Concierge Dubai Sept 2014 by npimedia fz llc

SEPTEMBER 2014 | ISSUE 121

T H E

L U X U R Y

DUBAI EDITION

F I V E - S T A R

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M A G A Z I N E

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www.omegawatches.com

OMEGA Boutiques - Dubai: BurJuman • Deira City Centre • Dubai Mall • Dubai Festival City • Mall of the Emirates • Mina A'Salam • Mirdif City Centre • Sahara Centre • Waﬁ and at select Rivoli Stores. Abu Dhabi: Marina Mall • Toll Free: 800-RIVOLI

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www.omegawatches.com

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www.vacheron-constantin.com - www.thehourlounge.com

HALLMARK OF GENEVA

The Hallmark of Geneva is the emblem of Genevan watchmaking. Established in 1886, it ranks as one of the most distinguished marks of product quality. Independent auditors are appointed and sworn in by the State of Geneva to assure the complete controls and tests. The Hallmark of Geneva provides: • a guarantee of Origin • a guarantee of Precision • a guarantee of Durability • a guarantee of Know-How.

from the exterior of the timepiece to all components as well as verification of the entire set of operations leading to the finished watch. For over a century, Vacheron Constantin has been and continues to be the most fervent ambassador of the Hallmark of Geneva.

The entire mechanical watch is controlled and thus undergoes a complete certification,

Patrimony ultra-thin calibre 1731, minute repeater 30110/000R-9793

Vacheron Constantin Boutique, Mall of the Emirates, 1st floor, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Tel: +971 4 341 2424

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SEPTEMBER 2014 / ISSUE 121 / 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

Welcome to our 10-year anniversary edition

PRODUC T ION EDI TOR DE BR A FR E E M A N-T HOR PE CON T R IBU TOR S SA M A N T H A A R MST RONG OL I V I A CU T HBE RT GE M M A GR E E N WOOD C AT HE R IN E L A NGL E Y SA MI A QA I Y U M F E AT U R ES EDI TOR R ACH E L I NGR A M

Ten years is a long time in Dubai. Back then there was no Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates. The Palm was under construction and Dubai Marina consisted of just a few buildings. The city also had less than one-third of the hotel rooms it has today and a fraction of the activities and attractions. This is truly a destination unlike any other – a place that literally changes before your very eyes. We knew all this back in 2004 when Concierge magazine was conceived because we had already seen more change in a city than most people do in a lifetime. As a family, we have been in Dubai since 1986 when there was just one beach hotel and a four-by-four vehicle was a necessity rather than a luxury. The question for Concierge was not whether there would be a market for it, but if the time was right. Thankfully, we had timed it well. Visitors to this new tourism market displayed a real thirst for knowledge, best soaked up in the comfort of their hotel rooms where Concierge is distributed. And the audience was just large enough to make it of interest to advertisers seeking this new customer segment. In a city that never stops evolving, everyone must also adapt with it and that is what has happened with Concierge magazine. An Abu Dhabi edition was introduced in 2006 and UAE editions morphed into Arabic, Chinese and Russian. Concierge migrated into digital format, found its way online and is now entering a new phase with additional platforms to be launched towards the end of the year. The original magazine’s circulation has more than tripled and continues to rise each and every year. Like any venture, Concierge’s success is the sum of an entire team’s efforts and the support of key partners, of which we are lucky to have many. We have 32 hotel partners who have been with us from the very beginning and who we consider friends. Over 100 hotels have opened their doors since we launched and we have always been the first in room. Emirates Printing Press has printed every single one of the 121 editions because quality is the most important element in everything we do. We thank them and all our partners for believing in this magazine and in us, while we thank you for being the audience that makes everything we do possible. We hope you enjoy our anniversary issue and your stay in our wonderful city.

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 K A R E N A L M A Z A N-K A M P TON 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 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.

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SEPTEMBER 2014 | ISSUE 121

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

Rob Nicholas Publisher

SEPTEMBER 2014 | ISSUE 121

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

IN FOCUS

The spirit of Dubai is defined best by diversity. Its position at the crossroads of east and west makes for a fascinating mixture of cultures and customs that come together in a destination that is truly unique. Modernity and old-world charm sit side by side in a city that looks forward, while keeping a close eye on the past. As visitors flocked to Dubai over the past decade, they found a place like no other, where unforgettable moments became treasured memories. The emirate, and nation, now looks to the decades ahead and the even greater heights that undoubtedly await.

F I V E - S T A R V I S I T O R M A G A Z I N E

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

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Concierge’s circulation is independently audited by BPA Worldwide www.bpaww.com

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Robert Nicholas Chairman

DUBAI EDITION

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Contents SEPTEMBER 2014 / ISSUE 121

12/Essentials The definitive guide to the very best of the emirate

22/Reaching new heights

An aerial view of Dubai offers a fresh perspective on the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sights

Shop 26/Shopping by design

Over the course of the past 10 years, Dubai has emerged as a major contender on the international retail scene

34/The test of time

From humble beginnings, luxury watch purveyor Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons has grown into one of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest success stories

42/Traditional treasures Dubai is brimming with special shopping spaces where a wonderful blend of culture and character makes for a truly unique experience

46/In full swing 54/A special time As Concierge marks a major 10-year milestone, we take a look at some of the stand-out achievements in the world of fine watchmaking

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MIRAJ ISLAMIC ART CENTRE

As the city where the world comes to shop, Dubai owes much to the luxury brands that over the past decade have set up here

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Contents SEPTEMBER 2014 / ISSUE 121

Experience 62/Ship to shore Any itinerary of Dubai offers a whirlwind of stunning sights, historical attractions and thrilling activities to enjoy

68/Footprints in the sand Concierge ventures into the desert for this month’s picturesque photo essay

76/The gold standard

The pinnacle of luxury living, Dubai is the ultimate destination to enjoy the finer things in life

Discover 82/Reaching for the sky

In 10 years, a host of landmark developments has seen Dubai transformed into one of the world’s most impressive cities

FOOTSTPES OF THESIGER, WOUTER KINGMA

88/Voyage of discovery

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One of the greatest explorers in modern times, Wilfred Thesiger’s pioneering journey helped put the UAE’s majestic beauty on the map

92/A simpler time

Life for the desert Bedouin offered unique challenges and rich experiences

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ABU DHABI Avenue at Etihad Towers Tel. +971 2 6746200

DUBAI Al Qasr Hotel Tel. +971 4 4342223

Also available at RODEO DRIVE

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Contents SEPTEMBER 2014 / ISSUE 121

Taste 96/At the table Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eclectic gastronomy has evolved into an exciting culinary offering

100/A taste of tradition Delve into Arabian fare for a true taste of the region

OSSIANO, ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI

105 The guide

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128/My Dubai Couture designer Rami Al Ali shares his city highlights

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Brought to you in association with

Essentials

SEPTEMBER

E X PER I E NCE Burj Khalifa

Towering above the distinctive skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai is the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crowning glory Burj Khalifa. An essential during any visit, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest building is a stunning example of modern architecture and an incredible feat of engineering. Perhaps now one of the most instantly recognisable symbols of the city, its design was carefully considered to ensure the inclusion of traditional local elements. The base of the structure has been created to resemble a desert flower which grows in the region; the hymenocallis. When: Daily, 10am to 10pm. Visit: burjkhalifa.ae

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CONCIERGE: A JOURNEY Launched in September 2004, Concierge Dubai showcases the best of the UAE to the millions of visitors who come to the city each year. In carefully crafted words and striking imagery, during the past decade the magazine has recounted the story of the emirate. Pieces covering myriad topics have delved into Dubai’s rich past as a pearling and fishing port, charted the rise of the city from Bedouin desert roots to the futuristic metropolis it is today and explored the traditions that make any visit to the emirate an enthralling experience. APRIL 2010 | ISSUE 68

APRIL 2010 | ISSUE 68

DUBAI EDITION

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

At.mosphere

For a truly elevated dining experience, At.mosphere on level 122 of Burj Khalifa is the world's highest restaurant and lounge. This once-in-a-lifetime encounter promises sensational cuisine accompanied by remarkable views of the city and desert beyond. Start with a choice of refreshing cocktails in the sophisticated lounge before moving on to the restaurant for the very finest international fare. When: The restaurant opens for dinner daily from 6 to 11.30pm. The lounge opens daily from midday to 2am. Contact: 04 8883444

LICENSED BY INTERNATIONAL MEDIA PRODUCTION ZONE

TA S T E

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We have also explored the city’s burgeoning arts scene and profiled the emirate’s traditional artisans. Our photo essays have become a hallmark, whether portraying the extraordinary skills of watchmakers or shining a light on some of the country’s stunning landscapes. MARCH 2014 | ISSUE 115

MARCH 2014 | ISSUE 115

T H E

L U X U R Y

DUBAI EDITION

F I V E - S T A R

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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

E X PER I E NCE Jumeirah Beach Residence

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A charming open-air experience awaits visitors to The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence. Reminiscent of a European boulevard in its spacious design and cobbled walkway, this 1.7-kilometre stretch lines the vibrant waterfront community that overlooks the Arabian Gulf. The area offers much for visitors to explore including a mixture of five-star hotels, shopping and dining, while the white sands of Jumeirah Beach are just a few yards away. The area has been transformed with the opening of new mall, The Beach, where shopping, dining and entertainment outlets can be found along a pedestrian esplanade.

Concierge has also been present at all of the major events, going behind the scenes at the world’s richest horse race, Dubai World Cup, or trackside at the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. We have also tried the many attractions that make Dubai so special and mapped the incredible rise of the city’s dining scene. As a new decade beckons, Concierge is perfectly placed to continue to document the rise of this spectacular city.

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E X P E R I E NC E

ASK THE CONCIERGE

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

W E N DY R O Z O N . C O N C I E R G E AT R A D I S S O N B L U H O T E L DUBAI DEIRA CREEK, GIVES H E R R E C O M M E N DAT I O N S F O R A M E M O R A B L E S TAY

From the desert to the city, from sea to sky, there are any number of must-do activities for visitors to Dubai. A desert safari makes for an unforgettable encounter and several companies take guests out among the dunes to explore the majestic landscape. There's also nothing quite like the views from the observation deck in Burj Khalifa, At the Top, where sweeping vistas of the whole city can be seen. As a city of old and new, any exploration of Dubai begins by venturing into its two main areas, the historic quarter and the modern city. For a stunning panorama of the atmospheric old town area around Dubai Creek, I recommend a visit to Al Dawaar revolving restaurant at Hyatt Regency Dubai. The venue boasts a dining room that rotates 360 degrees, allowing diners to take in the fascinating scenes below. For a view of new Dubai, At.mosphere restaurant in the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, showcases futuristic Downtown Dubai. The city is full of excellent malls meaning there is plenty of choice for shoppers. The Dubai Mall is one of the best with a wide range of brands and a host of entertainment options. One of the hallmarks of dining in Dubai is the incredible variety on offer. From first-class service to the the finest ingredients, there is much to impress even the most discerning diners. Spectacular settings are also a key feature and this is nowhere more apparent than at Pierchic in Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, where the location on a pier jutting into the Arabian Gulf offers sensational views. Dubai has seen so much change over the past decade and I think part of its success is due to the attitude of its leaders. In their vision for the future, they ensure Dubai wows the world, offering a fresh concept and extraordinary experiences.

Discover the secrets of the deep at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo where an amazing insight into the world beneath the waves awaits. Located at The Dubai Mall, its 10-million-litre tank stops shoppers in their tracks. Home to more than 140 species including the world’s largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks, new residents include a 40-year-old King Croc and a giant Pacific octopus. When: Weekdays, 10am to 10pm, weekends, 10am to midnight. Visit: thedubaiaquarium.com

SHOP

The Dubai Mall One of the world’s premier retail destinations, The Dubai Mall is a shoppers’ paradise with over 1,200 stores featuring international designers, boutiques and a host of major fashion brands. Level Shoe District takes the experience to new heights offering a dedicated space for shoe designers, while style-conscious shoppers will feel right at home in Fashion Avenue, a haute couture haven. The Dubai Mall also boasts dining options, a cinema and ice rink, while The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa can be accessed from the mall. When: Sun to Wed, 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat, 10am to midnight. Where: Downtown Dubai. Contact: 04 3627500

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- Hollywood, Los Angeles Piaget Limelight Gala, White gold watch set with diamonds.

piaget.com

PIAGET BOUTIQUES: Abu Dhabi: Avenue at Etihad Towers, 02 667 0044 Dubai: The Dubai Mall, 04 339 8222, Mall of the Emirates, 04 347 6336 Dubai: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Atlantis 04 422 0233, Burj Al Arab, 04 348 9000, Burjuman Centre, 04 355 9090 Abu Dhabi: Al Manara International Jewellery, St. Regis Hotel, 02 6673535, The Galleria Sowwah, 02 6743444 Untitled-1 1

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D I S C OV E R Dubai Creek

This historic quarter is one of Dubai’s most culturally significant areas and offers an insight into the city’s past as a pearling and fishing port. The creek, also known as ‘Khor’ or heart of Dubai, dissects the city between Deira and Bur Dubai and is lined with traditional buildings made distinctive by their wind-tower architecture. Meander along the winding streets of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the city’s oldest district, for a colourful portrait of old Dubai. This enchanting quarter was built in 1859 and its streets are still steeped in the emirate’s history.

E X PER I E NCE Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is not only an incredible feat of architectural design, but in itself, is a wonderful locale where a true sense of the city can be felt. For those intent on a spot of shopping, Dubai Marina Mall offers a wide selection to choose from, including fashion brands and jewellery boutiques as well as souvenir stores. There is a selection of restaurants and cafés within the mall and the shopping venue provides direct access to neighbouring hotel The Address Dubai Marina, where fine-dining options can be sampled. As the sun sets, a swathe of bright colour shines from the marina’s distinctive skyscrapers.

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For the perfect discovery escape, your journey starts at

With Rotana Escape packages, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to open your mind. From exhilarating water sports, exciting desert safaris to adrenaline-filled extreme sports, we will ensure you of only the best experiences that the world has to offer. Find your perfect discovery escape. Book now at rotanaescapes.com Treasured Time. Our promise to you.

