Concierge Dubai Magazine, February 2012 by npimedia fz llc

FEBRUARY 2012 | issue 90

M A G A Z I N E V I S I T O R F I V E - S T A R l u x u r y T H E

dubai edition FEBRUARY 2012 | issue 90

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

With compliments of

Licensed by international Media Production Zone

E vEry rolE x is madE for grE atnE s s. thE day-datE ii, l aunchEd in

2008, EnhancEs thE lEgacy of thE original day-datE, which was thE first watch to display thE datE, as wEll as thE day in its EntirEty. now in a l argEr, morE commanding 41 mm sizE, thE day-datE ii is a natural Evolution of a classic.

the d ay -date ii

Longines supports the Andre Agassi Foundation

Elegance is an attitude “It’s time to give a little bit of your time to others.”

Andre Agassi

Visit the Longines Boutiques at: Mirdif City Centre 04 284 3604 • Abu Dhabi Mall 02 6504250 Reopening soon at Dubai Mall Also available at Rivoli stores throughout the UAE. Call toll free 800-RIVOLI or visit www.rivoligroup.com

Adv_AA8_conceirge gold moon DM.indd 1

www.longines.com

The Longines Master Collection

12/22/11 11:09 AM

HAUTE JOAILLERIE

Amman 962-6-468-0007 / 962-6-556-3892 • Beirut 961-1-201-706 / 961-1-999-891 • Broummana 961-4-868-888 • Dubai 971-4-339-8339 • Geneva 41-22-310-68-48 • Jeddah 966-2-263-2636 Khobar 966-3-894-5747 • Kuala Lumpur 60-3-2144-4669 / 60-3-2095-2555 • Los Angeles 1-310-226-7870 • Muscat 968-2-456-0945 • Riyadh 966-1-293-4555 • Singapore 65-6536-0020

Меха из Италии

www.braschidubai.com

Souk Madinat Jumeirah � Tel: +971 4 4548778 Baniyas Square, Deira � Tel: +971 4 2270544

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

FEBRUARY 2012 / Issue 90 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

edi tor i a l Edi tor i a l Dir ec tor Scot t Birch Edi tor c at he r in e l a ngl e y Depu t y Edi tor A m a n da Tom l i nson Con t r ibu tor s r e becc a ga bba i A l a n Ewa ns ch a r lot t e va n de n broucqu e

st u dio Sen ior A rt Dir ec tor An dr e a T e m pesta Se n ior Design er s Pr achi Bh au mik T im M acDona l d K e l ly M a ssie Ton y Sa n t i ago Photogr a pher A dh a m Sn e e h Produc t ion Coor di nator Nav e e d A ziz

a dv ert ising a dv ert isi ng dir ec tor dav id wa de A dv ert isi ng M a nager Pr a sh a n d Me non Sa l es M a nager s Sa nge eta Bu ta n i Mi a C ache ro m a dih a zou bir i PAOLO A NGHILE R I Sa l es & M a r k et i ng Su pport Dav id R ie l Speci a l proj ec ts K ir at Sa bh a rwa l

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 81 partner hotels throughout the city and you can also look out for the Abu Dhabi edition when visiting the capital, distributed in 49 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, Discover, Experience and Taste. 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。

WELCOME_DXB_FEB12.indd 11

In focus

Photography: Adham Sneeh Dubai is a city of contrasts. Home to an array of shopping malls, designer stores and one-off boutiques, the emirate has long been considered the destination of choice for five-star travellers with a passion for fashion. But aside from being a magnet for luxury shoppers, Dubai is also a cultural city, with a strong sense of tradition. For a taste of the new season’s trends and a glimpse of the city’s rich history, turn to page 26 where the contemporary couture of spring/summer 2012 is seamlessly blended with the old-world charm of Bastakiya – one of Dubai’s oldest and most historical quarters.

26/01/2012 15:40

contents FEBRUARY 2012 / Issue 90

16/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

22/SNAPSHOT Marina view

25/SHOP 26/TIME TRAVEL

Traditional Arabian architecture meets the latest spring/summer collection in a fashion fusion

36/DIAMOND MINE Everybody knows, ‘diamonds are a girl’s best friend’

44/TIME IS PRECIOUS

… so make every second count with an elegant evening watch

50/PRESENT AND CORRECT Valentine’s gifts for him and her

58/DISCOVER 60/A RACE TO REMEMBER

The ancient art of seafaring is kept alive with the dhow sailing race

67/TOURIST TRAIL The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence has a lot to offer

68/ANCIENT HISTORY

UNESCO World Heritage sites in Al Ain

_CONTENTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 13

26/01/2012 14:53

contents FEBRUARY 2012 / Issue 90

74/EXPERIENCE 76/NO DOUBTING THOMAS

We chat exclusively to 2001 Omega Dubai Desert Classic champion, Thomas Bjorn about past successes and future triumphs

84/HOOK, LINE AND SINKER Get ready for some deep sea fishing

91/TASTE 92/COME DINE WITH ME…

Make it a magical Valentine’s Day at one of Dubai’s most idyllic dining spots

100/PEARLS OF THE SEA

Visitors can enjoy locally produced Caviar

102/WOK ‘N’ ROLL Tastes of the Orient

110/MY DUBAI Fashion designer Rami Al Ali shares his tips for a stylish stay in Dubai

Q 111/the Guide Comprehensive listings to help plan the perfect stay

_CONTENTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 14

26/01/2012 14:53

essentials

Brought to you in association with

FEBRUARY

EXPERIENCE

Omega Dubai Desert Classic Stars of the golfing world will be out in force for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic which takes place from February 9 to 12 at Emirates Golf Club. For four nailbiting days, world-class players including Alvaro Quiros, Lee Westwood and Thomas Bjorn will battle it out on the fairways in the hope of taking home the cup. For more details visit www.dubaidesertclassic.com. Turn to page 76 to read our exclusive interview with previous Dubai Desert Classic winner, Thomas Bjorn.

ESSENTIALS DXB FEB12.indd 16

26/01/2012 15:41

TASTE

EVENTS IN BRIEF

Brunch

D U B A I R O C K S 2 012

If your stay takes in a Friday (the first day of the UAE weekend) use this opportunity to experience a Dubai brunch. Unlike the calm culinary experience it is elsewhere around the world, brunch in Dubai is legendary. With buffet tables laden with gourmet goods and an unending supply of free-flowing drinks, you won’t be left wanting. Our favourite spots include Farriers at The Meydan, which overlooks the world-famous Meydan Racecourse, and Imperium at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray (pictured). Turn to page 128 for a list of hotels, many of which serve Friday brunches.

February 3 Iconic Bollywood music makers Vishal and Shekhar will be bringing down the house when they appear in concert at Madinat Arena. For more information visit www.madinattheatre.com

GOURMET ABU DHABI February 8 to 23 For the fourth year running, internationally renowned chefs, distinguished châteaux experts and industry professionals gather in the capital to serve up an unparalleled annual event of gastronomic proportions. For more information visit www.gourmetabudhabi.ae

KASABIAN LIVE IN DUBAI

SHOP

Dubai Shopping Festival At any time of year Dubai is a destination for shoppers and according to a recent report the emirate comes second only to Hong Kong when it comes to luxury labels and high-end brands. To add to the retail excitement, Dubai Shopping Festival will be running until February 5. Shoppers can expect discounts and daily raffles as they explore the many retail havens throughout the city. For more information visit www.dubaishoppingfestival.com.

February 10 Award-winning UK rock band Kasabian will be performing live in Dubai at The Sevens stadium. Expect all the big hits including ‘Cutt Off’ and ‘Happiness’. To book tickets visit www.doneevents.com

S K Y WA R D S D U B A I I N T E R N AT I O N A L J A Z Z F E S T I VA L 2 012 February 16 to 24 Prepare to croon with big-name artists including James Blunt and Jools Holland when Festival Park, Al Badia Golf Club, comes alive for the Jazz Festival. For more information visit www.dubaijazzfest.com

GUCCI

DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS February 20 to March 3 Tennis fever befalls Dubai as some of the most talented players on the planet, including Roger Federer (pictured), Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, battle it out for prizes and the chance to take home the coveted trophy. Head to The Aviation Club for a piece of the action. For details visit www. dubaidutyfreetennischampionship.com

ESSENTIALS DXB FEB12.indd 17

25/01/2012 18:33

EXPERIENCE

Dubai World Cup Carnival Equine fans will be pleased to hear they don’t have to wait until the Dubai World Cup on March 31 for racing action, because the 3rd Meydan Masters International Jockey Challenge kicked off the Dubai World Cup Carnival last month and a number of fixtures take place throughout February and March, concluding with the Dubai World Cup. For details visit www.dubairacingclub.com

SHOP

Montblanc Watch aficionados can enjoy the ‘Writing Time – Two Centuries of Chronograph History’ exhibition, by Montblanc and the Musée International d’Horlogerie. Held from February 6 to 18 at The Dubai Mall, the display features two centuries of chronograph history and showcases the Montblanc Rieussec Anniversary Edition chronograph (pictured).

Taste Shisha

Immerse yourself in local culture by sampling delicious flavoured tobacco through a shisha (water pipe). This highly sociable pastime sees groups of friends meet and share flavours such as apple, grape and mint. Visit the 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.

EXPERIENCE Cirque du Soir

For a taste of the theatrical, try out Cirque du Soir at The Fairmont Dubai. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10.30pm to 3am guests will be wowed by live performances from stilt walkers, magicians, dancers and sword swallowers. For reservations visit www.cirquedusoirdubai.com

ESSENTIALS DXB FEB12.indd 18

25/01/2012 11:39

SHOP

Ask the concierge

Gold souks If you’re looking for El Dorado you’ve come to the right place. Dubai, or ‘the city of gold’ as it is often referred to, is known for its gold souks in Deira. Bursting with culture and old-world charm, traders from across the globe congregate in this marketplace to sell an array of treasures. For those with a taste for finery, this souk is a must-visit.

James Cherian, head c o n c i e r g e at H i lt o n D u b a i Jumeirah shares his t o p t i p s f o r a l u x u ry s tay i n D u b a i

SHOP

Fashion Avenue Prepare to shop like never before at Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall. Your one-stop shop for all things fabulous, peruse big-name designer brands such as Shanghai Tang, Lanvin, Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci (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.

DISCOVER At the Top

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 stunning photo opportunities. 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 (28843867 ) or visit www.burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck

Shopping is a big part of life in Dubai and there are so many fantastic malls to visit, but don’t underestimate the charm of the traditional souks. The Naif Souk near Al Sabkha Road in Deira is a great place to pick up traditional Arabic souvenirs and presents for loved ones. Dubai comes alive after dark, so don’t miss out on the night scene. Buddha Bar at Grosvenor House, Dubai is a great choice for pre-dinner drinks while Cavalli Club at The Fairmont Dubai is brimming with Dubai’s ‘it’ crowd. For a supersophisticated hangout, head to Armani/Privé at The Armani Hotel. The two-tiered venue is the Dubai version of the famously exclusive Milan nightclub. For something a little romantic, Traiteur at Park Hyatt Dubai is a good choice. If guests are looking to experience the cultural side of Dubai, I would suggest a visit the Dubai Museum, followed by a trip to the Heritage & Diving Village and the Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House. All three places are located in the same area and are within walking distance of one another. Another must-see is Jumeirah Mosque, which is one of the few mosques in the UAE open to non Muslims. It features ornate scriptures from the Qur’an and paintings of flowers on the walls and archways. For something further a field, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is full of cultural promise.

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:

ESSENTIALS DXB FEB12.indd 19

25/01/2012 11:39

EXPERIENCE

LOOKING AHEAD E M I R AT E S A I R L I N E F E S T I VA L O F L I T E R AT U R E What: Budding writers come one, come all because the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is where famous authors and the public meet for debates, readings and workshops. When: March 6 to 10 Where: Opening at The Cultural & Scientific Association in Dubai Contact: 04 3444192

A day of spa pampering

February is the month of romance, so be sure to enjoy a luxurious couples’ spa treatment at one of Dubai’s five-star spas during your stay. Our top recommendations include Assawan Spa & Health Club at the Burj Al Arab and the Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray (pictured). Turn to page 128 for a list of properties, most with in-house spa facilities.

SANDANCE What: The award-winning music festival Sandance is back with another five-star international line up. Soak up the sun and sounds of Snow Patrol live in concert, followed by Calvin Harris behind the decks and superstar DJ Erick Morillo. Where: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai When: March 9 Contact: 04 4260000

D U B A I I N T E R N AT I O N A L B O AT S H O W What: Whether you’re in the market for a super yacht or just fancy a bit of window shopping, boat lovers and boat buyers from around the world meet for maritime merriment at the Dubai International Boat Show. When: March 13 Where: Dubai International Marine Club Contact: www.boatshowdubai.com

taste

Dinner cruise Dubai is known for its idyllic restaurants, but if you’re keen to make a splash this Valentine’s Day, book in for a romantic dinner cruise. Whether you choose to enjoy a Dubai Creek cruise on a traditional dhow or floating restaurant, or board a private boat for two and explore the tranquil waters of Dubai Marina, the city waterways provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic meal. There is a variety of cruise companies in Dubai but our top recommendations include First Yacht (pictured) and Bateaux Dubai. Turn to page 118 for a list of companies.

B R I T I S H P O L O D AY D U B A I What: A celebration of British heritage, polo players from Britain’s finest institutions, such as Oxford, Cambridge, Eton, Harrow, the Cavalry & Guards Club and the British Army, go head-to-head on the field. Where: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club When: March 30 Contact: www.britishpoloday.com

DUBAI WORLD CUP What: The cream of the racing world unites for this annual thoroughbred horserace, held at Meydan Racecourse. The world’s richest horse race with US$10 million (AED36.7m) in prize money for the main race is the highlight of the social calendar. Where: Meydan When: March 31 Contact: www.dubaiworldcup.com

DISCOVER Camel racing

For something out of the ordinary, take a trip to Dubai Camel Racing Club, approximately 35 kilometres 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.

