Concierge Dubai Magazine, March 2012 by npimedia fz llc

March 2012 | issue 91

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 March 2012 | issue 91

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

With compliments of

Licensed by international Media Production Zone

Breguet, the innovator.

Invention of the Breguet balance spring, 1795 The balance spring gives time rhythm and sets its rate – the key to a watch’s precision. With its many patented innovations, the Tradition 7047PT with fusee tourbillon pushes the limits of precision time-keeping by combining the accuracy of the Breguet balance-spring’s terminal curve, conceived in 1795, and the anti-magnetic properties of silicon. History is still being written ...

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EL PRIMERO CHRONOMASTER OPEN

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Life is in the movement

ZENITH • Visual: Chronomaster Open RG • Magazine: Concierge (Dubai) (AE) • Language: English • Issue: 29.2.2012 • Doc size: 220 x 275 mm •

MARCH 2012 / Issue 91 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

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CIRCULATION & M AR K ETING Miche l l e Hir ao c a rol mil a n

Concierge magazine is published monthly and copies a r e dist r i bu t e d f r e e of c h a rge i n f i v e -sta r a n d se l ec t fou r-sta r hot e ls. A lt hough e v e ry e f fort is m a de to e nsu r e t h e acc u r ac y of i n for m at ion con ta i n e d i n Concie rge m aga zi n e , t h e pu bl ish e r c a nn o t b e h e l d r e s p o n s i b l e f o r a n y e rro r s o r inaccur acies. Articles contained within Concierge m aga z i n e a r e u n de r cop y r igh t to t h e pu bl ish e r a nd ca nnot be r eproduced or tr a nsmit ted in a n y form, without first obtaining written permission.

WELCOME TO concierge From the poised enthusiasm of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic to the wild carousing of the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, the city is famed for its world-class international sporting events. This month marks the 16th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup and it goes without saying that the emirate is abuzz with all things equestrian. On March 31 visitors can look forward to an electrifying day as the 60,000-seat stadium at the Meydan Grandstand comes alive for the world’s richest horse race. In addition to the best horses, jockeys and trainers competing for a prize purse of US$10 million (AED36.7m), this high-profile event is a closely contended fashion extravaganza where attendees don the perfect race-day ensembles. Turn to page 38 to read about this season’s hottest looks and what’s on trend for the big day. If you’re short of an outfit, don’t despair because Dubai is home to an array of shopping malls, designer stores and independent boutiques. From the world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall, to the long-established designer hotspot BurJuman, there is little you can’t purchase in the city’s retail palaces. Turn to page 50 for our definitive guide to the emirate’s best malls. While your stay on these shores is bound to be jam-packed, we invite you to view our upfront Essentials section, which showcases the top events this month and vital visitor experiences. Our Shop, Discover, Experience and Taste sections offer informed and invaluable insight into the Middle East’s most cosmopolitan destination. The Guide completes Concierge, offering a comprehensive companion to Dubai, with detailed information covering the four sections. To make the most of your time in this exciting destination, turn to the comprehensive listings in The Guide and find the latest up-to-date information at your fingertips. Further information can also be found at www.conciergedubai.com or by consulting your hotel concierge. Dubai is a dynamic and exciting destination. Enjoy it fully with Concierge.

Nicholas Publishing International FZ LLC P.O. Box 500573, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 4243600 Fax: 04 4327505 Email: concierge@npimedia.com Web: www.conciergedubai.com Concierge’s circulation is independently audited by BPA Worldwide www.bpaww.com

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

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

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

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In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh The people of the UAE have always been inextricably linked to the equestrian world. The much-loved Arabian horse originated in the region over 4,500 years ago and lived side-by-side with the Bedouin for centuries. In recent years, the city has become famous as the host of the Dubai World Cup – the world’s richest horse race. In addition to being an international sporting event, the Dubai World Cup is one of the biggest highlights on the emirate’s social calendar. As the world’s equestrian stars unite for the prestigious event, the Dubai social scene also comes together to celebrate most glamorous occasion of the year.

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contents March 2012 / Issue 91

18/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

26/SNAPSHOT Dubai Creek

29/SHOP 30/RACING COLOURS

Muted tones and bold prints make a grand stand at the Dubai World Cup

38/HORSES AND HEELS

Dress to impress at the biggest event on the Dubai social calendar

44/WATCH AND LEARN

Choosing a timepiece is trickier than you think

50/TOUR OF DUTY Explore Dubai’s retail palaces

60/DISCOVER 62/ARABIAN KNIGHTS

Concierge takes a look at the history of the Arabian horse

69/TOURIST TRAIL Palm Jumeirah – Dubai’s most exclusive neighbourhood

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contents March 2012 / Issue 91

71/EXPERIENCE 72/BEING FRANK We chat exclusively to world-champion jockey Frankie Dettori

80/A STABLE COMPANION

It’s time to brush up on all things equestrian

86/OCEAN’S ’12

The Dubai International Boat Show drops anchor for its 20th year

93/TASTE 94/DUBAI’S GOT TALENT Emerging talent and established stars shine on the Dubai culinary scene

102/FEAST YOUR EYES

Enjoy stunning views and the mild weather at one of Dubai’s best alfresco dining spots

110/MY DUBAI

Art Dubai marketing manager Farah Atoui shares her tips for an imaginative stay in Dubai

Q 111/the Guide Comprehensive listings to help plan the perfect stay

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essentials MARCH

EXPERIENCE Dubai World Cup

An essential event on the Dubai social calendar, the Dubai World Cup sees the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best horses, jockeys and trainers competing in the richest horse race on the planet. With US$10 million (AED36.7m) up for grabs, the event attracts a global spotlight as well as the Dubai glitterati, who are always out in force for the high-profile event. Where: Meydan Racecourse. When: March 31. Contact: www.dubaiworldcup.com

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EVENTS IN BRIEF

DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS

Until March 3 Tennis fever befalls Dubai as some of the most talented players on the planet, including Roger Federer (pictured), Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, battle it out for prizes and the chance to take home the coveted trophy. Head to The Aviation Club for a piece of the action. For details visit www.dubaidutyfreetennischampionship.com

EXPERIENCE Dubai Fountain

Marvel at the world’s tallest dancing fountain as it shoots water to heights of more than 450 feet. This spectacular attraction performs to world music including ‘Con te patirò’ (Time to Say Goodbye) sung by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. Spellbinding views of the fountain can also be enjoyed from the surrounding restaurants and cafés. Be sure to reserve a table or arrive early to secure front-row seats. Where: Downtown Dubai between the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall. When: Every 30 minutes from 6 to 10pm Sun to Wed and 6 to 11pm Thu to Sat. Contact: Call 800 DUBAI MALL (38224 6255) or visit www.thedubaimall.com and click ‘Entertain’.

TASTE

Taste of Dubai Join the brightest culinary stars, including Gary Rhodes (pictured), Vineet Bhatia and Richard Sandoval as they showcase their talents at Taste of Dubai. The city’s most acclaimed restaurants will gather at the ultimate openair festival of food and drink. This is the place to try delicious signature dishes, mingle with chefs and enjoy new food and beverages. Where: Dubai Media City. When: March 15 to 17. Contact: www.tasteofdubaifestival.com

E m irates A ir l ine festi va l o f l iterature March 6 to 10 Budding writers come one, come all because the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is where famous authors and the public meet for debates and workshops. Opening at The Cultural & Scientific Association in Dubai. Call 04 3444192 for details.

SANDANCE

March 9 The award-winning music festival Sandance is back with another five-star international line up. Soak up the sun and sounds of Snow Patrol live in concert, followed by Calvin Harris behind the decks and superstar DJ Erick Morillo. The event takes place at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. For more information call 04 4260000.

dubai m arina street festi va l March 22 to 31 Levitation, tightrope walking and fire breathing are just a few of the activities at the Dubai Marina Street Festival. The dramatic extravaganza, which takes place at the Promenade at Dubai Marina, is set to be 10 days of theatrical fun. For more information visit www.dubaistreetfestival.com

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EXPERIENCE

Dubai International Boat Show If you’re in the market for a yacht or fancy some ‘window shopping’, make sure you visit the Dubai International Boat Show. Now in its 20 th year, the five-day event unites maritime enthusiasts and exhibitors from around the world. More than 750 leading international, regional and local companies will be present at the boating bonanza, which is set to be bigger and better than ever before. Where: Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. When: March 13 to 17 from 4 to 9.30pm daily. Contact: www.boatshowdubai.com. For more information turn to page 86.

EXPERIENCE A day of spa pampering

If globetrotting has left you washed out, a few days in Dubai will reinvigorate you. With an array of five-star spas, it doesn’t matter if you’re keen on massages, facials, hammams or wraps because there’s a pampering session to suit every traveller. Our top recommendations include The Spa at The Palace – The Old Town and the Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray (pictured). Turn to page 126 for a list of properties, most with in-house spa facilities.

SHOP

Old-style souks If you like to trawl for trinkets, pack a pair of comfortable shoes and get ready for a shop-a-thon at one of Dubai’s air-conditioned indoor markets. Souk Madinat Jumeirah (pictured), Souk Al Bahar and Khan Murjan are three recently built bazaars, constructed to resemble traditional Arabic marketplaces. The perfect places to pick up Arabic lanterns, dates and Persian carpets, this is where you go for last-minute souvenir shopping. Location: Umm Suqeim, Downtown Dubai and Oud Metha respectively. Turn to page 112 for more information.

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Ask the concierge H a r o l d A b o n i ta l l a , C h i e f C o n c i e r g e at R a f f l e s D u b a i , shares his top tips for a l u x u ry s tay i n T H E C ITY

Dubai has a lot of amazing views but my first recommendation is Red Lounge Terrace, which is on the 17th floor of Raffles Dubai. As well as stunning views of the city skyline, this ultra-modern Chinese lounge serves delicious cocktails. Another great place is At.mosphere, which is located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. Guests can experience the highest bar in the world, while quaffing a few drinks in the lounge. I also recommend that guests try Armani/ Risorante, which serves up a delicious menu of Italian fare, as well as spectacular views of Dubai Fountain. With regards to retail therapy, visitors can find everything they’re looking for at The Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. The 1,000 stores include all the well-known brand such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Burberry. There are also department stores such as Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s. Another good option is BurJuman, which is famous for its luxury-brand stores. This mall is located in Bur Dubai. For those looking for water sports, I suggest a power-boat ride. If the guest is happy to travel out of Dubai I would urge them to try Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The park offers more than 20 rides and attractions, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster which reaches speeds of 240kmh.

Concierge of the Year awards The Concierge of the Year awards, set up by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, aim to reward concierges for their outstanding service. If you would like to recommend a particular concierge, please contact us at concierge@npimedia.com Supported by:

DISCOVER Dubai Museum

If the ultra-modern side of Dubai is all you know, step back in time at Dubai Museum. Located in Bur Dubai, inside Al Fahidi Fort, you’ll find artefacts, photographs and life-sized displays. Time: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm and Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm. Price: AED3 for adults and AED1 for children under six. Contact: 04 3531862.

SHOP

Fashion Avenue Prepare to shop like never before at Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall. Your one-stop shop for all things fabulous, peruse big-name designer brands such as Shanghai Tang, Nina Ricci (pictured), Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci. There’s no excuse for leaving empty handed. Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 04 3627500.

TASTE

Dinner cruise Dubai is known for its idyllic restaurants, but if you’re really looking to make a splash, book in for a romantic dinner cruise. Whether you choose to enjoy a Dubai Creek cruise on a traditional dhow or floating restaurant, or board a private boat for two and explore the tranquil waters of Dubai Marina, the city waterways provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic meal. There is a variety of cruise companies in Dubai but our top recommendations include Bateaux Dubai and First Yacht (pictured). Turn to page 122 for a list of companies.

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info@levant.com www.levant.com

AL QASR – +971 4 4486092

ATLANTIS – +971 4 4503622

ZABEEL SARAY – +971 4 4357556

LOOKING AHEAD The Bride Show April 4 and 7 The largest bridal and fashion exhibition in the Middle East is gearing up to celebrate its 15th anniversary. With more than 350 exhibitors and over 16,000 visitors, this prestigious event is a unique and glamorous shopping experience for brides to be. For details visit www.thebrideshow.com

TASTE Brunch

If your stay in Dubai takes in a Friday (the first day of the UAE weekend) use this opportunity to experience a Dubai brunch. Unlike the calm culinary experience it is elsewhere around the globe, brunch in Dubai is a whole new occurrence. With buffet tables laden with gourmet food and an unending supply of free-flowing drinks, you won’t be left wanting. Our favourite spots include Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah (pictured) and Spectrum on One at The Fairmont Dubai. Turn to page 126 for a list of hotels, many of which serve Friday brunches.

Dubai fashion week April 7 and 14 Fashionistas should clear their schedules for Dubai Fashion Week. The fashion trade event takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre and will be showcasing the latest fall/winter trends. For more information visit www.dfw.ae

GUCCI

EA G L E S L I V E IN DU B AI April 12 For the first time in the Middle East, award-winning American rock band the Eagles will perfom in Dubai at The Sevens stadium. Expect big hits including ‘Hotel California’ and ‘Take it Easy’. To book tickets visit www.doneevents.com

C h r i st i e ’ s a u ct i o n April 17 and 18 Planning to add to your art collection? Head to Jumeirah Emirates Towers because Christie’s is holding an auction for a variety of renowned artists including Louay Kayyali, Paul Guiragossian and Nasrollah Afjehei. For more information visit www.christies.com

CMY

EXPERIENCE

British Polo Day

This celebration of British heritage is a fun day out for the whole family. Polo players from Britain’s finest institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, Eton, Harrow, the Cavalry & Guards Club and the British Army will go head-to-head on the field at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club on March 30. For more information visit www.britishpoloday.com

D u b a i I n t e r n at i o n a l d a n c e f e st i va l June 1 The First Group Theatre at Madinat Jumeirah plays host to the best young performers in the region. Classical dance academies, youth orchestras and music ensembles will unite for an unforgettable show. For details visit www.dubaidancefestival.com

Dubai summer surprises June 14 to July 14 Shoppers can expect discounts and daily raffles as they explore the many retail havens throughout the city.

DISCOVER Art Dubai

Art buffs can look forward to the sixth installment of Art Dubai – the largest annual contemporary art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia. The event welcomes a carefully selected roster of 74 galleries from 32 countries and takes place from March 21 to 24 at Madinat Jumeirah. For more information log on to www.artdubai.ae

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Snapshot

Creek-side story Of Dubai’s international landmarks, the Creek remains the most culturally diverse. This historic inlet, which divides Deira and Bur Dubai, was primarily used for fishing and pearl diving. When the cultured pearl was introduced in the 1930s, it brought an abrupt end to this important industry and threw the Dubai economy into disarray. Fortunately Dubai Creek also served as a minor port for dhows (traditional Arabian boats) until the 1960s when it was dredged to allow access for larger boats, which helped to keep the financial system buoyant. Today, dhows are still very much a part of life on the Creek and can be seen moored on the Deira bank. Abras (water taxis) are also a familiar sight, transporting people between the busy souks (markets) and trading hubs on either side. Often referred to as ‘the heart of Dubai’, the waterway is a constant hive of activity and a must-see for any visitor 26

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

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shop Louis Vuitton

Inspired by the effortlessly stylish and highly acclaimed Sofia Coppola, the new 2012 Cruise Collection from Louis Vuitton is as sophisticated and sassy as its muse. The selection, which takes its cue from â&#x20AC;&#x2122;60s and â&#x20AC;&#x2122;70s Parisian cinema, is a modern take on an iconic era. Louis Vuitton is available at The Dubai Mall, BurJuman and Mall of the Emirates.

