Destination Dubai by Noel Miller

SUMMER 2012 Destination Dubai 1

Welcome to Dubai

photograph by DONNELL GUMIRAN 2 Destination Dubai

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lett er f rom t he d irec t or

FEELING GOOD DUBAI Dubai never ceases to inspire and exhilarate visitors. Over the years, many notable people have been mesmerized by this spectacular city; we hope to add you to the list. The attraction of Dubai is a combination of many different things: cultural diversity and tolerance, architectural innovation, sun and lifestyle, to name a few. Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned visitor, we will show you new places to go, sights to see, and help you create memories that will last a lifetime. You will discover one thing on this Arabian adventure; Dubai is unlike any other place in the world! We have produced this first edition of Destination Dubai to welcome and introduce you to the magic and splendour of this spectacular city. Dubai boasts some of the finest shopping malls in the world. The impressive Burj Khalifa is the tallest building on earth, and is just one of Dubai’s many icons. Hidden among the futuristic towers and flashing lights, there is a chance to absorb elements of Arabic culture in one of the region’s most open environments. Start exploring these destinations in our Down Town section (page 32). You must make the time to see the citiy’s architecture, which is a modern museum in itself. A trip to Dubai would not be complete without a visit to Palm Jumeirah; the man-made island is yet another iconic feature of Dubai. Situated on this luxurious island is the world-famous Atlantis Hotel, which in a short few years has hosted some of the world’s top dignitaries, sportsmen and women as well as Hollywood and Bollywood superstars. It is one place you must see in Dubai. Art lovers can now be part of the emerging art scene in Dubai, with new galleries opening across the city. Al Barsha, Downtown Dubai and DIFC (Dubai International Financial City) are all locations that showcase the creativity of local and international artists. Helen Abbas is one of the artists we have chosen to focus on in this guide. Her work is contemporary, colourful, and her bold use of Arabic calligraphy is amazing. Helen’s energy, creativity and enthusiasm in her work are without a doubt worth checking out!. The galleries section (page 120) is where you can start your artistic journey. The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Festival City, Burjuman, and Ibn Battuta are Dubai’s megamalls with millions of square feet for you to embark on a shopping paradise. You’ll find top designer brands, high street labels, cafés, bars, restaurants, and everything in between under one roof. Mall of the Emirates is renowned internationally for its indoor ski park – a must see – while The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest mall, with endless activities for the children. Keep them entertained at Kidszania or the aquarium. For teenagers, drop them off at the ice-rink while you stroll through this spectacular shopping 4 Destination Dubai

Hidden among the futurist towers and flashing lights, there is a chance to absorb elements of Arabic cultures in one of the region’s most open environments.

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le tt e r f ro m t h e d i r ec t or

Living It is believed that the migration in the nineteenth century of Sunni merchants from southern Iran, introduced the tradition of wind towers to the region. In the humidity and hot weather of the Gulf, the towers are adequate for winter and summer living;they provide ventilation, freshness, and are usually built one or two storeys high.

Beauty An important part of Emirati heritage and culture; falconry has been practised in the UAE for centuries. Originally, falcons were used for hunting. Dubai offers flying displays, visits, and a great opportunity to get near these beautiful creatures.

Light The traditional lantern and its influence can be found across Dubai. It was originally used to light the procession, which viewed the moon to announce the beginning of the holy month and the end of each day’s fast. Fasting started when the lanterns were extinguished just before dawn; in the past they were lit with candles.

destination. If you are more adventurous and outgoing, we highly recommend some dune bashing and camel riding excursions in the desert. With most tour companies, the trip starts at 3.00pm so you can witness sunset over the beautiful desert landscape. The trip also includes a visit to Bedouinstyle campsites, where you can sample a barbeque buffet with Arabic coffee, dates, drinks, and shisha, whilst lounging on cushions as you’re being entertained by exotic belly dancers. Traditional Arabic delicacies from all over the region are available here, alongside more than 3,000 restaurants offering international cuisines. Our talented chefs are known for their culinary creativity and boast year round access to an abundance of local seafood, free-range meats, and organic produce. Our restaurant listing (page 110) will be your guide to tasting your way around Dubai. Bon Appétit! We invite you to Destination Dubai, to guide you around Dubai. You may find it hard to leave but we know you will be back. Enjoy your stay! noel miller | director

Explore The Dubai desert is only 40 minutes away from some of the most stunning architectural masterpieces in the world. This is one of Dubai’s most visited attractions. You will witness the array of golden sands and marvel at the shapes nature has created. 6 Destination Dubai

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CONTENTS

104

138

THE ESSENCE OF DUBAI 16 EXPERIENCE THIS Just a few places we feel you

ALL ABOUT JBR A GUIDE AROUND THE WALK Dubai is a city which is starting to be defined by selective areas.

should see during your stay here

in Dubai.

58 THE BEAUTIFUL AND MYSTICAL SECRETS OF HENNA

26 THE SOUK OLD TRADITIONS SAME METHODS

48 FOOD HAS NO BORDERS THE BEST IN ARABIC CUISINE

Explore the wonders of one of

Suzanne Hussaini introduces you

the oldest markets in the region.

to the taste, flavours, colours,food

and culinary pleasures that await

THE BEST OF DOWNTOWN AND ITS HOTSPOTS

you here.

Photographer Noel Miller

RAMADAN THE MOST IMPORTANT DATE IN THE ISLAMIC WORLD

We look at the driving forces that

make up this very important time

of the year.

takes us on a stunning visual

journey and shows you what you

can expect to see in

Downtown Dubai.

Dubai has built a city of

54 ANAS BUKHASH GETS THE Q&A TREATMENT

towering high rises and

architectural intrigue.

Is Dubai the new city of light?

36 BRIGHT LIGHTS REVEALED

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A look at the most creative aspect

of this ancient art.

AN ARABIC ARTIST MAKING HER LIVING IN DUBAI

Helen Abbas gives us an insight

into what inspires her, her

influences and Arabic abstract art.

THE MUSICAL INVASION

Dubai has now become a major

destination for the world’s most

famous musical acts.

88 YOUR SHOPPING ADVENTURE

Do some serious retail therapy at

Dubai’s best shopping

Anas gives us a personal insight

destinations; from local shops

into Emirati Culture,and his views

and boutiques to flagship brands.

on what makes Dubai so special.

You’ll find everything you need.

104 HEALTH SALONS & SPAS A guide to massage, facials,

salon services, health and the

ultimate in where to get primed,

pampered and spoilt.

110 RESTAURANTS SELECT YOUR CHOICE Treat your taste buds to the city’s

best restaurants, with a variety of

cuisines from around the world.

116 ENTERTAINMENT BARS & NIGHTCLUBS

For the night angels that love live

music, dancing, lounge bars and

the city’s best nightspots.

120 ART & GALLERIES

122 FROM SKI DIVING to snowboarding

We show you where you should

be for that little bit of excitment

and that adrenalin rush.

130 BOOKS ELECTRONICS & MUSIC Home entertainment, books,

music where to get them and

what to get.

138 GOLF IN THE CITY

We introduce you too the best

golfing fairways where you will

be truly spoilt for choice.

140 EAST OR WEST OUR TIPS YOUR CHOICE

art by today’s up and coming

artists from around the world and

artists based right here in Dubai.

Purchase, view or admire. See

East or west your destination our tips. Dubai is a gateway to the most exotic adventures and the most interesting locations around the world. Destination Dubai 9

DESTINATION DUBAI Your definitive guestbook PUBLISHER Limited Edition Productions

Fatima Hadi

Advertising Manager Jessica Edwards EDITOR Taghred Chandab COPY EDITOR Danielle Simpson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kerry Baggott, Georgie Vassy, Ben Jacobs, Taghred Chandab

RESEARCH Mirjana Konatar DESIGN DIRECTOR Noel Miller

1,234,567 likes and counting.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Noel Miller, Daniel Cheong, Nihal Akmal Al Hussainy, Fatima Hadi Andrew Marminc, Ivana Maglione, Donnell Gumiran, Bjorn Moeman Gary Schmid, Andrew Cotterill, Peter Richweisz, Sue Krimeed FEATURES Helen Abbas, Suzanna Hussaini

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PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Noel Miller GRAPHIC DESIGNER Liju Augustine

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ON LINE DIRECTOR Donald Thomas PRODUCTION Print Outs

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OPERATIONS MANAGER Neil Dias, Print Outs PRINTED BY Atlas Printing Press PRODUCED Destination Dubai Your Definitive Guestbook is copyright and a trademark of Limited Edition Productions, PO Box 29588, Dubai. For additional orders call: 050 684 1832 All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any party for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors or omissions therin. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees so indemnity the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement. Printed in the UAE. Photographs Courtesy of www.shutterstock.com unless indicated.

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C O N TR I B U TORS

Nihal Akmal Al Hussainy Nihal, who was born in Cairo and grew up in Dubai, is a marketing and communications consultant. She is passionate about all forms of arts ranging from film, dance, music, theatre, multimedia to even naturally existing art in a tree. Nihal has a unique eye for photography that she never really got to practise until she joined a photographic expedition to India. She is influenced by an abstract contemporary touch. You will experience both the extremes of the classical and not so classical worlds in her work, even though so distinct, all the pieces share a common inspiration of simplicity and minimalism.

Daniel Cheong

DESTINATION

Donnell Gumiran Donnell Cablas Gumiran is an award winning photographer and art director based in Dubai, UAE. His love of the visual arts led him into the world of photography at a young age, and this naturally developed into a passion for photography and graphic design. His genuine love of capturing the emotions of people’s lives make Donnell one of the most successful photographers in the UAE. Donnell’s mission is to pass on his knowledge to young co-photographers. “Photography is a wonderful and mysterious tool” His work has landed him exposure internationally, and to date he has had both local and internationally published material.

Ivana Maglione

Taghred Chandab

Ivana was born in Italy and is based in Dubai. Her two biggest passions in life are travel and photography, visiting more than 60 countries across all the continents, encountering many fascinating cultures and beautiful places. Her ability to connect with her subjects and the almost instantaneous rapport she creates is evident in her images. She wants her subjects to feel at ease with her and keep true to themselves, unchanged by the presence of her and the camera. Originally from Italy Ivana co-founded Photography Ect, teaches workshops on digital photography and is involved in organizing photographic expeditions to various countries worldwide.

Taghred has worked on many sports and entertainment events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including: the 2010 FCWC; 2009 FINA Open Water Swimming World Cup, and the 2009 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup (Asian Q). Taghred is currently promoting her latest children’s book, The Perfect Flower Girl. On sale internationally in June 2012.

SUMMER 2012

Daniel was born in Mauritius and is of Chinese descent. His job in the telecommunications industry allows him to work in many countries. Based in Dubai, this budding and passionate photographer became serious about it when he bought his first DSLR, in Singapore, in 2006. He then learned and perfected the technique of digital blending, which consists of manually blending multiple bracketed exposures, in order to obtain the maximum dynamic range. His main photographic interests are seascapes, cityscapes, especially at the blue hour, and also urban decay. Recently, he went out of his comfort zone, trying portraiture and modelling.

DESTINATION DUBAI YOUR DIFINITIVE GUESTBOOK

Destination Dubai, the definitive guestbook, embraces design, elegance and creative features along with stunning photography to assist the tourist in getting the most out of Dubai. Editions are printed in hardback to a large format and distributed in both summer and winter to four and five star hotels, serviced apartments, airport executive lounges, art galleries and trade events across Dubai.

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Editorial features

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Andrew Cotterill Andrew Cotterill is a true rarity, a photographer whose unique output is defined not by his own ego but by a genuine passion for, and swiftly engendered affinity with his subject matter. His work for Q, Spin, Sony Style, NME, Word, Big Issue and Dazed & Confused has taken him from court photographer of the mid-90s drum’n’bass explosion to the expert eye on Jamaica’s dancehall renaissance and beyond, amongst an ever-growing catalogue of prolific names featuring the likes of Robert Plant, Vivienne Westwood, and the Converse-booted Strokes on their first ever promo trip to London.

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PROMOTION 14 Destination Dubai

PROMOTION Destination Dubai 15

Hot Air Ballooning One of the most pleasurable experiences in Dubai is taking an amazing balloon ride over the beautiful golden sand dunes between Dubai and Hatta. The best time for the flights are at sunrise, when the air is cool and the view is breathtaking. Watch as you float through the air over this vast indescribable landscape, showcasing the stunning and rugged beauty that is the Arabian desert. The skyscrapers decorate the massive dunes with amazing blue skies, like a Van Gogh masterpiece.Whether you are on holiday in Dubai or a local, the sight will leave you gasping for air as you search for words to describe to your family and friends what you have witnessed. For bookings: Balloon Adventures Emirates Tel: 04 285 4949 www.ballooning.ae photograph by NICKY LOH

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IF YOU ARE VISITING DUBAI FOR THE FIRST TIME, THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE PLACES AND THINGS YOU MUST SEE OR DO WHILE YOU ARE HERE.

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Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mosques With Islam as the official religion in the UAE, it is only natural that there are numerous mosques in Dubai. In fact, the whole of United Arab Emirates is dotted with mosques. The increase began in the 1970s and 1980s; the growth was due to the increasing population and the new wealth of the country. Recent figures show there are over 180 mosques in Dubai; many open for prayer every day. Friday prayers are attended more frequently, especially at the more prominent mosques in and around Dubai. The Grand Mosque and The Jumeirah Mosque, are two of the most important mosques in the city, and are well worth a visit. The Jumeirah Mosque Intersection of Al Jumeirah Road & 17B Street, Jumeirah 1. Tel: 04 353 6666 photograph by Laura AQUAVIVA

The BastakiYa Quarter

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While the city powers its way in a drive towards the future, there is a small corner of Dubai that maintains elements of the old fishing village of days gone by. The Bastakiya Quarter, between the Dubai Creek and the robust Bur Dubai district, is a maze of wind-towered buildings with a clutch of these transformed into art galleries and cafĂŠs. XVA Gallery, which specialises in contemporary art from across the Gulf region and others are spread across the area. Middle Eastern art is on view at the Majilis Gallery alongside a cluster of outlets selling Arabic food, restaurants, gift shops and smaller galleries. The sun-drenched courtyard is there for you a stroll around and absorb elements of Arabic culture and history. A 5-minute walk and you can have a choice of boat trips that will take you across the creek, or a trip further down the creek as you bear witness to the developing skyline intertwined with the old and the new.

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For more information contact: Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, House 26, Al Mussallah Road, Bastakiya, Bur Dubai. Tel: 04 353 6666 www.cultures.ae photograph by noel miller Destination Dubai 19

Experience this

The Creek Dubai Creek or Khor Dubai (Khawr Dubai) is split into two main sections – Deira and Bur Dubai. Its natural seawater has a past tradition in fishing, pearling and trading .The traditional form of transport between the eastern and western sections of Dubai, via the Creek, was the abras. It continues to operate today. A stroll around the wharf offers a picturesque view of Dubai’s trading heritage. Visitors will be captivated by the colour and bustle alongside dhows, which are still on routes to places as far as India and East Africa. At the inland end of the Creek is a large shallow lagoon which houses now a wildlife sanctuary that has become a haven for migrating birds. Some 27,000 birds are here at any one time during the autumn migration. The most spectacular are the many flamingos which ave made the Creek their home. Emirates National Bank of Dubai, Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Sheikh Saeed’s house, Sheraton Dubai Creek, Heritage Village, golf courses and yachting clubs are recent developments along the Creek’s banks. Visitors can start at Baniyas Street or simply take a taxi to the Creekside. photograph by noel miller

The Burj Khalifa Winner of numerous international awards, the Burj Khalifa has made a profound impact on the genre of tall buildings globally. Innovative in planning, design and execution, the building was known as Burj Dubai prior to its inauguration, and it is currently the tallest structure in the world, at 829.84 m (2,723 ft). Construction took over five years and it officially opened on 4 January 2010. It is the hub of Dubai’s flagship development Downtown Dubai. It’s unusual ‘bud’ shape was influenced by Islamic patterns and architecture, particular to the Gulf. Inside, the Burj Khalifa is ideal for residential, hotel usage and maximizes views of the Persian Gulf. There are 27 terraces in Burj Khalifa. At the top, the central core emerges and is sculpted to form a finishing spire. The observation deck and The Dubai Fountain are just some of the features worth visiting. The Burj Khalifa is located at 1 Emaar Boulevard, Downtown Dubai. Tel: 04 888 8124 www.burjkhalifa.ae photograph by BJORN MOEMAN

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The Global Village Originally started in 1996, The Global Village began with small independent kiosks, selling products from around the world. It is now the most popular open-air cultural entertainment and shopping venue in the region. Standing alone off Emirates Road, it is now established as a visitor’s attraction in itself. There are 28 pavilions representing over 40 different countries each displaying their unique range of handicrafts, art, sculptures, photography, music and dancers. You can sample cuisine from various countries, while you soak up the electric atmosphere. For those of you with young children, there is also an amazing fairground, games and an opportunity for you to absorb and learn about the lives of other cultures. The Global Village runs in association with the Dubai Shopping Festival. The Global Village is located off the Emirates Road (Ext 37). Tel: 04 362 4114 www.globalvillage.ae

Dubai Aquarium and UnderWater Zoo Having earned the distinction of making its mark in the Guinness World Record as the world’s “Largest Acrylic Panel” along with 10 million litres of water, the aquarium gives visitors clear views of over 33,000 marine animals on display. It’s the largest suspended aquarium in the world. Visitors will be treated to an exceptional underwater experience as they get up close and personal with sharks, stingrays, and other species of fish in their natural habitat. Located strategically in the centre of the mall, leisure, shopping and dining activities serve as a backdrop. The colour and beauty are nothing short of stunning, and an opportunity to witness such a spectacle is a must! The Dubai Mall, Emaar Square, Tel: 04 362 7500 www.thedubaimall.com photograph by Daniel Cheong

Experience this

photograph by J.NAIYYER

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The Desert Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a 40-minute drive from central Dubai to where the Arabian desert joins an area of around 2,330,000 square kilometers (900,000 sq mi) of the largest continuous bodies of sand in the world. Gazelles, oryxes and sand cats are just some of the desert-adapted species that survive in this environment. The climate is extremely dry and temperatures range between extreme heat and seasonal night time freezes. Sand dune formation is controlled by a combination of wind strength and direction, and sediment supply. A Dubai desert safari is known as one of the most popular excursions in the region. The safari is a spectacular combination of the ancient Arabian traditions as well as modern culture and habits. You can taste authentic Arabian cuisine, ride the camels, paint traditional henna designs on your hands, enjoy an oriental belly dance, and ride the rolling sand dunes with an expert guide, which will leave you with pleasurable memories forever. For desert safaris you can contact: Arabian Adventures, Emirates Holidays Building, Sheikh Zayed Road. Tel: 04 303 4888 www.arabian-adventures.com

Experience this

photograph by Donnell Gumiran

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The Dubai Fountain The Dubai Fountain was officially inaugurated on 8 May, 2009 along with the official opening ceremony of the Dubai Mall. The Dubai Fountain is a record-setting choreographed fountain system set on the 30-acre manmade Burj Khalifa Lake. It is illuminated by 6,600 beaming lights and 25 coloured projectors, and can be seen 20 miles away. The fountain is 275 m (902 ft) long and shoots water 150 m (490 ft) into the air (equivalent to a 50-storey building), along with different combinations and patterns. The Dubai Fountain consists of many high-pressure water jets and shooters.It was built at a cost of AED 800 million (US 218 million). The Dubai Fountain can spray 22,000 gallons (83,000 litres) of water in the air at any moment, and is a visual spectacle. The Dubai Mall, Emaar Square, Tel: 04 362 7500 www.thedubaimall.com photograph by Daniel Cheong Destination Dubai 25

The Souk

In the 1940s,during Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free trade policies, entrepreneurs from India and Iran set up stores in the souks. The Souk is still one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest attractions. Traditionally, dhows from China, Ceylon and India would discharge their cargoes and the goods would be haggled over in the souks adjacent to the docks. Over the last 10 years, the items on sale have changed dramatically from spices,silks and perfumes to include electronic goods, sportswear, leather goods and other consumer products. by noel miller | photographs by Nihal Akmal Al Hussainy

Located on both sides of the creek, with the most impressive on the Deira side, you can cross between the two banks of Creek in about ten minutes, on one of the many small wooden dhows that line of Creek. Alternatively, most taxi drivers know where to go if you ask for a specific souk; the fares are reasonable. You can take a bus that runs frequently throughout the day and stop at all the souks on a both sides of the Creek.

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One of the highlights of The Souk is the colourful Spice Market, which fills the air with exotic aromas and is bustling with locals and tourists seeking bargains, along its narrow streets. Also, The Textile Souk is a treasure trove of textile, colours, cottons, textures and weaves from around the world. The choices are virtually unlimited, prices are negotiable and bargains are there to be had. Seafood restaurants, along with a museum showcasing local traditions and the development of Dubai, are also situated in the area.

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Hidden among the futuristic towers and flashing lights, there is a chance to absorb elements of Arabic cultures in one of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most open environments.

The Al Hamriya Fruit and Vegetable Market offers tropical fruit with prices that are ridiculously low, especially for the huge quantities you leave with. Dubai is known around the world as the city of gold. The Gold Souk has hundreds of shops with a vast range of sparkling gold, silver, diamonds, pearls and other precious stones. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not uncommon for tourists visitng Dubai to head straight to The Gold Souk before their eventful stay in the city.

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Downtown

Dubai has many iconic locations for visitors to enjoy. One of these is the prestigious Downtown Dubai, which is now considered the central hub of this Arabian cosmopolitan city. Also known as Old Town, with its centre being the marvellous Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai extends across to the Emaar Boulevard, and encompasses everything in between. BY HELEN VESSY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOEL MILLER

ituated in the heart of Downtown Dubai is the world’s largest mall, The Dubai Mall, which attracts over 50 million visitors each year. Home to over 1,200 stores,The Dubai Mall is the only mall in the world which has the worldfamous Bloomingdales store outside of New York City. It’s also home to a Gold Souk,which has an amazing jewellery selection, and there are plenty of entertainment and dining options. Across the bridge from the mall (to the left of the fountain) sits Souk Al Bahar,an Arabesque shopping mall and entertainment destination where you’ll find great gifts for everyone. There are literally hundreds of dining options available in Downtown Dubai. There is a great selec-

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tion of fast food outlets, but if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, we recommend you try one of the cafes or restaurants on the lower ground of The Dubai Mall overlooking the worldfamous Dubai Fountain and Souk Al Bahar. For those who want a drink with dinner, head over to the licensed Souk Al Bahar complex; we suggest you try the Karma Kafe for Japanese and The Rivington Grill for traditional dishes with a twist. To get the best view of Downtown Dubai, Neo’s, located at The Address Hotel, has a stunning cocktail bar on the 63rd floor. For the ultimate view, nothing beats Atmosphere at the Burj Khalifa, it is the highest bar and restaurant in the world,located on the 122nd floor. Drinks are available in the lounge (Dhs200

minimum spend for guys) or for those who want to spend some serious cash, grab a reservation at The Grill restaurant and be rewarded with a view of the entire city. Most of Downtown Dubai’s focus is at the centre of The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa for the fountain show. These water wonders are the highest in the world and are an amazing spectacle made by the creators of the iconic ones at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. Shows start at 7pm and occur every half hour.It’s also worth wandering round the Emaar Boulevard strip to check out the small stalls selling arts and crafts, and why not drop in to The Pavilion, a new multimedia arts space with a yummy café. Destination Dubai 33

Across the bridge from the mall (to the left of the fountain) sits Souk Al Bahar an Arabesque shopping mall and entertainment destination where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find great gifts for everyone.

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Is Dubai the New City of Lights ? BY HELEN VESSY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL CHEONG

Yes, London, Tokyo and New York are no strangers to amazing skylines and stunning buildings, but there’s nowhere else that’s as accessible as Dubai.

hile cities around the world have the luxury of boasting remarkable historic landmarks, Dubai is beginning to leave its own imprint on the global community. With its stunning manmade islands, iconic buildings, and fabulous lifestyle, Dubai, without doubt, will rival some of the most popular destinations in Europe and North America. Over the last decade, residents have watched as this once desert city, with its sand dunes stretching for endless miles, has turned into one of the unofficial wonders of the world. For first-timers to Dubai there is always one thing that leaves a lasting impression; when night falls the city lights transform Dubai into a spectacular scene, with its ambitious skyscrapers lighting up the skyline, revealing another side to this beautiful Middle Eastern oasis. Venice, Paris, New York, Las Vegas, and even Perth in Western Australia have all carried the title ‘The City of Lights’. The question is now being asked if Dubai, with the incredible development of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, deserves the title. We’ll let you be the judge. Let’s begin in Downtown Dubai and the iconic Burj Khalifa, which entered the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest tower in the world, its tip a staggering 829 metres from the ground, creates a huge shining beacon for the entire city. If you approach Dubai from the north or the east, it can be seen from hundreds of miles

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away, its lights drawing you into what is now known as the centre of the city. The Burj Khalifa remains one of the must-see tourist destinations when travelling to Dubai; at night this remarkable masterpiece will leave you not only gasping for air, but with some of the most incredible pictures to take home from your Arabian adventure. It’s not only Downtown Dubai whose lights seem to attract visitors to the city. If you head out to Old Town, travelling on Sheikh Zayed Rd, the closely developed row of skyscrapers stand like sentries on duty, rigid with attention, each of them lit with colorful neon lights. It’s futuristic and modern and shows a sense of individuality like no other place on earth. Dubai’s skyline is iconic and organic – buildings rise and fall here in a condensed time – years rather than decades, continually becoming more advanced, and against the hazy dusk desert sun, the staggered outline of Sheikh Zayed Road is one of the most fascinating sights. For the best view of this, head over to Festival City – across Business Bay Bridge – itself lit with hypnotising cobalt blue lights – and take a seat on the terrace at Belgian Beer Café – one of the finest places to watch the swift sunset that gives way to the hot steamy nights. From the old to the new, Dubai Marina, created from the dusty outskirts of Jebel Ali five years ago, is in itself a city of lights.

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Just remember that night falls early in Dubai (between 5pm and 7pm all year round) as you don’t want to miss out.

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This waterside cosmopolitan hub has room for over 100,000 people, all living in a series of stunning skyscrapers. From those that twist like a rope to the sand coloured impressive Jumeirah Beach Residence development, which sits like a row of stalagmites along the coast, these buildings create a distinct impression. To truly appreciate their beauty, we recommend you take a drive, after dark, across the bridge, linking the Dubai Marina and JBR. You won’t be disappointed; you’ll have something to talk about when you return home. From the sea, the Marina looks like its own city shining bright, but once you get down on the ground, walk around the pedestrian friendly walkways and check out the glittering reflection of Dubai’s success in the still marina waters. Halfway

around the back of the Marina, sits a shining blue arc – that marks the home of the Dubai Marina Yacht Club – as does the flotilla of bank account emptying boats that gently bob around every evening outside. There is nowhere better to sit back and enjoy an after dark tipple than on the terrace here, where you can take in the shining, bright skyscrapers. Yes, London, Tokyo and New York are no strangers to amazing skylines and stunning buildings, but there’s nowhere else that’s as accessible as Dubai. In one of these older, more historical cities, good views and amazing light shows come with a price - you’d have to be a millionaire or extremely well connected to enjoy the views in the luxury that is offered in Dubai Marina – which is open to everyone. Whilst it can be intense

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and too hot for some in the middle of the day, head down to the beach by the infamous Burj Al Arab, at the end of the afternoon and you’ll have a front row seat to some impressive sunsets. While the sailboat shaped seven-star hotel juts out into the water on its own island, the heavy orange sun sets gracefully behind it, and with pretty much all year round clear skies, you’re almost definitely guaranteed an amazing light show every night. Just remember that night falls early in Dubai (between 5 - 7pm all year round) as you don’t want to miss out. And if you’re looking for somewhere a bit more glam to watch the sunset than on a beach – try 360, the al fresco bar/club that sits out to sea next to the Burj Al Arab. Sip cocktails and decide what you’re going to watch – the sunset or the beautiful people, who light up the city and bring it to life as much as the buildings. Dubai’s future looks bright indeed.

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The Best of Dubai Marina

Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new crown jewel is a five star experience. Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marina area, arguably the glitziest part of town, has arisen out of nothing but sand over the last five years. What once was the edge of the city has blossomed into a thriving metropolis of its own, complete with skyscrapers, five star hotels, fabulous restaurants and a large pedestrian friendly beachside area. BY HELEN VESSY | PHOTOGRAPH BY DANIEL CHEONG

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOEL MILLER

he development is based around a two kilometre manmade marina, which, once completed, will be the largest of its kind in the world. On its way to near completion, visitors and residents can now take a stroll along the Marina’s landscaped walkways that come alive after dark with joggers, dog walkers, fitness classes, and rollerbladers all enjoying the cool nights. Between the Marina and the sea lies Jumeirah Beach Residence (known locally as JBR). The collection of thirty-odd sand coloured skyscrapers is home to a huge number of expats from all over the globe as well as restaurants, shops and services located around the Plaza level (accessible from both the beach side and the Marina side). The Walk The Walk, a large busy one way street which runs parallel to the beach (often referred to as JBR beach) is one of the busiest places to be over a weekend, but for visitors it’s a must see. Down the strip, you’ll

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find everything from high end luxury boutiques to endless restaurants and cafes, along with three or four hotels which house al fresco pool bars and low key pubs. Although fairly quiet during the day, The Walk transforms into a bustling meeting place after dark, where local residents go to drink coffee and smoke shisha. During the evenings and weekends, (apart from the summer months), visitors can also enjoy the Covent Garden market where clothes from local designers, jewellery, gifts, and souvenirs can all be found. For those wanting a beachside cocktail, there are a few of hotels which back onto the sand. The Hilton is conveniently situated in the middle of The Walk; it is home to Wavebreakers, a casual al fresco holiday bar with a pool table. Access to the beach can be found opposite Boots and Starbucks on The Walk, but be careful as the water currents are stronger than the sea’s flat surface

would suggest. For those wanting to make a day of it, stock up on supplies (water, especially) before heading there, as there is nothing available on the actual sand. Eating out Dubai Marina is home to some of the city’s finest restaurants. Every type of cuisine is catered for amongst the growing number of hotels. For a meal with a fine view, try the Observatory at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel; an international eatery on the 52nd floor where diners can gaze out over the glittering Arabian waters. The Marina is also not without Michelin star chefs! Gary Rhodes has two restaurants in the area – Mezzanine at Grosvenor House, which is a constant award winner, and a relatively new steakhouse at Le Royal Meridien. The Habtoor Grand Hotel & Spa houses an array of restaurants, including Bonsai for Japanese

and the Grand Grill for steak. Down on its private beach it has created XL Lounge – an al fresco beach club with pool where guests can hire private cabanas with waiter service. It is truly a great Dubai experience. For a more modest meal, The Walk is home to plenty of well known brands, from Pizza Hut and Wagamamas to Paul’s Café. Drinks A day on the beach isn’t complete without a sundowner to top it off. Dubai Marina has bars for every occasion. One of the finest views in the area can be found at the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, situated at the back of the marina. Its terrace is one of the places to be seen; it is where visitors and residents can sip on cocktails whilst overlooking the flotilla of million dollar yachts moored. Over at Grosvenor House, the funky bar brand Buddha Bar has been in residence for the last few years, and always attracts a well heeled crowd af-

ter exciting drinks and Asian food. The Grosvenor House has also recently opened it’s doors to Tora Tora and The Embassy to add to their impressive list of lounge bars and clubs. To get a proper look at the Marina development after dark, head to The Address Hotel, Dubai Marina’s 4th floor infinity pool bar, Shades, which serves up drinks and bar snacks with a live DJ at weekends. Get active For those who love an adrenaline kick, there is one experience that cannot be missed. Skydive Dubai, located behind the Habtoor hotel, is where you can jump out of a plane from 13,000 feet. With a view encompassing the whole of The Palm below you, it really is one of the most impressive places in the world to make the leap. Fancy keeping your feet on the ground, well relatively speaking? The Marina is home to a couple of different charter options where

you can hire a boat to take you out onto the calming seas of the Arabian Gulf. Sail over to The Palm and around it for an afternoon and get a different glimpse of the Marina. Find them on Marina Walk, at the back of the Marina. But of course, no area would be complete in Dubai without a shopping mall. Dubai Marina Mall is much smaller than its cousins, making it more accessible for a quick dip in and out. Visitors will find a range of high street stores with only a clutch of designer outlets. Why not sit and enjoy a coffee afterwards at one of the Marina side cafés, before taking a stroll round one of the new walkways?

