Concierge Dubai Magazine, October 2011 by npimedia fz llc

OCTOber 2011 | issue 86

dubai edition

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE Licensed by international Media Production Zone

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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: Dubai Mall 04 339 8528 • Mirdif City Centre 04 284 3604 Abu Dhabi Mall 02 6504250 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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Longines Longines supports supports the the Andre Andre Agassi Agassi Foundation Foundation

Elegance is an attitude

“It’s “It’s time time to to give give aa little little bit bit of of your your time time to to others.” others.”

Andre Andre Agassi Agassi

Visit Visit the the Longines Longines Boutiques Boutiques at: at: Dubai Mall 04 339 Dubai Mall 04 339 8528 8528 • • Mirdif Mirdif City City Centre Centre 04 04 284 284 3604 3604 Abu Abu Dhabi Dhabi Mall Mall 02 02 6504250 6504250 Also Also available available at at Rivoli Rivoli stores stores throughout throughout the the UAE. UAE. Call Call toll toll free free 800-RIVOLI 800-RIVOLI or or visit visit www.rivoligroup.com www.rivoligroup.com Adv_AA8_AD3_conceirge moon.indd 1 Adv_AA8_AD3_conceirge moon.indd 1

www.longines.com www.longines.com

The The Longines Longines Master Master Collection Collection

9/13/11 11:10 AM 9/13/11 11:10 AM

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

Adv_AA8_AD3_conceirge moon.indd 1

www.longines.com

The Longines Master Collection

9/13/11 11:10 AM

Меха из Италии

Souk Madinat Jumeirah | Deira Tel: 04 4548778 Tel: 04 2270544 www.braschidubai.com

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FOUNDED IN 1989, BRASCHI IS NOW CONSIDERED A GLOBAL LEADER IN THE FUR FASHION INDUSTRY

PU RE PERFU M E. A N EW DENSITY

hermes.com

OCTOber 2011 / Issue 86 / 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 84 partner hotels throughout the city and you can also look out for the Abu Dhabi edition when visiting the capital, distributed in 45 hotels. With growing numbers of visitors from China, Russia and other Arab countries, bespoke Concierge editions are also produced in-language for these guests. Concierge reflects the interests and status of our audience – international leisure and business visitors who want to explore and enjoy a destination renowned for its high-end shopping, world-class restaurants and unique experiences. Concierge is your reference for all that Dubai has to offer during your stay. Whether it is luxury shopping and award-winning cuisine or exciting activities and sights to see, we have it all covered in four distinct sections: Shop, Taste, Experience and Discover. Our upfront Essentials showcase the top events this month and vital visitor experiences, while informed features provide an invaluable insight into the Middle East’s most cosmopolitan destination. The Guide completes Concierge, offering a comprehensive companion to Dubai, with detailed information covering the four sections. To make the most of your time in this exciting destination, just turn to the comprehensive listings in The Guide and find the latest up-to-date information at your fingertips. Further information can also be found at www.conciergedubai.com or by consulting your hotel concierge. Dubai is a dynamic and exciting destination. Enjoy it fully with Concierge.

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

Concierge magazine is also available in Russian/ Arabic/Chinese language. Please request a copy from the concierge desk in the hotel lobby.

Журнал «Консьерж» также издается на русском. Вы можете попросить экземпляр журнала у консьерж-службы в вестибюле гостиницы.

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

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In focus Image: Courtesy of Rivoli Subject: Breguet watch A shopper’s paradise, Dubai has long been considered the destination of choice for fivestar travellers with a passion for retail therapy. The city is home to a plethora of shopping malls, designer stores and one-off boutiques. Second only to London in terms of brand availability, the emirate rivals great retail havens such as New York and Paris. For the lowdown on where to head for your next shopping spree, check out our Dubai Shopping Guide on page 40. With everything from high-end haute couture to luxe jewellery labels, this definitive guide gives you everything you need for a retail experience you’ll never forget.

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contents OCTOber 2011 / Issue 86

16/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

22/SNAPSHOT Into the blue at Dubai Aquarium

25/SHOP 26/JEWELS IN THE SAND Bold, eye-catching and elaborate Arabic jewellery

32/MADE FOR MEN The latest trends and styles for autumn/winter 2011

38/THRILL OF THE CASE

Get carried away with luxury luggage

40/MALL TRAWL Your definitive guide to Dubai’s shopping havens

50/HERE COMES THE SUN Protect your skin and prolong your tan

53/TASTE 54/ASIAN FLAVOUR Try out the city’s best Asian restaurants

62/JUST DESSERTS If you haven’t tried Middle Eastern sweets, now is the time

64/IN THE EUROZONE

Dubai’s European restaurants are nothing short of world class

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contents OCTOber 2011 / Issue 86

71/EXPERIENCE 72/SAFARI AT SUNDOWN Escape across the vast dunes of the Arabian Desert

80/HAMMAM HEAVEN

Indulge your senses at Dubai’s most opulent spas

82/FLAT-OUT FERRARI FUN

Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the ride

91/DISCOVER 92/CAMEL CULTURE

Meet the fast-moving ships of the desert

96/STARS & ’SCOPES Explore the cultural significance of astronomy

98/TOURIST TRAIL Enjoy a walking tour of the Dubai Creek

100/MY DUBAI

Damas sales manager Mustafa Wadaa shares his pearls of wisdom

Q 103/the Guide Comprehensive listings to help plan the perfect stay

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essentials

Brought to you in association with

OCTOber

Discover Dubai Creek

A million miles away from modern Dubai, the Creek is a cultural melting pot and your chance to see a more traditional side of the city. From the dhows, laden with cargo, to the smaller abras (water taxis) that ferry passengers to-and-fro, the Creek is the heart of old Dubai and the bustling waters are what keep it beating.

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EVENTS IN BRIEF E VA L O N G O R I A V I S I T S D U B A I October 1 Have your autograph books at the ready, because Hollywood glamourpuss, Eva Longoria, is dropping into Bloomingdale’s in The Dubai Mall to introduce the new autumn/winter ‘New York New York’ campaign. For more information call 04 3505333.

CIRQUE DU SOUQ October 7 to 8 Cirque du Soleil fans are in for a treat as Cirque du Souq arrives at The Madinat Jumeirah this month. An Arabian-inspired extravaganza of aerial acts, acrobatic performances and death-defying dances, this one is not for the faint of heart. Tickets cost from AED185. For details visit www.madinattheatre.com

GITEX

EXPERIENCE Dubai Fountain

Marvel at the world’s tallest dancing fountain as it shoots water to heights of more than 500 feet (150 metres). This spectacular attraction performs to world music including Con te partirò (Time to Say Goodbye) sung by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. Spellbinding views of the fountain can also be enjoyed from the surrounding restaurants and cafés. Be sure to reserve a table or arrive early to secure frontrow seats. Location: Downtown Dubai between the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall. Time: Every 30 minutes from 6 to 10pm Sun to Wed and 6 to 11pm Thu to Sat. Price: Free of charge. Contact: Call 800 DUBAI MALL (800 38224 6255) or visit www.thedubaimall.com and click on ‘Entertain’.

October 8 to 15 Think duty free is the only place to bag bargains? Think again. Gitex, the biggest consumer electronics sales bonanza, is your one-stop-shop for gadgets, gizmos and all things techy. Make your way to the Airport Expo from 11am to 11pm. Entry is AED30. Children under five go for free.

S A N DA N C E

EXPERIENCE Camel polo

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

October 14 Musos should hit Nasimi Beach from 2pm to 2am for the fivestar music festival, Sandance. An acoustic set from The Verve’s Richard Ashcroft will be followed by live shows from Chicane and David Morales. Tickets cost from AED200. For more information visit www.atlantisthepalm.com

C H R I S T I E ’S A U C T I O N October 25 to 26 Planning to add to your art collection? Or maybe you just fancy playing art buff for the night. Either way, head to the Godolphin Ballroom of the Jumeirah Emirates Towers from 7pm. Christie’s Dubai is holding an auction for a variety of renowned Middle Eastern artists including Mahmoud Said, Fateh Moudarres and Parviz Tanavoli. For more information visit www.christies.com

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Experience A day of spa pampering

Don’t know where Swedish starts and shiatsu ends? A few days in Dubai will fix that. With an array of first-rate spas throughout the city’s top hotels, Dubai is the perfect place to indulge in some five-star pampering. Whether you’re keen on massages, facials, scrubs or wraps, there’s a treatment to suit every type of traveller. Call individual hotels for details. Turn to page 106 for a list of properties, most with in-house spa facilities.

Shop

Old-style souks Pick up traditional souvenirs such as Arabic lanterns, dates, calligraphy and Persian carpets in the air-conditioned comfort of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Souk Al Bahar (above) and Khan Murjan, three recently built, old-style markets. With meandering pathways and charming shops and stalls, the souks are located in Umm Suqeim, Downtown Dubai and Oud Metha respectively. Turn to page 105 for more information.

Discover Marine life

Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and marvel at more than 33,000 aquatic animals including rays and sand tiger sharks in the 10-million-litre tank, the largest suspended aquarium in the world. Take a closer look from the aquarium tunnel, or check out the Creepy Crawlies section. Location: The Dubai Mall. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Price: AED50. Contact: 04 4485200.

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Ask the concierge J o s e p h E l i n o H e r r e r o D av i d, c h i e f c o n c i e r g e at T h e Pa l a c e – T h e O l d T o w n o f f e r s h i s t o p r e c o m m e n dations for experiencing D u b a i ’s f i v e - s ta r l u x u ry

TASTE

Ladies’ night It’s good news for the girls because ladies’ nights are as much part of Dubai life as shopping and shawarmas. Most bars and restaurants throughout the city’s hotels offer discounts to ladies and if you plan your week carefully, you can kick up your heels seven nights a week. Turn to page 106 for a list of promotions throughout October.

Anyone who wants to experience the glitz and glamour of Dubai should go on a city tour and see Dubai’s modern achievements as well as its history. A visit to Bastakiya, the Dubai Museum, Heritage Village and the old souks is charming and creates understanding. Guest can complete the tour in the comfort of a private limousine, with an informative tour guide. Following the tour, I would suggest a visit to the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck, At the Top, to enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the tallest building in the world. A delicious lunch can be enjoyed at the highest restaurant in the world, At.mosphere on the 122nd floor. Following lunch, a visit to The Dubai Mall is a must as this offers a plethora of high-end retail options. The Dubai Mall is home to Bloomingdale’s where guests can enjoy a complimentary personalised fashion advisory service. Elie Saab is a revered choice for bespoke couture and through our partnership with Boutique 1, guests can enjoy a complimentary pickup and drop off to and from their stores. If time allows, a luxury sunset cruise on a 40-foot yacht is the perfect ending to an action-packed day taking in sights such as The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and The World islands. Private charters can be arranged from the Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

Concierge of the Year awards

Experience At the Top

A highlight of any trip to Dubai is a journey to At The Top, the observation deck in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. From the 124th floor, expect panoramic views across the emirate as well as a multi-media presentation on the history of Dubai. Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Price: Dated and timed tickets AED100 adults, AED75 children aged four to 12. Immediate entry AED400. Contact: 800 AT THE TOP (800 28843867) or visit www.burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck

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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SHOP

LOOKING AHEAD

Fashion Avenue Prepare for some serious credit card bashing because the Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall is your onestop-shop for all things fabulous. Check out top designers including Shanghai Tang (pictured), Gucci, Lanvin and Emilio Pucci. Bottom line, 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.

FOTO WEEKEND What: The 3rd annual Gulf Photo Plus weekend. Budding photographers have the opportunity to sharpen their skills and take tips from international snappers. When: November 16 to 19 Where: Dubai Knowledge Village Contact: www.gulfphotoplus.com

D U B A I I N T E R N AT I O N A L J E W E L L E RY W E E K What: Girls, have your credit cards at the read. This is the region’s largest showcase of jewellery, gold and precious metals, diamonds and coloured stones. When: November 10 to 13 Where: Dubai World Trade Centre Contact: Visit www.jewelleryshow.com

D U B A I R U G BY S E V E N S What: Sixteen of the best international rugby Sevens teams battle it out in front of thousands of die-hard fans. When: December 1 to 3 Where: The Sevens Stadium Contact: Visit www.dubairugby7s.com

TASTE Shisha

FA U LT Y T O W E R S : THE DINING EXPERIENCE What: An interactive comedy dining experience with manic Basil, domineering Sybil and hapless waiter Manuel. When: November 4 to 5 Where: Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa Contact: Call 04 3116536

Immerse yourself in local culture by smoking flavoured tobacco through a shisha or water pipe. This highly sociable pastime sees groups of friends meet and share flavours such as double apple, grape and mint. More unusual varieties include raspberry cream, apple cinnamon and mango tango as served at The Ritz-Carlton Dubai. Location: Served at most hotels and at many cafés. Price: Approximately AED60.

D U B A I I N T E R N AT I O N A L MOTOR SHOW What: The largest and most established motoring event in the Middle East, showcasing global brands and connecting the global automotive industry with motoring enthusiasts and professionals from across the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia. When: November 10 to 14 Where: Dubai International Convention & Exhibtion Centre Contact: Call 04 3086354 or visit www.dubaimotorshow.com

D U B A I A I R S H O W 2011 What: The foremost aerospace event in the Middle East and the fastest growing airshow in the world When: November 13 to 17 Where: Airport Expo Contact: Visit www.dubaiairshow.aero

SHOP

Montblanc Princess Grace de Monaco collection Luxury brand Montblanc has taken its cue from famed fashionista the late (and great) Princess Grace of Monaco. The new collection consists of fine jewellery, timepieces and writing instruments and is the embodiment of Princess Grace’s chic, feminine style. Location: Montblanc at The Dubai Mall. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 04 4340300.

