FEBRUARY 2014 | issue 114
FEBRUARY 2014 | issue 114
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
Concierge DXB_COVER_FEB14.indd 1
29/01/2014 10:00
Untitled-1 2-3
21/01/2014 15:18
Untitled-1 2-3
21/01/2014 15:18
W HY Just be preCise WHen You Can be tHe Most preCise?
Master tourbillon DualtiMe. Jaeger-leCoultre Calibre 978b with patented jumping date. Winner of the first International Timing Competition of the 21st century, held under the auspices of the Geneva observatory, Jaeger-leCoultre Calibre 978 boasts peerless precision in a new 41.5 mm-diameter pink gold case. its 71-part tourbillon regulator features an ultra-light grade 5 titanium carriage and a large variable-inertia balance beating at a cadence of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
You DeserVe a real WatCH.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Boutiques: The Dubai Mall +971 4 339 8769, Abu Dhabi Marina Mall +971 2 658 0004, Avenue at Etihad Towers +971 2 681 2834 Find your nearest point of sale at www.jaeger-lecoultre.com
W HY Just be preCise WHen You Can be tHe Most preCise?
Master tourbillon DualtiMe. Jaeger-leCoultre Calibre 978b with patented jumping date. Winner of the first International Timing Competition of the 21st century, held under the auspices of the Geneva observatory, Jaeger-leCoultre Calibre 978 boasts peerless precision in a new 41.5 mm-diameter pink gold case. its 71-part tourbillon regulator features an ultra-light grade 5 titanium carriage and a large variable-inertia balance beating at a cadence of 28,800 vibrations per hour.
You DeserVe a real WatCH.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Boutiques: The Dubai Mall +971 4 339 8769, Abu Dhabi Marina Mall +971 2 658 0004, Avenue at Etihad Towers +971 2 681 2834 Find your nearest point of sale at www.jaeger-lecoultre.com
Test DPS.pdf
1
16/12/2013
14:48
Test DPS.pdf
1
16/12/2013
14:48
Untitled-1 1
21/01/2014 15:12
febRUaRy 2014 / issUe 114 / dUbai editioN
Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s
edi tor i a l Grou P edi tor fay e ba Rt l e edi tor JacQU e l i N e c a st e l lUcci a Con t r ibu t inG edi tor ol i v i a cU t hbe Rt ProduC t ion edi tor de bR a fR e e m a N-t hoR pe F e at u r es edi tor R ache l i NgR a m Con t r ibu tor cl a iR e m a lcol m
Welcome to Concierge
st u dio se n ior a rt dir eC tor a N dR e a t e m pesta a rt edi tor toN y sa N t i ago desiGn er s k aReN almazaN R i tz gU t ie R R ez PhotoGr a Pher a dh a m sN e e h ProduC t ion Coor dinator soh a il k h a N
a dv ert isi nG busi n ess dir eC tor v e R a ba k e R sen ior r el at ionshiP m a naGer da R Ry l W il l e y hot el r el at ionshi P m a naGer mi a c ache Ro r el at ionshi P m a naGer s Rose d’soUz a c a R me N silva aysh a ch a p t i se n ior r el at ionshiP m a naGer – sPeCi a l Proj eC ts k iR at sa bh a RWa l
CirC u l at ion & m a r K et inG c a Rol mil a N chR ist iN e h a m a da
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 coNci e Rge m aga zi N e , t h e pU bl ish e R c a N N 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 R Ro 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.
February brings with it a sense of romance and an appreciation for the finer things in life. Whether it’s a gourmet meal in a sensational setting, adventure in the desert or a relaxing day spent on a paradise beach, Dubai is a dynamic destination that delivers memorable moments in abundance to share with that special someone. To ensure gifting success on Valentine’s Day, the world’s leading luxury watchmakers offer a simply stunning collection of gem-encrusted timepieces, turn to page 28 to choose your favourite. A beautiful writing instrument makes both a treasured gift and much-loved possession. Turn to page 34 for a series of luxurious pens inspired by some of history’s greats. Engendering a feeling of people and times past, antiques are beautiful pieces that offer a unique aesthetic in exceptionally intricate design details. Concierge presents a glimpse into the city’s burgeoning antiques world on page 40. The falcon is the UAE’s national symbol and a beautiful bird of prey that carries with it the story of the nation’s past; learn all about these captivating creatures on page 58. Dubai is an established destination for some of the world’s biggest sporting events and as such, this month plays host to Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The sport’s global stars stage an incredible show as they battle for honours in this major fixture, find out more on page 66. This month marks a perfect moment to take time out of busy schedules and unwind with loved ones. Dubai’s five-star spas offer blissful pampering experiences for couples to enjoy, choose from a selection on page 70. Visitors to Dubai and Abu Dhabi are spoilt for choice when it comes to outstanding gastronomic experiences. The cities’ fine dining restaurants are the perfect choice for a Valentine’s Day meal, enjoy an evening to remember on page 78. Enjoy all Dubai has to offer with Concierge.
nicholas Publishing International fZ LLc P.O . Box 500573, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 4243600 Fax: 04 4327505 Email: concierge@npimedia.com Web: conciergedubai.com Concierge’s circulation is independently audited by B PA 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。
_WELCOME_DXB FEB14.indd 11
In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh Location: Damas workshop, Dubai
A beautiful piece of jewellery is so much more than simply an adornment. In addition to fulfilling the role of a wonderful aesthetic enhancment, a carefully crafted jewellery item also tells the story of the artisan who created it. The artist’s influence can be felt in a host of details from the choice of materials used to the cutting and polishing of gemstones. It is this attention to detail and commitment to a flawless finish that shines through in precious pieces. Discover the fine art of jewellery making in the UAE in this month’s Concierge photo essay on page 48.
24/01/2014 11:46
Untitled-1 1
19/01/2014 14:16
Contents FEBRUARY 2014 / IssUE 114
18/Essentials
The emirate’s top attractions, news and events
24/Marine marvels
An incredible aquatic encounter awaits visitors to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
26
Shop 28/In timely fashion
A luxurious bejewelled timepiece makes the perfect Valentine’s Day gift
34/The write lines Be inspired by an exquisite selection of premium pens
40/Past master
Dubai antiques collector Behrouz Javaheri introduces his stunning treasures
The UAE’s jewellery-makers are masters of their craft
48/An artisan’s view
In this month’s photo essay, Concierge ventures behind the scenes at jewellery ateliers to watch creations unfold
_CONTENTS_DXB FEB14.indd 13
The Flemish CabareT, Pierre marie beyle
46/Land of treasures
23/01/2014 11:43
Contents FEBRUARY 2014 / IssUE 114
56
Discover 58/In flight
The majestic falcon is an important symbol of the UAE’s past and present
62/Island life Explore Dubai’s island oasis Palm Jumeirah
64
Experience 66/Net worth
FALCONRY IN THE UAE
A host of international tennis talent is in town for the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
_CONTENTS_DXB FEB14.indd 14
70/Time to reflect
February is the ideal time to unwind together with a pampering couples’ spa treatment
23/01/2014 11:42
Discover Luxury
The largest selection of genuine 19th century French antiques in the region, 19th Century Antiques includes rare furniture, bronzes, paintings, clock sets, and vases of exceptional quality and taste.
JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS, BOULEVARD | DUBAI, UAE TEL: +971 4 3887000 FAX: +971 4 3887111 | WWW.19CENTURYANTIQUES.COM Untitled-9 1
21/01/2014 11:47
Contents FEBRUARY 2014 / IssUE 114
76
Taste 78/A perfect setting
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a gourmet meal for two at one of the UAE’s distinctive dining destinations
86/Eastern promise
Welcome a new year in the Chinese calendar at one of Dubai’s magnificent Oriental restaurants
94/The perfect blend Enjoy the finest local flavours with an Arabic coffee
OSSIANO, ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI
97 The guide
_CONTENTS_DXB FEB14.indd 16
120/My Dubai Museum founder, Ramin Salsali, shares his city highlights
23/01/2014 11:42
CONC DXB JAN 14_Stargems_FP.pdf
1
22/12/2013
09:40
Essentials
february
d i s c ov e r Dubai Creek
dubai creek, also known as Khor dubai, was once the lifeblood of the city which sustained a thriving fishing and pearl diving industry. Nowadays the creek and its surrounding areas are an important historical centre. A natural seawater inlet of the Arabian Gulf, its waters stretch 14 kilometres and divide the city into two parts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bur dubai and deira. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is nearby and, as one of the oldest parts of the city, is home to a number of culturally significant buildings. A collection of character-filled souks is also a short walk away. dubai creek is currently being considered for UNesco World Heritage site status, which would officially recognise the cultural importance of this fascinating space.
18
CONC_DXB_REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_FEB14.indd 18
24/01/2014 11:49
SHOP
EVENTS IN BRIEF
Valentine’s gift
D u b a i S h o p p i n g F e S t i va l
For a gift that is thoughtful as well as sentimental, Boucheron’s Pégase ring is an ideal purchase for Valentine’s Day. The equestrian silhouette commemorates 2014 as the Chinese Year of the Horse while the name is inspired by Pegasus, the famed winged horse from Greek mythology. Studded with white diamonds and coloured sapphires, this exquisite piece will not only dazzle; it will forever remind the wearer of the special time in which it was given. Available from Boucheron, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai. Contact: 04 3410030
Until February 2 The region’s biggest annual shopping event draws to a close and promises golden opportunities to take advantage of incredible offers in more than 70 of the city’s malls including the world’s largest, The Dubai Mall. Contact: mydsf.ae
TA S T E Chocolatier
Step into a world of luxurious treats at Parisian chocolatier, Forrey & Galland. Lovingly created from the finest ingredients with a touch of French flair, macaroons and dates take pride of place alongside exquisite handmade chocolates. Where: The Dubai Mall. When: Daily, 10am to 10pm. Contact: 04 3398850
oMega Dubai D e S e R t C l a S S i C 2 014 Until February 2 Dubai attracts some of the world’s greatest golfing talent as the annual Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2014 gets underway at Emirates Golf Club. Expect action-packed competition on the fairways as an exceptional roster of players compete for the coveted trophy. World number one Tiger Woods leads the field in the exciting 25th edition of the longest-running European Tour event in the region. Visit dubaidesertclassic. com for ticketing information. Contact: 04 3802112
Dubai polo golD C u p S e R i e S 2 014 February 24 to March 14 This charming event, held in the lush surroundings of the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club brings together the world’s best polo teams and players in an actionpacked competition. Enjoy gourmet food in VIP stands or share a picnic with family and friends on expansive lawns. Contact: 050 1190732
global village
E X PER I E NCE Meydan race nights
Dubai’s thrilling horse racing season is underway with an exciting series of races and events. The programme is a showcase of nine race meetings, which began in November and continue to the pinnacle of the horse racing season, the Dubai World Cup in March. Visitors can enjoy exceptional dining and entertainment at the heart of the racing action. Tailored hospitality packages are offered at gourmet restaurants, first class lounges and private suites, each boasting sensational views of the racetrack at the impressive Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse. Contact: dubairacingclub.com
Until March 14 Enjoy a fun-filled day for all the family at Global Village, the largest cultural extravaganza in the region. Visitors can expect festivals, shopping and entertainment in an al fresco theme park in Dubailand. Expect live entertainment, music and family activities as well as shopping at eclectic stalls. Tickets cost from AED15 per person for adults. Children under three years old, individuals with special needs and over 65s enter for free. Contact: globalvillage.ae
19
CONC_DXB_REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_FEB14.indd 19
24/01/2014 11:50
D i s c oV e r
Ask the concierge
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
m i c h a e l fa r a g , a S S i S Ta N T d i r e c T o r o f f r o N T o f f i c e aT a l g h u r a i r r ay h a a N b y r o Ta N a , g i v e S h i S r e c o m m e N daT i o N S f o r a m e m o r a b l e S Tay i N T h e c i T y
At the top of the list for any visitor to Dubai is a visit to Burj khalifa, the panoramas from the viewing platform there are truly amazing. of course, another of the most exciting activities to enjoy while in Dubai is shopping and, as home to a host of exceptional malls including the world’s largest, the Dubai Mall, there is no shortage of places to find world-leading brands. there is plenty to do for thrillseekers during a visit here and there are several companies who offer sky diving opportunities. skydive Dubai has a team of expert instructors who will accompany divers on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure which offers sensational views of Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian gulf. Dubai is a city filled with fascinating historical and cultural sites. Dubai Museum tells the story of the emirate’s incredible progression from pearl diving village to thriving metropolis in a series of innovative exhibits. the museum is located in Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood, which is one of the city’s oldest quarters and is peppered with art galleries and traditional buildings. close by is Dubai creek where bustling banks are a reminder of the city’s trading past. A few minutes’ walk from the creek is Dubai’s colourful collection of souks where visitors can find all manner of souvenirs from gold jewellery and traditional perfumes to fabrics. For those looking to enjoy a memorable meal, Al Muntaha at Burj Al Arab is a wonderful choice. this fine-dining restaurant is not only located in one of the city’s most luxurious hotels but offers stunning gulf views and mouthwatering dishes. Finish the evening with a visit to one of Dubai’s most exclusive destinations, cavalli club at Fairmont Dubai.
A proud monument to islam and cross-cultural understanding, the sheikh Zayed grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi’s crowning glory and well worth a trip during a visit to Dubai. inside the gleaming white structure, 24-carat gold chandeliers hang from ornamented ceilings while marble floors are adorned with handwoven Persian rugs. Where: Al Maqtaa, Abu Dhabi. When: sat to thu, 9am to 10pm. Contact: 800 555
shoP
Chinese zodiac watch Vacheron constantin has released a special edition of the stunning Métiers d’Art collection, the Legend of the chinese zodiac. A selection of beautifully intricate timepieces pay tribute to the ancient 12-year cycle and, in particular, the sign of the horse which takes over from the snake on February 1. to mark this occasion, two new watches boast magnificent enamelling and engraving work for a spectacular finish. crafted in pink gold or platinum, and limited to just 12 pieces, these special watches are available exclusively in Vacheron constantin boutiques. Contact: 04 2221222
e X Per i e nce Spa day
talise spa at Madinat Jumeirah is one of the city’s finest and offers a host of innovative treatments to refresh. the idyllic setting boasts white sand beaches and lush tropical gardens presenting a perfect environment in which to enjoy something special from the spa menu. talise spa now offers tai chi classes taught by Master can, a 34th generation warrior monk from the Maling shaolin kung Fu Academy in henan Province, china. tai chi sessions are intended to help reduce stress and aid relaxation. How much: one hour tai chi session, AeD400 per person. Contact: 04 3666818
20
CONC_DXB_REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_FEB14.indd 20
24/01/2014 11:56
Showrooms Dubai Mall | Dubai Marina Mall | Mall of the Emirates | Wafi | Gold Souk retail@mahallatijewellery.ae â&#x20AC;&#x201D; www.mahallatijewellery.com Tel: +971 4 2262277
D I S C OV E R
LOOKING AHEAD
Emirates Classic Car Festival
E m i r at E s F E s t i va l o F l i t E r at u r E
Taking place from Feb 27 to March 3, the Emirates Classic Car Festival is a magnificent event for motoring enthusiasts and classic car aficionados. Now in its sixth year, an impressive line-up of more than 140 cars and motorcycles promises to deliver a fun day out for all the family to enjoy at Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard in the heart of Downtown Dubai. How much: Admission free. Contact: emiratesclassiccarfestival.com
March 4 to 8 Leading authors from all corners of the globe are set to participate in this five day celebration of the written and spoken word. Writers of all genres are represented with confirmed scribes for this season including William Sitwell, Kate Adie and Joanne Harris. Tickets cost from AED60 per person. Contact: emirateslitfest.com
E X PER I E NCE At the Top
ta s t E o F D u b a i March 13 to 15 The region’s premier food festival returns for another slice of some of the finest fare Dubai has to offer. Enjoy the al fresco setting where a relaxed atmosphere is created by live music and stalls selling gourmet dishes and treats from the finest kitchens in the city. Celebrity chefs will also be on hand to offer advice and present expert live cooking displays. For ticket prices contact organisers. Contact: tasteofdubaifestival.com
Enjoy unparalleled views of Dubai from At the Top, the observation deck in the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa. Located on the 124th floor and easily accessible thanks to the swift elevators which climb at a rate of 10 metres per second you can expect exhilarating sights of the city and stunning photo opportunities. Where: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai. When: Daily, 10am to 1pm. How much: In advance AED120 adults, AED95 children aged four to 12. Immediate entry, AED400. Contact: 800 AT THE TOP (28843867) or visit burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck
art Dubai March 19 to 22 International artists and galleries gather for this important showcase of art from the region and beyond. Expect a wonderful variety of pieces presented by a selecton of accomplished artists. There is also a lively programme of talks and workshops to enjoy while fine French jeweller Cartier stages an impressive display of luxurious pieces. Tickets cost from AED50 per person. Contact: artdubai.ae
Dubai WorlD Cup March 29 The world’s richest race returns for another exciting day of horseracing action at the Meydan Grandstand and Racecouse. Watch from the stands as the world’s thoroughbreds storm down the track in competition for an overall prize purse of US$10million. Choose from a selection of gourmet food and beverage options as well as a variety of VIP packages. General Admission from AED25. Contact: 04 3272110
TA S T E Dinner cruise
Enjoy a feast for all the senses on a dinner cruise along Dubai Creek where gourmet food is served alongside stunning views of old and new Dubai. An extensive à la carte menu combines traditional favourites with adventurous modern creations. Savour pan-seared scallops and prawns, Thai crab with minted avocado or traditional Arabic mezze. Stand-out dishes also include duck rillettes terrine with citrus salad and cranberry caviar and asparagus risotto with morel mushroom and white truffle foam. When: Daily, 7.45pm. Contact: bateauxdubai.com
22
CONC_DXB_REGULARS_ESSENTIALS_FEB14.indd 22
21/01/2014 11:44
Untitled-7 1
21/01/2014 10:46
Marine marvels Discover the secrets of the deep at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo where an amazing insight into the world beneath the waves awaits. Shimmering hues of aqua and blue create a colourful canvas in which a rich variety of ocean creatures are a delight to observe. Bright shoals of fish add to the ever-changing scene as they hurry past while the graceful movements of the rays and sharks are sure to mesmerise. This incredible attraction is located at The Dubai Mall where its 10-million-litre tank stops shoppers in their tracks. One of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, it is home to over 140 underwater species including the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks. Get a closer look at the creatures with a stroll through the spectacular walk-through tunnel which offers a unique view of their habitat. Adventure-seekers can take the experience a step further by scuba diving in the tank among the sharks and fish. The Underwater Zoo is also a fun-filled part of the aquarium experience, where colourful characters from rivers and oceans await. The space is both educational and fun with informative exhibits on all of its inhabitants. Arranged around three ecological zones, Rainforest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean, expect to find otters, piranha, Humbolt penguins, Caiman crocodiles, lionfish, giant spider crabs and seahorses among the wealth of creatures to meet. 24
CONC_DXB_REGULARS_SNAPSHOT_FEB14_AT.indd 24
24/01/2014 11:52
S NA P S HOT
25
CONC_DXB_REGULARS_SNAPSHOT_FEB14_AT.indd 25
21/01/2014 11:42
Shop Michael Kors
The stunning Selma handbag from Michael Kors has fast become one of the designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sought-after pieces. The top-zip bag is now a signature silhouette, updated in fresh hues and materials for each season. This crocodile embossed Selma satchel is available from Michael Kors boutiques in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious cities from Paris to Hong Kong and Dubai. Contact: 04 3253491
26
CONC_DXB_SHOP OPENER_Michael Kors_FEB14_AT.indd 26
21/01/2014 11:41
27
CONC_DXB_SHOP OPENER_Michael Kors_FEB14_AT.indd 27
21/01/2014 11:41
CARTIER GREEN BERYL AND DIAMONDS WATCH
28
CONC_DXB_SHOP_WATCHES_FEB14_AT_v2.indd 28
21/01/2014 11:39
W A T CHE S / S HOP
In timely fashion Express everlasting love with a precious high-jewellery timepiece on Valentine’s Day Words by
rachel Ingram
For love that’s eternal there isn’t a more meaningful present than the gift of time. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, Concierge has gathered a selection of the most irresistible high-jewellery timepieces available in Dubai. From Cartier’s green beryl cuff with a discreet dial to the striking heart-shaped Graff Diamonds wristwatch, there’s a model to suit every taste. Fall in love with diamonds, gold and precious stones this February.
29
CONC_DXB_SHOP_WATCHES_FEB14_AT_v2.indd 29
21/01/2014 11:39
SHO P/ WA TCHES
1
The Graff Luxury Watches’ Trilogy collection represents more than romance and style; the complex piece demonstrates the best in diamond cutting expertise with an expertly crafted shimmering dial boasting elegant hands in a blue hue
2
3
Cartier Green Beryl and Diamonds Watch
Graff Luxury Watches’ Trilogy The origins of the heart symbol date back to the mid 13th century when a manuscript was found showing a man presenting a heart-shaped pine cone to his lover. The shape has been retained in almost all cultures and is commonly used to signify romance and love, especially in jewellery design. If you’re gifting a heart this February, if doesn’t get more luxurious than a Graff Diamonds heart. This timepiece from the Graff Luxury Watches’ Trilogy collection represents more than romance and style; the complex piece demonstrates the best in diamond cutting expertise with an expertly crafted shimmering dial boasting elegant hands in a blue hue.
If making the choice between purchasing a stunning piece of jewellery or a watch as a Valentine’s Day gift becomes too testing, this stunning cuff from Cartier beautifully combines the two. New from the luxury jewellery maison’s Les Heures Fabuleuses de Cartier collection, the bracelet itself is made from 18-carat rhodiumplated white gold and paved with brilliant-cut diamonds while a colossal green beryl takes pride of place opposite the dial. The true definition of a jewellery watch; the glittering cuff is a show-stopping accessory first and a timereading device second.
