www.mydubaiconnection.com
Minimum 4 pax
NEW YEAR Party Package Available
24/7 Res.:
Tel.: 04-2222022 / 050-4227456 / 050-9817944 DESERT SAFARI
• Free Pick & Drop • Desert Dune Bashing • BBQ & Veg. Dinner • Sand Surfing • Camel Riding • Sunset Photography • Belly Dancing • Tanura Dancing • Soft Drinks / Tea • Smoking Sheesha • Henna Designing
Pickup: 3:30pm | Drop-off: 9.30pm
RED
DESERT
ED 150 Now
ED 200 Now
A
A
120 ($33)
ABU DHABI TOUR
ED 275 A Now
Any time - Duration : 10 Hrs.
174 ($48) • Free Pick & Drop • Free Soft Drinks • Sheikh Zayed Mosque • Yas Island Visit • Ferrari World Stop
• Emirates Palace Visit • Presidential Palace • Heritage Village Tour • Marina Mall Visit • Corniche Visit
CREEK DINNER CRUISE From 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm.
• Welcome Drinks • 2 Hrs. Creek Cruising • Continental Dinner • Soft Drinks / Tea • Tanura Dance • Magic Show • Arabian Folk Dance • Henna Designs • Background Music
DUBAI CITY TOUR
ED 150 Now
A
99($27)
ED 125 Now
A
Any time - Duration : 5 Hrs.
99($27)
• Free Pick & Drop • Free Museum Tickets • Free Soft Drinks • Burj Al Arab • Burj Khalifa • Atlantis Hotel
AWEER DESERT
• Palm Island • Dubai Marina • Jumeirah Beach • Dubai Creek • Dubai Museum • And much more...
140 ($38)
FERRARI WORLD TOUR
ED 425 Now
A
Any time - Duration : 10 Hrs.
324 ($88)
• Free Pick & Drop • Free Soft Drinks • Free Entry Ticket • Fastest Roller Coaster • 4-D Adventure • 20 Exciting Rides • Entertainment Shows • Unique Shopping & Food Court Experience
5* MARINA DINNER CRUISE Pickup: 7:30pm | Drop off: 11:00pm
• Free Pick & Drop • Welcome Drinks • 2 Hrs. Marina Cruising • Exclusive 5* Catering • Soft Drinks / Tea • Belly Dancing Show • Arabian Lounge Music • Stunning Marina Views
BEST BUY DEALS AED • Morning Desert Safari • Mountain Safari • Hummer Safari • Oasis Adventure • Oman Dibba Tour • Chauffeur Driven Service • Burj Al Arab Tour • Deep Sea Fishing
ED 250 Now
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199($55)
REMARKS
575/- (Upto 6 Pax) 199/- (Per Pax) 220/- (Per Pax) 175/- (Per Pax) 325/- (Per Pax) 550/- (10 Hrs.) 300/- (Per Pax) 2400/- (Upto 8 Pax)
COMBO TOURS
Desert Safari + Dubai Tour 215/Creek Cruise Dinner + Dubai Tour 195/Desert Safari + Creek Cruise Dinner 215/Dubai Tour + Desert Safari + Creek Cruise Dinner 315/Abu Dhabi Tour + Ferrari World Tour 399/6 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
jimmykhan786@yahoo.com • www.butterflytourism.ae
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www.mydubaiconnection.com
Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 7
Allow 5mm margin from the RIGHT cutting line
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Managing Editor: Lynda Darai Acting Editor: Louise Carne Sales Manager: Tara Mitchell Senior Graphic Designer: Connie Elshall Graphic Designer: Aemi Grutas
Welcome to Dubai!
Whether you're here with family, as a couple or with friends you've picked a great time of year to visit us. The weather is perfect for dining al fresco, chilling on the beach, playing golf or one of the many exciting outdoor activities on offer. For the fashion pack we have world class shopping, for the sports lovers there's golf, scuba diving and even sand boarding! For some time out, spa lovers can induldge in one of our beautiful and relaxing spas. This is the city to spend your days chilling and your nights partying!
Discover Dubai is published by: Connector Publishing FZ LLC, Dubai, Office 112 & 113, Building 4, Dubai Media City PO Box 26435, Dubai, UAE E-mail: conector@emirates.net.ae Website www.mydubaiconnection.com For advertising & distribution enquiries contact: Tel: 04-3902727 Fax: 04-3908058 For editorial/subscription & Green Page enquiries contact: Tel: 04-3902728 Fax: 04-3908058 Discover Dubai is audited by BPA Worldwide
Whatever you get up to... Enjoy! Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai Discover Dubai is brought to you by Connector Publishing, the publishers of Connector magazine, the popular residents’ guide to Dubai. Connector has been awarded Superbrand recognition for seven consecutive years from 2004 to 2012, celebrating its status as one of the top 50 brand names in the UAE. Contents of this publication are copyright. No material may be reproduced without written permission. Notice and disclaimer... The material used in this publication is intended to be used for informational purposes only. A sincere effort has been made to report accurate information.
10 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
contents December 2012 General Information
14
Events This Month
20
Dining Out
22
34
Nightlife & Entertainment 30 Sights & Attractions
34
Sports & Activities
48
14
48
22
Shopping
53
Real Estate
58
Health & Beauty
62
Map of Dubai
66
Green Pages Directory 71 Find Discover Dubai
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GENERAL information
Welcome to
Dubai
Visit visas are normally valid for 30 days, however visa issues are always subject to change and it is recommended that you check the current policy; All Arab GCC countries, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland,France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, UK, USA and Vatican City. Passengers arriving who intend working in Dubai are required to collect their original work visa permit from the designated desks at the end of the arrivals tunnel before taking the escalators or lifts to passport control and immigration desks.
Passport control
Arriving at Dubai Airport
Dubai International Airport is considered to be the busiest airport in the Middle East and is one of the major airports in the world today with over 50.44 million passengers passing through in 2011, representing a growth of 6.8% from 2010. Passenger traffic is expected to grow to 54 million passengers in 2012. Sheikh Rashid Terminal was opened in 2000 and Terminal 3, the world’s largest terminal costing over US$ 4 billion and catering exclusively for Emirates flights, opened on 14th October 2008. Upon completion of the expansion and construction programme Dubai International Airport will be capable of handling a staggering 70 million passengers per year.
Visa services
At the time of going to press, citizens of the following countries are able to receive an automatic visit visa upon arrival in Dubai. 14 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
Visitors to Dubai will need a valid passport or travel documentation and visa. A total of 32 countries have been exempted from requiring a visa allowing them to enter the country. Please remember that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. Depending on the time of your arrival the Immigration Hall can become very busy and it is not unusual to queue for in excess of an hour, especially if you arrive at about midnight when the Immigration Hall is particularly busy.
Marhaba services
If you are visiting relatives or friends, or just arriving at a busy time you may wish to consider booking Marhaba (meaning Welcome) which is a meet and greet welcoming service. Marhaba services can either escort the passenger directly from the aircraft or at various other easily identifiable meeting areas within the Arrivals Terminal. The Marhaba staff are friendly, helpful and are easily identifiable in their bright yellow uniforms. Without a doubt the best feature about the service is that they provide a dedicated passport control desk which whisks you through the Immigration Hall without the need to join a lengthy queue, all important after a long flight especially if you are elderly or have tired children. The Marhaba escort will also assist in retrieving your luggage from the baggage carousel and escorting you from the airport.
The Marhaba service can be booked by accessing www.marhabaservices.com or by calling (009714) 216 2656/7. It is recommended that you book Marhaba at least 24 hours in advance to receive immediate confirmation. Marhaba Services can also be pre-booked for departing Dubai International Airport. The escort will assist the passenger in checking in and the passenger will again have priority access to their designated passport control counter, buggy services and dedicated Marhaba lounge.
CUSTOMS ALLOWANCE Duty free allowance on arrival in Dubai is:
• 4 litres of liquor or wine. • 400 cigarettes or 2 kilos of tobacco. • Cigars to the value of Dhs 3,000. If you do not want to unnecessarily carry your duty free allowance on to and off the plane, you can purchase all duty free goods from the Dubai Duty Free outlets after you pass the Immigration desks in the Arrivals Hall and before the baggage reclaim area.
ARRIVALS HALL
After reclaiming your baggage and exiting the customs area at Terminal 2, there is an arrivals hall where the following services are offered: • Dubai Hotel Reservations have a one-stop travel desk situated after the customs x-ray machines. Arriving passengers can book hotels, tour packages and airline tickets here. • A Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) tourist kiosk is available 24 hours a day where tourist information, maps and general advice may be obtained. • Numerous car rental firms are represented. • A dedicated lounge is available for unaccompanied minors and passengers with special needs. Those waiting to greet passengers can do so here and either airline or ground handling staff will bring the arriving passenger to this lounge.
If you have flown in to Dubai with Emirates Airlines you cannot fail to be impressed with the facilities at Terminal 3. www.mydubaiconnection.com
DUBAI DUTY FREE
After checking in at Dubai International Airport make sure that you leave yourself plenty of time to browse the world famous, award winning, Dubai Duty Free. Dubai Duty Free opened for business on 20th December 1983 with first year sales reaching US$ 20 million. This compares to sales in 2011 which reached a total in excess of US$ 1.46 billion. Dubai Duty Free will continue to grow and expand as it builds up its multi-billion dollar expansion strategy. The opening of Emirates Terminal 3 in October 2008 has resulted in the retail operation more than doubling in size from 7,000 square metres to 15,000 square metres. Dubai Duty Free is also planning the retail operation in Dubai World Central in Jebel Ali which will eventually handle 120 million passengers per year. Additionally every passenger travelling through Dubai International Airport has the opportunity to become a dollar millionaire by entering the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw. There are only 5,000 tickets sold and tickets may be purchased at a cost of Dhs 1,000 (US$ 278). Alternatively there are opportunities to win one of several high-quality cars such as a Mercedes Benz, Rolls Royce, Porsche or Bentley. The same rules apply as the ‘Millionaire’ draw, however the tickets are priced at Dhs 500 (US$ 139) and only 1,000 tickets are sold. Dubai Duty Free also guarantees to deliver the car anywhere in the world and such is the popularity of the draw, that on average, one luxury car is raffled every week and to date there have been over 1,500 winners. Dubai tops the global duty free spending league, with shoppers at Dubai Duty Free spending more than US$ 46 a head on average, which is three times more than anywhere else in the world. In continental Europe, the average duty free spend is less than US$ 15 per head and it is below US$ 10 in North America. Dubai's nearest competitor is the Middle East region as a whole, averaging US$ 15.59 per head. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 15
GENERAL information
Dubai public decency laws
Dubai is, by and large, an extremely liberal city, but it pays to bear in mind that you are visiting an Islamic country and there is an old saying, ‘When in Rome do as the Romans do’. This advice is well worth bearing in mind when you are on holiday here, because there have been several high profile instances in the last few years of both residents and tourists getting into trouble with the authorities when their behavior has been deemed to be inappropriate. Public decency laws are not new and have always existed in Dubai. You would be well advised not to take these laws lightly because if someone takes offence to your behaviour and reports it to the police there is a likelihood that you will be arrested and put before the courts. It is not a defence on your behalf to claim ignorance. Offensive hand signals and swearing in public are not tolerated in Dubai. Again, there have been several reported instances where western ex-pats have been involved in driving incidents and have made a rude gesture to the other driver who has reported them to the police. Irrespective of who was initially at fault there will be no defence if you are found to have made an obscene gesture or have sworn at the other person.
Rules of conduct
In all public places such as streets, shopping malls and restaurants, shorts and skirts should be of appropriate length. This means that knees and shoulders should be covered. Clothing should not indecently expose parts of the body, be transparent, or display obscene or offensive pictures and slogans. If you are deemed to be inappropriately dressed in a shopping mall you may be served with a notice by security staff and politely, but firmly, requested to leave the mall.
Appropriate clothing
Men and women should wear conservative swimwear that is acceptable to Dubai’s culture when at the beach. Swimwear should
16 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
not be worn away from the beach, the wearing of decent dress is the rule in the rest of the city. Nudity is strictly forbidden in every part of the city and is liable to be punished by imprisonment or deportation. It is not acceptable for men to walk around public areas without a shirt.
displays of affection
Displays of affection in a public place among couples, whether married or not, does not sit well with the local culture. Holding hands for a married couple is tolerated, but kissing and petting are considered as offensive to public decency. Public displays of affection, as well as sexual harassment or randomly addressing women in public places, are liable to be punished by a warning or fine and in some cases may lead to imprisonment or deportation.
Crime
Dubai has a very low crime rate, a significant factor for many expat residents when deciding to relocate here. The police are helpful and generally friendly if you stay on the right side of the law. When on holiday though many people tend to relax a little more and some will drink more than they would do normally, so it may be beneficial to read the following pointers.
Drunkenness
As in most countries, it is a criminal offence to be drunk in a public place. Take a taxi, they are cheap and plentiful!
Drinking and driving
There is a zero tolerance policy and if you are caught with the slightest amount of alcohol in your blood you will go to prison.
Drugs
Don’t even think about it. If you are caught in possession of the slightest bit of cannabis you could be sent to prison for anything from four to seven years and then deported. Anyone caught importing drugs into Dubai is potentially looking at a life sentence.
Accommodation
There is a huge choice of accommodation available in Dubai ranging from unlisted hotels charging less than Dhs 200 per night, to suites in the most luxurious hotels available from well over Dhs 10,000 per night. The beach hotels are situated in Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim or Dubai Marina and they all have direct access to the beach. Most of the city hotels are located in Bur Dubai, Deira and Garhoud or on the main highway, Sheikh Zayed Road, and some will provide a shuttle service either to a beach hotel with whom they share services, or to one of the public beaches. Renting an apartment may be a cheaper option than staying in a hotel, especially if you intend staying in Dubai for longer than the usual package holiday or if you simply wish to have greater flexibility. There is a huge choice of serviced apartments and most are clean, spacious and are supplied fully furnished. Many will have access to a
Car Rental
There are endless varieties of cars available from reputable car rental companies in Dubai. Depending on how much you are willing to spend, cars ranging from economy models to offroaders to top of the range performance vehicles are all available. Hiring a car is a great way to get out and about and see Dubai and gives the tourist maximum flexibility. Additionally most rental companies are extremely customer-friendly and will deliver to, and collect the car from, your hotel or apartment. Many petrol stations in the UAE do not accept credit cards so it is always a good idea to have sufficient cash to pay for your petrol. Prices are regulated in the UAE and petrol is inexpensive compared to European countries with prices currently ranging between Dhs 1.72 and Dhs 1.83 per litre. Expect to pay about Dhs 100 www.mydubaiconnection.com
gymnasium and swimming pool and possibly also offer a daily maid service. As a guide, one bedroom apartment prices will vary from Dhs 3,500 per week to Dhs 12,000 per week depending on the time of year, quality and location. However prices do tend to drop considerably in the summer months. for unleaded petrol (called ‘Special’) to fill an economy car aup to a maximum of Dhs 170 for a larger car or 4X4. Rental companies will generally quote for third party, CDW and theft insurance so if you require fully comprehensive insurance you will need to make this clear when arranging the car. When you take delivery of a rental car you will require your passport, driving licence, two passport photographs and the payment or credit card. As you can see from the photograph above there are occasions, especially when you leave built-up areas, when sand swirls across the road especially on windy days. If this happens try to take extra care - you will not be the first person to come across camels casually strolling down the middle of the road. IDrivers must be aged over 21 years to drive a small economy car and over 25 to drive a larger car with an engine capacity over 2 litres. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 17
GENERAL information
The Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is a driverless system and will eventually be 70 kilometres long with 47 stations linking Jebel Ali, Bur Dubai, Deira and Dubai Airport with Al Maktoum International Airport currently under construction at Jebel Ali. The Metro runs from 5.50am until midnight from Saturday to Wednesday, 5.50am until 1am on Thursday and from 1pm to 1am on Friday. Trains run every 4 minutes during the rush hours and at intervals of 7 minutes at all other times. Each station is served by feeder buses to convey passengers to destinations in the immediate vicinity and your Nol ticket is valid for the entire journey. The most applicable ticket for tourists is the Red Nol ticket priced between Dhs 2 and Dhs 6.50 depending on the length of journey, however if you wish to travel in style a Gold Class ticket ranges between Dhs 4 and Dhs 13; children under 5 years travel free of charge. Tickets may be purchased at the ticket office within each station. The Green Line links areas north of Dubai International Airport with the Corniche and Al Jadaf at Dubai Creek. The Green Line also links up with the Red Line at Khalid Bin al Waleed station (BurJuman) and Union station in Deira.
Limousines
For the ultimate luxury night out with a larger group of friends, or to make a real impression, why not consider hiring a chauffeur driven limousine to collect you from your hotel and allow you to arrive at your restaurant or nightclub destination in real style. The prices are surprisingly affordable, especially when split between 8 or 10 people and very
18 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
reasonable if the limo is only hired for a one-way journey. After all you can always get a taxi back to your accommodation. Some limo companies provide, amongst other limos, a stretch Hummer which leases at around Dhs 500 per hour. For other stretch limousines expect to pay about Dhs 300 for 3 hours for 3 passengers, rising to Dhs 1,000 for a group of 14 passengers for 3 hours. Prices include the driver, insurance, unlimited mileage and soft drinks. For details and contact numbers for car rental and limo leasing agencies please see the Green Page Listings at the back of Discover Dubai. When readers of Discover Dubai book 3 hours with Dubai Exotic Limo (see advert opposite) they will receive 1 hour's use of the limousine free. See the discount voucher in the pink pages section at the back of this magazine.
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THIS month
Events LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) has announced that Academy Award winning actor Colin Firth and his fashion entrepreneur wife Livia will attend the Festival this year to support the annual ‘One Night to Change Lives’ charity event. The couple who are Global Ambassadors for Oxfam along with Kristin Davis will be among the many international celebrity attendees including Rooney Mara, Amr Waked and Ali Mostafa at the annual black-tie charity evening on 14th December at the prestigious Armani Hotel in Dubai. All proceeds from the exclusive gala dinner and high-end auction featuring one-of-a-kind prizes donated by celebrity Oxfam partners will go to the UAE-based philanthropic organisation Dubai Cares and global development and aid agency, Oxfam. To purchase tickets call Urban Events on 04-4456842.
A PEEK BEHIND THE SCENES DOUBLE WHAMMY If you don’t have your tickets yet, what are you waiting for? Katy Perry and Usher will perform live at the World Parachuting Championships Closing Ceremony on Saturday 8th December at Meydan Racecourse. Tickets are priced at Dhs 450 for Regular and Dhs 1,000 for Golden Circle and are available exclusively online at www.boxofficeme.com and in-store at Virgin Megastore in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For further information go to www.wpcconcert.ae, and to learn more about the World Parachuting Championships visit www.wpcuae.ae.
Ever wondered what a racehorse eats, how they sleep or how they are conditioned for Dubai’s multi-million dollar races? Get up close and personal with Meydan’s four-legged athletes on a behind-the-scenes stable tour. Stable Tour guests will be treated to a five-star buffet breakfast at Meydan’s Farriers restaurant before heading out to the stables for an hour-long tour. Meydan Stable Tours run every Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 8am to 11am from now until 20th March 2013. Tickets cost Dhs 250 for adults and Dhs 150 for children. Call 04-3813405 or email leisure@meydanhotels.com or stabletours@meydanhotels.com.
CREATIVE IDEAS If you are looking for unique gifts then visit the ARTE Markets on Friday 7th December at Festival Centre, Dubai Festival City and on Friday 14th December at Times Square Center. A treasure trove of unique products, all items on sale are homemade, handcrafted and hand painted locally and will make unique gifts for anyone. The market will mark ARTE’s second Food Festival that will celebrate the diversity of the cultures living in the UAE, and will offer local residents a chance to taste different foods of the world. In addition, Feline Friends will continue with their fundraising secondhand book sale. They offer an environmentally friendly (and budget friendly) option to stocking your library with wonderful books. All books at the sale are donations from the community and are in fair or good condition. Visit www.arte.ae. 20 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
? s a m t s i r h C r o f e r e H ELVES’TEA PARTY
On Saturday 15th December, treat the family to the Elves’ Tea Party and tree lighting ceremony at the ballroom at The Palace Downtown Dubai. Santa Claus will make an appearance to greet all the naughty and nice children during the tea party. Running from 3pm to 6pm, entrance is Dhs 150 per person and is free for children below six years. Call 04-4287806 or email dine@thepalace-dubai.com.
THE MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH
Saturday 8th December brings a great family day out with fun and games for the young and the young at heart at The Address Montgomerie Dubai. Children of all ages will have a blast with special guest Santa, while you can tuck into sumptuous shawarmas accompanied by soft beverages. Running from 3pm to 6pm, prices are Dhs 110 per child and Dhs 50 per adult. Call 04-3905600.
The Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach invites you to their Christmas tree lighting event in the hotel lobby on 6th December from 7pm to 9pm. Enjoy classic Christmas carols performed by the hotel choir, seasonal sweets and season-inspired beverage treats for all. In addition, the Falls Lobby lounge will be transformed into a spectacular Christmas winter wonderland with a Christmas market, complete with indulgent German and Swiss festive treats to share with loved ones from 5th to 31st December. For more details visit the Festive Desk in the hotel lobby or call 04-4498888.
DECK THE HALLS
AN ADVENT ADVENTURE
Join The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai (JBR) on Saturday 8th December from 5pm to 6pm to kick-start the holiday season with sparkling lights during the annual Christmas tree lighting at The Lobby Lounge. Enjoy their legendary afternoon tea while Jumeirah Music Centre (JMC) Children’s choir and the resident harpist serenade you with a medley of Christmas jingles and melodies. Afternoon Tea prices start from Dhs 62 per person. Call 04-3186150 or email dine.dubai@ ritzcarlton.com.
