March 2013 | issue 103
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 2013 | issue 103
T H E
l u x u r y
F I V E - S T A R
V I S I T O R
M A G A Z I N E
Licensed by international Media Production Zone
cartier.com
From UAE: 800 Cartier (800-2278437) Outside UAE: +971 4 236 8345
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MARCH 2013 / Issue 103 / Dubai Edition
Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s
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st u dio Se n ior A rt Dir ec tor An dr e a T e m pesta Sen ior Design er Ton y Sa nt i ago Photogr a pher A dh a m Sn e e h Produc t ion Coor dinator Nav e e d A ziz
a dv ert isi ng GROU P a dv ert ising dir ec tor dav id wa de GROU P A dv ert ising M a nager Pr a sh a n d Me non A dv ert ising M a nager ST EPHE N N I XON Hot el r el at ionship m a nager Mi a C ache ro SENIOR SALES M ANAGER DA R RYL WILLEY Sa l es M a nager s PAOLO A NGHILE R I Sa nge eta Buta n i m a dih a zou bir i Speci a l proj ec ts K ir at Sa bh a rwa l
CIRCULATION & M AR K ETING c a rol mil a n Chr ist i n e H a m a da
In t er nat iona l sa l es Blei SpA, Italy Via Carlo Cazzaniga, 19 – 20132 Milano Tel +39 02 722 511 / Email: info@bleispa.it S’REGIE, France 46, Rue Sainte Anne 75002 Paris Tel +33 1 56 88 20 80 / Email: STOMA@sregie.com Concierge magazine is published monthly and copies a r e distr i but e d f r e e of c h a rge i n f i v e -sta r a n d se l ec t four-sta r hot e ls. A lt hough e v e ry e f fort is m a de to e nsur e t h e acc ur ac y of i n for m at ion conta i n e d i n Concie rge m aga zi n e , t h e pu bl ish e r c a nn o t b e h e l d r e s p o n s i b l e f o r a n y e rro r s o r inaccur acies. Articles contained within Concierge m aga z i n e a r e un de r cop y r igh t to t h e pu bl ish e r a nd ca nnot be r eproduced or tr a nsmitted in a n y form, without first obtaining written permission.
WELCOME TO concierge A winning spirit, strength and style are attributes shared by both the Dubai World Cup and its host city. As this month marks the arrival of the world’s richest day in horse racing, once again Dubai is placed on the international stage. The much-anticipated event showcases a stunning display of equestrian talent from the skilled jockeys mastering powerful horses to the graceful thoroughbreds themselves, thundering down the racecourse. Aside from the sporting prowess on display, Dubai’s fashion elite will put on another remarkable show. Ticket holders turn out in their finest designer pieces and showstopping hats to stand out in the luxury lounges at Meydan Grandstand. A wonderful day of entertainment away from the thrills of the racetrack is also to be had with an array of first-class restaurants and bars. A comprehensive guide to the Dubai World Cup on page 74 provides all the essential information needed to make the most of this unique event. Shine in the style stakes with our guide to the latest race-day fashions on page 26 and once you have found the ideal outfit, turn to page 32 where Concierge delves into a milliner’s world to explore the latest trends and techniques in highend headwear for top-to-toe race-day style. Further adding to its credentials as a destination for eclectic international events, Dubai plays host to a trio of essential festivals this month. Art Dubai is the region’s largest showcase of international art, offering a rare opportunity to see exhibitions from around the world in one venue. Our guide to the fair on page 44 unveils some of the beautiful pieces and talented artists taking part. For book lovers, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is an absolute treat bringing together the finest international writing talent. Concierge interviews the festival’s founder and director Isobel Abulhoul on page 82 who reveals her favourite authors from the impressive roster of talent in attendance. Gourmet food is also celebrated this month at Taste of Dubai, a festival honouring the finest restaurants Dubai has to offer. Enjoy our feature covering all the festival’s highlights on page 90. To get a little closer to the kitchen, our TASTE section offers a guide to Dubai’s best chefs’ tables on page 97 – a dining concept which sees guests enjoy gourmet meals at restaurants with tables placed strategically close to the cooking action. Enjoy all that Dubai has to offer with Concierge.
Nicholas Publishing International FZ LLC P.O. Box 500573, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 4243600 Fax: 04 4327505 Email: concierge@npimedia.com Web: conciergedubai.com 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 Location: Green Stables, Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse
Much like any other top-flight athlete, a thoroughbred race horse’s days are filled with discipline, routine and expert care. Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh joined the horses and their dedicated trainers for an early morning training session as they prepared for the Dubai World Cup. Turn to page 54 for a unique portrait of these extraordinary animals
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contents MARCH 2013 / Issue 103
14/ESSENTIALS
The emirate’s top attractions, news and events
23/SNAPSHOT Dubai’s gleaming skyline
25/SHOP 26/CREAM OF THE CROP
Stay ahead in the style stakes with a selection of race-day fashions
32/CROWNING GLORY
Feathers, diamonds and tiaras – enter the world of high-end millinery
38/MADE IN THE UAE
Concierge steps inside the best boutiques born and bred in the emirate
43/DISCOVER 44/IN THE FRAME Meeting modern masters at Art Dubai
52/TAKING THE REINS
Spa sessions and swimming for thoroughbred horses
54/GROOMED FOR GREATNESS
A beautiful portrait of horses preparing for race day at Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse
64/STROKE OF GENIUS
71/TOURIST TRAIL Enjoy an al fresco outing at Dubai Marina
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Kismet by Milka
Learn all about the ancient art of calligraphy
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contents MARCH 2013 / Issue 103
73/EXPERIENCE 74/RIDING HIGH Prepare for the thrills of the world’s richest race day, the Dubai World Cup
82/THE WRITE LINES
Delve into a wealth of writing talent at Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
89/TASTE 90/ALL IN GOOD TASTE Concierge savours the best of the festival at Taste of Dubai
96/PRIDE OF PLACE
Jack fruit and palm seed, The Palace Downtown Dubai
Take a seat at the chef’s table for a meal to remember
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Q 103/THE GUIDE
Comprehensive listings to plan the perfect stay
124/MY DUBAI Lucy d’Arbo, Dubai communications executive, shares her city highlights
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Brought to you in association with
essentials MARCH
DISCOVER Design Days Dubai
A beautiful showcase of art and design, this unique fair presents limited edition pieces in a striking setting. Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, the fair displays exclusive items from a collection of inspirational designers. French luxury jewellers Van Cleef & Arpels leads the way with its collection of high jewellery. Each unique piece is themed around the idea of jewelleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transformative nature. The Hirondelles necklace (shown) has a detachable clip that can also be worn as a hairpiece. When: March 18 to 21, 4 to 10pm. How much: AED50. Contact: designdaysdubai.ae
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EVENTS IN BRIEF E M I R AT E S C L A S S I C C A R F E S T I VA L The Middle East’s premier showcase of luxury automobiles, this three-day event is a major draw for car enthusiasts and is a fun family event. With a stunning selection of vintage and classic cars on show the festival makes for a fantastic weekend pursuit. When: Mar 7 to 9. How much: Admission free. Contact: emiratesclassiccarfestival.com
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING T E C H N I C O L O U R D R E A M C O AT
EXPERIENCE Dubai World Cup
Enjoy the fast-paced action at one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year. With a prize purse of US$10 million it’s the world’s richest race day. A must for horse racing enthusiasts, the event also attracts Dubai’s fashion elite and is a fun day out for the whole family. When: March 30. Where: The Meydan Grandstand. How much: AED25 per person for general admission, packages start from AED350 per person. Contact: 04 3272110.
Expect colourful costumes and uplifting performances at this hit musical from London’s West End. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic runs from March 29 to April 13 at Madinat Theatre, Madinat Jumeirah. Contact: josephdubai.com
W olfgang M iddle E ast T our The famous platinum record selling Filipino rock band is in Dubai as part of a Middle East tour. When: March 7. Where: Emirates Golf Club. How much: From AED85. Contact: 056 1435918.
DUBAI POLO GOLD CUP
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 practice it is elsewhere around the world, brunch in Dubai is a whole new experience. With buffet tables laden with gourmet food and an unending supply of free-f lowing drinks, you won’t be left wanting. Our favourite spots include Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah and Spectrum on One at Fairmont Dubai.
Enjoy the premier polo competition at the stunning Dubai Polo Club grounds. Some of the world’s best teams will battle it out for the prestigious Gold Cup trophy. Spectators can look forward to an enjoyable afternoon in the sunshine. When: Until March 15. How much: AED150. Contact: 050 1190732.
DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS See a thrilling roster of international tennis talent on the courts at Dubai Tennis Stadium. Stars in action include Serena Williams and Roger Federer. Enjoy a host of entertainment away from the courts including competitions and autograph signings with players. When: Until March 2. How much: Tickets from AED50. Contact: 04 4172415.
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Ask the concierge M e l c h o r L o m b oy, b e l l c a p ta i n at t h e R a d i s s o n R oya l H o t e l , D u b a i , g i v e s h i s e x p e r t r e c o mm e n d at i o n s f o r a s tay i n t h e c i t y. M e l c H o r wa s h o n o u r e d at the Concierge of the Year Awa r d s i n J a n u a ry ta k i n g home the coveted title of C o n c i e r g e o f t h e Y e a r 2012 .
There are a lot of amazing sights here in Dubai, but nothing beats a view from the skies. I would suggest a helicopter tour to see some of the wonderful vistas including the magnificent outline of the manmade islands Palm Jumeirah and The World. It’s also a wonderful way to see the differences between old and new Dubai from the skyscrapers of Sheikh Zayed Road down to Dubai Creek. Shopping is, of course, central to any trip to Dubai and I send visitors to The Dubai Mall. With more than 1,200 shops, it has everything from high-end luxury brands to boutique stores. It’s also home to The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo which is teaming with almost every species of marine life. For a memorable night out, the vibrant atmosphere in Movida at Radisson Royal Hotel, Dubai makes for a great evening. Meanwhile, the newly opened VIP Room at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai offers exclusive entertainment for those looking for a luxurious night out. For a romantic evening meal, I recommend making a reservation at Pier Chic. Located at Madinat Jumeirah Hotel – Al Qasr, it is one of the most romantic seafood restaurants in town. With serene views of the Arabian Gulf and Burj Al Arab, the restaurant’s balmy breeze and wonderful views will definitely light up a special dinner. A trip to Dubai Creek also makes any stay in Dubai special. The creek itself is a bustling attraction with dhows (traditional boats) plying the waterways as fishermen sell their wares. Visitors can even sail along the creek for a special view on Dubai.
EXPERIENCE
du World Music Festival 2013 One of the world’s most talented performers, Andrea Bocelli is the star attraction at the du World Music Festival. Held from March 22 to April 6, the celebration of live music spans incredible venues in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The stellar line-up also includes Indian singing icon Sonu Nigam. Italian tenor Bocelli is not to be missed at the du Arena in Abu Dhabi on March 22. Contact: du.ae/en/dulive How much: From AED295.
SHOP
Montblanc The Régulateur Nautique Chronograph effortlessly combines innovative design with a classic style. An ideal timepiece for the avid yachtsman, it is inspired by nautical journeys and the history of navigation. This unique chronograph is from the exclusive Villeret 1858 Collection and has a special ‘two time zones’ feature. The wearer can set the watch to simultaneously show the time at both his current location and a chosen destination. Crafted in the Montblanc atelier in Le Locle, Switzerland, the Régulateur Nautique Chronograph is limited to 16 pieces worldwide and features an innovative, in-house movement. The case is made from sapphire crystal which offers a clear view of the handfinished internal mechanism. The Régulateur Nautique comes in both red and white gold. Contact: 04 4340300.
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VERSACE.COM
THE DUBAI MALL | VERSACE JEWELLERY BOUTIQUE |+97144341570
EXPERIENCE The 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 patiro’ (Time to Say Goodbye). Spellbinding views of the fountain can also be enjoyed from the surrounding restaurants and cafes. Where: Downtown Dubai When: Daily at 1 and 1.30pm then every 30 minutes from 6 to 11pm Contact: thedubaimall.com.
TASTE
Cocktail Hour After a busy day taking in all of Dubai’s attractions cocktail hour is the perfect time to relax. It marks a special time of day when the city’s chic set come together to relax with an early-evening drink as the sun goes down. An array of luxury venues offer an assortment of delicious drinks and stunning vistas to enjoy. Visit Latin inspired Calabar at The Address Downtown Dubai and watch the sun set behind Burj Khalifa from the idyllic terrace. Choose from an extensive collection of premium beverages, innovative cocktails and mocktails or try a refreshing home-made icedtea. When: Sunday to Thursday, 6 to 8pm, Friday 4 to 8pm Contact: 04 4367700.
Shop
Fashion Avenue Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall is a shopper’s paradise with a host of high-end designers and exclusive boutiques among the hundreds of retail outlets to choose from. No visit to Dubai is complete without the ultimate in retail therapy offered at Fashion Avenue. Top designers all under one roof include Gucci, Lanvin, Aigner and Chanel (pictured).
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Taste
LOOKING AHEAD
Arabic Coffee
G I T E X S H O P P E R 2 013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPRING EDITION
For a truly authentic local flavour try some Arabic coffee. Steeped in tradition, the Bedouin originally cooked coffee in copper pots on beds of coal in the sand. Nowadays the brewing method retains much of the early techniques. Ground beans are boiled rather than filtered lending Arabic coffee its distinctive taste. Saffron and cardamom are also often added making for a unique blend to savour.
April 3 to 6 For the latest in high tech gadgets and technological innovations head to GITEX Shopper 2013.The enormous consumer electronics platform is an incredible showcase of world class brands and consumer electronics from smartphones to tablets and much more. Where: Dubai World Trade Centre How much: From AED30 Contact: gitexshopperdubai
M idd l e E a st F i l m a nd C omic C on 2 013 April 5 to 6 Join comic book and film enthusiasts for the largest popular culture festival in the Middle East. Indulge in all things movie and comic book related at this fun event for all the family. Expect famous faces, art exhibits and music from across the globe. Where: Dubai International Marine Club â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mina Seyahi How much: From AED75 Contact: mefcc.com
DISCOVER SIKKA 2013
Featuring a fascinating array of visual arts from UAE-based artists, this third edition of the cultural event draws on work from multiple genres, including film, music and the performing arts. Highlights include outdoor film screenings, live music and entertainment, cultural walks and artist-led talks. When: March 14 to 24. Where: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. How much: Admission free. Contact: 04 3842000.
BRUNO MARS April 12 See the pop superstar in his first ever performance in the Middle East. A Grammy award winner, Bruno Mars has sold more than 45 million singles worldwide. Expect hits such as anthem Just The Way You Are and Billionaire. Where: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre How much: From AED295 Contact: brunomars.ae
G U L F F I L M F E S T I VAL April 10 to 16 Enjoy the best of contemporary cinema from across the region at the fifth edition of the Gulf Film Festival. Films will be screened from professional filmmakers and student contributors. There are also a host of workshops, talks and seminars to attend. Where: Intercontinental Dubai Festival City, Crowne Plaza Dubai and Grand Cinemas How much: Films screenings free Contact: gulffilmfest.com
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DUBAI: Radisson Blue Tel: +971 4 222 9687 Dubai Mall Tel: +971 4 339 9330 Mall of the Emirates Tel: + 971 4 341 4241
ALAIN Tel: +971 3 764 8968 ABU DHABI Tel: + 971 2 674 5000 www.alfardanuae.com
ATLANTIS +971 4 4214771
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AL QASR +971 4 4243892
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BURJ AL ARAB +971 4 3483131
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DUBAI MALL +971 4 4341227
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JUMEIRAH BEACH +971 4 3488102
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MINA A’SALAM +971 4 3686262
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ZABEEL SARAY +971 4 4357558
PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH
S NA P S HOT
LIGHT FANTASTIC Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breathtaking skyline is nothing short of captivating and the city is now famed the world over for its awe-inspiring architecture and iconic structures. Mirroring the emirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own remarkable evolution, innovative towers stretch along the coastline in a testament to the ambitious vision that shaped the city. Select a prime vantage point such as Palm Jumeirah and fix your gaze on the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, or see the shimmering towers of JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, the tallest hotel in the world. Watch as the light reflects from exclusive seven-star hotel Burj Al Arab. The sweeping shape of Jumeirah Beach Hotel further enhances the stunning scene.
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B O R N
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shop Gucci
Gucci’s Cruise 2013 collection epitomises the brand’s aspirational travel heritage. The combination of delicate fabrics with heavier garments transcends the seasons. Aligned with Guccio Gucci’s original vision of luxury travel attire, the collection makes an elegant style statement. Gucci is available at The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
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CREAM OF THE CROP Join the stylish spectator set at the Dubai World Cup with luxurious equestrianinspired pieces
Q WORDS BY RACHEL INGRAM
There is hardly a more chic and sophisticated event in the emirate’s calendar than the Dubai World Cup. Renowned as much for its enviable display of designer fashions as the sporting prowess on show, Dubai’s fashionable elite grace the gathering in immaculate outfits. Standing out from the crowd is made all the more important by the Jaguar Style Stakes, a competition to crown the best-dressed race-goer. Make your mark at the Meydan Grandstand’s luxury lounges with our selection of classic equestrian-themed apparel.
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E Q UE S T RI A N S T Y L E / s hop
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SHO P/ EQUES TRIA N ST Y L E
Sporting chic
Crown jewels
Make sure you are ahead in the style stakes with fashions inspired by the sport itself. International fashion houses are referencing horse racing themes this season. As part of its Cruise 2013 collection, Gucci has created a 15-piece ready-to-wear assortment of racing-inspired apparel and accessories. The luxury range features elegant jackets, trousers, shirts, boots and gloves. The collection is practical and stylish both on and off the race track. Luxury French design hourse Hermès has also created a range of equestrian-inspired accessories including patterned scarves and classic riding boots to be worn with a variety of race-day outfits.
Shine on race day with an assortment of unique jewelled pieces dedicated to all things equestrian. Lead the way in the style stakes at the Dubai World Cup with Boucheron’s dazzling Pégase ring collection. The pieces are expertly crafted in the elegant shape of horse’s heads. Each silver silhouette is finished with hundreds of shimmering diamonds and sapphires. Elsewhere, Gucci carries on the equestrian style note with its Horsebit collection, which comprises an understated yet striking range of beautiful gold bracelets, necklaces and rings that no race-going lady should be without.
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1 Minna at Mansion Model, Meydan Grandstand (previous page) 2 Boucheron 3 Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Squadra Lady Duetto 4 Clare Milford Haven 5,6 & 7 Gucci Horsebit 8 Hermès
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Perfect timing There is no better accessory for race day than a timepiece that was created for and worn by competing jockeys. High-end luxury watch manufacturer JaegerLeCoultre has created a wristwatch especially for equestrian life. The Reverso model is not only aesthetically pleasing, but utilises the latest horology mechanisms. Its key feature is a reversible case that can be closed to protect the glass from damage during races. British aristocrat and accomplished polo player Clare Milford Haven is frequently photographed wearing Jaeger-LeCoultre timepieces both on and off the race track to stay ahead in the racing style stakes.
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www.smalto.com Al Qasr
Atlantis
Zabeel Saray
+971 4 4486092
+971 4 4503622
+971 4 4357556
SHO P/ EQUES TRIA N ST Y L E
Fascinating headwear A lady’s race day wardrobe is not complete without a statement hat or fascinator. Murmure by Spirit stocks a huge selection of headwear options to propel wearers to the top of every best-dressed list. Ranging from elegant 9
9 Murmure by Spirit 10 & 11 Oscar de la Renta 12 Alexander McQueen 13 Dior
monochrome feathered hats to oversized floral fascinators in a spectrum of colours, there’s a piece to complement every ensemble. Make your headpiece the centre of your look and match accessories with the hat’s detailing to uphold your chosen theme. 10
GUCCI
Available at Gucci, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398953 , Mall of the Emirates, 04 3410669. HERMÈS
Available at
www.hermes.com/Hermès, The Dubai Mall, 04 3308385. BOUCHERON PÉGASE
Available at Boucheron, Mall of the Emirates, 04 3410030.
Dress to impress Expect feminine silhouettes and an abundance of colour at this year’s edition of the Dubai World Cup. Opt for an elegant, figure-hugging dress from designers such as Emilio Pucci and Alexander McQueen. Add high-heeled court shoes and statement accessories to complete the outfit. Alternatively, select a beautifully patterned maxi dress from Alice by Temperley or Matthew Williamson to create maximum impact when paired with sandals.
