Concierge Dubai Magazine, January 2012 by npimedia fz llc

JANUARY 2013 | issue 101

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

dubai edition JANUARY 2013 | issue 101

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

Licensed by international Media Production Zone

Available at:

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JANUARY 2013 / Issue 101 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

edi tor i a l Grou p Edi tor fay e row e Con t r ibu t ing edi tor S c at he r in e l a ngl e y ol i v i a cu t hbe rt fa shion Edi tor naomi ch a dde rton produc t ion Edi tor de br a fr e e m a n-t hor pe

st u dio Se n ior A rt Dir ec tor An dr e a T e m pesta Sen ior Design er Ton y Sa n t i ago Photogr a pher A dh a m Sn e e h Produc t ion Coor dinator Nav e e d A ziz

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CIRCULATION & M AR K ETING c a rol mil a n Chr ist in e H a m a da

In t er nat iona l sa l es Blei SpA, Italy Via Carlo Cazzaniga, 19 – 20132 Milano  Tel +39 02 722 511 / Email: info@bleispa.it S’REGIE, France 46, Rue Sainte Anne 75002 Paris Tel +33 1 56 88 20 80 / Email: STOMA@sregie.com

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 Concie rge m aga zi n e , t h e pu bl ish e r c a nn 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 rro r s o r inaccur acies. Articles contained within Concierge m aga z i n e a r e u n de r cop y r igh t to t h e pu bl ish e r a nd ca nnot be r eproduced or tr a nsmit ted in a n y form, without first obtaining written permission.

WELCOME TO concierge Full of optimism, ambition and the best of intentions, the start of a new year provides all the motivation needed to achieve one’s goals. Whether your aim is to travel more, try new experiences or simply to revamp your wardrobe, Dubai is the ideal destination in which to turn your dreams into reality. In a city where (almost) anything is possible, it’s hard not to feel empowered by the emirate’s aspirational attitude. On top of offering a packed calendar of premier events, including everything from the Dubai World Cup in March through to the Dubai International Film Festival in December, there is a variety of exciting developments pencilled in for the year ahead. With more luxury hotels set to open, plans are also underway for a string of new attractions. Among them is an all-new safari park, a crocodile park, a AED200 million (US$54.5 million) wharfage for Dubai Creek and a one-million-square-foot expansion to The Dubai Mall, which is already the world’s most-visited shopping and entertainment destination. It comes as no surprise then that Dubai is attracting visitors in their droves, with hotels reaching record levels of occupancy. Dubai International Airport’s Concourse 3 is set to open in the first quarter of 2013, facilitating up to 75 million passengers per year and marking a huge achievement for the emirate. In our debut edition of the year, Concierge highlights the fantastic shopping opportunities and entertainment provided by Dubai Shopping Festival, taking place from January 3 to February 3. Additionally, as Burj Khalifa celebrates its third anniversary this month, we thought it fitting to chart the striking structure’s rise to success on page 60. For those seeking adventure, read our feature on exploring the other emirates that make up the UAE on page 70. From scaling mountains in a four-wheel drive in Hatta to discovering UNESCO World Heritage sites in Al Ain, all this and more is waiting to be discovered just beyond the border. In the TASTE section this month, we spotlight the most talked about new restaurants in the city – just make sure you call in advance to make a reservation. Alternatively, for relaxed beachside dining, see our selection of scenic venues on page 92. Enjoy your stay in Dubai and SHOP, DISCOVER, EXPERIENCE and TASTE the best of the city with Concierge.

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

In focus Photography: Joshua Jordan/ Jed Root Syndication

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

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

Жу рна л «Конс ьерж» та к же и з дае т с я на русском, арабском и китайском языках. Вы можете попросить экземп ляр ж у рна ла у консьерж-службы в вестибюле гостиницы.

‫ أطلب نسخه‬.‫مجلة كونسيرج متوفرة باللغة العربية كذلك‬ .‫من مكتب االستقبال في بهو الفندق‬ <<Concierge>> 杂志也以俄语﹑中文﹑阿拉伯语出版，请联系您所下榻的酒店前台索取。

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Duabi’s reputation as a destination for style and glamour is drawing shoppers from all over the world to its ever-growing number of luxury boutiques. This month’s Dubai Shopping Festival adds further weight to the emirate’s burgeoning status as the region’s definitive retail hub. Concierge explores the link between travel and style in this issue’s photoshoot. Turn to page 34 for inspiration on how to travel in style with clothes and accessories straight from the catwalk.

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contents JANUARY 2013 / Issue 101

16/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

23/SNAPSHOT The ‘heart of the city’, Dubai Creek

25/SHOP 26/shopping inspiration

Enjoy fantastic shopping promotions and entertainment at the city’s top malls during the Dubai Shopping Festival

34/PASSPORT TO GLAMOUR

Travel in style with these elegant ensembles from the autumn/winter catwalks

44/THE DAWN OF TIME

Concierge celebrates with Breguet during the brand’s 200th anniversary in Capri

50/DISCOVER 52/IN THE FRAME

Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh shares his advice on capturing striking shots of Dubai

60/REACHING NEW HEIGHTS Charting the rise of Dubai’s iconic landmark, Burj Khalifa

66/GREEN ZONE

Step into Creekside Park for a lush escape

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contents JANUARY 2013 / Issue 101

69/EXPERIENCE 70/EXPANDING HORIZONS Take to the roads and explore the other emirates that form the UAE

76/EASE INTO THE NEW YEAR

Reviving spa treatments to kick-start 2013

83/TASTE 84/DELICIOUS DEBUTS

The most talked about new restaurants on Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dining scene

90/MILK MONITOR Camel milk is healthy, nutritious and in a cappuccino near you

92/SHORE SIDE Reserve a table on the beach for the best al fresco dining

Q 97/THE GUIDE

Comprehensive listings to plan the perfect stay

120/MY DUBAI

Events director Ashley Roberts shares his top tips on how to have a fun-filled stay in the city

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Brought to you in association with

essentials JANUARY

EXPERIENCE

Dubai World Cup Carnival Equine fans will be pleased to hear they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to wait until the Dubai World Cup on March 30 for racing action, because the Meydan Masters International Jockey Challenge will kick off the Dubai World Cup Carnival on January 3. A number of fixtures take place throughout January, February and March, concluding with the Dubai World Cup. For details visit dubairacingclub.com

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EVENTS IN BRIEF L I WA 2 013 December 29 to January 4 Join crowds of motoring enthusiasts at the Moreeb Dune area, the entry point to the Empty Quarter, for a six-day festival where drivers compete in a series of driving challenges, culminating in scaling the highest sand dune in the world, Tel Moreeb (known as ‘Scary Mountain’). There’s also camel, horse and falcon racing – get in the spirit by pitching a tent and camping in the dunes. Visit admc.ae

D u b ai lat i n f e s t i val January 24 to 27 This fantastic four-day event unites the Latin dance community under one roof at Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel. Professional dancers, students, instructors, DJs, musicians and anyone with even an appreciation for Latin culture and music will enjoy this colourful occasion. For more information simply visit dubailatinfest.com

DISCOVER

Al Farooq Omar ibn Al Khattab Mosque Hidden away in the suburb of Umm Suqeim near Jumeirah is Al Farooq Omar ibn Al Khattab Mosque – one of only a few mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslims. Known for its decorative mihrabs (ornamentally embellished niches inside that indicate the direction of Mecca), the mosque’s tour organisers operate six days a week. Contact: 04 3944448.

S ta n da r d C h a r t e r e d d u b ai m a r at h o n 2 012 January 25 This yearly running race begins at Downtown Dubai and stretches over 42 kilometres. Some US$250,000 (AED918,000) in prize money is awarded to the fastest male and female runners and a new world record lands a runner US$1 million dollars (AED3.67 million). Log on to dubaimarathon.org

SHOP

Montblanc Frequent flyers can dispense with any confusion over time differences by donning the stylish new Nicolas Rieussec Open Home Time by Montblanc. Two dials tell the time at home and abroad simultaneously with an off-centre sub-dial that shows local time and another disc slotted behind it to reveal the hour at home. The mechanism is based around a complex interplay of three rotating discs and has been created to pay tribute to Nicolas Rieussec, pioneer of the world’s first chronograph. The graceful design is complemented by Guilloché detailing and a skeletonised dial that reveals the sophisticated mechanism underneath. Available from Montblanc’s flagship boutique at The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 4340300.

big boys toys January 31 to February 2 Big Boys Toys is the Middle East’s premier luxury lifestyle exhibition. Taking place at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, this event showcases the most unique exhibits with a focus on innovative products. This year’s event will bring together the latest technologies and the biggest brands along with high-impact entertainment features. For more information visit bigboystoysuae.com

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Ask the concierge S h r e e R a m T h a pa , c h i e f c o n c i e r g e at T h e A d d r e ss Downtown Dubai gives us h i s t o p r e c o m m e n d at i o n s f o r a n a c t i o n - pa c k e d stay i n t h e c i t y

First-time visitors to Dubai can enjoy an excellent introduction to the city by taking a trip to the top of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. The viewing deck on Level 124 provides unobstructed 360-degree views of the emirate in all its glory and the experience is simply breathtaking. A lot of guests ask me where the best place to spend a day at the shops is and I always suggest The Dubai Mall, which is home to a huge number of luxury brands. It’s not only the variety of high-end stores that makes this my first recommendation, but the entire shopping experience available, which includes impressive entertainment and dining facilities. Among the most popular attractions is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where visitors can watch the sharks at feeding times and even swim with them for a truly exhilarating once-in-alifetime experience. Outside the mall, another major attraction that holds visitors spellbound is the The Dubai Fountain, one of this city’s stunning sights and easily among my top five recommendations for things to do here. To become better acquainted with the emirate’s cultural heritage, there are a number of spots to take in, including the Dubai Museum, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s house, the Heritage and Diving Village and Al Ahmadiya School and Heritage House. In the evening, I suggest heading to Hukama, the high-end Chinese dining restaurant in The Address Downtown, which serves excellent food accompanied by stunning views of Burj Khalifa.

TASTE

Dinner cruise Dubai is known for its idyllic restaurants, but if you’re really looking to make a splash, book in for a scenic evening dinner cruise. Whether you choose to enjoy a Dubai Creek cruise on a traditional dhow or f loating restaurant, or board a private boat for two and explore the tranquil waters of Dubai Marina, the city’s waterways provide the perfect backdrop for an atmospheric meal. There’s a variety of cruise companies in Dubai, but our top recommendations include Bateaux Dubai (pictured) and Al Mansour Dhow. Turn to page 104 for a list of companies, or consult your hotel concierge.

EXPERIENCE

Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2013 Stars of the golfing world will be out in force for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, which takes place from January 31 to February 3 at Emirates Golf Club. For four nail-biting days, world-class players, including world number seven Lee Westwood, will battle it out on the fairways in the hope of taking home the trophy. Contact: dubaidesertclassic.com

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EXPERIENCE

LOOKING AHEAD

A reviving spa treatment

C S13 – W D u b a i S h o w – Jumping Championship

With no shortage of world-class spas throughout the city’s top hotels, Dubai is a wonderful destination to indulge in a spot of pampering. We rate the The Spa at The Address Downtown (pictured), which is offering bespoke treatments especially for the new year. The invigorating New You package for women includes a foot rub, scrub and reflexology followed by a green tea facial, while the Stone Body & Soul for men features a hot stone massage and back treatment. Time: Daily, 9am to 10pm. Price: AED615. Contact: 04 4368888.

January 31 to February 2 Olympic medalists and the UAE’s most promising show-jumping stars gather for three days of intense competition. Hosted by the Emirates Equestrian Centre, this free family-friendly weekend starts from January 31. For details visit emiratesequestriancentre.com

5 t h E m i r at es C l a ss i c C a r F es t i va l February 7 to 9 Considered the emirate’s premier showcase of classic cars and motorbikes, this annual exhibition is a must for car enthusiasts. Don’t miss the crowddrawing parade on Emaar Boulevard. For details visit emiratesclassiccarfestival.com

E m i r at es a i r l i n e D u b a i J a z z F es t i va l February 14 to 22 Returning for its 11th edition, this year’s nine-day line-up includes British rock band Deep Purple and American rockers OneRepublic and 3 Doors Down. Hosted at Dubai Festival City, for details visit dubaijazzfest.com

DISCOVER Camel racing

For something out of the ordinary, take a trip to the Dubai Camel Racing Club located in Lisailly, approximately 35 kilometres from Dubai. The camel-racing season runs from October to the end of April. When: Races are held every Thu, Fri and Sat and on national holidays. Contact: 04 8324040.

D u b a i D u t y F r ee Te n n i s C h a m p i o n s h i p 2 013 February 18 to March 2 Witness the world’s top international tennis players as they battle it out on the courts of The Aviation Club. With last year drawing a crowd of more than 100,000 spectators, be sure to secure your tickets soon. For details visit dubaidutyfreetennischampionship.com

TH E S TON E RO S E S February 21 Fans of British super bands won’t want to miss The Stone Roses live at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. Featuring the full line-up – Ian Brown, John Squire, Mani and Reni – the the band is expected to perform hits such as ‘She Bangs The Drums’ and ‘Fools Gold’. For tickets call 04 4390900.

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ATLANTIS +971 4 4226717

JUMEIRAH BEACH +971 4 3488102

MINA A’ SALAM +971 4 3686262

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

S NA P S HOT

The heart of Dubai One of the most culturally diverse spots in the city, Dubai’s historic Creek, which divides Deira and Bur Dubai, was primarily used for fishing and pearl diving. When the cultured pearl was introduced in the 1930s, it brought an abrupt end to this lucrative industry and threw the emirate’s economy into disarray. Fortunately, Dubai Creek also served as a minor port for dhows (traditional Arabian boats) bearing goods until the 1960s when it was dredged to allow access for larger boats, which subsequently helped to keep the financial system buoyant. Today, dhows are still very much a part of life on the Creek and can be seen moored on the Deira bank. Abras (water taxis) are also a familiar sight, transporting people between the busy souks (markets) and trading hubs on either side. Often referred to as ‘the heart of Dubai’, the waterway is a constant hive of activity and a must-see for any visitor.

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shop A nimal instinct

Photographed at an eccentrically decorated country mansion in the heart of the English countryside, Thomas Pinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s autumn/ winter collection harks back to an earlier era in British fashion when Harris tweeds, checked shirts, moss green silks and bold berry shades were popular looks for shooting parties and weekends on the estate. Contact: 04 2011111.