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RACING COLOURS Muted tones and bold prints make a grand stand at the Dubai World Cup

Q P h o t o g r a p h y: A d h a m s n e e h A r t D i r e c t i o n : A n d r e a T e m p e s ta

Minna wears: Dress Alexander McQueen; necklace Swarovski; hat Murmure by Spirit; watch Longines Warren wears: Pin-striped blazer and trousers, both Corneliani; white shirt and pink tie, both Thomas Pink; watch Longines

Fa sh ion / s hop

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Minna wears: Dress Gucci; hat Murmure by Spirit; earrings Coach; handbag Marc by Marc Jacobs Warren wears: Pink shirt, navy jumper, striped tie and blue cufflinks, all Thomas Pink; white trousers Corneliani; sunglasses Dunhill London

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Minna wears: Polka-dot shirt, navy skirt and necklace, all Tory Burch; headpiece Murmure by Spirit; watch Longines

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Warren wears: Multi-coloured striped shirt Duchamp London; navy blazer Corneliani; paisley pocket square Eton; watch Longines

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Minna wears: Dress Marc by Marc Jacobs; watch Coach; headpiece Murmure by Spirit; necklace Swarovski

Stylist: Dina Yassin at Bareface Assistant stylist: Paris Golding Hair and Make-up: Gene Ginno Alducente Models: Minna and Warren at Mansion Model Location: Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse

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FA S HI ON / s hop

HORSES AND HEELS Facing race-day fashion dilemmas? Let Concierge lead the way with the hottest trends for the Dubai World Cup

Q W O R D s B Y E M I LY M C C A R R I C K

Fashion is big business in Dubai. This is, after all, the town that made a festival out of shopping. From home-grown designers making their mark on the world stage to international big hitters clamouring for retail space, the emirate is bucking the trend and flourishing amid international economic downturn by remaining resolutely fashion fabulous. But style in Dubai means far more than retail therapy. It’s about being seen and nowhere more so than at the Dubai World Cup, which is the hottest event of the emirate’s hectic social calendar. Visitors flock to town in their thousands and this year organisers promise that the event will be better than ever with the addition of the Dubai Gold Cup – a move that will increase the race card to nine events with overall prize money of US$27.25 million. However for many of the 50,000 visitors who jet into town for the Dubai World Cup, the day is less about horses and more about fashion. But with an abundance of luxury brands and high-end labels at our fingers tips, where is a person to start when it comes to selecting the perfect race-day outfit?

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SHO P/ FA S HIO N

Let the games begin Three-times Jaguar Style Stakes judge Kelly Lundberg is a woman in the know on all things fashion related. “The key is to plan early,” explains Lundberg, as she gears up for the big day. “Leaving shopping to the last minute often results in selecting something just for the sake of it. This is never a good move, especially for an outfit that needs to be fabulous enough to take the scrutiny of a day at the races.” So, with early planning in mind, what styles should shoppers opt for this year if they want to be on trend and race ready? “Pastels are huge at the moment,” explains Lundberg, “and great for a spring event. Pick plain colours rather than

1 2 3 4 5

Lanvin Dubai World Cup 2011 Jimmy Choo Christian Louboutin Maison du Posh

Dubai can be scorching in March so go for dresses in light fabrics like organza, silk and cotton to keep you cool. For classic comfort that still carries the wow factor, look to Lanvin

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patterns.” Lundberg also suggests opting for an ensemble that is as comfortable as it is classy. “I want people to look relaxed as well as stylish and pulled together,” she says. Founder of fashion blog www.superfabme.com, Natascha Hawke agrees. “Dubai can be scorching in March so go for dresses in light fabrics like organza, silk and cotton to keep you cool. For classic comfort that still carries the wowfactor, look to Lanvin where you’ll find the ultimate range of grown-up race-day dresses.” If you’re looking for something a littler bolder, Hawke recommends florals. “Floral prints are big news and look great for daytime dressing. Look to the feminine but fashion-forward floral organza dresses by Christopher Kane and the impossibly pretty, sheer floral pleats by Erdem and Nina Ricci for the best of the bunch.”

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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 you’ve seen it all? Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.

“Arguably the world’s most exciting new tourism hotspot” Travel Weekly UK Magazine. www.visitabudhabi.ae

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2/7/12 4:31 PM

SHO P/ FA S HIO N

And if you’re looking to rock the silhouette of the season, it looks like waists are in. “Nipped-in waists paired with full, below-the-knee skirts are the dress shape of the season seen at Christian Dior, Dolce & Gabbana and Diane Von Furstenberg,” says Hawke. According to Hawke, accessories are also an important part of crafting the perfect race-day look. “I suggest starting with the dress, then building on the look with a selection of carefully chosen accessories.”

Hats off The Dubai World Cup is one of the few events on the Dubai social calendar that requires ladies to wear hats, so it’s normal for attendees to go all out. This season wide-brim hats with feather-finish are popular as are brightly coloured fascinators with mesh and bow detail. Renowned French milliner Murmure by Spirit has created a selection of haute couture and luxury ready-to-wear designs which take their cue from this season’s hottest catwalk trends.

J A G U A R S T Y L E S TA K E S

Categories include ‘Best Dressed Lady’, ‘Best Dressed Man’, ‘Best Dressed Couple’ and ‘Best Hat’. Registration forms are available on the day from all Jaguar Style Stakes Registration desks located at Level 1, Concourse A, C & D and from the Jaguar Style Stakes Arena. Contestants must present themselves with a registration form at the Jaguar Style Stakes Arena located in the Apron Views. All entrants must be 21 or older.

THE RACE IS ON... - For high fashion with a twist, try Paule Ka at The Dubai Mall - If you want to turn heads, check out Stephen Jones at Saks Fifth Avenue, BurJuman - Philip Treacy, at Boutique 1, is famed for his unusual designs

6 Maison du Posh 7 Perrin Paris 8 Christian Louboutin 9 Dubai World Cup attendees 10 2011 ‘Best Dressed Couple’ (centre)

Best foot forward Footwear also presents its dilemmas as much of the day is spent pacing the greens. “Make sure that your shoes are comfortable,” says Lundberg. “You will be in them all day and hobbling is not a good look. If your shoes are new, wear them around the house beforehand with a pair of socks on to stretch them. Nothing looks worse than a girl struggling in heels – especially on grass.” Hawke agrees that comfort is the name of the game but race goers need not sacrifice style. “Wedges are incredibly on trend and are really the only way to go if you’ll be anywhere near the grass. Alternatively nothing looks more elegant than some pretty flats. Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo both have amazing selections which are perfect for race day.” Now that you have your fashion bases covered, the only quandary left is which horse to back on the day.

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CustomerInformation Information Line Customer Line 800-TIME (800 8463) 800-TIME (800 8463)

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Watch and learn Choosing a timepeice is trickier than you think

Q w o r d s b y c h a r l o t t e va n d e n b r o u q u e

A manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s watch serves as his single most important fashion accessory, making an important statement about his style, taste and personality. With a plethora of watches on the market from vintage styles to those boasting cutting-edge technology, and everything in between, it can be easy to get lost in the search for styles and specifications. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re choosing a watch that represents your sporting passions or searching for the perfect black-tie accessory, Concierge shines a light on some of the most desirable timepieces for any occasion.

Image courtesy of BAUME & MERCIER

W a t che s / s hop

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BLACK TIE Dunhill Black Diamond This elegant, 38mm watch is distinguished by a striking dial, featuring crushed black diamonds mixed into lacquer. Inspired by the perpetual elegance of ‘black tie’, the watch has an automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre movement which is illustrated by the double-line feature on the dial and crown.

Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Cadran Love Flying Tourbillion The beauty and intricate detail of the mechanical movement is revealed for all to see in this stylish Cartier watch. Roman numerals have been chiselled into solid white gold and angle downwards into the dial, where the tourbillion appears to be weightlessly suspended over the bridges of the watch. The blue hands bring a splash of colour, matching the sapphireset crown. The modern, graphic design of this timepiece will keep the lucky wearer captivated and the painstaking details that have gone into this elegant watch are sure to be admired for years to come.

EVERYDAY A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down

Baume & Mercier Classima

A. Lange & Söhne has combined technical excellence wit h an appreciat ion for watchmak ing aesthetics with this newly updated chronograph. This well-balanced watch is a stylish timepiece that can be worn every day and for any occassion. A sapphire-crystal caseback reveals technically fascinating and beautifully intricate chronograph movements, including t he precisely jumping minute counter and the wheel that controls the chronograph functions.

With the mantra ‘Accept only perfection’, it’s not surprising that Baume & Mercier reaches the upper echelons of timepiece design. The new Classima collection aims to please with its classic- meets-modern blueprint. This chic watch comes with high-precision self-winding mechanical movements and a sapphirecrystal back so that the beautiful oscillating weight can be viewed. ‘Life is about moments’, says Baume & Mercier, and this watch certainly takes you from one to the next in one stylish swoop.

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info@levant.com www.levant.com

AL QASR – +971 4 4486092

ATLANTIS – +971 4 4503622

ZABEEL SARAY – +971 4 4357556

sho p/ Wa tches

SPORTS TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph Steel & Brushed Ceramic

WHERE TO BUY

In the 150 years since the brand was founded, TAG Heuer has become known as a leader in the field of sports watches. For the 2012 season TAG Heuer has launched a collection of brand new Formula One watches, co-engineered with the F1 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team and inspired by high-performance automotive technology. This 42-millimetre, quartz-movement chronograph features a diamond-tough brushed black ceramic bezel with an eye-catching silver tachymeter scale. The three black chronograph counters measure to 1/10 th of a second with the hour counter at 6 o’clock, the minutes counter at 9 o’clock and the second counter at 3 o’clock.

Available from Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons 04 3323777 Located in: All major shopping malls as well as Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Grosvenor House, Dubai, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Own a little piece of history with the unique Omega Speedmaster collection. Since 1965, the Omega Speedmaster Chronograph has been flight-qualified for all NASA-manned space expeditions. Possibly the most highly tested watch in the world, you can be assured that this timepiece can withstand zero gravity conditions, extreme shocks and a temperature range from -18 to +93 degrees Celsius. This black-themed edition is crafted in 18-carat orange gold and the 44.25-millimetre case is contrasted with a dramatic black ceramic bezel. The copper content in the gold enhances the orange glow and contributes to the watch’s vivid shine. The sleek design is finished with a matching black leather strap.

TAG HEUER, BAUME & MERCIER, A.LANGE & SÖHNE, HERMÈS

DUNHILL, OMEGA

Available from Rivoli 800 RIVOLI (748654) Located in: All major shopping malls as well as the Burj Al Arab, the One&Only Royal Mirage, the Dusit Thani Dubai, Grosvenor House, Dubai, The Address Downtown Dubai, the Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the Gold & Diamond Park, The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and the Media Rotana. GIRARD-PERREGAUX

Available from Damas 04 4459000 Located in: All major shopping malls CARTIER

Available from Cartier 04 4340434 Located in: All major shopping malls

The column-wheel chronograph movement has been entirely designed by experts at Girard-Perregaux and automatically self winds

CLASSIC Girard-Perregaux 1966 Chronograph With a heritage that spans more than two centuries, GirardPerregaux has had a considerable length of time to become one of the most respected haute horologists in the world. This classically elegant, vintage-style timepiece measures 40 millimetres in diameter and features two chronograph counters. The column-wheel chronograph movement has been entirely designed by experts at Girard-Perregaux and automatically self winds. The movement is made up of 304 individual parts including 38 jewels, which are visible through the sapphire display. Choose from a rose or white gold case and enjoy this timeless piece of watch mastery for ever.

Hermès Arceau Le Temps Suspendu Representing an impressive world first, Hermès aims to stop time, or rather the display of it, with the new Arceau Le Temps Suspendu. The timepiece features a special mechanism that allows the user to halt the march of the hands on the watch, returning them to the midday position, by pushing the button on the bezel at 9 o’clock. Whenever they wish to view the correct time and date – whether it’s minutes, hours or even weeks later – they simply push the button again and all three hands put themselves into their rightful places. The mechanism keeps track in the background, even when the time is suspended on the dial.

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Dubai: Deira City Centre, tel. +9714 29 59 331 Mall of the Emirates, tel. +9714 34 10 011 | Mirdif City Centre Tel: +9714-28 43 628

MA L L S / s hop

tour of duty No trip to these sunny shores is complete without a shopping excursion, but where’s a shopper to start?

Q W O R D s B Y c at h e r i n e l a n g l e y

Trade is at the heart of Middle-Eastern culture, so it’s not surprising that Dubai has become famed for its eclectic retail scene. Ranked just behind London as the second most-targeted retail destination in the world, the city eclipses established markets such as New York, Paris and Hong Kong. With this in mind, it’s little wonder that the emirate has become a choice destination for five-star shoppers with a passion for fashion. From world record-breaking retail bastions such as The Dubai Mall, which houses over 1,000 stores, to exclusive designer hot spots like BurJuman, the giant mega malls provide not only a comprehensive selection of the world’s luxury brands, but also unforgettable experiences. While retail therapy is paramount, entertainment is also plentiful in the form of indoor ski slopes, ice rinks, aquariums and zoos. So whether you’re haggling over precious stones in the Gold & Diamond Park or tackling black runs at the Mall of the Emirates’ ski slope, this city will provide a shopping experience you’ll never forget.

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The Dubai Mall Famous for its record-breaking size, The Dubai Mall was reported to have had a whopping 54 million visitors in 2011. To put that in perspective, this figure exceeds the annual number of visitors to New York City. Surprising? Not really when you consider that The Dubai Mall is a retail destination with more than 1,000 outlets, advertising everything from Balenciaga bags to botox injections (there’s a state-of-the-art skincare facility on the second floor). Fashionistas should check out Fashion Avenue, which is abundant with designer boutiques. From Dolce & Gabbana to Donna Karan, Stella McCartney to Shanghai Tang, Fashion Avenue could leave even the most seasoned shoppers jelly-kneed. Fortunately, if you do run out of stamina you can refuel at the rather stylish Armani/Dubai Caffè, which is located in the central area of Fashion Avenue. Parents are also in luck because The Dubai Mall is the ultimate entertainment hotspot. As well as KidZania, a top-notch edutainment centre where kids can role-play as adults, there’s a 22-screen cinema, an 8.3-metre-high by 32.88-metre-wide aquarium, which is home to a wide variety of marine life, an Olympic-sized ice rink and a Sega Republic indoor theme park.