Do you believe in Santa Claus? If you do, join Centrepoint Theatre in DUCTAC, Mall of the Emirates from 6th to 9th December for a new fun-filled show Santa Claus and the Christmas Adventure takes place at Santa’s HQ in the North Pole. The Reindeer Sat-Nav is programmed and the toys are piled high on the sleigh, then... chaos strikes! Rudolph is missing and the Elves are misbehaving. Will Santa ever find Rudolph and deliver the presents to all the boys and girls? Through songs, stories and poems, the audiences are taken on a fast paced adventure, and to thank them for helping to save Christmas each child will receive a special present. Show timings are 11am/2pm/4pm/6.30pm and tickets are priced between Dhs 100 and Dhs 135. Call 04-3414777.
CARNIVAL ON THE LAWN
www.mydubaiconnection.com
Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 21
DINING out
dining out One of the most enjoyable aspects of being on holiday is dining out in one of the many restaurants that Dubai has to offer. The cosmopolitan mix of Dubai’s population means that the city offers a variety of restaurants to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
Fast Food
Costing around Dhs 4, perhaps the cheapest, healthiest and most delicious fast food available and served extensively from roadside shops is the shawarma, lamb or chicken cooked upright on a rotating spit and served in soft pitta bread with salad, pickles and hummous. To complement your shawarma, why not try one of the various fresh fruit juices such as mango or mixed fruit? Incidentally, if you are concerned about the hygiene aspect of eating from a roadside café, there is no need to worry, Dubai Municipality regularly check all restaurants and they are not slow to close down outlets that fail to adhere to their strict hygiene standards. Slightly more expensive at about Dhs 20, but still incredibly good value for money are some of the Indian, Keralan or Pakistani restaurants found mainly in Bur Dubai, Deira, Karama and Satwa. These serve excellent curry dishes such as butter chicken or rogon josh dished up with the obligatory mountain of biryani rice. Obviously these roadside restaurants are not licensed, however as in the shawarma outlets they serve superb freshfruit juices.
Restaurants
The fact that licensed dining means that many of the better restaurants are in hotels may seem slightly strange to visitors coming to Dubai. However you will soon get used to accessing your favourite restaurants via a hotel lobby, and in some circumstances, a lift. Some hotels will reserve seating space for their own guests and therefore it is always highly recommended that you pre-book a table at any restaurant that you intend visiting. Likewise, if you intend eating at the better quality restaurants it is advisable to be dressed in smart casual clothes tailored shorts don't always cut it in Dubai! Always remember that if you are staying at a hotel in Jumeirah, and planning to eat at a restaurant in Deira, to allow plenty of travelling time, probably 45 minutes to one hour as traffic can be heavy on Sheikh Zayed Road until 9pm. Despite the travelling time taxis from Jumeirah to Deira are inexpensive and you can probably expect to pay between Dhs 60 and Dhs 80. Most of the restaurants featured over the following pages have specific deals this month and you may wish to take advantage of one or more of these deals. Friday brunches are very popular in Dubai and, whilst they may appear expensive at first sight, when you consider that most include free-flowing alcoholic drinks you may come to the conclusion that they represent great value. Be aware that alcohol in general and wine especially can be quite expensive in Dubai and can significantly increase your bill. Don’t worry if you have been recommended to a restaurant not listed over the following pages. You will find extensive listings in the Green Pages at the back of Discover Dubai.
We
recommend..
recommends . . .
Grill with a twist
Michelin starred celebrity Chef Gary Rhodes’ award winning culinary grill with a twist - Rhodes Twenty10 at Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, has added a variety of delectable new dishes as part of its new menu. As well as the new dishes, signature dishes will maintain their rightful place on the menu. These include the Rhodes Twenty10 Burger and the ever popular Sticky toffee pudding. Call 04-3165550.
Gastronomic deals Emirates Grand Hotel rolls out sumptuous promotions at Panorama Restaurant and Turkish Shisha Lounge. Panorama Restaurant offers new set menus for special occasions or corporate meetings and events ranging from Dhs 65 to Dhs 175 per person. The Turkish Shisha Lounge presents a special burger meal deal, complemented with one round of shisha for only Dhs 69. Call 04-3230000 or visit www.emiratesgrandhotel.com.
Room with a view Kitchen 45, Embassy Dubai’s delectable eatery, perched at the top of Grosvenor House Dubai Tower Two, has recently revamped its menu, presenting new additions that pay homage to flavours from around the Mediterranean and French Provence, whilst maintaining some of existing Kitchen 45’s regular favourites. Call 04-3176000.
Have a chinwag Chinwaggery is the stimulating new hub of Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, where you can dine, drink and reflect. A beautiful open plan space that’s perfect for working, relaxing and partying long into the night. There is a great selection of drinks from the Quaffery and when you need some fuel to feed the party fire, they offer a great Scoffery menu with a deliciously rustic gastro twist. Visit www.moevenpick-hotels.com.
Arabian feast Imperium restaurant at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray serves a selection of authentic Emirati dishes while local chef, Musabbeh Al Kaabi, presents a live cooking display of traditional delicacies including Lamb Ouzi with Oriental Rice, Machboos Lamb and Thread Lamb with Dried Lemon. Both lunch and dinner at Imperium is a set price of Dhs 225 for adults with 50% for children below 12 years. Call04-4530444. www.mydubaiconnection.com
Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 23
DINING out
STREET EATS
TURKISH DELIGHT
India is famous for its street food and now Dubai can enjoy a variety of street snacks and specialities at the popular Indian restaurant, Gharana at Holiday Inn Dubai - Al Barsha. Saturdays will see a transformation to Gharana’s regular cuisine bringing a novel experience of the ‘Galliyas’ (Streets) of the four Gharanas of Hyderabad, Punjab, Jaipur and Lucknow in a speciality ‘Food Night’. The Street Food Buffet is priced at Dhs 95 per person and begins at 7pm every Saturday. Call 04-3234333 or email reservations@hialbarsha.com / restaurants@hialbarsha.com.
Famed for its exciting blend of traditional Turkish cuisine and international flavours, A La Turca at RixosThe Palm Dubai is a refreshing take on Friday brunch offering scrumptious dishes from the Eastern Anatolia region of Turkey as well as the Black Sea and Aegean coasts. Buffet brunch prices range from Dhs 195 (welcome drink and water), Dhs 225 (welcome drink, soft drinks, fresh juices and water), Dhs 295 (welcome drink, house wine and beers), with 50% discount for children between 10 and 14 years (under 10s dine free). Call 04-4575454.
AN INDIAN TWIST
AUTUMN MENU
Indego by Vineet, Grosvenor House Dubai’s contemporary Indian restaurant, headed up by Michelin starred Chef Vineet Bhatia, has launched the new Indego by Vineet ‘Lazy Brunch’ concept for the weekend. Following on from the restaurant’s exclusive modern Indian Thali set menu, available to enjoy throughout the week, weekend diners can enjoy a variety of unlimited dishes for just Dhs 350 (unlimited selected beverages) or Dhs 250 (soft drinks), as well as tea or coffee and homemade chocolates from 12.30pm onwards on Friday and Saturday. Call 04-3176000.
Diners at Michelin starred celebrity Chef Gary Rhodes’ award winning restaurant, Rhodes Mezzanine in Grosvenor House Dubai’s Tower One, can enjoy an array of charming dishes as part of the sophisticated eatery’s autumnal menu. Rhodes Mezzanine is open from 7pm to 11.30pm Monday to Saturday. Call 04-3176000.
THEME NIGHTS Enjoy themed dining at its best at Al Bustan Rotana Dubai. Enjoy Sunday Seafood Night at Choices for only Dhs 270 per person including unlimited selected beer, house wine and soft drinks. Alternatively, enjoy Teppanyaki Night at Benihana Restaurantevery Sunday for Dhs 199 net per person inclusive of unlimited selected beer, house wine and soft drinks. Call 04-282000. 24 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
TASTY TAPAS The word ‘tapas’ evokes images of relaxing, sun drenched afternoons socialising with family and friends. This is exactly what Boardwalk has introduced with a selection of different delicious tapas dishes, available from Sunday to Thursday between 4pm and 7pm. At this time, Boardwalk also offers a Happy Hour where you can enjoy a cool 25% discount off selected beverages. Call 04-2956000 or email creekdining@dubaigolf.com.
WATERFRONT VIEWS The Solis bistro at the Tiara Residence, Palm Jumeirah has recently launched two foodie focused packages. ‘BBQ Fridays’, from 12.30pm to 3pm for lunch and 7.30pm to 10pm for dinner, are the perfect way to enjoy the cooler weather. In addition, ‘Hooked on Thursdays’, weekly from 7.30pm to 10pm, is the new seafood night with a selection of the chef’s specials all grilled to perfection. BBQ Fridays are priced at Dhs 95 (food only) and Dhs 265 (unlimited select beverages). The Hooked on Thursday’s package is Dhs 125 (food only) and Dhs 265 (food and unlimited select house beverages). For both packages children under 12 years receive a 50% discount. Call 04-4329848 or email vaz@solisrestaurant.com. www.mydubaiconnection.com
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s a m t s i r h C lunches&dinner
DINING out
JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray offers a selection of opulent Ottomaninspired festive celebrations on Palm Jumeirah this December. At Voi enjoy a 5-course set menu on 24th or 25th December for Dhs 690.In addition, Imperium is offering a Christmas Day brunch for Dhs 325 (including soft drinks), Dhs 445 (including house beverages), and Dhs 599 (including bubbly); as well as a Christmas Day dinner for Dhs 525 (including soft beverages). Children aged from 4 to 12 years enjoy 50% off and kids below 4 years dine for free. Call 04-4530444.
THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI
Enjoy Christmas Eve at Bunkers for Dhs 175 (including soft beverages). Alternatively, Christmas Day brings brunch at Nineteen for Dhs 425 (including soft beverages) or Dhs 595 (including soft and selected house beverages), and a Yuletide feast at Links at The Academy for Dhs 395 (including soft beverages) or Dhs 525 (including soft and selected house beverages). In addition, the Boxing Day buffet at Bunkers is priced at Dhs 150 (including soft beverages). Call 04-3905600.
Enjoy Christmas Eve dinner or Christmas Day lunch at Dunes CafĂŠ, offering a succulent turkey carving station, seafood station and an abundance of festive desserts. Groups will be served an individual turkey carved at the table and kids will be entertained by Santa. Unlimited mulled wine is available, along with a musical performance. Prices are Dhs 400 (including house beverages and mulled wine) or Dhs 300 (excluding beverages), and groups of 12 people or more receive 10% discount or a whole turkey on their table. Call 04-4052703.
DUSIT THANI DUBAI International buffet restaurant, The Californian, will be offering a wide variety of sumptuous cuisines as well as traditional holiday treats to suit all palates. The Christmas Eve buffet is priced at Dhs 250 (soft drinks and chilled juices), Dhs 295 (house beverages) and Dhs 125 (children aged 6 to 12 years). In addition, Christmas Day lunch is priced at Dhs 185 (soft drinks and chilled juices), Dhs 225 (house beverages) and Dhs 92 (children aged 6 to 12 years). Call 04-3174515 or email dine.dtdu@dusit.com.
RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK On Christmas Eve the Grand Buffet at Boulvar is priced at Dhs 195 or Dhs 275 (with half a bottle of red or white wine). In addition, The China Club is also offering set menus for Dhs 185 and Dhs 240; the Minato dinner buffet is priced at Dhs 165; La ModaItalian set menu is Dhs 150; and Palm Grill is set to impress with a set menu for Dhs 250. In addition, a 2-hour cruise on the Al Mansour Dhow on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day is priced at Dhs 219 for adults and Dhs 99 for children aged 4 to 12 years.Christmas Day also brings Christmas brunch on the 2nd floor of the hotel, where 7 different outlets come together for just Dhs 199. Call 04-2057033. 26 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
THE PALACE DOWNTOWN DUBAI Usher in the festive season with the Christmas Eve dinner at Asado, The Palace Downtown Dubai for Dhs 320 (excluding beverages). In addition, Ewaan is hosting a Christmas Day brunch for Dhs 500 (including soft beverages) or Dhs 600 (including selected and premium beverages). Call 04-4287806 or email dine@ thepalace-dubai.com.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL JUMEIRAH BEACH Soak up the Christmas atmosphere at Talk Restaurant, Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach. The Christmas Eve dinner is priced at Dhs 199 (buffet and soft drinks) and Dhs 299 (buffet and full beverage package). Alternatively, the Christmas Day brunch is priced at Dhs 222 (buffet and soft drinks) and Dhs 333 (buffet and beverages including sparkling package). The Christmas Day evening buffet is just Dhs 199 (buffet and soft drinks) and Dhs 299 (buffet and full beverage package). Or you could opt for the Boxing Day BBQ on 26th for Dhs 150 (BBQ and soft drinks) and Dhs 250 (BBQ &andbeverage package). Each package offers a fun kids’ corner and a visit from Santa.Kids 12 years and under dine free on all three packages. Call 04-4498888.
RITZ CARLTON DUBAI
ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB
THE ADDRESS DUBAI MALL
Enjoy a Christmas Eve carvery buffet with Santa at Ranches Restaurant for Dhs 195 (including half a bottle of house beverage) and Dhs 95 per child (including soft beverages). Alternatively, the Christmas Day lunch buffet is Dhs 250 per adult and Dhs 125 per child (including unlimited soft beverages). The Boxing Day brunch is Dhs 150 per person (excluding beverages) and Dhs 75 per child (including soft beverages). These packages are free for children under 6 years. Call 04-3607935 or email restaurant@arabianranchesgolf.ae.
Join the Christmas Day BBQ brunch at Cabana for Dhs 225 (including soft drinks and juices) or Dhs 295 (including unlimited selected beverages). Alternatively, the Christmas Day Royal Brunch at Ember Grill & Lounge is priced at Dhs 285 (including soft drinks and juices) or Dhs 385 (including unlimited selected beverages and bubbly). Call 04-8883444 or email dine@theaddress.com.
Feast on a Christmas Eve 5-course dinner at Splendido for Dhs 700 (excluding beverages). Alternatively, enjoy a Christmas Day buffet brunch at Amaseena, where Santa will entertain with games, camel rides and face painting. Prices are Dhs 945 (including Laurent-Perrier Champagne, sparkling wines, house wines, beers and soft beverages), Dhs 695 (including free flow soft drinks, house wines, beers, and sparkling wines), Dhs 495 (including soft drinks), and Dhs 270 (children below 12 years). Call 04-3186150 or email dine. dubai@ritzcarlton.com.
DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel’s Christmas Day brunch at The Observatory is where diners can delight in magnificent 360º views of Dubai in an elegant setting from Dhs 650 per person including house beverages. Alternatively, every evening during the month of December, indulge in a festive 4-course set menu with a choice to dine in A.Z.U.R international restaurant overlooking the Marina or in The Observatory on the 52nd floor with its panoramic views. This is priced at Dhs 300 per adult and Dhs 150 per child aged 6 to 12 years old. Call 04-3194795 or 04-3194794. www.mydubaiconnection.com
Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 27
e v E s ’ r a e Y w e N DINING out
JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS
Vu’s Restaurant will be bringing in the New Year with a lavish 5-course spread (inclusive of water) combined with the latest beats from the DJ’s turn-table and electric violinist Haruka Horii. This is priced at Dhs 1,800 per adult (or 2,560 Sirius points) and is full price for children aged 12 years and above.Call 043198088 or email JETrestaurants@ jumeirah.com.
PARK HYATT DUBAI The Terrace Piazza, overlooking Dubai Creek, offers live entertainment and a lavish New Year’s Eve buffet for Dhs 1,395 (including free flowing premium wines, spirits and a bottle of Veuve Cliquot Champagne for every couple).Call 04- 3172222 or email restaurants. dubai@hyatt.com.
MÖVENPICK HOTEL & APARTMENTS BUR DUBAI
Fountain and Lobby are featuring a gala dinner buffet complemented with live performances from a UK band, belly dancer and DJ who will count you down into the New Year for Dhs 695 per person (including selected house beverages). Chutneys, the North Indian restaurant, will also host a set menu for Dhs 375 (including soft drinks and juices), Dhs 475 (including selected house beverages) and Dhs 575 (including premium beverages). Children between 7 and 12 years get 50% discount and kids below 6 years eat free. In addition, Somerset’s British Pub presents a set menu for Dhs 200 (food only). On New Year’s Day recover from the night before at Fountain restaurant with the Full Monty English breakfast, available from 11am to 3pm for Dhs 135 (including soft drinks) or Dhs 195 (including wine and beer). Call 04-3366000.
ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB The New Year’s Eve gala buffet dinner at Ranches Restaurant & Terrace is priced at Dhs 695 (including house beverages and live entertainment). In addition, the New Year’s Day brunch is priced at Dhs 150 (excluding beverages) and Dhs 75 per child (including soft beverages). Kids under 6 years dine free. Call 04-3607935 or email restaurant@ arabianranchesgolf.ae.
LE MERIDIEN MINA SEYAHI Join Dubai`s biggest festive party on the sand at Barasti from 1pm to 5pm on Thursday 13th December. Festive tunes, decorations, festive games and good old Barasti hospitality will see that your Christmas starts with a bang. Dress code is festive red and white and the price is Dhs 260 per person including a Christmas BBQ and house beverage package. Call 04-3181398or email Barasti.events@lemeridien.com.
28 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
JUMEIRAH ZABEEL SARAY The Crystal Tent gala dinner is set in a purpose built glass marquee offering a stunning backdrop for a memorable New Year’s Eve under the stars. Enjoy a sumptuous international buffet, world-class entertainment, a magnificent display of fireworks at midnight, as well as entry to the hotel’s exclusive after parties at C Club and Voda Bar. The price is Dhs 3,900 (including bubbly, grape and soft beverages), children between 4 and 12 years enjoy a 50% discount, and kids below 4 years dine for free. Call 04-4530444.
THE ADDRESS DUBAI MALL Mark the arrival of the New Year with a lavish international buffet at Diamond Ballroom. Each visitor will be given a complimentary glass of bubbly upon arrival, and can enjoy the all-night open lounge until 3am. Pay Dhs 800 for regular seats and Dhs 950 for VIP seats. Call 04-8883444 or email dine@theaddress. com.
THE PALACE DOWNTOWN DUBAI PULLMAN MALL OF THE EMIRATES DUBAI Enjoy a gala dinner at Sanabel, then party the night away with in house DJ, free flowing beverages and a midnight bubbly toast at the Vantage Bar. The New Year’s Eve package is priced at Dhs 800 per person and terms and conditions apply. Call 043772000 or email H7337@accor.com.
THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI Gather around the poolside at Aquaviva Terrace for a party guaranteed to set the mood for the New Year. The evening includes a lavish buffet, a live band and a firework display at the stroke of midnight for Dhs 795 (including soft and selected house beverages). Alternatively, book Nineteen for your own private event by emailing epope@theaddress.com. Spend the first day of the year with the Nineteen New Year’s Day brunch, priced at Dhs 345 (including soft beverages) or Dhs 415 (including soft and selected house beverages). Call 04-3905600. www.mydubaiconnection.com
Welcome 2013 with spectacular views of The Dubai Fountain at Thiptara, and enjoy a 4-course set dinner featuring the finest Thai delicacies for Dhs 850 (including soft beverages) or Dhs 990 (including selected beverages). Guests will receive a free glass of bubbly when the clock strikes 12. Call 04-4287806 or email dine@thepalace-dubai.com.
THE WESTIN The New Year’s Eve gala dinner at Serdaal Ballroom, The Westin features an international buffet, free flowing Champagne, house beverage, wine, beer and soft drinks and is priced at Dhs 1,950 for adults and Dhs 575 for kids (6 to 12 years). In addition, the Bubbalicious New Year’s Day brunch at Blue Orange, Hunters and Spice Emporium is priced at Dhs 590 (Bubbalicious), Dhs 490 (Sparklicious) and Dhs 350 (Delicious), while kids from 6 to 12 years pay just Dhs 190. Call 04-5117139 (ext 7139).
RADISSON BLU HOTEL, DUBAI DEIRA CREEK This New Year’s Eve experience a gala evening from around the globe with 11 restaurants, 3 bars and a dhow. The Grand Buffet is where you can enjoy 6 cuisines all together for only Dhs 550 (inclusive of free flow of soft beverages, fresh juices and mocktails), or Dhs 750 (with unlimited free flow of selected house beverages). In addition, The China Club welcomes 2013 with a traditional set menu for only Dhs 400 (food only); Sumibiya Japanese buffet is Dhs 249 (food only); Boulvar’s international buffet is Dhs 350 or Dhs 440 (inclusive of half a bottle of wine per person); and Al Mansour Dhow will be cruising the creek for Dhs 449 and Dhs 549 (inclusive of half a bottle of wine). Call 04-2057033, 7034, 7333, 7444. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 29
& entertainment NIGHTLIFE NIGHTLIFE DINING out&& entertainment entertainment
Nightlife
Holidays in Dubai do not end with the sun going down and there is an energetic and cosmopolitan feel about the many different nightspots that Dubai has to offer.
D
ubai’s nightlife is mainly centred around the hotels and can start rather late. People tend to eat at around 9pm and therefore the bars and nightclubs don’t get busy until after 11pm. Most clubs are open until 3am and with, what is in essence, a three-day weekend, a youthful population, (some) with money to burn, a large tourist population present most of the year and free drinks for ladies in many bars several nights of the week, there is usually an active social life to be found most nights. Although Dubai’s clubbing dress code is fairly casual, be sure that you gain entrance by wearing trousers, shoes and a collared shirt otherwise you may find yourself on the outside looking in! Although Dubai’s clubbing dress code is fairly casual, be sure that you gain entrance by wearing trousers, shoes and a collared shirt otherwise you may find yourself on the outside looking in! The age requirement to access licensed premises in Dubai is 21 years of age and it is rigidly enforced. It is always advisable to take some form of ID with a photo and date of birth such as a driving licence.
Ladies’ nights
In an attempt to promote the quieter nights of the week, normally Sundays and Tuesdays, certain pubs, bars and clubs offer drinks promotions to ladies to entice them inside, hoping, obviously that the men will follow closely behind and spend their hardearned cash.
