Concierge Dubai February 2015

FEBRUARY 2015 | issue 126

FEBRUARY 2015 | issue 126

T H E

l u x u r y

dubai edition

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

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 Licensed by international Media Production Zone

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FEBRUARY 2015 / ISSUE 126 / 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 OL I V I A CU T HBE RT C AT HE R IN E L A NGL E Y

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

CIRC U L AT ION & M A R K ET ING C A ROL MIL A N CHR IST IN E H A M A DA

CONCIERGE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY AND COPIES A R E DIST R I BU T E D F R E E OF C H A RGE I N F I V E -STA R A N D SE L EC T FOU R-STA R HOT E LS. A LT HOUGH E V E RY E F FORT IS M A DE TO E NSU R E T H E ACC U R AC Y OF I N FOR M AT ION CON TA I N E D I N CONCI E RGE M AGA ZI N E , T H E PU BL ISH E R C A N N O T B E H E L D R E S P O N S I B L E F O R A N Y E R RO R S O R INACCUR ACIES. ARTICLES CONTAINED WITHIN CONCIERGE M AGA Z I N E A R E U N DE R COP Y R IGH T TO T H E PU BL ISH E R A ND CA NNOT BE R EPRODUCED OR TR A NSMIT TED IN A N Y FORM, WITHOUT FIRST OBTAINING WRITTEN PERMISSION.

Welcome to Concierge February brings with it not only pleasant temperatures but the opportunity to explore the full spectrum of experiences Dubai has to offer. During this time, the city’s busy events calendar is filled with exciting dates to enjoy, from international sporting contests to gourmet food festivals. The eclectic offering is testament to not only the incredible variety Dubai has become known for, but also the rich experiences that await the city’s many visitors.

Acclaimed accessories designer Charlotte Olympia Dellal is fast carving out a place on Dubai’s thriving fashion scene. Concierge meets the designer to discover the style inspiration behind her quirky creations and the success of her first Middle East boutique in Mall of the Emirates. Learn more on page 26.

As Valentine’s Day beckons, thoughts turn to finding the perfect gift. For ladies, a stunning piece of jewellery is the ideal adornment. From Graff to Fabergé and more, browse stunning collections on page 32.

One of the emirate’s longest running sporting competitions, the 22nd edition of Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships returns this month with an exciting line-up of on-court action expected from international stars including Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams and Jelena Jankovic. Turn to page 62 to find out what this year’s tournament has in store for tennis enthusiasts.

The city is currently gearing up for three fabulously food-filled weeks as the second Dubai Food Festival gets underway on February 6. Featuring a host of restaurant pop-ups, celebrity chefs and sophisticated street-food stands, it promises plenty of gourmet food on-the-go. Turn to page 74 for the latest on the festival.

Enjoy all that Dubai has to offer with Concierge.

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Dubai is set apart as a destination by the eclectic array of activities on offer. At first glance, it seems to be a city of contrasts, yet look a little further, and a wonderful synergy between past and present appears. The emirate’s rich heritage is an important part of any experience of Dubai, whether on a helicopter tour over the historic quarter around Dubai Creek or soaring high above the ancient desert in a colourful hot air balloon

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Contents FEBRUARY 2015 / ISSUE 126

14/Essentials

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

22/Spice of life Let your senses be your guide at Dubai’s atmospheric spice souk

25

Shop 26/Step in style

Quirky accessories designer Charlotte Olympia Dellal talks to Concierge about her first Middle East boutique and this season’s styles

32/Cherished moments

Make it a Valentine’s Day to remember with a selection of glittering jewels

Crafted from high-tech materials and state-of-the-art mechanical movements, choose from these tenacious timepieces

42/An artisan’s view

Step inside the jewellery maker’s workshop in this month’s photo essay

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JEWELLERY CRAFTSMANSHIP IN THE UAE

38/Built to last

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Contents FEBRUARY 2015 / ISSUE 126

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Discover 52/Jewels of the sea

Discover the legacy behind the emirate’s impressive pearling industry

58/A closer look Experience the city’s vibrant art scene at Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz

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Experience 62/Serving up success

BALLOON ADVENTURES

Take a look behind the scenes at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

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68/Adventure playground From underwater exploration to skiing in the heart of the desert, Dubai boasts a wealth of experiences to try

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Fendi Rindi Fabio Gavazzi Marco Vanoli Langiotti Vinicio Pajaro Mala MatÏ Antonio Didonè Guy Laroche Symetrie

the best of fur brands

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Contents FEBRUARY 2015 / ISSUE 126

72

Taste

74/Grass roots gourmet Following the success of its debut last year, Dubai Food Festival returns with a city-wide culinary showcase

78/Pipe dreams For an authentic taste of Arabia, sample shisha at one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning lounges

IMPERIUM, JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY

81 The guide

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104/My Dubai Designer Khalid Shafar shares his city highlights

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Brought to you in association with

Essentials

FEBRUARY

D I S C OV E R Art history

Dubai's historic quarter, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city. Here wind tower architecture defines the landscape and a host of art galleries are part of a burgeoning cultural community. Among them, XVA Gallery (pictured) has crafted an international reputation for showcasing a vibrant selection of pieces from around the region and beyond. One of the upcoming exhibitions to look forward to is a debut from Iranian artist Samira Abbassy, from Feb 7 to April 1. Visit: xvagallery.com

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E X PER I E NCE

EVENTS IN BRIEF

Abu Dhabi Classics Season

October 14 saw Abu Dhabi Classics return from a three year hiatus with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Running until May 28, this season presents some of the best classical musicians from the east and west with concerts taking place across the capital. This month’s highlights include Staatskapelle Dresden and Christian Thielemann at Emirates Palace Auditorium on February 17. Visit: abudhabievents.ae

D U B A I S H O P P I N G F E S T I VA L February 1 As the 20th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival draws to a close be sure to make the most of the retail extravaganza’s final days of discounts and special offers across more than 70 of the city’s malls.

Visit: mydsf.ae

R E D F E S T D X B 2 015 February 12 to 13 A weekend of pop music entertainment comes to Dubai Media City Amphitheatre as The Script, Iggy Azalea, Bastille and Kid Ink, among others, feature in this year’s festival.

Visit: virginradiodubai.com

NIGHT OF PRESTIGE

TA S T E

February 26 Enjoy an evening of glitz and glamour at Dubai’s inaugural Night of Prestige hosted at Madinat Jumeirah. In addition to several renowned artistic exhibitions and the Middle East debut of De Beer’s famed Talisman Jubilee Crown, the evening includes a four-course gala dinner and performances by the Kiev City Ballet.

Visit: nightofprestige.com

Brunch

Experience decadent French fare at Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach’s A.O.C French Brasserie where delicacies include foie gras, fresh seafood and fine French cheese. Adults can take in the picturesque seaside views from the terrace while younger members of the family are kept entertained at the Kids’ Zone. When: Fridays, 12.30pm to 4pm. Price: From AED230 per person, free for children under 12. Contact: 04 4484733

R A C I N G AT M E Y D A N

SHOP Montblanc

Montblanc’s elegant new Bohème collection of women’s timepieces feature a self-winding calibre, date or perpetual calendar. Available in case diameters of 30 or 36 millimetres, floral Arabic numerals are presented on a guilloché 60 or 90-facet or diamond-paved dial. The watch’s classic design can be further enhanced by opting for diamonds on the bezel and by selecting a leather or stainless steel wristband. The Montblanc Bohème Collection is available at the flagship Montblanc boutique in The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 4340300

Until March Dubai World Cup Carnival is currently underway featuring an exciting line-up of races and events at Meydan Racecourse.

Tailored hospitality packages are offered at the venue’s gourmet restaurants, first-class lounges and private suites.

Visit: dubairacingclub.com

GLOBAL VILLAGE Until April 11 Enjoy a fun-filled day out at Global Village, the region’s largest cultural spectacle. This bustling outdoor festival features a wide selection of shopping stalls, restaurants, family-friendly entertainment and a theme park.

Visit: globalvillage.ae

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E X PER I E NCE

ASK THE CONCIERGE

Dubai Polo Gold Cup

AV N I S H M A S I H , H E A D C O N C I E R G E AT S H E R AT O N GRAND HOTEL, SHARES HIS CITY HIGHLIGHTS

Seeing Dubai from a sky-high perspective is a magical experience and I would recommend a tailormade helicopter tour that allows a unique and breathtaking snapshot of Dubai. Alternately, opt for a thrilling water takeoff and aerial excursion via a seaplane. Depending on how daring and adventurous the guests are, these flights can be customised to create once -in-a-lifetime memories. Of course, for the ultimate adrenaline rush, try a skydiving experience. Soaring above the clouds and then freefalling 120miles per hour is an adventure that one will always treasure.

Skydive Dubai offers guests an exhilarating jump with vistas of of Palm Jumeirah's beautiful beaches.

Dubai is known for its extensive retail choices and The Dubai Mall provides the very best in shopping.

Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, described as ‘The Centre of Now,’ it is the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination.

Discover an unparalleled number of retail outlets, combined with worldclass dining, entertainment and leisure attractions. It truly is a haven for sophisticated shoppers.

You can explore Dubai’s cultural side with a trip to the Dubai Museum, Heritage & Diving Village and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Dubai Creek is also synonymous with romanticism and old-world charm. Cruising down the waterways is a wonderful way to take in the beautiful views of the old city. On board, guests can enjoy local Arabic cuisine and entertainment from belly dancers and traditional musicians.

There are many great photo opportunities throughout Dubai and, as Burj Al Arab is one of the most instantly recognisable buildings it is a favourite, with visitors. No trip to Dubai would be complete without a visit to the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa.

At the foot of this impressive tower, guests can also witness the stunning music and water show provided by The Dubai Fountain.

Expect an action-packed line-up and an exceptional roster of players as the Dubai Polo Gold Cup gets underway. Regarded as the region’s most prominent international polo tournament, it sees the world’s best teams converge on the expansive grounds of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club to fight it out for the coveted title. Enjoy gourmet food in VIP stands or share a family picnic on the club’s lush lawns.

When: February 25 to March 15. Where: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. Visit: dubaipologoldcup.com

TA S T E Romantic meal

February brings with it Valentine's day and the opportunity to enjoy a special evening on Dubai's world-famous dining scene. Among the gourmet options to choose from is Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire at InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Renowned French chef Pierre Gagnaire has earned three Michelin stars for his restaurants around the world and has brought that cooking flair to Dubai. For a meal to remember this Valentine's, an exclusive set menu of gastronomic delights awaits guests, accompanied by selected beverage pairing and a complimentary glass of pink bubbly. When: February 14, 7 to 11pm.

