FEBRUARY 2013 | issue 102
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 FEBRUARY 2013 | issue 102
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
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
MY
K
+971 4 4214771
Enough Enough functions functions for two forwatches‌ two watches‌ or oneorManero! one Manero!
Manero_Retr_Gold_conceirge Manero_Retr_Gold_conceirge dps.indd 1dps.indd 1
ElegantlyElegantly and neatly and arranged neatly arranged on the dial onofthe thedial Manero of theRetroGrade Manero RetroGrade are sevenare hands seven and hands four and additional four additional displays. displays. With its retrograde With its retrograde calendar,calendar, intelligently intelligently divided power dividedreserve powerindicator reserve indicator and subdials and subdials for the day forofthe theday week of the andweek a 24-hour and adisplay, 24-houritdisplay, is the embodiment it is the embodiment of Carl F. of Bucherer’s Carl F. Bucherer’s specialty:specialty: the abilitythe to ability blend timeless to blend aesthetics timeless aesthetics with maximum with maximum functionality. functionality. www.carl-f-bucherer.com www.carl-f-bucherer.com
11/22/12 11/22/12 9:54 AM 9:54 AM
FEBRUARY 2013 / Issue 102 / Dubai Edition
Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s
edi tor i a l Grou p Edi tor fay e row e Edi tor JACQU ELI N E CAST ELLUCCIA Con t r ibu t ing edi tor S ol i v i a cut 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 nt i ago Photogr a pher A dh a m Sn e e h Produc t ion Coor dinator Nav e e d A ziz
a dv ert isi ng GROU P a dv ert ising dir ec tor dav id wa de GROU P A dv ert ising M a nager Pr a sh a n d Me non A dv ert ising M a nager ST EPHE N N I XON Hot el r el at ionship m a nager Mi a C ache ro Sa l es M a nager s PAOLO A NGHILE R I Sa nge eta Buta n i m a dih a zou bir i Speci a l proj ec ts K ir at Sa bh a rwa l
CIRCULATION & M AR K ETING c a rol mil a n Chr ist i n 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 distr i but 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 four-sta r hot e ls. A lt hough e v e ry e f fort is m a de to e nsur e t h e acc ur ac y of i n for m at ion conta 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 un 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 nsmitted in a n y form, without first obtaining written permission.
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 Concierge’s circulation is independently audited by BPA Worldwide www.bpaww.com
WELCOME TO concierge Unique, exclusive and luxurious, Dubai is an easy city to fall for. Modern architectural marvels and pristine beaches combine with some of the best shopping and dining anywhere in the world to make an incredibly attractive package. For most visitors it’s a life-long love affair, as they return time and time again to enjoy all that Dubai has to offer. It’s also a city that wears its heart on its sleeve, offering the warmest of welcomes and impeccable standards of service. Any trip to Dubai leaves a lasting impression, capturing the imagination with memories to treasure. As February invokes themes of romance, it’s a fitting time to explore one of the world’s most magical cities. February’s edition of Concierge helps put an end to any Valentine’s Day gift woes with our look at a stunning selection of gem-encrusted ladies’ watches to delight that special someone in your life. While you soak up one of the world’s best shopping destinations, our feature on international fashion week trends should help you find this season’s key pieces, while our guide to souk shopping on page 42 is an indispensable aid in unlocking some of the city’s most unique treasures. Get to the very heart and soul of Dubai with our feature on its hidden histories, charting the rich cultural background sewn into the emirate’s most famous landmarks. Passions are set to run high this month as the tennis elite descend on the city for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, held from February 18 to March 2. Our guide to the event, on page 76, profiles the big names coming to town and the highlights spectators can expect as tennis fever takes hold. The dhow racing season is also upon us and, as a flurry of the majestic vessels take to the waves, discover their fascinating history and relevance today on page 66. With no shortage of show-stopping restaurants and bars, a Valentine’s Day meal could hardly be more romantic than in Dubai. From private dinners on the beach with your own butler in attendance to the finest cuisine enjoyed in the desert under a canopy of stars, simply turn to our TASTE section, plus discover Dubai’s take on traditional afternoon tea with our selection of the wide variety available, from fashion-inspired teas to elegant affairs boasting the finest fancies, they’re all on page 96. Enjoy your stay in Dubai and SHOP, DISCOVER, EXPERIENCE and TASTE the best of the city with Concierge.
In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh Location: Fazza Falconry Championships, Al Awir Free Zone – Dubai Bypass Road
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。
_WELCOME_DXB FEB13.indd 11
Majestic and regal, the falcon is an important part of the UAE’s cultural heritage. Once a lifeline for the desert Bedouin who relied on the birds to hunt for food, falconry is now one of the UAE’s best loved sports. Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh captures the very essence of these wonderful birds in an exclusive photo essay on page 58.
22/01/2013 12:30
contents FEBRUARY 2013 / Issue 102
16/ESSENTIALS
The emirate’s top attractions, news and events
21/SNAPSHOT
The Dubai Fountain’s stunning show
23/SHOP 24/TIME FOR ROMANCE
Dazzling watches in time for Valentine’s Day
30/VIEW FROM THE FRONT ROW
New season trends for style-conscious shoppers
36/POETRY IN MOTION
Carlo Palmiero unveils his new jewellery watch collection
42/ARTISAN ATTRACTIONS
Treasure hunting among Dubai’s atmospheric souks
49/DISCOVER 50/HIDDEN HISTORY
Journey into the past with a visit to these historic landmarks
56/HUNTERS IN HARMONY
An introduction to the art of falconry in the UAE
58/BEDOUIN BOND The close bond between falcon and handler revealed in our captivating photo essay
66/CHARTED TERRITORY
73/TOURIST TRAIL Explore island life on Palm Jumierah
_CONTENTS_DXB FEB13_AT.indd 13
Bulgari Serpenti
With dhow racing season in full flow, learn the history of these impressive vessels
23/01/2013 17:11
contents FEBRUARY 2013 / Issue 102
75/EXPERIENCE 76/HOLDING COURT
Get set for a thrilling fortnight of sport served up at The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
82/IT TAKES TWO Romantic adventures for couples to enjoy
89/TASTE 90/COME DINE WITH ME Private dining experiences for a meal to remember
96/THE TEA SET Concierge takes afternoon tea, Dubai style
Q 103/THE GUIDE
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai
Comprehensive listings to plan the perfect stay
_CONTENTS_DXB FEB13_AT.indd 14
124/MY DUBAI
Simone Heng, Philip Stein watch ambassador for the Middle East, shares her city highlights
23/01/2013 17:11
essentials
Brought to you in association with
FEBRUARY
EXPERIENCE Cirque du Soliel Dralion
Prepare to be amazed as this world-famous production puts on a spectacular show drawing on eastern philosophy. Expect a variety of high-flying acrobatics including hoop diving and double trapeze, all created especially for the show at Dubai World Trade Center. When: February 6. For tickets visit platinumlist.ae
16
REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_DXB FEB13.indd 16
23/01/2013 17:23
DISCOVER
EVENTS IN BRIEF
Emirates Classic Car Festival
E m i r at e s A i r l i n e D u b a i J a z z F e s t i va l
Back for its fifth year running, the Emirates Classic Car Festival is the Middle East’s premier showcase of vintage automobiles and motor bikes. Taking place at Downtown Dubai’s Emaar Boulevard, which overlooks Burj Khalifa, this threeday weekend spectacular is a must for car enthusiasts and a great family day out. When: February 7 to 9. How much: Free. Contact: emiratesclassiccarfestival.com
February 14 The 11th annual Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival kicks off on February 14 until 22. Dubai’s Festival Park will host the nineday musical extravaganza with headline acts including British metal band Deep Purple and American rockers OneRepublic (pictured). Contact: 04 3911196.
SHOP
Dubai Shopping Festival Style mavens should be sure to catch the concluding days of The Dubai Shopping Festival. Visitors can purchase this season’s trends and enjoy generous discounts in the final days of the event at malls throughout the emirate. The festival ends on February 3. Contact: dubaishoppingfestival2013.com
Al Marmoum Camel R a c i n g Se a s o n February 6 to 7 Witness the time-honoured tradition of camel racing as the season begins at the Al Marmoum Camel Racetrack on Dubai Al Ain Road. This two-day family event is part of the efforts to preserve this muchloved part of Emirati and Arab culture. For details visit dcrc.ae
Michael Jackson H i s t o r y S h o w II February 15 to 20 Relive musical history as Kenny Wizz, dubbed the world’s ‘best Michael Jackson impersonator’, presents a dazzling tribute to the king of pop. The Madinat Theatre will be transformed with a live band, choreographed dancers and legendary costumes direct from Las Vegas. For tickets visit madinattheatre.com
The Stone Roses February 21 British super-group The Stone Roses are to appear live at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. The band is expected to perform hits such as ‘She Bangs The Drums’ and ‘Fools Gold’. For tickets call 04 4390900
D u b a i P o l o G o l d C u p Se r i e s February 25 to March 15 Held at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series hosts some of the world’s best polo teams and players. Enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns or at the VIP stands. For tickets call 050 1190732.
17
REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_DXB FEB13.indd 17
23/01/2013 15:27
Ask the concierge M a r k C o r p u s, c h i e f c o n c i e r g e at Fa i r m o n t T h e Pa l m , d u b a i g i v e s h i s r e c o mm e n dat i o n s f o r a r o m a n t i c s tay i n t h e c i t y
For a romantic night out, I would urge guests to look no further than Bã Restaurant & Lounge, at Fairmont The Palm, Dubai. Guests will be able to dine outdoors on the terrace, under a canopy of stars while appreciating the brightly lit Dubai Marina skyline and listening to the gentle waves of the sea. Bã celebrates a full spectrum of regional cuisines from the bold and pungent flavours of Szechuan to the seasonal ingredients of Jiangsu, along with an abundance of seafood from Shandong and the wellbalanced Cantonese dishes of Hong Kong and Guangdong. If you’re looking for a high-end night spot after dinner, take your pick from Cavalli Club, People by Crystal or Armani/Privé and you’ll be guaranteed an evening filled with giltz and glamour. For all shopping requirements I recommend The Dubai Mall, the largest retail development in the world with over 1,200 retail shops including luxurious brands. There are also a number of entertaining day trips to enjoy. If you’re interested in a yacht cruise, our dedicated concierge team can organise any guest request tailored to your preferences, from fishing and cruising, to exclusive romantic trips. Why not take to the skies for a bird’s-eye perspective of the city with a Seawings Aerial Tour, or get up close and personal with the marine life with a swim at Dolphin Bay. Dubai is filled with incredible scenery that will create a lasting impression and two sights that I highly recommend are Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and Burj Al Arab, which is an icon of the city.
experience
Dubai World Cup Carnival Equine fans will be pleased to hear they don’t have to wait until the Dubai World Cup on March 30 for racing action because the Meydan Masters International Jockey Challenge is already in full swing. A number of fixtures will take place throughout February and March, concluding with the Dubai World Cup. Contact: dubairacingclub.com
TASTE Shisha
Immerse yourself in local culture by sampling flavoured tobacco through a shisha (water pipe). This highly sociable pastime sees groups of friends meet and share flavours such as apple, grape and mint. Places to enjoy shisha include The Courtyard Restaurant at Al Manzil Hotel, Al Khayal, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Khaymat AlBahar at Madinat Jumeirah Hotel - Al Qasr.
18
REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_DXB FEB13.indd 18
23/01/2013 15:27
TASTE
Dinner Cruise Relax and unwind on a dinner cruise along Dubai’s atmospheric creek. As you cruise along, enjoy the eclectic sights including abras (water taxis) plying the waterway and a stunning mixture of old and new architecture. Traditional dhow cruises feature food, live music and belly dancing. Bateaux Dubai offers a more contemporary dinner cruise experience. For a list of cruise operators, turn to page 110.
SHOP
Montblanc The epitome of masculinity and fine craftsmanship, Montblanc presents the latest addition to its exclusive Villeret 1858 Collection this month, the Régulateur Nautique Chronograph. Inspired by the history of navigation and nautical journeys, this extraordinary timepiece is limited to just 16 pieces worldwide. So much more than a watch, this is the ultimate style statement of a modern man. Contact: 04 4340300.
discover Bastakiya
If you’re keen to experience a more traditional side of the city, the Bastakiya quarter is a cultural melting pot and your chance to see the emirate as it was in days gone by. Rich with galleries, souks and views of Dubai Creek, this bustling area is the city’s oldest district. To discover more about Dubai’s most historical landmarks, turn to our heritage feature on page 50.
19
REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_DXB FEB13.indd 19
22/01/2013 19:26
PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH
S NA P S HOT
When fire meets water The Dubai Fountain has long been a focal point of Downtown Dubai with its dancing fountain displays every evening. Now, for a limited time, the majestic spectacle is even more exceptional. Set against an impressive backdrop of Burj Khalifa, Water, Fire & Light is an exhilarating multimedia show which features 79 performers from around the world, cascades of water and bursts of fire timed perfectly to rousing music, as well as projections on a 210-metre screen. Together they tell the story of the natural and cultural elements of the world and how they all come together. With twice daily shows at 8pm and 10pm until February 4, this is a must-see extravaganza for visitors and residents alike.
21
REGULARS_SNAPSHOT_Dubai fountain_DXB FEB13.indd 21
23/01/2013 17:24
shop Aigner
Inspired by extravagant parties and ‘joie de vivre’, Aigner’s spring/summer 2013 collection packs a pretty punch with delicate chiffons and voluminous silhouettes. An explosion of colour adorns both clothes and accessories. Ideal for both day and night, celebrate your style with sophistication. Aigner is available at Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall.