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SHOP

Madinat Jumeirah Myriad winding pathways and canals lend the Madinat Jumeirah resort a unique character. Amid this cluster of five-star hotels is one of the city’s most vibrant social spots. Visitors here enjoy extraordinary views from some of the city’s finest restaurants, bars and al fresco cafés. There’s a treasure trove of charming traditional buys to be had at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, from souvenirs and colourful lanterns to silk scarves and beautiful Persian carpets. Visit: jumeirah.com

E X PER I E NCE Desert safari

One of the most exhilarating experiences to be had during a visit to the emirate is undoubtedly a trip to the desert. Tour operators, such as Arabian Adventures, can take care of the arrangements and ensure a memorable outing. Start the day by crossing the majestic dunes in a four-by-four vehicle to make your way to the first stop, a camel farm. After a lively encounter with these characters, continue on to a traditional Bedouin desert camp for a host of activities, from henna hand painting to belly dancing and an authentic Arabian barbecue. Visit: arabian-adventures.com

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SHOP Montblanc

German luxury brand Montblanc has been synonymous with quality, innovation and extraordinary craftsmanship for more than a century. First celebrated for beautiful writing implements, the brand’s pioneering trajectory has seen it lead the way in timepiece design before adding jewellery, leathers, fragrances and sunglasses to an impressive portfolio. A new special collection recognises one of the maison’s most significant moments. Some of the finest skills in watchmaking design are showcased in the Meisterstück Heritage Perpetual Calendar. The piece is the jewel of the Montblanc Meisterstück Heritage Collection, which is inspired by the illustrious 90-year heritage of the Montblanc Meisterstück fountain pen. A triumph in mechanical design, the new timepiece is both accessible and technically advanced with the perpetual calendar grand complication always able to display the correct date, requiring no manual adjustment. Two variations are available, in rose gold and stainless steel. Both feature slim, blue hands on the calendar display, standing out against the silver and white cambered dial. Hour and minute indices are gold-plated while the sapphire crystal case back reveals the Montblanc calibre MB 29.15. A sleek black alligator-skin strap offers an exceptional finish. The Montblanc Meisterstück Heritage Perpetual Calendar is available at the brand’s boutique in The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 4340300

E X PER I E NCE The Dubai Fountain

Powerful jets send streams of water soaring into the air in a sensational display, staged daily at Downtown Dubai at the foot of Burj Khalifa. An undoubted highlight for any visitor to the city, The Dubai Fountain cleverly choreographs water, light and music with stunning results. Free to watch, fountain shows take place at 1pm and 1.30pm and then every 30 minutes from 6 to 11pm. Each offering is accompanied by a beautiful programme of music, carefully choreographed to the flow of the water. Each instalment attracts large crowds hoping to take advantage of the stunning photographic opportunities or simply to stand back and take in the stirring show. Visit: thedubaimall.com

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Reaching new heights

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

S NA P S HOT

Extraordinary is perhaps the most fitting term to use when describing the many elements that come together in Dubai. Few destinations around the world comprise such an eclectic mixture of cultures, experiences and landscapes within one unique location. One of the best ways to gain a fresh perspective on all the emirate has to offer is to take to the skies for an aerial tour and a number of companies provide the opportunity in a seaplane, helicopter or balloon. Once in the air, this shining modern metropolis can be fully appreciated in panoramas stretching the length of the city to include some of its greatest wonders, such as the impressive architecture of Downtown Dubai and crowning glory of Burj Khalifa. Soar over the Arabian Gulf along Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pristine coastline above manmade island Palm Jumeirah and one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most decadent hotels, Burj Al Arab. A little further along the coast and the clouds part above Dubai Marina where clusters of towers stand in testament to great feats of architectural innovation. Circling back and a view over Dubai Creek as it flows out of the city past the old town and on to the Arabian Gulf affords a glimpse into a rich past that is very much an important part of life today. From the sky, Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position at the crossroads of east and west, where the ocean meets desert and the past and present intertwine, makes for a truly unforgettable view.

Shop Salvatore Fer ragamo

Nature meets humanity in the much-anticipated Salvatore Ferragamo autumn/winter 2014 campaign. Models pose against a stunning backdrop of a field of flowers, showing off snug capes, pleated skirts and new Fiamma handbags, while animal prints inject a pop of colour to moody ensembles. Discover the sophisticated collection at Salvatore Ferragamo, The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 3308590

Shopping by design The city’s mega-malls and a host of high-profile events are upgrading Dubai’s status from shoppers’ paradise to bona fide shopping capital Words by

Samia Qaiyum

Over the course of the past decade Dubai has been transformed in myriad ways, rising from the desert to become one of the world’s most visited destinations. At the heart of that metamorphosis has been the creation of an extraordinary shopping offering that has come to define the city. Gleaming malls have attracted the world’s foremost designers, brands and stores as visitors flock to retail palaces where the experience of shopping has been fine tuned to become something of an art that combines retail, leisure and entertainment under one luxurious roof. The last 10 years have witnessed the opening of sprawling shopping centres such as The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, as well as a host of luxurious spaces around the city boasting exclusive brands. As well as must-have labels, high-street brands and quirky boutiques, the malls also offer outstanding dining and entertainment options. Add to that a host of unexpected extras such as an indoor ski resort and an aquarium and the traditional notion of a mall takes on an entirely new meaning in Dubai. A 2014 study by real estate consultancy CBRE confirmed Dubai has retained its position as the second most important international retail destination globally for the third year in a row, closely behind rival London. As a destination where the world comes to shop, Dubai has much in store.

THE DUBAI MALL

RE T A I L S CE N E / S HOP

SHO P/ RETA IL SCEN E

Mall to mall Among its many retail attractions, Dubai also boasts the world’s largest shopping centre. The Dubai Mall is spread across a staggering 5.9 million square feet and features more than 1,200 stores, over 200 food and beverage outlets, French department store Galeries Lafayette, the first Bloomingdale’s outside the US and even a waterfall. Yet all this is just the beginning. Families seeking entertainment alongside a day of retail therapy can choose from the world-class Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, innovative children’s edutainment concept KidZania, an indoor theme park, the 22-screen Reel Cinemas megaplex and the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink. While the average shopping mall provides amenities such as strollers for rent, The Dubai Mall takes it to the next level with porter and personal translator services – and even indoor taxi carts to chauffeur shoppers

from store to store. The Dubai Mall attracted over 75 million visitors in 2013, a number that surpasses that for New York’s Times Square and Niagara Falls. Expansion is underway in anticipation of 100 million visitors annually; the first phase will extend the mall by a million square feet to further strengthen its fashion offering. For those whose appetites for shopping cannot be satiated at The Dubai Mall, there’s also the immensely popular Mall of the Emirates. This multi-level shopping centre features everything that Dubai shoppers have come to expect – over 560 international brands and more than 90 dining options – to the not so obvious. It is home to Ski Dubai – the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East – which means shoppers can also enjoy skiing, snow boarding, tobogganing and more. The mall is also currently undergoing a multi-phase

1 The Dubai Mall 2 Mall of the Emirates

The Dubai Mall attracted over 75 million visitors in 2013, a number that surpasses that for New York’s Times Square and Niagara Falls. Expansion is underway in anticipation of 100 million visitors annually

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3 Fashion District, Mall of the Emirates 4 Mercato Mall 5 Dimitri Vazelakis

redevelopment, worth around AED1 billion (USD272.3 million) to add new shopping, dining and entertainment concepts. Earlier this year, the luxurious new Fashion District was unveiled as part of phase one. It features 30 stores, including brands such as McQ and Halston Heritage debuting in Dubai as standalone boutiques. For those looking for a mid-size mall alternative there is plenty to choose from with venues located throughout the city such as Dubai Festival City Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Marina Mall, Mercato Mall and BurJuman. Even smaller ventures are also rapidly becoming a feature in Dubai, as evidenced by new additions to the retail landscape Citywalk and Wasl Square, bringing an outdoor community feel with tree-lined walkways, cafés and restaurants. Majid Al Futtaim Properties – which boasts a portfolio that includes Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre and Mirdif City Centre – is set to build up to 20 more malls in this smaller format in Dubai over the course of the next few years. Dimitri Vazelakis, executive managing director shopping malls, Majid Al Futtaim Properties, says: “Our research indicates that there is a growing appetite for neighbourhood retail concepts.”

In the spotlight Dubai has become the region’s hub for fashion and cultural events and is certainly on its way to sharing the spotlight with fashion capitals across the globe. Biannual event Fashion Forward sees Madinat Jumeirah bustle with fashion shows highlighting the talents of established and emerging regional designers, presentations, pop-up stores and round-table discussions with industry leaders. Striving to develop a dynamic and sustainable fashion platform for the region, it returns next month for a fourth season.

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Commenting on Dubai’s evolving relationship with fashion, Bong Guerrero, founder and CEO of Fashion Forward, says: “The melting pot of cultures in the city means we attract international brands from across the world to open stores here, but also gives us a unique and rich talent base. Home-grown talents designing and selling here boost not only the visibility of Dubai as a fashion hub, but also the local economy.” The weeks following Fashion Forward will see the second edition of Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience – held in conjunction with Vogue Italia. The inaugural instalment last year saw the participation of over 250 global brands and welcomed high-profile guests to The Dubai Mall such as Roberto Cavalli and Naomi Campbell. Franca Sozzani, editor-in-chief of Vogue Italia, said: “Dubai is the must-be place for the global fashion industry.” Perhaps the greatest recent example of Dubai’s fashion credentials was the staging of Chanel’s 2014 Cruise show. Karl Lagerfeld’s Arabianinfused collection was viewed by fashion industry guests and A-listers who flocked to the exclusive show. When asked why he chose Dubai as the venue for the mid-season showcase, Lagerfeld enthused: “This is the world of tomorrow.”

MORE TO COME Exciting additions are planned for Dubai’s shopping scene:

• A one-million-squarefoot shopping mall, anchored by a Carrefour supermarket, within the International Media Production Zone by retail giant Majid Al Futtaim. • Mall of the World, scheduled for completion in 10 years, will be a sprawling temperaturecontrolled indoor city and shopping complex • Five floors of retail stores to accompany hotels and a Las Vegasstyle theatre within the Al Habtoor City Business Bay development • A retail plaza alongside luxury hotels, at The Opera District in Downtown Dubai • A souk-inspired mix of retail stores on Bluewaters Island • Nakheel Mall on Palm Jumeirah set within one million square feet alongside a five-star hotel and 180-metre high viewing deck 6 Chanel Cruise show in Dubai 7 Ezra show at Fashion Forward

The greatest recent example of Dubai’s fashion credentials was the staging of Chanel’s 2014 Cruise show. Karl Lagerfeld’s Arabian-infused collection was viewed by fashion industry guests and A-listers 7

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The test of time Luxury watch retailer Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons has grown to become one of Dubai’s greatest family-run success stories

It began with a passionate young man who cut out and collected Swiss watch advertisements from imported magazines over 70 years ago. Fast forward to the present day and the same man’s dreams have evolved into the most prominent watch and jewellery retailer in the region; created with the help of his family. From humble beginnings to supreme watch authority, the history of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons is the key to its success. In the 1940s, entrepreneur Ahmed Qasim Seddiqi stepped onto the career ladder by working with a family member who dealt in general trading. As well as becoming a businessman, Seddiqi nurtured a passion for high-quality Swiss watches and spent many years travelling and collecting timepieces. His purchases, determined by his excellent eye for detail, quickly attracted the interest of many like-minded local watch enthusiasts. It was during this time that the idea for the company was born, leading to the launch of a single boutique in Souk Bur Dubai in 1960. Since its inception, Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons has played an integral role in bringing many premium brands to the UAE. Swiss watch brand West End was the first during the 1940s and came about when the founder travelled to Kuwait and purchased 12 timepieces which he then sold in Dubai. Over the following decades, 12 turned into hundreds of thousands, making the partnership one of the greatest success stories for Swiss watches in the Middle East. Rolex was another

significant acquisition in the 1950s and set in place a motion that would see Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons develop long-standing relationships with a host of high-profile brands including Chopard, Corum, Patek Philippe, Piaget, A. Lange & Söhne, Hublot, IWC Schaff hausen and TAG Heuer, among others. To this day, despite managing a portfolio of over 60 brands across 65 locations in the UAE, the company remains in the sole control of the Seddiqi family. In the beginning, the late chairman Ibrahim Ahmed Seddiqi worked closely with his father Ahmed Seddiqi to lay the foundations for the company to flourish into the successful brand it is today. Abdulmagied Ahmed Seddiqi, another son of the founder, has been chairman since 2007 and as such, continues to spearhead the company's legacy aided by his brother, vice president Abdulhamied Ahmed Seddiqi. Today, nine members across second, third and fourth generations of the Seddiqi family work together, managing every aspect of the business in-house, from creative strategies, sales, marketing and finance right through to human resources and administration. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons manages to maintain an assured level of quality by retaining control of every aspect of the before-, during- and after-sales process in a way that enables the company to live up to its core values of trust and honesty, world-class design and exceptional service, as set out by the founder.

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TAG HEUER CARRERA UAE LIMITED EDITION

S PE CI A L FE A T URE / S HOP

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E A R LY 19 5 0 s After introducing West End to the UAE in the 1940s, the founder's son, Ibrahim Ahmed Seddiqi, shapes history by obtaining the franchise licence for Rolex. This comes about in the 1950s after HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the late ruler of Dubai, advises the prestigious brand to partner with the family-owned company

E arly 19 6 0 s As the customer base rapidly grows, the Swiss Watch Service is established to provide after-sales services. A third member of the Seddiqi family, Abdulmagied Ahmed Seddiqi (pictured), joins the family business

L at e 19 6 0 s Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons expands from one small boutique in Souk Bur Dubai to a second showroom in what was the highest building in the Bur Dubai area at the time. The company begins developing partnerships with premier brands

E arly 19 8 0 s The business continues its expansion across Dubai. In 1981 a fourth showroom is unveiled in the newly opened Deira Tower, displaying timepieces from recently acquired luxury brands such as Harry Winston and Chopard

lat e 19 80 s Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons receives a certificate of appreciation celebrating 40 years of working with West End. As well as acquiring brands such as Concord, TAG Heuer and Hublot, the company opens the first Chopard boutique in the Middle East (bottom) in Wafi Mall in the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

19 9 0 s As the network expands, third-generation family members, such as Mohammed Abdulmagied Seddiqi (pictured), vice president of sales and retail, begin taking on wider responsibilities

20 0 0 s The Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons' corporate office moves to Capricorn Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road (left). There, the company opens an after-sales care workshop and employs 25 highly skilled Swisstrained watchmakers to work on customers' timepieces. Almost all watch-related services can be completed in the workshop

Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons chooses its store locations wisely, targeting grand new openings such as famed hotel Burj Al Arab, where it opens a Chopard boutique (left), in addition to spaces in new malls as they begin to open across the city. The company opened the first Patek Philippe boutique in the Middle East at Wafi Mall in 2004, followed by another first in 2005 with a Rolex store at Mall of the Emirates. In 2007, the first fourth-generation member of the Seddiqi family joins the business, creative director Muna Mohammed Seddiqi (below)

L AT E 20 0 0 s The company's store expansion continues with openings such as the first Hublot store in the Middle East at Wafi Mall in 2008 (pictured). When The Dubai Mall opens its doors in the same year, Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons unveils stores for many of its brands, such as Piaget and Richard Mille

In 2007, Adhmed Seddiqi & Sons announces the construction of the Rolex Tower in Dubai; the first Rolex property not owned by the watchmaker but named after it, as a tribute to the strong relationship between the brand and Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. It was completed in 2010

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As testament to their treasured relationship with the company, a number of international brands, such as Corum (pictured top), Chopard and Baume&Mercier (pictured below), take a further step by releasing limited edition timepieces for Dubai shoppers. Hublot releases several special models, such as The Vision, designed by Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, of which only 100 pieces are produced in 2008

In 2008, vice chairman Abdulhamied Ahmed Seddiqi was named one of the ambassadors in fine watchmaking by Fondation De La Haute Horologie; an honorable award in the world of horology, launched by Cartier

E A R LY 2010 s As a tribute to the company’s 60-year history, Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons announced the launch of ‘Time for Emirates’, a unique and beautifully presented book dedicated to the history of the wristwatch

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BUR DUBAI SOUK

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Traditional treasures

Behind the contemporary allure of Dubai’s high-end brands and luxury labels lies a rich retail tradition of industrious enterprise and skilled craftsmanship. Scratch beneath the gilded surface to reveal myriad unique shopping experiences steeped in local custom. Nowhere captures the spirit of tradiDelve into the city’s colourful souks, tional Middle Eastern commerce quite bazaars and traditional shopping spaces like the souks with many famous examto discover the true heart of Arabia ples in the UAE, Egypt, Turkey, Israel and Morocco. Souks, meaning ‘marketplace’ in Arabic, originated in the Arab world centuries ago as outdoor shopping areas where trading for all types of goods was conducted amid jostling crowds and frenzied bartering. As the first communities began to settle along Dubai Creek in the 18th century, the old city became a major port where those from neighbouring countries, as well as Asia and the Far East, arrived with their wares by boat. The clamorous scene thronged with potters, weavers, butchers, fruit and vegetable sellers and merchants of precious metal and spices. Over the years, the fabric of the souks has evolved with better organisation and a broader range of modern goods, yet the bazaars in Deira and Bur Dubai still remain a hive of vibrant activity offering a fascinating window into the past. Issam Abdul Rahim Kazim, chief executive officer of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, believes traditional shopping is a must to capture the essence of the city’s retail environment. “Souks are an important part of Dubai’s heritage. On the banks of Dubai Creek, they are where Dubai’s story began and offer a completely different experience to the ultra-modernity of the shopping malls.”

