Concierge Abu Dhabi April 2014

APRIL 2014 | ISSUE 89

APRIL 2014 | ISSUE 89

T H E

L U X U R Y

ABU DHABI EDITION

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

T H E L U X U R Y F I V E - S T A R V I S I T O R M A G A Z I N E LICENSED BY INTERNATIONAL MEDIA PRODUCTION ZONE

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ULT IM AT E F EMININIT Y

LIMELIGHT GALA 18K white gold watch Case set with brilliant-cut diamonds

piaget-gala.com

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PIAGET BOUTIQUES: Abu Dhabi: Avenue at Etihad Towers, 02 667 0044 Dubai: The Dubai Mall, 04 339 8222 Dubai: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Atlantis 04 422 0233, Burj Al Arab, 04 348 9000 Burjuman Centre, 04 355 9090, Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 1211 Abu Dhabi: Al Manara International Jewellery, St. Regis Hotel, 02 6673535

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ULT IM AT E F EMININIT Y

LIMELIGHT GALA 18K white gold watch Case set with brilliant-cut diamonds

piaget-gala.com

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PIAGET BOUTIQUES: Abu Dhabi: Avenue at Etihad Towers, 02 667 0044 Dubai: The Dubai Mall, 04 339 8222 Dubai: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Atlantis 04 422 0233, Burj Al Arab, 04 348 9000 Burjuman Centre, 04 355 9090, Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 1211 Abu Dhabi: Al Manara International Jewellery, St. Regis Hotel, 02 6673535

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abu dhabi tourism & culture authority presents

A H I STOR Y OF THE WO R LD IN

1 00

OB J E C TS

23 april – 1 august 2014

manarat al saadiyat saadiyat cultural district abu dhabi saadiyatculturaldistrict.ae

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APRIL 2014 / ISSUE 89 / ABU DHABI EDITION

PU BL ISHER ROB N ICHOL A S

EDI TOR I A L GROU P EDI TOR FAY E BA RT L E SE N IOR EDI TOR JACQU E L IN E C A ST E L LUCCI A EDI TOR OL I V I A CU T HBERT PRODUC T ION EDI TOR DE BR A FR E E M A N-T HOR PE F E AT U R ES EDI TOR R ACHE L I NGR A M

Welcome

CON T R IBU TOR S GE M M A GR E E N WOOD ME L ISSA SL E IM A N

ST U DIO SE N IOR A RT DIR EC TOR A N DR E A T E M PESTA A RT EDI TOR TON Y SA N T I AGO DESIGN ERS K AREN ALMAZAN R I TZ GU T IE R R EZ PHOTOGR A PHER A DH A M SN E E H PRODUC T ION COOR DINATOR SOH A IL K H A N

A DV ERT ISING HOT EL R E L AT IONSHIP M A NAGER ROSE T ERO R EL AT IONSHIP M A NAGER S DA R RY L W IL L E Y C A R M E N SILVA AYSH A CH A P T I

CIRCU L AT ION & M A R K ET I NG C A ROL MIL A N CHR IST I N E H A M A DA

CONCIERGE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY AND COPIES ARE DISTRIBUTED FREE OF CHARGE IN FIVE-STAR AND SELECT FOURSTAR HOTELS. ALTHOUGH EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF INFORMATION CONTAINED IN CONCIERGE MAGAZINE, THE PUBLISHER CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS OR INACCURACIES. ARTICLES CONTAINED WITHIN CONCIERGE MAGAZINE ARE UNDER COPYRIGHT TO THE PUBLISHER AND CANNOT BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM, WITHOUT FIRST OBTAINING WRITTEN PERMISSION.

As a visitor and guest in Abu Dhabi you are staying in a destination of distinction, which I hope you will find so engaging and exciting that you return time and time again.

We in the UAE capital believe our homeland is something of a welcome contradiction for travellers. It is a place where deep-rooted Arabian heritage is deftly woven into a rich destination tapestry complete with luxury accommodation and world-class leisure attractions.

Abu Dhabi is blessed with a diverse landscape. We have 400 kilometres of pristine coastline, over 200 natural islands, vast tracts of serene desert, tranquil oasis towns and a vibrant, cosmopolitan capital city. I hope during your stay you are able to experience as much of this variety as possible.

In many ways, this emirate is several destinations in one, from the rustic charm of Al Ain, the birthplace of the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the breathtaking vastness of the Liwa Desert in Al Gharbia with its mountainous dunes, to the energising pace and brightness of our capital city.

We all share a desire to make you feel as welcome as possible and hope you leave with a positive, lasting impression of our homeland, traditions and people.

In the pages of this magazine, you will find an overview of the emirate’s widespread appeal and I’m sure you will find much to inspire and entertain you.

I wish you a relaxing, enjoyable and memorable stay in Abu Dhabi.

Mubarak Al Muhairi Director General Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority

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

by BPA Worldwide www.bpaww.com

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

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

‫ أﻃﻠﺐ ﻧﺴﺨﻪ‬.‫ﻣﺠﻠﺔ ﻛﻮﻧﺴﻴﺮج ﻣﺘﻮﻓﺮة ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ ﻛﺬﻟﻚ‬ .‫ﻣﻦ ﻣﻜﺘﺐ 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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IN FOCUS Image: John Singer Sargent, Watercolour on paper, circa 1905 to 1906, Corbis images

The Bedouin heritage of the Emirati people is never far from the surface in Abu Dhabi.

Locals are fond of recalling the tribal days of their nomadic ancestors when families would gather around the fire at the end of the day to share food and swap stories.

Many of the region’s linguistic traditions stem from this early way of life too, when travellers and traders from all cultures crossed paths on their different journeys through the Arabian desert, sharing the knowledge, language and traditions that have shaped the modern Middle East.

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NOW OPEN

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what once was the heart of shopping

still is

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WORLD TRADE CENTER MALL

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Khalifa Bin Zayed the First Street, Abu Dhabi

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Contents APRIL 2014 / ISSUE 89

12/Essentials

Top attractions and events in the UAE capital

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Discover 18/Capital of culture

Work on Louvre Abu Dhabi continues apace as an exhibition of the new museum’s debut collection goes on display in Paris

20/Word for word

Master a few basic phrases and leap the language barrier

26

Experience 28/National treasures

Each of the UAE’s seven emirates has a distinct character and appeal

34/Out of the ordinary

Exotic therapies are the order of the day at Abu Dhabi’s top spas

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Contents APRIL 2014 / ISSUE 89

38

Shop 40/In the moment

A series of beautiful images capture life’s milestone moments in Baume et Mercier’s evocative new campaign, shot by renowned photographer Peter Lindbergh

44/A charmed life Charm jewellery presents an opportunity to marry style with sentiment

50/Clock work

Concierge explores different stages in the watchmaking process in this month’s photo essay

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Taste 62/A good egg

Diners can now enjoy premium caviar cultivated right here in the UAE

68/Tipping the scale

Feast on fresh fish in Abu Dhabi’s five-star seafood restaurants

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

73 The guide

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88/My life in Abu Dhabi

Concierge talks to local fashionista Parisa Birgani about Abu Dhabi’s shopping scene

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Essentials

APRIL

E X PER I E NCE Golf

Abu Dhabi is a golferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise, offering some of the best facilities in the region. At Abu Dhabi Golf Club, players can follow in the footsteps of Rory McIllroy, Phil Mickleson and Pablo Larrazabal who won the HSBC Abu Dhabi Golf Championship here earlier this year, or put their swings to the test on another championship course at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (pictured). Designed by Gary Player, this ocean-front course weaves its way along the coast past five-star hotels interspersed with areas of protected natural landscape. Another coastal course awaits at Yas Links while over at Al Ghazal Golf Club, players can opt for a more Arabian-themed golf experience on the sand course. In Al Ain, visitors can enjoy a round in the foothills of the soaring Jebel Hafeet Mountain at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, which also offers a nine-hole par-three academy course. Visit: golfinabudhabi.com

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TA S T E

UPCOMING EVENTS

Shisha

MIDDLE EAST FILM AND COMIC CON

The sweet, fruit-tinged aroma of shisha is a familiar scent in Abu Dhabi where smoking water pipes has long been a popular pastime. Visitors looking to tap into this local tradition can pay a visit to one of the city’s shisha bars, including Ess Lounge (02 5098888) at Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri (pictured) or head to one of the capital’s Arabic restaurants, such as Al Mayass (02 6440440) at Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel and Resort and Cedar Lounge (02 6543223) at Fairmont Bab al Bahr.

April 3 to April 5 The third annual Middle East Film and Comic Con promises to be even bigger and welcome even greater stars than ever before. The popular culture festival is a must-visit for fans of film, television, comics, manga, animation and pop art.

Visit: mefcc.com

G U L F F I L M F E S T I VA L

SHOP Watches

Pick up the latest watch designs unveiled at Baselworld in Abu Dhabi’s luxury malls. The Galleria is home to a large number of leading watch brands, including IWC Schaffhausen, Officine Panerai and Roger Dubuis, while over at Avenue at Etihad Towers, shoppers can browse the new collections from A. Lange & Söhne, Breguet and Jaeger-LeCoultre (pictured).

D I S C OV E R

April 9 to April 15 Enjoy the best of contemporary cinema from across the region at the seventh edition of the Gulf Film Festival in Dubai. Movies made by professional filmmakers and student contributors will be screened. There is also a host of workshops and talks to attend.

Visit: gulffilmfest.com

A B U D H A B I I N T E R N AT I O N A L BOOK FAIR April 30 to May 5 The capital is a key hub of the Middle East’s book trade and the annual Abu Dhabi International Book Fair encourages literary aficionados to take part in workshops and explore over 500,000 titles on display.

Visit: adbookfair.com

Sougha

Until recently, local occupants of the region had little access to imported goods from the outside world and had to make do with palm leaves, animal skins and rudimentary textiles to create everything from clothing and tents to food and water containers. Today, that tradition has been revived by Sougha, a local initiative designed to bring back the art of Bedouin weaving and preserve this historic skill. Contact: sougha.ae

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE LIVE May 23 The American artist is expected to draw huge crowds when he returns to Abu Dhabi for his second performance in the city.

This time he will take to the stage at du Arena on Yas Island.

Visit: thinkflash.ae

B L A C K S A B B AT H L I V E May 29 Also in May, legendary heavy metal aficionados Black Sabbath, fronted by Ozzy Osbourne, will rock du Arena.

This will be the band’s first appearance in the Middle East.

Visit: thinkflash.ae

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SHOP

ASK THE CONCIERGE

Pink ladies

MOH A ME D BA R A K AT, SE RV I C E M A N AGE R AT SH A NGRI-L A HO T E L , Q A RYAT A L BE RI, SH A RE S HI S T OP T IP S F OR V I S I T OR S IN T HE UA E C A P I TA L

Abu Dhabi is both a destination and an experience in itself. Visitors are spoilt for choice with modern and cultural world-class attractions ranging from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Arabian Wildlife Park to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the cultural hub of Manarat Al Saadiyat.

The Heritage Village is the best place to catch a glimpse into the emirate’s past and experience traditional life before the discovery of oil changed the mode of existence for many in the area. Here, visitors can explore a traditional-style Arabian camp complete with goat-hair tents, traditional barasti buildings and an old-fashioned falaj irrigation system.

Another cultural highlight is the Souk at World Trade Centre. The newly built market stands on the sight of an historic souk and now features a mix of high-end boutiques, local food stalls and handicraft shops.

For first-class cuisine, I recommend visitors try the award-winning French fine-dining restaurant Bord Eau at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat al Beri. In addition to the superb à la carte menu and daily specials, the restaurant’s chef de cuisine prepares seasonal blind-tasting dishes exquisitely paired with excellent wines. For something more traditional, Lebanese restaurant Abdel Wahab at the Souk at Qaryat Al Beri is popular among locals and expats and features traditional Arabian dishes such as shish taouk, tabbouleh and an array of hot and cold mezze.

Visitors will find that Abu Dhabi is a dynamic, engaging and wonderfully positive place. The emirate is busy building its future as a worldclass destination and positioning itself prominently on the international tourism stage. In the years to come, a host of exciting new development projects will be unveiled while, at the same time, the capital maintains a focus on its cultural traditions and the rich local history that underpins the modern-day city.

A must-have hue for spring, as seen at countless runway shows across the globe, is pink. Stylish in a broad spectrum of shades, the Christian Dior spring/summer 2014 collection, spearheaded by Raf Simons, is a nod to the trend with an array of candy-floss coloured knits, deep pink dresses and off-white separates. Christian Dior is available at Marina Mall (02 6817477 ) and The Galleria (02 6432177). Elsewhere Emporio Armani (pictured) – also available at Marina Mall (02 6818848) and The Galleria (02 6769729) – underlines the seasonal essential with head-to-toe pastel suits, dreamy multi-layered frocks and pink-based floral prints.

TA S T E Villa Toscana

The journey begins the minute you step through the door and enter a dining room that looks as though it belongs in a grand Tuscan mansion. As the courses – beginning with an amuse bouche before moving on to the starter followed by the pasta course and then the main – arrive, it quickly becomes clear that this is no interpretation of one of the world’s favourite cuisines but the real thing, straight from the kitchens of southern Italy. Seafood fans can indulge their taste buds with the delectable fish pie, lobster ravioli or the black bass served with king oyster mushrooms, eggplant veal jus and turnip cracker while meat eaters can tuck into a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin enhanced by a masala glaze. Where: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi.

Contact: 02 6944553. Visit: stregisabudhabi.com

D I S C OV E R

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi The world’s largest indoor theme park is also home to the fastest roller coaster on the planet, offering adrenalin-seekers an opportunity to hurtle through the air at speeds of up to 240 kilometres per hour. This is one of several exhilarating rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, which offers a range of attractions for all age groups, including G-Force, which takes visitors 62 metres up through the roof of the park, affording sweeping views of Yas Island before plummeting back to earth. Contact: 02 4968000.

Visit: ferrariworldabudhabi.com

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D I S C OV E R Al Ain Zoo

One of the world’s largest collections of wild cats is housed here with African leopards, white lions and Arabian sand cats (pictured) among those on display.

In total, there are almost 200 species at Al Ain Zoo which was founded in 1968 by the late Sheikh Zayed and has since become one of the region’s leading conservation centres for a number of endangered species, including the Arabian oryx. Contact: awpr.ae

E X PER I E NCE The Empty Quarter

Known in Arabic as Rub’al Khali, this vast expanse of desert stretches from the UAE to Saudia Arabia, Oman and Yemen. Out here in the dunes visitors can enjoy a taste of life as it once was for the region’s Bedouin tribes who lived hand to mouth on the few fruits they could salvage. They can also try a number of more modern activities that take advantage of the rugged landscape. Tilal Liwa hotel offers guests and visitors the opportunity to become better acquainted with the area and make the most of its attractions via a series of tours and activities, including sand boarding (pictured), quad biking, camel and horse rides and four-by-four desert safaris. Contact: 02 8946111. Visit: danathotels.com

D I S C OV E R Etihad Gallery

Split into two sections, one dedicated to modern art and the other to antiques (pictured) sourced from around the region, this quirky gallery is a great place for visitors looking to tap into the local art scene and see works by local Middle Eastern artists. For more information visit: etihadgallery.com

TA S T E

Emirati cuisine

Traditionally prepared and eaten in the home, Emirati cuisine is not as easy to come by as might be expected. However, thanks in part to an initiative by Emirati chef, Khulood Atiq and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) visitors will find it increasingly accessible as more hotels incorporate traditional local dishes onto their menus. At present, diners can head to Mezlai (02 6907999), the luxury Emirati restaurant at Emirates Palace, which puts a five-star spin on local fare.

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Discover Jour ney back in time

Once the mainstay of Abu Dhabi’s economy, pearls remain an important part of the country’s heritage. Guests on the Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey can immerse themselves in this rich history on board a 70-year-old Jalboot pearling boat that sails alongside the city’s picturesque Eastern Mangroves while an Emirati guide recounts the story behind this time-old tradition. Visit: adpearljourney.com

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Capital of culture

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As anticipation builds ahead of the Louvre Abu Dhabi launch next year, an exhibition of works from the museum’s permanent collection goes on display in Paris In Abu Dhabi, the excitement surrounding the launch of Louvre Abu Dhabi is palpable. Huge billboards announce the impending completion of the structure in 2015 and news stories provide regular updates on construction progess as the facility begins to take shape. At Manarat Al Saadiyat, visitors can see precisely how the structure will look from detailed displays in the Saadiyat Story exhibition while preview shows offer a taste of the works currently being amassed to form the museum’s permanent collection. Here in the UAE, everyone knows that Abu Dhabi will soon be home to the Musée du Louvre’s first sister museum outside France. Now, with a selection of more than 160 works from the budding collection to go on display at the venerable institution in Paris, word of Abu Dhabi’s artistic ambitions will spread further afield and add to the buzz building back home. Thankfully, there

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1 Artist impression of Louvre Abu Dhabi 2 Louvre Abu Dhabi construction site 3 Artist impression of the rain of light effect inside Louvre Abu Dhabi 4 A Young Emir Studying by Osman Hamdi Bey 5 Paul Klees Oriental-sweet painting 6 Manarat Al Saadiyat

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isn’t long to wait. The site of the new museum, which will be the first of several major cultural institutions to open on Saadiyat Island, is a hive of activity. Four-and-a-half-thousand personnel operate in shifts, night and day to ensure that the much-anticipated landmark is finished on schedule. Already, construction on the first gallery has been completed.

Overseeing it all is multiple Pritzker-prizewinning architect Jean Nouvel. It’s clear from looking at the artist’s projections of the new structure that, for this project, Nouvel has indulged his passion for the play of light and colour to exceptional effect.

The vast domed canopy covering the building is studded with holes that allow the sun to stream through in an orchestrated design. The effect this will create has been dubbed the ‘rain of light’ in

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LO U V RE A BU D HA BI / DIS COVE R

reference to the beautiful and carefully arranged patterns that will be created on the floors and walls of the interior as the sun streams through the ceiling and moves throughout the day.

The perforated canopy will also help maintain the controlled climate inside the galleries, where the permanent collections will be on display.

Visitors passing through the main entrance hall will embark on a chronological journey through four major periods: Archaeology and the Birth of Civilisation; Medieval Days and the Birth of Islam; the Classical Period from Humanism to Enlightenment; and Modern and Contemporary Art starting at the end of the 18th century.

“The core collection covers the great civilisations from historic artefacts by ancient masters to prize pieces by contemporary artists, highlighting the common influences and similarities that arise from shared human experiences,” says a spokesperson from TCA Abu Dhabi’s Culture Sector.

