before eventually stopping near a stall with appealing products. This is the signal for the salesperson from the shop – and indeed all the neighbouring shops – to rush to the car and promote their products and offer some samples to taste. After the unavoidable discussion about prices, a deal is fi xed, money is exchanged via the car window, the product is loaded in the trunk and the buyer drivers off with the shopping without even having got out of the car. For a real insight into local culture and lifestyle, the furniture and carpet market is the place to stroll around. However, one will not spot much in the way of Western-style wooden furniture here, but rather a lot of colourful covered floor cushions and mattresses, since this is the usual set-up in the local living rooms and so-called majilis, the places where visitors are traditionally hosted.
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Fruit and vegatable market
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Natural Heritage
Beside its beautiful beaches and rich marine life, Abu Dhabi has a large variety of natural treasures to offer, and is home to a wide variety of species in the air, on land and under the water. Camels and palm trees come fi rst to mind when thinking of Arabia, and indeed both have been for centuries “partners in survival” for the desert inhabitants and are therefore treated with much respect and have become part of the local heritage.
CAMELS - SHIPS OF THE DESERT Camels were not only the most suitable mode of transportation; camel milk was often the only available liquid to drink in the desert. Only on very special occasions, such as a wedding or for the Eid celebration, would a camel be slaughtered. Camel meat is still today considered a very special delicacy, and the ships of the desert are bred for milk and meat and for one of the traditional sports – camel racing. Even the Bedouin ancestors would race their camels. These competitions were held not just for fun, but to identify the most suitable animals for breeding fast running camels, necessary for hunting and, not least, in battle. Nowadays, camel racing is purely a sport, of course. Races normally take place during the winter season in the early morning hours of the weekends. Real enthusiasts will pay up to a few million dollars for a champion animal, and trainers will feed the camels with the best food, including dates and honey, to build up their strength for the prestigious competitions. The Wathba Camel Race Track, about 45 km
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east of Abu Dhabi on the Al Ain Road, and the Al Maqam Track near Al Ain are the most popular racing venues. Schedules and information can be obtained from the Camel Racing Federation at Al Wathba, phone-number +971 2 583 9200.
DATE PALMS – GOD’S GIFT TO THE ARABS Arabs believe that god gave them the palm tree as a very special gift, something that can provide them with so many resources for survival in the harsh desert and mountain environment. Due to their deep roots, palm trees are able to reach underground water reserves and can survive even on water that is slightly salty. Often the Bedouins had to survive on a diet exclusively made up of camel milk and dates; the latter, however, offer very high nutrition values of about 3,000 kcal per kg. Beside commercial date farming – the UAE is the third largest date producer worldwide – palms have been planted in their thousands along the streets and in parks all over the country in the recent years. More than 150 different kinds of date palms are cultivated in the UAE. The fruits are either yellow or red in colour and of various shapes and sizes. Only the female date palms bear fruit, with about 60 to 80 kg dates per tree. In an environment with such limited resources, the Bedouin had no choice other than to make the best use of everything they could get their hands on. So the palm tree was not only a source of food, but also of building and crafting material: the leaves of the date palm were used to make all
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Falcon
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Arabian Mau
sort of household items and even in home building dry palm leaves were used, creating the tradition palmfrond or so called “Barasti” houses. And whatever could be use for nothing else was still good to make a fire. Even nowadays, a traditional Arab will have his BBQ made by burning dried palm leaves.
FALCONS – P RESTIGIOUS BIRDS OF P REY Bedouins have known for centuries how to train and hunt with falcons and other birds of prey. But what was once a means of survival has become today a prestigious sport, and falcons are highly regarded. The falcon even features as the UAE's national emblem, which shows a golden falcon with white feathers. A falconer will spare nothing to make sure his bird is well kept and looked after, and so it little wonder that a special hospital for falcons has been set up. Located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, about 6 km from the international airport, the world's largest falcon hospital is not only a good address for veterinary treatment but also a great place to learn more about these beautiful birds and their longstanding relationship with man. Visitors are welcome for tours, which take place from Sunday to Thursday at 10 AM and 2 PM , though prebooking is necessary: telephone +971 2 5755155.
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SEA LIFE The Arabian Gulf with its year-round warm waters has a rich marine life. Large shoals of fi sh, a great variety of shellfi sh and last not least the rich pearl banks have all contributed to the economy of the region. The pearling industry was a main source of income until the 1930s, when it was badly affected by the introduction of cultured pearl production in Japan and the subsequent dramatic decline in demand for the obviously more pricey natural pearls. The waters of the Arabian Gulf are home to many endangered species and the UAE runs extensive initiatives for their protection. Hawksbill sea turtles and dugongs are amongst the species under special surveillance and protection.
ARABIAN M AU - THE EMIRATES PURRING HERITAGE Even the UAE's so-called street cats are part of the heritage – though one for a long time unnoticed. Only in recent years has it come to light that the skinny, shy cats are one of the oldest breeds, the Arabian Mau. Originally living in the desert, they migrated to human settlements, where food was easier to find.
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Parks in Abu Dhabi
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Looking at the greenery and flowers all over town it is hard to imagine that the land was originally desert and the natural vegetation consisted of just a few date palms, Ghaf and Acacia trees and small bushes.
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Khalifa Park
Abu Dhabi has a number of public parks dotted around town. All the immaculate landscaped parks and gardens offer children's playgrounds and are very popular retreats for a walk, some sporting activities and of course to enjoy a BBQ with friends and family. Some of the largest parks can be found along and opposite the Corniche, right in the centre of town. Special cycling lanes are laid out, and next to the Hiltonia Beach Club bicycles can be rented. Skating enthusiast will enjoy the skatepark in front of the Baynoona Hilton tower. One of the city’s largest green areas is Khalifa Park, just off Salam Street. Beautifully landscaped, it is a quite retreat, along which a mini-railway runs. For kids up to 12 years of age the splash park is a fun-fi lled place, open in the afternoons from 2 PM (Tuesdays and Wednesdays are women-only days).
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Jewellery made from precious metals has been more than just adornments in the Arabian world for centuries. Traditional Bedouin jewellery is made from silver, the most common metal in earlier centuries. The wealth of the family was simply transformed into the most transportable form – and this was precious metal, which had an established trading value. And where else could this be better stored and carried than the safest and most protected place: on the bodies of the women. With time and greater trading ties to other regions, gold became more prominent on the Arabian Peninsula and nowadays gold and platinum are the preferred investments for women, and from a young age girls will be given jewellery and start piling up their gold treasure. It is still common in Arabia that a bride will get part of her dowry, the wedding gift, in the form of gold. Often these pieces are not really meant as adornments, rather they are kept as savings that, in times of need, could easily be cashed in. So it is little wonder that nowhere in the world is the jewellery trade flourishing as it is in Arabia and Asia. The quality of the gold traded in the UAE is famous and is closely monitored. The free trade environment makes the Emirates probably the cheapest place in the world to buy jewellery. Abu Dhabi’s Gold Souk is located on Fourth Street, commonly known as Muroor Road, and jewellers can be found in all shopping centres. Pure gold with 99.9 percent purity is labelled as 24-karat gold. This is fairly soft and since it is can easily get out of shape and be scratched, it is not practical for jewellery that is worn regularly. Exclusive jewellery is usually made from gold alloys of 75 percent or more. In the Western world Gold 585 – 14-karat gold – is most common; in the Middle East and Asia the preferred gold alloys are 18-karat (Gold 750) and 22-karat (Gold 916). Eight-karat gold (Gold 333) with just 33 percent of the precious metal in the alloy is only used in a few European countries; in many places it is not even allowed to label eight-karat jewellery as gold. For small and fragile pieces 18-karat gold might be the most suitable choice, since it is a harder and less delicate than 22-karat gold and will better survive daily use. White gold is getting ever more fashionable, and is also available in various alloys, however its gram price is usually about 20 percent higher than that for yellow gold. Something very unique is Purple Gold (about 20- karat), offered in some selective shops. Even though the UAE is the best place to buy gold, due to the near unlimited choice, prices will vary from shop to shop and bargaining skills and a bit of research and price calculation will help you get a really good deal. The gold price fluctuates and it is therefor advisable to check the daily rate before heading to the market. The daily gold price is based on the price for pure, 24-karat gold. The net price for 22-karat gold would be 91 percent of the given gold price, for 18-karat gold 75 percent, and for 14-karat gold 58 percent. The prices for heavy pieces – more than 10 grams – without precious stones are calculated by the weight of the gold: the seller will weigh the piece and multiply this by the gold price, including manufacturing charges. This latter can be anything between Dhs 60 and Dhs 120 per gram, depending on whether the piece is handmade and where it was manufactured. For small pieces, designer jewellery and pieces with precious stones, pearls and diamonds, the sales-person will give a price per piece, which can of course still be negotiated, and discounts of between 15 and 25 percent are a realistic range.
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Gold Souk
SOME GOLDEN RULES FOR GOLD SHOPPING 1. Never buy in the fi rst shop – similar items can be found in various stores and it is advisable to compare prices in at least three places. 2. Know the gold price before you leave on your shopping trip and negotiate according to gold prices for gold-only jewellery. 3. Don’t show too much excitement and never say to anyone with you words like “cheap”, “nice”, “I want this” – whatever language you use it will be understood and gives away that you are hooked. The price will not move much further from this point.
