TOURISM GUIDE 2015
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CONTENTS
8 WELCOME TO DUBAI
68 GOLF
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69 The courses
What’s N E W in 2014? Accolades and awards
12 FAMILY FUN
72 EVENTS 74 Dubai Calendar
13 Attractions and entertainment
22 SHOPPING 23 24 28 31
Mall trawl Bargain hunting Souvenirs from the souk Weekend markets
GASTRONOMY 36 New restaurants in 2014 40 Nightlife 42 Gourmet trails
44 CULTURE: THE ARTS 45 Venues and festivals 49 Art Trail
50 CULTURE: HERITAGE Historic and cultural venues Sporting heritage Religious festivities & Ramadan Cultural etiquette
58 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES 59 Activities 61 Parks
62 BEACH LIFE 63 Beach watch 64 Watersports 4
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80 CRUISING
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PO Box 594, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 282 1111 info@dubaitourism.ae dubaitourism.ae Director of Communications Charlie Taylor ctaylor@dubaitourism.ae Director of Media & Advertising Moza Al Youha myouha@dubaitourism.ae Chief Editor Kerry Baggott kbaggott@dubaitourism.ae
82 BUSINESS IN DUBAI
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76 YOUR 5-DAY ITINERARY
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83 Venues and facilities A Motivate Connect Publication
88 #MYDUBAI 89 Photo shop 90 #MyDubai Trip
92 FUTURE PROJECTS 96 PRACTICAL INFORMATION 98 Dubai on a budget
100 GETTING AROUND 102 Metro Tour
104 MAP 106 HOTELS & SPAS
Media One Tower, Dubai Media City PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 427 3000 F: +971 4 428 2261 motivatepublishing.com connect@motivate.ae
General Manager Motivate Connect John Deykin Regional Manager Rami Rahman rami@motivate.ae Senior Account Manager Bireshwar Mitra Senior Assignments Editor Ingrid Valles Po
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Editorial Assistant Aarti Saundalkar
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Editorial Contributors Nusrat Ali Scott Hamilton Designers Rouf Majid Grace Campbell Head of Production Sunil Kumar
112 Directory
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THEADDRESS.COM
BU SINESS TRAV EL OR WEEKEN D G ETAWAY
It’s all in The Address
Welcome to The Address Hotels + Resorts. Located in the most vibrant parts of the city, The Address Hotels + Resorts is defining the global standards of luxury hospitality. From business meetings to social rendezvous. From absolute relaxation to luxurious indulgences. It’s where world-class services have been recreated to suit discerning tastes. It’s where energy surrounds you the minute you walk in. It’s chic. It’s exciting. It’s all in The Address. DOWNTOWN DUBAI | DUBAI MALL | DUBAI MARINA MONTGOMERIE DUBAI | THE PALACE DOWNTOWN DUBAI
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tennis academy
THE MEYDAN HOTEL The Meydan Hotel is a destination hotel that redefines world-class luxury. Home to the world’s richest horse race, this iconic Dubai landmark boasts luxurious accommodation with stunning Grandstand views, tennis facility, Meydan Beach access, golf academies, 7 restaurants and bars and Infinity pool. This ultimate city getaway epitomises great service, style and sheer indulgence. For more information call +971 4 381 3333 or email info@meydanhotels.com. www.meydanhotels.com
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Welcome to Dubai Ahlan wa sahlan fi Dubai – Welcome to Dubai – a city in which incredible lifetime memories are made and remarkable experiences are enjoyed hour after hour. It’s true to say that few cities in the world inspire as much awe as Dubai does. It dares to be different and makes the impossible possible – where else can you swim with sharks in a shopping mall? Who thought you could go snow skiing in the middle of a desert? And what other city boasts the world’s tallest tower – a pinnacle 8
of mankind’s achievement and determination and a demonstration of Dubai’s ‘spirit of possible’? Dubai is a city for whom, no matter what your age or interests, will astound and inspire. Glorious beaches, jaw-dropping architecture, magnificent malls, award-winning hotels and restaurants and the sprawling
desert landscape that lies beyond the skyscrapers are just some of our selling points. But it’s not just these physical attributes that make Dubai remarkable, it’s the phenomenal experiences that can be had here. Shopping is not just about retail therapy, it’s bartering in an historic souk, watching dancing fountains or meeting a colony of Gentoo Penguins. For the sportsman and adventure seeker, Dubai is about sand boarding down a 300ft sand dune, camping in the desert, skydiving above Palm Jumeirah and playing camel polo. And for the night owl, Dubai is about enjoying some of the hottest, trendiest and most creative nightspots imaginable.
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INTRODUCTION
And the experiences just keep on coming as the city gears up to launch even more attractions, open new hotels and offer up a raft of entertaining festivals and events throughout 2015. The fact that the world’s biggest boy band, One Direction, is coming to town in April is an indication of the calibre of events we have lined up this year. Add to this the second edition of our city-wide Food Festival and the 20th anniversary of the Dubai Shopping Festival - we’re all in for a big treat. Keep an eye on dubaicalendar.ae so you don’t miss out on any of the action. And, to add to the already remarkable array of attractions, we’re looking forward to the opening of several new exciting theme parks – Wire World being just one. Alongside these new visitor attractions, new hotels and apartments are
springing up to accommodate the over 11 million visitors that touchdown here each year. By 2020 we want to see that annual visitor figure jump to 20 million. Within the pages of this Tourism Guide you’ll find no end of reasons to visit. We hope you find the
information you’re looking for here. If not log onto our new website dubaitourism.ae Dubai may be on the New York Times’ ‘must-visit’ list for 2014, but there’ll be enough new things to keep you coming back year, after year, after year. W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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A SAMPLE OF WHAT’S NEW IN 2014 Spearo Extreme Sports Expo: the latest in extreme sports on display Dubai Arts Season: one month of artistic events and exhibitions across the city (Pg 45)
HERITAGE Dubai Women’s Museum: celebrating the lives of women in the UAE. Find it near the Gold Souk in Deira.
FAMILY FUN
Dubai International Writers’ Centre: welcoming all budding writers to its historic Shindagha house.
Giant Pacific Octopus and King Croc: new residents at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo (Pg 13)
Clinton Street Baking Company – Burj Views, Downtown
DubaiDino: the 155-million-year-old dinosaur fossil displayed at The Dubai Mall
Coya – Four Seasons Resort Dubai
Snow Bullet: at Ski Dubai (Pg 17)
Inflight Dubai: the tallest and largest wind tunnel in the world by Skydive Dubai
Cielo Tapas Bar and Sky Lounge Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Garhoud Cle Dubai by Greg Malouf – Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC
Bounce and Jump Boxx: the trampoline parks are the talk of the town (Pg 17)
Zoo Skatepark: the UAE’s first indoor skatepark
GASTRONOMY AND NIGHTLIFE
PUBLIC TRANSPORT Dubai Tram: Runs 20 hours a day from 5am - 1am (Pg 101)
At the Top Sky: the highest outdoor observation deck in the world on the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa (Pg 11)
Cut by Wolfgang Puck – The Address, Downtown Don Alfonso 1890 – Shangri-La Dubai GQ Bar – JW Marriott Marquis La Porte Des Indes – The Address, Dubai Mall Omnia Gourmet – Jumeirah 1 Qbara – Wafi Court Complex Real Madrid Café – The Beach Mall Sapori di BICE – City Walk Avenue Mall
BEACH LIFE
Sass Café – DIFC
The Arabian Waterpark: the evolution of waterplay (Pg 64)
Table 9 by Darren Velvick – Hilton Dubai Creek
Cinema on the sands: watch movies al fresco at JBR The Walk beach
Taste Kitchen – Mercato Mall World on 44 Restaurant and Bar – Warwick Hotel
Jumeirah Corniche: encompassing family fun and entertainment (Pg 64) La Playa Beach Lounge: watch movies at the outdoor cinema on the beach
EVENTS
SHOPPING
HOTELS
The Beach mall: Dubai’s most exciting new destination (Pg 24)
Damac Maison – Dubai Mall street Doubletree by Hilton Dubai – Jumeirah Beach
Dubai Tour: opening race of the UCI Asia Tour
City Walk: an ideal outdoor destination with high-end lifestyle options
Dubai Food Festival: a month-long, city-wide food extravaganza (Pg 34)
Fortnum and Mason: at Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Boulevard
JW Marriott Marquis Second Tower – Sheikh Zayed Road
Blended: chilled out music festival at Dubai Media City Ampitheatre
Evolution 2015: expansion at Mall of the Emirates (Pg 23)
Marriott Al Jaddaf – Healthcare City
RedFest DXB: two-days of non-stop partying
Hollister: the preppy American label comes to Mall of the Emirates
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Four Seasons Dubai – Jumeirah Beach
The Summit Hotel Apartments – Dubai Marina Warwick Hotel Dubai – Sheikh Zayed Road
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INTRODUCTION
CITY ACCOLADES Dubai has an extensive trophy cabinet of awards and recognitions, and they really say it all! Here are just a few: Listed among the New York Times’ ‘Top 52 Places to Go in 2014’.
Number one in the world for Hotels and Shopping (TripAdvisor second annual cities survey).
Named as one of the three most dynamic cities in the world (Jones Lang Lasalle).
Ranked in top three most popular destinations among high-net-worth Chinese travellers (Hurun Report).
Included in Trip Advisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards ‘Best 25 Places to go’.
The seventh most influential city (Forbes Magazine). Ranked the favourite holiday destination for Indians (hotel.com Price Index (HP) Survey).