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

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

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

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

in the piquant surroundings. In addition to spices, visitors will find dates and other dried fruits, as well as incense, tea and shisha. Close by, the adjacent stalls sell all manner of cooking utensils. On the opposite side of the creek and just an abra ride away, Bur Dubai Souk is the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and offers a wealth of treasures from colourful lanterns and intricate hand-woven carpets to silk scarves and traditional-style clothing.

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For those who appreciate a less frenetic pace, elsewhere in the city, several retailers have embraced the authentic souk experience and added a modern twist. Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Souk Al Bahar have both been designed with a strong Arabic influence in a contemporary setting, offering local handicrafts with jewellery, art, gifts, clothing and interiors brands for an eclectic shopping trip. Another of the city’s modern bazaars is Souk Khan Murjan at Wafi Mall. Modelled on an ancient underground souk in Baghdad, it brings together architectural influences from Egypt, Syria, Turkey and Morocco. The venue provides a creative community for artists and craftspeople designed to encourage skilled individuals to break into the retail world and showcase traditional products. Originally an interior architect, Abbas Saberi opened the Swan Palace gallery in Souk Khan Murjan where he makes copper, aluminium

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

and brass artworks decorated with genuine pearl, turquoise, red coral and Swarovski crystals. The pieces are inspired by famous Iranian poems, as well as poems written by his wife and many feature decorative Islamic art and calligraphy. “My artworks are a combination of four forms of art together in one handmade piece: poetry, embossing, engraving and painting on metal. The gallery has allowed me to bring a combination of new ideas and classical concepts to a wider audience,” he explains. Miraj Islamic Art Centre is a retail space in Jumeirah that has the hushed ambience of a

museum where opulent treasures are artfully placed alongside educational materials. Pieces on show include Islamic woodcarving, astrolabes and precious metal objects. “Intricate Persian and Kashmiri carpets are most popular with some exceptional jewelencrusted versions that customers purchase as investment pieces to pass on through generations,” says Manzoor Kachroo, director of sales at Miraj Islamic Art Centre. Dubai has much to offer contemporary shoppers and some of the most magnificent gems are those which celebrate the region’s absorbing heritage.

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PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER COLLECTION

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In full swing From humble beginnings with a few boutiques in Deira, a decade on and Dubai’s retail scene is thriving thanks to the presence of luxury brands

In Dubai, it wouldn’t be too unfair to suggest that appearance and quality is of paramount importance. From sleek towers, polished malls and luxurious hotels to exclusive labels and the highest standards in service, residents and visitors to the city expect the very best. Style plays a significant role and international brands have flocked to the emirate, bringing with them a wealth of sought-after items from across the globe. Luxury brands have been instrumental in Dubai’s stellar rise on the international shopping scene. With so many top brands on offer, residents and visitors walk the streets of the emirate as though it’s Paris, London, Milan or New York. The eye is continuously caught by glints of light reflected from the double-C logo of passing Chanel handbags and a wealth of diamond jewellery dripping from new-season ensembles. The excited chatter of voices comparing the latest solid-gold timepieces can be heard alongside the clatter of stilettos fresh from the catwalk. Visitors to malls can’t help but reach out to touch the luxurious fabrics on display in the designer boutiques. It’s safe to say that shopping has, at least in part, encouraged the city to blossom into what it is today; a global fashion capital in the making. This is largely thanks to the presence of international designer brands setting up shop on Dubai’s shores either independently or with local partners. As Concierge celebrates 10 years, we explore the unbeatable pull of Dubai, how luxury brands have contributed to the city over the past decade and what’s in store for the future.

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Key brands One of the first companies to see Dubai’s potential, from the launch of a single boutique in Deira in 1996 to 17 stores currently open across the UAE, Montblanc’s domination is evident wherever you shop. Montblanc CEO Jérôme Lambert says: “Montblanc has been present in Dubai for many decades and has been well-received from the very beginning. The company’s strong heritage

and fine craftsmanship continue to resonate with customers, both those new to the maison and those who have been customers for many years. Dubai is a dynamic market that geographically plays its position very well as a gateway between east and west.” High-end watch manufacturer Omega is another key brand that has expanded rapidly across the emirate. There are nine Omega boutiques in Dubai and the company has a number of refurbishment plans in place to update stores and provide even better services to customers. Stephen Urquhart, President of Omega, says: “Dubai has become one of the world’s top shopping destinations and Omega has taken full advantage of its spectacular development. It has been active in Dubai for decades but it was the opening of our first flagship boutique seven years ago that gave the necessary push to our development here. Although we were confident that the strategy undertaken in Dubai would be successful, it is great to see our hopes and targets materialised and even surpassed.”

Partners Local partners are responsible for bringing many of the international brands into the emirates, particularly watches and jewellery.

1 Stephen Urquhart, President of Omega 2 Omega De Ville Trésor 3 Stephen Gallacher, winner of Dubai Desert Classic receiving an Omega watch 4 Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Master Co-Axial

“Dubai has become one of the world’s top shopping destinations and Omega has taken full advantage of its spectacular development”

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Ronald Codrai ÂŠ TCA Abu Dhabi

Qasr al Hosn: The Story of Abu Dhabi and its People A permanent exhibition accompanied by a public programme of talks and workshops. For more information, please call 02 697 6472 or email qasralhosn@tcaabudhabi.ae Qasr al Hosn Centre, Abu Dhabi 09:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20:00

qasralhosnfestival.ae visitabudhabi.ae

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Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons is a family-owned company specialising in the distribution of Swiss watch brands. From humble beginnings in the 1950s, its current 65 outlets stock over 60 brands including prestigious names such as Rolex, Van Cleef & Arpels and Harry Winston. Luxury retailer Rivoli Group also concentrates predominantly on watches and highend lifestyle products citing Omega, Breguet, Montblanc, Tissot, Longines and Swatch on its client list among around 100 others. As well as supplying stores, Rivoli has launched a number of concepts such as Rivoli Prestige; boutiques displaying high-end watches and accessories from a vast range of brands, as well as gallery-style boutiques in five-star hotels including R Lounge in The H Dubai and Rivoli Arcade in Emirates Towers. Damas, one of the region’s largest luxury jewellery retailers, offers a unique concept that incorporates boutiques displaying products

5 Montblanc Meisterstück Heritage Pulsograph 6 Shopping in The Dubai Mall 7 Van Cleef & Arpels, The Dubai Mall 8 Montblanc Meisterstück 90 Years Collection cufflinks 9 Montblanc Villeret 1858 ExoTourbillon Rattrapante

from international brands – mainly jewellery, but also watches and accessories – plus Damas’ own lines of luxury jewellery. The company was founded in 1907 and opened its first store in the Gold Souk in 1959. It has more than 300 stores worldwide and works with top-end brands such as Garrard, Fabergé, Perrelet and Roberto Coin, among others.

Local heroes

In Dubai, many brands are going above and beyond to connect with the local market by launching special edition pieces, hosting unique in-store services or designing boutiques to include extra facilities such as VIP rooms. A trip to Cartier in The Dubai Mall is a key example of the latter. The boutique boasts a grand VIP room, accessed via a private lift at the back of the store. Here, customers can recline on sofas and are offered refreshments as they examine the latest collections first hand with the help of attentive sales assistants. Elsewhere, Montblanc boasts private viewing rooms in a number of its boutiques across the UAE.Montblanc’s Lambert says: “There is strong interest here for bespoke and limited edition items in the Middle East, especially in timepieces and writing instruments. Almost all our boutiques here will have some limited edition pieces.”

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The brand also offers customisation services such as the exclusive Bespoke Nib Service, allowing the nibs of customers’ writing instruments to be crafted to match their personal writing styles. Omega, on the other hand, takes a global approach to its product selections. Urquhart says: “The same watches and watch collections are sold in every Omega boutique around the world. The Constellatio or De Ville timepiece that you would find in a boutique in Dubai is exactly the same as the one you would find on Fifth Avenue in New York City.”

Dubai’s global reputation as the capital of innovation and luxury has been made by the influx of international brands such as these

10 Poppy Delevingne wearing Cartier 11 Winners of 2014 Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge 12 Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, The Dubai Mall 13 Jérôme Lambert, Montblanc CEO

Why Dubai?

A number of brands become involved with the local market through event sponsorship. Omega is the title sponsor of the Dubai Desert Classic and the Dubai Ladies Masters. Both competitions have seen the world’s top golfers grace the course at Emirates Golf Club. While Cartier hosts the annual Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge which sees top teams compete for the cup and a Cartier timepiece as VIP guests watch from the side lines.

So, why is Dubai so popular for such highly regarded international brands? Despite their differences, all the brands seem to have the same reasoning; that the emirate is a global hub where high-target consumers live and travel to. Lambert explains: “Middle East consumers are well-travelled and their knowledge and interest in Montblanc products comes from their travels. Our customers here are extremely discerning; recognising and appreciating the heritage of the maison.” Dubai’s reputation as the capital of innovation and luxury has undoubtedly been made by the influx of international luxury brands. Each year more and more companies choose to set up shop in the emirate and there is a wealth of projects underway to provide space for them, such as the one-million-square-foot expansion of The Dubai Mall. With these developments in mind, the only direction that Dubai’s retail scene is headed is upwards.

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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

A special time Prestigious timepiece creators have attained new heights in craftsmanship and innovation

Since the 1400s when rudimentary devices such as sundials were used to record the rhythms of night and day, man has strived to find new ways to measure the passing of time. Those efforts have resulted in a series of landmark feats as historyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innovators applied technical and artistic prowess to the fine art of watchmaking. As the decades passed, what began as a practical exercise to divide each day, soon turned into an art form as timepieces came to be regarded as adornments to be treasured and passed on through generations. Nowadays, in a reflection of modern society, watchmaking represents a fusion of functional and aesthetic aspects. In the past decade in particular, the fast pace of modern life is mirrored in key developments in the industry. Innovations in the types of materials used in watchmaking have been at the forefront of new durable models capable of withstanding magnetic forces and deep-sea dives. Collections have also strived to meet the needs of busy travellers, as the world becomes a smaller place and a flurry of multiple time zone pieces utilise sophisticated mechanisms to track time and the movements of the stars. Grand complications have also continued to take centre stage as a new type of luxury clientele seeks out intricate pieces that are testament to the triumphs of horology. The artistry in watchmaking has also come full circle, marking a return to the painstaking craft of beautifully detailed timepieces where skills such as enamelling and miniature painting are showcased. The decade has also seen the establishment of the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie in 2005 to promote fine watchmaking around the globe. All of these developments during the last decade have served to ensure not only the continuation of a proud watchmaking legacy but offer a wealth of extraordinary timepieces to collect.

IWC Schaffhausen Portuguese SidĂŠrale ScafusiA

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IWC Schaffhausen Portuguese Sidérale Scafusia

This stunning timepiece took the maison 10 years to craft in a painstaking process that combined extraordinary artistry with mechanical innovation. One of the most complicated watches ever made by the Swiss firm, it features a patented constant-force tourbillon as well as individually calculated astronomical displays. The dial also displays sidereal time, a system used by astronomers to track the night sky and train their telescopes on a given star. On the reverse of the dial is an astrolabe to show the night sky at the co-ordinates specified by the wearer. In this extraordinary feature, more than 500 stars and constellations can be viewed. As an enormous amount of time and effort is required to craft each watch, they are made on special request. Only a few of the timepieces, in 18-carat rose or white gold, are made each year. 2

On the reverse of the dial is an astrolabe to show the night sky at the co-ordinates specified by the wearer. In this extraordinary feature, more than 500 stars and constellations can be viewed

1 & 2 IWC Schaffhausen Portuguese Sidérale Scafusia 3 Blancpain Bathyscaphe

Blancpain Bathyscaphe

In 1953, one of the world’s most innovative diving watches was created, the Fifty Fathoms by Blancpain. In tribute to that landmark achievement, the Swiss watchmaker unveiled a contemporary take on the original design in 2013 with the Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe. In versions for men and women, the innovative update made use of the very latest industry advancements with the inclusion of a nonmagnetic silicon balance-spring to improve timekeeping accuracy. Originally inspired by the underwater explorations of Swiss adventurer Jacques Piccard, various elements of the modern interpretations draw on the original editions. Hands boast the traditional look

of the vintage watches and the date appears through a dedicated aperture, while the luminescent dot on the bezel ensures diving times can always be seen. Each of the mechanical self-winding movements beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and the models are, of course, water-resistant to 30 bar, equivalent to around 300 metres. It is fitted with a triple-loop NATO strap first introduced in the 1960s when the British Ministry of Defence was looking for a sturdy strap to equip its military watches. The overall look and feel of the watch is one of a sleek, classic design fully equipped to meet the demands of the most adventurous wearer.

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Join us for a magical experience at great heights. Savour the freshest cuisine at ICHO Contemporary Japanese restaurant on the 49th floor; embrace an authentic teppanyaki experience at ICHO Teppanyaki restaurant on the 50th floor; or enjoy the drinks and the views at the ICHO Bar on the 51st floor.

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WHERE TO BUY BLANCPAIN

The Dubai Mall 04 3398304 or visit rivoli.com IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

The Dubai Mall 04 3398111 or visit iwc.om

A. LANGE & SÖHNE The Dubai Mall 04 3253923 or visit lange-soehne.com VACHERON CONSTANTIN

Mall of the Emirates 04 2221222 or visit

vacheron-constantin.com

A. Lange & Söhne Since its origins in 1845, the Dresden watchmaker has developed more than 40 manufacture calibres with successes including landmark timekeeping instruments such as the Lange 1, which featured the first outsize date in a wristwatch. Building on that success and tailoring the innovations to this region, the Lange 1 Time Zone added Dubai and Riyadh to the city ring on the dial. This means the wearer is able to track time in the Middle East no matter their current international location, as the dial indicates the time both at home and at a second time zone with a single glance. A

white gold version in 2012 added a further exclusive touch with luminous hands and appliqués in rhodium-plated gold. The watch also features a rotating ring with the names of 24 cities to mark the world’s time zones. The watchmaker’s hallmarks are also present in abundance with an in-house handcrafted movement, outsize display and hand-finished three-quarter plate honed from untreated German silver. Offering the perfect balance between stunning design and pioneering mechanical function, this watch easily keeps pace with the international travel set.

4 A. Lange & Söhne boutique in The Dubai Mall 5 Lange 1 Time Zone 6 A. Lange & Söhne novelties, SIHH 7 Vacheron Malte

Vacheron Constantin

Boasting an illustrious history, Swiss watchmaker Vacheron Constantin was founded in 1755 and since then has been responsible for a host of industry firsts. Among the highlights in the past decade in particular, 2012 saw an important milestone. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of its tonneau-shaped Malte Collection, the maison revisited the design with a new sleek interpretation across four new models. The original style, released in 1912, moved away from the rounded shape of the company’s trademark pocket watches. In the avant-garde spirit of the era, Vacheron Constantin was one of the first to adopt the tonneau or barrel-shaped case. Bringing the style up to date, the Malte collection was first introduced in 2000; 2012 brought with it an opportunity to mark the 100 th anniversary and redesign a classic.

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Experience Mak ing waves

Dubai enjoys a coastal location where pristine beaches are lapped by the clear blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. The emirate is a veritable playground for watersports enthusiasts and among the unforgettable aquatic activities on offer is scuba diving. Al Boom are specialists in the sport and their experts are on hand to ensure an unforgettable encounter. Contact: 04 3422993

AL BOOM DIVING

Ship to shore Dubai has emerged as one of the most exciting destinations on the planet. Concierge presents an indispensable itinerary to making the most of the city

From humble beginnings as a pearl diving village to the bustling metropolis it is today, Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s incredible trajectory has seen it spectacularly transformed. Along the way, the emirate has taken bold steps to welcome visitors from all corners of the world where a series of unsurpassed attractions and activities await the millions who come each year to take advantage of the glorious sunshine and luxury living. With so much on offer, it can be hard to prioritise what to see and do first, but a number of Dubai experiences are an essential part of any visit to this sensational city.

