november 2012 | issue 99
november 2012 | issue 99
T H E
l u x u r y
dubai edition
F I V E - S T A R
V I S I T O R
M A G A Z I N E
T H E l u x u r y F I V E - S T A R V I S I T O R M A G A Z I N E Licensed by international Media Production Zone
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Breguet, the innovator. Invention of the Tourbillon, 1801
With the Classique “ Grande Complication ” Tourbillon Messidor wristwatch, Breguet reinvents its most spectacular invention, the tourbillon, designed to compensate for the effects of gravity. Held between two sapphire crystals, the tourbillon floats weightless inside its carriage, while the sapphire dial offers a transparent vision of the complex proprietary movement and its meticulous hand finishing. History is still being written … www.breguet.com/inventions
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B R E G U E T B O U T I Q U E S – D U B A I M A L L , M A L L O F T H E E M I R A T E S D U B A I & E T I H A D T O W E R A B U D H A B I – W W W. B R E G U E T. C O M
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For every single week of the year.
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The Patravi Calendar is the first watch in a round case equipped with a movement manufactured entirely by Carl F. Bucherer. The CFB A1004 functional module, the peripheral rotor, the big date switching mechanism and the week display are eloquent proof that the Patravi Calendar is the perfect timepiece for aesthetes and lovers of complex technology alike. www.carl-f-bucherer.com
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www.braschidubai.com
Find elegance and sophistication at Jumeirah Beach Hotel Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Tel: +971 4 422 8497 Tel: +971 4 454 8778
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NOVEMBER 2012 / Issue 99 / 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 Con t r ibu t ing 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
WELCOME TO concierge
st u dio Se n ior A rt Dir ec tor An dr e a T e m pesta Sen ior Design er Ton y Sa 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.
Anyone with an interest in sport is in the right place this month as a whole slew of action-packed activities kick off in the UAE amid squeals of delight and endless roars of support. On November 1, the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix gets underway in the capital. If you enjoy tyre-screeching antics, this is your chance to see celebrated speed demons put the pedal to the metal. To learn more about this world-renowned sporting event, turn to page 78 for our exclusive interview with last year’s winner, Lewis Hamilton. If golf is more your thing, however, the much-anticipated Dubai World Championship, the culmination of the season-long Race to Dubai, tees off on November 22. Turn to page 82 to read all about this exciting tournament, which sees top golfers Rory McIlroy, Martin Kaymer, Lee Westwood and Paul Casey, battle it out for their slice of the US$8 million prize money at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Other high-profile events this month include the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, which kicks off on November 29. Away from sports, the retail scene is flourishing. Those in the market for precious purchases should direct their attentions to page 26, where they can read all about bespoke jewellery. Alternatively, for fashion inspiration, look to our latest highend photoshoot on page 38, which was shot at the world-famous Yas Viceroy in Abu Dhabi. Rich fabrics, substantial jewellery and stylish accessories abound. For those who’ve been seduced by the emirate’s world-renowned gourmet restaurants, why not try and pick up a few culinary tricks of your own? In Stir Crazy (page 96) the Concierge team tried and tested a selection of the best gourmet cookery classes with impressive results. For quick information on where to shop and what to visit, simply turn to The Guide beginning on page 109. With listings on everything from 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: Yas Viceroy Credits: Dress Lanvin; ring Kenneth Jay Lane at Saks Fifth Avenue, bracelet Celine
This month Dubai’s neighbour Abu Dhabi braces itself for the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In addition to attracting visitors from across the globe, this high-profile sporting event is a glamorous affair where the crème de la crème meet to mingle. In honour of this excit ing occasion t he Concierge team headed to Yas Viceroy in Abu Dhabi for our latest high-end fashion shoot (page 38).
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contents NOVEMBER 2012 / Issue 99
16/ESSENTIALS
The emirate’s top attractions, news and events
22/SNAPSHOT Forumla 1 zooms into the capital
25/SHOP 26/HANDMADE TALE The intricate art of bespoke jewellery
32/RACE AGAINST TIME
In honour of the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Concierge shines a spotlight on motor sport-inspired watches
38/in grand style Fast-paced fashion abounds
46/SHARP AS THE TAILOR’S NEEDLE Discerning dressers with an eye for inimitable style need look no further
53/DISCOVER 54/NOTEWORTHY ATTRACTIONS For a heads up on the UAE’s most prominent attractions, take a look at the local currency
60/WORD FOR WORD
Master basic phrases and leap the language barrier
66/STAR LIGHT, STAR BRIGHT
Learn about the historical significance of astronomy
69/TOURIST TRAIL Historical heritage is hidden in the hills of Hatta
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contents NOVEMBER 2012 / Issue 99
71/EXPERIENCE 72/FORMULA ONE FEVER
Concierge gears up for the grand prix
78/MAN OF THE HOUR
We talk exclusively to F1 champion Lewis Hamilton
82/GUIDE TO THE GREENS
The lowdown on what to expect from the Dubai World Championship
88/Male order Tailored treatments just for men
95/TASTE 96/STIR CRAZY
Pick up a few culinary tricks from one of the city’s gourmet cooking classes
102/HAUTE OFF THE PLATE
A slick mix of fashion and gourmet is the order of the day in Dubai’s trendy eateries
Q 109/THE GUIDE
Comprehensive listings to plan the perfect stay
136/MY DUBAI
Long-time resident Jessica Hudson, founder of Hudsons Travel, gives us the inside track on how to have a luxurious stay in the city
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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 an accuracy of a fifth of a second. The chronograph was born. Today, the TimeWalker TwinFly Titanium Chronograph is a tribute to 190 years of the chronographâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technical evolution with a new double-pusher, self-winding movement with flyback function. Automatic manufacture movement, 24-hour display with home flyback chronograph, time indication, 43 mm black DLC-coated titanium case.Crafted in the Montblanc Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland.
Montblanc Boutiques DUBAI: Deira City Centre, 04 294 3225 | Dubai Mall, 04 434 0300 | Emirates Towers, 04 330 4810 ABU DHABI: Etihad Towers, 02 681 1480 www.montblanc.com
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essentials
Brought to you in association with
NOVEMBER
EXPERIENCE The World
Of all the incredible developments in Dubai, The World is possibly the most ambitious and daring. An artificial archipelago of various small islands, constructed in the rough shape of a world map, it is located four kilometres off the coast of Dubai and is generally thought to be one of the city’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Visitors to Dubai have the opportunity to sail around the islands on a unique leisure cruise. The cruises, under the brand name ‘Cruise with Nakheel’, tour the inner waters of Palm Jumeirah’s crescent, offering a new perspective on this flagship development. To book in for a tour contact info@nakheel.com
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EVENTS IN BRIEF I n t e r n at i o n a l F i n e F o o d f e s t i va l Until November 2 This gourmet food festival, held at Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse, unites prominent chefs, producers and distributors from the food world. For more information visit ifffestival.com
Dubai pre-owned b o at s h o w 2 012 November 8 to 10 If you’re in the market for a yacht or fancy some ‘window shopping’, make sure you visit the Dubai Pre-Owned Boat Show. Sellers and buyers of pre-owned yachts meet to mingle at Dubai Creek Marina from November 8 to 10. For more information call 04 2956000.
EXPERIENCE Wild Wadi
Located between Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi is a themed water park with fun rides and slides for all ages. Last month the park unveiled the latest addition to the park – the new Jumeirah Sceirah. With two tandem slides, guests experiencing the ride make their way up a towering height of 32 metres where they will stand on a trap door, before being released down a rapidly descending 120-metre slide through a tunnel. Expect screams aplenty. Contact: 04 3484444.
Sleeping beauty l i v e o n s ta g e November 15 to 17 Am-dram fans will love this classic tale performed on stage at DUCTAC’s Centrepoint Theatre, by the outstanding Moscow City Ballet. The Sleeping Beauty tells the story of the beautiful Princess Aurora who is cursed by an evil fairy to sleep for 100 years until she is awakened by the kiss of a handsome prince. For more information visit ductac.org
M i x ta p e r e w i n d November 16 Go West, No Mercy and Culture Beat will all be live in Dubai for one night only in celebration of the music that defined the 1990s. Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore.
TASTE Shisha
Immerse yourself in local culture by sampling flavoured tobacco through a shisha (water pipe). This highly sociable pastime sees groups of friends meet and share flavours such as apple, grape and mint. Visit The Courtyard Restaurant at Al Manzil Hotel where you can choose between eight delicious flavours. Price: Approximately AED60.
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
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TASTE
Ask the concierge
Brunch
Naji Khattar, chief concierge at Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai shares his tips for a glamorous stay in the city
Dubai is known for its fantastic views and if asked to recommend an observation spot I suggest booking a table at Icho, which is located on the 49th, 50th and 51st floors of Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai. Starting off on the 49th floor, the authentic restaurant consists of sleek contemporary minimalist design, lending to a calm atmosphere with window seats. Up on the next level, the funky chefs are a sight to behold, providing entertainment and showcasing their juggling skills while they prepare meals at the teppanyaki tables. Perched the 51st floor, there is a buzzing bar and the views of Sheikh Zayed Road and Burj Khalifa in the distance are utterly breathtaking. A lot of guests ask where they should go for good shopping and I always suggest they visit The Dubai Mall, where they can choose from 1,200 retail outlets. With such a wide selection it’s not difficult to swipe your credit card. Skydiving is a daring sport for adventure lovers and Skydive Dubai, which is based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, offers tandem skydiving for thrill-seeking visitors. Dubai is famous for its eclectic nightlife and I would suggest a trip to 360˚, which is set at the end of its own pier. For a taste of the theatrical visit Cirque du Soir at Fairmont Dubai. Open every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10.30pm to 3am guests will be wowed by the live performances from stilt walkers, magicians and sword swallowers. Another glamorous spot is Movida, which is located on the first floor of our hotel. Photo opportunities are around every corner but for something really special take your camera to Madinat Jumeirah, which has great views of Burj Al Arab. I would also suggest Downtown Dubai because the photo opportunities ofBurj Khalifa are unsurpassed.
If your stay in Dubai takes in a Friday (the first day of the UAE weekend) use this opportunity to experience a Dubai brunch. Unlike the calm culinary experience it is elsewhere around the world, brunch in Dubai is a whole new occurrence. With buffet tables laden with gourmet food and an unending supply of free-flowing drinks, you won’t be left wanting. Our favourite spots include Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah and Spectrum on One at Fairmont Dubai (pictured). Turn to page 126 for a list of hotels, many of which serve Friday brunches.
discover Global Village
Global Village, one of the Middle East’s key entertainment and shopping venues, has returned for its 16th year. The five-month-long event is filled with exciting celebrations, shows, local and international restaurants and great buys from across the globe. For more information please call 04 3624114 or visit globalvillage.ae
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EXPERIENCE
Jennifer Lopez in concert 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. To book your ticket visit doneevents.com
SHOP
Montblanc Unmistakably masculine the TimeWalker Chrono Voyager UTC by Montblanc is a sporty and dynamic timepiece inspired by metropolitan architecture. It features a mechanical chronograph function with a second time zone on a 24-hour scale, a day/night display and a stainless steel case. Ultimately this timepiece is the ideal accessory for any contemporary man. Montblanc is available at The Dubai Mall.
DISCOVER Mosque tour
Hidden away in the suburb of Umm Suqeim near Jumeirah, you’ll find Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque – one of only a few mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslims. Known for its decorative mihrabs (ornamentally embellished indoor prayer areas), the organisers run tours six days a week. For bookings call 04 3944448.
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EXPERIENCE
LOOKING AHEAD U A E N at i o na 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.
O m e g a du b a i Lad i e s Ma s t e r s December 2 to 8 The Emirates Golf Club on Sheikh Zayed Road is the setting for this hotly anticipated golfing tournament for world-famous female golfers. For more information visit dubailadiesmasters.com
Dubai Rugby Sevens
From the Dubai World Cup to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, throughout the year Dubai is home to an assortment of international sporting events. This month the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens will provide three days of exhilarating rugby action, from November 29 to December 1. Powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand and Australia will fly in to compete for the trophy. For more information visit dubairugby7s.com
J o h n s o n a r a b i a du b a i c r ee k s t r i de r s h a l f m a r at h o n 2 012 December 7 If the hotel gym isn’t enough of a challenge, book in for the Johnson Arabia Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon. This 21-kilometre run starts and finishes at its traditional home of the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. For details visit dubaicreekstriders.org
discover Art galleries
In addition to Art Dubai (March 20 to 23) – the largest contemporary art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia – there is a variety of exciting art exhibitions that happen throughout the year. One of the latest displays to hit the Dubai art scene is The Seismic Sanctuary exhibiton by Pantea Rahmani, which is being held at Salsali Private Museum at Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz. Running until November 28, this exhibition features a series of dramatic pieces inspired by the landscapes of Tehran. Fore details visit salsalipm.com
D u b a i F i l m Fe 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 (pictured). 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
uim class 1 world p o w e r b o at c h a m p i o n s h i p December 13 to 15 Speed boat fans are in for a treat this month because the UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Championship will take place at Dubai International Marine Club. Expect high-octane thrills. For details call 04 3995777.
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Al Qasr
Atlantis
Zabeel Saray
+971 4 4486092
+971 4 4503622
+971 4 4357556
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At full throttle
Abu Dhabi is abundant with architectural wonders, but none is quite as awe-inspiring as the Yas Marina Circuit. During the month of November, many visitors to the Dubai will be making the journey to the capital to see the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which takes place from Thursday 2 to Sunday 4. While the Grand Prix promises to be an nailbiting experience, the 5.55 kilometre circuit, which shoots through the five-star Yas Viceroy hotel is a spectacle all by itself. Modelled on the Circuit de Monaco, which is a street circuit in Monaco, the twenty one corners wind through the manmade island off the Abu Dhabi coast. In addition to the racetrack, the marina-based development includes a world-famous theme park â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, as well as residential areas, hotels and beaches. 22
S NA P S HOT
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Al Qasr
Burj Al Arab
Zabeel Saray
+971 4 4243892
+971 4 3483181
+971 4 4357558
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shop MCM
For A/W ’12, MCM brings a mixture of classic and contemporary style to the table. Famed for its luxury leather goods, apparel and footwear, the renowned German brand’s latest collection, Munich Wildlife, is a return to its roots and takes inspiration from the city’s celebrated nightlife scene. MCM is available at The Dubai Mall . Contact 04 4541142.
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handmade tale Bespoke jewellery is thriving in Dubai, with expert artisans crafting unique designs on demand. Concierge gets to grips with this exquisite art
Q Diamonds? Yes. Emeralds? Maybe. Rubies? Perhaps. Sapphires? Definitely. This, in varying degrees, is the type of conversation you can expect to hear when you walk into the vast majority of Dubai’s jewellery stores. Since the early 20 th century, when the emirate’s economy was buoyed by pearl diving and jewel trading, Dubai has forged a strong association with jewellery design. That legacy continues to this day with a wide variety of master craftsman operating throughout the city’s souks and boutiques. For those who wish to utilise the skills of the emirate’s best bespoke designers, there are two main places to head. The first is, of course, the Gold Souk. One of Dubai’s most time-honoured spots, it is now the largest gold trading centre in the Middle East and a must-see for visitors (whether you’re in the market for a precious purchase or not). The other prime area for jewellery design is the Gold & Diamond Park on Sheikh Zayed Road. Often described as the modern-day Gold Souk, this speciality mall opened its doors in 2011 and is now home to over 90 leading jewellery retailers, which focus on anything from diamond setting to precious metal chamfering. The assortment of skills means that visitors and residents alike have the opportunity to snap up intricately crafted pieces, which are one of a kind and made-to-order. From vintage to contemporary, subtle to stand-out, the possibilities are endless.
