Concierge Dubai Magazine, May 2013 by npimedia fz llc

May 2013 | issue 105

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 May 2013 | issue 105

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MAY 2013 / Issue 105 / Dubai Edition

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Welcome to Concierge

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

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Dubai is known the world over as the destination for unparalleled luxury. Visitors to the emirate can expect extraordinary experiences and exceptional levels of service during their stay. That extra-special touch comes from a desire to surpass expectations and achieve excellence. This ethos also shines through in the many success stories to be found here in Dubai, from the talented people behind prestigious brands who ensure the highest levels of quality to stunning feats of architectural design. This five-star attitude is further exemplified by an endless array of world-class hotels and resorts standing ready to attend to every need. Step into a world where the truly remarkable becomes part of the everyday, here in Dubai. Celebrate a special moment in time with luxury Swiss watchmaker JaegerLeCoultre, this year marking 180 years in the industry. Turn to page 22 to discover the humble beginnings of this dynamic brand which has led the way in excellent timepiece design down the decades. The luxury continues on page 30 with our feature on the VIP shopping experiences to be had here in Dubai from flying in the latest collections direct from the catwalks of Europe to chauffeur-driven limousine experiences offering the last word in retail therapy. Explore one of Dubai’s best kept secrets, the buzzing artistic hub of Al Quoz, on page 56. In an industrial area akin to the hip cultural enclaves of New York and Paris, like-minded individuals share a passion for the arts. Make memories that last a lifetime with our guide, on page 66, to the many amazing family days out to be had across Dubai. Or become a water baby on page 74 with Concierge’s guide to the ultimate in sea life. Turn to page 88 to ensure a vintage evening at one of the city’s gourmet eateries where a mouthwatering meal is enhanced at an elegant wine-pairing dinner. Navigate Dubai in style with Concierge’s new map, a beautiful illustrated guide to the city. Enjoy your visit and the very best Dubai has to offer with Concierge.

In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh Location: Majid Alyousef workshop, Dubai

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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The ancient art of calligraphy is one of the UAE’s most treasured traditions. Fine examples of the stunning script can be seen throughout the country in mosques, interiors, documentation and presented as pieces of art in their own right. Majid Alyousef is one of the country’s greatest calligraphers and as such is keeping this important art form alive.

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Contents MAY 2013 / Issue 105

12 Essentials

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

18/Snapshot

Traditional charm meets contemporary chic at Madinat Jumeirah

Shop 22/New beginnings

Celebrate with Jaeger-LeCoultre as the luxury timepiece creator marks 180 years in the business

30/Something special in store

Prepare to be treated like retail royalty during a VIP shopping trip, Dubai style

38/Hands of time Discover the art of precious watchmaking

Discover

46/Labour of love Meet the skilled craftsmen of the UAE’s dhow-building trade

48/Vessels of history

Marvel at majestic dhows as they prepare to set sail

56/Culture Club Enter Dubai’s vibrant creative community

62/Tourist trail Embark on a desert adventure

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Contents MAY 2013 / Issue 105

Experience 66/A family affair

Memories are made at a host of Dubai’s exciting family attractions

74/Just add water

Dive into Dubai’s water world for a memorable marine encounter

Taste 82/Dining dynasty

Savour a sumptuous Chinese feast at one of the city’s many eastern eateries

88/Wine and dine

Raise a glass to the latest trend on Dubai’s dining scene, wine-pairing dinners

93 The guide 116/My Dubai

Mahmoud Tannir, UAE Sportbike champion, shares his Dubai highlights

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Brought to you in association with

Essentials

MAY

E X PER I E NCE The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride

Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest attraction brilliantly blends both the historic and modern sides of the city. Take a journey back in time on an abra (traditional boat) and cruise the 30-acre Burj Lake for an extraordinary view of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest building Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride offers visitors stunning new vistas of the lake and its surrounding iconic sights. From The Dubai Mall to The Dubai Fountain there are plenty of remarkable photographic opportunities to be had. Boat rides take place in the evenings, at 30-minute intervals in between the fountain shows. When: Saturday to Thursday 5.45 to 11.15pm. Where: Downtown Dubai How much: AED65 per person Contact: burjkhalifa.ae

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D I S C OV E R Art Exhibition

Dubai boasts an incredible selection of galleries hosting artists from around the globe. The recently opened Alif Art Gallery is celebrating Central Asian work with its presentation of stunning pieces from Rima Gagloeva. Hailing from the Republic of Uzbekistan, Gagloeva’s childhood in a tribal village lends swathes of bright colour to her vibrant work which is influenced by the Ossetian mountains and landscapes of her youth. This talented artist is a regular participant in national and international exhibitions, including solo shows in Russia, Ossetia, Bulgaria and Switzerland. When: Until May 22 Where: Damac Park Tower, DIFC How much: Free Contact: alifartgallery.ae

EVENTS IN BRIEF J u m e i r a h R e s ta u r a n t W e e k This unique dining concept returns for a second year and sees some of Dubai’s finest restaurants and bars showcase the city’s world-class gastronomic status. Enjoy a three-course set menu at 38 participating restaurants in outstanding venues such as Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. When: May 23 to June 1 Contact: jumeirah.com

UR B AN C IR C US

TA S T E Brunch

Indulge in one of Dubai’s great culinary traditions, a Friday brunch. This gastronomic extravaganza marks the first day of the UAE weekend and is a chance to enjoy the finest food, drinks and company. Tempting tables are laden with the finest cuisines from around the world as chefs take to live cooking stations to create a sumptuous storm. The Address Downtown Dubai’s chic venue Calabar lends some Latin inspiration to brunching. Its Suave & Sophisticated Brunch presents a mouth-watering selection of South American dishes. Fresh flavours from ceviche and oysters to tacos and quesadillas bring the authentic taste of the region to Dubai. Live entertainment from a three-piece Latino trio tops off the eclectic ambience. Where: The Address Downtown Dubai When: Fridays, from 12 to 4pm How much: From AED 290 per person including soft beverages, AED425 per person including house beverages Contact: 04 8883444

Prepare to be amazed at this extraordinary international variety show. High-octane performances include acrobatics, aerial acts, music, dance and comedy. This is a fun-packed experience for all the family to enjoy. When: May 23 to 25 Where: Madinat Theatre, Souk Madinat Jumeirah How much: From AED185 per person Contact: madinattheatre.com

THE MANS O O R B IN M O HAMME D P H O T O G RA P H Y AWAR D This unique award was launched in 2010 with the aim of developing and supporting skilled photographers in the UAE. Since then, this inspirational competition has discovered and showcased an array of promising local talent. Now in its fourth edition, this year’s theme is Emirati Coasts, documenting marine life in the UAE. The awards ceremony, where winners will be selected from a range of categories such as still life, people portraits and landscapes, will be held at Madinat Jumeirah’s Joharah Ballroom. It’s a chance to view this selection of portraits, each providing a unique record of the nation’s rich heritage, culture and identity. When: May 8 How much: Admission free Contact: photosaward.com

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D I S C OV E R

Ask the concierge S h a n S h a n G u, c o n c i e r g e at At l a n t i s T h e Pa l m , Dubai, gives her expert r e c o m m e n dat i o n s f o r a w o n d e r f u l s tay i n t h e c i t y

Dubai is a remarkable destination with many breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. One of the best vistas is an aerial view of Palm Jumeirah, the largest manmade island in the world. A helicopter tour is a wonderful way to take in the unforgettable panoramas. Coming back down to earth and a speed boat tour of Palm Jumeirah and The World islands is another fantastic experience. Downtown Dubai also boasts major attractions not to be missed such as The Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest dancing fountain and the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa. I also recommend a visit to Dolphin Bay at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai where visitors can get up close with these incredible creatures. Another major attraction Dubai has to offer is shopping. Being home to the world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall, visitors are spoilt for choice. Aside from the best in retail therapy, there is a host of exciting adventures to be had and one of the most exhilirating is undoubtedly skydiving. A variety of companies are on hand to make sure you are fully prepared for this thrilling activity, which promises some of the best views to be found anywhere in the world. For some exciting nightlife head to N’Dulge club at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai for a luxurious clubbing experience while Cavalli Club at the Fairmont Dubai is another of the city’s most popular venues. For breathtaking views as you sip refreshing cocktails, head to The Jetty Lounge at One&Only Royal Mirage. Wonderful photograph opportunities are to be had at almost every turn. Dubai Creek, with the souks and old Dubai in the background, is a great place for some truly unique snapshots.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital Falcons hold an important place in UAE heritage. Back when the country was little more than arid desert, local tribes relied heavily on their tamed falcons to help them hunt for food. Today, they are prized as pets rather than hunters, but still retain their value as representatives of UAE culture. Visitors can get up close to these majestic birds at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Guided tours are held around the falconry museum, the free-flight aviary and examination room. Where: Sweihan Road, near the airport. When: Sunday to Thursday 10am to 2.30pm. How much: From 170 AED per person Contact: 02 5755155

E X PER I E NCE Arabian Travel Market

This enjoyable market is the most popular annual travel and tourism event in the region. Destinations from the Middle East and around the world are showcased while a diverse range of accommodation options, breathtaking tourism attractions and new airline routes are presented. Where: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre When: May 6 to 9 How much: Free entry for pre-registered trade visitors and AED100 on the door for non-registered visitors.

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LOOKING AHEAD M o d e s h W o r l d 2 013

June to August Modhesh World is the destination for family entertainment throughout the summer in Dubai. Located at Dubai World Trade Centre, this is the largest indoor entertainment venue in the Middle East. Modhesh World offers a multitude of activities to cater to tots, children and teens with 40 themed zones offering everything from the latest video games to international cartoons, stage shows and a 4D cinema. This exciting venue has welcomed more than five million visitors since it first opened its doors in 2000. Contact: dubaievents.ae

SHOP Montblanc

A stunning selection of fountain pens, handcrafted leather wallets, bracelets and cufflinks are just some of the exceptional pieces showcased in Montblanc’s 2013 Signature For Good collection. The chic range of accessories and stationery also benefit an extremely worthwhile cause. Joining forces with UNICEF, Montblanc aims to help in efforts to ensure all children have access to quality education. The special edition of writing instruments, jewellery and leather accessories feature a unique brick design symbolising the joint effort. Part of the proceeds raised from their sale will be donated to UNICEF to build schools in developing nations. The Montblanc 2013 Signature for Good collection is available at The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 4340300

D u b a i S u mm e r S u r p r i s e s June to July Now in its 16th year, the eagerly awaited shopping extravaganza sees the city come alive with a host of exciting events, entertainment, competitions and special offers. The retail festival has welcomed more than 22 million visitors from across the globe since its inception. Last year’s event saw 70 of the city’s malls take part in the month-long festival with over 6,000 stores participating and a staggering visitor spend of almost nine billion dirhams. The shopping sensation is one of the year’s highlights and sees visitors flock to the city in search of a plethora of purchases. Contact: dubaievents.ae

Michael McIntyre Live in Dubai June 7 to 8 Expect lots of laughs from this hit British comedian fresh from his UK tour where he played to over three quarters of a million people. McIntyre turns his wit on everyday situations. Last year the ever-popular comedian became the highest grossing in the world. Where: Dubai World Trade Centre How much: From AED250 Contact: doneevents.com

E X PER I E NCE A day at the spa

For the perfect end to a busy day spent taking in all of the wonderful attractions Dubai has to offer, enjoy a refreshing spa session. A host of luxury hotels and resorts stand ready to offer the finest in exclusive relaxation. Set amidst the tranquil waterways of Madinat Jumeirah, Talise Spa is a true oasis of rejuvenation. Choose from a variety of Signature Experiences, facials, massages and body treatments using the finest spa products. There is also a sauna, steam room and plunge pools to help make the most of your soothing session. Where: Madinat Jumeirah When: Daily 9am to 10pm Contact: 04 3666810

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New age

The traditional wind towers of Madinat Jumeirah form a striking contrast against the futuristic outlines of iconic Dubai structure Burj Al Arab. These neighbours occupy a wonderful shoreline space where the city’s social scene comes to life. A myriad of winding alleyways and canals lend Madinat Jumeirah a unique character. Visitors here enjoy the extraordinary views from some of the city’s finest restaurants, bars and al fresco cafés. This unique cluster of five-star hotels is one of the city’s most vibrant social spots. There’s a treasure trove of charming traditional buys to be had at Souk Madinat Jumeirah where visitors can also take in a performance at the Madinat Theatre. Meanwhile, family adventures abound at Wild Wadi water park located in the shade of the world-famous hotel Burj Al Arab where unparalleled luxury awaits. 18

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

S NA P S HOT

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Shop Dolce & Gabbana

Inspired by traditional Sicilian motifs, a striking colour palette defines the SSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;13 collection from Dolce & Gabbana. Beautifully detailed prints reflect bright beach hues in burnt orange sunset shades and aqua blues. Exquisite handcraftsmanship sees intricate embroidery on skirts and dresses in double-satin organza. Dolce & Gabbana is available at The Dubai Mall. Contact: 04 3308566

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New beginnings This year marks a major milestone for Jaeger-LeCoultre as the legendary Swiss watchmaker celebrates its 180th anniversary The year is 1833 and a gifted artisan toils in a small Swiss workshop dedicating each day to mastering the art of fine timepiece design. Entirely self-taught, the discipline and vision of this talented craftsman sees him forge ahead in the world of watchmaking to create a company that is truly ahead of its time. Antoine LeCoultre learned metallurgy in his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forge and, with his father, invented new alloys and vibrating blades in music boxes, all the while, edging closer to what he called his original plan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; gathering the skills to make a complete watch movement. A gifted inventor, he created the Millionometer in 1844, the first instrument able to measure the micron, one-millionth of a metre or one-thousandth of a millimetre. In 1847, his pivoting winding device was the first system for winding the watch and setting its time without the use of a key. LeCoultreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive and ambition earned a succession of firsts in the field followed by hundreds of global patents for the company he set up.