ESSENTIALS DXB FEB12.indd 20

25/01/2012 18:43

SINCE 1971 IN SaINt-tROpEz 18 et 36, rue gambetta – 2, rue de la poste – 31, place de la garonne

DUBAI – SOUK MADINAT JUMeIrAh, VILeBreQUIN STOre – hAMAC STOreS – hArVeY NIChOLS MALL Of The eMIrATeS – OpeNINg feBrUArY 2012 ABU DhABI – ABU DhABI MALL, VILeBreQUIN STOre – MONTe-CArLO BeACh CLUB

1518 Vilebrequin_Concierge_220mm x 275mm.indd 1

WWW.VILEBREQUIN.COM

1/18/12 3:44 PM

Snapshot

Just add water Dubai is a city famed for its lightning-speed expansion and is home to a plethora of towering skyscrapers and innovative architecture. Much of this development can be found in the Dubai Marina area, where high-rise residences and luxury hotels overlook hundreds of exclusive yachts, which take pride of place in the aquamarine waters. This area is peppered with an intricate network of cafĂŠs, restaurants and boutiques enticing both residents and visitors. Marina Walk and The Walk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jumeirah Beach Residence are the most popular hubs and are must-sees for anyone visiting Dubai for the first time. Inspired by the Concord Pacific Place in Vancouver, Canada, Dubai Marina is one of the largest man-made marinas in the world, stretching two miles and running parallel to the Arabian Gulf shoreline. 22

SNAPSHOT_DXB_FEB12.indd 22

25/01/2012 11:40

SNAPSHOT_DXB_FEB12.indd 23

25/01/2012 11:40

shop Bulgari

Parentesi, the latest collection from Bulgari, is a diverse assortment of striking pieces. Comprising earrings, necklaces and bracelets, the unique range combines white and yellow gold with a variety of stunning precious gems. Each piece is made with the highest quality diamonds. Bulgari is available at The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers.

SHOP_OPENER_DXB_FEB12.indd 25

25/01/2012 11:41

Fa sh ion / s hop

Time travel Traditional Arabian architecture meets the latest spring/summer collections in a fashion fusion of the past and present

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

Aneta wears: Gold dress and necklace, both Lanvin Patrick wears: Shirt Poggianti, trousers Rag&Bone

Aneta wears: Teal dress Lanvin Patrick wears: Shirt Marc Jacobs, Suit Gucci

Patrick wears: Polo shirt Moschino Aneta wears: Red dress Lanvin, Gold shoes Emilio Pucci

Concierge shoot - XVA Gallery - DXB2.indd 30

25/01/2012 19:11

Concierge shoot - XVA Gallery - DXB2.indd 31

25/01/2012 18:56

Aneta wears: Orange dress Lanvin, Gold shoes Emilio Pucci Patrick wears: Shirt Marc Jacobs, Trousers Alexander McQueen, Shoes Gucci, Belt Montblanc

Aneta wears: Black and blue dress Stella McCartney Patrick wears: Shirt and jacket Giorgio Armani, trousers Rag&Bone Opposite page: Gold dress Alexander McQueen

Stylist: Sarah Maisey—Hair & makeup: Gene Ginno Alducente—Models: Aneta and Patrick at Mansion Model—Location: XVA Gallery, Bastakiya, Dubai (www.xvagallery.com)

Concierge shoot - XVA Gallery - DXB2.indd 34

26/01/2012 14:26

Concierge shoot - XVA Gallery - DXB2.indd 35

25/01/2012 18:57

Diamond mine Whether it’s a collection of loose stones or a carefully crafted rock set in platinum, diamond jewellery is a big investment, so choose wisely

Q When Marilyn Monroe sang ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend’ she echoed the thoughts of women across the world. The very word ‘diamonds’ evokes a feeling of luxury, elegance, style and beauty because through the ages diamonds have been sought after, bartered with, traded for, auctioned off and sometimes stolen. They are the emblem of the rich and powerful and it is a rare individual who will turn down the chance to own a perfectly polished sparkler. After all, as the nine-times-married Zsa Zsa Gabor once famously said: “I’ve never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back.” Derived from the Greek word ‘adamas’, meaning indestructible, diamonds are formed deep in the earth over millennia and are the hardest and most enduring of all precious stones. Dubai is a hotbed for gemstones and if you are in the market to purchase diamonds the city is brimming with reputable jewellers who will happily supply you with anything from rough stones, to exquisitely hewn gemset rings, pendants, earrings and brooches. Whether your fondness is for yellow, pink, blue or ultra-rare red, you’re bound to find what you are looking for and generally at a much lower price than almost anywhere else in the world.

SHOP_DIAMONDS_DXB FEB12.indd 36

25/01/2012 17:24

D I A MON D S / s hop

SHOP_DIAMONDS_DXB FEB12.indd 37

25/01/2012 11:42

SHO P/ DIA MO N DS

1 Levant (previous page) 2&3 Tiffany & Co. 4 Garrard 5&6 Levant

4 2

The four Cs With so much choice, however, surely one runs the risk of being blinded by the bling? In other words how do you tell a top-quality stone from a dud? Colour, cut, clarity and carat are the internationally recognised criteria by which the value of a diamond is judged. Colour generally refers to the presence (or absence) of colour in white diamonds. A colourless diamond allows more light to pass through than a coloured diamond and therefore emits more sparkle. Only a few rare diamonds can be described as truly colourless. Thus the whiter a diamond’s colour, the more valuable it is. An important exception to this rule is the coloured diamond, which ranges from blue to green to bright yellow, pink or red. These are

A colourless diamond allows more light to pass through it than a coloured diamond and therfore emits more sparkle. Only a few rare diamonds can be described as truly colourless

some of the rarest and most expensive in the world. “Only one in every 10,000 diamonds possesses natural colour and is referred to as a ‘fancy colour diamond’,” explains Ghada El-Kari, merchandising director at Tiffany & Co. “For this reason, fancy colour diamonds are purchased almost exclusively for the intensity of the diamond’s colour. They are more valuable because of their rarity.” One of the rarest and most precious diamonds in the world is a fancy yellow diamond, which was acquired by Charles Tiffany in 1878. This 12.54-carat, 82-facet yellow diamond is on display in Tiffany & Co.’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York. In Dubai there are also some impressive collections. Leading jewellery brand Levant recently unveiled its new breathtaking selection of 13 red diamonds. Ranging in size from 0.46 to 1.16 carats, the entire set is just over 10 carats and was accumulated over an eight-year period.

SHOP_DIAMONDS_DXB FEB12.indd 38

25/01/2012 11:42

SHO P/ DIA MO N DS

7&8 Tiffany & Co. 9 Aliel 10 Levant

K N O W YO U R R I G H T S When buying a diamond, always request a certificate from either the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS), which are two of the most widely regarded and recognised diamond labs in the world. This official document is proof of the diamond’s exact measurement and weight, as well as the details of its cut and quality. All reputable diamond sellers will have access to the information. If you choose to purchase a diamond without documentation, you are buying the stone based purely on trust, which may not be a good investment.

The cut of a diamond refers to a diamond’s reflective qualities and is what gives the stone its brilliance or reflective sparkle. The angles and finish ultimately determine a diamond’s ability to handle light, which in turn leads to its twinkle. “A well-cut diamond captures the light around it and makes that light perform in breathtaking ways, so it’s important to always pay attention to cut,” says Mumaij Moidu, marketing manager at Levant. “Cut also refers to the overall shape and the way the stone is fashioned – princess, round, marquise, oval and so on.” Clarity is another important factor, as this refers to the unique and identifying flaws, on and within a gem. Most diamonds contain some flaws such as tiny inclusions, or scratches and chips on the surface. “Inclusions are enclosed within the diamond, whereas blemishes are on the surface of a polished diamond,” explains Moidu. “Inclusions normally have more impact on a diamond’s beauty and value than the blemishes and the value of a diamond generally depends on whether these flaws are visible to the naked eye.”

SHOP_DIAMONDS_DXB FEB12.indd 40

25/01/2012 11:42

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 ZARAY +971 4 4357558

sho p/ DIA MO N DS

Finally, carat is the unit of measurement used to weigh a diamond: one carat is equal to 200 milligrams (or 0.2 grams). Since large diamonds are rare they have a greater value per carat so the price of a diamond tends to rise with its carat size. “It’s important to note that value is not just numerical,” says Moidu. “While a one-carat diamond weighs the same as four 0.25-carat diamonds the one-carat diamond is worth more because its larger size makes it rarer.”

LEVANT

Miles of styles

ALIEL

Armed with this knowledge, a shopping spree in Dubai’s countless jewellery stores should be much more straightforward, but one thing to notice is the wide variety of styles on offer. Just as with clothes, diamonds have fashionable trends that come and go. In the noughties the tendency was to opt for large white diamonds, while the last few years has seen the emergence of coloured stones, with stars such as Jennifer Lopez and Heidi Klum sporting pink and yellow diamonds respectively. “Customers are now much more selective and exclusivity costs,” explains Moidu. “Recent trends have veered towards the more

Available at: Khalil Al Sayegh Jewellers, Al Maktoum Street

04 4341227

Located in: The Dubai Mall, Al Qasr and Mina A’ Salam, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray TIFFANY & CO. 04 3398350

Located in: All major shopping malls as well as Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 04 2276555

GARRARD 04 339 8386

Located in: All major shopping malls CARA JEWELLERS 04 3478089

Located in: Gold & Diamond Park

11 Levant 12 Cara Jewellers 13 Levant

Just as with clothes, diamonds have fashionable trends that come and go. In the noughties the tendency was to opt for large white diamonds, while the last few years has seen the emergence of coloured stones

unusual coloured diamonds. Yellow diamonds have been particularly popular, as well as rarer shades, such as blue and red.” There also tends to be a marked difference in the styles of jewellery favoured by different nationalities. For example, diamond jewellery worn by Arabic brides tends to be very ornate whereas European brides tend to opt for more subtle styles. Of course, with all this choice, you may find yourself in a world of indecision, but fear not, because there is a plethora of jewellery experts in the city who are on hand to create individual masterpieces. From statement solitaire rings to one-of-a-kind bracelets, the possibilities are endless.

SHOP_DIAMONDS_DXB FEB12.indd 42

25/01/2012 17:25

8-23 FEBRUARY 2012

A Masterful Collection of Culinary Arts Be mesmerised as acclaimed Master Chefs from over 15 countries transform simple ingredients into gourmet masterpieces, tempting your palate with gastronomic delights ranging from contemporary French to fusion Japanese to traditional Arabian cuisine. Over 16 days and nights, you’ll be charmed by culinary aficionados and treated to a programme of chateaux and themed dinners, pastry brunches, insightful masterclasses and memorable feasts. Because, in every dish a world of flavour awaits you, discover them all at Gourmet Abu Dhabi 2012. 8 – 23 February 2012, at over 20 of the finest dining venues. For reservations please call +971 2 4181401 | www.gourmetabudhabi.ae Presented By

47233 Concierge Gourmet AD 275X220 English.indd 1

2012/01/19 12:14 PM

SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB12.indd 44

25/01/2012 14:18

W a t che s / s hop

time is precious ...So don’t waste a moment with a less than stunning timepiece. Instead, be the belle of the ball with an elegant evening watch

Q TAG Heuer Formula 1 Lady Steel & Ceramic Pavée TAG Heuer muse, Jessica Michibata, was the perfect inspiration for the new Formula 1 Lady Steel & Ceramic Pavée. Like the stunning Japanese-born fashion model who dates McLaren driver Jenson Button and has been an ambassador for TAG Heuer since 2011, this timepiece is bold yet feminine and possesses a distinctive elegance that sets it apart from other watches. The 37mm case, which is polished in stainless steel and crafted from scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, supports the signature Formula One bezel and 84 Wesselton diamonds. Each of the dazzling stones is set with four stainless steel beads and closed by hand, after which the stones are polished to perfection to create superior sparkle. Gorgeously feminine and smooth, this timepiece features high-precision movements and is waterproof to 200 metres.

SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB12.indd 45

25/01/2012 17:26

SHO P/ WA TCHES

Breguet Reine De Naples

Two hundred years ago A.L. Breguet was entrusted to design a watch for Napoleon Bonaparte’s sister Caroline, Queen of Naples. As a tribute to the original, this elegant timepiece features 117 full-cut diamonds. Breguet has also introduced a function called the Grande Complication. Every hour, two hammers strike twice to signify an hour passing.

Tiffany & Co. Tonneau

As you would expect from a brand that has been at the forefront of jewellery design since 1837, Tiffany & Co. never ceases to amaze. One of the latest creations to come from the American powerhouse is the Tonneau cocktail watch. Crafted from 18k white gold, this timepiece is encrusted with a grand total of 566 diamonds.

One of the latest creations to come from Tiffany & Co. is the Tonneau cocktail watch. Crafted from 18k white gold, this timepiece is encrusted with 566 diamonds

1 TAG Heuer Formula 1 Lady Steel & Ceramic Pavée (previous page) 2 Tiffany & Co. Tonneau 3 Van Cleef & Arpels Charms Mini 4 Saint Honore Opera 5 Breguet Reine De Naples

Van Cleef & Arpels Charms Mini Ingenuity and expertise are the key elements of every Van Cleef & Arpels creation and the Charms Mini is no exception. Available in white or pink gold, this ultra-stylish watch makes every moment special with its iconic diamond-set Alhambra motif – a symbol of true love, good health, fortune and luck. Detailed on the dial itself and playfully attached to the side of the case via a ring, the charm, which is set with diamonds, turns freely around the dial. For those who like to accessorise, interchangeable straps are available in black satin and bright alligator leather.

Saint Honore Opera

The renowned French-Swiss manufacturer of luxury ‘Paris Style’ watches has wowed once more with Opera. A unique blend of watchmaking know-how and luxury detail, this effortlessly feminine timepiece, with elegant diamond detail and chic interchangeable straps, brings a new facet of femininity to the world of horology. The totallyround case conjures up softness and underlines the exclusivity of this model, which is conveniently available in two different versions – a 33mm and 37mm. In addition, the case is extended for even greater comfort by moveable horns that match the shape of the wrist perfectly.

SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB12.indd 46

26/01/2012 15:44

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

SHO P/ WA TCHES

Boucheron Crazy Jungle Seahorse The artisans at Boucheron have taken inspiration from the depths of the ocean with their latest creation, the Crazy Jungle Seahorse. The grandiose timepiece features a gem-encrusted seahorse-design which appears to almost glide across the motherof-pearl dial. Framing the seascape of the rose gold watch is a bezel covered in 48 brilliant-cut white diamonds. The heritage of Boucheron is apparent along the side of watch, where the house’s iconic Pointes de Diamante motif subtly identifies the timepiece as Boucheron.

6 Damas Varotti 7 Boucheron Crazy Jungle Seahouse 8 Bulgari Mediterranean Eden

The heritage of Boucheron is apparent along the side of the watch, where the house’s iconic Pointes de Diamante motif subtly identifies the timepiece

Damas Varotti

WHERE TO BY

Make a striking style statement with Damas’s new in-house Varotti collection. Exclusively crafted in 18k white or yellow gold, these elegant timepieces are typical of Damas – a brand that is synonymous with luxury, style and elegance. The diamond-embellished case and bezel on this graceful timepiece is a dazzling example of opulence and symbolises the design and quality that the UAE jewellery house has become famous for.

BREGUET AND TIFFANY & CO. Available from Rivoli

Bulgari Mediterranean Eden Proving that high-end jewellery and horology are not mutually exclusive, House of Bulgari has created Mediterranean Eden – an elegant tribute to the brand’s Greek origins. These exquisite timepieces, clothed in a rose or white gold case and adorned with pearls and diamonds, feature playful open-worked covers. Designed in the style of so-called ‘secret’ watches, which refers to when the cover is closed, it delicately conceals the mother-of-pearl dial, which is decorated with an arabesque motif.

