Concierge Dubai Magazine, December 2011 by npimedia fz llc

decEMber 2011 | issue 88

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

dubai edition decEMber 2011 | issue 88

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

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DECEMber 2011 / Issue 88 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

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CIRCULATION & M ARKETING Miche l l e Hir ao c a rol mil a n

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

WELCOME TO concierge Concierge is the definitive five-star visitor magazine, exclusively available in-room at the UAE’s finest hotels. This Dubai edition is available at 84 partner hotels throughout the city and you can also look out for the Abu Dhabi edition when visiting the capital, distributed in 45 hotels. With growing numbers of visitors from China, Russia and other Arab countries, bespoke Concierge editions are also produced in-language for these guests. Concierge reflects the interests and status of our audience – international leisure and business visitors who want to explore and enjoy a destination renowned for its high-end shopping, world-class restaurants and unique experiences. Concierge is your reference for all that Dubai has to offer during your stay. Whether it is luxury shopping and award-winning cuisine or exciting activities and sights to see, we have it all covered in four distinct sections: Shop, Taste, Experience and Discover. Our upfront Essentials showcase the top events this month and vital visitor experiences, while informed features provide an invaluable insight into the Middle East’s most cosmopolitan destination. The Guide completes Concierge, offering a comprehensive companion to Dubai, with detailed information covering the four sections. To make the most of your time in this exciting destination, just turn to the comprehensive listings in The Guide and find the latest up-to-date information at your fingertips. Further information can also be found at www.conciergedubai.com or by consulting your hotel concierge. Dubai is a dynamic and exciting destination. Enjoy it fully with Concierge.

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

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

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

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

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In focus Image: Courtesy of Corbis Subject: Grace Kelly Next year will mark the 30th anniversary of the death of Grace Kelly – Oscar-winning actress and Princess of Monaco. Almost three decades on, she is still regarded as one of the most influential style icons in the world and a true star of Hollywood’s golden age. Turn to page 110 to learn how her legacy lives on through luxury. For those who enjoy the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown, it may please you to know that this month Dubai will be abuzz with stars of the film world as it plays host to the Dubai International Film Festival – the leading film festival in the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

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contents DECember 2011 / Issue 88

14/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

20/SNAPSHOT Into the blue

23/SHOP 24/JEWELS OF THE SEA Precious pearl jewellery

30/SPECIAL MOMENTS

We discover the enduring appeal of Baume & Mercier

36/MALL TRAWL A round-up of the city’s top retail havens

42/STAY YOUNG Beauty creams that keep wrinkles at bay

46/SCENTS OF DIRECTION Fragrances for the men

49/TASTE 50/CHRISTMAS UNWRAPPED All the best festive celebrations

58/ARABIAN NIGHTS Delicious Middle Eastern food

66/LOCAL FLAVOUR

Emirati food you’ll want to feast on

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contents DECember 2011 / Issue 88

69/EXPERIENCE 70/club ACTION

We talk to Robert Karlsson, winner of the 2010 Dubai World Championship

78/detox special Keep trim this festive season

80/DOLPHIN DAYS Aquatic fun for the family

89/MY DUBAI

The Bridal Show exhibition director, Daphne Cota talks about life in Dubai

91/DISCOVER 92/FABULOUS AT FORTY Happy birthday to the UAE

98/back in time

We take a look at photographer, Anita van der Krol-van Hasselt’s historic exhibition of Dubai

103/TOURIST tRAIL The house of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum

104/MISSION INCREDIBLE

The much-anticipated release of Mission Impossible 4 – Ghost Protocol is here

110/SAVINg GRACE We pay tribute to the late Grace Kelly

Q 117/the Guide Comprehensive listings to help plan the perfect stay

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essentials

Brought to you in association with

DECEMber

EXPERIENCE

Dubai World Championship The undulating fairways of Jumeirah Golf Estatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Earth course will be abuzz with the stars of the golfing world, including Lee Westwood (pictured), Rory Mcllroy and Robert Karlsson, from December 8 to 11. As well as a chance to watch the celebrity contenders in action, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also sunshine, beautiful scenery and a five-star clubhouse to keep you occupied. For more details visit www.dubaiworldchampionship.com

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EVENTS IN BRIEF Sophie EllisBextor in dubai

December 1 Brit-pop singer Sophie EllisBextor will be pumping up the volume at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai, as she performs a selection of hit songs. Expect all the old favourites including ‘Murder On The Dancefloor’ and ‘If This Ain’t Love’. For more information visit www.bongevent.com

A . R . RAH M AN IN DU B AI

December 9 Music lovers can expect a fantastic end to the year because internationally renowned musician and composer A.R. Rahman begins his world tour in Dubai with a concert at Dubai International Stadium. For tickets visit www.tickets.virginmegastore.me

M IX , B ATTER AND B A K E

December 10 Pick up some festive-themed culinary skills at Hey Sugar! Bakeshop, Park Island, Dubai Marina. From 10am to 12pm you can attend a cookie baking and decorating class and from 3 to 5pm there is a crash course in gingerbread house decoration. For more information call 04 4356871.

Discover Dubai Creek

A million miles away from modern Dubai, the Creek is a cultural melting pot and your chance to see a more traditional side of the city. From the dhows, laden with cargo, to the riverboat restaurants and smaller abras (water taxis), which guests can ride for just AED2, the Creek is the heart of old Dubai and the bustling waters are what keep it beating.

The nutcracker

December 15 to 17 The acclaimed Vienna Festival Ballet Company will be in town, giving audiences the chance to catch Tchaikovsky’s classical ballet The Nutcracker. For details visit www.madinattheatre.com

Taste Shisha

EXPERIENCE Full moon yoga

Yoga is a fantastic way to tune in, chill out and shape up, but if you don’t fancy doing the downward dog in a cramped studio, opt for the great outdoors. Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah will be holding a full moon yoga session on the beach on December 10. For details call 04 3666818.

Immerse yourself in local culture by smoking delicious flavoured tobacco through a shisha or water pipe. This highly sociable pastime sees groups of friends meet and share flavours such as apple, grape and mint. Visit the Layali Shisha Pool Lounge at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach where you can choose between eight delicious flavours. Location: Served at most hotels and at many cafés. Price: Approximately AED60.

sandance nye

December 31 Celebrate the new year in style at Sandance NYE, at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. The starstudded line-up includes Roger Sanchez, Basement Jaxx and Sister Bliss from Faithless, as well as an unforgettable fireworks display at midnight. Visit www.atlantisthepalm.com

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DISCOVER Stable tour

Enjoy a delicious trackside breakfast at The Meydan before taking an exciting tour of the stables at Meydan Racecourse, the home of the Dubai World Cup (the world’s richest horse race). The tour, which includes a visit to the saddling paddock as well as a tour of the Jockeys’ Lounge and the Horse Connection Lounge is held every Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday and allows you to retrace the steps of racing champions, as well as giving you a sneaky peak at the trainers as they put the horses through their morning paces. Price: AED250 for adults and A ED200 for children aged four to 12. Children under four years old are not permitted on the stable tours. Contact: stabletours@ meydanhotels.com or call 04 381 3333.

SHOP

Montblanc Montblanc’s latest luxury creation – Bespoke Nib Service Capturing – means that you can own a writing instrument that is exactly suited to your own distinctive writing style. Location: Montblanc at The Dubai Mall. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 04 4340300.

EXPERIENCE Dubai Rugby Sevens

You don’t need to be nuts about rugby to enjoy the Dubai Rugby Sevens because this popular event, which is the season opener for the IRB Sevens World Series, has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for fast-paced on-field fun, a social get-together with friends or wholesome family entertainment, you won’t be disappointed. The Rugby Sevens takes place from December 1 to 3. For more information visit www.dubairugby7s.com

SHOP

Fashion Avenue Prepare for some serious credit card action because the Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall is your one-stop shop for all things fabulous. Check out top designers including Shanghai Tang, Gucci, Lanvin and Moschino (pictured). There’s no excuse for leaving empty handed. Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 04 3627500.

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TASTE

Ask the concierge

Brunch

If your stay in Dubai takes in a Friday use this opportunity to experience a Friday brunch. Unlike the calm culinary event it is elsewhere across the globe, brunch in Dubai is a whole new experience. With buffet tables straining under the weight of gourmet food and an unending supply of free-flowing alcohol, you won’t be left wanting. Our top recommendations include Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah and Atrium at Grand Millennium Dubai, where a festive brunch will be served on December 25. Turn to page 120 for a list of hotels, many of which serve Friday brunch.

o s c a r va n d e r v e e n , CONC I ER G E m a n a g e r at t h e b u r j a l a r a b, s h a r e s h i s t o p t i p s f o r a l u x u ry s tay

SHOP

Old-style souks If you like to trawl for trinkets, pack a pair of comfortable shoes and get ready for a shop-a-thon at one of Dubai’s air-conditioned indoor markets. Souk Madinat Jumeirah (pictured), Souk Al Bahar and Khan Murjan are three recently built bazaars, constructed to resemble traditional Arabic marketplaces. The perfect places to pick up Arabic lanterns, dates and Persian carpets, this is where you go for last-minute souvenir shopping. Location: Umm Suqeim, Downtown Dubai and Oud Metha respectively. Turn to page 119 for more information.

EXPERIENCE Dubai International Film Festival

Have your autograph book at the ready because from December 7 to 14 Dubai will play host to the Dubai International Film Festival – the leading film festival in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Celebrities from around the world will be jetting to the city for a slice of the action, which takes place at Madinat Jumeirah. For more information visit www.dubaifilmfest.com

The ultimate breathtaking experience for any Dubai visitor is a private helicopter journey across the city. Our guests have the option to hop aboard a helicopter, which departs from our own helipad. During the trip passengers have a bird’s-eye view of amazing sights such as Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Creek. When it comes to shopping I direct visitors to the Fashion Avenue in The Dubai Mall. All the luxury brands are located in one area and there is a plethora of boutiques and designer stores. If they don’t find what they’re looking for in Fashion Avenue I would suggest Bloomingdale’s as a good alternative. It is also located in The Dubai Mall. Dubai comes alive at night so I recommend guests head to either the Cavalli Club at The Fairmont Dubai, Trilogy at Madinat Jumeirah or Buddha Bar at Grosvenor House for some sophisticated socialising. If they prefer an alfresco venue you can’t go wrong with 360˚, which is located at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Alternatively, if the guest is looking for a romantic experience I would advise booking a table at Segretto, located at Madinat Jumeirah. The culinary journey starts with an idyllic abra ride to the restaurant, where a delicious candlelit dinner awaits.

Concierge of the Year awards The Concierge of the Year awards, set up by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, aim to reward concierges for their outstanding service. If you would like to recommend a particular concierge, please contact us at concierge@npimedia.com Supported by:

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DISCOVER

LOOKING AHEAD

At the Top

ROCKING ALL OVER THE WORLD

Enjoy unparalleled views of Dubai from At the Top, the observation deck in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Located on the 124th floor and easily accessible thanks to the super-swift elevators, which climb at a rate of 10 metres per second, you can expect exhilarating sights of the city and photo opportunities aplenty. Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Price: Dated and timed tickets AED100 adults, AED75 children aged four to 12. Immediate entry AED400. Contact: 800 AT THE TOP (800 28843867) or visit www.burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck

What: After an extremely successful run at The First Group Theatre in May, the Barnyard Theatre Production Company is back with the ever-popular Rocking All Over The World. When: January 11 to 14 Where: Madinat Jumeirah Contact: www.madinattheatre.com

d u b ai s ho p p ing f e s tival What: An annual month-long shopping extravaganza. Expect concerts, big discounts on goods and daily car raffles. When: January 20 to February 20 Where: At shopping outlets throughout Dubai Contact: www. dubaishoppingfestival.com

S TA N D A R D C H A R T E R E D D UB A I M A R AT H O N 2 012

DISCOVER Camel racing

What: An annual running race which stretches over 42km. US$250,000 (AED918,000) in prize money is awarded to the fastest male and female runners and a new world record bags you US$1 million (AED3.67 million). When: January 27 Where: The race starts at Downtown Dubai Contact: www.dubaimarathon.org

For something out of the ordinary, take a trip to Dubai Camel Racing Club, which is located in Lisailly, approximately 35kilometres from Dubai. The camel racing season runs from October to the end of April and the races are held every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and on national holidays. For details call 04 8324040.

D u b ai d u t y f ree tenni s cham p ion s hi p 2 012 What: The world’s best tennis players vie for the top spot and a share of the US$4 million (AED14.7 million) prize purse. When: February 20 to March 3 Where: The Aviation Club Contact: www.dubaidutyfree tennischampionships.com

A R T D UB A I What: The most established international art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia. When: March 21 to 24 Where: Madinat Jumeirah Contact: www.artdubai.ae

D u b ai world c u p What: Equestrian stars from around the world unite for the world’s richest horserace. When: March 31 Where: Meydan Contact: www.dubaiworldcup.com

EXPERIENCE Ski Dubai

If you’re looking for a festive experience like no other you can’t beat Ski Dubai. After all, where else are you going to find real snow in Dubai? Our very own Lapland in the desert, from December 18 to 24 (5 to 10pm) Santa will be roaming around the Snow Park with a big bag of presents for little ones. On December 23 and 24 there will be special performances from a range of festive-themed characters. For details visit www.skidxb.com

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Snapshot

Into the blue The graceful Arabian dhow is a cultural symbol of the UAE. Its billowing sails are reflected in the design of the iconic Burj Al Arab, one of the early landmarks of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success. These majestic vessels can be seen under full sail each winter, racing over the waves of the Arabian Gulf. The boats are crewed mainly by teams of young UAE nationals in stiff competition, with big prize money at stake. Traditional sailing skills, passed from generation to generation, are still in use in these races, as sailors hoist the boom carrying the sail by hand using traditional block and tackle, and navigate by the methods of their forefathers. Here a crew fiercely competes off the coast of the Palm Jumeirah with Atlantis The Palm, Dubai visible in the distance. 20

robertocoin.com Кристи Тарлингтон. коллекция Bollicine

SHOP Ralph Lauren

Ralph Laurenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s autumn/winter 2011 childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection proves good things do come in small packages. For boys, a world of vintage varsity awaits, with rugby fleeces, sweaters and graphic tees. Girls can look forward to lace-edge leggings, distressed denim pieces and wooly numbers. Visit Ralph Lauren boutiques at The Dubai Mall, BurJuman and Mall of the Emirates.

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jewels of the sea A modern jewellery hub with a strong heritage, Dubai is the ideal place to buy a luxurious set of shining pearls

Q There is something wonderfully romantic about pearls, their creamy hue and shiny lustre is seductive. And nowhere more so than in Dubai, a city with a rich pearling history and thriving jewellery trade. Head to any of the emirate’s shopping centres and see stores brimming with bright, gleaming pearls. But before delving into your pocket and purchasing that must-have piece, there are a few important points worth considering. “To be deemed perfect, a pearl should have extremely high lustre, excellent surface texture and it should be free of blemishes,” says Sahil Karani, director at Mikura Pearls. “It should also have a faultlessly round shape.”

PE A RL S / S HOP

SHO P/PEA RLS

Coloured kaleidoscope There is no international standard for grading pearls so different suppliers may not grade identical examples in the same way. Many reputable sellers, however, use the A, AA and AAA grading system with AAA being the most sought after. As well as lustre and shape, examine the surface of the pearl. It should be free of cracks and holes. Also consider the nacre, the thickness of its exterior. If a pearl has been harvested too early, its nacre may crack and flake. Look at drill holes with a magnifying glass where signs of damage are most likely to be found. The nacre should be at least 0.3mm deep or better, 0.5mm. With pink, black, blue, green and grey pearls available, which is the most popular and why?

As well as lustre and shape, examine the surface of the pearl. It should be free of cracks and holes. Also consider the nacre, the thickness of its exterior. If a pearl has been harvested too early, its nacre may crack and flake

1 Pinctada (previous page) 2&3 Khalil Al Sayegh 4 Mikimoto 5 Paspaley

“South Sea pearls come in varying colours from silvery white to blue grey and there are the brownish black pearls of Tahiti,” says Celina Pandey, marketing manager at Khalil Al Sayegh Jewellers. “Colour is purely a matter of personal choice.” According to Karani, it is still the traditional white pearl that tends to be more expensive. “This is because the overwhelming majority of demand is for white pearls,” he says. “White is the colour most typically associated with pearls from the discovery of the first natural pearls through to the culturing of Akoya, South Sea and Freshwater pearls. “Today, even though pearls are available in a variety of colours and hues, white remains the most sought after, especially in the larger South Sea pearls. “The rarity of finding a truly high-quality white South Sea pearl, however, makes it highly valuable and prized.”

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SHO P/PEA RLS

Perfect pearls

Another Dubai-based retailer with pearl expertise is Damas. As well as creating its own collections, Damas distributes luxury pieces from high-end brand Mikimoto, whose founder is credited with culturing the world’s first perfectly round pearl in 1893. Paspaley, another leading pearling company, recently made headlines for bringing the world’s largest pearl to Dubai. The precious South Sea gem was transported all the way from Australia for an exhibition at Paspaley Pearl at Atlantis, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai. Measuring a whopping 22mm in diameter, this priceless jewel of the sea is perfectly shaped and has a strong pink orient. Jewellers today sell cultured pearls, meaning a technician has opened the oyster’s shell and inserted an irritant to stimulate nacre production. This process, which was developed in the 1920s, destroyed the world’s pearl diving trade, which for deacades was Dubai’s greatest source of revenue and accounted for as much as 95 percent of national incomes. Divers would risk life and limb collecting oysters. Holding their breaths for minutes at a time they would scour the seabed in search of the precious gems. Today, Dubai is proud of its pearling heritage and both the Dubai Museum and the House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum in Bur Dubai are home to dedicated exhibits.