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shop Louis Vuitton

Paying homage to women who embraced a modern era, Louis Vuitton’s Art Deco Diva collection features silk, feathers and tweed for a modernist, glamorous look. The style of the ’20s and ’30s still provides inspiration for today’s fashion, with elegant yet practical cuts. Visit Louis Vuitton in Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall and BurJuman.

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JE W E L S / s hop

Jewels in the sand With elaborate designs and brightly coloured precious stones, Arabic jewellery is as bold and eye-catching as it is expensive

Q W o r d s b y K at h r y n R o b e r t s

Awash with world-renowned, international retailers, Dubai is a magnet for anyone looking to buy expensive jewellery. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a dazzling diamond necklace, statement solitaire ring, a jewelencrusted brooch or set of precious earrings, there is a huge range on offer and something to suit all tastes. Simple and more understated western designs are in abundance, as well as elaborate Indian styles. But the most opulent and lavish are the ones designed for the Arab market. Jihad Sibai, brand manager at Dubai-based Levant Jewellery, says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;These are exceptional, handcrafted pieces that are usually personalised and made of 18- or 21-carat gold or 925 silver. They tend to feature precious stones such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires and come in elegant jewellery sets.â&#x20AC;? Sets usually comprise a necklace, ring, earrings and bracelet and sometimes a matching watch. The defining feature of Arabic jewellery is its bold design. Pieces are usually bright and colourful as they incorporate coloured precious stones and yellow gold. They are also large in size and sets can take two to three months to make.

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sho p/ JEWELS

A special occasion

Particularly lavish sets are worn at weddings both by the bride and guests. They are also worn to important parties, family get-togethers and to celebrations during Eid Al Fitr, the three-day festival that marks the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Raed Baker, chairman at Liali Jewellery, explains, “Weddings are definitely an occasion to flaunt a lavish set of jewellery, either as a guest or as the bride. “Rings are important in Arabic jewellery as the fingers are always exposed. The traditional diamond ‘diblas’ are usually used as wedding bands. These comprise a large single ring that is broad and ornate or can also be a set of two rings, one studded with a large centre stone or a cluster of stones and the other a touch band that complements the design of the main ring.”

1 Damas Jewellery (previous page) 2-6 Damas Jewellery 4

Damas, one of the Middle East’s leading jewellers, headquartered in Dubai, has more than 100 years’ experience in designing, crafting and selling jewellery. Raj Sahai, the company’s director of retail, says, “We make some pieces at our manufacturing facility in Dubai, while others come from suppliers. “We make some of the exclusive and one-off products totally by hand and a lot of time and effort goes into making the design.” The company is particularly attentive to detail with an internal design

committee that discusses ideas and trends while research into consumer insights and gold prices is carried out. It takes Damas approximately six months to create a product from conceptualisation to the final stage during which time it must pass five layers of quality control standards before it goes on display in-store. The layers are: design, casting, polishing, setting and final sign off. The company also scans every piece of jewellery with an X-ray machine to accurately establish the percentage of gold content.

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AL QASR +971 4 4243892

ATLANTIS +971 4 4226717

JUMEIRAH BEACH +971 4 3488102

ZABEEL SARAY +971 4 4357558

SHO P/ JEWELS

Money talks

At Liali, most exclusive pieces are designed and manufactured in Italy and the Far East. However, the company also manufactures customised sets in-house. Once the design is confirmed, it is converted into a detailed sketch, after which the size of stones to be used is decided and the overall piece is budgeted for. When the client agrees the budget, only then are the precious stones bought and a mock-up of the original set made. This comprises all the loose stones laid out in the agreed design, but not yet converted into the final piece. Once it is reviewed and fine-tuned by the designer and the customer, it goes into final production when the mount is made in precious metal and in which the diamonds and other precious stones are set. 7 Diana necklace from Levant 8 Liali Jewellery 9 & 10 Mosaico collection from Pure Gold

Once the design is confirmed, it is converted into a detailed sketch, after which the size of stones to be used is decided and the overall piece is budgeted for

Baker explains, “Gold is the most favoured material in Arabic jewellery and is traditionally considered a symbol of enduring value, almost like a security or an insurance for women against difficult times. As sets have evolved, diamonds have taken more precedence over any other precious stones.” Sibai adds, “The cost of a set depends on the carat and clarity of the stones. A diamond necklace may carry a total of 58 carats and be priced at AED3.7 million. The same piece could be AED2 million with different stones, however.” The quality and quantity of stones can cause the price to rocket. Damas has many sets for AED1 million to AED5 million, but for high-end customers there are some that reach the giddy heights of AED20 million and above. Pure Gold, one of the fastest-growing jewellery retailers in the Middle East and India, hand makes most of its pieces in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. They are mostly made for weddings and religious celebrations and feature brightly coloured precious stones set in usually 21-carat gold, or as seen in their Mosaico Collection 18-carat gold.

WHERE TO BUY Damas

04 4270336

Location: In all major malls across the UAE Khalil Al Sayegh 04 2217999

Location: Al Maktoum Street, Deira Levant Jewellery 04 4477940

Location: Al Qasr, Atlantis, The Palm, Burj Al Arab, The Dubai Mall, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Mina A’ Salam, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Liali Jewellery

800 LIALI (54254)

Location: Gold & Diamond Park, Ibn Battuta Mall, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, BurJuman, Mall of the Emirates, Jumeirah Centre, The Dubai Mall, Mercato Mahallati

04 2255830

Location: Gold Souk, Wafi, Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall, Pure Gold

04 3979300

Location: 40 stores across UAE in all major malls Samra

04 4473560

Location: Gold Souk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates

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STYLE AS YOU MEAN TO GO ON Another season is here and with it come countless style conundrums. Concierge gives you the lowdown on the current trends in menswear

Q W O R D S B Y AY E S H A K H A N

Autumn/winter 2011 depicts today’s gentleman as confident, resilient and decisive. His suits and topcoats are tailored and he isn’t afraid to experiment with colour. Rugged, weathered denim, paired with mountaineer boots and an oversized sweater is his weekend look and hats and bags complete the look.

The colours

The most refreshing element of autumn/winter 2011 is the colour palette. Neutrals are filled with blues and rich caramels, while mid-tones lean towards red, orange and chocolate. The more vivid hues are represented by yellow, teal and blue. A dusty rose tone was also popular with the likes of Lanvin and Gucci. The latter daringly paired it with an indigo blue. As expected, all these colours and more are featured on the D&G catwalk and even Hermès got in on the action with a surprising array of warm yellows and bright blues. Meanwhile, over at Louis Vuitton, studio director Paul Helbers was inspired by the dramatic red-orange shade of motel neon signs from David Lynch films. Not a very glamorous muse for the legendary French fashion house, but it makes for some eye-catching contrasts when paired with the dark greys and blacks that rule the collection.

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ME N ’ S FA S HI ON / S HOP

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SHO P/ MEN ’S FA SHIO N

The formal look

Dunhill’s latest collection is an ode to the suave gentleman about town. Singlebreasted evening suits, white pique front evening shirts and black silk bow ties with silver Art Deco embroidery make a man stand out from the sartorial crowd. One of the most impressive collections out of Milan this autumn came from the house of Ermenegildo Zegna, a brand that has always been a good representation of the most important cuts and silhouettes in the world of men’s fashion. While other designers (namely Lanvin) appear to be torn between a slim silhouette and a more relaxed look, Zegna knows exactly what it’s doing. Razor-sharp precision in tailoring means the new Zegna suit is extremely flattering, especially with its hourglass jackets and bold, defined shoulders. Admittedly, this is a more feminine shape, but lately androgyny seems to be the name of the game, especially for autumn/winter 2011.

7 1-5 Gucci, Catwalk (previous page) 6&7 Dunhill 8 Lacoste 9 Emporio Armani bag 10&13 Gucci 11 Lanvin 12 Emporio Armani shoe

The casual look For a more comfortable look, it turns out patchwork is no longer a grandma’s pastime. This trend is emerging in American brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren lines, Rugby and Denim & Supply. While the Hilfiger and Rugby iterations are somewhat demure (think corduroy and herringbone tweed), newly launched Ralph Lauren label Denim & Supply went all out with its statement flag patchwork jeans. Oversized cable knits and patterned sweaters are also trending. Back at Dunhill, explore the great outdoors in a burgundy and navy felted wool Fair Isle sweater - encapsulating the British winter to retro perfection.

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DUBAI – SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH, VILEBREQUIN STORE – HAMAC STORES – HARVEY NICHOLS ABU DHABI – ABU DHABI MALL, VILEBREQUIN STORE – MONTE-CARLO BEACH CLUB

WWW.VILEBREQUIN.COM

SHO P/ MEN ’S FA SHIO N

The accessories

Accessorising for the cooler climes of autumn/winter is a matter of necessity and this season’s fashion accoutrements don’t disappoint. Footwear is all about chunky boots, which perfectly offset the slimmer pant leg. At the top of the list are Thom Browne’s creations and Louis Vuitton’s range is a close second. Although Christian Louboutin is best known for his ladies’ shoes, the men’s line is unlike any other. The spiky Louis sneaker comes in a Swarovski-encrusted strass assortment. For the less adventurous, the Alfie ankle sneaker is a safer bet but still proves the French designer’s shoe prowess. Hats are definitely trending this winter, but rather than the knitted variety, more structured looks from Dior Homme and Louis Vuitton have hit catwalks across Paris. Lanvin also presented a fine collection of head ware in a diverse winter colour palette. The most exciting collection of men’s bags is Louis Vuitton’s brand new Damier Inifini line. This embossed calfskin take on the classic chequered pattern is seen in the Keepall (the ultimate weekend/travel bag for guys), Porte-Documents Voyage, Zippy Wallet and other small leather goods.

14&15 Giorgio Armani 16&18-21 Louis Vuitton 17 Carolina Herrera

The outerwear The most exciting part of any autumn/winter collection is the outerwear and this year is particularly interesting. Double-breasted seems to be the name of the game, be it a smooth, navy Hermès or heftier khaki wool by Giorgio Armani. Viktor & Rolf led the trench coat race by a mile with their sleek, belted variety. Bomber jackets are also a must-have for autumn, from Jean Paul Gaultier’s over-the-top gold version to a sleeker olive green alternative from Z Zegna. And of course, shearling is everywhere, but it’s the black Rick Owens variety that is particularly noteworthy. Louis Vuitton expertly combined these two autumn jacket trends with a shearling bomber in charcoal grey. On the opposite side of the outerwear spectrum, the flowing, minimalist coats set in pale creams and greys from the likes of Lanvin and Dior Homme were by far the greatest outerwear creation for the season, adding an air of elegance to the more formal, tailored looks shown underneath.

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THE THRILL OF THE CASE Pack serious style into your holiday with this luxury luggage

1. LOUIS VUITTON

3. BULGARI

2. TUMI

1.Hard-sided Bisten Trunks, LOUIS VUITTON, Mall of the Emirates 2.Voyageur Weekender, TUMI, The Dubai Mall 3.Weekend Travel Bag, BULGARI, Mall of the Emirates 4.Cosmetic Case, HARTMANN, ( available at Bloomingdaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) The Dubai Mall 38

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MUS T -BUY S / S HOP

7. SAMSONITE

5. JIMEALE

4. HARTMANN

6. CAROLINA HERRERA

5.Polka-dot Weekender, JIMEALE, ( available at Bloomingdale’s) The Dubai Mall 6. Men’s Brown Bag, CAROLINA HERRERA, Dubai Festival City 7.Cosmolite Red, SAMSONITE, The Dubai Mall

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DubAi SHOPPING GUIDE With the world’s top designer labels, brands and boutiques all available in Dubai’s incredible malls, finding exactly the right product can be difficult. Concierge shows you where to shop

Q Words by SCOTT BIRCH

Shopping in Dubai often does not feel like shopping at all. The sprawling malls are so huge and elaborately designed that often they can feel like a separate city in themselves. As well as all the stores you could possibly imagine, the malls also have restaurants and cafés which draw both shoppers and Dubai residents meeting with friends. Children are well looked after, with play centres for all ages at all of the major malls. There is everything from soft play areas for toddlers to themed thrill rides for teenagers. Amazing aquariums, stunning ski slopes and vast entertainment venues make a trip to the mall more than a shopping expedition.

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MA L L OV E RV I E W / s hop

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MA L L OV E RV I E W / s hop

With a 14-screen cinema, Magic Planet family entertainment centre and more than 520 international brands, Mall of the Emirates is a must for both adults and children

1 (Previous page) Louis Vuitton at Mall of the Emirates 2 Mall of the Emirates 3 Dubai Marina Mall 4 The Dubai Mall

Mall highlights The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping complex in the world. Opened in November 2008 at the foot of Burj Khalifa, this is an immense space dedicated to retail and leisure. The world’s largest indoor gold souk is not to be missed, as well as the Fashion Avenue flanked by designer-name boutiques. KidZania is a great edutainment centre where children can role play as adults, choosing to be everything from a pilot to a film star. An ice rink, the world’s biggest suspended aquarium and features like the waterfall with divers make the mall worthy of more than one visit.