Among the top 20 Safest Cities in the World (Aon Hewitt).
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo ranked 25th best in the world (TripAdvisor).
5th most visited city in the world (MasterCard Global Destinations Cities Index 2014 – up two places from 2013).
Wild Wadi and Aquaventure waterparks, both made it into the top 10 Best Waterparks in the World in the 2014 (TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards).
@YACOBAHLI
NEW SKY LOUNGE ON 148TH FLOOR OF BURJ KHALIFA
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Family Fun Dubai is a destination that not only meets everyone’s expectations but one that exceeds them hands down creating family memories that last for generations. Planning a family holiday is no mean feat – it’s not easy ticking all the boxes for mum, dad, the teenagers and toddlers. But Dubai is confident that it appeals to all the family.
WHERE WISHES COME TRUE Do penguins live in the desert? Actually yes, but only in Dubai. You’ll also find a snowy mountain in this desert city, ideal for snowboarding, skiing and tobogganing. Meanwhile, slips and slides of a different kind await at the region’s biggest and most exciting 12
waterparks where families can make a splash defying gravity down the awesome chutes. And of course, Dubai’s sprawling sandy beaches beckon too – providing families with no end of opportunities to build sandcastles and enjoy the whole myriad of watersports. Add to this vast lush, green parks and the endless desert of sand dunes, Dubai is a veritable playground fit for families. In fact, with all the array of attractions and events on offer in Dubai, anyone would think the city was built for families. They wouldn’t
be far wrong, since it’s the ambition of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, that Dubai become the ‘world’s leading family destination’. It’s here that families can dash from the beaches to the parks; the snow dome to the desert; the ice-skating rinks to the multi-screen cinemas; the climbing walls and bowling alleys to the aquariums and waterparks and the ice-cream parlours to the all-youcan-eat buffets (catering to even the fussiest of eaters). And, if all this sounds far too energetic, the spas and golf courses provide that much-needed me time for mum and dad – happy in the knowledge that the kids are safe and secure in the hotels’ amazing kids’ clubs or entertainment arenas. Keeping all the generations happy is what a great family holiday is all about – and Dubai promises to do just that.
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FA M I LY
DUBAI AQUARIUM AND UNDERWATER ZOO
CREATING THE MEMORIES Dubai is all about non-stop fun; about doing the things you and your family really want to do and about creating memories that last a lifetime. Here are a few of our favourite family spots. DUBAI AQUARIUM AND UNDERWATER ZOO
THE LOST CHAMBERS
WHERE: The Dubai Mall.
WHAT: Based on The Lost City of
WHAT: Dubai Aquarium is home
to over 33,000 aquatic animals, including 400 sharks and rays. The largest suspended tank in the world, visitors can view from a distance or take a stroll through the aquarium in a 48m observation tunnel or board a glass-bottomed boat to see the life aquatic beneath their feet. But the ultimate thrill lies in taking a dip in the tank to feed the sharks. Not many people can say they learnt to scuba dive in a shopping mall!
Atlantis, the underwater tunnels let you explore shipwrecks and ruins while encountering a variety of exotic marine life. Sign up for a Behind the Scenes Tour to uncover the secrets of this massive aquarium. You’ll even have the chance to feed the animals yourself. Alternatively, catch the feeding frenzy in the magnificent Ambassador Lagoon – which holds more than 11 million litres of natural seawater.
thedubaiaquarium.com
atlantisthepalm.com/thelostchambers
WHERE: Atlantis The Palm.
DID YOU KNOW... Weighing in at 500kg and over 5m in length is the undisputed King Croc. This magnificent beast shares his home with some giant octopuses, who have almost no bones, three hearts, and can change colour. This home is, of course, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
AQUAVENTURE WHERE: Atlantis The Palm. WHAT: Aquaventure has captivated
adrenaline junkies from far and wide. Only the bravest will go for Poseidon’s Revenge, reaching speeds of 60kmph, before turning upside down! A world first is the Atlantean Flyers – a zip line integrated into a waterslide tower, which at 500m, also happens to be the longest zip line circuit in the Middle East. Old favourites such as the renowned Leap of Faith, Lazy Rivers and Splashers continue to keep families engaged, and when it’s time to relax, head to Atlantis Beach to watch the sun set.
atlantisthepalm.com/aquaventure
KIDZANIA WHERE: The Dubai Mall. WHAT: What do you want to do
when you grow up? Find out in the interactive imaginary child-size world of KidZania where children from four to 16 do what they do best – pretend to be grown-ups. This 80,000sq ft facility allows them to experience life in the real world. From surgeon to pilot, it offers over 80 role-playing activities in more than 60 different professions.
kidzania.ae W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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NEW!
FLIGHT SIMULATORS
DOLPHIN BAY WHERE: Atlantis The Palm.
WHERE: Mirdif City Centre,
WHAT: Living up to its marine
The Dubai Mall. WHAT: At some point we’ve all wanted to be a pilot. The new flight simulator attractions in Dubai let you do just that. Switch roles from passenger to pilot at ipilot or the Emirates A380 Experience. ipilot opened its doors to flying enthusiasts at Mirdif City Centre in 2014. Take your seat inside the cockpit and then take off from any of the 24,000 airports around the globe. Please note that while ipilot simulators closely resemble a Boeing 737NG, they are not the actual cockpits. An Emirates’ flying experience is every traveller’s dream and now you can take this a step further with the Emirates A380 Experience at The Dubai Mall. See what it’s like to be the pilot of the world’s largest aircraft as you soar in their flight simulator.
theme Atlantis is one of the most sophisticated dolphin habitats in the world. There’s no better place to get up-close and personal with these gentle mammals as they hug, kiss and even dance for you. TIP: Make a reservation before you go.
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THE YELLOW BOATS
atlantisthepalm.com/dolphinbay
WILD WADI WHERE: Jumeirah Beach Road. WHAT: Dubai’s first waterpark is still
making a splash. Standing in the shade of the iconic Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi is a waterpark with over 30 adrenalinepumping slides to choose from. On the tandem slides, brave riders plummet 120m at a hair-raising 80kmph while the ‘Master Blasters’ will rocket you up to 15m above ground level… just look out for the splash! There’s also a designated family area. Tiny tots will love the colourful slides, water guns and climbing frames.
SECRET TIP THE YELLOW BOATS See Dubai from a different perspective – in an inflatable (and very yellow) boat. ‘Setting sail’ from The Yellow Boats Dubai Marina headquarters, the boats make their way towards Palm Jumeirah where the gigantic Atlantis The Palm, the iconic Burj Al Arab and stunning royal palaces offer breathtaking views and more than a few opportunities for keen photographers. The Yellow Boats hold up to 12 people with tours lasting approximately 90 minutes. theyellowboats.com
jumeirah.com
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DISCOVER THE DESTINATION WITH DUBAI MARRIOTT HOTELS. With four brands and eight hotels in the city, Dubai Marriott Hotels welcome you to explore this world class destination. Whether you would like to stay close to Business Bay and the downtown area, a stone’s throw away from the traditional souks, in the heart of Dubai Marina or secluded Green Community; Marriott has Dubai covered. 39 superb restaurants, bars and lounges along with four world class spas will make your Dubai stay unforgettable.
BOOK NOW marriott.com/dubai arabic.marriott.com
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FA M I LY
NEW!
TRAMPOLINE PARKS
WHERE: Bounce and Jump Boxx,
Al Quoz and Uptown Mirdiff. WHAT: How high is high? Find out at Dubai’s two new trampoline parks. Trampolining is the newest craze sweeping the emirate. The energy at Bounce is infectious. Whether it’s running up the wall, playing airborne dodgeball or showing some skills in the Free Jump arena – just remember that what goes up must come down. Ditch the regular weekend party and head to Jump Boxx. Here the DJ pumps up the music, encouraging jumpers to bounce with the rhythm. Did you know that bouncing burns three times more calories than regular exercise? Join the Fit Boxx classes and jump, spin and fly your way to health. TIP: Reserve your space in advance.
bounce.ae jump-boxx.com
BOUNCE
SKI DUBAI WHERE: Mall of the Emirates. WHAT: While there are a number of
incredible things about Ski Dubai, let’s just start with the obvious. This snow-covered mountain stands in the midst of a shopping mall, in a desert country. With 22,500sq m of indoor ski area, five different ski runs, tube slides, toboggan runs and an alpine café – ideal for sipping hot chocolate
in minus four degrees – and a colony of snow penguins, Ski Dubai is the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort. N E W Ski Dubai now features Snow Bullet (the world’s first 150m indoor zipline). TIP: Ski Dubai offers lessons for beginners (prior booking is required). The entry ticket includes clothing and equipment but bring your own gloves.
SEGA REPUBLIC
skidxb.com
segarepublic.com
WHERE: The Dubai Mall. WHAT: SEGA Republic is a truly
massive, indoor theme park and arcade. With racing bumper cars, laser mazes and an enormous mechanical half pipe, as well as over 170 video and arcade games, you might struggle to drag yourself away at the end of the day.
DID YOU KNOW... Dubai Miracle Garden has over 45 million flowers. The 80,000sqft garden has even scooped up a Guinness Book of World Records certificate for having the largest vertical garden in the world. It also includes a 1,800sq m butterfly garden, comprising nine domes filled with various species. dubaimiraclegarden.com
SKI DUBAI
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TEE & PUTT MINI GOLF DUBAI
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WHERE: Wafi Mall. WHAT: While traditional mini-
golf is fun, Tee & Putt Mini Golf ups the fun by plunging the course into darkness. Not only is it claimed to be the most challenging blacklit 18-hole miniature golf, spacethemed course around, but it is also the region’s first ‘glowin-the-dark’ course.
teeandputt.com
THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN WHERE: The Dubai Mall. WHAT: Up to 22,000 gallons
of water shoot up to 500ft into the air, swaying in time to stirring music, producing one of Dubai’s most popular shows and the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Evening shows take place every day from 6pm.