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DUBAI CREEK

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Dubai Creek

Dubai might be known as a modern metropolis, but the city’s roots trace back to Khor Dubai (Dubai Creek), a bustling waterway in the original city lined with traditional cargo boats known as dhows. “Trading was how Dubai developed into the cosmopolitan city it is today and also accounts for Dubai’s unique architecture with influences from India and Africa. The creek is the core of the city and its history,” explains Dubai Municipality’s Director of Architectural Heritage Department, Rashad Mohammed Bukhash, who is leading efforts to secure Khor Dubai’s listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, such is its historical significance. “The creek was the life of Dubai, where people made a living from fishing, pearl diving and trade,” adds Bukhash. Today, visitors can stroll along its banks or cross from one side to the other by abra water taxi for a sense of times past.

1 Dubai Creek 2 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

“Old Dubai is a precious jewel nestled in a fast-paced, ever-changing city where Dubai’s true heart beats”

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood One of the city’s oldest quarters, the space was originally known as Bastakiya after the traders who first set up business here from the Bastak area of Iran. Located on the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek, the space dates back to the 1890s when it was mainly inhabited by pearl divers. The neighbourhood, known for its skyline of traditional wind tower architecture, has been well-preserved, dotted with many historical buildings of interest. They include Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai, dating back to the 1780s; Bait Al Wakeel, the first office building in Dubai; Dubai Museum; and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. The old quarter is also teeming with art galleries, quirky cafés and restaurants. “Old Dubai is a precious jewel nestled in a fast-paced, ever-changing city where Dubai’s true heart beats,” says freelance Dubai tour planner, Mary Samways. “It provides visitors with true insight into how Dubai first emerged as a small fishing village on a creek.”

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D UB AI AT T RA CT I ON S / E XP E R IE NCE

Burj Khalifa

Standing majestically in the Downtown area of Dubai is the city’s world-renowned landmark, Burj Khalifa. Reaching 828 metres into the sky, this tower holds a number of world records including the tallest building, tallest free-standing structure, highest number of stories at 160 and the highest outdoor observation deck – At the Top – on level 124. “At the Top is not only a must-see attraction for tourists but also popular among UAE residents. The one-of-a-kind attraction offers unparalleled views across the city which inspires visitors to return time and time again,” says Ahmad Al Falasi, executive director – Property Management, Emaar Properties PJSC.

The Dubai Mall It’s not only the biggest shopping centre in the world, but a fashion, leisure and entertainment hub like no other. Shopaholics are spoilt for choice with more than 1,200 outlets as well as niche retail areas including high-end precinct Fashion Avenue, Level Shoe District, The Souk plus The Village with its dedicated Denim District. Family entertainment is also top of the agenda with Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo a mall focal point.

3 Burj Khalifa view 4 Desert safari

Desert safari No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari experience. In fact, it’s a rite of passage if you are to claim yourself a true seasoned traveller to the emirate. Visitors can jump aboard a four-wheel-drive vehicle, escape the bright lights of the city and experience the endless dunes and stunning desertscape of real Arabia. “Dubai might be a modern

city with amazing manmade landmarks and entertainments galore, but there is one activity that has – and always will be – in the top three destination must-dos,” says Shoukath Ali, general manager, Arabian Expedition. “This timeless experience includes a thrilling dune drive into some of the most beautiful landscape in the world and a genuine Bedu-style barbecue dinner under the stars.”

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EXPE R IENCE/DUB A I ATTRA CTIO NS

UPCOMING AT T R A C T I O N S

MOHAMMED BIN RASHID

CITY: One of the emirate’s most ambitious developments to date, this ‘city within a city’ will feature a Universal Studios theme park, another megamall and 100 hotels when it is completed in 2022. AL HABTOOR CITY:

Highlights will include the Middle East’s first standalone theatre, the world’s first Bentley Café, a permanent water-themed attraction, a classical French-style landscaped garden and three five-star hotels when it opens in 2016. DUBAI SAFARI: Set to open this year, this 120-hectare safari park will boast a zoo, butterfly park, botanical garden and golf course. IMG WORLDS OF ADVENTURE: A theme

park featuring the Marvel Universe, the Cartoon Network Zone and several additional entertainment zones, located in Dubailand.

BLUEWATERS ISLAND:

A 210-metre Dubai Eye Ferris wheel, inspired by the UK capital’s London Eye, will be the focal point of this island project. DUBAI OPERA HOUSE:

Ski Dubai Whether you’re a ski enthusiast or a visitor keen to engage in one of the quirkiest activities when surrounded by desert, a trip to Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates is a must. This indoor snow park, the largest in the world, is a one-of-a-kind attraction where you can ski, snow board, toboggan, build a snowman or play in the snow in the dedicated snowballthrowing gallery. All equipment and clothing is provided. One of Ski Dubai’s best-loved attractions is the Snow Penguin colony that performs a daily ‘March of the Penguins’ show. There’s also a Peng-Friend Encounter allowing visitors to meet, train and play with the penguins. “I can’t think of anything better to experience than skiing in the desert in subzero temperatures at Ski Dubai.

an aquarium and waterpark among its attractions. The destination’s Dolphin Bay is also famed for its swim-with-dolphins experience. “Since Atlantis opened, we’ve been amazing guests with innovative experiences, from the Lost Chambers Aquarium to the Aquaventure Waterpark,” says Atlantis president and managing director Serge Zaalof.

5 Ski Dubai 6 Palm Jumeirah

Shaped like a traditional sailing vessel, this iconic building will feature a theatre with 2,000 seats. MADINAT JUMEIRAH

The established Arabianthemed Madinat Jumeirah development is being expanded to include another five-star property, a villa complex, restaurants and retail outlets.

Palm Jumeirah Often referred to as the eighth wonder, Palm Jumeirah is the world’s largest manmade island. It is home to some of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels, restaurants and entertainment destinations. Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, with its bright pink façade and one-of-a-kind architecture, is an undoubted highlight here and offers a host of activities under one roof with

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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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Footprints in the sand Inspired by the heritage of Bedouin living, Concierge heads into the dunes for an Arabian adventure with Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

P HOT O E S S A Y/ DIS COVE R

Beyond the UAE's bustling cities lies a beautiful sandy landscape that's worth exploring. A number of luxury resorts offer exclusive desert experiences in fivestar comfort. At Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa â&#x20AC;&#x201C; situated just 50 minutes from Dubai and 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi by car â&#x20AC;&#x201C; guests reside in private Bedouin-inspired villas with infinity pools and deck areas that boast uninterrupted views of the majestic dunes and where, if lucky, guests can glimpse the roaming wildlife

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The Arabian oryx is a medium-sized antelope with long, straight horns and a tufted tail. Native to desert and steppe areas of the Arabian Peninsula, a safari drive through the sands affords a rare opportunity to see the endangered animal. A trip through Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve which surrounds the resort, is also a chance to spot gazelle and other wildlife from the safety of a four-by-four vehicle and stop to explore the Ghaf trees, shrubbery and other plants that bring life to the local habitat. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa employs rangers from across the globe who are familiar with the most picturesque spots and are adept at spotting animals from afar

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From sunrise horse rides to sunset camel trekking, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an abundance of ways in which to explore the desert. Try your hand at the noble art of archery or take a trip to the falconry centre where carers will introduce you to desert eagle owls and tawny eagles; both native to the UAE. Finish the day in style with an intimate candlelit picnic as the sun goes down in the privacy of the dunes; a perfect end to your desert journey

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CREDITS

Daytime look: Slavko wears Shirt: Thom Browne Trousers: Slowear Incotex Shoes: Tod's Watch: A. Lange & Söhne Sunglasses: Rayban Melissa wears Dress: Diane von Fürstenberg Shoes: Mystique Jewellery: Bulgari Bag: Bulgari Nighttime look: Slavko wears Shirt: Slowear Glanshirt Trousers: Giorgio Armani Belt: Giorgio Armani Melissa wears Dress: Oscar de la Renta Watch: Bulgari Earrings: Mawi Photographer: Adham Sneeh Stylist: Sarah Jimaa Hair and makeup: Ania, MMG Models Models: MMG Models Location: Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, 04 8329900 al-maha.com

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The gold standard Explore Dubai in style with a choice of amazing VIP visitor experiences WORDS BY

FANCY YACHTS

CATHERINE LANGLEY

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V I P/ E XP E R IE NCE

Dubai has long been considered an impressive visitor destination, not least because of its reputation for doing everything bigger and faster than anywhere else in the world. It might sound like a generous description, but this is after all the city that brought us the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest shopping mall, tallest tower and highest fountain, all created in the last decade. Aside from architectural wonders and an impeccable standard of service, the emirate has also become famous for its luxurious visitor experiences that take extravagance to a whole new level. From chartering a super-yacht for a tour of the Arabian Gulf to a secluded desert excursion complete with private chefs on hand to barbecue a gourmet evening meal, Concierge explores deluxe Dubai.

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Hire a personal shopper

Visitors with a taste for retail therapy are in their element in Dubai because every big-name brand, from Prada to Pucci, has a presence here. For those who don’t fancy navigating the 13-million square feet of the city’s shopping mecca, The Dubai Mall, there is the option to enlist a personal shopper and stylist through concierge service, Fame Lifestyle Management. Their VIP package includes a styling consultation with an expert team who visit preferred stores to source items. Of course, there is the option to shop in person, in which case a chauffer-driven limousine whisks clients to Dubai’s malls in a package that includes a private shopping experience, either after hours or in a VIP room. Price: On request / Contact: famelifestyleme.com

Visitors with a taste for retail therapy are in their element in Dubai because every big-name brand, from Prada to Pucci, has a presence 1

1 & 2 Fame Lifestyle Management shopping experience 3 Eden Yachting

Take a VIP cruise The waters of the Arabian Gulf are excellent for luxury yachting. Dubai’s marinas are full of state-of-the-art powerboats and superyachts, built for extended cruising. Visitors can charter a yacht and crew for a few hours, days or weeks. Eden Yachting offers bespoke packages and a range of boats, in sizes from 50 feet to 50 metres, that come with a private chef and a host of extras. Itineraries can be tailored with charters from three hours to weeks at a time. Those opting for a three-hour trip can journey around Palm Jumeirah and pause for refreshments at One&Only The Palm, which has its own marina. For longer trips, Abu Dhabi is just a half a day’s sail away. Price: From AED3,300 for 50-foot yacht for three hours 3

Contact: edenyachting.com

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See the city by helicopter Dubai is famous for its spectacular landscape and a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits on HeliDubai’s VIP Scenic Tour. This breathtaking excursion not only affords a remarkable view of this amazing city, but there’s the chance to follow in the footsteps of royalty and celebrities by taking off and landing at Burj Al Arab’s world-famous helipad. Of course, in true Dubai style, the VIP treatment begins before you’re airborne on one of HeliDubai’s

luxurious Agusta 109 E Power copters as this exclusive service includes luxury limousine transfers. The tours last from 20 minutes upwards and routes can be customised to take in preferred sights. For the ultimate aerial view, glide over Palm Jumeirah before heading towards Downtown Dubai to see the astonishing Burj Khalifa emerge on the skyline.

Price: From AED13,000 for a 20-minute flight Contact: helidubai.com

4 & 5 HeliDubai 6 & 7 Platinum Heritage

Ride like royalty in the desert Experiencing a desert safari is a Dubai essential and to see the dunes in style, look no further than Platinum Heritage. Transporting guests in Mercedes G-Wagons through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, this is a rare privilege indeed as the reserve is the desert retreat of the royal family. An expert guide takes guests to the best areas to see wildlife including gazelles and Arabian oryx, before visiting scenic spots for sunset. Once the sun goes down, it’s off to the heritage camp for a six-course Arabic meal at a secluded private set-up nestled inside the exclusive grounds of the royal retreat.

Price: Adults from AED1,500, children AED1,250 Contact: platinum-heritage.com

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Discover Inner beaut y

Dubai is known the world over for its remarkable vistas and the city offers rich rewards for those who explore a little further. Jumeirah Mosque is a stunning sight where stepping inside offers even more to see with intricately carved woodwork adorning the interior and Arabesque patterns in blue and gold on painted ceilings and woven carpets. A visit offers a rich insight into the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistry, architecture and faith.

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Reaching for the sky Dubai’s unstoppable pace of change is shaping a formidable city of the future

In much the same way as the world’s greatest cities have been built, the blueprint for Dubai’s development has been one of rapid change. Clusters of gleaming towers reach towards the sky to dominate a landscape that was once defined by great swathes of sand. The story of Dubai’s rise from the desert is one of ambition and innovation, of talents from all corners of the globe coming together to create a truly distinctive metropolis that is filled with modern marvels. A host of world firsts sit alongside record-breaking structures and manmade islands as the city’s transformation continues. As Dubai journeys forward, a close connection to the past is an important element of its evolution as architects and designers strive to retain touches from local culture and traditions. Over the course of the last decade, the city’s pace of change has intensified. Exciting projects have affirmed Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s most dynamic destinations, from a state-of-the-art transportation system to the world’s tallest building, dancing fountain and the stunning architectural achievements embodied at Dubai Marina, progression has been swift. Looking to the future, Dubai Expo 2020 promises still more change with new structures, city spaces and projects planned to once again alter the fabric of the city. As Concierge marks its milestone 10th anniversary, we look back over the fast pace of change during the past decade in Dubai.

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DUBAI SKYLINE

D E C A D E I N D UBA I / E XP E R IE NCE

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Towering glory The jewel in Dubai’s crown is undoubtedly Burj Khalifa and the world’s tallest building is now an integral part of the city’s skyline. It is such an established sight, that it’s hard to imagine any view of Dubai that doesn’t include the sleek structure. Yet a little over five years ago, the tower wasn’t yet complete. Travel back 10 years and the distinctive silhouette that draws millions of visitors each year was still to be built. Chicago architectural practice Skidmore Owings & Merrill

(SOM) won the competition to design a new landmark for Dubai. “There was always a strong appreciation of the magnitude and complexity of what we were endeavouring to design,” says Erich Tomich, who led the Dubai team from drawing board to delivery as SOM’s project director. Construction began in 2005 on the striking tower, which now stands at 828 metres tall. A central consideration was to ensure the building could withstand winds sweeping in from the Arabian Gulf and to achieve this, it

1 Burj Khalifa today 2 Burj Khalifa under construction in 2007 3 Construction on Burj Khalifa in 2005

was anchored through a unique triple-lobed footprint based on an interpretation of the hymenocallis desert flower. In a further reference to the region, an Islamic design pattern is woven throughout the building. Tomich continues to lecture on his involvement in the build, which lasted six years. “I saw the entire project unfold from start to finish, which was highly rewarding and every day I reminded the team that this was a special project and an experience to be remembered.” 3

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D E C A D E I N D UBA I / E XP E R IE NCE

A new wave Elevated from the depths of the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah is a beautiful island that symbolises Dubai’s commitment to creating the extraordinary. Palm Jumeirah has set the benchmark for inspired design. Comprising a two-kilometre-long trunk, 17 fronds and surrounding crescent, work on the project began in 2001. To create the island, 94 million cubic metres of sand was poured onto the seabed using specialist machinery followed by seven million tonnes of rock. The next stage involved a technique known as ‘rainbowing’ as sand to cement the foundations was sprayed over the surface of the rising island. An incredible example of

marine engineering, one important aspect at the original planning stage was a commitment to achieving harmony with the natural surroundings. Shaped to look like a giant floating palm tree when viewed from above, elegant fronds reach out into the waters in a design that has encouraged the creation of a natural reef. Schools of rays have been spotted in the waters lapping the fronds while the island itself is home to an array of birds and lush green plant life. By the end of 2006, 4,000 luxury villas and apartments were ready and the manmade archipelago’s pristine beaches and lush green landscapes are now home to some of the world’s most exclusive hotels, resorts and restaurants.