Price: AED 2,580 per couple. Contact: 04 7011127

SHOP

Premium Furs and Fashion A sumptuous fur is the ultimate symbol of luxury and sophistication. Located within Jumeirah Beach Residence, Premium Furs and Fashion’s sleek Dubai boutique offers a gorgeous selection of decadent designs to suit all tastes. Boasting superior craftsmanship, each fur is handmade in Italy where partners include Fendi, Rindi and Marc Vanoli. Contact: 04 4541338

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E X PER I E NCE

Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival The ever-popular Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival is back with another sensational line-up of musical talent. Kick starting the threeday event on February 25 is British singer James Blunt and Christina Perri. The next day brings the eagerly anticipated performance of multiple Grammy Award winner Sting (pictured), followed by Esperanza Spalding and John Legend to close the show on the final day. When: February 25 to 27. Where: Dubai Media City. Visit: dubaijazzfest.com

SHOP

Citywalk mall Revel in the city’s cooler climes and take to Citywalk’s al fresco shopping promenade. Located in Jumeirah, this pedestrian-friendly destination offers a mix of quirky independent boutiques and local designer labels. From chic café’s to luxury grooming, more than 52 outlets complement the venue’s tree-lined walkways. A dedicated children’s play area also makes this a place for the whole family. When: Weekdays 10am to 10pm and weekends 10am to midnight, Contact: 04 5114670

TA S T E

Sunset cocktails Sea Fu, located in Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, is causing plenty of buzz on the culinary scene. Championing an eclectic mix of Mediterranean and Asian-inspired dishes, the restaurant’s name is derived from the word ‘seafood’ and the ‘sifu’, meaning master in Cantonese. Spot on for sundowners, enjoy signature cocktails prepared by the resident mixologist on the pool-side terrace. Where: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach.

When: The terrace is open daily from 12.30pm to 11pm. Contact: 04 2707777

E X PER I E NCE Omega Dubai Desert Classic

This year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic will see the world’s best golfing talent and a throng of sporting supporters return for their fill of fairways action.

Taking place on the lush grounds of Emirates Golf Club, all eyes will be on last year’s winner Stephen Gallacher and Omega brand ambassador Rory McIlroy as they join a strong team of competitors battling it out for the trophy and the $2.5 million prize money.

When: Until February 1. Visit: dubaidesertclassic.com

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TA S T E

LOOKING AHEAD D U B A I I N T E R N AT I O N A L B O AT S H O W March 4 to 8 A premier showcase of some of the world’s most elite superyachts, this glamorous event attracts maritime enthusiasts from across the globe. A decadent parade of luxury living, visitors to Dubai International Marine Club can expect to see an incredible fleet of yachts, powerboats, catamarans and even supercars on display.

Visit: boatshowdubai.com

Arabic coffee

A time-honoured pastime of desert-dwelling Bedouin, Arabic coffee was traditionally boiled in copper pots on the campfire’s bed of coals. Today, this charming aspect of local culture continues as friends and family take time out of their busy lives to gather round to enjoy its distinctive taste. Often served with dates, visitors will find authentic Arabic blends served in many cafés, malls and hotels.

SHOP

Children's fashion

MICHAEL BUBLÉ March 12 to 13 Canadian crooner Michael Bublé is set to serenade crowds at Dubai International Stadium next month. Performing in the region for the first time, the swing singer’s visit follows several sold-out international concerts.

Visit: louderentertainment.com

ART DUBAI March 18 to 21 Renowned international and regional artists and galleries gather for this important exhibition of art and photography. In addition to the impressive variety of pieces on display, the festival’s lively programme also features several exciting talks and workshops. Tickets are priced at AED50 per person.

Contact: artdubai.ae

Brimming with fashionable finds and adorable designs, Kid’s Puzzle will have budding fashionistas stepping into the new season in sensational style. Located in The Dubai Mall, the trendy children's boutique features a host of high-end international labels, including Moschino, Miss Grant, Gaultier Junior, Missoni, GF Ferré, Juicy Couture, Alviero Martini, Roccobarocco and much more. When: Sun to Wed 10am to midnight and Thur to Sat 10am to 1am. Contact: 04 4340151

D I S C OV E R Dubai Museum

The city’s unique history as a trading port is best explored at Dubai Museum, housed in Al Fahidi Fort.

Built in 1787, the fort itself once guarded the town from enemies approaching by land and is now the oldest existing building in the emirates. With local relics, artefacts, life-size dioramas and a section dedicated to pearl diving, it provides fascinating insights into the traditional way of life before the advent of oil. When: Sat to Thu, 8.30am to 7.30pm, Fri 2pm to 7.30pm. Price: AED3 Contact: 04 3531862

DUBAI WORLD CUP March 28 Meydan Racecourse is home to the world’s richest race day. The much-anticipated finale of Dubai World Cup Carnival sees thoroughbreds storm down the track in a thrilling competition for the day’s overall prize purse of US$10 million.

Visit: dubairacingclub.com

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E X PER I E NCE The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride

Cruise Burj Lake and marvel at the world’s tallest building in this attraction that blends the past and future to fascinating effect. The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride sees a fleet of abras (traditional boats) ply the waters of the 30-acre lake, providing visitors with stunning vistas of the surrounding sights. From The Dubai Mall to The Dubai Fountain, there are plenty of remarkable photographic opportunities to be had. Rides take place in the evenings at 30-minute intervals between The Dubai Fountain shows. When: Saturday to Thursday, 5.45 to 11.30pm. Where: Downtown Dubai. Price: AED65 per person. Visit: burjkhalifa.ae

TA S T E Afternoon tea

A pleasant way to while away the afternoon, the tradition of afternoon tea is taken to another level in Dubai where five-star hotels add the luxurious touch. At Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah the offering exceeds expectations and, at Peacock Alley, a selection of fine teas, beverages and small plates is offered. The choice includes London Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches and fresh scones, and a Parisian Afternoon Tea of sandwiches, pastries and éclairs. When: Daily, 2.30 to 6pm. Price: From AED150. Visit: waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

D I S C OV E R Art exhibition

Bringing together artists from across Africa and the Arab world, The Mojo Gallery’s third instalment of the Crossings series features the work of Misheck Masamvu, Tayseer Barakat and Ismail Al Rifai. A truly emotive showcase, the exhibition draws on each artist’s individual experiences in their home countries of Palestine, Zimbabwe and Syria. When: Until February 28. Where: The Mojo Gallery, Al Quoz. Visit: themojogallery.com

SHOP

Fashion District Fashion District at Mall of the Emirates is a designer shopping space spread over 5,000 square metres. It's home to over 30 contemporary stores including a number of new-toDubai international brands. The district also plays host to several exclusive standalone boutiques such as Halston Heritage (pictured), which is not only the iconic American label’s only UAE store but its second boutique outside of America. Other firsts include Alice + Olivia, C Wonde and McQ; an edgy urban brand that’s derived from the House of Alexander McQueen. Where: Mall of the Emirates. Contact: 04 4099000

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Spice of life

Enticing aromas form a perfumed passageway into Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spice souk as a heady mixture of scents signal the market long before it comes into view. A delight for the senses, the enchanting space comprises a wonderful visual patchwork as spices and herbs spill out of sacks, baskets and drawers at every turn. Flavourings from all corners of the globe are represented here from familiar seasonings of cinnamon and cardamom to the more exotic. Visitors will also find handmade incense, tobacco, rice, teas and a wide selection of dried fruit among the myriad offerings available at this al fresco traditional market. Striking hues created by the spices are reason alone to pay a visit.

Located opposite the gold souk in Deira, this makes for a unique activity.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

S NA P S HOT

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Shop Best of Br itish

Supermodel extraordinaire Naomi Campbell and current catwalk sensation Jourdan Dunn star in Burberryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gorgeous Spring/Summer 2015 campaign. Celebrating an eclectic mix of mood-boosting hues and knock-out designs, the collection ushers in an invigorating spring feeling. Shop for Burberry at The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 3398357

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Step in style Charlotte Olympia Dellal is bringing back old school Hollywood glamour to where it belongs – our wardrobes WORDS BY

VINEETHA MENON

There’s something almost ethereal about Charlotte Olympia Dellal and it certainly carries through to her whimsical accessories collection. Since presenting her first footwear line to rapturous applause at London Fashion Week back in 2008, the British designer has won over even the most conservative style critics with her brightly coloured and distinctive designs.

Dellal’s London based shoe brand takes its lead from vintage Hollywood style, adding a distinctly playful edge.

After all, her shoes are best recognised by the signature gold spider’s web on the sole – Charlotte’s Web – a creative homage to the designer’s favourite children’s classic by E. B. White.

Concierge talks to the illustrious designer to find out more about her inspirations.

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CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA DELLAL

CHA RL OT T E OL YMPI A / S HOP

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SHO P/CHA RLO TTE O L Y M P IA

Dellal has always had a love for design and fashion. She studied at Cordwainers, a London based college respected for specialising in footwear and accessories, before launching her eponymous label in 2008 soon after graduating. She went on to win the Accessory Designer award at the 2011 British Fashion Awards and hasn’t looked back since.

While Charlotte Olympia is available at some of the world’s most prestigious retailers including Harrods, the designer has more recently focused her efforts on expanding her own line of boutiques to fully immerse visitors in her world.

“One of my proudest and most unforgettable moments to date was the opening of my first standalone retail store, in London’s Mayfair in 2010. Then opening stores in Manhattan, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Miami and Hong Kong and most recently Dubai. I enjoy creating the perfect environments to showcase my collections,” Dellal tells Concierge.

The Middle East’s first Charlotte Olympia store can be found at Mall of the Emirates in Dubai – a city where she describes the women as always being “very glamorous”.

“The essence of my brand stems from my love of old Hollywood glamour. The 40s and 50s are bygone eras that I am nostalgic for and play a huge part in the sensibility of the Charlotte Olympia brand,” she explains.

1 SS15 Spirit sandals 2 Actress Bérénice Bejo carrying a Charlotte Olympia clutch 3 Worth Its Weight clutch 4 SS15 Lucky clutch

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“The essence of my brand stems from my love of old Hollywood glamour. The 40s and 50s are bygone eras that I am nostalgic for and play a huge part in the sensibility of the Charlotte Olympia brand”

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“My grandmother Zehava, a very elegant and glamourous woman, was a role model.