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D ub ai S hoppi n g Fe s t i v a l / s hop

SHOPPING INSPIRATION For a unique collaboration of shopping, entertainment and spectacular prizes, enjoy a 32-day retail extravaganza during the Dubai Shopping Festival

Aside from the winter sunshine and sandy beaches, visitors to Dubai have something extra special to look forward to this January, with the return of the internationally acclaimed Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF). Marking its 18th anniversary this year, the event, which is taking place between January 3 and February 3, will light up the city with its unique blend of shopping, prizes and family-friendly entertainment. Known as ‘Layali Dubai’ in Arabic, Dubai Shopping Festival was introduced in 1996 and has grown to cater to over three million visitors each year, with around 70 city malls participating in the celebrations. This year’s theme is ‘Dubai at its best’, illustrating how visitors can expect the crème de la crème of shopping, entertainment and dining. With incredible performances, spectacular fireworks, daily prizes and more, it’s a retail experience like no other. Kicking off with a stunning firework and laser show across Dubai Creek, the event is set to dazzle from the start. Those looking to transform their wardrobes will be pleased to know that Dubai now boasts the largest collection of international fashion brands in the world next to London. From its sprawling malls to traditional souks, even the most seasoned shoppers can’t fail to be impressed. Furthermore, shopping in Dubai is largely tax-free, so with the additional discounts of up to 75 per cent on everything from jewellery and clothes to electronics, carpets, textiles and beauty products during the festival, visitors can find even more for their money in the emirate. For inspiration on what to select from all the latest collections in store, there are numerous catwalk shows taking place. Shoppers will also have the opportunity to win a number of daily and weekly giveaways taking place throughout the malls. This year, prizes include a luxurious LX570 sports car, as well as AED100,000 in cash thanks to the Lexus Mega Raffle. In between trips to the shops, there’s plenty of entertainment happening around town, including the popular annual carnival and a stunning parade with performances by international artists, acrobats, percussionists and dancers. January is also the ideal time of year to visit Global Village. Located a short drive from Downtown Dubai, on the Emirates Road, this family-friendly attraction offers a unique opportunity to ‘shop the globe’ in one location with pavilions from every country in the world displaying traditional products for sale. One of DSF’s biggest draws, Global Village also has food stalls, thrilling rides, sporting activities to take part in and lucky draws. With fireworks happening all season long and spectacular performances highlighting different cultures, it is a great way to get into the shopping spirit. To help you plan your trip, read on for a round-up of Dubai’s premier malls…

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The Dubai Mall

Famous for its record-breaking size, The Dubai Mall received 54 million visitors in 2011. To put that in perspective, this figure exceeds the annual number of visitors to New York City. Surprising? Not really when you consider that The Dubai Mall boasts more than 1,200 outlets. Style mavens should explore Fashion Avenue, which is abundant with designer boutiques. If you run out of stamina, simply refuel at the stylish Armani/Dubai Caffè located in the central area of the avenue. Parents are also in luck because The Dubai Mall provides fantastic entertainment for children, including edutainment centre KidZania, a 22-screen cinema, a gigantic aquarium, Olympic-sized ice rink and a Sega Republic indoor theme park. Where: Downtown Dubai When: 10am to 10pm, Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight, Thu to Sat / Contact: 800 382246255

Style mavens should explore Fashion Avenue, which is abundant with designer boutiques. If you run out of stamina, simply refuel at the stylish Armani/Dubai Caffè 4

1 The Fashion Catwalk, Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (previous page) 2 Dolce & Gabbana A/W ‘12 to ‘13 3 Forevermark Solitaire Circles Pave pendant, available at Damas 4 Hysek Furtif Chronograph (hysek.com) 5 The Dubai Mall 6 Mercato

Mercato For those who enjoy shopping on a smaller scale, look no further than Mercato – an Italian-themed shopping mall located on Jumeirah Beach Road. A unique blend of Tuscan and Venetian architecture, inspired by the Renaissance period, sets this mall apart. While it’s smaller in comparison to other malls, it ticks all the retail boxes with a diverse mix of brands, including Massimo Dutti, Hugo Boss and Virgin Megastore. Where: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah When: 10am to 10pm Sun to Thu and 10am to midnight Fri and Sat / Contact: 04 3444161

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

Dubai Marina Mall

Dubai Marina Mall is a coup for those staying at the five-star Address Dubai Marina Hotel, as the shops are directly linked to the hotel. While it may look diminutive in comparison to some of Dubai’s retail palaces, this marina-side mall holds its own, housing 130 stores, including Balmain, Juicy Couture and jewellery powerhouse Damas. In addition to the retail offerings, there is also a six-screen cinema showing the latest blockbusters and a number of dining spots, including Italian favourite Carluccio’s. Where: Dubai Marina When: 10 am to 10pm, Sat to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu and Fri / Contact: 04 4361020

7 Dubai Marina Mall 8 BurJuman 9 Black tweed and leather short boots, Chanel A/W ‘12 10 Brown exotic leather bag, Chanel A/W ‘12 11 Dark blue velvet boy bag, Chanel A/W ‘12 12&13 Valentino A/W ‘12

BurJuman Located in Bur Dubai and close to Dubai Creek, BurJuman is one of the city’s most time-honoured shopping malls. Known for its diverse mix of luxury and high-street fashion stores, visitors can enjoy a large selection of designer brands, including Donna Karan, Christian Lacroix, Cartier and Louis Vuitton. Another highlight of the mall is Saks Fifth Avenue – the largest store at BurJuman. Spread over two floors, Saks houses everything from perfumes, cosmetics and sunglasses to designer clothes, shoes, accessories and more.

Where: Bur Dubai / When: 10am to 10pm, Sat to Wed and 10am to 11pm, Thu and Fri Contact: 04 3520222

8 9 11

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SHO P/ DUB A I S HO PPIN G F ESTIV A L

14, 15 &16 Ring, necklace and earrings, Nina Ricci Fruits Glaces, available exclusively at Paris Gallery 17 &18 Tosca Blu 19 Ibn Battuta Mall 20 Aigner bag, available at Paris Gallery 21 Dubai Festival Centre

Ibn Battuta Mall Uniquely designed to celebrate the travels of the famous Arabic explorer Ibn Battuta, this mammoth mall is divided into six different sections – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China – with exciting décor to match each area. Housing a diverse range of over 275 shops and 50 restaurants, there’s a lot of ground to cover. Fortunately, the mall is conveniently constructed on one level, so navigation is relatively simple, making it the destination of choice for those who like to explore each and every shop.

Where: Jebel Ali / When: 10am to 10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu to Sat / Contact: 04 3621900

Located in the heart of Dubai Festival City, this giant mall is home to a multitude of department stores, high-street chains, designer jewellery brands and a 12-screen cinema 21

Dubai Festival Centre If you like to shop the scenic way, Dubai Festival Centre with its pleasant waterfront walkways, outdoor cafés and unrivalled views of the historic Dubai Creek is the retail destination for you. Located in the heart of Dubai Festival City – a 1,300-acre urban community – this giant mall is home to a multitude of department stores, highstreet chains, designer jewellery brands and a 12-screen cinema. Budding artists should look out for the Community Arts Market, which is held on the first Friday of every month. From paintings to custom-made jewellery, it’s the place to be if you want to snap up works of art. Where: Dubai Festival City When: 10am to 10pm, Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu to Sat / Contact: 04 2325444

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for the new emperors

www.dewitt.ch

revolutionary by tradition

SHO P/ DUB A I S HO PPIN G F ESTIV A L

22 Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates 23 Mall of the Emirates 24 Balmain A/W ‘12 25, 26 & 27 Paul Smith A/W ‘12 28 Christian Louboutin

25 24

The Fashion Dome never ceases to amaze, with a multitude of designer brands all under one roof. Just make sure you wear comfy shoes... 26

Mall of the Emirates

27 28

When it comes to unique selling points, how about 22,500 square metres of real snow in the desert? That’s what you’ll find when you visit Mall of the Emirates, because this enormous retail retreat is home to Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s first indoor ski slope. For fun that doesn’t require a hat, scarf and gloves, visit the 14-screen cinema, or try out Magic Planet. The Fashion Dome never ceases to amaze, with a multitude of designer brands all under one roof. Just make sure you wear comfy shoes because you need a day to do it justice. Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, Umm Suqeim When: 10am to 10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu to Sat / Contact: 04 4099000

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PASSPORT TO GLAMOUR Travel in style with these elegant ensembles from the autumn/winter catwalks

Q P h o t o g r a p h y: j o s h u a j o r d a n / J e d r o o t s y n d i c at i o n

Fa sh ion / s hop

Cardigan, jumper, skirt and trousers all Louis Vuitton; earring Dior; bag HermĂ¨s; boots Surface To Air; luggage Louis Vuitton

Coat and bag Ralph Lauren; top, trousers and boots all HermĂ¨s; earrings Dior; luggage Louis Vuitton Opposite page: Jacket, trousers, shirt, tie and bag all Miu Miu; earring Dior

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Cardigan, jumper, skirt and boots all VĂŠronique Leroy; earring Dior

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Coat Tommy Hilfiger; Jeans Reiko; bag Kate Moss for Longchamp; shoes Mellow Yellow; luggage Louis Vuitton Opposite page: Dress and belt both Sonia Rykiel; boots Sergio Rossi

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Jacket and skirt John Galliano; bag HermĂ¨s; boots Minelli

THE DAWN OF TIME Concierge joins Breguet in Capri, Italy, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the wrist watch

Like many of historyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealthy and indulged royals, Queen Caroline of Naples was accustomed to fine things. She had an eye for beauty and was not afraid to spend vast sums of money in the pursuit of lovely possessions. It was this, no doubt, that drove the young Queen to commission a landmark item in the early 19 th century, one that still characterises the way we capture time today. Queen Caroline is not a dominant figure in European history, but she does have several claims to fame that keep her in modern memory. Not least of these was her relation to one of the most powerful men of the period, Napoleon Bonaparte. She was his youngest sister and, though no match against the charms of her elder sibling, Pauline, she was said to have possessed the most beautiful complexion in France.

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Commentators described her skin as resembling white satin when viewed through pink glass, but otherwise they reserved their compliments for Pauline, who also enjoyed the distinction of being her brother, the Emperor’s, favourite sibling. Unlike Pauline, Caroline’s colouring did not suit heavy brocades, sections and other fashionable adornments of the time and she seldom wore them. Perhaps this is why Caroline turned her attention to a new form of ornament that would unite her passion for extravagance with the innovative spirit of the era. One of the most eminent clock makers of the day was Abraham Louis-Breguet, whose reputation as one of the world’s greatest horologists and founder of the prestigious brand, Breguet, lives on. Caroline was a fervent admirer of Breguet, whose talent for combining technical brilliance with exquisite design had already made him a favourite in aristocratic circles. Over the course of their association, Caroline placed no less than 34 orders with Breguet, but in 1810 she had a slightly different request. Whether it was her idea or his suggestion will never be known, but between them Breguet and

Queen Caroline came up with a new kind of timepiece that would revolutionise timekeeping from that day forward. In the original order book which survives today in the Breguet archives, the entry details a “repeater in oblong form for a bracelet” quoted at a sum of 5,000 francs, an enormous amount of money at the time. It took Breguet two years to design and make the intricate piece, which was delivered to Caroline in 1812 with a bill for 4,800 francs, 200 francs below budget. Sadly, the landmark piece, a wrist watch widely believed to be the world’s first, is now lost. Records tells us that the watch was returned to the company twice for repairs, once in 1849 and then again in 1855. After this, the trail ends. By this point, Queen Caroline had been dead some 16 years, but the maintenance of the watch after her demise, presumably by one of her heirs, suggests that it retained more than usual value.

1 Self-winding Tourbillon with a five-day power reserve (previous page) 2 Reine de Naples earrings by Breguet 3 Reine de Naples ring by Breguet 4 Reine de Naples tiara by Breguet 5 Breguet register

Whether it was her idea or his suggestion will never be known, but between them Breguet and Queen Caroline came up with a new kind of timepiece that would revolutionise time-keeping from that day forward

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Breguet’s death also precedes the loss of the watch, but by the time he passed away on September 17, 1823 he had established a legacy that would last forever. Among his many contributions to the world of horology, Breguet provided automatic winding mechanisms, vital improvements to the balance spring and, most famously, the tourbillon, which has changed remarkably little from Breguet’s original designs and remains a highly sought-after feature in premium and collectors’ watches to this day. His remarkable designs earned him a great many honours, not least an extremely distinguished client list, which reads like a who’s who of the day. Louis XVI and Louis XVIII of France, George IV of England, Alexander I of Russia, Napoleon Bonaparte and the first Duke of Wellington are among the many well-known, public figures who commissioned a timepiece from the talented clock-maker.

W HE R E T O FIN D I T All pieces in the Reine de Naples collection are limited edition. To place an order, contact the Breguet boutique at Mall of the Emirates on 04 3951862 and The Dubai Mall on 04 3398756.

6 Reine de Naples anniversary special edition watch 7 Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples

Breguet also proved himself indispensable in scientific and military circles. In 1815, he was appointed as official chronometer-maker to the French Navy and the following year he became a member of the French Academy of Sciences before being presented with the Chevalier of the Legion of Honour by Louis XVIII. In addition, his name is one of just 72 inscribed on the Eiffel Tower. Impressive as these and his many other accolades are, to most people Breguet’s most resounding achievement remains the invention of the wrist watch. Before this, watches were large, cumbersome devices, worn first around the neck as pendants and then carried in pockets or special containers. This year marks the 200 th anniversary of the wrist watch Breguet designed for Queen Caroline and the brand has been celebrating the milestone with a travelling exhibition around the world. In October, a gala dinner was held in the luxurious Capri Palace Hotel on the Italian island of Capri to toast the bicentennial of the famed first wrist watch. Concierge was among guests invited by the brand to visit the majestic former residence of Queen Caroline, the Reggia di Capodimonte in Naples. In this grand setting, surrounded by banners emblazoned with the famous Breguet logo, we gathered to see the new Queen of Naples Collection and raise our glasses to the memory of Abraham Louis Breguet and his revolutionary contribution to horology.

The Queen of Naples’ collection Ten years ago, Breguet unveiled the Queen of Naples’ collection – a series of luxurious timepieces inspired by the original design of the watch that Abraham Louis Breguet created for Queen Caroline. The launch of the prize piece, however, was saved for the anniversary celebrations last year, when the breathtaking Reine de Naples special anniversary model was unveiled during a press conference held in Queen Caroline’s palace. Not content to stop with the watch, Breguet has developed an entire jewellery set to honour the occasion with necklace, tiara, earrings and ring to match, priced at a total of 750,000 Swiss francs (approx US$818,000). Purchased individually, the Reine de Naples special anniversary watch costs 200,000 Swiss francs (approx US$218,000). A total of 233 brilliant-cut diamonds and 303 blue sapphires, each hand-picked to create the perfect colour gradation, illuminate the dial and more diamonds adorn the case, bezel and clasp. The self-winding mechanical movement features a silicon balance spring and a handoscillating weight in 18-karat gold.

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23/12/2012 10:48

Discover W here art meets histor y

After sampling the delights of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern attractions, head to the Creek for a sense of what it was like in times gone by. Wander past traditional wind tower houses and explore a maze of alleyways in the restored Bastikiya quarter, which dates back to the 1890s. The area also houses many small art galleries, including the popular Basta Art CafĂŠ. Contact: 04 3536233.

In the FRAME Capture striking shots of Dubai with our photographer’s guide to the city’s most iconic landmarks

Q Concierge is a magazine that has become renowned for its stunning photography. From aerial shots of Palm Jumeirah to rustic images of ‘old Dubai’, there isn’t much that our talented team hasn’t caught on camera. Undoubtedly, Dubai is a remarkable city and with so many iconic vistas, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to taking pictures. However, without the knowledge and expertise it’s sometimes difficult to capture the drama of this mesmerising emirate. Here Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh has compiled a collection of his favourite Dubai images and shares a few pearls of wisdom on how to take similarly striking shots.

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PH PH OO TO TO GRA GRA PHI PHI C Csc S POT e n e S / DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER /PHO TO GRAP H IC S c ene s

Burj Al Arab Location: Umm Suqeim 3 What to expect: Built in the style of a billowing sail, Burj Al Arab soars to a height of 321 metres and is one of Dubai’s most wellknown landmarks. Best vantage point: Costa Coffee at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. From here you can not only capture the famous icon, but also several other beautiful examples of Arabian architecture in the vicinity. Photographer’s top tip: Visit mid-afternoon for the best lighting. During the evening Burj Al Arab is illuminated by choreographed lights, which makes for an additional fantastic photo opportunity.