CMY

Where: Downtown Dubai / Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday / Contact: 800 38224 6255

Mercato For those who enjoy shopping on a smaller scale, look no further than Mercato – an Italian-themed shopping mall located on Jumeira Beach Road. The unique blend of Tuscan and Venetian architecture, inspired by the Renaissance period, sets this mall apart from many others and while it’s smaller in size than most, it ticks all the retail boxes with a diverse mix of brands including Hugo Boss, Virgin Megastore and Massimo Dutti. One of Mercato’s major drawcards is Nail Spa, a ladiesonly manicure bar located on the first floor. Through the front doors you’ll find a tranquil world of water features, sleek bamboo furniture and an army of skilled manicurists waiting to polish nails to perfection. Mani/pedis are as much a part of Dubai life as shisha and shawarmas, so booking in for a file and polish is a rite of passage for any ladies new to these shores. Where: Jumeira Beach Road, Jumeira Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to midnight Friday and Saturday / Contact: 04 3444161

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BurJuman Located in Bur Dubai and close to the Creek, BurJuman is one of the city’s most timehonoured shopping malls. Well known for its diverse mix of luxury and high street fashion stores, the mall first opened its doors in 1991, but doubled in size in 2004 when an extension was added. A large selection of designer brands, including Donna Karan, Christian Lacroix, Cartier and Louis Vuitton set up shop in this area, taking the number of stores to over 300. The highlight of the mall is the impressive Saks Fifth Avenue, which is the largest store at BurJuman and home to labels unavailable elsewhere in the city, including Prada. Spread over the first and second floors, Saks houses perfumes, cosmetics and sunglasses on the first floor, while the second houses designer clothes, shoes and accessories. While BurJuman has extensive parking facilities, we recommend visitors use public transport in this area as road congestion can be problematic. The good news is that you can take advantage of the Dubai Metro, which stops in front of the mall. With 47 stations, operating on two lines (green and red), travellers are guaranteed a convenient route from almost anywhere in the city. Where: Bur Dubai Open: 10am to 10pm Saturday to Wednesday and 10am to 11pm Thursday and Friday / Contact: 04 3520222

The highlight of the mall is the impressive Saks Fifth Avenue, which is the largest store at BurJuman and home to labels unavailable elsewhere in the city, including Prada

Dubai Marina Mall Dubai Marina Mall is a coup for those staying at the five-star Address Dubai Marina Hotel, as the mall is directly linked to the hotel. While it may look diminutive in comparison to some of Dubai’s retail palaces, this marina-side mall holds its own, housing 130 stores including Balmain, Juicy Couture and jewellery powerhouse Damas. In addition to the retail offerings, there is also a six-screen cinema which shows the latest blockbusters and a number of dining spots which are popular with discerning diners. A big favourite is Italian eatery, Carluccio’s. Another big advantage of Dubai Marina Mall is its close location to the beach. After a spot of retail therapy, enjoy a stroll along The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, which is a beachside shopping promenade with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Where: Dubai Marina Open: 10 am to 10pm Saturday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday and Friday / Contact: 04 4361020

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Ibn Battuta Mall Uniquely designed to celebrate the travels of the famous Arabic explorer Ibn Battuta, this mammoth mall is divided into six different sections – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China – with exciting décor to match each area. Housing a diverse range of over 275 shops and 50 restaurants, there’s a lot of ground to cover. Fortunately the mall is conveniently constructed on one level, so navigation is relatively simple, making it the destination of choice for those who like to explore each and every shop. For the ultimate movie-watching experience, prepare to be well and truly wowed at Grand Cinemas, a 21-screen theatre and the UAE’s only IMAX. Where: Jebel Ali Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday Contact: 04 3621900

Budding artists should look out for the Community Arts Market, which is held on the first Friday of every month. From paintings to custom-made jewellery, it’s the place to be if you want to snap up works of art

Dubai Festival Centre If you like to shop the scenic way, Dubai Festival Centre with its pleasant waterfront walkways, outdoor cafés and unrivalled views of the historic Dubai Creek is the retail destination for you. Located in the heart of Dubai Festival City – a 1,300-acre urban community – this giant mall is home to a multitude of department stores, highstreet chains, designer-jewellery brands and a 12-screen cinema. Budding artists should look out for the Community Arts Market, which is held on the first Friday of every month. From paintings to custom-made jewellery, it’s the place to be if you want to snap up works of art. Musical Weekends at Festival Marina are held every Friday and Saturday night throughout the cooler months. With the stunning backdrop of Dubai Creek, musicians take to Dubai’s only f loating stage and entertain onlookers with a variety of musical acts. Where: Dubai Festival City Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday / Contact: 04 2325444

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www.leonardparis.com info@levant.com www.levant.com 0000_LEONARD_AP_A4_FRANCE.indd 2

AL QASR – +971 4 4486092

ATLANTIS – +971 4 4503622

07/12/11 16:46

ZABEEL SARAY – +971 4 4357556

[07 déc 2011, 16H53] A4_FRANCE_002.EROFK4.pdf

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Mall of the Emirates When it comes to unique selling points, how about 22,500 square metres of real snow in the desert? That’s what you’ll find when you visit Mall of the Emirates, because this jumbo-sized retail retreat is home to Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s first indoor ski slope. Suitable for all levels of skier, the mountain-themed attraction has green, blue, red and black runs, as well as an après ski café. To add to the fun Ski Dubai recently welcomed a colony of Gentoo and King snow penguins. Visitors to the ski slope can make their own ‘Peng-Friends’, through a unique one-on-one encounter with the birds. For fun that doesn’t require a hat, scarf and gloves, visit the 14-screen cinema, or try out Magic Planet. Admittedly, it is probably one of the noisiest indoor play areas in Dubai, but with the latest video arcade games and adrenaline-inducing rides, it is also one of the coolest. The Fashion Dome never ceases to amaze, with a multitude of designer brands under one roof. Just make sure you wear comfy shoes because you need a day to do it justice. For a slice of the dramatic, call into the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre. This 550-seat, two-level theatre stages internationally renowned plays, dance recitals and amateur dramatics for adults and children. Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, Umm Suqeim Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday Contact: 04 4099000

a l s o t ry. . . the gold souk Dubai, or ‘the city of gold’ as it is often referred to, is known for its gold souks. Bursting with culture and old-world charm, traders from around the world congregate in this marketplace to sell an array of treasures. Located close to Dubai Creek, this souk is a must-visit for those with a taste for finery. Gold & Diamond Park

In the words of Marilyn Monroe, ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend’ so for a one-stop shop for all your jewellery needs, head to the Gold & Diamond Park on Sheikh Zayed Road. This specialty mall has an unrivaled selection of 90 leading retailers. Visit www.goldanddiamondpark.com

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Discover Yol a d a nc e

Commonly seen at Emirati celebrations and cultural events, the yola is a traditional dance performed by men. Forming two facing groups, one line spins and throws canes or replica rifles while the other chants poetry. Such is the popularity of this cultural dance that competitions are often staged by local television networks and broadcast across the country.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

Arabian Knights One of the oldest horse breeds in the world, the majestic Arabian is a treasured part of UAE heritage

Q Words by Scott Birch

Noble, distinctive and highly prized, the Arabian horse is an important part of the UAE’s heritage. Famed for their speed and stamina, these horses were a significant part of Bedouin life, living alongside their human masters in much the same way we see the role of camels in desert life. The Arabian is easy to recognise thanks to its distinctive wedge-shaped head, wide forehead and high tail carriage. Arabians also have a small raised area between their eyes (called the jibbah by the Bedouin) which is believed to aid breathing in the arid desert climate. Although many Arabians appear to be white, and are often perceived as such, they are in fact grey. One of the oldest horse breeds in the world – evidence suggests as old as 4,500 years – the Arabian horse naturally originated in this region. The horses lived in close proximity to, and with reliance on, their human owners. But it was not just one-way traffic – the nomadic Bedouin required these horses to protect their way of life.

AR A BI A N HORS E S / DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER /A RA B IA N H O RSES

Myths and legends

Best of breed

Arabian horses have been the subject of many myths and legends down the years. One story from the Bedouin says that Allah created the Arabian from the south wind, with the following words: “I call you Horse; I make you Arabian and I give you the chestnut colour of the ant; I have hung happiness from the forelock which hangs between your eyes; you shall be the Lord of the other animals. Men shall follow you wherever you go; you shall be good for flight as for pursuit; you shall fly without wings; riches shall be on your back and fortune shall come through your meditation.” Another story tells how Muhammad chose his horses through a test of courage and loyalty. After a long journey through the desert, Muhammad let his horses free to race to the oasis. Before they reached the water, Muhammad called them back. Five dutifully responded and became his favourites – Al Khamsa, meaning “the five”.

Arabian horses have spread across the world by trade and warfare to now have their bloodlines in most breeds of horse. Arabians were bred to be war horses and aside from their stamina, their good nature and intelligence were also key factors. Indeed, it is this combination of brains and brawn that has endeared the Arabian to horse owners and breeders around the world. Living and working alongside the Bedouin for centuries in harsh conditions created a resilient breed that was also comfortable with humans. In harsh desert conditions, the horses became accustomed to depending on their human masters for food and water, and sometimes even fed on dates and milk. This ‘domestication’ distilled down generations of Arabians to create a breed that is good natured but that also commands respect.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ASTRID HARRISSON

“A love for horses runs in my blood. Don’t forget that horses have been bred for centuries by Arabic tribes, they were used for hunting and fighting and they symbolise our history. Horse riding is more than merely sitting on a horse’s back. It is nobility and chivalry,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

The Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship is a three-day celebration of purebred Arabian horses, showcasing their beauty, agility and heritage. The event will be held from March 15 to 17 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, and entry is free of charge.

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DIS C O VER /A RA B IA N H O RSES

Enduring appeal Arabian horses have dominated the sport of endurance riding in international events that often cover more than 160 kilometres. Arabians have not just excelled in endurance, but have also competed successfully in showjumping and eventing. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, is well known in equestrian circles for being the driving force behind the Godolphin stables, which have been successful in horseracing since their formation in 1994. As well as racing horses, Sheikh Mohammed is said to be involved in more than 700 endurance horses. However, Sheikh Mohammed is also an accomplished rider and has excelled in endurance racing around the world, both as an individual and as leader of the UAE national team. Sheikh Mohammedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sons Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Rashid have also topped the world ranking in the sport.

About the photographer International equestrian photographer Astrid Harrisson travels the world photographing horses. From the foothills of the Andes to the plains of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wild West, she has captured the spirit and character of the beloved creatures in a range of locations, including the UAE. Her work is on display in Dubai at The Majlis Gallery (04 3536233 or www.themajlisgallery.com), online at www.astridharrisson.com and in a new book written by Tamsin Pickeral, The Majesty of the Horse.

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AL QASR +971 4 4243892

BURJ AL ARAB +971 4 3483131

ZABEEL SARAY +971 4 4357558

SO MUCH TO SEE. SO MUCH TO DO.

SO MUCH TO LOVE Deira City Centre is where Dubai loves to shop. With over 370 stores featuring numerous international brands, local favourites and fashion choices, as well as entertainment for the entire family, 55 restaurants and cafés, a Metro station at the door step, free shuttle bus service to nearby hotels and other special services for tourists, there is definitely so much to love at Deira City Centre. Mall Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm from Sunday – Wednesday 10:00 am to midnight from Thursday – Saturday and holidays

You can also visit us at deiracitycentre.com

Join us on facebook.com/DeiraCityCentre

T OURI S T T RA I L / DIS COVE R

A shore thing With stunning sea views, luxury hotels and an abundance of trendy bars and restaurants, Palm Jumeirah is Dubai’s most exclusive neighbourhood and a must-see for all visitors

Nine years ago there was nothing but unbroken sea off the coast of Dubai. Now there is a 12-square-mile artificial archipelago dubbed ‘the eighth wonder of the world’. Visible from space, Palm Jumeirah certainly lives up to its moniker. Stretching four miles off shore and constructed from millions of tons of Arabian Gulf sand and quarried rock, the tree-like formation, which took five years to build, is home to an array of attractions including five-star resorts, highend shopping boutiques, luxury bars and restaurants, and the Middle East’s largest water park, Aquaventure. Like many areas in the emirate, the Palm Jumeirah is a visual spectacle. Everything from the mesmerising drive down the trunk, which gives a frontal view of Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, to the 16 fronds which are surrounded by a crescent island, is designed to make you stare. Visitors will

undoubtedly find themselves awestruck by the attention-grabbing architectural wonders and aquamarine waters that encircle the development, but while the views are stunning there is more to this colossal district than photo opportunities. No trip to the Palm Jumeirah is complete without a visit to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Just like the Bahamas-based alma mater, the Dubai outpost has captured the imagination of the world with its Fantasia-like design and aquatic theme. Outside the hotel, Aquaventure waterpark and Dolphin Bay offer juxtaposed entertainment experiences including high-octane rides and serene underwater activities. If pelting down the 27.5-metre-high Leap of Faith slide, which catapults riders into a transparent tunnel and through a shark-filled lagoon, doesn’t take your fancy, a gentle swim with dolphins might be another option.

For low-key beach fun, the Palm Jumeirah beach offers entertainment in abundance. Kayaking, banana boating and paddle boating sessions are run on the public beach and can be arranged through your concierge. To book directly, turn to page 118 for a list of activities and contact details. At night the relaxed atmosphere of the Palm Jumeirah is cranked up a notch. A buzzing ambience echoes around the area with Dubai’s ‘it’ crowd taking their pick of an assortment of stylish bars, such as superexclusive 101 Dining Lounge & Bar, which is located at the One & Only The Palm, Dubai and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s signature cocktail lounge, Voda Bar. Five-star restaurants are also in abundance and visitors can draw on the culinary expertise of Michelinstarred chefs such as Nobu Matsuhisa, who is at the helm of Nobu at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, and Yannick Alléno who heads up Stay by Yannick Alléno at the One&Only The Palm, Dubai.

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experience

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

The Majlis Gallery

Art lovers should allot some time to visit the delightfully quaint Majlis Gallery in Bastakiya. Opened in 1978 by British expatriate Alison Collins, the gallery is a meeting place for artisans and has a courtyard and exhibition rooms where work from local and international artists is on display. For more information call 04 3536233.

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being frank We meet Frankie Dettori, the world-champion jockey who’s hoping to take the lead at this year’s Dubai World Cup

Q Words by Claire Malcolm

Now in its 16th year, the Dubai World Cup Carnival may be nothing more than a whirlwind afternoon of high fashion and celeb-styled glitz for the casual racegoer, but its transformation from a fledgling race meet to world-class international sporting event has undoubtedly helped cement Dubai’s reputation as a sporting and leisure destination of note. As the popularity of this annual event has grown, so has the racecourse. From humble beginnings at the desert hinterland Nad Al Sheba track, to a golf club and two-grandstand destination, and now the world’s largest racecourse with the advent of the Meydan Grandstand in 2010, it is an impressive home for the world’s richest horseracing weekend. Legendary Italian jockey Frankie Dettori has been there since the beginning. An unmistakable figure clad in the silks of Sheikh Mohammed’s Godolphin stable, his career may have begun as an apprentice in the UK at the tender age of 16, but his long association with the emirate has been a personal game-changer. Today he’s nursing a cracked tooth, but the charismatic jockey and longtime star of the horseracing world is as effusive as ever when talking Meydan and Dubai World Cup. Born into a racing family – his father was an award-winning jockey in Italy – Dettori junior was destined to follow suit, and his career path has taken him from Europe to the Gulf, picking up virtually every top prize along the way.

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F R ANKI E D E T T ORI / E XPE R IE NCE

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EXPE R IENCE /FRA N KIE DETTO RI

“I first came here in 1994. It was at the very beginning of the Godolphin stable and they had brought over four horses, including the great Balanchine. The original Nad Al Sheba had a little grandstand and the landscape was just desert. I remember that the only tall building was the World Trade Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road and I stayed at the old Hilton hotel there. The trip was a real eye-opener,” he recalls. Dettori clearly has a huge soft spot for Dubai and has been a key player in the emirate’s turf scene since he first met Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE. After joining Sheikh Mohammed’s

renowned Godolphin stable, the star continued to soar. “I joined Godolphin the same year and was then spending winters out here. I remember back then that everybody kind of knew one another and there were only a few places to hang out at,” he says. “I was playing golf at Al Badia yesterday and just looking at the landscape. It’s amazing what has happened in the last 10 years or so. It feels like I blinked and here we are!” he adds. While Dettori is nostalgic about the Dubai of yesteryear, he is in awe of its fast-track development, especially Meydan, Nad Al Sheba’s multimillion-dollar successor, as he explains: “Anybody who wants to be absolutely

DUBAI WORLD CUP D AY D I N I N G The Apron, situated between the track and the Meydan Grandstand, will once again be home to the popular Bubble Lounge and Irish Village with a variety of food and beverage outlets and DJ entertainment. Tickets AED350. The Meydan Grandstand also has a number of premium seating options offering a key vantage point over the racecourse for AED1,300-1,400 per person including food and select beverages. See and be seen at the Parade Ring Lounge with a buffet dinner and select beverages for AED1,200, or opt for the signature Tiered Restaurant where, for AED2,750 you can enjoy afternoon tea and a five-course dinner menu including select beverages.

gob-smacked should go and see Meydan. It looks like some Star Wars spaceship that just landed in the desert. I do miss the atmosphere of Nad Al Sheba as it was smaller and cosier. This is a 60,000-seater stadium and you’re only going to fill it for Dubai World Cup night, but for us in the industry it really is second to none. “It’s the newest racecourse in the world and to ride it is like galloping on a snooker table. It’s completely level, the bends are banked, the grass is fantastic. I don’t think there’s a better track in the world.” After 25 years in the business, Dettori’s list of wins reads like an encyclopedia of race meets, but his passion for the ride is still as strong as ever, as he explains: “I’m at stage three of my career. You start as a kid, with your dreams, and I’ve spent all my life working to fulfill those dreams. Now that I’ve done that I’m actually enjoying it. “Racing has become part of my life and although I haven’t got the pressure I used to have, I’m obviously still very competitive – I like to win, but I don’t go home and sulk anymore if I don’t.”

The Meydan Terrace, with its own private grandstand seating area, is reserved for groups of 10 or more with afternoon tea and international dinner buffet, including select beverages, at AED3,000 per person.