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4. Pay in cash in the local currency – credit-card charges or exchange rates above official rates might spoil an otherwise good price. Since the UAE is not only a gold-trading state but also a place of manufacturing, a lot of shops in the gold market have their own workshops and will not only be able to fit or repair jewellery quickly, but can also produce custom pieces especially for you at very competitive rates. The quality of the gold and gems used in the jewellery should be of no concern: the government monitors the trade closely and carries out regular spotchecks, making sure that no “black sheep” can damage the UAE's reputation. Certificates with detailed specifications are issued for each purchase and, if in any doubt, officially approved labs are available for testing.
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SHOPPING
Top Jewels Chopard
Pomellato
Bulgari
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Faberge Damas
Alexandra Mor
Louis Vuittonn
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Shopping Malls in Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI MALL
AVENUE AT ETIHAD TOWERS
DALMA MALL
OPEN IN 2014
Website Where
Website Where
Website Where
www.dalmamall.ae On the Abu Dhabi Al Ain Highway, Opposite Mohammed Bin Zayed City, close to Maqta Bridge and Abu Dhabi International Airport Telephone +971 2 550 6111 Opening hours Sunday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday - Saturday: 10 AM - midnight
BOUTIQUE MALL REEM ISLAND Sun and Sky Towers
THE SOUK – AT QARYAT AL BERI
YAS MALL www.aldar.com
Telephone Opening hours
www.abudhabi-mall.com Tourist Club Area, adjacent to the Beach Rotana Hotel, on 2nd Street, Sector 1-94 +971 2 645 4858 Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM, Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM, Friday: 3:30 PM - 11 PM
Telephone Opening hours
www.avenueatetihadtowers.ae Etihad Towers, Corniche West Street +971 2 613 3373 Monday - Thursday: 10 AM - 10 PM, Friday: 3 PM - 11 PM, Saturday - Sunday: 10 AM - 10 PM
MARINA MALL
AL RAHA MALL
Website Where
www.marinamall.ae Breakwater next to Abu Dhabi's Corniche, not far from the Hilton Hotel and Emirates Palace Hotel. Telephone +971 2 681 8300 Opening hours Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Friday: 2 PM - 11 PM
Website Where
KHALIDIYAH MALL
MADINAT ZAYED SHOPPING CENTER AND GOLD CENTER
www.al-rahamall.com Next to Al Raha Beach Hotel on Al Raha Beach Road, Al Raha district, 4048 Channel Street, Abu Dhabi - Dubai Highway Road Telephone +971 2 556 2229 Opening hours Saturday – Thursday: 10 AM – 11 PM, Friday: 2 PM – 11 PM
THE REEM MALL www.thereemmall.com THE COLLECTION AT SAADIYAT www.saadiyat.ae
Website Where
www.soukqaryatalberi.com between the Maqta and Musaffah bridges, adjacent to the Shangri-La Hotel Abu Dhabi Telephone +971 2 558 1670 Opening hours Every day: 9 AM - 9 PM FOTOUH AL KHAIR CENTRE
Website Where
www.khalidiyahmall.com On 26 th Street between 9 th and 11th Street in the Khalidiya area Telephone +971 2 635 4000 Opening hours Sunday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Thursday - Saturday: 8 AM - noon
Website Where
www.madinatzayed-mall.com Between Jawasat Road, Airport Road, Electra Road and Muroor Road, near Abu Dhabi Central Post Office Telephone +971 2 633 3311 Opening hours Saturday - Friday: 9 AM - 11 PM
AL WAHDA MALL
MUSHRIF MALL
Website Where
Website Where
www.alwahda-mall.com At the junction of 11th street (Hazza Bin Zayed the First) with 2nd Street (Airport Road), near the Central Bus Stop and Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel Telephone +971 2 443 7070 Opening hours Sunday - Thursday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Friday - Saturday: 10 AM -11 PM
Website Where
www.fotouhalkhair.com Intersection Airport Road and Sheikh Zayed 1 st Street (Electra) Telephone +971 2 681 1130 Opening hours Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday - Friday: 10 AM - 11 PM WORLD TRADE CENTER CENTRAL MARKET – SOUK
www.mushrifmall.com Between Airport Road and Muroor Road, close to Rocco Forte Hotel and just fi ve minutes drive from Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Telephone +971 2 690 4422 Opening hours Sunday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday - Saturday: 10 AM -11 PM
Website www.wtcad.ae Telephone +971 2 810 7810 Opening hours Sunday - Wednesday: 10 AM -10 PM , Thursday: 10 AM -11 PM , Friday: 3 PM - 11 PM , Saturday: 10 AM - 11 PM THE GALLERIA Website Where
www.thegalleria.ae Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island Telephone +971 2 6166 999 Opening hours Thursday: 10 AM - 12 AM Friday: 12 Noon - 12 AM Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM
WHERE L UXURY M EETS LIFESTYLE
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SHOPPING
GuessByMarciano
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Top Men’s Fashion
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Persol
Leica Ralph Lauren
AlexanderMcQueen
Shopping Malls ABU DHABI MALL
MARINA MALL
KHALIDIYAH MALL
Website Where
Website Where
Website Where
www.abudhabi-mall.com Tourist Club Area, adjacent to the Beach Rotana Hotel, on the 2nd Street, Sector 1-94 Telephone +971 2 645 4858 Opening hours Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM, Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM, Friday: 3:30 - 11 PM
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www.marinamall.ae Breakwater next to Abu Dhabi's Corniche, not far from the Hilton Hotel and Emirates Palace Hotel. Telephone +971 2 681 8300 Opening hours Saturday - Wednesday: 10 AM - 10 PM , Thursday: 10 AM - 11 PM , Friday: 2 - 11 PM
www.khalidiyahmall.com On 26 th Street between 9 th and 11th Street in the Khalidiya area Telephone +971 2 635 4000 Opening hours Sunday - Wednesday: 11 AM - 11 PM , Thursday - Saturday: 8 AM - noon
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CULTURE
The World of 1001 Fragrances A TRUE ARABIAN PASSION The true luxury of Arabia lays in its pleasures for all senses and above all the variety of oriental scents. Essential oils, frankincense and wood essences are the ingredients for oriental perfume dreams. Frankincense, also called olibanum is an aromatic resin, obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia. It has been known and used on the Arabian Peninsula and in North Africa for more than 5,000 years. Oman, along with Yemen, Somalia and India, are considered the main producers of frankincense. The trees grow in rocky, semi-desert conditions and can produce up to 22 pounds of frankincense resin for up to 30 years. Frankincense comes in many types, and its quality is based on colour, purity, aroma, age, and shape. Silver and Hojari are generally considered the highest grades of frankincense,
the most common use of which is to burn over charcoal to release scent. It is used both as a fragrance and in the rituals of various religions. The most exotic and pricey fragrance of all is oudh, which comes from the wood of the tropical evergreen agar tree. The trees originated in the Assam region of India, spreading from there throughout Southeast Asia. When the wood of this tree is infected with a certain variety of mould, it reacts by producing a precious, dark and fragrant resin, which is used as an ingredient for perfume.
Oudh is available as oil for perfume use or as woodchips that are brunt on charcoal to release the scent in the house. Since oudh is very rare and diffi cult to harvest, it is possibly the world's most expensive fragrance. The value of high quality oudh oil is considered 1.5 times the price of pure gold (and it is, indeed, sometimes called liquid gold). The prices for oudh woodchips starts at about Dhs 100 for a tola – around 12 grams – and can go up to Dhs 1,500 per tola for rare types of Cambodian oudh. Some oudh oil, like “Old India”, comes with a price tag of Dhs 5,200 for one tola.
e
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CULTURE
Bukhoor are small sentenced bricks, consisting mainly of tiny woodchips, perfume oil and resins. In rural areas it is still the custom that women would make their own bukhoor, and each family has its own recipe, passed down over generations. Ready-made bukhoor is available in Arabic perfume shops and the salesperson will be happy to put a small piece on the hot charcoal in the bukhoor burner for you to sample the smell. Long before perfumed fabric softeners came into common use, the Arabs developed techniques to capture the pleasant smell: a small stand, made from palm leaves, is placed over a bukhoor burner and garments are placed on the stand so the rising smoke can drift over material and leave traces of the fragrance in the material. It is
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a technique that is still in use today. Bukhoor plays a signifi cant role in Arabian hospitality: after dinner bukhoor is passed around to remove the smells of the food. Arabic homes are frequently perfumed with bukhoor and oudh and no wedding party or celebrating would be complete without passing the bukhoor around. Oudh or perfume oil might also be offered to a visitor as a gesture of hospitality, along with the traditional rosewater, to freshen up upon entering the house and to clean the hands after a meal. Traditional Arabic perfume is used in the form of pure oil and is not blended with alcohol, as is common in the Western world. Traditional
perfume shops carry perfume compositions – often in the scent of well-known perfume brands – as well as pure oils that can be mixed in order to create an individual fragrance. The elegant creations are best presented in lavish decorated perfume fl acons and applied in very small amounts using the thin glass sticks. Bukhoor burners come in various forms and materials, some even with electric heating spirals. The more traditional burners use charcoal tablets and are made from brownish clay and can be found in various shops around the spice market. They are very reasonable priced, however, they also break very easy and should therefore be packed with extra care for the journey back home.