4 Palm Jumeirah 5 & 6 Downtown Dubai

Palm Jumeirah is a beautiful island that symbolises Dubai’s commitment to creating the extraordinary Heading downtown

Visitors to Downtown Dubai are greeted by a dreamlike urban landscape like no other. The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest retail space, attracts millions each year. Opened in 2008, this mega-project was built in a joint venture by Dutco Balfour Beatty, Al Ghandi/CCC and Turner Construction for Emaar Properties. Stepping outside, the mall opens onto The Dubai Fountain. This is the world’s largest dancing fountain, surpassing even the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, whose creators WET also helped bring The Dubai Fountain to life. Testing began in February 2009 and the fountain was officially inaugurated the same year. Streams of water are sent 500 feet into the air during daily performances set to a selection of stirring soundtracks. The entire fountain sits above a network of tunnels and connected equipment rooms creating several hundred square metres of serviceable space below the 30-acre lake. The fountain’s operations are manned by the main control room, located on the top floor of The Dubai Mall.

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EXPE R IENCE/DECA DE IN DU B A I

Quay to the city

Dubai Marina is not only an incredible feat of architectural design, but in itself, is a wonderful locale where a true sense of the city can be felt. Visitors flock here to experience the café culture and take in the futuristic vistas. The marina’s striking skyscrapers are a testament to innovative design. The newest addition is the striking Cayan Tower, which twists 90 degrees towards the sky and is one of the most photographed buildings in the area. The entire marina project dates back to 1997 when Emaar chairman Mohamed Alabbar had a vision for an expansive waterfront

“This fine balance between the region’s rich tradition and its newly emerging modernity resonates with the community”

9 Aerial photograph of Dubai Marina basin before construction began, courtesy of HOK 10 Cayan Tower 11 Dubai Marina today 12 Construction of the first buildings in Dubai Marina, courtesy of HOK

development. In 1998, Canadian architectural and design firm HOK won a design competition to prepare the master plan for the Dubai Marina project as well as phase one of the development, consisting of the first six high-rise residential towers. The HOK team of master planners, landscape architects, interior designers and graphic designers, set to work designing a central marina excavated from the desert sands with entrances to the Gulf at each end of the waterway. To ensure environmental quality, the dual entrances and continuous, curving quay wall were designed to provide a naturally flowing marina.

The project took five years from the master planning stage, which started in 1998, to the occupancy of the first six towers in 2003. “As an inspiration for the design, waterfront resort living became a core concept, providing continuous public access by incorporating bicycle paths, pedestrian pathways, water taxi stations and docking for yachts,” says Randa Tukan, global director of hospitality, HOK. Another important aspect of the marina’s design was that it included influences from the local area. Tukan says: “Contextual relevance is key to establishing a sense of place and an important ingredient in creating a community. The design respects and re-interprets traditional forms of Islamic architecture. This fine balance between the region’s rich tradition and its newly emerging modernity resonates with the community.” Tukan adds: “It was an incredible experience. Designers always imagine their work to be iconic, intelligent and memorable. True artistry comes with the ability to make this vision a reality.”

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Voyage of discovery A fascination with Arabian tribal societies prompted Wilfred Thesiger – arguably the greatest traveller of the 20th century – to journey into the remote desert Words by

Samia Qaiyum

Legendary British explorer Wilfred Thesiger lived his entire life as an outsider, rejecting the modern world in favour of the tribespeople of Africa and Arabia. Regarded as one of the last in a breed of traditional explorers, Thesiger was a man who trekked across post-war Abyssinia, lived among the Turkana and Samburu people of Kenya, travelled with the Bakhtiari nomads in Iran and explored inner Afghanistan. All these journeys – and many more besides – were made either on foot or by camel, horse or mule. Yet none gave him as much joy as the two epic journeys he made between 1945 and 1950 across Arabia’s Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert in the world. These expeditions came about as a result of a chance encounter over dinner with the head of the Middle East Anti-Locust Unit, looking to employ someone to investigate locust sites in the desert. Thesiger, who had been seeking an opportunity to fulfil his ultimate ambition of travelling through the most forbiddingly desolate area of Arabia, accepted the job before the meal was over. The journey he embarked upon is now legend and has seen others follow in his bold footsteps. The words and images charting the epic feat that Thesiger left behind are not only testament to the enduring spirit of exploration but the captivating power of some of the UAE’s most majestic landscapes.

GETTY IMAGES

gr e at ex pl ore rs / DIS COVE R

Journey of a lifetime Outwardly in search of the breeding grounds of predatory locusts, Thesiger made his first crossing of the Empty Quarter between 1946 and 1947. He travelled by camel with a small group of Bedouin, taking a circular route of some 2,414 kilometres through the eastern part of the desert from Salalah to Mughshin, Khaba and back to Boi. The journey crossed into the UAE from Oman to Liwa and Abu Dhabi. Noteworthy is the fact that he was not the first foreigner to venture across these silent sands. However, others before him had travelled as well-supplied westerners and only skirted the region. Thesiger, in contrast, explored it thoroughly, dressed in the same garb as the Arab tribesmen with whom he rode and restricted himself to their daily ration of a pint of water and handful of dates. Life amid the harsh Arabian landscape was monastic at best, yet it was here that the great wanderer found near-spiritual contentment. “In the desert,” he wrote, “I found a freedom unattainable in civilisation; a life unhampered by possessions.” His second expedition took place in 1948, traversing the western part of the desert from Manwakh to Sulaiyil, Laila and Abu Dhabi on the Gulf. Braving continual hunger and thirst, dunes

1 Wilfred Thesiger July 2002, Woodcote Grove Nursing Home, United Kingdom 2 Adrian Hayes 3 & 4 Bedouin in the desert

“In the desert, I found a freedom unattainable in civilisation; a life unhampered by possessions”

up to 161 kilometres long and 1,000 feet high and death threats from rival tribes, Thesiger became the first European to set eyes on the notorious quicksands known as Umm al Samim bordering Oman. The crossing of the Empty Quarter is a journey now remembered as the last great expedition across Arabia and was chronicled by Thesiger in his precise yet emotionally charged book, Arabian Sands. Widely regarded as a classic of travel literature, it is illustrated with the explorer’s haunting black and white images. By documenting his journeys in photographs, maps, diaries and letters

to his family, Thesiger recounted invaluable tales of a region that has forever been transformed by the discovery of oil beneath its sands and helped create an imperishable record of vanishing tribal societies. While the impact of his journeys and subsequent book is undeniable, Thesiger was also overwhelmed with guilt over his role in exposing a previously hidden land and bringing the modern world to it. Accounts indicate that many of his Bedouin companions secured jobs as guides with oil companies and gave up their traditional way of life, while the maps he made enabled others to follow him.

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GRE A T E X PL ORE RS / DIS COVE R

In his shoes

The man, the myth, the legend

Several years after Thesiger’s death in 2003 at the age of 93, many re-enactments of his journeys through the Empty Quarter have taken place as a tribute. Adventurer Adrian Hayes’ Footsteps of Thesiger expedition in 2011 is one well-known example. With the help of Bedouin companions, the Dubai-based British explorer and adventurer embarked on a 44-day, 1,609-kilometre expedition in the same vein as Thesiger’s, donning traditional robes and eschewing modern equipment wherever possible. “With Thesiger an iconic figure in the Arabian Gulf, we were accorded huge respect from Bedouin villagers, some of whom met and rode with him in the 1940s. We struggled through some of the harshest landscape on earth, a terrain that is as beautiful as it is brutal and we learned the harsh realities of attempting an authentic re-enacted expedition 65 years after his own,” says Hayes of the experience. Thesiger had journeyed with many Bedouin tribesmen during his travels, but Hayes is referring to his two constant companions, Salim bin Kabina and Salim bin Ghubaisha of the Rashid tribe. Now in his 80s, bin Ghabaisha remembers Thesiger fondly. “He was loyal, generous and afraid of nothing. He was a wonderful man to travel with.”

Those who knew Thesiger describe him as a man of many contradictions. In the desert, he dressed as his Arab acquaintances did, but reverted to sporting three-piece suits and bowler hats when in London. The private and reserved gentleman traveller never married, feeling most at home with the nomadic peoples with whom he travelled. Architect and author Alexander Maitland was a close friend of Thesiger and is the man behind his authorised biography titled Wilfred Thesiger: The Life of the Great Explorer. “He had a tremendous presence, although he was very gently spoken and didn’t have a particularly strong handshake. In fact, everything about him was rather genteel; almost diffident in a way. “He came to the desert and fell in love with the people, with the timelessness connected with their world, the kindness and generosity; all values Wilfred attached great importance to and I think the feeling was mutual. Among other things they felt he really understood, or at least as far as it is possible for a European to understand, what it means to be a Bedu.” Maitland adds: “K nowing him was a wonderful experience and it was a wonderful friendship. I feel genuinely privileged to have known him.”

5 & 6 Images from the book Footsteps of Thesiger by Wouter Kingma

LIFE THROUGH A LENS Thesiger’s most enduring legacy – his photography collection – was bequeathed to the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, England and later catalogued and preserved thanks to a grant from the late President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Lauded for their skilful composition and dramatic use of light, many of the images can now be seen at: • Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain: The permanent exhibition at this historic landmark can be viewed alongside a documentary film on Thesiger’s life and his two Bedouin companions Salim bin Kabina and Salim bin Ghabaisha in the fort’s visual room. • Creekside, Dubai: With a focus on culture, design and heritage, this recently opened contemporary cultural space houses a permanent exhibition depicting photographs taken by Thesiger around the creek, showing the city’s progression through time.

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A simpler time Despite the harsh conditions, small populations have been making the UAE desert their home for thousands of years WORDS BY

CHARLOT T E VAN DE N BROUCQ UE

With scorching summer temperatures of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit and sand dunes stretching in every direction as far as the eye could see, it’s hard to believe that people have lived in UAE desert since the third millennium BCE. Before the now-cosmopolitan cities of the seven emirates emerged in the middle of the last century, the wild landscape offered few resources to its inhabitants. The adjacent Arabian Gulf with its fish supplies, small herds of gazelle indigenous to this region, the freshwater springs of Jebel Hafeet – the UAE’s tallest mountain – and a number of small oases scattered throughout the desert were all they had to go on. It was evidently enough, though, to sustain a resilient nomadic population who managed to farm dates and vegetables as well as raise animals on the arid land. For hundreds of years the native Bani Yas tribe navigated its way through this harsh environment and created an organised and successful

population with over 20 subsections. Known as Bedouin, meaning ‘desert dwellers’, the tribe was originally based at Liwa Oasis 150 kilometres from the city of Abu Dhabi. Matar Al-Mansoori’s ancestors have been living as Bedouin in this area for centuries and he too grew up in this fascinating culture. Now the CEO of Al Badeyah Tourism, his aim is to keep the UAE’s heritage, culture and traditions alive and invite others to experience them at an authentic desert safari camp in Abu Dhabi emirate. “I grew up in a typical Bedouin community that remains close to traditional ways of life where people cannot live without their heritage” he reveals. While Al-Mansoori spent term time attending school away from

the community he spent the weekends and holidays back in the camp. “I used to spend my summer vacation in Liwa Oasis driving my parents to visit our farm in the desert to collect daily camel milk for our house. In the morning I used to drive to my parents’ oasis to clean and water the palm trees and to gather dates in the summer.” Speaking of the Bedouin life that his ancestors would have known, he says: “Life was hard in the past as it was difficult to grow crops, but they were able to plant palm trees, grasses and some fruits in specific places. Diet consisted mainly of fresh fish, dry fish, camel, goat and sheep meat, rabbits and birds but they were sometimes able to supplement this with

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HI S T ORY/ DIS COVE R

bread, rice and other foods that were brought by sea traders from neighbouring countries.” Accommodation was simple and consisted of palm-frond barasti settlements made of mud, leaves and goat hair. In the unbearable heat of the summer the community retreated under the shade of palms growing around the oases to keep cool. Legend has it that while on a hunting trip a group of Bedouin from the Bani Yas tribe living at Liwa Oasis in the heart of the desert stalked a deer all the way to the shoreline. What they found here was to change the course of history and create the beginning of life as we know it in the UAE today. The area was made up of many islands with huge mangroves and a plentiful supply of fresh water. In honour of the legend that brought them to this place it was named Abu Dhabi, which translates as ‘father of the deer’. Slowly but surely, more and more members of the Bani Yas tribe began to move here, including the Al Nahyan family, which still rules Abu Dhabi today. While Bedouin life might not be as difficult in areas as it once was, Al-Mansoori reveals: “Those living in these communities today tend to strike a balance between their traditional way of life and modern conveniences. Generally speaking there has been a big change in the lifestyle of Bedouin over the last 41 years. Most now live a more comfortable life with modern luxuries such as mobile phones, 4x4s

3 4

1 Early Bedouin camp in Abu Dhabi 2 Nomadic Bedouin travel through the desert 3 Aerial desert scene 4 Early fishermen 5 Bedouin at the water well

MICHAEL AND RENEE HAMILTON-CLARK

In the unbearable heat of the summer the community retreated under the shade of palms growing around the oases to keep cool

and caravan houses in the desert complete with air conditioning and solar energy for lighting.” With easy access to food for animals available at nearby markets the way of life has certainly become less precarious but the old culture still remains. “In the morning Bedouin will check their palm tree farms, which are near to their houses and then spend their time in the afternoon in the desert looking after their camels and goats,” says Al-Mansoori. With modern life beckoning he adds: “Many former Bedouin now live in cities but they still maintain links to their history and heritage. Their children now go to schools, universities and work in the public and private sector, but they’re still proud to keep their traditional life which they inherited from their parents, grandparents and ancestors.”

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Taste Sig nat ure f ish

Nobu Matsuhisa is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most acclaimed chefs and his restaurant at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, enjoys a stellar reputation. Black Cod Yuzu Miso (pictured) is the chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature dish, created after he first came across the unusual fish in Alaska. The cod is grilled in a foil of savoury-sweet miso glaze for a finish that retains the distinctive buttery texture. Contact: 04 4262626

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AL MAHARA, BURJ AL ARAB

gl oba l fa re / T A S T E

At the table Dubai’s dining landscape has evolved over the course of the past decade to offer the finest food from all corners of the globe

In a reflection of the extraordinary elements that come together in Dubai, the dining scene is every bit as dynamic as the city itself. At the heart of the city’s gastronomy are inf luences from all over the globe. Emerging as a culinary contender to rival some of the world’s established food capitals, Dubai not only brings a touch of the unique to the table, but also some of the highest standards of service to be found anywhere in the world. Sensational décor and unusual backdrops lend a stunning setting for meals, which are crafted with genuine cooking f lair from the finest ingredients. Limited only by imagination, discerning diners can choose to enjoy a meal surrounded by the creatures of the ocean, sample dishes crafted by some of the world’s best-known chefs or enjoy vibrant plates with a true flavour of Arabia. “Dubai is a food lover’s paradise and over the past few years it has been visited by many chefs who have inspired the dining scene,” says chef Mussabbeh Al Kaabi of Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. “Following the arrival of Gordon Ramsay, Nobu Matsuhisa and Gary Rhodes, Dubai’s culinary scene has never really looked back. “Eating out has become a national pastime with the Michelin credentials to match. There is something to suit all tastes, from local f lavours celebrating the best of the emirates to Mexican street food, Creole cooking and Ottoman-style banquets,” says Al Kaabi. As a destination where the world comes to dine, Dubai serves something special. Concierge embarks on a culinary journey sampling the city’s finest dishes.