23
SHOP OPENER_Aigner_DXB FEB13.indd 23
21/01/2013 18:00
Time For Romance With February marking St Valentine’s Day and the month of romance, prepare to fall in love with a stunning selection of gem-encrusted timepieces
Q Words Naomi Chadderton
A beautifully designed wristwatch adds a touch of sophistication to any moment in time and the world’s finest timepiece creators are offering a stunning array of enchanting watches that make ideal gifts for that special someone. As February brings a sense of romance, it is the perfect time to invest in a decorative design. From brilliant-cut diamonds to glittering gemstones, Concierge has uncovered some of the most stunning ladies’ watches around. Whether its Boucheron’s hot pink Crazy Jungle watch paved with rhodonite, diamonds and orange, pink and yellow sapphires, or Graff’s delicate diamond timepiece, there’s something for every taste.
24
W a t che s / s hop
Bulgari Serpenti
1
25
SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB13.indd 25
21/01/2013 18:03
sho p/ Wa tches
Breguet Marie-Antoinette Dentelle
2
Inspired by legendary French queen Marie Antoinette, Breguet is redefining elegance with its new version of the Marie-Antoinette Dentelle watch. Created in the colour of love with a hot red strap, this white gold number is set with 70 brilliant-cut diamonds with a mother-of-pearl dial. The stunning sphere is paved with 98 brilliant-cut diamonds while a stunning 1.2-carat ruby is housed inside. For true watch aficionados, it is fitted with a self-winding movement for a beautiful yet technical masterpiece. 3
Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Lady Ultra Thin The Grande Reverso Lady Ultra Thin is a timeless classic embodying the ideal blend of Art Deco style and elegance. Especially for Valentine’s Day, the Swiss brand has dressed its latest model with a double-tour red strap by luxury leather goods brand Valextra. Transforming it into a much-coveted fashion accessory, the two houses began their collaboration in 2012 as a way to allow ladies to adorn themselves in the ultimate of luxury timepieces. It is the perfect gift for sophisticated women with a stylish streak.
An iconic heritage piece from the house of Bulgari, the Serpenti watch has been making waves among watch lovers for several decades. In its latest form, the stunning 18-karat gold Serpenti bracelet features a pink gold double wrap-around structure set with brilliant-cut diamonds
Bulgari Serpenti
4 5
An iconic heritage piece from the house of Bulgari, the Serpenti watch has been making waves among watch lovers for several decades. Reinventing the classic design, Bulgari has been updating its universal reptile theme for generations, creating some of the Rome-based jeweller’s finest pieces. In its latest form, the stunning 18-carat gold Serpenti bracelet is created using traditional goldsmithing techniques, with a pink gold double wrap-around structure clothed in jet black or eggshell white scales set with brilliantcut diamonds. The case, shaped like a snake’s head, houses a Swiss quartz movement and is set with six brilliant-cut diamonds on either side.
Graff Galaxy
1 2 3 4
Bulgari Serpenti (previous page) Breguet Marie-Antoinette Dentelle Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso Lady Ultra Thin Bulgari Serpenti 5 Graff Galaxy
One of the newest watches from Graff Diamonds, this feminine and delicate timepiece binds the brand’s brilliant fusion of design with craftsmanship and exclusive Swiss watchmaking. A definite eye-catcher, it comprises 45 diamonds making it a unique and extremely exceptional gift for that someone special. Hand-selected and set at the Graff workshops in London, over 30 carats of stunning gemstones make for a timeless masterpiece. Each stone is scattered across the bracelet at different elevations for a creative finish.
26
SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB13.indd 26
23/01/2013 15:30
VERSACE.COM
THE DUBAI MALL | VERSACE JEWELLERY BOUTIQUE |+97144341570
sho p/ Wa tches
Boucheron Crazy Jungle Hathi A beautiful explosion of colour, this romantic timepiece takes pride of place on every fashion-forward woman’s wrist this season. Part of Boucheron’s Crazy Jungle collection, this striking watch pays tribute to the brand’s Animaux de Collection by featuring a whole host of exotic creatures. The Crazy Hathi Elephant watch in pink gold is set with rhodonite, diamonds, orange, pink and yellow sapphires and onyx. The watch also offers another special feature by replacing the usual seconds hand by a disk. The brand’s master craftsmanship is further expressed in the sleek mother-of-pearl inlay and engraving.
Hermès Arceau Ecuyere Sleek and elegant with plenty of sparkle, the new Hermès Arceau Ecuyère is a must for style-conscious ladies. The renowned design house has updated the acclaimed Arceau line with a selection
6
STOCKISTS Breguet
04 3398496 Jaeger-LeCoultre Grande Reverso
04 3398769 Bulgari
04 3308834 Graff
Graff Boutique Burj al Arab, 04 3307717 Graff Boutique The Dubai Mall, 04 3399795 Boucheron
Boucheron, Mall of the Emirates, 04 3410030
7
Palmiero
04 4341227 Jaeger-LeCoultre La Rose Blanche
04 3398769
6 Boucheron Crazy Jungle Hathi 7 Hermès Arceau Ecuyere 8 Jaeger-LeCoultre La Rose Blanche
of show-stopping timepieces made with the highest level of craftsmanship. The new collection is composed of six models, one in gem-set steel, two in rose gold, and two in gem-set rose gold with a matt blue, havana or black alligator strap. This rose gold version is gem-set while its dial is in natural white mother-of-pearl surrounding a silvered central zone. A beautiful finishing touch sees the crown of the watch set with a rose-cut diamond.
Jaeger-LeCoultre La Rose Blanche
8
For those with an artistic eye, JaegerLeCoultre’s La Rose Blanche Timepiece is the perfect example of a fine jewellery collection. Part of the brand’s Haute Joaillerie line, this stunning piece focuses on the art of gem setting, sporting dazzling diamonds and sapphires. Representing breathtaking beauty with its precious f lower design, expect to see this exceptional timepiece on the wrists of a very lucky few this Valentine’s Day.
28
SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB13.indd 28
23/01/2013 15:31
30
ERMANNO SCERVINO S/S 2013
t re n d re port / s hop
View from the front row Inspired by the new round of international fashion shows taking place this month, Concierge reports on this season’s catwalk trends, highlighting key pieces coming soon to Dubai’s luxury boutiques
Q W O R D S B Y n a o m i c h a dd e r t o n
As winter draws to a close, it’s time to say goodbye to the opulent brocades, metallics and embellishments that dominated the season and welcome in an air of simplicity for spring. With the style set turning their attention to back-to-basics black, power suits, stunning prints and vibrant colour blocks, there are plenty of ways to reinvigorate your wardrobe and there’s no better place to do so than Dubai. Regarded as the shopping capital of the Middle East, the emirate is home to a variety of premier malls including the world’s largest shopping and entertainment hub, The Dubai Mall. This jewel in the crown boasts an incredible 1,200 stores including around 70 dedicated to top designers. It comes as no surprise then that many of the world’s most luxurious brands have built a strong presence in the emirate, with plush boutiques and extensive selections that are sure to keep even the most jet set shoppers satisfied. To help get your shopping trip off to a great start, Concierge has compiled four of the most sophisticated trends for S/S ’13, with advice on some choice pieces that encapsulate the look, including where to find them.
31
SHOP_TREND REPORT_(AUH_DEC12) DXB FEB13.indd 31
23/01/2013 15:39
SHO P/ TREN D REPO RT
The new power suit Workwear is due a shake up for S/S ’13 as designers embrace the new power suit in all its glory. The season’s perennial player, everyone from Dior and Lanvin to DKNY is putting its sartorial stamp on professional dressing with two-pieces that will excel from nine to five and beyond. Look to Dior’s new collection for simple silhouettes, where Creative Director Raf Simons has created sleek black suits with a Parisian-chic feel. For a more gothic take on the trend, Alber Elbaz worked bold-shouldered
structures into his collection for Lanvin – the perfect pairing for those who really mean business. Ralph Lauren’s Latin-Americaninspired line features sharp monochrome trouser suits that verge between smart-casual and businesslike, making them perfect for rushing between daytime and dinner.
6 5
7
Ralph Lauren, Mall of the Emirates 04 3414200 Lanvin, The Dubai Mall 04 3308008 Pucci, The Dubai Mall 04 3398525 Alexander McQueen, The Dubai Mall 04 3398760 Dior, The Dubai Mall 04 3308739
2 3
1
4 1&2 Alexander McQueen 3 Pucci 4&5 Dior 6 Lanvin 7 Ralph Lauren 8 Louis Vuitton 9 Etro 10 Louis Vuitton
Pioneering the trend, Marc Jacobs worked a black and white colour palette into graphic designs for both his own collection and that of Louis Vuitton
8
Monochrome chic Fashion houses such as Marc Jacobs, Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton have put a new spin on monochrome especially for the new season. Light years away from the over-the-top prints of seasons past, this popular pairing is represented in block separates as well as stripes and checks on a whole host of catwalk designs.
9
Pioneering the trend, Marc Jacobs worked a black and white colour palette into graphic designs for both his own collection and that of Louis Vuitton. Choosing stripes for his own label – a trend also favoured by Michael Kors, Oscar de la Renta and Dolce & Gabbana – Jacobs sent multiple variations down the runway from Breton to vertical stripes in varying degrees of thickness. For Louis Vuitton, Jacobs ensured a good half of his collection worked the checks trend, winning a firm stamp of approval from those at the cutting edge. The most popular of the bunch, Karl Lagerfeld, offered minimalist evening dresses and chic tweed jackets at Chanel, while Ralph Lauren’s collection is also highly covetable. For a more classic way to capture the style, black and white separates can be teamed together for a sophisticated evening look. Louis Vuitton Vuitton, The Dubai Mall 04 3308060,
10
Etro, Mall of the Emirates 04 3411014
32
SHOP_TREND REPORT_(AUH_DEC12) DXB FEB13.indd 32
23/01/2013 15:39
al qasr
Burj Al Arab
+971 4 4243892
+971 4 3483181
Atlantis
Jumeirah Beach
+971 4 4226717
+971 4 3488102
DUBAI MALL
Zabeel Saray
+971 4 4341227
+971 4 4357556
SHO P/ TREN D REPO RT
Sunshine shades Providing a vibrant pop of colour into the mix, highoctane shades applied across minimalist silhouettes is also a leading trend. Bright and uplifting, the palette is everything one would expect for summer, with rainbow shades ranging from sunshine yellows and acid greens to hot pinks and fiery reds. Pioneering the trend, Frida Giannini injected a modern elegance into her work for Gucci with lean fuchsia trouser suits and aqua evening gowns. For evening glamour, Etro raised the stakes with breathtaking floor-length gowns in an array of beautifully bright hues. Similarly, Michael Kors embraced block colour in its line of coats and daytime dresses, while Carolina Herrera’s lace orange maxi dress caused a real stir. For those who want to follow the trend, neon bags and show-stopping shoes can be added to diffuse the effect. Offering a spectrum of ensembles for the style-conscious shopper, the future is definitely bright when it comes to this wardrobe. Gucci, The Dubai Mall 04 3398953 Michael Kors, The Dubai Mall 04 3253491 11
13
14
Carolina Herrera, The Dubai Mall 04 3398132 Louis Vuitton, The Dubai Mall 04 3308060
12
Asian influence
15
Exotic destinations of the world often serve as inspiration for new collections and this time it’s the Far East that’s taking centre stage. Kicking off proceedings, Muccia Prada created origami-detailed duchesse satin designs using a traditional folding technique for a tough yet light look and feel. Similarly, collections from Etro, Pucci and Dries Van Noten are inspired by Far East Asia, with Oriental prints and origami shapes gracing everything from silk pyjamas to satin dresses. Carolina Herrera offered an especially pretty take on the trend, with stunning evening dresses in an array of candy-coloured hues and feminine floral prints. The key separate for this trend, a kimono-style jacket is a must-buy. For the most stylish of the bunch, look to Etro, whose graphic f loral prints are already adorning a wave of A-listers.
11 Carolina Herrera 12 Louis Vuitton 13 Michael Kors 14 Gucci 15 Emilio Pucci 16 Etro 17 Jimmy Choo Bex
16
Jimmy Choo, The Dubai Mall 04 339 8925 Etro, Mall of the Emirates 04 3411014 Pucci, The Dubai Mall 04 3398525 Carolina Herrera, The Dubai Mall 04 3398132
17
34
SHOP_TREND REPORT_(AUH_DEC12) DXB FEB13.indd 34
22/01/2013 19:09
TOURBILLON SQUELETTE
Majestic - Official Agent:
UAE: Abu Dhabi - Majestic Palace, Abu Dhabi Mall, Dubai: Majestic - Al Maktoum Street, Damas - Burj Al Arab, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Mina Al Salam, Emirates Towers, Wafi City, Levant: Al Qasr, Atlantis, Bahrain: Asia Jewellers, Qatar: Al Jaber Watches, Kuwait: Majestic Palace, Turkey: Empire
hysek.com
Poetry in motion Inspired by the Japanese Haiku, the new jewellery watch collection by Carlo Palmiero marks the company’s first foray into timepieces. The acclaimed Italian designer shares his vision exclusively with Concierge
Q W o r d s b y F ay e R o w e
As one of the most influential figures in the high-end jewellery industry, Carlo Palmiero exudes all the presence you’d expect from a man who has built a successful company from the ground up. Yet while he may be best known for crafting elaborately designed jewels, as well as his shrewd business sense, Carlo is a man who is ruled by emotion. “Haiku is my debut jewellery watch collection so a huge amount of feeling has been poured into the designs,” Carlo tells Concierge prior to the glittering launch event at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. “While the watch line is a natural progression, it has been about a year in the making, which is why it is so important that the pieces convey all the passion that went into producing them. For me, when the customers recognise this, it is the most important test of all.” Inspecting the intricately decorated products up close, it is clear that a huge amount of work has gone into developing the unique adornments. Following the same approach Carlo takes when he makes his distinctive jewellery pieces, the gems are the heroes of each timepiece. “I pick the jewels first and then design around that,” he says.