Burj Khalifa Location: Downtown Dubai What to expect: The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa stands at 828 metres high and is home to residential apartments, commercial space and the Armani Hotel Dubai. Best vantage point: To photograph the record-breaking giant take your position in the pedestrianised area by The Dubai Fountain.

A ground-upwards composition from next to Fernando Botero’s famous Horse sculpture is a popular spot, while the bridge across Burj Lake also provides a strong vantage point. Photographer’s top tip: A wide-angle lense makes it possible to take a landscape shot to really capture the magic of Burj Khalifa. If you don’t have this equipment you can always take a portrait shot.

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B O R N

B Y

PA S S I O N

AMADEO ® FLEURIER Ø R E V E R S E D H A N D - F I T T I N G 7 - DAY TO U R B I L L O N

B OV E T F L E U R I E R

SWITZERLAND

FOUNDING MEMBER OF THE QUALITY FLEURIER CERTIFICATION AND PARTNER OF THE FONDATION DE LA HAUTE HORLOGERIE

B OV E T. C O M

F U L LY I N T E G R AT E D C O N V E R T I B L E CA S E

DIS C O VER /PHO TO GRAP H IC S c ene s

Sheikh Zayed Road Location: Dubai’s main artery, this busy highway stretches from the Trade Centre roundabout to the border of Abu Dhabi running parallel to the coastline. What to expect: The phenomenal rate of development in Dubai has seen the skyline flourish and some of the city’s most striking buildings can be found along this iconic stretch of road. Highlights include the distinctive Jumeirah Emirates Towers in the shape of two equilateral triangles and the Al Yaquob Tower – known as the ‘Big Ben’ of Dubai – which is currently under construction. Best vantage point: Due to its length, there are plenty of locations from which to photograph Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR) and its striking structures, although our photographer recommends Zabeel Park, located at the Creek end of SZR. Photographer’s top tip: Try and include some leaves and foliage in the foreground (see previous page). Or, for views on the move, take the train from the Al Jafiliya Metro Station heading towards Jebel Ali. A gold class ticket buys you a seat in the front carriage so you can snap as you go.

There are plenty of locations from which to photograph Sheikh Zayed Road and its striking structures. For views on the move, take the train from the Al Jafiliya Metro Station heading towards Jebel Ali

Dubai Marina Harbour Location: Dubai Marina What to expect: Completely manmade, this chic marina development features a luxury hotel, a yacht club, a shopping mall and elegant residential apartments, but one of the most scenic parts of the bay is the harbour itself. Home to dozens of luxury yachts and speedboats, as well as a string of cafés and restaurants, visitors can enjoy soaking up the cosmopolitan and vibrant atmosphere. Best vantage point: The pedestrianised Dubai Marina Walk, which stretches seven kilometres around the harbour, is ideal for exploring the different views with a camera in hand. Photographer’s top tip: When setting up the shot, aim to get the yachts coming in from one side and part of the walkway in the other. This will ensure you capture all that’s best about the destination, in one frame.

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24/12/2012 12:24

It’s more than just a city. It’s intriguing Abu Dhabi.

SHEIKH ZAyED GRAND MOSQUE

EMIRATES PALACE

ISLAND BOAT TOURS

FROM SOUK TO MALL

FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

Be moved by the wonder of this architectural treasure which can house over 40,000 worshippers.

Experience ultimate luxury at one of the world’s most opulent hotels.

Explore the natural beauty of the Corniche as you drift along clear seas on a relaxing cruise boat.

Seek out a bargain at traditional markets or cut a dash in a modern mall.

Feel the 240kph adrenaline rush of the world’s fastest roller coaster.

yAS LINKS ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI FALCON HOSPITAL

OPEN-TOP BUS TOUR

MANARAT AL SAADIyAT

DINE AT MEZLAI

Take on the challenge of Yas Links Abu Dhabi - the region’s first links course.

Learn more about the UAE’s national bird and try your hand at the traditional sport of falconry at this state-of-the-art facility.

All aboard for this tour of the UAE capital with commentary in any one of eight languages.

Experience Abu Dhabi’s arts exhibition centre on Saadiyat Island.

Head to Emirates Palace for a taste of Emirati cuisine fine dining style.

Explore a city built on tradition and inspired by innovation. Where you can lose yourself in age-old hospitality and marvel at the wonder that is Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.

Discover more. www.visitabudhabi.ae or call 800 555

DIS C O VER /PHO TO GRAP H IC S c ene s

The Dubai Fountain Location: Downtown Dubai. What to expect: Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, the dancing fountain is the tallest in the world, even surpassing the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas. Free to watch, this marvel of architectural excellence performs at 1pm and 1.30pm and then every 30 minutes from 6 to 11pm accompanied by music.

Best vantage point: The Dubai Mall terrace is a good spot. In particular, Kinos Café within the Kinokuniya book store on level 2 of the mall provides magnificent views. Photographer’s top tip: Use a tripod. It will keep the shot steady and combat the movement of the water. Include people in the foreground as this will add depth to the overall picture.

Use a tripod for this photograph. It will keep the shot steady and combat the movement of the water. Include people in the foreground to add depth to the picture

Dubai Creek Location: Deira What to expect: The emirate’s most historic attraction, Dubai Creek is a hive of activity with water taxis and traditional wooden dhows sailing up and down its 14-kilometre stretch every day. Best vantage point: Al Seef Road, the docking area adjacent to Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek is an effective location for capturing the essence of the Creek on camera. Photographer’s top tip: If you have the time, hire a water taxi and shoot from the water.

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24/12/2012 12:38

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BURJ KHA L I FA / DIS COVE R

REACHING new heights Standing at 828 metres tall, Burj Khalifa is a sight to behold. Concierge looks beyond the awe-inspiring façade of the world’s most mesmerising tower

Q If you ever lose your bearings in Dubai, don’t fret. A quick glance at the city skyline puts things in perspective. Like a symbolic compass rising up from the vast landscape, Burj Khalifa is a guiding light, beckoning all who look to it back to the centre of the city. It is no exaggeration to say that this soaring example of architectural excellence is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Indeed, in January 2010 (eight years after excavation work began) thousands of people gathered in Downtown Dubai to watch Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, inaugurate the world’s tallest tower. Standing at 828 metres tall, it shattered the previous record by 320 metres and dazzled further when a dramatic firework display heightened its soaring beauty.

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DIS C O VER /B URJ KHA LIF A

The final height of the building was a closely guarded secret, with even the engineers admitting they did not know how tall the tower would eventually be

Realising the dream While it is a breathtaking sight, to truly understand the magnificence of Burj Khalifa it’s important to return to the beginning, where bold thinking and solid science transformed a dream into reality. For example, before work even began, the feasibility of the project needed to be analysed. How to construct a tower, a whopping 320 metres taller than its closest rival was no small feat of engineering. The architects and construction teams were in unchartered territory and many factors had to be taken into account and tested – from the effect of the wind to the change in air pressure and temperature at altitude. Shaped at the base to resemble the hymenocallis desert flower, Burj Khalifa has a Y-shaped structure to provide greater stability. The final height of the building was a closely guarded secret, with even the engineers admitting they did not know how tall the tower would eventually be. “We weren’t sure how high we could go,” said Bill Baker of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the building’s

structural engineer. “It was kind of an exploration... a learning experience.” As building work progressed, Burj Khalifa became the world’s tallest building in 2007 and still the construction continued. News emerged that it would be at least 700 metres tall and few even considered that 800 metres would be possible. At the height of construction, more than 12,000 workers from 100 countries were on site every day. In total, 22 million man hours went into creating the tower. The results are there for all to see and for the select few to savour. At the base of Burj Khalifa is the Armani Hotel Dubai, which takes up floors from concourse level to level eight, as well as two higher floors – levels nine to 16 also house the luxurious Armani Residencies. Between floors 45 to 108, private residences enjoy fabulous views of the city’s skyline, from the world’s most exclusive address. Most of the remaining floors are used for corporate suites, with the notable exceptions being the fine-dining restaurant At.mosphere and the observation deck.

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DIS C O VER /B URJ KHA LIF A

Located on level 124 and with 360-degree panoramic views, this observation deck not only provides stunning vistas, but also an insight into the construction of the entire city

Room with a view Dubai is a jaw-dropping city with many landmark buildings and developments to admire. Now you can see them all from one place – At the Top. Located on level 124 and with 360-degree panoramic views, this observation deck not only provides stunning vistas, but also an insight into the construction of the entire city as well as the tower in which you are standing. The journey begins on the Lower Ground level of The Dubai Mall (the world’s largest shopping complex at the base of Burj Khalifa). From this reception area, a travelator trip takes you through the emirate’s recent history. It’s then time to enter the super-swift high-speed elevator, which travels at a rate of 10 metres per second all the way to At the Top. Throughout the journey, visitors are entertained by a multi-media presentation of the exotic history of Dubai and the marvel that is Burj Khalifa. Once at your destination, special binoculars allow you to spot Dubai’s famous sights below, as well as provide a virtual journey through time, showing the city as it used to be. Tours generally last an hour, but visitors can take their time and enjoy the experience. Souvenirs, to add to the unforgettable memories of this manmade marvel that you’ll take away with you, are available at the gift shop.

At t h e T o p Tickets for immediate entry to At the Top are AED400 per person for all ages. Reserved admission tickets allow you to book an allocated date and time and cost AED100 for adults, AED75 for children aged four to 12 years old and free for children up to three. Opening times are Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing. For more information, Call 04 8888124.

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23/12/2012 11:02

DIS C O VER / TO URIS T TRA IL

GREEN ZONE

Take a stroll through Creekside Park, ride in a cable car and watch dolphins and seals at play

Surrounded by undulating dunes and vast open spaces, Dubai is a truly exotic desert destination. Originally springing from the rolling sandbanks of the Arabian Desert, it is also a city of contrasts with an assortment of surroundings. Skyscrapers, manmade islands and plush five-star resorts add urban enchantment, but while the city is famed for its modern architecture and developments, there is a variety of verdant parklands that make up the diverse landscape.

Rock gardens, fountains and beach terrain add to the palatial landscape and al fresco diners can often be seen picnicking under the trees or cooking at one of the many barbecue stations 1&2 Creekside Park

Situated on the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek, Creekside Park is one of the most popular green spaces in the emirate. While highways and high-rises encircle the park, visitors are transported into an oasis of calm when they pass through the gates. As you may expect, Creekside Park is abundant with greenery. Like most green areas in the city, a large amount of water is used daily to maintain the vegetation and the result is 280 types of trees and flowers planted over 96 hectares of rolling lawns. In addition, rock gardens, fountains and beach terrain add to the palatial landscape and al fresco diners can often be seen picnicking under the trees or cooking

at one of the many barbecue stations. Creekside Park also offers a variety of fun activities for families. A cable car provides impressive views of Dubai Creek and a ticket for the 15-minute ride can be purchased for AED25. Meanwhile, an 18-hole mini golf course, an amphitheatre and a playground are amusing attractions for young visitors. Those seeking a more energetic experience can hire bicycles for AED30 per hour. There is also the Dubai Dolphinarium (dubaidolphinarium.ae), which houses trained bottlenose dolphins and four seals that perform tricks and dances for an audience capacity of 1,250. Contact: 04 3367633 for more information.

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24/12/2012 12:55

Fly to Ireland from

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experience Uplif ting adventure

There are many ways to experience the Arabian Desert, but none as awe-inspiring as by hot air balloon. Set off early to catch the sunrise and glide through the air and over undulating dunes. Have your camera ready to capture camels, Bedouin farms and the stunning landscape. Contact: Balloon Adventures Emirates on 04 2854949.

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23/12/2012 14:01

S E V E N E MI RA T E S / E XPE R IE NCE

expanding horizons While Dubai has a lot to offer visitors, the surrounding regions are equally mesmerising. Join Concierge on a journey of discovery across the United Arab Emirates

With its multicultural population, record-breaking structures and vibrant atmosphere, Dubai is probably the most famous of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let that stop you, however, from exploring outside the emirate as there is a varietey of unique attractions to discover. Whether you want to see iconic landmarks up close, such as Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, take an adventurous drive around the stunning mountain range in Hatta, or explore a UNESCO World Heritage site in Al Ain, visitors can find all this and more just beyond the borders.

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HATTA: Heritage in the hills Hatta is renowned for its landscape and solitude, offering a peaceful alternative to the city. An hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive from Dubai, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great day trip and has many more attractions than first meets the eye. The last stop in the UAE before reaching the border with Oman, a mere 10 kilometres away, Hatta is a point of entry and exit for residents and visitors alike. The town is set in a dramatic location at the foot of the looming Hajar mountains with a picture-postcard scene at every turn. One of the major points of interest is the old fort, which dates back to 1790 and the heritage village that provides an authentic insight into local life before the discovery of oil.

1 Hatta (previous page) 2 Hatta 3 Iceland Water Park, Ras Al Khaimah 4 Ras Al Khaimah

Ras al Khaimah has a rich heritage showcased in its historical sites, forts and abandoned villages. Excavations have revealed a history dating back to 5000 BCE

RAS AL KHAIMAH: Weekend getaway A rugged landscape bordered by lofty mountains and sand-swept desert, Ras Al Khaimah is an action-adventure emirate with an exciting range of activities, from the sedentary to the adrenaline-fuelled. The emirate has a rich heritage showcased in its historical sites, forts and abandoned villages. Excavations have revealed a history dating back to 5000 BCE. A popular place for sun-seekers and weekend getaways, Ras Al Khaimah is home to a number of five-star resorts, including The Cove Rotana and the indulgent desert resort Banyan Tree Al Wadi, which also has 32 beachside villas for those who prefer a seaside stay. Adventure seekers will also enjoy Iceland Water Park with its 20 thrilling Arctic-themed rides and attractions.

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S E V E N E MI RA T E S / E XPE R IE NCE

AL AIN: The oasis city The birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed, the first president of the UAE, Al Ain is the second major city in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and touches the border with Oman at the enclave of Buraimi. Boasting the region’s largest oasis, Al Ain is the greenest city in the UAE with shrub-filled parks, palm-lined highways and colourful flowers in the cooler months. The city is also home to one of the UAE’s highest mountains, Jebel Hafeet, which is easily accessible via a 14-kilometre road that

scales the peak. The summit offers 360-degree panoramic views over the city and surrounding desert and there’s a hotel below, an ideal location for a mountain-top lunch. Al Ain also boasts a profusion of old forts – some restored and some in ruins, but still picture-perfect – as well as a camel market, central souk, hugely popular zoo and hot springs. Many of the city’s historical sites have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List to preserve them for generations to come.

5 Al Ain Zoo 6 Palm Garden, Al Ain 7 Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI: Capital attraction

Abu Dhabi city is the capital of the UAE and the largest emirate in terms of land mass. Ninety minutes’ drive from Dubai, the city is also home to the Federal National Council and is known for its abundance of embassies and oil companies. A more sedate pace of life makes navigating the city a pleasure and it is home to modern malls, green parks and first-class restaurants and hotels. The city’s seafront Corniche is one of the most popular attractions for visitors and residents and the multi-million-dollar Emirates Palace hotel is a worldrenowned luxury destination, dominating the skyline at the far end of the seaside stretch. Other top attractions include the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is open to non-Muslims and Yas Island, home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, a links golf course and the Yas Marina Circuit, which annually hosts the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The emirate is undergoing rapid development, especially on its profusion of offshore islands soon to house cultural attractions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim museums over the coming years.