Last year, when a sample of the collection compiled so far was provided by the Birth of a Museum exhibition, visitors were invited to view around 130 works spanning a broad range of styles, cultures and time periods, including a sculpture of a Bactrian Princess from the third millennium BCE and a number of paintings, among them The Gypsy by French master, Edouard Manet and A Young Emir Studying by Osman Hamdi Bey (pictured) which dates from 1878.

As the first museum to open in the upcoming Cultural District, Louvre Abu Dhabi will set a precedent for the institutions to follow. The idea is to provide a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and interchange – a theme that runs

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T H E S A A D I YAT S T O RY Divided into nine chapters, this exhibition charts the development of Saadiyat Island through a series of interactive displays.

There’s a short film that takes visitors through the project from start to finish, a detailed model that shows where everything will be and LCD screens displaying electronic books alongside other multimedia devices designed to present visitors with a vivid and detailed depiction of how this destination will look and feel in years to come.

Where: Manarat al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island Contact: 02 6575800 or visit: saadiyat.ae

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“Education and the arts are the pillars of this new project, which will see Saadiyat Island develop into a flagship destination for Abu Dhabi and a treasure for the world”

through the Saadiyat Island project as a whole.

“The Cultural District will be a place where people can connect with each other through the universal language of arts,” the sector spokesperson explains.

Once completed, the Saadiyat Cultural District will count Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed National Museum, a performing arts centre and a maritime museum among its attractions. These will operate alongside world-class academic institutions such as New York University Abu Dhabi and Cranleigh School. “Education and the arts are the pillars of this new project, which will see Saadiyat Island develop into a flagship destination for Abu Dhabi and a treasure for the world.”

According to the Culture Sector spokesperson: “This is at the heart of the wider vision that the late Sheikh Zayed, former President of the UAE, had for the country – to be a crossroads where diverse cultures meet and interact.”

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Word for word It may not be necessary to speak Arabic in order to get by in Abu Dhabi, but attempts to master the tongue bring social and cultural rewards

On any given day in Abu Dhabi, visitors are likely to come across at least five different languages. Various Indian dialects, European languages and Asian tongues are among the many spoken words that fill the streets in this cosmopolitan city, uniting people from all over the world. Nevertheless, Arabic is very much at the heart of Abu Dhabi and, while it’s not essential to speak the local tongue to get by, mastering the basics is the key to a true understanding of UAE life.

“Learning any language tells us a lot about a society’s culture and values and, in turn, this can help visitors to gain a greater insight into the way of life in their particular destination,” says Shireen Sinno, manager at the Arabic Language Centre in Dubai.

This is particularly true of Arabic, which, she says, encodes to a large extent the values and norms of its cultures. The famous Arab hospitality, the deep-rooted faith in Allah and a marked respect for others are cultural values that we can see reflected in the local language, Sinno explains.

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COURTESY OF THE SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING, DUBAI

D I A L E CT / DIS COVE R

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DIS C O VER /DIA LECT

The traditional Arabic greeting ‘ahlan wa sahlan’ is one of many expressions that displays the warmth of Arab hospitality by combining the words ‘ahl’ (family) and ‘sahl’ (easy), so in this instance, ‘feel at home and your presence is welcomed’. Similarly, the considerate and polite expression ‘tasharrafnaa’, which is commonly said upon meeting, translates as ‘we are honoured to meet you’. Faith is ever present in Arabic, with a great many references to Allah in everyday phrases, including ‘il-hamdullillah’ (praise be to god), ‘laa samah-allah’ (God forbid) and ‘Allah y-sallimak’ (may God keep you safe).

Popular proverbs offer further insight into Arabic. According to Arabic language expert Dr Hanada Taha Thomure, nothing illustrates the language and culture better than the proverbs people use on a daily basis. One example she gives is ‘Al Jaar qabla Addar’, which means ‘neighbour before house’. This proverb is deeply rooted in Arab culture, which places great value on neighbours and considers them to be part of one’s family. Despite many changes brought about by the fast-paced life Arabs now lead, this notion of placing your neighbour before your house is still evident all around the Arab world.

The traditional Arabic greeting ‘ahlan wa sahlan’ is one of many expressions that displays the warmth of Arab hospitality by combining the words ‘ahl’ (family) and ‘sahl’ (easy)

Other proverbs such as ‘older than you by a day, wiser than you by a year’ reflects the Arab respect for their elders, while ‘my brother and I against my cousin: my cousin and I against the stranger’ reveals the strong familial and tribal ties that bind Arabic communities. Several common Arabic proverbs are familiar in other languages too. ‘Ykhaaf min Dhilli’ (afraid of his own shadow), ‘Aljamaal Jamaal ennafs’ (beauty is skin deep) and ‘El Hubb A’ma’ (love is blind) pop up in a number of European tongues.

Over the centuries, Arabic has influenced many languages, including English, Spanish, Turkish and French. During the Islamic golden age (750CE to 1257CE), which saw great leaps in science across the Arab world, the influence of the region’s language made itself felt in a huge number of other tongues

from Bengali to Swahili. In Spanish, up to 4,000 words are reportedly of Arabic origin. Many familiar and everyday words in English, including ‘cotton’, ‘magazine’, ‘sofa’, ‘sugar’, ‘lemon’ and ‘cup’ are Arabic loan words. Interestingly, the numerals used in Europe and America are of Arabic origin, while the Arabs themselves use another set, variously described as the Indic numerals, the Eastern Arabic numerals and, by Arabs themselves, Indian numbers.

Borrowing, of course, works both ways and plenty of foreign words have found their way into Arabic, although only recently has this happened on any significant scale.

“Historically, borrowing into classical and standardised Arabic has been strictly limited,” explains Dr Taha Thomure. “The spoken dialects, however, which have been

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THE DUBAI MALL | LEVEL1 | 04 330 8728 | MALL OF THE EMIRATES | LEVEL1 | 04 341 5884 | DEIRA CITY CENTER | LEVEL2 | 04 256 7281 THE GALLERIA AT SOWWAH SQUARE | LEVEL1 | 02 643 2491 | HOUSE OF FRASER AT WTC MALL | LEVEL1 | 02 627 7558

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DIS C O VER /DIA LECT

influenced by colonisation and other sociopolitical circumstances, have borrowed liberally from English, French and Italian.”

When speaking local dialects, people tend to pepper their Arabic with non-Arabic words like ‘cellphone’, ‘computer’, ‘ok’ and ‘sorry’.

Some speakers even play around with the English words and conjugate them using the Arabic system, producing words like ‘chayyik’ (check on something) and ‘mkandash’ (is air-conditioned), she adds. To the prospective student, the large number of different dialects spoken across the Arab world can seem daunting, but Arabs can generally understand each another. In any case, students will often start with Modern Standard Arabic, which is the form used in writing and most formal speech.

For visitors, it is worth trying to grasp a few basic phrases to use around Abu Dhabi.

Those who want to take it a step further and master the script, will probably find learning the Arabic alphabet easier than expected.

H A N DY W O R D S A N D PHRASES FOR VISITORS Marhaba – Hi Ahlan wa sahlan – Welcome Kayf il-Haal – How are you Tasharrafnaa – Pleased to meet you Ma’a as-salaama(t) – Goodbye Wayn – Where Shukran – Thank you Afwan – You’re welcome

According to Dr Taha Thomure, achieving a basic communication level in Arabic is actually quite easy and quick. Some of the sounds that often prove more challenging for nonArabic speakers to pronounce include, ‘ghayn’ (like the French R) and ‘dhaad’ (like the D in dull). Another sound that needs practise is the emphatic Ha sound (the noise you make when you drink something really hot).

“However, generally speaking there are no impossible sounds in Arabic and with a little practise and comparison examples, beginners usually master the Arabic sounds and alphabet system in a relatively short amount of time,” she says. Efforts to thank taxi drivers, order food and introduce yourself in Arabic do not go unnoticed in Abu Dhabi. “Learning the official language of the host country reflects the individual’s respect towards the Arabic culture, which is always appreciated.

In short, learning Arabic is a great cultural experience that adds value to one’s overall experience in the UAE.”

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Experience Water spor ts

Water skiers, wake boarders, kite surfers and other water-sports enthusiasts come together for the Al Gharbia Watersports Festival. The annual aquatic extravaganza takes place on the beautiful Mirfa beach where a live DJ, the circus-act Stomp! show, fire dancers and competitions will provide onshore entertainment to complement the action on the water.

When: April 17 to 26. For more information visit: algharbiafestivals.com

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UAE DESERT

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E X P LO R I N G T HE E MI RA T E S / E XPE R IE NCE

National treasures Each of the UAE’s vibrant emirates presents a new world waiting to be explored WORDS BY

MELISSA SLEIMAN

With its ecclectic mix of landscapes, cultures, sights and attractions, the UAE boasts a rare variety that draws visitors back to its shores time and again.

In the capital city of Abu Dhabi, visitors can take to the skies and discover the best attractions via seaplane, helicopter or hot air balloon on tailormade tours that offer a broad perspective of this engaging emirate. It’s a place where anything seems possible and where activities as diverse as drag racing at a world-famous Formula 1™ circuit, dining in the heart of the desert and island-hopping via luxury yacht can be woven into the itinerary for a single day.

It’s not just Abu Dhabi. Those that venture further afield to explore the rest of this extraordinary country will find that it is blessed with a natural diversity, making each of the seven emirates distinctive destinations and worth visiting in their own right.

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EXPE R IENCE/ EXPLO RING TH E EM IRA TES

Ajman The smallest of the seven emirates, Ajman still has plenty to offer – not least a breathtaking 16-kilometre stretch of white sandy beach to explore along the pristine coastline.

A good place to begin is Ajman Museum.

Situated in an 18th century fort, the site served as the ruler’s palace and office until 1970 and now houses displays of archaeological artefacts, historic manuscripts and weapons, in addition to historical reconstructions.

Just outside the city centre, visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere at one of the UAE’s busiest dhow-building yards. Watch as time-honoured skills are put to use to create beautiful vessels, crafted in much the same way as in generations before.

1 Ajman Museum 2 Mountain biking in Fujairah 3 Dubai spice souk

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Dubai Dubai’s rich heritage and natural bounty rubs shoulders with the cutting-edge modernity and luxury lifestyle enjoyed by today’s visitors and residents. For those looking to find out how the story has evolved, a visit to Dubai Museum in Bur Dubai offers a fascinating insight into the emirate’s rapid transformation from quaint fishing and pearl-diving village to one of the world’s most dynamic destinations.

In nearby Deira, the souks offer an incredible variety of traditional wares and souvenirs, including gold, spices, fabrics and authentic local perfumes. Also in this area is Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the oldest quarter in Dubai. Winding streets are filled with cafés,

art galleries and stunning examples of traditional architecture from the region including distinctive wind towers.

One of the most striking juxtapositions in the UAE can be found at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Bird-watchers can admire the flocks of elegant flamingos that reside here and keep their eyes peeled for some of the reserve’s 270 bird species while simultaneously taking a sweeping view of Dubai’s futuristic skyline.

The emirate is also renowned as a regional retail hub and boasts the world’s largest mall by area. Restaurants, bars and night clubs abound, offering visitors a wealth of ways to fill the day, whatever their interests.

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Fujairah Fujairah is blessed with most of the UAE’s gorgeous eastern coastline, making it a haven for adventurous beachgoers and diving enthusiasts. It is also brimming with historic, cultural and agricultural attractions, giving it a unique and enduring allure.

Built around 360 years ago, Fujairah Fort is one of the country’s most iconic sights, whereas the adjacent Fujairah Heritage Village is a beguiling mix of traditional houses, fishing boats and a vivid reconstruction of life as it was.

The magnificent Khor Kalba Nature Reserve, which is located close to the Omani border, has one of the most extensive mangrove stands in the region and boasts the rare white-collared kingfisher as one of its more prominent inhabitants, as well as a host of other species.

North of Fujairah City lies Khor Fakkan, which includes the ruins of the Khor Fakkan fort and a little further on lies the picturesque Al Bidiyah Mosque, one of the oldest mosques still in use in the UAE.

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EXPE R IENCE/ EXPLO RING TH E EM IRA TES

Ras Al Khaimah

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Ras Al Khaimah, the most northerly emirate on the UAE’s west coast, is framed by the dramatic Hajar Mountains and lies on a palm-dotted plain. Mountaineers should head for the Jebel Jais mountain cluster that reaches above 5,700 feet and even sees snow on occasions.

The emirate’s history is encapsulated in the fort-based National Museum, which is packed with archaeological treasures. The locals here are big fans of the Khatt hot springs, naturally occurring hot pools, ideal for a soothing dip.

Sharjah A must-see for any visitor to Sharjah is the Sharjah Desert Park which encompasses the Natural History Museum, the Children’s Farm, and the Arabian Wildlife Centre – home to a selection of animals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula.

Another must-see here is the Sharjah Heritage Area, a major contributor to the city earning the UNESCO Cultural Capital of the Arab World accolade in 1998.

Meanwhile, Al Hisn is a two-storey fort situated in the Al Shukh district of old Sharjah.

Constructed in 1820, the fort has now been converted into a museum to showcase local history. Exhibits include old coins and weighing scales, jewellery, arms and ammunition, alongside interesting old photographs and maps.

The emirate’s history is encapsulated in the fort-based National Museum, which is packed with archaeological treasures

4 Guard Tower, Ras Al Khaimah 5 Arabian Wildlife Centre, Sharjah

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Umm Al Quwain Located 20 minutes from Ajman, Umm Al Quwain has seven forts, an impressive beach and offers charm and tranquillity in spades. Umm Al Quwain Fort and Museum is a good first stop. The ancient fort once guarded the entrance to the old town and now houses a host of fascinating artefacts from nearby excavated sites.

To the east of the mainland peninsula is a stretch of coastline comprising sandy islands surrounded by thick mangrove forests separated by a series of creeks. The largest among seven islands is Al Sinniyah, an expanse of sand and mudflats renowned for its waterfowl. The island is home to the UAE’s largest Socotra cormorant colony and is also abundant in marine life, home to green turtles and black-tip reef sharks, among other exotic underwater species.

The emirate is an ideal spot for water sports and visitors can sail or canoe through clear, calm waters to deserted islands and explore mangrove swamps.

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Out of the ordinary Top spas across Abu Dhabi are using exotic ingredients to create unconventional therapies with fantastic results WORDS BY

RACHEL INGRAM

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CORBIS IMAGES

E X OT I C S PA S / E XPE R IE NCE

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Atarmia Spa More than a decadent dining ingredient, caviar has proven anti-ageing qualities that make it a valuable beauty tool. While the thought of smearing fish eggs on one’s face may seem unappetising, the results will more than likely dispel any qualms. Packed with protein and antioxidants, caviar helps to improve the overall texture of the skin, evening out the tone and smoothing fine lines. At Atarmia Spa, visitors can take advantage of this in the signature Caviar Sublime Facial, a luxurious treatment that firms, hydrates, lifts and evens out the skin

tone. During the treatment a potent formula containing caviar is applied to the face which moisturises and calms the skin while the movements of a Kerstin Florian AcuLift Massage have a regenerative effect, encouraging blood flow and boosting the supply of nutrients to the cells. The result is a much more healthy and luminous complexion.

Where: Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas When: Daily, 10am to 11pm / Price: Caviar Sublime Facial, 120 minutes AED990 / Contact: 02 4071170

Rayana Spa Revered in India as ‘holy powder’, turmeric has countless health and medicinal benefits. Found in the root of the tropical curcuma longa plant, the spice has a number of antiseptic, antibacterial and detoxifying qualities and doctors have even claimed that it helps to prevent a host of diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s and arthritis. Turmeric has valuable effects when applied to skin, too. The time-tested beauty aid helps to soothe irritations and restore vitality to tired skin. Rayana Spa’s turmeric restorative treatment capitalises on the spice’s antioxidant virtues.

The experience begins with a gentle turmeric scrub followed by the application of a turmeric mask which is left to work its magic for 20 minutes while the client is wrapped and warmed with an electric blanket and given a relaxing head massage. The spice temporarily dyes skin a mustard yellow colour but this comes off in the shower, leaving skin smooth, refreshed and healed.

Where: Hyatt Capital Gate, Abu Dhabi When: Daily, 10am to 9pm / Price: Turmeric restorative treatment, 60 minutes AED520 / Contact: 02 5961100

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E X OT I C S PA S / E XPE R IE NCE

Anantara Spa While most spa treatments are created for relaxation, Anantara Spa offers a specially built facility thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designed to shock the body into action: the ice cave. The best time to visit the cave is after enjoying a royal hammam experience; an Arabian tradition where the body is exposed to various forms of extreme heat through the use of a steam room, Jacuzzi and a hot stone slab upon which a scrub and massage is given. By visiting the ice cave after such heat exposure, the body is rapidly chilled, quickly shifting blood circulation from the skin back to the internal organs. If guests are brave enough, the therapist will apply ice to the chest and back or they can simply relax in the chilled environment and let their bodies cool more naturally. This essential step gives the body a mini-detox as impurities are flushed out of the system and a previously heat-sluggish brain is invigorated.

The hot-to-cold practice is also said to be beneficial for stimulating liver function and reinforcing the immune system, making this far more than a basic beauty treatment.

Where: Emirates Palace / When: Daily 10am to 11pm Price: Royal hammam including ice cave, 75 minutes AED690 / Contact: 02 6907978

If guests are brave enough, the therapist will apply ice to the chest and back or they can simply relax in the chilled environment and let their bodies cool more naturally

CHI, The Spa Coffee and dates are synonymous with UAE culture. Drinking Arabic coffee is an integral part of Middle Eastern life while the act of eating dates has religious connotations as, traditionally, these are the first food consumed

by Muslims when breaking the Ramadan fasts.

At CHI, The Spa, these local favourites take on fresh meaning as key ingredients in two exotic therapies. For those looking to flush the body out, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Arabic coffee scrub, which harnesses the natural detoxifying power of coffee. Caffeine and tannins assist in the removal of excess body fluids and, as a result, help to reduce cellulite. Guests seeking a

soothing, nourishing therapy can opt for the Arabian Date Body Wrap, which blends dates with coconut milk, almonds and vanilla to enrich skin with natural vitamins and minerals, leaving it hydrated and enriched, not to mention perfumed with the sweet, subtle aroma of the sugary fruits. For the best results, book in for both treatments and enjoy an indulgent session of pure pampering.

Where: Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi When: Daily, 10am to midnight / Price: Arabic coffee scrub, 45 minutes AED400 and Arabian date body wrap, 60 minutes AED500 / Contact: 02 5098900

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Shop Loewe

Bold colours take centre stage in Loeweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention-grabbing summer handbag line. The Acids Collection celebrates the simple appeal of primary colours paired to maximum effect on the Spanish brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature designs, including the Bohemianstyle Dunas hobo bag and the perennially popular Amazonia model. Where: Available from The Galleria. Contact: 02 4124015

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In the moment Concierge heads to Paris to dine with Baume et Mercier as the luxury watch maison celebrates the launch of its new campaign with acclaimed photographer Peter Lindbergh

World-renowned photographer, Peter Lindbergh, has spent his working life stripping away artifice.

