Concierge Dubai January 2015

JANUARY 2015 | issue 125

M A G A Z I N E V I S I T O R F I V E - S T A R l u x u r y T H E

dubai edition JANUARY 2015 | issue 125

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

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TIME. MASTERED. 166 years in the making. The world’s first fully anti-magnetic Co-Axial movement is another historic landmark in precision watchmaking.

Our industry’s new quality standard has a name.

Available at:

OMEGA Boutiques Dubai: BurJuman • Deira City Centre • Dubai Mall • Dubai Festival City • Mall of the Emirates • Mina A'Salam • Mirdif City Centre • Sahara Centre • Wafi and at select Rivoli Stores.

Abu Dhabi: Marina Mall • Toll Free: 800-RIVOLI

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TIME. MASTERED. 166 years in the making. The world’s first fully anti-magnetic Co-Axial movement is another historic landmark in precision watchmaking.

Our industry’s new quality standard has a name.

Available at:

OMEGA Boutiques Dubai: BurJuman • Deira City Centre • Dubai Mall • Dubai Festival City • Mall of the Emirates • Mina A'Salam • Mirdif City Centre • Sahara Centre • Wafi and at select Rivoli Stores.

Abu Dhabi: Marina Mall • Toll Free: 800-RIVOLI

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Haute Joaillerie, place Vendôme since 1906

Majestic Cadeau Impérial Earrings, two exceptional pear-shaped D Internally Flawless diamonds – 43.14 cts.

Mystery Set rubies and diamonds.

DUBAI: Dubai Mall +971 4 339 8001 - Mall of the Emirates +971 4 347 2487 ABU DHABI: Marina Mall +971 2 681 1121 - Etihad Towers + 971 2 681 1919 The Galleria, Al Maryah Island +971 2 643 2088 www.vancleefarpels.com

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Haute Joaillerie, place Vendôme since 1906

Majestic Cadeau Impérial Earrings, two exceptional pear-shaped D Internally Flawless diamonds – 43.14 cts.

Mystery Set rubies and diamonds.

DUBAI: Dubai Mall +971 4 339 8001 - Mall of the Emirates +971 4 347 2487 ABU DHABI: Marina Mall +971 2 681 1121 - Etihad Towers + 971 2 681 1919 The Galleria, Al Maryah Island +971 2 643 2088 www.vancleefarpels.com

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JANUARY 2015 / ISSUE 125 / DUBAI EDITION

PU BL ISHER ROB N ICHOL A S

EDI TOR I A L GROU P EDI TOR - CONCIERGE JACQU E L IN E C A ST E L LUCCI A DEPU T Y EDI TOR C AV E L L M A L L ET T CON T R IBU T ING EDI TOR V IN E ET H A ME NON PRODUC T ION EDI TOR DE BR A FR E E M A N-T HOR PE CON T R IBU TOR S R ACHE L I NGR A M C AT HE R IN E L A NGL E Y FAY E BA RT L E SA N DR A T INA R I

ST U DIO SEN IOR A RT DIR EC TOR A N DR E A T E M PESTA A RT EDI TOR TON Y SA N T I AGO DESIGN ER S K A R E N A L M A Z A N-K A M P TON E ME R A L D GU T IE R R EZ PHOTOGR A PHER ADH A M SN E E H PRODUC T ION COOR DI NATOR SOH A IL K H A N

A DV ERT ISING BUSIN ESS DE V ELOPM EN T M A NAGER BET H SHIR A ZI HOT EL R EL AT IONSHIP M A NAGER PE DRO CODI NA SEN IOR R EL AT IONSHIP M A NAGER K IR AT SA BH A RWA L R EL AT IONSHIP M A NAGER S ROSE D’SOUZ A C A R ME N SILVA AYSH A CH A P T I BA R BA R A M A RCOR A X ING ZH A NG

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Welcome to Concierge The month of January is often a time for resolutions and reflection and, in ever-dynamic Dubai, these observations are all the more exciting. As another prosperous year of accomplishments beckons, from ample shopping opportunities to a thriving cultural scene there is much for visitors to explore. The first phase of Dubai Design District (d3) is due to open this month. Located alongside Downtown Dubai, d3 aims to promote the region’s emerging art and design talent as well as championing a number of top international labels.

The much-anticipated Mall of the Emirates expansion is due to complete in mid-2015 while plans for the ambitious Mall of the World project are expected to get underway. With all this and more on the horizon, there’s plenty for visitors to look forward to.

Having firmly established itself as a premier shopping and leisure destination, each year visitors from across the globe descend on the city for a decadent dose of retail therapy. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Dubai Shopping Festival presents a staggering amount of special offers and family entertainment. Turn to page 30 for more on this retail extravaganza.

For those intent on exploring the region’s more historical side, unearth a treasure trove of vibrant souks and aromatic bazaars. Peppered across the city, these traditional haunts beg exploration. Turn to page 42 to discover more.

With the eagerly anticipated Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) just around the corner, watch aficionados are presented with a stunning collection of the world’s latest timepiece novelties. Turn to page 46 for a selection of the best.

Artistic pursuits come under the spotlight as three local artists reveal which pockets of Dubai inspire creativity. Turn to page 54 for more on those who are shaping the city’s cultural landscape.

Boasting some of the finest Latin American restaurants, Dubai offers visitors a wide range of exotic flavours and influences. Plan an unforgettable meal on page 84.

Enjoy all that Dubai has to offer with Concierge.

NPImedia FZ LLC P.O. Box 500573, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 4243600 Fax: 04 4327505 Email: concierge@npimedia.com

IN FOCUS Photography: Getty Images

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Concierge magazine is also available in Russian, Arabic and Mandarin languages. Please request a copy from the concierge desk in the hotel lobby.

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Revered the world over for its five-star hospitality and record-breaking luxury lifestyle, Dubai has become a top choice for those seeking a destination decked with glitz and glamour. A haven for designer wares and the finest international fashion labels, the city is expecting tens of thousands of visitors to descend on the emirate for Dubai Shopping Festival. The annual retail spectacular runs until February 1 and boasts a host of sensational special offers

22/12/2014 18:26

ABU DHABI CLASSICS INTERNATIONAL CONCERT SEASON

OCTOBER 2014 - MAY 2015

PERFORMANCE CALENDAR JANUARY 7th 2015

APRIL 28th 2015

MAY 27th 2015

Khatia Buniatishvili: Solo Piano Concert

Orchestra Accademia Teatro alla Scala with Mikhail Tatarnikov (conductor) and David Fray (piano)

Bertrand Chamayou : Solo Piano Concert, Global Encounters

8:00pm Pre-concert Talk at 6pm

8:00pm

8:00pm Manarat Al Saadiyat Auditorium

Manarat Al Saadiyat Auditorium

Emirates Palace Auditorium

FEBRUARY 17th 2015

APRIL 29th 2015

MAY 28th 2015

Staatskapelle Dresden and Christian Thielemann

Orchestra Accademia Teatro alla Scala: Opera Gala

Bertrand Chamayou : Solo Piano Concert, The Wanderer

8:00pm

Al Qattara Arts Centre, Al Ain

8:00pm Pre-concert Talk at 6:00pm

8:00pm

Emirates Palace Auditorium

Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain

FEBRUARY 18th 2015

MAY 12th 2015

BOOK NOW!

Staatskapelle Dresden and Christian Thielemann

TCA Abu Dhabi Classics Music Awards

Tickets are available now from Ticketmaster.ae

8:00pm

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Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain

Emirates Palace Auditorium

For more information visit abudhabievents.ae

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Contents JANUARY 2015 / ISSUE 125

20/Essentials

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

27/Marine marvels

Discover marine marvels at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

29

Shop 30/Retail revelry As Dubai Shopping Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary, Concierge looks back at its evolution

36/ The art of fusion

Hublot’s high-profile collaborations and innovative approach to watchmaking ensures a global following

42/Traditional treasures 46/Quality time Ahead of this month’s Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie, discover the latest novelties from the world of watchmaking

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SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

A stark departure from Dubai’s ultra-modern malls, a visit to the city’s colourful souks and fragrant bazaars provides a unique shopping experience

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Contents JANUARY 2015 / ISSUE 125

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Discover 54/Art of the matter

Taking inspiraion from Dubai’s melting pot of cultures, three local artists reveal the sights that spark a creative streak

60/The traveller

Still considered one of the world’s greatest adventurers, Concierge delves into the fascinating past of Islamic explorer Ibn Battuta

63

Experience 64/In their element

Concierge joins the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team in Cape Town for the Volvo Ocean Race

70/ Making waves

VOLVO OCEAN RACE

As the Volvo Ocean Race teams prepare to depart Abu Dhabi for Sanya, China, take a look at some of the season’s highlights so far

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80/ New year, new you

Luxurious spa treatments to deliver some much-needed post-holiday pampering

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Contents JANUARY 2015 / ISSUE 125

83

Taste 84/A sense of place

Enjoy the exotic flavours of Latin American fine dining at some of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top restaurants

LA PARRILLA, JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

89 The guide

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112/My Dubai Salma Khan, fashion designer and founder of Salma Khan Fashion House, shares her city highlights

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Brought to you in association with

Essentials

JANUARY

D I S C OV E R Art exhibition

Art enthusiasts still have a few more days to catch the much-praised exhibition by Jaber Alwan. The latest acrylic pieces by the renowned Iraqi artist, who personally attended the exhibitionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s December opening at NAKKASH Gallery in Al Gahoud, explore myriad colours and a vibrant imagination. On display until January 8. Visit: nakkashgallery.com

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SHOP

Dubai Shopping Festival The UAE’s biggest annual retail extravaganza grants savvy shoppers the chance to start off the year in fabulous fashion. Boasting incredible offers across the city’s numerous malls, including the world’s largest, The Dubai Mall; from top gadgets to designer goods, it’s the perfect opportunity to bag a wide range of bargains.

The month-long event also promises to entertain visitors with a host of competitions, giveaways and family activities. When: January 1 to February 1 Visit: mydsfcom

TA S T E Brunch

Popular Monaco export, Sass Café, recently joined Dubai's famed brunch institution with the launch of The Sass Brunch. Championing the brand’s signature joie de vivre, the menu takes a gastronomic trip across the Mediterranean as executive chef Alexander Stumpf delivers an exciting edit of the restaurant’s top dishes. Be sure to sample the burrata with truffle honey and grilled peaches, penne a la arrabbiata and the delicious nougat glacé. When: Saturdays from 1pm to 6pm. Contact: 04 3527722

EVENTS IN BRIEF MAMMA MIA THE MUSICAL January 2 to 10 Delighting ABBA fans across Dubai, this January Dubai World Trade Centre will host the regional stopover of the award-winning Mamma Mia international musical tour.

Visit: yakevents.com

H A N K O O K 24 - H O U R ENDURANCE RACING January 8 to 10 The 10th edition of Dubai’s popular 24H Series promises an exhilarating weekend line-up as drivers are pitted against the clock and each other in a 24-hour endurance race.

Visit: 24hdubai.com

SONU NIGAM IN DUBAI January 16 One of India’s biggest singing sensations returns to Dubai. Held at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Bollywood artist Sonu Nigam will launch his latest production, The Epic Event – My Musical Journey.

Visit: itp.net/tickets

S TA N D A R D C H A R T E R E D D U B A I M A R AT H O N January 23 The 15th edition of the UAE’s most popular marathon will once again set off along Dubai's Umm Suqeim Road. The event also includes a 10-kilometre road race and four-kilometre fun run.

Visit: dubaimarathon.org

E X PER I E NCE Global Village

Global Village returns for its 19th edition to, once again, offer a unique shopping and entertainment experience. The bustling event kicked off on November 6 and will run until April 11, with the current season expected to exceed last year’s record-breaking five million visitors. In addition to an enticing selection of retail kiosks filled with international trinkets, the outdoor festival features family-friendly shows, a wide assortment of restaurants and a theme park. When: Until April. Visit: globalvillage.ae

DUBAI POLO GOLD CUP SERIES January 23 to February 6 The first instalment of the prestigious Dubai Polo Gold Cup will see some of the best international polo teams battle it out for the coveted Silver Cup crown at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club.

Visit: dubaipologoldcup.com

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TA S T E

ASK THE CONCIERGE M A R K S H E A R E R , C O N C I E R G E AT G R A N D H YAT T D U B A I , S H A R E S H I S R E C O M M E N DAT I O N S F O R A M E M O R A B L E S TAY

Japanese cuisine A popular haunt among the city’s social crowd, Toko Dubai delivers first-class Japanese fare. Originally hailing from Sydney, Australia, the Downtown Dubai venue has raised the bar on its modern izakaya dining experience by introducing several new dishes. Highlights include kani sarada no yuzu ae, an Alaskan crab salad served with a zingy yuzu dressing and ainame no oumi yaki, grilled Chilean seabass accompanied by a side of soy tamarind chilli and pickled myoga. When: Daily from 12 to 3pm, and 7pm to 2am. Where: Vida Downtown Dubai. Visit: toko-dubai.com

Dubai has established itself as a world leader within the hospitality industry and has an extensive range of top international hotels, restaurants and attractions offering guests quality experiences. The best location to relish Dubai's incredible sights is Burj Khalifa. At the Top – Burj Khalifa Sky provides a lookout from the world’s highest observation deck. Offering 360-degree city views, the best time to visit is at sunset when guests will also have the opportunity to admire The Dubai Fountain show from above.

For those seeking an adrenalinefilled afternoon, Skydive Dubai is set in one of the world’s premier skydiving locations featuring a jumpsite over Palm Jumeirah.

Experience the traditional side to Dubai by visiting the gold and spice souks in Deira. Afterwards, take a walk along the banks of Dubai Creek and see firsthand how influential trade has been to the city. Just a short trip away from the creek, I would recommend guests visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch, while learning about the history and traditions of the region.To cap off this cultural tour, a stop at Jumeriah Mosque is a must.

Dining in the desert is a great way to experience traditional Bedouin life.

Platinum Heritage provide tours through the dunes taking in the region’s majestic wildlife and scenery.

At the evening camp, witness belly dancers, falcon demonstrations or ride a camel. Back in the city, awardwinning restaurants such as the Abdel Wahab at Souk Al Bahar in Downtown Dubai present extraordinary views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. Don’t forget to choose outdoor seating. A visit to Agency in Souk Madinat Jumeirah is also a great opportunity to savour world-class wines and canapés, while taking in breathtaking views of the souk waterways and the Arabian Gulf.

SHOP Montblanc

Montblanc’s Great Characters Limited Edition collection commemorates John F. Kennedy. Encapsulating the achievements of the youngest man ever elected to the United States presidency, this fine writing instrument boasts a cap and barrel made of dark blue precious resin, with “A Time For Greatness” engraved on the cap ring and the initials JFK on the 1960s inspired clip. Perfect for the discerning collector, The Montblanc Great Characters Limited Edition JFK is available at the Montblanc boutique in The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 4340300

D I S C OV E R Dubai Marina

Not only is Dubai Marina an incredible feat of architectural design, but in itself, is a wonderful locale where a true sense of the city can be felt. An eclectic mix of visitors frequent this manmade waterside marvel to experience its chic café culture and take in the futuristic vistas. For those intent on a spot of shopping, Dubai Marina Mall offers a wide selection to choose from, including well-known fashion brands and jewellery boutiques, as well as direct access to neighbouring hotel The Address Dubai Marina, where fine-dining options can be sampled.

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SHOP

Etoile ‘La Boutique’ A decade on from its Middle East debut, the newly renovated Etoile ‘La Boutique’ flagship in Mall of the Emirates reveals just how far this beloved boutique has come. Brainchild of Ingie Chalhoub, the glittering store boasts contemporary brands as well as established designer labels including Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana and Chloé. Seven distinct areas, including a glitzy eveningwear section adorned with real gold leaves, showcase a wide selection of designs. When: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm and Thurs to Fri 10am to midnight, Where: Mall of the Emirates.

E X PER I E NCE Racing at Meydan

Equestrian fever accelerates as excitement over the Dubai World Cup Carnival continues to gain momentum. This month, racing revellers can head to Meydan Racecourse for an action-packed schedule. The year’s first race takes place on January 8, followed by a weekly schedule of events that culminates with the eagerly anticipated Dubai World Cup in March. Spectators can enjoy a host of tailored hospitality packages and gourmet dining experiences across the racecourse’s plush restaurants, luxury lounges and private suites. Visit: dubairacingclub.com

E X PER I E NCE At the Top Burj Khalifa Sky

Gain a new perspective of the city’s awe-inspiring sights from record-breaking heights with a visit to At the Top Burj Khalifa Sky. Perched an astonishing 555 metres up on Level 148, the new observation deck is the world’s highest viewing platform. The luxurious decking area boasts an outdoor terrace, an elegant lounge to relax in and an interactive screen featuring Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. When: Daily from 8:30am to midnight, Price: AED500 per person, Visit: burjkhalifa.ae

TA S T E Afternoon tea

Set in the majestic surroundings of The Palace Downtown Dubai, Al Bayt invites guests to savour its exquisite Timeless Arabic Afternoon Tea menu.

Infused with regional influences and flavours, highlights include camel milk pistachio crème brûlée and freshly baked saffron and cardamom scones served with clotted cream. In keeping with its ‘east meets west’ theme, Al Bayt accompanies this scrumptious selection with an exotic range of premium tea infusions. When: Daily from 2pm to 6pm Price: AED150 per person. Contact: 04 4287806

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S NA P S HOT

Marine marvels Discover the secrets of the deep at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo where an amazing insight into the world beneath the waves awaits. Shimmering hues of aqua and blue create a colourful canvas in which a rich variety of ocean creatures are a delight to observe. Bright shoals of fish add to the ever-changing scene as they hurry past while the graceful movements of the rays and sharks are sure to mesmerise.

This incredible attraction is located at The Dubai Mall where its 10-million-litre tank stops shoppers in their tracks. One of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, it is home to over 140 underwater species including the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks. Get a closer look at the creatures with a stroll through the spectacular walk-through tunnel which offers a unique view of their habitat.

Adventure-seekers can take the experience a step further by scuba diving in the tank among the sharks and fish.The Underwater Zoo is also a fun-filled part of the aquarium experience, where colourful characters from rivers and oceans await. The space is both educational and fun with informative exhibits on all of its inhabitants. Arranged around three ecological zones, Rainforest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean, expect to find otters, piranha, Humbolt penguins, Caiman crocodiles, lionfish, giant spider crabs and seahorses among the wealth of creatures to meet.

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Shop Time traveller

Tradition and timeless elegance are at the very heart of Baume & Mercierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Promesse Collection. Inspired by its vintage models of the 1970s, this new collection comprises 14 stunning pieces. The sophisticated design is complemented by a durable stainless steel bracelet, or delicate white satin or black alligator skin strap. Discover this chic collection at Baume & Mercier, The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 3398880

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SHOPPING AT VAN CLEEF & ARPELS, THE DUBAI MALL

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D UB AI S HOPPI N G FE S T I V A L / S HOP

Retail revelry As Dubai Shopping Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary, Concierge reflects on its progression over the past two decades WORDS BY

SANDRA TINARI

Now spanning some 6,000 retail outlets and 70 malls, an event born with the hopes of invigorating a fledgling retail sector has become the region’s most eagerly anticipated shopping and entertainment extravaganza. Today, 20 years on from its conception, the momentum that Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has gained is spectacular.

Brainchild of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, DSF arose from a vision to transform Dubai into a cosmopolitan city and the region’s largest retail hub and is currently the world’s longestrunning festival of its kind. With events such as Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience helping cement the city’s position as a global fashion capital, Dubai is quickly rising in the ranks as a first-class retail destination. When it comes to shopping for the very best the industry has to offer, visitors to DSF are spoilt for choice.

At the helm of the team behind this year’s event, HE Laila Mohammed Suhail, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, reaffirms that DSF has grown considerably since its early years.

“Dubai Shopping Festival began as a shopping extravaganza aimed at revitalising the retail sector in Dubai but it has, over the years, turned into an iconic family tourism attraction, offering multiple experiences in shopping, entertainment, culture and much more,” she says.

“While shopping remains at the heart of the festival, two other elements – competitions and entertainment – have significantly helped transform DSF. Thousands of events and activities have been organised during the 19 years of DSF, with the focus on activities that cater to the festival’s key target audiences – families, youth and children – also making it a platform for local, regional and international artistes.”

