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
DUBAI
2013
C U L T U RE
LUXURY DUBAI 2013
Shopping Dining Sightseeing Arts CULTURE
Contents A special Dedication Facts about UAE Rulers and Ruling Families Sands of time – UAE history The Emirate of Dubai Dubai Milestones A glimpse of Islam National dress Good to know - General services and do's and don'ts Arabic Hospitality Traditional Emirati food Sportive Festivals Art & Cultural Festivals Shopping Festivals Historical Buildings Modern Buildings Mosques High 5 –The Tallest buildings The Dubai Creek Dubai's bridges The Arabian Gulf Historical Dubai - Places to visit Tour I Bastakia Tour II Shindagha Tour III Walking tour
Dubai 2013
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Prime Minister and Vice President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and ruler of Dubai
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Shopping Dining Sightseeing Arts CULTURE
Contents Dubai – City of Gold Hot and spicy – Dubai spice market A Taste of Arabia Jumeirah Mosque, Sheikh Mohammed Center Natural beauties Art Galleries Parks Water fun Shop until you drop – Dubai Mall Mall of the Emirates Burjuman Wafi Deira City Center Ibn battuta Mall 1001 Nights – Desert Adventures Dine in Style Spots for Nightbirds Horse Racing Motorsport Diving Tennis Golf Yachting Car Rental Airline/Airport Helicopter Golf Map Important contacts and numbers Editorial
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FACTS
Facts about the United Arab Emirates
Location The United Arab Emirates is located along the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders with Saudi Arabia to the west, south and south-east and Oman to the south-east and north-east. The northern and western coast of the UAE lies on the Arabian Gulf, its eastern coast it located at the Indian Ocean. The UAE is confederation, formed of the seven emirates Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quawain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
Arriving by plane - International Airports n Abu Dhabi International Airport - AUH n Dubai International Airport - DXB n Al Maktoum International Airport - DWC n Sharjah International Airport - SHJ n Al Ain International Airport - AAN n Al-Fujairah International Airport- FJR n Ras Al Khaimah International Airport – RKT
Arriving by sea - Cruise Ports tourism The UAE is one of the fastest growing touristic destinations worldwide. It's unique combination of Arabic tradition and heritage, year around sunshine, unbeatable shopping facilities, world-class hotels and a service-oriented safe environment leads to ever growing numbers of visitor.
n Dubai Cruise Terminal Port Rashid n Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal Mina Zayed Port n Port of Fujairah n Passenger Cruise Terminal RAK Khor Port Rask Al Khaimah
Arriving by road – Land checkpoints n Hatta – Omani border n Al Ain/Buraimi – Omani border n Dibba – Omani border (Mussandam) n Al Ghuwaifat – Border to Saudi Arabia
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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 – 800 155 from any UAE phone .................................................................... du – 155 from du mobile
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 2nd of December 1971 83600 km² 7,200,000 Total 947,997 UAE Nationals (Published by Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce in April 2012) Isam UAE Dirham GMT+4 (no daylight saving/ summer time) .ae UAE +971
Public Holidays 2013
climate
The UAE is following the Gregorian calendar as well as the Islamic Hijri calendar. Friday is the weekly day off, schools and most offices remain closed during the 2-dayweekend on Fridays and Saturdays.
The UAE has an arid climate with year around sunshine. Summers are hot and humid, winters warm and at times windy. With day-temperature in the mid 20th and night temperatures between 11 and 15 degree Celsius winters are very pleasant. During summer thermometers will climb into the 40th during the day and remain in the 30th 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 degree in winter to 36 degree in summer. The waters of the Indian Ocean at the East coast are with 18 degree in winter and up to 30 degree in summer slightly cooler.
Holidays – fixed dates New Year's Day 1 st of January UAE National Day 2nd of December Islamic Holidays – approximate dates The Hijri calendar is based on the moon-cycle and therefore the following dates of the Islamic holidays are approximate. The exact dates will be announced following the moonsighting. 24th of January 6th of June 9th of July 8th of August 14th of October 15th of October 4th of November
Prophet Mohammed's Birthday Ascension of the Prophet Begin of Ramadan Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) Arafat (Haj) Day Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) Al Hijara (Islamic New Year's Day)
Topography 80 percent of the UAE's landmass is desert with picturesque sand-dunes. The Hajar mountain range stretches along the Eastern coast and its highest tips reach up to 1.900 meters. Wadis, dry river-beds, are unique natural features. The UAE is home to more than 200 Islands, some of them accessible to visitor.
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History
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 Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Commander of UAE Armed Forces Al Maktoum - ruling family of Dubai
Not long ago what is today the United Arab Emirates was a desert-land, inhabited by nomadic shepherds, settled Bedouins and fishermen. People lived together in tribal structures. In 1904, during the British Protectorate, the tribal structures were recorded by J.G. Lorimer, the author of an official documentation on behalf of the Indian government. About 80000 people were living in 44 tribes, forming five principalities with the Bani Yas tribe as the largest amongst them. The first reference to Bani Yas dates back to 1633. Abu Dhabis ruling family, the Al Nahyan family, is rooted in the Al Bu Fala section of the Bani Yas tribe. Dubais ruling Al Maktoum family hails from the Al Bu Falash section of Bani Yas. Even though most Arabic tribes share common roots, rivalries amongst them were common in the struggle for survival in the harsh desert environment. The control over water resources and territories was crucial for their survival and only those leaders, who could provide and protect those resources, would be accepted by their people and able to remain in power. It was a very simple principle: If a leader would look well after his people, his people would stand behind him in days 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 since 1966 the leader of Abu Dhabi and who became the first President of the United Arab Emirates. Tribal identity and affiliation to the tribe is part of Emiratis identity and tribal names were not long ago part of their rightful names. Social structures in the UAE´s are still based on the tribal affiliations. Even nowadays Emiratis stick to their tribes and in return tribes and tribal leaders take care for their people. The implementation of tribal leadership has changed over the years and occurs in the 21st century in a different way. While a tribal leader in the desert might have distributed the hunting pray, nowadays the leaders distribute the profit of their modern economies in form of general welfare and gracious grants, ensuring a carefree life for all their people. The Rulers of the UAE enjoy a great amount of respect and affection by their own people and residents of the country alike. Even though they live not anymore in tents but in palaces, they are still ruling in their tribal tradition and the doors to their majilis, the Arabic counterpart to Western royal audience halls, are regular open for people to meet their Sheikhs and ask for guidance and help or discuss tribal matters and future plans.
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 Um - ruling family of Um Al Quwain His Highness Sheikh Sound Bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ruler of Umm al-Quwain His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mua'lla, Crown Prince of Umm Al Quwain Al Sharqi - ruling family of Fujairah His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah His Highness Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sarqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah
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History
Sands of time
Š Jumeriah Group
A brief history of the UAE
The United Arab Emirates has a long history and recent finding support the theory that during the early immigration of man from Africa into Asia the region became inhabited. Archaeological findings provide proof of interaction with the outside-world as early as during the Neolithic period about 7,500 years ago. Most probably settlements and relationships were related to copper-trade from the Hajar Mountains. About 4500 years ago camels were domesticated in the southern coastal areas of the Arabian Peninsula. This made a remarkable change in the possibility of man to interact with the outside world. Travel became an option and consequently trading relations started to develop. Remaining of early settlements during the Um al Nar period, about 4000 to 4500 years ago, were found in the lower areas of the Hajar Mountains. Relatively large oasis
towns must have existed. The remaining of a remarkable circular burial tomb can be seen in the Hili archaeological garden in Al Ain. Remaining of pottery and metal items are evidence of the relations with Mesopotamia, Iran, the Indus Valley, Baluchistan and Bactria, the later Afghanistan. In Mesopotamian sources the areas is referred as Magan. The Iron Age about 3300 to 2500 was characterized by the first use of iron and irrigation systems. With sand- and mud-made terraces and channels, the so called falaj, it became possible to distribute water over larger areas of the oasis´ to increase agricultural cultivation. The people no longer relied only on the dates, the natural growing palm-trees in the oasis' would provide, but they gained the means to grow more plants and keep a small life-stock as well. The larger resources of food lead to an almost explosive growth in population.
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During the Late Pre-Islamic area, around 2300 to 17000 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. With the rise of the Sasanian dynasty in Iran most eastern Arabian territories were conquered. In the 6th century Christianity was introduced to the area. Archaeologist found on the Sir Bani Yas Island the remaining of a monastery that belonged to a Nestorian Christian community. Between 630 and 637 first envoys of Prophet Mohamed arrived and used Julfar – today Ras Al Khaima – as a staging port during their conquest of Iran. Julfar started to flourish as a se-port and was over centuries a wealthy port and pearling center. In 892 the port played again a strategic important role during the Abbasid Invasion of Oman. 963 the Buyids, a Shiah-dynasty from Iran, conquered south-eastern Arabia.
The 14th and 15th centuries were the time of great sea-farers. The fairytale figure of “Sindbad the seafarer” shares a lot of features with the region’s most famous sea-man, Ahmed Bin Majid, born 1421 in Ras Al Khaimah. Bin Majid was one of the most knowledgeable navigators and cartographer of his time. He even became famous in the West because he helped the Portuguese Vaso de Gamma to find the sea-way to India. De Gamma used for this first sea passage from Europe to India and Arabic map, at this time unknown to the European seafarers. The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century. At the same time the Quasimi gained strength and build up a fleet of more than 60 strong vessels with almost 20,000 sailors at arms. It must have been during this period of time and due to the ongoing attacks of British boats sailing to India, when the area around Ras Al Khaima became known as the “Pirate Coast”.
