Concierge Dubai Magazine, January 2012 by npimedia fz llc

JANUARY 2012 | issue 89

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 JANUARY 2012 | issue 89

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

Licensed by international Media Production Zone

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the cosmogr aph d ay tona

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

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www.longines.com

The Longines Master Collection

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www.braschidubai.com | Souk Madinat Jumeirah � Tel: +971 4 4548778 Deira � Tel: +971 4 2270544

Меха из Италии

JANUARY 2012 / Issue 89 / Dubai Edition

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

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

WELCOME TO concierge Concierge is the definitive five-star visitor magazine, exclusively available in-room at the UAE’s finest hotels. This Dubai edition is available at 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。

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In focus Dubai is a magnet for luxury fashion brands, ranking higher than traditional couture centres such as Paris, London and New York. Second only to Hong Kong, Dubai is therefore the perfect place to indulge your passion for fashion in some of the world’s greatest shopping malls. And January is the perfect time for visitors to get a little extra in their luggage thanks to the annual Dubai Shopping Festival. With millions of dirhams of luxurious prizes on offer, as well as generous discounts, you’ll be hard pressed to leave with just magical memories of the city. Image: Andoni&Aranxa @ Lickerishltd Rabat SPAIN www.rabat.es She wears: Dress Diane Von Furstenberg, jewellery by Rabat

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contents JANUARY 2012 / Issue 89

14/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

20/SNAPSHOT Mercury rising

23/SHOP 24/BUYING TIME All you need to know about the Dubai Shopping Festival

30/THE IMMACULATE COLLECTION Men’s watches for every occasion

36/GRAND DESIGNS Ultra-luxury mobile phones

43/RISE AND SHINE Sun protection that will keep you sun-safe and sun-kissed

45/DISCOVER 46/CHANGING TIDES The history of Dubai Creek

48/TOURIST TRAIL All that’s on offer at Dubai International Financial Centre

50/CULTURAL CONNECTION

We take a trip to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Culture Understanding

56/HIGH DUBAI Celebrating two years since the grand opening of Burj Khalifa

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contents JANUARY 2012 / Issue 89

63/EXPERIENCE 64/SAIL AWAY

The luxury world of yachting awaits you on Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aquamarine waters

70/FERRARI WORLD

Prepare for some adrenaline-charged action

79/TASTE 80/BARS IN THE STARS Bars with serious altitude

89/THE DAILY GRIND The history of coffee

90/NEW IN TOWN All the hottest new venues to hit Dubai

Q 99/the Guide Comprehensive listings to help plan the perfect stay

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essentials

Brought to you in association with

JANUARY

Discover Dubai Creek

The Dubai Creek is a cultural melting pot and your chance to see a more traditional side of the city. From the dhows, laden with cargo, to the smaller abras (water taxis) that ferry passengers to-and-fro, the Creek is the heart of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;old Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and the bustling waters are what keep it beating.

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EVENTS IN BRIEF Cirque Du Soir Throughout January On Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, enjoy a circus experience at The Fairmont Dubai with Cirque du Soir. Guests will be wowed by live performances from stilt walkers, magicians, burlesque dancers and sword swallowers. For reservations call 04 3324900.

D u b a i S h o p p i n g F e s t i va l January 5 to February 5 Shopaholics and fashionistas will be in their element at this annual month-long shopping extravaganza. Taking place at retail outlets throughout Dubai, you can expect discounts and daily raffles. For details www.dubaishoppingfestival.com or turn to page 24.

rocking all over the world

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

January 11 to 14 After an extremely successful run at The First Group Theatre in May, the Barnyard Theatre Production Company is back with the ever-popular ‘Rocking All Over The World’. Head to the Madinat Jumeirah or check out www.madinattheatre.com for more information.

Pa k i s ta n v s E n g l a n d C r i c k e t – T e s t M at c h e s

January 17 to February 7 Enjoy international cricket in the UAE as Pakistan battle it out against England in the UAE 2012 international bilateral series. The series consists of three Test Matches, four One-Day Internationals and three T20 matches. For more information visit www.icc-cricket.yahoo.net

TASTE Brunch

If your stay in Dubai takes in a Friday (the first day of the UAE weekend) use this opportunity to experience a Dubai brunch. Unlike the calm culinary experience it is elsewhere around the globe, brunch in Dubai is a whole new occurrence. With buffet tables laden with gourmet food and an unending supply of free-flowing drinks, you won’t be left wanting. Our favourite spots include Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah and Spectrum on One at The Fairmont Dubai. Turn to page 116 for a list of hotels, many of which serve Friday brunches.

S ta n d a r d C h a r t e r e d D u b a i M a r at h o n 2 012

January 27 This yearly running race begins in Downtown Dubai and stretches over 42km. US$250,000 (AED918,000) in prize money is awarded to the fastest male and female runners and a new world record lands a runner US$1 million dollars (AED3.67 million). For more information visit www.dubaimarathon.org

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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 f lavours. Location: Served at most hotels and at many cafés. Price: Approximately AED60.

SHOP

Montblanc As a spine-chilling tribute to the master of horror and suspense, Montblanc has released the Montblanc Alfred Hitchcock Limited Edition 3000 pen. The stylish writing instrument features 53 hatch marks symbolising every movie that Hitchcock directed during his impressive career. Location: Montblanc at The Dubai Mall. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 04 4340300.

SHOP

Old-style souks Dubai is renowned for its atmospheric souks in the old quarter of the city, especially the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk. But if you’re looking for a more refined retail experience in airconditioned comfort, Souk Madinat Jumeirah (pictured), Souk Al Bahar and Khan Murjan are three recently built bazaars, constructed to resemble traditional Arabic marketplaces. The perfect places to pick up Arabic lanterns, dates and Persian carpets, this is where you go for last-minute souvenir shopping. Location: Umm Suqeim, Downtown Dubai and Oud Metha respectively. Turn to page 101 for more information.

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EXPERIENCE Global Village

Global Village, one of the Middle East’s key entertainment and shopping venues, has returned for the 15th year bigger than ever. Considered the largest outdoor family entertainment attraction, the four-month-long event is filled to the brim with exciting celebrations, shows, local and international restaurants and great buys from across the globe. For the best in free entertainment, the Pavilion theatres offer three shows daily until midnight, including the Argentinean Troupe and the African folk show. Don’t miss this year’s spectacular new addition, the Dancing Fountain, with four shows running daily from 6:30 to 10:30pm. Global Village is located on Emirates Road and opens daily from 4pm. For more information please call 04 362 4114 or visit www.globalvillage.ae

EXPERIENCE A day of spa pampering

If globetrotting has left you washed out and weary, a few days in Dubai will reinvigorate you. With an array of five-star spas, it doesn’t matter whether you’re keen on massages, facials, scrubs or wraps because there’s a treatment to suit every type of traveller. Our top recommendations include Mandara Spa at The Monarch Dubai (pictured) and Assawan Spa & Health Club at the Burj Al Arab. Call individual hotels for details. Turn to page 116 for a list of properties, most with in-house spa facilities.

Ask the concierge

A n i ta L o t t e r , C o n c i e r g e at T h e R i t z- C a r lt o n D u b a i , shares her top tips for a f u n - f i ll e d s tay i n D u b a i There are so many amazing views in Dubai that sometimes it’s hard to choose. However, if I was asked to make a recommendation I’d have to suggest At.mosphere on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. If you get there at around 5.30pm you can enjoy relaxing cocktails while watching the sun set over the city. If the guest is a little more adventurous, I would advise booking a trip in a seaplane. From the air you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the remarkable coastline and the iconic landmarks that Dubai is famous for. For retail therapy, The Dubai Mall is a good choice. With over 1,000 shops, ranging from highstreet to haute couture, it’s impossible not to find what you’re looking for. It’s also a great place for families as there is the famous Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and The Dubai Fountain, which is a visual spectacle. Nightlife is a big part of Dubai culture, so for a night on the town I would direct guests to Karma Kafé in Souk Al Bahar. The DJ plays great tunes, while trendy décor makes for a great ambiance. For a dose of culture, guests should head to Jumeirah Mosque, which runs morning tours on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. These informative tours are open to all but guests should dress modestly. This is a great way to learn more about Islam and the UAE’s culture and heritage.

Concierge of the Year awards

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 will kick off the Dubai World Cup Carnival on January 5. A number of fixtures take place throughout January, February and March, concluding with the Dubai World Cup. For details visit www.dubairacingclub.com

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

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EXPERIENCE

LOOKING AHEAD

Camel polo

omega Dubai Desert Classic

If you’re looking for a Dubai experience that’s out of the ordinary book in for camel polo lessons at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. Instead of the traditional game, which is played by individuals on horseback, you’ll ride two-at-a-time on these extraordinary creatures. And, if you don’t fancy improving your handicap, there’s also the option to pack a picnic and dine alfresco on the green, or book in for lunch at The Clubhouse. For more information visit www.gulfventures.ae

What: Stars of the golfing world congregate to play for prestigious prizes in this PGA European Tour sponsored by Omega. When: February 6 to 12 Where: Emirates Golf Club Contact: www.dubaidesertclassic.com

K ASABIA N LI V E I N D UBAI What: Award-wining UK rock band Kasabian will be performing live in Dubai. Expect all the big hits including ‘Cutt Off’ and ‘Happiness’. When: February 10 Where: The Sevens Contact: www.doneevents.com

S K Y WAR D s D UBAI I N TER N ATIO N AL J A Z Z F ESTI VAL 2 012 What: Prepare to croon with big-name jazz artists including James Blunt and Jools Holland. When: February 16 to 24 Where: Festival Park, Al Badia Golf Club. Contact: www.dubaijazzfest.com

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, Gucci, Lanvin, Moschino and Dolce & Gabbana (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.

d u b a i d u t y f r e e t e nn i s c h a m p i o nS h i p s What: Tennis fever befalls Dubai as some of the most talented players on the planet battle it out for prominent titles and prizes. When: February 20 to March 3 Where: The Aviation Club Contact: www.dubaidutyfreetennis championships.com

EMIRATES AIRLI N E F ESTI VAL O F LITERATURE 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

D UBAI W ORL D C UP What: The cream of the racing world unites for this annual thoroughbred horserace, held at Meydan Racecourse Where: Meydan When: March 31 Contact: www.dubaiworldcup.com

DISCOVER Art galleries

In addition to Art Dubai (March 21 to 24) – the largest contemporary art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia – there are a variety of exciting art exhibitions that happen throughout the year. From the creative hotspot of Bastakiya to Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), where an abundance of new galleries have opened, the choices are endless. One of the latest displays to hit the Dubai art scene is ‘Method to the Madness’, which features work by accomplished artists including Noor Al Suwaidi, Jowhara AlSaud and Athier. Running until February 1, this exhibition is held at Cuadro Fine Art Gallery in DIFC. Contact: 04 4250400. Time: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Sat 12 to 6pm.

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Snapshot

Mercury rising Like a symbolic compass rising up from the vast Dubai landscape, the shimmering silver needle of the Burj Khalifa has become an iconic monument for a city where flamboyance and splendour know no bounds. The stunning 828-metre skyscraper was designed by Chicagobased firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Surprisingly, considering its ultra-modern appearance, the designers took inspiration from desert flowers and minarets (the tall slender towers on the top of mosques), when they conceptualised the structure, which is clad in 28,000 glass panels. Among its many record-breaking claims, the Burj Khalifa has the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest elevator, the highest occupied floor, the tallest service lift and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest observation deck, which is situated on the 124th floor. This month marks the second anniversary since its grand opening and to learn more about this truly amazing example of architectural excellence, turn to page 56. 20

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

shop Leviev

Leviev has expanded its breathtaking diamond collection with the addition of 13 red diamonds. Ranging in size from 0.46 to 1.16 carats, the set is just over 10.00 carats. Amassed over eight years, the selection comprises rings, earrings and loose diamonds. Leviev is available in high-end jewellers Levant, located in The Dubai Mall and leading luxury hotels. Visit www.levant.com for details.