The collection of thirty-odd sand coloured skyscrapers is home to a huge number of expats. Destination Dubai 47

Fresh Thyme Stars (Top Left) Green Salad with Fried Halloumi, Grapes and Pomegranate Dressing (Top Right) Barbequed Chicken (Bottom Left) Spiced Ricotta Stuffed Dates (Bottom Right)

Food has no borders

Food it seems has no borders, particularly cuisine from the Arab world. Historically, Arabic food, as we know it today, can be traced back to mediaeval times; many documented books about cooking date as far back as the 8th century in Baghdad – the golden era of civilization. The luxury of food is that it seamlessly travels through countries and crosses cultures, often reappearing as another name. by Suzanne Husseini | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETRINA TINSLAY | COURTESY MOTIVATE PUBLISHING

TV presenter and author Suzanne Husseini is one of the most creative cooks in the region. Known for her live cooking demonstrations worldwide, her best selling books, “When Suzanne Cooks” and “Modern Flavours of Arabia” both showcase the best of Arabic cuisine. With her vast experience in restaurant management, Suzanne also shares her skills, passion, and enthusiasm for food by hostingcooking classes for those eager to unlock the mysteries of Middle Eastern dishes. Suzanne has a number of events scheduled throughout the year. For more information, log onto www.suzannehusseini.com

itting at the crossroads of so many diverse cultures such as Persian, Turkish, Greek, Indian, to name a few, allowed the Arabic cuisine to evolve in a unique and rich way. Spices, ingredients and various cooking techniques were borrowed, shared and later adopted. In this climate of exchange and learning, many wonderful dishes were concocted and savoured, and many live on to this day. There are many Arabic dishes deeply rooted in neighbouring countries, and because of this reason the Arab world enjoys a rich culinary heritage. I dare say that it is the True Fusion; however, I’m not a fan of the modern concept of colliding incompatible flavors for the sake of making something new. I am in love with the flavours, textures, spices, and the bountiful ingredients of this part of the world. I am delighted when I discover words for so many cuisines that are similar in other languages. Looking back at so many dishes, I’m fascinated to see that empinadas had their roots in the Arab world as sambousek. Ghraybe (Arabic shortbread) has a striking resemblance to the Greek kourabiedes. Shish barak (Arabic pasta cooked in yoghurt

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sauce) has a Turkish name, and resembles a dish called manti in Turkey. Umm Ali (Arabic warm custard and pastry dessert) could be the inspiration for bread pudding or vice versa. Cannoli (Italian fried pastry filled with cheese) isn’t too different from the Arabic sweet fried crepes enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan. Baklava is one sweet many cultures from the Balkans and throughout the Mediterranean and Middle East would like to claim as their own. Who really knows? And does it really matter? One of the things I have discovered on my culinary carpet ride is that I am always pleasantly surprised to see the similarities we share. Here, in Dubai, more than any place in the world, you will experience a tapestry of tastes. You will witness some of the most delicious and elegant cuisines. These splendid cuisines are a result of so many cultures weaving together their food traditions over time, in the same way the Arab culture did many centuries ago. So, while you’re in Dubai, allow yourself to be whisked away on an extraordinary food adventure, bursting with fresh ingredients, vegetables and spices. Taste the joy of eating dishes made in the Middle East. Destination Dubai 49

Ramadan Ram-a-dan [ram-uh-dahn] noun Islam.

1. The ninth month of the Muslim calendar. 2. The daily fast that is rigidly enjoined from dawn until sunset during this month.

Let us inform you about this important time in the Muslim world. We’ll help guide you through this month-long tradition, which has been described by so many Muslims as a time to purify the soul, refocus their attention on God, and practice self sacrifice.

Be part of this culturally enriching experience. For tourists visiting Dubai during the holiest month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan doesn’t need to be a daunting time for non-Muslims, it can be the most culturally enriching experience of your Arabian adventure.

What do Muslims do during this month?

BY TAGHRED CHANDAB | photographs by ZURIJETA

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and it is the month the Holy Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

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Ramadan is not just about abstaining from eating and drinking during daylight hours; Muslims are encouraged to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance. Ramadan is a time to make peace with those who have done the wrong thing by you; it is a time to strengthen family ties and get rid of any bad habits. Essentially, this period is a time in which Muslims clean up their lives, thoughts and feelings.

Fasting during Ramadan The Arabic word for ‘fasting’ (sawm) literally means ‘to refrain’. It not only means refraining from food and drink, but from evil actions, thoughts, and words. During Ramadan, every part of the body must be restrained. The tongue must be restrained from backbiting and gossip. The eyes must restrain themselves from looking at forbidden things. The hand must not touch or take anything that does not belong to it. The ears must refrain from listening to idle talk or obscene words. The feet must refrain from going to sinful places. In such a way, every part of the body observes the fast. Therefore, fasting is not merely physical but is rather the total commitment of the person's body and soul to the

spirit of the fast. Ramadan is a time to practise self-restraint; a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus one's self on the worship of God.

Be part of the experience Ramadan is a fantastic opportunity for visitors in Dubai to be part of the festivities. While all food outlets are closed to diners during the day, at night, once the call to prayer is heard for Maghrib, it is time for iftar - the breaking of the fast. Unlike in many non-Muslim countries where Ramadan is observed by the minority of Muslims, here in Dubai everyone is invited to be part of this beautiful time. It’s not uncommon to see non-Muslims sitting at a table with their Muslim friends getting ready to have a meal together. Australian tourist Najwa Khoury travelled to Dubai to visit friends during Ramadan. While she was aware of Ramadan, because she had Muslim friends in Australia, she had never been invited to iftar. “It was truly a wonderful experience for me and my family,” she said. “Our friends took us to a beautiful Ramadan iftar tent at one of the hotels on Palm Jumeriah. “They were fasting,’ she adds, “so we sat and waited with them until it was time to eat; we followed the practice of having a date and drinking water before the meal.” Destination Dubai 51

During her two-day stay in Dubai, Najwa admits that she had to adjust to the restrictions of not eating and drinking in public. “It’s not that difficult,” she said. “Most food chains are open but only serve takeaway food, so it’s best to buy what you need just before you’re heading back to your hotel.” She adds: “I found that in all hotels that we visited the cafeteria and restaurants were also serving food and beverages.” Some of the best Ramadan iftar tents are located across the city at Jumeirah Beach Walk and on The Palm Jumeirah, but ask your hotel reception for other locations. Usually all hotel restaurants host iftar. If you prefer traditional Middle Eastern restaurants, try Reem al Bawadi, at Jumeriah; the experience is breathtaking.

What to remember when visiting Dubai during Ramadan • Don’t eat, drink or smoke in public •

Dress conservatively; most Muslim women who don’t usually wear an abaya and head covering will do so during Ramadan.

• Business hours are altered slightly during this time, so it’s best to check with clients.

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• When you buy food to takeaway, avoid eating in the food court otherwise you will be fined. •

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It’s okay for young children to eat; it’s advised you feed them in a quiet location and away from the general public.

Iftar and Suhoor While the malls and the streets are sombre during the day, at night, after taraweeh prayers, the prayer of Ramadan, the city comes to life. The same tents serving iftar remain open until the early hours as they prepare for suhoor, the meal before dawn.

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Iftar is considered the lighter meal throughout Ramadan; worshippers will usually break their fast with a date and some water before having soup. This is usually followed with a traditional rice dish with some meat, and dessert consists of a variety of Middle Eastern sweets. Suhoor is the meal before dawn. During Ramadan, Muslims eat two main meals, and Suhoor is highly regarded as the most important meal to get worshippers through the day.

Eid al-fitr

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The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a three-day feast known as Eid al-fitr. On the first day, worshippers flock to their local mosque for morning prayers before joining their family for a large banquet to celebrate their achievement. Gifts are exchanged between friends and family, and there is plenty of eating.

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Over 120 stores in Italy and around the world The Dubai Mall, First level, Next to the Aquarium, Tel: +971-4-3253599Destination Dubai 53

Anas Bukhash Managing Partner, Ahdaaf Sports Club and Photographer

Anas Bukhash is a graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts. He has enjoyed a variety of careers over the past eight years that has included oil and gas, property development, philanthropy, and the sporting sector. In 2009, along with his partners, Anas launched Ahdaaf Sports Club, a sporting facility. Anas is also the COO of the UAE Pro League; focussing on bringing the UAE Professional Football League to new heights. Who would you say has been your inspiration? I have been asked this question many times before and to be honest, I have never had the right answer. I guess that means that it’s not one particular thing that inspires me, but a group of things. What I do know is that my role model has always been Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). I admire the manners that he had with people, his wisdom and the way he went about life. What makes Dubai unique? Dubai’s atmosphere has always been unique. It has always been a hub and a city of action and one where things are happening. The mixture of people from all over the world has 54 Destination Dubai

allowed the city to create so many opportunities for people to meet, connect and share their backgrounds and experiences. Any person who has lived here will tell you that there is a certain buzz about Dubai that encourages and motivates you to do something. You have been involved in bringing awareness of Emirati culture to the expat community. How successful do you feel you have been? I think I’ll leave that question to my expat friends. For me personally, even though Dubai has a great mixture of different nationalities, religions and backgrounds, in the end we are people trying to connect on different levels. How do you feel about the relationship between the expat population and the local population? I do think there is an invisible “plastic” wall. I say plastic, because I don’t believe it is difficult to remove. At the same time, I do believe the world we live in today, especially with communication such as social media and the various events that take place in Dubai, does provide a platform for people to connect with each other. What are the effects has the rapid growth of Dubai’s development had

on the Emirati population? Rapid growth means rapid change and people from anywhere in the world react differently to change. Some are against it, some embrace it, but overall, when change happens, as it has done in Dubai, people will appreciate it. And sooner or later they will be proud. It’s wonderful to see Dubai’s name stand along side other internationally renowned and famous cities around the world. What are the few spots you enjoy taking visitors to when they are in Dubai? I usually like to take visitors to experience old Dubai through visiting great places, such as the Bastakiya area, the Creek, the Abra and Kebab Ustadi restaurant for the best kebabs in the world. Another great restaurant is Al-Fanar, which serves 100% UAE cuisine with an Emirati ambiance.The Masjid Jumeirah tour is great, a lot of tourists and expats enjoy it and learn from the experience. Do you think Dubai is a good example to the rest of the Arabic countries? Yes, without a doubt. Dubai has displayed how it has converted a desert location within the GCC into a globally recognised destination. And when it comes to Dubai, it feels

like anything is possible. What is that ‘something special’ you enjoy about Dubai? Dubai is my home city. UAE is my beautiful country. Therefore, I will always be biased. For me, it’s the small things that make it special: the family, childhood friends, the great hospitality of our people, the small restaurants with great food. All these things make it special and dear to my heart. What are your hopes for Dubai’s future? Our hopes are always optimistic and ambitious. It is instilled in us. All I hope is that Dubai continues to advance and excel in every sector, whether it is business, tourism, healthcare or education and to always remain safe and beautiful. One day I hope to see Dubai as the number one city in the world. Which three additional international events would you bring to Dubai? My mind is ‘very’ football-based; therefore, the best international event would be to bring the FIFA World Cup to Dubai and the UAE. It can of course be argued that it is the biggest event in the world. PHOTOGRAPH BY Bahr kareem

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One of the must-do things while you’re in Dubai is to have at least one part of your body decorated with henna. You’ve probably already seen the hands and feet of women decorated in this ancient art, but you’re unsure if it’s for you. Perhaps you’re asking yourself: “Is this permanent?” To answer your question:“No.” Henna is a plant.For skin dyeing; a paste of ground henna (either prepared from a dried powder or fresh ground leaves) is placed in contact with the skin. Once applied, depending on how long you wish to leave the paste on your body, the longer the better result, henna begins to fade after about 10 days, and within two to three weeks, there is no evidence of it on your body. BY TAGHRED CHANDAB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY IVANA MAGLIONE

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tandard tattooing is forbidden under Islamic law because it permanently alters the body. Henna is permitted among Muslims because it is not inserted under the skin in the same way as ordinary tattoo ink; therefore, it does not hurt or alter the body. According to scholars, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was even said to have used henna to dye his beard, and it was believed he was a fan of the leaf for medicinal purposes. In more recent times, it has become a popular and elegant way for Middle Eastern women wearing abayas to decorate their hands and feet, especially for weddings. Indian henna designs are the most intricate: the lacy, dense patterns cover the entire hand as well as arms and feet. Block colours are also used particularly on the fingertips. In contrast, Arab designs are simpler and often comprise of flowers and leaves. Those searching for edgier designs can look to Africa for bold geometric patterns, or Egyptian styles, which often feature fire dragons, pythons and lions. The most fashionable styles right now are extensive henna tattoos that sprawl right across the back, dipping down over the shoulder and curving around the waist. These charming designs are very popular with brides. For the best results, we recommend you consult a professional henna tattooist employed at a reputable salon. One of the best henna tattoo salons is located at Madinat Jumeirah, where the artists can create some unique designs. Many tourist locations, such as Jumeirah Beach Walk, usually have a tattoo artist located in and around the market stalls. We recommend that you ask the tattooist to test a small area of your skin to ensure you have no allergic reaction to the paste. We also recommend you stick to using the natural plant, which is a reddish colour, rather than the black henna which contains other substances. Ask your hotel reception where you can get a henna tattoo.

Henna has been used since the Bronze Age to dye skin (including body art), hair, fingernails, leather, silk and wool. In several parts of the world it is traditionally used in various festivals and celebrations. It was listed in the medical texts of the Ebers Papyrus and by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya (Syria and Egypt) as a medicinal herb. In Morocco, wool is dyed and ornamented with henna, as are drumheads and other leather goods.

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There’s a reason the camel is so valued Until the oil boom of the 1970s, cars were few and far between, and before the 1920s, none had ever been seen in the country at all. BY TAGHRED CHANDAB | PHOTOGRAPH DONNELL GUMIRAN

For thousands of years camels provided the Emirati people with the freedom to travel. The Bedouins often say that the camel was a gift from God, well suited to their life in the desert. A nomadic people until Dubai was settled in 1833, the camel was valued as literally ‘the ship of the desert’ able to transport people and facilitate trading. Although no longer used as

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the primary mode of transport, the animal’s close attachment can be seen through the highly competitive camel racing (with races happening from October to April), which sees winning beasts change hands for millions of dirhams. Every year, camels even have their own beauty pageant. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and Vice President of the UAE, is said to own over 5,000 camels and regularly attends the camel races. In addition to getting around or winning its owners cash, the camel was relied on as a source of protein – camel milk is one of the healthiest sources of nutrients and often kept starvation at bay when times were hard. Camel hide was also used to make clothing. Camel hair is tough and long lasting. The beast of burden could also be worn, drunk and eaten. Simply put, without the camel, there would be no UAE.

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Arabic Artist Helen Abbas BY HELEN VESSY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ivana Maglione

Typical of an artist living in Dubai right now. She’s well travelled, well spoken and has combined her influences from where she has come from and where she has been with her modern everyday life in this melting pot of cities.

rabic artist Helen Abbas is a typical artist living in Dubai right now. She’s well travelled, well spoken, and has combined her influences from where she has come from and where she has been, with her very modern everyday life in this melting pot of cities. The result is a modern take on Arabic abstract art. Full of references to the region’s rich history of calligraphy and Arabic texts, Helen uses bold colour and type to make her work stand out. Originally from Syria, she moved to Dubai in 2000 shortly after getting married. She has been a full-time artist for about the same time and continues to be inspired by the fast paced modern Middle Eastern hub. “I was so fascinated by the culture in the UAE and the true Arabian influence on the mix of cultures in Dubai, in particular,” she says. Her most recent collection ‘Shadows’ is influenced by everything she’s experienced in the cosmopolitan city; including that of sadness and loss. “The collection talks about the past decade that I have lived in Dubai, the places I have seen, the people I have met and who have created a special moment in my life, and the people who have left Dubai for good,” she says, “It’s also about how the scene has changed dramatically in the city. It used to be so different. I remember the days when I used to climb over a sand dune and look at the Dubai skyline from Mirdif. The place doesn’t exist anymore! Maybe I seem to be so emotional about this change but this emotion drives me to produce paintings to reflect that image in my mind. It be-

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comes shadows of images in time; this is the reason why I feel the urge to copy those images before they fade away.” In 2000, Dubai was a completely different city; one without the Dubai Marina or new Dubai developments such as Downtown, the Burj Khalifa. For people who have experienced this mammoth change, there is a sense of losing what was here originally. While the essence behind the work reflects her feeling of change in Dubai, Helen does not showcase the city landscape in her work. “I don’t think the city appears literally in my works, but you feel the diversity and culture mix with a sense of celebration and colourful images and places in some collections,” the talented artist reveals. As well as Dubai changing physically over the last ten years or so, it has also grown and blossomed culturally and artistically, with a whole wave of new art galleries opening in the last few years. More recently, The Pavilion set up within the shadow of the Burj Khalifa, a change which Helen celebrates and welcomes. “I think I have witnessed major growth in the art scene, especially with what Art Dubai brings to the city and art collectors living in Dubai, keen to own their own contemporary art and support their talents.” Art Dubai is an international art fair that goes on for a couple of weeks, which showcases artists from all disciplines, and draws collectors to the city from all over the world, every spring. “Art Dubai is one of the major events in the region’s art scene; it’s a huge opportunity for a local artist to become globally recognised, and their work to Destination Dubai 63

be featured in the finest galleries worldwide,” she explains. With the increase in more galleries comes an increase in opportunities for all Arabic artists. “I guess Dubai is becoming a creative pool for talents and young artists, so many artists; are becoming recognised as the city grows,” she adds. “There is a lot of diversity in Dubai, lots of top international contemporary artists and many local talents around, and it’s growing all the time.” Helen’s work is often shown at Gallery One but she says she enjoys the whole scene and its rise in Dubai. “I don’t have a preferred gallery but I like the Art Village in DIFC where you can enjoy the finest art galleries in town all together.” Helen mostly works with acrylics but she often mixes the paint with other materials in order to achieve a more tactile, 3D texture that makes her work so attractive. As well as Dubai, another huge influence in her work is the history of Arabic calligraphy. She explains what draws her to this: “The Arabic letter inspires me a lot; it’s very flexible and great to work with. I have loved calligraphy ever since I was young but I don’t see myself as a calligrapher. I like the shape of a letter especially the curves and swirls of it. I see potential in every Arabic letter, no matter what style and kind of calligraphy...to me they are all pieces of art. For me it means history, art and the future as well, I can see extremely modern shapes and cleverness even in one of the oldest Arabic scripts.” But no artist works with just the past in their mind, Helen is also inspired by local artists such as Ahmad Mualla and Safwan Dahoul. “I admire so many local Emirati artists. A few that I find inspirational are Abdul Qader Alrayess, Najat Makki and Khalid Al Jallaf.

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Helen uses acrylics and other mediums like sand and jesso to create texture.

Anyone interested in viewing Helen’s latest collections can pop by any of the Gallery One outlets around the city. Destination Dubai 65

I hope these shots capture some of those senses – atmospherically and emotionally.

PASSION THROUGH THE LENS

Lana Vshivkoff

The location for these shots was the Liwa Oasis, in Abu Dhabi. Perched on the northern edge of Arabia’s Rub’ al Khali, otherwise mystically known as the Empty Quarter, this is one of the world’s mightiest deserts, home to some of the most impressive sand dunes in the world. What to some may seem a lifeless expanse is to others a living vibrancy. “To me the sensuality that one finds in nature becomes blinding,” says Lana. “I hope these shots capture some of those senses – atmospherically and emotionally.” But she openly admits that photography is subjective. “The one thing I strive for is to provoke some sense of feeling in my photographs – even if it’s one of dislike. I want to challenge people’s emotions and thoughts,” she says. For Lana, digital art should tell a story and it’s up to the viewer to determine what that story should be. “I’m inspired by the simplicity of everyday life,” she explains. “I love street photography where I sit on a pavement or even in the gutter, observe and wait for scenes to fill my frame. This way I form a silent repertoire with people that’s unintimidating and natural. I tend to shy away from staged portrait shots.”

captures a moment in time in the Liwa desert

BY KERRY BAGGOTT

t was a late November afternoon when Lana Vshivkoff sat, alone with her camera, in the midst of these sculpted dunes and watched the ocean of sand all around her come alive. Washed in hues of blues, yellows and golds by a slowly setting sun, the lines being created by an unseen artist became dreamily apparent with every grain of sand part of the picture. “Suddenly new contours, patterns and colours started to form and in turn new emotions were shaped,” says Lana. “I just had to keep clicking to capture every page of the story that nature was relaying to me.”

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Lana is inspired through travel - train travel in India, trekking in Nepal, exploring Cuba. “I was overwhelmed by the complete dichotomy physically, culturally and emotionally - in India,” she enthuses. Although born in Australia, Lana’s family heritage is firmly in the former Soviet Union. “As a child living in Australia, to Russian parents, I was bought up in an environment that was clearly Russian. I spoke Russian as my first language,had Russian friends and went to a Russian school. “When you come from a different cultural heritage to the one that you are surrounded by you can feel lost – particularly so as a teenager,” she says. Now in her early forties she is still travelling to find her true ‘spiritual home’ and in 2008 she moved to Dubai brought to the Emirate by her full-time profession as a recruitment specialist. She’s good at her job having climbed the ranks in the recruitment industry over the past 12 years. Luckily, her company has supported her talent outside of the office allowing her to complete a four-year diploma course at Melbourne’s Photography Studies College from which she graduated in 2007. 68 Destination Dubai

Despite her phenomenal talent as a photographer she has no aspirations to take it up professionally. “For me, photography is my passion,” she says. “It’s my way of escaping the pressures of work. “I would hate it to become commercial because then I would lose my passion, creativity and the memorable enjoyment that I felt when taking shots like these.”

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The Musical

Invasion Over the past five years Dubai has witnessed an influx of international artists performing in the city. Some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest names in music have answered the call of their Middle East fans, choosing to look beyond the negative stereotypes associated with the Arab world and take a chance on the region, which ultimately has paid dividends. Some of the hottest acts which have performed on the desert sands include RnB megastar Usher, Kanye West, Alicia Keys, Kaiser Chiefs, Moby, Kasbian, and James Blunt to name a few. Older music lovers were taken on a trip down memory lane with some of their favourite artists including: Duran Duran, Cliff Richard, and Diana Ross.

BY TAGHRED CHANDAB | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW COTTERELL

KANYE WEST This American rapper, singer, and record producer has worked with almost every major international artist on the current music scene. Reported as arrogant, self opinionated and never too far from controversy, West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records where he eventually achieved recognition for his work with Jay-Z. His style of production originally used pitched-up vocal samples from rare soul songs, incorporated with his own mixes and production, which has enabled him to sell millions of records worldwide. 70 Destination Dubai

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JAMES BLUNT He is one of Dubai’s favourite musicians, making regular appearances at The Dubai International Jazz Festival. The English singer-song writer, and former army officer, built an incredible fan base following the smash hits, ‘You’re Beautiful’ and ‘Goodbye My Lover’, which brought him international acclaim in 2005. The award-winning artist sold over 15 million copies of his debut album ‘Back to Bedlam, which was also the best-selling album of the 2000s, in the UK. His music can be best described as a mix of acoustic-tinged pop, rock and folk.

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USHER When news broke that Usher would be performing in Dubai, fans of all ages rushed to secure their tickets. That’s the incredible impact Usher has had on the music industry, having been able to cross generations. The singer-songwriter danced his way into the hearts of millions of teenage girls in the 1990s with a catalogue of award-winning albums, from ‘8701’, ‘U Remind Me’, and ‘U Got it Bad’ … then came ‘Confessions’, ‘Here I Stand’ and ‘Raymond v Raymond’. Usher has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. His Dubai performance remains one of the highlights of 2011.

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KAISER CHIEFS With four albums “Employment”, (2005) “Yours Truly, Angry Mob”, (2007) “Off with Their Heads”, (2008) and “The Future Is Medieval” (2011) recorded within the last decade, this Indie rock band from Leeds, England, has guaranteed success locally and internationally. After taking a calculated gamble in regrouping, the band has gone on to sell millions of albums and received a variety of awards and critical acclaim for their amazing and energetic live performances. Dubai, generally starved of good rock music, witnessed and heard a real treat when they performed here in 2010.

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Hang on

Dubai T

he mercury rises, but fashion stays cool, with short shift dresses, graphic designs and more than a nod to the swinging sixties. Chill out and take in the sights from some more unusual hangouts. Dresses skim our modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s curves, prints are bold and statement sandals and accessories provide a pop of coordinating colour. by danielle simpson | photographs by Peter Richweisz

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Peter Richweisz Dennie Passion Angela Papodopolous Sofi Desert Fish Magazine Boutique 1, S*uce and Saks 5th Avenue

DESTINATION DUBAI YOUR DIFINITIVE GUESTBOOK

BEACHES LIFESTYLE CAFE FOOD FASHION EVENTS HOTELS ACTIVE RESTAURANTS HIP PEOPLE UPTOWN BOOKS CULTURE TRAVEL THEATER LIVE DESTINATION MUSIC LEISURE JEWELLERY SALONS STYLE GOOD CONTEMPORARY EVENING INDOORS NIGHTLIFE COLOUR MORNING OUT-ANDABOUT RAVISHING ESSENTIAL BUY MYSTIQUE PAST CAFE TASTE DAY EXOTIC FUN LOUNGE SPORTS MENUS SELECT CITY HISTORY RELAX WHERE VISITING ADVENTURE DINING RETAIL CREATION ENERGY FUN TRENDY SHOPPING VIP LEISURE SHAPES MORNING MARKETS ART PLACES LIVING CREATIVITY WHAT DOWNTOWN SMELL HERITAGE MODERN BEAUTY MUSIC SEE VARIETY GIFTS SHOPS FASHIONABLE LUXURY SPAS PARTY BUSINESS CHILL AMAZING AFTERNOON WHEN MYSTERY GALLERIES STREET EXPLORE EATING GORGEOUS CHOICE ESSENCE DANCE MORE NEW GUIDE SUN INTERNATIONAL NIGHT FEELING EXPERIENCE OLD COOL BARS SENSES BOUTIQUES COUTURE REAL BRANDS ESSENTIAL SELECTION TIME SUN CREATE OUTDOORS VISITOR SHAPE LIFESTYLE TRADITIONAL HOLIDAYS TIME YOU RESTAURANTS PLACES HEALTH CUISINES SHOPPING TOURS DISCOVER ENTERTAINMENT SEA ACTIVITIES DESIGN ATTRACTIONS THE BEST

SUMMER 2012

Concept : Hair &Makeup : Styling : Model : Production : Clothes :

Advertising

Advertorials Promotions Special projects jessica@leproductions.info Mob: +971 50 524 9739

Editorial features

Production Edition orders Distribution nmiller42@hotmail.com noel@leproductions.info Mob: +971 50 684 1832

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Elegance Elegance

Longines is proud to be able to include the British actress Kate Winslet, (below centre) the Asian celebrity actress and model Chi Ling Lin, (below left) the Russian actress Ingeborga Dapkunaite (below right) and the Chinese star Aaron Kwok Fu Shing (opposite) amongst its Ambassadors of Elegance. There is no doubt that these representatives lend the elegance of Longines’ products a new dimension. The timeless elegance of Longines’ watches is achieved through a skilled balance between refinement and classical design. The brand’s timepieces take their inspiration from its history, rich in technical and stylistic daring.

Launched for the first time in 1992, La Grande Classique de Longines became a symbol of Longines’ classical elegance. La Grande Classique de Longines 180th Anniversary Limited Edition is a tribute to this symbolic collection. DestinationDubai Dubai 84 Destination

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Tradition Tradition

Whether they be aesthetic or technical, the innovations introduced by Longines have elevated the brand’s winged hourglass symbol to the level of a true emblem of expertise and elegance. Since the founding of Longines, the ambition of the firm’s creators, Auguste Agassiz and Ernest Francillon, has remained intact: to be aware of trends, to risk technical and aesthetic innovation without falling prey to fashion fads and to achieve excellence with restraint.

Longines advertising posters from 1916, 1931 and 1945

Pocket watches manufactured by the Agassiz comptoir, 1850’s. DestinationDubai Dubai 86 Destination

&Quality B

ased in the Swiss town of St. Imier since 1832, Longines is celebrating its 180th anniversary in 2012. The famous Swiss watchmaker can boast a technical expertise born of tradition, elegance and performance.

As a tribute to its 180 years of know-how, Longines has gone back to is origins for inspiration and has produced a limited series of 180 numbered pocket watches in yellow gold. Longines Lépine 180th Anniversary Limited Edition recalls the first pocket watches produced by Auguste Agassiz.

In 1832 Auguste Agassiz entered the world of horology when he joined a trading office established in St. Imier. He soon rose to become the manager and the company took on the name Agassiz & Co. At this time he was producing timepieces under the “établissage” system, whereby watchmakers worked at home and supplied their products to the trading offices in the region. During the 1850s Agassiz’s nephew Ernest Francillon took over the running of the office. When Francillon took on this responsibility he considered ways of perfecting the manufacturing methods used in watchmaking in the area. He concluded that it would be better to try to bring together the different stages that go towards making a watch under one roof. Francillon’s intention was to set up a factory where he could assemble and finish each watch, introducing a degree of mechanisation. In order to achieve this, he bought two adjoining pieces of land in 1866 on the right-hand bank of the River Suze, which runs through the St. Imier valley. The site was known locally as Les Longines and he adopted this name for the factory he built there in 1867. Ernest Francillon took on Jacques David, a young engineer who was also related to him, to help develop the machines needed for perfecting the manufacture of timepieces. During the 1870s Francillon’s choice of industrial options was proved sound and the factory continually expanded until the first third of the 20th

Quality

century: in 1911 the Longines factory employed over 1100 workers and sold its products all around the world.

The technical research carried out at Longines was rewarded by various prizes which gradually gave the company its reputation of winning the most awards in international and world exhibitions up until the 1929 exhibition in Barcelona, by which time Longines had won no fewer than 10 Grand Prix. In 1889 Francillon patented a trademark comprising the name Longines and the now famous winged hourglass.

Today Longines combines the original beauty of the most remarkable of its former products with cutting-edge watchmaking technology. The Heritage models are a tribute to the pioneering spirit that has inspired Longines’ designers since the company’s early days. The brand’s products accompanied many pioneers in their adventures in the air, on land and under the sea. The very core of Longines’ timepieces is based on this expertise. They demonstrate the continuity of a brand and the ability to pay tribute to history through refinement and elegance. The Longines Saint-Imier Collection has been inspired by the origins of Longines’ watchmaking tradition. The sleek lines and the distinctive lugs provide these new models with a subtle balance between classical and contemporary design.

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Your

Shopping Adventure Starts Here

Dubai is the ultimate city for retail therapy; it has world-class shopping malls that are filled with the most well known brands from around the world. Chic designer wear, haute-couture, and the latest electronic gadgets are all located within grand interiors. There is one massive bonus about shopping in Dubai it’s taxfree! Dubai has over 30 malls in the city from the small local plazas to the world’s largest mall, The Dubai Mall, which is home to over 1,200 shops. So, whether you’re after spices in traditional souks or the latest designer IT bag in a chic store, you’re guaranteed to leave with more luggage than you arrived with. PHOTOGRAPH BY DANIEL CHEONG 88 Destination Dubai

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Shopping Dubai is not just about the glamorous malls and marble flooring, there are other places where you’ll find some unique pieces of clothing and artifacts. We suggest you take a drive along Jumeirah Beach or Al Wasl roads, where you’ll find a number of converted villas that offer the most beautifully quaint items ranging from flowers to smaller one-off designs.