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History
Meanwhile the Liwa-based Bani Yas discovered water at the Milh Island, later named Abu Dhabi. The Bani Yas took control over the island and build 1761 the Al Hosn Fort. Soon after Abu Dhabi became an important pearling center and the political leaders of the Al Bu Falah, the Al Nahyan family, moved to Abu Dhabi. The waters off the east coast became at the beginning of the 19th century quit dangerous for the ships of the British East India Company. They were challenged by an armada of almost 60 large deep-sea-dhows, 800 dhows. The legendary pirates of Arabia mobilized a contingent of up to 19,000 men. After a series of bloody sea-battles the British Navy and its Indian troops gained victory and broke down the forces of the Qasimi. In the aftermath of the siege the British Empire signed peace treaties with the local Sheikhs. Those agreements got renewed and were in extended and amended form in place till the final withdraw of the British Empire in 1971. The area, that is today the UAE, was from 1822 onwards known as The Trucial States. The British Empire established a protectorate, assuring the freedom at the sea. The Tribal territories were autonomies, ruled by the local sheikhs. At the beginning of the 19th century members of the Al Bu Falasah tribe, also a branch of the Bani Yas tribe, settled by the creek in Dubai. In 1833 Dubai was formally established by Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti Al Maktoum and the Maktoums became the ruling family of the area. Dubai´s creek provides a safe harbor to trading vessels and provided the area with opportunities to develop sea-trade at a larger scale. Mutual disputes amongst the Sheikhdoms happened regular, quarrels over territories were a common reason for armed conflicts. In 1853 an agreement was signed, to involve the British administration as moderator. Trade was flourishing, the pearling industry in winter and the date-farming provided a humble but steady income and allowed the tribes a relatively stable life. The introduction of cultural pearl by the Japanese stripped the region of its main source of income and triggered in the 1920 a deep economic crisis with severe consequences for the people. The Dubai Creek, over centuries a harbor for small trading vessels and a resourceful 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 Rasheed bin Saed 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 of cargo. In the 1930 oil-companies started their first surveys in the area. At this time the
first planes landed in the area and a first airport was building Sharjah, used as a stopover-point by Imperial Airways on the way to India and Australia. Interrupted during the Second World War the surveys were intensified in the 1950th and with the discovery of oil 1958 everything changed almost overnight. The formally widely unnoticed desert region became a place of global interest. In 1962 the first oil-tanker left Das Island. Nothing would be anymore as it was before. Even though the UAE was the last Gulf-country to discover oil, what happened afterwards seems like a modern fairytale. Changes took place almost overnight. With the discovery of oil international experts came to the region, growing in numbers at the time of petrol-production. Not everybody welcomed the new developments and some fair amount of skepticism and even fear spread amongst the people. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan became 1966 the ruler of Abu Dhabi. He was the leader, people trusted and felt confident with his abilities to lead the tribe in those difficult times full of changes. In his previous appointment as the ruler´s representative in Al Ain he had gained the trust of the tribesmen and had proven his ability to be a wise and caring leader. When the British Empire announce 1968 its intention to withdraw, Sheikh Zayed
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started talks with the neighboring rulers to form an independent state. The rulers of Bahrain and Qatar were included in the talk, however decided to form independent states. An historical agreement to form a federation was reached in July 1971 and on 2nd of December 1971 the state of United Arab Emirates was formed and the flag of the new country was flown for the first time at Jumeirah beach in Dubai. The initial member Emirates are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah Ajman, Um al Quawain and Fujairah. The emirate Ras Al Khaimah 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 traditional and modern. The flag of the Emirates consists of the pan-Arabic colors red, green, white and black, representing according to common understanding the four main historical periods of Islam.
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History
The Emirate of Dubai
© Jumeriah Group
Hatta is geographically located at the border to Oman, about 100 km eastwards of Dubai. It lies within the emirate of Abu Dhabi, however it is still part of the Emirate of Dubai. Territories and borders within the UAE base on tribal structures. It is common, that an emirate has so called “enclaves”, territories lying within another emirate and not physically connected with the main land of the respective emirate. Before the existence of the UAE borders were not finally and ultimately defined. Tribes used to control the territories and wherever members of a tribe settled, this area would be considered territory of this tribe. It happened that some families lived away from their tribal leader´s residence and as a result their remote territories became part of the tribal territories. Exactly this is the case with Hatta. The village became due to its proximity to the Hajar Mountains and its nearby impressive Valleys, the so called Wadis, a popular weekend-retreat and touristic destination.
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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. The city was previous known as „Al Wasl“, the connector. How the current name of „Dubai“ came up, is not ultimately clear.
Several theories exist: The name might derive from a combination of the Farsi words „two brothers“, referring to the two parts of the city, located on both sides of the Creek. Dubai might be as well a reference to a well known and vibrant market called „Daba“. Dubai was considered a smaller version of it. And last not least Dubai might originate in an Arabic world for “money”, since Dubai-people used to be considered wealthy due to their flourishing trade. And very recently clever marketing specialist added a new explanation: It is just a different way of spelling the city´s slogan as a shopping paradise: Dubai – Do buy.
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SIGHTSEEING
Trade and Traders Dubai Milestones
Dubai is and always was a trading place. The 14 kilometer long Dubai Creek, a natural seawater-arm of the Arabian Gulf, was literately a safe harbor for trading vessels since centuries. Seafarers used to break their long exhausting and more often dangerous journeys through the waters of the gulf here. 1833 Maktoum Bin Butti of the Bani Yas tribe settled on the Shindagha Peninsula at the mouth of the Creek, declaring the town's independence from Abu Dhabi. By the late 1870 Dubai had become a principal port at the gulf coast and was known for its vibrant trading places. Full tax exemption, guaranteed to all foreign traders by Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher Al Maktoum in 1894, encouraged many foreign merchants to settle down permanent at the banks of the Creek. The traditional trading places, the souqs, attract till today thousands of traders and shoppers every day. Starting in the 1890th, the Al Bastakiya residential area was build up at the Bur Dubai side of the Creek. It is named after the Bastak region of Iran, from where many of the residents immigrated to Dubai. The traditional houses were reconstructed and nowadays the narrow lanes and wind towers, as well as the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest existing building in Dubai, form the picturesque historical center of the city.
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Commerce was the major backbone of Dubai's growing economy and grew constantly over the decades. After the second world-war the oil-survey in the region was intensified and it was in 1966 that first oil resources were found in Dubai and 1969 the first petrol-dollars were earned. Since it was obvious, that the oil-revenue will be limited, Sheikh Rasheed bin Saeed Al Maktoum paved the path to the further development of Dubai as a trading and commercial hub of the area and focused on laying a sustainable base for an economy, independent form the oil-revenue. After the initial dredging of the creek in the end of the 1950th it was dredged twice again so that it could provide anchorage for ships of up to about 500 tons in the 1970th. In 1967 construction of a first deep-water-port started southwards of the mouth of Dubai's creek. Port Rashid opened 1972 with 15 berths and
was founded with the backing of the ruling family, who provided a start-up capital of 10 Million US dollars. Commercial flights started only seven month later. Emirates became the largest airline in the Region, serving 122 destinations worldwide. Emirates airline played a crucial role in Dubai´s touristic developments. Dubai´s population grew from about 183.000 in 1975 to 2 Million. Buildings were growing like mushrooms and it seems almost unbelievable, that just 50 years ago the city would have hardly a few hundred solid structures. Dubai´s real estate developments made international headlines and with the opening of the real-estate market to foreign investors at the beginning of the 21st century projects like man-made Palm-Islands and the artificial island group “The world” finally established Dubai as a world-class real-estate destination. At times one
was extended later to 35. Large vessels of any size could now call into Dubai. Almost parallel the work for another harbor started about 40 km southwards in Jebel Ali. The 1979 opened port became meanwhile with 67 berths the largest man-made port worldwide. In the surrounding free-trading zone more than 500 international companies settled down. Dubai witnessed a huge growth and international recognition starting from the early 1970th.
third of all large construction cranes, that did exist globally were in Dubai on duty and rumors have it, that the joke with the “crane as the national bird of Dubai” originates somehow form the surrounding of Dubai´s ruler, His Highness Sheik Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Growing numbers of commercial visitors made it necessary to provide appropriate accommodation and build hotels. In 1977 the Carlton Tower was the first formal hotel to open and hundreds of luxury properties were to follow over the coming years. The “Burj Al Arab” hotel, opened in December 1999, became an icon of Dubai and ushered international standards of hospitality into a new quality – never before a hotel of such luxury was build worldwide.
As legend hast it, one day in the late 70th, Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al Maktoum, pointed at a sandy place in the middle of nowhere, about 10 kilometers southwards from the trading places at the creek, and told his attendants, that the future center of his new city will be exactly there. Therefore it would be a good idea, to build a big trading center. The Dubai world Trade Center was opened in 1978 and with its 39 floors and a height of 184 meters it was the tallest building of the Arabian Peninsula at this time. Facilities for Air-traffic were needed to connect Dubai internationally. The first airport started its operation in 1960 with just one sandy runway. Only three years an asphalt runway was completed and with further extension and enhancement towards the end of the 60 international airlines started their regular operation into Dubai. In March 1985 Emirates airline
Growing numbers of residence, visitors and trespassers provided Dubai´s merchants with constant growth and modern shopping facilities established Dubai´s reputation as an international shopping-paradise and the joke of renaming the city form Dubai to “Do buy” tells it all: Shop until you drop. Around 30 years ago the first mall with over hundred shops opened, the Al Ghurair Shopping Center in Deira. Countless world-class shopping facilities followed and so it comes not as surprise that Dubai is home to the world´s largest shopping Center, the Dubai Mall with more than 1200 retail outlets.