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sho p/ S HO PPIN G FES TIV A L

S HOPPI N G FE S T I V A L / s hop

Buying Time International fashion shows, outstanding discounts and millions of dirhams in giveaways – ladies and gentlemen, we give you Dubai Shopping Festival

Q WORDS BY SCOTT BIRCH

At any time of the year Dubai is a destination for shoppers. Incredible malls provide not only a comprehensive selection of the world’s luxury brands but unforgettable experiences that make those shopping centres so much more than mere retail destinations. According to a recent report, Dubai comes second only to Hong Kong when it comes to luxury labels and high-end brands. That puts the emirate ahead of stellar shopping destinations such as London, Paris and New York. And then there is the gold market. With prices at record highs, Dubai’s competitive prices attract travellers from all over the globe. Buying the precious metal can also be an experience in itself – from traditional atmospheric souks to hi-tech vending machines, gold is literally at your fingertips. So what could possibly make the shopping experience even better in 2012? That’s the challenge that faces the Dubai Shopping Festival each year and we’re pleased to report it’s a hurdle that it not only clears, but hurtles over with some distance. Think millions of dollars in giveaways in gold bullion, luxury cars to be won every single day of the month-long festival, free family entertainment and events and generous discounts – not only on your purchases but also your flights and accommodation here in Dubai. Some airlines will even increase your luggage allowance. Sounds too good to be true? Welcome to Dubai.

sho p/ S HO PPIN G FES TIV A L

But whatever your country of origin, you are sure to find what you are looking for in Dubai’s mega malls. The largest and most luxurious of them all, The Dubai Mall is an incredible shopping and lifestyle destination at the foot of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. As part of the same Downtown Dubai development, the mall, much like its gleaming neighbour, was designed to be the biggest and most breathtaking. The Dubai Mall holds the official Guinness World Record for Largest Shopping Centre, with a total internal floor area of 5.9 million square feet. But size is nothing without quality and The Dubai Mall also has that in stylish abundance. Taking up some 440,000 square feet of that footprint is Fashion Avenue – home to haute couture labels and designers from around the world. The list is impressive, with boutiques including Burberry, Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci, Hermès, Christian Louboutin, Armani, Tom Ford, Elie Saab, Valentino, Stella McCartney and Salvatore Ferragamo.

1 Gucci (previous page) 2,3,4 Paspaley Muse collection 5 Gucci 6 Amira Haroon, Studio 8 7 Mariam Mazro, Studio 8

Label location The report by CB Richard Ellis Group into luxury brand exposure would be no surprise to anyone familiar with Dubai’s shopping landscape. With new stores opening regularly in some of the world’s greatest retail spaces (thanks to low rents compared with places like New York), it wouldn’t be unreasonable to suggest Dubai might top that list next year. Hong Kong has benefited significantly from the emergence of China in recent years as a consumer force to be reckoned with when it comes to household name brands. However, Dubai has also profited from the rise of China, with a recent MasterCard survey putting Beijing behind only London and Kuwait in terms of visitor arrivals. But when it comes to expenditure, the Chinese visitors are spending the most and have a particular appetite for luxury watches, highend jewellery and fashion accessories.

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

SHO P/ S HO PPIN G FES TIV A L

Less than a decade ago, BurJuman mall was the place to go for designer labels in Dubai. Located in the ‘old’ area of the city, in Bur Dubai, the mall has been reinvigorating its offering since both Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall arrived on the shopping scene and still offers an impressive array of top designer labels. The highlight is the impressive Saks Fifth Avenue department store, where you will find some labels unavailable elsewhere in Dubai, including Prada. Dubai Shopping Festival takes place from January 5 to February 5. Visit www.dubaievents.ae for more information 8&9 Emporio Armani 10 Sergio Rossi 11&14 Maiso du Posh 12 Zagliani 13 Gucci 15 Perrin

Less than a decade ago, BurJuman mall was the place to go for designer labels in Dubai. Located in the ‘old’ area of the city, in Bur Dubai, the mall has been reinvigorating its offering in recent years Opposite corners of the mall also house Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s department stores, each with their own wide selection of must-have merchandise. Then there is the Grand Atrium, home to distinguished watch and jewellery brands including Breguet, Cartier, Chaumet, De Beers, Garrard, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Levant, Montblanc, Piaget, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels and more. Lovers of luxury should also be drawn to the boutiques of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Damas Les Exclusives and Rivoli. With 1,200 retail outlets and 160 food and beverage options (not to mention world-class attractions such as The Dubai Fountain and Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo), The Dubai Mall is the ultimate DSF destination. Equally popular with tourists is Mall of the Emirates, with its signature ski slope. Regarded as something of a novelty, not to mention a technical marvel, these sub-zero slopes in the desert of Dubai

certainly prove an attraction, but don’t let that detract from the considerable shopping highlights. The recent addition of a Fashion Dome has further bolstered the mall’s luxury credentials and it is now home to the likes of Louis Vuitton, Armani, Gucci, Dior and Christian Louboutin. Add to this the only Harvey Nichols store in Dubai, and largest outside of the UK, and you have another mall changing preconceptions.

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info@levant.com www.levant.com Al Qasr | Atlantis | Burj Al Arab +971 4 4243892 +971 4 4226717 +971 4 3483131

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W a t che s / s hop

The immaculate collection With so many watches and so little time, where’s a man to start?

Q There are few ways to reliably measure a man’s self image, but one is by his wristwatch. From elegant chronographs, which set the tone for evening wear, to activity-inspired timepieces that let slip a sporting passion, a watch is the sole piece of jewellery to reveal the wearer’s character. Once the jacket sleeve recedes it has the power to pigeonhole who he is and how he lives, and for that reason the traditional watch sellers of Italy coined the phrase, ‘a well-dressed man owns at least three timepieces’. But selecting a watch is an art of its own. From specific brands, to periods and types, it’s difficult to know where to start. If you’re keen to expand your watch collection but can’t decide which timepiece to invest in, let Concierge lead the way with the ideal watch for your lifestyle.

A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin For those nostalgic over the true craftmanship of watchmaking, A.Lange & Söhne has introduced another classic. The Saxonia Thin is a graceful and self-confident tribute to the heritage of watch making. Ideal for daily wear, this unobtrusive timepiece is the slimmest watch ever crafted by the brand (a mere 5.9mm) and embraces a theme of simplicity. Displaying the time in hours and minutes only, it is the epitome of effortless elegance.

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sho p/ Wa tches

Baume & Mercier Capeland 10001 Innovation is clearly at the heart of Baume & Mercier’s 181-year reign of horological success. The Swiss brand’s Hampton collection is inspired by beachside living and the stress-free Hampton’s lifestyle, making it the ideal buy for chilled-out fellows with an eye for style. The Capeland 10001 – an automatic chronograph with tachymeter and telemeter functions – is crafted with the usual finesse of Baume & Mercier. Elegantly styled with a polished steel face, calfskin wrist strap and a sapphire anti-glare treatment, the timepiece features a 60-second, 30-minute and 12-hour register, as well as a date display, which is conveniently positioned between the 4 and 5 o’clock marks. Dependable and trustworthy, this timepiece will see you through to the 200-year anniversary.

Innovation is clearly at the heart of Baume & Mercier’s 181-year reign of horological success. The Swiss brand’s Capeland collection is elegantly styled with a polished steel face, calfskin wrist strap and a sapphire anti-glare treatment

Dunhill Black Diamond This elegant, 38mm watch is distinguished by a striking dial, featuring crushed black diamonds mixed into lacquer. Inspired by the perpetual elegance of ‘black tie’, the watch has an automatic Jaeger-LeCoultre movement – illustrated by the double-line feature on the dial and crown.

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Renewing its commitment to the game of golf, Omega, a brand that is synonymous with both beauty and utility, has released the Seamaster Aqua Terra. A golfer’s dream timepiece, the steel-on-steel casing and the black and silver dial gives the watch a durable and stylish façade and the distinctive green elements fashionably identify the timepiece with the global sport. This elegant timepiece features a classic brushed and polished stainless steel case and bezel.

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sho p/ Wa tches

Hermès Arceau Le Temps Suspendu Ever wished you could squeeze more hours into the day? Winner of the ‘Best Men’s Watch Prize’ at the Geneva Watch Making Grand Prix 2011, the Arceau Le Temps Suspendu has the ability to make time stand still. We kid you not. Built with a new complication that allows the owner to stop time without disturbing either the onward march or the precision, this unconventional but entertaining illusion is made possible by an additional module that enables the watch to alternate automatically between real and suspended time. Thanks to the inventive system, the running time and suspended time phases are coordinated by two synchronised column wheels – one driving the hours and the other driving the minutes. The 360-degree retrograde hour and minute mechanism literally makes time disappear.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II Historically the watch of choice for pilots, the GMT-Master II has found favour with a wider audience thanks to its impeccable accuracy. Featuring a 24-hour hand and a separate 12-hour hand, the display can show the time in two time zones, making it the ideal purchase for globetrotters. The 24-hour time is read on the special Cerachrom rotating bezel, made from a material so tough that the numerals have to be carved as the ceramic hardens. The strap can also be extended by up to 5mm should the wrist expand due to changes in altitude or temperature.

Blancpain and Omega

Available from Rivoli 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 Residence, Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Spa and the Media Rotana. Dunhill

Available from Dunhill and Rivoli

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Located in: Dunhill – The Dubai Mall and Dubai Festival City Rolex, A. Lange & Söhne, Hermès and Baume & Mercier

Available from Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons 043323777

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

Blancpain 500 Fathoms The timepiece of choice for divers and the big sister to the famous Fifty Fathoms watch, the 500 Fathoms is more highperformance and hi-tech than ever. With an uncompromisingly sporty design, the timepiece is water resistant to 1,000 metres and equipped with a helium decompression valve, which is vital when diving in a closed environment. It is also fitted with a 48mm-diameter titanium case. To enhance the readability there is a luminescent coating on the hour markers, bezel markings and hands. An added bonus is the luminescent base of the dial, which glows in the dark.

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GRAND DESIGNS The small realm of ultra-luxury mobile phones appears to be getting bigger. From diamond-encrusted handsets to concierges on speed dial, when it comes to extravagance, the sky’s the limit

Q Vertu Constellation Vertu’s newest smartphone, Constellation, is the perfect balance between unparalleled craftsmanship and stateof-the-art modern technology. In addition to the standard functions associated with smartphones, such as an eightmegapixel camera and 32GB of memory, the Constellation provides users with tailored information through its concierge service – Vertu Concierge. This unique application can be activated via a dedicated key on the handset and allows access to a range of premium options including Vertu City Brief – a global digest of recommendations in 200 key city destinations worldwide; a first-class sommelier directory on speed dial and an exclusive bespoke gifting service. Each Constellation is handmade by a single craftsman using high-end manufacturing techniques and materials such as sapphire crystal for the screen and surgical-grade stainless steel for the casing. It is available in a variety of styles including Polished Pink, Black Alligator and White Alligator with Diamonds.

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L UX URY PHON E S / S HOP

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SHO P/ LUXURY PHO N ES

Dior Phone Touch The latest brand to jump on the exclusive smartphone bandwagon is fashion powerhouse Christian Dior. With only 98 pieces made, this hand-assembled, high-performance, luxury touchscreen is crafted from a variety of precious materials including sapphire crystal, gold, diamond and mother-of-pearl. Perfectly capturing the style and heritage of Christian Dior, the pieces are adorned with the couturier’s cult colours: black, white and blue. Another of Dior’s hallmarks – the Dior oval – becomes animated each time a number is dialed. Measuring just 103.1mmx50.3mmx12.8mm this little package of luxury weighs in at just 137 grams. But don’t be fooled by the size because much like the intricately designed exterior, the interior specifications are high end. A 3.2in screen is complemented by a five-megapixel camera and a microSD card slot. The pièce de résistance of this ultra-sophisticated handset is the menu, which is distinguished by a variety of unique icons, which one-by-one, tell the story of the Dior.

Bespoke Versace Unique

A choice of 40 exotic skins, including python and stingray, can be made even more distinctive by Versace’s exceptional tanning technique BlackBerry Bold 9780 You’ll need to be quick off the mark to get your hands on one of these exclusive phones because the 24-carat gold-plated BlackBerry Bold 9780 is limited to only 250 pieces per region. Individually numbered and supplied in a handmade wooden box with a certificate of authenticity, each item has been remanufactured by hand from the bespoke luxury brand Gold & Co. London. Unlike other gold-plated products which have less than 0.5 microns of gold, these elite pieces are industrially plated with three microns of gold.

Blending haute couture craftsmanship with luxury mobile technology, a new bespoke service by Versace allows clients to craft their phones to the finest detail. Choosing from a dedicated portfolio of over 1,000 features, the selection begins with the battery and antenna cover. As you would expect from such an iconic brand, Versace has partnered with legendary French artisans of leather, Atelier du Bracelet Parisien, to provide a range of selected leather straps. A choice of 40 exotic skins, including python, ostrich and stingray can be made even more distinctive by Versace’s exceptional tanning technique, which embellishes the colour with a rich nuance. Combine this with an assortment of diamond features, paved into the stainless steel housing and the extensive engraving options, and t he possibilit ies are end less.

