Concierge Dubai Magazine, July 2013 by npimedia fz llc

July 2013 | issue 107

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 July 2013 | issue 107

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

Licensed by international Media Production Zone

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LIGHT UP YOUR RAMADAN AT ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI.

The setting is perfect. Serene views of the ocean, 34 specialist chefs on hand to serve fine delicacies for Iftar and Suhoor, space for over 1000 diners creating the unmistakable atmosphere that is the real spirit of Ramadan and convenient access with free valet parking. Join us at our Asateer tent or at Kaleidoscope and Levantine.

Reserve now on 04 426 2626 or email us at restaurantreservations@atlantisthepalm.com

ENDLESS WONDER

JULY 2013 / Issue 107 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

edi tor i a l Grou p Edi tor fay e ba rt l e Edi tor JACQU ELI N E CASTELLUCCIA Con t r ibu t ing edi tor S ol i v i a cu t hbe rt fa shion Edi tor naomi ch a dde rton

st u dio Se n ior A rt Dir ec tor An dr e a T e m pesta

Welcome to Concierge

Sen ior Design er s Ton y Sa n t i ago Pr achi bh au mik Photogr a pher A dh a m Sn e e h Produc t ion Coor dinator Nav e e d A ziz

a dv ert isi ng A dv ert ising M a nager STEPHE N N I XON Hot el r el at ionship m a nager Mi a C ache ro SENIOR SALES M ANAGER DA R RYL W ILLEY Sa l es M a nager s Sa nge eta Bu ta n i m a dih a zou bir i Speci a l proj ec ts K ir at Sa bh a rwa l

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

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

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

Ramadan is a special time of year when Muslims the world over join in fasting and additional acts of religious observance. The holy month also brings a spirit of celebration as swathes of colourful decorations and traditional lanterns adorn the city. Families take the opportunity to enjoy quality time as they gather to break the fast at special iftar meals held at homes and a host of Dubai’s finest hotels. Ramadan is also a time to celebrate the rich mixture of cultures that make Dubai so very unique. Visitors are wholeheartedly encouraged to join in the various events taking place across the city such as attending traditional Arabic iftar feasts held in grand tents, gourmet restaurants and majestic ballrooms across Dubai. Cultural tours and talks are hosted where guests are not only given the opportunity to spend time with locals but also learn a little about the true meaning and values of the holy month. Gifts are often given around this time of year. Find the perfect present for someone special with our feature on luxury Spanish jewellery house Carrera y Carrera on page 16. The brand has an illustrious 125-year history of creating stunning rings, bracelets and necklaces in gold and precious stones. Alternatively, turn to page 20 to discover the close connection between the worlds of art and luxury watchmaking in our decorative watches feature. Take the opportunity to learn all about Ramadan and how the faithful observe the holy month in the UAE with our feature on page 28. For a true taste of Ramadan join in a delicious iftar meal held each day when the sun sets to break the fast. Tables laden with local delicacies and sumptuous Arabic sweets await guests at Dubai’s five-star hotels. Choose which iftar experience to enjoy with our feature on page 58. Summer’s soaring temperatures are upon us and fortunately there is a host of indoor activities and attractions to enjoy in the comfort of cool conditions inside – turn to page 46 for more. Enjoy all Dubai has to offer this Ramadan with Concierge.

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

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

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

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In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh Location: Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai

Mosques in the UAE not only provide a serene space in which to worship but house some of the finest examples of art, Islamic calligraphy and Arabesque design in the region. Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai is a stunning example of these authentic features and boasts a striking ceiling (pictured). On page 36, Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh presents a beautiful portrait of mosques in the UAE, charting the extraordinary result of man’s efforts to get closer to God.

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Showrooms | Dubai Mall Dubai Marina Mall | Mall of the Emirates | Wafi | Gold Souk retail@mahallatijewellery.ae â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.mahallatijewellery.com Tel: +971 4 2262277

Contents july 2013 / Issue 107

8/Essentials

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

12/Crystal cascade

The Waterfall at The Dubai Mall

Shop 16/All that glitters

Spanish jeweller Carrera y Carrera shines bright

20/Time frame Fine art meets high-end timepiece design

Discover 28/Followers of the faith 34/Building greatness

Explore the foundations of the UAE’s mosques

36/Pillars of peace

Our photo essay on the nation’s majestic mosques

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Carrera y Carrera, Circulos de fuego collection

Learn the true meaning of Ramadan

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Contents july 2013 / Issue 107

Experience 46/The great indoors

Escape the heat with Concierge’s selection of fun activities to enjoy inside

52/Special treatment

Glow from head to toe with a beauty-boosting spa treatment

Taste 58/Sunset spread

Join in one of Dubai’s delicious iftar feasts

64/The perfect blend Enjoy the finest local flavours with an Arabic coffee

67 The guide SEGA Republic

88/My Dubai

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Zayan Ghandour, co-founder of UAE fashion boutique s*uce, shares her Dubai highlights

23/06/2013 10:50

Essentials

july

D I S C OV E R Islamic calligraphy

Many beautiful examples of the ancient art of calligraphy can be found in the UAE where Islamic calligraphy developed alongside the writing of the Qurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;an. Calligraphers spend many years honing skills which have been handed down from generation to generation. An exhibition in collaboration with Dubai Arabic Calligraphy Centre is being held at Ara Gallery. A Verse Imprinted showcases the work of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most acclaimed calligraphers such as Majid Alyousef (pictured). When: Until August 31. Contact: thearagallery.com

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TA S T E Tea salon

Savour the finest blends of teas from around the world during a visit to an elegant tea salon. TWG Tea Salon & Boutique is a wonderful addition to The Dubai Mall. Located beside The Waterfall, it is a perfect place to enjoy a pause in shopping and indulge in the finest cakes and scones served with an expertly brewed pot. Recent additions to the delightful menu are the exquisitely flavoured macarons. The Vanilla Bourbon Tea & Kaya Macaron is a white chocolate and coconut treat. When: Sun to Wed, 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat, 10am to midnight. During Ramadan: Daily, 6pm to 2am. How much: Afternoon tea selections from AED42 to AED80. Contact: 04 3253857

EVENTS IN BRIEF T H E A R R A N G E M E N T: AMIR H FALL AH

Until July 30 Beautiful floral collages in mixed media are the highlight of this exhibition in Dubai’s cultural hub Al Quoz. Iranian artist Amir H Fallah uses references from classic Dutch and Flemish still-life paintings throughout the exhibition at The Third Line art gallery which re-imagines some of the most iconic motifs in art history. Contact: 04 3411367

DUBAI SPORTS WORLD

Until August 21 A must-visit destination for sports in Dubai throughout the summer months. World-class facilities at Dubai World Trade Centre host a range of sports from football, rugby and tennis to skating, BMX and zumba. There’s something to keep everyone active despite the soaring summer temperatures. Available every day from noon to midnight. Contact: dubaisportsworld.ae

RAMADAN MAJLIS

July to August All are welcome to visit the Ramadan Majlis at Dubai World Trade Centre each evening during the holy month. Enjoy a traditional Ramadan feast in this wonderful setting. A majlis is an important gathering place for Emirati men where they meet and share meals. All of the family can join in this wonderful cultural activity here each evening from 8pm to 3am. Contact: 04 3064000

E X PER I E NCE Snorkelling

Take a break from the summer heat and cool down with a refreshing snorkelling session. Dubai’s coastline is teeming with all manner of sea life to marvel at while taking a dip in the azure waters. Alternatively, an unforgettable experience awaits visitors to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai where The Ultimate Snorkel is on offer. Swim with 65,000 marine animals, including sharks, fish and many species of rays in The Ambassador Lagoon – an awe-inspiring 11-million-litre, 10-metre-deep marine habitat. When: Daily programme available. How much: AED225 per person. Contact: 04 4261040

M O D H E S H W O R L D 2 013

Until August 28 The region’s largest indoor edutainment venue, Modhesh World is a major family attraction. Located at Dubai World Trade Centre there are 40 themed zones offering everything from video games to stage shows. Contact: summerisdubai.com

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D ISCOV ER

Ask the concierge

Ramadan in Dubai

Av n i s h M a s i h , c h i e f c o n c i e r g e at M ö v e n p i c k H o t e l I b n Bat t u ta Gat e , shares his insights for a w o n d e r f u l s tay i n t h e c i t y

A fantastic way to start any Dubai itinerary is to book a helicopter tour. The aerial views of Dubai are truly exceptional. Flying over stunning attractions such as Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab is extraordinary and a once-in-alifetime experience. Dubai’s only themed shopping centre is Ibn Battuta Mall, a uniquely designed space that celebrates the travels of famous Arabic explorer Ibn Battuta. It’s a vibrant place to shop as each region Battuta explored – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China – is reflected in the architecture and theme of the mall’s six shopping courts. The mall is also home to international brands so visitors can shop while immersing themselves in the history of this renowned explorer. For those in search of adrenaline-filled activities, flying above the clouds and falling through the skies at 120 miles per hour is an adventure to remember. Skydive Dubai offers the exhilarating experience of freefalling with an instructor over breathtaking views of manmade island Palm Jumeirah. Experiencing the glitz and glamour of Dubai’s extraordinary club scene is a must. For an exciting night out on the town try the chic Cavalli Club at Fairmont Dubai or sample stunning views at 360° at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Those looking for a romantic experience should try cruising down Dubai Creek. Enjoy dinner on board a dhow as the city skyline provides a stunning backdrop. Explore historical sites and learn about the UAE’s heritage with a visit to Dubai Museum where visitors not only become acquainted with Emirati culture and customs but also gain an insight into life here over the decades.

Learn the true meaning of Ramadan at a host of events designed to bring the city’s multi-cultural communities together during this special time of year. As a sense of religious observance is felt throughout Dubai a range of festivities and events inspired by the values of the holy month are presented. Ramadan tents brightly lit by traditional lanterns provide the opportunity to attend gatherings and discover more about local customs and culture. Ramadan is expected to begin on July 9 with Eid al-Fitr, signalling the end of the holy month, expected around August 7. Learn more about Ramadan with our feature on page 28. Contact: summerisdubai.com

SHO P

Dubai Summer Surprises 2013 The region’s largest shopping festival continues with fashion shows, special offers, competitions, music and dancing. Launched in 1998, the retail extravaganza has beckoned more than 22 million visitors from across the globe each year to the myriad of incredible shopping destinations Dubai has to offer. When: Until July 7. Contact: summerisdubai.com

SHO P

Photography Fine art photographer Tariq Dajani’s work on ‘Saqr’ the Arabian Hunting Falcon is beautifully observed in these poetic portraits. Fresh from an exhibition at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, prints of these enchanting images are now available to buy from Gallery One stores across the UAE throughout the summer. Contact: g-1.com

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TA S T E Iftar

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. It is a sacred time observed by Muslims worldwide marked by fasting and religious observance. Fasting begins at sunrise and ends at sunset so evenings during Ramadan are a special time when families come together to break the fast and enjoy an iftar meal. Middle Eastern cuisine such as hummous, grilled meats and dates are among the foods enjoyed at a host of first-class establishments such as Burj Al Arab (pictured). Choose from a selection of excellent iftars with our feature on page 58.

SHOP

Arabic perfume Attars are a spicy variety of perfume specific to the region. Derived from natural plant oils, they are highly concentrated and often sold in decorated crystal bottles or decanters. Popular in the Middle East for thousands of years, visit Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional Perfume Souk in Deira to purchase one of these special scents. When: Daily, 10am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm.

e x per i e nce Night golf

As temperatures continue to rise, beat the heat with an evening round of golf. Tee off under the stars for a cooler session on the fairways at one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exclusive greens. Emirates Golf Club boasts a floodlit 18-hole course where players can stay in swing throughout the summer. When: Daily 5pm to midnight. Contact: 04 3801234

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Crystal cascade

One of The Dubai Mall’s most elegant attractions, The Waterfall beautifully combines reflections of light, cutting-edge sculpture and streaming textures. A truly impressive water feature, it depicts a host of fibreglass divers plunging down a great curtain of water that spans the height of the mall and tumbles into a glistening pool below. Reflecting sunlight streaming in through surrounding windows and beautifully lit in the evening, it’s a stunning spectacle. Dine in one of the nearby restaurants and cafés or simply take a break from a busy shopping trip and unwind next to the sights and sounds of the falling water. 12

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

S NA P S HOT

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Shop

Photographer: Mirjana Zigic Khairallah Fashion director: Sleiman Dayaa

Lanv in

Striking geometric shapes in elegant hues define the S/S â&#x20AC;&#x2122;13 collection from Lanvin. Slashed necklines and box skirts are complemented by leather detailing and cuffs. This stunning asymmetric dress in honey-washed duchess satin has a satin bow on the shoulder and boasts a beaded sequin panel to offer a chic evening look. Contact: 04 3308008

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All that glitters With a vibrant collection of glittering treasures, Carrera y Carrera’s bold and opulent jewellery pieces are now sought after around the world

Behind each meticulously handcrafted piece of stunning Carrera y Carrera jewellery lies more than 125 years of history, starting with a small store located in the heart of Madrid founded in 1885 by brilliant sculptor and jeweller Manuel Carrera. His talents passed through generations, first to his son, José Esteban Carrera, then to Esteban’s nephews followed by their sons. It is with Manual Carrera’s great-grandchildren Manuel and Juan José that the company has blossomed into the world-renowned brand we know today. Credited with breathing new life into the Spanish jewellery market as well as gaining a legion of famous followers due to its unique and stylish designs, Carrera y Carrera has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious jewellery collections. Glimpsing back in time, Concierge takes a look at the man behind the brand and the breathtaking pieces he has created.