GUCCI HORSEBIT
Available at Gucci, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398953,
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Mall of the Emirates, 04 3410669 and Boomingdale’s, The Dubai Mall, 04 3505333.
Make your headpiece the centre of your look and match accessories with the hat’s detailing to uphold your theme
JAEGER-LECOULTRE REVERSO
Available at JaegerLeCoultre, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398769.
Available at Bloomingdale’s, The Dubai Mall, 04 3505333.
Going for gold The colour for winners, gold is the hue for this year’s race day accessories. Exude confidence with a classic Oscar de la Renta clutch or for a more contemporary look, show your artistic side with a white and gold clutch from
OSCAR DE LA RENTA
Bulgari. Alexander McQueen also offers a selection of stylish bags which come complete with the signature diamond-studded clasp – perfect when teamed with nude court shoes for a chic finish.
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Available at Saks Fifth Avenue, BurJuman, 04 3515551.
BULGARI CLUTCH
Available at Bulgari, Emirates Towers, 04 3303233,
Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 0662 , The Dubai Mall, 04 3308834 . ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
Available at Alexander McQueen, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398760.
ALICE BY TEMPERLEY
Available at Saks Fifth Avenue, BurJuman, 04 3515551.
EMILIO PUCCI
Available at Emilio Pucci, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398525 ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
Available at Alexander McQueen, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398760.
MATTHEW WILLIAMSON 12
Available at Matthew Williamson, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398069.
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MI L L I N E RY / s hop
Crowning glory Arguably the emirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest social event with a focus on style, the Dubai World Cup is the ultimate showcase for statement hats. Concierge speaks to the milliners providing the iconic designs for ticket holders from around the world
Q A hat is the accessory that heralds an important and glamorous event. From the pill box and the 1920s cloche to more daring designs that break the mould, hats have grown from a traditional marker of social status to an expression of personal style. Nowhere is that style more on show than at the Dubai World Cup where the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion elite step out in sensational designs tailormade by talented milliners. Ranging from the chic and understated to the outrageous, last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner of the most creative hat competition was made from human hair shaped like a horse. Sweeping feathers, Swarovski crystals, ribbons and bright bows are just some of the materials used to design hats of all shapes and sizes that are as much a part of the day as the races themselves. Hats first made an appearance at the races at Royal Ascot in England. A yardstick for fashion and race-day etiquette, the hat practice at Ascot soon caught on at horse races around the world. Each year the Dubai World Cup sees an impressive parade of hat designs from chic, elegant classics to flamboyant and bold new pieces that blur the lines between art and apparel. To stand out among the fashionable crowd, ladies preparing their raceday fashions find engaging the services of a milliner a must.
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sho p/ MILLIN ERY
Australian hat designer Liza Georgia creates bespoke designs for clients attending the Dubai World Cup which she starts working on months in advance. “I start not long after the Christmas break,” she says. “My clients usually give me free rein to create, although I am sometimes given a colour from their outfit to give me a sense of the overall look. I source the materials from all over the globe when I travel. “I enjoy making avant-garde pieces, but I try to make hats that are worn rather than just admired in a catwalk show. I want people who wear my pieces to feel comfortable and confident.” Trained by some of the most established names in millinery such as Australian greats Judy Nolan and Doris Chivers, Liza has clients based all over the world. Her expertise in designing beautiful hats for clients attending some of Australia’s most high-profile
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horse races led naturally on to designing for the Dubai World Cup. A finalist in the prestigious Millinery Awards at the Melbourne Cup Racing Carnival, Liza’s designs have also been celebrated in Dubai where her hats have been shortlisted in the best-dressed finals in the Jaguar Style Stakes fashion competition held at the Dubai World Cup. Liza’s clients range from women who have never worn hats before to ladies who often attend special functions where hats are de rigueur. For this year’s Dubai World Cup, Liza predicts a flurry of colour. “I am expecting a lot of vibrant hues this year with some stand-out pieces.” Talented Dubai-based designer Nazgul Nejmi was inspired to become a milliner after a trip to the Dubai World Cup. “Prior to university, I worked with luxury brands Gucci and Emporio Armani. I always wanted to design, but I just didn’t know I would start with millinery. I attended a horse race in 2008 and had to wear a hat, but I couldn’t find any to my taste or anything unique. I designed my own hat and everyone loved it. That’s when I knew millinery was my thing. Since then I have been designing for the Dubai World Cup which is a wonderful platform to showcase designs.” Nazgul, who has Turkish Cypriot and Pakistani roots, was born in Dubai and takes inspiration from both local and international sources. “I work from home, sometimes from the workshop, but actually from everywhere. Whether in the workshop, home, or out, my mind is always working. It’s like with any piece of art. It starts with a thought, then I sketch it out, choose the materials and work on it. “I use materials from all over the world, but mostly from Dubai as we have a great textile
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1 Nazgul Nejmi at work on her designs (previous page) 2 & 3 Nazgul Nejmi 4 The design process
market here. I travel a lot and love buying materials from each country to use in my collection. There are specific materials that I order from outside, such as feathers and straw which I source usually from Thailand and the UK.” The craftsmanship that goes into millinery can take years to perfect. The design of each hat is a gradual process with most designers spending months sourcing materials from around the world, considering the right shapes and colours to suit each client. Once designs are sketched and patterns cut to the correct shape, hand-sewing skills are required to stitch linings, material and trims. Another technique used is blocking, where wooden blocks are used to shape each hat. Nazgul begins work on her Dubai World Cup orders the year prior to the event. “I usually receive orders from around December onwards from clients in Dubai. People have always come to me for extreme, original and daring hats. They are all looking for originality. I start by sourcing materials and sketching design ideas. Once the materials are finalised, the hat is shaped, then sewn and then trimmed by hand. It is important that a milliner has a good sense of colour and texture in order to create a hat that not only looks good, but complements the wearer. I have been asked for some exciting designs this year, but they obviously have to be kept under wraps until the big day,” says Nazgul. Nazgul’s imaginative and chic designs include everything from tiaras and crowns to turbans ranging in price from hundreds to thousands of dirhams. For the Dubai World
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Cup this year, she is also predicting lots of colour and bigger, bolder pieces. Nazgul’s own hat heroes include Philip Treacy and Stephen Jones and the ambitious designer hopes to one day achieve similar success in this region. “People are wearing hats and headpieces more than ever,” she says. “They are now seeing hats as stylish accessories that add to individual identity. I would love for my designs to reach everyone.” There is still time to order a bespoke design from Nazgul by either visiting her home or workshop by appointment through her website. A range of local milliners in Dubai are also able to take last-minute orders for hat designs with many offering stunning readyto-wear pieces. Boutiques such as s*uce at The Dubai Mall and Boutique 1 at Mall of the Emirates also carry a varied selection of designer hats. A beautiful range of haute couture hats is also on show and available to purchase at this year’s edition of the BurJuman International Millinery Exhibition held at BurJuman Mall. Hats from both Liza and Nazgul will be on display as they are among the designers featured and it’s the perfect place to select your Dubai World Cup hat with over 500 to choose from.
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People are wearing hats and headpieces more than ever. They are now seeing hats as stylish accessories that add to individual identity
Where: International Millinery Exhibition, BurJuman Mall, Dubai When: March 21 to 30, 10am to 10pm
Milliners of the moment: Stephen Jones
How much: Free / Contact: 04 3520222
The British millinery legend made his mark on the London fashion scene during the late 1970s. He is a graduate of renowned fashion college Central St Martins. In1980, he opened his first millinery salon in London’s Covent Garden where he designed for icons including Princess Diana. His edgy yet elegant designs have transcended the decades and current clients include Kylie Minogue, Beyoncé and The Rolling Stones.
5 Liza Georgia design 6 & 7 Nazgul Nejmi
Dubai World Cup awa r d -w i n n i n g h at s Best Hat 2012: Karen
Hamilton’s petite magenta piece won with stunning floral detailing on the side. Best Hat 2011: French milliner Celine Robert’s chic black and gold fascinator. Best Hat 2010: Belgian designer Valerie Corona’s elegant feathered pink hat stole the show.
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Best Hat 2009: Australian milliner Karen Hamilton’s hat won with a three-tiered design trimmed with bows, ostrich spines and pearls.
Philip Treacy Irish milliner Philip Treacy is one of the most famous names in hat design thanks to his haute couture creations and ready-to-wear ranges that appeal to a wide clientele all over the world. He set up his own workshop in 1990 after graduating from the Royal College of Art where he created his showstopping pieces. Treacy has designed for the world’s best fashion houses such as Alexander McQueen, Chanel and Ralph Lauren. His creations have been worn by a host of high-profile figures and are a frequent favourite with royalty, 36 of his hats were worn at the wedding of Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge.
Robyn Coles With a degree in politics and economics, Coles has followed an alternative route into hat design. She first worked as an assistant buyer for Armani after graduating from university where her passion for accessories and hats developed. She retrained as a milliner at the London College of Fashion and is fast becoming the name to watch in hat design thanks to her chic and elegant styling. Coles opened her boutique in Cardiff last year and is set to show her 2013 collection , adorned with floral motifs, during Premiere Classe, Paris’ most important fashion accessories’ trade show in March.
Hat wearing tips: Match the season: Wool and felt hats are traditionally worn from September to February, with straw and sinamay (woven from the stalks of the abaca tree) worn from March to August. Consider your face shape: Wide-brimmed hats are better for square faces, oval faces suit most hat shapes, while those with long faces should avoid tall, narrow hats. If you wear glasses, try wearing your hat with the brim turned up, as it’s more flattering.
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MADE in the UAE Brimming with rare fashionable finds and up-and-coming designer labels, the emergence of home-grown boutiques in the city provides a treasure trove of style potential
Q W O R D S B Y C AV E L L M A L L E T T
A bustling fashion hub, Dubai has earned its credentials as a capital of style. With malls of the sleekest nature boasting unparalleled size and variety, the city plays host to many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest designer names. Yet as any style-savvy shopper knows, some of the most prized possessions can often be found in one-off boutiques. Born out of this collective desire to showcase local talent and an alternative spectrum of style, Dubai boutique owners have provided fashion in an environment that inspires an all-encompassing lifestyle. Where vintage furnishings meet contemporary fashion, this new wave of concept stores offers an exclusive insight into the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vibrancy and urban sense of style.
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Kismet by Milka (previous page) Kismet by Milka Boom & Mellow Benedetta Bruzziches Baruni
For the many that would agree with Sima Barazi Haroun’s motto, ‘It’s all about the accessories’, Boom & Mellow is an essential stop-over. Visitors will find themselves enthralled by the boutique’s ‘walk-in jewellery box’ design. Strewn across glass tops and vintage dressing tables is a pick of accessories ranging from hats, belts and bags to jewellery and decorated shawls. Sima opened the boutique in 2005 and describes its style as ‘a touch of Parisian flair and a dash of London chic’. She recounts one of her many sourcing expeditions: “I was in a café in Paris and two young Italians were sitting next to me. We started chatting and the next day I visited their stand, fell in love with the collection called Leitmotiv and started carrying it at Boom & Mellow.” If you’re on the lookout for something eye-catching this season, Sima also recommends Benedetta Bruzziches, a talented young Italian handbag designer. Catering for all occasions, this cosy boutique is the perfect place to tinker away the afternoon. Brands available: Alexis Bittar, Shourouk, Sarah’s Bag, Kismet by Milka, Thursday Friday / Where: Boom & Mellow, Mall of the Emirates, 04 3413993
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Visitors will find themselves enthralled by the boutique’s ‘walk-in jewellery box’ design. Strewn across glass tops and vintage dressing tables is a pick of accessories Rivaage Rivaage is the third successful venture for former financial consultant-turnedstyle-icon Rohini Gehanu. In less than a decade, not only has Gehanu’s growing empire come to include popular Dubai boutiques JJ Valaya and Samsaara, but she is also credited with introducing some of the most celebrated Indian designers to the region, including Vikram Phadnis, Shane Peacock and Sabyasachi. “The fashion industry for me has always been my dream, but to get to the top you need to be fast and furious. It’s very competitive,” says Rohini. Rivaage is full of international collections, bespoke accessories and exclusive designers like Jay Ahr, Judith Leiber and Vera Wang Lavender. Certainly one to visit, the elaborate design of Rivaage’s flagship store located within Sunset Mall in the upmarket area of Jumeirah 3, builds around the theme of an enchanted castle within a forest.
Rohini goes on to offer some advice for those looking to purchase this spring’s key buys. “Pastel tones are the way to go this season. Expect beautiful things from Tucker, one of my favourite US brands and also the Vera Wang Lavender collection.” Brands available: Alice & Trixie, Azzura, Edmundo Castillo, Miau, Red Cherry, Whit Where: Rivaage at Sunset Mall, The Dubai Mall, 04 3807177
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s*uce A pioneer among Dubai boutiques, s*uce has become a much-loved symbol of the city’s growing style stakes. The boutique is renowned for its edgy philosophy, refusing to be bound by style rules when it comes to choosing collections. Instead it opts, as co-founder Zayan Ghandour says, to follow its heart. By mixing trendy of-the-moment brands and the very latest additions to the market, s*uce has created a unique world that bridges the gap between fashion and fun. As an industry insider that has witnessed the city’s development co-founder Zayan adds: “I love that there is more support for local talent in the entire region from department stores as well as boutiques. It’s wonderful to see the industry evolving with new designers coming up. It keeps creativity flowing and everyone innovating.” Building on s*uce’s impressive list of brands, Zayan recently launched her own eponymous label. From this, she promises plenty of neon coral fabrics and woven tweeds. Branching out into designer lifestyle goods s*uce now also offers a diverse range of décor, furniture and adorable pieces for the home.
s*uce
Brands available: Bil Arabi, MarMar, Preen, Thakoon, 6 MSGM 7 s*uce 8 & 9 Maria Francesca Pepe 10 Bullets & Butterflies
Bullets & Butterflies Opened by Emirati sisters Hind and Alia Bin Kherbash in 2010, Bullets & Butterflies brings a unique element of glamorous fashion to the Middle East. Describing the significance behind the name, Alia explains: “Bullets represents our male clientele as being sleek in their aesthetics and strong in their personality, while our female clientele, the Butterlies, are social, well-travelled and enjoy expressing their personalities.” To successfully encapsulate such a strong style aesthetic, the boutique buyers spend vast amounts of time scouring for the perfect pieces to provide a well-stocked selection of effortlessly edgy designs that offer multi-season longevity. Always on the look out for the next big trend, Alia points out what she’s excited about this season. “We love Maria Francesca Pepe’s gold cuffs that come encrusted in pearls and precious stones. We also enjoy stocking Markus Lupfer’s collection for men and see it
Camilla and Marc, Mary Katrantzou, MSGM Where: s*uce, The Dubai Mall and Village Mall, 04 3463393
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fly out of the store every season.” Good news for both new and devoted fans of the boutique, Bullets & Butterflies will be taking its unique finds to a new level as it launches an online store later this year which will reach even more customers in almost 50 countries. Brands available: Angel Jackson, CC Skye, Funktional, J Lynch, Olivia Rubin, Stolen Girlfriends Club / Where: Bullets & Butterflies, Mercato Mall, 04 3422243
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Here time doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pass. It flies.
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Discover Abstract art
Beautiful hues of red and sky blue stream in abstract form across silkscreen prints on paper. Talented Iranian artist Nima Behnoud presents his first solo art exhibition in the UAE this month. It focuses on motifs of Persian culture with abstract calligraphy in vivid shades. Where: Total Arts at The Courtyard, Al Qouz, Dubai. When: March 13 to April 30. Contact: 04 3475050.
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In The Frame Art Dubai unveils a stellar selection of talent this month as artists from around the world stage a stunning show
With plentiful sources of creative inspiration, Dubai is awash with galleries, art cafés, street artists and cultural collectives. A diverse history adds to that mix, drawing from rich raw materials such as the city’s roots as a pearl-diving village or the colours, aromas and character of traditional souk life. The pinnacle of the emirate’s cultural calendar is Art Dubai, an annual fair that affirms the city’s newfound status as the region’s artistic hub. In 2012, Art Dubai drew a crowd of over 22,000 visitors viewing 75 galleries. The eclectic event is held as part of Art Week, an umbrella initiative that includes: Sikka Art Fair, a showcase of emerging Emirati and local talent held at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood; Design Days Dubai, a unique design fair; and a range of exhibitions and shows taking place throughout March. In the six years since its inception, Art Dubai has grown to become the leading art fair in the Middle East attracting 76 international galleries from an eclectic mix of locations, including Paris, New York, Jakarta and Berlin. The brainchild of Dubai-based art dealer John Martin and businessman Ben Floyd, Art Dubai has provided a focal point for the region’s thriving contemporary art scene and offers an incredible cultural experience for any visitor to enjoy. Held in the stunning Madinat Jumeirah from March 20 to 23, there is a wealth of works to take in over the three days. Aside from art to view, there is a series of lectures, workshops, forums and performances. Regular features such as Ladies’ Day will return once more, lending an opportunity for women from across the region to attend and enjoy all that the fair has to offer. Opening night is a glitzy affair when Dubai society gathers to celebrate the as key local and international art-scene players come together.
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The Terrace Talks programme sees renowned artists, curators and collectors discuss the latest art practices and developments. Participants in this year’s Terrace Talks include Stuart Comer, curator of film at London’s Tate Modern and Dr Michael Danoff, lecturer and art adviser at New York University. For those looking for a more exclusive experience of the fair, there’s a VIP programme available which features specially arranged talks with major collectors and art world professionals. The Global Art Forum, hosted over six days, brings together artists, musicians and curators for live showcase projects commissioned for Art Dubai. Sculpture on the Beach is a unique display of large-scale works on the Mina A’Salam beach, minutes from the Madinat Jumeirah. The fair’s highlight is the Abraaj Group Art Prize. The special award for artists from the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia is unique in that it is given to artists’ proposals rather than completed works of art. Each of the five selected artists then create pieces based on his or her idea that, when completed, are exhibited during Art Dubai.
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The region has such a rich history of art, architecture and design going back millennia. This history and the contemporary cities within which the artists work provide us with great inspiration
1 Galeries Lafayette Dome in Paris by Candida Hofer (previous page) 2 Art Dubai 2012 exhibit entrance 3 Abraaj Group Art Prize 2012 winning pieces
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With such a vast array of exhibitions, performances and artists to manage, Art Dubai fair director Antonia Carver leads a talented team which ensures the smooth running of the fair. Antonia explains: “We’re going into the seventh year of Art Dubai, so the team has built up a way of working and getting through the stress of presenting 75 galleries and work by over 500 artists, plus 60 speakers across our talks’ programme, not to mention the children’s art workshops and so much more. We are a team of around 15 people, based in Dubai year-round and we triple in size between January and March. We also take on around 70 interns each year, giving young people from the UAE the chance to get involved and shadow the world’s leading gallerists and artists and to host visiting collectors and museum directors.” Antonia, who is also a member of the Arab film programming committee for the Dubai International Film Festival, became Art Dubai’s fair director in August 2010. Based in the UAE for the past decade, she has also written extensively on Middle Eastern art and film. Having witnessed first-hand the development of Dubai’s artistic community, Antonia believes Art Dubai will continue to grow. She explains: “The phenomenal
growth of the local art scene is something that the fair both reflects and actively encourages. In 2007, the first year of Art Dubai, we had around 40 galleries and 8,000 visitors. In 2012, the fair hosted 75 galleries and we welcomed over 22,500 visitors. “Over the past decade, the art scene in the UAE has exploded. In Dubai, we’ve gone from a handful of galleries to over 40 and many of these have now become fixtures on the international scene. The region has such a rich history of art, architecture and design going back millennia. This history and the contemporary cities within which the artists work provide us with great inspiration.” With so much incredible talent featuring at this year’s event, Antonia’s highlights are hard to whittle down. However, she does recommend visitors make time to see the work from the five Abraaj Group Art Prize winners. Antonia says: “Vartan Avakian, Iman Issa, Huma Mulji, Hrair Sarkissian and Rayyane Tabet have been working with guest curator Murtaza Vali to create incredible new works for one of the world’s most significant art prizes. All five artists are absolutely ready for this. They are at that tipping point when they move from being established in the region to
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becoming international art stars. Their work is critical, enquiring and witty and the exhibition where the works are revealed at Art Dubai will be a treat.” Another Art Dubai essential is the stunning Cartier curated jewellery show. Antonia says: “Cartier has put on the most spectacular of curated jewellery shows. It’s something that takes a year or more of planning, is exquisitely put together and features artworks from the Cartier Foundation.” With an eye on the future of this unique event, Antonia has high hopes for its continuation as a major fixture on the global art events calendar. She says: “We’ve seen audiences grow so rapidly in numbers, but also in terms of knowledge and depth of interest and engagement – audiences who immerse themselves in this most cultural time of year. Each year, we see more cross-pollination as our visitors from abroad meet the local art scene. Our local and regional art stars meet those international critics, curators and collectors who are going to take their careers to the next level. My hope for this year’s Art Dubai is that the exchange is more prevalent than ever.”