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W A T CHE S / s hop

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LeCoultre’s small workshop in the village of Le Sentier in the Vallée de Joux grew so fast it became known locally as the Grande Maison. In 1888, seven years after Antoine’s death records show LeCoultre’s son Elie was carrying on his father’s pioneering work with around 500 watchmakers and technicians at the maison. Typically, at this time, watch manufacture had been dispersed among hundreds of artisans spread across different areas, but Antoine and Elie had brought the entire process under a single roof. The result was an extraordinary pool of watchmaking

talent working together for the first time. The development of this Grande Maison brought with it incredible results. From the 1890s onwards, what became the Jaeger-LeCoultre Manufacture began producing a series of Grandes Complications. These were incredibly intricate timepieces that were to become the hallmark of this dynamic company. Comprising three major horological complications, the manufacture successfully produced a perpetual calendar mechanism to display the date, a chronograph boasting both timekeeping and stopwatch capabilities and an ingenious minute repeater to audibly chime each minute. In 1903, an interesting challenge presented itself. Paris-based Edmond Jaeger charged Swiss manufacturers with the task of producing the ultra-thin watch movements he had invented. Antoine’s grandson, Jacques-David LeCoultre, responded and, in doing so, a world-famous partnership with Edmond Jaeger was born. The pair collaborated on one of the first collections of ultra-thin watches that included the thinnest watch in the world. Building on the decades of success that followed, the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand was formed in 1937. Over the past 180 years, Jaeger-LeCoultre has created and produced over 1,200 different calibres and filed more than 400 patents. Legendary watches have

1 Gem setting work (previous page) 2 Atmos Clock 1928 3 Jérôme Lambert 4 Jaeger-LeCoultre boutique in Paris

Legendary watches have made their mark on watchmaking history including the Reverso, Memovox and Atmos clock, while the Calibre 101 in 1929 remains the world’s smallest mechanical watch movement

made their mark on watchmaking history including the Reverso, Duoplan, Memovox and Atmos clock, while the Calibre 101 in 1929 remains the world’s smallest mechanical watch movement. “One of the defining characteristics of Jaeger-LeCoultre is the manufacture, a concept that Antoine LeCoultre created,” says Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO Jérôme Lambert. “The brand keeps its core integrity by maintaining the number of patents it records and the number of movements it develops. All that production is still under one roof at the Vallée de Joux in Switzerland. In the Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3, which is part of the jubilee collection, there are more than 3,900 operations on the watch itself, which shows the level of craftsmanship and we started work on it four years ago.” “Another defining characteristic of Jaeger-LeCoultre is inventiveness,”continues Lambert. “This is linked to the fact that our founder was an inventor himself and we have a mix of different craftsmanship

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styles under one roof, which definitely creates something different. When you take the time to discover the details of the watches, the quality of the decoration and the craftsmanship inside, you definitely enjoy them more,” says Lambert. The firm has created the special jubilee collection as a tribute to the founder. “We wanted a sense of our founder within the watch, in tribute to Antoine, bridging the traditional and the contemporary,” says Lambert. “Through Antoine LeCoultre’s first concept of manufacture, we have created a business model and a way of organising fine watchmaking that is still the master of the craft in Switzerland today. This original idea has allowed us to really develop fine timepiece design while being resilient through all that has happened down the decades,” he adds. Looking to the future of the iconic brand, Lambert, who joined the firm in 1997, says: “We want to continue to respond to the needs of fine watchmaking around the world and it is also very important for us to continue to create a real proximity with the community in which we are developing our brand. “We will be back as partners at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival this year which is very important to us as we want to be more and more present in the world of cinema, connecting with communities.”

These days, an expert team of 1,800 people works within the manufacture in Switzerland where the rooftops have multiplied to become a sprawling complex. Here, artisans hone their craft following in the footsteps of Antoine LeCoultre himself. The innovations continue and, since 2000, the manufacture has created 75 new calibres, including grandes complications, tourbillons, minute repeaters, chronographs and perpetual calendars. From complicated models to high-jewellery creations, LeCoultre’s extraordinary legacy ensures the company he founded not only prospered for well over a century, but continues to lead the way in international haute horology.

5 Gyrotourbillon 3 Jubilee 6 Enamelling 7 Edmond Jaeger 8 Antoine LeCoultre

Duoplan Created in 1925, this watch responded to the fashion of the time for extremely small wrist watches. Its genius was that the timepiece retained reliability often lost in the miniature models of the day. Duoplan’s movement was built on two levels to improve functionality. The watch was also one of the first gem-set steel watches ever made, making it an extremely desirable piece.

Atmos

Presented in 1928, the first prototype of the Atmos clock caused a considerable stir among the world’s media as it appeared to achieve perpetual motion. It was the skill of Jaeger-LeCoultre watchmakers that successfully turned this invention from prototype to clock. The Atmos draws its energy from the smallest changes in temperature. A one-degree fluctuation is enough to drive it for two days and it consumes 60 million times less energy than a 15-watt electric light bulb. Its stunning design means is as impressive today as it was 85 years ago.

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Hommage à Antoine LeCoultre Collection In tribute to the brilliance of its founder, this selection features a collection of three watches. The Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3 Jubilee boasts a flying tourbillon which is a special type of construction that removes the bridge allowing an unobstructed view of the spinning tourbillon mechanism. Meanwhile, the aluminium carriage of the Gyrotourbillon has undergone a surface treatment that enhances its ability to reflect light. The Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Cylindrique à Quantième Perpétuel Jubilee has a new automatic winding mechanical movement, Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 985.

9 Jaeger-LeCoultre archives 10 Millionometer 11 Enamelling work 12 Art Deco design, Joaillerie 1011938

This sees the tourbillon equipped with a cylindrical balance-spring. A new extrawhite platinum case draws inspiration from the classic pocket watch style. An array of design details reflect the same theme with hour markers, a traditional minute circle and a silver-toned grained dial finish. Finally, the Master Ultra Thin Jubilee is the thinnest mechanical manual winding watch in the world. At just 4.05 millimetres thick, it sets a new record. Its ultra-thin case, in extra-white platinum, measures just 39 millimetres in diameter. In a nod to the 180 th anniversary of the manufacture, the date 1833 is placed beneath the logo as a special commemorative touch.

The Master Ultra Thin Jubilee is the thinnest mechanical manual winding watch in the world. At just 4.05 millimetres thick, it sets a new record. Its ultra-thin case measures just 39 millimetres in diameter

Calibre 101 Timeline

In 1929, Calibre 101 set a new record as the world’s smallest mechanical watch movement. At 14 millimetres long, 4.8 millimetres wide and 3.4 millimetres thick, Calibre 101 still holds the record as the smallest mechanical watch movement ever made. Once assembled and hand-finished, its 74 initial constituent parts weigh barely one gram.

Reverso A key date in Jaeger-LeCoultre history is 1931 which marked the birth of the Reverso watch. During a trip to India a distributor of JaegerLeCoultre watches was challenged by polo enthusiasts to create a watch capable of withstanding hard knocks sustained during the game. The idea was taken to Jacques-David LeCoultre and this heralded the birth of the Reverso. The name, inspired by the Latin phrase ‘I turn around’, gives a hint to its ingenious design. In one quick motion, the wearer can swivel the case in its carrier to protect the watch glass. The Reverso was an instant success.

1730 LeCoultre forge is established 1833 Founding of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Manufacture by Antoine LeCoultre 1844 Invention of the Millionometer 1847 Invention of the pivoting winding mechanism

1858 Elie LeCoultre helps his father Antoine 1866 A new building:

LeCoultre becomes the first manufacture in the Vallée de Joux 1890 The first grande complication models 1903 Jacques-David LeCoultre meets Edmond Jaeger 1937 Official birth of the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand 2007 Opening of the Heritage Gallery 2013 Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates its 180 th anniversary

Memovox With a name literally meaning ‘voice of memory’, this practical yet stylish watch came with an alarm to help the owner keep track of daily life, such as key appointments or timetables. In 1956, the Memovox line was enhanced by a world-first model, driven by the Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 815 and combining the alarm function with automatic winding. Three years later, this calibre equipped the Memovox Deep Sea, which was the first diver’s automatic alarm watch.

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Something special in store Indulge in the ultimate retail therapy with a VIP shopping experience in Dubai, where luxury is limitless

A chauffeur-driven limousine whisks you to some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most extravagant shopping destinations where exclusive collections have been flown in from the catwalks of Milan and Paris especially for you. On arrival at your pick of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internationally renowned malls, a personal shopper immediately ushers you to a private room where a carefully considered consultation is carried out to build a picture of your personal style. Once a bespoke shopping list has been crafted, your dedicated team of specialists ensures every item is available to try and buy. Only when your every shopping whim has been indulged is it time to round off the retail extravaganza with a soothing spa treatment and gourmet meal to finish the day in a happy haze. This is VIP shopping, Dubai style.

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High-end labels and Dubai go hand in hand. Known the world over as the destination for prestige purchasing, the city boasts the finest in shopping experiences and is fast overtaking New York, Hong Kong and Paris as the world’s premier retail locale. The Dubai Mall is a testament to Dubai’s outstanding shopping credentials. The world’s largest retail space is peppered with high-end brands. Around ever corner is another designer store or chic boutique. Mall of the Emirates is a sprawling shopping palace which is also

high on the list for shoppers in search of the exclusive buy. The world’s leading brands are also represented here in this plush space. Meanwhile retail destinations such as BurJuman and The Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers are a paradise for luxury label aficionados. Whether it’s providing bespoke style advice, procuring the latest must-have designer items or offering a matchless luxury experience, the shopping havens of Dubai stand ready to welcome the discerning shopper. Responding to the increasing demand for a VIP experience, a host of prestigious stores and lifestyle consultancies now offer a range of tailored personal shopping packages in Dubai. Meeting the needs of a high-end clientele, from flying in the latest fashions to chauffeurdriven transportation, Dubai-based Fame Lifestyle ensures each shopping experience is unique. “We shop for exclusive, rare items and luxury brands for our clients. Our team of experienced personal shoppers source unique or limited collections. We gather everything from stunning Cartier jewellery pieces to the latest Louis Vuitton bags straight from the runway.

Responding to the increasing demand for a VIP experience, a host of prestigious stores and lifestyle consultancies now offer a range of tailored personal shopping packages in Dubai

1 level Shoe District, The Dubai Mall (previous page) 2 Kelly Lundberg

“We have early access to new arrivals from our clients’ favourite designer brands to find for example just the right Burberry bag. We can also shop on behalf of clients who might not have time and can offer shopping from a private room if preferred. From a chauffeur-driven limousine to after-hours shopping for clients, there is no experience we can’t deliver,” says Kenny Onilogbo, chief concierge specialist at Fame Lifestyle. Established in 2007 with a team of around 50 personal and luxury shoppers, the company goes the extra mile for its clients also arranging gourmet dining, spa treatments, styling services and city tours. “During the initial consultation, we meet with the client to discuss their preferences. Our team has a strong network and collaborates with high-end stores and boutiques where we can offer discounts in some cases to clients. Dubai is a shoppers’ paradise and we are here to help clients make the most of that,” says Onilogbo. With such an incredible array of retail choices to be made in Dubai, fashion maven Kelly Lundberg of StyleMe Divine, helps visitors plan their shopping schedules. “Dubai offers one of the most diverse

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shopping experiences of any city in the world. The choice can be overwhelming particularly when visitors are only passing through, which is why having a personal shopper makes all the difference,” says Lundberg. Having styled for the Grammys, Brit Awards and Dubai Film Festival, her team are well-versed in helping source preferred pieces. Each Divine Shopping experience lasts four hours and accommodates up to four people with various packages starting from AED2,700. “With more than 50 malls to choose from, we show you the places best suited to your needs from designer stores to quirky boutiques. I maintain a small but dedicated team who stay up to date with the latest fashions. I am also constantly on the lookout for new and exciting labels. My first choice is always The Dubai Mall. I love Fashion Avenue, the Chanel store there is one of the biggest in the region and level Shoe District is a must for any shoe lover. Mall of the Emirates is also a firm favourite. The Prada store there is very popular with our clientele. Harvey Nichols offers a good choice of modern designers for both men and women. For

3 Harvey Nichols Dubai Personal Shopping Suite 4 Harvey Nichols Dubai 5 The Dubai Mall 6 Erdem at Harvey Nichols 7 Dolce & Gabbana at Harvey Nichols

a leisurely shopping experience I love BurJuman. Hermès there is always a must-see store and clients enjoy everything that Saks Fifth Avenue has to offer. Shopping in this city has truly become a multi -cultural experience with beautiful malls, excellent customer service and a reputation for offering the ultimate in luxury,” says Lundberg. Luxury department store Harvey Nichols Dubai also caters to a VIP client base from its prime location at Mall of the Emirates. “Harvey Nichols distinguishes itself in every aspect of luxury retail, be it merchandise, the retail environment, the shopping experience, visual merchandising or exclusive offers. Storewide, from our sales team, buyers, marketing and visual merchandisers, we strive to accommodate the many nationalities that visit Harvey Nichols Dubai. The commonality between our customers is that they are well-travelled, discerning, with sophisticated tastes and always seeking the most exclusive merchandise,” says Harvey Nichols Dubai general manager Tanya Atkinson.