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VOLVO OCEAN RACE IS COMING TO ABU DHABI

THIS NEW YEAR

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

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12/9/11 12:31 PM

sho p/ Luxury pho n es

Goldvish If you have heard the name GoldVish, it is most likely because the bling brand holds the Guinness World Record for the most expensive mobile phone. Le Million, as you may suspect, costs AED3.76million (US$1 million) – largely due to the 120 carats of VVS1 diamonds encasing the scarab-shaped handset. Correctly declaring the phone the ultimate luxury mobile, Geneva-based GoldVish creates communication devices that combine ‘Swiss watchmaking, high technology and haute couture’. These strictly limited-edition handsets are for the seriously wealthy. The Revolution model combines a phone with a watch. Fashioned in 18-carat white gold and with 29 carats of VVS diamonds, only nine of these are available, with a price tag of AED1.76 million (US$480,000). At the ‘lower’ end of their luxurious portfolio, the Illusion model boasts 11.3 carats of VVS diamonds adorning the gold casing and dialpad numerals, and costs ‘just’ AED570,000 (US$155,000).

The TAG Heuer LINK is the first luxury smartphone with a touch screen. It is also equipped with a Google Android operating system

TAG Heuer LINK This super-exclusive Swiss-engineered phone is adorned with a total of 1,007 top Wesselton (2.53 carats) diamonds. With typical TAG Heuer style, the exceptional gems, which have been verified by experts in size, colour, clarity and weight, cover the front, sides, back and rear of the handset, guaranteeing maximum dazzle. In addition

to its aesthetic qualities, the TAG Heuer LINK is the first luxury smartphone with a touch screen. It is also equipped with a Google Android operating system and includes stand-out features such as lightening-fast connectivity, 16-million colour screen resolution, a large 3.5’’ display and a high definition five-megapixel auto-focus camera.

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BE A UT Y / S HOP

RISE AND SHINE Protect your skin from the sun and fight the early signs of ageing with our guide to safe tanning

2 1

Q Before you hit Dubai's beaches with little more than a pair of aviators for protection, it’s worth investing in some fail-safe formulas to protect yourself from harmful UV exposure.

For the body BLUMARINE S/S 2011

There is a variety of effective sun creams which are designed to be used all over the body and are very effective at preventing premature ageing, while also enhancing your tan. At the beach, you need a sunscreen that’s waterproof, full-spectrum (both UVB and UVA protection)

and photo-stable (it won’t deteriorate in the sun). Try Clarins Sun Care Milk-Lotion Spray 50+UVB/UVA. This lightweight multi-cellular protection is suitable for use by the pool and for playing sport, and helps to protect skin against the drying effects of saltwater.

1 Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Cream For Face SPF50+ 2 Clarins Sun Care Milk-Lotion Spray SPF50+ 3 Shiseido Urban Environment UV Protection Cream Plus SPF50 4 Lancaster Sport SPF50 5 Lancaster Sun Age Control SPF30 6 Lancôme Soleil DNA Guard SPF15

For the face

4 6

It’s a cruel fact of life that age causes skin to lose collagen and elastin, which leads to wrinkling, sagging and loss of firmness. However, an additional catalyst in this process is extreme sun exposure, because UV rays thin the collagen in the blood-vessel walls, making them weak and easily damaged. To protect your skin try a specific sunscreen which fuses antiageing and high-factor protection benefits. For daily use try Lancôme Sôleil DNA Guard Protective Face Cream, which has a UVA/UVB filtration system that helps to protect against the appearance of sun-generated lines and wrinkles. It also works as a daily moisturiser, leaving your skin fresh, smooth and healthy looking.

For sensitive skin Sunscreens are known for causing irritation to sensitive skin, so if your skin is easily aggravated opt for a cream with natural ingredients. Korres Sweet Orange Sunscreen Emulsion Face & Body SPF15 is an easily absorbed sun shield which offers gentle protection, while also helping to reduce the signs of ageing.

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22/12/2011 10:43

12 lucky winners in the spotlight

Shop for AED 200 and be one of the 12 lucky winners to win thousands worth of shopping vouchers this DSF. *Terms and conditions apply

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Discover Tradit iona l dhow rac i ng

The regal vessels of the Dubai Traditional 60ft Sailing Dhow Race bring the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterways to life from November through to May. Time-honoured sailing skills, passed from generation to generation, are brought into play as seafarers take the helm and navigate by the methods of their forefathers. Races are held every Saturday. For more information visit www.dimc.ae

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D UBA I CRE E K/ DIS COVE R

CHANGING TIDES History, culture and tradition run deep in the shallow river that shapes Dubai

Q Words by Rebecca Gabbai

A natural seawater inlet, for many years Dubai Creek was considered the heart of the city. Traditionally providing sea access to the far corners of the globe, this is where the first settlements in Dubai were established. It is now the historic quarter and home to an intricate network of souks, art galleries, traditional restaurants and an assortment of rich architecture.

A brief history of time The earliest known settlements in Dubai date from 1799, but it wasn’t until 1833 that the Bani Yas tribe, led by Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti Al Maktoum, inhabited the banks of Dubai Creek, leading to the establishment of the small fishing village. Too small to serve as a large-scale trading port, dhows (traditional sailing vessels) were the sole means of transportation for traders and abras (water taxis) were the only way to cross the waterways, which divided the city into two main sections – Deira and Bur Dubai. Fortunately, progressive fishing, pearl diving and a gradual increase in commercial activity led to Dubai Creek being expanded in 1955, which widened the watercourse, making international trade more accessible.

Must see In recent years an array of art galleries have sprung up in this picturesque district. One of the oldest establishments is The Majlis Gallery, which was first opened in 1978 by long-time expatriate Alison Collins. Primarily launched as a meeting place for both Emirati and international artists, it remains one of the most popular galleries along Dubai Creek. www.themajlisgallery.com

‘Old Dubai’ While the vast expansions of the last 40 years has seen Dubai transformed from a seaside fishing village to a paradigm of modern architectural excellence, the old-world charm of Dubai Creek is steadfast. The bustling watercourse, which is still buzzing with dhows and abras, is a nostalgic emblem of the days before Dubai’s oil was first discovered in 1969 and it remains a spot of interest for discerning travellers and culture vultures who hanker for a slice of ‘old Dubai’. One of the best ways to explore this culturally rewarding area is on foot, starting at the Heritage & Diving Village. Built around an old settlement, Heritage & Diving Village is a re-creation of an ancestral township and one of the most ancient locations in Dubai. A ‘living’ museum, for just AED2 you can experience a 200-year-old mosque and traditional houses, while learning about the social customs of Bedouin life. Handicraft stalls, where you can observe basket weaving, pottery and traditional cookery, are also operational and showcase the various livelihoods that helped to keep Dubai’s economy afloat before the discovery of oil.

Dubai Creek is also home to Bastakiya, a picturesque area situated next to the British Embassy in Bur Dubai. The oldest residential part of the city, the maze-like streets were originally the neighbourhood of Dubai’s elite and the architecture reflects that. Wind towers (bajeels) – the original air-conditioning system in the UAE – are widespread in the area. In times gone by the wealth of a family would have been measured by the number of bajeels on a house – the wealthier the family, the more bajeels.

Food for thought From a fragrant cup of Arabic coffee to a more elaborate feast, such as ouzi – a whole roast lamb stuffed with rice – dining is an important part of UAE life and this is no better showcased than at Dubai Creek.

Arabic eateries line the banks of the water, making it a top choice for those who wish to experience the original culinary traditions of the city. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which is located in Bastakiya, runs a variety of cultural breakfast and lunch tours where guests can dine on Arabic fare, while learning about the history and culture of the UAE. For something less structured, Bait Al Wakeel, with its pretty wooden terrace overhanging the water, is one of the most popular dining spots in the district and serves a variety of traditional dishes. For bookings call 04 3530530.

1 Bastakiya 2 Heritage & Diving Village 3 Majlis Gallery 4 An abra ferries passengers across Dubai Creek

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DIS C O VER / TO URIS T TRA IL

Money talks

Five-star restaurants, designer boutiques and world-class art galleries. Welcome to Dubai International Financial Centre

Admittedly, a jaunt around a city’s financial district isn’t likely to be at the top of many vacation itineraries, but before you pass judgment, please note, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is no ordinary commerce centre. In addition to being the near-shore financial hub of the Middle East and North Africa, this high-class district, located just north of Burj Khalifa, boasts an assortment of attractions including world-renowned eateries and wine bars, prominent art galleries and a selection of designer shops, which could leave even the most seasoned of shoppers rubber legged.

Much like the rest of modern Dubai, DIFC has to be seen to be believed. With 110-acres of design brilliance, the area is populated by jaw-dropping architectural wonders such as The Gate – the signature building of DIFC – and the French art deco-inspired Ritz-Carlton DIFC. As you’d expect, by day the district is abuzz with a mixture of well-heeled financial types and high-end shoppers. However, members of Dubai’s art community also have a big presence in the area. While Dubai is best known for its ever-changing skyline and multi-billion dollar 1 Zuma 2 The Gate, Dubai International Financial Centre

expansion projects, it’s also becoming recognised for its art scene and many galleries and cultural institutions have set up shop in this glitzy neighbourhood. Among them are XVA Gallery, Edge of Arabia and Ayyam Art Center which regularly showcase international exhibitions. The retail scene is equally rewarding with all the top name brands represented. Interior gurus are also in luck because Andrew Martin opened his first Middle Eastern store in DIFC in 2009. This is the place to head for one-off home pieces and vintage furniture finds. At night DIFC comes into its own. A buzzing atmosphere reverberates around the area with Dubai’s ultra-glamorous crowd taking their pick from an array of stylish bars, such as Caramel and The Gramercy. Foodies can also look forward to a gourmet bill of fare because DIFC is home to a selection of super-chic eateries, including exclusive Japanese restaurant Zuma and the newly opened Argentinean steakhouse Gaucho. The best news is that DIFC is on the ultra-swish Dubai Metro red line, which runs from 6am to 11pm, Saturday to Thursday and from 1pm to midnight on Fridays, so when it’s time for bed you don’t even have to worry about flagging a cab.

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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

CULTURAL CONNECTION Abandon the malls and beaches for just a few hours and delve into Dubai’s fascinating culture at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Q With its towering skyscrapers and sprawling shopping malls it’s easy to focus on all things modern in Dubai. But this glamorous destination, a playground for the rich and famous, also offers a more cultural side not often seen by the millions of visitors who grace its shores each year. One of the best places to enjoy a taste of this local culture is the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). Located in picturesque Bastakiya, one of Dubai’s oldest quarters, the SMCCU aims to increase understanding between cultures in Dubai. Operating under the banner of ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ the centre strives to remove barriers between people of different nationalities and raise awareness of the local culture, customs and religion of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). If you want to find out why local women wear black and men white, how Emirati food differs from more generic Arabic food or how the older generation of Emiratis view the destination’s extensive development, the SMCCU is the place to go. Run by a group of friendly locals all in close touch with the ways of the west, this fascinating organisation is the pearl in Dubai’s cultural crown.

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E MI RA T I CUL T URE / DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER /EMIRA TI C U L TU RE

Food for thought His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum established the centre in 1998. Since then, it has evolved and now offers three interactive and engaging programmes for visitors: the Jumeirah Mosque tour, Bastakiya tour and perhaps most rewarding of all, the cultural breakfasts and lunches in which visitors can ask any question they like about local customs and beliefs.

Held in the SMCCU’s charming windtower house, these frank and open discussions are hosted every Monday and Wednesday at 10am and Sunday and Tuesday at 1pm over a spread of authentic Emirati cuisine. Dishes, which are laid out on the floor, include balaleet (omelette and chick peas), khobbs khameer (bread) and lugamat (doughnuts served with sticky

“No question is off limits. We have a ‘freedom to ask’ policy which means no one from SMCCU will be offended by, or laugh at, any questions you may have. We answer everything honestly and sincerely”

date syrup). Visitors are welcome to dig into the food and chat freely with the volunteers who are on hand to answer a wide variety of questions. “No question is off limits. We have a ‘freedom to ask’ policy which means no one from SMCCU will be offended by, or laugh at, any questions you may have. We answer everything honestly and sincerely,” says presenter Souad Al Serkal. Popular topics for discussion include the need for Muslim women to cover their bodies, why Muslim men are allowed to marry more than one wife and the finer details of Ramadan, the Islamic Holy Month. Held in the open courtyard in the cooler winter months and indoors in summer, the discussions take place in a circle, majlis style, which means visitors are seated on cushions on the floor. Informal, insightful and incredibly popular, the breakfasts and lunches require advance booking.