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When: March 20 to 23 / Where: Madinat Jumeirah How much: AED50 / Contact: 04 3842000
4 Vartan Avakian 5 Huma Mulji 6 Jubilation by Ablade Glover
Art Dubai highlights: Candida Hofer A renowned German photographer whose work has been exhibited at major galleries across the globe including the Musée du Louvre in Paris. Höfer’s work originally focused on public buildings with haunting images of large open spaces and empty interiors designed to capture ‘the psychology of social architecture.’ Höfer then turned her lens on zoos, documenting animals in their caged environments before embarking, in 2001, on a project to photograph Auguste Rodin’s casts The Burghers of Calais at the Musee des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle in Calais. Four years later, Höfer documented the galleries of the Musée du Louvre, focusing on the art within and the design of the exhibition spaces in their own right.
Ablade Glover
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Born in Ghana in 1934, Glover’s work is known for its abstract style using oils on canvas. His subjects are often marketplaces and town scenes and are recognisable from his use of vibrant colour. Glover studied art and education at the Central School of Art and Design in London from 1959 to 1962. His works have been exhibited largely in both public and private collections since 1983. His most recent exhibition was a solo show of his works in London in the October Gallery.
Vartan Avakian One of the winners of this year’s Abraaj Group Art Prize, Avakian is a cuttingedge multidisciplinary artist who works with installation, video and photography. He has exhibited throughout the Middle East, Asia, Europe and America and is a member of the Arab Image Foundation and lives and works in Beirut. Avakian’s edgy work aims to use popular culture to examine modern cultural production. With a background in industrial engineering and a university major in communication arts, Avakian uses his work as a video editor and stage designer to feed into creations that are often a hybrid of machines and installations in various media.
Huma Mulji Visual artist Mulji focuses on themes of self-exploration, travel and freedom in sculpture, photography and drawings. Her edgy creations have earned her international acclaim. Living in Lahore, Pakistan, Mulji also teaches at the city’s School of Visual Art and Design at Beaconhouse National University. Recent exhibitions include Project 88 stand at Frieze Art Fair in England and at the Twelve Gates Gallery in Philadelphia. Mulji’s concept for the Abraaj Group Art Prize is one of five winning entries displayed during this edition of Art Dubai.
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THEY ARE COMING. THE DUBAI WORLD CUP, SATURDAY MARCH 30
The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s richest raceday has it all: Be dazzled by the Dubai World Cup opening ceremony, enjoy world class racing with a total purse of $27.25 million and dress to impress at the greatest social spectacle of the year.
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Tickets start at AED 350 Book your tickets at meydan.ae or call +971 4 327 2110 Like us on facebook.com/dubaiworldcup
Proud to partner with:
Taking the reins
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Lush green gardens, spa treatments and a heated al fresco swimming pool are just some of the luxuries enjoyed by horses at Meydan stables, home of the Dubai World Cup
Q A team of horses thunder down the race track as a cloud of dust is kicked up by the passing flurry of hooves. Spectators come in their thousands to observe the majesty of these finely tuned animals as they take centre stage in this thrilling show. Yet behind the scenes, far from the excitement of race day, dedicated specialists draw on their skills and expertise to attend to the needs of each and every horse. Tailormade routines are put in place with elaborate exercise strategies and precise diets carefully considered, while soothing therapies calm and rejuvenate.
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As you would expect from Meydan Grandstand, which is one of the world’s most impressive racetracks, Meydan stables are state of the art. There is, of course, a lot of money at stake in the training of thoroughbreds. The Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest day in horse racing, promises prizes of US$10 million. Yet, it is a deep love of these graceful animals that shines through when you witness first-hand the stable teams at work. One such stable, nestled in a picturesque corner of Meydan’s sprawling grounds, is run by renowned French trainer Erwan Charpy. “These thoroughbreds are exactly like athletes and they are nurtured in the same way with the best physical and psychological care,” he explains. The tree-lined drive leading to Erwin’s stables opens onto a clearing of lush foliage where his aptly named Green Stables is located. Erwin, who has been training horses in Dubai for the past 18 years, has 80 horses to keep in peak condition.
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“Despite millennia of domestication, horses are instinctively fearful of humans and need careful handling. Horses like routine, they like to know what is coming and even the slightest change to a routine can cause upset. Yet the wonderful thing to remember about horses is that they are very social animals, each with their own character. They like to see what is happening around them and they like to interact with each other. That is why the horse stalls allow them to poke their heads out and have a good look around. We even take them to the track in groups as they really don’t like to feel isolated.” Erwan began his career in his native France inspired by his father and grandfather who were both prominent figures in French horse racing. He spent time in England and America before coming to the UAE where he has forged an illustrious record having won the Jebel Ali Stakes three times in five seasons and trained
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These thoroughbreds are exactly like athletes and they are nurtured in the same way with the best physical and psychological care
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A curious horse on the Meydan stable tour Inside the tack room Jockey’s equipment Meeting a horse on the stable tour
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horses Pacino and Golden Arrow who have both won the Listed Jebel Ali Mile. A walk around his stables gives a fascinating insight into the hard work and dedication that goes into training thoroughbreds. Behind each barn door is a surprise in state-of-the-art technology. One swings open to reveal a happy horse standing in a pair of what appear to be giant vibrating Wellington boots. They are actually spa boots filled with ice, water and glycerin to cool the legs. A small motor connected to the boots causes them to vibrate creating bubbles which add to the soothing experience. “The horses love the boots and actually anticipate the treatment, lifting their legs to get into them. It’s a little like when a footballer takes an ice bath to help condition their legs. Horses need just the same standards of care,” Erwin explains. Every day starts at 5.30am when the horses are taken out to the training track in batches of 12 to 15 for daily exercise before heading to the main track to be put through their paces. They are then brought back to the stables where they are washed and walked before returning to their stalls. It’s at this time any special treatments are carried out, should a spa boots session be required or an injury attended to. Some mornings the horses are led out to the heated
equine swimming pool for a few laps around the three-metre-deep water. “Horses swim instinctively. Not all of them enjoy it, but most seem to really have fun. It is, however, a great way to give them another type of exercise,” Erwin says. Once back in their stables, the horses are fed. Staples, such as oats and corn, are on the menu, but the horses also love honey, while fresh cuts of the plant lucerne are brought to them each day from Al Ain in Abu Dhabi. By 9am, all equipment is safely stored back in the tack room and stable life slows, allowing Erwan to attend to maintaining these wonderful facilities. Erwan’s is just one of the many first-class stables preparing horses for races such as this month’s Dubai World Cup. To gain a better understanding of horse racing and these impressive animals, Meydan Grandstand offers informative guided tours of stables similar to Erwan’s within the grounds with breakfast overlooking the racetrack. For a closer look at the daily lives of these graceful animals, turn the page to our beautiful equine photo essay. Where: Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse When: Tue and Wed, from 8am How much: Adults AED250, children AED150 Contact: 04 3813333
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GROOMed FOR Greatness As the sun rises over the stables at Meydan Grandstand the thorougbreds are put through their paces. A world away from enthused crowds and race-day pageantry trainers prepare for the prestigious Dubai World Cup. Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh presents a collection of unique moments with racing's champions
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The heated equine swimming pool, which is three metres deep both soothes and conditions. The horses are gently led down a ramp into the water until they lose their footing and begin to swim
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The horses are walked around a small track at the stables as part of their warm-up
The thoroughbreds step into their ice filled 'spa boots'. The boots (pictured left) cool the legs to treat injury or inflammation
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Horses have 360-degree vision, can reach speeds of up to 60 kilometres per hour and weigh around 1,200 pounds (544 kilograms). A jockey's skill lies in handling the powerful animal in the race to the finish line
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Riding out for a final training session as race day nears
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Part of the maintenance routine is a regular set of new shoes
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Stretching legs on the training track in preparation for the big race
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Stroke of genius Centuries of expertise have been handed down the generations to preserve the ancient art of calligraphy. Concierge explores the roots of this treasured tradition
Q If you’ve ever had the pleasure of watching a calligrapher at work, you will have gained an insight into the serenity of this ancient art form. It is both a peaceful and thoughtful endeavour as the artist contemplates each inky black stroke to create wonderful works of art. The word ‘calligraphy’ originates from the Greek meaning ‘beautiful writing’, elevating the written word to so much more than a functional activity. Calligraphy comes in a variety of forms from west to east incorporating Arabic styles that date as far back as 2000BCE with early examples found in cave paintings. Long before the printing press, calligraphy was used to form early publications, painstakingly created by etching ink onto parchment by quill. Some of the finest calligraphy appears on formal documentation and legal decrees, while the script adorns a wide range of material from early earthenware to building interiors. Nowadays, these unique handwriting styles are works of fine art in their own right. It takes decades of practise to become a calligrapher and for UAE artist Majid Alyousef, it is a lifelong passion. “I started at a very young age, he says. “I remember the first time I used a calligraphy pen and tried to work on the alphabet when I was eight years old. It is an ongoing process like all other arts – you keep learning over the years. I started with the traditional method developed by master calligraphers and worked out my way later on. I did not have a mentor, so I had to come up with my own training and learning solutions, while at the same time focusing on mastering the most difficult classical calligraphy styles.”
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In the Arab world, calligraphy occupies a special space because it developed alongside Islam and was used to document the Qur’an
Majid experiments with more modern styles of calligraphy, but recommends that any learner start out with the classical types. “Most calligraphers, especially beginners, like modern styles that look good, but are not extremely difficult to master. Young artists tend to learn them to make pieces in a short time with a lot of creative flexibility. Classical calligraphy is difficult, but to be really good, in any modern style, you have to start with the classics to understand the basic rules of aesthetics and then develop your own style.” In the Arab world, calligraphy occupies a special space because it developed alongside Islam and was used to document the Qur’an. Arabic Script Calligraphy, more commonly known as Islamic Calligraphy, encompasses all works by Muslim practitioners of the craft from Morocco to China. Beautiful examples of this special script can be seen throughout the UAE, particularly on mosque ceilings, in interior design and in advertising and corporate branding. Traditionally, Islamic Calligraphy is drawn using a carved reed pen and there are several styles within the genre, each with distinct shapes and characteristics. Mastering Islamic Calligraphy clearly means mastering the Arabic alphabet, which is a script of 28 letters distinguished
1 Calligrapher Majid Alyousef at work (previous page) 2 Thuluth style 3 Calligraphy tools
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by a dot or dots placed above or below the letter. There are around 20 different types of Islamic Calligraphy though not all are still in regular use. The three main styles are Kufic, Naskh and Thuluth. Kufic is a geometric style characterised by horizontal, sharp lines. It was originally developed for writing on stone and used in early religious texts because of its formal style, but has now all but disappeared. Naskh is a more cursive calligraphy style that appeared in the 10 th century and replaced geometric variants such as Kufic as it was easier to both read and write. The style is distinct with neat and compact letters which lean slightly to the left. It is the most widespread of scripts in Islamic Calligraphy used in Qur’ans, official documentation and is the most common font in printed Arabic today. The third style is Thuluth where one-third of each letter slopes. Large and elegant, Thuluth was used in medieval times in mosque decorations and is still in use today, often written in conjunction with Naskh and seen most often in deeds and architectural inscriptions.
Distinct from these formal styles, the 17th century brought a more pictorial form of Islamic Calligraphy known as Calligrams. A word, phrase or poem is written in a specific order to create an image that also represents the word’s meaning. Common Calligrams include swords, mosques, ships and praying men. These unique scripts are traditionally seen on the fringes of pure Islamic Calligraphy and as such aren’t exhibited in mosques, but
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can still be seen today in modern corporate logos. Aside from the three main styles, Diwani is also prevalent and is a prized style among the art world. With two variants, this cursive style is sweeping and intertwined. Riq’a Diwani style can be identified by its curved lettering but little decoration compared to the more elaborate Diwani Jali variation. Majid, originally from Saudi Arabia, but moved to Dubai 11 years ago, favours the traditional Thuluth form. He says: “Thuluth is the style I practise most. It is also the most difficult to learn and most prestigious form of calligraphy. It took me several years to master it.” Based at his Dubai workshop, Majid uses traditional tools such as reed and bamboo pens, inks and handmade paper. For more experimental work, he turns to canvas and acrylic. For most calligraphers, the qalam reed pen is favoured over metal-tipped pens due to the flexibility provided by the reeds. The ink of choice is often black and made from soot, dissolved gum and water poured into a small inkwell lined with raw silk fibres. By absorbing the liquid, the fibres allow the pen to lift the ink in smaller amounts, avoiding blotting on the page. For important
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Diwani Jali style Majid Alyousef Kufic style Thuluth style
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Calligraphy events Majid Alyousef is holding a calligraphy workshop during the Emirates Airlines Festival of Literature on March 9 priced at AED150. Contact: emirateslitfest.com The Ara Gallery, Downtown offers Arabic calligraphy classes with its next programme due to start in April. Contact: info@thearagallery.ae , 04 4542784
A stunning exhibition by Omani calligrapher Saleh Al Shukairi, Letters of Gold, is also on show at The Ara Gallery until March 9.
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manuscripts such as the Qur’an, vibrant red and gold colours are used. The calligrapher’s original canvas was papyrus made from fresh-water reeds or parchment derived from animal skin. This changed in the 10th century when paper was introduced in the Middle East that was cheaper to produce. Before beginning work, a calligrapher usually dyes the paper cream or tan which doesn’t fade as fast as white before using a tool to smooth the surface in preparation for the ink. Depending on the size and detail
involved in a piece, it can take anything from a week to several months to complete a specific work with prices also varying. Majid explains: “Prices are hard to estimate as each art piece has its own specifications. The size, material and complication of the piece have to be taken into account. Exclusivity also plays a large role in deciding the final price. It may be a few thousand or tens of thousands of dirhams in some cases.” Learning to read these elegant scripts can take years and is a challenging yet rewarding enterprise. Experts recommend taking the time to try and recognise whole words first and then practise reading shapes and lines – remembering to read from right to left. With a number of workshops in Dubai now offering calligraphy classes, there are plenty of opportunities to learn. Majid, who has had exhibitions in the UAE and abroad, hopes the calligraphy scene in the UAE will grow. He says: “It is promising, there is a lot of investment in the exhibitions and events. With specialised and practising calligraphers leading the way, the future of calligraphy in this country could be very bright.”
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Ripple Effect
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Drop anchor at Dubai Marina for a refreshing stroll, voyage on the waves or simply relax and watch the world go by Lofty skyscrapers line the water’s edge as boats lazily ply the sparkling waters at Dubai Marina where the vibrant café culture and awe-inspiring architecture make this an essential stop on any visitor’s itinerary. The clusters of statuesque towers surrounding this manmade canal city are themselves a sight to behold. Each one boasts its own unique character derived from a combination of ingenious design and boundless vision. The Princess Tower is the world’s tallest residential building, standing at 414 metres with an intricate Art Deco-style domed roof. Its neighbour, Infinity Tower twists at a 90-degree angle and is set to reach 307 metres when construction is completed. As night falls the marina comes alive with bright colours adorning each dynamically designed building creating a futuristic scene.
As night falls the marina comes alive with bright colurs adorning each dynamically designed building as they create a futuristic scene
1 A boat trip at Dubai Marina 2 Dubai Marina skyline
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To build the manmade marina, developers transferred waters from the Arabian Gulf to the inlet to form a new waterfront that was inspired by Canada’s manmade shoreline community Concord Pacific Place in Vancouver. The result is an outdoor oasis within the city where people can come together. Dubai Marina’s relaxing outdoor space offers something cherished in the city during the cooler winter months and an opportunity to take a relaxing stroll along the seven-kilometre landscaped public walkways where runners can also stretch their legs. Lining the marina’s meandering pathways are a plethora of cafés and restaurants representing both international and local flavours. Smoking shisha (flavoured tobacco) is popular here at the many openair eateries where visitors while away the hours taking in the marina vistas. It’s also a wonderful spot for families to enjoy and children are often seen whizzing past on pedalled karts that are available for hire along the marina’s edge. For convenient shopping in a stylish setting, look no further than Dubai Marina Mall which offers an abundant choice with designer brands, including Reiss, Ted Baker and Kurt Geiger. The Mall also has a six-screen cinema, a varied range of delicious dining options and there’s even an outdoor Skate Zone for
children to enjoy. A direct link from the mall to five-star The Address Dubai Marina sees the luxury continue. The exclusive hotel has a range of fine-dining options, including chic international restaurant Mazina. Or try Shades lounge where a stunning open air setting makes for a serene spot to unwind with a delicious cocktail as the sun goes down. More remarkable views are to be had at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites. Perched on the edge of the marina, its 52nd floor gourmet restaurant The Observatory offers breathtaking views out to Palm Jumeirah and across the Gulf. At the opposite end of the marina lies Dubai Marina Yacht Club where high-end dining options are coupled with views of the elegant vessels moored closeby. There are a host of companies here offering opportunities for the sale and charter of luxury yachts to make any marina visit truly special. Visitors can also take a trip on the Dubai Ferry which leaves twice a day from the marina, sailing to Palm Jumeirah. Operated by Dubai’s RTA (Roads and Transport Authority), the journey, priced from AED50, allows passengers to view iconic sights such as Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah from a unique ocean perspective. The trip also offers impressive panoramas with a look back to the marina, ensuring a lasting impression.
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GET IN TOUCH WITH WILDLIFE AND NATURE AT AL AIN ZOO. Get out of Dubai’s or Abu Dhabi’s overcrowded city centers and take your family on an outdoor day trip at Al Ain Zoo. Al Ain is closer than you think and you will enjoy the journey thru the pristine red sand dunes - the adventure is just a good hour away from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. For opening times and special attractions or visit www.alainzoo.ae
experience Show boats
Marvel at some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most magnificent yachts at the Dubai International Boat Show. Now in its 21st year, this luxury leisure showcase is a major draw for boating enthusiasts and a fantastic family day out. Take a look around 19 super-yachts on display. When: March 5 to 9. Where: Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi. How much: Tickets from AED60.
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Riding High Join racing royalty for an exhilarating day out at the richest horse race on the planet, the Dubai World Cup
Q One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Dubai World Cup attracts thousands of visitors from around the globe who come to experience the thrills of this acclaimed competition. The glittering event brings together the cream of international equestrian talent in the ultimate showcase of the sport. Dubai World Cup presents a master class in all aspects of horse racing from the finely tuned thoroughbreds and their expert trainers to the jockeys and hundreds of behind-the-scenes staff whose expertise ensures an incredible event. A major draw for racing enthusiasts, the day is also characterised by its appeal to a varied audience, as families enjoy a fun day out mingling with serious race-goers and Dubai society at the Meydan Grandstand. This year 272 horses will compete in the US$10 million race cheered on by 60,000 fans. The annual meet has a special place in the sport’s international calendar offering a winning combination of the best in racing action, entertainment, five-star hotel luxury, fine dining and VIP experiences. Heading up this year’s field of thoroughbred nominations is defending champion Monterosso from Dubai ruler HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s highly successful Godolphin stables. A total of 23 countries will be represented with 184 entrants from the UAE, 27 from the US, 18 from South Africa, 11 from Japan, seven from the UK, four from Hong Kong and two from Singapore. Martin Talty, international manager at Dubai Racing Club, says: “In 2002, we had 87 horses nominated for the Dubai World Cup at the free nominations stage.”