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SIGHTSEEING
A glimpse of Islam
Islam is the official religion of the United Arab Emirates. The followers of Islam are called Muslims. Islam is a monotheistic religion and bases on believe that Allah is the one and only God and that Prophet Mohamed (PBUH - Peace be Upon Him) is his last messenger. Allah is the Arabic word for god and refers in Islam to the same god as in Judaism and Christianity. Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) lived from 570 to 632 and starting from an age of 40 till his death he received revelations of god, verbally conveyed by Angel Gabriel. These revelations got after Prophet Mohamed’s (PBUH) death compiled to a single book, the holy book of Muslims, the Quran. The Quran is considered the culmination of goodly revelations and Mohamed (PBUH) as the final messenger of god, following early messengers like Adam, Moses, Ibrahim, David and Jesus. Muslims believe and respect all messengers of good. Jesus is for instance 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 respectful women in the Islamic tradition. As the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran, references to her are in the Quran more than in the New Testament of the Christian bible. Five pillars form the basis of Islam: Shahada is the declaration of Faith in Allah as the one and only god and Mohamed as his last messenger. Salah are the daily prayers, Muslims perform at five specific times of the day that are defined by certain positions of the sun. Zakat are the five percent of one’s wealth that are given as alms. Sawm is the fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The pilgrimage to Mecca, each Muslim shall 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 Prophet Mohamed’s (PBUH) arrival in Medina in 622. The Islamic year consist of 12 lunar months and is about 11 day shorter than the internationally used Gregorian calendar. The weekly day of rest is for Muslims Friday
and therefore this day is the weekend in the Arab world. Islam is with about 1.6 billion followers 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 75 to 90 percent and Shia with 10 to 20 percent of all Muslims.
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Mosques in Dubai 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 the prayer. For male Muslims it is an obligation to perform their prayers together with their brothers in faith in the mosque. In order to find a mosque in the direct vicinity of residences and work-places, mosques are built all over town. 1.5 thousands mosques exist in Dubai; most of them fairly small, however more than 150 Mosques have space for over 1000 worshippers. For Muslim ladies it is not obligator to perform their prayers in a mosque however they are free to do so. Even though from a religious point is perfectly fine for men and woman to pray in separate areas of the same prayer-room, most of the larger mosques in Dubai offer dedicated sections for ladies, allowing more privacy. A typical architectural detail of all mosques are the minarets. In the past the muadhdhin, who calls to the prayer and leads it than, would climb up the minaret and perform his call to prayer form this elevated position in order to be heard over a long distance. Legend has it, that in early days the muadhdin might have even climbed a nearby palm-tree, to allow the call to prayer to be carried over a longer distance.
The Grand Mosque, located in Bur Dubai, close to the rulers court and the Al Fahidi fort, is one of the oldest and with a capacity of 1200 worshippers one of largest mosques in town. Originally build in 1900 it got rebuild and extended in 1998. It's 70 meters high minaret towers the souq area alongside the Dubai creek. Build in tradition traditional Arabic style it consists of 45 small and 9 large domes. Probably the most photographed mosque in Dubai is the Jumeirah Mosque, located not far away from the Union Square at the Jumeirah Beach Road. Build by the late ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Mosque with space for about 1300 worshippers was completed in 1975. The lavish Fatimid architectural style originates in Egypt and makes the mosque one of the most beautiful buildings of Dubai. In the UAE mosques are strictly considered places of worships and non-Muslims shall refrain from entering. In order to give non-Muslims opportunities to visit a mosque and get learn about Islam, the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is running since more than 10 year it´s “Open doors – Open minds” mosque visits, that take place every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:00 in the Jumeirah Mosque. No prior reservation is needed. Guests shall arrive latest at 9:45. Modest dress is required, local attire can be borrowed at the mosque.
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GASTRONOMY
Arabic Hospitality
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Each region hast its own habits. The customs of welcome play amongst various regional practices a crucial role, since it ultimately defines the first impression and as it´s just a generally known, that there is no second chance for a first impression. As a gesture of hospitality in Arabia a guest will be offered coffee and dates. The tradition Arabic coffee is made from grinded coffee, mixed with Safron and sometimes other spices, like cardamom. No milk or sugar is added. Since guest could arrive anytime, coffee shall be always ready and available – a tradition, that is very much alive. The coffee used to be kept in large Dhallas, the tradition metal Arabic coffee pots. In order to keep the coffee always hot, the Dallas used to be placed in a bed of glowing charcoal, placed in a pit in the sand a special wooden box. Since charcoal-boxes might not be the most practical solution in air-conditioned houses, nowadays thermos-pots in the shape of the traditional dallah are commonly used.
serve other guests and always remain alert to refill an emptied cup with another sip of coffee. If the guest wants to signal, that he does not want to get more coffee, he shall shake the cup slightly and hand it back to the host. The slightly bitter taste of the coffee gets compensated by the sweetness of the dates, offered together with the coffee. Dates originate on the Arabian Peninsula were essential for the survival of the Bedouins in the harsh desert environment. The desert inhabitants often had no other source of food than camel milk and dates. Dates are high in fruit sugar and therefore a source of instant energy. Due to their fiber-structure the fruits are gentle to the stomach which makes them to the perfect fastbreaker 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 host an annual date-festival, celebrating this special fruit, by Arabs considered a special and very precious gift of god to them.
© Jumeriah Group
Once guest arrives, the host will offer the coffee in a small cup without handle. There is really an art of offering the coffee: The host will usually hold a staple of cups in his right hand and pour with his left hand the coffee. It is considered a severe affront, to fill up the cup completely. Only one third shall be filled up. The host will offer than with his right hand the cup to the guest, who shall also receive it with his right hand. The hosts will than
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SIGHTSEEING
Historical Buildings in Dubai
The “birthplace” of Dubai is the Creek. So it´s not surprising to find the majority of historic buildings in the proximity of the sea-water arm. Any structure older than 40 year is in Dubai already considered “historical”. About 160 residential buildings, forts and traditional trading places have been restored so far by the Architectural Heritage Department of Dubai. The Dubai of the early 19th century was not more than a small settlement, consisting of a small number of huts, made from palm leaves shattered around a fort and fenced by a city wall of 600 meters length. Sufficient construction material was almost not accessible. The closest mountain-range from where rocks and stones could have been acquired lies more than 100 km across the desert. Without roads and with camels as the only means of transportation not a realistic option. There was no other solution than to make use of the limited sources at hand, the coral-stones, found at the sea-shore. The oldest solid structure of town is the Al Fahidi Fort, built in several phases. The 1787 erected watchtower is believed to be the oldest existing building of Dubai. The fort was used as stronghold and residence of Dubai´s rulers and hosts since 1971 the Dubai Museum. A few watchtowers made up the defense-line of Dubai
in the late 19th century. Still existing are the mud-bricked Burj Nahar watchtower in Bur Dubai, built in 1870, and the Shindagha watch tower, built 1890. With more merchants settling down permanently at the Bur Dubai side of the Creek, the rulers moved their residences to the close by but still a bit more private Shindagha area. The most significant buildings were the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum house, the residence of the former ruler, and the neighboring Sheikh Obaid bin Thani House, built 1916. Both former residences are now museums. The development of the Bastakia residential area started towards the end of the 19th century. The around 60 one and two-storey buildings commerce of spacious court-yards with the family-rooms built around. Unique features are the square-shaped windtowers, the Barjil, becoming a signature element of the regions traditional architecture. The towers are designed to utilize thermal effects and literally “catch” the wind in order to to use the fresh air for cooling. A wind-tower can create a cooling effect of up to 10 degree Celsius. The buildings got over the recent years re-build and host now small art-galleries, coffee-shops and restaurant. A special treasure of
LUXURY DUBAI
Bastakia is the only remaining part of the Dubai's city wall, discovered during reconstruction work.
joined the Ahmadiya School in 1955. Both buildings were renovated and are accessible to visitors.
1890 Mattar bin Saeed bin Muzaaina build close by the gold-market his small two-room residence. 1910 Sheikh Ahmed bin Dalmouk, the most famous pearl-trader of town, became the new owner. Sheikh Ahmed extended the building and added an adjoining structure, where he opened 1912 Dubai's first school that was in use till the 1960th. Amongst the up to 800 pupils, was even Dubai´s current ruler, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rasheed Al Maktoum, who
Dubais markets, the souqs were in the beginning not more than small stalls, lined up close to the anchorplaces of the trading vessels. With growing trade the stalls became more solid structures, the shops got aligned in small alleys and wooden roofs were added to provide some shape. Dubai´s souqs are still the vibrant colorful trading places, they have been for hundreds of years – carefully renovated they are still Dubai´s most authentic and precious treasures.