She looked like she could have been a movie star and came from the era I love. My mother also has great style and always had the most amazing wardrobe that could rival any Vogue closet.

“Both of them really enjoyed getting dressed up and that is definitely something I have taken from them,” Dellal adds.

Today, some of Hollywood’s most stylish women are stepping out in Charlotte Olympia, from leading actresses such as Eva Longoria, Sarah Jessica Parker and Bérénice Bejo to musicians Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez and Katy Perry. “I love

designing for women who dress from the feet up. It’s great seeing different women wearing my shoes, whether it’s on the street or on the red carpet,” reveals Dellal.

A ll Charlotte Oly mpia desig ns are handcrafted in Italy and the brand’s signature leopard prints, fan detailing and extravagant use of colour have made her collections modern classics in their own right.

“I enjoy designing feminine accessories with a sense of humour that are elegant and timeless. Italian craftsmanship skills are important for my designs,” she adds.

One of the most interesting new developments from the label is Charlotte Olympia’s Tailor Made service that allows visitors to

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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/CHA RLO TTE O L Y M P IA

create their own bespoke pair of shoes.

While it’s only available in the brand’s US and London stores at the moment, the service has strong potential in the Middle East, a region where clientele are keen on luxury personalisation.

Styles such as the Kitty with a feline face embroidered on to flats and Dolly with the famous ‘island’ platform that measures over an inch have all become must-have wardrobe essentials. From towering heels to a wide range of flats, boots and covetable clutches, each seasonal collection brings with it a dedicated theme.

The winter collection, entitled ‘Shanghai Express’, is inspired by the great dynasties of China and includes transformed porcelain vases into heels and colourful lanterns the inspiration for handbags.

The Parasol platforms and Anna Mae Wong embroidered t-bar shoes are personal favourites; I accessorised them with my

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5 SS15 Dancing in Heels 6 SS15 Cherokee heels 7 Movieland Magazine Clutch Bag 8 SS15 Pandora transparent box clutch

“My fashion philosophy is less is more, apart from accessories... then I often hear myself saying that more is more”

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perspex fan-shaped clutch bag and silk satin red Chinese Lantern bag,” she explains.

Charlotte Olympia also recently launched a few new lines including a leather bag collection called ‘Handbags For The Leading Lady’ and the small leather ‘Feline’ goods line that’s no doubt a taste of more exciting times to come.

Ever y C ha rlot te Oly mpia col lec tion echoes the designer’s own sense of

uniqueness and the Spring/Summer 2015 range is no exception. The latest in a line of standout accessories exudes a quirky Wild West theme that features lashings of studs, kitsch fringe detailing and dreamy Pocahontas blues.

Dellal adds: “My fashion philosophy is less is more, apart from accessories, whether it’s shoes, bags, hats... then I often hear myself saying that more is more.”

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Cherished moments This Valentine’s Day celebrate love with a host of glittering gems and timeless designs

Bestowing the gift of jewellery on a loved one has long been considered the ultimate act of ever-lasting affection and with Valentine’s Day this month, for many the pressure is on to find the perfect present. While each year brings with it new seasonal crazes and trendy gift ideas, there’s no denying the joy a well-chosen piece of jewellery can bring. Fortunately Dubai, a burgeoning hub for luxury labels and high-end jewellers, provides a treasure trove of bejeweled trinkets that are sure to set the right tone during this month of romance. From luxury bespoke settings to chic, contemporary creations, Concierge presents a selection of sentimental keepsakes to make this a Valentine’s Day to remember.

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GRAFF DIAMONDS STAR FLOWER SETTING

JE W E L L E RY / S HOP

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SHO P/ JEWELLERY

Pandora Pandora is beloved across the globe for its adorable selection of covetable charms and hand-finished jewellery. Each season the jeweller recounts a new tale through a collection of jewellery and to coincide with Valentine’s Day, Pandora presents the Love series. Inspired by fabled romances, the range taps into several contemporary trends over four enchanting themes.

Penning the word ‘love’ in twinkling cubic zirconia stones, sentiments are clearly conveyed with every Words of Love necklace and bracelet. Delicate Hearts, features interlocking heart motifs across a range of 14-carat gold and sterling silver earrings and rings, while fans of modern-day flirtation will adore the XOXO artwork found in the Ring in Romance range which once again thrusts cubic zirconia stones into the spotlight.

Finally, both avid and novice charm collectors will be drawn to the Love Is All Around two-tone amulet adorned with openwork heart symbols. Added to any of Pandora’s sleek silver bracelets, this latest charm would make a worthy addition to an accessories aficionado’s collection.

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The treasured possessions of tsars and empresses, ever since the age of the Imperial Russian court, Fabergé’s gloriously bedecked eggs have been viewed as one of the jewellery world’s most iconic tokens of love

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Fabergé The treasured possessions of tsars and empresses, ever since the age of the Imperial Russian court, Fabergé’s gloriously bedecked eggs have been viewed as one of the jewellery world’s most iconic tokens of love. An inherent part of Fabergé’s legacy, the tradition of social gifting is still very much entwined into the brand’s current identity. Bound to bring a twinkle to the eye, Fabergé’s dainty Cadeau pendant oozes refined glamour. Part of the Heritage Collection, this gorgeous necklace features an 18-carat, 22-millimetre rose gold egg pendant ribboned with round white diamonds that finish in a glittering bow. For those who prefer to let the simplicity of three little words do the talking, Fabergé’s engraved ‘I love you’ yellow gold pendant makes an excellent choice. This subtle beauty is gracefully

complemented by several sparkling white diamonds. In stunning contrast, Fabergé’s Emotion range is unabashedly bold in both its vibrant colour combinations and striking use of precious stones. Exploring the house’s artistic attraction to Bohemian, Impressionist and Fauvist finishes, each piece in the Emotion collection is bursting with passion and breathtaking beauty.

A ravishing pick for Valentine’s Day, the Emotion Purple Ring infuses a kaleidoscopic selection of more than 300 purple sapphires, amethysts, aquamarines, violet topaz and spinels to create an unforgettable piece. Ideal for fashion-forward recipients, this exquisite medley of gems can also be found in the collection’s statement-making Emotion Pink ring.

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1 & 2 Pandora Delicate Hearts Bracelet 3 Pandora Delicate Hearts Earrings 4 & 5 Pandora Words of Love Necklace and ring 6 Pandora Delicate Hearts Earrings 7 Fabergé Simple I Love You pendant 8 Fabergé Cadeau rose gold pendant

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A new level of competition Join us for the Dubai World Cup Carnival from January to March and watch world-class thoroughbreds and jockeys compete from around the globe.

The Dubai World Cup Carnival promises a night of thrilling horseracing action and exceptional dining and hospitality leading up to the 20th Dubai World Cup on March 28, 2015.

Gates open 5:00pm and the first race starts at 6:45pm.

To join us please book at meydan.ae or call the Ticket Sales Office on +971 (4) 327 2110

dubairacingclub

@DRC_Meydan

Meydanracing

drc_meydan #20thDWC

Proud to Partner:

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SHO P/ JEWELLERY

Graff Diamonds Founded in 1960, Graff Diamonds holds an unrivaled reputation for handling notably rare diamonds and servicing the world’s most discerning clientele. Maintaining that diamonds are the ultimate gesture of love, the Captivating Hearts collection radiates with richness and extravagant sentiment. Fashioned from cuts of heart-shaped diamonds and gemstones, these exceptionally crafted pieces are bound to leave a lasting impression. Fall in love with the collection’s stunning Ruby and Heart necklace, with matching bracelet and earrings. “The illustration of love in the form of a heart is a powerful and magical representation that communicates across every culture and generation. It is a beautiful symbol that as designers we revisit time and time again,” explains design director, Anne-Eva Geffroy.

Of course, for some, it would be unimaginable to approach the year’s most romantic day without the thought of a proposal springing to mind. Named after some of the house’s most prolific stones, Graff introduces a host of new engagement ring settings, including Star Flower and Constellation. Each setting is given a bespoke twist, with every ring crafted by hand to cradle each diamond’s unique silhouette.

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“The illustration of love in the form of a heart is a powerful and magical representation that communicates across every culture and generation”

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W H E R E T O B U Y:

Chopard

Chopard: Mall of the Emirates, 04 3414545 Fabergé: Available at Damas Les Exclusives, Burj Al Arab, 04 3484816 Graff Diamonds: The Dubai Mall, 04 3307717 Pandora: The Dubai Mall, 04 3697037

From the red carpet through to exclusive high-society soirées, Chopard continues to be favoured by the world’s most stylish leading ladies. Today, British model and socialite Poppy Delevingne leads the charge on the Genevan jeweller’s new Happy Diamonds campaign. Sure to resonate with the eternal romantic, the collection, which comprises a pretty pendant necklace, ring and matching earring studs, proudly positions a classic heartshaped motif at centre stage. Championing claw-set diamonds and graceful white gold designs, the Happy Diamonds range exudes a youthful charm that makes it the perfect fit for today’s fashion-forward woman. Commenting on the collection’s versatility, Delevingne says: “It’s easy to play with the Happy Diamonds collection because the pieces are delicate but also joyful and fun.” For a more opulent form of expression, Chopard’s lavish Haute Joaillerie range takes its inspiration from artful arabesque swirls. Peppered with diamonds and pear-cut amethyst cabochons, the elegant 18-carat rose gold necklace and matching earrings dazzle with a decadent dose of after-dark sophistication. It’s perfect for those looking to add some sparkle this Valentine’s Day.

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9 Graff Diamonds Heart Diamond Pendant 10 Graff Diamonds Heart-shaped Sapphire Ring 11 Graff Diamonds Constellation setting 12 Graff Diamonds Ruby Heart and Diamond Fringe Necklace 13 Graff Diamonds Heart-shaped Ruby and Diamonds Earrings 14 Poppy Delevingne in Chopard’s Happy Diamonds collection 15, 16 & 17 Chopard Happy Diamonds pendant, ring and earrings

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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

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Built to last Designed to test the limits, contemporary timepieces strive to meet the needs of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clientele with the promise of precision and durability

As luxury watchmakers seek to up the ante on style and design, horology enthusiasts are no longer tasked with having to choose between technical prowess and aesthetic appeal. They can truly have it all. Fashioned from superior materials and boasting state-of-the-art mechanical movements, many modern-day designs elegantly walk the line between ruggedness and refinement as they reach new heights in artistry and innovation. From withstanding extreme temperatures and volatile deep-sea water pressure to defying gravity with out-of-this-world craftsmanship, Concierge presents a selection of tenacious timepieces that have been created to survive tough conditions with ease and elegance.