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“This year, we have had 272. The large increases over the years do serve to demonstrate the status that this flagship race – and indeed all the races on Dubai World Cup day – has attained all over the world.” This year marks the 18 th edition of the Dubai World Cup, which was born in a country steeped in equestrian tradition dating back to early Bedouin times when horses were central to the region’s development. The earliest tamed horses are believed to have existed in Bedouin settlements where they were used in battle and for labour, but the racing of horses formally began in the UAE in 1992. The country has since occupied an enviable place in the sport internationally. In 1996, Sheikh Mohammed inaugurated the Dubai World Cup, a testament to the nation’s love of both breeding and racing horses. Sheikh Mohammed is himself an
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The Dubai World Cup was born in a country steeped in equestrian tradition dating back to early Bedouin times when horses were central to the region’s development 1 Golden Shaheen race (previous page) 2 World Cup Carnival 3 & 4 Jaguar Style Stakes
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accomplished horse rider and breeder and owns one of the world’s leading stables, Godolphin. The Dubai World Cup is a thoroughbred flat race on an all-weather surface which sees the horses run over a distance of 2,000 metres. Organised by Dubai Racing Club, the event has gathered a host of premier international sponsors, including Jaguar, Emirates airline and Longines, further elevating its status. Crowned the richest day in racing, the competition has a total prize purse of US$27.25 million (AED100 million) across the day’s nine races. Three of the world’s most valuable contests are also incorporated, the US$5 million Dubai Sheema Classic presented by Longines,
the US$5 million Dubai Duty Free and the US$10 million Dubai World Cup, sponsored by Emirates. Aside from the world-class racing action, there is a packed programme of events for spectators to enjoy. Tailored hospitality packages are available to create a truly bespoke experience at top-class restaurants, private suites and lounges all offering exceptional racetrack views. The venue has 72 hospitality suites capable of catering for between 10 and 500 people with some of the special spaces offering private terrace seating and balcony areas. Silks international buffet restaurant serves up delicious
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dishes while race-goers survey the course through f loor-to-ceiling windows. Alternatively, there is signature dining at Tiered Restaurant, which boasts a glass-fronted dining area with race track panoramas and views directly onto the winner’s circle. There are several ticketing options, including general admission which offers ample views of the track, food court and entertainment at The Apron between the track and the grandstand. The premium seating area is situated opposite the finish line and gives guests a chance to soak up all the action in an al fresco seated section. Head to the parade ring lounge and mix with the race-day elite and enjoy privileged close-up views of the horses. Failing that there are
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5 Jaguar Style Stakes 6 Dubai Duty Free race 7 Winner’s circle
f lat-screen televisions showing all the races should you miss a moment. A host of entertainment is on offer throughout the day at the race track’s famous venues with the Bubble Lounge and Irish Village both lively spots for post-race analysis. The sprawling complex is also home to a marina, IMAX cinema and five-star luxury trackside property The Meydan Hotel where you can relax in complete comfort after a busy race day.
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IMAGES 1, 2, 5, 6 & 8 COURTESY OF DUBAI RACING CLUB / ANDREW WATKINS
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The tense battle between horses thundering around the racecourse isn’t the only fierce competition to be had. Each year Dubai’s most stylish spectators vie for a series of coveted ‘best dressed’ crowns. The Jaguar Style Stakes sees fashion-conscious race-goers dress in designer finery and bespoke hats for the day. Categories for 2013 include Best Dressed Lady, Best Hat, Best Dressed Man, Best Dressed Couple and Most Creative Hat. Prizes include a brand new Jaguar XK for one year. Aside from the fashion contest, the dress code for the free admission area is casual, although T-shirts, trainers, flip flops and shorts are prohibited within Meydan Grandstand. Smart attire is required in the hospitality area and women are encouraged to come along in racewear and hats. It’s also worth remembering that Meydan Grandstand is itself an incredible attraction as a world-class horse-racing venue. The state-of-the art structure spans 1.5 kilometres and boasts a spectacular crescent-shaped roof encased with solar panels. It is the world’s largest integrated racing facility with a 1,750-metre allweather Tapeta surface track and a 2,400metre turf track. Other facilities include receiving barns and stables. After all the excitement of the races, why not pay a visit to the Meydan Museum and Gallery and discover the extraordinary story behind the race track and the fascinating history of horse-racing in the UAE.
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A family fuelled brunch of special magnificence. The broadest flavours and the widest of choices. Sample Far Eastern magic, take a spin around Italy with delightful pizza and pasta, dive into fresh Japanese sushi, we have something for the most discerning palate. Everybody is welcome! From the kids fun-land to our live Jazz band Come and sample our best value for money Friday brunch carnival.
Fridays 12:30pm - 4:00pm
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Hotly tipped trainers Mike de Kock
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South African trainer Mike de Kock and his jockey Christophe Soumillon are a formidable force in racing. Mike runs his operation in three centres with his home base near Durban. His horses are fed a special mix developed over several years of experimenting, adapted for young horses and horses in training. The stable also makes extensive use of treadmills and swimming pools as a training aid. Of the 18 horses nominated for the Dubai World Cup, champion mare Igugu’s appearance is highly anticipated. She has been nominated for the two US$5 million turf races, the Dubai Duty Free and the Dubai Sheema Classic. Aside from Igugu, dark bay Soft Falling Rain and stable-mate Emotif are another two to look out for. Mike has claimed nine Dubai World Cup Day races amounting to more than US$11 million in prize money. 9
8 Dubai Sheema Classic 9 Mike de Kock 10 Jaguar Style Stakes, Most Creative Hat category
Founded by HH Sheikh Mohammed, the stables takes its name from the Godolphin Arabian, from which all thoroughbreds trace their roots
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Godolphin
Dale Romans
HH Sheikh Mohammed’s racing operation won the Dubai World Cup last year with thoroughbred Monterosso ridden by French jockey Mickael Barzalona. The successful stables’ other jockey is Silvestre de Sousa and the trainers are Emiratis Saeed Bin Suroor and Mahmoud Al Zarooni. Established in 1992, Godolphin fast emerged as a force within the sport. The team’s home bases are Al Quoz Stables and Godolphin Marmoom Stables in Dubai. Founded by Sheikh Mohammed, the stables – which has won the Dubai World Cup six times – takes its name from the Godolphin Arabian, one of the three foundation stallions exported to England nearly 300 years ago to which all thoroughbred racehorses trace their roots. Champion Monterosso is nominated again for this year’s Dubai World Cup.
Dale is an American trainer with two excellent horses Dullahan and 2012 Breeder’s Cup Classic winner Little Mike. A licenced trainer from the age of 18, Dale has followed in the footsteps of his father, renowned trainer Jerry Romans. Among his most successful horses is Kitten’s Joy named American Champion Male Turf Horse, while thoroughbred Roses in May yielded the biggest payday of Dale’s career when he won the Dubai World Cup in 2005 netting him US$6 million.
When: Saturday March 30 Where: Meydan Grandstand, Nad Al Sheba How much: AED25 per person for general admission, packages start from AED 350 per person Contact: 04 3272110
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The write lines For the best in international writing talent, look no further than Dubai this March and the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
Q Six years ago, a chance conversation gave birth to an idea that has since blossomed into the largest literary festival in the Middle East. Over 100 of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best authors from 30 countries will come together to celebrate a shared passion for the written word. They will join more than 30,000 visitors to the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (EAFL) from March 5 to 9. The sheer scale and scope of the annual festival, now in its fifth year, is impressive enough, but the event has a unique significance for those taking part. It offers a warm community feel that sees authors return time and again to enjoy the special experience. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also not unusual to see one or two sitting in on the session of another writer, mingling with fellow book fans. It is largely word of mouth that has seen this festival become one of the most important events on the literary calendar. Authors who have taken part enjoy their time at the festival so much they encourage fellow writers to do the same and this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instalment looks set to be the biggest yet.
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With over 170 events held over the five days and some literary greats, such as Jeffrey Deaver, Anthony Horowitz, Kate Adie and Lynda La Plante attending this year, it promises to be another runaway success
1 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (previous page) 2 Isobel Abulhoul,festival director 3 & 4 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
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Meanwhile, Isobel Abulhoul, the woman whose chance conversation six years ago gave rise to the special event, is without doubt its driving force. Having come to Dubai in 1968, Isobel now calls the city her home having raised her five children here and co-founded the hugely successful book store Magrudy’s. Isobel’s drive, determination and deep passion for books have become the heart and soul of the festival she founded. Talking of the event’s roots, she explains: “There was a real need for a festival of this type in Dubai. There was nothing here like it at all. Books are such a huge part of my life and when I happened to talk with someone about the idea, it just seemed natural that I take it on from there. I could never have foreseen or predicted what the festival would go on to become.”
With over 170 events held over the five days and some literary greats, such as Jeffrey Deaver, Anthony Horowitz, Kate Adie and Lynda La Plante attending this year, it promises to be another runaway success. Isobel describes what makes EAFL so unique. “I think one of the things that make it so different is that Dubai itself is one of the festival’s major stars. It is such a wonderful destination and has attracted authors who are interested in the phenomenon that is Dubai. As we are sponsored by Emirates, it also means we can fly authors in and have them all on site at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, which means they are already at the venue and don’t have the stress of trying to navigate the city in order to attend events.
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“The authors who come here feel so comfortable that they have gone back and spread the word to other writers that this really is a fantastic festival to be involved in – there is such a wonderful atmosphere. Authors from around the world come together in one place and meet their own heroes and heroines. “Don’t forget, in their spare time writers are also readers and love the chance to meet other authors. They come here and they stay for the entire festival. Dubai is renowned for its hospitality and the literary festival mirrors that. It is a very attractive festival on the international circuit.” Bringing over 100 authors and managing a packed schedule of events throughout the festival takes meticulous planning which means Isobel and her team are already working on the 2014 festival lineup before this year’s event has even started. “Over the five years of the festival, we have been through a big learning experience,” she says. “I have a core team of eight who work on the festival fulltime, but we depend on an army of volunteers who give up their time to help make sure the whole event runs smoothly. Our team shares a passion for books
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and reading and we all look out for the next new names. We visit major book fairs, speak to publishers and look out for the unusual to make sure each festival is the best it can possibly be.” This year’s fifth anniversary edition offers a huge variety of writing talent and is themed Heroes and Villains with an outstanding lineup of crime writers on the programme. Also new this year is Ladies Morning with panel sessions and discussions and a Ladies Literary Lunch. The Lighter Side: Tales from a Writer’s Life is a comical evening with funny tales from five authors who have previously dabbled in stand-up comedy. For history fans, celebrated British historians Antony Beevor and William Dalrymple, will be hosting solo events, while legendary journalists Dan Rather and Kate Adie will offer a fascinating series of political and current affairs’ talks. Highlights for festival director Isobel include opening night’s A Twist in the Tale that will see Royal Shakespeare Company director Phillip Breen script and direct a showcase of some of the festival’s best talent alongside young local actors as they explore this year’s Heroes and Villains theme. Isobel also recommends Desert Stanzas, a night of music, poetry and traditional Arab dining
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5 Eugene Rogan 6 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
The authors who come here feel so comfortable that they have gone back and spread the word to other writers that this really is a fantastic festival to be involved in, there is such a wonderful atmosphere held in the desert featuring renowned poets Simon Armitage and Ben Okri, as well as local poetry greats Nujoom Al Ghanem and Adel Khozam. Isobel explains: “Desert Stanzas will be a truly magical evening and a genuinely authentic experience recreating the romance of a bygone era in the stillness of the desert. I can’t think of a better setting and all our festival’s authors will be attending. It really will be something very special.” Carrying on the festival’s theme is a Murder Mystery Dinner featuring the incredible
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selection of this year’s crime writers. Staged by Dubai Drama Group, dinner will be served as guests try and unravel clues led by some of fiction’s greatest crime scribes from Lynda La Plante and Ian Rankin to Jeffrey Deaver and John Connolly. Other attractions at the festival include writers’ workshops, calligraphy classes, children’s activities and interactive food stands showcasing world-class chefs such as Ken Hom and Rachel Allen.
For Isobel, there is something at the festival for everyone. “There is so much going on, I can’t believe people would come along and not find something wonderful.” Looking to the prestigious event’s future as a major fixture on the world’s literary scene, Isobel takes inspiration from a quote in H H Sheik h Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s book My Vision which reads: “In the race for excellence, there is no finish line.” Isobel explains: “I read that quote recently and it sums up how I feel. “I want to continue to do my best to ensure that we listen to audiences and give them an even better time each year. If we sell out every single session, signing and event, we’ll know we have done well. I’ll never be satisfied. I’ll keep striving as I want the festival to be better every year and I think that is only a good thing.”
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7 A session at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2012 8 Dan Rather 9 Ian Rankin 10 Festival of Literature
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Must-see authors The criminal minds: Ian Rankin
Festival director Isobel Abulhoul’s picks: Dan Rather
Bestselling author of the Inspector Rebus novels and standalone thrillers, his crime books have been translated into more than 36 languages and are bestsellers on several continents. The Scottish author is the recipient of four British Crime Writer’s Association Dagger Awards and in 2004 won America’s celebrated Edgar Award.
An international journalism legend, Dan Rather has covered virtually every major world event in the past 60 years including the assassination of President Kennedy and the wars in Vietnam, Afghanistan, Yugoslavia and Iraq. A former anchor and managing editor of CBS Evening News, he has interviewed every US President from Dwight Eisenhower to Barack Obama and landed two world exclusive interviews with Saddam Hussein in 1990 and 2003. In his critically acclaimed live reporting on the September 11 attacks, Dan spent 53 hours and 35 minutes on the air over less than four days. Isobel says: “Dan’s sessions are absolutely fascinating and he is already proving to be very popular.”
Anthony Horowitz British novelist Anthony Horowitz has penned more than 35 books, including the bestselling teen spy series Alex Rider, estimated to have sold 13 million copies worldwide. Anthony was also commissioned by the Conan Doyle Estate to write the new Sherlock Holmes novel The House of Silk in 2011. He has also created a string of major British television series, including the BAFTA-winning drama Foyle’s War. The talented author is currently writing the sequel to the Tintin film in collaboration with Stephen Spielberg and Peter Jackson.
Jeffery Deaver An internationally famed crime and thriller writer, Jeffery Deaver’s novels have topped bestseller lists around the world, are sold in 150 countries and have been translated into 25 languages. His most recent novels are XO and the internationally bestselling James Bond novel Carte Blanche. The American author’s book A Maiden’s Grave was made into an HBO movie starring James Garner and his novel The Bone Collector was turned into a hit movie starring Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie.
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Eugene Rogan Eugene is a Fellow of the Middle East Centre at St Antony’s College, University of Oxford and he has an MA and PhD in Middle Eastern history from Harvard. At Oxford, he teaches the modern history of the Middle East and is author of The Arabs: A History, which is being translated in nine languages. He is editor of the new Cambridge University Press book series, The Contemporary Middle East. Isobel says: “Eugene’s detailed knowledge of the history of Arabs is incredible and the more we understand that history, the more we can understand the world around us today. His books are a riveting and easy read.”
Sarah Al Hamad A Kuwaiti writer, photographer and cook, Sarah is the author of Cardamom and Lime: Recipes from the Arabian Gulf. Her new book Sun Bread and Sticky Toffee: Sweet Ways with Dates is due to be published this year and features the many uses of one of the world’s oldest cultivated foods in a collection of delicious recipes. The history of the date palm is also explored in stunning photographs taken on Sarah’s travels. Isobel says: “Sarah is an up-and-coming writer to look out for, although she is very well-known in her own country. She has incorporated food into a journey and the result is something very special.” When: March 5 to 9 / Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City How much: From AED60 / Contact: emirateslitfest.com, 04 3534002
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Y o u ’ l l f i n d a w a Y. Meydan Beach. The exclusive beach experience you ’ll do anything to be a part of.
CHill dinE RElaX To enquire about membership or day guest access, make a reservation at our signature italian restaurant Giannino or for guestlist to Café del Mar dubai, simply call us on + 971 44 333 777 or visit www.meydanbeach.com like us on facebook.com/Meydanbeach M e y d a n B e a c h , T h e w a l k , J B R, d u b a i .
B E l o n G.
Taste Minato
A fresh approach to fine Japanese cuisine is the hallmark of this prestigious restaurant. Authentic dishes are served in an engaging atmosphere at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek. Sushi connoisseurs can look forward to handcrafted dishes such as this dragon roll of eel and cucumbers wrapped in thinly sliced avocado. Contact: 04 2227171.
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T A S T E OF D UBA I / t a s t e
ALL IN GOOD TASTE Embark on a culinary journey and savour the finest international cuisines at Taste of Dubai, the region’s largest food festival
Q Stepping out for a meal in Dubai presents a very enjoyable challenge when attempting to choose from the incredible selection of world-class restaurants available. Renowned for gastronomic flair, dining in Dubai is vibrant and varied. The city is home to a host of restaurants led by some of the best chefs in the business so there are endless culinary pleasures to be had. Taste of Dubai offers a golden opportunity to preview these premium establishments with a taster of each on offer all in one place. A wonderful showcase of the finest cooking talent, the al fresco festival gathers culinary masters from 30 of Dubai’s most acclaimed restaurants. During the three-day gourmet marathon Dubai Media City Amphitheatre is transformed into a feast for the senses filled with heavenly aromas and sumptuous sights. Move from kitchen to kitchen and try delicacies from dim sum to duck, each paired with a selection of beverages. Enjoy a cooking masterclass with a celebrity at Philips Chefs’ Theatre or show off your own kitchen skills guided by masters such as celebrated British restaurateur Gary Rhodes and Indian cooking great Reza Mahammed at the Kenwood Cookery School.
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T A S T E OF D UBA I / t a s t e
Chefs and their expert teams will demonstrate their culinary skills, inspiring creative flair and offering limitless gastronomic knowledge throughout the festival
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1 Voodoo Shrimp, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (previous page) 2 Jack fruit and palm seed, The Palace Downtown Dubai 3 Cooking classes at Taste of Dubai 4 Norberto A Valdez Palacios, Asado executive sous chef
Now in its sixth year, Taste of Dubai attracts around 25,000 participants keen to enjoy the best flavours and cooking techniques from all corners of the globe. “Our visitors love to enjoy good food and they are always ready to try something new in a city like Dubai which boasts one of the world’s best collections of restaurants,” says Chris Fountain, from the team which organises Taste of Dubai. “This year, we’re bringing them dishes they may never have tried before, chef displays that will wow them and one of the best family weekends available in the city. Taste of Dubai has made its mark here. This is the event for food, beverage and lifestyle businesses to reach affluent, discerning UAE residents and visitors who appreciate the finer things in life. The atmosphere is relaxed as guests of 3
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all nationalities appreciate the flavours of the city with friends,” Chris adds. Added to the excellent selection of restaurants participating in this year’s edition are eight newcomers to the festival. Armani Hotel Dubai is represented by two of its finest eating options Armani/Ristorante, introducing the flavours of Tuscany and Armani/Amal, bringing innovative Indian cuisine into the mix. The Palace Downtown Dubai signature restaurants Thiptara and Asado offer visitors to the festival authentic tastes of Thailand and Argentina, respectively. Firm favourites making a return to the event this year include Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse at The Address Dubai Marina and the award-winning Rhodes Mezzanine at Grosvenor House Dubai. Chefs and their expert restaurant teams will demonstrate their culinary skills, inspiring
creative f lair and offering limitless gastronomic knowledge throughout the festival. The Kenwood Cookery School invites 12 participants to try their hand at creating dishes during a live cooking lesson led by celebrity chefs. It’s an incredible opportunity for visitors to learn from master chefs using the finest ingredients in an interactive environment as they prepare, cook and sample the recipes. The Philips Chefs’ Theatre provides another opportunity to see the kitchen maestros in action as they create culinary delights in the show kitchen. The master class includes sessions with Gary Rhodes and iconic Indian cook Vineet Bhatia. While the chefs shine in the kitchen, the audience is given the chance to quiz their cooking heroes on all manner of foodie topics. For a little luxury during the festival opt for a VIP ticket which offers fast-track entry to
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the event, access to a VIP lounge and free entry into the prize draw where AED500 gift vouchers to eat at the festival’s 30 restaurants could be won. To keep children entertained there’s also a Kids’ Zone with live dance and theatre productions, bouncy castles, face painting and even a live cooking station where the celebrity chefs will be on hand to teach little ones how to make their favorite treats. If you feel inspired to take some food goodies home, then a browse at the Shopping Market is in order. You’ll find French department store Galleries Lafayette and a host of brands such as Nestle and Lakeland offering an exclusive range of products especially for the festival. Or after all of the excitement, simply relax in the sunshine at the entertainment and music stage where a line-up of bands and DJs will set the mood with soothing jazz.
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Best of the chefs Gary Rhodes
Where: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre When: March 14 to 16 How much: Tickets from AED60, sample dishes from AED15 Contact: tasteofdubaifestival.com
5 Gary Rhodes 6 Thiptara dish 7 Taste of Dubai
One of the first celebrity chefs, Gary is a household name worldwide with cookery books, successful television shows and four restaurants. The British chef’s Dubai restaurant Rhodes Mezzanine at Grosvenor House Dubai is one of the finest in the city where the Michelin-star chef presents British classics. Having cooked for Prime Ministers and Presidents, Gary prepared a meal for Princess Diana and the Jordanian Formula 1 team. He holds an OBE after being recognised for his services to cooking by the Queen in her birthday honours list.