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The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) saves and cares for hundreds of injured turtles each year. Based at Jumeirah’s Burj Al Arab and Mina A’Salam hotels, the DTRP runs in collaboration with the emirate’s Wildlife Protection Office and aims to care for, protect and rehabilitate sick turtles, while also explaining and publicizing the threats faced by these marine creatures. A total of 562 turtles have been rescued and released since the project began in 2004. Some have been fitted with satellite tags, allowing the Jumeirah Group to trace their former patients and learn more about these endangered creatures. The Hawksbill turtle, native to the Middle East, is listed as critically endangered with only an estimated 8,000 nesting females left worldwide. Without exception, all of the turtles found in the DTRP were very sick or injured. The turtles are nursed back to health at the Burj Al Arab Aquarium, where their recovery is closely monitored. Once DTRP’s team is satisfied with the progress and condition of the turtles, they are transferred to the Mina A’Salam turtle enclosure, where they are monitored in the final stages of rehabilitation before being released back into UAE territorial waters. See the turtles first hand in the pools at Mina A’Salam – they’re open from 11am on Wednesdays and 1pm on Fridays. Admission is free.
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DID YOU KNOW... Each year the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project releases up to 350 formerly injured turtles back into the wild.
350 PER YEAR
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Shopping: like nowhere else When it comes to retail therapy, Dubai sets the bar as high as it will go. Shopping in Dubai isn’t just retail therapy – it is sightseeing, soaking up culture, indulging in epicurean delights and engaging in fantastic entertainment all rolled into one. Where else in the world can you swim with sharks just a few metres away from the world’s largest collection of leading retail brands? Where else can you break off from your shopping spree to have a quick ski down a snowy mountain? In what other city can you spend the morning bartering for spices in an historical Arabian souk and then spend the afternoon sauntering down Fashion Avenue 22
browsing for the latest designer handbag or luxury watch? With over 95 shopping malls (including the world’s largest – The Dubai Mall), Dubai is the A to Z of retail. From leading couturiers, like Galeries Lafayette, Harvey Nichols, Bloomingdales and Fortnum and Mason, every exclusive and leading global brand is on sale here. In fact, Dubai ranks in second place – just behind London – as being the city with the highest number of international retailers represented. Yet, having said that, there’s also a healthy collection of home-grown boutiques
and labels, ideal for those looking for something unique and bespoke. But buying is just a very small part of the picture here. Dubai owes its elite shopping status to the remarkable experiences that happen to you, and around you, as you trawl the city’s colossal malls. In Dubai, ‘going to the mall’ can mean shopping; watching dancing fountains; skydiving in a simulated wind tunnel; skiing down a black run; walking through an aquarium; taking in a show and dining in restaurants serving cuisine from around the globe. And, of course, the shopping experience is incomplete until you have explored the city’s ancient souks that flank Dubai’s historic Creek. This shopping trip is a true Arabian delight.
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SH O P P I N G
DON’T MISS: Free yoga sessions on
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the lawns on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings. STAR ATTRACTION: The UAE’s first outdoor cinema screen; sand sculptures by Australian artist Jenny Rossen. ENTERTAINMENT: Reel Cinemas. DINE: Eggspectations; Leopold’s of London; The Counter; Magnolia Bakery. GET THERE: The nearest Dubai Metro station is Dubai Marina on the Red Line.
thebeach.ae
3. MALL OF THE EMIRATES
MALL TRAWL With nearly a hundred malls and shopping centres in the emirate, even seasoned shopaholics may need to pace themselves. Here are a few malls that we really love. 1. IBN BATTUTA Designed around the travels of the famous Arab explorer Ibn Battuta, each section represents one of the countries the adventurer travelled to – China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia and Andalusia – giving a unique sense and flavour of these diverse countries. ANCHOR STORES: Debenhams; Paris Gallery; Sharaf DG; H&M. SPLURGE AT: AIIZ; BC Bulgari; Bauhaus; Evisu; Ginger and Lace. SPEND AT: Bayti; Columbia; Next; Strandbags; Timberland; Woolworths. DON’T MISS: Hot-air ballooning at Sky Dubai; the intricately painted mall ceiling and the magnificent Elephant Clock in the India Court. STAR ATTRACTION: Ibn Battuta boasts the region’s first IMAX theatre. ENTERTAINMENT: Fun City; Novo Cinemas; Switch Bowling. N E W DINE: Over 50 outlets including the Lemonade diner and Slapfish seafood restaurant. GET THERE: Take the Dubai Metro Red Line to the Ibn Battuta station.
ibnbattutamall.com NEW!
2. THE BEACH
The Beach sits on the seafront of the hugely popular Jumeirah Beach Residence. There is no better place to combine the pleasures of sun, sea and shopping than here. ANCHOR STORE: Mothercare. SPLURGE AT: Designer’s Club. SPEND AT: Adventure HQ; Hamac; L’Occitane; Sephora; Patrizia Pepe; Victoria’s Secret.
Mall of the Emirates’ (MOE) claim to fame is the truly remarkable Ski Dubai. Currently, MOE is undergoing a massive expansion labeled Evolution 2015. This will include the addition of over 30 new fashion stores. ANCHOR STORES: Carrefour; Harvey Nichols; Jashanmal; Virgin Megastore. SPLURGE AT: MOE’s Fashion Dome and Via Rodeo are a dream come true for every fashionista. Together they house over 80 internationallyrenowned luxury labels, including Bottega Veneta; Breitling; Christian Louboutin; Jimmy Choo; Michael Kors; Prada and Ralph Lauren. SPEND AT: American Eagle Outfitters; Coach; Forever 21; Guess; H&M; Juicy Couture; Kenneth Cole; Nautica. DON’T MISS: DUCTAC is where Dubai’s theatrical and artistic community meets with a variety of performances, exhibitions, classes and workshops taking place every week. STAR ATTRACTION: Ski Dubai. ENTERTAINMENT: Peekaboo; Magic Planet; Vox Cinemas. DINE: Choose from over 95 culinary options, from fast food at Grill’O to fine dining at Asha’s. GET THERE: Take the Dubai Metro Red Line to the Mall of the Emirates station.
malloftheemirates.com W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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4. TOWN CENTRE JUMEIRAH From getting a health check to practising yoga, to delicious sushi, this mall ticks all the boxes. ANCHOR STORES: First Choice, Marié Claire. SPLURGE AT: Boom & Mellow for high-end accessories. SPEND AT: Anne Klein; Little Luxuries; Naturalizer. DON’T MISS: Specialty art stores: Café Ceramique; Craft Land; Maska and Paper Lane. STAR ATTRACTION: The world’s first Hello Kitty Beauty Spa. ENTERTAINMENT: Find your inner calm at Zen Yoga. DINE: Cafe Bateel; La Cafette; Mama Tani (authentic Emirati cuisine). GET THERE: Dubai Taxi or Bus. Town Centre Jumeirah is close to Mercato.
towncentrejumeirah.com
5. MERCATO Mercato is built to resemble a Tuscan village, complete with cobbled walkways and charming piazzas. ANCHOR STORE: Virgin Megastore. SPLURGE AT: Armani Jeans; Massimo Dutti; Sacoor Brothers; Al Liali Jewellery. SPEND AT: Bershka; Beyond the Beach; Diesel; Mango; Nine West; Promod; Pull and Bear; Tommy Hilfiger. DON’T MISS: Belgian Milliner Valerie Corona’s annual hat exhibition in the run up to the Dubai World Cup. STAR ATTRACTION: Even indoors, it almost feels like being seated al fresco. ENTERTAINMENT: Fun City; Vox Cinemas. DINE: Milk & Honey; Shake Shack; and the N E W Taste Kitchen. GET THERE: Dubai Taxi or Dubai Bus. Mercato is on Jumeirah Beach Road; close to the grand Jumeirah Mosque.