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BE S POKE JE W E L L E RY / s hop
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SHO P/ B ESPO KE JEWELL ERY
One of a kind With a variety of high-end brands including Paspaley, Leviev and Damas also offering tailored designs it’s no surprise that the trend has become so popular. According Kiran Pethani, owner of Cara Jewellers, which is located at Gold & Diamond Park, exclusivity is at the heart of the trend. “In days gone by many jewellery brands limited themselves to selling in a handful of countries. This meant that pieces were less common. These days there aren’t many products that can only be purchased in one particular place. For that reason if a person wants something truly exclusive they have to go for bespoke. Our most popular requests are from customers with their own designs.” At Cara Jewellers, the master craftsmen are well-known for creating one-off pieces and, with a workshop attached to the boutique, customers can look on as their trinkets are forged. While each piece has its own schedule, depending on complexity, Pethani speculates that the timeframe is generally around two weeks and pieces can be couriered all over the world if the timeframe exceeds the visitor’s stay in the emirate. “It depends largely on availability of the materials, especially when you’re dealing with rare gems, but
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two weeks would be a realistic estimate for the majority of pieces.” In terms of clientele, it’s a broad spectrum he says. “Our client base is varied. Men preparing to propose are quite usual, but we also produce pieces for wedding anniversaries, baby gifts, new mother gifts and people simply buying something special for themselves. We’re also finding that rather than the traditional husbandto-be searching for a ring alone, a lot of couples are designing their pieces together, to make absolutely sure the bride-to-be is 100 percent in love with her ring.”
1 Handmade jewellery (previous page) 2 Forging gold at Damas’ workshop 3 Bespoke bridal necklace by Damas 4 Bespoke earrings by Leviev 5 Handmade jewellery
When buying a diamond always request a certificate from either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS), which are two of the most widely regarded and recognised diamond labs in the world Jewel rule
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Of course, while Dubai offers a multitude of choice at competitive prices (due to its tax-free status) it pays to be prudent. While the vast majority of the city’s jewellery stores are trustworthy, there are always exceptions to the rule. Depending on the type of piece being designed the documentation varies and it’s vital to know what to expect with your purchase. For example, when buying a diamond always request a certificate from either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS), which are two of the most widely regarded and recognised diamond labs in the world. This document is proof of the diamond’s exact measurement and weight, as well as the details of its colour, cut, clarity and carat. “Authenticity certificates are very important for precious stones, in particular, diamonds,” explains Pethani. “All reputable diamond sellers will have access to the information.”
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Those buying gold will find that it is slightly less regulated than buying gems because while gold is usually stamped to reflect its purity, it’s not mandatory for retailers to provide paperwork detailing proof of worth and karats. However, the good news is that the chance of being conned is relatively low thanks to the tight control the government exercises over the gold industry. This is largely to do with the Dubai Municipality, which carries out random checks to verify quality, so there
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6 Bespoke bridal tiara by Damas 7 Bespoke earrings by Leviev 8&9 Handmade jewellery
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is little chance of being taken advantage of. It’s also advisable to check the price of gold either online or with your hotel concierge, as it fluctuates on a daily basis. Those in the market to buy pearls should look for guidance from the AAA grading system. “This applies to loose pearls and for a sea gem to be classed as AAA the surface will have a very high lustre and be at least 95 percent free of any type of defect,” explains Gregor Schwarz, sales director at Schoeffel, a luxury retailer of cultivated pearls.
IMAGES COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
Retail details Armed with this information you are free to consult with the city’s top bespoke designers who will be able to offer insight on everything from colour and clarity to which trends are dominating the jewelley world. But aside from the diversity bespoke jewellery offers, Pethani believes the true charm lies in the stories behind each piece. “We sell a lot of machine-made pieces, but whenever people come in with an unusual stone, a rare pattern or a unique idea, that’s when things get really interesting and we’ll make it by hand. They often like to go to the factory to see it being made. It makes the whole experience more personal.” ‘Personal’ is the operative word when it comes to bespoke jewellery and this is the distinguishing factor that feeds the market. “People really appreciate unique things,” says Pethani. “We all like getting something inimitable. And with the extraordinary mixture of cultures here in Dubai, you’ll always find something exceptional.”
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DUBAI - Baume & Mercier Boutique: Dubai Mall, 04 339 8880. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons: Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 1211 Burjuman Mall, 04 355 1717 - Atlantis Hotel, 04 422 0233 Mirdif City Centre, 04 284 3100 - Festival City, 04 232 9222 Wafi Mall, 04 324 6060 - Deira City Centre, 04 2953225 Sunset Mall, 04 3807555. ABU DHABI - Al Manara Jewellery: Hamdan Street, 02 626 2629 - Abu Dhabi Mall, 02 6457575. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons: Marina Mall, 02 681 1171. AL AIN Al Manara Jewellery: Al Ain Mall, 03 766 8600.
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RACE AGAINST TIME With the Formula 1 in the capital, car-themed watches are all the rage. Concierge shines the spotlight on some of the top models on the market
Q To win the Formula 1 grand prix, a driver must combine several key factors, among them speed, accuracy, skill and crucially, timing. While spectators focus on the car thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the lead, the teams and their drivers will be paying equal attention to the lap times as a way of gauging overall progress. In the cockpit, the driver will also be focusing on how he times the corners, the long stretches and every other aspect of the track as he battles to achieve a faster time than other drivers. Time, as they say, is of the essence in any race, a fact many luxury watch companies have taken into account. Drawing on the natural link between highspeed automobiles and high-end timepieces, a number of luxury brands offer motor-themed watches where the design, materials, mechanics and other features are based on a car race, model or brand.
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Hublot Big Bang Ferrari
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The first design to emerge from the new partnership between Hublot and Ferrari, the Big Bang Ferrari more than meets expectations. For fans of the famous car brand, there couldn’t be a more suitable timepiece. The minute counter, which features hands and indices that recall a real Ferrari dashboard, is positioned at 3 o’clock where the date window appears in Modena yellow. Ferrari’s distinctive prancing horse motif is discreetly inscribed on the face at 9 o’clock and even the interchangeable straps, which come in two styles, feature stitching similar to the signature upholstery found in a typical Ferrari. The watch itself is available in two variations, one with a scratch-resistant 18-carat gold case and the other in satin-finished Titanium.
Armin Strom Racing Regulator Now in its second season as the official watch partner of F1 team Marussia Virgin Racing, Armin Strom has taken design elements from the team colours, watch parts from the team car and employed its own widely recognised horological expertise to create a state-of-the-art racing watch. The 43.6-millimetre PVD-coated titanium case comes in a slick matt black, which complements the red, white and black dials under the anti-reflective case.
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Ferrari’s distinctive prancing horse motif is discreetly inscribed on the face at 9 o’clock and even the interchangeable straps, which come in two styles, feature stitching similar to the signature upholstery found in a typical Ferrari
1 Frédérique Constant, Vintage Rally – La Carrera Panamericana (previous page) 2 Hublot, Big Bang Ferrari 3 Armin Strom, Racing Regulator 4 Frédérique Constant, Vintage Rally – La Carrera Panamericana
Frédérique Constant Vintage Rally – La Carrera Panamericana For the last 24 years, La Carrera Panamericana has attracted classic car enthusiasts from all over the world to participate in the 2,000 mile race along the famous highway in Mexico. A serious test of drivers and their cars, the event, also known as the Mexican Road Race has inspired luxury watch maker and sponsor of the event, Frédérique Constant to create a limited edition model that celebrates the popular race. Part of the Frédérique Constant Vintage Rally collection, the Carrera Panamericana features a mechanical hand-wound movement with the race logo engraved on the dial. Two dial variations are available, one with rose gold-plated indexes and the other with stainless steel indexes.
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SKELETON TOURBILLON
Majestic - Official Agent:
UAE: Abu Dhabi - Majestic Palace, Abu Dhabi Mall, Dubai: Majestic - Al Maktoum Street, Damas - Burj Al Arab, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Mina Al Salam, Emirates Towers, Wafi City, Levant: Al Qasr, Atlantis, Bahrain: Asia Jewellers, Qatar: Al Jaber Watches, Kuwait: Majestic Palace, Turkey: Empire
hysek.com
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Distributor d e ta i l s Armin Strom Available at Damas Frédérique Constant Available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons Chopard Available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons Parmigiani Fleurier Available at Damas Hublot Available at Hublot Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons
Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti Vitesse
5 La Carrera Panamericana in Mexico 6 Parmigiani Fleurier, Bugatti Vitesse 7 Chopard, Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa
Following on from the success of the Bugatti Super Sport watch, the luxury car manufacturer has once again teamed up with Parmigiani Fleurier to create a model in line with its latest convertible. For the new edition, the movement remains the same, but the shape has been adapted to create a more masculine look that mirrors qualities found in the new car model. The elegant oval dial, which is set on a 90-degree axis, is made from Texalium, a web of fibreglass covered by a thin layer of aluminium and comes in either blue or red to reflect the two shades in which the car is available.
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Chopard Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa With its vivid red dial, vintage numerals and flamboyant design, it’s apparent from first sight that the Mille Miglia GT XL Chrono Rosso Corsa boasts some Italian credentials. In fact, the stylish model has been designed entirely with Italy in mind, drawing inspiration from the country’s legendary Mille Miglia car rally and its famous Rosso Corsa auto racing colours. Featuring a 44-millimetre-diameter polished titanium case and a red-varnished dial with a self-winding movement that beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, this model is the perfect marriage of elegant design and precision technology.
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in grand style The best of this season's structured silhouettes and power prints, inspired by the F1
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
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Mirjana wears: Dress and shoes both Christian Dior; earrings Erickson Beamon at Saks Fifth Avenue Abdel wears: Shirt, boots and watch all Dior Homme; trousers Viktor & Rolf at Saks Fifth Avenue
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Shirt Gucci; suit Dior Homme; watch TAG Heuer Carrera 1887; bag Tod's
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Dress Mary Katrantzou at s*uce; earrings Oscar de la Renta at Saks Fifth Avenue
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Shirt Les Hommes at Saks Fifth Avenue; trousers Jecksenson at Bloomingdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s; cardigan Burberry; watch Dior Homme; shoes Tod's; bag Alberto Guardiani
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Mirjana wears: Dress Lanvin; earrings Oscar de la Renta at Saks Fifth Avenue; shoes Salvatore Ferragamo Abdel wears: Knit Brioni; shoes Tod's; trousers Salvatore Ferragamo; watch Dior Homme
Fashion editor: Naomi Chadderton Stylist: Sarah Maisey at Bareface Hair and makeup: Toni Antonia Malt at Bareface Models: Mirjana and Abdel at Bareface Location: Yas Viceroy Hotel, Abu Dhabi
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AS SHARP AS THE TAILOR’S NEEDLE The roots of today’s western business suit can be traced back more than 200 years to London. Now, the traditions and expertise of that city’s Savile Row are available in Dubai for discerning dressers
Q Does it take you five hours to get dressed, or do you insist on cleaning your footwear with fine Champagne? If the answer to both is a resounding ‘no’, but you do wear a business suit, at least you have one thing in common with the godfather of modern garb, Mr Beau Brummell. If the name sounds oddly familiar, that’s because the British dandy’s moniker has been immortalised in popular culture from ballads to the big screen. In the 1800s, Brummell popularised the full-length trousers, jacket and neck tie ensemble that has over the years morphed into the modern suits we see and wear today. At the time, his radical dress sense and attention to grooming etiquette may have made Brummell an oddity, but few these days would argue with his belief in bathing daily (though some might doubt his usage of Champagne). Looking good in a suit is so much easier when you go for the right cut, the best cloth and appropriate style for your shape. Dubai has a long tradition of fine bespoke tailoring and there are dozens of reputable craftsmen to be found, especially around the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai and Karama. However, in recent years the sartorial stakes have been upped in the emirate with an inf lux of high-end tailors opening bespoke boutiques, which cater to a plethora of well-heeled residents and executive guests. The suitmaking skills now available are impressive.
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SHO P/ TA ILO RED SUIT S
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The word ‘bespoke’ originates from the 17th century. Once a gentleman had chosen his preferred cloth, it had ‘been spoken for’. It is also important to stress the distinction between ‘bespoke’ and ‘made-to-measure’. Bespoke clothing does not use an existing pattern and is created from scratch to your size and taste. Made-to-measure, on the other hand, means that suits are adjusted from an existing template. While this can be sufficient, bespoke is best.
1 Suit in progress at Ascots & Chapels (previous page) 2 Royal Fashion Men’s Tailors 3 & 4 Hand finishing at Made 2 Measure 5 Dunhill cufflinks 6&7 Ermenegildo Zegna A/W ’12 collection
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Dubai’s finest With over 19 years experience in the region, Royal Fashion Mens’ Tailors (04 3968282) is one of the emirate’s most prestigious custom designers. Offering bespoke suits from its boutiques, located all over the city, customers have the opportunity to sit with in-house designers who are able to create garments on request. “We offer a variety of custom-made options,” explains Ashok Sawlani, owner of Royal Fashion Mens’ Tailors. “We specialise in suits, trousers and shirts, but we also encourage our customers to participate in creating their own styles as this ensures they get the best results.” According to Sawlani, the average
price of a suit ranges from AED2,200 to AED15,000 and the normal turn around time is around 10 days. “We also have the necessary infrastructure to serve visiting customers in the shortest time possible. In the past we’ve delivered suits in two to three days and shirts in 10 hours.” Another popular place is Ascots & Chapels (04 4270124), which has a proud history dating back to 1871 and has three bespoke outlets in Dubai: at Souk Al Bahar, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Dubai Marina Mall. As well as visiting these stores, Ascots & Chapels has a travelling tailor service whereby they can
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come direct to your hotel room. The tailors also make regular trips around the world and appointments can be made to see them in your home country. Made2Measure (04 3942244) is a highend bespoke tailor in Jumeirah that also sells handmade shoes and accessories. Priding itself on fine craftmanship and service, the stylish villa setting makes for a relaxed experience.
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Made to measure If you don’t have the time or resources for a bespoke suit, many gents’ high-end fashion brands offer a made-to-measure service. Dunhill is known the world over for men’s apparel and accessories, a range that was conceived by Alfred Dunhill to accompany the booming motor industry.
There’s little point having the perfect suit if you don’t have the appropriate accessories to do it justice. Shirts, ties, shoes, cufflinks, pocket squares, wallets, belts and bags all have to be considered 9 8 Ascots & Charpels 9 Dunhill A/W ‘12 collection 10 Dunhill cufflinks 11 Montblanc Star Classique Automatic 12&13 Santoni
Ready-to-wear suits, shirts and trousers are available in store, but there is also a made-to-measure service offering a great deal of options, from lapel size to the number of buttons. Luxury Italian menswear brand Ermenegildo Zegna offers ready-towear and made-to-measure suits. The fabrics are not available anywhere else and this is part of the brand’s enduring appeal. Specialising in classic business suits that stand the test of time, Zegna mixes the ethos of a family business with a global reach.
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The iconic and timeless style of Montblanc extends far beyond writing instruments into elegant watches, fine leather goods, eyewear, cufflinks and even tie bars. Similarly, for the finest footwear, head to Santoni, which is located at The Dubai Mall. This iconic Italian brand, which has become synonomous with masculine style, offers a variety of handmade shoes and boots which elegantly complement bespoke menswear. Ultimately, whatever you choose your signature style will be your own.