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SIGHTSEEING
Modern buildings in Dubai
The sky is the limit for Dubai´s ambitious plans. It's modern architecture gives vibrant evidence. With Skyscrapers of never before reached heights the city collected one world-record after the other. The Burj Al Arab hotel, opened in December 1999, was not just Dubai's Millennium coup, as the first seven star hotel of the world it raised hospitality standards to a complete new level. Designed in the form of a giant sail the hotel stands 321 meter high on a small island off the coast of the Arabian Gulf. Like no other building it became the icon of Dubai and helped the emirate to boost its image as a world-class luxury destination. The 2009 completed Burj Khalifa is with 829 meters the tallest structure of the world. The Burj
LUXURY DUBAI
Khalifa complex with the Dubai mall, the largest shopping center of the world, and the surrounding residential and office towers is the cities new vibrant center. Old Town, an adjoining residential complex, combines the design of traditional architecture with luxury lifestyle. The Sheikh Zayed road with its high rise buildings is an eloquent example for architectural diversity: Not two skyscrapers look alike, and the once highest building, the World Trade Center Tower looks with its 149 meters like a dwarf amongst giants. Build in 1978 it was the first high rise building on the Arabian Peninsula. The Dubai Gate is the 21 st century interpretation of a giant entry to the new Financial Center of Dubai and stands for the cities ambition to become the financial hub of Arabia. Dubai's original coast-line is 60 km long. Not much and quit challenging, to find a reasonable way to dedicate it for commercial, residential and touristic development. Dubai's approach was once again unique: If there is not enough coast-line – just create more coast-line. With the development of the largest man-made islands Dubai pioneered global waterfront projects. The Palm Islands Jumeirah, Jebel Ali and Deira together with various island developments, like the archipelago “The world”, will ultimately extend Dubai´s shoreline to 1500 km. In conjunction to this new plans Dubai opened its real estate market to international investors and initiated an unprecedented building boom
at the beginning of the new millennium. The vision became reality – beautiful residential villas, world class hotels - like the fairytale-like Atlantis theme hotel - opened on the Palm Jumeirah. Dubai population exploded over the recent years and new residential areas grew like mushrooms all over town and in the suburbs inland. Jumeirah is since the 90 th the synonym for luxury lifestyle. The lavish villas along the Beach road are home for Emirati families. With the Dubai Marina and the Jumeirah Beach Residence a vibrant international community with plenty of small restaurants and boutiques was build up alongside the southern beaches of Jumeirah. In 2012 the Princess Tower with its 101 storey’s and a total height of 413 meters became the tallest residential building of the planet. Madina Jumeirah - the city of Jumeirah - is the cities Arabian resort, a unique complex of Arabian-styled luxury hotels and a traditional designed shopping area, the Souk Madinat. The hotels Al Qasr – The Palace - and Meena A´Salam – The Harbor of Peace – are breathtaking examples of Dubai´s success-story: A 21 st century Arabian fairytale.
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shopping GUIDE
Luxury on the map Dubai shopping guide
LUXURY DUBAI's TOP SELECTION
Men accessory www.breitling.com
Audemars Piguet Mall of The Emirates Audemars Piguet was the brainchild of two young men passionately dedicated to fine watch making, Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet. In 1875, they decided to unite their skills in order to design and produce watches with complex mechanisms in the Vallée de Joux, the cradle of Haute Horlogerie. Audemars Piguet is the oldest fine watchmaking manufacturer never to have left the hands of its founding families. This gives the company an independent streak that allows it to go its own way and follow its own unique vision. Call: +971 4 341 1121 Blumarine The Dubai Mall Designer Anna Molinari and her late husband, Gianpaolo Tarabini, started the Blumarine line in 1977 in Carpi, Italy, where the company’s headquarters are still located today. The brand now falls under Blufin SpA, the Molinari-owned holding company that encompasses Blumarine’s sibling label Blugirl, younger offshoots Miss Blumarine and Blumarine Baby, and the Anna Molinari label. Call: +971 4 339 8896 Breitling Deira City Center A specialist of technical watches, Breitling has played a crucial role in the development of the wrist chronograph and is a leader in this complication. The firm has shared all the finest moments in the conquest of the skies thanks to its sturdy, reliable and highperformance instruments. The world’s only major watch brand to equip all its models with chronometer-certified movements, the ultimate token of precision, Breitling is also one of the rare companies to produce its own mechanical chronograph movement, entirely developed and manufactured in its own workshops. This family business is also one of the last remaining independent Swiss watch brands. Call: +971 4 295 4109
Cartier Mall of The Emirates Founded in 1847 by Louis Francois Cartier, the family-run Cartier firm has expanded to become an international jewellery house with a reputation second to none, and for generations the House of Cartier has enjoyed the gift of sophisticated expertise, attracting customers from around the world in search of distinction. Call: +971 4 395 1000 Dolce & Gabbana Ibn Battuta Mall Established in 1985, Dolce & Gabbana is one of today's leading international luxury goods groups. The two founders, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, have always been the creative and stylistic source of the two brands, Dolce & Gabbana and D&G Dolce & Gabbana, and the originators of a growth strategy based on balanced development and focus on the core business. Dolce & Gabbana is the Dream: a luxury brand that is distinguished by its stylistic originality combined with the superior sartorial content of its creations. The strong identity of the Dolce & Gabbana brand has evolved over the years while always remaining faithful to its inherent standards. An unmistakable style, the expression of unconventional luxury which, season after season, combines strong innovation with the powerful Mediterranean flavour of its origins. A brand whose essence lies in its contrasting features. Call: +971 4 330 8810 Ermenegildo Zegna The Dubai Mall Ermenegildo Zegna's flagship Middle East boutique has just opened at The Dubai Mall. 580 square metres in size, it is the largest Zegna boutique in the Middle East and carries four lines of Zegna: Couture, Upper Casual, Zegna Sport, and Accessories. Designed by aware-winning architect Peter Merinio, it is his fourth Zegna boutique in the world after Milano, 5th Avenue in New York City, and Shinjuku Tokyo. Call: +971 4 330 8811
“Some people think luxury is the opposite of poverty. It is not. It is the opposite of vulgarity.” Coco Chanel
Jaeger-LeCoultre Deira City Center Rivoli Prestige The Rivoli Prestige concept was developed to attract customers who appreciate the world’s finest watch brands. The store is an invitation to luxury with a distinct ambience, subtle tones of elegance and a warm atmosphere. The exquisite collection features some of the world’s most sought-after timepiece brands such as Brequet, Blancpain, Glashutte Original, Jaquet Droz, Omega, Zenith, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Carl F. Bucherer as well as luxury communication instruments from Vertu. Call: +971 4 295 4496 Mont Blanc Al Jaber Optical The Dubai Mall Al Jaber Optical has been associated with quality and service for the last 1 years. The have a network of branches covering Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah. They have a wide range of vision care products such as sunglasses and optical frames. Some of the brand names include Chanel, Gucci, Giorgio Armani and Mont Blanc. They also have a wide range of contact lenses from international companies such as Bausch. Call: +971 4 339 8100 Niles & McIntosh Ibn Battuta Mall Harman House The consumer division of harmanhouse oversees the sales, marketing and distribution of JBL, Infinity and Harman Kardon speakers, home theatre packages, audio components, as well as a range of microphones and headphones from AKG and Inter-Connect and speaker cables. Located all over the UAE, it boasts 10 showrooms located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Festival City, Deira City Centre, Al Nasser Square, IBN Battuta Mall, Mirdiff City Centre, Dubai Mall; Abu Dhabi Marina Mall and Sharjah City Centre, as well as its shop-in-shop concept in
Plug-ins, Sharaf DG, Emax and Jumbo as its strong and active dealer network. The professional systems division of harmanhouse retails and distributes speakers, amplifiers, mixing consoles, microphones, sound processors, intelligent lights, touch-screen automation and projectors, as well as offering audio/ video, lighting and automation solutions of the state-of-the-art audio systems for clubs, hotels, cinema theatres, auditoriums, etc. As the specialist in providing integrated audio/visual solutions for the complete home, harmanhouse offers an elaborate range of the world class home theatres and sound systems, hi-tech audio components, weatherized outdoor speakers, ambience-building lighting systems and breathtaking Plasma TVS. With a dazzling choice of the world’s best known brands – JBL, harman/Kardon, Infinity, Mafco, Samsung, AKG, Niles & McIntosh. harmanhouse is all you need to convert your dream home into the perfect movie theatre for premiering the latest Hollywood blockbusters, or an auditorium for a sound-stirring musical concert. Call: +971 4 341 4130 Pandora Deira City Center The brand’s feminine and versatile collection is reflected in its customisable charm bracelets and lines of rings, earrings and necklaces made from silver and gold of the highest quality. All pieces are handcrafted, many embedded with diamonds or precious gemstones. Call: +971 4 239 5203 Persol Yateem Optician Mall of The Emirates We have an elaborate infrastructure for production and servicing units that comprises of a professional management team and dispensing opticians. All our showrooms have eye clinics with fully equipped state of art optical instruments that are handled by our qualified
optometrists, and you can have your eyes accordingly tested for vision correction. Yateem Optician deals with some of the world’s leading designer optical ranges like Cartier, Persol, Police, Prada, Chanel, Christian Dior, Miu Miu, Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, Revo, D & G, Luxottica, Silhouette, Versace, Versus, Burberry and many more. +971 4 434 0266 Prada Mall of The Emirates Sophisticated and trendsetting, Prada’s inspiring concept of uncompromised quality and constant innovation has endured for nearly a hundred years. Prada’s history dates back to 1913, when Mario Prada, Miuccia Prada’s grandfather, opened a shop of luxury goods in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an architectural landmark in the heart of Milan. In 1919, Prada was appointed official supplier to the Italian royal family. The search for rare and valuable materials and sophisticated manufacturing techniques became part of Prada’s DNA, and the constant quest for innovation are the values that Mario Prada wanted to pass on and which the following generations have been able to preserve and develop. Uncompromised quality is therefore the byword that applies to each and every Prada product. The Prada store at The Mall of the Emirates synthesizes these values and showcases the latest and most original men’s and women’s RTW, handbags and accessories, footwear, eyewear and fragrances collections. Call: +971 4 304 9700 Swarovski Ibn Battuta Mall For over 100 years, Swarovski, the brand synonymous with ingenuity, poetry, and technology, has developed its supreme mastery of precision-cutting to become the world’s leading produce rof cut crystal, genuine gemstones, and created stones. The family company has remained fully independent since its foundation in Wattens, Austria, in 1895.