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EXPE R IENCE /SEVEN EM IRA TES

8 Fujairah Fort 9 Fujairah 10 Blue Souk, Sharjah

FUJAIRAH: East coast adventure Fujairah is renowned for its golden sandy beaches washed by the waters of the Gulf of Oman. An emirate on the cusp of development, Fujairah is still a peaceful retreat from hectic city life, fronted by an expanse of ocean with the impressive Hajar mountain range as the backdrop. Populated by low-rise buildings and casual, cosy restaurants and hotels, this is an idyllic spot and a world away from the frenetic buzz of Dubai. Further along the coast are five-star beach resorts, making it a popular weekend spot for city escapes and visiting tourists. The emirate is also a magnet for scuba diving fans thanks to its numerous coral reefs, which are a haven for marine life on the east coast, including sharks, turtles and rays. There are several historical sites to see, including a 300-year-old fort, the oldest mosque in the UAE at Al Bidayah and there are still the remains of ancient watch towers dotted around, easily reached by car, bike or on foot. Hot springs and waterfalls are hidden in the mountain scenery and visitors are advised to explore the area only with a licensed tour company or an experienced and well-equipped local contact. The unusual sport of bull butting (where two bulls pit their strength against each other) can still be seen every Friday close to the city centre. On the trip back be sure to stop off at the Friday Market (open every day) near Masafi for fruit, vegetables and even carpets.

Dedicated shoppers must pencil in a visit to the famous Blue Souk (Central Market), which houses around 600 shops in two wings. Its distinctive architectural style with Islamic influences is a major city landmark SHARJAH: City of culture The emirate of Sharjah is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Dubai – traffic permitting. A word of warning though – avoid the Dubai-Sharjah highway during rush hour or you could find yourself on the road for an hour or more. Dedicated shoppers must pencil in a visit to the famous Blue Souk (Central Market), which houses around 600 shops in two wings. Its distinctive architectural style with Islamic influences is a major city landmark. Traditional purchases from the souk include brass coffee pots, Oriental carpets and hand-carved furniture. Another retail attraction is the wonderful Souk Al Arsah in the heart of the restored museum district. One of the emirate’s oldest souks, it was renovated in traditional style incorporating shells, coral, wood and palm leaves. Items on sale include silver jewellery, coffee pots, wooden chests, spices and perfume. The city’s cultural arts and entertainment hub is Al Qasba. Its waterfront setting is reminiscent of Venetian waterways and there is an excellent choice of local stores selling everything from gifts to clothes, restaurants, theatre shows and its pièce de résistance, the Eye of the Emirates big wheel. In 1998, UNESCO named Sharjah – which means ‘rising sun’ – the cultural capital of the Arab world in recognition of its commitment to art, culture and heritage preservation.

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Y o u ’ l l f i n d a w a Y. Meydan Beach. The new exclusive beach experience you ’ll do anything to be a part of.

CHill dinE RElaX To enquire about membership or day guest access, make a reservation at our signature italian restaurant Giannino or for guestlist to Café del Mar dubai, simply call us on + 971 44 333 777 or visit www.meydanbeach.com like us on facebook.com/Meydanbeach

B E l o n G.

ease into the new year When the excesses of the holiday season are all too apparent, a reviving spa session is the order of the day

Q In keeping with the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position as a world-class destination, Dubai boasts a luxurious portfolio of acclaimed spas and relaxation retreats, with an A to Z of treatments designed to sooth all manner of stress and strain or simply provide a welcome escape from the rigours of everyday life. A visit to any one of the dozens of luxurious spas in the city will throw up a wealth of treatments, from centuries-old Ayurvedic cures to high-tech rejuvenation treats. During the month of January many visitors are struggling after the indulgences of the holiday season, which means reviving pampering sessions are the order of the day. Over the next few pages, Concierge has compiled a few of the best treatments designed to reinvigorate body and mind.

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The Spa, Fairmont Dubai

S PA S / E XP E R IE NCE

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The best time to

The sounds. The people. The confetti that filled the sky. Joy was contagious. A street parade to celebrate being there, being alive, simply being happy. The band’s music brought the Old Town walls to life. You couldn’t help but see, hear and feel her enchantment. In her father’s arms, she was free.

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S PA S / E XP E R IE NCE

Amara Spa

Diamond Ceremony Nestled on the banks of Dubai Creek, the Amara Spa is a true sanctuary of luxury and wellness. For those feeling exhausted after the pleasure-seeking party month of December, the Diamond Ceremony is a must. The treatment begins with an inhalation of specifically blended essential oils, which help to clear pores and freshen the airwaves. Next up, an aromatic back massage helps to relax muscle tension, a common side-effect of fatigue. A recharging gel body mask is then applied. Rich in minerals and plant essences, this fragrant blend energises tired skin. The final phase of the treatment is an eye massage with chilled lava stone. As well as a lesson in relaxation, the 120-minute session helps to restore balance, transforming skin from dry and dull to bright and beautiful. Where: Park Hyatt Dubai When: Daily 9am to 10pm How much: AED820 / Contact: 04 6021234

B/Attitude Spa

Lymphatic Drainage Therapeutic Massage Having only just celebrated its first anniversary in September 2012, B/Attitude Spa is currently one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-kept secrets. An Asianinspired wellbeing oasis set in the heart of Dubai Marina, clients are transported from the everyday frenzy of the busy metropolis to a tranquil escape as soon as they pass through its doors. To eliminate toxins and provide immunity with a much-needed lift, book in for the Lymphatic Drainage Therapeutic Massage. The 60-minute treatment is carried out by a specialist practitioner who, after a consultation, will determine clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs. The gentle massage uses very light pressure and long gentle rhythmic strokes in the direction of lymph nodes. Because of its ability to rid the body of toxins, lymphatic drainage is the perfect pampering session for those feeling the after-effects of Christmas. Where: Grosvenor House Dubai / When: Daily 9.15am to 8.45pm How much: AED550 / Contact: 04 4022200

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EXPE R IENCE/SPA S

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, DIFC

Aromatherapy Associates Facial Before heading to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to browse through your iPod for some tunes, because this five-star sanctuary allows the option of choosing your own background music. Another example of outstanding service is the Aromatherapy Associates Facial. Beginning with a manual cleansing treatment, this scientific facial brings into play the Aromatherapy Associates Radiance Lift System. The first of its kind in the Middle East, an innovative bio-lifting machine uses high-frequency currents on the skin in order to lift and plump. A range of settings can be used, which results in a totally bespoke facial for your skin. Working in tandem with antioxidant-rich ingredients, this pampering session helps to reactivate healthy cell function and produces visibly improved natural radiance. Where: The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC / When: 11am to 8pm How much: AED450 / Contact: 04 3722222

The first of its kind in the Middle East, an innovative bio-lifting machine uses high-frequency currents in order to lift and plump. A range of settings can be used, which results in a bespoke facial

The Spa

The Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience This 60-minute treatment releases tension held in every part of the body, leaving the recipient feeling deeply relaxed and recharged. An inhalation kicks off the session. With immediate antiviral effects, a blend of eucalyptus and peppermint helps to strengthen the immune system, while reducing stuffiness. After the inhalation, a carefully pressured massage, incorporating Swedish, neuromuscular and lymphatic drainage techniques, helps to improve circulation. The essential oils used in the massage contain pine, tea tree, eucalyptus and peppermint, which warm the muscles and help to break down toxins. Where: Fairmont Dubai When: Daily 10am to 10pm How much: AED439 / Contact: 04 3325555

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41009 BD Dinner Ad for Concierge Dubai Jan Issue(OL).indd 1

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Taste A rtistic f lair

Conveniently located along the popular promenade of Jumeirah Beach Residence at the chic Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Rococo is a must-visit high-end Italian eatery. Headed by Chef Thomas Pendarovski, guests are invited to dine on a selection of sophisticated dishes infused with the unique French flair of this contemporary hotel. Contact: 04 4484848.

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DELICIOUS DEBUTS With fine-dining menus and world-class culinary talent, Concierge rounds up the best new dining venues

Q Uniting an array of world cultures and attracting thousands of visitors every day, Dubai is a destination that has become famous for its wide-ranging restaurants and varied cuisines. A wealthy desert playground, visitors come from far and wide to sample the city’s delectable menus, many of which are offered in Dubai’s five-star hotels. Carefully crafted by some of the greatest chefs in worldwide cuisine, including Gary Rhodes, Pierre Gagnaire and Nobu Matsuhisa, Dubai is now regarded as one of the greatest gastronomic destinations on the planet with new luxury restaurants launching regularly. In the last six months a variety of culinary craftsmen have set up shop on these shores, further enhancing the choice. Britain’s Marco Pierre White has brought his own Londonthemed concept to Bur Dubai with the opening of Titanic at Meliá Dubai. Meanwhile the Italian fine-dining scene received a boost with the opening of Roberto’s at DIFC. Also add to the equation the arrival of Japanese restaurant Tomo at Raffles Dubai, Brazilian hotspot Fogueira at Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence and high-end steak house Blue Flame at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel. Concierge has taken the liberty of rounding up all the latest additions to the Dubai culinary scene and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Fogueira Restaurant & Lounge, Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach

N E W RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

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Roberto’s With Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) serving as a nesting ground for Dubai’s movers and shakers, there’s no shortage of chic eateries for an after-work rendezvous. New to the scene, Roberto’s combines an expansive lounge and balcony with two large dining areas. The man behind the venue is Roberto Rella, who opened BiCE in the Hilton Jumeirah 12 years ago and it’s clear that once again he has injected his artistic Italian flair throughout the venue. Floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the private balcony, offer stunning views of Dubai, while the décor inside is clean and minimalist. Offering both classic and modern Italian dishes, the menu also features signature mocktails that provide the perfect way to whet

your appetite. Then, opt for Mozzarella salad with ripe tomatoes, pink garlic balsamic vinaigrette and Taggiasca black olives – the secret, however, is to request Burrata instead of the buffalo mozzarella for a truly sensational taste. Where: DIFC When: Daily 8pm to midnight Try: Ossobuco Contact: 04 3860066

Mozzarella salad with ripe tomatoes, pink garlic balsamic vinaigrette and olives – the secret is to request Burrata instead of the buffalo mozzarella for a truly sensational taste

Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor at Meliá Dubai Beloved by over 500 million viewers across the world, Sanjeev Kapoor’s televised food show has secured his position as a master of Indian cuisine. As such, when luxury hotel chain Meliá opened its doors for the first time in the Middle East this year, Kapoor was an excellent fit for this contemporary and elegant brand. Catering to the carnivorous as well as the vegetarian, no guest will feel limited with the diverse selection on offer. We recommend the traditional pre-dinner treat of papadums studded with peppercorns. Next sample the delicious crab cake and fried scallop appetiser, fused with Arabic flavours of tabouleh and tomato chutney. Main course highlights include several ‘ghara’ dishes to pick from which are slow cooked in a clay pot to retain the delicate flavours of the spices. The lemongrass butter chicken delivers a true revelation with its wonderful combination of fresh and creamy flavours. With Indian food, the main event always lies in its savoury treats, but that said, the mascarpone phirni – like a rice pudding – for desert is well worth leaving room for. Where: Meliá Dubai When: Daily, noon to 3pm and 7 to 11pm Try: Lemongrass butter chicken / Contact: 04 3868111

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N E W RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

Tomo Tomo certainly holds its own as it carves out a spot among other high-flying Japanese eateries. Located on the 17th f loor of the super-stylish Raffles Hotel, guests are treated to a twinkling view of the city below courtesy of floor-to-ceiling windows and a chic open terrace. Here it’s a picturesque sight whether you’re passing by for sundowners or dining after dark. While the sleek, minimalist surroundings will no doubt impress, it’s the superior food that truly takes centre stage. Having had three decades to hone his Tokyo-taught culinary skills to a UAE audience, renowned Chef Takahashi ensures a menu that caters for the most discerning palette. Dine on an extensive selection of Eastern fare, from fresh-cut sashimi and traditional soups to delicately sweetened black cod and a tender range of high-end wagyu beef mains. Takahashi’s aim has always been to promote bona fide Japanese cuisine and culture and judging by the lively crowds of both the city’s local and visiting Japanese community, this one has clearly hit the mark of authenticity. Where: Raffles Dubai When: Daily 7 to 11pm Try: Fresh cut sashimi / Contact: 04 3248888

Fogueira Restaurant & Lounge Up until recently good Brazilian food has been lacking in Dubai. Fortunately all that changed a few months ago when five-star eatery Fogueira Restaurant & Lounge opened at Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence. The concept is quite simple – guests are served unlimited cuts of meat straight to their tables, complemented by a wide selection of salads, condiments and hot appetisers. With 15 types of meat cuts, including beef tenderloin, ribeye, strip loin, lamb kebabs and chicken drumsticks, the choices are endless. While the meat is the major draw card, the wide selection of tropical mixed salads is definitely a bonus and the hot appetisers, which include polenta, fried banana and freshly baked cheese bread definitely win plaudits for authenticity. Where: Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach When: Daily 7 to 11pm Try: Caramelised pineapple Contact: 04 4398888

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Blue Flame Few things satisfy a meat-lover’s palate like a juicy steak, which is why steak houses are among the most popular restaurants in Dubai. The latest addition to the protein pile is Blue Flame, which is located at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel in Garhoud. From the moment of arrival, guests find themselves surrounded by a sleek modern décor crafted from an icy blend of blue tones combined with intricate design details that simply oozes sophistication. Fortunately, the menu follows suit with a mouthwatering selection of dishes that are enough to send even the most

discerning foodies to seventh heaven. From rump to ribeye, striploin to sirloin, it’s all on the menu. That said, if you’re not in the mood for red meat, the seafood is also rather impressive and the seafood papillote stands out as one of the most delicious alternatives on the menu, as does the snapper, which comes poached to perfection. The sweet selection is just as impressive with scrumptious creations such as the Pliable Cheesecake served with honeycomb and cinnamon jelly. Where: Jumeirah Creekside Hotel When: Daily 7 to 11pm Try: American Angus / Contact: 04 2308555

The menu follows suit with a mouthwatering selection of dishes that are enough to send even the most discerning foodies to seventh heaven. From rump to ribeye, strip loin to sirloin, it’s all on the menu

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MILK MONITOR The wider world is only just waking up to the health benefits of camel milk, but in the UAE, this highly nutritious beverage is a traditional dietary staple

Q Not so long ago, the basic Emirati diet consisted fundamentally of dates and camel milk. For Bedouin desert dwellers, little else was readily available. Then, oil was discovered in the region, the UAE was formed and the arid, desert landscape rapidly transformed with the arrival of international restaurant and supermarket chains. The traditional Bedouin way of life changed and with it went the former emphasis on local food sources. With diminished demand, camel milk faded from the culinary scene and entered into a long hiatus. Then, around two years ago, interest began to pick up as people reawakened to its nutritional benefits, leading to an unprecedented demand, according to April Hobbs at Al Ain Dairy. “In the last 18 months especially, camel milk has seen quite a resurgence. Both the media and the general public have become fascinated with the general subject. There is a certain novelty value that has captured the imagination of expats, but what seems to have sparked this surge in interest is the growing awareness of its nutritional qualities,” she explains. A quick glance at the nutritional profile of camel milk makes it easy to see how a simple diet was sufficient to keep Bedouin tribes healthy. With enough nutrients to sustain a person through the whole day, it is a rich source of proteins, vitamins and minerals while also being significantly lower in cholesterol than other forms of milk. In fact, from a health perspective, camel milk runs circles around the more commonly consumed cows’ milk. According to Hobbs, it is one of the most nutritious foods (or beverages) a person can consume, with 10 times more antiviral properties and three times more vitamin C than cows’ milk. According to Hobbs: “Camel milk is the closest to human mothers’ milk and our bodies literally thrive on it.” Its outstanding health credentials have landed camel milk on the World Health Organisation’s exclusive superfood list, alongside nutritional heavyweights like green tea and blueberries. Now, with its reputation growing, demand is spreading overseas to such an extent that camel farms are struggling to meet it.