Bars, wine bars and pubs
There are numerous excellent licensed premises located throughout Dubai varying from British pubstyle bars to luxuriously decorated and sophisticated venues featuring the most spectacular views. The list of bars below will give you an insight into the social scene of Dubai, but it is not by any means exhaustive. 30 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
At.mosphere Lounge: You will need a head for heights for this one! Perched on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa there are incredible views across the city and of the performing fountains a mere 2,000 feet below. There is a DJ playing chilled lounge tunes and the dress code is smart elegant, including long sleeved shirts for men. Aussie Legends: On the ground floor of Rydges Plaza in Satwa, this friendly bar has a solid reputation as a fun drinking venue and sportwatching bar. Aussie Legends comes complete with large screen TV’s, pool tables and good food. Bahri Bar: Situated within Mina A’ Salam and overlooking the sea gently winding through the Madinat Jumeirah with the imposing Burj Al Arab hotel seemingly close enough to touch. The sumptuously decorated Bahri Bar offers both inside seating around a large oval bar or in comfortable armchairs; alternatively there is al fresco seating for 48 customers on the terrace ideal during the cooler months. Bar 44: Chic and ultra-glamorous cocktail bar on the top floor of the Grosvenor House hotel. The bar has magnificent views directly over Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah for sipping your favourite tipple. Barasti Bar: Situated at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Barasti is, quite simply, the most popular beach bar in Dubai. Barasti has bars on three levels and a restaurant with timber decking extending out over the beach with superb views over The Palm Jumeirah and the
At.mosphere Lounge
Arabian Gulf. Barasti is busy pretty much every night during the cooler months but especially so on Thursday and Friday nights. BarZar: Spread over two levels, BarZar is located in the Madinat Jumeirah and attracts a large and regular following especially at the weekends. There is a choice of taking your favourite tipple indoors or outside on the spacious terrace overlooking the passing abras. Boston Bar: Loosely based on the bar in the American sitcom, Cheers, the Boston Bar in Jumeira Rotana hotel, Satwa, is a favourite haunt for expats and provides great food combined with reasonable drink prices. Ladies’ night is on Tuesdays and Thursdays when ladies each receive 4 free drinks. Buddha Bar: Stylish restaurant, bar, nightclub and definitely one of Dubai’s favourite places both to see and be seen is located on the ground floor of the Grosvenor House Hotel, Al Sufouh. Buddah Bar is busy every day of the week and reservations for dining are essential. Dhow and Anchor: Pub atmosphere on the ground floor of the Jumeirah Beach hotel and popular with British tourists for that home away from home feeling. There is an outdoor split-level decking restaurant with views over the poolside and the fish and chips come highly recommended. Fibber Magee's: A cosy but lively bar next to, and at the rear of, Crowne Plaza hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road. There is an excellent choice of draught beers and lagers and the food is amazing. Fibbers is especially good for sport watching, especially Chelsea football matches.
Karma Kafé
extremely popular on Thursday and Friday nights and it is best to arrive early and definitely before 11pm to avoid the inevitable queue.
Karma Kafé: Raymond Visan, the developer of the global brand Buddha Bar , has now opened his second Dubai nightspot with Karma Kafé at Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Burj Dubai. The restaurant and bar serve up superb Asian-fusion The Irish Village: Nestling in the shadow of the cuisine and cocktails from 10am to 2am every day. tennis stadium and just off Al Garhoud Road, Deira, The outdoor deck gives wonderful views over Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. boasting a quaint Irish-style pub indoors and a huge al fresco area populated with trestle tables and benches. The Irish Village retains its status as one of Koubba: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the gardens, beach, the Arabian Gulf and Madinat Dubai’s favourite watering holes. Jumeirah from Koubba rooftop bar. There is outdoor seating for 120 which makes it extremely Jambase: Tucked away within the Madinat Jumeirah, this late-night restaurant and bar features popular during the cooler months and the ambience is one of unadulterated luxury. a live jazz band later in the evening. Jambase is www.mydubaiconnection.com
Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 31
NIGHTLIFE & entertainment cocktails and snacks whilst enjoying the panoramic views over Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. There is Happy Hour every night - Saturday to Tuesday from 6pm to 10pm and Wednesday to Friday 6pm to 8pm.
360°
Left Bank: Left Bank: Set by the stunning waterfront of the Madinat near several promenade restaurants, Left Bank has recently been renovated and is an ideal meeting place. By night the bar evolves into a vibrant lounge environment and is a pleasant place to sit outside during the cooler months and people watch whilst enjoying a drink or two. Neo's: Competing at a high level (literally) to be named Dubai's best cocktail lounge, Neo's is on the 63rd floor of the Address Hotel Downtown Burj Khalifa. Neo's has fabulous views of Burj Khalifa and the amazing Dubai Fountain which springs into life every 30 minutes. Rooftop Bar: Arabic-themed rooftop bar in the One&Only Royal Mirage, bedecked with large comfortable seating areas and Persian carpets. Sip your favourite cocktail whilst enjoying the views of the surrounding hotel grounds and the sun setting into the Gulf. Seville’s: Popular Spanish tapas bar and restaurant located in Wafi City. The highlight for most is the large outdoor terrace, ideal for sipping a Sangria and listening to a Spanish guitarist. Sho Cho’s: Superb setting during the cooler months as the bar is on wooden decking overlooking the surf gently breaking onto the beach at Dubai Marine Beach Resort. Enjoy the cool breeze as you sway in time with the background music. Dress to impress. The Observatory: Set on the 52nd floor of the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, the Observatory serves up more than signature dishes and cocktails; it’s the ultimate night out. Savour 32 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
The Observatory: Set on the 52nd floor of the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, the Observatory serves up more than signature dishes and cocktails; it’s the ultimate night out. Savour cocktails and snacks whilst enjoying the panoramic views over Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. There is Happy Hour every night - Saturday to Tuesday from 6pm to 10pm and Wednesday to Friday 6pm to 8pm. 360º: Fabulous al fresco setting at the end of the jetty leading out into the Gulf from the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. A favourite place for a 'Sundowner' with great views of the coastline and the nearby Burj Al Arab hotel with chilled out sounds complementing the relaxed atmosphere. Uptown: Sit outside on the terrace of the 24th floor of the Jumeirah Beach hotel sipping a cocktail for what is the most spectacular view of the coastline, The Burj Khalifa and the nearby Burj Al Arab hotel. Vista Lounge: A cocktail and lounge bar situated at the InterContinental, Dubai Festival City. As the name suggests there is a beautiful view over Dubai Creek and the ever-changing city skyline; evening entertainment is provided with a pianist playing popular music. Vu’s Bar: You’ll need a head for heights if you head to Vu’s Bar on the 51st floor of Emirates Towers. There are amazing sights over the city as you sit high up on your perch enjoying your drink whilst looking down on almost everyone else in Dubai. Waxy O’Connor’s: Located in the Ascot hotel, Bur Dubai; there always seems to be a party atmosphere with drinks promotions and televised sporting events and the pub remains a favourite for expats, sports lovers and tourists alike. Friday Brunch is always a lively affair with an Irish breakfast, carvery lunch and five drinks all for Dhs 85 - who says Dubai is expensive!
Nightclubs
Boudoir: Located in Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa, Boudoir is a sophisticated and opulent nightclub and with free Champagne served to ladies every Tuesday and Friday nights and free cocktails most other nights, it’s little wonder that Boudoir is popular. Cavalli Club: Offering the finest selection of ingredients from all over the world, carefully selected and prepared by their chefs. Experience their signature dishes whilst dining in the luxurious, triple-levelled restaurant. Cavalli Club, The Fairmont Hotel, where food and fashion meet in one single concept. Chi@The Lodge: Situated within Al Nasr Leisureland, Chi@The Lodge is a veteran of the Dubai club scene and has a terrific atmosphere especially on Thursday nights. I wonder if it has anything to do with its nine bars, cheap drinks and large open air dance floors? Cirque du Soir: Roll up, roll up to the circus at the Fairmont hotel! Theatrical and seductive, Cirque du Soir features trapeze artistes, jugglers, a unicyclist, contortionists, tattooed dancers, fire eaters, mixologists and, oh yes, great house and R&B music. Cirque could well fashion a reputation to be Dubai's best club and is open on Tuesdays to Fridays from 10pm until 3am. Arrive early or else join a long queue.
Rare: Rare is located in the Media Rotana hotel, Al Barsha. With Baroque inspired interior and a contemporary Renaissance feel, Rare offers a varied food and beverage menu, as well as trendsetting music from Dubai’s top DJs and live jazz on Wednesdays. Rock Bottom Café: A stylish American themed diner at the Regent Palace Hotel Bur Dubai, which is open until 3am every night. After 10pm the night begins to unfold offering party-goers entertainment provided by a DJ and a live band. Trilogy: Featuring three levels of entertainment including a great rooftop terrace, Trilogy is certainly one of Dubai’s finest nightspots. With a line-up of top DJ’s spinning cutting-edge music, Trilogy hosts some of the finest electronic music acts in the world. Trilogy is situated at the entrance to Souk Madinat Jumeirah and is open from Monday to Saturday. Zinc: Zinc at the Crowne Plaza is open seven nights a week until 3am. Resident DJ Greg Stainer pumps up the volume and there are some great drinks promotions including daily Happy Hours from 10pm ‘til 11pm. I would advise you to arrive early to avoid the normal lengthy queues. Call 800-CROWNE (276963).
Mahiki: One of the world’s most famous nightspots and the ultimate venue for cocktail lovers opened during December 2011 and is now fully open to the public everyday from 6pm to 3am. Situated at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel make the most of Mahiki’s reduced ‘Sunset’ cocktail menu every day between 6pm and 9pm. N'Dulge: Situated within the Atlantis hotel Palm Jumierah, N'Dulge is host to three dance areas as well as stages where live dance performances take place from 11pm. To add to the entertainment, N'Dulge boasts Dubai’s most advanced FX lighting show from 10pm on weekends. There is also a large outdoor terrace area, perfect for chilling out during the cooler months. www.mydubaiconnection.com
Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 33 Mahiki
SIGHTS & attractions
Discover
Central Souq
Sharjah Whether you are new to the UAE, or have not been to Sharjah for many years, it is certainly time to pay a visit to the Emirate that has something to offer every member of the family.
A
lthough Sharjah city is well known, the Emirate also has enclaves on the east coast, namely Dibba, Al Hisn, KhorFakkan and Kalba, along with the islands of Abu Mousa and Sir Abu Nu’air. Both Dibba and KhorFakkan are well known retreats for diving weekends, due to their clear azure waters and stunning natural environment. Today, one of the most famous landmarks in Sharjah is The Central Market, or the Blue Souk as it is more commonly known. The covered souk offers 600 bijou shops but, while these offer many unique items, the architecture alone entices thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, Sharjah provides visitors with over 15 museums that include museums on calligraphy, Islamic civilisation, heritage, maritime, contemporary Arab art, archaeology, classic cars, science, a discovery centre, an aquarium and much more. Sharjah Aquarium offers an abundant and diverse selection of the UAE’s sea creatures. See the bold and the beautiful, the elegant and very timid of species from not just above the water, but from underneath as well. This really is worth a visit. The Arabian Wildlife Centre is the only zoo in the country that exhibits animals that are both current and extinct in the Arabian Peninsula. 34 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
Museum of Islamic Civilisation
While the Wildlife Centre is definitely worth a visit to see the indigenous animals alone, children will adore the children’s farm where they can feed the animals. Meanwhile the adjoining natural history museum, which is complete with fossils and dinosaurs, will appeal to everyone. With its ideal waterfront setting in the heart of Sharjah, Qanat Al Qasba is the perfect place to head for a bite to eat. Offering many restaurants varying from Lebanese to Thai cuisine, you can relax and observe Sharjah’s most famous ride. The ‘Eye of the Emirates’ is Sharjah’s very own ‘London Eye’ which provides amazing views of the picturesque corniche and neighbouring Dubai. Now that the weather is perfect, no visit to Sharjah would be complete without spending a few hours at Sharjah National Park. This is the largest park in the Emirate, spread out over 630,000 square metres and provides a duck pond, dedicated areas for cycling and rollerblading, play areas, and even a miniature city of Sharjah.
SIGHTS & attractions
A wind tower from the Bastakiya district
Sights & Attractions Dubai’s rich history coupled with the more recent architecture provide superb sightseeing opportunities for everyone. Our sightseeing guide will put you on the right track.
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House
Built in 1896 from coral covered in lime and sand and situated on Dubai Creek next to Heritage and Diving Villages is one of the most popular and best known sights in Dubai, the completely restored and renovated Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House. This was the house of the grandfather of the current ruler and has now been turned into a museum with photographs depicting the history of Dubai and its swift recent rise to prominence. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House opens daily from 7.30am to 9pm, and 3.30pm to 8pm on Friday. Telephone 04-3937139.
Heritage and Diving Villages
Heritage Village incorporates a small museum displaying ancient artifacts from several archaeological sites dating as far back as 550BC. The Village also displays and sells traditional crafts, pottery, woven goods and Bedouin jewellery. There is a small souq (market) where the visitor may have coffee and traditional Arabic bread, dosa. There are also remains dating from the 6th century 36 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
which were found at one of the most significant sites in the UAE, the Jumeirah archaeological site. The Diving Village displays historical features on what was once the major industry of Dubai, pearl diving.
Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum
The main attraction in the district of Bur Dubai is Al Fahidi Fort which incorporates Dubai Museum. The fort, built in the late 18th Century has been, in the past, a seat of government, the ruler’s main residence, a military barracks and prison and now provides the starting point for a walking tour of the ancient Bastakiya district. The restored fort itself now provides a fascinating insight into days of old, with many interesting archaeological finds displayed in cavernous underground rooms including spears, armour, khanjar knives and cannons, many of which are inscribed with the maker’s name. Al Fahidi Fort is open daily from 8.30am to 8.30pm. Telephone 04-353 1862.
Jumeirah Mosque
Situated on Jumeirah Beach Road, the enchanting Jumeirah Mosque with its huge central dome is the best known mosque in Dubai and is the only place of worship that non-muslims are allowed to enter. There is an organised tour of the mosque every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am and the tour may be booked by calling the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding on 04-353 6666. The entrance fee is Dhs 10. Please remember that Jumeirah Mosque is a place of worship and you will be expected to cover shoulders, arms and legs whilst inside the building.
The enchanting Jumeirah Mosque
Bayt Al Wakeel Maritime Museum and Burj Nahar
Situated near the abra (water taxi) station at Dubai Creek, the restored Bayt Al Wakeel museum is Dubai’s first office building which was built in 1934. The building has been completely restored and is now a popular museum depicting Dubai’s once-traditional fishing and maritime history and culture. On the opposite side of Dubai Creek the tourist can find Burj Nahar, one of three watchtowers which were used to guard Dubai. Set amongst beautiful gardens, Burj Nahar is a fine example of an old watchtower and is a wonderful photo opportunity.
Many original buildings in the Bastakiya
Grand Mosque
Built in the 1990’s the multidomed Grand Mosque is near the Ruler’s Court. The mosque has sand coloured walls, wooden shutters and stained glass windows and also features Dubai’s tallest minaret. Unlike the Jumeirah Mosque it should be noted that non-muslims are not allowed inside the mosque. www.mydubaiconnection.com
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SIGHTS & attractions
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Dubai Creek and abra rides
Undoubtedly the best way to see the many amazing and impressive buildings that have sprung up along Dubai Creek is from the waterway itself. Bustling abra stations provide workers and tourists alike with quick and efficient travel; the cost of a single crossing of the Creek is Dhs 1. Incidentally, the work force commute on a regular basis from one side of the Creek to the other and there are in excess of 17,500 crossings per day. The abras themselves are small barges which used to be rowing boats but are now powered by diesel engines. They will seat about 20 people per crossing, but if you are wearing expensive or light coloured clothing I would suggest that you remain standing for the trip as the bench-type seats can get a little grubby. Abras can also be hired for private trips along the Creek and if you negotiate well with the boat captains you should not have to pay more than Dhs 70.
Gold Souk
With annual imports of over 500 tonnes and the gold business worth in excess of Dhs 25 billion per year it is little wonder that Dubai is known as the City of Gold. There are over 800 jewellery shops in Dubai, both in shopping malls and souks, and gold is offered in 18, 21, 22 and 24 carat and sold at the prevailing daily rate with a relatively small charge being made for craftsmanship. There are low import duties, and this, allied with the fact that gold is sold in high volume therefore allowing lower margins, ensures that Dubai is probably the cheapest city in the world to buy gold jewellery. Barry Canham, deputy CEO at INTL Commodities told Discover Dubai, 'In 1999 there was around $500 million worth of gold in the Gold Souk, today, it is more like $4.5 billion. The vast majority of tourists that come to Dubai visit the Gold Souk. The fact that there are no taxes, the competitive nature of the market and that Dubai government promotes it, means there isn’t a better place www.mydubaiconnection.com
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SIGHTS & attractions
Abra ride
in the world to buy gold jewellery. If you buy a piece of gold jewellery in Dubai and take it back to the UK, for example, you would need to insure it for two or three times the Dubai buying price - that’s how much more expensive gold is by comparison.' The Gold Souk is in Baniyas Street on the north side of Dubai Creek in Deira the old part of town, and even if you are not in the market to buy some gold it is worth visiting, especially in the evening, just to wonder at the glittering array of merchandise. Expect to pay less than, or a similar price, for 18 carat gold than you would normally expect to pay for 9 carat gold anywhere else, but do remember to be prepared to barter. There is 40 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
plenty of choice and you don’t have to buy from the first shop you go in to!
Spice Souk
Again situated on the north side of Dubai Creek and close to the gold souq is Deira Old Souk which is a pleasant place to pass an evening wandering around. The souk has a breathtaking selection of spices such as ginger, chillies, cardamom and frankincense all displayed in huge sacks which are bursting at the seams and the fragrances tend to work up an appetite. As with the Gold Souk, the best time of day to go is the evening when the souks are busier.
SIGHTS & attractions
Desert safaris
This is the real ‘must do’ for anyone coming to Dubai for a holiday and you will be surprised how beautiful and serene the desert can seem to the uninitiated. There are now numerous companies offering an evening desert safari and you may expect to be collected from your hotel or apartment by your own driver in a clean and spacious 4X4 - normally a Toyota Land Cruiser or GMC Yukon. You will then be driven to an area about an hour from Dubai called Big Red, stopping en route to deflate the cars tyres. There then follows some serious ‘dune bashing’ over some enormous deep red and yellow sand dunes - think rollercoaster with bumps thrown in for good measure! Later you will stop at a camel farm and after a short stop to stretch your legs you will be whisked off again, out into the solitude and natural beauty of the desert for some sand boarding, whizzing down steep dunes on a ski board. This is a fun pastime and
Hot air ballooning
The weather is usually perfect to see and take photographs of the desert, gazelles, mountains and bedouin villages from the air, however, be prepared for a very early start as the best time of day for ballooning is at the crack of dawn. Balloon Adventures collect their clients and drive them to the launch site by air-conditioned vehicles. After light refreshments you will start the flight which lasts for about an hour and after your flight you will be presented with a personalised certificate, signed by your pilot, before being driven back to your hotel. There is a minimum age requirement of 5 years and please allow about five hours from being 42 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
good for the young or very fit but don’t forget what goes downhill has to come up again and it’s hard work walking up sand dunes, especially if it’s a hot or humid day. There are plenty of breathtaking photo opportunities and what better place to take a souvenir photograph of the sunset than in the solitude of the desert, with deep red and golden dunes as a backdrop and a slight wind thrown in constantly changing the surrounding landscape. As night falls clients are taken to a Bedouin camp where there are opportunities to ride camels or dune buggies, dress up in a dishdasha or abaya for a photo opportunity or try smoking some hubbly bubbly or shisha. The barbequed food supplied is plentiful and surprisingly good, and after the meal a belly dancer provides entertainment whilst the clients enjoy a drink or Arabic coffee before leaving, normally at about 9pm, for the return journey to your hotel or apartment. The Bedouin camps are licensed to sell alcohol, except during the holy month of Ramadan. The Desert Safari tour is great fun, however it may not be suitable for very young children who may get scared. It is also not recommended for the elderly or infirm as passengers tend to get thrown about quite a lot. Please see the pink pages section at the back of this magazine which feature discount vouchers supplied by most of our advertisers. collected to returning to your hotel. Remember to dress sensibly in a warm top, comfortable shoes or trainers, hat and sunglasses - and don't forget your camera! This service does not operate between June and September and Balloon Adventures is priced at Dhs 995 per person. Call Balloon Adventures Dubai 04-285 4949.
Dubai Dolphinarium
Dubai Dolphinarium is centrally located in the heart of Dubai Creek Park and is a superb facility; adults and children alike are guaranteed to thoroughly enjoy the show. The Dolphinarium houses five trained bottlenose dolphins and four northern fur seals and is one of the most loved attractions and well-recognised amusement venues for the whole family. The pool area is fully airconditioned providing a comfortable environment for patrons. The seats are cinema quality with a soft base featuring chair backs and armrests, and the VIP section has red cloth seats which are situated at the centre of the pool arena giving the best view of the show. There is a surround sound system with lasers and spotlights to enhance your experience and many fun programmes and exciting interaction with the mammals. With a knowledgeable and versatile team of instructors, Dubai Dolphinarium provides
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an unforgettable experience with the world’s most loved animals. There is also a restaurant and a gift shop on site. Tickets are priced as follows; VIP seating Dhs 120 for adults and Dhs 80 for children. Standard seating is priced at Dhs 100 for adults and Dhs 50 for children. Discover Dubai readers receive a discount of 25% on entry prices upon presenting the voucher supplied in the pink pages section at the back of this magazine. Telephone 04-336 9773 for further information and show timings.