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Bespoke personal shopping experiences are a speciality at the store and to ensure a world-class selection of brands to choose from, Harvey Nichols’ buyers secure the latest runway fashions and must-have brands. “Dubai is ranked as one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world, synonymous with not only the luxury goods available but also the luxurious environment in which to shop. Our buyers ensure that Harvey Nichols Dubai offers the finest brands for our customers. Since opening, we have introduced a myriad of brands to the region. We also launch the latest collections simultaneously with leading fashion cities around the world. The Personal Shopping suites for men and women are designed to create an intimate shopping experience. Our professional team gets to know the clients, their personality, lifestyle, favourite designers and shopping habits to understand what outcome they would like from their appointment. Customers are welcome to make any request for specific brands available in-store and the personal shopping team can tailor-make a service for them by identifying their client’s body type and choosing the best cuts and fabrics for them. Each client can spend the day at the Personal Shopping suite, be pampered

V I P C O N TA C T S Fame Lifestyle: famelifestyleme.com StyleMe Divine: stylemedivine.com Harvey Nichols Dubai: harveynichols.com

Dubai is ranked as one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world, synonymous with not only the luxury goods available but also the luxurious environment in which to shop 8 The Dubai Mall 9 Tanya Atkinson 10 Fame Lifestyle luxury shopping 10

and rejuvenated at our Profile Salons and complete their day with dinner at the mall’s award-winning African restaurant Almaz by Momo,” says Atkinson. Luxury Swiss watch manufacturer, Jaeger-LeCoultre places a similar emphasis on establishing a close bond with its customers. From its stunning boutique in The Dubai Mall, a special service for Dubai clients is offered. “What we try to do here is what we call ‘experiencing time in its different dimensions’. Our collections all represent time in different ways such as the military repeater which sings the time. “An experience at the store is very multisensorial as we take clients into the world of fine watchmaking. We also offer a bespoke service where watches can be personalised. A client can come into the boutique with their drawing or design and we can finalise the project. The Reverso in particular is a good watch for personalisation as it has a solid back case,” says Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO Jérôme Lambert. Brand director Renaud Pretet adds: “We greet members personally in our boutiques and our CEO has regular gatherings with them when he travels the world.”

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REPOSSI.COM

Hands of time Gifted artisans pour their time and talent into crafting each extraordinary piece in a high-jewellery watch collection

Much more than simply a marker of time, a beautifully designed high-jewellery watch is truly a piece to treasure. These remarkable creations embody the creative energy of many specialist craftsmen who invest incredible efforts in each mechanical masterpiece which has been carefully considered with themes planned years in advance. Perfectly polished diamonds lend a stellar setting to a host of precious gems from pearls to sapphires. Intricately engraved dials are accentuated with miniature painted motifs and hand-crafted embellishments as decorative hands complete the elaborate design. Straps of fine leather or precious metals extend from sleek cases that hide complicated sets of mechanisms tucked inside. Many months in the making and born from a fusion of expertise and passion, a high-jewellery watch blurs the lines between art and technicality. Occupying a unique space between the worlds of fine jewellery and timepieces, highjewellery watch creations leave pure functionality far behind. In 1868, Patek Phillipe invented the first wrist watch. This was initially intended to be a decorative jewellery piece for women, as pocket watches were deemed largely a male preserve. World War I changed that dynamic and saw the pocket watch transcended by the new timepieces in response to the need of soldiers to have an accessible watch that allowed hands to be free. Over the decades great strides in watchmaking have resulted in a striking combination of functionality and design to create iconic collections.

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Chaumet Attrape-Moi Si Tu M’aimes Luxury French jeweller Chaumet collaborated with Swiss master craftsmen to create this stunning collection for 2013. Artistic decorative skills are applied to each piece combining jewellery excellence with high-end watchmaking. Chaumet’s creative complication watches, presented in the Attrape-Moi Si Tu M’aimes collection, centre around the concept of fleeting time and our efforts to catch it. This precious watch boasts a spectacular dial decorated with the Maison’s iconic bee and spider mounted on two offcentred rails. Gone are traditional hands which are instead replaced by an exquisite pink gold spider to mark each hour while a diamond-studded bee signals minutes with the tip of a wing. This innovative automatic mechanical movement, developed exclusively for Chaumet, links fine aesthetics with sophisticated techniques. Diamond-set indexes in the bezel mark minutes, while 12 pink gold hour indicators provide a beautiful contrast. The dial is adorned with 43 mother-of-pearl elements representing a spider’s web that is highlighted by a sprinkling of brilliant-cut diamonds. The collection is completed by six more unique timepieces, each showcasing an incredible range of design skills from miniature painting and enamelling to engraving. Diamonds, mother of pearl and China ink are just some of the magnificent materials incorporated within this charming collection.

1 Bar Rafaeli wears Piaget Dancer Skeleton (previous page) 2 & 3 Chaumet Attrape-Moi Si Tu M’aimes 4 Chaumet gem setting 5 Chaumet miniature painting 6 Piaget Dancer Skeleton 2

Gone are traditional hands which are replaced by an exquisite pink gold spider to mark each hour while a diamond-studded bee signals minutes with the tip of a wing Piaget Dancer Skeleton

This stunning watch, part of Piaget’s Exceptional Pieces collection, portrays a wonderful harmony between true aesthetics and mechanical excellence. Its innovative complication lives up to Piaget’s near 140-year legacy of high-precision technology in watchmaking. Masters of ultra-thin timepiece design, Piaget have created the world’s thinnest gem-set mechanical watch in the Dancer Skeleton model. Cast in exquisite 18-carat white gold, its slim case is a perfect match for the precise gem setting carried out by the steady hands of the Swiss jeweller’s craftsmen. Located in two sites in Switzerland, La Côte-aux-Fées in the Neuchâtel Jura region and Plan-les-Ouates near Geneva, skilled

specialists spent an incredible 700 hours developing this exceptional watch and a further 325 hours on its gem setting. Around 1,194 brilliant- and baguette-cut diamonds, totalling approximately 31.8 carats, sparkle on this model which beats to the rhythm of Calibre 838D. The result is spectacular transparency as the movement, set with 219 brilliant-cut diamonds and eight black sapphires, appears to float. The chic bracelet is set in white gold with 277 brilliant-cut and 488 baguette-cut diamonds. Its caseback is of sapphire crystal. Five unique models form the Exceptional Pieces collection released in limited editions and featuring highly original settings, magnificent stones and bold designs that successfully twin watch and jewellery making expertise.

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Breguet Marie-Antoinette Dentelle 7

French Queen Marie Antoinette was a loyal customer of founder Abraham-Louis Breguet. As a result, the queen’s majestic style has influenced creations from the jewellery house down the decades. The Marie-Antoinette Dentelle watch is a tribute to the monarch’s love of fashion and, in particular, lace. The watch is imbued with a lace-inspired decoration set with 70 brilliant-cut diamonds following the curve of the case. Sparkling gems continue onto the mother-of-pearl dial. Attached to the case at 6 o’clock is an oval ruby of 1.2 carats. A winding crown at 3 o’clock set with a briolette diamond adds the finishing touch to the lace decoration. The clasp is paved with 26 brilliant-cut diamonds while the watch itself is encrusted with more than 174 diamonds totalling about 2.69 carats spread over the case, the case band and dial. The strap, a watered red satin with a Breguet folding clasp, is paved with 26 brilliant-cut diamonds.

Blancpain Le Brassus Minute Repeater Carrousel This innovative piece represents the ease with which stunning detail and decorative touches can be incorporated into gents’ luxury timepieces. Set in a case of 18-carat red gold, this watch not only boasts a chic and contemporary look, but is an excellent example of Blancpain’s technical expertise. The collection is centred on Blancpain’s Carrousel mechanism which places its balance wheel in the centre of the carriage, controlling rotation speed and neutralising gravity’s effects for optimum accuracy. Combining complications, this watch also boasts the rich tones of the cathedral gong minute repeater. The red gold movement bridges and main plate are individually hand-engraved while the dial is in white Grand Feu enamel. The combination of an opened dial cente and sapphire case back allows a view of the complex minute repeater mechanism and hand carving of the movement bridges. A series of six centrepiece watches aimed at collectors make up this special series.

Bulgari Bulgari 7 Coil Serpenti Watch Marking a stunning feat in both design and technical prowess is this extraordinary timepiece from the legendary Bulgari design house. Set in yellow gold and diamonds, the high-jewellery watch

W H E R E T O B U Y: CHAUMET: chaumet.com Available at The Dubai Mall, 04 3627500 PIAGET: piaget.com Available at The Dubai Mall BREGUET: breguet.com Available at Rivoli boutiques, 04 3765000 BLANCPAIN: blancpain.com Available at The Dubai Mall and BurJuman, 04 3514477 BULGARI: bulgari.com Available at The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, 04 3772000

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can be made up to five metres long and is intended to be worn along the forearm. The curved and polished case houses a Swiss quartz movement custom-made for Bulgari. The dial has a sunburst finish and features 190 embedded diamonds alongside 38 brilliant-cut diamonds around the bezel. A special crown is set with a rubellite gemstone. The timepiece combines master jewellery craftsmanship techniques, such as enamelling and goldsmithing, with meticulous Swiss watchmaking techniques. To assure its tight fit, the ‘braid’ undergoes a lengthy set of operations by hand before being finally assembled.

7 Breguet Marie-Antoinette Dentelle 8 Marie Antoinette 9 Blancpain Le Brassus Minute Repeater Carrousel 10 Back view of Le Brassus Minute Repeater Carrousel 11 Bulgari 7 Coil Serpenti Watch

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Every turn brings adventure, every ripple a new discovery.

Mangroves - Sir Bani Yas Island

Here, shimmering waters call the explorer. A fascinating playground is revealed. The amazing is shared with those closest to you. And nothing matters but the golden hours of the day. An endless horizon beckons. And you think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done it all? Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.

Discover more. www.visitabudhabi.ae

Discover Fashion photog raphy

Designer and photographer Karl Lagerfeld turns his lens on international icons in a stunning set of portraits showcased in exhibition The Little Black Jacket: Chanelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Classic Revisited. Among those featured are Keira Knightley and Charlotte Casiraghi (pictured). When: Until May 11 Where: The Venue, Downtown Dubai Contact: thelittleblackjacket.chanel.com

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Labour of love Dhow building is a time-honoured tradition in the UAE, underpinned by centuries of skill and expertise handed down from father to son

A dedicated craftsman crouches beneath the great hull of a wooden ship, shaping and smoothing each plank until it takes on exactly the right form. No plans have been drawn: instead the dhow is realised through a combination of inherent skill and expert knowledge handed down the generations. Slowly months of hard work and diligent attention to detail begin to pay off as the dhow takes shape. Much of the endeavour is conducted with traditional tools and method, meaning the entire exercise

requires a great deal of patience and a steady hand. Finally, the labour of love is ready to take to the waves, shaped by the hands of many skilled artisans who have painstakingly hammered and honed every rivet and wooden plank into place. For most, the majestic sight of dhows plying glittering waterways such as Dubai Creek and the capital’s Mina Zayed Port is a welcome reminder of days gone by and deep-rooted traditions that reaffirm the country’s long-lasting connection to the sea. For centuries, the traditional wooden boats were relied upon to keep the bustling ports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi afloat as they serviced busy markets and facilitated the export and import of a wide range of produce. The boats not only carried local wares for sale across oceans to India, China and East Africa, they also returned to port laden with fish to eat. During the summer months, these versatile vessels also played a central role in the pearl diving trade which was at the time the mainstay of the country’s economy. The boats sailed out to the Gulf’s oyster banks where brave divers plunged into the waters to retrieve the precious pearls.