Mall of the Emirates on Sheikh Zayed Road is another popular shopping centre with much more to offer than just shopping. This busy space is also home to Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, as well as the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre, which stages internationally renowned plays and concerts. With a 14-screen cinema, Magic Planet family entertainment centre, more than 520 international brands and a recently opened Fashion Dome dedicated to high-end brands, Mall of the Emirates is a must for both adults and children.

Further along Sheikh Zayed Road is the recently opened Dubai Marina Mall. This smaller retail offering is home to UK high-street favourites such as Coast, Kurt Geiger, Ted Baker, Monsoon and Reiss. There are several cafés and restaurants too serving Japanese, Italian and Asian cuisine. Mercato on fashionable Jumeirah Beach Road is another smaller-scale centre with an Italian theme and relaxed vibe. Based on Renaissance architecture, Mercato captures Italian, French and Spanish characteristics in a colourful, family-friendly environment. Catch a movie in the popular cinema and head for the Porto Vecchio Village on the first floor for unusual gifts. Describing itself as “the world’s most exclusive shopping destination”, BurJuman has more than 300 stores with an emphasis on high fashion. Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Cartier, Christian Lacroix, Salvatore Ferragamo and Just Cavalli are some of the boutiques to get you excited. With a distinctive ancient Egyptian theme, Wafi mall in Oud Metha is hard to miss on the way to the airport. Don’t be fooled by obelisks and soaring pyramids, though. Inside, Wafi is a modern tribute to high-end shopping, with exclusive boutiques and unique outlets.

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SHO P/ MA LL O VERVIEW

Time is precious

Luxury high-end watches are a growing market here, with visitors from far and wide descending on Dubai just to make that special timepiece investment. From distinguished Swiss masterpieces to the ultimate fashion statement, you are sure to find the watch that makes you tick. Many of the finest brands have their own boutiques and can also be found in distributor outlets a lot of the bigger malls. Even if you know exactly which brand you are looking for, if they don’t have their own stand-alone store then you could waste precious time locating the perfect watch. Let Concierge give you a hand with our guide.

5 6 7 8

Glashutte Original Senator Automatic Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II Breguet diamond and pearl ladies' watch A Lange & Söhne Little Saxonia

Rivoli (call 800 RIVOLI) distributes many high-end timepieces, including IWC, Blancpain, Breguet, Carl F. Bucherer, Glashütte, Girard-Perregaux and Jaeger Le Coultre and has Rivoli Prestige stores in Deira City Centre, Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates, as well as the Burj Al Arab and select five-star hotels. Ahmed Siddiqi & Sons is another local distributor with an impressive portfolio of watches. A Lange & Söhne, Audemars Piguet, Chopard, Franck Muller, Harry Winston, Hublot, IWC, MB&F, Patek Philippe, Piaget and Rolex are just some of their horological highlights. With stores in the finer malls and in many five-star hotels, you can contact them on 04 3323777 to discuss your needs.

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Mall of the Emirates • 04 3410630 | Dubai Mall • 04 4341400 Burjuman • 04 3557845 | Mercato • 04 3422021 Dubai Festival City • 04 2326411 | Mirdif • 04 2840761

SHO P/ MA LL O VERVIEW

If the original Gold Souk in Deira does not appeal, try the modern, air-conditioned version deep in the heart of The Dubai Mall – the largest indoor gold souk in the world

All that glitters Lovers of gold, diamonds and fabulous jewellery are spoilt for choice in Dubai’s malls, souks and exchanges. If the original Gold Souk in Deira does not appeal, you can try the modern, air-conditioned version deep in the heart of The Dubai Mall – the largest indoor gold souk in the world. On Sheikh Zayed Road, the Gold & Diamond Park allows visitors to watch creations take shape and even commission a bespoke piece from one of the master craftsmen. However, if you are looking for something stunning from a store, there are many choices across the emirate’s malls. Damas (04 4270336) is an international jewellery and watch retailer with more than 450 stores in 18 countries. There are three tiers of Damas stores, with Les Exclusives featuring some of the world’s finest luxury brands. With too many outlets to list here, call to find details of their nearest appropriate store for you. Italian fine jewellery brand Aliel opened its Middle East flagship store earlier this year in Gate Village (04 3231113). With a reputation for quality and craftsmanship, Aliel creates jewellery for connoisseurs. Samra has grown from a small family business into a Dubai jewellery corporation with three high-end factories and

9 Fancy vivid yellow Tiffany & Co. diamond necklace, from Damas 10 Yellow diamond Tiffany & Co. ring, from Damas 11 Mahallati diamond and pearl earrings 12 Tiffany & Co. rings, from Damas 13 Stenzhorn diamond ring, pendant and watch, from Levant Jewellery

nine retail outlets. Priding itself on excellent customer service and a wide selection of designs, Samra (800 SAMRA) creates and sells fashionable jewellery. Istana has a broad range of ready-towear jewellery for all occasions, as well as leading watch brand Bovet. Fashion items can be made to measure, from a simple solitaire diamond ring to an ornate necklace. Istana Jewellers Boutique is located in Bur Juman and in the gold souk in The Dubai Mall. Call 04 3520002.

Mahallati Jewellery produces elegant and opulent designs using diamonds and precious stones as well as stylish designs for everyday wear. With stores in malls and the Gold Souk, call 04 2255830 to find the right one for you. With keywords of passion and perfection, Khalil Al Sayegh offers diamond and precious stone pieces to an exclusive customer base that includes royalty and heads of state. Call 04 2217999 to discover more.

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www.frey-wille.com vienna, austria

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

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

MA L L OV E RV I E W / S HOP

Mall of the Emirates-based store and purchase products from Kiehl’s, Elemis, Lanvin, Prada and Chloé. A staple of the British shopping scene, Debenhams has stores in Deira City Centre, Ibn Battuta, Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall and Mirdiff City Centre. Call 04 3399285 for more information on beauty products from brands such as Biotherm, Clinique and Elizabeth Arden.

PICTURE: COURTESY OF CLARINS

With more than 40 stores across the Middle East including several in Dubai, Paris Gallery offers a premium assortment of more than 450 brands such as Sisley, Chanel, Clarins, Natura Bisse and Helena Rubinstein. Call 04 3308289 to find your nearest store. Launched in 1813 in London, Harvey Nichols (04 4098888) is now present in China, Turkey, Indonesia and the UAE. Head to the ground floor of this

Crème de la crème Just like watches and jewellery, cosmetics are also big business in Dubai. Natural-skincare favourite L’Occitane en Provence has stand-alone stores in Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina Mall and The Dubai Mall while highend brands including Sisley, Elemis, Kiehl’s, La Prairie and La Mer are distributed through a range of retailers throughout the city. Head to any one and browse a wide selection of anti-ageing creams, body bronzers, luxury makeup and designer fragrances. Areej is one of the region’s fastest growing cosmetics and perfume retailers with stores across the UAE and Oman

stocking international brands such as Dior, Lancôme, Guerlain, Chanel, YSL, Clinique, Givenchy, Estée Lauder, Clarins, La Prairie, Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Armani and more. Sephora was founded in 1993 in France. Today, Sephora is not only the leading chain of perfume and cosmetics stores in France, it is also present in 13 other countries including the USA and the UAE. Owned by luxury goods group Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, the chain stocks products from brands including Dior, Paco Rabanne, Clinique and St.Tropez. Call (04 2326023) to find your nearest Dubai store.

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HERE COMES THE SUN Protect your skin, prolong your tan and perfect a glowing complexion with our ultimate guide to suncare and tanning

Q Protecting your skin against the harmful rays of the sun is paramount and there are many products that come in an array of formulas, which boast additional benefits.

The body From Lancaster comes Sun Care Oil-Free Milky Spray SPF15, a lightweight broadspectrum spray that protects, hydrates, prevents premature ageing and enhances the tan. For a higher protection sunscreen, try Lancaster’s Sun Age Control Firming & Comforting Radiant Tan, or Clarins Sun Care Milk-Lotion Spray UVB 50+.

The face There are specific face sunscreens which fuse anti-ageing and high-factor protection benefits. Try Clarins’ Sun Wrinkle Control Cream For Face UVB 50+; Lancôme’s Soleil DNA Guard; or Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense Ultra Light Sunscreen SPF50+, a water-resistant formula. For daily use, try Kiehl’s Abyssine Lotion SPF15 sunscreen.

BLUMARINE S/S 2011

Sensitive skin

Sensitive skins should look for natural ingredients. Kiehl’s Vital Sun Protection All-Sport Year-Round Face & Body is an easily-absorbed fragrance-free sunscreen that’s ideal for kids and adults. The allnatural Korres Sweet Orange Sunscreen Emulsion Face & Body SPF15 offers broadspectrum sun protection and helps to reduce the visible signs of ageing.

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BE A UT Y / S HOP

SELF-TANNING & SUN MAKE-UP 5

Tan enhancement There are lots of multi-tasking products, which not only prolong, but also intensify tans and nourish skin after sun exposure. Guerlain’s Terracotta Collection and Lancaster’s Tan Maximiser products are particular highlights. Try Guerlain’s Terracotta James De Gazelle Cooling Bronzing Mist, a quick-drying tan-accelerating cooling bronzing mist that intensifies, embellishes and prolongs a tan. Or simply mix several drops of super-concentrated Terracotta Serum Tan-Prolonging Complex with your usual skincare creams for a tan-accelerating action. Lancaster’s Legendary Tan is an oil, which not only leaves skin nourished, but helps enhance the tan, giving it shine.

7 1 Lancaster Suncare Oil-Free Milky Spray SPF15 2 Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Cream For Face SPF50+ 3 Korres Sweet Orange Sunscreen 4 Kiehl’s Abyssine Lotion + SPF 15 5 Clarins Sun Care Milk-Lotion Spray SPF50+ 6 Kiehl’s Super Fluid uv defense 7 Lancaster Infinite Bronze Face Bronzer 9 11

Self-tan

Want tanned legs before your vacation? Lancôme’s Flash Bronzer Smoothing Self-Tanner Sublime Legs provides pins with a golden caramel colour, while Lancaster’s Flash Bronzer Airbrush gives an all-over spray tan. Lancaster also offers tanning mousse, gel and one with extra shimmer. New to the market, Clarins Instant Smooth Self Tanning is a silky, lightweight mousse, which not only develops a subtle healthy glow – intensifying to a tan with regular application – but also smoothes away fine lines. For a lightweight, tinted face cream, try Lancaster’s Infinite Bronze Face Bronzer.

Tanning make-up 13

T O P TA N N I N G T I P S 1. Use a ‘broad spectrum’ sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15 to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. 2. Apply the sunscreen about 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure 3. Ensure you reapply sunscreen every two hours 4. Protect your face and eyes with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection. 5. Choose water-resistant products if you’re swimming and opt for a high SPF factor sunscreen when in water

For those looking for a glow, Bourjois and Estée Lauder offer a range of tanning/bronzing make-up products. Bourjois’ Delice de Soleil range includes a traditional bronzing powder compact, as well as an innovative body and face bronzing powder that comes as a spray, delivering a subtle shimmer. Estée Lauder’s latest Bronze Goddess collection – inspired by the hues of the Riviera – includes an eyeshadow palette of surf and sand shades and a limited-edition Sea Star Bronzing Blush, providing skin with a sun-kissed finish.

8 Guerlain Terracota 9 Lancaster Legendary Tan 10 Lancôme soleil DNA Guard 11 Lancaster Sun Age Control 12 Lancôme Flash Bronzer 13 Bourjois Delice de Soleil Bronzing Powder 14 Guerlain Terracotta Serum 15 Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess

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Taste Arabic cuisine

Full of outstanding restaurants serving cuisine from every corner of the globe, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to forget that this cosmopolitan, modern emirate also offers some of the best Arabic food in the region. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overlook the traditional favourites such as hommous, moutabel, fatoush, soups, salads and a delicious hot mezzeh of grilled chicken, lamb, beef and prawns (below).