36
Pa l mi e ro/ s hop
1
37
SHOP_PALMIERO BRAND STORY_DXB FEB13.indd 37
21/01/2013 18:07
sho p/ Pa lmiero
As the name suggests, the line is inspired by Japanese poetry – for those who need to brush up on their creative writing knowledge, a Haiku is the distinctive poem that traditionally consists of precisely 17 words, broken down into three phrases comprising five, seven and five words, respectively. The line is comprised of four designs which are all characterised by a different season depicted in various colours of precious stones. Each boasts a high-quality Swiss movement and it’s hoped that this winning combination of faultless function and creative flair will appeal to shoppers with an affinity for art and culture. The detailed design work creates the illusion of a miniature painting on the watch face, so it’s fitting that, as with any superior work of art, the pieces are limited edition with just 50 available of each. The brand’s selective approach to production also extends to its distribution, which is handled in the UAE by Levant. “We have a very good partnership with our distributor,” says Palmiero. “Levant is not afraid to choose a product that is
1 Vertigo (previous page) 2 Carlo Palmiero 3 Haiku jewellery watch 4 Carlo Palmiero and his son Fabio at the launch of the Haiku jewellery watch collection in Dubai 5 Arif Ben Khadra, Chairman of Levant (centre) and Imane El Khairi, Managing Partner, Kenza (right) with guest
2
3
The detailed design work creates the illusion of a miniature painting on the watch face, so it’s fitting that, as with any superior work of art, the pieces are limited edition with just 50 available of each different to anything else on the market. We will be displaying the new watches alongside the existing jewellery collection in order to present a complete view of the range.”
4
International clientele
5
The brand enjoys a loyal following around the world, but counts its top three markets as the Middle East, China and Russia. Choosing Dubai as the destination to debut the jewellery watches demonstrates the significance of the UAE market in particular. “The Haiku collection features designs that cater to the ever-growing number of watch aficionados in the UAE,” says Carlo. “The various colours of precious stones uniquely set in shapes and shades were chosen specifically to suit the customers’ passion for high-end luxury products.” Historically, Carlo Palmiero has created bespoke items upon request for wealthy clients in the region, including highprofile personalities in Saudi Arabia. “These orders are extra special and can
38
SHOP_PALMIERO BRAND STORY_DXB FEB13.indd 38
23/01/2013 15:41
sho p/ Pa lmiero
take up to six months to craft,” says Carlo. “Everything is handmade, so it takes time.” Carlo has been running the company as creator and owner for over 30 years and, while his efforts have propelled his name onto the international haute joaillerie circuit, his appetite for success shows no sign of waning. Working mainly from the company’s atelier in Valenza in northern Italy, Carlo is still completely hands-on with the business, leading a strong team of highly skilled goldsmiths and stone setters that work in the 2,000-square-foot atelier. In the grounds there is a stunning 500-yearold olive tree, which no doubt serves as a point of reference for many new ideas. Depending on the source of inspiration and when it strikes, it usually takes up to 18 months to create a new line.
7
8
6
“My goal is to take jewels and turn them into works of art inspired by nature and innovative ways of using colour, cut and shape,” explains Carlo. Coming from the man who has created collections inspired by everything from bubbles to mushrooms, it’s apparent that nothing is off-limits when it comes to conceptualising the next big theme. “I am inspired by many things - mainly nature, but also the art world,” he says. “Right now, I am mostly concerned with trees and grass.”
6 Onda 7 Feather 8 Vasarely 9 The Levant team at the launch of Haiku in Dubai
9
While he may not currently be in the best location for greenery, Dubai does provide a stimulating environment for the designer. “The Middle East provides ideas too, especially the arabesque style which I appreciate,” he says. “My jewels are like children, so it is difficult to say which ones I am most proud of. However, my main pleasure comes from seeing a customer that is truly satisfied with their purchase. “My goal is to keep on pouring emotion and feeling into the products. It is challenging to do this every day in the hope of creating something better and better, but it is my life. In the future, we may introduce a men’s watch line, but right now the attention is on Haiku. Levant has organised a phenomenal launch and I am confident that we can anticipate great opportunities here in Dubai.” Carlo Palmiero’s jewellery watch line is available at Levant stores across Dubai. For more information visit levant.com
40
SHOP_PALMIERO BRAND STORY_DXB FEB13.indd 40
22/01/2013 14:37
Concierge_Magazine_220x275_Okt12.indd 1
17.09.12 13:08
Artisan attractions Barter for traditional treasures and experience a glimpse of history with a visit to one of the city’s many souks
Q With shopping at the heart of any trip to Dubai, the experience isn’t complete without a wander around the city’s charming souks. For a truly authentic experience, amble around the labyrinthine passages of the gold and textile souks or treat your senses at the perfume and spice souks. Dating back thousands of years, souks are thought to have had their first incarnation in the Arab world. Originally an informal place for merchants to barter for wares, souks soon became an integral part of early city life, an important hub that facilitated both trade and social gatherings. A wide variety of products were sold, from rugs to vegetables and assorted curios from around the world. Modern souks have retained much of the character of their predecessors and are a lively place where visitors can stock up on all manner of items from unique, one-off artisan-crafted pieces to jewellery and textiles. A trip also provides a wonderful opportunity to soak up some local culture. With a souk to satisfy almost any shopping whim, Concierge highlights Dubai’s top traditional markets.
42
SHOP_SOUK SHOPPING_DXB FEB13.indd 42
22/01/2013 14:39
S OUK S HOPPI N G/ s hop
BUR DUBAI SOUK
1
43
SHOP_SOUK SHOPPING_DXB FEB13.indd 43
21/01/2013 18:15
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
FL_0_Fleurisanne_RG_ Concierge Dubai_ISTANA.indd 1
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
14.01.13 13:57
S OUK S HOPPI N G/ s hop
Gold Souk There is nothing quite like a trip to Dubai’s world-famous Gold Souk, with its endless gleaming corridors laden with gilded wares. Each shop window glints with treasures from necklaces, earrings and rings to pendants and bracelets. The dizzying choice continues with 18-, 21-, 22- and 24-karat gold and there’s a myriad of shades to consider from pink and yellow to more unusual options like purple gold. The souk offers something to suit every taste. Add to that some of the world’s most competitive gold prices and it’s a great opportunity to buy. More than 300 gold retailers have set up shop here with some of the region’s leading jewellery retailers including Damas leading the pack. Smaller, independent boutiques also proffer their gold collections at this vast souk. Located close to the Deira Corniche, the souk dates back to the 1940s when merchants from India and Iran sold their wares in the area. Nowadays, it is estimated there are approximately 10 tonnes of gold at the souk on an average day, meaning there’ll be no shortage of treasures to enjoy. Where: Deira When: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm
Tailors line the surrounding streets, ready to bring ideas to life whether it’s for an elegant gown, business suit or even textiles for the home. Stalls in and around the souk also sell a collection of souvenirs and unique finds to take home
Bur Dubai Souk An explosion of colour awaits visitors to Bur Dubai Souk, stacked high with bales of bright fabrics from India, Asia and beyond. An eclectic mix of materials can be found here with quality cottons, silks and bejewelled cloths in a rainbow of shades. It’s the perfect place to discover your inner creative streak and pick up fabric for the special, one-of-a-kind design you might have in mind. Tailors line the surrounding streets, ready to bring ideas to life whether it’s for an elegant gown, business suit or even textiles for the home. Stalls in and around the souk also sell a collection of souvenirs and unique finds to take home. Located in one of the oldest districts in Dubai, high carved ceilings lend an authentic Arabic feel, adding to the atmosphere to enjoy while you take in the sights and sounds of the souk. Where: Bur Dubai When: Daily, 10am to 10pm
45
SHOP_SOUK SHOPPING_DXB FEB13.indd 45
22/01/2013 14:41
sho p/ S O UK S HO PPIN G
Spice Souk You’ll realise the Spice Souk is close long before it comes into view, as a heady mix of aromas fill the air. A delight for the senses, the Spice Souk presents a vibrant patchwork of spices and herbs spilling out of sacks, baskets and drawers at every turn. Spices from all corners of the globe are represented here from familiar seasonings of cinnamon and cardamom to the more exotic. You’ll also find handmade incense, tobacco, rice, teas and a wide selection of dried fruit among the myriad of offerings available at this al fresco market. The striking combinations of vibrant spice shades are reason alone to pay a visit and it’s a treat for food lovers who can stock up on cooking essentials and culinary treasures. Located opposite the gold souk in Deira, it makes for a unique day out. Where: Deira When: Daily 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am until midnight
Perfume Souk To track down that special scent, pay a visit to Deira’s Perfume Souk where a network of traditional Arabic perfumers entice with endless bottles of fragrance. The latest highend perfumes sit alongside bespoke bouquets and there are plenty of eager store workers to help you choose between the sweet, spicy and fresh floral aromas. Incense is also plentiful in many forms from sticks, powders and crystals to
sprays. Arabic attars, a spicy variety of perfume specific to the region, may also be of interest and ever-popular frankincense is readily available at every store. There’s also the fascinating local perfume-buying ritual to see here, where men and women in traditional clothing gently waft the scents under their clothing to try them. Where: Deira When: Daily, 10am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm
Markets not to miss ARTE Craft Market: Artisans of the Emirates is a network of over 3,000 craftspeople across the country. The ARTE market, on Fridays in Dubai Festival City, offers pottery, jewellery, clothing and culinary treats, all made locally. Dubai Designer Market: Offers high-end pre-owned brands, including Gucci, Prada and Chanel alongside vintage gems from up-and-
coming designers. The market is based at Sky Bubble, Meydan, on the second Saturday of each month. Covent Garden Market Dubai: Peruse vintage accessories, fairtrade goods and handmade gifts at this outdoor market on The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am to 10pm.
46
SHOP_SOUK SHOPPING_DXB FEB13.indd 46
22/01/2013 14:42
A weekend of unbelievable. A lifetime of unforgettable.
Emirates Palace Hotel
Visit a world that exists beyond the imagination. Where dreams can be discovered. And unbelievable beauty, shared. And every day is filled with exquisite luxury. Here time is forgotten. Splendour is found. In a place where extraordinary moments are born. And you think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen it all? Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.
Discover more. www.visitabudhabi.ae
Discover Av a nt- g a r de a r t
The finest in French artistry is on display in Dubai this month with a stunning new avant-garde collection. The work of Corine Pagny, Yolanda Hessenburch and Guillaume Delorma is showcased at Art Couture gallery in Festival City. Entitled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dame Blanche (White Lady)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, this piece by Pagny is inspired by myths and fairies. When: Until February 27. Contact: 04 6010101.
49
DISCOVER OPENER_ _DXB FEB13.indd 49
23/01/2013 15:42
Hidden History As a window on Dubai through the decades, the city’s historical and cultural attractions provide an enriching experience that will make a lasting impression
Sleek, ultra-modern towers not only dominate the Dubai skyline, but also govern many perceptions of the city as an ode to all things modern. While the emirate has undisputedly pioneered contemporary architecture and design with gleaming high-rises, a futuristic Metro network and manmade islands such as Palm Jumeirah, these shining beacons highlight not only progress, but a rich culture and determination to prosper that is sewn through the emirate’s history. While no trip to Dubai is complete without taking in iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa or The Dubai Fountain, the city’s landscape is also peppered with historical gems allowing an insight into the city’s heritage. Concierge provides a guide to some of these fascinating locations that will enhance and inform any visit.
50
DUBAI MUSEUM
H I S T O R I C A L L A N D MA RKS / DIS COVE R
51
DISCOVER_HISTORICAL LANDMARKS_DXB FEB13.indd 51
23/01/2013 16:55
DIS C O VER /HIS TO RICAL L A NDM A RKS
Jumeirah Mosque This stunning mosque is truly a jewel in Dubai’s crown and a must for any visitor keen to learn more about UAE culture and the central role Islam plays. Thanks to an ‘Open doors, open minds’ philosophy, the mosque is one of just a few in Dubai which welcome the public and receives non-Muslim guests.