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SIGHTS & attractions
Wild Wadi
Wild Wadi is a water theme park covering 12 acres and featuring 23 fun-filled rides. The park is one of Dubai's foremost tourist attractions and it pays to arrive early to reserve sun loungers in the best positions with views of the Burj Al Arab hotel. Thrill seekers are rushed up the rides by high powered water jets whilst sitting on large rubber rings. Rings are available for either single or double use, which is handy if you have smaller children or you just cannot bear to be apart. When you reach the top of the rides, slide down the flumes for a gentle entry into the temperature-controlled water. Wild Wadi is a great day out for all the family, is meticulously maintained, safe for all and patrolled by numerous well-trained lifeguards who are present on all rides. Upon entry the guest is supplied with a waterproof 'wristwatch' which stores electronic credits so that towels, lockers, food and refreshments can be paid for electronically without the need to carry cash around with you. Prices range from Dhs 175 for children under 1.1 metres in height to Dhs 220 for adults and includes the use of sun loungers and rubber rings. Any credit left over is refunded as you exit the water park. Wild Wadi is open from 10am to 6pm during December 2012. Discover Dubai readers receive a discount of Dhs 30 per person. Simply present the voucher supplied in the pink pages section at the back of this magazine. For further information call 04-348 4444. 44 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
Dreamland Aqua Park
Dreamland Aqua Park, the largest water park in the UAE is located on the scenic coastline of Umm Al Quwain, about 40 minutes drive from Dubai. The 250,000 square metre expanse of lush, green, landscaped gardens makes Dreamland the perfect place for a holiday escape. Catch the action on over 30 thrilling rides, slides and attractions or push the snooze button on a sun bed and take advantage of the two shaded areas, Palm Path and Peak Park. Dreamland also has overnight waterside camping facilities in either tents or cabanas, allowing 36-hour access to the water park. Plenty of sporting activities await you such as basketball, volleyball and tennis. Food is not a restraint at Dreamland as its specialty restaurants include Arabic, Indian and international cuisine in addition to Snack Attack, for a quick bite or for indulging in a choice of Italian pizzas. Dreamland Aqua Park has a capacity of 5,000 visitors and is open from 10am until 6pm from September until December 2012. Ticket prices are Dhs 135 per adult and Dhs 85 for children below 1.2 metres and adults over the age of 65. Infants under 2 years and those with special needs are free of charge. Discover Dubai readers receive a discount of Dhs 100 per couple by presenting the voucher supplied in the pink pages section at the back of this magazine. For further information call 06-768 1888 or access www.dreamlanduae.com.
Burj Khalifa - The world's tallest tower The world's tallest tower, developed by Emaar Properties, was unveiled in a crescendo of fireworks, lasers and fountain displays in February 2010. The official height of the tower, unveiled as 'Burj Khalifa', was announced as 828 metres (2,716.5 ft). Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world according to the three main criteria of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH). The CTBUH ranks the world’s tallest buildings based on ‘Height to Architectural Top,’ ‘Height to Highest Occupied Floor’ and ‘Height to Tip.’ At 828 metres (2,716.5ft), Burj Khalifa is 320 metres taller than Taipei 101, which at 508 metres (1,667 ft) had held the record for the world’s tallest building since 2004, the year the project was announced. Burj Khalifa achieved the distinction of being the world's tallest structure – surpassing the KVLY-TV mast (628.8 metres; 2,063 ft) in North Dakota, USA – 1,325 days after excavation work started in January 2004. The tower also beats the record of CN Tower, which at 553.33 metres (1,815.5 ft) had been the world’s tallest freestanding structure on land since 1976. Other world records for Burj Khalifa include the highest occupied floor in the world, at over 550 metres (1,800 ft); the highest outdoor observation deck in the world – At the Top on Level 124; and the tallest service elevator, which travels to a height of 504 metres. Burj Khalifa employed the latest
advances in wind engineering, structural engineering, and systems, construction materials and methods. All design considerations took into account the 12,000 people who will live and work in the tower. With a total built-up area of about 6 million sq ft, Burj Khalifa features nearly 2 million sq ft of residential space and over 300,000 sq ft of prime office space, in addition to the area occupied by the Armani Hotel Dubai and the Armani Residences. The tower also features clubs, health and fitness facilities, gourmet restaurants and the 124th floor observation deck, 'At the Top.' Tickets to access 'At the Top' are time stamped at 30-minute intervals, on specific days, in order to carefully manage the daily rush of sightseers. The introductory time-stamped ticket price is Dhs 100 for adults, Dhs 75 for children up to 12 years and free for children under 3 years. For those who just cannot wait, immediate entry is Dhs 400 per person. The entrance to the 'At the Top' experience is at The Dubai Mall’s Lower Ground level and the ascent to the 124th floor is by a double-deck elevator, each deck carrying up to 14 people. In less than a minute, the elevator reaches the observation deck, the world’s only public observatory at this height with an outdoor terrace. High windows circle the entire viewing platform, and, for Dhs 10, visitors can scan the horizon and the distant streets below through computerised viewfinders, which also have pre-programmed day and nighttime vistas of the city and surrounding region. Visitors can also buy official merchandise from the 'At the Top' retail boutique.
SPORTS & activities
Abu Dhabi racecar and the rocket-force G’s that go with it. Strap yourself into a custom Ferrari style seat as you’re launched 62 metres into the sky, enjoy the eagle-eye-view from the highest point on Yas Island, before plummeting back to earth.
F
errari World Abu Dhabi features more than 20 rides and attractions, from the world’s fastest roller coaster to advanced racing simulators, driving and scenic experiences. Families, children, thrill seekers and racing fans can all enjoy an unforgettable experience at this brand new theme park. Ferrari World has rides for all the family but the main adult attractions are listed below. The thrill of Rosso – the need for speed! Strap yourself into the F1 cockpit and hold onto your soul as you blast away on the fastest roller coaster on the planet. You will accelerate up to 240kms per hour in less than 5 seconds and feel what 4.8G's feels like, scream over the track and soar 52 metres into the sky before flying across the finish line, with an adrenaline kick worthy of the Grand Prix. The drag race is on – Fiorano GT Challenge Challenge your friends, jump into a Ferrari F430 Spider and may the best team win. Feel the thrill and G force of a real drag race as you blast away from the starting line on twisting parallel tracks. As you reach speeds up to 95kms per hour, watch out for the hairpin turns then tear ahead through the straights. as you outmaneuver and pass the other GT coaster cars.he height of acceleration – G-Force! Bring the whole family, or at least those brave enough to feel the acceleration rush of a F1
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Racing on the edge – Scuderia Challenge Experience the ultimate state-of-the-art racing simulator. If you have ever dreamed of challenging the professionals behind the wheel, this is your chance to show what you’re really made of. Race a variety of Ferraris solo or with a group on the virtual Yas Marina Circuit. Similar to the simulators used by the Scuderia drivers in training, Scuderia Challenge offers a level of realism far beyond an arcade game, with a full body immersion into the racing experience. There is an extra charge of Dhs 75 to experience the thrill of driving the two state-of-the-art simulators used by F1 drivers. All simulators run on a timed ticketing system and tickets should be collected in advance at the attraction. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is located on Yas Island and is about 50 minutes from Dubai Marina or 90 minutes from Dubai International Airport. The park is open everyday, from 11am o 8pm, but is closed on Mondays. Tickets can be purchased at the park and are based on height with General Admission tickets priced at Dhs 225 for guests taller than 1.5m and General Admission Junior tickets priced at Dhs 165 for guests under 1.5m. Premium Admission tickets giving unlimited access to all attractions through the Fast Track lane are also available and priced at Dhs 495 for General Admission and Dhs 390 for General Admission Junior tickets. Children under the age of 3 years are admitted free of charge. For further information access www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com.
SPORTS & activities
Golf
Dubai is rapidly becoming one of the more popular destinations for dedicated golfing enthusiasts and with several other courses in the design, planning and development stages, and with guaranteed weather, Dubai can only go from strength to strength.
Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai
Located within Dubai Festival City, adjacent to the banks of Dubai Creek and only five minutes from Dubai International Airport, Al Badia Golf Club combines exceptional golf with a breathtaking retreat. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, it is a 7,303 yard, par 72 course with numerous water features and incorporates 11 lakes and a number of smaller water features. Green fees for visitors playing 18 holes, including a shared cart with GPS, access to the driving range and range balls are Dhs 595 during the week and Dhs 875 at the weekend. Golf clubs are available for hire at a cost of Dhs 175. For tee reservations call 04-601 0101.
Arabian Ranches Golf Club
Located at Arabian Ranches and off the Emirates Ring Road, Al Barsha, Arabian Ranches Golf Club was designed by Ian Baker-Finch Signature Courses in association with Nicklaus Design. This challenging par 72 course uses a natural desert terrain with little landscaping. All standards of golfer will appreciate the GPS yardage service available on every golf cart. 48 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
The golf course houses the Golf Academy which hosts a practice facility with swing rooms that open onto the driving range, short game area, putting green and 3 hole pitch and putt practice area. The clubhouse hosts the golf professional’s shop, Grand Lobby area, and the Baker-Finch function room is complemented by a terrace and the Birkdale Bar. Within the clubhouse are 11 luxurious guest rooms with spectacular views overlooking either the golf course or the lake. Ranches restaurant and bar hosts a large terrace with panoramic scenic views over the 9th and 18th holes, a great place to meet and try the international menu, which also includes a superb Friday brunch. Green fees for visitors to the UAE are Dhs 555 from Sunday to Thursday and Dhs 660 at the weekend (Friday and Saturday). Range balls and carts are included in the price. For tee reservations call 04-366 3000.
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club
Located in Al Garhoud the uniquely designed club house is easily distinguishable sitting on the banks of Dubai Creek. The course hosted the European PGA Tour Desert Classic event in 1999 and 2000 and was completely re-designed by Thomas Bjorn in 2005.
The course is an 18-hole, par 71 course and has numerous holes where water comes into play. There is also a floodlit, 9-hole, par 3 course, again complete with water features. Green fees for visitors to the UAE are Dhs 595 during the week, rising to Dhs 695 at weekends. Prices include a shared cart complete with GPS and driving range balls. Golf clubs are available for hire at a cost of Dhs 195 for 18 holes and Dhs 110 for 9 holes. For tee reservations call 04-295 6000.
Emirates Golf Club
The Emirates Golf Club is the best known golf club in Dubai and the Majlis course is the traditional host of the European PGA Tour Event, The Dubai Desert Classic. The Majlis Course has been presented with numerous accolades over its 22 year history, the most recent of which was its 2010 ranking by Golf World magazine as one of the 'Top 100 Golf Courses in the World.' The course was built in 1988 and now has two full 18 hole courses. The Majlis is a 7,211 yard par 72 course and the Faldo is a par 73 course playing 7,328 yards from the back tees and is now completely floodlit allowing play until late evening. Green fees to play The Majlis course during October are Dhs 795 at all times whilst The Faldo is priced at Dhs 595 at off-peak times and Dhs 695 during weekends and public holidays. Floodlit golf is priced at Dhs 425 after 5pm on The Faldo course. Prices include the use of range balls and a cart. Club hire is available at a charge of Dhs 195 for 18 holes and Dhs 110 for 9 holes. For tee reservations call 04-380 2222.
Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa
Part of the Jebel Ali self-contained resort, about 30 minutes drive from downtown Dubai and 20 minutes from Dubai Marina. The course is a 9-hole, par 36 course which may be played twice from different tee boxes. The views are impressive with the Arabian Gulf and the impressive Jebel Ali Hotel as a backdrop and peacocks roam freely around the course. Green fees for visitors to the UAE based on 18 holes play are Dhs 300 from Sunday to Thursday, increasing to Dhs 395 at the weekend. Carts are included in the above prices and golf clubs may www.mydubaiconnection.com
be hired at a cost of Dhs 65 for 9 holes or Dhs 125 for 18 holes. For tee reservations call 04-883 6000.
The Address Montgomerie
Located in Emirates Hills and nestling amongst enormous villas overlooking the golf course is The Address Montgomerie. Designed by Colin Montgomerie in association with Desmond Muirhead, the course features 14 lakes and 72 bunkers and has the largest single green in the world - an incredible 58,000 square feet which is in the shape of the UAE. The par 72 course is an inland links with generous landing areas and undulating greens, however played from the back tees it plays a lengthy 7,308 yards. The clubhouse, overlooking the 18th green, includes a 21-bedroomed Address hotel which is ideal should you wish to stay close to the course. Green fees for visitors to the UAE are Dhs 825 for 18 holes. Prices include a shared cart, range balls and use of the practise facilities. Golf clubs are available for hire at a cost of Dhs 200. For tee reservations call 04-390 5600.
The Els Club, Dubai Sports City
Designed by Ernie Els, the course is set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation; it is a links style layout combining traditional classic design. Stretching 7,538 yards with four sets of tees allowing players a selection of differing lengths from which to play, The Els Club offers players a challenging round accompanied by all the essential facilities that extend beyond the immaculate fairways and ultra-fast greens. The Els Club has a temporary clubhouse but has all the amenities necessary to service your needs during a visit to the club such as a pro shop, ample locker rooms, changing facilities, outdoor dining and an all-day restaurant. The magnificent new clubhouse is due to open in the final quarter of 2012. Green fees for visitors are Dhs 825 at all times. The price includes a shared golf cart with GPS and complimentary range balls. Taylor Made clubs are available for hire at a cost of Dhs 250. For tee reservations call 04-425 1010. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 49
SPORTS & activities
&activities
Sports
There is an incredible selection of sporting activities available in Dubai. You may wish to choose from the more popular list of activities below which is not exhaustive.
Diving
Dubai’s year-round calm, warm waters are perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike and there are several PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) courses available. The UAE has two coastlines and there are some great wreck diving options from both the east and west coast. Jumeirah Beach Hotel offer The Pavilion Dive Centre which is a PADI 5 Star Career Development Centre. It is run by fully qualified PADI instructors and again offers a full range of courses to suit beginners and experienced divers alike. Daily excursions leave at 10am returning between 1pm and 3pm. Course prices vary from between Dhs 350 to Dhs 1,600. Call 04-406 8827/8 for further details. Scuba Dubai is located on Al Barsha Road and offers scuba and snorkelling equipment for rental or sale and is aimed at divers wishing to organise their own dive trips. Equipment is rented on a 24-hour basis, you must take along original diving certification for all rentals. The office is open from 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 8.30pm, and is closed on Friday. Call 04-331 7433 for further details. 50 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
Kite surfing
You are always likely to see the colourful kites of the members of Dubai Kite Club buzzing around off the coastline at Jumeirah Beach close to Dubai Offshore Sailing Club. Kite surfing has become a mainstream watersport for anyone who is reasonably fit and confident in the water, and as Dubai is blessed with warm winds and water most of the year, it is an ideal place for all levels from beginners to advanced kite surfers. If you are a novice it is essential to have lessons for at least 6 hours and Dubai Kite Club has access to 9 instructors. Languages spoken include English, French, Arabic, Spanish, Dutch, German and Afrikaans. It is also a requirement for all kite surfers in Dubai to possess a licence and therefore you must be a member of the Dubai Kite Club to kite surf in Dubai. Temporary membership costs Dhs 200, lasts for one month and can be obtained at the beach. For information access www.kitesurf.ae or www.dubaikiteclub.com.
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club has access to the 32 foot Hatteras deep sea fishing yacht, 'Sneak Away' for fishing expeditions. Rates vary from Dhs 3,500 for four hours to Dhs 4,500 for an 8-hour expedition and 'Sneak Away' comfortably carries up to six passengers with the hire rates including all of your tackle, bait, fuel, soft drinks and a friendly crew that offer a fishing trip to remember. Fish species caught range from tuna, kingfish, barracuda and queenfish, to the best sport fish available in these waters, the magnificent sailfish. The 8-hour trip is advised for the advanced fisherman as the deeper waters provide larger and more plentiful fish. At an additional cost packed lunches are available. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise on the 33 foot 'Creek Breeze' with rates starting at Dhs 700 for an hour and a maximum capacity of 6 passengers. There are several options with cruises available from 7am until 9pm. Call 04-205 4646 for details.
Fishing & Cruising
Game Fishing is a popular sport with Sailfish being the most sought after fish amongst the fishing community. The best times for fishing trips in Dubai are from October to May however some whoppers have been landed in the summer months. In fishing nothing is guaranteed and the art of the sport is to relax and enjoy yourself. Expeditions can be tailor-made to your requirements and trips vary from between 4 hours to 10 hours in duration and range in price from Dhs 2,400 to Dhs 4,500 for the hire of the boat and a maximum of 6 people on board. The main fish to be caught in these waters are Kingfish, Queenfish, Barracuda, Bottomfish, Hammour, Cobia and of course, Sailfish. If it’s Sailfish that you’re after you will have to book a full-day expedition as the fishing grounds are 40 miles offshore. It’s not unusual for an experienced captain with a skilled fishing team to catch, tag and release as many as 10 to 20 fish per day. If your time in Dubai is limited try to book your fishing trip early to avoid disappointment. www.mydubaiconnection.com
Deep Blue Sea offers luxury boat services which are just perfect for relaxing and exploring all that the pristine gulf has to offer. They offer fishing trips, party trips and packages which you can customise to your requirements of a fun day with friends or family. Deep Blue Fishing are located in Umm Suqeim Fishing Village near the Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Their rates include the latest professional fishing equipment and expert techniques, allowing the client to have an amazing experience of fishing in the Arabian Gulf and then cooking your catch on the yacht. Their yachts vary in size from the 85-foot Dubai Marine-Duretti with a capability of hosting 25 guests with three master bedrooms, huge living rooms and 2 dining rooms, a dance floor, jacuzzi and a BBQ area complete with a surround sound music system. All yachts on charter and are equipped with all the latest technology from SONAR, GPS and depth finder and other gadgets as well as safety equipment including First Aid Kits and life jackets. Deep Blue Fishing also arrange night fishing on request. Access www.deepbluefishing.net. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 51
SPORTS SPORTS && activities activities
SKI DUBAI
Ski Dubai, situated at Mall of the Emirates, brings all the fun of snow skiing to the desert and is a superb facility. The facility holds over 6,000 tonnes of snow at any given time and is the third largest indoor snow dome in the world. It features a 400 metre ski run and a snowboarding park including a metal rail for stunts and purpose built jumps. There are five multi-directional slopes with varying slope gradients and the lift system includes a fourman chair and a button lift for the middle and upper slopes and moving walkways for the beginners slopes. Ski Dubai is excellent for children and includes the world’s largest indoor snow play area and kids party rooms. Entry to the Snow Park is Dhs 120 per adult and Dhs 110 for a child under the age of 12 years. Prices for 2 hours on the ski slope are Dhs 180 for an adult with children being charged Dhs 150. Group instructions, lesson packages and private tuition are all available, and entry prices include ski jackets and trousers, boots, skis or a snowboard, disposable socks, poles and medical insurance. Lockers may be rented for Dhs 20 with Dhs 10 being refunded after use of the locker and return of the keycard. Please note, skiers need to meet the minimum skill requirements to be allowed to access the main slope. Ski Dubai is open from 10am until 11pm during the week and from 9am until 11pm at weekends. For more information call 04-409 4000 or access www.skidxb.com.
Skydive Dubai
Skydive Dubai is the only skydiving centre in the Middle East and combines excellent staff, superb facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, a great location right next to Dubai International Marine Club, superb jumping weather and the best skydiving aircraft along with an incredible view of The Palm Jumeirah. 52 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
A tandem jump is a great way to experience the thrill of skydiving whilst under the close supervision of an experienced USPA rated (United States Parachute Association) Instructor. The Tandem Jump with Skydive Dubai costs Dhs 1,750 and includes a scenic ride to an altitude of 13,000 feet. You will then freefall for a minute before the parachute opens and your instructor brings you expertly back to the grass landing area. Your skydive includes a professional videographer to make the skydive with you to film it, and take digital photographs and not long after landing you will receive a professionally edited DVD of your skydive along with a CD of digital still photos. Use the DVD and photos to prove to your friends that you really have got what it takes! Skydive Dubai is open Monday through Saturday for experienced fun jumpers, tandems and team training. There are a variety of jumps starting at Dhs 80 for Hop n’ Pops and Dhs 120 for full altitude jumps from 13,000 feet. Gear rental, packing and jumps with a staff camera flyer are all available. Skydive Dubai is located between Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, the entrance to the drop zone is off Al Sufouh Road, just before the Habtoor Grand Hotel. The minimum age requirement is 21 years and Skydive Dubai accepts only local currency or Visa, MasterCard and Discover for payment. For more information call +971 50 1533222 or access www.skydivedubai.ae. o@skydivedubai.ae
‘til you
Shop
drop!
If shopping was an Olympic sport, Dubai would win the Gold Medal hands down, every time! Incredibly, by the time building is completed on shopping malls already well under construction, Dubai will lay claim to having five of the seven largest shopping malls on the planet. Shopping malls
Dubai is renowned as the shopping capital of the Middle East and ranked second in the world (behind the United States) as a shopping destination. With over 50 shopping malls, the variety of all kinds of commodities from haute couture, electrical goods, cosmetics, perfumes, leather goods, carpets and of course gold and jewellery means that there is probably no better
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place to shop to find these products at unbeatable prices. Because of the tax-free shopping and low import duties, goods are distributed at extremely competitive prices, these savings being ultimately passed on to the consumer. Products such as gold and jewellery, electrical goods, men’s and ladies’ fashion apparel, rugs and carpets can be purchased for amazing deals that are unlikely to be matched anywhere else in the world.
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SHOPPING
BurJuman Centre
Known as the residence of high-fashion and located in the heart of Dubai with immediate access to the Khalid Bin Waleed Metro Station, BurJuman houses one of the finest collections of luxury shopping brands in the world under one roof. Names such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Valentino, D&G, Gianfranco Ferré, Burberry, Escada, Polo Ralf Lauren, Versace, Cartier and Tiffany reside with popular high street brands such as Zara, Mango, New Look, Gap, Guess, Esprit and offer a world of choice. Indeed, with over 300 leading high end and high street brands, BurJuman fulfills the elite customer’s discerning shopping needs. With a wide array of dining choices, atrium courtyards, beautiful seating and abundant foliage, the mall offers an elegant and relaxed shopping environment for shoppers from the region and across the world. Opening times are Saturday to Wednesday from 10am to 10pm and on Thursdays and Fridays from 10am until 11pm. There is a multi-cuisine food court and a host of popular restaurants and café’s at BurJuman which cater to guests between 10am and 11pm from Saturday to Wednesday and from 10am until midnight on Thursday and Friday. As a distinctive landmark BurJuman comprises over 2.8 million square feet of space including the shopping centre, business tower, hotel suites and residences. Call 04-3520222.