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c a rre ra y ca rre ra / s hop

It was during the 1970s that Manuel Carrera enlisted the help of his cousin Juan José in realising his vision for a new type of jewellery business. Manuel was the creative force behind the company having inherited the family flair for designing precious trinkets. Encouraged by his uncle at the age of just 14 he began to learn the trade as a goldsmith workshop apprentice in Spain. Bitten by the jewellery-making bug, Manuel continued his education at the Madrid Jewellery Union College where he developed his own individual style that was to become the cornerstone of Carrera y Carrera. “The classicism of 1950s jewellery prevailed at the time,” says the brand’s talented co-founder Manuel Carrera. I have always felt that jewellery is an eminently artistic trade, but in those days it was pigeonholed and dominated by outdated, tasteless styles. When I set up shop on my own aged 22 I chose to work on completely different artistic styles.” Determined to break the mould Manuel and Juan José revolutionised the Spanish jewellery scene with the birth of vibrant Carrera y Carrera designs. Opulent and daring, Manuel’s style drew inspiration from the spirit of his home country, Spain, as well as the natural forms of flowers and animals. Bringing gold and precious stones to life, each piece takes on a sculptural quality with most displaying a signature matte-gloss finish in a play with different metallic textures. “We worked on new styles with mythological and symbolic themes playing with animal and human forms, all crafted in gold, diamonds and precious stones. The stones are skillfully combined with diamonds, although metal is

R OYA L C O N N E C T I O N

Before the brand Carrera y Carrera was born the family goldsmith workshop had already been trusted with some extremely prestigious commissions. It was responsible for the creation of the Sword of Victory which was offered to Spanish dictator General Francisco Franco in 1939. It was made of gold and decorated with a total of 2,270 precious stones. The jewellery house also crafted the stones set in the tiara of Spanish aristocrat Fabiola de Mora y Aragón when she married King Baudouin I of Belgium in 1960.

1 Olivia Palermo models Música collection (previous page) 2 Manuel Carrera 3 Mediterráneo collection 4 Carrera y Carrera workshop 5 Brand ambassador Olivia Palermo 6 Alegrías ring in white gold with white and black diamonds 7 Melodía ring in white gold with diamonds

always the predominant element, revealing the artistic essence of the shapes,” says Manuel. Ensuring the highest level of quality possible, each piece was – and still is – crafted by hand. The 1980s saw the beginning of international expansion for the brand when pieces the company had created were displayed in prestigious locations such as Japan’s Yamanashi Museum, The White House Museum in Washington and the Armory museum in the Kremlin. “My brother Juan José travelled to the US with a suitcase full of our wares without knowing what to expect from the American market. It did not take long for us to fit in and obtain major clients, including Cellini jewellers at the Waldorf Astoria and luxury store Neiman Marcus. At the time, the predominant attitude toward anything Spanish was one of wariness, but we attracted a steady following from Fifth Avenue in New York to the most remote corners of the US,” says Manuel. Just over 30 years later the Carrera y Carrera brand has an international presence in more than 40 countries.

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c a rre ra y ca rre ra / s hop

In 2012, the brand opened the UAE’s f irst standalone Car rera y Car rera boutique at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Teaming up with Levant, a leading luxury jewellery retailer in the UAE, the opening was also its first boutique in the region. The brand is also available in various Levant outlets at a host of five-star hotels across Dubai. Nathalie Guedj, CEO of Carrera y Carrera, says: “We are very pleased and proud to welcome Levant to the Carrera y Carrera family. Its expertise in the luxury jewellery market and its team’s impeccable client service skills will be the guarantee to our strong and fast visibility in the Dubai market.”

Arif Ben Khadra, Chairman of Levant, adds: “Carrera y Carrera will certainly add to our success in providing our clientele with unique and exquisite designs.” With stunning stand-out pieces it’s no wonder that Carrera y Carrera has become the red carpet jewellery choice for Tinseltown royalty attending galas, premieres and awards ceremonies. Jennifer Lopez, Demi Moore, Katy Perry, Olivia Wilde, Sofia Vergara and Bond Girl Bérénice Marlohe have all been photographed sparkling in Carrera y Carrera at celebrity occasions, complementing their designer outfits of choice to perfection. Perhaps one of the most recognisable links between the brand and high-profile clientele is New York socialite Olivia Palermo. In 2011 Palermo became the face of the brand’s Mediterráneo collection and has since become a regular in Carrera y Carrera advertising campaigns. Palermo also fronts the latest sophisticated campaign for the new Música collection. The elegant jewellery line exudes feminine f lair in striking gold necklaces and rings inspired by the movement of dance. Inf luences also come from vibrant flamenco dresses and Spanish guitars with layered gold revealing various textures in undulating shapes.

8 Danza Maxi ring in yellow gold with diamonds 9 Carrera y Carrera boutique in Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 10 Carrera y Carrera campaign forthe Circulos De Fuego collection

In 2012, the brand opened the UAE’s first standalone Carrera y Carrera boutique at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai teaming up with Levant, a leading luxury jewellery retailer in the UAE. The opening was its first boutique in the region

Treble clefs in white gold encrusted with diamonds create the setting for darker stones mounted on chunky rings. The same musical motif is repeated on necklaces and earrings in white and yellow gold. Shieldlike pendants and rings feature white diamonds, onyx, black diamonds or mother of pearl in the centre. All exhibit the same dramatic panache for an eye-catching accessory. Another key 2013 collection from Carrera y Carrera celebrates the dawn of the Chinese year of the snake. The Serpiente Maxi range features intricately carved snake pendants in yellow and white gold, fascinatingly lifelike in design. As with the skills that have passed from one generation of Carreras to the next, the brand’s timeless jewellery can also be enjoyed for years to come as heirlooms in family collections and passed down the years. The Carrera y Carrera boutique is located at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Carrera y Carrera is also available at Levant stores in The Dubai Mall, Madinat Jumeirah Hotel – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Hotel – Mina A’Salam, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

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a rt W AT CHE S / s hop

Time frame When the worlds of art and high-end watch design meet, the results are truly timeless

The way in which a luxury timepiece is crafted has much in common with the creation of a piece of art. The beginnings of an idea are sketched as the finest tools and materials are selected for the task at hand. Just as a painter carefully considers the blank canvas before him, the watchmaking artisan regards the dial, case or strap as a unique space to showcase his skill. This distinct canvas presents the opportunity to use specialist techniques such as miniature painting and wood carving to bring horological masterpieces to life. The art of watchmaking has undergone an incredible evolution over the decades. In the early 19th century men carried pocket watches which were seen as purely functional tools to measure time. The First World War heralded a change in attitudes prompted by soldiers returning from war wearing wrist watches which had been much more versatile on the front line. Previously merely a trinket for women, the wrist watch was embraced by the upper classes as a marker of social status and a great deal of effort was poured into its design. From the moment watchmakers ventured beyond the functional to create a timepiece that was also fashionable they edged ever closer to the artistic. Skilled artisans came together to form communities of craftsmen in centres of watchmaking excellence such as Switzerland where they spent months honing each unique piece with astonishing results. Accomplishments came in miniaturisation and precision mechanical engineering which were then coupled with beautifully elegant designs. Since then pioneering luxury watchmakers have continued to blur the lines between art and functionality with techniques and styles adopted from some of worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most iconic artists and their creations. From Austrian master Gustave Klimt to the characters of traditional Italian theatre, watch and clock design has found muses in the greats of the art world. This has in turn created true timepiece connoisseurs who appreciate an exquisitely designed watch or clock as they would a work of art. Add to your own collection with Conciergeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selection of artistic timepieces.

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sho p/ a rt W AT CHES

1 Cartier Métiers d’Art Ronde Louis Cartier (previous page) 2 Chaumet Attrape-Moi Si Tu M’aimes 3 Making of Chaumet Attrape-Moi Si Tu M’aimes 4 Quinting Art Collection, Cherry Blossom 5 Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos Marqueterie

Chaumet Attrape-Moi Si Tu M’aimes The finest artistic decorative skills are showcased in stunning detail in this luxurious design from French jeweller Chaumet. A collaboration with Swiss master craftsmen has resulted in a combination of striking aesthetics which also boast mechanical excellence. Intricate miniature painting on the dial creates a dreamlike woodland night scene while a dusting of pyrite stones represents stars. A white mother-of-pearl moon shines over appliqué flowers, a dragonfly and a snail. Hand-painted details such as blades of grass and a ladybird complete the charming scene. Brilliant-cut diamonds surround the glittering white gold and rhodium-plated case. The collection is completed by six more unique timepieces, each presenting an incredible range of design skills from miniature painting and enamelling to engraving using diamonds, mother of pearl and China ink.

Intricate miniature painting on the dial creates a dreamlike woodland night scene while a dusting of pyrite stones represents stars. A white mother-of-pearl moon shines over appliqué flowers, a dragonfly and a snail Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos Marqueterie The gilded brushstrokes of acclaimed Austrian artist Gustave Klimt lend an elegant edge to this signature creation from the luxury Swiss watchmaking house. This is the fifth instalment in an exquisite collection of Atmos clocks dedicated to the symbolist painter. The Atmos was first developed 80 years ago and is as innovative today as it was when first made. Its mechanism operates on small fluctuations in temperature which supply its movement with energy. Jaeger -LeCoultre and Klimt are two icons known the world over for ingenious design and stunning form and this collaboration makes a perfect pairing. This piece is inspired by

The Waiting, part of the artist’s famous frieze which adorns Belgian mansion Stoclet House. The original work’s marble and coloured stone mosaic has been faithfully recreated in a marquetry motif which covers the glass crystal cabinet. More than 1,400 wooden elements on the clock were carved from 35 precious wood varieties such as Ceylon lemonwood, tulipwood and walnut. The manufacture’s craftsmen spent hundreds of hours creating the stunning design which also boasts a motherof-pearl-coated dial with a 60-minute marker in the form of a cushion-cut yellow sapphire. The limited edition clock comes in just 10 pieces and is a wonderful showcase of artistic skill.

Quinting Art Collection, Cherry Blossom An innovative transparent dial presents a series of elegant painted depictions in this collection. Paying homage to the creativity of the manufacture’s skilled artisans, each handpainted piece is not only beautiful but also one of a kind. A layered sapphire movement shines through the transparent window which provides a view of the original works of art painted within. Specialist miniature brushes were used to create the colourful scenes in paint and enamel. This delicate timepiece boasts striking blooms in hues of brilliant blue, red and gold.

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LIVE

The Treasure Hunt, July 10 – 19 Come Laugh, Learn and Play with…

Bader, Anees, Elmo, Khokha, Ka’aki and Gharghour Also Known as Bert, Ernie, Elmo, Khokha, Cookie Monster and Grover A fun musical extravaganza the whole family will enjoy.

We will find real treasures - like friendship and health

We will take a safe and happy journey to celebrate childhood.

Festival Partner

For more information Call Toll-free 800 555 Visit www.summerfestabudhabi.ae | www.visitabudhabi.ae

Official Airline Partner

Organiser

SHO P/ A RT WA TCHES

Cartier Métiers d’Art Ronde Louis Cartier

INSTRUMENTS OF ART

This collection is a wonderful example of the artistic skills used in luxury jewellery making. A host of techniques have been applied here to achieve exceptional results. Enamelling, engraving and mother-ofpearl marquetry have all come into play to create spectacular dials. This Ronde Louis Cartier watch comes in an 18-carat white gold case set with brilliant-cut diamonds. The white gold dial bears a beautiful enamel horse motif which has been painted in the grisaille style which sees subjects conveyed in greys or monochrome. The intricate enamelling process of each dial takes around 40 hours to compete. The dial’s elegant scene is further enhanced by sleek, apple-shaped hands. This unique timepiece for 2013 is limited to only 80 pieces.

History’s most creative characters are the inspiration for these limited edition luxury writing instruments from Montblanc. Dedicated to master Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, this elegant pen comes with a skeletonised solid gold cap to show the 18-carat gold nib housed inside. The exterior is engraved with Picasso’s comments and views on his own work while the cap bears a striking detail from the artist’s 1936 work, Portrait de Jeune Fille.