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SHOPPING
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Ajmal
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Arabian Oud
Al Jazeera Amouage
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The World of 1001 Spices SPECIAL TREATS FOR THE TASTE-BUDS
With spices and exotic herbs most people think of small, neatly labelled glass fl acons. At the local spice markets the set up is slightly different: large jute bags full of dried herbs and exotic spices dominate the traditional shops and market stalls, from whence the often exotic products reach out to the kitchens of the world. Saffron, considered the most expensive condiment, is widely used in Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine. The tiny saffron stigmas are
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derived from the flower of the saffron crocus, which originally came from south East Asia. Iran is the biggest producer of saffron worldwide. To produce one kilogram of the precious spice, some 11,000 to 17,000 flowers are needed. It takes about 40 hours to pick this amount of crocuses, which would cover the area of about two football pitches. Various qualities are available from different regions and even though saffron is not cheap in the UAE, it will still cost a fraction of the prices abroad.
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Some items sold on the market might be really exotic and not used in Western cuisine at all: dried lemons, for instance, are very common in the local kitchen, giving traditional fish dishes and machboos its special taste. A special herbal mix, very common in Lebanese cuisine, is Za’atar, made from sumac, thyme, sesame seeds, marjoram, oregano and a bit of coarse salt. Za’tar is used for various meat dishes, to spice up white cheese and the yoghurt-like Labneh for breakfast, on flat Arabic bread and even in croissants.
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The traders offer an endless variety of curries, the often really hot spice mixes that are so popular in Indian and Asian cuisine. Dried herbs, used for a variety of herbal infusions, can be found: dried Hibiscus flowers, known locally as karkade, are used to prepare a dark red drink, which is a cold or hot delicacy, and is also used as a herbal medication to reduce blood pressure.
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FINE DINING
The Gourmet Metropolis ABU DHABI’S BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANTS
55&5th, The Grill BiCE
Bord Eau
Cuisine Steakhouse Open 7 PM – 12 PM Reservation +971 2 498 8008 reservations.saadiyat@stregis.com Address The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island
Cuisine Italian Open 12 AM – 3 PM, 3 PM – 11 PM Reservation +971 2 811 5666 JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com Address Podium Level 1, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
Cuisine Open Reservation Address
A classic grill and lounge, this is the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort's signature venue. Inspired by the address of the original St. Regis New York, the restaurant features a private dining room and chef's table, an exclusive cellar, complete with Jazz music, cigars and bespoke service. Lee Murdoch is the Chef de Cuisine at 55&5th, The Grill. He is Award of Excellence from the Academy of Culinary Arts.
Discover authentic Italian dining at BiCE with its contemporary design and the ambience of the Italian charm. BiCE offers the exceptional combination of modern and traditional Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner served in a stylish location at the heart of the capital. With both indoor and al fresco seating, BiCE in Jumeirah at Etihad Towers is the perfect venue to indulge in sumptuous Italian dishes.
Bord Eau is the ultimate restaurant for French fine dining in Abu Dhabi. In the setting of a chic dining room that boasts opulent fabrics and furniture, the chef de cuisine prepares seasonal fresh produce that is flown in from France and serves each dish as an artistic expression. Bord Eau offers a superb a la carte menu and daily specials. For the ultimate Bord Eau experience, the blind tasting menu is a must. Quiet instrumentals and a warm ambiance complement the rich gastronomy to create an intimate dining experience.
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Contemporary French 7 PM – 11:30 PM +971 2 509 8511 Shangri-La Hotel, Level 3, Lobby Level
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Catalan
Entrecote
Hakkasan
Cuisine Catalonian Open 7 PM - 11:30 PM Reservation +971 2 813 5550 abudhabi@rosewoodhotels.com Address Rosewood Hotel, Sowwah Square, Al Maryah Island
Cuisine Open Reservation Address
Cuisine Chinese Open 12 AM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 12 PM Reservation +971 2 690 7999 hakkasan@emiratespalace.ae Address Emirates Palace West Corniche Road
A nod to the elegance of the early 1900s, Catalan is a classic salon that evokes the welcoming charm and comfort of a fine European home. With ribbon-grained fine woods and floor-to-ceiling views of the gardens, this authentic restaurant provides a warm and cozy atmosphere for diners, romantics and enthusiasts for Catalan cuisine from the northeastern region of Spain. The fi rst Catalonian restaurant in Abu Dhabi, Catalan is an ideal destination for impeccable service and outstanding cuisine.
The sauce “Café de Paris” developed by Mr. Boubier in 1930 to accompany the faux fillet steak (Entrecote) at his restaurant in Geneva enabled him to launch an astonishing concept offering a single menu formula that gained an immediate worldwide success. The ingredients of this sauce are still secret till today. Mr. François Voulliamoz, the owner of the original Entrecote “Café de Paris” restaurant in Geneva, Rue Mont Blanc is the only person in the world who holds the secret of this sauce as it originated in 1930.
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French 10 AM – 12 PM +971 2 5576508 Souk At Qaryat Al Beri 1st Floor
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Long-time design partner Gilles & Boissier, based in Paris, designed the space with the Hakkasan ethos of the modern ethnic, interpreting it for the United Arab Emirates. Hakkasan’s signature dishes like Peking duck with caviar and grilled Wagyu beef with king soy sauce are served alongside a set of new dishes created especially for an Emirate clientele.
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FINE DINING
Pearls&Caviar
Rhodes 44
Scott’s
Cuisine Mediterranean Open 7 PM (Friday 8 PM) – 11:30 PM Reservation + 971 2 509 8777 www.shangri-la.com Address Khor Al Maqta Adjacent to The Villas by Shangri-La
Cuisine International Open 12 AM – 3 PM , 7 PM – 11 PM Reservation +971 2 6944553 restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com Address The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, at Nation Towers
Cuisine Seafood Open 12 AM – 3 PM, 7 PM – 11 PM Reservation +971 2 811 5666 JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com Address Ground floor, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
A superb dining and lounging destination, Pearls & Caviar is a stylish and eclectic Mediterranean seafood restaurant with an exquisite waterfront setting offering stunning views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. With a new take on presentation, the restaurant uses fresh seafood combined with Mediterranean tastes for a unique culinary experience. The upstairs Pearls Bar is the perfect venue for an ultimate lounging experience.
Vibrancy and energy are key to Rhodes 44. Guests choose from dining inside in a richly colourful restaurant or al fresco in the spacious private garden overlooking the Corniche. The extensive à-la-carte menu comprises a careful blend of European and British classics with the jewels of Middle Eastern cuisine, created by highly respected British chef Gary Rhodes. Dedication to his craft and pursuit of perfection has made him one of the world’s leading chefs. Should visitors wish for intimacy, the private dining room seats up to thirty.
For the first time in its 160 year history, Scott's is open in a new location outside of London in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Offering the finest oysters, fish and crustacean, as well as seasonal game, meat and vegetarian dishes, the decor of this rare and exquisite escape is as dramatic as its location over water. If you seek stylishly simple seafood, impeccably presented within sumptuous surroundings, then Scott's is impossible to beat.
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Tori No Su Cuisine Japanese Open 12 AM – 3:30 PM, 7 PM – 11:30 PM Reservation +971 2 811 5666 JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com Address Podium Level 3, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
This sleek, modern Japanese restaurant offers contemporary dishes, dreamt up by kaiseki-trained chef Ando. To visit Tori No Su is to be spoilt for choice. Will you enjoy fresh fish from the sushi bar, ‘iron plate’ dishes from the Teppanyaki counter, or something slow-grilled from the Robatayaki counter? Alternatively, in traditional Japanese style, you could order an "omakase" course, whereby Chef Ando and his team will create a surprising selection of dishes on demand.
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FINE DINING
Abu Dhabi’s favorable weekend-treat F B RIDAY
RUNCH
Sky Brunch at 18°
CuiScene
HYATT CAPITAL GATE
FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR
The hotel’s signature restaurant, 18°, invites guests seeking an exquisite experience to indulge in authentic creations while relaxing with panoramic views of the city. 18° offers specialty dishes from the gastronomic heritage of the Eastern Mediterranean, made using ingredients that are inspired by locally sourced produce and simple flavours to enhance the freshness of the food, are served.
CuiScene, the ultimate ‘scene for cuisine’ in Abu Dhabi. This casual, yet elegant venue is perfect for a leisurely repast or a business meal. The abundant international buffet, features dishes from Europe, Asia and the Middle East, highlighting each month a different selection of nature’s seasonal bounty so that guests can savour a variety of creative preparations.
Address
Address
Capital Gate Hyatt Hotel, ADNEC Reservation +971 2 596 1440 restaurants.capitalgate@hyatt.com Open Every Friday 12 AM – 4 pM Prices Soft drinks AED 250 Grapes and wines AED 300
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta Reservation +971 2 654 3333 babalbahr@fairmont.com Open Every Friday 12 AM – 4 PM Prices Soft drinks AED 249 Grapes and wines AED 299 Bubbly AED 469
Fairways
Ingredients
WESTIN ABU DHABI
ANANTARA EASTERN MANGROVE
Whether you're enjoying the carefully selected SuperFoods available from the buffet selection or sampling the delights of interactive brunch, you're sure to be tempted by the delectable dishes on offer at Fairways.