A striking silhouette on Dubai’s skyline, the sand-coloured building is a fine example of Islamic architecture. The best way to see the mosque is on a tour organised by The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10am. The informative tour takes around 75 minutes and photography is allowed inside, so don’t forget your camera. “Visitors will be able to learn more about traditional Islamic architecture and gain an insight into how prayer is conducted and what the faith encompasses,” Nasif Kayed, general manager of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, says. Modest dress is required and traditional clothing can be borrowed from the mosque where private visits can also be arranged. Evening is a particularly good time to pay a visit, to see this beautiful mosque lit up against the night sky. Where: Jumeirah Road / When: Daily from 10am How much: AED10 per person for the tour Contact: 04 3536666
Visitors will be able to learn more about traditional Islamic architecture and gain an insight into how prayer is conducted and what the faith encompasses
Heritage and Diving Village For a glimpse of the intensely varied history and culture that has helped shape Dubai as we now know it, pay a visit to the Heritage and Diving Village on the banks of Dubai Creek. This charming mostly outdoor museum offers an insight into the city’s origins as a small pearl-diving village. Other trades that plied along the Creek, at the time a trade hub in the region, extended to traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. The village takes visitors back in time through a series of reconstructions with one dedicated to pearl diving complete with black and white photographs illustrating the dangers faced by divers. Scale models of dhows and pearling boats complete the display. A Bedouin tented settlement is also recreated with traditional weapons shown alongside household utensils. A traditional Arabic coffee house offers a chance to sample local fare while a small souk sells Bedouin handicrafts. Where: Bur Dubai / When: Sun to Thu 8am to 10pm, Fri 8 to 11am and 4 to 10pm / How much: Admission free / Contact: 04 3937151
52
DISCOVER_HISTORICAL LANDMARKS_DXB FEB13.indd 52
23/01/2013 15:47
The Best of Italian Fur Brands Dubai UAE , Po Box 211485, JBR The Walk tel .: +97144541338 www.prfurs.com
DIS C O VER /HIS TO RICAL L A NDM A RKS
Dubai Museum Step back in time at an innovative experience that expertly merges Dubai’s past and present. Dubai Museum tells the story of the emirate, before the discovery of oil, from the first pearl fishermen who settled on the banks of the Creek to the desert Bedouin who roamed the dunes. Housed in Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1799, the structure itself is a wonderful example of a desert fort complete with cannons and battlements. Considered the oldest structure in Dubai, it is also the spot where leaders, such as former ruler HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, would have conducted government business. Start with a meander through the main building which houses the military museum
with replica weapons, costumes and battle scenes detailing the fort’s original purpose. There is a myriad of innovatively presented information to soak up. Lifesized exhibitions transport visitors inside a busy souk or peak behind the doors of a traditional Emirati home. Visitors will leave Dubai Museum better informed on the city’s history and culture, with knowledge to treasure forever.
Where: Bur Dubai When: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm How much: AED3 for adults, AED1 for children under six / Contact: 04 3531862
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding For a deeper appreciation of everyday life in Dubai, this inspiring centre is well worth a visit. With the aim of building awareness between the many cultures in Dubai, this non-profit organisation strives to educate on the history and religion of the UAE. Established under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 1998, a lively programme of events takes place each day. The Cultural Breakfast and Lunch is a chance for guests to experience a traditional Emirati meal in the wonderful setting of Bastakiya, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dubai. Breakfast is on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10am priced at AED60, while lunch is held on Sundays and Tuesdays from 1pm priced at AED70. Where: Bastakiya / When: Daily, Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm and Sat 9am to 1pm How much: From AED35 per tour / Contact: 04 3536666
Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House One of the oldest homes in Dubai, this jewel of traditional Arabic architecture was once the official residence of the former ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum and as such counts private royal family photographs among its many treasures. Located along the Creek, the home was built in 1896 as the seat of the Al Maktoum family. A grand courtyard house, its namesake is the grandfather of current Dubai ruler HH Sheikh Mohammed and it was home to the ruling family until Sheikh Saeed’s death in 1958. Later converted into a museum, the building contains an impressive array of artifacts and photographs of old Dubai, taken in the 1940s and 1950s on the Creek, in souks and at traditional celebrations. Spread throughout the impressive former royal abode’s four wings, collections also include paintings, coins, stamps and documents dating as far back as 1791. With its intricately carved wooden doors, central courtyard and wind towers, the building itself is a stunning attraction with beautiful views across the Creek. Where: Bur Dubai / When: Daily, 8am to 8.30pm / How much: AED2 / Contact: 04 3937139
54
DISCOVER_HISTORICAL LANDMARKS_DXB FEB13.indd 54
23/01/2013 15:48
Hunters in harmony
1
Falcons played a vital role in the lives of the early Bedouin inhabitants of the region and are still celebrated today as the national bird of the UAE
Winter is a busy time for the UAE’s falconers. Festivals, competitions and other events run throughout the cooler months before the highly trained birds are returned to their natural habitats at the end of the season. Last month’s Fazza Championship for Falconry in Dubai attracted widespread participation from falconers eager to pit their prize birds against the region’s best in a series of disciplines that ranged from speed challenges to diving contests. The UAE is well-represented on the international falconry scene. Emiratis make up a significant portion of the world’s falconers and have been practising the sport, in much the same way, for centuries. The difference today is that it is pleasure rather than necessity that makes the region’s falcon enthusiasts go to great lengths to secure and tame these majestic creatures before teaching them to do their bidding.
56
DISCOVER_FALCONRY_DXB FEB13.indd 56
23/01/2013 15:51
Cult ure / Disc ove r
Years ago, when the Bedouin struggled for survival in a hostile desert environment, it was the falcon that caught and supplied him with much-needed meat. Today, mementos of the birds’ past service can be seen all over the UAE, on banknotes and official documents, in paintings and architecture and at heritage centres and cultural events. Schooling the birds was and still is, a carefully engineered process. As a hunter for early inhabitants, a falcon not only had to respond to his master’s commands and return after being set loose, but also had to catch the prey without killing it. This was so Bedouin families could eat the meat in accordance with their Halal beliefs, which state that the animal must still be alive when the throat is cut and the blood is drawn. A handler must form a bond with the falcon, which can only arise from weeks of perseverance. During the early stages, the bird is kept with the trainer at all times, perched on his leather glove and shielded from distraction by a leather hood. Because the falcon’s vision is so sharp, it can be easily upset by large crowds of people or unfamiliar places. When the falcon cannot see, it is instantly calmed. As training commences, the falconer removes the hood and permits the bird to make short
2
1 A remote-controlled plane, with a feathered lure attached to rope, is chased by the falcon during training 2 Falcon with its handler 3 The birds rest on special stands
A handler must form a bond with the falcon, which can only arise from weeks of perseverance. During the early stages the bird must be kept with the handler at all times
3
flights while swinging a feathered lure (a long chord with artifical bait attached). When the bird catches the lure, he is rewarded with raw meat. Eventually, it progresses to longer distances and live prey. Then, the falcon is ready to hunt. Before all this though, the falcon must be caught. In his autobiography, former diplomat, Edward Henderson gives an account of a falcon catcher at work in which he describes how the man conceals himself in a hole in the sand and sets a trap before luring the bird with a live pigeon and trapping it in a net. These days, a common method is to attach a noose to the bait, which traps the bird when it makes a grab for the food. Most people now purchase their falcons from dealers and keep them for the duration of the hunting season before returning them to the wild. Previously, the most successful falcons would be kept in captivity for several years, but a recent law states that they must be released at the end of each season.
Now the birds are sent to the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, where they receive a full medical check-up to ensure that they are completely healthy before being released back into the wild. Each falcon is fitted with a microchip and a leg ring to aid future identification and then put through a rigorous exercise programme and given extra food to boost its chances of survival in the first few weeks of release. Of course, today’s falconers are only in it for the sport. Hunting with falcons has been banned in the UAE to protect the falcon’s natural prey species such as houbaras (bustards) and karawan (stone curlews). Yet while the practical use for the birds has long died out, it is by no means forgotten. On the contrary, owning, training and flying a falcon is a popular and vital way of tapping into UAE history and maintaining a link with the region’s local traditions. For a unique insight into the beauty of the sport, turn the page to see our exclusive photo essay.
57
DISCOVER_FALCONRY_DXB FEB13.indd 57
23/01/2013 15:52
bedouin bond The art of falconry requires patience, perseverance and dedication. Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh presents a captivating portrait of the graceful birds and their skilled handlers
58
PHOT OS HOOT / DIS COVE R
59
DISCOVER_PHOTOSHOOT_Falconry_DXB_FEB13_REVISED.indd 59
22/01/2013 18:03
Once the close bond between handler and falcon is achieved, the bird will respond to his master's calls, returning after being set loose
60
DISCOVER_PHOTOSHOOT_Falconry_DXB_FEB13_REVISED.indd 60
22/01/2013 18:03
A special hood is placed on the falconâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head to cover its eyes when at rest. The hoods help the birds stay calm as their razor sharp vision means they are easily agitated by the surrounding environment
61
DISCOVER_PHOTOSHOOT_Falconry_DXB_FEB13_REVISED.indd 61
22/01/2013 18:03
Falcons have incredible hunting skills, superb flying abilities and exceptional vision. Tapered wings allow the birds to change direction quickly and with ease, making their prey an easy target
62
63
A handler's kit includes a thick glove, hood, feathered lure and falcon stand
64
DISCOVER_PHOTOSHOOT_Falconry_DXB_FEB13_REVISED.indd 64
22/01/2013 18:04
A handler must form a close bond with each falcon which takes many weeks. During the early stages, the bird is kept with its handler at all times, perched on his leather glove. It is then released back into the wild when the falconry season ends
65
DISCOVER_PHOTOSHOOT_Falconry_DXB_FEB13_REVISED.indd 65
23/01/2013 15:56
charted territory Elegant ships effortlessly slice through the ocean waves while crisp white sails billow against a backdrop of skyhigh towers. Dhow racing’s blend of Arabian tradition with modern sporting life makes for an unmissable experience
Q Encapsulating the very essence of the UAE as the perfect harmony between the old and new, the dhow racing season, now upon us, has become an essential fixture on the city’s sporting and social calendar. Drawing on the emirate’s historic links to the sea, dhow racing, dubbed one of the most beautiful marine sports in the world, attracts boating enthusiasts from around the globe each year with millions of dirhams in prizes at stake and a host of events and races to attend. The prestigious Al Gaffal race in May is the highlight of the season when teams battle for the coveted winner’s trophy. Spectators in their thousands enjoy the stunning spectacle as these majestic vessels take to the waves and there’s also the exclusive opportunity to follow the action up close from a spectator boat.
66
D HOW S / DIS COVE R
67
DISCOVER_DHOWS_DXB JAN13.indd 67
21/01/2013 18:29
SOF CONC Vlntne 220x275 v10.indd 2
17/01/2013 13:44
D HOW S / DIS COVE R
Before witnessing a race, it’s worth brushing up on the history of the sport. The dhows raced today are based on those that were part of everyday life in the region around 2,000 years ago. Traditionally, the boats were used for fishing and pearl diving – industries that kept the Gulf economy buoyant long before the discovery of oil. They are recognisable by their distinctive sails, called lateens, which look triangular, but actually have four sides. These days racing dhows are still built by hand with teak hulls, especially for racing events. Only a few modern adaptations set the boats apart from their ancient predecessors. The sail support spar is now constructed from carbon fibre rather than wood and sails themselves are made from polyester cloth instead of the traditional cotton to increase stealth and speed.
The dhows raced today are based on those that were part of everyday life in the region around 2,000 years ago
The lack of modern aids, such as engines, ensures that it’s still a challenge to sail the vessels and steer them over the finishing line. Crews are expertly trained in order to man the vessels, which are loaded with sand bags in the hold for balance. Managing the balance and weight of the dhow is a science mastered by the skilled crews who deftly shift the sand bags as needed, or even throw them overboard to increase speed when the wind picks up. Often, daring crews are spotted precariously hanging over the side of the vessels to keep them stable – boats have been known to capsize. Controlling the boats requires a keen eye and steady hand. The only aid to the crews is the wind. There are three classes of dhow, the 22ft is sailed by a crew of four, 43ft with a crew of 12 and the 60ft has a team of 24 on board. Preparation is vital for the teams as the sails and hulls of the boat need to be in excellent condition, any breakage can detract from points won during the race. While muscle power is essential, the real key to a successful crew is teamwork, says Sid Bin Salah, director, sports department, strategy and development at Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC). “The basics are like modern sailing, but you have different ways of tuning the boat and getting it up to speed. It’s the teamwork which makes the difference, ” he says. “The dhows are very fast and powerful. If the wind is 12 to 15 knots, the boats can reach speeds of up to 20 knots, which is extremely fast,” he adds.
69
DISCOVER_DHOWS_DXB JAN13.indd 69
23/01/2013 15:57
DIS C O VER /DHO WS
Keen to revive traditional crafts in the region, the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid al Maktoum, launched the first dhow races, which took place in 1986 at DIMC near the city’s modern marina at Mina Seyahi. Since then, the sport’s popularity has steadily grown. The races have attracted backing from premier sponsors such as Louis Vuitton with huge prize purses of around AED10 million. The most prestigious of races and the climax of the season is Dubai’s Al Gaffal, which this May will mark its 23rd year. The route runs 50 nautical miles from Sir Bu Nair Island, east of the UAE, to the Dubai International Marine Club, a challenging journey of more than five hours. Last year, almost 100 vessels took part. “It’s the biggest traditional sailing race in the world,” says Sid Bin Salah. “With the crews and the organisers, there are 5,000 people on the water. It’s broadcast live on television and there is AED10 million in prize money. It’s an exciting, impressive event, ” he adds. The whole spectacle of dhows battling against each other and racing for the finishing line makes for an incredible day out. It can be watched live on screens at DIMC, but can also be viewed from many different vantage points along the course. Organisers do try to set the route along the shoreline, passing close to a number of Dubai’s premier hotels, including Atlantis
R a c e d at e s The Dubai International Marine Club dhow and traditional boat racing fixtures this year are: February 2, 43ft Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race February 16, Dubai Traditional Rowing Race February 22, Abra Mina 10-kilometre Race February 23, 22ft Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race March 2, 22ft Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race March 29, Maktoum Cup Traditional Rowing Race April 13, 22ft Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race April 20, 60ft Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race May 18, Al Gafal Long Distance Race from Sir Bu Nair Island to Mina Seyahi Contact: dimc.ae or 04 3995777
The Palm, Dubai and Burj Al Arab hotels. To enjoy a real taste of the action, it’s also quite common for enthusiasts to take to the water and watch from another boat. The electric atmosphere sees spectators in their thousands crowd to watch the fastpaced action and frantic crews command their grand vessels. With land-based stalls and activities, such as play areas for children and food and beverage outlets, a typical dhow sailing event attracts interest from sailing enthusiasts and those simply wanting to build their expeience of the sport. Often whole families are involved in the sport of dhow racing, while teenagers are also encouraged to take part in the 22ft sailing classes. “The most unique thing you will find is one family with three or four boats and the son, the father, the grandpa will all be on board. Dhow racing is part of the culture of the UAE,” says Sid Bin Salah.