Vineet Bhatia
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Having trained in India, France and the UK, Vineet is widely considered as a trailblazer in Indian cuisine with restaurants in Dubai, London, Moscow and Mauritius. Known for revolutionising Indian food in Britain, he was also the first Indian chef to be awarded a Michelin-star. Indego By Vineet at Grosvenor House Dubai offers contemporary Indian cuisine in a sumptuous fine-dining setting.
Jenny Morris South African chef Jenny is a regular on radio and television channels in her home country and throughout the world, offering her cooking expertise. Known as ‘the giggling gourmet’, Jenny has penned best-selling cookbooks Rude Food, Nude Food, Good Food and Cooking With Jenny Morris. The talented chef also runs her own cooking school in Cape Town and featured in the Food Network series Jenny Morris Cooks Morocco in 2012.
Giorgio Locatelli Wit h award-winning restaurants in London and Dubai, Giorgio has appeared in successful television cooking shows and is the author of cookery book Made In Italy. His family ran a Michelin Star restaurant in Italy which was Giorgio’s introduction to fine food. Trained in the UK, Italy and Switzerland, Giorgio has worked under some of the greatest names in food such as Anton Edelmann at The Savoy in London. Ronda Locatelli is one of Dubai’s finest Italian restaurants offering the best in rustic Italian cooking.
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Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, Meliá Dubai
t a st e /chef’s ta b le
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CHE F’ S T A BL E / t a s t e
pride of place The ultimate in bespoke dining, a ‘chef’s table’ experience offers a rare glimpse into the theatre of a high-end kitchen
Q There is a wonderful moment when a waiter presents a meal to the table and eager diners excitedly survey the food, appreciating the aromas and tantalising look of a perfectly crafted dish. Eyes dart between plates and the conversation pauses as delicious servings are savoured. Yet, for most, the journey of each dish’s component parts before they make it to the plate remains something of a mystery with the hard work and careful consideration remaining behind the scenes. In reality, each ingredient has been carefully chosen to complement the other, painstakingly sourced, seasons taken into account. Crafting the perfect dish begins long before the cooking starts with themes, flavours and trends all considered. Then there’s the preparation of the kitchen, its team and the years of training and experience that combine to bring guests the perfectly formed gourmet dish. Dining at a chef’s table is a fantastic opportunity to fully appreciate the entire culinary experience by offering an insight into a chef’s domain. Both an art form and a science, professional cooking takes creativity, dedication and hard work. A selection of Dubai restaurants now offer a chef’s table with a vantage point on all of that action as guests watch their chosen dishes prepared by expert hands. A chance to interact with the chef, the occasion is a gold mine of information for true food fans who can glean valuable insider tips, recipe and ingredient ideas and, of course, the kudos that comes from meeting the master of the feast. Chefs also gain from the interaction as it’s a chance to quiz diners on their preferred tastes and restaurant experiences. As a concept, the notion of a chef’s table is thought to date back to medieval times when the personal cooks of kings met with royal guests at banquets and created menus especially for them. Nowadays, there are several variations on the theme. Some chef’s tables are set up directly in the kitchen in the heart of the cooking action, while others are allocated a special space within the restaurant where the chef cooks exclusively for a party of diners. Concierge samples the best of Dubai’s chefs’ tables for a dinner with a difference.
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Traiteur One of Dubai’s leading lights in fine dining, gourmet French restaurant Traiteur is famed for its fine cuisine and stunning setting. With bistro-style dining on the menu, this is a wonderful place to watch some of the most accomplished cooks in the city at work. The restaurant is designed to offer guests views of the elevated show kitchen turning the cooking itself into an attraction. Chef’s Table at Traiteur takes that concept further with a more intimate experience. A private room accommodating up to 10 people allows for a completely separate space from the main restaurant. With an exclusive cooking station, the chef cooks especially for the table with dishes served as part of a set menu that can be selected when making the booking. Aside from the mouth-watering food and convivial atmosphere, there is the chance to have an informal conversation with the chef as he informs on each dish. Where: Park Hyatt Dubai / When: On request How much: Prices available on request / Contact: 04 3172222
Anise Diners are in for a treat at international finedining restaurant Anise. The fire and ice themed venue boasts a live cooking station where guests can immerse themselves in all the excitement of a bustling kitchen. To get even closer to the action, the chef’s table is located inside the kitchen itself seating up to eight people. Guests can book the table and let Chef Arman Bin know of any allergies or preferences before a four-course menu is specially created. Alternatively, guests can opt for a ‘blind set menu’ where only allergies are taken into account. Beyond that the chef has free rein to create a sumptuous four-course menu of his own design. As each course is served, the chef comes to the table to explain the dish, its ingredients and preparation technique. Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City When: Booking essential, although not available on special occasions such as Christmas Day and Valentine’s How much: From AED265 per person / Contact: 04 7011111
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Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor As one of the finest purveyors of modern Indian food in Dubai, the chef’s table experience here is a feast for all the senses. Chef Akshay cooks for up to 10 guests at a special table for around an hour and a half. Offering a one-of-a-kind experience, diners marvel as Tawa (hot plate), Sigdi (grill) and Kadhai (wok) cooking methods are performed. The historical facts of each dish are explained as guests tuck into a five-course set menu of seafood, curried meats, fish
and kebabs. Chef Akshay says: “Our mission is to enhance the guest experience through the chef’s expertise of the trade, thereby creating a visual appeal. Interaction with the guests is a key attraction. With impulsive cooking tickling your taste buds, guests can get on board for a culinary journey to India.” Where: Meliá Dubai When: Reservations one day in advance How much: From AED159 per person, minimum five people / Contact: 04 3868111
“Our mission is to enhance the guest experience through the chef’s expertise of the trade, thereby creating a visual appeal. Interaction with the guests is a key attraction” Thiptara The finest in Thai cuisine and stunning views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Lake make Thiptara a wonderful choice for a special meal. The experience is made even more incredible with the chance to join Chef Chaiwat at a special table set up in a private dining area. An exclusive four-course meal awaits chef’s table diners with a menu tailored to meet your preferred tastes. Savour Thiptara’s authentic specialities such as Thai deep fried prawn cake or green chicken curry. Thiptara, meaning magic at the water, boasts sophisticated interiors with high ceilings and dark wood carvings. This is a fantastic chance to observe a master of Thai cooking at work. Where: The Palace Downtown Dubai When: Daily, 8.30 to 11pm How much: AED1,500 per couple, including a bottle of bubbly or selected beverages Contact: 04 8883444
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Al fresco dining with the best views of Burj Khalifa & The Dubai Fountain
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Souk Al Bahar, or "Market of the Sailor", transports visitors into ancient Arabia with its combination of cobbled stone corridors and traditional architecture. It’s an eclectic mix of cafés, lounges, boutique shops and international restaurants located along the souk’s extensive Waterfront Promenade, overlooking The Dubai Fountain, the world's tallest performing fountain and the world’s tallest building - Burj Khalifa. A mere stroll from The Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar is a vibrant, must-see destination.
Abd El Wahab | Al Malouf | Baker & Spice | Bice Mare | Café Habana | Dean & Deluca | Fuego | Karma Kafé | La Postreria Left Bank | Mango Tree | Patiala | Rivington Grill | Sammach | Shakespeare and Co. | The Meat Co. | Urbano | Zahr El-Laymoun 04 362 7011 / 12
www.soukalbahar.ae
Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com
Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.
March 2013 | issue 103
March 2013 | issue 103
T H E
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FEbRuaRY 2013 | issuE 102
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JaNuaRY 2013 | issue 101
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M A G A Z I N E
the guide
shop / discover / experience / taste
malls / souks / markets / art galleries city tours / culture / museums adventure / family activities / sports hotel outlets and promotions / city dining
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SHOP From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shoppers' dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets
MALLS
THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE
04 3900091
Though not a mall, this picturesque 1.7km-long beachside shopping promenade, is home to nearly 200 retailers including Boots, Boutique One, Zadig et Voltaire and Aiyanna of London. The views are also stunning.
Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL
04 4361000
Spread over four levels, the mall is home to 160 stores dedicated to fashion, jewellery and home furnishings with waterfront dining and a children’s area.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1 IBN BATTUTA MALL
04 3621900
Inspired by the Arab traveller Ibn Battuta, the mall is home to designer shops, Woolworths and a multi-screen cinema complex.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to 1am Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10.30pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 MERCATO
04 3444161
An elegant mall featuring 50 premium boutiques and fine-dining restaurants spread over two floors.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm. Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D1
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri noon to 10pm
04 5154000
04 3198999
Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BURJUMAN
MALL OF THE EMIRATES
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 11am. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B2
A mix of brands caters to the needs of the entire family with stores such as Bhs, Camaeiu, Dorothy Perkins and Pumpkin Patch.
BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS
04 3520222
Find the world’s largest indoor ski slope nestled among 350 shops, children’s entertainment areas and a cinema.
04 3359999
A Renaissance-styled mall on Jumeirah Beach Road featuring a wide variety of brands such as Pandora, Armani Junior, Gant and Virgin Megastore. There is also a seven-screen cinema and a children's play area. Throughout the year Mercato also hosts various entertainment acts in the central area.
Downtown Dubai
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1 04 4099000
LAMCY PLAZA
This mall is one for label lovers with Saks Fifth Avenue, Chanel, Dior, Versace, Kenzo, Ralph Lauren, Furla and more.
GATE VILLAGE, DIFC
OASIS CENTRE
This four-storey mall spans 134,000 sq m and houses 77 stores, including Carrefour Express and Fun City.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz or Business Bay Map reference: C2 PALM STRIP
04 3461462
Get some beach action before browsing the shops at Palm Strip – a two-storey open mall with designer shops and restaurants.
04 3622222
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 6 to 10pm Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1
800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)
Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre, Gate Village is home to a range of high-end stores.
BUYING TIME Dubai is peppered with world-renowned shopping malls and those in the market for a bit of retail therapy should direct their attention to Mall of the Emirates, which offers a large selection of designer brands including Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Chlo Chloé (pictured). The mall is also home to Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski slope. For details visit malloftheemirates.com
1. The Dubai Mall 2. Dubai Marina Mall 3. The Souk, The Dubai Mall 4. Baume & Mercier 5. The Dubai Mall 6. Souk Al Bahar
THE DUBAI MALL
The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. In addition to over 1,000 shops, this mall is home to the world’s largest indoor gold souk, an Olympic-sized ice rink and aquarium.
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Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 THE VILLAGE
04 3494444
A selection of boutiques such as s*uce and Candella, a high-end bridal store, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 5 to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1 TIMES SQUARE
04 3418020
A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2
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WAFI
04 3244555
This Egyptian-themed shopping haven has over 200 designer stores with 1,000 fashion brands including Miss Sixty, Chanel and Escada.
SHOPPERS’ SURVIVAL GUIDE
MIRDIF CITY CENTRE
800 6422
The newest addition to Dubai’s shopping scene, this largely residential mall is home to 350 brands including Zara, Massimo Dutti and Pull & Bear.
Timings: Sun to Wed
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2
10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: E3 SAHARA CENTRE
06 5316611
Dubai Festival City/Deira
Located in Sharjah, the mall is best for lifestyle shopping with sporting goods, toys, cosmetics, jewellery and home furnishings from leading retailers.
Timings: Sun to Tue 10am to 10pm. Wed to Sat 10am to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya
AL GHURAIR CITY
04 2225222
With 200 retail outlets, Dubai’s first mall offers a great range of value fabrics, alongside high-street favourites.
SOUKS
Timings: Sat to Wed10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 ARABIAN CENTRE
04 2845555
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Home to more than 200 fashion, perfume, homefurnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.
ARTS & CRAFT SOUK
04 3418020
Timings: Sun to Wed
Located in Times Square shopping mall, this small market sells handcrafted jewellery, accessories and contemporary UAE art.
10am to 10.30pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3
Timings: Noon to 7pm every second Friday of the month Metro: First Gulf Bank Map reference: C2
DEIRA CITY CENTRE
04 2954486
Great for bargains, this popular mall features well-known brands such as Debenhams, Benetton, Shoemart and Next.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Deira City Centre Map reference: E2 DRAGONMART
04 4285665
Built in the shape of a dragon, this 1.2km mall is one of the largest trading hubs for Chinese products outside China.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu 10am to 11pm. Fri 2pm to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: E3 DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
04 2325444
Covering 204,000 sq m, this retail resort is home to 550 shops including Marks & Spencer. There is also a Community Arts Market.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Metro: Emirates Map reference: E2 DUBAI OUTLET MALL
04 4234666
A bargain hunter’s dream, covering 93,000 sq m of discount shopping 20 minutes out of town on the Dubai – Al Ain highway.
Timings: Sat to Wed
10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3
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Some of Dubai’s malls are very big. To save time, pick up a map at the entrance so you can find the stores you want to visit quickly. In most malls similar outlets are grouped together. For a quiet and leisurely shopping experience, visit Dubai’s malls throughout the week to avoid the weekend crowds. When shopping in the traditional souks, be prepared to haggle. Vendors expect it. Before buying gold or visiting the Gold Souk, find out the current market price of gold from your hotel concierge to ensure that you do not pay over the odds. Some malls specialise in particular kinds of shopping, for example, home furnishings, luxury labels or high-street brands. Decide what you want from your shopping trip and pick the right mall for you.
GOLD SOUK Comprising more than 300 retailers, this traditional souk is one of Dubai’s oldest trading areas and one of its biggest attractions.
Timings: Daily 7am to noon
and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square
Map reference: E1
SOLD ON
GOLD
Dubai has long been associated with gold. The largest gold trading centre in the Middle East, the story began over a century ago when the emirate opened a modest marketplace by Dubai Creek. Following these humble beginnings, the souk grew to become one of the largest in the world. Today the souk has been modernised and while the haphazard shacks and oil lamps of yesteryear have been replaced by shiny shop faces and neon lights, this historic spot is still a tantalising introduction to the Arabian world.
SPICE SOUK Brimming with sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the spice souk is a feast for the senses.
Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 TEXTILE SOUK Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.
Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1
MARKETS
KHAN MURJAN
04 3244555
Modelled on an ancient 14th century souk Khan Murjan has more than 150 stalls offering traditional arts and crafts.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 SOUK AL BAHAR
04 3627011
Browse more than 100 boutiques before admiring views of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and The Dubai Fountain.
COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET
800 33232
Open every first Friday of the month, this market held in Dubai Festival City, brings together artists and craftsmen. This is the place to shop for works of art.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2
Timings: Fri 10am to 8pm Map reference: E2
SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
050 4250543
04 3668888
Featuring 75 boutique shops and craft stalls set in a bazaar environment overlooking the scenic waterways of the adjacent hotel complex.
Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1
COVENT GARDEN MARKET DUBAI
Artisans from across the emirate congregate at this market, located in The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, to sell their wares
Timings: Wed and Thu 5pm to midnight. Fri and Sat 10am to 9pm Map reference: A1
LABEL STABLE Aigner, TDM, MOE Alexander McQueen FA, MOE Armani Collezioni BV, FA Balenciaga BV, MOE Bally TDM Boutique 1 MOE, TW Brioni FA, MOE Bugatti BJ, MOE, Wafi Bulgari BV, MOE, TDM Burberry BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Calvin Klein BJ, FA, Wafi Calvin Klein Underwear DCC, DFC, MOE Carolina Herrera FA, MOE Cartier BJ, BV, MOE, TDM Cerruti 1881 Wafi Chanel BJ, FA, Wafi Christian Lacroix BJ Christian Louboutin FA, MOE Chloe BV, FA Dior BJ, FA, MOE Dunhill DFC, TDM DKNY BJ, MOE, TDM Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE Elie Saab FA Emporio Armani BV, MOE, FA Ermano Scervino TDM Ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE Escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Etro TDM, MOE, BJ Etoile La Boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio Armani BV, MOE, TDM Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo Boss BJ, FA, MOE John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA, MOE Kenzo BJ, FA Lancel TDM Lanvin BV, FA Louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi Prada BJ, MOE, TDM Ralph Lauren BJ, FA, MOE Roberto Cavalli FA, MOE, Wafi Rocco Barocco DMM, TDM, Wafi Salvatore Ferragamo BJ, FA, MOE Saks Fifth Avenue BJ Stella McCartney FA, MOE Tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Yves Saint Laurent BV, MOE, TDM BJ BurJuman (04 3520222) BV Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 3198999) DCC Deira City Centre, (04 2954486) DFC Dubai Festival City, (04 2325444) DMM Dubai Marina Mall, (04 4361000) FA Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422) MOE Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747) TDM The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) TW The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 3900091) Wafi Wafi Shopping Centre (04 3244555)
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1
discover Dubai is one of the world’s most modern and dynamic destinations, with a fascinating heritage very much alive and waiting to be discovered
art galleries
GALLERY 76
pro art gallery
Showcases paintings, sculptures and photography from local emerging and international artists.
One of Dubai’s newest art galleries, Pro Art sells some of the most carefully curated contemporary art in the global market.
04 3444398
Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to 6pm; Thu 9am to 4pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 GALLERY etemad
04 3468649 1X1 Art Gallery
04 3411287
Exhibits striking artwork that features in museums and international collections.
Located in Al Quoz, this established gallery showcases international mixed media and is a big favourite with Dubai's budding art scene.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm; Sat noon to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
GALLERY Isabelle Van Den Eynde
ART SAWA
04 3408660
A showcase of regional contemporary art with a library and video lounge for artists and art enthusiasts to interact. Art Sawa recently opened a second gallery space in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
Timings: Sat to Thu 11am
to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ARTSPACE
04 3230820
A contemporary gallery displaying the works of international and local talent in the Dubai International Financial Centre.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: D1 AYYAM GALLERY
04 4392395
04 3235052
Local and international artists exhibit at this well-known gallery in the Al Serkal district
CARBON 12
04 3406016
With regular exhibitions this gallery features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.
Timings: Sat to Thu 11.30am
to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY
the mojo gallery
04 3477388
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Map reference: C2
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1
A non-commercial contemporary art space where visitors can view and discuss local and international artists. The Pavillion includes two galleries, a restaurant and a shisha lounge.
lawrie shabibi
Closed Fri
the pavilion downtown dubai
04 4477025
Founded by the former head of sales of Christie’s Middle East and the former MD of Art Dubai, the gallery showcases works by regional artists.
Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Map reference: D2
Timings: Sun to Thu
04 3411367
04 3536233
Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Map reference: A1
Timings: Sat to Wed 8am to 6pm. Thu 8am to 2pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D2
GREEN ART GALLERY
04 3469906
MAJLIS GALLERY
This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am
to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri
Map reference: C2 TOTAL ARTS
04 3475050
Founded in 2003, this Arabic gallery is located off Mankhool Road in Bur Dubai.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1
04 3470209
meem gallery
One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat. Map reference: B2
traffic
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 XVA GALLERY
04 3585117
04 3230909
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm; Sat noon to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1
With operations all over the world, the gallery showcases the work of great masters as well as new talent.
Art buffs with love this ultramodern gallery, where modern art is on show in a 2,500 sq ft gallery in Gate Village in DIFC. Current exhibitions include work by Yazid Oulab and Sami Al Karim
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Sat 12 to 11pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1
Timings: Sun to Thu 11am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: E1
An area of 4,000 sq m dedicated to international contemporary art in the heart of Gate Village, DIFC.
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3
Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.
04 4250400
OPERA GALLERY
4
Exhibitions by artists from the Middle East, with a schedule of events both in the gallery warehouse and outside locations.
marsam mattar
04 3477883
1. Dubai Metro along Sheikh Zayed Road 2. Camel racing 3. Cultural breakfast 4. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood wind tower 5. Dubai Creek
THE THIRD LINE
Spanning two floors and 10,000 sq m, Total Art specialises in artists and art influenced by the culture of the Middle East.
04 3988331
2
Located in The Dubai Mall, this small art gallery and framing shop displays thoughtprovoking works by a range of Middle Eastern artists.
The oldest gallery in Dubai, the Green Art Gallery showcases contemporary art with a focus on regional work.
04 3469305
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2
This modern gallery on The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence has different exhibitions every month and showcases a variety of artworks by local artists.
the Art source
04 2856972
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm; Closed Fri Map reference: C2
10am to 6pm, Sat 11am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 2pm to 9pm Map reference: D1
Mojo focuses on contemporary exhibitions of original paintings, conceptual photography, digital media prints, illustrations, video art, installation pieces and sculptures.