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“I was raised by watching my father and grandfather working on dhows, it became part of my life. Dhows are still so important to trading in the UAE” These extraordinary boats, once the lifeblood of the nation, are still used today to ferry produce by a new generation of dhow builders. “I was raised by watching my father and grandfather working on dhows and it became part of my life. Dhows are still so important to trading in the UAE. When I was old enough, I started building dhows alongside my brother,” says local dhow builder Huraiz bin Touq. Materials for these grand vessels were originally imported from surrounding countries. Teak for the keel and masts

was brought from India, rope came from Zanzibar while sail canvas was sourced from Bahrain and Kuwait. Nowadays wood comes from Malaysia, India, or Pakistan while iron and pins are available in Dubai. Traditional tools of the dhow-building trade were simple aids, such as a hammer, saw, chisel and plane. Modern dhows are now driven by engines instead of sails, but their heritage still shines through in the shape of hulls and distinctive triangular sails called lateens. In an effort to protect the traditions of the past,

dhow-building is still carried out in a manner faithful to early techniques. “You should have good experience in this industry. From five to seven years, depending on the size of the dhow. We do not work from drawings at all. Instead we start the dhow with temporary wood cuts and then substitute them with permanent wood pieces. This procedure works better because it gives you an idea of how the dhow will look rather than trying to imagine it from drawings. We have around 20 workers in our dhow-building teams. One group works on cutting the wood, another on the design templates and the rest work on melting the iron to join with the wood,” says Huraiz who is currently working on a dhow he believes will be the UAE’s largest. Dhows continue to ply regular trade routes to and from the UAE and take centre stage at a host of dhow-racing events held across the country each year. The skills of both dhow builders and sailors are showcased at prestigious competitions such as the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race held in Dubai in May. Pristine sails billow in the wind as hundreds of majestic dhows slice through the waves in the stunning spectacle watched by thousands. Just like his father and grandfather, Huraiz has dedicated his life to the art of dhow building. Many months of tireless toil pay off when the magnificent boats finally take to the waves and the satisfied boat builders look on with a sense of pride that is shared by the generations before them.

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Vessels of history Discover the highly skilled craft of dhow building and embark on a fascinating voyage through time with Concierge photographer, Adham Sneeh

PHOT O E S S A Y/ DIS COVE R

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Dhow-building traditions are kept alive throughout the UAE in areas such as Bateen shipyard in Abu Dhabi and around the edges of Dubai Creek at Al Jaddaf where teams of skilled dhow builders can be seen hard at work shaping the elegant vessels

A large dhow can take up to a year to build, while a smaller boat takes from one to four months to complete. Dhows have different names depending on the shapes of their hulls, such as Baghlah, a large deep-sea dhow with an ornately carved stern, or the Boum which is a medium-sized boat with a tapered stern and two masts. The Shasha, one of the oldest and most popular dhows, is smaller in size, capable of carrying a maximum of two people and used primarily for fishing

In echoes of the past, craftsmen still use basic tools to hammer and plane great teak planks to fit the boatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frame in preparation for the dhowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maiden voyage

The early technique used in boat building, known as 'al qalafa' in Arabic, saw craftsmen tie wooden planks together using palm tree rope. As the trade developed, nails eventually replaced rope to bind the wooden planks

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Much of the traditional dhow-building method has been retained down the decades, passed on from one generation to the next

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Culture club Be inspired by Al Quoz, a cutting-edge cultural cluster where Dubai’s burgeoning art scene comes to life Amid Dubai’s many world-famous attractions lies a largely unexplored artistic quarter where understated industrial units belie a vibrant cultural scene waiting to be discovered. The city’s Al Quoz area is often overlooked by visitors unaware that such an engaging enclave exists. Brimming with art galleries, museum and studios, this creative space has grown in recent years to become Dubai’s main cultural hub. Artists gather here to present work and exchange ideas at around 20 galleries which represent an eclectic mix of international styles and genres. Situated halfway between major Dubai attractions Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina, the area’s vibrant mix of local and international art reflects the inspirational melting pot that the city itself has become. In addition to a host of galleries presenting impressive exhibition offerings from around the world this lively cultural community also offers workshops, events and installations. A focal point of the artistic activity is Alserkal Avenue which occupies a one block radius and is made up of a myriad of interconnected back streets where a new gallery greets you on every corner. Renowned exhibition spaces such as Carbon 12 Dubai, Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde and Green Art Gallery call Alserkal Avenue home while the area also boasts the first private museum in the area, Salsali Private Museum where a vibrant body of work attracts art scene figures and visitors who soak up the inspirational atmosphere. Concierge presents a selection of some of the most innovative galleries which are well worth a visit during any trip to Dubai.

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La Galerie Nationale This elegant gallery specialises in original art furniture from top 20th century designers. With 20 years of experience in France and Europe, the Al Serkal Avenue gallery is its UAE branch. Among an array of remarkable pieces on display in this unique space are items from legendary Italian designers Pierre Cardin and Piero Alessandrini. Art, sculpture, lighting, seating and tables are among the plethora of interiors pieces on show. French interiors master Louis Durot is also represented here. This year, the gallery is promoting 20th century design alongside contemporary works. Central to the new designers featured will be locally based designer Fadi Sarieddine and Albanian Helidon Xhixha, best known for experimenting with Murano glass and stainless steel. Xhixha concentrates on capturing the light by folding and turning the steel to create specific reflections. Works by acclaimed Iraqi artist and ceramic designer Sarmad Al-Mussawi are also on show here.

Where: Al Quoz, Dubai When: Saturday to Thursday, 10am to 7pm How much: Admission free / Contact: 04 3804652

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The Weight of Speed by Shawki Youssef (previous page) Library by Helidon Xhixha Spirale Armchair by Louis Durot Pebble Console by Fadi Sarieddine 5 Ramin Salsali

Salsali Private Museum As the first private museum for contemporary art in the region, this venue provides a key platform for new and established collectors. The museum was founded by Iranian art enthusiast Ramin Salsali in 2011, who started his collection at the age of 21. More than 600 works in the museum span painting, photography, video art, sculpture and installation. Ramin says: “I grew up in Iran and my mother used to take me to visit the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art. These visits had a huge impact on me. Dubai has become a hub for international and regional art. The Alserkal Avenue community is supportive of each other and the arts hub we are all trying to create. The Al Quoz art scene is completely organic. Like industrial areas of London and New York that have developed into thriving art districts, so too has Al Quoz. The area offers a different side to Dubai that many visitors don’t see. This month’s exhibition features critically acclaimed Iranian artist Reza Derakshani. Renowned for richly textured canvases, Derakshani draws inspiration from his Iranian heritage. Where: Al Quoz, Dubai When: Derakshani exhibition until July 9 5

How much: Admission free Contact: 04 3809600

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DIS C O VER/ A L QUO Z

Carbon 12 Dubai Specialising in mostly European contemporary art, this cutting-edge gallery first opened its doors in 2008. The following year, the gallery moved from its home in Dubai Marina to Al Quoz’s Alserkal Avenue. Carbon 12 Dubai has hosted more than 31 exhibitions and represents its artists at a string of international art shows. Aiming to foster up-and-coming contemporary artists, the gallery’s recent showcases have included Swiss born artist and photographer Olaf Breuning known for his edgy portraits and New York based expressionist artist Katherine Bernhardt. Austrian abstract artist Thierry Feuz who is famed for colourful kaleidoscopic work has also been featured here. This month, the gallery is presenting the latest work from Austrian photographer and painter Philip Mueller. “Currently Al Quoz is the most relevant contemporary art hub in the Middle Eastern region, hosting a number of top galleries and representing the most relevant artists in the region. Carbon 12 was the first gallery

e n j oy t h e a r t s c e n e

The third line

This month the vibrant gallery presents a stunning exhibition of paintings from Lebanese artist Shawki Youssef. The solo show, entitled Acid Fields, showcases the artist’s unique talents until May 5.. Contact: 04 3411367 GALLERY ISABELLE VAN DEN EYNDE

Launched in 2006, this is one of the leading contemporary art galleries in the Middle East, committed to nurturing emerging talent Contact: 04 3235052

in the region to provide a comprehensive program, the impact of such an international and comprehensive program on the entire UAE art scene has been crucial, specifically for the maturity of the contemporary art scene,” says Carbon 12 founder and director Kourosh Nouri. Where: Al Quoz, Dubai When: Mueller exhibition, May 8 to June 10 How much: Admission free / Contact: 04 3406016

6 Carbon 12 Dubai 7 Katherine Bernhardt exhibition at Carbon 12 Dubai 8 Body as Space Separation by Shawki Youssef

The impact of such an international and comprehensive program on the entire UAE art scene has been crucial, specifically for the maturity of the contemporary art scene

Green Art Gallery

This influential gallery is credited with the development of a host of major modern Arab artists in the region. Established in 1995, the gallery underwent a shift in direction in 2008 to offer a curatorial programme of contemporary artists using all media from the Middle East, North Africa, South East Asia, Turkey and beyond. One recurring theme is artists who rely heavily on research-based practice. The work of Iranian contemporary artist Kamrooz Aram is among recent contemporary offerings. His painting and drawings, often in the abstract, carry

modern cultural and political references. The gallery is currently presenting the work of talented Palestinian artist Shadih Habib Allah, until May 5. This month, the gallery also presents a stunning exhibition of paintings from Lebanese artist Shawki Youssef. The solo show, entitled Acid Fields, showcases the artist’s investigation of body representation in contemporary painting working predominantly on paper, but also on canvas. Where: Al Quoz, Dubai When: Youssef exhibition from May 6 to June 6 How much: Admission free / Contact: 04 3469305

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Sun, scene and sand Rediscover Dubai’s desert roots with a trip to the dunes for an unforgettable adventure Not so long ago, Dubai was recognisable more for its sweeping desert landscapes than the modern metropolis it is today. Gleaming high-rise towers have pushed back the once great swathes of sand which now form caramel shores around the city. For any visitor seeking an exhilarating day out, a trip into the desert is an itinerary essential. From high-octane activities such as dune bashing and sand boarding to enjoying traditional music and food beneath a canopy of stars, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this eclectic experience.

There are a host of companies primed and ready to escort visitors out to the desert for a once in a lifetime experience. Guests simply book a trip and are then conveniently collected from their accommodation. Then it’s time to sit back and take in awe-inspiring sights as the drive sees Dubai’s iconic skyline fade into the distance and the sandy hues of majestic desert dunes come into view. Keep your camera at the ready for a plethora of photograph opportunities as camel caravans dissect the desert landscape and the setting sun casts golden hues across the land. The first stop on most tours is at a camel farm offering the chance to get up close and personal with these unique creatures. On arrival at a desert campsite, there are a range of exciting new experiences to try from animal encounters to cultural performances and thrilling drives. Try a camel ride across the sands for a glimpse of the traditional Bedouin life that underpins much of the UAE’s culture and customs. There is also the opportunity to have a beautifully detailed henna design on your hands and feet. This plant dye has been used in the UAE for centuries as a traditional way for local women to decorate their skin. Arabic henna features grand, floral patterns that easily wash off within a week. The dye comes from the leaves of the henna tree, which are dried and ground before water is then added to form a paste. Another insight into the UAE’s cultural origins is presented with a traditional belly dance. Its roots in the region are thought to come from two distinct contexts, as a social dance and as performance art. Often performed at social gatherings, the vibrant art form is performed beautifully against a night-time desert backdrop. A

D e s e r t c o n ta c t s : Oasis Palm Tourism: Contact: 04 2629993 Arabian Adventures: 04 3034888 Arabian Desert Tours: 04 2682880 Extreme Adventure Dubai: 04 2340812 Royal Arabian Tours: 04 2999339

selection of traditional food and drinks are also often on offer during a desert trip with Arabic coffee, dates a buffet dinner and barbecue all on the menu. It’s also a nice opportunity to sit around the campfire and relax with some shisha(flavoured tobacco) as you enjoy a stellar spot of stargazing. For those seeking to turn up the heat on a desert adventure, there are plenty of activities to get your pulse racing. Dune bashing is the country’s unofficial sport which sees daring drivers take to the great mountains of sand in all manner of vehicles from 4x4s to customised cars and buggies. The aim is to power to the top of towering dunes before careering down the sandy slopes at top speeds. Take it down a notch by enjoying a ride over the smaller hills while you watch the locals slalom their way across the desert peaks. There’s still more fun to be had on a dune buggy adventure. Riders set off in the single-seater 840cc buggies following the natural trail of the dunes, setting your own speed for some off-road exploring. Or try your hand at the latest sporting craze, sand boarding. Similar to snow boarding, this sees riders sweep down dunes while standing with both feet strapped to a board for an incredible desert experience. Whether it’s soaking up the region’s culture or opting for high-octane thrills, join a desert safari for special memories and a glimpse into another side of Dubai.

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The Best of Italian Fur Brands Dubai UAE , Po Box 211485, JBR The Walk tel .: +97144541338 www.prfurs.com

Experience Ocean life

Marvel at a myriad of marine wonders at this stunning aquatic attraction. Shoals of brightly-coloured fish and elegant rays are just some of the amazing species on display. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is also currently showcasing 15 shark species in a special exhibit until May 15. Where: The Dubai Mall How much: From AED55 Contact: 04 4485200

A family affair From making a splash at a water park to an alpine-style session on the slopes, forge memories to last a lifetime at one of Dubai’s outstanding family attractions

A family holiday is a treasured time when memories are made and photo albums filled. It offers the chance to spend quality time together as the busy schedules of everyday life are left behind. The key to a harmonious holiday lies in striking a balance between action-packed itineraries suited to children and the more relaxed type of break most often favoured by adults. The sheer scope of activities Dubai has to offer means there is something to keep the whole family entertained. Whether it’s lapping up the thrills and spills of world-famous water parks, enjoying magical encounters with marine life or taking to the slopes for a skiing session, there’s something to suit every taste. There are even attractions that tie in educational opportunities to give children an experience that is not only fun but is also enriching. Simply being immersed in the UAE’s rich culture and heritage is in itself an experience for any family to cherish. With a wealth of entertaining attractions to choose from, Concierge presents a selection of the best activities for some unforgettable family moments.