Deira City Centre
Located opposite the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira City Centre mall has 370 retail outlets spread over 1.2 million square feet. There is car parking available for 6,000 cars and Citywalk provides access to 13 restaurants and cafes in a purpose built food hall. There is also an 11-screen cineplex and Magic Planet, a huge indoor leisure complex, which boasts a huge family entertainment centre featuring simulators, video games, theme rides, a bowling alley and a soft adventure playground for younger children. 54 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
Stores include Carrefour and ladies’ and men’s fashion shops flourish with household names such as Balmain, Dockers, Gant, Lacoste, Mango, Hugo Boss, Ted Lapidus, French Connection, Valencia Shoes and La Senza. Electrical goods shops such as Sharaf DG, Jacky's or Jumbo Electronics and Virgin Megastore are also represented and for home interiors try Debenhams. Opening times are Saturday to Thursday from 10am to 10pm and Friday 2pm to 10pm. Call 04-2951010.
Dubai Festival City
Branded as Dubai’s ‘City within a City’, Dubai Festival City is an immense, mixeduse, waterfront development. Stretching across 4 kilometres of Dubai’s Creek in 15 development zones, it spans 1,600 acres in a harmonious blend of retail, leisure, hospitality, entertainment, office and residential offerings. Dubai Festival City is in close proximity to Dubai’s International Airport and has the added convenience of being easily accessible from the two major bridges of Dubai, as well as three direct-entry points from the 12-lane Business Bay Bridge which has recently been completed. Dubai Festival City has 2.8 million square feet of shopping, dining and entertainment, with over 600 shops and 100 restaurants, many of which provide al fresco, waterfront dining. There is also a 12-screen Grand Cinemas complex. Flagship stores include Toys R Us, Next, Plug-Ins ElectroniX, Paris Gallery, Esprit, Marks and Spencer, IKEA, ACE, Diesel, Markati Palazzo and HyperPanda. Fashion outlets include Springfield, DKNY, Hugo Boss, Pierre Cardin, Karen Millen, Lacoste, Raymond Weil, Geox, Tommy Hilfiger, Liali Jewellery and Al Futtaim Jewellery. The Link houses the Dubai Gold Marketplace providing 60 jewellery shops displaying the largest selection of top gold retailers from around the globe. Opening times are Saturday to Thursday from 10am until 10pm and Friday from 10am until midnight. Call 04-2325444.
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination and is spread over a total area of 12 million sq ft. The mall features 1,200 retail stores including several flagship stores and Middle East debuts of global brands. The Dubai Mall offers over 160 food and beverage outlets in food courts that have a capacity to seat 3,000. Department stores include Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s. Other major brands include Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Hermes, Burberry, Chloe, Gianfranco Ferre, Herve Leger, Karen Millen, Valentino, Jimmy Choo, Manolo Blahnik, La Senza, Agent Provocateur, Hugo Boss, Rodeo Drive, Bvlgari, Garrard, Rolex, Raymond Weil, Cartier, and Tag Heuer. Fashion Avenue, a 440,000 sq ft fashion precinct dedicated to haute couture, positions the mall as the fashion capital of the region whilst the Gold Souk is a sprawling gold and jewellery retail showcase featuring over 200 stores. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, with over 33,000 aquatic animals including sharks and rays, features the largest acrylic viewing panel in the world and a walk-through tunnel. The Olympic-sized Dubai Ice-Rink is another key leisure attraction and a destination for skating enthusiasts. The mall promenade opens onto The Dubai Fountain, a spectacular water, music spectacle, set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, which shoots water jets 150 metres into the air, equivalent to the height of a 50-storey building. The fountain is 275 metres long has five circles of varying sizes, two central arcs and was designed by the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas. Dubai Mall has opened the region’s first KidZania, a children’s edutainment concept; SEGA Republic, an indoor theme park; and the 22-screen REEL Cinema with a capacity of 2,800 seats. Dubai Mall offers over 14,000 car parking spaces. Opening times are Sunday to Wednesday from 10am until 10pm and Thursday to Saturday from 10am until midnight. Call 800-Dubai-Mall (800-382246255). www.mydubaiconnection.com
BurJuman Centre
Dubai Festival City Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 55
SHOPPING
Lamcy Plaza
Established in 1997, Lamcy Plaza is centrally located next to the American Hospital in Oud Metha near to Sheikh Zayed Road. The mall covers 400,000 square feet and with over 150 retail outlets can cater for just about every shopping requirement. Whilst the adults get on with more important matters, children can be left under the supervision of highly qualified staff at Lou Lou Al Dugongs, a popular play-anddiscover centre for children. Lamcy Hypermarket is a one-stop destination providing an extensive range of products including foodstuffs, clothing and electrical goods. Yet again fashion is well represented by retailers such as Bossini, Pierre Cardin, Athletes Foot, Nine West and Paris Gallery. There are a total of 17 restaurants and cafes capable of seating 700 people in the Food Court which caters for all types of cuisine from a quick bite to a leisurely meal. Open everyday from 9am to 11.30pm. Call 04-3359999.
dining and parking, a direct link for Dubai Metro commuters and increased parking spaces to accommodate 750 vehicles. Amongst the new dining options is a superb P.F. Chang’s, an American-Chinese Bistro franchise – try it, you won’t be disappointed! One of the highlights of the centre must be Ski Dubai, a huge indoor ski slope complete with a four-man chair lift where visitors can ski all year round with guaranteed snow. Add to this a Kempinski hotel, superb restaurants and a 14-screen Cinestar cinema complex and you are spoilt for choice. Incidentally, if you have not tried the Gold Class option in the Cinestar cinema complexes you don’t know what you are missing. Comfortable, reclining leather seats, with blankets and personalised food and beverage service - wonderful! Open everyday from 10am to 10pm. Call 04-3414747.
Mercato
Situated on Jumeirah Beach Road is Mercato mall, with its modern Renaissance-style Located at interchange 4 on Sheikh Zayed Road, architecture playing host to 125 stores, 16 food outlets and a multiplex cinema. Mall of the Emirates is instantly recognisable Mercato features many international brand because of the huge spherical enclosed ski centre. names in fashion and accessories, home décor The mall has more than 477 retail outlets and 65 and furniture. Stores include Mango, Top Shop, restaurants there is something for even the most Hugo Boss, Gap, Diesel, Gant, Armani Jeans and discerning of shoppers. Massimo Dutti amongst a whole host of others. Retail outlets include Harvey Nichols, Mercato has welcomed further well known Debenhams, Mango, Zara, Louis Vuitton, brands including French home accessories brand OshKosh B’Gosh and the French supermarket Genevieve Lethu, Nike, Next, River Woods, Carrefour. The two-storey Magic Planet play Mamas and Papas, Hobbs, Nayomi, L’Occitane, area is the largest supervised family entertainment Aldo, the Toy Store, Zin Zin, Kas Australia, centre in Dubai and is packed with rides and Triumph, Portfolio and the T-shirt factory. amusements to keep the children happy. The well-loved UK brand, Laura Ashley, has Mall of the Emirates have recently expanded and opened a fashion store as well as an enormous launched the Fashion Dome. Spread over a gross Laura Ashley Home store. Further new additions leasable area of 10,500 square metres, Mall of the range from international brands such as Nautica Emirates’ Fashion Dome is a one-stop destination to designer boutiques like Bullets and Butterflies. for the fashionistas of the region offering high There is free underground and ground floor fashion names such as Christian Louboutin, parking and also wheelchair access. Strollers and Cartier, Canali, Galliano, Versace, Bottega Veneta, wheelchairs are available upon request from the Mulberry, Diane von Furstenberg and the largest reception desk on the ground floor. D&G boutique in the region. Opening times are Saturday to Thursday 10am In total there are an additional 42 outlets and to 10pm, Friday 2pm to 10pm. the project, costing nearly Dhs 500 million, sees Call 04-3444161. the addition of increased facilities for shopping,
Mall of the Emirates
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Souk Madinat Jumeirah
The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is located on the beach next to the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel and has been completed in traditional Arabic style architecture. Step into the world of Madinat Jumeirah with an Abra tour through the resort. Take a relaxing journey along the meandering waterways and discover why Madinat Jumeirah is the jewel of Dubai. You can access the tours from the Abra stations near Toscana and BarZar at Souk Madinat Jumeirah with tours departing every 20 minutes. The Abra tour lasts for 25 minutes, costs Dhs 50 per person and tours are available daily from 11am until 11pm. Once inside the Madinat there is a theatre, a host of superb restaurants where you may dine at the waters edge, trendy bars and opulent nightspots with something to please everyone. Wandering through the labyrinth of the Souk’s 75 shops and getting hopelessly lost is a ‘must’ for any tourist coming to Dubai. Men’s and ladies’ fashions are catered for but don’t expect to get as varied a choice as the main shopping malls. There are still, however, household names including Rodeo Drive, Paris Moda, Bin Hendi Boutique and Oxbow. Swimwear can be purchased from Sun and Sand Sports, Villebrequin and Beyond the Beach and there are several beautiful jewellery stores tucked away in corners such as Saddiqi and Sons, Le Paris Diamond and Damas. There are several craftsmen offering candles, scented soaps, coloured sand-bottle souvenirs and an artist who specialises in personalised name painting, in a creative and unique way, all of which make great gifts. Opening times are 10am to 11pm, seven days a week. Call 04-3668888.
Wafi Mall & the Pyramids
Centrally situated in Bur Dubai near Sheikh Zayed Road, Wafi is considered to be one of, if not Dubai’s most elegant, shopping malls. A passion for art is deeply embedded in Wafi's foundations. A kaleidoscope of colour illuminates beautiful statues and intricate mosaic floors, as rays of light filter through www.mydubaiconnection.com
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
stained glass windows in the retail and dining environments. There is a select collection of the world's most original, revered and influential fashion brands, many of which are exclusive to Wafi. The classic luxury of Chanel and Escada, unconventional and edgy creations of Roccobarroco and Kitson, or the raw originality of the new wave such as Ginger & Lace, Tiger Lily and Desert Rose. Kids can enjoy the pulse racing energy of Encounter Zone and there is a variety of live performances in the casual setting of the rooftop gardens. The staggering range of bars and restaurants provide yet another layer of entertainment, whilst a choice of exclusive night clubs complete the collection. Souk Khan Murjan just has to be explored! Expect to find the authentic splendour of a 14th century souk, and the Souk is the jewel in the crown of the Wafi Collection. Opening times are Saturday to Wednesday, 10am to 10pm and Thursday and Friday 10am to midnight. Call 04-3244555. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 57
REAL estate
REAL ESTATE This article is a guide to purchasing property in Dubai and is designed to provide you with some basic information to assist you with your decision throughout the buying process. There are several renowned Real Estate companies throughout Dubai and it is always best to take advice from one of them and a solicitor before proceeding with any transaction.
F
reehold property is available to nonresidents in designated areas only, but there is plenty of choice. Properties available vary from studio apartments, ideal for holidays, up to amazing high-end 7 bedroom villas. Dubai is an exciting place to live, but as with purchasing property anywhere in the world, certain matters need to be taken into consideration. In 2002 a law was passed allowing foreigners to purchase freehold or leasehold property in certain areas of Dubai and this led to an unsustainable boom in the property market culminating in a crash in the market throughout 2008 and 2009. The market has stabilised and matured to a large degree since then and it does seem now that the market is becoming more attractive to overseas investors. Compared to earlier times, prices in 2012 have come down from ridiculously high levels to more realistic ones where serious buyers and sellers can complete deals and purchase their dream property in Dubai.
FREEHOLD AREAS
There are numerous areas where foreigners may purchase property with the main areas of note being: The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, Downtown Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubailand, Arabian Ranches, The Green Community, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Discovery Gardens and Emirates Hills.
MORTGAGES AND FINANCE
Mortgage rates have decreased in the last year or so and are now generally available at between 5% 58 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
to 6%. There are a number of financial institutions in Dubai offering mortgages to non-resident property buyers normally up to 80% of the value of the property. Non-resident buyers do not need to possess a local bank account and services of a local solicitor can be employed, who can then receive your transferred funds into a dedicated client account. A solicitor can then arrange for all payments to be made to purchase the property. If you assign your solicitor as power of attorney, it is not even necessary for you to be present at the time of property transfer. If you would rather have your own bank account, then this option can also be easily arranged through one of the many international banks throughout Dubai.
RESIDENCE VISA
Any nationality, whether based overseas or a resident of Dubai, can purchase in the freehold areas of Dubai’s Real Estate market. In general, the Dubai Government issues residence visas to new property owners. These will be subject to the current immigration rules and regulations and need to be renewed every 6 month. Under the current regulations, the property purchased should be valued at more than Dhs 1 million to qualify for a residence visa. Another major advantage to buying property in Dubai is that because you are buying in a tax-free country there is no capital gains tax. Purchasers though must pay 1.5% of the purchase price of the property when registering the proprty with the Dubai Land Department. This registration process is obligatory in order that the purchaser obtains the Title Deeds for the property.
FEES TO CONSIDER
To register the property you will be required to pay a transfer fee to either the developer if the property is still under construction, or the Dubai Lands Department if the property is completed. If you are purchasing with a mortgage there is also a payment of 0.25% of the value of the loan to be paid to either the developer or Dubai Lands Department. In addition, should the property be complete and already in use, there is normally a service maintenance fee that must be paid to the seller on a pro rata basis.
SERVICE CHARGES
Service charges are levied to maintain various common areas and facilities of the community, or building if you are purchasing an apartment. Generally, the charge is to ensure that the properties are properly managed and administered. In several of the new property developments and residential buildings throughout Dubai, service charges are levied on the owners by the Owners Associations and collected by a manager appointed on behalf of the association. Services charges throughout Dubai vary widely, depending on the area of purchase and desirability of the property. Larger developments also charge their owners an annual community charge, which is normally paid to the master developer of the project. There is an obligation on the developer to complete and handover property on time and these obligations are dealt with contractually under the www.mydubaiconnection.com
sale and purchase agreement (SPA). If the property is not completed, the agreement will normally provide an estimated handover date and usually the agreement will allow the developer some latitude in terms of extending the date so purchasers should be prepared to anticipate possible delays when awaiting possession of a property under construction. Once the property has been handed over, the developer has an obligation to provide a 10-year warranty to maintain the property. Warranties covering defects in property are dealt with contractually but it is common for developers to repair general defects for a oneyear period only.
TIME FRAME FOR PURCHASE
Purchases tend to be completed fairly quickly in Dubai and normally take between two and six weeks to complete. Although it is not necessary to obtain the services of a solicitor to complete a property transaction it is always recommended to obtain legal advice so that you can be assured that the transaction is being handled to your satisfaction.
RE-SELLING
You can sell your property to anybody. This means that they will either take over the payments to be made to the developer should the property still be under construction, or pay 100% of the amount due to you should the property be complete and fully paid up. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 59
A guide to prices -
VILLAS
DUBAILAND ARABIAN RANCHES
Non-residents can buy property in the Arabian Ranches and there are a total of 12 villa communities to choose from providing plenty of options. The community is mature and boasts its own shopping centre including a Spinney's Supermarket, a Community Centre, the Arabian Ranches Golf Club and the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club which includes a riding academy where children and adults can learn to ride before making the most of a desert hack! Arabian Ranches is located in Dubailand but is close to several motorways and has good access to Mall of the Emirates, Jebel Ali and the city. This is a gated development with security staff at each entrance and there are beautifully landscaped areas, communal pools, pedestrianised walkways and biking opportunities. Two of Dubai's most soughtafter schools, Jumeirah English Speaking School ( JESS) and GEMS World Academy are within easy reach with JESS actually situated within the Arabian Ranches development. Prices start at around Dhs 1.4 million for two bed properties increasing to Dhs 1.8 million for three beds, Dhs 3.5 million for four beds, Dhs 4 million for five beds and in excess of Dhs 6 million for the high end Hattan villas.
THE PALM JUMEIRAH
Probably more column inches has been written about The Palm Jumeirah than anything else in Dubai over the last twelve years or so. 60 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
The man-made Palm Jumeirah stretches 6 kilometres out from the coastline with the trunk containing apartments and the villas on the fronds allow residents direct access to their very own beach. It is estimated that The Palm Jumeirah has added almost 80 kilometres of coastline to Dubai's coastline and is a modern-day marvel. The breakwater, known as The Crescent, surrounding The Palm Jumeirah boasts luxurious hotels including Atlantis, One&Only Royal Mirage, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Rixos, Fairmont Residences and Kempinski Hotel and Residences. The Palm Jumeirah is the world’s largest manmade island and construction began in 2001 with the first properties being handed over in 2007. There are approximately 1,400 villas and 2,500 shoreline apartments and The Palm even has its own monorail connecting the mainland to Atlantis, The Palm. The Palm Jumeirah has several types of property available to buyers. Expect to pay in the region of Dhs 1.5 million for a two-bedroomed apartment in The Golden Mile rising to in excess of Dhs 6.5 million for a four bedroomed Shoreline apartment with spectacular sea views. Apartments are also available in several of the hotel complexes such as Kempinski, The Palm and The Fairmont Residences. Villa prices start in excess of Dhs 8.5 million for a four bedroomed villa located nearer the trunk of The Palm and tend to increase in price as the villas in the middle and towards the tips of the fronds are more sought after. The larger 5 bedroomed villas tend to start at Dhs 11.5 million with Signature Villas commencing at Dhs 22.5 million.
APARTMENTS There are many residents of Dubai who tend to travel extensively throughout the region with their work committments and therefore lock-it-andleave apartments tend to be extremely popular in the city. As an added bonus most apartment blocks have their own swimming pools and gyms so you are never too far from that workout or a relaxing sun lounger and temperature-controlled pool. Non-residents therefore have a huge choice of apartments if they are looking for their very own holiday place in the sun!
DUBAI MARINA
Dubai Marina is the largest man-made Marina in the world and boasts numerous towers with apartments having superb water views over the Marina. The Marina is extremely popular with single residents and young families because there is really something for everyone. The Marina Mall provides for all your shopping needs and there are more hotels, bars, restaurants, cafes, banks and general purpose retail outlets than you could possibly need. The Marina complex also includes the mixed-use Jumeirah Lake Towers ( JLT) www.mydubaiconnection.com
and the sprawling, beachfront Jumeirah Beach Residence ( JBR) which, at the time of construction, was the largest single development in the world. There are studio apartments available from as little as Dhs 500,000 with one bedroomed marina view apartments commencing at Dhs 800,000. Prices increase, depending on desirability, commencing at Dhs 1.4 million for two bedroomed apartments and just under Dhs 1.9 million for three beds. Some of the very best four bedroomed, full seaview apartments with the very best fitouts are available but they will be approaching, or sometimes in excess of, Dhs 20 million. Generally apartments tend to be a little cheaper in JBR and cheaper still in JLT - with the exeption of some spectacular full seaview apartments in JBR some of which are duplex and boast a terrace and plunge pool selling at upwards of Dhs 10 million. Discover Dubai DECEMBER | 61
HEALTH & beauty
Health & beauty Dubai offers an abundance of medical, dental and cosmetic treatments, and is fast becoming a destination for combining a vacation with minor medical and cosmetic treatments.
Your health
Let's hope that your holiday is not ruined by becoming ill or getting injured, but rest assured that healthcare is of a particularly high standard in Dubai and obtaining treatment is relatively easy. Appointments at doctors or dental clinics can normally be made for the same day. Healthcare however is quite expensive and it is highly recommended that tourists have some form of medical insurance in place. On that note, it is always a good idea to carry a photocopy of your insurance cover at all times because if you are involved in an accident, or are otherwise taken to hospital, you may find that you are not admitted for treatment if you are not able to provide proof of insurance. Please see listings for beauty salons, hospitals, dental surgeons, pharmacies, optical specialists and spas in the Green Pages at the back of Discover Dubai.
that instant glow without the necseeity of spending hours on the beach. Henna tattoos are very popular with both local women and tourists and they can be obtained in salons that are aimed primarily at Arabic ladies or at attractions such as desert safaris. The tattoos normally last for about a week before fading.
Spas
Dubai is well known for its extensive range of lavish spa treatments. Why not indulge yourself in a little pampering in luxurious surroundings? More popular treatments include reflexology, aromatherapy massages, facial or body treatments, scrubs and peels. If you feel like being especially pampered and don’t have the time to attend the salon there are beauticians who will make a visit to your hotel room or accommodation to make sure you look and feel great with the minimum effort.
Pharmacies
Optical Lasik laser treatment
Beauty salons
Cosmetic surgery
Daily newspapers list at least one pharmacy that is open 24 hours a day. However if medication is urgently required the number of the appropriate pharmacy may be obtained by phoning your hotel concierge or Dubai Municipality on 04-2232323. One of the boom industries in Dubai is the search for eternal youth and to look one’s very best at all times! Beauty salons are extremely popular with tourists and residents alike and they offer a wide range of services to their clientele including pedicures, manicures, gel and acrylic nails, facials, hair removal, hair straightening and extensions as well as solarium treatments and spray tanning for 62 | DECEMBER Discover Dubai
Surgeons specialising in corrective laser eye surgery including cross-sightedness, nearsightedness, far-sightedness, cataracts and astigmatism are available in Dubai to provide advanced treatment to patients. Appointments are easy to arrange and treatment is immediate.
There is an abundant supply of highly-skilled and vastly experienced cosmetic surgeons available in Dubai who are able to offer all available forms of cosmetic surgery to their clients. Surgery can be performed comparatively quickly in either the surgery or hospital, depending on the treatment required, and is competitively priced compared with European surgeons.