Over the course of its history, Swarovski has produced innovations and inspired creative trends infields as varied as jewellery, fashion, accessories, lighting and interior design, culture, and industrial research and development. The company draws its richness of expression from the cultural heritage of central Europe and its talent for forging links between the arts, science, and economics. Today, the name of Swarovski stands for exacting workmanship, quality, and creativity all over the world. Call: +971 4 295 4109 Vertu The Dubai Mall Vertu is the pioneer and leading manufacturer of handcrafted mobile phones for the luxury market. Vertu was established in 1998 and unveiled its first product in 2002 to answer the demands of its discerning customers who only demand the best in everything they buy. Each Vertu handset is a result of obsessive attention to detail and is handcrafted by experts in Vertu's workshop in the United Kingdom. Vertu also offers clients the unique Concierge service. One press of the discretely positioned Concierge key on the phone offers access to a dedicated team of lifestyle managers, who aim to help Vertu users maximize their valuable free time. The boutique in Dubai Mall features the entire Vertu collection including its classic Signature collection, inspired by the tradition of watch-making, the Ascent, inspired by the aesthetic design and material of luxury sports cars and the Constellation, designed for the world traveler. Call: +971 4 339 8531
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shopping GUIDE
Top Women’s Fashion
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1. Harry Winston watch www.harrywinston.com 2. Emporio Armani handbag www.armani.com 3. Varga Design Web leaf www.vargadesign.hu 4. la prairie Platimum www.laprairie.com 5. Arabian Nights Eau de Parfum www.thearabiannights.com
LUXURY DUBAI
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1. Alberto Guardiani shoes www.albertoguardiani.com 2. Ermenegildo Zegna bag – Trofeo collection www.ezfashion.hu or www.zegna.com 3. Herrera CH Men www.carolinaherrera.com 4. Breguet watch ówww.breguet.com 5. Louis Vuitton sunglasses www.louisvuitton.com
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LUXURY DUBAI
Cartier
Prada
Founded in 1847 by Louis Francois Cartier, the family-run Cartier firm has expanded to become an international jewellery house with a reputation second to none, and for generations the House of Cartier has enjoyed the gift of sophisticated expertise, attracting customers from around the world in search of distinction.
Sophisticated and trendsetting, Prada’s inspiring concept of uncompromised quality and constant innovation has endured for nearly a hundred years. Prada’s history dates back to 1913, when Mario Prada, Miuccia Prada’s grandfather, opened a shop of luxury goods in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an architectural landmark in the heart of Milan. In 1919, Prada was appointed official supplier to the Italian royal family. The search for rare and valuable materials and sophisticated manufacturing techniques became part of Prada’s DNA, and the constant quest for innovation are the values that Mario Prada wanted to pass on and which the following generations have been able to preserve and develop. Uncompromised quality is therefore the byword that applies to each and every Prada product. The Prada store at The Mall of the Emirates synthesizes these values and showcases the latest and most original men’s and women’s RTW, handbags and accessories, footwear, eyewear and fragrances collections.
Mall of The Emirates Call: +971 4 395 1000 www.cartier.com
Mall of The Emirates Call: +971 4 304 9700 www.prada.com
Blumarine Designer Anna Molinari and her late husband, Gianpaolo Tarabini, started the Blumarine line in 1977 in Carpi, Italy, where the company’s headquarters are still located today. The brand now falls under Blufin SpA, the Molinariowned holding company that encompasses Blumarine’s sibling label Blugirl, younger offshoots Miss Blumarine and Blumarine Baby, and the Anna Molinari label. The Dubai Mall Call: +971 4 339 8896 www.blumarine.com
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ART
Dubai Art
Art Galleries in Dubai Walls Art Gallery www.4walls-dubai.com - art gallery in Al Quoz displaying Middle East and international modern art. Behind Gargash Motors, see location map, tel +971-43388892, email info@4walls-dubai.com . Opened 2007? Al Abbar Art Gallery Dubai www.alabbarart.com - two locations, Gulf Towers tel +971-4-3375537 and Jumeirah Beach Center tel +971-4-3449207 (the blue and glass shopping center on Jumeirah Beach Road). Sells oil paintings, lithographs, limited edition prints, and posters. Opening hours 0900-1300 and 1600-2100 in the Jumeirah Center and 0800-1300 and 1600-2000 in Gulf Towers. Art Sawa Gallery www.artspace-dubai.com - 9th Floor, Fairmont Hotel, tel +971-4-3325523, Sheikh Zayed Road, email info@ artspace-dubai.com . Open 1000-1400 & 1500-2100 Saturday to Thursday during Ramadan. Promotes art from national and international contemporary artists. Intend to offer exhibitions every 3 weeks. Ayyam Gallery www.ayyamgallery.com, Al Quoz near the other art galleries in Al Quoz. Syrian art. Dubai opening 10am Sat 31 May 2008 (with live artists flown in from around the world), tel +971-4-3236242. There's a gallery also in Damascus, Syria. B21 Progressive Art Gallery opposite Spinneys warehouse, Al Quoz 3, +971-4-3403965, b21gallery@yahoo.com , no website. Bagash Art Gallery www.bagashartgallery.com - tel +971-43515311. Opened in early 2006 to showcase southeast Asian Art.
Basta Art Cafe Bastikiya, tel +971-4-3626100 (or +971-43535071?), a few trinkets for sale. Another delightful restored building with large shaded outdoor area to drink your tea. Open Sat-Thu 1000-2200. Boutique 1 www.boutique1.com - new shop at The Walk JBR, Dubai Marina, tel +971-43304555, email style@boutique1.com open 06 November 2008. Includes Boutique 1 Art Gallery, Boutique 1 Books, Boutique 1 Cafe, Boutique 1 Spa, Boutique 1 Living (men's and women's fashion), Boutique 1 Magazine. Manager Fadi Mogabgab, a Lebanese curator. New exhibitions each month of art including paintings, photography, sculpture, coffee (ok, maybe the coffee doesn't change). January 2009 - Joanna Andraos (artist in attendance), February 2009 Joan Miro & Alexander Calder, March 2009 Marwan Sahmarani (artist attending), April 2009 Akri Kuroda, May 2009 Andonov, June 2009 Michel Pelloille. First Boutique 1 shop at the Boulevard (upper level), Jumeirah Emirates Towers. Boutique 1 fashion also for sale (discounted) at Dubai Outlet Mall in their shop "The Outlet" Christie's Dubai office 7, 1 st floor, building 2, Emaar Business Park, Sheikh Zayed Road, PO Box 48800, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, tel +9714-3615323, fax +971-4-3615324, open Sunday-Thursday, 1000-1800. Managing Director - Michael Jeha. Opened office in April 2005 so all the rich people in Dubai could give them their surplus cash. Creative Arab - see Meem Art Gallery information. Carbon 12 Gallery www.carbon12dubai.com - art gallery in Marina View Towers ground floor, Dubai Marina, email info@carbon12dubai.com , tel +971-50-4644392.
Design People Mazaya Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road web www.designpeopledubai.com, furniture shop with paintings by Imad Bechara (Lebanon). Clever looking website. Emorarts An online art gallery at www.emorarts. com, open 24/7 (of course), delivery by DHL. Based in Dubai, established by Ian Mercer and Ian Mulville. Eye Gallery Bastakia, small pleasant gallery with avantgarde exhibitions from resident artists in Dubai , especially Iranian art. Open 09002000 (1000-1900 during Ramadan). Tel +971-4-3534833, email eye_g@eim.ae , no website. Five Green www.fivegreen.com - behind Aroma Garden Cafe, Oud Metha Road, Bur Dubai, tel +971-4-3364100. Art, music, clothes and magazines for modern urban living. Four Seasons Ramesh Gallery Bastakia tel +971-4-3536881, fax +9714-3536177, www.fourseasonsgallery. com (under construction Oct 2006). A commercial establishment selling a wide range of teapots, old photos and other vaguely arty looking objects, but not many paintings. Branches also in Mall of the Emirates, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Heritage Village. Gallery 1 Souk Madinat in Jumeirah and Mall of the Emirates. Same place as Middle East Arts in Souk / Souq Madinat. Sells photographs you can't make yourself but wish you could. Web www.g-1.com.
