Concierge Dubai Magazine, October 2012 by npimedia fz llc

October 2012 | issue 98

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 October 2012 | issue 98

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

IN CINEMAS

JAMES BOND’S CHOICE.

OMEGA Boutiques: BurJuman • Deira City Centre • Dubai Mall • Mall of the Emirates Mirdif City Centre • Sahara Centre • Wafi and at select Rivoli Stores. Toll Free: 800-RIVOLI

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www.omegawatches.com

ATLANTIS +971 4 4226717

AL QASR +971 4 4243892

BURJ AL ARAB +971 4 3483131

DUBAI MALL +971 4 4341227

JUMEIRAH BEACH +971 4 3488102

MINA A’ SALAM +971 4 3686262

Zabeel saray +971 4 4357558

www.braschidubai.com

Find elegance and sophistication at Jumeirah Beach Hotel Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Tel: +971 4 422 8497 Tel: +971 4 454 8778

GlashĂźtte Original â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more than 165 years of German watchmaking art.

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The PanoGraph. Perfect proportions. The design of the successful column-wheel chronograph presents its startling asymmetry in a distinctly modern manner. Designed in accordance with the golden ratio, the epitome of German craftsmanship. Simply perfect. Discover the art of fine German watchmaking at www.glashuette-original.com. Download our iPhone Application in the App store.

OCTOBER 2012 / Issue 98 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

edi tor i a l Grou p Edi tor fay e row e Edi tor c at he r in e l a ngl e y depu t y edi tor ol i v i a cu t hbe rt fa shion Edi tor naomi ch a dde rton produc t ion Edi tor de br a fr e e m a n-t hor pe Con t r ibu tor s C av e l l M a l l et t

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WELCOME TO concierge

Se n ior A rt Dir ec tor An dr e a T e m pesta Sen ior Design er Ton y Sa n t i ago Photogr a pher A dh a m Sn e e h Produc t ion Coor dinator Nav e e d A ziz

a dv ert isi ng a dv ert ising dir ec tor dav id wa de A dv ert ising M a nager Pr a sh a n d Me non Hot el r el at ionship m a nager Mi a C ache ro Sa l es M a nager s PAOLO A NGHILE R I Sa nge eta 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 Miche l l e Hir ao c a rol mil a n

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

Dubai is a cosmopolitan and intriguing destination brimming with world recordbreaking developments, indulgent five-star restaurants, exciting attractions and an array of fascinating cultural gems. Bringing it all (quite literally) to your hotel room is Concierge, a definitive five-star visitor magazine, which delivers all you need to know about what’s going on in the city you are visiting. Luxury shoppers with a passion for fashion should look to our shop section, because this issue we’ve explored the latest trends in abaya fashion and what to expect in the season ahead (page 26). Alternatively, if you’re in the market for a precious purchase, direct your attention to Gems of the Sea on page 48 for the lowdown on the fascinating world of pearl jewellery. While Dubai is famed as a shopping destination, there are plenty of activities for adventurous visitors who wish to head outside and we recommend they turn their attentions to the experience section of the magazine, which begins on page 67. In addition to road-testing an exciting dune-bashing experience, the Concierge team tracked down the emirate’s top golf experts to secure inside information on everything from the trickiest holes to tasty clubhouse dishes. And, as October hails the beginning of the equestrian season, we’ve compiled an exciting guide to the best horse-related activities in The Mane Attraction on page 82. For quick information on where to shop and what to visit, simply turn to The Guide which begins on page 109. With listings on everything from gourmet restaurants to cultural activities, you have all the knowledge at your fingertips to create a bespoke stay. Further information can be found at conciergedubai.com or by consulting your hotel concierge. Enjoy your Dubai experience fully with Concierge.

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

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

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

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

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In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh Location: Park Hyatt Dubai Credits: Dress Chloé; cuff Tory Burch; earrings Kenneth Jay Lane at Bloomingdale’s; sunglasses Ralph Lauren

Bordered by rolling sand dunes, Dubai is a truly exotic desert destination. But while the emirate originally grew from the sandbanks of the Arabian Desert, it is a city of contrasting landscapes. From the urban enchantment of skyscrapers to the city’s verdant parklands, no two areas are alike. For our latest high-end fashion shoot (page 38) we headed to the palatial Park Hyatt Dubai, where we found a serene world of lush gardens and luxurious décor.

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Elegance is an attitude

The Longines Saint-Imier Collection

www.longines.com

Simon Baker

www.longines.com

contents OCTOBER 2012 / Issue 98

16/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

22/SNAPSHOT The hidden beauty of Dubai Creek

25/SHOP 26/FABRIC OF SOCIETY

Concierge looks at the flourishing new market of fashionable abayas dominating catwalks across the globe

32/CELESTIAL CHARM In honour of Eid al Adha, Concierge shines a light on moonphase watches

38/the natural choice Sunrise to sunset trends abound in our latest high-end fashion shoot

48/GEMS OF THE SEA

If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, pearls must be her sister and this season the organic gem is more popular than ever

55/DISCOVER 56/ART OF THE MATTER

Discover the enchanting world of Arabic art

62/A DAY AT THE RACES

If you’re searching for trackside fun, look no further than camel racing

64/CITY OF CULTURE

Step back in time and visit Sharjah

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contents OCTOBER 2012 / Issue 98

67/EXPERIENCE 68/DESERT PEAKS Concierge road tests an exhilarating dune drive across the vast Arabian Desert

74/SWING INTO ACTION

The cream of the greens share their tips on the city’s premiere golf courses

82/THE MANE ATTRACTION

It’s horses for courses in Dubai, where visitors can saddle up for a variety of equestrian activities

89/TASTE 90/FEAST YOUR EYES

Enjoy more than just the scenery at one of these restaurants with a view

98/PLATE EXPECTATIONS

Global gourmet food is the order of the day as Concierge takes a journey through Dubai’s culinary delights

106/LOCAL FLAVOUR

Rise to the occasion with traditional Arabic bread

Q 109/THE GUIDE

Comprehensive listings to plan the perfect stay

136/MY DUBAI

Local artist Hatty Pedder shares her thoughts on how to have a creative getaway in the city

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UAE

190 YEARS AGO

A MAN INSPIRED BY HORSE RACING CHANGED WATCHMAKING FOREVER .

In 1821, at a horse race in Paris, Nicolas Rieussec successfully tested his revolutionary invention that allowed time to be recorded to anaccuracy of a fifth of a second. The chronograph was born. A tribute to a visionary man, the Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Automatic is centred on the essence of his invention, the rotating disc technique. Monopusher chronograph, self-winding manufacture movement, second time zone, 30 min. and 60 sec. rotating disc counters.Crafted in the Montblanc Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland.

www.montblanc.com

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essentials

Brought to you in association with

OCTOBER

EXPERIENCE The Dubai Fountain

Whether it’s the 500-foot water bursts, the dazzling light show or the dramatic vocals from the likes of Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, it’s hard not to be stirred by The Dubai Fountain. Located in Dubai’s Downtown area at the foot of the stunning Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest dancing fountain works its magic every 30 minutes from 6 to 11pm daily. Contact: 800 DUBAI MALL (38224 6255) or visit thedubaimall.com for details.

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SHOP

EVENTS IN BRIEF

Old-style souks If you like to trawl for trinkets, pack a pair of comfortable shoes and get ready for a shop-a-thon at one of Dubai’s airconditioned indoor markets. Souk Madinat Jumeirah (pictured), Souk Al Bahar and Khan Murjan are three recently built bazaars constructed to resemble traditional Arabic marketplaces. The perfect places to pick up Arabic lanterns, dates and Persian carpets, this is where you go for last-minute souvenir shopping. Location: Umm Suqeim, Downtown Dubai and Oud Metha, respectively. Turn to page 110 for more information.

Gitex Shopper Until October 6 Gitex Shopper, the biggest consumer electronics sales bonanza in the Middle East, is your one-stop shop for gadgets, gizmos and all things technological. Make your way to the Dubai World Trade Centre on Shiekh Zayed Road. Entry is priced at AED30 per person while children below the age of five go free. Visit gitexshopperdubai.com

D u b a i M u s i c F e s t i va l October 5 It’s time to ‘throw some shapes’ because the annual dXb Music Festival is returning to Dubai this month. Taking place at Festival Park at Al Badia Festival City, acts include Grammy-winning DJ and producer Afrojack and Billboard chart topper Kaskade. For bookings visit dxbfestival.ae

TASTE

Dine Brazilian style Until quite recently upmarket Brazilian food has been in short supply across the emirate. Fortunately the drought is now over because Fogueira, an ultra-modern restaurant located at the Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach, is opening up this month. It will be serving up diverse dishes which blend traditional Brazilian classics with a variety of contemporary creations. Contact: 04 4398888.

‘J HA K AA S M U M BAI ’ A S TU D Y O F BEAUTI F UL CHAO S Until October 10 This exciting exhibition by local artist Hatty Pedder features a selection of pieces inspired by Mumbai (pictured above) and is on show at The Mojo Gallery. Turn to page 135 to read our exclusive interview with the artist. For details visit themojogallery.com

D u b a i I n t e r n at i o n a l D a n c e F e s t i va l October 17 to 20 This multi-arts event unites a variety of well-known dance companies, classical dance academies, youth orchestras and music ensembles from around the world. This year’s event is rumoured to be the biggest yet. For details visit dubaidancefestival.com

E i d A l Ad h a October 26 to 29 The Islamic festival of Eid Al Adha is expected to commence on October 26. This cultural celebration sees Muslims gathering early in the morning to perform the Eid prayer.

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Ask the concierge Jose ph David, chie f concierge at T he Pal ace – The Old Town shows us how to have a st ylish s tay in the emirate

Guests often ask me where they can go to see the most stunning views in Dubai and I always direct them to At.mosphere, which is located on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa. It’s the world’s highest restaurant. Dubai is also world-renowned for its eclectic social scene. Nasimi Beach at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai is a beachside restaurant and day bar where guests can mingle on the sand and enjoy drinks at sundown. Another great spot is Armani/Privé at Armani Hotel Dubai, which is a stylish place to hang out in the evening and the food and service are both first class. For something a little different, I suggest heading to Cirque du Soir at The Fairmont Dubai. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10.30pm to 3am this Cirque du Soleil-type circus show sees fire dancers, jugglers and stilt walkers performing in a club environment. Of course, some guests may prefer a more intimate setting and the View Deck at The Palace – The Old Town is available for exclusive hire. With views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Lake it’s a very romantic setting for a private dinner. While the emirate is abundant with glamorous attractions, there is also a historic side to enjoy. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), located in the Bastakiya quarter, hosts cultural breakfasts, lunches and historic tours. The 90-minute breakfast, which runs on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10am, is priced at AED60, while the lunch, held on Sundays and Tuesdays from 1pm, is priced at AED70. Both take place in a traditional wind tower and guests enjoy a homemade Emirati meal of Arabic coffee and local delicacies such as lugamat (sweet dough balls), hummous and fresh dates, while learning about local culture and heritage.

EXPERIENCE At the Top

Dubai’s skyline is famous and to take in unparalleled views of it, head to At the Top, the observation deck in Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower. Located on the 124th floor and easily accessible thanks to the super-swift elevators which climb at a rate of 10 metres per second, you can expect exhilarating sights of the city and stunning photo opportunities. Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 800 AT THE TOP (28843867) or visit burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck

DISCOVER Bastakiya

If you’re keen to experience a more traditional side of the city, the Bastakiya Quarter is a cultural melting pot and your chance to see the emirate as it was in days gone by. Rich with galleries, souks and views of the Dubai Creek, this bustling area is the city’s oldest district. Location: Bastakiya Quarter, Bur Dubai.

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TASTE

Ladies’ night It’s good news for the girls, because ladies’ nights are as much part of Dubai life as shopping and shawarmas. Most bars and restaurants throughout the city’s hotels offer discounts to ladies and if you plan your week carefully, you can kick up your heels seven nights a week. Turn to page 126 for a list of promotions throughout the month of October.

SHOP

Gold Souks If you’re looking for El Dorado you’ve come to the right place. Dubai, or ‘the city of gold’ as it is often referred to, is known for its gold souks in Deira (near Baniyas Square). Bursting with culture and old-world charm, traders from across the globe congregate in this marketplace to sell an array of treasures. For more information visit goldsouks.com

SHOP

Montblanc Star Classique Automatic Style-savvy cavaliers looking for their wristwatches to uphold the standards of discreet elegance, will be delighted to welcome the Montblanc Star Classique Automatic. The Star Classique timepiece is available in five variations of 18-carat red and yellow gold, as well as in a gold and steel variant with bezel and crown also made of 18-carat red gold.

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EXPERIENCE

LOOKING AHEAD

A day of spa pampering

Dubai Rugby Sevens

With an array of first-rate spas, such as the Mandara Spa at The Monarch Dubai, The Spa at The Palace – The Old Town and Rixos Royal Spa at Rixos The Palm Dubai (pictured), the city is the ideal place to indulge in some fivestar pampering. Whether you’re keen on massages, facials, scrubs or wraps, there’s a treatment to suit every type of traveller. You can call individual hotels for details or turn to page 126 for a list of hotels and resorts, most with in-house spa facilities.

November 29 to December 1 The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is three days of exhilarating rugby action. Powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand and Australia fly in to compete for the trophy. For more information visit dubairugby7s.com

JLo performs live in Dubai November 22 It’s the show we’ve all been waiting for. Singing sensation Jennifer Lopez will be bringing down the house as she performs at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre as part of her Dance Again world tour. Having sold over 55 million records worldwide since her debut in 1999, the global superstar is bound to deliver an epic show. For more information visit doneevents.com

SHOP

Retail therapy Dubai is abundant with shopping malls and retail revellers should direct their attentions to BurJuman which has a large selection of designer brands including Louis Vuitton (pictured), Cartier and Christian Lacroix. It is also home to Saks Fifth Avenue. Turn to page 110 for a list of malls. Contact: 04 3520222.

Gotye performs live in Dubai November 23 The man behind the year’s biggest-selling single, Somebody I Used To Know, is set to perform at The Dubai World Trade Centre. With more than nine million copies sold, this is guaranteed to be a sell-out event. For tickets email tickets@gotyedubai.com

UAE N at i o n a l D ay December 2 This day signifies the United Arab Emirates’ formal independence from the UK and the eventual unification of the seven emirates. Celebrations will take place across the UAE.

D u b a i F i l m F e s t i va l December 9 to 16 Have your autograph book at the ready because from December 9 to 16, Dubai will play host to the Dubai International Film Festival. Celebrities from around the world will be jetting into the city for a slice of the action, which takes place at Madinat Jumeirah. For details visit dubaifilmfest.com

TASTE

Afternoon tea Afternoon tea is fast becoming a Dubai institution with many of the city’s top restaurants putting on lavish spreads. Expect anything from cucumber sandwiches to caviar on toast, alongside a staggering range of teas and gourmet pastries. Our top recommendations include Nineteen at The Address Montgomerie (pictured) and Skyview Bar at Burj Al Arab. Turn to page 126 for a list of hotels, many of which serve afternoon tea.

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chaumet.com

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To the khor

The emirate’s most historic attraction, Dubai Creek is a hive of activity with water taxis and traditional wooden dhows sailing up and down its 14-kilometre stretch every day. Known as ‘Khor Dubai’ in Arabic, the waterway divides Deira and Bur Dubai, the city’s oldest quarters and is often referred to as the heart of the emirate with thousands of locals and visitors crossing each day. Throughout much of the 20th century, Dubai Creek served as a minor port for dhows sailing from India, Iran and East Africa. Pearl diving, which was the area’s main source of income for many years, was carried out in and around its waters until the Japanese introduced the cultured pearl in the early part of the 20 th century. In the 1960s and ’70s, the creek was dredged to allow for larger vessels, opening the waterway up to much more continuous traffic. Today, the creek is lined with landmark buildings, including Deira Twin Towers and the National Bank of Abu Dhabi. 22

S NA P S HOT

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LESILLA.COM

Beirut - Aishti Jal el Dib, Aishti Downtown - Amman, Aishti Taj Mall - Dubai, Harvey Nichols Mall of Emirates, Bloomingdales Dubai Mall - Riyadh, Harvey Nichols Al Faisaliah Mall, Saks Fifth Avenue Kingdom Center - Doha, 51 East Lagoona Mall - Kuwait, Harvey Nichols Avenues Mall, Al Ostoura Al Thuraya Mall

shop Dav id Morris

First established in 1962, this year marks the 50 th anniversary for London jewellery brand David Morris. Long renowned for creat ing one-of-a-k ind pieces from an awe-inspiring selection of coloured precious gems, these inimitable treasures are available at the David Morris boutique at The Dubai Mall. For details call 04 4343888.