1&2 Graff Luxury Watches’ Trilogy 3 Cartier Green Beryl and Diamonds Watch 4 Boucheron Ajourée Chameleon
4
Boucheron Ajourée Chameleon For those with an artistic eye or a penchant for nature, this high-jewellery timepiece is the perfect accessory. Chameleon is one of the most stunning and versatile pieces from Boucheron’s Ajourée collection and it’s dedicated to the wonders of the animal kingdom. Fashioned from a rainbow of over 300 diamonds, tsavorites, sapphires and rubies, complemented with a white brushed-satin strap, the watch takes pride of place on any woman’s arm. The distinctive emblem of a chameleon is not only visually striking; it’s synonymous with protection since the fascinating lizards are renowned for camouflaging themselves to blend in with their surroundings. Let Boucheron safeguard your loved one this Valentine’s Day.
30
CONC_DXB_SHOP_WATCHES_FEB14_AT_v2.indd 30
22/01/2014 09:18
Untitled-2 1
19/01/2014 09:18
SHO P/ WA TCHES
Piaget Limelight Gala
Chaumet Bee My Love
A full pavé timepiece is the ultimate extravagance. With 741 diamonds paved across the 18-carat white-gold case, dial, bracelet and clasp, this is a diamond collector’s dream. Progressively sized brilliant-cut stones create a stylish and eye-catching swirl on the bezel, while under the surface a Piaget 690P quartz movement powers the grand accessory. This glamorous watch from Piaget’s Limelight Gala collection is certain to place the wearer at the centre of attention.
Take the phrase ‘be mine’ to a new heights by gifting this elegant Chaumet Bee My Love timepiece. The dainty model has a petite 19.5mm face, a mother-of-pearl dial, 18-carat pink gold bracelet and a white gold case studded with 38 brilliant-cut diamonds. The bee theme runs throughout the piece, from the honeycomb motif on the dial to the lanière bracelet with articulated honeycombshaped links. The timepiece may be dainty but it’s powered with a Swiss quartz movement, is water resistant up to 30 metres and is available in several different variations.
7 8
5
5 Piaget Limelight Gala 6 Jaeger-Le Coultre Reverso Cordonnet Duetto 7&8 Chaumet Bee My Love 9 Breguet Reine de Naples Anniversary Special 8973
6
WHERE TO BUY Boucheron: Mall of the Emirates, 04 3410039 Breguet: Available at Rivoli, The Dubai Mall, 04 3398496 Cartier: Mall of the Emirates, 04 3951000 Chaumet: The Dubai Mall, 04 3398758 Graff Diamonds: Burj Al Arab, 04 3307717 Jaeger-Le Coultre: The Dubai Mall, 04 3398769 Piaget: The Dubai Mall, 04 3398222
Jaeger-Le Coultre Reverso Cordonnet Duetto Relive the past with the Reverso Cordonnet Duetto, a modern reinterpretation of Jaeger-Le Coultre’s 1936 Reverso Cordonnet. With this new model, the Swiss luxury watchmaker takes its gem-setting expertise to the extreme. The white gold case houses two unique faces, the front of which is set entirely with diamonds while the back dial exhibits the stunning blue of the precious lapis lazuli stone. Innovative, creative and stylish, this reversible timepiece is a unique buy that effortlessly adds a touch of romance.
Breguet Reine de Naples Anniversary Special 8973
9
Created to celebrate 200 years since the release of the first Breguet wristwatch, and a decade since the launch of the Reine de Naples collection, this anniversary model is the epitome of fine watchmaking. Diamonds and blue sapphires in a multitude of cuts and carats speckle the dial and case, while a rose engraved in white gold adds a romantic touch at 12 o’clock. Powered by a self-winding mechanical movement that encompasses an optional chime sound on the hour every hour, this truly luxurious timepiece makes a dazzling addition to any watch collection.
32
CONC_DXB_SHOP_WATCHES_FEB14_AT_v2.indd 32
21/01/2014 11:40
081_CONC DXB FEB 14_Toko Dubai_FP.pdf
Untitled-4 1
1
23/01/2014
12:43
20/01/2014 10:46
The write lines Searching for a way to express how you feel this Valentine’s Day? Select the perfect tool and the writing will flow Words by
rachel Ingram
From sonnets scribed by Shakespeare to notes exchanged overseas by longdistance lovers; the written word has long gone hand in hand with romance. The origin of Valentine’s Day itself dates back to 18th century England when couples, inspired by the actions of Saint Valentine, presented each other with cards penned with poignant words. With the annual celebration due this month, it is an ideal time to purchase a writing instrument. Nowadays a reliance on technology means calligraphy and hand-written pieces are appreciated all the more for that personal and touch. Concierge explores some of the world’s top luxury brands offering writing tools sure to inspire the wordsmith within.
34
CONC_DXB_SHOP_PENS_FEB14_AT.indd 34
21/01/2014 16:56
ALFRED DUNHILL SENTRYMAN
PE N S / S HOP
35
CONC_DXB_SHOP_PENS_FEB14_AT.indd 35
21/01/2014 16:57
SHO P/ PEN S
1
Follow in the footsteps of presidents and royals by investing in a Montblanc writing instrument. With its white star logo symbolising the six glaciers of Europe’s tallest mountain, Mont Blanc, the brand’s pens are instantly recognisable. The Montblanc Meisterstück, known as the ‘power pen’, is the choice purchase for businessmen and high-profile figures on the international scene. Queen Elizabeth II of England and former U.S. President John F. Kennedy are just two well-known supporters of the brand. The model has been used to sign several historically significant treaties including the Franco-German treaty of 1963, signed by Kennedy and Germany’s Chancellor Konrad Adenauer. As one of the world’s finest producers of quality pens, Montblanc often pays homage to history by commemorating important events and writers with special edition pens. The latest dedicated piece Leonardo marked an addition to Montblanc’s Great Character collection, which was created in memory of Leonardo da Vinci. Montblanc also ensures that the specific preferences of a discerning clientele are met with the opportunity to create bespoke pieces as clients are encouraged to customise their purchases. Jérôme Lambert, Montblanc CEO says: “We believe that our relationship with our clients is unique. Personalisation is a must. We can tailor a writing instrument with a name or even initials on the nib of a fountain pen. It must be adapted to you and only you because we want the relationship to be special.” S.T.Dupont also boasts a long legacy of providing luxury pens and bespoke pieces with a particular importance placed on handmade craftsmanship and highquality materials. Each item created by
S.T.Dupont is crafted by a dedicated artisan using specialist skills to ensure every pen produced retains quality features that are distinguishable as the implement is handed down from generation to generation. Alain Crevet, president of S.T.Dupont, says: “Dupont always swears by this handmade, almost bespoke quality. When I was 18, my father offered me a Dupont lighter and I still have this lighter 30 years on. I also have my father’s own lighter and they’re both in amazing shape and working perfectly well. To me, that’s luxury.”
The brand specialises in collector’s items and often collaborates with exceptional people to create limited edition collections; the latest being fashion pioneer Karl Lagerfeld. The designer is known for his innovative flair and sharp eye for style and the S.T.Dupont Digital Set by Karl Lagerfeld is no different. The set, inspired by mobile technology, features luxurious black and silver ballpoint pens that are characterised by Lagerfeld’s signature silhouette, while a single bright red cornelian stone on the clip adds the finishing touch. Crevet adds:
2
1 Montblanc Great Characters Limited Edition Leonardo 2 S.T.Dupont Orient Express collection 3 John F. Kennedy using a Montblanc Meisterstück to sign the Franco-German treaty of 1963
“We believe that our relationship with our clients is unique. Personalisation is a must. We can tailor a writing instrument with a name or even initials on the nib of a fountain pen. It must be adapted to you and only you because we want the relationship to be special”
3
36
CONC_DXB_SHOP_PENS_FEB14_AT.indd 36
24/01/2014 11:58
Untitled-6 1
22/01/2014 12:18
SHO P/ PEN S
6
4
“I think Middle East customers have a sensitivity for luxury; they like amazing quality with very sleek and pure designs. There’s nothing too showy and shiny about Dupont. It’s genuine quality with beautiful designs that go through the ages.” For those in search of a touch of grand and ostentatious style, look no furhter than Cartier. The luxury French jeweller brings the same approach to the craftsmanship of writing instruments as it uses in its striking jewellery pieces and watches, reaffirming calligraphy as a true work of art. Cartier boasts five sophisticated lines of pens for men and women. The most extravagant in the series is the Exceptional collection. From the 18-carat yellow gold Exceptional Crocodile Décor Fountain Pen that features a pair of crocodiles paved with 559 diamonds, to the sterling silver Exceptional Hawk Fountain Pen that has a solid gold nib and a hawk with palmeira citrine stones for eyes, budding writers will surely be inspired. Across the English Channel, British luxury brand Alfred Dunhill has a long history of producing fine writing instruments. For 80 years Dunhill has created pens under two main families; Sentryman and Sidecar. Superior quality and craftsmanship reigns supreme across both collections and over time the brand has modernised itself by introducing ballpoints, rollerballs and pencils to these lines, plus the occasional limited edition model and bespoke piece. The new Black Resin Provenance Fighter Pen is inspired by iconic British fighter jets of the 1930s
and 1940s. Aesthetically, the silhouette of the clip represents plane propellers while the barrel reflects the aerodynamic shape of the aircrafts. The use of brass parts and black resin finishing means the outcome is not only sleek but extremely masculine. Luxury Italian brand Montegrappa places utmost importance on the preservation of tradition and to this day, artisans use ancient techniques such as deep drawing, die-casting, vitreous enamelling and brush polishing. These methods may be highly time-consuming but they certainly contribute to the brand’s superior quality. Continuing this sense of tradition, all Montegrappa pens, whether from the regular or limited edition line, possess distinctive features such as the octagonal shape and a rotating sphere on the end of the clip. Montegrappa frequently contributes pieces to charities and honours people who have made a significant positive impact on history. The most recent limited edition collection honours a man known for his powerful use of words, the late Nelson
Mandela. In a letter to his daughter Zindzi, written in February 1980 while he was imprisoned on Robben Island, Mandela said: “A good pen can also remind us of the happiest moments in our lives, bring noble ideas into our dens, our blood and our souls. It can turn tragedy into hope and victory.” After discovering this quote, Montegrappa, in partnership with the Mandela family and the Long Walk to Freedom, created the Nelson Mandela Limited Edition set, containing a pen, watch and cufflinks. Giuseppe Aquila, CEO of Montegrappa, says: “Nelson Mandela is a global icon, one of the most respected and revered human beings of the past century. Montegrappa feels privileged to be selected by the Mandela family as a partner to recognise his achievements.” While writing instruments are certainly a tool of inspiration, they make a thoughtful present, too. For a Valentine’s Day gift that is both sentimental and classic, a luxury pen makes a wonderful choice.
5
4 Montblanc Limited Edition Antoni Gaudi 5 Alfred Dunhill Black Resin Fighter Provenance 6 Alfred Dunhill Fighter Provenance 7 Montegrappa Nelson Mandela Limited Edition set
WHERE TO BUY Montblanc, available at The Dubai Mall, 04 4340300 Alfred Dunhill, available at The Dubai Mall, 04 4340403 Montegrappa, available at Rivoli boutiques across Dubai, 04 3398496 S.T. Dupont, available at The Dubai Mall, 04 3882581
7
38
CONC_DXB_SHOP_PENS_FEB14_AT.indd 38
21/01/2014 11:39
Untitled-1 1
16/01/2014 09:28
Past master Antiques collector Behrouz Javaheri has brought his impressive collection of European treasures to Dubai As a young boy growing up in Iran, Behrouz Javaheri was fascinated by the world of antiques. The family jewellery business introduced him to precious trinkets which were steeped in history. This early interest developed into a lifelong pursuit that has seen him amass one of the largest collections of antiques in the world. With business bases already in Dubai, the city was Javaheri’s first choice for the location of his flagship store, 19th Century Antiques. It provides the opportunity for Javaheri to share both his passion for antiques and extraordinary finds. A prime position in one of Dubai’s most exclusive shopping spaces, The Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, offers a stunning setting to showcase just some of Javaheri’s sought-after collection. The grand store is more like a carefully curated gallery than a traditional retail establishment. Gleaming white interiors present a perfectly polished canvas for the very special pieces as the unique space reflects Javaheri’s deep appreciation of rare antiques. “I have been passionate about antiques for as long as I can remember. In particular, 19th century French fine and decorative arts and furniture are of specific interest to me. My surname Javaheri derives from the Persian word for jewellery and as the name suggests my family has always been in the jewellery business. At times, that business coincided with selling antiques and from a young age my interests tended to gravitate towards the antique side of the business. As a result of that, I have spent my adult life collecting and maintaining antiques and now have one of the largest collections in the world,” says Javaheri.
40
CONC_DXB_SHOP_ANTIQUES_ FEB14_AT.indd 40
21/01/2014 11:36
Detail of bronze clock set
a n t i q ue s / s hop
41
CONC_DXB_SHOP_ANTIQUES_ FEB14_AT.indd 41
21/01/2014 11:36
sho p/ an tiques
Offering a special connection to people and moments from the past and a singular craftsmanship that cannot be replicated, the pleasure in collecting antiques comes from tracking down the truly exclusive. An antique is generally considered to be an item that is at least 100 years old. Often the starting period is prior to 1830 as this marked the beginning of mass production in most parts of the world. Many genres fall into the antiques category from fine art and sculpture to furniture, jewellery and books. Among classifications in which antiques are sold, exhibited and collected the most common is by country of origin. European antiques are still among the most sought after while Chinese pieces such as ceramics from the Ming Dynasty fetch many thousands. Antiques are also collected according to type. Furniture is a popular choice with bureaus and chests in mahogany or rosewood making a sound investment. By their nature, such pieces remain in good condition for decades and are often identifiable by a time stamp to denote a specific period of manufacture. Fine art is among the most valuable of antiques due to the rarity that comes from a piece created by just one artist. Elements that add to rarity include an unusual design feature or even a
2
1
1 A wool winder with her young child and baby, ca 1871, Pietro Antonio Sasso 2 Behrouz Javaheri 3 Mantel clock, end of 19 th century 4 Après la Bataille (After the battle), 1868, Joseph Navlet. Commode, W. Turner Lord and Co., Ltd
defect that makes for an interesting quirk. Pieces which were made to commemorate a particular occasion are also assigned an increased value. Elsewhere in the antiques world, a plethora of items are considered collectible. Vintage jewellery, timepieces, clocks and music boxes are just some examples of items prized as antiques as a result of their unique craftsmanship or time period.
Fine art is among the most valuable of antiques due to the rarity that comes from a piece created by just one artist
3
For antiques fans, collectors, or those looking to embark on a first foray into this fascinating area, there is a burgeoning scene in Dubai where reputable firms offer veritable treasure troves to explore. Javaheri’s tasteful boutique is at the forefront of that rapidly expanding market and offers a glimpse of just some of his enviable collection. Focusing mostly on French pieces from the 19 th century, visi-
4
tors to the exhibition-style space can view an impressive selection which includes vintage bureaus, antique clocks, fine art, sculptures and paintings. “The pieces have been acquired from around the world, during the past 25 years, and average 150 years old. I have spent years working with experts from all over the world and have developed a keen eye. I love Dubai and I want to support its cultural initiatives while
42
CONC_DXB_SHOP_ANTIQUES_ FEB14_AT.indd 42
22/01/2014 09:31
Untitled-4 1 Concierge_220x275_111213.indd 1
19/12/2013 11:49 11.12.13 12:16
sho p/ an tiques
5
7
6
enhancing its art offerings. As a passionate collector, I travelled far and wide to collect and view new pieces. I realised an antiques store with a cohesive collection of quality art and antiques was missing in Dubai’s emerging art market, and as a result I opened 19th Century Antiques,” explains Javaheri, who is also president and chairman of Saba Properties. “We provide the largest selection of 19 th century French antiques in the region. The store offers quality, genuine antiques in a unique environment that engages customers. Furniture in the pristine condition seen at 19th Century Antiques is the most difficult to obtain and among my favourite pieces to collect. My collection focuses on 19th century French antiques because of the genre’s fine quality and craftsmanship.
“That period of time is renowned for some of the most famous cabinetmakers of all-time. The quality of materials and precision in the details can be seen in such things as the bronze mounts and wood veneers, and are admired by collectors and scholars from around the world. My collection also includes many unique pieces that were made in small production runs of only two or three pieces,” explains Javaheri. Among the rare items presented since the boutique opened last year is a stunning bronze sculpture entitled Fauconnier Arabe à Cheval (Arab Falconer on a horse) by French Sculptor and animalière Pierre-Jules Mêne, considered the pioneer of animal sculpture in the 19th century. A beautiful painting by Pietro Antonio Sasso, A wool-winder with her young child and baby,
5 French ormolu-mounted Sèvres-style porcelain cobalt-blue ground three-piece clock garniture, late 19 th century 6 The Flemish Cabaret, Pierre Marie Beyle 7 Arab falconer on a horse, Pierre-Jules Mêne 8 Detail of Japy Freres clock set
8
from 1871 shows a charming scene between a mother of that time and her children. Another beautiful piece showcased is an intricately detailed commode. It is a 19th century model retained by W. Turner Lord and Co., Ltd. of London based on the original cabinet made for the bedroom of Louis XV in Versailles Palace in 1739. The cabinet includes a central panel with a bas relief mask of a satyr above a lock that opens two doors. The doors reveal two drawers with decorated gilt-bronze handles on either side. “I am fascinated by the historical significance of 19th century antiques and the unique story each piece tells,” says Javaheri. He continues: “The store’s interior is reminiscent of a 19th century French chateau. The custom gilt moldings and limestone floors are repeated throughout seven rooms or ‘halls’ and serve as a beautiful backdrop for the collection. “Our store is more than a shopping destination, rather it is a place to develop a good eye and personal taste. “There is a high level of appreciation for quality, luxury goods here in Dubai, which is in line with the collection we offer. We are certain interest in collecting will continue to grow.” Contact: 19 th Century Antiques, 04 3887000 Visit: 19centuryantiques.com
44
CONC_DXB_SHOP_ANTIQUES_ FEB14_AT.indd 44
21/01/2014 11:37
ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HEATING UP AT MEYDAN RACECOURSE.
Horseracing action every weekend at Meydan Racecourse. Gates open at 5.00pm. First race starts at 6.30pm.
DUB WORLDACIU CARNIVALP
Book your tickets at meydan.ae or call +971 4 327 2110
Like us on facebook/dubairacingclub
Proud to Partner:
Untitled-2 1
23/12/2013 14:39
Land of treasures
1
With a number of gold souks, workshops and local designers, the UAE is an established centre for jewellery craftsmanship
Arabian civilisation has long been linked to gold. Some of the world’s most ancient gold artefacts date back to around 3,000 BCE and were uncovered in archaeological digs in the Middle East. The Egyptians were the first to utilise the precious metal for an aesthetic purpose as goldsmiths transformed it into extravagant jewellery pieces for wealthy clients and burial headdresses for pharaohs such as Tutankhamun. Nowadays the region continues to lead in the creation of decorative ornamentation. This legacy extends to the UAE where the sheer magnitude of jewellery shops and souks help define the nation’s place in the industry. With international brands in abundance, craftsmen and women across Dubai and Abu Dhabi compete to offer something more
2
unique and provide locally-made jewellery. Perfect for discerning shoppers who place a high value on items which tell a story, local creations offer something special and are a sure-fire conversation starter. Whether indulging a penchant for gold, silver, diamonds or precious gems, the UAE is abundant with options. Furthermore, the emirates’ pearl diving roots mean it’s not uncommon for the gems to be found adorning jewellery pieces.
Traditionally, shoppers seeking such items visit the UAE’s character-filled souks; the Gold Souk in Dubai and the Gold Souk at The Madinat Zayed Gold Centre in Abu Dhabi. Here, shoppers can either explore readymade jewellery pieces or buy ingots of gold from which skilled artisans create bespoke designs to order. Offering a more modern alternative, Dubai’s Gold & Diamond Park brings together a multitude of local brands under
1 & 2 Gold Souk, Dubai 3 Gold Souk, Abu Dhabi 3
46
CONC_DXB_SHOP_SHOOT INTRO_Jewellery_FEB14.indd 46
24/01/2014 11:59
JE W E L L E RY/ S HOP
one roof and is as such a choice venue for shoppers seeking something special. Liali Jewellery and Damas are just two of the top local jewellers available here and elsewhere across the UAE. Liali Jewellery is known for its handcrafted, innovative designs and specialised use of diamonds, pearls and precious and semi-precious stones. From the workshop in Dubai, talented artisans create fine jewellery that supplies all 18 of Liali’s outlets across the emirate. An excellent personalisation service makes Liali an ideal choice when purchasing bespoke gifts. The Liali design team works with clients throughout every stage, from drawing board to sourcing and creation to ensure that the dream piece is crafted no matter how intricate the design or how rare the gems. Launched in 1907, Damas has emerged as one of the leading jewellery and watch retailers in the Middle East with in excess of 300 points of sale across the world. The award-winning company is headquartered in Dubai and has several outlets and workshops in the UAE where in-house items are created. With over a century of experience, the jeweller has developed a credible reputation for authentic, top-quality craftsmanship. For the most part, Damas jewellery is distinctly arabesque. Quality
5
4
18-carat yellow gold is the material of choice and state-of-the-art techniques are used to incorporate hand-selected jewels into unique jewellery designs. Beyond the UAE’s souks and dedicated jewellery centres there are multiple boutiques that showcase creations by local designers. S*uce in The Dubai Mall is home to several high-end jewellery brands including Ghada Ess.entials and Mar Mar; both of which have their own UAE-based workshops. Ghada Ess.entials is a vintage-inspired fine jewellery line designed by Dubai resident Ghada El Sokkari Sultan and specialising in delicate designs that are glamorous yet modern,
With so many incredible options available to purchase, a piece of jewellery from a local artisan is an option well worth exploring. Whether custom-made or off the shelf, acquiring UAE-made jewellery enables visitors to take a permanent reminder of the emirates home with them 4 Ghada Ess.entials earrings, S*uce 5 Jewellery making 6 Gold Souk, Abu Dhabi
6
using a variety of precious stones. Meanwhile Mar Mar is a trendy brand exhibiting bold pieces inspired by music and travel for the more eccentric shopper. Elsewhere local jewellers such as Reem Jewellery, available at Hamdan Center in Abu Dhabi, operate workshops that specialise in customisation especially for local orders. Established in the UAE in 1979, Reem Jewellery is famed for its contemporary bespoke pieces and high-fashion designs. With so many incredible options available to purchase, a piece of jewellery from a local artisan is an option well worth exploring. Whether custom-made or off the shelf, acquiring UAEmade jewellery enables visitors to take a permanent reminder of the emirates home with them. In turn, the choice to purchase a locally crafted trinket enables workshops in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to continue the region’s valued jewellery making legacy for centuries to come.