Since the day he shot that career-defining image featuring the up-and-coming supermodels of the day as a gaggle of girls on the beach, his output has been characterised by a dedication to the real, tangible and unembellished. The shoot, which showed the models in loose white shirts, their hair scraped back and carefree grins in place of the customary stiff-lipped pouts, was a dramatic departure from the stylised fashion photography of the time. “Back then, at the end of the ’80s, I just wanted to do something different,” says Lindbergh. “I no longer wanted to photograph women in haute-couture, laden with diamonds, carrying crocodile handbags. I wanted to bring their natural beauty to light.” It was this element of honesty and authenticity, honed over a lifetime spent shooting many of the world’s most beautiful and high-profile women, that brought luxury watch maison Baume et Mercier to his door with a request to shoot a new campaign marking a fresh direction for the brand.

The brief was simple – to create a series of images that would encapsulate the brand’s premise ‘life is about moments’ by focusing on a different celebration in each. Now, following a successful collaboration in which Lindbergh and Baume et Mercier enjoyed what brand CEO Alain Zimmerman describes as a relationship based on ‘mutual understanding and genuine affection’, the team is ready to unveil the final works to the public. Before this, however, a select media circle was invited to preview the campaign at an intimate dinner held in Hotel de Vendôme in Paris last month.

Lindbergh’s attendance at an event such as this, however low-key and exclusive, is rare, but for Baume et Mercier he made an exception. The evening got underway with canapés, drinks and a chance to meet and talk to the famous photographer whose natural ease and unassuming manner was entirely without the aloofness that might be expected from someone venerated as a master of his field. Around the edges of the room, the photographs, discreetly displayed on easels, provided a subtle reminder that these are not just campaign images but works of art in their own right.

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BAUME ET MERCIER CAMPAIGN IMAGE

BA UME E T ME RCI E R/ S HOP

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One shows a newly married couple in a car on their wedding day. The image captures the first moment in which the pair is really alone after the fanfare of the ceremony when, just for a short while, they can escape all the guests and celebrate together. Neither looks at the camera. The man’s eyes are down and a shy smile conveys his pleasure while the woman’s gaze is concentrated ahead as though looking towards their future; her head bent towards her new husband in a gesture of intimacy.

It’s easy to build a narrative around this image. The aim, says Zimmerman, is to tell the story of this couple and every couple on their wedding day, inviting the viewer to participate in the action of the photograph and engage with the emotions it conveys.

It’s the same story for all the pictures in this campaign, each of which is centered on a

celebratory moment that people can relate to. “When you look at these pictures it’s not the beauty of the models or the scenery that you notice. You look at them to understand and to feel what is taking place. That is what this campaign is all about and what Baume et Mercier stands for – feelings and emotions,” Zimmerman explains.

Each image captures a different celebratory occasion that anyone, anywhere in the world, can comprehend. “At the very start, we identified those landmark moments that are common to everyone in the world, irrespective of region or religion. Anniversaries, birthdays, marriages, births and self-accomplishments – these are universal milestones and achievements that we can all relate to while things like Eid, Chinese New Year and Christmas are specific to certain groups of people and so we’ve left them out for now.

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1 Baume et Mercier Clifton 10152 2 Baume et Mercier Clifton 10139 3 Baume et Mercier Linea 10092 4 Peter Lindbergh on set at the Baume et Mercier campaign shoot capturing the wedding image 5 Baume et Mercier wedding campaign image 3

“There is a flexibility in the visuals,” he continues, pointing out that, although a number of them are dedicated to women, such as the birth shot, others, including the wedding and birthday party image appeal to both, while the self-reward visual is much more male-focused. The latter, featuring a handsome middle-aged man driving his vintage sports car is the shot Zimmerman believes will have most resonance in the UAE. It’s a simple yet compelling depiction of wealth and success that portrays Baume et Mercier as the brand of choice to celebrate personal achievement.

As a whole, however, the campaign feels slightly more female-focused, a ref lection of the brand’s renewed commitment to women’s watches. Later in the year, an entirely new line of ladies’ timepieces will

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BA UME E T ME RCI E R/ S HOP

be unveiled featuring a fresh name, shape and image. “As the collection stands, we only have the Linea and a little bit of the Hampton and Clifton lines to offer women. However, come September/October we will redress the balance,” says Zimmerman, adding: “The portfolio will never be 50:50 because men’s watches will always be that much stronger but Baume et Mercier prides itself on being a legitimate ladies’ watch brand and we need the collections to reflect that.”

A little digging into the brand’s past reveals a longstanding relationship between Baume et Mercier and women. “Very early on, Baume et Mercier established its female vision with elegant collections dedicated to women,” says Alexandre Peraldi, design director at the brand. The Baignoire model, launched in the 1920s, embraced the era’s emerging vision of a new, emancipated female and set a precedent for pioneering female designs at Baume et Mercier. This had a lot to do with the new collaboration between William Baume, a fourth generation watchmaker and a man with no horological experience whatsoever named Paul Mercier.

What Mercier did have, however, was a flair for feminine fashions and he quickly set about translating his know-how from the world of women’s couture into the relatively

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6 Baume et Mercier Linea 10011 7 Baume et Mercier CEO Alain Zimmerman 8 Baume et Mercier design director Alexandre Peraldi 9 Baume et Mercier museum collection, known as The ‘Secret’ wristwatch with cover, circa 1960. This piece formed the inspiration behind the more modern Linea Collection 10 Baume et Mercier campaign image

“For women, a watch is as much a jewellery piece as a time-keeping device and not simply about producing a smaller version of the men’s models”

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new realm of ladies’ watches. “Mercier understood that, for women, a watch is as much a jewellery piece as a time-keeping device and not simply about producing a smaller version of the men’s models. Creating a new ladies watch is much more challenging than designing a timepiece for men, who are attracted more by well-crafted horological features. Women look at a watch much more as an accessory and will pay more attention to features such as the geometry, thickness and elegance of design,” Zimmerman says.

A strong ladies line has been in the pipeline since 2009, when Baume et Mercier launched a new five-year strategy that has seen it realign itself as a luxury brand and place greater emphasis on the concept of celebration with the ‘life is about moments’ tag line. The focus reinforces the centrality of feelings and emotions to the brand’s image, concepts that have long underpinned Baume

et Mercier but never been spotlighted in this fashion till now. According to Lindbergh: “Photographs are truly magical when they enable moments that cannot be seen with one’s eyes to be captured.” This is precisely where the power of the campaign rests – in the irresistible tug to engage with these images and project personal experiences onto the familiar occasions they represent.

Perhaps the most evocative image in the sequence is the birth celebration shot. The moment was the most challenging to capture because of the young model but Lindergh managed to get the shot in the minutes after he awoke from a nap. The look on this child’s face is one that mothers recognise and respond to instantly, says Zimmerman. It’s an interaction that characterises the entire sequence, where each image prioritises the viewer over the subject and invites their interaction. From the start, Lindbergh was adamant that there should be no celebrities in this shoot because, as Zimmerman explains: “In these pictures, the star is not the model on film but the person standing in front of them engaging with the scene and identifying with the emotions conveyed.”

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PANDORA SPRING 2014

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CHA RMS / S HOP

A charmed life From prehistoric amulets worn to ward off danger to modern-day style statements and sentimental keepsakes, charms have long been more than simple adornments WORDS BY

RACHEL INGRAM

One of the oldest forms of jewellery, the charm first made its appearance way back in prehistoric times when clothing was simply a means of protection and notions of style and adornment were still a long way off. According to historians, folk in the Neolithic age crafted charm-style talismans from bones, shells, stones and leather string and wore them to ward off evil spirits. Charms appear again around 75,000 years ago in Africa and then in Germany, where tiny motifs carved from mammoth tusks dating back around 30,000 years have been found.

In ancient Egypt, charms served a variety of purposes and were carried to promote luck, for identification and as religious symbols. Early Egyptians were great believers in the supernatural qualities of charms and would bury their dead with as many rich amulets as they could afford in the hope that it would ensure a prosperous afterlife.

In recent times, widespread belief in the power of charms has waned and they have taken on a largely style-orientated appeal. In the 1800s, Queen Victoria popularised the charm as a fashion accessory and amassed a large collection of valuable amulets which she wore on bracelets and as pendants â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a habit that quickly spread among the noble classes of Europe. In the 1950s, stylish women of the day took to attaching different pendants to bracelets as a way of marking personal milestones, investing charms with a sentimental significance. This, by and large, is the contemporary attitude towards charms, which are now worn as a fashion accessory, keepsake or a combination of the two. Whatever their reason, charm-bracelet enthusiasts will find no shortage of tiny silver keys, model animals and miniature monuments in Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high-end jewellery stores, where aficionados building their collections can browse beautifully wrought amulets in all shapes and sizes.

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Louis Vuitton

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French designer Louis Vuitton is one of the world’s leading fashion brands with a much-coveted line of luxury leather accessories that has set the standard in handbag design for 150 years.

More recently, the house has diversified into jewellery and one if its latest lines features a collection of charms inspired by its most emblematic leather lines. Among the signature Louis Vuitton handbag designs reflected in the Iconic Charms collection are the classic Empreinte tote and the much-loved Alma bag. Each miniature model is a detailed replica of the original handbag, from style and shape right down to the

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engraved pattern of the material. Another set, Travel Charms, presents a collection of minuscule gem-encrusted hot-air balloons, hand-lacquered ocean liners and diamond-studded planes, among others.

Additional charm designs are dedicated to specific moments in time, for example the love letter-inspired typewriter.

The most recent launch is the Lockit collection that ref lects the love locks tradition where couples attach padlocks to bridge railings and throw the key into the water to seal their love for eternity.

For a romantic touch, the padlock on the necklace can be removed and worn by a loved one.

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Among the signature Louis Vuitton handbag designs reflected in the Iconic Charms collection are the classic Empreinte tote and the much-loved Alma bag

Pandora One brand that embraces the ethos of using charms to commemorate occasions is Pandora, a Belgian jeweller specialising in stylish bracelets with interchangeable charms. There are more than 700 designs for collectors to mix and match, from abstract patterns and animal motifs to event-specific mementos such as birthday cakes. “Pandora’s bracelet model is a modern interpretation of the Egyptian concept. When we launched the charm bracelet in 2000, it was an entirely new idea to the market. No one else had done it and it really resonated with women,” says Stephen Fairchild, Pandora’s chief creative officer.

The bracelet chains are kept simple to serve as a blank canvas for the pendants that can be attached to them, many of which are colourfully adorned with pearl, enamel, wood, Murano glass and gemstones. With so many possible combinations, collectors are assured that each Pandora bracelet will be different.

“Pandora jewellery has an emotional and modern quality that appeals to many women. We play with elements from nature, colours, patterns and new trends to fashion and interior design, but still maintain our feminine style,” adds Pandora designer, Lone Rønnow Frandsen.

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1 & 2 Louis Vuitton Lockit charm 3 Louis Vuitton Lockit bracelet 4 Louis Vuitton Lockit necklace 5 Pandora Spring 2014 bracelet 6, 7 & 8 Pandora Spring 2014 charms 9 Pandora Spring 2014

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Tiffany & Co. In 1889, Tiffany & Co. entered the charm trade with a simple link bracelet that featured a single heart dangling from a chain. This original design bracelet is now one of the brand’s bestselling models and is kept up to date with a growing collection of charms that can be added or removed as desired.

W hile many of its charm designs play on the theme of love through engraved Tiffany & Co. hearts and locks, other subjects in the form of birthday presents, handbags, angels, animals and cars have also been introduced, bringing a playful edge to the expanding range.

Seasonal specials and collaborative collections weave new influences into the designs. Fashion designer Paloma Picasso regularly creates charms, among other jewellery pieces, for the brand. Following in the footsteps of her father, Pablo Picasso, her designs are innovative and colourful. “My jewellery is about a joy for life and a timeless beauty that transcends fashion. Tiffany & Co. has given me access to a marvellous palette of gems such as amethyst, crystal, rubellite and diamonds and the gifted hands of their skilled artisans have given me the freedom to create whatever I dream up,” says Picasso.

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In 1889, Tiffany & Co. entered the charm trade with a simple link bracelet that featured a single heart dangling from a chain

Salvatore Ferragamo

10 Tiffany & Co. New York charms 11 Tiffany & Co. charms 12 Tiffany & Co. Lexicon charm bracelet 13 Tiffany & Co. gold charm bracelet 14 Salvatore Ferragamo Sofia charm 15 Salvatore Ferragamo Varina charm 16 Salvatore Ferragamo Miniature Preziose charms

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Salvatore Ferragamo brings traditional Italian craftsmanship to the charms industry. The brand’s late founder earned a reputation as ‘shoemaker to the stars’ after high-profile figures including Marilyn Monroe and Eva Peron adopted his designs and catapulted his accessories into the international spotlight. The brand’s present-day designers pay homage to these iconic pieces through a charm collection that features tiny replicas of four key Salvatore Ferragamo accessories: the Sofia bag, the Varina shoe, the Gancino ornament and the Vara bow from the front of the iconic Vara shoe. These chic charms can be applied to a chain bracelet and are available in a variety of materials, such as silver, yellow gold and yellow gold paved with white diamonds.

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MOTHER’S AT THE TOWERS Around DAY the World in one Dinner

How would you like it if we told you that you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink on the Scott’s terrace above the calm water before enjoying a dining experience at Li Beirut, Tori No Su, and Brasserie Angélique right before heading to Quest to enjoy a one of a kind dessert? After that, our own Mr. Ray will have your after-dinner beverage ready in Ray’s Bar to top off an extraordinary culinary trip that takes you through Britain, Lebanon, Japan, France and Southeast Asia all in one go!

Price:

*AED 850 per person *AED 1250 per person including a perfected grape beverage pairing

If you book this dinner, you can stay in a Deluxe room at a very special rate, *AED 800 including a Buffet Breakfast. Promo code WORLD.

at ETIHAD TOWERS ABU DHABI

For reservations, please call +971 2 811 5666 or email JADreservations@jumeirah.com

facebook.com/Jumeirah.at.etihad.towers

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Clock work As this year's Baselworld comes to a close Concierge considers the expertise and time-tested techniques employed by the world's leading luxury watchmakers

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A. LANGE & SÖHNE

PHOT O E S S A Y / S HOP

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P E R F E C T PA R T S : A . L A N G E & S Ă&#x2013; H N E

All aspects of the production process are subject to rigorous quality checks from start to finish. Once the standard of each part has been verified, a team of master craftsmen piece together the mechanism. This procedure is carried out several times. The first assembly provides an opportunity to see whether all the parts fit together and make any final adjustments before the movements are taken apart, re-examined and cleaned again. The slightest scratch or dust particle to enter the mechanism at this stage must be removed before the parts are pieced together once more by hand

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At the heart of each A. Lange & Sรถhne timepiece is the movement. This intricate piece of machinery is composed of several hundred minute parts, each of which must be a precise size, shape and weight in order to produce the highest level of accuracy attainable. To ensure these specifications meet the required standard, A. Lange & Sรถhne crafts all quality-relevant movements in-house

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ENAMELLING: J A E G E R - L E C O U LT R E

It takes weeks of intense concentration and time-honed expertise, not to mention a lot of patience and extremely nimble fingers to make an enamel miniature. Owners looking to personalise their timepieces can request a particular image to adorn the watch face and have a motif or message etched onto the reverse by the manufacture's skilled enamellists

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There are few workshops in the world capable of producing miniature painting on enamel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a skill that many thought lost until Jaeger-LeCoultre decided to revive it and create a series of striking and unique watch faces in the process. There are currently three enamel miniaturists working in the brand's manufacture using traditional techniques such as cloisonnĂŠ and grand feu

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PROTOTYPE TESTING: IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

Perfection proves a hard task master at IWC Schaffhausen where around 30 gruelling tests must be carried out over a period of several months before the watch passes inspection. Only when a number of prototypes have endured extreme conditions and a pilot run has been performed to rule out any possible glitches, will the model be put into production. Among the procedures carried out is the impact test, where the watch is exposed to various rates of acceleration and the climate tests, where the models must withstand a temperature range of -20 to +70 degrees Celsius and up to 95 percent humidity. One of the most demanding operations is known as the chapuis extrĂŞme and involves placing the watch inside a small container and shaking it around for several hours

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DIAL MAKING: GLASHÜTTE

One of the most complicated tasks at the Glashütte manufacture involves the creation of the brand's beautiful dials. This highly specialised work is carried out at a dedicated manufactory in Pforzheim. Here, a team of goldsmiths and dial experts create the parts from scratch using the higest quality materials

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The average dial is 0.8 milimetres thick and must correspond exactly to the movement it will later be linked to. Once this base is complete, colour is added in a process known as galvanisation.

The dial is then placed in a kiln for one to two hours, depending on the depth of colour required. At the final stages lines, numbers and logos are added to the face.

This delicate procedure is carried out via the pad printing method in which an inked image is collected from a reverse-image engraving and pressed onto the dial

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Taste Dine in st yle

Prime cuts of first-grade beef might be the order of the day at The Capital Grill, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trendy steak joint, but the eclectic menu caters to all tastes with creative combinations such as this colourful tasting platter of tuna, calamari and king prawn.

Arrive early to have a drink at the bar, which is rapidly becoming one of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most stylish social hangouts. Contact: 02 6988888

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A good egg Next time you tuck into Siberian caviar at one of Abu Dhabi’s top restaurants, it’s likely the delicacy has been produced locally at a brand new farm that is setting world-class standards in aqua culture WORDS BY

GEMMA GREENWOOD

It may sound more like the sequel to the recent hit movie Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, but caviar farming in Abu Dhabi is in fact a brand new industry that has sprung up in the UAE capital. A far cry from the icy waters of the Caspian Sea where Siberian caviar is cultivated naturally, the state-of-the-art Emirates AquaTech aqua-culture farm is based in previously uncharted territory – the hot and arid desert.

Supported by a team of highly trained experts in the field, Emirates AquaTech has made clear its commitment to upholding environmentally friendly and sustainable production methods to create the premium product it has named Yasa Caviar. It’s a delicacy that is already being served at the finest restaurants in Abu Dhabi and there are plans afoot to take the brand to global markets.

“The idea for the farm was conceived when my brother was reading about the supply of caviar and quite simply became interested in the market,” explains Emirates AquaTech managing director Ahmed Al Dhaheri. “Viability studies revealed the huge possibilities in this field and, before long, a marketing strategy had been devised and the project was underway.”