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a ba y a s / s hop

Fabric of society In the last few decades we have witnessed the emergence of a flourishing new market for fashionable abayas and UAE designers have played an integral role in this

Q Clad head to toe in sweeping black robes, often accompanied by a matching scarf covering the hair and loosely framing the face, the Emirati woman cuts an elegant figure. Her floor-length gown, known locally as the abaya, is the traditional dress worn by Gulf women which, until recently, has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years. The abaya, which is worn as a symbol of the wearerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faith and modesty, was always a loose, black robe, made from one large square of silk or wool. All abayas were made in the same size, regardless of body shape and they all looked identical. Then, about twenty years ago, all that changed and distinctive styles embracing international trends began to emerge in abaya retailers. Suddenly, the abaya became a statement of style as well as religion. Different wrinkle-free fabrics from silk and satin to chiffon and dentelle began to be used and women started to opt for embellished abayas adorned with Swarovski stones, glass beads and embroidered patterns. In the last 10 years, this trend has accelerated and a new abaya fashion scene has not only emerged, but has established itself.

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“Recently, women have discovered they can wear stylish and fashionable abayas while still respecting the Islamic culture and so we have seen the introduction of fashionable abayas, which include colour, embellishments and varying fabrics,” explains Sheikha Rafia Helal Bin Drai, whose abaya designs grace catwalks around the world and are sold throughout the UAE in her boutique, Mauzan. Sheikha Rafia Helal Bin Drai is one of a growing number of talented designers who have focused on reinventing the plain, one-size-fits-all abaya and creating stylised pieces that ref lect the tastes of fashionforward Emirati women. “Islamic women have seen the latest trends around the world and comfortably integrated them into their traditional wear,” says Karan Chauhan from abaya design house, Kashkha Plaza. Part of the reason for this recent surge in trendy abayas is the changed outlook of society, says Chauhan. “This has empowered women to experiment with traditional wear and now we have a large number of abaya designers from the Gulf showcasing collections in Paris, New York, Miami and at other international fashion shows.” Initially, some international communities were skeptical about the fashion potential of abayas, Chauhan continues. Now, however, they have been embraced on runways around the world and are even finding their way into the mainstream market. “Just like the

2 - 4 Mauzan A/W ‘12 Eid/Ramadan Collections’ unveiling in Paris, France (and previous page)

Indian sari, which wasn’t trendy a few years back and is now being worn by many international celebrities, the abaya is beginning to be appreciated as a symbol of style as well as culture,” he adds. Ali Khalil from Hanayen attributes the change to the younger generation of Emirati women, who are driving the demand for trendy traditional dress. “Abaya styles began to evolve about two decades ago and designs have since matured dramatically.

We credit this revolution to the young, modern generation of Islamic women who are educated, sophisticated and yet value their traditions and respect their chastity,” says Khalil, adding that customers buying the fashionable abayas are from the 18 to 40-year-old age group and generally professional, career women or wealthy socialites. It’s a testimony to the value of tradition and heritage in the UAE that rather than abandoning the abaya for ready-made fashions, Emirati women have spurred the creation of an entirely new market for designer abayas. It is for this reason that the UAE is leading the way in abaya design. “The UAE is dominating the abaya fashion scene for the simple fact that is has a lot of cultures to look to for inspiration. We love to experiment with new designs and there is plenty of opportunity for that in the UAE where customers from different parts of the world ask us to make customised abayas for them,” says Chauhan.

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Many of these custom-made abayas will incorporate the latest haute-couture trends from the western catwalks. With all the delicate beadwork, hand-stitched designs and Swarovski embellishments the high-end abayas can easily cost in excess of AED6,000 (approximately US$1,000. Couture abayas, which tend to be a designer’s most extravagant creations, covered with expensive adornments and stitched painstakingly by hand, often cost a lot more. On a day-to-day basis, however, most of the younger Emirati women opt for lighter and more practical designs, says Chauhan. “Older Arabic women still prefer the heavier styles, but the younger generations are looking for more aesthetic designs with less bling and more prints. They are also shifting away from the traditional black and mixing up the palette.” Increasingly, catwalk abaya collections are featuring coloured and patterned designs that are broadening the market and attracting buyers from other cultures.

With all the delicate beadwork, hand-stitched designs and Swarovski embellishments the high-end abayas can easily cost in excess of AED6,000

5 Mauzan A/W ‘12 Eid/Ramadan Collections’ show in Paris, France 6 Hanayen 7 Sheikha Rafia Helal Bin Drai

Last year, American model and socialite Olivia Palermo was pictured on the front cover of Haute Muse magazine wearing an abaya and subsequently donned another when she attended an event in Qatar. Abayas have also made their way into several luxury international department stores, including Harrods and Saks Fifth Avenue. As more and more local designers turn their attentions to local dress and these stylised garments make a growing number of appearances outside their traditional, cultural sphere, it seems clear that the future of the fashionable abaya is secure.

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Al Qasr

+971 4 4243892

Atlantis

+971 4 4226717

Burj Al Arab +971 4 3483181

Jumeirah Beach +971 4 3488102

Mina Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SALAM +971 4 3686262

Zabeel Saray +971 4 4357558

CELESTIAL CHARM This month Eid al Adha approaches and Muslims look to the lunar cycle to predict the exact date of this holy event. With this in mind Concierge shines a light on moonphase watches

Q Eid al Adha is known as the Festival of Sacrifice and this year it is expected to commence on October 26. A deeply spiritual time, this Islamic festival is marked by the sighting of the new moon and the aim is to highlight the true values of Eid, including giving and sharing with others. Because the religious event is dependent on the lunar cycle, over the next few pages Concierge has chosen a selection of the most sophisticated moonphase watches currently available. Every timepiece has its own exquisite charm, but what each shares is the ability to track the stages of the moon through a monthly cycle.

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W a t che s / s hop

Blancpain Villeret Perpetual Calendar

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sho p/ Wa tches

A. Lange & Söhne has produced the Saxonia Annual Calendar which has an inbuilt moonphase function. Powered by the famous self-winding Sax-O-Mat caliber, this is a timepiece which can be relied upon

A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Annual Calendar This limited production German watch manufacturer commands a large amount of respect in the world of watchmaking and is famous for creating ingenious timepieces. After all, who could forget the Saxonia Thin which, at a mere 5.9 millimetres, was the slimmest watch ever produced? This time round, A. Lange & Söhne has produced the Saxonia Annual Calendar which has an inbuilt moonphase function. Powered by the famous self-winding Sax-O-Mat caliber, this is certainly a timepiece which can be relied upon. Available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons stores across the UAE

Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Open Grande Date Moon & Sunphase Zenith is a watch brand famed for its intricate inner workings and the new El Primero Chronomaster Open Grande Date Moon & Sunphase gives watch enthusiasts the chance to peek at the timepiece’s horological complexities through the dial. The new model features a 42-millimetre-diameter case with round vintagestyle push buttons and a moonphase function. It has the added bonus of being water-resistant up to 100 meters. Available at Rivoli stores across the UAE

1 Blancpain Villeret Perpetual Calendar (previous page) 2 A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Annual Calendar 3 Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Open 4 Hermès Arceau Grande Lune

Hermès Arceau Grande Lune Hermès wowed the world of horology when it produced the Arceau Le Temps Suspendu which won the ‘Best Man’s Watch Prize’ at the Geneva Watch Making Grand Prix in 2011. Never one to sit on its laurels, this master watchmaker has come up with the Arceau Grand Lune which features one of the highest complications in the realm of watches. Belonging to the Arceau family, originally created in 1973 by Henri d’Origny, this moonphase timepiece is classically constructed with all the usual flare of the famous French brand. Available atAhmed Seddiqi & Sons stores across the UAE

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IWC Portuguese Grande Complication The timepiece of choice for those with an exquisite eye for craftsmanship, the Portuguese Grande Complication features a host of functions, including a perpetual calendar mechanically programmed until 2499, a perpetual moonphase display and a chronograph. Available at Rivoli stores across the UAE

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Moon Ultra Thin With its sapphire crystal case back and intricately designed moonphase function, the Master Moon Ultra Thin embodies a unique relationship with time. The mechanical movements of this timehonoured watch brand are well respected, but watch afficionados will adore this timepiece which measures a mere 4.9 millimetres in thickness and is proof that style and function can coexist. Available at Rivoli stores across the UAE

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IWC Portuguese Grande Complication Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Moon Blancpain Villeret Perpetual Calendar Carl F Bucherer Manero ChronoPerpetual

Blancpain Villeret Perpetual Calendar

Carl F Bucherer Manero ChronoPerpetual

In the wonderful world of horology Blancpain has always dazzled and the Villeret collection never disapoints. The range is inspired by tradition and everything about these timepieces oozes classic luxury. However, while we always expect big things from Blancpain, the engineers pulled out all the stops when they created the latest member of the Villeret family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Villeret Perpetual Calendar. A self-winding timepiece, this elegant watch is exquisitely crafted with an alligator strap and a red-gold case. Available at Rivoli stores across the UAE

Under the guiding hand of company CEO Sascha Moeri, this exclusive Swiss watch brand has gone from strength to strength in the decade it has been available internationally. The Manero ChronoPerpetual combines a perpetual calendar with a flyback chronograph and this traditional timepiece displays everything from the day of the week, date and month to leap years and moon phases. With a stylish 18-carat rose gold case and a Louisana alligator leather strap, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an accomplishment in style as well as horology. Available at Rivoli stores across the UAE

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EL PRIMERO CHRONOMASTER POWER RESERVE

www.zenith-watches.com

Life is in the movement

the natural choice Rich fabrics are offset by heavy jewels and stylish accessories to create glamorous looks for him and her

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

Fa sh ion / s hop

Gemma wears: Dress Catherine Malandrino; earrings Oscar de la Renta Benjamin wears: Jacket, shirt, trousers and scarf all Louis Vuitton

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Opposite page: Dress Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti; earrings Oscar de la Renta; jacket Dries van Noten at Bloomingdale’s; bag Aennis Eunis at Saks Fifth Avenue; belt Post and Company at s*uce Dress Mary Katrantzou at Bloomingdale’s

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Benjamin wears: Shirt Duchamp and watch Nixon both at Bloomingdale’s; jumper, tie and trousers Ermenegildo Zegna Gemma wears: Dress Chloé; cuff Tory Burch; earrings Kenneth Jay Lane at Bloomingdale’s; sunglasses Ralph Lauren

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Gemma wears: Shirt Oscar de la Renta; earrings and bracelet both Kenneth Jay Lane at Saks Fifth Avenue Benjamin wears: Jacket, shirt and trousers Brunello Cucinelli at Saks Fifth Avenue; tie Charvet; watch Nixon at Bloomingdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; sunglasses Alexander McQueen

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Dress Temperley London; clutch Kotur at Bloomingdale’s Opposite page: Dress Ezra; shoes model's own

Fashion editor: Naomi Chadderton —Stylist: Chrystel Plischke-Livolsi—Assistant stylist: Ambre Battistella Hair and makeup: Toni Antonia Malt at Bareface— Models: Gemma and Benjamin at Bareface—Location: Park Hyatt Dubai

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GEMS OF THE SEA If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, pearls must be her sister and this season the organic gem is more popular than ever

Q It was a historic day in December 2011 when Elizabeth Taylor’s jewellery collection fetched a record-breaking US$115 million at auction in New York. The Christie’s sale was hotly anticipated, but no one could have predicted the outcome, which saw many prized pieces sold for well above estimates. One particular item that caused a sharp intake of breath for buyers was a pearl necklace, which took the gavel right up to US$11.8million. The necklace, which was crafted to display a historic natural pearl known as La Peregrina, was originally brought for Taylor back in 1969 by her then-husband Richard Burton. The precious trinket, which dates from the 16th century, remained with her throughout her life and is now considered one of the most important pearls in the world. While La Peregrina holds special historical significance, the fact that it smashed estimates at last year’s auction is also indicative of a re-emerging trend that is seeing pearl jewellery once again become popular on the luxury retail market. “Pearls are very en vogue right now,” says Gregor Schwarz, sales director at Schoeffel, a luxury retailer of cultivated pearls. “They were always a treasure, but recently a variety of high-end fashion and jewellery brands have highlighted their elegance, helping to re-establish this precious gem as a popular jewel.”

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Just one of those high-end fashion labels is Chanel, which put pearls centre stage at Paris Fashion Week. Returning to its roots, it was the classic images of Coco Chanel toying with her gleaming baubles that inspired the collection and dazzling pieces such as pearl-encrusted shoes, belts and jackets stole the show. Likewise, powerhouse jewellery brands such as Tiffany & Co., Bulgari and Maximilian London have also embraced the trend by incorporating the lustrous orbs into their lines. “Pearls have epitomised sophistication and femininity for hundreds of years,” says Ghada El-Kari, merchandising director at Tiffany & Co. “Tiffany & Co. has always been renowned as a purveyor of the finest pearls and today the company incorporate several kinds of pearls in its jewellery designs, including Akoyo pearls from Japan and pearls from t he Sout h Sea.”

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1 Paspaley (previous page) 2 Pearl and diamond rings, Tiffany & Co. 3 Lace collection, Mikimoto 4 Les Printemps necklace, Schoeffel 5 Dandy earrings, Schoeffel 6 Cool Candy earrings, Schoeffel 7 L’Amazone, Schoeffel 8 Narciss ring, Schoeffel

Pearls of wisdom

With this in mind it’s not surprising that women the world over are sporting attractive pearl earrings, necklaces and rings of all shapes, sizes and colours. As home to a variety of stores brimming with bright gleaming pearls, Dubai is a top shopping destination for visitors in the market for sea gems. However, while each piece may be more tempting than the next, investing in pearls is a bit like sourcing diamonds with varying qualities dramatically affecting prices. For this reason it’s good to know the rules before making a purchase. For a start, the two principal pearl categories are natural and cultured. While both develop in oysters, the main difference is that natural pearls form organically while cultured pearls are produced courtesy of an irritant, which is placed inside the oyster and stimulates nacre production. The Japanese-invented process, which transformed the pearling industry back in 1914, has all but taken over and while some wealthy buyers still remain loyal to

natural pearls, their rarity means that most pearls sold today are cultured. However, even with human intervention, finding a flawless pearl is virtually impossible and it can take years to accumulate gems of matching colour and size to create the perfect string, which is reflected in the price. “The entry level for Schoeffel is around €150 (US$189), but our most expensive pieces are priced at around €80,000 (US$100,000).” With a price tag like that, it’s only natural that buyers want to be sure they’re getting a quality product. Fortunately many reputable sellers use the AAA grading system. “This applies to loose pearls and for a gem to be classed at AAA the surface of the gem will have very high lustre and at least 95 percent of the surface will be free of any type of defect. However, when you’re dealing with something that is made by nature, imperfections are inevitable. Luckily, if you have a loose pearl that has a blemish somewhere the designer can drill in that spot, making a near-flawless pearl, flawless.”