MONTBLANC ARTISAN EDITION PABLO PICASSO 91

Enamelling, engraving and mother-of-pearl marquetry have all come into play to create spectacular dials

Bulgari Gerard Genta Commedia dell’Arte Inspired by 16th century Italian theatrical traditions some of the most iconic cultural characters come to life in this collection. The Commedia dell’Arte was a form of theatre where masked figures gave improvised performances. Carrying this theme across highly decorative dials, Bulgari’s craftsmen have accomplished a stunning feat in miniature painting and engraving. Each dial depicts Italian palazzos in Venice, Naples or Bologna. Sound and animation are paired in a charming sequence as the cathedral gong minute repeater sounds and the masked characters come to life. Occupying the centre of the dial are three of the most famous figures from the original Italian stage genre, Brighella, Pulcinella and Harlequin. Between five and seven mobile components animate the characters as they move their arms to play a musical instrument. Each intricate dial has four levels featuring the central character, appliqué side characters, foreground décor and background décor. The case is crafted from 18-carat white gold while the caseback is of transparent sapphire crystal. This limited edition collection comes in just eight pieces and is a stunning tribute to the lost art of automata where mechanical movements were incorporated into artistic pieces. A triumph in craftsmanship, the engraver used 15 different tools to achieve the movement of the central characters while the miniaturist painter dedicated three to five weeks to complete each charming scene.

6 Cartier Métiers d’Art Ronde Louis Cartier 7 & 8 Bulgari Gerard Genta Commedia dell’Arte

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Be a part of one of the most special observances during Ramadan, as the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional fast is broken just after sunset. Savour Iftar with traditional buffets, light mezze, vibrant live cooking stations and refreshing juices. Live Arabic music with an oud player provide additional atmosphere in the serene Arabesque ambience, of our transformed Melrose Ballroom, beautifully draped with date palms and casual majlis seating to celebrate together. AED 129 per person AED 110 per person for groups of 10 or more Kids 12 and under dine complimentary

MĂśvenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach P.O. Box 282825, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Phone +971 4 449 8888, Fax +971 4 449 8889 hotel.jumeirahbeach@moevenpick.com

Discover Cult ural collection

Step back in time at Miraj Islamic Art Centre where a treasure trove of historical artefacts, art work and sculpture awaits. A beautiful selection of antique pieces offers a glimpse into life in this region centuries ago. Immerse yourself in an array of fascinating finds from banqueting silverware to 12th century Persian swords. When: Daily, 9.30am to 6.30pm. Contact: mirajislamicartcentre.com

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Followers of the faith The ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is a time of peaceful reflection when communities come together Words by

Charlot t e Van de n Broucq ue

Every year over 1.6 billion Muslims around the world spend the 29 days of Ramadan focusing on reflection, spirituality and closeness to God through prayer, self-restraint and acts of charity. This is one of the most important dates in the Islamic calendar and provides followers of the faith with a chance to cleanse their soul and renew their relationship with God. A time for spirituality, family and community Ramadan unites Muslims and gives others the opportunity to learn about this fascinating culture and how it impacts peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives in the UAE and around the world. Known as the holy month, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and always starts two weeks earlier than the previous year. The exact date of the beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon which is called the hilal. Not until this slight crescent has appeared in the sky will the start of the holy month be announced. The following morning at the first light of dawn fasting will commence. The festival adds a splash of colour to the city as homes, buildings and streets are decorated with bright lights and lanterns. This year Ramadan is due to fall between July 9 and August 7 or as soon as the Moon Sighting Committee spots the hilal. At the end of the month when the hilal is once again observed the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival of fast-breaking begins.

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How to respect Ramadan

month where every day you sit down as a family, but during Ramadan you spend every night together.” As well as gatherings at home nearly every hotel in the city will serve luxurious iftar buffets incorporating authentic Middle Eastern cuisine like mezze, pickles, olives, roasted meats, tagines and juices. Later in the evening a second round of food is served in a meal called sohour. This is also the name for the last meal before sunrise and some eat it as an early breakfast before the first prayer. Another major part of the holy month is zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam that requires Muslims give to the poor and needy. Feeling hunger from fasting is a reminder of the suffering of others and the need to be charitable towards them. “In Ramadan charity counts in every way. You can feed, clothe, or give money. You give from what God has given you,” says Kayed. All shopping malls will have charity stands during the holy month where donations can be made.

Refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public through daylight hours during Ramadan, even inside cars. It is considered polite to cover shoulders and legs. The only live music played during Ramadan is traditional Arabic music. Dancing is not allowed. The working day often starts later and ends earlier. Iftar, the meal over which the daily fast is broken, is held around 7pm each evening depending on the time of year and when the sun sets. While malls remain open during the day, most food outlets will be closed until sunset. It is possible to eat in curtained-off venues and in hotels during the day, but the choice will be limited.

Another major part of the holy month is zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam that requires Muslims give to the poor and needy Nasif Kayed, general manager of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), explains the different elements of practising Islam, especially during the holy month. “Part of the faith is fasting. The idea is to teach discipline, perseverance and patience. It also makes you watch yourself very closely,” he says. During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset Muslims must abstain from all food, drink, smoking, intimacy with their spouse, gossiping and cursing. While outsiders might think this a daunting prospect, many followers look forward to the holy month each year. “The whole community does it together. It would be more difficult if you were the only one,” Kayed explains. “Of course there are some Muslims who don’t anticipate the arrival of Ramadan as eagerly, but those who dive into it are rewarded by enhanced spirituality. Many of us really look forward to it because it makes us feel great to practise being good.”

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The Holy Qur’an (previous page) Dates and Arabic coffee prepared for iftar Traditional lantern 4 Oudh Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

That doesn’t mean to say it is an easy time for Muslims. “The first three days are very difficult for almost everyone. As the month goes on it gets better and better and by the time you’re used to it, it ends. You feel so purified that you could continue to live like it past the end of the month,” Kayed explains. As the sun sets Muslims prepare to break the fast traditionally with dates and camel milk in a meal called iftar. “It’s a special time for everyone,” reveals Kayed. “You don’t normally eat 29 meals in one

G e t i n v o lv e d Even if you do not follow the Islamic faith there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the holy month during Ramadan. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) will be holding an iftar programme where everyone is invited to experience the breaking of the fast. The SMCCU’s ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ policy means it’s the perfect time to ask questions about Ramadan, Islam or Middle Eastern culture. SMCCU continue tours around the Jumeirah Mosque during this time. Iftars will be held at most of the large hotels across the UAE. Experience some authentic Middle Eastern cuisine before enjoying a shisha in traditional tents. Visit: cultures.ae for more information on the SMCCU’s programmes.

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Personal perspectives UAE residents offer an insight into what Ramadan means to them.

Visitors are also invited to join in the spirit of generosity either by donating or giving larger tips to their waiters or taxi drivers. A useful phrase to use around this time is Ramadan kareem which means ‘happy Ramadan’ to those who are celebrating the holy month. Whether Ramadan or not, Muslims will pray five times a day, but the prayers just before sunrise and just after sunset during the holy month take on extra significance as daylight fasting begins or ends. Performing ritual prayers five times a day is another pillar of Islam and is called salat. Many will read the Qur’an more frequently and intently during this time, memorising parts of the text and reciting the Muslim profession of faith, or shahada more often. Ahead of prayer time worshippers perform wudu or ablution

to cleanse faces, hands and feet before presenting themselves to God. “Ablution is the physical and mental preparation before you step into the conversation with your lord,” explains Kayed. “The prayer is identical every time. All over the world Muslims say the same words reflecting the same teaching principle: to be good and recognise blessings.” Ramadan and fasting ends with a threeday celebration called Eid al-Fitr. Kayed says: “After breakfast and prayer everyone dresses in new clothes and visits each other starting with the oldest in the family and then visiting extended family. All three days are about visiting family and having fun together.” It’s also common, though not obligatory, for families to give gifts especially to children during this special time.

Manal bin Ismail “I look forward to Ramadan every year. My family and friends do too. It’s a month for both learning and bringing people together when families gather for iftar every evening. There’s also a special spirit to the month. During the day friends and neighbours exchange dishes they have made especially for breaking the fast. During Ramadan I’ll wake up early and have sohour before the first prayer. Working hours are shorter during Ramadan and mine will change completely. I work at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) and we will be holding an iftar programme during the month where all people, whatever their beliefs, are encouraged to come along and share in the breaking of the fast. So I will work from just before sunset until after the meal is finished. Some people have another meal before going to bed too. Ramadan teaches you to be nice to others and to watch what you are doing and saying. You must also not listen to gossip. At the same time Ramadan teaches you to become honest with yourself. When I’m alone I know there’s no one watching me so I could eat or drink without anyone knowing, but this is a test and God is watching. After Ramadan I try to carry on the good habits I’ve been practising such as keeping my relationships good, saying sorry to my friends if I did something wrong and continuing to be around for family and friends.”

Ali Alsaloom “Ramadan is the most special time of the year to all Muslims around the world. I believe that fasting is a great opportunity to recharge and strengthen my faith in God, to purify my mind, my body and soul. I spend a lot of time praying, reading the Qur’an and attending rituals at the mosques. At the same time, I learn how to discipline myself, to improve my manners, to become more mature when dealing with others and to be more generous to others in all aspects. Ramadan is a time I also look forward to because of the good deeds I can do. The rewards of every good deed are multiplied during this blessed month, which makes it extra special. When I fast, it teaches me how it feels not to have any food for several hours. I learn to empathise with poor and hungry people and am more thankful towards God who blessed us with food. The last 10 days of Ramadan are very special because this period includes the night that the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon him) called Laylat Al Qadr (the Night of Power). Therefore, we like to spend more time in the mosques. Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a wonderful and charming celebration when meals are shared with everyone in the community and children receive gifts. Ramadan is not only a celebration for Muslims but also a great opportunity for others to learn more about this faith and culture. I wish everyone a great holy month of Ramadan.” Ali Alsaloom is an author, cultural consultant, public speaker and selfappointed cultural ambassador. Visit alialsaloom.com for more information.

Manal bin Ismail is a presenter at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. For more information visit cultures.ae

6 Prayer beads 7 Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding 8 The Qur’an

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Building greatness

The UAE’s mosques are beautiful palaces of worship that add an enchanting touch to the nation’s skyline Words by

Charlot t e Van de n Broucq ue

It is estimated that 80 percent of the UAE’s population are Muslim and as such over 1,400 mosques across the country provide places of worship for followers of the Islamic faith. In the cities mosques have been built so that wherever you are you should be able to hear the ambient call to prayer. As the melodic sound echoes across the emirates five times a day it summons the faithful and reminds others that this is the heart of Arabia. Varying in design and detail it’s possible to view a huge variety of architectural influences across many of the UAE’s mosques. Anatolian mosques feature Turkish influences with large central domes supported by grand pillars, Shi’ite mosques often have ornate blue tiling and the Iranian style includes a courtyard as well as extensive use of coloured geometric designs. Despite the differing building materials and styles, there are some things that all mosques have in common. They will have at least one minaret – a tall slim tower from the top of which the call to prayer is broadcast across the city. Worshippers will bow, kneel and lie prostrate in the prayer hall which is deliberately left uncluttered and without furniture so that many people can pray at the same time. As they do so they will face the mihrab which is located in an ornamental alcove in the wall of the mosque

1 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi 2 Ceiling detail from Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai

In the cities mosques have been built so that wherever you are you should be able to hear the ambient call to prayer and marks the direction of Ka’aba, the ancient shrine at the centre of the Holy Mosque in Makkah. The UAE’s oldest mosque, Al Badiyah located on a hilltop in Fujairah shares similar traits. Estimated to have been constructed in 1446 from mud and stone, the 53-square-metre building is still used for daily prayers. Able to accommodate 50 to 70 people, its recent refurbishment ensures the mosque’s preservation for generations to come and has also attracted increasing numbers of visitors interested in seeing the ancient structure for themselves. The small Al Badiyah mosque stands in complete contrast to

the upcoming opening of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque Fujairah, which will be the second biggest mosque in the UAE after the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. It has been designed as a replica of the Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, with six minarets, a large open courtyard and an elaborate selection of domes. With a capacity for 28,000 worshippers the new mosque is due to be finished this summer but will exhibit a more understated look with far less elaborate and expensive finishes than its sister mosque in Abu Dhabi. In Dubai the landmark Jumeirah Mosque is unusual because non-Muslims

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are permitted to enter thanks to the ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ policy and a tour run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). General Manager Nasif Kayed explains the origins of the mosque’s architecture: “Egypt was the capital of the Islamic empire in the 1500s during the Fatimi era when mosques became quite famous for their interior and exterior domes. Jumeirah Mosque was built according to this style between 1977 and 1979 making it one of Dubai’s relatively older functioning

mosques,” he says. Even though it was the biggest mosque at the time it was located in a comparatively quiet area away from the busy Dubai Creek and the rest of the city has since grown up around it. “The detail of the architecture makes it really stand out,” says Kayed. “The intricate detail on the minarets and domes is amazing. We decided to start letting people enter because they wanted to see inside and that’s how the SMCCU actually started. We began running tours into the mosque and answering

FIND OUT MORE For information on Jumeirah Mosque tours call 04 3536666 or visit cultures.ae For more information on Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque call 04 3944448 or visit alfarooqcentre.com For more information on Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque tours call 02 4416444 or visit szgmc.ae

3 Tour of Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai 4 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi 5 Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque interior

questions about the purpose of the building as well as how Islam is practised.” Tours are conducted every day apart from Friday at 10am and guests are required to dress modestly. Nearby in the Al Safa area of Dubai, the Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque is based on the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and features sapphire-hued highlights on the white marble exterior. Following SMCCU’s pioneering cultural tours around Jumeirah Mosque, the Al Farooq Mosque which was opened in 2011 also welcomes non-Muslims to raise awareness of Arabic culture. With beautiful hand-crafted decorations both inside and out a tour is recommended in order to fully appreciate the splendour of this relatively new mosque. Another mosque open to non-Muslims is the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. It is the largest mosque in the UAE and the eighth largest in the world with a capacity for 41,000 worshippers at one time. Late president and founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan laid the cornerstone of this iconic landmark but died before its completion. His funeral was the mosque’s very first ceremony and the Sheikh was laid to rest in a garden on the grounds. The breathtaking white marble building boasts 82 domes, over 1,000 columns and the world’s largest knotted carpet. Goldplated chandeliers illuminate the intricately decorated interior. A spectacular sight, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is certainly a jewel in the crown of the UAE’s varied architecture.