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ZENITH EL PRIMERO STRATOS SPINDRIFT RACING

W A T CHE S / S HOP

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Blancpain Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback An extraordinary house signature, Blancpain’s famed Fifty Fathoms timepiece has come to define the evolution of diving watches. Brought about through a collaboration between Blancpain’s former CEO, Jean-Jacques Fiechter and French military captain, Robert Maloubier, the Fifty Fathoms made its debut in 1953, followed closely by the legendary Bathyscaphe three years later. Ever since, this prestigious nautical connection has played a pivotal part in not only Blancpain’s design philosophy, but also in the Swiss watchmaker’s philanthropic pursuits. In recognition of this kindred alliance, Blancpain released the limited edition Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback. Showcasing a sleek, grey ceramic case and uni-directional blue ceramic rotating bezel with liquid metal indexes, this striking timepiece comes fully equipped with Blancpain’s latest in-house movement, the F385. The movement employs a vertical clutch for engaging the chronograph, which unlike common horizontal clutch systems, guarantees flawless operation by the chronograph. Avid divers will also

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appreciate the addition of sealed chronograph pushers that allow hassle-free dives of up to 300 metres, compared with many diving chronographs that require pushers to be ‘locked down’ when submerged in water. Limited to a mere 250 models, the Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback is the first piece in a series of limited-edition diving watches to be released by the Swiss manufacturer.

After being scorched at a blistering 20,000 degrees Celsius, the case material’s white ceramic façade sports a slick grey finish 1 The first Blancpain Fifty Fathoms in 1953 2 Blancpain Ocean Commitment Bathyscaphe Chronograph Flyback 3 Omega Speedmaster Grey Side of the Moon

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Omega Speedmaster Grey Side of the Moon “The moon is essentially grey” were the fateful words uttered by Apollo 8 astronaut Jim Lovell and the inspiration behind Omega’s latest lunar-inspired timepiece, the Omega Speedmaster Grey Side of the Moon. Ever since Buzz Aldrin wore an Omega Speedmaster while taking those first historic steps on the moon, the Speedmaster portfolio has ranked high in the world of sports watches.

In solid ceramic, the latest addition, once again, looks to challenge modern conventions. Sporting a rugged masculinity, this exceptional timepiece is sure to resonate with adventurous types. After being scorched in a heating chamber for three hours at a blistering 20,000 degrees Celsius, the case material’s original white ceramic façade sports a slick grey finish, while the distinguished sand-blasted 950 platinum dial adds to its elegant edge. Nestled at the heart of its impressive 44.25-millimetre case is Omega’s Co-Axial Calibre 9300. In addition to being the first of Omega’s proprietary movements to include a chronograph, the Co-Axial Calibre 9300 also features a silicon balance spring to reduce winding time.

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W A T CHE S / S HOP

Officine Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 Left-Hand 3 days Automatic Titanio – 47mm Founded in Florence in 1860, storied Italian watchmaker Officine Panerai enjoys an illustrious history with the Royal Italian Navy that dates back to 1916. Originally tasked with developing luminous materials and instrumental dials that could be employed in the dark, this prestigious partnership brought to fruition much of the innovation and skill the manufacturer holds dear today. Taking its lead from these vintage predecessors, the new Luminor Submersible 1950 LeftHand 3 days Automatic Titanio borrows from the brand’s maritime expertise as it once again positions the winding crown on

the left side of the case at nine o’clock. This unconventional style was first debuted by Officine Panerai in the 1940s and became the preferred placement of Navy commandos who were also required to wear other instruments on their wrists, namely a compass and depth gauge. Combining Italian design with Swiss technology, this latest model features a brushed titanium 47-millimetre case that houses Officine Panerai’s P.9000 manufacture calibre and an automatic mechanical movement with a power reserve of three days. Cutting a decidedly masculine figure, the black dial features a bold Clous de Paris motif and sleek Super-LumiNova dot and bar hour markers that offer greater visibility even in poor lighting.

4 Officine Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 Left-Hand 3 days Automatic Titanio – 47mm 5 Zenith El Primero Stratos Spindrift Racing 6 Spindrift yacht racing team 7 Zenith El Primero movement

W H E R E T O B U Y: Blancpain: The Dubai Mall, 04 3398304 Omega: Mall of the Emirates, 04 3414452 Zenith: The Dubai Mall, 04 3398104 Officine Panerai: The Dubai Mall, 04 3398444

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Zenith El Primero Stratos Spindrift Racing

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When Zenith unveiled the first ever automatic chronograph, the legendary El Primero calibre in 1969, the watch industry marvelled at the movement’s ability to reach 36,000 vibrations per hour. Among many other technical achievements, this impressive feat ensured the El Primero took the title of the world’s most accurate watch. Today, the newest addition to the El Primero family pays homage to the transatlantic Spindrift yacht racing team. Sure to appeal to adventure-seekers, the Zenith El Primero Stratos Spindrift Racing is technical and gutsy in an unapologetically bold manner

that encapsulates its partnership with the world’s largest racing trimaran. Made for extreme racing, much of this competitive spirit is embodied in the essence of the watch’s design and in its mechanics. While the ‘Spindrift racing’ inscription displayed at 12 o’clock is hard to miss, one of the most immediate features to catch the eye is the opening onto the escapement at 10 o’clock that grants a peek at the timepiece’s inner workings. Allowing increased durability, the use of silicon on the El Primero escapewheel decreases the effects of wear and tear, the DLC titanium case offers a tough, scratch-resistant coating while the sporty rubber strap affords increased flexibility.

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An artisan's view Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh presents an intimate portrait of jewellery craftsmanship in the UAE

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PHOT O E S S A Y / s hop

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Skilled designers at Liali Jewellery's Dubai-based workshop begin the jewellery-making process with a hand-drawn sketch. Here, traditional methods reign supreme over modern machinery. Talented craftsmen then create a concept around the design to plan how to accomplish it by hand

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Highly-experienced artisans at the Liali workshop use a multitude of tools to handcraft intricate jewellery through a regimen of established manufacturing techniques that have proved successful for decades. Once the body of the piece has been soldered into shape, filed, cleaned and polished, the final stage is embellishment. After the setting has been cast and foiled, stones and gems are cut and set into place with extreme precision resulting in a beautiful outcome that's then quality control checked before being delivered to Liali boutiques

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Damas treats jewellery making like an advanced art and uses a contemporary and highly advanced production method which involves the latest 3D technology.

Although the process is lengthy and involves several stages, machinery enables craftsmen to maintain a high level of accuracy and create several pieces at once

Beginning the process, a machine is programmed with the blueprint of a design, which is then transformed into a wax prototype through the use of a laser that solidifies liquid wax. At a later stage the molten metal is finally ready to be poured into the final cast.

Once hardened the cast is removed and the gold or silver piece is cleaned and polished by the workshopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craftsmen

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Artisans carefully file the diamonds to achieve the correct carat weight required for each jewellery piece. Once this process is completed, the precious gems are shaped to perfectly fit into the final cast

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For the final phase the responsibility is returned to the hands of the artisans. Skilled craftsmen arrange the setting by hand and adorn the jewellery with diamonds or gems. Visitors to Dubai looking to create their own bespoke piece of jewellery can do so at the Gold & Diamond Park. A host of luxurious retailers can be found here, including Liali and Damas. Gleaming halls are laden with wares for visitors to browse before leaving with a precious purchase

With thanks to Damas and Liali Jewellery. For more information on Damas, please visit damasjewellery.com or contact 04 4270336. For Liali Jewellery contact 04 3688500 or visit lialijewellery.com

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Discover A stitch in time

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Persian carpet making is an ancient craft which draws on centuries of inspiration. Artisans hand-weave designs in an array of vivid colours and patterns. Wonderful examples of carpets can be seen in Dubai, adorning mosques and historic buildings. This piece is among a beautiful selection available to buy at National Iranian Carpets, Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Contact: 04 4200264.

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Jewels of the sea

Of all the world’s precious gems the pearl is undoubtedly the most enchanting. Born of rivers and oceans, the rare treasures boast a stunning mirrored lustre and f lawless form. Nestled within the shells of oysters and mussels these ocean blooms are prized for their delicate beauty. Natural or wild Long before the discovery of oil, pearls are extremely rare and as such the country’s wealth lay hidden the most valuable. Their scarcity has away on the ocean floor for only resulted in the production of farmed pearls to satisfy the huge demand for the most courageous to retrieve these gems. To find just a single pearl, hundreds of oysters or mussels have to be gathered and opened. Pearls can be cultivated in either fresh or salt water. Saltwater pearls largely come from ocean oysters and are usually found in protected lagoons in the waters of Bahrain and Australia. Freshwater pearls come from a variety of species of river mussels in both warm and cold climates such as Scotland and China.

The value of a natural pearl is determined by its size, shape, colour, surface quality and luminosity. Single, natural pearls are often sold as collector’s items or set in high jewellery pieces. Very few matched strands of natural pearls exist with the rare finds selling for huge sums. In 1917 renowned jeweller Pierre Cartier purchased a Fifth Avenue mansion that is now home to the New York Cartier store. He paid for the property with a matched, double strand of natural pearls valued at USD$1 million. The world’s most expensive natural pearl is the Pearl of Lao Tzu or Pearl of Allah. At 31,893.5 carats, it has an estimated value of USD$60 million. It was found in 1934 off the coast of the Philippines.

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OYSTER SHELL WITH PEARL INSIDE

PE A RL D I V I N G/ DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER / PEA RL DIVING

For hundreds of years the finest pearls in the world have been harvested from the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Its shallow and sheltered contours offer optimum conditions for oysters and there are still over 200 pearl diving sites off the UAE coast.