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EXPE R IENCE /FRA N KIE DETTO RI

His greatest achievement was winning the seven races at Ascot in 1996. In fact he’s won most of the world’s major cups – some more than once – with the “last piece of the jigsaw” his emphatic win at the 2007 Epsom Derby, which completed his run of the five UK classics. His favourite Dubai race win is an obvious one. “It was riding Dubai Millennium to victory in 2000. That was my favourite Dubai World Cup win for several reasons,” he says, adding: “The horse was Sheikh Mohammed’s favourite; it was the year 2000; Dubai Millennium was also the race favourite; and it was my first Dubai World Cup win. There was a lot of pressure on all of us, not just me, so it tasted twice as sweet to win – and it was a relief too.” And he still gets the same buzz on Dubai World Cup day over a decade later. “First of all, it is the richest race in the world. There’s not just one race, there are eight on the day with over US$35 million (AED128.5 million) in prize money, and that’s mind boggling,” he says. “Putting that kind of money into a competition means that you are going to attract the best horses and riders from everywhere – America, Japan, Europe, South America, Australia. We all meet here and have a good mash-up basically,” he adds, with a cheeky smile. There’s more to race day than simply the horse action and Dettori cites the trackside entertainment, fireworks display and concert as major value adds to the experience, adding: “Sheikh Mohammed definitely doesn’t do things by halves.”

M E Y DA N M I L E S T O N E S 1981

First thoroughbred race meeting takes place at the city’s camel track 1992

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum opens Godolphin Stable and Dubai Racing Club officially launched at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse 1993

Launch of Dubai International Jockey’s Challenge (the precursor to Dubai World Cup) 1996

First Dubai World Cup, won by American ‘wonder horse’ Cigar 2004

Dubai International Racing Carnival launched 2009

Well Armed wins the Dubai World Cup by a record-breaking 14 lengths 2010

The all-new Meydan Grandstand is unveiled during the Dubai International Racing Carnival 2012

Dubai International Racing Carnival renamed the Dubai World Cup Carnival

“Come Dubai World Cup night I’ll have seven rides and each one is a big one so it’s pretty demanding, plus you’re on an emotional rollercoaster which lasts for about five hours” While he is now racing simply for the love of the sport, he still feels like any first-time jockey preparing for a big race, as he explains: “It’s a unique day but, to be honest, it’s nervewracking for me. “Come Dubai World Cup night I’ll have seven rides and each one is a big one so it’s pretty demanding, plus you’re on an emotional rollercoaster which lasts for about five hours. By the end of it you’re punch drunk and exhausted.” Outside of racing, Dettori is a mad-keen sports fan and being here for Dubai World Cup Carnival season gives him the opportunity to indulge in his other favourite pastimes. “I love it because we’ve got the golf tournaments going on around the region, then there’s the tennis

and the horse races. The run-up to the World Cup is my favourite part, plus the weather picks up and you can get to the beach,” he says. He’s also a participant, not merely a spectator. “I play golf twice a week with my fellow jockeys. We take the mickey out of one another and there’s lots of friendly banter. I also enjoy karting when my son comes over. I haven’t been to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi yet, but will probably take him at some point,” he adds. Dettori’s foray into restaurateur territory, through his partnership in Frankie’s Italian Bar & Grill with outspoken British chef Marco Pierre White is a relatively new career avenue, but one that he hopes to pick up on once he hangs up his silks.

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EXPE R IENCE /FRA N KIE DETTO RI

“I was passing through London and he wanted to meet me, so we sat down for lunch and discussed his vision for a casual Italian family restaurant,” he recalls. With two busy outlets in the UAE and the pair on the lookout for new locations, he’s been pleasantly surprised by the brand’s success in the region. “I’m very happy with how well regarded Frankie’s is. When we started it was a bit of a challenge and then suddenly it took off. Marco chose a great menu. I don’t stand behind the stove and cook it myself, so we make a great team,” he says. He admits to donning the apron at home though, as he explains: “I love food and I like to cook, and that’s a bad combination for a jockey. My wife cooks for the kids and then I cook for us when I get home. I obviously have to watch my weight so I usually cook chicken or fish with vegetables. I cook a good pasta though and I enjoy cooking. It’s a good way to wind down.” While horses and racing will always be a part of his life, Dettori has already scotched the idea of becoming a trainer, thanks to his wife. “She says that I have

the attention span of a f lea. So I will probably do a bit of TV commentating and also follow up with my restaurants,” he remarks. It looks like he may be spending more time here in future. “I’ve talked to my wife about it and we are planning to use Dubai as a base in maybe five to 10 years’ time and become full-time residents. We definitely get spoiled by the way things are here. When you go back to the UK you think ‘wow’.” Looking back on the last quartercentury, and forward a decade, Dettori, who is 41, would like to continue racing until he hits 50. “It depends on my physical ability, but I’m taking it a year at a time. As long as I still enjoy it and people want me, why not? “When I first started, I only wanted to be a jockey in Italy because my father was a champion for 13 years and set such a high standard, so I was quite reserved in my dreams. I never expected to go so far and if it wasn’t for Sheikh Mohammed and Godolphin then I wouldn’t be here. We took racing to another level and I’ve had a great time along the way.”

“I’ve talked to my wife about it and we are planning to use Dubai as a base in maybe five to 10 years’ time and become full-time residents. We definitely get spoiled by the way things are here”

New kid on the block Mirco d e m u r o c h at s t o C o n c i e r g e After his awe-inspiring win on Victoire Pisa at the 2011 Dubai World Cup, Italian jockey Mirco Demuro hopes to recreate last year’s success this month.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH / CORBIS / REUTERS

What was it like to win the Dubai World Cup in 2011? It was a complete surprise as I arrived here just a few days before and only had a couple of days with the horse. He was in good shape but we didn’t expect to come here and win the final race. When I passed the wire and realised that I had won I felt like it was a miracle. It was an amazing feeling. What’s it like to be back at Meydan? After I won last year I had to get on a plane the same night and go back to Italy as I was racing in Pisa, so I had no time to celebrate. When I came back to Dubai at the end of December I had the chance to have the party that I missed and it was great to come back and see the track again.

What excites you about racing at Meydan? It’s special because there are a lot of international trainers and racing people here, so the eyes of the world are on you. It’s also a beautiful track and very nice to race. It’s important for me to be racing here at Meydan. It’s very competitive, but obviously the harder the job, the more satisfying the win. What makes the Dubai World Cup so special, apart from your win last year? It’s a very high-profile event and winning the Dubai World Cup really does change your life. I had already won the Japanese Derby and other famous races, but this is the richest horse race in the world and it’s great for my reputation. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time in Dubai? We have a lot of spare time as we only race twice a week. We work hard in the morning but have plenty of time to discover the malls and I love going to the beach here while it’s cold back home.

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H RO N I S F

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S T A BL E T OUR/ E XPE R IE NCE

A Stable Companion With the 2012 Dubai World Cup rapidly approaching, now is the time to brush up on all things equestrian and the Meydan stable tour is the perfect way to do it

Q From the rhythmic thud of the horses’ hooves to the ecstatic applause of the glamorous crowds, the Dubai World Cup is one of the most thrilling events on the Dubai social calendar. The world’s richest horse race, with a prize purse of US$10 million (AED36.7m), the event attracts some of the biggest stars in the equestrian world, but while the likes of Frankie Dettori and Mirco Demuro draw crowds, it’s the thoroughbreds who are the real superstars. Immaculately groomed and soaring in stature, these magnificent creatures seem almost ethereal as they belt round the track at break-neck speed. But while their performances are legendary (who could forget Dubai Millennium’s all-the-way six-length victory in 2000?), their spirit, stamina and ability to stay the course is very real. Trained by the world’s best, many of the competing horses are stabled at the world-famous Meydan Racecourse. Renowned for its state-ofthe-art facilities the equine stars are kept busy six days a week by the highly qualified team who skillfully put them through their paces.

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Secrets revealed Until recently equine training was a closely guarded art, with many experts keeping their extraordinary techniques close to their chests. But now it’s possible to gain some insight into the secret world of thoroughbred racing because the stables at Meydan Racecourse have opened to the public. Running three days a week – Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday – the stable tour takes enthusiastic visitors to a different stable each day, rotating between Satish Seemar’s Millennium stable, Musabah Al Muhairi’s Oasis 1 and Ali Rashid Al Raihe’s Grandstand stable. The tour begins at 8am with breakfast at trackside restaurant Farrier’s at The Meydan and is followed by a two-minute bus journey from the hotel to the stables. On the day of the tour, we are met by Brett Williams who leads the excursion and is on hand to answer any questions. An amateur jockey turned television presenter for the Dubai Racing Channel, Williams informs us that we’ll be visiting Millennium stable, which is run by acclaimed Dubai-based trainer Satish Seemar. On arrival at the yard, the heady aroma of horses and the unmistakable sound of trotting hooves sets the scene. Millennium is home to 58 horses, aged between four and seven. The tour takes us through the horses’

Millennium is home to 58 horses, aged between four and seven. The tour takes us through the horses’ barn, where we have the opportunity to get up close and personal with prized thoroughbreds

barn, where we have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the prized thoroughbreds. Horse trainer Ivan Pavlovsky joins the tour and leads us through the yard, pointing out the treadmill for horses, the weighing scale, the swimming pool, the blacksmith area and the rider’s room, where he explains some of the equipment that is used on the horses, be it saddles, blinkers or ear plugs. A few moments are also allocated in order to view a young thoroughbred as it does a length of the 80-metre pool. According to Williams, “racehorses have extremely fragile tendons, which can snap when put under pressure. Because of the high impact running they do, the daily swims are a low-impact way to keep the muscles supple.” This explains why, on average, 70 percent of a racehorse’s exercise is done in water. The horses also workout on the track once a day for around 15 minutes. Depending on their energy levels they may work out six or seven days a week. In addition to the daily exercise routines, the horses are also closely monitored by a skilled team of grooms, trainers and vets. Each stable has a vet on site.

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Off limits

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

From the stables, the tour continues to the Meydan Horse Atrium, where a horse-shaped skylight introduces natural light along the length of Meydan Grandstand. Gazing out at the mammoth racecourse from the comfort of the hospitality suite, it’s easy to imagine how this grandiose space comes alive during the Dubai World Cup, when the crème de la crème of the Dubai racing community unite for the main event. The tour proceeds to the Horse Connection Lounge which gives a bit of insight into how the horses are prepared before each race. The tour then continues to the Jockey’s Lounge. Ordinarily this area would be strictly out of bounds for the average racegoer, which makes peering inside all the more thrilling. To the untrained eye the Jockey’s Lounge is just your average locker room, but a quick glance at the names on the doors reveals that many stars of the racing world (including three-time Dubai World Cup winner, Frankie Dettori) regularly gather here ahead of races. The tour concludes with a visit to the parade ring, where horses, riders, trainers and jockeys congregate before big races at Meydan. Make sure you take this opportunity to snap some pictures as no stable tour is complete without a track photo.

The Meydan stable tour runs on Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesday. It is priced at AED250 for adults and AED200 for children (4 to 12), and lasts from 8am to 11am. For bookings, email stabletours@meydanhotels.com . Tours can be booked until the end of April.

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BOA T S HOW / E XPE R IE NCE

OCEAN’S ’12 Now in its 20th year the Dubai International Boat Show drops anchor once again on March 13. Concierge checks out what’s on deck

Q Marine enthusiasts can look forward to some maritime merriment this month as the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) plays host to the 20 th Dubai International Boat Show. The event, which gets under way on March 13 for five days, sees more than 25,000 visitors congregating for the region’s largest and longest running boat show. The boating bonanza will attract those who want to keep up with the latest nautical trends, buy boats, purchase gadgets, or simply take pleasure in looking at some of the most impressive vessels ever launched. More than 750 leading international, regional and local companies will set out their stalls alongside companies specialising in marine equipment and supplies. The show is a fun day out, even for those whose budgets don’t quite stretch to a superyacht. The venue itself, which is ideally located on Dubai’s enchanting waterfront, next to the Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and Palm Jumeirah, is an idyllic setting whether it’s during the day, when the aquamarine water mirrors the blue sky, or at sunset, when the sleek outlines of the yachts are silhouetted against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf.

EXPE R IENCE /B O A T SHO W

A family entertainment area is located away from the water, so parents with young children can enjoy the day without safety worries

Anybody who’s anybody

What to expect

Industry leaders such as Azimut, Hatteras, Princess Yachts, Sunseeker, Benetti and Gulf Craft – which will celebrate its 30 th anniversary this year – will be showcasing their latest lines. Oceano, Sanlorenzo Trinity Yachts and Lurssen Yachts will also be present alongside an array of first-time exhibitors including Al Rubban, O2 Marine and Lanka Marine. For the best known and most respected names in superyacht circles, the Dubai International Boat Show is synonymous with success, says one exhibitor. “It comes as absolutely no surprise to us that the 20 th Dubai International Boat Show is attracting so many world-class superyacht builders,” says Michael Breman, sales director at Lurssen Yachts. “For Lurssen, the event has always been an excellent opportunity to showcase our most innovative and sophisticated yachts and introduce the brand to an equally sophisticated audience.”

Away from the superyachts, the wider marine area has a great array of small to mediumsize boats, from high-speed powerboats to fishing and smaller pleasure boats. A family entertainment area is located away from the water, so parents with young children can enjoy the day without safety worries. Running parallel to this year’s show are a number of diverse events and there’s something to suit every taste. The Gulf Boating Conference, which is the only maritimededicated convention in the region, is the perfect place for visiting marine professionals who want up-to-date regional market news. There is also the Dive Middle East Exhibition, which looks set to be a big draw for the many avid divers among the show’s visitors. The event offers a unique platform to showcase the latest in diving equipment, supplies, services and destinations. Car buffs are also in luck because the Supercar Promenade is back again this year. Billed

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EXPE R IENCE /B O A T SHO W

The Dubai International Boat Show takes place between March 13 and 17 at the Dubai International Marine Club at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. The show is open between 4 and 9.30pm daily. Admission: AED60 per person. Children under 12 go free, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

as the most exclusive automotive event in the Middle East, the promenade will showcase luxury cars from the industry’s best-known brands. It’s set to be a heady combination of supercars displayed alongside superyachts and a treat for fans of sleek, luxury machines, whether for sea or land. There is also a glamorous social side to the show. Every night the lights of the marina twinkle over the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf and the clink of crystal glasses is heard as Dubai’s glitterati make their way along the gangways to mingle and have fun. The yachts host some of the most opulent parties held in Dubai – though they are for private guests only (unfortunately, therefore, not included in the admission price). Still, for those lucky enough to land one of those coveted invitations, there are few better ways to spend an evening than sipping Champagne and watching the marina lights from the polished decks of a sharply designed yacht. Some of the visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show will buy boats. Some will merely dream of buying boats. All, however, will be inspired by the beauty of the vessels gathered together for this special week at DIMC.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH AND DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

Contact: www.boatshowdubai.com

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stars, fOOd & art 7 chefs, 12 Michelin stars | tuesday 3rd april 2012

a unique culinary experience, gathering Michelin starred and celebrity chefs On Tuesday 3rd April 2012, the Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach will host the ‘Stars, Food & Art’ culinary gala event. A ‘first’ for the Middle East, 7 international renowned chefs, together representing 12 Michelin stars, will prepare their signature dishes during an exclusive dinner by the pool. The event will be further enhanced by live artistic performances. Tickets to this exclusive event are available for: aed 2500 per person or AED 22000 for a table of 10 8-course dinner including premium beverage pairing Private gourmands as well as companies will be able to partake in this unique gastronomic experience.

Thomas Bühner ***. La Vie, Osnabruck | Claire Clark ***, The French Laundry, California Giovanni d’Amato **, Il Rigoletto, Reggiolo | Christophe Aribert **, Les Terrasses, Uriage-les-bains Bernard Bach **, Le Puits St Jacques | Cyrus Todiwala, Spice Namaste, London | Joe Barza, Chase, Beirut

Information and reservations T. (+971) 4 448 4851 or H6146-FB2@sofitel.com Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina, UAE

www.starsfoodart.com

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Taste To r o To r o

Dubai is famous for its Friday brunches and one of the latest five-star restaurants to introduce a brunch menu to its bill of fare is pan-Latin restaurant Toro Toro at Grosvenor House, Dubai. Envisioned by acclaimed chef Richard Sandoval, the menu boasts a variety of delicious South American delicacies and culinary firsts. For bookings call 04 3998888.