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DIS C O VER /EMIRA TI C U L TU RE

“The tours last a little over an hour,” explains Nasif Kayed, one of the mosque’s guides and a volunteer at the SMCCU. “We talk about ablution, the mosque itself, Ramadan and Islam generally. We take any questions, even personal ones, and answer with fact not opinion.” The tour runs every Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10am. You do not need to reserve a place, but you must arrive at the main entrance of the Jumeirah Mosque by approximately 9.45am. Finally, the SMCCU offers three excellent tours around Bastakiya

and Dubai Creek. The Bastakiya Heritage Tour lasts 90 minutes and includes a walk through Bastakiya and a v isit to Bastak iya Mosque. Guests then return to the centre for a cultural question and answer session with Arabic tea, coffee and dates. The one-hour Bastakiya Walking Tour also includes a question and answer session at the centre while the Creekside Tour features a walk through the Textile Souk, a ride on an abra (water taxi) to the Gold Souk and Spice Souk and a question and answer session. This tour, by special request only, lasts two hours.

To contact the SMCCU, call 04 3536666, email smccu@cultures.ae or visit www.cultures.ae

More from a tour Tours of Jumeirah Mosque are also in high demand. With a strong interest among many non-Muslims to learn more about Islam, the SMCCU started offering guided tours of Jumeirah Mosque more than 10 years ago. One of the few mosques in the UAE open to nonMuslims, this majestic building on Jumeira Beach Road features ornate scriptures from the Qur’an and paintings of delicate f lowers on the walls and archways. A focal point of the Open Doors, Open Minds programme, the tour gives a unique opportunity to learn about Emirati culture and Islam in a relaxed and open atmosphere. The tours are extremely popular with approximately 50 visitors attending each session. Both men and women must dress conservatively with loose trousers or long skirts, long sleeves and a head scarf for ladies. Visitors are welcome to take photographs so be sure to take your camera.

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Made in Italy

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

sky-high dubai The world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, is a triumph of the UAE’s vision. Concierge looks beyond the awesome façade

Q Words by SCOTT BIRCH

Two years ago and seven years after excavation work began, the Burj Khalifa opened with a dramatic ceremony that was shown live around the world. The world’s tallest building at 828 metres, it shattered the previous record by 320 metres and may never be beaten. Officially opened by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, the tower was originally called Burj Dubai but was renamed Burj Khalifa after the president of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. “This great project deserves to carry the name of a great man,” said Sheikh Mohammed. “Today, I inaugurate Burj Khalifa.” More than just a building, Burj Khalifa is a symbol of progress and an icon for the modern Middle East. Mohammed Alabbar, chairman of developer Emaar, described the Burj Khalifa as “the Arab world’s tribute to the art and science of modern engineering and design. Burj Khalifa symbolises the aesthetic unison of many cultures – from Arabia and the rest of the world.” Simply, the Burj Khalifa is stunning and an essential sight and experience for all visitors to Dubai.

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BURJ KHA L I FA / DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER / B URJ KHAL IF A

Realising the dream Building something as impressive and groundbreaking as the Burj Khalifa required bold thinking and solid science. Before work even began, the feasibility of the project needed to be analysed. The architects and construction teams were in unchartered territory and many factors had to be taken into account and tested – from the effect of the wind to the change in air pressure and temperature at altitude. Shaped at the base to resemble the hymenocallis desert flower, the Burj Khalifa has a Y-shaped structure which provides greater stability. The final height of the building was a closely guarded secret, with even the engineers admitting they did not know the final height that would be achieved. “We weren’t sure how high we could go,” said Bill Baker of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the building’s structural engineer. “It was kind of an exploration... a learning experience.” As building work progressed, the Burj Khalifa became the world’s tallest building in 2007 and still the construction continued. News emerged that it would be at least 700 metres tall and few even considered that 800 metres would be possible. At the height of construction, more than 12,000 workers from 100 countries were on site every day. In total, 22 million man-hours went into creating the tower. The results are there for all to see and for the select few to savour. At the base of the Burj Khalifa is the Armani Hotel Dubai, which takes up concourse level to level eight, as well as two higher floors – levels 9 to 16 also house the luxurious Armani Residencies. From 45 to 108, private residences enjoy fabulous views of the city’s skyline, from the world’s most exclusive address. Most of the remaining floors are used for corporate suites, with the notable exceptions being the fine-dining At.mosphere and the observation deck.

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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

DIS C O VER / B URJ KHAL IF A

At T h e T o p Tickets for immediate entry to At the Top are AED400 per person for all ages. Reserved admission tickets allow you to book an allocated date and time and cost AED100 for adults, AED75 for children aged 4-12, free for children 0-3. Opening times are Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 10pm, Thursday to Saturday 10am to midnight. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing. For more information, call 04 8888124.

Located high on the 124th floor and with 360-degree panoramic views, this observation deck not only provides stunning vistas but also insight into the construction of the city as well as the tower in which you are standing. The journey begins in the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall

Dubai is a jaw-dropping city with many landmark buildings and developments to admire. Now you can see them all from one place – At the Top. Located high on the 124th floor and with 360-degree panoramic views, this observation deck not only provides stunning vistas but also insight into the construction of the city as well as the tower in which you are standing. The journey begins on the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall (the world’s largest shopping complex at the base of the Burj Khalifa). From this reception area, a travelator trip takes you through the emirate’s

recent history. It’s then time to hop inside the super-swift high-speed elevator, which travels at a rate of10 metres per second all the way to At the Top. Throughout the journey to the top, visitors are entertained by a multimedia presentation of the exotic history of Dubai and the marvel of the Burj Khalifa. Once at your destination, special binoculars allow you to spot Dubai’s famous sights, as well as provide a virtual journey through time, showing the city as it was. Tours generally last an hour but visitors can take their time. Souvenirs are available at the gift shop but you are already going to take away unforgettable memories of this manmade marvel.

Photography: Adham Sneeh

View from the top

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Private

Charter

www.f1yacht.com

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

experience Desert driving

A trip out of the city into the Arabian Desert is an aweinspiring adventure. The unspoilt dunes can be reached within an hour, with tour operators providing pick-up from Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hotels. Those looking for excitement can taste the thrill of desert driving, while a trip to a traditional desert camp provides a more sedate experience. Turn to page 109.

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Sail away With calm turquoise waters and endless sunshine, the UAE’s coastline is begging to be explored

Q W o r d s b y C h a r l o t t e Va n d e n B r o u c q u e

With the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, year-round sunshine and 800 kilometres of coastline, Dubai is the perfect place to jump aboard a luxury yacht and take in the magnificent sights from a different perspective. Witness the breathtaking size of the Palm Jumeirah from the aquamarine waters, sail around The World development or take a tour past the buildings of historic Dubai Creek and watch the city illuminate as the sun goes down.

Lap of luxury The superyacht has become today’s symbol for the rich, powerful and influential and the UAE is home to more than its fair share of the gleaming multi-million-dirham floating palaces. In 2006 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE, added a superyacht called Dubai to his breathtaking fleet. Featuring eight decks spread across a 551-foot length, this gargantuan beast of the sea can accommodate 115 people, has numerous restaurants, bars, a whole deck of suites, pools, Jacuzzis and a helipad among its facilities. The lavish interior design work is the talent of Platinum Yachts and it cost more than US$300 million (AED1.1 billion) to complete. At one point the Dubai was the largest yacht in the world, but it was overtaken in 2010 by Russian businessman Roman Abramovich’s largest superyacht Eclipse.

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Ya cht i n g/ E XP E R IE NCE

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EXPE R IENCE/Ya chtin g

Plan an escape While it might not be possible to charter yachts on such a large scale, there are plenty of breathtakingly impressive models which will undoubtedly please those looking for the crème de la crème of the boating world. A plethora of sailing options and activities are available and all meet a variety of requirements. First Yacht, based in the heart of Dubai Marina, offers exclusive use of yachts to individuals or groups and sails daily. With crafts that range from 43ft to 88ft, each vessel is professionally crewed to offer a luxurious and safe charter experience. For those in a large group, it’s the perfect opportunity to privately charter a yacht for up to 38 people and to take in the sites of the coastline. Alternatively you can opt for something smaller, such as the 43ft Silver Craft, which has a maximum capacity of 10 and can be hired for a minimum of two hours. Visitors can arrange to take their own food and beverages, however First Yacht can arrange anything from canapés and cocktails to a fivecourse gourmet meal. Many yachts have an on-deck barbecue, which guests can use themselves or have a bespoke menu prepared for them by the boat’s chef. Yachts can be chartered for a couple of hours or even days, with many of the bigger boats offering luxurious cabin facilities with ensuite bathrooms. Aim to set sail in the early evening

Art Marine is the largest marine hospitality company in the region and caters to corporate clients as well as individual guests. For something truly different, try the romantic dinner cruise to catch the beautiful colours of the sunset before darkness falls over the city. The dazzling lights of the city skyline make for an incredible scene. Let your imagination run wild as private charter experiences can be tailored to please even the most discerning guest and fulfil the most outlandish requests. For more high-octane passengers, First Yacht also offers the opportunity to hire the Sea Rocket boat – an offshore racinginspired catamaran adapted for fast offshore tours. Alternatively book in for something a little more sedate, such as a sea fishing trip or a private dinner cruise. Art Marine is the largest marine hospitality company in the region and caters to corporate clients as well as individual guests. For something truly different, try the romantic dinner cruise while the sun sets over the Arabian Gulf. A private chef will prepare a gourmet five-course dinner as the lucky couple enjoys some quality time together on the water. Or for a trip aimed at pampering, Art Marine’s wellness and relaxation cruise

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EXPE R IENCE/Ya chtin g

The Marina Yacht Club has in excess of 500 walk-on walk-off berths in four stunning locations within the Dubai Marina development, right in the heart of the city

serves healthy cocktails and fresh fruit before anchoring at a lagoon inside Palm Jumeirah where you can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment of your choice. For those in a sporting mood, fishing competitions can be arranged with team-branded clothing, trophies, certificates and prizes. You can even have the catch of the day cooked fresh for you aboard a yacht.The possibilities are endless.

Want moor?

Ya c h t â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s h o t Contact these companies to tailor an aquatic getaway First Yacht 056 7897415

www.f1yacht.com

Art Marine 04 4068825

www.artmarine.net

There are several marinas in Dubai where yacht owners can moor their boats. Festival Marina, which is located in Dubai Festival City, is a Mediterranean-inspired marina with 78 permanent berths, state-of-the-art facilities and quayside mooring for yachts between 10 and 35 metres in length. This Riviera-style setting is also home to an abundance of fine eateries. From five-star French cuisine in the form of Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire, to low-key waterside alfresco dining, there is something to suit every palate. On the Deira side youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the Dubai Creek Marina. Complete with chandlery, workshop and boat repair yard this marina, located in a historically rich area, boasts 121 berths. In the heart of Dubai Marina, the Dubai International Marine Club offers berthing facilities for 300 yachts and the Marina Yacht Club has in excess of 500 walk-on walk-off berths in four stunning locations within the Dubai Marina development. With a buzzing community feel and spectacular views this is one of the most desirable spots in the city.

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EXPE R IENCE/Ferra ri Wo rl d A b u D h a b i

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F e r r ar i W o r l d Abu Dha bi / E XPE R IE NCE

fasten your seat belts Hold on as the world’s fastest rollercoaster hits 240kmh, get behind the wheel of an F1 simulator and embark on a 4D adventure at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Q Words by Amanda Tomlinson

It’s no secret that Abu Dhabi is mad about motorsport. Home to the 2011 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which takes place in November, the city thrives on petrol fumes. Situated on Yas Island, the country’s home of motorsport, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is hard to miss. Its huge red roof, which has been built in the shape of a classic double-curve body shell of a Ferrari GT and measures 200,000 square metres, is punctuated by the world’s largest Ferrari logo. It offers more than 20 rides and attractions, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster which reaches speeds of 240kmh. Andy Keeling, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi park manager, says the theme park offers an exhilarating experience for families and fans. “There’s more to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi than the thrill of speed racing and powerful cars,” says Keeling. “The park celebrates Ferrari’s past and present, and pays homage to its Italian roots in a bespoke and innovative way, from the stunning structure through to the attractions and various experiences offered.” But what can visitors expect from this high-octane theme park? Concierge takes a look at what’s on offer.