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In addition to lustre and shape, it’s also important to examine the nacre of the pearl, which is the thickness of the exterior. “If a pearl has been harvested too early, its nacre will be thin and may crack and flake.” A simple way to identify this is to look at drill holes with a magnifying glass. “Depending on where the pearl is from the nacre should be anywhere from two to six millimetres thick,” says Schwarz. Just like precious stones, pearls also come in a variety of colours. According to Schwarz, South Sea pearls which are harvested in Australia usually develop in silver, white, blue and grey, whereas Tahitian pearls tend to be dark in shade, brownish or black. “The most valuable are South Sea pearls, but at Schoeffel we advise our clients to look past value and instead choose pearls that best go with the colour of their eyes, skin and hair.” Despite the variety of hues available, Schwarz believes that the traditional white pearl still tends to be the most popular. “This is because the overwhelming majority of demand is for white pearls,” he says. “White is the colour most people typically associate with pearls from discovery of the natural pearls through to the culturing of Akoya, South Sea and freshwater pearls.”

Size matters

While lustre, colour and shape are paramount, size is also a vital factor and many brands have worked tirelessly to distinguish themselves by the magnitude of their pearls. Paspaley, a leading pearling company specialising in South Sea pearls cultivated off the coast of Australia, made headlines last year after bringing the world’s largest pearl to Dubai. The precious South Sea gem was transported all the way from Australia for an exhibition at Paspaley Pearl at Atlantis, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Measuring a whopping 22 millimetres in diameter, this priceless jewel of the sea is perfectly shaped and has a strong pink hue. However, it is unlikely

9 Dandelion Collection ring, Mikimoto 10 Pearl and diamond necklace, Damiani 11 South Sea pearl set, Pinctada 12 Pearl ring, Paspaley 13 Tahitian pearl set, Khalil Al Sayegh

Just like precious stones, pearls also come in a variety of colours. South Sea pearls which are harvested in Australia usually develop in silver, white, blue and grey, whereas Tahitian pearls tend to be darker

that this particular pearl will ever be made into a piece of jewellery. Simply put, it is too valuable. Paspaley grows some of the world’s largest pearls, which are meticulously scrutinised and graded, with careful consideration given to the ‘five virtues’ of size, colour, shape, lustre and complexion. These are then transformed into luxurious pieces. Of course, whether you choose pearls based on the five virtues or find yourself swayed by brand and price, it is important to get the most enjoyment out of your purchase. “Pearls are valuable, but it’s a shame to buy them and then not wear them,” stresses Schwarz. “At Schoeffel we encourage our customers to wear their pieces regularly. After all, pearls are a gift from nature, they come a long way from the oyster to the finished product and the last place they should end up is hidden away in a vault somewhere.”

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Discover Ta k e f l i g h t

Falconry is an integral part of desert life and for centuries prey caught by the birds helped to feed Bedouin families. Visit Shaheen Xtreme Falconry to learn about the two main species of falcon kept in the UAE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the saker and the peregrine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and witness these magnificent creatures in flight. For more information visit shaheenxtreme.com

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The art of collecting With its flourishing art scene, a trip to the UAE provides the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Arabic art

Q W O R D S B Y C av e l l M a l l e t t

Due to the growing number of art fairs and galleries, record-breaking auctions and a new generation of up-and-coming talent, the art scene in the UAE is attracting attention from aficionados around the world. Visitors with an interest in collecting art will find plenty of ways to acquire a contemporary piece with a local flavour. Indeed, the diversity of art on offer in the UAE is uniquely captivating. From authentic calligraphy, Persian rugs and Oriental carpets to prize pieces from international artists inspired by all the Middle East has to offer, Arabic art celebrates an illustrious history that showcases the different wonders found within the community. Whether you are just starting out or are an avid collector already, you are sure to find something that appeals...

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A RA BI C A RT / Disc ove r

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Different strokes From the inscriptions on the gates of the Taj Mahal in India to the writing on the panels of the Bursa Grand Mosque in Turkey, the centuries-old art of calligraphy also holds a special place in the history of Arabic art. Greatly revered in the Islamic world, calligraphy was the primary means for the preservation of the Qu’ran through the ages. Merging artistry and great learning, calligraphy is still seen as a symbol of Middle Eastern artistry. Whether purchasing ancient and traditional styles or embracing a more modern approach, this sacred script appeals to tourists in a way that surpasses language boundaries. Written from right to left, the fluidity and delicacy of Arabic script is a skill often passed down through generations. Today, artists still very much rely on traditional tools with angled reed pens, known as qalam, favoured because they allow great flexibility. While characters are typically written in black ink on starchdyed paper, there are many ways to have your chosen piece customised, including marbled parchment and script in gold or silver ink. Calligraphy can also be found on items of cothing such as shawls and calligraphy art is widely available from souks to galleries across the emirate.

Calligraphy on copper: a wall hanging at the Miraj Islamic Centre (previous page) 2 & 4 Persian poetry inscribed on the centre’s bronze Lota pots 3 Carved through silver on to copper: the centre also sells stunning works of embellished art

Written from right to left, the fluidity and delicacy of Arabic script is a skill often passed down through generations

Worth a thousand words

From the vastness of the surrounding desserts to an ever-changing skyline, the Middle East provides an incredible canvas. Historic Arabic art that drew inspiration from faith steered away from human figures as a reference to piety. Today, thanks to the emergence of exciting new mediums, such as digital manipulation, the modern market is awash with striking pieces that provide a fresh take on historical views. Merging the two worlds of contemporary culture and tradition has influences all art forms. Fatema Al Mazrouie, one of the first Emirati artists to be headhunted by the world-famous London auction house Sotherby’s, explores her passion by taking a closer look at Muslim women around the world. Stating the importance of an artist’s

message as “the most comprehensive way to communicate with people”, she believes that there is no more formal channel of communication to convey society’s issues, ideas and concepts. Emirati artists are making more of an impact on the international scene and the scope of contemporary art available is proving a big attraction for visitors. One of the UAE’s most influential artists and gallery owners Jalal Luqman offers some advice for buyers. “It’s important that you find out the track record of artists if you’re not familiar with their work. Ensure they have some kind of standing in the field and that the artist has a developing future. That way, even though you’re buying a piece that you visually like, it will also mean that you’re buying something that over time will increase in value,” he said.

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Woven through time

PLACES OF INTEREST

Enjoying a golden age for centuries and still sought-after the world over, Persian rugs and Oriental carpets are renowned for their rich heritage and intricate designs. From the homes of royalty to the walls of great museums, these decadent styles of rugs and carpets have formed a significant part in the history of collectable art. Wandering through the halls of the Miraj Islamic Centre offers a greater appreciation of the detailed workmanship that goes into creating the rugs, especially when it becomes clear that it takes a single weaver months or even years to produce. Imtiyaz Ahmad Beigh, regional marketing manager of the centre, describes the intricacy involved. “Without actually knowing what the final image will look like, each weaver follows a pre-written code of colours and stitches, which over time evolves into the final design,” Beigh says. As the price tags can vary considerably, it’s best to find out exactly what determines a good investment. Beigh explains that key factors often include “the size and origin of

Christie’s Dubai christies.com

Since it opened its doors at Jumeirah Emirates Towers in 2008, Christie’s Dubai has helped to bring contemporary Middle Eastern art into the international spotlight. Earlier this year, sales of modern and contemporary pieces by acclaimed artists Ahmed Alsoudani and Ayman Baalbaki created global interest in the Islamic art scene. Miraj Islamic Art Centre mirajislamicartcentre.com

Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, this centre acts as a museum-like exhibition for unique Islamic art available for purchase. Browse through a collection of exquisitely bejewelled carpets, calligraphyengraved antiques, marble furnishings and silk textiles.

5 Two years in the making, this carpet, hand-woven in silk and wool, depicts the Door of Kabba 6 Kani Jamawar (woollen shawl) used by ancient royal families

the rug or carpet, materials used – because this can vary between silk and wool – and most importantly the number of knots it has per square inch, with a higher knot count representing better quality”. Replicas can actually be easily avoided, as all carpets of this calibre should come with a certificate of authenticity. If you enjoy ambling around the alleyways of traditional markets, the textile souk in Deira provides an authentic experience and an opportunity to discover the perfect carpet. With a variety of rugs piled high, accompanied by a selection of traditionally styled ceramic goods and pottery, it’s a meeting place catering to any lifestyle and interior design.

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a day at the races Searching for trackside fun that gets the heart racing? Look no further as the camel racing season begins this month

Q Ask a Dubai visitor what they expect to see during a stay in the emirate and a camel is bound to crop up somewhere on the list. Synonymous with life on the Arabian Peninsula, images of the singlehumped dromedary are a daily occurrence in the UAE, whether it be on postage stamps or emblazoned on ‘camels crossing’ road signs. The reason for this, other than the fact that camels are indigenous to the region, is that for thousands of years these intriguing desert dwellers have played an indispensable part in Arabian culture, both socially and economically. Originally camels earned their keep by way of transportation, trade and food, but while the days of camel trains transporting silks and spices across the dunes are long since over, the ‘ships of the desert’ still play a vital role in day-to-day life as camel racing has become a celebrated spectator sport in the UAE.

The sport of sheikhs Symbolising the spirit of Arabia, this ancient sport of sheikhs has enjoyed a renaissance in recent decades as Dubai’s ruling Maktoum family has increased its support for local traditions and customs. A variety of new and improved camel farms and purpose-built venues have been erected in Lisaili, which is approximately 35 kilometres from Dubai on the Al Ain Road and the facility includes three race tracks between three and eight kilometres in distance. It is here, at these noisy trackside events that hundreds of spectators, owners and trainers jostle in a bid to catch a glimpse of the cudchewing mammals as they thunder by. Each adrenaline-fuelled race comprises brightly

coloured robot jockeys that replaced the child jockey a few years ago, being carried along at break-neck speeds of approximately 60 kilometres per hour. Like most sports, camel racing has been subject to price rises. Twelve years ago a camel may have cost a few hundred dirhams. Five years ago, it would have been AED1.5 million. Now it can be anywhere from AED7 million upwards. The prizes are also subject to inflation and while in the ’80s, there may have been 30 or 40 races per season with a Range Rover as a typical prize for the winner, these days the top award is more likely to be a cheque for AED400,000 in addition to a brand new car.

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The official race season runs from October to the end of April and takes place on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and national holidays and, with an average of two races a day, enthusiasts can enjoy the events free of charge

A l s o t ryâ&#x20AC;Ś Aside from camel racing, visitors can get up close and personal with camels on a trip to one of the vibrant, year-round camel markets. At the bustling Al Ain market, in the neighbouring emirate of Abu Dhabi, camel owners meet to barter, buy and sell. Traders can still be seen hand-weaving camel halters and lead ropes or offering to sell their large, colourful and inexpensive cotton camel blankets.

Backing a winner Spotting a potential winning camel requires a great deal of patience. There are two important traits to look out for: large, powerful hind legs and a broad chest, which indicates a big lung capacity. A camelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reflexes are also important as well as its attention to its surroundings. If the camel ticks all of these boxes, training will begin from the age of 18 months. The animals are normally trained in groups of 20 or 30 and trainers use similar techniques to thoroughbred racehorses, such as swimming pools, treadmills and massages to ensure the camels are in peak condition. The official race season runs from October to the end of April and takes place on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and national holidays and, with an average of two races a day, enthusiasts can enjoy the events free of charge as admission is often complimentary. Visitors interested in attending camel racing events can speak to their hotel concierges for details or contact Dubai Camel Racing Club directly on 050 7740005 or by visiting dcrc.ae

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DIS C O VER / TO URIS T TRA IL

City of culture

Step back in time and visit Sharjah, an emirate rich in culture and history

Q While visitors to Dubai will no doubt be wowed by the emirate’s many attractions, adventurous travellers may decide to venture out of the vicinity to explore the surrounding cities. If this is on your agenda, we highly recommend a trip to Sharjah, a 20-minute drive from the centre of Dubai – traffic permitting. A word of warning though – avoid the Dubai-Sharjah highway during rush hour or you could find yourself on the road for an hour or more. Often described as the ‘city of culture’, Sharjah is one of the more traditional of the emirates and visitors are advised to adhere to the Decency and Public Conduct Rules implemented in 2001. Available in seven languages, the regulations can be read online at shjpolice.gov.ae and typically include rules such as not wearing shorts in public and keeping shoulders covered at all times. 1 Quran Memorial, Sharjah 2 The Blue Souk, Sharjah

In 1998, UNESCO named Sharjah (which means ‘rising sun’) the cultural capital of the Arab world in recognition of its commitment to art, culture and heritage preservation

Taking this into consideration, you are free to explore the city and all it has to offer. Dedicated shoppers must pencil in a visit to the famous Blue Souk, which houses around 600 shops in two wings. Its distinctive architectural style with Islamic influence is a major city landmark. Traditional purchases from the souk include brass coffee pots, Oriental carpets and hand-carved furniture. Another retail attraction is the wonderful Souk Al Arsah in the heart of the restored museum district. One of the emirate’s oldest souks, it was renovated in a traditional style incorporating shells, coral, wood and palm leaves. The city’s cultural arts and entertainment hub is Al Qasba. Its waterfront setting is reminiscent of Venetian

waterways and there is an excellent choice of local stores. Another aquatic attraction is the Sharjah Musical Fountain at Al Majaz Waterfront. One of the largest of its kind in the region, the fountain is 220 metres wide and shoots water up to 100 metres into the air. Located between Jamal Abdul Nasser Street and Khalid Lagoon Corniche, this exciting attraction has two giant water screens and is equipped with the latest sound and light technology. In 1998, UNESCO named Sharjah the cultural capital of the Arab world in recognition of its commitment to art, culture and heritage preservation. There are a number of museums, including archaeology, coins, science, Islam and heritage.

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EXPERIENCE Exploring Islam

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to learn about Islam during your stay in Dubai, book in for a tour of Jumeirah Mosque. Known for its breathtaking architecture, this holy sanctuary is one of only a few mosques in the city where non-Muslims can explore and the organisers run hour-long tours on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am. For more information call 04 3536666.

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Desert peaks Concierge takes time out to experience an exhilarating dune drive across the vast Arabian Desert

Q Wo r d s b y C AV E L L M A L L E T T

It’s easy to get caught up in the fast pace of life and forget the great wonders that lie just beyond the city limits, so needless to say, I was looking forward to driving out into the desert for an adventure. On a sunny afternoon, I’m picked up in a fourwheel drive by my Arabian Adventures guide, Yamen and we head to the desert conservation reserve. Yamen is from Syria, but has lived in the UAE for more than 14 years. As he drives, he tells tales of the region’s expansion and local history, clearly exuding his love for the country and its people. We arrive at the group meeting point, where Yamen jumps out of our Chevrolet Tahoe, warmly greeting his fellow drivers. While I chat with the other guests, the drivers deflate the tyres to give the car better traction and allow for a ‘smoother’ ride. Today, we’ll be travelling in a 16-car convoy, with the most experienced drivers at the front, middle and back, keeping the group together.

D ES E RT S A FA RI / E XPE R IE NCE

EXPE R IENCE/DES ERT SA F A RI

We park below the dunes for the final stop before camp, the sunset stop. Everyone piles out of the cars and climbs the gentle ascent to take in the view. It is genuinely breathtaking Roller coaster ride It’s time to buckle up and we’re off. I’m lucky enough to be sitting at the front, getting up close and personal with the incredible view I had been admiring on the drive out. As we twist and turn along vertical walls of sand, the change in the dunes is clear as the view splits between sand and sky. Yamen expertly challenges a daunting dune. One minute we’re roaring upwards and then just as suddenly we’re hanging precariously over the edge. As I stare straight down the seemingly vertical drop I cast a glance upwards, thankful for whoever invented the seatbelt that holds me securely in place. For a moment we teeter on the tip before soaring down the other side. Safely at the bottom, Yamen checks if I’m okay and with the breathless excitement of a child at a fairground, I say “again, again”. It’s reassuring to know that these four-wheel-drive vehicles are fitted with roll bars, airbags and experienced drivers so you’re in safe hands. During the calmer moments of the journey, I marvel at the picturesque landscape. Tufts of greenery are dotted across the sand, accompanied by graceful gazelles. On seeing

A range of desert safaris is offered by Arabian Adventures, including the Sundowner, which costs AED335 for adults and AED300 for children under the age of 13. For more details or to book a safari, contact 04 3034888 or visit arabian-adventures.com

my excitement for wild animals, Yamen nods to one and asks if I’ve eaten lunch yet. Of course, he’s only joking and to my relief he explains that hunting is strictly forbidden in the reserve. We park below the dunes for the final stop before camp, the sunset stop. Everyone piles out of the cars and climbs the gentle ascent to take in the view. It is genuinely breathtaking. The sun’s rays pierce through the scattered clouds smudging the edges of the dunes and creating a kaleidoscope of rich reds and deep purples. Looking around, I notice we’ve subconsciously created a line along the crest of a dune as if paying homage to the sun gods for this awe-inspiring sight.