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L OCA L FL A V OUR/ T A S T E

“Camel milk is in significant undersupply for the current demand, both globally and here in the UAE. The other challenge is the production. This type of milk farming is highly specialised and, while there are many small holdings and hobby farms around the world still milking by hand the old, traditional way, there are very few that are fully integrated vertical farms equipped for full production. The result of this is that supply cannot meet demand,” says Hobbs. It’s not just basic milk that consumers want either. As its popularity grows, people want to try new forms like camel-milk cheese, a product that has long baffled farmers’ attempts to create it, but is soon to be released in the UAE. Camel-milk ice cream will also make its UAE debut before long. Meanwhile, visitors can become involved in the craze for camel-milk products by trying camel milk chocolate, made by Al

Nassma or sipping on a Camelcino in the lobby lounge at Jumeriah at Etihad Towers. Alternatively, they can just pick up a bottle of camel milk at most larger supermarkets, where it is available in a range of flavours from rose, cardamom and saffron to chocolate, date and laban. Some people, Hobbs agrees, find camel milk to be something of an acquired taste so the flavoured varieties are there to provide an alternative way of reaping its health benefits. However, it’s not just the health benefits that make camels’ milk worth trying. From a visitor’s perspective, drinking a cup of camel milk in the UAE is like eating pizza in Italy or Haggis in Scotland – it’s a way to experience the local culture and get a taste of traditional dietary staples. As Hobbs states: “Visitors should try it simply because camel milk is such an important part of Emirati culture and history. Tasting it is an extension of the UAE experience.”

With enough nutrients to sustain a person through the whole day, it is a rich source of proteins, vitamins and minerals while also being significantly lower in cholesterol than other forms of milk

CAMEL CRAZE Other ways to enjoy a camel experience in the UAE include: Camel racing: Camel racing is the UAE’s national sport and, with the season currently underway, see them in action at Al Wathba race track in Abu Dhabi. Camel beauty contests: The country’s prettiest camels compete in this hotly contested competition held during Al Dhafra’s camel festival. Al Dhafra camel festival: If you visit in December make time to take in this annual festival, which offers an unparalleled taste of Emirati culture. Camel farm: There are plenty of camel farms around the UAE and some of the safari tours will stop off at one on the way for photo opportunities. Or just drive along some of the highways where drivers frequently have to stop for crossing camels.

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Barasti, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi

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BE A CHS I D E D I N I N G/ t a s t e

Shore SIDE As the weather cools, it’s time to head down to the sand for al fresco beach dining

Q There are few things more scenic than pristine white sand, lapping waves in delicate shades of turquoise and gently swaying palm trees bending in the breeze. This is the picture-postcard vista you can expect to see when you visit the idyllic coastline that runs along the west side of the emirate. It’s one of Dubai’s most mesmerising spots, enhanced only by the presence of a variety of five-star hotels which have taken prime position on the beachfront. Here, visitors can find an assortment of gourmet restaurants, which not only serve up a tantalising bill of fare, but also panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. For a real taste of what Dubai has to offer, take a sunset stroll along the beachfront and admire the views before heading to one of the many excellent restaurants that line this captivating stretch. Read on for some of Concierge’s favourite eateries in one of the city’s most vibrant locales.

The Beach Bar & Grill There are few places in the world where you can experience the bright lights of a buzzing city, but still enjoy complete calm and tranquility. The Beach Bar & Grill at One&Only Royal Mirage is one of them. Visit in the evening for dinner and enjoy a walk through the idyllic grounds of the One&Only Royal Mirage hotel. Utterly serene, this stroll sets the tone for the meal ahead. Whether dining indoors, out on the terrace or down in the private beach pavilions, the décor and ambience seamlessly blend casual with formal – so while the seating and table settings might be simple, the service and attention to detail is polished to perfection. Skillfully managed by British-born restaurateur Russell Wetson, everything about The Beach Bar & Grill oozes sophistication – from the view, which gives way to vistas of Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, to the well-conceived bill of fare. For a light starter, try the selection of Arabic mezze, consisting of hummous, fattoush, baba

ganoush, brilliant moutabel and an inventive Moroccan carrot salad – all served with labneh and pita bread. Another must-try is ‘The Beach’ platter. The restaurant’s sumptuous signature dish is served on a tray of crushed ice and the poached half Maine lobster, juicy prawns, smoked salmon, mud crab and oysters are perfect for sharing. For mains there is a winning selection of fish, seafood and meaty grills that should keep everyone content. Baked whole hammour is a popular choice, as are the prime cuts of fillet and sirloin from all corners of the globe. However, our favourite is the Portuguese seafood cataplana – a hearty stew of clams, mussels, prawns, scallops, crab and beef chorizo in a smoky, herby broth. With food this good, it’s easy to forget you are sitting on a stretch of sand with sparkling views over the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina’s towers behind. Beach dining bliss. Where: One&Only Royal Mirage When: Lunch from noon to 3.30pm and dinner from 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 3999999

Wavebreaker When you think of Dubai it’s usually skyscrapers and manmade islands that spring to mind, but while the city has grown upwards, there is a variety of time-honoured spots that have been enhanced by the emergence of ‘new’ Dubai. One of them is the Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, which enjoys a fabulous location at the heart of The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai’s coasthugging outdoor shopping and dining destination. One of the hotel’s top restaurants is Wavebreaker, a relaxed dining and drinking spot that ticks all the boxes. The dress code is beach chic, the menu is simple and the location is right next to the shore overlooking Palm Jumeirah. Busy by day serving the hotel’s pool-loving guests, at night the tempo drops to provide a welcome respite from hectic bars and stuffy restaurants, while the lush gardens surrounding the venue add a touch of tropical flavour. The menu is mainly made up of burgers, sandwiches and shisha and we recommend the spicy kofta meatballs, which are second to none. Quite a sprawling venue, Wavebreaker has ample dining tables and even a pool table for those who fancy a game. If you are looking to avoid the crowds on The Walk or fancy a post-beach quencher and some comfort food, Wavebreaker is just the place. Where: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah When: Noon to 10.30pm / Contact: 04 3182582

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La Veranda A pleasant trattoria located at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, La Veranda offers beachside cuisine with an Italian flavour. Since it first opened its doors in 2006, this Mediterranean-inspired eatery has been a firm favourite with families due to its laidback atmosphere, friendly vibe and exquisite outdoor views. While Dubai’s five-star eateries are usually identified by their complicated culinary creations, La Veranda takes a different approach, serving unfussy cuisine, but doing it with style. Generously topped pizzas are served alongside flavourful lasagnes and perfectly prepared salads. Relaxing views of luxury yachts moored in the adjacent marina are an added bonus to this very enjoyable, yet utterly chilled-out restaurant. Where: Jumeirah Beach Hotel When: Daily 11am to 11pm / Contact: 04 3480000

Weekends are a particularly busy affair at Barasti and the party gets started early with revellers enjoying sundowners from about 5pm onwards, so arrive early if you’re planning to secure a table

Barasti Other beach bars have come and gone over the years, yet it could be argued that none are as popular as this down-to-earth spot. Of course, the development of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence has no doubt helped, but Barasti has taken the whole concept of a laidback sundowner destination with a sideline in bar food and made it its own in Dubai. Weekends are a particularly busy affair at Barasti and the party gets started early with revelers enjoying sundowners from about 5pm onwards, so arrive early if you’re planning to secure a table. The atmosphere is bolstered by live DJs, theme nights and drinks promotions, which run throughout the week. On the food front, expect the expected, but with some five-star flourishes. For instance, the Barasti fish and chips comes with a tasty tarragon green pea purée. There are also a few healthy options, such as roasted zucchini and feta salad. Simply put, Barasti is fun, friendly and an essential Dubai destination for a casual evening out. Where: Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina When: 11am to 2am daily / Contact: 04 3993333

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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 DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 4361000

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10.30pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 MERCATO

04 3444161

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm. Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri noon to 10pm

04 5154000

04 3198999

Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BURJUMAN

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

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

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

A mix of brands caters to the needs of the entire family with stores such as Bhs, Camaeiu, Dorothy Perkins and Pumpkin Patch.

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3520222

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

04 3359999

A Renaissance-styled mall on Jumeirah Beach Road featuring a wide variety of brands such as Pandora, Armani Junior, Gant and Virgin Megastore. There is also a seven-screen cinema and a children's play area. Throughout the year Mercato also hosts various entertainment acts in the central area.

Downtown Dubai

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1 04 4099000

LAMCY PLAZA

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

GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

OASIS CENTRE

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

PALM STRIP

04 3461462

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 6 to 10pm Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1

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

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

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 Chloe (pictured). The mall is also home to Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski slope. For details visit malloftheemirates.com

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

04 3622222

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

1. Damas 2. Sand Art 3. Royal Fashion Men's Tailors 4&5. The Dubai Mall 6. Dubai Marina Mall 7. Madinat Jumeirah

THE DUBAI MALL

The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. In addition to over 1,000 shops, this mall is home to the world’s largest indoor gold souk, an Olympic-sized 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 high-end bridal store, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 5 to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1 TIMES SQUARE

04 3418020

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

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2

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t he gui d e / s hop

WAFI

04 3244555

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

Shoppers’ survival guide

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

800 6422

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: E3 SAHARA CENTRE

06 5316611

Dubai Festival City/Deira

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

Timings: Sun to Tue 10am to 10pm. Wed to Sat 10am to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya

AL GHURAIR CITY

04 2225222

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

Souks

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

04 2845555

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

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

10am to 10.30pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3

Timings: Noon to 7pm every second Friday of the month Metro: First Gulf Bank Map reference: C2

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

04 2954486

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

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

04 4285665

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 10am to 11pm. Fri 2pm to 11pm 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 1am Metro: Emirates Map reference: E2 DUBAI OUTLET MALL

04 4234666

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

Timings: Sat to Wed

10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3

LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB JAN13.indd 99

Some of Dubai’s malls are very big. To save time, pick up a map at the entrance so you can find the stores you want to visit quickly. In most malls similar outlets are grouped together. For a quiet and leisurely shopping experience, visit Dubai’s malls throughout the week to avoid the weekend crowds. When shopping in the traditional souks, be prepared to haggle. Vendors expect it. Before buying gold or visiting the Gold Souk, find out the current market price of gold from your hotel concierge to ensure that you do not pay over the odds. Some malls specialise in particular kinds of shopping, for example, home furnishings, luxury labels or high-street brands. Decide what you want from your shopping trip and pick the right mall for you.

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 7am to noon

and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square

Map reference: E1

Sold on

Gold

Dubai has long been associated with gold. The largest gold trading centre in the Middle East, the story began over a century ago when the emirate opened a modest marketplace by Dubai Creek. Following these humble beginnings, the souk grew to become one of the largest in the world. Today the souk has been modernised and while the haphazard shacks and oil lamps of yesteryear have been replaced by shiny shop faces and neon lights, this historic spot is still a tantalising introduction to the Arabian world.

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

KHAN MURJAN

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.

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

800 33232

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

Timings: Fri 10am to 8pm Map reference: E2

SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

050 4250543

04 3668888

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1

COvent garden market dubai

Artisans from across the emirate congregate at this market, located in The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, to sell their wares

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

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 Chloe BV, 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 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 Shopping Centre (04 3244555)

23/12/2012 11:34

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

GALLERY 76

pro art gallery

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

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

04 3444398

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

04 3468649 1X1 Art Gallery

04 3411287

Exhibits striking artwork that features in museums and international collections.

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm; Sat noon to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

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

GALLERY Isabelle Van Den Eynde

ART SAWA

04 3408660

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am

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

04 3235052

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

CARBON 12

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

CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY

the mojo gallery

04 3477388

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

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

A non-commercial contemporary art space where visitors can view and discuss local and international artists. The Pavillion includes two galleries, a restaurant and a shisha lounge.

lawrie shabibi

04 3469906

Closed Fri

the pavilion downtown dubai

04 4477025

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

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Map reference: D2

Timings: Sun to Thu

04 3411367

MAJLIS GALLERY

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

THE THIRD LINE

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

marsam mattar

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

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

04 3470209

meem gallery

04 3477883

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat. Map reference: B2

traffic

XVA GALLERY

04 3585117

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

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

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: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Sat 12 to 11pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Thu 11am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: E1

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LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB JAN13.indd 100

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

04 3230909

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

1. Spice souk 2. Bastakiya wind tower 3. Dubai skyline 4. Majlis Gallery 5. Dhow racing

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

04 4250400

OPERA GALLERY

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 3988331

Timings: Sat to Wed 8am to 6pm. Thu 8am to 2pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D2

GREEN ART GALLERY

04 3536233

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Map reference: A1

Located in The Dubai Mall, this small art gallery and framing shop displays thoughtprovoking works by a range of Middle Eastern artists.

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

04 3469305

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2

This modern gallery on The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence has different exhibitions every month and showcases a variety of artworks by local artists.

the Art source

04 2856972

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

10am to 6pm, Sat 11am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 2pm to 9pm Map reference: D1

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

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

04 4257888

04 3450900

24/12/2012 12:44

royalfashion.biz

Dubai’s premium bespoke tailoring house

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Opp. Theatre Box Office (04-368 6192) • Jumeirah Road Opp. Pizza Hut (04-394 4844) Pyramid Building Near Burjuman Center (04-396 8282) • Jumeirah Beach Hotel Mezzanine Level (04-348 6878) • Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) “C” Goldcrest Executive Near Al Mas Tower & Bonnington Hotel (04-443 8766)

• •

| F R E E T R A N S P O R T AVA I L A B L E F O R V I S I T O R S |

dis c o ver/the guide

City tours

CREEK CRUISES

04 3939860

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

Camel facts

culture

Timings: 7.30pm to 10pm Guide price: From AED175 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 AED1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hour-long tours AED3,060 per person 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, the 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

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

04 3666546

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.

Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

Guide price: AED145 adults; AED95 children (3-11 years); AED450 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.

Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 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 from 10am 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 doubledecker 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)

04 3536666

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

Contrary to popular belief, a camel does not store water in its hump. It is in fact a mound of fatty tissue from which the animal draws energy when food is scarce. A camel can last five to seven days with little or no food and water and can lose a quarter of its body weight without impairing its physical abilities. Although camels can withstand severe dehydration, a large animal can drink as much as 100 litres (21 gallons) in 10 minutes. Such an amount would kill another mammal, but the camel’s unique metabolism enables it to store the water in its bloodstream. Camel’s milk is much more nutritious than cow’s milk. It is lower in fat and lactose and higher in potassium, iron and vitamin C. Drunk fresh, the warm frothy liquid is heavy and sweet. The Bedouin name for the one-hump dromedary or Arabian camel is ‘Ata Allah’ which translates to ‘God’s gift’.