Siberian caviar was chosen because of its global popularity and by farming this product, which is produced by the pre-historic sturgeon fish, Emirates AquaTech is helping support global efforts to protect an endangered species. “The fish are left to grow safely in a natural habitat,” continues Al Dhaheri, adding: “Most of the Siberian caviar consumed today is farmed and people accept this type of production when they know there is a good cause behind it.”

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SAYAD, EMIRATES PALACE

CA V I A R/ T A S T E

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Farm facts The Emirates AquaTech Caviar Farm, which opened in November, covers some 56,000 square metres. It is based on smaller and less-advanced facilities in Germany, which provided staff training as well as the first four batches of eggs. “We hatched the fifth batch of eggs here,” says Al Dhaheri. “They hatched when Dubai won the Expo 2020 bid so we named it the Expo 2020 batch because it reflected our commitment to what we can achieve here in the UAE.” Indeed the farm is yet another important facet of the Abu Dhabi Government’s 2030 Economic Vision 2030, which calls for a diversified and value-added economy, built on myriad growth industries. “The idea is to develop products here in Abu Dhabi in a sustainable way that can be sold both locally and internationally,” says Al Dhaheri.

1 & 3 High-tech machinery at the farm 2 Ahmed Al Dhaheri 4 Sturgeon fish at Emirates AquaTech Caviar Farm

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“The idea is to develop products here in Abu Dhabi in a sustainable way that can be sold both locally and internationally”

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WA S T E N O T, WA N T N O T

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In its quest for sustainability, Emirates AquaTech Caviar Farm ensures waste product is kept to a bare minimum at its facility. “The fish bones, heads and tails are used for fertiliser and the water in the basins where the fish are kept, which is full of nutrients, is used for irrigation,” says Al Dhaheri. The organisation is also working with a local company to use the fish skin, sometimes combined with camel hide, to produce indigenous leather products.

The caviar farm is already on its way to cornering the UAE market which, on average, consumes around 15 tonnes of caviar each year.

“We are currently producing at a rate of around one tonne a year but, once the facility is fully up and running, we will have the capacity to produce 35 metric tonnes of caviar and 700 tonnes of sturgeon meat annually, plus we will be unrivalled in our ability to produce both products year-round,” he explains.

The life cycle As you might imagine, the process of breeding sturgeon to produce caviar is intricate and precise, which is why many of the functions are automated where possible to eliminate the room for human error. Tasks such as controlling water PH levels and temperatures – which emulate Siberian waters and range between 13 and 20 degrees Centigrade, depending on the age of the fish – are computer-controlled. Feeding robots distribute nutrient-rich pellets simulating the food sturgeon consume in the wild.

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CA V I A R/ T A S T E

However, professional intervention is still required on many levels to carry out basic cleaning, weighing and checking, the separation of male and female fish as well as the collection, preparation, treatment and packaging of the Yasa Caviar itself.

The life cycle begins with the sturgeon eggs, explains production manager Muhaned Abu Awad. “Of course, the unfertilised eggs we collect are caviar, but the fertilised ones are held in egg hatching jars,” he says. Awad explains that once hatched or born, much like humans, the baby sturgeons need weaning and are fed small brine shrimp every eight hours for two weeks before they are ready for dry feed.

From here, the fish are contained in large basins until the age of two when male and female fish are separated. At this stage, male fish are humanely slaughtered, filleted, marinated, seasoned or smoked and sent to market.

“Female fish then continue to be pampered until they’re four years old,” says Awad.

“They receive regular ultrasound screening and, when eggs are detected, they are segregated and biopsies are taken to determine the quality of the eggs.” Female sturgeon lay eggs once or twice a year and each batch equates to around 10 percent of that fish’s body weight.

“The eggs start small and white, then turn grey, then get bigger and go black. This is the optimum time to collect them because, after that, they become over-ripe,” Awad explains.

Once collected, the caviar is handled manually the old-fashioned way, involving a process of quality checks, sieving to remove connecting tissue and then salting and canning.

“By the second half of 2014, we will be producing fresh vintage caviar every single day,” says Awad.

C H O L E S T E R O LB U S T I N G C AV I A R

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Caviar might be a pricey gourmet treat, but the fish product has exceptional nutritional properties. Its ability to combat cholesterol is most significant given that 62 percent of caviar is lecithin, which is highly effective in breaking down this arteryclogging fat-like substance.

The delicacy also possesses a multitude of vitamins including: A, which slows the ageing process of cells; B2, which produces healthy blood cells; B6, which promotes the optimum function of our neurones; B12, deemed essential for healthy blood cells; and C which is an excellent antioxidant that strengthens the body’s immune system.

5 A small pot of Yasa Caviar 6 Weighing the eggs 7 Fish tanks at the farm

Global reach Yasa Caviar and all Emirates AquaTech products are being marketed exclusively by Garamond International, which has offices in Abu Dhabi and Barcelona and is managed by a team of caviar experts. General manager Sara Morales says she has high hopes for Abu Dhabi’s new home-grown product given the strong world demand for “premium, responsibly and sustainably produced Siberian caviar”.

“Yasa Caviar meets all these requirements and has a light salty flavour with a creamy sensation that leaves a long-lasting taste of hazelnut.

I believe it will be enjoyed by many discerning consumers around the world,” she says.

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T A ST E/ CA VIA R

With this in mind, Emirates AquaTech is in the process of receiving appropriate certification to be able to sell its products globally. Currently, the biggest outdoor producer is Italy with 25 to 30 tonnes annually, but if Emirates AquaTech works to full capacity, its 35 tonnes will exceed this figure.

Morales concedes it is “not easy” to market caviar from Abu Dhabi given the lack of knowledge about sustainable caviar farming. “The reality is that most caviar produced is farmed these days, particularly now sturgeon is an endangered species,” she says. “Our challenge

is to educate the market about caviar both on how it is produced and its health properties.”

Morales is also encouraging Emirates AquaTech to expand its offering beyond sturgeon meat and caviar to farm other types of fish. For now though, Yasa Caviar is already proving a hit among several high-end hotels in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Two of the product’s biggest local customers are Emirates Palace and the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat.

Emirates Palace executive chef Sandro Gamba says Yasa Caviar has now replaced caviar from Iran and Russia at its seafood

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8 Sara Morales 9 Chef Gavin Gleeson, Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat 10 Caviar starter, Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat 11 Sayad, Emirates Palace

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“From a chef’s perspective, it is always ideal to use local products because we know how it is being produced and we’re sure of the quality first hand” UAE-BRED SALMON ON THE S H E LV E S S O O N

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Emirates AquaTech is not the only UAE company to bring fish farming to untested desert territory for the first time. Last year, Abu Dhabi-based Asmak announced plans to introduce landbased salmon farming in the emirate’s Western Region.

The 500,000-squaremetre facility is due for completion in the summer and is designed to produce 4,000 tonnes of fish per year, drastically reducing the country’s reliance on traditional salmon markets in Europe and slashing the price of the fish by between 30 and 50 percent. A cluster of small fish farms producing barramundi, sea bream and endangered species will be attached to the salmon farm.

restaurant Sayad and at Le Café. “With the embargo on wild caviar in place, it no longer makes sense to seek international sources when you can find a great product locally,” he says. “From a chef’s perspective, it is always ideal to use local products because we know how it is being produced and we’re sure of the quality first hand. Plus, it gives our guests a chance to try home-grown ingredients.”

“Also, with the relationship we are able to develop with the local farmers, we can ask them to produce caviar especially for Emirates Palace. For example, we can request that the caviar be more or less salty or acidic. It is caviar sur mesûre (made for you).”

Similarly, the exclusive Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat, is collaborating with AquaTech to develop a degustation menu based on Yasa Caviar, which will soon be served at its Le Deck restaurant. “As part of our environmental programme, we are focussing on locally produced goods to support these businesses and reduce our carbon footprint,” explains the club’s Chef Gavin Gleeson. “We were impressed by the farm set up and by AquaTech’s unique concept of ageing the caviar to produce different types with the same eggs.

“In my opinion as a chef, this product is very high quality, even though production has just started. Over the next couple of years, it will keep improving and I think Yasa Caviar has a promising future, which Monte-Carlo Beach Club, Saadiyat, is proud to be part of.”

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Tennis Open 2014 10 - 26 April

Beach Rotana will host its annual Tennis Open for the 9th time this year.

Being Abu Dhabi’s largest public tennis event, the tournament just gets bigger and better with age.

The tournament will start on 10th April and run throughout the months with the finals on the 26th April 2014.

KUDOS luxury outdoor lifestyle

If you’re a tennis pro or looking to test your skills on the court, this is one tournament you should not miss. Grab an application form today at the Beach Club. With cash prizes on offer, it’s the ultimate reason to put pen to paper.

For more information, please contact us on +971 (0)2 697 9302 or via email at bodylines.beach@rotana.com Al Zahiyah Area, P. O. Box: 45200, Abu Dhabi, UAE T: +971 (0)2 697 9000, F: +971 (0)2 644 2111, beach.hotel@rotana.com

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Tipping the scale The best of the day’s catch is reserved for the city’s top seafood restaurants, where fresh fish from the Gulf is transformed into gourmet dishes alongside maritime delicacies imported from around the world

As a coastal city, Abu Dhabi is well-served by a constant supply of fresh fish. For as long as people have been settled in these parts, fish has been a vital foodstuff, providing Bedouin tribes with much-needed sustenance when scanty farming supplies ran dry. Today, local stocks are supplemented by foreign imports to feed the ever-growing demand for seafood as the capital continues to expand. King Atlantic crab, Scottish salmon and Canadian lobster are among the many maritime delicacies that appear on Abu Dhabi menus, alongside local favourites such as hammour and red snapper. With demand for seafood higher here than any other country in the region, it’s no surprise that the UAE is brimming with excellent fish restaurants, many of which are to be found in Abu Dhabi. Concierge explores some of the best seafood venues in the capital where diners can be sure to find a culinary experience that does credit to the long history of fish consumption in these parts.

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FISH MARKET, INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI

S E A FOOD D I N I N G/ T A S T E

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La Mer Views of the sea are always a bonus at seafood restaurants and the sweeping panoramas of the Arabian Gulf at this five-star eaterie certainly play a part in setting the scene for a gourmet fish feast. Prepared in classic French style, the dishes reflect the best of maritime cooking with combinations such as seabass papilot accompanied by heirloom vegetables, lemongrass and spiced ponzu or the wonderful croustillant de peau de saumon bio – a delectable dish of crisped

salmon served with truffle mashed potato, baby spinach and beurre blanc. The extensive menu is complemented by a seafood bar where those that opt to dine fish market-style can select their fillet, caviar or lobster to be cooked according to preference with a choice of sauces and sides.

Where: Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche / When: Open midday to 3.30pm for lunch and 7pm to midnight for dinner / Contact: 02 8137777 or visit: sofitel.com

Diners are given the opportunity to indulge in Loch Fyne smoked Scottish salmon, salt-baked Sultan Ibrahim and curry-roasted cod in the Mayfair restaurant’s only sister establishment Scott’s Now a stylish contemporary eatery, Scott’s began life as a simple oyster warehouse back in 1851. Over 150 years later there is little evidence of these humble beginnings, except perhaps in the taste for seafood culinary classics exhibited by the menu. Here, diners are given the opportunity to indulge in Loch Fyne smoked Scottish salmon, salt-baked Sultan Ibrahim and curry-roasted cod in the Mayfair restaurant’s only sister establishment. The dessert menu calls on the brand’s English heritage with combinations such as bakewell pudding, Bramley apple and blackberry pie and Black Forest chocolate bomb. Located in a glasspanel structure overlooking the water, Scott’s is ideal for those looking to enjoy time-tested seafood recipes with a creative spin served to five-star standards in a dramatic setting.

Where: Jumeirah at Etihad Towers / When: Open midday to 3pm and 7 to 11pm / Contact: 02 8115666

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S E A FOOD D I N I N G/ T A S T E

Fish Market There’s no menu here – not in the conventional sense at least. Instead, diners at this perennially popular restaurant are invited to choose their fish from the wide selection of fresh seafood then hand it over to the chef who will transform it into a delectable dish. The emphasis here is on tailoring the meal to suit each palette.

Diners are invited to build their meal

from scratch and identify their favourite herbs, spices and sauces so the chef can create the perfect seafood feast for each individual. Enjoy your bespoke lunch or dinner on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace which overlooks a yacht-filled harbour.

Where: InterContinental Abu Dhabi / When: Open 12.30 to 4pm and 7 to 11pm / Contact: 02 6666888

Finz It’s worth going to Finz just to experience the mouthwatering lobster thermidor – a sensation of creamy crustacean in a rich sauce perfectly enhanced by spices and cheese. If that’s too heavy, then there are plenty of other mouthwatering options to tempt the appetite at this award-winning seafood restaurant. Take a seat on the terrace overlooking the water and browse the expansive menu, which features a wide selection of interesting options, such as a delectable pomfret fillet served with eggplant caviar mousseline and passion fruit salsa. Non-fish eaters are well catered for with a page of the menu dedicated to meat and vegetarian dishes while those with a sweet tooth have plenty to look forward to from the dessert selection at the end of the meal.

Where: Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi / When: Open 12.30 to 3.30pm and 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 02 6979000 or visit: rotana.com

BY THE SEA Seafood nibbles complement the cocktail menus at these waterfront hangouts Turquoiz – Watch the sun skim the horizon while sipping beautifully blended cocktails and indulging in a selection of seafood snacks at this five-star beach bar located in The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.

Sea Lounge – Ortiz anchovies served on toasted focaccia topped with sweet paprika, make a perfect starter followed by smoked eel croquettes and liquid foie gras nuggets at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club’s, Saadiyat’s stylish seaside restaurant.

Pearls & Caviar – Part restaurant, part lounge, this trendy venue at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri combines five-star dining with drinks on the rooftop.

Sayad Dinner at Sayad is a must for any seafood connoisseur visiting Abu Dhabi. Located in the luxurious Emirates Palace hotel, this fivestar eaterie sets the tone with elegant décor, live jazz music and a menu of perfectly executed, ocean-sourced dishes. Everything served here is of the highest standard, from fish-restaurant classics such as the seafood platter – Sayad’s version is a three- to four-tiered mountain of shellfish on ice, spilling over with premium lobster, crab, prawns and more – to the more novel creations dreamed up by Emirates Palace executive chef Sandro Gamba. These include a delectable tandoori- roasted pomfret served with onion and tomato lachaa and mint chutney and a delicious slow-cooked salmon consommé accompanied by spinach and rice noodles.

Where: Emirates Palace / When: Open 6.30 to 11.30pm / Contact: 02 6907999 or visit: kempinski.com

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The guide DISCOVER / EXPERIENCE / SHOP / TASTE

ART GALLERIES / MUSEUMS AND CULTUR AL SITES TOURS / FAMILY ACTIVITIES / ADVENTURE GOLF / SPORTS / MALLS / SOUKS HOTEL OUTLETS AND PROMOTIONS

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Discover

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Proud of its culture and history, Abu Dhabi has focused efforts on preserving its identity through galleries and museums

ART GALLERIES

MANARAT AL SAADIYAT

02 4061400, saadiyat.ae

The interactive exhibition offers an insight into future developments on Saadiyat Island, including the culture hub taking shape here.

Timings: Daily 10am to 8pm N2N GALLERY

02 6908929, n2n-gallery.com

Abu Dhabi ETIHAD GALLERY

02 6444366

On one side of this converted villa is an antiques emporium, crammed with historic treasures and on the other is a sleek modern art gallery featuring works by regional and international artists.

Timings: Sat to Thu

10am to 1.30pm and 5pm to 10.30pm FOLKLORE GALLERY

02 6660361

Browse and buy paintings, sculptures and prints from established artists at this small gallery where there is a particular emphasis on the European school with works displaying influences that range from impressionism and classical realism to modern contemporary styles.

Al Ain AL QATTARA ARTS CENTER

03 7618080

Housed in a historic fort in Al Ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Al Qattara Oasis, this centre specialises in local and Arab art as well as UAE heritage and culture.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 8pm

MUSEUMS AND CULTURAL SITES

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Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 2pm and 5 to 9pm, Sat 11am to 2pm and 5 to 9pm SALWA ZEIDAN GALLERY

02 6669656, salwazeidangallery. com/connect Aims to be the main address for international and Middle Eastern contemporary and emerging artists.

Abu Dhabi EMIRATES NATIONAL AUTO MUSEUM

02 6676999, 050 8293952, enam.ae

Offers art, craft and gift items from the Arab world along with prints and paintings inspired by the UAE landscape.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. To set up a private viewing contact: 02 6669656

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 10pm

A community venue where emerging and established artists can stay, work, interact and exhibit in a purposely designed space.

Timings: Daily 9am to 6pm (closed for lunch) Guide price: AED50

Timings: Sat to Wed

This tourist site on the Breakwater near Marina Mall is a recreation of Bedouin life with a museum of original artefacts and photographs and a small souk for souvenirs.

GHAF ART GALLERY

02 6655332

Ghaf is the oldest art gallery in the capital and features work by artists in Abu Dhabi and around the world.

ABU DHABI ART HUB

02 5515005, adah.ae

9am to 8p, Thu 9am to 2pm

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm

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A diverse collection of more than 200 classic vehicles owned

by Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan.

HERITAGE VILLAGE

02 6814455

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm, Fri 3.30 to 9pm Guide price: Free

1. Arabian Nights Village 2. Sir Bani Yas Stables 3. Qasr al Hosn 4. Etihad Gallery 5. Sowwah Square 6. Al Qattara Arts Center

MANARAT AL SAADIYAT

02 6575800, saadiyat.ae

This visitor centre on Saadiyat Island houses international exhibitions with four galleries, a theatre, events' space and Fanr restaurant.

Timings: Daily 10am to 8pm ZAYED CENTRE

02 665 9555

For a fascinating sneak peek into the life of the late Sheikh Zayed visit the Zayed Centre in Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen district.

This museum, housed in an Emirati heritage village is an incredible homage to the man who shaped the nation.

HISTORIC HUNTERS Falcons played a vital role in the lives of the region's early Bedouin tribes when the birds of prey caught and supplied the settlers with meat. To this day, they are still celebrated as the national bird of the UAE. While hunting falcons has been banned, the birds can still be viewed taking part in sports and displays or visited at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.

Timings: Open Sun to Thu. Bookings must be made a week in advance.

Al Ain AL JAHILI FORT

03 7843996

One of the largest forts in the UAE, Al Jahili Fort was built by Sheikh Zayed the First between 1891 and 1898 and used as a royal summer residence.