Gallery 76 in DIAC, tel +971-4-3444398, opened January 2005. Opening hours Sat-Wed 0900-1700, Thu 0900-1600. Showcasing contemporary art from national and international artists. Godolphin Gallery Nadd / Nad Al Sheba racetrack. It's not art in the normal sense of the word but worth a visit to see the impressive collection of trophies won by horses from Godolphin Stables (that belong to the Maktoum family - Dubai's ruling family). Open daily 0900-1700 and closes 2000 on race nights (mornings only during Ramadan?), web www.godolphin.com/gallery.asp. Green Art Gallery www.gagallery.com - near Dubai Zoo between Jumeira Beach Road and Al Wasl Road, villa 23, street 51, Jumeirah, tel +971-4-3449888, fax +3447449, PO Box 25711, Dubai, UAE, email greenart@ emirates.net.ae , www.gagallery.com. Open Sat-Thu 0930-1330 & 1630-2030. During Ramadan, hours are 0930-1500. Middle Eastern art and collectibles. Guy Flichy Gallery (not Guy Flichey Gallery) - www. guyflichygallery.com, Villa 40, Al Bastakiya, mobile tel +971-50-5415392, email guy@guyflichygallery.com . Open late 2008? Majlis Gallery www.majlisgallery.com - near Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi roundabout, Bastikia (Bastakiya), Bur Dubai, tel +971-4-3536233. Well known as it's been open for years (since 1970). Pleasant courtyard to sit in and drink your bottle of water after walking around.
LUXURY DUBAI
Majlis gallery
Mondo Arte gallery
A haven for artists and art lovers The Majlis Gallery grew out of a love affair between an expatriate lady and a very special house. Alison Collins came to Dubai in 1976 to work as an interior designer. She fell in love with the country, especially with the architecture and the ambiance of the old windtower houses in the Bastakia. In 1978, with the help of two Iranian tea importers and an Egyptian curtain maker, Alison and her husband secured the lease on villa number 19, Bastakia, Bur Dubai. Here, over the next ten years, they raised their three young children and played host to many informal soirees in their ‘majlis', hence the name, introducing artists both professional and amateur to a somewhat culturally bereft community.
Mondo Arte is a Gallery in the Mall of the Emirates rising out of the sun of Dubai. Enthusiastically boasts 2000 square feet of exhibition space displaying stunningly beautiful contemporary artworks, fully furnished with Philippe Starck's furniture, this modern and New York style gallery made Mondo Arte to be the first in the Gulf for its distinguished design and style. Mondo Arte carries variety of artwork, decorative with different sizes and type, from abstract to Landscape. Mondo Arte is dealing with corporate projects and commercial artworks and sculptures with art interior consultation services. Mondo Arte has done few high profile projects around the region.
Al Musalla Roundabout, Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, PO Box 42885, Dubai, UAE. Tel: +97 14 3536233 Fax: 9714 3535550 majlisgallery@gmail.com www.themajlisgallery.com
Meem Gallery www.creativearab.com - Al Quoz, easy to find if you know how, in warehouse #1 between Marina Furniture and Max Garage on Umm Suqeim Rd (the one that goes from Al Khail Rd to the Burj Al Arab). Difficult if coming from the other Al Quoz art galleries. Tel +971-4-3477883, info@creativearab.com . Looks closed if there's no exhibition but if you appear lost, and someone's there, they may let you in. Middle East Arts in Souk Madinat in Jumeirah - Umm Suqeim/Um Suqqeim. Tel +971-43686057, web www.middleeastarts.com. Same place as Gallery 1. Miraj Islamic Art Centre Jumeirah Beach road, Jumeirah 3 (in the old University of Wollongong building), tel +971-4-3941084 or +971-4-3941094. Mondo Arte The Galleria, second floor, Mall of the Emirates, tel +971-4-3413001. An eclectic collection of paintings from local and international artists. Original and Unique Art Gallery Al Wasl Road, tel +971-4-3948808, email info@onuart.com , web www.onuart. com. Established in March 1999 for exhibiting European and North American art. Art Institute added February 2005. Open 1000-2100 daily (maybe not Fri mornings though). Ostra Gallery Al Fahidi roundabout, Bastakia, Bur Dubai, tel + 971-4-3539441, email ostra@emirates. net.ae , no website. Small gallery opened in Sep 2004, displays Arabic paintings and calligraphy.
Petals a trinket shop in The Courtyard which doesn't sound like much but really is worth a visit if you're in The Courtyard, just to see what an astounding array of household goods it is possible to buy - Edwardian, Victorian, Baroque, Younameit, etc. This is not an understatement. Tel +971-43473003, email petals@emirates.net.ae . Picasso Gallery Satwa, near the Iranian Hospital, tel +9714-3450996, email picassogallery@hotmail. com . Picture framing shop but they sell a few pictures and large clay pots. Port of Call Gallery Oriental antiques, furniture, and art gallery for Orient Fine Art LLC Dubai, location 4th floor of the Al Attar Business Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, established in Dubai October 2000, tel +971-4-3326006, email info@portofcallgallery.com, website www.portofcallgallery.com. Sahary Gate walk in through what appears to be a garage door into a welcoming restored courtyard with tourist office, gallery, resident calligrapher, conference room and coffee shop. During Ramadan they have an Iftar Buffet on the roof with a cultural presentation for 180 dhs per person. They also do seminars on UAE culture, tours of the UAE, and language courses. Bastakia House No 14, tel +971-4-3535660, fax +971-4-3539747, www.saharygate.com, PO Box 44911, Dubai, UAE. Sharjah Art Museum www.sdci.gov.ae - Bait Al Serkal, Al Shuwaiheyn area, Sharjah, near the Old Souk/Bazaar in the Arts Area of Sharjah. Tel +971-6-5688222, basement parking available. Admission free, open 0900-1300 & 1700-2000 except Mon (closed) & Fri (1700-2000 only). Wed afternoon for ladies
Mall of the Emirates 2nd Level, the Galleria, L17 Phone: +971 4 341 3001 Fax: +971 4 341 3002 mdarte@emirates.net.ae Website: www.mondoarte.net
only (young children ok). Check hours on public holidays. Ramadhan hours mornings only. Permanent collection belongs to the Ruler of Sharjah - Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi. Regular exhibitions, lectures, workshops etc. Established in 1995, moved to new building in 1997. Visit it to realise Sharjah is not just about dodgy car parts and strict dress codes. Dubai has nothing like this. At least, not yet. The Courtyard www.courtyard-uae.com - near Spinneys warehouse, Al Quoz 3, tel +971-43475050. A collection of art galleries (well, one), artists, exhibitions, art supplies, furniture, and a cafe/coffee shop. Pleasant place to visit. Don't leave without having a look in "Petals". The Empty Quarter www.theemptyquarter.com - DIFC Gate Village, Building 02, PO Box 509997, Dubai. A new (in 2009) art gallery that has a focus on fine art photography. The Jam Jar www.thejamjardubai.com (changed from www.jamjardubai.com) - a company that organises art related activities, for individual or corporate clients. They have a DIY art studio (with art supplies, coffee and music) and art gallery. They'll even come to you for an event. Tel +971-43417303, email gallery@thejamjar.com , location is street 17a in Al Quoz, behind the Modern Bakery and Dubai Garden Center near Mall of the Emirates (exit 39 on Sheikh Zayed Road). Open hours Monday to Thursday 10am - 9pm, Friday 2pm - 9pm, closed Sundays. The Mojo Gallery www.themojogallery.com - Unit 33, Al Serkal Avenue, Street 8, Al Quoz 1 (one block behind Times Square), tel +971-43236367. Opening date 03 November 2009
with an exhibition by Gail Catlin from South Africa running 04-25 November 2009. Mojo Gallery focuses on highlighting emerging international artists. The Red Gallery www.theredgallery.net - Villa 833b, Al Wasl Rd (Iranian Hospital Road), after Umm Suqeim Spinneys heading in Jebel Ali direction. Tel +971-4-3955811, fax +9714-395-5812, email theredgallery@eim.ae . Gallery specialising in contemporary Asian fine art. Opened late 2006 / early 2007? The Third Line www.thethirdline.com - between The Courtyard and Spinneys warehouse, sign is a bit obscure, Al Quoz 3, tel +971-43411367, www.thethirdline.com. They've done a good job of turning a warehouse into a gallery. Total Arts The Courtyard, near Spinneys warehouse, Al Quoz 3, tel +971-4-3475050. Opened 1996, specialising in Middle East influenced art and artists. Owner Dariush Zandi. Total Design The Courtyard, near Spinneys warehouse, Al Quoz 3, tel +971-4-3475050. Photographic studio also owned by Dariush Zandi. XVA www.xvagallery.com - behind the Majlis Gallery, near Dubai Museum, Bastakia, Bur Dubai, tel +971-4-3535383, email xva@ xvagallery.com . Cafe and guesthouse accommodation in a restored building, rooms are 700-800 dhs per night. Gallery open 0900-2100 Sat-Thu. Movie nights in splendid courtyard retaurant on Wed nights from 8 pm when temperature is cool enough (approx Nov-Mar), sometimes the director or producer will be there to talk about the movie. H2O dhow cruise also part of their offerings.