6 Paspaley 7 Damiani 8 Damas 9 Damiani 10 Mikimoto 11&12 Damiani

IN THE KNOW Concierge recommends the following reputable pearl retailers DAMAINI 04 3398736

Stores in: The Dubai Mall DAMAS 04 4270336

Stores in: All major malls and the One&Only Royal Mirage, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers and Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa DAMAS LES EXCLUSIVES 04 3398535

Stores in: Dubai Festival City, Deira City Centre, Wafi, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, The Dubai Mall, Mall of The Emirates, BurJuman, Madinat

Jumeirah, Mina A’ Salam and the Burj Al Arab KHALIL AL SAYEGH 04 2276555/04 3231113

Stores in: Al Maktoum Street, Deira and Dubai International Financial Centre (Aliel Boutique) 11

MIKURA 800-MIKURA (645872)/ 04 2266602

Stores in: Dubai Festival City and the Gold Souk PASPALEY 04 3398745

Stores in: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Saks Fifth Avenue in BurJuman PINCTADA 04 4340239

Stores in: The Dubai Mall, Mina A’Salam Hotel, Al Qasr Hotel and The Dubai Mall

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DUBAI - Baume & Mercier Boutique, Dubai Mall, T: 04 339 8880. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons - Mall of the Emirates, T: 04 341 1211 Burjuman Mall, T: 04 355 1717 - Atlantis Hotel, T: 04 422 0233 Mirdif City Centre, T: 04 284 3100 - Festival City, T: 04 232 9222 Wafi City, T: 04 324 6060. ABU DHABI - Al Manara Jewellery Hamdan Street, T: 02 626 2629. Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons Marina Mall, T: 02 681 1171.

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W a t che s / s hop

Special moments Baume & Mercier CEO Alain Zimmermann chats to Concierge about the enduring appeal of this luxury watch brand

Q You don’t clock up 181 years by resting on your horological laurels, as Baume & Mercier, one of the world’s oldest watchmakers, knows only too well. As the Swiss brand hurtles towards its 200-year anniversary you might ask yourself why this luxury label has maintained its stronghold for so long. The answer is that this is a watch house that prides itself on creating timepieces that lend themselves to special moments. “When you buy a Baume & Mercier watch you are investing in an emotion,” says Baume & Mercier CEO Alain Zimmermann. “You buy with your heart, not your head and people very often come to us because they are looking for something exceptional to mark a milestone, whether it be a graduation, Christmas or a wedding. This is a purchase that’s significant and means something.”

W a t che s / s hop

The house’s motto is ‘life is about moments’, and legend has it, it was inspired by Mélina Baume (daughter of co-founder LouisVictor Baume) who in 1869 requested a gold engraved pocket watch to mark her 14th birthday. Back then pocket watches were the main focus of the company and it wasn’t until the early part of the 20 th century, when Louis-Victor’s grandson William Baume met watchmaker and jeweller Paul Mercier that the brand took a new direction. “William Baume was a great visionary and an accomplished watchmaker,” explains Zimmermann. “Paul Mercier was an artist and took charge of the design work. Together they began making wristwatches and ladies’ timepieces, which were gaining popularity following the end of the First World War.”

Winning combination

1 Baume & Mercier Hampton collection (previous page) 2 Baume & Mercier boutique

The pairing proved to be a successful enterprise and in 1921 the duo were officially recognised for the flawless quality of their products, when they were awarded the new concept store in The Dubai Mall in prestigious Geneva Seal (the quality seal October. “The store, which is the first of the Geneva School of Horology). Ninety in the world, underwent an extensive years on and as well as being known for redesign to align with the new ‘Seaside accuracy and precision, Baume & Mercier Living’ theme,” explains Zimmermann. has steadily gained a reputation for crafting “There is a welcoming atmosphere, warm products inspired by passion, feelings and décor and remarkable use of light that emotion. Just this year the label’s Hamp- lends itself to the boutique becoming ton collection was upgraded to flagship a space where visitors feel at home in status, which saw the official launch of a the Hamptons.”

Just this year the label’s Hampton collection was upgraded to flagship status, which saw the official launch of a new concept store in The Dubai Mall in October

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sho p/ Wa tches

The brand’s first and only concept boutique showcases the new 2011 collection, which comprises the Hampton collection, along with the 2011 Capeland, Linea and Classima collections. While casting your eyes over each stunning watch, it’s impossible not to imagine the milestones each piece is yet to mark, whether it be a diamond-set Hampton for a bride-to-be or a handsome chronograph for a new graduate. Ultimately, special memories are at the centre of Baume & Mercier which is why two years ago, the company launched a Facebook campaign to encourage fans to tell the story of their timepieces. With over 200,000 Facebook fans it’s hardly

3 Romain Dezaux, Hassan Seddiqi, Mohammed Seddiqi, Abdulmagied Seddiqi, Alain Zimmermann, Osama Seddiqi, Christophe Nicaise and Ahmed Seddiqi at the opening of the new concept boutique in The Dubai Mall 4 Alain Zimmermann and Abdulmagied Seddiqi cut the ribbon

baume & Mercier Available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons 04 3323777

Located in: All major shopping malls as well as Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Grosvenor House Dubai, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and Jumeirah Emirates Towers

surprising that the result has been a flood of tales about how Baume & Mercier is a precious part of the lives of people across the world. “We wanted to have a dialogue with our customers and to hear their stories,” says Zimmermann, who purchased his first Baume & Mercier timepiece when he was 27. “I remember it fondly because it was at a time in my life when I could finally afford to buy a ‘proper’ watch. I still have it today and treasure it.” Whatever the story, it appears that the gift of a watch is one of the most enduring ways to mark an occasion and few brands understand this better than Baume & Mercier. The Baume & Mercier boutique is located in the Watches & Jewellery section of The Dubai Mall. For details call 04 3398880.

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JE W E LLE R Y D E S I G N JE W E LLE R Y D E S I G N

info@levant.com | www.levant.com

ATLANTIS +971 4 4226717

AL QASR +971 4 4243892

BURJ AL ARAB +971 4 3483131

MINA A’ SALAM +971 4 3686262

JUMEIRAH BEACH | +971 4 3488102

ZABEEL SARAY +971 4 4226717

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23/11/2011 12:05

MA L L S / S HOP

MALL TRAWL Don’t know where to start with the Christmas shopping? Let Concierge point you in the right direction

Q W o r d s b y C AT H E R I N E L A N G L E Y

The Dubai Mall Officially the world’s biggest mall by area, this is the place to head if you’re in the mood for some serious retail therapy. With more than 1,000 outlets, advertising everything from Balenciaga bags to radio-controlled planes, it’s virtually impossible to exit empty handed. Fashionistas should check out Fashion Avenue, which is abundant with designer-name boutiques. From Dolce & Gabbana to Donna Karan, Stella McCartney to Shanghai Tang, Fashion Avenue could leave even the most seasoned shoppers jelly-kneed. Fortunately, if you do run out of stamina you can refuel at the rather stylish Armani/Dubai Caffè, which is located in the central area of Fashion Avenue. Parents are also in luck because The Dubai Mall is the ultimate centre of attraction for children. As well as KidZania, a top-notch edutainment centre where kids can role-play as adults, choosing to be anything from a movie star to a motor mechanic, there’s a 22-screen cinema, an 8.3-metre-high by 32.88-metre-wide aquarium, which is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks and stingrays, an Olympic-sized ice rink and a Sega Republic indoor theme park. A tour around The Dubai Mall is likely to leave you famished, so amble back to the lower ground floor. Many of the restaurants in this area have direct views of the famous Dubai Fountain, which performs a dazzling water show every 30 minutes from 7 to 11pm daily. Where: Downtown Dubai Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday Contact: 800 38224 6255

F e s ti v e b u y Perfect for PlayStation fans, the Sony PS3 3D Monitor is designed to get the best 3D performance from your PlayStation 3. Available at Sharaf DG. Tel: 04 3398656

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23/11/2011 12:05

SHO P/MA LLS

Mercato

Festive buy

For those who enjoy shopping on a smaller scale, look no further than Mercato – an Italian-themed shopping mall located on Jumeira Beach Road. The unique blend of Tuscan and Venetian architecture, inspired by the Renaissance period, sets this mall apart from many others and while it’s smaller in size than most, it ticks all the retail boxes with an eclectic mix of brands including Hugo Boss, Massimo Dutti and Monsoon Children. You should also check out the well-stocked Virgin Megastore if you’re looking for any additions to your CD or DVD collections. One of Mercato’s major drawcards is Nail Spa, a ladiesonly manicure bar located on the first floor. Through the front doors you’ll find a tranquil world of water features, sleek bamboo-designed furniture and an army of skilled manicurists waiting to polish your nails to perfection. Mani/pedis are as much a part of Dubai life as shisha and shawarmas, so booking in for a file and polish is a rite of passage for any ladies new to these shores. For entertainment, head to the seven-screen cinema to catch all the latest blockbusters, or perhaps take the children to the Fun City play area located on the first floor next to the food court. Throughout the year Mercato also hosts various entertainment acts in the central area, including orchestral quartets and acrobatic shows.

If you’re looking for stocking fillers, drop into Lush for some organic bathroom goodies. Animalfriendly and 100 percent vegetarian, stock up on fruity treats, from bubble bath and shower gel to fragrances and moisturising soaps. Tel: 04 3449334

Where: Jumeira Beach Road, Jumeira Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to midnight Friday and Saturday / Contact: 04 3444161

Festive buy As the saying goes, ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’, so for the Promised Land of girly gifts, drop into Tiffany & Co. and splash out on something sparkly. Tel: 04 3410655

Mall of the Emirates When it comes to unique selling points, how about 22,500 square metres of real snow in the desert? That’s what you’ll find when you visit Mall of the Emirates, because this jumbo-sized retail retreat is home to Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s first indoor ski slope. Suitable for all levels of skier, the mountain-themed attraction has green, blue, red and black runs, as well as an après ski café. But if you don’t fancy carving up the slopes, check out the Snow Park where tobogganing, bobsled riding and snowball-throwing are all on the menu. For fun that doesn’t require a hat, scarf and gloves, visit the 14-screen cinema, or try out Magic Planet. Admittedly, it is probably one of the noisiest indoor play areas in Dubai, but with the latest video arcade games and adrenalineinducing rides, it is also one of the coolest. The Fashion Dome never ceases to amaze, with a multitude of designer brands under one roof. Just make sure you wear comfy shoes because you need a day to do it justice. For a slice of the dramatic, call into the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre. This 550-seat two-level theatre stages internationally renowned plays for adults and children. Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, Umm Suqeim Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday / Contact: 04 4099000

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26/11/2011 12:28

MODE

Dalí : ®Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí

L ’A R T , L ’A M O U R , L A

DALIGRAMME DESIGNED BY D ALÍ FOR G ALA daligramme.com

The Dubai Mall, Fashion Avenue, United Arab Emirates

SHO P/MA LLS

Festive buy

Dubai Festival Centre

Give the little ones a Christmas to remember and take a trip to Early Learning Centre. With a wide variety of fun and educational toys, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Tel: 04 2328371

If you like to shop the scenic way, Dubai Festival Centre with its pleasant waterfront walkways, outdoor cafés and unrivaled views of the historic Dubai Creek is the retail destination for you. Located in the heart of Dubai Festival City – a 1,300-acre urban community – this giant mall is home to a multitude of department stores, high-street chains, designer-jewellery brands and a 12-screen cinema. Budding artists should look out for the Community Arts Market, which is held on the first Friday of every month. From paintings to custom-made jewellery, it’s the place to be if you want to snap up works of art. Musical Weekends at Festival Marina are held every Friday and Saturday night throughout the cooler months. With the stunning backdrop of Dubai Creek, musicians take to Dubai’s only floating stage and entertain onlookers with a variety of musical acts. Where: Dubai Festival City Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday Contact: 04 2325444

Ibn Battuta Mall

Festive buy

Uniquely designed to celebrate the travels of the famous Arabic explorer Ibn Battuta, this mammoth mall is divided into six different sections – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China – with exciting décor to match. Housing a diverse range of over 275 shops and 50 restaurants, there’s a lot of ground to cover. Fortunately the mall is constructed on one level, so navigation is relatively simple, making it the destination of choice for those who like to explore each and every shop. For the ultimate movie-watching experience, prepare to be well and truly wowed at Grand Cinemas, a 21-screen theatre and the UAE’s only IMAX.

With its innovative time-release technology, which continues to reactivate the scent for hours after it has first been applied, Lacoste’s latest fragrance for men, Challenge Re:Fresh, is a great under-the-tree treat. Available at Lacoste. Tel: 04 3685605

Where: Jebel Ali Open: 10am to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday Contact: 04 3621900

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24/11/2011 10:06

PICTURE: COURTESY OF CLARINS

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BE A UT Y CRE A MS / S HOP

STAYING YOUNG

Say ‘bye-bye’ to fine lines and wrinkles because the latest technology means the quest for eternal youth is over (or at least on hold)

Q Clarins Eye Contour Gel While there’s nothing remotely funny about laughter lines, we have some news that will make you smile. The skincare experts at Clarins have put their heads together and come up with Clarins Eye Contour Gel. This lightweight, non-oily gel, which is designed to reduce puffiness and do away with dark circles, is enriched with four super-active organic plant extracts. The first, ginkgo biloba, encourages circulation, while the cornflower extract protects sensitive skin. Meanwhile, the camomile extract aids soothing and extract of aloe leaves the skin feeling smooth and supple.

1&2 Clarins 3&4 La Prairie 5 Bulgari

Cellular Power Infusion by La Prairie La Prairie’s most brilliant scientific achievement to date is your key to youthful skin. Cellular Power Infusion simultaneously impacts on the three dimensions of the skin that are responsible for the ageing process: the energy units within each skin cell, the skin cell itself and the structural makeup of the skin. With a three-pronged approach to anti-ageing, the first step is to reverse the cellular energy loss by recharging the skin with the vital energy essential for its optimal functioning. The next phase renews skin cells by reawakening stem cells, while the third stage begins the rebuilding of the skin’s structure. Applied twice daily for 28 to 40 days, to coincide with your skin’s natural renewal cycle, you can repeat the treatment every three months.

Bulgari Secret De Gemmes Line The Cosmetic Research Department of Bulgari has created a new programme to immediately and continuously combat expression lines. The exclusive line comprising three high-performing targeted products – Secret De Gemmes Serum, Secret De Gemmes Cream and Secret De Gemmes Cream Rich – contains two unique ingredients: relaxstim and hexapeptide. Relaxstim is a super-efficient anti-wrinkle ingredient, which dramatically reduces the appearance of expression lines. Hexapeptide is a hyaluronic acid matrix, which contains extra moisturising ingredients that help to keep skin hydrated at all times.

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24/11/2011 12:02

SHO P/ B EA UTY CREA M S

ATP

All the way from Australia, ATP, known for its technological advancements when it comes to anti-ageing and skin solutions, has created ATP Skin Firming Serum. Designed specifically to maintain elasticity and flexibility for firmer, plumper skin, this product is often referred to as the ‘non-surgical facelift’ serum.

UNE Radiance Programme The UNE Radiance Programme includes Micellar Cleansing Water, Moisturising Cream and Nourishing Cream. Working in harmony, these three products are designed to give a quick (yet longlasting) boost to your complexion, while helping to keep skin naturally smooth, plump and clear.

Strivectin-TL Tightening Face Serum and Tightening and Sculpting Face & Neck Cream Guerlain Abeille Royale Eye Care

It’s a fact that with ageing comes loss of skin firmness. Little by little, slackness creeps in making once-toned skin appear loose. StriVectin’s exclusive technology works from within, first tightening the surface, then fortifying the skin’s ability to hold natural collagen. The effects are both immediate and long term.

Kiss crows’ feet goodbye with the arrival of Guerlain’s Abeille Royale Eye Care. Acting on three levels, this new beauty broth helps to do away with wrinkles and dark circles around the eyes by reweaving the skin’s mesh. The first stage sees the acceleration of tissue cells to damaged areas, which helps to smooth and tighten the skin around the eyes. The second phase improves tissue suppleness and the third stage reduces puffiness, leaving you bright eyed.

6&7 UNE 8 Guerlain 9 ATP 10 StriVectin-TL

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24/11/2011 10:17

Made in Italy

JBR Walk opposite Ritz Carlton Hotel Dubai-UAE Tel: +971 4 454 1338 Mobile: +971 55 765 9729

SCENTS OF DIRECTION And they say women are indecisive... If you can’t decide which male scent to snap up, let Concierge lead the way

1. THE GOLDEN SECRET BY ANTONIO BANDERAS This latest celebrity scent for men comes from actor Antonio Banderas. Like the man himself it embodies charm and passion 2. CAPTAIN AMERICA BY DIESEL Bring out your inner superhero with Diesel’s new secret formula. Captain America is an explosive aroma of woody tones and oriental tangs 3. ARAMIS IMPECCABLE Reminiscent in texture and design of a finely tailored tuxedo, this scent mixes trails of black pepper with citrust zest and essence of Moroccan cedarwood 4. PACO RABANNE 1 MILLION The flamboyant 1 Million fragrance has gone miniature, offering a go-anywhere aroma that leaves a trail of fresh, spicy leather in its wake

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ME N ’ S FRA GRA N CE S / S HOP

6. 5.