Celebrating our NEW Branch
Tel: +9714 379 2507
HEALTH & beauty
December's Spa Promotions SENSASIA URBAN SPA
SOFTOUCH SPA
Get ready for the party season with the 45-minute ‘After SPA-arty’ back, neck and shoulder massage, including a heavenly head massage, priced at Dhs 295. Call 04-4472865.
Softouch Spa at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates has launched a new facial treatment from MilaDopiz, the Swiss Beauty Range. The Phyto De Luxe Gold Facial is a 75-minute revolutionary anti-ageing facial treatment with smoothing and firming effects.The treatment has three phases: a rejuvenation phase to stimulate the cells, a regeneration phase to repair the cells and a lifting phase to firm and smooth the skin and is priced at Dhs 1,500. Call 04-4095909 or email spa.malloftheemirates@kempinski.com.
ESSENTIAL BEAUTY SALON Enjoy a Dermalogica facial this December at Essential Beauty salon for Dhs 250 (usually Dhs 350). Plus for the festive season, prepare your feet to party all night long by booking in for a callus peel treatment for Dhs 50, this month only. Call 04-3955909.
AMARA SPA Park Hyatt Dubai’s Amara Spa presents Christmas Glow, an exclusive package featuring some of Amara’s most indulgent treatment combinations.The Christmas Glow package commences with the ever popular Ruby Ceremony. Bursting with sensations, the Ruby Ceremony is highlighted by Aromatherapy Associates’ signature exfoliation that prepares guests for a luxurious hot stone full body massage. The mineral-enriched emulsion will leave the skin radiantly smooth and velvety. You are then invited to enjoy the healthy spa menu. This package is usually priced at Dhs 900, but throughout December Amara Spa is offering it at the special price of just Dhs 765. Call 04-6021660.
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JETSET
TAJ SPA
Every girl wants fabulous hair during the busy December and New Year period. A fabulous offer at an amazing price, JetSet has neatly packaged all of your regular hair needs into one gorgeous bundle with a root re-touch, haircut and signature blow dry. ‘New Year, New Hair’ is priced at Dhs 450 and can be purchased from any JetSet branch before 31st December and is redeemable until 31st January. Services must be redeemed at one time only. Call JetSet Grosvenor House on 04-3995005, Palm Strip on 04-3868604 or Emirates Towers Boulevard on 04-3300886.
Buy any Signature Treatment at Taj Spa at Taj Palace Dubai and get 50% off the second spa treatment. Signature treatments include The Spice of Life (Dhs 575),Arabian White Musk (Dhs 550), and Grape Vine (Dhs 630).50% off the second spa treatment is valid on Blissful Massages, Scrubs, Facials and Quick de Stressors. Call 04-2113101 or email tphspa.dxb@tajhotels.com.
TALISE OTTOMAN SPA The Festive Special package at Talise Ottoman Spa includes a selection of signature treatments designed to rejuvenate body and mind, leaving them with a renewed sense of vitality. The treatment is priced at Dhs 1,350, includes a traditional Turkish hammam, Sultan’s Massage, cleansing facial and lunch, and is valid from now until 20th January 2013. Call 04-4530456.
DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL Treat yourself or a special someone this festive season at Saray Spa. Enjoy a 90-minute treatment starting with a coffee body scrub and body wrap, followed by a facial with a cranberry cleanser. Guests can make use of the steam, sauna, Jacuzzi and swimming pool, and enjoy complimentary mint tea, dates and chocolates in the relaxation lounge. The treatment is priced from Dhs 350 per person. In addition, festive gift vouchers are available for purchase and throughout December, if you book any 60-minute facial receive a complimentary 30-minute hand and foot massage. Call 04-3194630.
SENSO WELLNESS CENTRE Treat yourself or a loved one to the Chocolate Delights relaxation this month. This 2-hour Senso December package includes a coffee-choco bath soak, stress relief back massage, Indian head massage, foot reflexology, Anne Semonin express facial and free access to the swimming pool for Dhs 680. Call 04-3669111.
THE SPA AT SHANGRI-LA Purchase any full body massage in December and January and receive a complimentary á la carte facial. Alternatively, purchase any spa treatment during off-peak hours and receive a complimentary add-on á la carte service of your choice.This is valid during December and January from 9am to 1pm from Sunday until Thursday. Call 04-4052441.
SHERATON SPA Get yourself pampered before the Festive Season and take advantage of a special discounted offer at the Sheraton Spa with the Therapist Signature Massage. Consult your massage therapist to create a customised full-body massage with light or deep pressure, focusing on particular areas to provide stress and tension release as well as a body detox. The massage is available for either Dhs 250 (60 minutes) or Dhs 325 (90 minutes) and is only available during December. Call 02-6970272.
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85. Rainbow Hotel 86. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
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83
85
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80 Business Bay
Ski Dubai
Meydan 20. Dubai Mall 21. Souk Al Bahar 22. Dubai Festival City
C1 C1 D2
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police.........................................................999 Ambulance....................................998 or 999 Fire ............................................................997 Dubai Police Headquarters ...........229 2222 Dubai Municipality ........................223 2323 24 hour hotline
ACCOMMODATION
SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION BurJuman Rotana Hotel Apartments BurJuman Centre ........................................352 4444 Flora Park Hotel Apartments ..................294 9966 Flora Creek Hotel Apartments ................294 3232 Le Meridien Dar Al Sondos Hotel Apartments. Rolla Street, Bur Dubai...............................393 8000 106 apartments ranging from studios to 2 bed-roomed apartments. Book on-line at ww.lemeridien.com. MyDubaiStay - MSG ........................428 0380 Apartment 110, Al Sultana Bldg, Palm Jumeirah www.mydubaistay.com Orange Real Estate ..........................395 4402 Short term lets. www.dubaishortbreaks.com Rihab Rotana Suites Near Deira City Centre ......................294 0300 Savoy Hotel Apartments Al Rais Centre, Bur Dubai. ...............355 3000 The Courtyard by Marriott Green Community Dubai, 4 star.................885 2222 Wafi Residence Bur Dubai..........................................324 7222 Villa Rotana Suites Sheikh Zayed Road ............................321 6111
HOTELS The list below shows hotels with a rating of 3 stars or higher and the area of the hotel in Dubai. Admiral Plaza Hotel Bur Dubai, 3 star........................................ 393 5333 Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Garhoud, 5 star........................................... 282 0000 Al Jawhara Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................222 3141 Al Khaleej Hotel Deira, 3 star. ................................................221 1144 Al Maha Desert Resort 5 star............................................................303 4223 Al Manzil Hotel The Old Town, Burj Khalifa.......................428 5888 Al Murooj Rotana Sheikh Zayed Road .....................................321 1111 Al Qasr Hotel Madinat Jumeirah, 5 Star............................366 8888
Ambassador Hotel Bur Dubai, 3 star.........................................393 9444 Arabian Courtyard Hotel Bur Dubai, 4 star...............................................351 9111 Ascot Hotel Bur Dubai, 4 star.........................................352 0900 Astoria Hotel Bur Dubai, 3 star.........................................353 7000 Atlantis, The Palm The Palm Jumeirah, 5 star .........................426 1000 Avari Dubai International Deira, 4 star.................................................295 6666 Avenue Hotel Deira, 4 star .............................................. 297 0808 Bab al Shams 5 star............................................................832 6699 Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. 5 star. ..........................................301 7777 Capitol Hotel Satwa, 4 star. ...............................................346 0111 Carlton Tower Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................222 7111 Chelsea Hotel Bur Dubai, 5 star.........................................398 8840 Claridge Hotel Bur Dubai, 3 star.........................................271 6666 Copthorne Hotel, Dubai Deira, 4 star ................................................295 0500 Coral Boutique Hotel Apartments Al Barsha, 5 star. ........................................340 9040 Coral Boutique Villas Al Barsha, 5 star..........................................402 8888 Coral Deira Dubai Deira, 5 star.................................................224 8587 Coral Oriental Dubai Deira, 4 star.................................................228 1999 Crowne Plaza Sheikh Zayed Road, 5 star. .........................331 1111 Crowne Plaza, Dubai, Deira Deira,5 star. .................................................262 5555 Dar Al Masyaf Madinat Jumeirah, 5 star ............................366 8888 Dhow Palace Hotel Bur Dubai, 5 star.........................................359 9992 Dubai Grand Hotel Deira, 4 star................................................263 2555 Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa Jumeirah, 5 star. ..........................................346 1111 Dubai Palm Hotel Al Madina Deira, 3 star. .............................271 0021 Dusit Thani Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, 5 star. .........................343 3333 Flora Grand Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................223 3344 Four Points Sheraton Bur Dubai, 4 star ...................................... 397 7444
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Discover Dubai - December 2012
Golden Tulip Al Barsha, 4 star ........................................341 7750 Grand Hyatt Dubai Garhoud, 5 star............................................317 1234 Grosvenor House Hotel Dubai Marina, 5 star ...................................399 8888 Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marina, 5 star ...................................399 5000 Hallmark Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................222 1999 Hatta Fort Hotel Hatta, 4 star. ................................................809 9333 Hilton Dubai Creek Deira, 5 star. ............................................... 227 1111 Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Dubai Marina, 5 star....................................399 1111 Holiday Inn Downtown Deira, 4 star.................................................228 8889 Hyatt Regency Dubai Deira,5 star. .................................................209 1234 Ibis Sheikh Zayed Road, 3 star. .........................332 4444 Imperial Suites Hotel Bur Dubai, 3 star.........................................351 5100 Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Jebel Ali, 5 star. ..........................................814 5555 Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeirah, 5 star. ..........................................348 0000 Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road, 5 star. .........................330 0000 Jumeirah Rotana Hotel Satwa, 4 star. ...............................................345 5888 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray The Palm Jumeirah, 5 star .........................453 0000 JW Marriott Hotel Deira, 5 star.................................................262 4444 Karama Hotel Bur Dubai.....................................................3366607 Khaleej Palace Hotel Deira. 4 star.................................................223 1000 Landmark Hotel Deira, 3 star.................................................228 6666 Le Meridien Dubai Garhoud, 5 star............................................282 4040 Le Meridien Fairway Hotel Garhoud, 4 star............................................283 3000 Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Hotel (currently closed) Jumeirah, 5 star. ..........................................399 3333 Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa Jumeirah, 5 star. ..........................................399 5555 Lotus Boutique Hotel Deira, 4 star ...............................................273 5555 Lotus Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................227 8888 Madinat Jumeirah Jumeirah, 5 star. ......................................... 366 8888 Marco Polo Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................272 0000 Mayfair Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................228 4444
Metropolitan Hotel Deira Deira, 4 star ................................................295 9171 Metropolitan Palace Hotel Deira, 5 star.................................................227 0000 Millennium Airport Hotel Garhoud, 4 star............................................282 3464 Mina A' Salam Madinat Jumeirah, 5 star.............................366 8888 Moscow Hotel Deira............................................................228 8222 Movenpick Hotel Bur Dubai, 5 star.........................................336 6000 Novotel Sheikh Zayed Road, 4 star. .........................318 7000 One&Only Royal Mirage Al Sufouh, 5 star. ........................................399 9999 Palm Beach Rotana Inn Bur Dubai, 3 star........................................ 393 1999 Princess Flamingo Hotel Deira, 3 star............................................... 263 5500 Qamardeen Hotel Old Town, Burj Khalifa..............................428 5888 Radisson Blu Deira, 5 star.................................................222 7171 Radisson Blu Dubai Media City, 4 star .............................366 9111 Raffles Dubai Bur Dubai, near Wafi, 5 star.......................324 8888 Ramada Continental Hotel, Deira, 4 star.................................................266 2666 Ramada Hotel Bur Dubai, 4 star.........................................351 9999 Ramee Deira Hotel Deira, 3 star. ...............................................295 8777 Regent Palace Hotel Bur Dubai, 4 star.........................................396 3888 Rihab Rotana Suites Deira, 4 star.................................................294 0300 Rimal Rotana Suites Deira, 4 star................................................268 8000 Riviera Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................222 2131 Rydges Plaza Hotel Satwa, 4 star. ...............................................398 2222 Samaya Hotel Deira, 5 star.................................................703 3333 Seaview Hotel Bur Dubai, 4 star.........................................355 8080 Shangri-La Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road, 5 star. .........................343 8888 Sheraton Deira Hotel & Towers Deira, 5 star.................................................268 8888 Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Deira, 5 star.... .............................................228 1111 Sheraton Jumeirah Resort & Towers Dubai Marina, 5 star. .................................399 5533 Sofitel, City Centre Deira, 5 star.......................................294 1222 Sofitel, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, 5 star .....448 4848
DINING With the different nationalities and cultures that have influenced cuisine in Dubai there is no doubt that there is an amazing choice of dining to satisfy all tastes and suit all price ranges. We have tried to make the dining-out guide as simple as possible and have categorised the following restaurants by virtue of their location, the type of cuisine they offer and price range which is assessed for an average three-course meal per head without alcohol. Alcohol can be quite expensive in Dubai and I would suggest that you look carefully at wine list prices before just casually ordering a bottle or two. It is also apparent that, as in many other countries, waiters will sometimes place bottles of water on the table - it is always advisable to check whether you have ordered the water as sometimes prices can be quite expensive. As a general rule of thumb, most restaurants that are in hotels are licensed, restaurants outside hotels tend not to be licensed. If in doubt enquire when you are making your reservation. Restaurants have been graded according to price ranges as follows. Each grading refers to a three course meal per person not including alcohol; Price range - Low - Dhs 150 or less Price range - Medium - Dhs 150 - 250 Price range - High - Over Dhs 250
Obviously we depend considerably on feedback from our readers and if you consider that any restaurants could be added to our listings please contact John Radcliffe on john.connectorpublishing@gmail.com AL FRESCO RESTAURANTS Barasti ...................................................................399 3333 Price range - medium Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh Beach Bar and Grill ............................................399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh Capanna Nuova ...................................................346 1111 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah Dhow & Anchor ...................................................348 0000 Price range - medium. International food Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Medzo.....................................................................324 4100 Price range - medium Wafi Pyramids, Bur Dubai Meridien Village Terrace ....................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Deira Pierchic ..................................................................366 8888 Price range - high Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Rooftop Terrace ...................................................336 6000 Price range - medium Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai Seville's ..................................................................324 7300 Price range - medium Wafi Pyramids. Bur Dubai Sho Cho's ..............................................................346 1111 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah Thai Bistro ............................................................346 1111 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah The Boardwalk ....................................................295 6000 Price range - medium Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira The Irish Village ..................................................282 4750 Price range - low Aviation Club, Garhoud The Meat Company ............................................368 6040 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim QD's .......................................................................295 6000 Price range - medium Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira
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Sun and Sands Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................223 9000 Taj Palace Hotel Deira, 5 star.................................................223 2222 The Courtyard by Marriott Green Community Dubai, 4 star.................885 2222 The Fairmont Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road, 5 star. .........................332 5555 The JW Marriott Harbour Hotel ..........319 4000 Opposite Dubai International Marine Club The Palace - The Old Town Downtown Burj Khalifa, 5 star.................. 428 7888 The Rixos, The Palm Dubai The Palm Jumeirah, 5 star.......................... 457 5555 The Westin Jumeirah, 5 star ......................................... 399 4141 Towers Rotana Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road, 4 star. .........................343 8000 Traders Hotel Deira, 4 star.................................................265 9888 Tulip Inn Knowledge Village Jumeirah, 4 star...........................................367 1222 Vendome Plaza Hotel Deira, 3 star.................................................222 2333
ALL-INCLUSIVE BUFFET RESTAURANTS; The following restaurants normally offer various promotions including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in their price and provide excellent value for money. AOC (Friday Brunch) .......................................... 448 4848 Sofitel Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina Al Dhiyafa ............................................................ 399 5000 Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Bamboo Lagoon (Friday Brunch)........................607 7977 Asian and Seafood JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Dunes CafĂŠ.............................................................343 8888 International and Seafood Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Dusit Delicatessen.................................................343 3333 Thai, International and Seafood Dusit Thani Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Flavours on Two ...................................................343 8000 Various themed buffets and promotions Towers Rotana Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Imperium (Friday Brunch)...................................453 0444 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, The Palm Jumeirah Marketplace (Friday Brunch) ..............................262 4444 Various themed promotions - call to check JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Spectrum On One (Friday Brunch) ....................332 5555 Various themed promotions - call to check The Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Spice Island ...........................................................262 5555 Various themed promotions - call to check Crowne Plaza Dubai, Deira (formerly The Renaissance) The Observatory (Friday Brunch) .................... 319 4000 Buffet brunch including a carvery Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina Warehouse (Friday Brunch) .................................702 2455 Beer garden, bar & lounge, various promotions Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Yalumba (Friday Brunch) .................................. 702 2455 Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud
AMERICAN Beyond El Rancho .........................................272 0000 Price range - low Marco Polo Hotel, Deira Billy Blues .......................................................398 2272 Price range - low Rydges Plaza Hotel, Satwa Boston Bar ......................................................345 5888 Price range - low Jumeirah Rotana Hotel, Satwa
Chilli's Price range - low Garhoud ............................................................282 8484 Jumeirah ...........................................................344 1300 BurJuman..........................................................352 2900 Internet City......................................................390 1495 Fuddruckers ...................................................282 7771 Price range - low Opposite India Palace, Garhoud Go West ..........................................................348 0000 Price range - medium Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Henry J Beans ................................................345 8350 Price range - low Capitol Hotel, Mankhool Road, Satwa Jambase ..........................................................366 6730 Price range - low Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Johnny Rockets ..............................................344 7859 Price range - low Opp. Jumeirah Centre, Jumeirah Beach Road Manhattan Grill .............................................317 1234 Price range - medium Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bur Dubai Napa ................................................................366 8888 Price range - low Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Planet Hollywood............................................324 4777 Price range - medium Wafi City, Bur Dubai Ponderosa Steakhouse ...................................295 3527 Price range - low Next to Dnata car park, Deira Rock Bottom CafĂŠ ..........................................396 3888 Price range - low Regent Palace Hotel, Bur Dubai ARABIC/LEBANESE Ajwa ................................................................282 3464 Price range - low Millennium Airport Hotel, Garhoud Ahlan Lounge ..................................................351 9111 Price range - medium Arabian Courtyard, Bur Dubai Al Basha .........................................................399 5000 Price range - medium Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Al Dana............................................................222 2131 Price range - low Riviera Hotel, Deira Al Diwan..........................................................227 0000 Price range - medium Metropolitan Palace Hotel, Deira
Mir Amin .........................................................344 9921 Price range - low Opposite Jumeirah Beach Park, Jumeirah Olive House .....................................................343 3110 Price range - low Lebanese - Tower 1, Sheikh Zayed Road XVA ..................................................................353 5383 Price range - low Bastakia Quarter, near Al Musallah roundabout. ARGENTINIAN/ LATINO Asado (Steakhouse)..............................................428 7971 The Palace, The Old Town Dubai La Parilla (Steakhouse) ......................................348 0000 Price range - high Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Malecon.. ................................................................346 1111 Cuban fusion - price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah Pachanga ...............................................................399 1111 Price range - medium Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Residence.