47
CONC_DXB_SHOP_SHOOT INTRO_Jewellery_FEB14.indd 47
21/01/2014 11:36
An artisan's view Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh presents an intimate portrait of jewellery craftsmanship in the UAE
48
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 48
21/01/2014 18:48
PHOT O E S S A Y / s hop
49
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 49
21/01/2014 18:48
Skilled designers at Liali's Dubai-based workshop begin the jewellerymaking process with a hand-drawn sketch. Here, traditional methods reign supreme over modern machinery. Talented craftsmen then create a concept around the design to plan how to accomplish it by hand
50
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 50
22/01/2014 09:32
Highly-experienced artisans at the Liali workshop use a multitude of tools to handcraft intricate jewellery through a regimen of established manufacturing techniques that have proved successful for decades. Once the body of the piece has been soldered into shape, filed, cleaned and polished, the final stage is embellishment. After the setting has been cast and foiled, stones and gems are cut and set into place with extreme precision resulting in a beautiful outcome that's then quality control checked before being delivered to Liali boutiques
51
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 51
24/01/2014 12:16
Damas treats jewellery making like an advanced art and uses a contemporary and highly advanced production method which involves the latest 3D technology. Although the process is lengthy and involves several stages, machinery enables craftsmen to maintain a high level of accuracy and create several pieces at once
Beginning the process, a machine is programmed with the blueprint of a design, which is then transformed into a wax prototype through the use of a laser that solidifies liquid wax. At a later stage the molten metal is finally ready to be poured into the final cast. Once hardened the cast is removed and the gold or silver piece is cleaned and polished by the workshopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craftsmen
52
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 52
23/01/2014 14:12
Artisans carefully file the diamonds to achieve the correct carat weight required for each jewellery piece. Once this process is completed, the precious gems are shaped to perfectly fit into the final cast
53
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 53
23/01/2014 14:12
54
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 54
23/01/2014 14:12
For the final phase the responsibility is returned to the hands of the artisans. Skilled craftsmen arrange the setting by hand and adorn the jewellery with diamonds or gems. Visitors to Dubai looking to create their own bespoke piece of jewellery can do so at the Gold & Diamond Park. A host of luxurious retailers can be found here, including Liali and Damas. Gleaming halls are laden with wares for visitors to browse before leaving with a precious purchase
With thanks to Damas and Liali Jewellery. For more information on Damas, please visit damasjewellery.com or contact 04 4270336. For Liali Jewellery contact 04 3688500 or visit lialijewellery.com
55
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_SHOOT_Jewellery_FEB14_AT.indd 55
23/01/2014 15:25
Discover On t he move
Dubai Moving Image Museum showcases a fascinating collection of exhibits, including magic lanterns and this charming 18th century peepshow. Peek inside the box and the beautiful scene hidden within is revealed. Where: Tecom. When: Daily, 11am to 7pm except Wed, 11am to 9pm and Sat, noon to 7pm. Closed Fridays. How much: AED50 per person. Contact: 04 4216679
56
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER OPENER_Moving images museum_FEB14.indd 56
21/01/2014 11:34
57
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER OPENER_Moving images museum_FEB14.indd 57
21/01/2014 11:35
In flight A noble sport synonymous with the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desert backdrop, falconry is emblematic of the culture and a national pastime Words by
Claire MalColM
In the fast-paced urban metropolis of Dubai itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to forget the landscape was once dominated by seemingly endless expanses of sand interspersed with coastal settlements and desert oases. As modern day life has usurped a much simpler way of living, certain traditions have also faded into obscurity but the noble sport of falconry remains a constant among many Emiratis and other Gulf country nationals. The sport dates back over 1,000 years with the history of falconry, the training and flying of falcons to catch wild quarry, occupying firm roots in the region since 2,000 BCE. Merchants, adventurers and crusaders from Europe and England became familiar with falconry during their travels in the Middle East and on their return home, encouraged both falcons and falconers to join them. In medieval England, it was the favoured field sport of the privileged classes for more than four centuries and ownership of a falcon was an acknowledged status symbol. Here, in the Middle East, falconry was used by the desert Bedouin to establish a source of fresh meat to supplement a meagre diet. Traditionally, Bedouin trapped migrating falcons in the autumn when they flew south from central Asia, from places such as Kazakhstan. They, in turn, used them to hunt the tasty houbara, a migratory bird common to the region.
58
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_FALCONS_FEB14_AT.indd 58
21/01/2014 11:32
falconry in the uae
FA L CON S / DIS COVE R
59
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_FALCONS_FEB14_AT.indd 59
21/01/2014 11:33
DIS C O VER/ FA LCO N S
Nowadays falconry is no longer practiced out of necessity but retains immense cultural significance. An emblem of the UAE and depicted on the local currency, the falcon is also part of an important sporting tradition that is synonymous with the region. Displays of falconry can be enjoyed as part of a desert safari experience, at various wildlife centres around the UAE, or as conservation-oriented activities at several luxury hotels located within official nature reserves.
Free as a bird Historically, Arab falconers released their birds back into the wild when the hunting season came to a close, but now the top birds are often kept year after year as the falconers maintain a close bond with the falcons which is forged through many months of training using skills handed down through generations. 1
“I started out in falconry when I was nine years old. My father taught me as it was something that was passed down in my family. Since I was a child I hunted with falcons but not for competition. It was purely a hunting sport rather than training the falcon for competitions,” says Rashid Ahmed Megren, a local falconer who competes each year in the Fazza Falconry Championships held between January and April in Dubai. He adds: “I only started competitive falconry a couple of years ago. Falcons are mainly used for hunting, but this sport was developed through the training of falcons and making them stronger.” The Fazza Falconry Championships was launched in 2002 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council. Since inception, the contest has become one of the region’s most prominent events in the sport. “Falconry is a part of the heritage because before we had all oil and gas, we only had the land and sea. On land we would hunt with the falcons. It was part of our livelihood but now it is more than that. It is more than hunting, the Fazza Falconry competition was set up to keep national heritage
2
“Falconry is a part of the heritage because before we had all oil and gas, we only had the land and sea. On land we would hunt with the falcons. It was part of our livelihood but now it is more than that”
1 Falconer and bird 2 & 3 Fazza Falconry Championships
3
in the United Arab Emirates alive. It is more than just a competition to me, it gives value and heritage to the falcon,” explains Megren. The UAE is also home to the annual Falcon Release Programme, which was initiated by the late President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who was a firm advocate of the tradition and released his own falcons back into the wild each year. The initiative is conducted in the hope that the birds will rejoin the wild population and contribute to ongoing growth and conservation. The programme is managed by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) through the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and sees more than 1,500 falcons released back into the wild in not only the UAE, but as far afield as China, Iran and Pakistan. The release programme works in tandem with the falcon passport and microchip implant, with birds able to be identified in the case of recapture or the eventuality of one being found dead.
60
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_FALCONS_FEB14_AT.indd 60
21/01/2014 11:33
FA L CON S / DIS COVE R
4
4 Falconry equipment
Only birds given a clean bill of health are included in the final release programme to ensure that the wild falcon population does not become infected with avian diseases. The birds are placed in controlled isolation and checked for any bacterial infections or parasites, before undergoing several weeks of training, as well as enjoying a special diet to prepare them for re-adaptation to life in the wild. The EAD is also working with the Mongolian government to build 5,000 artificial nests in the Mongolian steppes in a bid to increase the number of breeding Saker falcons.
Avian health check With some birds fetching upwards of US$50,000, it is only natural that falcon owners are keen to keep them in the peak of health. The first specialist facility in the Middle East, Dubai Falcon Hospital opened in 1983 and more than 12,000 locally owned as well as international birds have been treated at the state-of-the-art facility. Emergency veterinary services are available free of charge to all falcon owners in the emirate and the hospital also looks after birds belonging to the royal family and other VIP owners from around the region. The hospital has 30 ‘wards’ plus an advanced diagnostic imaging suite, modern surgical facilities and offers the highest international standards of care for its very special patients. It’s not just the falcons that need taking care of. Breeding ground habitat degradation and illegal trapping along global migration routes have also contributed to a decline in the numbers of the houbara. The National Avian Research Centre (NARC), located 100 kilometres from Abu Dhabi city, has been conducting research into numerous
aspects of wildlife ecology and physiology for over 20 years, with a special focus on protecting the houbara, often quarry for falconers, as well as the falcon. NARC also works to promote knowledge and understanding of avian conservation among the hunting community, with the aim of making the sport ultimately sustainable and keeping stocks of both hunter and prey at safe levels.
Flight of fancy The thrill of the hunt for both bird and hunter is the primary objective for any falconer, and the special bond between creature and man is essential to the relationship. In days gone by, a falconer would hide in a sand hole as he waited to trap a wild falcon before embarking on a rigorous training programme ahead of the arrival of the migrating houbara. Although falcons are far more easily procured today, the skill of the falconer still garners huge respect. The training process is the same as it was in the days of Sheikh Zayed and is an intense period
for both parties with the falconer spending long periods of time alone with his charge. To accelerate the taming process, the falcon is deprived of food for a period of time and its eyes covered by a specially tailored leather hood. Regally perched on the falconer’s thick leather glove and tethered with strong leather restraints, the bird is kept close for the first few days and weeks before being de-hooded and allowed to move between perch and hand, but not to fly. Once a degree of trust is established, the bird begins to take short flights where the falconer stands some distance away holding a lure and a choice morsel of raw meat while a second falconer controls the bird. The falconer calls out the bird’s name and twirls the lure in the air as the falcon swoops out of the sky in mere seconds to catch the bait before being rewarded with raw meat and later on in the training process, live prey, in what is a truly mesmerising display of nature at its most brutal and beautiful, preserving a fascinating tradition and vital heritage here in the UAE.
61
CONC_DXB_DISCOVER_FALCONS_FEB14_AT.indd 61
21/01/2014 11:33
Island life
1
Stretching out into the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah offers visitors unparalleled luxury in a truly unique setting
Elevated from the waters of the Gulf, Palm Jumeirah is a beautiful island that symbolises Dubai’s commitment to creating the extraordinary. Famed as an outstanding feat of design, the manmade archipelago’s pristine beaches and lush green landscapes are home to some of the world’s most exclusive hotels, resorts and restaurants. An incredible example of marine engineering, one important aspect at the original planning stage was a commitment to achieving harmony with the natural surroundings. Shaped to look like a giant floating palm tree when viewed from above, elegant fronds reach out into the waters in a design that has encouraged the creation of a natural reef. Schools of rays have been spotted in the waters lapping the fronds while the island itself is home to an array of birds and lush green plant life.
Palatial public spaces, gourmet restaurants and world-class leisure facilities promise a remarkable destination Reaching out into crystal clear waters, Palm Jumeirah has set the benchmark for inspired design. Comprising a two-kilometre-long trunk, 17 fronds and surrounding crescent, work on the project began in 2001. To create the island, 94 million cubic metres of sand was poured onto the seabed using specialist machinery followed by seven million tonnes of rock. The next stage involved a technique known as ‘rainbowing’ as
sand to cement the foundations was sprayed over the surface of the rising island. By the end of 2006, 4,000 luxury villas and apartments were ready for the first residents eager to set up home on the island. Palm Jumeirah is now one of the city’s most exciting destinations for visitors and boasts an incredible variety of plush venues. Among the choices available, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai is
2
62
CONC_DXB_TOURIST TRAIL_THE PALM_ FEB14.indd 62
23/01/2014 10:45
p alm jume i ra h/ t ou r is t t r a il
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Palm Jumeirah Zest, One & Only The Palm So Spa, Sofitel The Palm Nobu, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Aquaventure The Palm Monorail
4
3 6
a majestic resort surrounded by gardens and white sandy beaches. Mouthwatering cuisine is served at 20 restaurants such as renowned Japanese restaurant Nobu, while the resort boasts an excellent spa and a host of boutique shopping opportunities. Aquaventure waterpark is also based there, set in 42 acres with speed slides, river rapids, lush tropical landscapes and a private beach. A thrillseekerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise, there are plenty of white-knuckle rides such as the Leap of Faith tunnel slide that catapults riders through a shark-filled lagoon and the recently opened Tower of Poseidon. One & Only The Palm is a chic and elegant hotel where a combination of perfectly manicured gardens, luxurious interiors and poolside cabanas make for a memorable stay in this verdant
7
5
oasis. Restaurants here include the upscale Zest, which offers a mixture of Middle Eastern, Asian and Western cuisines. The island has also seen a clutch of new openings including Polynesianthemed resort Sofitel The Palm, Dubai which boasts a stunning spa and Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa which boasts the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first over-water villas. Bringing its unique mixture of luxury living and international acclaim is Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. Palatial public spaces, gourmet restaurants and world-class leisure facilities promise a remarkable destination. The Palm Monorail connects the island with the mainland and is a novel way to get around. Embark at the Palm Gateway station at the entrance to the island. Ride the length of the island to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and take in the sites along the way which include a unique island overview and stunning views towards Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa. Whether looking for a fine-dining experience or activities guaranteed to deliver heart-stopping excitement, no trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to Palm Jumeirah.
63
CONC_DXB_TOURIST TRAIL_THE PALM_ FEB14.indd 63
23/01/2014 15:26
Experience R ipple ef fect
For a new view of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest building, hop aboard The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride which cruises the waters at its base. Traditional boats known as abras ferry guests across Burj Lake for a novel vista of Burj Khalifa and the surrounding sights. When: Every 30 minutes, Sat to Thu, 5.45 to 11.30pm. Where: Downtown Dubai. How much: AED65 per person Contact: burjkhalifa.ae
64
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE OPENER_Dubai Fountain Lake Ride_FEB14_AT.indd 64
21/01/2014 11:31
65
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE OPENER_Dubai Fountain Lake Ride_FEB14_AT.indd 65
21/01/2014 11:32
Net worth An incredible roster of talent is ready to take to the courts at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships
Dubai is fast becoming known as one of the world’s premier destinations for sporting action. A slew of marquee events are held here each year in an array of disciplines bringing not only some of the globe’s greatest athletes but crowds of visitors keen to watch spectacularly staged tournaments and enjoy a host of associated events. Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is no exception and a highlight of the city’s sporting calendar. This month, top flight talent will be vying to put on an incredible show. The gathering of the sport’s shining stars from Roger Federer to Novak Djokovic makes for a thrilling two weeks of exhilarating contests and an occasion not to be missed. Now in its 22nd year, Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships promises to be even more impressive. Last year’s installment saw a record crowd of more than 100,000 turn out to watch incredible performances on the courts while a television audience of 40 million tuned in all over the world to watch the stars in action. The victors at the end of the tournament were the Czech Republic’s Petra Kvitova, who took her first Dubai women’s crown, and Serbia’s Novak Djokovic who claimed his fourth Dubai title defeating the Czech Republic’s Tomas Berdych in a stunning finale.
66
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_ FEB14_AT.indd 66
21/01/2014 11:31
THE DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS
T E N N I S / E XPE R IE NCE
67
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_ FEB14_AT.indd 67
21/01/2014 11:31
The line-up for this year’s contest, which takes places from February 17 to March 1, promises to deliver yet another sensational championship. Multiple title holders Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer lead the field in the men’s tournament, while the women’s competition sees defending champion Petra Kvitova and former title-holder Caroline Wozniacki vying for competition honours. Delighted with this year’s roll call, executive vice chairman of Dubai Duty Free Colm McLoughlin says: “We are again welcoming a stellar line-up of the top men and women and expect that tickets will sell out fast, so we encourage all tennis fans to snap them up as soon as they can. With so many top players entered, even the early round matches will be terrific entertainment. The depth of the fields in both the men’s and women’s event is amazing and we can guarantee that there will be world class action on every day of the tournament. There will also be non-stop activities in the tennis village throughout the tournament so sports fans are encouraged to come to the village at any time throughout the fortnight to be part of the excitement.”
1
“The depth of the fields in both the men’s and women’s event is amazing and we can guarantee that there will be world class action on every day of the tournament”
2
1 Novak Djokovic 2 Tomas Berdych
Guests can look forward to plenty to entertain away from the courts with an exciting programme to suit all ages on each day of the tournament. The Tennis Village is the place to be for all the off-court action with entertainment, live music, tennis-themed games and big screens showing every volley. There are also opportunities to meet the Championships’ stars with special autograph signings while competitions offer a lucky few the chance to win sought-after tickets to the mens’ and womens’ finals. The popular Catch and Win game makes a return which sees spectators awarded prizes for catching balls served into the crowd by the tennis stars before each game commences. Childrens’ and Ladies’ Day is also a favourite occasion among attendees. The special days are a wonderful opportunity for fans of the game to get more involved in the sport and glean insider tips from the professionals. Last year, hundreds of children from across the region descended on the courts for games, competitions and coaching from the stars.
Meanwhile, Ladies’ Day sees Dubai’s fashionistas battle it out in the style stakes for the Dress To Impress crown where prizes for best fashion sense include womens’ finals tickets. Owned and organised by Dubai Duty Free and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Championships have an illustrious past. A winners’ hall of fame includes the sport’s greats such as Rafael Nadal, Andy Roddick and Goran Ivanisevic while women’s tennis legends Martina Hingis and sisters Serena and Venus Williams have also taken part. In the past decade the event has also gathered an impressive array of awards, last year collecting its ninth title in 10 years as the ATP 500 Tournament of the Year. Add to that a host of top flight partners which includes Rolex, Burj Al Arab and Emirates airline, and it’s easy to see why this exciting tournament is here to stay.
68
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_ FEB14_AT.indd 68
24/01/2014 12:32
T E N N I S / E XPE R IE NCE
Player Profile: Roger Federer Ranked world number six by tennis’ governing body the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), Federer is one of the game’s biggest icons. Lauded as one of tennis’ best ever players, his record makes for incredible reading with a raft of titles under his belt including a reign at the world number one position for 302 weeks. The tennis ace has reached the Wimbledon final eight times, and
has won the tournament on seven occasions. He has also racked up five US Open wins and a silver medal at the London olympics in 2012. Federer is a brand ambassador for Rolex and with an apartment here in Dubai, is a veteran of The Dubai Duty Free Championships. The Swiss favourite won his fifth Dubai title after defeating Britain’s Andy Murray in 2012 and promises thrilling action this time around as he once again vies for honours.
3 Caroline Wozniacki 4 Roger Federer 5 Petra Kvitová
3
Player Profile: Caroline Wozniacki Talented Caroline Wozniacki is a Danish tennis star and former world number one, having held the position for 67 weeks from January 2012. Among the many credits to her name Wozniacki was the first Scandinavian woman to hold the top ranking world number one position. She has also won 21 World Tennis Association singles’ titles, between 2008 and 2013. At the 2009 US Open, Wozniacki was runner-up and finished in the same place during the 2010 WTA Tour Championships in Doha. In 2006, she won the Wimbledon Girls’ Singles and is making a return to the Dubai tournament this year. Wozniacki is a brand ambassador for Dubai Duty Free. 4
Player Profile: Novak Djokovic
Player Profile: Petra Kvitova
Tennis ace Djokovic is currently ranked by ATP as world number two in the sport, behind Rafael Nadal who is currently in the top spot. The Serbian star also holds a clutch of records and is the youngest player in the Open era to have reached the semi finals of all four Grand Slam events, both separately and consecutively. Djokovic also played the longest Grand Slam men’s singles final in history at five hours and 53 minutes. The accomplished athlete has won Wimbledon along with the French and US Open. Born in Belgrade, Djokovic started playing tennis at the tender age of four before being spotted at just six years old by a Yugoslav tennis great. Just like rival Federer, his talents stretch beyond the racket and he is fluent in four languages; his native Serbian, English, German, and Italian. The star is also a regular on The Dubai Duty Free Championships courts, having won in 2009, 2010 and 2011 and 2013.
Current world number six, Kvitová was introduced to tennis by her father who assisted in her training during childhood. With Czech-American star Martina Navratilova as her inspiration, Kvitová trained for success in her hometown of Fulnek in the Czech Republic until the age of 16 before pursuing a professional career. Famed for powerful left-handed shots, she has won 11 career singles titles so far and reached the ranking of world number two in 2011, winning Wimbledon the same year. Returning champion Kvitová will be back in Dubai this year in a bid to retain her crown.
B o o k yo u r s e at: Where: Dubai Tennis Stadium, Garhoud When: Feb 17 to March 1 Contact: Box office at Dubai Tennis Stadium, 04 4172415
5
69
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_TENNIS CHAMP_ FEB14_AT.indd 69
24/01/2014 12:41
Time to reflect Indulge in a treat for two with a pampering experience at one of Dubai’s luxurious spas
Valentine’s Day is an ideal opportunity to spoil that special someone with a romantic and carefully considered gift. A visit to the spa is not only a wonderful treat but an experience that can be enjoyed together. Recently, paired spa sessions have become increasingly popular as couples opt to take a break from busy schedules and unwind together in the serene spa environment. In Dubai a host of world-class venues boast not only an array of beautiful settings but an exceptional menu of therapies and massages to choose from. Every aspect of the experience is intended to encourage relaxation, from spacious treatment rooms for two to bespoke couples’ packages where treatments are tailored to suit the individual. For Valentine’s Day spa sessions, romantic extras such as flowers or a midnight swim can be added to make an unforgettable shared experience.