Beef carpaccio at Marco Pierre White Grill Among the additions to Dubai’s celebrity dining scene is this restaurant at Conrad Dubai. On the menu is a selection of classic British fare that includes fish and chips and Shepherd’s Pie. A beech oven grill is used to cook premium fish and meat options including Australian Kobe beef. A stand-out dish not be missed here is the sublime beef carpaccio starter seasoned with Maldon sea salt,

pink peppercorn and accompanied by a foie gras mousse. The meat comes with shaved fennel and a drizzle of honey truffle vinaigrette. Head chef Genny Lorenza says: “Pink peppercorn gives the dish a fruity fragrance while the foie gras adds richness to the thinly sliced beef. Each bite ends with a punch of peppercorn and earthy vinaigrette.” When: Daily, 7pm to midnight Where: Conrad Dubai / Contact: 04 4447444

A stand-out dish not be missed here is the sublime beef carpaccio starter seasoned with Maldon sea salt, pink peppercorn and accompanied by a foie gras mousse

Mixed grill at Al Nafoorah Among the exceptional dining options at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is Lebanese restaurant Al Nafoorah, which has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the best destinations for the cuisine in Dubai. Executive Oriental chef Mussabbeh Al Kaabi is at the helm and for Al Kaabi, Al Nafoorah’s mixed grill is a musttry. He says: “It’s a very famous Arabic dish and, if we go back a little bit in time, it was a favourite in the Ottoman Empire. The dish

is simple, made up of either lamb or chicken marinated with lemon juice, chilli, garlic and parsley for at least eight hours. The meat is then placed on metal skewers and cooked on a charcoal grill before tomato, onion and red chilli is added. The history is what makes this dish stand out.” When: Daily, noon to midnight. Where: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah Contact: 04 3198088

Nori Seaweed Salmon at Teatro Perfectly aligned to Dubai’s taste for the theatrical, Teatro is one of the city’s best-loved restaurants. The menu encompasses a wide selection of cuisines from sushi to melt-inthe-mouth premium cuts of steak. Among the variety on offer is the stand-out nori seaweed salmon, a fresh take on a salmon sushi dish, served with a vibrant wasabi potato purée and miso-ponzu glaze. The dish is an undoubted highlight on an already exciting menu. When: Daily, from 6 to 11.30pm. Where: Towers Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road Contact: 04 3122202

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Line-caught seabass at Al Mahara Burj Al Arab is synonymous with ultra-luxury and its restaurants are destinations in themselves. A combination of majestic setting and exceptional quality make for an unforgettable meal. Al Mahara, meaning ‘the oyster shell’ in Arabic, is the property’s seafood restaurant where tables are arranged around a stunning floor-to-ceiling aquarium. The award-winning team of chefs craft a menu of exquisite dishes and one of the stand-outs

is undoubtedly line-caught whole seabass in a sea-salt crust. The perfectly flavoured fish comes accompanied with Greek-style vegetables, a cucumber-and-dill salad and crushed Ratte potatoes with olive oil. The flavours are the ideal pairing for the ambience within the restaurant, which is a delight for all the senses. When: Lunch is served from 12:30 to 3pm. Dinner is served from 7pm to midnight. Where: Burj Al Arab / Contact: 04 3017600

Steak at Porterhouse Steaks & Grills This sophisticated space is one of the city’s finest venues to enjoy a succulent steak. Its location on idyllic isle Palm Jumeirah simply adds to the ambience of a venue where the food is first class. A spacious outdoor terrace affords the option to dine under the stars and take in the beautiful views. No trip to this restaurant would be complete without sampling its steak. The Porterhouse is an excellent cut, cooked to perfection. “It is considered special because it is located on Dubai’s unique manmade Palm Jumeirah island and is the premier long-fed beef in Australia, giving us meat that is delectably soft and f lavourful,” says Olivier Chaleil, executive chef. When: Daily, 7 to 11.30pm Where: Sofitel The Palm, Dubai / Contact: 04 4556677

Salam Dubai cake at Choix Patisserie and Restaurant Taking the patisserie concept to the Michelinstar level is French chef Pierre Gagnaire. Since opening earlier this year, Choix has become a must for the afternoon tea set. Pastries, eclairs, finger sandwiches and scones are all served with a choice of teas and coffees. A highlight is the Salam Dubai cake, dedicated to the city and boasting 12 layers of chocolate and crème with marzipan and a three-dimensional topping shaped like the skyline. The icing on the cake is a top layer of gold Arabic calligraphy that reads Salam Dubai. The decadent dessert is purchased whole and is an excellent sweet slice of Dubai. Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City When: Daily, from 7 until 11pm / Contact: 04 7011136

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A taste of tradition

among these is the tendency The development of Middle for Arabian hosts to serve Eastern people and culture more food than the average is a story that is also told diner could possibly eat. This through the evolution of its is also often true of expericulinary legacy. As societies ences at Arabic restaurants formed and traditions began, where visitors are likely to specific styles of preparing, find portions particularly cooking and sharing food From coffee to camel’s milk, the Arab generous and it stems from also emerged. From this world is known for its rich gastronomy a general belief that showermelting pot came a series of that is both vibrant and welcoming ing a guest with food is an important customs associimportant part of making ated with dining that have them feel welcome. Family come to define the Arabian meals in Arabic households are usually large-scale affairs, cultural experience. At the very heart of this notion, the particularly lunch, which has traditionally been the most Arab world is renowned for the hospitality of its people who important meal of the day in this region. On a Friday, the consider it a duty to extend the hand of welcome to stranIslamic day of rest, the whole family will usually gather gers. In countries such as the UAE, the level of courtesy around the table after noon prayers to share a meal of meat, and generosity shown towards a guest is considered a direct vegetables and salad. This will normally be accompanied reflection of the host’s character. It’s a tradition that dates by Arabic bread, dips, including hummous, moutabel and back to the days of the Bedouin, when it was not out of the other mezze dishes such as sambousek (pastry stuffed with ordinary for people to undertake great journeys across the meat and pine kernels) or kalmata olives and halloumi desert and throw themselves on the mercy of local tribes cheese. Historically, however, people of the Arabian Peninfor a meal and shelter on occasions when supplies ran dry. sula were limited to foods they could source and grow in Today, the nomadic way of life has largely died out, but the desert and relied heavily on a diet of dates, wheat, many of the customs and traditions that derive from those barley, rice and what little meat they could find or raise. times still carry weight in modern UAE society. Notable

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ARABIC COFFEE

L OCA L CUI S I N E / T A S T E

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The UAE is, of course, now known for its rich and varied dining scene with no end of gourmet restaurants offering cuisines from the far corners of the world. Within the category of Arabic food alone, there is a huge range of national cuisines to choose from, including Moroccan, Persian, Omani and, most popularly, Lebanese. There is also a specific category of food unique to this country, though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harder to find restaurants that serve Emirati dishes. In Dubai, visitors can book a table at Awtar restaurant at Grand Hyatt Dubai to try some local Arabic dishes.

The perfect blend A wonderful accompaniment to the nourishing cuisine of this region, Arabic coffee is a flavourful variant that originated in the Middle East long before coffee became the drink of choice in the west. Also known as khaleeji, the drink is revered in this part of the world as an important reminder of local traditions and times gone by. 2

1 Arabic sweets 2 Stuffed vine leaves, Radisson Royal Hotel, Dubai 3, 6 & 7 Mezlai, Emirates Palace 4 Traditional dates 5 Hummous

Within the category of Arabic food alone, there is a huge range of national cuisines to choose from, including Moroccan, Persian, Omani and, most popularly, Lebanese

Drinking coffee was popularised first in the Arab world, where warm conditions were ripe for cultivating beans. The social aspect of gathering to enjoy the drink soon made the activity central to community life. The first cultivation of coffee was in Yemen where it was given the Arabic name qahwa, from which the words coffee and cafĂŠ both derive. By 1414, the practice of drinking coffee had spread throughout the Middle East. A warming drink to comfort in cool night-time desert temperatures, Bedouin cooked coffee in copper pots on beds of coal in the sand over an open fire. Retaining much of the same method, ground beans are to this day boiled rather than filtered or percolated and served in small cups known as finjaan.

The distinctive taste comes from the addition of spices such as saffron and cardamom, which can give the drink a green hue. The Arabica beans, lighter in colour than American or European varieties, are lightly roasted and ground with cardamom before being boiled for around 15 to 20 minutes. Additional blends are infused with saffron, cloves or rose water to offer alternative flavours. Once boiled on the stove in a copper pot known as a kezveh, the coffee is transferred to a jug known as a dallah, which is often characterised by a long spout. Arabic coffee is rarely served with milk or sugar to allow the strength of flavour to come through. There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to Dubai to enjoy an authentic Arabic

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L OCA L CUI S I N E / T A S T E

coffee with a host of traditional cafés, souks and even shopping malls offering the chance to enjoy the delicious drink. Some of the city’s finest hotels provide a chic setting in which to relax with a delicious local khaleeji. Al Bayt at The Palace Downtown Dubai is a wonderful venue to taste some of the heavenly blends on offer and presents a palatial Arabian atmosphere with breathtaking panoramas of The Dubai Fountain.

Sweet success Local culinary traditions are every bit as important when it comes to dessert, a highlight at any feast and a chance to unwind with guests during what is arguably the most social part of a meal. If invited to share a meal at an Emirati home a selection of sweets will be served as both the conversation and freshly brewed Arabic coffee flows. The earliest dessert incarnations came from naturally available ingredients such as dried fruits, honeycomb or nuts. Therefore, Baklava is one of the most popular Arabic desserts. Boasting a rich aroma, the dessert is traditionally served with a small cup of

strong, black Arabic coffee perfumed with cardamom and unsweetened. Consisting of a nut filling, usually of pistachios, walnuts or almonds, layers of buttery dough encase the sweet centre. It is often scented with orange blossom or rose water to enhance the flavour. Legematt is another favourite sweet option among Emiratis. A deep-fried ball of pancake batter, it is rolled in sesame seeds to make a dumpling before it is fried and then drizzled with date syrup for a delicious finish. Umm Ali, or bread pudding, is one of the best-known desserts in the UAE. Umm Ali translates to mean ‘the queen of puddings’ and is a favourite among locals, particularly popular during Ramadan. With roots in Egypt, local variants

8 Arabic sweets and coffee 9 Dessert at the Palace Downtown Dubai

use ingredients more common in this area. This delicious version of bread pudding sees puff pastry combined with nuts, raisins, dates and topped with pistachios. For a more contemporary take on locally sourced sweets, products made from camel milk have increasingly gained popularity. Al Nassma farm in Dubai boasts around 2,500 camels providing milk for the hugely successful Camelicious firm. The company not only produces camel milk but also flavoured milk and cheese, ice-cream and chocolates. No matter which part of Arabic tradition is sampled, there is something to suit all tastes on a culinary exploration of this vibrant region.

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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

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.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Metro: Business Bay Map reference: D1 OASIS CENTRE

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

04 5114670

BUYING TIME 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

1&2. Bur Dubai Souk 3. Istana, BurJuman 4. The Dubai Mall 5. Alice + Olivia, spring/summer 2014 6. Chloé, The Dubai Mall

04 5154000

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

Timings: 10am to10pm weekdays,10am to midnight weekends. Metro: Business Bay Map reference: C1

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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

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

THE DUBAI MALL

04 3627500

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

DUBAI OUTLET MALL

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

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.

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

GALLERY 76

OPERA GALLERY

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

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

04 3444398

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri and Sat 11am to 9pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

GALLERY ETEMAD

04 3450900

04 3468649

Exhibits striking artwork that features in museums and international collections.

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

ART SAWA

04 3235052

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

04 3408660

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

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

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.

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

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

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

04 3406016

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

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

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

04 3790940

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 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.

THE THIRD LINE

04 3411367

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

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

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.

04 3470209

MEEM GALLERY

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

04 3477883

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

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

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

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

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 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

Founded in 2003, this Arabic gallery is located off Mankhool Road in Bur Dubai. to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

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

PRO ART GALLERY

04 3988331

CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY

04 4250400

04 3230909

1. Jumeirah Mosque 2. Pearl diving 3. Camel racing 4. Glass-blowing 5. Dubai Creek

TRAFFIC

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

XVA GALLERY

04 3535383

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

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

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T HE GUI D E / DIS COVE R

CITY TOURS

CREEK CRUISES

055 2217049

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

ART SCENE

CULTURE

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

Air ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter. City shuttle services from your hotel are available.

Timings: Flights depart from 10am to 4pm Guide price: City tour AED1,250 per person (25 minutes), private tours from AED3,180 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

04 3368406

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

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

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

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

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)

04 3536666

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

Map reference: B2

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 for an evening dhow cruise

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

04 3243000

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.

04 3511117

Land

AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE

04 3414777

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

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.

Water

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR 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

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 Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and The World islands.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED500 per hour ART MARINE

04 3388955

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

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

04 3994994

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

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

04 3993333

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

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

04 3511117

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

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

800 9090

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

Timings: Daily from 9am Guide price: AED50 for

silver, AED75 for gold DREAMDAYS

800 2080

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

Timings: Every Monday Guide price: AED295

04 2629993

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

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

DESERT RANGERS TOURS & ADVENTURE SPORTS

04 3572233

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

055 8838833

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available. LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

04 3344330/04 3357676

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

04 3764333/056 1718881

per person

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.

04 2573084

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. ORIENT TOURS

04 2828238

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

04 2999339

Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite. TRAVCO

04 3366643

1. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai 2. Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 3. Dubai Museum

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

02 4448866

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

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YACHT CHARTERS & FISHING TAKE TO THE SEAS AND EXPERIENCE DUBAI FROM THE UNIQUE VANTAGE POINT OF THE ARABIAN GULF

LUXURY PRIVATE CHARTER | DEEP SEA FISHING | SUNSET CRUISE

2953485 24 Tel: 04 04 2953486

RESERVATION

HOURS

_AL WASL CHARTERS_FP AD_14APR14.indd 1

Pick up & drop-off facility in Dubai from hotels

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

www.cruiseindubai.com

4/21/14 5:19 PM

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’seye view of the new 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

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

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

100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per

Shooting

adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

IFLYDUBAI

DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

lessons AED1,080

Skydiving

(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

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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Birdwatching NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 3380201

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

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 DOLPHIN BAY

04 4261030

For the ultimate aquatic experience that you'll never forget, meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. This is one of Dubai's most famous attractions.

Timings: Open 10am to sunset Guide price: Individual rate AED795 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

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.

SPLASHLAND

WATER WORLD

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.

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3369773

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

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

Timings: Shows Mon to Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children 04 4261040

Discover a maze of underwater halls and tunnels, with 65,000 marine animals swimming at the Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis, The Palm.

Waterparks AQUA PLAY

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

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

04 4260000

Ride the rapids and shoot down the fastest free-fall slide in the Middle East into a shark-filled lagoon. Located at the Atlantis, The Palm.

Timings: Daily from

10am to sunset Guide price: AED250 for adults, AED205 for children under 1.2 metres DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

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

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 ICELAND WATER PARK

800 WOWRAK (969725)

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

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB SEPT14.indd 113

Golf

THE LOST CHAMBERS

adults, AED70 for children aged three to 11

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

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for

04 3241222

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010101

(7,303 yards, par-72)

Dubai is awash with water sports to cool you down this summer 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 the 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.

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)

4. Helidubai 5. Dhow sailing in Dubai 6. Emirates Golf Club

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 3801234

(6,800 yards, par-71) The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes and Dubai Creek on at least four holes.

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

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

1,239 yards, par-27) Emirates Golf Club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament, but also offers everything from fine dining to bar bites available alongside topnotch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a spa.

Green fees: Majlis Course

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

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JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

(3,299 yards, par-36, nine holes)

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

04 8145555

This pretty nine-hole course features wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which roam the fairways.

04 8836555

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

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

minutes with unlimited shots

Guide price: Two-day PADI course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,750. Pleasure dives from AED400

Climbing

Fishing

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

Earth Course:

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?

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

04 3759999

(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 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.

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED100 for 30

04 3240000

THE WALL

ART MARINE

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

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

04 3065061

Timings: Daily 2 to 10pm Guide price: AED70

with an instructor

SET SAIL During the warmer 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.

Set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, this links-style course offers a challenging round.

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

04 3388955

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.

(7,538 yards, par-72, 18 holes)

HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 2054646

04 4251010

Archery

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED500 per hour

THE ELS CLUB

SPORTS

04 2394760

Timings: Call for timings Guide price: AED75 for one hour with an instructor

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes

Green fees: Daily AED895 for 18 holes

AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

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.