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6. THE DUBAI MALL This massive entertainment and leisure complex heaves with shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. In 2012, The Dubai Mall was the world’s most-visited shopping and leisure destination, attracting more than 65 million visitors – that beats the number of visitors who went to New York City in the same year! ANCHOR STORES: Galeries Lafayette; Debenhams; Bloomingdale’s; Waitrose; Marks & Spencer. SPLURGE AT: Alexander McQueen; Armani; Burberry; Chanel; Gucci; Louis Vuitton and Versace. SPEND AT: Gap; Banana Republic; Mumbai Se; Topshop. DON’T MISS: Candylicious (the world’s largest candy shop); Book World of Kinokuniya (it stocks over half a million books.) STAR ATTRACTIONS: Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo; the Dubai Fountain; the Waterfall; At The Top, Burj Khalifa; DubaiDino; the Emirates A380 Experience. ENTERTAINMENT: KidZania; SEGA Republic; Dubai Ice Rink; Reel Cinemas. DINE: Over 200 food and beverage outlets including Armani/Dubai Caffè; Bloomsbury’s; Lafayette Gourmet; Vogue Café; Wafi Gourmet. GET THERE: Take the Dubai Metro Red Line to the Burj Khalifa Station. Hop on to a feeder bus to the mall or walk across the Metro Link Bridge.
thedubaimall.com
7. BURJUMAN With over 300 leading haute couture brands, BurJuman is the epitome of high fashion. ANCHOR STORE: Saks Fifth Avenue. SPLURGE AT: Cartier; Chanel; Dior; Dolce & Gabbana; Fendi; Hermes; Louis Vuitton; Van Cleef & Arpels; Valentino; Versace; Vertu. SPEND AT: DKNY; Salsa; Zara; Lacoste. DON’T MISS: The pink month in October with a Pink Walkathon and
BAG A BARGAIN Bargain hunters will be at home in Dubai but a few tips can’t hurt! GLOBAL VILLAGE
With more than 65 countries coming together in 37 lavish pavilions, showcasing their indigenous products, Global Village is a must see. Usually held from October to March, hoards of people descend upon its colourful pavilions to experience cultures from around the world, with captivating shows, lively parades and lavish spreads of exotic food. INDIAN ELEGANCE
Meena Bazaar in Bur Dubai is reminiscent of an upscale Indian market. Bolts of colours in every fabric imaginable, racks of ready-made clothing, rows of shops selling jewellery in gold, diamonds and even imitation jewellery are all packed in CARRY ON IN KARAMA
Vendors at Karama Complex sell a plethora of products such as purses and watches, pashminas, Arabic musical instruments and other trinkets at reasonable prices. SUIT YOURSELF
If your tastes are specific, then don’t miss the tailors in Satwa. They can replicate any style from a magazine page at extremely reasonable prices. Buy your fabrics from the rows of shops on Diyafah Street and place your order! SOMEONE ELSE’S TREASURE
Dubai Flea Market is a platform for private individuals selling used items or handicrafts in the leafy setting of Zabeel Park or in uptown Mirdiff.
D U B A I T O U R I S M G U I D E 2015
Sheikh
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A new level of luxury.
Comprising two iconic towers, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai stands elevated above Dubai’s Business Bay on Sheikh Zayed Road, in the heart of one of the most desirable locations in the city, offering a spectrum of facilities for the most discerning travelers. 1,608 LUXURIOUS GUEST ROOMS 14 AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANTS, BARS AND LOUNGES SARAY SPA FEATURING TRADITIONAL HAMMAMS AND A DEAD SEA FLOATATION POOL STATE-OF-THE-ART HEALTH CLUB AND FITNESS FACILITIES Book your next stay now online on jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com, email jwmarquis.dubai@marriott.com or call +971 4 414 0000.
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SH O P P I N G
a Pink Book sale as part of the international campaign to raise breast cancer awareness. STAR ATTRACTION: N E W Carrefour. ENTERTAINMENT: BurJuman hosts a variety of events all year round, such as circus and theatrical shows. DINE: Sky Lobby Cafe; Hatam Restaurant; Johnny Carino’s; Masala Restaurant; The Orchestra Café. GET THERE: Take the Dubai Metro to BurJuman station.
burjuman.com
8. DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY MALL The crescent-shaped Festival Centre stands majestically on the banks of the historic Dubai Creek boasting a picturesque waterfront setting. ANCHOR STORES: Toys ‘R’Us; Marks and Spencer; Paris Gallery. SPLURGE AT: Ferrari Store; Cortefiel; River Woods. SPEND AT: Aeropostalé; Bench; Diesel; Levi’s; Massimo Dutti; New Yorker. DON’T MISS: Marvel at Dubai’s stunning skyline from the centre’s waterfront promenade. STAR ATTRACTION: Hard Rock Café.
10. WAFI MALL Distinguished by its pyramid structure, stained-glass windows, mosaics and sculptures, Wafi is ideal for shopping and sightseeing. It is also well known for its local labels. ANCHOR STORE: Marks and Spencer. SPLURGE AT: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons; Salam Department Store; Bugatti; Chanel; Escada; Roberto Cavalli; Missoni. SPEND AT: Amouage; Etoile La boutique; Jaeger; Sacoche. DON’T MISS: ‘Movies Under the Stars’ every Sunday, 8.30pm at Wafi Rooftop Gardens. STAR ATTRACTIONS: Spin Dubai Restaurant; Souk Khan Murjan.
ENTERTAINMENT: Bowling City, Fun Planet; Living Rooms; Novo Cinema. DINE: InterContinental Dubai Festival City and Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City have an array of speciality restaurants. GET THERE: Al Jadaf metro station on Dubai Metro’s Green Line is closest. Then hire a taxi for the onward journey.
festivalcentre.com
DUBAI MALL
9. DEIRA CITY CENTRE Each year, over 20 million shoppers walk through DCC, making it one of the region’s most popular malls with locals. ANCHOR STORE: Carrefour. SPLURGE AT: Burberry; Rectangle Jaune; Verri; Omega. SPEND AT: Aéropostale; Esprit; Guess; Kingsley Heath; New Look. DON’T MISS: The wide range of whimsical designs, prints, gifts, soft toys and cards at the Fay Lawson store. STAR ATTRACTION: Vox Cinema’s 4DX experience adds sensory experiences like smell, wind and even water effects. ENTERTAINMENT: Magic Planet; VOX Cinemas.
ENTERTAINMENT: Kids Connection;
Tee & Putt Mini Golf. DINE: Asha’s; Medzo; Thai Chi
Restaurant; Vintage; Qbara. GET THERE: Take Dubai Metro’s Green Line to the Dubai Healthcare City metro station, just a two-minute walk from Wafi.
wafi.com
WAFI MALL
MIRDIF CITY CENTRE DINE: Chili’s; Gazebo; L’Auberge;
La Cite Brasserie; Wild Ginger. GET THERE: Deira City Centre metro
station is on Dubai Metro’s Red Line.
citycentredeira.com
11. MIRDIF CITY CENTRE This light and airy mall is full of affordable stores, family entertainment and restaurants. It’s a particular favourite with locals too. ANCHOR STORES: Carrefour; Debenhams; Crate and Barrel; Decathlon; Hamley’s and Pottery Barn. SPLURGE AT: Aizone; Porsche Design, BCBGMAXAZRIA; Carolina Herrera; Cole Haan. SPEND AT: Agatha; Azzaro; Bebe; Camaieu; Desigual; Etam; Furla; Jane Norman. DON’T MISS: Give your gifts the perfect finishing touch with Paperchase’s unique gift-wraps and cards. STAR ATTRACTION: Indoor sky diving at iFly Dubai. ENTERTAINMENT: Magic Planet; Soccer Circus; Aquaplay; Little Explorers; Sky Trail; VOX Cinemas. DINE: Abd El Wahab; Carluccio’s; Kosebasi Anatolian Turkish Grill; P.F. Changs; Zafran. GET THERE: Dubai Metro’s Rashidiya station is closest to the mall. Take the feeder bus F10 to the mall or hail a taxi.
citycentremirdif.com W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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SHOP FOR ISLAMIC HERITAGE
SOUVENIRS FROM THE SOUK For an authentic Arabian shopping excursion, head to any of the emirate’s traditional souks for a real sensory experience. GLITTERATI
MODERN DAY SOUKS
The Deira Gold Souk is the largest gold market in the world. 22-karat Indian extravaganzas, 18-karat delicate Italian pieces, diamond-encrusted ornaments and strings of pearls glint from each window making it clear why Dubai is known as the ‘City of Gold’. In operation since the 1940s, there are over 300 shops in the covered market, each one bursting with gold. Approximately 10 tonnes of gold are present at any given time in the souk.
Souk Al Bahar in Downtown Dubai (right next to The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa) is a majestic Arabesque citadel brimming with handicrafts, perfumes, carpets, Arabic coffee shops and restaurants. Souk Khan Murjan at Wafi draws inspiration from 14th century Egypt, Syria, Turkey and Morocco for its interiors and its wares. Find priceless objets d’art from across the Arab world here. The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is another destination that retains the spirit of the old Arabian markets. Meander through cobbled walkways and lantern-lit hallways as the aromas of Arabian oud and spices inspire you.
BOUNTIES FROM THE SEA Even if you don’t plan on cooking during your holiday in Dubai, the fish market is worth a trip for a few snapshots to take back home. The variety of fresh catch on display is truly vast.
FABRIC FUN On the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek stands the Textile Souk. Reams of silks, satins, voiles and pashminas in every colour and hue imaginable are here. The prices are reasonable and haggling is the norm. 28
The rich influences of Persian, Byzantine, Sassanian and Turkish styles and forms are clearly evident in authentic Emirati accessories and homeware. Connoisseurs can choose from exquisite Mughal jewellery encrusted with precious stones; beautiful astrolabes (astronomical clocks); silver, bronze and copper surahis (long-necked pitchers), samawars (tea makers), table ware, candle holders and oil lamps and even elaborately knotted carpets. FOR BUYING YOUR OWN PIECE OF HISTORY CHECK OUT:
Miraj Islamic Art Centre mirajislamicartcentre.com Heritage Touch heritage-touch.com Fakih Antiques Museum fakihcollections.com
SPICE IT UP If you love cooking, head to the Spice Souk near Dubai Creek, on the Deira side. Heaving with the heady scents of spices and herbs, you’ll be greeted with the sight of hessian sacks brimming with saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg and scores of other exotic ingredients.