70
DISCOVER_DHOWS_DXB JAN13.indd 70
23/01/2013 15:58
Life Begins Sixty Three Floors Up If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen the Dubai Fountain from the 63rd floor, prepare to be dazzled beyond belief. Welcome to Neos at The Address Downtown Dubai where the music from our live DJ, the ambience and the refreshments take the lounging experience to fabulous new heights.
MONDAY & TUESDAY
SATURDAY & SUNDAY
Relive the glamour of the roaring twenties. All the classic tunes served up with some truly classic drinks.
Shaken, stirred, or served straight, our signature creations are guaranteed to add a refreshing twist to your evening. The perfect start to the new week!
Follow us on
facebook.com/NeosDubai
T: +971 4 888 3444
dine@theaddress.com
theaddress.com
T OURI S T T RA I L / DIS COVE R
Making Waves
1
Stretching out into the ocean, Palm Jumeirah blends luxury experiences and thrilling entertainment in an iconic location every visitor will enjoy
As one of Dubai’s distinctive stamps on the world, Palm Jumeirah is also one of the city’s most popular sights. With its elegant fronds reaching out to sea, this paradise isle has redefined the concept of all things manmade. Aiming to achieve harmony with its beautiful natural surroundings, the island was designed to encourage the creation of a natural reef, providing habitats for sea life. Famed the world over for its clever creation and flawless form, this unique archipelago serves as far more than a stunning sight. Home to an incredible selection of first-class restaurants, bars, entertainment and white sand beaches, there is a huge array on offer for visitors.
1 Palm Jumeirah 2 Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Famed the world over for its clever creation and flawless form, this unique archipelago serves as far more than a stunning sight
2
Luxury resort Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, calls this idyllic island home. Five-star service awaits those who step inside its marbled halls bringing the best in fine dining, entertainment and spa relaxation. World-class cuisine is served in 20 mouthwatering restaurants. The hotel also boasts a variety of designer brands and boutiques along The Avenues shopping area. A highlight to any trip to Palm Jumeirah is Aquaventure water park, set in 42 acres with speed slides, river rapids, lush tropical landscapes and a private beach. This fun-packed water park, part of Atlantis, is a draw card for thrillseekers. The Leap of Faith tunnel slide catapults riders through a shark-filled lagoon, while The Plunger offers twists and turns as it propels riders along with water jet blasts. Splashers play area is ideal for younger children and families, while Aquaventure beach is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Elsewhere on Palm Jumeirah, there is a host of chic hotels, restaurants and bars to enjoy. Rixos The Palm Dubai is nestled in a stunning setting with gleaming beaches
and views towards Dubai’s Downtown area. Rixos’ White X Beach and Lounge is a chic spot to sip cocktails as the sun goes down. Another of the archipelago’s gems is One&Only, The Palm. Set within immaculate gardens accented with elegant fountains and sparkling pools, this exclusive resort caters to every whim of the discerning visitor. Michelin-star restaurants to sample here include Zest, The Lounge and Stay where guests are treated to the best in haute cuisine. This unique island paradise can be seen from space, but for a closer view, it’s worth taking a ride on the Palm Monorail. Opened in 2009, it runs along the trunk of the island, connecting the Gateway station at the entry with Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, at the far end. A stroll around the island allows you to take in views towards Downtown and Burj Khalifa on the mainland or out to another famous manmade island cluster, The World. Whether you are looking for fine dining or heart-stopping excitement, no trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to Palm Jumeirah.
73
DISCOVER_TOURIST TRAIL_The Palm J_DXB FEB13.indd 73
22/01/2013 15:40
experience Swing into action
Boasting a winning combination of gorgeous greens and exhilarating sporting action, The Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2013 is not to be missed. Golfing greats, including world number one Lee Westwood, are out in force at Emirates Golf Club, to battle it out in the US$2.5 million tournament. When: Until February 3. Contact: dubaidesertclassic.com
75
EXPERIENCE OPENER_Dubai Desert Classic_DXB FEB13.indd 75
23/01/2013 15:58
Holding court As an incredible roster of tennis talent takes to the courts this month at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, Concierge serves up an essential guide to the best of the action-packed contest
76
T E N N I S C H A MPI ON S HI PS / E XPE R IE NCE
Dubai has become a major draw for the international sporting elite and this month’s Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships are no exception. A gathering of the sport’s shining stars from Roger Federer to Serena Williams, this thrilling two-week contest is an occasion not to be missed. Now in its 21st year, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships promises to be even more impressive this time around. Last year’s event saw a record crowd of more than 100,000 people and a television audience of 40 million tuning in to watch the stars in action. Delighted with this year’s stellar line-up, Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman of event sponsor Dubai Duty Free, said: “The depth of the fields in both the men’s and women’s events is amazing and we can guarantee that there will be world-class action on every day of the tournament. All the top players have to make it through the early rounds so fans can witness the world’s best in action on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of each week. There will also be non-stop activities in the tennis village throughout the tournament so sports fans are encouraged to come to the village at any time throughout the fortnight to be part of the excitement.”
77
EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_DXB FEB13.indd 77
23/01/2013 09:30
41296 BD Dinner Ad For Concierge Dubai(OL).indd 1
1/22/13 5:34 PM
T E N N I S C H A MPI ON S HI PS / E XPE R IE NCE
Joining tennis legends Roger Federer and Serena Williams are world number one Novak Djokovic and women’s world number one Victoria Azarenka. In total, eight of tennis’ top 10 women and six of the top 10 men will be battling it out for the championships’ titles. Top 10 stablemates Tomas Berdych, Juan Martin Del Potro, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Janko Tipsarevic will also be on hand to put Djokovic and Federer to the test. Aside from the thrilling action on court, spectators can look forward to a host of activities across the fortnight. The Tennis Village is the place to be for all the off-court action with entertainment, music, tennis-themed games and big screens showing every volley. There will be opportunities to meet the championships’ stars with special autograph signings and competitions offering a lucky few the chance to win coveted finals tickets. The popular Catch and Win game makes a return, which gets matches off to a flying start as spectators
1
Regular fixtures such as Kids’ and Ladies’ Day will also be a favourite with those attending. The special days are a wonderful opportunity for tennis fans to get more involved in the sport and glean insider tips from the professionals
1 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium 2 Rafael Nadal 3 Martina Hingis
are given prizes for catching balls gently served into the crowd. Regular fixtures such as Kids’ and Ladies’ Day will also be a favourite with those attending. The special days are a wonderful opportunity for tennis fans to get more involved in the sport and glean insider tips from the professionals. Kids’ Day last year saw hundreds of children from across the region descend on the courts for games, competitions and coaching from the stars. 3
2
Meanwhile, Ladies’ Day sees Dubai’s fashionistas battle it out in the style stakes for the Dress To Impress crown where prizes include women’s finals tickets. There’s also the chance to pay tribute to your favourite contender on Fantastic Fan Day, where spectators are encouraged to come along dressed to support their favourite player during the men’s competition, with the best awarded prizes. Take your pick from a number of exclusive hotels within easy reach of the championships. Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, set among lush green gardens, is the perfect place to relax after a busy day watching all the action. The hotel is offering a Tennis Themed Friday Brunch at restaurant Nomad with bubbly and strawberries and the option of a picnic brunch outdoors. Owned and organised by Dubai Duty Free and held under the patronage of Dubai’s ruler HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the championships have an illustrious past. The winners’ hall of fame includes greats such as Rafael Nadal, Andy Roddick, Goran Ivanisevic and Martina Hingis. In the past decade, the event has also gathered an impressive array of awards, last year earning the ATP500 Tournament of the Year accolade. Add to that a host of top flight sponsors, which include Lacoste, Rolex and Emirates and it’s easy to see why this exciting tournament is here to stay.
79
EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_DXB FEB13.indd 79
23/01/2013 16:11
A Taste of Italy now at the Celsius All Night, every day, enjoy a delicious Italian buffet with a variety of cold cuts, antipasti, Italian bread, and all the pizza & pasta you can eat prepared just for you alongside and an extensive list of the Italian wines at Celsius Restaurant.
165 AED per person including water & soft drinks 195 AED per person including Italian wine & beer
Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai - UAE Tel: +971 4 308 0550 RRIC.royaldubai@radissonblu.com
Celsius Italian Night - Concierge 22x27.5cm E.indd 1
1/20/13 6:47 PM
T E N N I S C H A MPI ON S HI PS / E XPE R IE NCE
Player profile: Roger Federer
Player Profile: Serena Williams
Ranked world number two by ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals), Roger Federer is one of the game’s icons. Lauded as one of tennis’ best-ever players, his record makes for incredible reading with a raft of world firsts under his belt, including the holder of the world number one position for 302 weeks. The tennis ace has reached the Wimbledon final eight times and has won the tournament on seven occasions. He has also racked up five US Open wins and an Olympic silver medal in London 2012. Luxury watch brand Rolex sponsors Federer, who is nicknamed Fed Express or Fed-Ex for his lightning fast reflexes. With an apartment here in Dubai, the 31-year-old is a Dubai Duty Free Championships veteran. The Swiss favourite won his fifth Dubai title after defeating Britain’s Andy Murray last year and promises more thrilling action this time around.
One half of the world’s most famous tennis-star sisters, Williams is currently seeded world number three. Attaining the world number one title for the first time in 2002, she regained the ranking five times and is the only female tennis player to have amassed over US$40 million in prize money. She has won Wimbledon five times during her career so far and also has four US Open titles and four Olympic gold medals. With sister Venus, the pair are unbeaten in doubles Grand Slam titles. Born in Michigan, US, the youngest of five sisters, Williams was coached by her father from the age of five. Serena has played older sister Venus in 23 professional matches since 1998, with Serena winning 13 of the matches. Her winning streak has yet to extend to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships where Venus has won twice.
4
Player Profile: Novak Djokovic Serbian tennis star Djokovic is currently ranked world number one in the sport and also holds a clutch of records. He is the youngest player in the Open era to have reached the semi-finals of all four Grand Slam events both separately and consecutively. Djokovic also played the longest Grand Slam men’s singles final in recorded history at five hours and 53 minutes. The 25-year-old athlete has won Wimbledon along with the French and US Open. Born in Belgrade, Djokovic started playing tennis at the tender age of four before being spotted at just six years old. Just like rival Roger Federer, his talents stretch far beyond the racket – Djokovic is f luent in four languages, his native Serbian, English, German, and Italian. The star is also a regular on the Dubai Duty Free Championships courts, having won in 2009, 2010 and 2011.
Player Profile: Victoria Azarenka Current world number one, Azarenka moved from Minsk in Belarus to Arizona, US, at 16 to hone her tennis skills. At 23 years old, she is at the top of her game with a 2012 Australian Open singles title and is the first Belarusian player to win a Grand Slam in singles. She also won a bronze medal at the London 2012 Olympics and a gold medal in the mixed doubles. Azarenka’s grandmother is cited as one of her greatest inspirations and has encouraged her to stay in the game. 5 6
4 Serena Williams 5 Roger Federer 6 Novak Djokovic
Where: Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Garhoud When: Feb 18 to March 2 Contact: dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com , box office at Dubai Tennis Stadium, 04 4172415
81
EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_DXB FEB13.indd 81
23/01/2013 09:34
1
82
EXPERIENCE_VALENTINES ACTIVITIES_DXB FEB13.indd 82
21/01/2013 18:41
V ALE N T I NE A CT I V I T I E S / E XP E R IE NCE
It takes two If you’re at a loss as how best to spend the year’s most romantic day, let Concierge offer up a few alternative activities for a Valentine’s Day with a difference
Q WO R D S B Y C AV E L L M A L L E T T
While it may be the month that celebrates grand gestures, gourmet candies and elegant dinner dates, February also brings with it a fair amount of planning dilemmas for some. For those seeking a romantic way to spend time together, Concierge eases the pressure by providing a selection of entertaining couples’ adventures. Revered both for its new-world luxury and age-old landscapes, Dubai offers an unparalleled choice of five-star sports and leisure. As a city blessed with an enviable climate, it would be a shame to ignore the beckoning call of the great outdoors. Read on for our premier selection of Valentine’s Day activities, from dramatic hot air balloon trips, a round of golf together or and indulgent spa treatment for two.
83
EXPERIENCE_VALENTINES ACTIVITIES_DXB FEB13.indd 83
23/01/2013 16:12
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.
V ALE N T I NE A CT I V I T I E S / E XP E R IE NCE
Enjoy a round of golf
2
Benefiting from Ryder Cup star Colin Montgomerie’s insider knowledge, The Address Montgomerie Dubai golf course, designed by the Scotsman, regularly ranks as one of the Middle East’s top courses. At first glance, an attempt to take in the whole 7,396 yards links-style course, which is enfused with a touch of Arabian ambience, is an achievement well rewarded. Basking in the winter sun, these perfectly manicured fairways and greens offer a fun and relaxing afternoon out. Perfectly balanced for both the seasoned player and the beginner, the club caters to all golfing enthusiasts. There are no handicap restrictions, so those looking to take their first swing into the game can start at the driving range before attempting the popular nine-hole, parthree course. For couples that fancy themselves more as seasoned golfers, the 18-hole championship course is both challenging and rewarding. A break at the Bunker Restaurant, with picturesque views of the 18th hole is the ideal post-swing respite.