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F AM I LY A CT I V I T I E S / E XP E R IE NCE

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Aquaventure This sprawling water park is Dubai’s largest and offers over 42 acres of exhilarating family fun. Found within Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Aquaventure is a must on any trip. Slides, rides and splashes abound at every corner of this fivestar park. Splashers play area is ideal for young children and has climbing frames, slides, water cannons and tipping buckets for hours of entertainment. The Torrent River gives a pleasant ride through a lush landscape while The Plunger offers twists and turns as it propels riders along

with water jet blasts. Thrillseekers have plenty of adrenalin-pumping experiences to excite such as The Rapids which is a white-knuckle ring-ride for all ages or the Shark Attack slide through a shark-filled lagoon. The truly courageous can dive into the Leap Of Faith tunnel slide with its heart-stopping vertical drop of 27.5 metres. For those looking for some rest and relaxation there

are also plenty of serene spaces within the lush park where a 700-metre private pristine beach is just perfect for building sand castles and taking some time out. Where: Palm Jumeirah When: Daily, 10am to sunset How much: Adults AED225, children below 1.2 metres AED180 / Contact: 04 4260000

Make friends with the centre’s adorable snow penguins, as the colony of Gentoo and King Penguins enjoy a regular March of the Penguins which is free for visitors to enjoy Ski Dubai Take to the slopes for an alpine-style adventure, all without leaving the heart of Dubai. One of the emirate’s best known attractions, Ski Dubai brings a touch of St Moritz to Mall of the Emirates. The first indoor ski centre in the Middle East, Ski Dubai caters to all ages and abilities. Skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing are just some of the activities on offer at this winter wonderland which is covered with real snow all year round. You don’t have to be a professional skier to take part. There are five runs here that vary in difficulty from steep gradients to gentle beginners’ slopes. The Freestyle Zone is the perfect place for snowboarders to perfect their stunts. Or simply play in the snow in the sprawling 3,000 square metre Snow Park. Guests are offered the use of ski clothing and equipment

to ensure the day goes smoothly. Make friends with the centre’s adorable snow penguins, as the colony of Gentoo and King Penguins enjoy a regular March of the Penguins which is free for visitors to enjoy. There’s also the chance to experience a rare interaction with these remarkable birds at a Peng-Friend Encounter. Various packages are available, starting at AED145. Included is underwater viewing, interaction with at least two penguins and optional photographs with the birds. Wrap up your day with a warm drink at the Avalanche Café or enjoy a tasty bite at St Moritz Cafe at the entrance to Ski Dubai. Where: Mall of the Emirates When: Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 11pm, Friday 9 to 12am, Saturday 9am to 11pm How much: From AED130 / Contact: 04 4094000

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What s on at Manarat Al Saadiyat Visit Manarat Al Saadiyat, at the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi, to discover art and educational exhibitions, art talks, music and theatrical performances, Artscape interactive events and hands-on workshops for all ages.

May Programme Workshops

Exhibitions Birth of a Museum Eco Future The Saadiyat Story Talks 1 May 19:00 Muntada, presented by Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation 6 May 18:00 Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series conversation with James Rosenquist 7 May 18:00 Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series conversations with El Anatsui and Feng Mengbo 8 May 18:00 Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series conversations with Adel El-Siwi and Youssef Nabil 29 May 18:45 Louvre Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series, Looking East from West: Orientalist Art and Photography

4 May 10:00 Eco Future Kayaking Trip and Art Making Workshop

18 May 10:00 Birth of a Museum Adult Workshop: Moving Forms

4 May 13:00 Birth of a Museum Family Workshop: An Artful Afternoon Tea

22 May 17:00 Birth of a Museum Adult Workshop: Metal Etching

11 May 10:00 Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series Family Workshop

25 May 10:00 Birth of a Museum Children’s Workshop: Creatures Great and Small

11 May 12:00 Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series Family Workshop

25 May 10:00 Birth of a Museum Teen Workshop: Drawing Comics

11 May 14:00 Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series Adults and Teens Workshop

27 May 17:00 Birth of a Museum Children’s Workshop: Drawing Comics

15 May 13:00 Birth of a Museum Family Workshop: An Artful Afternoon Tea

27 May 17:00 Birth of a Museum Teen Workshop: Artistic Sketching Techniques

18 May 10:00 Birth of a Museum Children’s Workshop: Living Colour

Manarat Al Saadiyat is open daily 09:00 to 20:00 and entry is free. Some activities and exhibitions incur an entrance fee. Workshops and talks require prior registration, call +971 2 657 5800, email manaratalsaadiyat@tdic.ae, or visit saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae to register. Programme is subject to change, visit saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae or call +971 2 657 5800 for information. @SaadiyatCD

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Saadiyat Cultural District

SaadiyatCulturalDistrict

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EXPE R IENCE/FA MILY A CTIV ITIES

Wild Wadi Nestled between Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab is themed water park Wild Wadi. Designed in the style of a lost island oasis, the park is based on the journeys of a sailor named Juha. According to legend, Juha’s dhow was hit by a storm and washed up on an enchanted island where his family and crew created

the rides of Wild Wadi. A world of waterbased fun for all the family is offered in abundance here. Breaker’s Bay is one of the largest wave pools in the Middle East while Juha’s Journey is a long, lazy river gently carrying you off on a relaxing ride. Flood River increases the tempo with surges of water that create high waves and rapids. For even more excitement, The Master Blasters are a complex of rubber-ring rides and slides that even go uphill while the Wipeout and Riptide flowriders create an artificial breaking wave perfect for learning how to bodyboard or kneeboard. For the really brave, a ride on the famous Jumeirah Sceirah awaits. This terrifying slide is the highest outside North America. Adventurous riders hurtle down the 33-metre drop at up to 80 kilometres per hour. Where: Umm Suqeim When: Daily 10am to 7pm How much: Adults AED225, children under 1.1metres AED175, under two years go free Contact: 04 3484444

Swim with dolphins For a once in-a-lifetime experience the family will never forget don’t miss the chance to swim with dolphins. The incredible interaction starts with a lesson about these gentle mammals which details the various ways expert trainers care for the dolphins. Then it’s time to take to the water and get close to these fascinating creatures in an exceptional encounter. The entire experience lasts around 90 minutes which includes 30

minutes in the water where visitors can kiss and hug the dolphins before a spot of swimming freely with the playful creatures. Visitors can also take a ride back to shore on a dolphin’s back. This unique day out promises to be an unforgettable and emotional experience for people of all ages. Where: Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai When: Daily, 10am to sunset How much: From AED395 / Contact: 04 4261030

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Far from being a fantasy land, this experience is a clever concept, which has seen KidZania team up with regional corporations and brands to reinforce social and educational teaching in the name of fun

KidZania Children can live out their dreams at this wonderful experience which combines entertainment with education. The KidZania concept originated in Mexico and has proved a huge success in the UAE. The premise is a city run by children (under discreet adult supervision) where aspiring juniors can sing like rock stars, direct movies and even perform â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;open-heart surgeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; if they wish. Every opportunity is available here from managing a hotel concierge desk to learning to fly a jumbo jet. Currently there are 80 different roles to choose from and far from being a fantasy land, this experience is a clever concept, which has seen KidZania team up with regional corporations and brands to reinforce social and educational teaching in the name of fun. The indoor theme park is a city built to scale for children complete with buildings, paved streets, vehicles, a functioning economy and recognisable destinations. The attraction is suited to children from the ages of four to 15. Those under 120 centimetres must be accompanied by an adult, but the adult is not allowed entry to the establishments inside the centre. Where: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai When: Sun to Wed 9am to 9pm, Thu 9am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 11pm How much: From AED95, free for under-twos / Contact: 04 4485222

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w at e r a ct i v i t i e s / E XPE R IE NCE

Blue skies, sparkling tranquil waters and over 80kilometres of coastline make Dubai the perfect place to find your sea legs and partake in a wide range of exciting water activities. Whether it’s thrills and spills or serene pursuits, there’s certainly something for everyone. With an ever-expanding population and increasing number of visitors, Dubai has become a hub for water sports and is home to many companies offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to get out on the sea. With years of experience and a deep commitment to safety as well as memorable experiences, anyone taking part is sure to have a fantastic time while learning a newfound skill.

Just add water Dive into Dubai’s crystal clear waters to discover a new wave of amazing aquatic adventures from yoga to kite surfing

Words by

C H A R L O T T E V A N D E N BRO U C Q U E

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Kite surfing Harnessing the power of the wind, kite surfers are pulled across the water on a surfboard by a parachute-type kite for a thrilling experience. Mostafa Al Hussaini from Dukite, a company that has been offering kite surfing in Dubai for the past seven years says that “spacious sandy beaches with plenty of room to learn and consistent light winds” makes Dubai a safe place to try your hand at the sport. The kite and board are tethered to the rider’s harness so the power of the wind is transferred to the body, leaving the arms stress free. Professionals use big gusts of wind to lift themselves out of the water and ride across the biggest waves. Mostafa adds: “Six to eight hours is usually sufficient training to be out on your own.” After which time riders can hire or buy their equipment from the Dukite shop.

Favourable weather, calm seas and protected water slopes between Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah beach front make Dubai the ideal place to get your water skis on

Diving – Al Boom Diving Get up close and personal with incredible flora and fauna of the deep blue sea by diving in Dubai’s plentiful waters. Whether you’re a complete beginner wanting to earn PADI qualification or an advanced diver with your own equipment, Dubai’s excellent diving centres are here to help. Al Boom Diving has been running in the emirate for the past 17 years and has grown to include five fully functioning dive centres including salt water training pools, 365 days a year training and the UAE’s only one-stop scuba shop. General manager of Al Boom, Colin Nelson, comments that on dives along the Dubai coastline participants are likely to see “all sorts of weird and wonderful creatures” including “angel fish, batfish, cuttlefish, sergeant majors, different coloured cowries, shoals of barracudas and small colourful dottybacks while stingrays can be seen resting in the sand”. He adds: “With five of our own dive centres we have access to the best dive sites the Emirates has to offer, from the enchanting wrecks of the Dubai coast to the flourishing coral reefs on the east coast.” Children as young as 10 can become certified Junior Open Water Divers and dive to a depth of 12 metres, so there’s fun to be had by all the family. Daredevils can also dive in the Dubai Mall Aquarium with the company of 400 sharks as well as stingrays and fish. With a plethora of activities to suit all ages and abilities, Dubai really is the place to hit the water and try something new.

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AT YAS WATERWORLD Every Thursday 8pm-12am from April 18

Live the ultimate water adventure

yaswaterworld.com +971 2 414 2000

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EXPE R IENCE/wa ter activ ities

Paddleboard yoga

C O N TA C T S

It’s not only high impact thrills and spills that can be had on the water. Popularised by many a lithe celebrity enjoying the sport of paddle boarding, Emily Brown has taken the trend a step further by introducing stand-up paddleboard yoga to Dubai. If twisting yourself into downward-facing dog on land just isn’t floating your boat any longer, then the challenge of keeping your balance whilst perched atop a paddleboard might just be the thing for you. Emily, the founder of SUP Yoga Dubai says: “Due to the unstable nature of the board your body has to work that much harder in maintaining balance so even though it is a low impact activity it is incredibly effective in improving your core strength and balance”. Beginners should, however, be prepared for the odd topple into the water. The gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore makes for a relaxing environment to practice this trendy new sport.

Bristol

Wakeboarding lessons take place all day out of Dubai Marina starting from AED800 for a one hour session on the boat for up to four people. Bristol also trust the largest charter fleet in the UAE including private boat cruises, game fishing, luxury yacht charters, traditional Arabian dhow cruises and sailing catamarans. See bristolcharters.com for more information or call 04 4309941. Dukite

Lessons run daily starting at 12pm on Jumeirah Beach from AED350 per hour per person. See dukite.com from more information or call 050

7586992/055 5289131. SUP Yoga Dubai

Lessons cost AED115 and take place on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8.30am from Barasti at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi. See supyogadubai.com for more information or call 050 9427240. Al Boom Diving

Open 365 days a year, Al Boom’s centralised booking centre is open from 8am-8pm weekdays and 8am-6pm on weekends. Prices start from AED150 for a quick dive in one of the saltwater training pools to AED2,350 for a PADI Open Water certification course. Certified divers can join dive trips starting from AED350 for two dives including equipment. The Al Boom one stop dive shop rent equipment and retail the latest in diving gear such as air and nitrox refills. See alboomdiving.com for more information or call 04 3422993.