Long before the advent of oil the pearling industry furnished the people of the UAE with an income. Many Bedouin families left the barren desert to settle on the coast and fish. As demand for pearls grew, many more families flocked to coastal villages, particularly Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The Diving Village in Dubai charts the emirate’s pearl diving past by keeping the memories of a unique moment in the UAE’s history alive. “Pearl diving here dates back thousands of years, this is a very important part of the UAE’s heritage. Make no mistake this was the hardest job in the world. Men would spend three months at sea away from their families working in extremely dangerous conditions. We should all take the time to remember the important job that our fathers and grandfathers did, we should think back to that and appreciate all that we have now,” says Nasser Juma Bin Sulaiman, director of the Diving Village. Nasser’s father was a pearl diver who started his trade at just 15 years old. It was commonplace for divers to learn as children going out on diving trips with their fathers. “The children would help out opening the oysters once they were caught, bringing water for the divers or helping with the ropes. There was plenty for them to do and this is how they learned to become divers,” says Nasser.

1 The Diving Village, Dubai 2 Diving for pearls 3 Natural pearls

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“Pearl diving here dates back thousands of years, this is a very important part of the UAE’s heritage.

Make no mistake this was the hardest job in the world. We should all take the time to remember” 3

Everyday life revolved around the pearl trade with merchants putting up the capital to equip boats for diving season. In return they enjoyed the lion’s share of any profits made. The remainder of the money was distributed between the captain and crew.

Boats were up to 60feet long with crews of around 45 men from captain to divers and their assistants. Peak pearl diving season began in July when crews sailed out for three months at a time. Working from sunrise to sunset life on a pearl diving boat was tough.

“The day started at 6am, the crew would dive for oysters up to 30 times in a day before bringing them back to the boat and opening each one in the hope of finding a pearl.

Once the sun went down, the men would

pray, eat and sleep on the deck under the stars. “Physically the crew was very lean and muscled as a result of their work but they also had many scars and deformities on their hands and feet from cuts where infection set in,” reveals Nasser.

There were great riches to be made from pearling if a crew discovered a top quality pearl. However, the risks both physically and financially were great. Divers were required to be quick-thinking and courageous. To access offshore oyster beds divers submerged to depths of up to 40 metres. This was done without any kind of mask as the men simply held their breath for as long as they could to reach the ocean floor. A protective body suit was worn to guard against jellyfish while a

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Untitled-10 1 ad_Juy-Sept 2014 v3.indd 1 Concierge Arabic

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DIS C O VER / PEA RL DIVING

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nose clip, a fetam, made from goat or gazelle horns stopped water flowing up the nose.

A stone weighing around 10 to 14 pounds was attached to rope and looped around each diver’s toe to speed up their descent.

Once on the ocean floor, the men placed oysters in a stringed textile bag known as al dayyin which hung from the neck. The only communication with the surface was a rope, known as al yida, which was 70 metres long. The lifeline was simply held by the diver at one end and an assistant on the boat at the other. When a diver was ready to return to the surface, he pulled on the rope to be hauled up. Once back on deck a sharp knife known as a meflaga was used

to open the oysters. “The entire operation was very dangerous, many men lost their lives. They were diving to great depths without any support and were often left with hearing problems from the pressure.

Scratching around on the ocean floor for razor sharp oysters and wrenching them from rocks also resulted in injury while opening thousands of shells was another difficult task. The divers were very brave,” says Nasser. There was also a financial risk for pearl divers. They often took advances from the boat’s owner to provide for their families while at sea. If the catch fell short this meant divers could finish a perilous trip in debt despite all of their efforts.

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R O B E R T WA N P E A R L B A R Dubbed ‘Emperor of Pearls’, for over four decades Robert Wan has been internationally revered for his innovative jewellery designs crafted from exquisite Tahitian Pearls. Last November, Wan launched his first ever Pearl Bar in Bloomingdale’s Dubai.

Boasting an assortment of more than 150 luminous pearls and 50 vibrantly coloured threads, this unique concept allows customers to create their own personalised jewellery pieces. Elevate the experience by selecting gems from Robert Wan’s most exclusive pearls lines. Handpicked from the brand’s limited-edition collection, these delicate beauties are complemented by a gold setting adorned with diamonds, rubies and sapphires. Where: Bloomingdale’s Dubai Contact: 04 3505333

4 The Diving Village, Dubai 5 Opening shells to find pearls 6 Chains of pearls

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The divers’ dedication saw the UAE pearl trade become very lucrative with the precious gems exported to India, Iran and Turkey. Pearls were also sold on to European and Chinese markets during the Gulf’s industry boom from the mid18th century. The country’s industry sadly died out in the early 1930’s as the world sank into economic depression and the Japanese discovered the cultured pearl. Nowadays pearl diving in the UAE is reserved as a hobby for qualified divers. Nasser, who has been director at the Diving Village for 15 years, says: “My father passed away but he told me many stories about his pearl diving days. It remained a huge part of his life and something he never forgot. He even got his open-water scuba diving certificate in the 1980’s so that he could carry on diving. He was very happy that we are trying to keep the memory of pearl diving in the UAE alive at the Diving Village. That is something I will continue to do.”

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AN IDEAL SETTING FOR TODAY’S BUSINESS TRAVELLER

Situated on the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road and minutes away from some of Dubai’s key locations. Offering elegantly styled rooms with unrivalled views accompanied by modern facilities, inimitable hospitality and outstanding service.

PO Box 191055, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, T: +971 (0)4 387 7777 F: +971 (0)4 438 7778, www.millenniumhotels.ae Untitled-14 1

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DISCOVER

A closer look...

Dubai’s art scene The cultural community of Alserkal Avenue is home to a vibrant artistic collective

A WIDE GAZE Alserkal Avenue is next month expanding to welcome almost 40 home-grown creative initiatives across myriad fields including art, architecture, media, design and fashion. Extending Alserkal Avenue’s contemporary art focus, the extension will house not-for-profit artists’ studios and residency programmes, project spaces, concept stores, a black box theatre, independent cinema, unique food and beverage outlets, outdoor event facilities for film screenings, concerts and community-led cultural initiatives

Nestled amongst the industrial buildings and warehouses of the city’s Al Quoz art district is bustling cultural hub Alserkal Avenue.

The eclectic zone is a warren of local and international art galleries where visitors can experience a wonderful cultural selection. The innovative space was launched in 2007, the brainchild of local arts patron Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal. Forward-thinking Alserkal felt the booming city had a need for a dedicated cultural centre.

In 2008, Ayyam Art Centre was the first gallery to open, and the Avenue has grown steadily since.

Today, 10 contemporary art galleries, and a host of other creative businesses, call Alserkal Avenue home and have grown to become international success stories, while at the same time, fostering the UAE’s diverse local talent. Green Art Gallery and Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde were the first two galleries in the Gulf to participate in Switzerland’s renowned Art Basel. At Salsali Private Museum, a dedicated space encourages collectors to meet, discuss and support their ideas and collections, while regional performing arts and music are supported at The Fridge.

A wonderful way for visitors to explore the Avenue, ‘Galleries Night’ is held regularly throughout the cooler months and sees the neighbourhood’s lanes come alive as art spaces unveil new exhibitions, music performances are held and and art talks delve into fascinating cultural topics. Having grown with the support of the Alserkal family, the space is a wonderful artistic oasis in the city and is well worth an exploration.

Where: Al Quoz, Dubai Visit: alserkalavenue.ae

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Experience Set sail

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One of the best ways to make the most of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coastal location is on a yacht cruise. Take in the picture-perfect vistas from a unique vantage point, out on the Arabian Gulf, where sights such as Palm Jumeirah and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skyline can be appreciated from a fresh perspective. Board a luxurious vessel and set sail from a number of berths across the city including Dubai Marina.

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Roger Federer vs. Novak Djokovic

T E N N I S C H AM P I ON S HI PS / E XPE R IE NCE

Serving up success The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is one of the emirate’s longest-running sports competitions and remains a major highlight on the annual events calendar Words by

Olivia Cuthbert

When the first Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (DDFTC) took place back in 1993 it attracted little attention. Tennis was not a big sport in the UAE and, without a line-up of famous players to draw the spotlight, interest in the event was tepid at best. This obscurity didn’t last long, however. Over the years the event gained momentum as a bulging prize purse and the launch of the new Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in 1996 lured increasingly high-profile players to the city’s courts.

This month, the championship celebrates its 22nd year, swinging into action on February 15 with the Dubai Women’s Open. The hotly contested event, which will see the likes of Serena Williams, Jelena Jankovic, Agnieszka Radwanska and Sara Errani battle it out on the courts, is followed by the Dubai Men’s Open from February 23 to 28. Favourites to win the US$2 million prize in the men’s tournament this year include Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, who have previously won six times and four times respectively.

These days, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship’s status on the international tennis circuit is firmly cemented and the event has been named ATP World Tour 500 Tournament of the Year 10 times over the past 11 years. The vote is cast by the players and reflects the popularity of the event not just in terms of the sport but the hospitality and entertainment that goes on around it. Concierge speaks to the teams behind this exciting event in the build-up to the 2015 tournament.

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A word from the organisers The team at Dubai Duty Free are responsible for arranging the championships every year.

Offering an insight into the work that goes into staging the event, a spokesman says: “There are many factors that contribute to the success of this tournament, not least the city itself and the hospitality we offer to players and fans alike. There is a real carnivaltype atmosphere around the stadium and families can enjoy the entertainment that is going on, especially over the weekends.

“The tournament has grown from strength to strength over the years and has won an impressive 26 highly acclaimed awards for excellence since its launch in 1993. In addition to its recognition as ATP World Tour 500 ‘Tournament of the Year’ on no less than 10 occasions, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships has received the prestigious ATP Award for ‘Media Excellence’ four times alongside numerous other accolades that now populate its trophy cabinet.

“Over the years we have seen the tournament grow and now the event regularly attracts the world’s best players, which is

a testament to its stature and popularity.

The players appreciate the way the tournament is organised and delivered and enjoy the warm welcome they receive every year.

“There is plenty to see and do and the organisers make every attempt to give the players a true Dubai experience during their stay with us while the fans, whether tennis enthusiasts or not, appreciate the skill of the players and enjoy the wonderful facilities and entertainment on offer.”

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1 Fans at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2 Last year’s winner Roger Federer 3 Novak Djokovic

The tournament has grown from strength to strength over the years and has won an impressive 26 highly acclaimed awards for excellence since its launch in 1993

A fan’s perspective

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For tennis fans, the event is a fantastic opportunity to see top stars in action. Jane Liardon attends the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships every year.