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PHOT O E S S A Y/ DIS COVE R

Pillars of peace From gleaming white minarets to elaborately adorned interiors, Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh presents a portrait of the UAE's majestic mosques

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The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is the final resting place of the former UAE President. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan intended this magnificent house of worship to serve as a symbol of unity between people of different cultures and provide a source of understanding of the Islamic faith

The third largest mosque in the world, this impressive structure is wrought from the finest materials available sourced from across the globe. There are more than 1,000 columns at the mosque, many of them clad in marble and inlaid with mother of pearl while its 82 domes are tipped with gold.

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Pools running alongside the arched walkways reflect the mosque's spectacular columns. At night the stunning space is illuminated by a unique lightning system. Striking hues of blue and grey are projected onto the external walls and get brighter and darker according to the phase of the moon. Inside the main prayer hall hangs a spectacular 12-tonne chandelier adorned with Swarovski crystals. The pulpit or menbar, made from carved cedar wood, is where the imam sits to address worshippers in the main prayer hall.

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City mosques in Abu Dhabi provide an interesting architectural contrast against a modern urban backdrop. Five times a day the call to prayer sounds out across the city. The melodic chant is broadcast from mosque minarets summoning Muslims to gather for worship.

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Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai is one of the city's most beautiful sights. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding run tours inside the impressive building where visitors can admire intricate patterns on walls and ceilings which also boast stunning examples of Islamic calligraphy.

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Based on the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Al Farooq Omar Ibn Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai features 21 domes and 124 stained-glass windows. Distinctive design features inside include extraordinary examples of hand-painted Islamic art.

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Experience March of t he Peng uins

Meet some of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most loveable residents at winter wonderland Ski Dubai. The attraction is home to a colony of Gentoo and King penguins. Make some adorable new friends during a one-on-one Peng Friend encounter or watch the playful snow penguins in their splash pool. When: Daily, 12 to 9pm. How much: From AED175. Contact: 04 4094090

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The great indoors Beat the heat this summer at one of Dubai’s cool attractions Words by

Charlot t e Van de n Broucq ue

With the mercury rising it’s that time of year when visitors and residents start looking for things to help them cool down. Fortunately, there’s a plethora of entertainment to be had in the cool of the air-conditioned indoors. From sky diving inside to experiencing teeth chattering subzero temperatures in manmade snow, there are plenty of places offering a welcome retreat from the 100-degrees-Farenheit temperatures outside. One such venue is Ski Dubai – a year-round winter wonderland containing 22,500 square metres of real snow despite its location in the middle of the arid desert. Visit the snow dome for some on-piste action as well as dare-devil jumps, fun toboggans and the Aspen-inspired snow park as well as an incredible chance to meet a colony of Gentoo and King penguins. Continuing on the freezing theme, Chillout at Times Square mall offers food and beverages in a glacial minus-sixdegrees setting. For thrills and spills iFly at Mirdiff City Centre is Dubai’s first public indoor sky diving centre, offering those with a sense of adventure the chance to feel the rush of a free-fall without actually falling anywhere. Exciting rides await at indoor theme park SEGA Republic (pictured) in The Dubai Mall where there is also the opportunity to dive with sharks in Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Dubai has no shortage of exciting indoor destinations for a summer to remember.

s um m er A CT I V I T I ES / E XPE R IE NCE

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ramadan iftar buffet

Soup. Salads. Chicken. Beef. Fish. No matter what you’re feeling for iftar, we’ve got you covered.

special buffet at iftar from sunday to thursday Price 85 Dhs per person

Hard Rock Cafe a la Carte Menu available

dubai ®

dubai festival city

www.facebook.com/hrcdubai

+971-4-232-8900 hardrock.com/dubai

s um m er A CT I V I T I ES / E XPE R IE NCE

Ski Dubai Possibly the coldest place in the UAE, Ski Dubai makes a perfect chill-out destination. Brilliant for practising your on-piste technique, the green, blue, red and black runs ensure all abilities are catered for. A training slope away from the main piste is the ideal place to try skiing or snow boarding for the first time guided by one of Ski Dubai’s many trained instructors. If hitting the slope isn’t your thing then the world’s largest snow park awaits for

some family-friendly activities including tubing and zorbing. Just over a year ago two colonies of Gentoo and King penguins also made Ski Dubai their home, creating the first ever interactive penguin experience at the attraction where visitors can actually touch and even hug a penguin. Hire of all the equipment you could possibly need for a fun day out, including ski jackets, trousers, fleeces, boots, socks and gloves is included in the price. An impromptu session in the snow dome is still absolutely possible for those who have arrived at the mall dressed for the warm weather outside. Fun for all the family, this is an iconic Dubai activity certainly not to be missed. Where: Mall of the Emirates When: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight, Sat 9am to 11pm How much: Ski slope access from AED200, Snow Park access from AED140, penguin encounters from AED145 Contact: 04 4094000 or visit skidxb.com

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo At the heart of The Dubai Mall lies an incredible 10-million-litre tank of salt water that’s home to over 33,000 mysterious creatures of the deep. From tiny fish to sharks and stingrays, visitors can come face to face with these ocean dwellers in the 270-degree glass walk-through tunnel that lies 11 metres below the surface of the tank and offers spectacular views of its residents. If observing nature’s ultimate predator through the glass isn’t enough of a thrill, daily shark dives into the tank bring visitors up close and personal with these fascinating, if fearsome, fish. Non-certified divers and even those who can’t swim can take a short course at Al Boom Dive Centre to gain entry to the tank with the sharks. Three dives are held each day for a maximum of four people per session. Other exciting activities include cage snorkelling experiences, glass-bottomed boats and regular special exhibits at the Underwater Zoo. With a dedicated floor of creepy crawlies including snakes, insects, geckos, lizards, iguanas and amphibians as well as aquatic and arctic environments, kids especially will love this fun and educational experience. Where: The Dubai Mall When: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight How much: From AED55 for a Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo exhibit combo ticket. Dive packages start from AED290 Contact: 04 4485200 or visit thedubaiaquarium.com

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EXp e r i e nc e /summer A CTIV ITI ES

Chillout For another icy contrast to the blazing heat outside, this venue certainly has the cool factor. The trendy interior is chilled to a glacial minus six degrees, not only to maintain the unique ambience but also to keep the furniture from melting. Neon pink and blue lighting illuminates the clever space which also boasts innovatively designed tables, chairs, chandeliers and sculptures. The furniture has all been carefully carved from ice blocks where visitors can sit and relax with a beverage. Even the mocktails come served in a cup made of ice, but given the arctic conditions a mug of hot chocolate might warm more effectively. If this

is all sounding a bit on the cold side then fear not – all visitors are supplied with a thermal designer parker jacket, shoes and gloves before entering the frozen inner sanctum. If the temperature makes you peckish, hot food is available too. With an extensive menu there’s everything from warming soups, Oriental kebabs, chocolate fondant or sushi to try. Where: Times Square When: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight How much: AED60 admission includes a complimentary mocktail or hot chocolate Contact: 800 24455688 or visit chilloutatdubai.com

The trendy interior is chilled to a glacial minus six degrees, not only to maintain the unique ambience but also to keep the furniture from melting

SEGA Republic Thrill-seekers can enjoy high-octane fun at The Dubai Mall’s indoor theme park SEGA Republic. With five-themed zones to explore and no less than nine whiteknuckle rides, adrenaline enthusiasts are well catered for. Dare to ride the Halfpipe Canyon which spins riders through 360 degrees while swinging up and down a half-pipe at up to 40 kilometres per hour. Also not for the faint-hearted, the Sonic Hopper propels riders into the air before free falling almost 10 metres. For those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on terra firma, 250 arcade games

and a good selection of smaller rides are sure to provide plenty of entertainment for both adults and kids. Tickets won on the region’s largest assortment of redemption games can also be cashed in for prizes galore. Where: The Dubai Mall / When: Sun to Wed 10am to midnight, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am How much: The Pay & Play Pass allows you to top up credit as you go. Platinum Power Pass offers a day pass for all attractions plus AED200 credit for games for AED220 Contact: 04 4488484 or visit segarepublic.com

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RAMADAN KAREEM E N J OY T H E A R A B E S Q U E A M B I A N C E A N D S U M P T U O U S I F TA R B U F F E T TOG E T H E R W I T H TR A D I T I O N A L E M I R AT I D I S H E S AT Z A B E E L B A L L RO O M F O R O N LY D H S 10 9 P E R P E R S O N . S H A B E S TA N R E S TAU R A N T S E RV E S I F TA R B U F F E T F O R D H S 139 P E R P E R S O N A N D A L M A N S O U R D H OW C RU I S E I S AVA I L A B L E F O R P R I VAT E G RO U P S S TA RT I N G F RO M D H S 110.

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK Bani Yas Road, 476 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 205 7333 infocenter.dxbza@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaideiracreek

Special treatment Maximise your holiday glow with these innovative spa experiences

There is nothing quite like the blissful feeling that lingers as we leave the spa fresh from a relaxing treatment. Everyday stresses are forgotten for a while as we walk away feeling a little lighter and brighter, already planning the next soothing session. A glimpse of our reflection often reveals a healthy glow, perhaps the result of a refreshing facial or rejuvenating massage. More and more, luxury spa providers aim to prolong this desirable after-effect with spa treatments designed to enhance appearance and build on natural beauty. With a host of high-tech spa experiences on offer, these special sessions aspire to meet the needs of the discerning spa guest in search of noticeable results. A complement to the overall spa experience, there are plenty of treatment options to choose from whether the desired result is a youthful glow without a facelift, the appearance of a slimmed-down shape or a beautiful smile. Dubai’s finest spas stand ready to help clients look their absolute best for that next special occasion or evening out. Indulge in a little pamper and polish to stride from the spa looking sensational with Concierge’s guide to some of Dubai’s best beauty-enhancing treatments.