Representing some of the Arab world’s leading and emerging artists, Ayyam promotes contemporary Middle Eastern art.
04 4257888
04 3450900
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dis c o ver/the guide
City tours
CREEK CRUISES
04 3939860
Choose four-star cuisine with lively entertainment, or a more tranquil option with five-star catering by the Taj Palace Hotel.
camel facts
culture
A
Timings: 7.30pm to 10pm Guide price: From AED175 CREEKSIDE LEISURE
Air ALPHA TOURS
04 2949888
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter. City shuttle services from your hotel are available.
Timings: Flights depart
from 10am to 4pm Guide price: City tour AED1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hour-long tours AED3,060 per person FALCON AVIATION SERVICES
02 4448866
This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.
Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm daily (except Tue) Guide price: Prices start from AED800 (20 minutes), AED3,350 for up to six people SEAWINGS
04 8070708
04 3368406
Hire a dhow with dinner and transfers, plus butler service and enjoy unlimited beverages.
Timings: Daily boarding 8.30pm Guide price: AED200 dinner cruise
Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charters are available.
Timings: Daily 8 to 10pm and 10.30pm to 12.30am. Boarding at 8pm Guide price: AED160 Map reference: E2 AL MANSOUR DHOW
04 2057033
This five-star dhow from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers international cuisine, alcoholic beverages and live entertainment.
Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED185 ART MARINE
04 3388955
Cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and Dubai Creek with Art Marine chartered yachts.
Timings: From 7am into the night Guide price: From AED750 per hour
MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 for an evening dhow cruise
04 3666546
This 442-seat luxury venue hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film.
WONDERBUS
04 3595656
This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up Dubai Creek for an hour-long cruise.
Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING
Guide price: AED145
adults; AED95 children (3-11 years); AED450 family (two adults and two children)
04 3536666
Traditional Arabian dhows take guests on cruises each evening, with a banquet of food included in the price.
Map reference: B2
Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm.
Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 per person (40 minutes)
04 3243000
Located at Mall of the Emirates, this centre brings together a wide variety of performing and visual arts including drama, dance, opera, comedy and children’s shows.
04 3511117
Land
AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE
04 3414777
DANAT DUBAI CRUISES
Fly from Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in the south west or Dubai Creek in the north east and explore the city from up high.
Water
DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)
JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves when visiting the mosque.
Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and Thu for one hour from 10am Guide price: AED10 Map reference: D1 al farooq omar bin al khattab mosque
04 3944448
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Umm Suqeim is one of only a few mosques in the city open to non-Muslims. Tours run three times a week. Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am. Closed Fri Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: C1 THE BIG BUS COMPANY
04 3407709
If your stay in the emirate is short, you might not have time to take in the sights under your own steam. For an organised tour, why not hop aboard a double-decker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck?
Timings: Tours depart every 20 minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide price: Day tour – AED220 adults, AED100 children, AED540 family. Night tour – AED125 adults, AED75 children, AED375 family (two adults and two children)
04 3536666
Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE.
Contrary to popular belief, a camel does not store water in its hump. It is in fact a mound of fatty tissue from which the animal draws energy when food is scarce. A camel can last five to seven days with little or no food and water and can lose a quarter of its body weight without impairing its physical abilities. Although camels can withstand severe dehydration, a large animal can drink as much as 100 litres (21 gallons) in 10 minutes. Such an amount would kill another mammal, but the camel’s unique metabolism enables it to store the water in its bloodstream. Camel’s milk is much more nutritious than cow’s milk. It is lower in fat and lactose and higher in potassium, iron and vitamin C. Drunk fresh, the warm frothy liquid is heavy and sweet. The Bedouin name for the one-hump dromedary or Arabian camel is ‘Ata Allah’ which translates to ‘God’s gift’.
Timings: Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide price: Breakfast AED60, lunch AED70. Reservations essential Map reference: E1
Museums
slice of life If you’re interested in learning more about the Emirati way of life, head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) and sit in on a cultural breakfast or lunch. Visitors can chat with locals on any topic. Enjoy a selection of Emirati dishes such as lugamat (sweet sticky doughnuts served with date syrup) and balaleet (omelettes and chickpeas). The centre has recently increased its activities by hosting a new Cultural Dinner Event every Tuesday at 7pm and a Cultural Brunch at 10.30am every Saturday. Jumeirah Mosque visits increase from four to six days a week. Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai Entry: Cultural breakfasts are held every Monday and Wednesday at 10am and cost AED60 per person. Lunches are held every Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm and cost AED70. Reservations are required for both. Contact: 04 3536666
DUBAI MUSEUM
04 3531862
Dubai’s most comprehensive museum features a rich collection of aerial photographs of 'old' Dubai, an assortment of multimedia exhibits and a wide variety of artefacts. This museum, located inside the impressive Al Fahidi Fort, provides visitors with an in-depth history of the emirate.
Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) Map reference: E1 AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE
04 2260286
Learn about the education system of yesteryear at Al Ahmadiya School & Heritage House. Located in Deira in the north east, visit Dubai’s first school and traditional house, which is home to fascinating life-size dioramas.
Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 7.30pm, Friday 2.30 to 7.30pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM
04 2253312
Located next to the spice souk, the museum contains rare manuscripts of royal and administrative decrees and photographs and provide a glimpse of times gone by. This is definitely one for culture vultures and history buffs to try out.
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1
HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE
04 3937151
This museum, where Emiratis prepare local food and perform dances to Arabic music, provides a glimpse of a bygone era, when pearl trading and fishing were the emirate's main source of revenue.
Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF
04 3946343
A peaceful majlis with antique interior ornaments in Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s former summer residence.
Timings: Daily 8.30am to 1.30pm and 3.30 to 8.30pm. Fri 3.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1
THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM
04 3937139
Wander around this restored house and see fascinating paraphernalia including old photographs and currency of Dubai.
Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 9pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED2 adults, AED1 children (under eight years free) Map reference: E1
In the know: Best behaviour It is advisable to cover legs and shoulders in public places like parks and shopping malls. During the holy month of Ramadan, there is no eating, drinking or smoking in public during the fasting hours (daylight). Try and avoid showing the soles of your feet as this is considered rude in local culture. Take care to avoid any behaviour that could be considered indecent such as public displays of affection. Married couples may hold hands but are not allowed to kiss or hug in public.
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Supported By:
Round 1: 15-16 March
Round 2: 17-18 May
TEL: 04 436 1320 • EMAIL: KARTING@DUBAIAUTODROME.COM
1
experience With a vast desert, spectacular coastline and world-class sports facilities, Dubai is full of fun-packed tours and activities
Attractions
FIRST YACHT
04 3754148/050 6550313
Range of options from speedboat rides to refined electric boat cruises.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED200
Individual hotels and tour operators can also organise pleasure cruises on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING
04 2959477
Charter an exclusive yacht and sail past modern icons including Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and The World islands.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: From
AED2,400 per boat ART MARINE
04 3388955
Set sail from Jumeirah Beach Hotel and cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Creek.
Timings: From 7am Guide price: From
AED750 per hour
BATEAUX DUBAI
04 3994994
Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner.
Timings: Daily boarding at 7.45pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11pm Guide price: AED350 CLUB MINA
04 3993333
As well as fishing trips, Club Mina offers all kinds of exciting or relaxing cruising options.
Timings: From 6am to 6pm Guide price: From AED3,500 DANAT DUBAI CRUISES
04 3511117
A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters.
Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 DREAMDAYS
800 2080
Take a four-hour catamaran cruise along Dubai’s coastline and enjoy a barbecue lunch as well as snorkelling.
Timings: Every Saturday
8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275 EL MUNDO
050 5517406
Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason)
Timings: From 2:30pm Guide price: Adults
04 2340812
Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available. LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES
04 3357676
04 2629993/050 7548466
Journey to a Bedouin campsite, ride a camel, smoke shisha together with a range of other desert-based activities.
Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150
NET TOURS DUBAI
OASIS PALM TOURISM
Cruising
EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI
Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.
per person
SUMMERTIME MARINE
04 2573084
See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.
04 2666655
Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping. OASIS PALM TOURISM
04 2629993/050 7548466
Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24
hours for up to seven people
Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.
THE YELLOW BOATS
OFF ROAD ADVENTURES
Adrenaline-pumping tours around Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab hotel in bright yellow inflatable crafts.
Offers excursions including dinner at a Bedouin camp, overnight camping and trips to Liwa.
800 8044
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Adults from AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER
04 3254975/050 1002477
Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along Dubai Marina. Inclusive of buffet, drinks and live entertainment.
Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275 per adult and AED90 per child VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT
04 3572200
Hop aboard the Arabian dhow for a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise.
Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises
Desert tours
050 6289667
ORIENT TOURS
04 2828238
Expect innovative desert trips, tours between Dubai and Muscat and adventurous expeditions. ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite. TRAVCO
04 3366643
Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.
Flying ALPHA TOURS
04 2949888
Discover Dubai from the sky and marvel at a long list of world-renowned landmarks.
ARABIAN ADVENTURES
EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL
Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding.
Learn how to fly or top up your hours at the only approved flying school in Dubai.
04 2682880
From a Hummer safari taking in an authentic Bedouin camp, to a trek through the Hajar Mountains. DESERT RANGERS TOURS & ADVENTURE SPORTS
04 3572233
A range of exciting desertbased activities are available such as camel trekking, desert driving and rock climbing.
1. Desert Safari 2. Skydiving 3. Arabian Adventures 4. Bateaux Dubai
Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED1,199
per person for 25 minutes. Private hour-long tours are priced at AED4,840 per person
ARABIAN DESERT TOURS
3
04 2999339
Call individual tour operators for times and prices
04 3034888
2
04 2995155
Timings: From 9am to 5pm Guide price: AED1,000 for first-time flyers trial flight, plus AED100 for airport pass FALCON AVIATION SERVICES
02 4448866
This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details
AED250, children AED210
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Dubai’s premium bespoke
tailoring house
• • •
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Opp. Theatre Box Office (04-368 6192) • Jumeirah Road Opp. Pizza Hut (04-394 4844) Pyramid Building Near Burjuman Center (04-396 8282) • Jumeirah Beach Hotel Mezzanine Level (04-348 6878) Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) “C” Goldcrest Executive Near Al Mas Tower & Bonnington Hotel (04-443 8766) | F R E E T R A N S P O R T AVA I L A B L E F O R V I S I T O R S |
royalfashion.biz
FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY
09 2224747
Take pleasure flights over the neighbouring emirate of Fujairah or enjoy a flying lesson from the fully equipped aviation centre.
Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying
lessons AED960
Paintballing
(see Sports) DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG
04 4361400/04 4361422
Hunt down your adversaries in a mock medieval castle with artificial fog, moody lighting and a pumping soundtrack.
Enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the new developments around the city including the Burj Khalifa.
Timings: Thu to Sat 9.30am to 11.30pm, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED160 with go-karting
Timings: From 9am to 4pm Guide price: AED1,375 per
PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND
SEAWINGS
04 8832999
person for 40 minutes
04 3244755/050 6514583
Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.
Go head to head with paintballing opponents in the heart of Dubai city at the Wonderland entertainment complex.
Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED80 for two
ULTIMATE CHARTER
04 3464194
BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES
hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings
Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise.
SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB
04 2854949
Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12
Karting (see Sports)
Shooting
06 5487777
Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semiautomatic paintball guns and the latest antifog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours on weekdays (AED90 Thu to Sat), includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls
Skydiving iFLYDUBAI
04 2316292
Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre in Dubai Festival City.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED195. Children AED145 SKYDIVE DUBAI
050 1533222
Based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, this centre offers tandem skydiving for thrillseeking tourists.
Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO
Little Explorers
The Mane Attraction
04 4485200
Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child
Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for
800 LEISURE (5347873)
MAGIC PLANET
A fun and interactive family-focused amusement centre in Deira City Centre and Mall of the Emirates.
non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED625 for certified divers
Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free
Family activities
PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY
04 4297949
Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to seven-yearolds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.
Amusements & attractions
Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED30 per hour
BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)
SEGA REPUBLIC
800 28843867
Admire unparalleled views of Dubai in this spectacular tour through the tallest building in the world.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED100, children (4 to 12 years) AED75. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400 DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW
04 3244555
A brilliant light and sound show featuring Egyptianthemed graphics and a storyline depicting The Return of the Pharaohs.
Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI
02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Family fun Whether you have mischievous infants or impatient teenagers, Dubai offers something for all the family. Desert safari Sand boarding, quad biking, camel riding, belly dancing – the list of activities available in the desert is endless. Choose from an adrenalinefuelled adventure or a more sedate cultural journey of discovery. Water parks No matter what your age, the UAE’s water parks will leave you squealing with delight. Our favourites are Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and Wild Wadi at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. KidZania This interactive children’s ‘city’ allows children to fly aeroplanes, drive buses and work in restaurants playing adult roles in a world created just for them (pictured). Ski Dubai Escape the heat and head to Ski Dubai, the longest indoor ski slope in the world. This popular attraction offers skiing, snow boarding, tobogganing, tubing and even zorbing. There’s also an area to build snowmen.
Features games, tasks and facilities to test children's limits, help them discover hidden talents and develop skills.
Swim among 33,000 aquatic animals including sharks, giant groupers and stingrays in The Dubai Mall’s 10-million-litre tank.
Timings: From 2pm to
dusk Sun to Thu. From 11am to dusk Fri and Sat. Guide price: Adults AED1,750. Cash only
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Ride rollercoasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62m into the air.
Timings: Tue to Sun 11am to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA
04 4485222
A 'mini city' in which kids can role play over 80 adult professions including pilots, doctors and firefighters.
Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to
9pm,Thu 9am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to11pm Guide price: AED 95 for children aged two to three, AED140 for four to 16-year-olds.
04 4488484
Do a stable tour Get up close and personal with award-winning prize thoroughbreds at Meydan Racecourse. The tour includes a trackside breakfast at Farriers at The Meydan followed by a snoop around the stables. Expect to see the horses work out on treadmills and in swimming pools Go desert hacking If tearing over the dunes in a turbocharged 4x4 puts you on edge, a more sedate way to experience the desert is on horse back at the Emirates Equestrian Centre. Desert hacks take place on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30am and 4pm. Learn to play polo Experience the sport of kings, queens and maharajas at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club beside Arabian Ranches. Group and private lessons are available and for those who don't wish to stick and ball, pack a picnic.
Explore five zones and 150 amusement games at the first Sega Republic indoor theme park in the region.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Guide price: Entry is free of charge but AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card. Power Pass AED140, Platinum Pass AED220 THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN
800 382246255
From the foot of the world's tallest building, watch the world’s tallest dancing fountain shoot jets of water 150 metres into the air in time to music.
Timings: Sat to Thu 1 to 1.30pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm. Friday 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND
04 3243222
Creekside family entertainment village is a great day out for the entire family.
Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 6pm, theme park 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED105 adults, AED95 children
Arts & crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE
04 3447331/04 3410144
Create your own piece of pottery art at Café Ceramic.
Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm to midnight Guide price: ceramic prices vary from AED45 to AED200
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JAM JAR
04 3417303
Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm, Fri 2 to 8pm. Closed Sun Guide price: Prices start at AED85 per canvas
Birdwatching NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE
04 3380201
Learn all about the national bird of prey at the falconry centre just outside Meydan Racetrack.
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Snow penguins at ski Dubai Visitors have a rare opportunity to interact with these remarkable birds in a oneof-a-kind encounter.
Timings: Sun to Thu 1 to 9pm, Fri and Sat noon to 9pm Guide price: AED175 for adults; AED150 children
Edutainment CHILDREN’S CITY
04 3340808
An interactive science and cultural centre.
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am
to 8.30pm, Fri 3 to pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket ENCOUNTER ZONE
04 3247747
Wafi’s adventure playground for kids. Look out for 'Lunarland', 'Galatica' and the skate park.
Timings: Sat to Wed
10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED35 for two hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass
Ice skating (see Sports)
Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY
04 4261030
For the ultimate aquatic experience that you'll never forget, meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. This is one of Dubai's most famous attractions.
Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual
rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach
DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO
04 4485200
Marvel at the diverse collection of marine life or swim with the sharks at The Dubai Mall. There are also glass-bottom boat rides for the less brave and a behind-the-scenes tour.
Cool it
10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adult tunnel entry AED25, child AED20; tunnel and zoo AED50
04 3484444
With its central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with funpacked rides, this water park is always a hit with adults and children of all ages.
04 3369773
Learn more about dolphins, seals and other marine life at this fully air-conditioned dolphinarium.
THE LOST CHAMBERS
Golf
04 4260000
Discover a maze of underwater halls and tunnels, with 65,000 marine animals swimming at the Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis, The Palm.
AQUA PLAY
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Aimed at children from the age of two to eight, Dubai's latest waterpark is both fun and educational.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to
10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Friday 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE
04 4260000
Ride the rapid and shoot down the fastest free-fall slide in the Middle East into a shark-filled lagoon. Located at the Atlantis, The Palm.
Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED225 for adults, AED180 for children under 1.2 metres DREAMLAND AQUA PARK
06 7681888
Perfect for families and only an hour’s drive from Dubai, this large fun-filled park has a number of entertaining rides.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am
to 6pm. Fri, Sat and public holidays the park is open for families only from 10am to 8pm (no all-male groups) Guide price: AED135 adults; AED85 children ICELAND WATER PARK
800 WOWRAK (969725)
A sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert.
Timings: Sun to Wed and Fri 10am to 6pm. Thu and Sat 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m AED150. Below 1.2m AED100
6
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED220 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free
Timings: Shows Mon to Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children
Waterparks
Splashland is a fun family water park near the Dubai Creek featuring slides, twisters, a lazy river, water cannons and children’s activity pool.
WILD WADI
DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM
adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight
04 3241222/04 3243222
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED105 adults; AED95 children
Timings: Sun to Wed
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
SPLASHLAND
AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
04 6010111
Dubai Ice Rink Whether you’re practicing pirouettes or learning a basic glide, the Olympic-sized ice rink at The Dubai Mall provides a chilledout way to pass a hot summer afternoon. Tots, tweens and teens are all welcome at this fun filled ice park. Location: The Dubai Mall Contact: 04 448511 Ski Dubai The first indoor ski slope in the region caters for all ages and abilities, with green, blue, red and black runs, as well as a variety of jumps and raps. If that sounds too hardcore, head to the Snow Park, or get up close and personal with gentoo and king penguins, in the resort’s unique penguin enclosure. Location: Mall of the Emirates Contact: 04 4094000 Chillout For the ultimate icy experience book a table at Chillout, a bar entirely carved from ice. All the necessary clothing is provided, including thermal coats, gloves and shoes and then you’re free to enjoy dinner and mocktails in this effortlessly cool haunt. Location: Times Square Contact: 800 CHILLOUT (24455688)
(7,303 yards, par-72) This championship course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II.
5. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo 6. Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 7. Dreamland Aqua Park 8. Emirates Golf Club
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED875 for 18 holes ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB
04 3663000
(6,531 yards, par-72) This is a popular course with both visitors and locals, designed by Ian Baker-Finch.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED555, Fri and Sat AED660 for 18 holes DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB
04 2956000
(6,800 yards, par-71) The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes and the Creek on at least four holes.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED695 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes
7
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
04 3802222
Majlis Course:
(7,211 yards, par-72)
Faldo Course:
(6,916 yards, par-73)
The Par Three:
1,239 yards, par-27) Emirates Golf Club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament, but also offers everything from fine dining to bar bites available alongside topnotch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a spa.
Green fees: Majlis Course
daily AED995 for 18 holes. Faldo Course Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes
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JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA
04 8145555
Climbing
(3,299 yards, par-36, nine holes)
WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB
This pretty nine-hole course features wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which roam the fairways.
For an exciting and challenging rock-face experience perfect for fit and energetic types, why not head to the only state-of-the-art textured indoor climbing wall in the UAE?
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED160
04 3240000
for 9 holes and AED240 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED195 for 9 holes and AED320 for 18 holes. Twilight rate is AED125 from approximately 5.10pm
Timings: Sat to Thu 6.30am to 10pm, Fri 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED60 for one hour with an instructor
Jumeirah Golf Estates
THE WALL
Earth Course:
It's a challenge, but at more than 15 metres high (that's nearly 50 feet), this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.