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3501

DEPUIS 1971 à SAINT-TROPEZ

DUBAI - MALL OF THE EMIRATES, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH, VILEBREQUIN STORE HAMAC STORES - HARVEY NICHOLS - DUBAI ABU DHABI - ABU DHABI MALL, VILEBREQUIN STORE - MONTE-CARLO BEACH CLUB

WWW.VILEBREQUIN.COM

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Camp culture

PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy of Arabian Adventures

Against the fading light we head towards the Bedouin-style camp. At the entrance, a falcon perches elegantly on the arm of its handler. I agree to be the first to hold this brilliant bird. Instructed by the photographer, I shake my arm which triggers the bird to grandly open its wings. While great for a photo, this also triggers my ever-so-slight fear of feathered creatures. I happily hand the falcon back to its owner and wander over to the waiting camels. Young and old squeal with delight as the camels unfold and rise to their feet. I enter the camp through a wooden walkway of colourful lights. The tables are low, forming a U-shape around the belly dancing stage. The camp’s host welcomes everyone and invites them for a dinner of grilled meat, curries and fresh salads. Unlimited soft drinks are available as well as authentic Arabic coffee served with dates for added sweetness.

Visitors can also embrace the local culture by dressing in traditional clothing – kandoura for men and abaya for women – or sampling aromatic fruit-flavoured shisha

Yamen points out the activities on offer. There’s henna tattooing, where a temporary dye is intricately painted onto the body. Sand artists skillfully pour bright sand into a bottle, sculpting a personalised desert background. Visitors can also embrace t he local culture by dressing in traditional clothing – kandoura for men and abaya for women – or sampling aromatic fruit-flavoured shisha. Then suddenly the Arabic music increases in tempo, the floodlights switch on and it’s time to be dazzled by the belly dancer. As the crowd claps, the dancer whirls across the floor with dizzying speed and mesmerising moves. It’s a hip-shaking blur against the bright material and swirling sparkles of her costume. Eventually the evening draws to a close with a five-minute blackout for stargazing. I stare up at the silent sky, which is occasionally illuminated by flashing cameras. Afterwards Yamen and I walk to the car for the drive back. As I watch the dunes passing by in the still of the night, Yamen reflects on the day he experiences on a regular basis. It’s easy to understand his jubilant mood.

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Swing into action The cream of the green share their tips on the city’s premier golf courses

Q Much like the rest of this extraordinary city, the Dubai golfing scene is growing at a rate of knots and now boasts a stunning portfolio of first-class courses. Luckily, many visitors to Dubai are passionate about golf and keen to perfect their backswings and who can blame them? The scenery is beautiful, the facilities are five-star and the clubhouses are culinary hotspots all by themselves. But aside from the palm-lined bunkers and perfectly manicured fairways, what else can Dubai’s visor-wearing visitors expect from the city’s courses? To answer this very big question we’ve tracked down the top golfing pros in the emirate and sought the lowdown on everything from the trickiest holes to which dish to try at the clubhouse. Read on to see the scores.

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Andrew Matthews, golf professional at Emirates Golf Club Styled in the fashion of traditional Bedouin tents, the Emirates Golf Club is home to The Majlis and The Faldo courses. Known for its tricky holes, this is a place it is said, where grown men weep. Best feature: “The quality and speed of the greens on The Majlis is unmatched in the Middle East, so putting is a dream. The views of modern Dubai contrast beautifully with the desert-style course.” Trickiest hole: “This has to be the eighth. The tee shot requires the player to hit over the sandy waste area to a fairway that doglegs. To the right of the hole is an area of desert waste. Finding, let alone hitting, your ball from here is a tough task.” When to play: “The cooler months from October to May are popular times and I recommend a round of golf first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon. During the hotter months, Emirates Golf Club also offers rounds of night golf from 5pm onwards.”

After the game: “With three restaurants, M’s, Le Classique and Spike Bar, all of which are open for lunch and dinner, all tastes are catered for. My personal favourite is the Golfer’s International Buffet at Spike Bar.” Where: Sheikh Zayed Road When: Daily 6am to 8.45pm Contact: 04 3802222

Rhys Beecher, senior golf instruction manager at The Address Montgomerie Dubai This course is an 18-hole links-style course spread across 7,396 yards. Located in Emirates Hills, it was designed by Ryder Cup star Colin Montgomerie. Best feature: “This course is challenging for all levels of golfer. While there are some tricky holes, we have a selection of tee boxes which allows the course to play the appropriate length for the standard of golfer.” Trickiest hole: “The infamous 18th hole, which is a long par 5 surrounded by water, is a very challenging way to end your round.

The ninth and sixth holes are also testing in their own right. The ninth is a dogleg par 5, which sweeps from right to left around water hazards, while the sixth hole is a daunting par 3 over water to a narrow green.” When to play: “The main season runs from October to May. My personal preference is early morning when the visibility is just right.” After the game: “Head to Nineteen. This unique clubhouse has a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu.” Where: Emirates Hills When: Weekdays 6.30am to 5pm, weekends 7am to 5pm Contact: 04 3905600

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Francois Wolfarrdt, director of golf at Arabian Ranches Golf Club Located in the heart of Arabian Ranches, this 18-hole, par-72 desert-style grass course was designed by Ian Baker-Finch and Nicklaus Design. Best feature: “The course has unique character offered by indigenous shrubs and bushes and perfectly groomed undulating greens.” Trickiest hole: “Hole 11 is incredibly challenging because it requires precision shots all the way from the tee to the green. There is a large bunker to navigate and then players are faced with a severely sloped second shot of the green.” When to play: Nothing jumpstarts the day like an early morning round, but if you’re not a morning person, later afternoons are also enjoyable.”

After the game: “The Ranches Restaurant & Bar is perfect for discussing postround tactics. Signature dishes such as grilled asparagus salad and baked hammour fillet are not to be missed.” Where: Arabian Ranches When: Daily 6.30am to 4pm / Contact: 04 3663000

With water guarding the hole on every side, the iconic clubhouse in the background makes for a very spectacular finale

George Kasparis, senior golf professional at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Voted one of the world’s Top 100 MustPlay Golf Courses, this par-71 green first opened in 1993 and measures 6,967 yards from the first tee to the 18th hole. Best feature: “Definitely the finishing hole. With water guarding the hole on every side, the iconic clubhouse in the background makes for a very spectacular finale.” Trickiest hole: “The 17th hole. Players have to negotiate well-placed bunkers and even once they reach the short grass,

the approach to the finish is no easy task.” When to play: “The course is open all year round, but I always recommend January because it is in its best condition. Book an early morning round and enjoy the freshly cut grass of the rolling greens.” After the game: “Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club has six restaurants, but my favourite is Legends. The view of the golf course from the terrace is superb and the signature steaks are spectacular.” Where: Garhoud When: Daily 6.30am to sundown Contact: 04 2956000

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Mathew Parker, club professional at Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental Dubai Festival City Designed by distinguished golf course architect Robert Trent Jones II, Al Badia Golf Club is an 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course at Dubai Festival City. Best feature: “Visually the course is stunning. Every hole has its own distinctive look which means that when you leave you remember all the holes.” Trickiest hole: “The fifth. It’s over 600 yards long. Every shot involves negotiating the bunkers and water. It’s a true three-shot par 5 with danger every step of the way.” When to play: This course is great all year round, but April is a particularly pleasant time because the greens are in great shape. The view over the Dubai skyline is fantastic from Al Badia Golf Club, so I always recommend players start at around 2pm, which gives

them great play, followed by a stunning sunset view.” After the game: “I enjoy chilling out in the club’s signature restaurant, Blades. Try the buffalo mozzarella and vine tomato salad. The cheese is produced locally, so it’s extremely fresh.” Location: Dubai Festival City Open: Daily 6.30am to 5.30pm Contact: 04 6010111

This course is great all year round, but April is a particularly pleasant time because the greens are in great shape. The view over the Dubai skyline is fantastic from Al Badia Golf Club

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360Ë&#x161; of enjoyment... Witness and enjoy 360 degrees of unparalleled views of Dubai and beyond from the highest public observation terrace in the world, At the Top, Burj Khalifa. Explore the unique, interactive Burj Khalifa multi-media exhibits. Explore the history of Dubai aboard the 65-metre-long travelator. To experience all-round enjoyment, visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa.

For more information please call us on 800 At the Top, or visit www.atthetop.ae to purchase your tickets today.

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THE Mane attraction It’s horses for courses in Dubai, where visitors can saddle up for a variety of equestrian activities

The United Arab Emirates has a long equestrian history. One of the oldest horse breeds in the world – the Arabian – originated here almost 4,500 years ago and historically noble steeds have always played a part in Middle Eastern myths and legends. In recent times the region has become well-known for its association with prize thoroughbreds, with many of Dubai’s elite families owning champion race horses. In addition to the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup, held in Dubai every March, the emirate is abundant with equine activities for visitors to enjoy. From hoof to hoof polo matches at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club to a private viewing of the world’s fastest thoroughbreds at Meydan Racecourse, you’re sure to find a stable companion during your stay.

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Meydan Racecourse Best for: Stable tours Every March Dubai comes alive as the Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest horse race, gets underway. With a prize purse of US$10 million the event not only attracts the biggest stars of the equestrian world, but also around 50,000 visitors, who jet in for the occasion. Of course, not everyone has the opportunity to experience the one-day event, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a glimpse of the prize thoroughbreds, because Meydan Racecourse is open to the public. From October through to April stable tours take place three days a week, on Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The tour begins at 8am with breakfast at trackside restaurant Farriers at The Meydan hotel , after which a twominute bus journey transports visitors from the hotel to the stables. The first stop is at Millennium stable, which is home to 58 horses aged between four

and seven and here visitors have the opportunity to see the horses being trained on treadmills and in swimming pools. The tour continues to the Meydan Horse Atrium, which gives way to views of the racecourse and then to the Horse Connection Lounge which provides a bit of insight into how the horses are prepared before each race. Next up is a sneak peek around the Jockey’s Lounge, a locker room for racing stars such as Frankie Dettori. The two-hour trip concludes with a visit to the parade ring, where horses, riders, trainers and jockeys congregate before big races at Meydan. Make sure you take this opportunity to snap some pictures as no stable tour is complete without a track photo. Where: Meydan Racecourse Website: meydanhotels.com / Contact: 04 3813333 How much: AED250 for adults and AED200 for children aged four to 12

Not everyone has the opportunity to experience the Dubai World Cup, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a glimpse of the prize thoroughbreds because Meydan Racecourse is open to the public

Emirates Equestrian Centre Best for: Desert hacking If tearing over the dunes in a turbo-charged 4x4 puts you on edge, a more sedate way to experience the desert is on horseback. A few miles outside Dubai sits the Emirates Equestrian Centre (EEC). Held early mornings and late afternoons on Mondays and Tuesdays, riders are given a 10-minute introductory session with the horse before being lead by an instructor for a 90-minute trek across the unspoiled desert. The trails are organised in groups of 10 to 12, although it’s not unusual for sessions to be as intimate as three people. According to EEC manager Paul McAuley, who has been based at the centre for six years, the excursions are a great way to get people out to the countryside. “The peace and quiet that the countryside brings can never be replicated in big cities like Dubai and Abu Dubai. There is plenty of wildlife to be seen, including gazelles, lizards, camels and other native animals.” Where: Beside Dubai International Endurance City, near Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa / Website: emiratesequestriancentre.com Contact: 050 5587656 / How much: AED200

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Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Best for: Watching and learning polo Experience the sport of kings, queens and maharajas at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club beside Arabian Ranches. This picturesque location holds group and private polo lessons as well as theoretical and practical training on the sport. From novices right the way through to experienced riders, everyone is welcome. For those who don’t wish to stick and ball, matches are held four times a week, on Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesday and, for a fee of AED50, guests can pack a picnic and drive onto the green where they can stretch out on the grass and enjoy the games. Where: Arabian Ranches / Website: poloclubdubai.com Contact: 04 3618111 / How much: price on request

Mushrif Equestrian & Polo Club Best for: Moonlit riding With an average temperature of 36 degrees Celsius, October warmth can prove a little balmy for midday riding. Instead, saddle up after the sun goes down and enjoy a moonlight ride at Mushrif Equestrian & Polo Club. Located just past Dubai International Airport and Mirdiff on Al Khawaneej Road, Mushrif Park is spread over 1,300 acres of natural desert parkland and visitors can book in for moonlit tours, held on the night

of the full moon. The next after-dark excursion is due to take place on October 29, followed by November 29, but be sure to book in advance as spaces are limited. Perfect for beginners right the way through to experienced hackers, this twilight activity offers those with a passion for riding an equestrian experience that is out of the ordinary. Where: Mushrif Park, on Al Khawaneej Road Website: mushrifec.com Contact: 04 2571256 / How much: AED300 per person

Desert Palm Best for: Horse riding lessons When it comes to locations, you won’t find a more picturesque setting than Desert Palm. Set on the edge of town, off the Al Awir Road, this tranquil oasis of peace and calm is probably one of the prettiest places for a horseback excursion in Dubai. Riders can hack around the venue’s four championship polo fields, enjoying the beautiful scenery and rare wildlife or book in for riding lessons. The riding school is British Horse Society-approved – an important consideration for safety and standards – and is populated by a group of young, enthusiastic, professional instructors who are qualified to teach all levels from beginners to advanced riders. With this in mind it’s an ideal riding school for children, but also advanced riders who are looking to brush up their skills. Where: Al Awir Road, near International City Website: desertpalm.peraquum.com Contact: 04 3238010 / How much: price on request

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Pick your Theme Night! Indulge yourself every Wednesday with French Bistro Nights and every Thursday with Mediterranean Nights... Experience the incomparable delights of Celsius, with all you can eat from the sumptuous buffet. AED 165 per person with unlimited soft drinks and AED 195 with house beverages.

Radisson Royal Hotel, Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai - United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 308 0550, RRIC.royaldubai@radissonblu.com radisson.com/royal-dubai

Taste Smoke signals

The intoxicating aroma of shisha smoke is a common one in Dubai, as the social pursuit has become part of the rich culture of the Middle East. The pipe consists of a bowl at the top of the pipe, which is packed with flavoured tobacco and covered with a piece of pierced foil. Roasted tobacco smoke is drawn through the glass jar of water before being inhaled.

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Feast your eyes Enjoy more than just the food at one of these restaurants with a view

Q It doesn’t matter where you are in Dubai, you’re never too far from a mesmerising view. Whether it’s the dramatic water bursts of The Dubai Fountain or the tranquil beachfronts which run along the west side of the emirate, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to be enjoyed in this part of the world. Added to this is the emirate’s famous restaurant scene, abundant with gourmet haunts which boast five-star menus and fabulous locations. Margaux, located at Souk Al Bahar is wellknown for its views of The Dubai Fountain, while equestrian fans will be pleased to hear that they can take in the ambience of Meydan Racecourse if they book a spot at Farriers, The Meydan’s signature restaurant. Those who hanker after a sea view can take it all in at Shimmers at Mina A’Salam. Alternatively, for Dubai Marina panoramas, The Observatory, located on the 52nd floor of Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, is a great way to enjoy the wonders of one of the largest manmade marinas in the world. Guests to 101 Dining Lounge & Bar at One&Only The Palm, Dubai can feast their eyes on the iconic beauty of Palm Jumeirah which is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world while those on the look out for a lofty location can book a table at At.mosphere (pictured), located on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower.