Timings: Daily 9am to 5pm, Fri 3 to 5pm. Closed Mondays Guide price: Free

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T HE GUI D E / DIS COVE R

AL AIN NATIONAL MUSEUM

03 7641595

This museum illustrates the UAE's distant past as well as recent history through archaeological and ethnographical sections.

HERITAGE SITES

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 7.30pm, Fri 3 to 7.30pm. Closed Mondays Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children under 10 years

ARABIAN NIGHTS

02 6779988

The corporate travel company organises excursions around the capital.

Visitors can also book an overnight stay at the Arabian Nights Village, a luxurious Bedouin camp in the desert.

Guide price: Accommodation at the village ranges from AED1,250 for a bayt al bahr heritage room to AED3,750 for a luxurious wind tower suite.

SHEIKH ZAYED PALACE MUSEUM

03 7517755

Originally a palace for the Al Nahyan family, it is now a museum that chronicles the lifestyle of the ruling family.

BIG BUS COMPANY

800 244287

See Abu Dhabi's major attractions on an open-top double-decker bus at your own pace, hopping on and off where you like.

Commentary is available in eight languages.

Timings: Sat to Thu

8.30am to 7.30pm, Fri 3 to 7pm. Closed Mondays Guide price: Free

Al Gharbia

Timings: 9am to 5pm.

Ticket valid 24 hours Guide price: Adults AED200, children AED100, family (two adults, two children) AED500

CHRISTIAN MONASTERY

02 8015400

Explore the remains of a Christian monastery which is believed to have been founded in the late 6th century CE on Sir Bani Yas Island.

The guided tour takes one hour.

EMIRATES ADVENTURES

02 6445117

Experience Abu Dhabi's unique culture by visiting Heritage Village, the dates market, Gold Centre and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on the half-day city tour.

Timings: Daily at 7, 9

and 11am, 2 and 4pm Guide price: AED250

TOURS

4

Air FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4440007

For a completely different view of Abu Dhabi, board a helicopter and see the city's major landmarks from above.

Guide price: AED1,250 per

person for a 30-minute city tour

Land AL MASAOOD TRAVEL

02 6211797

Explore Abu Dhabi’s rich Arabic culture and modern architecture on this five-hour city tour that takes in all the major sites.

Guide price: From AED150 for adults and AED100 for children ARABIAN ADVENTURES

02 6911711

Take in the Grand Mosque, Cultural Foundation, souks, Corniche and Heritage Village before driving past the presidential palace area and Emirates Palace.

Timings: Monday and Wednesday mornings Guide price: Adults AED160, children AED80

Timings: Daily 9am to 1pm Guide price: AED180,

Heritage Village A must-see destination for traditional Emirati handicrafts, the Heritage Village features reconstructions of Bedouin tents, old fishing villages and traditional markets.

Al Ain National Museum The oldest museum in the UAE, Al Ain National Museum has displays dating from the Stone Age to the country’s preoil era with photography exhibits as well as jewellery, tools, pottery and other artefacts.

children AED120 NET TOURS

02 6794656

Haggle over carpets, admire the Corniche, learn about local culture and visit the Grand Mosque.

Timings: Daily 9am to 1.30pm Guide price: Adults AED150, children AED100 SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE

800 555 or szgmc.ae

One of the largest mosques in the world, this place of worship runs tours that offer an insight into Islamic culture and religion.

A city in the making Abu Dhabi is undergoing a rapid transformation as brand new mega-developments emerge that take the city's credentials as a destination 'par excellence' to new heights. Regular visitors to the city cannot fail to notice the speed with which the capital is transforming. A host of upcoming projects under the govenment's Vision 2030 plan, such as Saadiyat Cultural District, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the sustainable Masdar City, are set to diversify the city even further.

CAPT. TONY'S

02 6507175

Abu Dhabi's first ecoconscious boat tour operators runs island-hopping excursions, coastal cruises, mangrove trips and more.

Guide price: Sunset cruise AED250 for adults and AED150 for children. Island Beach Tour, AED350 for adults and AED250 for children.

Private charter AED2,800 HILTONIA BEACH CLUB

02 6811900

Take a sightseeing cruise along the Corniche, around Abu Dhabi island or enjoy a dinner cruise.

Guide price: Sightseeing cruise along Corniche from AED250 for half an hour (five people or less). Cruise around Abu Dhabi AED750 for two hours(five people or less). Dinner cruise AED300 PEARL JOURNEY

02 6419914

(except Friday mornings). See boxout at right for free tour times Guide price: Free

Learn more about the pearl diving industry that once underpinned the local economy on this fascinting cruise, where guests have the chance to find their own pearl.

Cultural Foundation Located in the grounds of the Old Fort, the Cultural Foundation hosts year-round exhibitions of painting, sculpture, photography, pottery and Arabic calligraphy.

SUNSHINE TOURS

Guide price: AED500 for adults,

Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum Built in 1937, the palace of the late Sheikh Zayed was converted to a museum and opened in 2001. Visitors won’t find a large collection of photographs or exhibits because Sheikh Zayed wanted the royal palace and residence to be a true reflection of his country’s culture prior to the discovery of oil.

Water

Timings: Open 9am to 10pm

02 4449914

Tours are available in different destinations around the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Liwa and Al Ain.

Guide price: Abu Dhabi city tour AED190. Dubai or Al Ain city tours cost AED390 and include lunch.

AL DHAFRA

02 6732266

Al Dhafra’s dhows can take up to 60 people. Sail to nearby islands or simply cruise along the Corniche.

Timings: Boarding 8.30pm, cruise from 9 to 11pm Guide price: AED180 per hour for large dhows, AED150 per hour for small dhow, private hire starting at AED600 per hour

children (under 12) AED400.

SEA CRUISER

050 8009495 or seacruiser.ae

Cruise along the Abu Dhabi Corniche before stopping for diving, snorkelling, fishing and other water activities.

Guide price: Adults AED120, children AED75 YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

Skim through the waves in these bright yellow boats on a high-speed tour of Abu Dhabi.

Guide price: Adults AED200, children AED150 SHERATON ABU DHABI

02 6773333

See the city from the water along the Corniche on a private boat for up to six people.

Timings: On demand Guide price: Corniche cruise

AED 200 for 30 minutes.

Sunset cruise AED200

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Al Ain AL MASAOOD TRAVEL

02 6911711

Visit Al Ain’s attractions, including oases, souks, the Al Ain Museum, camel market, palaces and archaeological sites.

Guide price: From AED250 for adults and AED180 for children EMIRATES ADVENTURES

02 6445117

Discover the heritage heart of the emirate with a full-day tour of Al Ain. Learn the history of the region at the city's museums, see how Al Ain earned its reputation as the 'garden city' and go shopping for camels at the Camel Market.

Timings: Saturday to Thursday (except Monday) 8.30am to 6pm Guide price: AED380 including lunch. Minimum of four people

Al Gharbia ARABIAN ADVENTURES

02 6911711

Visit the edge of the Rub Al Khali (also known as the Empty Quarter), stopping in Liwa to see Bedouin camps and enjoy lunch. Then take in an old fort before the journey back.

Timings: On request Guide price: On request EMIRATES ADVENTURES

02 6445117

Join a safari into Al Gharbia and the Rub Al Khali, see the Liwa Oasis and enjoy lunch at a local guest house.

Timings: Daily 8.30am to 6pm Guide price: AED550 including lunch. Minimum of four people NET TOURS

02 6794656 or info@netgroupauh.com

Enjoy a thrilling 4x4 bash over the sand dunes and visit the Rub Al Khali, the world’s largest sand desert, before lunch at a local hotel.

Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price: Adults AED290 children AED235

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Experience With a vast desert, spectacular coastline and world-class sporting facilities, Abu Dhabi is made for action and adventure

ABU DHABI

MURJAN SPLASH PARK

050 8781009

This mini water park at Khalifa Park is ideal for youngsters with seven water-based activities.

Chill out on the 257-metre lazy river or battle it out in a water balloon fight.

Amusements

Timings: Sat to Sun 2 to 6pm and 7 to 11pm. Ladies' day on Tuesdays is from 10am to 7pm.

Guide price: AED40 for guests above 75cm tall and free for guests under 75cm

CHILDREN’S VILLAGE

SPARKY’S

This village at the Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel has a Jungle Garden play area for the under-eights, electronic games and a bowling centre.

Branches at Khalidiya Mall, Al Raha Mall, Mazyad Mall and Mushrif Mall with a modest ice rink, bowling alley and soft play area.

02 4415900

02 6354316

Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 9am to 10pm Guide price: Varies.

Bowling AED15 per game

Timings: Sat to Sun 9am to midnight, Fri 1pm to midnight.

Guide price: AED36 for ice rink, AED15 for bowling

FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

WANASA LAND

02 4968001 or ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Ride roller coasters at top speed, race in an F1 simulator around a virtual Yas Marina Circuit and be propelled 62 metres into the air. Then feast on fine Italian cuisine before stopping in the world's largest Ferrari store.

Timings: Open daily, 11am to 8pm Guide price: AED235 for visitors over 1.3m tall, AED195 for visitors below 1.3m.

Premium tickets available FUN CITY

02 6815527

Hi-tech amusement centre in Marina Mall with an impressive line-up of rides, including a roller coaster, bumper cars and an area for under fives.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight.

Guide price: Varies by ride.

Rollercoaster AED10 per ride.

FUN WORLD

02 6322255

Fun World at Al Muhairy Centre caters to youngsters up to eight years old with soft play areas, bumper cars and a bouncy castle.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 1.30pm, 4 to 10pm; Fri 3.30 to 11pm; Sat 10am to 10pm Guide price: From AED3.50 for arcade games, AED10 for bouncy castle and AED15 for soft play area KIDOOS

02 6459070

Kidoos at Abu Dhabi Mall offers arcade games, a climbing wall and a play area for younger children.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm Guide price: AED17 for climbing wall, AED35 weekdays, AED 45 weekends for play area

02 4437654

Wanasa Land at Al Wahda Mall boasts Strike Zone, a six-lane bowling alley and soft play area.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to midnight, Fri to Sat 10am to 1am.

Guide price: AED40 for Strike Zone, AED35 for play area, AED15 for bowling YAS WATERWORLD

02 4142000, yaswaterworld.com Choose between 40 rides, slides and attractions at this new water park which is the latest addition to the Yas Island entertainment hub.

Guide price:Standard

admission AED225 for adults, AED185 for children.

Birdwatching ABU DHABI FALCON HOSPITAL

02 5755155 or 050 6660739

Get up close to the national bird of the UAE and see it in full flight. Educational and informative tours are available in a number of languages.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am

and 2pm. All tours must be booked in advance.

Guide price: AED220 for adults and AED80 for children with a meal, or AED170 for adults and AED60 for children without a meal NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

050 7218928 or noukhada.ae

Take the two-and-a-half-hour Twitcher's Tour, paddling past the mangroves and see a variety of birds, including herons.

Timings: Check website for details Guide price: AED200

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Bowling ARMED FORCES OFFICERS’ CLUB

02 4415900

This huge sports complex is an active family's paradise.

Test your aim at the bowling centre which has four alleys.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: Members

and guests AED10 per game including shoe hire.

Non-members AED15 per game KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL BOWLING CENTRE

02 4034200

A state-of-the-art centre at Zayed Sports City with 40 international-standard lanes.

Timings: Daily 9am to 1am Guide price: AED12 per game

Camel racing

1.

2.

3.

4.

Desert safari Talise Spa, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Sailing, Noukhada Adventure Scuba diving in the UAE

AL WATHBA

02 5839200 or 50 6147007 Call the UAE Camel Race Association for directions to the camel race track.

Timings: Fri and Sat 7 to 9am and 2.30 to 4pm Guide price: Free

Cruising & sailing AL BANDAR SAILING SCHOOL

050 6606428

Brush up on your sailing skills with professional lessons then charter a boat and take to the seas in one of Al Bandar's dinghys, keelboats or powerboats.

Timings:Daily, 9am to 5pm

2

3

ABU DHABI CHARTERS

02 6424222

Take a three-hour cruise and experience sunset over the Arabian Gulf.

Guide price: From AED750 per person ARABIAN DIVERS & SPORTFISHING CHARTERS

050 6146931

Charter a boat for cruises along the Corniche, around Abu Dhabi island or to visit the outlying desert islands.

Guide price: Call for details ART MARINE

04 3388955 or yas.charter@artmarine.net Take a cruise along Abu Dhabi's coastline and explore the islands, or charter a yacht for a fishing adventure.

Guide price: From AED750 per hour

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T HE GUI D E / E XPE R IE NCE

CAPT. TONY'S

ARABIAN ADVENTURES

Fishing

THE VILLAGE CLUB

The Yas Island-based boat tour company offers a range of cruises around the Abu Dhabi waters which can be tailored to suit guest preferences. Other aquatic activites include a stand-up paddle boarding island-hopping tour.

Take a four-wheel drive journey over the rolling dunes of the desert, visit camel camps, watch the stunning Arabian sunset and enjoy a traditional barbecue feast.

Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request

Enjoy fishing off the coast of Abu Dhabi or venture out to the deep sea to try your luck.

Timings: Daily Guide price: Adults AED315, children AED290

050 6146931

02 6507175

Guide price: Call for details HILTONIA BEACH CLUB

02 6811900

Charter the 31-foot, twin-engine Barracuda and enjoy sightseeing along the Corniche, island trips and snorkelling.

Timings: 8am to 8pm.Guide price:Weekdays AED150, weekends AED185.

NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

02 6911711

Diving

Guide price: Call for details

FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

Part of the British Club, offers BSAC-certified courses.

Hotel boat available for charter for fishing trips or sea cruises. Equipment, bait and beverages are included in the price.

Charter a helicopter for business or pleasure and see the capital from a whole new perspective in air-conditioned comfort.

02 6731111 or 050 5409041

Guide price: Call for details

Guide price: Three-hour

Offers a full range of PADI courses as well as diving trips and watersports.

SHERATON ABU DHABI

02 6773333

Enjoy a sunset cruise along the Corniche to Emirates Palace, watching dolphins at play.

Guide price: AED50 per person for one hour

Guide price: Call for details ARABIAN DIVERS & SPORTFISHING CHARTERS

050 6146931

PADI dive resort with equipment sales/services, private instruction and daily dive charters.

Guide price: Call for details OCEAN DIVE CENTRE

Take a relaxing one-hour cruise along the Corniche or a four-hour cruise to nearby Bahraini Island.

Full range of courses available. Located at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.

Guide price: Coastline cruise AED180, island cruise AED300

Slip into the pilot's seat of a life-size Boeing 747-400 simulator and take flight.

02 6441696

Guide price: Call for details

02 6811900

Charter a 31-foot, twinengine boat for a fishing trip for up to six people.

Guide price: AED750 including equipment, soft drinks and water NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

02 6503600 or noukhada.ae

Paddle out into the Arabian Sea and enjoy four hours of fishing.

Guide price: AED400, including fishing equipment. AED50 for each additional hour

THE YELLOW BOATS

800 4044 or theyellowboats.com

Get the adrenaline pumping on an ultimate thrill ride, or take a more relaxed cruise and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.

Guide price: Accommodation

at The Village ranges from AED1,250 for a heritage room to AED3,750 for a wind tower suite AL MASAOOD TRAVEL

02 6212100

Go deep into the Arabian Desert, driving over the towering dunes, before heading to a camp for camel riding, belly dancing, shisha and a barbecue.

Timings: Daily 4 to 9.30pm Guide price: Adults

AED300, children AED240

Set in the middle of a racecourse with the city skyline in the background this course was the first nine-hole facility to open in Abu Dhabi. The 27-year old club has a golf academy and a floodlit driving range in addition to a new pavilion with views of the greens where players can relax with a drink after their game.

Home to the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship this challenging course offers tough, but fair, play with a nine-hole putting green, floodlit driving range and golf institute. Also offers night golf on the floodlit course.

02 6779988

The corporate travel company organises excursions around the capital.

Visitors can also book an overnight stay at the Arabian Nights Village, a luxurious Bedouin camp in the desert.

02 4459600 (Nine holes, 6,350 yards, par 70)

02 5588990 National Course (27 holes, 7,334 yards, par 72)

ARABIAN NIGHTS

Green fees: National Course,

GOING GREEN Abu Dhabi’s growing appeal as an international golfing destination is easily explained by the wealth and range of excellent facilities available here. Three championship-standard golf courses within a 20-minute drive from the city centre offer golfers an opportunity to put their swings to the test on some of the region’s most challenging holes. Follow in the footsteps of the sport’s superstars at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, home to the HSBC Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, enjoy stunning scenery during a round at the protected Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and experience the Middle East’s first true Links course on Yas Island.

AED550, twilight rate (after 3pm) AED450. Fri and Sat AED850, twilight rate AED650

Horse racing Racing season is November to March.

For more information visit adec-web.com ABU DHABI EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Golf

ABU DHABI GOLF CLUB

Desert safari

Green fees: Sun to Thu

to 2pm and 3 to 7pm, Fri 2 to 7pm. Closed Tue Guide price: From AED350 for one hour

Sun to Thu AED145, Fri and Sat AED195. Rates for 18 holes on request. Includes golf cart, water and towel

adults, AED100 for children or AED450 for a family of four

The region's first links-style golf course with views of the coast from every hole.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

Green fees: Nine holes

Guide price: From AED150 for

YAS LINKS

02 5568555

ABU DHABI CITY GOLF CLUB

18 holes Sun to Thu AED525, Fri and Sat AED675. AED275.

Night golf AED275. Includes golf cart and unlimited use of practice facilities AL GHAZAL GOLF CLUB

02 5758040 (18 holes, 6,450 yards, par 71)

Sand course near Abu Dhabi International Airport that provides free transit visas and complimentary transport for those passing through.

Brown fees: 18 holes Sun

to Thu AED140, Fri and Sat AED190. AED60 for club hire and AED50 for buggy hire

Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, this beachfront course offers spectacular views of the Gulf waters and golfers may even spot dolphins.

02 8107777 (18 holes, 7,450 yards, par 72)

person for 30-minute city tour

HILTONIA BEACH CLUB

02 5578000 or sbgolfclub.ae (18 holes, 7,784 yards, par 72)

AED525, twilight rate (after 2pm) AED275. Thu to Sat AED675, twilight rate AED350.

Includes use of golf cart, water and practice facilities

Guide price: AED1,250 per

MUTAHIDA FLIGHT SIMULATOR

SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

Green fees: Sun to Wed

02 4448866

Guide price: AED750

for three hours, AED1,300 for six hours

02 6437377 or divemahara.com

THE VILLAGE CLUB

02 4952000

02 6443000

ISLAND LIFE

Flying

BEACH ROTANA ABU DHABI

AL MAHARA DIVING CENTRE

island tour AED250 for adults and AED200 for children.