800 RIVOLI (748654)

Located in: All major shopping malls as well as the Burj Al Arab, the One&Only Royal Mirage, the Dusit Thani Dubai, Grosvenor House Dubai, The Address Downtown Dubai, the Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the Gold & Diamond Park, The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residences, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and the Media Rotana. SAINT HONORE Available from Paris Gallery 04 2372222 Located in: All major shopping malls

TAG HEUER AND VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Available from 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

BULGARI AND BOUCHERON Available from all major shopping malls 04 3308834 and 04 3410039

DAMAS Available from Damas stores 04 4459000 Located in: All major shopping malls

SHOP_WATCHES_DXB FEB12.indd 48

26/01/2012 15:45

2011_GuidelinesADS_Single.indd 1

17/01/2012 12:27:40 PM

SHOP_VALENTINE GIFTS_DXB FEB12.indd 50

25/01/2012 11:54

GI FT S / s hop

Present and Correct Make Valentine’s Day one to remember with these objects of affection

Q As well as being the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day is also a veritable minefield for wellmeaning gift givers who miss the mark when it comes to sourcing the ‘perfect’ presents for their loved ones. Most of us are privvy to the golden rules that surround V-Day, such as avoiding anything heart-shaped, steering clear of housework-related goods and never (under any circumstances) splashing out on self improvement books. The only message attached to the latter is ‘you need to be better’, which is unlikely to woo your other half. That’s a start, but if you’re still struggling for romantic inspiration, turn the page for a round up of gifts which are sure to inspire passion, devotion and romance. From Valentine-themed chronographs and timeless Tiffany & Co. jewellery – the ultimate expression of love – to more practical gifts, such as luxury luggage and high-end stationery, the possibilties are endless for February 14.

SHOP_VALENTINE GIFTS_DXB FEB12.indd 51

25/01/2012 17:32

SHO P/ GIFTS

For her...

Tiffany & Co. For a Valentine’s present that needs no introduction, head to Tiffany & Co., the promised land of girly gifts. From statement solitaire rings to diamond-encrusted pendants, each prized piece is more aweinspiring than the next. But for a nudge in the right direction, look out for these beautiful blue tourmaline and diamond drop earrings, which are set in platinum.

Damas It seems Lebanese singing sensation Nancy Ajram (pictured) has the midas touch, because she is the inspiration behind the exquisite Farfasha collection from Damas. Moonlight, the latest range, boasts 35 beautifully designed pieces, which are each crafted from 18k gold.

Carolina Herrera iPad case If it’s luxury and practicality she’s after you needn’t look further than Carolina Herrera’s ultra-chic and sleek iPad cases. From standout colours to trendy prints, she’ll think of you every time she carries her iPad. 1 2 3 4 6

Nancy Ajram Tiffany & Co. Damiani, Damianissima Lancel 5 Carolina Herrera Blancpain Saint-Valentin 2012

Lancel Valentine collection

In honour of Valentine’s Day, legendary French fashion house, Lancel, has created a romantic range of handbags that blend passion and fashion. Le Premier Flirt, L’Adjani and B.Bardot each come in shades of pink and red and promise to make her heart beat faster.

Damiani, Damianissima Luxury jewellery brand Damiani presents its iconic collection, Damianissima for Valentine’s Day. Designed in three rich colours of gold – white, pink, yellow – and enhanced by sparkling diamonds, this collection is filled with passionate pieces, which are perfect for the most romantic day of the year.

Blancpain Saint-Valentin 2012

As the name suggests, the Blancpain SaintValentin 2012 is the French watchmakers annual creation for Valentine’s Day. This limited series of 14 watches is set with 2.95 carats of precious stones and offers a fresh take on the refined aesthetics of the Blancpain Women collection.

SHOP_VALENTINE GIFTS_DXB FEB12.indd 52

25/01/2012 11:55

Bricâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boutique - Dubai Mall - Tel.+971.4.3398393 Sharief Stores - Dubai Mall - Tel.+971.4.3398742 / Mall Of The Emirates - Tel.+971.4.3411000 Burjuman Centre - Tel.+971.4.3553377 / Hamarain Centre - Tel.+971.4.2699919 Al Ghurair Centre - Tel.+971.4.2214339 / Abu Dhabi Mall - Tel.+971.2.6447772

SHO P/ GIFTS

For him...

Dunhill belt Belts for men are like shoes for women: you can never have too many, which is why Dunhill’s black leather belt with silver clasp is a classy gift for Valentine’s Day. Stylish and sophisticated, it will ensure he’s Valentine’s dinner-ready on February 14.

S.T. Dupont Magic Wishes pen It’s almost 40 years since S.T. Dupont launched its first luxury ballpoint pen and the high-end brand has once again broken ground with the Magic Wishes pen. Inspired by the romantic tale of Aladdin and the magic lamp, this distinctive writing implement is decorated with a curl of smoke motif, which depicts the legendary genie. In true S.T. Dupont style, the pattern is expertly worked into black lacquer and offset by a rich palladium finish, making it the perfect homage to the magical tale.

The black transversal 24-hour bag from Tod’s is perfect for a commute, overnight stay or visit to the gym. Practicality meets luxury with this expertly crafted soft leather hold all 7 Paul Walker 8 Tod’s 9 Davidoff Cool Water 10 S.T. Dupont 11 Dunhill

Davidoff Cool Water The legendary aroma of Davidoff Cool Water is perfectly personified by Paul Walker (pictured), the face of the fragrance. The Hollywood actor, who also counts marine biologist and surfer among his credentials, was the natural choice for the iconic brand. Cool, crisp and refreshing, the scent is the epitome of masculinity, making it the perfect choice for a Valentine’s beau.

Tod’s 24-hour bag As every intrepid traveller knows, it’s carry-on luggage all the way. But even if you’re not circling the globe, the black transversal 24-hour bag from Tod’s is perfect for a commute, overnight stay or visit to the gym. Practicality meets luxury with this expertly crafted soft leather hold all, which comes with a long shoulder strap for chic convenience.

SHOP_VALENTINE GIFTS_DXB FEB12.indd 54

25/01/2012 11:55

Discover Hunters in harmony

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

A race to remember Keeping ancient sailing traditions alive, dhow racing is a popular sport in the UAE

Q W O R D S B Y C h a r l o t t e V a n D e n B ro u c q u e

Once upon a time in Dubai, long before the oil was discovered, sailing was the lifeblood of the small fishing and trading community that clustered around the Creek. To sail was to be able to make a living from the natural resources of the sea and the wooden dhow was the boat of choice. The tranquil waters of the Creek provided a safe haven for boats to dock and for traders to tout their wares. More than 150 years ago, traders would venture to India and East Africa to sell dates, spices, textiles and pearls. The ancient pearling industry was the main source of income as the demand for the precious material increased around the world. Dhow owners would employ divers and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pullersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, whose job it was to haul the diver back on board with a rope from the seabed, which was up to 40 metres below the surface. The white sails of the dhows would appear orange from the log fire on deck as the boats returned in the evenings to the traditional song of the pearlers. The wooden dhow has become a cultural symbol of the UAE, with the skills and techniques for building this special type of boat handed down from generation to generation. In certain areas of the UAE, including Al Bateen Shipyard in Abu Dhabi, boat builders can still be seen creating these incredible teak boats, using the same tools as their forefathers and with no written plans or templates. Known only to the boat maker, the design and measurements are made by eye and experience. The extremely labour-intensive process sees treated logs sawn, chiselled and drilled by hand as the body of the dhow takes shape. It can cost as much as AED500,000 ($US136,000) to build one of these magnificent boats. Huge white sails called lateens are added to the finished vessels to catch the wind and move the boats quickly through the water. The boat contains no motor, satellite navigation or mod cons. The successful sailing of the dhow relies on the experience and brawn of crew members.

D HOW RA CI N G/ DIS COVE R

DISCOVER_DHOW RACING_DXB FEB12.indd 61

25/01/2012 17:36

DIS C O VER/DHO W RA C ING

A historic adventure Concerned that dhow building and sailing was becoming a lost art and recognising the rich heritage that has been brought to the region by this style of boat, in the mid 1980s Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum conceived the idea of a yearly season of dhow racing events. As well as remaining a method of transporting goods around the coast and Creek, specially adapted boats have given rise to a dhow racing culture, with a full calendar of events each year. Hundreds of purpose-built dhows compete, with three competitions for different boat sizes; 22-foot, 43-foot and 60-foot. As more and more vessels take part in the competition each year, it is clear that the community has embraced its roots and is keeping the tradition alive through the sport. The rapidly developing nature of the UAE makes it all the more important that traditional cultures, skills and knowledge are retained for generations to come and maintain a link with the heritage of their ancestors. Saeed Hareb, president of the of the UAE Marine Sports Federation and the managing director of the Dubai International Marine Club, is

passionate about keeping the culture of the dhow alive. He says of young UAE nationals, “Sailing is in their blood. Their fathers and grandfathers were all sailors because they lived by the sea and it was the only means of transportation and trading. In addition, a lot of them were fishermen so they have known dhows all their lives. Yet life and society are evolving and as a result we don’t want them to turn their back to the sea”. The first dhow race took place in 1986, organised by the Dubai International Marine Club. Since then the sport’s popularity has increased exponentially and there are over 20 events each year as part of the Majid Bin Mohammed Watersports Championships. Dhows must meet strict specifications, with varnished teak hulls, a wooden mast and bowsprit and a white sail, which may be made of stronger and lighter polyester fabrics rather than the traditional cotton. The crafts are built without a weighted keel, which in other types of boats keeps the whole ship steady and upright on the water. In dhow racing, crews rely instead on their own weight and positioning on the deck to help counterbalance the tip of the boat. The 43-foot and 60-foot

The rapidly developing nature of the UAE makes it all the more important that traditional cultures, skills and knowledge are retained for generations to come

Throw caution to the wind... If you’re interested in watching the races, there’s a lot to look forward to over the next few months. On February 18, head over to the Dubai International Marine Club to see the 43-foot Dubai Traditional Sailing Race.On February 25 the fun continues with the 22-foot race and this is followed by the second round of the 60-foot sailing dhow race, which will take place on April 28. The much-anticipated final will begin on the morning of May 26.

FAC T The word ‘dhow’ is derived from the Iranian word ‘dawh’ meaning sailing vessel.

DISCOVER_DHOW RACING_DXB FEB12.indd 62

25/01/2012 17:37

ferrariworldabudhabi.com ferrariworldabudhabi.com Delivered by Aldar

IT’S YOUR TURN

TO FEEL THE THRILL

When you hit 240km/h in less than 5 seconds, don’t forget to breathe. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari branded theme park, you finally have the chance to live the racing dream in ways you never imagined possible. Experience the legend like never before, with over 20 rides and attractions in the world’s largest indoor theme park.

D HOW RA CI N G/ DIS COVE R

dhows race with a crew of 14 and followed by a support boat with an extra three crew members to recover any men who happen to fall overboard. They also carry up to 50 sandbags, which can be moved around the boat mid-sail to offer better balance. The skipper decides where the crew and the sandbags should be placed for maximum propulsion. If the wind dies down, then it’s common to see crews throwing sandbags overboard in an effort to keep up speed. If the wind then picks up again however, it’s more likely that the boat will capsize without the stabilising weight.

May. Only UAE nationals are allowed to compete in the 22-foot class, with teams of three to five sailors crewing the vessels. Last May, the Dalma Marine team sailed to victory on the ultimate race of the season in the long distance 60-foot traditional dhow race. This historic final leg is called ‘Al Gaffal’, meaning ‘the return’ as the route follows the dangerous course that was traditionally taken by pearl divers as they returned home after being away for months at sea. This year, the front runners in the 22-foot race are team Dahees. Skippered by Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouoqi, the team pipped others to the post in the first two rounds held in September and October. For the final leg, boats gather along the starting line by Sir Bu Na’air Island off the coast of Abu Dhabi and race back to the Mina Seyahi in Dubai, which is approximately 50 nautical kilometres away. Around 100 dhows compete for a prize fund of approximately AED10 million (US$2.7 million) and the glory of winning this prestigious title. Hareb said of the race, “These boats are unique in the modern world and represent so much of what is important in our culture. The crews are all families racing together and sharing experiences. Winning is important, but it is so much more than that as well.” See www.dimc.ae for more information.

“The crews are all families racing together and sharing experiences. Winning is important, but it is so much more than that as well”

During the race, like the calm before a storm, boats congregate along a starting line in the water. The silence is broken by an orange flare and skippers call instructions to the crew as they manically hoist the 30-metrelong mast upright and fix it in place. Only then can the sails be released in order to catch the wind. There is a time limit to hoisting the mast and teams can be disqualified if they aren’t quick enough. Skill, experience, strategy and strength are a winning formula if teams are to succeed. The massive triangular sails make dhow racing a great spectator sport, as boats are easily visible from the shoreline. With around 20 events in each season, dhow racing is a sight to behold and a must-see for the Dubai visitor. The races can take anywhere between 30 minutes and two hours depending on the wind speed and the distances covered. The starting and finishing lines are decided on the day as the crafts always race with the wind. The Dubai water sports season officially starts in September and runs until the end of

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

On your marks

DISCOVER_DHOW RACING_DXB FEB12.indd 65

25/01/2012 17:40

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

Walk This Way With an endless shoreline, shops and stunning views, The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence has a lot to offer

From the edge of Sheikh Zayed Road, the sky-high towers of Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) might look daunting, but do not let the imposing architecture fool you. Aside from being the largest single-phase residential development in the world, this relaxed seaside neighbourhood is also a popular shopping district with pedestrian-friendly walkways, beach and marina views and an eclectic selection of trendy bars and restaurants. A world away from the mega malls that Dubai is famous for, The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence offers a different type of retail experience. A 1.7-kilometre beachside shopping promenade with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, the Walk is peppered with a diverse assortment of luxury boutiques, exclusive jewellery

1 1 The Covent Garden Market Dubai 2 The Walk

As the name suggests, the best way to explore The Walk is on foot. While the area is accessible by car, parking is limited, so we recommend you take advantage of the Dubai Metro which stops nearby at Jumeirah Lake Towers

stores and high-street shops, interspersed with chic cafés where diners can take in the smell of sea air while they dine alfresco. On Wednesday and Thursdays evenings from 5pm to midnight and Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 9pm, the area is further enhanced by the Covent Garden Market Dubai, where a total of 55 artists, jewellery makers and fashion designers congregate to sell a rich variety of wares. As well as being a great place to snap up unique buys, it’s equally satisfying to take a seat on one of the promenade benches and soak up the atmosphere. As the name suggests, the best way to explore The Walk is on foot. While the area is accessible by car, parking is limited and traffic is heavy, so we recommend taking advantage of the Dubai Metro, which stops nearby at Jumeirah Lakes Towers. With 47 stations, operating on two lines, travellers are guaranteed a convenient route from almost anywhere in the city. As you’d expect from such a picturesque district, there are photo opportunities around every corner. The Dubai Marina, where hundreds of exclusive yachts take pride of place in the aquamarine waters, and the views of Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, which twinkles on the horizon, are particular favourites.