ASIAN Eau Zone................................................................399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh Ginseng................. .................................................324 4777 Price range - medium Vietnamese, Wafi City, Garhoud Noshi Noshi ...................... ....................................344 3377 Price range - low Opposite Jumeirah Beach Park, Jumeirah Hana ................................ ......................................222 2131 Price range - medium - Asian fusion Riviera Hotel, Deira Hoi An.................. ..................................................343 8888 Price range - medium. Fusion Vietnamese/French Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Lotus One ..............................................................329 3200 Price range - medium Convention Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road White Orchid .......................................................814 5555 Price range - medium Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Jebel Ali BARS Marbles.........................................................205 7333/7444 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Up on the Tenth Jazz Bar .........................205 7333/7444 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira KuBu Tattoo Themed Bar.........................205 7333/7444 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira
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Al Fardous.......................................................268 8888 Price range - medium Sheraton Deira Hotel, Deira Al Iwan ............................................................301 7600 Price range - high Burj Al Arab Hotel, Umm Suqueim Al Khaima .......................................................399 5555 Price range - low Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Al Khayal.........................................................348 0000 Price range - medium Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Al Mijana.........................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Deira Al Muna...........................................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Al Nafoorah.....................................................330 0000 Price range - medium Emirates Towers Hotel, Sh. Zayed Road. Al Nafoorah ................................................. 453 0444 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, The Palm Jumeirah Al Tannour.......................................................331 1111 Price range - high Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road Al Qasr .............................................................346 1111 Price range - high Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah Awafi ................................................................262 4444 Price range - medium JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Awtar ...............................................................317 1234 Price range - medium Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bur Dubai Bastakiah Nights.............................................353 7772 Bur Dubai Butterfly ..........................................................222 7111 Carlton Tower Hotel, Deira Ewaan......................................................................428 7951 The Palace, The Old Town Dubai Kanzaman .......................................................393 7151 Price range - low Dubai Heritage Village, Bur Dubai Khater..............................................................334 4334 Price range - low Karama, Bur Dubai Lebanese Village Restaurant .........................352 2522 Price range - low Near the Ramada Hotel, Mankhool Street, Bur Dubai Local House.....................................................353 2288 Price range - low Bastakia Quarter, Bur Dubai
CAKES Boulevard Gourmet Cake Shop ...............205 7333/7444 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira
CHINESE Chinese Pavillion .................................................344 4432 Price range - low Jumeira Beach Centre, Jumeirah Dynasty...................................................................351 9999 Price range - low Ramada Hotel, Bur Dubai Emperor .................................................................346 0111 Price range - low Capitol Hotel, Satwa Golden Dragon Restaurant Trade Centre Road .................................................396 7788 Dubai Internet City..................................................391 1480 Jebel Ali Free Zone ................................................881 5242 Hakkasan ...............................................................384 8484 Price range high Jumeirah Emirates Towers (Ground floor) Lan Kwai-Fong.....................................................335 3680 Price range - low Opposite Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai Long Yin ...............................................................282 4040 Price range - low Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Mini Chinese .........................................................345 9976 Price range - low Al Diyafah Street, Satwa Peacock...................................................................399 5533 Price range - medium Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort, Dubai Marina Shang Palace .........................................................343 8888 Price range - low Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Summer Place .......................................................399 5000 Price range - medium, Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina The China Club...........................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Zheng He's ............................................................366 8888 Price range - high Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim
DINNER CRUISES Al Mansour Dhow.......................................205 7333/7444 Arabic food - price range - medium Opposite Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Bateaux Dubai.......................................................399 4994 Price range - medium - International food Dubai Creek, near the British Embassy
FRENCH Café Chic ...............................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Entrecôte Café de Paris ......................................223 1000 Price range - medium Al Khaleej Palace Hotel, Deira Le Classique .........................................................380 2222 Price range - medium/high Emirates Golf Club, Interchange 5, Sheikh Zayed Road St. Tropez Bistro ...................................................286 9029 Price range - low Century Village, Garhoud Voi .........................................................................453 0444 Colonial French/Vietnamese price range - high Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, The Palm Jumeirah GERMAN Brauhaus................................................................345 5888 Price range - low Jumeirah Rotana Hotel, Satwa Hofbrauhaus .........................................................607 7977 Price range - low JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Der Keller ..............................................................348 0000 Price range - low The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim KOREAN Silla .........................................................................266 2666 Price range - medium, Ramada Continental Hotel, Deira
INDIAN Ashaya (Karama) ................................................336 5339 Price range - low Al Shindagah.........................................................227 0000 Price range - low Metropolitan Palace Hotel, Deira Amala ................................................................... 453 0444 Price range - medium Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, The Palm Jumeirah Antique Bazaar.....................................................397 7444 Price range - medium Four Points Sheraton, Bur Dubai Ashiana ..................................................................207 1733 Price range - medium Sheraton Dubai Creek, Deira Asha's .....................................................................324 4100 Price range - low Wafi Pyramids, Bur Dubai Bollywood Café.....................................................355 6633 Price range - medium Regal Plaza Hotel, Bur Dubai The Bombay .........................................................272 0000 Price range - low Marco Polo Hotel, Deira
INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Al Dawaar..............................................................209 1100 Price range - medium Hyatt Regency Hotel, Deira Al Nafoorah ..........................................................224 8587 Price range - low Coral Deira, Dubai Al Samar Lounge .................................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Arboretum.............................................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Armoury Lounge..................................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Aspen Cafe ............................................................341 3600 Price range - medieum Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha Atrium ....................................................................346 0111 Price range - medium Capitol Hotel, Bur Dubai Bab Al Yam............................................................301 7777 Price range - high Burj Al Arab Hotel, Umm Suqueim Barasti ....................................................................399 3333 Price range - medium Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Al Sufouh Baywatch ...............................................................399 5533 Price range - medium Sheraton Jumeirah Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Residence Boulvar .........................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Deira CafĂŠ Insignia .........................................................351 9999 Price range - medium Ramada Hotel, Bur Dubai Cascades.................................................................332 5555 Price range - low The Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Celebrities........................................................399 9999 Price range - high The One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh Latitude..................................................................348 0000 Price range - low Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Evory Lounge........................................................341 3600 Price range - medium Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha Choices ...................................................................282 0000 Price range - medium Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Garhoud
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Casa Goa................................................................393 1999 Price range - low Palm Beach Rotana Inn, Bur Dubai Coconut Grove......................................................398 3800 Price range - low Rydges Plaza Hotel, Satwa Dhamaal.................................................................393 4777 Price range - low Seashell Inn Hotel, Bur Dubai Dakshin ..................................................................227 8888 Price range - low Lotus Hotel, Deira Dhadkhan...............................................................222 7111 Price range - low Carlton Tower Hotel, Deira Haveli......................................................................351 5100 Price range - low Imperial Suites Hotel, Bur Dubai India House ...........................................................352 6006 Price range - low Opposite Sheba Electronics, Al Hisn Street, Bur Dubai India Palace Restaurant ....................286 9600, 368 5567 Al Garhoud and Ibn Battuta Mall Indego by Vineet...................................................399 8888 Price Range - high Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai Marina Jashan.....................................................................332 0202 Price range - low, White Crown Building, Shk. Zayed Rd Mohanlal's Taste Buds.........................................336 2001 Price range - low Near Choithram's Supermarket, Fish Market, Karama Mumtaz Mahal......................................................351 9111 Price range - high Arabian Court Hotel, Bur Dubai Nalukettu ...............................................................263 2555 Price range - low Grand Hotel, Al Ghusais Nina.........................................................................399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh Rasoi ......................................................................224 8587 Price range - low Coral Deira, Dubai Spice CafĂŠ ..............................................................349 9951 Price range - low Town Centre Shopping Mall, Jumeirah Sukh Sagar ...........................................................396 7222 Trade Centre Road, Karama Ushna......................................................................368 6506 Price range - medium, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim
Fountain.................................................................336 6000 Price range - medium, Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai Flavours on Two ...................................................343 8000 Price range - medium Towers Rotana Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Glasshouse..............................................................227 1111 Price range - medium Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel, Deira Jeema......................................................................809 9333 Price range - medium Hatta Fort Hotel, Hatta Khaymat Al Bahar ...............................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim La Baie ...................................................................399 4000 Price range - medium Ritz Carlton, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina La Cite....................................................................294 1222 Price range - low City Centre Hotel, Deira La Marguerite .......................................................222 7111 Price range - medium Carlton Tower Dubai, Deira Le Gourmand........................................................332 4444 Price range - medium Ibis Hotel, nr. Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road Le Rendevouz........................................................223 2222 Price range - low Taj Palace Hotel, Deira Oceana..............................................................399 1111 Price range - medium Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Residence Pisces.......................................................................366 8888 Price range - high Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Rhodes Mezzanine................................................399 8888 Price range -high Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai Marina Salmontini .............................................................341 0222 Price range - medium Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha Senses .....................................................................301 9888 Price range - low Gold Swiss-Belhotel, Bur Dubai Sea Breeze..............................................................399 5555 Price range - medium Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Shoo Fee Ma Fee ..................................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah Teatro......................................................................343 8000 Price range - medium Towers Rotana Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
The Explorer .........................................................272 0000 Price range - low Marco Polo Hotel, Deira The Ivy ...................................................................319 8767 Price range - high Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road The Kitchen...........................................................209 1234 Price range - medium Hyatt Regency Hotel, Deira The Rotisserie........................................................399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh Vintage ...................................................................324 0000 Price range - medium Wafi Pyramids, Bur Dubai Vu's .........................................................................330 0000 Price range - high Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Warehouse .............................................................702 2455 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Waves......................................................................399 3333 Price range - medium Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, Al Sufouh World Trade Club ................................................309 7979 Price range - high Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road
IRANIAN/PERSIAN Al Zumorrod .........................................................222 7111 Price range - medium Carlton Tower Hotel, Deira Pars Iranian Kitchen ...........................................398 4000 Price range - medium Near World Trade Centre in the Wilson building Shabestan...............................................................222 7171 Price range - medium The InterContinental Hotel, Deira Shahrzad................................................................209 1200 Price range - medium Hyatt Regency Hotel, Deira
ITALIAN Al Fresco.................................................................331 1111 Price range - medium Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road Andiamo.................................................................317 1234 Price range - medium Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bur Dubai BiCE........................................................................399 1111 Price range - medium Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Residence BiCE Mare ........................................................... 423 9082 Price range - high Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
Ossigeno ...............................................................399 5555 Price range - medium Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort, Dubai Marina Pax Romana .......................................................343 3333 Price range - medium Dusit Thani Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road Pompeii Italian Restaurant and Cafe .............453 9390 Price range - low Jumeirah Lake Towers (Cluster T) Segreto .................................................................366 6730 Price range - high Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Toscana ................................................................366 8888 Price range - low Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Verdi ....................................................................223 2222 Price range - low Taj Palace Hotel Dubai, Deira Vivaldi .................................................................207 1717 Price range - medium Sheraton Dubai Creek, Deira
JAPANESE Benihana .............................................................282 0000 Price range - medium Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Garhoud Creekside Japanese Restaurant .......................207 1750 Price range - medium Sheraton Dubai Creek, Deira ET Sushi .............................................................330 0000 Price range - medium Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Kiku ......................................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Kisaku ..................................................................223 1000 ENJOY. Chef Chitoshi Takahashi Al Khaleej Palace Hotel, Deira Minato ........................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Miyako ................................................................209 6717 Price range - high Hyatt Regency Hotel, Deira Nobu ...................................................................426 2626 Price range - high Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah Sakura ................................................................ 223 2222 Price range - medium Taj Palace Hotel, Deira Sakura ..................................................................331 1111 Price range - medium Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Bussola ...................................................................399 3333 Price range - medium The Westin Hotel, Al Sufouh Capanna Nuova.....................................................346 1111 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah Carnevele ...............................................................348 0000 Price range - medium The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Casa Mia................................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Ciro's Pomodoro...................................................399 3333 Price range - medium Le Meridien Mina Seyahi,Al Sufouh Come Prima ..........................................................282 0000 Price range - low Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Garhoud Cubo Pasta ...........................................................332 4444 Price range - low, Ibis Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Cucina ....................................................................262 4444 Price range - low JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Da Vinci's ...............................................................703 9123 Price range - low Millenium Airport Hotel, Garhoud Focaccia ..................................................................209 1234 Mediterranean/International Hyatt Regency Hotel, Bur Dubai Il Rustico ................................................................398 2222 Price range - low Rydges Plaza Hotel, Satwa La Moda .......................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - high Radisson Blu Hotel, Deira La Moda @ Media City .......................................366 9111 Price range - medium La Traviata ............................................................814 5555 Price range - medium Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Jebel Ali La Veranda ............................................................336 6000 Price range - medium Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai Luciano's ................................................................399 5000 Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Medzo .....................................................................324 0000 Price range - medium Wafi City, Bur Dubai Mosaico ..................................................................330 0000 Price range - high Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
Sho Cho's ................................................................346 1111 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Jumeirah Sumibiya .......................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Sumo Sushi and Bento.........................................343 5566 Price range - low Interchange 1, Sheikh Zayed Road Sushi .......................................................................317 2222 Price range - low Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bur Dubai Sushi Times............................................................391 0198 Price range - low Building 10, Dubai Media City, opposite the One&Only Royal Mirage Teppanyaki House................................................351 9999 Price range - medium Ramada Hotel, Bur Dubai Tokyo@the Towers...............................................330 0000 Price range - medium Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Yakitori House................................... ...................352 0900 Price range - medium Ascot Hotel, Bur Dubai Yo! Sushi ................................................................359 4579 BurJuman Shopping Mall, Bur Dubai Zuma ......................................................................425 5660 Price range - high Dubai International Finance Centre, Gate Village No. 6. MEDITERRANEAN az-u-r .....................................................................319 4000 The Harbour Hotel and Residence, Dubai Marina Opposite Dubai International Marine Club, Al Sufouh Finz ........................................................................368 5620 Price range - low China Court, Ibn Battuta Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road. Gozo Garden.........................................................282 3464 Price range - low Millennium Airport Hotel, Garhoud Olives .....................................................................399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh Sails.........................................................................262 5555 Price range - medium Crowne Plaza Dubai, Deira (formerly The Renaissance) Sketch .....................................................................227 0000 Price range - medium Metropolitan Palace Hotel, Deira MEXICAN/TEX-MEX El Paso ...................................................................349 3455 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeirah
Cactus Cantina .....................................................398 2274 Price range - low Rydges Plaza Hotel, Satwa Cactus Jacks..........................................................282 3464 Price range - low Millennium Airport Hotel, Garhoud Maria Bonita's Taco Shop...................................395 4454 Price range - low Umm Al Sheif Street, near Spinney's Centre, Umm Suqueim MONGOLIAN BARBECUE Rooftop Terrace ....................................................336 6000 Price range - low Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai MOROCCAN Marrakesh .............................................................343 8888 Price range - medium Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Samari ....................................................................345 4511 Price range - medium Al Mina Road, near Capitol Hotel, Bur Dubai Tagine .....................................................................399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage Hotel, Al Sufouh
NOODLE BARS Noodle House Price range - medium Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road .......330 0000 Madinat Souk, Madinat Jumeirah .........................366 8888 Wagamama ............................................................331 1111 Price range - medium Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Yum! .............................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira PERSIAN Al Borz ...................................................................331 8777 Price range - low Inside Al Durreh Tower, Bur Dubai Shabestan .....................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira
PIZZERIA Bacchus ..................................................................311 8000 Price range - low The Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
POLYNESIAN Trader Vics ............................................................331 1111 Price range - medium Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road
PUB GRUB Aussie Legends Bar and Grill ...........................398 2222 Price range - low Rydges Plaza Hotel, Satwa Biggles ...................................................................282 3464 Price range - low Millenium Airport Hotel, Garhoud Boston Bar ............................................................345 5888 Price range - low Jumeirah Rotana Hotel, Satwa Champions Sports Bar .......................................262 4444 Price range - low JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Chelsea Arms .......................................................207 1721 Price range - low Sheraton Dubai Creek, Deira Dubliners ..............................................................282 4040 Price range - low Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Fibber Magees .....................................................332 2400 Price range - low Saeed Tower No. 1, Sheikh Zayed Road Fox & Hounds.......................................................272 0000 Price range - low Marco Polo Hotel, Deira Harvester's .............................................................331 1111 Price range - low Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Irish Village ...........................................................282 4750 Price range - low Aviation Club, next to Tennis Stadium, Garhoud Jimmy Dix .............................................................336 6000 Movenpick Hotel, Bur Dubai Jules Bar ................................................................282 4040 Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Long's Bar .............................................................343 8000 Price range - low Towers Rotana Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road QD's ........................................................................295 6000 Price range - low Next to Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira Sherlock Holmes ...................................................351 9111 Price range - medium Arabian Courtyard Hotel, Bur Dubai The Pub ........................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira The Underground ................................................399 5000 Price range - low Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina
The Viceroy ......................................................397 7444 Price range - low Four Points Sheraton, Bur Dubai Waxy O'Connor's ...........................................352 0900 Price range - low The Ascot Hotel, Bank Street, Bur Dubai RUSSIAN Arbat Russian Club ........................................222 7111 Price range - medium Carlton Tower Hotel, Deira Russian Home .................................................334 6050 Price range - low Near Lamcy Plaza, Bur Dubai Troika ...............................................................352 0900 Price range - medium The Ascot Hotel, Bur Dubai
SEAFOOD Al Bandar ....................................................... 393 9001 Price range - low, Heritage Village, Deira Amwaj ............................................................ .343 8888 Price range - medium Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Beach Bar and Grill ..................................... 399 9999 Price range - medium The One&Only Royal Mirage,Al Sufouh Far East Seafood Market ..............................396 3888 Price range - medium Regent Palace Hotel, Bur Dubai Fish Bazaar ......................................................399 5000 Price range - medium Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Fish Market ........................................... 205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Mi Vida..............................................................399 5555 Price range - medium Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina Peppercrab .......................................................317 1234 Price range - medium Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bur Dubai Pierchic...............................................................366 8888 Price range - high Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Sammach...........................................................349 4140 Price range - low Beach Centre Shopping Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road Sea World..........................................................321 1500 Price range - medium Sheikh Zayed Road Seafood Market................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud............................................
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Trader Vics ............................................................366 5646 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim
The Dhow ..............................................................399 3333 Price range - high Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, Al Sufouh The Wharf .............................................................366 8888 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim SPANISH Al Hambra.............................................................366 8888 Price range - high Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim Seville's...................................................................324 7300 Price range - low Wafi Pyramids. Bur Dubai The Agency - Tapas Price range - medium Jumeirah Emirates Towers ....................................319 8780 Madinat Jumeirah...................................................366 8888
STEAKHOUSES AND GRILLS American Dream ..................................................393 4777 Price range - low Seashell Inn Hotel, Bur Dubai Entrecôte Cafe de Paris ...................................223 1000. Toujours Imitée, Jamais Egalée Khaleej Palace Hotel, Deira Grill Room.............................................................399 5533 Price range - medium Sheraton Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence Hunters Grill ........................................................399 4141 Price range - high The Westin Hotel, Al Sufouh JW's Steakhouse...................................................262 4444 Price range - high JW Marriott Hotel, Deira Legends Steakhouse.............................................295 6000 Price range - medium Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira M's ..........................................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud MJ’s Steakhouse...................................................366 8888 Price range - high Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah Palm Grill.....................................................205 7333/7444 Price range - medium Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Creek, Deira Rhodes Twenty10 .................................................399 5555 Price range - high Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort, Dubai Marina Rodeo Grill ............................................................282 0000 Price range - medium Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Garhoud
Ruth’s Chris Steak House ................................. 501 8666 Price range - medium The Monarch Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Shooters .................................................................883 6555 Price range - medium Jebel Ali International Shooting Club Terra Firma Steakhouse .................................... 701 1127 Price range - medium InterContinental, Dubai Festival City The Exchange Grill..............................................332 5555 Price range - high The Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road The Meat Company .............................................368 6040 Price range - medium Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqueim The Rib Room.......................................................330 0000 Price range - high Emirates Towers Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Western Steakhouse..............................................331 1111 Price range - high Crowne Plaza Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
THAI Beachcombers .......................................................348 0000 Price range - medium. Thai/Polynesian/International Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqueim Benjarong ..............................................................343 3333 Price range - medium Dusit Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road Blue Elephant........................................................282 0000 Price range - medium Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, Garhoud Fusion ..............................................................399 5555 Price range - medium, Thai/Malaysian/Indonesian Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort, Dubai Marina Indochine .........................................................317 2222 Price range - medium Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bur Dubai Silk Route .................................................. ....351 9111 Price range - medium Arabian Courtyard Hotel, Bur Dubai Sukhothai ........................................................282 4040 Price range - medium Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud Thai Bistro .......................................................346 1111 Price range - medium Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeirah Thai Connection............................... ..............352 0900 Price range - medium Ascot Hotel, Bur Dubai Thiptara ...........................................................428 7961 Price range - medium The Palace, The Old Town Dubai
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT; Flight Enquiries Service ...........................216 6666 Ticket Sales................................................216 6700 Lost and Found Baggage..........................216 2542
AIRLINES Aeroflot ......................................................222 2245 Air India.....................................................227 6787 Alitalia........................................................224 2256 American Airlines .....................................393 5792 British Airways..........................................307 5555 Cathay Pacific ...........................................295 0400 Czech Airlines ...........................................295 9502 Emirates.....................................................214 4444 Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi ..............(02) 505 8000 Gulf Air ......................................................271 3222 Indian Airlines...........................................221 6789 Japan Airlines............................................228 1777 KLM...........................................................319 3777 Korean Airlines .........................................337 7119 Kuwait Airways.........................................228 1106 Lufthansa...................................................343 2121 Malaysia Airlines ......................................397 0250 Saudi Arabian Airlines .............................295 7747 Singapore Airlines.....................................223 2300 South African Airways .............................397 0766 Swiss International Airlines .....................294 5051 Thai Airways .............................................268 1702 United Airlines ..........................................316 6942
BEAUTY
BEAUTY SALONS Aroushi Beauty Salon ...............................336 2794 Dalouk Beauty Salon (Shj Ladies Club) 06 565 5511 Essential Image Salon, Mazaya Centre ....343 3321 Franck Provost Marina Walk, Dubai Marina .......................362 9865 Dubai World Convention Centre ................331 0801 Gold Salon........................321 1423 / 050 625 0288 Lamcy Hair & Beauty Salon....................335 1101 Marie France Beauty Salon .....................344 8739 Reflection Beauty Care ..........394 4595 / 394 9906 SOS Beauty Salon .....................................349 1144 The Hair Corridor, Jumeirah ..................394 5622 The Nail Spa Dubai Mall ................................................. 339 9078 The Aviation Club ...................................... 282 1617 Ibn Battuta Mall ......................................... 368 5070 Mercato ...................................................... 349 7766
COSMETIC SURGERY Al Rustom's skin and laser clinic ............349 8800 Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery .....................395 3033 Al Zahra Private Hospital, Sharjah...06 561 9999 Belhoul European Hospital......................345 4000 CosmeSurge Dubai ...................................344 5915 Dr. Dany Kayle..........................................344 0300 Dr. Farhat Bokhari ...................................331 7544 Dr. Imran Tahir.........................................344 2020 Medical International Centre Dr. Jaffer Khan............................................349 9100
SPAS Al Assalla Spa Jumeirah Beach Road Dubai Ladies Club ......................................349 9922 Angsana Spa Dubai Marina ..............................................368 4356 Assawan Spa Burj Al Arab................................................301 7338 Cleopatra's Spa Wafi Pyramids.............................................324 0000 Natural Elements Spa & Fitness Le Meridien Dubai......................................702 2430 One&Only Spa ........................................ 399 9999 One&Only Royal Mirage Hotel, Al Sufouh Ritz Carlton Spa .......................................399 4000 SensAsia Spa The Village Mall .........................................349 8850 Six Senses Spa Madinat Jumeirah .......................................366 6808 Sole Senses Spa Le Meridien Mina Seyahi .................... .....399 3333 Taj Palace Hotel Spa.................................223 2222 The Haven Depilex Jumeirah......................................................345 6770 Timeless Spa .............................................319 4000 JW Marriott Harbour Hotel, Dubai Marina Opposite Dubai International Marine Club The Spa Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa .......................814 5810 Willow Stream Spa The Fairmont Dubai....................................311 8800
CAR & LIMO RENTAL CAR RENTAL Autoplus Car Rental ............................... 339 5900 Autolease....................................................282 6565 Avis .............................................................295 7121 Budget ........................................................295 6667 Connection Chauffeur ............................ 332 8779 www.RentACarUAE.com Diamond Lease .........................................343 4330 Dream Cars Rental ...................................398 7345
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
AIRPORT & AIRLINES
Eurodrive..........................800 044 0092 (Toll Free) Eurostar .....................................................266 1117 Hertz...........................................................282 4422 Patriot car rental www.patriotuae.com 224 4244 Sphinx rent-a-car (24H) ...296 5556, 050 737 7449 Thrifty ........................................................224 5404 United Car Rentals ...................................285 7777
LIMOUSINE HIRE Autoplus Limo ......................................... 339 5400 Connection Chauffeur .............................332 8779 www.LimoUAE.com Dubai Exotic Limo ...................................286 8635 Premier Limousines ..................................282 3333 Prime Limousines.................................... 332 4141 Royal leasing and rent-a-car. ...................297 5111 Sphinx rent-a-car (24H)...296 5556, 050 737 7449
EMBASSIES EMBASSIES, CONSULATES, HIGH COMMISSIONS AND LEGATIONS American Consulate..................................311 6000 Australian Consulate ................................321 2444 British Embassy ........................................397 1070 Canadian Consulate..................................314 5555 Chinese Embassy ......................................344 8032 Danish Consulate ......................................222 7699 French Consulate ......................................332 9040 German Consulate ....................................397 2333 Indian Consulate.......................................397 1222 Italian Consulate .......................................331 4167 Japanese Consulate...................................331 9191 Netherlands Consulate .............................352 8700 New Zealand Consulate............................331 7500 Norwegian Consulate................................353 3833 Pakistan Consulate ...................................397 0412 Swedish Consulate ....................................345 7716 Thailand Consulate ................................. 349 2863
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOGRAPHY
Sandra Metaxas .......................................050 652 3248 Portrait weddings and events photographer
HEALTH & MEDICAL
CLINICS & DOCTORS
Aesthetic Care Centre ..............................266 8878 Al Amal Clinics .........................................332 9833 Al Bayan Medical Centre.........................271 9008 Al Borj Medical Centre ............................321 2220 Al Diyafa Modern Medical Centre .........345 4945 Al Rigga Medical Centre..........................297 7447 Apollo Medical Centre .............................337 9040 Dubai London Clinic ................................344 6663 Dubai Medical Group...............................262 8887 Emirates Diagnostic Clinic ......................331 5155 Euro Gulf Medical Centre .......................331 3544 European Medical Centre ........................344 8840 General Medical Centre ...........................349 5959 Gulf American Clinic................................344 2050 Gulf Medical Centre .................................3622 929 Health Care Medical Centre....................344 5550 Jebel Ali Clinic ..........................................884 6489 Jumeirah Family Clinic............................344 8844 Magrabi Eye and Ear Centre ..................262 0001 Manchester Clinic .....................................344 0300 Mayo Clinic ...............................................362 2900 Medilink Clinic..........................................344 7711 New Emirates Medical Centre.................228 3555 Plastic Surgery Clinic ...............................209 6495 Prime Medical Centre (Deira) .................272 0720 Singhania Children's Clinic .....................334 9779 COSMETIC DENTISTRY
The Dental SPA, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Amer, DDS-Canada ..............................395 2005 24 hour emergency ..............................050 563 0611 DENTAL CLINICS
Abrahim Arab Dental Surgery Al Rigga Street, Deira ................................227 8827 Al Zahra Medical Centre Sheikh Zayed Road.....................................331 5000 Amal Specialised Dental Clinic Crowne Plaza, Sheikh Zayed Road ............331 6363 American Dental Clinic Jumeirah Beach Road .................................344 0668
PHARMACIES
Al Wasl Road, Satwa ..................................342 1318
Abeer Pharmacy
Dental Art Clinic
Al Nakheel Road, Deira..............................227 3411
Jumeirah Beach Road, near HSBC.............395 2524
Ahlam Pharmacy
German Dental Clinic
Nr. Diplomat Hotel, Deira ..........................272 0265
Sheikh Zayed Road.....................................332 4499
Al Afia Pharmacy
Kumar Medical Centre Nasser Square, Deira ..................................227 2576
Astoria Hotel Road, Deira ..........................352 1443
Dr. Michael's Dental Clinic
Nr. Al Baraha Hospital ...............................272 7252
Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah ............................349 5900
Al Corniche Pharmacy
Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqueim ..................394 9433
Beach Centre,
Emergency service available.