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RESTAURANT GUIDE
The Gourmet Metropolis Dubai
Where Luxury M eets Lifestyle
LUXURY DUBAI
Al Mahara
KGrill
Oyster Shell Simply the finest seafood in the world. You will feast on delicious contemporary seafood prepared by our award winning chefs, while watching a wide selection of exotic fish in what has to be the most beautiful aquarium in Dubai. Lunch: A La Carte 3-course set menu starting at AED 375 per person Dinner: A La Carte Entertainment: Background music Capacity: Restaurant – 74 persons Private Dining Rooms – 12 to 18 persons Children below 12 years are welcome during lunch time only 0-3 years: free of charge 4-11 years: 50% discount on a la carte and set menus (no discount on kids menu and beverages) Above 12 years: full rate applies
Restaurant... in a different way Epicurean delights with dishes grilled to perfection and magnificent à la carte, KGrill will impress the most discerning guests. Exquisitely prepared traditional local dishes with a Mediterranean flair. KGrill brings you regional's favorites with a European twist. The subtle, smoky aromas and juicy cuts bursting with flavour at this specialty grill restaurant will keep you coming back for more. From the Charcoal grill, Al Forno wood oven and BBQ smoke hickory, to Tandoori and Rotisserie. Order a melt-in-your-mouth deliciously, the grilled Hammour, a KGrill local favorite! Features BBQ Night Location KGrill is located on the 2nd floor of the hotel Kempinski Mall of the Emirates
Advance reservations are essential and can be made via the following: Telephone: +971 4 301 7600 Fax: +971 4 301 6076 Email: BAArestaurants@jumeirah.com Location: Ground floor, Burj Al Arab
Timings: Lunch: 12:30 to 15:00 Last food order at 14:30 Dinner: 19:00 to 00:00 Last food order at 23:30 Cuisine: Seafood
Email Contact Restaurants.Malloftheemirates@Kempinski.Com Telephone +971 4 409 5999 Opening Hours Breakfast: Monday - Thursday, Sunday 6:30 - 11:00 Friday - Saturday 6:30 - 12:00 Lunch: Monday - Thursday, Sunday 12:30 - 15:00 Friday - Saturday 13:00 - 16:00 Dinner: Everyday 19:00 - 23:00 Restaurant Style Buffet, A La Carte Dress Code Smart Casual Cuisine International Smoking No Capacity 170 (Indoor)
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RESTAURANT GUIDE
Yum!
Shabestan This authentic Iranian restaurant is the closest to a trip to Ancient Persia as humanly possible for a foodie in Dubai can manage. Located at the iconic Radisson Blu Hotel in Deira with splendid views of the creek, hearty cuisine, bread freshly baked from a clay oven and a live Iranian band make dining at Shabestan an unforgettable Persian experience.
Location Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, Dubai Cuisine Pan-Asian Restaurant Features Brunch Menu, Private Dining, Romantic Ambiance Contact +97142057033
Medzo This beautiful venue already boasts an enviable reputation within the Italian restaurant scene in Dubai and with recent renovations it once again proves itself top of its class for food and quality of service.
The award winning team offers sumptuously tender marinated meats grilled to perfection, aromatic perfumed rice, fine caviar, nectarous desserts, flavorsome pastries and tasteful confectionery. Rich in Persian culinary delights, the Shabestan experience would not be complete without a final glass of hot tea, served from the traditional Samovar. Shabestan- it is magically different. Open daily for Lunch from 12:30 pm - 3:15 pm, Dinner 7:30pm - 11:15 pm
Location Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, Dubai Cuisine Persian Restaurant Features Brunch Menu, Business Lunch, Family Friendly, Live Music Private Dining, Romantic Ambiance Contact +97142227171
Yum! is Dubai's trendiest Noodle bar and with good reason too! Yum! at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, lets you experience the fusion of the best Eastern cuisine, combining Thai, Malaysian, Singaporean and Indonesian. Yum! creates healthy, noodle-based dishes designed for those who want delicious, quick meals. Open for lunch and dinner from 12PM till 11:30PM
Location Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai Cuisine Italian Restaurant Features Brunch Menu, Business Lunch, Family Friendly, Outdoor Seating, Romantic Ambiance Contact +97143244100
This restaurant is truly the epitome of simplicity offering a menu featuring traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine perfectly complimenting the warm, trattoria style interiors and the option of al fresco dining to truly take advantage a truly special, truly Italian ambiance.
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SPORT
Horse Racing
For more than two decades, horse owners and breeders from the Arab world have worked to establish the Arab presence in international thoroughbred racing, not only by winning top trophies in the United States, Great Britain, France and Japan, among others, but also by bringing world-class racing and breeding back to the Arabian Peninsula, the home of the thoroughbred’s renowned ancestor, the Arabian. Horse racing began in the Emirate in October 1981, when the dusty Camel Track hosted the first thoroughbred. The race meeting consisted of three races - a sprint, a mile and a mile and a half. Just over a decade later in 1992, the now world-famous racing stable Godolphin began, followed by the inaugural Dubai World Cup meeting in 1996. The initial Dubai World Cup racemeeting put the United Arab Emirates on the map, as it has become the home of one of the world’s top racing challenges, and has drawn the attention of millions of enthusiasts around the globe. The standard was set and history was made by the American ‘wonder horse’ Cigar, when he claimed the first Dubai World Cup. Cigar appeared to be in trouble when from last came Soul of the Matter who began to cut into Cigar’s lead. Like all true champions, Cigar called upon
extra reserves and defied his rival in the final 200m. Described as a heroic battle, this encounter indeed set the benchmark for all future renewals. With the establishment of the annual invitation-only Dubai World Cup, the United Arab Emirates became the home of one of the world’s top racing challenges, and drew the attention of millions of enthusiasts around the globe. Among the horses entered in the inaugural race was a 13-time winner from Australia, a seven-race winner from Great Britain, the ‘dirt horse’ champion from Japan, and Cigar, North America’s ‘Horse of the Year’ for 1995. Reflective of the overwhelming generosity of the UAE and embodying the warmth of traditional Arabian hospitality, contenders for the purses are flown in from all corners of the world, such as North and South America, South Africa, South East Asia, Australasia and Europe, and horsemen enjoy generous travel subsidies for their support of racing in the UAE. To celebrate the 15 th renewal of the Dubai World Cup and opening of the iconic Meydan Grandstand and
LUXURY DUBAI
As 11 of the world’s leading thoroughbreds stepped onto Dubai’s refurbished Nad Al-Sheba racecourse on 27 March 1996, one of racing’s most ambitious dreams came true. The brainchild of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai World Cup is a fitting tribute to his love of horses and of horseracing.
Racecourse an extension of the programme was announced, and the Dubai World Cup meeting staged eight races, with the addition of the at-the-time Group Three Al Quoz Sprint, a 1200m turf race worth US$1 million. That race now enjoys Group One status and is run over 1,000m. The meeting, traditionally taking place at the end of March, will surpass its own record in 2012 as Meydan officials announced the addition of the newly renamed Dubai Gold Cup to the programme, a move that will increase the racecard to nine events with overall prize money to US$27.250 million. This latest addition to the already highly-competitive card completes the Dubai World Cup programme’s offerings to feature significant events for all divisions, on all surfaces, from sprinters to stayers.
The Dubai World Cup, worth US$10 million in prize money alone, is classified as a ‘Group One Flat Race’ for four-year-old thoroughbreds and above, and spans a distance of 2,000m (one mile, two furlongs, previously run on dirt it is now contested on an All-Weather surface. Chief supporting races are the US$5 million Dubai Duty Free and the US$5 million Dubai Sheema Classic, sponsored by Longines – and serve among the richest races run on turf, anywhere in the world. The Group Three Dubai Gold Cup to be run over 3,200m, also on turf. Perhaps part of the Dubai World Cup’s success is not only due to the state-of-the-art race track, but the burgeoning status of Dubai as an international crossroads and global transport hub, and of course a first-class tourist destination, evidenced by more than 50,000 racegoers attending the Dubai World Cup meeting each year.
Contact Us Media Department E-mail: media@dubairacingclub.com • Tel: +971 4 327 0077 Hospitality Department E-mail: hospitality@dubairacingclub.com• Tel: +971 4 327 0077
Breakfast with the Stars This event is the perfect way to see the Dubai World Cup horses during their morning track work whilst enjoying the al fresco style breakfast. Join us for Breakfast with the Stars on the Apron at the Meydan Grandstand on Thursday March 28, 2013. Get close to the 2013 Dubai World Cup racing stars and enjoy an exciting morning featuring live commentary, entertainment, raffle draws, interviews with the trainers, owners and jockeys and a lavish breakfast buffet.
Morning Track work: 6:00am – 09:00am Breakfast will be served from 7:00am – 09:30am
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SPORT
Dubai Golf In the past few months we have welcomed some fantastic events and tournaments to our clubs including the Omega Dubai Desert Classic and Omega Dubai Ladies Masters. It was fantastic to see one of the future stars of the ladies game, 16 year old Alexis Thompson win the ladies tournament and we hope to welcome Alexis back to the club again in the near future. In addition Rafael CabreraBello put in a fanastic performance over four days of tough competition to secure his biggest career win to date against a top class field of some of the world's highest ranked golfers to win the 2012 Omega Dubai Desert Classic. It has been an exciting time for Dubai Golf and we have recently opened our first managed club outside of the UAE, Almouj Golf in Muscat, Oman. Nine holes of the Greg Norman designed course are now open for play and the full 18 holes will open in April of this year. The feedback from residents and visitors that have played the course so far has been extremely positive and we are delighted to be managing this great facility which is set to become one of the region's best golf courses.
Emirates Golf Club offers the sublime international championship Majlis course "the desert miracle" as well as the beautiful and challenging Faldo course. Undulating alongside the Dubai Creek and capped by its iconic clubhouse building the course at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is a refreshingly different golfing experience.