Timings: Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide price: Breakfast AED60, lunch AED70. Reservations essential Map reference: E1

Museums

A slice of life If you’re interested in learning more about the Emirati way of life, head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) and sit in on a cultural breakfast or lunch. Visitors can chat freely with locals on any topic they wish, be it modernisation, traditional dress or women’s rights. Enjoy a selection of traditional Emirati dishes laid out on the floor, including khobbs khameer (bread), lugamat (sweet sticky doughnuts served with date syrup) and balaleet (omelettes and chickpeas). Location: Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, close to Dubai Museum. Entry: Cultural breakfasts are held every Monday and Wednesday at 10am and cost AED60 per person. Lunches are held every Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm and cost AED70. Reservations are required for both. Contact: 04 3536666

DUBAI MUSEUM

04 3531862

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.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) 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.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 7.30pm, Friday 2.30 to 7.30pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

04 2253312

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.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

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 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

04 3946343

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

Timings: Daily 8.30am to 1.30pm and 3.30 to 8.30pm. Fri 3.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1

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 (under eight years free) Map reference: E1

Know the law Only non-Muslims are allowed to consume alcohol and this must be in licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs or private venues. Do not consume alcohol if driving. Dancing is only allowed in the privacy of your hotel room or at licensed clubs. Avoid addressing women in public or taking their photograph without their permission. Offensive language, spitting and aggressive hand gestures must be avoided. Married couples may hold hands in public, but kissing and hugging is not allowed.

102

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20/12/2012 15:05

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

Attractions

FIRST YACHT

04 3754148/050 6550313

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

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

Cruising Individual hotels and tour operators can also organise pleasure cruises on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2959477

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 AED2,400 per boat ART MARINE

04 3388955

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

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From

AED750 per hour

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: AED350 CLUB MINA

04 3993333

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

Timings: From 6am to 6pm Guide price: From AED3,500 DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 2629993/050 7548466 Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

per person

SUMMERTIME MARINE

Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175

hours for up to seven people THE YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Adults from

AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along Dubai Marina. Inclusive of buffet, drinks and live entertainment.

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275 per adult and AED90 per child

Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason)

Timings: From 2:30pm Guide price: Adults

AED250, children AED210

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

04 2666655

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

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6289667

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

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

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

Flying

Timings: Dinner cruise

at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises

Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices

04 3034888

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

04 2682880

From a Hummer safari taking in an authentic Bedouin camp, to a trek through the Hajar Mountains. DESERT RANGERS TOURS & ADVENTURE SPORTS

04 3572233

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

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LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JAN13.indd 104

ORIENT TOURS

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

04 3572200

1. Skydiving 2. Belly dancing, Arabian Adventures 3. Arabian Adventures 4. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall

04 2629993/050 7548466

VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

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

050 5517406

04 3357676

Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24

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

EL MUNDO

LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

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

ARABIAN ADVENTURES

Timings: Every Saturday 8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275

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

OASIS PALM TOURISM

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

DREAMDAYS

800 2080

04 2340812

04 2573084

04 3511117

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

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

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 AED1,199

per person for 25 minutes. Private hour-long tours are priced at AED4,840 per person

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: AED1,000 for first-time flyers trial flight, plus AED100 for airport pass FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4448866

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

23/12/2012 11:39

T HE GUI D E / e xpe r ie nce

FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY

09 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

lessons AED960

Paintballing

(see Sports) DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

04 4361400/04 4361422

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

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

Timings: Thu to Sat 9.30am to 11.30pm, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED160 with go-karting

Timings: From 9am to 4pm Guide price: AED1,375 per

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

SEAWINGS

04 8832999

person for 40 minutes

04 3244755/050 6514583

Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.

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

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED80 for two

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3464194

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings

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

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

04 2854949

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

Shooting

06 5487777

Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semiautomatic paintball guns and the latest antifog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours on weekdays (AED90 Thu to Sat), includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Skydiving iFLYDUBAI

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 and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED195. Children AED145 SKYDIVE DUBAI

050 1533222

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

Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

Little Explorers

The Mane Attraction

04 4485200

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for

800 LEISURE (5347873)

MAGIC PLANET

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

non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED625 for certified divers

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free

Family activities

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

04 4297949

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

Amusements & attractions

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED30 per hour

BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)

SEGA REPUBLIC

800 28843867

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED100, children (4 to 12 years) AED75. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400 DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

04 3244555

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

Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Family fun Whether you have mischievous infants or impatient teenagers, Dubai offers something for all the family. Desert safari Sand boarding, quad biking, camel riding, belly dancing – the list of activities available in the desert is endless. Choose from an adrenalinefuelled adventure or a more sedate cultural journey of discovery. Water parks No matter what your age, the UAE’s water parks will leave you squealing with delight. Our favourites are Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and Wild Wadi at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. KidZania This interactive children’s ‘city’ allows children to fly aeroplanes, drive buses and work in restaurants playing adult roles in a world created just for them (pictured). Ski Dubai Escape the heat and head to Ski Dubai, the longest indoor ski slope in the world. This popular attraction offers skiing, snow boarding, tobogganing, tubing and even zorbing. There’s also an area to build snowmen.

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

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

Timings: From 2pm to

dusk Sun to Thu. From 11am to dusk Fri and Sat. Guide price: Adults AED1,750. Cash only

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Timings: Tue to Sun 11am to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA

04 4485222

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

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.

04 4488484

Do a stable tour Get up close and personal with award-winning prize thoroughbreds at Meydan Racecourse. The tour includes a trackside breakfast at Farriers at The Meydan followed by a snoop around the stables. Expect to see the horses work out on treadmills and in swimming pools Go desert hacking If tearing over the dunes in a turbocharged 4x4 puts you on edge, a more sedate way to experience the desert is on horse back at the Emirates Equestrian Centre. Desert hacks take place on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30am and 4pm. Learn to play polo Experience the sport of kings, queens and maharajas at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club beside Arabian Ranches. Group and private lessons are available and for those who don't wish to stick and ball, pack a picnic.

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Guide price: Entry is free of charge but AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card. Power Pass AED140, Platinum Pass AED220 THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

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.

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 6pm, theme park 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED105 adults, AED95 children

Arts & crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE

04 3447331/04 3410144

Create your own piece of pottery art at Café Ceramic.

Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm to midnight Guide price: ceramic prices vary from AED45 to AED200

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JAM JAR

04 3417303

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

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

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.

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 1 to 9pm, Fri and Sat noon to 9pm Guide price: AED175 for adults; AED150 children 5. Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 6. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai 7. Al Badia Golf Club 8. Wild Wadi

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

to 8.30pm, Fri 3 to pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 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: Sat to Wed

10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED35 for two hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass

04 4260000

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 10am to midnight, Friday 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE

04 4260000

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

(see Sports)

DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

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 AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

Golf

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

Ice skating

DOLPHIN BAY

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED220 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free

THE LOST CHAMBERS

Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED225 for adults, AED180 for children under 1.2 metres

Marine adventures

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

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

Waterparks

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

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

04 3484444

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

CHILDREN’S CITY

04 3241222/04 3243222

WILD WADI

04 3369773

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

SPLASHLAND

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED105 adults; AED95 children

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

Edutainment An interactive science and cultural centre.

Cool it

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adult tunnel entry AED25, child AED20; tunnel and zoo AED50

adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

04 3340808

04 4485200

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

Dubai Ice Rink Whether you’re practicing pirouettes or learning a basic glide, the Olympic-sized ice rink at The Dubai Mall provides a chilledout way to pass a hot summer afternoon. Tots, tweens and teens are all welcome at this fun filled ice park. Location: The Dubai Mall Contact: 04 448511 Ski Dubai The first indoor ski slope in the region caters for all ages and abilities, with green, blue, red and black runs, as well as a variety of jumps and raps. If that sounds too hardcore, head to the Snow Park, or get up close and personal with gentoo and king penguins, in the resort’s unique penguin enclosure. Location: Mall of the Emirates Contact: 04 4094000 Chillout For the ultimate icy experience book a table at Chillout, a bar entirely carved from ice. All the necessary clothing is provided, including thermal coats, gloves and shoes and then you’re free to enjoy dinner and mocktails in this effortlessly cool haunt. Location: Times Square Contact: 800 CHILLOUT (24455688)

04 6010111

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

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

04 3663000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED555, Fri and Sat AED660 for 18 holes DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2956000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED695 and Fri to Sat AED595 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 top-notch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a spa.

Green fees: Majlis Course

daily AED995 for 18 holes. Faldo Course Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes

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10-11-12 JANUARY 2013

8th edition

Race Starts: 14:00 Friday, 11 January Entry: FREE to Grandstand & Paddock Location: Dubai Autodrome Grand Prix Circuit: 5.39km

expe r ience/THE GUIDE

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8145555

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

WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

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

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?

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED160

Timings: Sat to Thu 6.30am to 10pm, Fri 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED60 for one hour with an instructor

Jumeirah Golf Estates

04 3065061

Earth Course:

(6,473 yards, par-72) Fire Course: (6,507 yards, par-72) One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.

Green fees: Sun to Thu

AED495 and Fri and Sat AED795 for 18 holes 9. Dubai Desert Classic 10. Scuba diving 11. Rock climbing 12. Wake boarding

04 3240000

for 9 holes and AED240 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED195 for 9 holes and AED320 for 18 holes. Twilight rate is AED125 from approximately 5.10pm

04 3752222

Climbing

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

04 3905600

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

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB

04 4251010

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

Green fees: Daily AED795 for 18 holes

Sports

THE WALL

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 2

to 10pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED90 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor

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

Guide price: Two-day PADI course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,850. Pleasure dives from AED400

Fishing Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2950516

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED875 ART MARINE

04 4068825

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED750 per hour onwards 10

Archery HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 8523211

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

Timings:8am to 6pm Guide price: Sun to Thu

AED50 for 30 minutes and Fri AED50 for 30 minutes JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

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

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

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2054646

Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price:AED2,000 for four hours. Longer trips are available as required first yacht

04 3754148/050 6550313 Up to seven people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: 6am onwards Guide price:AED3,400

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: Mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: AED1,750 for four hours on the boat.

no boundaries

050 2514988

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED4,400 a day for up to four people. AED440 to stay in a lodge

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573084

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

Timings: From 6am to 10am and midday to 4pm Guide price: AED2,500 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

SPECTATOR SPORTS Don't fancy working up a sweat? Relax at one of these high-profile spectator events Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon January This yearly running race begins and ends at Downtown Dubai, right next to Burj Khalifa. Head to Jumeirah Beach Road to cheer on the pavement pounders as they make their way around the city. Omega Dubai Desert Classic January/February Golf stars unite on the fairways of the Emirates Golf Club and compete for the much-coveted cup. Watch them as they go toe to toe. Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships February/March Some of the most talented players on the planet battle it out at The Aviation Club's centre court. Book your seats because tickets get snapped up fast. Dubai World Cup March The cream of the racing world meet at Meydan Racecourse to watch prize thoroughbreds as they thrash it out on the racetrack. This is the world's richest horse race.

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JAN13.indd 110

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T HE GUI D E / e xpe r ie nce

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

Horseriding DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

04 3618111

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

Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED300

04 8327171

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

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

Timings: Tue to Sun 7am

to noon and 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED150 for a 30-minute lesson, AED200 for a one-hour outdoor ride (experienced riders only)

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED600 FORMULA ONE

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

AL NASR LEISURELAND

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

04 3371234

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

Timings: See website

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two

DUBAI ICE RINK

04 8836000

Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by world champion Rod 'Hot Rod' Fuller at the Yas Drag Racing Centre.

Ice skating

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

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

riding from AED200

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

Timings: Lessons from 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson

DRAG RACING

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

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 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED50 for two hours

Karting DUBAI AUTODROME

04 3678744

Swing into action Each year top golfers from around the world meet up for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. This renowned golfing event takes place from January 28 to February 3 at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, which is located in Deira and is famed for its beautiful views of the Dubai Creek. Don’t miss your opportunity to watch the best of the best. Famous faces to have played this annual professional tournament include Lee Westwood, Greg Norman and Ernie Els.

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

30 minutes

Mini golf 04 8523221

04 3402408

Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve while spotting birds and other sea life along the way.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for mini golf and fun course. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JAN13.indd 111

The fortress-style architecture opens to an indoor and outdoor shooting academy and floodlit clay-shooting ranges.

Timings: Winter – Wed to Mon 1 to 10pm; summer – Wed to Mon 3pm to midnight Guide price: Outdoor AED220 for 25 shots; indoor AED140

06 5487777

One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.

Skiing SKI DUBAI

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Watersports

DESERT RANGERS

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

04 8836555

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

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

02 5629050

Located on the Dubai to Abu Dhabi highway, watch polo while enjoying a meal in the clubhouse. Nonmembers are welcome.

Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for

Guide price: AED6,400

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm; Thu 10am to midnight; Fr 9am to midnight; Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED120 for entry to Snow Park for adults, AED110 for children; AED180 for adults and AED150 for children for two hours on the ski slope

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

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

Enjoy the ultimate holiday experience when you set sail on a luxury yacht ranging in size from 50 to 188ft.

Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

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

050 5592131

04 2573084

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

04 3618111

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110

Take your pick from five boats that can be chartered for a day on the water or go one step further and learn to sail one yourself.

Tour operators offer biking trips through the Hajar Mountains, with gear provided. Trips include pickup and lunch on request.

Polo

14. Ski Dubai 15. Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club 16. Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club

050 5517280

Shooting

Mountainbiking

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

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

Drive open-wheel, singleseat race cars, two-seat open sports cars and topof-the-range race-spec sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.

04 2096000

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

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

for four hours

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Private tuition starts at AED1,500 for private tuition

GALLERIA ICE RINK

04 3941669

YAS Racing School

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 4485111

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

Hotels can organise watersports on request. Some have their own facilities. See Taste section for hotel telephone numbers

Guide price:

Banana rides AED150 for 20 minutes Parasailing AED250 per ride Waterskiing AED150 for 20 minutes Wakeboarding AED150 for 20 minutes Windsurfing AED170 per hour

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23/12/2012 11:57

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

Hotel outlets & promotions

Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Dubai

Desert

04 3663000

An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

Armani Hotel Dubai

04 8883888 Al Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

Head to Choices every Tuesday for Indian night. Prices start at AED189 per person. Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Lebanese Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

04 8329900 Desert

Al Diwaan is a popular gourmet restaurant serving international cuisine. Al Diwaan – International

Al Manzil Hotel

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai Dubai's favourite sports bar, Nezesaussi Grill, is now hosting 'Nezesaussi Brekky for lunch' any day of the week from midday to 4pm for only AED65. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Head to Pergolas every Tuesday for seafood night costing just AED270. Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Arabic Pergolas – International Zaika Restaurant – Indian

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim For a delicious selection of Thai food book a table at Pai Thai. 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

Amwaj Rotana

04 4282000

Jumeirah Beach Residence Brandish your chopsticks at the Benihana all-you-can-eat dinner every Saturday and Monday from 6 to 11.30pm. Prices start at AED209. Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian

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Downtown Dubai This season, the Armani/ Ristorante team has teamed up with a quartet of renowned wine makers to host a series of four dining events pairing an exquisite five-course degustation menu with blends and vintages from the world’s finest vineyards. Events taking place in January fall on the 20 and 30, from 7pm, priced at AED650 per person including paired wines. Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/Mediterraneo – Mediterranean Armani/Peck – Italian Armani/Privé – Lounge/nightclub Armani/Ristorante – Italian fine dining

Asiana hotel

04 2387777 Deira

The property’s signature restaurant Sonamu offers fine Korean cuisine and is ideal for thoseseeking a cozy place to socialise. Hanabi – Japanese Lamesa – Filipino Sea World – Seafood Sonamu – Korean Yuraku – Japanese

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

04 4260000

The Palm Jumeirah With 20 restaurants, bars and lounges brought to you by world-renowned chefs, Atlantis is one of the most diverse and iconic culinary destinations in Dubai. Each venue is unique and, as you’d expect, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion. 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 Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Burger Joint – American diner