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A S I A N RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

Asian flavour Brandish your chopsticks and head to one of these superb restaurants for a dinner to remember

Q W o r d s b y K at h r y n R o b e r t s

The Thai Kitchen Although usually busy, Thai Kitchen, with its dark wood and moody interior, is the perfect place to cosy up with a loved one and savour the flavours of some of the best Thai cuisine in the Middle East. Located in the wonderfully romantic Park Hyatt Dubai (expect storm lantern-lined passageways leading to the restaurant), there are four live working kitchens for wok, grill, steam and noodles, as well as a kitchen preparing traditional desserts.The eatery is reminiscent of downtown Bangkok and has seating positioned around the kitchens allowing guests to enjoy the sights and aromas of classicThai cuisine being prepared. For something more intimate, there are tables set away from the kitchens and even canopy-covered terraces. Dishes are presented in celadon tableware, making dining an exotic experience. Look out for the exquisite spring rolls and fishcake, perfect for a night of candlelit romance. Location: Park Hyatt Dubai / Taste: Shrimp spring rolls Open: Friday brunch, 12.30 to 4pm. Dinner, 7pm to midnight daily / Contact: 04 6021235

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A S I A N RE S T A URA N T S / t a s t e

This award-winning, über-chic restaurant features a striking black and red theme with high-backed chairs, atmospheric lighting and spectacular panoramic views of the Dubai skyline

The Noble House If it’s contemporary Chinese dining you’re after, The Noble House is just the ticket. This award-winning, über-chic restaurant features a striking black and red theme with high-backed chairs, atmospheric lighting and spectacular panoramic views of the Dubai skyline. Located at the peak of the pyramid-shaped Raffles Dubai, the outlet serves imaginative Szechuan and Cantonese specialities. Look out for deliciously indulgent dim sum, the Raffles Beluga caviar dumplings and crystal black truffle dumplings are just two of the many tasty treats. Favourite main courses include wok-fried Australian lobster with ginger and spring onion, and Cantonese roasted duck with plum sauce. For pre-dessert, try the trio of Chinese pumpkin pastries before a serving of coconut ice cream with strawberry and mango cream, or how about the more unusual roast pear with vanilla beans, ganache and ginger jelly? With a variety of well-balanced set menus, The Noble House offers exceptional cuisine in vibrant surroundings. Location: Raffles Dubai / Taste: Wok-fried Australian lobster Open: Daily from 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 3149888

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t a st e /A SIA N RESTA URA NTS

The China Club With antique silks and embroidered hangings adorning the walls,The China Club offers an escape to ancient Imperial China. Its sophisticated yet relaxed setting, complemented by entirely Chinese waiting staff and chefs, make the restaurant one of the best places to indulge in Peking, Szechwan and Cantonese specialities. Tuck into the braised veal shank with five-spice seasoning along with stir-fried lobster with gailan (Chinese broccoli). And why not sweeten your culinary experience with The China Club treasure box, comprising five desserts in one? In the heart of the restaurant, private dining cubicles complement the main dining room, providing self-contained, intimate settings for business or pleasure.The dishes, which are prepared with tradition and imagination by 11 master chefs, are sure to leave a lasting impression. Location: The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Taste: The China Club treasure box Open: Daily from 12.30 to 3pm and 7.30 to 11pm / Contact: 04 2227171

Bamboo Lagoon A tropical, Asian-themed restaurant of huts, bridges and waterways serving Far Eastern cuisine, Bamboo Lagoon is a fun, family restaurant with a Polynesian band, live cooking stations and bar with signature Tiki ware and exotic cocktails. There’s also a natural rock wall that drips water into pools while Tiki warriors guard the restaurant’s entrance – a real hit with children. Despite the novelties, the quality of food is top priority. Flavours from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong and the Polynesian islands create popular dishes including assorted dim sum, sushi, teppanyaki and mixed seafood in green curry sauce. Take time to sip on fresh fruit juices at the Tropical Bar and admire the carvings and artifacts located throughout the self-service, buffet-style restaurant, together with the bamboo-beamed thatch roofing which perfectly recreates village huts in a tropical environment. If it’s interactive fun and entertainment you’re after, Bamboo Lagoon is just the ticket. Location: JW Marriott Dubai / Taste: Mixed seafood in green curry sauce Open: Friday brunch, noon to 4pm. Dinner, 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 6077977

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t a st e /A SIA N RESTA URA NTS

Nobu Anyone who appreciates fine Japanese cuisine will have heard of world-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the award-winning culinary master who infuses contemporary Japanese cooking with South American influences. Incorporating Matsuhisa’s signature dishes, Nobu at Atlantis, The Palm, is the first Nobu restaurant in the Middle East and is complemented by a stylish sushi bar and sake lounge. From the legendary seared black cod served with sweet miso sauce to the yellowtail topped with thin slices of jalapeno, the menu at Nobu is imaginative and varied. Also worth checking out are the pumpkin chips with foie gras and mustard miso, along with the king crab leg with shiso salsa. Nobu also offers an international wine list featuring new and old world vintages, as well as a selection of quality sake. Guests can enjoy the assortment all week long, in the most stylish of surroundings, which include the lounge and main dining area, and dedicated private spots for intimate gatherings. Nobu welcomes the family for brunch on Fridays. Cooking classes are available on the first Saturday of every month for those who wish to learn the secrets behind the world-famous cuisine.

Location: Atlantis, The Palm Taste: Yellowtail topped with slices of jalapeno Open: 7 to 11.30pm Saturday to Wednesday. 7 to 12.30am Thursday and Friday Contact: 04 4262626

From the legendary seared black cod served with sweet miso sauce to the yellowtail topped with thin slices of jalapeno, the menu at Nobu is imaginative and varied

Chi’Zen Opened in December, Chi’Zen offers a distinctly new culinary journey. Specialising in high-end Cantonese cuisine and overlooking Dubai Festival City marina, this trendy outlet is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for Chinese food. A statue warrior believed to fend off bad spirits welcomes guests into the dining area, which features dynamic black and red décor and more than 200 pieces of authentic Chinese art. With floor-to-ceiling windows, Chi’Zen is transformed from a bright contemporary daytime spot to a more seductive retreat in the evening. And with the only fully licensed terrace in Dubai Festival City, the outdoor area is highly sought-after. Indulge in well-known dishes such as kung pao chicken and panfried beef tenderloin with Hong Kong sauce. For those with an experimental palate, delicacies including rainbow jellyfish, braised bird’s nest soup and deep-fried boneless chicken wings stuffed with sticky rice are unusual alternatives. There is also a recently opened second restaurant in Mall of the Emirates.

Location: Dubai Festival City marina pavilion and Mall of the Emirates Taste: Rainbow jellyfish / Open: Daily noon to midnight / Contact: 04 2329077

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Get ready to enter the record books. Travel on a journey through the history of the U.A.E to above the clouds and beyond your highest expectations. With timed ticketing for your convenience, visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa to see Dubai as it has never been seen before. For more information please call us on 800 AT THE TOP, or visit www.atthetop.ae to purchase your tickets today. Join us on Facebook

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

just desserts Laced with nuts and delightfully sugary, if you haven’t tried Middle Eastern sweets now is the time

Q Words by Amanda Tomlinson

For many people, the best part of a meal is the dessert and regardless of the cuisine, there’s bound to be a selection of decadent sweets to savour and enjoy. Arabic desserts come in all shapes and colours, and their history, while not that well documented, can be traced back through time and across many countries. As with any culinary fare, traditional Arabic desserts feature ingredients that were readily available in the area centuries ago and commonly contain nuts, cream, milk and sweet soft cheese as well as lashings of syrup. Some dishes also have an interesting story behind their origins. Umm Ali, a milky Egyptian dessert, for instance, means ‘mother of Ali’ in English, but who is Ali and why is there a dish named after his mother? There are conflicting stories about its past. Some say a sultan was hunting in the Nile Delta and stopped at a village because he was hungry. He asked for the village’s best cook, Umm Ali, to prepare a meal for him, but the only ingredients she had

1&3 Baklava 2&4 Umm Ali 5 Znoud

were some dried wheat flakes, sultanas, nuts and coconut, which she covered with milk and sugar before baking. Legend has it that the sultan was so impressed that when he next visited he asked for ‘Umm Ali’s dessert’. Other stories suggest that Umm Ali was the first wife of Sultan Ezz El Din Aybek, but when he died, there was a dispute with his second wife over whose son would be the successor. In Egypt, women were not entitled to rule, but were allowed to be the guardians over their sons, until he became king. Legend has it that Umm Ali hatched a plan to kill the heavily guarded second wife and bribed her maids to beat her to death with her own slippers. To celebrate the death, she made this dessert and distributed it to the people.

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L OCA L FL A V OUR / T A S T E

Arabic desserts come in all shapes and colours, and their history, while not that well documented, can be traced back through time and across many countries

Another dessert with a disputed history is baklava. Many countries, including Greece, Turkey and Lebanon, claim this dish of puff/ filo pastry, pine nuts, pistachios and syrup as their own. There is evidence tracing baklava to the 8th century BC when the Assyrians baked thin layers of dough with nuts, poured honey over it and enjoyed it on special occasions. Further research suggests the recipe was perfected during the reign of the Ottoman Empire when chefs were brought in from Armenia, Greece, Persia, Egypt, Syria and occasionally Serbia, Hungary and France to cook in the palaces and kitchens of the wealthy. Regardless of where the desserts originate, one thing is certain: they are a must-try while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re visiting the emirate. Just be sure to do extra laps around the malls to burn off all the calories.

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E UROPE A N D I N I N G/ t a s t e

In the Eurozone With spectacular views, celebrity chefs and delicious continental cuisine, Dubai’s European restaurants are nothing short of world class

Q Vu’s Restaurant Admire spectacular views over the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline at this stylish restaurant on the 50 th floor. Even the plush purple carpets, rich wooden wall paneling and elegant cocktail glasses delicately hanging from mock chandeliers aren’t enough to prise your eyes from the flurry of lights and high-rise towers that pepper Sheikh Zayed Road below. The imaginative dishes, however, are. The award-winning gourmet venue serves some of the city’s finest contemporary European cuisine. Look out for the risotto with roasted tiger prawns, chorizo and smoked paprika as well as the roasted diver scallops with miso veloute, braised erengi and macadamia nuts. There’s also an award-winning wine list to pick over, with the expert guidance of the restaurant’s sommelier. Vu’s is ideal for any occasion, be it a romantic tête à tête, catching up with old friends or impressing key clients. Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers / Contact: 04 3198088

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4c Graphic Logo

Pantone Metallic Gold 871 + 4 c graphic

1c Simplified Logo

Pantone Metallic Gold 871

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19/09/2011 10:49

E UROPE A N D I N I N G/ t a s t e

The Med Enjoy the relaxed and fun environment at this contemporary restaurant, which serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine, ideal for meeting up with friends. Sleek wooden flooring is paired with luxurious black and blue interior furnishing to complete the minimalist look. Taste your way through a variety of exciting dishes, each bursting with flavour and don’t forget the mojito and martini drink stations that promise to stir up a storm. The Med has become a favourite on the city’s ever-popular brunch scene. Head to the restaurant on a Friday lunch time and enjoy the open food buffet and all-you-can-drink bubbly, house wines, beer and other beverages from the drink stations. Be prepared to let your hair down and have fun.

Location: Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City Contact: 04 4271000

Verre by Gordon Ramsay When Verre opened a decade ago, it was the first celebrity restaurant in the city and Ramsay’s first outside the UK. In a fast-moving culinary environment it has managed to maintain its status as one of the best eateries in the emirate. While the famous figurehead oversees the restaurant on his frequent visits to Dubai, the task of maintaining Ramsay’s particular standards falls on the shoulders of talented chef Scott Price. Given the scope to adapt the menu to incorporate the best produce available, Price adds his own style to the Ramsay formula. Revamped last year, the interior is a sophisticated, contemporary space that is elegant enough to let the food do the talking. Dinner guests can choose from the threecourse set menu, with enough options to keep most diners happy (unless they happen to be Ramsay’s bête noire, the vegetarian). Alternatively, there is a superb degustation menu which provides samples of many of those same dishes – perfect if you can’t make up your mind. All dishes are meticulously presented, with quality ingredients and inventive combinations. An essential selection has to be the tarte tatin. Made for sharing, this sticky sensation is served table-side, only adding to the spectacle. Or for a close-up experience, book the chef’s table and dine in-kitchen with chef Scott. He promises not to bite. Location: Hilton Dubai Creek / Contact: 04 2127551

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T A ST E /EURO PEA N DIN ING

A L S O T RY Nineteen The signature restaurant at The Address Montgomerie Dubai is stylish, sophisticated and head and shoulders above most other European eateries in the emirate. 04 3631275

Stay by Yannick Alléno Serving traditional dishes with a modern twist, this stylish restaurant at One & Only The Palm, Dubai is fast becoming one of the city’s most popular haunts. Take your cue from us and try the lobster ‘fricassée’. 04 4401010

A mixture of modern minimalism, fused with baroque influences and occasional bursts of colour, this super-stylish setting is one of the most stunning venues in Dubai Rhodes Mezzanine With Michelin-starred chef Gary Rhodes at the helm, you can expect big things from Rhodes Mezzanine – one of Grosvenor House’s flagship restaurants. A mixture of modern minimalism, fused with baroque influences and occasional bursts of colour, this super-stylish setting is one of the most stunning venues in Dubai. Specialising in quintessentially British cuisine, there’s something gloriously relaxed and almost rustic about this celebrated bill of fare. Heavenly dishes, such as scallop soup, roast fillet of beef and rhubarb and custard soufflé with sorbet will make your dining experience a memorable one. Don’t forget to try the sticky toffee pudding – a rite of passage for any firsttimers. Admittedly, you’ll need to do a few extra sessions on the treadmill afterwards, but trust us when we tell you, it’s worth it. Location: Grosvenor House Dubai Contact: 04 3998888

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25/09/2011 18:56

experience Watersports

With its hot temperatures and calm blue seas, Dubai is ideal for a spot of adrenaline-fuelled, water-based sport. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterskiing, surfing, sailing or wakeboarding (below) there are endless activities to enjoy off the coast of this dynamic destination. Ask your hotel concierge for details or call one of the reputable operators in the Experience listings from page 114.

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25/09/2011 18:58

SAFARI AT SUNDOWN Experience an exhilarating dune drive across the vast Arabian Desert

Q W o r d s b y C av e l l M a l l e t t

It’s easy to get caught up in the fast pace of life and forget the great wonders that lie just beyond the city limits, so needless to say, I’m looking forward to venturing out into the desert for an adventure. On a sunny afternoon, I’m picked up in a four-wheel drive by my Arabian Adventures guide, Yamen, and we head to the desert conservation reserve. Yamen is from Syria, but has lived in the UAE for more than 14 years. As he drives, he passionately tells the tales of the region’s expansion and local history, clearly exuding his love for the country and its people. We arrive at the group meeting point, where Yamen jumps out of our Chevroet Tahoe, warmly greeting the other drivers. While I chat with the other guests, the drivers deflate the tyres to give the car better traction and allow for a ‘smoother’ ride. Today we’ll be travelling in a 16-car convoy, with the most experienced drivers at the front, middle and back, keeping the group together.