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SHO P/ DUB A I SHO PPING F ESTIV A L

HE Suhail adds: “Today, the Dubai Shopping Festival is living up to its promise of staging the most exciting activities for the whole family, in line with its universally appealing theme One World – One Family – One Festival. In fact, DSF brings together the community and visitors from around the world for a grand celebration that is a reflection of the tolerance and multi-culturalism that has been the hallmark of Dubai.”

In its inaugural year, the shopping festival boosted the city’s retail revenue by AED2.15 billion and attracted 1.6 million visitors.

Since that first event in 1996, DSF has attracted approximately 56 million visitors

seeking to take advantage of of deals of up to 75 percent off marked prices. Spreading across sectors in shopping, hospitality and entertainment, the surge in visitors to DSF each year has delivered a staggering total spend of AED145 billion. HE Suhail explains that the annual figures highlight the fact that the festival is considered much more than just a retail event.

“The tourism and retail sectors have traditionally driven Dubai’s economic growth and DSF has made a substantial contribution towards boosting both these sectors.

As a global event that annually attracts an average of 4.4 million visitors, with a total

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Today, 20 years on from its conception, the momentum the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has gained is nothing short of spectacular

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5 1 The Dubai Mall 2 Necklace, Louis Vuitton 3 Cuff, Chanel 4 Bracelet, Louis Vuitton 5 & 6 Gucci Cruise 2015 7 Clutch, Alexander McQueen 8 Bag, Chanel

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spend of AED15 billion, Dubai Shopping Festival is an important retail season that makes a major contribution towards the emirate’s economy.”

For many shoppers the spotlight falls predominately on Dubai’s mega-malls during this month-long festival.

The past decade has witnessed the rise of several sprawling shopping centres, including the multi-level Mall of the Emirates, boasting a stellar indoor-ski resort. As well as The Dubai Mall, which is currently home to more than 1,200 retail stores spread across a staggering 5.9 million square feet. Despite already being recognised at the world’s largest shopping centre, this mammoth mall has upped the ante with its expansion plans in preparation of an expected 100 million annual visitors. Catering to the every desire of even the most discerning shopper, these retail havens have become attractions in their own right.

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S

EIZE THE MOMENT FROM JANUARY 1ST TO JANUARY 31ST

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Visit your PANDORA store and discover the offer.

Terms and conditions apply.

SHO P/ DUB A I SHO PPING F ESTIV A L

However, the city’s burgeoning sector of quirky independent boutiques, local designers and multibrand stores now also attracts large volume of spenders.

The popular UAE boutique chain s*uce is one such retailer that is thrilled with the increased number of visitors during DSF and caters to this new legion of savvy shoppers with a host of exciting offers.

Operations manager at s*uce, Shaymaa Ghalib, believes DSF is one of Dubai’s most exciting retail initiatives.

“DSF certainly does well in terms of bringing in more visitors and increasing footfall in the malls which, in turn, benefits all the individual retailers,” she says. “s*uce always stocks a curated range of some of the most celebrated contemporary brands, mixed in with regional designers, so it really is the perfect place for anyone looking for something special, fashion forward and unique.”

Ghalib adds: “It is also the best place for shoppers who are looking to purchase a fashionable piece that they will not be able to buy anywhere else. Tourists, these days, tend to seek out fashion and lifestyle items that are genuine articles of regional design.”

For HE Suhail, much of the event’s attraction lies within this retail diversity. “DSF provides one of the best shopping experiences in the world. It is unique and diverse, ranging from city and street markets to

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traditional souks and world-class shopping malls. While DSF shoppers tend to frequent Dubai’s malls, they also have available to them a plethora of offers and deals from thousands of retail outlets located in Dubai’s many souks and high streets.”

From its humble beginnings as a novice shopping event to its current all-encompassing entertainment experience, Dubai Shopping Festival has been instrumental in the city achieving a prime position on the international retail and leisure scene.

Returning for its 20 th year bigger and better than ever, visitors to Dubai Shopping Festival can expect 32 days of non-stop events, special offers, premium giveaways and first-class family celebrations.

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DUBAI SHOPPING F E S T I VA L 2015 The 20 th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival runs from January 1 to February 1, 2015.

Visit mydsf.ae for more information and stay up to date with the latest entertainment, events and competitions throughout the month.

9 HE Laila Mohammed Suhail 10 Mall of the Emirates 11 s*uce boutique 12, 13 & 14 Dior 15 Burberry Prorsum Resort 2015

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The art of fusion Known for combining tradition with innovation, Hublot’s forward-thinking approach to watchmaking and high-profile collaborations is winning fans around the world WORDS BY

FAY E BA R T L E

From its 1980 debut with a single watch that broke the mould to becoming a modern-day powerhouse that is partnered with Ferrari and counts Israeli actress and model Bar Refaeli among its high-profile ambassadors, Hublot’s story of success is nothing short of entertaining.

Indeed, when it comes to purchasing a timepiece from the Swiss brand, collectors can expect to enter a world of thrill and spectacles. A prime example of this is the Hublot Challenge that recently took place at The Dubai Mall. Drawing on the brand’s links to motor racing, a Ferrari F1 simulator was installed in the mall’s Grand Atrium, inviting guests to test their skills to win a track experience at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit.

Dubai was the first leg of the Middle East tour of the challenge and the initiative caused quite a stir. HH Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid a visit, taking the time to explore the adjacent pop-up store which featured a selection of the brand’s luxury timepieces including signature model, the Big Bang Ferrari Titanium Carbon.

“Dubai is a very important market for us as it is a global hub for business and leisure,” says Jean-Claude Biver, Hublot chairman. “If we are strong in Dubai, we are strong in the Middle East and around the world.”

In a further sign of its dedication to the region, Hublot recently opened a flagship boutique at Dubai’s Mall Of the Emirates, which builds on its existing boutique in Abu Dhabi’s Marina Mall that was inaugurated two years ago.

“We are planning to open two more standalone boutiques in the coming year,” reveals Biver. “The pop-up store in The Dubai Mall is also a first for Hublot and we are going to organise more events like this, which allow us direct contact with our customers.”

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HUBLOT BIG BANG FERRARI 305

HUBL OT / S HOP

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SHO P/ HUB LO T

Making the connection Finding more opportunities to offer a personal touch is a fitting way to show an appreciation for the brand’s loyal following.

Many of Hublot’s admirers are drawn just as much to the innovative watches as they are the charismatic chairman.

Luxembourg-born Biver is something of a celebrity among watch aficionados and has received numerous accolades since he joined the company as CEO in 2004, bringing with him fresh ideas for developing the brand.

At the top of his agenda was reviving the Art of Fusion concept which the company became known for when it was launched by Carlo Crocco in 1980. Back then, Crocco took the decision to combine a precious material (gold) with rubber to make a debut watch called the Hublot. Featuring a portholeshaped case with polished and brushed gold, a sleek black dial and black rubber bracelet, it marked the first time in the history of watchmaking that these materials were used together.

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“We connect our customer to the future and think out of the box combining tradition with innovation”

1 The Hublot pop-up store at The Dubai Mall 2 Hublot celebrates its 25th anniversary with Ferrari in the UAE 3 Hublot Big Bang Unico

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Despite garnering little attention on the first day of its debut at Baselworld, the watch later emerged as a surprise commercial success with sales in excess of US$2 million in its first year.

A series of creative new timepieces followed but Crocco’s increasing charity endeavours prompted him to recruit a willing candidate to take on Hublot. He met Biver in 2003 who, at the time, was president of Swatch Group’s Omega division. He decided to jump on board in 2004.

Within a year of joining the business, Biver launched an updated version of the original Hublot watch called Big Bang. Unveiled at Baselworld 2005, it was an instant hit with Hublot’s Baselworld orders tripling compared to the previous year. It also won the prize for Best Design at the prestigious Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Geneva. As a result, Hublot was essentially reborn and the company went on to enjoy an impressive period of growth.

“When we took on the brand in 2004 it was a US$30-million-dollar business.

In only four years, we turned it into a

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US$250-million-dollar business,” says Biver.

“During that time, we opened 70 boutiques worldwide in all the best addresses and have built a hi-tech manufacture. Hublot has one of the best success stories in the Swiss watch industry, achieving double-digit growth each year.”

Highlights included the debut of Hublot TV in 2006, marking the first internet television channel by a luxury brand. The following year saw Hublot launch its first own-brand boutique in Paris on Rue Saint-Honoré.

The second was inaugurated the following summer at Saint-Tropez’s Hotel Byblos.

In 2008, Crocco sold the company to the French group LVMH and Biver now serves as both Chairman of Hublot and President of the Watch Division, LVMH Group.

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Showrooms Dubai Mall | Dubai Marina Mall | Mall of the Emirates | Wafi | Gold Souk retail@mahallatijewellery.ae â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.mahallatijewellery.com Tel: +971 4 2262277

SHO P/ HUB LO T

Back with a bang Over the years, Biver has helped to build a range of innovative watches for men and women that raise the bar, from the sleek and contemporary Classic Fusion Tourbillon Skull, featuring a manual-winding skeleton tourbillon movement, to the colourful 1970s-inspired Big Bang Pop Art collection for women. Many of the designs feature the signature UICO movement – a dial-side column wheel chronograph movement that was created by Hublot and is developed and manufactured exclusively in-house. Along with CEO Ricardo Guadalupe, Biver has also played a pivotal role in masterminding a series of collaborations with top sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup – all with the Art of Fusion concept at the core.

In 2008, Hublot became the Official Timekeeper of the EURO Championship and, in 2010, was named the first Official Watch and Official Timekeeper for FIFA and the World Cup. This was on top of being chosen as the Official Watch and Official Timekeeper of Ferrari. These joint ventures provided Hublot with a global stage to promote the brand.

“There are hundreds of links between our watches and performance vehicles,” says Biver. “From high technologies to performance, innovation, materials, prestige and exclusivity – we have a common DNA with motor racing and especially

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our partner Ferrari. That’s why our teams work closely together. As part of our role as Scuderia Ferrari timekeeper, we are always present at the grand prix races that take place around the world.”

Beyond the world of sport, Biver has created an exclusive club of friends and ambassadors – each living legends in their field – with whom the brand also works hand in hand on charity projects. Among the famous names is fastest man on the planet Usain Bolt; basketball stars Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant and music artists Depeche Mode and Jay Z. “First of all, they are customers, then they become ambassadors and then they

4 Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Russia 5 Hublot Big Bang Pop Art 6 Hublot Classic Fusion Tourboillon Skull 7 From left to right: Marco Tedeschi, HH Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Jean-Claude Biver, Mohammmed Abdulmagied Seddiqi and Osama Ibrahim Seddiqi, at the Hublot Challenge and pop-up store at The Dubai Mall in 2014

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become friends, which is the most important element for us,” said Biver. “They have chosen Hublot because they love the brand.”

The watchmaker now boasts a 6,000square-metre hi-tech manufacture on the banks of Lake Geneva in Nyon as well as a foundry dedicated to producing scratchresistant 18-carat gold that features prominently in the range. Hublot also has an in-house galvanoplasty department that continually tests new metal treatments and has acquired a company that specialises in making carbon fibre components. Its dedication to research and development led to the launch of a bright red ceramic – another watch industry first. To showcase its growing collections, the brand now has 750 points of sale and more than 70 boutiques around the world.

“We connect our customer to the future,” says Biver. “We think out of the box combining tradition with innovation. One of the best examples of this is the record-breaking 50-day power reserve of the Masterpiece MP-05 LaFerrari.”

Accolades and world records aside, there is still so much more to come from Hublot.

As Biver says: “Hublot and the Big Bang are only 10 years old now. Remember how you were when you were 10? It’s the same for Hublot. We are still at the beginning of our life.”

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BUR DUBAI SOUK

SHO P/ LO CA L B UYS

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Traditional treasures

Behind the contemporary allure of Dubai’s high-end brands and luxury labels lies a rich retail tradition of industrious enterprise and skilled craftsmanship. Scratch beneath the gilded surface to reveal myriad unique shopping experiences steeped in local custom.

Nowhere captures the spirit of tradiDelve into the city’s colourful souks, tional Middle Eastern commerce quite bazaars and traditional shopping spaces like the souks with many famous examto discover the true heart of Arabia ples in the UAE, Egypt, Turkey, Israel and Morocco. Souks, meaning ‘marketplace’ in Arabic, originated in the Arab world centuries ago as outdoor shopping areas where trading for all types of goods was conducted amid jostling crowds and frenzied bartering. As the first communities began to settle along Dubai Creek in the 18th century, the old city became a major port where those from neighbouring countries, as well as Asia and the Far East, arrived with their wares by boat. The clamorous scene thronged with potters, weavers, butchers, fruit and vegetable sellers and merchants of precious metal and spices.

Over the years, the purpose of the souks has evolved with better organisation and a broader range of modern goods, yet the bazaars in Deira and Bur Dubai still remain a hive of vibrant activity offering a fascinating window into the past. Issam Abdul Rahim Kazim, chief executive officer of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, believes traditional shopping is a must to capture the essence of the city’s retail environment. “Souks are an important part of Dubai’s heritage. On the banks of Dubai Creek, they are where Dubai’s story began and offer a completely different experience to the ultra-modernity of the shopping malls.”

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1 & 2 Gold Souk 3 & 5 Bur Dubai Souk 4 Spice Souk

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With over 300 retailers vying for attention, Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gold Souk is a major visitor attraction and the ultimate destination for all that glitters. Jewellers from around the world are represented here and the souk offers countless gilded choices in all shapes, styles and colours. Beyond the Gold Souk, there is so much more to discover in the labyrinthine markets that line the creek. The Spice Souk

conjures a particularly evocative scene. Packed into narrow streets, shop fronts are filled with every imaginable herb and spice available and sacks burst with an array of colours. A heady mix of aromas fills the air, enveloping the senses with hints of vanilla, chilli, turmeric, saffron and cloves. Those who know their ingredients will be at home conversing with the friendly vendors and bartering over prices

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The Spice Souk conjures a particularly evocative scene. Packed into narrow streets, shop fronts are filled with every imaginable herb and spice available and sacks burst with an array of colours

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in the piquant surroundings. In addition to spices, visitors will find dates and other dried fruits, as well as incense, tea and shisha.

Close by, the adjacent stalls sell all manner of cooking utensils. On the opposite side of the creek and just an abra ride away, Bur Dubai Souk is the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and offers a wealth of treasures from colourful lanterns and intricate hand-woven carpets to silk scarves and traditional-style clothing.

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For those who appreciate a less frenetic pace, elsewhere in the city, several retailers have embraced the authentic souk experience and added a modern twist. Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Souk Al Bahar have both been designed with a strong Arabic influence in a contemporary setting, offering local handicrafts with jewellery, art, gifts, clothing and interiors brands for an eclectic shopping trip.

Another of the city’s modern bazaars is Souk Khan Murjan at Wafi Mall. Modelled on an ancient underground souk in Baghdad, it brings together architectural influences from Egypt, Syria, Turkey and Morocco.

The venue provides a creative community for artists and craftspeople, encourageing skilled individuals to break into the retail world and showcase traditional products.

Originally an interior architect, Abbas Saberi opened the Swan Palace gallery in Souk Khan Murjan where he makes copper, aluminium

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6 Desert scene, Swan Palace, Souk Khan Murjan 7 & 8 Miraj Islamic Art Centre 9 Souk Madinat Jumeirah

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and brass artworks decorated with genuine pearl, turquoise, red coral and Swarovski crystals. The pieces are inspired by famous Iranian poems, as well as poems written by his wife and many feature decorative Islamic art and calligraphy.

“My artworks are a combination of four forms of art together in one handmade piece: poetry, embossing, engraving and painting on metal. The gallery has allowed me to bring a combination of new ideas and classical concepts to a wider audience,” he explains.

Miraj Islamic Art Centre is a retail space in Jumeirah that has the hushed ambience of a

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museum where opulent treasures are artfully placed alongside educational materials. Pieces on show include Islamic woodcarving, astrolabes and precious metal objects.

“Intricate Persian and Kashmiri carpets are most popular with some exceptional jewelencrusted versions that customers purchase as investment pieces to pass on through generations,” says Manzoor Kachroo, director of sales at Miraj Islamic Art Centre.

Dubai has much to offer the modern day shopper and some of the most magnificent gems are those which celebrate the region’s captivating heritage.

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Greubel Forsey GMT BLACK

w a t che s / s hop

Quality time Concierge reveals the latest novelties from the world of haute horlogerie

With Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) taking place this month in Geneva, fine watchmaking is already in the spotlight.

Running from Januar y 19 to 23, SIHH celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and will showcase the latest creations by some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best watch and jewellery manufacturers including Cartier, Piaget, Van Cleef & Arpels, Roger Dubuis and several others under the respected Richemont SA group.

In anticipation of a memorable year ahead for the world of fine watchmaking, Concierge presents a selection of top timepieces that will be unveiled at SIHH.

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Cartier In 1904, Louis Cartier designed the first men’s wristwatch and, more than a century later, the French maison continues to innovate with collections for every style.

In particular, many of Cartier’s timepieces reflect a strong creative and artistic aspect.

This year, the Ronde Louis Cartier Filigree watch is another testament to the house’s artistry with a dial design that uses the centuries-old technique of filigree. Like working with delicate lace, the technique involves a goldsmith soldering precious wires to create an openwork grid with a desired motif – in this case panthers, whose spotted coats are woven from filigree elements of gold and platinum and set with diamonds to dramatic effect.

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Baume & Mercier

The Ronde Louis Cartier Filigree watch is another testament to the house’s artistry with a dial design that uses the centuries-old technique of filigree

1 Ronde Louis Cartier Filigree, Cartier 2 Hampton Auto, Baume & Mercier 3 QP à Equation invention, Greubel Forsey

Luxury Swiss brand Baume & Mercier is well known for its fine timepieces that are the result of a more classic design approach, as evident in its Clifton Collection. This year marks the release of Baume & Mercier: Clifton Automatic Big Date and Power Reserve. Inspired by a 1950s model from the maison’s museum collection, the new self-winding design features an uncluttered dial with a big date display in an aperture at 12 o’clock.

Fans of Baume & Mercier will also be pleased to know that the Hampton Collection – iconic for its rectangular-shaped dials – is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year with the release of two new self-winding steel timepieces.

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Greubel Forsey Having launched in 2004, Swiss brand Greubel Forsey may be relatively new to the watchmaking industry but it has already made a name for itself with inventive timepieces that use mostly tourbillons.

It recently debuted QP à Equation that displayed all the indications of the perpetual calendar and has paved the way for yet more innovations. Three new timepieces will be launched by Greubel Forsey in 2015, including the stunning GMT Black with a titanium case and limited to just 22 pieces worldwide.

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W A T CHE S / S HOP

Officine Panerai

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Combining the principles of Italian design and Swiss technology, Officine Panerai is known for producing precision timepieces. With a history that dates back to the 19th century as the exclusive supplier for the Royal Italian Navy, the brand’s watches exemplify the perfect blend of aesthetics and innovation.

In 2015, updates to its signature lines include the Luminor 1950 3 Days Chrono Flyback Automatic Ceramica. With a matt black ceramic case, the 44 millimetre watch is water-resistant and features a convenient flyback function.

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Piaget

Jaeger-LeCoultre

After making history with last year’s launch of Altiplano 900P, the thinnest luxury mechanical watch in the world, Swiss manufacturer Piaget was never expected to rest on its laurels.

This year, Piaget reveals a brand new ultrathin hand-wound chronograph timepiece – Altiplano Chronograph. As the world’s thinnest hand-wound flyback chronograph at just 8.24 millimetres, the timepiece also boasts the thinnest movement in the family.

Swiss maison Jaeger-LeCoultre is looking to the sky with an astral theme that not only inspires the design of new watches but also takes on a functional element with lunar and zodiac calendars. There are several novelties releasing in 2015, including the new Duomètre Sphérotourbillon Moon that features a moon-phase indication designed to stay accurate for over 3,500 years, an elegant sphérotourbillon that turns on a tilted axis and a small seconds flyback system.

4 Luminor 1950 3 Days Chrono Flyback Automatic Ceramica, Officine Panerai 5 Altiplano Chronograph, Piaget 6 Duomètre Sphérotourbillon Moon, Jaeger-LeCoultre 7 Saxonia Dual Time, Saxonia and Saxonia Automatic, A. Lange & Söhne

A. Lange & Söhne Founded in 1845, German high end watch manufacturers A. Lange & Söhne garnered a lot of attention at SIHH last year with stunning timepieces such as the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar.

This year A. Lange & Söhne is presenting three new models in the iconic Saxonia line that was first launched 20 years ago.