5. BULGARI MAN Let your imagination run wild with the bold blends of wood, which are mixed with a touch of bergamot and then offset by the gentle scents of violet 6. COOL WATER More than 20 years after its launch, Cool Water remains in the top five best-selling men’s fragrances worldwide with 14 bottles sold every minute 7. DUNHILL CUSTOM The crisp freshness of the quintessentially English Pippen apple mixed with spicy black pepper and warm cedarwood creates a unique aroma that sets its wearer apart 8. L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR L’EAU DE L’ARTISAN Unisex scent L’artisan Parfumeur L’eau De L’artisan delivers intense flavours of lemon, verbena, mint and basil for a fresh and intense aroma

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23/11/2011 12:07

Taste Health kick

Suffering from menu envy? The Fairmont Dubai has created Lifestyle Cuisine, a range of dishes designed for those with even the trickiest of dietary restrictions. Whether you suffer from allergies, health problems or youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on a strict weight-loss programme, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no excuse for missing out on the tastiest dishes. Contact: 04 3325555.

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Christmas unwrapped It’s party time, so look out for festive fairs, merry markets and seasonal celebrations this Yuletide

Q Raffles Dubai The countdown to Christmas begins at Raffles Dubai, where guests are invited to the advent calendar opening from December 1 to 24. Standing seven metres high, this bumper-sized calendar is bursting with exciting gifts and giveaways. You can also enjoy a quintessentially British experience at Raffles Salon where a festive-themed afternoon tea, priced at AED199 per couple, will be served from 2 to 7pm from December 1 to 24. Enjoy a selection of scrumptious sandwiches and pastries, as well as holiday delicacies accompanied by an assortment of gourmet teas and coffees. You can’t beat the warm, welcoming environment at Azur, where a Christmas Day roast will be served on December 25. We suggest you put the weighing scales to one side and indulge in the culinary delights, which include tender roast turkey, cranberry sauce and seasonal tipples such as mulled wine and Champagne. Prices start at AED299 per person without alcohol and AED150 for children between the ages of six to 11 (children under six dine for free). There’s also special entertainment for little ones, because the big man from the North Pole will be dropping in for a spot of present giving in the afternoon. Contact: 04 3149888

FE S T I V E S E A S ON / t a s t e

t a st e /FES TIVE S EA S O N

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai While the sun’s beating down outside, indoors at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, an enchanting blend of winter magic is brewing. Every day from December 1 to 30, hot roasted chestnuts will be on sale at the Levantine Terrace. You can also meander through the Christmas shops at Rostang and the Hospitality Lounge, where a variety of goodies, including chocolate tree decorations, panettone and mince pies are on offer. Just when you thought things couldn’t get any more festive, on December 25 book in for brunch, lunch or dinner at either Kaleidoscope or Saffron and be privy to a special appearance from Santa and his elves. Alternatively, head to Seafire Steakhouse from 12 to 4pm and enjoy hearty holiday dishes. Prices start at AED295 per person for the set menu. Contact: 04 4262626

Madinat Jumeirah Dreading the thought of Christmas shopping? From December 8 to 26, take a wander through the Souk Madinat Jumeirah’s dazzling holiday market and get into the seasonal spirit. Along with evening performances from carol singers and regular appearances from Santa, the magical market is the perfect place to pick up everything from glittery gifts to twinkling tree decorations. Over at Pierchic in Al Qasr the festivities will be in full swing on December 25. Situated at the end of a wooden jetty with views of the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, this is a fairytale setting for a traditional Christmas lunch. Tickle your tastebuds with the three-course Christmas menu, which includes half a bottle of bubbly, for AED650 per person. Head back on New Year’s Eve and enjoy a delicious five-course set menu, an open bar and a bottle of Champagne for AED4,200 per person. Contact: 04 3668888

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24/11/2011 12:06

VOLVO OCEAN RACE IS COMING TO ABU DHABI

THIS NEW YEAR

ARE YOU? 31 DEC 2011 - 14 JAN 2012

FREE ADMISSION

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The greatest ocean adventure on earth is coming to Abu Dhabi for a two-week stopover. Join us for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration in our specially created ‘Destination Village’ and soak up the excitement as the competing yachts – including our own ‘Azzam’ – arrive. Be part of this historic and epic celebration.

www.volvooceanrace abudhabi.com Presenting Sponsor

Official Hotel

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11/1/11 12:09 PM

t a st e /FES TIVE S EA S O N

The Palace – The Old Town To mark the holiday season, join the merry men and woman at The Palace – The Old Town. On December 6 executive chef Jean Luc Morcellet will lead a culinary demonstration on how to prepare a delicious festive feast. Then, on December 17 children can enjoy the Elves’ Tea Party in the Royale Ballroom. Santa will be present for the specially prepared kids’ buffet, where little creative types can indulge in face painting and storytelling, followed by the lighting of the tree in the hotel lobby. Skip forward to Christmas Day and tuck into a festive brunch at Ewaan. For AED500 per person, expect traditional roast turkey, stuffing, seasonal vegetables and a variety of alcoholic beverages. Contact: 04 4287888

Skip forward to Christmas Day and tuck into a festive brunch at Ewaan. For AED500 per person, expect traditional roast turkey, stuffing, seasonal vegetables and a variety of alcoholic beverages

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t a st e /FES TIVE S EA S O N

Falls Lobby Lounge is transformed into a magical market where you can splash out on tasty treats such as stollen, Christmas cookies and gingerbread houses, as well as seasonal decorations and charms WINTER IN THE SUN

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

Ski Dubai

For a taste of tradition take a trip to the Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach. From December 8 to 26 Falls Lobby Lounge is transformed into a magical market where you can splash out on tasty treats such as stollen, Christmas cookies and gingerbread houses, as well as seasonal decorations and Yuletide charms. To really embrace the Christmas spirit, get there on December 8 for the lighting of the tree, which is followed by a few festive favourites from the in-house choir. On Christmas Day book a table at The Talk Restaurant & Lounge and enjoy the Nordicthemed Christmas evening buffet. The menu is festive with a Swedish twist, so expect sumptuous seafood and grilled meats, along with succulent roast turkey with all the trimmings. The package is priced at AED165 with soft drinks or AED250 with selected alcoholic beverages. Kids under 12 dine for free and can visit the Kids’ Corner, where Santa will be in residence for the evening.

If you’re looking for a real winter wonderland, head to Ski Dubai. Santa and Mrs Claus will be joined by Frostbite the polar bear to welcome you to the fun-filled snow park. Visit www.skidxb.com for details.

Contact: 04 4498888

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www.frey-wille.com vienna, austria

Dubai: Deira City Centre, tel. +9714 29 59 331 Mall of the Emirates, tel. +9714 34 10 011 | Mirdif City Centre Tel: +9714-28 43 628

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AR A BI C RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

ARABIAN NIGHTS Enjoy Arabic food at its best in Dubai’s top Middle Eastern restaurants

Q Al Iwan As you’d expect from the Burj Al Arab, the décor in Al Iwan is bold, gold and gloriously grand. The food is served on fine burgundy and white china plates and the wine is poured into 10-inch-high glasses. This sets the scene for a dazzling dinner, and while we’re pleased to report the menu is tantalising, it’s also traditional, simple and devoid of any of the pretensions you might expect from such a luxurious restaurant. From the lamb mushroom moufaraka to the deliciously tender chicken mloukia, the main dishes, while melt-in-the-mouth, have a down-to-earth and uncomplicated air about them. It’s a similar story with the desserts and the pistachio mahfrookah definitely gets the thumbs up. While Al Iwan lacks the three common traits usually associated with Arabic dining – live music, belly dancing and shisha pipes – that’s exactly what makes it an appealing prospect for visitors. After all, sometimes it’s quite nice to enjoy your meal without the encumbrance of loud music and sweet, fruity smoke wafting around you. Location: Burj Al Arab / Taste: Lamb biryani Open: Daily 6pm to midnight / Contact: 04 3017600

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t a st e /A RA B IC RES TA U RA NTS

Na3Na3 Tucked away in The Address Dubai Mall is the rather unassuming Na3Na3 (pronounced na-na). Awash in cool creams and clean lines, at first glance there are few visual clues to tell you that Na3Na3 is an Arabic restaurant. But then you sample the food and it becomes clear why this sleekly designed buffet eatery is fast gaining a reputation as one of Dubai’s hot dining spots. While the buffet concept may not be to everyone’s taste, don’t be too hasty with your judgment, at least not until you’ve tried the grilled kofta, which comes perfectly cooked and full of flavour. Similarly the fluffy saj bread is undeviating in tastiness and perfect for scooping up the wide assortment of mezze. If you like to mix and match cuisine, a generous section of the buffet is dedicated to Mediterranean dishes. While it’s a crime to miss out on the kofta, the spicy gazpacho is a tasty treat. For dessert opt for the tiramisu. Coffee-soaked ladyfingers and fresh mascarpone cheese make this sweet a top choice. Location: The Address The Dubai Mall / Taste: Shish taouk Open: Daily 6.30 to 11pm / Contact: 04 4388888

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26/11/2011 12:32

UAE, Abu Dhabi Marina Mall, Dubai Festival Centre - KSA, Red Sea Mall Jeddah - Al Khobar Rashid Mall - Bahrain, Bahrain City Centre Ferrari.com

t a st e /A RA B IC RES TA U RA NTS

The surroundings are the first selling point of this five-star Arabic eatery. Situated on the beachfront at Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa the outdoor area is encircled by elegantly swaying palm trees Al Khaima There are plenty of simple spots in Dubai to get your fix of Arabic fare, but if you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, Al Khaima is a must-try. Alfresco dining at its best, the surroundings are the first selling point of this five-star Arabic eatery. Situated on the beachfront at Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, the outdoor seating area is encircled by elegantly swaying palm trees and gloriously authentic majlis tents. The dominant theme on the extensive menu is hot and cold mezze, and the staff, who are known for their warm and friendly approach to service, are on hand to direct you in your selection. Top choices include the Arabic staples such as tabouleh and the delicious chicken grill. Location: Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Taste: Chicken grill Open: Daily 7pm to 1am Contact: 04 3995555

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t a st e /A RA B IC RES TA U RA NTS

Al Sarab The Holiday Inn in Al Barsha is home to a hidden gem of Arabic cuisine – Al Sarab. Live music and authentic Lebanese flavours make for an unforgettable culinary experience and executive chef Sameh Youssef has done a sterling job with the menu, which includes many signature creations and a variety of tempting dishes from Beirut. A basket of steaming white bread lands on your table on arrival and is the first sign you’re in for a treat. But be careful not to fill up too early. In particular, leave some space for the juicy makanek (lamb sausages marinated in pomegranate). The beef kebab is also not to be missed and for foodies with a sense of adventure, try the kebbeh orfalieh, a delicious raw lamb dish that explodes with flavour as soon as it touches your lips. While Al Sarab errs on the smaller side (there are only 20 tables in total) it has a cosy, intimate quality to it, making it the ideal spot for a romantic tête à tête. Location: Holiday Inn Al Barsha Taste: Kebab Al Sarab Open: Daily 7pm to 3am Contact: 04 3234333

While Al Sarab errs on the smaller side (there are only 20 tables in total) it has a cosy, intimate quality to it, making it the ideal spot for a romantic tête à tête

Café Arabesque While the dress code is casual, everything else at Café Arabesque, from the twinkling candle lights to the minimalist décor, screams elegance. Inspired by the flavours of the Levant region, with a heavy emphasis on grilled meats, mezze and kebab dishes, you can expect an array of culinary delights from Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. The desserts are all displayed buffet-style and as well as sweet staples such as cheesecake and mixed fruit you can find traditional Arabic puddings like kunafa (a sweettasting pastry dish). With buffets, set menus and à la carte dishes available, Café Arabesque has such a varied bill of fare that it will satisfy the most timid of diners, right the way through to the most adventurous. Location: Park Hyatt Dubai Taste: Grilled mince with Arabic bread Open: Daily 6.30pm to midnight Contact: 04 6021234

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Taste of the UAE In honour of National Day Concierge shines a light on the delicious UAE cuisine just waiting to be discovered

France has escargots and frogs’ legs, England serves up fish and chips, Germany snacks on sauerkraut and the US is the home of the burger in a bun, but what does the UAE bring to the culinary table? Local cuisine is uncomplicated and relies on meat, fish and rice as basic staples, enhanced by the creative use of spices and other aromatic flavourings. The cooking style retains its down-to-earth origins and reflects the development of the country, as traders introduced exciting new ingredients to the kitchens of the fisherman, farmer and Bedouin. We rarely encounter the authentic Emirati dishes still enjoyed by many local families today, such as the exotic-sounding harees, thareed and regaag. The traditions of giving and receiving hospitality is a cultural value that is deeply embedded in the Arab world. The hospitable nature of the Bedouin people is legendary and traditionally it was required that any visitor was welcomed, refreshed and hosted for three days before they continued their journey. This naturally extends to food and drink, and any meal enjoyed with a local host will be a memorable one. From a welcoming cup of coffee – gahwa – before a business meeting, to the partaking of a celebratory

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L oca l f l a v our/ T A S T E

D o i t yo u r s e l f To make your own biz’har, mix together cinnamon, paprika, cumin, fennel, coriander, black peppercorns, dried red chillies, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom and turmeric powder.

feast of ouzi – a whole roast lamb stuffed with fragrant rice – a local meal is as much about the experience and the symbolism as it is about the delicious food. While the majority of dishes that you may try as part of an Arabic meal are associated with Lebanese and Egyptian cuisine with a touch of other culinary influences, there are several dishes that are in essence Emirati. Rice, which has long been a highly prized commodity, is at the centre of most meals, either used as an accompaniment to savoury stews – saloona – with their thick tasty gravies, or as a flavourful dish in its own right, in the form of a taste-packed biryani or onionscented vermicelli rice. Peanuts and potato chips are replaced by bowls of flavoured chickpeas (dango) and broad beans (barjilla) as healthy pre-dinner snacks. At the very heart of local cuisine is a spice mix called biz’har. A secret blend of ingredients, often personalised from family to family, this adds unique flavour to many dishes. The use of loomi, which are sun-dried lemons or limes used in powdered or reconstituted form, gives an intrinsically local flavour. Bread comes in many forms, both sweet and savoury. Regaag is a thin bread prepared over a griddle and drizzled with oil before being folded and eaten hot with fresh honey or filled with other items like chickpeas. Breakfast breads include mohalla, a flatbread eaten with honey and date syrup and khamir, a thicker version. Another breakfast dish is balaleet, a fine egg pasta with onions, cinnamon, sugar and oil. Ramadan, Eid and other big celebrations such as weddings are the time to enjoy dishes like harees and machboos which is rice, onions and meat seasoned with spices, salt and loomi. The ingredients are cooked together with the exception of the rice, which is added halfway through the cooking time, for a deliciously tasty one-pot meal.

Another favourite, especially during the month of Ramadan, is thareed. This dish is made with saloona (a meat and vegetable stew), which is poured over a bed of warm regaag pieces. Desserts don’t feature prominently on the menu, but lugamat is the local version of a fresh doughnut, with small balls of hot deep-fried dough eaten with sweet date syrup. Khabeesah, which is roasted flour, water, sugar and saffron, and a sweet treat called asseada, made from semolina and saffron are also popular desserts. To sample traditional Emirati cuisine visitors should take a trip to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). The centre, which is located in Bastakiya, one of the oldest areas of the city, offers a variety of interactive programmes for visitors and many can be experienced over a spread of authentic Emirati cuisine. The programmes are extremely popular because they give visitors the opportunity to taste the time-honoured culinary delights, while also learning about many other aspects of Emirati life. In addition to being an enjoyable culinatry experience the tours are a fantastic way to develop your knowlege of the region and the rich history that goes with it. For more information about SMCCU visit www.cultures.ae

1 Lamb Medfoun 2&3 Regaag 4 chicken tahta braised with pepper, tomatoes and herbs

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24/11/2011 14:34

experience Camel polo

Play the sport of kings, queens and maharajas at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. Instead of the traditional game which is played by individuals on horseback, you’ll have the unique opportunity to ride two-at-a-time on these extraordinary creatures, nicknamed ‘ships of the desert’. For more information visit www.gulfventures.ae

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swing into action Winner of last year’s Dubai World Championship, Robert Karlsson, talks to Concierge about growing up on the greens and defending the title

Q Words by ALAN EWENS

Twelve months ago, Sweden’s Robert Karlsson captured the biggest title of his career in a play-off against Ian Poulter in the Dubai World Championship presented by DP World – now considered the grand finale in the European Tour season. This month the towering 6ft 5in 2008 European number one is back in Dubai to defend his crown in an all-star line-up that features the world’s top three players and a chance to take a share of US$7.5 million (AED27.5 million) in prize money, as well as a slice of the US$7.5 million (AED27.5 million) bonus pool. It’s a far cry from his early days in Sweden when a young Robert literally grew up on a golf course in a country that had very little in the way of golfing pedigree. “My dad was a green keeper in Sweden so I was very young when I started playing golf, probably around six or seven,” he says. “We actually lived on a golf course, which was unusual in Sweden at the time as very few golf courses had properties on them. “Golf wasn’t a big sport in Sweden when I started out. Our club had 400 members back then, while there are about 1,600 members at the club now. There are now around 600,000 golfers in Sweden out of a population of nine million, which is a big growth in the game over the past 30 years.”

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2 1 Robert Karlsson (previous page) 2 Jumeirah Golf Estates

Today, with career winnings of over €14 million (AED70 million), an Order of Merit title, 11 European Tour wins and World and Ryder Cup success to his name, Karlsson is considered one of the world’s best. But it hasn’t always been a career at the top of the leader board. Unlike many of today’s top pros, Karlsson opted not to enter the US college system. Once he was good enough, a place on the Swedish national team beckoned and with it the opportunity to turn pro or go to college in the US. Karlsson opted to try his luck on the Swedish Tour in 1989.