SHOPPING MALLS MALL OF THE EMIRATES Mall of the Emirates is one of the largest shopping malls outside of North America. With over 400 different brands and 65 restaurants, cinema complex, art galleries, children’s entertainment area, bars,community arts and theatre as well as its main feature point Ski Dubai. Take the opportunity to ski down its 450- metre slope in the city known for its desert. Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 409 9000 www.malloftheemirates.com THE DUBAI MALL The Dubai Mall is the region's premiere shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destination. With more than 1,200 stores and a host of world-class attractions, The Dubai Mall is revolutionising the modern shopping experience. With an impressive array of leisure pursuits, this is the ultimate, cutting-edge shopping experience. A great range of shopping experiences alongside waterfalls, restaurants, ice-skating and a massive aquarium. Downtown, Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 362 7500 www.thedubaimall.com DUBAI MARINA MALL Dubai Marina Mall in the heart of the Marina – it is a modern shopping and lifestyle destination for residents and visitors of the Dubai Marina community.With more than 130 outlets spread across four levels, Dubai Marina Mall features a retail mix of 90 Destination Dubai

high street fashion brands and internationally recognised brands along with restaurants, cinemas and the popular Address Hotel. Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 436 1020 www.dubaimarinamall.com IBN BATTUTA MALL This themed mall is built around the travels of 14th century Arabian explorer, Ibn Battuta. Split into six different countries, North African, Egyptian, Persian, Indian and Chinese courts are represented in their cultural décor and are eye catching. The stores within are your expected worldwide brands. Everything you need is in this vast complex of shopping madness or paradise to some. Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 362 1900 www.ibnbattutamall.com FESTIVAL CENTRE Festival Centre is Dubai’s unrivalled waterfront destination for style and sophistication, showcasing a selection of prestigious retailers, an international gourmet culture and a world-class entertainment retreat. Located at the heart of Dubai Festival City, Festival Centre has over 600 shops including, 12 screen cinema complex, bowling, a vast entertainment centre and parking for 13,000 cars. Treatyourself and enjoy. Festival City Centre Tel: 04 232 5444 www.dubaifestivalcity.com WAFI CITY This mall will persuade you to be its favou-

rite. The pyramid-shaped atrium roofs and the decorative hieroglyphics on the walls add to the craft of the mall along with the most opulent stores. This is as up market as you could get. High fashion brands, boutiques, lingerie, department stores and fabulous restaurants assist you in putting the elegance back into shopping. Wafi City, Sheikh Rashid Road Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 7700 www.wafi.com MERCATO CENTRE Mercato (Italian for market) offers you a very charmed experience. One of the slightly smaller malls compared to the other giants, its quiet unique and distinctive for the Middle East. The architectural concept is based on pieces of Italian, French, and Spanish designs. With cobblestone bridges and walkways amongst the shopping brands that are around you. Include the usual suspects. Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 344 4161 www.mercatoshoppingmall.com DEIRA CITY CENTRE Deira City Centre is one of the busiest shopping malls in the region. It has over 300 outlets with almost everything you can possibly think you need food, textiles, cinema, restaurants and a children’s area. The mall is ideally placed between branded hotels, the airport, a golf course and on the edge of central Dubai. It is spread over 3 floors.

Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 295 4486 www.deiracitycentre.com BURJUMAN CENTRE The residence of haute couture and other highend brands in the world of fashion is found right here. Stroll amongst the stunning passageways and modern sculptures and take your pick from the likes of Burberry, Prada, Karen Millen, DKNY, Paul Smith, Saks Fifth Avenue, Kenzo, Donna Karen, Calvin Klein, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana and the list goes on and on. Khalid Bin Al Waleed Tel: 04 508 7767 www.burjuman.com

Department Stores PARIS GALLERY Paris Gallery the leading luxury retailer in the GCC, There are more than 40 stores across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain, offering customers a premium selection of over 450 international brands across several product categories - fragrances, cosmetics, watches, jewellery, fashion accessories - including leather goods, ladies shoes and eyewear. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Deira City Centre, Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 330 8289 www.parisgalleryuae.com Destination Dubai 91

Shopping

BLOOMINGDALE’S The main store is spread across 146,000 square feet and three levels and will include beauty and fragrances, fine jewellery andwatches, handbags and accessories, women’s shoes, bridal, women's contemporary, women's casual and denim, lingerie and swimwear, men's designer, men's footwear, men's shirts, ties and accessories. Other highlights include at your service personal shopping salons for men and women.

o’ de rose 999 Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai Tel: 04 348 7990 info@o-derose.com www.o-derose.com

o’ de rose offers clothing, jewellery, accessories, furniture, contemporary art and home decor by renowned designers and artisans. Nadine Khoury, managing partner, states: “We selectively source our products from different parts of the world with an inclination to our Arabic heritage with a modern “design” twist. Our products are handmade and therefore unique; they are statement pieces that will transform any interior.” You are invited to share and join the unique o’ de rose shopping experience.

&Different

Exotic Colourful Bold

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOEL MILLER

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t o’ de rose, you will experience shopping at another level. It is not a mere transaction; it’s a spiritual experience that engages all your five senses. o’ de rose starts by greeting its customers with its signature rose water drink. Along with the delightful armoured fragrances in the air and the music in the background you realise you are instantly at ease from the moment you make your entrance. The shop allows its customers space and encourage their customers to relax, enjoy and take part in discovering a very unique experience. The items and products are special, colourful and many of the pieces are influenced by contemporary Arabic art. The feeling that you are amongst Ali Baba’s treasure cave cannot be overstated.

THe Global Village Global Village is the most popular open-air cultural entertainment and shopping venue in the region, wherein families gather from around the world to enjoy games, music, rides, dance and shopping. At Global Village, artists from various parts of the world come together and the public gets to watch them live. Global Village 2012 is an international platform for creative global artists. It is also appealing exhibition with several forms of modern art for public. Being the largest outdoo the family entertainment venue in the region and a member of Tecom investments, the Dubai Global Village welcomes a huge number of visitors with several events, special offers and surprises. Global Village, offers 28 pavilions representing 40 or more nations, including Egypt, Saudi, Qatar, Turkey and Thailand. All these countries will be perform shows in the pavilion theatres. There is also a display of fireworks, including World Events Tent, with the capacity to accommodate 700 or more people.

The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 350 5333 www.bloomingdales.com DEBENHAMS Debenhams is one of the leading department stores from the UK. What differentiates Debenhams from other retailers is the unique combination of own brands, exclusive designer ranges and leading international brands. Debenhams currently has over 20 'Designers at Debenhams', designing over 41 different ranges. Designer collections include J by Jasper Conran, Butterfly by Matthew illiamson and Rocha by John Rocha. Deira City Centre Baniyas Street, Port Saeed Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 294 0011 www.debenhams.com MARKS & SPENCERS Marks & Spencer stores in the region.The company’s remain true to its vision of maintaining its high standards, uniqueness, quality, value and service. Marks & Spencer stores are situated conveniently for all your shopping needs. The stores have a wide range of products including fashionwear for men, women and children, lingerie, beauty, fragrances, jewellery home and in–house food products.

GALERIES LAFAYETTE The legendary French style is truly alive in the shopping capital of the Middle East.Galeries Lafayette's massive, three-storey shop ata total area of 215,000 square ft, Galeries Lafayette claims the distinction of being the largest department store in Dubai. Fashion and home collection floors offer numerous international brands. The Lafayette Gourmet also offers highend food products and cuisine. The Dubai Mall Al Doha Street, Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 339 9933 www.galerieslafayette.com

WOMEN’S SHOPS BCBG MAXAZRIA In 1989, Max Azria launched BCBGMAXAZRIA, named for the French phrase "bon chic, bon genre," a Parisian slang meaning "good style, good attitude”. BCBGMAXAZRIA is the premier lifestyle collection for the modern woman. Reconciling creativity with accessibility and desirability. BCBGMAXAZRIA occupies a unique position in American fashion, offering sophisticated, confident designs that take consumers from work to weekend in style. Bur Juman Bur Dubai Trade Centre Road Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 355 8458 www.bcbg.com BEBE Chairman and founder Manny Mashouf founded Bebe as a San Francisco boutique in 1976. Strong, sexy, bold and stylish,the Bebe woman is confident, hip, sophisticated, body-conscious, expressive and retains her own style. Bebe’s exclusive products are available under the Bebe, 2b Bebe and Bebe outlet brand names in more than 500 boutiques stores across the world. Marina Mall, Dubai Marina

Marciano represents pure glamour in everyday fashion, from intricately detailed tops to glamorous party dresses and well-constructed pants, skirts and coats. The collection offers a variety of mix-and-match pieces that will take you from a morning meeting to cocktail hour in style. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 9210 www.marciano.com HERVE LEGER Hervé Leger captures the allure of the modern, powerful woman with its exclusive couture and dynamic ready-to-wear collections. Hervé Leger designs are seamlessly sculptured. Paying tribute to a modern femininity while maintaining the house's heritage. Hervé Leger by Max Azria makes unforgettable statements and is embraced by today's style-setters, including Kate Hudson, Beyonce Knowles, and Victoria Beckham. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 330 8205 www.herveleger.com JUICY COUTURE Juicy Couture is a contemporary line of casual and dressy apparel. Known for its signature velour tracksuits as well as other clothing and accessories. Juicy Couture is a glamorous brand for the decidedly fashionable, known for elavating the tracksuit to its status as a luxury icon. Juicy Couture continues to evolve, bringing confident and feminine attitude to all its designs. Mirdif City Centre Emirates Road Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 284 3075 www.juicycouture.com

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1

Mirdif City Centre Emirates Road Tel: 04 399 7797 www.bebe.com

MANGO Mango is an international brand dedicated to the design, manufacturing and sale of women and men’s clothing. Currently, it has 2,059 stores in 104 countries. MANGO springs from the alliance between a quality product of unique design and a brand, which is coherent and unified. Dressing the urban and modern woman adapted and applied to each country in which it operates.

The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 206 6466 www.marksandspencerme.com

GUESS BY MARCIANO Guess has repeatedly shown that ‘giving back’ is part of the way we do business. Guess by

Mercato Mall Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1

Deira City Centre Baniyas Street, Port Saeed

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa

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Shopping

The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Mirdif City Centre Emirates Road Tel: 04 344 7195 www.mango.com MOTIVI Motive is becoming a focal point for young women in Italy and throughout the world who want to project a spirited and refined image that is always different and fashionable. Motivi is well established in all the main Italian towns and cities, but it is also becoming an everyday sight on the streets of Paris, Shanghai and now Dubai. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8358 www.motivi.com MISS SIXTY Miss Sixty was the answer to the absence on the market of denims exclusively dedicated to women. The brand rapidly established itself as an international reference fashion brand. Particularly appreciated for its wide range of denims with a unique and original style, the collections distinguished themselves from others season after season by their feminine, seductive, contemporary, unique and ironic style. Wafi City, Sheikh Rashid Road Oud Metha Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 324 1998 www.misssixty.com NEW LOOK New Look is a high street family fashion retailer in the UK, Ireland, France, Belgium, Kuwait, the UAE & Russia. The brand is about delivering fashion excitement, newness and value. So it translates the latest trends from the catwalk, celebrities and the streets as fast as it can, providing its customers with fashion it is of great value and creativity. Ibn Battuta Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 230 655 www.newlook.co.uk ZARA Trendy clothing brand Zara is known around the world for dressing men, women and children in a sexy retail environment that feels a lot 94 Destination Dubai

more expensive and exclusive than it is. A truly credible, trustworthy brand, Zara has hundreds of retail locations everywhere from Abu Dhabi to Uruguay and is part of one of the largest fashion retail groups worldwide. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Bur Juman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road Mankhool, Bur Dubai Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 294 4244 www.zara.com DKNY The mission of the Donna Karan Company is to represent the international pulse of New York in the design, marketing and delivery of a complete lifestyle system to a global customer. Still applying the highest standards of creativity, integrity, quality and innovation to its products and concepts. Simply stated, DKNY is the spirit of New York; eclectic and fun. Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road Barsha 1 Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 341 4343 www.dkny.com EXPRESS Express is the must-have sexy, sophisticated fashion brand for work, the weekend, or going out. It’s what’s new and what’s now for young fashion-forward women and men. Started thirty years ago as an experiment – an offshoot of another successful concept, it grasped an opportunity and ran with it. We aren’t inventors nor are we imitators. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 608 2600 www.express.com FRENCH CONNECTION Creating fashionable clothing, French Connection offers a clothing range with a quirky spin on design, priding itself on quality and affordable prices. Having established a strong core clothing business, through unique design and a true sense of style the company has, in recent years moved their portfolio into new areas including men's and women's toiletries, sunglasses, watches and shoes. Deira City Centre, Level 1 Store B35 Baniyas Road, Port Saeed

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 295 0431 www.fcdubai.com GAP Gap, an iconic retail brand, offers inventive American style. Clean, classic clothing and accessories help customers express their individual sense of style. Gap, which opened its first store more than 40 years ago, continues to build its brand presence around the world. A comfortable and bright speciality retailer offering clothing, accessories and care products for men, women, children and babies. Mercato Mall Jumeirah Road Jumeirah 1 Deira City Centre Ibn Batuta Mall Egypt Court Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai Outlet Mall Dubai-Al Ain Road Dubailand Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8784 www.gap.com ARMANI EXCHANGE A|X Armani Exchange is accessible Armani, inspired by street-chick culture, fashionable and urban dance music and everything that signifies freedom and personal style. Armani Exchange is a youthful label created by Italian designer and entrepreneur Giorgio Armani. With Armani Exchange he interprets his sensual and unique style to create casual yet sophisticated collection for the young, urban sexy woman. Deira City Centre Baniyas Road Port Saeed Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 294 3057 www.armaniexchange.com CALVIN KLEIN Calvin Klein, Inc. is one of the leading fashion design and marketing studios in the world. It designs women’s and men's designer collections and a range of other products. Brands/ lifestyles include Calvin Klein Collection, ck Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein and Calvin Klein Jeans. Product lines under Calvin Klein brands include hosiery, socks, swimwear, as well as products for the home. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 1461 www.calvinklein.com

CHANEL Designer, visionary, artist, Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel reinvented fashion by transcending its conventions, creating an uncomplicated luxury that changed women’s lives forever. She followed no rules, epitomizing the very modern values of freedom, passion and feminine elegance. From the little black dress to the tweed suit, the perfect red lipstick and the world’s bestselling fragrance N°5, the list goes on and on. Wafi City Bur Dubai Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 324 0464 www.chanel.com DIOR Christian Dior was a visionary. Beginning with his first collection in 1947 he rewrote the rules of modern elegance and imposed his style on the entire world. He brought women his vision of beauty and happiness. He showed unprecedented creative originality. True luxury requires genuine materials and the craftsman’s sincerity. It is only meaningful when it respects tradition“. Christian Dior. Saks Fifth Avenue Dubai Burjuman Center. Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 362 7500 www.dior.com D&G Dolce & Gabbana is the Dream: a luxury brand that is distinguished by its stylistic originality combined with the superior sartorial content of its creations. The identity of the Dolce & Gabbana brand has evolved over the years while always remaining faithful to its inherent standards. An unmistakable style, the expression of luxury, which, season after season, combines strong innovation. Saks Fifth Avenue Dubai Burjuman Center. Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road Mall of the Emirates Al Barsha The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 362 7500 www.dolcegabbana.com GALLIANO John Galliano is one of the world’s most inDestination Dubai 95

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fluential fashion designers,creating the most spectacular fashion shows of our time. Since his 1984 degree collection, Les Incroyables, which metamorphosed his London art school into a French Revolutionary street scene, he has transported his privileged audiences to more exotic and sartorially blessed places than they could have imagined or experienced. Wafi City, Sheikh Rashid Road Oud Metha Mall of the Emirates Tel: 04 409 9000 www.johngalliano.com

Dragon Mart Dubai’s Dragon Mart, the largest trading hub for products from China outside the Chinese mainland has already attracted huge numbers of visitors since opening its doors on December 7th 2004.The 1.2 km long dragon-shaped structure has attracted residents from Dubai and the other Emirates who come to enjoy a unique shopping experience while browsing a vast and varied selection of Chinese products. Dragon Mart includes showrooms, shopping areas, restaurants and warehouses that house 4000 enterprises dealing in Chinese products. The Mart is divided into several commercial and service areas, an office area and a business centre. It also has negotiation rooms and three conference rooms within the commercial areas. Another major factor draw-card, and one that fascinates the public, is the Mart’s distinctive architecture, which is very rare in this part of the world. Dragon Mart attracts visitors from all over the world and offers world-class amenities catering to a multi-cultural audience.

JANE NORMAN Jane Norman is one of the UK’s most successful fashion brands. The brand has carved a niche in targeting 16 to 25-year-old fashionconscious women with sexy and affordable clothing with the ability to create adaptations of catwalk trends the Jane Norman girl is feminine, fun loving and confident, her style is more about state of mind than a specific demographic. Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Ibn Batuta Mall Tel: 04 340 3312 www.janenorman.co.uk REISS The Reiss philosophy centre’s on creating and producing,design-led menswear, women swear and accessories. Reiss prides itself onan uncompromising commitment to delivering innovative, original products with exceptional design. The first Reiss store opened in 1971 selling European quality men’s tailoring in the City of London. David Reiss, founder and owner kept his vision alive while developing and diversifying the brand. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Galeries La Fayette Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Marina Mall Dubai Marina Dubai Mirdif City Centre West Walk Tel: 04 284 3580 www.reissonline.com KOTON Koton set out to provide for the any-time needs of young, urban professionals with reasonable prices 23 years ago. Koton introduces to fashion lovers over 50 collections and 15.000

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new models every year. The “Designer’s Line” featuring designs by world-renown designers, Koton enjoys the deserved pride of becoming an international brand beyond the borders of Turkey. Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Ibn Batuta Mall Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 341 0468 www.koton.com.tr RALPH LAUREN Ralph Lauren is the essence of American style while enhancing the brand to heights of luxury. Striking a balance between “timeless” and “modern,” Ralph Lauren creates collections that are unique with personal style. Inspired by the rich imagery around him: the rustic beauty of the American West, the golden age of Hollywood glamour, the sleek innovation of authentic equestrian heritage. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Mall Burj Khalifa Boulevard www.stores.ralphlauren.com RIVER ISLAND River Island customers are part of the "because I'm worth it generation" They shop everywhere, but look forward to getting that something special and rather different from River Island. Most customers are in their 20s and 30s, but we designs are for all ages who appreciate great style. We focus our business on great ideas and quality productions. Dubai Mall Burj Khalifa Boulevard Mall of The Emirates Tel: 04 339 9415 www.riverisland.com

Lingerie Calvin Klein Underwear Since its inception, Calvin Klein underwear for men and women has led the market by offering consumers cutting-edge design, innovative fabrics, and exceptional fit. Known for its iconic advertising campaigns featuring top models, celebrities, and newly discovered talent, Calvin Klein underwear continues to evolve its reputation as the brand of choice for consumers who want sexy, fashionable, and comfortable underwear.

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 340 3448 www.calvinklein.com NAYOMI Nayomi is the region’s leading lingerie and nightwear retailer and is known for its feminine products that offer international designs with an Oriental twist. Nayomi, which means ‘soft and delicate’ in Arabic, has126 stores across the Arabian Gulf in 32 key cities and is growing by the day. Shopping at Nayomi is a woman’s delight with re-designed store concept. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Mercato Mall, Jumeirah 1 Tel: 04 341 4377 OYSHO Oysho was created in 2001 to take Zara’s concept to the world of lingerie and corsetry. Oysho shares its form of management and fashion philosophy; collections are renewed as fast as trends, offering clients a quality product and design. Oysho has created new product families to complement its brand concept, such as: license collections, homewear, weekend wear, accessories and footwear. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1

Women’Secret Women’secret is a brand offering underwear, sleepwear, accessories and swimwear for today’s woman. They create exciting new ideas to make life simpler and more fun, on occasions provoking feelings and emotions and on others offering solutions. A brand created for and by women, which works to develop a global brand capable of combining prestige, femininity, modernity and excellent prices. Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Festival Centre Dubai Festival City Nadd Al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor The Dubai Mall Al Doha Street Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 295 9661 www.womensecret.com MEN’S SHOPS ZARA The Spanish clothing and accessories retailerlaunches around 10,000 new designs each year. Development of a new product can be in their stores in two weeks compared to the 6-month industry average. Its most unusual strategy is its policy of zero advertising. Their designs and known for their simple lines, shapes and the quality of the fabrics that are used in their products. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1

Festival Centre Dubai Festival City Nadd Al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor

BurJuman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road Bur Dubai

Bur Juman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road Bur Dubai Tel: 04 341 4214 www.oysho.com

Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 294 4244 www.zara.com

PASSIONATA Passionata make lingerie affordable, smart and wearable on a daily basis by modernising fabrics and materials. Passionata ignites passion, unlocks the unexpected making every day, an extraordinary day for all its heroines. Passionata’s pink logo expresses the ambition of the Passion Maker “Play with all your heart”

DUNHILL Alfred Dunhill is the definitive men's luxury brand, committed to challenging the notion of luxury and what is expected of an international luxury brand. With over 220 stores across the world, the globally acclaimed ‘Homes’ retail lifestyle environments in London, Dubai, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Tokyo are a perfect example of Dunhill’s ability to push the boundaries of class and design.

The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 320 7099 www.passionata.com

The Dubai Mall Tel: 04 434 0403 www.dunhill.com

TOM FORD Tom Ford is among the most highly respected and successful designers today. His innovative designs set the tone for an entirely new direction in the world of luxury goods. In April 2005, one year after leaving The Gucci Group, he announced the creation of the Tom Ford brand; an eyewear and beauty collection was launched later to rave reviews. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 330 8300 www.tomford.com MASSIMO DUTTI Massimo Dutti has around 542 stores in more than 45 countries. Based in Barcelona, Spain, Massimo Dutti designs for urban, elegant and contemporary customers. Customers that are not only looking for the very latest trends, but feel comfortable in the office and in leisure environments.They are also loyal to their label and share a pride in its values. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1

generations as well as being represented by stars and celebrities worldwide. Deira City Centre Baniyas Road Ibn Battuta Mall India Court Sheikh Zayed Road Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 295 9943 www.levisuae.com Columbia The largest American seller of ski apparel. Columbia has iconic statusship in America. Columbia Sportswear distributes its products in more than 72 countries and 13,000 retailers around the world. Columbia also operates its own chain of retail stores and is considered the major force in revolutionising the way ski apparel is perceived and is responsible for making ski garments fashionable. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1

Mercato Mall Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1

Dubai Outlet Mall Dubai-Al Ain Road, Dubailand

Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 341 3151 www.massimodutti.com

Ibn Battuta Mall Egypt Court, Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 347 8277 www.columbia.com

TOP MAN Top Man Is the stand-alone fashion business counterpart of Top Shop that caters exclusively to men’s clothing. A part of the Arcadia Group, which also owns Burton, Miss Selfridge, Wallis, Evans, British Home Stores and Dorothy Perkins, Top Man has a chain of high-street men's clothing stores located throughout the United Kingdom. Creativity is expected of the brand’s loyal customers.

Nike Nike Inc is a major sportswear and equipment supplier based in the United States. The company based near Beaverton, Oregon, is part of the Portland metropolitan area. It is the world's leading supplier of athletic shoes and apparel and a major manufacturer of sports equipment. The brand is distinctive and has a worldwide reputation for producing quality sports wear.

Ibn Battuta Mall India Court Sheikh Zayed Road Arabian Centre Al Khawaneej Road Tel: 04 295 1804 www.topman.com LEVI’S This American clothing company known for Levi's brand of denim jeans.The Levi’s brand epitomizes American style and effortless cool. Since their invention by Levi Strauss in 1873, Levi’s® jeans have become the most recognisable and imitated clothing in the world – capturing the imagination and loyalty of people for

Mercato Mall Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Ibn Battuta Mall Egypt Court Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai Marina Mall Tel: 04 344 7894 www.nike.com ReEbok Reebok was founded for one of the best reasons possible: athletes wanted to run faster. Reebok is a global brand that creates sports and lifestyle products, built upon a strong

heritage and authenticity in sports, fitness and women’s categories. The brand is committed to designing products and marketing programmes that reflect creativity and the desire to challenge the status quo. The Dubai Mall Tel: 04 434 0606 Dubai Marina Mall Tel: 04 602 3000 www.rebook.com Pal Zileri Menswear at Pal Zileri is stylish and youthful, yet traditional. The shirts are beautiful and come at a fraction of the price of more internationally known names worldwide. Shirts and jackets coordinate well with jeans, if you're into the cooler-than-thou casual look. Suits, trousers and overcoats demonstrate the finest quality of materials through tailoring and finesse. Burjuman Centre Bur Dubai Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 359 9935 www.palzileri.com KENZO Kenzo, a native of Himeiji, Japan, attended Tokyo’s prestigious Bunka Fashion College as one of its first male students before making the move from Tokyo to Paris, where he opened his first boutique, “Jungle Jap.” He surprised the fashion world with his originality and the apparent celebration of diverse cultures, nature and colours in his designs. A true creative light. Burjuman Centre Bur Dubai. The Dubai Mall Tel: 04 434 0473 www.kenzo.com Azzaro Azzaro is the quintessential sun-infused brand of the Mediterranean. Fluid fabrics, vibrant and frank colours, Mediterranean blue, green, white are the timeless characteristics of Azzaro couture. From 1968, Loris Azzaro created flowing, sexy and glamorous customized gowns for evening parties and select gatherings on yachts and at the poolside. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Festival City Al Rebat Road Tel: 04 232 6567 www.azzaroparis.com Destination Dubai 97

Shopping

Balmain In April 2011, the fashion house announced that Olivier Rousteing was to succeed Decarnin. In 2008 and 2009, the clothing line became extremely popular both among fashion magazines on runways and with celebrities. His 2010 collection in Paris was said to be "totally retro" and " back to the glitz and glitter of the 70s disco era." Ibn Battuta Mall, India Court Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai Marina Mall, The Marina Tel: 04 434 2621 www.balmain.com Ted Lapidus The French design legend Lapidus was considered the creator and pioneer of the unisex fashion look and is credited with introducing a military and safari look into haute couture. He is credited as the first designer to put Military style shoulder straps on both male and female clothing, and to making blue jeans part of the mainstream of fashion design. Dubai Outlet Mall Dubai-Al Ain Road, Dubailand Ibn Battuta Mall, India Court Sheikh Zayed Road Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 366 9866 www.ted-lapidus.com American Eagle The brand targets 15 to 25-year-old males and females, with 900+ retail locations in the U.S. and Canada and an online store. American Eagle Outfitters opened its first store in the Middle East at Mirdif City Centre in Dubai. Some of the brand's more popular products are low-rise jeans, polo shirts, graphic T-shirts, henley shirts, boxers, briefs, outerwear, and swimwear. Mirdif City Centre Ground Floor The Dubai Mall Tel: 04 316 631 www.americaneagle.com Beverly Hills Polo Club Beverly Hills Polo Club an exclusive tie- up with the retailing arm of RPG Enterprises, Developed by Spencer’s for the Indian market with a focus on making international fashion more affordable. The product range consists of: iconic graphic T-shirts, polo shirts and jeans, fashion accessories, bags, wallets, eyewear, fragrances, caps and watches for men and women 98 Destination Dubai

Dubai Outlet Mall Dubai-Al Ain Road, Dubailand Burjuman Centre, Bur Dubai Tel: 04 438 0633 www.bhpc.com BOSS The brand world of Hugo Boss consists of various independent collections: The premium line is also supplemented with shoes and accessories as well as licensed eyewear, watches, and fragrances. The collection combines fashion, lifestyle and golf and offers expressive looks in strong colours. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Mercato Mall Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 BurJuman Center, Bur Dubai Tel: 04 341 0702 www.hugoboss.com Giordano The heart of the Giordano system is that it is totally customer responsive. Information, speed, quality, innovation, creativity and simplicity are the key components driving the entire operation. The brand’s offering of timeless, relevant and easy to mix and match apparel has proved popular with all age groups and nationalities, demonstrating the appeal of the brand all over the world. Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 399 7931 www.sacoor.com Lacoste Lacoste is a lifestyle brand, born of the inventiveness of a tennis champion, René Lacoste, who created the first polo shirt ever, to be both relaxed and elegant on and off the tennis courts. Lacoste is famous today for its iconic polo shirt, available in a various colours every season, but more broadly offers sportswear apparel for men and women. Deira City Centre, Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Ibn Battuta Mall , India Court Sheikh Zayed Road Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Mercato Mall Jumeirah 1 Tel: 04 295 4429 www.lacoste.com

Kids Clothes ARMANI JUNIOR Armani Junior caters exclusively to stylish boys & girls aged 0 -14 years. Part of the prestigious Armani Fashion Group, Armani Junior is for the growing child entering the age of discovery and play.The Armani Junior Collection, created by one of the world's leading designer houses, is created with outstanding and fresh elegance and has an award winning track record.

Ibn Battuta Mall , Egypt Court Sheikh Zayed Road

Mercato Mall Jumeirah 1

Dubai Marina Mall The Marina

The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 342 0111 www.armani.com

Mall of the Emirates Tel: 04 295 0302 www.giordano-me.com Sacoor Brothers Sacoor Brothers is an international "lifestyle" brand that offers new and different styles forday to day living. With 21 years of experience in the fashion market, Sacoor Brothers has an important role in the fashion business, setting trends and introducing new products and services. It has achieved strong recognition in the market where it is positioned. Dubai Marina Mall The Marina

GUESS JUNIOR The global brand of a young, and adventurous lifestyle.Guess Junior with a complete line of apparel and accessories offers stylish, colourful and clothing that will entice your fashion conscious youngster. The designerwear is a fun and range excellent choice for looking good. BurJuman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road Bur Dubai The Dubai Mall Tel: 04 351 8393 www.guesskids.com

HOME STORES

MOTHERCARE Mothercare a unique one stop shopping experience for children and their parents through the widest assortment of fashion and basics for babies, children between 1-10 years and maternity wear. A comprehensive range of feeding, bathroom, bedroom and travel accessories is also available in most stores along with home delivery and assembly service, combined with a 6 months guarantee on nursery pushchairs. BurJuman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Ibn Battuta Mall Egypt Court Sheikh Zayed Road Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 347 5399 www.mothercare.com BABYSHOP Babyshop, incorporated in 1973, is part of the Landmark Group, one of the largest retail chains in the GCC. It caters to the formative years of a child's life, from 0 to 16 years and has everything you require to make your little one's childhood joyful.The Babyshop sources its products from the best manufacturing units all over the world. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Ibn Batuta Mall Persia Court Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 341 0604 www.babyshopstores.com SANRIO The philosophy behind Sanrio known for Hello Kitty was built on the idea that a small gift can bring a smile to any child. Hello Kitty forms an indispensable part of all our lives with toys; home and lifestyle accessories, travel kits, cosmetics and even fashion clothing for adults. An amazing array of colour and smiles await you.

The Gold Souk You should visit the gold souk, to see the large variety of gold sold at truly amazing prices. Designs can be traditional, modern, conservative, old, delicate or robust and can be in various gold colours such as white, yellow and even pink. There are more than 300 jewellers situated in the strip and in the afternoon and early evening the streets are alive with people from all over the world visiting the city of gold.Of course you should never buy without haggling, as this is a tradition. Most shops are open until 10.00 pm so take your time and choose wisely. Gold is a very serious business in this part of the world and it is a truly dazzling sight when you see the windows full of every possible piece of jewellery you can imagine. Each shop has its own craftsman who can alter piece of jewellery on the same day.