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S PA S / E XPE R IE NCE

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ShuiQi Spa & Fitness Innovations abound at this luxurious spa which offers clients an incredible choice of treatments. A beautiful and tranquil space has been created over two floors within Royal Towers where the stunning interior design enhances any visit. Stone steps provide a pathway over streaming waterways which lead to interconnecting treatment spaces decorated in muted tones with sleek finishes. Some of the finest spa treatments from around the globe are available including opulent bathing options, water

therapies and traditional massage sessions. A rising star at international spas, Rodial treatments target specific skin concerns with exclusive anti-ageing and firming ingredients. The ShuiQi Liquid Face Lift Ritual uses Rodial’s signature ‘dragon’s blood’ formula made from the sap of an Amazonian tree to add a ‘second skin’ protective film to the face which aims to reduce redness and inflammation while plumping up the skin for a more youthful complexion. An exclusive partnership with the London Centre for Aesthetics Surgery means ShuiQi Spa & Fitness is the only spa in the region to offer Mesotherapy to its guests. This unique treatment stimulates the mesoderm or middle layer of the skin with microinjections of vitamins, proteins, enzymes and homeopathic medicines. The aim is to help smooth fine lines while adding moisture. Guests can also ask for special formulas targeting age spots, freckles or the skin around the eyes. ShuiQi Spa & Fitness is also the only luxury hotel spa in the region to offer teeth whitening treatments. In the spa’s tranquil environment while listening to calming music, the expert dental team ensures each guest leaves feeling their best with professionally whitened and cleaned teeth. Where: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai When: Daily, 10am to 10pm. Teeth whitening Tue and Sat from 4 to 7pm / How much: ShuiQi Liquid Face Ritual AED620, Mesotherapy from AED3,500, teeth whitening from AED2,750 / Contact: 04 4261020

Designed to re-educate skin cells, the Caviar Signature Facial offers the ultimate recharging experience for the face. The reported healing properties of caviar provide an exceptionally luxurious facial Raffles Spa Gleaning inspiration from Asian, Middle Eastern and European traditions, this chic space boasts seven soothing treatment rooms, a private whirlpool and Raffles Botanical Garden to help clients make the most of the spa. The philosophy here is ‘observe the lotus’ on its journey from bud to blossom. A selection of transformative treatments embody this concept, none more so than K Lift by Kerstin Florian anti-ageing treatments. The Swedish luxury skincare brand has brought a new anti-ageing experience to Dubai. Its unique K Lift age-management programme is based on the technology of kinetic energy aiming to prevent and reverse the physical signs of ageing. Designed to re-educate skin cells, the Caviar Signature Facial offers the ultimate recharging experience for the face. The reported healing properties of caviar can provide an exceptionally luxurious facial. Rich in proteins and powerful antioxidants, the caviar aims to hydrate and lift the skin while simultaneously firming for an age-defying effect. The treatment is finished off with an Aculift Massage and moisturising Marine Biomatrix mask packed with ingredients that aim to leave the skin looking healthy and luminescent. Where: Raffles Dubai / When: Daily, 9am to 9pm How much: From AED1,099 / Contact: 04 3149870

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S PA S / E XPE R IE NCE

Safar Spa Check into this soothing spa where the speciality is invigorating deep tissue massages to leave you feeling thoroughly refreshed and renewed. Calming interiors at this rooftop venue add to a sense of relaxation. A varied selection of treatments aims to give clients an improved appearance from post-flight pick-me-ups to sessions combating jet lag administered by professionally trained beauty therapists and spa experts. The Contouring Body Treatment focuses attention on the whole body with a firming massage designed as an hour-long slimming treatment for clients hoping to leave the spa feeling a little lighter. The Youthful Lift Facial Treatment is customised according to the needs of each guest and includes a deep cleanse, the application of a mask and an anti-ageing moisturiser to give skin a smoother look. Where: Mövenpick Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate / When: Daily, 11am to 10pm How much: From AED499 per person for 60 minutes / Contact: 04 4445421

Zen the spa Discover a fusion of treatments based on holistic Asian philosophies with a contemporary twist at this spacious spa. Thoughtful design details include a tranquil water feature that greets guests as they book in. A myriad of treatment rooms are tucked along labyrinthine corridors which convey a sense of privacy and calm. For those in search of a long-lasting youthful glow, the Damask Rose Anti-Ageing Facial is a must. Specifically designed for dry and lacklustre skin, the treatment focuses two hours of attention on the face. Nourishing properties of rose and frankincense smooth and revitalise to gently encourage renewal as natural essences are massaged into the skin concentrating on the areas most affected by ageing. The spa’s professionals also recommend coupling the facial with the Herbal Compress Massage which combines Eastern massage techniques with light pressure patting, rolling and kneading. Heat from a compress carries the herbal essences and essential oils deep into the skin’s tissue for a warm, comforting experience that stimulates the body to heal and detoxify for a lasting glow. Where: Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana / When: Daily, 10am to 10pm / How much: Damask Rose Anti-Ageing Facial from AED450, Herbal Compress Massage from AED400 / Contact: 04 2933000

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Taste Plantation Lounge

French colonial design themes lend an inviting feel to this eatery at Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach. Shades of blues and greens complement walnut flooring and linen pendant lights. Enjoy delicious pastries and light meals all served with a French twist. This delightful dish of scallops, beetroot, truffle vinaigrette and fig salad is one to try. Contact: 04 4484848

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Sunset spread Break the fast in style this Ramadan with Concierge’s pick of the city’s best iftars Words by

Charlot t e Van de n Broucq ue

The holy month is a time of deep, spiritual reflection for followers of the faith that abstain from food and drink during daylight hours to bring them closer to God. During Ramadan, as the sun begins to lower in the sky and heads towards the horizon, the day’s fasting is about to conclude for millions of Muslims all over the world in a meal called iftar. As the sun sets Muslims prepare to break their lengthy fast, first by eating dates and camel milk. Following this brief snack the fourth prayer of the day known as maghrib takes place after which the full meal of iftar can be enjoyed. “For every family it’s a special evening,” says Nasif Kayed, General Manager of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. He adds: “During Ramadan every evening you sit down together. Extended family, neighbours and friends are often invited too, so it’s a big event.” There are many traditional foods which are prepared typically during Ramadan. Author Ali Alsaloom says: “In the UAE, a typical iftar meal consists of a meal of harees, thareed and green salad.” Harees consists of coarsely ground wheat cooked with butter and meat while thareed combines layers of crisp f latbread with a meat and vegetable soup. The menu will also often feature Middle Eastern-inspired mezze as well as roasted meats and rice or cous cous. Baklava sweets made of pastry, nuts, dates and honey are also typically enjoyed during this time. “When we enjoy our iftar we like to show appreciation for the food we eat in a very respectful manner. When I fast, it teaches me a lesson. I learn how it feels to not have any food for several hours. I learn to empathise with the poor and hungry and I that makes me more thankful towards God who blessed us with food,” adds Alsaloom. While many families will prepare iftar at home or enjoy the breaking of the fast at the mosque, most hotels offer lavish buffets where diners can choose from a huge variety of traditional as well as more contemporary cuisines. Whether you’re adhering to the holy month or are keen to enter into the spirit of Ramadan which is expected to take place between July 9 to August 7, these impressive iftars are open to all who wish to enjoy delicious Middle Eastern and international fare. Let Concierge be your guide to the very best of this year’s delicious iftars.

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AL IWAN, BURJ AL ARAB

I FT A R/ T A S T E

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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.

July Programme Exhibitions

Birth of a Museum until 20 July Eco Future The Saadiyat Story

Workshops

1 July 17:30 Louvre Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series Family Workshop

8 July 13:00 Birth of a Museum Family Workshop: An Artful Afternoon Tea

2 July 17:30 Louvre Abu Dhabi: Talking Art Series Family Workshop

10 July 11:00 Birth of a Museum Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workshop: Creatures Great and Small

3 July 17:00 Birth of a Museum Adult Workshop: Artistic Sketching Techniques

10 July 11:00 Birth of a Museum Teen Workshop: Photographing Art

6 July 14:00 Eco Future Workshop: Handmade Eco Paper

20 July 11:00 Birth of a Museum Teen Workshop: Artistic Sketching Techniques

6 July 14:00 Birth of a Museum Adult Workshop: Moving Forms

20 July 11:00 Birth of a Museum Adult Workshop: Metal Etching

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. Opening hours will change during Ramadan, 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

Saadiyat CD

6/17/13 4:42 PM

I FT A R/ T A S T E

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Best for a luxurious experience The spectacular dedicated beachfront tent at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai certainly is a sight to behold. The Asateer tent will serve a traditional sunset iftar buffet from 6.30 to 8pm followed by an Ă la carte sohour meal later on in the evening. The majestic space is draped with

stylish curtains and bedecked with chandeliers and lanterns for an impressive, palatial feel. Channelling the golden era of Arabia, oud and tableh players set the mood with traditional music. Tables of authentic food as well as live cooking stations provide the perfect way to break the fast. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes such as foul moudammas, a lemon fava bean dip, or balila which is a dish of chickpeas seasoned with garlic, lemon and cumin. A variety of fresh Ramadan juices is also on offer including jallab made of date syrup and rose water. Asateer will also be introducing signature dishes such as stuffed mini pancakes and assorted grilled Arabian meats. A giant confectionary centrepiece is set to tantalise with a Turkish delight and nougat station. Where: Asateer, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai When: Iftar from 6.30 to 8pm How much: AED185 per person, children under 12 AED85, children under three free Contact: 04 4262626 or visit atlantisthepalm.com

The majestic space is draped with stylish curtains and bedecked with chandeliers and lanterns for an impressive, palatial feel

Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa Best for a blend of traditional and contemporary Located on the beachfront close to The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, the five-star Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa will play host to two iftars this Ramadan. For a modern Arabian experience Al Dhiyafa restaurant in the hotel lobby provides a familyfriendly international buffet including traditional Arabic food and live cooking stations. For a taste of authentic Arabia, the Alissar Ramadan tent is perfect for larger groups with its 600-person capacity and sophisticated surroundings. White drapes and chairs are complemented with chic purple and gold accents and ambient lighting from Arabic lanterns. A huge selection of regional dishes includes mixed grills, hearty soups, hot and cold mezze, fresh juices and traditional sweets. Diners can also enjoy shisha complete with a wide variety of aromatic tobacco f lavours. Where: Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa When: Iftar from sunset until 8.30pm, sohour from 9pm to 3am How much: Al Dhiyafa iftar from AED159 per person, Alissar iftar from AED169 per person / Contact: 04 4084257

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T A ST E/IFTA R

The Address Downtown Dubai Best for post-shopping iftar With its enviable location in the centre of Downtown Dubai and just minutes from The Dubai Mall, The Address Downtown Dubai is the ideal venue to break the fast after a productive shopping session. Fazaris restaurant typically serves a fusion of Japanese and Italian dishes but in celebration of the holy month a more traditional, regionally themed buffet will be served. Arabic coffees and succulent dates open the hotel’s offering followed by local favourites including mezze and grilled mains. Large windows reveal stunning views of Downtown Dubai, the glittering Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain. The authentic music of a live Arabic duo will fill the room with soothing sounds of the Middle East as you dine. Where: The Address Downtown Dubai When: Iftar from sunset until 9pm How much: Fazaris iftar AED185 per person or a special corporate rate starts from AED155 per person / Contact: 04 8883444

Burj Al Arab Best for gourmet fare Opt for a sensational gourmet experience within the stunning surroundings of one of the world’s most luxurious hotels, Burj Al Arab. This iconic Dubai destination offers a fine-dining iftar feast in two of its acclaimed restaurants, Al Iwan and Bab Al Yam. Al Iwan specialises in Arabic delicacies and is located in

the heart of the world’s tallest atrium, set among the Burj Al Arab’s famous towering golden columns. Alternatively, Bab Al Yam is a chic poolside eatery where the finest international cuisine is served in an authentic and ambient setting. Expect lavish buffetstyle cuisine from all around the world served at this chic dining destination. The expert culinary team at this opulent hotel has designed a superb selection of traditional iftar delicacies to be presented at each restaurant. Gourmet dishes to savour include oven-roasted Gulf fish, grilled vegetables and Arabic baby lamb with saffron rice are some of the delights on offer. A wide choice of Arabic juices accompanies each feast such as jallab which is a Lebanese-style date juice and Tamer Hindi an Iranian juice. Where: Burj Al Arab When: Throughout Ramadan How much: Iftar buffet menu from AED290 per person / Contact: 04 3017600

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RAMADAN KAREEM

A TRADITIONAL RAMADAN FEAST YOU MUST BE A PART OF This Ramadan, come and enjoy Iftar buffet with loved ones for only AED 155 per person, at Celsius Restaurant. Cherish the true essence of a traditional Ramadan experience with authentic Arabic food and mezzas, Ramadan drinks and a selection of fine dates. Don’t miss our book for 10 and pay for 8 offer! Or take advantage of our early booking special, and book before July 15th so you can receive a 15% discount on your total bill. Our catering team is ready to host any size event for you and your guests, so call us today to arrange a private Iftar or Sohour for this festive season. As a bonus your event will also earn you points with Club Carlson for Planners. • Children under 5 years eat free and children ages 6 to 12 get a 50% discount. • Terms and conditions apply.

Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Sheikh Zayed Rd. Dubai, UAE +971 4 308 0550 rric.royaldubai@radissonblu.com radisson.com/royal-dubai Follow us on RadissonRoyalDubai RadissonRoyal

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The perfect blend

For a true taste of local life savour a delicious Arabic coffee Caramel-coloured beans bubble on the stove at just the right temperature before the dark frothy liquid is poured into a highly polished jug. A distinct aroma fills the air as Arabica beans fuse with cardamom to form a special blend. As the coffee is poured into traditional finjaan cups, a sense of ceremony surrounds the occasion. More than a symbol of Emirati warmth and hospitality, Arabic coffee, also known as khaleeji, is revered as an important reminder of local traditions and time gone by. Coffee was first popularised in the Arab world where warm conditions were ripe for cultivating beans. The social aspect of gathering to enjoy the drink soon made the activity central to community life here, long before coffee drinking caught on in Europe. The first cultivation of coffee was in Yemen where it was given the Arabic name qahwa from which the words coffee

and cafĂŠ both derive. Mystics in Yemen initially used coffee to improve concentration. By 1414 the practice of drinking coffee had spread throughout the Middle East. A warming drink to comfort in cool night-time desert temperatures, Bedouin cooked coffee in copper pots on beds of coal in the sand over an open fire. Retaining much of the same method, ground beans are to this day boiled rather than filtered or percolated and served in small cups intended to be enjoyed straight away. Arabic coffeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive taste comes from the addition of spices such as saffron and cardamom, which can give the drink a green hue. The beans, lighter in colour than American or European varieties, are lightly roasted and ground with cardamom before being boiled for around 15 to 20 minutes. Additional blends are infused with saffron, cloves or rose water to offer alternative flavours. Once boiled on the stove in a copper pot known as a kezveh, the coffee is transferred to a copper pot or jug known as a dallah which is often characterised by a long spout.