70
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_SPAS_FEB14_V2_RG.indd 70
21/01/2014 11:29
talise spa, burj al arab
S PA S/ e xp e r ie nce
71
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_SPAS_FEB14_V2_RG.indd 71
21/01/2014 11:30
EXPE R IENCE/SPA S
Conrad Spa Chic and exotic, a visit to this newly opened spa is a delight for couples looking to experience an eclectic mixture of treatments from around the globe. This grand space offers a warm welcome while carefully orchestrated mood lighting sets the tone for an exceptional pampering session. A dedicated couples’ treatment room provides the perfect setting for a soothing session for two. Select a special massage for couples which lasts one hour and comes complete with a bottle of Champagne. The romantic package also
includes one night’s stay in this plush hotel. Other treatments on the spa menu range from express-style sessions to lengthy, indulgent treatments. Organic ingredients are used while visitors can choose to create a bespoke session tailored to specific needs. The spa also offers Signature Treatments that draw on local influences. Where: Conrad Dubai / When: Daily, 9am to 10pm How much: Couples’ package, AED2,014 Contact: 04 4447444
One&Only Private Spa This majestic spa is located on the stunning Palm Jumeirah. Set in a beautiful lush green courtyard, winding gardens lead to this peaceful oasis. Natural light pours in through floor-to-ceiling windows which help to bestow a sense of calm. A dedicated couples’ treatment room offers a welcoming and spacious area in which to enjoy a luxurious treatment. Especially for couples, the One&Only Rhassoul Experience is a three-hour treat for all the senses. Taking influences from Arabian traditions, this cleansing ritual begins with a soothing skin treatment using a softening sea salt and oil exfoliation. After the pampering preparation, a selection of nourishing muds is smothered on the skin, from head to toe. A rejuvenating spell in the Rhassoul steam comes next to soothe tense and tight muscles before warm water rinses away the mud. A soak in a therapeutic bath and luxurious two-hour treatment selected from the varied spa menu ensures guests leave feeling calm and rested. Where: One & Only The Palm / When: Daily, from 10am to 9pm How much: One&Only Rhassoul Experience, AED2,890 for two / Contact: 04 4447444
72
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_SPAS_FEB14_V2_RG.indd 72
21/01/2014 11:30
ﻗﺎﻋﺔ Forum
Untitled-1 1
16/01/2014 09:32
EXPE R IENCE/SPA S
Caracalla Spa A serene sanctuary, this calming space boasts 12 private treatment suites offering a range of holistic experiences. Dressed in a traditional wrap known as a pestemal and loose sandals, couples are guided to the heart of the hammam where the calming sounds of running water echo against ornately tiled walls. The Complete Oriental Treatment offers a blissful 110 minutes of luxury and relaxation. It starts with cleansing followed by a body scrub. A body wrap with ghassoul mud is applied next, alongside a honey face mask before a soothing massage completes the experience. Another treat to try is the Royal Hammam which involves a deep cleansing using special Moroccan black soap, followed by a complete body scrub and a rejuvenating body wrap. Where: Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort and Spa When: Daily, 9.30am to 9pm How much: AED800 per person / Contact: 04 3995555
Views of the Arabian Gulf serve as the backdrop as the water is peppered with rose petals to welcome guests to an evening of luxury
Talise Spa Step into another world of relaxation with this stunning spa’s Romantic Moonlight Swim. This special experience, designed especially for two, provides access to Burj Al Arab’s infinity pool and the chance to take a dip perched 150 metres above the city. Sensational views of the Arabian Gulf serve as the backdrop as the water is peppered with rose petals to welcome guests to an evening of luxury. Champagne and strawberries are served during the session, which also includes a his-and-hers one-hour aromatherapy massage for complete relaxation. At the end of this heavenly experience, plush personalised Burj Al Arab bathrobes are presented as a reminder of this once-ina-lifetime experience. Where: Burj Al Arab / When: Daily, 9.15am to 9pm How much: AED7,000 per person / Contact: 04 3017365
74
CONC_DXB_EXPERIENCE_SPAS_FEB14_V2_RG.indd 74
21/01/2014 11:30
Untitled-7 1
21/01/2014 10:42
Taste BiCE R istorante
A mixture of traditional and modern Italian cuisine sets the scene for an outstanding meal at this award-winning restaurant at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort. BiCEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quintessential Brunch brings a touch of class to the experience. Savour a four-course menu of Italian classics such as insalata caprese, calamari fritti, rocksalted sea bass and choice of fresh seafood. Contact: 04 3182520
76
CONC_DXB_TASTE OPENER_Bice_FEB14.indd 76
21/01/2014 11:28
77
CONC_DXB_TASTE OPENER_Bice_FEB14.indd 77
21/01/2014 11:29
GETTY IMAGES
78
CONC_DXB_TASTE_VALENTINES DINING FEB14_V2_KA.indd 78
23/01/2014 11:24
va l e n t i n e ’ s d i n i n G/ T A S T E
A perfect setting treat that special someone to a memorable meal at one of the Uae’s most distinctive valentine’s day venues Words by
rachel Ingram
As February 14 looms the pressure is on for couples to find a dining destination worthy of the annual occasion. Fortunately, the UAE’s culinary scene is brimming with distinctive venues that will set this Valentine’s Day apart and make it an experience to remember for years to come. With so many fantastic gourmet options available, the location and setting become top priorities to ensure that the evening is picture perfect from arrival to dessert. From authentic Arabian fare in a private majilis on the beach to an underwater experience alongside a giant aquarium or even a Parisian-style fine dining feast of French delicacies overlooking the monumental Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, visitors can choose from an endless supply of romantic restaurants complete with Valentine’s Day packages to allow diners to make the most of the experience. Concierge presents some of the best options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, guaranteed to set the right mood on the most romantic night of the year.
79
CONC_DXB_TASTE_VALENTINES DINING FEB14_V2_KA.indd 79
23/01/2014 11:24
T A ST E/va len tin e’s dininG
Bord Eau Alongside their widely acknowledged expertise in gastronomic fare, the French have a reputation as connoisseurs of the art of romance. Where better, then, than gourmet eaterie Bord Eau to take a loved one on Valentine’s Day to indulge in the very best of French cuisine in a sophisticated setting complete with excellent service and sweeping views of the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Inside, this restaurant is the epitome of classic Parisian chic - chandeliers hang from the ceiling, paintings of ballerinas in the style of Degas adorn the walls and draped curtains frame windows that offer beautiful views over the marina. Choose from an à la carte menu of meticulously crafted dishes. Alternatively, diners can opt for the blind tasting selection and place themselves in the capable hands of Bord Eau’s head chef, Cyril Calmet. To complete the picture, a live band will be on site to enhance the experience with romantic instrumentals for diners on February 14. Where: Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi When: 6.30 to 11.30pm / Contact: 02 5098511
Perched on stilts out to sea, the restaurant is approached by walking down the long wooden pier. Once seated, diners look out over panoramic views of Burj Al Arab Pierchic Gourmet seafood in a stunning mid-ocean setting is already a winning combination but a meal at this five-star eaterie goes over and above expectations. Perched on stilts out to sea, the restaurant is approached by walking down the long wooden pier. Once seated, diners look out over panoramic views of Burj Al Arab and those on deck enjoy a front-row seat to the evening’s firework displays. With a location so spectacular, romance is all but inevitable. For those inclined, the restaurant is well
versed in making extra arrangements to create a perfect proposal scenario - many an engagement ring has been found in the bottom of a glass of bubbly here. Complement the experience with chef de cuisine, Rosalind Parsk’s special menu featuring Scottish salmon, French oysters, Greek sea bass and many other marine-themed delicacies. Where: Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai When: 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 3666730
80
CONC_DXB_TASTE_VALENTINES DINING FEB14_V2_KA.indd 80
23/01/2014 11:25
Untitled-2 1
20/01/2014 09:15
T A ST E/va len tin e’s dininG
BBQ Al Qasr Nothing says romance like an evening walk on the beach, so how about dinner in a private majlis by the sea in front of the majestic Emirates Palace hotel? BBQ Al Qasr makes the most of its idyllic beach location with excellent cuisine and an exotic yet tranquil ambience. Candlelight from torches casts shadows on the sand and waves crash gently against the shore nearby as guests dine on freshly grilled meats and succulent seafood from the romantically themed tasting menu.
Finish off the intimate evening with bottles of bubbly on ice or add some local touches and order an aromatic shisha for two. A serene alternative to smart indoor restaurants, this casual venue provides al fresco dining at its most atmospheric. Book one of two private dining tables and enjoy total seclusion with nothing but the stars for company. Where: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi When: 7pm to midnight / Contact: 02 6907999
At.mosphere The famous fine-dining restaurant and lounge situated on level 122 of Burj Khalifa ticks many Valentine’s Day boxes. Unbeatable views, excellent cuisine and a distinctive setting make this trendy spot a must-visit destination, particularly for those looking to create a memorable February 14. The sleek décor is complemented by a well thought-out menu featuring tender prime cuts, fresh seafood and European delicacies. Live music contributes to the contemporary tone and those looking to customise their evening can book the restaurant’s private dining room and enjoy the advantages of eating out in a personalised environment. Complete the evening by visiting the lounge for postdinner drinks and explore the venue’s excellent cellar complete with a wide selection of vintage wines. Where: Burj Khalifa, Dubai When: 6.30 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 8883444
82
CONC_DXB_TASTE_VALENTINES DINING FEB14_V2_KA.indd 82
23/01/2014 11:25
083_CONC DXB FEB 14_Sofitel The Palm_FP.pdf
1
23/01/2014
19:14
T A ST E/va len tin e’s dininG
Skylite Lounge For an alternative experience devoid of the usual Valentine’s Day excess, enjoy an evening at Skylite Lounge. Situated atop the iconic Yas Viceroy hotel, this stylish dining venue offers a striking setting complete with a ceiling that changes colour and sweeping views of Yas Marina, the Arabian Gulf and the Abu Dhabi skyline. Lounge with your partner on comfortable red sofas or hire a private cabana and wash gourmet snacks and tapas down with refreshing signature cocktails as resident DJ Anya entertains with chilled-out house music. Where: Yas Viceroy, Abu Dhabi When: 6pm to 1am / Contact: 02 6560600
Every aspect of Ossiano, from the lavish décor to the grand spiral staircase entrance is designed to create an air of opulence
Ossiano As distinctive settings go, Ossiano is definitely a cut above. Set alongside the Ambassador Lagoon, an award-winning aquarium containing over 65,000 marine animals, this five-star restaurant features a floor-toceiling glass wall giving guests the feeling of being underwater as they dine just feet away from hundreds of species of fish, rays and sharks. The fine-dining establishment was opened by three-Michelin-star chef Santi Santamaria, so diners can expect nothing but the best when it comes to the cuisine. Naturally, seafood is the speciality and the menu offers a range of degustation options for guests who want to go for an all-inclusive gastronomic experience. The venue certainly lends itself to elaborate dining. Every aspect of Ossiano, from the lavish décor to the
grand spiral staircase entrance is designed to create an air of opulence which, coupled with low-level lighting and the tranquil blue glow of the tank, creates the perfect setting for an evening of romance. Where: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai When: 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 4262626
84
CONC_DXB_TASTE_VALENTINES DINING FEB14_V2_KA.indd 84
23/01/2014 11:25
Eastern promise A host of exceptional Chinese restaurants create a rich dining dynasty in Dubai
As a new year in the Chinese calendar begins, it’s an ideal time to explore the exotic flavours of the country’s wonderful culinary landscape. Unique ingredients and enticing aromas are hallmarks of authentic Chinese cooking. From region to region, the vast nation boasts incredibly varied and vibrant culinary traditions. Dishes range from hot and spicy to sublimely sweet while adventurous taste combinations and stand-out signature dishes ensure there is something to please every palate. The centuries’ old cuisine boasts a long and illustrious history. Indeed, the first act of many early emperors was to appoint a head chef to court. A key characteristic of the first incarnations of Chinese cuisine was a commitment to intense flavour. This discipline still defines dishes today. Chinese chefs are masters of spices and seasonings such as garlic, soy sauce and ginger which add brilliant bursts of flavour to rice, meat, fish and noodles. Colour, aroma and texture are also crucial when crafting a Chinese meal intended to be a true feast for the senses.
86
CONC_DXB_TASTE_Chinese dining_FEB14.indd 86
21/01/2014 11:26
yuan, atlantis the palm, dubai
chi n e s e d i n i n g/ T A S T E
87
CONC_DXB_TASTE_Chinese dining_FEB14.indd 87
21/01/2014 11:26
T A ST E/chin es e din ing
The roots of Chinese cooking are very much a ref lection of this multi-faceted nation and its development. Each one of China’s 22 provinces are rich in individual culture and bear unique characteristics borne of their locations from coastal locales and mountainous regions to sprawling cities. Dishes from Sichuan are notoriously hot and spicy, often making use of the particularly fiery Sichuan peppercorn. Cantonese variants from Hong Kong and the nation’s lush southern districts are possibly the most recognised worldwide with dim sum and rice rolls taking centre stage. Offerings from the coastal region of Fujian feature a combination of seafood and woodland ingredients such as bamboo shoots and mushrooms. Meanwhile, the capital, Beijing, is known the world over for its signature Peking duck which is an important fixture on any Chinese menu. Here in Dubai an impressive selection of restaurants awaits to impress with authentic dishes from across China. Contemporary flair meets local flavour in exceptional creations that remain faithful to traditional roots. Chic settings add to the experience where inspirations from China of old and new are blended in elegant décor. “I think the Chinese dining scene in Dubai has great potential for both an international and Chinese audience. The number of quality Chinese restaurants is increasing and my aim is to lead the way in educating people about authentic and delicious Cantonese food,” says Lai Kam Pui, executive Chinese chef at fine-dining restaurant Shang Palace at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai.
1
“Chinese diners are extremely proud of their local and national cuisine. The atmosphere and environment must be comfortable, the service hospitable and humble and the food must be fresh and of good quality. I believe what makes Shang Palace special is our emphasis on authentic cuisine. Shang Palace is the signature restaurant throughout the group and is recognised, particularly in China, as producing traditional Cantonese cuisine. Our aim is for guests to expect a dining experience in Dubai that rivals even the finest eateries in China,” says Kam Pui. As one of Dubai’s foremost destinations for Chinese food, Shang Palace showcases traditional Cantonese cuisine and provincial specialties in a chic, modern setting. Delicious dishes are
crafted with meticulous attention to detail and beautifully presented. Specialities served here include Peking duck and succulent wok-fried beef tenderloin with black pepper sauce. A special dim sum menu is another star attraction, peppered with divine dumplings such as delicate siew mai, tasty steamed chicken dumplings with crab roe topping and fresh feng yan prawn dumplings with tobiko fish roe. For Kam Pui, sourcing only the very best ingredients for each and every dish is at the heart of the philosophy at Shang Palace. He explains: “Firstly, I go to the local market to source the freshest ingredients, which will then become the inspiration for a new seasonal dish. I visit the local markets for all of my main ingredients; the fish market, the fruit and vegetable
1 Herb chicken, Shang Palace 2 Pan-fried beef tenderloin in black pepper sauce, Shang Palace 3 Dining room, Shang Palace
2
3
88
CONC_DXB_TASTE_Chinese dining_FEB14.indd 88
21/01/2014 11:26
# S C R AT C H M AT C H G E T R E A DY TO WIN E V E RY TIM E YOU D IN E AT TH E R A D I S S O N B LU HOTEL, D UBAI D E IR A CREEK FROM JAN UA RY 15 - MA RCH 15, 2014 FOR M O RE INFORMAT IO N, P LE A SE C A LL 04- 205 7333 /7 4 4 4 O R VISIT W WW.DINING DUB A IC REE K .CO M
`
j
v
`j
jv
`v
v
h
RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK Bani Yas Road, 476 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 205 7333 infocenter.dxbza@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaideiracreek
Untitled-6 1
22/01/2014 12:19
T A ST E/chin es e din ing
market, the spice market and I visit our meat suppliers regularly. I believe in visiting them personally to choose the best ingredients for my guests and to ensure consistent quality and freshness for my menus. “Next, I combine the ingredients using my knowledge of traditional Cantonese cooking methods but I will use my creativity and training in culinary arts to bring out the characteristics of the fresh ingredients in a new and innovative way. My home town is Shunde, in the Canton region of China. Growing up, my mother taught me the local recipes passed down to her through the generations; in the Canton region we are very proud of our local cuisine,” explains Kam Pui. Another of the city’s stand-out Chinese dining destinations is The China Club, a favourite among visitors and residents alike. Whether guests opt for the elegant dining room or art-filled private room, The China Club leaves a lasting impression. An expert team in the kitchen consists of no less than 11 master chefs working to craft an impeccable blend of traditional and contemporary dishes on the á la carte menu. A fusion of traditional and modern China is presented here in an array of mouth-watering dishes from the country’s provinces.
5
4
4 The China Club, Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek 5 & 6 Yuan, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai has brought a luxurious yet authentic touch with new venue Yuan, where audacious style meets traditional Sichuan cuisine. Plush furnishings and authentic Chinese décor ensure the stage is set for a stellar meal
6
An exciting collection of new restaurants has further enhanced Dubai’s Chinese dining offering. Atlantis The Palm, Dubai brings a luxurious yet authentic touch with new venue Yuan, where audacious style and traditional Sichuan cuisine is served. Plush furnishings and authentic Chinese décor ensure the stage is set for a stellar meal. Diners can choose to be seated in an Oriental inner courtyard designed using Chinese Feng Shui elements of harmony and balance. As an alternative, the Principal House boasts warm interiors intended to be reminiscent of dining halls built for Chinese nobility. The Peking duck comes with all the traditional trimmings and is a sensational dish, while lobster noodles are fresh and full of flavour. For an extra-special touch, Yuan offers a traditional Chinese tea ceremony prepared by Dubai’s first Kung Fu tea master.
90
CONC_DXB_TASTE_Chinese dining_FEB14.indd 90
23/01/2014 11:30
Brunch on a whole new level. ICHO introduces Friday brunch, elevated.
A sensory journey awaits you at ICHO. Savour traditional Japanese cuisine, enjoy the latest hits, and take in breathtaking views at the highest Japanese restaurant in Dubai. Make a reservation now to experience brunch like never before. 295 AED, includes soft drinks and mocktails 395 AED, includes House and Japanese beverages We offer all our guests a welcome drink.
Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Sheikh Zayed Rd. Dubai, UAE +971 4 308 0550 rric.royaldubai@radissonblu.com radisson.com/royal-dubai Follow us on: RadissonRoyalDubai RadissonRoyal
Untitled-6 1
23/01/2014 15:56
T A ST E/chin es e din ing
Also recently opened on Palm Jumeirah is Ba¯ Restaurant and Lounge at Fairmont The Palm, Dubai where the finest Chinese flavours are given a contemporary twist. The culinary team at Ba¯ is representative of the country’s eight regions while the restaurant’s name translates as the number eight in Chinese, which signifies luck, prosperity and wealth. A signature dish to look out for here is double king bi fong tong. Originally invented by Hong Kong fishermen and named after a typhoon shelter, it consists of fried king crab and king prawn served beneath a bed of spicy and salty deep-fried garlic scallions. In a fresh touch, Ba¯ also offers a tempting tapas menu which consists of eight mouthwatering dishes. One of the world’s most successful Chinese restaurant concepts is undoubtedly Hakkasan, founded in London in
7
7 Ba¯ Restaurant and Lounge 8 Ho Chee Boon 9 & 10 Hakkasan Dubai
8
B o o k a ta B l e : Shang Palace, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai, 04 4052703 The China Club, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, 04 2057033 Yuan, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, 04 4262626 Ba¯, Fairmont The Palm, Dubai, 04 4573338 Hakkasan, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, 04 3848484
9
10
2001 and now boasting venues around the world. In Dubai, the restaurant is located in Jumeirah Emirates Towers where fresh flavours of the Orient are presented to a discerning clientele. Gastronomic treats to look forward to include Peking duck with Royal Beluga caviar, steamed dim sum platters and grilled wagyu beef with king soya sauce. “We provide very good food and very good service. Our food is the strength, everything boils down to that. We give guests an excellent experience with the wine selection, the design of the
restaurant and its charm,” says Ho Chee Boon, Hakkasan’s international executive chef. He adds: “Chinese cuisine is all about flavour and healthy eating. Hakkasan offers very traditional Cantonese cuisine. I want to bring Hakkasan to new places and I want my customers to enjoy more of the cuisine. “Dubai is a growing and very beautiful city. I think the market is good for new restaurants coming here. The Chinese dining scene here in Dubai is going to grow.”
92
CONC_DXB_TASTE_Chinese dining_FEB14.indd 92
23/01/2014 12:11
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
MY
K
The perfect blend
1
For a true taste of local life savour a delicious Arabic coffee Caramel-coloured beans bubble on the stove at just the right temperature before the dark frothy liquid is poured into a highly polished jug. A distinct aroma fills the air as Arabica beans fuse with cardamom to form a special blend. As the coffee is poured into traditional finjaan cups, a sense of ceremony surrounds the occasion. More than a symbol of Emirati warmth and hospitality, Arabic coffee, also known as khaleeji, is revered as an important reminder of local traditions and time gone by. Coffee was first popularised in the Arab world where warm conditions were ripe for cultivating beans. The social aspect of gathering to enjoy the drink soon made the activity central to community life here, long before coffee drinking caught on in Europe. The first cultivation of coffee was in Yemen where it was given the Arabic name qahwa
2
from which the words coffee and cafĂŠ both derive. Mystics in Yemen initially used coffee to improve concentration. By 1414 the practice of drinking coffee had spread throughout the Middle East. A warming drink to comfort in cool night-time desert temperatures, Bedouin cooked coffee in copper pots on beds of coal in the sand over an open fire. Retaining much of the same method, ground beans are to this day boiled rather than filtered or percolated and served in small cups intended to be enjoyed straight away. Arabic coffeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive taste comes from the addition of spices such as saffron and cardamom, which can give the drink a green hue. The beans, lighter in colour than American or European varieties, are lightly roasted and ground with cardamom before being boiled for around 15 to 20 minutes. Additional blends are infused with saffron, cloves or rose water to offer alternative flavours. Once boiled on the stove in a copper pot known as a kezveh, the coffee is transferred to a copper pot or jug known as a dallah which is often characterised by a long spout.