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25/09/2011 16:06

D ES E RT S A FA RI / E XPE R IE NCE

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D ES E RT S A FA RI / E XPE R IE NCE

Rollercoaster ride It’s time to buckle up and we’re off. I’m lucky enough to be sitting at the front, getting up close and personal with the incredible view I had been admiring on the drive out. As we twist and turn along vertical walls of sand, the change in the dunes is clear as the view splits between sand and sky. Yamen expertly challenges a daunting dune. One minute we’re roaring upwards and then just as suddenly we’re hanging precariously off the edge. As I stare straight down the dune I cast a glance upwards, thankful for whoever invented the seatbelt that holds me securely in place. For a moment we teeter on the tip before soaring down the other side. Safely at the bottom, Yamen checks if I’m okay and with the breathless excitement of a child at a fairground, I say “again, again”. It’s reassuring to know that these fourwheel-drive vehicles are fitted with roll bars, airbags and experienced drivers so you’re in safe hands.

During the calmer moments of the journey, I marvel at the picturesque landscape. Tufts of greenery are dotted across the sand, accompanied by graceful gazelles. On seeing my excitement for wild animals, Yamen nods to one and asks if I’ve eaten lunch yet. Of course, he’s only joking and to my relief he explains that hunting is strictly forbidden in the reserve. We park below the dunes for the final stop before camp, the sunset stop. Everyone piles out of the cars and climbs the gentle ascent to take in the view. It is genuinely breathtaking. Sunrays pierce through the scattered clouds smudging the edges of the dunes and creating a kaleidoscope of rich reds and deep purples. Looking around I notice that we’ve subconsciously created a line along the crest of a dune as if paying homage to the sun gods for this awe-inspiring sight.

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EXPE R IENCE/DES ERT SA F A RI

Camp culture

PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy of Arabian Adventures

The belly dancer whirls across the floor with mesmerising moves. It is a hip-shaking blur of bright material and swirling sparkles

Against the fading light we head towards the Bedouin-style camp. At the entrance, a falcon, the national bird of the UAE, perches elegantly on the arm of its handler. I agree to be the first to hold this brilliant bird. Instructed by the photographer, I shake my arm which triggers the bird to grandly open its wings. While great for a photo, this also triggers my ever-so-slight fear of birds. I happily hand the falcon back to its owner and wander over to the waiting camels. Young and old squeal with delight as the camels unfold and rise to their feet. I enter the camp through a woodenwalkway of colourful lights. The tables are low, forming a U shape around the belly dancing stage. The campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s host welcomes everyone and invites them for a dinner of grilled meat, curries and fresh salads. Unlimited soft drinks are available as well as authentic Arabic coffee, which is served with dates for added sweetness. I stroll barefoot around the camp and feel the soft sand between my toes. This backto-basics concept seems far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Then Yamen points out the activities on offer. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s henna tattooing, where a temporary dye is intricately painted onto the body. Sand artists skillfully pour bright sand into a bottle, sculpting a personalised desert background.

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EXPE R IENCE/DES ERT SA F A RI

Visitors can also embrace the local culture by dressing in traditional clothing – kandoura for men and abaya for women – or sampling aromatic apple-flavoured shisha. T hen sudden ly t he A rabic music increases in tempo, the flood lights switch on and it’s time to be dazzled by the belly dancer. As the crowd claps, the dancer whirls across the floor with dizzying speed and mesmerising moves. It’s a hip-shaking blur against the bright material and swirling sparkles of her costume. Eventually the evening draws to a close with a five-minute blackout for stargazing. I stare up at the silent sky, which is occasionally illuminated by flashing cameras. Afterwards Yamen and I walk to the car for the drive back. As I watch the dunes passing by in the still of the night, Yamen ref lects on the day he experiences on a regular basis. It’s easy to understand his jubilant mood. A range of desert safaris are offered by Arabian Adventures, including the Sundowner, which costs AED330 for adults and AED295 for children. For more details or to book a safari, contact 02 6911711 or see www.arabian-adventures.com

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25/09/2011 19:03

It’s more than just an oasis. It’s alluring Al Ain.

AL AIN OASIS

AL AIN WILDLIFE PARK & RESORT

AL AIN SOUK

JEBEL HAFEET

AL JAHILI FORT

A traveller’s retreat in the heart of the desert. Breathe pure air and tranquillity to the sound of trickling water. Pure relaxation!

Get in touch with nature through unique exhibits. See the White Lions of Sambona and White Tigers ‘Sugar & Spice.’ Evening summer openings include a nightly bird show.

In the heart of the city lies the soul of Arabia. This market has all that’s needed for desert life.

Stand atop Abu Dhabi’s highest peak and look down at the wonder of Al Ain city.

This superbly renovated fort is the birthplace of the late UAE founding father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

SOUK AL ZAFARANA

AL AIN EQUESTRIAN SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB

AL AIN RACEWAY

CAMEL MARKET

AL AIN PALACE MUSEUM

This neighbourhood market delights with handicrafts, perfumes and UAE national dress.

Ride pure bred Arabians in extensive grounds, or play a highly affordable, all-grass, 18-hole course.

Get the adrenaline flowing at this state-of-the-art karting facility.

A photographer’s delight. Noise, bustle and bargaining marks the trading of these ships of the desert.

Discover more about Abu Dhabi’s ruling family by visiting their former home.

Visit a world where tranquility and adventure meet. Where you can uncover the beauty that lies hidden within the desert. Discover the splendour that is Al Ain. Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.

Discover more. www.visitabudhabi.ae or call 800 555

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9/7/11 11:46 AM

Hammam heaven Energise yourself with an invigorating treatment at one of Dubai’s opulent spas

Talise Ottoman Spa Inspired by a traditional Turkish Spa, the Talise Ottoman Spa is one of the largest and most opulent in the region. As well as traditional steam rooms and saunas, indoor sea-water pools, a snow room and three hot stone beds, it also offers some of the best hammam facilities in the UAE. This age-old tradition begins with three hammams each complemented by a network of marble ‘kurnas’ and relaxation areas centred around a majestic pool to cool you after experiencing the heat of the marble ‘goebektas’. Try the 60-minute Royal Ottoman treatment, which combines a mix of rituals such as a kese mitt body scrub and an olive-oil, foam-soap massage. Your hair is also shampooed and your scalp massaged before moisturising conditioning. Then there is a facial cleanse, exfoliation and masque to revitalise your complexion.

Where: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray / When: 9am to 9pm Cost: AED390 / Contact: 04 4530456

The Spa at The Palace – The Old Town Offering Oriental treatments surrounded by beautiful Arabic décor, The Spa at The Palace – The Old Town features jacuzzis, monsoon showers, steam rooms and a relaxation lounge. It also offers a hammam slab on which guests can experience a spa ritual inspired by the traditions of Marrakech. In the 75-minute Oriental Hammam Ritual a therapist covers the body with traditional black soap from Morocco before you take a steam bath. This is followed by a thorough scrubbing on the hammam table and traditional dousing, leaving your skin fresh and your senses enlivened. Experience this Oriental Hammam Ritual combined with soothing rhassoul clay from the Moroccan Atlas Mountains mixed with rose water to nourish the skin. A soothing application of traditional argan oil mixed with essential oils completes the experience. Where: The Palace – The Old Town When: 9am to 10pm / Cost: AED495 / Contact: 04 4287888

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s pa s /e xpe r ie nce

Health & Beauty Institute The Health & Beauty Institute is an exclusive sanctuary of pampering nestled among a lush landscape with towering domes, carved arches and intricate design. The space is divided over two levels, one featuring the One&Only Spa and the other the authentic Oriental Hammam where guests can completely unwind with a traditional heated marble massage table, two steam rooms, two Jacuzzis, two private massage rooms, plunge shower and a whirlpool in the rest area. The 110-minute Complete Oriental Treatment starts with cleansing and is followed by a head-to-toe body scrub. Then a body wrap with ‘ghassoul’ mud is applied together with a honey mask. An extended relaxing massage in a private room completes the experience.

Where: One&Only Royal Mirage When: Open for ladies from 8.30am to 2pm and for gentlemen from 8 to 10pm Cost: AED650 / Contact: 04 3999999

Caracalla Spa The award-winning Caracalla Spa offers hotel guests, Caracalla members and guests who have booked a spa treatment, access to the hammam pools. The pools, which are located on the first floor of the spa, are surrounded by soft candlelight and intricate mosaics. Four pools of differing temperatures fill each corner of the room while the fifth, principle pool in the centre of the room is surrounded by marble pillars and graceful Roman statues. Guests are advised to start with the warmest pool (38°) before moving to the cooler pools (36°, 33°, 29°) and ending with the coldest (18°). They should then repeat the sequence, backwards and spend five to eight minutes in each pool for the most relaxing experience. Good for blood circulation and muscle tension, use of the hammam pools is ideal prior to spa treatments.

I n t h e k n o w: Where: Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa When: 9.30am to 9pm Cost: Free to guests, spa members and visitors who have booked a spa treatment Contact: 04 3995555

A hammam is either a tiled steam room or several steam rooms and pools for communal use. In a traditional Turkish hammam there are many rooms and chambers each offering different water-based benefits similar to Roman baths. There is often a proposed order for using the facilities to gain maximum benefit. Your visit may include a soapwash and an oilbased massage. A trip to the hammam is not always considered a luxury and can be a weekly occurrence when men and women bathe with friends and relatives in separate rooms. A hammam is usually single sex. Hammam-style baths can be found not only in Turkey, but also in the Middle East and North Africa.

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25/09/2011 16:08

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

Flat-out Ferrari fun 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. With the 2011 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix taking to the track next month, the city is thriving 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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Crazy Lobster Sundays at Fish Market! The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek's award-winning Seafood restaurant, Fish Market, offers Crazy Lobster Sundays every Sunday for only AED 85 available for lunch and dinner throughout the month! Choose from any size of Lobster from the Fish Market's Seafood display for only AED 85 and order it the way you like it cooked! Enjoy Dubai's stunning views of the Creek together with delicious signature Lobster dishes. Open for lunch: 12:30 - 15:30 & dinner 19:30 - 23:15

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

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

‫ أﻃﻠﺐ ﻧﺴﺨﻪ‬.‫ﻣﺠﻠﺔ ﻛﻮﻧﺴﻴﺮج ﻣﺘﻮﻓﺮة ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻛﺬﻟﻚ‬ .‫ﻣﻦ ﻣﻜﺘﺐ اﻻﺳﺘﻘﺒﺎل 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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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 Fer-rariâ&#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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EXPE R IENCE/Ferra ri Wo rl d A b u D h a b i

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 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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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

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9/19/11 5:11 PM

Discover Tradit iona l dress

The sight of an Emirati in traditional dress is a welcome reminder for visitors of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage and culture. Local men wear their gutra (headdress) with a neat, sharp fold and use a black agal to keep it in place. The agal was originally made from rope and used by Bedouin to tether their camels. In winter, men often wear a red and white agal made from heavier fabric.

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The sport of sheikhs Symbolising the spirit of Arabia, this ancient sport of sheikhs enjoyed an exciting resurgence in the 1980s when Dubai’s ruling Maktoum family upped its support of local traditions and customs. There are now several purpose-built facilities for races throughout the UAE. The camel farms, which were plentiful at Nad Al Sheba, once home to the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup, have all largely relocated to facilities in Lisailly, which is approximately 35km from Dubai on the Al Ain Road. The facility includes three race tracks between three and eight kilometres in distance. Each adrenaline-fuelled race comprises brightly coloured robot jockeys that replaced the child jockey a few years ago, being carried along at breakneck speeds of approximately 60kmh. In the ’80s, there may have been 30 or 40 races per season with a Range Rover

a typical prize for the winner. Now, the prize for winning the final race of the day is approximately AED400,000 as well as a car. Twelve years ago a camel may have cost a few hundred dirhams. Five years ago, it would have been AED1.5 million or AED2 million. Now it can be anywhere from AED7 million upwards. Spotting a potential winning camel requires a great deal of patience. There are two important traits to look out for: large, powerful hind legs and a broad chest, which indicates a big lung capacity. A camel’s reflexes are also important as well as its attention to its surroundings. If the camel ticks all of these boxes, training will begin from the age of 18 months. The animals are normally trained in groups of 20 or 30 and trainers use contemporary techniques including swimming pools, treadmills and massages to ensure the camels are in peak condition.

In the ’80s, there may have been 30 or 40 races per season with a Range Rover a typical prize for the winner. Now, the prize for winning the final race of the day is approximately AED400,000 and a car

CAMEL MAGNETISM To get up, a camel must first straighten its hind legs and then jerk up its front legs. This allows the animal to rise, even when heavily loaded The UAE has approximately 15 racetracks with spacious and wellkept stadiums. They are located on the city outskirts and have rest tents, connecting roads, electricity, water, telephone lines, equipment for live television and radio broad-casts and a team of doctors. Race distances vary between four and 10 kilometres and may include anywhere from 15 to 70 camels or more.

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HE RI T A GE / DIS COVE R

Cheers and chukkas Aside from camel racing, visitors can get up close and personal with camels on a trip to one of the vibrant, year-round camel markets. At the bustling Al Ain market, in the neighbouring emirate of Abu Dhabi, camel owners meet to barter, buy and sell. Traders can still be seen hand weaving camel halters and lead ropes or offering to sell their large, colourful and inexpensive cotton camel blankets. There is also an annual camel festival in Madinat Zayed in the neighbouring emirate of Abu Dhabi, which usually takes place in December. This includes a rare camel beauty contest and shows. Alternatively, contact a local tour operator and enquire about nostalgic camel treks to traditional Bedouin camps nestled in the sand dunes, or visits to Bedouin villages and their camel farms. Many desert safaris also combine camel riding with sand-boarding, dune driving and barbecues under the stars.