Jumeirah Beach Road .................................344 7220
Drs. Nicolas & Asp Dental Centre Jumeirah Beach Road .................................394 7777 Swedish Dental Clinic Al Maktoum Street, Deira ..........................223 1297 The Dental SPA, Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Dr. Amer, DDS-Canada ..............................395 2005 24 hour emergency ..............................050 563 0611 HOSPITALS
American Hospital ....................................336 7777 Al Amal Hospital.......................................344 4010 Al Bahara Hospital ...................................271 0000 Al Maktoum Hospital ...............................222 1211 Al Wasl Hospital........................................324 1111 Al Zahra Hospital .....................................331 5000 Belhoul Hospital........................................273 3333 Belhoul European Hospital......................345 4000 Dubai Hospital ..........................................271 4444 Emirates Hospital .....................................349 6666 German Medical Center ..........................362 2929 International Private Hospital.................221 2484 Iranian Hospital ........................................344 0250 Neuro Spinal Hospital ..............................342 0000 New Medical Centre Hospital..................295 6576 Rashid Hospital.........................................337 4000 Welcare Hospital .......................................282 7788 OPTICAL SPECIALISTS
British Lasik and Cosmetic Surgery Centre ......... ....................................................................344 2020 Gulf Eye Centre ........................................329 1977 International Medical Centre ..................344 1142 International Private Hospital.................221 2484
Al Baraha Pharmacy
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
British Dental Clinic
AAA Home Group ....................................368 9999 Arabian Escapes........................................325 6550 Better Homes ........................................... 344 7714 www.bhomes.com Desert Homes.............................................321 0110 Dubai Property Centre.............................3517 466 www.dubaipropertycentre.com Dubai Waterfront Properties.................. 321 3344 www.dwp.ae Group Seven Properties LLC ..................366 3377 www.group7properties.com Gulf Oasis ..................................................397 5500 Immobiliare Azzurra - Assistenza Italiani www.immobiliaredubai.com ................050 755 4821 Indus Real Estate ......................................398 8352 Jamal Al Habtoor Real Estate Est. .........363 9800 email: info@uaepropertycentre.com Landmark Properties ..............................331 6161 www.landmark-dubai.com Leman Real Estate ...................................224 9060 Ocean Front ..............................................332 6877 www.oceanfrontdubai.com Ocean View ................................................343 3256 www.oceanviewdubai.com Oryx Real Estate .......................................331 7183 www.oryxrealestate.com Priority Real Estate .................................343 4433 www.prioritydubai.com Properties in Dubai...................................221 1993 www.propertiesindubai.com
Seven Valleys Real Estate ..................050 658 2432 info@7vre.com, www.7vre.com ..........050 626 9908 The Real Estate Specialists ......................331 2662
RELOCATION SPECIALISTS ECHO - XPATS ........................................323 7688 www.echo-xpats.com Expat Relocations .....................................368 9826 One Stop Business Centre........................343 1433 The Relocation Specialists........................331 2662 Writer Relocations ................................... 884 9865
SHOPPING BurJuman Centre Bur Dubai ..................................................352 0222 Deira City Centre Deira ......................................................... 295 1010 Dubai Festival City Dubai Creek, Deira ....................................232 5444 Dubai Mall Downturn Burj Khalifa .................. 800 38224 6255 Dubai Outlet Mall Dubailand ...................................................367 9600 Jumeirah Plaza..........................................349 7111 Jumeirah Beach Road, near Jumeirah Mosque Lamcy Plaza Oud Metha ..................................................335 9999 Latas Handicrafts Al Rais Centre ............................................359 2267 Souk Madinat Jumeirah .............................368 6216 Central Souk (Blue Souk) Sharjah .......06-572 3842 Mazaya Centre Sheikh Zayed Road, near Interchange 1.....343 8333 Mall of the Emirates Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road.............341 4747 Mercato Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah ................344 4161 Palm Strip Jumeirah Beach Road .................................346 1462 Reef Mall Salahuddin Street, Deira .............................224 2240 Souk Madinat Jumeirah Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqueim.......366 8888 Spinney's Centre Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah .............................394 1657
Town Centre Jumeirah Beach Road .................................344 0111 Village Mall Jumeirah Beach Road.................................344 7714
TAILOR SHOPS Profile Tailoring ........................................332 5665 Fine men’s tailoring Royal Fashion............................................396 8282 Tailoring & Textiles Pyramid Bldg, opposite BurJuman
TOUR OPERATORS Adventure Leisure Tourism ................... 271 4847 Arabian Adventures..................................303 4888 Arabian Desert Tours ...............................268 2880 Arabian Nights .........................................321 6565 Atlanta Travels and Tours ......................273 8533 Balloon Adventures...................................273 8585 Butterfly Tourism .....................................268 8601 Creekside Leisure......................................336 8406 Danat Dubai Cruises.................................351 1117 Desert Rangers ..........................................357 2233 Dubai Leisure Holidays ...........................346 7878 info@dubaileisureholidays.com East Adventure Tours ...............................355 5677 Excite Tourism .........................................268 7305 Falcon Oasis Tourism LLC .................... 351 9690 Gulf Ventures.............................................209 5608 Hormuz Tourism .......................................228 0668 Net Tours....................................................266 6655 Oasis Palm Tourism..................................262 9993 Orient Tours ..............................................282 8238 Planet Travel Tours...................................282 2199 Royal Sands Tourism................................397 9995 Summertime Marine ................................331 1483 Sunflower Tours ........................................334 5554 SNTTA Travel & Tours ............................282 9000 The Big Bus Company .............................324 4187 Yahoo Tours LLC .....................................297 1213
AED 100 OFF for 2
Discount Coupons
Offer valid till 31st December 2012 Presentation of the coupon is required to avail the offer. Offer is applicable on purchasing two general admission tickets. Offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotion. Offer is not valid during UAE Public holidays. Fridays & Public holidays are family days. Park timings: For September - December: Park Timings 10:00 am -6:00pm Park Timings may change without prior notice. Website: www.dreamlanduae.com, Tel No : 06 768 1888
What better way to beat the heat than at Dreamland Aqua Park, the largest family water park of its kind in the region. With 250,000 sq.m of landscaped gardens, over 30 thrilling rides, crazy slides, a mini pet land, overnight camping, a tennis court, and all your favourite restaurants, it is the perfect retreat for the entire family. www.dreamlanduae.com 10% Discount for min. 6 persons or above for all the tours
10% Discount for min. 6 persons or above for all the tours
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
Valid until 31st December 2012
Valid until 31st December 2012
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 04 268 8601/ 050 981 7944
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 04 268 8601/ 050 981 7944
• Ferrari World Tour
• Burj Khalifa Tour
• Ferrari World Tour
• Burj Khalifa Tour
• Hatta Wadi Safari
• Helicopter Fun Ride
• Hatta Wadi Safari
• Helicopter Fun Ride
• Wild Wadi Tour
• Deep Sea Fishing
• Wild Wadi Tour
• Deep Sea Fishing
• Dolphin Show
• Musandam Oman Tour
• Dolphin Show
• Musandam Oman Tour
info@butterflytourism.ae Get 25% off on show tickets www.butterflytourism.ae Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
info@butterflytourism.ae Get 25% off on show tickets www.butterflytourism.ae Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
Valid for only one person until 31st December 2012
Valid for only one person until 31st December 2012
Tel: 04 3369773
Tel: 04 3369773
Located at Creekside Park, Gate 1 For show timings please visit our website www.dubaidolphinarium.ae Email: info@dubaidolphinarium.ae Tel: 04 3369773
Located at Creekside Park, Gate 1 For show timings please visit our website www.dubaidolphinarium.ae Email: info@dubaidolphinarium.ae Tel: 04 3369773
All entrants must pay AED 5 entry fee to Creek Park, this charge is made by Dubai Municipality and Book 3isHours & Get 1 Hour FREE non-negotiable. Valid for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday @ 11am Saturday, 11am and 3pm
All entrants must pay AED 5 entry fee to Creek Park, this charge is made by Dubai Municipality and Book 3isHours & Get 1 Hour FREE non-negotiable. Valid for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday @ 11am Saturday, 11am and 3pm
Disclaimer: Subject to terms Valid until 31st December 2012 and conditions
24hrs - Mobile: +971 50 695 7160 Tel: 04-286 8635 Fax: 08 448 0460
Disclaimer: Subject to terms Valid until 31st December 2012 and conditions
24hrs - Mobile: +971 50 695 7160 Tel: 04-286 8635 Fax: 08 448 0460
Offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotion. Offer is not valid during UAE Public holidays. Fridays & Public holidays are family days. Park timings: For September - December: Park Timings 10:00 am -6:00pm Park Timings may change without prior notice. Website: www.dreamlanduae.com, Tel No : 06 768 1888
What better way to beat the heat than at Dreamland Aqua Park, the largest family water park of its kind in the region. With 250,000 sq.m of landscaped gardens, over 30 thrilling rides, crazy slides, a mini pet land, overnight camping, a tennis court, and all your favourite restaurants, it is the perfect retreat for the entire family. www.dreamlanduae.com 10% Discount for min. 6 persons or above for all the tours Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions Valid until 31st December 2012
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 04 268 8601/ 050 981 7944
Disclaimer: Please produce your Discover Dubai Discount Coupon upon making a reservation or booking, or prior to commencement of a transaction with the respective outlet. Offers are only applicable upon presentation of original Discover Dubai Discount Coupons, and are subject to availability. Terms and conditions may apply and may be subject to change. Discover Dubai Discount Coupons may not be valid with other discounts or offers unless 10% Discount for min. 6 persons or above for all the tours specified and can not be exchanged for cash. In the event of an establishment not honouring a coupon, Valid until 31st December 2012 Discover Dubai will not be held liable, however will Opening hours: hrs reservation endeavor to24secure compliance. Tel: 04 268 8601/ 050 981 7944
• Ferrari World Tour
• Burj Khalifa Tour
• Ferrari World Tour
• Burj Khalifa Tour
• Hatta Wadi Safari
• Helicopter Fun Ride
• Hatta Wadi Safari
• Helicopter Fun Ride
• Wild Wadi Tour
• Deep Sea Fishing
• Wild Wadi Tour
• Deep Sea Fishing
• Dolphin Show
• Musandam Oman Tour
• Dolphin Show
• Musandam Oman Tour
info@butterflytourism.ae Get 25% off on show tickets www.butterflytourism.ae
info@butterflytourism.ae Get 25% off on show tickets www.butterflytourism.ae Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
Valid for only one person until 31st December 2012
Valid for only one person until 31st December 2012
Tel: 04 3369773
Tel: 04 3369773
Located at Creekside Park, Gate 1 For show timings please visit our website www.dubaidolphinarium.ae Email: info@dubaidolphinarium.ae Tel: 04 3369773
Located at Creekside Park, Gate 1 For show timings please visit our website www.dubaidolphinarium.ae Email: info@dubaidolphinarium.ae Tel: 04 3369773
All entrants must pay AED 5 entry fee to Creek Park, this charge is made by Dubai Municipality and Book 3 is Hours & Get 1 Hour FREE non-negotiable. Valid for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday @ 11am Saturday, 11am and 3pm
All entrants must pay AED 5 entry fee to Creek Park, this charge is made by Dubai Municipality and Book 3 Hours & Get 1 Hour FREE is non-negotiable. Valid for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday @ 11am Saturday, 11am and 3pm
Disclaimer: to 2012 terms and conditions Valid until 31stSubject December
24hrs - Mobile: +971 50 695 7160 Tel: 04-286 8635 Fax: 08 448 0460
Valid until 31st December 2012 and conditions Disclaimer: Subject to terms
24hrs - Mobile: +971 50 695 7160 Tel: 04-286 8635 Fax: 08 448 0460
Weddings, Proms, Birthdays, City Tours, Business Meetings, Airport Transfers, Night Tours, Burjuman Center for shopping sprees
Weddings, Proms, Birthdays, City Tours, Business Meetings, Airport Transfers, Night Tours, Burjuman Center for shopping sprees
www.dubaiexoticlimo.com
www.dubaiexoticlimo.com
Life. Refreshed. Get AED 30 off on your ticket to Wild Wadi!
Life. Refreshed. Get AED 30 off on your ticket to Wild Wadi!
Valid until 31st December 2012
Valid until 31st December 2012
Tel.: +971-4-3484444
Tel.: +971-4-3484444
Discover your inner child over and over again when going on the master blaster - an exhilarating water roller-coaster ride as you go up and down inter-connecting slides and our latest additions Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj push thrill seekers’ to the limit. What’s more, the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders give you a whole new perspective on board sports as you ride a thin sheet of shooting water.
Discover your inner child over and over again when going on the master blaster - an exhilarating water roller-coaster ride as you go up and down inter-connecting slides and our latest additions Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj push thrill seekers’ to the limit. What’s more, the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders give you a whole new perspective on board sports as you ride a thin sheet of shooting water.
Younger guests can play endlessly in slides, games, water cannons and a whole lot more in Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon. Breaker’s Bay Wave Pool and Juha’s Journey Lazy River are also perfect for fun quality time for the whole family.
Younger guests can play endlessly in slides, games, water cannons and a whole lot more in Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon. Breaker’s Bay Wave Pool and Juha’s Journey Lazy River are also perfect for fun quality time for the whole family.
Valid for only person until 31st December 2012 Terms andone conditions:
Valid for only person until 31st December 2012 Terms andone conditions:
• Valid for one (1) admission only • Valid on All-Day General Admission only • Not valid with any other promotion • Valid only if redeemed at Wild Wadi
10% DISCOUNT on selected tours (Min 6 pax)
• Valid for one (1) admission only • Valid on All-Day General Admission only • Not valid with any other promotion • Valid only if redeemed at Wild Wadi
10% DISCOUNT on selected tours (Min 6 pax)
Valid until 31st December 2012
Valid until 31st December 2012
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 055-7361213
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 055-7361213
• Abu Dhabi Tour
• Abu Dhabi Tour
• Dubai City Tour
• Dubai City Tour
• Al Ain Oasis Adventure
• Al Ain Oasis Adventure
24 hours reservations Email: shahidrfk@hotmail.com Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
24 hours reservations 20% off on Chauffeur Drive Email: shahidrfk@hotmail.com Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions Valid until 31st December 2012
Opening hours: 24/7 Operations
Tel: 600 54 8887 Dubai Limousine Office +971 4 297 0627 Abu Dhabi Limousine Office +971 2 628 1118 www.germanrac.com, limo.dxb@germanrac.com
Valid until 31st December 2012
Valid until 31st December 2012
Tel.: +971-4-3484444
Tel.: +971-4-3484444
Discover your inner child over and over again when going on the master blaster - an exhilarating water roller-coaster ride as you go up and down inter-connecting slides and our latest additions Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj push thrill seekers’ to the limit. What’s more, the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders give you a whole new perspective on board sports as you ride a thin sheet of shooting water.
Discover your inner child over and over again when going on the master blaster - an exhilarating water roller-coaster ride as you go up and down inter-connecting slides and our latest additions Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj push thrill seekers’ to the limit. What’s more, the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders give you a whole new perspective on board sports as you ride a thin sheet of shooting water.
Younger guests can play endlessly in slides, games, water cannons and a whole lot more in Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon. Breaker’s Bay Wave Pool and Juha’s Journey Lazy River are also perfect for fun quality time for the whole family.
Younger guests can play endlessly in slides, games, water cannons and a whole lot more in Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon. Breaker’s Bay Wave Pool and Juha’s Journey Lazy River are also perfect for fun quality time for the whole family.
Terms and conditions:
• Valid forone oneperson (1) admission only Valid for only until 31st December 2012
• Valid on All-Day General Admission only • Not valid with any other promotion • Valid only if redeemed at Wild Wadi
10% DISCOUNT on selected tours (Min 6 pax)
Terms and conditions:
• Valid for one (1) admission Valid for only one person until 31stonly December 2012 • Valid on All-Day General Admission only • Not valid with any other promotion • Valid only if redeemed at Wild Wadi
10% DISCOUNT on selected tours (Min 6 pax)
Valid until 31st December 2012
Valid until 31st December 2012
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 055-7361213
Opening hours: 24 hrs reservation Tel: 055-7361213
• Abu Dhabi Tour
• Abu Dhabi Tour
• Dubai City Tour
• Dubai City Tour
• Al Ain Oasis Adventure
• Al Ain Oasis Adventure
24 hours reservations 20% off on Chauffeur Drive Email: shahidrfk@hotmail.com Disclaimer: to2012 terms Valid until 31st Subject December
and conditions
Opening hours: 24/7 Operations
Tel: 600 54 8887 Dubai Limousine Office +971 4 297 0627 Abu Dhabi Limousine Office +971 2 628 1118 www.germanrac.com, limo.dxb@germanrac.com
Please call or email us on limo.dxb@germanrac.com for more details
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions This offer is for one month only.
24 hours reservations Email: shahidrfk@hotmail.com Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
15% off any purchase Valid until 31st December 2012
Saude Trading, Ground Floor, Jumeirah Plaza Jumeirah Beach Road, 04 349 4920 Ramesses Cafe, next to Cleopatra’s Spa Wafi City, 04 324 0000 For more details contact: Dianne Penny - Authorised Distributor 050 659 9189
15% off any purchase Valid until 31st December 2012
Saude Trading, Ground Floor, Jumeirah Plaza Jumeirah Beach Road, 04 349 4920 Ramesses Cafe, next to Cleopatra’s Spa Wafi City, 04 324 0000 For more details contact: Dianne Penny - Authorised Distributor 050 659 9189
Notes Please call for more details
Please call for more details
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
dianne@desertdiamondsco.com www.desertdiamondsco.com
dianne@desertdiamondsco.com www.desertdiamondsco.com
Jumeirah Beach Road, 04 349 4920 Ramesses Cafe, next to Cleopatra’s Spa Wafi City, 04 324 0000 For more details contact: Dianne Penny - Authorised Distributor 050 659 9189
Jumeirah Beach Road, 04 349 4920 Ramesses Cafe, next to Cleopatra’s Spa Wafi City, 04 324 0000 For more details contact: Dianne Penny - Authorised Distributor 050 659 9189
Please call for more details
Please call for more details
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
Disclaimer: Subject to terms and conditions
dianne@desertdiamondsco.com www.desertdiamondsco.com
dianne@desertdiamondsco.com www.desertdiamondsco.com
Notes
Notes
Amazing combo deals with EXCI TE Tourism - 04 357 2424
Notes