04 3752222
(6,473 yards, par-72) Fire Course: (6,507 yards, par-72) One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED495 and Fri and Sat AED795 for 18 holes
04 3065061
Timings: Sat to Thu 2
to 10pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED90 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor
THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI
04 3905600
(7,396 yards, par-72) One of the most luxurious golf clubs in Dubai, the Colin Montgomerie-designed course features lakes, landscaped gardens and 81 large bunkers.
Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB
04 4251010
(7,538 yards, par-72, 18 holes) Set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, this links-style course offers a challenging round.
Green fees: Daily
AED795 for 18 holes
Sports
Archery HATTA FORT HOTEL
04 8523211
Think you’re Robin Hood? Put your archery skills to the test while taking in the scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.
Timings:8am to 6pm Guide price: Sun to Thu
AED50 for 30 minutes and Fri AED50 for 30 minutes JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB
04 8836555
The 5,000-square-metre soft sand archery range can safely accommodate up to 12 people in a group at the same time.
Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED100 for 30
minutes with unlimited shots
Diving PADI and BSAC approved instruction is available at all levels. Hotels will organise dives on request. Freediving courses are also available.
Guide price: Two-day PADI course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,850. Pleasure dives from AED400
Fishing Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING
04 2950516
Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED875
11
ART MARINE
04 4068825
Adrenalin adventures Dubai boasts an array of high-octane experiences for the visitor looking for an action-packed stay. Skydive Dubai Expect breathtaking views and a truly unforgettable experience from Skydive Dubai. Your dive will see you drift over the Arabian Gulf with outstanding views of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and the stunning Dubai skyline. Water parks Dubai boasts some of the world’s best water parks to enjoy during your stay. Aquaventure on Palm Jumeirah offers a world of excitement set in 42 acres with speed slides, river rapids and tropical landscapes. The Leap of Faith tunnel slide catapults riders through a shark-filled lagoon, while The Plunger propels riders along with water jet blasts. Wild Wadi situated in front of Burj Al Arab offers over 30 rides and attractions. Balloon Adventures Emirates Take to the skies for an exhilarating ride in a hot air balloon. Enjoy incredible views from an unforgettable vantage point. The balloon can climb at up to two metres per second to ensure you reach ample heights to view the goats and camels below.
Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED750
per hour onwards
DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB
04 2054646
Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.
Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price:AED2,000 for four hours. Longer trips are available as required first yacht
04 3754148/050 6550313 Up to seven people can enjoy a day of fishing.
Timings: 6am onwards Guide price:AED3,400 for four hours. JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA
04 8145555
9. Dubai Desert Classic 10. Rock climbing 11. No Boundaries 12. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai
Take a group fishing trip and make the catch of the day. Timings: Mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: AED1,750 for four hours on the boat. no boundaries
050 2514988
10
Book in for seafishing in southern Oman and stay the night in a lodge.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED4,400 a day for up to four people. AED440 to stay in a lodge
SUMMERTIME MARINE
04 2573084
Up to seven people can be accommodated on private fishing trips.
Timings: From 6am to 10am and midday to 4pm Guide price: AED2,500 per hour ULTIMATE CHARTER
050 1002477
Catch your own lunch on a deep-sea fishing trip.
Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1,800 for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee
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expe r ience/THE GUIDE
Horseracing The season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com
Horseriding DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES
04 3618111
From show jumping and dressage to desert hacking and stable tours, the club offers a wide range of equestrian experiences.
Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED300
04 8327171
This out-of-town equestrian centre offers riding lessons and desert hacks as well as the chance to meet and learn about camels.
04 8836000
Enjoy the natural desert surrounding in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.
Timings: Tue to Sun 7am to noon and 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED150 for a 30-minute lesson, AED200 for a one-hour outdoor ride (experienced riders only)
Timings: See website
for availability Guide price: AED600 FORMULA ONE
02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
AL NASR LEISURELAND
Experience the thrill of Formula One, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater.
04 3371234
Cool off and burn a few calories skating around the Olympic-sized ice rink or try your hand at 10-pin bowling.
Timings: See website
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two
DUBAI ICE RINK
JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA
Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by world champion Rod 'Hot Rod' Fuller at the Yas Drag Racing Centre.
Ice skating
A British Horse Society-approved riding and training centre for all abilities. Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing. 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson
800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
riding from AED200
hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire
Timings: Lessons from
DRAG RACING
Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert
EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
050 5537986/ 050 5587656
Motorsports
THE DESERT RANCH
for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience
13
04 4485111
This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED50 for two hours
14
polo day Dubai Polo Gold Cup March Enjoy the premier polo competition of the year played at the stunning Dubai Polo Club grounds. Some of the world’s best polo teams are taking part and it’s a chance to see the sport’s stars in action as they battle it out to win the prestigious Gold Cup trophy. Spectators can look forward to an enjoyable afternoon in the sunshine. Take a picnic and relax in the lush green grounds as you take in all of the first-class equestrian competition on show. The Dubai Polo Gold Cup is on until March 15 and tickets are priced from AED150. Contact: 050 1190732
Karting 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.
Mini golf 04 8523221
04 3402408
Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve while spotting birds and other sea life along the way.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for mini golf and fun course. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities
The fortress-style architecture opens to an indoor and outdoor shooting academy and floodlit clay-shooting ranges.
Timings: Winter – Wed to Mon 1 to 10pm; summer – Wed to Mon 3pm to midnight Guide price: Outdoor AED220 for 25 shots; indoor AED140
06 5487777
One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.
Skiing SKI DUBAI
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Chill out at the indoor snow park and ski slope, in Mall of the Emirates.
Watersports
DESERT RANGERS
Fun, cross country golf course and driving range with scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.
04 8836555
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Free of charge. Call for season information
Sailing
HATTA FORT HOTEL
JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB
02 5629050
Located on the Dubai to Abu Dhabi highway, watch polo while enjoying a meal in the clubhouse. Nonmembers are welcome.
30 minutes
Guide price: AED6,400
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm; Thu 10am to midnight; Fr 9am to midnight; Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED120 for entry to Snow Park for adults, AED110 for children; AED180 for adults and AED150 for children for two hours on the ski slope
GHANTOOT POLO CLUB
Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
Enjoy the ultimate holiday experience when you set sail on a luxury yacht ranging in size from 50 to 188ft.
Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details
The centre at Jebel Ali provides karting for everyone over the age of eight on its one-kilometre track just outside Dubai.
04 2573084
Guide price: AED300 per person for a day’s trip. See Listings for tour operators
The facility includes two polo fields, a riding school and equestrian centre.
050 5592131
Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE
SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB
04 3618111
EMIRATES KART CENTRE
Take your pick from five boats that can be chartered for a day on the water or go one step further and learn to sail one yourself.
Tour operators offer biking trips through the Hajar Mountains, with gear provided. Trips include pickup and lunch on request.
DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB
Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110
050 5517280
Shooting
Polo
13. Ice Rink, The Dubai Mall 14. Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club 15. Karting
Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL
Drive open-wheel, singleseat race cars, two-seat open sports cars and topof-the-range race-spec sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.
Mountainbiking
Timings: Sun and Tue 10am to 9.30pm; Mon, Wed and Sat 10am to 9.30pm Guide price: Sun to Wed AED35; Thu to Sat AED40 including skate hire
Learn how to sail or improve your sailing skills with twoday courses or day training in the beautiful waters of the Arabian Gulf.
for four hours
02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
04 2096000
This ice skating rink at the Hyatt Regency Dubai offers professional coaching and fun for the whole family.
04 3941669
YAS Racing School
Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Private tuition starts at AED1,500 for private tuition
GALLERIA ICE RINK
DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB
Guide price: AED300 per person including transport
Hotels can organise watersports on request. Some have their own facilities. See Taste section for hotel telephone numbers
Guide price:
Banana rides AED150 for 20 minutes Parasailing AED250 per ride Waterskiing AED150 for 20 minutes Wakeboarding AED150 for 20 minutes Windsurfing AED170 per hour
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1
Taste Superb restaurants, chic cocktail bars and hip nightclubs make Dubai a stylish and sophisticated city for fine food and drink
Hotel outlets & promotions
Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah
04 3668888
Umm Suqeim For a delicious selection of authentic Thai food book a table at Pai Thai. Relax and unwind with delicious cocktails at Koubba Bar.
Al Bustan Rotana
04 2820000 Garhoud
Head to Choices every Tuesday for Indian night. Prices start at AED189 per person for a taste of authentic Indian cooking. Or head to Blue Elephant for the best in Thai cuisine. Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Lebanese Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse
Al GHURAIR RAYHAAN BY ROTANA
04 2933000 Deira
All-day dining restaurant Liwan boasts a high wood-canopied ceiling with modern décor. Glassblock walls and reflective mosaic tiles emphasise the restaurant’s bright and airy ambience while the outdoor terrace is a great place for al fresco meals. The restaurant serves a daily buffet spread offering an array of international cuisine and live cooking stations for breakfast, lunch and dinner, alongside an a la carte menu selection. Liwan – International Shayan – Iranian Yasmin Lounge – Lounge Buzz Deli Cafe – Cafe
Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa
04 8329900 Desert
Al Diwaan is a popular gourmet restaurant serving an eclectic selection of international cuisine. Al Diwaan – International
Al Manzil Hotel
04 4285888
Downtown Dubai Dubai's favourite sports bar, Nezesaussi Grill, is now hosting 'Nezesaussi Brekky for lunch' any day of the week from midday to 4pm for only AED65. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar
Al Fayrooz Lounge – Afternoon tea Al Hambra – Spanish Arboretum – International Khaymat Al Bahar – Arabic Koubba Bar – Cocktail bar MJ'S – Steakhouse Pai Thai – Thai Pierchic – Seafood
Amwaj Rotana
04 4282000
Jumeirah Beach Residence Brandish your chopsticks at the Benihana all-you-can-eat dinner every Saturday and Monday from 6 to 11.30pm. Prices start at AED209. Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian
Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club
04 3663000 Dubai
An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine international food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. For a relaxing evening visit Birdies for some drinks and light bites at this lively sports lounge. Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge
Armani Hotel Dubai
04 8883888
Downtown Dubai Bringing this season’s wine dinner series to a close on March 20 are Argentinean winemaking legends Familia Zuccardi.The award-winning masters of Malbec, Chardonnay and Torrontes will be on hand to host a sumptuous pairing menu at Armani/Ristorante on March 20 from 7pm, priced at AED 650 per person for drinks and dinner. Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/Mediterraneo – Mediterranean Armani/Peck – Italian Armani/Privé – Lounge/nightclub Armani/Ristorante – Italian fine dining
Asiana hotel
04 2387777 Deira
Head to Pergolas every Tuesday for seafood night costing just AED270. Enjoy a range of tasty dishes from around the world at international restaurant. Enjoy Lebanese flavours at Mawal restaurant.
The property’s signature restaurant Sonamu offers fine Korean cuisine and is ideal for those seeking a cozy place to socialise. Also try Lamesa which offers an authentic Filipino dining experience. With a cosy warm ambience and chefs serving a mouthwatering selection of dishes, this is an excellent choice for Filipino cuisine.
Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Lebanese Pergolas – International Zaika Restaurant – Indian
Hanabi – Japanese Lamesa – Filipino Sea World – Seafood Sonamu – Korean Yuraku – Japanese
Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai
04 3211111
Downtown Dubai
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Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
04 4260000
The Palm Jumeirah With 20 restaurants, bars and lounges brought to you by world-renowned chefs, Atlantis is one of the most diverse and iconic culinary destinations in Dubai. Each venue is unique and, as you’d expect, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion. Asia Republic – Asian Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – International Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International N'Dulge – Nightclub Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Burger Joint – American diner
2
3
Auris Plaza Hotel Al Barsha
04 4554800 Al Barsha
This inner city hotel is home to Didon Restaurant, a traditional Arabic eatery, well-known for its Levantine-inspired dishes, warm atmosphere and fantastic service. Didon Restaurant – Arabic
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
04 8096100 Desert
This charming desert retreat is home to the popular Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant for fine Arabic food. Visitors should also try the delicious pizza at Pizzeria Le Dune and sample the sumptuous signature cocktails available at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge.
1. Tomo, Raffles Dubai 2. Zuma, Dubai International Financial Centre 3. Voi, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray 4. The Ivy, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq – Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Pizzeria Le Dune – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic tea bar
Burj Al Arab
04 3017777 Jumeirah
Head to Skyview Bar for a superb afternoon tea of gourmet sanwiches and fresh cakes. There are also spectacular views over Dubai to enjoy as you savour the delicious offerings. Prices start at AED425 per person, including a glass of bubbly. You may also like to pay a visit to Al Iwan for the finest Arabic fare. 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
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20/02/2013 18:48
T HE GUI D E / T A S T E
Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites
Green Community
Dubai Marina
04 8852222
A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet offering an eclectic mix of dishes at Pine Grill international restaurant. Try The Bar for a relaxing evening drink. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar
Crowne Plaza Dubai
04 3311111
Sheikh Zayed Road Take a culinary journey through Arabia with Al Dana restaurant’s all new Arabic Friday brunch buffet. With a range of delicious offerings including freshly baked breads and hot mezze to mouth-watering seafood and a mixed grill, there’s a dish to suit every taste. The brunch starts from 12-4pm and is priced at AED180 per person. Al Dana – International Al Fresco – Italian Al Tannour – Arabic Harvester’s Pub – English Oscar’s Vine Society – Wine bar Sakura – Japanese Trader Vic's – Polynesian Wagamama – Far Eastern Western Steakhouse – Steakhouse Zinc – Nightclub
Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira
04 2625555 Deira
Enjoy a sumptuous buffet feast with family and friends on Easter Sunday at Spice Island. Tuck in to roast turkey and salmon for mains and tasty treats of cupcakes and Easter eggs. With over 200 dishes from all over the world there is plenty for everyone. Easter brunch is served up on March 31 from 12 – 4pm, starting from AED229 for adults and AED99 for children 6 – 12 years old. Children under six eat free. Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International
Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City
04 7012222
Dubai Festival City The Belgian Brunch at the Belgian Beer Café boasts a hearty feast including delicious waffles. Every Friday from 1 to 4pm. AED249. Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
04 3461111 Jumeirah
Located in the heart of Jumeirah. hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd, with Boudoir, Loca Restaurant and Bar and Sho-Cho hosting regular theme nights. Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Lebanese Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian El Malecon – Cuban Flooka – Mediterranean Loca Restaurant & Bar – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai
04 3194000
Enjoy stunning views during The Observatory’s happy hour, which runs from 5 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday and 5 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday, or head to Az.u.r for a selection of Mediterranean dishes. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International
Dusit Thani Dubai
04 3433333
Sheikh Zayed Road Visit international restaurant The Californian for flavours from all over the world. Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International
Fairmont Dubai
04 3325555
Sheikh Zayed Road Book in for a famous Friday brunch from 12-3pm at Spectrum on One, priced from AED295 per person. Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese
Fairmont the palm, dubai
04 4573388
Palm Jumeirah One of Dubai's newest luxury hotels, Fairmont The Palm, Dubai is home to a variety of high-end restaurants . Frevo - Brazilian Flow Kitchen – International Mashrabiya Lounge – Lounge The Cigar Room – Lounge Seagrill on 25° Restaurant & Lounge - Seafood The Cigar Room - Lounge Delicacy - Deli
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa
09 2449888
Al Aqah Beach 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
Masterchef Joe Barza is headed to Lebanese restaurant Awtar for an exclusive Lebanese culinary showcase on March 17 and 18. With more than 20 years of professional cooking and kitchen management experience, Chef Barza focuses on trends in Lebanese cuisine. Joining Chef Barza for this special culinary experience priced from AED395 per person including soft beverages. 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
DINE BY CUISINE ARABIC Mawal – Al Bustan Rotana The Courtyard Restaurant – Al Manzil Hotel Mawal – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Khaymat Al Bahar – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Didon – Auris Plaza Hotel, Al Barsha Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Al Tannour – Crowne Plaza Dubai Sakura – Crowne Plaza Dubai Al Khayma – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Al Qasr – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa The Sushi Café – Fairmont Dubai Awtar – Grand Hyatt Dubai Al Basha – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Shahrzad – Hyatt Regency Dubai Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Al Khaima – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Al Diwan – Metropolitan Palace Hotel Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Café Arabesque – Park Hyatt Dubai The Lounge – Park Hyatt Dubai Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Topkapi – Taj Palace Hotel Na3Na3 – The Address Dubai Mall Al Bayt – The Palace Downtown Dubai Ewaan – The Palace Downtown Dubai Amaseena – The RitzCarlton Dubai
ASIAN Benihana – Al Bustan Rotana Blue Elephant, Al Bustan Rotana Pai Thai – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Benihana – Amwaj Rotana Armani/Hashi – Armani Hotel Dubai Hanabi – Asiana Hotel Yuraku – Asiana Hotel Asia Republic – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Nobu – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Saffron – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Al Iwan – Burj Al Arab Junsui – Burj Al Arab Sho-Cho – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Thai Bistro – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Benjarong – Dusit Thani Dubai Peppercrab – Grand Hyatt Dubai Sushi – Grand Hyatt Dubai Wox – Grand Hyatt Dubai Toshi – Grand Millennium Dubai Buddha Bar – Grosvenor House, Dubai Siddharta Lounge – Grosvenor House, Dubai Summer Palace Chinese
Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Miyako – Hyatt Regency Dubai Shanghai Chic – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel White Orchid – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Beachcombers – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Nomad – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel ET Sushi – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hakkasan – Jumeirah Emirates Towers The Noodle House – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Tokyo@thetowers – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Zheng He’s, Mina A’ Salam – Madinat Jumeirah Rooftop Terrace – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Wok-In Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Deira Eau Zone – One&Only Royal Mirage The Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai Minato – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Sumibiya – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek The China Club – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Yum – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Icho – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Indothai – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Tomo – Raffles Dubai Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Creekside – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Peacock – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Sakura – Taj Palace Hotel Hukama – The Address Downtown Dubai Okku – The H Hotel Dubai Shiba – The Meydan FAI – The Palace Downtown Dubai Thiptara – The Palace Downtown Dubai Blue Rain – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Spice Emporium – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
INDIAN Zaika Restaurant – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Armani/Amal – Armani Hotel Dubai Masala – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa iZ – Grand Hyatt Dubai Indigo by Vineet – Grosvenor House, Dubai Chor Bazaar – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Amala – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Meliá Dubai Chutney’s – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Ashiana – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Handi – Taj Palace Hotel
MEDITERRANEAN Rosso – Amwaj Rotana Armani/Peck – Armani Hotel Dubai Armani/Ristorante – Armani Hotel Dubai
Ronda Locatelli – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Pizzeria Le Dune – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Majlis Al Bahar – Burj Al Arab Cucina Italian Kitchen – Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Al Fresco – Crowne Plaza Dubai Capanna Nuova – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Flooka – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Az.u.r – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Pax – Dusit Thani Dubai Andiamo! – Grand Hyatt Dubai Dante – Grand Millennium Dubai Luciano’s – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Soda Box – Hotel Pullman Mall of the Emirates Foccacia – Hyatt Regency Dubai Cubo Pasta – Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Mistral – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Sicilia – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel La Traviata – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Carnevale – Jumeirah Beach Hotel La Veranda – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Biscotti – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Mosaico – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Brunello Restaurant – Kempinski Hotel & Residences, Palm Jumeirah The MED – Media One Hotel Prego’s – Media Rotana Dubai Sketch – Metropolitan Palace Hotel La Plaza – Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Frankie’s – Oasis Beach Tower Thyme Restaurant – Oasis Beach Tower 101 – One&Only The Palm, Dubai La Moda – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Certo – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Vivaldi – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Rococo – Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Verdi – Taj Palace Hotel Shades – The Address Dubai Marina Bas Pasta – The Meydan
Splendido – The RitzCarlton Dubai Bussola – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
SEAFOOD Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Seaworld – Asiana Hotel Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fish Bazaar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Divaz – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Mi Vida – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Ossigeno – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Pizzeria – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Beach Bar & Grill – One&Only Royal Mirage Fish Market – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Al Mersat Restaurant – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Amwaj – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Zeta – The Address Downtown Dubai
STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Drive – Al Bustan Rotana MJ’s, Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah Seafire – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Western Steakhouse – Crowne Plaza Dubai The Exchange Grill – Fairmont Dubai The Grand Grill – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Terra Firma – InterContinental Dubai Festival City Blue Flame – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel The Rib Room – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Rhodes Twenty10 – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Palm Grill – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Fire & Ice – Raffles Dubai Chef’s Steak House Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Ruth’s Cris Steak House – The H Hotel Dubai Prime – The Meydan Center Cut – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Hunters – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Benihana, Al Bustan Rotana
Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community
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Grand Millennium Dubai
Hilton Dubai Jumeirah
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Al Barsha
Dubai Marina
Jumeirah
04 4299999
At the Belgian Beer Cafe diners can enjoy a feast of mussels, rabbit stew, grilled salmon, shrimps croquette and a selection of cheese and desserts for AED275 per person, including selected free flowing Belgian brews, house beverages, grape and bubbly. Noon to 3pm. Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian Exit 36 – Garden venue
Grosvenor House, Dubai
04 3998888
Dubai Marina Celebrity chefs including Vineet Bhatia, Gary Rhodes and Richard Sandoval operate exclusive restaurants in this award-winning five-star hotel. Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British Rhodes in Residence– Afternoon tea Siddharta Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Bar – Bar The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American
5. Fogueira, Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach 6. Meliá Dubai 7. Rococo, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel 8. Barasti, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi
Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa
04 3995000
Dubai Marina This popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations. An array of exellent dining options abound here such as sumptuous steaks at The Grand Grill and authentic dishes from China at the populat Summer Place Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar.