Saxonia, Saxonia Automatic and Saxonia Dual Time all feature a refined dial design with subtle changes – the gold applied hour markers have been moved further towards the edge of the dial and are executed as double baton appliques at the hours of 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock.

The Saxonia Dual Time, in particular, is a key highlight from A. Lange & Söhne with an adjustable second zone time. It also sports a more elegant look with a reduced case size of 38.5 millimetres.

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Parmigiani Fleurier

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Luxury Swiss watch manufacturer Parmigiani Fleurier has never been shy of pushing the envelope of design as evident in its grand complication Toric and Bugatti models, yet the Tonda collection best encapsulates the refined Parmigiani Fleurier spirit. The Tonda 1950 watch, in particular, has long been celebrated for its elegant design and, this year, it received a bold makeover with a new Squelette edition. Tonda 1950 Squelette boasts an intricate open-worked dial which places the skeleton movement in the spotlight. Dials on menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s watches are entirely transparent while the ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; model features a lightly frosted finish.

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Roger Dubuis Swiss manufacturer Roger Dubuis has dubbed 2015 the year of the Skeleton with two skeleton-work Excalibur timepieces.

The Excalibur range is characteristic of bold design and technical prowess, and the new skeleton additions this year complement the portfolio. Excalibur Spider Skeleton

Flying Tourbillon extends the theme from the movement to the case and hands, while still retaining the signature Roger Dubuis star-shaped design. Another highlight is the Excalibur Automatic Skeleton, which features the first skeletonised automatic Roger Dubuis movement with a micro-rotor.

The Excalibur range is characteristic of bold design and technical prowess, and the new skeleton additions this year complement the portfolio

8 RD820SQ Calibre movement, Roger Dubuis 9 Excalibur Spider Skeleton Flying Tourbillon, Roger Dubuis 10 Tonda 1950 Squelette, Parmigiani Fleurier 11 Craftsmanship at Van Cleef & Arpels 12 Cadenas Sertie Bracelet, Van Cleef & Arpels

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Van Cleef & Arpels

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French maison Van Cleef & Arpels never fails to amaze with creations that are always artistic and technically quite unique, such as the stunning Midnight Planetarium timepiece from the Poetic Complications collection unveiled at SIHH last year.

For 2015, the house is taking inspiration from historical archives with its Cadenas watch that was created in 1935 with an iconic padlock design. Cadenas, which means lock in French, is the inspiration for nine new models this year. The jewellery watch now comes with alligator straps, gold bracelets, diamonds and mother-of-pearl dials.

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BurJuman, Level 1, Tel: +971 4 352 0002 Dubai Mall, GS-068, Tel: +971 4 434 0790, +971 4 265 1111 Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Tel: +971 4 343 5131 Email: info@istanauae.com, www.istanauae.com

Discover Oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bount y

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Before the discovery of oil, Dubai was transformed from a collection of desert tribes into a thriving pearl-diving economy as Arabian Gulf oysters were exported around the world. Pearl divers would free dive with only basic equipment such as ropes to guide them back to the surface. Their efforts saw the nation prosper and the story is told at the Diving Village in Dubai. Contact: 04 3937151

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54 Dubai World Cup VIP Box Social Seen by Hatty Pedder

D UB A I A RT I S T S / DIS COVE R

Art of the matter With its eclectic cultural roots, Dubai is brimming with artistic inspiration. Concierge meets three local artists to learn how the city spurs their creative streak Words by

Catherine Langley

Known the world over as an ultra-modern metropolis, where record-breaking architectural feats stand alongside world-renowned attractions, Dubai boasts a fascinating historical and cultural scene. Among its thriving artistic community are those who seek to present a fresh perspective on all the hidden beauty, both overt and under the surface, that the emirate has to offer. Dubai’s buzzing art scene, has been growing at a steady pace for the last few years as events such as Art Dubai go from strength to strength and cultural encloves appear across the city. Three artists at the heart of this burgeoning scene include: British-born Hatty Pedder, who has carved out a reputation as one of the UAE’s most prominent contemporary artists, thanks to her imaginative paintings inspired by city life; Khalid Mezaina, whose playful comicbook creations give a fresh perspective on ‘old Dubai’; and Laober Zhu, a watercolour artist who uses Dubai’s ever-evolving landscape as the basis of his artistic reflection. Concierge learns from each artist just what it is that makes this remarkable city such a melting pot of inspiration.

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DIS C O VER/ DUB A I A RTISTS

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Hatty Pedder’s celebrated exhibition, Social Seen, captures the diversity of Dubai’s diverse lifestyles.

“For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to be an artist. My father is an amateur artist, as well as my grandparents and I’ve never really wanted to do anything else. However, when I first moved to Dubai 20 years ago, the illustration scene was non-existent, so I broadened my horizons and moved into fashion styling and natural-light photography. Fortunately, those tools have been invaluable in my work today, because the source of my creativity is derived from real people. Starting with photographs, I capture the essence and feel of a place or situation and then tweak it here and there, always adding a personal touch.

“The original inspiration for Social Seen was the work of Victorian artist William Powell Frith. He painted large panoramic scenes that documented real people. In each of his works a million things are happening all at once. This gave me the idea to do a collection of reportage pieces, based on the various different social scenes of the city.

“One of my first pieces was Dubai World Cup VIP Box. I don’t think there is anywhere else in the world that has events quite like Dubai.

They are glamorous and incredibly decadent

“I capture the essence and feel of a place or situation and then tweak it, always adding a personal touch”

1 Wedding show by Hatty Pedder 2 Hatty Pedder

and the Dubai World Cup is one of the most flamboyant. I took hundreds of photographs and used them to create a story. There is so much detail in the picture and while some of the people look just as they did on the day, I have taken others in a different direction, giving them a distinctive new look and going so far as to create new outfits for them. Another piece, Safa Park, was inspired by an afternoon I spent in the park watching a group of Indian people play. I have no idea what the game was but it involved banging trays and spoons and it looked really idyllic as the sun set behind them.

“As an artist it’s my goal to capture real people living their lives and create an interesting story. I like to think that when people look at my work they’ll find someone they think they’ve met in almost every picture.”

Limited-edition art prints of Hatty Pedder’s work are available from hatty-pedder.com

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DIS C O VER/ DUB A I A RTISTS

Emirati graphic designer and illustrator Khalid Mezaina is inspired by elements of ‘old Dubai’ “I was born and raised in the UAE and have experienced a lot of change in my 29 years.

I think that is one of the reasons that Dubai plays such a huge role in my work. So much is disappearing from the past to make way for the present and the future that I constantly feel motivated to document these things before they disappear forever.

“My favourite areas around the city are the ones that are known as ‘old Dubai’, such as Deira, Bur Dubai, Karama and Satwa. I think these spots have so much character.

This is particularly evident in my piece, Windtowers, which pays homage to the original buildings of Dubai. In many ways I wish they were still included as a functional structure. I guess you could say that this piece is my response to all the high-rise buildings sprouting up around the city.

Another choice piece is Arab Dreem, which illustrates the humorous shop signs found in Karama. I find something as simple as signage speaks volumes about the communities that have settled in specific areas. There is a charm to these signboards; from their visual appearance to the way things are spelt.

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“Ultimately I find inspiration all over the place and recently I purchased a T-shirt from London with illustrations of different chicken shops found in the south of the city.

I thought it was such a great way of capturing something so iconic and specific. So in a future project I would like to document the various cafeterias and shawarma shops that are found all over the UAE.” Limited-edition art prints of Khalid Mezaina’s work are available from Capsule Arts (capsulearts.com)

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“So much is disappearing from the past to make way for the present and the future that I constantly feel motivated to document these things”

3 Khalid Mezaina 4 Karama by Khalid Mezaina 5 The Prayer by Laober Zhu

Laober Zhu is a watercolour artist from China who has painted some of the city’s most iconic areas

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“Dubai is a remarkable place to paint. On the one hand, it is a stunning city combining Arabic culture with modern civilisation and traditional architecture with skyscrapers. On the other, it is a great place where people from all over the world congregate and enjoy a peaceful life.

“My preferred place to paint is Dubai Creek. When I first moved here two years ago I was surprised by the local scenery and how full of regional culture it was. I never get tired of watching the busy water taxis, the ships being loaded and unloaded and the seagulls. One of my favourite pieces is Mosque Under Construction which was inspired by the city’s famed ongoing building work. I see construction sites and workers everywhere I look and this picture is a representation of a typical city scene.”

Limited-edition art prints of Laober Zhu’s work are available from Capsule Arts (capsulearts.com)

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Congratulations One&Only The Palm, Dubai Voted #1 in the Middle East & North Africa Voted #11 in the Top 100 Hotels & Resorts in the World The World’s Best Hotels & Resorts Category

By Condé Nast Traveler US, Reader ’s Choice Awards 2014

oneandonlythepalm.com

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The traveller

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Explorer Ibn Battuta, a man of wit and a thirst for adventure, continues to garner admiration WORDS BY

SANDRA TINARI

When celebrated Spanish composer Jordi Savall premiered the Ibn Battuta: The voyager of Islam concert at Abu Dhabi Classics – an annual international concert series that runs across the emirate until May – Battuta’s inspirational exploits were once more propelled into the spotlight.

Born into a scholarly family in Tangier, Morocco, Abu Abdullah Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Lawati Al Tanji Ibn Battuta – popularly known as Ibn Battuta – set out on his adventures when he was just 20 years old as he embarked on a hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. This was to be the journey that signalled the beginning of his many renowned adventures. Concierge looks back on the life of one of the world’s greatest travellers.

In his footsteps Exploring land and sea, Ibn Battuta’s travels were extensive throughout the Middle East region.

“In 1325, Ibn Battuta set out on the hajj, a return trip that in the early 14th century would usually take some 16 months. Instead of returning directly to Morocco, however, he continued his travels and didn’t return for another quarter of a century,” explains archaeologist Dr Alasdair Brooks, who works as a heritage consultant in the UAE, Qatar and Oman.

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“Initially he was fulfilling his obligation to perform the hajj. After that, it was a combination of insatiable curiosity, a desire to find gainful employment and just occasionally, political expediency.

For example, his famous trip to China was initially at the behest of the Sultan of Delhi, who employed Ibn Battuta as a qadi (judge) and asked him to serve as an ambassador to Mongol China,” says Brooks.

He travelled by land from Morocco to Mecca via North Africa and Syria. He then sailed from Jeddah to Tanzania in East Africa and back to Mecca via Oman and the Arabian Gulf, rarely choosing the most direct routes.

Ibn Battuta then left the Arabian Peninsula for Delhi to seek employment with Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq. The route took in the eastern Mediterranean, Anatolia, the Caspian Sea, Byzantine Constantinople (his first time outside Muslim lands), Bokhara, Samarkand and even Afghanistan.

Ibn Battuta later journeyed to China via the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, modern Bangladesh, Maldives and Sumatra in an adventure that took well over a year. While in China, he explored lands between Beijing and the far south before embarking on a three-year trip back to Morocco via the Strait of Hormuz, Basra and Damascus.

Finally, before returning to his homeland in 1354, Ibn Battuta spent four more years exploring the lands of Al Andalus (Islamic Spain) and the Mali Empire of West Africa.

“He certainly was a great traveller and a scholar, driven by extraordinary curiosity about his world. As his exploits were mainly within the known Islamic world, with the

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I BN BA T T UT A / DIS COVE R

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major exception of China and the brief visit to Byzantine Constantinople, Ibn Battuta’s journey is a symbol of the existing connectedness of that world,” says Brooks.

Historic account

1 Map of Morocco 2 Great Wall of China 3 Illustration of Ibn Battuta 4 The Ka’aba, Mecca

The vivid storytelling and detail of day-to-day life in Ibn Battuta’s memoir is said to considerably surpass the insight left behind by Marco Polo

Most of what is known about the man today is from his own work called Rihla which translates from Arabic to ‘journeys’. Because of this, he is regarded as one of the world’s first travel chroniclers as he recounted his tales to the scholar, Ibn Juzayy Al Kalbi, at the request of the Sultan of Morocco.

In his lifetime Battuta covered more than 75,000 miles, visiting the equivalent of more than 44 modern countries. A few of the places he visited are represented in Dubai’s themed shopping destination, Ibn Battuta Mall, that pays homage to the man’s travels with dedicated interactive exhibits.

“The record of his journey, Rihla, is an unparalleled and invaluable record of the Islamic world and beyond during the 14th century. Ibn Battuta describes almost every conceivable aspect of human life in that age and left us a uniquely important and engagingly personal eye-witness account of a world that no one else explored and recorded in such detail. Rihla is a highly useful document for both historians and archaeologists precisely because of that detail,” Brooks says.

The vivid storytelling in Ibn Battuta’s memoir is said to surpass the insight left behind by Marco Polo. Any comparisons made between the two great travellers, however, are not necessarily fair, Brooks adds.

“I understand why they are compared but it’s a comparison that perhaps sells Ibn Battuta short. For one thing, Ibn Battuta travelled further. Their experiences and motivations were also very different.”

Islamic hero Despite such extensive and well-documented adventures Ibn Battuta was not very well known beyond Africa and the Middle East.

“The conventional 19th and 20th century western narrative was of brave European explorers searching unknown lands. Ibn Battuta doesn’t neatly fit into that model partly because he’s not a European and because his journeys reveal just how much of the world was already known to the Islamic civilisation before the great European explorations of the late 15th and 16 th centuries,” Brooks explains. “Fortunately, he is also much better known outside of the Middle East and North Africa now than he was 20 years ago.”

With renewed interest in his stor y, Ibn Battuta still remains an important symbol of the impact of Islamic civilisation across cent u r ies a nd t he remarkable results of man’s exploration of the globe.

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Experience

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADHAM SNEEH

Budding at t raction

A whimsical world of beautiful blooms and sprawling f loral displays, Dubai Miracle Garden is an attractive addition to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budding green scene. A haven of tranquility in the heart of the city, visitors are bound to be enthralled by the vibrant landscape. When: Weekdays from 9am to 9pm, weekends 9am to 11pm Price: AED30 Visit: dubaimiraclegarden.com

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MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

Watch Concierge’s exclusive video footage of the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team in Cape Town

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V O LV O OCE A N RA CE / E XPE R IE NCE

In their element Concierge joins Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing in Cape Town and discovers renewed admiration for some of the world’s toughest athletes

Brave men battle through wind, rain and icy storms for weeks on end. They rest in shifts, cruelly awoken after a couple of hours of sleep to start work again in amazingly cramped conditions. And those are good days, because on others, they will get no sleep at all. This is the life of every athlete competing in the Volvo Ocean Race.

Founded as the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973, Volvo Ocean Race is sailing’s greatest offshore competition and the longest sporting event in the world.

There’s no other race where man is not just pitted against man, but also against nature in such a raw and frantic manner.

In each of the seven Volvo Ocean Race teams, a crew of nine – including one onboard reporter – call a 20-metre carbonfibre boat home for nearly nine months as they circumnavigate their way across the globe. Before the action comes to a close in June, teams will have sailed across Africa, Asia, Australasia, the Americas and Europe and crossed four oceans.

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, the emirate’s proud entry into the race, is one of the strongest contenders having won the first leg of the race from Alicante in Spain to Cape Town. Concierge was invited to South Africa by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority to give the team the heroes’ welcome they deserved and as we joined thousands of cheering fans at the Race Village on the V&A Waterfront, it was soon clear that these men were at the helm of sporting history.

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PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

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1 Cape Town Race Village, V&A Waterfront 2 Ian Walker 3 Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing’s boat Azzam

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This is the second time that Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing is competing, having made its debut in the 2011-12 edition. The team is led by one of Britain’s most successful sailors with two Olympic medals to his name, skipper Ian Walker.

Despite the Middle East’s long maritime history, competitive sailing is still developing in the region but this relatively new team is already making waves internationally.

“With every team sailing the same boat this edition, there is more focus on the people. It all comes down to them and how they work together,” explains Knut Frostad, CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race.

“The UAE and Abu Dhabi are not new to sailing – in fact, they have a strong tradition of sailing – but that’s not very well-known around the world. I spoke to a lot of people during my time in Abu Dhabi and they really understand the race very well because sailing is close to their hearts,” Frostad adds.

UAE national Adil Khalid is one such person. Khalid is the first Arab sailor to compete in the race, making his Volvo Ocean Race debut when he was just 22 years old.

The popular Olympian sailor is back with the team as a trimmer and helmsman in an experience that he describes as a living dream.

“Sailing is my life, my passion and my dream. Honestly, I have been dreaming of sailing since I was a kid. It is something that is in my family’s blood – my grandfathers were involved with sea trading and pearl diving and they used to live next to the beach. Today, my family are very proud and fully support me during the race,” Khalid tells Concierge.

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PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

“With every team sailing the same boat this edition, there is more focus on the people. It all comes down to them and and how they work together”

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Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing’s boat is named Azzam – Arabic for determination – which Khalid embodies, especially as a strong role model for sailing within his local community.

“It is a proud moment for me when I wave the UAE flag in every port,” he adds. “I have to promote my country around the world.

I just want to show what you can achieve if you dream about it and work hard without giving up.”

While Khalid is the only UAE national on board, the team has a very global outlook with seven different nationalities in the crew in a true ref lection of Abu Dhabi’s own diverse population.

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PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

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“You’d think it would be a challenge to make everyone gel together with seven different nationalities but, in many ways, it helps. We’re not strangers – I’ve sailed around the world with some of these guys before – but we all also speak the same language, the language of international sailing,” explains Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing skipper Ian Walker.

“We choose people who support each other and have a desire to win. I think we have the right people this race and if you look at Abu Dhabi, it’s a melting pot of different nationalities in business and in public life and everything works well,” adds Walker.

PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

V O LV O OCE A N RA CE / E XPE R IE NCE

PHOTO: MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

4 Azzam sails 5 Adil Khalid 6 Team boats on V&A Waterfront, Cape Town 7 Onboard Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing’s boat Azzam

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That team spirit and camaraderie is essential when they are at sea. The race is as much a test of mental and physical strength as it is sailing prowess. Braving tropical storms is one of the biggest challenges teams face but there’s also the risk of being grounded in a remote area out at sea, ripping a sail or crashing into icebergs along the way. During the second leg of the race from Cape Town to Abu Dhabi, team Vestas Wind from Denmark had to abandon their boat after it was beached on a remote Indian Ocean reef and the crew had to be transported to safety. In a mere instant, the team’s fate took a very different course and there is still no official confirmation on whether their boat can be salvaged and repaired in time for a possible re-entry in the race.

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EXPE R IENCE/ VO LVO OCEA N RA CE

sound is difficult when there’s a lot of wind and water, but microphones and cameras are now better protected for the best quality.”

Key moments such as when Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing won the first leg from Spain to Cape Town and secured a podium finish in the second leg to Abu Dhabi are broadcasted instantly on television and online.

Teams know the race is not just about steering boats towards the f inish line.

Every decision made onboard can mean the difference between not just victory and defeat but also life and death and skippers have to bravely shoulder that responsibility.

“Steering a boat is second nature to me; I can steer it with my eyes shut. What goes through my mind all the time are questions such as: Are we best set up? Do we need to ease the sail? Are the weights in the right place? Then there’s the strategy that is worked out with the navigator. There’s a constant bombardment of questions in my mind,” says Ian Walker. “But there isn’t a second to waste – the journey has to go on.”

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PHOTO: IAN ROMAN/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING

“The Volvo Ocean Race is one of the most extreme things anyone can do. It really is one of the last adventures on the planet that is completely uncontrolled because they are entirely on their own. We don’t have a rescue boat out there with the sailors and it’s all there for the world to see on television or online,” explains Volvo Ocean Race CEO, Knut Frostad.

Having commanded a television audience of over a billion in the past, the 2014/15 edition of Volvo Ocean Race is set to break more records with a dedicated smartphone app pushing multimedia updates every few hours and a strong focus on social media engagement. Frostad explains that the introduction of the new unified boat has not just boosted competitiveness but also broadcasting capabilities.