Wake boarding There’s nothing like a sea breeze in your hair as you’re pulled along at an exhilarating pace behind a speedboat while balancing on a wake board. The instructors at Bristol Watersport Academy are more than pleased to share their skills and help even the most novice participant to find their feet. It can take a couple of tries to get the knack of pulling yourself out of the water to a standing position, but it’s well worth the learning curve. Yolanda Pohl, CEO of Bristol comments that as well as 365 days of favourable weather, “calm seas and protected water slopes between Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah beach front” make Dubai the ideal place to get your water skis on. This is the perfect activity for small groups, so when your legs begin to feel like jelly you can swap with someone else and enjoy some recovery time in the boat while the sun shines. Proficient wake boarders and keen spectators shouldn’t miss the Middle Eastern Water Ski and Wake Board Championships 2013 that will be hosted later this year in Dubai. This is not only an exciting opportunity to take part but also to view some of the world’s most talented water skiers and wake boarders in action.

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The China Club restaurant offers a traditional Yum Cha feast daily for lunch for Dhs 99 per person including free flow of flavored iced tea, soft beverages and Chinese tea. For information and bookings, please call 04-205 7333 or email: Infocenter.Dxbza@radissonblu.com Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

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Taste Blue Flame

Vibrant interiors offer a chic contemporary setting for the array of fresh flavours served at Jumeirah Creekside Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature restaurant, Blue Flame. The eclectic menu boasts local produce cooked to perfection on a charcoal grill. This dish of smoked salmon with pickled onion and apple and celeriac salad is served with tangy caper vinaigrette. Contact: 04 2308580

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Hukama, The Address Downtown Dubai

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C H I NE S E RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

Dining dynasty Let some of the finest Chinese restaurants in Dubai deliver on a delicious Eastern promise

Chinese food is known the world over for its tantalising flavours and enticing ingredients. From region to region, the nation boasts exceptionally diverse and vibrant cooking styles which offer an abundance of delicious dishes. From hot and spicy to sublimely sweet, there’s something to please every palate. Dynamic styles within this wonderful cooking tradition hail from China’s various provinces each rich in culture and unique characteristics. Dishes from Sichuan are famously hot and spicy, often making use of the particularly fiery Sichuan peppercorn. The Cantonese cooking style is possibly the most recognised world wide with dim sum and rice rolls taking centre stage. Offerings from the coastal region of Fujian feature a combination of seafood and woodland ingredients such as bamboo shoots and mushrooms. The centuries’ old cuisine boasts a long and illustrious past – the first act of many early emperors was to appoint a head chef to court. A key characteristic of the early cooking style was to extract maximum flavour from each and every ingredient and this discipline still defines dishes today. Chinese chefs are masters of intense flavour using seasonings such as garlic and ginger to add brilliant bursts to rice, meats and fish. In Dubai an impressive selection of restaurants is waiting to impress with servings of authentic dishes from across China. Contemporary flair meets local flavours in exceptional creations which remain faithful to traditional roots. Chic settings add to the experience where inspirations from the China of old and new are blended. Dine like an emperor at Concierge’s selection of the outstanding Chinese restaurants Dubai has to offer.

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t a st e /CHIN ESE REST A U RA NTS

Hukama If you’re looking for an upbeat and sophisticated environment where Chinese cuisine is cooked to perfection, Hukama fits the bill. After indulging in pre-dinner drinks at the bar, take a seat by one of the floor-to-ceiling windows, where spectacular views can be enjoyed of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Downtown Dubai. The menu is even more enticing than the views and we suggest you start with a delicious portion of chicken siew mai with fish roe and crystal prawn dumplings. For the main course try the wok-fried prawns and asparagus skewer with red onion

and chilli sauce. The baked honey cod with julienne capsicum in lime soya sauce is also an outstanding dish. The dessert menu is just as alluring and a top choice is the spiced chocolate fondant with strawberry jelly and vanilla ice cream. Succeeding in delicately blending contemporary cooking trends while respecting the preparation styles of provincial China, this charming restaurant offers a menu that is deliciously unique. Where: The Address Downtown Dubai When: Daily, 6 to 11.30pm How much: Set menu from AED388 Contact: 04 8883444

Hakkasan Bringing fresh flavours of the Orient to a Dubai clientele, this delicious gourmet restaurant boasts a contemporary feel. One of Jumeirah Emirates Towers’ signature restaurants, this international brand is popular with discerning diners. Its stunning outside terrace offers a wonderful al fresco space to enjoy fine Chinese cooking. The Ling-Ling lounge offers a casual retreat while VIP areas present chic privatedining options. Gastronomic treats to look forward to include Peking duck with Royal Beluga caviar, steamed dim sum platters and grilled wagyu beef with king soya sauce. Where: Jumeirah Emirates Towers When: Daily, 7pm to 1am How much: All-inclusive dim sum menu from AED288 / Contact: 04 3848484

Eauzone Hidden away in the secluded beauty of the One&Only Royal Mirage is Eauzone, a little piece of culinary paradise. Set on a lagoon-like pool this picturesque spot, with elegant evening lighting and a handful of flickering candles, is a draw for diners seeking to feast on gourmet pan-Asian fare. As is expected from one of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels, the service is second to none. From a shawl to warm the shoulders to a rare dessert that doesn’t appear on the menu, no request is too much. With exceptional service and setting, it’s no surprise that the menu follows suit. The finest Chinese fare

is served here, among the palm trees. Dishes such as hot and cold soup and pepper roasted duck breast offer an exciting take on traditional favourites. Sichuan aubergines with shitake mushrooms is a particular treat to savour. This eclectic eatery also boasts flavours from Thailand and Vietnam for a true taste of the Orient. The chef recommends spicy crusted sea bass served with seasoned baby vegetables and a sweet and sour mushroom sauce. Where: One&Only Royal Mirage When: Daily, 7pm to 11.30pm How much: Mains from AED128 Contact: 04 3999999

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Shang Palace Shangri-La Hotel Dubai’s signature restaurant Shang Palace showcases traditional Cantonese cuisine and provincial specialties in a chic, modern setting. Delicious dishes are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and presented beautifully. Creations are carefully designed to bring out the finest flavours and optimise the nutritional value of ingredients. Speciality dishes served here include Beijing duck and succulent wokfried beef tenderloin with black pepper sauce. Chef Kam’s Beijing duck is prepared to perfection and carved at the table served with pancakes, julienne vegetables and hoisin sauce. The restaurant’s special dim sum menu is another star attraction peppered with divine dumplings from delicate siew mai, steamed chicken dumplings with crab roe topping, to fresh feng yan prawn dumplings with tobiko fish roe. Bask in all the splendour of China at Shang Palace. Where: Shangri-La Hotel Dubai / When: 7 to 11.30pm How much: Beijing duck from AED360 / Contact: 04 4052703

With its rich colours and walls draped with antique silks and embroidered hangings, The China Club is a sophisticated reflection of traditional Chinese décor The China Club Whether guests opt for the elegant dining room or art-filled private room, The China Club leaves a lasting impression. An expert team in the kitchen consists of no less than 11 master chefs working to craft an impeccable á la carte menu. The restaurant features a traditional Yum Cha feast each day for lunch featuring an endless array of Chinese specialities.With its rich colours and walls draped with antique silks and embroidered hangings, The China Club is a sophisticated ref lection of traditional Chinese décor. A fine fusion of traditional and

modern China is presented with an array of mouthwatering dishes from the country’s provinces from Sichuan to Cantonese specialties. Private-dining cubicles create a wonderful secluded setting for business or romantic occasions. Signature dishes include traditional Peking duck and the sublime dragon roll with eel and cucumber wrapped in thinly sliced avocado. Where: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek When: 7.30 to 11.30pm How much: Mains from AED92 Contact: 04 2057033

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Wine and dine

From hilltop vineyard to the table of an exclusive restaurant, the journey of a fine wine is a fascinating one. As the sommelier presents the wine list, we are handed not only a selection of some of the world’s most exceptional vintages to choose from, but the chance to beautifully complement the meal before us. All it takes is a few sips from just the right bouquet to heighten the tastes of each dish. The flavours of a tender marbled steak are made all the more sublime when paired with a robust oak-aged red wine, while fresh seafood is wonderfully enhanced by the zesty notes of a clean, crisp white. Pairing a fine wine and delicious meal is undoubtedly one of the great joys in any gourmet dining experience. Looked upon as something of an art form, the careful consideration of subtle nuances such as the vintage, grape and body of a wine in relation to a particular meat or fish dish has become as essential a process as crafting the menu itself. Taking the time to peruse the wine list to choose from an array of international vintners can be as enjoyable as deciding which delicious dish to enjoy. The relationship between food and wine is centuries old. As a commonplace drink and accompaniment to food, wines often developed alongside the cuisine of a region taking on the particular characteristics of that area. Environment, soil, vegetation and climate all impact on wine production to give unique results. From the lush landscapes of France’s Bordeaux region, which have given birth to earthy full-bodied wines, to the crisp white Riesling varietals of Germany’s cooler Rhine region, there is a myriad of variants to choose from. Extraordinary levels of expertise, dedication and passion are poured into every glass of a fine wine. A great

collective talent and expert knowledge come together from the careful nurturing of grapes as they grow to harvesting, fermentation and ageing but the combination of specialist skills and centuries old winemaking traditions means wine appreciation has often been viewed as the preserve of the connoisseur. As a result, a wine list can at times seem a little intimidating, even for a seasoned epicurean. With a variety of vintages, grapes and regions to consider the choice can be overwhelming. Add to that the variations produced by pairing particular wines with different dishes and there is much to consider. Winepairing dinners present an excellent opportunity to learn a little about the vintages on offer, with the hard work of matching wines to meals already done. The concept sees a set menu, often a degustation listing of smaller taster courses, matched with appropriate wines. A wine waiter, sommelier or expert from the vineyards are often also on hand during these elegant evenings to offer advice and answer questions. In Dubai the finest restaurants have spent a great deal of time and effort to ensure wine lists are exceptional. From New World wines to vintage French Bordeaux, there is a variety to suit every palate. Wine dinners have become increasingly popular among Dubai’s discerning diners and are now offered by a range of exclusive restaurants. The evenings are a wonderful opportunity to gain a little insight into the fascinating world of wine while offering the chance to explore the varied flavours of a paired menu. Concierge presents a selection of the best wine-pairing dinners in Dubai where you can raise a glass to delicious food.

Savour a sumptuous winepairing dinner where gourmet meets grape for a truly vintage evening

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PA I RE D ME A L S / t a s t e

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The Ivy Combining one of the UAE’s great gastronomic traditions of brunch with a sumptuous wine-pairing menu is the gourmet Ivy Brunch. A signature eight-course degustation menu takes diners on a journey through a menu of classic dishes from this world-class British restaurant. Let a stunning selection of dishes and grape delight with combinations such as asparagus, goats cheese and beetroot salad served

with a crisp 2010 Pouilly-Fumé from the Domaine Rix wine house of the French Loire Valley. Dressed Dorset crab comes with a St Véran from Château de Fuissé from Burgundy, while a tender rack and shoulder of Welsh lamb is accentuated perfectly by a delicious Familia Zuccardi, Serie ‘Q’ Malbec from the Mendoza Valley in Argentina. The incredible menu is finished off by a dazzling duet of Twinkle sorbet paired with Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial NV. “We start with the dishes chosen by the chef and then try the wines to find a classic match. For example, with the asparagus and goats cheese salad with beetroot, we sampled wines from around the globe and finally settled on a French Pouilly-Fuméwhich complements the goats cheese perfectly. When choosing the wines to match food, we either try to find a marriage or we can challenge the food with a strongly opposing flavour. Generally we also consider the journey for our guests starting with lighter wines and building up to more full-bodied styles,” says Mirzo Hafizov, general manager of The Ivy. Where: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai When: Fridays from noon to 4pm How much: From AED495 Contact: 04 3198767

When choosing the wines to match food, we either try to find a marriage or we can challenge the food with a strongly opposing flavour. Generally we also consider the journey for our guests starting with lighter wines and building up to more full-bodied styles Traiteur This exceptional French restaurant will this month be hosting a delicious dinner featuring a fine selection of wines from the house of Pascal Jolivet. This winemaker is one of the youngest and most dynamic in the Loire Valley, France. This already renowned house specialises in noteable wines such as Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Pascal Jolivet produce an exciting range of wines such as ‘Attitude’ Sauvignon Blanc/Pinot Noir, Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé and ‘Exception’ Sancerre Blanc and Rouge. Traiteur’s sumptuous four-course dinner will be addressed by the renowned French vintner while the delicious menu on offer will be prepared by the restaurant’s talented chef de cuisine Chef Simon Wipf. Accompanied by the finest French wines, each has been carefully selected to beautifully enhance the flavours of the exquisitely prepared cuisine. Traiteur is one of Dubai’s most refined eateries and boasts an excellent reputation for producing some of the city’s finest French cuisine. Chic interiors provide a stunning setting to relax and enjoy this special menu, paired with some of the most exciting wines France has to offer. When: May 1, from 7pm / Where: Park Hyatt Dubai How much: AED 450 per person / Contact: 04 3172222

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PA I RE D ME A L S / t a s t e

table 9 by Nick & Scott One of Dubai’s most acclaimed restaurants, table 9 by Nick and Scott offers the chance to learn from the best in the business at their wine events. Not only is there a selection of wine-pairing dinners to choose from but the eatery also offers the chance to spend some time with sommelier Viktorija Paplauskiene. It’s a rare chance to glean insider information, hints and tips. Viktorija talks guests through a raft of wine terminology from colour and clarity to acidity and aroma. There are even insider tips for buying,

storing and serving wine and expert advice about food pairing. The first-class establishment is also hosting a series of wine dinners presented by this talented sommelier. Recent instalments have included a six course Champagne dinner and a Baron Philippe de Rothschild sixcourse fine wine-pairing dinner. When: Sommelier classes, Wednesdays and Fridays, 2 to 4pm Where: Hilton Dubai Creek How much: AED400 per person Contact: 04 2127551

L’Olivo Ristorante w i n e - pa i r i n g t i p s : Start by thinking about the dominant characteristics of the dish or meal as a whole, whether it’s mild or flavourful, rich or acidic. If in doubt, pair a dish with a wine from the same region. Match mild foods with mild wines. Similarly you generally want to match the richness of the food and the richness of the wine.