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L OCA L FL A V OUR/ t a s t e

An example of the dallah’s elegant shape can be seen on the one dirham coin which bears an image of the jug–a further testament to the importance of Arabic coffee within local culture. The drink is then served in small cups known as finjaan which are poured a quarter full. The coffee is then intended to be enjoyed straight away without stirring so the liquid rising to the top can be savoured first. Arabic coffee is rarely served with milk or sugar to allow the strength of flavour to come through. Instead a sweet side offering such as dates often accompanies the drink. A cornerstone of the famous Emirati hospitality, Arabic coffee is normally offered to guests visiting a home here. Etiquette requires at least one cup is taken from the host who will pour the coffee as guests are warmly welcomed. It is polite to drink

More than a symbol of Emirati warmth and hospitality, Arabic coffee, also known as khaleeji, is revered as an important reminder of local traditions and times gone by

1 Bedouin brewing a pot of Arabic coffee the traditional way 2 Flowing conversation goes hand in hand with the Arabic coffee experience 3 The coffee is served from a jug known as a dallah 4 Dates often accompany coffee

REGIONAL BLENDS Arabic coffee comes from the Arabica bean which originates from the Coffea tree found in the mountains of Yemen. A variety of blends and brewing styles have originated throughout the Middle East. Turkish coffee is the thicker darker drink and is usually a lot stronger with foam on top and grounds at the bottom. Turkish coffee is also often served sweetened. Saudi Arabian blends, known as Al-Qahwa tend to be very strong and are recognisable by a green hue. Emirati coffees tend to have a strong, bitter flavour with cardamom or rose water added and is never sweetened. Dates are served alongside instead.

from a cup held in the right hand. A circular swirl of the cup is usually considered as an indication that you have finished. Arabic coffee is also served at social gatherings, business meetings and during special occasions such as Ramadan during iftar, the meal that breaks the fast each day. A traditional dallah coffee pot makes a wonderful memento from a visit to Dubai and the city’s souks and malls have a beautiful selection to choose from. There are also plenty of opportunities for visitors to Dubai to enjoy an authentic Arabic coffee with a host of traditional cafés, souks and even shopping malls offering the chance to enjoy the delicious drink. Some of the city’s finest hotels offer a chic setting in which to relax with a delicious local coffee. Al Bayt at The Palace Downtown Dubai presents a truly palatial Arabian atmosphere with breathtaking panoramas of the lake and The Dubai Fountain. This is a wonderful venue to taste some of the heavenly blends on offer. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is the city’s oldest quarter filled with examples of traditional architecture and as such, is a special space to soak up some of the region’s character. Explore the many art cafés and restaurants to be found among some of the city’s oldest buildings and wind towers. Sit back and watch the world go by as you linger over a delightful local blend of traditional Arabic coffee.

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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

04 3198999

An elegant mall featuring 50 premium boutiques and fine-dining restaurants spread over two floors. Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 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

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.

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

04 5154000

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

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

04 3461462

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

04 3622222

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

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

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

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

BUYING TIME Dubai is peppered with world-renowned shopping malls and those in the market for a bit of retail therapy should direct their attention to Mall of the Emirates, which offers a large selection of designer brands including Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Chlo Chloé (pictured). The mall is also home to Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski slope. For details visit malloftheemirates.com

1. The Dubai Mall 2. Omega Constellation Sedna 3. Royal Fashion Men's Tailors 4. Mall of the Emirates 5. Ibn Battuta Mall 6. Souk Al Bahar

THE DUBAI MALL

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

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

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

800 6422

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

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

06 5316611

Dubai Festival City/Deira

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

Timings: Sun to Tue 10am to 10pm. Wed, Thu Sat 10am to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya

AL GHURAIR CITY

04 2225222

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

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

Souks

ARABIAN CENTRE

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

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

04 4285665 4

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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RAMADAN Opening hours at many malls and attractions across Dubai change for the duration of the holy month. It is advisable to call ahead. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops and outlets. There are many ATMs around the city and foreign currencies and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged in licensed exchange offices, hotels and banks. A passport is required. Souks give an authentic shopping experience offering everything from spices to gold. Put your bargaining skills to the test.

04 2845555

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

in the know

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

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 COvent garden market dubai

050 4250543

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

Timings: Wed and Thu

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

label stable Aigner, TDM, MOE Alexander McQueen FA, MOE Armani Collezioni BV, FA Balenciaga BV, MOE Bally TDM Boutique 1 MOE, TW Brioni FA, MOE Bugatti BJ, MOE, Wafi Bulgari BV, MOE, TDM Burberry BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Calvin Klein BJ, FA, Wafi Calvin Klein Underwear DCC, DFC, MOE Carolina Herrera FA, MOE Cartier BJ, BV, MOE, TDM Cerruti 1881 Wafi Chanel BJ, FA, Wafi Christian Lacroix BJ Christian Louboutin FA, MOE Chloe BV, FA Dior BJ, FA, MOE Dunhill DFC, TDM DKNY BJ, MOE, TDM Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE Elie Saab FA Emporio Armani BV, MOE, FA Ermano Scervino TDM Ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE Escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Etro TDM, MOE, BJ Etoile La Boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio Armani BV, MOE, TDM Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo Boss BJ, FA, MOE John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA, MOE Kenzo BJ, FA Lancel TDM Lanvin BV, FA Louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi Prada BJ, MOE, TDM Ralph Lauren BJ, FA, MOE Roberto Cavalli FA, MOE, Wafi Rocco Barocco DMM, TDM, Wafi Salvatore Ferragamo BJ, FA, MOE Saks Fifth Avenue BJ Stella McCartney FA, MOE Tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Van Cleef & Arpels TDM, MOE Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Yves Saint Laurent BV, MOE, TDM BJ BurJuman (04 3520222) BV Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 3198999) DCC Deira City Centre, (04 2954486) DFC Dubai Festival City, (04 2325444) DMM Dubai Marina Mall, (04 4361000) FA Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422) MOE Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747) TDM The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) TW The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 3900091) Wafi Wafi Shopping Centre (04 3244555)

20/06/2013 15:46

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 JUN13.indd 70

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. Dhow building 2. Palm Jumeirah 3. The Majlis Gallery 4. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood 5. Dubai skyline

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

20/06/2013 15:41

t he gui d e / dis cove r

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.

FALCON 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.

The falcon is not only a national symbol of the UAE but a majestic bird that has played a significant role in the country's development. The impressive predators were crucial to early Bedouin life as they strived to carve out an existence in the harsh desert conditions. Falcons were trained to hunt for food. Teaching the birds was a fascinating process that saw a close bond form between handler and bird. The same is true today although the birds are used purely for sport. Annual falcon championships are hugely popular and sees falcons purchased and trained for the duration of the hunting season before the birds are once again returned to the wild. Today the importance of the falcon to UAE culture and history is seen in many examples as the bird is represented on banknotes, official documents, paintings and architecture.

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

Museums

History in the making The earliest known habitation in this part of the world dates back as far as 5500 BCE. However, it was in 1971, when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi's ruler from 1966 to 2004, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990, set the wheels in motion with their neighbouring sheikhdoms, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ajman (Ras Al Khaimah joined in 1972) to form an alliance. Prior to this, the seven emirates had lived in relative harmony, united through a protectorate treaty with Great Britain, which earned them the name the Trucial States. It was a successful partnership, but in 1968 the United Kingdom ended the treaty. In order to maintain security, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid reached out to their neighbours and in 1971 they signed an agreement, which signified the creation of the United Arab Emirates.

DUBAI MUSEUM

04 3531862

Dubai’s most comprehensive museum features a rich collection of aerial photographs of 'old' Dubai, an assortment of multimedia exhibits and a wide variety of artefacts. This museum, located inside the impressive Al Fahidi Fort, provides visitors with an in-depth history of the emirate.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) Map reference: E1 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: LOCAL DIALECT Arabic is the official language of the UAE, although English is widely understood by most, using some common Arabic phrases is appreciated: Marhaba – Hi or welcome Shukran – Thank you Afwan – You’re welcome Ma’asalama – Goodbye Sabah el kheer – Good morning Masaa el Kheer – Good evening Law samaht – Excuse me

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB JUN13.indd 71

20/06/2013 15:41

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

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

ORIENT TOURS

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 04 2949888

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

Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED1,199

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

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.

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

04 2682880

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

04 3572233

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

1. Desert safari 2. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi 3. Skydiving 4. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall

ALPHA TOURS

Call individual tour operators for times and prices

04 3034888

04 2629993/050 7548466

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JUL13.indd 72

20/06/2013 15:43

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

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 semi-automatic paintball guns and the latest anti-fog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED80 includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Karting

Shooting

(see Sports)

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

oN TOP OF THE WORLD

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

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

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

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(pictured) at 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

DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

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)

04 3244555

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

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

Amusements & attractions

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

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: AED235 for visitors over 1.3m tall, AED195 for visitors below 1.3m. 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.

SEGA REPUBLIC

04 4488484

At the Top Marvel at unparalleled views of Dubai from At the Top, the remarkable observation deck in the Burj Khalifa. Located on the 124th floor of the world's tallest building, visits last around 60 minutes so there is ample time to make the most of the incredible photographic opportunities to be had. Take in stunning vistas of the city and beyond from this marvellous viewpoint. Super-swift, futuristic elevators take visitors to the top of this iconic structure in record time.Tickets may be purchased at the ticket office near the entrance to At the Top on the lower ground floor of The Dubai Mall or in advance online. General admission for adults costs AED125 when booking a dated and timed ticket. For children, dated and timed entry costs AED95. For more information contact 800 AT THE TOP(28843867) or visit

burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck

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

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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.

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

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.

Timings: Shows Mon to Thu

Timings: Daily from

11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED120 adults; AED80 children THE LOST CHAMBERS

04 4260000

04 3340808

Waterparks

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

AQUA PLAY

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JUL13.indd 75

04 3484444

04 3369773

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

ENCOUNTER ZONE

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

Edutainment

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

04 3241222/04 3243222

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

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

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

An interactive science and cultural centre.

Animal magnetism

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

SPLASHLAND

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

10am to 6pm

Guide price: AED225

adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free

Fly a falcon Visitors can learn how to handle falcons at Al Shaeen Xtreme Falconry at the Desert Conservation Reserve. This national park is dedicated to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of the Arabian Desert. Location: Al Ain Road Contact: 04 4356550 Dive with sharks Head to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and take on 10,000 pounds of lean muscle, not to mention 10,000 razor-sharp teeth. This underwater zoo is home to the largest number of captive sand tiger sharks in the world. Location: The Dubai Mall Contact: 04 3422993 Play with penguins Interact with penguins as part of the PengFriend programme at Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates. The 40-minute encounters are guided by professional snow penguin trainers and include one-to-one time and the opportunity to take pictures. Location: Mall of the Emirates Contact: 04 4094090 Horseride by moonlight Mushrif Equestrian & Polo Club offers early morning rides and moonlight tours. The moonlit tour is held on the night of the full moon, which is expected to take place on September 30. Location: Al Khawaneej Contact: 04 2571256

Golf AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

I WANT

TO EXPERIENCE THE ESSENCE OF RAMADAN PLEASE

Make it a Ramadan to remember and gather with your friends and family at Centro Barsha.

04 6010111

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

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

Break your fast at c.taste with a traditional Iftar buffet for just AED 90* per person and enjoy an extensive array of Arabic specialties and coffee. Or join us later and take your pick from our delicious Suhour à la carte selection, for only AED 60*.

04 3663000

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

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

Experience the true essence of the holy month and grab our special group offer, where for every booking of 10 people, the 2 enjoy for free.

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

For more information and reservations, please visit rotanatimes.com or call +971 (0)4 704 0000.

*The price is inclusive of 10% service charge and 10% municipality fee

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

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

Green fees: Majlis Course

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

Barsha, P.O. Box 115060, Dubai, U.A.E. T: +971 (0)4 704 0000 F: +971 (0)4 399 0111 centro.barsha@rotana.com

23/06/2013 11:32

A special place for a special time

This Ramadan feel the spirit with Rose Rayhaan by Rotana* - join us with family and friends at Petals Restaurant for a special Iftar buffet for only AED 139** per person inclusive of traditional Ramadan beverages, soft drinks and mineral water and make it a moment to treasure. Special rates are available for group bookings whereby 1 in every 10 guests gets to dine for free. Our private dining venue is also available for groups of 40 or more guests. For more information and reservations, please visit rotanatimes.com or call +971(0)4 323 0111. *Ideally located on Sheikh Zayed road, the hotel is a step away from Financial Centre metro station. **Price is inclusive of 10% municipality fee and 10% service charge.