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Dubai’s got talent And you thought Hollywood was where celebrities flocked. Dubai is the new hot bed for gastro stars who want to make their mark on a burgeoning culinary scene

Q W O R D S B Y C l a i r e M a l co l m

With more star quality than a general’s epaulette, Dubai’s culinary scene is attracting celebrity talent and high-profile restaurant brands faster than you can say Noma. But while René Redzepi is yet to bring the world’s best restaurant to Dubai, plenty of other chefs are already delighting diners around the city. And it’s an appetising list with culinary heavyweights such as Pierre Gagnaire, Yannick Alléno, Jamie Oliver and Gary Rhodes tucking their feet firmly under the Dubai dining table alongside wellknown restaurant names including Nobu, The Ivy Dubai, Hakkasan, La Petite Maison, Gaucho Dubai and Frankie’s Italian Bar & Grill, which is a collaboration between British celebrity chef Marco Pierre White and famed jockey Frankie Dettori. Added to the equation are home-grown, yet high-profile hotspots such as Table9 by Nick and Scott (pictured). For Rhodes, who opened his first restaurant – Rhodes Mezzanine – at the Grosvenor House, Dubai back in 2007, and a second, the popular Rhodes Twenty10 over the road at Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa in 2010, the attraction of Dubai for both diners and chefs is obvious. “Dubai and the UAE as a whole attracts an amazing international market of guests, almost becoming a culinary central point for everyone to visit,” says Rhodes.

C E LE BRI T Y RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

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Legendary three Michelin star French chef Pierre Gagnaire, who opened his sixth international restaurant – Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City in 2008, is another Dubai fan and echoes Rhodes. “The main reason I decided to open a restaurant in Dubai was the [hotel] people I met. They were so enthusiastic about the city and about the project, that I came here and discovered that there was a niche for quality,” he remarks. Dubai’s diverse population and the millions of international visitors it welcomes each year, is driving demand for new dining experiences, thanks in no small part to global media exposure and the cult status of some celebrity chefs in their own markets. The explosion of online commentators and food bloggers has also helped to raise Dubai’s dining profile. Sally Prosser, Dubai-based founder of www.mycustardpie.com (named as one of the world’s top 50 food websites by the UK’s Independent newspaper) talks trends. “There is still a young crowd here who are relatively affluent – despite the recession – made up of residents of all nationalities, and a constant

“The main reason I decided to open a restaurant in Dubai was the [hotel] people I met. They were so enthusiastic about the city and about the project” – Pierre Gagnaire

1 The Ivy, Dubai 2 Pierre Gagnaire 3 Jamie’s Italian

stream of tourists, many of whom are from the UK and Europe and who know these brands. There’s an exciting buzz in the city and anything new attracts a lot of attention,” she remarks. “Trends still play a big role – but this is true in a lot of major cities. I was on a flight from London recently and overheard some visitors mentioning Movida and Mahiki as destinations they would visit – brands they were familiar with. On the other hand, restaurants like Table9 by Nick and Scott and Okku both prove that real talent and passion can shine here, if given the opportunity,” she adds. Media hype aside, Dubai’s rise to prominence as a culinary hotspot has been a work in progress for well over a decade. One of the first brands to enter the region was American-Japanese import Benihana, through a partnership with Rotana Hotels. “We introduced Benihana to Dubai back in the 1990s and the trend for restaurateurs looking to expand overseas means that the city is a current front runner. Brands are now approaching us directly to open up here, which is completely different from when we first started with Benihana,” says Helmut

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6 PM

C E LE BRI T Y RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

Arthold, corporate vice president, food & beverage, for Rotana Hotels. The newest addition to the market from Rotana is German-Spanish molecular gastronomy devotee Juan Amador, holder of three Michelin stars, who has just opened his first Middle East venue in Abu Dhabi, with a second Dubai outlet to follow. According to Rhodes, the culinary scene here has “souffléd,” as he explains: “There are many great world-renowned chefs now operating in Dubai, which is good for all of us. It keeps the competition lively.” On the Asian front, Dubai already boasts a number of restaurants offering high-end Far Eastern f lavours, including Zuma and Nobu. The newest kid on the block is Hakkasan, London-based restaurateur Alan Yau’s modern take on Chinese cuisine, which opened its second UAE outlet in Emirates Towers in late 2011. “Dubai is a key business and leisure destination with a community that appreciates

4 Hakkasan 5 Nobu 6 Scott Price

high-quality gastronomy. These are the types of conditions in which Hakkasan flourishes,” says Henk Bruggeman, director of operations Middle East & China for Hakkasan. With more international openings scheduled for 2012, Bruggeman also credits the customer with contributing to the brand’s dual success in the UAE. “Dubai is not different from other markets in the sense that clients’ expectations are high. They are looking for novelty, vibrant flavours and faultless service. The city boasts a growing culinary landscape similar to any key cosmopolitan metropolis. These factors make it a great location for high-end restaurants.” Over at Nobu, which enjoys a prime location at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, restaurant manager Luke Bjoin also highlights 6

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spot-on service, as well as memorable food, as a crucial differentiator in an increasingly competitive market. “The initial appeal of Dubai from a culinary standpoint is the ability to source a variety of high-quality products. Everyone likes to go out to the newest hotels and restaurants, however, the key driver for repeat guests is the highquality products and personalised service that Nobu is able to deliver,” he says. Gagnaire is on the same page, but isn’t resting on his laurels in order to stay ahead of the game. And he walks the talk, with regular trips to the city and almost daily communication with head chef, Oliver Biles. “The most important thing here is to last. We have the potential to become a major dining destination, but we have to carry on working hard in order to be better and better.” “It’s very easy to stick your name above a door, but it is vital to me to honour the restaurant the name sits upon, and with that, do nothing but develop the culinary skills of the team we’ve introduced,” adds Rhodes. Some celebrity names have been and gone, notably Gordon Ramsay who launched Verre at the Hilton Dubai Creek over a

7 Gary Rhodes 8 Rhodes Twenty10 9 Toro Toro

Some celebrity names have been and gone, notably Gordon Ramsay who launched Verre at the Hilton Dubai Creek. His departure provided an opportunity for his former protégés Scott Price and Nick Alvis

f o o d i e s p l ay fav o u r i t e s Sally Prosser, mycustardpie.com

Gary Rhodes is hands-on enough to know what works well here, while Giorgio Locatelli is a big inspiration to the team at Ronda Locatelli at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Scott Price, Table9

Rivington Grill at Souk Al Bahar and Amala at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray really fit the bill. At the higher end of the spectrum, Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire sets a standard for the city. Okku has great food and service. Luke Bjoin, Nobu

La Petite Maison and Caramel at DIFC, as well as the new Hakkasan at Jumeirah Emirates Towers and Toro Toro at the Grosvenor House, Dubai are all great additions to the market.

decade ago. His departure provided an opportunity for his former protégés Scott Price and Nick Alvis, who opened their own brand, Table9 by Nick and Scott, on the site of Verre in late 2011. “Having all the influential and trendy international brands set up in Dubai is testament to the city’s financial climate and it definitely has the potential to be a major dining destination, but hotel operators in Dubai need to take a chance on the less well-known chefs. We feel that this will be when things really start to happen, and bring some real personality to the city’s dining scene,” remarks Price. He believes that the city is getting close to saturation point in terms of international brand presence and is leading the charge to showcase homegrown venues in order to create a recipe for success that will position Dubai as a culinary trendsetter as well as emulator. As Sally Prosser points out, at the end of the day taste is subjective and as much as we are influenced by the annual ‘what’s hot and what’s not’ listings, Dubai offers an incredibly diverse culinary experience for visitors and residents alike. She sums it up perfectly. “Dubai is so multicultural, that one person’s celebrity is another’s non-entity.”

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OUT D OOR D I N I N G/ t a s t e

feast your eyes For stunning views and the chance to take advantage of the mild climate Concierge road tests Dubai’s best alfresco dining spots

Q No matter where you are in Dubai, you’re never far from a breathtaking view. Whether it’s the rolling fairways of the many golf courses which pepper the city, the rustic charm of the Dubai Creek or the tranquil beachfronts which run along the west side of the emirate, there is no shortage of beautiful scenery in this part of the world. Added to this is year-round sunshine and a wide selection of restaurants, meaning visitors can take their pick from an assortment of open-air venues. Nineteen at The Address Montgomerie is well known for its lush greens, while the mesmerising coastline at Beach Bar & Grill at the One & Only Royal Mirage provides an idyllic backdrop for romantic diners. For those who hanker after the more traditional side of the city, Creekside, at Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers is an atmospheric dinner spot abundant with old-world charm. Dubai is also famous for its modern wonders and there is no better place to enjoy them than at Armani/Hashi (pictured). In addition to the delectable Japanese menu visitors can enjoy the spectacular display of The Dubai Fountain while they dine alfresco on the terrace, at the foot of the Burj Khalifa. A traditional desert experience is also within reach at Al Hadeerah Desert Restaurant at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa and for a marina view, look no further than The Terrace at Park Hyatt Dubai.

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t a st e /O UTDO O R DIN ING

Armani/Hashi

Fountain view With 450-foot water bursts, a dazzling light show and the dramatic vocals of Celine Dion and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, there aren’t many attractions in the city that eclipse The Dubai Fountain. With this in mind, it’s not surprising that Armani/Hashi, which has front-row views of the display, has become a top choice for discerning diners who wish to take in the many modern wonders that Dubai has to offer. Located at the Armani Hotel Dubai, this trendy Japanese eatery has a sophisticated ambience and the sleek décor has been spectacularly conceived with a blend of dark wood and light tones. The floor-toceiling windows, which give way to spectacular views of The Dubai Fountain and Downtown Dubai, is the finishing touch. The menu is no less captivating and Koreanborn speciality head chef, Jin Chul, has done a fantastic job of crafting the extensive menu, which includes culinary masterpieces such as tako no kari kari tempura (octopus tempura), karai so-su ishi ebi (rock shrimp) and teriyaki Angasu gyu to mame (Angus beef tenderloin). While it doesn’t appear on the menu, salmon belly is also available by special request and it comes with our highest recommendations. Deliciously soft and melt-in-the-mouth, this rare delicacy will not disappoint. Location: Armani Hotel Dubai Open: Daily 7 to 11pm / Tel: 04 8883888

Creekside

Creek view Home to the world’s tallest tower, biggest shopping mall and a multitude of other marvels, Dubai wins plaudits for its many modern masterpieces. But for a touch of traditional charm, head to Deira in Dubai’s old quarter and enjoy a meal by the Creek. Creekside at the Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers serves authentic Japanese cuisine and is well known for its generous buffet, which overflows with everything from tempura to teppanyaki. While the hot selection is startlingly good, be careful not to bypass the sushi which also stands out as exceptional. While Creekside’s menu speaks for itself, the restaurant is also famous for its stunning terrace, which overlooks Dubai Creek. Dine alfresco in the evenings and watch the enchanting waters, which are full of activity as the dhows, abras and river restaurants go about their nightly business. Location: Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Open: Daily 7 to 11pm / Tel: 04 2281111

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Nineteen

Golf course view Overlooking the lake and rolling greens of The Montgomerie Dubai golf course, this pictureperfect venue is an idyllic spot for visitors who wish to take in the views while enjoying a delectable bill of fare. With expertly placed spotlights, the still waters of the lake and the gently swaying palm trees make evenings a particularly pleasant time for diners. Alternatively, Nineteen is famous for its mouthwatering afternoon tea, which is available from Sunday to Thursday from 1 to 5.30pm. Carnivores are also in luck because Nineteen has been cementing its reputation with a traditional British Saturday roast. A glimpse at the open kitchen reveals roasted meats on display and the experience is further heightened when your meal arrives on a wooden platter with a healthy serving of small stuffing balls, Yorkshire puddings and roasted potatoes.

Location: The Address Montgomerie Dubai Open: Sunday to Thursday 7pm to midnight, Friday and Saturday noon to midnight / Tel: 04 3905600

Beach Bar & Grill

Sea view Dubai is famous for its coastline and azure waters so no trip to the emirate is complete without a meal on the shore. For a beachdining experience to be treasured enjoy the torch-lit terrace and fabulous ocean views of Beach Bar & Grill. Located at the superexclusive One & Only Royal Mirage, this is one of the few venues in Dubai where diners can enjoy their meals right on the beach. While it goes without saying (weather permitting) that diners should book a table on the quaint veranda, it’s also worth taking a moment to enjoy the blissful ambience indoors. An open kitchen showcases a busy team of chefs, hard at work crafting culinary

works of art such as the beach platter, which includes half a poached lobster, prawns, smoked salmon, oysters and mud crab. Other mouthwatering masterpieces are the grilled king fish steak and the baked whole red snapper, which comes highly recommended from the maître d. While the main courses work wonders for discerning palates, leave some room for a piece of warm chocolate cake served with espresso ice cream. Admittedly, it’s high in calories, but you can walk it off in the peaceful grounds that surround the One & Only Royal Mirage. Location: One & Only Royal Mirage Open: Daily 7pm to 11.30pm Tel: 04 3999999

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The best fur brands

MANOEL COVA.pdf

28-02-2007

14:50:26

CMY

Made in Italy JBR Walk opposite Ritz Carlton Hotel Dubai-UAE Tel: +971 4 454 1338

t a st e /O UTDO O R DIN ING

Al Hadeerah Desert Restaurant

Desert view While Dubai is dominated with Arabic restaurants, there are very few eateries in the city which serve time-honoured Emirati cuisine. For that, we recommend you take a trip to Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, where you’ll find Al Hadeerah Desert Restaurant. Built to resemble a fortified Arabian desert village, the rustic-looking outdoor venue serves a variety of exquisite Emirati dishes, including ouzi – a whole roast lamb stuffed with fragrant rice. Cooked the traditional way in a pit full of lit charcoal, the dish is a tender taste of Arabia and bursts with flavour as soon as it touches the lips. The exquisite menu is a drawcard on its own, but food aside, Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant offers diners a oneof-a-kind experience. The central square, which has been crafted to look centuries-old, is filled with belly dancers, henna painters, live bands and falcon trainers. The best time to enjoy a meal at Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant is at sunset. With mesmerising views over the rolling dunes, this quaint desert escape brings you as close as you’re likely to get to a genuine Bedouin experience. Location: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Open: Daily 7pm to midnight / Tel: 04 8096100

The exquisite menu is a drawcard on its own, but food aside, Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant offers diners a one-of-a-kind experience The Terrace

Marina view While Dubai Marina is known as the city’s most famous wharf, don’t overlook the subtle charms of Dubai Creek Marina. Located in the historically rich area of Deira, the Rivierastyle harbour is abundant with fine eateries, including The Terrace at the Park Hyatt Dubai. With cosy low lighting and the gentle sounds of the mooring boats, The Terrace is an excellent spot for a romantic alfresco meal, with the added bonus of the opportunity to gaze at the nearby yachts. On top of the stellar location, the bona-fide bill of fare is in a league of its own. Delicious dishes such as calamari and squid provide a tantalising treat. Location: Park Hyatt / Open: Daily 12pm to 2am / Tel: 04 6021234

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my dubai

Art Dubai marketing manager, Farah Atoui, shares her thoughts on how to see the best of the city

I’m originally from Lebanon and have been in Dubai for four and a half years. There are so many great things about this city but one aspect I enjoy is the buzzing art scene. Al Serkal Avenue in Al Quoz has a fantastic range of up-and-coming art galleries and Traffic Gallery in Umm Suqeim is well known for its artistic shows and screenings. The gallery recently hosted acclaimed visual artist, Bunty, who gave a fantastic performance. When I’m not taking in the art scene, I like spending time in Karama, which is a residential and shopping district close to Dubai Creek. It has a distinctive vibe and an old-world feel. Another favourite place of mine is Kite Beach in Umm Suqeim. For something further afield I like to go camping in southern Oman. The scenery is stunning and you can’t beat the feeling of waking up by the sea. My favourite event has to be Art Dubai. In addition to enjoying the great art, it’s an opportunity to discover new artists, projects and galleries. This year it will be held from March 21 to 24.