Winning streak After a successful spell, he earned his playing card for the full European Tour and embarked on what has been a rollercoaster of a journey, seeing him reach the heights of European number one in 2008 before a debilitating eye injury forced him out of

the game for several months in 2009. Today, however, he is stronger than ever and fully focused on the future. “I can safely say that it was a pretty rough road up to the game I play now,” he adds. “Starting out as a golf professional is a big insecurity. You literally have to pay a lot of money to go to work, as there are no guarantees when you start out. It’s a very insecure business. “It really helps if you have a sponsor or some small company that wants to back you but I suppose that sort of insecurity keeps you disciplined and dedicated. “Of course, the money available on tour is a great bonus and we are fortunate enough to be able to play for it – but if we don’t play well, then we don’t get paid. I would play anyway even if there was no money involved.” Fortunately for the Swede, there are still plenty of financial benefits from performing well in world golf.

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IT’S YOUR TURN TO DISCOVER ITALY

It’s the beauty of the road. It’s the magic of the Amalfi Coast. From the Alps, to the last spoonful of Gelato, at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the beauty of Ferrari is in the air. When you visit the world’s first Ferrari branded theme park, you’ll finally have the chance to live the Ferrari dream in ways you never imagined possible. The experience is yours like never before, with over 20 rides and attractions in the world’s largest indoor theme park.

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3&4 Karlsson at the trophy presentation 5 Rory Mcllroy and Lee Westwood

Victory at last year’s Dubai World Championship presented by DP World boosted his bank account by a handsome US$1.25 million (AED4.6 million) but Karlsson admits to taking nothing for granted as he prepares to defend his crown at the Earth course, Jumeirah Golf Estates, from December 8 to 11. “I’m looking forward to coming back again but I will treat the event as something new – I’ll be starting from scratch,” he says. “I’ll try to feed off the positive memories from last year but the fact that I won in 2010 won’t be uppermost in my mind.” Thanks to the likes of Karlsson and compatriots like Henrik Stenson, Jesper Parnevik and, of course, Annika Sorenstam,

Starting out as a golf professional is a big insecurity. You literally have to pay a lot of money to go to work, as there are no guarantees when you start out. It’s a very insecure business

Swedish golf is now recognised worldwide. So what does the defending champion believe is the reason for the Scandinavian surge? “I think one of the reasons is because it is quite cheap to play in Sweden. A few expensive clubs have sprung up but overall golf is still very accessible. We Swedes are pretty sporty people overall and we like to play sports that can involve every member of the family – and golf is a game like that.” Despite his physical presence, Karlsson is a quiet and modest individual who hasn’t forgotten his roots. During Karlsson’s early years there were plenty of people who invested time in his game. It’s a period that has stuck with him and the 42-year-old father of two believes in paying it forward. Launched in 2006, his Open Key Foundation acts as a door opener for individuals, businesses and organisations that otherwise might not have the means to develop. “I started the foundation to allow me to use some of my prize money for the benefit of others. It’s my way of sharing my good fortune with others.

Dubai World Championship Now in its third year, the Dubai World Championship will take place from December 8 to 11 on the lush green fairways of Jumeirah Golf Estates. Played on the spectacular Greg Norman-designed Earth course, the four-day competition will see the European Tour’s top 60 players battle it out for the trophy and a share of the US$7.5 million prize money.

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H RO N I S F

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“It can be anything from providing the funding of English lessons for a Turkish golfer making his way on the circuit to a year of singing lessons for a young Swedish girl who has gone on to sing the lead in the Swedish staging of High School Musical.” Karlsson allocates around 10 to 15 percent of his prize money to the foundation. And it’s not just the recipients of the funds who benefit from these rewards. “It also helps me if I am on the course and nothing much is going well for me. I can think about what I can do for others by winning and that spurs me on to do better. “It’s great to know that I can make a difference. There are a lot of people who are talented but need a helping hand financially. When I started playing golf as a child in Katrineholm, there were many adults around me who spent time and shared their experience so I could develop as a person and as a golfer. I know if they had not invested and believed in me, I would not be where I am today.”

It’s great to know that I can make a difference. There are a lot of people who are talented but who need a helping hand financially

6 18 th hole, Earth course 7 Robert Karlsson 8 Lee Westwood 9 Rory Mcllroy 10 Luke Donald

Stiff competition

Lee Westwood

English golfer Lee Westwood fought off stiff competition in 2009 to win the Dubai World Championship. In November 2010 he became world number one for the first time in his career, ending Tiger Wood’s five-year reign at the top.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

Rory Mcllroy

All the way from Northern Ireland, Rory rewrote the record books at the 2011 US Open by winning at Congressional Country Club with the lowest score in history – 16 par under.

Luke Donald

Luke Donald, from England, reached world number one in May 2011 with victory in the BMW PGA Championship, claiming victory after a thrilling battle with Lee Westwood.

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24/11/2011 12:12

Shortcut to wellness If globetrotting has put paid to your gym visits and diet regime, a detox treatment could save the day

Spa InterContinental European Detox This indulgent spa at Dubai Festival City is a haven of relaxation, comprising 10 treatment rooms, two couples’ rooms and a private VIP suite. If jetlag has left you feeling washed out, book in for the 90-minute European Detox. Designed to tackle dry areas of the body, this pampering session begins with a 30-minute body scrub. A blend of natural salt, infused with essential oils, the scrub helps to improve circulation, while also enhancing lymphatic drainage. Afterwards you’ll be bound up in a seaweed body wrap, which helps to eliminate excess weight and also improves skin tone. Afterwards your therapist will give you a pressure points head massage and a one-hour full-body massage. The essential oils used in the massage contain black pepper and lime, which warm the muscles and break down toxins. Where: InterContinental, Dubai Festival City When: 8am to 10pm / Cost: AED625 / Contact: 04 7011111

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, DIFC Hydrating Mud Cocoon Before you head to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, have a browse through your iPod for some tunes, because at this five-star sanctuary you have the option to choose your own background music. This is just one of the examples of outstanding service at The RitzCarlton Spa. Another is the Hydrating Mud Cocoon, an 80-minute body scrub and wrap treatment. The pampering session begins with a full-body scrub using Ila Himalayan Salt. Imported from Eastern Pakistan, these salt crystals are considered to be the most mineral-rich in the world. The exfoliation takes 20 minutes and is followed by a 15-minute body wrap. A quick shower washes you clean and then it’s time for the full-body massage, which leaves your skin feeling smoother than ever. Where: The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC When: 11am to 8pm Cost: AED600 / Contact: 04 3722222

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Talise Ottoman Spa Talise Body Detoxifying Situated on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the Talise Ottoman Spa is not only one of the region’s most well-regarded spas, but also one of the most beautiful, with meandering walkways and beautifully landscaped gardens. Begin your journey of wellbeing, which combines the ancient healing philosophies of the Ottomans with modern spa technology and book in for the 90-minute Talise Body Detoxifying treatment. The spirulina algae and seaweed body mask contains essential vitamins and protein and helps to stimulate circulation. This is followed by a vigorous fullbody massage. Active plant oils and enzymes penetrate your skin and assist with the dispersion of toxins, leaving you refreshed and revitalised. Where: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray / When: 9am to 9pm / Cost: AED695 / Contact: 04 4530000

Rich in antioxidants and containing key ingredients such as amino acids and vitamins A, C and E, the mask helps to reactivate healthy cell functions and increases your cell renewal rate Spa at The Address Downtown Dubai Detox Facial This is the perfect place for dissolving stress and revitalising the mind and body. Enjoy a post-travel pickme-up in the form of the 80-minute Detox Facial. Beginning with a gentle cleansing treatment, which is designed to remove all impurities from the skin, you’ll then be given a deep-tissue massage before a facial mask is applied. Rich in antioxidants and containing key ingredients such as amino acids and vitamins A, C and E, the mask helps to reactivate healthy cell functions and increases your cell renewal rate, delivering instant firmness and long-term radiance to your skin. After your treatment, head to the idyllic relaxation room which overlooks The Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa. With a steady flow of ginger tea and views over one of the most scenic developments in Dubai, you’ll never want to leave this peaceful urban retreat. Where: The Address Downtown Dubai / When: 9am to 10pm Cost: AED635 / Contact: 04 4368888

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dolphin days Playful, friendly and extremely intelligent, an encounter with these popular marine mammals is sure to be a highlight of any visit

Q W o r d s b y A M A N D A T O M L I N SO N

Around the world, dolphin shows and interactive programmes are incredibly popular and Dubai is no different. Since opening in November 2008, Dolphin Bay at Atlantis, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai has educated thousands of visitors about these gentle mammals through fun and hands-on experiences. Dolphin Bay is the largest coastal dolphin habitat in the world, spanning 4.5 hectares with three interaction pods, and has a family of dolphins, mostly the Indo-Pacific bottlenose species. The friendly creatures participate in the interactions on a rotational basis, depending on their health, mood and the type of interaction, giving visitors the chance to get up close and personal. The interaction takes approximately 90 minutes and involves a lesson about dolphins and how they are trained, and a brief run-through of the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programme. Then there are 30 minutes in the water.

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Back to school After changing into the wetsuits and lifejackets provided, the guests meet in a briefing room. Here they learn about dolphin behaviour, training methods, the types of dolphins at the facility and some of the activities they will experience. It takes approximately two years of training before a dolphin is ready to work with the public. The trainers at Dolphin Bay use positive reinforcement so the dolphins are rewarded with food or affection when they perform a task correctly. The same philosophy applies when they display behaviour that is not desired. Rather than chastising or punishing the dolphin, they are simply ignored and not rewarded. They soon learn that good behaviour equals rewards. Guests also learn about dolphin physiology, such as where to find the creature’s ears or how trainers identify the different dolphins at the facility. Time is also dedicated to explaining how the dolphins are cared for and the importance of conserving marine life.

The trainers at Dolphin Bay use positive reinforcement so the dolphins are rewarded with food or affection when they perform a task correctly

A b o u t D o l p h i n Bay • Dolphin Bay is the largest coastal dolphin habitat in the world • I t has three interaction lagoons over 4.5 hectares • T he habitat provides seven resident pools, shelter from inclement weather and almost 26 million litres of seawater • T he deep water interaction takes place in water up to three metres deep and is reserved for competent swimmers • T he shallow water interaction is held in waist-deep water

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Where all your wishes come true

Raffles Celebrations Brimming with festive cheer, all our restaurants and bars have an exciting choice of Christmas and New Year celebrations for you and your family to enjoy. You can also stay in luxury amidst the enthralling festivities, on special seasonal packages. If you need inspiration for festive presents, our â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gift of Living Wellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; customised spa packages, stocking fillers or gift certificates are great ways to show how much you care. To make your booking, please call +971 4 324 8888 or email bookus.dubai@raffles.com www.raffles.com/dubai

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D o l p h i n fa c t s

Water baby

At birth, the average Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin is 70cm long and 15kg in weight

From the classroom to the lagoon, the guests are split into groups depending on their interaction; 10 or less people per group for the Atlantis Dolphin Encounter, which takes place in waist-deep water, and six or less for the Atlantis Dolphin Adventure, which is held in three-metre-deep water. The small sizes allow everyone to spend time with the dolphins. Stepping into the water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which is cool, but the perfect temperature for dolphins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; participants are asked to line up with their hands palm down on the surface of the water. Cathy, one of 26 dolphins at the park, glides just beneath the surface on her back, giving guests the chance to feel her soft spotty belly. Following from the earlier lecture, the dolphin trainer tells the group that just like humans, there are many features that help identify each dolphin. These include spots on the belly, which are similar to freckles; the shape of their head, or melon; the shape of their rostrum (snout); and any scars, in addition to their physical size. Like humans, dolphins come in all shapes and sizes. After the introduction and belly rub, the fun begins with Cathy offering a hug and kiss to each of the group members. Those feeling brave can return the favour by giving Cathy a kiss on the rostrum, making a perfect photo opportunity. Cathy follows with a warm hug, just to show how much she cares.

The average gestation period for a bottlenose dolphin is 10 to 12 months Dolphins can live to 40 or 50 years old Dolphins have acute hearing, which is thought to be up to 10 times better than that of a human Their vision is also far superior both in and out of the water

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From hugs to dances, Cathy then shows off her moves as guests provide encouragement by singing popular songs, the most noted being ‘I like to move it’. The young dolphin then demonstrates a hand spin. As the guest treads water, with one arm out and the other tucked in close, Cathy places her rostrum in the centre of the guest’s hand and swims, spinning the guest in a circle. On hearing the whistle, she darts back to the trainer for a fishy treat. Just as the saying suggests, good things come to those who wait and this rings true for the Atlantis Dolphin Adventure. The most anticipated activity is taking a ride with the dolphin as she swims on her back to the shore. Cathy glides up slowly so the guest, whose arms are out to the side, can grab hold of her pectoral fins and hold on for the belly ride. But the interaction isn’t over. After each guest has enjoyed a ride, Cathy gets in a few more belly rubs before showing how much she loves to jump out of the water, especially when it means fish. For anyone who loves animals, this experience is a real treat. The chance to get up close to a dolphin and interact with them in the water is something they will remember for a long time to come.

A q u at i c a d v e n t u r e • Anyone can take part in the shallow water interaction (Atlantis Dolphin Encounter), but to participate in the deep water option (Atlantis Dolphin Adventure), guests must be 12 years or older and 135cm or taller • Guests participating in the Atlantis Dolphin Adventure must be a minimum age of eight years old and be able to swim confidently • T he Atlantis Dolphin Encounter costs AED595 (AED550 for Atlantis, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai hotel guests) until October 20 th while the Atlantis Dolphin Adventure is AED890 (AED725 for Atlantis hotel guests) • T his includes access to Aquaventure water park • Interactions last 90 minutes and include 30 minutes in the water • C all 04 4261030 for more information or visit www.atlantisthepalm.com

Creekside fun Dubai Dolphinarium at Dubai Creek also offers visitors the chance to swim with dolphins. Priced from AED400 per person in a group of up to six, the sessions last for 20 minutes. There are also dolphin and seal shows. Call 04 3369773 or visit www. dubaidolphinarium.ae

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24/11/2011 14:35

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my dubai

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Daphne Cota, exhibition director for The Bride Show, shares her tips for planning a truly special Dubai day

1 Dubai Museum 2 Cucina, JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

I moved to Dubai from Goa12 years ago and while I’ve been living in the UAE for over a decade, I still get homesick from time to time. When I’m feeling a little melancholy I book a table at Viva Goa, an authentic Goan restaurant in the Al Nasr Leisureland. Here you’ll find the best vindaloo in town. Eating out in general is a big part of Dubai life. For a great margarita pizza you can’t beat Cucina in JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, while The Meat Co. in Madinat Jumeirah has an amazing range of steak dishes. Spice Island in Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira is great if you’re looking for something a little different as it has a variety of live-cooking stations. For a girly night out you can’t beat Karma Café in Souk Al Bahar. With its low lighting and sleek Asian-inspired décor it has a super-chic ambience, which is ideal for a gaggle of girlfriends. When friends and family come to stay, I take them to Dubai Museum in Bur Dubai. With a rich collection of multimedia exhibits, artefacts and

aerial photographs of ‘old’ Dubai, Dubai Museum is a great way for visitors to gain a little insight into the local culture. Another must-visit is Heritage and Diving Village, located in the Al Shindagha area, which provides a glimpse of the days when pearl trading and fishing were the emirate’s main source of revenue. Afterwards I make sure we cross Dubai Creek on a traditional abra (water taxi), which is fun and out of the ordinary. There are also a lot of big events in Dubai and my favourite is The Bride Show, which will be held from April 4 to 7, 2012 at Dubai International Exhibition Centre. It’s important to remember that as well as Dubai, there are six other emirates in the UAE, which are all worth a visit. One of my favourite spots is Fujairah, which is on the east coast. I like to check into Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, where I enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation by the pool. Ras Al Khaimah also has some lovely spots to visit if you have the time.

With a rich collection of multimedia exhibits, artefacts and aerial photographs of ‘old’ Dubai, Dubai Museum is a great way for visitors to gain a little insight into the local culture

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Discover Dubai Museum

If the ultra-modern side of Dubai is all you know, step back in time at Dubai Museum. Located in Bur Dubai, inside the Al Fahidi Fort, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find artefacts, photographs and life-sized displays. Open Saturday to Thursday from 8.30am to 8.30pm and Friday from 2.30 to 8.30pm, admission is AED3 for adults and AED1 for children under six. Contact 04 3531862.

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24/11/2011 12:26

Fabulous at forty As the UAE gears up to celebrate its 40th birthday on December 2, Concierge looks at the incredible achievements of this young country

Q If you want to learn about the history of the UAE youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to dig a lot deeper than 40 years, because the earliest known habitation in this area stretches as far back as 5500 BCE. However, it was a historic day on December 2, 1971, when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruler from 1966 to 2004, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990, formed a union between their emirates and the neighbouring sheikhdoms, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ajman (Ras Al Khaimah joined in 1972). Prior to the agreement, the seven emirates had lived in relative harmony, united for many years through a treaty with Great Britain, which earned them the name, the Trucial States. Under the agreement, which was signed in 1892, the sheikhs agreed not to enter into any relationships with foreign governments or to dispose of any of their territories, except to Great Britain. In return, the United Kingdom offered protection to the Trucial States in the event of attacks by land or sea. It was a successful partnership, but in 1968 the United Kingdom announced that it would be ending its protectorate over the Trucial States, which left the area open to attack. In order to maintain security, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid reached out to their neighbours and in 1971 they signed the agreement, which signified the creation of the United Arab Emirates.