P.O. Box: 126452, Dubai, UAE. T: +971 (0)4 323 0111, F: +971 (0)4 323 0222, rose.rayhaan@rotana.com

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

AdrenalinE adventures Dubai boasts an array of high-octane experiences for the visitor looking for an action-packed stay. Kitesurf Dubai Kitesurfing is a unique water sport that enables you to harness the power of the wind. Using only a board, to which feet are bound, and a large kite, kitesurfers can control the wind to reach speeds of up to 50 knots. 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 incredible views.

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

5. Dubai Desert Classic 6. Scuba diving 7. Rock climbing 8. Wake boarding

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. 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 EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

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

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

04 8836000

Enjoy the natural desert 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)

call of the wild There is a host of oncein-a-lifetime encounters to had with some amazing animals at major Dubai attractions. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is teaming with creatures of the deep. Located at The Dubai Mall, visitors can gaze at the sea life and walk through a viewing tunnel underneath the vast tank. For more marine adventures try swimming with dolphins and experience the magic of meeting these unique creatures at Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm Dubai or Dubai Dolphinarium . Get up close with prize thoroughbreds on a stable tour at Meydan Racecourse. See the horses work out on treadmills and in swimming pools.

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JUL13.indd 78

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

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.

DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

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

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

riding from AED200

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: From AED55

Ice skating

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: Call for details Guide price: AED70 for two

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire DUBAI ICE RINK

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED55 for two hours

Karting DUBAI AUTODROME

04 3678744

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

30 minutes

Mini golf 04 8523221

04 3402408

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

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

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

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

06 5487777

One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.

Skiing SKI DUBAI

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Watersports

DESERT RANGERS

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

04 8836555

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

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

02 5629050

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

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

Guide price: AED6,400

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

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

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

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

Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED180 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

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

050 5592131

04 2573084

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

04 3618111

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED115

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

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

Polo

9. Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club 10. Ice Rink, The Dubai Mall 11. Karting

050 5517280

Shooting

Mountainbiking

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

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

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

04 2096000

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

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

for four hours

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

GALLERIA ICE RINK

04 3941669

YAS Racing School

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 4485111

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

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

Guide price:

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

23/06/2013 11:09

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

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

Umm Suqeim

The Palm Jumeirah

04 3668888

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

Choices offers a wonderful array of international dishes to enjoy with theme nights throughout the week 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

Liwan boasts a high woodcanopied ceiling with modern décor. Glass-block 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 delicious international selection offering an array of cuisine with live cooking to watch all the kitchen action alongside an à 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 Favourite sports bar, Nezesaussi Grill is a popular spot with good food. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Head to Pergolas for fine international fare and seafood. Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Lebanese Pergolas – International Zaika Restaurant – Indian

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB JULY13.indd 80

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 Benihana where the finest Japanese food awaits. For gourmet Italian dishes served in a beautiful setting with views out to the Arabian Gulf you might like to pay a visit to Rosso. 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 Chic eatery Armani/Hashi offers an array of contemporary dishes such as sushi and tempura. 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

The property’s signature restaurant Sonamu offers fine Korean cuisine and is ideal for those seeking a 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. Hanabi – Japanese Lamesa – Filipino Sea World – Seafood Sonamu – Korean Yuraku – Japanese

04 4260000

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

Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant offers the ultimate Ramadan experience with a bounty of Arabic delicacies at live cooking stations. There are also complimentary camel rides for children. From AED195 per person.

1. Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, Meliá Dubai 2. Blue Flame, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel 3. Ossigeno, Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa 4. Pai Thai, Madinat Jumeirah Hotel – Dar Al Masyaf

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

Enjoy the finest in Arabic fare at Al Iwan restaurant where a sensational iftar is offered this Ramadan. Ovenroasted Gulf fish, grilled vegetables and Arabic baby lamb with saffron rice are some of the delights on offer. A wide choice of Arabic juices will also be served. Priced at AED290 per person. 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

20/06/2013 16:30

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. Then 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 Al Dana restaurant offers an eclectic selection of international dishes and traditional Arabic delicacies. 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 Beer Café boasts a hearty selection of tasty fare including delicious waffles and a range of beverages. 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 and delicious gourmet meals at chic restaurant The Observatory. A Dubai favourite, this classy eatery offers a sophisticated dining experience and luxuriously designed interiors. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road Enjoy the finest in Italian cuisine at PAX which also boasts stunning views across Dubai. Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International

Fairmont Dubai

04 3325555

Sheikh Zayed Road Gourmet international dishes are the order of the day at Spectrum on One. 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 Home to a variety of highend restaurants. Guests dining before 8pm receive a 30 percent discount off the food bill during the summer months. Offer available at Flow Kitchen, Seagrill on 25° Restaurant and Frevo. Frevo - Brazilian Flow Kitchen – International Mashrabiya Lounge – Lounge The Cigar Room – Lounge Seagrill on 25° Restaurant & Lounge - Seafood The Cigar Room - Lounge Delicacy - Deli

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

09 2449888

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

Grand Hyatt Dubai

04 3171234 Oud Metha

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

Enjoy a memorable iftar at Atrium restaurant for AED175 per person. Start with a selection of soups and cold appetisers followed by an array of traditional main courses and live cooking stations. Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian Exit 36 – Garden venue

DINE BY CUISINE ARABIC Mawal – Al Bustan Rotana The Courtyard Restaurant – Al Manzil Hotel Mawal – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Khaymat Al Bahar – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Didon – Auris Plaza Hotel, Al Barsha Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Al Tannour – Crowne Plaza Dubai Sakura – Crowne Plaza Dubai Al Khayma – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Al Qasr – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa The Sushi Café – Fairmont Dubai Awtar – Grand Hyatt Dubai Al Basha – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Shahrzad – Hyatt Regency Dubai Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Al Khaima – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Al Diwan – Metropolitan Palace Hotel Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Café Arabesque – Park Hyatt Dubai The Lounge – Park Hyatt Dubai Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Topkapi – Taj Palace Hotel Na3Na3 – The Address Dubai Mall Al Bayt – The Palace Downtown Dubai Ewaan – The Palace Downtown Dubai Amaseena – The RitzCarlton Dubai

ASIAN Benihana – Al Bustan Rotana Blue Elephant, Al Bustan Rotana Pai Thai – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Benihana – Amwaj Rotana Armani/Hashi – Armani Hotel Dubai Hanabi – Asiana Hotel Yuraku – Asiana Hotel Asia Republic – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Nobu – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Saffron – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Al Iwan – Burj Al Arab Junsui – Burj Al Arab Sho-Cho – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Thai Bistro – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Benjarong – Dusit Thani Dubai Peppercrab – Grand Hyatt Dubai Sushi – Grand Hyatt Dubai Wox – Grand Hyatt Dubai Toshi – Grand Millennium Dubai Buddha Bar – Grosvenor House, Dubai Siddharta Lounge – Grosvenor House, Dubai Summer Palace Chinese

Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Miyako – Hyatt Regency Dubai Shanghai Chic – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel White Orchid – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Beachcombers – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Nomad – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel ET Sushi – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hakkasan – Jumeirah Emirates Towers The Noodle House – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Tokyo@thetowers – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Zheng He’s, Mina A’ Salam – Madinat Jumeirah Rooftop Terrace – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Wok-In Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Deira Eau Zone – One&Only Royal Mirage The Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai Minato – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Sumibiya – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek The China Club – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Yum – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Icho – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Indothai – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Tomo – Raffles Dubai Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Creekside – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Peacock – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Sakura – Taj Palace Hotel Hukama – The Address Downtown Dubai Okku – The H Hotel Dubai Shiba – The Meydan FAI – The Palace Downtown Dubai Thiptara – The Palace Downtown Dubai Blue Rain – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Spice Emporium – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

INDIAN Zaika Restaurant – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Armani/Amal – Armani Hotel Dubai Masala – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa iZ – Grand Hyatt Dubai Indigo by Vineet – Grosvenor House, Dubai Chor Bazaar – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Amala – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Meliá Dubai Chutney’s – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Ashiana – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Handi – Taj Palace Hotel

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

Ronda Locatelli – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Pizzeria Le Dune – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Majlis Al Bahar – Burj Al Arab Cucina Italian Kitchen – Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Al Fresco – Crowne Plaza Dubai Capanna Nuova – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Flooka – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Az.u.r – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Pax – Dusit Thani Dubai Andiamo! – Grand Hyatt Dubai Dante – Grand Millennium Dubai Luciano’s – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Soda Box – Hotel Pullman Mall of the Emirates Foccacia – Hyatt Regency Dubai Cubo Pasta – Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Mistral – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Sicilia – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel La Traviata – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Carnevale – Jumeirah Beach Hotel La Veranda – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Biscotti – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Mosaico – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Brunello Restaurant – Kempinski Hotel & Residences, Palm Jumeirah The MED – Media One Hotel Prego’s – Media Rotana Dubai Sketch – Metropolitan Palace Hotel La Plaza – Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Frankie’s – Oasis Beach Tower Thyme Restaurant – Oasis Beach Tower 101 – One&Only The Palm, Dubai La Moda – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Certo – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Vivaldi – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Rococo – Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Verdi – Taj Palace Hotel Shades – The Address Dubai Marina Bas Pasta – The Meydan Splendido – The RitzCarlton Dubai

Bussola – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

SEAFOOD Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Seaworld – Asiana Hotel Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fish Bazaar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Divaz – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Mi Vida – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Ossigeno – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Pizzeria – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Beach Bar & Grill – One&Only Royal Mirage Fish Market – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Al Mersat Restaurant – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Amwaj – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Zeta – The Address Downtown Dubai

STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Drive – Al Bustan Rotana MJ’s, Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah Seafire – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Western Steakhouse – Crowne Plaza Dubai The Exchange Grill – Fairmont Dubai The Grand Grill – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Terra Firma – InterContinental Dubai Festival City Blue Flame – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel 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

L'Olivo Rixos The Palm Dubai

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

Sloane’s is serving a special iftar set menu this month complete with traditional helpings of lentil soup and dates. Meals are priced at AED250 per person. 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 From sunset to 8.30pm each evening this month, Al Dhiyafa offers a family-friendly iftar that includes live cooking stations and Middle Eastern and international delicacies. From AED159 per person.

5. Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab 6. Eauzone, One&Only Royal Mirage 7. Asado, The Palace Downtown Dubai 8. STAY by Yannick Alléno, One&Only The Palm

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 pool and watch your favourite films at Movies Under The Stars nights every Thursday and Friday. Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Hilton Dubai Creek

04 2271111 Deira

Award-winning chefs Scott Price and Nick Alvis' table9 by nick and scott offers elegant cuisine in an intimate setting. Or you may like to try Issimo Bar & Lounge for the relaxing ambience offered at this lively sports bar.

Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by nick and scott – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Savour sublime Italian food at this award-winning restaurant. Sleek interiors at BiCE Ristorante add to the ambience at this elegant evening-out destination. For a lively evening out Pachanga offers delicious Latin American flavours in a vibrant atmosphere. 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. Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar

hyatt regency dubai

04 2091234 Deira

This Ramadan treat yourself to the ultimate iftar experience at Al Dawaar. Available from sunset to 8.30pm. Priced at AED170 per person including traditional Ramadan drinks. Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub

04 2308555

Blue Flame will this month be serving foie gras dishes following the Nivo programme where exceptionally high ethical standards of production are reinforced. Available Monday to Friday from 6 to 11pm. Plumeria – Healthy café Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Cuban Nomad – Asian Crimson Gallery - Afternoon tea

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

04 3300000 DIFC

Enjoy an authentic iftar in an air-conditioned marquee at Al Nafoorah this month from sunset to 9pm, priced at AED170 per person. Alfie's – English

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

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

Dubai Festival City

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

04 3324444 Zabeel

Cubo Pasta is a popular spot for delegates at neighbouring World Trade Centre. Cubo Pasta – Italian

04 7011111

Anise is offering a fine spread of traditional Arabic fare this month with an iftar buffet available from sunset to 9.30pm, priced at AED185 per person, including Ramadan juices, tea, coffee and soft drinks.

04 4530000

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

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

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

Jebel Ali

Jumeira Rotana Hotel

Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steakhouse

04 8145555

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

Latitude's iftar offers a diverse mix of live cooking stations presenting an array of dishes from appetisers to desserts. Priced from AED195 per person each night from sunset to 8pm. 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

04 3455888 Satwa

Try some German flavours at Brauhaus with a selection of the country’s traditional dishes. Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

IN THE KNOW RAMADAN Opening hours at many hotels and restaurants across Dubai change for the duration of the holy month. It is advisable to call ahead. There is no eating, drinking or smoking in public places during the fasting hours (daylight) of the holy month of Ramadan and particular respect must be shown towards all religious rituals and occasions.