1 Bastakiya 2 Karma Kafé

Moulay Youssef on Jumeira Beach Road is where I go to indulge in authentic Moroccan cuisine – you won’t find a better lamb tagine anywhere else in town. Another hidden gem is Samad on Muraqqabat Street in Deira. Serving traditional Iraqi food, this is where to head if you’re craving masgouf fish. For sushi you can’t beat Tokyo-inspired Kisaku at the Al Khaleej Palace Hotel in Deira and for fantastic French fare you won’t be disappointed by La Petite Maison at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). For a night out with the girls I like Karma Kafé at Souk Al Bahar. When I have friends in town I take them to Bastakiya. This is an area which shows the true essence of ‘old Dubai’. Afterwards I take them for a ride on an abra (water taxi) followed by a visit to DIFC, where there is a variety of interesting galleries to peruse. When I need a bit of retail therapy I head to The Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. It’s spacious, airy and has a great line-up of shops. What more could you want from a shopping mall?

When I have friends in town I take them to Bastakiya. This is an area which shows the true essence of ‘old Dubai’

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the guide

shop / discover / experience / taste

malls / souks / markets / art galleries city tours / culture / museums adventure / family activities / sports hotel outlets and promotions / city dining

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SHOP From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shopper’s dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

Though not a mall, this 1.7km-long shopping promenade, will eventually host nearly 300 retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue and Aiyanna of London.

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am

New Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 4361000

Spread over four levels and 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

to midnight. Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

Downtown Dubai BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3198999

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

04 3685140

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Nakheel Harbour & Tower Map reference: A1

04 3520222

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

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

BURJUMAN

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

04 4099000

Timings: Daily10am 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

04 3622222

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

GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

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

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

SHOPPING ETIQUETTE Women should make sure that shoulders and the top half of legs are covered in Dubai’s malls and souks. Keep in mind that the UAE is a Muslim country and respect its culture. Take care not to wear anything too revealing or suggestive. Comfortable, light clothing is recommended, but it’s wise to carry a wrap or jumper in shopping malls as the air conditioning can be chilly. Refrain from public displays of affection. 112

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LAMCY PLAZA

04 3359999

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

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

04 3444161

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 an seven-screen cinema and a children's play area. Throughout the year Mercato also hosts various entertainment acts in the central area.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D1

3 1. Sand art 2. Dubai Marina Mall 3. Spice Souk 4. Versace 5&6. Khan Murjan 7. Mercato

OASIS CENTRE

04 5154000

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

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

04 3461462

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 1.30pm to midnight Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1 THE DUBAI MALL

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. In addition to over 1,000 shops, this mall is home to the world’s largest indoor gold souk, an Olympic-sized ice rink and aquarium.

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

04 3494444

A selection of boutiques such as S*uce and Candella, a high-end bridal store, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.

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

04 3418020

A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion. Also boasts the region’s only ice lounge.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 11pm. Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2 6

23/02/2012 11:23

T HE GUI D E / S HOP

WAFI

04 3244555

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

SOUVENIR

IDEAS

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

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

Dubai Festival City/Deira

06 5316611

SAHARA CENTRE

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm. Fri 2 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 such as French Connection and Levi’s.

SOUKS

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 ARABIAN CENTRE

04 2845555

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

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

www.dragonmart.ae

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. 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 midnight 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: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3 7

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LABEL STABLE

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

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

Shisha, sometimes referred to as hubbly bubbly, is a water pipe used for smoking flavoured tobacco and can be found at cafés and bars across the city. This is an authentic and traditional souvenir that can be easily bought in Dubai. Tobacco and coals are also readily available. The khanjar is the traditional dagger of Oman, carried by men in a sheath, decorated with silver and worn on a belt similarly decorated. Ornamental and sometimes very elaborate daggers can be found in Dubai’s souks; a great souvenir reflecting the region’s customs. Gold is popular with tourists visiting Dubai. The Gold Souk is a must for those looking to buy jewellery at affordable prices. Dubai’s souks have a huge variety of original and authentic souvenirs such as carpets, calligraphy art, scarves, Arabic oudh (perfume), wooden camels, jewellery boxes and glass perfume bottles.

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

REAL DEAL? The Gold Souk can be daunting, but don't be discouraged from taking the plunge. Find out the current price of gold per ounce from your concierge and decide whether the design you're considering is worth the added labour cost. The shops on the main streets tend to be more expensive than those in the smaller alleys, but are often more reputable.

SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

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 10pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1 SPICE SOUK Brimming with sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the Spice Souk is a feast for the senses.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

INDOOR GOLD SOUK

TEXTILE SOUK Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.

04 3627500

The world’s largest indoor gold souk, situated in The Dubai Mall, houses 220 gold and jewellery retailers and features a 25m x 13m atrium with multimedia shows.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 9pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 KHAN MURJAN

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

MARKETS

04 3244555

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 SOUK AL BAHAR

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

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

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

04 3627011

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2

800 33232

Alexander McQueen FA Armani BV, FA Balenciaga BV, MOE 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 Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE Elie Saab FA, TDM Emporio Armani BV, MOE Ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE Escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Etoile La Boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio Armani BV, MOE Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo Boss BJ, FA, MOE Issey Miyake GV John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA Kenzo BJ, FA Lanvin BV, FA Louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi 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 Tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Vivienne Westwood GV Yves Saint Laurent BV, MOE 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) GV Gate Village, DIFC (04 3600501) 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)

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

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

art galleries

GALLERY 76

satellite

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

A new studio that showcases work by American media artist James Clar.

04 3444398

Timings: Sat to Wed 8.30am to 5.30pm; Thu, 9am to 4pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

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

GALLERY etemad

04 3488797

04 3468649 1X1 Art Gallery

04 3411287

Exhibits striking artworks that feature 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

04 3469305

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 Center (DIFC).

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ARTSPACE

04 3230820

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am

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

04 4392395

GREEN ART GALLERY

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

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

04 3469906

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

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

04 3536233

This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features arts and exclusive crafts by local and international artists.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

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

to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to

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

10pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2

BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

04 4257888

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Map reference: A1 CARBON 12

050 4644392

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

04 3470209

marsam mattar

04 3988331

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

showcase GALLERY

Located on Jumeirah Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, Showcase specialises in contemporary and traditional art and photography and showcases work from local and international artists.

the Art source

04 2856972

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

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

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

the pavilion downtown dubai

04 4477025

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.

Timings: Daily 9am to midnight Map reference: D2 THE THIRD LINE

04 3411367

Closed Fri

TOTAL ARTS

04 3475050

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Sat 12 to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

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

traffic

04 4250400

04 3450900

04 3470209

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 1pm to 8pm Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Thu10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

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

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

Map reference: C2

04 3230909

pro- art gallery

Map reference: C2

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm.

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

OPERA GALLERY

1. Dubai Creek 2. Bastakiya 3. Jumeirah Mosque 4. Spice Souk 5. Opera Gallery 6. Dubai Marina Yacht Club

04 3477388

One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art. to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: B2

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C1

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

04 3477883

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries and sells art books and prints.

23/02/2012 17:03

DIS C O VER/THE GUIDE

XVA GALLERY

ART MARINE

Modern art on show in a 2,500 sq ft gallery in Gate Village in Dubai International Financial Centre.

Cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and Dubai Creek.

04 3585117

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 5pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: E1

04 4068825

Timings: From 7am into the night Guide price: From AED750 per hour

LOCAL SPEAK

CULTURE

CREEK CRUISES

CITY TOURS

04 3939860

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

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

04 3414777

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

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 available.

Timings: Flights depart

from 10am to 4.45pm Guide price: City tour AED1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hour-long tours AED3,060 per person FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4440007

04 3368406 Hire a dhow with dinner

boarding 8.30pm Guide price: AED200

04 3511117

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

adults; AED95 children (3-12 years); AED450 family (two adults and two children)

Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves.

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

Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE. SMCCU aims to break down barriers between nationalities.

WONDERBUS

Timings: Flights depart from

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

04 3536666

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

Land

04 3243000

SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150 for an evening dhow cruise

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

AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE

Map reference: B1

Timings: Daily boarding

Guide price: AED145

Water

This 442-seat luxury venue nestled within the souk hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film. See Essential listings for current performances

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 3pm Guide price: Prices start from AED500 (20 minutes), AED2,675 for up to six people

9am to 4pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 per person (40 minutes)

04 3666546

dinner cruise

04 3595656

04 8070708

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Timings: Daily

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

SEAWINGS

Map reference: B2

and transfers, butler service and unlimited beverages.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR

04 3536666

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

Tours run three times a week at this newly opened mosque. Timings: Sat, Mon, and Wed for one hour from 10.30am

Guide price: AED10 Map reference: C1 THE BIG BUS COMPANY

04 3407709

Hop aboard a double-decker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck.

Timings: Tours depart every 20

minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide price: Day tour – AED220 adults, AED100 children, AED540 family. Night tour – AED100 adults, AED75 children, AED275 family (two adults and two children)

Abaya Traditional black dress worn by local women Abra Water taxi or traditional wooden boat used to transport people across Dubai Creek Dhow Traditional wooden fishing boat, bigger than an abra

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

MUSEUMS

Labneh Traditional yoghurt drink, usually served with Arabic food

Manakeesh Popular Arabic food, consisting of dough with toppings such as cheese, thyme or ground meat, similar to pizza Shawarma A sandwichlike wrap usually filled with meat, such as chicken or lamb. Very popular across the Middle East Shisha A water pipe used for smoking flavoured tobacco. Sometimes referred to as hubbly bubbly

Prior to this, the seven emirates had lived in relative harmony, united through a protectorate treaty with Great Britain, which earned them the name the Trucial States. It was a successful partnership, but in 1968 the United Kingdom ended the treaty. In order to maintain security, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid reached out to their neighbours and in 1971 they signed an agreement, which signfied the creation of the United Arab Emirates.

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

Kandoura Traditional white dress worn by local men

Majlis A room or seating area usually used for entertaining guests

History in the making The earliest known habitation in this part of the world dates back as far as 5500 BCE. However, it was in 1971, when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi's ruler from 1966 to 2004, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990, set the wheels in motion with their neighbouring sheikhdoms, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ajman (Ras Al Khaimah joined in 1972) to form an alliance.

HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE

04 3937151 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 7.30am 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 glimps of times gone by.

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

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 8am to 9pm, Friday 3 to 9.30pm 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.

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

Attractions

FIRST YACHT

04 3754148

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

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED200 OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 2628889

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

04 2959477

Charter an exclusive yacht and sail modern icons including Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and The World islands.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED2,600 per boat ART MARINE

04 4068825

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

Timings: From 6am Guide price: From

AED750 per hour

BATEAUX DUBAI

04 3994994

Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow with international buffet and air conditioning.

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED150

per person

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573048

See world-famous offshore projects, including The World islands, on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.

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

24 hours for up to 7 people THE YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

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

Timings: From 8.45am onwards Guide Price: Adults from

AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477 Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along

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

Dubai Marina. Inclusive of buffet, drinks and live entertainment.

Timings: Daily boarding at

per adult and AED90 per child

8pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11.30pm Guide Price: AED330 CLUB MINA

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275

VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

04 3572200

04 3993333

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

Timings: From 7am Guide Price:From AED2,500

Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide Price: AED300 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises

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

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

Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

04 2340812

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

04 3357676

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

04 6028888

Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping. OASIS PALM TOURISM Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner. OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6532504

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

04 2826867

Expect innovative desert trips, tours between Dubai and Muscat and adventurous expeditions. PLANET TRAVEL & TOURS

04 2999339

Operates throughout Dubai and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi. ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS

TRAVCO

04 3366643

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

ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

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

Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED765

per person. City tour AED9,000 for five people (45 minutes)

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

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.

EL MUNDO

050 5517406

Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason). Entertainment can also be arranged.

Timings: From 2:30pm Guide Price: Adults AED250, children AED210

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

04 2682880

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

04 3572233

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

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Flying

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: AED275

1. Cruising 2. The Dinner Cruise from First Yacht 3. View from the Burj Khalifa observation deck 4. Skydiving 5. Shooting 6. Jam Jar 7. Camel riding in the desert

Drive over the dunes and view a desert sunset before heading to a traditional campsite.

ARABIAN ADVENTURES

04 3034888

04 2833335

DREAMDAYS

800 2080

04 2628889

04 2995155

5 6

Timings: From 8.30am to 5.30pm 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 7

23/02/2012 11:25

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

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

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

Timings: From 9am Guide price: Call for details

04 3244755

04 3254975/050 1002477

Take a 15-minute tour above Dubai and see all the iconic sights.

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED750 BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per

adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

04 4361400/04 4361422

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

ULTIMATE CHARTER

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

DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

Timings: Thu to Sat 10am to 10pm, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED160 with go-karting

04 8832999

Shooting (see Sports)

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

lessons AED960

04 2854949

Paintballing

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

Timings: 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

06 5383224/050 2032288

Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semi-automatic paintball guns and the latest anti-fog 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 Tue 10am to 11pm. Fri 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

04 3422993

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

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for

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

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

Amusements & attractions BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)

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 6.30pm, 7.30pm, 8.30pm and 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

Terrifying teeth Come face to face with the world’s ultimate predator at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The nailbiting shark dives feature more than 33,000 aquatic animals including sand tiger sharks, reef sharks, giant groupers and stingrays, making the underwater adventure an experience not to be missed. Plane sailing Get a birds-eye view of the city as you take off from and land on water in a thrilling seaplane safari. Marvel at awe-inspiring landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and The World islands. Gun games From trap and double trap to clay and skeet, try your hand at a number of fun-packed, sharp shooting activities. Head to the Jebel Ali Shooting Club and there’s also a 5,000 square metre archery range. Flying colours Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and watch the sun rise over the desert. This calm and serene experience is a wonderful way to see the emirate away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

FAMILY FUN

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

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free

Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to 7 year olds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.

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

Check out these top action-packed activities and experience Dubai at its best…

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

04 4297949

800 28843867

ACTION ADVENTURE

800 LEISURE (5347873)

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

Timings: From 2pm to

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

LITTLE EXPLORERS

02 4968001/ www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com Ride rollercoasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62 metres 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 fun ‘city’ in which children can fly aeroplanes, drive buses, work in restaurants and play a host of adult roles.

Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to 10pm,Thu 9am to midnight, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: AED 95 to 125

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: AED40 for first hour. AED10 thereafter SEGA REPUBLIC

04 4488484

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

Timings: Daily 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: Daily from 1 to 1.30pm and 7 to 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND

04 3243222

Creekside family entertainment village, which includes Splashland waterpark and paintballing is a great day out for the entire family.

Timings: Daily Splashland

10am to 7pm, theme park 10am to 4pm Guide price: AED100 adults, AED90 children

Arts & Crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE

04 3447331/04 3410144

Create your own piece of pottery art. Paint it, glaze it and then enjoy a cup of hot chocolate from it at CaféCeramic.

Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm for ceramics, 9am to midnight for dining Guide price: No base charge, ceramic prices vary from AED35 to AED150

Whether you have mischievous infants or impatient teenagers, Dubai offers something for all the family... Desert safari Sandboarding, 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. Waterparks No matter what your age, the UAE’s waterparks will leave you squealing with delight. Our favourites are Aquaventure at Atlantis, The Palm, 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. Ski Dubai Escape the heat and head to Ski Dubai, the longest indoor ski slope in the world. This popular attraction offers skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, tubing and even zorbing. There’s also an area to build snowmen.

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JAM JAR

04 3417303

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

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

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

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.

Birdwatching NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 3380201

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge SNOW PENGUINS AT SKI DUBAI Visitors have a rare opportunity to interact with these remarkable birds in a oneof-a-kind encounter

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED180 for adults; AED150 children

04 4485200

OUTSIDE DUBAI

SPLASHLAND

04 3241222

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED95 adults; AED85 children

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

WILD WADI

04 3484444

A central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with fun-packed rides, make this waterpark a hit with adults and children of all ages.

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3369773

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED205 adults; AED165 children under 1.1 metres, children under two go free

Timings: Shows Mon to

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

Golf

THE LOST CHAMBERS

04 4260000

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

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010111

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

adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

This championship course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II.

CHILDREN’S CITY

Waterparks

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED875 for 18 holes

An interactive science and cultural centre.