LUXURY DUBAI
At Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Legends restaurant reopened at the beginning of the year following an extensive enhancement programme. The redesign of the restaurant includes the introduction of floor to ceiling glass doors making it the perfect spot to enjoy a bright Friday brunch or dinner. Outdoors, the stunning new terrace offers exceptional views over the golf course. The restaurant has also introduced a new menu, our Culinary Director, Max Grenard has placed a strong emphasis on sourcing the finest quality ingredients and produce. Our golf courses remain as popular as ever with both residents and visitors and our Golf Academies continue to go from strength to strength, we are now teaching over 400 juniors every year at our clubs in Dubai and the popularity of the sport is continuing to grow with increasing numbers of new golfers taking lessons at our clubs. The quality of golf facilities available within the UAE now rival the world's top golfing destinations and there really is no better place to take up the game of golf. We look forward to welcoming you to our clubs soon.
Emirates G olf Club
Dubai Creek G olf & Yacht Club
First for leisure on and off course
Waterfront Icon
Emirates Golf Club, host of the European Tour sanctioned Omega Dubai Desert Classic and Omega Dubai Ladies Masters, was the first all grass championship golf course in the Middle East when it opened in 1988. Taking pride in its 36 holes of world-class golf, the club sports two of the city's finest must-play courses, the Majlis and the Faldo Course, which is also the only 18 hole course in the region to offer night golf. Both courses combine the natural rolling desert terrain for a serious golfing test, while the signature clubhouse, remains the most eye-catching in the region. The Majlis Course has been presented with numerous accolades over its 22 year history, the most recent of which were its 2010 ranking by Golf World magazine as one of the 'Top 100 Golf Courses in the World' and its award for 'Best Course Middle East' in the Asian Golf Monthly Awards 2010 .
Dominating Dubai's enchanting waterfront, the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club overlooks the Creek and Marina.
From the testing 18-hole Majlis and Faldo courses, to the equally challenging par 3, the Emirates Golf Club draws accomplished and casual golfers looking to improve their game. 'The Emirates' is so much more than a golf club, serving as the premier address for all things leisure. Its appeal is equally wide-ranging off course, with everything from fine dining to bar bites available alongside top-notch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a brand new spa.
Emirates Golf Club Tel: +971 4 3802222 Email: egc@dubaigolf.com
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club opened in January 1993 to world acclaim and since then it has been host to numerous tournaments and events, including the Dubai Desert Classic on two occasions. The course record of 63 is jointly held by Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke. A round of golf at the sporting oasis in the heart of the city has a distinct aura of a delightful journey across the fabled landscape of Dubai, a city that thrives in all seasons. Well-groomed fairways lined with date palms and coconut trees, attractive water hazards and shrubbery lends a tropical air to the Club's 18-hole, par-71 championship course that rolls into thousands of undulating yards. The majestic Clubhouse - its design mirroring the sails of the traditional Arab dhow - has been one of the most photographed landmarks since it opened in 1993, capturing the essence of Dubai's seafaring traditions and presenting the perfect fusion of heritage with modernity and style.
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Tel: +971 4 2956000 Email: dcgyc@dubaigolf.com
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AD
helidubai
Dubai's premier helicopter services provider
Providing luxury executive helicopter flights in Dubai as well as precision helicopter aerial filming and helicopter aerial photography, helidubai is the region’s premier helicopter services company. Our success is based on a winning combination of a highly experienced team of pilots together with a luxury fleet of helicopters based in Dubai and servicing the Middle East region. When you choose helidubai, whether for our helicopter sightseeing tours of Dubai, corporate and private helicopter flights around the UAE, or aerial filming or photography you can be assured of a professional and highly efficient service. Our fleet of well-appointed helicopters ensure you arrive in style and on time, and our reputation for precision aerial filming and photography, using the latest equipment, has earned us worldwide respect.
Contact P.O.Box 11097 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Telephone: +971 4 224 4033 • Fax: +971 4 224 4168 Email: info@helidubai.com Filming and photography: filming@helidubai.com
Dubai helicopter services Based close to Dubai International Airport and within 20 minutes flying time to most points in the city helidubai is perfectly located to offer helicopter charter services in and around Dubai. We specialise in providing a range of helicopter services that are truly customised: Private helicopter tours of Dubai Business helicopter charter Private helicopter charter Helicopter aerial filming Helicopter aerial photography
LUXURY DUBAI
A new dawn
Experience the future of Dubai
Hop-on, hop off sightseeing Big Bus Tour Dubai
Dubai's modern miracles have not ceased to amaze the world, and this tour takes in some of the city's most famous buildings, and fabled developments. The Burj Al Arab is one of the world's most luxurious hotels, while the Palm Jumeirah is one of its most unique islands. Close by, the Dubai Marina is a thriving community of residences, hotels, boutiques, and marinas. Dubai is home to stunning resorts, signature villas and towering high rises, and a quick stop at the Dubailand Information Centre provides more facts on Dubai's future projects. The Souk Al Bahar is themed as a traditional Arabian marketplace and houses a wide range of shopping and dining choices. Located in The Old Town, in the vicinity of the world’s highest building, this is an ideal location to see the iconic Burj Khalifa soar into the skies.
Contact Tel: +971 4 303 4888 • Fax: +971 4 343 9977 Email: Arabian Adventures Emirates Holidays Building, Sheikh Zayed Road P.O Box 7631, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timezone: GMT +4 Hours: 0900 - 1830 Daily
Your open-top tour reveals Dubai’s landmarks and charts the city’s rapid development from a small fishing village to a modern, vibrant city. Take the Day Tour and use the hop-on, hop-off facility to visit all the places that interest you, or join the Night Tour with a live-guided commentary which showcases illuminated Dubai. On the Day Tour, you can choose a 24 or 48 hour ticket and enjoy free inclusions such as the Dhow River Cruise and Dubai Museum. Both Day Tour routes provide a personal recorded commentary available in ten languages. The Big Bus Sightseeing Tour is a safe and relaxing way to discover this great city; the perfect introduction to Dubai and a fun day out for all.
Tickets & Prices You can purchase tickets either online or on the day from any of our stops. Full Public Prices Adult Child Family Day Tour - 24 hour ticket $60 $27 $147 Day Tour - 48 hour ticket $80 $35 $196 Night Tour $34 $20 $90 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Combination $95 $41 $231
Contact If you would like to contact us, please feel free to call, fax or email us at the below. 971 (0) 4 340 7709 • infodubai@bigbustours.com Big Bus Tours Double Decker Bus Tours LLC P.O Box 116250 • Dubai-UAE
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DUBAI map
LUXURY DUBAI
LUXURY DUBAI
Essential Numbers Emergency Services Police Fire Department Ambulance Electricity Water Back to top
Government Contacts 999 997 999 991 991
Hospital Emergency Numbers Al Maktoum Hospital Al Wasl Hospital American Hospital Dubai Hospital Kuwait Hospital Rashid Hospital Welcare Hospital Back to top
228-4584 324-1111 309-6645 271-4444 707-8206 337-1323 282-9900
Lost Credit Cards Citibank Commercial Bank of Dubai Emirates Bank International National Bank of Dubai American Express Diner's Club Mastercard International Visa Back to top
800-4000 800-4474 800-4080 800-4767 / 223-3166 336-5000 349-8200 332-2956 223-6888
Airports/Flight Enquiry Dubai International Airport Flight Enquiry Back to top Radio Taxi Cars Taxi Dubai Taxi Golden taxi Gulf Radio Taxi Internite Taxi National Taxi Metre Rate Day Rate: Dhs 3 plus Dhs 1.17 per km Night Rate: Dhs 3.50 plus Dhs 1.70 per km Airport Rate: Dhs 16 plus .50 fils per 500 metres Operator Services Directory Enquiry Telephone Assistance Mobile Tel. Enquiries Call Booking & Enquiry Fault Reporting
224-5555 04-2166666
800-4825 208-0808 336-5444 223-6666 272-8299 336-6611
181 100 101 151 171
Civil Aviation Department Courts Department Department Of Economic Development Department of Naturalization & Residency Development Board Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority Dubai Electricity & Water Authority Dubai Government Workshop Dubai Internet City Dubai Muncipality Dubai Police Dubai Ports Authority Dubai Ship Docking Yard Dubai Tourism & Commerce Marketing Endowments & Islamic Affairs Dept Finance Department Federal National Council General Information Authority General Postal Authority General Secretariat of UAE Muncipalities Health & Medical Services Heritage & History Committee HH The Ruler's Affairs & Petroleum Affairs Institute Of Administration Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority Jebel Ali Free Zone Administration Lands Department Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries Ministry of Communications Ministry of Defence Ministry of Economy & Commerce Ministry of Education Ministry of Electricity & Water Ministry of Finance & Industry Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Health Ministry of Information & Culture Ministry of Islamic Affairs & Endowments Ministry of Justice Ministry of Labour & Social Affairs Ministry of Public Works & Housing Ministry of Youth & Sports Ports & Customs Dept Prime Minister's Office Protocol Dept Public Prosecutor Real Estate Dept State Audit Institution UAE Radio & Television Dubai
2066333 3347777 2229922 3139999 2288866 2995555 3244444 3342999 3998888 2215555 2292222 3451545 3341217 2230000 2663535 3531076 2824531 2821565 3371500 2237785 3370031 2227498 3531060 2821575 8815000 8813000 2222253 2958161 2953330 3532330 2954000 2994100 2626262 3532323 2221144 3348000 2615500 2691220 2825999 2691666 2693900 2691680 3459575 3451900 3531086 3346666 3461444 2286000 3369999
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LUXURY DUBAI 2013
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