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F e r r ar i W o r l d Abu Dha bi / E XPE R IE NCE

Attention thrill-seekers Ferrari World is a theme park and if there’s one thing that theme parks aim to do well, it’s give thrills. For the ultimate adrenaline fix, Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, accelerates to 240kmh in less than five seconds, emulating the speed of a Formula One car. It even looks like a Formula One car with racing-style seats, but the circuit has no loops.This is “logical”, according to Keeling, because F1 cars are not meant to be upside down. “If we were in a real Formula One car and it was turning upside down, we’d have a problem.” With extreme speed and G-force, Formula Rossa is powered by a hydraulic winch system similar to those used to launch jet planes and reaches

heights of 50 metres, offering dramatic views across Yas Island. Ferrari World’s other rollercoaster, Fiorano GT Challenge, is based on the roadgoing F430 Spider. It’s a duelling ride with two F430 Spider coasters racing each other at speeds of 100kmh. Like a regular car they brake when the carriage reaches a bend in the track and then accelerate again, twisting through tight corners in a race to the finish line. The third thrill ride is G-Force, which blasts its passengers up through the red roof and back down again. “The tower is about 62 metres, but the ride reaches about 50 metres with 4.5Gs. After reaching this height, you fall weightlessly back down to earth, stopping just before the bottom,” explains Keeling.

3 1 G-Force (previous page) 2 Junior Grand Prix 3 Bell’Italia 4 Fiorano GT Challenge

Formula One fun

One of the best thought-out attractions, according to Keeling, is the Paddock, an area based on a European-style Formula One paddock with two semi trucks, a Ferrari motorhome and service garages. “This gives visitors the chance to see the European race scene, which is very different to what we have here at Yas Marina Circuit. You can look in the semis and see what’s going on with the planning and technical team, go into the garage and touch or pick up tyres, look at the screens for technical data, put on the headphones and listen to the team talking,” enthuses Keeling. “Occasionally some of our guys will grab a Formula One car and push it out into the pit lane, give you some goggles and safety gloves and train you to change the tyres.” Pit Wall is an interactive theatre that offers visitors the chance to dictate race day with tactics and strategies, such as tyre changes, while the 3D Driving with Champions lets fans ride tandem with racing champions as they skid around tight corners and spin through wet surfaces. Take things up a gear and race other fans in one of eight simulators in Scuderia Challenge. Taking charge of the Ferrari F1 steering wheels in Ferrari seats secured by the five-point racing harness, visitors will navigate Yas Marina Circuit in simulators similar to those used by the Scuderia Ferrari drivers in training.

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F e r r ar i W o r l d Abu Dha bi / E XPE R IE NCE

Fans of the brand

Through attractions such as Galleria Ferrari and Made in Maranello, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi celebrates the passion, excellence, performance and technological innovation so synonymous with the brand. Galleria Ferrari is the largest Ferrari gallery outside Maranello with an interactive display of cars from 1947 through to the present. The racing cars are on loan from Ferrari, while the seven roadgoing cars are classics that belong to collectors from around the world. There is even a waiting list of collectors who want to display their treasured vehicles at Ferrari World. Made in Maranello offers visitors the opportunity to go behind the doors of the famous Ferrari factory in Maranello, a privilege previously only enjoyed by Ferrari owners, factory workers and staff of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The ride takes fans along the production path, starting with the design of the car, moving through the foundry and machine shops where the cars are welded together, then the paint shop and finally the testing. Witness significant moments in Ferrariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s racing history from the original Italian road rallies to the Scuderiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most recent world championships in Racing Legends. Then move on to Cinema Maranello, which screens a film about an aspiring race car driver, Enzo Ferrari, in the roaring twenties.

Age is no obstacle

From gentle carousel rides to junior Grand Prix racing in miniature Ferrari F1 cars, youngsters of all ages are well catered for at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Junior GT, a driving school for children, offers a lesson on road safety and handling before the drivers are given the keys to their own child-sized F430 GT Spider, which they will navigate through a scaled-down streetscape with roundabouts, traffic signals and road signs. After graduating from the Junior GT and receiving a personalised Ferrari driving licence, Junior Grand Prix offers young racers the chance to receive expert tuition in race technique and safety before piloting one of 50 child-sized Ferrari F1 cars around a course of hairpin turns, roads and tunnels. Go into the heart of a Ferrari 599 GTB engine on a flume ride in V12. From the 20-metre-wide grill, visitors float through the air intake box, to the engine, past the pistons and the differential before being ejected out of the exhaust pipe.

5 Scuderia Challenge 6&7 Formula Rossa

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Sunday

SOUTH IGHT ASIAN N

an, Sri Lank d Indian, e esh them Banglad

Tuesda y

Monday

CURRY NIGHT

SOUTH EAST ASIAN NIGHT Wednes da

NEW ORLEAN S

Chinese, Japanese , Korean, Vietnames e, Thai themed

Friday

ARABIC NIGHT

Located on the 24th floor, featuring a breathtaking view of Burj downtown, The Californian restaurant offers a wide variety of sumptuous dishes ranging from South Asian, South East Asian, New Orleans, Arabic dishes and Deep Blue Ocean selection. South Asian, South East Asian, Curry Night, New Orleans, Arabic Night AED 150 per person inclusive of selected house beverage AED 125 per person inclusive of soft drinks and juices AED 115 per person on food only Deep Blue Ocean Theme Night AED 210 per person inclusive of selected house beverage AED 165 per person inclusive of soft drinks and juices AED 135 per person on food only

For enquiries and reservations: Tel: +971 4 317 4515 Email: dine.dtdu@dusit.com Web: dusitthanidubai.dusit.com

Thursd

DEEP BLUE

F e r r ar i W o r l d Abu Dha bi / E XPE R IE NCE

Take a seat in a scaled-down 1957 California and drive through a miniature Italy in Bell’Italia. The six-minute journey ambles past the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Portofino and a Venetian lagoon with a model of Piazza San Marco. Follow the adventures of a young boy as he travels through a 4D dreamscape in Speed of Magic. Temperatures plunge when he reaches the icy caves and then soar when he enters the mouth of a fiery volcano in pursuit of a mischievous animated character from another world.

Junior Training Camp is a play area where younger children can become a custom ‘constructor’, climb the grandstand, pilot remote cars and pedal a miniature Ferrari. Carousel is Ferrari’s take on the carnival favourite with winning designs from a contest bringing to life dreams of what the next generation of Ferraris may look like. La Gara charts an F1 race from the start to the chequered flag through the eyes of the pit crew. The 30-minute show includes power skippers, stunt skaters and acrobats.

8 Ferrari World Abu Dhabi 9 Atrium 10 Galleria Ferrari

9 10

Aside from the rides

E s s e n t i a l i n f o r m at i o n Where: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is on Yas Island on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi. How: Hotels can arrange transport and it takes around an hour and 20 minutes to drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (depending on your location). When: Tuesday to Sunday from noon to 10pm Price: AED225 for those 1.5 metres tall and above, AED165 for those under 1.5 metres. Premium tickets are available Contact: www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Ferrari is a quintessentially Italian brand so the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi experience would not be complete without great food. There is a range of restaurants and cafes serving guests Ferrari-inspired dishes with a true taste of Italy. Mamma Rossella is a traditional familystyle Italian trattoria modelled on the restaurant in the Maranello countryside that is popular with Ferrari drivers and management. There’s also Cavallino, an à la carte restaurant offering mouthwatering Italian delicacies, which is based on the restaurant next door to the Ferrari factory and was a favourite with Enzo Ferrari.

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Taste Ne w Ye a r D e tox

Need a break from holiday season indulgence? Many hotels in Dubai provide healthy dining options and Ossigeno, at Le Royal MĂŠridien Beach Resort & Spa, will be serving up a mouthwatering selection of Italian dishes, specifically designed to kick-start a healthier lifestyle. This special menu is available from January 7 to 31. For bookings call 04 3995555.

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bars in the stars Quench your thirst and feast your eyes, with these fantastic city views

Q Dubai is famous for its ever-changing skyline. From the ultramodern Burj Khalifa to the fantasia-like Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, the awe-inspiring horizon is peppered with an intricate network of innovative architectural wonders. And what better way to take in the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive skyline than from a luxury rooftop bar? Home to an assortment of high-end night spots, many of which are situated at high altitude, whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re enjoying a tipple at night, during the day, alone or with a date, nothing sharpens your senses like height, so prepare for some jaw-dropping sights of the city while you socialise.

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neos

Ba rs / t a s t e

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Bar 44 Champagne aficionados come one, come all because perched on the 44th floor of Grosvenor House Dubai you’ll find Bar 44. With 52 varieties of Champagne and a list that includes bottles from all over the Champagne region in Northern France, this is where to come if you want a stylish tipple coupled with a to-die-for view. Not keen on bubbles? Peruse the extensive wine list, which has an excellent selection of red, white and rosé wines. Likewise, the cocktails are equally promising. For a sip of something special order the delicious Royale 44, which is made with smashed fresh strawberries, ginger and Demerara sugar, muddled and topped with Taittinger Brut Champagne. Location: Grosvenor House Dubai Signature drink: Bubbling Berries. Contains vodka, raspberries and pineapple juice, finished with Taittinger Brut Champagne. AED148 Open: 6pm to 2am Friday to Wednesday and 6pm to 3am on Thursdays / Contact: 04 3998888

For a sip of something special order the delicious Royal 44, which is made with smashed fresh strawberries, ginger and Demerera sugar, muddled and topped with Taittinger Brut Champagne

Vu’s Bar This bar has serious altitude thanks to its location on the 51st floor of Jumeirah Emirates Towers. High-vaulted ceilings and chic minimalist design makes this one of Dubai’s most sophisticated spots so expect a stylish clientele and a hip ambience. For the ultimate Vu’s experience, take a table overlooking Sheikh Zayed Road. The striking skyline combined with the heaving highway below is contrasted with the chilled atmosphere of the bar. From here you can sip on a refreshing Vu’s Mojito, made with Matusalem Platino rum, mint, lime, sugar and soda, and quite literally watch the world go by. Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers Signature drink: 1800 Hibiscus. Contains hibiscus-infused tequila, aloe vera concentrate, agave syrup and lime. AED65 Open: 6pm to 3am daily Contact: 04 3198088

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t a st e /B a rs

At.mosphere With a spot on the 122nd floor the unique selling point speaks for itself, but being the world’s highest bar is just one of At.mosphere’s many attributes. Situated inside the Burj Khalifa, this ultra-modern haunt oozes style. With a polished wooden bar, elegant low lighting and twinkling candle lights, At.mosphere would look good anywhere, whether it be the second floor or the 122nd. Fortunately, in this case the lofty location gains it extra points. Head up early and watch the sun go down and the lights go up across the city. The whole experience is made all the sweeter thanks to the bar’s delectable cocktail list. The jasmine and lychee martini, made with citron vodka, lychee and grapefruit juice, mixed with jasmine syrup definitely gets our thumbs up. Location: Burj Khalifa Signature drink: Zacap Mojito. Contains mint tea-infused white rum, mint leaves and lime. AED70 Open: 6pm to 2am daily Contact: 04 8883828

At.mosphere would look good anywhere, whether it be the second floor or the 122nd. In this case the lofty location gains it extra points

Skyview Suspended 200 metres above sea level, it goes without saying that the views from the Burj Al Arab’s signature cocktail bar, Skyview, are hard to beat. One of the few bars in Dubai that requires an advance booking, this glitzy haunt is the stomping ground for the crème de la crème of the Dubai social scene. The dazzling décor, which combines kitsch interior design with elegant floorto-ceiling windows, is one of the bar’s trademarks, along with the palatable cocktail menu, which includes a variety of signature concoctions. The Arabic Lemondrop, which is made with citrus vodka, Cointreau, lemon juice and sugar syrup comes highly recommended by the bartenders and The Legacy – a blend of rum, pineapple, lime, coriander, passion fruit and vanilla – is a house special. Location: The Burj Al Arab Signature drink: Dubai Dreams. Gin, violet liqueur, elderflower syrup, lemon juice, black grapes and lime leaves. Dhs120 Open: 12pm to 2am Saturday to Thursday Contact: 04 3017600

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t a st e /B a rs

Neos You know you’re in for a treat when you have to change lifts to reach your destination, so a speedy elevator swap on the 61st floor is a sign of things to come. Located on the 63rd floor of The Address Downtown Dubai, the first thing that hits you about Neos is the stunning view from the floor-to-ceiling windows. You’ll have a job tearing yourself away from the breathtaking sights of the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountain and the buzzing Downtown Dubai Boulevard, but fortunately the indoor scenery is just as mesmerising. With a sleek 1920s feel, the place is reminiscent of a bygone era. Art deco paintings fill the walls while the bartenders don bowties and white tuxedos. The drinks menu is equally appealing with a long list of beverages to suit each and every palate. From single malt whisky to Champagne cocktails, the biggest dilemma of the evening is which tipple to try first.