Already regarded as one of the best Abu Dhabi restaurants, this all-day venue features culinary specialities from around the world. Freshly baked Arabic bread, a live sushi bar; breakfast, lunch, and dinner from five different kitchens. Choose from an expansive organic selection amid the elegant atmosphere defined by the two spacious al fresco terraces and the warm hues of the stone walled interior.
Address
The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Sas Al Nakhl Reservation +971 2 616 9999 westinauh.info@westin.com Open Every Friday 12:30 AM – 4 pM Prices Soft drinks AED 290 Grapes and wines AED 325 Bubbly AED 490
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Address
Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, Sheikh Zayed Street Reservation +971 2 656 1000 easternmangroves@anantara.com Open Every Friday 12 AM – 4 pM Prices Soft drinks AED 225 Grapes and wines AED 280 Bubbly AED 425
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Bubbly Brunch
Nahaam
Olea
BEACH ROTANA HOTEL
JUMEIRAH AT ETIHAD TOWERS
ST.REGIS SAADIYAT
Start your weekends with a sumptuous Friday Brunch that will offer you the best of three restaurants! Enjoy classic German food, including a roast at Brauhaus and Japanese favourites at Benihana. At Essence, we offer an Arabic corner, Asian and Continental dishes too. Keep your kids occupied as you sit back and enjoy your meal. Activities for the kids include face painting, popcorn, cotton candy, a bouncy castle, ice cream, balloon sculptors, from time to time.
Every Friday savour a brunch featuring sizzling live BBQ stations offering an abundance of premium meats, succulent seafood and all your favourites. Enjoy chilled free flowing beverages including premium pink bubbly
The Jazz Brunch, at Olea offers the choicest selection of Mediterranean fair ranging from fresh seafood and grilled delicacies to decadent desserts prepared at live cooking stations creating a truly bespoke brunch experience. Complementing the personalized culinary journey are highly skilled mixologists preparing tantalizing beverages such as the signature Arabian Snapper.
Address
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta Reservation +971 2 697 9011 fb.beach@rotana.com. Open Every Friday 12:30 AM – 3:30 PM Prices Soft drinks AED 245 Grapes and wines AED 315 Bubbly AED 485
Address
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Podium Level 1 Reservation +971 2 811 5666 JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com Open Every Friday 12 AM – 4 pM Prices Fizzy and Bubbly AED 495 Hops and Grapes AED 385 Soft Drinks AED 285
Address Reservation Open Prices
SOFRA BLD
Marina Brunch
YAS VICEROY
SHANGRI-LA
INTERCONTINENTAL
Embark on a fabulous journey of fl avours and enjoy a lively dining experience with great atmosphere as you explore cuisine from around the world at Origins Ultimate Friday Brunch!
Sofra bld offers an extensive buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner where guests can browse the live cooking stations, interact with the chefs and pick and choose from a wide range of international dishes, truly mirroring the souk experience of the Middle East. The restaurant serves Arabic, Moroccan, Indian and European cuisine, with a magnificent dessert station for a grand fi nale.
Take your pick from the best of Chamas, Boccaccio, The Yacht Club and the Belgian Cafe, with live cooking stations, choice cuts of meat, fresh mussels, pasta and much more. Dine inside or out at The Yacht Club or Chamas, while listening to live music by DJ Rabih or 4 piece band from Colombia “QUATTRO".
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St.Regis Saadiyat Island Resort +971 2 498 8888 Every Friday 12:30 AM – 4 pM Grapes and wines AED 300 Bubbly AED 495
Origins
Address Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, Yas Island Reservation +971 2 656 0600 dining@viceroyhotelsandresorts.com Open Every Friday 12:30 AM – 4 pM Prices Soft drinks AED 225 Bubbly AED 350
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Address Address
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, Level 1 Ground Floor Reservation +971 2 509 8555 Open Every Friday 1 PM – 4 pM Prices Soft drinks AED 250 Grapes and wines AED 285 Bubbly AED 410
Hotel Intercontinental, Bainouna Street Reservation +971 2 6666 888 dine.icabudhabi@ihg.com Open 12 AM – 16 PM Prices Soft drinks AED 216 Grapes and wines AED 250
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FINE DINING
The best hidden culinary treasures LOCAL AND EMIRATI FOOD
Al Arish
Mezlai
Al Dar restaurant
AL DHAFRA, PORT AREA
EMIRATES PALACE
EMIRATES ZOO PARK
Al Arish restaurant specilises in Gulf and traditional Folk Cuisine, and all kinds of seafood grills. Guests have choice of sea food, chicken and meat and can have their choice prepared by our chefs, some of whom are rated as among the fi nest in the Gulf. Local dishes served includes Biriyani, Gisheed, Ouzi, Majboos, Fish Maglai and others.
Mezlai (means the old lock of the door) offers the perfect blend of an authentic dining experience with a genuine Emirati cuisine that serves a variety of local dishes made with carefully sourced and fresh ingredients. You can relax in the warm and inviting ambience where you will be welcomed with friendly service.
A real local restaurant in Al Bahia with unique atmosphere. Its cuisine serves a variety of local and Arabic dishes. It’s the only place in the neighbourhood where sisha is availiable.
Address Port Area Reservation +971 2 673 2266 Open 10 AM – 4 PM , 7 PM – 11 PM
Address Emirates Palace, West Corniche Rd Reservation +971 2 690 7999 restaurants@emiratespalace.ae Open 1 PM – 11:30 PM
Address Emirates Park resort, Al Bahia Reservation +971 2 5645115 Open 8 AM – 1 AM
You will enjoy the very traditional design of the restaurant.
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Fine Dining on Smartphones
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Download this app to discover the gourmet metropolis Abu Dhabi!
Download Your App for Smartphones and Tablets
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SIGHTSEEING
Garden City Al Ain e
Hili Archeological Park
In the Easten Region of Abu Dhabi, next to one of the biggest oasis and at the foot of the country's highest mountain the Jebel Hafeet, is the garden city Al Ain. The natural springs gave the city its name – Al Ain means springs. The city is part of a twin-town; its counterpart is the Omani city Buraimi. The international border goes almost straight across the town. The earliest settlements here are among some of the oldest in the entire UAE. The remains of a 5,000-year-old Bronze Age settlement and a round-shaped burial place in the Hili Archaeological Park are some of the most
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signifi cant historical fi nds in the country, supporting the theory that the oasis town was already being used as a trading place, where caravans would stop, thousands of years ago.
town is still used for date cultivation, still administered in traditional way and irrigated with the falaj, a system of open water-channels distributing the water over the whole plantation.
Due to its natural water resources and the fertile red sands, the region around the Al Ain Oasis was always a regional centre of farming and date plantations. Since these natural resources were so crucial for the survival of the people, numerous forts and watchtowers were built to guard and protect them. Most of those same forts have now been renovated and transformed into museums. The Al Ain Oasis in the middle of the traditional
Al Ain was the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed, the founder and late President of the United Arab Emirates. Zayed grew up in the oasis town, deeply rooted in and connected with the Bedouin tribal culture. As fairly young man he was appointed the representative of the tribal leader for the Al Ain region and with his true passion for gardening and agriculture managed to further develop the region.
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Al Ain Oasis
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Jebel Hafeet
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Abu Dhabi’s 1001 Faces of the Desert A large part of Abu Dhabi is desert. It is said that the seven Emirates of the UAE have seven different colours of sand; assembled in decorative glass vessels and picture frames the Seven Sands of the Emirates became a popular souvenir. Indeed the sand in the western coastal areas is of a light yellow colour due to sediments of shells and coral skeletons. Towards the Al Ain region the sand is more of a reddish/orange, a result of erosion from the nearby Hajar Mountains containing, amongst other minerals, large
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amounts of iron oxides. In the northern areas of the eastern coastline the almost black sand is due to large amounts of gabbro rocks in this part of the Hajar mountain range. The Western Region of Abu Dhabi is dominated by Rub al Khali, the so-called Empty Quarter. This, the largest and most inhospitable sand desert in the world, stretches over the southern third of the Arabian Peninsula, covering large areas of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
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The Rub al Khali is also one of the most oil-rich areas of the world. In total about 1,000 kilometres long, and 500 kilometres wide, its sand dunes rise to a height of up to 250 metres. The fi ne sand is a of a reddish-orange colour Nestled amidst the endless dunes is the green Liwa Oasis. The villages in the oasis are the foremost southern settlements in the UAE. With its palm plantations nowadays a growing centre of agricultural production, Liwa is the traditional home of the region’s most influential Yas tribe, the forefathers of the ruling families of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Fort in Liwa
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Nature and Arabian Heritage Al Ain has it all – beautiful nature and places full of Arab tradition, culture and heritage.