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Complete the look There’s little point having the perfect suit if you don’t have the appropriate accessories to do it justice. Shirts, ties, shoes, cufflinks, pocket squares, wallets, belts and bags all have to be considered for the man about town. As well as Dunhill, there are a number of high-end outfitters where these acoutrements can be aquired.
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O D Y S S E Y B Y P A S P A L E Y from November 2012 M A L L O F T H E E M I R AT E S + 9 7 1 4 3 4 1 0 7 5 5 DUBAI MALL +971 4 3398745 AT L A N T I S H O T E L + 9 7 1 4 4 2 2 0 3 0 4 ABU DHABI MALL +971 2 6441475 PA S PA L E Y. C O M
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DAMAS CUSTOMER SERVICE +971 4 4270336
23/10/2012 20:24
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motored by Italian passion
QUATTRO VALVOLE 44 CHRONOGRAPH ONLY ONE COLLECTION
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Discover Beguiling vessels
For centuries wooden dhows have sailed the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf and to this day, they provide an essential mode of transport. Dominating the Dubai Creek, these regal boats are used for a variety of purposes including fishing, diving and transporting cargo, while others operate as river restaurants along the banks of Bur Dubai and Deira.
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Noteworthy Attractions For a quick heads up on some of the UAE’s most prominent attractions, take a look at the local currency
Q W O R D S B Y A N D R E A A N A S TA S I O u
Visitors searching for inspiration on what to see in the emirate should take a look inside their wallets as images on the UAE banknotes depict some of the country’s most significant landmarks. Major new attractions, such as Emirates Palace and Dubai’s Marina Mall, Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, may have pushed some of the UAE’s older destinations out of the spotlight. However, key tourist sites, such as Al Hosn Fort and the Corniche, retain pride of place in one very important sense – their likenesses appear on UAE money. The dirham is a relatively young currency and was only introduced in 1973, three years after the emirates united and the UAE was born. It replaced the Dubai riyal, which circulated in all of the emirates except Abu Dhabi, where the Bahraini dinar was used. At present, eight different dirham notes are in circulation in denominations of five, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 dirhams. All eight notes feature a different scene from the emirates and each of these offers a unique insight into the culture and history of the country.
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Sharjah Central Souk (five-dirham note) There are two main reasons to visit the majestic Central Souk in Sharjah. The first is the structure itself, with its ornate Arabic design and elegant blue domes. Built in 1978, the beautiful two-part building was the first infrastructure in the emirate to resemble a modern shopping centre and as such it holds a special place in UAE history. Today there are a number of impressive, new malls scattered throughout the emirates, but Sharjah Central Souk, otherwise known as the Blue Souk because of its coloured domes, has a particular appeal. Inside the two vast buildings that make up the souk, vendors jostle for business at stalls piled high with juicy dates, soft pashminas and glittering jewels. There are at least 600 stalls here and together they create one of the best places in the UAE to buy traditional gifts, including Arabian coffee pots and Persian rugs. Located close to Khaled Lagoon, Sharjah, the souk is open daily from 9.30am to 1.30pm and 4.30 to 10.30pm (closed on Friday until 4pm).
Northern Emirates (five-dirham note) While there is a big focus on major attractions and events in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, visitors should not forget about the other five emirates: Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah. It is in these quieter and more unassuming emirates that some of the UAE’s most treasured destinations are to be found, including the Umm Al Quwain Museum (with artefacts that date back to 1768), the bountiful scuba diving opportunities around Dibba Rock in Fujairah and the fascinating Jazirat al Hamra (pictured), an abandoned town in Ras al Khaimah.
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club (20-dirham note) The Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, which opened in 1993, is one of the emirate’s most time-honoured haunts. Located on Dubai’s waterfront, the complex features a manicured 18-hole, par-71 championship golf course, a large marina and a stunningly picturesque clubhouse that remains among the most photographed landmarks in Dubai. Popular among visitors and locals alike, this is the ideal place for a sporty afternoon followed by sunset cocktails at the LakeView bar and a hearty seafood dinner. To find out more or to make a reservation call 04 3801234.
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Jumeirah Mosque (500-dirham note) Built to mirror the distinctive Fatimid architectural style, which was popular in the Arab world between the 10 th and the beginning of the 12th centuries, Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque in Dubai that is open to non-Muslims. For any visitor interested in learning more about UAE culture, this mosque is an absolute mustsee. Tours are offered four times a week, providing visitors with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the faith that underpins Emirati culture. The tours are organised through the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 9.45am sharp. To find out more call 04 3536661.
Tours are offered four times a week, providing visitors with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the faith that underpins Emirati culture
C u lt u r a l s y m b o l s Several UAE dirham notes feature images that represent the culture and heritage of the country AED10 – The Khanjar, the traditional dagger of Oman AED50 – An oryx, a large species of antelope native to the Arabian peninsula AED500 – A falcon, the national bird of the UAE
Abu Dhabi Corniche (1,000-dirham note) Regarded as one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic attractions, the Corniche is a popular destination for rest and recreation. The beautiful beachfront features areas for swimming, jogging, cycling and various other sports activities. It’s a pleasant spot for a leisurely stroll, punctuated by a swim in the ocean and lunch at one of the cafés that line the way. It is also where a number of major events are held throughout the year, including the Red Bull Air Race Abu Dhabi, World of Music, Art and Dance (WOMAD Abu Dhabi) festival and Wakestock Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s largest wakeboarding festival. For more information, see visitabudhabi.ae
Al Hosn Fort (1,000-dirham note) Believed to be one of the oldest buildings in Abu Dhabi, Al Hosn Fort holds a unique place in the visual landscape of a city dominated by towering skyscrapers and gleaming, new developments. Originally built in 1760, the fort was improved and expanded in the 20th century during the UAE’s oil boom. Although the building is currently closed for refurbishment, it is still worth a visit for some interesting photo opportunities. Al Hosn Fort is located between Al Nasr Street, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street and Sheikh Zayed the First Street.
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Keeping with tradition Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more to the ubiquitous white robes worn by the men of the Gulf peninsula than meets the eye, with subtle nuances in design and inherent symbolism that make a unique style statement
Q WORDS BY CLAIRE MALCOLM
In many countries national dress has been relegated to public holidays and special occasions but, for the UAE local population, a crisp white kandoura and elegant black abaya are proud cultural emblems and the definitive statement of Gulf Arab style. As the day-to-day dress code in not only the UAE, but throughout Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, this seemingly effortless look is, in fact, the result of fastidious attention to detail. To the untrained eye, the tall, impeccably groomed and well-turnedout gentleman sitting at the next table could be from anywhere, but the subtle nuances of Khaleeji (Gulf Arab) dress, make him instantly geographically recognisable. In a region where western influences and designer trends have had a tangible impact on the local lifestyle, the monochrome style of its indigenous population remains rooted in cultural significance and is a practical, everyday means of demonstrating national pride.
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CLOTHING COURTESY OF MAUZAN, mauzan.com
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Style evolution Worn across the region, the basic costume has changed little in decades, although added refinement in the form of detailed stitching, defined collars and cuffs and other add-ons have brought the kandoura into the modern age. Archive photographs from the early 1950s show the late Sheikh Zayed, founding father of the UAE, clad in his white kandoura as he welcomed dignitaries on the airport tarmac or posed astride an Arabian thoroughbred. At first glance, the kandoura may not look as if it’s designed for energetic pursuits, there is an element of layering, with many Gulf men opting to wear sirwal – loose, full-length, drawstring cotton pantaloons – underneath, which allows for multi-purpose activities. Yet the most important function of the kandoura is that its loose-fitting nature allows air to freely circulate around the body, while the traditional headdress – the ghutra – has always been a necessary garment in the harsh desert climate, providing protection from the unrelenting sun and fierce sandstorms. Although the preference in the Gulf is predominantly for pristine white kandoura, which not only reflect the sun’s rays, but also symbolise cleanliness and modesty, the cooler winter months bring with them a thicker woollen fabric and a subdued spectrum of colours including dark grey, blue, maroon, brown and black. 1 Saudi ghutra and agal (coiled into a ring) previous page 2 Coiled agal on top of a white kandoura inside a bisht cloak worn for special occasions
Saudis are instantly recognisable by their choice of red and white checked ghutra, also favoured by many Bahrainis, while white is the norm in Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait
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Subtle differences The classic white kandoura – or thobe as it’s called in Saudi Arabia and dishdasha in Kuwait – is more than a few welltailored metres of starched fabric, with each GCC nation incorporating its own unique design motif. Accompanied by the folded ghutra, which is held in place by a thickly coiled wool rope, known as an agal, even the length has meaning. In times past, a shorter kandoura symbolised modesty – and today is often adopted by more conservative wearers – while a longer length demonstrated a man’s status within the community. Emiratis are fond of the collarless threebutton kandoura to which they attach a long ornamental tassel that falls down the front, known as an afarroukha. Omani nationals
also incorporate delicate embroidery around the neckline and a shorter tassel placed to one side, as well as being fans of the afarroukha. The Qataris and Emiratis have similar tastes in kandoura, but in Qatar there is also a preference for shinier fabric and double-cuff versions, ornamented with expensive cufflinks and a collar – also seen in the Kuwaiti style. In Saudi Arabia, the kandoura is a narrower tailored fit with two-button collar and shirt-style cuffed sleeves, while its Bahraini neighbours favour a softcollared alternative with a shirt pocket and loose sleeves. With mobile phones a fact of 21st century life, Khaleeji kandouras are also frequently tailored with a left breast pocket as well as two side pockets.
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It’s more than just a city. It’s intriguing Abu Dhabi.
SHEIKH ZAyED GRAND MOSQUE
EMIRATES PALACE
ISLAND BOAT TOURS
FROM SOUK TO MALL
FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI
Be moved by the wonder of this architectural treasure which can house over 40,000 worshippers.
Experience ultimate luxury at one of the world’s most opulent hotels.
Explore the natural beauty of the Corniche as you drift along clear seas on a relaxing cruise boat.
Seek out a bargain at traditional markets or cut a dash in a modern mall.
Feel the 240kph adrenaline rush of the world’s fastest roller coaster.
yAS LINKS ABU DHABI
ABU DHABI FALCON HOSPITAL
OPEN-TOP BUS TOUR
MANARAT AL SAADIyAT
DINE AT MEZLAI
Take on the challenge of Yas Links Abu Dhabi - the region’s first links course.
Learn more about the UAE’s national bird and try your hand at the traditional sport of falconry at this state-of-the-art facility.
All aboard for this tour of the UAE capital with commentary in any one of eight languages.
Experience Abu Dhabi’s arts exhibition centre on Saadiyat Island.
Head to Emirates Palace for a taste of Emirati cuisine fine dining style.
Explore a city built on tradition and inspired by innovation. Where you can lose yourself in age-old hospitality and marvel at the wonder that is Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.
Discover more. www.visitabudhabi.ae
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Ghutras take on a life on their own in the fashion statement sense, with the choice of colour and fold a key identifier between nationalities and generations. Saudis are instantly recognisable by their choice of red and white checked ghutra, also favoured by many Bahrainis, while white is the norm in Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait. Usually made of cotton, but sometimes silk, the large square piece of fabric is folded into a triangle and worn over a tight-fitting white crochet skullcap called a gahfiyya. Resembling a two-layered ring, the coiled agal is also subject to local adaptation with the open, uncoiled part of the two rings dropping down toward the back of the head, except in Kuwait where it extends into two thin tasselled ropes hanging down the back to waist level. The art of ghutra styling offers unlimited possibilities and ref lects regional trends. Both ends can be criss-crossed over the head, one side rakishly thrown back to expose an ear or tucked behind the shoulder with the other side remaining over the chest. The agal can also be angled to change the entire look. Some styles have even been given their own distinctive names such as the Cobra, the Teacher and the Butterfly. In Oman, the ghutra is replaced by a colourful embroidered cap or with a turban
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3 Agal sizing 4 The length of the kandoura demonstrated status 5 White ghutra favoured by the UAE, Qatar and Kuwait
called a mussar. Omanis also proudly display their heritage by tucking a traditional khanjarr dagger into their belts. Completing the look, most men choose to pair their outfits with a pair of highquality open leather sandals, with stitch detailing or gold-buckle finishing, although Saudis, Qataris and some Kuwaitis can often be seen wearing socks and shoes, especially in winter.
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finishing touches Topping and tailing the look Bisht
Worn on special occasions such as the Eid celebrations and by bridegrooms, this soft semi-sheer front-opening cloak, worn over the kandoura, is usually made of black, grey or brown fine cotton and edged with gold embroidery or silver thread. Wizar
This length of hemmed cotton with an elasticated waistband is worn under the kandoura, as a form of undergarment. Alternatively, some Gulf nationals will go with the loose drawstringwaisted pantaloon option, called a sirwal. Accessories
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Many locals carry the latest on-trend accessories including a state-of-the-art mobile device, Montblanc pen, highend designer sunglasses, prayer beads (misbah) and bespoke cufflinks.
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Star light, star bright The moon and the stars are a beautiful and mesmerising sight, but never more so than in the Middle East where their rich cultural significance dates back to pre-Islamic, ancient civilisation
Astronomy is one of the most popular sciences in the world, not to mention one of the oldest. PreIslamic, Middle Eastern civilisations were drawn to the beauty of the night sky and noticed a series of patterns which they set about charting. “This was the start of astronomy in the region,” explains Hasan Ahmad Al Hariri, president and co-founder of the Dubai Astronomy Group. “People wanted to apply meaning to the patterns so they could understand why certain patterns and stars repeat themselves over time.” They linked the rise of Orion with the start of cooler weather and the end of the long, hot summer. They also correlated the appearance of the Scorpion constellation with the end of winter. From these observations, the ancient Arab civilisation began compiling stellar calendars. In the Gulf region, the dororo calendar divided the year into 10-day portions, each one based on the rising and setting of a star. Through the calendar, the tribes were able to forecast weather and recommend appropriate actions for the time of year, such as fishing in spring when the glare of the full moon attracts sea life to the surface. “Based on the dororo, those who lived inland knew when to raise cattle, when to cultivate fruit, vegetables and dates and when to sow seeds,” adds Al Hariri. Stars, not just in Arabic culture but the world over, have also been used extensively for navigation, helping to direct caravans across the desert and ships across the sea. In the 15th century, Arabic sailor Ahmed Bin Majid, who was born in Julphar in the north of Ras Al Khaimah one of the UAE’s seven emirates sailed to India relying on the stars for navigation.
Stars, not just in Arabic culture but the world over, have also been used extensively for navigation, helping to direct caravans across the desert and ships across the sea
Bin Majid wrote The Book of Useful Information on the Principles and Rules of Navigation, which, in its day, was regarded as the definitive reference on sailing and navigation. He understood that at low latitudes close to the equator, the angle of the Pole Star is relatively easy to determine at night and that the Pole Star is not located exactly due north because of the precession of the earth’s axis. “The Holy Qur’an encourages Muslims to benefit from the observation of the stars in navigation,” says Dr Ulrike Al-Khamis, the Islamic and Middle Eastern arts collections advisor at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, a 30-minute drive from the heart of Dubai. “As a result, from the early Islamic period Arab-Islamic scientists have exerted much effort
in observing and charting the night skies and the movement of the heavenly bodies,” she adds. While many Muslims are fascinated by the night sky, packed with cultural, religious and practical meaning, Al Hariri is quick to differentiate astronomy from astrology, the study of the positions and aspects of celestial bodies in the belief that they influence human affairs. “When Islam came in the year 610, it clearly separated astronomy – a science everyone should understand – and astrology, which is considered condemned knowledge,” explains Al Hariri. “In Islam, we believe that if anyone goes to an astrologer, 40 days of his prayers will not be accepted. And if anyone goes to an astrologer and believes his predictions, that person will become a non-Muslim.”