“I have attended DDFTC every year since 2002 and in my opinion it is the highlight of Dubai’s sporting calendar. It’s an event that can be enjoyed by everyone. The main body of attendees in the stadium does seem to consist of tennis fans but around the stadium all kinds of people gather to join in the fun and watch the event on giant screens. People enjoy the general ambience and jovial atmosphere this event always brings. It’s also, of course, a chance to see some top international players on court as DDFTC always has a line up of world-class players to watch.

Compared to other tournaments on the international circuit I feel that this event really stands out in terms of its fantastic ambience, which is carried through to the Irish Village and surrounding restaurants.

It’s also more accessible than many other tournaments at this level. While the ticket

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For more information on Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships visit:

dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com For tickets visit: timeouttickets.com

4 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships wins the 2013 ATP Tournament of the Year Award 5 Caroline Wozniacki 6 Petra Kvitová

prices may have risen over the years, it’s still more affordable than many other tennis championships around the world. I also like that it’s not an enormous stadium so everyone has an excellent view from their seats and spectators get to feel as though they are really part of the event.”

View on the ground The team at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium offers an insight into preparations for the event. “A lot of work goes into preparing the stadium for the two-week tournament.

All courts have to be refurbished.

“Some 10,000 spectators come every year while others watch the action on big screens around the venue so the facility is very much in the spotlight.

“When it was inaugurated in February 1996, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium

was voted ‘Best Venue’ by players on the ATP World Tour. The stadium has since become a magnet for people seeking entertainment in Dubai. The stadium comprises a 5,000 seat centre court. It also has a VIP area and Royal Enclosure, press office, press interview rooms, WTA and ATP World Tour offices, television commentary boxes and changing rooms, as well as six further outside courts.

“When not being used for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships the stadium is also a leading concert venue and in the past has hosted the likes of Sting, Bryan Adams and Enrique Iglesias. Former world boxing champion, Chris Eubank, staged his first Middle East bout on centre court here in 1997 and, this coming May, the first outdoor darts tournament – the Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters will be held here.”

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Adventure playground Whether its getting up close to aquatic life or whizzing down the ski slopes, there’s plenty of thrilling fun to be had during a visit to Dubai Words by

Catherine Langley

There are few places that offer visitors as rich an experience as Dubai. From world-renowned shopping malls to illustrious hotels, this is a city that was made with visitors in mind. However, away from the glitz and the glamour, there is another side to the emirate and it’s geared towards those looking for something daringly different. Whether it’s experiencing the exhilarating rush of simulated skydiving at iFly Dubai or skimming the skyline in a hot air balloon, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to be enjoyed by families, thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. Either on land, sea or in the air, there’s something to suit every taste.

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1 Ski Dubai 2 Meet the penguins at Ski Dubai 3 Bounce Dubai

Ski Dubai Ski Dubai is one of the UAE’s most impressive and unusual attractions. The indoor ski centre, which at 22,500 square metres, is the size of three football pitches, successfully creates an alpine experience, complete with chilly minus-one-degree Centigrade temperatures and fluffy white snow. However, while the 85-metre-high ‘mountain’ draws in crowds, there’s more to this winter wonderland than carving up the slopes. Those with little ones can take advantage of the Snow Park. Here you’ll find a wintry playground of bobsled runs and toboggan hills as well

as the giant zorb balls, which roll passengers down a 10-foot ramp. Nature-lovers should book in for the Penguin Encounter to interact with Gentoo and King penguins in a replica Antarctic habitat. Alternatively, adrenaline junkies may like to check out the Freestyle Night, which is held the last Thursday of the month from 7pm.

Bounce Dubai

Where: Mall of the Emirates / When: Daily 10am to midnight / Price: AED200 for an adult ski pass and AED170 for children aged three to 13, AED225 for unlimited access to the Snow Park and AED150 for the Penguin Encounter / Contact: 800 386

This trampolining hub located in the heart of Al Quoz is home to over 80 interconnected trampolines, which are divided into five activity areas 3

Bounce Dubai opened its doors less than a year ago, but is already one of the city’s must-visit destinations. This trampolining hub located in the heart of Al Quoz is home to over 80 interconnected trampolines, which are divided into five activity areas.

Beginners can take their pick between the Free Jumping Zone, the Slam Dunk Area, the Dodgeball Pit and the Big Bag Area, while those who are familiar with tricky techniques such as wall running can venture into the Performance Zone. Staff are on hand to offer advice for those who wish to develop their skills and technique, but ultimately the concept is quite simply to have fun. It’s all about reliving that dizzy excitement you felt when you vaulted up and down on your parent’s bed as a child. On the subject of kids, little ones are welcome.

However, Bounce only admits children shorter than 110 centimetres from 10am to midday, so if you’re planning on bringing the kids, it’s best to get there early. Fitness buffs are also in luck because this activity doesn’t just tick the entertainment box, it’s also a fantastic workout, as 10 minutes of jumping is the equivalent to running for 33 minutes. With this in mind, Bounce Dubai recently launched its BounceFit sessions, which are held at 7am and 9am on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and are priced at AED120 per class.

Where: Al Quoz When: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight / Price: AED80 for one hour, AED70 for children under 110cm / Contact: 04 3211400

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AD V E N T URE ACTIVITIE S / E XP E R IE NCE

Dubai Balloon Adventures To see the Dubai desert from a new perspective, book a hot air balloon ride with Dubai Balloon Adventures. The trip begins with a 6am pick up, followed by a 30-minute drive into the desert area of Margham. While it’s an early start, the rising sun, as you ascend into the sky, allows you to marvel at the colours of the landscape below. From heights of 4,000 feet, passengers gain an overwhelming appreciation for the rippling sand dunes, camel and date farms and picturesque oases that dot the landscape below.

The entire experience takes four hours, including transfers and light refreshments.

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Where: Pick up at Dubai Festival City / When: Daily from 6am / Price: AED995 for adults, AED850 for children aged five to 12 / Contact: 04 285 4949 4 Dubai Balloon Adventures 5 Scuba diving with Al Boom Diving 6 iFly Dubai

Al Boom Dhow Cruise

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IFly Dubai If the idea of jumping from a plane at 12,000 feet seems too intense, compromise with a visit to iFly Dubai. This unique venue, located at Playmania at Mirdif City Centre, allows you to experience all the thrills of skydiving thanks to a gigantic wind tunnel with 400-horsepower fan that shoots you up into the air, simulating ‘freefall’ in a safe and controlled environment. The complete experience takes 45 minutes, including tuition on freefall techniques from a fully qualified flight instructor.

Once inside the wind tunnel, the flight lasts from around one minute, which is the optimum time for this activity. All the skydiving gear is supplied, including suits and helmets. As long as they can comfortably wear the safety equipment, children aged three and over are welcome.

Whether you choose to recline on deck or dive into the depths, there are few UAE experiences that match the dhow cruise to Musandam. Al Boom Diving offers a popular package that begins with an early morning pick up in Dubai at 6am, followed by a two-hour drive to the east coast town of Dibba. Once at Dibba Port, board a traditional dhow and set sail on the emerald sea. With the Indian Ocean on one side and the rugged Hajar Mountains on the other, the views alone are worth the trip.

That said, throughout the day visitors can enjoy, snorkelling, fishing, swimming and

even dolphin spotting. Those who are scubadiving certified can also enjoy two dives, with all the equipment provided. Don’t worry if you work up an appetite splashing in the fjords because a traditional Arabic buffet is served at breakfast and lunchtime so you’ll be well sated throughout the day.

The cruise finishes at 6pm when it arrives back at port in Dibba, just in time for you to catch the vibrant colours of the setting sun.

Where: Pick up from Al Wasl Road, boat departs from Dibba Port / When: Fridays from 6am / Price: From AED300 per person (plus AED200 for transfers), AED450 for scuba divers / Contact: 04 3422993

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Where: Mirdif City Centre / When: Sat to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Fri 10am to midnight / Price: From AED220 per person Contact: 04 2316292 / www.iflyme.com

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Taste Decadent dining

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Bringing the glitz and glamour of Monaco to Dubai International Financial Centre, Sass CafĂŠ remains one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most talked-about imports. Championing haute Mediterranean cuisine, opulent interiors and a sultry ambience that draws in the crowds, this stylish haunt is a place to see and been seen. Contact: 04 3527722

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Grass roots gourmet There’s an expanded progamme to this month’s Dubai Food Festival where the increasingly eclectic nature of the emirate’s culinary community is celebrated Words by

Olivia Cuthbert

Dubai has long been recognised for its sophisticated dining scene. High-end restaurants and five-star cuisine have paved the way for celebrity chefs and renowned culinary brands from all over the world to launch outlets in the city, adding to its reputation for fine fare in an exclusive destination.

As the upper echelons of Dubai’s dining establishments continue to enhance their offerings with the launch of evermore luxurious concepts, something else is happening at the opposite end of the scale. While demand for exclusive eateries remains high, a new and resounding cry has gone up from Dubai’s culinary community for gourmet food on the go.

Now, as the Dubai Food Festival launches its second edition with an expanded programme spread across three food-filled weeks, there is a firm emphasis on street cuisine and start-up culinary concepts. New and interesting takes on fast-food fare, from gourmet shawarma trucks to sophisticated street-food stands, have sprung up at markets, parks and beaches around the city, enhancing the culinary diversity of the emirate’s food and adding an entirely new layer of dining to Dubai.

It’s a trend that festival organisers are looking to highlight this year. “The city as a whole, together with the Dubai Food Festival 2015, is embracing the global street food movement, welcoming a number of vendors offering authentic delicacies representing the emirate’s resident population,” says HE Laila Mohammed Suhail, chief executive officer at Dubai Festivals & Retail Establishment (DFRE).

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This street culture theme will be celebrated in Street Nights, a new community initiative that brings together grass roots music, art and food for a dynamic display of Dubai’s underlying creativity. A series of local eateries will be on-site, recasting restaurant fare to suit street tastes. Participants can pick up snacks from different stands to sample the eclectic array of cuisines and dishes on offer as they admire art displays, watch live music performances and soak up the atmosphere of this energetic urban environment.

In a further collaboration between Dubai’s culinary and creative communities, awardwinning food photographer, Penny De Santos will display her work throughout the festival at Dubai International Airport. Meanwhile, the Food Truck Lunchtime Pop-Up Market, a convoy of food trucks, will travel around Dubai, pausing to set up in busy zones at lunchtime.