The Hili Archaeological Park is a must-see during a visit to Al Ain. The Bronze Age burial place is most probably the oldest witness of the first civilisations in the area. The walls are decorated with engravings of oryx, the white antelopes that became almost extinct and are now being re-bred in natural conservation areas. Pieces of ancient pottery and jewellery found in the archaeological digs are preserved and displayed in the Al Ain National Museum, located in the middle of town, next to the oasis. Beside historical
galleries, the museum features a lovely exhibition displaying traditional Bedouin life in the oasis. The former residence of Sheikh Zayed, just around the corner from the National, is now as Palace Museum open to the public. The place has been refurbished and the rooms are set up as they were in the '60s, when Zayed and his family lived here. Even the large tent that was used during the cooler winter months to host guest is set up in the inner courtyard. In the proximity of his palace Zayed established the first formal school. Walking through
the residential quarters, with its simplicity and basic furniture, is the most stunning experience, illustrating how simply even rulers of the region lived just half a century ago. Zayed was always a man open towards different cultures and welcomed people from all over the world. Even in the set-up of his humble palace this welcoming and thoughtful attitude can be seen: the stateroom where he would welcome Arabic guests is laid out in the traditional way with carpets and floor cushions to sit on; the stateroom to welcome Western guest has sofas, to provide the visitors with more comfort.
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Š Jehad Alzaabia
Al Ain Palace Museum
Al Ain National Museum
The Al Jahili Fort hosts a permanent exhibition of the photographic work of Wilfred Thesiger. The Briton was one of the last great adventurers, writers and photographers. He studied the life of the Bedouin and crossed the Empty Quarter desert. He was a close life-long friend of Sheikh Zayed and the locals even gave him an Arabic nickname – Mubarak bin London, Mubarak, son of London. The Al Jahili Fort is regularly used for cultural events and a permanent venue for concerts during the Abu Dhabi Music and Art festivals. All the museums are open all day from Saturday to Thursday and on Friday afternoons after 3 PM. The impressive Hajar mountain range rises next to the city. At 1,249 metres, Jebel Hafeet is one of the highest mountains in the UAE. A spectacular road spirals up to the top and nestled on a plateau just a few metres below the summit is the UAE's highest hotel, the Mercure Jebel Hafeet Hotel, an insider's tip for a weekend retreat during hot summers; temperatures at the top are almost 10 degrees lower than those down below.
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Mubarak bin London Exhibition
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Jebel Hafeet
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SIGHTSEEING
Green Mubazarrah
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The foot of the mountain range is home to another natural beauty: hot springs and the Green Mubazzara, an area full of vegetation in the middle of the rocky, sandy desert and mountain surrounding. The Mubazzara is a very popular place for people to get a bit of fresh air, have some family time and, not least, to bath in the natural springs, which are believed to be a good cure for muscle and bone problems.
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Camel Market
A very special trading place, unique even in the UAE, is the camel market in Al Ain, the only permanent such market in the whole country. The camel and livestock market, earlier located next to the Al Ain Oasis in the middle of town, was shifted a few years ago to its new location out of town, where the animals can be kept under more comfortable conditions and in shaded open stables with more space. The camel market is on Zayed bin Sultan Street, next to the Al Bawadi Mall, about 10 km from the city centre of Al Ain. The market is open daily.
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SIGHTSEEING
1001 Nights DESERT ADVENTURES A visit to Arabia would not be complete without a trip to the desert. It is said that the seven Emirates of the United Arab Emirates have seven different colours of sand – assembled in decorative glass vessels and picture frames the Seven Sands of the Emirates became a popular souvenir. Indeed the sand in the western coastal areas is of light yellow colour due to sediments of shells and coral skeletons, towards the Al Ain region the sand is turning into more reddish/orange, a result of erosion from the nearby Hajar Mountains, containing amongst other minerals large amounts of iron-oxides and in the northern areas of the eastern coastline the almost black sand is due to large amounts of gabbro rocks in this part of the Hajar mountain range. An excursion can be best arranged via one of the numerous tourist companies offering day-trips into the desert as well as into the impressive mountains. The occasional rainfall in the Hajar Mountains has, over 20 million years, washed out deep valleys, the so-called wadis. Most of the year these riverbeds are dry, except for some pools filled year-round with fresh water from natural springs. The picturesque Hatta pools are a popular destination for a desert trip. A dune dinner combines a desert trip with a folklore evening program. Even though belly dancing and waterpipes do not really originate in this region, but rather from the North African region of Arabia, it helps create the atmosphere of 1,001 nights and an unforgettable evening under the stars in the desert.
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The Seven Emirates
Dubai
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Out of the seven Emirates Dubai is the second largest, occupying with its 4,110 square kilometers, about five percent of the total land mass of the United Arab Emirates. The Emirate consists of the city of Dubai with its suburbs and the enclave Hatta. The 14 km long natural seawater arm, the Creek, was the place, where recent settlements of Dubai started. Traders settled down at the bays of the Dubai creek and started the urban development. The vibrant souks, where till today traditional dhows anchor capture the image of Dubais century old tradition as a trading place and cultural melting pot. The small sea-trade place became one of the best know commercial centers of the world. To be on top of the trade – that was
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and is Dubais credo and under the leadership of his Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rasheed Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the city never sleeps and never fails to impress the world with its ambitious achievements and projects, be it the tallest building of the world, the largest shopping mall of the world, the fi rst 7 star Hotel, the largest man-made islands of the world or the most expensive horse-race. Dubai is re-inventing itself over and over again and still is very true to it´s nature as the trading place of the world. And as all successful traders know: “Puff is part of the trade.” One of the big puffs on the horizon is the EPO 2020 – Dubai will make sure, that this is going to be a real big one.
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SIGHTSEEING
The Seven Emirates
Sharjah THE CULTURAL CAPITAL OF ARABIA
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Sharjah, the third largest of the Emirates and Dubai’s northern neighbour, is known as having become UNESCO’s Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998. Sharjah is home to a large number of unique museums, amongst them the Museum of Islamic Civilization. The historical centre of the city has been rebuilt and most of the former residences transformed into museums and cultural places. The Emirate hosts a big contemporary art exhibition via its Biennale. The Sharjah Art Foundation also has a yearlong program that includes exhibitions, performances, and screenings. Its cultural programming is comparable to many well-established art centres in the West. The city was named as the Capital of Islamic Culture for 2014 because of the love and support for culture shown by its ruler, Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi.
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The Seven Emirates
Ajman
At just 2,060 square kilometres, Ajman is the smallest of the seven Emirates. Located on the coastline north of Dubai, it is a traditional shipbuilding place and home to one of the best know shipyards in the country: Gulf Craft Inc, a manufacturer of luxury yachts and fibreglass vessels. Ajman’s history is presented in its Heritage
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Museum, located in an old fort. Even though the Emirate has about 16 km of coastline only, international hotel chain Kempinski picked the beachside of the small city to open its fi rst hotel in the UAE in 1998 – others have followed, the latest being the most luxurious hotel in the whole region, the Kempinski Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.
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The Seven Emirates
Fujairah Fujairah is the only Emirate on the eastern shore of the UAE. The Indian Ocean coastline is a well-known tourist destination. The proximity of the Hajar Mountains and the quite beaches make it an ideal destination to rewind and relax. The Friday market on the road from the mainland through the mountains to the east coast is the largest and most popular street market in the country – a good place to get fresh fruit or make a bargain on a carpet. The area is particularly popular among scuba
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divers, who fi nd here beautiful dive spots full of tropical fi sh and colourful soft- and hard-corals. Fujairah boasts the only multi-purpose port on the eastern seaboard of the United Arab Emirates, from where large quantities of the UAE’s oil exports are shipped. The Al Badiyah Mosque (located in Al Badiyah, a small village next to Dibba) is considered to be the oldest in the UAE. According to the latest archaeological fi ndings, the mosque and two watchtowers overlooking the village were built in 1446.
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© www.aquiziam.com
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The Seven Emirates
Š www.rasalkhaimahtourism.com
Ras Al Khaimah
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On the northern edge of the west coast lays the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, literally translated as “The top of the tent”. The region was a former stronghold of seafarers who fearlessly defended the area – known in previous centuries as the Pirate Coast – against potential invaders. The most famous son of the region is the seafarer and navigator Ahmed bin Majid, who lived in the 15 th century and published in 1490 the ‘Book of Useful Information
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on the Principles and Rules of Navigation’. With its long sandy beaches, the emirate is a hidden treasure on the UAE’s tourist map. It will surely become better known with extensive new tourism developments in the Al Hamra area, where the fi rst Waldorf Astoria Hotel in the UAE is about to open. At the outskirts of town lays the fi rst and only cultured pearl farm in the gulf region, continuing the region’s centurieslong pearling tradition.
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SIGHTSEEING
The Seven Emirates
Umm Al-Quwain The Emirate of Umm al Quwain, located on the northwestern coast of the Arabian Gulf, is well known among seafoodlovers as the crab-hunting spot. Located in the lagoon of Umm al Quwain, the Flamingo beach hotel offers a crabhunting programme. Boats ferry guests to the natural mangroves abundant with
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crustaceans. Experienced staff are on hand to assist and make sure the crab-hunters come back with enough spoils for dinner. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the old fort, hosting a small heritage museum and water lovers might like to head to the Dreamland Aqua Park, a 250,000 square metre water park with more than 30 rides.