DISCOVER_TOURIST TRAIL_DXB FEB12.indd 67

25/01/2012 18:49

Ancient History With 17 sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List, Al Ain is the ideal place to learn more about the emirate’s past

Q Words by Amanda Tomlinson

The United Arab Emirates is a land of contrasts. While Dubai has become famous for its ultra-modern skyscrapers, spacious shopping malls and opulent five-star hotels, Al Ain, in the Eastern Region of Abu Dhabi, is a place where tradition features prominently in everyday life. Often referred to as ‘the garden city’ due to its greenery, Al Ain is the second largest city in the UAE and the home of the country’s forefathers. It is also a place where visitors will find 17 UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites. The sites were added to the prestigious international list last year in a first for the UAE. The cultural sites are of geological, archaeological and historical importance and include the stunning Jebel Hafeet mountain, bronze and iron age sites of Al Hili, tombs of the Bida Bin Saud area and the oases with their falaj irrigation system. Inclusion on the list puts Al Ain alongside wellknown international sites such as the Great Wall of China, Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

DISCOVER_HERITAGE SITES_DXB FEB12.indd 68

25/01/2012 12:14

He ri t a ge s i t e s / DIS COVE R

DISCOVER_HERITAGE SITES_DXB FEB12.indd 69

25/01/2012 12:14

DIS C O VER /Herita ge sites

Heritage Heartland

While Al Ain is famed for its plentiful foilage, the well-preserved city is also home to an abundance of historical forts, making it the cultural and heritage heartland of the emirate. Its history dates back several thousand years and archaeological investigations have revealed that the area has been continuously inhabited since the late Stone Age period. Archaeological sites and artefacts have been found dating back to the Neolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Hellenistic pre-Islamic and Islamic eras, while there is also evidence the city traded with major cultures in the north (Mesopotamia and Persia) and the east (India and Pakistan). Al Ain is considered central to the historical heritage of the country so why not take a trip back in time and visit these sites?

Al Jahili Fort, which is the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s first president, was built in 1891 to defend the city and protect palm groves

Jebel Hafeet

1 Hafeet tombs (previous page) 2 Hili tombs 3 Al Jahili Fort 4&5 Al Ain Oasis

Falaj

This area contains over 500 graves, with Bronze Age cairn tombs. It dates to a period between 3200 and 2700 BC, also known as the Hafeet Period or the Hafeet Cultural Horizon. The tombs and their contents revealed Al Ain’s role at the crossroads of Mesopotamian trade.

During the Iron Age, the inhabitants of Al Ain began using the falaj, a system that enabled water to be transported from the mountains to the plains. It led to the construction of permanent settlement sites along with agriculture. The oldest falaj, which dates back to 1000 BC, is located at the Hili Archaeological Park. To see more examples of falaj, visit Al Ain Oasis.

Forts

Visitors will see numerous forts in Al Ain, which along with many other historic buildings such as towers, mosques and private palaces and residences, are reminiscent of the pre-1960 period before oil was discovered. The beautiful Al Jahili Fort, which is the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s first president, was built in 1891 to defend the city and protect palm groves. It now houses a permanent exhibition of work by British adventurer Wilfred Thesiger, who crossed the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) in the 1940s. The Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage also holds the annual Al Ain Classics music festival in the grounds of the fort.

DISCOVER_HERITAGE SITES_DXB FEB12.indd 70

25/01/2012 12:14

Generations of handcraf ted elegance !

STORES: Abu Hail: +9714 297 0789 | Mall of the Emirates: +9714 341 2237 | The Dubai Mall: +9714 339 9019 Mirdif City Centre: +9714 284 0440 | Deira City Centre: +9714 295 0066 | Bawadi Mall Al Ain: +9713 784 0992 Ras Al Khaimah MS ROAD: +9717 233 5547 Shawls & Scarves also available at ‘’Scarves & Glitters’’:- Deira City Centre: +9714 295 3625 Dubai Festival City: +9714 232 8430 | The Dubai Mall: +9714 330 8135 www.kashkha.ae, customer.care@kashkha.ae, +9714 296 4900 For trade enquiries please contact:nawab@kashkha.ae, raju@kashkha.ae

DIS C O VER /Herita ge sites

Al Ain Palace Museum was once the home of the late Sheikh Zayed and the hub of the city’s political life. Visitors will find a collection of portraits of the royal family, a family tree showing the sheikh’s lineage and a classroom where the children of the ruling family were privately educated.

Moving forward While 17 sites have so far been added to the World Heritage List, ADACH is actively restoring and preserving many other sites of cultural significance. Work is under way to preserve several fortresses

The city’s six oases have sustained the region as far back as the 2nd millennium BC and remain an active element of the city today 6 Hafeet tombs 7 Falaj 8 Green Mubazzarah

Museums To learn more about the history of Al Ain, a visit to the city’s museums is a must. Al Ain National Museum is divided into two main sections – ethnographical and archaeological – and provides an overview of the country’s traditions and culture as well as information on the people who inhabited the area up to 8,000 years ago. As well as artefacts, there is also an interesting collection of photographs showing Abu Dhabi in the 1960s.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH AND COURTESY OF ABU DHABI AUTHORITY FOR CULTURE AND HERITAGE AND ABU DHABI TOURISM AUTHORITY

Natural beauty As well as its cultural significance, Al Ain’s natural attractions include the desert, oases, date palm plantations, wadis and mountains. The city’s six oases have sustained the region as far back as the 2nd millennium BC and remain an active element of the city today. The harvesting of dates and other crops continues to be preserved and is passed down through generations. To discover the natural beauty, visit Al Ain Oasis or Green Mubazzarah at the foot of Jebel Hafeet.

and historical places, including the Jahili mosque and fortress and the Bin Hadi House in the Hili Oasis. Work is also being carried out to revive the original uses of many buildings, such as the old traditional market in Al Qattarah. Many will also be used for new purposes in a bid to integrate the buildings into the infrastructure of the city. So why not take a step back in time and explore the heritage heart of the emirate. With the UAE having recently celebrated its 40 th year, it’s the ideal time to discover how far the country has come.

DISCOVER_HERITAGE SITES_DXB FEB12.indd 72

25/01/2012 12:15

H RO N I S F

L.L.C.

P OL ITI M O ITALY

Shop No. 9, Sheikh Latifa Building, Nasr Square, Deira, Dubai-UAE. Tel / fax: +971 4 2227010 polychronis.spyropoulos@gmail.com

experience Stable tour

Enjoy a delicious trackside breakfast at The Meydan before taking an exciting tour of the stables at Meydan Racecourse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the home of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup. Prices start at AED250 for adults and AED200 for children aged four to 12. Children under four years old are not permitted on stable tours. For details call 04 3813333.

A STAR IS BJORN Concierge catches up with Thomas Bjorn, the 2001 Omega Dubai Desert Classic champion, as he prepares to tackle the Emirates Golf Club in championship mode for an astonishing 17th time…

Q WORDS BY ALAN EWENS

With three European Tour events on The Race to Dubai, the UAE is no novice when it comes to staging prestigious world-class golf tournaments. This month, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic – the tournament that launched the Middle East on to the global golfing map back in 1989 – is here again with a star-studded line-up and the reputation as being the ‘must play’ event on a Tour pro’s calendar. Over the years, Emirates Golf Club has welcomed and crowned the biggest names in world golf. Seve Ballesteros, Fred Couples, Ernie Els and Rory McIlroy have all staggered under the weight of lifting the tournament’s iconic trophy. Yet it was probably the first appearance in the tournament by a certain Tiger Eldrick Woods that is the most talkedabout Desert Classic moment – and the 14-time Major champion didn’t even win. When Woods rolled into Dubai at the peak of his powers in 2001, the tournament press machine went into overdrive and media flocked from all over the world to see the world number one in action in the Middle East. They left four days later having witnessed a duel in the desert that is still talked about to this day. “I think that Desert Classic was quite interesting for both of us,” smiles Thomas Bjorn as he sips a soft drink by the swimming pool at the Emirates Golf Club, where he swung his way to victory over Woods more than a decade ago. Bjorn and Woods were drawn together to play in the opening round of what was at the time Dubai’s only date on the European Tour calendar. As fate would have it, they would spend the next four gruelling days slugging it out, toe-to-toe, to determine the title in what has become one of the great UAE sporting highlights.

EXPERIENCE_GOLF_DXB_FEB12.indd 76

26/01/2012 14:33

GETTY / GALLO

GOL F/ E XP E R IE NCE

EXPERIENCE_GOLF_DXB_FEB12.indd 77

26/01/2012 14:55

EXPE R IENCE/GO LF

“You know, everyone wants to play here because there is such a great atmosphere. The Dubai World Championship is a great event but it doesn’t have that history yet. “People in Dubai relate so much to what happens at the Classic. The event draws big crowds, a great field and there are a lot of players who over the years have become part of Classic history – people like Ernie (Els) and Tiger may not be here this year but I am sure they will be back in the future.”

Par for the course

Bjorn in full f low is a heart-warming sight in golf. Just ask anyone who watched the cat-and-mouse, four-day encounter between he and Woods. With one hole remaining after a 71-hole pairing, the American was poised to pen the perfect ending with victory in front of the event’s biggest ever attendance. No-one, however, had shown the script to Bjorn and the Dane emerged triumphant after a flawless final hole flew in the face of Woods’ failed attempt to get down in par. It remains one of the finest moments in his golfing career and memories will certainly be stirred when Bjorn returns to the Emirates for his 17th Desert Classic in a row from February 9 to12. “It certainly doesn’t feel like 17 years,” he explains, during a lengthy winter break in Dubai after one of the best seasons in his

career when he won three times and finished ninth overall in the year-long Race to Dubai. “I simply love this tournament. I love the golf course and I have so many friends here. I feel like part of the club and have a lot of pride in the place. I feel very much at home as it’s the golf club I spend more time at than any other in the world.” With so many great memories, it’s little wonder that the powerful Dane enjoys returning to his Middle East ‘home’, a city that has made remarkable strides since launching the first all-grass championship course in the region in the late 1980s. “There have been some unbelievable changes. The Desert Classic has gone from being just a regular Tour event to one that is most appreciated by the players. As I said, it is a fantastic golf course and the set-up is brilliant.

While Woods did eventually go on to win the tournament in both 2006 and 2008, the fact that Bjorn had him on the run and edged him out when Woods was at the peak of his powers is something the Dane will never forget. “We know each other well and our relationship with each other grew from that event. I think he appreciated the four days of golf. Every time I did something, he had an answer and vice versa and it became one of those scenarios where we both played fantastically – but it was enjoyable as we both walked away thinking that was just great golf to be involved in.”

EXPERIENCE_GOLF_DXB_FEB12.indd 78

25/01/2012 17:54

Made in Italy

Лучшие итальянские меховые бренды JBR Walk opposite Ritz Carlton Hotel Dubai-UAE Tel: +971 4 454 1338

EXPE R IENCE/GO LF

number of golf courses and all of them are very good. Dubai is a fantastic destination and as a person who comes here a lot I know that at the right time of year it offers the best of everything. “Great weather, superb golf courses, first-class facilities – as a golf destination you can’t get any better than Dubai. I actually can’t think of anywhere in the world that offers more as a golf destination.” As if to prove the point, Bjorn packed up his family and brought them to Dubai to spend the winter season together. It is a move he feels may just be the catalyst to take his superb 2011 form into 2012. “We needed a winter break. The kids are at an age now where they know what I do. There was a time when they thought that Daddy just travels but now I want them to have a winter where we can be together and I can do all my stuff and not just go home for Christmas for two weeks. “We have been enjoying quality family time and I have been working on my game, which means I can be better prepared for the season ahead – probably better prepared than I have ever been in recent years.” While it will take a lot for Bjorn to improve on last season – “three wins in one year is

Bjorn’s accomplishments at his chosen sport are many. The first Dane to play in the Ryder Cup, victories as both player and vice captain in the biennial event, close calls in Major championships, 13 European Tour titles and over 15 million euros in prize money have helped make him one of the most successful players in European golf since he turned pro in 1993. But professional accolades aside, Bjorn has also been instrumental in crafting the Dubai golf scene. In 2004 he helped redesign the iconic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, which originally opened its doors in 1993, and is also an ambassador for ‘golf in Dubai’. “Players like myself and Henrik (Stenson) made Dubai home,” he explains. “While other players just visited we spent time here, so it was natural that we would be part of the development.” In his role as ambassador Bjorn travels the world and is always quick to tell anyone who will listen about the golfing benefits of this big-hitting desert oasis – although there are few he needs to convince these days. “The players really do look at Dubai as a serious golf venue – there are a great

“Great weather, superb golf courses, first-class facilities – as a golf destination you can’t get any better than Dubai. I actually can’t think of anywhere in the world that offers more as a golf destination”

EXPERIENCE_GOLF_DXB_FEB12.indd 80

26/01/2012 14:35

dining makes a new statement

Explore a whole new spice trail at Indo Thai

Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd. Dubai, UAE +9714 308 0000 | radissonblu.com

Radisson_DXB_FP_220X275_24jan12.indd 3

1/25/12 3:16 PM

EXPE R IENCE/GO LF

great on anyone’s schedule” – the Dane may yet be proving the adage that life really does begin at 40. A win at the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters in February 2011 was followed later in the season by back-to-back titles in stunning fashion, first capturing the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles then triumphing at the Omega European Masters by an impressive four shots. He also finished fourth in the Open Championship to underline that he is back to his imperious best. “I think a lot of people outside of the game perhaps thought I was finished but I never doubted myself,” he says. “I recommitted myself to the game and concentrated on working hard, practising and committing to what I know I can do. There was no doubt in my mind that I could do it again. “I still don’t think the top level of golf is any better than 10 years ago. The difference is there are now so many players at that level. You can’t play to 80 percent of your ability and get away with it – today you have to play at your absolute peak because if you don’t there are a lot of guys who can shoot you down.” Asked to name a couple of the players he believes will shine in 2012, Bjorn takes as much time as he would contemplating a tricky 12-footer for par.