“The challenge in the past was to fit television equipment on boats not designed for it, so it never fit perfectly. This time around we built the television system first and then the boat around it. Picking up

8 Team Alvimedica and Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing 9 Volvo Ocean Race teams

“The Volvo Ocean Race is one of the most extreme things anyone can do. It really is one of the last adventures on the planet that is completely uncontrolled because they are entirely on their own”

PHOTO: IAN ROMAN/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING

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Untitled-7 1

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PHOTO: IAN ROMAN / ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

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PHOT O E S S A Y / E XPE R IE NCE

Making waves As the Volvo Ocean Race departs from Abu Dhabi, Concierge celebrates some of the season highlights so far

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Now in its 12 th edition, Volvo Ocean Race made its debut in 1973 as the Whitbread. Today it is sailing's biggest offshore race and lasts for nearly nine months, making it the longest sporting event in the world. The 2014/15 edition began in October 2014 when seven competing teams sailed from Alicante in Spain to the picturesque destination of Cape Town for the first leg of the round the world race

PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

PHOTO: MARK CHIPPS

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PHOTO: MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing's boat is named Azzam – Arabic for determination – and the team were given a hero's welcome at the Cape Town Race Village at the V&A Waterfront when they won the first leg of the Volvo Ocean Race from Alicante in Spain to Cape Town. Celebrations were short-lived as preparations soon intensified for the second leg with teams journeying to Abu Dhabi, one of the most anticipated stopovers of the event

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PHOTO: IAN ROMAN/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

Crossing four oceans and five continents over the course of nine months, Volvo Ocean Race is not just a test of sailing prowess but also mental and physical strength with teams spending weeks at a time alone at sea and surviving on limited supplies while battling rough seas. In each team there are eight sailors that have dedicated roles as trimmers, helmsmen, navigators, bowmen, pitmen and a skipper, including one non-sailing reporter who captures the entire experience onboard

PHOTO: MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

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PHOTO: MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

PHOTO: MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

For the first time in the history of the event, all seven teams participating in Volvo Ocean Race are sailing the same boat. The new one-design Volvo Ocean 65 boat ensures a levelled playing field with access to the same technology for all teams. This means chances of winning come down to each team's skills and performance

PHOTO: MATT KNIGHTON/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

PHOTO: IAN ROMAN/ABU DHABI OCEAN RACING/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

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PHOTO: RICK TOMLINSON/TEAM SCA

PHOTO: CORINNA HALLORAN/TEAM SCA/VOLVO OCEAN RACE

All seven teams have a large fan base internationally and Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing Team boasts hundreds of thousands of social media fans but they face stiff competition. Team SCA has been in the spotlight right from the start as the first all-female team to compete in the race for over a decade. Other competitors, including Dongfeng Race Team from China, Team Brunel from Netherlands, Team Alvimedia with a double flag from Turkey and USA, Team Vestas Wind from Denmark and MAPFRE from Spain are also committed to the sport and aiming for victory.

PHOTO: GILLES MARTIN-RAGET/TEAM ALVIMEDICA

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Just 20 metres in length, every Volvo Ocean 65 boat has been built to ensure speed and withstand tough conditions, but with an added focus on multimedia. There are five fixed camera positions and two uplink points that offers coverage from all angles onboard and equipment is well protected from wind and water.

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VOLVO OCEAN RACE/GETTY IMAGES

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As teams depart Abu Dhabi in January and sail towards Sanya in China for Leg 3 of the Volvo Ocean Race, every sailor onboard knows that there are a lot more challenges and adventures in store before that final In-Port race in Gothenburg in Sweden on June 27. By then all the teams would have sailed across Africa, Asia, Australasia, the Americas and Europe and crossed four oceans to circumnavigate their way around the world

With special thanks to Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, Volvo Ocean Race and Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing

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New year, new you If the festive season has taken its toll, it’s time to wipe the slate clean and inject some much needed vitality with a rejuvenating treatment at these top spas

So Spa Instantly inviting, So Spa’s lush ‘living wall’ foliage, soft mood lighting and plush indoor pools create the perfect setting for what promises to be an ultra-relaxing spa experience. As many mums-to-be will know, spa treatments are often limited during pregnancy, which is why So Spa’s newly launched pre-natal massage is such a brilliant find. Easing away the aches and pains usually associated with pregnancy, the treatment involves a skilled therapist using light massaging movements to target pressure points along the back, shoulders and legs. Lying comfortably on your side, a nourishing slick of sesame oil is soothed over the length of the body, giving tired, dehydrated skin a boost of moisture and a gorgeous, subtle sheen. Once the same has been repeated on the righthand side, it’s time to settle in for a calming facial.

Another treatment sure to pique the interest of those looking for some post-holiday pampering is the luxurious Amethyst and Volcanic Stone Massage. Using a combination of hot and cooled stones on key energy points, this ultra-relaxing massage will leave guests feeling fabulously refreshed.

For improved skin detoxification, semiprecious amethyst stones are also gently

massaged onto the face. Elsewhere, despite the city’s now cooler climes it’s fortunate enough to be blessed with an abundance of sunny winter afternoons and So Spa’s sun-kissed infinity pool is great for enjoying a spot of post-treatment tea. For guests who fancy a dip indoors, try a soak in the jet-powered Experience Pool, or revive the senses by slipping into the spa’s chilly Plunge Pool.

Where: Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa Price: Pre-natal massage AED500 for a 50-minute treatment / Amethyst Volcanic Stone Massage AED850 for a 90-minute treatment Contact: 04 4555433

Inspired by Palm Jumeirah’s picturesque vistas, Waldorf Astoria Spa is ideal for guests in search of fivestar pampering in swanky surroundings Waldorf Astoria Spa Inspired by Palm Jumeirah’s picturesque vistas, Waldorf Astoria Spa is ideal for guests in search of five-star pampering in swanky surroundings. Commenting on the exclusive range of beauty products that have been incorporated into many of the spa’s treatments, spa manager, Dr Natalie Ivanusic, reveals: “We’ve taken great care in

selecting unique formulations with exquisite ingredients. We are proud to say that we carry some of the rarest products within the region.” If an overindulgent holiday season has left you feeling sluggish, try the Hamman Detoxifying Mud Wrap. A popular Middle Eastern healing ritual, a steamy hammam session opens up the skin’s pores and intensifies the detoxification process. A fragrant mint body cleanse and foam massage then delivers an refreshing body polish before a jasmine wrap is lathered over the body to draw out toxins and impurities. While the wrap works its magic, guests are treated to a slumber-inducing head massage. Then, once the body has been buffed and bathed, the session draws to a close with an enveloping dose body of decadent fig butter cream.

Where: Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah Price: AED625 for an 80-minute treatment Contact: 04 8182245

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S PA S / E XPE R IE NCE

Spa Zen

Spa InterContinental Start the year off by putting your best face forward with the help of Spa InterContinental’s Diamond Multi-sensorial Lifting facial. Using what is referred to as ‘frozen DNA’ (essentially a powerful serum boasting marine DNA) this resultdriven facial is designed to stimulate the skin and promote its natural vitality and radiance. First up, a glycol peel is applied to the face. Infused with fruit acid, it acts as an exfoliant to remove dead skin leaving it perfectly prepped for the serum that follows. Part of Natura Bissé’s popular Diamond skincare range, the powerful anti-aging formulation is smoothed on using

massage techniques in an upward, ‘lifting’ motion. This process aides in rebuilding the skin and helps protect it from further damage. While the targeted treatment provides instant results, those wishing to maintain a post-holiday glow should talk with a therapist about follow-up visits and at-home care. Spa InterContinental also promotes Asian and Arabic holistic therapies and features ten private treatment suites, a VIP couples room and separate relaxation suites for men and women.

Located just off Sheikh Zayed Road, Raddison Royal Hotel is fantastic for those seeking a serene inner-city haven. Boasting minimalist Eastern décor, expect soft shades and sleek, contemporary finishes. While the extensive spa menu offers several services for those faced with a time crunch, the lavish Zen Royal Indulgence package delivers over two hours of premium pampering.

The experience begins with a tender foot bath before a fragrant pomegranate and cranberry body scrub gets to work ridding the skin of dead cells through a gentle exfoliation. The therapist then adopts stimulating Hungarian massage techniques to melt away tensions and encourage an ultra-relaxed state of mind. During this time the body is treated with a pure blend of healing essential oils and an Asian herbal compress. Once you’re feeling suitably relaxed, the session rounds off with a hydrating facial that aims to revive the visage and seal in a youthful glow. Before bracing the bustle of city life, guests are encouraged to extend their experience with a trip to the spa’s sauna, steam rooms and Jacuzzi.

Where: Radisson Royal Hotel / Price: AED725 for a 135-minute treatment / Contact: 04 3080531

Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City Price: AED895 for a 90-minute treatment Contact: 04 7011257

Kirana Spa & Health Club Kirana Spa & Health Club takes its holistic lead from its ancient Sanskrit name, which means ‘ray of sunlight’. Focusing on its core philosophy of enlightening the mind, body and spirit, most of the treatments available borrow from time-honoured Balinese traditions while also boasting organic ingredients, uplifting aromatic oils and a host of native herbs. For an all-encompassing body overhaul, opt for the spa’s signature ‘Indah’ Balinese massage. Hailing from Indonesia, the deeply relaxing treatment employs various stimulating techniques,

including skin rolling, kneading and stroking, along the body’s pressure points, while a blend of essential oils encourages soft, supple skin. The word ‘Indah’ translates as feeling beautiful, which is the exact sentiment this restorative treatment aims to evoke. For guests eager to keep up their fitness regime, head to the health club’s fully-equipped gym, tennis courts and rooftop pool.

Where: Warwick Dubai Hotel Price: AED380 for a 60-minute treatment or AED520 for 90-minutes / Contact: 04 5069600

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-Soha on Slitherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Slides

#LiveToTellTheTale yaswaterworld.com

Live the ultimate water adventure. Yas Waterworld brings you 45 rides, slides and attractions worth talking about. So experience the excitement at the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mega waterpark, then go online and tell your friends you #LiveToTellTheTale

Taste Elegant dining

Following the success of its Emirates Towersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; venue, The Rib Room has found a second home among the plush surroundings of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah. Boasting sumptuous interiors and an intimate ambience, the famed steakhouse encourages guests to indulge their inner carnivore with a specially created menu of impeccably prepared prime cuts. Contact: 04 4530444

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World on 44, Warwick Hotel Dubai

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A sense of place Concierge embarks on a culinary journey across Latin America, at some of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine-dining restaurants

L a t i n Am eri c an D i n i n g/ T A S T E

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World on 44: Peruvian Peruvian cuisine is famed for its diversity as dishes draw inspiration from Inca populations and European immigrants who made the country their home many years ago. Embracing this medley of influences, World on 44 serves a mixture of classic and contemporary Peruvian and Mediterranean dishes. The tapas menu is full of Peruvian delicacies such as: squid salteado, sautéed squid served on pan-fried saffron paella rice quenelle known as ‘tacu-tacu’; and croquettes de yuka huancaína, served with yellow pepper and melted cheese sauce. Ceviche is a particularly famous Peruvian dish and diners would do well to try the seabass and palta ceviche; a classic from the Peruvian Pacific coast served with avocado. For mains, the menu boasts a variety of meat courses

such as ox cheek braised in a Peruvian liquor, alongside seafood options and Mediterranean rice dishes such as paella de quinoa; a modern take on traditional Spanish paella.

While the menu is excellent, World on 44 is also well worth a visit for the views. Positioned on the 44th floor of Warwick Hotel Dubai, the venue offers 360-degree panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf.

Where: Warwick Hotel Dubai / Contact: 04 5069600

Argentina is home to a multitude of nationalities and, as such, its cuisine takes on a multi-cultural twist

La Parrilla: Argentinean Argentinean cuisine makes full use of the country’s local produce. Livestock is prevalent and so beef is the unofficial national dish.

The Argentine barbecue is a national treasure and La Parrilla brings the famed concept to Dubai. The pride of the restaurant’s menu is its grills and premium beef-cut selections.

The wagyu beef comes highly recommended on the cuts section, while highlights of the grill menu include hacha de costilla ribeye that’s carved at your table, slow-cooked grilled short ribs and lamb rack prepared with Andean herbs. Meat-lovers with ample appetites can sample a number of steaks by choosing the 600-gram Los Filetes tenderloin platter containing choice cuts of wagyu, Angus and Argentinean beef. The country

is home to a multitude of nationalities and, as such, its cuisine takes on a multi-cultural twist. A Mediterranean influence is prevalent at La Parrilla in the variety of seafood options including John Dory, halibut, mussels, jumbo prawns and South American seafood rice. The seafood speciality, however, is the platos de espada: a sumptuous swordfish dish prepared at the table.

For something a little different try La Parrilla’s popular ‘Butcher’s Night’ on Sundays when visitors can sample a variety of special beef cuts that aren’t usually found on the regular daily menu.

Where: Jumeirah Beach Hotel Contact: 04 4068999

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LAT I N A ME RI CA N D I N I N G/ T A S T E

Loca: Mexican The geographical location of Mexico is central to understanding of the roots of its national cuisine. Warm temperatures and the tropical climate mean the country is rich in lush farmland. As such, chefs have little need to import produce and instead use ingredients that can be farmed on local lands, such as corn, beans, chilli peppers, squashes and avocados. These staples are combined to create simple yet flavoursome recipes that are frequently reproduced worldwide, including in the UAE. Loca is an established Mexican restaurant in Dubai’s Jumeirah district. The menu contains a wealth of Central American favourites such as quesadillas, enchiladas, flautas, nachos and ceviche alongside in-house specialities such as guejerro chilli

and Loca’s ribs with de la olla beans and rice. Chefs also serve a number of Mexican delicacies such as queso fundido. The dish, which is essentially melted manchego cheese with tortillas, grilled beef and jalapenos or vegetables, is sweeping the world’s culinary scene. Certainly worthy of a mention is Loca’s guacamole. An excellent choice to begin the meal, the popular dip is prepared tableside so guests can see the way chefs grind and mash the fresh ingredients together. This is a real treat for cooking enthusiasts and provides some excellent tips to take home and continue the Mexican dining experience long after leaving the restaurant.

Where: Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Contact: 04 3493455

Fogueira: Brazilian In Brazil, a churrascaria is an all-you-can-eat barbecue steak house, also known as Rodizio.

Fogueira recently brought this popular concept to Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence in Dubai. Setting the scene with traditional-style wooden décor and Brazilian entertainment, the ambience is both homely and lively. Dinner begins with a selection of appetisers, salads, cheeses and cured meats from a well-stocked salad buffet bar.

After the first course, the fun really begins.

As guests unwind, passadores carry 15 varieties of meat around the restaurant on giant skewers, carving off slices to suit. Meat at a churrascaria is traditionally roasted with charcoal, leaving a juicy texture and a flavoursome smoky edge. The restaurant`s signature is the picanha (beef rump cap), while other prime meats include a variety of beef and lamb cuts plus chicken skewers and grilled pineapple. At each place setting, diners will find a card that’s green on one side and red on the other. These are signals for the waiters.

If you’ve had your fill, turn it to red until you’re ready to continue sampling the food. The dining experience ends with a dessert buffet where the highlight is homemade brigadeiros – Brazilian chocolate bonbons.

Book a table on a Thursday or Friday evening and enjoy a samba dancing show by Brazileiras Milla and Martina. The rest of the week, excluding Sunday, sees live music in the evenings. Guests can enjoy the Fogueira dining experience in a brunch setting on Friday afternoons with entertainment from performing duo Giselle and Diego.

Where: Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence Contact: 04 4398888

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The guide SHOP / DISCOVER / EXPERIENCE / TASTE

MALLS / SOUKS / MARKETS / ART GALLERIES CITY TOURS / CULTURE / MUSEUMS ADVENTURE / FAMILY ACTIVITIES / SPORTS HOTEL OUTLETS AND PROMOTIONS / CITY DINING

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Shop

1

From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shoppers' dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

Though not a mall, this picturesque 1.7km-long beachside shopping promenade, is home to nearly 200 retailers including Boots, Boutique One, Zadig et Voltaire and Aiyanna of London.

The views are also stunning.

Dubai

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm,Thu and Fri 10am to 1am Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 3887000

04 4361020

Spread over four levels, the mall is home to 160 stores dedicated to fashion, jewellery and home furnishings with waterfront dining and a children’s area.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

IBN BATTUTA MALL

04 3621900

Inspired by the Arab traveller Ibn Battuta, the mall is home to designer shops, Woolworths and a multi-screen cinema complex.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1 MALL OF THE EMIRATES

04 4099000

Find the world’s largest indoor ski slope nestled among 350 shops, children’s entertainment areas and a cinema.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B2

Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre, Gate Village is home to a range of high-end stores.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1 LAMCY PLAZA

04 3359999

19TH CENTURY ANTIQUES

A stunning selection of antique paintings, furntiure and sculpture at this magnificent space in Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10.30pm, Thu to Sat 10 to 12.30am Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2

Timings: Sat to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri 12 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3198732

An elegant mall featuring 50 premium boutiques and fine-dining restaurants spread over two floors.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BURJUMAN

04 3520222

This mall is one for label lovers with Saks Fifth Avenue, Chanel, Dior, Versace, Kenzo, Ralph Lauren, Furla and more.

MERCATO

04 3444161

A Renaissance-styled mall on Jumeirah Beach Road with a wide variety of brands such as Pandora, Gant and Virgin Megastore.

2

OASIS CENTRE

04 5154000

This four-storey mall spans 134,000 sq m and houses 77 stores, including Carrefour Express and Fun City.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz or Business Bay Map reference: C2 PALM STRIP

04 3461462

CITYWALK, JUMEIRAH

Timings: Mon to Thu 10am to

Get some beach action before browsing the shops at Palm Strip – a two-storey open mall with designer shops and restaurants.

04 5114670

10pm, Fri 2 to 10pm, Sat to Sun 10am to 10pm Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1

Timings: 10am to10pm weekdays,10am to midnight weekends.

Metro: Business Bay Map reference: C1

04 3627500

Dubai is peppered with world-renowned shopping malls and those in the market for a bit of retail therapy should direct their attention to Mall of the Emirates, which offers a large selection of designer brands including Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Burberry (pictured). The mall is also home to Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski slope. For details visit malloftheemirates.com

2

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm.

Metro: Business Bay Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to 11pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

BUYING TIME

LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB JAN15.indd 90

04 3622222

A mix of brands caters to the needs of the entire family with stores such as Bhs, Camaeiu, The Body Shop and Rivoli Watches.

One of Dubai's newest shopping areas, this charming al fresco mall offers chic boutiques and stores.

90

GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

1 Galeries Lafayette Dubai 2 Chloé, The Dubai Mall 3 Diane Von Furstenberg A/W 2014 4 Boulevard at Emirates Towers

THE DUBAI MALL

The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. In addition to over 1,200 shops, this mall is home to an Olympicsized ice rink and aquarium.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 THE VILLAGE

04 3494444

A selection of boutiques such as s*uce and Candella, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1

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T HE GUI D E / S HOP

TIMES SQUARE

04 3418020

A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion

BOUTIQUE SHOPPING

Timings: Sat to Wed

SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

A bargain hunter’s dream, covering 93,000 sq m of discount shopping 20 minutes out of town on the Dubai – Al Ain highway.

Featuring 75 boutique shops and craft stalls set in a bazaar environment overlooking the scenic waterways of the adjacent hotel complex.

04 4234666

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3

10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2 WAFI

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

04 3244555

3

DUBAI OUTLET MALL

This Egyptian-themed shopping haven has over 200 designer stores with 1,000 fashion brands including Miss Sixty, Chanel and Escada.

800 6422

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: E3

Dubai Festival City/Deira

06 5316611

The newest addition to Dubai’s shopping scene, this largely residential mall is home to 350 brands including Zara, Massimo Dutti and Pull & Bear.

SAHARA CENTRE

Located in Sharjah, the mall is best for lifestyle shopping with sporting goods, toys, cosmetics, jewellery and home furnishings from leading retailers.

AL GHURAIR CITY

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya

80024227

With 200 retail outlets, Dubai’s first mall offers a great range of value fabrics, alongside high-street favourites.

Timings: Sat to Wed10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

04 3668888

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1 SPICE SOUK Brimming with sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the spice souk is a feast for the senses.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 TEXTILE SOUK Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester.

Cotton is harder to find.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

MARKETS

SOUKS

ARABIAN CENTRE

04 2845555

Home to more than 200 fashion, perfume, homefurnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10.30pm, Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3 DEIRA CITY CENTRE

04 2951010

Great for bargains, this popular mall features well-known brands such as Debenhams, Benetton, Shoemart and Next.