Q HOME DECOR Q Home Décor is a network of luxury furnishings stores in Dubai and the rest of the UAE. Specialising in classic and contemporary furniture and home accessories. Q Home Décor offers a dynamically different and innovative selection of showpieces and sets with deluxe styling and excellent craftsmanship. Customers experience peaceful, comfortable and beautiful shopping environments, featuring individually decorated room settings. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 800 743 www.qhomedecor.com ZARA HOME Zara Home specialising in home fashion and decoration. Around 70% of its products are textile goods for the bedroom, table and bathroom, as well as decorative ornaments and household items such as tableware, cutlery and glassware.Zara Home has always aimed to be an international company, and it is now present in 24 countries with more than 200 shops worldwide. Mirdif City Centre Emirates Road, Mirdiff Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 341 4184 www.zarahome.com LIFESTYLE Lifestyle is a well-defined retail concept that captures the essence of today's fashion forward consumer. It offers a wide range of home décor, home furnishing & bath décor, home fragrance, cosmetics, perfumes, fashion accessories, fashion bags, spa products and teen gifts. The Lifestyle customer is spoilt for choice. So when one visits Lifestyle, they are sure to indulge themselves. Ibn Battuta Mall Egypt Court Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha 1

Ibn Battuta Mall Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Mirdif City Centre, Emirates Road Tel: 04 341 0523 www.lifestylegulf.com

Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 368 5224 www.sanrio.com

MARINA EXOTIC HOME INTERIORS Marina's products are sourced from over twenty countries and represent four continents. Inno-

vative designs, such as a bookrack made from an ox cart, are inspired by life in the countries that Marina represents. Creativity is contagious and Marina brings out the artist in its customer. Stimulated by captivating in-store presentations, customers often create combinations that reflect their own individuality.

representing innovation, quality, authenticity, value and a truly distinctive American style.

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 341 0314 www.marinagulf.com

HERMES Hermès is renowned for its handmade luggage and handbags. The company does not use assembly lines. instead, one craftsperson, who has been employed by the company for decades, makes a single handbag at a time, hand-stitching individual pieces with linen thread and using an awl. The construction of each "Kelly" bag, for example, requires 18 hours to fully realize.

HOME CENTRE Home Centre's product range includes furniture & accessories for living rooms, bedrooms, dining, kids rooms and home office. Home Centre is competitive in its price ranges and very competent in their service.The store has always been environmentally friendly and responsible towards the society in which it operates. A recent Home Centre initiative has been to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 341 4441 www.homecentre.net ACCESSORIES AND BAGS ACCESSORIZE Accessorize has its own in-house design team, and holds a unique position on the high street with its inspirational, globally sourced, wellpriced and good quality collection of fashion accessories. Displayed in an original and impactful color-bay design, the constantly changing range includes every kind of accessory imaginable; bags, purses, jewellery, belts, hats, scarves, flip flops, gloves, hair accessories and cosmetics. Dubai Marina Mall Dubai Marina Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 339 9098 www.accessorize.com COACH For more than 65 years, Coach has been a classic mainstay on the landscape of American design. Founded as a family-run workshop in a Manhattan loft, six artisans handcrafted a collection of leather goods using skills handed down from generation to generation. Today, Coach products are chic and fashionable

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8670 www.coach.com

BurJuman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road, Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 330 8385 www.hermes.com LOUIS VUITTON Louis Vuitton endlessly reinvents itself and continues to inspire people all over the world. Louis Vuitton offers its expertise to bring elegance and distinctiveness to its creations: shoes, leather goods, ready-to-wear, jewellery and accessories. A dream. An icon. The essence of elegance. Each travel item showcases the brand’s signature style and bears witness to the French lifestyle and creativity. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 BurJuman Centre Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 341 4462 www.louisvuitton.com MULBERRY Inspired by the cool of the city and the craft of the countryside, Mulberry has always represented a peculiar British juxtaposition. Mulberry was established in 1971 with modest roots in sleeply Somerset, England and on the shelves of the London fashion emporium, Biba. Mulberry quickly grew to become the first British lifestyle brand, creating the vogue for "le style Anglais". Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8990 www.mulberry.com Destination Dubai 99

Shopping

Wafi City One doesn’t have to look hard to realise that 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 stained glass windows in the delightful retail and dining environments. Art galleries and interior design boutiques showcase artists and designers from around the world. The artistic focus filters seamlessly into the fields of fashion. For connoisseurs of gourmet cuisine and vintage beverages, Wafi is the only destination. The fusion of food and art, of romance and ambience, is served with the same ingredient in over 20 restaurants. The art of entertainment at Wafi, is another stroke of ingenuity. Amidst its tranquil calm, there’s plenty to get excited about. The staggering range of bars provide syet another layer of entertainment, whilst a choice of exclusive nightclubs completes the collection. Whether you live in Dubai or are simply passing through, every visit to Wafi is an experience to remember. Wafi City Bur Dubai www.wafi.com

MCM ACCESSORIES Crafts, luxury leather goods, apparel and footwear for the world’s most seasoned travellers. Through innovation and timeless design, MCM combines iconic German-engineered functionality with traditional craftsmanship, offering a heritage of elegance. A long time favourite of royalty and celebrities, MCM boasts architect designed boutiques in chic cities like Berlin, London, New York, Dusseldorf,Tokyo, Seoul and many prestigious retailers worldwide.

Tel: 04 339 8400 www.braccialini.it

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 454 7742 www.mcmworldwide.com

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 3167 www.parfois.com

EVITA PERONI Hair accessories and eyewear, fashion jewels and handbags, Evita Peroni celebrates women in revolutionary mode. The practical how-to-do booklets, videos and advice from trained style consultants in the exclusive Evita Peroni stores, back the whole spectrum of the Evita Peroni collection. It caters to women who craves stylish yet affordable fashion accessories in an inspiring shopping environment.

SHOES

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 0629 www.evitaperoni.com GUCCI Gucci is one of the world's leading luxury fashion brands. With a renowned reputation for quality and Italian craftsmanship, Gucci designs, manufactures and distributes highly desirable products such as leather goods (handbags, small leather goods, and luggage), shoes, ready-to-wear, silks, timepieces and fine jewellery.The exquisite quality and craftsmanship first introduced by Guccio Gucci has been meticulously maintained by expert artisans. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8712 www.gucci.com BRACCIALINI Braccialini is a leather accessories company from Italy. An incident where Carla’s bag was stolen inspired her to create a bag in the shape of a house and the tagline “In your handbag lies all your life” was born. The bag was well received in the market and gave Carla the opportunity to play around with her creativity and passion. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa

100 Destination Dubai

PARFOIS Parfois is a fast expanding women´s accessories brand, targetting early adopters and followers of fashion trends for fashion accessories such as handbags, jewellery, sunglasses, belts, scarves, watches. Parfois presents new styles in its stores every week. Offering value and fashion for money to its customers, Parfois is also unique for the way it creats a pleasant atmosphere in every store.

ALDO SHOES Aldo specialises in high-quality fashion footwear and accessories offering an unparalleled shopping experience with an energetic vibe. Customers can enjoy the Aldo brand as easily as their North American counterparts. With an extensive selection of the latest footwear for both men and women and trendy styles at affordable prices. Aldo is built on the core values of Integrity and respect. Mercato Mall Jumeirah 1 Dubai Marina Mall Dubai Marina Deira City Centre Port Saeed Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Ibn Battuta Mall India Court Tel: 04 344 7995 www.aldoshoes.com STEVE MADDEN Steve Madden is easily America's most successful shoe designer. Considered the fashion footwear mogul of the 21st century, Madden has been responsible for the design and marketing of the company's trendsetting shoes for the past two decades. His vision to give young, fashion forward women a unique way to express their individuality through style has resulted in millions of customers worldwide. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 325 3052 www.stevemadden.com

CHARLES & KEITH Dedicated to trendy shoppers, Charles & Keith develops a distinctive line of fashion forward designs that cater to market sentiments in fast velocity. Attention to product design and fashion trends is the driving aesthetic force of Charles & Keith as the brand continues to provide shoppers with a plethora of stylish footwear and accessories to complement and complete their wardrobe.

within Europe's top stores. The company sells more than 2 million pairs of shoes each year Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa www.kurtgeiger.com

Gift Shops

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Ibn Battuta Mall, Egypt Court Arabian Center Al Khawaneej Road Tel: 04 341 0408 www.charleskeith.com JIMMY CHOO Jimmy Choo is an iconic luxury lifestyle brand defined by an empowered sense of glamour and a confident sense of style. The brand traces its roots to a bespoke shoemaker named Jimmy Choo, based in the East End of London in the early 1990s. Jimmy Choo luxurious shoes and handbags are synonymous around the globe with elegance and red carpet glamour. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8925 www.jimmychoo.com MANOLO BLAHNIK Manolo Blahnik began his career in the seventies and continues to be a champion of timeless and beautifully crafted designs. His shoes are synonymous with high glamour and full-throttle sex appeal and have become as famous as the women who wear them. Now universally known as Manolo’s, Blahnik’s shoes are coveted by a list of famous celebrities and royalty. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8122 www.manoloblahnik.com KURT GEIGER The Kurt Geiger vision is to be the world’s leading retailer of luxury shoes and accessories. Since first opening its doors on Bond Street in 1963, Kurt Geiger has become Europe's leading designer of footwear with over 65 Kurt Geiger stores worldwide and100 concessions

Boutique1 jbr Walls of translucent concrete, counters of dacryl, and a new breakthrough in decorative embedded acrylics and glass, with integrated led lighting, combine to create an interior that is completely exclusive and has features that have never been used on this scale anywhere in the world. The work of lebanese architect, omar moujaes, to create this platform for boutique 1’s flagship store in dubai is both innovative and ground breaking, and positions boutique 1in a class of its own. Located on the walk at jumeirah beach residence, this lifestyle destination spans three floors and covers 30,000 square feet. It features boutique 1 gallery, showcasing art; boutique 1 living, housing the best in furniture & home accessories; boutique 1 books, bringing a selection of style and travel books, a café and a beauty lounge called tilia & finn, as well as the familiar boutique 1 fashion, accessory and beauty offerings. Boutique 1 Beirut is also open and mimics the concept of the dubai store, whilst being aesthetically different and portraying a different feel to the customer. The Walk Jumeirah Beach Residence Tel: 04 425 7888 www.Boutique1.Com/b1-jbr

CAMEL COMPANY Camel Company is the market’s leading store for gifts and souvenirs. It is a leading retail chain with Arabic Heritage themed stores in busy tourist destinations throughout the region. Camel Company has commissioned artists inspired by local scenes to develop a range of gifts and souvenirs, stationery,postcards, T-shirts, mugs, novelty items and fantastic soft toys for the kids. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Ibn Battuta Mall Shiekh Zayed Road Festival Centre Dubai Festival City Ras Al Khor Tel: 04 366 9386 www.camelcompany.ae CRYSTAL GALLERY Crystal Gallery leads its competition through innovative products customised to the need of each customer. By keeping pace with changing trends and tastes, Crystal Gallery is catering to an exclusive list of ministries, government departments, and multinational organisations, and discriminating consumers. Crystal Gallery continues to perform with the sole aim of achieving excellence through quality products, service, and customer satisfaction. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road Al Barsha 1 Deira City Centre Baniyas Road Port Saeed The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 339 8774 www.crystalgallery.ae The Noble Collection The Noble Collection has gained an international reputation for products with exquisite design and craftsmanship. In its quest for perfection, it has sought out the most talented and

acclaimed sculptors and artists from around the world to recreate historic designs. They rely on methods often passed from generation to generation, to create unsurpassed beauty and enduring quality. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai Tel: 04 330 8911 www.noblecollection.com AL JABER GALLERY Al Jaber Gallery carries a huge collection of antiques, arts and crafts for any home. Its collection also includes carpets of all sizes and shapes available in the finest materials to suit all budgets and needs. Souk Al Bahar & Downtown Burj The Old Town Island, Tel: 04 366 1688 Souk Madinat Jumeirah Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 366 8888 Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Tel: 04 341 4747 AMAZING WRAP “Amazing Wrap”kiosk. Gifts mark joyous events. Everyone loves to celebrate milestones in our lives. We at “Amazing Wrap “offer extra ordinary gift wrapping designs to enhance the ambiance of the event and boost the gift giving value...Making the entire experience of receiving the gift very special from the time it is presented...because your gifts deserve nothing but the best. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 362 7500 www.amazingwrap.net JAY STRONGWATER An American designer of home accessories producing grand photo frames, statement vases, tabletop items, adorned with Swarovski crystals. These signature designs are sought by collectors the world over “Jewels for the Home”. “In essence, I’ve created my own niche, the jeweler turning his meticulous eye and art on a world beyond a woman’s wrist, neck, and ears. “ - Jay The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 362 7500 www.jaystrongwater.com

LITTLE THINGS Little Things specialises in unique gifts, artistic pieces, and creative collectable furniture. Delivering the latest and most creative items you can find. Most of the collectables at Little Things comes from the creation of new, young and talented artists from all around the world. Each piece holds creativity, unique and a quality that leaves you no option but to smile! The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 330 8717 COVENT GARDEN MARKET Covent Garden Market Dubai is a unique outdoor retail experience offering an alternative to Dubai’s famous malls. Based at the stunning beachside location of The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, Covent Garden Market showcases the work of 55 artists, jewellery makers, fashion designers and artisans. Reminiscent of European street markets, this open air venue offers the chance to buy original gifts, at the same time as enjoying street entertainers at a seafront location unique to Dubai The Walk Jumeirah Beach Residence Tel: 050 425 0543 www.coventgardenmarket.ae SHOPPING MY STYLE Shopping my style is an exclusive shopping program offering you a complimentary limousine service that will pick you up and take you back to your hotel after your shopping experience is completed. Your tour is personalised along with participating outlets that you have no obligation to purchase from and you have a selection of great malls to choose from. Tel: 04 286 8635 www.shoppingmystyle.com THE STORE FZCO Luxury brands with an outstanding customer service advice and professional guidance. The Store has built relationships with thousands of customers and served their shopping needs. Specialising in high end watches and jewelry. All their timepieces are 100% authentic watches with serial numbers, and above all: extremely affordable. It’s a commitment to savings that they have worked very hard to maintain. Gold and Diamond Park 4th Interchange Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 380 7881 www.thestore.ae Destination Dubai 101

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY Paul Thuysbaert

huiQi Spa & Fitness at Atlantis, The Palm captures the imagination and curiosity of guests and draws them into a haven of relaxation and well-being. Upon entering the two-storey 2400 square metre Spa in the Royal Towers of the ocean-themed destination resort, guests are greeted by a serene water wall â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to begin the journey to relaxation. The earthy hues and streaming water pathway guide guests on their voyage to tranquillity and onto the entryway of the 27 treatment rooms where both wet and dry therapies are offered. The Royal Spa Suite includes a private pedestal jetted tub, lounge area and terrace, all large enough to share, whilst the treatment room allows for couple therapies. ShuiQi further offers full salon services for his and hers beautifying sessions. The ShuiQi menu is as extensive as it is enduring with offerings ranging from Spa journeys to body therapies. Open daily from 10 am - 10 pm Atlantis, The Palm, Tel: 04 426 1020 www.atlantisthepalm.com

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possible by the skilled staff who work diligently so that you may enjoy body, massage, hair styling, makeup and nail care. Dubai Media City Tel: 04 391 3149 www.karismacentre.com

HEALTH, Salons & spas Pampering is a serious business in this city. Every five star hotel has its own spa or salon which offers plenty of respite from the fast paced nature of Dubai. Try out a traditional Middle Eastern hammam treatment or ease away any jet lag stress with a massage.

Salons JETSET Every three-months Coleville’s most sought-after stylists land in Dubai's aviation-themed salon to conjure up A-list locks for the region. Prices might produce a lump in the throat with highlights alone starting from Dhs1, 870, but what would you expect from the women who style Jennifer Aniston, Megan Fox, Carey Mulligan, Anne Hathaway and Jon Bon Jovi to name a few! Grosvenor House Jumeirah Tel: 04 399 5005 PASTELS Pastels is known for bringing innovative beauty services to Dubai. In addition to cuts, and colours, it offers clip-in and permanent extensions (including Jessica Simpson's range), and the Kera straight smoothing treatment that takes the frizz out of fluffy hair. The team is highly skilled in their areas of expertise and has been trained in well-known salons around the world. Ritz-Carlton Hotel Tel: 04 394 7393 / 04 399 5016 www.pastels-salon.com FRANCK PROVOST The group has over 600 salons around the world; Frank Provost’s reputation is astounding based on style and elegance delivered with skill and expertise, all under the "Franck Provost" name. The simple, elegant setting and professional and modern space make their 104 Destination Dubai

salons truly welcoming areas, adapted to the technical and aesthetic needs of today's style conscious women. Park Hyatt Dubai Tel: 04 602 1663 Dubai World Trade Centre Tel: 04 331 0801 / 04 331 2235 Dubai Marina Tel: 04 362 9865 / 04 362 9866 Mall of Emirates Tel: 04 341 3245 / 04 341 3246 Palm Strip Mall Tel: 04 345 1171 Coral Boutique www.frankprovostdubai.com THE GOLD SALON The Gold Salon is the exclusive distributor of great products. Their team of highly qualified stylists and technicians, offer simply the finest specialist hair extension service in the Gulf region. The main salon floor features the very latest in European hair design, whilst their latest art tanning rooms will provide you with the latest high speed vertical tanning units. 502, Al Attar Tower Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 321 1423 / 04 321 1425 www.goldsalondubai.com ALAMA AFRO LADIES SALON A one stop, shop for Afro hair and skin care.

Specialist in braiding, cornrows, relaxers, dreadlocks, roller sets, Ghana lines, human, Brazilian and synthetic weaves, rollers sets, nail care and beauty. the salon stocks skin care products specifically made for women of colour so no worries about finding the right foundation for your skin tone - they have it! Opposite Hyatt Regency Hotel, Deira Tel: 04 273 3424 or 050 460 3490 www.afrosalondubai.com THE HAIR SHOP With a team which aims to make sure its clients happy, they sincerely listen to requests and keep up to date with current trends and hairdressing techniques. The qualified and professional staff of all nationalities work hard to please ladies, gents and children in creating looks that work equally well for business and formal events. Trade Centre Apartments Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 332 6616 www.hairshop-uae.com ZOUARI HAIR SALON As a true creative Zouari designs his own collection, inspired from nature and focusing on the structure of the shapes, with a reference to the natural products always present in the composition of hair care. A team of stylists brings this vision to the Zouari Hair Salon.His exclusive pedicure includes a specific massage focusing on flexibility and skin conditioning Royal Mirage, One and Only Resort Al Sufuoh Road Tel: 04 315 2130 www.royalmirage.oneandonlyresorts.com

TONI AND GUY Toni and Guy Mascolo remain at the forefront of the hairdressing industry and have led the way for professional hairdressers to exceed all industry standards making their expertise available around the world. With a worldwide reputationToni and Guy launch a global trend collection every year directed by Global Creative director Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck and created by the International Artistic Team. Grand Hyatt Dubai Oud Metha Area, Bur Dubai Tel: 04 324 4900 Dubai International Financial Centre The Gate, Marble Walk Tel: 04 330 3345 www.toniandguy.com L’ESPIRIT BEAUTE Fascination with skin coupled with a passion for helping women look and feel their best. Treatments incorporate customised synergy of skincare, technology and laser therapies to bring you fresh and rejuvenated skin. Imperfections can be repaired, unwanted hair can be eliminated and ageing can be slowed and reversed to keep your appearance in top condition. Jumeirah Tel: 04 344 4047 www.lespritbeaute.com KARISMA Karisma ladies centre Dubai, focusing on the aspects a lady may need to be unique and attractive, to enjoy her new drive in life with confidence and distinctiveness. All this is made

Understanding the sun: UVB rays are the main trigger for sunburn. They can reach the cell layers of the epidermis and damage the DNA. UVA rays penetrate even deeper into the skin and can induce sun allergies, pigment spots and premature skin ageing. A real sun protection expert thinks ahead! It takes an experienced skin care expert to give your skin what it really needs. With its renowned 100 years of skin expertise, NIVEA delivers water-resistant and superior sun protection using advanced UVA and UVB filters that protect your skin from sunburn today and from potential future damages. The right amount of protection: Use two thick lines of lotion from the tip of your middle finger to the wrist or 5-10 squirts of spray on each of the body parts. To maintain protection, re-apply frequently especially after swimming and toweling.

AL MUROOJ BODY LINES Considered the pioneer leisure centre for The Rotana Hotels Group. It provides a full range of facial treatments, body treatments and various types of massages. Additional treatments on offer are Aroma Plasty, which is the most popular treatment it feeds the skin with all the essential nutrients that your face needs in the summer time. Al Saffa Street Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 321 1111 ext 2192 www.rotana.com ORIENTAL HAMMAM Known locally as tellaks or tayebs, the masseurs are masters of their craft, hailing from Tunisia and Turkey. Under gentle guidance (the English word ‘massage’ is derived from the Arabic mass, or ‘gentle touch’), guests cannot fail to fully relax, on a heated marble slab, while an expert masseur attends every need of the body, rejuvenating the skin and invigorating muscles. One & Only Royal Mirage Hotel Palm Jumeirah Tel: 04 399 9999 www.royalmirage.oneand onlyresorts.com HUSH HAIR LOUNGE LADIES SALON Hush Hair Lounge Ladies Salon, The Art of Hair-At Hush; enter a truly unique hairdressing environment and experience. Highly trained personnel and tailor-made services offer you a personal touch and creativity. Interesting lifestyle flourishes at Hush Hair Lounge Ladies Salon...Hush is in tune with who you are. Tel: 04 327 9577 www.hush2009eim.ae NAIL MODA Award winner of the Beauty World Middle East Nail competition. Nail Moda has proved to be popular, and a unique quality provider of beauty services to ladies of all ages, nationalities, and lifestyle. It is a place where every woman will not only receive top quality service but also where harmony and relaxation accompany the whole enjoyable experience. Tel: 04 327 9088 www.nailmoda.com

LA CONTOUR With a mantra that beauty starts from within, La Contour has a holistic approach to health and beauty and take well being to a new level. As well as providing traditional spa treatments including massage, waxing and nail care, it also has expertise in cutting edge, tailored wellness options such as weight loss programes, body shaping with LPG and VelaSmooth Pro. 901, Tiffany Towers Jumeirah Lake Towers ‘W’ Cluster Tel: 04 447 3626 www.lacontourspa.com LOFT 5TH AVENUE SALON As far as hair treatments go, this popular and renowned salon offers the Rolls Royce of blowdries. The place is supremely popular and getting an appointment can be tough – there’s often a waiting list. But once you secure a spot, you’ll be treated to a luxe hair detox mask and soothing head massage before the stylist turns on the dryer. Al Mina Road, Satwa Tel: 04 345 4225 BINT AL KHALEEJ BEAUTY SALON Staffed by a team of highly trained, and qualified technicians. Passionate about creating unique, cutting-edge looks to suit each individual. Frizzy, lacklustre locks are shown the door with a Brazilian keratin straightening treatment to smooth wayward curls and kinks, leaving manes silky, shiny, and more manageable. You can also stretch out you arms and legs for a manicure and pedicure. Al Thayer Building 1st floor Tel: 04 343 4282 WOW LADIES BEAUTY SALON Beauty services, best standards in cleanliness and sanitization, best service techniques. This beauty salon excels in the beauty market. Our services include: nail therapy, manicure & pedicure, hair treatment, sculpture cut, shaping and styling, hair colouring, skin treatment and therapy, all performed by expert friendly staff, using the best worldwide brands. Ramada Jumairah Hotel Al mina Road Tel: 04 386 2663   The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 82 65   Tamani Hotel Marina Sufooh Road   Tel: 04 395 8850

Bur Dubai Tel: 04 354 2546 www.wow-salons.com

spas SOFTTOUCH SPA Softtouch offers spacious and fully equipped treatment rooms. Encompassing both health and wellness elements to ensure a relaxing and pleasurable experience. Softouch Spa features elements of nature such as a water stream, stone floors, pebble tiles and silk walls in a blend that is truly soothing and relaxing. The Spa menu offers more than 60 ranges of therapies as well. 1st Floor, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Tel: 04 409 5909 www.kempinski.com SENSASIA URBAN SPA Admired internationally and adored by Dubai’s fashion set, Sensasia Urban Spa is a chic day spa for the modern man and woman of today. With a selection of divine designer treatments to melt away the stresses of everyday life, the award-winning boutique spa combines both Asian philosophy and western science, integrating health and wellness in a modern Oriental environment. Al Nafura Clubhouse, Palm Jumeirah Tel: 04 422 7115 www.sensasiaspas.com THE RITZ CARLTON SPA Escape to a spa in Dubai where mystical eastern therapies and treatments blend seamlessly with European wellness and beauty rituals. Amenities at this luxurious Dubai spa include eight treatment rooms, a dry sauna, whirlpool, and eucalyptus steam rooms, plus two new ladies-only treatment rooms for complete privacy. Guests can keep up their work-out routine in the resort’s state-of-the-art fitness centre. Dubai Marina www.ritzcarlton.com Tel: 04 318 6184 MANDARA SPA With its beginnings on the spiritual island of Bali, Mandara embodies the philosophy of the ancient healing arts that are passed on from generation to generation. Massage and the power of touch are truly revered in Bali and are part of the daily care system. It’s this passion and reverence for one’s well-being that Mandara brings to each location. Destination Dubai 105

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ShuiQi Spa & Fitness ShuiQi Spa & Fitness can promise you a memorable experience, awakening your senses, within awe-inspiring and serene water surroundings set over two magnificent floors within the Royal Towers of Atlantis. The Spa provides a sublime range of traditional treatments, bathing options and water therapies, with 27 treatment rooms and the secluded Royal Spa Suite, we welcome each guest and visitor warmly. Atlantis, The Palm Tel: 04 426 1020 www.atlantisthepalm.com

The Monarch Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 501 8270 www.mandaraspa.com

The Fairmont Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 332 5555 www.fairmont.com

SPA INTERCONTINENTAL Spa InterContinental creates a quiet sanctuary from the bustle of the city with nature-inspired décor and Arabian subtleties. Personalised treatments infused with pure organic products, Natura Bissé skincare or Dubai’s own Shiffa brand promise visible results and genuine renewal. Notable spa features combine some of the Spa’s popular treatments to create an exclusive experience tailored to specific needs. Inter Continental Hotel Festival City Tel: 04 701 1111 www.ichotelsgroup.com

RAFFLES SPA DUBAI Raffles Spa Dubai is a full service spa - a haven for relaxation. It has six private spa suites, a VIP suite and a private garden sanctuary in the Raffles botanical garden, which is used for signature treatments. A full fitness facility, with a swimming pool, locker areas equipped with separate male and female saunas, steam and whirlpool.

AMERA SPA Reminiscent of an ‘Arabian Nights’ tale. Reward yourself with a spa experience that will exceed expectations. Offering a wide range of treatments to assure your visit will fulfill your personal wishes - be it to Relax, Rejuvenate, Energise, Hydrate or Detoxify. Set amidst the calm of private courtyards, Amara Spa at Park Hyatt Dubai will allow you blissful experience. Park Hyatt Dubai Deira Tel: 04 602 1660 www.dubai.park.hyatt.com CLEOPATRA SPA It is renowned for its outstanding service, luxurious settings and wide selection of international treatments designed to accommodate every need. With an international hand picked selection of highly trained staff and a wide range of treatments, Cleopatra’s Spa Dubai offers a high standard of service and opulent surroundings. The spa operates a Male and Female Spa 7 days a week Wafi, Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 7700 www.spa.ae WILLOW STREAM SPA Experience a range of unique spa experiences combined with proven methodology for relaxation, rejuvenation and a totally indulgent time. The spa covers over 40,000 square feet and offers two distinct experiences. The dedicated spa facility with a luxurious Romanesque feel throughout. Find separate male and female sections, both featuring an opulent Jacuzzi area with Turkish Hammam inspired steam rooms.

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Raffles Dubai Oud Metha Tel: 04 314 9869 www.raffles.com AHASEES SPA Tucked far away from the rush of city life, Ahasees Spa and Club allows you to experience the purest sensation of beauty, power and solitude. With an extensive outdoor swimming area, fully complementary fitness facilities and recreation space with a range of treatment rooms, every wellness and fitness need has been considered at Ahasees. A truly inspired and amazing experience. Tel: 04 317 2333 www.spa.grandhyattdubai@hyatt.com TALISE SPA Talise is more than a spa. It is a destination providing out of this world spa and wellness experiences for the mind, body and soul. A wide collection of relaxing and pampering spa treatments are complemented by advanced and bespoke science, medicine and evidence based therapies, paired with an onsite pathology lab. All treatments are administered by an expert. Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6818 mjtalise@jumeirah.com THE SISTERS BEAUTY LOUNGE AND SPA Sisters Beauty Lounge is a stunning salon spa offering an indulgent experience never before attempted with such style and elegance. This lavish haven in the middle of Dubai is the premiere destination for excellence in service and superior professional products. The consumers who visit Sisters Beauty Lounge are interested in their own personal style and enjoy quality treatment and relaxation. The Village Mall Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai

Tel: 04 342 0787 www.sistersbeauty.com AMARA SPA The Amara concierge will customise your experience using the ancient healing philosophies of diamond, emerald, ruby and sapphire. These precious jewels, each have their own physical and spiritual benefits. Arabian teas and authentic delicacies, ensure a quality and personalised experience.Begin your journey with a refreshing rain shower in your suite. Couples’ suites are also available for the spa experience. Park Hyatt Dubai Tel: 04 602 1234 www.dubai.park@hyatt.com CHILL SPAS How gorgeous would you feel if you could step outside your everyday life and be preened, relaxed and groomed? ‘Chill Spa’ gorgeous is the answer... Deliciously indulgent body treatments, massages, celebrated facials and more are offered in a contemporary, soothing sanctuary of pleasure. Don your robe and let Chill Spa take the strain for a few hours of well-deserved bliss. Shatha Tower, Media City Tel: 04 369 0902 Angsana Day Spa Total harmony.14 single treatment rooms with attached showers and six double therapy suites flanked by shower facilities and Jacuzzi bath; separated equally into respective Men’s and Ladies’ quarters. Ffocus on your physical and spiritual wellbeing, with other facilities such as sauna and steam rooms. For spa members, an azure swimming pool and well-equipped gymnasium are also available. Town Centre, Meadows Drive Emirates Hills Tel: 04 368 3222 www.spa-emirateshills@angsana.com Maven Spa Maven Spa – the ultimate traditional Spa in Dubai - is one of the few Spas where you can have absolutely authentic relaxation and beauty treatments in a very pristine, traditional Balinese atmosphere.There are ten spacious treatment rooms equipped with built in shower and luxurious floral bath. Maven Spa uses 100% organic natural products which suit all skin types. Uptown Mirdiff Mall, Mirdiff Tel: 04 2888480 / 04 288 8220 www.mavenspa.com

ENJOY THE SUN FULLY PROTECTED ADVANCED SUN PROTECTION AND CARE FOR YOUR SKIN. • Enhanced UVA/UVB filter system with SPF 50+ • Vitamin E to combat premature skin ageing • Water-resistant Join us on facebook.com/NIVEAMiddleEast

www.NIVEA-me.com

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Feet First Providing healing and relaxation to its customers through Oriental Reflexology and Therapeutic Massage, promoting optimal physical and mental performance to improve your overall state of wellness along with a variety of treatments. Highly professional, qualified and courteous therapists provide your every treatment. Town Centre, Jumeirah Tel: 04 349 4334 info@feet1st.com

Katrina Valente Katrina Valente has been in the holistic beauty business for 20 years and her passion for what she does is clear for all to see...Renowned for being one of the World’s Top Facial therapists she combines her holistic knowledge and expertise to give you a truly unique treatment. Qualified in many of the holistic therapies including aromatherapy, reflexology, Crystal Healing, colour therapy, NLP, Shamanic Healing and hypnotherapy she combines her tools within her treatments to give you a completely bespoke approach. Using Crystal therapy, Colour therapy and reflexology in her facial treatments, she looks at the whole mind, body Spirit to give you a very unique end result. She uses a combo of Organic and Clinical products that leave your skin simply glowing. She also offers emotional therapy treatments using her vast experience to make you feel so much better by the end of just one treatment. katrina@katrinavalente.com www.katrinavalente.com

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The Cure The Cure is a beauty and wellness lounge that offers an excellent variety of luxurious treatments, complemented by only the best products carefully chosen from the global beauty shelf. A warm, friendly and gracious experience, The Cure brings you five star services for much less than five star hotel prices.Offering you a wide collection of world-renowned brands and therapies. Building 10 (BBC World) Dubai Media City Tel: 04 391 6485 www.thecure@eim.ae AKARU SPA In a class of its own Akaru Spa reflects aesthetic charm and originality. Flowing water features create a spirit of free-flowing energy.A special feature of the Akaru Spa is a floor, dedicated men, with a separate entrance and a welcoming lobby. Friendly staff welcome visitors and advise on skin care, face and body treatments. Tel: 04 282 4122 www.aviationclub.ae THE SPA AT THE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN You’ll find yourself in a tranquil haven of contemporary luxury, where modern techniques go hand in hand with ancient wisdom and the finest natural ingredients. Discover a peaceful place of supreme relaxation and rejuvenation, with an array of European and Asian wellbeing practices and world-class, signature treatments. Revive both body and mind with the healing powers of plants, flowers and aromatic oils.

fruits, herbs, spices and plants. It employs the use of aromatherapy, the therapeutic sense of touch, and a fusion of techniques from the East and West to refresh and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit.

and guidance on the product range. Planet Nutrition is importer and exclusive distributor of many well renowned brands of vitamins, minerals, herbs and natural skin and hair care products.