3
Location: The Address Montgomerie, Emirates Hills, Dubai Contact: 04 3905600 or visit themontgomerie.com
1 Balloon Adventures Emirates (previous page) 2&3 The Address Montgomerie Dubai 4 Nobu, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
For couples that fancy themselves more as seasoned golfers, the 18-hole championship course is both challenging and rewarding
Try a gourmet cooking class Preparing a meal together is an ideal way for many to enjoy each other’s company. Here in the city that boasts some of the best five-star restaurants in the world, first-class culinary skills can be learnt from the best in the business. Nestled within the lavish Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Nobu is the brainchild of renowned Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Considered one of Dubai’s top-ranking restaurants, the cookery classes here are led by chef de cuisine Herve Courtot. Guests can experience first hand the fine art of Japanese cuisine. For February, the menu will have a romantic theme. After an eventful session in the kitchen, it’s time to round off the experience with an elegant three-course meal, paired with Champagne and sake.
4
Location: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai / When: First Saturday of every month Cost: AED1,250 per person / Contact: 04 4260000
85
EXPERIENCE_VALENTINES ACTIVITIES_DXB FEB13.indd 85
22/01/2013 15:50
EXPE R IENCE/VA LEN T INE A CTIV ITIES
Hold the reins on a horse-riding adventure
5
Enjoying a long and illustrious equestrian history, the UAE has become well-known for its association with prize thoroughbreds. Along with hosting the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup, the emirate is abundant with equine activities for visitors to enjoy. For couples that love the great outdoors, a sunset ride at Mushrif Equestrian & Polo Club could be the perfect end to a perfect day. Located just past Dubai International Airport and Mirdiff on Al Khawaneej Road, Mushrif Park is spread over 1,300 acres of natural desert parkland. Saddle up by 4.30pm and begin a 90-minute trek through the desert, allowing riders to take in the scenic wilderness setting at sundown. Location: Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Road Cost: AED300 per person / Contact: 04 2571256 6
Take to the skies in a hot air balloon Floating across the Arabian desert at sunrise presents a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘love is in the air’. A hot air balloon flight is an incredible way to take in the heartland of the UAE with the typically towering dunes dwarfed from such a great height. While chasing the rising sun, the balloon can climb at rates of up to two metres per second. See the winds contribute to the ever-changing contours of the desert while the wandering
goats and camels below are the only other companions to your journey. It’s an early start that’s made worthwhile by the peaceful skies, breathtaking views and cool climate. After gently returning to earth, couples can enjoy some light refreshments before setting off home with a flight certificate from the pilot. Location: Balloon Adventures Emirates, Dubai Cost: AED995 per person including transfers from a designated meeting point / Contact: 04 2854949
5 Balloon Adventures Emirates 6 Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Road 7 Talise Ottoman Spa, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah
Indulge in a pampering spa treatment Action-packed travel itineraries can take their toll, so what better way to indulge in a spot of quality time with your special someone than at a world-class spa resort? Awarded one of the leading spas in the UAE, Talise Ottoman Spa at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is unforgettable. Found on the western crescent of the prestigious Palm Jumeirah, the Talise Ottoman Spa combines time-honoured practices with contemporary luxury. During the month of February guests can take their pick from romantic packages, all provided with a complimentary glass of bubbly and strawberries. Popular with newlyweds is the two-hour Arabian Nights package. Featuring a lavish body polish followed by immersion in a bath infused with goat’s milk and essential rose oil, the experience is topped off by a rejuvenating 60-minute body massage. Or, created especially with couples in mind, the spa’s Time Together treatment offers couples’ massages in the tranquil setting of a private suite. The experience need not end there either as the spa also boasts a private sauna, whirlpool, shower, Jacuzzi, steam baths and relaxation lounges overlooking the ocean.
7
Location: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah / Contact: 04 4530455
86
EXPERIENCE_VALENTINES ACTIVITIES_DXB FEB13.indd 86
23/01/2013 16:12
Taste Hukama
Savour the finest in Chinese cuisine at chic restuarant Hukama. Located within The Address Downtown Dubai, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfectly positioned for stunning views of Burj Khalifa. Modern Chinese cooking techniques are expertly blended with provincial preparation styles to create dishes like this mouthwatering Shrimp Wasabi. Contact: 04 8883444
89
TASTE_OPENER_Hukama_DXB_FEB13.indd 89
21/01/2013 18:42
Come Dine With Me For the ultimate in romance, treat that special someone to a private dining experience you’ll both cherish long after Valentine’s Day
Q You’ve taken the time to choose the perfect gift, penned meaningful words in a poignant card and lavished affection to show exactly just how significant that other half is in your life. What better way to make this Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable than by booking a coveted place at the most exclusive table in town? As our lives become increasingly more chaotic, February brings a welcome excuse to spend some quality time over a special meal. Increasingly, Dubai’s luxury venues are going the extra mile to offer a Valentine’s Day experience with a difference for the discerning couple. Tucked away from the usual hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant, couples can opt for a private table where the entire encounter is elevated to VIP status with personal service and bespoke menus. Dine in the desert beneath the stars with a telescope to gaze on canopies of stars overhead or enjoy the romance of a meal in your very own beach cabana. Thankfully, with so many incredible options available, it’s easy to make a grand declaration. Simply book a stunning private table for two and enjoy private romantic moments in one of Dubai’s many stunning settings.
90
TASTE_COME DINE WITH ME_DXB FEB13.indd 90
22/01/2013 16:06
PRI V A T E D I N I N G/ t a s t e
91
TASTE_COME DINE WITH ME_DXB FEB13.indd 91
21/01/2013 18:47
POPPING • JIGGING • BIG GAME FISHING Take nothing
but pictures.
Leave nothing but
footprints.
Kill
nothing but time.
e: ed@noboundariesoman.com t: +968 9 5951810
www.noboundariesoman.com Adventure fishing lodges : Southern Oman
No Boundaries Oman is on Facebook
*We specialise in getting you bullied by monster GT's.
PRI V A T E D I N I N G/ t a s t e
Rixos The Palm Let the sounds of breaking waves set the tone for a unique private dining experience in a Cupid Cabana on the beach. With the stars overhead and sand underfoot, the evening offers an intimate four-course gourmet seafood menu, with the option of a bottle of bubbly for some added sparkle. Couples will be presented with special gifts including a red rose and chocolates as an extra treat. A photographic shoot also comes as part of the exclusive package to create some lasting memories of the special evening. Ensuring private diners can carry on the relaxation and luxury, they are also given a voucher for a soothing couples’ treatment at Rixos Royal Spa. End the evening in style and dance under the stars with complimentary entry to the Valentine’s Party at the chic White X Beach & Lounge. Where: Rixos The Palm Dubai / How Much: AED3,000 per couple When: February 14 / Contact: 04 4575555
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa There’s hardly a more dramatic setting for a special dinner date than a table for two nestled among the desert dunes. The majesty of the desert makes for a truly unique meal and with February’s cool temperatures, it’s the ideal time to visit. Built in an Arabic fort setting, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is just a 40-minute drive from the heart of Dubai. This distinctive location boasts unparalleled views of the glittering night sky. Private-dining options include a secluded terrace experience or your very own Majlis (seated area) in the desert, both decorated with scattered red rose petals. With a choice of first-class international or Arabic cuisine from a four-course menu there are a variety
of packages available, which include either a selection of soft drinks or a choice from the bar with bubbly also an option. A private butler will be on hand to attend to your every need, with just the ring of a bell. Ladies will be presented with a bouquet of flowers and a professional photographer will leave guests with a snapshot memento of their unforgettable evening. With so much to dazzle while you dine, you could be forgiven for neglecting the roof of stars overhead. A telescope is provided to ensure there’s ample opportunity to squeeze in some stargazing. Where: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa How much: From AED5,000 per couple When: February 14 / Contact: 04 3813231
The Address Montgomerie Dubai For a delicious dinner with a difference, take a seat at your very own private table, situated right on the world-class championship golf course, by the 18th hole offering incredible clubhouse views. Designed by golfing master Colin Montgomerie and managed by Troon Golf, the lush green course provides a stunning setting for a memorable meal crafted by the hotel’s expert chefs. With a personal waiter attending to your every need and expansive greens, gardens and lakes providing a feast for the eyes, this Ultimate Valentine’s Romance private dining package will undoubtedly make for a perfect evening. Where: The Address Montgomerie Dubai How much: From AED5,000 per couple When: February 14, from 7pm / Contact: 04 8883444
93
TASTE_COME DINE WITH ME_DXB FEB13.indd 93
23/01/2013 17:50
t a st e /PRIVA TE DIN ING
Jumeirah Beach Hotel This spectacular resort provides the perfect setting for a memorable meal for two. The unique evening begins with a limousine collection from your desired location, whisking you to your very own private tent on the Jumeirah Beach Hotel’s pristine sands that boast wonderful views of Dubai’s iconic skyline. Tuck into a five-course set Valentine’s menu and bottle of bubbly. Couples can also look forward to an exclusive Valentine’s gift. The hotel itself provides a dramatic backdrop to the evening with its dynamically shaped 26-storey curved design built in the shape of a breaking wave. For an even more unforgettable night why not take to the ocean for a dinner cruise on one of the hotel’s private yachts. Dine at sea on an expertly prepared gourmet five-course menu. Where: Jumeirah Beach Hotel How much: AED3,900 per couple When: February 14, 6.30 to 11.30pm Contact: 04 4068800
As you savour an array of flavours from pumpkin soup to poached Atlantic lobster and liquid chocolate parfait, there is the added option of selecting a live harpist to provide the soundtrack to your evening
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai A bespoke dining experience, with uninterrupted views out to the Arabian Sea won’t fail to impress. The Ritz-Carlton is offering select Bedouin tents on the hotel’s private beach, which have been given the Valentine’s Day treatment with romantic decorations, candles and rose petals scattered all around. A mouth-watering four-course menu of your own design awaits from a choice of four set menus prepared by the hotel’s master chef. As you savour an array of flavours from pumpkin soup to poached Atlantic lobster and liquid chocolate parfait, there is the added option of selecting a live harpist to provide the soundtrack to your evening. A personal butler will be on hand throughout the evening, who will also serve a bottle of bubbly to toast the special celebration. Where: The Ritz-Carlton Dubai How much: AED3,000 per couple When: February 14, 7pm to midnight Contact: 04 3994141
94
TASTE_COME DINE WITH ME_DXB FEB13.indd 94
23/01/2013 16:15
FRIDAY INDULGENCE A perfect weekend getaway complemented with an unparalleled al fresco brunch
Escape to the Mediterranean-inspired St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and unwind with breathtaking views of
C
M
Y
the pristine white beach and turquoise blue ocean. Take the opportunity to indulge in Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only Friday Brunch with a view. Extend the
CM
MY
CY
experience with a late check out, one of the many reasons why.
MY
K
Package starts from AED 1,850 and includes an overnight stay with Friday Brunch, including bubbly and breakfast for two the next morning. Check-in from 3pm onwards and late check out at 4pm. The offer is available on Fridays and is subject to availability.
For more information, call +971 (2) 498 8888 or email reservations.saadiyat@stregis.com
stregissaadiyatisland.com
hotel debuts: abu dhabi bangkok bal harbour doha florence mauritius sanya shenzhen tianjin Š2011 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, St. Regis and their respective logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
The Tea Set Somewhere between lunch and dinner lies afternoon tea, a centuries-old tradition that, with a dash of Dubai style, is a blissful way to pass the time
Q The tradition of taking afternoon tea was first made fashionable in 19 th century England when the upper classes gathered to sip blends from fine china crockery and indulge in sumptuous cakes, pastries and breads. Catherine of Braganza, wife of Charles II, first introduced tea drinking to the royal court in the 17th century, but it wasn’t until the 1830s that the practice was seen as a new form of society soirée. Anne, Duchess of Bedford, requested that light sandwiches be brought to her room in the afternoons to stave off hunger pangs, as the evening meal wasn’t usually served until 8.30pm. The Duchess invited others in her inner circle to join her and the convivial custom caught on, giving birth to a timely tea tradition that has been passed down through the years. Traditionally consisting of tea with sandwiches, scones and pastries, the concept has been developed to include the finest ingredients and has become an occasion in its own right. Dubai, of course, has pinned this special tea service down to a fine art with an offering to suit any occasion and taste. From fashion-inspired menus to chocolate scones with spread, there are endless combinations to try. For a special occasion, Champagne can often be added to an afternoon tea menu for a truly memorable experience. From sipping tea at heady heights to the perfect treat on a shopping trip, Concierge savours the best afternoon teas in town.