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N a t i o n a l D a y / DIS COVE R

COURTESY OF ARABIAN EYE

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DIS C O VER /N a tio na l Da y

Big steps

1 National Day celebrations (previous page) 2 Dubai Creek 3 Sheikh Zayed (centre) signs official documentation 4 Al Fahidi Fort

Fast forward to today and it’s clear that the rewards have been reaped. Billions of dollars have been spent on improving the infrastructure of the country and this year the UAE was ranked 14th in the world for doing business, in a survey published by the World Bank Group. The last decade in particular has seen rise to various high-flying projects, not least the 2010 unveiling of the world’s tallest tower – the Burj Khalifa (measuring 828 metres) and the development of the Dubai Marina – the largest man-made marina in the world. Another accomplishment has been the Dubai Metro, a fully automated, driverless network, which opened its doors to the public in September 2009. With a total of 87 fivecart trains operational on two lines (red and green) the Dubai Metro has offered an alternative form of transport for Dubai dwellers. Other economy-boosting projects include the Dubai International Financial Exchange, Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, which have provided a wealth of opportunity for Emiratis and expatriates alike. The UAE is also home to two of the fastest-growing airlines in the world – Emirates, the f lag carrier of Dubai, and Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE. Between them the airlines cover the globe and operate, on average, around 3,500 flights a week .

The last decade in particular has seen rise to various highflying projects, not least the 2010 unveiling of the world’s tallest tower – the Burj Khalifa

Rich history The combined union brought together thousands of years of rich history and heritage, and even at the time of the formation, the United Arab Emirates was regarded as a rich country. Traditionally the economy was rooted in pearl diving. Fishing and trading also supported the financial system, while further inland, money was made though date farming and camel herding. However, the First World War had a severe impact on the pearl industry and that, combined with the economic depression of the 1930s and the Japanese invention of the cultured pearl, resulted in a few very difficult decades for the area. Fortunately, in the early 1960s things began to look up when the first oil company teams arrived on these shores and carried out preliminary surveys. The first cargo of crude oil was exported from Abu Dhabi in 1962 and Dubai followed in 1969. Two years later the United Arab Emirates was formed and revenues were ploughed back in the country.

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N a t i o n a l D a y / DIS COVE R

Let’s celebrate With all this in mind it’s not surprising that for the last month the UAE community has been abuzz with a variety of events including poetry nights, beach football tournaments, art exhibitions and traditional band performances. The theme of the celebrations, ‘Spirit of the Union’, is inline with the memory of the late Sheikh Zayed. Often referred to as the nation’s ‘founding father’, Sheikh Zayed believed passionately in the union of the emirates and his spirit remains infused in many aspects of the nation’s heritage. Known for his respect for education, enthusiasm for the environment and above all, his desire to see the region progress to its full potential, the National Day programme has included many community-based activities and projects that will satisfy long-term goals within the region. The main aim of the spectacular events has been to encourage residents and guests of the UAE to celebrate the nation’s achievements, rich heritage and multicultural society. And the good news is that the fun isn’t over yet because the celebrations conclude in Abu Dhabi, which is approximately 145 kilometres from Dubai, in early December. On December 1 Yas Marina Circuit will play host to a vibrant parade featuring 5,000 traditional Emirati-themed cars, flags, musical performers and live entertainment acts. This will be followed on December 2 by the official ceremony at Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi and an impressive fireworks display at Abu Dhabi Corniche.

‘A nation without a past is a nation without a present or future’ – Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

5 UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan 6 Children celebrate National Day, 2009 7 Burj Khalifa 8 Dubai Marina

M a r k i t i n yo u r d i a ry… December 1 – Union Spirit

Kick off the celebrations at Creek Park where a variety of entertainers, musical acts and exciting activities mark the beginning of the merriment December 1 – Live Union

From 4pm, make your way to Heritage Village, where 14,600 balloons (which represent the number of days since the formation of the UAE) will be released into the air in honour of National Day December 1 to 3 – Meydan National Day Celebration

The Meydan plays host to an assortment of exciting events over a three-day period, including the UAE Ballooning Championship, the release of thousands of floating lanterns, face painting for children, a human flag formation and a VIP gala dinner December 1 to 3 – Historical Photo Gallery

Head to The Dubai Mall from 10am to peruse a striking exhibition of historic photographs which charter the growth of the UAE over the past 40 years December 2 – March of Loyalty for Sheikh Zayed 8

Join Emiratis and expatriates as they march down Jumeira Beach Road from 4pm in memory of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan

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the hustle and bustle of Age-old trade at the Dubai creek, deira dubai in 1979

PHOT O E S S A Y/ dis cove r

Step back in time A photo exhibition celebrates the 40th UAE National Day with amazing images taken more than 30 years ago

Q Words by SCOTT BIRCH

Between 1975 and 1980, Anita van der Krol-van Hasselt from the Netherlands took hundreds of black and white photographs of everyday life in the Dubai area. Living as an expat in Jumeira, she also became one of the first inhabitants of Jebel Ali village, close to Ibn Battuta Mall. The wife of a dredging engineer who worked on the Dubai Creek, Port Rashid and Jebel Ali â&#x20AC;&#x201C; work which helped to transform the emirate into an important centre of trade â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Anita was in a unique position to shoot pictures of Arab men, women and children. She managed to win their confidence and respect, as well as their permission to be photographed. The rapid rate of change in Dubai and the whole of the UAE means that it is hard to believe these images and the way of life they captured are only a generation or so ago. The dhow photographs from the creek, souk traders in Bur Dubai and oil barrels pulled through the streets of Jumeira by donkey and cart bear little resemblance to the shiny, stunning metropolis that Dubai has become in a few dramatic decades.

a local man passes down jumeira beach road in Dubai, as he transports a barrel of shell oil, 1975

Smiling for the camera, this local man was photographed in bur Dubai in the late 1970s

a local man Posing in traditional headdress, 1977

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PHOT O E S S A Y/ dis cove r

a very rare photograph of a pearl trader resting outside his shop in the sharjah souk, 1977

enjoying light refreshments at the pepsi terrace souk of dubai, 1978

TA K E A L O O K The photo exhibition takes place at Gallery One in Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach Residence until December 18. For information and to view more images from Anitaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection, please visit www.anitavanderkrol.com

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THE DON OF BRITISH CUISINE. NOW SERVING AT RHODES TWENTY10. Th e culinar y gri l l wi th a twi s t. F o r r e s e r v a t i o n s c a l l R h o d e s Tw e n t y 1 0 a t L e R o y a l M é r i d i e n B e a c h R e s o r t + S p a o n + 9 7 1 4 3 1 6 5 5 5 0

T OURI S T T RA I L / DIS COVE R

Home, sweet home

Explore Dubai’s history at the Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House

Home to the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai is a city that produces some of the most impressive modern architecture in the world. But amid the ever-changing skyline, which is populated by iconic masterpieces such as the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai it’s easy to forget that only 40 years ago Dubai was just a small fishing port. To step back in time and see this remarkable metropolis before the monumental modernisation, take a trip to Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House. The former residence of the ruler of Dubai from 1921 to 1958, the two-storeyed abode was continuously occupied until his death in 1958. It was then fully restored in 1986 and is now a museum and one of Dubai’s most famous landmarks. Seemingly unaffected by modern-day inflation, entry to the relatively modest residence, which is located along the Dubai Creek, is just AED2. For that you can spend as long as you want exploring the four wings and if you’re lucky you’ll also get a quick tour and some historical insight from the friendly and knowledgeable staff, many of whom have witnessed Dubai’s transformation first hand. Divided into four sections, each with wind towers (barjeels), it’s easy to see why Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum chose this retreat as his dwelling place. A born leader, he helped to pull Dubai out of an economic depression during the 1920s (due to its great reliance on pearling), and encouraged progressive trade policy across the emirate. Taking a seat in the serene Summer Majlis, with its basket roofing and pleasant views of Dubai Creek, you can imagine how the then ruler would have whiled away many hot summer months, contemplating the development of the busy metropolis we know today.

1&2 Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House

To learn about Dubai’s past, head to the downstairs gallery, which contains artefacts and historical photographs showcasing the city. Providing a glimpse into the traditional culture and lifestyle of ‘old’ Dubai, it’s only while casting your eye over the images and relics that you fully appreciate how far this magnificent city has come in four decades. Su r pr isingly, t he Shei k h Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House isn’t abuzz with culture vultures. It seems as though very few tourists venture through its sturdy wooden doors, which is a shame because it is a great attraction with many interesting features. That said, its quietness adds to the tranquil charm of the place, making it one of Dubai’s true hidden treasures. For more information call 04 3937139.

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Mission Incredible Burj Khalifa and Dubai play a leading role in the latest installment of the Mission Impossible series, Ghost Protocol

Q Words by SCOTT BIRCH

Film fans around the world will get the chance to see Dubai and in particular the Burj Khalifa on the big screen this month, with the release of Mission Impossible 4 – Ghost Protocol. Starring Tom Cruise, the fourth installment of the all-action series features one memorable scene where Cruise’s character, Ethan Hunt, climbs the outside of the world’s tallest building, as well as scenes in the desert and Dubai International Financial Centre. Shot in Dubai in October 2010, footage of the Burj Khalifa stunt became an instant YouTube sensation. Speaking at the press conference ahead of the filming, Cruise said: “Dubai is very cinematic. We are looking forward to present that on film. Dubai is a city I always wanted to shoot in. It’s a very challenging film and people here have been extraordinary in helping us get this project going.”

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MI 4 / DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER /MI4

The plot sees the Impossible Missions Force put to the test once again when it is implicated in the bombing of the Kremlin, forcing Hunt and his small team of agents to go it alone (under Ghost Protocol) to clear their names. As the movie tagline says, Hunt and his team have ‘No Plan. No Backup. No Choice.’ Cruise again proves his action credentials (as seen in previous MI outings, Minority Report and Collateral) and receives considerable support from Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg and Paula Patton. But you just know audiences are going to leave the theatre talking about those jawdropping Burj Khalifa scenes. Director Brad Bird was also full of praise for the city which offers a stunning canvas to work against, especially for his first live action movie. “It’s a big, new city that fortunately hasn’t been photographed very much,” he said. “Dubai has the scale that we are looking for – these are big movies – and sets that we could almost never afford to build.” Executive producer Jeffrey Chernov also gave Dubai a special mention and said it was the “perfect location” for Mission Impossible 4 – Ghost Protocol. “Every movie needs a heartbeat, a centrepiece, and the centrepiece of our movie is Dubai,” he said. Trailers for the film show stunning aerial footage of the Burj Khalifa and surrounding Downtown area, as well as those daring climbing stunts. With the film also being released on IMAX, it’s sure to be a visual sensation. But apart from the novelty of seeing Dubai on the big screen in a Hollywood blockbuster (and about time, too), Ghost Protocol also looks like a decent espionage adventure, well handled by director Bird.

“Dubai is a city I always wanted to shoot in. It’s a very challenging film and people here have been extraordinary in helping us get this project going” – Tom Cruise

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DIS C O VER /MI4

Mission Impossible 4 – Ghost Protocol

is released on December 15 in the UAE and will be premiered at Dubai International Film Festival

Director profile: Brad Bird Brad Bird is the man behind the camera on the action blockbuster Mission Impossible 4 – Ghost Protocol. While not professionally impossible, Bird is making his own leap of faith with this movie as it is the first he has directed – first live action movie anyway. Chances are you have seen a Brad Bird film, but as animation. Bird has thrown his creative force behind everything from The Simpsons to The Incredibles – the latter being one of his bigscreen successes. In fact, fans of The Incredibles will also be familiar with Bird the actor – he voices the fashion designer character Edna Mode. Other hits in the Bird directing résumé include Ratatouille and The Iron Giant, but it will be interesting to see how an award-winning digital visionary gets to grips with live action and its limitations. From what we have seen so far, expect Bird to make the most of the Dubai landscape that features prominently in the movie, with Burj Khalifa central to the plot.

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Gracing the Golden Age When it comes to elegance and glamour the leading ladies of Hollywood’s golden age inspired millions of women worldwide and none more so than the late (and great) Grace Kelly

Q Words by Rebecca Gabbai

These days it is common to see even the lowliest of celebrities gracing the red carpet in the latest couture creations and statement jewels. But in Hollywood’s golden age celebrity recognition and endorsement was a privilege enjoyed by a select few of the cinema glitterati. Luxury brands and high jewellers were quick to see the value of product placement – on and off screen – which meant that the leading ladies of yesteryear were never without their luxury wares. The 1950s and 1960s saw many screen sirens adorned in finery. Audrey Hepburn was bejewelled in Tiffany & Co. diamonds in the aptly named Breakfast at Tiffany’s, while Marilyn Monroe donned the famous DeBeers ‘Moon of Baroda’ diamond for her role in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Similarly, who could forget the legendary Taylor-Burton diamond? The 69.42-carat gem was cut from a D-colour flawless stone and purchased by Richard Burton for his stunning wife Elizabeth Taylor. Taylor wore the diamond for the first time when she attended the 40 th birthday celebrations of Grace Kelly, the Princess of Monaco.

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GRA CE KE L L Y/ DIS COVE R

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GRA CE KE L L Y/ DIS COVE R

1 ‘The Years of Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco’ exhibition, Brazil, May 2011 2 Grace Kelly attending a function with her husband Prince Rainier III

“I believe that it is right to honour all those who create beautiful things and give satisfaction to those who see me wearing them” – Grace Kelly

It must have been a meeting of minds for the two Hollywood icons because, like Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Grace of Monaco was revered for her sense of style and great beauty. With a career that saw her take both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award, Princess Grace’s talent was recognised at a young age. Indeed, her high school yearbook described her as ‘Miss Grace P. Kelly – a famous star of stage and screen’. Ignoring her father’s initial misgivings about an acting career, Grace moved to Manhattan straight out of school and paid her way with modelling work. She got her first break in 1951 in the movie Fourteen Hours after charming legendary movie star Gary Cooper. She subsequently won a co-starring role opposite him in High

Noon the following year. From there, Grace became unstoppable. Winning awards for her performances, she worked with a dazzling list of actors and directors including Cary Grant, James Stewart and Alfred Hitchcock. 1954 was dubbed the ‘Year of Grace’ by Life Magazine because of her stellar rise to stardom. The following year, in April 1955, she was chosen to head the US delegation to the Cannes Film Festival and was invited to participate in a photo session at the Palace of Monaco. It was there that she met the handsome and charismatic Rainier III, Prince of Monaco and her life changed forever. A year later, in April 1956, she boarded the SS Constitution on an 80-day journey to the French Riviera, during which she embarked on

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

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

deceMber 2011 | issue 88

dubai edition

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE aBu dhaBi editio edition

september 2011 | issue 58

OCTOBER 2010 | issuE 47

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

abu dhabi edition

T H E D E F I N I T I V E F I V E - S T A R V I S I T O R M A G A dECEmbEr Z I N E2010 | issuE 76

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

JuNE 2011 | issuE 82

T H E D E F I N Idubai T I edition VE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

JuNE 2011 1 | issuE 82

september eptember 2011 | issue 58

dubai edition du

Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone

GRA CE KE L L Y/ DIS COVE R

the ultimate fairytale, marrying Rainier III and becoming Princess Consort of Monaco. Retirement beckoned and Princess Grace vowed never to star in another film. However, while her Hollywood days were over, her life as a style icon was only just beginning. Being exposed to a wider international audience and dressing the part of a princess gave Grace a serene, ethereal quality. She made the International Best Dressed list in 1960 and from there her jewellery, fashion and all-round elegance made her one of the most admired women in the world. Sadly, she lost her life in a car accident in 1982, which prompted worldwide mourning. Nevertheless, while Princess Grace may be gone, she is far from forgotten and her legacy lives on through luxury, beauty and style. From the styling in the hit series Mad Men to luxury handbags such as the Hermés Kelly Bag, Grace Kelly’s influence is as timeless as it is transcendent. Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Bulgari are just a few of the high-end brands to have dedicated lines in her memory and now there is a new tribute to the queen of

4 3&4 Montblanc’s Princess Grace De Monaco collection 5 ‘The Years of Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco’ exhibition

“I don’t want to dress up a picture with just my face.” – Grace Kelly

the screen. Under the patronage of HSH Prince Albert of Monaco, German brand Montblanc has premiered a new collection dedicated to Grace Kelly’s style and sophistication. Consisting of one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces, watches and pens, it is a fitting display of Montblanc’s craftsmanship and the perfect tribute to Princess Grace. Ultimately, the name Grace Kelly has become synonymous with the words ‘beauty’, ‘sophistication’ and ‘elegance’ and almost 30 years since her tragic death, Princess Grace of Monaco still has the power to influence style and glamour like nobody else.

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b r av o

Luxury

car

r e n ta l s

http://www.bravorentacardubai.com

the guide

shop / taste / experience / discover

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

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SHOP From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shopper’s dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

Though not a mall, this 1.7km-long shopping promenade, will eventually host nearly 300 retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue and Aiyanna of London.

New Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 4361000

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu to Sat 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

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am to midnight. Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

Downtown Dubai BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3198999

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

Timings: Daily 10am to

10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BURJUMAN

04 3520222

to midnight, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Metro: Nakheel Harbour & Tower Map reference: A1

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

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

Timings: Sat to Wed

LAMCY PLAZA

04 3359999

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

Timings: Daily 9am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 MERCATO

04 3444161

A Renaissance-styled mall on Jumeirah Beach Road featuring Pandora, Armani Junior, Gant, Virgin Megastore and a cinema.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D1 OASIS CENTRE

04 5154000

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

PALM STRIP

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 1pm and 7pm to midnight. Fri 7pm to midnight Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Wed

04 3600501

The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. Home to the world’s largest indoor gold souk, an Olympicsized ice rink and aquarium.

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

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

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

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

1. Sand art 2. Dubai Marina Mall 3. Spice Souk 4. Versace 5&6. Khan Murjan 7. Mercato

04 2249222

10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to 11pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1 GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

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

04 3414747

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

THE DUBAI MALL

04 3627500

THE VILLAGE

SHOPPING ETIQUETTE Women should make sure that shoulders and the top half of legs are covered in Dubai’s malls and souks. Keep in mind that the UAE is a Muslim country and respect its culture. Take care not to wear anything too revealing or suggestive. Comfortable, light clothing is recommended, but it’s wise to carry a wrap or jumper in shopping malls as the air conditioning can be chilly.