6
7
Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Fish Bazaar – Seafood Thai Restaurant Luciano’s – Italian Polo Bar – Cocktail bar Summer Place Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Chinese Salamar – Garden lounge The Grand Grill – Steakhouse The White Lounge – Lounge The Underground Pub – English
Hatta Fort Hotel
04 8099333 Hatta
Enjoy drinks by the outdoor pool and watch your favourite films at Movies Under The Stars nights every Thursday and Friday. Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International
Hilton Dubai Creek
04 2271111 Deira
Award-winning chefs Scott Price and Nick Alvis' table9 by nick and scott offers elegant cuisine in an intimate setting. Or you may like to try Issimo Bar & Lounge for the relaxing ambience offered at this lively sports bar. Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by nick and scott – European
04 3991111
04 3480000
Italian favourite BiCE Restaurant at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort will be running a full-month promotion on Italian Gaja wine, accompanied by a paired set-menu. During the month of March guests can enjoy the 'Super-Tuscan' selection from Gaja Winery. The exquisite four course pairing menu will be available for AED495.
Try Friday brunch at La Parrilla located on the 25th floor with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and Burj Al Arab. There's free flow bubbly, an a la carte main course on selected items, buffet with desserts and starters.. Enjoy the brunch every Friday priced from AED 550 per person.
Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar BiCE Restaurant - Italian Cuban Bar – Cuban Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar
360° – Terrace bar Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Mahiki – Nightclub Uptown – Bar
hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates
04 3772000
Sheikh Zayed Road For multicultural cuisine, visit allday dining restaurant Sanabel, where you can dine al fresco. Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar
hyatt regency dubai
04 2091234 Deira
Savour a lavish brunch every Friday at Focaccia restaurant. The gourmet venue offers an extensive buffet of international specialties featuring Italian antipasti, Iranian starters and fresh seafood. Children under 12 eat free. Prices start from AED199 per person, dine from 1 to 4pm. Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Focaccia – Italian Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub
Ibis World Trade Centre dubai
04 3324444 Zabeel
Cubo Pasta is a popular lunch spot for delegates at neighbouring World Trade Centre. Cubo Pasta – Italian
InterContinental Dubai Festival City
04 7011111
Dubai Festival City Prepare your palate for a burst of flavours at Anise every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm for AED325, including soft drinks. Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steakhouse
Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa
04 8145555 Jebel Ali
Embark on a culinary journey at Ibn Majed. Buffets feature specialities from Germany, Thailand and India. Divaz – Seafood restaurant Mushref Bar – Cocktail bar Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Tex Mex Steak House – American Sports Cafe – Sports bar White Orchid – Far Eastern
Jumeirah creekside hotel
04 2308555 DIFC
Experience authentic Asian cuisine with an evening brunch at Nomad featuring a buffet selection of contemporary Asian salads, dim sum and mouth-watering desserts. Priced from AED 125 including soft drinks. Starts from March 7 every Thursday and Friday, from 7 to 11pm. Biscotti – Italian Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Cuban Nomad – Asian
Jumeirah Emirates Towers
04 3300000 DIFC
Try the Wine Maker Night at Al Nafoorah and enjoy the delights of vintage beverages from Chateau Musar paired with a five course set menu that offers a true Lebanese experience. Available on March 5 from 7.30 to 10.30pm priced at AED850 per person. Alfie's – English Al Nafoorah – Arabic Clique – Bar ET Sushi – Japanese Hakkasan – Chinese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy Dubai – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s Bar – Champagne bar Vu's Restaurant – International
IN THE KNOW
Non Muslims may consume pork in licensed restaurants where dishes using pork will be identified and prepared separately. When dining at restaurants in hotels, a service charge of 10 percent and a tourism fee of six percent will be added to your bill. Tipping is at diners' discretion, but 10 percent is customary.
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Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
04 4530000
The Palm Jumeirah Enjoy a delicious Mother's Day lunch at Imperium. A selection of seven succulent roasts will be served alongside a hearty selection of traditional vegetables with all the trimmings amid palatial surroundings. From AED 275 per person, lunch is available on March 9 from 1 to 5pm.
Media Rotana Dubai
italian delights
04 3868111 Port Rashid
Famed chefs Marco Pierre White and Sanjeev Kapoor head up two of the three restaurants at this hotel. Azalya – International Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian Titanic by Marco Pierre White – European
04 3455888 Satwa
kempinski hotel & Residences, palm jumeirah
04 4442000
Dubai Marina Located on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, this luxurious property is home to a variety of high-end restaurants. Beachside Barbecue – Brasserie Brunello Restaurant – Italian K-West Bar – Wine bar
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina
04 3993333
Dubai Marina There is an exciting collection of new culinary concepts to try here including chic restaurant Latest Recipe which offers contemporary dishes from around the world. New Japanese restaurant Watatsumi is also a must try. Barasti – International Latest Recipe – International Watatsumi – Japanese Latitude Bar – Bar
le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa
04 3995555
Dubai Marina Home to a selection of bars and restaurants, including Ossigeno, which is well-known for its southern Italian menu. Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Maya – Mexican Bar Below – Wine bar Brasserie – International Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar
Media One Hotel
04 4271000
Dubai Media City The MED is a stylish yet relaxed Mediterranean eatery with an outdoor terrace boasting stunning views over the Palm Jumeirah. THE DEK on 8 – Terrace bar The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean
An unlimited buffet of Japanese specialities is on offer at Channels. Prices start at AED145 per person (excluding alcohol).
Melia Dubai
Jumeira Rotana Hotel
Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International
Al Barsha
Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar
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
Try some German flavours at Brauhaus with a selection of the country’s traditional dishes. From 6-8pm daily enjoy selected beverages from AED22.
04 4350000
Metropolitan Palace hotel
04 2270000 Deira
BiCE Restaurant For mouthwatering Italian dishes enjoy a meal at BiCE Restaurant. Its mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes make it a local hot spot. Try the classic Sicilian rigatoni or innovative dishes like lobster carpaccio. Location: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort Contact: 04 2182520 Andiamo Savour the taste of northern Italy at this chic restaurant specialising in pizzas, pastas and regional dishes. Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai Contact: 04 3172221 Bussola Dine amid lush gardens and with the option of an open air terrance, this Italian fine dining restaurant offers a memorable evening. Signature dishes include cured beef, risotto with crispy vegetables and a sumptuous seafood mixed grill. Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Contact: 04 5117391 Ossigeno For Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist it's worth visiting Ossigeno, one of Dubai's top Italian restaurants. Chic, contemporary surroundings add to the ambience. Location: Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa Contact: 04 3995555
A quaint, old-school hotel located in Deira. Al Shindagah – International Al Diwan – Lebanese Malate Bar & Restaurant – Filipino Sketch – Mediterranean
Millennium plaza Hotel dubai
04 3877777
Sheikh Zayed Road Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is located in the heart of the city. Drop into La Plaza for a spot of Mediteranean fare. La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar
Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah
04 3668888
Umm Suqeim The Wharf serves big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce for AED110 per person. The deal is available every Tuesday from 7pm. Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining The Wharf – British Zheng He's – Chinese
Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai
04 3366000 Bur Dubai
Savour great Italian food every Tuesday at The Fountain from 7 to 10.30pm from AED85 per person. Alternatively, head to Chutney's for a delicious curry or Fakhreldine for an array of tantalising Arabic dishes. Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Lebanese Pulse The Club – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International
Mövenpick Hotel Deira
04 4440111 Deira
Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this fivestar property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes. Jigsaw – International Spiritz – Bar Wok-In Restaurant– Pan Asian
Mövenpick Hotel IBN BATTUTA GATE
04 4440000 Jebel Ali
Join the Surf and Turf Night Brunch at Mistral every Thursday and Friday night. From 7 to 11.30pm for AED249 including free-flowing house wine and beer or AED 190 with soft drinks. Mistral – Arabic Al Bahou – Brunch buffet Sicilia – Italian Shanghai Chic – Chinese Moroc Bar – Moroccan lounge Chor Bazaar – Indian
Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach
04 4498888
Jumeirah Beach Residence Enjoy the Great Sunday Roast at The Talk Restaurant & Lounge with live carving stations, seafood and meat grills and Europe’s favourites for dessert to finish. This relaxing venue also boasts stunning views out to the Gulf in a warm ambience. Every Sunday from 6.30 to 11pm. Priced from AED165 per person including buffet and soft beverages The Talk Restaurant & Lounge – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar
Novotel World Trade Centre
04 3320000
Trade Centre Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers. You may also like to pay a visit to Entre Nous for fine fare from all corners of the globe. Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International
Oasis Beach Tower
04 3994444
Jumeirah Beach Residence Enjoy a delicious brunch every Friday at Thyme Restaurant. From 12.30 to 3pm, prices start at AED140 per person. For a true taste of Italy, don't miss a mouth-watering meal at Frankie's. There is also a taste of Japan at internationally renowned restaurant Wagamama or relax at Mai Tai where you can choose from a variety of refreshing cocktails. Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai – Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house
In the know
Alcohol is permitted in several emirates in the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Nevertheless, residents and visitors are expected to drink discreetly as it is illegal for Muslims to consume liquor. Drinking on the street is strictly prohibited and anyone found heavily intoxicated in public outside a licensed venue risks arrest and a fine. The UAE operates a zero tolerance policy on drink-driving and it is punishable with a fine and, in more serious cases, imprisonment.
One&Only Royal Mirage
04 3999999 Al Sufouh
One of Dubai's most elegant properties, One&Only Royal Mirage houses restaurants such as Beach Bar & Grill and Celebrities. It is also home to Eau Zone, considered one of the most romantic eateries in the emirate. Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eauzone – Far Eastern Kasbar – Nightclub Nina – International Olives – International The Jetty – Beach Bar The Roof Top Lounge – Bar The Rotisserie – International Tagine – Moroccan
One&Only The Palm, dubai
04 4401010
The Palm Jumeirah Try the delicious lobster lunch at 1O1 Dining Lounge and Bar. This stunning venue offers sumptuous dishes and incredible vistas. Lobster lunch starts from AED390 per person. Or enjoy tapas and sangria at 1O1 Dining Lounge and Bar from AED 390 per person. 101 Dining Lounge and Bar – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern
Park Hyatt Dubai
04 6021234 Garhoud
Traiteur serves the finest French cuisine in a stunning setting complete with show kitchen to watch the talented chefs at work. Cafe Arabesque - Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French
Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek
04 2227171 Deira
For a dining experience with a difference, try Fish Market with views of Deira Creek and select your own fresh fish and seafood, all cooked to order with a delicious selection of sauces as an accompaniment. Sample quality Chinese cuisine prepared by master chefs at The China Club where you can choose to dine in either the elegant dining room or art-filled private room. Boulvar – International Fish Market – Seafood Ku-Bu – Cocktail Bar La Moda – Italian Marbles – Lobby bar Minato – Japanese Palm Grill – Steakhouse Shabestan – Iranian Sumibiya – Asian The China Club – Chinese The Pub – English Up On The 10th – Jazz Bar Yum – Noodle bar
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown
04 4502000
Downtown Dubai Located on the upper floors of a mixed-use building close to the thriving Business Bay district, this new property has excellent views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City
04 3669111
Dubai Media City Enjoy authentic Italian dishes at Certo or relax in the al fresco setting of Tamanya Terrace. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar
radisson royal hotel dubai
04 3080000
Sheikh Zayed Road Dine on an array of delicious Asian and Arabian dishes as well as international favourites while enjoying the stunning panoramic views at any of this hotel’s four restaurants. Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indo Thai Asian Restaurant – Asian
Raffles Dubai
04 3248888 Oud Metha
Head to Azur every Friday for a classic British roast. Comprising roasted meats, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing and gravy, the lunch is priced at AED200. Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar Fire & Ice – Steakhouse People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Tomo – Japanese
Ramada plaza Jumeirah Beach
04 4398888
Jumeirah Beach Residence This hotel, located in Jumeirah Beach Residence is home to the city's first Brazilian restaurant and well worth a visit. Shores – International Fogueira –Brazilian
Rixos the palm dubai
04 4575555
Palm Jumeirah Rixos The Palm Dubai is home to Chef’s Steak House Restaurant, a firm favourite with meat lovers in Dubai. A la Turca – International Chef's Steak House Restaurant – Steak House Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Italian
Rose Rayhaan by Rotana
04 3230111
Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC Sample creative dishes from around the world at Petals. Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International
Shangri-La Hotel Dubai
04 3438888
Sheikh Zayed Road Marrakech will be celebrating different regions of Morrocco on Thursdays with an extensive buffet featuring tasty specialties and live cooking stations. Priced at Dhs 210 per person excluding beverages. Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese
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T A ST E/THE GUIDE
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Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
The Address Dubai Marina
Deira
Dubai Marina
04 2281111
This time-honoured spot has become a firm favourite with returning visitors who wish to experience a touch of 'old' Dubai. Head to Creekside, which is well known for its (yup, you've guessed it), Creekside views, for a tasty seafood buffet. A rich assortment of local fish prepared in a variety of ways is available for AED175 per person. Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers
04 3995533
Dubai Marina Visit Peacock for delicious Chinese cuisine. Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International Peacock – Chinese
Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach
04 4484848
Dubai Marina Unwind with your family at AOC French Brassiere’s Friday BBQ brunch. Sit out on the terrace by the beach and sample the lavish buffet which includes a wide selection of seafood and sushi with entertainment at live cooking stations. From 1 to 4pm. From AED220 including soft beverages. AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar
Taj Palace Hotel
04 2232222 Deira
Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali accompanied by live music. Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic Verdi – Italian
The Address Downtown Dubai
04 4368888
Downtown Dubai Enjoy the authentic taste of China at award-winning restaurant Hukama. Or take in stunning views of the Dubai skyline from chic bar Neos. Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood
The Address Dubai Mall
04 4388888
Downtown Dubai Every Tuesday from 7 to 11pm diners can enjoy a five-course tasting menu at Ember Grill and Lounge for AED295 per person. Cabana – Lounge Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
04 4238888
04 3994141
Dubai Marina
Mazina’s popular family brunch offers a delicious Easter themed international buffet featuring seasonal stuffed lamb shoulder and plenty of entertainment for children. Available on March 16 from 12:30 to 3:30pm. Priced from AED 220 including soft beverages. Children six years and under enjoy complimentary meals.
Enjoy fine Italian fare at Bussola with a two course lunch just AED110 per person from Sunday to Thursday. Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai
Towers Rotana Dubai
Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean
10
04 3438000
Sheikh Zayed Road For British fare at its best head to Flavours on Two every Tuesday for Flavours from Britain. For AED179 expect classic Brit dishes with selected beverages.
The Address Montgomerie Dubai
04 3905600
Emirates Hills Embark on a journey of flavours at Nineteen and enjoy a specially prepared four-course meal like never before - in complete darkness. Enjoy a welcome drink before being escorted to the pitch-black dining room where different textures create an explosion of flavour. Dine from 7 to 10pm on March 23. The evening is priced from AED 495, inclusive of welcome drink and selected house beverages.
Flavours on Two – International Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International
AQUARA
04 3627934
Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy spectacular views over Dubai Marina. at.mosphere
04 8883828 Burj Khalifa
04 3666197
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar also serves British food . carluccio's
04 3216111
04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728
Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet.
Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment.
Sheikh Zayed Road
Moka Café – All-day dining
Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience.
This stylish bar is located in the heart of the city.
BarZar
villa rotana
Meydan
Al Murooj Rotana
Deira
Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International
04 3813333
050 2464555
The world's 'Highest Restaurant from Ground Level'.
The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style.
The Meydan
Alegra
Traders Hotel Dubai
04 2659888
Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International
Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house Shiba – Asian
City dining
The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre
cavalli club
04 332960
Fairmont Dubai A chic nightspot that attracts a trendy late-night crowd.
ARABIC TASTE
9&10. Hukama, The Address Downtown Dubai 11. Lobby Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai
The Palace Downtown Dubai
04 4287888
Downtown Dubai
Hummous: Well known and loved even beyond the Middle East, this Arabic dip or spread is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with ground sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic.
Take in breath-taking views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa while you enjoy delicious Thai cooking at Thiptara. Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai
04 3994000
Moutabel: This is a delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine.
Dubai Marina For afternoon tea, book a table at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, prices start at AED125 per person. Amaseena – Arabic Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian
the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre
04 3722222 DIFC
Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Barbecue Night. Prices start at AED240 per person. Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar
Centimetro
04 3666730
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. Chi’Zen
04 2329077, 04 3549288 Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates
First-class Cantonese cuisine and amazing views. Rivington Grill
04 4230903, 04 3666464 Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day. The Mango Tree
04 4267313
Souk Al Bahar
Fattoush: This Levantine salad is made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread and mixed with lettuce, cucumber, onion and other vegetables.
Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while overlooking Burj Khalifa.
Sambusek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach.
04 3881400
Ushna
04 3686506
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor and excellent cuisine. VIP ROOM JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Dubai's hottest new clubbing venue. West 14th
04 4477601
The Palm Jumeirah Expect succulent steaks at this New York grill and bar.
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{
my dubai Lucy d’Arbo, communications executive and Dubai veteran, shares her city highlights to help visitors plan a perfect trip
}
1
My family has been living in Dubai since 1982. I was born in London, but arrived here when I was four years old. The city was so much smaller then and I had an amazingly fun and peaceful childhood. We lived in Jumeirah behind the zoo which we loved. Much of the area was still desert at that time and we even had camels eating from our dustbin outside while people gave directions by the number of palm trees not street numbers. Of course in 2013 it is a completely different place, a modern and cosmopolitan city. Looking back I feel I have grown up with Dubai. I love the dynamic pace of the city and its diversity. There is so much choice on my doorstep whether it is for work at communications firm Dabo & Co where I organise some of Dubai’s most iconic events, such as the launch of the world’s tallest hotel the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai in February, or having fun with my kids taking them skiing, swimming in the sea or to the desert to go camping. I absolutely love going down to the Creek and into the souks for the real
history and heritage of Dubai. The Creek is an amazing place to sit and people watch. You can see the dhows stocking up and shipping out to ply their trade for the day. When I’m not working, I love to spend time with friends and family. We enjoy eating out and trying new places or going back to our favourite haunts. Baker and Spice in Souk Al Bahar is a great spot for breakfast. Their organic produce and stunning location overlooking Burj Khalifa is a great combination. A trip to Safa Park is always a favourite. It is an amazing green oasis in the middle of the city where the kids can ride their bikes and the grown-ups can lie under a tree and read a book and then enjoy a picnic. Italian eatery Medzo at Wafi Mall is one of my favourite Dubai restaurants. We have been going there for years and the food is always tremendous. We sit outside on the terrace imagining we’re in Italy as we eat fresh, homemade pasta. The Rib Room at Jumeirah Emirates Towers is also excellent because it has the best Beef Wellington in town.
I love the dynamic pace of the city and its diversity. There is so much choice on my doorstep
1 Dubai Creek 2 Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates
When friends and family come to Dubai, we make sure they see Burj Khalifa, visit Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates and, of course, take them to the Dubai Creek. Shopping is also another must-do in Dubai with a fantastic choice available. I enjoy Mirdif City Centre mall as it has all the great international brands and fantastic restaurants without being too crowded. At the end of a busy day to relax and enjoy a few drinks, I would recommend The Tomatini cocktail at French restaurant La Petite Maison in Dubai International Financial Centre. It is something you really can’t imagine until you have tried it, trust me!
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TOURBILLON SQUELETTE
Majestic - OfďŹ cial Agent:
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