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

kempinski hotel & Residences, palm jumeirah

04 4442000

Dubai Marina

GOING JAPANESE

Recline on Majlis-seating in the festive tent during Ramadan where live cooking stations present a range of Middle Eastern delicacies at the iftar sunset buffet. Priced at AED175 per person.

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

There is an exciting collection of culinary concepts to try here including Latest Recipe which offers dishes from around the world. Spend AED250 for your chance to win a return ticket to London with Virgin Atlantic this summer.

Each night during Ramadan Brasserie hosts an iftar buffet of Arabic-inspired dishes. Priced at AED235 per person, from sunset to 9pm. 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 boasting stunning views over the Palm Jumeirah. THE DEK on 8 – Terrace bar The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Prego's presents a delicious selection of gourmet Italian fare. 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

A quaint, old-school hotel located in Deira.

Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai Marina

Jumeirah Beach Residence

04 3877777

04 3993333

04 3995555

Deira

Millennium plaza Hotel dubai

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 2270000

Al Shindagah – International Al Diwan – Lebanese Malate Bar & Restaurant – Filipino Sketch – Mediterranean

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

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

Metropolitan Palace hotel

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim

Armani/Hashi For the finest in Japanese cuisine look no further than Armani/ Hashi which offers a chic Friday brunch and fine dining in sleek surroundings. Menu highlights include fresh sushi, noodles and meltin-the-mouth seabass. Location: Armani Hotel Dubai Contact: 04 8883888 Nobu This worldrenowned restaurant takes its name from celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Savour specialities such as black cod and wagyu gyoza. Location: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Contact: 04 4262626 ET Sushi A feast for the senses is on offer here as guests watch the creatively prepared plates of sushi pass by on the conveyor belt or sit on the terrace and enjoy à la carte choices including soups, hot and cold noodle dishes, tepanyaki and several kinds of ice cream. Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers Contact: 04 3198088 Miyako Expect an authentic yet lively atmosphere at this vibrant restaurant. The extensive menu includes a range of traditional delicacies. Location: Hyatt Regency Dubai Contact: 04 3172221

The Wharf is a British-style restaurant which serves delcious fare which includes big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce.

04 4498888

Savour authentic Italian flavours at The Talk Restaurant & Lounge. From classicco pizza cooked in a beech wood oven to robust pasta offerings. The Talk Restaurant & Lounge – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar

Novotel World Trade Centre

04 3320000

Trade Centre Pay a visit to Entre Nous for fine fare from all corners of the globe.

Deira

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence 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.

Al Sufouh

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

Sicilia offers a wonderful selection of Italian dishes cooked in authentic style. Mistral – Arabic Al Bahou – Brunch buffet Sicilia – Italian Shanghai Chic – Chinese Moroc Bar – Moroccan lounge Chor Bazaar – Indian

Cafe Arabesque - Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

Oasis Beach Tower

Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

Chutneys restaurant features an iftar with a selection of traditional North Indian dishes. Some of the culinary delights include gosht korma, tawa murgh and fish tikka. Priced at AED110 per person inclusive of soft drinks, tea, coffee and Ramadan juices.

Oud Metha

During Ramadan Café Arabesque offers an extensive iftar buffet featuring more than 40 different kinds of cold and hot mezzeh, soups, and ouzy. A large selection of dates, fruit and desserts provide a sweet ending. Available daily from sundown to 9.30pm, priced at AED180 per person, including soft drinks.

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

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

Bur Dubai

Raffles Dubai

Garhoud

04 6021234

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

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

04 3366000

Park Hyatt DubaI

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3999999

Traditional Iftar buffets will be served daily from 7.15 to 8.30pm in Tagine restaurant and The Rotisserie offering a variety of Arabic dishes for AED180 per person. 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 Zest's traditional iftar buffet will be served daily from sunset priced from AED220 per person. 101 Dining Lounge and Bar – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

In the know

Dubai's rich cultural mix has given rise to a wide variety of cuisines. All cooking styles can be found and sampled here from Italian and Japanese to Korean and Lebanese. Local Arabic food tends to be full of flavour with an array of spices used in rice, fish and meat dishes. On special occasions, such as weddings, camel is served while camel's milk is viewed as a healthy drink, full of calcium.

04 2227171

For a dining experience with a difference, try Fish Market with views of Deira Creek and select your own fresh fish and seafood, all cooked to order with a delicious selection of sauces as an accompaniment. Sample quality Chinese cuisine prepared by master chefs at The China Club where you can choose to dine in either the elegant dining room or art-filled private room. Boulvar – International Fish Market – Seafood Ku-Bu – Cocktail Bar La Moda – Italian Marbles – Lobby bar Minato – Japanese Palm Grill – Steakhouse Shabestan – Iranian Sumibiya – Asian The China Club – Chinese The Pub – English Up On The 10th – Jazz Bar Yum – Noodle bar

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

04 4502000

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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

04 3669111

Dubai Media City Embark on a culinary journey of Italy at Certo where delicious pizza and pastas are a delight. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar

radisson royal hotel dubai

04 3080000

Sheikh Zayed Road Indo Thai offers authentic flavours of Asia in a stunning setting decorated in Oriental style. Or try Icho for tasty Japanese dishes in chic surroundings. Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indo Thai Asian Restaurant – Asian

04 3248888

Enjoy an array of traditional Arabian favourites at Azur restaurant's iftar buffet from sunset to 9pm. Priced at AED185 per person inclusive of soft drinks, Ramadan juices and water. 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 Enjoy sushi, snacks and tapas at Biber lounge and bar. A la Turca – International L'Olivo Restaurant – Italian Nargile - Shisha lounge Biber- Lounge Salt - Seafood

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

04 3230111

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

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road Enjoy an extensive iftar buffet in Dunes Café with traditional Middle Eastern specialities and beverages. From sunset until 8.30pm enjoy a wide variety of grilled dishes while listening to the sounds of a traditional oud player. Priced at AED180 per person including soft beverages and Arabic refreshments. 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

Vivaldi offers stunning views of Dubai Creek which present the perfect backdrop to a delicious Italian meal. Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

04 3995533

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

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T A ST E/THE GUIDE

City dining

SHERATON DUBAI MALL OF THE EMIRATES HOTEL

The h hotel dubai

Towers Rotana Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road

An abundance of dining options is on offer here including Mediterranean restaurant Sanabel.

Savour the finest quality produce and a delicious steak at one of the city's most popular spots. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse offers a gourmet dining experience in chic surroundings.

Enjoy a lavish international iftar buffet at Flavours on Two. Priced at AED145 including fresh juices, dates and Arabic sweets. Served daily during Ramadan from sundown to 8.30pm.

Okku – Japanese Ruth's Chris Steakhouse - Steakhouse Gold lounge – Lounge Mizaan - International

Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International

Alegra

Traders Hotel Dubai

Al Murooj Rotana

04 3772000

Sanctuary Pool Lounge - Lounge Sanabel - Mediterranean Vantage - lounge

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

04 4484848

Dubai Marina The Hub launches its 'Hub Grub' promotion. Indulge in a selection of succulent baby back ribs, chicken wings, jalapeno poppers and tempura shrimps accompanied by selected beverages. Priced at AED195 per person inclusive of selected beverages. AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

Taj Palace Hotel

04 2232222 Deira

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

The Address Downtown Dubai

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai Indulge in an array of freshly prepared, all-you-can-eat sushi at Fazaris on Wednesdays and Thursdays until August 31. Priced from AED185 per person. Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Visit Ember Grill and Lounge for the finest in international cuisine or enjoy an array of authentic flavours of Arabia at Na3Na3.

04 5018888

Enjoy an authentic Arabian feast and traditional Ramadan entertainment at Farriers this month. From AED175 per person.

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills Enjoy tapas at Monty's every evening. Choose from an offering including typical Spanish sausages to crispy calamari with lemon mayonnaise. Available Sunday to Thursday from 7 to 9pm. Priced from AED109 per person. Monty's – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International

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

050 2464555

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

04 3627934

Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy spectacular views over Dubai Marina.

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

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

at.mosphere

villa rotana

Burj Khalifa

The Palace Downtown Dubai

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.

04 3216111

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai Ewaan is this month serving an eclectic selection of traditional Arabian delicacies. Dine in the renowned iftar tent from sunset to 9pm. Priced from AED195 per person.

Moka Café – All-day dining

ARABIC TASTE Al Mahshi: Roasted lamb stuffed with rice, raisins, onions, eggs and a host of different spices and seasoning. This dish is roasted for seven to eight hours and is usually prepared for feasts and weddings.

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

04 3994000

Dubai Marina Lobby Lounge is a chic venue offering light meals and the finest teas and coffees in ambient surroundings. Or you might like to visit Splendido where authentic Italian dishes are served.

04 8883828

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

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

9 Hoi An, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai 10 Mazina, The Address Dubai Marina 11. Lobby Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

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

Center Cut is a delicious steak house serving the finest quality produce cooked to perfection. Alternatively, enjoy the flavours of Thailand at Blue Rain.

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

Meydan

The Address Dubai Marina

Enjoy Mazina's iftar buffet in the Constellation Ballroom from sunset to 9pm. Priced from AED155 per person.

Deira

04 3813333

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

Dubai Marina

04 2659888

The Meydan

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

04 4238888

04 3438000

Al Balaleet: This is a kind of fine pasta made from eggs, onion, cinnamon, sugar and oil. It is usually eaten for breakfast.

04 3722222

Al Harees: An ancient dish that consists of small pieces of meat, wheat and water. This dish is prepared by putting meat in the pot and adding wheat and then cooking until the meat is very tender. The mix is then beaten to become a porridge. Finally the pot is surrounded by charcoal and left to cook overnight. This dish is eaten at any time but particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

DIFC

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

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

04 3994141

Dubai Marina Blue Orange offers a traditional iftar buffet with live entertainment from a tabla and oud player. Priced from AED180 per person from sunset to 9pm.

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

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

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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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 |

royalfashion.biz

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 H Hotel Dubai 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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SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

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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Jebel Ali Danube Ibn Battuta Nakheel Harbour & Tower Jumeirah Lakes Towers Dubai Marina Nakheel Dubai Internet City Sharaf DG Mall of the Emirates First Gulf Bank Noor Islamic Bank Business Bay Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Financial Centre Emirates Towers World Trade Centre

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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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Icon for shopping area or mall.

{

My Dubai

Zayan Ghandour, co-founder of UAE fashion boutique s*uce, shares her Dubai highlights

}

1 s*uce 2 Art Dubai 2013

I am originally from Beirut, Lebanon but have been living in Dubai since 2000. I love it here and enjoy the city all year round. One of my favourite places is Satwa. I love how authentic it is, the people, the street culture, the little shops and independent vendors. Anything from old Dubai is always enchanting and it’s an inspiring place to find all sorts of little pieces, fashion trims and accessories. At weekends I love to go to Safa Park with my twin daughters. We usually stop at Al Wasl Square for ice cream where I also of course recommend a visit to s*uce Gifts for quirky one-off finds. In my spare time I go to the beach. The salty sea air reminds me of the Corniche in Beirut. When family and friends come to stay I take them to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. It is an absolute must with its beautiful old architecture and authentic cultural feel. Burj Khalifa is also a must see – it is the tallest building in the world after all and a fantastic place where you can see the old, the new and everything in between.

There are so many exciting events in Dubai. Art Dubai is an important date on the calendar bringing together art collectors from all over the world

There are so many exciting events throughout the year in Dubai. I showed my autumn/winter 2013 collection at Fashion Forward in April and it was simply spectacular. It was so well organised and a great showcase for regional talent. We are incredibly excited about next season as we believe Dubai truly has the potential to become the region’s definitive fashion destination. Art Dubai has also always been a fantastic event and is an important date on the calendar bringing together curators and art collectors from all over the world. I love how Art Dubai keeps evolving, going from strength to strength with the introduction of new initiatives such as Design Days and the Gulf Art Forum. When it comes to dining in Dubai, there are so many incredible options. I absolutely love French restaurant

La Petite Maison at Dubai International Financial Centre. It has the best crème brûlée in town. Teatro at Towers Rotana is another lovely restaurant, brilliant for getting together with friends and they have the best salmon with wasabi purée. The Beach Bar and Grill at One&Only Royal Mirage is a lovely outdoor venue and I adore the white bean dip with toasted bread served there. Circle Café is one of the cutest cafés on Jumeirah Beach Road. The quinoa tabouleh and labneh with bagel chips served there is excellent. I have many wonderful memories from my time in Dubai so far but one of the best is the day we opened s*uce in February 2004. There was no electricity in the Village Mall that day which was a real one-off but we still went ahead. The show must go on as they say.

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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 / 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

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6/9/13 4:34 PM