AQUA PLAY

Edutainment 04 3340808

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 8pm, Fri 3 to 9pm 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, AED30 for one 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.

Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE

04 4260000

Ride the rapis 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: AED200 for adults,AED165 for children under 1.2 metres DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

Perferct for families, an hour’s drive from Dubai, this is a large fun-filled park with a number of entertaining rides.

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm. Fridays are for families only, no all male groups Guide price: AED135 adults; AED85 children ICELAND WATER PARK

800 WOWRAK (969725)

This sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert includes an Arctic wave pool and mighty waterfalls.

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

(7,303 yards, par-72)

Struggling to find a tee time or looking for an alternative challenge? The UAE has other excellent courses to feed your need. The Abu Dhabi Golf Club (02 5588990) is managed by Troon Golf and located just ten minutes from the airport. This superb, 27-hole championship course has excellent facilities and a distinctive clubhouse shaped like a falcon. The course itself is pleasantly tough with many water hazards to negotiate. Also in the capital is the newly opened Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (02 5578000), designed by Gary Player and the Gulf’s only ocean course. Heading north, Tower Links (07 2278555) in Ras Al Khaimah is a tricky 18-hole course that meanders through a mangrove swamp and has the Hajar Mountains as a backdrop. The back nine holes are also floodlit, meaning you can make the most of your journey.

ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

04 3663000

(6,531 yards, par-72) 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/ 04 3801234 (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 AED595 and Fri to Sat AED695 for 18 holes EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

1,239 yards, par-27)

8. The Dubai Fountain 9. Kidzania 10. Ice skating 11. Ernie Els 12.The Address Montgomerie, Dubai

The club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament.

Green fees: Majlis Course

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB MAR12.indd 121

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expe r ience/THE GUIDE

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED160 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 Jumeirah Golf Estates

04 3240000

For an exciting rock face experience, head to the only state-of-the-art textured indoor climbing wall in the UAE.

Timings: 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED40

for one hour THE WALL

04 3065061

At more than 15-metreshigh, this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.

Fire Course:

Timings: Sat to Fri 2 to 10pm

(6,473 yards, par-72) (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 courses 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)

WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

Earth Course:

04 3759999

13. The Wall 14. Dubai Rugby Sevens 15. Wakeboarding 16. Deep sea fishing

Climbing

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

Green fees: Daily AED795 for 18 holes

and Sun to Wed 3 to 11pm Guide price: AED60 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor

Diving

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:7am to 6pm Guide price: Sun to Thu

AED30 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 at the same time.

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED70 for 30

minutes with unlimited shots

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trip with up to six people costs from AED700

no boundaries

050 2514988

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

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

SUMMERTIME MARINE

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

Guide price: Two-day PADI

Catch your own lunch on an unforgettable deep-sea fishing trip.

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 04 4068825

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

04 2054646

HATTA FORT HOTEL

Timings: Call for details Guide price: An hour-long

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

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

Archery

Those who love the great blue sea will be taken on a fully equipped charter vessel for an exciting day of fishing.

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

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

04 3993333

04 2573084

ART MARINE

Sports

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing on board the Sneak Away.

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 8836000

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.

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3464194

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1,400 for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee

SEVENS HEAVEN An event that doesn’t feature too many well-known faces, but does pack in three days of pulsating action, socialising and excitement is The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens. This tournament takes place in December at The Sevens Stadium, which is home to the world's largest temporary arena. Capable of hosting 50,000 spectators, the sports ground is located on the outskirts of Dubai and is quickly becoming the new home of rugby in the Middle East. As the opening tournament of the IRB Sevens, many of rugby’s powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand, England and Australia, fly in to compete for the Emirates International Trophy. In 2011, the England team proved popular winners of the main event, beating France by 29 points to 12 in the final.

23/02/2012 11:26

Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.

Get Hooke d*

POPPING â&#x20AC;˘ JIGGING â&#x20AC;˘ BIG GAME FISHING

www.noboundariesoman.com

Adventure fishing lodges : Southern Oman e: ed@noboundariesoman.com w: noboundariesoman.com t: +971 50 2514988

www.facebook.com/NoBoundariesOman

*We promote catch & release and encourage conservation of the Oman coastline

expe r ience/THE GUIDE

Horseracing

04 8327171

Season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com

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

Horseriding

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

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

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

riding from AED200

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

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED400

AL NASR LEISURELAND

FORMULA ONE

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 3371234

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

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED20 for two

Timings: See website

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

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

DUBAI ICE RINK

YAS Racing School

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

Timings: Lessons from 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

Enjoy the natural desert surrounds 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)

EQUINE EMPIRE The Dubai World Cup takes sport in the emirate to a whole new level each March. Oozing glitz and glamour, the event is the richest horse race on the planet with a prize purse of AED37 million (US$10 million). Along with the Dubai World Cup, there are five further nailbiting Thoroughbred Group races and the full action totals more than AED95 million (US$26 million) in prize-money. The 2009 World Cup was the last to be held at Nad Al Sheba racecourse as the sport moved in January 2010 to Meydan, a new state-of-the-art development spanning seven million square metres and featuring a 60,000-capacity, world-class grandstand.

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

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

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.

17. Ski Dubai 18. Horse racing 19. Polo 20. Karting

Timings: See website

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

GALLERIA ICE RINK

04 2096000

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

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

Timings: Sun and Tue

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

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

Karting

Polo

DUBAI AUTODROME

04 3678744

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

050 5592131

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

30 minutes

Mini Golf 04 8523221

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LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB MAR12.indd 124

04 2573084

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

Guide price: AED6,400

for four hours

Shooting JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

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 SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

06 5487777/050 2032288 One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.

Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED170 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED130 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

Skiing 800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Watersports

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

mini golf and fun course. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

02 5629050

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

04 3402408

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for

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.

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

DESERT RANGERS

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

04 3989146

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

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

SKI DUBAI

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

Timings: Daily midday to 9pm Guide price: AED100 for

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

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

04 3941669

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

04 3618111

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110

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

23/02/2012 11:26

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

Hotel outlets & promotions

Al Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

Make your way to Choices every Friday for Indian night and indulge in the traditional Indian buffet for only AED179 per person Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Arabic Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

04 3034222 Desert

Exclusive desert retreat. The restaurant and bars cater to guests only Al Diwaan – Arabic and Mediterranean

Al Manzil Hotel

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai This Downtown property offers a choice of dining options with all outlets linked to a central Arabian courtyard where shisha (hubbly bubbly) is served in the evening. Conservatory offers all-day dining Conservatory – International Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Brunch lovers should try Double Decker's legendary Friday brunch. From 12 to 4pm AED169 buys a tasty buffet and unlimited selected drinks Al Mawal – Arabic Allegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Latino House Restaurant & Bar – South American 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 Tai. Prices start at AED80 a dish. Alternatively, head to one of Dubai's most romantic restaurants, Pierchic 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

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Amwaj Rotana

Burj Al Arab

Dubai Marina

Jumeirah

04 4282000

Brandish your chopsticks at the all-you-can-eat dinner at Benihana, from AED199. The promotion runs every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday from 6 to 11.30pm Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian

Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club

04 3663000 Dubai

An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. The club is particularly popular amongst the emirate's expatriates Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

Armani Hotel Dubai

04 8883888

Downtown Dubai Have an all-Italian experience at Armani/Peck. Every Friday diners can enjoy Friday Vita, an Italian-inspired brunch. Prices start at AED240 per person Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/MediterraNeo – Mediterranean Armani/Peck – Italian Armani/Privé – Lounge/nightclub Armani/Ristorante – Italian fine dining

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

04 4260000

The Palm Jumeirah This landmark property, which is home to Nobu Matsuhisa's signature restaurant, is a genuine destination resort with a range of five-star outlets 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

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

04 8096100 Desert

This charming desert retreat offers good food, most notably at Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant. Visitors should also try the delicious pizza at renowned Italian restaurant Pizzeria Le Dune and the signature cocktails at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq – Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Pizzeria Le Dune – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic tea bar

04 3017777

Head to Skyview Bar for superb afternoon tea and spectacular views over Dubai. Prices start at AED425 per person, inclusive of 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

1 2

Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community

04 8852222

Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill and a cosy Italia Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina – Italian Pine Grill – International The Bar – Casual bar

Crowne Plaza Dubai

04 3311111

Sheikh Zayed Road Ladies visiting Trader Vic's on Monday and Tuesday nights can look forward to a fun night as they receive a 50 percent discount on selected cocktails Al Dana – International Al Fresco – Italian Al Tannour – Arabic Harvester’s Pub – English Oscar’s Vine Society – Wine bar Sakura – Japanese Trader Vic's – Polynesian Wagamama – Far Eastern Western Steakhouse – Steakhouse Zinc – Nightclub

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

04 2625555 Deira

Bring your family for a fun day out at Spice Island. Every Friday from 12 to 4pm enjoy a delicious unlimited buffet and entertainment for kids. Prices start at AED159 per person (excluding alcohol), AED209 with house beverages and AED279 with premium tipples. AED69 for children aged between 10 and 12 Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

1. Vôi – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray 2. Al Murooj Rotana 3. Hilton Dubai Jumeirah 4. Table9 by Nick and Scott – Hilton Creek Dubai 5. Sakura – Crowne Plaza Dubai 6. Burj Al Arab 7. Grosvenor House Dubai

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

04 7012222

Dubai Festival City Flamenco your way into the weekend at Zaytoun's Latin Live night. With hot and cold tapas on the menu, as well as barbecue and live churros stations, you can enjoy all the sizzling flavours of South America before hitting the dance floor for some serious salsa action. Prices start at AED185 per person Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

23/02/2012 11:43

T A ST E/THE GUIDE

the legendary friday brunch

Hatta Fort Hotel

taste of dubai This exciting food festival unites the city's most celebrated chefs, prestigious restaurants, premium beverage brands and famed food exhibitors for a gourmet extravaganza of epic proportions. Last year over 17,000 visitors attended Taste of Dubai and this month the numbers are set to rise further. Taking place at Dubai Media City, from March 15 to 17, The Amphitheatre will be transformed into the most sensational alfresco venue in the city, playing host to a varity of exhibitors. The line-up for 2012 is impressive with renowned restaurants, such as Rhodes Twenty10 and Indego by Vineet, set to be involved. Tickets are priced at AED60 per day for advance bookings and AED75 if you buy on the door. Children under 12 are admitted for free. For more information about this event visit www.tasteofdubaifestival.com

04 8099333 Hatta

Enjoy movies under the stars with your loved ones at Hatta Fort Hotel every Thursday and Friday. Sip on choice tipples, relax and float in the outdoor temperaturecontrolled pool, while watching your favourite films Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Hilton Dubai Creek

04 2271111 Deira

Head to Issimo Bar & Lounge for pints of draught beer for AED20 or check out Table9 by Nick and Scott and enjoy a wide selection of delicious dishes Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Table9 by Nick and Scott – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

Multi-faceted dining and entertainment complex located in the heart of Jumeira. Hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Lebanese Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian Flooka – Mediterranean Loco – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Malecon – Cuban Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

04 3194000

Dubai Marina Enjoy stunning views at The Observatory’s happy hour, which runs from 6 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday, and 6 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday, or head to Az.u.r for a tasty selection of Mediterranean dishes. Guests can also enjoy delicious Mediterranean food at Az.u.r Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

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

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

Peppercrab is the only Singaporean-inspired restaurant in the city 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

Every Monday enjoy Italian Night at Dante. Prices start at AED169 per person. Doors open at 7pm Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian

Grosvenor House, Dubai

04 3998888

Dubai Marina Every Friday from 1 to 4pm Sloane's holds the Bellissimo Italian Feast Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British Sidhartha Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa

04 3995000

Dubai Marina This popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Fish Bazaar – Seafood Thai Restaurant Luciano’s – Italian Summer Place Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Chinese Salamar – Garden lounge The Grand Grill – Steakhouse The White Lounge – Lounge The Underground Pub – English

Catch the latest sports tournament at Studio One and enjoy bottled beer for AED25 Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

Elsewhere around the world brunch is known as a meal between breakfast and lunch. In Dubai it is a whole different affair.

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

Usually taking place between midday and 3pm, Friday brunches are popular with expatriates and tourists alike. Prices range from AED100 to AED600 per person and take place in the city's hotels.

Sheikh Zayed Road

The menus are generally served with your choice of alcoholic beverages.

04 3234333

For indulgent Mexican cuisine, visit The Gem Garden every Tuesday night for all-you-caneat Mexican. Doors open at 7pm and the dinner is priced at AED120 per person Al Sarab – Lebanese Gharana – Indian Mojito – Cocktails Sushi Folie – Japanese The Gem Garden – International The Q – Sports bar The Royal Budha – Thai

hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai This inner-city hotel is located on Sheikh Zayed Road next to Mall of the Emirates. In addition to Sanabel, an international eatery, it is also home to Vantage rooftop bar Sanabel – International Vantage – Cocktail bar

Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel

04 4440000

Ibn Battuta Mall Like to croon? Then head to Al Bahou for the JazzSumptuous brunch every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm. Jazz singers will keep you entertained, while you tuck into a choice of dishes from five international restaurants. Prices start at AED295 with soft drinks, AED395 with selected beverages or AED495 with free-flowing Laurent Perrier bubbles. Alternatively, head to Shanghai Chic for a taste of the Orient or Moroc for a late-night cocktail Chor Bazaar – Indian Diablo – Nightclub Mistral – Mediterranean Moroc – Lounge bar and terrace Shanghai Chic – Chinese Sicilia – Sicilian

hyatt regency dubai & galleria

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

Deira

Dubai Festival City

04 2091234

Head to The Kitchen every Thursday from 12.30 to 3pm for fragrant Indian cuisine. For AED135 per person enjoy an extensive buffet and soft drinks Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Focaccia – Italian Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Kitchen – International

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

04 3324444 Zabeel

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

04 7011111

Enjoy the Culinary Lunch at Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire. Every Friday from 12 to 2pm a four-course menu, which includes a variety of signature dishes, is served. Prices start at AED250, plus an extra AED140 for wine. For those who truly like to indulge head to Terra Firma Steakhouse and try 'The Tomahawk Challenge'. If, within 60 minutes, you can devour a 2kg Tomahawk rib-eye steak, together with 300g of chunky chips and 300g of bèarnaise sauce, you dine for free. If not, the price is AED690 per person Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steak house

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Jebel Ali

DIFC

04 8145555

For a plentiful spread of German, Austrian and Swiss dishes, visit La Fontana for Alpenfest every Tuesday evening from 7 to 11pm. For AED190 (excluding drinks) you can enjoy a warm and welcoming buffet and a second person dines for free

04 3300000

Enjoy an à la carte Friday brunch at Al Nafoorah from 12 to 4pm. Savour the finest Lebanese cuisine served with characteristic flair. Prices start at AED150 per person

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Al Nafoorah – Arabic ET Sushi – Japanese Hakkasan – Chinese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s – European

Jumeirah

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Shooters – American Signatures – French White Orchid – Far Eastern

04 3480000

For alfresco fun, you can't beat 360˚. Set at the end of its very own pier, the heli-padshaped outdoor space boasts panoramic views of Dubai’s picturesque coastline and vivid sunsets over the Arabian Ocean. For indoor dining, enjoy a five-course Arabic menu at Al Khayal daily from 7pm to midnight. Prices start at AED340 per person. Alternatively, visit Beachcombers for traditional Far Eastern fare, La Parrilla for authentic Argentinean food or La Veranda for south Italian delights 360° – Terrace bar Al Khayal – Lebanese Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Marina – Seafood Palm Court – Lobby lounge Uptown – Bar

04 4530000

The Palm Jumeirah Go Continental at the French Brasserie brunch at Imperium. Every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm you can enjoy French favourites and delicacies. Prices start at AED275 per person Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese

Jumeira Rotana Hotel

04 3455888 Satwa

From 6 to 8pm daily enjoy selected beverages for as little as AED22 at Brauhaus' happy hour Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

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23/02/2012 17:04

Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com

Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.