This elegant eatery offers authentic, homemade Italian cuisine served in a chic setting with striking views of Dubai’s skyline. Perched at the easternmost point on Palm Jumeirah, this gourmet offering at Rixos The Palm Dubai boasts fine Italian fare in a relaxed atmosphere. “All dishes are carefully prepared with fresh ingredients and attention to the creation of flavours, providing guests with a spectacular culinary journey into Italy,” says Italian chef de cuisine Salvatore. The fine food is complemented by an excellent selection of Italian wine. The restaurant also offers an exquisite fivecourse wine-pairing menu combining the finest ingredients and flavours with perfectly matched wines. Start with a delicious millefeuille of aubergine of sheep’s milk ricotta cheese, tomato basil and pecorino Romano fondue. The sumptuous serving is paired with a Gavi La Luciana Araldica 2011. For the main course savour a roll of red tuna loin in a crust of pistachios on creamed Bologna potatoes with a saffron jus. The dish is accentuated by a crisp Chardonnay IGT Campagnola 2011. For dessert, polish off a panna cotta with fruits of the forest and almond semifreddo served with chocolate fondant. Pair with a refreshing Prosecco di Valdobbiadene 2009 for mouthwatering results. Where: Rixos The Palm Dubai When: Daily, 7 to 11.30pm How much: AED500 per person Contact: 04 4575555

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

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

May 2013 | issue 105

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The guide shop / discover / experience / taste

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

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Shop

From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shoppers' dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

Though not a mall, this picturesque 1.7km-long beachside shopping promenade, is home to nearly 200 retailers including Boots, Boutique One, Zadig et Voltaire and Aiyanna of London. The views are also stunning.

Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 4361000

Spread over four levels, the mall is home to 160 stores dedicated to fashion, jewellery and home furnishings with waterfront dining and a children’s area.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

IBN BATTUTA MALL

04 3621900

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am

to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

04 4099000

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

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

Downtown Dubai BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

LAMCY PLAZA

04 3359999

A mix of brands caters to the needs of the entire family with stores such as Bhs, Camaeiu, The Body Shop and Rivoli Watches.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to midnight. Thu to Sat 10 to 1am Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 MERCATO

04 3444161

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

04 3198999

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 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1

04 5154000

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

BURJUMAN

04 3520222

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

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1 GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

04 3622222

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

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

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. Paspaley, The Dubai Mall 2. Spice Souk 3. Ibn batuta Mall 4. Baume & Mercier 5. Souk Madinat Jumeirah 6. The Dubai Mall 7. Royal Fashion Men's Tailors

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.

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

THE DUBAI MALL

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

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

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

04 3494444

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

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

04 3418020

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

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

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t he gui d e / s hop

WAFI

04 3244555

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

Shoppers’ survival guide

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, Thu Sat 10am to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya

AL GHURAIR CITY

04 2225222

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

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

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

Souks

ARABIAN CENTRE

04 2845555

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

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10.30pm. Thu and Sat 10am to 11.30pm Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3

04 3418020

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

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

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.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

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

SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3668888

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

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

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: Fri 10am to 8pm Map reference: E2

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)

COvent garden market dubai

MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422)

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

MOE Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747)

050 4250543

Timings: Wed and Thu

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

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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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.

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB MAY13.indd 96

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

04 4250400

OPERA GALLERY

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

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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dubai ™

shine monday- wednesday from 8pm Thursday- Saturday from 9pm

darren constable every sunday from 8pm

dubai festival city • +971-4-232-8900 • hardrock.com/dubai www.facebook.com/hrcdubai

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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

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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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 2394760

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED600 per hour 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: 8.30am to 11pm Guide price: AED225 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 AED200. Children from AED150 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

04 2828238

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

04 2999339

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

04 3366643

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.

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

ORIENT TOURS

Call individual tour operators for times and prices

04 3034888

1 . Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall 2. Desert Safari 3. Flight Simulator, Abu Dhabi 4. Belly dancing, Arabian Adventures 5. Speed boat tour

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

100

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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 SEAWINGS

04 8832999

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

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

person for 40 minutes

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3464194

Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999 BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

04 2854949

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

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per

adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

Paintballing 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.

Skydiving iFLYDUBAI

04 2316292

Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre in Dubai Festival City.

Timings: Call for timings Guide price: From AED80 for 15 minutes

Timings: Daily 9am to 11pm. Price: AED215

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

050 1533222

04 3244755/050 6514583

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

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

hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

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: AED80 includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

SKYDIVE DUBAI

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

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 4485200

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

Little Explorers

The Mane Attraction

non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED675 for certified divers

MAGIC PLANET

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Family activities

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

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

(see Marine adventures)

Swimming with sharks

Shooting (see Sports)

Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to midnight. Thu 8.30am to midnight. Sat 4.30am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED125, children (4 to 12 years) AED95. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400

FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com

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

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.

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED40 per hour

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

Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge

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.

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

800 28843867

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

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.

04 4297949

BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)

DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

Whether you have mischievous infants or impatient teenagers, Dubai offers something for all the family.

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

Amusements & attractions

04 3244555

Family fun

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

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: AED875 for

Timings: From 2pm to

Swimming with dolphins

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Timings: Tue to Sun 11am

to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED185 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.

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.

SEGA REPUBLIC

04 4488484

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: Thrill ticket AED 160 Platinum Power 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: AED125 adults, AED115 children, under four AED40 and younger free

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

102

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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.

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. 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Combo ticket AED55

Timings: Shows Mon to Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED120 adults; AED80 children 04 4260000

Waterparks

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

AQUA PLAY

ENCOUNTER ZONE

04 3247747

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

Wafi’s adventure playground for kids. Look out for 'Lunarland', 'Galatica' and the skate park.

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

Timings: Sat to Wed

AQUAVENTURE

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

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED225 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free

THE LOST CHAMBERS

04 3340808

to 8.30pm, Fri 3 to pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket

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.

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

An interactive science and cultural centre.

04 3484444

04 3369773

Edutainment

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

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

04 3241222/04 3243222

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

Timings: Sun to Thu 1 to 9pm, Fri and Sat noon to 9pm Guide price: AED145 per person

CHILDREN’S CITY

Cool it

SPLASHLAND

Golf AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

6. Skydiving 7. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi 8. Al Badia Golf course 9. Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

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

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

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

04 3663000

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

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED460, Fri and Sat AED550 for 18 holes(AED60 cart free added each day)

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)

Majlis Course:

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2956000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED695 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

04 3802222

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

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

Green fees: Majlis Course

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

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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) Shopping Arcade J.W. Marriott Marquis Hotel, Shaikh Zayed Road Dubai (04-432 3166) | 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 |

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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

04 3065061

Timings: Sat to Thu 2

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

AED495 and Fri and Sat AED795 for 18 holes THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

04 3905600

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

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB

04 4251010

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

Green fees: Daily

AED895 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 AED500 per person

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

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.

10. Wild Wadi 11. Scuba diving 12. Rock climbing 13. Dubai Desert Classic

no boundaries

050 2514988

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

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

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573084

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

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

050 1002477

Catch your own lunch on a deep-sea fishing trip.

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1,800 for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee

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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: AED350

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: From AED55 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: AED70 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

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: AED55 for two hours

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

GALLERIA ICE RINK

04 2096000

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

Karting new wave Yachting in Dubai is fast becoming a major attraction in its own right with a host of companies offering fantastic packages for chartering your very own yacht. There are also plenty options to buy and if you already have your own yacht there is a stunning selection of routes to try. Dhow racing season soon draws to a close. The pinnacle of the sport's annual calendar is this month's Al Gaffal long distance traditional 60ft race on May 18. See the stunning dhows slice through the waves as they race from Sur Bu Na'air Island and finish at Mina Seyahi.

04 3678744

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

30 minutes

Mini golf 04 8523221

Guide price: AED6,400

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

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

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

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.

02 5629050

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

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

Watersports

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB MAY13.indd 106

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

DESERT RANGERS

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

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, AED180 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 2573084

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

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

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

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

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

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.

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

050 5592131

106

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

04 3618111

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED115

050 5517280

Shooting

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

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

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.

Polo

DUBAI AUTODROME

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

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

04 3941669

YAS Racing School

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

14. Ice Rink, The Dubai Mall 15. Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club 16. Ski Dubai 17. Meydan racing

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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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.

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 Cook with the masters.at Armani/Ristorante. Join Chef Alessandro for 90 minutes of hands-on culinary tutelage and a three-course lunch. Taking place every second Friday of the month, learn how to recreate your favourite Armani/ Ristorante flavours at home. Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/Mediterraneo – Mediterranean Armani/Deli – 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.

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

Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai

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LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB MAY13.indd 108

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

04 4260000

The Palm Jumeirah With 20 restaurants, bars and lounges brought to you by world-renowned chefs, Atlantis is one of the most diverse and iconic culinary destinations in Dubai. Each venue is unique and, as you’d expect, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion. Asia Republic – Asian Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – International Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International N'Dulge – Nightclub Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Burger Joint – American diner

Auris Plaza Hotel Al Barsha

04 4554800 Al Barsha

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

22/04/2013 18:01

T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

04 8852222

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

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

04 7012222

Dubai Festival City The Belgian Brunch at the Belgian Beer Café boasts a hearty feast including delicious waffles. Every Friday from 1 to 4pm. AED249. Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

Located in the heart of Jumeirah. hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd, with Boudoir, Loca Restaurant and Bar and Sho-Cho hosting regular theme nights. Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Lebanese Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian El Malecon – Cuban Flooka – Mediterranean Loca Restaurant & Bar – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

04 3194000

Dubai Marina Enjoy stunning views during The Observatory’s happy hour, which runs from 5 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday and 5 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road PAX will this month be serving a number of fine Italian dishes as you relax and admire the views across Dubai. 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

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

04 3171234 Oud Metha

ASIAN

Experience the tastes of Italy at gourmet restaurant Andiamo! where delicious rustic Italian cooking is the order of the day.

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

Andiamo! – Italian Awtar – Lebanese Cooz – Jazz bar iZ – Indian Manhattan Grill – American Panini – Italian deli and café Peppercrab – Singaporean Sushi – Japanese The Market Café – International Wox – Vietnamese

Grand Millennium Dubai

04 4299999 Al Barsha

At the Belgian Beer Cafe diners can enjoy a feast of mussels, 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

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 Gaucho – Dubai International Financial Centre The Rib Room – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Rhodes Twenty10 – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Palm Grill – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek 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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Grosvenor House, Dubai

hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates

Jumeirah creekside hotel

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Road

DIFC

04 3998888

Celebrity chefs including Vineet Bhatia, Gary Rhodes and Richard Sandoval operate exclusive restaurants in this awardwinning five-star hotel. Try Rhodes Mezzanine for fine British fare or savour the flavours of India at Indego by Vineet. Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British Rhodes in Residence– Afternoon tea Siddharta Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Bar – Bar The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa

04 3995000

Dubai Marina This popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations. An array of exellent dining options abound here such as sumptuous steaks at The Grand Grill and authentic dishes from China at the popular Summer Place Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar.

5. Fogueira, Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach 6. Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, Meliá Dubai 7. Rococo, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel 8. Barasti, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi

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 offer 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. Ruinart Champagne dinner at BiCE on May 16th. Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by nick and scott – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Savour a sublime threecourse menu paired with exquisite Ruinart Champagne in the stylish ambiance at BiCE Ristorante. 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

04 3772000

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

Enjoy The Kitchen's German Food Festival from May 24 to 31. Try an exclusive range of specialties, freshly prepared by expert German chef Benjamin Hötter, including Reibekuchen (crispy potato pancakes) and Erbensuppe (pea soup with crayfish). 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.

04 2308555

Enjoy Finest Beef evenings throughout May at Blue Flame with succulent cuts from Livingstone Farms which belong to the Blackmore wagyu family. Plumeria – Healthy café Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Cuban Nomad – Asian Crimson Gallery - Afternoon tea

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

04 3300000 DIFC

Enjoy the best of The Rib Room this month with a four-course set menu on Friday and Saturdays from AED180 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

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

04 4530000

Cubo Pasta – Italian

The Palm Jumeirah

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

Enjoy a seafood celebration at Lalezar and tuck into hot and cold mezzeh, salads, choice of main course and desserts.