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ALL THE STARTS SEPTEMBER COME JOIN US

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH THE WALK @ JBR, DUBAI T: 04 449 88 88

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Farriers Best for... racecourse view Racing season starts next month, so get into the spirit and book a table at Farriers at The Meydan. This equine-themed restaurant features a sleek cream, wood and buffed metal interior with horseshoe detailing and illuminated onyx floors and walls, but it’s the view of Meydan Racecourse that really steals the show. Depending on the time of day, diners have the opportunity to watch the stars of the equine world as they’re put through the paces on the course and as the evening draws in, the expertly placed floodlights illuminate the track with visually stunning results. With an excellent menu on offer throughout the day, the restaurant serves healthy breakfast items such as Swiss muesli, egg white omelettes and fresh fruit for an energising start to the day. For lunch and dinner, there are Arabic, European and Asian hot and cold appetisers and a delicious range of soups, salads, main courses and desserts that change on a daily basis. Where: The Meydan When: Daily 6.30 to 11.30am, 12.30 to 3pm and 7 to 11.30pm Contact: 04 3813231

While the bill of fare is, without doubt, exceptional, the added bonus is that Margaux occupies a prime position in Downtown Dubai with exquisite views of The Dubai Fountain Margaux Best for... fountain view Margaux is one of Dubai’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away on the ground floor of Souk Al Bahar, this superb French brasserie combines classic and contemporary French cuisine and the results are second to none. While the bill of fare is, without doubt, exceptional, the added bonus is that Margaux occupies a prime position in Downtown Dubai with exquisite views of The Dubai Fountain. Book a table on the restaurant’s chic terrace overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake and in between courses you can enjoy 500-foot water bursts, a dazzling light show and dramatic vocals.The menu is no less captivating than the vistas and the expert chefs work wonders with seasonal ingredients. The grapefruit pizza with mascarpone and honey is a case in point. As you might expect from a restaurant named after a wine estate in Bordeaux, Margaux has an extensive wine list – 800 bottles to be exact. Those with an awareness for wine will have a whale of a time choosing, while those not so familiar can rest easy in the knowledge that the restaurant’s sommelier is on hand to pair the wine, course by course. Where: Souk Al Bahar When: Daily noon to midnight / Contact: 04 4397555

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The Observatory Best for... Dubai Marina view With panoramic views of the Dubai Marina and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, the unparalleled vistas are the pièce de résistance of The Observatory on the 52nd floor of the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites. We advise you to book a window seat where you can look out over the idyllic Arabian Gulf and the lights of Dubai Marina as you chow down on delectable dishes such as Guinnessbattered cod and duck breast with butternut squash and snow peas. In addition to the tantalising bill of fare, this restaurant bar also wins plaudits for its wideranging drinks menu. From Long Island iced teas to martinis and mojitos, all the expected concoctions are available, but if you want to try something a bit different order the French 75, a tasty mix of gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and Prosecco. When: Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites When: Nightly 5.30pm to 1am / Contact: 04 3194000

Shimmers Best for... sea view With a picture-perfect coastline, no trip to the emirate is complete without a meal on the shore. For a beach dining experience to be treasured enjoy the torchlit terrace and fabulous ocean views of Shimmers at Mina A’Salam. With its secluded setting among the palm trees on the beach and spectacular views of Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah, this restaurant is a real find. Blessed with a multitude of dining options, here is a culinary gem made for romantic diners

who like to relax on majlis-style seating down on the sand. The menu is relatively simple – soups, wraps, sandwiches and pasta make up the bulk of it, but what the dishes may lack in complexity they make up in flavour. The perfect spot for sundowners, this is a restaurant that not only shimmers, but shines at night. Where: Mina A’Salam When: Daily 11am to 5pm for lunch and 7 to 11.30pm for dinner / Contact: 04 3666730

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101 Dining Lounge & Bar Best for... Palm Jumeirah view Dubai is full of al fresco dining venues, but for something really special head to 101 Dining Lounge & Bar. Set at the end of the hotel’s jetty, this St Tropez-style outdoor bar at the One&Only The Palm, Dubai, is one of the emirate’s hippest dining spots. Chilled-out music, twinkling candle lights and a liberal scattering of sofas, cushions and pouffes is all that’s needed to balance the stellar views of Palm Jumeirah. Naturally there are plenty of options on the tapas-style menu and the mouthwatering patatas bravas, which is deep-fried potatoes with mayonnaise, complements the croquetas de bacalao (cod fish croquetas with parsley and garlic) perfectly. Located at the tip of the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, it takes a little time to arrive at this secluded spot. Fortunately there’s also the option to arrive by boat from the One&Only Royal Mirage which takes about 15 minutes from the Al Sufouh resort. Be sure to book ahead though, as you’ll require a booking number for the yacht if you want to arrive in celebrity style. Where: One&Only The Palm, Dubai When: Nightly from 7 to 11pm / Contact: 04 4401010

Located at the tip of the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, it takes a little time to arrive at this secluded spot. Fortunately there’s also the option to arrive by boat from the One&Only Royal Mirage which takes about 15 minutes

At.mosphere Grill Best for... Downtown Dubai view Famed as the world’s highest restaurant, At.mosphere Grill is one of the most unique eateries in the world and a must-visit for anyone touring the emirate. Situated on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa, this ultra-modern setting is famous for its views of Downtown Dubai, but it also offers awe-inspiring panoramas of the rest of the city and on a clear day visitors can see all the way out to the Arabian Gulf. In addition to the outstanding views, the restaurant is known for its dècor, which includes a polished wooden bar, elegant low lighting and twinkling candles. Of course, while you may choose to feast your eyes on the surrounding landscapes, we advise that you save some room for the culinary delights on the menu because At.mosphere Grill serves a full á la carte bill of fare, with excellent prime cuts of beef, organic poultry and seafood – all freshly sourced and prepared. If you’re looking for drinks after your meal head through to At.mosphere Lounge, which has a lively ambience and soft music mixed by the resident DJ. Where: Burj Khalifa When: Nightly from 7 to 11pm / Contact: 04 8883828

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PLATE EXPECTATIONS Global gourmet food is the order of the day as Concierge takes a journey through Dubai’s culinary delights

Q No trip to Dubai is complete without an authentic Arabic dining experience, but while the tempting aromas of ouzi, kofta and fattoush are enough to temp the most discerning of taste buds, it’s important to remember that in addition to an assortment of top Middle Eastern restaurants, Dubai is also home to a host of other delicious world cuisines. With a high influx of international residents (around 80 percent of Dubai’s population is from abroad) it’s hardly surprising that the culinary scene is so varied. Catering to a variety of tastes, on any day of the week you will find a dozen or more restaurants, all in close proximity, all serving different types of cuisine. Whether you have a penchant for Asian gastronomy, hanker after European fare, or simply can’t combat your craving for South American flavours, we guarantee the emirate’s international dining scene will not disappoint.

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table9 by nick and scott Cuisine: European In Dubai there are Michelin-starred chefs around every corner, so sometimes it’s nice to come across lesser-known talents. Scott Price and Nick Alvis are two British-born chefs who met in Claridges’ kitchen in 2004. Having worked under the tutelage of Gordon Ramsay, they’ve been well-schooled in the culinary arts and the result is a mouthwatering menu at Hilton Dubai Creek’s signature restaurant, table9 by nick and scott. Named after the number on the chef’s table, at which guests can opt for a menu exclusively designed for them by the heads of the kitchen, the restaurant opened in 2010 and has already made a name for itself. The bill of fare, which is updated every three months, is abundant with delicious offerings such as the famous amuse-bouche, (which mimics a potted plant with edible soil). The mains are equally satisfying with dishes like sea bass and quail. A topnotch dessert selection, including traditional European favourites with a new twist, such as liquorice meringue and apple pie and custard, conclude the dining experience perfectly. Where: Hilton Dubai Creek When: Sun to Fri 7 to 11pm / Try: Pork belly / Contact: 04 2271111

Having worked under Gordon Ramsay, Scott Price and Nick Alvis have been well-schooled in the culinary arts and the result is a mouthwatering menu at Hilton Dubai Creek’s signature restaurant, table9 by nick and scott

Toro Toro Cuisine: South American Enjoy a feast of meaty delights at celebrity chef Richard Sandoval’s Toro Toro. Perched over two floors with a view of Dubai Marina, this pan-Latin dining experience borrows from a variety of locations including Buenos Aires and São Paulo. Based on a sharing concept, the waiters serve up a selection of tantalising tapas-style dishes. Top choices include grilled octopus and pollo estofado, which is braised chicken with green peas, carrots and chipotle-tomato sauce. From the churrasco and grill, the 560g serving of Brazilian-style picanha (based on two sharing), is a decadent combination of beef steak, lamb chop, lamb sausage and marinated chicken, while the 680g US prime T-bone is recommended for seasoned carnivores who know they’re up to it. After your meal don’t forget to head upstairs to Cachaça Bar where you can enjoy everything from the classic margaritas to the Latin favourites like Fresatini (vodka, strawberry and lime) and Latin Love (rum, mixed with raspberry, coconut and pineapple). Where: Grosvenor House Dubai When: Sat to Wed 7.30pm to 2am, Thu and Fri 7.30pm to 3am Try: Picadillo empandada / Contact: 04 3998888

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Armani/Amal Cuisine: Indian The Armani/Amal is a rare find that joins ranks with Dubai’s top Indian restaurants. Aside from the menu, which includes sumptuous staples such as murgh makhani and exquisite signatures like the vegetable Mumbai biryani, the best thing about this restaurant is the ambience. On arrival, diners are asked to take a seat in the predinner lounge where a sitar player serenades them with a selection of traditional Indian tunes. The staff, who take attention to detail to a whole new level, provide a breakdown of the dishes and are happy to make recommendations where necessary.

As you might expect from a restaurant located inside the famous Armani Hotel Dubai, the décor is stylish and sophisticated. Typical Indian-themed interiors have been traded for trendy high ceilings and sleek minimalist fittings and with wide windows giving way to views of Downtown Dubai, Armani/Amal has become a first choice for sharp restaurant-goers who wish to take in Dubai’s mesmerising views as they dine on an exquisite Indian-inspired menu. Where: Armani Hotel Dubai When: Daily 7 to 11pm Try: Tulsi murgh kebab / Contact: 04 8883888

Eauzone Cuisine: Asian Hidden away in the secluded beauty of the One&Only Royal Mirage is Eauzone, a little piece of culinary paradise. Set on a lagoon-like pool this picturesque spot, with elegant evening lighting and a handful of flickering candles, has become a hot spot for diners seeking to feast on gourmet pan-Asian fare. As you’d expect from the One&Only Royal Mirage, one of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels, the service is second to none. From a shawl to warm the shoulders to a rare dessert that doesn’t appear on the menu, no request is too much. With exceptional service and setting, it’s no surprise that the menu follows suit. Combining a variety of Asian cuisines such as Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese, dishes like marinated beef tataki and coconut and king prawn red curry are enough to send even the most discerning foodies to seventh heaven. Where: One&Only Royal Mirage / When: Daily 7 to 11.30pm Try: Vegetable spring rolls / Contact: 04 3999999

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SOF

4c Graphic Logo

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1c Simplified Logo

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t a st e /IN TERN A TIO N AL DINING

Times of Arabia Cuisine: Middle Eastern The idyllic views of the waterways of Madinat Jumeirah create a relaxing atmosphere at Times of Arabia. Inspired by the tantalising tastes of the Middle East, this sophisticated eatery borrows flavours from across the region and unites them seamlessly. The ideal venue to enjoy Arabic hospitality, its staff, who are known for their friendly approach, are on hand to guide you through the extensive menu which includes soups, salads, hot and cold mezze, grills and seafood. One delicious option is the kabis mshkakkat, which is a mixture of olives, pickled cucumber, chilli and beetroot. Choose between dining indoors in the elegant décor of mother-of-pearl mosaic furnishings or sit on the terrace designed in the style of traditional tents overlooking the tranquil waters of Souk Madinat. Where: Souk Madinat Jumeirah / When: Daily 6.30pm to midnight Try: Assorted raw meat platter / Contact: 04 3686044

With live music nights, a sophisticated open-cooking station and a sizable wine rack, Nezesaussi is a downto-earth dining spot that ticks all the boxes of an upmarket eatery Nezesaussi Grill Cuisine: Australian, New Zealand and South African The name Nezesaussi is an amalgamation of New Zealand, South Africa and Australia so there’s no prizes for guessing which cuisine is on offer at this high-class sports bar. While themed restaurants may not be to everyone’s taste, don’t be too hasty with your judgment because despite the TV screens and sports memorabilia which adorn the walls, this is no ordinary sports bar. With live music nights, a sophisticated open-cooking station and a sizable wine rack, Nezesaussi is a down-to-earth dining spot that ticks all the boxes of an upmarket eatery. The varied selection of dishes is an adventure on its own. From the ‘fush and

chups’ (that’s fish and chips in New Zealand speak) to the famous Aussie Rules MagPie to South African specialities like the Springbok Trophy Cabinet Pie, each dish is more exciting than the last. The Antipodean Glory, which is 200 grammes of steer, served with jumbo prawns, mashed potato and spinach comes highly recommended from the waiters, but we dare you to attempt the Tri-Nations (grilled New Zealand lamb cutlet, South African boerewors and Aussie fillet, served with a fried egg on top). Where: Al Manzil Hotel When: Sun to Thu 5pm to 2am, Fri and Sat noon to 2am Try: Tri-Nations / Contact: 04 4285888

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

RISE TO THE OCcASION Pita bread has been a mainstay on Arabic menus for millennia and long may it continue

As one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the planet visitors are hard-pushed to find a national cuisine that is not represented in Dubai, but if you’re keen to experience Arabic dining (a rite of passage for all UAE visitors) you won’t be disappointed by what’s on offer. Rich flavours and spicy aromas are synonymous with Arabic cuisine, as are piles and piles of fresh fluffy white pita bread – a staple Middle Eastern food. The background of pita has many versions in historic literature, but its exact genesis remains unknown. Various cultures claim ownership, but most accounts point towards the Middle East as the originator. What we do accept, though, is that it is one of the oldest recipes known

to mankind. The 10th century Arab cookery book Kitab al-Tabikh by Ibn Sayyar al Warraq includes six recipes for pita and experts believe the bread’s history extends back a further five thousand years. While the recipes and cooking techniques have evolved over the millennia, by and large pita has remained true to its original serving style. “In Arabic households pita is traditionally used to scoop up food,” explains Munir Al Khatib, head chef at Arabic restaurant Ewaan at The Palace – The Old Town. “For breakfast we eat it with cheese and for lunch and dinner it’s served on the side of a main dish. It’s not customary to use cutlery as the typical way to eat it is to rip it apart with one’s hands.”

While the recipes and cooking techniques have doubtlessly evolved over the millennia, by and large pita has remained true to its original serving style

In terms of ingredients, pita bread recipes differ from region to region, but the basic elements are flour, water, salt, sugar, butter and yeast. The sticky, wet dough is sculpted into rounded balls and placed in the oven, where (depending on the temperature) it can be transformed in as little as three minutes into a golden brown, puffed pocket. “There are many different ways to cook pita,” says Al Khatib. “I take the traditional ingredients and combine them with other elements, such as ghee (clarified butter) and yoghurt.” Undeviating in tastiness, it’s no surprise that pita is such a dominant part of the Arabic diet, but what of the anti-carb brigade? In an age when some carbohydrates have been seen as the route of all diet downfalls, are the days of pita numbered? “Never,” says Al Khatib emphatically. “Bread is a huge part of the Arabic culture. We share it with family and friends and it is served at every meal. Mothers teach daughters culinary skills which are passed on from generation to generation. Ultimately it’s rooted so deep in our traditions it will never change.”