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© Anantara
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A trip into the desert can be best arranged via one of the numerous tourist companies, offering daytrips into the desert as well as into the impressive mountain areas. The occasional rainfall in the Hajar Mountains has washed out deep valleys over 20 million years, the so-called wadis. Most of the year these riverbeds are dry except for some pools fi lled year around with fresh water from natural springs. A Dune-Dinner combines a desert trip with a folklore evening programme. Even though belly
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dancing and waterpipes did not really originate in the region, but come rather from the North African region of Arabia, it creates the atmosphere of 1001 nights and an unforgettable evening under the stars in the desert. For the more adventurous, a completely new experience might be sand skiing; sliding down the large sand dunes in the Empty Quarter is an extraordinary experience. Tour operators offer various packages for this fun sport during the winter
months: due to the extreme heat, sand skiing is not a summer pursuit. Another unique desert experience is a stay in the Qasr Al Sarab ("the Palace of the Mirage") located seven kilometres from Liwa’s main Hamim highway crossing. Set in the middle of the picturesque dunes of Rub al Khali, the Empty Quarter, the hotel combines the peaceful and tranquil desert environment with the highest standards of luxury hospitality.
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Sun, Sand & Skiing!
A trip to Arabia would be not complete without getting some sand under your feet, and watching the sunset in the endless wilderness of the desert.
e
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SIGHTSEEING
www.emiratesparkzoo.com
Wildlife at Your Fingertips EMIRATES PARK ZOO
Launched in 2008, the Emirates Zoo in Al Shahama is the first private zoo in the UAE. With more than 1,200 animals including the only two Asian elephants in the UAE, it is home to an exotic menagerie of wildlife. Some of the zoo’s inhabitants are better watched from behind a fence and at a safe distance – even though the Siberian white tigers and cheetahs might look and act like playful house cats. For real handson cuddling experiences, the domestic section offers plenty of opportunities for kids of any age to interact with and feed the animals. With a laid back and family-oriented atmosphere, the zoo is a place that inspires and encourages kids and adults alike to explore, have fun and stay connected to nature and wildlife. The zoo park is located in the north east of Abu Dhabi in the Al Shahama area off Al Rahba. The way is signed from the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway. Zoo opens every day at 9 30 am to 800 pm and Thursdays-Saturdays close 900 pm. June to August the same hours as we are having some day visitors. Ramadan 500 pm to Midnight. After Ramadan, eid holidays 930 am to 900 pm.
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SPORT
Since the inaugural Formula 1 race event, the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, held in November 2009, motorsport has had a distinguished address in the United Arab Emirates: Yas Island – an entire island developed and dedicated to motorsport. The Abu Dhabi race is a spectacular day-night event – at launch the only one in the Grand Prix calendar.
© Volvo Ocean Race Abu Dhabi
Motorsport Yas-Island
© Yas Marina Circuit
Yachting
The Yas Marina Circuit can run races in three different configurations: the full F1 track is 5.55 km long and has a total of 21 turns, 12 to the left and nine to the right. The second and third configurations of the track are 3.15 km and 2.36 km respectively, and can run independently of each other, allowing two simultaneous races to take place. The 2014 Etihad Airways Formula 1 Grand Prix will take place on 23 November, the 19th race of the season. Beside Formula 1, the Yas Marina Circuit hosts a wide spectrum of national and international races and offers motorsport enthusiasts the chance to get their hands on some extraordinary rides. On Tuesday evenings horsepower is off the track though: it is open from 6 to 9 PM to cyclists, runners and walkers - free of charge. The nearby Yas Arena it is often not much quieter than the racetrack, certainly not when international superstars are rocking the stage.
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Boat lovers value Abu Dhabi’s calm azure blue waters and the town’s yacht clubs have a sophisticated collection of boats available for rent. Yacht clubs and boating companies can be found in most hotels along the shoreline and arrange cruises along the coast and the mangroves around Abu Dhabi’s islands. A wide range of high-class boats with experienced crews is available for individual charter via abudhabimarinayacht.com. Leisure cruises as well as deep-sea fishing trips can be arranged. Yellow Boats operate regular trips from the Abu Dhabi International Marina Sports Club at the Breakwater Island – telephone: 800 8044.
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Diving
The year-round warm waters and the rich marine life of the Arabian Gulf make Abu Dhabi an ideal destination for underwater adventure. Everyone from beginners to certified divers can find opportunities to explore the underwater world of Arabia under the experienced guidance of professional dive pros. Dive centres offer diving courses and dive experiences and arrange trips around Abu Dhabi’s islands and coastline, as well as to the east coast of the UAE. Small reefs consisting of hard corals and a number of shipwrecks of various sizes are the main dive spots close to Abu Dhabi. Day trips to those on the east coast are offered frequently. Here in the Indian Ocean soft corals and colourful tropical fish offer unforgettable memories below the waves.
Yas Waterworld
Check with the Al Mahara Dive Centre on +971 2 643 7377 for upcoming dive trips and training courses. Boats leave from the Emirates Palace Marina.
Next door to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and at the centre of Yas Island’s entertainment complex, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is the largest waterpark in the capital. Spreading over 15 hectares, the waterpark features a thrilling range of 43 rides, slides and attractions. Four rides are one-of-a-kind that have never been seen in a waterpark before. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi's theme is based on a legend that represents local Emirati culture and heritage. Visitors can enjoy attractions that follow the adventures of the waterpark's main character Dana – a young Emirati girl in search of a legendary pearl that brought prosperity to her village. Based on the legend, the park has a unique pearl diving attraction that showcases the role pearl diving played in the UAE’s rich history. Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi on Yas Island has been developed by Aldar Properties and is operated by Farah Leisure Parks Management LLC.
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SPORT
Al Bateen Executive Airport Located on Abu Dhabi’s main island, the Al Bateen Executive Airport is the fi rst dedicated private jet airport in the Middle East and North Africa. The airport was the fi rst to open in the 1960s. After the new international airport opened out of town in 1982, Al Bateen became a military base. Another change took place in 2008, when Al Bateen was redeveloped into a world-class executive airport that now has a stand capacity of 50 private jets.
+971 2 449 4521 +971 2 494 2333 albateeninfo@adac.ae www.albateenairport.com
© Abu Dhabi Airports Company
Telephone: Fax: Email: Web:
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SIGHTSEEING
Arrive in style
© Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ABU DHABI'S INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Abu Dhabi’s International Airport has been operating since 1982 and consists of three terminals with a capacity of around 12.5 million passengers annually. The Midfield Terminal Complex is currently under development, and will aim to triple passenger capacity to 47 million per year.
the fastest growing airline in the world. From its home base, Etihad operates a fleet of 66 aircraft on more than 100 fl ights per week, serving a network of 84 international destinations. Etihad Airways has received a range of awards, including ‘World’s Leading Airline’ at the World Travel Awards in 2009, 2010 and 2011.
Abu Dhabi’s national carrier, Etihad Airways, started commercial operations in November 2003 and within a very short period of time became
Telephone: +971 2 505 5555 Fax: +971 2 505 5555 Web: www.abudhabiairport.ae
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"Etihad Modern Art Gallery in Abu Dhabi, UAE, encourages the creation of art with local references, showcasing work from well established as well as new Emirati and international artists. It is a dynamic multi-function art space that aims to play a positive role to the brightly emerging art scene in Abu Dhabi, opening a dialogue with the public, introducing new art concepts and challenging activities. Since the launch, Etihad Modern Art Gallery and Arthouse Cafe are rapidly becoming the centre of a lively community of art enthusiasts."
www.etihadmodernart.com
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SPORT
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Ghantoot
Racing & Polo Club Set in 300 hectares of perfectly manicured grassland, Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club offers an oasis of calm and tranquillity amid the hustle and bustle of desert life. The UAE's only Royal club boasts world-class polo and equestrian facilities and is recognised as one of the most prestigious clubs of its kind in the world. Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club sprung up around the vision of the late President, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and is today run under the patronage of his son, His Highness Sheikh Falah bin Zayed Al Nayhan. Conveniently located just 40 minutes from Abu Dhabi city centre and 15 minutes from Dubai Marina, Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club often throws open its gates, inviting members of the public to enjoy polo tournaments, sporting events, music concerts and other festive activities hosted at the club.
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SPORT
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club Located in the Al Mushrif area, just 10 minutes from the city centre, the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club is a tranquil oasis in one of the Gulf’s most up-to-date and beautiful cities. The club covers a vast area and provides members with a relaxed and restful atmosphere away from the hustle of modern day life. As the name implies, the club was originally established as an equestrian centre, but over the years, due to the encouragement and support of the late President His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the club has enjoyed steady and sustained development. What was once an undeveloped sandy area is now arguably
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one of the finest recreational parks in the entire Gulf region. The complex consists of an international standard racecourse with racing conditions that are comparable to anywhere in the world. A number of important races take place annually, including the National Day Cup, H.H. The President’s Cup and the Emirates Championship. These prestigious races have been established for more than 10 years and are recognised internationally. The facility also includes a circular, 2,000-metre training track on the inside of the racecourse and more than 250 air-conditioned stalls used exclusively for stabling the racehorses.
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The club also boasts a spectacular show jumping arena, in which an obstacle similar to the famous Hickstead Bank has been constructed, along with a natural water jump that adds to the variety of the various events that take place throughout the season. Many important show jumping competitions take place at the club, and the annual Abu Dhabi International Show has become well established, with riders from around the world coming back year after year to support what has been described by many as the most enjoyable events of the season. In line with the wishes of Their Highnesses The Sheikhs to encourage and promote equestrianism among the youth of the country and to restore the ancient craft of horsemanship to the people, the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has one of the most efficient and successful riding schools in the area, with instruction of all levels available to pupils of all ages who wish to learn and absorb the principles required to master the art of horsemanship.