A L S O T RY… TAMANYA TERRACE

Located in the heart of Media City, this outdoor-terrace bar at the top of Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City, is the ideal setting for winter tourists who want to take advantage of the cooler climate. Open 5pm to 1.30am Sunday to Wednesday and 5pm to 2am Friday and Saturday. 04 3669111

Location: The Address Downtown Dubai Signature drink: Royal Moon. Contains orange-flavoured vodka, mandarin liqueur, passion fruit, grapefruit juice, Laurent-Perrier Brut NV. AED70 Open: 6pm to 2.30am daily / Contact: 04 4368888

No matter how busy the bar is you can expect a warm welcome upon arrival and if you get there early (before the post-work crowd) the chances are you’ll be guaranteed a window seat

The Observatory As the saying goes: ‘cream rises to the top’, which is why Dubai’s ‘it’ crowd has been steadily flocking towards The Observatory on the 52nd floor of the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites. With panoramic views of the Dubai Marina and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, the unparalleled vistas are the pièce de résistance of this trendy bar, but the wideranging drinks menu and the impeccable service is also a major bonus. No matter how busy the bar is you can expect a warm welcome upon arrival and if you get there early (before the post-work crowd) the chances are you’ll be guaranteed a window seat, where you can look out over the idyllic Arabian Gulf and the lights of Dubai Marina. From Long Island iced teas to martinis and mojitos, all the expected concoctions are on the menu, but if you want to try something a bit different order the French 75, which is a tasty mix of gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and prosecco. Location: Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Signature drink: Sleepless in Dubai. Contains gin, cherry brandy and lemon juice. AED40 Open: 5.30pm to 1am daily Contact: 04 3194000

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The Fish Market is Dubai’s favourite “market style” fresh seafood restaurant which offers unrivalled views of the Creek as well as the freshest seafood available. Choose from a wide selection of freshly caught ﬁsh and an array of seafood delicacies, then relax whilst our team of South East Asian Chefs prepare it exactly as you like it. Fish Market, Seafood restaurant, is open daily for Lunch from 12:30 pm - 3:15 pm, Dinner 7:30 pm - 11:15 pm

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Baniyas Road, P.O. Box 476, Dubai UAE For Bookings, please call 04-205 7333 Infocenter.Dxbza@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaideiracreek

A r abi c coffe e / T A S T E

The daily grind Arabic coffee, with its unique taste, is a symbol of hospitality in the Middle East

Q Words by Amanda Tomlinson

For millions of people around the world, coffee is the only way to start the day. For some, meeting with friends over a fresh brew is a key component in their social life, while for others it provides a welcome break from the day’s chores. Coffee, which was discovered in Ethiopia, has played an important social and religious function since the ninth century. By the 15th century, coffee was being consumed in Yemen, Persia, Turkey and Egypt, as well as other parts of northern Africa. It later spread to Italy and many parts of Europe. These days it is truly international and it’s not uncommon to see a Starbucks on every second street corner in cities all around the world. In the UAE, however, there is more to coffee than international chains and Italian blends. Here it is a symbol of hospitality that dates back to Bedouin times when people greeted their guests with a small cup of steaming, freshly brewed Arabic coffee. “It was a drink that made people feel good,” explains Nasif Kayed, general manager of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. “We now know this is because of the caffeine, but back then it was a nice beverage to welcome your guests with.” While it was one of the few drinks available at the time, it is still a preferred

beverage in the Middle East today and still a traditional welcome drink. The coffee is served immediately on arrival from a dallah (traditional coffee pot). The gahwaji (coffee waiter) refills the empty cups until the guest gently shakes their cup to indicate they have had enough. It is customary to take two or three cups. More than three is considered greedy, while less than two is impolite. It is often served with dates, which helps to break down the bitter taste. The coffee has a unique f lavour, which changes depending on the preference of the person making it. The only ingredient that is always used is cardamom, which helps to settle the stomach. “Saffron is sometimes added to give flavour and colour,” says Kayed. “Ginger can also be added for taste and for its medicinal qualities, as can cloves.” The coffee beans are lightly roasted, coarsely ground and then boiled for 10 minutes. It is transferred to the dallah for easy pouring and served from small cups. There are many hotels in Dubai that offer fresh Arabic coffee to guests on arrival. Alternatively, visitors who visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding can look forward to sampling Arabic coffee and dates.

Coffee lingo The coffee pot is called a dallah, while the cup, which is roughly the size of espresso cups, is called a finjaan. A coffee waiter is called a gahwaji.

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New in town From to-die-for menus to hot culinary talent, Concierge rounds up the best new dining venues

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

Seamlessly uniting an array of world cultures and attracting thousands of visitors every day, Dubai is a destination that has become famous for its wide-ranging restaurants and varied cuisines. The wealthy desert playground of the Middle East, visitors come from far and wide to sample city’s delectable menus, many of which are offered in Dubai’s high-end hotels. Carefully crafted by some of the greatest names in worldwide cuisine, including Gary Rhodes, Pierre Gagnaire and Nobu Matsuhisa, Dubai is now regarded as one of the greatest culinary destinations on the planet and barely a week goes by without the launch of a new luxury restaurant. In the last twelve months a variety of culinary craftsman have set up shop on these shores, further enhancing the gastro scene. Richard Sandoval of Maya fame has expanded his impressive restaurant portfolio with pan-Latin haunt Toro Toro which is located in Grosvenor House Dubai, while Gordon Ramsay protégés Scott Price and Nick Alvis have spread their wings and are now jointly at the helm of award-winning new restaurant Table9 by Nick and Scott. Meanwhile, celebrated chef, Phuong Mai, a Vietnamese national from French-influenced Hanoi, has been busy fashioning an authentic Vietnamese menu, with a French twist, for the recently opened Voi at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. Add to the equation the arrival of celebrity hot spot The Ivy, Chinese wonder Hakkasan and premier steak house Terra Firma and you can expect a diverse set of choices wherever you choose to dine. Concierge has taken the liberty of rounding up all the latest additions to the Dubai culinary scene and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

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voi

N e w re s t a ura nt s / T a ste

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T a s t e/N ew resta ura n ts

The Ivy, Dubai

S I G N AT U R E D I S H The Ivy is famous for its palatable dessert menu and the Scandinavian iced berries with hot white choco-late sauce is just one of the many sweet offerings.

Famed as the UK ‘meet & drink’ for A-listers, next to Buckingham Palace, The Ivy is probably the most photographed address in London. Fortunately, we’re pleased to report that while The Ivy Dubai has all the culinary dynamism and atmosphere of the London-based haunt, it boasts a more intimate feel than its celebrity-filled alma mater. Located at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, The Ivy, Dubai ticks all the boxes when it comes to décor, service and menu. The trademark wooden panels and stained-glass windows are in place, while the bill of fare reflects the traditionalism of the London branch. Delicious signature dishes such as seared foie gras, herb-roasted lamb rack and shepherd’s pie are unforgettable and the staff, who are known for their attention to detail, are on hand to give you a detailed report of any dishes on the menu. The mains are particularly mouth-watering, but we recommend you save some space for dessert because the crème brûlée, baked Alaska and banana sticky toffee pudding all pack quite a punch on the culinary scale. For those who would like to take a taste of The Ivy home, The Ivy Cookbook is available from the restaurant for AED195. Location: The Ivy, Dubai, Jumeirah Emirates Towers Try: Dover sole / Open: Saturday to Wednesday noon to midnight. Thursday and Friday 11.30am to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 3198767

Vôi Located at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on the edge of Palm Jumeirah, this elegantly decorated restaurant is the gem in Palm Jumeirah’s crown. From the glitzy mirrored columns to the flashy chandeliers, Vôi exudes old-style glamour and is reminiscent of French colonial Southeast Asia. For those who prefer to dine alfresco, check out the scenic outdoor terrace, which has charming views of the pool and beach. However, be aware these favoured spots are awarded on a first come first seated basis, so make sure you arrive early. Start your meal with a delicious Hanoi mojito. Made with sweet basil and lemongrass, it’s a fresh take on the original cocktail, but one that will undoubtedly be received well, thanks to its refreshing flavour. A fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, head chef Phuong Mai, who has over twenty five years of culinary experience, has done a marvellous job of crafting the extensive menu. If you’re new to Vietnamese dining, try out the Vôi Experience, which is a set menu of six dishes. The fried net rolls explode with flavour and the freshly made Vôi bread is unforgettable. Location: Vôi, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray / Try: French scallops Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 4530000

S I G N AT U R E D I S H Served as a starter, the marinated Scottish salmon springrolls are expertly prepared with fresh coriander, ginger, lime and a delicious raw mui sauce.

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Toro Toro Seasoned carnivores can enjoy a feast of meaty delights at celebrity chef, Richard Sandoval’s newest culinary spot, Toro Toro. Perched over two floors with a view of Dubai Marina, this Pan-Latin dining experience borrows tastes from a variety of locations including Buenos Aires and São Paulo. Choice mains include the rocoto releno, which is beef stuffed baby pepper, prepared with mozzarella cheese and rosemary potatoes; chorizo empanada - a pastry dish with beef chorizo and cheese; and the pollo estofad, which is braised chicken with green peas, carrots and chipotle-tomato sauce. The décor is as mesmerising as the menu. Striking burnt orange tones are complemented by the open kitchen and pillar candles, which add a touch of drama. An eye-catching floor-to-ceiling fireplace cultivates a warm and welcoming feeling, which goes a long way to explaining why Toro Toro is always such a hive of activity. After your meal don’t forget to take a seat by Cachaça Bar, where you can enjoy everything from the classic margaritas to the Latin favourites like Fresatini (vodka, strawberry and lime) and Latin Love (rum, mixed with raspberry, coconut and pineapple). Location: Toro Toro, Grosvenor House Dubai Try: Picadillo empandada Open: Saturday to Wednesday 7.30pm to 2am and Thursday. Friday 7.30pm to 3am / Tel: 04 3998888

S I G N AT U R E D I S H Meat eaters will be in their element with the sumptuous churrasco, which is prepared with wagyu rib eye, New York steak, lamb rack, chicken and lamb sausage.

An eye-catching floor-to-ceiling fireplace cultivates a warm and welcoming feeling, which goes a long way to explaining why Toro Toro is always such a hive of activity Terra Firma Steakhouse

S I G N AT U R E D I S H The grade 5 Australian wagyu beef is a served with vegetables, butter and sauce. We recommend the Terra Firma chunky chips, garlic butter and wild mushroom sauce.

Situated next to the picturesque Festival Marina on Dubai Creek and taking its spot at water level, the InterContinental Dubai Festival City’s newest restaurant, Terra Firma, serves succulent, juicy steaks as well as a variety of other delicious dishes. Specialising in Australian Blackmore wagyu, the only hardship about dining at Terra Firma is the tough time you’ll have making your order. Simply put, everything looks amazing. However, a great starting point is the tasty half dozen oysters, which are served with your choice of chilli, lemon parmesan or bread crumbs. Alternatively if you really feel like spoiling yourself, select the beluga caviar, which is served in 30g portions. For the main course the Blackmore wagyu striploin is a top choice, as is the grade five tenderloin. Those with a sweet tooth will find themselves in a world of indecision once more when it comes to dessert because both the baked American cheesecake and the warm apple and nut cobbler (served with flavoursome buttermilk ice-cream) promise to tickle the tastebuds. Finish off the night with shisha on the restaurant’s idyllic outdoor terrace. You can puff away on a selection of exotic flavours including apple, strawberry and blackberry. Location: Terra Firma Steakhouse, InterContinental Dubai Festival City Try: Grade 5 Australian wagyu beef / Open: Daily 7pm to midnight / Tel: 04 7011111

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Hakkasan Dubai

S I G N AT U R E D I S H

A lavish retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, award-winning Cantonese fine dining phenomenon Hakkasan is one of Dubai’s newest culinary haunts. Located at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, this elegant eatery has an appetising menu, which has been carefully fashioned by chef de cuisine, Pang Pin Lee. Pang, who previously worked at Hakkasn Abu Dhabi, has brought more than 10 year’s experience to the role and unsurprisingly the bill of fare is filled with delicious dishes such as grilled wagyu beef and Peking duck. T he opulent decor, which were designed by famed concept interior designers, Gilles & Boissier, feature two private-dining rooms and two semi-private sections, as well as the Ling-Ling lounge decorated, which is stylishly decorated in black, gold and white. An outside terrace surrounded by a wall of vegetation is also available for alfresco diners.