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Heritage in the hills For a day trip that takes you out of the metropolis, head to Hatta where you’ll find a rich blend of culture and beauty
From magnificent skyscrapers to manmade islands, the United Arab Emirates has become known for its ultra-modern skylines. But while the dramatic views of Dubai Marina, Palm Jumierah and Sheikh Zayed Road are extraordinary sights, if you’re looking for natural wonders, we recommend that you head for Hatta, which is renowned for its landscape and solitude. The adventure begins on the drive from Dubai which will take you along the Hatta Road. Whether your choose to hire a vehicle or enlist the assistance of a registered driver, your hotel concierge will be able to make the arrangments. During the trip, look out for the picture-postcard vistas of camels
and peach-coloured sand dunes, all set against the backdrop of the rugged Hajar Mountains, commonly known as the ‘backbone of the Arabian Peninsula’. Around a 50-minute drive from the centre of Dubai, Hatta is the last stop in the UAE before the Oman border and is a point of entry and exit for residents and visitors alike. While the road onwards to Muscat (Oman’s capital) offers a stunning adventure, the 300-kilometre drive from Hatta takes around three hours, making it unsuitable for a day trip. Instead, we recommend you explore Hatta, which has many attractions. The first is the Hatta Fort Hotel, which is a quaint mountain resort
During the trip, look out for the picture-postcard vistas of camels and peach-coloured sand dunes, all set against the backdrop of the rugged Hajar Mountains
with chalet-style rooms, rock feature swimming pools and restaurants. Another of the major points of interest is the Hatta Heritage Village, which is your opportunity to step back in time and learn about the various trades that created a livelihood for the Hatta people. Originally built in the 16th century the township was constructed from materials readily available at the time, such as mud, palm trees, trunks and reeds and has been renovated over the years. Apart from a bit of restoration the architecture is completely authentic. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, no trip to Hatta is complete without a visit to Hatta Pools. The natural water ponds are located around 30-minutes drive from Hatta Fort Hotel. An oasis of calm and serenity, typically, visitors park up on the rocks that surround the pools and trek down to the water where it’s common to enjoy a picnic, followed by a swim in the cool waters. If you don’t want to busy yourself with catering duties, you can skip the picnic and head back to Hatta Fort Hotel, where a pool-side restaurant provides a tranquil dining experience. As one of the only up-market hotels in the area this property is a popular place for visitors to Hatta, so if you’re planning to dine there, be sure to book ahead.
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EXPERIENCE Strides ahead
Camel racing is extremely popular in Dubai and those keen to experience it can do so at the purpose-built venues in Lisaili, which is approximately 35 kilometres from Dubai. The season runs from October to the end of April and takes place on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and national holidays. For more information contact the Dubai Camel Racing Club on 050 7740005.
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AB U D H AB I GRA N D PRI X / E XP E R IE NCE
FORMULA ONE FEVER High-speed thrills, glamorous parties and mega concerts await at the 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Q Towards the end of October, visitor arrivals in Abu Dhabi begin to spike. As the month draws to a close, hotel rooms become completely booked up. By the time November rolls around, the city is heaving with racing fans from all over the world here to attend the social and sporting event of the year, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Each year, around 50,000 people pass through the gates of Yas Marina Circuit to attend the event. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just for die-hard racing fans: people come to enjoy a range of activities, from concerts featuring major international performers and lavish parties to gala dinners and balls attended by celebrities, drivers and other VIP guests. For three days, Yas Marina Circuit is a whirlwind of activity with as many diversions being enjoyed off the track as there are on. Nevertheless, all this fanfare and excitement does build up towards one major event, the Grand Prix on Sunday 4, when the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading Formula 1 race drivers battle it out for a place on the Abu Dhabi podium and, perhaps, for the title of overall World Champion.
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“Those sitting in the West Grandstand will have the extraordinary experience of seeing the cars belt towards them at 300 km per hour”
The build-up
Prime location
T h e pa r t i e s
For three-day ticket holders, it all kicks off on November 1 with the pit lane walk, a chance to see some of the drivers and admire the cars up close as the teams prepare them for the practice race. According to Saud al Qaydi, motor sport executive at Yas Marina Circuit, the pit lane walk is one of the best ways to make the most out of the weekend. “It’s an experience you don’t get at many races. Visitors can walk right by all the teams as they prepare for the practice race and it’s really exciting to watch.” Friday brings the drivers out onto the track for the first time for the Formula 1 practice sessions. This is a chance for the teams to test their cars on the track and get to grips with the challenges they will face on the day of the race. There are plenty of them. Designed by renowned track architect Hermann Tilke, the circuit at Yas Marina is considered one of the most demanding in the world with a number of high-speed sections, including the longest straight in Formula 1, some extremely tight corners and a twisting, street-circuit-style zone.
With so many interesting features scattered around the circuit, choosing where to sit can be tricky. It really depends on what you’re looking for, says Malek Rawas Al Rashedi, senior director of support services at Yas Marina Circuit. From the North Grandstand, spectators can see drivers tackle many of the track’s most technical aspects, including the circuit’s tightest hairpin turn, while those sitting in the West Grandstand will have the extraordinary experience of seeing the cars belt towards them at 300 kilometres per hour along the main straight. “If you want the action of the start and finish lines and the F1 pit lane, then go for the Main Grandstand although the South Grandstand really has the best views with the backdrop of the Marina as it’s filled with yachts on race day. However, for a V8 fan watching the Australian V8 Supercar Championship races, which takes place the same weekend, the Marina Grandstand is ideal. It’s right where the pit lanes are situated for that race so you can see a lot of action.”
The Chequered Flag Ball will be held at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island on Friday November 2. Tickets cost from AED2,000 per person and include a champagne reception, four-course gourmet dinner and an open bar until the ball finishes at 3am. Contact: 04 4456842 for more information. Amber Lounge Abu Dhabi will set up at Yas Links Golf Club on Saadiyat Island from November 2 to 4. Prices cost from AED3,400 per person to AED27,400 for a table of eight. Contact: 055 2914013.
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B O R N
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COLLECTION fLEurIEr AMADEO ® ”MILLE fLEurS”
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Away from the track The Yasalam after-race concerts attract almost as much attention as the race itself. This year, race-goers can look forward to a star-studded line-up with Kylie Minogue set to perform on Friday, Nickleback on Saturday and American rap legend, Eminem to round off the weekend on Sunday. During the day, the F1 Village and Oasis areas keep children and adults entertained with live music, interactive games and competitions, jugglers, break dancers and other performers. Food stalls selling snacks and drinks are available for a quick bite while those who prefer a sit-down meal can head over to the Yas Viceroy hotel, where restaurants will be offering a range of brunches, buffets and gourmet dining options throughout the weekend. In the evenings those with invites can carry on the fun at a series of red carpet parties that take place over the weekend. Always popular is the incredibly glamorous Chequered Flag Ball, which has been attended by the likes of Hugh Grant, Boris
Need to know Formula 1 is extremely loud and can cause damage to eardrums. Bring earplugs or buy some at the circuit. Food and drink is not allowed into the venue. Refreshment can be bought in the Oasis Village and grandstands. In addition, free water will be available at locations around the circuit. Different tickets allow entry on different days. Make sure you bring the right ticket. There are numerous ATMs at the circuit. Unlike other years, concert-goers need to collect a wristband from Yas Marina Circuit each day or they will be denied entry. Autograph sessions with drivers will be held throughout the weekend. Visit yasmarinacircuit.ae for updates on who, where and when.
Becker and David Coulthard in past years. Another place to party with famous actors, sports stars and F1 drivers is Amber Lounge, which this year will feature two live performances by Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas.
The big race Come Sunday and the atmosphere multiplies in intensity as the drivers take their places on the grid for the Grand Prix. With 55 laps to complete over a total distance of 305.355 kilometres at average speeds of 195 kilometres per hour, they have their work cut out. Last year it was British driver Lewis Hamilton who took the trophy, breaking Sebastian Vettelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two-year winning streak at the circuit. This year, Hamilton says, he is going for back-to-back wins. With Vettel 62 points ahead of him at the time of going to press, Hamilton will need a victory in Abu Dhabi if heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to have any chance at claiming his second world champion title.
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MAN OF THE HOUR Lewis Hamilton takes time out of his busy racing schedule to chat to Concierge ahead of the 2012 Forumla 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Q The records Lewis Hamilton has set are outnumbered only by the trophies, titles and awards he has won. He began his glittering career as the youngest driver, aged just 13, to be offered and fulfill a Formula 1 contract before going on to become the youngest ever Formula 1 world champion (at the time). Along the way he claimed the highest number of wins in a season debut and, unusually, became the first and only driver ever to have his car recovered by a crane and put back on the track during a Formula 1 race. Last year, he showed UAE crowds just what he was capable of when he stormed to victory at the 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and this year the stands will be packed with fans hoping to see him do the same again. It was an important win. The 2011 season was a tough one for Hamilton who had several setbacks early on. When he crossed the finish line in first place it was, he says, a huge feeling of satisfaction coupled with relief. “Last year was a very tough season because one team and one driver dominated most of the races, which made it difficult to get a breakthrough result. “Everything came together at Abu Dhabi. I qualified on the front row and led pretty much the whole way.” This was the first time that Hamilton, who lost out the preceding year to fellow Formula 1 wunderkind Sebastian Vettel, won at Yas Marina. “It’s always nice to win at a circuit for the first time. It’s a new experience and I was pleased to tick this one off my list, especially as I’d led and lost out in 2009,” he adds.
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This year, Hamilton has added a few more firsts to his ever-expanding list of personal records. His win at Monza in the Italian Grand Prix was a particular victory, he says, because it was the final step in collecting an F1 grand slam, given to victories at the sport’s four oldest and most historic circuits: Monza, Silverstone, Monaco and Spa-Francorchamps. “As with every season, there have been ups and downs. I’ve had three victories, one in Canada, which is one of my favourite races on the calendar, one in Hungary and the one in Monza, which completed the grand slam making it a personal milestone. I’ve got the whole set now and that makes me very proud.” Among the highlights of his career was lining up on the grid at Melbourne in 2007, he says. “That was the moment when it suddenly hit me that I was a Formula 1 driver and that I was lining up alongside Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen, people I’d watched on the television when I was growing up. Suddenly it all felt real and that was an incredible moment of realisation. It’s been non-stop ever since.” Hamilton’s passion for motor sports began early on. At the age of 10, he famously approached the McLaren team principal,
Ron Dennis while attending the Autosport Awards ceremony, informing him that he wanted to race for him one day. In signing Hamilton’s autograph book, Dennis replied: “Phone me in nine years and we’ll sort something out.” Three years later it was Dennis that called Hamilton after the young driver’s performance on the karting circuits became too impressive to overlook. Hamilton had begun karting in 1993 at the age of eight and quickly shot through the ranks, winning in the Cadet class, cleaning up in the Junior Yamaha in 1997 and claiming his second British Championship by the time he came into contact with Dennis once more. Placing Hamilton firmly on the path to Formula 1, Dennis signed him up to the McLaren driver development programme. True to form, the young protégée raced through the ranks, claiming the European Championship title in 2000 with maximum points. The following year, Hamilton got his first experience of driving against a racing legend when seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher made a one-off return to karts and competed against Hamilton alongside other future F1 drivers.
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Hamilton got his first experience of driving against a racing legend when seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacker made a one-off return to karts and competed against Hamilton alongside other future Formula 1 drivers 1 Lewis Hamilton, TAG Heuer brand ambassador
The German driver was impressed by the young karter and afterwards described him as a quality driver. “If he keeps this up I’m sure he will reach F1. It’s something special to see a kid of his age out on the circuit. He’s clearly got the right racing mentality.” He was right. Seven years later, ironically just as Schumacker was announcing his retirement, McLaren signed Hamilton to partner Fernando Alsonso for the 2007 season. McLaren wasn’t the only one to place its faith in the young driver. Swiss watch creators, TAG Heuer was quick to sign him up as an ambassador to the brand and he has worn its designs ever since. It’s an ideal partnerships, Hamilton says. “TAG Heuer is a very important brand within motor sport. It has been Formula 1’s official timekeeper for 20 years and it’s great to share the role with guys like Ayrton Senna and Mika Hakkinen guys who are my racing heroes.”
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The watch Hamilton wears, the TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 1887 Automatic Chronograph is designed specifically with high intensity sports in mind. The Carrera Series was first conceived in 1964, when brand founder, Jack Heuer created it in honour of the Carrera Panamericana Mexico, the most gruelling automobile endurance race in history. Hamilton describes his model as a modern classic with “all the elements of a classic timepiece, but with a modern twist”. Armed with a Formula 1 contract, a prestigious brand association and buckets of raw talent, Hamilton quickly built himself a reputation as one of the best drivers on the Formula 1 circuit today, earning the World Champion title in 2008 after only two seasons. Five years later his passion for the sport remains as strong as ever. “Every time I get in the car, I still feel grateful for having a job as a Formula 1 driver. I never take it for granted.” It’s hard work. When he’s in training he follows a rigorous routine, beginning with an early morning run that lasts around 90 minutes. This is the length of an average grand prix so it’s the best way to replicate the fitness levels needed in the car, he explains. “After that I
might have some lunch and then spend two or three hours in the gym focusing on core and strength work.” Racing in a Formula 1 grand prix is not just about physical fitness, a driver must be mentally prepared too. “Before a race I like to listen to music to get myself relaxed and into the zone. While it’s relatively straightforward to train your body to adapt to the physical demands of driving flat-out for two hours, it can be difficult to mentally prepare for the stress of a race. “I always relax in my room by listening to music – it helps me to focus so that I am perfectly ready to start the race in a positive frame of mind.” Once on track, Hamilton wastes no time fighting for the lead. His driving style, he acknowledges, has frequently been described as aggressive, but he disagrees. “I don’t think that’s a particularly accurate description. I like to attack, but if you’re not smooth and controlled then you’re not going to get the best from the car. You have to be a smooth driver to look after the tyres properly too. I guess I’d most like to be known as an entertainer, a driver who gets the fans excited during a grand prix.”
2 TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 1887 Automatic Chronograph
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guide to the greens As Dubai prepares to welcome some of the greatest players on the planet for the DP World Tour Championship, Concierge gives you the lowdown on what to expect from this world-famous golfing event
Q W o r d s b y A l a n E we n s
This month, from November 22 to 25, the cream of golf’s European Tour will gather in Dubai for the DP World Tour Championship. To describe the occasion as ‘exciting’ would be something of an understatement. A world-famous golfing event, this three-day competition is the finale of the Race to Dubai and the culmination of a season that has seen 46 games take place in 25 destinations. Along the way a wealth of new faces and experienced pros have taken home titles and trophies, but their eyes have undoubtedly been on the prize of the DP World Tour Championship, which is the richest contest in the region with a total prize purse of $8 million. Competition has been stiff, to say the least. With qualification open only to the top 60 in the Race to Dubai, only the very best of 2012 will step onto the first tee of the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Among the famous faces expected are world number one Rory McIlroy, defending Race to Dubai champion Luke Donald and former European and world number one Lee Westwood. The good news doesn’t stop there because admission is complimentary to the public. “Entrance to the tournament will be free of charge,” says Nick Tarrat, European Tour International Director – Dubai. “It has proved to be a very popular initiative with more than 40,000 spectators coming to Jumeirah Golf Estates every year since we began the event. Not only do the fans get to see some of the world’s biggest names in action for all four days, they can also enjoy the family atmosphere that goes with the end of season golf party.” Of course, not everybody is a regular at golfing events and while UAE residents and visitors may fancy the idea of seeing some of the biggest names in golf stalk each other on the greens, if it’s your first time attending the event, it’s difficult to know what to expect. With this in mind, over the next few pages we’ve put together a guide to the DP World Tour Championship with everything you need to know from the best vantage points to ‘green etiquette’. All that’s left for you to do is enjoy the play.