Auris Plaza Hotel Al Barsha

04 4554800 Al Barsha

This inner city hotel is home to Didon Restaurant, a traditional Arabic eatery, well-known for its Levantine-inspired dishes and fantastic service. Didon Restaurant – Arabic

04 8096100

This charming desert retreat is home to the popular Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant. Visitors should try the delicious pizza at Pizzeria Le Dune and sample the signature cocktails at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge. 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 Jumeirah

Head to Skyview Bar for a superb afternoon tea and spectacular views over Dubai. Prices start at AED425 per person, including a glass of bubbly. Al Iwan – Arabic Al Mahara – European Al Muntaha – International Bab al Yam – International Juna Lounge – Cocktail bar Junsui – Far Eastern Majlis Al Bahar – Mediterranean Sahn Eddar – Afternoon tea Skyview Bar – Cocktail bar

Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community

04 8852222

Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar

1. Junsui, Burj Al Arab 2. Ossigeno, Le Royal Méridien 3. Zuma, Dubai International Financial Centre 4. Pai Thai, Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah

Crowne Plaza Dubai

04 3311111

Sheikh Zayed Road Satisfy your meat cravings at Western Steakhouse, which is running a veal promotion from January 7 to 20, serving a mouth-watering selection of four veal dishes. Prices start from AED89. 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

Bring your family for a fun day out at Spice Island. Every Friday from noon to 4pm enjoy abuffet and kids' entertainment. Prices start at AED179 per person. Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

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Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

Dubai Festival City

Al Aqah Beach

04 7012222

The Belgian Brunch at the Belgian Beer Café boasts a live guitarist and a hearty feast including delicious waffles, a pork station and free-flowing house Belgian beverages. Every Friday from 1 to 4pm. AED249. Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

This dining complex is located in the heart of Jumeirah. Hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd, with Boudoir, Loca Restaurant and Bar and Sho-Cho hosting regular theme nights. 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 Enjoy stunning views during The Observatory’s happy hour, which runs from 5 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday and 5 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday, or head to Az.u.r for a tasty selection of Mediterranean dishes. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road This distinctive property close to The Dubai Mall is home to Benjarong, one of the best Thai restaurants in the city. Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International

Fairmont Dubai

04 3325555

Sheikh Zayed Road Indulge in unlimited sushi and sake every Wednesday at Spectrum on One from 7 to 9pm. Alternatively, book in for a famous Friday brunch from 12 to 3pm. Prices start at AED295 per person. Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar 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 One of Dubai's newest luxury hotels, Fairmont The Palm, Dubai is home to a variety of high-end restaurants. Flow Kitchen – International Mashrabiya Lounge – Lounge The Cigar Room – Lounge

09 2449888

For those who like to explore, this out-of-town option is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents. Fujairah is a neighbouring emirate on the east coast. Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International

Grand Hyatt Dubai

04 3171234 Oud Metha

Peppercrab is the only Singaporean-inspired restaurant in the city. Alternatively, head to Manhattan Grill for genuine American-style steaks that promise to tickle the taste buds. 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

At the Belgian Beer Cafe diners can enjoy a feast of mussels, beef carbonnade, rabbit stew, grilled salmon, toast cannibal, shrimps croquette and a selection of cheese and desserts for AED275 per person, including selected free flowing Belgian brews, house beverages, grape and bubbly. Noon to 3pm. Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian Exit 36 – Garden venue

Grosvenor House, Dubai

04 3998888

Dubai Marina Celebrity chefs including Vineet Bhatia, Gary Rhodes and Richard Sandoval operate restaurants in this awardwinning five-star hotel. Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British 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 This popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations. 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

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 Topkapi – Taj Palace Hotel 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 Armani/Hashi – Armani Hotel Dubai 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 – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa 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 Hukama – The Address Downtown Dubai Okku – The H Hotel 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

INDIAN Zaika Restaurant – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Armani/Amal – Armani Hotel Dubai 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 – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Handi – Taj Palace Hotel

MEDITERRANEAN Rosso – Amwaj Rotana Armani/Peck – Armani Hotel Dubai Armani/Ristorante – Armani Hotel Dubai

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 – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa 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 – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Rococo – Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach 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

SEAFOOD Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Seaworld – Asiana Hotel Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fish Bazaar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Divaz – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa 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 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 The Rib Room – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Rhodes Twenty10 – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Palm Grill – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Fire & Ice – Raffles Dubai Chef’s Steak House Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Ruth’s Cris Steak House – The H Hotel Dubai Prime – The Meydan Center Cut – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Hunters – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Benihana, Al Bustan Rotana

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

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Hatta Fort Hotel

04 8099333 Hatta

Enjoy drinks by the outdoor pool, while watching your favourite films at the Movies Under The Stars night every Thursday and Friday. Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Hilton Dubai Creek

04 2271111 Deira

A home-grown restaurant by award-winning chefs Scott Price and Nick Alvis, table9 by nick and scott offers elegant cuisine in an intimate setting. Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by nick and scott – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina For a meal to remember, the multi award-winning BiCE restaurant won’t disappoint. Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar Cuban Bar – Cuban Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

5. Signature by Sanjeev, Meliá Dubai 6. Voi, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray 7. Eauzone, One&Only Royal Mirage 8. Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – InterContinental, Dubai Festival City

hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates

04 3772000

Sheikh Zayed Road For a variety of multicultural cuisine, visit all-day dining restaurant Sanabel, where you can dine al fresco during the cooler months. Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar

hyatt regency dubai

04 2091234 Deira

Head to The Kitchen every Thursday from 12.30 to 3pm for great pizza. For AED130 per person enjoy an extensive buffet and soft drinks. Alternatively, enjoy an unlimited buffet and 360° views of the city at Al Dawaar revolving restaurant. Lunch is priced at AED155 per person while dinner costs AED230.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

04 8145555 Jebel Ali

If you have a taste for global cuisine, enjoy a culinary journey at the themed nights at Ibn Majed. New themed buffets include every speciality from Germany (including delicious rhubarb pudding), tasty Thai delicacies, as well as Indian and British dishes. 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

For al fresco fun, you can't beat 360˚. Set at the end of a pier, the outdoor space boasts panoramic views of Dubai’s coastline and sunsets over the Arabian Gulf. For indoor dining, enjoy a fivecourse Arabic menu at Al Khayal from 7pm to midnight. Prices start at AED340 per person. Alternatively, visit Beachcombers for traditional Far Eastern fare. 360° – Terrace bar Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Mahiki – Nightclub Uptown – Bar

Jumeirah creekside hotel

04 2308555 DIFC

Enjoy a three-course set menu at Blue Flame complemented by half a bottle house of grape beverage plus water and coffee for AED220 during January. Available daily from 6 to 11pm. Alternatively, book a Friday brunch at Nomad, which boasts nine cooking stations. From noon to 4pm, it costs AED295 and kids under 12 go free. Until January 31, two can dine for the price of one!

Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Focaccia – Italian Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub

Biscotti – Italian Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Cuban Nomad – Asian

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

Head to Vu’s bar on January 9 and 23 and enjoy a cigar while listening to live jazz from 7 to 11pm. Prices start from AED for two Habanos cigars and two shots of premium whisky. Tuesday night, ladies’ will receive two complimentary glasses of bubbly and a bowl of strawberries from 9pm to 1am.

04 3324444 Zabeel

Cubo Pasta is a well-liked lunch spot for delegates at the neighbouring World Trade Centre. Cubo Pasta – Italian

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

04 7011111

Dubai Festival City Prepare your palate for a burst of flavours at Anise every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm for AED325, including soft drinks. Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steakhouse

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

04 3300000 DIFC

Alfie's – English Al Nafoorah – Arabic Clique – Bar 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 Vu’s Bar – Champagne bar Vu's Restaurant – International

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

04 4530000

The Palm Jumeirah Enjoy a selection of Chef Aman’s tandoori flavours on Mondays and Wednesdays in Amala for AED190, from 6pm to 1am. Alternatively, head to Al Nafoorah to sample a three-course Lebanese set menu for AED225 or AED245 with a glass of traditional Arak. Available Sunday to Wednesday, 7 to 11.30pm. 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

From 6 to 8pm daily enjoy selected beverages for as little as AED22 at Brauhaus' happy hour. Diners can also look forward to a selection of traditional German dishes, including bratwurst sausage. Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

kempinski hotel & Residences, palm jumeirah

04 4442000

Dubai Marina Located on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, this luxurious property is home to a variety of high-end restaurants. Beachside Barbecue – Brasserie Brunello Restaurant – Italian K-West Bar – Wine bar

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

04 3993333

Dubai Marina Home to one of Dubai's most popular beach venues, Barasti is a stone's throw from the sea. Visitors can enjoy great music, a delicious menu and expertly cooked cocktails. Barasti – International

Go local Dubai is abundant with Arabic restaurants but for authentic Emirati cuisine we recommend the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. The centre offers a variety of programmes which can be experienced over a spread of traditional Emirati dishes. Local cuisine is uncomplicated and relies on meat, fish and rice, enhanced by the creative use of spices and other aromatic flavourings. Traditional dishes include ouzi, which is a whole roast lamb stuffed with fragrant rice, and balaleet – a fine egg pasta with onion.

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

04 3995555

Dubai Marina Home to a selection of bars and restaurants, including Ossigeno, which is well-known for its southern Italian menu.

global gourmet

Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Bar Below – Wine bar Brasserie – International Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar

Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

Savour great Italian food every Tuesday at The Fountain from 7 to 10.30pm from AED85 per person. Alternatively, head to Chutney's for a delicious curry or Fakhreldine for an array of tantalising Arabic dishes.

Media One Hotel

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

Dubai Media City

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

04 4271000

04 4440111 Deira

The MED is a stylish yet relaxed Mediterranean eatery with an outdoor terrace boasting stunning views over the Palm Jumeirah. M-Dek – Terrace bar The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000 Al Barsha

An unlimited buffet of Japanese specialities is on offer at Channels. Prices start at AED145 per person (excluding alcohol). Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Melia Dubai

04 3868111 Port Rashid

Famed chefs Marco Pierre White and Sanjeev Kapoor head up two of the three restaurants at this hotel. Azalya – International Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian Titanic by Marco Pierre White – European

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

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is located in the heart of the city. Drop into La Plaza for a spot of Mediteranean fare. La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim The Wharf serves bigbone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce for AED110 per person. The deal is available every Tuesday from 7pm. Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining The Wharf – British Zheng He's – Chinese

table9 by nick and scott For mouthwatering European dishes book a table at this Deira restaurant. The bill of fare, which is updated every three months, is abundant with delicious offerings such as sea bass and quail. Location: Hilton Dubai Creek Contact: 04 2271111 Toro Toro Enjoy a feast of South American delights at celebrity chef Richard Sandoval's Toro Toro. Location: Grosvenor House Dubai Contact: 04 5018888 Eauzone Set on a lagoon-like pool this picturesque spot, with elegant evening lighting, has become a hot spot for diners seeking to dine on gourmet pan-Asian fare. Location: One&Only Royal Mirage Contact: 04 3999999 Armani/Amal One of Dubai's top Indian restaurants, the menu includes sumptuous staples such as murgh makhani and exquisite signatures like the vegetable Mumbai biryani. Location: Armani Hotel Dubai Contact: 04 8883888 Times of Arabia Enjoy traditional Arabic hospitality at this Middle Eastern-themed restaurant at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Location: Souk Madinat Jumeirah Contact: 04 3686044

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this five-star property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes. Head to Jigsaw for a wide selection of international dishes or Wok-In Bar for Asian-themed tipples. Jigsaw – International Spiritz – Bar Wok-In Restaurant– Pan Asian

Mövenpick Hotel IBN BATTUTA GATE

04 4440000 Jebel Ali

Join the Surf and Turf Night Brunch at Mistral every Thursday and Friday night. From 7 to 11pm for AED299 including free-flowing house wine and beer or AED 180 with soft drinks.Al Bahou offers a sumptuous Friday Brunch involving the hotel’s five signature venues (Sicilia, Shanghai Chic, Mistral, Moroc Bar and Chor Bazaar) with live cooking stations offering Indian, Italian, Chinese, Arabic and international cuisine plus a dedicated sweet and cheese room. Every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm, costing from AED295 for adults including soft drinks. Mistral – Arabic Al Bahou – Brunch buffet Sicilia – Italian Shanghai Chic – Chinese Moroc Bar – Moroccan lounge Chor Bazaar – Indian

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 4498888

Jumeirah Beach Residence Savour rustic Italian cuisine at the Talk Restaurant & Lounge, with pizzas cooked in a beech wood oven and authentic pastas bursting with flavour. Daily from 6.30 to 11pm. On Fridays try the Jazz & Bubbles Friday Brunch, which now boasts a live saxophone player for entertainment. From 12.30 to 4pm, from AED222 per adult including buffet and soft beverages. The Talk Restaurant & Lounge – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar

Novotel World Trade Centre

04 3320000

Trade Centre Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers. Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

Oasis Beach Tower

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence Enjoy brunch every Friday at Thyme Restaurant. From 12.30 to 3pm, prices start at AED140 per person. Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai – Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

One of Dubai's most elegant properties with sprawling lawns and sophisticated outlets, One&Only Royal Mirage houses restaurants such as Beach Bar & Grill and Celebrities. It is also home to Eau Zone, which is well known as one of the most romantic eateries in the emirate. 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 Head to Stay by Yannick Alléno for delicious French cuisine or Zest for flavours of Asia and the Middle East. 101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

Park Hyatt Dubai

04 6021234 Garhoud

Visit The Terrace at Park Hyatt Dubai to sample an exquisite menu of German tapas, created by Traiteur’s Sous Chef Daniel Hofler and the property’s Executive Sous Chef Etienne Karne. Available exclusively from January 6 to 24. Open from noon to 1am, Saturday to Thursday and from noon to 2am on Friday. Alternatively, book in for the famous Friday brunch at Traiteur from 12.30 to 4pm with prices starting at AED425 per person. Cafe Arabesque – Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

a city with taste

Foodies will be pleased to know that every March the city plays host to Taste of Dubai, a three-day food festival. Tickets are priced at AED60 per day for advance bookings and AED75 if you buy on the door. Children under 12 go free. For details visit tasteofdubai.com

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

Ramada plaza Jumeirah Beach

Deira

Jumeirah Beach Residence

04 2227171

Authentic Japanese restaurant Minato is offering a Bonekai & Shinnenkai set menu until January 15 for AED230 per person. The set menu is prepared by Chef Nakagawa and includes a wide selection of appetisers, salad, sashimi, hot pot and dessert together with bottomless sake, wine, beer, chilled juices, soft drinks and water. Minimum bookings of two persons required. From 12.30 to 3pm and 7.30 to 11pm. 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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

04 4502000

Downtown Dubai Located on the upper floors of a mixed-use building close to the thriving Business Bay district, this new property has excellent views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

04 3669111

Dubai Media City The Italian chefs at Certo, Chef Daniele and Chef Renaud, are preparing various meat dishes Brasato style this month. All about great food prepared with simple, yet high-quality ingredients, Brasato is made from cuts of meat which have been marinated with aromatic herbs and spices, then left to slow cook in their own juices and stew gradually over a period of time. Available from January 15 to 31. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar

radisson royal hotel dubai

04 3080000

Sheikh Zayed Road Dine on an array of delicious Asian and Arabian dishes as well as international favourites while enjoying the stunning panoramic views at any of this hotel’s four restaurants. Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indo Thai Asian Restaurant – Asian

Raffles Dubai

04 3248888 Oud Metha

Head to Azur every Friday for a classic British roast. Comprising roasted meats, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing and gravy, the lunch is priced at AED200.