D U B A I T O U R I S M G U I D E 2015
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There is nothing better than an open view to keep an open mind
F o r r e s e r v a t i o n : T. + 9 7 1 4 2 9 4 1 2 2 2 - E . h 2 0 2 2 @ a c c o r. c o m - w w w . p u l l m a n h o t e l s . c o m / 2 0 2 2
J O I N O U R G L O B A L L O YA L T Y P RO G R A M AT ACCO R H OT E L S . CO M
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SH O P P I N G
SECRET TIP For fashion that’s truly unique, head to these homegrown stores: House of Nomad indulges the traveller within. Emirati designers Saleh Al Bana and Ahmad Al Sayed imprint gowns, skirts, jackets and trousers with intricate Arabic calligraphy. West LA Boutique at Sunset Mall houses Alia Korayem retro-infused couture collection. Hollywood-inspired pieces are handmade in Paris.
FOCUS ON FESTIVALS Throughout the year the malls are at the heart of the fun, laying on shows and extravaganzas for all the family. And don’t forget the amazing discounts. DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL The annual Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is held each January, and sees massive sales across thousands of shops as well as mega prizes awarded to lucky shoppers – and by mega we mean Lamborghini, Bentley and Infiniti cars, apartments, gold and cash! As the name suggests, this really is a festival – not just a sales season. Since its launch in 1996, the DSF has offered over Dhs1.7 billion in prizes. It also sets the stage for some amazing entertainment by the DSF Carnival. Parks and precincts become outdoor theatres, attracting audiences in their thousands. Al Seef Street and Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard host parades of over 1,000 street performers and artists from musicians and dancers, to acrobats, stilt walkers, gymnasts and many more.
mydsf.ae
DID YOU KNOW... In 2015, Dubai Shopping Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary, with organizers promising to make it an event to remember.
DUBAI SUMMER SURPRISES Coinciding with the summer school vacation, Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) provides fun, knowledge and amusement for children. Modhesh, the festival’s adorable yellow mascot, takes over the city, while the young and young-at-heart naturally gravitate towards Modhesh World – an enormous indoor funfair. Most malls also stage shows, parades and other child-centric activities during this time.
summerisdubai.com
EID IN DUBAI Celebrating Islamic culture and tradition, the Eid in Dubai festival is held during Eid Al Fitr, exhibiting parades, live performances, fetes, carnivals, firework displays and shopping discounts across the city. The Ramadan Night Market is held at the Dubai World Trade Centre during the last 10 days of Ramadan and throughout Eid. A consumer lifestyle exhibition, it offers apparel, gifts, electronics, perfumes, cosmetics, jewellery and household items.
WEEKEND BUYS Shopping in Dubai gets even more exciting at weekends as many markets pop up across the city. Here’s our pick:
ARTE ART & CRAFT MARKET AND SOUK
GOOD FOR: Hand-made items from the UAE’s talented artisans. Think home decor, jewellery, artwork, photography, ceramics, woodwork, mosaics, accessories, a variety of skincare products plus homemade food and even art workshops. WHERE: Times Square Center, Arabian Center. arte.ae
COVENT GARDEN MARKET
GOOD FOR: Affordable gifts, souvenirs, hand-made items, accessories and home décor. WHERE: Dubai Festival City Mall. coventgardenmarket.ae
RIPE ORGANIC MARKET
GOOD FOR: Seasonal, organic and fresh local produce is bought straight from the fields and sold alongside local artisans’ wares. WHERE: Zabeel Park. ripeme.com
mydsf.ae W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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Culinary Delights From the feasts served up at the ubiquitous brunches to fish served straight from the boat at a beachside shack, Dubai’s dining is nothing if not diverse. Catering to the tastes of the over 200 nationalities that live here, Dubai is a city that serves the world on a plate.
LOCAL FLAVOURS Emirati food is much like its culture – rich, varied and full of flavour. Every part of the meal is distinct, whether it’s the variety of Arabic breads served piping hot from the oven or the extensive mezze of creamy dips and fresh salads. No mezze is complete without hummus (creamy chickpea dip), tabbouleh (salad made of cracked wheat and parsley) and baba ghanoush (a mash of grilled 32
aubergines and other greens). The main course is a hearty affair too. Dishes such as ouzi (a whole baby goat stuffed with rice, raisins, nuts and lentils) and machboos (an elaborate preparation of slow-cooked lamb or chicken with spices, dried lemon, rice and onion) are the highlights of any Emirati feast. There are numerous restaurants across town where you can find the real taste of Arabia. Favourites include Bait 1971 next to the Offshore Sailing Club, Al Fanar in Dubai Festival City and Al Hadheera within the fort-like complex of the luxurious Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and
Spa. Opened in late 2013, Qbara offers uber chic surroundings in which to taste the most divine local dishes such as sayadieh of black cod with garlic, onions and spices and Egyptian-style pigeon with freekah and medjoul dates. Of course, no trip to Dubai would be complete without a camel milk ‘camelchino’. At Cafe2Go located at Al Murooj Rotana, opposite The Dubai Mall, a selection of camel milkbased products is available including camelchinos, camel cheese sandwiches and camel-milk frappes. Likewise at The Majlis, a chic outlet at The Dubai Mall, camel milk is used to prepare a wide range of delicious pastries, icecreams and chocolates. For a camel burger, head to The Local House within the Al Fahidi Historic District. Al Bait: +971 4 394 4441 alfanarrestaurant.com meydanhotels.com/babalshams qbara.ae cafe2go.ae themajlisdubai.com localhousedubai.com
D U B A I T O U R I S M G U I D E 2015
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GA S T R O N O M Y A N D N I G H T L I F E
PIER CHIC, MADINAT JUMEIRAH
AT.MOSPHERE
CAFÉ LIFE
HIGH TEA
BRUNCH OUT
The café scene in Dubai is a burgeoning one, and there are a few spots that really stand out. Tom & Serg’s deli-style menu is responsible for the long queues that form outside its door every weekend. Options include lamb and quinoa salad and a range of sandwiches, including roast chicken and aubergine with halloumi cheese served inside piping hot piadina bread. The Lime Tree Café has impressed café goers for some time with its wide range of healthy salads, thirst-quenching juices and legendary carrot cake. For most people coffee and reading go hand-in-hand. Making the habit a trend are BookMunch and The Archive both with libraries.
The English tradition of high tea is fully embraced here in Dubai. Served on an outdoor terrace that overlooks its lush polo fields, Desert Palm Jewel Afternoon Tea lets you catch the drama and excitement of the Sport of Kings while indulging in scones, cakes and massive fruit platters. The polo season runs between October and April. Tea meets tee at The Address Montgomerie Dubai. Indulge in delicate finger sandwiches on an outdoor terrace overlooking the golf course. For a really high tea, stop for off at At.mosphere, on the 122nd level of Burj Khalifa. TIP: Always remember to book ahead!
Brunch is an institution in Dubai. Traditionally on a Friday, Dubai’s restaurants put on a spread like no other. Each venue offers its own theme. At Madinat Jumeirah’s Al Qasr, the buffet is so vast that staff hand out maps for guests to navigate their way through the humongous spread. Alternatively, Blades at the Al Badia Golf Club offers brunch goers picnic hampers brimming with exquisite food to enjoy on the lawns overlooking the golf course. A new brunch to try is Imperium’s New Orleans Jazz Brunch at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray where jazz music accompanies Creole, Cajun and Louisiana flavours.
desertpalm.com theaddress.com atmosphereburjkhalifa.com
madinatjumeirah.com diningdfc.com jumeirah.com
tomandserg.com thelimetreecafe.com bookmunchcafe.com thearchivedubai.tumblr.com
DINE ON THE CREEK One spectacular way to take in the must-see sights of Dubai Creek is to board the city’s renowned Bateaux Dubai. This five-star vessel serves up a sumptuous à la carte dinner while you cruise, taking in the views in comfort and style.
DID YOU KNOW... Camel milk is three times higher in vitamin C than cow’s milk and 10 times higher in iron?
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jaresortshotels.com W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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NEW!
DUBAI FOOD FESTIVAL
When a city boasts over 2,000 restaurants and a demography of 200 nationalities, each of which has imported the flavours of their own hearths, you can be assured that the food is bound to be diverse. To celebrate Dubai’s gastronomic diversity, 2014 saw the launch of the Dubai Food Festival and following its runaway success, it has now become an annual celebration of all things food. Running from 6-28 February 2015, the Dubai Food Festival will be a city-wide celebration, incorporating numerous food-related celebrations, including The Dubai Food Carnival, Mystery Culinary Bus Tours, Gourmet Trails and Street Nights. Showcasing the emirate’s diverse food offering, events will include food tastings, cookery classes, celebritychef appearances, hands-on cooking contests and loads of family entertainment and music – the festival is packed with all the ingredients for a fabulous and foodie day out! Returning again is the popular Beach Canteen, where some of the city’s favourite homegrown restaurant concepts set up stalls on the sands of Kite Beach, alongside children’s play areas, table tennis contests and yoga lessons on the beach. Renowned DJs also spin out tracks after dark, providing the perfect accompaniment to your main course. This year the Dubai Food Festival is also serving up an extra helping of Emirati dishes – celebrating the delicious flavours of the local cuisine with Arabian-inspired entertainment on the side.
dubaifoodfestival.com
STREET FOOD Satwa’s Ravi Restaurant has become something of a legend and has been wowing diners with its Pakistani cuisine for decades. Try the haleem, chicken tikka and seekh kebabs with freshly baked bread from the tandoor. 34
Housed in a portacabin on Jumeirah Beach Road, Bu Qtair’s seafood has often been voted the best in the city. The fried pomfret, chilli prawns and marinated hammour have drawn a devoted following for more than two decades.