04 3494444

A selection of boutiques such as S*uce and Candella, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.

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

04 3418020

A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion. Also boasts the region’s only ice lounge.

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

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T HE GUI D E / S HOP

WAFI

04 3244555

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

SOUVENIR

IDEAS

800 6422

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: 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

Dubai Festival City/Deira

06 5316611

SAHARA CENTRE

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

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

AL GHURAIR CITY

04 2225222

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

SOUKS

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 ARABIAN CENTRE

04 2845555

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

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10.30pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3 DEIRA CITY CENTRE

04 2954545

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

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

04 3687070

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

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

04 2325444

Covering 204,000 sq m, this retail resort is home to 550 shops including Ikea and Marks & Spencer.

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

04 4234666

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3

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LABLE STABLE

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

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

Shisha, sometimes referred to as hubbly bubbly, is a water pipe used for smoking flavoured tobacco and can be found at cafés and bars across the city. This is an authentic and traditional souvenir that can be easily bought in Dubai. Tobacco and coals are also readily available. The khanjar is the traditional dagger of Oman, carried by men in a sheath, decorated with silver and worn on a belt similarly decorated. Ornamental and sometimes very elaborate daggers can be found in Dubai’s souks; a great souvenir reflecting the region’s customs. Gold is popular with tourists visiting Dubai. The Gold Souk is a must for those looking to buy jewellery at affordable prices. Dubai’s souks have a huge variety of original and authentic souvenirs such as carpets, calligraphy art, scarves, Arabic oudh (perfume), wooden camels, jewellery boxes and glass perfume bottles.

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.

REAL DEAL? The Gold Souk can be daunting, but don't be discouraged from taking the plunge. Find out the current price of gold per ounce from your concierge and decide whether the design you're considering is worth the added labour cost. The shops on the main streets tend to be more expensive than those in the smaller alleys, but are often more reputable.

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 10pm 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 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

INDOOR GOLD SOUK

TEXTILE SOUK Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.

04 3627500

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

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

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

MARKETS

04 3244555

Modelled on an ancient 14th century souk, Khan Murjan has more than 150 stalls offering traditional arts and crafts.

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

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

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

Open every first Friday of the month, this popular market held in Dubai Festival City, brings together artists and craftsmen.

04 3627011

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2

800 33232

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

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

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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 Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

Make your way to Choices every Friday for Indian night and indulge in the traditional Indian buffet for only AED179 per person Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Come Prima – Italian Choices – International Mawal – Arabic Rodeo Grill – American

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

04 3034222 Desert

Exclusive desert retreat. The restaurant and bars cater to guests only Al Diwaan – Arabic and Mediterranean

Al Manzil Hotel

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai This Downtown property offers a choice of dining options with all outlets linked to a central Arabian courtyard where shisha (hubbly bubbly) is served in the evening. Conservatory offers all-day dining Conservatory – International Courtyard Restaurant – International Nezesaussi – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Brunch lovers should try Double Decker's legendary Friday brunch. From 12 to 4pm AED169 buys you a tasty buffet and unlimited selected drinks Al Mawal – Arabic C-Bar by Crystal – Nightclub Double Decker – English Latino House Restaurant & Bar – South American Pergolas – International Waterside – Seafood Restaurant & Terrace Zaika Restaurant – Indian

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim Indulge in a Yuletide brunch at Pai Thai on December 25. For AED395 expect a delicious buffet, free-flowing house beverages, cocktails, lagers and soft drinks Al Fayrooz Lounge – Afternoon tea Al Hambra – Spanish Arboretum – International Khaymat Al Bahar – International Koubba Bar – Cocktail bar MJ'S – Steakhouse Magnolia – Vegetarian Pai Thai – Thai Pierchic – Seafood

Amwaj Rotana

Burj Al Arab

Dubai Marina

Jumeirah

04 4282000

Brandish your chopsticks at the all-you-can-eat dinner at Benihana, from AED199. The promotion runs every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday from 6 to 11.30pm Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian

Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club

04 3663000 Dubai

An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. The club is particularly popular amongst the emirate's expatriates Ranches Restaurant – International

Armani Hotel Dubai

04 8883888

Downtown Dubai Get festive at Armani/Ristorante where you can enjoy a Christmas-themed degustation menu from 7pm from December 22 to 25. Prices start at AED700 per person Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/MediterraNeo – Mediterranean Armani/Oasi – Bar terrace Armani/Privé – Lounge/nightclub Armani/Ristorante – Italian fine dining

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

04 4262626

The Palm Jumeirah Book in for brunch at Seafire on December 25 and enjoy a holiday-themed set menu for AED295 per person Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – Mediterranean Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International N'Dulge – Nightclub Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – American The Burger Joint – American diner

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

04 8096100 Desert

This charming desert retreat offers consistently good food most notably at Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant 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-themed bar

04 3017777

On New Year's Eve enjoy a Champagne reception at Sahn Eddar before dining in your choice of the Burj Al Arab's exclusive restaurants. After dinner, see in the new year with a Champagne toast while watching a magnificent fireworks display. Prices from AED7,450 per adult and AED 2,500 per child, inclusive of soft and alcoholic beverages. Babysitting services are available

Al Iwan – Arabic Al Mahara – Seafood Al Muntaha – International Bab al Yam – International Juna Lounge – Cocktail bar Junsui – Far Eastern Majlis Al Bahar – Beach lounge Sahn Eddar – Afternoon tea Skyview Bar – Cocktail bar

Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community

04 8852222

Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina – Italian Pine Grill – International The Bar – Casual bar

Crowne Plaza Dubai

800 276963

Sheikh Zayed Road Book a table before midnight for four guests at Zinc and receive a free bottle with every bottle purchased. The deal runs every day except Wednesdays and Saturdays Al Dana – International Al Fresco – Italian Al Tannour – Arabic Harvester’s Pub – English Oscar’s Vine Society – Wine bar Sakura – Japanese Trader Vic's – International Wagamama – Far Eastern Western Steakhouse – American Zinc – Nightclub

4 1. Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah 2. Al Murooj Rotana 3. Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community 4. Grosvenor House Dubai 5. Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites 6. Sakura – Crowne Plaza, Dubai 7. Sho-Cho – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa 8. Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa 9. Nasimi – Atlantis, The Palm

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

04 2625555 Deira

Do the countdown to 2012 at Spice Island on December 31. From 8pm to 3am enjoy a buffet dinner and alcoholic beverages. Prices start at AED499 per person Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

04 7012222

Dubai Festival City Flamenco your way into the weekend at Zaytoun's Latin Live night. With hot and cold tapas on the menu, as well as barbecue and live churros stations, you can enjoy sizzling flavours before hitting the dance floor for some serious salsa action. Prices start at AED185 per person Belgian Beer Café – European Eclipse – Cocktails Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

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Desert Palm Dubai

04 3238888 Desert

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa

Al Aqah Beach

Dubai Marina

09 2449888

An out-of-town location with a residential community is a winning combination “Epicure” The Gourmet Market – International Rare Restaurant – International The Jewel – Afternoon Tea

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

Out-of-town option that is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents. Fujairah is a neighbouring emirate on the east coast Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – Mediterannean

Grand Hyatt Dubai

04 3171234 Oud Metha

Multi-faceted dining and entertainment complex located in the heart of Jumeirah. Hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Arabic Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian Flooka – Mediterranean Loco – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Malecon – Cuban Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai Yia Yia – Greek

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

04 3194000

Dubai Marina Enjoy stunning views and delicious food at The Observatory’s Christmas-themed brunch. Running from December 23 to 25, prices start at AED300 for children aged six to 12, AED450 for adults (not including alcohol) and AED600 with free-flowing bubbly A.z.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road This distinctive property close to The Dubai Mall is home to one of the best Thai restaurants in the city Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International

Peppercrab is the only Singaporean-inspired restaurant in the city. Order the biggest crab you can find – your tastebuds will be rewarded Andiamo! – Italian Awtar – Arabic Cooz – Jazz bar iZ – Indian Manhattan Grill – American Panini – Italian deli and café Peppercrab – Singaporean Sushi – Japanese The Market Café – International Wox – Far Eastern

Grand Millennium Dubai

04 4299999 Al Barsha

Fine sushi awaits in Toshi while a singer often entertains diners in Dante Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian

Grosvenor House Dubai

04 3998888

Dubai Marina Experience truffles like never before at Sloane's Funghi Brunch. Running every Friday from 1 to 4pm this brunch is priced at AED220 per person Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – European Sidhartha Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Gallery – International Toro Toro – South American

taste of dubai This exciting food festival unites the city's most celebrated chefs, prestigious restaurants, premium beverage brands and famed food exhibitors for a gourmet extravaganza of epic proportions. Last year over 17,000 visitors attended Taste of Dubai and in 2012 the numbers are set to rise further. Taking place at Dubai Media City, from March 8 to 10, The Amphitheatre will be transformed into the most sensational alfresco venue in the city, playing host to a varity of exhibitors. The line-up for 2012 is impressive with renowned restaurants, such as Rhodes Twenty10 and Indego by Vineet, set to be involved. Tickets are priced at AED60 per day for advance bookings and AED75 if you buy on the door. Children under 12 are admitted for free. For more information about this event visit www.tasteofdubaifestival.com

This popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Luciano’s – Italian Salamar – Grill The Grand Grill – Steakhouse The White Lounge – Bar The Underground Pub – English

Hatta Fort Hotel

04 8523211 Hatta

Have an unforgettable Saturday night at Jeema restaurant and enjoy a sumptuous five-course dinner for AED395 per person Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Hilton Dubai Creek

04 2271111 Deira

Head to Issimo Bar & Lounge for pints of draught beer for AED20 Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Cocktails Table9 – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Catch the latest sports tournament at Studio One and enjoy bottled beer for AED25 Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE – Italian Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin Studio One – Bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

04 3234333

Sheikh Zayed Road For indulgent Italian cuisine, visit The Gem Garden every Sunday night for all-you-caneat Italian. The promotion costs AED120 per person Al Sarab – Lebanese Gharana – Indian Mojito – Cocktails Sushi Folie – Sushi the Gem Garden – International The Q – Sports bar The Royal Budha – Thai

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

Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Ibn Battuta Mall

Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah

04 4440000

The holiday season is in full swing at Al Bahou where you can enjoy a Christmas Day jazz brunch on December 25. With a wide variety of Yuletide treats, including roast turkey, mince pies and bubbly, prices start at AED295 with soft drinks, AED395 with selected beverages or AED495 with free-flowing Laurent-Perrier bubbles Chor Bazaar – Indian Diablo – Nightclub Mistral – Mediterranean Moroc – Lounge bar and terrace Shanghai Chic – Chinese Sicilia – Sicilian

hyatt regency dubai & galleria

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

Deira

Dubai Festival City

04 3172222

Head to The Kitchen every Thursday from 12.30 to 3pm for fragrant Indian cuisine. For AED135 per person you can enjoy an extensive buffet and soft drinks Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Bar Focaccia – Italian Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Kitchen – International

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

04 3324444 Zabeel

Cubo Pasta is a well-liked lunch spot for workers and delegates from the neighbouring World Trade Centre. Evenings can also get busy, with all-you-can-eat buffets being particularly popular Cubo Pasta – Italian

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Drinking in Dubai / Fast facts

04 3995000

04 7011111

From December 12 to 31 the InterContinental's lobby will be transformed into a traditional Christmas market. Head to Al Badia Golf Club on December 15 from 3 to 5pm for the Gingerbread House Decorating Day. Prices start at AED69 per gingerbread house Terra Firma – Steakhouse Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire – French

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

04 8145555 Jebel Ali

For a plentiful spread of German, Austrian and Swiss dishes, visit La Fontana for Alpenfest every Tuesday evening from 7 to 11pm. For AED190 (excluding drinks) you can enjoy a warm and welcoming buffet and a second person dines for free

04 3480000

Head to La Parrilla on December 25 for an à la carte festive brunch, from 12 to 4.30pm. Prices start at AED265 for children aged between four and 11, AED425 for children aged 12 to 20 and AED525 for adults 360° – Terrace bar Al Khayal – Arabic Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Marina – Seafood Palm Court – American/afternoon tea Uptown – Cocktails

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

04 3198088 DIFC

For some Christmas Eve fun head to Vu's on December 24. AED610 buys a four-course festive set menu, inclusive of soft drinks and a glass of bubbly Al Nafoorah – Arabic ET Sushi – Japanese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s – European

04 4530000

See in the new year at Al Nafoorah on December 31. A welcome reception is followed by a family-style degustation menu, inclusive of a full bar and selected wines. Bubbly will be served just before the clock strikes midnight. Prices start at AED1,850 per person. Children under 12 are not permitted for dinner Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – All-day dining Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese

Jumeira Rotana Hotel

04 3455888 Satwa

From 6 to 8pm daily you can enjoy selected beverages for as little as AED22 at Brauhaus' happy hour Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

04 2624444 Deira

Enjoy cheese fondue and raclette for AED99 every Tuesday night at Hofbräuhaus Bamboo Lagoon – Far Eastern Champions – American Cucina – Italian Hofbräuhaus – German JW's Steakhouse – American Mays El-Reem – Arabic The Market Place – International

Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Shooters – American Signatures – French White Orchid – Far Eastern

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LE MÉRIDIEN AL AQAH BEACH RESORT FUJAIRAH

09 2449000 Fujairah

Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Indian Ocean, this peaceful resort is surrounded by natural beauty

SMOKE SIGNALS

Deira

Check out Lebanese restaurant Al Diwan, featuring an Arabic singer, band and belly dancer

Dubai Marina Visit Waves and enjoy the Yum Cha Chinese tea Friday brunch with a lion dance, acrobats and tasty dishes such as miso soup and dim sum. The promotion runs from 1 to 4pm and costs AED299 per person

Al Diwan – Arabic Al Shindagah – International Downtown Bar & Grill – Steakhouse

MINA A' SALAM, MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim

Barasti – Beach bar Ciro’s Pomodoro – Italian The Dhow – Seafood Waves – International

The Wharf serves big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes or fries and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce for AED110 per person. The deal is available every Tuesday from 7pm

LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN BEACH RESORT & SPA

04 3165550

Dubai Marina

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

This sprawling five-star resort is home to an extensive selection of bars and restaurants Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Brasserie – International Fusion – Far Eastern Maya – Mexican Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar

For AED120 enjoy a two-hour unlimited food and beverage package in The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge. The offer runs from 2pm until late, Saturday to Thursday Café M – Coffee shop The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

MEDIA ROTANA DUBAI

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Make the most of the wonderful weather at The Terrace's alfresco Friday brunch, from 12 to 3.30pm. For AED199 you can enjoy the all-you-can-eat buffet Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

METROPOLITAN HOTEL DEIRA

04 2959171 Deira

Summer Place delivers a selection of authentic dishes Al Riqa Restaurant – International Dublin Arms – Irish Summer Place – Chinese

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The Red Lion features a beer garden with regular barbecues

04 2270000

04 3993333

Dubai Media City

Sheikh Zayed Road

METROPOLITAN PALACE HOTEL

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 4271000

04 3430000

Al Saffa – International Don Corleone – Italian Rattlesnake – American bar Shahjahan – Indian Summer Place – Chinese The Red Lion – English pub

Astros – Bar Gonu Bar and Grill – International bar grill Sapore – Italian Swaad – Indian Taste – Thai Views – International buffet

MEDIA ONE HOTEL

METROPOLITAN HOTEL DUBAI

MÖVENPICK HOTEL BUR DUBAI

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

Smoking shisha (hubbly bubbly) is very popular in Dubai. The Middle Eastern water pipe, which is thought to have originated around 500 years ago, purifies and cools the smoke from flavoured tobacco heated on top of the pipe by coals. It costs approximately AED35 to AED50 to smoke and the most popular flavours are apple, mint, strawberry, apricot and grape. Although relaxing and sociable, estimates suggest that an hour of shisha smoking equates to inhaling as many as 50 cigarettes. If you’re after an authentic taste of Middle Eastern culture, however, smoking shisha is a must. Just remember not to inhale too deeply, blow down the pipe to get rid of smoke build-up in the water and share your shisha among friends. This is a social tradition and to be enjoyed in groups or couples.

Savour great Italian food every Tuesday at The Fountain from 7 to 10.30pm from AED85 per person Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine – Arabic Pulse – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International

MÖVENPICK HOTEL DEIRA

04 4440111 Deira

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this fivestar property offers three food and beverage outlets for discerning tastes Jigsaw – Mediterranean Wok-In Bar – Asian-themed bar Wok-In Restaurant – Asian

MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH

04 4329430

Jumeirah Beach Residence Head to the hotel lobby on December 8 from 7 to 9pm for the lighting of the Christmas tree The Talk – International West Beach Bistro – Gastro bar

NOVOTEL WORLD TRADE CENTRE

04 3320000

Trade Centre Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

OASIS BEACH TOWER

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence Enjoy brunch every Friday at Thyme restaurant. Choose from a variety of delicious à la carte dishes and tasty buffet treats. From 12.30 to 3pm, prices start at AED140 per person Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai –Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house

ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

One of Dubai's most elegant properties with sprawling lawns, idyllic fountains, golden statues and sophisticated outlets. Ideal for romantic dinners Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eau Zone – Far Eastern Kasbar – Nightclub Nina – International Olives – European The Jetty – Beach Bar The Roof Top Lounge – Bar The Rotisserie – European Tagine – Moroccan

ONE&ONLY THE PALM

04 4401010

The Palm Jumeirah Head to Stay by Yannick Alléno for Afternoon Thé Gourmand afternoon tea. Expect an array of delicious cakes, pastries sandwiches and your choice of teas and coffees. Prices start at AED220 per person 101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – European Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

PARK HYATT DUBAI

04 6021234 Garhoud

Festive Season at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City Whether you are planning a dinner on Christmas Eve or a brunch on New Year’s Day, our chefs have created a delightful spread throughout the holidays. Santa has conﬁrmed that Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City is on his schedule and that a sack load of gifts will be delivered for the children. Fancy Christmas at home with your loved ones but let somebody else do the cooking? Ask for our Christmas take away menu to make your celebrations easier. For details and further information on all festive activities in our award winning restaurants please contact us on 04 366 9111 or email certo.mediacity.dubai@radissonblu.com

Tuck into a Christmas Eve festive feast at Traiteur on December 24, from 7 to 11pm. For AED495 per person, you can look forward to delicious Yuletide fare, including roast turkey, winter vegetables and cranberry sauce. Champagne and free-flowing wine and beer are also on the menu Cafe Arabesque – Arabic The Lounge – Afternoon Tea The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

WINING AND DINING Although the UAE is a Muslim country, alcohol is permitted in several emirates including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Wine, Champagne and spirits are all available from most five-star hotels and as a tourist you are free to enjoy the lively bar scene that Dubai has become famous for. However, be warned, there is a zero tolerance to drink driving. One sip is one sip too many. Likewise being drunk in public is a criminal offence. Both crimes are treated very seriously and are punishable with a fine and in more extreme cases imprisonment.