96
TASTE_AFTERNOON TEA_DXB FEB13.indd 96
21/01/2013 18:51
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai
A FT E RN OON T E A / t a s t e
97
TASTE_AFTERNOON TEA_DXB FEB13.indd 97
22/01/2013 16:41
Best for sights: At.mosphere For the very essence of high tea, At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa offers a heady mix of fine fare, served with sensational views. Perched on level 122 of the the world’s tallest building, At.mosphere provides a uniqe setting where Dubai vistas take centre stage. While taking in the city’s panoramas stretching out below, guests can sample fresh roasted coffees, teas from around the world and a selection of show-stopping sandwiches filled with caviar, truffle and wagyu beef. Sweet treats include melt-in-the-mouth macaroons and deluxe chocolate éclairs. Guests can also choose to add a glass of Champagne for that special occasion. Where: At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa How much: From AED290 per person When: Daily, 3 to 6pm Contact: 04 8883444
Guests can sample fresh roasted coffees, teas from around the world and a selection of show-stopping sandwiches filled with caviar, truffle and wagyu beef
Best for breaking up a shopping trip: Al Bayt Within walking distance of shopping emporium The Dubai Mall, afternoon tea at Al Bayt in The Address Downtown Dubai is the perfect way to relax after a busy morning spent acquiring the latest designer fashions. Perched on the edge of a lake, the hotel represents the perfect blend of old and new and offers beautiful panoramas of The Dubai Fountain. A wonderful refresher before embarking on more retail therapy, Al Bayt’s The Palace High Tea boasts a range of exclusive teas and coffees. Speciality teas from Parisian purveyor Dammann are offered alongside traditional English scones with fresh strawberries and cream, plus a platter of finger sandwiches and pastries. Victorian Afternoon Tea is also available, including pastries and scones, complemented with a glass of fizz. Where: The Address Downtown Dubai / How much: From AED120 per person When: Daily, 2 to 6pm / Contact: 04 4287888
98
TASTE_AFTERNOON TEA_DXB FEB13.indd 98
23/01/2013 16:17
A FT E RN OON T E A / t a s t e
Best for a relaxing setting: Lobby Lounge For a chance to relax, unwind and consider all of the wonderful city sights you’ve visited, afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton Dubai’s Lobby Lounge is the perfect choice. The Lobby Lounge’s stunning design makes for a fabulous setting, with an intricate wooden ceiling and arched Palladian windows. With a range of options to suit any taste, oversized sofas allow guests to kick back and relax while terraced seating offers wonderful Gulf views. The afternoon tea menu consists of pastries with coffee and over 20 types of tea, finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones. Where: The Ritz-Carlton Dubai How much: From AED62 per person When: Daily, 2 to 6pm / Contact: 04 3994000
Best for a taste of Arabia: One&Only Royal Mirage A sophisticated oasis, One&Only Royal Mirage is the perfect option for a luxurious afternoon retreat. Choose from a wide selection of teas while being transported to another world. The hotel’s traditional Moroccan design is punctuated by hidden gardens and picturesque canals. Afternoon tea is served in The Samovar Lounge boasting views over the gardens, pool and the Gulf beyond. Guests can expect a delicious assortment of closed finger sandwiches, scones with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry jam. To round off the afternoon, there are biscuits, individual cakes, pastries and Arabic sweets to tantalise the taste buds. Where: One&Only, Royal Mirage How much: From AED65 per person When: Daily, 3 to 6pm / Contact: 04 3999999
99
TASTE_AFTERNOON TEA_DXB FEB13.indd 99
22/01/2013 16:42
t a st e /A FTERN O O N TEA
Best for fashionistas: Raffles Taking note of the latest catwalk trends, Raffles puts the high fashion into high tea. With designer sandwiches and couture cakes and fancies, The Collection Afternoon Tea intends to bring out the inner fashionista in guests with culinary creations inspired by designer labels straight from the catwalks. The colour, style and decoration of treats on the menu are intended to reflect the fashion trends from each season. Decadent deserts come in the shape of the latest haute couture accessories such as the winter honey praline stiletto encrusted with pearls or the walnut caramel bucket bag embellished with pistachio. Fluffy scones and delicious sandwiches complete the ensemble. Add bubbly to bring some sparkle to a special occasion in this distinctive pyramid-shaped hotel. Where: Raffles / How much: From AED199 for two When: Daily, 2 to 7pm / Contact: 04 3248888
Kambaa at The Address, Dubai Marina, offers an array of pastries and treats that includes chocolate crunchy tarts, profiteroles au chocolate and a cappuccino chocolate mousse
Best for chocolate lovers: Kambaa For an afternoon tea with a difference, you might like to try Kambaaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s indulgent offering. The Chocolate Buffet Afternoon Tea is a delicious take on the traditional tea service and a real treat for chocolate fans. Kambaa at The Address, Dubai Marina, offers an array of pastries and treats that includes chocolate crunchy tarts, profiteroles au chocolate and a cappuccino chocolate mousse. Even scones are given the cocoa treatment with homemade chocolate varieties complete with Devonshire cream, strawberry jam and chocolate spread butter. When: Fri and Sat, 3 to 6pm How much: From AED110 per person Where: The Address, Dubai Marina Contact: 04 4367777
100
TASTE_AFTERNOON TEA_DXB FEB13.indd 100
22/01/2013 16:47
Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com
Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.
FEbRuaRY 2013 | issuE 102
FEbRuaRY 2013 | issuE 102
T H E
V I S I T O r
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
T H E
M A G A Z I N E
l u x u r y
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
V I S I T O r
M A G A ZJune I N E 2012 | issue 94
T H E
T H E l u x u r y
F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r M A G A Z I N E
M A G A Z I N E
M A G A Z I N E
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r
V I S I T O r
F I V E - S T A r
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
24/10/2012 13:14
F I V E - S T A r
l u x u r y
l u x u r y
M A G A Z I N E
F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r
l u x u r y
T H E Concierge DXB - September 2012 - COVER.indd 1
l u x u r y
dubai edition
T H E
F I V E - S T A r
T H E
l u x u r y
F I V E - S T A r
september 2012 | issue 97
T H E
dECEmbEr ECEmbEr 2012 | issuE 100
dubai edition du
June 2012 | issue 94
F I V E - S T A r
dubai edition
T H E
l u x u r y
F I V E - S T A r
dubai duba b i edition ba
dECEmbEr 2012 | issuE 100
JaNuaRY 2013 | issue 101
T H E
september mber 2012 | issue 97
l u x u r y
JaNuaRY 2013 | issue 101
dubai edition
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
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
103_THE GUIDES OPENER_DXB.indd 103
21/01/2013 18:54
1
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.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz or Business Bay Map reference: C2 PALM STRIP
04 3461462
Get some beach action before browsing the shops at Palm Strip – a two-storey open mall with designer shops and restaurants.
04 3622222
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)
Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre, Gate Village is home to a range of high-end stores.
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
1. The Dubai Mall 2. Dubai Marina Mall 3. The Souk, The Dubai Mall 4. Baume & Mercier 5. The Dubai Mall 6. Souk Al Bahar
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.
3
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
104
LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB FEB13.indd 104
5
23/01/2013 16:19
T HE GUI D E / S HOP
2
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
4
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
6
LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB FEB13.indd 105
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)
105
22/01/2013 17:07
1
discover Dubai is one of the world’s most modern and dynamic destinations, with a fascinating heritage very much alive and waiting to be discovered
art galleries
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
106
LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB JAN13.indd 106
4
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
3
TOTAL ARTS
04 3475050
Spanning two floors and 10,000 sq m, Total Art specialises in artists and art influenced by the culture of the Middle East.
04 3988331
2
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
5
22/01/2013 09:21
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.
108
LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB JAN13.indd 108
21/01/2013 18:58
1
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
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 3511117
A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters.
Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 DREAMDAYS
800 2080
Take a four-hour catamaran cruise along Dubai’s coastline and enjoy a barbecue lunch as well as snorkelling.
Timings: Every Saturday
8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275 EL MUNDO
050 5517406
Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason)
Timings: From 2:30pm Guide price: Adults
04 2340812
Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available. LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES
04 3357676
04 2629993/050 7548466
Journey to a Bedouin campsite, ride a camel, smoke shisha together with a range of other desert-based activities.
Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150
NET TOURS DUBAI
OASIS PALM TOURISM
Cruising
EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI
Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.
per person
SUMMERTIME MARINE
04 2573084
See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.
04 2666655
Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping. OASIS PALM TOURISM
04 2629993/050 7548466
Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24
hours for up to seven people
Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.
THE YELLOW BOATS
OFF ROAD ADVENTURES
Adrenaline-pumping tours around Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab hotel in bright yellow inflatable crafts.
Offers excursions including dinner at a Bedouin camp, overnight camping and trips to Liwa.
800 8044
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 VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT
04 3572200
Hop aboard the Arabian dhow for a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise.
Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises
Desert tours
050 6289667
ORIENT TOURS
04 2828238
Expect innovative desert trips, tours between Dubai and Muscat and adventurous expeditions. ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite. TRAVCO
04 3366643
Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.
Flying ALPHA TOURS
04 2949888
Discover Dubai from the sky and marvel at a long list of world-renowned landmarks.
ARABIAN ADVENTURES
EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL
Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding.
Learn how to fly or top up your hours at the only approved flying school in Dubai.
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.
1. Desert Safari 2. Skydiving 3. Arabian Adventures 4. Bateaux Dubai
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
ARABIAN DESERT TOURS
3
04 2999339
Call individual tour operators for times and prices
04 3034888
2
04 2995155
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
AED250, children AED210
110
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB13.indd 110
4
22/01/2013 18:39
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
112
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB13.indd 112
22/01/2013 18:39
5
JAM JAR
04 3417303
Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm, Fri 2 to 8pm. Closed Sun Guide price: Prices start at AED85 per canvas
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
Edutainment CHILDREN’S CITY
04 3340808
An interactive science and cultural centre.
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
Ice skating (see Sports)
Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY
04 4261030
For the ultimate aquatic experience that you'll never forget, meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. This is one of Dubai's most famous attractions.
Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual
rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach
DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO
04 4485200
Marvel at the diverse collection of marine life or swim with the sharks at The Dubai Mall. There are also glass-bottom boat rides for the less brave and a behind-the-scenes tour.
Cool it
10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adult tunnel entry AED25, child AED20; tunnel and zoo AED50
04 3484444
With its central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with funpacked rides, this water park is always a hit with adults and children of all ages.
04 3369773
Learn more about dolphins, seals and other marine life at this fully air-conditioned dolphinarium.
THE LOST CHAMBERS
Golf
04 4260000
Discover a maze of underwater halls and tunnels, with 65,000 marine animals swimming at the Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis, The Palm.
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.
Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED225 for adults, AED180 for children under 1.2 metres DREAMLAND AQUA PARK
06 7681888
Perfect for families and only an hour’s drive from Dubai, this large fun-filled park has a number of entertaining rides.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am
to 6pm. Fri, Sat and public holidays the park is open for families only from 10am to 8pm (no all-male groups) Guide price: AED135 adults; AED85 children ICELAND WATER PARK
800 WOWRAK (969725)
A sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert.
Timings: Sun to Wed and Fri 10am to 6pm. Thu and Sat 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m AED150. Below 1.2m AED100
6
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED220 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free
Timings: Shows Mon to Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children
Waterparks
Splashland is a fun family water park near the Dubai Creek featuring slides, twisters, a lazy river, water cannons and children’s activity pool.
WILD WADI
DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM
adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight
04 3241222/04 3243222
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED105 adults; AED95 children
Timings: Sun to Wed
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
SPLASHLAND
AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
04 6010111
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)
(7,303 yards, par-72) This championship course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II.
5. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo 6. Falcon Aviation Services 7. Dreamland Aqua Park 8. Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
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
7
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
04 3802222
Majlis Course:
(7,211 yards, par-72)
Faldo Course:
(6,916 yards, par-73)
The Par Three:
1,239 yards, par-27) Emirates Golf Club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament, but also offers everything from fine dining to bar bites available alongside topnotch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a spa.
Green fees: Majlis Course
daily AED995 for 18 holes. Faldo Course Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes
8
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB13.indd 113
22/01/2013 19:37
9
JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA
04 8145555
Climbing
(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
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
Timings: Sat to Thu 6.30am to 10pm, Fri 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED60 for one hour with an instructor
Jumeirah Golf Estates
THE WALL
Earth Course:
It's a challenge, but at more than 15 metres high (that's nearly 50 feet), this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.
04 3752222
(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 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
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
04 3065061
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
11
ART MARINE
04 4068825
SPECTATOR SPORTS
Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED750
Don't fancy working up a sweat? Relax at one of these high-profile spectator events
per hour onwards
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.
Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.
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.
DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB
04 2054646
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
9. Dubai Desert Classic 10. Rock climbing 11. No Boundaries 12. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai
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
10
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
12
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB13.indd 115
22/01/2013 18:40
expe r ience/THE GUIDE
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
13
04 4485111
This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED50 for two hours
14
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.
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
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.
30 minutes
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
Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
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
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details
The centre at Jebel Ali provides karting for everyone over the age of eight on its one-kilometre track just outside Dubai.
04 2573084
Guide price: AED300 per person for a day’s trip. See Listings for tour operators
The facility includes two polo fields, a riding school and equestrian centre.
050 5592131
Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE
SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB
04 3618111
EMIRATES KART CENTRE
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.
DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB
Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110
050 5517280
Shooting
Polo
13. Ice Rink, The Dubai Mall 14. Meydan racing 15. Karting
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.
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
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
02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
04 2096000
This ice skating rink at the Hyatt Regency Dubai offers professional coaching and fun for the whole family.
04 3941669
YAS Racing School
Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Private tuition starts at AED1,500 for private tuition
GALLERIA ICE RINK
DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB
Guide price: AED300 per person including transport
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
15
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB13.indd 116
22/01/2013 19:39
IN THE HEART OF MOTORCITY THE DUBAI AUTODROME OFFERS A WIDE VARIETY OF ADRENALINE PUMPING EXPERIENCES • Track experiences on an FIA race circuit • Indoor & outdoor karting tracks
• Corporate & group activities • Conference & hospitality suites
dubaiautodrome.com
1
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 – Lebanese 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
118
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB13.indd 118
Downtown Dubai This season, the Armani/ Ristorante team welcomes a quartet of renowned winemakers to host a series of dining events pairing an exquisite five-course tasting menu with blends and vintages from the world’s finest vineyards. February sees one of Italy’s oldest winemakers, Gabbiano, share their expertise on the 27, from 7pm, priced at AED 650 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 available at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge. For Valentine’s Day enjoy a romantic dining experience with a meal on the private terrace or Majlis in the desert, with packages starting from AED5,000 including a private butler and sumptuous four course gourmet menu.