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SPORT
Camel Racing
This is a spectacular sport and a trip to the races can be one of the most memorable highlights of a visit to Abu Dhabi. Cheer on the camels as they gallop around a specially made track, and marvel at how these seemingly ungainly creatures can reach such high speeds. Races normally take place on weekend mornings, with additional races on public holidays. For a taste of this sport, head to the Al Wathba Camel Race Track (about 45km east of Abu Dhabi on the Al Ain Road), or to the Al Maqam Track near Al Ain. Try to get to the racetracks as early as possible to soak up the atmosphere. Entrance to the races is free.
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NUMBERS
Essential Numbers EMERGENCY SERVICES Police Ambulance Fire Marine emergencies
999 998 / 999 997 996
DIRECTORY ENQUIRIES Etisalat du
181 199
AIRPORT ENQUIRIES Abu Dhabi International Airport Al Bateen Executive Airport Dubai International Airport
+971 2 505 5555 +971 2 449 4521 +971 4 216 6666
TAXI SERVICES Trans AD Tawasul Taxi
+971 2 417 3888 +971 2 673 4444
LIMOUSINE SERVICES National Transport Company Fast Limo
+971 2 622 3300 +971 2 622 0000
ABI DHABI HOSPITALS Mafraq Hospital Sheik Khalifa Medical City Al Noor Hospital branches Burjeel Hospital American European Medical Center
+971 2 501 1111 +971 2 819 0000 800 55 666 +971 2 222 2332 +971 2 445 5477
Al Ain Hospital
+971 3 763 5888
FOREIGN EMBASSIES IN ABU DHABI Embassy of Australia Embassy of United Kingdom Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Embassy of Algeria Embassy of Azerbaijan Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina Embassy of Brunei Darussalam Embassy of Canada Embassy of Chile Embassy of Denmark Embassy of Eritrea Embassy of Finland Embassy of France Embassy of India Embassy of Italy Embassy of Japan
+971 2 401 7500 +971 2 610 1100 +971 2 447 2666 +971 2 444 8949 +971 2 666 2848 +971 2 644 4164 +971 2 448 6999 +971 2 694 0300 +971 2 447 2022 +971 2 441 0104 +971 2 633 1838 +971 2 632 8927 +971 2 813 1000 +971 2 449 2700 +971 2 443 5622 +971 2 443 5696
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Embassy of Malaysia +971 2 448 2775 Embassy of Nigeria +971 2 443 1503 Embassy of Romania +971 2 445 9919 Embassy of Royal Norwegian +971 2 621 1221 Embassy of Royal Thailand +971 2 557 6551 Embassy of Sweden +971 2 417 8800 Embassy of Switzerland +971 2 627 4636 Embassy of Turkmenistan +971 2 449 1088 Embassy of Ukraine +971 2 632 7586 Embassy of Vietnam +971 2 449 6710 Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt +971 2 813 7000 Embassy of the Arab Republic of Syria +971 2 444 8768 Embassy of the Czech Republic +971 2 678 2800 Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka +971 2 631 6444 Embassy of the Federal Republic of Brazil +971 2 632 0606 Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany +971 2 644 6693 Embassy of the Gambia +971 2 643 3955 Embassy of the Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya +971 2 441 8222 Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan +971 2 444 7100 Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran +971 2 444 7618 Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania +971 2 446 2724 Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan +971 2 444 7800 Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain +971 2 665 7500 Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium +971 2 631 9449 Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco +971 2 443 3973 Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia +971 2 444 5700 Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain +971 2 626 9544 Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands +971 2 695 8000 Embassy of the People's Republic of Bangladesh +971 2 446 5100 Embassy of the People's Republic of China +971 2 443 4276 Embassy of the Philippines +971 2 639 0006 Embassy of the Republic of Argentina +971 2 443 6838 Embassy of the Republic of Armenia +971 2 444 4196 Embassy of the Republic of Austria +971 2 694 4999 Embassy of the Republic of Belarus +971 2 445 3399 Embassy of the Republic of Benin +971 2 639 4665 Embassy of the Republic of Greece +971 2 449 2550 Embassy of the Republic of Hungary +971 2 676 6190 Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia +971 2 445 4448 Embassy of the Republic of Iraq +971 2 441 8022 Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan +971 2 449 8778 Embassy of the Republic of Kenya +971 2 666 6300 Embassy of the Republic of Korea +971 2 643 9122 Embassy of the Republic of Lebanon +971 2 449 2100 Embassy of the Republic of Poland +971 2 446 5200 Embassy of the Republic of Senegal +971 2 633 6929 Embassy of the Republic of Somalia +971 2 666 9700 Embassy of the Republic of South Africa +971 2 447 3446 Embassy of the Republic of Sudan +971 2 444 6699 Embassy of the Republic of Tunisia +971 2 681 1331 Embassy of the Republic of Turkey +971 2 410 9999 Embassy of the Republic of Yemen +971 2 444 8457 Embassy of the Russian Federation +971 2 672 1797 Embassy of the Republic of Singapore +971 2 222 2083 Embassy of the State of Kuwait +971 2 447 7146 Embassy of the State of Palestine +971 2 447 1440 Embassy of the State of Qatar +971 2 449 3300 Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman +971 2 446 3333 Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania +971 2 631 3088 Embassy of the United States of America +971 2 414 2200 Embassy of the Uzbekistan +971 2 448 8215
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Fine Dining on Smartphones FOREIGN EMBASSIES IN DUBAI Australian Consulate General & Trade Commission British Embassy Consulate General of Canadian Consulate General of Afghanistan Consulate General of Bulgaria Consulate General of Egypt Consulate General of Eritrea Consulate General of France Consulate General of India Consulate General of Indonesia Consulate General of Iraq Consulate General of Italy Consulate General of Japan Consulate General of Jordan Consulate General of Lebanon Consulate General of Malaysia Consulate General of Mozambique Consulate General of Niger Consulate General of Pakistan Consulate General of Romania Consulate General of South Africa Consulate General of Sri Lanka Consulate General of Sudan Consulate General of Switzerland Consulate General of Tanzania Consulate of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria Consulate General of the Arab Republic of Syria Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran Consulate General of the Libya Consulate General of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Consulate General of the People's Republic of China Consulate General of the Philippines Consulate General of the Republic of Angola Consulate General of the Republic of Djibouti Consulate General of the Republic of Ethiopia Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan Consulate General of the Republic of Korea Consulate General of the Republic of Panama Consulate General of the Republic of Singapore Consulate General of the Republic of Somalia Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey Consulate General of the Republic of Uzbekistan Consulate General of the State of Kuwait Consulate General of the State of Qatar Consulate General of the United States Consulate General of Vietnam Consulate of Norway Consulate of Russia Consulate of the Sultanate of Oman Consulate General of the Republic of Yemen New Zealand Consulate General Palestine General Consulate Royal Consulate General of Denmark Royal Consulate General of Saudi Arabia Royal Thai Consulate General The Royal Consulate of Netherlands Tunisian Consulate
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+971 4 508 7100 +971 4 309 4444 +971 4 404 8444 +971 4 398 8229 +971 4 344 2419 +971 4 397 1122 +971 4 239 9933 +971 4 408 4900 +971 4 397 1222 +971 4 398 5666 +971 4 358 4700 +971 4 331 4167 +971 4 331 9191 +971 4 397 0500 +971 4 397 7450 +971 4 398 5843 +971 4 398 8304 +971 4 266 4642 +971 4 397 3600 +971 4 349 2971 +971 4 397 5222 +971 4 398 6535 +971 4 397 7722 +971 4 329 0999 +971 4 394 0200 +971 4 344 4377 +971 4 357 2227 +971 4 397 2333 +971 4 344 4717 +971 4 397 3972 +971 4 272 6966 +971 4 394 4733 +971 4 220 7100 +971 4 344 7541 +971 4 252 8853 +971 4 269 9111 +971 4 339 7151 +971 4 344 9200 +971 4 337 2538 +971 4 321 9498 +971 4 272 2559 +971 4 331 4788 +971 4 394 7400 +971 4 397 8000 +971 4 396 0444 +971 4 309 4000 +971 4 398 8924 +971 4 382 3880 +971 4 328 5347 +971 4 397 1000 +971 4 397 0131 +971 4 331 7500 +971 4 397 2020 +971 4 348 0877 +971 4 397 9777 +971 4 348 9550 +971 4 440 7600 +971 4 261 7070
DOWNLOAD YOUR APP FOR SMARTPHONES AND TABLETS
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MAP
LUXURY ABU DHABI
Park Hyatt
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Museum
The St. Regis Saadiyat
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Ra
Performing Arts Centre
New Mina Port
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Zayed National Museum
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Saadiyat Island
Port Zayed
T H E
A R A B I A N
G U L F Customs Department Mina Fish Market Heritage Park St.