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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. 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

7. Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club 8. Ski Dubai 9. One&Only Spa, One&Only Royal Mirage 10. Desert safari

NO BOUNDARIES

050 2514988

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details 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

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Horseriding

Ice skating

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

AL NASR LEISURELAND

04 3618111

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

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

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

A British Horse Societyapproved riding and training centre for all abilities. Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing.

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)

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two

04 4485111

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

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

04 2096000

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

RACE DAY

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

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

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

04 3678744

Polo

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED115

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

04 3618111

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

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

Guide price: Call for details

Timings: Sun to Wed 3 to 10pm,

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

Thu to Sat 3pm to midnight Guide price: AED120

02 5629050

Mini golf 04 8099333

Call for season information

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

Sailing

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 per

hour for two people. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities

DESERT RANGERS

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB An indoor and outdoor shooting academy.

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

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

Skiing SKI DUBAI

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

04 3402408

Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve.

Motorsports

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

DRAG RACING

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

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

04 3941669

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

Timings: See website Guide price: From AED650 for two hours

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB SEPT14.indd 116

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.

HATTA FORT HOTEL

116

04 8836555

starts at AED1,500

050 4263424

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.

Timings: See website Guide price: Drive a

Timings: See website Guide price: Private tuition

Karting

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

Shooting

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.

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

04 2573084

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

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

Timings: Sun 10.30am

Guide price: Call for details

Guide price: AED2,000

YAS RACING SCHOOL

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

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

LUXURY RACING EXPERIENCE

Ferrari 458 Italia from AED790 for three laps.

11. Raffles Spa, Raffles Dubai 12. Jet skiing 13. Zabeel Park

050 5517280

SUMMERTIME MARINE

055 3714218 or www. luxuryracingexperience.com

DUBAI ICE RINK

DUSAIL

Timings: See website Guide price: AED1,500

3000 Yas Experience

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

DUBAI AUTODROME

riding from AED200

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

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

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

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 3371234

THE DESERT RANCH

04 8327171

FORMULA 1™

Guide price: AED300

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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

Every Sunday from September 7, Benihana hosts a sushi and teppanyaki night from AED289 per person. Begin with a starter buffet of assorted maki, sushi and salads followed by unlimited servings of beef, chicken, shrimp, vegetables and rice from the teppan table, completed with a selection of desserts. Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Lebanese Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse

AL GHURAIR RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

04 2933000 Deira

Shayan invites diners to sample seafood specialities from the south of Iran with a special menu for the current season. Liwan – International Shayan – Iranian Yasmin Lounge – Lounge Buzz Deli Cafe – Cafe

AL MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA

04 8329900 Desert

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

AL MANZIL HOTEL

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai For an alternative ladies' night, visit sports bar Nezesaussi Grill where girls receive a free AED120 meal when ordering drinks to the value of AED50. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar

AL MUROOJ ROTANA – DUBAI

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Pergolas takes diners on a culinary journey through Italy with its weekly Al Dente buffet night every Thursday from AED199 per person. Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Lebanese Pergolas – International

AL QASR, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI

Umm Suqeim

Palm Jumeirah

04 3668888

04 4260000

At Arboretum, themed nights are the name of the game. Expect roast dinner on Sunday, dishes from the grill on Tuesday, seafood on Thursday and options featuring Arabian spices on Friday.

Each Friday, contemporary Chinese restaurant Yuan hosts a brunch where guests can browse an exclusive new menu with over 40 dim sum options and enjoy traditional tea and soft drinks for AED188.

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

Asia Republic – Asian Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – International Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International N'Dulge – Nightclub Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian La Brasserie – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Edge – Beachside lounge Yuan – Chinese

AMWAJ ROTANA

04 4282000

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

ANANTARA DUBAI THE PALM RESORT & SPA

04 5678888

Palm Jumeirah The resort's newest eatery Bushman's Restaurant & Bar offers prime meat and fresh seafood cooked Australian style on Parilla grills and in charcoal ovens. As a unique touch, a resident salt guru helps diners select the perfect salt variety to complement their meals. Bushman’s Restaurant & Bar – Australian Crescendo – International Mekong – Asian The Beach House - Mediterranean The Lotus Lounge - Lounge

ARABIAN RANCHES HOTEL & GOLF CLUB

04 3663000 Dubai

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

AURIS PLAZA HOTEL AL BARSHA

04 4554800 Al Barsha

Zuri has launched and all inclusive à la carte menu featuring a fusion of flavours from east and west washed down with mocktails. Didon Restaurant – Arabic Zuri – Asian

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

04 8096100 Desert

Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant offers traditional local dishes in a stunning setting. Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq – Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Pizzeria Le Dune – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic tea bar

BURJ AL ARAB

04 3017777

Deira

CONRAD DUBAI

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

3 4

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.

ASIANA HOTEL

04 2387777

1. 101 Dining Lounge and Bar, One&Only The Palm 2. Teatro, Towers Rotana 3. Skyview Bar, Burj Al Arab 4. The Beach House, Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa

Jumeirah

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

Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

04 4447444

Sheikh Zayed Road Dine like a star at celebrity restaurant Marco Pierre White Grill, have drinks at trendy wine bar Cave or head to visually striking supperclub Izel for a Latin American feast for all the senses. Ballarò – Sicilian Cave – Wine bar Izel – Latin American Marco Pierre White Grill – British Purobeach Urban Oasis – Lounge

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THE GUIDE/TASTE

DUSIT THANI DUBAI

Green Community

Enjoy international buffets at The Californian, traditional Italian cuisine at PAX or Thai flavours at the hotel's signature restaurant Benjarong.

04 8852222

Enjoy trattoria-style cuisine at Cucina Italian Kitchen and feast on signature delicacies and homemade specialities such as pasta, risotto and pizza. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar

CROWNE PLAZA DUBAI

04 3311111

Sheikh Zayed Road 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

CROWNE PLAZA DUBAI DEIRA

04 2625555 Deira

Enjoy sumptuous flavours from all over the globe at Spice Island. Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

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

DUBAI MARINE BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3461111 Jumeirah

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

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES

04 3194000

Dubai Marina Discover Spanish, Moroccan, French and Italian flavours in one venue at AZ.U.R or head up 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

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road

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

FAIRMONT DUBAI

04 3325555

Sheikh Zayed Road Rooftop lounge Dokuz serves up Turkish cuisine complemented with flavoured shisha, while Cascades presents an array of international delights under a soaring atrium. Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Dokus – Turkish Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese

FAIRMONT THE PALM, DUBAI

04 4573388

Palm Jumeirah Enjoy Brazilian flavours and music from a live band at Frevo or head to Bã Restaurant & Lounge at sunset to enjoy special dining offers and stunning views. Ba 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

FUJAIRAH ROTANA RESORT & SPA

09 2449888

Al Aqah Beach This out-of-town option is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents. Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International

GRAND HYATT DUBAI

04 3171234 Oud Metha

Indian restaurant iZ offers a delicious selection of dishes authentic to the region, presented with contemporary flair. Andiamo! – Italian Awtar – Lebanese Cooz – Jazz bar iZ – Indian 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

Porto Bello offers a tasty pizza and pasta promotion every evening and a daytime brunch on Fridays from AED229 each. Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian Exit 36 – Garden venue Porto Bello – Italian

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 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

ASIAN Benihana – Al Bustan Rotana Blue Elephant, Al Bustan Rotana Pai Thai – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Benihana – Amwaj Rotana Creekside – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Green Spices – Sofitel Dubai Downtown Hanabi – Asiana Hotel Yuraku – Asiana Hotel Asia Republic – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Nobu – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Saffron – Atlantis 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

Summer Palace Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa 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 Wok-In Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Deira 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 Icho – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Indothai – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai 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 Blue Rain – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Spice Emporium – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Zenses – Restaurant & Lounge – Warwick Hotel 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

MEDITERRANEAN Rosso – Amwaj Rotana Ronda Locatelli – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 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 Dante – Grand Millennium Dubai Luciano’s – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Soda Box – Hotel Pullman Mall of the Emirates 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 La Moda – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Certo – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Verdi – Taj Palace Hotel Shades – The Address Dubai Marina Bas Pasta – The Meydan 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 Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fish Bazaar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Divaz – JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel Mi Vida – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa 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

STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Drive – Al Bustan Rotana CUT by Wolfgang Puck – The Address Downtown Duba MJ’s, Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah Seafire – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 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 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

THE NOBU GARDEN, ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, DUBAI GREEN COMMUNITY

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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 Siddharta Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Bar – Bar The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American

HABTOOR GRAND BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3995000

Dubai Marina Al Dhiyafa offers traditional Arabic cuisine and international flavours.

5. Ewaan, The Palace Downtown Dubai 6. Imperium, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray 7. LAO, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah 8. At.mosphere Lounge, Burj Khalifa

Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Fish Bazaar – Seafood Thai Restaurant Luciano’s – Italian Polo Bar – Cocktail bar Summer Place Chinese Restaurant 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 within the cosy setting of 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 you may like to try Issimo Bar & Lounge for the relaxing ambience and light bites on offer at this popular sports bar.

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

HILTON DUBAI JUMEIRAH

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Savour sublime Italian food at this award-winning restaurant. Sleek interiors at BiCE Ristorante add to the ambience at this elegant destination. Elsewhere, Pure Sky Lounge hosts a weekly evening Friday brunch from 8 to 10.30pm for AED295 including house beverages. Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar BiCE Restaurant - Italian Cuban Bar – Cuban Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Pure Sky Lounge - Lounge Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

HOTEL PULLMAN DUBAI MALL OF THE EMIRATES

04 3772000

Sheikh Zayed Road For multi-cultural fare, try all-day dining restaurant Sanabel. Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar

HYATT REGENCY DUBAI

04 2091234 Deira

Dubai’s only revolving restaurant, Al Dawaar, hosts a weekly seafood buffet. Every Thursday evening, for AED235, diners are treated to a lavish fresh seafood offering including whole baked fish, sushi, Belon oysters, poached tiger prawns, Alaskan mussels, blue lobster and more. Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub

IBIS WORLD TRADE CENTRE DUBAI

04 3324444 Zabeel

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

INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 7011111

Dubai Festival City Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire is a world-class fine-dining restaurant offering Michelinstarred French cuisine and Bistro Madeleine is a traditional French café offering a quintessentially Parisian bistro experience, while chefs at Anise prepare international dishes at live cooking stations. Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French 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. Divaz – Seafood restaurant Mushref Bar – Cocktail bar Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Tex Mex Steak House – American Sports Cafe – Sports bar White Orchid – Far Eastern

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

04 3480000 Jumeirah

Enjoy brunch with all the family at Beachcombers every Friday and Saturday, or head to La Parrilla on Sunday evenings for Butcher's Night and indulge in special beef cuts from LatinAmerica chosen by you. 360° – Terrace bar Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American Jamie's Italian – Italian La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Mahiki – Nightclub Uptown – Bar

JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE HOTEL

04 2308555

Dubai Creek A hub of exciting new cuisine on the ground floor, Nomad offers four different dining experiences. Plumeria – Healthy café Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Latin Nomad – International Crimson Gallery - Afternoon tea

JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3300000 DIFC

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

JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY

04 4530000

Palm Jumeirah Imperium is the place to spend your weekend, with three special promotions including 'clique of élite', a culinary journey of French fare on Thursdays, as well as an elegant weekly Friday Brunch and a New Orleans Jazz Brunch on Saturdays. Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda Bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese

JUMEIRA ROTANA HOTEL

04 3455888 Satwa

Try some authentic German flavours in a series of traditional and delicious dishes from this influential European nation 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 in the chic surroundings of Palm Jumeirah. Beachside Barbecue – Brasserie Brunello Restaurant – Italian K-West Bar – Wine bar

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 3993333

Dubai Marina Watatsumi shows that there's more to Japanese cuisine than raw fish with a menu of bold new recipes based on traditional Japanese techniques. Barasti – International Latest Recipe – International Latitude Bar – Bar Watatsumi – Japanese

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Your Unforgettable

Experience!

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

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Helidubai_Concierge_AD_220x275mm_16Aug14.indd 1 Untitled-1 1

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T A ST E / T H E G U I D E

LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3995555

Dubai Marina Modern Mexican restaurant Maya is famed for its Central American cuisine and frozen margarita cocktails that are best enjoyed while overlooking stunning sea views from the roof terrace, while Ossigeno serves up Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Maya – Mexican Bar Below – Wine bar Brasserie – International Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Shades – Sports bar

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 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

TEA TIME 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 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

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MELIÁ DUBAI

04 3868111 Port Rashid

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Deira

04 4498888

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

Each night of the week Talk Restaurant hosts themed nights. It's Australian cuisine on Sunday, Northern European food on Monday, dishes from Africa and the Middle East on Tuesday, South American on Wednesday, food from the United States on Thursday, Asia on Friday and Southern European cuisine on Saturday.

Azalya – International Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian

METROPOLITAN PALACE HOTEL

04 2270000 Deira

A quaint, old-school hotel located in Deira. Al Shindagah – International Al Diwan – Lebanese Malate Bar & Restaurant – Filipino Sketch – Mediterranean

MILLENNIUM PLAZA HOTEL DUBAI Sheikh Zayed Road

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMIERAH LAKES TOWERS

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DOWNTOWN

Jumeirah Lakes Towers

Downtown Dubai

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

La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar

NOVOTEL WORLD TRADE CENTRE

MINA A' SALAM, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3320000

Trade Centre

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim

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

The Wharf is a British-style restaurant which serves delicious fare that includes big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce.

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

OASIS BEACH TOWER

04 3994444

Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining The Wharf – British Zheng He's – Chinese

Jumeirah Beach Residence

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BUR DUBAI

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

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

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE

With six dining establishments ranging from traditional pub Somerset's to authentic Indian restaurant Chutney's, guests are spoilt for choice.

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

Nina serves up delicious Indo-European cuisine in a colourful setting.

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

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.

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

ONE&ONLY THE PALM, DUBAI

04 4401010

The Palm Jumeirah

Jigsaw – International Spiritz – Bar Wok-In Restaurant– Pan Asian

STAY by Yannick Alléno is one of the city's finest gourmet French restaurants.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL IBN BATTUTA GATE

101 Dining Lounge and Bar – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

04 4440000 Jebel Ali

If you can't pick a restaurant, sample 20 miniature courses from across five eateries during the hotel's Dine Around the World Tasting Evening.

04 4502000

Located in the thriving Business Bay district, this new property has excellent views of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI MEDIA CITY

04 3669111

Dubai Media City New 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

RADISSON ROYAL HOTEL DUBAI

04 3080000

Sheikh Zayed Road Celsius hosts daily theme nights from AED179 per person, including Italian Sundays, Lebanese Mondays, seafood on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Spanish Wednesdays, Indian Fridays and international fare on Saturdays. Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indo Thai Asian Restaurant – Asian

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

PARK HYATT DUBAI

RIXOS BAB AL BAHR

Garhoud

Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

04 6021234

Traiteur hosts an excellent brunch every Friday afternoon priced from AED465 to AED690 per person depending on drinks.

Mistral – Arabic Al Bahou – Brunch buffet Sicilia – Italian Shanghai Chic – Chinese Moroc Bar – Moroccan lounge Chor Bazaar – Indian

This month Minato introduces a sushi and teppanyaki buffet every night evening, while Fish Market launches early bird dining offers.

Talk Restaurant – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar Chinwaggery + Soul Bar, Lounge & Restaurant - New York-style brasserie

From September 4, nosh hosts a Thai festival at which guests who dine in the restaurant also have the chance to win a trip to Thailand.

9. The Act, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai 10. Nobu, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 11. Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, Meliá Dubai

04 2227171

Boulvar – International Fish Market – Seafood Ku-Bu – Cocktail Bar La Moda – Italian Marbles – Lobby bar Minato – Japanese Palm Grill – Steakhouse Shabestan – Iranian Sumibiya – Asian The China Club – Chinese The Pub – English Up On The 10th – Jazz Bar Yum – Noodle bar

04 4380000

04 3877777

Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is located in the heart of the city. Drop into La Plaza for a spot of Mediteranean fare.