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Make A Difference Day Enjoy a fun day out with family, while contributing to charity. Tickets for the event are on sale now. Proceeds from the sales of tickets will be donated to Emirates Wildlife Society and MĂ¨dicins Sans FrontiĂ¨res. We appreciate private donations. For more information or sponsorship, please contact us on +971 (0)2 697 9076 or via email at marketing.beach@rotana.com.

Tourist Club Area, P.O. Box: 45200 Abu Dhabi, UAE T: +971 (0) 2 697 9011, F: +971 (0) 2 644 2111, fb.beach@rotana.com

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

_THE GUIDES OPENER_DXB OCT12.indd 109

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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 1.7km-long shopping promenade, will eventually host nearly 300 retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue and Aiyanna of London.

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am

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.

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

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

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri and Sat noon to 10pm

04 5154000

Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BURJUMAN

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 11am. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

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

GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

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

04 3461462

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

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

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

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 Carolina Herrera (pictured). The mall is also home to Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski slope. For details visit malloftheemirates.com

Dubai Marina Mall The Dubai Mall Madinat Jumeirah Spice Souk Damas Ibn Battuta Mall

OASIS CENTRE

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 1pm to 10pm Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1

BUYING TIME

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

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

04 3622222

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

MERCATO

04 3444161

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

04 3198999

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

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

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

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3520222

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

04 3359999

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

Downtown Dubai

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1 04 4099000

LAMCY PLAZA

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 2 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.

SOLD ON

GOLD

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

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

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: Daily 10am to

AL GHURAIR CITY

11pm. Fri 2 to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya

04 2225222

With 200 retail outlets, Dubai’s first mall offers a great range of value fabrics, alongside high-street favourites such as French Connection and Levi’s.

Souks

Timings: Daily 10am to

ARABIAN CENTRE

04 2845555

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

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

Timings: Sun to Wed

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

04 2954486

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

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

04 4436200

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: E3

Dubai has long been associated with gold. The largest gold trading centre in the Middle East, the story began over a century ago when the emirate opened a modest marketplace by Dubai Creek. Following these humble beginnings, the souk grew to become one of the largest in the world. Today the souk has been modernised and while the haphazard shacks and oil lamps of yesteryear have been replaced by shiny shop faces and neon lights, this historic spot is still a tantalising introduction to the Arabian world.

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 2325444

Covering 204,000 sq m, this retail resort is home to 550 shops including Marks & Spencer. There is also a Community Arts Market.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Emirates Map reference: E2 DUBAI OUTLET MALL

04 4234666

A bargain hunter’s dream, covering 93,000 sq m of discount shopping 20 minutes out of town on the Dubai – Al Ain highway.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3 6

LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB OCT12.indd 111

Spice of life Step back in time for a taste of the old side of the city at the Spice Souk. Located in Deira, the marketplace is overflowing with herbs, perfumed oils, rugs and souvenirs. Be aware that while the souk operates seven days a week, many vendors close from 1 to 4pm daily, while some shopkeepers do not open for business on Fridays.

10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

9am to 10.30pm. Thu and Fri 9am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3

label stable

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

Simply put, no trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the Gold Souk. However, bazaar shopping can be daunting, so before you stop by, find out the current price of gold from your concierge. This way you know you are not paying over the odds for your precious purchase. The Gold Souk is open seven days a week, but many vendors shut up shop from 1 to 4pm daily.

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 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 INDOOR GOLD SOUK

04 3627500

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

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

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 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

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

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

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

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

04 3627011

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2

800 33232

Alexander McQueen FA Armani BV, FA Balenciaga BV, MOE Boutique 1 MOE, TW Brioni FA, MOE Bugatti BJ, MOE, Wafi Bulgari BV, MOE, TDM Burberry BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Calvin Klein BJ, FA, Wafi Calvin Klein Underwear DCC, DFC, MOE Carolina Herrera FA, MOE Cartier BJ, BV, MOE, TDM Cerruti 1881 Wafi Chanel BJ, FA, Wafi Christian Lacroix BJ Christian Louboutin FA, MOE Chloe BV, FA Dior BJ, FA, MOE Dunhill DFC, TDM DKNY BJ, MOE Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE Elie Saab FA, TDM Emporio Armani BV, MOE Ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE Escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Etoile La Boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio Armani BV, MOE Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo Boss BJ, FA, MOE Issey Miyake GV John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA Kenzo BJ, FA Lanvin BV, FA Louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi Ralph Lauren BJ, FA, MOE Roberto Cavalli FA, MOE, Wafi Rocco Barocco DMM, TDM, Wafi Salvatore Ferragamo BJ, FA, MOE Saks Fifth Avenue BJ Stella McCartney FA Tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Vivienne Westwood GV Yves Saint Laurent BV, MOE BJ BurJuman (04 3520222) BV Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 3198999) DCC Deira City Centre, (04 2954486) DFC Dubai Festival City, (04 2325444) DMM Dubai Marina Mall, (04 4361000) FA Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) GV Gate Village, DIFC (04 3600501) MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422) MOE Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747) TDM The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) TW The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 3900091) Wafi Wafi Shopping Centre (04 3244555)

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

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

art galleries

GALLERY 76

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

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

04 3477388

GREEN ART GALLERY

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

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

A non-commercial contemporary art space where visitors can view and discuss local and international artists. The Pavillion includes two galleries, a restaurant and a shisha lounge.

lawrie shabibi

04 3469906

04 3411367

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

marsam mattar

04 3988331

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

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

04 3477883

One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat. Map reference: B2

THE THIRD LINE

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

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

Map reference: C2 TOTAL ARTS

04 3475050

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

to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 traffic

04 3470209

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

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.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

04 4250400

OPERA GALLERY

04 4477025

Timings: Sun to Thu

MAJLIS GALLERY

1. Skyline from Meydan 2. Dubai Museum 3. Art Sawa 4. Bastakiya 5. Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

the pavilion downtown dubai

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Map reference: D2

This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists.

Closed Fri

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.

04 3536233

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

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

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

04 3469305

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2

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

the Art source

04 2856972

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

10am to 6pm, Sat 11am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 2pm to 9pm Map reference: D1

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

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

04 4257888

04 3450900

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dis c o ver/the guide

City tours

CREEK CRUISES

04 3939860

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

Local speak

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)

04 3536666

Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves when visiting the mosque.

Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and

Thu for one hour from 10am Guide price: AED10 Map reference: D1 al farooq omar bin al khattab mosque

04 3944448

Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Umm Suqeim is one of only a few mosques in the city open to non-Muslims. Tours run three times a week. Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am. Closed Fri Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: C1 THE BIG BUS COMPANY

04 3407709

If your stay in the emirate is short, you might not have time to take in the sights under your own steam. For an organised tour, why not hop aboard a doubledecker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck?

Timings: Tours depart every 20 minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide price: Day tour – AED220 adults, AED100 children, AED540 family. Night tour – AED125 adults, AED75 children, AED375 family (two adults and two children)

Abaya Traditional black dress worn by local women Abra Water taxi or traditional wooden boat used to transport people across Dubai Creek

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

Museums

Dhow Traditional wooden fishing boat, bigger than an abra

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

Location: Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, close to Dubai Museum. Entry: Cultural breakfasts are held every Monday and Wednesday at 10am and cost AED60 per person. Lunches are held every Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm and cost AED70. Reservations are required for both. Contact: 04 3536666

DUBAI MUSEUM

04 3531862

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) Map reference: E1

Kandoura Traditional white dress worn by local men Labneh Traditional yoghurt drink, usually served with Arabic food

A slice of life If you’re interested in learning more about the Emirati way of life, head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) and sit in on a cultural breakfast or lunch. Visitors can chat freely with locals on any topic they wish, be it modernisation, traditional dress or women’s rights. Enjoy a selection of traditional Emirati dishes laid out on the floor, including khobbs khameer (bread), lugamat (sweet sticky doughnuts served with date syrup) and balaleet (omelettes and chickpeas).

AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE

04 2260286

Learn about the education system of yesteryear at Al Ahmadiya School & Heritage House. Located in Deira in the north east, visit Dubai’s first school and traditional house, which is home to fascinating life-size dioramas.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 7.30pm, Friday 2.30 to 7.30pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

04 2253312

Located next to the spice souk, the museum contains rare manuscripts of royal and administrative decrees and photographs and provide a glimpse of times gone by. This is definitely one for culture vultures and history buffs to try out.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE

04 3937151

This museum, where Emiratis prepare local food and perform dances to Arabic music, provides a glimpse of a bygone era, when pearl trading and fishing were the emirate's main source of revenue.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

04 3946343

A peaceful majlis with antique interior ornaments in Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s former summer residence.

Timings: Daily 8.30am to 1.30pm and 3.30 to 8.30pm. Fri 3.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1

THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

04 3937139

Wander around this restored house and see fascinating paraphernalia including old photographs and currency of Dubai.

Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 9pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED2 adults, AED1 children (under eight years free) Map reference: E1

Know the law Only non-Muslims are allowed to consume alcohol and this must be in licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs or private venues. Do not consume alcohol if driving. Dancing is only allowed in the privacy of your hotel room or at licensed clubs. Avoid addressing women in public or taking their photograph without their permission. Offensive language, spitting and aggressive hand gestures must be avoided. Married couples may hold hands in public, but kissing and hugging is not allowed.

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

Attractions

FIRST YACHT

04 3754148/050 6550313

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED200 OASIS PALM TOURISM

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

04 2959477

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED2,600 per boat ART MARINE

04 4068825

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

Timings: From 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: AED330 CLUB MINA

04 2629993/050 7548466 Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24

hours for up to seven people THE YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Adults from

AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477 Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along

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

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275 per adult and AED90 per child VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

04 3572200

Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices ARABIAN ADVENTURES

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

Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding.

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 AED250, children AED210

NET TOURS DUBAI

04 6028888

Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.

DREAMDAYS

Timings: Every Saturday 8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275

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

OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 3511117

800 2080

04 3357676

See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.

04 2573084

Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises

Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

SUMMERTIME MARINE

Timings: From 6am to 6pm Guide price:From AED3,500

A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters.

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available.

per person

04 3993333

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 2340812

Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping.

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

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

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

04 3034888

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

04 2682880

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

04 3572233

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

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04 2629993/050 7548466

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6532504

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

04 2828238

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

04 2822199

Operates throughout Dubai and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi.

2 4

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

1. Skydiving 2&4. Arabian Adventures 3. Painting at KidZania 5. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall

ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

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

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

per person for 25 minutes. Private hour-long tours are priced at AED3,060 per person

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

04 2995155

Learn how to fly or top up your hours at the only approved flying school in Dubai.

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 5

25/09/2012 15:47

Don’t know where to

Brunch?

Friday Brunch at Certo An Italian-style Friday brunch with a selection of dishes served at your table. Available from 12:00 to 15:30 hours

Saturday Fun Brunch at Chef’s House Let someone else cook while you entertain at the Saturday Fun Brunch at Chef ’s House. Available from 12:30 to 15:30 hours

The kids have their own fun area, with toys and entertainment. Brunch with soft drinks @ AED 140 Brunch with house beverages @ AED 190 Brunch & Bubbly @ AED 210 Half price eating for everyone aged 6 – 12 years! Children under the age of six, brunch for free!

The kids have their own fun area, with buffet and entertainment including a bouncing castle. Full buffet with soft drinks @ AED 150 Full buffet with house beverages @ AED 195 Half price eating for everyone aged 6-12 years! Children under the age of six, lunch for free!

Half price eating for everyone aged 6 – 12 years! Children under the age of six, brunch for free!

For bookings please call the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City on 04 366 9111

ICON Bar & Lounge English Friday Brunch ICON Bar & Lounge at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City is continuing its British Brunch every Friday from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at an even better price at only AED 160 per person.

T HE GUI D E / e xpe r ie nce

FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY

09 2224747

Take pleasure flights over the neighbouring emirate of Fujairah or enjoy a flying lesson from the fully equipped aviation centre.

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

lessons AED960

Paintballing

(see Sports) DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

04 4361400/04 4361422

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

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

Timings: Thu to Sat 9.30am to 11.30pm, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED160 with go-karting

Timings: From 9am to 4pm Guide price: AED1,325 per

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

SEAWINGS

04 8832999

person for 40 minutes

04 3244755/050 6514583

Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.

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

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999

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

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings

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

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

04 2854949

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

Shooting

06 5383224/050 2032288

Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semiautomatic paintball guns and the latest antifog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours on weekdays (AED90 Thu to Sat), includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Skydiving iFLYDUBAI

04 2316292

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED195. Children AED145 SKYDIVE DUBAI

050 1533222

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

Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

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

Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com

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: 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 PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

04 3244555

KidZania This interactive children’s ‘city’ allows children to fly aeroplanes, drive buses and work in restaurants playing adult roles in a world created just for them (pictured).

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

Family activities

DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

Water parks No matter what your age, the UAE’s water parks will leave you squealing with delight. Our favourites are Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and Wild Wadi at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

MAGIC PLANET

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED100, children (4 to 12 years) AED75. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400

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.

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

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

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

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

800 28843867

Family fun

Animal magnetism

04 4485200

Timings: From 2pm to

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

Little Explorers

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

Timings: Tue to Sun 11am to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA

04 4485222

A 'mini city' in which kids can role play over 80 adult professions including pilots, doctors and firefighters.

Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to

10pm,Thu 9am to midnight, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: AED 95 for children aged two to three, AED130 for four to 16-year-olds.

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

04 4297949

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

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED30 per hour SEGA REPUBLIC

04 4488484

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Guide price: Entry is free of charge but AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card. Power Pass AED140, Platinum Pass AED220 THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

800 382246255

From the foot of the world's tallest building, watch the world’s tallest dancing fountain shoot jets of water 150 metres into the air in time to music.

Timings: Sat to Thu 1am, 1.30pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm. Friday 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND

04 3243222

Creekside family entertainment village is a great day out for the entire family.

Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 6pm, theme park 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED105 adults, AED95 children

Arts & crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE

04 3447331/04 3410144

Create your own piece of pottery art at Café Ceramic.

Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm to midnight Guide price: ceramic prices vary from AED45 to AED200

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JAM JAR

04 3417303

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

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

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.

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.

Birdwatching NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 3380201

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

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED175 for adults; AED150 children

WILD WADI

04 3484444

With its central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with fun-packed rides, this water park is always a hit with adults and children of all ages.

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3369775

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED215 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free

Timings: Shows Mon to Thu

11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children THE LOST CHAMBERS

Golf

04 4260000

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

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010111

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

(7,303 yards, par-72)

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

An interactive science and cultural centre.

AQUA PLAY

ENCOUNTER ZONE

04 3247747

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

Timings: Sat to Wed

10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED35 for two hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to

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

04 4260000

Ride the rapid and shoot down the fastest free-fall slide in the Middle East into a shark-filled lagoon. Located at the Atlantis, The Palm.

Ice skating

Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED210 for adults, AED165 for children under 1.2 metres

(see Sports)

DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY

04 4261030

For the ultimate aquatic experience that you'll never forget, meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai.

Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual

rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB OCT12.indd 120

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

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

Waterparks

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

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

CHILDREN’S CITY

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

Aquaventure Snow penguins, Ski Dubai Wild Wadi Emirates Golf Club

04 3241222/04 3243222

This championship course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II.

04 3340808

6. 7. 8. 9.

OUTSIDE DUBAI

SPLASHLAND

adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

Edutainment

04 4485200

Perfect for families and only an hour’s drive from Dubai, this is a 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 7pm (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: Daily 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m

AED150. Below 1.2m AED100

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

ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

04 3663000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED555, Fri and Sat AED660 for 18 holes DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2956000

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

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

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

1,239 yards, par-27) 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

23/09/2012 17:27

Take a journey to the ultimate Indian Culinary experience Our award-winning restaurant, Handi serves authentic Northern frontier cuisine with emphasis on ‘dumpakht’ biryanis and kababs. Open from 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm and 7:00 - 11:30 pm (Reservations recommended)

P.O.Box 42211, Dubai – United Arab Emirates, Tel +971 4 2232222, Fax +971 4 2113072, www.tajhotels.com

expe r ience/THE GUIDE

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8145555

(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

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

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

04 2573084

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.