Dhow Harbpour
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Hala Arjaan Al Maryah Island by Rotana
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Four Seasons
Le Meridien
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Corniche Hospital
12
Lulu Island
Sheraton
Bisrat Fahid Island Iranian Souq
t et 10
The Galleria Tourist Sofitel Club Area Rosewood Abu Dhabi st Ea Le Royal Meridien Mushayarib ad Millennium Hotel Beach Rotana Island Ro he et ic AL MARKAZIYAD Al Reem Abu Dhabi Mall et tre rn re Island Arjaan Rotana o S t t S Fotouh Al KhairC Centre Central Market Firs h 9t Abu Dhabi ed Hilton Souk! y Municipality Za Baynunah k t e ei re AL HOSN Sh MADINAT St ZAYED 9th Hosn eet Palace Str Kh REEM 11th or Marina Al Khalidiyah Mall Family Village Ba . Park St gh Central d Heritage i AL DHAFRAH al QASR EL BAHR Post Office Marina Mall t Village ay s Z e W t Al Wadha Bin d AL MANHAL ree Grand Millenium oa aa t Mall z R S Sea e The St. Regis Sheikh Al Whada Ha AL KHALIDIYA ah Pala ch t i Khalifa AL WAHDA ce R rn Abu Dhabi Fa Hospital Khalidya oad Co Al Al Rawda Rotana Park Sea Palace Hilton Water AL KARAMAH Tower Abu Dhabi AL KHUBEIRAK Emirates Mangrove Reserve h
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29th St
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National Oil Company
Umn al Nar Archeological Site
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AL RAS AL AKHDAR
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25th
18th Street
Palace
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Sheikh Khalifa Park
Al Bateen Airport
Park Rotana Zayed Br
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Hilton Abu Dhabi Exhibition Centre
Hyatt Capital Gate
Old Airport Zayed Garden Sports City
Al K
hale
AL MUZOON
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idge
Maqta Br Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque
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Traders Hotel BAIN AL JESSRAIN
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Armed Forces Officers’ ho K Club & Hotel Sheikh
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Petroleum Institute
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Ritz-Carlton Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri
Hills Abu Dhabi
Ab
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri
OFFICERS CITY Mangrove Village
6th Street MUSSAFAH 14
MUSSAFAH 15
MUSSAFAH 9
8 th Street MUSSAFAH 16
7th Street
ABU DHABI 0m
500
MUSSAFAH 17
MU Muss Bus Te 10th Street
MUSSAFAH 13
MUSSAFAH 11 MUSSAFAH 12
MUS
12th Street
1 km
14th Street 11th Street
MUSSAFAH INDUSTRIAL AREA
Futaisi Island
National Petroleum Construction Company
16th Street 13th Street
Residential City
Dalm ABU DHABI INDUSTRIAL AREA
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SHOPPING M ALLS IN A BU DHABI ABU DHABI MALL Website www.abudhabi-mall.com Telephone +971 2 645 4858
MUSHRIF MALL Website www.mushrifmall.com Telephone +971 2 690 4422
MARINA MALL Website www.marinamall.ae Telephone +971 2 681 8300
DALMA MALL Website www.dalmamall.ae Telephone +971 2 5506111 Ramhan Island
FOTOUH AL KHAIR CENTRE Website www.fotouhalkhair.com Telephone +971 2 681 1130
AL WAHDA MALL Website www.alwahda-mall.com Telephone +971 2 443 7070 Bisrat Fahid Island
THE SOUK – AT QARYAT AL BERI Website www.soukqaryatalberi.com Telephone +971 2 558 1670
AVENUE AT ETIHAD TOWERS Website www.avenueatetihadtowers.ae Telephone +971 2 613 3373
WORLD TRADE CENTRE CENTRAL MARKET – SOUK Website www.wtcad.ae Telephone +971 2 810 7810
BELGHAILAM
ub -D
Road
Ab
u
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THE GALLERIA Website www.thegalleria.ae Telephone +971 2 6166 999
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Dubai
Water World
Ya
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Yas Mall
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MADINAT ZAYED SHOPPING CENTRE AND GOLD CENTRE Website www.madinatzayed-mall.com Telephone +9712 633 3311 Balmmd
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Yas Island
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AL RAHA MALL Website www.al-rahamall.com Telephone +971 2 556 2229
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KHALIDIYAH MALL Website www.khalidiyahmall.com Telephone +971 2 635 4000
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YAS MALL Open in 2014 Website www.aldar.com
Dr Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Island
Yas Links Golf Course Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Viceroy Heliport
As Smmaliyyah Island Al Dana Ladies Beach
Abu
Sas An Nakhl Island Umm Al Nar Power Station
National Oil Company
bi -
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Al Raha Mall Al Raha Beach
Umn al Nar Archeological Site
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Al Raha Gardens Sheikh Khalifa Park
Park Rotana Zayed Br
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Ma
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Airport Road
UMM AL NAR
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Al Forsan Sports resort
BAIN AL JESSRAIN
The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri
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AL MAQTA
Al Ghazal Golf Club
16th
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Al Mafraq Hospital
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LUXURY ABU DHABI 2014 SHOPPING
DINING
SIGHTSEEING
Publisher Thomas Botka, Luxury Cities Media FZ LLC Advertising sales@luxury-cities.com
ARTS
CULTURE
LUXURY A BU DHABI 2014 IS A PREMIUM LIFESTYLE PUBLICATION PUBLISHED BY LUXURY CITIES M EDIA FZ LLC. C ONTINUOUSLY UPDATED, PUBLISHED ONCE OR MORE A YEAR. AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE IN FINE HOTELS.
Design & Layout Absolut Design Studio Group Art director Attila Dubniczki, Míra Judit Szántó Photo Production Luxury Cities Media, Susa Dosa Editor Heike Möckel, Robin Marshall
WWW.LUXURY- CITIES.COM
2014 EDITION ©
All photos used in this publication are by Luxury Cities Media, Photos.com, Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Abu Dhabi Classics, Abu Dhabi Festival, ADACH, ADTA, Anantara, Emirates Place, Etihad Towers, Susa Dosa, Jehad Alzaabia, Jumeriah Group, Kempinski, Masdar City, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, TDIC, Yas Marina Circuit, Volvo Ocean Race Abu Dhabi, www.capitalgate.ae, wwww.emiratesteamnz.com, unless otherwise credited. Luxury Abu Dhabi is a registered trademark. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions there in. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement. All content in this publication is the property of Luxury Cities Media FZ LLC and its suppliers or licensors or contributors and is protected by the UAE and International copyright laws. © Luxury Cities Media FZ LLC. All rights reserved.
Special thanks to the Abu Dhabi Government, the National Media Council, the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, TDIC, the Abu Dhabi Chamber, the Abu Dhabi Police GHQ and Security Media. Dear Guest, if you enjoyed your stay in Abu Dhabi please don't forget to share your experience on Tripadvisor.com or your favorite social media site.
If you like this book, you can buy your own copy online at www.luxury-cities.com. The book weighs 2.65 lbs (1.2 kg), so it could make your luggage heavy, but if you order it, it will arrive at your home as soon as you do. LUXURY CITIES M EDIA FZ LLC twofour54, P.O. Box 77969, Abu Dhabi, UAE, office@luxury-cities.com, www.luxury-cities.com For international inquiries please contact publisher@luxury-cities.com.
WHERE LUXURY MEETS LIFESTYLE
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LUXURY ABU DHABI 2014
S H O P P I N G
D I N I N G
S I G H T S E E I N G
A R T S
LUXURY
C U LT U R E
ABU DHABI 2014
Dear Guest, Marhaba! Welcome to the mystical capital of Abu Dhabi and to our very own Qaryat Al Beri complex. A destination in itself, it consists of the deluxe ShangriLa Hotel, the exclusive Shangri-La Residences, the ultra luxurious Villas by Shangri-La, the vibrant Souk and the stylish Traders Hotel. The Qaryat Al Beri complex, a joint venture between Al Jaber Group and TDIC, was conceived with Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision of being a world class tourism destination. The Al Jaber Group is a multi-faceted group of companies with unlimited capabilities in the fields of construction, logistics, industry, trading, hospitality and services. It is a product of over 40 years of hard work, commitment and determination of its founder His Excellency Obaid Khaleefa Jaber Al Marri, chairman of Al Jaber Group. With successful achievements and outstanding results throughout the years, the company remains focused and continues to be the nation’s largest private employer with over 50,000 employees and an unrivalled portfolio of impressive projects. Al Jaber Group’s road map is of Abu Dhabi’s 2030 plan and the company will continue to be an integral part of this great country’s development and success. Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), established in 2006, is a master developer of major tourism destinations in Abu Dhabi and a key contributor to its economic and cultural progress. Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is Asia Pacific’s leading luxury hotel group and regarded as one of the world’s finest hotel ownership and management companies. With a growing portfolio throughout Asia Pacific, North America, the Middle East, and Europe, the ShangriLa group continues to enliven the brand philosophy of “Shangri-La Hospitality from a caring family.” Inspired by the legendary land featured in James Hilton’s 1933 novel, Lost Horizon, the name Shangri-La encapsulates the serenity and service for which the established hotel brand is renowned worldwide. Ever since its inauguration in 2007, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi continues to welcome guests who will always be treated to traditional Arabian hospitality combined with the warmth, care and exceptional service synonymous with Shangri-La. Thank you once again for being our loyal patrons and we wish you a pleasant visit. With warmest regards, Fatima Al Jaber General Manager Qaryat Al Beri