A great option for children is a visit to The Desert Ranch (04 4274055), located at Al Sahra Desert Resort on Al Lahbab Road, off Al Ain Road in Dubai. Featuring 2.4 sq km of natural desert, this ecotourism site is home to a collection of friendly camels. Visitors can meet the flock, learn their language, groom them, feed them and, for anyone feeling brave, even cuddle them. There is also camel milk tasting. Visitors can also head to the Dubai Polo Academy (050 8879847) near Arabian Ranches and try their hand at camel polo. Two team members ride one camel in this surprisingly popular sport. One sits in front and steers while the other attempts to hit the ball. At the end of a chukka – each period of the game – the players swap roles. There are four chukkas per game and the camels, who have a tendency to stop and sit at any given moment, are allowed two ‘lie downs’ in any one chukka. There is a big ball which the camels often kick. Players wear proper team shirts and look like polo players. Novices can also play, ensuring a memorable experience working with traditional transport in an unconventional fashion.

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DIS C O VER / CULTURE

Stars & â&#x20AC;&#x2122;scopes The moon and the stars are a beautiful and mesmerising sight, but never more so than in the Middle East where their rich cultural significance dates back to pre-Islamic, ancient civilisation

Q W o r d s b y K at h r y n R o b e r t s

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CUL T URE / DIS COVE R

Astronomy is one of the most popular sciences in the world, not to mention one of the oldest. Pre-Islamic, Middle Eastern civilizations were drawn to the beauty of the night sky and noticed a series of patterns which they set about charting. “This was the start of astronomy in the region,” explains Hasan Ahmad Al Hariri, president and co-founder of the Dubai Astronomy Group. “People wanted to apply meaning to the patterns so they could understand why certain patterns and stars repeat themselves over time.” They linked the rise of Orion with the start of cooler weather and the end of the long, hot summer. They also correlated the appearance of the Scorpion constellation with the end of winter. From these observations, the ancient Arab civilisation began compiling stellar calendars. In the Gulf region, the dororo calendar divided the year into 10-day portions, each one based on the rising and setting of a star. Through the calendar, the tribes were able to forecast weather and recommend appropriate actions for the time of year such as fishing in spring when the glare of the full moon attracts sea life to the surface. “Based on the dororo, those who lived inland knew when to raise cattle, when to cultivate fruit, vegetables and dates and when to sow seeds,” adds Al Hariri. Stars, not just in Arabic culture but the world over, have also been used extensively for navigation, helping to direct caravans across the desert and ships across the sea. In the 15th century, Arabic sailor, Ahmed Bin Majid, who was born in Julphar in the north of Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE’s seven emirates, sailed to India relying on the stars for navigation. Bin Majid wrote The Book of Useful Information on the Principles and Rules of Navigation, which, in its day, was regarded as the definitive reference on sailing and navigation. He understood that at low latitudes close to the equator, the angle of the Pole Star is relatively easy to determine at night and that the Pole Star is not located exactly due north because of the precession of the earth’s axis. “The Holy Qur’an encourages Muslims to benefit from the observation of the stars in navigation,” says Dr Ulrike Al-Khamis, the Islamic and Middle Eastern arts collections advisor at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, a 30-minute drive from the heart of Dubai. “As a result, from the early Islamic period Arab-Islamic scientists have exerted much effort in observing and charting the night skies and the movement of the heavenly bodies,” she adds. While many Muslims are fascinated by the night sky, packed with cultural, religious and practical meaning, Al Hariri is quick to differentiate astronomy from astrology, the study of the positions and aspects of celestial bodies in the belief that they influence human affairs. “When Islam came in the year 610, it clearly separated astronomy, which is a science everyone should understand, and astrology, which is considered condemned knowledge. In Islam, we believe that if anyone goes to an astrologer, 40 days of his prayers will not be accepted. And if anyone goes to an astrologer and believes his predictions, that person will become a non-Muslim,” he says.

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DIS C O VER / TO URIS T TRA IL

Walk this way

Don comfortable shoes and explore the more traditional side of the city on foot

Q W o r d s b y K at h r y n R o b e r t s

Anyone with a love of culture and heritage should head to Dubai Creek, for many years considered the heart of the city with endless dhows plying its waters and an intricate network of souks and mosques lining its banks. One of the best ways to explore this culturally rewarding area is on foot, starting at Bastakiya next to the British Embassy in Bur Dubai. Charming and beautifully restored to its former glory, Bastakiya is home to many innovative wind towers, the original air-conditioning solution. Quirky cafĂŠs, art galleries, picturesque passageways and some fine examples of Arabian architecture can also be found here.

1 Bastakiya 2 Dubai Creek

From Bastakiya, walk along the bank of the Creek, past the fenced government buildings and look out for a small passage on the left that leads to the Textile Souk. Turn right at the end of the alley and see a wide pedestrian path, lined with stores selling brightly coloured fabrics, pashminas, buttons and sequins. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling peckish, browse the stores and then stop at Bait Al Wakeel for some tasty and authentic Arabic cuisine. With a pretty wooden terrace overhanging the Creek, this popular restaurant offers excellent views across the historic waterway. Appetite sated, head back into the Textile Souk and keep walking until you see the Old Souk abra station on

your right. From here there are two options for the well-heeled walker. Either continue along the Bur Dubai bank taking in the restored House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum and the Heritage and Diving Village or board an abra (water taxi) and cross Dubai Creek. The abras are small, accommodating approximately 25 passengers, and inexpensive with a mere AED1 fare to be paid onboard. The journey, which lasts just a few minutes, is fun but rustic. Ride an abra to Deira Old Souk, take the pedestrian underpass to the opposite side of the road and explore the sights and smells of the Spice Souk. A short walk away is the Gold Souk, which is packed with expensive jewellery.

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{

my dubai Mustafa Wadaa, sales manager (retail) at jeweller Damas, reveals his favourite brands and top tips for where to buy the best jewellery

As I work in the jewellery industry, I would recommend Graff for its quality. The company specialises in stones of exceptional standard and it’s renowned for having the first choice of purchasing the world’s finest uncut diamonds. Its products are exceptionally high end. At the other end of the scale, there are many emerging jewellery designers based in Dubai. You can find some remarkable pieces by local designers at the winter markets that are held at various locations throughout the UAE. I rarely go to the Gold Souk for jewellery shopping as I find it hot and difficult to find parking. On the other hand, the variety of products in the Gold Souk is better than in the malls and the tough competition amongst the jewellers means that consumers get better deals there. I recommend that all tourists visit the old Gold Souk as it’s an integral part of the city’s heritage and an interesting place to look around. It is a historical part of town that quintessentially reflects ‘Dubai – the city of gold’.

} 1&2 Gold Souk

I like shopping for electronics at Jumbo as it has a wide selection of the latest products. I don’t like shopping in the huge malls as it’s confusing to get from area to area and takes a long time. I also don’t like malls that don’t have designated areas for different types of stores – it’s much easier to shop in a place that groups similar stores together. I have three favourite brands. BlackBerry, as this has made many people’s lives easier and has revolutionised the way we communicate. Lexus is my favourite car brand as it embodies affordable luxury and their cars are reliable. My favourite jeweller is Tiffany & Co. The products are beautifully crafted, timeless and reflect affordable luxury as the price points are quite varied. I think that the DAS Collection, designed by Emirati sisters Reem and Hind, is stunning and elegant. There is another local fashion house called Warda Haute Couture in Jumeirah that produces beautiful one-off couture and bridal gowns.

I recommend that all tourists visit the old Gold Souk as it’s an integral part of the city’s heritage and an interesting place to look around... It reflects ‘Dubai - the city of gold’

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IO T I S PO

TIO C E A L O THE P O T N ER V 2011 I S O F L E L ND GET C 1-13 NO S R U O IX, 1 TA R Y H P C P U T LUXURY YHAABI GRAND R A ABU D E T R CHA AT THE

SALES I SERVICE I BROKERAGE I CHARTER I MARINA MANAGEMENT I MARINE PRODUCTS

T +971 4 348 1281 I M +971 50 459 8690 I charter@artmarine.net www.artmarine.net

the guide

shop / taste / experience / discover

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

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

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

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

New Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 4361000

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1 IBN BATTUTA MALL

04 3621900

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am

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

Downtown Dubai BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

04 3198999

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

Timings: Daily 10am to

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

04 3520222

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

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

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

Timings: Sat to Wed

LAMCY PLAZA

04 3359999

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

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

04 3444161

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

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

04 5154000

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

PALM STRIP

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

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

04 3600501

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

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

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

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

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

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

04 2249222

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

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

04 3414747

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

THE DUBAI MALL

04 3627500

THE VILLAGE

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

04 3494444

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

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

04 3418020

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

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

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T HE GUI D E / S HOP

WAFI

04 3244555

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

SOUVENIR

IDEAS

800 6422

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

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

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: NO METRO NEARBY Map reference: E3

Dubai Festival City/Deira

06 5316611

SAHARA CENTRE

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

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

AL GHURAIR CITY

04 2225222

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

SOUKS

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

04 2845555

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

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

04 2954545

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

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

04 3687070

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

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

04 2325444

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

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

04 4234666

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

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: NO METRO NEARBY Map reference: D3

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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.

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

LABLE STABLE

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

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

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

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

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

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

04 3244555

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

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 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 TEXTILE SOUK Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.

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

MARKETS

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

04 3627011

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

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

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

800 33232

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

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)

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

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

Hotel outlets & promotions

Al Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

Make your way to Choices on October 7 for the launch of Indian Night. Running every Friday, you can chow down on 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 Lovers of Italian cuisine should visit Pergolas on Thursday nights for a delicious Italian buffet for AED179 per person including unlimited selected house beverages or for AED159 per person including unlimited soft 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 Tuck into traditional Thai food at Pai Thai. Running throughout October, from 6.30 to11.30pm, prices start from 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 Who wouldn't want to 'do' lunch at one of the most stylish hotels in the world? At Armani/Peck, diners can choose from a two-course Power Lunch menu for AED130, or three courses for AED160 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

04 4262626

The Palm Jumeirah This landmark property is a genuine destination resort with a range of five-star outlets

Head to the Skyview Bar for superb afternoon tea and spectacular views over Dubai 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

04 8852222

Green Community

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

Crowne Plaza Dubai

800 276963

Sheikh Zayed Road Fancy yourself as a bit of a wine buff? Give Oscar's Vine Society a go. This cosy wine bar has happy hour every day from 6 to 7pm. Buy one selected drink and get one free 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

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

04 2625555

04 7012222

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

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

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

A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill

Deira

Desert

Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community

Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – Mediterranean Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Sanctuary – Nightclub Seafire – American The Burger Joint – American diner

04 8096100

04 3017777

Treat the family to brunch at Spice Island. Tasty food, face painting and clown performances are all part of the fun. AED149 for adults and AED69 for children aged 10 to 12 Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Dubai Festival City The Belgian Beer Café's Belgian brunch is back with delicious waffles, a tasty pork station for non-Muslims and free-flowing Belgian house beverages. This popular package costs AED249

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

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

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

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

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

04 3194000

Dubai Marina Enjoy stunning views of Dubai Marina at The Observatory’s. happy hour runs from 6 to 10pm, Saturday to Tuesday, and 6 to 8pm, Wednesday to Friday. Bottoms up! Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

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

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

09 2449888

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

Grand Hyatt Dubai

04 3171234 Oud Metha

From the 12 to 29 October, 7pm to 1am, (and 3am on weekends), you can celebrate Oktoberfest at Grand Hyatt Dubai in the hotel's fully air-conditioned tent 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 Every Friday throughout October, Sloane’s will be paying homage to Oktoberfest with The Oktoberfest brunch. Priced at AED220, it runs from 1 to 4pm Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – European Sloane's – International The Gallery – International Toro Toro – South American Sidhartha Lounge – Asian

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa

04 3995000

Dubai Marina Situated adjacent to Dubai Marina, this popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations with pools, restaurants and bars, set amidst tropical gardens 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

Located on the Dubai/Oman border, this is another popular weekend retreat for visitors and Dubai residents who want to escape the metropolis for a day, or two Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

04 3172222 Deira

Head to Shahrzad for a fivecourse set menu for a minimum of two people. Featuring a 30-gram tin of Sevruga caviar, the menu costs AED400 per person. There is also a fourcourse set menu for AED225 per person. Both menus are served daily from 7pm to 1am 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

Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel

04 4440000

Ibn Battuta Mall Al Bahou is the place to be on Tuesday nights, from 7.30 to 10.30pm. Ladies receive five free glasses of bubbly and gents can purchase four beers for only AED99 Chor Bazaar – Indian Diablo – Nightclub Mistral – Mediterranean Moroc – Lounge bar and terrace Shanghai Chic – Chinese Sicilia – Sicilian

Hilton Dubai Creek

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

Deira

Dubai Festival City

04 2271111

Head to Issimo Bar & Lounge for bottled beer and pints of draught beer for AED20 Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Cocktails Verre by Gordon Ramsay – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Catch the latest sports tournament at Studio One and enjoy bottled beer and pints of draught 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 Feel a carb marathon coming on? For indulgent Italian cuisine, visit The Gem Garden every Sunday night for all-you-caneat Italian. The promotion costs AED120 per person and is inclusive of house beverages and soft drinks. It runs from 7 to 10.30pm Al Sarab – Lebanese Gharana – Indian Mojito – Cocktails Sushi Folie – Sushi the Gem Garden – International The Q – Sports bar The Royal Budha – Thai