B j o r n ’s H o l e s T o Wat c h At T h e Omega Dubai Desert Classic I think the Emirates Golf Club is a very balanced golf course but I would say holes seven, eight, 12 and 15 are the key. You have to play the par fives well but at any time in a golf tournament it’s about minimising your mistakes – and the silly mistakes come at the par-three 7th and the par-four 8 th. • The par-four 12 th is a hard, dog-leg left and again at the par-three 15th you can make silly bogeys, so I look at it more from that perspective. Play those holes well and you have a chance as there are shots to be made on the rest of the course. It’s important not to give anything away. • People talk about the 18 th and while it is a good hole and can offer great drama and atmosphere, as a golf hole it sometimes doesn’t give you what you deserve and vice versa. •

“I still don’t think the top level of golf is any better than 10 years ago. The difference is there are now so many players at that level. You can’t play to 80 percent of your ability and get away with it”

going green The Omega Dubai Desert Classic takes place from February 9 to 12 at the Emirates Golf Glub. For details visit

www.dubaidesertclassic.com

“I think Alvaro Quiros can take the next step up. Although he has an unbelievable all-round game, he needs to improve on his consistency, but I would like to think he can do it. Last year he had two wonderful wins in Dubai – including the Desert Classic – so if he can get more control over his game he can take it all the way. “The other player is an obvious choice. Lee Westwood is one of the best in the world and gets closest to how Tiger played in 2001. It is unbelievable how he plays and if he can get his putting momentum going he will be extremely difficult to beat.” With Bjorn set to line up alongside both stars such as Quiros and Westwood in this month’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic, it will be interesting to see how the 2001 champion fares against the other contenders. But, after such a mighty year in 2011, there is definitely no doubting Thomas.

EXPERIENCE_GOLF_DXB_FEB12.indd 82

26/01/2012 15:48

EXPERIENCE_SEA FISHING_DXB_FEB12.indd 84

25/01/2012 12:17

FI S H in g/ E XP E R IE NCE

HOOK, LINE AND SINKER Deep-sea fishing may not be the first activity that springs to mind on a visit to Dubai, but it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the emirate’s open seas and explore the treasures of the deep

Q Words by AOIBHLINN HESTER

“Lord, suffer me to catch a fish so big that even I, when talking of it afterwards, should have no need to lie,” recites David Taylor. The fleet captain for charter company Art Marine chuckles to himself as he recalls the old fisherman’s rhyme, taught to him by his grandfather. Taylor knows the thrill of landing a big one; when not out on the sea with clients, he likes nothing better than a day spent fishing off the coast of Dubai. “It’s relaxing, therapeutic and at the same time there are bursts of adrenaline and excitement,” he says. “You’re constantly waiting for the line to tighten and when it does, everyone gets excited.” Fishing and Dubai have been inextricably linked since the destination was a tiny settlement on the mouth of the Creek. For centuries, the sea provided a valuable source of food for the villages of Bur Dubai and Deira, as well as for the tribes living in the desert hinterland.

EXPERIENCE_SEA FISHING_DXB_FEB12.indd 85

25/01/2012 12:18

EXPE R IENCE/FISH i n g

Cruising for a catch Today, visitors to the UAE are as likely to depend on Australian beef and Irish lamb for a source of sustenance, as on fish caught from the Arabian Gulf. But the primordial instinct to fish is still ingrained in many of us. It’s no surprise that there is a strong demand for sea fishing trips here, from residents and visitors alike. The fishing season in the UA E begins in October and runs until summer. These months bring perfect weather for the sport. “Most of our clients come fishing for fun,” says Tarek Siam of Ultimate Charter. “Dubai is excellent for sea fishing. You’ve got the water, the sea is calm, the temperature not so cold. It’s relaxing, but, there’s the thrill of action. You’re waiting to see what you can catch.” So what can you catch in the waters off Dubai? Sailfish, once plentiful in the UAE’s waters, are much less common now. However, there is plenty of king fish, barracuda, queen fish, trevally, grouper (known locally as hammour) and bonito. The biggest fish caught nowadays are kingfish and large ones can measure between 20 and 30 kilograms.

The shipwrecks in the Arabian Gulf provide good spots for fishing. Many of the best grounds are located in the waters beyond Jebel Ali

EXPERIENCE_SEA FISHING_DXB_FEB12.indd 86

25/01/2012 12:18

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than just High Tea. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect sightseeing experience. Indulge in a refined afternoon experience onboard Bateaux Dubai. Take in the traditional sights along the Dubai Creek on the 45 minute cruise which beautifully combines delicious creations with essential sightseeing. The chef and his team onboard have created a superb high tea menu consisting of a variety of gourmet sandwiches, warm scones with homemade jam and clotted cream, plus a choice of delectable pastries. Boarding starts 3pm and Bateaux Dubai cruises daily at 3.30pm.

high tea starts from just aed 75* per person For reservations, timings and menu options, please contact Bateaux Dubai on 04 399 4994 or email mail@bateauxdubai.com

www.bateauxdubai.com bateauxdubai

*Rate inclusive of 10% municipality fees. Terms and conditions apply.

EXPE R IENCE/FISH i n g

A taste of the ocean The shipwrecks in the Arabian Gulf provide good spots for fishing. Many of the best grounds are located in the waters beyond Jebel Ali. Companies in Dubai offer a range of sea trips and cater for everyone from experienced fishermen to complete beginners, from individuals to families and groups of friends. Options can range from a simple place on a shared fishing trip to the use of a luxury boat for a whole day. Staff on board can help with all aspects of the trip and will gladly offer advice on various things, including bait. For bottom fishing, small fry fish such as squid and prawns are used, and for trolling, rappala or spoons. Staff will also give advice on fish that are controlled species. For example, those who catch large hammour are encouraged to put them back. Though still regularly seen on menus in Dubai’s restaurants, the hammour has suffered from overfishing. Of course, it’s fun to catch the fish, but just as much fun to eat what you’ve caught. Ultimate Charter, for example, has boats with barbecue facilities on board and many of Dubai’s hotels provide a service where the restaurants will cook fish caught by their guests. So what attracts so many people to fishing? “It’s a primal thing”, Taylor says. “It’s a basic instinct, catching one’s own food and cooking it. Nothing tastes better than fresh fish you have caught yourself.”

S e a f is h i n g i n D u b a i Prices below include soft drinks, light snacks, all fishing equipment and bait, a guide, captain and fuel. Boats are generally equipped with outrig and downrig for trolling and deep fishing (although customers should check this with companies when making reservations). Art Marine 04 3481281

www.artmarine.net Sea fishing trips range from AED750 per hour to approximately AED 2,000 per hour, depending on the size of boat and number of passengers. Boats leave from Jumeirah Beach Hotel Marina first yacht 056 7897415

www.f1yacht.com Prices start at AED3,400 for a four-hour fishing trip for a maximum of seven people. You can choose between a 31-foot yacht and a 36-foot yacht for your trip. All First Yacht boats carry full passenger insurance as well as equipment and safety gear for adults and children.

Ultimate Charter 04 3254975 www.dubaiultimatecharter.com

AED1,800 for a four-hour private fishing trip on a 36-foot boat (up to nine guests). The company offers a rate of AED300 per person for a four-hour trip on a shared basis. Ultimate Charter has a ‘no fish, no pay’ guarantee on full-day trips. yacht charters & deep sea fishing 04 2959477

Prices start at AED2,400 for a maximum of eight people. Light refreshments are served, full fishing equipment provided.

...Or In Oman no boundaries +96895951810

www.noboundariesoman.com For an adventure in southern Oman, locally based adventure tourism company No Boundaries offers full-day fishing trips, with the option to stay overnight in a lodge. Prices start at US$1,200 (AED4,400) a day for up to four people. A full board stay in one of the lodges is priced at US$120 (AED440) a night.

EXPERIENCE_SEA FISHING_DXB_FEB12.indd 88

26/01/2012 17:32

Taste Magnolia

Dubai is famous for its fine restaurants. From gourmet steakhouses to pan Asian eateries, every type of cuisine is on offer. Vegetarian restaurant Magnolia at Madinat Jumeirah offers a delicious meat-free menu along with beautiful views over the meandering waterways. Dine alfresco and soak up the idyllic atmosphere. For bookings call 04 3666380.

TASTE_OPENER_DXB_FEB12.indd 91

25/01/2012 18:08

Come dine with me... The most romantic day of the year is upon us. If you’re yet to make a booking, let Concierge lead the way

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

Whether you say it with candy, a card or hand-delivered flowers, February is the month to say ‘I love you’. It also means the pressure is on to create the ultimate romantic experience and with a plethora of Michelin-starred chefs and five-star eateries, it’s not surprising that many travellers flock to Dubai for a romantic escape. But from idyllic waterside dining to everpacked wine-friendly bistros, finding the perfect setting is a bit like finding the perfect partner – totally subjective. For that reason, we’ve rounded up a selection of restaurants, which are as romantic as they are different. If you prefer the intimate setting of a dimly lit steakhouse, we recommend one of Dubai’s newest arrivals, Gaucho Dubai, which is famed for its assortment of sumptuous meat dishes. Those looking for a taste of the majestic should direct their attention to acclaimed seafood restaurant, Al Mahara, which is located at the world-famous Burj Al Arab (pictured). Alternatively, try award-winning French cuisine at Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire at InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Overseen by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire, this world-class eatery is famed for its mouth-watering menu and attentive team, who take attention to detail to a whole new level. February is also the perfect time of year to indulge in a bit of alfresco dining and scenic spots such as Eauzone, at One & Only Royal Mirage and Pierchic at Al Qasr Hotel offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. The choices are endless, but whatever your preference we guarantee there’s something that will get your heart racing, so read on and choose wisely.

TASTE_ROMANTIC DINING_DXB FEB12.indd 92

25/01/2012 18:09

al mahara

ROMA N T I C D I N I N G/ T a ste

TASTE_ROMANTIC DINING_DXB FEB12.indd 93

25/01/2012 12:21

stars, fOOd & art 7 chefs, 12 Michelin stars | tuesday 3rd april 2012

a unique culinary experience, gathering Michelin starred and celebrity chefs On Tuesday 3rd April 2012, the Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach will host the ‘Stars, Food & Art’ culinary gala event. A ‘first’ for the Middle East, 7 international renowned chefs, together representing 12 Michelin stars, will prepare their signature dishes during an exclusive dinner by the pool. The event will be further enhanced by live artistic performances. Tickets to this exclusive event are available for: aed 2500 per person or AED 22000 for a table of 10 8-course dinner including premium beverage pairing Private gourmands as well as companies will be able to partake in this unique gastronomic experience.

Thomas Bühner ***. La Vie, Osnabruck | Claire Clark ***, The French Laundry, California Giovanni d’Amato **, Il Rigoletto, Reggiolo | Christophe Aribert **, Les Terrasses, Uriage-les-bains Bernard Bach **, Le Puits St Jacques | Cyrus Todiwala, Spice Namaste, London | Joe Barza, Chase, Beirut

Information and reservations T. (+971) 4 448 4851 or H6146-FB2@sofitel.com Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina, UAE

www.starsfoodart.com

SOF SFA CONC 220x275 Ad v4.indd 1

19/01/2012 15:03

0:52

ROMA N T I C D I N I N G/ T a ste

Al Mahara Nothing says ‘I love you’ like an eyepoppingly opulent restaurant, so this Valentine’s Day, book a table at Al Mahara – the Burj Al Arab’s signature seafood restaurant. Probably the only restaurant in the world that necessitates a ‘submarine ride’ (a motion simulator replicates the real thing) after stepping inside a capsule you arrive three minutes later in a room of regal red, blue and gold, surrounded by a giant aquarium, which is abundant with marine life, including sharks and stingrays. In true Burj Al Arab style, everything from the service to the set of choices on the menu is luxurious and it’s difficult not to be left open-jawed when glancing through the menu, which includes dishes such as caviar ocsietra gold (caviar sprinkled with gold leaf) and hand-dived scallops. As well as being magnificent, the whole experience is entertainingly surreal. After all, where else in the world could hungry diners merrily munch on a selection of gourmet dishes, such as yellowfin tuna mosaic and prawns millefeuille, while hungry sharks watch on from the aquarium? Location: Burj Al Arab / Try: Atlantic wild turbot Open: Daily 7pm to midnight / Tel: 04 3016076

S w e e t Va l e n t i n e Forget the diet for one night and push the boat out with the Burj Al Arab Chocolate Sphere, which is made with a delicious blend of caramel, chocolate, raspberry and red pepper compote.

Pierchic

S w e e t Va l e n t i n e

Once seated on the wooden decks at Pierchic, you’ll find yourself completely transported from the busy metropolis of Dubai to an idyllic hideaway in the middle of the sea. With the fantastical lights of the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai contrasted against the peaceful backdrop of the Gulf’s azure waters, this one-of-akind restaurant is a fairytale setting. Located at the far end of the pier, from the shore this stylish eatery glows serenely and judging by its high-end location, one might expect it to err on the side of grandiose. However, despite the high-class seafood menu and the staff, who not only attend to, but anticipate your every need, the open-plan venue creates a cool and relaxed atmosphere. Diners are able to unwind and feel utterly at home as they enjoy a selection of exquisite dishes including the mouthwatering Atlantic lobster salad.

Pierchic is famous for its extensive dessert menu so take your time when it comes to selecting a sweet. For a nudge in the right direction, try the moist marmalade cake with a tangy mandarin twist.

Location: Al Qasr Hotel Try: Freshly shucked oysters Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 3666730

TASTE_ROMANTIC DINING_DXB FEB12.indd 95

25/01/2012 18:10

ROMA N T I C D I N I N G/ T a ste

S w e e t Va l e n t i n e

Thiptara

For authentic Thai desserts, you can’t go wrong at Thiptara. An exotic blend of chestnut, coconut milk, jackfruit, palm seeds, tapioca and refreshing crushed ice, Red Ruby is the delicious jewel in the restaurant’s culinary crown.

With expertly placed spotlights, flickering flames and swaying palm trees, Thiptara is a visual spectacle all by itself. Add to the mix the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, the tranquil waters of the Burj Lake and the mesmerising display of The Dubai Fountain and you have one of the most stunning locations in the city. And that’s before you’ve even walked through the doors. Meaning ‘the magic at the water’ in Thai, Thiptara lives up to its name. The sleek décor, which is a blend of dark wood and light tones, is brought to life by the floorto-ceiling windows, which provide idyllic views. The menu is no less captivating with an array of tempting Thai dishes. The crispy fried prawn toast with sweet ginger soy sauce is a little bite of Bangkok, while the Thai-flavoured baby calamari salad is evocative of Phuket beach dining at its best. After your meal don’t forget to drop by FAI, the chic and vibrant cocktail lounge just next door. The wide-ranging cocktail menu includes all the old favourites from margaritas to mojitos, but if you’re feeling adventurous give the Love In Fai a try. A delicious mix of raspberry-infused vodka, Chambord, cream and raspberry puree, you won’t regret it. Location: The Palace – The Old Town Try: Satay kay yang / Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm Tel: 04 4287888

Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire

S w e e t Va l e n t i n e

For a romantic experience you’ll never forget, you might decide to draw on the skills of culinary mastermind Pierre Gagnaire. The Michelin-starred chef, who has worldclass restaurants in Paris, Tokyo and Hong Kong, burst onto the Dubai restaurant scene in 2008 with Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire. When it comes to romance, this place has it in abundance. From the flamboyant décor to the polite staff, who exude genuine warmth, it’s hard to leave without a sparkle in your eye – even if it does comes from the extensive wine list. The menu is equally inviting with delectable culinary creations such as wagyu beef and fillet of wild sea bass gracing the fine bone china plates.