Big game sport-fishing adventures. Twin diesel sports-fishing boats, tournament tackle and IGFA-certified captains.

Guide price: Four-hour angler cruise costs AED400, six-hour deep-sea fishing cruise costs AED650

ABU DHABI SUB AQUA CLUB

02 6503600 or noukhada.ae

Learn to sail or just enjoy the sailing experience on Hobie 18 and Hobie 16 catamarans.

ARABIAN DIVERS & SPORTFISHING CHARTERS

02 4952000

02 4455500

Whether by land, air or sea, these unique Abu Dhabi islands are well worth exploring...

Sir Bani Yas Island Home to the Arabian Wildlife Reserve, visitors to this island will spot herds of African gazelle, striped hyena, giraffes, Barbary sheep and many more specias existing side by side.

Yas Island An entertainment hub that houses the famous Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Yas Links golf course and a number of hotels.

Saadiyat Island Beautiful beaches, lush mangroves, fertile wetlands and luxury hotels make up this Abu Dhabi island.

Al Maryah Island When completed, this will become the centre of business in Abu Dhabi and house a number of office towers, hotels and the new stock exchange.

Dalma Island A simple rural island away from the glamour of the capital that gives a fresh glimpse of Abu Dhabi history.

The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club offers a riding club and show jumping arena with a stable of 100 horses. There are also horse races held on Sunday evenings during the racing season.

Timings: Private lessons 6 to 10am, group lessons 4.30 to 8pm Guide price: Group lessons AED300, 20-minute pony riding AED50

Hot air ballooning BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

04 2854949

Marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise from above the dunes with a peaceful hot air balloon ride.

Guide price: AED995 for adults, AED850 for 5- to 12-year-olds

Ice skating ABU DHABI ICE RINK

02 4034200

Located at Zayed Sports City, the rink can accommodate up to 400 skaters. Ice skating and hockey lessons are available.

Timings: 9am to 10pm daily. Thu ladies only Guide price: AED25 per hour.

MARINA MALL ICE RINK

02 681 5806

This ice-skating rink at the heart of the mall is ideal for ice skaters of all skill levels.

Lessons are available.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 11am to 11pm Guide price: AED40 for one hour. Includes skate hire, socks and protective pads

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ARMED FORCES OFFICERS’ CLUB & HOTEL

02 4415900

Test your commando skills, take aim and let off a bit of steam.

Timings: 1 to 10pm Guide price: AED 150 per

person per game including gear and 100 balls

Parks & gardens WATER WONDERLAND Abu Dhabi made global yachting history when it became the first Middle Eastern port ever to host the gruelling Volvo Ocean Race last year. Now, the city is preparing to host a second stop-over in at the end of 2014 and will once again field its own team, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing.

The UAE capital is not new to water-based racing. The country has become a major force in powerboat racing and regularly unveils a top-class team to compete in the UIM Formula 1 World Championship which climaxes in front of thousands of spectators at the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club by the Breakwater.

Island trips AL FUTAISI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

02 6666601

Futaisi island has 40 chalets and two villas, as well as other facilities such as a swimming pool, cycling, nature walks and horse riding.

YAS MARINA CIRCUIT

OFF-ROAD BUGGIES

This new go-karting centre has 40 karts for both adults and children.

Race buggies around the circuit with machines for all levels of experience.

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Timings: Tue to Sun 3 to 11pm Guide price: Adults

AED120, children under 13 AED100 for 10 minutes

Guide price: Day trips

Kayaking

HILTONIA BEACH CLUB

NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

from 9.30am to 6pm cost AED250 per person

02 6811900

Up to six people can spend the day relaxing at Bahraini and Futaisi islands with pick-ups, drop-offs, drinks and umbrellas included.

Guide price: AED830

per person

NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

050 7218928 or noukhada.ae

Paddle to nearby islands on this three-hour trip, stopping off to enjoy the quiet life and take photos at areas only accessible by boat.

Guide price: Two-hour

eco tour AED220, 1.5-hour mangrove tour AED150, threehour island tour AED250

Karting

050 7218928 or noukhada.ae

Venture into the mangroves on this one-and-a-half-hour kayak tour that is suitable for all levels.

Guide price: AED450 per person

Motor sports DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by a world champion at the Yas Drag Racing Centre, or race your friends in the Chevrolet Camaro SS

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Three-seat dragster passenger experience from AED500. Formula Yas 3000 experience AED1,200.

Off-road buggies AED200 adults and AED150 children.

AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

FORMULA ONE

Experience motorsport on a smaller scale racing around a circuit in karts for cadets, senior racers and advanced racers. Arrive and drive sessions are available.

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

Alternatively, get behind the wheel of the Formula Yas 3000.

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Timings: Daily 3 to 11pm Guide price: From

AED120 for 15 minutes

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED11,500.

Formula Yas 3000 experience AED1,200

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

SHEIKH KHALIFA PARK Situated in Al Matar near Al Bateen Airport, the park features gardens that reflect Arabic and Islamic architecture with lakes, fountains and canals.

Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED1 THE CORNICHE Hire a bicycle or buggy and pedal along the wide open paths. Visit the family beach and spend the day on a sunlounger, or enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the cafés and restaurants.

Timings: 7am to 10pm Guide price: Entry to family beach AED10, sunlounger AED25, buggy hire AED20 for 30 minutes, bicycle hire AED20 per hour

Timings: Daily 3 to 11pm Guide price: From AED200 for

Quad Biking

YAS RACING SCHOOL

TILAL LIWA

10km session

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Drive race cars and sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED950 to drive, AED350 for hot lap with a driver. Private tuition starts at AED1,500

Mountain biking NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

02 6503600 or noukhada.ae

Take an all-terrain bike ride into the desert. See camels feeding, people riding horses, an Arabian sunset and a star-filled sky.

Guide price: AED250 per person

Paintball AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Stage a shootout in the wild west or a Pacific warzone with special effects and air-conditioning.

Timings: Weekdays 3 to 10pm,

weekends 10.30am to 10pm Guide price: From AED120 for 200 balls

02 8946111

Race over the dunes on a quad bike for an exhilarating way to explore the UAE desert.

Guide price: AED200 for 60 minutes, AED100 for 30 minutes

Skydiving SPACE WALK INDOOR SKYDIVING

02 6577601

Experience the thrill of a free fall without the fear of jumping from a plane at this wind tunnel located at the Abu Dhabi Country Club.

Guide price: Introductory ticket AED180, family package AED720

Camel racing

Water sports

AL MAQAM CAMEL RACE TRACK

Hotels can organise watersports on request, while some have their own facilities.

Get up early in the winter months for a unique and authentic Emirati cultural experience.

Guide price:

Jetskiing AED180 for 30 minutes Wake boarding AED150 for 20 minutes Water skiing AED75 for 20 minutes Wind surfing from AED160 per hour AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Learn how to water ski, kneeboard and wake board, or perfect your technique on the obstacle course in a safe, confined environment.

Timings: Weekdays 3 to 10pm, weekends 10.30am to 10pm Guide price: AED125 for one hour or AED280 for a full day DANAT JEBEL DHANNA RESORT

02 8012222

A huge array of watersports and aquatic activities is available here, including banana boat and tube rides, windsurfing, waterskiing, knee boarding, kayaking, fishing trips, snorkelling and boat cruises

Guide price: Ask at reception

Shooting

for details

CARACAL SHOOTING CLUB

050 6144024 or wrsmuts@emirates.net.ae

02 4416404

Choose from a variety of pistols and rifles then take aim at the 25m target shooting range. Located at the Armed Forces Officers' Club & Hotel, there is also a 10m simulation shooting range, retail outlet and a coffee shop.

Timings: Sat to Thu noon to 10pm, Fri 2 to 10pm Guide price: 22lr AED180 and 9mm AED205.

AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Catering for all skill levels, this expansive sports resort offers Olympic disciplines and sporting clays along with handgun and rifle ranges.

Timings: Weekdays 3 to 10pm,

weekends 10.30am to 10pm Guide price: From AED150

AL AIN

ABU DHABI WILDLIFE CENTRE

See cheetahs, tigers, leopards and other endangered species at this rescue and rehabilitation centre on the outskirts of the city.

02 5839200

Timings: Fri to Sat 7 to 9am approximately Guide price: Free of charge

Family amusements BAWADI MALL ENTERTAINMENT

03 7840000

Spanning 10,000 square metres, this family entertainment centre includes a 12-lane bowling alley and Fun Ski Village.

Timings: SUN to Wed 10am to midnight, Thu and Fri 10am to 1am.

Guide price: Call for details HILI FUN CITY & ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

03 7845542

A family-friendly destination with landscaped gardens and a fun park, with nine new rides. There are cafés and restaurants as well.

The adjacent archaeological park dates to the third millennium BCE and makes an interesting day out.

Timings: Mon to Thu 4 to 10pm , Fri 10am to 10pm, Sat noon to midnight. Wed ladies only. Closed Sunday Guide price: Mon and Tue AED35, Wed to Sat AED40, including rides

Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to 5pm Guide price: One-hour guided tour AED45 for adults, AED35 for children under 12 years

Golf

EMIRATES PARK ZOO

03 7026400

02 5633100 or kidsparkuae.com

Meet, touch and help feed a variety of creatures including camels, emus, raccoons, boa constrictor and the park's newest attractions, five fur seals, which can be seen during daily shows.

Timings: Sun to Wed 9.30am to 8pm; Thu to Sat and public holidays 9.30am to 9pm Guide price: AED20 for adults, AED15 for children, AED60 family ticket (two adults and three children). Extra AED5 for the Ocean Park

AL AIN EQUESTRIAN, SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB (18 holes, 6,584 yards, par 71) Enjoy a round of golf and test out the newly opened back nine holes with lighting and 42-bay driving range, or get some tips from the professionals at the golf academy.

Green fees: Nine holes AED215 on weekdays, or AED245 on weekend; 18 holes AED300 on weekdays or AED390 on weekends. Includes use of driving range and golf cart. Ninehole academy course AED100 AL AIN GOLF CLUB

03 7686808

(Nine holes, Par 3) Sand course with a clubhouse and practice putting green. Clubs can be hired.

Green fees: Nine holes AED50

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T HE GUI D E / E XPE R IE NCE

HILTON AL AIN GOLF CLUB

03 7686666

(Nine holes, par 3) Golf resort with facilities including a health club, two swimming pools and four floodlit tennis courts.

Green fees: Nine holes AED23

Hot air ballooning

Parks & gardens

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

AL AIN EQUESTRIAN, SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB

Guide price: AED950 for adults, AED800 for 5- to 12-year-olds

Ice skating

Timings: Mon to Sat 2 to 10pm Guide price: From

AED90 for 50 rounds

AL AIN ICE RINK, HILI FUN CITY

AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

Enjoy an ice skating session with family and friends at this Olympic-size ice rink, which also offers ladiesand children-only days. It is located next door to Hili Fun City amusement park.

The Resort is the first in the Gulf to offer both Olympic disciplines and sporting clays combined with handgun and rifle ranges.

Timings: Mon to Thu 4 to 10pm, Fri 10am to 10pm, Sat noon to 10pm Guide price: Sun to Tue AED35, Wed to Sat AED35 AL AIN MALL ICE RINK

03 7660333

The ice rink hosts regular skating sessions, monthly family ice shows and hockey tournaments.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED25 for 1.5 hours BAWADI MALL SKATING RINK

03 7840000

This artificial skating rink is suitable for metal blade and roller shoes. There is also a 12-lane bowling alley nearby.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri noon to midnight Guide price: AED25 for two hours, includes skate hire

Karting AL AIN RACEWAY

03 7686662

Enjoy a two-hour horse ride along sandy beaches or take a lesson to improve your skills and confidence. Wildlife rides will be introduced soon.

Camel trekking TILAL LIWA HOTEL

02 8946111

Experience the beauty of the UAE in true Bedouin style – aboard a camel.

5

03 7026500

Try your hand at skeet and trap shooting as well as range shooting from 10 to 50 metres with rifles and pistols.

03 7845542

04 2854949

Guide price: Free

Shooting

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Horse riding SIR BANI YAS STABLES

GREEN MUBAZZARAH HOT SPRINGS At the foot of Jebel Hafeet, Green Mubazzarah is a park of rolling grassy hills with streams, hot springs and waterfalls. It is a popular location for weekend picnics.

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

04 2854949

AL GHARBIA

Guide price: AED30 for every 10 minutes of camel trekking QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT

02 8862088

Explore the Rub Al Khali, trekking through vast sand valleys.

5. Yas Waterworld 6. Couples’ spa treatment at Zen the spa, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi 7. Yas Links

Skiing BAWADI MALL SKI VILLAGE Polish your snow plough technique on the artificial ski slope or slide downhill on a big rubber ring.

Kayaking DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

02 8015400

Explore the quiet waters of Sir Bani Yas Island and discover rare birds, fish and wild gazelle.

Guide price: AED60

Timings: 6am and 8am (40 minutes), 4.45pm (25 minutes), 5.45pm (50 minutes) Guide price: AED135 for 40 minutes, AED60 for 25 minutes, AED195 for 50 minutes

Mountain biking

Cruising & sailing

02 8015400

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

03 7840000

Guide price: AED250 for two-hour Royal Bay Ride, lessons from AED200

02 8015400

Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise around Sir Bani Yas Island, spotting dolphins and dugongs.

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA Explore the rugged landscape of Sir Bani Yas Island with two trails suitable for all levels.

Guide price: AED60 QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT

02 8862088

Guide price: Sunset

cruise AED250

Start the day with an energising cycle across the desert while the sun rises from behind the dunes.

Snorkelling

Timings: 6am Guide price: AED60

Water park

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

Wildlife park

WADI ADVENTURE

Explore the rich underwater world near Sir Bani Yas Island on a snorkelling tour.

ARABIAN WILDLIFE PARK

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am

to 10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 2pm to midnight, Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Skiing AED60 for two hours, includes equipment

02 8015400

03 7818422

Go kayaking, white water rafting and surfing or test your skills on the adventure course.

Timings: Sun, Tue, Wed noon to 11pm; Thu noon to midnight; Fri 9am to midnight; Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: Entry adults AED100, children under 1.2m AED50. Surf pool, kayaking and whitewater rafting AED100

Guide price: AED200

Desert safari QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT

6

Wildlife park

02 8862088

Explore the desert by four-wheel drive, either through the sand dunes or along a flat track.

02 8015400

Taking up much of Sir Bani Yas Island, this nature reserve is home to free-roaming cheetahs, Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes and much more.

Guide price: Nature and wildlife drive AED100, nature walk AED60

KNOW THE LAW

Timings: Dunes 6am,

Consumption of alcohol must be within licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs or private venues. Do not consume alcohol if driving.

03 7828188

TILAL LIWA HOTEL

Dancing is only allowed in the privacy of your hotel room or at licensed clubs.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

Discover the desert by 4x4 or quad bike and pause to try the exhilarating local sport of sandboarding down the dunes

State-of-the-art floodlit facility suitable for drivers aged eight years and upwards. Offers 'arrive and drive' sessions for individuals and small groups.

AL AIN ZOO

Timings: Mon to Wed 2.30 to 10pm, Thu and Fri 2.30 to 11pm, Sat 10.30am to 6pm. Closed Sunday Guide price: AED150 for 15 minutes, AED250 for 30 minutes, AED400 for one hour

to 7pm; Fri 10am to 8pm Guide price: Adults AED15, children AED5, free for children under three years

8.30am, 5.45pm. Flat sand 10.30am, 3.30pm Guide price: AED175

A desert-themed zoo with animals from the local area and African savannahs.

02 8946111

Guide price:AED400 for adults and AED200 for children

Offensive language, spitting and hand gestures must be avoided.

Married couples may hold hands in public, but not kiss or hug.

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Avoid addressing Muslim women in public or taking photographs without their permission.

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1

Shop

From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Abu Dhabi is a shopping haven with spacious malls and atmospheric souks

MALLS

THE GALLERIA

MUSHRIF MALL

Abu Dhabi's latest luxury mall features a wide selection of shopping and dining options in a waterfront setting.

Abu Dhabi’s newest mall with more than 200 outlets stocking fashion, accessories, jewellery, cosmetics, beauty and electronics, as well as dining and entertainment facilities.

02 6166999

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm Thu 10am to 12 midnight, Fri 12 noon to 12 midnight HAMDAN CENTRE

Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI MALL

02 6454858

02 6904422

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm

02 6328555

Houses fashion, sports equipment, jewellery and souvenirs at reasonable prices in addition to a cinema complex.

AL AIN MALL

Abu Dhabi Mall is one of the main attractions on the shopping scene with over 220 retail outlets, plus entertainment options.

Timings: Daily 10am to 1.30pm and 5 to 10.30pm

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 3.30 to 11pm

Spread over three levels with distinctive Islamic architecture, this mall has everything from fashion to furnishings.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri to Sat 10am to 11pm

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm

03 7638883

AL RAHA MALL

02 5562229

Close to Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Island, this mall has an array of fashion outlets plus a cinema and food court.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm AL WAHDA MALL

02 4437000, 02 4437070

With over 150 shops covering three floors, Al Wahda Mall houses fashion, jewellery and beauty stores as well as entertainment and restaurants.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm AVENUE AT ETIHAD TOWERS

800 3844238

This newly opened exclusive boulevard is home to almost 40 luxury shops, showcasing designer labels and high-end brands, spread across two levels.

Timings: Call for store timings

KHALIDIYAH MALL

02 6354000

MADINAT ZAYED SHOPPING CENTRE & GOLD CENTRE

02 6333311

The 400 outlets sell just about everything, while the adjacent Gold Centre is the ideal place to browse for gold, diamond and pearl jewellery.

Timings: Sat to Fri 9am to 11pm. Gold Centre Sat to Thu 9am to 2pm and 4 to 11pm, Fri 4 to 11pm MARINA MALL

02 6818300

A retail haven with a waterfront setting, Marina Mall has over 300 stores, a 100-metre-high viewing platform and an ice skating rink.

2

Al Ain 03 7660333

Offers over 100,000 square metres of retail and entertainment space spread over three floors, with cinemas, an ice skating rink and a bowling alley.

1 A. Lange & Söhne, available at Avenue at Etihad Towers 2 Spice souk 3 Lanvin, The Galleria 4 Aigner S/S 2014, available at Marina Mall 5 Marina Mall

AL JIMI MALL More than 110 shops to choose from offering a wide variety of products from fashion and jewellery to health and beauty.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 2 to 10pm 3

BAWADI MALL

03 7840000

Al Ain’s newest and largest mall offers an indoor ski slope, cinema, bowling alley, skating rink, family entertainment centre and almost 400 shops.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight

SOUKS

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to 11pm 4

Abu Dhabi THE SOUK AT WORLD TRADE CENTRE

02 8107810

Shop for traditional souvenirs, spices, jewellery, perfumes, sunglasses and electronics at this modern souk.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 11pm

MAGIC CARPET The art of carpet making has historical roots in this part of the world. Persian carpets are particularly sought-after and at the Carpet Souk in Abu Dhabi's Mina Port district shoppers will uncover a plethora of carpets and rugs from across Asia, alongside Arabianstyle cushions, Yemeni mattresses and much more.