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

04 3752222

(6,473 yards, par-72) Fire Course: (6,507 yards, par-72)

Climbing

One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.

Green fees: Sun to Thu

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

04 3905600

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

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB

04 4251010

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

Green fees: Daily

AED795 for 18 holes

Sports

04 3065061

Timings: Sat to Thu 2 to 10pm. Closed Sun Guide price: AED60 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor

Diving

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

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

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

SPECTATOR SPORTS

Fishing

Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix November World-class speed demons put pedal to the metal in Abu Dhabi.

Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2950516

Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED875 ART MARINE

04 4068825

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

HATTA FORT HOTEL

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

Don't fancy working up a sweat? Relax at one of these high-profile spectator events

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

Archery

ULTIMATE CHARTER

050 1002477

Guide price: Two-day PADI course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,850. Pleasure dives from AED400

Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters. 10. Dubai Desert Classic 11. Dubai Rugby Sevens 12. No Boundaries 13. Scuba diving

SUMMERTIME MARINE

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

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.

The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens December As the opening event of the IRB Sevens many of rugby’s powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand and England, fly in to compete. Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon January This yearly running race begins and ends at Downtown Dubai. Head to Beach Road to cheer on the pavement pounders. Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships January/February Some of the most talented players on the planet battle it out at The Aviation Club's centre court. Omega Dubai Desert Classic February Golf stars unite on the fairways of the Emirates Golf Club and compete for the muchcoveted cup.

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB OCT12.indd 122

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T HE GUI D E / e xpe r ie nce

Horseracing The season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com

Horseriding DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

04 3618111

From show jumping and dressage to desert hacking and stable tours, the club offers a wide range of equestrian experiences.

Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED300 EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

A British Horse Societyapproved 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 surrounds in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.

Timings: Tue to Sun 7am

to noon and 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED150 for a 30-minute lesson, AED200 for a one-hour outdoor ride (experienced riders only)

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

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: AED600

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: See website

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire DUBAI ICE RINK This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED50 for two hours

14. Ski Dubai 15. Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi 16. Wake boarding

Karting 04 3678744

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

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

Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for 30 minutes

Mini golf 04 8523221

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

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

04 8836555

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

DESERT RANGERS

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

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

02 5629050

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

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

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

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB OCT12.indd 125

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

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

050 5592131

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

Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

04 2573084

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

04 3618111

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

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

DUBAI AUTODROME

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

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

Guide price:

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

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24/09/2012 15:22

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

Hotel outlets & promotions

Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Dubai

Desert

04 3663000

An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

Al Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

Head to Choices every Tuesday for Indian night. Prices start at AED189 per person. Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Lebanese Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

04 8329900 Desert

Al Diwaan is a popular gourmet restaurant serving international cuisine. Al Diwaan – International

Al Manzil Hotel

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai This Downtown property offers a choice of dining options with all outlets linked to a central Arabian courtyard. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Brunch lovers should try Double Decker's legendary Friday brunch. From 12 to 4pm AED179 buys a tasty buffet and unlimited selected drinks. Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Arabic Pergolas – International Zaika Restaurant – Indian

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim For a delicious selection of Thai food book a table at Pai Thai. Al Fayrooz Lounge – Afternoon tea Al Hambra – Spanish Arboretum – International Khaymat Al Bahar – Arabic Koubba Bar – Cocktail bar MJ'S – Steakhouse Pai Thai – Thai Pierchic – Seafood

Amwaj Rotana

04 4282000

Jumeirah Beach Residence Brandish your chopsticks at the Benihana all-you-can-eat dinner from AED209 every Saturday and Monday from 6 to 11.30pm. Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian

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Armani Hotel Dubai

04 8883888

Downtown Dubai Have an all-Italian experience at Armani/Peck. Every Wednesday evening diners can enjoy a signature sharing experience for AED240 per person. Doors open at 6.30pm. Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/MediterraNeo – Mediterranean Armani/Peck – Italian Armani/Privé – Lounge/nightclub Armani/Ristorante – Italian fine dining

Asiana hotel

04 2387777 Deira

Located in the city's historical district, Asiana Hotel is a chic business property which draws upon the influences of the Far East with Korean, Japanese, Chinese and Filipino restaurants available.

04 8096100

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

Burj Al Arab

04 3017777 Jumeirah

Head to Skyview Bar for superb afternoon tea and spectacular views over Dubai. Prices start at AED425 per person, inclusive of a glass of bubbly. Al Iwan – Arabic Al Mahara – European Al Muntaha – International Bab al Yam – International Juna Lounge – Cocktail bar Junsui – Far Eastern Majlis Al Bahar – Mediterranean Sahn Eddar – Afternoon tea Skyview Bar – Cocktail bar

Hanabi – Japanese Jade – Chinese Lamesa – Filipino Seaworld – Seafood Yuraku – Japanese

Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill.

04 4260000

The Palm Jumeirah This landmark property, which is home to Nobu Matsuhisa's signature restaurant, Nobu, is a genuine destination resort with a range of five-star outlets. Those in the mood for Asian should book a table at Asian Republic. Brunch lovers should head to Saffron every Friday, which is priced at AED435 per person and served from 12.30 to 4pm. Asia Republic – Asian Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – International Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International N'Dulge – Nightclub Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Burger Joint – American diner

Auris Plaza Hotel Al Barsha

04 4554800 Al Barsha

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

1. Grand Millennium 2. Benihana, Al Bustan Rotana 3. Crowne Plaza Dubai 4. Pierchic, Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah

04 8852222

Green Community

Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar

Crowne Plaza Dubai

04 3311111

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

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

04 2625555 Deira

Bring your family for a fun day out at Spice Island. Every Friday from 12 to 4pm enjoy an unlimited buffet and entertainment for kids. Prices start at AED179 per person (excluding alcohol). Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – Internationa

24/09/2012 15:32

T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

midday merriment Elsewhere around the world brunch is known as a meal between breakfast and lunch. In Dubai however, it is a whole different affair. Typically brunch involves an endless buffet of dishes which are served from noon to around 4pm. Unlimited beverages, alcoholic or not, with everything from fresh juices to premium Champagne, are usually on offer and depending on what you opt for you can expect to pay anything from AED100 to AED650 per person. While the general concept remains the same, Dubai brunches are as different as they are indulgent. Some revolve around a central cuisine, while others are targeted at families. One thing is for sure, whatever your preference, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes

drinking in dubai / fast facts

Grosvenor House, Dubai

04 3998888

Dubai Marina Celebrity chefs including Vineet Bhatia, Gary Rhodes and Richard Sandoval operate restaurants in this awardwinning five-star hotel. Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British Rhodes in Residence– Afternoon tea Sidhartha Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Bar – Bar The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa IMAGE: COURTESY OF JUMEIRAH

04 3995000

Dubai Marina Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

04 7012222

Dubai Festival City Book in for some afternoon fun at the Belgian Beer Café where brunch is served every Friday from 12 to 3pm. Prices start at AED175 for all you can eat (excluding alcohol). Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

This dining complex is located in the heart of Jumeirah. Hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a latenight crowd, with Boudoir, Loca and Sho-Cho regularly hosting 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 at The Observatory’s happy hour, which runs from 5 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday, and 5 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday, or head to AZ.U.R for a tasty selection of Mediterranean dishes. Guests can also enjoy delicious Mediterranean food at AZ.U.R. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road

Fairmont Dubai

04 3325555

Sheikh Zayed Road Indulge in unlimited sushi and sake every Wednesday at Spectrum on One from 7 to 9pm. Alternatively if your stay in Dubai takes in a weekend, book in for a famous Friday brunch. From 12 to 3pm prices start at AED295 per person. Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese

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.

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

Hatta Fort Hotel

Although the UAE is a Muslim country, alcohol is served readily in many of the emirate's four- and five-star hotels, as well as selected sports clubs. Please be aware that alcohol is not sold on religious holidays, or during daylight hours in the Holy Month of Ramadan. Young people should carry identification when visiting bars as anyone who looks under the legal drinking age of 21 may be asked for ID.

04 8099333 Hatta

Sip on choice tipples in the outdoor pool, while watching your favourite films, at the Movies Under The Stars night every Thursday and Friday. Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Hilton Dubai Creek

hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates

04 3772000

Sheikh Zayed Road This inner-city hotel is home to Sanabel, an international eatery, as well as Vantage rooftop bar.

04 2271111

Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar

Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International

Check out table9 by nick and scott and enjoy a wide selection of European dishes.

hyatt regency dubai

Grand Hyatt Dubai

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

04 3171234 Oud Metha

Peppercrab is the only Singaporean-inspired restaurant in the city. Alternatively, head to Manhattan Grill for genuine American-style steaks that promise to tickle the taste buds. 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

This distinctive property close to The Dubai Mall is home to Benjarong, one of the best Thai restaurants in the city.

Prepare for a pasta marathon because every Monday it's Italian night at Dante. Doors open at 7pm. Prices start at AED175 per person (inclusive of one alcoholic drink).

Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International

Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian

Deira

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Catch the latest sports tournament at Studio One and enjoy bottled beer for AED25. Alternatively head to Pachanga on Wednesday nights from 7pm, where the restaurant’s dance floor is taken over by the city’s tango community. Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar Cuban Bar – Cuban Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

04 3234333

Sheikh Zayed Road For indulgent Mexican cuisine, visit The Gem Garden every Tuesday night for allyou-can-eat Mexican. Gharana – Indian The Gem Garden – International The Q – Sports bar The Royal Budha – Thai

04 2091234 Deira

Head to The Kitchen every Thursday from 12.30 to 3pm for fragrant pizza cuisine. For AED130 per person enjoy an extensive buffet and soft drinks. Alternatively, head up the 25th floor and enjoy an unlimited buffet and 360° views of the city at Al Dawaar, the emirate's only revolving restaurant. Lunch is priced at AED155 per person while dinner is priced at AED230. Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Focaccia – Italian Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub Sanabel – International

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

04 3324444 Zabeel

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

Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel

04 4440000

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

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

04 8145555 Jebel Ali

If you have an international palate and a taste for global cuisine, enjoy a culinary journey at the themed nights at Ibn Majed. Here you can experience dishes from all over the world. New themed buffets now include every speciality from Germany (including delicious rhubarb pudding), tasty Thai delicacies, as well as Indian and British dishes.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

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

Dubai Festival City

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

04 7011111

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

04 3480000 Jumeirah

For al fresco fun, you can't beat 360˚. Set at the end of a pier, the outdoor space boasts panoramic views of Dubai’s coastline and vivid sunsets over the Arabian Gulf. For indoor dining, enjoy a five-course Arabic menu at Al Khayal daily from 7pm to midnight. Prices start at AED340 per person. Alternatively, visit Beachcombers for traditional Far Eastern fare. 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

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Jumeirah creekside hotel

04 2308555 DIFC

Located in Garhoud, this fivestar property is one of the city's newest hotel haunts. Biscotti – Italian Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Cuban Nomad – Asian

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

04 3300000 DIFC

This hotel is home to The Ivy Dubai. Every Friday this worldfamous restaurant hosts an à la carte brunch. Offering three brunch menus, guests can choose between A Relaxed Affair, which is a three-course meal including soft drinks, A Tempting Tipple, which comes with the addition of unlimited house beverages and The Finest Fayre, which includes bubbly. Prices start at AED250 per person for the non alcoholic version, AED475 including selected alcoholic drinks and AED550 with bubbles. Alfie's – English Al Nafoorah – Arabic Clique – Bar ET Sushi – Japanese Hakkasan – Chinese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy Dubai – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s Bar – Champagne bar Vu's Restaurant – International

5. Thiptara, The Palace The Old Town 6. Icho, Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai 7. Ossigeno, Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa 8. Teatro, Towers Rotana Dubai

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

04 4530000

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

Jumeira Rotana Hotel

04 3455888 6

Satwa

From 6 to 8pm daily enjoy selected beverages for as little as AED22 at Brauhaus' happy hour. Diners can also look forward to a selection of traditional German dishes including bratwurst sausage. Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

04 2624444 Deira

Cheese connoisseurs will be pleased to hear that they can enjoy cheese fondue and raclette for AED99 every Tuesday night at Hofbräuhaus. Bamboo Lagoon – Far Eastern Champions – American Cucina – Italian Hofbräuhaus – German JW's Steakhouse – American The Market Place – International

kempinski hotel & Residences, palm jumeirah

04 4442000

Dubai Marina

Millennium plaza Hotel dubai

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road

Located on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, this luxurious property is home to a variety of high-end restaurants.

Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is a strategically located business hotel in the heart of the city. Drop into La Plaza for a spot of Mediteranean fare.

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

La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

Dubai Marina

Umm Suqeim

04 3993333

This resort in Dubai Marina area is currently under renovation, but will open again in November Barasti – International

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

04 3995555

Dubai Marina Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa is home to a selection of bars and restaurants. Ossigeno is well known for its impressive southern Italian menu. Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Bar Below – Wine bar Brasserie – International Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar

Media One Hotel

04 4271000

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

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Go Japanese on Monday nights at Channels. An unlimited buffet of Japanese specialities is on offer. Prices start at AED145 per person (excluding alcohol). Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Melia Dubai

04 3868111 Port Rashid

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

Metropolitan Palace hotel

04 2270000 Deira

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

04 3668888

The Wharf serves bigbone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce for AED110 per person. The deal is available every Tuesday from 7pm. Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining The Wharf – British Zheng He's – Chinese

Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

Savour great Italian food every Tuesday at The Fountain from 7 to 10.30pm from AED85 per person. Alternatively, head to Chutney's for a delicious curry or Fakhreldine for an array of tantalising Arabic dishes. Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Lebanese Pulse The Club – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

04 4440111 Deira

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this five-star property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes. Head to Jigsaw for a wide selection of international dishes or Wok-In Bar for Asian-themed tipples. Jigsaw – International Spiritz – Bar Wok-In Restaurant– Pan Asian

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

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB OCT12.indd 128

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Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 4498888

Jumeirah Beach Residence Tuck into an English Sunday roast at The Talk. Freshly carved joints, live grill stations and classic Brit desserts are all part of the fun. Alternatively, those with a penchant for Arabic food can book a table on Wednesday nights when a selection of cold mezze, grills and Middle Eastren specials will be on the menu. Both nights run from 6.30 to 11pm and prices start at AED165 per person.

a cut above

Novotel World Trade Centre Trade Centre

Oasis Beach Tower

04 3994444

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

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

One of Dubai's most elegant properties with sprawling lawns and sophisticated outlets, One&Only Royal Mirage houses restaurants such as Beach Bar & Grill and Celebrities. It is also home to Eau Zone, which is well known as one of the most romantic eateries in the emirate. Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eau Zone – Far Eastern Kasbar – Nightclub Nina – International Olives – International The Jetty – Beach Bar The Roof Top Lounge – Bar The Rotisserie – International Tagine – Moroccan

One&Only The Palm, dubai

04 4401010

The Palm Jumeirah Head to Stay by Yannick Alléno for delicious French cuisine or Zest for flavours of Asia and the Middle East. 101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

Park Hyatt Dubai

04 6021234 Garhoud

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

Deira

Tuck into authentic Japanese cuisine at Sumibiya or try traditional English food at The Pub. Steak aficionados can enjoy Palm Grill, while seafood enthusiasts have Fish Market to look forward to.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

04 3320000

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

04 2227171

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

The Talk Restaurant & Lounge – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar

Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers.