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Where to go You’ve registered online, printed your season ticket and now you want to follow the top players as they go toe to toe, but where do you start? There are few better places to begin speculating than the first tee where the Voice of the European Tour, Ivor Robson, will announce the players as they start their rounds. Get there early enough to grab a place right behind the advertising banners and get up close to the star players. For a special golfing atmosphere, few spots on the course rival the popular Left Bank with its great views of one of the best holes – the famous par three 17th. Alternatively fans keen to see the final shots of each round should head for a grandstand seat overlooking the 18th green. However, a word of advice – if you plan on being at the 18th green grandstand for the final day, be sure to secure your place early in the day as reservations are not possible and demand will be high. Play will begin from 7am onwards with food outlets around the Greg Norman-designed course offering everything from snacks and soft drinks to fish and chips and full meals. A Kids’ Zone promises to keep the younger members of the family entertained, while live TV and radio broadcasts throughout the four days will keep fans up to date with all the action.
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1 Luke Donald 2 David Edwards 3 Alvaro Quiros
For a special golfing atmosphere, few spots on the course rival the popular Left Bank with its great views of one of the best holes
Who to watch It’s all very well staking out the prime positions on course, but if you don’t know who you’re tracking, much of the tournament will be lost on you. Among the assortment of world-class players who will be participating in the event are a few names which should definitely be on your ‘ones to watch’ list. Former tour pro David Edwards, who is adept at keeping the crowds – and players – enthralled with his extraordinary array of trick shots, is a huge fan of the event calling it “the highlight” of the
season. “Everyone is talking about the DP World Tour Championship so I’m looking forward to returning to the grand finale of the European season,” says the man regarded by many as one of the best trick-shot entertainers in the world. Edwards currently holds the world record for his famous scissor hands shots – 310 balls in just three minutes – and will be demonstrating his trick shot talents on the driving range every day during the tournament. Another must-watch is Lee Westwood. Winner of the event in 2009, Westwood is
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in no doubt the tournament is established as a must-play for the pros. “If you ever wanted a tournament to burst on to the scene, the 2009 event in Dubai was probably as good as it gets,” he says. “I think Dubai, the golf course and the European Tour came out of it looking fantastic. It’s a great effort for golf in the region and a great advert for golf on the European Tour.” Like McIlroy – the current leader of the Race to Dubai at the time of writing – Westwood will be one of the big guns to watch out for. Others likely to be in the frame include Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter, who narrowly lost a play-off to 2010 winner Robert Karlsson and former Open Champion Paul Lawrie who is enjoying a massive return to form after finishing runner-up at the Earth course last year and winning in Qatar earlier this year.
How to behave Other than following the stars as they go up and down the greens, there are a few rules which must be observed when attending a golf tournament of this calibre. For a start, if you must bring your mobile phone, make sure it is switched off when games are in play. Nothing is more frowned upon than a ring tone in a back swing. Likewise, taking photographs of the players while they are in
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action is another big ‘no-no’. If you’re yet to experience a golfer swivel and angrily stare at a snapping spectator, we suggest you keep it that way. Another important rule is to dispose of your rubbish in the bins provided and to keep quiet and stand still when instructed by the marshals. Finally, always cheer the players after a good shot, whether you’re a fan or not. Heckling is extremely frowned upon in the sport of golf, so be sure to keep the atmosphere lively and upbeat throughout the tournament.
4 Spectators watch on 5 Lee Westwood
W H AT T H E P L AY E R S S AY RICHIE RAMSAY
Scotland’s Richie Ramsay made sure of his place in the 60-man field for the DP World Tour Championship with the second European Tour win of his career at the Omega European Masters in Switzerland and will come to Dubai fresh from his wedding to fiancée Angela. “I think Angela’s even more excited about it than I am. I’ve been there the last two years and it’s a great place. The golf course is always set up immaculately well, the weather’s fantastic and the guys at the Atlantis The Palm, Dubai always look after us so it’s an incredible week.” SCOT PAUL LAWRIE
Scot Paul Lawrie will return to a venue that saw him finish runner-up to eventual winner Alvaro Quiros in 2011. On this year’s form Scot, who lifted the Claret Jug as Open Champion in 1999, is certainly capable of going one better. “It’s been an unbelievable run since my second place finish in Dubai last year. To get second place in Dubai and to nearly win in a field of that quality was a huge boost to my confidence. I played really well that week. My ball striking was good and I was putting well. I’m looking forward to going back. Obviously it’s one of the last events of a long year. It’s a lovely tournament and I can’t wait to get there.” PETER HANSON
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Sweden’s Peter Hanson will also be returning to Dubai on the back of a year that saw him return to Europe’s Ryder Cup and underline his status as one of the best on the European Tour. “If I can put myself in a position towards the end of the year to maybe have a chance of reaching the top guys like Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose that would be fantastic. I’ve played the Earth course every year since it started and I’m really looking forward to putting myself in a position where I can maybe go all the way this time. The tournament is such a big thing for us. With the kind of purse we now have, everyone shows up to play and it is great fun to be part of. “
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IMAGES COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
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S PA S / E XP E R IE NCE
MALE ORDER Race enthusiasts are back in town for the Grand Prix. For rest and relaxation after the racetrack, try these tailored treatments just for men
Q During the month of November around 50,000 visitors descend on the UAE for the much-awaited 2012 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Traditionally thought of as a male-dominated sport a high percentage of the spectators at this event are expected to be men, and while the allure of trackside viewing is bound to be high on their agendas, a lot of these visitors will also be looking to experience the UAE and all it has to offer. After three days of frenetic fun, lining the chaotic and noisy grandstands of Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi a bit of rest and relaxation is definitely called for. Fortunately, here in Dubai grand prix fans can refuel at the high-end spas throughout the city. Over the next few pages Concierge has road-tested a selection of tailored treatments just for men.
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EXPE R IENCE/SPA S
Shuiqi Spa & Fitness, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Royal Shave
Set over two floors within the Royal Towers of Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Shuiqi Spa & Fitness is a tranquil oasis. The Royal Shave is more than an old-school barber session; this 45-minute treatment focuses on refreshing the face by rejuvenating the skin and promoting tissue regeneration. To begin with, the therapist will cleanse the face using white truffle oil. This helps to soften the stubble in preparation for the shave. Following the shave, a black silt mask is then applied, which helps to cool and tone the skin, thus reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines. As the mask dries, the therapist conducts an acupressure massage which focuses on stress relief and encourages deep relaxation. Where: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai & Fitness When: Daily 10am to 10pm / How much: AED310 for 45 minutes / Contact: 04 4260000
Amara Spa, Park Hyatt Dubai
Marine Active Purifying Facial If days spent by the track have left you fuming, quite literally, you might want to treat your skin to a little tender love and care. Nestled on the banks of the Dubai Creek, the Amara Spa is a true sanctuary of luxury and wellness, a world away from the rubber-burning antics of Yas Marina Circuit . Comprising eight tranquil treatment rooms and a spa menu that includes 42 treatments, guests are guaranteed to find a pampering session to suit their needs. F1 spectators should book in for the Marine
Active Purifying Facial. Designed specifically for gents, this treatment detoxifies, cleanses and restores skin. The deep-cleansing facial begins with a gentle steam extraction. Using a combination of algae and seaweed extracts, the steam removes impurities from the skin. This is followed by a lymphatic drainage massage, which encourages a visibly clearer complexion. Where: Park Hyatt Dubai When: Daily 9am to 10pm How much: AED630 for 90 minutes Contact: 04 6021234
One&Only Private Spa
Mankind
Hidden away on the edge of the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, you’ll find the Mediterranean-inspired haven that is the One&Only The Palm, Dubai. The resort’s private spa has a luxurious yet relaxed vibe and chaps can look forward to the one-hour Mankind treatment, which is a therapeutic massage focused on the back and feet. The treatment begins with a private consultation where the therapist selects essentials oils tailored to your needs. With a combination of massage techniques, including Thai, Swiss and Balinese, the massage is designed to alleviate tension and stress stored in the neck, shoulders and back – perfect for those spending long hours in rigid track-side seats. After a gentle rubdown, a foot massage using pressure points follows, leaving you feeling relaxed, refreshed and revitalised. Where: One&Only The Palm, Dubai When: Daily 10am to 9pm / How much: AED490 / Contact: 04 4401010
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Savor the flavor of our incredible meat and Seafood diSheS, amazing viewS and all you can eat and drink offerS at meat me everyday Sunday and Sea me every wedneSday at icho teppan.
AED 175 with soft Drinks AED 265 with winE AnD bEEr AED 275 with winE, bEEr AnD sAkE
Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Rd. Dubai, UAE | +971 4 308 0550 RRIC.Royaldubai@Radissonblu.com | radisson.com/royal-dubai
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Mandara Spa
Elemis Urban Cleanse Facial for Men Located at No.1 Sheikh Zayed Road – possibly the coolest address in the city – The H Hotel, Dubai is home to Mandara Spa, a Balinesethemed retreat with a strong emphasis on the ancient arts of healing. Days spent at a fume-filled racetrack can play havoc with a chap’s pallor, which is why this energising facial is a must for F1 enthusiasts. The 90-minute pampering session begins with
a gentle cleansing treatment, designed to unblock pores and exfoliate the skin, while also stimulating circulation and blood flow. This is followed by a relaxing massage, which focuses on vital points of the skin and rapidly accelerates skin repair, while also neutralising impurities. After 90 glorious minutes of being preened to perfection, your skin will look and feel dramatically clearer. Where: The H Hotel, Dubai / When: Daily 9am to 10pm How much: AED590 / Contact: 04 5018888
Spa InterContinental
Golf Ball Massage
With Dubai’s selection of world-class golf courses, it’s little wonder visitors are scrambling to tee off. But those who have not yet mastered the correct swing may find themselves in pain after 18 holes, which is why Spa InterContinental has introduced the Golf Ball Massage. While this treatment was developed with golfers in mind, it’s also the ideal choice for those who’ve spent the day jostling for space at Yas Marina Circuit as it is designed to loosen tight muscles. Combining the relaxation techniques of a classic massage with the warmth and pressure points of Shiatsu, 60 minutes of gentle kneading ensures tension is released from key muscle groups. The essential oils used in the massage are tailored to reduce and disperse stress knots. Where: InterContinental, Dubai Festival City When: Daily 8am to 10pm / How much: AED450 / Contact: 04 7011111
The Spa at The Address
Metro Facial
Unveil a whole new man with the Metro Facial, which is designed to counteract the effects of tiredness, stress and daily shaving. Taking inspiration from the traditional barber’s shave (minus the hair removal) this 60-minute treatment begins with a gentle inhalation and a tender rub down with a steaming towel. This process helps to open pores and soften dry and irritated skin. A stimulating facial massage follows, which helps to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Next, a gentle serum is applied to the skin before a final pressure points massage is performed. With a variety of facilities, we recommend you arrive an hour prior to your treatment in order to make use of the amenities. Where: The Address Dubai Marina When: Daily 10am to 10pm / How much: AED460 Contact: 04 4238888
A l s o t ry… Spa, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai
The Ila Purifying Facial for Men begins with a rosehip and honey scrub and is followed by a deeply relaxing marma massage. Designed to cleanse skin and restore radiance, this pampering session lasts for 60 minutes. Contact: 04 3438888
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Taste Flavours of the deep
In a city like Dubai, where fresh culinary talent is around every corner, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to forget the time-honoured spots. Pan-Asian eatery Teatro at Towers Rotana Dubai first opened in 2000 and continues to dazzle to this day. Wednesday evening is seafood night and guests can dine on an array of dishes including rainbow sushi (pictured). For bookings call 04 3438000.
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Stir crazy If your taste buds have been permanently altered by Dubai’s palate-pleasing restaurants, pick up a few culinary tricks of your own from one of the city’s gourmet cooking classes
Q There are few things Dubai does better than gourmet cuisine. With a rich variety of Michelin-starred chefs and an array of award-winning restaurants, visitors can look forward to a culinary journey of epic proportions. But be warned, in addition to the extra inch on your waistline, there’s a strong possibility you’ll also acquire a burning desire to get cooking. After all, there’s nothing like a spot of fine dining to stir your inner culinary genius. Fortunately, in addition to dining on gourmet cuisine, visitors to the emirate also have the opportunity to perfect the art, because a selection of the city’s top restaurants are now hosting a diverse range of cookery classes. From plating up like a pro to the secrets of sushi, this is your chance to learn from the best. Read on for our top recommendations.
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Thai Kitchen If the skills needed for Thai cookery have long escaped you, it’s time to learn the secret of this aromatic cuisine. Budding gourmets with a penchant for zesty tangs can book in for Thai cooking classes at the Thai Kitchen at the Park Hyatt Dubai. Head chef, Supattra Panyasombat, is on hand to teach small groups a number of recipes. The classes, which run from Saturday to Wednesday, take around four hours and are conducted in the restaurant kitchen. Participants can expect to learn a variety of techniques and this month’s cooking class menu includes the secrets to dishes such as spicy prawn soup, shrimp spring roll and green chicken curry. Those with a sweet tooth can look forward to learning the tricks of a selection of traditional Thai desserts, including sago with sweet melon and coconut milk. Where: Park Hyatt Dubai / When: Sat to Wed 12 to 3pm How much: From AED350 per person Contact: 04 6021234
Budding gourmets with a penchant for zesty tangs can book in for Thai cooking classes at the Thai Kitchen at the Park Hyatt Dubai. Head chef, Chef Supattra, is on hand to teach small groups a number of recipes
table9 by nick and scott Back in 2004, when they first worked together at Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin-starred restaurant Claridges, Nick Alvis and Scott Price vowed that one day they’d open their own place and do things their way. That dream became a reality in 2011 when table9 by nick and scott launched and since then the rising culinary stars have continued to dominate the UAE dining scene. Visitors and residents alike now have the chance to learn advanced kitchen techniques and recipes directly from the masters, as Nick and Scott regularly host cooking classes. For the chicken class, visitors are presented with a whole corn-fed bird and are taught how to use every part to create delicious dishes. One chicken is crafted into a mouth-watering curry, clear stock, pan-fried chicken breasts and – the pièce de résistance – a velouté sauce to die for, before being plated up in restaurant-style perfection. Under the watchful eye of the chefs everyone is able to find their inner culinary talent. Choose too from crash courses in fish, chicken, bread and chocolate preparation. Whichever class you attend you’ll pick up some of the tricks of the trade, sample plenty of food and take the recipes home with you. Where: Hilton Dubai Creek / When: Wed and Fri 9.30am to 1pm How much: AED495 per person / Contact: 04 2127551
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Nobu When Atlantis The Palm, Dubai opened its doors in 2008, it signalled the arrival of world-renowned Japanese restaurant Nobu. Having redefined the local culinary scene with the introduction of famed chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature dishes, this iconic eatery is now offering diners the opportunity to refine their culinary skills (and palates) by hosting a bespoke cooking class for would-be gourmands. Led by chef de cuisine, Hervé Courtot, foodies and amateurs alike can experience first-hand the art of Japanese cuisine at the classes, which are held on the first Saturday of each month and last for three hours. The session begins at the sushi bar where, under the watchful eye of the Nobu chefs, guests discover the exquisite art of sushi making. This is followed by a demonstration in how to make black cod, hands down, Nobu’s most famous dish. No meal being complete without a decadent desert, the lesson concludes with a demonstration of the popular signature cheesecake, which is lovingly prepared with baked cream cheeses and sour cream with vanilla. After a challenging session in the kitchen, nothing finishes this experience off better than a relaxing three-course meal, where guests have the opporunity to dine on the dishes featured, all served with glasses of bubbly and sake. Where: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai When: First Saturday of each month How much: AED1,250 per person / Contact: 04 4260000
Vu’s Dubai is famous for its award-winning gourmet restaurants so if you’ve overindulged during your stay, you may be hankering after some tips on how to kick start a healthy diet. For this, turn your attentions to Vu’s at Madinat Jumeirah. Chef de cuisine, Gabriele Kurtz, who is in charge of the resort’s healthy dining alternatives hosts cooking classes twice a month. During November her sessions include Weight Loss: light and gorgeous winter dishes, and Shape: everyday favourites for family and friends. The cooking classes are designed to teach participants the art of easy-to-prepare dishes, which are not only healthy but delicious. Using the freshest organic and plant-based ingredients, many of which are grown in the restaurant’s garden, Chef Gabriele is on hand throughout the two-and-a-half hour sessions to offer advice and insight on everything from where to source fresh produce and how to cook it gourmet style. Where: Madinat Jumeirah When: Sat, November 10 and Sat, November 24 How much: From AED295 / Contact: 04 3666763
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Haute off the plate A slick mix of fashion and gourmet is the order of the day in Dubai’s trendy eateries
Q There are fashion labels and there are restaurants, but as high-end designers like Roberto Cavalli and Giorgio Armani know, the two aren’t mutually exclusive. Like Pierre Cardin and Donatella Versace who have established their hospitality presence in Paris and Sydney respectively, Cavalli and Armani, along with labels like Alfred Dunhill, have brought a splash of style to the Dubai restaurant scene and, just like the clothing lines, the menus are going down a treat. “Dubai is the epitome of high fashion,” says David Lescarret, general manager of Cavalli Club. “For this reason, designer restaurants are the perfect fit for the city.” It’s no exaggeration. With the world’s biggest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall, which is home to Fashion Avenue (a seemingly endless indoor boulevard of designer stores), plus a variety of well-respected design academies and its very own Fashion Week, Dubai is a city that is ripe for a culinary makeover of this kind. Concierge chats to the fashion-forward foodies leading the trend.