The Address, Montgomerie Tel: 04 390 5600 www.theaddress.com

IbnBatutta Mall Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 366 9799

BLISS RELAXOLOGY This small but intimate spa is not extravagant in its appearance. In contrast, the service offered by friendly staff that is amazing. So if you’re in need of working out the kinks without spending lots of money, this relaxation station near the airport might just do the trick. Treatments range from a traditional Thai massage to foot reflexology.

The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8025

Shop 11, Emirates Building, Garhoud Tel: 04 286 9444 H20 A spa aimed at metrosexual moguls: stressed and jetlagged executives badly in need of – but having little time for – revitalisation. The usual range of massages and spa treatments, plus a few esoteric ones. Kick-start your capillaries in the Oxygen Lounge or trick your body into believing it got eight hours of sleep by spending only one in a flotation pool. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 319 8181 OBAGI MEDISPA Strategically located in The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall, Obagi MediSpa marks a groundbreaking new direction in medical aesthetics and skin care. The stateof-the-art medical spa, a fully comprehensive treatment facility, blends restorative treatments with the latest advances and most definitive technologies in skin repair, resulting in complete skin-health restoration. Ensuring clear, firm, healthy, younger-looking and youngeracting skin. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 7060 www.obagimedispa.com

The Address, Dubai Mall Tel: 04 438 8888 www.theaddress.com

Health and Beauty

THE ANGSANA SPA The Angsana Spa offers six treatment rooms and a comprehensive menu of treatments and therapies, placing special emphasis on the use of natural ingredients such as native flowers,

PLANET NUTRITION Planet Nutrition not only focus on high quality products but regards the customers’ needs and exceeds their expectations by providing personal attention to healthy living options, advice

NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES Neal’s Yard Remedies, is driven by the passionate belief that health and beauty should be more natural, less synthetic. This passion, the firm belief that it’s down to all of us to protect our precious planet, is at the heart of everything this company do. They believe that your body deserves the same high quality treatment as your face. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 050 873 5454

Dubai Health Care City Wafi City Tel: 04 434 3997 DERMALOGICA ON BURJ Skin therapists are internationally trained and qualified. Dermalogica, is dedicated to creating industry-first products containing revolutionary ingredients for maximum efficacy – minus known skin-irritants found in other skin treatment products. But don’t they are a snobby, labcoated bunch! They take skin care seriously, but appreciate that you’re here for an insanely great experience! Their goal is to deliver that experience. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8250 www.dermalogica.com NUTRITION ZONE Nutrition Zone is here to provide you with the finest quality fresh, natural, organic and whole foods, nutritional products, body care products and health information in a fun comfortable clean, safe environment. With a range of extensive branded products that will benefit all your health concerns. Staff are there to assist you with your issues and concerns. Town Centre Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 1 The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 9868 www.nutritionzoneltd.com LIFESTYLE NUTRITION Lifestyle Nutrition has an extensive product range consisting of the world’s leading brands in sports nutrition, vitamins, minerals, herbs, health and fitness education, skin and hair care products. Nutrition products are based on latest science and manufactured to the highest international standards. Lifestyle Nutrition now has 15 stores in UAE’s finest shopping malls. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 437 3200

CLEOPATRA’S SPA A superbly luxurious spa with exceptional features such as the customdesigned Cleopatra’s Bronze Bath, Cleopatra’s Rasul Sanctuary and outstanding expertise will let you live an exclusive spa experience. Begin a sensory journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation, and allow spa specialists to guide you to optimum health and equilibrium through intuitive touch and high-performance therapies for face and body. Choose from an extensive menu of treatments enriched with ancient and international cultures of the world and created to renew your inner and outer well-being. Enhance the benefit of your treatment through relaxation and bask in the use of the jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. Cleopatra’s Male and Female Spa is the place to relax and achieve lasting results. Experience a spa like no other. Wafi City Sheikh Rashid Road, Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 7700 www.wafi.com

BATH & BODY WORKS Bath & Body Works has reinvented the personal care industry with the introduction of fragrant flavourful indulgences, including shower gels, lotions, candles and accessories. With a focus on creating and offering the best products, and an emphasis on innovation from nature, Bath & Body Works is destined to become the ultimate personal care destination. Integrating health, beauty and well-being. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 330 8839 IbnBatutta Mall Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 368 5975 www.bathandbodyworks.com INGLOT Inglot is all about colour, however most importantly it’s about making you look great. With the latest colours and trends direct from Europe and the largest range of colour on offer in Australia. Founded by the Inglots in Europe over 25 years ago, Inglot is a global brand currently operating throughout Europe, Canada, the Middle East and now Australia. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8865 PENHALIGON’S LONDON Your fragrant adventure began in the Victorian era of decadence and carries on into the future as the company strives to create original scents for the discerning eccentrics of today. The spirit of William Penhaligon, also founder, touches everything. An Englishman living in an age of excess and flamboyance, William was wildly creative and always inspired by the unusual. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 3122 www.penhaligons.com

MAKE UP FOR EVER From the most traditional to the most extravagant. MAKE UP FOR EVER has a network of 17 professional boutiques where makeup artists can procure all the 1,400 product references the range offers. The range includes foundations, eye shadows, lipsticks, gloss, body makeup, eyeliner pencils, brushes, false eyelashes, glitter and more, in addition to artistic products and makeup for special effects. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 325 3710 www.makeupforever.com DR. NUTRITION CENTRE Founded in 1989, Dr. Nutrition Centre a company of Al Ghaith Holding) has become one of Middle East’s core leading and most reputable companies, dietary supplements,natural caring products, (skin, hair, and body), sports nutrition, diet and organic food, sports Items, fitness machines, low carb, sugar free products, and medical equipments. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 9600 www.dnc.ae LIFE FITNESS The 2,000-square-foot store is staffed by trained product consultants and offers a comprehensive menu of services complete with product delivery by a trained team of installers. “We are constantly looking for new ways to reach consumers in the Middle East and we are confident that this move will make fitness more available to them,” said Van de Ven. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 9764 www.lifefitness.com HOLLAND & BARRETT With over 80 years of experience in the health industry. Holland and Barrett offer one of the most extensive staff-training programmes in the retail industry, an unparalleled range of natural health food products, as well as an intense commitment to quality goods at exceptional value. They apply many years experience to bring their customers the best The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa www.hollandandbarrett.com L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR L’Artisan Parfumeur, initially set up by Jean La

Porte, creates eau de toilette, home fragrances and fragrant objects, always keeping in mind the desire to explore new olfactory territories; an approach that has revised the French tradition of perfume and expresses the luxury of difference, stimulating within each creation, the desire to surprise and touch The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 3134 www.artisanparfumeur.com AL HARAMAIN PERFUMES It’s a name that’s synonymous with modernism and flamboyance. Al Haramain’s ‘Dubai spray’ is in every way on par with its illustrious namesake. An aroma that is cosmopolitan to the tee. It’s a fragrance that grows into your daily schedule, gelling with your fast paced city life, and never leaving you for a moment as you go about your daily chores. The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 9291 www.alharamainperfumes.com

Yoga ZEN YOGA Zen Yoga is a full-time yoga and pilates studio, offering all types of yoga and pilates classes. Our instructors are all internationally certified teachers ensuring you have the best and most professional yoga and pilates experiences with no injuries, and with maximum benefits to your body and health! The health benefits of yoga and pilates are enormous and widely recognised. The Village Mall Jumeirah Tel: 04 349 2933 www.yoga.ae EXHALE Exhale has taken the serious business of yoga, pilates, and feel-good fitness to another level, coupling together the benefits of the classes with beautiful and elegant surroundings. Bringing together the best instructors in their field and providing a clean, elegant setting for their classes, Exhale offers over 35 hours a week of yoga and pilates classes. Murjan 1, Plaza Level Jumeirah Beach Residence Dubai Marina Tel: 04 424 3777 www.exhaledubai.com Destination Dubai 109

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in Dubai. Dining above the sea level seems like high adventure. Step into one of the express panoramic lifts traveling per second and look forward to what lies on top.

Eating out is a favourite pastime of Dubai’s residents. The multicultural population has resulted in just about every cuisine being well represented in the city, from Michelin starred chefs and high end fine dining, to authentic Middle Eastern mezze or budget street eats.Whatever a rumbling tummy desires, you’ll be sure to find it.

ARABIC ARBORETUM Offering sumptuous all-day dining of international appeal, Arboretum features Arabic dishes of detectable quality, taste and extends to embrace a menu of global appeal. The ambience at Arboretum reflects the region’ - a style-driven interpretation of traditional Arabic themes. Guests will appreciate the opportunity to dine al-fresco on a terrace bordering a busy waterway with views of the Arabian Gulf. Al Qasr Hotel Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com AL DAWAAR There are plenty of reasonable buffet dinner deals in Dubai, but few of them involve sitting in a slowly rotating restaurant overlooking Deira. Positioned as one of Dubai’s more established hotels, the Hyatt Regency, Al Dawaar manages to be both minimalist and cosy, with warm tones of a typical Arabic restaurant with the contemporary feel of a European spot. Hyatt Galleria, Deira Tel: 04 317 2222 www.dubai.regency.hyatt.com AL DAHLEEZA Far from the hustle and bustle of Dubai’s busy Garhoud streets lies Al Dahleez Restaurant – the perfect hideaway to take a break from demanding daily schedules experienced by those who work in the city. Stepping into its cave-like interior, guests can find a welcoming 110 Destination Dubai

atmosphere and a wealth of facilities, including wi-fi Internet connection, and TV playing the most popular programmes, Jumeirah Beach Residence The Walk Opposite Rotana Hotel Tel: 04 448 4276 AL DIWAN Al Diwan is a simple sand-coloured restaurant with pillars, arches and select few paintings on the walls. All the attention is focused on the stage, with the tables arranged accordingly. Al Diwan is Dubai’s Metropolitan Palace Hotel’s in-house Lebanese restaurant. Offering a rich variety of Lebanese and Arabian cuisine, Al Diwan features traditional dishes as well some modern takes on old favorites. Metropolitan Palace Hotel, Deira Tel: 04 227 0000 www.metropolitandubai.habtoorhotels.com AL HADHEERAH Al Hadheerah restaurant is a three year-old resort, from Dubai’s home-grown luxury hotel chain Jumeirah that takes real pride in its regional cooking. The entertainment matches this vibe too, with every aspect of performance incorporated throughout the night, from dancers and live music, to actors riding camels and horses, and a firework display to top the night off. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Dubailand Tel: 04 809 6100 www.meydanhotels.com

AL IWAN In the heart of the world’s tallest atrium, flanked by golden columns and next to the lobby fountain is Al Iwan, where you can enjoy a taste of the finest Arabic cuisine.The Al Iwan Restaurant at the Burj Al Arab is a paradigm of luxury and class. It offers wonderful view of the Arabian Gulf along with spectacular Arabic cuisine. Burj Al Arab Tel: 04 301 7600 www.jumeirah.com AL MUNA Arboretum embraces an Arabian presence, whilst offering sumptuous all-day dining of international and regional appeal in a light and spaciously styled environment.The heritage styled Al Muna is an international restaurant with regional overtones and great food. The Arabian decorative styles are beautifully detailed and the culinary options range from traditional Arabic and extend to the rest of the world. Mina A’ Salam Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com EWAAN The Arabian all-day dining restaurant Ewaan evokes a truly regional theme evident in the regal arches and wooden trellis. Arabic and Oriental dishes are served from live cooking stations and buffet along with coffee and shisha on the terrace. Feast on the exhaustive selections of cold mezze (particularly the rough and punchy mutabbal) while gaping up at the Burj Dubai.

Burj Al Arab, 27th floor Tel: 04 301 7600 www.jumeirah.com

The Palace The Old Town, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 428 7888 www.tablethotels.com/The-Palace KHAYAL Experience Lebanese hospitality in its purest essence – a warm greeting, a genuine smile and the finest of flavours. Extravagant and lavish interiors with inviting majilis-style seating encase you in a true Arabian ambience. Be tempted by Al Khayal’s stylish set menu intricately prepared by a team of culinary experts. Guests may choose from a range of set menu on offer. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com LEVANTINE Levantine offers Middle Eastern and Lebanese cuisine and has a huge array of starters before a mostly meat-filled main course. The dishes might be pretty familiar to anyone who’s been in Dubai awhile, Levantine’s emphasis on fresh ingredients means that the appetisers zing and stand out. A mixed grill is large enough to share and is cooked to perfection. Atlantis The Palm Palm Jumeirah Tel: 04 426 2626 www.atlantisthepalm.com MAHARA You will feast on delicious contemporary seafood prepared by our award-winning chefs, while watching a wide selection of exotic fish in what has to be the most beautiful aquarium

THE MED Our signature restaurant, The MED, is a stylish yet relaxed Mediterranean restaurant, with an outdoor terrace on an upper floor of the Media One Hotel. The MED offers innovative and imaginative food from around the Mediterranean coastline and is perfectly placed in Dubai Media City for a business lunch or an intimate dinner... surprising, intriguing and fun! Media One Hotel Tel: 04 427 1000 Media City www.mediaonehotel.com

SAMMACH This is a Lebanese restaurant with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Start with some mezze in the form of creamy baba ganoush, a dense and zesty tabbouleh; perhaps skip the slightly soggy hot potato chunks. Order yourself some jumbo shrimps, which are grilled to moist perfection and come served with a lemony provençal sauce. Great value in a casual atmosphere. Beach Centre Jumeirah, Dubai Tel: 04 349 4140 ZAHR EL - LAYMOUN Zahr el-Laymoun is an oriental kitchen and grill cafe where you can enjoy watching your meal being prepared, and you can escape from the crowd for a homemade dessert or coffee. Taking customers away from fried and heavy meals of other eateries. The result is a selection of grilled and baked Lebanese dishes and a number of salads. Zahr el-Laymoun Souk Al Bahar Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 448 6060 www.zahrel-laymoun.com

ASIAN ARAMANI HASHI Just when we thought it wasn’t possible to cram another high-end Japanese restaurant into Dubai, Hashi comes along and rips up the rulebook. The food is faultless – each dish bursting with fresh ingredients, artfully combined to create innovative twists on Japanese classics. The chef’s pick of sashimi – slabs of fresh, juicy fish, served on a somewhat over-the-top ice sculpture. Aramani Hotel Dubai Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 888 3444 BEACHCOMBERS Beachcombers might sound like it’s a little holiday shack on a beach, in the shadow of the

Burj Al Arab tend to be more like five star restaurants. Beachcombers are a simple premise – buffet Asian food – but the stunning setting and its hidden-away location gives it that extra edge. With a combination of Thai curries, dim sum and satay sticks available. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeirah 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com BLUE ELEPHANT The idea of creating an “Authentic Thai Experience” in the corner of Al BustanRotana’s vast lobby, proved to be a great move. The award winning “The Blue Elephant” does it with both conviction and style. Sipping cocktails by the waterway, you can watch koi carp swim lazily past your table and chill-out before delving into some delicious Thai cuisine. Al Bostan Rotana Tel: 04 282 0000 www.rotana.com BAMBOO LAGOON Bamboo Lagoon where a taste of Far Eastern and fusion cuisine meets the exotic: a scattering of huts, bridges and waterways, rushing waterfalls and live entertainment all add to this fun dining experience. Indulge in the vast seafood buffet where Polynesian, Indonesian and Thai influences offer an excellent selection of healthy choices. Starters, salads and desserts round up the experience. JW Marriott Dubai Deira www.marriott.com Tel: 04 607 7977 COCONUT GROVE Coconut Grove is not just the only licensed Indian restaurant in Satwa. It’s also home to a cartoon fox on stage, a great view of the entire city, and excellent curries. Furthermore, and rather amusingly, it’s home to some of the most assertive service in Dubai. This Indian restaurant not only has great service the food is of fantastic value. Rydges Plaza Dubai, Satwa Tel: 04 398 2274 www.rydges.com HAKKASAN’S Black cod in champagne sauce and grilled Wagyu beef with King soya sauce emm! The restaurant, known for its unique take on modern Chinese cuisine, features two private din-

ing rooms inside and two semi-private sections outside the Ling-Ling lounge for a more casual retreat. Located at the Emirates Towers Hotel, Hakkasan has its own private entrance with valet parking available. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 384 848 Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com INDEGO Indego by Vineet, Grosvenor House Dubai’s exquisite contemporary Indian offers it’s guests sumptuous warm and cold creations courtesy of Michelin starred Chef Vineet Bhatia. Indego by Vineet terrace builds upon the restaurant’s existing proposition, adding to it a relaxed al fresco atmosphere, where guests can spend an evening under the stars, whilst sharing the delectable tapas-styled delights that are served. Grosvenor House Dubai Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 Al Sufouh Road www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com MIRAI Like a more modern take on Buddha Bar, Mirai is a large multi-level restaurant with lots of funky design features and some excellent sushi. Its location, just off Souk al Bahar and underneath The Palace Hotel, ensures lots of trendy Old Town patrons plus a few well-off tourists.Food is New Wave Japanese Cuisine, which basically means very expensive sushi. Souk Al Bahar Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 439 7333 MANGO TREE Thai cuisine’s subtle layering of flavors is increasingly replacing the ubiquitous Indian curry as the nation’s favorite food, but with so many restaurants to choose from how can you be sure of quality? Winner of the Thai Chef of the Year 2003 award in the fusion category, the Mango Tree offers innovative tastes yet classic cuisine of the highest caliber. Tel: 04 426 7313 www.mangotree.org MIYAKO “Miyako” is the Japanese word for “capital” or “city centre”. Miyako was the first Japanese restaurant in Dubai and since then retained a wellDestination Dubai 111

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deserved reputation of serving the finest Japanese cuisine in Dubai. Visit the contemporary yet authentic and award-winning restaurant and treat yourself to an array of truly authentic Japanese delicacies prepared by Chef Shigeru Sato and his team. Hyatt Galleria, Deira, Tel: 04 317 2222 www.dubai.regency.hyatt.com

CAFEM caféM, following the lead of European café bars, is open every day from 7 am-11 pm offering quick yet healthy casual food. Located on the ground floor of Media One Hotel it is a relaxed and fun meeting place before, during or after work. Offering free Wi-Fi it is an ideal venue for informal business meetings or casual gatherings. Media One Hotel Tel: 04 427 1000 Media City www.mediaonehotel.com

THIPTARA A walk across The Palace hotel’s surprisingly breathtaking grounds leads you to Thiptara. Thiptara meaning ‘The Magic at the Water’ serves refined Bangkok-style seafood and Royal Thai cuisine. Situated in a stand-alone building right out on the lake, adorned with glowing torches and with prime views of the Burj Dubai and The Dubai Fountain and unique space boats a romantic ambience. The Palace The Old Town, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 428 7888 www.tablethotels.com/The-Palace PAI THAI PaiThai means ‘Go Thai’, and is the picture perfect setting in which to enjoy contemporary Thai dining. Enjoy a stylish perspective on classical favorites. Go by abra and you will be transported to one of the most picturesque corners of this city. Pai Thai has taken the best of Thai food and has created a sprinkling of culinary sensation. Al Qasr - Madinat Jumeirah Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 8888 www.jumeirah.com PEACOCK Moving away from traditional Chinese icons, a Zen-style makeover has introduced a palette of colour complemented by the use of granite, parquet flooring, leather walls and signature furnishings to add a contemporary feel to the airy restaurant on the mezzanine floor of the hotel. Our popular Friday Yum Cha buffet continues bringing you the Dim Sum varieties at attractive price. Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 5533 www.sheratonjumeirahbeach.com RAJDHANI RESTAURANT Rajdhani Restaurant is as raw as you get but very novel. Serving your meal on metal platters and metal bowls called ‘katoris’ this is the

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most authentic pleasure you can get while eating Indian food. The variations of colour of the curries that are served are as intriguing as it’s taste. Hot tasty and filling. You will enjoy the moments. Bur Dubai Tel: 04 393 4433 www.rajdhani.com

races and lush lounges to choose from. The food and ambience at the hotel’s restaurants are a sure treat for your taste buds. Bas Pasta is The Meydan’s exciting new Italian restaurant.

SHAHRZAD All dishes are prepared the traditional way and served family-style. A variety of non-alcoholic Iranian beverages are offered as well as a wine list. For more intimate dining choose between: The Private Dining Room within an elegant setting, carpeted floor and an impressive ceiling lamp. The Ladies Dining Room for ladies gatherings has a curtain separating it from the restaurant.

BAKER & SPICE A European heritage adapted to the region creating a unique version of local food. It all starts with our ingredients. We know how food ought to be grown, cooked and served. At our location in the Souk Al Bahar, Dubai is a cool shaded terrace with a direct view of the Dubai Fountain at the base of the Burj Khalifa.

Hyatt Galleria Deira Tel: 04 317 2222 www.dubai.regency.hyatt.com ZHENG HE’S Modern and progressive beyond compare in Dubai - this is new Chinese cooking - a fusion of Western tastes and Far Eastern ambience. China’s most modern is expressed in beautifully prepared and presented dishes, which simultaneously combine Western presentation with Chinese flavors - a style that is designed to surprise. The result is an exquisitely refreshing blend of east and west. Madinat’A Salam, Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com Nobu (Asian) Nobu, created by world-renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, combines cutting edge Japanese cuisine with South American influences to create a truly stunning space and unforgettable dining experience. A true celebrity favourite, Nobu at Atlantis is a sleek modern restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere, giving you the perfect excuse to dress to impress. Atlantis, The Palm Tel: 04 426 0000 www.atlantisthepalm.com

EUROPEAN BAS PASTA Whether you are meeting friends for brunch, business associates for lunch or your significant other for dinner, The Meydan Hotel offers a wide choice of delicious dining, trackside ter-

venue is the world’s highest restaurant. The restaurant has it’s own private elevator from the tower’s corporate suites to gain entry. Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 888 3828 www.burj-khalifa.eu

The Meydan Hotel Nad Al Sheeba Tel: 04 381 3111 www.themeydan.com

Souk Al Bahar Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 425 2240 www.bakerandspiceme.com BICE MARE Bice Mare (pronounced “”bee-che””) is a family restaurant from Milan. With Italian acting greats like Sophia Loren and Claudia Cardinale as diners at a time when there was only one Bice in the world. A comparison at the foot of Burj Khalifa within the posh Souk Al Bahar complex, promises the same warmth that once drew stars to its tables. Souk Al Bahar Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 423 0982 BICE The setting is cool, spacious and attractive. Bice plays on the theme of an Italian restaurant in an international setting, from; ‘Buona sera’s’ uttered by Asian waiting staff, to set-pieces such as giant pepper mills and trolley loads of olive oil. Any suspicions about the speedy appearance of dishes are soon allayed; lobster carpaccio with caviar and artichoke heart – one of the signature dishes – makes a wonderful starter. Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 1111 www.hilton.com AT.MOSPHERE Raising the bar with a 442-metre-high lounge and grill along with amazing views. At.mosphere; serves dinner, lunch and tea. The luxury lifestyle hits a new high in Dubai with this stylish, cool and comfortable experience. At.mosphere, a spectacular chi-chi fine-dining

ROYAL CHINA Cantonese outfit Royal China with locations across London, Singapore and Shanghai has opened its doors in Dubai. Located in the financial district and decked out in dark wood, rich red velvet and brocades, and the pièce de résistance a floor to ceiling wine display in the bar. Menu choice is varied; dim sum, as well as Cantonese à la Carte, and an impressive tea selection. The menu has been tailored to an international clientele which seems to be the formula for Far Eastern and Asian cuisine dished up outside their country of origin. Royal China boasts 37 choices of dim sum along with all the favourites like crispy aromatic duck, carved and shredded at your table, and served with sliced spring onions, cucumbers and hoi sin sauce all rolled up in pancakes. Royal China is buzzing at lunchtimes, with the DIFC suited and booted business crowd; amongst them quite a few Chinese – always a good indication that the food is authentically good. DIFC The Balcony Precinct Building 4 Tel: 04 354 5543 www.royalchinadubai.ae

BATEAUX DUBAI Amongst the many dhow dinner cruise’s along the creek in Bur Dubai, touting for tourist business, Bateaux Dubai stands out. The boat itself is sleek and plush. Built in Paris, it boasts glass walls, ceiling and the interior is understated. The restaurant offers daily dinner cruises that depart at 8.30pm, giving diners the opportunity to view the creek. Bur Dubai Opposite British Embassy Tel: 04 399 4994 www.bateauxdubai.com CARAMEL RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE Caramel Restaurant & Lounge provides patrons with a young and sophisticated contemporaryAmerican restaurant perfect for a quick bite or business lunch. By night, Caramel Restaurant & Lounge transforms into an exciting and energetic indoor/outdoor ultra-lounge serving flavourful and decadent plates, and offering a full service bar; ideal for unwinding with co-workers or friends for a fun filled night of enjoyment. DIFC, Building 3 Tel: 04 425 6677 CARNEVALE Experience the ambience and exquisitely crafted menu, in the superb surroundings of this fabulous restaurant. The Italians perfected the art of sociable dining and the menu at Carnevale only adds to the experience. Timeless and sophisticated Italian options full of flavour and passion wait to tempt you, complimented by a selection of bold reds and fresh whites, aperitifs and liqueurs.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Dubai Marina Tel: 04 315 3218 www.sheratonjumeirahbeach.com DER KELLER This is one of the oldest restaurants in Dubai, committed to traditional German cuisine made exclusively with fresh seasonal ingredients. The variety of dishes ranges from fresh, healthy salads and vegetarian options to regional specialties along with a wide selection of pork items. A special selection of German beers and wines is exclusively available to accompany your meal. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com DHOW & ANCHOR Dhow & Anchor prides itself on being one of the very few establishments that creatively blends the aura of Arabian heritage with the feel of a classic English pub.Overlooking the majestic waters of the Gulf and the spectacular Burj Al Arab, Dhow & Anchor provides a relaxing and memorable dining experience for those looking to enjoy classic English specialites. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com RIVINGTON GRILL Located in Souk Al Bahar, Downtown.The restaurant’s philosophy is simple British food, served well and without pomp. A starter of seared scallops shows the very best of what the restaurant is capable of. Doors are open for lunch or dinner daily with bar dining available all day, serving a seasonal menu offering the finest dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Indoor or outside terrace Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com

Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 423 0903 www.rivingtongrill.ae

CIAO RESTAURANTS Tutti A La Tavola: Italian chef Gaetano Di Stefano will attend to guests’ table to suggest a selection of appetisers, main courses and desserts. Ciao Ristorante is one of the few places which serve true Italian food here in Dubai. menu includes freshly made pasta as well as other world notable. The perfect place to enjoy true Italian delicacies.

WEST The history of the West unfolds on the walls, and characters beaming with life and lore bring a distinctive American feel to visitors. Other standouts include wafer thin tortillas, smeared with generous dollops of guacamole, sour cream, and folded with sizzling beef, or prawns, and the beef and pork ribs where the tender meat slithers off the bone.

Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com FOCACCIA This was the first Mediterranean restaurant in the Middle East. The concept has often been imitated but never equalled. The setting of a Mediterranean villa built around the turn of the century, Focaccia offers the irresistible flavours of Italy and is a proven favourite of both locals and visitors to Dubai. It’s unique in its concept and authentic, in taste. Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria, Deira Tel: 04 317 2222 www.dubai.regency.hyatt.com BENIHANA Request a seat at the teppanyaki grill, because that’s where all the fun is. The menu offers a number of hearty options including assorted seafood (scallops, prawns and salmon) and the chef will entertain you with the usual gimmicks – banging utensils, getting the grill to breathe fire like a dragon and catching prawn tails in his hat,if you dare. Amwaj Rotana Dubai Marina Tel: 04 428 3089 www.rotana.com SEGRETO At Segreto, the speciality is fine dining. Hidden amongst the summerhouses in a secluded enclave of this majestic city, Segreto is an Italian restaurant of impeccable character. It nestles amidst the waterways and grand Malakiya Villas in the imposing shadow of Al Qasr. Segreto offers sophistication with inimitable refinements. Diners can choose to eat alfresco over the resort’s waterways. Souk Madinat Jumeirah Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com VILLA BEACH RESTAURANT Ranks among Dubai’s best restaurants, cherished for its sunny European cuisine, beachside setting and unsurpassed views of the Burj Al Arab. While more dramatic dining options are now available, La Villa has lost none of its charm, offering heavenly dishes such as the tender beef fillet with oxtail, roasted corn fed chicken and banana toffee cheesecake. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeirah Beach Road Destination Dubai 113

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Tel: 04 348 0000 www.jumeirah.com LA VILLA The Mediterranean sun drenched stucco houses with tile roofs and bouganvilla climbing the walls; ocean waves lapping gently, excellent food. Now picture La Villa, cavernous hotel lobby, cutlery scraping, hushed conversation. The restaurant is actually located on the mezzanine floor of a hotel, so your view is of the lobby down below. The two have only excellent food in common. City Centre Hotel Residence, Deira Tel: 04 294 1222

WAFI GOURMET Connoisseurs of authentic Lebanese Cuisine will find it difficult to ignore the many mouth watering temptations that Wafi Gourmet is famous for. Dining out is not just about food, it is also about the experience that brings out a whole lot of joie de vivre. Wafi Gourmet has truly earned its deserved reputation as the city’s leading Lebanese Restaurant & Delicatessen, offering fine dining and an unparalleled ambiance. The menu is a wish-list for lovers of fresh, delicious food and also features a wide selection of hot and cold beverages, including coffee and fresh fruit juices. A wide variety of mezze, kebabs, shawarma and fish preparations. Continental food is also on offer, as is garden- fresh fruit and vegetables, an array of delicious sweets and pastries, sensational home made ice creams and mounds of the finest olives, cheese and spices. Wafi City Sheikh Rashid Road Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 4433 www.wafi.com

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TRAITEUR Against a backdrop a striking architecture and a magnificent showpiece staircase that connects the restaurant’s two levels with great views of the kitchens, a signature elevated show kitchen that literally positions chefs “on stage”; Traiteur is as much a feast for the eyes as the palate. The lounge, which is suspended from the ceiling, specialises in wines and traditional European aperitifs. Park Hyatt, Deira Tel: 04 317 2222 www.dubai.regency.hyatt.com VIVALDI Located at Dubai Creek, Vivaldi offers diners a combination of authentic pan-Italian cuisine and excellent service. The restaurant has a casual light-hearted atmosphere enhanced in the evenings by live Italian classics courtesy of our in-house Italian duo. Dhows glide past and you get to enjoy some consistently competent Italian cuisine. Starters include roasted figs, and Jabugo ham sprinkled with rocket.

Mina Seyahi Beach Resort Tel: 04 454 709 www.apronsandhammers.com

Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 439 7555 www.margaux.ae

CREEKSIDE With a stylish interior fitted with plush comfortable chairs, dedicated food stations, wall artworks and dazzling lights. Beyond the dramatic entrance, Creekside opens up on to a warm and casual ambience where in one corner diners will see chefs displaying their culinary skills on the teppanyaki tables, as well as long communal tables for lively conversation.