94
CONC_DXB_TASTE_LOCAL FLAVOUR_(JULY13) FEB14.indd 94
23/01/2014 10:00
L OCA L FL A V OUR/ t a s t e
An example of the dallah’s elegant shape can be seen on the one dirham coin which bears an image of the jug–a further testament to the importance of Arabic coffee within local culture. The drink is then served in small cups known as finjaan which are poured a quarter full. The coffee is then intended to be enjoyed straight away without stirring so the liquid rising to the top can be savoured first. Arabic coffee is rarely served with milk or sugar to allow the strength of flavour to come through. Instead a sweet side offering such as dates often accompanies the drink. A cornerstone of the famous Emirati hospitality, Arabic coffee is normally offered to guests visiting a home here. Etiquette requires at least one cup is taken from the host who will pour the coffee as guests are warmly welcomed. It is polite to drink
3
More than a symbol of emirati warmth and hospitality, arabic coffee, also known as khaleeji, is revered as an important reminder of local traditions and times gone by
4
1 Bedouin brewing a pot of Arabic coffee the traditional way 2 Flowing conversation goes hand in hand with the Arabic coffee experience 3 The coffee is served from a jug known as a dallah 4 Dates often accompany coffee
REGIONAL BLENDS Arabic coffee comes from the Arabica bean which originates from the Coffea tree found in the mountains of Yemen. A variety of blends and brewing styles have originated throughout the Middle East. Turkish coffee is the thicker darker drink and is usually a lot stronger with foam on top and grounds at the bottom. Turkish coffee is also often served sweetened. Saudi Arabian blends, known as Al-Qahwa tend to be very strong and are recognisable by a green hue. Emirati coffees tend to have a strong, bitter flavour with cardamom or rose water added and is never sweetened. Dates are served alongside instead.
from a cup held in the right hand. A circular swirl of the cup is usually considered as an indication that you have finished. Arabic coffee is also served at social gatherings, business meetings and during special occasions such as Ramadan during iftar, the meal that breaks the fast each day. A traditional dallah coffee pot makes a wonderful memento from a visit to Dubai and the city’s souks and malls have a beautiful selection to choose from. There are also plenty of opportunities for visitors to Dubai to enjoy an authentic Arabic coffee with a host of traditional cafés, souks and even shopping malls offering the chance to enjoy the delicious drink. Some of the city’s finest hotels offer a chic setting in which to relax with a delicious local coffee. Al Bayt at The Palace Downtown Dubai presents a truly palatial Arabian atmosphere with breathtaking panoramas of the lake and The Dubai Fountain. This is a wonderful venue to taste some of the heavenly blends on offer. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is the city’s oldest quarter filled with examples of traditional architecture and as such, is a special space to soak up some of the region’s character. Explore the many art cafés and restaurants to be found among some of the city’s oldest buildings and wind towers. Sit back and watch the world go by as you linger over a delightful local blend of traditional Arabic coffee.
95
CONC_DXB_TASTE_LOCAL FLAVOUR_(JULY13) FEB14.indd 95
23/01/2014 10:00
Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com
Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.
FEbRuaRY 2014 | issuE 114
FEbRuaRY 2014 | issuE 114
l u x u rdubai y edition F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E JaNuaRY 2014 | issue 113
dECEmbEr 2013 | issuE 112
T H E
dECEmbEr 2013 | issuE 112
dubai edition
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
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 ZNOVEMbER I N E2013 | issuE 111
dubai edition du
l u x u r y
OctOber 2013 | issue 110
dubai edition
T H E
T H E OctOber r 2013 | issue 110
JaNuaRY aNuaRY 2014 | issue 113
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
M A G A Z I N E
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r
M A G A Z I N E
F I V E - S T A r
V I S I T O r
F I V E - S T A r
l u x u r y
In association with IWC Schaffhausen, official engineering partner of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula OneTM Team
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone
CONCIERGE AUH Advert.indd 1
23/09/2013 16:57
l u x u r y
l u x u r y
l u x u r y
T H E Concierge DXB - October 2013 - COVER.indd 1
T H E T H E
F I V E - S T A r
F I V E - S T A r
l u x u r y
T H E
T H E
Concierge DXB_COVER_FEB14.indd 1
___Concierge DXB_COVER_JAN14.indd 1
23/01/2014 11:52
07/01/2014 13:20
23/01/2014 11:58
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
097_THE GUIDE OPENER_DXB.indd 97
21/01/2014 12:00
Shop
From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shoppers' dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets
Malls
THE WalK aT JUMEIRaH BEaCH REsIDENCE
04 3900091
Though not a mall, this picturesque 1.7km-long beachside shopping promenade, is home to nearly 200 retailers including Boots, Boutique One, Zadig et Voltaire and Aiyanna of London. The views are also stunning.
Dubai DUBaI MaRINa Mall
04 4361000
Spread over four levels, the mall is home to 160 stores dedicated to fashion, jewellery and home furnishings with waterfront dining and a children’s area.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to
10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1
IBN BaTTUTa Mall
04 3621900
Inspired by the Arab traveller Ibn Battuta, the mall is home to designer shops, Woolworths and a multi-screen cinema complex.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am
to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1
Mall OF THE EMIRaTEs
04 4099000
Find the world’s largest indoor ski slope nestled among 350 shops, children’s entertainment areas and a cinema.
Timings: Sun to Wed
10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B2
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to 1am Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1
Downtown Dubai 19TH CENTURy aNTIqUEs
04 3887000
CITyWalK, JUMEIRaH
04 5114671
One of Dubai's newest shopping areas, this charming al fresco mall offers chic boutiques and stores.
Timings: 10am to10pm weekdays,10am to midnight weekends. Metro: Business Bay Map reference: C1 GaTE VIllaGE, DIFC
04 3622222
Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre, Gate Village is home to a range of high-end stores.
laMCy PlaZa
04 3359999
Timings: Contact outletMetro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to midnight. Thu to Sat 10 to 1am Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2
A mix of brands caters to the needs of the entire family with stores such as Bhs, Camaeiu, The Body Shop and Rivoli Watches.
MERCaTO
04 3198999
04 3444161
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm. Metro: Business Bay Map reference: D1
BURJUMaN
OasIs CENTRE
An elegant mall featuring 50 premium boutiques and fine-dining restaurants spread over two floors.
04 3520222
This mall is one for label lovers with Saks Fifth Avenue, Chanel, Dior, Versace, Kenzo, Ralph Lauren, Furla and more.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1
Buying time Dubai is peppered with world-renowned shopping malls and those in the market for a bit of retail therapy should direct their attention to Mall of the Emirates, which offers a large selection of designer brands including Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Burberry (pictured). The mall is also home to Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski slope. For details visit malloftheemirates.com
4
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1
A stunning selection of antique paintings, furntiure and sculpture at this magnificent space in Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers.
BOUlEVaRD aT JUMEIRaH EMIRaTEs TOWERs
1
A Renaissance-styled mall on Jumeirah Beach Road with a wide variety of brands such as Pandora, Gant and Virgin Megastore.
3
04 5154000
This four-storey mall spans 134,000 sq m and houses 77 stores, including Carrefour Express and Fun City.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz or Business Bay Map reference: C2
1&7. The Dubai Mall 2. The Gold Souk 3. Aigner boutique 4. Graff Diamonds 5. Tissot watches 6. BurJuman Mall 8. Khan Murjan, Wafi Mall
PalM sTRIP
04 3461462
Get some beach action before browsing the shops at Palm Strip – a two-storey open mall with designer shops and restaurants.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 1.30 to 10pm Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1 THE DUBaI Mall
800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)
The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. In addition to over 1,200 shops, this mall is home to an Olympicsized ice rink and aquarium.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 THE VIllaGE
04 3494444
A selection of boutiques such as s*uce and Candella, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.
98
LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB FEB14.indd 98
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1
7
21/01/2014 12:10
t he gui d e / s hop
2
TIMES SQUARE
04 3418020
A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion
SouK ShoPPiNg
Timings: Sat to Wed
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
10am to 10pm. thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2 WAFI
MIRDIF CITY CENTRE
04 3244555
5
DUBAI OUTLET MALL
This Egyptian-themed shopping haven has over 200 designer stores with 1,000 fashion brands including Miss Sixty, Chanel and Escada.
800 6422
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: e2
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: e3
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
Dubai Festival City/Deira
06 5316611
Located in Sharjah, the mall is best for lifestyle shopping with sporting goods, toys, cosmetics, jewellery and home furnishings from leading retailers.
AL GHURAIR CITY
Timings: Sun to tue 10am
04 2225222
to 10pm. Wed, thu Sat 10am to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya
With 200 retail outlets, Dubai’s first mall offers a great range of value fabrics, alongside high-street favourites.
Timings: Sat to Wed10am to 10pm. thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: union Square Map reference: e1
SOUkS
ARABIAN CENTRE
Home to more than 200 fashion, perfume, homefurnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.
Timings: Sun to Wed
10am to 10.30pm. thu and Sat 10am to 11.30pm Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3 DEIRA CITY CENTRE
04 2954486
Great for bargains, this popular mall features well-known brands such as Debenhams, Benetton, Shoemart and Next.
8
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
For an authentic slice of uAe life, take a trip to one of dubai’s many souks where authentic souvenirs, spices, perfumes and fabrics await. undoubtedly one of the most famous is the gold souk which glitters with an array of gilded wares. the spice souk is a delight for the senses with herbs and spices spilling out of sacks and baskets at every turn. Meander through the perfume souk where knowledgeable sellers will offer advice on their fragrant wares. Why not take a trip to the fabric souk which is another must-visit traditional market where bales of cotton and silk from this region, the orient and beyond are piled high. dubai’s souks are located in and around the banks of dubai Creek and close to the city’s oldest quarter, Al Fahidi historical Neighbourhood.
Major credit cards are accepted in most shops and outlets. there are many AtMs around the city and foreign currencies and travellers’ cheques can be exchanged in licensed exchange offices, hotels and banks. A passport is required.
SOUk MADINAT JUMEIRAH
04 3668888
Featuring 75 boutique shops and craft stalls set in a bazaar environment overlooking the scenic waterways of the adjacent hotel complex.
Timings: daily 10am to 11pm Metro: Mall of the emirates Map reference: B1 SpICE SOUk Brimming with sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the spice souk is a feast for the senses.
Timings: daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: union Square Map reference: e1 TExTILE SOUk Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.
04 2845555 6
iN the KNoW
ARTS & CRAFT SOUk
04 3418020
Located in Times Square shopping mall, this small market sells handcrafted jewellery, accessories and contemporary UAE art.
Timings: daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: e1
MARkETS
Timings: Noon to 7pm every
second Friday of the month Metro: First gulf Bank Map reference: C2
GOLD SOUk Comprising more than 300 retailers, this traditional souk is one of Dubai’s oldest trading areas and one of its biggest attractions.
Timings: daily 7am to noon and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: union Square Map reference: e1 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
COMMUNITY ARTS MARkET
800 33232
Open every first Friday of the month, this market held in Dubai Festival City, brings together artists and craftsmen. This is the place to shop for works of art.
Timings: Fri 10am to 8pm Map reference: e2 COVENT GARDEN MARkET DUBAI
050 4250543
Browse more than 100 boutiques before admiring views of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and The Dubai Fountain.
Artisans from across the emirate congregate at this market, located in The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence, to sell their wares which range from souvenirs from the region to one-off pieces of art.
Timings: Sat to thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj dubai Map reference: d2
Timings: Wed and thu 5pm to midnight. Fri and Sat 10am to 9pm Map reference: A1
SOUk AL BAHAR
04 3627011
label stable aigner, TDM, MOE alexander McQueen FA, MOE armani Collezioni BV, FA balenciaga BV, MOE bally TDM boutique 1 MOE, TW brioni FA, MOE bugatti BJ, MOE, Wafi bulgari BV, MOE, TDM burberry BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Calvin Klein BJ, FA, Wafi Calvin Klein Underwear DCC, DFC, MOE Carolina Herrera FA, MOE Cartier BJ, BV, MOE, TDM Cerruti 1881 Wafi Chanel BJ, FA, Wafi Christian lacroix BJ Christian louboutin FA, MOE Chloé FA Dior BJ, FA, MOE Dunhill DFC, TDM DKNY BJ, MOE, TDM Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE elie saab FA emporio armani BV, MOE, FA ermano scervino TDM ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi etro TDM, MOE, BJ etoile la boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio armani BV, MOE, TDM Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo boss BJ, FA, MOE John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA, MOE Kenzo BJ, FA lancel TDM lanvin BV, FA louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi Prada BJ, MOE, TDM Ralph lauren BJ, FA, MOE Roberto Cavalli FA, MOE, Wafi Rocco barocco DMM, TDM, Wafi salvatore Ferragamo BJ, FA, MOE saks Fifth avenue BJ stella McCartney FA, MOE tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Van Cleef & arpels TDM, MOE Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Yves saint laurent BV, MOE, TDM bJ BurJuman (04 3520222) bV Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 3198999) DCC Deira City Centre, (04 2954486) DFC Dubai Festival City, (04 2325444) DMM Dubai Marina Mall, (04 4361000) Fa Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422) MOe Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747) tDM The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) tW The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 3900091) Wafi Wafi Mall (04 3244555)
99
LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB FEB14.indd 99
21/01/2014 12:10
Discover
1
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 eteMaD
shOWCase gallery
Exhibits striking artwork that features in museums and international collections.
Located at Alserkal Avenue, Showcase was one of the first galleries to be established in the UAE in the 1990’s and has a venerable reputation with art collectors and designers.
04 3468649
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm; Sat noon to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 gallery isaBelle VaN DeN eyNDe
1X1 art gallery
04 3411287
Located in Al Quoz, this established gallery showcases international mixed media and is a big favourite with Dubai's budding art scene.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 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 3235052
Local and international artists exhibit at this well-known gallery in the Al Serkal district
greeN art gallery
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm.
The oldest gallery in Dubai, the Green Art Gallery showcases contemporary art with a focus on regional work.
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.
04 3469305
laWrie shaBiBi
04 3469906
Founded by the former head of sales of Christie’s Middle East and the former MD of Art Dubai, the gallery showcases works by regional artists.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am
04 3536233
ayyaM gallery
04 4392395
the MOJO gallery
04 3477388
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm; Closed Fri Map reference: C2
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 6pm, Sat 11am to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: D1
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2
Mojo focuses on contemporary exhibitions of original paintings, conceptual photography, digital media prints, illustrations, video art, installation pieces and sculptures.
04 3230820
A contemporary gallery displaying the works of international and local talent in the Dubai International Financial Centre.
04 3790940
MaJlis gallery
This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am
the PaViliON DOWNtOWN DUBai
04 4477025
Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Map reference: D2 the thirD liNe
04 3411367
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
to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1
MarsaM Mattar
Spanning two floors and 10,000 sq m, Total Art specialises in artists and art influenced by the culture of the Middle East.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am
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
to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2 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
04 4250400
An area of 4,000 sq m dedicated to international contemporary art in the heart of Gate Village, DIFC.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm; Sat noon to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 gallery 76
04 3444398
Showcases paintings, sculptures and photography from local emerging and international artists.
Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to 6pm; Thu 9am to 4pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1
100
LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB_FEB14.indd 100
MeeM gallery
04 3477883
One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art.
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat. Map reference: B2
Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.
4
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 XVa gallery
04 3585117
With operations all over the world, the gallery showcases the work of great masters as well as new talent.
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
OPera gallery
1. Palm Jumeirah 2. Spice Souk 3. Jumeirah Mosque 4. Camel racing 5. Dubai Creek
traFFiC
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
04 3230909
3
Closed Fri
Representing some of the Arab world’s leading and emerging artists, Ayyam promotes contemporary Middle Eastern art.
04 3988331
2
PrO art gallery
04 3450900
One of Dubai’s newest art galleries, Pro Art sells some of the most carefully curated contemporary art in the global market.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 2pm to 9pm Map reference: D1 5
21/01/2014 12:11
Untitled-5 1
19/01/2014 14:42
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.
iN the ClOudS
CuLturE
Timings: 7.30pm to 10pm Guide price: From Aed175 CrEEKsiDE LEisurE
Air ALPHA tours
04 2949888
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter. City shuttle services from your hotel are available.
Timings: Flights depart from 10am to 4pm Guide price: City tour Aed1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hour-long tours Aed3,060 per person FALCoN AViAtioN sErViCEs
02 4448866
This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.
Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm daily (except tue) Guide price: Prices start from Aed800 (20 minutes), Aed3,350 for up to six people sEAWiNGs
04 8070708
04 3368406
Hire a dhow with dinner and transfers, plus butler service and enjoy unlimited beverages.
Timings: daily boarding 8.30pm Guide price: Aed200 dinner cruise
Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charters are available.
Timings: daily 8 to 10pm
and 10.30pm to 12.30am. Boarding at 8pm Guide price: Aed160 Map reference: e2 AL MANsour DHoW
04 2057033
This five-star dhow from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers international cuisine, alcoholic beverages and live entertainment.
Timings: daily boarding at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: Aed185 Art MAriNE
04 3388955
Cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and Dubai Creek with Art Marine chartered yachts.
Timings: From 7am into the night Guide price: From Aed750 per hour
MADiNAt tHEAtrE, souK MADiNAt JuMEirAH
Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: Aed175 for an evening dhow cruise
04 3666546
This 442-seat luxury venue hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film.
WoNDErBus
04 3595656
This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up Dubai Creek for an hour-long cruise.
Map reference: B1 sHEiKH MoHAMMED CENtrE For CuLturAL uNDErstANDiNG
Guide price: Aed145
adults; Aed95 children (3-11 years); Aed450 family (two adults and two children)
04 3536666
Traditional Arabian dhows take guests on cruises each evening, with a banquet of food included in the price.
Map reference: B2
Timings: daily boarding at 8pm.
Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From Aed1,325 per person (40 minutes)
04 3243000
Located at Mall of the Emirates, this centre brings together a wide variety of performing and visual arts including drama, dance, opera, comedy and children’s shows.
04 3511117
Land
AL BooM tourist ViLLAGE
04 3414777
DANAt DuBAi CruisEs
Fly from Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in the south west or Dubai Creek in the north east and explore the city from up high.
Water
DuBAi CoMMuNity tHEAtrE & Arts CENtrE (DuCtAC)
JuMEirAH MosQuE tour Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves when visiting the mosque.
Timings: Sat, Sun, tue and thu for one hour from 10am Guide price: Aed10 Map reference: d1 AL FArooQ oMAr BiN AL KHAttAB MosQuE
04 3944448
Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Umm Suqeim is one of only a few mosques in the city open to non-Muslims. Tours run three times a week. Timings: Sat to thu 10.30am. Closed Fri Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: C1 tHE BiG Bus CoMPANy
04 3407709
If your stay in the emirate is short, you might not have time to take in the sights under your own steam. For an organised tour, why not hop aboard a double-decker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck?
Timings: tours depart
every 20 minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide price: day tour – Aed220 adults, Aed100 children, Aed540 family. Night tour – Aed125 adults, Aed75 children, Aed375 family (two adults and two children)
04 3536666
An architectural and engineering marvel that defines the emirate’s ‘anything is possible’ attitude, Burj Khalifa is a high point on anyone’s dubai itinerary. Piercing the cloud cover of the city’s skyline at 828 metres, the impressive building holds several guiness World Records including the world's tallest building as well as tallest freestanding structure and the highest occupied floor of any building. From the outside the Burj Khalifa makes an impression from every single angle but head inside and the views are equally as dramatic. take a trip to the At the top observation deck on level 124 for a unique perspective on the city. entry is through the lower ground level of the dubai Mall and visitors are entertained by a multimedia presentation that chronicles Burj Khalifa’s story before taking the 10-metreper-second elevator journey to the viewing deck. Once there, guests receive an unobstructed 360-degree view of the city, desert and gulf that's arguably unbeatable.
Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE.
Timings: Sun to thu 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide price: Breakfast Aed60, lunch Aed70. Reservations essential Map reference: e1
MusEuMs
heARt OF the COMMuNity A gathering place where communities would come together to trade, to share news and socialise, the souk has been an important part of life in the Middle east for thousands of years. Forefathers of the modern mall concept, myriad stalls and shopping spaces line meandering passages, each offering an assortment of curios and interesting wares. A visit to dubai’s vibrant gold and spice souks in the traditional area of deira provides a fantastic opportunity for authentic buys and a fascinating insight into the city’s true character.
DuBAi MusEuM
sALsALi PriVAtE MusEuM
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.
As the first private museum for contemporary art in the region, this important venue provides a key platform for new and established collectors.
04 3531862
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
04 3809600
Timings: Sun to thu 11am to 6pm. Closed Fri. Sat 1pm to 5pm. Guide price: Admission free Map reference: e1 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: C2
In the know: LoCAL DIALeCt Arabic is the official language of the UAe, although english is widely understood. Using some common Arabic phrases is appreciated: Marhaba – hi or welcome Shukran – thank you Ma’asalama – Goodbye
102
LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB_FEB14.indd 102
21/01/2014 12:11
See Dubai at its finest from the air! Have that memorable experience seeing the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building, the Palm, iconic Burj Al Arab and the historical architecture of Dubai. See the World of Dubai... Book Now!