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1 Cavalli Club (previous page) 2 Armani/Peck 3 Armani/Ristorante
The first to reach Dubai was of course Cavalli Club, which swung open its zebraprint doors in 2009. Located at Fairmont Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road and owned by fashion favourite Roberto Cavalli, this club took its inspiration from the flamboyant artisan’s animal-print-adorned creations. Gilt-edged, gold-leafed, zebraprinted lavishness is what you get as soon as you walk through the doors and that’s exactly the intention. “This project was very close to Roberto Cavalli’s heart and it’s only natural that it reflects his style, flare and opulence,” explains Lescarret. “His team in Milan played a pivotal role in the design and architecture of the venue and Roberto was very active in selecting many of the features displayed, including the funky zebra-print chairs and the suspended crystal chandeliers.” The extravagance doesn’t stop with the décor because the multi-faceted venue boasts a contemporary Italian restaurant, sushi
bar, wine and Champagne bar, together with a trendy cocktail bar and a sophisticated cigar lounge. However, while Cavalli Club remains one of the city’s hippest haunts, it now has a variety of rivals for the first place in fashion dining. Fellow Italian Giorgio Armani laid down the gauntlet in 2011 with his first foray into the world of hospitality, when he opened the Armani Hotel Dubai. The hotel boasts five food and beverage outlets – two Italian eateries (Armani/Ristorante and Armani/Peck) are pitched alongside Japanese haunt Armani/ Hashi, Indian restaurant Armani/Amal, Mediterranean-themed diner Armani Mediterraneo and lounge Armani/Privé.
New in town Last March British brand Alfred Dunhill launched its first restaurant in the region, A lf ie’s, giving Dubai’s already chic dining scene added kudos. Located at
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Condé Nast Restaurants recently announced that Dubai will soon be home to Vogue Café, which will be situated at The Dubai Mall
4&5 Alfie’s
5
the Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Tower, the restaurant is the brand’s third Alfie’s address after Shanghai and Hong Kong. Likewise it’s not just the big names in fashion that have succumbed to the synergy of fashion and food because Condé Nast Restaurants recently announced that Dubai will soon be home to Vogue Café, which will be situated at The Dubai Mall. Similarly, many restaurants throughout the emirate are looking to the season trends for inspiration with their culinary offerings, with Raffles Dubai emerging as a front runner. Since 2010 the luxury hotel’s Fashion Afternoon Tea has taken its cue from the runways of Paris, Milan, New York and London. “The concept is to enjoy delectable savouries and sweets inspired by designer collections straight off the runway,” explains Roland Eitzinger, pastry chef at Raffles Dubai. “The colour, style and garnishings are led by the fashion trends of each season.” So as the world of fashionable food flourishes, the emirate patiently waits for new arrivals. One thing is for sure though, whether it be Prada or Pucci, Stella Luna or Stella McCartney, whoever’s next to bring trendy tastes to the city will have their work cut out because the competition, like the catwalk creations, is hot to trot.
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catch of the day For an authentic experience a world away from the city’s opulent gourmet restaurants, head to the fish market in Deira
Q When you’re visiting a city that boasts the world’s tallest tower, biggest shopping mall and largest dancing fountain, the idea of factoring in a trip to the local fish market might seem a little out of sync. However, with a coastline that stretches some 600 kilometres, fishing has long been a prosperous business in the UAE and for much of the 19 th and 20 th centuries it was (along with pearl diving) the mainstay of the country’s economy. Similarly, before the rise of the city’s thriving restaurant scene local families were known to have subsisted on a diet that relied on freshly caught fish. Today the government works hard to
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preserve the economic livelihood of the remaining fish communities and as a consequence the city’s fish market has become something of an attraction for food connoisseurs keen to experience the more rustic side of the city. Located near Deira’s peaceful Corniche, near Al Shindagha Tunnel and open seven days a week from 7.30am, this lively marketplace is abuzz with fish traders who sell their fresh catch. Within the market there are hundreds of vendors selling thousands of species of fish, including black pomfret, squid, mackerel and red mullet. As soon as you get near, your senses are assaulted with the sounds, colours and, of course, smells of every type of sea creature (exotic or otherwise) imaginable. While entry is free, those visiting for the first time should make sure they have small change (around AED5) to hand, because as soon as you step out of your taxi, you’ll find yourself surrounded by ‘wheelbarrow men’. The job of these gentlemen is to follow customers through the market, and as they choose each item, it is packed into the wheelbarrow, ready to be weighed. Payment for the fish is made at the end. A tip: even if you’re just keen to look around and don’t intend to buy anything, it’s a good idea to agree a price with one of the gentlemen as this will ensure that the others will leave you alone to peruse. There are a few things to be aware of before visiting the fish market. While there is an airconditioning system in place, it is often switched
Within the market there are hundreds of vendors selling thousands of species of fish, including black pomfret, squid, mackerel and red mullet
off as the constant flow of air dries out the fish. Therefore, it goes without saying that the aroma is not for the faint-hearted. Be prepared to sniff every type of fish odour you can think of. Likewise, squeamish shoppers should prepare themselves for some scary sights, including dead sharks and eels – the bigger varieties are often hung on display. Awash with nostalgia, the market opened in August 1988 as a temporary selling spot for local fishermen. Since then it has prospered and now also boasts areas for fruit and vegetables, rice and meat. Almost certainly as far removed as you can get from ‘new Dubai’, the fish market is marvelously juxtaposed against the emirate’s prominent skyline, which can be seen across the Creek. For this reason it has become a popular spot for those looking for a little reminder of what the city was like in days gone by.
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the guide
shop / discover / experience / taste
malls / souks / markets / art galleries city tours / culture / museums adventure / family activities / sports hotel outlets and promotions / city dining
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SHOP From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shoppers' dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets
MALLS
THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE
04 3900091
Though not a mall, this picturesque 1.7km-long beachside shopping promenade, is home to nearly 200 retailers including Boots, Boutique One, Zadig et Voltaire and Aiyanna of London. The views are also stunning.
Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL
04 4361000
Spread over four levels, the mall is home to 160 stores dedicated to fashion, jewellery and home furnishings with waterfront dining and a children’s area.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to
10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1
IBN BATTUTA MALL
04 3621900
Inspired by the Arab traveller Ibn Battuta, the mall is home to designer shops, Woolworths and a multi-screen cinema complex.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to 1am Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10.30pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm. Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D1
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri noon to 10pm
04 5154000
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
4
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 6 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.
1
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.
3
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 THE VILLAGE
04 3494444
A selection of boutiques such as s*uce and Candella, a high-end bridal store, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 5 to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1 TIMES SQUARE
04 3418020
A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2
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WAFI
04 3244555
This Egyptian-themed shopping haven has over 200 designer stores with 1,000 fashion brands including Miss Sixty, Chanel and Escada.
Shoppers’ survival guide
The newest addition to Dubai’s shopping scene, this largely residential mall is home to 350 brands including Zara, Massimo Dutti and Pull & Bear.
SAHARA CENTRE
06 5316611
Dubai Festival City/Deira
Located in Sharjah, the mall is best for lifestyle shopping with sporting goods, toys, cosmetics, jewellery and home furnishings from leading retailers.
Timings: Sun to Tue 10am to 10pm. Wed to Sat 10am to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya
AL GHURAIR CITY
04 2225222
With 200 retail outlets, Dubai’s first mall offers a great range of value fabrics, alongside high-street favourites.
5
800 6422
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
1
MIRDIF CITY CENTRE
Souks
Timings: Sat to Wed10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 ARABIAN CENTRE
04 2845555
Home to more than 200 fashion, perfume, homefurnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.
ARTS & CRAFT SOUK
04 3418020
Timings: Sun to Wed
Located in Times Square shopping mall, this small market sells handcrafted jewellery, accessories and contemporary UAE art.
10am to 10.30pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3
Timings: Noon to 7pm every second Friday of the month Metro: First Gulf Bank Map reference: C2
DEIRA CITY CENTRE
04 2954486
Great for bargains, this popular mall features well-known brands such as Debenhams, Benetton, Shoemart and Next.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Deira City Centre Map reference: E2 DRAGONMART
04 4285665
Built in the shape of a dragon, this 1.2km mall is one of the largest trading hubs for Chinese products outside China.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu 10am to 11pm. Fri 2pm to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: E3 DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
04 2325444
Covering 204,000 sq m, this retail resort is home to 550 shops including Marks & Spencer. There is also a Community Arts Market.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Metro: Emirates Map reference: E2 DUBAI OUTLET MALL
04 4234666
A bargain hunter’s dream, covering 93,000 sq m of discount shopping 20 minutes out of town on the Dubai – Al Ain highway.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3 6
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Some of Dubai’s malls are very big. To save time, pick up a map at the entrance so you can find the stores you want to visit quickly. In most malls similar outlets are grouped together. For a quiet and leisurely shopping experience, visit Dubai’s malls throughout the week to avoid the weekend crowds. When shopping in the traditional souks, be prepared to haggle. Vendors expect it. Before buying gold or visiting the Gold Souk, find out the current market price of gold from your hotel concierge to ensure that you do not pay over the odds. Some malls specialise in particular kinds of shopping, for example, home furnishings, luxury labels or high-street brands. Decide what you want from your shopping trip and pick the right mall for you.
Gold Souk Comprising more than 300 retailers, this traditional souk is one of Dubai’s oldest trading areas and one of its biggest attractions.
Timings: Daily 7am to noon
and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square
Map reference: E1
Sold on
Gold
Dubai has long been associated with gold. The largest gold trading centre in the Middle East, the story began over a century ago when the emirate opened a modest marketplace by Dubai Creek. Following these humble beginnings, the souk grew to become one of the largest in the world. Today the souk has been modernised and while the haphazard shacks and oil lamps of yesteryear have been replaced by shiny shop faces and neon lights, this historic spot is still a tantalising introduction to the Arabian world.
Spice Souk Brimming with sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the spice souk is a feast for the senses.
Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 Textile Souk Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.
Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1
Markets
KHAN MURJAN
04 3244555
Modelled on an ancient 14th century souk Khan Murjan has more than 150 stalls offering traditional arts and crafts.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 SOUK AL BAHAR
04 3627011
Browse more than 100 boutiques before admiring views of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and The Dubai Fountain.
COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET
800 33232
Open every first Friday of the month, this market held in Dubai Festival City, brings together artists and craftsmen. This is the place to shop for works of art.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2
Timings: Fri 10am to 8pm Map reference: E2
SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
050 4250543
04 3668888
Featuring 75 boutique shops and craft stalls set in a bazaar environment overlooking the scenic waterways of the adjacent hotel complex.
Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1
COvent garden market dubai
Artisans from across the emirate congregate at this market, located in The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, to sell their wares
Timings: Wed and Thu 5pm to midnight. Fri and Sat 10am to 9pm Map reference: A1
label stable 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)
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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
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 2pm to 9pm Map reference: D1
GALLERY etemad
the Art source
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
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
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
Closed Fri
the pavilion downtown dubai
04 4477025
Founded by the former head of sales of Christie’s Middle East and the former MD of Art Dubai, the gallery showcases works by regional artists.
to midnight
Timings: Sun to Thu
04 3411367
04 3536233
Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Map reference: A1
the mojo gallery
04 3477388
GREEN ART GALLERY
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.
Timings: Sat to Wed 8am to 6pm. Thu 8am to 2pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D2
The oldest gallery in Dubai, the Green Art Gallery showcases contemporary art with a focus on regional work.
10am to 6pm, Sat 11am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY
Located in The Dubai Mall, this small art gallery and framing shop displays thoughtprovoking works by a range of Middle Eastern artists.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm; Closed Fri Map reference: C2 04 3469305
MAJLIS GALLERY
This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am
to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1
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
Founded in 2003, this Arabic gallery is located off Mankhool Road in Bur Dubai.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1
04 3470209
meem gallery
One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat. Map reference: B2
traffic
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 XVA GALLERY
04 3585117
04 3230909
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm; Sat noon to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1
With operations all over the world, the gallery showcases the work of great masters as well as new talent.
Art buffs with love this ultramodern gallery, where modern art is on show in a 2,500 sq ft gallery in Gate Village in DIFC. Current exhibitions include work by Yazid Oulab and Sami Al Karim
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Sat 12 to 11pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1
Timings: Sun to Thu 11am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: E1
An area of 4,000 sq m dedicated to international contemporary art in the heart of Gate Village, DIFC.
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Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.
04 4250400
OPERA GALLERY
5
Map reference: D2
marsam mattar
04 3477883
3
Timings: Daily 10am
Spanning two floors and 10,000 sq m, Total Art specialises in artists and art influenced by the culture of the Middle East.
04 3988331
1. Falcon Aviation 2. Dhow restaurant 3. Dubai Fountain 4. Spice souk 5. Bastakiya wind tower 6. Dubai Creek
04 2856972
Mojo focuses on contemporary exhibitions of original paintings, conceptual photography, digital media prints, illustrations, video art, installation pieces and sculptures.
Representing some of the Arab world’s leading and emerging artists, Ayyam promotes contemporary Middle Eastern art.