OCEANA RESTURANT Reminiscent of an elegant 1920s cruise ship, the lacquered wood interiors, tall plants and comfortable dining chairs give this Oceana Dubai restaurant a welcoming feel. You will be spoilt for choice with the daily themed dinner and breakfast buffets on offer here. A wide selection of cuisines are available from around the world on various evenings throughout the week.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, Deira Tel: 04 228 1111 www.sheraton.com/dubai FAZARIS Fazaris is a restaurant with a difference. The cosmopolitan blend of Asian, Indian, Arabic and Mediterranean cuisines places the restaurant among Dubai’s highly regarded choices for any meal. Enjoy superb cuisine in the main dining area or the outdoor terrace looking towards Burj Khalifa, where clean lines and an array of colorful design features combine into an unforgettable dining venue. The Address Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 888 3444 www.theaddress.com

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Deira Tel: 04 207 1717

KARMA CAFÉ DUBAI Karma Café Dubai Restaurant/ Bar/Loungewith opulent décor and striking rich atmosphere Karma Café creates a monumental setting theiris distinctive from other restaurants in Dubai. At the heart of the restaurant, a large Buddha presides over the dining area. The venue caters to the distinguished palate with an AsianCalifornian fusion-inspired menu consisting of unique flavours that tantalize the taste buds.

INTERNATIONAL

Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 423 0909 www.karma-kafe.com

APRONS AND HAMMER Soak up the warm, friendly Aprons & Hammers experience. The secret recipe. Just-caught freshness and generous portions. What’s more, chefs prepare each dish with signature herbs and spicy marinades, featuring creatively upto-date flavour combinations. Beyond that... it’s a secret. Pssst! Did we mention the lovely selection of wines and frosty buckets of imported beers?

MARGAUX RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Margaux Restaurant and Lounge is the perfect venue to relax, chill and socialise over delicious tapas and cocktails while overlooking the spectacular view of the Dubai Fountain. The chef, Julian Mercier is trained under the Michelin studded Alain Ducasse. Signature dishes include: Caesar salad bites, wagyu beef rolls, beef tartar chilled rare tuna and a varied selection of imported drinks.

Dubai International Marina Club

Souk Al Bahar,

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah The Dubai Marina Tel: 04 318 2540 www.hilton.com NEZESAUSSI Major sports events are televised and as a result Nezesaussi is recognized as the city’s number one sports-lovers destination for a bite or a drink. The grill offers meals typical of the Boerewors (traditional South African sausage made with a blend of herbs and spices) the best tender steaks and lamb as only tasted Down Under. A lively crowd along with music played in the background adds to the atmosphere. Al Manzil Hotel Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 428 5888 www.al-manzil-hotel-dubai.com BBQ DONUT This is a novel dining experience: for the uninitiated, it involves a small doughnut-shaped dinghy with a barbecue station built into the centre. Diners are given a cool box full of food and are sent floating off down the creek. You get grilled meat, seafood and vegetable skewers while steering the boat. A wonderful way to see Dubai from the creek. The Boardwalk, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Deira Tel: 04 295 6000 www.dubaigolf.com OTTOMANS For those wishing to enjoy al fresco dining and an exotic outside shisha lounge during the cooler months ahead, Ottomans has opened the doors to its opulent themed terrace area. Ottomans has become fast renowned throughout Dubai for serving up the finest in modern Turkish cuisine, including mouth watering contemporary dishes, accompanied by live music from the restaurant’s traditional Arabic musicians.

Grosvenor House Dubai The Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com PALM GARDEN RESTAURANT Dine in a casual chic environment, where the palm theme is echoed in the furnishings and mirrored by views of the landscaped gardens surrounding the outdoor terrace. This restaurant boasts of having one of the best restaurant themed nights in Jumeirah Beach. Travel the world over dinner and indulge in delicious meals ranging from Lebanese, to German and Indian.

ASHA’S An innovative style of Indian Restaurant combining traditional north western cuisine, knowledgeable staff, authentic uniforms and a contemporary design in a buzzing environment! Asha Bhosle the legendary Indian artiste selected Dubai as the location for the first restaurant to open in her restaurant chain. At Asha’s, let the kebab based menu tempt you – enjoy succulent meats flavoured with herbs and spices or a wide variety of vegetarian options to delight your palate. A family dining area with children’s play area and an amazing terrace feature strongly at Asha’s, making it an attractive dining option with something to appeal to everyone. Wafi City Sheikh Rashid Road, Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 4433 www.wafi.com

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers The Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 5533 www.sheratonjumeirahbeach.com SLOANES This vibrant, classy and stylish international restaurant boasts some of the finest cuisine in town, not to mention the most impressive views of Dubai Marina, which diners can enjoy from its beautiful terrace. However the focal point of Sloane’s has to be its spectacular open show kitchen where each chef attends to their area of speciality and serves alluring dishes. Grosvenor House Dubai The Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com THE WHARF Classic fresh ingredients are used to serve up generous portions of traditional English comfort food with an international touch. At The Wharf you are always welcome to meet, relax, unwind, be yourself and enjoy – This is what The Wharf is all about. With live music every Wednesday to Saturday evenings, the setting is the perfect venue for a relaxing drink Mina A’ Salam Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com TCHAIKOVSKY Experience a Russian restaurant-lounge with a nightly cabaret act and a classical violin playing in the background. The venue’s garish grandiose, regal wallpaper, thick midnight blue carpeting, and touches of gold skirting and overly elaborate table settings are a genuine attempt at sophistication. The service is very good, the staff very warm, friendly and a very comfortable evening out.

Marina Byblos Hotel The Dubai Marina Tel: 04 448 2222 THE GRAMERCY Where casual conversation, delightful cuisine and an easy going vibe find themselves in perfect balance. Be it the wafting scents emanating from the kitchen or the lingering tones of the saxophone player backed by a slick jazz singer. All helping to create a great time out, odds on you’ve found yourself at the Gramercy before the nights played out. DIFC Precinct Building 3 Tel: 04 437 7511 www.thegramercybar.com 101 Sweeping panoramic views of the Gulf and Dubai skyline beyond, the striking 101 restaurant with al fresco dining opens onto a fashionable overwater chill-out lounge with daybeds, beach-side tables and bar. Conceived with a very unique identity of its own, the restaurant call for a celebration of its setting on the water, and emphasis is the indoor-outdoor lounge setting. One & Only The Palm Palm Jumeirah Tel: 04 440 1010 www.thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.com 24-7 MANHATTAN 24-7 Manhattan presents a contemporary and chic venue for hotel guests of Hawthorn Hotel and visitors. It exudes a feeling of simple pleasures of dining with friends or family in this considerable space where elegant tables with white cloths are all over the area, encompassed by the lightly toned walls. The interior design is straight forward, clean and unfussy. Hawthorn Hotel Al Rigga Road, Deira www.hawthorn-deira.com HARD ROCK CAFE` This sizeable venue is awash with novelty value, whether it’s the ridiculously over-the-top burgers (some in a good way, others not so much), a fantastic range of music memorabilia adorning the walls, or the all-singing, alldancing staff who also seem to be trained in the art of friendly wisecracks. Guests as well as group bookings are advised to book their tables early. Festival Centre Dubai Festival City

Tel: 04 232 8900 LE PETITE MAISON The home of Cuisine Nicoise, whose origins lie in old Genoese cooking, is the old town of Nice in France. Local produce, notably artichokes, courgettes, lemons, olives, tomatoes, peppers and girolles are used generously with sea food, meat and fresh pasta to produce a style that’s light and healthy. Gate Village 08 DIFC Tel: 04 439 0505 www.lpmdubai.ae WEST 14 th NEW YORK GRILL & BAR West 14th suggests that it stands for everything ‘New York Prime’. And, it does a very good job at living up to this vision. Mr West struts his stuff in full view of diners. Whatever the weather, the hierarchy of chefs chop, steam and grill away in a salsa-like rhythm, somehow never missing a beat between them. West 14th New York Grill & Bar At the Oceana Beach Club on The Palm Jumeirah Tel 04 447 7601 www.west14th.ae

SOUTH AMERICAN LATITUDE Just off the lobby, positioned along the sea-facing side of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Latitude is a family-friendly eatery with a buffet, bearing dishes from Mongolia to Mexico.The sweetest indulgence is gourmet creativity making every occasion one to treasure with crafted cakes, desserts and freshly baked breads. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com LA PARILA Argentine restaurant inside Dubai’s landmark wave-shape resort impressively re-creates the theme of the Argentine pampas. Plantation estate furniture fills the dining space, where cartwheels and other country-themed decorations cover the walls. The main reminder that this is not South America.The 25th-floor panoramic view of the Arabian Gulf is stunning and along with the food should not be missed. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com Destination Dubai 115

Tel: 04 399 3333 www.lemeridien-minaseyahi.com

Bars & Nightclubs

Hed Kandi There is an abundance of cutesy candy pink at this attractive, upscale rooftop bar on the fourth floor of the Shangri-La Hotel. Palms and white fabric add to the mood of Arabian nights spliced with LA glitz and a little piece of Miami Beach. The place is full of pretty people clustered around the hotel’s pool deck with their cocktails.

From the highest bar in the world to drinks out to sea, Dubai’s bars and nightclubs really do offer world class views. Global DJs arrive most weeks to rock the crowds during the cooler months. You can choose from backstreet rock bars to dancing on the sand under the stars.

IRISH VILLAGE Located opposite the Aviation Club of Dubai, the Irish Village is a large Irish pub and is one of the few places that you can drink alcohol without having to go to a hotel. A pint of beer will cost 17 Dhs, and they have seating both indoors and outdoors. They have managed to reproduce an authentic Irish pub feel. Garhoud, Dubai Tel: 04 282 4750 www.irishvillage.ae. KASBAR The club has followed the design of the hotel and has an Arabic theme, with most of the decorations coming from palaces around Morocco, which really takes you into another world and a definite must if you are from out of town. The high profile club is built up on three levels with terraces that overlook the dance floor below. One & Only Royal Mirage Jumeirah Tel: 04 399 9999 www.royalmirage.oneandonlyresorts.com CARTER’S Carter’s a very stylish bar, that offers betterdeals than anywhere else in Dubai. Located inside the pyramid complex, at Wafi City, this stylish bar named after the famous Egyptologist Howard Carter opens for lunch at 12 and closes its’ doors at 2 am (and 3 am Thursdays). As the evening progresses the restaurant transforms itself into a bar. Wafi City Bur Dubai 116 Destination Dubai

Tel: 04 324 4100 www.wafi.com 360 Positioned at the end of a pier, this venue has lined up a string of international DJs that are sure to keep the crowds coming back. Next to the Burj Al Arab, it also boasts one of the citie’s best views creating a vibe, where you can chill to the cool house tunes playing until the early morning. Jumeirah Hotel Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com ARMANI PRIVE Armani Privé captures the essence of the luxury brand within a nightclub venue; exclusive, luxurious, selective, personalised and meticulously designed providing the highest level of service and entertainment.The Armani Prive experience will not only capture your attention with every minor detail but will also capture your imagination leaving you with an experience that will be remembered for a long time. Armani Hotel Dubai Tel: 04 888 3308 www.armanihotels.com SENYAR BAR Senyar Bar in Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. Spread over two floors, it’s a gleaming, almost clinical white space warmed with splashes of coloured lights – both the bar stools and the curving banquettes are scarlet. The cocktail list has been complied with care and an eye for

the imaginative; sit back and be entertained by the DJ spinning the latest dance hits. Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Tel: 04 511 7136 www.westinminaseyahi.com SHO CHO BAR Trendy, hip Japanese restaurant and lounge. Not to mention its sparsely designed interior. Just by the sea the ambience is cool, seductive and a place to be seen. Lit in glowing blue neon, furnished with cream leather space age chairs. Food speciality is Sushi, as you would expect a DJ spinning and expect a young and trendy clientele. Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Al Sofouh Road, Jumeirah www.dxbmarine.com Tel: 04 346 1111 NASIMI BEACH Day-through-night venue of Nasimi Beach is both lifestyle brand and trendsetter playground; the ultimate fusion of entertainment with fashion, one of the greatest bar scenes in Dubai with quality dining. The incomparable beachfront location includes fully-serviced beach facilities with sun loungers, cabanas and day beds, plus culinary delights of Sushi and Sashimi and Dubai’s good-looking set.

Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 343 8888 www.shangri-la.com

Dubai, where you’ll discover a beautiful wraparound terrace on the second floor spread with Persian carpets and stylish cane sofas. Hidden in the Mina A’ Salam Hotel within the sprawling Madinat Jumeirah Resort, it’s the perfect spot to take in the peaceful scenes of the boats passing by the canal. Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com BOUDOIR If you’re in Dubai, for business or pleasure, there’s one bar you won’t want to miss. Boudoir is as opulent as it gets. Nothing is understated or subtle about it, but then this isn’t an understated or subtle city. The look of the bar evokes the world of the French Court when luxury was everything, and pleasures were never guilty. Al Sufouh Road Jumeirah Tel: 04 345 5995 www.myboudoir.com

Atlantis the Palm Tel: 04 426 0000 www.atlantisthepalm.com

BARASTI Located in the heart of Dubai Marina, Barasti benefits from a superb beach location. Laidback, welcoming and sun-soaked, the reasons for this bar’s popularity are not rocket science. Even with a recent refit almost doubling the place in size, it still gets packed out with a cool, casual crowd most nights of the week, with people enjoying the multiple pleasures of Barasti.

BANRI BARI Bahri Bar is one of the best outdoor bars in

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Jumeirah

JUNA LOUNGE Make sure you book ahead before a night of quality cocktails at the Juna Lounge. It’s so popular they’ve been known to turn away many people at the entrance. An intimate and luxurious lounge on the mezzanine level of the spectacular Burj Al Arab, it’s done up with thick cushions and attractive bright sofas. Burj Al Arab Hotel, Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 301 7600 www.jumeirah.com 400 CLUB This exclusive nightspot takes its name from the fact it has a capacity 400, exactly. Queues can usually be seen outside waiting to see if they’ll make it past the ropes. Those who do make the cut will find a lavish interior, baroque in style, with glittering lights and a DJ. It’s very much a see-and-be-seen venue. The Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 332 4900 www.fairmont.com THE JETTY LOUNGE Housed in chic Arabian architecture with contemporary interiors, the Jetty Lounge is not a restaurant as such but an elegant beachside lounge bar. Beverages and wines are complemented by a selection of light snacks such as mezzeh, quiches, Spanish ham and cheeses as well as dips and Asian-inspired platters. The mood is laid back, with sophisticated chill out lounge music. One & Only Royal Mirage, Jumeirah Tel: 04 399 9999 www.royalmirage.oneandonlyresorts.com CAVALLI Bringing a lifestyle concept to Dubai, Cavalli remains true to every element of Roberto Cavalli’s style. From the Swarovski crystal adorned

walls to the shiny black quartz flooring, the opulent space exudes luxury, sophistication and glamour. The Cavalli Club draws a clientele that is prestigious and elite. On the top floor, you can enjoy a selection of culinary delights. The Fairmont Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 332 5555 www.fairmont.com KOUBBA Koubba is a gem in the Madinat Jumeirah complex belonging to Al Qasr Hotel. It’s a cozy lounge bar with a beautiful terrace atmosphere and views over Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah’s canals. Enter through the magnificent lobby with its gigantic crystal chandelier and grand mosaic, and have a drink on the soft cushions at sunset while viewing Dubai. UPTOWN BAR There is pretty much one reason to visit this bar, and that’s the view. Stepping out of the cosy interior bar – which itself has a fine view of the Burj Al Arab you’ll find yourself gazing down at an extraordinary panoramic view of Jumeirah, with roads receding to vanishing point and the Burj Dubai skyline glowing on the horizon. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Tel: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com VU’S BAR The magnificent view, Downtown to the north, and the Marina to the south—should get accolades, but the modern cathedral-like space and its striking clientele keep the eye focused inside. Try the 51st Floor house cocktail: so deliciously strong we forgot to ask what it was. But if you can’t find it, don’t worry –there are 200 cocktails to choose from! Jumeirah Emirates Towers Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 319 8088 www.jumeirah.com THE BUDDHA BAR The Buddha Bar global juggernaut is unstoppable. Though the format is familiar to many now, it still has the power to wow. Its Dubai incarnation is a case in point. This place is impressive in every sense. Walk through the doors and you are launched into an imposing multi-level interior: plush carpets and glittering chandeliers plus the vast Buddha statute. Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

Z:ONE A fresh, vibrant hang-out, Z:ONE lounge bar can be found in Media One’s Hotel lobby offering cool twists on favourite Asian bar bites and impressive cocktails , including a DJ playing to a friendly neighbourhood crowd. It’s been a long while since a pub raised the bar, or at least the seating. Open every day from 11 am until 1 am. Media One Hotel Tel: 04 427 1000 Media City www.mediaonehotel.com BALCONY BAR There’s an old colonial feel to the Shangri-La’s balcony bar. The interior feature is a rich, coffee coloured wood, black leather armchairs, a panelled ceiling and oriental rugs aplenty. It’s all very elegant in a rather masculine manner. As the name suggests, the bar overlooks the chic hotel lobby; there’s a drinks list featuring the usual suspects, classic and cocktails. Grosvenor House Dubai Marina Tel: 04 405 2703 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com BAR 44 No prize for guessing which floor of Dubai’s Grosvenor House Hotel Bar 44 is located on. It’s high up – 44 floors high up - and is therefore blessed with superb views over Dubai’s ever shifting, ever developing skyline. The décor is low-key retro with deep leather bucket chairs. Service is exemplary, whisper quick, efficient with music in the background. Grosvenor House Hotel Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com TRILOGY Trilogy is a nightclub located in the Jumeirah district. Dubai is already known for it’s high end club scene where the beautiful people like to hang. Trilogy is a great choice for you to have fun in Dubai. The club has 2 floors and a rooftop that is more attuned to a lounge area despite the pounding dance music. Souk Madinat Jumeirah Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6917 www.jumeirah.com ZINC Dubai is really a colourful city when it comes to having a night out. In addition Zinc provides

action in large amount of music, dance and entertainment. Located on the ground floor of Crowne Plaza, Zinc is one of the biggest clubs in town. The club has various theme nights playing different kinds of music from r&b, dance music, house and techno. Crowne Plaza Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 331 1111 www.crowneplaza.com N’DULGE N’dulge is the concept of The Atlantis Hotel. The weekend events focus around an exceptional level of entertainment featuring circus performers, magicians, themed actors and dancers with themed decor uniquely transforming the space.Sleek furniture alongside sofas and armchairs and 2 new bespoke communal tables, this new ultra-lounge combines a sexy outlook with the latest up front dance music. Atlantis Hotel the Palm Palm Jumeirah www.atlantisthepalm.com TORA TORA Decorated in striking orange tones with a dramatic floor-to-ceiling fireplace, Toro Toro by famed South America Chef Richard Sandoval spans over two floors on the Marina’s edge. Poised to turn up the heat considerably in the city’s dining scene, it pioneers tastes from Buenos Aires to São Paulo and a multitude of Pan Latin dining experiences with an infinite Cachaça Bar. Grosvenor House Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com SIDDHARTA LOUNGE Mediterranean and Asian flavours with futuristic sounds in a modish and sophisticated ambience, sublime dining awaits at Siddharta. Arrive through an exclusive entrance leading to its level 4 location. Lounge around the pool; soak up the sun or just gaze at the stars. This venue is set to be the playground of the crème de la crème of Dubai society. Grosvenor House Dubai Marina Tel: 04 399 8888 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com Destination Dubai 117

BARS & NIGHTCLUBS

CROSSROADS COCKTAIL BAR Located on the third floor with a spectacular view over the Raffles Sky Garden, Crossroads Cocktail Bar offers contemporary and award winning cocktails of the highest standards. Dress Code: Smart Casual/Elegant.The bar housing this Dubai cocktail is a Balinese inspired indoor/outdoor affair called Crossroads. A sumptuous affair boasting an extensive (and expensive) array of drinks, the bar offers over 45 specialist rums and tequilas which we’re assured are unique to Dubai. With panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline outside, plus a cosy semi-circlular bar at which you can strike up a conversation with one of the highly knowledgeable bar-staff inside. Raffles Dubai Wafi City Sheikh Rashid Road Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 4100 www.wafi.com

BLISS LOUNGE Bliss Lounge is one of the swankiest lounge bars, serving the hippest crowd in Dubai. Located in Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort this venue gives you the best chill out afternoons and upbeat nights. Resident DJ Joseph mixes the best of chill and deep house music. Bliss combines the contemporary setting by the beach in the beautiful surroundings of Jumeirah Beach.

CHINA MOON CHAMPAGNE BAR The Raffles Hotel exclusive Champagne Bar is available to residents only. China Moon Champagne Bar offers one of the finest selections of champagnes in Dubai, with many vintages being exclusive to Raffles Dubai and award winning cocktails. China Moon Champagne Bar offers a perfect setting on the 19th floor with a range of Raffles Cigars and Raffles Caviar. Dress Code: Elegant.

LEFT BANK Left Bank is a sophisticated contemporary lounge, bar and restaurant. A trendy meeting place that combines style with a relaxed atmosphere and cool music, Left Bank is known for its creative casual dining menu and for pouring the best cocktails in town. Left Bank’s contemporary chic personality is reflected in the bars’ interiors and the various locations where they are situated.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort Al Sufouh Road Tel: 04 399 5533

Raffles Dubai Wafi City Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 4100 www.wafi.com

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Souk Al Bahar Tel: 04 368 6171 Tel: 04 368 4501

BLUE BAR One of the few authentic jazz bars in Dubai. Showcasing some genuine local talent this venue is located on the ground floor of the businesslike Novotel, Blue Bar combines fashionable dé cor, cigars and an ambience that is rare in Dubai. A noisy and slightly older crowd awaits you in this relaxed and endearing venue. Call for information on performances and schedules. Novotel World Trade Centre Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 332 0000 www.novotel.com CHI@THE LODGE Chi the Lodge (AKA Chi @ the Lodge) can host over 3000 people on a regular basis and offers the only ‘Miami Style’ outdoor clubbing experience like no other club in Dubai or the Middle East. Experience 4 different clubs within one venue with various acts like Tiesto,Akon, Groove Armada, Basement Jaxx, Jay Sean, and more gracing this venue. 2A St Bur Dubai (Next to Al-NasrLeisureland, Oud Metha) Tel: 04 337 9470 www.chinightclubdubai.com CIN CIN The chic wine bar with avant-garde style has become a true destination for the urban set. The impressive beverage list showcases over 350 international labels. The food is a mixture of international delicacies. The interior is based on a contemporary theme that is consistent throughout with intricate floor designs, plush furniture, reflective white panelling and a wide selection of cigars. Fairmont Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 311 8316 www.fairmont.com

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CIRCUE DU SOIR The London original of the Cirque Du Soir arrives at the former 400 Club. It’s a high end circus themed experience with flame - throwers, jugglers, clowns, snake-charmers, contortionists and magicians, who perform to the music in the background which is provided by Cirque Du Soir’s resident DJ, who will play an eclectic mix of up front house and R&B. Fairmont Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 332 4900 www.cirquedusoirdubai.com DIABLO You could say this venue is the new kid on the block as far as reputation is concerned. The club has been described as unique, stylish and glamorous along with a stage hosting international acts that make regular appearances, a booming sound system,an impressive light show with the best party anthems and a mixture of R&B and house music. Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel The Gardens Tel: 04 444 6666 www.diablonightclub.com JAMBASE Head downstairs to the basement to find Jambase, the Supper Club. The passion for music and creativity in the kitchen are a hallmark of people from southern regions - think Latin America, southern Europe and the vibrancy of South Africa. You will find such an eclectic mix in Jambase the ideal location for drinks or dinner before a night of revellery. Souk Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com

MAHIKI With its tiki décor and delicious fruit cocktails a night out here is unique in every respect. Mahiki prides itself on its friendly, fun atmosphere and the attention. A host of celebrity friends of Mahiki have joined us for cocktails and fun times! Liam Gallagher and Katherine Jenkins are a few who have partied here.

catering to discerning fish and meat lovers, as well as vegetarians alike.For the first time, “cutting” edge service, style, and design are combined with a see-and-be-seen atmosphere that is set to revolutionise the Dubai restaurant scene and elevate it to a whole new level. The Monarch Dubai Hotel Mezzanine Level One Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 501 8777

M-DEK The M-DEK terrace at Media One Hotel is where trendsetters mingle and socialise. Featuring breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline, luxurious cabanas, and a range of beverages and mixed platters. Time stands still when you chill out at M-DEK, Media One Hotel during the week, yet it steps up a notch to become one of Dubai’s hot spots at the weekend.

EL MALECON This Cuban restaurant/bar provides an exceptional combination of dining and entertainment. On the menu is typical Cuban cuisine with a fusion of international styles. The bar area provides live Latino entertainment every night with a no holds barred attitude to entertainment making this the place to visit if you don’t want a quiet evening out. There is no doubt El Malecon is one of the most established Latin influenced venues in the region. This graffiti spawned venue is also unique in offering Latin flavoured drinks and more importantly salsa music and dancing. The crowd is friendly,enthusiastic, and energetic and there is also the opportunity to take part in salsa classes along with an instructor earlier in the evening and a live band performing with a DJ every night.

Media One Hotel Media City Tel: 04 427 1000 www.mediaonehotel.com

Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa Tel: 0 4 346 1111 www.malecondubai.com

Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 055 2160181 www.mahiki.ae

NEW ASIA BAR & CLUB As one of the only clubs in Dubai not to charge entry, the ethos is to stay for a great and long time. A huge Egyptian head welcomes you and mixologists will whip up a homegrown invention called Dubai Sling. A sophisticated crowd makes it to the top of the pyramid of the ultra-plush Raffles hotel, where the views are stunning. Raffles Dubai Wafi City, Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 4100 www.wafi.com OKKU Introducing a new style of contemporary Japanese cuisine to the Middle East dining scene

PEOPLE BY CRYSTAL People by Crystal is an explosion of glamour and extravagance located at the tip of the fivestar Raffles Dubai pyramid. Huge windows with magnificent panoramic views of Dubai can easily get lost amid the gold decor, white leather seating and illuminated dance floors make up the club’s interior. And that’s not to mention the flashing light shows, live music acts, confetti that regularly pours from the ceiling or the huge metal gorillas at the door. You can safely expect a packed house and a lively atmosphere. Raffles Hotel Dubai Wafi City Oud Metha Tel: 050 297 2097 Sheikh Rashid Road REPUBLIQUE An amazingly popular venue and well liked. You don’t have to dress to impress and everyone is generally very nice.A shiny disco ball welcomes you– a great touch of nostalgia when in the old days a disco ball reflected music and fun. A great atmosphere, spreads through the two- floored club that seats 400 guests. The Address, Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 438 8888 www.clubrepublique.com SAVAGE GARDEN For those with a flair for all things exotic, Savage Garden brings to the floor a cosy LatinAmerican tavern with a tropical atmosphere, juicy Argentinean style grills. A live band helps the night along and the occasional Salsa nights for dance lovers are scheduled throughout the week. This is a popular nightspot small but intimate with great ambience and atmosphere. Capitol Hotel Satwa Tel: 04 346 0111 www.capitol-hotel.com

SKYVIEW BAR The Skyview bar is set on the Burj’s 27th floor, suspended 200 metres above sea level. Getting inside the Burj Al Arab is a must-do for all visitors to Dubai.It’s Dubai’s first truly iconic building, the desert city’s answer to the Eiffel Tower or the Empire State Building and The Skyview bar is simply the icing on the cake.

a sushi bar, a wine cellar and an exclusive garden seating area; a sophisticated entertainment lounge specialising in cocktails. Start your evening early at the European style café bar and garden where you can enjoy an array of international beverages at the stylish bar and a DJ playing soul and funky house.

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 301 7600 www.jumeirah.com

Le Méridien Dubai Garhoud Tel: 04 217 0000 Airport Road www.diningatmeridiendubai.com

TRADER VIC’S With locations around the world, Trader Vic’s is a family of restaurants, united by four cornerstones: Decor, Food, Drinks, and Service. Combined, these define the Trader Vic’s brand and create the Trader Vic’s experience. Essentially this place is a happy idiot’s conception of a 1950s American tiki bar. Obviously, these joints are well known for their sugar-cane-derived drinkables.

XL BEACH CLUB Habtoor Grand’s beach club is a fun to lounge or party the night away. Amongst the low white sofas, towels, the pool, beach seats your entertained by a DJ on stage. The area is surrounded by private cabanas, complete with their own Jacuzzi, lounge and bathroom. you can expect to see a lot of beautiful people and a very mixed party crowed.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Al Sufouh Road Tel: 04 366 5646 www.tradervics.com THE MUSIC ROOM The Music Room has become synonymous with quality live music in Dubai. Its unwavering fan base continues to grow and people are undoubtedly loving this unique style of venue housed remarkable events such as concerts by ‘The Proclaimers’ and ‘The Heavy’, an album launch by ‘Jonas Desai’ and countless theme nights steadily becoming a leading music venue in Dubai. Majestic Hotel, Deira www.themusicroomdubai.com RED LOUNGE TERRACE You’ll be seeing red at the top of Raffles. The decor is red; many of the drinks are red. Red lounge terrace serves creative dim sum and innovative cocktails in a sky bar setting. you can expect a very trndy fashionable crowd and a selection of the best in dance music. Raffles Hotel Dubai Wafi City Oud Metha Sheikh Rashid Road Tel: 04 324 8888 www.raffles.com WAREHOUSE A combination of four bars, two restaurants,

The Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marina Tel: 056 640 6161 Al Sufouh Road www.grandjumeirah.habtoorhotels.com ZUMA Zuma has fast become an institution in Dubai. It has a contemporary Japanese menu, but it continues to offer the staples, like sushi and tempura, and even when preparing these basics, the chefs delight us with the high quality and fine cuts of fish. The venue is beautifully designed and well laid out. A resident DJ provides the beat driven and infectious music. DIFC Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 425 5660 www.zumarestaurant.com BLENDS Enjoy the glow of the Marina’s urban landscape from this spectacular fourth floor lounge. Chic and vibrant, Blends is a fresh mix of three innovative experiences in one stylish setting. The trendy lounge serves a fine selection of bubbly and vintages from around the world displayed in modern floor to ceiling cellars. At the weekends Blends doubles up as a nightclub as well as Shades a outside chill out area . The Address The Dubai Marina Tel: 04 436 7777 www.theaddress.com Destination Dubai 119

Art Galleries Dubai’s art scene has exploded in recent years, with galleries devoted to Middle Eastern art, photography and contemporary art. Head to DIFC for slick shows or the Al Quoz area to find art galleries from converted industrial spaces. For a taste of Dubai’s history, head down to the Bur Dubai to learn how a small pearling village evolved into the cosmopolitan city you see today.