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THE SOUK AT QARYAT AL BERI

02 5581670

Located next to the Shangri-La hotel is this classy, Arabian-themed souk with Venetian canals and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 3 to 10pm

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Taste

Superb restaurants and glamorous cocktail bars make Abu Dhabi a stylish and sophisticated choice for fine food and drink

HOTEL OUTLETS & PROMOTIONS

AL MAHA ARJAAN

02 6106666

Al Markaziyah City Café offers Mexican on Mondays, pasta on Tuesdays and Indian on Wednesdays for AED95. An à la carte menu with salad, soup, main and dessert is available on Thursdays and Saturdays for AED75 and Sunday features a seafood buffet for AED130.

City Café – International

ALOFT ABU DHABI

02 6545013

Al Safarat

For international fare and lounge pods for two complemented by an eclectic mix of laid-back tunes, don’t miss the evening brunch at Mai Café every Thursday from 6.30pm. On Tuesdays ladies enjoy freeflowing cocktails at Club So-Hi while Thursday is Global Fusion night with international pop, rock and house music by resident DJ Jose RC from 9pm to 3am.

Dine – International Mai Café – International Relax@12 – International WXYZ Bar - Bar

AL RAHA BEACH HOTEL

02 5080555

Al Raha Beach Sevilla Restaurant serves tasty international fare while Wanasah is a great venue for those seeking an introduction to authentic Arabian cuisine.

Al Manzil – International Azur Restaurant – Mediterranean Black Pearl – Piano bar Enigma – Nightclub Sevilla Restaurant – International Wanasah – Arabic

AL RAWDA ARJAAN ABU DHABI

02 4035000

Al Wahda

Choose international cuisine from the à la carte menu at Al Dar or the international buffet for speciality dishes. Enjoy light snacks, coffee and cakes at Moka Café.

Al Dar – International Moka Café – International

ARMED FORCES OFFICERS’ CLUB & HOTEL

02 4415900

Al Maqtaa

Head to Taverna for lively barbecue buffet nights every Wednesday with two house beverages included for AED120.

Al Bathna – International Kennedy – European Taverna – Tex-Mex

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BEACH ROTANA ABU DHABI

02 6979000

Tourist Club Area From April 7 to 25, Rodeo Grill celebrates Australia with classic and contemporary dishes made from Australian wagyu beef, paired with choice vintages from down under.

Bay View – Beach restaurant Benihana – American/Japanese Brauhaus – German Essence – International Finz – Seafood Indigo – Indian Prego’s – Italian Rodeo Grill – American steakhouse Trader Vic’s – French Polynesian

CENTRO CAPITAL CENTRE

02 4096666

Al Safarat

Contemporary cuisine is served throughout the day at C.Taste while drinks and light bites are available from C.Mondo.

C.Mondo – Lounge bar C.Taste – International buffet

CENTRO YAS ISLAND

02 6564444

Yas Island

C.Taste runs regular themed nights. Enjoy roasts on Mondays, burgers on Tuesdays, pasta on Wednesdays and barbecue on Thursdays for AED99 per person.

C.Deli – Deli C.Mondo – Lounge bar C.Taste – International buffet

CRISTAL HOTEL ABU DHABI

02 6520000

Madinat Zayed A special offer on mocktails at Gems Restaurant features refreshing, fruity beverages for AED20 this month.

Gems Restaurant – International

CRISTAL SALAM HOTEL

02 6597666

Tourist Club Area Visit Vertical bar during happy hour from 5 to 8pm when drinks are half price or swing by on a Wednesday for Spanish night with tasty tapas for AED99 per person. Champagne and strawberries with a chocolate or cream dip can be enjoyed for just AED325.

2.35 – International & Middle Eastern Vertical – Wine bar

CROWNE PLAZA ABU DHABI

02 6166122

Al Markaziyah Enjoy Vietnamese specialities at Cho Gao or treat yourself to Italian delicacies at Spaccanapoli where chef Carmelo has created a series of classic winter dishes featuring wild mushrooms and game.

Cho Gao – Asian Heroes Bar – Sports bar Level Lounge – Rooftop bar Spaccanapoli – Italian The Garden – International Vincent’s – Cocktail bar

CROWNE PLAZA ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND

02 6563000

Yas Island

Enjoy all-you-can-eat mussels for AED160 per person at Stills every Monday.

Barouk – Lebanese Jing Asia – Asian buffet Stills Bar & Brasserie – European bar and restaurant

1

DUSIT THANI ABU DHABI

2

02 6988888

Al Mushrif

This month Urban Kitchen launches two new weeky buffets: Northeast Asian on Sundays featuring Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Mongolian cuisines and Southeast Asian on Tuesdays featuring fare from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam.

Urban Kitchen – Arabic Benjarong – Thai Dusit Gourmet – Lounge The Capital Grill – Steakhouse Breeze – Bar

EASTERN MANGROVES HOTEL & SPA

02 6561000

Eastern Mangroves Pachaylen serves classic Thai cuisine with a modern twist in a contemporary setting. On Tuesdays, Ingredients hosts The Big Brunch, where five open kitchens team up to deliver a huge spread of delicious and creative cuisine.

Ingredients – All-day international Pachaylen – Thai restaurant Impressions – Rooftop lounge

EMIRATES PALACE

02 6909000

Ras Al Akhdar

3

1 Pachaylen, Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara 2 Li Beirut, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers 3 The Pool Deck, Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara 4 Lemon and Lime, The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa

From April 18 to 20 diners are invited to indulge in specially themed Easter menus at restaurants around Emirates Palace including BBQ Al Qasr, Sayad and Mezzaluna, or opt to try the Easter afternoon tea at Le Café.

BBQ Al Qasr – Al fresco BBQ Breeze Lounge – Spanish bar Cascades – International Diwan L’Auberge – Lebanese Etoiles – European restaurant and nightclub Hakkasan – Chinese Havana Club – Wine and cigar lounge Las Brisas – International Le Café & Caviar Bar – Caviar bar Le Vendôme – International buffet Mezlai – Emirati Mezzaluna – Italian Sayad – Seafood

FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR

02 6543000

Bain Al Jessrain Cedar Lounge serves delicious Arabian fare while Frankie's Italian Restaurant & Bar is one of the capital's top Italian eateries.

Cedar Lounge – Lebanese Chameleon – Champagne bar CuiScene – International buffet Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill – Steakhouse Frankie's Italian Restaurant & Bar – Italian The Chocolate Gallery - patisserie

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

GRAND MILLENNIUM AL WAHDA

02 4439999

Al Wahda

Tuck into Friday brunch at Porto Bello where a feast of beautifully prepared food awaits for AED195 per person. The restaurant is also hosting a special Easter brunch on April 20. Elsewhere at Al Wahda, Monday is Arabic Delight night, Tuesday is Indian Delicacies night and Wednesday is Tex-Mex night.

ACROSS THE GULF

Al Wahda – International buffet Porto Bello – Italian Porters – Pub Toshi – Asian

02 4180000

Tourist Club Area The Gallery all-day dining restaurant offers international flavours served with flair.

HILTON ABU DHABI

Ras Al Akdar

Al Khubeirah

02 5961234

Al Safarat

Watch the sun set over the terrace and soak up the atmosphere at 18° where diners can enjoy a culinary journey around the Mediterranean. Indulge in the classic brunch from AED250 per person or upgrade to the sky brunch from AED300 with bubbly. Elsewhere, every Wednesday evening Privé is hosting a wine and cheese night for AED150, while Monday is Italian night and guests can enjoy limitless food and beverages for the same price.

18° – Eastern Mediterranean Lounge – Tea lounge and bar Profiterole – Pastries Privé – Bar

INTERCONTINENTAL ABU DHABI

800 423463

Al Bateen

Those with a taste for variety can head to the Friday Marina Brunch for the best picks from restaurants across the hotel, including Chamas, Boccaccio, The Yacht Club and Belgian Café from AED216 per person.

From April 10 to 20 Belgian Café will host a strawberry festival featuring themed desserts.

Belgian Café – Belgian bar and restaurant Boccaccio – Italian Chamas Churrascaria & Bar – Brazilian restaurant and bar Piano Lounge – Piano bar Selections – International Fishmarket – Seafood The Yacht Club – Asian restaurant and bar

If you can't choose just one restaurant, experience all of them in one night with the Epicurean Escapades dining package from AED850 per person. Take a decadent culinary journey through Scott’s, Li Beirut, Tori No Su and Brasserie Angelique before indulging in dessert at Quest and ending with drinks at Ray's Bar.

02 6570000

02 6811900

HYATT CAPITAL GATE

Ras Al Akhdar

KHALIDIYA PALACE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA

The Gallery – International

Arabic Cafe – Arabic Bocca – Italian Cinnabar – Nightclub Escape Restaurant – Beachfront restaurant Hemingway’s – American bar and restaurant Jazz Bar & Dining – Jazz bar La Terrazza – Mediterranean Mawal – Lebanese Royal Orchid – Asian Toki – Japanese Vasco’s – International

02 8115555

Brasserie Angélique – French Li Beirut – Lebanese Nahaam – International Observation Deck – High tea Quest – Asian fusion Ray’s Bar – Bar Rosewater - International Scott’s – Seafood Tori No Su – Japanese Bice – Italian

HALA ARJAAN BY ROTANA

Italian restaurant Bocca serves contemporary cuisine in a stylish setting while Mawai offers excellent Lebanese fare for those seeking an athentic taste of Arabia.

JUMEIRAH AT ETIHAD TOWERS

Contemporary seafood restaurant The Beach has a choice of indoor or al fresco dining options overlooking the pool or beach.

Best for an authentic Emirati experience: Mezlai – Emirates Palace This luxury restaurant puts a five-star spin on the homely dishes of the UAE, inviting diners to try the likes of hammour mafrook – a delicious plate of local fish and cream served with bread.

Contact 02 6907999.

Best for pan-Arab cuisine: Al Wanasah – Al Raha Beach Hotel While the decor at this cosy restaurant is like stepping into a scene from the Arabian Nights stories, the menu offers a choice selection of mezze dishes, kebabs, savoury pastries, dips and other Arabian delicacies.

Contact 02 5080555.

Best for Moroccan cuisine: Agadir – The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa The menu at this exotic eatery offers an all-encompassing experience of the wonderful flavours of Morocco, spanning Tangiers, Casablanca, Essaouira and beyond.

Contact 02 6169999.

Best for Lebanese fare: Li Beirut – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Classic Lebanese cuisine is given an artful twist at this five-star eatery where diners can experience contemporary variations on traditional dishes.

Contact 02 8115666.

Horizon – International buffet The Beach – Seafood Sunset Bar – Beach restaurant

LE MÉRIDIEN ABU DHABI

02 6446666

Tourist Club Area This month, celebrate events from across the globe with a Greek-style Easter brunch on April 20, a Dutch King William Day celebration on April 25 and a Sri Lankan festival on April 11.

Al Birkeh – Lebanese Captain’s Arms – English pub Chi Chi’s – Tex-Mex G-Club – Nightclub La Brasserie – International Le Bistrot – French/sustainable NRG Sports Bar – Sports bar Opus Bar – Bar Pappagallo – Italian Talay – Thai Wakataua Terrace – Polynesian outdoor lounge

LE ROYAL MÉRIDIEN ABU DHABI

800 101101

Al Markaziyah Tuesday night at Café Palmier pays homage to Cajun cuisine with specialities such as live cray fish, pork barbecue and desserts such as Mardi Gras King Cake for AED199.

Fridays welcome the Fizz Factory Royale brunch from AED190 with soft drinks to AED399 with champagne. whEAT - Bistro Café Palmier – All-day dining Illusions – Nightclub P.J. O’Reilly’s – Irish pub Imago - Bar and restaurant Sax Restaurant Club – International restaurant and bar The Piano Lounge – Cocktail lounge

MERCURE CENTRE HOTEL

02 6333555

Al Markaziyah April 21 to 29 is cheese and wine week at Le Beaujolais and in addition to a selection of drinks and nibbles, guests can enjoy entertainment by the resident violinist, Maria.

Le Beaujolais – Bistro Le Jardin – International buffet Le Privé – French Mood Indigo – Lounge bar Pergola – Sports bar China Restaurant – Chinese

DINE BY CUISINE ARABIC Wanasah – Al Raha Beach Hotel Barouk – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island Diwan L’Auberge – Emirates Palace Hakkasan – Emirates Palace Mezlai – Emirates Palace Arabic Café – Hilton Abu Dhabi Mawal – Hilton Abu Dhabi Li Beirut – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Al Birkeh – Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Marakesh – Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi Pearls & Caviar – Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Al Hawara – The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi ArganaVert – The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi Agadir – The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa Atayeb - Yas Viceroy Hotel Min Zaman – Al Ain Rotana Hotel Makani Café – Hilton Al Ain Eden Rock – Mercure Grand Hotel Jebel Hafeet Al Waha – Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

ASIAN Benihana – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Cho Gao – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Jing Asia - Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island Pachaylen - Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa Royal Orchid – Hilton Abu Dhabi Toki - Hilton Abu Dhabi The Yacht Club Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Quest - Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Tori No Su - Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Talay - Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Soba - Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi China Restaurant Mercure Centre Hotel Wokcano - One to One Hotel, The Village Rouge - Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Hoi Ann - Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Silk and Spice - Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Sontaya - St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Kazu - Yas Viceroy Hotel Noodle Box – Yas Viceroy Hotel The Wok – Danat Al Ain Resort Orient Café – Mercure Grand Hotel Jebel Hafeet

INDIAN Indigo – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Rangoli – Yas Island Rotana Angar – Yas Viceroy Hotel Tanjore – Danat Al Ain Resort

INTERNATIONAL Dine – Aloft Abu Dhabi Al Manzil – Al Raha Beach Hotel

Sevilla Restaurant – Al Raha Beach Hotel Al Dar – Al Rawda Arjaan Abu Dhabi Al Bathna – Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel Essence – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi C.Taste – Centro Yas Island Gems Restaurant – Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi 2.35 – Cristal Salam Hotel The Garden – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Ingredients – Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa BBQ Al Qasr – Emirates Palace Cascades – Emirates Palace Las Brisas – Emirates Palace Le Vendôme – Emirates Palace CuiScene – Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Al Wahda – Grand Millenium Al Wahda The Gallery – Hala Arjaan by Rotana Vasco’s – Hilton Abu Dhabi Selections – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Chamas Churrascaria & Bar – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Nahaam – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Rosewater – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Horizon – Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana La Brasserie – Le Méridien Abu Dhabi L’Opera Brasserie – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Le Jardin – Mercure Centre Hotel Citrus – Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi Resto – One to One Hotel, The Village The Village Club – One to One Hotel, The Village Horizon Restaurant – Oryx Hotel West Side – Oryx Hotel The Café – Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant – Park Inn Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Mint – Park Inn Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Ginger All-Day Dining – Park Rotana Teatro – Park Rotana Assymetri – Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island Oceana Grill – Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Noche – Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Sofra Bld – Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Cloud Nine – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Flavours – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Downtown – Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel La Veranda – Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel Corniche All Day Dining – Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Optimist – The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi Fairways – The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa Afya – Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Afya Beach Lounge – Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Choices – Yas Island Rotana Origins – Yas Viceroy Hotel Zest – Al Ain Rotana Hotel Ayla Restaurant – Ayla Hotel

Arabesque – Danat Al Ain Resort Flavours – Hilton Al Ain Paco’s – Hilton Al Ain Tides – Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort The Palm – Desert Islands Resort & Spa Al Badiya – Tilal Liwa Hotel

MEDITERRANEAN Azur Restaurant – Al Raha Beach Hotel Prego’s – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Breeze Lounge – Emirates Palace Mezzaluna – Emirates Palace Frankie’s – Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Porto Bello – Grand Millenium Al Wahda Bocca – Hilton Abu Dhabi La Terrazza – Hilton Abu Dhabi 18° – Hyatt Capital Gate Boccaccio – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Bice – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Pappagallo – Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Amalfi – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Sevilo’s – Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi Beach House – Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Filini – Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island Oro – Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi La Mamma – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Olea – St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Amici – Yas Viceroy Hotel Luce – Danat Al Ain Resort Casa Romana Restaurant – Hilton Al Ain Zaitoun – Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort Ghadeer – Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

SEAFOOD Finz – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Le Café & Caviar Bar – Emirates Palace Sayad – Emirates Palace Cedar Lounge – Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Fishmarket – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Scott’s – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers The Beach – Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana Oceans Seafood Kitchen & Lounge – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Sennara – One to One Hotel, The Village La Mer – Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Turquoiz – St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Nautilus – Yas Viceroy Hotel

STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Grill - Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill 18 OZ – One to One Hotel, The Village Park Bar & Grill - Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas 55 & 5th, The Grill – St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Blue Grill – Yas Island Rotana Suhail - Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

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MILLENNIUM HOTEL ABU DHABI

PARK INN YAS ISLAND, ABU DHABI

SHERATON ABU DHABI HOTEL & RESORT

Al Markaziyah

Yas Island

Al Markaziyah

02 6262700

Sevilo's runs a Mamma Mia Serata promotion every Thursday offering guests an Italian feast of antipasti dishes, two mains and dessert for AED160.

Citrus – International Cristal Cigar & Champagne Bar – Champagne bar Marakesh – Moroccan Sevilo’s – Italian

NOVOTEL ABU DHABI AL BUSTAN

5

02 5016444

Airport Road The newly opened Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan presents a great choice of dining and leisure facilities.

5 6 7 8

Pepper – All day dining Cafe Caramel - Cafe Choice Cut Steak House – Steakhouse Amber Bar & Cafe - Belgian

Villa Toscana, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Agadir, The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa Sayad, Emirates Palace Al Waha, Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

NOVOTEL ABU DHABI GATE

02 5089999

Bain Al Jessrain A wide selection of cuisines from around the world is served in the daily buffet at Horizon for lunch and dinner.

Restaurant – International Al Gabbiano - Italian Al Nassim Pool bar – Snacks

6

ONE TO ONE HOTEL THE VILLAGE

02 4952000

Al Nahyan

Pile your plate high with freshly caught seafood for AED85 per person at the Sennara luncheon every Saturday. Over at Wokcano the emphasis is on Filippino dishes this month with an open buffet for AED90 per person. The Village Club serves up tasty barbecues in an alcohol-free environment.