The concept plays into another of the Dubai Food festival themes which brings the multicultural nature of Dubai’s dining scene to the foreground. “Home to more than 200 nationalities and visitors from all corners of the globe, Dubai is a market increasingly receptive to unique and multicultural food offerings,” explains Suhail.

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Home to more than 200 nationalities and visitors from all corners of the globe, Dubai is a market increasingly receptive to unique and multi-cultural food offerings

1 Dubai Food Festival Foodscape 2 Chefs get creative at Dubai Food Carnival 3 Dubai Food Carnival 4 Cooking demonstrations at Dubai Food Carnival

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Also taking place from February 12 to 14, Dubai Food Carnival is a foodie extravaganza that digs deep into the culinary character of the city. Set to feature more than 80 exhibitors with cuisines from over 20 countries, it’s a celebration of the cosmopolitan nature of local and international offerings that reflect the metropolis’ status as a major global gastronomic destination, says Caroline Furness, show director of Dubai Food Carnival. “The event is all about a fusion of cuisines, celebrated chefs, restaurants and lifestyle trends. It packages three days of family entertainment and food appreciation

for all nationalities across all age groups on a single platform,” she adds.

The eagerly anticipated Chef Dome is one of the key highlights of Dubai Food Carnival and gracing the celebrity stage with their presence this year are the award-winning British chef and food writer Silvena Rowe, Arabic cook Manal Al Alem, and television favourite Sanjeev Kapoor. Beloved for his bold flavours and traditional ingredients, Kapoor is a well-known figure on the city’s culinary scene, boasting three restaurants across Dubai, located in Dubai World Trade Centre, Mövenpick Hotel Deira and Meliá Dubai Hotel as well as the recently opened Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor in Abu Dhabi.

An appearance by Michelin-starred restaurant chef Jason Atherton is another one to look forward to. Having previously worked as the executive chef at Gordon Ramsay’s Dubai Creek restaurant Verre, the British talent has returned to Dubai to launch his new venture Marina Social which is expected to open later this year at InterContinental Dubai Marina. With a string of Social restaurant’s spread across continents from London to Shanghai, Atherton has already proven he has the recipe for success. Much to the delight of Dubai’s food fanatics it’s

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this signature blend of playful fare that he plans to bring to the region.

Celebrity chefs, Heinz Beck, the threestarred Michelin chef behind Waldorf Astoria Dubai’s Social by Heinz Beck and wellknown Australian-Lebanese chef Greg Malouf, the man behind the newly opened Clé Dubai, will also be participating in the Gulf Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF), to be held in conjunction with DubaiFood Festival. The event brings together top industry executives to discuss trends within the city’s food and beverage industry. “GRIF is about bringing new concepts to Dubai and locally born concepts to the world.

The fact this international event is taking place in Dubai proves that it is grabbing the attention of restaurant operators and investors from around the world,” says Jennifer Pettinger, managing director of Middle East for Bench Events, organiser of GRIF. A key ingredient to the festivities this year is Emirati cuisine, with the Dubai

Food Festival due to close with a celebration of Emirati food at Zabeel Park on February 27 and 28. The showcase will feature a host of Emirati and non-Emirati chefs creating innovating new dishes using traditional ingredients. For a long time, traditional UAE fare has been hard to come by for visitors to Dubai but a recent push to promote authentic local dishes has sparked curiosity from diners in the city. Venues such as Amaseena at The Ritz-Carlton Dubai are leading the way with authentic Arabic cuisine presented in the restaurant’s tented Bedouin Village setting.

This growing trend for authentic local fare is happening across the UAE and also forms a core element in the programme at Gourmet Abu Dhabi, the capital’s annual food festival which takes place this month.

Looking ahead to DFF, Dubai Carnival show director Furness adds: “The festival is unique precisely because it is true to the spirit of the region’s traditions.”

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A KEY TO THE EVENT DUBAI FOOD CARNIVAL:

A celebration of the diversity of Dubai’s dining scene, this familyfriendly event will feature 80 exhibitors with cuisines from over 20 countries. Highlights include the Chef Dome, cooking competitions and DFF Food Academy. Where: Dubai International Marine Club.

When: February 12 to 14 BEACH CANTEEN: Back this year following its success at the inaugural 2014 edition of the festival, Beach Canteen brings together some of the city’s homegrown dining concepts and celebrity chef pop-ups alongside entertainment in the form of live music, children’s activities, beach sports and more.

Where: Kite Beach, Jumeirah.

When: February 26 to 28

5 Chef preparing Emirati cuisine 6 & 7 Emirati dishes 8 Beach Canteen

STREET NIGHTS: More than 12,000 visitors are expected to take to the streets of Al Quoz for this event celebrating street culture as a whole with art, food, music and more. The weekend culminates in a giant warehouse party. Where: Al Quoz, Street 4B. When: February 20 to 21 TASTE OF PERU: The cuisine of

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the moment, Peruvian food has caught the world’s attention with its fresh, feisty flavours that bring together Spanish, Italian, African, Japanese and Chinese influences. A three-day celebration of this fabulous fare will take place during the festival, featuring the best of Peruvian cuisine. Where: Madinat Jumeirah Amphitheatre.

When: February 12 to 14

MYSTERY DINING TOURS:

A series of exotic epicurean journeys around Dubai will showcase the sheer variety of culinary experiences to be had here. Where: Multiple locations.

When: February 9 to 23. For more information and tickets visit: limeandtonic.ae FOOD TRUCK LUNCHTIME POP-MARKET: A culinary convoy

hits the road this month bringing street food lunches to busy destinations around Dubai.

STREET FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION: Food photographer,

Penny Los Santos’ beautiful pictures will be on display.

Where: Dubai International Airport and select festival locations.

When: February 14 to 29

DUBAI FOODSCAPE: UK-based

food artist Paul Baker has created a spectacular installation depicting the Dubai skyline and made from food.

GLOBAL RESTAURANT

INVESTMENT FORUM: Industry executives will gather to discuss the latest developments.

Where: Conrad Dubai.

When: February 16 to 18 GULFOOD: The world’s largest annual food, beverage and hospitality trade show gets underway this month.

Where: Dubai World Trade Centre. When: February 8 to 12

For more information and tickets visit: dubaifoodfestival.com

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Pipe dreams

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Concierge explores the Middle Eastern culture of shisha smoking and discovers the expertise required to prepare the perfect set-up

The shisha pipe has been an integral part of Middle Eastern culture for centuries and is a popular ritual for those looking to relax, socialise or simply pass the time of day. Although there’s no dispute that it came from this part of the world, the exact origins of shisha remain under debate with Turkey, Egypt, Syria and Iran all laying claim to the initiation of this historic practice. Its widespread use in this region has given rise to many different names and, depending on the destination, it may variously be referred to as shisha, hookah and narghile, among others.

All, however, refer to the same Arabian practice of inhaling flavoured tobacco through a waterpipe.

Today, shisha smoking remains a hugely popular recreational activity in the UAE and those looking to try it out will find an abundance of shisha lounges and cafés across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Hundreds of flavours are available, although beginners should

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generally stick to lighter flavours at first, such as choose strawberry, melon or cherry. Those seeking something more intense can opt for stronger tastes such as apple, grape or mint. In order to get the most out of the experience, it is advised that each pipe be used consistently for a specific flavour, as swapping between them can have a negative effect and contaminate flavours. In addition, coals should be changed every 10 minutes while water should be refreshed between each use and ice added to keep the smoke smooth.

Whether a beginner or a seasoned smoker, shisha is a practised art following these steps can enhance the experience in one of an abundance of the city’s shisha lounges. Shimmers at the stunning Mina A’Salam offers a beautiful beachside experience and is one of the most popular spots for shisha in Dubai. It’s the place to sit back, unwind with shisha and enjoy some delicious international cuisine.

Set at one end of the hotel’s pristine arc of sand, Shimmers is a deluxe beach shack with wooden floor, heavy furniture and an open slatted roof.

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With the perfect view of the Arabian Gulf and luxury hotel Burj Al Arab, it’s an excellent spot located right on the beach. While serving a range of beverages throughout the day, after sunset, Shimmers evolves into a laid-back venue, serving tasty barbecue dishes and pipes. Unwind with shisha and enjoy the offerings from the well-executed menu for a lovely evening with friends. With smooth beats in the background and quality snacks on offer, it’s an experience to remember beneath the stars. Elsewhere in Dubai, Sama Lounge offers sensational panoramic views and a fantastic selection of shisha to sample.

Its location on the 35th floor of Ramada Plaza

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Jumeirah Beach Residence affords fantastic vistas out to Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Gulf, as well as back towards Dubai Marina.

The terrace offers plenty of space to sit back and relax with a choice of shisha flavours. Choose from a menu consisting of traditional bites, as well as Arabic coffee to sip on as you smoke.

Soak up the lively atmosphere and unwind with shisha at this chic spot and savour the traditional tastes of Arabia.

SHISHA SPOTS Shimmers Where: Mina A’ Salam, Madinat Jumeirah When: Daily, 12pm to 1.30am Contact: 04 3666730

Sama Lounge Where: Ramada Plaza Jumierah Beach Residence When: Fri and Sat, 3pm to 2am, Sun to Thu, 5pm to 2am Contact: 04 4398888

Shisha smoking remains a hugely popular recreational activity in the UAE and those looking to try it out will find an abundance of shisha lounges and cafés across Dubai

1 Traditional shisha pipe 2 Fruit, such as pineapple, can be hollowed out and used as a tobacco bowl to enhance the flavour 3,4 & 5 Tobacco is placed in a clay bowl and then covered with tin foil and burned with hot coals 6 & 7 Shimmers 8 & 9 Sama Lounge

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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.

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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

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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 FEB15.indd 82

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.

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GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

1 Galeries Lafayette Dubai 2 Chloé, The Dubai Mall 3 Gucci Resort 2015 4 Boulevard at Jumeirah 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.

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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)

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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.

GALLERY ISABELLE VAN DEN EYNDE

04 3790940

04 3235052

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

GREEN ART GALLERY

04 3469305

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.

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

Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2

04 3536233

CARBON 12

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

Timings: Sat to Thu 11.30am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

MAJLIS GALLERY

This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists.

MARSAM MATTAR

04 3988331

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY

to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

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

04 3477883

04 4250400

Timings: Sun to Thu

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

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 to 9pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm, Sat 10am to 2pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

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

04 3406016

04 3230909

MEEM GALLERY

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

SHOWCASE 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.