March 2012 | issue 91

T H E

l u x u r y

V I S I T O r

M A G A Z I N E

JaNuaRY aNuaRY 2012 | issue 89

T H E

dubai edition

l u x u R y

F I V E - S T A R

l u x u r y

M A G A ZMaYI 2011 N |Eissue 81

dubai edition du

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

M A G A Z I N E

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

V I S I T O r

M A G A Z I N E

F I V E - S T A r

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

V I S I T O r

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A r

T H E

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

V I S I T O R

MaY 2011 | issue 81

T H E

deceMber 2011 | issue 88

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F I V E - S T A r

dubai duba b i editio ba edition

JaNuaRY 2012 | issue 89

FEbRuaRY 2012 | issuE 90

T H E

deceMber er 2011 | issue 88

dubai edition

With compliments of

Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone

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DXB MAIN COVER MAY11.indd 1

21/04/2011 16:10

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

04 2624444 Deira

Enjoy cheese fondue and raclette for AED99 every Tuesday night at Hofbräuhaus Bamboo Lagoon – Far Eastern Champions – American Cucina – Italian Hofbräuhaus – German JW's Steakhouse – American The Market Place – International

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

04 3993333

Dubai Marina Visit Waves and enjoy the Yum Cha Chinese tea Friday brunch with a lion dance, acrobats and tasty dishes such as miso soup and dim sum. The promotion runs from 1 to 4pm and costs AED299 per person

Barasti – Beach bar Ciro’s Pomodoro – Italian The Dhow – Seafood

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

04 3995555

Dubai Marina This sprawling five-star resort is home to an extensive selection of bars and restaurants. Ossigeno is well known for its southern Italian menu, while Maya, which is run by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, serves up a selection of authentic Mexican dishes. If you're looking for Arabic cuisine, book a table at Al Khaima

8. Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai 9&11. The Noble House – Raffles Dubai 10. Minato – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek 12. Ossigeno – Le Royal Méridien 13. The Address Downtown Dubai

Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Brasserie – International Fusion – Far Eastern Maya – Mexican Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar

Media One Hotel

04 4271000

Dubai Media City For AED120 enjoy a two-hour unlimited food and beverage package in The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge. This offer runs from 2pm until late, Saturday to Thursday Café M – Coffee shop The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Go Japanese on Monday nights at Channels. An unlimited buffet of Japanese specialities including tempura and sushi is on offer. Prices start at AED145 per person (excluding alcohol)

Metropolitan Hotel Dubai

Novotel World Trade Centre

Sheikh Zayed Road

Trade Centre

04 2051035

The Red Lion features a beer garden with regular barbecues

Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers

Al Saffa – International Don Corleone – Italian Rattlesnake – American bar Shahjahan – Indian The Red Lion – English pub

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

Millennium plaza Hotel dubai

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is a strategically located business hotel in the heart of the city La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim The Wharf serves big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes or fries 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

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

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

04 4440111 Deira

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this fivestar property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes Jigsaw – International Spirits Bar – Bar Wok-In Bar – Asian-themed bar

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 4498888

Jumeirah Beach Residence

The Dublin Arms delivers a selection of authentic Irish dishes and beverages in a relaxed setting

Tuck into a quintessentially English Sunday roast at The Talk. Freshly carved joints, live grill stations and classic Brit desserts such as apple crumble and rhubarb and custard are all part of the fun. Running from 6.30 to 11pm, prices start at AED165 per person. For a taste of Mexico drop by on Thursday nights and sample the finest Mexican cuisine, from sizzling seafood, to spicy grills and wholesome regional dishes, washed down with Corona Mexican beer

Al Riqa Restaurant – International Dublin Arms – Irish

The Talk – International West Beach Bistro – Sports bar

Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Metropolitan Hotel Deira

04 2959171 Deira

04 3320000

Oasis Beach Tower

04 3994444

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

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

One of Dubai's most elegant properties with sprawling lawns and sophisticated outlets Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eau Zone – 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 Afternoon Thé Gourmand afternoon tea. Prices start at AED220 per person 101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

Park Hyatt Dubai

04 6021234 Garhoud

Partial to a green curry? Visit The Thai Kitchen on Wednesday nights. For just AED220 per person, diners can feast on an extensive list of dishes Cafe Arabesque – Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

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

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Qamardeen Hotel

04 4286888

Downtown Dubai Buffet-style dining by day turns into Italian-inspired dining by night at Esca

true romance

Esca Restaurant – Italian

Deira

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 Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

04 3669111

Dubai Media City Tamanya Terrace is the place to head on Saturday nights as ladies can enjoy five cocktails, blended by an award-winning mixologist, for AED125 per person. Doors open at 6pm Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports Bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail Bar

radisson royal hotel dubai

04 3080000

Sheikh Zayed Road This modern 51-storey glass tower, located near the Dubai World Trade Centre, offers excellent Japanese cuisine at Icho Al Muhallab – Arabic seafood Celsius – All-day dining Icho – Japanese Indothai – 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 Red Lounge – Chinese Lounge The Noble House – Chinese

The world’s tallest hotel features creative dishes from around the world at Petals

04 3520900 Bur Dubai

Tuck into authentic Japanese cuisine at Sumibiya or try traditional English food at The Pub. Steak aficionados can enjoy Palm Grill, while seafood enthusiasts have Fish Market to look forward to. Whatever your preference, with 11 dining spots you'll be spoilt for choice at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

04 4502000

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

Royal Ascot Hotel

04 2227171

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

04 3230111

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

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

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

At Dae Jang Kum, expect meticulously prepared rice and kimchi (spicy vegetable pickle) Chill – Rooftop bar Dae Jang Kum – Korean Planet Bollywood – Indian Wellington’s – Lounge bar

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road

Pier Chic Located at the far end of a pier, this stylish eatery is an idyllic hideaway in the middle of the sea. The attentive staff create a warm and friendly ambience. Location: Al Qasr Contact: 04 3666730 Al Mahara Probably the only restaurant in the world that necessitates a 'submarine ride', Al Mahara is one of the most luxurious restaurants in the city. Location: Burj Al Arab Contact: 04 3016076 Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire For a romantic experience you'll never forget you might decide to draw on the skills of culinary mastermind Pierre Gagnaire. Location: InterContinental Dubai Festival City Contact: 04 7011111 Thiptara With the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and the tranquil waters of the Burj Lake, Thiptara, which means ‘the magic in the water’ in Thai, certainly lives up to its name. Location: The Palace – The Old Town Contact: 04 4287888 Eauzone Hidden away in the secluded beauty of the One & Only Royal Mirage, Eauzone is a picturesque spot. With elegant evening lighting and a handful of flickering candles, it’s a top choice for a romantic soirée. Location: One & Only Royal Mirage Contact: 04 3999999

See in St. Patrick's Day on March 17 at Dunes Café with the St. Patrick's Day Dinner. A traditional Irish feast will be on offer, including beef and oyster pie, Guinness-braised beef and Limerick stew. Green cocktails and Guinness will be flowing throughout the evening. Doors open at 7pm and prices start at AED210 per person (excluding beverages) Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

04 2281111 Deira

Head to Creekside for the seafood buffet. A rich assortment of local fishes and seafood in all kinds of varieties is available for AED175 per person (excluding alcohol) Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

04 3995533

Dubai Marina Visit The Peacock for reliable Chinese cuisine and impeccable service. Meanwhile, Ciao Ristorante serves traditional Italian dishes and Palm Garden dishes up international cuisine Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International The Peacock Chinese Restaurant – Chinese

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

04 4484848

Dubai Marina Mums can look forward to a Mother's Day brunch on March 16 at AOC. The gourmet Friday brunch includes a sushi corner, a live rotisserie, a large variety of seafood and a crepe station. Prices start at AED195 per person (excluding alcohol) 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. This established hotel is located in one of Dubai’s oldest districts and does not serve alcohol Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic

The Address Downtown Dubai

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai A Friday brunch like no other, dine on a cosmopolitan blend of Asian, Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean cuisines at Fazaris. Doors open from 12.30 to 4pm and prices start at AED290 per person (excluding beverages) Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Chic, yet intimate Ember Grill and Lounge is a stylish stop for an evening meal. Every Tusday from 7 to 11pm diners can enjoy a five-course tasting menu for AED295 per person including free-flowing beverages Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

The Address Dubai Marina

04 4238888

staisycover

d rience expe p o h s &taste

Dubai Marina Cheese connoisseurs should head to Mazina on Thursday nights for an unlimited cheese buffet. Doors open at 6.30 and prices start at AED130 per person Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

wining and dining

Although the UAE is a Muslim country, alcohol is permitted in several emirates including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Wine, Champagne and spirits are available from most five-star hotels and as a tourist you are free to enjoy the lively bar scene that Dubai has become famous for. However, be warned, there is zero tolerance to drink driving. One sip is one sip too many. Likewise being drunk in public is a criminal offence. Both crimes are treated seriously and are punishable with a fine and in more extreme cases imprisonment.

Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.

CONCIERGE WEB AD-STRIP 2010.indd 1 LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB MAR12.indd 131

21/12/2011 09:51 23/02/2012 17:07

T A ST E/THE GUIDE

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills For an English experience try Nineteen for afternoon tea. Delicious teas are served with cakes. From Sunday to Thursday, 1 to 5.30pm and prices start at AED60 per person Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International

The Fairmont Dubai

04 3325555

Sheikh Zayed Road Indulge in unlimited sushi and sake every Wednesday at Spectrum on One from 7 to 9pm. Prices start at AED150 per person Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese

ARABIC TASTE Hummus: 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: A delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine. Fattoush: This Levantine salad is made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread and mixed with lettuce, cucumber, onion and other vegetables. Sambusek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach. Ouzi: This popular baked lamb and spiced rice dish is a favourite during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month. Umm Ali: Similar to bread and butter pudding served in the west, this favourite Arabic dessert contains milk, pastry and nuts, and is a staple dish in many buffets.

The Meydan

Towers Rotana Dubai

Centimetro

Meydan

Sheikh Zayed Road

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 3438000

04 3813333

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

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience Bas Pasta – Italian Farriers – International Prime – Steakhouse Shiba – Asian

The monarch dubai

04 5018888

Downtown Dubai Visit Diademas Cigar Lounge for cheese and two glasses of wine for AED90, from 6 to 8pm daily Amika – Lounge/nightclub Arcadia – Afternoon tea Diademas Cigar Lounge – Cigar lounge Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar Ruth's Chris Steak House – Steakhouse

Downtown Dubai

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB MAR12.indd 132

04 4230903

Souk Al Bahar Inspired by the London-based alma mater, steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day at this British grill The Mango Tree

04 4267313

Souk Al Bahar

Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine served in a dark, moody setting, while overlooking The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa

Ushna

04 3686506

Dubai Marina

Alegra

04 3073482

Al Murooj Rotana

For delicious afternoon tea, book a tabel at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, enjoy a selection of tasty pastries, sumptuous sandwiches and tantalising teas. Prices start at AED125 per person and for AED235 guests can enjoy a glass of Champagne

This stylish bar located in the heart of the city welcomes a well-heeled crowd seven nights a week AQUARA

04 3627934

Amaseena – Arabic Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian

DIFC

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Rivington Grill

Cit y dining

04 3994000

04 3722222

04 3666730

Sheikh Zayed Road

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

Pisces

villa rotana

Moka Café – All-day dining

Indulge in ladies' night every Tuesday at FAI. Ladies receive three complimentary beverages. Afterwards head to Thiptara for traditional Thai cuisine and views of the stunning Dubai Fountain

Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates

With panoramic views of the Gulf, this fine-dining seafood restaurant is not to be missed

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet

Dubai Marina Yacht Club

13. The Palace – The Old Town 14. Atmosphere Dubai 15. Zuma 16. Aquara 17. The Palace – The Oldtown

Enjoy a spectacular view over Dubai Marina coupled with good food and fine wine

Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar serves British food and beverages carluccio's

04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre

Dubai Marina Head to Blue Orange every Thursday and indulge in fresh lobster and a variety of oysters, sushi and sashimi. Doors open at 6pm and prices start a AED250 per person (excluding alcohol)

04 4477601

The Palm Jumeirah Carnivores, come one, come all! Expect succulent steaks at this contemporary, beachside New York Grill & Bar

Smoking shisha (hubbly bubbly) is very popular in Dubai. The Middle Eastern water pipe, which is thought to have originated around 500 years ago, purifies and cools the smoke from flavoured tobacco heated on top of the pipe by coals. The most popular flavours are apple, mint, strawberry, apricot and grape.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 3994141

West 14th

SMOKE SIGNALS

04 3666197

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Chic décor, excellent cuisine and friendly service make this Indian restaurant a culinary favourite

Burj Khalifa

04 8883828

BarZar

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

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

at.mosphere

Spectacular views await from the 122nd floor of the world's tallest building

Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Australian night. AED240 buys you a three-course menu including a starter, barbecue, desserts and house beverages

Authentic Italian cuisine served in a familyfriendly environment CAVALLI CLUB

04 3329260

The Fairmont Dubai

Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai

132

First-class Cantonese cuisine is served while you enjoy the amazing views over Festival Marina

04 3216111

04 4287888

Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai

Traders Hotel Dubai

The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style and offers casual buffet-style dining with tasty pizza, pasta, Asian specialities and more

The Palace – The Old Town

Chi’Zen

04 2329077, 04 3549288

Deira

Relax at this Italian lounge and enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations

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

04 2659888

04 3666121

A chic lounge that includes a contemporary Italian restaurant, sushi bar and Champagne bar

Although relaxing and sociable, estimates suggest that an hour of shisha smoking equates to inhaling 50 cigarettes. However, if you’re after an authentic experience, smoking shisha is a must. Just remember not to inhale too deeply and to share your shisha among friends. This is a social tradition and to be enjoyed in groups or couples.

23/02/2012 17:17

DUBAI TOURIST MAP

N W ATLANTIS THE PALM

HOTELS

38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78

FOR BOOKINGS 04 2854949 www.ballooning.ae

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

35 51

JUMEIRAH BEACH 74 39 22 8

65 5 64

ROAD TO

HIGHWAY

RESORT & SPA

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

INTERCHANGE 6

METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK

AL WASL ROAD

8 9

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

10 20 42

EMIRATES HILLS

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

37 17 11

SALIK

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

A1 B1

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

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

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

IRA TES

TO AIRPORT

AL KHAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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

DUBAI SPORTS CITY

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

8 • BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

N W

HI GH W AY

8 THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI JUMEIRAHAUTODROME ARABIAN RANCHES BEACH GOLF CLUB

SKYDIVE DUBAI

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

TIMES SQUARE CENTRE

E AT

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

HIGHWAY

10 GREEN COMMUNITY

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

DUBAILA

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

Creek Al Jadaf Dubai Health Care City Oud Metha Khalid Bin Al Waleed Saeedia Al Ghubaiba Al Ras Palm Deira Baniyas Square Union Square Salah Al Din Abu Baker Al Siddique Abu Hail Al Qayadah Stadium Al Nahda Dubai Airport Free Zone Al Qusias 1 Etisalat

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

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

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

Al Ghurair City E1 Arabian Center F3 Beach Centre D1 Burjuman E1 B1/C1/D1/E1 Choithram Supermarket locations Deira City Centre E2 Dragonmart D3 Dubai Festival City E2 Dubai Marina Mall A1 Dubai Outlet Mall D3 Gold and Diamond Park B2 Ibn Battuta Mall A1 Jumeira Centre D1 Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers D1 Jumeira Plaza D1 Lamcy Plaza E2 Mall of the Emirates B2 Mazaya Centre D1 Mercato D1 Mirdif City Centre E3 Oasis Centre C1 Palm Strip D1 Spinneys Supermarket locations C1/D1/E1 The Dubai Mall D2 Times Square Centre C2 Town Centre D1 The Village D1 Wafi E2

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

12 11

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

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

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

70 A1 B2 C2 E1 D1 E2 E1 A1 D1 B1 A1 E2 E1 D2 D2 E1 B1 D1 E2 D1 D1 E1 E1 A1

UMM SUQEIM

69 41

IBN BATTUTA

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

A1 D1 B2 A1

AL SUFOUH ROAD

21 DUBAI MARINA MALL

5 38 78 50

DUBAI MARINA

31 JEBEL ALI GOLF

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

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

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL BURJ AL ARAB MADINAT JUMEIRAH

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SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5