3

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Deira City Centre Map reference: E2 DRAGONMART

04 4336200

Built in the shape of a dragon, this 1.2km mall is one of the largest trading hubs for Chinese products outside China.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: E3 DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 2325444

Covering 204,000 sq m, this retail resort is home to 550 shops including Marks & Spencer. There is also a Community Arts Market.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Emirates Map reference: E2

Dubai boutiques offer something a little special o’de rose o’de rose is one the city’s most unique boutiques. Stocking a combination of ready-to-wear fashion, jewellery, interiors and art, the store focuses on handmade bespoke products that represent Arabic heritage with a modern twist. Boutiques can be found at Al Wasl Road and Galeries Lafayette, The Dubai Mall.

Contact: 04 3487990 The Odd Piece A unique home design store at Wasl Square that exhibits oneof-a-kind furniture, refurbished vintage pieces and eclectic home accessories that have been sourced and hand-selected from across the globe.

Contact: 04 3883733 s*uce A contemporary multi-brand fashion and lifestyle company, s*uce has several stores across the UAE exhibiting wares from bespoke dresses to quirky home décor.

Contact: 03 3399696

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

800 33232

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

Located in Times Square shopping mall, this small market sells handcrafted jewellery, accessories and contemporary UAE art.

Timings: Noon to 7pm every second Friday of the month Metro: First Gulf Bank Map reference: C2 GOLD SOUK Comprising more than 300 retailers, this traditional souk is one of Dubai’s oldest trading areas and one of its biggest attractions.

Timings: Daily 10am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 KHAN MURJAN

Open every first Friday of the month, this market held in Dubai Festival City, brings together artists and craftsmen. This is the place to shop for works of art.

Timings: Every first Friday of the month, 4 to 11pm Map reference: E2 COVENT GARDEN MARKET DUBAI

050 2445795

Artisans from across the emirate congregate at this market, located in The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, to sell their wares which range from souvenirs from the region to one-off pieces of art.

Timings: Wed and Thu 5pm to midnight, Fri and Sat 10am to 9pm Map reference: A1

04 3244555

Modelled on an ancient 14th century souk, Khan Murjan has more than 150 stalls offering traditional arts and crafts.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 SOUK AL BAHAR

04 3627011

Browse more than 100 boutiques before admiring views of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and The Dubai Fountain.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2

IN THE KNOW Major credit cards are accepted in most shops and outlets.

There are many ATMs around the city and foreign currencies and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged in licensed offices, hotels and banks. A passport is required.

LABEL STABLE Aigner, TDM, MOE Alexander McQueen FA, MOE Armani Collezioni BV, FA Balenciaga BV, MOE Bally TDM Boutique 1 MOE, TW Brioni FA, MOE Bugatti BJ, MOE, Wafi Bulgari BV, MOE, TDM Burberry BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Calvin Klein BJ, FA, Wafi Calvin Klein Underwear DCC, DFC, MOE Carolina Herrera FA, MOE Cartier BJ, BV, MOE, TDM Cerruti 1881 Wafi Chanel BJ, FA, Wafi Christian Lacroix BJ Christian Louboutin FA, MOE Chloé FA Dior BJ, FA, MOE Dunhill DFC, TDM DKNY BJ, MOE, TDM Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE Elie Saab FA Emporio Armani BV, MOE, FA Ermano Scervino TDM Ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE Escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Etro TDM, MOE, BJ Etoile La Boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio Armani BV, MOE, TDM Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo Boss BJ, FA, MOE John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA, MOE Kenzo BJ, FA Lancel TDM Lanvin BV, FA Louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi Prada BJ, MOE, TDM Ralph Lauren BJ, FA, MOE Roberto Cavalli FA, MOE, Wafi Rocco Barocco DMM, TDM, Wafi Salvatore Ferragamo BJ, FA, MOE Saks Fifth Avenue BJ Stella McCartney FA, MOE Tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Van Cleef & Arpels TDM, MOE Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Yves Saint Laurent BV, MOE, TDM BJ BurJuman (04 3520222) BV Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 3198999) DCC Deira City Centre, (04 2954486) DFC Dubai Festival City, (04 2325444) DMM Dubai Marina Mall, (04 4361000) FA Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422) MOE Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747) TDM The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) TW The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 3900091) Wafi Wafi Mall (04 3244555)

91

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1

Discover

Dubai is one of the world’s most modern and dynamic destinations, with a fascinating heritage very much alive and waiting to be discovered

ART GALLERIES

1X1 ART GALLERY

04 3411287

Located in Al Quoz, this established gallery showcases international mixed media and is a big favourite with Dubai's budding art scene.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ART SAWA

04 3408660

A showcase of regional contemporary art with a library and video lounge for artists and art enthusiasts to interact. Art Sawa recently opened a second gallery space in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ARTSPACE

04 3230820

A contemporary gallery displaying the works of international and local talent in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am

to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: D1 AYYAM GALLERY

04 4392395

GALLERY 76

OPERA GALLERY

Showcases paintings, sculptures and photography from local emerging and international artists.

With operations all over the world, the gallery showcases the work of great masters as well as new talent.

04 3444398

Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to 6pm, Thu 9am to 4pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri and Sat 11am to 9pm.

Closed Fri Map reference: D1

GALLERY ETEMAD

04 3450900

04 3468649

Exhibits striking artwork that features in museums and international collections.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm, Sat 10am to 2pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 GALLERY ISABELLE VAN DEN EYNDE

The oldest gallery in Dubai, the Green Art Gallery showcases contemporary art with a focus on regional work.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 LAWRIE SHABIBI

04 3469906

Founded by the former head of sales of Christie’s Middle East and the former MD of Art Dubai, the gallery showcases works by regional artists.

CARBON 12

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

MAJLIS GALLERY

This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists. to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

MARSAM MATTAR

Timings: Sat 11.30am to 6pm, Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri. Map reference: C2 THE THIRD LINE

04 3411367

Exhibitions by artists from the Middle East, with a schedule of events both in the gallery warehouse and outside locations.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 TOTAL ARTS

MEEM GALLERY

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

04 3477883

One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri and Sat. Map reference: B2

3

Spanning two floors and 10,000 sq m, Total Art specialises in artists and art influenced by the culture of the Middle East.

04 3470209

An area of 4,000 sq m dedicated to international contemporary art in the heart of Gate Village, DIFC.

2

04 3475050

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm, Sat 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

THE MOJO GALLERY

Mojo focuses on contemporary exhibitions of original paintings, conceptual photography, digital media prints, illustrations, video art, installation pieces and sculptures.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

Founded in 2003, this Arabic gallery is located off Mankhool Road in Bur Dubai.

1 Dubai Creek 2 Spice souk 3 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood 4 Dubai Marina skyline

04 3477388

04 3988331

CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY

04 4250400

SHOWCASE GALLERY

04 3790940

GREEN ART GALLERY

04 3469305

04 3536233

to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

Timings: Sat 12 to 6pm, Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm.

Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2

Timings: Sat to Thu 11.30am

One of Dubai’s newest art galleries, Pro Art sells some of the most carefully curated contemporary art in the global market.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

Local and international artists exhibit at this well-known gallery in the Al Serkal district

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

With regular exhibitions this gallery features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.

PRO ART GALLERY

Located at Alserkal Avenue, Showcase was one of the first galleries to be established in the UAE in the 1990s and has a venerable reputation with art collectors and designers.

04 3235052

Representing some of the Arab world’s leading and emerging artists, Ayyam promotes contemporary Middle Eastern art.

04 3406016

04 3230909

TRAFFIC

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

XVA GALLERY

04 3535383

Art buffs with love this ultramodern gallery, where modern art is on show in a 2,500 sq ft gallery in Gate Village in DIFC. Current exhibitions include work

by Yazid Oulab and Sami Al Karim

Timings: Daily 10am to 6pm Map reference: E1

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T HE GUI D E / DIS COVE R

CITY TOURS

CREEK CRUISES

055 2217049

Choose four-star cuisine with lively entertainment, or a more tranquil option with five-star catering by the Taj Palace Hotel.

ART SCENE

CULTURE

Timings: 7.30pm to 10pm Guide price: From AED125 CREEKSIDE LEISURE

Air HELIDUBAI

04 2081455

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter.

Tours include trips over the city, desert and during the evening.

Timings: Contact Helidubai for details Guide price: Heritage tour AED595 per person (12 minutes) FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4448866

This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.

Timings: Flights depart from

9am to 5pm daily (except Tue) Guide price: Prices start from AED800 (20 minutes), AED3,350 for up to six people SEAWINGS

04 8070708

Fly from Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in the south west or Dubai Creek in the north east and explore the city from up high.

Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,395 per person (40 minutes)

Water AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE

04 3243000

Traditional Arabian dhows take guests on cruises each evening, with a banquet of food included in the price.

Timings: Daily 8 to 10pm

and 10.30pm to 12.30am.

Boarding at 8pm Guide price: AED160 Map reference: E2 AL MANSOUR DHOW

04 2057033

This five-star dhow from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers international cuisine, alcoholic beverages and live entertainment.

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm.

Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED185 ART MARINE

04 3388955

Cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Creek with Art Marine chartered yachts.

Timings: From 7am

into the night Guide price: From AED750 per hour

04 3368406

Hire a dhow with dinner and transfers, plus butler service and enjoy unlimited beverages.

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

Timings: Daily boarding 8.30pm Guide price: AED200 dinner cruise

04 3414777

Located at Mall of the Emirates, this centre brings together a wide variety of performing and visual arts including drama, dance, opera, comedy and children’s shows.

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3511117

Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charters are available.

Map reference: B2

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm.

Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 for an evening dhow cruise

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3666549

This 442-seat luxury venue hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film.

WONDERBUS

04 3595656

This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up Dubai Creek for an hour-long cruise.

Guide price: AED160 adults;

AED115 children (3-11 years); AED500 family (two adults and two children)

Land JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR

04 3536666

Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves when visiting the mosque.

Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and Thu for one hour between 10am and 11.15am Guide price: AED10 Map reference: D1 AL FAROOQ OMAR BIN AL KHATTAB MOSQUE

04 3944448

Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Umm Suqeim is one of only a few mosques in the city open to non-Muslims. Tours run three times a week.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am. Closed Fri Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: C1 THE BIG BUS COMPANY

04 3407709

If your stay in the emirate is short, you might not have time to take in the sights under your own steam.

For an organised tour, why not hop aboard a double-decker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck?

Timings: Tours depart

every 20 minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide price: Day tour – AED220 adults, AED100 children, AED540 family.

Night tour – AED125 adults, AED75 children, AED375 family (two adults and two children)

Amongst Dubai’s many world-famous attractions lies a largely unexplored artistic quarter where understated industrial units belie a vibrant cultural scene waiting to be discovered.

Al Quoz is brimming with art galleries, museums and studios as the creative space has grown in recent years to become Dubai’s main cultural hub.

Artists gather here to present work and exchange ideas at around 20 galleries, which represent an eclectic mix of international styles and genres.

A focal point of the artistic activity here is Alserkal Avenue, which occupies a one-block radius and is made up of myriad interconnected streets.

Renowned exhibition spaces such as Carbon 12 Dubai, Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde and Green Art Gallery call Alserkal Avenue home while the area also boasts the first private museum in the area, Salsali Private Museum.

Elsewhere, The Courtyard is an eclectic space where visitors can expect film screenings, art workshops and a weekly farmers’ and crafts market alongside regular exhibitions.

Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

04 3536666

Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE.

Timings: Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide price: Breakfast AED70, lunch AED80.

Reservations essential Map reference: E1

MUSEUMS

A TASTE OF CULTURE Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding offers the chance to join in a traditional Emirati breakfast or lunch. The meals are hosted at the centre which is located in the city’s oldest quarter, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Guests are welcomed to the feasts by Emirati hosts who are on hand to answer questions on any aspect of life in the UAE as Arabic delicacies are enjoyed including, dates, Arabic coffee and spiced meat and fish dishes. Breakfasts take place on Monday and Wednesday, lunch takes place on Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm and cultural dinners are also available on Tuesday evenings at 7pm. Visit: cultures.ae

DUBAI MUSEUM

SALSALI PRIVATE MUSEUM

Dubai’s most comprehensive museum features a rich collection of aerial photographs of 'old' Dubai, an assortment of multimedia exhibits and a wide variety of artefacts.

This museum, located inside the impressive Al Fahidi Fort, provides visitors with an in-depth history of the emirate.

As the first private museum for contemporary art in the region, this important venue provides a key platform for new and established collectors.

04 3531862

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children Map reference: E1 AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE

04 2260286

Learn about the education system of yesteryear at Al Ahmadiya School & Heritage House. Located in Deira in the north east, visit Dubai’s first school and traditional house, which is home to fascinating life-size dioramas.

HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE

04 3937151

This museum, where Emiratis prepare local food and perform dances to Arabic music, provides a glimpse of a bygone era, when pearl trading and fishing were the emirate's main source of revenue.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 8.30pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 10pm, Fri 3.30 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

Located next to the spice souk, the museum contains rare manuscripts of royal and administrative decrees and photographs and provide a glimpse of times gone by. This is definitely one for culture vultures and history buffs to try out.

A peaceful majlis with antique interior ornaments in Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s former summer residence.

04 3453636

Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 3pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

04 3946343

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to

8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1

04 3809600

Timings: Sun to Thu 11am to 6pm. Closed Fri. Sat 1pm to 5pm.

Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

04 3937139

Wander around this restored house and see fascinating paraphernalia including old photographs and currency of Dubai.

Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 9pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED2 adults, AED1 children Map reference: C2

IN THE KNOW: LOCAL DIALECT Arabic is the official language of the UAE, although English is widely understood. Using some common Arabic phrases is appreciated: Marhaba – Hi or welcome Shukran – Thank you Ma’asalama – Goodbye

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Experience

1

With a vast desert, spectacular coastline and world-class sports facilities, Dubai is full of fun-packed tours and activities

ATTRACTIONS

EL MUNDO

050 5517406

Charter a 60-foot catamaran or book a Friday Fun in the Sun Cruise for AED250 per adult.

Timings: From 2.30pm Guide price: Adults

AED250, children AED210 FIRST YACHT

04 3754148/050 6550313

Cruising

Range of options from speedboat rides to refined electric boat cruises.

Individual hotels and tour operators can also organise pleasure cruises on request

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED200

AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 2394760

Charter an exclusive yacht and sail past modern icons including Palm Jumeirah and The World islands.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED500 per hour ART MARINE

04 3388955

Set sail from Jumeirah Beach Hotel and cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Creek.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details BATEAUX DUBAI

04 3994994

Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner.

Timings: Daily boarding at 7.45pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11pm Guide price: AED395 CLUB MINA

04 3993333

As well as fishing trips, Club Mina offers all kinds of exciting or relaxing cruising options.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3511117

A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters.

Timings: 8.30am to 10.30pm Guide price: AED200 DUBAI FERRY

800 9090

A novel way to see the city’s sights. Routes include journeys past Palm Jumeirah.

Timings: Daily from 9am Guide price: AED50 for

silver, AED75 for gold DREAMDAYS

800 2080

Take a four-hour catamaran cruise along Dubai’s coastline and enjoy a barbecue lunch as well as snorkelling.

Timings: Every Monday Guide price: AED295

04 2629993

Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

DESERT RANGERS TOURS & ADVENTURE SPORTS

04 3572233

A range of exciting desertbased activities are available such as camel trekking, desert driving and rock climbing.

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

055 8838833

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available.

LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

04 3344330/04 3357676

Journey to a Bedouin campsite, ride a camel, smoke shisha together with a range of other desert-based activities.

04 3764333/056 1718881

per person

SUMMERTIME MARINE

OASIS PALM TOURISM

See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36 feet to 180 feet.

Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details THE YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

Adrenaline-pumping tours around Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab hotel in bright yellow inflatable crafts.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Adults from

AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3464194/050 1002477

Charter a variety of yachts with numerous capacities for a number of hours.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

04 3572200

Hop aboard the Arabian dhow for a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise.

Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: From AED230 for adults and AED150 for children. Call for details on daytime cruises

Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices ARABIAN ADVENTURES

04 2999499/052 8110797

Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding.

2

04 2629993

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6289667

Offers excursions including dinner at a Bedouin camp, overnight camping and trips to Liwa.

ORIENT TOURS

04 2828238

Expect innovative desert trips, tours between Dubai and Muscat and adventurous expeditions.

4

ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS

04 2999339

Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite.

TRAVCO

04 3366643

Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.

Flying ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

Discover Dubai from the sky and marvel at a long list of world-renowned landmarks.

Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED1,250

per person for 25 minutes.

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

04 2995155

Learn how to fly or top up your hours at the only approved flying school in Dubai.

Timings: From 9am to 5pm Guide price: Call for details

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

On a Hummer safari, take in an authentic Bedouin camp or a trek through the Hajar Mountains.

This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.

055 4280552/050 2986669

3

NET TOURS DUBAI

Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping.

04 2573084

1 Jumeirah Beach Residence 2 Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo 3 Camel Racing 4 Helidubai 5 Scuba diving

02 4448866

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

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Luxury Yacht Charter Select from our ďŹ&#x201A;eet of Luxury Yachts - 53ft to 86ft Come aboard our luxury yachts and experience iconic Dubai like never before from water sports to leisure getaways to classy corporate events. We offer the perfect packages to suit your needs.

Mention 'Concierge Magazine' to our customer service team and enjoy a complimentary Rolls Royce pick up for your bookings on any of our yachts from 78ft onwards.

Yacht services also available for ďŹ shing trips, sightseeing tours, luxury dinner cruise & custom events for small or large groups. not valid in conjunction with any other offer/promotion/voucher.

Call now to book your xclusive experience

04 432 7233 info@xclusiveyachts.com | www.xclusiveyachts.com

FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY

03 2224747

Take pleasure flights over the neighbouring emirate of Fujairah or enjoy a flying lesson from the fully equipped aviation centre.

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

Karting Paintballing 04 4361400/04 4361422

HELIDUBAI

04 2081455

Enjoy a spectacular bird’seye view of the sights from a helicopter.

Hunt down your adversaries in a mock medieval castle with artificial fog, moody lighting and a pumping soundtrack.

Timings: Call for timings Guide price: From

Timings: Call for timings Guide price: From AED80 for 15 minutes

SEAWINGS

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

AED595 person

04 8832999

Enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the developments around the city including Burj Khalifa.

Timings: From 9am to 4pm Guide price: AED1,395 per

person for 40 minutes

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3464194

Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999 BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

04 2854949

Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise.

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per

adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

IFLYDUBAI

DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

lessons AED1,080

Skydiving

(see Sports)

04 3244755/050 6514583

Go head to head with paintballing opponents in the heart of Dubai city at the Wonderland entertainment complex.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: Call for details SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

06 5487777

Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semi-automatic paintball guns and the latest anti-fog visor masks.

Timings: 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED80 includes

100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Shooting (see Sports)

04 2316292

Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre in Dubai Festival City.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10 to 12am Price: AED220 SKYDIVE DUBAI

04 3778888

Based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, this centre offers tandem skydiving for thrill-seeking tourists.

Timings: Mon to Sat 10am to 5pm Guide price: From AED1,750

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 4485200

Swim among 33,000 aquatic animals including sharks, giant groupers and stingrays in The Dubai Mall’s 10-million-litre tank.

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED875 for non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED675 for certified divers

Timings: Daily 8.30 to 1.30am Guide price: Adults

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED40 per hour

from AED125, children (4 to 12 years) AED95. Children aged four or under go free.

Immediate entry AED400

04 4488484

Explore five zones and 150 amusement games at the first Sega Republic indoor theme park in the region.

A brilliant light and sound show featuring Egyptianthemed graphics and a storyline depicting The Return of the Pharaohs.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Guide price: Power Pass AED175, Platinum Power Pass AED300

Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge

THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

04 3244555

800 382246255

From the foot of the world's tallest building, watch the world’s tallest dancing fountain shoot jets of water 150 metres into the air in time to music.

FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

02 4968000 ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Ride roller coasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62m into the air.

Head into the sky to glimpse the best views of the emirate.

Timings: Daily, 11am to 10pm.

Guide price: AED240 for

Helidubai Enjoy a tour of Dubai with unbeatable views in a helicopter tour of the emirate's sights.

04 2081455

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Umm Al Quwain Located 20 minutes from Ajman, Umm Al Quwain has seven forts, an impressive beach and boasts plentiful charm and tranquility.

SEGA REPUBLIC

DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

LITTLE EXPLORERS

Ras Al Khaimah The most northerly emirate of the UAE is framed by the dramatic Hajar Mountains. The emirate's history is encapsulated in the fort-based National Museum.

04 3447122

Admire unparalleled views of Dubai in this spectacular tour through the tallest building in the world.

Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to 9pm,Thu 9am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to11pm Guide price: AED 95 for children aged two to three, AED140 for four to 16-year-olds.

Sharjah A must-see for any visitor is the Sharjah Desert Park which encompasses the Natural History Museum, Children’s Farm and the Arabian Wildlife Park.

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

800 28843867

A 'mini city' in which kids can 'role play' at more than 80 adult professions including pilots, doctors and firefighters.

Fujairah A haven for adventurous beach and diving enthusiasts, Fujairah is also brimming with historic, cultural and natural attractions that give it a unique and enduring allure.

A fun and interactive family-focused amusement centre in Deira City Centre and Mall of the Emirates.

Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to seven-year-olds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.

04 4485222

Ajman The smallest emirate, Ajman, has plenty to offer, including a pristine 16-kilometre stretch of white sand beaches and the Ajman Museum, housed in an 18th century fort.

04 341444

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Th to Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: Rides vary in price.

Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, or AED100 voucher for AED40 free

BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)

KIDZANIA

Beyond the bustling cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the lesser-known emirates of the UAE are filled with national treasures that are waiting to be explored.

THE HIGH LIFE

Amusements & attractions

visitors over 1.3m tall, AED195 for visitors below 1.3m.

Premium tickets available

EXPLORING THE EMIRATES

MAGIC PLANET

Features games, tasks and facilities to test children's limits, help them discover hidden talents and develop skills.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED140 for one adult and one child

Balloon Adventures Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for an exhilarating trip that's best booked at sunrise.

04 2854949 Seawings Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Dubai from a seaplane that flies over key landmarks such as Burj Khalifa.

04 8832999 Alpha Tours Discover the emirate from the sky with Alpha Tours, which offers trips in a variety of vehicles.

04 2949888 At The Top Get a head for heights at Burj Khalifa's observation deck with excellent city views.

800 28843867

Timings: Sat to Thu 1 to 1.30pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm. Friday 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND

04 3243222

Creekside family entertainment village is a great day out for the entire family.

Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 8pm, theme park 10am to midnight Guide price: AED125 adults, AED115 children, aged two to four AED60, and younger free

Arts & crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE

04 3447331/04 2328616

Create your own piece of pottery art at Café Ceramic.

Timings: Town Centre Mall 9am to midnight, DFC 8am to midnight Guide price: ceramic prices vary from AED45 to AED200 JAM JAR

04 3417303

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm, Fri 2 to 8pm. Closed Sun Guide price: Prices start at AED85 per canvas

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6

Birdwatching

Waterparks

NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

AQUA PLAY

Learn all about the national bird of prey at the falconry centre just outside Meydan Racetrack.

Aimed at children from the age of two to eight, Dubai's latest waterpark is both fun and educational.

04 3380201

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge SNOW PENGUINS AT SKI DUBAI

04 4094000

Visitors have a rare opportunity to interact with these remarkable birds in a oneof-a-kind encounter.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight, Sat 9 to 11pm Guide price: AED150 per person

Edutainment CHILDREN’S CITY

04 3340808

An interactive science and cultural centre.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 8pm, Fri 3 to 9pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children two to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket ENCOUNTER ZONE

04 3247747

Wafi’s adventure playground for kids. Look out for 'Lunarland', 'Galatica' and the skate park.

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours

Ice skating (see Sports)

Marine adventures DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 4485200

Marvel at the diverse collection of marine life or swim with the sharks at The Dubai Mall. There are also glass-bottom boat rides for the less brave and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Combo ticket for adults AED70, combo ticket for children aged three to 12 AED50 DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3369773

Learn more about dolphins, seals and other marine life at this fully air-conditioned dolphinarium.

Timings: Shows Mon to Thu

11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children

800 LEISURE (5347873)

WATER WORLD

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight, Guide price: From AED8

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

1,239 yards, par-27)

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am

to 6pm. Fri, Sat and public holidays the park is open for families only from 10am to 8pm (no all-male groups) Guide price: AED135 adults, AED85 children

Emirates Golf Club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament, but also offers everything from fine dining to bar bites alongside top-notch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a spa.

ICELAND WATER PARK

Green fees: Majlis Course

800 WOWRAK (969725)

Sun to Thu AED995 for 18 holes, Fri to Sat AED1,100 for 18 holes. Faldo Course Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED695 for 18 holes

A sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert.

Splashland is a fun family water park near Dubai Creek featuring slides, twisters, a lazy river, water cannons and children’s activity pool.

Timings: Daily from 10am to 8pm Guide price: AED125 children ages five and above, AED60 aged two to four, below age two go free WILD WADI

04 3484444

With its central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with fun-packed rides, this water park is always a hit with adults and children of all ages.

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED245 adults; AED185 children under 1.1m, children under two go free

Golf AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010101

(7,303 yards, par-72) This championship course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED875 for 18 holes ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

04 3663000

(6,531 yards, par-72) This is a popular course with both visitors and locals, designed by Ian Baker-Finch.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED460, Fri and Sat AED550 for 18 holes(AED60 cart free added each day)

The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes and Dubai Creek on at least four holes.

04 3802222

Perfect for families and only an hour’s drive from Dubai, this large fun-filled park has a number of entertaining rides.

04 3241222

(6,800 yards, par-71)

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

06 7681888

SPLASHLAND

04 3801234

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED695 and Fri to Sat AED725 for 18 holes

DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

Timings: Sun to Wed and Fri 10am to 6pm. Thu and Sat 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m AED150. Below 1.2m AED100

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

Dubai is awash with water sports to cool down Kite surfing This sport is so popular in the UAE that the government has allocated a number of special kite-surfing beaches that cater to enthusiasts including Jumeirah's Kite Beach and Jebel Ali Beach.

When the wind picks up, kite surfers head to these popular spots to harness the power of the wind and reach speeds of up to 50 knots while performing jaw-dropping tricks.

Paddle boarding When Gulf conditions are calm, paddle boarders take to the water. A number of areas prove particularly popular for the sport, such as around the world-famous Burj Al Arab and off the coast of Palm Jumeirah.

Scuba Diving The UAE is a haven for underwater explorers and the coastal waters offer a variety of diving opportunities. Divers can uncover deep sea wrecks off the coast of Palm Jumeirah or explore coral reefs inhabited by hundreds of species of sea life in neighbouring emirate Fujairah.

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8145555

(3,299 yards, par-36, nine holes) This pretty nine-hole course features wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which roam the fairways.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED185 for 9 holes and AED275 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED210 for 9 holes and AED340 for 18 holes. Twilight rate is AED125 from approximately 5.10pm

7

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

04 3759999

Earth Course:

(7,706 yards, par-72)

Fire Course:

(7,480 yards, par-72) One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.

6 Emirates Golf Club 7 Desert safari 8 The Yellow Boats

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 (Fire Course) AED695 (Earth Course), Fri and Sat AED795 (Fire Course) AED895 (Earth Course),18 holes THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

04 3905600

(7,396 yards, par-72) One of the most luxurious golf clubs in Dubai, the Colin Montgomeriedesigned course features lakes, landscaped gardens and 81 large bunkers.

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB

04 4251010

(7,538 yards, par-72, 18 holes) Set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, this links-style course offers a challenging round.

Green fees: Daily AED895 for 18 holes

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EXPE R IEN CE/THE GUI D E

SPORTS

9

Fishing Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request.

AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2394760

Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf.

Archery HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 8523211

Think you’re Robin Hood? Put your archery skills to the test while taking in the scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.

Timings:8am to 5pm Guide price: AED50

for 30 minutes

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

The 5,000-square-metre soft sand archery range can safely accommodate up to 12 people in a group at the same time.

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED100 for 30 minutes with unlimited shots

Climbing WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

04 3240000

For an exciting and challenging rock-face experience perfect for fit and energetic types, why not head to the only state-of-the-art textured indoor climbing wall in the UAE?

Timings: Call for timings Guide price: AED75 for one

hour with an instructor THE WALL

04 3065061

It's a challenge, but at more than 15 metres high (that's nearly 50 feet), this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.

Timings: Daily 2 to 10pm Guide price: AED70

with an instructor

Diving PADI and BSAC-approved instruction is available at all levels. Hotels will organise dives on request. Freediving courses are also available.

Guide price: Two-day PADI course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,750.

Pleasure dives from AED400 AL MAHARA DIVING CENTER

02 6437377

This five-star center offers scuba diving, PADI entry-instructor level courses, snorkelling trips, StarGuard lifeguard training, learn to swim programs, mangrove kayaking and much more.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

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JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA

04 8145555

Take a group fishing trip and make the catch of the day.

Timings: Two sessions daily; 8am to midday and 2 to 6pm Guide price: Call for details NO BOUNDARIES

050 2514988

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

Book in for seafishing in southern Oman and stay the night in a lodge.

ART MARINE

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

AED500 per hour

04 3388955

Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2054646

Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details FIRST YACHT

04 3754148

Up to seven people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: From 6am onwards Guide price:AED2,300 for up

to eight people for four hours.

SET SAIL During the cooler months, there's no better time to head out into the ocean.

The UAE's coastal location and year-round sunshine make it a veritable playground for yachting enthusiasts.

The luxury lifestyle the destination is famed for is transferred to the waves where taking a cruise on a superyacht is popular with visitors looking for that extra-special experience.

Whether for a few hours or several days, there is ample opportunity to charter yachts from a number of companies, including Fancy Yachts LLC (050 454 8415), Ultimate Charter (04 3464194), First Yacht (04 3754148) and Eden Yachting (050 3716377).

As for waterfront destinations, the UAE boasts a magnificent architectural skyline.

Guests can sail all the way down the Dubai coastline from the striking neighbourhood of Dubai Marina, past iconic points such as Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa in the distance, all the way to the historic Dubai Creek.

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573084

Up to seven people can be accommodated on private fishing trips.

Timings: Call for timings Guide price: AED2,000 per hour ULTIMATE CHARTER

050 1002477

Catch your own lunch on a deep-sea fishing trip.

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1,800

9 Wild Wadi 10 Snow penguins, Ski Dubai 11 Dubai World Cup

for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee on full day trips

Horseracing The season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com

Horse riding DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

04 3618111

From show jumping and dressage to desert hacking and stable tours, the club offers a wide range of equestrian experiences.

Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED350 EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

A British Horse Societyapproved riding and training centre for all abilities.

Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing.

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Timings: Lessons from 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED165 for adult group lesson. Call for private lesson fees JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

Enjoy the natural desert surrounding in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.

Timings: Tue to Sun 7 to 10am and 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED200 for a 30-minute lesson, AED200 for a one-hour outdoor ride (experienced riders only)

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Your Unforgettable

Experience!

See Dubai at its finest from the air!

Have that memorable experience seeing the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building, the Palm, iconic Burj Al Arab and the historical architecture of Dubai.

See the World of Dubai... Book Now!

Heritage Tour 12 minute – 595 aed - feel and see the rich heritage and structures of the historic Dubai

Explorer Tour 22 minute – 895 aed - be captivated with the sceneries of the iconic landmarks of the bustling city of Dubai

Night Lights Tour 22 minute – 1095 aed - witness the beauty of Dubai at night, made possible by the latest light technology, an unforgettable experience

C a l l 8 0 0 F LY o r + 9 7 1 4 2 0 8 1 4 5 5 • t o u r s @ d a w. a e • w w w. h e l i d u b a i . c o m

Helidubai_Concierge_AD_220x275mm_16Aug14.indd 1 Untitled-1 1

8/19/14 8/21/14 8:55 9:18 PM AM

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

THE DESERT RANCH

04 8327171

This out-of-town equestrian centre offers riding lessons and desert hacks as well as the chance to meet and learn about camels.

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert riding from AED200

Ice skating AL NASR LEISURELAND

04 3371234

Cool off and burn a few calories skating around the Olympic-sized ice rink or try your hand at 10-pin bowling.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

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Mini golf

Polo

Skiing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

SKI DUBAI

04 8099333

Fun, cross country golf course and driving range with scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.

This ice skating rink at the Hyatt Regency Dubai offers professional coaching and fun for the whole family.

Timings: Sun 10.30am to 9.30pm, Mon to Sat 10am to 10pm Guide price: Sun to Wed AED35; Thu to Sat AED40 including skate hire

02 5629050

Located on the Dubai to Abu Dhabi highway, the club lets you watch polo while enjoying a meal in the clubhouse.

Non-members are welcome.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Free of charge.

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

Call for season information

Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag-racing car driven by world champion Rod 'Hot Rod' Fuller.

Sailing

Timings: See website Guide price: From

FORMULA 1™

04 2096000

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

DRAG RACING

This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.

GALLERIA ICE RINK

Guide price: Call for details

Motor sports

AED650 for two hours

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11.45pm, Thu 11.15am to 1.15am, Fri and Sat 5 to 9.45pm for public sessions Guide price: AED55 for two hours

The facility includes two polo fields, a riding school and equestrian centre.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 per hour for two people. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities

DUBAI ICE RINK

04 4485111

04 3618111

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

Experience the thrill of Formula 1, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater.

DESERT RANGERS

04 3402408

Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve.

12 Jebel Ali Golf Resort 13 Jet skiing 14 Ski Dubai

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

Timings: See website Guide price: AED1,500

04 3941669

3000 Yas Experience

Learn how to sail or improve your sailing skills with two-day courses or day training in the waters of the Arabian Gulf.

LUXURY RACING EXPERIENCE

055 3714218 or www. luxuryracingexperience.com

Guide price: AED300

Driving experiences with a wide range of top-tier cars, charged per number of laps around Dubai Autodrome.

DUSAIL

050 5517280

Take your pick from five boats that can be chartered for a day or learn to sail yourself.

Timings: See website Guide price: Drive a

Guide price: Call for details

Ferrari 458 Italia from AED790 for three laps.

SUMMERTIME MARINE

YAS RACING SCHOOL

Karting

04 2573084

Set sail on a luxury yacht ranging in size from 50 to 188ft.

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

DUBAI AUTODROME

04 3678744

The Formula 1™-standard track on the outskirts of Dubai boasts an outdoor and an air-conditioned kartdrome with hi-tech machines.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED115 EMIRATES KART CENTRE

050 4263424

The centre at Jebel Ali provides karting for everyone over the age of eight on its one-kilometre track just outside Dubai.

Timings: Sun to Wed 3 to 10pm,

Thu to Sat 3pm to midnight Guide price: AED120

Drive open-wheel, single-seat race cars, two-seat open sports cars and race-specification sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.

Guide price: AED2,000

Shooting

Timings: See website Guide price: Private tuition

starts at AED1,500

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

Mountain biking

13

Timings: Winter – Wed to Mon 1 to 9pm, summer – Wed to Mon 4 to 11pm Guide price: AED220 for 25 shots

Tour operators offer biking trips through the Hajar Mountains, with gear, lunch and pick-up provided.

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

Guide price: AED300 per person for a day’s trip. See Listings for tour operators

06 54877773

One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.

Timings: 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED180 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

RACE DAY For an exhilarating day out all of the family will enjoy, Dubai Autodrome’s Indoor Kartdome offers non-stop fun. The circuit boasts a fleet of leisure karts that deliver an excellent racing experience while ensuring safety at all times.

The state-of-the-art facility also hosts daily ‘Arrive & Drive’ sessions. Contact: 04 4361422

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An indoor and outdoor shooting academy.

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Chill out at the indoor snow park and ski slope, in Mall of the Emirates.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight, Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED150 for entry to Snow Park for adults, AED140 for children; AED200 for adults and AED170 for children for two hours on the ski slope

Water sports Hotels can organise water sports on request. Some have their own facilities.

See Taste section for hotel telephone numbers

Guide price:

Banana rides AED150 for 15 minutes Parasailing AED250 per ride Waterskiing AED300 for 30 minutes Wakeboarding AED300 for 30 minutes Windsurfing AED130 per hour

ON TRACK Each year in the emirate, the illustrious Dubai World Cup and its preceding schedule of events, attracts the horse-racing elite from around the world to compete for huge prizes.

Boasting a 1,750-metre all-weather tapeta surface track and a 2,400-metre turf track, Dubai’s purpose-built Meydan Racecourse is home to the city's annual horseracing season. The countdown to the eagerly anticipated March finale begins with the launch of Dubai World Cup Carnival on January 8, consisting of 11 race meetings spread over a three-month season.

The series of races carries a total prize value of around US$38 million (AED140 million) and offers racehorse trainers a comprehensive preparation programme, carried out on Meydan Racecourse’s dirt and turf tracks.

Meydan Grandstand is one of the largest in the world with a capacity of 60,000. Avoid the crowds and book a private box overlooking the racecourse for great views of all the action.

For details visit dubairacingclub.com

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Taste

Superb restaurants, chic cocktail bars and hip nightclubs make Dubai a stylish and sophisticated city for fine food and drink

HOTEL OUTLETS & PROMOTIONS

AL BUSTAN ROTANA

04 2820000 Garhoud

Blue Elephant showcases an array of authentic Thai dishes. Elsewhere at Choices, every Wednesday is seafood and lobster night.

Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Lebanese Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse

AL GHURAIR RAYHAAN

BY ROTANA

04 2933000 Deira

Shayan invites diners to explore the culinary delights of traditional and modern Persian cuisine. Some key hightlights on the menu include giant Omani lobster, tiger prawns and fresh salmon.

Liwan – International Shayan – Iranian Yasmin Lounge – Lounge

AL MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA

04 8329900 Desert

Al Diwaan is a popular gourmet restaurant serving an eclectic selection of international cuisine in a stunning desert setting.

Al Diwaan – Organic fine dining

AL MANZIL HOTEL

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai For an alternative ladies' night, visit sports bar Nezesaussi Grill where girls receive a free AED120 meal when ordering drinks to the value of AED50.

Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar

AL MUROOJ ROTANA – DUBAI

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Pergolas takes diners on a culinary journey through Asia with its excellent Far East Feast every Sunday from AED169 per person.

Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Lebanese Pergolas – International Circle Lobby Café – Café

AL QASR, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

AURIS PLAZA HOTEL AL BARSHA

Umm Suqeim

Al Barsha

04 3668888

04 4554800

Al Hambra offers an excellent lunch set menu including one tapas dish followed by the paella of the day and a dessert for only AED99.

Zuri has launched an allinclusive à la carte menu featuring a fusion of flavours from east and west washed down with mocktails.

Al Fayrooz Lounge – Afternoon tea Al Hambra – Spanish Arboretum – International Khaymat Al Bahar – Arabic Koubba Bar – Cocktail bar MJ'S – Steakhouse Pai Thai – Thai Pierchic – Seafood

Didon Restaurant – Arabic Zuri – Asian Auris Café – Café Hookah Lounge - Shisha, lounge

AMWAJ ROTANA

04 4282000

Jumeirah Beach Residence Brandish your chopsticks at Benihana where the finest Japanese food awaits. For gourmet Italian dishes served in a beautiful setting with views out to the Arabian Gulf, you might like to also pay a visit to Rosso.

Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian

ANANTARA DUBAI THE PALM RESORT & SPA

04 5678888

Palm Jumeirah The resort's newest eatery Bushman's Restaurant & Bar offers prime meat and fresh seafood cooked Australian style on Parilla grills and in charcoal ovens. As a unique touch, a resident salt guru helps diners select the perfect salt variety to complement their meals.

Bushman’s Restaurant & Bar – Australian Crescendo – International Mekong – Asian The Beach House - Mediterranean The Lotus Lounge - Lounge Mai Bar - Cocktails, snacks, bar

ARABIAN RANCHES HOTEL & GOLF CLUB

04 3663000 Dubai

An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine international food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. For a relaxing evening visit Birdies for some drinks and light bites at this lively sports lounge.

Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

ASIANA HOTEL

04 2387777 Deira

Sonamu offers fine Korean cuisine and is the ideal choice for those seeking a place to socialise. Also try Lamesa which offers an authentic Filipino dining experience.

With a cosy warm ambience and chefs serving a wide selection of dishes, this is an excellent choice for delicious Filipino cuisine.

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

2

3

04 8096100 Desert

Al Forsan offers steak night on Wednesdays, seafood night on Thursdays and family brunch on Friday afternoons.

Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq Lounge– Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Le Dune Pizzeria – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic tea bar

BURJ AL ARAB

04 3017600 Jumeirah

Enjoy rich flavours in a striking aquarium setting at Al Mahara, or head to the 27th floor and explore a range of international fare at Al Muntaha.