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

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

THE MOJO GALLERY

04 3477388

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

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

2

3

TOTAL ARTS

04 3475050

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

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

04 3470209

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

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

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

NET TOURS DUBAI

04 3764333/056 1718881

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

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.

04 2629993

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6289667

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

1 Dubai Miracle Garden 2 Jebel Ali Golf Resort 3 The Yellow Boats 4 Dubai Creek Park 5 Madinat Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab

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

04 3344330/04 3357676

per person

04 2573084

2

LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

02 4448866

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

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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.

6 Egyptian Gold Facial at Raffles Spa Dubai 7 Helidubai 8 Snow Penguins, Ski Dubai

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 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.

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

7

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

90

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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 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

10

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

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

Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing.

9 Waldorf Astoria Spa, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah 10 At the Top, Burj Khalifa Sky 11 Global Village

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

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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

12

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.

04 2096000

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™

GALLERIA ICE RINK

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. 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

Guide price: Call for details

Motor sports

AED650 for two hours

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am

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

13 DESERT RANGERS

04 3402408

Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve.

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.

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.

Timings: See website Guide price: Private tuition

Guide price: AED2,000 12 Camel Racing 13 Desert Safari 14 Meydan Stables

Shooting

starts at AED1,500

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

An indoor and outdoor shooting academy.

Mountain biking

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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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.

AL QASR, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

AURIS PLAZA HOTEL AL BARSHA

Umm Suqeim

Al Barsha

04 3668888

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

04 8329900

Treat a loved one to an intimate Valentine’s Day experience with a private, candle-lit table for two on the beach. The menu, which takes its inspiration from the sea, is served with a bottle of Taittinger Champagne for AED4,000 per couple.

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

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

Liwan – International Shayan – Iranian Yasmin Lounge – Lounge

AL MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA Desert

Al Diwaan – Organic fine dining

AL MANZIL HOTEL

ARABIAN RANCHES HOTEL & GOLF CLUB

04 4285888

04 3663000

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.

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.

Downtown Dubai

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

Dubai

Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB15.indd 94

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

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

1 Jamie's Italian, Jumeirah Beach Hotel 2 The Thai Kitchen, Park Hyatt Dubai 3 Toko Dubai 4 World on 44, Warwick Hotel Dubai

CONRAD DUBAI

04 4447444

Sheikh Zayed Road From February 12 to 14 enjoy a four-course Valentine’s Day sharing menu for AED675 per couple. Opt for the paired wines option for an extra AED375 at Marco Pierre White Grill.

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

Deira

Green Community

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.

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Desert

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, DUBAI GREEN COMMUNITY

04 2387777

2

04 8096100

ASIANA HOTEL

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

94

04 4554800

04 8852222

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

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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 across 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

DUBAI MARINE BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3461111 Jumeirah

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

04 4573388

Palm Jumeirah Discover a sumptuous seafood menu and gorgeous views at Seagrill on 25°.

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

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

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

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

FUJAIRAH ROTANA RESORT & SPA

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES

Oud Metha

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

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

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

GRAND MILLENNIUM DUBAI

04 4299999 Al Barsha

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

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

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

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5

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.

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

6

7

HABTOOR GRAND BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3995000

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

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

HATTA FORT HOTEL

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.

5 La Parrilla, Jumeriah Beach Hotel 6 Radisson Royal Hotel, Dubai 7 Dates 8 Imperium, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

HYATT REGENCY DUBAI

04 2091234 Deira

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

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

JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3300000 DIFC

Savour contemporary Birtish dishes and scrumptious at The Ivy Dubai.

Alfie's – English

JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY

Cubo Pasta – Italian

04 7011111

Swing to the tunes of a Broadway pianist while enjoying a four-course set menu at Terra Firma Steakhouse on February 14 for AED550 per couple, excluding drinks.

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

JA JEBEL ALI BEACH HOTEL

04 8145555 Jebel Ali

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

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

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

Friday brunch at Nomad includes international cuisine and drinks.

Dubai Festival City

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

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.

Dubai Creek

INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

Zabeel

HILTON DUBAI JUMEIRAH RESORT

04 3991111

04 2308555

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

04 3324444

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

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

JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE 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

04 4530000

Palm Jumeirah Rib Room hosts a special fourcourse Loch Fyne Seafood set menu on Valentine’s Day with a glass of Champagne for AED800 per person.

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 vibrant cuisine.

Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Maya – Mexican Brasserie – International Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Shades – Sports bar Geales – Seafood

MEDIA ONE HOTEL

04 4271000

Dubai Media City 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

9

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

04 2270000 Deira

TEA TIME

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

Deira

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

Enjoy brunch with a difference every Friday at Urban bar & kitchen.

Urban bar & kitchen – Modern bar nosh – International Crema lobby lounge – Lobby lounge

MILLENNIUM PLAZA DUBAI

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road

10

Lemon Pepper – International La Terrasse Bar & Terrace – Bar Cinnamon – Lounge Shoko Café – Coffee, quick bites Moriana – Arabic club

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Shimmers offers stunning beach-side dining.

For a taste of Italy, don't miss a mouthwatering meal at Frankie's and there's also internationally renowned restaurant Wagamama.

Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining Zheng He's – Chinese Tortuga – Mexican

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RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI MEDIA CITY

04 3669111

Dubai Media City 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

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BUR DUBAI

Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai – Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house Citrus Express – Snacks

Bur Dubai

ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE

RADISSON ROYAL HOTEL DUBAI

Al Sufouh

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 3366000

04 3999999

With six dining establishments, guests are spoilt for choice.

Celebrities serves up international cuisine in a stunning setting overlooking lush landscaped gardens.

Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Lebanese Pulse The Club – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International

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 4440111 Deira

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this five-star property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes.

ONE&ONLY THE PALM, DUBAI

Jigsaw – International Options by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian Jigsaw – International

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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Downtown Dubai

Entre Nous is the destination for fine gourmet fare from around the world.

OASIS BEACH TOWER

04 3668888

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

9. Arabic afternoon tea, Al Bayt 10. The Rib Room, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray 11. Junsui, Burj Al Arab

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

Umm Suqeim

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

Jumeirah Beach Residence

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMIERAH LAKES TOWERS

A quaint, old-school hotel located in Deira.

MINA A' SALAM, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK

04 4498888

Spanish hotel Meliá Dubai has a number of dining options; including celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor's Indian restaurant.

Speciality restaurant Al Mashrabia offers local and Mandi cuisines.

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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Round 1: 6-7 March 2015

600LAPS

Round 2: 1-2 May 2015

TEL: 04 436 1320 • EMAIL: KARTING@DUBAIAUTODROME.COM

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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 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.

This Valentine's Day, indulge in a romantic five-course dinner for two served with sparkling wine at Porterhouse Steaks & Grill for AED750 couple.

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road

Manava – International Moana – Seafood Porterhouse Steaks & Grills – Steakhouse 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

TAJ PALACE HOTEL

04 2232222 Deira

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.

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

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 Feast on a four-course set menu for AED500 per couple at Cabana, on February 14.

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 888344

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.

Equus Bar – Poolside dining Cube Sports Bar – Bar Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steakhouse The Track Restaurant – International Shiba – Asian

THE OBEROI, DUBAI

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 Al Bayt 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

Caviar, bubbles and truffles are the order of the day at Center Cut this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy for AED800 per couple.

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 This Valentine’s Day Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah will host a private beach dinner experience, with a delectable seafood menu served to you and your partner at a candlelit cabana. Priced at AED1,600 per couple excluding drinks.

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

Savour Paella Saturdays at El Sur. Dine on a selection of starters and desserts accompanied by a traditional mixed paella. Prices start from AED195 with soft drinks.

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 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 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 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

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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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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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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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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.

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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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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.

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Icon for shopping area or mall.

19/01/2015 19:38

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My Dubai Designer Khalid Shafar shares his highlights of the city

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1 The Beach Mall 2 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

I was born in Dubai and I’ve lived here for most of my life. Dubai is more than a home town for me; it’s the main source of inspiration in my work. This city is full of energy and opportunities. Things grow faster here than any other place in the world and this makes the city very competitive.

Dubai’s mix of culture is very unique and its cosmopolitan community makes it an international hub in every sense.

Heritage and Diving Village is always my first stop when I want to immerse myself in culture. It’s wonderful to see ‘old’ Dubai from the creek and chat with some of the older generation about Dubai’s rich past.

It’s also a great place to take any visitors on holiday. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Dubai Museum are another two areas I often take visiting friends and family. Then, when it comes to showing guests Dubai’s new developments, we’ll head to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and The Beach along Jumeirah Beach Residence.

Dubai is internationally revered for its selection of retail. Personally, Mall of the Emirates is my preferred shopping centre. I especially love visiting Harvey Nichols and Boutique 1 as they have a fantastic mix of

brands and products. Weekends are really about unwinding. Early mornings are perfect for a run along the beach followed by a good breakfast with a few close friends. Some of my favourite spots include Tom & Serg in Al Barsha, Baker & Spice and Lime Tree Café. For a great cup of tea, I love the Blue Velvet blend at Vivel Café and for Arabic coffee or ‘qahwa’, I frequent Bateel Café and Mama Tani Café.

With so many spectacular restaurants on offer, I enjoy dining out. Teatro, loacted in Towers Rotana on Sheikh Zayed Road, is an old favourite and I’ve shared some wonderful memories with dear friends there. At Bateel Café, I find the idea of making most dishes with dates particularly fascinating and I love the freshness of the food, especially the duck and lentil risotto. For fine dining, you can’t beat Japanese restaurant Zuma. It has vibrancy, excellent design and the spicy beef tenderloin is a great choice.

I’m really looking forward to next month’s Dubai Art Week. I think it’s the most exciting event on Dubai’s social calendar with its choice of art, design and cultural activities.

The city always buzzes with energy as visitors from throughout the industry arrive.

Dubai is more than a home town for me; it’s the main source of inspiration in my work

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1/21/15 5:00 PM

STORES- Deira City Centre: +971 4 295 0066 | The Dubai Mall - The Souk: +971 4 339 9019 | Abu Hail: +971 4 297 8033 Mirdif City Centre: +971 4 284 0440 | Ras Al Khaimah: +971 7 233 5547 | Fujairah City Centre: +971 9 223 6860 | Yas Mall SCARVES & GLITTERS - Dubai Festival City | The Dubai Mall: +971 4 330 8135

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1/13/15 11:20 AM 12/01/2015 15:51