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

04 4502000

Downtown Dubai

Gaucho Dubai Hailing from London, this award-winning restaurant serves Argentine Angus Beef, which is generally considered to be the best in the world. Location: Dubai International Financial Centre Contact: 04 4227898 Hunters Room & Grill Delicious cuts of beef such as USDA-certified Black Angus prime and Australian Rangers Valley are what sets this high-end steak house apart from its rivals. Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Contact: 04 3994141

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 Tamanya Terrace is the place to head on Saturday nights as it's '80's Night and guests can enjoy four cocktails, blended by an award-winning mixologist, for AED80. Doors open at 6pm and visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views as they mingle. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports Bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail Bar

radisson royal hotel dubai

Ruth's Chris Steak House While the name doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, your taste buds won't hold it against you because the dishes are oozing with flavour. Location: The H Dubai Contact: 04 5018888

04 3080000

The Exchange Grill The mouthwatering menu includes creations such as filet mignon and prime ribeye. The side dishes such as the truffle and parmesan fries are an added bonus. Location: Fairmont Dubai Contact: 043325555

04 3248888

The Rib Room This restaurant scores 10 out of 10 for service and a gold star for steaks that literally fall apart under the knife. Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers Contact: 04 3198088

Sheikh Zayed Road This modern 51-storey glass tower offers excellent Japanese cuisine at Icho. Al Mersat Restaurant – Seafood Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indothai – Asian

Raffles Dubai Oud Metha

Head to Azur every Friday for a classic British roast. Comprising roasted meats, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing and gravy, the lunch is priced at AED200. Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar Fire & Ice – Steakhouse People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Tomo – Japanese

Ramada plaza Jumeirah Beach

04 4398888

Jumeirah Beach Residence This newly opened hotel, located in Jumeirah Beach Residence will be home to the city's first Brazilian restaurant, opening next month. Shores – International Fogueira –Brazilian

Rixos the palm dubai

04 4575555

Palm Jumeirah Rixos The Palm Dubai is home to Chef's Steak House Restaurant, which has become a firm favourite with protein lovers. A la Turca – International Chef's Steak House Restaurant – Steak House Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Italian

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

04 3230111

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC The world’s tallest hotel features creative dishes from around the world at Petals. Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road One of Dubai's longestablished hotels, ShangriLa Hotel Dubai is home to Shang Palace. 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

Head to Creekside for the seafood buffet. A rich assortment of local fish prepared in a variety of ways is available for AED175 per person. Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

04 3995533

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

A city with taste

If you're planning to return to the emirate in 2013 it may interest you to know that every March the city plays host to Taste of Dubai, an exciting three-day food festival which unites chefs, restaurants and exhibitors. The Ampitheatre at Dubai Media City is transformed into an al fresco venue where diners can enjoy signature dishes served up by celebrity chefs. Tickets are priced at AED60 per day for advance bookings and AED75 if you buy on the door. Children under 12 are admitted for free. For details visit tasteofdubai.com

Experience 5 award winning culinary styles that always gets rave reviews Teatro has turned culinary experiences into a performing art from our chefs in their starring roles. The stage is set to delight your senses from our award-winning menu with masterpieces from Thai, Indian, Chinese, Japanese Sushi and italian cuisines. With the elegantly themed decor and inviting hospitality, no wonder Teatro always receives rave reviews! Dine between 6pm and 8:30pm (last order at 7:15pm) and you will pay only 50% of your total food bill.

343 5111

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB OCT12.indd 131

343 8000

24/09/2012 15:40

T A ST E/THE GUIDE

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

04 4484848

Dubai Marina Seafood lovers should book a table at AOC every Thursday from 7 to 10pm. The buffet is priced at AED195 and includes soft drinks and AED295 including bubbly. Cheese and wine enthusiasts should check out Plantation every Wednesday from 7 to 10pm for the cheese and wine buffet. AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

Taj Palace Hotel

04 2232222 Deira

Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali accompanied by live music. This established hotel is located in Deira, which is one of Dubai’s oldest districts and does not serve alcohol. Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic Verdi – Italian

ARABIC TASTE Hummous: Well known and loved even beyond the Middle East, this Arabic dip or spread is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with ground sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic. Moutabel: This is a delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine. Fattoush: This Levantine salad is made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread and mixed with lettuce, cucumber, onion and other vegetables. Sambusek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach. Ouzi: This popular baked lamb and spiced rice dish is a favourite during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month. Umm Ali: Similar to bread and butter pudding served in the west, this favourite Arabic dessert contains milk, pastry and nuts, and is a staple dish in many buffets.

132

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB OCT12.indd 132

The Address Downtown Dubai

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

04 3994000

Dubai Marina

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai

For afternoon tea, book a table at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, prices start at AED125 per person, or if you're looking looking for authentic Italian cuisine, you should direct your attention to Splendido which is famed for its wide-ranging bill of fare

Enjoy Friday brunch at Fazaris. Prices start at AED295 per person. Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood

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

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

Every Tuesday from 7 to 11pm diners can enjoy a five-course tasting menu at Ember Grill and Lounge for AED295 per person.

04 3722222 DIFC

Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Barbecue Night. Prices start at AED240 per person and diners can look forward to a variety of live cooking stations and with chefs on hand to rustle up whatever you're hankering after, the possiblities are endless.

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

The Address Dubai Marina

04 4238888

Dubai Marina

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

Head to Mazina on Thursday and Friday nights from 6.30pm for unlimited Mussels. Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills

City dining

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

9. Zuma, DIFC 10. Rivington Grill, Souk Al Bahar 11. Pisces, Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 3994141

Dubai Marina

For a Mediterranean experience try Nineteen for Sunset Brunch, every Friday from 6.30 to 11.30pm. Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International

The h dubai

04 5018888

Sheikh Zayed Road

Head to The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina's family friendly brunch, Bubbalicious, which takes place across three restaurants – Hunters, Room & Grill, Blue Orange and Spice Emporium. Held every Friday from 1 to 4pm, prices start at AED350 per person including soft drinks and AED490 including house beverages. If you want to push the boat out, opt for the AED590 option which includes free-flowing Champagne. Children aged six to 12 are charged at AED190 per person. Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai

Visit Diademas Cigar Lounge for cheese and two glasses of wine for AED90, from 6 to 8pm every Thursday. Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar Ruth's Chris Steak House – Steakhouse

Towers Rotana Dubai

04 3438000

Sheikh Zayed Road

The Meydan

For British fare at its best head to Flavours on Two every Tuesday for Flavours from Britain. For AED179 expect classic Brit dishes with selected beverages.

04 3813333 Meydan

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience. Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house Shiba – Asian

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

The Palace – The Old Town

Deira

Traders Hotel Dubai

04 2659888

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

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai This month signals the fifth anniverary of The Palace – The Old Town. For the occasion, ladies should head to FAI every Tuesday, where AED5 buys five signature cocktails.

050 2464555

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

04 3627934

Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy a spectacular view over Dubai Marina. at.mosphere

04 8883828 Burj Khalifa

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

04 3666197

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

04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre Authentic Italian cuisine served in a familyfriendly environment . Centimetro

04 3666730

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Relax at this Italian lounge and enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. Chi’Zen

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

First-class Cantonese cuisine while you enjoy the amazing views over Festival Marina. Rivington Grill

04 4230903

Souk Al Bahar Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day at this British grill. The Mango Tree

04 4267313

Souk Al Bahar Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while overlooking The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. Ushna

04 3686506

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

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

villa rotana

West 14th

Sheikh Zayed Road

The Palm Jumeirah

04 3216111

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

Alegra

Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet. Moka Café – All-day dining

04 4477601

Expect succulent steaks at this contemporary, beachside New York grill and bar.

24/09/2012 15:48

DUBAI TOURIST MAP

N W ATLANTIS THE PALM

HOTELS

42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83

JUMEIRAH BEACH

5 70

ROAD TO

HIGHWAY

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

INTERCHANGE 6

METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

10 22 45

EMIRATES HILLS

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

40 17 11

SALIK

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

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

HIGHWAY

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

IRA TES

TO AIRPORT

AL KHAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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

DUBAI SPORTS CITY

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

10 • BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

N W

HI GH W AY

8 THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI JUMEIRAHAUTODROME ARABIAN RANCHES BEACH GOLF CLUB

SKYDIVE DUBAI

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

TIMES SQUARE CENTRE

E AT

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

DUBAILA

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

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

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

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

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

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

12 GREEN COMMUNITY

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

12 11

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

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

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

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

AL WASL ROAD

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

UMM SUQEIM

74 44

IBN BATTUTA

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK

AL SUFOUH ROAD

23 DUBAI MARINA MALL

5 41 83 54

DUBAI MARINA

RESORT & SPA

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

79 42 24 8

33 JEBEL ALI GOLF

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

55 1

A1 A1

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

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

D1 A1 D1 B2

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

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL BURJ AL ARAB MADINAT JUMEIRAH

A2 D1 E1 E2 D3 D1 A1 D1 D1 E2 B2 A1 A1 E1 A1 B2 E1 D1 A1 E2 E1 A1 B1 E2 D1

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5

INTERCHANGE 4

38 39 40 41

E2 D3 D2 D1 A1 D2 E1 A1 B2 B3 B1

INTERCHANGE 5

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Al Manzil Hotel Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Amwaj Rotana Armani Hotel Dubai Asiana Hotel Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Auris Plaza Hotel, Al Barsha Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Burj Al Arab Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Crowne Plaza Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Desert Palm Dubai Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Dusit Thani Dubai Fairmont Dubai Grand Hyatt Dubai Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Holiday Inn Al Barsha Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria Ibis World Trade Centre Hotel Dubai 3 Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel InterContinental Dubai Festival City JW Marriott Dubai Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeriah Creekside Hotel Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeira Rotana Hotel Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates 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 Dubai Meliã Dubai Metropolitan Hotel Dubai Metropolitan Palace Hotel Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Deira Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Novotel World Trade Centre Hotel One & Only Royal Mirage One & Only The Palm Park Hyatt Dubai Park Regis Kris Kin Qamardeen Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Downtown Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Raffles Dubai Rixos The Palm Dubai Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheraton Deira Hotel and Towers Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Taj Palace Hotel The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Dubai Marina The Address Montgomerie Dubai The H Hotel The Meydan The Palace — The Old Town The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai The Ritz-Carlton DIFC Traders Hotel Dubai Towers Rotana Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina INTERCHANGE 7

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

69 26

THE WALK

TO A

JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

DUBAI MARINA MALL

IRPO

DUBAI MARINA

GLOBAL VILLAGE

MARINA WALK

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

1000 ft 500 m

UNDER CONSTRUC

Ask the concierge desk for a copy of the Concierge Dubai foldout 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

M A G A Z I N E

JUMEIRAH BEACH CORNICHE

www.conciergedubai.com

HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

THE WORLD UNDER CONSTRUCTION

JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD

5 SAFA PARK

SATWA

SALIK

73 24

78 72

DOWNTOWN DUBAI 58

INTERCHANGE 1

BURJ KHALIFA

INTERCHANGE 2

INTERCHANGE 3

Stretching along the new extension of Dubai Creek, this multi-billion dollar project is a city within a city and is destined to become the business capital of the region

THE DUBAI MALL

CREEK PARK

6 56

3 ETH

DUBAI HEALTHCARE 63 CITY

4 WAFI

13 81

METRO GREEN LINE STATIONS 15 TO 20

H 14 15

35 2

2 SALIK

INES

ROAD

BUS

AL GHURAIR CITY

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

21 14

EJ RD

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

28 DM

23 12

LAMCY PLAZA

CLOCK TOWER

HALE

AIRPORT

Officially the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa stands as the centrepiece of the 500acre Downtown Dubai area. The tower houses the superluxurious Armani Hotel Dubai

A 15-minute drive from Dubai airport, the centre is in an enviable location on Sheikh Zayed Road and holds over 60,000 square feet of flexible and versatile exhibition space

BURJ KHALIFA

SALIK

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE

AL KARAMA

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

DIFC

BUSINESS BAY

11 22

60 68

5 21

QA R

19 AL

53 37

36 65 14

DEIRA

MAKTOUM

TRADE

AL K

E RD CENTR

18 29

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

62 20 76

66 82 49 13

23 TO AIRPORT

WORLD TRADE CENTRE

AL RIQ

RD 5

BURJUMAN

SATWA RD

AL WASL ROAD

BUR DUBAI MANKHOOL

ABU HAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH 5

8 DUBAI MUSEUM

BER

15 13

5 19 26

MINA RD

17 22

2ND DECEM

WOLLONGONG BEACH

TIMES QUARE ENTRE

HERITAGE VILLAGE

7 MERCATO

JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK

MM SUQEIM

S BA Y BR

GARHOUD

IDGE

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB

2 6 9

77 9

KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

MERCATO MALL ROAD TO:

16 • DESERT PALM DUBAI 7 • DRAGONMART

5 19 26

ROAD TO:

JUMEIRAH

INTERCHANGE 1

BURJ KHALIFA

ROAD TO

23 AL MAHA DESERT 18

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

RESORT & SPA

SILICON OASIS

DUBAI FOUNTAIN

MANKHOOL RD

THE DUBAI MALL

ES R

OAD

DIFC

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS DRAGONMART

BUR C

AL KARAM

53 37

MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE

MUSHRIF PARK

5 12

ZAABEEL

EMAAR BOULEVARD

MIRDIFF 5

ROAD TO DUBAI OUTLET MALL 10

AT EMIR

/OM

BUSINESS BAY

62 20

82 49 13

16 19

73 24

DUBAI OUTLET MALL

DOWNTOWN DUBAI

BUR DUBAI

E RD CENTR TRADE

TTA HA

SATWA

SATWA RD D

INTERCHANGE 2

2 mile 2 km

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2 • ARABIAN CENTER

DUBAILAND

AL WASL SAFA PARK

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10 • DUBAI OUTLET MALL 2 • Al MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA

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MEYDAN

THE PALM DEIRA UNDER CONSTRUCTION

LAMCY PLAZA

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DUBAI HEALTHCA CITY

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my dubai Local artist Hatty Pedder shares her thoughts on how to have a creative getaway in the city

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I moved to Dubai from the UK 17 years ago and the time has flown by. Originally I only intended to stay for a year, but as time went by the emirate really began to feel like home. It’s been particularly good for me because the gallery scene has developed so much over the years and as an artist I’ve been able to witness that growth. One of my favourite spots is Alserkal Avenue which is an art district in Al Quoz currently housing over 20 art galleries. I enjoy going there and immersing myself in the burgeoning art scene. As an artist I am always looking for inspiration and the souks in Deira are an interesting place to visit. I like to source materials for my art and people-watch. There is nowhere quite like this spot in the entire city. Weekends are a fantastic time to be in Dubai because there is so much going on. Thursday nights are usually spent out with friends. At the moment my preferred spot is Zuma, which is always buzzing. Fridays are my favourite day because I get to spend the whole day with my daughter, Indigo. We usually meet

1 The Mojo Gallery 2 Zuma, DIFC

up with friends for brunch at Shakespeares& Co in Jumeirah, followed by an afternoon at the beach or relaxing round the pool with friends. During the year there is a variety of exciting events, but my favourite is the Dubai World Cup which takes place in March and is well-known as the world’s richest horse race. I find so much inspiration for my work through events like this and a couple of years ago I had an exhibition called Social Seen which featured pieces inspired by this very occasion. While I continue to be moved by Dubai, in recent years I have extended my reportage style to cover other countries. For example, my current exhibition, ‘Jhakaas! Mumbai’ – A Study of Beautiful Chaos, held at The Mojo Gallery, takes inspiration from Mumbai. Dubai is famed for its amazing restaurants and my top choice for dining is La Petite Maison, located at Dubai International Financial Centre. With a distinct French theme, every dish here is amazing, but I can’t get enough of the French beans with foie gras.

During the year there is a variety of exciting events, but my favourite is the Dubai World Cup which takes place in March and is well-known as the world’s richest horse race

The atmosphere is also really nice as you feel as though you could be somewhere in Europe. When it comes to retail therapy I have a few choice spots. When I’m looking for shoes I always head to Harvey Nichols in Mall of the Emirates as this store has a great selection. Zara in The Dubai Mall has a fantastic range and I’ve also recently discovered Pantera, a ladies’ boutique at Wafi on Sheikh Zayed Road. ‘Jhakaas! Mumbai’ – A Study of Beautiful Chaos is being held at The Mojo Gallery until October 10.

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24/09/2012 19:21