Ravi Restaurant: +971 4 331 5353 Bu Qtair’s: +971 55 705 2130
TASTE OF DUBAI Around 30 of the city’s finest dining establishments meet at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre to offer a series of cookery classes, master chef demos and tasting opportunities. In 2015, Taste of Dubai is being held from March 12-14.
SECRET TIP BBQ Donut, offers orange doughnut-shaped floating barbecue stations launched at The Boardwalk, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club. They seat four and come with a barbecue station, crockery and glassware and a cool box packed with cold mezze starters, salads, a platter of rib-eye steak, chicken breasts, fish, prawns, jacket potatoes, and, of course, doughnuts. dubaigolf.com
MASTERCLASSES Gourmet masterclasses have been cooking up a storm in Dubai’s kitchens. Whether you’re a complete novice in the kitchen or a wannabe masterchef, there’s a course for you. And the great thing is that you can eat the fruits of your labour at the end of the class. The chefs at Armani Hotel Dubai regularly hold classes in Italian, Indian and Japanese cuisine.
At Nobu, Atlantis The Palm, the Chef de Cuisine teaches the art of creating perfect sushi. For a more informal setting head to Jones the Grocer, where you’ll learn to conjure up everything from bread and soups to canapés and delicious desserts. armanihotels.com atlantisthepalm.com jonesthegrocer.com
D U B A I T O U R I S M G U I D E 2015
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Luxury Liberate
Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Sheikh Zayed Rd. Dubai, UAE | +971 4 308 0000 reservations.royaldubai@radissonblu.com | radisson.com/royal-dubai Follow us on: RadissonRoyalDubai RadissonRoyal
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REAL MADRID CAFÉ
NEW ON THE BLOCK
CLÉ DUBAI
NEW!
With new restaurants opening almost every month in Dubai, it’s hard to keep track of them all. Here are a few starters on the city’s menu in 2014.
REAL MADRID CAFÉ
OMNIA GOURMET
WHERE: The Beach Mall.
WHERE: Jumeirah.
The world’s first Real Madrid Café serves up Spanish-inspired dishes such as gazpacho, omelettes and paella. Complementing the menu is the football-themed interior. Fans can also purchase club merchandise and memorabilia, and of course, this is the place to watch all the major matches.
The brainchild of Hungarian/ Bulgarian celebrity chef Silvena Rowe, Omnia Gourmet celebrates the flavours of Middle Eastern cuisine and has an extensive range of raw, sugarfree, gluten-free, dairy-free, Paleo and vegan desserts.
ginzaretail.com/restaurants realmadrid-cafe
CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK
Taste Kitchen mercatoshoppingmall.com/ taste-kitchen Cielo Tapas Bar & Sky Lounge cielodubai.com Clinton Street Baking Company clintonstreetbaking.com Table 9 by Darren Velvick table9dubai.com Sapori di BICE saporidibice.com
+971 4 343 7181
CLÉ DUBAI BY GREG MALOUF
WHERE: The Address, Downtown Dubai. Los Angeles-based chef-cumrestaurateur, Wolfgang Puck, has finally come to Dubai – his first foray into the Middle East. As the name suggests, Cut excels at serving prime cuts as well as an outstanding selection of seafood.
WHERE: Al Fattan Currency House. Greg Malouf is widely regarded as a master of modern Middle Eastern cuisine. He now brings this expertise to Clé Dubai. Describing it as his ‘life’s work’, his restaurant serves contemporary Middle Eastern fare. There is also a lounge serving signature drinks, a vast open-air terrace and a performance space.
theaddress.com
facebook.com/cledubai
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OTHER 2014 RESTAURANT OPENINGS
SAPORI DI BICE
D U B A I T O U R I S M G U I D E 2015
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P.O.Box 42211, Dubai – United Arab Emirates, Tel +971 4 2232222, Fax +971 2278222 www.tajhotels.com facebook.com/TajPalaceDubai
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pinterest.com/tajpalace56
instagram.com/tajpalacehotel_dubai
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GA S T R O N O M Y A N D N I G H T L I F E
WORLD ON 44 RESTAURANT
SASS CAFÉ
WHERE: Warwick Hotel.
The popular Monaco spot arrives in Dubai, bringing panache and sophisticated jazz with it. The vast terrace with views of the Burj Khalifa is the place to socialise, while the piano bar is ideal for relaxing. The menu features a variety of Mediterranean delights such as chocolate soufflés a la Sass.
This signature French and South American restaurant serves delicious seafood and meat dishes alongside a sumptuous selection of tapas, cheese, ceviche and tartare and tiraditos, among others – all complemented with stunning 360° views of Dubai.
warwickhotels.com
LA PORTE DES INDES WHERE: The Address, Dubai Mall.
WHERE: DIFC.
sasscafe-dubai.ae
DON ALFONSO 1890
PIER 7
Pier 7 – the seven-storey complex of restaurants and lounges – has come alive. In the heart of Dubai Marina, each of these new seven hotspots offers a distinct flavour and marina views. Going up – here’s the low down.
7 ATELIER M
Chef entrepreneur Mohammad Islam (the man behind Chateau Marmont and The Mercer in New York) brings to the city three floors of Gatsby-esque glamour. atelierm.ae
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This critically-acclaimed Indian restaurant, with branches in London and Brussels, takes its inspiration from the Gallic-influenced cuisine of the former French-Indian colony, Pondicherry. Expect rich seafood stews and stir-fried beef.
WHERE: Shangri-la Hotel.
ASIA ASIA
Overseen by Michelin-starred Don Alfonso and headed by Christian de Nadai, this restaurant serves flawless Italian dishes. Think the freshest of mozzarella, homemade gnocchi and tender lamb.
Asia Asia serves up the flavours and food cultures of countries from across the ancient spice route. asia-asia.com
laportedesindes.com
donalfonso.ae
Part of a chain – there’s another at Souk Al Bahar – this swish Arabic eatery serves authentic Lebanese fare. ghiaholding.com
5 ABD EL WAHAB
4 THE SCENE
The Scene excels at eclectic British dishes and classics, such as shepherd’s pie and chocolate and peanut butter fondant. thescenedubai.com
3 CARGO
This raw and rustic venue serves sharing dishes including sesame-crusted Ahi tuna and lemongrass chicken skewers, or Pad Thai with smoked duck. cargo-dubai.com
2 O CACTI
Pier 7’s ode to Mexico, O Cacti doubles up as a popular nightspot thanks to its Latino DJ. ocactiuae.com
1 FÜMÉ
PIER 7
Fümé serves up Asian–European fare, offering delicious smoked dishes in a stripped-down vintage-style interior. fume-eatery.com
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CIRQUE LE SOIR
PARTY ALL NIGHT After dark it’s just the sun that goes to bed - the rest of the city is in full-on party mode. Join the fun at these hot spots.
SPIN If ping pong is your thing head to Spin, Dubai’s first ping pong lounge and nightclub. Owned by Academy Award-winning Susan Sarandon, it features the only 18-carat-gold table tennis table in the world.
spingalactic.com
CIRQUE LE SOIR While each night at Cirque Le Soir serves up a different music genre – hip hop, R’n’B, pop - you don’t just go there to dance. Cirque Le Soir is a circus-themed club run by artists and an incredible cast of performers. Guests are confronted with live, mind-boggling circus tricks carried out by a cast of outlandish performers.
cirquelesoir.com/dubai
THE ACT The Act arrived in 2013, bringing an A-list clientele to its Vaudevillethemed venue at Dubai’s Shangri-La Hotel. Diners here can expect the unexpected with shows from 40
comedians, classical musicians, dancers and contortionists.
theactdubai.com
2LIV Opened in 2013, this nightspot has taken the party scene by storm at Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa.
DID YOU KNOW...
WO R L D BES T
Dubai’s Zuma and La Petite Maison have been ranked among the world’s best restaurants. According to the well-respected San Pellegrino & Acqua Panna list, Zuma is ranked at number 87, while La Petite Maison is number 92. zumarestaurant.com lpm.ae
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spingalactic.com
PACHA IBIZA A unique show especially for the Dubai market, open through the week. The renowned club opened in Dubai at the end of 2014 bringing all the Balearic-island action to the dancefloor at Souk Madinat.
pacha.ae
MUSIC HALL Located in Zabeel Saray, this club features a variety of music styles ranging from Middle Eastern to Russian, from Rock to Gipsy fusion via French and American Pop, let alone Salsa, Indian, Russian and Persian.
themusichall.com
THE ACT
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GOURMET TRAILS We ask six local food bloggers for their restaurant recommendations around town. SAMANTHA WOOD
The creative talent behind foodiva.net
TALA SOUBRA
SARAH WALTON
Trace her food adventures at
The food explorer who writes
forkitoverdubai.com
thehedonista.com
SABAH WAHID
She tells us what’s hot in the world of gastronomy at culinarydelightsby
sabahwahid.blogspot.ae
KAREN MCLEAN
SHAIKHA AL ALI
The creative mind and sneaky chef behind secretsquirrelfood.com
The talented photographer and cook who writes whenshaikhacooks.com
ARABIAN INSPIRATION Foodiva recommends Khan Murjan describing it as ‘an Aladdin’s cave of Arabic restaurants’. This bustling courtyard serves cuisine from around the region – go for the Egyptian Koshari spiced rice. Price: around Dhs100 per person.
wafi.com
Culinary Delights recommends Qwaider Al Nabulsi for when you’re craving a traditional Jordanian or Palestinian dish: ‘Located in the heart of Deira, it’s a retro-looking eatery with flashing neon lights and plastic tables and chairs – exactly the kind of place that adds character to a city like Dubai’. Price: around Dhs70 for two. +971 4 227 7760
Hedonista describes Al Hadheerah as the ‘The epitome of Arabian dining. Eat on carpets on the sand at the magical Bab al Shams resort’. Tips include arriving hungry and bringing a pashmina, because the desert can get chilly at night. Price: around Dhs250 per person.
meydanhotels.com Fork It Over recommends Burj Al Hamam, describing it as ‘traditional Lebanese in an elegant setting’ and a great setting for a family dinner or an iftar feast. Price: around Dhs250.