THE ARA GALLERY The Ara Gallery is purely focused on giving aspiring Arab artists a platform where their talents will be showcased to the region and the world, thereby providing them with the opportunity to establish themselves in the ever-growing middle eastern art market. At The Ara Gallery, you can take part in art-related dialogue, discussions, workshops and view locally produced artist exhibitions. Emaar Boulevard Downtown Dubai Tel: 04 454 2784 www.aragallery.ae ARTSPACE GALLERY The gallery’s diverse clientele includes private collectors, art consultants, interior designers as well as business-people, diplomatic and social VIPs. Artspace Gallery offers the client an extraordinary opportunity to acquire and taste some of the most contemporary middle eastern art. Every three weeks, artist’s artworks are exhibited, ranging from paintings to sculpture and the gallery has begun to branch out regionally. Dubai International Financial Center The Gate Village Bldg. 3, Level 2 Tel: 04 323 0820 www.artspace-dubai.com CHRISTIE’S In May 2006, art market history was made when Christie’s held its first auction of International Modern & Contemporary Art in the Middle East. Christie’s has gone on to sell over US$200 million worth of art in Dubai alone. Christie’s, Dubai has gone on to establishe itself 120 Destination Dubai

as an international auction centre alongside Geneva, Hong Kong, New York and London. Office Gate Village, Building 5, Podium Level Dubai International Financial Centre Viewing Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 425 5647 www.christies.com FLYING COLOURS ART GALLERY Introduces new artists from around the world and promotes UAE based artists .The aim is to bring in functional art in the form of mostly original paintings and digital versions of the same that will appeal to art lovers whether they are corporate offices, hotels or private collectors. As such, regardless of your budget, they will have something for everyone. Apex Atrium Bulding in Motor City Tel: 04 453 4979 www.flyingcolorsgallery.com GALLERY ONE (g-1) Gallery One (g-1) grew from a single 350 square foot store in Dubai to an international group and major online portal. The aim is to be the world’s most, useable and successful portal for the purchase of photography and photographics for home and investment purposes. They are ambitious and want g-1 to be in major cities all over the world. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 1252 www.g-1.com

GREEN ART GALLERY Green Art Gallery was amongst the first galleries to exhibit Arab art in Dubai. The Gallery played a vital role in introducing modern Arab art to the city and in nurturing the city’s earliest collector base. Promoting the works of the region’s generation of pioneering artists from across the Middle East and North Africa including Iraq, Lebanon, UAE, and Morocco. Al Quoz 1, Street 8 Al Serkal Avenue Unit 28 Tel: 04 346 9305 www.gagallery.com MEEM GALLERY Meem Gallery has established itself as a leading specialist in the Arab and Iranian art world. The gallery’s aim is to promote the work of modern and contemporary Middle Eastern artists.The gallery distinguished itself by gaining exclusive representation rights in Dubai for the work of Ali Omar Ermes and Nja Mahdaoui, bringing their art to the Emirates for the first time. Umm Suqeim Rd Tel: 04 347 7883 www.meemgallery.com MONDO ARTE GALLERY Mondo Arte Gallery has the most beautiful oil paintings on canvas. Their artists handpaint everything from reproductions of the world’s most famous artistic masterpieces to customized oil paintings. They have a huge inventory of the world’s finest oil paintings that include Impressionist and Renaissance art, as well as themed

paintings, including Mediterranean, seascape, animal, landscape, portrait and historical art. Mall of the Emirates The Galleria Tel: 04 341 3001 www.mondoarte.net MIRAJ ISLAMIC ART CENTRE Miraj holds a fantastic collection of Islamic art objects from silver, metalware and marble, to intricate astrolabes, painstakingly crafted carpets and textiles, and displays of calligraphy and engraving. Just up the road is Saga World a souk-style, high-end department store, where you can buy a range of Middle Eastern and Indian handcraft products similar to those on display in the gallery. Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah www.mirajislamicartcentre.com Tel: 04 394 1084 PORT OF CALL GALLERY This gallery focuses on oriental arts - from far eastern countries such as China and Japan. Over the past few years the gallery has experienced valuable growth while travelling to the far east looking for pieces of furniture, ceramics and textiles. The antiques and collectibles that are on display at Port of Call are aesthetically pleasing and are of great quality. Al Attar Business Tower Sheikh Zayed Road Near DIFC Tel: 04 332 6006 www.portofcallgallery.com TRAFFIC A stylish multi-disciplinary art and design prac-

tice, which features a gallery, store and studio. Work is displayed from established designers as well as up and coming talents in the field, while the store sells a wide range of aesthetically pleasing items, from small items such as cutlery through to inspirational furniture and a variety of art related work. 179 Umm Suqeim Rd Al Quoz Industrial 4 www.viatraffic.org

Art Sawa In 2008, the Art Sawa project began to find its roots in Dubai’s multi-cultural dynamism. Amidst the skyline of this incredible city it was still difficult to find Art, and yet it was perceved that there was a longing for art and culture that remained unmet. Filled with a passion for art and the promotion of talent, and despite difficult odds Amel B. Makkawi, owner and director, set out to create an art platform that would provide artists from the region with a space where they could present their work; a space of sufficient size and quality to create its own dynamic. Art Sawa embodies all of Amel’s aspirations for art in this part of the world; it is the largest addition to Dubai’s bustling art scene. Offering 12,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art space, Art Sawa is dedicated to promoting world-class contemporary art to a global and regional audience. Art Sawa has recently decided to expand its presence to what has become the must see art destination in Dubai, namely the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to be closer to its collector base. Al Quoz Tel: 04 340 8660 www.artsawa.com Dubai International Financial Center Tel: 04 386 2366 www.artsawa.com

THE MAJLIS GALLERY A haven for artists and art lovers The Majlis Gallery grew out of a love affair between an expatriate lady and a very special house. Alison Collins came to Dubai in 1976 to work as an interior designer. She fell in love with the country, especially with the architecture and the ambiance of the old wind tower houses in the Bastakia. Al Musalla Roundabout Bastakiya Bur Dubai Tel: 04 353 6233 www.themajlisgallery.com THE MOJO GALLERY The Mojo Gallery isa multifunctional art space that brings together several creative forms, Art, design and new media. As a gallery, Mojo focuses on exhibitions that explore contemporary expressions and concepts in fine art and design through multiple mediums and formats that encompass more than classical genres. Including original paintings, conceptual photography, digital media, works on paper, prints and illustrations. The Mojo Gallery Al Serkal Avenue Tel: 04 347 7388 www.themojogallery.com THIRD LINE The Third Line is an art gallery in Dubai, with a focus on promote contemporary middle eastern art and artists locally, regionally and internationally. In addition to monthly exhibitions, the gallery hosts and organises non-profit alternative programe. Artists participating include Babak Golkar, Slavs and Tatars, Hayv Kahraman, PouranJinchi, Joana Hadji thomas and KhalilJoreige and many more.

Nguyen, who has founded and managed the gallery since January 2007. The gallery was opened concurrent with the global upswing. The gallery is spread over two floors and has a beautiful space of over 4500 sqt, displaying stunning artworks from more than 25 artists from Vietnam. Villa 833b, Al Wasl Road Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah Tel: 04 395 5811 www.theredgallery.net THE JAM JAR The Jam Jar is a creative space that works to promote artists and support Dubai’s art scene through its extensive arts programme, educational initiatives, and community projects. The 4000 sq. ft. studio and gallery offers the region’s first public DIY painting studio with year round exhibitions and events presenting work in visual art, film, music, theatre, photography and more. RKM Properties, St. 17a, Al Quoz 3 Tel: 04 341 7303 www.thejamjardubai.com THE EMPTY QUARTER The Empty Quarter - Fine Art Photography is the only gallery in Dubai devoted to fine art photography and serves a rapidly growing membership of artists and photo enthusiasts. The goal is to expand the understanding and appreciation of photography as an artistic medium. The gallery deals with young, emerging and established photographers. Discover and celebrate Dubai International Financial Centre DIFC Gate Village Tel: 04 323 1210 www.theemptyquarter.com PROART GALLERY ProArt Gallery, featuring paintings and separate sections for collectables like Osler crystal chandeliers, has opened its doors in Palm Strip Shopping Mall. The gallery is the first place in the Middle East where a connoisseur is able to acquire masters and lithographic prints of 50 artists from 15 different countries displayed onsite with art pieces exclusively from the U.A.E.

Al Quoz 3, Tel: 04 341 1367 www.thethirdline.com

Palm Strip Mall Opposite Jumeirah Mosque Tel: 04 345 0900 www.proartuae.com

THE RED GALLERY The inspiration behind The Red Gallery is the passion for Vietnamese art of its owner Huong

XVA GALLERY Now located in the DIFC,, this is one of Dubai’s most interesting galleries. While the

gallery focuses on fine art and hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, XVA can also lay claim to the title of Dubai’s hippest hotel, in Bastakiya, with eight guest rooms on the upper floors. Bastakiya Bur Dubai Tel: 04 353 5383 Dubai International Financial Centre Gate Village Tel: 04 358 5117 www.xvagallery.com 4 WALLS ART GALLERY A 3000 sq ft facility at Al Quoz, holds workshops for drawing, painting, photography and sculpting, as well as art classes for children and students, supervised by art teaching artists professionals and a variety of courses taught. This gallery focuses on middle eastern and international art. 4 Walls Art Gallery hopes to share its passion for middle eastern art, with communities and visitors to Dubai and enhancing the regions talented artists. 4 Walls Art Gallery Sheikh Zayed Road 3rd Interchange www.4walls-dubai.com Ayyam Gallery Founded in Damascus in 2006, Ayyam Gallery is one of the middle east’s premiere art spaces, representing some of the region’s most prominent contemporary artists. With a selection of cutting-edge paintings, sculpture and photography, the gallery has sought to promote the Arab world’s dynamic cultural scene at home and abroad. Over the years, its continued commitment to the expansion and progression of middle eastern art has led to a number of landmark initiatives including The Shabab Ayyam Project, an incubator programme for young talented artists in the region, Ayyam Publishing, a Middle Eastern art imprint and Ayyam Auctions, which hosts biannual public sales on a regular basis. Call for more information and details of their exhibitions,timetables and viewings. Alserkal Avenue Street 8 Al Quoz 1 Tel: 04 323 6242 www.dubai@ayyamgallery.com Ayyam Gallery Gate Village Building 3 Dubai International Financial Center Tel: 04 439 2395 www.difc@ayyamgallery.com Destination Dubai 121

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sharmila Dance GROUP Sharmila Dance provides an imaginative, stimulating and creative environment to inspire performers of all ages and all levels of talent. A company run by Sharmila Kamte who has immense experience in the industry and wants dance to be enjoyed and made accessible to everyone! The popularity of Sharmilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classes continues to grow and now has over 600 students attending classes each week and offers annual workshops with international choreographers to further encourage and inspire the students in the various forms of dance and performing arts. In addition to this, Sharmila Dance is home to a group of exclusive dancers along with freelance performers from the U.A.E. and abroad offering the resources to provide their clients with various entertainers, singers, bands and models to fulfill show/exhibition requirements. The Sharmila Dance Group is located at The Community Theatre & Arts Centre at Mall of Emirates. Tel: 04 341 477 (Ext 209) www.sharmiladance.com photograph courtesy of sharmila dance group 122 Destination Dubai

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Activities,Beaches and Sights From ice skating to taking in a musical at the Madinat Jumeirah or keeping kids amused in mammoth theme parks; the city is not lacking in things to do. Head out to Global Village for amusement park rides. For the best view head over to Ski Dive Dubai and launch yourself from a plane, 13,000 feet up. Too high? Try indoor ski diving in Mirdif. Want to go skiing or snowboarding? Try Mall of the Emirates, and if you’re a petrol head, check out the city’s Autodrome.

SKYDIVING Anyone seeking an adrenaline rush then this experience will fit the bill. This one of the most unique drop zones in this part of the world - over the Palm Jumeriah, Dubai. Even those without training can experience the sky dive. Supervised jumps are the safest and most carefree way for beginners to have a go. Share a parachute with an experienced professional. Tel: 04 432 9393 www.dreamdays.ae

ACTIVITIES

was the brainchild of local theatre-lovers, arts enthusiasts, artists and business people.

DUBAI MEDIA CITY AMPHITHEATRE A venue that stages a range of events throughout the year. The amphitheatre itself is located within the confines of the Media City and is situated next to a very scenic lake that adds to the charm of the venue. The amphitheatre is fairly central, and is popular for concerts, comedy shows and live entertainment held in the city.

Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 341 4 777 www.ductac.org

Dubai Media City Tel: 04 364 2032 Madinat Jumeirah TheatRe The theatre’s well planned design and 424seat luxury venue within the busy streets of the ‘ancient’ Souk has witnessed an impressive list of performances. From ‘treading the boards’ classics to musicals and innovative comedy shows, make sure you keep your eyes open for what’s coming to town next and chances are you won’t be disappointed. Designed by stage professionals. Souk Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6380 www.jumeirah.com DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE DUCTAC DUCTAC aims to contribute to the creative and cultural development of Dubai by presenting a programme of events and participatory activities for Dubai’s many multi-national communities and visitors alike. The Theatre & Arts Centre is the first modern, non-profit, cross-community creative centre in the Gulf. This flagship project 124 Destination Dubai

SKI DUBAI Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East and offers an amazing setting to enjoy skiing, snowboarding or just playing in the snow. There is something for everyone, from the beginner to the snow sport enthusiast. Ski Dubai is a unique mountain-themed attraction that offers you the opportunity to enjoy real snow in Dubai all year. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 www.skidxb.com DESERT SAFARI A Desert Safari in Dubai presents a real taste of true spirit of Arabia.It’s less than a 45-minute drive from central Dubai where you can experience a trip of fun. The thrill of a roller coaster ride on the sand dunes, being entertained with music, belly dancers and a taste of Arabic culture and food is a must. Tel: 04 3572 200 www.desertsafaridubai.com AUTODROME Dubai Autodrome is designed to accommodate all types of motor sports events from world class to local. This multi-purpose complex also serves as an ideal setting for concerts and cor-

porate events, whether conferences, seminars, or motoring exhibitions. Built to world-class standards, the Dubai Autodrome offers manufacturers and racing teams a perfect location for testing, prototype development, vehicle demonstrations, and product driver training. Dubai Autodrome Tel: 04 367 8700 www.dubaiautodrome.com CAMEL RACING The former president of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed, endorsed camel racing and provides financial support for citizens who are caretakers of camels. Camel races take place on an annual basis, mostly during the late October to early April racing season and periodically throughout the calendar year.The races generally take place on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays throughout the winter season. Nad Al Sheba Racecourse Tel: 04 322 277 HELICOPTER TOUR Helicopter is a unique way to see Dubai from above. Marvel at its beautiful desert landscape and weaving amongst the skyscrapers the architectural landscape leaves you spellbound. Helicopter flights of up to 30 minutes will give you a tour of the beautiful Jumeirah Palm and the Burj Al Arab hotel.

with races like the world famous Dubai Golden Shaheen Cup. Emirates Racing Authority is the internationally recognised governing body for horse racing in the United Arab Emirates. It administers all aspects of the sport, including the implementation of the registration of horses for racing, the licensing of all, jockeys, officials and stable personnel. Meydan Racecourse Tel: 04 327 0077 www.dubairacingclub.com WILD WADI WATERPARK Designed with influences that reflect Arabian folklore the rides and attractions interconnect. Once you enter Wild Wadi, you will be given access to all the water rides, as well as the use of rubber rings, life jackets and body boards. The water park has 90 lifeguards on duty, keeping you safe while you are having lots of fun. Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 348 4444 www.jumeirah.com

807 Golden Business Centre Airport Road, Deira Tel: 04 294 6060 www.arabiahorizons.com

DUBAI ICE RINK The Olympic-size ice rink boasts world-class facilities. Whether you want to learn skating, perfect your technique, play ice hockey with friends or just have a great time, this spectacular venue is the coolest place to go, any time of the year. On the ground floor of the ice rink, guests can now purchase a vast array of ice skating merchandise.

HORSERACING Racing in Dubai has enjoyed great success

The Dubai Mall Tel: 04 448 5111 www.dubaiicerink.com

Falconry Falconry is a sport known to Arabian World for centuries. Although the sport has roots in many other countries including Magnolia China Pakistan & Russia, it has been adopted with ease and admiration in the Arab world. In Dubai you have the unique opportunity to learn about the falconry as well as participating in this sport. For further information: Travel & Culture Services offers special Falcon Safaris on a daily basis. Travel & Culture Services Tel: 055 715 9025

iFLY Flying the world’s first double vertical wind tunnel. The design raises you three metres in the air. It also incorporates air conditioning keeping flyers cool while they are soaring to new heights. The wind tunnel is 10 metres tall with an acrylic glass wall! The state of the art patented technology ensures a high degree of safety and accommodates all flyers. iFly Playnation, Mirdif City Center Tel: 04 231 6292 www.iflyme.com SAILING AND WIND SURFING Sailing is one of the most popular pastimes in Dubai because of its relatively calm waters. Fixed keel, dingy and board sailing, sail boarding, windsurfing and surface water sport are all available. Conditions are near perfect with minimal tides or currents in the Gulf. Winds are usually predictable and reassuring for the beginner but strong enough to challenge the experienced sailor. Jebel Ali Hotel and Golf Resort Tel: 04 883 6000 SCUBA DIVING With the constant sea temperature set at a minimum of 75 degrees and sometimes raising to 93 degrees this is an ideal place to learn your first dive or for the more experienced diver to relax and enjoy the surroundings.There is a cruise liner, which sunk in the 1960s just outside Dubai. This has become extremely popular with divers. Al Boom Diving Al Wasl Road Tel: 04 342 2993 www.alboomdiving.com WATERSKIING The calm warm waters of the Gulf and yearround sunshine make Dubai an ideal location for waterskiing. Facilities and locations are perfect for both beginners and advanced skiers.

Dubai’s reputation as a waterskier’s paradise is well established. Each year the Dubai Water Sports Association invites top performers from Europe and the United States for a week-long competition and festival. Dubai Water Sports Association Tel: 04 324 1031 EDVENTURE Edventure Travel is a group of artisans and travellers. Who run travelling workshops in photography and art around the UAE and overseas. The goal is to showcase beautiful destinations and learn an art form in the process. They have travelled to Jebel Hafeet, the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque, Hatta, Bali, and Vienna. Tel: 050 715 9457 www.edventuretravel.com Dubai Offshore Sailing Club Sailing is popular in Dubai and the UAE, and not just with the types of yachts people can only dream about. Traditional sailing yachts can be chartered like anywhere else in the world. With relatively calm waters, the beautiful coloured seas and glorious conditions during the winter months make sailing in Dubai one of the most pleasurable past times. Tel: 04 394 1596 www.sailing@dosc.ae BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES Leave the glitz and the glamour of the city behind and join this balloon expedition deep into the desert! Enjoy a magic carpet ride over giant red sand dunes, emerald green oases, gazelles and wandering camels. Be welcomed by the warmth of the desert people you may have a chance to meet on landing. Flying daily at sunrise. Dubai Festival City Tel: 04 285 4949 Amigos Balloons Amigos can offer a personally tailored experience, a romantic balloon flight over Dubai for two, a family occasion or a corporate event. The experience is breathtaking. See the sun above the beautiful sand dunes and rugged, red mountains. The journey starts at 5am from Festival City and will take you halfway between Dubai and Al Ain. The ride lasts about an hour. Festival City Rabat Street Tel; 04 289 9295 www.amigos-balloons.com

SHOOTING The impressive fortress style architecture as you first enter makes the Jebel Ali International Shooting Club an imposing sight from the very start. This indoor and outdoor shooting academy, built to exacting international safety standards, makes the exciting sport of recreational and competitive shooting easily accessible for beginners, corporate groups and experienced shooters. Olympic trap, clay shooting, automatic ball trap and down the line are amongst the disciplines that are available Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Tel: 04 883 6555 www.jebelali-international.com Hunting Game, Target and Shooting Simulator This is for hunting and shooting enthusiasts. Shoot your way to the top of your game at Meydan’s target and shooting simulator which comes with complete diagnostic tools for all skill levels for beginners and professional. This highly realistic game creates vivid digital environments for a shooting experience that is as real as it gets and an experience that will leave you wanting more. The Meydan Hotel, Nad Al Sheeba Meydan Road, Tel: 04 381 3733 www.meydanhotels.com Aikido Originating in Japan. Aikido is unique in its techniques as they are designed to protect either side from injury so it’s a very safe and neutral way to explore martial arts. Whether you’re a beginner or a black belt, Aikido is a great and empowering way to try something new. Lessons will be conducted at the ground floor of the hotel. Group bookings are also available. The Meydan Hotel, Nad Al Sheeba Meydan Road, Tel: 04 381 3405 www.meydanhotels.com Dirt Biking Rent a bike and go it alone or sign up for a tour with an experienced guide, ranging from half a day to a four-day adventure in remote areas across the UAE and Oman. Just getting started? Beginner off-road lessons are available for everyone for up to two hours per session. Group bookings are also available upon request. Emirates Bike Tours, various locations Tel: 050 466 9615 Karting The Dubai Autodrome’s rental karts can reach Destination Dubai 125

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speeds of about 55kph – not fast by road car standards, but when you’re a mere 15cm from the tarmac it will take your breath away. A 15-minute session will get you about 12 laps of this outdoor circuit, which features 17 corners, plus chicanes and even a tunnel/bridge setup to test your mettle and nerve. Dubai Autodrome, Motor City Tel: 04 367 8744 www.dubaiautodrome.com

DEEP BLUE SEA Deep Blue Sea diving centre is one of the leading dive centers in UAE established in 2004 with a sister organisation in Egypt. Offering a range of courses from beginners to instructors & first aid courses. The diving centre also has available a full range of facilities including dive shop, training pool, classrooms, equipment rentals and a booking office. Deep blue Sea offers weekly diving trips to various locations within UAE and Oman. Deep Blue Sea also offers courses in all aspects of diving and authorised to issue diving certificates by various global diving organizations such as Padi, Idea & Cmas and we are the exclusive agent for OCEANIC diving equipments in Dubai. Digital underwater photography for snorkelers,open water dives, night diving, underwater navigation and wreck speciality are amongst the many courses we have on offer. International City Russia Section Building W07 Tel: 04 430 8246 www.diveindubai.com

Dune Buggying The adrenaline of storming through the sand dunes on a high-powered buggy is unrivalled. Day-long excursions from Dubai are available, meaning within an hour of leaving the city you can be strapped in and on your way. Arabia Horizons Tel: 04 294 6060 www.arabiahorizons.com Quad Biking This one has a reputation for attracting crazier personalities. Most operators offer the choice of a sunset excursion, when the landscape takes on an almost magical setting. Frequented by the younger setthese excursions are open to all ages, backgrounds and people at all levels of the desert ride experiences. Desert Rangers Tel: 04 357 2200 www.desertrangers.net Indoor skydiving If you wish to experience an alternative to the real skydive, iFly is offering you the next best thing – floating in a wind tunnel suspended by a 200kph blast of air. Daredevils will enjoy the instructor’s final trick of the lesson: carrying you right to the top of the 10m-high tunnel, and then dive-bombing you back down. The rush is like no other experience. Mirdif City Centre Tel: 04 231 6292 www.iflyme.com High-Altitude Training Favoured by endurance athletes, high-altitude – or ‘hypoxic’ – training offers a tough, breathless workout, even if you’re only walking. It’s designed to help individuals shed body fat, increase muscle mass, improve fitness levels, lower blood pressure and improve stamina. The Quay Healthclub Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 406 8534

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Paintballing There’s nothing like a little mock combat, especially if you’ve got scores to settle with your colleagues, friends and social enemies. However, there are rules to the game – while you might fancy yourself as gun hoe shooting movie star, remember those paintballs hurt at close range but of course can be plenty of fun. Group bookings can be made on request. Pursuit Games Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 4755 www.paintballdubai.com Mountain Biking Based in Dubai, experienced bikers with the right equipment are advised to find out where Hot-Cog’s members are heading for the weekend. Led by group leader Andy Whitaker, you will take on rough-and-ready terrain around the emirate most Fridays. They will also run day trips in Dibba. Group bookings are welcome. Absolute Adventure Tel: 04 345 9900 www.adventure.ae Snowboarding Snowboarding has attracted a huge following with the younger generation but is enjoyed by all ages.Ski Dubai has ideal snowboarding conditions with a 400 meter long run, regular freestyle events, to test your skills, the Freestyle Zone has jumps and rails specifically designed to challenge you. Our professional instructors are available to teach you the basics or help you polish your skills. Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates Sheik Zayed Road Tel: 800 386 www.theplaymania.com Climbing Anyone interested in taking full advantage of Dorell’s The Wall needs to take eight hour-long lessons to be able to climb casually. Having taken the course, climbers can also go on Dorell’s climbing excursions, which take place intermittently, with locations determined according to demand. Group bookings are also available on request. The Wall, opposite Ibis Hotel Dubai World Trade Centre Tel: 04 306 5061 Hiking Want to climb a wadi on foot and get buns of steel? Hiking is a great way to explore the rugged landscape in locations such as the Hajar

The Track With no membership fees and a new nine-hole pay-and-play golf course this is the ultimate golfing day out. Located next to the Meydan Racecourse on the site of the old Nad Al Sheba golf course. The course is teeming with birdlife, with water in play on every hole – often begging you to hit over it – and features ten bunkers guarding the greens and a course of 2,690 yards.

Mountains (and it’s possibly the only legit excuse you’ll have to wear boots in the UAE). Absolute Adventure Tel: 04 345 9900 www.adventure.ae GOLDEN HORSE STABLES A selection of two, five or ten 45-minute sessions of horse riding lessons given by experienced riders. Learn to appreciate the art of horse riding while honing the skills that you need to become a horse rider. Experience horse riding and take the first step, or gallop. The lessons are flexible and can be taken over days or weeks Mushrif Park, Al Waqa Al Khawaneej, Mirdif Tel: 050 873 3352 www.goldenstables.ae ULTIMATE CHARTER YACHTS Experience in planning charter vacations and inspecting yachts on the pristine blue seas. Ultimate Charter the best charter boats in the Gulf at the most competitive prices and the finest service. Free independent and professional advice with personalised friendly service crewed luxury motor yachts. Boats super yachts. and mega yachts for an ultimate luxury cruise are also available. 601 Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 346 4194 www.dubaiultimatecharter.com ULTIMATE CHARTER – DHOW CRUISE Get a different perspective of this amazing city. After departing from Dubai Marina Yacht Club, you will then cruise the Dubai Marina channel with the Dubai Marina on one side and Jumeirah Beach Residences on the other side. You will then enter the Palm Island with amazing views of The Burj Al Arab Hotel on the other side. 601 Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 346 4194 www.dubaiultimatecharter.com

The Meydan Hotel Nad Al Sheeba Meydan Road Tel: 04 381 3733 www.meydanhotels.com

BIG BUS TOURS Your open-top tour reveals Dubai’s landmarks and charts the city’s rapid development from a small fishing village to a modern, vibrant city. Take the Day Tour and use the hop-on, hop-off facility to visit all the places that interest you, or join the Night Tour with a live-guided commentary which showcases illuminated Dubai.On the Day Tour, you can choose a 24 or 48 hour ticket and enjoy free inclusions such as the Dhow River Cruise and Dubai Museum. Both Day Tour routes provide a personal recorded commentary available in eight languages.The Big Bus Sightseeing Tour is a safe and relaxing way to discover this great city; the perfect introduction to Dubai and a fun day out for all. Tel: 04 340 7709 www.bigbustours.com

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB Taking pride in its 36 holes of world-class golf, the club sports two of the city’s finest must-play courses, the Majlis and the Faldo Course, which is also the only 18 hole course in the region to offer night golf. The club house,is one of the most eye-catching spectacle’s in the region. Emirates Golf Club draws accomplished and casual golfers. This course is one of the most popular course for local golfers and visitors to Dubai. Emirates Hills Tel: 04 380 2222 www.emiratesgolf.com AL-BADIA GOLF CLUB Close to the airport, this stunning range was designed by Robert Trent Jones and is a pleasure to play – impeccably manicured and well laid out, with 11 lakes and several streams feeding into Dubai Creek. The changing rooms are like a luxury mini-spa, complete with sauna and Jacuzzi. Driving range access is Dh75 and includes unlimited balls. Intercontinental Hotel Dubai Festival City Tel: 04 601 0111 www.albadiagolfclub.ae

ULTIMATE CHARTER – HELICOPTER This spectacular tour features the Dubai Creek, Burj Al Arab Hotel, The World Islands, Jumeirah Palm, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Burj Khalifa, Atlantis Hotel. Setting off from Dubai Atlantis Hotel, you cover the Old and New Dubai.Choose 15, 25 or 45 minute sightseeing flights on a sharing basis for 1 to 6 persons.

MONTGOMERIE GOLF COURSE Fans of Scottish links will enjoy this course. It has 14 lakes and 81 bunkers designed by Colin Montgomerie. The par-three 13th hole is on an island shaped like the UAE and is purportedly the largest single green in the world: 58,000 sq ft, or the size of nine normal greens combined. A truly world class course arguably the best and another course that has a international reputation amongst golfers worldwide.

601 Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 346 4194 www.dubaiultimatecharter.com

Emirates Hills Tel: 04 390 5600 www.themontgomerie.com

SIGHTS CABLE CAR To see just how quickly Dubai is expanding, take the cable car that runs the 2.3km length of Creekside Park (between the Creek’s two bridges) in under half an hour. Suspended 30 metres in the air, you can see for miles in each direction. Less than 15 years ago, the Dubai World Trade Centre on the Bur Dubai side) marked the outskirts of the city. Creekside, Garhoud Bridge Deira Tel: 04 336 7633 THE FISH MARKET The market has undergone a revamp in the bid to accentuate the fishing heritage of the region and also to educate tourists. A seafood restaurant and a museum explaining the history of this past fishing village are there for the visitor to learn about this very important area. The al Hamriya fruit and vegetable market opposite offers tropical fruit; the variety is plentiful. Opposite The Gold Souk Deira THE GOLD SOUK This is what many people around the world primarily recognise Dubai for as the city of gold. As people race straight from the plane to the gold souk, they are not disappointed. Streets and streets full of glitter and at prices you can barter for. The choice, the quantity, the range, the creativity in the designs are well impressive, as are the prices. Opposite the Fish Market Deira SPICE SOUK A wonderfully different experience,the spice souk has narrow streets and an aroma so unique, it’s like walking into another era.The place seems to have downsized in the past year and the rows of stalls displaying spice - laden sacks are fast diminishing. Although spices are available, a far eastern influence seems to be setting in, with integrated shops. Deira BASTAKIYA Bastakiya is a bustling market and cultural centre of Dubai. The original, old city of Dubai is just one per cent of the modern city we see today. The district is filled with traditional courtyard houses and classic wind towers, which offer a charming glimpse of how Dubai once looked.The surrounding historic buildings are

home to museums and artists. Old Town, Bur Dubai SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH Souk Madinat Jumeirah has been built to resemble a traditional Arabic marketplace. The souk is a colourful and vibrant market or part of a market in an Arabian city. Lively trading culture, animated and interactive - this defines Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Meandering paths lead visitors through a bazaar-like atmosphere in which open fronted shops and intimate galleries spill onto the paved walkways. Jumeirah, Al Sufouh Road Tel: 04 366 8888 THE WONDER BUS The Wonder Bus is an amphibious bus. It is brand new state of the art and is approved by the US coast guard and Emirates Marine Services Dubai. It was manufactured in New York State. Passenger capacity of Wonder Bus is 44. The bus has comfortable and spacious seats, for passenger comfort and a large TV screen inside the bus. BURJ AL ARAB The 7 star hotel at the Jumeirah Beach Resort stands at 321 metres; this is the world’s tallest hotel, only 60 meters shorter than the Empire State Building. This all-suite hotel stands 27 double-height storey’s high and comprises 202 duplex suites. Your transfer to the hotel may be arranged by one of the world’s largest fleets of Rolls Royce Silver Seraphs. Jumeirah Al Sufouh Road Tel: 04 301 7777 www.jumeirah.com Explorer Tours Explorer Tours is a Dubai based company, specialized in team-building programs, adventure packages for schools and unique outdoor activity tours for exploratory individuals. More adventurous activities such as our canoeing or kayaking, raft building, camping, mountain hikes, abseiling and rock climbing can be arranged as one or several days using our base camp just outside Dubai. Tours and safaris; be it our popular Dune buggy safari, Canoeing, Trekking, Desert safari, Dhow cruising or Liwa safari - our experienced staff will make sure you will have a memorable time. Nad Al Hamer Road Rashidiya Tel: 04 286 1991 www.explorertours.ae Destination Dubai 127

ACTIVITIES, BEACHES & SIGHTS

DUBAI HERITAGE VILLAGE The Hatta Village or Dubai Heritage Village is constructed around an old settlement and is a recreation of a traditional old style mountain village set in an oasis. The Dubai Heritage Village helps you discover the old world charm of barasti or palm leaves and mud houses. There’s a large central fort and tower, which overlooks the Dubai Heritage Village. Shindagha, Bur Dubai Tel: 04 393 7151

Dolphin Bay Dolphin Bay is one of the world’s most sophisticated dolphin habitats consisting of a lush tropical beach and three vast lagoons. Here you can meet the charismatic dolphin through a choice of several unique programmes, suitable for all ages and swimming abilities. Guests have the opportunity to interact with dolphins on the edge of the lagoon, in waist deep water or even swim or scuba dive alongside them. A marine mammal specialist will guide you throughout the programme sharing their own knowledge and experience with these amazing animals. This is a truly memorable lifetime experience. Once the interaction is complete guests are invited to enjoy a selection of non-alcoholic beverages. All Dolphin Bay reservations also include admission to Aquaventure Waterpark and a private beach. Atlantis, The Palm Tel: 04 426 1030 www.atlantisthepalm.com/dolphinbay

THE JUMEIRAH MOSQUE The Jumeirah Mosque stands as a dominant landmark of Dubai City. Built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, this stone structure is a tribute to modern Islamic architecture. While strolling through the Mosque at sunset, the shadows form elegant formations. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding organises visits to the Jumeirah Mosque for non-Muslims, aimed at promoting cultural understanding. Jumeirah Tel: 04 353 6666 THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, the fountain shoots water jets up to 500 ft (150 metres), equivalent to that of a 50-storey building.25 colour projectors create a visual spectrum of over 1,000 abstract attractions. The beam of light shining upward from the fountain can be seen from over 20 miles away, and is visible from space. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa AT THE TOP OF BURJ KHALIFA Experience a journey through Dubai’s exotic Arabian heritage, the extraordinary story behind Burj Khalifa as the new icon for the Middle East, and view the spectacular panorama from the observatory At the Top, Burj Khalifa. Experience offers 360 degree sweeping views from level 124 of the world’s tallest tower with views of the Arabian desert and beyond from this amazing building. Dubai Mall, Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 888 8124 www.Burj Khalifa.ae DUBAI AQUARIUM AND UNDERWATER ZOO Dubai Aquarium has more than 33,000 living animals, representing more than 85 species including over 400 sharks and rays com-

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bined. Dubai Aquarium’s 270-degree acrylic walkthrough tunnel makes for incredible closeencounter experiences with some of the most fascinating underwater animals on the planet. A special ‘lunar-cyclic’ lighting system changes the ambience of the tank depending on the time of day. Dubai Mall www.thedubaimall.com SOUK AL BAHAR Souk Al Bahar is an Arabesque shopping mall and entertainment destination located in the heart of the prestigious Downtown Dubai. Souk Al Bahar features over 100 shops in an eclectic retail mix that includes 22 restaurants, cafés and lounges framing the souk’s extensive waterfront promenade. The cultural theme flows throughout the mall, with boutique shops a must-see destination for tourists. Downtown Burj Khalifa Emaar Square www.soukalbahar.ae NORTH TOURS The natural seawater that cuts through the centre of the city is the historical part of Dubai. Take an abra (water taxi) and view the old trading port and the dhows from the water and also pass many of the city’s historic as well as modern landmarks. Walk around the wharf and see elements of Dubai’s past heritage. Saleh Bin Lahej, Bur Dubai Tel: 050 276 8111 www.dhowcruisedubai.com Al Fahidi Fort Bur Dubai DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM The Dubai Dolphinarium has been selected by Dubai Municipality to focus on balancing education and family entertainment. Dubai Dolphinarium is an amazing place, where you are guaranteed to meet some of the most beautiful animals that inhabit the world’s oceans. Have lots of fun and exciting interaction with these wonderful creatures. An unforgettable experience with the worlds most loved mammels. Riyadh Street, Creekside Park Bur Dubai Tel: 04 336 9773 www.dubaidolphinarium.ae DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB A former winner of the tournament, Thomas

Bjorn, has redesigned the one-time host course of the Dubai Desert Classic. The Creek side location is gorgeous, as is the landscaping, with meticulously groomed fairways lined by date and coconut palms and water features. The Park Hyatt Dubai is within walking distance of the greens. Beginners can go wild on the par-three.