04 4257888
04 3450900
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dis c o ver/the guide
City tours
CREEK CRUISES
04 3939860
Choose four-star cuisine with lively entertainment, or a more tranquil option with five-star catering by the Taj Palace Hotel.
Camel facts
culture
Timings: 7.30pm to 10pm Guide price: From AED175 CREEKSIDE LEISURE
Air ALPHA TOURS
04 2949888
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter. City shuttle services from your hotel are available.
Timings: Flights depart from 10am to 4pm Guide price: City tour AED1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hour-long tours AED3,060 per person FALCON AVIATION SERVICES
02 4448866
This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.
Timings: Flights depart from
9am to 5pm daily (except Tue) Guide price: Prices start from AED800 (20 minutes), AED3,350 for up to six people SEAWINGS
04 8070708
04 3368406
Hire a dhow with dinner and transfers, plus butler service and enjoy unlimited beverages.
Timings: Daily boarding 8.30pm Guide price: AED200 dinner cruise
Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charters are available.
Timings: Daily 8 to 10pm and 10.30pm to 12.30am. Boarding at 8pm Guide price: AED160 Map reference: E2 AL MANSOUR DHOW
04 2057033
This five-star dhow from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers international cuisine, alcoholic beverages and live entertainment.
Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED185 ART MARINE
04 3388955
Cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and Dubai Creek with Art Marine chartered yachts.
Timings: From 7am into the night Guide price: From AED750 per hour
MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 for an evening dhow cruise
04 3666546
This 442-seat luxury venue hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film.
WONDERBUS
04 3595656
This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up Dubai Creek for an hour-long cruise.
Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING
Guide price: AED145 adults; AED95 children (3-11 years); AED450 family (two adults and two children)
04 3536666
Traditional Arabian dhows take guests on cruises each evening, with a banquet of food included in the price.
Map reference: B2
Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm.
Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 per person (40 minutes)
04 3243000
Located at Mall of the Emirates, this centre brings together a wide variety of performing and visual arts including drama, dance, opera, comedy and children’s shows.
04 3511117
Land
AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE
04 3414777
DANAT DUBAI CRUISES
Fly from Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in the south west or Dubai Creek in the north east and explore the city from up high.
Water
DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)
JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves when visiting the mosque.
Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and Thu for one hour from 10am Guide price: AED10 Map reference: D1 al farooq omar bin al khattab mosque
04 3944448
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Umm Suqeim is one of only a few mosques in the city open to non-Muslims. Tours run three times a week. Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am. Closed Fri Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: C1 THE BIG BUS COMPANY
04 3407709
If your stay in the emirate is short, you might not have time to take in the sights under your own steam. For an organised tour, why not hop aboard a 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)
04 3536666
Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE.
Contrary to popular belief, a camel does not store water in its hump. It is in fact a mound of fatty tissue from which the animal draws energy when food is scarce. A camel can last five to seven days with little or no food and water and can lose a quarter of its body weight without impairing its physical abilities. Although camels can withstand severe dehydration, a large animal can drink as much as 100 litres (21 gallons) in 10 minutes. Such an amount would kill another mammal, but the camel’s unique metabolism enables it to store the water in its bloodstream. Camel’s milk is much more nutritious than cow’s milk. It is lower in fat and lactose and higher in potassium, iron and vitamin C. Drunk fresh, the warm frothy liquid is heavy and sweet. The Bedouin name for the one-hump dromedary or Arabian camel is ‘Ata Allah’ which translates to ‘God’s gift’.
Timings: Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide price: Breakfast AED60, lunch AED70. Reservations essential Map reference: E1
Museums
History in the making The earliest known habitation in this part of the world dates back as far as 5500 BCE. However, it was in 1971, when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi's ruler from 1966 to 2004, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990, set the wheels in motion with their neighbouring sheikhdoms, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ajman (Ras Al Khaimah joined in 1972) to form an alliance. Prior to this, the seven emirates had lived in relative harmony, united through a protectorate treaty with Great Britain, which earned them the name the Trucial States. It was a successful partnership, but in 1968 the United Kingdom ended the treaty. In order to maintain security, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid reached out to their neighbours and in 1971 they signed an agreement, which signified the creation of the United Arab Emirates.
DUBAI MUSEUM
04 3531862
Dubai’s most comprehensive museum features a rich collection of aerial photographs of 'old' Dubai, an assortment of multimedia exhibits and a wide variety of artefacts. This museum, located inside the impressive Al Fahidi Fort, provides visitors with an in-depth history of the emirate.
Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) Map reference: E1 AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE
04 2260286
Learn about the education system of yesteryear at Al Ahmadiya School & Heritage House. Located in Deira in the north east, visit Dubai’s first school and traditional house, which is home to fascinating life-size dioramas.
Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 7.30pm, Friday 2.30 to 7.30pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM
04 2253312
Located next to the spice souk, the museum contains rare manuscripts of royal and administrative decrees and photographs and provide a glimpse of times gone by. This is definitely one for culture vultures and history buffs to try out.
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1
HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE
04 3937151
This museum, where Emiratis prepare local food and perform dances to Arabic music, provides a glimpse of a bygone era, when pearl trading and fishing were the emirate's main source of revenue.
Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF
04 3946343
A peaceful majlis with antique interior ornaments in Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s former summer residence.
Timings: Daily 8.30am to 1.30pm and 3.30 to 8.30pm. Fri 3.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1
THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM
04 3937139
Wander around this restored house and see fascinating paraphernalia including old photographs and currency of Dubai.
Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 9pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED2 adults, AED1 children (under eight years free) Map reference: E1
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 AED2,400 per boat ART MARINE
04 3388955
Set sail from Jumeirah Beach Hotel and cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Creek.
Timings: From 7am Guide price: From
AED750 per hour
BATEAUX DUBAI
04 3994994
Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner.
Timings: Daily boarding
at 7.45pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11pm Guide price: AED350 CLUB MINA
04 3993333
As well as fishing trips, Club Mina offers all kinds of exciting or relaxing cruising options.
Timings: From 6am to 6pm Guide price: From AED3,500 DANAT DUBAI CRUISES
04 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
per person
SUMMERTIME MARINE
Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175
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
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
Journey to a Bedouin campsite, ride a camel, smoke shisha together with a range of other desert-based activities. NET TOURS DUBAI Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping.
04 2629993/050 7548466
OFF ROAD ADVENTURES
050 6289667
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. ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS
04 2999339
04 3366643
Flying
at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises
Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices
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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TRAVCO
Hop aboard the Arabian dhow for a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise.
Timings: Dinner cruise
2
Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite.
Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.
04 3572200
3
04 2666655
VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT
Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding.
050 5517406
04 3357676
Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24
Take a four-hour catamaran cruise along Dubai’s coastline and enjoy a barbecue lunch as well as snorkelling.
EL MUNDO
LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES
Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.
ARABIAN ADVENTURES
Timings: Every Saturday 8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275
Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available.
OASIS PALM TOURISM
See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.
DREAMDAYS
800 2080
04 2340812
04 2573084
04 3511117
A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters.
EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI
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 AED4,840 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
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__CONCIERGE DUBAI - Nov 2012.indd 13
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Pyramid Building Near Burjuman Center • 04-396 8282 / Jumeirah Beach Hotel Mezzanine Level • 04-348 6878 Souk Madinat Jumeirah Opp. Theatre Box Office • 04-368 6192 / The Dubai Mall Arabian Court – LG – 16 • 04-339 8484 Jumeirah Road Opp. Pizza Hut • 04-394 4844 / Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) “C” Goldcrest Executive Near Al Mas Tower & Bonnington Hotel • 04-443 8766 | F R E E T R A N S P O R T AVA I L A B L E F O R V I S I T O R S |
__CONCIERGE DUBAI - Nov 2012.indd 54
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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: AED1,375 per
PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND
SEAWINGS
04 8832999
person for 40 minutes
04 3244755/050 6514583
Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.
Go head to head with paintballing opponents in the heart of Dubai city at the Wonderland entertainment complex.
Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED80 for two
ULTIMATE CHARTER
04 3464194
BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES
hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings
Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise.
SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB
04 2854949
Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12
Karting (see Sports)
Shooting
06 5487777
Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semiautomatic paintball guns and the latest antifog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours on weekdays (AED90 Thu to Sat), includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls
Skydiving iFLYDUBAI
04 2316292
Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre in Dubai Festival City.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED195. Children AED145 SKYDIVE DUBAI
050 1533222
Based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, this centre offers tandem skydiving for thrillseeking tourists.
Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO
Little Explorers
The Mane Attraction
04 4485200
Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child
Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for
800 LEISURE (5347873)
MAGIC PLANET
A fun and interactive family-focused amusement centre in Deira City Centre and Mall of the Emirates.
non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED625 for certified divers
Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free
Family activities
PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY
04 4297949
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED100, children (4 to 12 years) AED75. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400 DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW
04 3244555
A brilliant light and sound show featuring Egyptianthemed graphics and a storyline depicting The Return of the Pharaohs.
Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI
02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Terrifying teeth Come face to face with the world’s ultimate predator at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The nailbiting shark dives feature more than 33,000 aquatic animals including sand tiger sharks, reef sharks, giant groupers and stingrays, making the underwater adventure an experience not to be missed. Plane sailing Get a birds-eye view of the city as you take off from and land on water in a thrilling seaplane safari. Marvel at awe-inspiring landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and The World islands. Gun games From trap and double trap to clay and skeet, try your hand at a number of fun-packed, sharp shooting activities. Head to the Jebel Ali Shooting Club and there’s also a 5,000 square metre archery range. Flying colours Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and watch the sun rise over the desert. This calm and serene experience is a wonderful way to see the emirate away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED30 per hour
BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP) Admire unparalleled views of Dubai in this spectacular tour through the tallest building in the world.
Check out these top action-packed activities and experience Dubai at its best…
Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to seven-yearolds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.
Amusements & attractions 800 28843867
ACTION ADVENTURE
Features games, tasks and facilities to test children's limits, help them discover hidden talents and develop skills.
Swim among 33,000 aquatic animals including sharks, giant groupers and stingrays in The Dubai Mall’s 10-million-litre tank.
Timings: From 2pm to
dusk Sun to Thu. From 11am to dusk Fri and Sat. Guide price: Adults AED1,750. Cash only
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Ride rollercoasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62m into the air.
Timings: Tue to Sun 11am to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA
04 4485222
A 'mini city' in which kids can role play over 80 adult professions including pilots, doctors and firefighters.
Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to
9pm,Thu 9am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to11pm Guide price: AED 95 for children aged two to three, AED140 for four to 16-year-olds.
SEGA REPUBLIC
Do a stable tour Get up close and personal with award-winning prize thoroughbreds at Meydan Racecourse. The tour includes a trackside breakfast at Farriers at The Meydan followed by a snoop around the stables. Expect to see the horses work out on treadmills and in swimming pools Go desert hacking If tearing over the dunes in a turbo-charged 4x4 puts you on edge, a more sedate way to experience the dert is on horse back at the Emirates Equestrian Centre. Take a moonlit ride On the 29th of November Mushrif Equestrian & Polo Club is holding a moonlit ride in the desert. Saddle as the sun goes down for an extraordinary experience. Learn to play polo Experience the sport of kings, queens and maharajas at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club beside Arabian Ranches. Group and private lessons are available and for those who don't wish to stick and ball, pack a picnic.
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 1 to 1.30pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm. Friday 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND
04 3243222
Creekside family entertainment village is a great day out for the entire family.
Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 6pm, theme park 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED105 adults, AED95 children
Arts & crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE
04 3447331/04 3410144
Create your own piece of pottery art at Café Ceramic.
Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm to midnight Guide price: ceramic prices vary from AED45 to AED200
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JAM JAR
04 3417303
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.
7
Timings: Sun to Thu 1 to 9pm, Fri and Sat noon to 9pm Guide price: AED175 for adults; AED150 children
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am
to 8.30pm, Fri 3 to pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket ENCOUNTER ZONE
04 3247747
Wafi’s adventure playground for kids. Look out for 'Lunarland', 'Galatica' and the skate park.
Timings: Sat to Wed
10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED35 for two hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass
6. Aquaventure 7. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai 8. Wild Wadi 9. Emirates Golf Club
04 4260000
AQUA PLAY
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Aimed at children from the age of two to eight, Dubai's latest waterpark is both fun and educational.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to
10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Friday 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE
04 4260000
Ride the rapid and shoot down the fastest free-fall slide in the Middle East into a shark-filled lagoon. Located at the Atlantis, The Palm.
(see Sports)
DREAMLAND AQUA PARK
06 7681888
04 4261030
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For the ultimate aquatic experience that you'll never forget, meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. This is one of Dubai's most famous attractions.
Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual
rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB NOV12.indd 120
Golf
Discover a maze of underwater halls and tunnels, with 65,000 marine animals swimming at the Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis, The Palm.
Ice skating
DOLPHIN BAY
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED220 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free
THE LOST CHAMBERS
Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED225 for adults, AED180 for children under 1.2 metres
Marine adventures
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.
Timings: Shows Mon to Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children
Waterparks
Perfect for families and only an hour’s drive from Dubai, this large fun-filled park has a number of entertaining rides.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am
to 6pm. Fri, Sat and public holidays the park is open for families only from 10am to 8pm (no all-male groups) Guide price: AED135 adults; AED85 children ICELAND WATER PARK
800 WOWRAK (969725)
A sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert.
Timings: Sun to Wed and Fri 10am to 6pm. Thu and Sat 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m AED150. Below 1.2m AED100
Splashland is a fun family water park near the Dubai Creek featuring slides, twisters, a lazy river, water cannons and children’s activity pool.
04 3484444
Learn more about dolphins, seals and other marine life at this fully air-conditioned dolphinarium.
CHILDREN’S CITY
04 3241222/04 3243222
WILD WADI
04 3369773
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
SPLASHLAND
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED105 adults; AED95 children
DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM
Edutainment An interactive science and cultural centre.
Cool it
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
adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight
04 3340808
8
04 4485200
AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
Dubai Ice Rink Whether you’re practicing pirouettes or learning a basic glide, the Olympic-sized ice rink at The Dubai Mall provides a chilledout way to pass a hot summer afternoon. Tots, tweens and teens are all welcome at this fun filled ice park. Location: The Dubai Mall Contact: 04 448511 Ski Dubai The first indoor ski slope in the region caters for all ages and abilities, with green, blue, red and black runs, as well as a variety of jumps and raps. If that sounds too hardcore, head to the Snow Park, or get up close and personal with gentoo and king penguins, in the resort’s unique penguin enclosure. Location: Mall of the Emirates Contact: 04 4094000 Chillout For the ultimate icy experience book a table at Chillout, a bar entirely carved from ice. All the necessary clothing is provided, including thermal coats, gloves and shoes and then you’re free to enjoy dinner and mocktails in this effortlessly cool haunt. Location: Times Square Contact: 800 CHILLOUT (24455688)
04 6010111
(7,303 yards, par-72) This championship course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED875 for 18 holes ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB
04 3663000
(6,531 yards, par-72) This is a popular course with both visitors and locals, designed by Ian Baker-Finch.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED555, Fri and Sat AED660 for 18 holes DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB
04 2956000
(6,800 yards, par-71) The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes and the Creek on at least four holes.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED695 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes 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
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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)
11
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
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Sports
04 3065061
Timings: Sat to Thu 2 to 10pm. Closed Fri Guide price: AED90 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.
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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
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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.
Enjoy the natural desert surrounding in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.
Timings: Tue to Sun 7am
to noon and 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED150 for a 30-minute lesson, AED200 for a one-hour outdoor ride (experienced riders only)
Timings: See website
for availability Guide price: AED600 FORMULA ONE
02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
AL NASR LEISURELAND
Experience the thrill of Formula One, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater.