04 4398888

This hotel, located in Jumeirah Beach Residence is home to the city's first Brazilian restaurant and well worth a visit. Shores – International Fogueira –Brazilian

Rixos the palm dubai

04 4575555

Palm Jumeirah Rixos The Palm Dubai is home to Chef's Steak House Restaurant, which has become a firm favourite with many meat lovers. A la Turca – International Chef's Steak House Restaurant – Steak House Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Italian

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

04 3230111

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC Sample creative dishes from around the world at Petals. Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road Sample dishes from Indonesia, Thailand, China, Vietnam and India at Dunes Café. Running from 11.30am until 4pm every friday, brunch is priced at AED330 per person and includes a selection of Asian house beverages. Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

04 2281111 Deira

This time-honoured spot has become a firm favourite with returning visitors who wish to experience a touch of 'old' Dubai. Head to Creekside, which is well known for its (yup, you've guessed it), Creekside views, for a tasty seafood buffet. A rich assortment of local fish prepared in a variety of ways is available for AED175 per person. Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

04 3995533

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

Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar Fire & Ice – Steakhouse People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Tomo – Japanese

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T A ST E/THE GUIDE

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

Dubai Marina

Emirates Hills

04 4484848

Unwind with your family at AOC French Brassiere’s Friday BBQ brunch. Sit out on the terrace by the beach and sample the lavish buffet which includes a wide selection of seafood and sushi with entertainment at live cooking stations. From 1 to 4pm. From AED220 including soft beverages. AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

Taj Palace Hotel

04 2232222 Deira

Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali accompanied by live music. Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic Verdi – Italian

The Address Downtown Dubai

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai Head to Calabar and join the city’s stylish fun seekers for an extended Happy Hour on all beverages. Groove to the live set from the resident DJ and let the weekend vibe continue into the evening for the ultimate chilled-out Friday. From 4 to 8pm. Daily Happy Hour on all beverages starts at 6pm. Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Every Tuesday from 7 to 11pm diners can enjoy a five-course tasting menu at Ember Grill and Lounge for AED295 per person. Cabana – Lounge Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

The Address Dubai Marina

04 4238888

Dubai Marina Try out a new talent this month and be in with a chance of winning fabulous prizes at Mazina’s fun-filled Saturday Family Brunch. Learn the exquisite art of flower bouquet arrangements and the best florist will stand to win a selection of prizes. Enjoy the delicious buffet menu of international dishes on January 19 from 12.30 to 3.30pm costing AED220 per person including soft beverages. Those aged under six eat for free while ages seven to 12 go half price. Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

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The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

04 3905600

04 3994141

Dubai Marina

Taste a traditional roast with all the trimmings at Nineteen every Saturday from noon to 3.30pm. From AED235 (including soft drinks) and AED325 (including soft drinks and selected house beverages). On selected dates you can watch Dubai’s top Chefs battle it out in the kitchen as they compete against the clock to create three scrumptious innovative dishes. After sampling the dishes, diners judge who should be declared the winner. AED295 including soft beverages and AED395 with selected house beverages.

Enjoy lunch at Bussola. Indulge in two courses of Italian food for only AED110 per person. The lunch runs from Sunday to Thursday. Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai

Towers Rotana Dubai

04 3438000

Sheikh Zayed Road For British fare at its best head to Flavours on Two every Tuesday for Flavours from Britain. For AED179 expect classic Brit dishes with selected beverages.

Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International

The h hotel, dubai

04 5018888

Sheikh Zayed Road Modern Japanese restaurant Okku is a favourite among Dubai's social elite. Steak lovers should head to the award-winning Ruth's Cris Steak House. Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar Ruth's Chris Steak House – Steakhouse

9. Mazina, The Address Dubai Marina 10. Hoi-an, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai 11. Na3Na3, The Address Dubai Mall

Meydan

This stylish bar is located in the heart of the city. AQUARA

04 3627934

Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy spectacular views over Dubai Marina. at.mosphere

04 8883828

BarZar

Deira

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

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

04 3666197

Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar also serves British food .

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

carluccio's

villa rotana

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre

Sheikh Zayed Road Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet.

Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house Shiba – Asian

Al Murooj Rotana

Traders Hotel Dubai

04 3216111

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience.

050 2464555

Burj Khalifa

The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style.

04 3813333

Alegra

Flavours on Two – International Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International

04 2659888

The Meydan

Moka Café – All-day dining

04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728

Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment. cavalli club

04 332960

Fairmont Dubai

ARABIC TASTE

The Palace Downtown Dubai

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai With a variety of restaurants and lounges offering international and regional cuisine, visitors are spoilt for choice at this luxurious hotel. Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai

City dining

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

04 3994000

Hummous: Well known and loved even beyond the Middle East, this Arabic dip or spread is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with ground sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic. Moutabel: This is a delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine.

Dubai Marina For afternoon tea, book a table at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, prices start at AED125 per person. Amaseena – Arabic Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian

Fattoush: This Levantine salad is made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread and mixed with lettuce, cucumber, onion and other vegetables.

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

04 3722222 DIFC

Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Barbecue Night. Prices start at AED240 per person.

Sambusek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach.

Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar

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 Mango Tree

04 4267313

Souk Al Bahar Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while overlooking Burj Khalifa. Ushna

04 3686506

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor and excellent cuisine. West 14th

04 4477601

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

24/12/2012 13:44

DUBAI TOURIST MAP

N W ATLANTIS THE PALM

HOTELS

42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83

JUMEIRAH BEACH

5 70

ROAD TO JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

HIGHWAY

INTERCHANGE 6

METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

10 40 17 11

23 45

SALIK

EMIRATES HILLS

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

B1 E2 E2 E2 A1 B3 B3 A1 D2 B2 A1 B1

HIGHWAY

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

IRA TES

TO AIRPORT

AL KHAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA AND PRODUCTION ZONE ROAD TO: • THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI SPORTS CITY

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

10 • BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

N W

HI GH W AY

8 THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI JUMEIRAHAUTODROME ARABIAN RANCHES BEACH GOLF CLUB

SKYDIVE DUBAI

A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 B1 B1 B2 B2 C1 D1 D1 D1 D1 D1 D1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2

TIMES SQUARE CENTRE

E AT

COMMUNITY Jebel Ali DUBAI Danube INVESTMENT Energy IbnPARK Battuta Nakheel Harbour & Tower Jumeirah Lakes Towers Dubai Marina Nakheel Dubai Internet City Sharaf DG Mall of the Emirates First Gulf Bank Noor Islamic Bank Business Bay Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Financial Centre Emirates Towers World Trade Centre Al Jafiliya Al Karama BurJuman Union Al Rigga Deira City Centre GGICO Airport Terminal 1 Airport Terminal 3 Emirates Rashidiya

DUBAILA

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

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

E2 E2 E2 E2 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2

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

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

As Dubai's main artery, this is one of the busiest roads along with Al Khail and Emirates Road.

12 GREEN COMMUNITY

GREEN DUBAI METRO 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

12 11

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

75 Aquaventure Aviation Club Al Nasr Leisureland and Stadium Al Wasl Stadium Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Dubai Sports City Jebel Ali Sailing Club (JASC) Meydan Racecourse Ski Dubai Skydive Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

Al Ghurair City E1 Arabian Center F3 Beach Centre D1 Burjuman E1 B1/C1/D1/E1 Choithram Supermarket locations 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 A1 Jumeira Centre D1 Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers D1 Jumeira Plaza D1 Lamcy Plaza E2 Mall of the Emirates B2 Mazaya Centre D1 Mercato D1 Mirdif City Centre E3 Oasis Centre C1 Palm Strip D1 Spinneys Supermarket locations C1/D1/E1 The Dubai Mall D2 Times Square Centre C2 Town Centre D1 The Village D1 Wafi E2

AL WASL ROAD

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

UMM SUQEIM

74 44

IBN BATTUTA

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK

AL SUFOUH ROAD

24 DUBAI MARINA MALL

5 41 83 53

63 51

DUBAI MARINA SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

79 42 25 8

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

21 54

A1 A1

A1 A1 E1 D2 D2 A1 B2 D1 D2 D2 A1 D1 E1 D1

This cluster of Jumeirah properties dominates Dubai's coastline and offers a luxury travel experience. Shop at Souk Madinat, relax in the Assawan Spa or make waves at Wild Wadi

D1 A1 D1 B2

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

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL BURJ AL ARAB MADINAT JUMEIRAH

A2 D1 E1 E2 D3 D1 A1 D1 D1 A1 E2 B2 A1 A1 E1 A1 E1 D1 A1 E2 E1 A1 B1 E2 D1

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5

INTERCHANGE 4

38 39 40 41

E2 D3 D2 D1 A1 D2 E1 A1 B2 B3 B1

INTERCHANGE 5

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Al Manzil Hotel Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Amwaj Rotana Armani Hotel Dubai Asiana Hotel Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Auris Plaza Hotel, Al Barsha Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Burj Al Arab Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Crowne Plaza Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Desert Palm Dubai Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Dusit Thani Dubai Fairmont Dubai Fairmont The Palm Grand Hyatt Dubai Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria Ibis World Trade Centre Hotel Dubai 3 Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel InterContinental Dubai Festival City JW Marriott Dubai Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeriah Creekside Hotel Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeira Rotana Hotel Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates 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 Dubai Meliã Dubai Metropolitan Palace Hotel Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Deira Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Novotel World Trade Centre Hotel One & Only Royal Mirage One & Only The Palm Park Hyatt Dubai Park Regis Kris Kin Qamardeen Hotel 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 Rixos The Palm Dubai Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheraton Deira Hotel and Towers Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Taj Palace Hotel The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Dubai Marina The Address Montgomerie Dubai The H Hotel The Meydan The Palace — The Old Town The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai The Ritz-Carlton DIFC Traders Hotel Dubai Towers Rotana Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina INTERCHANGE 7

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

69 27

THE WALK

TO A

JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

DUBAI MARINA MALL

IRPO

DUBAI MARINA

GLOBAL VILLAGE

MARINA WALK Fairmont Dubai

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

1000 ft 500 m

UNDER CONSTRUC

Ask the concierge desk for a copy of the Concierge Dubai foldout map with tips on what to see and do in the city

DUBAI 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

JUMEIRAH BEACH CORNICHE

www.conciergedubai.com

HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

THE WORLD UNDER CONSTRUCTION

JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD

5 SAFA PARK

SATWA

SALIK

73 24

78 72

DOWNTOWN DUBAI 57

INTERCHANGE 1

BURJ KHALIFA

INTERCHANGE 2

INTERCHANGE 3

THE DUBAI MALL

CREEK PARK

6 55

3 ETH

DUBAI HEALTHCARE 62 CITY

4 WAFI

13 81

METRO GREEN LINE STATIONS 15 TO 20

H 14 15

35 2

2 SALIK

INES

ROAD

BUS

AL GHURAIR CITY

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

22 14

EJ RD

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

28 DM

23 12

LAMCY PLAZA

CLOCK TOWER

HALE

AIRPORT

Officially the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa stands as the centrepiece of the 500acre Downtown Dubai area. The tower houses the superluxurious Armani Hotel Dubai

A 15-minute drive from Dubai airport, the centre is in an enviable location on Sheikh Zayed Road and holds over 60,000 square feet of flexible and versatile exhibition space

BURJ KHALIFA

SALIK

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE

AL KARAMA

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

DIFC

Stretching along the new extension of Dubai Creek, this multi-billion dollar project is a city within a city and is destined to become the business capital of the region

11 22

BUSINESS BAY

59 67

5 21

QA R

AL AL

52 37

36 65 14

DEIRA

MAKTOUM

TRADE

AL K

E RD CENTR

18 29

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

61 20 76

66 80 48 13

23 TO AIRPORT

WORLD TRADE CENTRE

AL RIQ

RD 5

BURJUMAN

SATWA RD

AL WASL ROAD

BUR DUBAI MANKHOOL

ABU HAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH 5

8 DUBAI MUSEUM

BER

15 13

5 19 26

MINA RD

17 22

2ND DECEM

WOLLONGONG BEACH

TIMES QUARE ENTRE

HERITAGE VILLAGE

7 MERCATO

JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK

MM SUQEIM

S BA Y BR

GARHOUD

IDGE

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB

2 6 9

77 9

KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

MERCATO MALL ROAD TO:

16 • DESERT PALM DUBAI 7 • DRAGONMART

5 19 26

ROAD TO:

JUMEIRAH

2 mile

INTERCHANGE 1

BURJ KHALIFA

ROAD TO

23 AL MAHA DESERT 18

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

RESORT & SPA

SILICON OASIS

DUBAI FOUNTAIN

AT EMIR

THE DUBAI MALL

ES R

OAD

DIFC

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS DRAGONMART

BUR C

AL KARAM

52 37

MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE

MUSHRIF PARK

5 12

ZAABEEL

EMAAR BOULEVARD

MIRDIFF 5

ROAD TO DUBAI OUTLET MALL 10

/OM

BUSINESS BAY

DOWNTOWN DUBAI

19 73 24

DUBAI OUTLET MALL

61 20

80 48 13

E RD CENTR TRADE

TTA HA

SATWA

SATWA RD D

BUR DUBAI

MANKHOOL RD

2 km

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

INTERCHANGE 2

2 • ARABIAN CENTER

DUBAILAND

AL WASL SAFA PARK

20 ROAD TO:

15 13

17 29

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

AL WASL ROAD

MINA RD

N W

AL AIN

AL BARARI UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

20 • MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

13 22

10 • DUBAI OUTLET MALL 2 • Al MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA

BEACH ROAD

ER ECEMB 2ND D

MEYDAN

THE PALM DEIRA UNDER CONSTRUCTION

LAMCY PLAZA

500 ft 200 m

28 6 D AR ETH

DUBAI HEALTHCA CITY

{

my dubai Events director Ashley Roberts shares his top tips on how to have a memorable stay in the city

}

1 Skyview Bar, Burj Al Arab 2 Bastakiya wind towers

I’ve already had the pleasure of visiting quite a few spots and my best memory so far has to be watching the sun set from Skyview at Burj Al Arab, while enjoying a delicious afternoon tea I’ve been living in Dubai for six months and I moved here because a job opportunity came up to work on The Life & Style UAE show, an exhibition due to take place in December. In the short time I have been here I’ve already had the pleasure of visiting quite a few spots and my best memory so far has to be watching the sun set from Skyview at Burj Al Arab, while enjoying a delicious afternoon tea. I also enjoy visiting ‘old’ Dubai, whether it’s for some shopping bargains in Karama or just a stroll around the Bastakiya quarter and taking in the sights of Dubai Creek. Dubai is a city famed for its gourmet dining scene. I enjoy a good steak, so Gaucho Dubai at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has to be one of my favourite spots. Royal China, which is also at DIFC, serves the best Chinese food in town. Jamie’s Italian at Dubai Festival

City is good for well-priced, but delicious, Italian fare. For evening drinks I like to head to Siddharta Lounge at Grosvenor House, Dubai, because it’s chilled out and never too busy. At weekends I am often found at Shakespeare and Co. at Dubai Marina Mall with a pot of tea and a piece of cake. At any time of year there is a variety of exciting events to enjoy in Dubai and my favourite has to be Sandance, a fivestar music festival held at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Shopping is a big part of life here and The Dubai Mall is a great place to start. Although it takes a long time to explore (there are over 1,200 stores), you can pretty much get everything you need under one roof. Afterwards I like to put my feet up at one of the al fresco cafés by Burj Lake. From here visitors can marvel at The Dubai Fountain in all its glory.

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23/12/2012 11:58

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