Arab Hotel and Burj Khalifa. An exclusive full charter flight (for up to 9 people), a door-todoor limousine pick-up and drop-off service and in-transit refreshments.

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Tel: 04 295 6000 www.dcgyc@dubaigolf.com

ALPHA TOURS Alpha Tours offer you the best way to experience the world-famous icons of Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah. They also offer desert trips, helicopter tours, romantic dinners down the Creek and many other extraordinary experiences that Dubai and Arabian culture have to offer.

THE AVIATION CLUB Packed after work and at weekends and with good reason – the Aviation Club has killer body pump and spinning classes, and a big selection of weights and circuit training for a pre-cardio work out or before a lap-swim in the half-Olympic-size pool. This is where the Dubai Tennis Championships are held; the club’s five tennis courts are available only by reservation. Tel: 04 282 4122 www.aviationclub.ae AL-NASR LEISURELAND Open since 1979, Leisureland is definitely long in the tooth, but it’s got a bit of character and lots of facilities under one roof, including a gym, tennis and squash courts, a bowling alley and an ice rink. Sure, it’s not as snazzy as the Dubai Ice Rink, but it’s bigger than the one at the Hyatt Regency Dubai. Tel: 04 337 1234 Oud Metha Bur Dubai www.alnasrll.com DUBAI ICE RINK This state-of-the-art Olympic-size ice rink is ringed with cafes and restaurants and can even be converted into a concert arena. Sign up for a private or group class if you’re still a little wobbly in the knees. Hormone-crazed teens invade for the nighttime ‘Disco Sessions’. This is great fun for adults and kids and at times gets very busy. The Dubai Mall Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 448 5111 www.dubaiicerink.com SEAWINGS Provides visitors with a bird’s eye view of the region’s extraordinary man-made structures. Operating up to 16 flights daily, they provide aerial tours and packages to destinations such as Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al

Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Tel: 04 883 2999 www.seawings.ae

RIVA Beach Club Dubai’s first standalone beach club .With palm trees, sun loungers and luxurious day beds scattered around the pool, paradise-island bar and the private beach, by day it’s a place for kicking back, mixed drink in hand. Come sunset, twinkling candles turn RIVA into one of the Palm’s most romantic locations, perfect for sundowners and intimate dinner dates. With chilled out music in the background the setting is just right for the surroundings.The club is situated in the shade in the late afternoon the beach remains sun-kissed for longer periods throughout the evening. There’s a large pool, plus a kids’ splash-about pool, outdoor bar and an outdoor à la carte restaurant, with indoor space. Choose from more than 200 loungers, or go for a giant day bed, ideal for couples. Palm Jumeirah Tel: 04 430 9466 www.riva-beach.com

Al Owais Building 5th floor, Deira Tel: 04 294 9888 www.alphatoursdubai.com DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM The construction date of this building goes back to the late 50s. It became the headquarters of Dubai Municipality offices until 1964. The museum showcases the history of Dubai with a focus on the stages of its development over the past decades. It contains several rare manuscripts, royal decrees issued by the late rulers, old administrative decrees and orders of the former and present officials. Bani Yas Road opposite Dubai Creek. Tel: 04 345 3636 www.dm.gov.ae Aquaventure Waterpark Enjoy the thrill of the largest waterpark in Dubai overflowing with 42 acres of fun. Experience being catapulted through shark filled lagoons, endless rapid river adventures, Splashers children’s play area with rope bridges, slides, water cannons and more. Or just relax on our private beach surrounded by lush tropical landscapes. Atlantis, The Palm www.atlantisthepalm.com/aquaventure Tel: 04 426 0000 The Lost Chambers Aquarium Imagine exploring the mysterious ruins of Atlantis, lost for thousands of years deep beneath the sea. Now picture yourself being surrounded by 65,000 marine animals. Come live out your own adventure as you explore the underwater mazes of this lost civilization. There are over 20 exhibits including sharks, piranhas,

seahorses, a touch tank and our interactive Aquatheatre show. Atlantis, The Palm www.atlantisthepalm.com/thelostchambers Tel: 04 426 0000

BEACHES Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa The Habtoor’s pool and beach caters to a range of interests, whether it be lounging in the sun. Walk down to the extra-long beach if you want some quiet, or relax. There’s also a kids’ play area and two waterslides, plus a restaurant and swim-up bar plenty of space in the sun, and you can choose between the beach or the pool for added variety. Dubai Marina Tel: 04 408 4444 www.habtoorhotels.com Club Joumana Located at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa and spread over a long stretch of beach quieter than most beach clubs in Dubai. There are three pools, watercooledwatersports are there and private huts on the beach. Everything from a hair-raising zapcat ride to a more relaxing paddleboarding sessions are available. There’s also a beach bar and restaurant. Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Tel: 04 814 5555 www.jebelali-international.com Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa There are three pools, a gym, tennis courts, spa, kids’ play area and table tennis, plus beach and poolside bars and restaurants. A complex where there is no shortage of entertainment and food outlets. Eat at Lebanese restaurant Al Qasr, Italian venue Capanna Nuova or the Thai Bistro, and drink at Cuban-themed Malecon, lounge bar Boudoir and hangout atSho Cho. Jumeirah Beach Road Tel: 04 346 1111 www.dxbmarine.com Nasimi Beach You can choose from a range of laid-back seating, plush day beds and private cabanas. The chilled vibe comes complete with music. As well as the bar and restaurant, there’s also a new shopping boutique and a volleyball net. You can head to the Nasimi Beach Boutique – the collection of designer fashion, jewellery and accessories is worth a look.

Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Tel: 04 426 2626 www.atlantisthepalm.com One & Only Royal Mirage A 1km long pristine and beautiful beach situated in front of this stunning hotel.You can enjoy the pool facilities as well as complimentary water and towels. There are a number of water sports on offer, from water-skiing to speedboat rides. Sun loungers are readily available. It’s near the beach bar & grill and Jetty Lounge – two beautiful beachside hangouts. Al Sufouh Road Tel: 04 399 9999 www.royalmirage.oneandonlyresorts.com Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Club This club offers a well-located area of beach, which is set back from the water’s edge. The Sheraton has a volleyball court on the beach. Sunbeds are available and a poolsde restaurant. The Sheraton occupies a prime spot on The Walk at JBR if you want to leave your lounger and pop out for a stroll to the shops. Sheraton Dubai Jumeirah Beach The Walk at JBR Tel: 04 399 5533 www.sheratonjumeirahbeach.com The Pavilion Marina & Sports Club One of Dubai’s most well-equipped clubs, sprawling across 900 metres of private beach with an international crowd. Looking out to sea with the Burj Al Arab in front of you.Your towels are laid out for you, and you can choose from four different pools, or try watersports including banana boating, windsurfing and play tennis with seven courts to choose from. Jumeirah Beach Hotel Tel: 04 348 0000 www.jumeirah.com The Quay Club With views of the Burj Al Arab, this is one of Dubai’s popular beachside spots.You get access to the two hotel pools.Towels are free, beach toys, buckets, spades and a beach butler bringing fresh fruit. There’s a great beach bar menu, and the entry price includes food and drink vouchers to spend during the day. Sunbeds and comfortable cabanas are also available. The Quay, Mina A’Salam Madinat Jumeirah Tel: 04 366 6821 www.jumeirah.com Destination Dubai 129

Tel: 04 434 0440 www.istyle.ae AXIOM Axiom Telecom is the largest mobile retailer and distributor in the Middle East with over 400 outlets. Outlets are located in the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Egypt and more recently the UK.Axiom Telecom has partnerships with leading manufacturers: Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, LG, and i-mate. Axiom Telecom is also a partner of du in the UAE, and Mobily in KSA.

BOOKS, ELECTRONICS & MUSIC If it’s home entertainment you’re after, best to head to Dubai Mall you’ll find not only a huge Virgin Megastore which also sells Apple products but also an enormous Japanese bookstore where you can happily lose an afternoon.

BOOKS MAGRUDY’S Magrudy’s is a central part of Dubai life. At first selling mainly educational toys and school supplies, children’s books formed part of their very first offering. New categories were added: mother and baby, cookery, fiction amongst others. Jumeirah is the “spiritual home” of Magrudy’s – still visited by the same customers, who shopped there as children in the seventies and eighties. Al Ittihad Rd Dubai Festival City Tel: 04 232 8761 www.magrudy.com BORDERS You’ll find shopping for books in Borders a real pleasure. It is no surprise then that Borders has become a popular place across the globe. Fiction, lifestyle, drama, autobiographies, cookery, the range is highly impressive, and there’s a good selection of study books. The children’s section is of particular note with its variety of books and little chairs and tables. Mall of the Emirates Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 341 5758 www.bordersbookstore.net KINOKUNIYA Kinokuniya is Singapore’s flagship store. At a massive 43,000 sq. ft. providing a collection of over 500,000 titles from all over the world, including English, Japanese, French and German publications. The store stocks books 130 Destination Dubai

at reasonable prices, and prides itself on being a distinct cross-cultural hub with a range of multi-cultural events, such as Ikebana; comic art demonstrations and book launches. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 0111 www.kinokuniya.com.sg

ELECTRONICS JUMBO ELECTRONICS Jumbo Electronics Company Ltd. (LLC) was founded in 1974. Jumbo is one of the leading names in the field of consumer electronics, information technology, telecommunications, home appliances, office automation, entertainment and gadgets in the United Arab Emirates and is amongst the first transnational corporations with a well spread network of 30 retail stores and nine service centres across the Emirates. Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Mall of the Emirates Shekih Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Tel: 04 339 8296 www.jumbocorp.com JACKY’S ELECTRONICS Jacky’s Electronics is a leading name and brand that is well established within this market. Very consumer based, the stores across

the UAE offer all the latest electronic goods including computers, electronics, laptops, flat screen TV’s, information technology, telecommunications, home appliances, office automation and entertainment and prides itself on their inter personal service. The busy stores stock all worldwide known brands. Mall of the Emirates Shekih Zayed Road Al Barsha 1 Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 434 0222 www.jackys.com SHARAF DG Stores designed to international standards with customer friendly environments. Sharaf DG is not just an electronics store; it’s a lifestyle experience where consumers can select from the widest range of brands available in the UAE. Electrical appliances,flat screen TV’s, laptops, smart phones, audio, computers and their accessories. In short everything in electronics can be found at Sharaf DG.

Mall with four exquisite showrooms. Outlets of Grand Stores showcase the world’s topend photographic brands. Home to the likes of Nikon, Fujifilm, SanDisk, Epson and their accessories. Alongside these outlets stand the Samsonite showroom with excellent luggage items, bags and travel accessories for people on the move. Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8614 TARASAM TRADING EST Tarsam Image stores offer it’s customers great value deals with a range of high quality and innovative products at reasonable competitive prices, the company aims to become one of the best for the distribution of electronics, decoration, lighting, scooters, health care products, mobile accessories and toys. Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 339 8161 www.tarsam.com

DUBAI AUDIO CENTRE Dubai Audio, carefully choose its products and brands, because the products speak themselves. It is imperative that theyare of the highest standards. The company is passionate about all of the brands it carries and looks forward to sharing this excitement with their customers by helping you create the perfect system for your home. Their products and solutions also help solve basic problems in home entertainment - create the best sound, reduce clutter, simplify setup and deliver it in a design that’s easy to place in a modern home. There are no boundaries to the products that are on offer as long as they fulfill design, performance and simple operation criteria. The only limiting factor when of our product range is your own imagination! Only music reproduced to the highest standards can bring you lasting pleasure. They stock Linn, Naim, Sonus Faber, Cyrus, Mark Levinson, Martin Logan and Revel. Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 343 1441 www.dubaiaudio.com

Tel: 04 324 1394 www.xiomtelecom.com VERTU Vertu born from an obsession to create a handset that deployed craftsmanship and technology in a way that had never been achieved before bringing together all the outstanding and rare qualities of luxury with today’s mobile communications technology. Vertu looked beyond the world of mobile phones. Its inspiration came from the finest watches, exquisite jewellery and the most exhilarating cars. Tel: 04 324 1419 www.rivoligroup.ae MICRO DIGITAL ELECTRONICS The size of this outlets is small in comparison to the other stores in the mall, however this can be excused when you see the quality of brands that are occupy it. You will find a selection of computers, photographic equipment and cameras, whether you’re looking for the latest and digital cameras, MP3 players, computer hardware & software. Mall of the Emirates Tel: 04 295 3440 www. micro.city@emirates.net.ae

MUSIC

Ibn Batuta Mall Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 339 865 www.sharafdg.com

iSTYLE iSTYLE staff can tell you all about incorporating Apple hardware and software solutions into your lifestyle. Apple premium sales people live and breathe the Apple products. They offer expert advice if you are a business or professional user wanting to do more with your Apple products.

VIRGIN MEGASTORE Virgin stands for value for money, quality, innovation and a sense of competitive challenge. The store delivers a quality service by empowering its employees and facilitating and monitoring customer feedback to continually improve the customer’s experience through innovation. Each successive venture demonstrates the company’s devotion to picking the right market and the right opportunity.

GRAND STORES DIGITAL This store has a stately presence at the Dubai

The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa

Mall of the Emirates Shekih Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1 Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed

Downtown Burj Khalifa Deira City Centre Baniyas Road, Port Saeed Tel: 04 325 3330 www.virgin.com Jamal Records Producer and distributor of Islamic music albums aiming to attend to the spiritual needs of people in an entertaining and educational way, looking to transcend the boundaries of faiths and cultures in sharing a message of peace and hope worldwide. Yusuf Islam’s Mountain of Light Productions, Jamal Records now based in the UAE, operating officially as an Independent Record Label. info@jamalrecords.com Jellyfish Jellyfish, one of Dubai’s fastest growing production companies. They have got a vast database of talent – models, photographers, stylists, locations, crew; you name it – both here and abroad. They offer turnkey production services for projects of any scale. Jellyfish isn’t limited to Dubai – their services are also available across the UAE as well as in UK, South Africa, and Oman. www.jellyfish.ae AUDISSEY At Audissey, with 21 of the world’s best brands in audio, it is the only showroom of its kind on planet. It’s acoustically refined surroundings, elegant aesthetics and thoroughly knowledgeable sales consultants invite you to immerse yourself in the exhilarating dynamism of multi-dimensional audio. Audissey; Revel. Revive. Relive. Tel: 04 324 5913 Scorpion Productions Putting the needs of the clients first and providing service of the highest international standards. Split into three departments (Modelling/ Promotions, Entertainment and Production) they are handled by highly experienced personnel of various nationalities. Their service includes flying their talent in to provide services across the globe, catering to the needs of their clients, whatever they want and wherever they are. www.scorpiondubai.com POPULAR MUSIC INSTITUTE This institute teaches all kinds of musical instruments. A variety of musical instruments and accessories are also available in store for purchase. A leading institution in the areas of music education, technology and exam prepa-

ration, Music language (rhythm and theory), performance (concerts and showcases) and testing (international board exams) are all important aspects of its approach to a music education. Wafi City Oud Metha Tel: 04 324 2626 THOMSON MUSIC HOUSE The retail locations carry a full range of musical instruments, including keyboards, guitars, drums, hand percussions, woodwind, flutes, brass instruments, sting instruments, PA and amps, professional audio, and digital recording equipment. They also stock a wide selection of accessories and books along with brands like Yamaha, Hohner, Sabian, Ovation, Line 6, Conn-Selmer and Dean Markley, to name just a few. Tel: 04 324 2322 www.thomsunpuremusic.com BANG & OLUFSEN Bang & Olufsen manufactures a highly distinctive and exclusive range of televisions, music systems, loudspeakers, telephones, and multimedia products that combine slim line contoured designs with a ultra contemporary edge. With Inspirational Living, they have teamed up with different stylists from around the world, to create a different way of living and hope to inspire you. Dubai Audio Centre Sheikh Zayed Rd Tel: 04 343 1441 The Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Khalifa Tel: 04 362 7500 www.bang-olufsen.com MELODY HOUSE Melody House is a musical instrument company based in Dubai. Opened in 1993 Melody House has established itself as one of the leading musical instrument stores in the region. With outlets in Deira and Al Quoz the company also has a strong catalogue of distribution rights for the major musical brands such as Pearl, Sabian, PRS, Remo, Hk Audio & DPA microphones for the middle east. Gold and Diamond Park 4th Interchange Sheikh Zayed Road Tel: 04 323 4912 www.melodyhouse.ae Destination Dubai 131

Emirates Airline Rugby Sevens Record-breaking crowds, thrilling rugby action, entertainment second to none and an impressive purpose-built venue all ensure that each year the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is an event to remember. After 38 years at the Al Awir ground, a move to Emirates new, purpose-built venue, The Sevens, on the Al Ain Road in 2008, proved to be a resounding success with the spirit of the previous venue encapsulated in a bigger and better setting for one of the region’s greatest sporting and social events of the year.The Sevens, which boasts six pitches, sees an average of around 120,000 fans streaming through its gates over the three days of the tournament.The event is usually held in December each year. Dubai World Cup As 11 of the world’s leading thoroughbreds stepped onto Dubai’s refurbished Nad Al-Sheba racecourse on 27 March 1996, one of racing’s most ambitious dreams came true. The brainchild of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai World Cup is a fitting tribute to his love of horses and of horseracing. In 2012, the event, which is held annually at the end of March, will have an overall prize of US$27.250 million, with the addition of another race, the Dubai Gold Cup. Dubai Marathon The Dubai Marathon is considered the richest road race in the world, with US$1 million up for grabs. The event which first began in 2000, has been embraced by the city and its citizens. In 2012, over 15,000 runners registered for the three events – 42.195km, 10km and 3km fun run. It is held each year in January. 132 Destination Dubai

BY TAGHRED CHANDAB

The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships The Aviation Club Tennis Centre has been home to The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships since its inauguration in 1993. Now in its 20th year, the tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free are rightly proud of one of the most popular and competitive events on the world circuit. Staged at the Dubai Tennis Stadium in Garhoud, the tournament is held at the end of February with the non-stop action commencing with the $2 million WTA event, followed by the 20th staging of the $2 million ATP tournament. Dubai Desert Classic The Omega Dubai Desert Classic was born in 1989 when the European Tour visited Asia for the first time. It was the 38th event on the European Tour. Spanish golfers have tasted great success in Dubai with Miguel Jimenez (2010), Alvaro Quiros (2011), and Rafael Cabrera-bello (2012) winning the Classic. The event is usually held in February at the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai. Destination Dubai 133

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From Dubai to London Velimir Stjepanovic prepares to make his Olympic swimming debut

BY TAGHRED CHANDAB | PHOTOGRAPH NOEL MILLER

Destination Dubai 135

s Michael Phelps prepares to hang up his swimming cap after the 2012 London Olympic Games, the spotlight will shine on a new generation of swimmers vying for the same glory. Among those is Dubai’s very own super fish, Velimir Stjepanovic. Born and raised in the UAE, this 18-year-old Serbian swimmer is already making a big splash in the pool. In March, during the 2012 Olympic Test Event in London, Velimir clocked the fastest qualifying time in the world in the 200m butterfly; he then went on to win gold. His crucial time of 1:56:18 was enough to secure his place on the Serbian Olympic Team. As a result, he will now compete in the Men’s 200m Butterfly, at the Aquatic Centre, in London. The heats and semi-final will be held on July 30 while the final is on July 31. “When I touched the wall, I had no idea I had qualified,” he recalls. “I didn’t have my glasses on so I couldn’t see the board.”

He adds: “The pressure is now off qualifying for the Olympics and my focus is on training for the games.” Velimir says he simply wants to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy his first ever Olympic Games; however, those close to him believe he will cement his place in swimming history at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

“When I touched the wall, I had no idea I had qualified,” he recalls. “I didn’t have my glasses on so I couldn’t see the board.”

The determined teenager first set his sights on becoming a professional swimmer at the age of 13 under the watchful eye of his Hamilton Aquatics coach, Chris Tidey. Velimir’s commitment, determination and drive saw him reach the top at a junior level; in 2011, while in his final year at Jumeriah College, Velimir was crowned the European Junior Swimming Champion in Belgrade, Serbia. His incredible comeback in the 100m butterfly, where he snatched the gold medal, continues to be a talking point in his native country. He also took home the gold in the 100m freestyle. In August that year, Velimir officially began training for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Did you know? After Velimir qualified for the 2012 London Olympic Games, a leading Serbian newspaper asked its readers, in an online poll, this question: Do you think Velimir can win Gold at the Olympic Games? Over 50 percent of Serbians said ‘YES’. The 2012 London Olympic Games will be held from July 27 – August 12. Follow Velimir’s story on his official Facebook fan page. www.facebook.com/Velimir Stjepanovic: Road to the 2012 London Games PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE SERBIAN SWIMMING FOUNDATION

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TEE

OFF

IN DUBAI BY BEN JACOBS | PHOTOGRAPH BY JACKISO

Golf has proven to be one of the most popular sports in Dubai. The average hacker is truly spoilt for choice, with a number of top championship courses right on their doorstep.

he most notable is the Majlis at Emirates Golf Club, a par-72, 7,301-yard track that has hosted 23 Dubai Desert Classics. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy can both call themselves recent winners of the coveted silver jug - one of the most distinctive trophies in golf. The inaugural Desert Classic, in 1989, paved the way for golf to grow in the region. Since then, other top courses have emerged, including the Greg Norman-designed Earth at the fantastic Sumerian Golf Estates. Dubai is privileged to own two major European Tour events, and it is testament to the area that both would be just as successful on a number of other courses. The Ells Club, for instance, is a hidden gem that deserves a professional tournament one day. Hidden away in Dubai Sports City, the par-72, 7,538 - yard course is a frequent haunt for McIlroy, who uses the world class Butch Harmon facility to practise every January.

Overall, business on Dubai’s fairways is booming. Golfers here are so lucky to have so many first rate places to tee off

Arguably the most enjoyable golf course in the region is Dubai Creek –but only if you are playing well. A bad day can result in a number of lost balls because, as the name suggests, there is water everywhere! Al Badin Golf Club, with its distinctive spiral-shaped clubhouse, is another brilliant place to go and have a swing. The manicured greens are some of the best in Dubai, while a round is excellent value for money. Another cheap and mesmeric course is the Peter Harradine-designed Jebel Ali Golf Club. It may only be a nine-hole facility, but what it lacks in quantity it certainly makes up for in quality. Its short par-four fifth is probably the best hole in the UAE. The fantastic thing about all of Dubai’s courses is they offer so much more than golf. Jebel Ali, for instance, also houses the UAE’s only crazy golf facility, while the Address Montgomerie Dubai boasts a five-star hotel and an award-winning restaurant, Nineteen. Another budget nine-hole track, Meydan Golf Club, will open in 2012, and it will be a very welcome addition. Overall, business on Dubai’s fairways is booming. Golfers here are so lucky to have so many first rate places to tee off, many of which, as an added bonus, also offer unparalleled views of Dubai’s fantastic skyline! 138 Destination Dubai

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Dubai is halfway between the power centres of east and west. For those not passing through on global business, Dubai is a useful gateway for travellers to India, Asia and North Africa. From long weekends in nearby Beirut or travelling around Vietnam, to kicking back on an exotic beach in Thailand or Bali, if you’re looking to move on from Dubai the options are endless

your Destination tips

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BY HELEN VESSY | PHOTOGRAPH BY GARY SCHMID

INDIA, Agra India has so much history. The country is riddled with palaces, temples and monuments. Agra’s magnificent white marble Taj Mahal stands like a bulbous beacon, drawing tourists from all over the world. This is without doubt a masterpiece in architectural history. It’s every bit as good as you’ve heard. While Agra itself is a sprawling, bloated and polluted industrial city that few travellers seem to have a good word for, the Taj Mahal is not a stand-alone attraction.

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your Destination tips

KEnyA, Masai Mara

VIETNAM, Halong Bay Vietnam is finally shaking off its past and capturing the imagination of the new travellers.Halong Bay has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia.The bay consists of dense cluster of 3000 limestone monolithic islands, each topped with at hick jungle vegetation, which rises from the ocean.Beyond the breathtaking vistas on a boat cruise through the bay, visitors also come to explore the caves – some of which are beautifully illuminated for the benefit of tourists.

CZECH REPUBLIC, Prague The Republic has a rich cultural heritage represented by artists, poets, historians and other influential intellectuals. Tourism has largely focused on Prague, with its great museums, galleries, concerts and other attractions.The city’s charms can be totally obscured by tourists visiting the city. The stunning architecture, incorporate, Gothic, Renaissance, neoclassical, and cubist periods cast a daunting shadow in every corner of the city. Beyond the medieval lanes of the Old Town and the Castle District, there’s an entire other cosmopolitan city to explore. 142 Destination Dubai

LEBANON, Beirut Once known as the ‘Paris of the East’, Beirut is located in magnificent surroundings, thrust into the Mediterranean. Behind the city are towering mountains, visible when the traffic haze settles down. The Corniche seafront boasts beaches, restaurants, theatres and a dazzling variety of shops and restaurants. If you’re gazing at the beautifully reconstructed colonial relics and mosques of central Beirut’s Downtown, the city is a triumph over its recent disasters.

INDONESIA, Bali Some call it the ‘island of the gods’, others Shangri-La. The ‘last paradise’, the ‘dawning of the world’ and the ‘centre of the universe’ are yet other names for this truly beautiful tropical island inhabited by a remarkably artistic people who have created a dynamic society with unique arts and ceremonies. Bali is small, just 140 km by 80 km and lies between Java, the most highly populated and influential of all the islands, and Lombok, one of the quieter and moderately slower paced islands. It not only captures what is special about Indonesia but also has a uniqueness of its own.

Known as the cradle of humanity. Today, Kenya, regarded by many as the ‘jewel of East Africa’, has some of the continent’s finest beaches, most magnificent wildlife and scenery and an incredibly sophisticated tourism infrastructure. It is a startlingly beautiful land, from the coral reefs and white sand beaches of the coast to the summit of Mount Kenya, crowned with clouds. Above all, Kenya is a place for safaris. It is a staggering experience.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NOEL MILLER Destination Dubai 143

01 DESTINATION DUBAI

CONTRIBUTORS INDEX

your definitive guestbook

ANAS BUCKARASH anas@ahdaaf.ac

ANDREW COTTERELL andy@andrewcotterill.com

ANDREW MARMINC amarminc@gmail.com

BJORN MOEMAN

bbjornmoerman@gmail.com

AJAY GOEL

ajaygoel_dxb@gmail.com

BEN JACOBS

ben.jacobs@itp.com

DANIEL CHEONG

daniel.cheong@yahoo.com

DONNELL GUMIRAN

gumiran_donnell@yahoo.com

ELMAR BAJORA

elmar.bajora@googlemail.com

FATIMA HADI

efatima@mac.com

GARY SCHMID

info@gary-photography.com

HELEN VESSY

mediagirluae@ymail.com

HELEN ABBAS

Helen@helenabbas.com

IVANA MAGLIONE ivana.dubai@gmail.com

NIHAL AKMAL AL HUSSAINY akmal_nihal@yahoo.com

NOEL MILLER

nmiller42@hotmail.com

SUZANNA HUSSAINI suzancooks@gmail.com

TAGHRED CHANDAB

taghredchandab@yahoo.com.au

KERRY BAGGOTT

kb_cit@hotmail.com.co.uk

DANIELLE SIMPSON

daniellesimpson27@gmail.com

Peter Richweisz www.richweisz.com

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IMPROVE YOUR

PHOTOGRAPHIC SKILLS We’ve listened to the swirling rhythms of Cuba, photographed the lovely Spanish-influenced architecture, and the classic cars in Havana. We’ve also witnessed the lively blend of cultures in India, where we’ve caught the morning scenery at the majestic Taj Mahal and captured the merchants peddling their goods in the bustling streets; both trips were amazing and great photographic experiences.

With Dubai Photo Expeditions

Our workshops are led by Gary and Ivana who are both professional photographers and instructors. These expeditions have been designed for amateurs eager to improve their photographic skills. Join our Facebook page - Dubai Photo Expeditions – and stay up to date with all the latest information and upcoming trips. Anyone interested can also contact us directly: Ivana +971 50 420 4091 www.ivanamaglione.com | Gary +971 50 748 3667 www.gary-photography.com Destination Dubai 145

See you soon...

PHOTOGRAPH BY gary schmid 146 Destination Dubai

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Elegance is an attitude Andre Agassi

TOGETHER, WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE BUILDING HIS FUTURE Since Andre Agassi retired from professional tennis, he hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stopped pursuing excellence. Founding and inspiring the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education and the Andre Agassi College Preparatory Academy. To give underprivileged children a chance to receive an education, learn a trade and build a life. Longines is happy to help. It funded the Longines Scholarship Fund for Agassi Prep Graduates. Allowing gifted and motivated youngsters to

The Longines Saint-Imier Collection 148 Destination Dubai

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learn a trade with a future, at the N.G. Hayek Watchmaking School.