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AL HADHEERAH
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GA S T R O N O M Y A N D N I G H T L I F E
BUSSOLA
TRAITEUR
AROUND THE WORLD Fork It Over describs Pai Thai as ‘a beautiful boat ride, romantic settings and flavours that will satisfy’. With stunning views, this venue is ideal for a romantic evening. Price: around Dhs600 per person.
ULTIMATE DINING Recommended by Culinary Delights, BBQ Delights is ‘set up with a permanent buffet’ offering Pakistani comfort food and reported to be ‘value-for-money dining at its very best’. Price: around Dhs140 for two.
Described as ‘the ultimate Japanese dining experience’ by Secret Squirrel, Okku offers classy nights out and intimate dinners. The Dynamite black cod maki comes highly recommended. Main courses are around Dhs105.
barbecuedelights.com
okku.com
that ‘you may as well be dining in the heart of Buenos Aires’. Known for raucous dinners, traditional Argentinean food and even a spot of tango, the grilled goat comes highly recommended. Price: around Dhs250–300 per person.
Hedonista recommends Bussola for
Hedonista recommends Pierchic
‘casual and chic Italian dining on the rooftop of the Westin’s flagship beach restaurant’. This may be one of the best Al Fresco spots in Dubai. Price: around Dhs120–200 per person.
as an ‘end-of-the-pier fine dining seafood restaurant with breathtaking views of the Burj al Arab and the candle-like wind towers of Madinat Jumeirah’. Price: around Dhs250 per person.
theaddress.com
bussoladubai.com
jumeirah.com
jumeirah.com Foodiva recommends Asado, claiming
BEST-KEPT SECRETS Culinary Delights describes Claypot’s South Asian cuisine as ‘great value for your money’ while the place’s ‘casual atmosphere lends itself to a mid-week meal’. Price: around Dhs190 for two people. citymaxhotels.com Hedonista recommends 101: ‘The prettiest bar in Dubai is hidden all the way at the end of the Jumeirah Palm
Crescent. Built entirely over water with marina views’. Price: around Dhs150–300 per person. thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.com Secret Squirrel suggests The Farm as an ideal place to ‘escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai’. Particularly for those seeking a bit of greenery. Price: around Dhs30–100 per person. thefarmdubai.com
An anniversary might be the perfect occasion for Traiteur’s ‘sophisticated French cuisine in the dream that is the Park Hyatt’ says Fork it Over. Price: around Dhs800 for two.
dubai.park.hyatt.com When Shaika Cooks describes Marrakech restaurant as having ‘truly reminded me of my trips to Morocco, with very appealing and well-made cuisine’. Price: around Dhs350 per person.
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Embracing the Arts Welcome to the cultural capital of the Middle East. A strong visual arts movement is sweeping the city. Think paint, print, contemporary, conventional, international and regional. A plethora of galleries has opened over the past few years, all promoting, encouraging and nurturing artistic talent. A similar revolution is happening on the big screen too. Each year Dubai plays host to many of the world’s top producers, directors, script writers and actors who arrive in the city for the highly anticipated Dubai International Film Festival 44
(DIFF). Other noteworthy festivals are the recently launched Middle East Film & Comic Con and Art Dubai. Furthermore, the literary scene is also burgeoning with the annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature attracting some of the world’s best-selling authors, commentators and literary critics. And on Dubai’s music stages, chart-topping artists of all musical genres are performing. The sheer number and diversity of acts, from
Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli to legendary guitarist Eric Clapton is a testament to Dubai’s cultural scene. Dubai also boasts a variety of buzzing lounges and nightspots that draw on the city’s local talent. The Irish Village and Music Room are casual live music venues, renowned for their great atmosphere, popularity and lively crowds drawn in by local bands. The city’s most notable theatre venues, Madinat Theatre, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre and Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (Ductac) host regular shows including musicals, ballets, operas, classical concerts and even pantomimes.
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Cu lt u r e : T h e A r t s
DUBAI ART SEASON What: Running from March to April
and organised by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the season includes Art Week, Middle East Film & Comic Con and Gulf Film Festival. Art Week also includes SIKKA Art Fair, Design Days Dubai and Art Dubai. Together these events support and showcase homegrown Emirati and Dubai-based artistic talent. Highlight: Each year, Art Dubai ushers in some of the world’s most influential galleries along with renowned artists. In the last edition 75 galleries from across 30 countries participated, showcasing the work of over 500 artists.
dubaiculture.ae
Dubai’s Art-mosphere
DUCTAC
Whether it’s art, films, books, music or theatre, Dubai leads the way when it comes to creativity. Here are a handful of highlights.
offers a full programme of theatre productions, gallery exhibitions, dance demonstrations and workshops. Highlight: Some of the city’s biggest theatre shows are played out here on the stage of the Centrepoint Theatre – an intimate, 500-seat two-tier theatre. Alongside Dubai’s annual Christmas panto, performances come from local groups and many international troupes. Ductac’s Gallery of Light promotes progressive and experimental art. And if you happen to be in Dubai long enough, then why not sign up for a course – pottery, dance, creative writing or even Arabic.
WORLD CLASSICAL MUSIC SERIES
MADINAT THEATRE
What: The World Classical Music
Series is responsible for bringing internationally-renowned musicians to the city. The series covers a range of composers and musicians from various countries. Hosted by the One&Only Royal Mirage, concerts are held monthly from September to May. Past concerts have seen stellar performances from Eduard Kunz, Arsha Kaviani and the Schubert Ensemble of London amongst others. Highlight: No two concerts are ever the same.
Souk Madinat, Madinat Theatre is Dubai’s first purpose-built theatre. Highlight: Resembling an ancient Arab citadel, the grand Madinat Theatre hosts some of the city’s best theatrical events. Past shows have included enthralling performances by Monty Python’s John Cleese; India’s finest comic actor Paresh Rawal; the Urban Circus acrobats; Moscow City Ballet; The Blues Brothers; Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson tribute bands.
dcc.ae
madinattheatre.com
What: Standing in the heart of
What: A community centre that
ductac.org
Secret Tip DID YOU KNOW... Christie’s Middle East (based in Dubai) sold one of the region’s most expensive paintings, Break of the Atom and Vegetal Life by celebrated Turkish-Jordanian artist Fahr El Nissa Zeid, for US$2.7 million (Dh9.9m).
Alserkal Avenue, a cul-de-sac of warehouse spaces in Al Quoz, is home to over 20 contemporary galleries, as well as purposebuilt exhibition spaces. alserkalavenue.ae
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DIFF
J+A GALLERY
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (DIFF)
LIVE THE ART LIFE
WHAT: In 2013 stars like Martin Sheen, Cate Blanchett, Irrfan Khan and
Besides being an internationally acclaimed art gallery in the Al Fahidi Historic District, the XVA Gallery is home to Dubai’s first ‘art hotel’. The chic XVA Hotel’s 10 homely rooms have been individually designed by Zayan Ghandour, Numa, Nada Debs & Karim Rashid (Gaia&Gino). Visitors may find XVA’s achitecture to be a work of art in itself. Three wind towers, two courtyards, arabesque flourishes, a brilliant café (Gordon Ramsay is reputed to be a big fan) along with resident artist Halim Al Karim’s magnificent sculptures have made this hotel a must-see.
Nimrat Kaur, walked the red carpet. The event saw a total of 174 features, including 70 world premieres and 11 international premieres from 57 countries in 43 languages from both established and upcoming talent. And for the 2014 festival Emily Blunt made the billboard. HIGHLIGHT: DIFF’s line-up of critically-acclaimed films is guaranteed to include a movie that appeals to everyone, whether a comedy, tragedy, documentary or horror and from a world-acclaimed producer to a filmmaker making their debut. Don’t miss the free screenings shown al fresco in Burj Park and along JBR’s The Walk during DIFF every December.
dubaifilmfest.com
EMIRATES AIRLINE FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE WHAT: Taking place each January, the festival brings together budding
writers, poets, journalists and book lovers. It has such wide appeal that over 30,000 visitors regularly attend the event to meet world famous authors, attend literary debates, listen to readings, participate in workshops and experience exciting fringe events. The five-day event is recognised as one of the leading international literary festivals in the world. The 2014 programme included, among others, best-selling authors Joanne Harris, Jojo Moyes and Marc Levy; crime and thriller writers Peter James and Simon Kernick. HIGHLIGHT: The workshop and masterclass programme is one of the most popular parts of the Festival: a chance to get practical advice from leading writers, illustrators and tutors in a wide range of subjects, as well as personal insights gained from the tutors’ own individual experience.
xvagallery.com
SECRET TIP If you are in the city during the Dubai Art Season (March – April), take a trip on the Art Bus, a shuttle that provides guided tours of the city’s prominent galleries and spaces. artbus@artinthecity.com
emirateslitfest.com
ART VIA METRO Take the Dubai Metro Red Line (Pg 102) to get to these three galleries: AMIC BANK
L CENTRE
DUBAI ISL
FINANCIA
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RIRA GALLERY
Good for: works by established and emerging Iranian artists. Get off at: Financial Centre. Info: Gate Village 3, DIFC +971 4 369 9339
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J+A GALLERY
Good for: 1920s Bauhaus pieces and industrial antique furniture. Get off at: Noor Islamic Bank. Info: Street 4a , Al Quoz 1 +971 4 338 9773
JLT
37 ARSH ART GALLERY
Good for: contemporary works from regional artists. Get off at: Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Info: Indigo Icon Tower, JLT +971 4 420 3471
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Discover the Secrets of Arabia
As a leading Destination Management Company in the Middle East, Desert Adventures Tourism, a part of the Kuoni Group, takes you on a journey to the most traditional, charming and modern places of the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Jordan, Qatar and the Kingdom of Bahrain. Specialising in high-end FITs, leisure groups as well as innovative tailor-made programmes and products, we aim to continually deliver personalised, reliable and high quality professional services every time. Desert Adventures Tourism , Al Barsha First Boutique Building, Al Barsha 1, P.O. Box 25488 Dubai, UAE Tel.: +971 4 450 4450 Fax: +971 4 450 4451 email: excursions@desertadventures.ae website: www.desertadventures.com Photo credit : Desert Winds Photography & Design
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FOLLOW THE ART TRAIL Where should you begin your journey of artistic discovery? Our art trail certainly isn’t a bad place to start.