Al Iwan – Arabic Al Mahara – European Al Muntaha – International Bab Al Yam - Poolside restaurant Juna Lounge – Cocktail bar Junsui – Far Eastern Sahn Eddar – Afternoon tea Skyview Bar – Cocktail bar

CONRAD DUBAI

04 4447444

Sheikh Zayed Road

1 Hong Loong, Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa 2 Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire at InterContinental Dubai Festival City 3 Junsui, Burj Al Arab 4 Indego by Vineet, Grosvenor House Dubai 5 Cavalli Club, Fairmont Dubai

Enjoy a seafood dinner on the terrace at Ballaro on Thursdays. On Saturday afternoons, visit Cave and indulge in a sharing brunch with friends and family.

4

Ballarò – Sicilian Cave – Wine bar Marco Pierre White Grill – British Purobeach Urban Oasis – Lounge Suga – Cocktail Lounge

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, DUBAI GREEN COMMUNITY

04 8852222

Green Community Enjoy gorgeous lake views at Pine Grill while feasting upon the restaurant's top international offerings, Cucina Italian Kitchen hosts a trattoria-style brunch every Friday from AED165.

Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar

Hanabi – Japanese Lamesa – Filipino Sea World – Seafood Sonamu – Korean Yuraku – Japanese

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THE GUIDE/TASTE

FAIRMONT DUBAI

Sheikh Zayed Road

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 3311111

Al Dana restaurant offers a wide selection of tasty international dishes and traditional Arabic delicacies.

Al Dana – International Al Fresco – Italian Al Tannour – Arabic Harvester’s Pub – English Oscar’s Vine Society – Wine bar Sakura – Japanese Trader Vic's – Polynesian Wagamama – Far Eastern Western Steakhouse – Steakhouse Zinc – Nightclub

04 3325555

Rooftop lounge Dokuz serves Turkish cuisine complemented with flavoured shisha, while Cascades presents an array of international delights under a soaring atrium.

Deira

Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Dokus – Turkish Nine – Arabic lounge Pronto – Quick bites Cavalli Club – Italian cuisine with hints of international flavour Cirque Le Soir – Club Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese

Enjoy sumptuous flavours from all over the globe at Spice Island.

FAIRMONT THE PALM, DUBAI

CROWNE PLAZA DUBAI DEIRA

04 2625555

Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International Brioso Eat Italian - Italian

CROWNE PLAZA DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 7012222

Dubai Festival City Belgian Beer Café is the perfect spot for lunch, dinner or Friday brunch. The venue boasts a delicious menu of hearty cuisine, a huge cellar of beverages and live music from a resident band six nights a week.

Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International Skyline Lounge – International

04 4573388

Palm Jumeirah It's Peking Duck day at Baˉ Restaurant and Lounge on January 18. A special set menu will be available from 7:30 to 11pm.

Baˉ Restaurant and Lounge – Chinese Frevo - Brazilian Flow Kitchen – International Mashrabiya Lounge – Lounge The Cigar Room – Lounge Seagrill on 25° Restaurant & Lounge - Seafood The Cigar Room - Lounge Delicacy - Deli

FOUR SEASONS RESORT DUBAI AT JUMEIRAH BEACH

04 2707777 Jumeirah

04 3461111

Sea Fu serves up cutting-edge Mediterranean cuisine and Asian-influenced delicacies in a stylish yet inviting setting.

Boudoir, Loca Restaurant and Bar and Sho-Cho host regular theme nights for all to enjoy.

Hendricks Bar – Bar Mercury Lounge– Rooftop lounge Suq – International Sea Fu – Asian seafood Shai Salon –Arabic

DUBAI MARINE BEACH RESORT & SPA Jumeirah

Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Lebanese Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian El Malecon – Cuban Flooka – Mediterranean Loca Restaurant & Bar – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai Barefoot Lounge – Beach lounge

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES

04 3194000

Dubai Marina Discover Spanish, Moroccan, French and Italian flavours at AZ.U.R or head to The Observatory on the 52nd floor and enjoy picture-perfect 360-degree views across Dubai Marina.

AZ.U.R – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

DUSIT THANI DUBAI

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road Enjoy an authentic taste of Thailand at Benjarong restaurant while PAX offers delicious Italian fare.

Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar PAX – Italian The Californian – International

FUJAIRAH ROTANA RESORT & SPA

09 2449888

Al Aqah Beach This out-of-town option is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents.

Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International

GRAND HYATT DUBAI

04 3171234 Oud Metha

Indian restaurant iZ offers a delicious selection of dishes authentic to the region, presented with contemporary flair. Manhattan Grill is the place to go for premium steaks cooked to perfection.

Andiamo! – Italian Awtar – Lebanese Cooz – Jazz bar iZ – Indian Vinoteca – Wine bar Manhattan Grill – American Panini – Italian deli and café Peppercrab – Singaporean Sushi – Japanese The Market Café – International Wox – Vietnamese

DINE BY CUISINE ARABIC Mawal – Al Bustan Rotana The Courtyard Restaurant – Al Manzil Hotel Mawal – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Khaymat Al Bahar – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Didon – Auris Plaza Hotel, Al Barsha Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Al Tannour – Crowne Plaza Dubai Sakura – Crowne Plaza Dubai Al Khayma – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Al Qasr – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa The Sushi Café – Fairmont Dubai Awtar – Grand Hyatt Dubai Al Sharq – Metropolitan Palace Hotel Al Basha – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Shahrzad – Hyatt Regency Dubai Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Al Khaima – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Al Diwan – Metropolitan Palace Hotel Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Café Arabesque – Park Hyatt Dubai The Lounge – Park Hyatt Dubai Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Na3Na3 – The Address Dubai Mall Al Bayt – The Palace Downtown Dubai Ewaan – The Palace Downtown Dubai Amaseena – The RitzCarlton Dubai Sultan Basha Restaurant & Lounge – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai

ASIAN Benihana – Al Bustan Rotana and Amwaj Rotana Blue Elephant – Al Bustan Rotana Aja Restaurant – Rixos Bab Al Bahr Pai Thai – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Creekside – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Green Spices – Sofitel Dubai Downtown Hong Loong – Sofitel The Palm, Dubai Al Iwan – Burj Al Arab Junsui – Burj Al Arab Sho-Cho – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Thai Bistro – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Benjarong – Dusit Thani Dubai Peppercrab – Grand Hyatt Dubai Sushi – Grand Hyatt Dubai Wox – Grand Hyatt Dubai Toshi – Grand Millennium Dubai

Buddha Bar – Grosvenor House, Dubai Siddharta Lounge – Grosvenor House, Dubai Miyako – Hyatt Regency Dubai Shanghai Chic – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel White Orchid – JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel Beachcombers – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Nomad – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel ET Sushi – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hakkasan – Jumeirah Emirates Towers The Noodle House – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Tokyo@thetowers – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Zheng He’s, Mina A’ Salam – Madinat Jumeirah Rooftop Terrace – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Eau Zone – One&Only Royal Mirage The Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai Minato – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Sumibiya – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek The China Club – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Yum – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Tomo – Raffles Dubai Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Creekside – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Peacock – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Sakura – Taj Palace Hotel Okku – The H Dubai Shiba – The Meydan FAI – The Palace Downtown Dubai Thiptara – The Palace Downtown Dubai Spice Emporium – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Zenses – Restaurant & Lounge – Warwick Hotel Dubai Al Waha - Taj Palace Hotel One on One - The H Hotel Dubai The Palace Café - The Palace Downtown Dubai

INDIAN Masala – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa iZ – Grand Hyatt Dubai Indigo by Vineet – Grosvenor House, Dubai Chor Bazaar – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Amala – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Meliá Dubai Chutney’s – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Ashiana by Vineet – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Handi – Taj Palace Hotel Options by Sanjeev Kapoor – Movenpick Hotel Deira Tresind – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai

MEDITERRANEAN Briosso Eat Italian – Crown Plaza Dubai Deira Villa Beach – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Rosso – Amwaj Rotana

Pizzeria Le Dune – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Majlis Al Bahar – Burj Al Arab Cucina Italian Kitchen – Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Al Fresco – Crowne Plaza Dubai Capanna Nuova – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Flooka – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Az.u.r – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Pax – Dusit Thani Dubai Andiamo! – Grand Hyatt Dubai Luciano’s – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Foccacia – Hyatt Regency Dubai Cubo Pasta – Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Mistral – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Sicilia – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel La Traviata –JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel Carnevale – Jumeirah Beach Hotel La Veranda – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Biscotti – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Mosaico – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Brunello Restaurant – Kempinski Hotel & Residences, Palm Jumeirah The MED – Media One Hotel Prego’s – Media Rotana Dubai Sketch – Metropolitan Palace Hotel La Plaza – Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Frankie’s – Oasis Beach Tower Thyme Restaurant – Oasis Beach Tower 101 – One&Only The Palm, Dubai Certo – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Shades – The Address Dubai Marina Splendido – The RitzCarlton Dubai Bussola – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina World on 44 – Warwick Hotel Dubai Red Grill – Sofitel Dubai Downtown

SEAFOOD Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Seaworld – Asiana Hotel Fish Bazaar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Divaz – JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel Moana – Sofitel The Palm, Dubai Ossigeno – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Pizzeria – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Beach Bar & Grill – One&Only Royal Mirage Fish Market – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Al Mersat Restaurant – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Amwaj – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Zeta – The Address Downtown Dubai Geales – Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa Serafina Bar - Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Drive – Al Bustan Rotana CUT by Wolfgang Puck – The Address Downtown Duba MJ’s, Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah Western Steakhouse – Crowne Plaza Dubai The Exchange Grill – Fairmont Dubai The Grand Grill – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Terra Firma – InterContinental Dubai Festival City Blue Flame – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Gaucho – Dubai International Financial Centre The Rib Room – Jumeirah Emirates Towers and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Rhodes Twenty10 – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Palm Grill – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Chef’s Steak House Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Prime – The Meydan Center Cut – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Hunters – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Porterhouse – Sofitel The Palm, Dubai

MOANA, SOFITEL THE PALM DUBAI

CROWNE PLAZA DUBAI

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GRAND MILLENNIUM DUBAI

HYATT REGENCY DUBAI

Al Barsha

Deira

04 4299999

On Wednesdays, enjoy an alternative night out at Toshi's Chinese hot pot evening from AED179 per diner.

Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Toshi – Asian

GROSVENOR HOUSE, DUBAI

04 3998888

Dubai Marina Toro Toro is famed for its South American cuisine while Indego by Vineet serves excellent Indian fare with a twist.

8

Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes in Residence– Afternoon tea Rhodes W1 – British Siddharta Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Bar – Bar The Deli – Café The Gallery – Bar The Lobby – Lounge Toro Toro – South American

HABTOOR GRAND BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3995000

Dubai Marina Al Dhiyafa Grand Kitchen opens this month with an urban-inspired concept and deli-style menu.

7

6 L'Olivo, Rixos The Palm Dubai 7 Hakkasan Dubai, Jumeirah Emirates Towers 8 Fogueira Restaurant and Lounge, Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence 9 Jamie’s Italian, Jumeirah Beach Hotel

04 2091234

Enjoy the Champagne Brunch at Al Dawaar, Dubai’s only revolving restaurant. The buffet includes a sushi station, prime rib and whole baked fish carving stations, as well as a selection of fresh seafood.

Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Frosty's Coffee Shop – Café The Lobby Lounge – Lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub

IBIS WORLD TRADE CENTRE DUBAI

04 3324444 Zabeel

Cubo Pasta is a popular spot for delegates at the neighbouring Dubai World Trade Centre.

Cubo Pasta – Italian

INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 7011111

Dubai Festival City Treat yourself to a Parisian afternoon tea experience at Choix Patisserie and Restaurant and enjoy savoury snacks, pastries and cakes. If it's dinner you're after, head to Reflet par Pierre Gagnaire for a new a la carte menu boasting seasonal ingredients.

Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa Grand Kitchen – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Fish Bazaar – Thai seafood restaurant Luciano’s – Italian Polo Bar – Cocktail bar Lounge & Bar – Chinese Salamar – Garden lounge The Grand Grill – Steakhouse The White Lounge – Lounge The Underground Pub – English

Anise – International Belgian Beer Café – Restaurant and bar Choix – French patisserie Eclipse – Champagne bar La Terrasse par Pierre Gagnaire - Lounge Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steakhouse

HATTA FORT HOTEL

Embark on a culinary journey at Ibn Majed. Buffets feature specialities from Germany, Thailand and India.

04 8099333 Hatta

Enjoy gourmet dining and music at Jeema Restaurant.

Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

HILTON DUBAI CREEK

04 2271111 Deira

table9 by darren velvick offers elegant cuisine in an intimate setting. Or try Issimo Bar & Lounge for relaxing ambience and light bites.

Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by darren velvick – European

HILTON DUBAI JUMEIRAH RESORT

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Savour sublime Italian food at BiCE Ristorante. Elsewhere, Pure Sky Lounge hosts a lively evening Friday brunch for AED295 alongside stunning Arabian Gulf views.

Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar BiCE Restaurant - Italian Cuban Bar – Cuban H20 Poolbar & restaurant – Poolbar Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin American Pure Sky Lounge - Lounge Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

JA JEBEL ALI BEACH HOTEL

04 8145555 Jebel Ali

Divaz – Seafood restaurant Mushref Bar – Cocktail bar Ibn Majed – International La Traviata – Italian Shooter's – Steak-Mex concept Captain's – Beach bar and restaurant Oasis Lodge – Refreshments Sunset Lounge – Snacks Sports Cafe – Sports bar White Orchid – Far Eastern

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

04 3480000 Jumeirah

Set on the beach, overlooking the Arabian Gulf, La Veranda is one of Dubai's most intimate restaurants. It is a great spot for an evening of romance and delicious Italian cuisine.

360° – Terrace bar Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Villa Beach - Mediterranean Palm Court - Lobby lounge Ocean Blue Lounge & Pool Bar - Al fresco dining Dhow & Anchor – English Jamie's Italian – Italian La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Mahiki – Nightclub Uptown – Bar

JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE HOTEL

04 2308555

Dubai Creek Friday brunch at Nomad includes international cuisine and drinks.

Plumeria – Healthy café Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Latin Nomad – International Crimson Gallery - Afternoon tea

JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3300000 DIFC

Round up the girls for ladies' night and enjoy two complimentary glasses of pink beverages each as you overlook stunning views at Alta Badia Bar. Alfie's – English Al Nafoorah – Arabic Alta Badia Bar – Italian ET Sushi – Japanese Hakkasan – Chinese/Cantonese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy Dubai – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese

JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY

04 4530000

Palm Jumeirah Rib Room will host 'John Stone Butchers Night' on January 29. Savour a fourcourse set menu with paired beverages for AED750.

Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Musical Hall – International dinner and dance Club Lounge – International Plaj – Beachside international dining Rib Room – Steakhouse Le Café - Lounge Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda Bar – Vodka bar

JUMEIRA ROTANA HOTEL

04 3455888 Satwa

Try some authentic German flavours at Brauhaus.

Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

KEMPINSKI HOTEL & RESIDENCES, PALM JUMEIRAH

04 4442000

Dubai Marina Brunello Restaurant offers Italian cooking at its best.

Beachside Barbecue – Brasserie Brunello Restaurant – Italian K-West Bar – Wine bar

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 3993333

Dubai Marina Watatsumi boasts a menu of bold new recipes.

Barasti – International Latest Recipe – International Latitude Bar – Bar Watatsumi – Japanese

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YACHT CHARTERS & FISHING Turn Wonderful Moments into Priceless Memories Charter with Family and Friends AED 500/- Per Hour Onwards

LUXURY PRIVATE CHARTER DEEP SEA FISHING SUNSET CRUISE Pick up & Drop-off facility from Hotels in Dubai

YA C H TS Untitled-12 1

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

www.alwaslyachts.ae

24 Hrs. Reservation

Tel: 04 2953485 / 04 2953486 11/19/14 12:48 PM

T A ST E / T H E G U I D E

LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3995555

Dubai Marina Mexican restaurant Maya is famed for its cuisine.

Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Maya – Mexican Brasserie – International Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Shades – Sports bar Geales – Seafood

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MELIÁ DUBAI

04 3868111 Port Rashid

Azalya – International Quantum – Sports bar Alfonso X – Sushi and cigar bar Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian Estrellas - Pool bar and lounge

METROPOLITAN PALACE HOTEL

Dubai Media City

Deira

04 4271000

The MED is a stylish yet relaxed Mediterranean eatery with stunning views.

The DEK on 8 – Terrace bar Café M - Coffee, snacks The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

MEDIA ROTANA DUBAI

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Prego's presents a delicious selection of gourmet Italian fare.

Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Skyview Bar This eclectic bar may be famed for its pictureperfect views and silver-screen sips but the menu boasts far more than cocktails named after movies. The venue hosts daily afternoon tea experiences that are served to your table in seven courses, starting with a mixed berry tart and finishing with lychee and rose sorbet.

Location: Burj Al Arab Contact: 04 3017600

Palm Grill & Bar serves premium cuts of beef seared to perfection, The China Club captures the distinctive flavours of Beijing, Canton and Szechwan cuisine, and Minato offers authentic Japanese dishes.

Talk Restaurant – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar Chinwaggery + Soul Bar, Lounge & Restaurant – New York-style brasserie

Boulvar – International Fish Market – Seafood Ku-Bu – Cocktail Bar Minato – Japanese Palm Grill & Bar – Steakhouse Shabestan – Iranian Sumibiya – Asian The China Club – Chinese The Pub – English Up On The 10th – Jazz Bar Yum – Noodle bar

Jumeirah Lakes Towers

Al Shindagah – International Al Diwan – Lebanese Sketch – Mediterranean Al Sharq - Iraqi restaurant

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MILLENNIUM PLAZA DUBAI

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road

Enjoy brunch with a difference every Friday at Urban bar & kitchen.

Urban bar & kitchen – Modern bar nosh – International Crema lobby lounge – Lobby lounge

Lemon Pepper – International La Terrasse Bar & Terrace – Bar Cinnamon – Lounge Shoko Café – Coffee, quick bites Moriana – Arabic club

OASIS BEACH TOWER

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence For a taste of Italy, don't miss a mouthwatering meal at Frankie's and there's also internationally renowned restaurant Wagamama.

Shimmers offers stunning beach-side dining.

Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining Zheng He's – Chinese Tortuga – Mexican

Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai – Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house Citrus Express – Snacks

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BUR DUBAI

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

04 4440111 Deira

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this five-star property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes.

04 4401010

The Palm Jumeirah

MÖVENPICK HOTEL IBN BATTUTA GATE

STAY by Yannick Alléno is one of the city's finest gourmet French restaurants.

04 4440000 Jebel Ali

101 Dining Lounge and Bar – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

If you can't choose one restaurant, sample 20 miniature courses from across five eateries during the hotel's Dine Around the World Tasting evening.

PARK HYATT DUBAI

04 6021234 Garhoud

Mistral – Arabic Sicilia – Italian Shanghai Chic – Chinese Moroc Bar – Moroccan lounge Chor Bazaar – Indian

Traiteur has introduced a new dining concept where guests can choose from a 'classique' and a 'modern' six-course set menu.

Cafe Arabesque - Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

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Head chef Alessandro Esposito takes the reins at Certo's kitchen creating various traditional Italian meat and seafood delicacies.

Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar Library Lounge – Light meals

Sheikh Zayed Road

ONE&ONLY THE PALM, DUBAI

Jigsaw – International Options by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian Jigsaw – International

Dubai Media City

Al Sufouh

Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eauzone – Far Eastern Kasbar – Nightclub Nina – International Olives – International The Jetty – Beach Bar The Roof Top Lounge – Bar The Rotisserie – International Tagine – Moroccan The Samovar Lounge – Tea lounge

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DEIRA

04 3669111

RADISSON ROYAL HOTEL DUBAI

Celebrities serves up international cuisine in a stunning setting overlooking lush landscaped gardens.

10. Radisson Royal Hotel, Dubai 11. Skyview Bar, Burj Al Arab 12. Imperium, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI MEDIA CITY

ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE

04 3999999

With six dining establishments, guests are spoilt for choice.

Downtown Dubai

Entre Nous is the destination for fine gourmet fare from around the world.

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

MINA A' SALAM, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 4502000

04 3320000

Trade Centre

Al Mashrabia – Local and Mandi Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar Atrium Café – Coffee, snacks

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DOWNTOWN

Located in the thriving Business Bay district, this new property has excellent views of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.

NOVOTEL WORLD TRADE CENTRE

Speciality restaurant Al Mashrabia offers local and Mandi cuisines.

Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Lebanese Pulse The Club – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International

Deira

04 2227171

Each night of the week Talk Restaurant hosts themed evenings such as Australian cuisine on Sundays, European food on Mondays and Saturdays, and South American food on Wednesdays.

04 4380000

A quaint, old-school hotel located in Deira.

Umm Suqeim

TEA TIME

Jumeirah Beach Residence

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMIERAH LAKES TOWERS

04 2270000

04 3668888

At.mosphere Lounge As well as unbeatable views over the city’s skyline and the Arabian Gulf, At.mosphere offers a choice of five-star culinary experiences including three afternoon tea packages: Traditional, Premium and Luxurious.

The lounge takes tea time to a new level in a stunning setting on level 122 of Burj Khalifa.

Location: Burj Khalifa Contact: 04 8883828

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK

04 4498888

Spanish hotel Meliá Dubai has a number of dining options; the newest being celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor's Indian restaurant.

MEDIA ONE HOTEL

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH

04 3080000

Celsius hosts daily theme nights from AED179, including Italian Sundays, Lebanese Mondays, seafood on Tuesdays, Spanish Wednesdays, Indian Fridays and international fare on Saturdays.

Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Tresind – Indian fine dining Sultan Basha Restaurant & Lounge – Lebanese

RAFFLES DUBAI

04 3248888 Oud Metha

Every Friday Azur serves up a carvery-style traditional British roast dinner, complete with starters, a variety of meats and the usual accompaniments.

Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Tomo – Japanese

RAMADA PLAZA JUMEIRAH BEACH

04 4398888

Jumeirah Beach Residence Home to the city's first Brazilian restaurant and well worth a visit.

Shores – International Fogueira – Brazilian Speakeasy Bar and Restaurant – American

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S S O R C S R O E T D E DAR YOUR BOR

Race Starts: 14:00 Friday, 9 January Entry: FREE to Grandstand & Paddock Location: Dubai Autodrome

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11/19/14 12:47 PM

T A ST E / T H E G U I D E

RIXOS BAB AL BAHR

07 2444400

Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah Fish Bone serves fresh seafood in a fine-dining setting.

A TASTE OF CHINA

Fish Bone – Seafood L'Olivo – Italian Aja Restaurant – Asian Lalezar – Middle Eastern Meat Point – South American Seven Heights – International Toast 'n Burger – Casual

SOFITEL DUBAI DOWNTOWN

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

Downtown Dubai

Emirates Hills

04 5036666

New penthouse venue The 31 Bar offers panoramic views of Dubai and an enticing cocktail menu.

Green Spices – Thai Les Cuisines – International Red Grill – French The 31 – Bar

RIXOS THE PALM DUBAI

SOFITEL DUBAI JUMEIRAH BEACH

Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Marina

04 4575555

04 4484848

L’Olivo Ristorante showcases the best of Italian cooking.

Take a break from sunbathing with salads and light bites complemented by iced teas, smoothies and fresh cocktails at The Infini Pool Lounge.

A la Turca – International L'Olivo Restaurant – Italian Nargile - Shisha lounge Biber- Lounge Salt - Seafood

ROSE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

AOC French Brasserie – French The Infini Pool Lounge – Pool bar Plantation - All-day dining The Hub – Sports bar

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

SOFITEL THE PALM, DUBAI

04 3230111

04 4556677

Palm Jumeirah

Sample creative dishes from around the world at Petals.

Indulge in a Saturday roast with friends and family at Porterhouse Steaks & Grill, head to Hong Loong to sample the new dim sum brunch or enjoy fresh seafood at Moana.

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road

Manava – International Moana – Seafood Porterhouse Steaks & Grills – Steak house Bottega Italian Deli – Italian Hong Loong – Asian Maui – Beach restaurant

Hoi An offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with French influences, served in a vibrant atmosphere.

Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Shang Palace – Chinese The Act – Theater dining venue

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL & TOWERS

04 2281111 Deira

Enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace and elegant Italian fare at Vivaldi by Alfredo.

Ashiana by Vineet – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese and Asian Hatta – International buffet Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo – Italian

SHERATON DUBAI, MALL OF THE EMIRATES HOTEL

04 3772000

Every Friday, the hotel hosts a chocolate brunch at its Chocolate Room where guests enjoy sweet and savoury snacks.

Sanctuary Pool Lounge – Lounge Sanabel – Mediterranean Vantage – Lounge Soda Box – American

SHERATON GRAND HOTEL, DUBAI

04 5034444

Feast prides itself on offering artisanal and seasonal dishes that are creatively presented.

Link@Sheraton Café – Café Feast – International

SHERATON JUMEIRAH BEACH RESORT

04 3995533

Dubai Marina Visit Peacock for delicious Chinese cuisine.

Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International Peacock – Chinese Bliss Lounge and Bar – Lounge, bar Link at Sheraton Café – Café

Location: Fairmont The Palm Contact: 04 4573338 Shang Palace This stunning restaurant champions traditional Cantonese cuisine and provincial specialties in a chic, modern setting.

Dine on delicious, beautifully presented dishes that have been crafted with meticulous attention. Menu highlights include Perking duck and succulent wok-fried beef tenderloin with black pepper sauce.

Location: ShangriLa Hotel Dubai Contact: 04 4052703 The China Club A Dubai dining favourite, this elegant restaurant offers delicious dishes in a luxurious setting.

Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Contact: 04 2057333

Enjoy tapas at Monty's every evening. Choose from an offering including crispy calamari with lemon mayonnaise.

Monty's – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International

THE H DUBAI

04 5018888

Sheikh Zayed Road Award-winning restaurant Okku serves contemporary Japanese cuisine in a stylish setting.

Okku – Japanese One on One – Lebanese, pizza, Arabian Mizaan – International Gold lounge – Lounge Mizaan - International Amika – European Arcadia – International Quantum Pool Lounge – International

THE MEYDAN

04 3813333 Meydan

Enjoy truly succulent steaks with sensational racecourse views at stunning restaurant, Prime.

TAJ PALACE HOTEL

Equus Bar – Poolside dining Cube Sports Bar – Bar Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house The Track Restaurant – International Shiba – Asian

Deira

THE OBEROI, DUBAI

04 2232222

BaAnother exciting Chinese dining venue. Enjoy flavours from the eight regions of China as you dine gazing on spectacular vistas over the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Marina.

04 888344

Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali.

Handi – Indian Al Waha - Arabic Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese

THE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN DUBAI

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai Fazaris offers the finest in Italian and Japanese cuisine.

Calabar – Latin lounge CUT by Wolfgang Puck – Steakhouse Fazaris – Italian and Japanese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood

THE ADDRESS DUBAI MALL

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Tuck into a Churrasco meat feast every Thursday night Cabana, starting from AED250.

Boutiq – Lounge Cabana – Lounge Karat – Afternoon tea La Porte des Indes – Indian French Na3Na3 – Arabic

THE ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA

04 4367777

Dubai Marina From Sunday to Wednesday enjoy paella evenings at Shades for AED350 for two people.

Select the paella of your choice and bar staff will match it with a jug of vintage infusion.

Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

04 4441444

Sheikh Zayed Road For an authentic taste of India, why not try a delicious meal at Ananta, or explore the cuisine further at the new weekly Sunday evening Food Bazaar.

Ananta – Indian Nine7One – International The Lobby Lounge – Lounge The Lobby Bar - Bar Umai – Asian

THE PALACE DOWNTOWN DUBAI

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai Every Wednesday and Saturday for AED180 enjoy afternoon tea at The Palace and relish a buffet and premium tea infusions.

Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai the Palace Café – Arabic and international

THE RITZ-CARLTON DUBAI

04 3994000

Dubai Marina Lobby Lounge is a wonderful spot to enjoy sumptuous teas and freshly baked cakes and pastries.

Amaseena – Arabic La Baie Lounge – Lounge Caravan – International Blue Jade - Asian Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE

04 3722222 DIFC

Center Cut boasts a menu of the finest steaks and grilled meats paired with premium beverages.

Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar Café Belge – Belgian café Sunken Garden – Cocktails Cake – Patisserie Lobby Lounge and Terrace – Lounge

WALDORF ASTORIA DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH

04 8182222

Palm Jumeirah Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah hosts three Friday brunches including the classic Waldorf Astoria Brunch at Mezzerie, a contemporary Italian brunch at Social by Heinz Beck and an authentic Southeast Asian brunch at Lao.

THE WESTIN DUBAI MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

Social by Heinz Beck – European Lao – Southeast Asian Mezzerie – Brasserie Peacock Alley – Tea, coffee, light meals Serafina Bar – Italian, cocktails Palm Avenue – European

Dubai Marina

WARWICK HOTEL DUBAI

04 3993333

Enjoy delicious dishes from Blue Orange, Hunters and Spice Emporium at the Bubbalicious Friday brunch.

Priced at AED650 per person with free-flowing bubbly.

Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian El Sur - Spanish Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai

TOWERS ROTANA DUBAI

04 3438000

04 5069999

Sheikh Zayed Road New restaurant World on 44 offers 360-degree panoramic views and a blend of Peruvian and Mediterranean flavours.

Bayty – All-day dining Deli Grind – Middle Eastern World on 44 – Southeast Asian Zenses Restaurant & Lounge – Pan-Asian

CITY DINING

Sheikh Zayed Road International restaurant Flavours on Two hosts a different theme night every evening of the week, while Long's Bar puts on a weekly Friday brunch from noon to 4pm.

Flavours on Two – International Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International

AT.MOSPHERE

TRADERS HOTEL DUBAI

Burj Khalifa

04 2659888 Deira

The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style.

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

04 8883828

The world's 'Highest Restaurant from Ground Level'.

BLUE MARLIN

056 1133400 Ghantoot

VILLA ROTANA

Chic beach club boasting the sounds of Ibiza.

Sheikh Zayed Road

CAVALLI CLUB

04 3216111

Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet with a host of dishes to choose from at this sumptuous feast served in a chic and contemporary setting.

Moka Café – All-day dining

WINE AND DINE IN DUBAI Although the UAE is a Muslim country, alcohol is permitted in several emirates including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Wine, Champagne and spirits are available in most five-star hotels, but be warned, as there is zero tolerance to drink-driving and being drunk in public is a crime, both punishable with a fine and, in more serious cases, imprisonment.

04 332960

Fairmont Dubai A chic nightspot that attracts a trendy late-night crowd.

RIVINGTON GRILL

04 4230903, 04 3666464 Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day.

THE ACT

04 4409300

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Enjoy delicious Peruvian cuisine and amazing live enterainment.

TOKO DUBAI

04 4428383

Vida Hotel Downtown Expect Japanese cuisine served in modern ‘izakaya’ dining style.

USHNA

04 3686506

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor and excellent cuisine.

VIP ROOM

04 3881400

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Dubai's hottest new clubbing venue.

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ONE&ONLY THE PALM Taking pride of place at the edge of Palm Jumeirah’s crescent, One&Only The Palm is an exceptional beach resort, blending Moorish and Andalusian architecture amid lush greenery. Here exclusivity and opulence are the order of the day. A pristine stretch of private beach, a Michelin-starred celebrity chefled restaurant, individual spa suites and an overwater bar complete the hotel's stunning offerings.

DUBAI MARINA MALL, THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE, JUMEIRAH BEACH Nestled among sky-high towers, Dubai Marina Mall offers a fantastic shopping experience.

Browse designer brands before relaxing at the restaurants and al fresco eateries that line the water’s edge. Minutes away are Jumeirah Beach and The Walk at JBR where the leafy boulevard boasts cafés and new mall The Beach. Skydive Dubai is based at Jumeirah Beach for a chance to soar over the sights.

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MADINAT JUMEIRAH, BURJ AL ARAB, JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL This picturesque cluster of Jumeirah properties boasts an eclectic range of luxury hotels, fine dining and entertainment.

Shop at Souk Madinat, relax in Talise Spa or make waves at Wild Wadi Waterpark. For the ultimate in luxury experiences visit Burj Al Arab with stunning ocean views, ornate interiors and opulent dining. Or enjoy the pristine beaches of Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

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MALL OF THE 13 EMIRATES

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MALL OF THE EMIRATES, SKI DUBAI Hundreds of designer stores, boutiques and entertainment options abound in this sprawling mall. Enjoy a 14 screen cinema complex or dine in one of two food courts. For something different, try Ski Dubai. The Middle East’s first indoor skiing complex offers a range of alpine fun from skiing to snowboarding.

DUBAI VISITOR MAP 6

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Al Bustan Rotana Dubai Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Al Manzil Hotel Al Murooj Rotana Dubai Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach Residence Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa Asiana Hotel Auris Plaza Hotel Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Burj Al Arab Centro Barsha by Rotana Conrad Dubai Courtyard by Marriott, Green Community Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

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THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE

Ask the concierge desk for a copy of the Concierge Dubai fold-out map with tips on what to see and do in the city

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DUBAI MEDIA CITY AND KNOWLEDGE VILLAGE

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Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Dusit Thani Dubai Fairmont Dubai Fairmont The Palm Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach Grand Hyatt Dubai Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort Hyatt Regency Dubai Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai InterContinental Dubai Festival City Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeriah Creekside Hotel Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence

ROAD TO BAB AL SHAMS RESORT &SPA 10 ● ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB ● DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN 6 CLUB 5

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DUBAI SPORTS CITY

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Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeira Rotana Dubai Kempinski Residences and Hotel Apartments Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Madinat Jumeirah (Al Qasr, Mina A’Salam, Dar Al Masyaf) Media One Hotel Media Rotana, Barsha Dubai Meliã Dubai Metropolitan Palace Hotel Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Deira Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers Nassima Tower Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai

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One & Only Royal Mirage One & Only The Palm Park Hyatt Dubai Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Downtown Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Raffles Dubai Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence Rixos Bab Al Bahr Hotel Rixos The Palm Dubai Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel and Towers Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort Sofitel Dubai Downtown

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Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa Taj Palace Hotel Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Dubai Marina The Address Montgomerie The H Dubai The Meydan Hotel The Palace Downtown The Ritz-Carlton Dubai The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Centre The Oberoi, Dubai Traders Hotel Dubai Towers Rotana Dubai The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Vida Downtown Dubai Villa Rotana Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah Warwick Hotel Dubai

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DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE (DIFC) The city’s finance and business hub connects the region to the rest of the world. Pay a visit to this area for a sophisticated evening out with a chic selection of restaurants, bars and lounges. Jumeirah Emirates Towers boasts a range of gourmet offerings such as fine-dining brasserie The Ivy.

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WOLLONGONG BEACH

5 21 28

JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD

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BUR DUBAI 41

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JUMEIRAH 5

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SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD As Dubai's main artery, this is one of the busiest roads along with Al Khail and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.

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WORLD TRADE CENTRE

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ZAABEEL

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MEYDAN

ROAD TO:

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ROAD TO: RIXOS BAB

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DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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GARHOUD

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20 8 ROAD TO:

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

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ROAD TO: DRAGONMART

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TO: 2 ROAD ARABIAN CENTER

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

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2 RESORT &SPA

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KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

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AL MAHA DESERT

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DUBAI HEALTHCARE CITY

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THE DUBAI MALL, BURJ KHALIFA AND THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN The world’s largest mall offers more than 1,200 shops alongside an abundance of dining and entertainment options. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is teeming with ocean life while The Dubai Fountain can be accessed from the mall where a stunning water show takes place every half hour each evening at the foot of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.

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AL KARAMA

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THE DUBAI MALL

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DEIRA

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JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

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DIFC

DOWNTOWN DUBAI

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SATWA

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DUBAI MUSEUM

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AL WASL ROAD

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JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK

DUBAI CREEK

THE WORLD (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)

DUBAI CREEK, SOUKS AND DUBAI MUSEUM The heart of the city, the Creek is a stunning spot to catch a glimpse of authentic Dubai. See dhows (traditional boats) ply their trade along the waters while early morning visitors will see fishermen at work on the river banks. Also in this part of the city is Dubai Museum, which makes for a fascinating day out with interactive displays and exhibits charting the emirate’s history from its pearl diving days. Stop by the gold, spice and perfume souks for some traditional treasures before leaving this vibrant area.

HERITAGE VILLAGE

SHEIK SAEED AL MAKTOUM HOUSE

JUMEIRAH BEACH CORNICHE

SAFA PARK

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2 mile 2 km

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Al Ghurair City E1 Arabian Center E3 Beach Centre D1 BurJuman E1 Choithram B2/C2/D1/E1 Supermarket locations Citywalk Mall D1 City Centre Deira E2 City Centre Mirdif E3 Dragonmart D3 Dubai Festival City E2 Dubai Marina Mall A1 Dubai Outlet Mall D3 Gold and Diamond Park B2 Ibn Battuta Mall A2 Jumeirah Centre D1 Boulevard at Jumeirah D2 Emirates Towers Jumeirah Plaza D1 Lamcy Plaza E2 Mall of the Emirates B2 Mazaya Centre D2

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Mercato Oasis Centre Palm Strip Spinneys Supermarket locations The Beach The Dubai Mall Times Square Centre Town Centre The Village Wafi

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Aviation Club Al Nasr Leisureland and Stadium Al Wasl Stadium Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Dubai Sports City Helidubai Jebel Ali Sailing Club (JASC)

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Meydan Racecourse Ski Dubai Skydive Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai Autodrome Dubai Dolphinarium

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DUBAI METRO 1 2 3 4

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 1 2

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Jebel Ali Danube Ibn Battuta Nakheel Harbour & Tower Jumeirah Lakes Towers Dubai Marina Nakheel Dubai Internet City Sharaf DG Mall of the Emirates First Gulf Bank Noor Islamic Bank Business Bay Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Financial Centre

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Emirates Towers World Trade Centre Al Jafiliya 19 Al Karama 20 BurJuman 21 Union 22 Al Rigga 23 Deira City Centre 24 GGICO 25 Airport Terminal 1 26 Airport Terminal 3 27 Emirates 28 Rashidiya 16

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Creek Al Jadaf Dubai Health Care City Oud Metha BurJuman Saeedia Al Ghubaiba Al Ras

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Palm Deira Baniyas Square Union Square Salah Al Din Abu Baker Al Siddique Abu Hail Al Qayadah Stadium Al Nahda Dubai Airport Free Zone Al Qusias 1 Etisalat

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* Please call the RTA on 800 90 90 or visit wojhati.rta.ae for more information.

DUBAI METRO GREEN LINE 1

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Icon for shopping area or mall.

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{

My Dubai Salma Khan, fashion designer and founder of Salma Khan Fashion House, shares her city highlights

}

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1 Wild Wadi Waterpark 2 Zuma

I was born and raised here in Dubai. My parents came from Pakistan many years ago and, although they have since returned, I have stayed to pursue my career as a fashion designer. Dubai is a city of dreams and a land of opportunities. Over the years I have seen it grow into a world-class destination attracting many visitors from across the globe.

Winter is when the city comes alive. From October to March the weather is beautiful and there’s plenty to do. The city is abuzz with great outdoor activities such as desert safaris, barbecues, concerts and festivals. To engage with local culture I visit Miraj Islamic Art Centre on Jumeirah Beach Road, Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi and Souq Al Murshid, which is great for textile shopping. I also have a lot of Bedouin friends whom I visit. They remind me of the traditional way of life.

The weekend is my time to unwind and I look forward to spending it with friends and family.

I relish Dubai’s culinary experiences, so I make a point to try new restaurants frequently.

I love seafood, so my gourmet adventures always involve looking for the best seafood dishes in the city. Caramel in DIFC serves the most amazing glazed fish and I go to Japanese restaurant Zuma for its tasty cod. I also

often visit La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie at Vida Downtown Dubai. It has a great ambience and serves an excellent watermelon salad with feta cheese.

Living in Jumeirah allows me easy access to various shopping locations. There are several options in this locale with beautiful boutiques while Mall of the Emirates is great for a wide variety of stores.

When I have guests in town I usually take them to Wild Wadi Waterpark at Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Ferrari World on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. I also encourage them to try out local experiences by visiting Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood as well as Al Hadheerah at Bab al Shams Desert Resort & Spa to sample Arabic food.

Living in this city all my life has allowed me to build so many memories. Witnessing Dubai grow from its humble beginnings to a five-star city in such a short time has offered accessibility to different cultures and influences. The place allows you to tap into various demographics and offers a good understanding different ways of life. Dubai is also a place that is very inspirational and a regional hub which is definitely a plus point for career growth.

“When I have guests in town I usually take them to Wild Wadi Waterpark at Jumeirah Beach Hotel”

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