Drinking in Dubai / Fast facts

hyatt regency dubai & galleria

04 7011111

Indulge in Reflets’ tempting new Friday lunch comprising four courses and expertly matched wine. The meal costs AED250, plus an extra AED140 for wine and is served from noon to 2pm Al Soufra – Arabic Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire – French

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

04 8836000 Jebel Ali

This beachside retreat is renowned for fine Italian fare at La Traviata Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Shooters – American Signatures – French White Orchid – Far Eastern

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

04 3480000 Jumeirah

Enjoy a five-course Arabic menu at Al Khayal daily from 7pm to midnight. Prices start at AED340 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

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.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Le MÉridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Fujairah

DIFC

Fujairah

04 3198088

Enjoy a three-course business lunch at Vu's for AED150. The deal runs throughout October Al Nafoorah – Arabic ET Sushi – Japanese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steakhouse Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s – European

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

04 4530000

The Palm Jumeirah An opulent Turkish-themed hotel, brimming with some of the city’s finest restaurants and bars 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

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Brauhaus from October 18 to 22. AED259 buys you unlimited food and drink Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

04 2624444 Deira

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

09 2449000

Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and Indian Ocean, this peaceful resort is surrounded by natural beauty. Spice lovers should head to Swaad for tasty curries and fresh Indian breads Astros – Bar Gonu Bar and Grill – International bar grill Sapore – Italian Swaad – Indian Taste – Thai Views – International buffet

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & marina

04 3993333

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, inclusive of alcohol Barasti – Beach bar Ciro’s Pomodoro – Italian The Dhow – Seafood Waves – International

Media One Hotel

04 4271000

Dubai Media City For AED120 enjoy a two-hour unlimited eating and drinking 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

Contemporary luxury awaits at the Media Rotana with an excellent Italian restaurant in the form of Prego’s and a relaxing outdoor bar at The Terrace Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

Metropolitan Hotel Deira

04 2959171 Deira

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

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

Metropolitan Hotel Dubai

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Road

04 3165550

This sprawling five-star resort is home to an extensive selection of bars and restaurants. The latest addition is Rhodes Twenty10, overseen by British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes 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

04 3430000

The Red Lion features a beer garden with regular barbecues Al Saffa – International Don Corleone – Italian Rattlesnake – American bar Shahjahan – Indian Summer Place – Chinese The Red Lion – English pub

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

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Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim The Wharf is serving big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes or fries and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce for AED110 per person. The deal is on offer 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

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

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

04 4440111 Deira

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

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 4329430

Jumeirah Beach Residence Head to The Talk on Sunday night for seafood grills and sushi thrills. Running from 6.30 to 11pm, the buffet dinner costs AED165 per person including soft drinks and AED230 per person inclusive of selected alcoholic beverages. Children 12 and under dine for free The Talk – International West Beach Bistro – Gastro bar

Novotel World Trade Centre

04 3320000

Trade Centre Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers

Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

Oasis Beach Tower

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence Family friendly outlets with a relaxed atmosphere

One&Only The Palm

04 4401010

The Palm Jumeirah Head to Stay by Yannick Alléno for a stylish dinner or 101 for casual drinks, light snacks and views of The Palm Jumeirah. This recently opened boutique hotel is fast earning itself an excellent culinary reputation and is not to be missed 101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – European Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

Park Hyatt Dubai

04 6021234 Garhoud

Partial to a green curry? Hit the The Thai Kitchen's Friday brunch. An extensive menu of tasty Thai food, this brunch is available from 12.30 to 4pm and is priced at AED195 per person, including non-alcohic beverages and AED245 with alcohol Cafe Arabesque – Arabic The Lounge – Afternoon Tea The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

Park Regis Kris kin, Dubai

04 3771111 Bur Dubai

Oh yes, it's ladies night! Gals and their pals should head to Grandstand on Mondays from 6 to 11pm. Ladies get to enjoy a free flow of classic and flavoured mojitos

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

04 3669111

Dubai Media City Enjoy a two-course business lunch with coffee or tea for AED85 per person, Sunday to Thursday at Certo Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports Bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail Bar

radisson royal hotel dubai

04 3080000

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

Raffles Dubai

04 3149888 Oud Metha

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

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

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

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

Downtown Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC

04 4286888

04 3230111

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

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

Esca Restaurant – International

Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

Royal Ascot Hotel

Deira

Bur Dubai

04 2227171

Crazy about lobster? Then swing by Fish Market for Crazy Lobster Sundays. Throughout October diners can choose any lobster from the seafood display for only AED85 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

04 3520900

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

Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai –Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

One&Only Royal Mirage

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

Sheraton Deira Hotel, Dubai

Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International

Deira

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

04 4502000

Downtown Dubai

Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – Italian Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

04 2688888

This established property in the heart of Old Dubai offers imaginative theme nights at The Terrace Lindbergh’s Bar – Bar Star Studio Restaurant & Nightclub – Nightclub The Terrace – International

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Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

The Address Dubai Marina

Deira

Dubai Marina

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. Ciao Ristorante, meanwhile, is the property’s newest outlet, serving traditional Italian dishes 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

The Address Downtown Dubai

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai Hukama has unveiled an allnew yum cha menu for its popular Friday lunch. Delicious new treats include chilled mango and pomelo soup and traditional sweetened chocolate egg tart Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai Make Thursday nights memorable by diving into a seafood extravaganza at Na3na3. The delicious treats on offer include spicy gazpacho, poached shrimp and scallop ceviches. Prices start at AED195 including soft beverages and AED245 for selected tipples Amatista – Lounge bar Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

04 4238888

AQUARA

DIFC

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

04 3722222

Spook it up on October 27 as hip hangout Blends hosts its annual Halloween shindig

For delicious southern Thai cuisine, visit Blue Rain and indulge in a four-course set menu of hot, pungent and spicy curries, seafood dishes, and tropical fruits. The package costs from AED250 and runs daily from 6.30pm

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

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

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

04 3905600

Emirates Hills From October 1 enjoy afternoon tea at Nineteen. Against the backdrop of the picturesque golf course, you can tuck into a selection of delicious treats including freshly baked scones, farmhouse clotted cream, pastries and delicate finger sandwiches. Prices range from AED60 to AED155.

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

04 3994141

Dubai Marina

Visit Bussola for possibly the best pizza in town

04 3627900

Dubai Marina Yacht Club

Aquarium

04 2956000

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Expect stunning views over Dubai Creek and tasty seafood at this hidden gem Asha’s

04 3244100 Wafi

Contemporary Indian restaurant with a delicious menu at.mosphere

04 8883828 Burj Khalifa

Spectacular views await in the world's highest restaurant

The Fairmont Dubai

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

Sheikh Zayed Road

Towers Rotana Dubai

One of Dubai’s best Lebanese restaurants, with a live band and belly dancer

Nineteen – European The Academy – International

04 3325555

04 3438000

Sheikh Zayed Road

Enjoy curry night at Spectrum on One every Monday, from 6.30 to 8.30pm. AED150 buys you all you can eat 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

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

Traders Hotel Dubai

04 2659888 Deira

The Meydan

04 3813333 Meydan

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

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

Head to Flavours on Two for superb international cuisine each night of the week. A fun and lively environment awaits

Wafi

BarZar

04 3666730

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

04 3244100 Wafi

An authentic Italian eatery that superbly recreates dishes from the country’s 20-plus regions Bice Mare

04 4230982

villa rotana

This terraced Italian restaurant offers spectacular views over The Dubai Fountain

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

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

04 3246444

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

04 3216111

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

Baladna

Cit y dining

Souk Al Bahar

Biella

04 3244666 Wafi

A bustling café and pizzeria ideal for lunch. Alcohol is not served caramel

04 4256677 DIFC

The Palace – The Old Town

A stylish after-work bar popular with the fashionable crowd

Downtown Dubai

carluccio's

04 4287951

04 4341320

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre

Buy one drink, get one free at super-stylish wine bar, FAI. Held Sunday to Thursday, 6 to 9pm this is the perfect place for stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain

Abdulwahab & Abdulwahab 04 4230988 Souk Al Bahar

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

An elegant Lebanese restaurant with a moody atmosphere

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

Anar

Dubai Marina

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 3686505

04 3994000

A reliable Persian restaurant serving kebabs, stews and salads beside an idyllic waterway

This exclusive property tucked away on The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence is set to double in size in 2012 when its eagerly awaited extension is completed

Authentic Italian cuisine served in a family-friendly environment Carter’s

04 3244100 Wafi

A relaxed international bar and restaurant with a contemporary jazz duo and gourmet delights CAVALLI CLUB

04 3329260

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

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

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smoke signals

Momotaro

The gramercy

Souk Al Bahar

DIFC

04 4257976

Fine Japanese cuisine in a traditional setting with a terrace for dining al fresco in winter

An upmarket gastropub with a sports theme and exquisite cuisine

Okku

The Irish Village

One Sheikh Zayed Road

Irish Village

04 5018777

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this typical Irish pub

04 3198767

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

d rience expe p o h s &taste

Indulge in oysters, Parisian beef tartare and a host of desserts Persia Persia

04 3244100 Wafi

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.

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

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

Wafi

04 2956000

04 3244777

Relax at this Italian lounge and enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations

A relaxed all-day dining restaurant serving international cuisine

Inspired by film and television, this American burger bar also serves pasta, salad and pizza

Chi’Zen

La petite maison

Rivington Grill

Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates

DIFC

Souk Al Bahar

04 2329077

First-class Cantonese cuisine with views over Dubai Festival City marina

Emirates Golf Club With views across the golf course, this terraced restaurant offers an Italian influenced menu Ginseng

04 3248200 Wafi

04 4390505

04 3686575

Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Mall of the Emirates A café-style restaurant with an extensive Asian menu Karam Beirut

04 3412202

Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall Expect quick service, reasonable prices and quality food Karma Kafé

04 4230909

Souk Al Bahar This inviting restaurant features Oriental lanterns and Buddha statues

The Mango Tree

04 4267313

Souk Al Bahar Delicious Thai cuisine served in a dark, moody setting The Meat Co.

04 3686040

Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah Savour succulent steaks and spectacular views at either location the rooftop

04 3666730

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Have your camera at the ready, because this sophisticated open-air venue enjoys breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab Times of Arabia

04 3686044

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Le Classique

Rupee Room

04 3905755

Toscana

Dubai Marina

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 3802222

Emirates Golf Club Expect chic décor at this award-winning French fine-dining restaurant Left Bank

04 3686171

Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 3244100

Japengo

A stylish spot for lunch, evening dinner or simply a drink at the bar

With a focus on Lebanese mezzeh, this Arabic eatery is elegant and inviting

Jambase

A live band and dancefloor make this American-style restaurant and club unmissable

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day at this British grill

Eye the impressive cocktail menu at this stylish, funky bar

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

04 4230903

The IVY

This chic French restaurant, popular with Dubai's 'it' crowd, serves superb cuisine

A trendy lounge bar and restaurant serving Asian and Vietnamese cuisine

04 3666730

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB OCT11.indd 112

04 3666730

Planet Hollywood

04 3802222

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

Pisces

Lakeview

Conservatory

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

Serves classic Iranian salads, caviar, kebabs, stews and desserts coupled with freshly baked bread

Centimetro

04 3666730

04 2824750

A dark and moody Japanese restaurant popular with visiting celebrities

04 3666730

staisycover

04 4377511

Mahi Mahi Wafi

A contemporary seafood market offering catches from around the globe Margaux

04 4397555

Souk Al Bahar With the spirit of the French and Italian Riviera, Margaux overlooks The Dubai Fountain Medzo

04 3244100 Wafi

Contemporary Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The buffalo mozzerall is melt in the mouth and be sure not to miss the world-class tiramisu Mirai

04 4397333

Souk Al Bahar An upmarket Japanese restaurant popular with Dubai’s ‘it’ crowd. See and be seen

Expect authentic Indian cuisine and live sitar music in this unlicensed restaurant Sammach

04 4267311

Souk Al Bahar An Arabic seafood restaurant that is always busy

04 3666730

A bustling waterside Italian restaurant serving tasty pizzas, salads, pastas and desserts Trader Vic's

04 3665646

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Segreto

A lively Polynesian bar and restaurant with a fun cocktail list and good food

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Ushna

04 3666730

An award-winning Italian tucked away in a secluded corner The Boardwalk

04 2956000

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

04 3686506

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

Enjoy views over Dubai Creek and tasty international cuisine at this casual outdoor setting

Wafi Gourmet

The Cellar

Serves Arabic mezzeh, kebabs, shawarma and fish

04 2829333 Irish Village

A relaxed restaurant that evokes the décor of a medieval guildhall The Edge

04 3637770 DIFC

Expect daily menus at this modern European eatery. Reservations are essential

04 3244433 Wafi

West 14th

04 4477601

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

04 4255660 DIFC

This trendy Japanese eatery is a popular haunt amongst visiting A-list celebrities

25/09/2011 16:24

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

Attractions

EL MUNDO

050 5517406

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

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

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

04 2950516

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

04 2686826

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

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED150

per person

PARK LANE YACHT CHARTER

04 3471779

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

Timings: Until sunset Guide Price: AED2500 per

AED2,600 per boat

hour for up to 20 people

ART MARINE

RIKKS CRUISES

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

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

04 4068825

Timings: From 6am Guide price: From

AED750 per hour

BATEAUX DUBAI

04 3994994

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

050 2768111/0507035111

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

04 3295211

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

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

hour for up to 25 people

CLUB MINA

THE YELLOW BOATS

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

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

04 3993333

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

04 3511117

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

Timings: 8 to 10pm Guide Price: AED175

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

800 8044

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

04 3254975/050 1002477

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

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275

DREAMDAYS

per adult and AED90 per child

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

VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

8002080

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: AED550

050 7881175

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

Timings: Dinner cruise

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

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LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB OCT11.indd 114

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

04 4 3034888

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

04 2682880

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

04 3572233

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

04 2340812

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

04 3344330

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

04 2666655

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

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

OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 2686826

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

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6289667

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

04 2828238

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

04 2822199

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

5 6

04 2833335

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

04 3366643

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

26/09/2011 18:29

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

Flying

Swimming with sharks

ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

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

04 3422993

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

Timings: From 2.30pm Guide price: City tour

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

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for

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

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

04 2995155

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

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Timings: From 8.30am Guide price: AED800 for

first-time flyers trial flight plus AED100 for airport pass

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

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.

lessons AED960.