Cooked to perfection and served with a sweet hoi sin sauce, the pi pa duck is an aromatic delight that promises to awaken your senses.

Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers Try: Steamed dim sum platter Open: Daily 6pm to 2am / Tel: 04 3848484

Table 9 by Nick and Scott

S I G N AT U R E D I S H

Scott Price and Nick Alvis are the latest gastro geniuses to burst onto the Dubai food scene. Having already scooped a Best Newcomer prize within weeks of opening, the British-born chefs, who met in Claridges’ kitchen in 2004, are at the helm of Hilton Dubai Creek’s newest signature restaurant, Table 9 by Nick and Scott. Named after the number on the chef’s table, at which guests can opt for a menu exclusively designed for them by the heads of the kitchen, the new menu features 28 dishes with a European theme. With a markedly relaxed ambience – hand-pottered crockery and homemade menus are two of the trademarks – it’s impossible not to feel at home in this trendy Bur Dubai-based eatery. The menu is engaging with mouthwatering starters such as pig trotter served with a cucumber marmalade (tastier than it sounds), lobster with crackling and mango, and chicken with foie gras, hibiscus and prunes. The mains, which are all priced at AED100 per plate, are equally sumptuous. Try the seabass, which is served with winkles and oregano butter, or the quail, which comes with a delicious truffle terrine, artichoke and broccoli. A top-notch dessert menu includes old favourites with a new twist, such as liquorice meringue and clementine and Nick’s apple pie and custard. Raoul, the sommelier, is there to pair each course with tipples from the extensive wine menu, which includes 50 types of wine available by the glass. Ultimately, Table 9 by Nick and Scott offers elegant cuisine with a chilled-out setting, which is sure to be a recipe for success.

Just one of the many trademark offerings at Table 9 by Nick and Scott, the liquorice meringue with clementine dessert explodes with flavour as soon as it touches the lips.

Location: Table 9, Hilton Dubai Creek / Try: Pork belly Open: Sunday to Friday 6.30 to 11pm / Tel: 04 2271111

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{

my dubai Bloomingdale’s buyer, Fedaa Ghanem gives us the lowdown on how to have a stylish stay in Dubai

} 1 Souk Madinat Jumeirah 2 Burj Al Arab

I’m originally from Syria and moved to Dubai seven years ago. I was drawn to this part of the world by the energy and opportunities. It’s a place that is constantly challenging me. It took me a little while to become truly settled in Dubai. I travel a lot for my work, so in order to feel at home I had to get used to all the globetrotting, while also creating a comfortable home base. It took me two years to settle fully. My favourite memory of living in Dubai is my first Art Dubai festival, which is the largest annual contemporary art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia. It’s an excellent event which unites galleries from across the world. This year it will be held from March 21 to 24. When I’m not working I like to socialise with friends. One of my favourite places is Siddharta Lounge in Grosvenor House, Dubai. It’s a great spot to unwind after work. I also like the Thai Kitchen at Park Hyatt Dubai. When I have visitors in town I take them to Bastakiya. This is an area that shows the

essence of ‘old Dubai’. Afterwards we take a walk along Dubai Creek towards Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, which is incredibly scenic. For impressive views nothing beats At the Top, which is located on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa. There are thrilling sights of the city and photo opportunities aplenty. Dubai is a city that is synonymous with luxury so I would also suggest that visitors take a trip to the Burj Al Arab where you can book in for afternoon tea, followed by a wander through Souk Madinat Jumeirah, which is located close by. As well as shops where you can pick up souvenirs, there are also some lovely places to have lunch. As a retail destination, I think Dubai measures up to the other big shopping cities around the world, such as Milan, Paris, New York and London. In terms of brands, Dubai has managed to cover it all in record time. Mall of the Emirates and Fashion Avenue in The Dubai Mall have lots of offer when it comes to designer shopping.

When I have visitors in town I take them to Bastakiya. This is an area that shows the essence of ‘old Dubai’. Afterwards we take a walk along Dubai Creek

Bloomingdale’s is located in The Dubai Mall

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the guide

shop / taste / experience / discover

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

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

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

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

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

04 3685140

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am

to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Nakheel Harbour & Tower Map reference: A1 MALL OF THE EMIRATES

04 4099000

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

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

Downtown Dubai BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3198999

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

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

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

04 5154000

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

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

BURJUMAN

04 3520222

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

04 3461462

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

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

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 LAMCY PLAZA

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

PALM STRIP

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

04 3622222

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

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

THE DUBAI MALL

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

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

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

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

04 3494444

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

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

04 3418020

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

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

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T HE GUI D E / S HOP

WAFI

04 3244555

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

SOUVENIR

IDEAS

800 6422

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

Timings: 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, home-furnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

04 3418020

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

04 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 Ikea and Marks & Spencer.

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

04 4234666

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

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LABEL STABLE

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

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

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

Timings: Noon to 7pm every second Friday of the month Metro: First Gulf Bank Map reference: C2 GOLD SOUK Comprising more than 300 retailers, this traditional souk is one of Dubai’s oldest trading areas and one of its biggest attractions.

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

SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3668888

Featuring 75 boutique shops and craft stalls set in a bazaar environment overlooking the scenic waterways of the adjacent hotel complex.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1 SPICE SOUK Brimming with sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the Spice Souk is a feast for the senses.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1

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

INDOOR GOLD SOUK

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

04 3627500

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

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

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

MARKETS

04 3244555

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

Timings: 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 popular market held in Dubai Festival City, brings together artists and craftsmen.

04 3627011

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

800 33232

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

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

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

art galleries

CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY

04 4250400

An area of 4,000 sq m dedicated to international contemporary art in the heart of Gate Village, DIFC.

1X1 Art Gallery

04 3411287

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ART SAWA

04 3408660

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 art select

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

GALLERY 76

04 3470209

04 3444398

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

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

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

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

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

04 3469902

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

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

AYYAM GALLERY

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm. Closed Fri

Map reference: C2 BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

04 4257888

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

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

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

to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

marsam mattar

04 3988331

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

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

CARBON 12

04 3477883

Features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

050 4644392

Timings: Sat to Thu,

11.30am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2

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

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

04 4392395

04 3450900

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

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

04 3230820

pro- art gallery

One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art. to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: B2 OPERA GALLERY

04 3230909

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

satellite

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

1 3

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

04 3488797

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

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

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

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

the mojo gallery

04 3477388

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

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 3475050

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

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

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

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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.

Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 5pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 per person

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

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

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

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

04 3666546

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES 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).

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

dinner cruise

04 3536666

Water

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

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

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

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

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

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

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

04 2253312

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

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

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 7am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

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

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

04 3531862

04 3937151

AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE

04 3937139

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

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

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

Attractions

FIRST YACHT

04 3754148

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

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED200

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

04 2340812

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are just some of the packages available.

OASIS PALM TOURISM

LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

Cruising

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

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

Individual hotels and tour operators can also organise pleasure cruises on request

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED150

NET TOURS DUBAI

per person

04 2628889

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

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 7am Guide Price:From AED2,500 DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3511117

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

PLANET TRAVEL & TOURS

per adult and AED90 per child

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

04 2628889

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477 Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275

VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

04 3572200

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

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

04 2999339

Operates throughout Dubai and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi.

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

04 3366643

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

ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

Call individual tour operators for times and prices

Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED765 per person. City tour AED9,000 for five people (45 minutes)

ARABIAN ADVENTURES

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

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 and light aircraft operator in Dubai.

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: AED275 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

04 3034888

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

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

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

DESERT RANGERS TOURS & ADVENTURE SPORTS

FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

04 3572233

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

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5 6

04 2995155

04 2682880

From a Hummer safari taking in an authentic Bedouin camp, to a trek through the Hajar Mountains.

Flying

Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED175

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

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

04 2833335

Desert tours

800 2080

ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS

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

DREAMDAYS

OASIS PALM TOURISM

AED80. Children from AED60

Timings: Daily boarding at

04 3993333

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

Expect innovative desert trips, tours between Dubai and Muscat and adventurous expeditions.

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

CLUB MINA

04 6028888

Timings: From 8.45am onwards Guide Price: Adults from

Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner. 8pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11.30pm Guide Price: AED330

04 3357676

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

22/12/2011 16:17

discover dubai from the sea

www.f1yacht.com

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

b r av o

Luxury

car

r e n ta l s

http://www.bravorentacardubai.com

T HE GUI D E / E XPE R IE NCE

FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY

09 2224747

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

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

Paintballing

(see Sports) DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

04 4361400/04 4361422

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

lessons AED960 SEAWINGS

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

04 8832999

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

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

ULTIMATE CHARTER

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

04 2854949

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

Shooting

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

Skydiving IFLYDUBAI

04 2316292

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

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.

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

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

adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

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

800 28843867

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

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

02 4968001/ www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com

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

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

FAMILY FUN

MAGIC PLANET

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free

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

(see Marine adventures)

ACTION ADVENTURE

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

04 4297949

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

Swimming with dolphins

800 LEISURE (5347873)

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

Timings: From 2pm to

06 5383224/050 2032288

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per

LITTLE EXPLORERS

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

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

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.

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

Arts & Crafts

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

BEAD PALACE

KIDZANIA

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

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

04 3952771

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

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.

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.

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EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

JAM JAR

04 3417303

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

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

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

Guide price: from AED250

per person

NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 3380201

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

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 4485200

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

OUTSIDE DUBAI

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

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.

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

Edutainment

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

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

WILD WADI

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge

04 3241222

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

SPLASHLAND

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010111

(7,303 yards, par-72)

adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

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

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

Waterparks

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

AQUA PLAY

CHILDREN’S CITY

04 3340808

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’, ‘Galactica’ and the skate park.

Timings: Sat to Wed

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

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

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

Ice skating

10am to sunset Guide price: AED200 for adults,AED165 for children under 1.2 metres

(see Sports)

DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY

04 4261030

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

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

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

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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.

8 10

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

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

Green fees: Majlis Course

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

21/12/2011 09:25

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu 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

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.

(6,473 yards, par-72)

Timings: Sat to Fri 2 to 10pm

Earth Course: Fire Course:

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

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

04 3905600

(7,396 yards, par-72) One of the most luxurious golf 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

04 3759999

Jumeirah Golf Estates

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

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

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

04 2950516

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

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

Sports

04 4068825

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED750 per hour onwards DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2054646

Archery

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

HATTA FORT HOTEL

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

04 8523211

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

for four hours. Longer trips are available as required

Timings:7am to 6pm Guide price: Sun to Thu AED30 for 30 minutes and Fri AED50 for 30 minutes

04 8836000

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.

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA Take a group fishing trip into the Gulf and make the catch of the day. Equipment, bait and light snacks provided.

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 3993333

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: An hour-long trip with up to six people costs from AED700

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573084

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

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

04 3254975/050 1002477

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

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From 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.