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Park Regis Kris kin, Dubai

04 3771111 Bur Dubai

For ladies' night, gals and their pals should head to Grandstand on Mondays from 6 to 11pm. Ladies receive unlimited classic and flavoured mojitos Kris With A View – Asian Le Metro – All-day dining The Grandstand Bar – Sports bar

Qamardeen Hotel

04 4286888

Downtown Dubai Buffet-style dining by day turns into Italian-inspired dining by night at Esca

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

04 4502000

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

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

04 3669111

Dubai Media City

Brits abroad should check out Icon Bar & Lounge which serves a British-style brunch every Friday from 12 to 4pm. You can look forward to all the classic Brit staples such as bangers and mash, fish and chips and roast beef with Yorkshire pudding Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports Bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail Bar

radisson royal hotel dubai

04 3080000

Sheikh Zayed Road This modern 51-storey glass tower, located near the Dubai World Trade Centre and opposite Dubai International Financial Centre, offers excellent Japanese cuisine at Icho Al Muhallab – Arabic seafood Icho – Japanese Celsius – All-day dining Indothai – Asian

04 3995533

Dubai Marina Visit The Peacock for reliable Chinese cuisine and impeccable service. Ciao Ristorante, meanwhile, is the property’s newest outlet, serving traditional Italian dishes

Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar Fire & Ice – European People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Red Lounge – Chinese Lounge The Noble House – Chinese

Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International The Peacock Chinese Restaurant – Chinese

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

04 3230111

The world’s tallest hotel features creative dishes from around the world at Petals

Boulvar – International Fish Market – Seafood Ku-Bu – Cocktail Bar La Moda – Italian Minato – Japanese Palm Grill – Steakhouse Shabestan – Iranian Sumibiya – Japanese The China Club – Chinese The Pub – English Up On The 10th – Jazz Bar

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

Head to Azur every Friday for a classic British roast dinner. Comprising roasted meat, roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, vegetables and gravy, the lunch costs from AED200 per person

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

Indulge in a Christmas Eve buffet at Boulvar. Prices start at AED195 per person without alcohol and AED275 including half a bottle of red or white wine

Oud Metha

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Deira

04 3149888

Esca Restaurant – International

04 2227171

10&13. Park Hyatt Dubai 11. Red Lounge – Raffles Dubai 12. Zheng He's – Mina A'Salam 14. Fish Market – Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek 15. Raffles Dubai

Raffles Dubai

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Royal Ascot Hotel

04 3520900 Bur Dubai

At Dae Jang Kum, expect meticulously prepared rice and kimchi (spicy vegetable pickle) Chill – Rooftop bar Dae Jang Kum – Korean Planet Bollywood – Indian Wellington’s – Lounge bar

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road This outstanding business hotel is home to Shang Palace, one of the best Chinese restaurants in town with an authentic and extensive menu Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – Italian Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

04 4484848

Dubai Marina Cheese and wine enthusiasts should check out Plantation every Wednesday from 7 to 10pm. The Traditional Cheese & Wine Buffet is priced at AED170 AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

Taj Palace Hotel

04 2232222 Deira

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

The Address Downtown Dubai

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai

Deira

Dine on a cosmopolitan blend of Asian, Indian, Arabic and Mediteranean cuisine at Fazaris' Vintage Brunch. Every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm, AED290 buys you all you can eat, as well as unlimited soft drinks

This established property in the heart of Old Dubai offers imaginative theme nights at The Terrace

Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea

Sheraton Deira Hotel, Dubai

04 2688888

Lindbergh’s Bar – Bar Star Studio Restaurant & Nightclub – Nightclub The Terrace – International

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

04 2281111 Deira

Head to Creekside every Wednesday from 7 to 11pm for fine seafood. The package costs AED240 per person Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – Bar Creekside – Japanese The Terrace – International Vivaldi – Italian

Friday brunch Elsewhere around the world brunch is known as a meal between breakfast and lunch. In Dubai it is the stuff of legend. Usually taking place between midday and 3pm, Friday brunches are popular with expatriates and tourists alike. Prices range from AED100 to AED600 per person and take place in the city's hotels. With extensive buffet and à la carte menus, most bruches are served with your choice of alcoholic beverages. High-end brunches typically include Champagne and cocktails, while less expensive options include house wines, beers and soft drinks.

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celebrate

with us at Holiday Inn Dubai - Al Barsha

From cocktails and cuisine to music and dancing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning for the party season, let Holiday Inn Dubai - Al Barsha take care of every last detail. Whatever the size of your group, we have the ideal venue to make your event one to remember. You can spoil your family and friends, colleagues or clients at one of our Party Nights, even a seasonal lunch or dinner.

For inquiries call: +971 4 323 4333

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T A ST E/THE GUIDE

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills

04 3722222 DIFC

Celebrate Christmas Eve at Ember Grill and Lounge from 7pm. As well as a delicious four-course set menu there will be entertainment from a live band and a spectacular midnight balloon drop. Prices start at AED275 per person including soft drinks and AED375 with unlimited selected beverages

For a culinary journey you'll never forget, join chef David at Nineteen for a lesson in how to prepare the perfect festive meal. Running every Sunday and Wednesday until December 21, the class is priced at AED500 for two people and is held from 12 to 3pm

Amatista – Lounge bar Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

The Fairmont Dubai

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai Marina

The Address Dubai Marina

04 4238888

Dubai Marina On December 17 relax with the family at Mezina, where the head chefs will be holding a class on gingerbread house decoration. Running from 12.30 to 3.30pm, admission is priced at AED195 per person Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Afternoon tea Mazina – International Shades – Al Fresco dining Yellow Lounge – Bar lounge

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

Every Wednesday from 6pm to 2am, enjoy 20 percent off on selected Scotch varieties at No.5 Lounge & Bar Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar

Nineteen – European The Academy – International

04 3994141

04 3325555

Pre-Christmas brunch is available at Spectrum on One on December 23. From 12 to 3pm indulge in a variety of holiday-themed dishes. Prices start at AED295 per person

Visit Bussola for possibly the best pizza in town

16 17

Bridges – Afternoon tea Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Humidor The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese

Towers Rotana Dubai

04 3438000

Sheikh Zayed Road For British fare at its best head to Flavours on Two every Tuesday for Flavours from Britain. For only AED179 you can expect classic Brit dishes along with your choice of selected beverages

The Meydan

04 3813333 Meydan

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience Farriers – International Prime – Steakhouse Shiba – Asian

04 2659888 Deira

04 5018888

Downtown Dubai Visit Diademas Cigar Lounge for cheese and two glasses of wine for AED90, from 6 to 8pm daily

The Palace – The Old Town

04 4287951

Downtown Dubai

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

Traders Hotel Dubai

The monarch dubai

Amika – Lounge/nighclub Arcadia – Afternoon tea Diademas Cigar Lounge – Cigar lounge Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar

Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Contemporary grill Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Far Eastern

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

04 3329260

The Fairmont Dubai A chic lounge that includes a contemporary Italian restaurant, sushi bar and Champagne bar Centimetro

04 3666730

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

04 2329077

Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates First-class Cantonese cuisine is served while you enjoy the amazing views over Festival Marina Pisces

04 3666730

Souk Madinat Jumeirah With panoramic views of the Gulf, this fine-dining seafood restaurant is not to be missed Rivington Grill

04 4230903

Souk Al Bahar Inspired by the London-based alma mater, steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day at this British grill

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

The Mango Tree

villa rotana

Souk Al Bahar

Sheikh Zayed Road Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet Moka Café – All-day dining

Cit y dining

Book a table at Asado on December 24, from 7 to 11.30pm and enjoy a festive feast complete with all the traditional trimmings. Prices start AED320 per person, inclusive of soft drinks

04 4341320

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

04 3216111 16. Zuma 17. The Meat Co. 18. The Palace – The Old Town 19. Aquara 20. Carluccio's

carluccio's

04 4267313

Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine served in a dark, moody setting, while overlooking views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa Ushna

04 3686506

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor, excellent cuisine and friendly service make this Indian restaurant a culinary favourite West 14th

04 4477601

The Palm Jumeirah

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

AQUARA

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

Carnivores, come one, come all! Expect succulent steaks at this contemporary, beachside New York Grill & Bar

04 3627900

Dubai Marina Yacht Club

04 3994000

Dubai Marina

Enjoy a spectacular view over Dubai Marina coupled with good food and fine wine

To get into the holiday spirit drop into Library Bar. From December 15 to 18, 7 to 11.30pm, enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner of roast turkey, winter vegetables, cranberry sauce and buttered brussel sprouts. Prices start at AED125 per person

at.mosphere

04 8883828 Burj Khalifa

Spectacular views await in the world's highest restaurant

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

BarZar

04 3666730

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

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

Attractions

EL MUNDO

050 5517406

Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason). Entertainment can also be arranged.

Timings: From2:30pm Guide Price: Adults AED250, children AED210 OASIS PALM TOURISM

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

04 2950516

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

04 2686826

Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow with international buffet and air conditioning.

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED150

per person

PARK LANE YACHT CHARTER

04 3471779

Hire a yacht for private or corporate charters, with fully qualified crew and catering. Jet skis are also available.

Timings: Until sunset Guide Price: AED2500 per

AED2,600 per boat

hour for up to 20 people

ART MARINE

RIKKS CRUISES

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

Cruise on one of five dhows ranging from 25 to 80ft. A daily dinner cruise with five-star catering is also available.

04 4068825

Timings: From 6am Guide price: From

AED750 per hour

BATEAUX DUBAI

04 3994994

Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner.

050 2768111/0507035111

Timings: Dinner cruise 8.30 to 10.30pm. Call for timings of daytime cruises Guide Price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 3295211

See world-famous offshore projects, including The World islands, on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11.30pm Guide Price: AED333

hour for up to 25 people

CLUB MINA

THE YELLOW BOATS

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

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

04 3993333

Timings: From 7am Guide Price:From AED2500 DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3511117

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

Timings: 8 to 10pm Guide Price: AED175

Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,500 per

800 8044

Timings: From 8.45am onwards Guide Price: Adults from AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along Dubai Marina. Inclusive of buffet, drinks and live entertainment.

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275

DREAMDAYS

per adult and AED90 per child

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

VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

8002080

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: AED550

050 7881175

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

Timings: Dinner cruise

at 8pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide Price: Creek cruise AED165. Marina cruise AED225. Call for details on daytime cruises

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

04 4 3034888

Dine among the dunes, explore the wadi, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding. ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

04 2682880

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

04 3572233

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

04 2340812

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are just some of the packages available. LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

04 3344330

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

04 2666655

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

1. Cruising 2. Seawings seaplane 3. View from the Burj Khalifa observation deck 4. Skydiving 5. Shooting 6. Jam Jar 7. Camel riding in the desert

OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 2686826

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

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6289667

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

04 2828238

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

04 2822199

Operates throughout Dubai and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi. ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS

5 6

04 2833335

Drive over the dunes and view a desert sunset before heading to a traditional campsite. TRAVCO

04 3366643

Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.

24/11/2011 17:43

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

Flying

Paintballing

Shooting (see Sports)

ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

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

Timings: From 2.30pm Guide price: City tour

DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

04 3678744

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

AED1,250 per person (30 minutes), private hourlong tours AED10,000 for up to six people

Timings: Thu to Sat from 9am, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED80 or AED160 with go-karting

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

04 2995155

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

Timings: From 8.30am Guide price: AED800 for

first-time flyers trial flight plus AED100 for airport pass FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4448866

This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details 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.

04 3244755

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

Timings: 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

06 5487777

Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semi-automatic paintball guns and the latest anti-fog visor masks.

Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED85 for two

hours on weekdays (AED90 Thu to Sat), includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Skydiving IFLYDUBAI

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre.

Timings: Sun to Tue 10am

to 11pm. Wed ladies only 11am to 10pm. Thu 10am to midnight. Fri 9am to midnight. Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: Adults AED19. Children AED145 SKYDIVE DUBAI

Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 3422993

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

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for

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

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

050 1533222

Based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, this brand new centre offers tandem skydiving.

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

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

800 28843867

lessons AED960. SEAWINGS

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

Timings: From 9am Guide price: Call for details

DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3244555

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

04 3254975/050 1002477 Take a 15-minute tour above Dubai and see all the iconic sights.

Timings: From 10am Guide price: AED750

Timings: 7 and 8.30pm

Hot air ballooning

Sun to Wed. 7, 8, 9 and 10pm Thu to Sat. Guide price: Free of charge

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

04 2854949

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

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED950 per

adult. AED800 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

ACTION ADVENTURE Check out these top action-packed activities and experience Dubai at its best… Terrifying teeth Come face to face with the world’s ultimate predator at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The nailbiting shark dives feature more than 33,000 aquatic animals including sand tiger sharks, reef sharks, giant groupers and stingrays, making the underwater adventure an experience not to be missed. Plane sailing Get a birds-eye view of the city as you take off from and land on water in a thrilling seaplane safari. Marvel at awe-inspiring landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and The World islands. Gun games From trap and double trap to clay and skeet, try your hand at a number of fun-packed, sharp shooting activities. Head to the Jebel Ali Shooting Club and there’s also a 5,000 square metre archery range. Flying colours Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and watch the sun rise over the desert. This calm and serene experience is a wonderful way to see the emirate away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child

FAMILY FUN

MAGIC PLANET

04 2954333

A fun and interactive familyfocused amusement centre in Deira City Centre and Mall of the Emirates.

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED15 free, AED75 – AED25 free, AED100 – AED35 free, AED250 – AED100 free

Offers fun activities for 0 to 7 year olds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

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

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

04 4297949

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

04 8832999

800 LEISURE (5347873)

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

Timings: From 2pm to

dusk Sun to Thu. From 11am to dusk Fri and Sat. Guide price: Adults AED1,700. Cash only

LITTLE EXPLORERS

FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com Ride rollercoasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62 metres into the air.

Timings: Tue to Sun from noon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA

04 4485222

A fun ‘city’ in which children can fly aeroplanes, drive buses, work in restaurants and play a host of adult roles.

Timings: 9am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: AED 95 to 125

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 8pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: AED40 for first hour. AED10 thereafter 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 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Entry is free of charge, but a minimum of AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

800 382246255

Watch the world’s tallest dancing fountain shoot jets of water 150 metres into the air in time to music.

Timings: Daily from 6pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND

04 3243222

Creekside family entertainment village, which includes Splashland waterpark and paintballing.

Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 7pm, theme park 10am to 4pm Guide price: AED100 adults, AED90 children

Arts & Crafts BEAD PALACE

04 3952771

Bead Palace on Jumeirah Beach Road is for artistic types who like to create their own jewellery. Classes are available.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm Guide price: From AED25 CAFÉ CERAMIQUE

04 3447331 / 04 3410144

Create your own piece of pottery art. Paint it, glaze it and then enjoy a cup of hot chocolate from it.

Whether you have mischievous infants or impatient teenagers, Dubai offers something for all the family... Desert safari Sandboarding, quad biking, camel riding, belly dancing – the list of activities available in the desert is endless. Choose from an adrenalinefuelled adventure or a more sedate cultural journey of discovery. Waterparks No matter what your age, the UAE’s waterparks will leave you squealing with delight. Our favourites are Aquaventure at Atlantis, The Palm, and Wild Wadi at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Kidzania This interactive children’s ‘city’ allows children to fly aeroplanes, drive buses and work in restaurants playing adult roles in a world created just for them. Ski Dubai Escape the heat and head to Ski Dubai, the longest indoor ski slope in the world. This popular attraction offers skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, tubing and even zorbing. There’s also an area to build snowmen.

Timings: Daily 9am to midnight Guide price: No base charge, ceramic prices vary from AED35 to AED150

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Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.

Get Hooke d*

POPPING â&#x20AC;˘ JIGGING â&#x20AC;˘ BIG GAME FISHING

www.noboundariesoman.com

Adventure fishing lodges : Southern Oman e: ed@noboundariesoman.com w: noboundariesoman.com t: +971 50 2514988

www.facebook.com/NoBoundariesOman

*We promote catch & release and encourage conservation of the Oman coastline

JAM JAR

04 3417303

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session. Canvas, paints and a drop of inspiration are provided.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm, Fri 2 to 8pm Guide price: AED195 to AED225 for adults, AED95 for children

Birdwatching BIRD WATCHING TOURS Bird-watching tours can be organised on an individual basis or through reputable tour operators.