04 8832999

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

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: From 9am Guide price: Call for details ULTIMATE CHARTER

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

Timings: From 10am Guide price: AED750

Hot air ballooning

Paintballing

(see Sports) DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

04 3678744

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

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

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

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

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED950 per

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

04 2854949

adult. AED800 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

Shooting

04 3244755

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

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

hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

06 5487777

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

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

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

Skydiving IFLYDUBAI

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

Timings: Sun to Tue 10am

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

050 1533222

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

Timings: From 2pm to

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

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

FAMILY FUN

MAGIC PLANET

04 2954333

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

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

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

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.

SEAWINGS

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

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

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.

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

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

PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

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.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

800 LEISURE (5347873)

ACTION ADVENTURE

FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4448866

LITTLE EXPLORERS

04 4297949

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: 7 and 8.30pm

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

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

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

04 4485222

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

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

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 8pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: AED40 for first hour. AED10 thereafter SEGA REPUBLIC

04 4488484

Explore five zones and 150 amusement games at the first Sega Republic indoor theme park in the region.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Entry is free of charge, but a minimum of AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

800 382246255

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

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

04 3243222

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

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

Arts & Crafts BEAD PALACE

04 3952771

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

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

04 3447331 / 04 3410144

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

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

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

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25/09/2011 19:14

Proud to be SAFARI LEADERS

Enjoy the thrill and fun of

DESERT SAFARI Programme Includes: Dune Bashing Sand Boarding & Camel Riding

BBQ Dinner - Arabic Tea & Coffee Soft Drinks & Refreshments Photograph in Local Dress

Henna Painting & Tattoos

Dhs. 200/-

Enchanting Belly Dancing Show

Per Person

Timing: Pick up: 3:00 - 3:30pm - Drop off: 9:00 - 9:30pm Pick-up & drop-back facility included

Sheesha (Hubbly-Bubbly) & lots more entertainment throughout the evening

DHOW CRUISE DINNER OUR MOONLIT-DINNER-ON-DHOW PACKAGE INCLUDES; Continental dinner, Soft drinks, Tea and Coffee, Soft Music in cozy ambiance, Fully airconditioned lower deck, Open air upper deck. Pick-up and drop-back facility included (Deira & Bur Dubai Only) Cruising Time: From 8:30pm to 10:30pm

Dhs. 150/-

Per Person

HATTA MOUTAIN SAFARI

Programme Includes: Red Dunes Safari & Sand Boarding - Sight Seeing to various scenic locations Visit to Carpet Market & Heritage Village - Hatta Mountain Safari - Chance to Dip or Dive in fresh water pools - Lunch at 5 Star Hatta Fort Hotel Transfers from all the hotels & residences in Dubai & Sharjah Timing: 8:00am to 2:30pm

24 Hrs. Reservation

04-2629993

Dhs. 300/-

050-7548466

E-mail: optdubai@emirates.net.ae Web: www.opdubai.com

Per Person

ISO 9001:2008 Certified

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

Get Hooke d*

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

www.noboundariesoman.com

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

www.facebook.com/NoBoundariesOman

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

JAM JAR

04 3417303

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

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

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

Guide price: from AED250

per person

NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 2063455

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

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

Edutainment CHILDREN’S CITY

04 3340808

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to

8.30pm, Fri 3 to 8.30pm

Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket

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.

Ice skating (see Sports)

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

AQUAVENTURE

04 4260000

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

Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED200 for adults,AED165 for children under 1.2 metres 06 7681888

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

ICELAND WATER PARK

800 WOWRAK (969725)

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

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

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

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

Waterparks

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

rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

(7,303 yards, par-72)

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

DOLPHIN BAY

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

04 6010111

Timings: Sun to Thu

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

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 4260000

DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

04 4261030

Golf

THE LOST CHAMBERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

800 LEISURE (5347873)

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

04 3484444

04 3369773

AQUA PLAY

04 3241222

WILD WADI

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3247747

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

OUTSIDE DUBAI

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

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

ENCOUNTER ZONE

SPLASHLAND

04 3663000

(6,531 yards, par-72)

Struggling to find a tee time or looking for an alternative challenge? The UAE has other excellent courses to feed your need.

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

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.

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

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.

Faldo 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.

04 2956000

(6,800 yards, par-71) The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes, and the Creek, on at least four holes.

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

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72) (6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

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

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

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

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB OCT11.indd 119

25/09/2011 16:15

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED245

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

04 3759999

Earth Course:

(6,473 yards, par-72)

Fire Course:

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

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED495 and Fri and Sat AED795 for 18 holes

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

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

Green fees: Daily AED795 for 18 holes

Sports

Climbing WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

04 3240000

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

Timings: 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED62

for one hour THE WALL

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

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 AED600 per person ART MARINE

04 4068825

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2054646

Timings: 7am to 6pm Guide price:AED3,500 for four hours. Longer or shorter trips are available as required

Timings:8am to 6pm Guide price: AED50

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA

04 8836555

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

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED130

for 25 shots

SUMMERTIME MARINE

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

Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,500

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

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

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

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

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

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

trip (minimum) with up to six people costs from AED750 per hour

per hour

HATTA FORT HOTEL

for 30 minutes

Timings: Call for details Guide price: A four-hour

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

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

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

04 8523211

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

04 3295211

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

Archery

04 3993333

04 3065061

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

LE MÉRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA

04 8836000

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

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

SEVENS HEAVENS 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. Last year’s tournament took place from December 2nd to 4th, with England clinching victory after a thrilling 29-21 win against Samoa in the final. As the opening tournament of the IRB Sevens, many of rugby’s powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand, England, France, Wales and Australia, fly in to compete for the Emirates International Trophy. The standard was raised even further in 2009 as Dubai hosted the Rugby World Cup Sevens. The men’s tournament featured a series of upsets including underdog Wales taking the Melrose Cup. Meanwhile, Australia won the first women’s competition to be held in a Rugby World Cup Sevens.

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expe r ience/THE GUIDE

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

04 8327171

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

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

riding from AED200

Horseriding

Ice Skating

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

AL NASR LEISURELAND

04 3618111

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

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.

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED400

FORMULA ONE

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED25 for two

04 4485111

JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

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

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

EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Timings: Lessons from 7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 3371234

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire

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

DRAG RACING

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED300

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED7,500 YAS DRIVING ACADEMY

DUBAI ICE RINK 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

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

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.

16. Sailing 17. Horse racing 18. Polo 19. Karting

Timings: See website

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

GALLERIA ICE RINK

Mountainbiking

04 2096000

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

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

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

Guide price: AED300 per

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

Karting

Polo

DUBAI AUTODROME

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

04 3678744

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

04 3618111

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

050 5592131

02 5629050

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

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

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

30 minutes

Call for season information

Mini Golf

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

DESERT RANGERS

04 8523221

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

04 3402408

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

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

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

122

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB OCT11.indd 122

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

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

04 3941669

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

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

04 3989146

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

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 3295211

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

Guide price: AED6,400

for four hours

Shooting JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

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

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

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

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

Skiing SKI DUBAI

04 4094000

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

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight. Guide price: AED100 for entry to snow park for adults, AED90 for children; AED180 for adults and AED150 for children for two hours on the ski slope

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

Guide price:

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

25/09/2011 19:13

EXPERIENCE IT!

IN THE HEART OF MOTORCITY, THE DUBAI AUTODROME OFFERS A WIDE VARIETY OF ADRENALINE-PUMPING EXPERIENCES • Track Activities On A FIA Race Circuit • Indoor & Outdoor Karting Tracks

• 4,000 Sq Ft Lasertag Arena • Conference & Hospitality Suites

Call 04 367 8700 or visit www.dubaiautodrome.com

experience may 2010 | issue 69

shop taste dubai edition

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-S TAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

duba

JuLY JuLY 83 | issue 2011

OCTOber

2011 | iss ue 86

| issue

dubai

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OCTOber 2011

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

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

pro- art gallery

04 3450900

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

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

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

GALLERY 76

04 3470209

04 3444398

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

Timings: Sat to Wed,

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

satellite

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

showcase GALLERY

04 3488797

Located on Jumeirah

04 3468649

Exhibits striking artworks that feature in museums and international collections.

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

Timings: Sat to Thu

10am to 5.30pm

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

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

art select

04 3449888

Map reference: C2

GREEN ART GALLERY

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

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

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

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

050 6453014

ARTSPACE

lawrie shabibi

04 3230820

050 4670272

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

Timings: Call for details Map reference: C2

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

AYYAM GALLERY

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

MAJLIS GALLERY

the Art source

04 3398399

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

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

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

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

Timings: See website Map reference: D2

marsam mattar

04 3955811

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

THE RED GALLERY

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

04 3988331

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

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

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

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

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

CARBON 12

050 4644392

Features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.

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

meem gallery

THE THIRD LINE

04 3477883

04 3411367

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

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

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

the pavilion downtown dubai

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

the mojo gallery

www.pavilion.ae

04 4257888

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

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

04 3536233

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

04 3477388

04 3236242

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

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

04 3408660

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

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

OPERA GALLERY

04 3230909

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

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

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB OCT11.indd 127

25/09/2011 16:16

TOTAL ARTS

AL MANSOUR DHOW

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

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

04 3475050

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

04 3470209

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

Timings: Daily 10am

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

04 3535383

04 2057033

LOCAL SPEAK

Timings: Daily boarding

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

04 4068825

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

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

04 3939860

Local flavour

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

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED150

Mall of the Emirates 04 3414777

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

04 3368406

04 2949888

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

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

02 4448866

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

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: Call for details SEAWINGS

04 8832999

Fly from Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in the south west or Dubai Creek in the north east and explore the city from up high.

Timings: Flights depart from

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

Water AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE

04 3243000

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

Timings: Daily 8 to 10pm

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

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

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

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

ALPHA TOURS

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

CULTURE

CREEKSIDE LEISURE

Air

04 3244187

Timings: From 7am

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

CITY TOURS

THE BIG BUS COMPANY

Timings: Daily boarding 8pm Guide Price: AED200

Map reference: B2

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3666546

dinner cruise

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

04 3595656

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

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

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

Land

Labneh Traditional yoghurt drink, usually served with Arabic food

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR

Majlis A room or seating area usually used for entertaining guests

04 3536666

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

Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and

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

04 3572200

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

Timings: Call for details Guide Price: Call for details

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

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3511117

Timings: Daily boarding

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

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

Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

04 3536666

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

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am

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

MUSEUMS

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

DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

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

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

04 3453636

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

04 3531862

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

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide Price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) Map reference: E1 HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE

04 3937151

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

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

Contact: 04 3536666

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am

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

04 2260286

Located in Deira in the north east, visit Dubai’s first school and traditional house, which is home to fascinating life-size dioramas.

Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to

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

MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

04 3946343

04 3937139

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

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

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

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

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

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

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25/09/2011 16:16

Mesgarzadeh Luxurious Persian Rugs and Fine French Antiques Since 1915

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

DUBAI TOURIST MAP

N W ATLANTIS THE PALM

HOTELS

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

FOR BOOKINGS 04 2854949 www.ballooning.ae

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

35 50

JUMEIRAH BEACH 73 39 22 8

64 5 63

ROAD TO

HIGHWAY

RESORT & SPA

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

INTERCHANGE 6

METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK

AL WASL ROAD

8 9

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

10 20 42

EMIRATES HILLS

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

37 17 11

SALIK

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

A1 B1

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

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

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

IRA TES

TO AIRPORT

AL KHAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

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

DUBAI SPORTS CITY

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

8 • BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

N W

HI GH W AY

8 THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI JUMEIRAHAUTODROME ARABIAN RANCHES BEACH GOLF CLUB

SKYDIVE DUBAI

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

TIMES SQUARE CENTRE

E AT

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

HIGHWAY

10 GREEN COMMUNITY

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

DUBAILA

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

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

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

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

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

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

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

12 11

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

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

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

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

UMM SUQEIM

68 41

IBN BATTUTA

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

A1 D1 B2 A1

AL SUFOUH ROAD

21 DUBAI MARINA MALL

5 38 77 49

DUBAI MARINA

31 JEBEL ALI GOLF

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

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

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL BURJ AL ARAB MADINAT JUMEIRAH

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

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5