04 3371234
Cool off and burn a few calories skating around the Olympic-sized ice rink or try your hand at 10-pin bowling.
Timings: See website
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two
DUBAI ICE RINK
04 8836000
Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by world champion Rod 'Hot Rod' Fuller at the Yas Drag Racing Centre.
Ice skating
A British Horse Societyapproved riding and training centre for all abilities. Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing.
JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA
800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
riding from AED200
hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire
Timings: Lessons from 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson
DRAG RACING
Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert
EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
050 5537986/ 050 5587656
Motorsports
THE DESERT RANCH
for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience
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
Swing into action This month top golfers from around the world will meet in Dubai for the DP World Tour Championship. A renowned golfing event, this tournament is the climax of the Race to Dubai and the finale of a season that has seen 46 nail-biting tournaments take place. Don’t miss your opportunity to watch the best of the best as they go toe-totoe on the greens of Jumeirah Golf Estates. The three-day event takes place from X to X and is the richest contest in the region with a total prize purse of $8 million.
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.
30 minutes
Mini golf 04 8523221
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB NOV12.indd 124
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.
Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
124
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 50 to 188ft.
Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details
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
15
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
Guide price: AED300 per person including transport
Hotels can organise watersports on request. Some have their own facilities. See Taste section for hotel telephone numbers
Guide price:
Banana rides AED150 for 20 minutes Parasailing AED250 per ride Waterskiing AED150 for 20 minutes Wakeboarding AED150 for 20 minutes Windsurfing AED170 per hour
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1
2
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
Armani Hotel Dubai 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 Dubai's favourite sports bar, Nezesaussi Grill, is now hosting 'Nezesaussi Brekky for lunch' any day of the week from midday to 4pm for only AED65. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi – Sports bar
Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai
04 3211111
Downtown Dubai Head to Pergolas every Tuesday for seafood night. Indulge in mouthwatering delicacies for only AED270. 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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04 8883888
Downtown Dubai Learn all you've ever wanted to know about truffles at Armani/ Ristornate. On November 9, from 10am to 2pm, Chef Alessandro will introduce a signature selection of dishes to the menu and for AED1,000 per couple, inclusive of a three-course lunch paired with beverages, guests can look on as he works his magic. 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. Hanabi – Japanese Jade – Chinese Lamesa – Filipino Seaworld – Seafood Yuraku – Japanese
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
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
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
1. Benihana, Al Bustan Rotana 2. table9 by nick and scott, Hilton Dubai Creek 3. Pai Thai Al Qasr 4. Pierchic, Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah
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
Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community
04 8852222
Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar
3
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
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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 1 to 4pm. Prices start at AED249 for all you can eat. 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 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
04 2271111 Deira
Check out table9 by nick and scott and enjoy a wide selection of European dishes.
Grand Hyatt Dubai
Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 by nick and scott – European
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
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
Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International
04 3171234
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.
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
hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates
04 3772000
Sheikh Zayed Road Mad for Brunch is the latest promotion at Sanabel. Guests can tuck into a variety of cuisines from different food stations. Running every Friday prices start at AED190 per person. Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar
hyatt regency dubai
04 2091234 Deira
Head to The Kitchen every Thursday from 12.30 to 3pm for flavourful 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.
5. Eauzone 6. The Ivy, Jumeirah Emirates Towers 7. Reflets, InterContinental Dubai Festival City 8. Zuma, Dubai International Financial Centre
Alfie's – English Al Nafoorah – Arabic Clique – Bar ET Sushi – Japanese Hakkasan – Chinese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy Dubai – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s Bar – Champagne bar Vu's Restaurant – International
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
04 4530000
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.
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Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese
Jumeira Rotana Hotel
04 3455888 Satwa
From 6 to 8pm daily enjoy selected beverages for as little as AED22 at Brauhaus' happy hour. 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.
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own it.
the world’s most iconic shirt. soul-satisfying eats. and you.
dubai ®
dubai festival city
+971-4-232-8900 • hardrock.com/dubai
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__CONCIERGE DUBAI - Nov 2012.indd 9
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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
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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 Sample dishes from Indonesia, Thailand, China, Vietnam and India at Dunes Café. Running from 11.30am until 4pm every friday, brunch is priced at AED330 per person and includes a selection of Asian house beverages. Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese
Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
04 2281111 Deira
This time-honoured spot has become a firm favourite with returning visitors who wish to experience a touch of 'old' Dubai. Head to Creekside, which is well known for its (yup, you've guessed it), Creekside views, for a tasty seafood buffet. A rich assortment of local fish prepared in a variety of ways is available for AED175 per person.
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Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian
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
Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.
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T A ST E/THE GUIDE
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
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
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.
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Taj Palace Hotel
The Palace – The Old Town
04 2232222 Deira
04 4287888
Downtown Dubai
Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali accompanied by live music.
For a relaxing night spot you can't go wrong at FAI, which serves a variety of cocktails, premium wines and Champagnes.
Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic Verdi – Italian
Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai
The Address Downtown Dubai
04 4368888
Downtown Dubai
The Ritz-Carlton Dubai
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
The Address Dubai Mall
City dining
04 3994000
Dubai Marina For afternoon tea, book a table at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, prices start at AED125 per person.
9&10. Atmosphere Dubai 11. Rivington Grill, Souk Al Bahar 12. Hukama, The Address Downtown Dubai
Amaseena – Arabic Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian
04 4388888
Downtown Dubai
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Every Tuesday from 7 to 11pm diners can enjoy a five-course tasting menu at Ember Grill and Lounge for AED295 per person.
the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre
04 3722222 DIFC
Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Barbecue Night. Prices start at AED240 per person and diners can look forward to a variety of live-cooking stations.
Cabana – Lounge Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic
Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar
The Address Dubai Marina
04 4238888
Dubai Marina
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
The grand tradition of afternoon tea has arrived at Kambaa. Every Friday and Saturday from 3 to 6pm guests can enjoy a chocolate buffet afternoon tea priced at AED110 per person.
04 3994141
Dubai Marina
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Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean
The Address Montgomerie Dubai
04 3905600
Enjoy lunch at Bussola. Indulge in two courses of Italian food for only AED110 per person. The lunch runs from 12 to 2.45pm from Sunday to Thursday. Brunch lovers should also check out the famous Friday brunch, Bubbalicious. Prices start at AED350 per person. Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai
Emirates Hills End the weekend on a traditional note and head to Nineteen for a Saturday roast. Prices start at AED235 per person.
Towers Rotana Dubai
04 3438000
Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International
Sheikh Zayed Road For British fare at its best head to Flavours on Two every Tuesday for Flavours from Britain. For AED179 expect classic Brit dishes with selected beverages.
The h hotel, dubai
04 5018888
Sheikh Zayed Road Visit Diademas Cigar Lounge for cheese and two glasses of wine for AED90, from 6 to 8pm every Thursday.
Flavours on Two – International Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International
Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar Ruth's Chris Steak House – Steakhouse
Traders Hotel Dubai
Alegra
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. 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 in a friendly environment . cavalli club
04 332960
Fairmont Dubai A chic nightspot that attracts a trendy late-night crowd. Centimetro
04 3666730
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. Chi’Zen
04 2329077, 04 3549288 Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates
First-class Cantonese cuisine 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. The Mango Tree
04 4267313
Souk Al Bahar
04 2659888
Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while overlooking Burj Khalifa.
The Meydan
The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style.
Ushna
Meydan
Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International
Deira
04 3813333
villa rotana
Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience.
04 3216111
Sheikh Zayed Road
Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house Shiba – Asian
Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet. Moka Café – All-day dining
04 3686506
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor, excellent cuisine and friendly service make this Indian restaurant a favourite. West 14th
04 4477601
The Palm Jumeirah Expect succulent steaks at this New York grill and bar.
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DUBAI TOURIST MAP
N W ATLANTIS THE PALM
E
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
9
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
INTERCHANGE 6
4
12
6
5
METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3
JUMEIRAH ISLANDS
B1
9
5
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
10 22 45
27
10
EMIRATES HILLS
THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI
40 17 11
SALIK
MALL OF THE EMIRATES
9
12
B1 E2 E2 E2 A1 B3 B3 A1 D2 B2 A1 B1
HIGHWAY
JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION
EM
IRA TES
RO
TO AIRPORT
AL KHAIL ROAD
JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION
AD
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
7
• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB
6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB
6
1
4
N W
HI GH W AY
8 THE ELS CLUB
E
DUBAI JUMEIRAHAUTODROME ARABIAN RANCHES BEACH GOLF CLUB
SKYDIVE DUBAI
11
15
RO
S
8
2
S
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
AD
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.
25
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
IR
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
8
SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
UMM SUQEIM
74 44
IBN BATTUTA
34
61
7
JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS
ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK
18
12
43
AL SUFOUH ROAD
23 DUBAI MARINA MALL
11
5 41 83 54
11
52
DUBAI MARINA
RESORT & SPA
30
THE PALM JUMEIRAH
79 42 24 8
26
69
33 JEBEL ALI GOLF
64
EM
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
38
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
1
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
8
INTERCHANGE 4
38 39 40 41
S
E2 D3 D2 D1 A1 D2 E1 A1 B2 B3 B1
INTERCHANGE 5
2
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
5
70
79
THE WALK
42
24
TO A
52
JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE
18
DUBAI MARINA MALL
74
IRPO
RT
18
23
DUBAI MARINA
5
GLOBAL VILLAGE
MARINA WALK
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
6
7
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
39
JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD
2
5 SAFA PARK
SATWA
SALIK
6
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
3
71
CREEK PARK
6 56
3 ETH
AR
D
DUBAI HEALTHCARE 63 CITY
4 WAFI
32
67
SH
13 81
AR
JA
METRO GREEN LINE STATIONS 15 TO 20
H 14 15
16
35 2
17
26
2 SALIK
INES
18
ROAD
BUS
AL GHURAIR CITY
RD
25
DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB
21 14
1
D
EJ RD
RD
51
7
DEIRA CITY CENTRE
28 DM
NA
EE
14
23 12
48
24
LAMCY PLAZA
OU
EE
SH
CLOCK TOWER
16
5
UT
RA
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
4
3
50
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
25
SALIK
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE
59
AL KARAMA
BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS
DIFC
57
D
BUSINESS BAY
4
11 22
RD
47
AL
M
60 68
5 21
QA R
21
4
20
19 AL
53 37
36 65 14
80
19
DEIRA
MAKTOUM
13
15
14
TRADE
AL K
10
6
23
E RD CENTR
19
18 29
17
16
18
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
62 20 76
66 82 49 13
23 TO AIRPORT
WORLD TRADE CENTRE
28
AL RIQ
23
RD 5
BURJUMAN
SATWA RD
AL WASL ROAD
BUR DUBAI MANKHOOL
9
ABU HAIL ROAD
JUMEIRAH 5
8 DUBAI MUSEUM
46
BER
15 13
3
5 19 26
MINA RD
17 22
27
2ND DECEM
WOLLONGONG BEACH
TIMES QUARE ENTRE
HERITAGE VILLAGE
7 MERCATO
JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK
MM SUQEIM
S BA Y BR
27
GARHOUD
IDGE
28
19
AL BADIA GOLF CLUB
8
15
2 6 9
77 9
KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
MERCATO MALL ROAD TO:
27
16 • DESERT PALM DUBAI 7 • DRAGONMART
3
5 19 26
ROAD TO:
JUMEIRAH
INTERCHANGE 1
BURJ KHALIFA
ROAD TO
23 AL MAHA DESERT 18
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
RESORT & SPA
16
78
SILICON OASIS
DUBAI FOUNTAIN
58
MANKHOOL RD
3
72
THE DUBAI MALL
ES R
OAD
DIFC
2
36
14
BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS DRAGONMART
19
5
BUR C
7
20
AL KARAM
4
53 37
MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE
20
MUSHRIF PARK
5 12
ZAABEEL
45
3
16
59
EMAAR BOULEVARD
23
MIRDIFF 5
29
AN
ROAD TO DUBAI OUTLET MALL 10
AT EMIR
65
18
17
/OM
BUSINESS BAY
6
4
80
76
62 20
82 49 13
16 19
73 24
DUBAI OUTLET MALL
66
1
15
DOWNTOWN DUBAI
BUR DUBAI
E RD CENTR TRADE
TTA HA
47
14
SATWA
SATWA RD D
2
INTERCHANGE 2
2 mile 2 km
RR
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
21
2 • ARABIAN CENTER
34
HO
DUBAILAND
AL WASL SAFA PARK
S
20 ROAD TO:
39
5
E
15 13
17 29
DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
LK
AL WASL ROAD
MINA RD
SA
N W
15
AL AIN
2
AL BARARI UNDER CONSTRUCTION
ROAD TO:
20 • MIRDIF CITY CENTRE
DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
13 22
10 • DUBAI OUTLET MALL 2 • Al MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA
BEACH ROAD
31
ER ECEMB 2ND D
MEYDAN
RA
2
THE PALM DEIRA UNDER CONSTRUCTION
LAMCY PLAZA
500 ft 200 m
28 6 D AR ETH
4
7
DUBAI HEALTHCA CITY
{
my dubai Long-time resident Jessica Hudson, founder of Hudsons Travel, gives us the lowdown on how to have a luxurious stay in the city
}
1
My parents moved to Dubai in the late ’70s and I spent my first few years here. We later relocated to South Africa, followed by a stint in England, but I moved back to the emirate in 2006, so I feel like I’m part of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai. I really enjoy my weekends here. Waking up with a long morning swim in my pool followed by brunch with friends at Jones the Grocer on Sheikh Zayed Road is a great way to start the day. Friday afternoons are usually spent on the polo fields at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club where my husband plays chukkas and we catch up with friends. On Saturdays we often head to the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club where we take our Hobie Cat (a small sailing catamaran), out on the water. When it comes to eating out, we are spoilt for choice in Dubai. Zest at One&Only The Palm is my favourite setting for a romantic dinner. You won’t find better lamb cutlets and tagine. Reem Al Bawadi on Jumeirah Beach Road is a top choice for Arabic mezze and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. It
1 Zest at One&Only The Palm 2 British Polo Day
has a great atmosphere with local music and people puffing away on shisha. If I’m hankering after a succulent steak, I usually book a table at Gaucho Dubai in Dubai International Financial Centre. In addition to the meaty offerings, the Dulce de Leche cheesecake is delicious. When I have friends in town I enjoy taking them to see ‘old’ Dubai. A stroll through the Gold Souk, followed by an abra (water taxi) ride along the Dubai Creek is a great way to take in the city’s heritage. I also like to take guests out of the city for a bit of off-roading. We usually drive to Fossil Rock in the desert, where all you can see are sand dunes for miles in every direction. During the evenings Dubai really comes alive and I like nothing more than enjoying sundowners at Calabar, at The Address Downtown. The terrace area overlooks Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain so make sure you have your camera at the ready. Dubai has a variety of annual events to enjoy, but my favourite is the British Polo Day, which my husband and I set up
When it comes to eating out, we are spoilt for choice in Dubai. Zest at One&Only The Palm is my favourite setting for a romantic dinner
four years ago. It’s an annual polo event held at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and is a quintessentially British occasion of picnics, Pimms and polo. A glamorous crowd of locals, expatriates and international guests attend. The next event will take place March and it will be the fifth anniversary, so visitors can expect big things. In addition to the British Polo Day, my other favourite annual events are the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and Art Dubai. These two also take place in March, which is a fabulous time to be in the emirate as the winter weather is absolutely beautiful.
2
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