For a little taste of pure decadence, try the Chocolate Dubai – Reflets’ signature dessert. A mixture of Brazil chocolate mousse, caramel, almond and pear, it’s a sweet way to end a romantic evening.

Location: InterContinental Dubai Festival City Try: Roasted scallops Open: Monday to Friday 7 to 11pm Tel: 04 7011111

TASTE_ROMANTIC DINING_DXB FEB12.indd 97

25/01/2012 18:11

100% Process Black

SOF CncrgeVlntne Ad 220x275.indd 2

18/01/2012 10:52

ROMA N T I C D I N I N G/ T a ste

Eauzone Hidden away in the secluded beauty of the One & Only Royal Mirage is Eauzone, a little piece of culinary paradise. Set on a wooden jetty in a lagoon-like pool this picturesque spot, with elegant evening lighting and a handful of flickering candles, has become a top choice for diners seeking a romantic soirée. As you’d expect from the One & Only Royal Mirage, one of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels, the service is second-to-none. The staff, who are expert in everything from the texture of the foie gras to which wines best complement Boston lobster, are on hand to assist in any manner you can think of. From a shawl to warm the shoulders to a rare dessert that doesn’t appear on the menu, no request is too much. With exceptional service and setting, it’s no surprise that the menu follows suit. Combining European fare with Thai and Chinese twists, dishes such as marinated beef tataki and coconut and king prawn red curry are enough to send even the most discerning foodies to seventh heaven.

S w e e t Va l e n t i n e For a melt-in-the-mouth masterpiece, try the delectable black chocolate and passion fruit mousse, which is served with refreshing green tea ice cream and strawberries.

Location: One & Only Royal Mirage Try: Foie gras ballotine Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 3999999

The 160-seat restaurant, which is decorated with distinctive cowhide walls, mirror panels and opulent black and white leather furniture (more stylish than it sounds) is a feast for the eyes

Gaucho Dubai

S w e e t va l e n t i n e

In the heart of Dubai’s cosmopolitan financial district (DIFC) you’ll find the city’s latest restaurant arrival, Gaucho Dubai. This award-winning eatery, which hails from London, is famous for its sumptuous steak and mouthwatering ceviches. The 160-seat restaurant, which is decorated with distinctive cowhide walls, mirror panels and opulent black and white leather furniture (more stylish than it sounds), is a feast for the eyes, but nothing compares to the menu, which has been carefully cultivated by renowned executive chef Fernando Trocco. With an international career spanning 30 years, Argentinean-born Trocco oversees all culinary developments at Gaucho Dubai and has brought his signature style to many of the palatable dishes.

While Gaucho is famed for serving fine Argentinean meats, the desserts are also rather impressive. Try the chocolate and hazelnut truffles.

Location: DIFC / Try: Beef empanada Open: Daily 11.30am to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 4227898

TASTE_ROMANTIC DINING_DXB FEB12.indd 99

25/01/2012 12:22

100

TASTE_LOCAL FLAVOUR_DXB FEB12.indd 100

25/01/2012 12:23

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

Pearls of the plate Lovers of fine food will soon be able to feast on caviar produced in Abu Dhabi. The Royal Caviar Company opened in the capital in 2011 and its first commercial batch of caviar is expected to be produced later this year. It will become the world’s largest and most technologically advanced producer of high-quality caviar, supplying up to 35 tonnes annually from homegrown sturgeon. Fetching US$4 to US$6 (AED15 to AED22) per gram, there is a growing demand for quality caviar, particularly in the Middle East and Asia. In fact, 14 tonnes of caviar is consumed annually just in the UAE. In the wild, sturgeon is considered endangered which is why the farmed variety is becoming increasingly popular as an environmentally friendly delicacy. Robert Harper, group commercial director of Bin Salem Holding, the Abu Dhabi-based family-owned holding group behind The Royal Caviar Company, says Abu Dhabi’s location makes it ideal for distribution to t he world’s growing markets for high-quality caviar and sturgeon fillets. He says the Ossetra caviar will be produced through state-of-the-art methods. “Cutting edge recirculating technology and digital process control ensures that the sturgeon enjoy an ideal habitat with carefully controlled pH levels, oxygen concentration and regular feeding. Our sturgeon will produce an extremely high quality of caviar and fillets for the local and international markets for many years to come.” Ossetra caviar comes from the Ossetra variety of sturgeon. It is smaller than its prized cousin Beluga and produces a distinct flavour which is considered richer and more nutty. A versatile delicacy, caviar can be enjoyed as a canapé or as a complement to main dishes, according to Harper. “Care should be taken to serve the caviar when very fresh and slightly cooler than room temperature. When served as a canapé, let the caviar be the centre of attention and try not to overpower its delicate and distinctive taste by combining it with strong-f lavoured foods.” While the locally produced caviar is not yet available, visitors can enjoy other caviar in high-end establishments, such as Al Mahara (Burj Al Arab, 04 3016076), Pierchic (Al Qasr Hotel, 04 3666730) and Amwaj (Shangri-La Hotel Dubai, 04 3438888).

PHOTOLIBRARY

One of the finest delicacies in the world, sturgeon caviar will soon be produced in Abu Dhabi

W h at ’s yo u r f l av o u r ? Only roe from the sturgeon fish can be classed as caviar. Beluga Considered the most prized caviar for its soft, pea-sized eggs and delicate flavour. Its colour

ranges from pale silver-grey to black and is the most expensive variety.

Ossetra Medium-sized eggs, ranging in colour from grey to brown with a distinct flavour. Sevruga Smaller eggs that are grey in colour with a more pronounced flavour.

101

TASTE_LOCAL FLAVOUR_DXB FEB12.indd 101

25/01/2012 12:24

Wok ‘n’ roll From Peking duck to kung pao chicken, Concierge rounds up Dubai’s top Chinese restaurants

Q As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, Dubai is known for its diverse range of cuisines, so if you missed your chance to see in Chinese New Year on January 23, it’s not to late to get the party started. With an abundance of five-star Chinese restaurants, which serve up an array of authentic dishes, there’s plenty of opportunity to belatedly commemorate the Year of the Dragon. Shanghai Chic is Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel’s signature eatery and is famed for its deliciously diverse tasting menu. Alternatively, The Noble House, which is perched on the 17th floor of the iconic Raffles Dubai is one of the most wellknown Chinese restaurants in Dubai and offers panoramic views of the city, as well as a bona fide bill of fare for discerning diners. Other top choices include Zheng He’s at Mina A’ Salam and Hukama at The Address Downtown Dubai (pictured), which both serve contemporary Chinese dishes with a traditional twist. Returning visitors are also in luck because Dubai is still abundant with all the old favourites, including the long-established Shang Palace at ShangriLa Hotel, Dubai and the delightfully vintage Peacock Chinese Restaurant at Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers. Whether it’s chicken chow mein or chicken feet you’re after, we’ve sampled the best of the best in order to give you the definitive guide to Dubai’s Chinese cuisine scene.

102

TASTE_CHINESE RESTAURANTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 102

26/01/2012 14:37

HUKAMA

CHI N E S E / t a s t e

103

TASTE_CHINESE RESTAURANTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 103

26/01/2012 14:37

CHI N E S E / t a s t e

Zheng He’s With a scenic waterfront location within the Mina A’Salam hotel, Zheng He’s is the ideal setting for an exceptional culinary experience. Inside the restaurant, the exquisite dining room is light, airy and decorated with dark wood and artefacts of Chinese eras past. Outside, the terrace takes your breath away with views of the Burj Al Arab. Head chef, Kah Keong Tan, has done an excellent job of fashioning a modern and progressive Chinese menu, which unites a variety of ingredients such as truffles and asparagus with more traditional items like cashew nuts and chilli. If you’re hankering after something from the sea, try the seafood dim sum. Otherwise, set your sights on the juicy beef tenderloin with wild mushrooms. Make sure you save room for dessert because the coconut ice cream and plum crumble is not to be missed. Location: Mina A’Salam Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm Taste: Scallops with black truffle Contact: 04 3666730

Head chef, Kah Keong Tan, has done an excellent job of fashioning a modern and progressive Chinese menu, which unites a variety of ingredients such as truffles and asparagus, with more traditional items like cashew nuts and chilli

The Noble House The Noble House is a rare find and joins ranks with Dubai’s elite Chinese restaurants. Aside from the menu, which includes choice dishes such as wagyu pancake and black truffle dumplings, the best thing about this eatery is the sense of ceremony. The waiters don’t just serve tea; they tip it from behind their backs, pouring a metrelong spout into a minuscule cup. The décor is equally impressive. As you’d expect from a restaurant located on the 17th floor of the super-stylish Raffles Dubai, the interior design has been carefully considered. Dark sultry tones are marvellously blended with bright red highbacked chairs and dramatic stretching tables. The Noble House also enjoys panoramic views of the city’s skyline, so when you’re not transfixed by the ice cream that comes with billowing dry ice tumbling out of the bowl, you’ll be mesmerised by the view. Location: Raffles Dubai Open: Tuesday to Saturday 7 to 11pm Taste: Crab meat dumpling / Contact: 04 3248888

105

TASTE_CHINESE RESTAURANTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 105

25/01/2012 12:24

With magniďŹ cent views overlooking the Dubai Creek the hotel is superbly located near the main commercial and shopping districts, the Gold Souk and Spice Souks. Next to water taxis which allows for a short taxi ride to Dubai Museum, Heritage Village and Old Dubai Souk. Close to Dubai International Airport. 262 spacious city & creek view rooms and suites. Five International restaurants, cafĂŠ and bars.

For reservations, please call 04.2281111 or email us at reservationsdubaiuae@sheraton.com or you may visit us at www.sheraton.com/dubai PO Box 4250, Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Phone: 971.4.228 1111 | Fax: 971.4.221 3468

CHI N E S E / t a s t e

Shanghai Chic From the moment you pass through the doors of Shanghai Chic, the colours, smells and sounds transport you to the stylish eateries of Shanghai city. And if there’s one dish you try while you’re there, let it be the meaty Peking duck, complete with crispy skin. While the entire menu is filled with lovingly prepared Chinese classics, such as the xiao long bao dumplings, the Peking duck is definitely in a league of its own. Located at the Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel in Jebel Ali, Shanghai Chic is undoubtedly the jewel in this hotel’s crown. The tables are dressed with silk runners, chopsticks and fine crockery, and red and gold curtains adorn the walls and double up as room dividers, leaving the option of private dining booths. For that reason the restaurant has become a popular dining spot for intimate group dinners and romantic soirees. Much like the menu and the décor, the service is excellent. Attentive without being intrusive, the waiters walk a very fine line but get the balance right. Understated, yet readily available, they are on hand to offer advice on the bill of fare, but know when to take a back seat. Location: Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Open: Daily 7 to 10.30pm / Taste: Peking duck / Contact: 04 4440000

Hukama If you’re looking for an upbeat and sophisticated environment where Chinese cusine is served to perfection, you can’t go wrong with Hukama. After indulging in pre-dinner drinks at the bar, take your seat by one of the floor-to-ceiling windows, were you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. The menu is no less alluring than the views and we suggest you start with a delicious portion of sun-dried orange beef. For the main course try the duck-filled pancakes. Adventurous diners should try the wokfried ostrich. The dessert menu is all about the delicious warm chocolate and chestnut cake with vanilla ice cream, which reminds you why you decided not to stick to the ‘no desserts’ New Year’s resolution. Location: The Address Downtown Dubai / Open: Daily 6 to 11.30pm Taste: Shanghai bamboo dumplings / Contact: 04 8883444

107

TASTE_CHINESE RESTAURANTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 107

25/01/2012 18:13

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

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

FEbRuaRY 2012 | issuE 90

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A r

dubai duba b i editio ba edition

V I S I T O r

M A G A Z I N E JaNuaRY 2012 | issue 89

deceMber 2011 | issue 88

dubai edition

T H E

dubai edition

l u x u R y

F I V E - S T A R

l u x u r y

M A G A ZMaYI 2011 N |Eissue 81

dubai edition du

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

M A G A Z I N E

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

V I S I T O r

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

F I V E - S T A r

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

V I S I T O R

MaY 2011 | issue 81

T H E

JuLY 2011 | issue 83

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

JuLY 2011 | issue 83

JaNuaRY aNuaRY 2012 | issue 89

With compliments of

Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone

DXB MAIN COVER MAY11.indd 1

21/04/2011 16:10

CHI N E S E / t a s t e

Shang Palace For Cantonese cuisine that leaves you gasping for more, visit Shang Palace at the Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai. Attractively decorated in oriental colours of red and gold, the décor is evocative of People’s Square Shanghai and as soon as you walk through the doors, you feel as though you’ve been catapulted to another continent. If the New Year has left you feeling festive, opt for the Chinese New Year reunion dinner. It includes a variety of dishes such as duck, cod, scallops and bowls of rice. The test of any Chinese restaurant is the Beijing duck and we’re pleased to report that Shang Palace gets 10 out of 10. Perfectly cooked and served with stir-fried vegetables and pancakes, it bursts with flavour. While duck and pork are the traditional foods for this season, it’s also customary to include vegetable dishes. The mixed mushroom with baby Savoy cabbage is a fantastic vegetarian option. Location: Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai Open: Daily 7 to 11pm Taste: Stir-fried hammour fillet Contact: 04 3438888

The test of any Chinese restaurant is the Beijing duck and we’re pleased to report that Shang Palace gets 10 out of 10. Perfectly cooked and served with stir-fried vegetables and pancakes, it bursts with flavour

The Peacock Chinese Restaurant Overlooking the lobby of the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers, this cosy outlet is unassuming, unpretentious and undeniably good. With the beach and Arabian Gulf just a stone’s throw away, the eatery is ideal as a relaxed family lunch spot. It also offers an intimate backdrop for couples who are looking to dine away the evening with a bit of relaxing privacy. Something of a hidden gem, the restaurant serves superb traditional cuisine. Vegetarian spring rolls, spicy fried calamari and deep-fried prawns on toast are amongst the tempting hot starters while deep-fried shredded beef with spring onions and ginger is a popular main course. The menu is extensive with sections dedicated to lobster, prawn, fish, chicken, beef, duck and pork dishes The desserts are also delicious. Cleanse the palate with chilled mango pudding and coconut sauce, or green tea ice cream and tropical melon. Location: Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Open: Daily 6 to 11.30pm Taste: Chilli shreaded beef Contact: 04 3995533

109

TASTE_CHINESE RESTAURANTS_DXB_FEB12.indd 109

25/01/2012 18:14

{

MY DUBAI Fashion designer Rami Al Ali shares his pearls of wisdom on how to have a stylish Dubai stay

1 Atlantis The Palm, Dubai 2 Dubai World Cup

I’m originally from Syria and arrived in Dubai 15 years ago. I came almost straight from university with a view to furthering my fashion career. It paid off because in 2001, after a lot of hard work, I launched my own couture label. I guess that was the first time I looked on Dubai as home. Starting a business means commitment to a place and I now see this city as my permanent place of residence. Over the years Dubai has had so many defining moments. The opening of Atlantis The Palm, Dubai was one of them. It was such a huge occasion with so many A-list celebrities jetting onto these shores. That day I felt very proud to be a Dubai resident. Socialising is a big part of the Dubai culture and I really enjoy the laid-back vibe of the Asian lounge bars, such as Zuma at Dubai International Financial Centre and Okku at The Monarch Dubai. I also enjoy a good steak and you can’t beat a meal at Rivington Grill at Souk Al Bahar. Teatro at Towers Rotana on Sheikh Zayed Road is also a fabulous place to dine. Both the food and service are excellent.