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 Beach Hotel

04 3480000 Jumeirah

Friday brunch at La Parrilla is located on the 25th floor with stunning views of the Gulf. There's free flowing bubbly, an a la carte main course on selected items and buffet. Priced from AED625 per person. 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

Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese

Jumeira Rotana Hotel

04 3455888 Satwa

Try some German flavours at Brauhaus with a selection of the country’s traditional dishes. From 6-8pm daily enjoy selected beverages from AED22. Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

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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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

kempinski hotel & Residences, palm jumeirah

04 4442000

Dubai Marina

italian delights

Try a seasonal asparagus menu, put together by Brunello Restaurant with German culinary director Deff Haupt.

Millennium plaza Hotel dubai

Novotel World Trade Centre

Sheikh Zayed Road

Trade Centre

04 3877777

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

Beachside Barbecue – Brasserie Brunello Restaurant – Italian K-West Bar – Wine bar

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim

04 3993333

Dubai Marina

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.

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.

04 3320000

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.

Barasti – International Latest Recipe – International Watatsumi – Japanese Latitude Bar – Bar

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

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

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

Bur Dubai

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3995555

Dubai Marina Maya Modern Mexican Kitchen & Lounge has a new Ladies’ Night special, Senorita Sundays, from 7pm to 11pm. 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.

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.

THE DEK on 8 – Terrace bar The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai Contact: 04 3172221

Media Rotana Dubai

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.

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Nelson’s Bar introduces the new Saturday Brunch start from noon to 3:30pm. From AED 149 per person with a choice of three standard selected beverages. Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Melia Dubai

04 3868111 Port Rashid

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

Metropolitan Palace hotel

04 2270000 Deira

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

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

04 3366000

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 five-star 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 Savour authentic Italian flavours at The Talk Restaurant & Lounge. From classicco pizza cooked in a beech wood oven to robust pasta offerings. Every Sunday from 6.30 to 11pm. From AED165 per person including buffet and soft beverages. The Talk Restaurant & Lounge – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar

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

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.

Park Hyatt DubaI

Raffles Dubai

Garhoud

Oud Metha

04 6021234

Enjoy a sensational evening at French restaurant Traiteur which is hosting a dinner featuring a fine selection of wines from the house of Pascal Jolivet, one of the youngest and most dynamic wine-makers in the Loire Valley, France. The dinner will be addressed by the renowned French vintner on May 1 from 7pm. 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

04 3248888

Fire & Ice offers a selection of white and green asparagus specialties this month such as home-made tagliatelle with green asparagus and parmesan cheese. 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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 4502000

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 Certo presents dishes prepared a la Tagliatone during May which sees large cuts of meat carved at your table. Available until May 17. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar

04 3438888

Marrakech and Amwaj fuse on Fridays to offer the ultimate brunch. Enjoy Alaskan crab legs and fresh sushi with traditional Moroccan favourites. Priced at AED250 per person excluding beverages, AED395 including house beverages. Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

04 2281111 Deira

Indo Thai has launched its delicious Friday dinner buffet. The feast costs AED180 with soft drinks and AED230 with house beverages.

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.

Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indo Thai Asian Restaurant – Asian

Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian

radisson royal hotel dubai

04 3080000

Sheikh Zayed Road

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T A ST E/THE GUIDE

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

Dubai Marina

Emirates Hills

04 3995533

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

SHERATON DUBAI MALL OF THE EMIRATES HOTEL

04 3772000

An abundance of dining options are on offer here including mediterranean restaurant Sanabel. Sanctuary Pool Lounge - Lounge Sanabel - Mediterranean Vantage - lounge

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

04 4484848

Dubai Marina Experience a lavish seafood spread at A.O.C. French Brasserie on May 10. From crab and mussels to sushi and an oyster counter, there is a fresh selection of seafood The buffet starts at AED220 with soft beverages and AED310 withselected beverages

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.

villa rotana

04 3216111

Sheikh Zayed Road Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet with a host of dishes to choose from at this sumptuous feast served in a chic and contemporary setting.

Downtown Dubai

Moka Café – All-day dining

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

ARABIC TASTE

The Ritz-Carlton 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. Enjoy with a fresh flat breads or as a side with salad.

04 3994000

Dubai Marina For afternoon tea, book a table at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, prices start at AED125 per person.

9&10. Hukama, The Address Downtown Dubai 11. Lobby Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

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

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

04 3722222 DIFC

Moutabel: This is a delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine.

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

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

The Address Dubai Marina Dubai Marina

Enjoy fine Italian fare at Bussola with a two course lunch just AED110 per person from Sunday to Thursday.

Enjoy the Generation Creation Brunch at Mazina on May 18 from 12.30 to 3.30pm. Priced at AED220 including soft drinks.

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

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

04 3994141

Dubai Marina

Sambousek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach. Served as a mezze or snack, this dish is usually presented with three or four sevings on a plate.

Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

Al Murooj Rotana

04 3627934

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

04 4287888

050 2464555

Traders Hotel Dubai

The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style. Or choose from a wide selection of delish and refresing cocktails to relax and unwind with at the chic Chameleon Bar.

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

Alegra

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

Deira

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience.

City dining

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

04 2659888

Meydan

Cabana – Lounge Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

04 4238888

04 3813333

Take in breath-taking views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa while you enjoy delicious Thai cooking at Thiptara.

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

Enjoy a sensational brunch at Flavours on Two every Friday where 74 of the chef's top dishes selected from seven theme nights are on offer, starting from AED 175. Awardwinning eatery Teatro is one of the city's hottest restaurants boasting a live-action kitchen and a range of cuisines from India and Italy to China and Japan.

The Meydan

Taj Palace Hotel

Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali accompanied by live music.

Sheikh Zayed Road

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

The Palace Downtown Dubai

Deira

04 3438000

End the weekend on a traditional note and head to Nineteen on Saturday for a traditional roast with all the trimmings. Choose from an array of superbly succulent meats, accompanied by crisp roast potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables, as well as a sumptuous starter and dessert buffet. From AED 235 (including soft drinks) and AED 325 (including soft drinks and selected house beverages). From 12 to 3.30pm.

AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

04 2232222

Towers Rotana Dubai

04 3905600

AQUARA

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

04 8883828 Burj Khalifa

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

04 3666197

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar also serves British food. carluccio's

04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728

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

04 332960

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

04 3666730

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. Chi’Zen

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

First-class Cantonese cuisine and amazing views. Rivington Grill

04 4230903, 04 3666464 Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day. The Mango Tree

04 4267313

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

04 3686506

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor and excellent cuisine. VIP ROOM

04 3881400

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Dubai's hottest new clubbing venue. West 14th

04 4477601

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

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

DUBAI MARINA MALL, THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE, JUMEIRAH BEACH Nestled among a clutch of skyhigh towers Dubai Marina Mall offers an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse designer brands before relaxing at a selection of restaurants or enjoy al fresco eateries lining the water’s edge. Minutes away are Jumeirah Beach and The Walk at JBR where a leafy boulevard boasts cafés, fivestar hotels and art stores. Skydive Dubai is based at Jumeirah Beach for your chance to soar over the stunning sights below.

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MADINAT JUMEIRAH HOTEL, BURJ AL ARAB, JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL This picturesque cluster of Jumeirah properties boasts an eclectic range of luxury hotels, fine dining and entertainment. Shop at Souk Madinat, relax in the Assawan Spa or make waves at Wild Wadi water park. For the ultimate in luxury experiences visit Burj Al Arab with stunning ocean views, ornate interiors and decadent dining. Or enjoy the pristine beaches of Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

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

DUBAI T H E

L U X U R Y

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

MALL OF THE EMIRATES, SKI DUBAI Hundreds of designer stores, boutiques and entertainment options abound in this sprawling mall. Enjoy a 14 screen cinema complex or dine in one of two food courts. For something different, try Ski Dubai. The Middle East’s first indoor skiing complex offers a range of alpine fun from skiing to snowboarding.

M A G A Z I N E

conciergedubai.com

DUBAI TOURIST MAP HOTELS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Al Bustan Rotana Dubai Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Al Manzil Hotel Al Murooj Rotana Dubai Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach Residence Armani Hotel Dubai Asiana Hotel Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Auris Plaza Hotel Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Burj Al Arab Centro Barsha by Rotana Courtyard by Marriott, Green Community Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

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

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

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Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Nassima Tower Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai One & Only Royal Mirage One & Only The Palm Park Hyatt Dubai Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Downtown Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Raffles Dubai Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence Rixos The Palm Dubai Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

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Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Taj Palace Hotel Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Dubai Marina The Address Montgomerie The Meydan Hotel The Palace Downtown The Ritz-Carlton Dubai The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Centre Traders Hotel Dubai Towers Rotana Dubai The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Villa Rotana

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DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE(DIFC) The city’s finance and business hub connects the region to the rest of the world. Pay a visit to this area for a sophisticated evening out with a chic selection of restaurants, bars and lounges. Jumeirah Emirates Towers boasts a range of gourmet offerings such as fine-dining brasserie The Ivy.

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

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

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THE DUBAI MALL, BURJ KHALIFA AND THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN The world’s largest mall offers more than 1,200 shops alongside an abundance of dining and entertainment options. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is teeming with ocean life while The Dubai Fountain can be accessed from the mall where a stunning water show takes place every half hour each evening at the foot of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.

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

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

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

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Skydive Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai Autodrome Dubai Dolphinarium

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Al Jafiliya Al Karama BurJuman 21 Union 22 Al Rigga 23 Deira City Centre 24 GGICO 25 Airport Terminal 1 26 Airport Terminal 3 27 Emirates 28 Rashidiya

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Creek Al Jadaf Dubai Health Care City Oud Metha BurJuman Saeedia Al Ghubaiba Al Ras Palm Deira Baniyas Square

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Union Square Salah Al Din Abu Baker Al Siddique Abu Hail Al Qayadah Stadium Al Nahda Dubai Airport Free Zone Al Qusias 1 Etisalat

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

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{

My Dubai

UAE Sportbike champion Mahmoud Tannir, sponsored by TAG Heuer, shares his city highlights

}

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I love sunny Dubai at any time of the year, although I do prefer January until June when you can enjoy cooler temperatures. There are so many incredible events here, there is always something to do I am originally from Beirut, Lebanon, but have been in Dubai since 2003. I am actually an architect by profession but am focused full-time on motorcycle racing. I got into the sport after participating in track days at Dubai Autodrome. I love the race track in Dubai as it’s a great place to meet new people and have fun. Racing gives me everything, a challenge, freedom, passion and adrenalin. Dubai is a wonderful place to practise the sport. Besides racing I am a beach person and luckily so is my wife. One day of the weekend has to be at the Kite Beach where I used to kite surf. It’s also where I met my wife seven years ago. I love sunny Dubai at any time of the year, although I do prefer January until June when you can enjoy the cooler temperatures. There are so many incredible events here it means there is always something to do. I think the Dubai World Cup is a real highlight each year. It’s exciting to watch and it also attracts

lots of fans. I also like the Dunlop 24 Hour International Endurance Race held each year at Dubai Autodrome for GTs and touring cars. It’s something really different to see and buzzes with so much activity you can feel the thrill even if you are not racing. Dubai has an incredible selection of places to go enjoy a lovely meal. The Butcher Shop & Grill at Jumeirah Beach Residence is great for a meal outdoors. The Noodle House at Jumeirah Emirates Towers is another favourite of mine. I love the atmosphere and the sweet and sour chicken. Jones the Grocer is a great place to eat if you are looking for variety and I am a regular at Zaatar W Zeit for authentic Lebanese dishes such as zaatar with cheese and thyme. When friends and family visit we go to Jumeirah Beach Residence and Madinat Jumeirah. Both places are so vibrant and have a great atmosphere whether you are enjoying a meal or simply taking a walk. I also take visitors to experience

some of Dubai’s history and culture at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood which is a great place to explore for a sense of old Dubai. When it comes to shopping, Dubai is one of the best places in the world. I always shop at Mall of the Emirates as it is close by and very easy to navigate. It has everything you need under one roof.

My favourite Dubai memories are meeting my wife, the birth of our two daughters, Shamsa and Naya and becoming the UAE Sportbike champion in both 2012 and 2013. I’m sponsored by TAG Heuer which is truly amazing and I hope to keep winning. I am a perfectionist and whether its racing, training or in my personal life, I like to reach my best.

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Stores – Deira City Centre: +971 4 295 0066 / The Dubai Mall–The Souk: +971 4 339 9019 / Abu Hail: +971 4 297 0789 / Mall of the Emirates: +971 4 341 2237 / Mirdif City Centre: +971 4 284 0440 / Ras Al Khaimah: +971 7 233 5547 / Fujairah City Centre: +971 9 223 6860 Scarves & Glitters – Dubai Festival City: +971 4 232 8430 / Deira City Centre: +971 4 295 3625 / The Dubai mall: +971 4 330 8135 For trade enquiries please contact: nawab@kashkha.ae and raju@kashkha.ae Like us today at www.facebook.com/kashkhallc