Timings: Mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: AED1,750 for four hours. Longer trips are available as required

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED70 for 30 minutes with unlimited shots

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expe r ience/THE GUIDE

Horseracing

04 8327171

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

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

Horseriding

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

04 3618111

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

Timings: Desert hack 6

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

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

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

Timings: Lessons from

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

04 8836000

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

Timings: Tue to Sun 7am

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

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

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

riding from AED200

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

Ice Skating

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED400

AL NASR LEISURELAND

FORMULA ONE

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

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

04 3941669

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

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

04 3989146

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

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573084

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

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

DUBAI ICE RINK

YAS Racing School

for four hours

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

Shooting

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

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

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

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

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

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

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

04 3618111

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

050 5592131

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

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

Mini Golf

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 8523221

DESERT RANGERS

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

04 3402408

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JAN12.indd 114

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

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

30 minutes

114

02 5629050

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

Guide price: AED6,400

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

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 SKI DUBAI

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

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

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

Guide price:

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

21/12/2011 09:26

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

Hotel outlets & promotions

Al Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

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

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

04 3034222 Desert

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

Al Manzil Hotel

04 4285888

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

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites

04 3211111

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

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim For a delicious selection of Thai food book a table at Pai Tai. Prices start at AED80 a dish Al Fayrooz Lounge – Afternoon tea Al Hambra – Spanish Arboretum – International Khaymat Al Bahar – International Koubba Bar – Cocktail bar MJ'S – Steakhouse Magnolia – Vegetarian Pai Thai – Thai Pierchic – Seafood

Amwaj Rotana

Burj Al Arab

Dubai Marina

Jumeirah

04 4282000

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

Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club

04 3663000 Dubai

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

Armani Hotel Dubai

04 8883888

Downtown Dubai 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 4262626

The Palm Jumeirah This landmark property 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

This charming desert retreat offers consistently good food most notably at Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq – Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Pizzeria Le Dune – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic-themed bar

04 3017777

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

Crowne Plaza Dubai

800 276963

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

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

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

04 2625555 Deira

Welcome the Year of the Dragon at Spice Island's Chinese New Year celebrations, from January 15 to 25. Prices start at AED179 per person for a Chineseinspired all-you-can-eat buffet. Doors open at 6.30pm Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

04 7012222

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

Belgian Beer Café – European Eclipse – Cocktails Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

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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 8523211 Hatta

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

Hilton Dubai Creek

04 2271111 Deira Desert Palm Dubai

04 3238888 Desert

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

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

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 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

Head to Issimo Bar & Lounge for pints of draught beer for AED20

Al Aqah Beach

Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Cocktails Table9 by Nick and Scott – European

09 2449888

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

Grand Hyatt Dubai

04 3171234 Oud Metha

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

Grand Millennium Dubai

04 4299999 Al Barsha

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

Grosvenor House, Dubai

04 3998888

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

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

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

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

04 3234333

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

hyatt regency dubai & galleria

04 3172222 Deira

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

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

04 3324444 Zabeel

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

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 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 Try 'The Tomahawk Challenge' at Terra Firma Steakhouse. If, within 60 minutes, you can devour a 2kg Tomahawk rib-eye steak, together with 300g of thick-cut chunky chips and 300g of bèarnaise sauce, you dine for free. If not, the price is AED690 per person Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – 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

04 3198088

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

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

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

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

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

04 3480000

Head to Latitude on January 23 for a Chinese New Year celebration. Savour the flavours of a fabulous international buffet with a wide variety of Cantonese specialities. Prices start at AED275 per person 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 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

117

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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 3165550

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

Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers

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

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

Metropolitan Hotel Dubai

04 3994444

04 3430000

Sheikh Zayed Road

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

04 3993333

Trade Centre

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

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000 Al Barsha

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

04 3320000

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

09 2449000

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

Novotel World Trade Centre

04 2959171

The Red Lion features a beer garden with regular barbecues

Fujairah

Metropolitan Hotel Deira

Metropolitan Palace Hotel

04 2270000 Deira

Check out Lebanese restaurant Al Diwan, featuring an Arabic singer, band and belly dancer Al Diwan – Arabic Al Shindagah – International Downtown Bar & Grill – Steakhouse

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

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

04 4440111 Deira

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

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 4329430

Jumeirah Beach Residence Tuck into a quentissentially English Sunday roast at The Talk. Freshly carved joints, live grill stations and classic Brit desserts such as apple crumble are all part of the fun. Running from 6.30 to 11pm, prices start at AED165 per person

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

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

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

One&Only The Palm

04 4401010

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

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.

The Talk – International West Beach Bistro – Gastro bar

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB JAN12.indd 118

21/12/2011 09:56

PARK HYATT DUBAI

04 6021234 Garhoud

Partial to a green curry? Hit The Thai Kitchen on Wednesday nights. For just AED220 per person, diners can feast on an extensive list of dishes served on an unlimited basis

SMOKE SIGNALS

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

04 4286888

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

ROSE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

04 3230111

Esca Restaurant – International

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK

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

04 2227171 Deira

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Tuck into authentic Japanese cuisine at Sumibiya or try traditional English food at The Pub. Whatever your preference, with 11 dining spots you'll be spoilt for choice at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

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

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

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB JAN12.indd 120

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

QAMARDEEN HOTEL

Downtown Dubai

CONCIERGE WEB AD-STRIP 2010.indd 1

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

Kris With A View – Asian Le Metro – All-day dining The Grandstand Bar – Sports bar

04 4502000

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

Oud Metha

For ladies' night, gals and their pals should head to Grandstand on Mondays from 6 to 11pm. Ladies receive unlimited classic and flavoured mojitos

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DOWNTOWN

Deira

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

04 3149888

Bur 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

Sheikh Zayed Road

RAFFLES DUBAI

04 3771111

d rience expe p o h s &taste

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL & TOWERS

04 3080000

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

PARK REGIS KRIS KIN, DUBAI

staisycover

RADISSON ROYAL HOTEL DUBAI

ROYAL ASCOT HOTEL

04 3520900 Bur Dubai

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

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

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI

04 3438888

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

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

04 2281111

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

SHERATON JUMEIRAH BEACH RESORT & TOWERS

04 3995533

Dubai Marina Visit The Peacock for reliable Chinese cuisine and impeccable service. Meanwhile, Ciao Ristorante serves traditional Italian dishes and Palm Garden dishes up international cuisine Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International The Peacock Chinese Restaurant – Chinese

SOFITEL DUBAI JUMEIRAH BEACH

04 4484848

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

TAJ PALACE HOTEL

04 2232222 Deira

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

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.

21/12/2011 09:51 22/12/2011 14:48

Race Starts: 14:00 on Friday, 13 January Entry: FREE to Grandstand & Paddock Location: Dubai Autodrome

T A ST E/THE GUIDE

The Address Downtown Dubai

The Address Dubai Marina

Downtown Dubai

Dubai Marina

04 4368888

Dine on a cosmopolitan blend of Asian, Indian, Arabic and Mediteranean cuisine at Fazaris' Vintage Brunch. Every Friday from 12.30 to 4pm, AED290 buys you all you can eat, as well as unlimited soft drinks Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Ladies, keep your diaries free on Tuesdays because poolside bar Cabana will be serving special house beverages to ladies for only AED25 per tipple Amatista – Lounge bar Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

04 4238888

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.

Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Afternoon tea Mazina – International Shades – Al Fresco dining Yellow Lounge – Bar lounge

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB JAN12.indd 122

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

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

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills

04 3994141

Dubai Marina Visit Bussola for possibly the best pizza in town

16 17

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

Nineteen – European The Academy – International

Towers Rotana Dubai

The Fairmont Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 3438000

04 3325555

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

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

04 2659888 Deira

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

The Meydan

04 3813333 Meydan

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

The monarch dubai

04 5018888

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

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

Traders Hotel Dubai

04 4341320

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

04 3329260

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

04 3666730

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

04 2329077

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

04 3666730

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

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

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

Souk Al Bahar

The Mango Tree

04 4267313

Souk Al Bahar 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

The Palace – The Old Town

04 4287888

Downtown Dubai

AQUARA

04 3627900

Dubai Marina Yacht Club

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

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

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

West 14th

04 4477601

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

at.mosphere

04 8883828 Burj Khalifa

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

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

04 3994000

Dubai Marina

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

carluccio's

villa rotana

Cit y dining

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

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 4230903

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

04 3666730

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

04 3216111

For delicious afternoon tea, book a spot at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm you can enjoy a selection of tasty pastries, sumptuous sandwiches and tantalising teas. Prices start at AED125 per person and for AED235 you can enjoy a glass of Champagne

122

DIFC

Buy any beverage on the No.5 Lounge & Bar menu and enjoy a second one on the house. The deal runs daily from 6 to 7.30pm

Sheikh Zayed Road

ARABIC TASTE

BarZar

04 3722222

Get your feet tapping at Blends every Thursday and Friday. It's free cosmos for ladies from 8 to 11pm

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

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

22/12/2011 14:49

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

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

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

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

JaNuaRY 2012 | issue 89

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THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

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LO C AL KN OW L E D GE / T HE G U IDE

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Learn the lingo and know your do’s and don’ts The lingo It’s always good to have a few phrases on the tip of your tongue. They will help ease along negotiations and are a great way to ingratiate yourself with the local community. Yes – Na’am No – La Please – Min fadlak (to a man) / Min fadliki (to a woman) Thank you – Shukran Hello – Marhaba Hello (in reply) – Marhabtayn Goodbye – Ma’assalaama Common Phrases Peace be upon you (when greeting someone) – As-salaam alaykom Reply – Wa alaykom salaam Welcome – Ahlan wa sahlan Welcome (in reply) – Ahlan bekum God willing – Inshallah Slowly, slowly – Shway, shway How much? (cost) – Bekam? How many? – Kam Numbers 0 ......................................... sifr 1 .................................. waahad 2 .................................. ithnayn 3 ................................. thalatha 4 ................................... araba’a 5 .................................. khamsa 6 ......................................... sita 7 ..................................... saba’a 8 ............................ thamaanya 9 ...................................... tiss’a 10 .................................. ashara 100 .................................. miya 1000 .................................... alf

Dress code For t hose who haven’t visited t he Middle East before, knowing what to wear can be a bit of a mystery. The general rule in Dubai is to cover up a little if you don’t want to be stared at. Tops that are too low, or skirts that are a little bit high, may offend. You’ll find that in the summer months you’ll want to stay as cool as possible and will naturally turn to long cotton

tops and trousers/skirts. Although it may be accepted in other parts of the world, it’s not advisable for men to remove their shirts in public places as this can cause offence.

the rest. Tipping them is discretionary but most people tend to give a few dirhams extra. Supermarket baggers, bag carriers and windscreen washers at petrol stations are generally given Dhs2 to Dhs5.

Photography Being an Islamic country, it is best to ask permission when taking pictures of local residents and women in particular. Tourist photography is usually welcomed, although pictures inside some establishments, such as retail stores is not permitted. Pictures of military buildings, the ports and airport should not be taken.

Opening hours Shops and establishments may close in the afternoon, particularly the smaller ones around town. Opening hours are generally from 8.30am to 1pm, and 4 to 8pm, or later. Main malls will remain open throughout the day and tend to close around 10pm.

Tipping It is customary to tip when you feel you have received good service, although it is not obligatory. Gratuities to staff at hotels are at your discretion. Restaurant menus should list prices inclusive of the service charge, but some venues may note this separately on the bill. Whether you’d like to leave an extra tip is up to you. The usual tip is 10% of the bill. Taxi drivers often give you part of your change and wait to see if you ask for

Credit cards All major credit cards are accepted in main hotels, stores and larger shops but in traditional souks, bargaining power is better when paying in cash.

Ramadan The holy month of Ramadan occurs in the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. During this time, Muslims fast during daylight hours and people are expected not to eat, drink or smoke in public as a mark of respect. Restaurants are typically closed during fasting hours, although some hotel restaurants remain open. Shopping malls are open in the morning but a few may close in the afternoon, opening again in the evening after the sun goes down, often around 7pm. There is no live music played throughout Ramadan and alcohol is only served after 7pm in selected bars and restaurants.

business. Local women won’t usually offer their hand and will nod and smile in greeting instead • I f you are entering someone’s home, you may be asked to remove your shoes • Showing the soles of your feet is a rude gesture, so take care when crossing your legs that the sole of your foot is not pointing towards someone

Drinking water The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai but the taste may take some getting used to. Bottled water is priced very reasonably and is readily available.

Alcohol It’s possible to drink within hotels and other licensed complexes in Dubai. Licences are also granted to some major sporting and leisure events. Alcohol is tolerated but you should refrain from appearing inebriated in public as there are severe penalties for drunken behaviour.

Currency The monetary unit in Dubai is the UAE dirham which is divided into 100 fils. Notes come in denominations of Dhs5, Dhs10, Dhs20, Dhs50, Dhs100, Dhs200, Dhs500, Dhs1000 and Dhs2000.

Manners Dubai is a modern, forward-thinking city, but there are still some do’s and don’ts to be aware of: • Don’t stare at local women and avoid looking them in the eye • S hak ing hands is a complicated

E XC H A NGE R AT E GBP 1 = AED 5.8 US$ 1 = AED 3.7 EU 1 = AED 4.8 *Approximate and subject to fluctuation

125

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE_DXB_JAN12.indd 125

22/12/2011 15:35

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