Heritage Tour 12 minute – 595 aed - feel and see the rich heritage and structures of the historic Dubai
Explorer Tour 22 minute – 895 aed - be captivated with the sceneries of the iconic landmarks of the bustling city of Dubai
Night Lights Tour 22 minute – 1095 aed - witness the beauty of Dubai at night, made possible by the latest light technology, an unforgettable experience
C a l l 8 0 0 F LY o r + 9 7 1 4 2 0 8 1 4 5 5 • t o u r s @ d a w. a e • w w w. h e l i d u b a i . c o m
Helidubai_220x275mm_20nov13.indd 1
11/21/13 9:39 PM
Experience
1
With a vast desert, spectacular coastline and world-class sports facilities, Dubai is full of fun-packed tours and activities
AttrActions
EL MUnDo
050 5517406
Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason)
Timings: From 2:30pm Guide price: Adults
AED250, children AED210 First yAcHt
04 3754148/050 6550313
Cruising
Range of options from speedboat rides to refined electric boat cruises.
Individual hotels and tour operators can also organise pleasure cruises on request
Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED200
AL WAsL crUisinG & FisHinG
oAsis PALM toUrisM
04 2394760
Charter an exclusive yacht and sail past modern icons including Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and The World islands.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED600 per hour Art MArinE
04 3388955
04 2629993/050 7548466
Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.
Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150
Timings: Daily boarding at 7.45pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11pm Guide price: AED350 cLUB MinA
04 3993333
As well as fishing trips, Club Mina offers all kinds of exciting or relaxing cruising options.
Timings: From 6am to 6pm Guide price: From AED3,500 DAnAt DUBAi crUisEs
04 3511117
A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters .
Timings: 8.30am to 11pm Guide price: AED225 DUBAi FErry
800 9090
A novel way to see the city’s sights. Routes include journeys past Palm Jumeirah.
Timings: Daily from 11am Guide price: AED50 DrEAMDAys
800 2080
Take a four-hour catamaran cruise along Dubai’s coastline and enjoy a barbecue lunch as well as snorkelling.
Timings: Every Saturday 8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275
04 2340812
Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available. LAMA DEsErt toUrs & crUisEs Journey to a Bedouin campsite, ride a camel, smoke shisha together with a range of other desert-based activities. nEt toUrs DUBAi
04 2666655
See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.
Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.
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
AED200. Children from AED150 ULtiMAtE cHArtEr
04 3254975/050 1002477
Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along Dubai Marina. Inclusive of buffet, drinks and live entertainment.
Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275 per adult and AED90 per child
04 2629993/050 7548466
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
Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite. trAVco
04 3366643
Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.
Hop aboard the Arabian dhow for a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise.
Flying
Timings: Dinner cruise
at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises
Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices ArABiAn ADVEntUrEs
04 3034888
Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding. ArABiAn DEsErt toUrs
04 2682880
2
oFF roAD ADVEntUrEs
VEnUs FLoAtinG rEstAUrAnt
04 3572200
1. Helidubai 2. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo 3. Yas Viceroy 4. Dubai Marina
04 3357676
oAsis PALM toUrisM
04 2573084
tHE yELLoW BoAts
Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner.
EXtrEME ADVEntUrE DUBAi
sUMMErtiME MArinE
Timings: From 7am Guide price: From
04 3994994
A range of exciting desertbased activities are available such as camel trekking, desert driving and rock climbing.
Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping.
Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24 hours for up to seven people
BAtEAUX DUBAi
04 3572233
per person
Set sail from Jumeirah Beach Hotel and cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Creek.
AED750 per hour
DEsErt rAnGErs toUrs & ADVEntUrE sPorts
3
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
From a Hummer safari taking in an authentic Bedouin camp, to a trek through the Hajar Mountains.
104
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB14.indd 104
4
21/01/2014 18:43
Mystery
Whip up an atmosphere thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electric with anticipation. Stretch out every bite, all the way to the most awaited dessert. Then, with deliciously deliberate finesse, unveil your secret, and watch the room light up.
P.O. Box 30430, Dubai, UAE, T: +971 (0)4 343 8000, F: +971 (0)4 343 5111, towers.dubai@rotana.com
Untitled-1 1
19/01/2014 09:32
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 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
bALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES
SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUb
Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise.
Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semi-automatic paintball guns and the latest anti-fog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED80 includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls
04 2854949
Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per
adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12
Karting (see Sports)
lessons AED960 HELIDUbAI
04 2081455
Enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the sights from a helicopter.
Timings: Call for timings Guide price: From
AED595 person SEAWINGS
04 8832999
Enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the new developments around the city including the Burj Khalifa.
Timings: From 9am to 4pm Guide price: AED1,375 per
person for 40 minutes
ULTIMATE CHARTER
04 3464194
Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.
Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999
Paintballing DUbAI AUTODROME LASER TAG
04 4361400/04 4361422
Hunt down your adversaries in a mock medieval castle with artificial fog, moody lighting and a pumping soundtrack.
Timings: Call for timings Guide price: From
AED80 for 15 minutes
PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND
04 3244755/050 6514583
Go head to head with paintballing opponents in the heart of Dubai city at the Wonderland entertainment complex.
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED80 for two
hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings
06 5487777
Shooting (see Sports)
Skydiving IFLYDUbAI
04 2316292
Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre in Dubai Festival City.
Timings: Daily 9am to 11pm. Price: AED215
Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)
KIDZANIA
IN THE SWING
Swimming with sharks DUbAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Features games, tasks and facilities to test children's limits, help them discover hidden talents and develop skills.
04 4485200
Swim among 33,000 aquatic animals including sharks, giant groupers and stingrays in The Dubai Mall’s 10-million-litre tank.
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child
Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED875 for
non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED675 for certified divers
MAGIC PLANET
800 LEISURE (5347873)
A fun and interactive family-focused amusement centre in Deira City Centre and Mall of the Emirates.
FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free
SKYDIVE DUbAI
Based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, this centre offers tandem skydiving for thrillseeking tourists.
800 28843867
Admire unparalleled views of Dubai in this spectacular tour through the tallest building in the world.
Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to midnight. Thu 8.30am to midnight. Sat 4.30am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED125, children (4 to 12 years) AED95. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400 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.
From world-class water parks to mesmerising aquariums, there is a host of marine adventures to be had in Dubai. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Teeming with creatures of the deep, this award-winning attraction is located at The Dubai Mall. Visitors can gaze at hundreds of brightly coloured fish, rays and sharks. Walk through a viewing tunnel for an incredible view of this underwater world or for an even better perspective, there is the chance to scuba dive inside the vast tank. Aquaventure Waterpark Reignite your sense of adventure with a visit to this sprawling water park where white-knuckle rides, river rapids and a pristine beach await. The recently opened Tower of Poseidon (pictured) boasts heart-pumping water slides and the longest zipline in the Middle East. Wild Wadi Located in front of iconic Burj Al Arab, this fun attraction features Tantrum Alley with two downhill water slides and three tornadoes among the many high-octane rides.
PEEKAbOO! CREATIVE PLAY
Amusements & attractions bURJ KHALIFA ObSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)
WATER WORLD
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. LITTLE ExPLORERS
050 1533222
Timings: From 2pm to dusk Sun to Thu. From 11am to dusk Fri and Sat. Guide price: Adults AED1,750. Cash only
04 4485222
Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD AbU DHAbI
02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com
Ride rollercoasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62m into the air.
Timings: Daily, 11am to 8pm. Guide price: AED235 for
visitors over 1.3m tall, AED195 for visitors below 1.3m. Premium tickets available
04 4297949
Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to seven-year-olds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.
Guide to the greens Golf is one of the most popular activities in the emirate and a host of world-class courses offer an incredible day out on the greens. Emirates Golf Club is one of the city’s best loved spots and hosts the annual Omega Dubai Desert Classic, part of The Race To Dubai each February. The prestigious event sees the club play host to some of the sport’s international greats and the Faldo course is a particular draw all year round with expertly designed greens and the option of golfing at night on the specially floodlit course. Contact: dubaigolf.com Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental Dubai Festival City is an 18-hole, championship golf course featuring an award winning clubhouse, four restaurants and a luxurious spa. Contact: albadiagolfclub.ae
Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED40 per hour SEGA REPUbLIC
04 4488484
Explore five zones and 150 amusement games at the first Sega Republic indoor theme park in the region.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Guide price: Thrill ticket AED 160 Platinum Power Pass AED220 THE DUbAI FOUNTAIN
800 382246255
From the foot of the world's tallest building, watch the world’s tallest dancing fountain shoot jets of water 150 metres into the air in time to music.
Timings: Sat to Thu 1 to 1.30pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm. Friday 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND
04 3243222
Creekside family entertainment village is a great day out for the entire family.
Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 6pm, theme park 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED125 adults, AED115 children, under four AED40 and younger free
106
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB14.indd 106
23/01/2014 15:30
5
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 JAM JAR
04 3417303
Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.
Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to
Marine adventures DOLpHIN bAY
04 4261030
Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual
800 WOWRAK (969725)
Birdwatching
04 4485200
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
Timings: Shows Mon to Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED120 adults; AED80 children
Edutainment
THE LOST CHAMbERS
Timings: Sat to Thu 9am
to 8.30pm, Fri 3 to pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket ENCOUNTER ZONE
04 3247747
Wafi’s adventure playground for kids. Look out for 'Lunarland', 'Galatica' and the skate park.
Timings: Sat to Wed
10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED35 for two hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass
Ice skating (see Sports)
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
04 3241222/04 3243222
Splashland is a fun family water park near the Dubai Creek featuring slides, twisters, a lazy river, water cannons and children’s activity pool.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Combo ticket AED55
Timings: Sun to Thu 1 to 9pm, Fri and Sat noon to 9pm Guide price: AED145 per person
An interactive science and cultural centre.
A sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert.
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.
DUbAI DOLpHINARIUM
04 3340808
ICELAND wATER pARk
DUbAI AQUARIUM & UNDERwATER ZOO
SNOw pENgUINS AT SkI DUbAI Visitors have a rare opportunity to interact with these remarkable birds in a oneof-a-kind encounter.
CHILDREN’S CITY
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
rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach
04 3380201
06 7681888
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.
8pm, Fri 2 to 8pm. Closed Sun Guide price: Prices start at AED85 per canvas
NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE
PARK LIFE
DREAMLAND AQUA pARk
Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED105 adults; AED95 children wILD wADI
04 3369773
Learn more about dolphins, seals and other marine life at this fully air-conditioned dolphinarium.
04 4260000
Discover a maze of underwater halls and tunnels, with 65,000 marine animals swimming at the Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis, The Palm.
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight
Waterparks AQUA pLAY
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Aimed at children from the age of two to eight, Dubai's latest waterpark is both fun and educational.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to
10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Friday 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE
04 4260000
Ride the rapid and shoot down the fastest free-fall slide in the Middle East into a shark-filled lagoon. Located at the Atlantis, The Palm.
Timings: Daily from
10am to sunset Guide price: AED225 for adults, AED180 for children under 1.2 metres
04 3484444
There is a host of beautiful green spaces peppered across Dubai where visitors can enjoy a peaceful oasis in the city. Safa Park This sprawling green space is situated minutes from Dubai’s thriving Business Bay district, close to Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai and The Dubai Mall. The park boasts lakes, cafés and an art library. Dubai Miracle Garden The dreamy landscape of Dubai Miracle Garden offers the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the city. The futuristic garden in the Arabian Ranches area of the city is home to more than 45 million blooms in all shapes and sizes with 45 different varieties of flower on show. Dubai Creek Park Lining the shores of Dubai Creek, in the heart of the city’s historic quarter, is Dubai Creek Park. This verdant oasis is a much loved destination for families who flock to its green spaces on weekends and evenings. More than 80 types of trees and flowers have been planted here, alongside expansive lawns.
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: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED225 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free 6
Golf AL bADIA gOLF CLUb DUbAI FESTIVAL CITY
04 6010111
5. Jebel Ali Golf Resort 6. Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 7. Snorkelling, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
(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 AED460, Fri and Sat AED550 for 18 holes(AED60 cart free added each day) DUbAI CREEk gOLF & YACHT CLUb
04 2956000
(6,800 yards, par-71) The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes and the Creek on at least four holes.
Green fees: Sun to Thu AED695 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes
7
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB14.indd 107
21/01/2014 18:43
8
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
04 3802222
SPORTS
Majlis Course:
(7,211 yards, par-72)
WAFI PhARAOh'S CLUB
Faldo Course:
04 3240000
(6,916 yards, par-73)
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?
The Par Three:
1,239 yards, par-27) Emirates Golf Club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament, but also offers everything from fine dining to bar bites available alongside topnotch pool and gym facilities, tennis courts and a spa.
Green fees: majlis course daily aeD995 for 18 holes. Faldo course sun to thu aeD595 and Fri to sat aeD595 for 18 holes JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA
04 8145555
(3,299 yards, par-36, nine holes) This pretty nine-hole course features wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which roam the fairways.
Green fees: sun to thu aeD160 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 JUMEIRAh GOLF ESTATES
Archery
Timings: sat to thu 6.30am to 10pm, Fri 9am to 9pm Guide price: aeD60 for one hour with an instructor
hATTA FORT hOTEL
ThE WALL
Think you’re Robin Hood? Put your archery skills to the test while taking in the scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.
It's a challenge, but at more than 15 metres high (that's nearly 50 feet), this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.
04 8523211
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
04 3752222
Earth Course:
(6,473 yards, par-72) Fire Course: (6,507 yards, par-72) One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.
Green fees: sun to thu aeD495 and Fri and sat aeD795 for 18 holes ThE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI
04 3905600
(7,396 yards, par-72) One of the most luxurious golf clubs in Dubai, the Colin Montgomeriedesigned course features lakes, landscaped gardens and 81 large bunkers.
Green fees: Daily aeD825 for 18 holes ThE ELS CLUB
04 4251010
(7,538 yards, par-72, 18 holes) Set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, this links-style course offers a challenging round.
Green fees: Daily aeD895 for 18 holes
Climbing
animal encounters one of the most exciting and memorable activities to enjoy in Dubai involves getting up close and personal to a range of exciting creatures. Meet the penguins Dubai aquarium and underwater Zoo has a cutte colony of penguins for visitors to meet. a baby Humboldt penguin has been born at this mesmerising space at the Dubai mall. Feathered friends meet a host of colourful new characters at Dubai Dolphinarium. the fun-filled venue now boasts the uae’s only exotic bird show featuring over 20 species of birds and parrots. learn all about these fascinating feathered friends with informative talks on their natural habitats, social structures, training and conservation issues. Dolphin Bay swim with dolphins and enjoy a once-in-alifetime encounter with these magical creatures. Dolphin Bay at atlantis the Palm, Dubai offers the chance to you can meet and swim with these special mammals.
04 3065061
Timings: sat to thu 2 to 10pm. closed Fri Guide price: aeD90 per hour without an instructor. aeD75 with an instructor
Diving
8. Wild Wadi 9. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai 10. Dubai World Cup
PADI and BSAC approved instruction is available at all levels. Hotels will organise dives on request. Freediving courses are also available.
Guide price: two-day PaDi course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, aeD1,850. Pleasure dives from aeD400
Fishing Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request AL WASL CRUISING & FIShING
04 2950516
Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf.
Timings: call for details Guide price: From aeD500 per person ART MARINE
04 4068825
Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters.
Timings: call for details Guide price: aeD750
9
per hour onwards
DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YAChT CLUB
04 2054646
Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.
Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price:aeD2,000 for
four hours. longer trips are available as required FIRST YAChT
04 3754148/050 6550313 Up to seven people can enjoy a day of fishing.
Timings: 6am onwards Guide price:aeD3,400 for four hours. JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA
04 8145555
Take a group fishing trip and make the catch of the day. Timings: mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: aeD1,750 for four hours on the boat.
10
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB14.indd 109
21/01/2014 18:43
expe r ience/THE GUIDE
no boundaries
11
Mini golf
Sailing
Enjoy the natural desert surrounding in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.
HaTTa ForT HoTeL
deserT ranGers
Fun, cross country golf course and driving range with scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.
Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve.
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: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for mini golf and fun course. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities
050 2514988
JebeL aLi GoLF resorT & sPa
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED4,400 a
Book in for seafishing in southern Oman and stay the night in a lodge.
day for up to four people. AED440 to stay in a lodge
suMMerTiMe Marine
04 2573084
Up to seven people can be accommodated on private fishing trips.
Timings: From 6am to 10am and midday to 4pm Guide price: AED2,500 per hour uLTiMaTe CHarTer
050 1002477
Catch your own lunch on a deep-sea fishing trip.
Timings: From 7am Guide price: From
AED1,800 for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee
04 8836000
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.
Ice skating Cool off and burn a few calories skating around the Olympic-sized ice rink or try your hand at 10-pin bowling.
From show jumping and dressage to desert hacking and stable tours, the club offers a wide range of equestrian experiences.
Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED350 eMiraTes eQuesTrian CenTre
050 5537986/ 050 5587656
A British Horse Society-approved riding and training centre for all abilities. Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing.
Timings: Lessons from 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson
800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by world champion Rod 'Hot Rod' Fuller at the Yas Drag Racing Centre.
riding from AED200
The season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com
04 3618111
draG raCinG
Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert
aL nasr LeisureLand
dubai PoLo & eQuesTrian CLub, arabian ranCHes
Motorsports
THe deserT ranCH
Horseracing
Horseriding
04 8523221
For an exhilarating day out all of the family will enjoy Dubai Autodrome’s Indoor Kartdome offers non-stop fun. The circuit boasts a fleet of leisure karts that deliver an excellent racing experience while ensuring safety at all times. The state-of-theart facility also hosts daily ‘Arrive & Drive’ sessions. contact: 04 4361422
ForMuLa one
02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
Experience the thrill of Formula One, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater.
04 3371234
Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED70 for two
12
hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire dubai iCe rinK
04 4485111
This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.
Mountainbiking Tour operators offer biking trips through the Hajar Mountains, with gear provided. Trips include pickup and lunch on request.
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
Karting
Guide price: AED300 per person for a day’s trip. See Listings for tour operators
Polo
dubai auTodroMe
04 3678744
dubai PoLo & eQuesTrian CLub
The Formula One-standard track on the outskirts of Dubai boasts an outdoor and an air-conditioned kartdrome with hi-tech machines.
04 3618111
The facility includes two polo fields, a riding school and equestrian centre.
Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED115
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details
eMiraTes KarT CenTre
GHanTooT PoLo CLub
050 5592131
The centre at Jebel Ali provides karting for everyone over the age of eight on its one-kilometre track just outside Dubai.
02 5629050
Located on the Dubai to Abu Dhabi highway, watch polo while enjoying a meal in the clubhouse. Nonmembers are welcome.
Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for
Timings: Call for details Guide price: Free of charge.
30 minutes
Call for season information
110
LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB14.indd 110
Learn how to sail or improve your sailing skills with two-day courses or day training in the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Guide price: AED220 dusaiL
050 5517280
Take your pick from five boats that can be chartered for a day or learn to sail yourself.
Guide price: Call for details suMMerTiMe Marine
04 2573084
Set sail on a luxury yacht ranging in size from 50 to 188ft.
Guide price: AED6,400
for four hours
04 8836555
04 2096000
This ice skating rink at the Hyatt Regency Dubai offers professional coaching and fun for the whole family.
04 3941669
Yas raCinG sCHooL
Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Private tuition starts at AED1,500 for private tuition
GaLLeria iCe rinK
dubai oFFsHore saiLinG CLub
Shooting
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.
Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED55 for two hours
Guide price: AED300 per person including transport
Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience 02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae
13
RACE DAY
Timings: See website for availability Guide price: From AED55
11. One & Only Private Spa, One & Only The Palm 12. Dubai Autodrome 13 Ski Dubai 14. Jet skiing
04 3402408
JebeL aLi sHooTinG CLub An indoor and outdoor shooting academy.
Timings: Winter – Wed to Mon 1 to 10pm; summer – Wed to Mon 3pm to midnight Guide price: Outdoor AED220 for 25 shots; indoor AED140 sHarJaH GoLF & sHooTinG CLub
06 5487777
One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.
Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for
.22, AED180 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes
Skiing sKi dubai
800 LEISURE (5347873)
Chill out at the indoor snow park and ski slope, in Mall of the Emirates.
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
Watersports 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
14
21/01/2014 18:43
1
Taste
Superb restaurants, chic cocktail bars and hip nightclubs make Dubai a stylish and sophisticated city for fine food and drink
Hotel outlets & promotions
Al QAsr, mADinAt jumeirAH
AtlAntis tHe pAlm, DuBAi
Umm Suqeim
Palm Jumeirah
04 3668888
For a delicious selection of authentic Thai food, book a table at Pai Thai. Relax and unwind with delicious cocktails at Koubba Bar.
Al BustAn rotAnA
04 2820000 Garhoud
Choices offers a wonderful array of international dishes to enjoy with theme nights throughout the week. Or head to Blue Elephant for the best in Thai cuisine. Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Lebanese Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse
Al GHurAir rAYHAAn BY rotAnA
04 2933000 Deira
Liwan serves a delicious international selection at the Friday Family Brunch with live cooking stations, a dedicated section for children and mocktails, smoothies, shakes and soda pops. From AED165 per person. Liwan – International Shayan – Iranian Yasmin Lounge – Lounge Buzz Deli Cafe – Cafe
Al mAHA Desert resort & spA
04 8329900 Desert
Al Diwaan is a popular gourmet restaurant serving an eclectic selection of international cuisine in a stunning desert setting. Al Diwaan – International
Al mAnzil Hotel
04 4285888
Downtown Dubai One of Dubai's favourite sports bars, Nezesaussi Grill is a lively spot with good food. An inviting atmosphere makes it a great place to relax with friends and family. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi Grill – Sports bar
Al murooj rotAnA – DuBAi
04 3211111
Downtown Dubai Head to Pergolas for fine international fare and delicious seafood served in a sophisticated setting where you can enjoy an array of dishes from every corner of the globe. Or try Zaika Restaurant for a vibrant and authentic taste of Indian cuisine. Alegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Mawal – Lebanese Pergolas – International Zaika Restaurant – Indian
112
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB14.indd 112
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 4260000
With 20 restaurants, bars and lounges brought to you by world-renowned chefs, Atlantis, Dubai is one of the most diverse and iconic culinary destinations in the city. Make your weekend lunch something special with the different flavours and styles at Kaleidoscope. Each venue is unique and, as you’d expect from a five-star venue, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion.
Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian
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 La Brasserie – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Burger Joint – American diner
AnAntArA DuBAi tHe pAlm resort & spA
Auris plAzA Hotel Al BArsHA
Palm Jumeirah
Al Barsha
04 4282000
Jumeirah Beach Residence Brandish your chopsticks at Benihana where the finest Japanese food awaits. For gourmet Italian dishes served in a beautiful setting with views out to the Arabian Gulf you might like to also pay a visit to Rosso.
04 5678888
It doesn't get more romantic than a table for two on the beach so make this dream a reality at The Beach House. On Valentine's Day, savour a four-course set menu of Mediterranean cuisine for AED400 per person or AED500 with a glass of bubbly. Bushman’s Australian Restaurant & Bar – Australian Crescendo – International Mekong – Asian The Beach House - Mediterranean The Lotus Lounge - Lounge
ArABiAn rAncHes Hotel & Golf cluB
04 3663000 Dubai
An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine international food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. For a relaxing evening visit Birdies for some drinks and light bites at this lively sports lounge. Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge
AsiAnA Hotel
04 2387777 Deira
The property’s signature restaurant Sonamu offers fine Korean cuisine and is ideal for those seeking a place to socialise. Also try Lamesa which offers an authentic Filipino dining experience. With a cosy warm ambience and chefs serving a wide selection of dishes, this is an excellent choice for Filipino cuisine.
2
3
04 4554800
This inner city hotel is home to Didon Restaurant, a traditional Arabic eatery, well-known for its Levantine-inspired dishes, warm atmosphere and fantastic service. Didon Restaurant – Arabic
BAB Al sHAms Desert resort & spA
04 8096100 Desert
1. Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire, InterContinental Dubai Festival City 2. Celebrities Restaurant, One&Only Royal Mirage 3. Afternoon tea, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai 4. Blue Flame Restaurant, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel
Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant offers traditional local dishes in a stunning setting. Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq – Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Pizzeria Le Dune – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic tea bar
Burj Al ArAB
04 3017777 Jumeirah
Enjoy the finest in Arabic fare at Al Iwan restaurant where sensational local dishes are offered. The Skyview Bar is a wonderful destination to enjoy a cocktail and breathtaking views out to the Arabian Gulf. Al Iwan – Arabic Al Mahara – European Al Muntaha – International Bab al Yam – International Juna Lounge – Cocktail bar Junsui – Far Eastern Sahn Eddar – Afternoon tea Skyview Bar – Cocktail bar
Hanabi – Japanese Lamesa – Filipino Sea World – Seafood Sonamu – Korean Yuraku – Japanese
4
21/01/2014 18:45
04 4447444
Sheikh Zayed Road Treat your loved one to an evening of Latin flare at Izel on Valentine's Day. After a four-course meal and bubbly, dance the night away to live music from a Colombian band.
dubai Marriott harbour hotel & suites
04 3194000
Dubai Marina The Observatory is one of the most picturesque venues in the city to enjoy a delicious dinner or drinks with a stunning view of the Arabian Gulf.
Izel – Latin American Marco Pierre White Grill – British Purobeach Urban Oasis – Lounge Ballarò – Sicilian Cave – Wine bar
Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International
Courtyard by Marriott, dubai Green CoMMunity
Sheikh Zayed Road
04 8852222
Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet offering an eclectic mix of dishes at Pine Grill international restaurant. Try The Bar for a relaxing evening drink. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina Italian Kitchen – Italian Pine Grill – International Rendezvous – International The Bar – Casual bar
Crowne Plaza dubai
04 3311111
Sheikh Zayed Road Al Dana restaurant offers a wide selection of tasty international dishes and traditional Arabic delicacies. Al Dana – International Al Fresco – Italian Al Tannour – Arabic Harvester’s Pub – English Oscar’s Vine Society – Wine bar Sakura – Japanese Trader Vic's – Polynesian Wagamama – Far Eastern Western Steakhouse – Steakhouse Zinc – Nightclub
Crowne Plaza dubai deira
04 2625555 Deira
Enjoy sumptuous flavours from all over the globe at Spice Island. Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International
Crowne Plaza dubai Festival City
04 7012222
Dubai Festival City
dusit thani dubai
04 3433333
Enjoy the finest in Italian cuisine at PAX which also boasts stunning views across Dubai. Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International
FairMont dubai
04 3325555
Sheikh Zayed Road Gourmet international dishes are the order of the day at Spectrum on One. Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese
FairMont the PalM, dubai
04 4573388
Palm Jumeirah Home to a variety of highend restaurants including Flow Kitchen, Seagrill on 25° Restaurant and Frevo. Ba Restaurant and Lounge – Chinese Frevo - Brazilian Flow Kitchen – International Mashrabiya Lounge – Lounge The Cigar Room – Lounge Seagrill on 25° Restaurant & Lounge - Seafood The Cigar Room - Lounge Delicacy - Deli
Fujairah rotana resort & sPa
09 2449888
Al Aqah Beach
The Belgian Beer Café boasts a hearty selection of fare.
This out-of-town option is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents.
Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International
Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International
dubai Marine beaCh resort & sPa
Grand hyatt dubai
04 3461111 Jumeirah
Located in the heart of Jumeirah, hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd at this vibrant and varied venue with Boudoir, Loca Restaurant and Bar and Sho-Cho hosting regular theme nights to enjoy. Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Lebanese Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian El Malecon – Cuban Flooka – Mediterranean Loca Restaurant & Bar – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai
04 3171234 Oud Metha
Sushi offers an incredible array of contemporary Japanese cuisine in stylish surroundings. Highlights of a newly revamped menu include fresh sushi, tempura and a host of mouthwatering traditional Japanese desserts. Andiamo! – Italian Awtar – Lebanese Cooz – Jazz bar iZ – Indian Manhattan Grill – American Panini – Italian deli and café Peppercrab – Singaporean Sushi – Japanese The Market Café – International Wox – Vietnamese
DINE BY CUISINE ARABIC Mawal – Al Bustan Rotana The Courtyard Restaurant – Al Manzil Hotel Mawal – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Khaymat Al Bahar – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Didon – Auris Plaza Hotel, Al Barsha Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Al Tannour – Crowne Plaza Dubai Sakura – Crowne Plaza Dubai Al Khayma – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Al Qasr – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa The Sushi Café – Fairmont Dubai Awtar – Grand Hyatt Dubai Al Basha – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Shahrzad – Hyatt Regency Dubai Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Al Khaima – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Al Diwan – Metropolitan Palace Hotel Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Café Arabesque – Park Hyatt Dubai The Lounge – Park Hyatt Dubai Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Topkapi – Taj Palace Hotel Na3Na3 – The Address Dubai Mall Al Bayt – The Palace Downtown Dubai Ewaan – The Palace Downtown Dubai Amaseena – The RitzCarlton Dubai
ASIAN Benihana – Al Bustan Rotana Blue Elephant, Al Bustan Rotana Pai Thai – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Benihana – Amwaj Rotana Armani/Hashi – Armani Hotel Dubai Hanabi – Asiana Hotel Yuraku – Asiana Hotel Asia Republic – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Nobu – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Saffron – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Al Iwan – Burj Al Arab Junsui – Burj Al Arab Sho-Cho – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Thai Bistro – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Benjarong – Dusit Thani Dubai Peppercrab – Grand Hyatt Dubai Sushi – Grand Hyatt Dubai Wox – Grand Hyatt Dubai Toshi – Grand Millennium Dubai Buddha Bar – Grosvenor House, Dubai Siddharta Lounge – Grosvenor House, Dubai Summer Palace Chinese
Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Miyako – Hyatt Regency Dubai Shanghai Chic – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel White Orchid – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Beachcombers – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Nomad – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel ET Sushi – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hakkasan – Jumeirah Emirates Towers The Noodle House – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Tokyo@thetowers – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Zheng He’s, Mina A’ Salam – Madinat Jumeirah Rooftop Terrace – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Wok-In Restaurant – Mövenpick Hotel Deira Eau Zone – One&Only Royal Mirage The Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai Minato – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Sumibiya – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek The China Club – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Yum – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Icho – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Indothai – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Tomo – Raffles Dubai Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Creekside – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Peacock – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Sakura – Taj Palace Hotel Okku – The H Hotel Dubai Shiba – The Meydan FAI – The Palace Downtown Dubai Thiptara – The Palace Downtown Dubai Blue Rain – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Spice Emporium – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
INDIAN Zaika Restaurant – Al Murooj Rotana – Dubai Armani/Amal – Armani Hotel Dubai Masala – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa iZ – Grand Hyatt Dubai Indigo by Vineet – Grosvenor House, Dubai Chor Bazaar – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Amala – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Meliá Dubai Chutney’s – Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Ashiana – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Handi – Taj Palace Hotel
MEDITERRANEAN Rosso – Amwaj Rotana Armani/Peck – Armani Hotel Dubai Armani/Ristorante – Armani Hotel Dubai Ronda Locatelli – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Pizzeria Le Dune – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Majlis Al Bahar – Burj Al Arab Cucina Italian Kitchen – Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Al Fresco – Crowne Plaza Dubai Capanna Nuova – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Flooka – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Az.u.r – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Pax – Dusit Thani Dubai Andiamo! – Grand Hyatt Dubai Dante – Grand Millennium Dubai Luciano’s – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Soda Box – Hotel Pullman Mall of the Emirates Foccacia – Hyatt Regency Dubai Cubo Pasta – Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Mistral – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Sicilia – Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel La Traviata – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Carnevale – Jumeirah Beach Hotel La Veranda – Jumeirah Beach Hotel Biscotti – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Mosaico – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Brunello Restaurant – Kempinski Hotel & Residences, Palm Jumeirah The MED – Media One Hotel Prego’s – Media Rotana Dubai Sketch – Metropolitan Palace Hotel La Plaza – Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Frankie’s – Oasis Beach Tower Thyme Restaurant – Oasis Beach Tower 101 – One&Only The Palm, Dubai La Moda – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Certo – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Vivaldi – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Rococo – Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Verdi – Taj Palace Hotel Shades – The Address Dubai Marina Bas Pasta – The Meydan Splendido – The RitzCarlton Dubai
Bussola – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
SEAFOOD Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Seaworld – Asiana Hotel Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Fish Bazaar – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Divaz – Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Mi Vida – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Ossigeno – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Pizzeria – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Beach Bar & Grill – One&Only Royal Mirage Fish Market – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Al Mersat Restaurant – Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Amwaj – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Zeta – The Address Downtown Dubai
STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Drive – Al Bustan Rotana MJ’s, Al Qasr – Madinat Jumeirah Seafire – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Western Steakhouse – Crowne Plaza Dubai The Exchange Grill – Fairmont Dubai The Grand Grill – Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Terra Firma – InterContinental Dubai Festival City Blue Flame – Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Gaucho – Dubai International Financial Centre The Rib Room – Jumeirah Emirates Towers Rhodes Twenty10 – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Palm Grill – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Fire & Ice – Raffles Dubai Chef’s Steak House Restaurant – Rixos The Palm Dubai Ruth’s Cris Steak House – The H Hotel Dubai Prime – The Meydan Center Cut – The RitzCarlton, Dubai International Financial Centre Hunters – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
THE NOBU GARDEN, ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI
Conrad, dubai
113
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB14.indd 113
21/01/2014 18:45
5
Grand MillenniuM dubai
04 4299999 Al Barsha
Toshi restaurant offers festive sushi with a succulent array of Asian delights. Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian Exit 36 – Garden venue
Grosvenor House, dubai
04 3998888
Dubai Marina Sloane’s offers a lively atmosphere with an open-show kitchen cooking up an array tasty dishes. A warm ambience is created by terracotta walls, rattan chairs and contemporary artwork.
5. Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire at InterContinental Dubai Festival City 6. Indigo by Vineet, Grosvenor House Dubai 7. Fish Market, Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek 8. Cavalli Club
Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British Rhodes in Residence– Afternoon tea Siddharta Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Bar – Bar The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American
Habtoor Grand beacH resort & spa
04 3995000
Dubai Marina Al Dhiyafa offers traditional Arabic cuisine and international flavours. Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Fish Bazaar – Seafood Thai Restaurant Luciano’s – Italian Polo Bar – Cocktail bar Summer Place Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Chinese Salamar – Garden lounge The Grand Grill – Steakhouse The White Lounge – Lounge The Underground Pub – English
Hatta Fort Hotel
04 8099333 Hatta
6
7
Enjoy drinks by the pool and watch your favourite films at Movies Under The Stars nights every Thursday and Friday. Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International
Hilton dubai creek
04 2271111 Deira
table9 offers elegant cuisine in an intimate setting. Or you may like to try Issimo Bar & Lounge for the relaxing ambience and light bites on offer at this popular sports bar. Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar table9 – European
Hilton dubai JuMeiraH
04 3991111
Dubai Marina Savour sublime Italian food at this award-winning restaurant. Sleek interiors at BiCE Ristorante add to the ambience at this elegant evening destination. For a lively experience Pachanga offers Latin American flavours in a vibrant atmosphere. Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar BiCE Restaurant - Italian Cuban Bar – Cuban Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Pure Sky Lounge - Lounge Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar
Hotel pullMan dubai Mall oF tHe eMirates
JuMeiraH creekside Hotel
Sheikh Zayed Road
DIFC
04 3772000
For multicultural cuisine, visit allday dining restaurant Sanabel. Sanabel – International Soda Box – Mediterranean Vantage – Cocktail bar
Hyatt reGency dubai
04 2091234 Deira
Make your Valentine's Day a memorable one by dining at Dubai's only revolving restaurant Al Dawaar. Packages per couple including an international buffet costing from AED649 with food only to AED1,099 with free-flowing top-tier bubbly. Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Bar – Cocktail bar The Kitchen – International The Premiere Nightclub– Nightclub
ibis World trade centre dubai
04 3324444 Zabeel
Cubo Pasta is a popular spot for delegates at neighbouring World Trade Centre. Cubo Pasta – Italian
intercontinental dubai Festival city
04 7011111
Dubai Festival City Anise is one of Dubai's favourite restaurants offerins flavours from all around the world. Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar La Terrasse par Pierre Gagnaire - Lounge Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steakhouse
Jebel ali GolF resort & spa
04 8145555 Jebel Ali
Embark on a culinary journey at Ibn Majed. Buffets feature specialities from Germany, Thailand and India. Divaz – Seafood restaurant Mushref Bar – Cocktail bar Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Tex Mex Steak House – American Sports Cafe – Sports bar White Orchid – Far Eastern
JuMeiraH beacH Hotel
04 3480000 Jumeirah
Located on the 25th floor with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and Burj Al Arab, La Parrilla is a truly unique destination to experience Friday brunch. Priced AED625 per person. 360° – Terrace bar Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American Jamie's Italian – Italian La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Mahiki – Nightclub Uptown – Bar
04 2308555
Blue Flame is offering a sumptuous three-course set menu for Valentine's Day accompanied by a complimentary glass of Champagne. Plumeria – Healthy café Blue Flame – Steak Cu-ba – Latin Nomad – International Crimson Gallery - Afternoon tea
JuMeiraH eMirates toWers
04 3300000 DIFC
Celebrate Valentine's Day at The Rib Room and enjoy a fivecourse meal and a glass of bubbly for AED450 per person. Alfie's – English Al Nafoorah – Arabic Alta Badia - Italian 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
Palm Jumeirah Indulge in a luxurious Valentine's Day experience with a private gazebo on the beach and receive a five-course meal and bubbly served by a butler, a chauffeur service, entertainment, gifts and more. Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese
JuMeira rotana Hotel
04 3455888 Satwa
Try some authentic German flavours in a series of traditional and delicious dishes from this influential European nation at Brauhaus. Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International
keMpinski Hotel & residences, palM JuMeiraH
04 4442000
Dubai Marina Brunello Restaurant offers Italian cooking at its best in the chic surroundings of Palm Jumeirah. Beachside Barbecue – Brasserie Brunello Restaurant – Italian K-West Bar – Wine bar
le Méridien Mina seyaHi beacH resort & Marina
04 3993333
Dubai Marina Latest Recipe offers an al fresco barbecue on the terrace with a variety of meats and seafood served in front of stunning views of the Gulf. Barasti – International Latest Recipe – International Watatsumi – Japanese Latitude Bar – Bar
8
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB14.indd 114
24/01/2014 12:21
le royal Méridien Beach resort & spa
04 3995555
Dubai Marina Maya presents the finest flavours from Mexico.
Melia duBai
04 3868111 Port Rashid
Azalya – International Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian
Media one hotel
Al Shindagah – International Al Diwan – Lebanese Malate Bar & Restaurant – Filipino Sketch – Mediterranean
04 4271000
Dubai Media City The MED is a stylish yet relaxed Mediterranean eatery boasting stunning views over Palm Jumeirah. THE DEK on 8 – Terrace bar The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean
Media rotana duBai
04 4350000 Al Barsha
Prego's presents a delicious selection of gourmet Italian fare. Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar
A TASTE of INDIA Amala Explore Mughlai cuisine at this stunning restaurant where a rich setting is created by wooden ceilings and glittering chandeliers. The Mughlai cooking style is strongly influenced by Iran and Turkey. Signature meals to enjoy at Amala include dal fry of yellow lentils, cumin, coriander and spinach and the delicious bharwan tandoori aloo which is a tasty mix of potato, paneer, pistachio and cashew nuts. Location: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Contact: 04 4530444 iZ The finest Indian cooking is presented with a fresh urban zeal at this chic eatery. Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai Contact: 04 3172221
04 2270000
A quaint, old-school hotel located in Deira.
9 10
MillenniuM plaza hotel duBai
Mövenpick hotel JuMierah lakes towers
04 4380000
Jumeirah Lakes Towers Pay a visit to international restaurant Nosh for fine fare from all corners of the globe.
04 3877777
Sheikh Zayed Road Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is located in the heart of the city. Drop into La Plaza for a spot of Mediteranean fare.
04 3668888
Umm Suqeim
oasis Beach tower
04 3994444
Jumeirah Beach Residence For a taste of Italy, don't miss a mouthwatering meal at Frankie's. There is also internationally renowned restaurant Wagamama.
Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining The Wharf – British Zheng He's – Chinese
Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai – Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house
Mövenpick hotel Bur duBai
one&only royal MiraGe
04 3366000
04 3999999 9. Teatro, Towers Rotana 10. L'Olivo, Rixos The Palm Dubai 11. Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor, Meliá Dubai
Al Sufouh
Celebrities restaurant has undergone a redesign. Dine in style on delicious dishes such as wild mushroom risotto. Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eauzone – Far Eastern Kasbar – Nightclub Nina – International Olives – International The Jetty – Beach Bar The Roof Top Lounge – Bar The Rotisserie – International Tagine – Moroccan
Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine Lebanese Restaurant – Lebanese Pulse The Club – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International
Mövenpick hotel deira
one&only the palM, duBai
04 4440111 Deira
04 4401010
The Palm Jumeirah
Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this five-star property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes.
STAY by Yannick Alleno is one of the city's finest gourmet French restaurants. 101 Dining Lounge and Bar – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern
Jigsaw – International Spiritz – Bar Wok-In Restaurant– Pan Asian
Mövenpick hotel iBn Battuta Gate
Mistral – Arabic Al Bahou – Brunch buffet Sicilia – Italian Shanghai Chic – Chinese Moroc Bar – Moroccan lounge Chor Bazaar – Indian
radisson Blu hotel, duBai Media city
04 3669111
Dubai Media City New head chef Alessandro Esposito takes the reigns at Certo's kitchen creating various traditional Italian meat and seafood delicacies. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail bar
radisson royal hotel duBai
04 3080000
Sheikh Zayed Road Icho's business lunch offers a set menu for AED100 per person. Choose an appetiser, second course and main along with Japanese miso soup. Every day, except Friday, from 12 to 4pm. Celsius – All-day dining Mo*Vida Nightclub – Nightclub Icho – Japanese Indo Thai Asian Restaurant – Asian
raffles duBai
04 3248888 Oud Metha
Savour delicious steaks from the grill at Fire & Ice. 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
Garhoud
Shores – International Fogueira –Brazilian
Cafe Arabesque - Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French
11
Downtown Dubai
park hyatt duBai
Both Traiteur's and The Thai Kitchen are presenting special romance-themed menus, giving guests even more choice for Valentine's Day.
Sicilia restaurant offers the finest Italian fare in an inviting setting.
04 4502000
This hotel, located in Jumeirah Beach Residence, is home to the city's first Brazilian restaurant and well worth a visit.
04 6021234
04 4440000
radisson Blu hotel, duBai downtown
Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International
Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International
The Wharf is a British-style restaurant which serves delcious fare that includes big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce.
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
Trade Centre Pay a visit to international restaurant Entre Nous for fine fare from all corners of the globe.
Mina a' salaM, Madinat JuMeirah
Dine in any restaurant to receive a scratch card with a surprise gift.
novotel world trade centre
04 3320000
La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar
04 2227171
Located on the upper floors of a mixed-use building close to the thriving Business Bay district, this new property has excellent views of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.
Urban bar & kitchen – Modern bar Nosh – International Crema lobby lounge – Lobby lounge
Jebel Ali
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB14.indd 115
Deira
The Talk Restaurant & Lounge – International West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge – Sports bar
Deira
Chutneys restaurant features a selection of traditional North Indian dishes. Some of the culinary delights include gosht korma, tawa murgh and fish tikka.
Jumeirah Beach Residence Start your weekend in style at West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge. Singer Harry Austin performs live rock and pop classics every Thursday from 8pm to 11pm. Enjoy the atmosphere with a 50 percent discount on selected beverages until 9pm.
Metropolitan palace hotel
Bur Dubai
radisson Blu hotel, duBai deira creek
04 4498888
Prestigious chef Sanjeev Kapoor presides over a restaurant here.
Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Maya – Mexican Bar Below – Wine bar Brasserie – International Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar
Mövenpick hotel JuMeirah Beach
rixos the palM duBai
04 4575555
Palm Jumeirah Enjoy the ultimate Valentine's experience on a private jetty with a violinist, gifts and more. A la Turca – International L'Olivo Restaurant – Italian Nargile - Shisha lounge Biber- Lounge Salt - Seafood
115
24/01/2014 12:21
T A ST E/THE GUIDE
rose rAyhAAn By rotAnA
04 3230111
Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC Sample creative dishes from around the world at Petals.
TAsTE oF sTArDom
Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International
tAj pAlACe hotel
the oBeroi, dUBAi
trAders hotel dUBAi
Deira
Sheikh Zayed Road
Deira
04 2232222
Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali. Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic Verdi – Italian
shAngri-lA hotel dUBAi
04 3438888
Sheikh Zayed Road
the Address doWntoWn dUBAi
Hoi An offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with French influences, served in a vibrant and colourful atmosphere.
04 4368888
Downtown Dubai Fazaris offers the finest in Italian and Japanese cuisine.
Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Ikandy – Cocktail bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese
Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – Italian and Japanese Hukama - Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood
sherAton dUBAi Creek hotel & toWers
the Address dUBAi mAll
04 2281111
04 4388888
Deira
Downtown Dubai
Vivaldi offers stunning views of Dubai Creek which present the perfect backdrop to a delicious Italian meal.
Try something new and discover the recently opened La Porte des Indes, a unique restaurant serving Indian-French cuisine.
Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian
Boutiq – Lounge Cabana – Lounge Karat – Afternoon tea La Porte des Indes – Indian French Na3Na3 – Arabic
sherAton jUmeirAh BeACh resort & toWers
04 3995533
Dubai Marina Visit Peacock for delicious Chinese cuisine. Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International Peacock – Chinese
sherAton dUBAi mAll oF the emirAtes hotel
04 3772000
An abundance of dining options is on offer here including Mediterranean restaurant Sanabel offering a host of European fare. Sanctuary Pool Lounge - Lounge Sanabel - Mediterranean Vantage - lounge
soFitel dUBAi jUmeirAh BeACh
04 4484848
Dubai Marina Fall in love all over again with a five-course set menu of Italian cuisine at Rococo. Elsewhere, A.O.C. French Brasserie will host the Red Velvet Valentine's Brunch priced from AED230 per person and featuring delicacies including foie gras, fresh seafood, live cooking stations, desserts and fine French cheeses. AOC French Brasserie – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar
soFitel the pAlm, dUBAi
04 4556677
Palm Jumeirah Celebrate the most romantic day of the year with a beach cabana dinner experience for AED980 per couple. Manava – International Studio Du Chef – French Porterhouse Steaks & Grills – International Bottega - Italian Deli – Italian Hong Loong - Asian
Marco Pierre White Grill The latest local launch from famed chef marco Pierre White, this grill features an open-kitchen concept that allows diners to watch the expert team at work. Dark-wood interiors complete the chic feel of this inviting space. Location: Conrad Dubai Contact: 04 4447444 Nobu Created by worldfamous Japanese chef Nobu matsuhisa, Nobu is a regular A-list haunt. A chic yet modern space, its menu fuses Japanese and Arabic flavours to great effect. Location: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Contact: 04 4262626 Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire Three-michelin star chef Pierre Gagnaire (pictured) brings fine French fare to Dubai through this elegant restaurant which offers exceptional cuisine in a plush Parisian-style setting. Location: InterContinental Dubai Festival City Contact: 04 4409300
the Address dUBAi mArinA
04 4238888
Dubai Marina On Valentine's Day at Shades, dine under the stars and enjoy a three-course meal, bubbly and chocolate for AED655 per couple. Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean
the Address montgomerie dUBAi
04 3905600
Emirates Hills Enjoy tapas at Monty's every evening. Choose from an offering including crispy calamari with lemon mayonnaise. Available Sunday to Thursday from 7 to 9pm. Priced from AED109 per person. Monty's – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International
the h hotel dUBAi
04 5018888
Sheikh Zayed Road Savour the finest quality produce and a delicious steak at one of the city's most popular spots. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse offers a gourmet dining experience in chic surroundings. Okku – Japanese Ruth's Chris Steakhouse - Steakhouse Gold lounge – Lounge Mizaan - International
the meydAn
04 3813333 Meydan
Enjoy the finest, succulent steaks with sensational racecourse views at stunning restaurant, Prime. Bas Pasta – Italian Equus Bar – Poolside dining Farriers – International Millennium Lounge – International Prime – Steak house Shiba – Asian
04 4441444
For an authentic taste of India, why not try a delicious meal at Ananta. This chic hotel, located close to Downtown Dubai and DIFC, also offers fine Asian fare Umai restaurant. Nine7One – International Umai – Asian Ananta – Indian The Lobby Lounge – Lounge The Lobby Bar - Bar
the pAlACe doWntoWn dUBAi
04 4287888
Downtown Dubai Asado offers the finest flavours of Argentina and stunning views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai
the ritZ-CArlton dUBAi
04 3994000
Dubai Marina Lobby Lounge is a wonderful spot to enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea with a variety of blends and freshly baked cakes and pastries. Amaseena – Arabic Blue Jade - Asian Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian
the ritZ-CArlton, dUBAi internAtionAl FinAnCiAl Centre
04 3722222 DIFC
Center Cut boasts a menu of the finest steaks and grilled meats paired with the finest beverages. Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar
the Westin dUBAi minA seyAhi BeACh resort & mArinA
04 3994141
Dubai Marina Enjoy delicious dishes from Blue Orange, Hunters and Spice Emporium at the Bubbalicious Friday brunch. Priced at AED650 per person with free flowing bubbly. Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian El Sur - Spanish Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai
toWers rotAnA dUBAi
04 3438000
Sheikh Zayed Road Long's Bar is a lively spot for tasty snacks and a wide selection of beverages. Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar Wraps – International
04 2659888
City dining
The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style. Or choose from a wide selection of delicious and refreshing cocktails to relax and unwind at the chic Chameleon Bar. Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International
villA rotAnA
AlegrA
Sheikh Zayed Road
Al Murooj Rotana
04 3216111
Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet with a host of dishes to choose from at this sumptuous feast served in a chic and contemporary setting. Moka Café – All-day dining
THE bIG smokE
050 2464555
This stylish bar is located in the heart of the city. AQUArA
04 3627934
Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy spectacular views over Dubai Marina. At.mosphere
04 8883828 Burj Khalifa
The world's 'Highest Restaurant from Ground Level'.
A marker of sophistication and taste, cigars also embody many years of expertise and passion. Flavour, texture and aroma are all essential elements which factor into the enjoyment of cigar smoking. setting is also of great importance and a well-considered venue boasting the right ambience and comfort can enhance a smoker's experience.
BArZAr
In Dubai, a host of stunning venues provide not only a bespoke space for the cigar smoker but grand destinations which pay tribute to the pastime’s classic roots while offering an excellent selection of brands to try presented by knowledgeable staff.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
The Cigar Lounge at The Address Downtown Dubai, The Cigar bar at Fairmont Dubai and C Club at Jumeirah Zabeel saray are just a few of the prime destinations suited to the discerning smoker.
04 3666197
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar also serves British food. CArlUCCio's
04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728
The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment. CAvAlli ClUB
04 332960
Fairmont Dubai A chic nightspot that attracts a trendy late-night crowd. Centimetro
04 3666730
Enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. Chi’Zen
04 2329077, 04 3549288 Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates
First-class Cantonese cuisine and amazing views. rivington grill
04 4230903, 04 3666464 Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day. the mAngo tree
04 4267313
Souk Al Bahar Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while overlooking Burj Khalifa. UshnA
04 3686506
Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor and excellent cuisine. vip room
04 3881400
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Dubai's hottest new clubbing venue. West 14th
04 4477601
The Palm Jumeirah
116
LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB14.indd 116
Expect succulent steaks at this New York grill and bar.
21/01/2014 18:46
AVAILABLE NOW! WWW.DUBAIAUTODROME.COM Untitled-1 1
16/01/2014 09:25
B
A
C
PALM JUMEIRAH AND ATLANTIS THE PALM, DUBAI This manmade island is home to an incredible selection of first-class restaurants, bars, entertainment and white sand beaches. Luxury resort Atlantis The Palm, Dubai calls this idyllic spot home. From world-class restaurants to the finest in designer shopping the hotel also offers family fun at Aquaventure water park set in 42 acres with speed slides, river rapids and lush tropical landscapes. Take a ride on the Palm Monorail for panoramas of this unique island.
DUBAI MARINA MALL, THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE, JUMEIRAH BEACH Nestled among a clutch of sky-high towers Dubai Marina Mall offers an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse designer brands before relaxing at a selection of restaurants or enjoy al fresco eateries lining the water’s edge. Minutes away are Jumeirah Beach and The Walk at JBR where a leafy boulevard boasts cafés, five-star hotels and art stores. Skydive Dubai is based at Jumeirah Beach for your chance to soar over the stunning sights below.
8 1 73
42
90
MADINAT JUMEIRAH, BURJ AL ARAB, JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL This picturesque cluster of Jumeirah properties boasts an eclectic range of luxury hotels, fine dining and entertainment. Shop at Souk Madinat, relax in the Assawan Spa or make waves at Wild Wadi water park. For the ultimate in luxury experiences visit Burj Al Arab with stunning ocean views, ornate interiors and decadent dining. Or enjoy the pristine beaches of Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
6 24
40 58
66
PALM JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH BEACH
72
30
82 44 28
5 71 65
35
HIGHWAY SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
ROAD TO JEBEL ALI → GOLF RESORT & SPA
DUBAI MARINA 5
4
3
53
54
33
9
27
9
5
JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS
13
43 87 57
AL SUFOUH ROAD
46
5
7 5
8
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, DUBAI
HOTELS
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
MAP-DXB_FEB2014.indd 118
MALL OF THE 14 EMIRATES
26
GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK
TIMES SQUARE CENTER
12
9
MALL OF THE EMIRATES, SKI DUBAI Hundreds of designer stores, boutiques and entertainment options abound in this sprawling mall. Enjoy a 14 screen cinema complex or dine in one of two food courts. For something different, try Ski Dubai. The Middle East’s first indoor skiing complex offers a range of alpine fun from skiing to snowboarding.
DUBAI VISITOR MAP 6
11
11
69
AL BARSHA
12
10
78
16 GREEN COMMNITY
Al Bustan Rotana Dubai Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Al Manzil Hotel Al Murooj Rotana Dubai Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach Residence Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa Asiana Hotel Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Auris Plaza Hotel Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Burj Al Arab Centro Barsha by Rotana Conrad Dubai Courtyard by Marriott, Green Community Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
18
EMIRATES HILLS THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE
1 2 3 4 5
9
26 47
Ask the concierge desk for a copy of the Concierge Dubai fold-out map with tips on what to see and do in the city
UMM SUQEIM AL WASL ROAD
IBN BATTUTA MALL
JUMEIRAH ISLANDS
36 13
DUBAI MEDIA CITY AND KNOWLEDGE VILLAGE
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
13
45
62 DUBAI INTERNET CITY/
21
77 10
6
12
E2 D3 D2 D2 A1 B1 E1 A1 B2 E1 B3 B3 B1 B2 D2 A2 D2
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39
Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Fairmont Dubai Dusit Thani Dubai Fairmont The Palm Grand Hyatt Dubai Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort Hyatt Regency Dubai Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai InterContinental Dubai Festival City Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeriah Creekside Hotel Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence
ROAD TO BAB AL SHAMS RESORT &SPA 11 ● ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB ● DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN 6 CLUB
12 DUBAI SPORTS CITY
E1 E2 D1
40 41 42
A1 D2 D2 A1 E2 B2 A1 A1 E1 A1 E1 D2 A1 E2 A1 B1 E2 D2
43
D1
44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeira Rotana Dubai Kempinski Residences and Hotel Apartments Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Madinat Jumeirah (Al Qasr, Mina A’Salam, Dar Al Masyaf) Media One Hotel Media Rotana, Barsha Dubai Meliã Dubai Metropolitan Palace Hotel Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Mövenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Deira Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers Nassima Tower Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai
A1 D1 A1
57 58 59 60
A1
61
A1
62
B1 A1 B2 E1 E1 D2
63 64 65
E2 E1 A1 A2 D2 D2
66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73
7
14
One & Only Royal Mirage One & Only The Palm Park Hyatt Dubai Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Downtown Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Raffles Dubai Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence Rixos The Palm Dubai Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa
B1 A1 E2 D2 E1 B1 D2 E2 A1 B1 D2 D2 B2 E1 A1 A1 B1
●
74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90
Taj Palace Hotel Dubai The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Dubai Marina The Address Montgomerie The H Hotel Dubai The Meydan Hotel The Palace Downtown The Ritz-Carlton Dubai The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Centre The Oberoi, Dubai Traders Hotel Dubai Towers Rotana Dubai The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Vida Downtown Dubai Villa Rotana Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah
E2 D2 D2 A1 A2 D2 D2 D2 A1 D2 D2 E1 D2 A1 D2 D2 B1
SHOPPING 1 2 3
Al Ghurair City Arabian Center Beach Centre
E1 E3 D1
23/01/2014 11:46
D
E
MERCATO SHOPPING MALL, JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD. The first themed shopping mall in the Middle East, Mercato is one of the city’s best loved retail spaces. It boasts beautiful Renaissance style architecture and represents the very best of Italy in Dubai. Home to over 130 shops, superb cafes, restaurants and a cinema, wander the mall's charming cobbled streets for an enjoyable experience.
WOLLONGONG BEACH
5 19 27
JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD
48
16 14
3
BUR DUBAI 41
5
JUMEIRAH 5
89
13
12
25
22
86
68
19
15
14
84
63 55 15 22 79
17
17
16 67
23
DOWNTOWN DUBAI 81
TRAD
50
38 56
15
DIFC
18
E CEN
TRE RD 5
51
WORLD TRADE CENTRE
OUD METHA
3
4
88
24
60
4
64 3
THE DUBAI MALL, BURJ KHALIFA AND THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN The world’s largest mall offers more than 1,200 shops alongside an abundance of dining and entertainment options. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is teeming with ocean life while The Dubai Fountain can be accessed from the mall where a stunning water show takes place every half hour each evening at the foot of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.
SH
●
AL MAHA DESERT
GARHOUD BRIDGE
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
14
15
1
25
2
2 GARHOUD
1
27
9
20 21 ROAD TO:
MIRDIF CITY CENTRE
ROAD TO: DRAGONMART
3
TO: 2 ROAD ARABIAN CENTER
DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY
●
28
8
KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
10
8
2 RESORT &SPA
JA H
26
80
ROAD TO:
10 ● DUBAI OUTLET MALL
AR
37
19 34
MEYDAN
74
DUBAI CREEK GOLF &YACHT CLUB
25
2
10
CLOCK TOWER
7
15
1
85
22
59 24
DUBAI HEALTHCARE CITY
3
D
52
49
CREEK PARK
29
AS HE ED R
MAKTOUM BRIDGE 23
17
ZAABEEL
21
1
CORN ICHE
7
13
AL KARAMA
39
AL R
29
20
19
DEIRA 11
12 18
70
THE DUBAI MALL
E
10
31
DEIRA
61
32
JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS
4
75 76
83
6
4
24
SATWA
SAFA PARK
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
9
8
DUBAI MUSEUM
MANKHOOL RD
LYA AL JAFI
SATWA RD
6
AL WASL ROAD
24
7
MINA RD
28 23 20
JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK
HERITAGE VILLAGE
SHEIK SAEED AL MAKTOUM HOUSE
JUMEIRAH BEACH CORNICHE
DUBAI CREEK
THE WORLD (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD As Dubai's main artery, this is one of the busiest roads along with Al Khail and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.
DUBAI CREEK, SOUKS AND DUBAI MUSEUM The heart of the city, the Creek is a stunning spot to catch a glimpse of authentic Dubai. See dhows (traditional boats) ply their trade along the waters while early morning visitors will see fishermen at work on the river banks. Also in this part of the city is Dubai Museum, which makes for a fascinating day out with interactive displays and exhibits charting the emirate’s history from its pearl diving days. Stop by the gold, spice and perfume souks for some traditional treasures before leaving this vibrant area.
2 mile 2 km
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
BurJuman E1 ChoithramS upermarket locations B2/C2/D1/E1 Citywalk Mall D1 Deira City Centre E2 Dragonmart D3 Dubai Festival City E2 Dubai Marina Mall A1 Dubai Outlet Mall D3 Gold and Diamond Park B2 Ibn Battuta Mall A2 Jumeirah Centre D1 Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers D2 Jumeirah Plaza D1 Lamcy Plaza E2 Mall of the Emirates B2 Mazaya Centre D2 Mercato D1 Mirdif City Centre E3 Oasis Centre C2 Palm Strip D1 SpinneysS upermarket locations C2/D2/E1
MAP-DXB_FEB2014.indd 119
25 26 27 28 29
The Dubai Mall Times Square Centre Town Centre The Village Wafi
D2 C2 D1 D1 E2
SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Aquaventure Aviation Club Al Nasr Leisureland and Stadium Al Wasl Stadium Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Dubai Sports City Helidubai Jebel Ali Sailing Club (JASC) Meydan Racecourse Ski Dubai Skydive Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai Autodrome Dubai Dolphinarium
B1 E2 E2 E2 A1 B3 B3 E2 A1 D2 B2 A1 B1 B3 E2
DUBAI METRO Jebel Ali 2 Danube 3 Ibn Battuta 4 Nakheel Harbour & Tower 5 Jumeirah Lakes Towers 6 Dubai Marina 7 Nakheel 8 Dubai Internet City 9 Sharaf DG 10 Mall of the Emirates 11 First Gulf Bank 12 Noor Islamic Bank 13 Business Bay 14 Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall 15 Financial Centre 16 Emirates Towers 17 World Trade Centre 18 Al Jafiliya 19 Al Karama 20 BurJuman 21 Union 22 Al Rigga 23 Deira City Centre
24 25
1
26
A2 A2 A2 A2 A2 B2 B2 B2 B2 C2 D2 D2 D2 D2 D2 D2 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2
27 28
GGICO Airport Terminal 1 Airport Terminal 3 Emirates Rashidiya
E2 E2 E2 E2 E2
DUBAI METRO GREEN LINE 1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Creek Al Jadaf Dubai Health Care City Oud M etha BurJuman Saeedia Al Ghub aiba Al Ras Palm Deira Baniyas Square Union Square Salah Al Din Abu Baker Al Siddique Abu Hail Al Qayadah Stadium Al Nahda
E2 E2 E2 E2 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2
18 19 20
Dubai Airport Free Zone Al Qusias 1 Etisalat
* Please call the RTA on 800 90 90 or visit wojhati.rta.ae for more information. Icon for shopping area or mall. concierge map October/November/December 2013
23/01/2014 11:46
{
My Dubai
Ramin Salsali, founder of Salsali Private Museum in Dubai, shares his city highlights
}
1
1
I was born in Tehran in Iran but I have travelled back and forwards to the UAE for more than 25 years. I have been a Dubai resident since 2005 and I feel very at home here. I love it all year round, even during summer when the temperature soars, as the city is a little quieter. The weekend is the time I use for reading, taking part in some sports activities and meeting friends. I like to unwind at French restaurant La Petite Maison at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) where the food and service are outstanding. Also at DIFC is Zuma, which serves delicious Japanese cuisine. The salmon and tuna tartare is a fantastic dish. I also love Lime Tree Café in Al Quoz for the fresh and tasty food. Dubai is a wonderful city for dining and at weekends I enjoy trying new restaurants. The UAE offers world-class events for visitors and residents to enjoy. For me, Art Dubai and Abu Dhabi Art are highlights. The art fairs not only attract artists and galleries but a large number of international visitors and collectors who will leave the UAE as ambassadors for the country and its cultural offering.
1 Art Dubai 2 Emirates Palace
When I have friends and family to visit, I make sure they get the chance to tour the architecture of both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The combination of innovative design and futuristic shapes in each city makes a stunning skyline vista. Dubai’s landmarks Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab are an essential stop on any itinerary while Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Emirates Palace are stunning structures to visit during a trip to the capital. An adventure in the desert also makes a memorable experience and a host of companies take visitors on desert safaris from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The distinctive landscape and traditional Bedouin camps offer a glimpse of true local character. I also recommend visitors to Dubai take time out to see some of the fantastic exhibitions in the city’s galleries at DIFC and Al Quoz. Salsali Private Museum is well worth a visit as it showcases a vibrant selection of contemporary Middle Eastern and international artworks. I have so many incredible memories of my time here in the UAE. Overall, I would say the best aspect of life here for me is meeting amazing people from all over the world.
“The UAE offers world-class events for visitors and residents to enjoy. The art fairs not only attract artists and galleries but a large number of international visitors”
2
120
CONC_DXB_MY DUBAI_Ramin Salsali_FEB14.indd 120
23/01/2014 11:32
STORES – Deira City Centre: +971 4 295 0066 / The Dubai Mall–The Souk: +971 4 339 9019 / Abu Hail: +971 4 297 0789 Mirdif City Centre: +971 4 284 0440 / Ras Al Khaimah: +971 7 233 5547 / Fujairah City Centre: +971 9 223 6860 SCARVES & GLITTERS – Dubai Festival City: +971 4 232 8430 / The Dubai mall: +971 4 330 8135 For trade enquiries please contact: nawab@kashkha.ae and raju@kashkha.ae UAE | Oman | Qatar | Indonesia | Malaysia Like us today at www.facebook.com/kashkhallc
Kashkha_Feb 2014 220x275.indd 1
|
Follow us today @kashkhaplaza
|
www.kashkha.ae
19/01/2014 17:07
cartier.com
From UAE: 800 Cartier (800-227 8437) Outside UAE: +971 4 236 8345
UAE Concierge Dubai PUJA1175 275x220 En.indd 1 Untitled-2 1
Haute Joaillerie bracelet, L’Odyssée de Cartier
1/16/14 3:58 PM 19/01/2014 10:02