18 OZ – Steakhouse Resto! – International buffet Sennara – Lebanese seafood The Village Club – International Wokcano – Asian

Every Tuesday Ameringo's Mexican Bar & Restaurant honours the humble taco. A perfect venue for a get-together with friends, tuck into a special menu of delicious tacos and margaritas as you catch up.

Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant – Mexican Mint – International buffet

PARK ROTANA

02 6573333

Al Matar

Soak up the creative atmosphere at Teatro and take your pick from the mouthwatering selection of fushion dishes on the menu which hail from Thailand, Japan, Italy, India, China and beyond.

Ginger All-Day Dining – International buffet Cooper's Bar & Restaurant – British gastro pub Teatro – International

RADISSON BLU HOTEL, ABU DHABI YAS ISLAND

02 6562000

Yas Island

Glam up for ladies' night every Wednesday at Filini where tables of four or more women receive a free bottle of Prosecco with their meal.

Assymetri – International buffet Fast Track Lobby Bar – Cocktail lounge Filini – Italian restaurant and bar

THE RITZ-CARLTON ABU DHABI, GRAND CANAL

02 8188888

Bain Al Jessrain On April 17 at Giornotte celebrate all things Spanish with cuisine and entertainment as part of the inaugural Feria de Abril Festival from AED215 per person. The next day, enjoy an international Easter buffet from AED290 for food only.

ORYX HOTEL

Giornotte – International The Forge – Steak house Li Jiang – Asian Mijana – Lebanese Sorso – Bar Dolce – Italian Café

Al Khalidiyah

ROSEWOOD ABU DHABI

Choose steak, salad and seafood from the à la carte menu and enjoy a dazzling view of the city as you dine at Horizon before heading to Blueline Bar for a nightcap.

Al Maryah Island

02 6810001

7

02 6562222

Blueline Bar – Bar Horizon Restaurant – International West Side – International

PARK HYATT ABU DHABI HOTEL & VILLAS

02 4071234

Saadiyat Island For some of the best steak in town, book a table in the evenings at Park Bar & Grill, where grade A cuts of beef are complemented by premium vintages from the venue's extensive wine cellar. Beach House serves wonderfully fresh Mediterranean fare for lunch and dinner in a rustic, seaside setting while afternoon tea and chocolates await in The Library before a roaring fire.

Beach House – Mediterranean Park Bar & Grill – Steak and seafood/bar The Café – International The Library – Tea lounge The Park Bar – Cocktail bar

02 8135550

For an authentic Arabian experience, head to Sambusek for dinner and try a selection of hot and cold mezzeh and Arabic main courses and desserts for AED215 per person including a shisha. The restaurant also serves a choice of set lunch menus for AED140 and a Saturday brunch from AED275.

Catalan – Spanish La Cava – Wine cellar Hidden Bar – Lounge bar Aqua – Italian Sambusek – Lebanese

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, QARYAT AL BERI

02 5098555

Bain Al Jessrain Celebrate Easter with a fivecourse set-menu lunch of French delicacies at Bord Eau on April 20 for AED250 with food only or AED400 with wine pairings.

Al Hanah – Wine bar Bord Eau – French Hoi An – Vietnamese Pearls & Caviar – Mediterranean restaurant and bar Shang Palace – Chinese Sofra bld – International

02 6773333

La Mamma is known for serving homely Italian food in a rustic setting. In the month of April, relish a four-course tasting menu from the Mediterranean island of Sardinia for AED200 per person. Elsewhere, Bravo Tapas Bar & Restaurant is an excellent spot for a romantic evening of Spanish tapas and pitchers of sangria.

B-Lounge by Beachcomber – Outdoor lounge Bravo Tapas Bar & Restaurant – Spanish Cloud Nine – International El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant – Mexican Flavours – International La Mamma – Italian The Tavern – English pub The Beachcomber – Tapas

SHERATON KHALIDIYA HOTEL

02 6666220

Al Khalidiyah Downtown restaurant has a three-course set dinner menu every night starting from AED99, which includes soup, main course and dessert. During the day there is a business lunch from noon to 4pm for AED85.

Downtown – International La Veranda – International buffet The 3rd Avenue – Bar

SOFITEL ABU DHABI CORNICHE

02 8137777

Al Markaziyah La Mer serves gourmet seafood dishes while Silk and Spice specialises in the best of Thai cuisine. Jazz 'N Fizz is a popular watering hole with an excellent choice of wines.

Corniche All Day Dining – International Jazz ’N Fizz Bar – Bar La Mer – French seafood Silk and Spice – Thai

THE ST.REGIS ABU DHABI

02 6944444

Al Khubeirah Every Saturday until the end of April celebrity chef Gary Rhodes' restaurant Rhodes 44 is hosting a barbecue brunch of grilled meats and a choice of drinks packages from AED240 per person. On Easter Sunday, celebrate with Italian-style delicacies such as slow cooked Val d’Arbia lamb, mousse of polenta and red snapper at Villa Toscana from AED270 for adults and AED80 for children over seven.

Rhodes 44 – International Villa Toscana – Italian Café 44 – Patisserie Azura - Lounge Crystal Lounge - Bar The St. Regis Bar - light snacks

THE ST. REGIS SAADIYAT ISLAND RESORT

02 4988888

Saadiyat Island Whether you're looking for a lavish Friday brunch or a relaxed Sunday buffet, Oléa has options to suit all tastes over Easter weekend. Plus, join the big Easter egg hunt and be in with the chance of winning prizes such as jewellery and hotel stays.

55th&5th, The Grill – Steakhouse Oléa – Mediterranean Sontaya – Southeast Asian Turquoiz – Seafood

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

9

ARABIC TASTE

AL AIN

THE ROYAL HOTEL ABU DHABI

Al Markaziyah Al Hawara offers Lebanese cuisine on the rooftop with stunning views of the sea, while Basil serves tasty Indian fare, including some very spicy curries.

Al Hawara – Lebanese Basil – Indian Optimist – International

AL AIN ROTANA HOTEL

THE WESTIN ABU DHABI GOLF RESORT & SPA

03 7545111

Al Muwaiji

02 6169999

Sas Al Nakhl

Agadir – Moroccan Fairways – International Lemon & Lime – Bar The Retreat – Bar

10

TRADERS HOTEL, QARYAT AL BERI

02 5108888

Bain Al Jessrain

Moutabel: A delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine.

Fattoush: This Levantine salad is made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread and mixed with lettuce, cucumber, onion and other vegetables.

Sambusek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach.

Ouzi: This popular baked lamb and spiced rice dish is a favourite during Ramadan, the Islamic holy month.

Umm Ali: Similar to bread and butter pudding served in the west, this favourite Arabic dessert contains milk, pastry and nuts, and is a staple dish in many buffets.

Yas Island

Ayla Restaurant – International Tamra Cafe – Tea lounge

DANAT AL AIN RESORT

03 7046000

Al Nyadat East The Wok hosts a seafood night every Tuesday for AED99.

Alternatively, visit Arabesque on Thursdays for a full buffet of lobster, shrimps, oysters and mussels for AED140.

Blue Grill – Steakhouse Choices – International buffet Rangoli – Indian Y Bar – Bar

YAS VICEROY ABU DHABI

02 6560600

Yas Island

Al Nawafeer Terrace – Arabic snacks and shisha Arabesque – International Horse & Jockey Pub – English pub Luce – Italian restaurant and nightclub Shooters – Sports bar Tanjore – Indian The Wok – Asian

9 Hoi An, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri 10 Shang Palace, Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri 11 Li Jiang, The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi Grand Canal

Feast on cakes and pastries accompanied by a glass of bubbly at afternoon tea every Saturday for AED225 per person. At Angar, diners can tuck into gourmet Indian fare complemented by a range of Indian beers and refreshing Lassi yoghurt drinks.

MERCURE GRAND HOTEL JEBEL HAFEET

03 7838888

Jebel Hafeet Eden Rock restaurant serves tasty Arabian fare while, at Lawrence’s Lounge bar, ladies receive a complimentary cocktail on Thursday nights.

Amici – Italian Angar – Indian Atayeb – Arabic Kazu – Japanese Nautilus – Seafood Noodle Box – Asian Origins – International buffet Rush – Cocktail bar Skylite – Cabana lounge

02 8015400

Book a table on the terrace at Amwaj restaurant and enjoy a selection of dishes from the tapas-style menu in a waterfront setting before indulging in homemade ice-cream.

Alternatively, dine on delectable seafood at Samak, where the resident salt guru can advise you on the best condiments to complement your dish.

Samak – Seafood The Lounge – Lounge bar Amwaj - Tapas The Palm – International

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA

02 8862088

Liwa Desert Treat the taste buds to an eclectic feast at the Al Waha international and Emirati buffet, which features food from countries around the world. Prices range from AED130 per person for breakfast to AED175 for lunch and AED200 for dinner.

Al Liwan – Lobby lounge and bar Al Waha – International/Emirati Ghadeer – Mediterranean Suhail – Steakhouse

TILAL LIWA HOTEL

02 8946111

Madinat Zayed Enjoy Thursday's seafood barbecue night at Al Badiya for AED160 or book a table during the week for delicious internatinal cuisine.

Al Badiya – International Al Liwan – Snacks Layali – Bar

Eden Rock – Arabic Le Belvedere – French-Mediterranean Lawrence's Lounge – Bar Orient Café – Oriental

BILL PLEASE

WINING AND DINING

As a general rule, all hotels will add a 10 percent charge to restaurant bills in addition to the six percent fee levied by the government.

Most menus state whether these taxes have already been incorporated or not but check with the waiter if it is unclear.

Although the UAE is a Muslim country, alcohol is permitted in several emirates including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Wine, Champagne and spirits are available in most five-star hotels, but be warned, there is zero tolerance to drink-driving and being drunk in public is a crime, both punishable with a fine and, in more serious cases, imprisonment.

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Sir Bani Yas Island

YAS ISLAND ROTANA

Some of the best steaks in town are accompanied by a selection of fine wines from Argentina, America and Australia at Blue Grill. A wide selection of cuisines from across the world is available at the Choices buffet.

C-View – Lobby lounge Gazebo – Shisha café L’Attitude – Cocktail bar and lounge Tides – International Zaitoun – Italian

AYLA HOTEL

Ayla Restaurant holds themed buffets throughout the week such as Teachers Night on Monday for AED69, Mediterranean Fish Night on Wednesday for AED100 and Moroccan Night on Friday for AED111.

Celebrate Easter on April 20 with an international buffet lunch for just AED100 for adults.

02 6564000

Tides international restaurant serves Asian and Continental dishes while Zaitoun offers Italian fine dining. Relax at Gazebo with a shisha in the evening.

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

Al Mutaredh

Afyä – International buffet Afyä Beach Lounge – Barbecue

Ruwais

Min Zaman – Lebanese Moodz – Lounge bar and club Trader Vic’s – French Polynesian restaurant and bar Zest – International

03 7610111

On April 20, take the whole family to Afyä and entertain the children with face painting and playground activities as you dine on a vast spread of international cuisine at the Easter brunch.

DANAT JEBEL DHANNA RESORT

02 8012222

At Zest, there’s steak ‘n’ barbecue night every Monday from 6.30 to 10.30pm where guests can select their favourite cuts to be grilled before their eyes for AED168 per person. Seafood night at Zest takes place every Wednesday from 6.30 to 10.30pm and costs AED185 per person.

Agadir serves some of the best Mococcan cuisine in the capital and diners can enjoy five-star fare from AED159 each. The tagines are the highlights of the menu and are well worth trying.

Hummous: Wellknown and loved even beyond the Middle East, this Arabic dip or spread is made from cooked and mashed chickpeas blended with ground sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic.

AL GHARBIA

02 8152222

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HERITAGE VILLAGE Designed to resemble a traditional oasis village, this quaint attraction provides an interesting glimpse into the emirate’s past. There’s a Bedouin tent, reconstructions of original date palm houses, an example of the ancient falaj irrigation system and a small spice shop selling dried herbs and other trinkets.

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EMIRATES PALACE The iconic palace stands in pride of place at the tip of the Abu Dhabi Corniche and embodies the luxury lifestyle the capital has cultivated. Until recently the most expensive hotel ever to be built, the impressive structure is richly adorned with precious materials.

12 different shades of marble can be spotted in the cavernous atrium, while the central dome holds dual records as both the largest in the world and the greatest gilded expanse ever created in one building.

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ABU DHABI VISITOR MAP HOTELS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana C3 Aloft Abu Dhabi F7 Al Raha Beach Hotel M5 Al Rawda Arjaan by Rotana D4 Armed Forces Officers’ Club and Hotel G8 Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi D3 Centro Capital Centre by Rotana F7 Centro Yas Island M4 Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi C3 Cristal Salam Hotel D3 Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi C3

MAP ABU DHABI_APR2014.indd 86

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Crowne Plaza, Abu Dhabi Yas Island M4 Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi E5 Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa

by Anantara G6 Emirates Palace A5 Fairmont Bab Al Bahr H7 Grand Millennium Al Wahda D4 Hala Arjaan D2 Hilton Abu Dhabi B4 Hilton Abu Dhabi Capital Grand G7 Hyatt Capital Gate Hotel F7 InterContinental Abu Dhabi B5 Jumeirah at Etihad Towers B5

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Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan

by Rotana B5 Le Méridien Abu Dhabi D3 Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi C3 Mercure Centre Hotel C3 Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi C3 Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate I8 Hotel Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan F6 One to One Hotels - The Village D4 Oryx Hotel B4 Park Inn, Abu Dhabi Yas Island M4 Park Arjaan by Rotana H6 Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas F1

36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Park Rotana H6 Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi M4 Yas Island Rosewood Abu Dhabi D3 Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri H7 Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort C2 Sheraton Khalidiya C4 Sofitel, Abu Dhabi Corniche C3 Staybridge Suites, Abu Dhabi Yas Island M4 St. Regis Abu Dhabi B4 St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort F1 The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, H7 Grand Canal

The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa 49 Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri 50 Yas Island Rotana 51 Yas Viceroy 47 48

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Abu Dhabi Mall Al Muhairy Centre Al Raha Mall Al Wahda Mall Avenue at Eithad Towers

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YAS WATERWORLD Yas Waterworld is the newest addition to the island’s impressive portfolio of sport and leisure attractions. Included among the 43 rides, slides and attractions here is the first hydromagnetic-powered six-person Tornado waterslide and the largest FlowBarrel 10 Double sheet-wave ride in the world.

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FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI The first ever Ferrari theme park is home to Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster on the planet, which reaches speeds of up to 240 kilometres per hour. Other rides include G-Force, which climbs up through the open roof, affording spectacular views of Yas Island, before hurtling 62 metres back to earth and the Fiorano GT Challenge, which offers an exhilarating simulated racing experience. There are rides for all the family here, from fast-paced coasters to leisurely tours and interactive games.

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SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE Built by the late Sheikh Zayed to help build a bridge between faiths and create greater cross-cultural understanding, the Grand Mosque is a must-see for any visitor to Abu Dhabi. The third-largest mosque in the world, this majestic structure is wrought from over 1,000 columns and 82 domes embellished with semi-precious stones, gold and marble. Inside, the spectacle is equally impressive with glittering chandeliers, spectacular floral motifs adorning the walls and a vast hand-woven Persian carpet in the main prayer hall.

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Boutik Mall Carpet Souk The Souk at World Trade Centre Dalma Mall Fotouh Al Khair Centre Hamdan Centre Iranian Souk Khalidiya Mall Liwa Centre Madinat Zayed Shopping and Gold Centre Marina Mall Paris Gallery The Galleria The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri

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YAS MARINA CIRCUIT Home to the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit is one of the capital’s most famous sporting attractions. Visitors can experience it all year round at one of the many events on the annual calendar or on a tour that takes in its state of the art facilities, from the drag strip and karting centre to the track itself, which boasts the longest straight in Formula 1.

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GOLF Abu Dhabi City Golf Club Abu Dhabi Golf Club

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HERITAGE/CULTURE Al Hosn Palace Cultural Foundation Falcon Hospital Gallery One Ghaf Art Gallery Heritage Village Manarat Al Saadiyat Salwa Zeidan Gallery Zayed Centre

Ask the concierge desk for a copy of the Concierge Abu Dhabi foldout map with tips on what to see and do in the city

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SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club Abu Dhabi Sailing & Sub Aqua Club 3 Al Forsan International Sports Resort 4 Art Marine yacht charters 5 Falcon Aviation Services (helipad base) 1 2

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{

My life in Abu Dhabi Parisa Birgani, co-founder of local blog, The Fashion Hub, discusses life in the UAE capital

}

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When I first arrived here 15 years ago, Abu Dhabi had little to offer in retail terms. Now, the city is on its way to becoming a global fashion hub and one of the best shopping destinations in the region. Currently, my time is split between working towards a fashion marketing degree at university and running my style portal, The Fashion Hub. I also take on ad hoc roles in fashion and work variously as a stylist, contributor and promoter.

One of the things I like most about Abu Dhabi is the diversity of people and places here. There’s always someone interesting to meet or a new venue to check out. When I’m not blogging, studying or shopping I’m often trying the latest restaurants. One of my favourites at the moment is Koi, a new Japanese restaurant that just opened in The Collection on Saadiyat Island. It has a slick interior and a trendy vibe that makes it perfect for a night out on the town.

The retail scene in Abu Dhabi is constantly expanding with a number of new luxury malls that will soon be followed by more major shopping centres due to launch over the coming months and years. One of my favourites, however, is Marina Mall on the

For designer wear, I tend to go to Avenue at Etihad Towers, a dedicated luxury mall that features only the top-end brands and is great for those seeking an exclusive shopping experience

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Abu Dhabi breakwater. It may not be the largest or newest but it does have the best mix of high-street and luxury fashion in my opinion.

For designer wear, I tend to go to Avenue at Etihad Towers located nearby. This is a dedicated luxury mall and features only the top-end brands so it’s great for those seeking an exclusive shopping experience. Bulgari, Cartier, Hermès, Manolo Blahnik, Lanvin and, my personal favourite, Givenchy, are among the leading luxury retailers that have opened boutiques here.

For relaxation, I head to the beach on Saadiyat Island. It’s a wonderfully tranquil spot that I highly recommend to anyone who likes to sunbathe or simply admire stunning natural scenery.

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Ronald Codrai Š TCA Abu Dhabi

Qasr al Hosn: The Story of Abu Dhabi and its People A permanent exhibition accompanied by a public programme of talks and workshops.

For more information, please call 02 697 6472 or email qasralhosn@tcaabudhabi.ae Qasr al Hosn Centre, Abu Dhabi 09:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20:00

qasralhosnfestival.ae visitabudhabi.ae

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