}

When it comes to events on the Dubai calendar, my favourite occasion of the year is the Dubai World Cup, which takes place on March 31. This is the one occasion when everyone makes a huge effort to glam up. Most people are more focused on the fashion than they are on the horses. In fact, I bet most guests at the event couldn’t even tell you who won the race, but they could describe what the Fashion on the Field winner wore or who they thought the best dressed person was. On the subject of fashion, my favourite mall for convenience is Mall of the Emirates. Everything is under one roof and I find it easy to navigate. My guilty pleasure is to root for inspirational pieces. I tend to head to the smaller boutique stores where you can find unique pieces that don’t appear anywhere else. I think Dubai holds its own as a fashion destination. With the city being such an international hub, it makes sense that so many huge brands have branches here. Many designer talents are also emerging from the region, so watch this space!

Dubai has had so many defining moments. The opening of Atlantis The Palm, Dubai was one of them

Rami’s boutique is located in Jumeira. For details visit

www.ramialali.com

110

MY DUBAI_DXB_FEB12.indd 110

26/01/2012 17:02

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

111

MY DUBAI_DXB_FEB12.indd 111

25/01/2012 12:26

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.

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am

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: Sat to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

IBN BATTUTA MALL

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.

04 3685140

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Nakheel Harbour & Tower Map reference: A1

04 3520222

Inspired by the Arab traveller Ibn Battuta, the mall is home to designer shops, Woolworths and a multi-screen cinema complex.

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

BURJUMAN

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

04 4099000

Timings: Daily10am to midnight Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

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

04 3622222

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

GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

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

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

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. Refrain from public displays of affection. 112

LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB FEB12.indd 112

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

04 3444161

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

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

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

OASIS CENTRE

04 5154000

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

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

04 3461462

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

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

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

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

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

04 3494444

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

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

04 3418020

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 11pm. Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2 6

25/01/2012 12:26

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: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and 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, homefurnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.

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

04 2954486

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

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

www.dragonmart.ae

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 Marks & Spencer. There is also a Community Arts Market

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

04 4234666

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3 7

LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB FEB12.indd 113

LABEL STABLE

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

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

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

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

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

04 3627011

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

800 33232

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

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

113

25/01/2012 12:27

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.

04 3411287

GALLERY 76

04 3470209

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

Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to 7pm; Thu, 9am to 4pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am

GALLERY etemad

ART SAWA

04 3408660

A showcase of regional contemporary art with a library and video lounge for artists and art enthusiasts to interact. Art Sawa recently opened a second gallery space in the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC).

04 3468649

Exhibits striking artworks that feature in museums and international collections.

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

04 3469305

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

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

art select

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

to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

050 6453014

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am

to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 ARTSPACE

04 3230820

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 5.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 AYYAM GALLERY

04 4392395

lawrie shabibi

04 3469902

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 MAJLIS GALLERY

04 3536233

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9.30am

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

to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm.

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

Closed Fri

Map reference: C2 BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

04 4257888

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm. Closed Fri Map reference: A1 CARBON 12

One of Dubai’s newest art galleries, Pro- Art sells some of the most carefully curated contemporary art in the global market.

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

Located in Al Quoz, this established gallery showcases international mixed media and is a big favourite with Dubai's budding art scene. to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

04 3450900

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm; Sat noon to 6pm. Fri by appointment only Map reference: D1 04 3444398 1X1 Art Gallery

pro- art gallery

marsam mattar

04 3988331

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

04 3477883

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: B2 OPERA GALLERY

satellite

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

showcase GALLERY

04 3488797

Located on Jumeirah Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, Showcase specialises in contemporary and traditional art and photography and showcases work from local and international artists.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C1 2

the Art source

04 2856972

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

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

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

the mojo gallery

04 3477388

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

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

Map reference: C2 the pavilion downtown dubai

04 4477025

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

Timings: Daily 9am to midnight Map reference: D2 THE THIRD LINE

04 3411367

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

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

Map reference: C2 TOTAL ARTS

04 3230909

04 3475050

Timings: Sat to Thu, 11.30am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Sat 12 to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

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

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

050 4644392

With regular exhibitions this gallery features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.

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

114

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB FEB12.indd 114

25/01/2012 12:27

DIS C O VER/THE GUIDE

TRAFFIC

AL MANSOUR DHOW

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

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

04 3470209

Timings: Sat to Thu10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 XVA GALLERY

04 3585117

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 11am

to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

CITY TOURS

04 2057033

THE BIG BUS COMPANY

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,Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and, for a taste of local culture, Dubai Creek.

04 3407709

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

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)

CULTURE

Timings: From 7am into the night Guide price: From AED750 per hour

Local flavour 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.

CREEK CRUISES

04 3939860

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

Air ALPHA TOURS

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 4.45pm Guide price: City tour AED1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hourlong tours AED12,240 for up to five people FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4440007

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

Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 3pm Guide price: Prices start from AED22,000 (30 minutes), for up to six people SEAWINGS

04 8070708

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. The views of Palm Jumeirah

Timings: Flights depart from

9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 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: AED160 Map reference: E2

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

Timings: 8pm to 10pm Guide price: From AED175

Mall of the Emirates 04 3414777

CREEKSIDE LEISURE

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

04 3368406 Hire a dhow with dinner

and transfers, butler service and unlimited beverages.

Map reference: B2

Timings: Daily boarding 8pm Guide price: AED200

04 3511117

WONDERBUS

04 3595656

This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up Dubai Creek for an hour-long cruise.

Guide price: AED140

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 AL FAROOQ OMAR BIN AL KHATTAB MOSQUE

04 3944448

Tours run three times a week. Timings: Sat, Mon, and Wed for one hour from 10.30am

Guide price: AED10 Map reference: C1

Entry: Cultural breakfasts are held every Monday and Wednesday at 10am and cost AED60 per person. Lunches are held every Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm and cost AED70. Reservations are required for both. Contact: 04 3536666

04 3666546

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED175 for an evening dhow cruise

Location: Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, close to Dubai Museum

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

dinner cruise

Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charters are available.

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

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 2253312

Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 2.30pm 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

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

A museum where Emiratis prepare local food and perform dances to Arabic music.

Timings: Sat to Thu 7am to 10pm, Fri 4 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: Sun to Thu 8am to

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

MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

04 3946343

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

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

04 3937139

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 8.30pm, Friday 3.30 to 9.30pm Guide price: AED2 adults, AED1 children (under eight years free) Map reference: E1

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

116

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB FEB12.indd 116

25/01/2012 12:28

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

Attractions

FIRST YACHT

04 3754148

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

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED200 OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 2628889

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

04 2959477

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED2,600 per boat ART MARINE

04 4068825

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

Timings: From 6am Guide price: From

AED750 per hour

BATEAUX DUBAI

04 3994994

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

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573048

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

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

24 hours for up to 7 people THE YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

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

Timings: From 8.45am onwards Guide Price: Adults from

AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477 Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along

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

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

Timings: Daily boarding at

per adult and AED90 per child

8pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11.30pm Guide Price: AED330 CLUB MINA

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275

VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

04 3572200

04 3993333

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

Timings: From 7am Guide Price:From AED2,500

Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide Price: AED300 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises

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

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3511117

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

Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED175

Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

04 2340812

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available. LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

04 3357676

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

04 6028888

Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping. OASIS PALM TOURISM Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner. OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6532504

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

04 2826867

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

04 2999339

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

TRAVCO

04 3366643

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

ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

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

Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED765

per person. City tour AED9,000 for five people (45 minutes)

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

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

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

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: From 2:30pm Guide Price: Adults AED250, children AED210

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.

118

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB12.indd 118

Flying

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: AED275

1. Cruising 2. The Dinner Cruise from First Yacht 3. View from the Burj Khalifa observation deck 4. Skydiving 5. Shooting 6. Jam Jar 7. Camel riding in the desert

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

ARABIAN ADVENTURES

04 3034888

04 2833335

DREAMDAYS

800 2080

04 2628889

04 2995155

5 6

Timings: From 8.30am to 5.30pm Guide price: AED1,000 for first-time flyers trial flight, plus AED100 for airport pass FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4448866

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details 7

25/01/2012 12:31

Romantic Dinner Cruise

www.f1yacht.com

Contact: +971 56 789 7415 +971 50 655 0313

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY

09 2224747

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

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

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

Timings: From 9am Guide price: Call for details

04 3244755

04 3254975/050 1002477

Take a 15-minute tour above Dubai and see all the iconic sights.

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED750 BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per

adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

04 4361400/04 4361422

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

ULTIMATE CHARTER

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

DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

Timings: Thu to Sat 10am to 10pm, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED160 with go-karting

04 8832999

Shooting (see Sports)

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

lessons AED960

04 2854949

Paintballing

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 5383224/050 2032288

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

04 2316292

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

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

050 1533222

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

Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

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

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

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

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

04 3244555

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

Timings: Daily 6.30pm, 7.30pm, 8.30pm and 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

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.

FAMILY FUN

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child MAGIC PLANET

800 LEISURE (5347873)

A fun and interactive family-focused 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 AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free

Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to 7 year olds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.

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

Check out these top action-packed activities and experience Dubai at its best…

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

04 4297949

800 28843867

ACTION ADVENTURE

800 LEISURE (5347873)

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

Timings: From 2pm to

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

LITTLE EXPLORERS

02 4968001/ 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 11am to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA

04 4485222

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to 10pm,Thu 9am to midnight, 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 9pm. 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: Daily 10am to 1am Guide price: Entry is free of charge but AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card. Power Pass AED140, Platinum Pass AED220 THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

800 382246255

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

Timings: Daily from 1 to 1.30pm and 7 to 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND

04 3243222

Creekside family entertainment village, which includes Splashland waterpark and paintballing is a great day out for the entire family.

Timings: Daily Splashland

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

Arts & Crafts 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 at CaféCeramic.

Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm for ceramics, 9am to midnight for dining Guide price: No base charge, ceramic prices vary from AED35 to AED150

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.

120

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB12.indd 120

25/01/2012 12:32

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

JAM JAR

04 3417303

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

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

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.

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.

Birdwatching NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 3380201

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

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED180 for adults; AED150 children

04 4485200

OUTSIDE DUBAI

SPLASHLAND

04 3241222

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED95 adults; AED85 children

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

WILD WADI

04 3484444

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.

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3369773

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED205 adults; AED165 children under 1.1 metres, children under two go free

Timings: Shows Mon to

Thu 11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 3 to 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children

Golf

THE LOST CHAMBERS

04 4260000

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

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010111

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

adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

This championship course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II.

CHILDREN’S CITY

Waterparks

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

An interactive science and cultural centre.

AQUA PLAY

Edutainment 04 3340808

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 8pm, Fri 3 to 9pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket ENCOUNTER ZONE

04 3247747

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

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

Ice skating (see Sports)

Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY

04 4261030

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

Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

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

04 4260000

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED200 for adults,AED165 for children under 1.2 metres DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

Perferct for families, 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: AED135 adults; AED85 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 Thu 10am to 6pm. Fri and Sat 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m AED150. Below 1.2m AED100

122

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB12.indd 122

(7,303 yards, par-72)

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.

ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

04 3663000

(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/ 04 3801234 (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)

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

The club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament.

Green fees: Majlis Course

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

25/01/2012 12:32

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED160 for 9 holes and AED240 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED195 for 9 holes and AED320 for 18 holes. Twilight rate is AED125 from approximately 5.10pm Jumeirah Golf Estates

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: AED40

for one hour THE WALL

04 3065061

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

Fire Course:

Timings: Sat to Fri 2 to 10pm

(6,473 yards, par-72) (6,507 yards, par-72) One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED495 and Fri and Sat AED795 for 18 holes THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

04 3905600

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

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB

04 4251010

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

WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

Earth Course:

04 3759999

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

Climbing

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

Green fees: Daily AED795 for 18 holes

and Sun to Wed 3 to 11pm Guide price: AED60 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor

Diving

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:7am to 6pm Guide price: Sun to Thu

AED30 for 30 minutes and Fri AED50 for 30 minutes JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

The 5,000-square-metre soft sand archery range can safely accommodate up to 12 people at the same time.

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED70 for 30

minutes with unlimited shots

trip with up to six people costs from AED700

no boundaries

050 2514988

Book in for seafishing in southern Oman and stay the night in a lodge.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED4,400 a day for up to four people. AED440 to stay in a lodge

SUMMERTIME MARINE

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

Guide price: Two-day PADI

Catch your own lunch on an unforgettable deep-sea fishing trip.

course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,850. Pleasure dives from AED400

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

04 2950516

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED875 04 4068825

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

04 2054646

HATTA FORT HOTEL

Timings: Call for details Guide price: An hour-long

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

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

Archery

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

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

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

04 3993333

04 2573084

ART MARINE

Sports

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing on board the Sneak Away.

Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price:AED2,000

for four hours. Longer trips are available as required first yacht

04 3754148/050 6550313 Up to seven people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: 6am onwards Guide price:AED3,400 for four hours. JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA

04 8836000

Take a group fishing trip and make the catch of the day.

Timings: Mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: AED1,750 for four hours on the boat.

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3464194

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1,400 for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee

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 tournament takes place in December 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. 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. In 2011, the England team proved popular winners of the main event, beating France by 29 points to 12 in the final.

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB12.indd 124

25/01/2012 12:33

M D F

You

Roses, box of chocolates and moonlight? Taken care of.

M D F

How about a 4-course meal and a glass of bubbly? Done.

Pullman Mall of the Emirates Dubai

Need more? Enjoy soft music and romantic ambience at the rooftop pool lounge overlooking the city.