2
3
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 of gourmet sanwiches and fresh cakes. There are also spectacular views over Dubai to enjoy. 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
1. Junsui, Burj Al Arab 2. Ossigeno, Le Royal Méridien 3. Zuma, Dubai International Financial Centre 4. Pai Thai, Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah
04 8852222
Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill international restaurant. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar
Crowne Plaza Dubai
04 3311111
Sheikh Zayed Road Take a culinary journey through Arabia with Al Dana restaurant’s all new Arabic Friday brunch buffet. With a range of delicious offerings including freshly baked breads and hot mezze to mouthwatering seafood and a mixed grill, there’s a dish to suit every taste. The brunch starts from February 1, from 12-4pm and is priced at AED180 per person. 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
4
21/01/2013 19:00
T HE GUI D E / T A S T E
Fairmont the palm, dubai
Deira
Palm Jumeirah
04 2625555
Bring your family for a fun day out at Spice Island. Every Friday from noon to 4pm enjoy a buffet with prices from AED179 per person. Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International
Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City
04 7012222
Dubai Festival City The Belgian Brunch at the Belgian Beer Café boasts a hearty feast including delicious waffles. Every Friday from 1 to 4pm. AED249. Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
04 3461111 Jumeirah
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 selection of Mediterranean dishes. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International
Dusit Thani Dubai
04 3433333
Sheikh Zayed Road For Valentine’s Day, try the romantic buffet at The Californian restaurant priced at AED450 per couple inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine, from 7pm. Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International
Fairmont Dubai
04 3325555
Sheikh Zayed Road Book in for a famous Friday brunch from 12-3pm at Spectrum on One, priced from AED295 per person. Try The Exchange Grill for a His and Her four course Valentine’s menu on February 14, from 7pm priced at AED1,199 per couple. 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
04 4573388
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
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa
09 2449888
Al Aqah Beach 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
Enjoy a taste of Sicily at Andiamo! A collaboration with the celebrated Sicilian Planeta estate sees wine producer Francesca Planeta present a selection of Sicilian dishes at Andiamo! Each course is perfectly paired with exclusive Planeta wines. The Planeta Brunch, on February 15, is priced at AED289 per person while the Wine Dinner on February 16 is priced at AED225 per person and starts from 6pm. 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 exclusive restaurants in this award-winning 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
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 Deira
119
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB13.indd 119
21/01/2013 19:00
5
Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa
InterContinental Dubai Festival City
Dubai Marina
Dubai Festival City
04 3995000
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
Hatta Fort Hotel
04 8099333 Hatta
Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa
04 8145555 Jebel Ali
Embark on a culinary journey at the themed nights at Ibn Majed. Buffets feature specialities from Germany, Thailand and India.
Hilton Dubai Creek
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Deira
Jumeirah
04 2271111
Award-winning chefs Scott Price and Nick Alvis' table9 by nick and scott offers elegant cuisine in an intimate setting.
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
hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates
04 3772000
Sheikh Zayed Road For multicultural cuisine, visit allday dining restaurant Sanabel, where you can dine al fresco.
7
Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steakhouse
Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International
Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by nick and scott – European
6
Prepare your palate for a burst of flavours at Anise every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm for AED325, including soft drinks.
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
Enjoy drinks by the outdoor pool and watch your favourite films at Movies Under The Stars nights every Thursday and Friday.
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
04 7011111
Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar
hyatt regency dubai
04 2091234 Deira
Enjoy dinner with panoramic views of the city at Al Dawaar revolving restaurant this Valentine’s. Priced from AED999 per couple, available on February 14 from 6.30pm. 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
Ibis World Trade Centre dubai
04 3324444 Zabeel
Cubo Pasta is a popular lunch spot for delegates at neighbouring World Trade Centre. Cubo Pasta – Italian
04 3480000
Enjoy a romantic meal at La Parilla. Tuck into a four course set menu with refreshing mocktails or a bottle of bubbly. Priced at AED1,500 per couple, the special menu is available from 6.30pm on February 14. 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
To celebrate the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships this month, why not try the Tennis Themed Friday Brunch at Nomad? Complete with bubbly and strawberries, it's priced from AED195 and held every Friday from February 18 until March 2, from 12 to 4pm. Biscotti – Italian Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Cuban Nomad – Asian
Jumeirah Emirates Towers
04 3300000 DIFC
Renowned international brasserie The Ivy Dubai offers a British menu with an international influence. Classics to try include its world famous shepherd’s pie. Visit Vu's Bar for cocktails served by award-winning bartenders. 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 five course set menu for Valentine’s Day at French Vietnamese restaurant Voi. Priced at AED1,795 per couple, the meal includes a welcome drink, bottle of Rose Champagne, gift hamper and bouquet of roses for ladies. The menu is available from 7pm on February 14. Also this month, you might like to try a delicious three course Lebanese set menu from 7-11.30pm, Sunday to Wednesday priced from AED225. Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese
Jumeira Rotana Hotel
04 3455888 Satwa
Try some German flavours at Brauhaus with a selection of the country’s traditional dishes. From 6-8pm daily enjoy selected beverages from AED22. 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 There is an exciting collection of new culinary concepts to try here including chic restaurant Latest Recipe which offers contemporary dishes from around the world. New Japanese restaurant Watatsumi is also a must try. This property is also ome to one of Dubai’s most popular beach venues, Barasti. Barasti – International Latest Recipe – International Watatsumi – Japanese Latitude Bar – Bar
Local dialect
Arabic is the official language of the UAE, although English is widely understood. using some common Arabic phrases is appreciated: Marhaba – Hi or welcome Shukran - Thank you Afwan – You’re welcome welcomGoodbySabah el kheer – Good morning Masaa el Kheer – Good evening Wayn – Where Law samaht – Excuse me Ala tuwl - Straight Yisar - Left Yameen - Right
8
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB13.indd 120
22/01/2013 19:43
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
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, One&Only Royal Mirage houses restaurants such as Beach Bar & Grill and Celebrities. It is also home to Eau Zone, considered 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.
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
Ramada plaza Jumeirah Beach
Deira
Jumeirah Beach Residence
04 2227171
For a dining experience with a difference, try Fish Market with views of Deira Creek and select your own fresh fish and seafood, all cooked to order with a delicious selection of sauces as an accompaniment. Sample quality Chinese cuisine prepared by master chefs at The China Club where you can choose to dine in either the elegant dining room or art-filled private room. 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
101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City
Park Hyatt Dubai
Dubai Media City
04 6021234 Garhoud
French restaurant Traiteur is serving a sumptuous fivecourse dinner for Valentine’s Day. Priced at AED590 per person, this special menu is available on February 14. Or enjoy a special new evening on Wednesdays at The Thai Kitchen with an extensive range of dishes to try for AED220 per person. Cafe Arabesque - Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French
04 3669111
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Certo with a delicious four course set menu including bubbly from AED550 per couple, available on February 14. Also this month, Icon Lounge will be hosting a wine tasting event with Sommelier Madan, accompanied by a chef’s selection of dim sum. The evening will take place on February 6, from 7.30pm. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar
radisson royal hotel dubai
04 3080000
Sheikh Zayed Road
04 4498888
Jumeirah Beach Residence
Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek
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
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. Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar Fire & Ice – Steakhouse People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Tomo – Japanese
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, a firm favourite with meat lovers in Dubai. For Valentine’s, indulge in a cosy romantic meal with panoramic view of Dubai’s coastline at Chef’s Restaurant. Couples can enjoy a four-course seafood set menu, a welcome glass of bubbly and red rose for the lady, priced from AED1,200. 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 Dine at a market style buffet of different meat cuts from around the globe every Wednesday in February at Dunes Cafe. Dishes are cooked to order and a special assortment of salts is also available with your chosen cut. Prices start from AED325 per person. 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
121
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB13.indd 121
22/01/2013 19:43
T A ST E/THE GUIDE
9
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 Usher in Chinese New Year at award-winning restaurant Hukama and savour authentic Cantonese delicacies on the special New Year’s Eve Menu. Available on February 9, priced from AED 488 per person. Enjoy stunning views of the Dubai skyline from chic bar Neos. 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
Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar Ruth's Chris Steak House – Steakhouse
04 3627934
9. Mazina, The Address Dubai Marina 10. Hoi-an, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai 11. Na3Na3, The Address Dubai Mall
villa rotana
04 3216111
Sheikh Zayed Road Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet. Moka Café – All-day dining
ARABIC TASTE
The Palace Downtown Dubai
04 4287888
Downtown Dubai
10
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
Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy spectacular views over Dubai Marina. at.mosphere
04 8883828 Burj Khalifa
04 3666197
Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International
Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house Shiba – Asian
AQUARA
Traders Hotel Dubai
The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style.
Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience.
This stylish bar is located in the heart of the city.
The world's 'Highest Restaurant from Ground Level'.
Deira
Meydan
Al Murooj Rotana
Flavours on Two – International Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International
04 2659888
04 3813333
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai
Towers Rotana Dubai
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.
The Meydan
Take in breath-taking views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa while you enjoy a Valentine’s set menu at Thai restaurant Thiptara from AED400 per person on February 14.
050 2464555
Sheikh Zayed Road
Sheikh Zayed Road
Alegra
Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai
04 3438000
04 5018888
Dubai Marina
Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean
Enjoy a Valentine’s Lobster BBQ Evening Brunch at Blue Orange restaurant on February 14 from 7pm, priced at AED290 per person. There’s also fine Italian fare at Bussola with a two course lunch just AED110 per person from Sunday to Thursday.
The h hotel, dubai
The Address Dubai Marina
Settle down to a delicious four course Valentine’s Day menu of gourmet flavours from around the world at Mazina. Savour French foie gras, Scottish salmon and seasonal fish and meat dishes. Be wowed by the interactive show kitchens and enjoy a complimentary bottle of bubbly. Available on February 14 from 6pm priced at AED600 per couple.
Dubai Marina
Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International
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.
City dining
04 3994141
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.
Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai
04 4238888
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
04 3905600
BarZar
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar also serves British food . carluccio's
04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728 The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre
Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment. cavalli club
04 332960
Fairmont Dubai A chic nightspot that attracts a trendy late-night crowd. Centimetro
04 3666730
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. Chi’Zen
04 2329077, 04 3549288 Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates
First-class Cantonese cuisine and amazing views. Rivington Grill
04 4230903, 04 3666464 Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day. The 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. VIP ROOM
04 3881400
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Dubai's hottest new clubbing venue. West 14th
04 4477601
The Palm Jumeirah
122
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB13.indd 122
11
Expect succulent steaks at this New York grill and bar.
22/01/2013 17:13
{
my dubai Philip Stein watch ambassador for the Middle East Simone Heng shares her Dubai highlights helping visitors make the most of the city
}
1
1 At.mosphere 2 Dubai World Cup
I have been living in Dubai for four years, after moving here from Singapore where I was born and I now think of this city as my home. I’ve moved around quite a bit during my life. I have a mixture of Chinese and Portuguese parentage and have lived in Australia and Switzerland, but I have never felt so at home as I do in Dubai. I’m a host on The Lowdown show on Dubai’s Virgin Radio which keeps me very busy as I’m presenting from 10am to 1pm every weekday. I love my job as I get to meet lots of new people and I get to spend a lot of time on the red carpet! I am also currently the Philip Stein watch ambassador for the Middle East, which keeps me very busy. I l i ke to u s e my s pa r e t i me to experience the local culture, which makes Dubai feel real and personal to me. A l Mam zar Pa rk is specia l because it’s a place where people from all walks of life can come together. I go to Satwa to buy haberdashery and I get involved with the film festivals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
For a special occasion I always go to At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa and, when my family is in town, I take them for high tea at Burj Al Arab My favourite time of the year in Dubai is winter as the wonderful climate puts everyone in a good mood. There’s a cool breeze in the air, which makes outdoor activities such a pleasure. I’ve just discovered Jumeirah Beach Park and love that it’s something to do for free. I’ll usually go with friends and we’ll pack a picnic basket of cheese and meats. There are so many amazing options for eating out in Dubai that you are really spoilt for choice. I am a big fan of The Change Initiative on Sheikh Zayed Road. The Taste Initiative café there, uses organic produce and is ethical about how it disposes of waste. I also adore Bu Qtair Cafeteria, which is a bit of a Dubai secret. It’s a traditional fish shack facing Burj Al Arab serving Kerala fried fish and prawns with paratha flatbreads or rice. I also love Royal China in Dubai International Financial
Centre (DI FC) for good authentic Chinese food in a fantastic atmosphere. La Petite Maison, also in DIFC, is my favourite spot for European food. For a special occasion I always go to At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa and, when my family is in town, I take them for high tea at Burj Al Arab. It’s a great chance to relish the view and people-watch. For cocktails with friends, I like to unwind at FAI at The Palace Hotel. The drinks are all infused with Asian flavours such as fresh lychee. There are endless places to shop in the city, but I usually head to Mall of Emirates as it has everything I need and a great selection of stores under one roof. The highlight of Dubai’s calendar for me is the Dubai World Cup in March and the Jaguar Style Stakes that take place there where ladies compete for bestdressed prizes. Fashion excites me, so it’s the perfect fit and a wonderful day out.
2
124
REGULARS_MY DUBAI_Simone Heng_DXB FEB13.indd 124
23/01/2013 16:18
cartier.com
Panthère de Cartier collection
From UAE: 800 Cartier (800-227 8437) Outside UAE: +971 4 236 8345