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH

Cafe Arabesque - Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

07 2444400

Fish Bone serves fresh seafood in a fine-dining setting. Fish Bone – Seafood L'Olivo – Italian Lalezar – Middle Eastern Meat Point – South American Seven Heights – International Toast 'n Burger – Casual

24/08/2014 11:38

Supported By:

700KM

Round 3: 17-18 October

24HOURS

Round 4: 28-29 November

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

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T A ST E / T H E G U I D E

RIXOS THE PALM DUBAI

04 4575555

Palm Jumeirah Salt offers the finest seafood in a friendly atmosphere.

A TASTE OF CHINA

A la Turca – International L'Olivo Restaurant – Italian Nargile - Shisha lounge Biber- Lounge Salt - Seafood

04 3230111

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali.

04 3438888

Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Verdi – Italian

Sheikh Zayed Road Hoi An offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with French influences, served in a vibrant atmosphere.

THE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN DUBAI

Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

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

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL & TOWERS

04 2281111 Deira

THE ADDRESS DUBAI MALL

Monday is couples night at Vivaldi by Alfredo and this month tables of two can enjoy a four-course set menu and a bottle of wine for only AED309.

Visit Peacock for delicious Chinese cuisine. Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International Peacock – Chinese

SHERATON DUBAI, MALL OF THE EMIRATES HOTEL

04 3772000

Arabian bazaar-style restaurant Sanabel offers Mediterranean and international cuisine. Sanctuary Pool Lounge - Lounge Sanabel - Mediterranean Vantage - Lounge

SOFITEL DUBAI DOWNTOWN

04 5036666

Downtown Dubai New penthouse bar The 31 offers panoramic views of Dubai and an enticing cocktail menu. Green Spices – Thai Les Cuisines – International Red Grill – French The 31 – Bar

SOFITEL DUBAI JUMEIRAH BEACH

04 4484848

Dubai Marina AOC French Brasserie serves French and international cuisine and hosts a variety of themed culinary nights as well as a Friday brunch. AOC French Brasserie – French Plantation - All-day dining The Hub – Sports bar

Signature restaurants across Sofitel The Palm, Dubai offer excellent 'happy hour' deals as well as special set menus and themed nights.

Deira

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 2232222

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

04 3995533

TOWERS ROTANA DUBAI

Meydan

TAJ PALACE HOTEL

Sample creative dishes from around the world at Petals.

SHERATON JUMEIRAH BEACH RESORT

THE MEYDAN

Palm Jumeirah

04 4556677

Manava – International Studio du Chef – French Porterhouse Steaks & Grills – International Bottega - Italian Deli – Italian Hong Loong - Asian

ROSE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

Ashiana by Vineet – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese and Asian Hatta – International buffet Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo – Italian

SOFITEL THE PALM, DUBAI

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai

Yuan Contemporary cool meets traditional flavours at this exciting Chinese restaurant. The fresh fine-dining concept offers a blend of traditional Szechuan cuisine in a modern setting. Delicious dishes such as Szechuan-style sautéed string beans with minced chicken are among the menu highlights. Location: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Contact: 04 4262626 BaAnother exciting Chinese dining venue opened its doors in the last year. 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 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

Poolside venue Cabana has created a special 09/09 set menu to mark the opening of The Address Dubai Mall on 09/09/09. Na3Na3 and Karat are also launching anniversary specials in honour of the date. Boutiq – Lounge Cabana – Lounge Karat – Afternoon tea La Porte des Indes – Indian French Na3Na3 – Arabic

THE ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA

04 4238888

Dubai Marina For a family friendly Friday brunch, book a table at Mazina where guests can enjoy a range of international dishes and drinks from AED280 per adult. Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

04 3905600

Emirates Hills Enjoy tapas at Monty's every evening. Choose from an offering including crispy calamari with lemon mayonnaise from AED109 per person. 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 Gold lounge – Lounge Mizaan - International

04 3813333

Enjoy truly succulent steaks with sensational racecourse views at stunning restaurant, Prime. Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house 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. This chic hotel also offers fine Asian fare at Umai restaurant. Ananta – Indian Nine7One – International The Lobby Lounge – Lounge The Lobby Bar - Bar Umai – Asian

THE PALACE DOWNTOWN DUBAI

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai Every Wednesday and Saturday for AED180 enjoy afternoon tea at The Palace and enjoy a buffet of hot and cold appetisers, entrees and desserts as you sip on premium teas and infusions as recommended by the resident tea sommelier. Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai

THE RITZ-CARLTON DUBAI

04 3994000

Dubai Marina Lobby Lounge is a wonderful spot to enjoy sumptuous teas, with a variety of blends and freshly baked cakes and pastries to sample. Amaseena – Arabic Blue Jade - Asian Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian

THE RITZ-CARLTON, DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE

04 3722222 DIFC

Center Cut boasts a menu of the finest steaks and grilled meats paired with premium beverages. Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar

THE WESTIN DUBAI MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 3994141

Dubai Marina Enjoy delicious dishes from Blue Orange, Hunters and Spice Emporium at the Bubbalicious Friday brunch. Priced at AED650 per person with free-flowing bubbly. Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian El Sur - Spanish Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai

04 3438000

CITY DINING

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

AQUARA

TRADERS HOTEL DUBAI

Dubai Marina Yacht Club

04 2659888 Deira

The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style. Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

04 3627934

Enjoy spectacular views over Dubai Marina. AT.MOSPHERE

04 8883828 Burj Khalifa

VILLA ROTANA

The world's 'Highest Restaurant from Ground Level'.

Sheikh Zayed Road

BLUE MARLIN

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

WALDORF ASTORIA DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH

04 8182222

Palm Jumeirah Lao offers a unique take on Southeast Asian fare, Social by Heinz Beck presents innovative European cuisine and Mezzerie hosts international buffets alongside à la carte menu offerings. Social by Heinz Beck – European Lao – Southeast Asian Mezzerie – Brasserie Palm Avenue – European

WARWICK HOTEL DUBAI

04 5069600

Sheikh Zayed Road New restaurant World on 44 offers 360-degree panoramic views and a blend of Peruvian and Mediterranean flavours. Bayty – All-day dining Deli Grind – Middle Eastern World on 44 – Southeast Asian Zenses Restaurant & Lounge – Pan-Asian

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.

056 1133400 Ghantoot

Chic beach club boasting the sounds of Ibiza. CARLUCCIO'S

04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment. CAVALLI CLUB

04 332960

Fairmont Dubai A chic nightspot that attracts a trendy late-night crowd. CENTIMETRO

04 3666730

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. CHI’ZEN

04 2329077, 04 3549288 Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates

First-class Cantonese cuisine and amazing views. 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. WEST 14TH

04 4477601

The Palm Jumeirah Expect succulent steaks at this New York grill and bar.

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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

GUARANTEED AUDIENCE DELIVERY ON EVERY ADVERTISING INVESTMENT THE LARGEST PORTFOLIO OF AUDITED TITLES IN THE UAE*, WITH FIVE EDITIONS COMING UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF BPA WORLDWIDE

Dubai In-room at 91 hotels across Dubai

Abu Dhabi In-room at 59 hotels across Abu Dhabi

Russian Distributed at 182 hotels across the UAE

Arabic Distributed at 173 hotels across the UAE

Chinese Distributed at 182 hotels across the UAE

We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make claims, we simply deliver. Contact: concierge@npimedia.com for further information, or call +9714 4243640

*BPA Audit applied for Russian, Arabic, Chinese

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PALM JUMEIRAH AND ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI This manmade island is home to an incredible selection of restaurants, entertainment and white sand beaches. Luxury resort Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, calls this idyllic spot home. From world-class restaurants to designer shopping the hotel also offers family fun at Aquaventure water park set in 42 acres with speed slides and lush tropical landscapes. Take a ride on the Palm Monorail for panoramas of this unique island.

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 below.

8 1 75

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 water park. 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.

6 24

40 58

PALM JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH BEACH

74 25 30

84 44 28

5 73 65

HIGHWAY SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

ROAD TO JEBEL ALI → GOLF RESORT & SPA

DUBAI MARINA 5

JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS

43 89 57

AL SUFOUH ROAD

7 5

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT,

16 GREEN COMMUNITY

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F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

DUBAI

M A G A Z I N E

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HOTELS

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

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 Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 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

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MALL OF THE 14 EMIRATES

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

26 TIMES SQUARE CENTER

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 1 2 3 4 5

DUBAI L U X U R Y

AL BARSHA

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

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

EMIRATES HILLS

●

T H E

26 47

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

UMM SUQEIM AL WASL ROAD

IBN BATTUTA MALL

ROAD TO: DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL AIRPORT

13 36

DUBAI MEDIA CITY AND KNOWLEDGE VILLAGE

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

62 DUBAI INTERNET CITY/

79 10

E2 D3 D2 D2 A1 B1 E1 A1 B2 E1 B3 B3 B1 B2 D2 A2 D2

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Fairmont Dubai Dusit Thani Dubai Fairmont The Palm Grand Hyatt Dubai Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort Hyatt Regency Dubai Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai InterContinental Dubai Festival City Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeriah Creekside Hotel Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence

ROAD TO BAB AL SHAMS RESORT &SPA 11 ● ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB ● DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN 6 CLUB

12 DUBAI SPORTS CITY

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Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeira Rotana Dubai Kempinski Residences and Hotel Apartments Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Madinat Jumeirah (Al Qasr, Mina A’Salam, Dar Al Masyaf) Media One Hotel Media Rotana, Barsha Dubai Meliã Dubai Metropolitan Palace Hotel Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Deira Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers Nassima Tower Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai

A1 D1 A1 A1 A1 B1 A1 B2 E1 E1 D2 E2 E1 A1 A2 D2 D2

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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 Mall of the Emirates Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel and Towers Sofitel Dubai Downtown Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort

B1 A1 E2 D2 E1 B1 D2 E2 A1 E2 B1 D2 D2 B2 A1 D2 A1 A1

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75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93

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.

WOLLONGONG BEACH

5 20 28

JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD

16 14

BUR DUBAI 41

JUMEIRAH SATWA RD

AL WASL ROAD

24 SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

6 91

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.

TRAD

16 68

23 93

E CEN

TRE RD 5

WORLD TRADE CENTRE

OUD METHA

64 3

MEYDAN

ROAD TO:

10 ● DUBAI OUTLET MALL ●

JA H

ROAD TO: RIXOS BAB

●

66 AL BAHR

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

37 DUBAI CREEK GOLF &YACHT CLUB

GARHOUD BRIDGE

2 26

GARHOUD

20 21 ROAD TO:

KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

82 10

ROAD TO: DRAGONMART

TO: 2 ROAD ARABIAN CENTER

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

●

2 RESORT &SPA

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

19 34

AL MAHA DESERT

76 CLOCK TOWER

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.

59 24

DUBAI HEALTHCARE CITY

CREEK PARK

AS HE ED R

MAKTOUM BRIDGE 23

ZAABEEL

CORN ICHE

AL KARAMA

AL R

DEIRA 11

12 18

THE DUBAI MALL

DEIRA

JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

77 78

38 56

DIFC

DOWNTOWN DUBAI

63 55 15 22 81

SATWA

DUBAI MUSEUM

MANKHOOL RD

LYA AL JAFI

MINA RD

29 23 20

JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK

DUBAI CREEK

THE WORLD UNDER CONSTRUCTION

DUBAI CREEK, SOUKS AND DUBAI MUSEUM The heart of the city, the Creek is a stunning spot to catch a glimpse of authentic Dubai. See dhows (traditional boats) ply their trade along the waters while early morning visitors will see fishermen at work on the river banks. Also in this part of the city is Dubai Museum, which makes for a fascinating day out with interactive displays and exhibits charting the emirate’s history from its pearl diving days. Stop by the gold, spice and perfume souks for some traditional treasures before leaving this vibrant area.

HERITAGE VILLAGE

SHEIK SAEED AL MAKTOUM HOUSE

JUMEIRAH BEACH CORNICHE

SAFA PARK

2 mile 2 km

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Al Ghurair City E1 Arabian Center E3 Beach Centre D1 BurJuman E1 Choithram B2/C2/D1/E1 Supermarket locations Citywalk Mall D1 Deira City Centre E2 Dragonmart D3 Dubai Festival City E2 Dubai Marina Mall A1 Dubai Outlet Mall D3 Gold and Diamond Park B2 Ibn Battuta Mall A2 Jumeirah Centre D1 Boulevard at Jumeirah D2 Emirates Towers Jumeirah Plaza D1 Lamcy Plaza E2 Mall of the Emirates B2 Mazaya Centre D2 Mercato D1

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21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Mirdif City Centre Oasis Centre Palm Strip Spinneys Supermarket locations The Beach Mall The Dubai Mall Times Square Centre Town Centre The Village Wafi

E3 C2 D1 C2/D2/E1 A1 D2 C2 D1 D1 E2

4 5 6 7 8

Aquaventure Aviation Club Al Nasr Leisureland and Stadium Al Wasl Stadium Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Dubai Sports City Helidubai

B1 E2 E2 E2 A1 B3 B3 E2

Jebel Ali Sailing Club (JASC) Meydan Racecourse Ski Dubai Skydive Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai Autodrome Dubai Dolphinarium

A1 D2 B2 A1 B1 B3 E2

DUBAI METRO 1 2 3

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 1 2 3

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

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

A2 A2 A2 A2 A2 B2 B2 B2 B2 C2 D2 D2

Financial Centre Emirates Towers World Trade Centre 18 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

D2 D2 D2 D2 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2

3 4 5 6 7

Creek Al Jadaf Dubai Health Care City Oud Metha BurJuman Saeedia Al Ghubaiba

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Al Ras 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

E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2

* Please call the RTA on 800 90 90 or visit wojhati.rta.ae for more information.

DUBAI METRO GREEN LINE 1

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Icon for shopping area or mall.

21/08/2014 15:07

{

My Dubai Dubai-based couture fashion designer Rami Al Ali shares his city highlights

}

I left my home country, Syria, in 1997 to travel to Dubai. In truth, it was never intended to be a permanent move but, as Dubai is the closest international fashion hub to Syria, it seemed the most logical destination to establish relationships and gain more exposure within the fashion industry. Since then, I have never looked back. Dubai offers a great balance between my working and personal lives. It’s a very energetic city that is always in a state of continual change. It has been a great place for me to start a career in the fashion industry and to establish the Rami Al Ali Couture label. Since moving to Dubai, the city has completely changed and many exciting projects and new developments have arisen. Dubai is definitely the hub of the Middle East when it comes to retail. It’s a fantastic place to shop as it hosts great designers from across the globe. While I prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the malls, they do offer everything under one roof and I tend to go to The Dubai Mall for most of my shopping needs. I also like to visit some of the smaller boutiques the city has to offer. At the weekend I unwind and catch up with friends. That will either mean having

a chat over a cup of coffee or going out to enjoy an evening meal, whether that’s at Okku at The H Dubai or in the atmospheric Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood area. I like visiting the older areas such as the Gold Souk and Dubai Creek where there’s a lot of culture and heritage, including art galleries, museums and quaint cafés and restaurants. I don’t necessarily have favourite places to eat because I love trying out new restaurants and new cuisine. That said, though, Teatro at Towers Rotana offers an outstanding dining experience. I also love La Petite Maison in DIFC Gate Village. I’ve always been a fan of Mediterranean fare and this place offers some of the best in the city. When I have visitors in town, I recommend they take in key attractions such as The Dubai Fountain at The Dubai Mall and, of course, the viewing platform At the Top in Burj Khalifa. It’s also nice to be able to suggest a few places that wouldn’t necessarily be on people’s radars such as Souk Al Bahar and the more cultural parts of the city. My favourite event on the Dubai social calendar has to be Dubai World Cup. It’s a great event to people watch and I love soaking up the lively atmosphere.

“Dubai is definitely the hub of the Middle East when it comes to retail. It’s a fantastic place to shop as it hosts great designers from across the globe”

1 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood 2 Rainbow Sushi at Teatro, Towers Rotana

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