Call: 04 377 2353 Email: h7337-fb1@accor.com Visit: www.pullman-dubai.com Like: facebook.com/pullmandubaimoe Follow: twitter.com/pullmandubaimoe

This February 14, get mad for each other and rediscover your flame over a candle-lit dinner at AED 580 for 2.

CHECK IN. CHILL OUT.

Share with us the most romantic thing you have done during Valentines and win a Mad for You Visit facebook.com/pullmandubaimoe for more details.

T HE GUI D E / e xpe r ie nce

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

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

02 6599393 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: AED20 for two

Timings: See website

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

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

DUBAI ICE RINK

YAS Racing School

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

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.

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

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

Timings: See website

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

GALLERIA ICE RINK

04 2096000

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

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

Timings: Sun and Tue

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

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

Karting

Polo

DUBAI AUTODROME

04 3678744

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110 050 5592131

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

30 minutes

Mini Golf 04 8523221

04 2573084

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 AED220 for 25 shots; indoor AED140 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 800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Watersports

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

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

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

02 5629050

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

04 3402408

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for

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.

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

DESERT RANGERS

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

04 3989146

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

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

SKI DUBAI

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

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

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

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

04 3941669

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

04 3618111

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB FEB12.indd 127

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

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

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

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

Guide price:

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

127

25/01/2012 12:33

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

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 Have an all-Italian experience at Armani/Peck. Every Friday diners can enjoy Friday Vita, an Italian-inspired brunch. Prices start at AED240 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 4260000

The Palm Jumeirah This landmark property, which is home to Nobu Matsuhisa's signature restaurant, is a genuine destination resort with a range of five-star outlets 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

For a delicious selection of Thai food book a table at Pai Tai. Prices start at AED80 a dish

This charming desert retreat offers good food most notably at Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant. Visitors should also try the delicious pizza at renowned Italian restaurant, Pizzeria Le Dune and the signature cocktails at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge

Al 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

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 3668888

Umm Suqeim

04 3017777

Head to Skyview Bar for superb afternoon tea and spectacular views over Dubai. Prices start at AED425 per person 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 and a cosy Italia Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina – Italian Pine Grill – International The Bar – Casual bar

Crowne Plaza Dubai

04 3311111

Sheikh Zayed Road In honour of Valentine's Day, head to Oscar's Vine Society on February 14 and enjoy an oyster platter for AED119 per person as well as a wide selection of new and old world wines 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

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

04 2625555

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

Deira

Bring your family for a fun day out at Spice Island. Every Friday from 12 to 4pm enjoy a delicious unlimited buffet and entertainment for kids. Prices start at AED159 per person (excluding alcohol), AED209 with house beverages and AED279 with premium tipples. AED69 for children aged between 10 and 12 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 all the sizzling flavours of South America 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

128

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB12.indd 128

25/01/2012 18:16

T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

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

Drinking in Dubai / Fast facts

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa

04 3995000

Dubai Marina 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 8099333 Hatta

Enjoy movies under the stars with your loved ones at Hatta Fort Hotel every Thursday and Friday. Sip on choice tipples, relax and float in the outdoor temperaturecontrolled pool, while watching your favourite films Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Desert Palm Dubai

04 3238888 Desert

An out-of-town location with a residential community is a winning combination. Rare Restaurant is an exemplary haven for aficionados of steak, while The Jewel has a delectable afternoon tea menu “Epicure” The Gourmet Market – International Rare Restaurant – Steakhouse The Jewel – Afternoon Tea

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

Multi-faceted dining and entertainment complex located in the heart of Jumeira. 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 at The Observatory’s happy hour, which runs from 6 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday, and 6 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday, or head to A.z.u.r for a tasty selection of Mediterranean dishes 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 Benjarong, one of the best Thai restaurants in the city Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

09 2449888

Al Aqah Beach Out-of-town option that is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents. Fujairah is a neighbouring emirate on the east coast

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 by Nick and Scott – European

Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – Mediterannean

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

Grand Hyatt Dubai Oud Metha

Catch the latest sports tournament at Studio One and enjoy bottled beer for AED25

Peppercrab is the only Singaporean-inspired restaurant in the city. Order the biggest crab you can find – your tastebuds will be rewarded

Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE – Italian Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin Studio One – Bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

04 3171234

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

Every Monday enjoy Italian Night at Dante. Prices start at AED169 per person including a glass of bubbly and AED235 with free-flowing Champagne. Doors open at 7pm Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian

04 3991111

Dubai Marina

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

04 3234333

Sheikh Zayed Road For indulgent Mexican cuisine, visit The Gem Garden every Tuesday night for all-you-caneat Mexican. Doors open at 7pm and the dinner is priced at 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

hyatt regency dubai & galleria

04 2091234 Deira

04 3998888

Head to The Kitchen every Thursday from 12.30 to 3pm for fragrant Indian cuisine. For AED135 per person enjoy an extensive buffet and soft drinks

Experience truffles like never before at Sloane's Funghi Brunch, every Friday from 1 to 4pm. AED220 per person

Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Bar Focaccia – Italian Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Kitchen – International

Grosvenor House, Dubai Dubai Marina

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

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. Cubo Pasta – Italian

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

04 4440000

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

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

04 7011111

Dubai Festival City Enjoy the Culinary Lunch at Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire every Friday from 12 to 2pm. The four-course menu is priced at AED250, plus an extra AED140 for wine. Alternatively, try 'The Tomahawk Challenge' at Terra Firma Steakhouse. If, within 60 minutes, you can devour a 2kg Tomahawk ribeye steak, together with 300g of thick-cut chunky chips and 300g of béarnaise sauce, you dine for free. If not, the price is AED690 per person. Are you up to the challenge? Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steak

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Jebel Ali

DIFC

04 8145555

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

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

04 3480000 Jumeirah

For alfresco fun, you can't beat 360˚. Set at the end of its very own pier, the heli-pad shaped outdoor space boasts panoramic views of Dubai’s coastline and vivid sunsets over the Arabian Ocean. For indoor dining, enjoy a five-course Arabic menu at Al Khayal daily from 7pm to midnight. Prices start at AED340 per person. Alternatively, visit Beachcombers for authentic Far Eastern fare or La Parrilla for a delicious Argentinean menu 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

04 3300000

Enjoy an à la carte Friday brunch at Al Nafoorah from 12 to 4pm. Savour the finest Lebanese cuisine served with characteristic flair. Prices start at AED150 per person 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

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

04 4530000

The Palm Jumeirah Go Continental at the French Brasserie brunch at Imperium. Every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm you can enjoy French favourites and delicacies. Prices start at AED275 per person 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 enjoy selected beverages for as little as AED22 at Brauhaus' happy hour Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

129

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB12.indd 129

25/01/2012 18:16

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

Le MÉridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Fujairah

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

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

04 3995555

Dubai Marina 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

Media One Hotel

04 4271000

Dubai Media City

Al Riqa Restaurant – International Dublin Arms – Irish Summer Place – Chinese

Metropolitan Hotel Dubai

04 2051035

Sheikh Zayed Road

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

04 3993333

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Summer Place delivers a selection of authentic dishes

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

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

Deira

The Red Lion features a beer garden with regular barbecues

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

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

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 2959171

09 2449000 Fujairah

Metropolitan Hotel Deira

Book a table at The MED this Valentine's Day and enjoy the Aphrodite Celebration. From 7 to 10.30pm a delectable buffet will be on offer. Prices start at AED159 per person without alcohol and AED249 with house beverages

Metropolitan Palace Hotel

04 2270000 Deira

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

04 3320000

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

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

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is a strategically located business hotel in the heart of the city Atrium Cafe – International La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

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

Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

Savour great Italian food every Tuesday at The Fountain from 7 to 10.30pm from AED85 per person

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Novotel World Trade Centre

Millennium plaza Hotel dubai

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

The Talk – International West Beach Bistro – Gastro bar

Oasis Beach Tower

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000

Tuck into a quintessentially English Sunday roast at The Talk. Freshly carved joints, live grill stations and classic Brit desserts such as apple crumble and rhubarb and custard are all part of the fun. Running from 6.30 to 11pm, prices start at AED165 per person. For a taste of Mexico drop by on Thursday nights and sample the finest Mexican cuisine, from sizzling seafood, to spicy grills and wholesome regional dishes, washed down with Sol – Mexico’s favourite beer

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

Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine – Arabic Pulse – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International

Café M – Coffee shop The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

04 4498888

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

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence

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

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.

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB12.indd 130

25/01/2012 12:39

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

SMOKE SIGNALS

Oud Metha

Garhoud

Wine and dine your other half at Fire & Ice on Valentine's Day. A tantalising four-course menu, complemented by superb wine is priced at AED1,000 per couple

For the ultimate romantic experience book a table at Traiteur on February 14. Chef Franck Detrait will be serving up a sumptuous five-course Valentine's dinner. Prices start at AED680 per person (excluding alcohol)

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

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

QAMARDEEN HOTEL

04 4286888

Downtown Dubai

Deira

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 Tamanya Terrace is the place to head on Saturday nights as ladies can enjoy five cocktails, blended by an award-winning mixologist, for only AED125 per person. Doors open at 6pm Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports Bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail Bar

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.

04 4484848

Dubai Marina Seafood lovers should book a table at AOC every Thursday from 7 to 10pm. The buffet is priced at AED195 per person including soft drinks and AED295 including bubbly

04 2232222 Deira

04 3520900

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

At Dae Jang Kum, expect meticulously prepared rice and kimchi (spicy vegetable pickle)

Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic Verdi – Italian

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.

SOFITEL DUBAI JUMEIRAH BEACH

TAJ PALACE HOTEL

ROYAL ASCOT HOTEL

04 2227171

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

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK

Visit The Peacock for reliable Chinese cuisine and impeccable service. Meanwhile, Ciao Ristorante serves traditional Italian dishes and Palm Garden dishes up international cuisine

ROSE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

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

Esca Restaurant – International

04 3995533

AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

04 3230111

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

04 4502000

Dubai Marina

This modern 51-storey glass tower, located near the Dubai World Trade Centre, offers excellent Japanese cuisine at Icho

04 3248888

04 6021234

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DOWNTOWN

Sheikh Zayed Road

RAFFLES DUBAI

PARK HYATT DUBAI

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

04 3080000

Al Muhallab – Arabic seafood Celsius – All-day dining Icho – Japanese Indothai – Asian

101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – European Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

Tuck into authentic Japanese cuisine at Sumibiya or try traditional English food at The Pub. Steak aficionados can enjoy Palm Grill, while seafood enthusiasts have Fish Market to look forward to. Whatever your preference, with 11 dining spots you'll be spoilt for choice at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

RADISSON ROYAL HOTEL DUBAI

Chill – Rooftop bar Dae Jang Kum – Korean Planet Bollywood – Indian Wellington’s – Lounge bar

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road For weekend fun head to Dunes Café for Friday Brunchini. Enjoy a wide selection of cocktails and an extensive buffet from 11.30am to 4pm. Prices start at AED330 per person Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – Italian Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

SHERATON DEIRA HOTEL, DUBAI

04 2688888 Deira

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

THE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN DUBAI

04 4368888

staisycover

d rience expe p o h s &taste

Downtown Dubai From the breathtaking views of Burj Khalifa to the intimate indoor seating Fazaris is the perfect place to spend Valentine's Day. From 6.30 to 11pm, AED425 buys you a five-course mal including soft drinks Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea

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.

Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.

CONCIERGE WEB AD-STRIP 2010.indd 1 LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB12.indd 131

21/12/2011 09:51 25/01/2012 12:39

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Chic, yet intimate Ember Grill and Lounge is a stylish destination of choice for Valentine's Day. Savour a succulent four-course authentic grill menu, which includes soft beverages, for only AED750 per couple Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

The Address Dubai Marina

04 4238888

Dubai Marina On February 14 from 6.30 to 11pm, treat your other half to a luxurious four-course dining experience at Mazina. Priced at AED500 per couple this is a romantic experience you won't forget Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Afternoon tea Mazina – International Shades – Al Fresco dining

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.

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills

DIFC

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

Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Australian Night. AED240 buys you a three-course menu including a starter, barbeque, desserts and house beverages Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar

16 17

04 3325555

Sheikh Zayed Road Indulge in unlimited sushi and sake every Wednesday at Spectrum on One from 7 to 9pm. Prices start at AED150 per person

Sheikh Zayed Road

Meydan

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

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience

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

04 3813333

Farriers – International Prime – Steakhouse Shiba – Asian

Traders Hotel Dubai

04 2659888 Deira

The monarch dubai

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

04 5018888

Downtown Dubai Visit Diademas Cigar Lounge for cheese and two glasses of wine for AED90, from 6 to 8pm daily Amika – Lounge/nighclub Arcadia – Afternoon tea Diademas Cigar Lounge – Cigar lounge Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar

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

Downtown Dubai

04 3329260

The Fairmont Dubai

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

villa rotana

The Mango Tree

Sheikh Zayed Road

Souk Al Bahar

04 3216111

Cit y dining

Enjoy cocktails at superstylish bar FAI before a spot of tasty Thai food at Thiptara

Authentic Italian cuisine served in a familyfriendly environment

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

Moka Café – All-day dining

04 4287888

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet

The Palace – The Old Town

04 4341320

A chic lounge that includes a contemporary Italian restaurant, sushi bar and Champagne bar

For a truly romantic experience, head to Hunters on February 14. An exquisite nine-course menu with Champagne pairings is priced at AED790 per person and AED490 with soft drinks

04 3438000

carluccio's

Dubai Marina

Towers Rotana Dubai

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

CAVALLI CLUB

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

The Meydan

04 3666730

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

04 3994141

The Fairmont Dubai

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

BarZar

04 3722222

For a quintessentially English experience stop by Nineteen for afternoon tea. A selection of delicious teas are served with an assortment of cakes, sandwiches and pastries. Tea is served from Sunday to Thursday, 1 to 5.30pm and prices start at AED60 per person. On Saturdays, book in for the famous Saturday roast. With an array of tasty dishes including roast beef, lamb and chicken, you won't be left wanting. The Saturday roast is priced at AED225 per person (including alcohol) Nineteen – European The Academy – International

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

04 4267313

Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine served in a dark, moody setting, while overlooking 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

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

West 14th

04 4477601

The Palm Jumeirah

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

04 3994000

Dubai Marina

AQUARA

04 3627900

Dubai Marina Yacht Club

Head to Amaseena on February 14 and enjoy your own private cabana on the Ritz-Carlton Beach. A delicious four-course menu, a bouquet of flowers for ladies and your choice of soft drinks and bubbly are all part of the package. Prices start at AED3,000 per couple

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

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

04 8883444 Burj Khalifa

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

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

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB FEB12.indd 132

25/01/2012 12:39

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 78

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 51

JUMEIRAH BEACH 74 39 22 8

65 5 64

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

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

UMM SUQEIM

69 41

IBN BATTUTA

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

A1 D1 B2 A1

AL SUFOUH ROAD

21 DUBAI MARINA MALL

5 38 78 50

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