Guide price: from AED250

per person

NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 2063455

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

Timings: From 4 to 9pm Guide price: Free of charge

Edutainment CHILDREN’S CITY

04 3340808

An interactive science and cultural centre at Creekside Park, for children aged five to 15.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to

8.30pm, Fri 3 to 8.30pm 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’, ‘Galactica’ and the skate park.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED30 for one hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass

Ice skating (see Sports)

Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY

04 4261030

Meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis, The Palm.

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

rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 4485200

Marvel at the diverse collection of marine life or swim with the sharks. There are also glass-bottom boat rides for the less brave and a behind-the-scenes tour.

SPLASHLAND

OUTSIDE DUBAI

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

A central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with fun-packed rides, make this waterpark a hit with adults and children of all ages.

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED200 adults; AED165 children under 1.1 metres, children under two go free

Timings: Shows Mon to Wed 11am and 6pm. Thu 11am, 6 and 9pm. Fri 11am, 3, 6 and 9pm. Sat 11am, 3 and 6pm. Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children

Golf

THE LOST CHAMBERS

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 4260000

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

04 6010111

(7,303 yards, par-72)

10am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: AED100 for adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 11pm. Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE

04 4260000

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: AED200 for adults,AED165 for children under 1.2 metres DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

An hour’s drive from Dubai, this is a large fun-filled park with a number of entertaining rides.

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm. Fridays are for families only, no all male groups Guide price: AED115 adults; AED70 children ICELAND WATER PARK

800 WOWRAK (969725)

This sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert includes an Arctic wave pool and mighty waterfalls.

Timings: Sun to Wed 11am to 8pm. Thu, Fri and Sat 11am to 9pm Guide price: Above 1.2m AED225. Below 1.2m AED175

This championship course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, provides a challenging round.

Timings: Sun to Thu

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED85 adults; AED80 children 04 3484444

04 3369773

AQUA PLAY

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

WILD WADI

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

Waterparks

04 3241222

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

04 3663000

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

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED555, Fri and Sat AED660 for 18 holes

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2956000

(6,800 yards, par-71)

The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes, and the Creek, on at least four holes.

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

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

1,239 yards, par-27) Voted one of the top 100 golf courses outside of the US by Golf Digest (May 2009), the club is also home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament.

8. The Dubai Fountain 9. Kidzania 10. Ice skating 11. Ernie Els 12.The Address Montgomerie, Dubai

Green fees: Majlis Course daily AED995 for 18 holes. Faldo Course Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB DEC11.indd 133

26/11/2011 12:56

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

(3,299 yards, par-36, nine holes) This pretty nine-hole course features a saltwater lake, wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which roam the fairways.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED245

and Fri and Sat AED275 for 18 holes. Sun to Thu AED175 and Fri and Sat AED195 for nine holes. Twilight rate is AED125 from approximately 5.10pm Jumeirah Golf Estates

04 3759999

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

13. The Wall 14. Dubai Rugby Sevens 15. Wakeboarding 16. Deep sea fishing

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

04 3905600

(7,396 yards, par-72)

WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

04 3240000

For an exciting rock face experience, head to the only state-of-the-art textured indoor climbing wall in the UAE.

Timings: 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED62

for one hour THE WALL

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

THE ELS CLUB

Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request

Sports

AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2950516

Experience the thrill of deepsea fishing in the Arabian Gulf on an exclusive charter boat.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED600 per person ART MARINE

04 4068825

Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters for a spot of deep sea fishing.

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

Archery

HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 8523211

Think you’re Robin Hood? Put your archery skills to the test while taking in the scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.

Timings:8am to 6pm Guide price: 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 at the same time.

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED130

Timings: Call for details Guide price: A four-hour trip (minimum) with up to six people costs from AED750 per hour

SUMMERTIME MARINE

per hour

Fishing

Green fees: Daily AED795 for 18 holes

Those who love the great blue sea will be taken on a fully equipped charter vessel for a session of fishing.

Timings: Adults 6 to 10pm Sat to Thurs. 2 to7pm Fri. Children 2 to 5.30pm Sat to Thurs. Book on Fri and Sat Guide price: AED50 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor

At more than 15-metreshigh, this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes

Set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, this links-style course offers a challenging round.

04 3993333

04 3295211

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

(7,538 yards, par-72, 18 holes)

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 3065061

One of the most luxurious golf courses in Dubai, the Colin Montgomerie-designed course features lakes, landscaped gardens and 81 large bunkers.

04 4251010

Climbing

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2054646

Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing on board the Sneak Away complete with tackle, bait and crew.

Timings: 7am to 6pm Guide price:AED3,500 for four hours. Longer or shorter trips are available as required JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA

04 8836000

Take a group fishing trip into the Gulf and make the catch of the day. Equipment, bait and light snacks provided.

Timings: Mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: AED350 per person

Up to seven people can be accommodated on private fishing trips. All equipment and skipper are provided.

Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,500

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

Catch your own lunch on an unforgettable deep-sea fishing trip. Inclusive of equipment, beverages, captain and crew.

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1400 for four hours

SEVENS HEAVEN An event that doesn’t feature too many well-known faces, but does pack in three days of pulsating action, socialising and excitement is The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens. This year’s tournament takes place from December 1 to 3 at The Sevens Stadium, which is home to the world's largest temporary arena. Capable of hosting 50,000 spectators, the sports ground is located on the outskirts of Dubai and is quickly becoming the new home of rugby in the Middle East. Admission to the Dubai Rugby Sevens is free on the Thursday, while Friday and Saturday tickets are priced at AED230 per day. A season ticket (Friday and Saturday) is priced at AED350. As the opening tournament of the IRB Sevens, many of rugby’s powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand, England and Australia, fly in to compete for the Emirates International Trophy.

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expe r ience/THE GUIDE

Horseracing

04 8327171

Season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com

This out-of-town equestrian centre offers riding lessons and desert hacks as well as the chance to meet and learn about camels.

Horseriding

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

04 3618111

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

Timings: Desert hack 6

to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED300

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

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

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

04 8836000

Enjoy the natural desert surrounds in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.

Timings: Tue to Sun 7am

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

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

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

riding from AED200

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

Ice Skating

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED400

AL NASR LEISURELAND

FORMULA ONE

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 3371234

Cool off and burn a few calories skating around the Olympic-sized ice rink or try your hand at 10-pin bowling.

Experience the thrill of Formula One, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED25 for two

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED7,500

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

YAS DRIVING ACADEMY

DUBAI ICE RINK

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 4485111

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

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

Drive open-wheel, single-seat race cars, two-seat open sports cars and top-of-the-range racespec sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.

17. Ski Dubai 18. Horse racing 19. Polo 20. Karting

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED950 to drive, AED350 for hot lap with a driver

GALLERIA ICE RINK

Mountainbiking

04 2096000

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

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 1.30pm, 2 to 5.30pm and 6 to 9.30pm. Open until 10.30pm Thu to Sat Guide price: AED25 including skate hire

Guide price: AED300 per

person for a day’s trip. See Listings for tour operators

Karting

Polo

DUBAI AUTODROME

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

04 3678744

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 AED110

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

050 5592131

02 5629050

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

Timings: Daily midday to 9pm Guide price: AED100 for

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

30 minutes

Call for season information

Mini Golf

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

DESERT RANGERS

04 8523221

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

04 3402408

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

mini golf and fun course. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities

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

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

04 3941669

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

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

04 3989146

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

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 3295211

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

Guide price: AED6,400

for four hours

Shooting JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

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

Timings: Winter – Wed to Mon 1 to 10pm; summer – Wed to Mon 3pm to midnight Guide price: Outdoor AED175 for 25 shots; indoor AED100 for .22 caliber or AED150 for 9mm SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

06 5487777/050 2032288 One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.

Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED170 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED130 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

Skiing SKI DUBAI

04 4094000

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

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight. Guide price: AED100 for entry to snow park for adults, AED90 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

23/11/2011 12:25

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

art galleries

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.

1X1 Art Gallery

04 3411287

Located in Al Quoz, this established gallery showcases international mixed media.

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ART SAWA

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: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm, Sat noon to 6pm, Fri by appointment only Map reference: D1

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

GALLERY 76

04 3470209

04 3444398

Showcases paintings, sculptures and photography from local emerging and international artists.

Timings: Sat to Wed,

9am to 7pm; Thu, 9am to 4pm. Fri closed Map reference: D1 GALLERY etemad

satellite

A new studio that showcases work by American media artist James Clar.

showcase GALLERY

04 3488797

Located on Jumeirah

04 3468649

Exhibits striking artworks that feature in museums and international collections.

Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, Showcase specialises in contemporary and traditional art and photography.

Timings: Sat to Thu

10am to 5.30pm

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

Timings: Daily 9am to 6pm. Fri closed Map reference: C1

art select

04 3449888

Map reference: C2

GREEN ART GALLERY

Showcases contemporary art through high-calibre exhibitions for international clients.

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am to 8.30pm Map reference: D1

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

050 6453014

ARTSPACE

lawrie shabibi

04 3230820

050 4670272

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 5.30pm Map reference: D1

Timings: Call for details Map reference: C2

A contemporary gallery displaying the works of international and local talent in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

AYYAM GALLERY

Founded by the former head of sales of Christie’s Middle East and the former MD of Art Dubai, the gallery will showcase works by regional artists.

MAJLIS GALLERY

the Art source

04 3398399

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Map reference: D2

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9.30am to 8pm Map reference: E1

Timings: See website Map reference: D2

marsam mattar

04 3955811

A non-commercial contemporary art space where visitors can view and discuss local and international artists.

THE RED GALLERY

This modern gallery on The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence has different exhibitions every month.

04 3988331

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

Located on Al Wasl Road, the gallery exhibits Vietnamese art from established and emerging talent.

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 8.30pm. Fri closed Map reference: E1

Timings: Daily 10am to 7pm. Fri closed Map reference: C1

CARBON 12

050 4644392

Features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.

Timings: Sun to Thu, noon to 7pm. Saturday by appointment only Map reference: C2

meem gallery

THE THIRD LINE

04 3477883

04 3411367

Timings: 10am to 7pm Sat to Thu. Fri closed Map reference: B2

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am to 8pm Map reference: C2

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

the pavilion downtown dubai

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm Map reference: C2 BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

the mojo gallery

www.pavilion.ae

04 4257888

1. Opera Gallery 2. Dubai Creek 3. Bastakiya 4. Spice Souk 5. Jumeirah Mosque 6. Dubai Museum

Mojo focuses on contemporary exhibitions of paintings, photography, digital media, prints and sculptures.

04 3536233

This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features arts and exclusive crafts from local and international artists.

04 3477388

04 3236242

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

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

04 3408660

A showcase of regional contemporary art with a library and video lounge for artists and art enthusiasts to interact.

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

OPERA GALLERY

04 3230909

With operations all over the world, the gallery showcases the work of great masters as well as new talent.

Timings: Sat to Thu noon to 8pm Map reference: D1

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TOTAL ARTS

AL MANSOUR DHOW

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

This five-star dhow from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers international cuisine, alcoholic beverages and live entertainment.

04 3475050

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 3pm Map reference: C2 TRAFFIC

04 3470209

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries and sells art books and prints.

Timings: Daily 10am

to 7pm. Fri closed Map reference: C2 XVA GALLERY

04 3535383

04 2057033

LOCAL SPEAK

Timings: Daily boarding

at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED185 ART MARINE

04 4068825

Cruise around The World islands, The Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and, for a taste of local culture, Dubai Creek. into the night Guide Price: From AED750 per hour

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 7pm. Fri 10am to 5pm Map reference: E1

04 3939860

Local flavour

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

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED150

Mall of the Emirates 04 3414777

Brings together a wide variety of performing and visual arts including drama, dance, opera, comedy and children’s shows.

04 3368406

04 2949888

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter. City shuttle services available.

Timings: Flights depart from 10am to 4.15pm Guide Price: City tour AED1,250 per person (30 minutes), private hourlong tours AED10,000 for up to six people 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 SEAWINGS

04 8832999

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.

Timings: Flights depart from

9am to 5pm every hour Guide Price: From AED895 per person

Water AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE

04 3243000

Traditional Arabian dhows take guests on cruises each evening, with a banquet of food included in the price.

Timings: Daily 8 to 10pm

and 10.30pm to 12.30am. Boarding at 8pm Guide Price: AED176 Map reference: E2

Timings: Tours depart every 30 minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide Price: Day tour – AED220 adults, AED100 children, AED540 family (two adults and two children). Night tour – AED100 adults, AED75 children, AED275 family (two adults and two children)

If you are interested in learning more about the Emirati way of life, head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and sit in on a cultural breakfast or lunch. Visitors can chat freely with locals on any topic they wish, be it modernisation, traditional dress or women’s rights.

Hire a dhow with dinner and transfers, butler service and unlimited beverages.

ALPHA TOURS

Hop aboard a double-decker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck. A night tour is also available.

CULTURE

CREEKSIDE LEISURE

Air

04 3244187

Timings: From 7am

Modern art on show in a 2,500 sq ft gallery in Gate Village in Dubai International Financial Centre.

CITY TOURS

THE BIG BUS COMPANY

Timings: Daily boarding 8pm Guide Price: AED200

Map reference: B2

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3666546

dinner cruise

Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charter are available. at 7.30pm. Cruise from 8.15 to 10.15pm Guide Price: AED175 for an evening dhow cruise or AED250 for a catamaran cruise WONDERBUS

04 3595656

This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up the Creek for an hour cruise.

Guide Price: AED125 adults; AED85 children (3-12 years); AED390 family (two adults and two children)

Land JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR

04 3536666

Venture inside a mosque and learn about Islam. Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves.

Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and

Thu for one hour from 10am Guide Price: AED10 Map reference: D1 NORTH TOURS

04 3572200

Tailor-made city tours are available from this longestablished, certified operator.

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: Call for details

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

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3511117

Timings: Daily boarding

Enjoy a selection of traditional Emirati dishes laid out on the floor, including khobbs khameer (bread), lugamat (sweet sticky doughnuts served with date syrup) and balaleet (omelette and chick peas).

Abaya Traditional black dress worn by local women Abra Water taxi or traditional wooden boat used to transport people across Dubai Creek Dhow Traditional wooden fishing boat, bigger than an abra Kandoura Traditional white dress worn by local men Labneh Traditional yoghurt drink, usually served with Arabic food Majlis A room or seating area usually used for entertaining guests

This 442-seat luxury venue nestled within the ‘ancient’ souk hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film. See Essential listings for current performances

Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

04 3536666

Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers. SMCCU aims to break down barriers between nationalities.

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am

to 7pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide Price: Breakfast AED60, lunch AED70. Reservations essential Map reference: E1

MUSEUMS

Shisha A water pipe used for smoking flavoured tobacco. Sometimes referred to as hubbly bubbly

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

Located next to the Spice Souk, the museum contains rare manuscripts of royal and administrative decrees and photographs.

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

04 3453636

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

04 3531862

Dubai’s most comprehensive museum, featuring a history of the emirate in the impressive Creekside Al Fahidi Fort.

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 HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE

04 3937151

Manakeesh Popular Arabic food, consisting of dough with toppings such as cheese, thyme or ground meat, similar to pizza Shawarma A sandwichlike wrap usually filled with meat, such as chicken or lamb. Very popular across the Middle East

Contact: 04 3536666

A lively museum in which Emiratis often prepare local food and perform traditional dances to Arabic music.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am

to 10pm, Fri 3 to 10pm Guide Price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE

04 2260286

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 7.30am to

7.30pm, Friday 2 to 7.30pm Guide Price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

04 3946343

04 3937139

Timings: Sat to Thu 7am to 8.30pm, Friday 3 to 9pm Guide Price: AED2 adults, AED1 children (under eight years free) Map reference: E1

KNOW THE LAW Only non-Muslims are allowed to consume alcohol and this must be in licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs or private venues. Do not consume alcohol if driving. Dancing is only allowed in the privacy of your hotel room or at licensed clubs. Avoid addressing women in public or taking their photograph without their permission.

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

Offensive language, spitting and aggressive hand gestures must be avoided.

Timings: Daily 8.30am to 1.30pm and 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide Price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1

Married couples may hold hands in public, but kissing and hugging is not allowed.

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Mesgarzadeh Luxurious Persian Rugs and Fine French Antiques Since 1915

Dubai Gallery, No. GF267, Level G, Dubai Mall, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 3399930 Tehran Gallery, 2842 Vali Asr, South of Passian, Iran Tel: +98 21 22666632 amir@mesgarzadeh.com

DUBAI TOURIST MAP

N W ATLANTIS THE PALM

HOTELS

38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77

FOR BOOKINGS 04 2854949 www.ballooning.ae

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

35 50

JUMEIRAH BEACH 73 39 22 8

64 5 63

ROAD TO

HIGHWAY

RESORT & SPA

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

INTERCHANGE 6

METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK

AL WASL ROAD

8 9

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

10 20 42

EMIRATES HILLS

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

37 17 11

SALIK

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

A1 B1

A1 E1 D2 D2 A1 B2 D2 D1 D2 A1 D1 E1 D1 B1

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

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

IRA TES

TO AIRPORT

AL KHAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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

DUBAI SPORTS CITY

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

8 • BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

N W

HI GH W AY

8 THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI JUMEIRAHAUTODROME ARABIAN RANCHES BEACH GOLF CLUB

SKYDIVE DUBAI

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

TIMES SQUARE CENTRE

E AT

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

HIGHWAY

10 GREEN COMMUNITY

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

DUBAILA

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

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

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

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

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

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

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

12 11

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

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

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

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

UMM SUQEIM

68 41

IBN BATTUTA

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

A1 D1 B2 A1

AL SUFOUH ROAD

21 DUBAI MARINA MALL

5 38 77 49

DUBAI MARINA

31 JEBEL ALI GOLF

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

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

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL BURJ AL ARAB MADINAT JUMEIRAH

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

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5