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Set up in 2006 to nurture Syria’s dynamic contemporary art scene, Ayyam Gallery is regarded as one of the foremost exponents of Middle Eastern contemporary art. Ayyam is located in Al Quoz (Street 8). It is also part of Alserkal Avenue. ayyamgallery.com
2 The Archive stocks a range of art books on typography, calligraphy, fashion, design and art history. Activities include cultural workshops on topics like architecture and book-making, film screenings and talks from renowned artists. thearchivedubai. tumblr.com
3 Pro Art Gallery offers a selection of one-of-a-kind paintings, affordable limited edition prints, sculptures and photography from a wide range of artists. Pro Art is located at Palm Strip Mall, near Jumeirah Mosque. proartuae.com
4 Hunar is an important participant in the region’s biggest art fairs such as Art Dubai, Abu Dhabi Art and MENAS Art Fair Lebanon. Over the years it has presented more than 100 exhibitions of 150 renowned artists from around the globe. Find Hunar at DIFC, Gate Village 5. +971 4 286 2224
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Mawaheb is the Arabic word for ‘talented’. Crafted by adults with special needs, the creations at Mawaheb are an expression of their unique personalities and aspirations – something they might not be able to express through words. Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Mawaheb is sure to touch your heart. mawaheb-dubai.com
Nestled in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, The Majlis Gallery is the oldest art space in Dubai. Hosting numerous solo and group exhibitions, the gallery has been responsible for introducing many of the region’s finest artists. themajlisgallery.com
Refer to (Pg 102) for metro map
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Holding on to Heritage This young city is proud of its heritage and is determined to keep its Arabic roots intact. Discover the story for yourself. In a city that’s home to over 200 nationalities, Dubai has developed a culture that’s one of a kind. Global traditions, attitudes, customs, religions and lifestyles merge harmoniously and people come together to celebrate, irrespective of religion and ethnicity. Where else are the festivals of Eid, Christmas, Diwali, Thanksgiving, Chinese New Year and even Australia Day celebrated with equal enthusiasm? 50
At its core, Dubai will always be an Arabian city; where the sound of the Imam’s call to prayer echoes five times a day; where the skyline of twisting and billowing towers intermingles with the domes and minarets of majestic mosques; and where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices. Emiratis are justifiably proud of their heritage – it wasn’t too
long ago that this city was little more than a village beside the Creek. Today the Creek is of such historical significance that UNESCO is considering adding it to its list of World Heritage Sites. The city’s historic districts, museums and famous wind tower houses bear little resemblance to modern Dubai. But the sense of national pride remains palpable, and comes to the fore each year on 2 December when Dubai celebrates National Day – dating back to 1971 when the United Arab Emirates was formed. It’s a fascinating story of growth, determination and a rich, cultural belief.
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CU LT U RE: H ERI TAG E
ABRAS WHAT: Before roads and cars, abras
(small wooden boats) were the only way to cross the Dubai Creek. TELL ME MORE: The traditional abras are the most atmospheric way to soak in the sights and sounds of the bustling Creek. It doesn’t hurt that they’re the most convenient and cheapest way to cross the Creek too. ATTRACTIONS: Don’t miss the fabulous souks on both sides of the Creek. Trading in spices, textiles and gold, shopping here is great fun (Pg 28). AL FAHIDI HISTORIC DISTRICT
DUBAI MUSEUM WHAT: Discover Dubai’s story by
HISTORY LESSON With so many museums, mosques and heritage sites dotted across the city, the culture trail in Dubai is an elaborate one. Step into any of these spots to catch a glimpse of the past. AL FAHIDI HISTORIC DISTRICT WHAT: One of Dubai’s oldest heritage
SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING (SMCCU) WHAT: An initiative by HH Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to help expatriates and visitors understand the local culture, customs and religion. TELL ME MORE: Located in the Al Fahidi Historic District, SMCCU bridges the cultural gap between the local populace and visitors. With the motto: ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’, SMCCU’s well-informed and friendly Emirati hosts are happy to answer any and all questions. ATTRACTIONS: SMCCU offers a range of award-winning cultural programmes. Choose from Cultural Meals, Heritage Tours, Jumeirah Mosque Tour and Creekside Tour.
cultures.ae
cultures.ae
TIMELINE
sites and now the cradle of art and history. TELL ME MORE: In a small corner beside the Dubai Creek stands Al Fahidi, previously known as Bastakiya. Here, Dubai’s first immigrants built their grand coral-clad houses, renowned for their tall, majestic wind towers. ATTRACTIONS: The grand courtyard houses with vast cobbled courtyards, ornate wooden doors, intricately designed arches and, of course, the wind towers; Al Majlis Gallery, XVA Gallery, Hotel and Café; Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and Diwan Mosque.
1833: The Al Maktoum arm of the Bani Yas Tribe settles beside Dubai Creek.
1894: Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher becomes the ruler of Dubai. His policies make Dubai a successful commercial port.
visiting Al Fahidi Fort – home to the fascinating Dubai Museum. TELL ME MORE: Just a short walk from Al Fahidi, Dubai Museum gives a glimpse of life in Dubai long before the discovery of oil in the 1960s. Galleries recreate scenes from the Creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert life. ATTRACTIONS: Dioramas that depict the history of pearl diving – complete with a real dhow, sets of pearl merchants’ weights, scales and sieves.
+971 4 353 1862
SECRET TIP Visit the summer residence of the former ruler of Dubai, the late HH Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Majlis Ghorfat Um Al Sheif was built on a date palm plantation in 1955. The majlis is a two-storey coral and gypsum building including built-in air inlets, open terraces, storeroom and, of course, the quintessential Arabian majlis (meeting) room.
1920s: Pearling is at its peak and Gulf pearls are renowned as the finest in the world.
1930s: The pearling industry suffers a devastating blow from the Great Depression, but Dubai’s thriving port saves the emirate from economic breakdown.
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SECRET TIP
PEARL DIVING
SHEIKH SAEED’S HOUSE
JUMEIRAH MOSQUE
WHAT: The original home to the ruling
WHAT: Dubai’s most visited and
family of Dubai. TELL ME MORE: On the Shindagha side of Dubai Creek sits the home of the late Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai from 1912 to 1958. Constructed in 1896, this building was also the seat of the local government. This magnificent house is a classic example of domestic Arabian architecture and has now been converted into a museum. ATTRACTIONS: Don’t miss the remarkably preserved collection of photographs taken in Dubai in the 1940s and 1950s, as well as coins, stamps and documents dating from 1791.
picturesque mosque. TELL ME MORE: The majestic Jumeirah Mosque is built completely from white stone, with towering twin minarets framing a large central dome. After sunset the mosque is subtly lit, highlighting its intricate design. ATTRACTION: The SMCCU conducts Jumeirah Mosque tours every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am. No reservation is required. The fee is Dhs10 per person. TIP: Children must be at least five years old. All visitors must dress modestly while visiting the mosque. Shorts, short dresses or skirts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. You need to take off your shoes before entering the mosque. The tour lasts approximately an hour and a half; photography is allowed.
+971 4 393 7139
HERITAGE AND DIVING VILLAGES WHAT: A replica of a traditional
Bedouin village, the Heritage and Diving Villages illuminate Dubai’s history as a pearling village. TELL ME MORE: The Diving Village illustrates the city’s importance as a pearling nation while Heritage Village provides a platform for the emirate’s potters and weavers to display and sell their crafts. ATTRACTIONS: Nibble on traditional Arabic snacks, visit a traditional coffee house or ride a camel.
+971 4 393 7139 1950s: Work begins on the dredging of Dubai Creek.
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cultures.ae
AL FAROOQ OMAR BIN AL KHATTAB MOSQUE WHAT: The Al Farooq Mosque is the
largest in the city with the capacity to accommodate 2,000 worshippers. TELL ME MORE: Al Farooq draws inspiration from Turkey’s Blue Mosque. The blue and white interior is intricately decorated with Moroccan designs and verses from the Holy Qur’an. The mosque also
1961: Dubai finally gets mainstream
electricity - some 50 years after New York’s Time Square had been illuminated in multi-coloured lights! The Dubai Creek is dredged to allow for larger ships.
Experience the thrills of pearling firsthand at the Pavilion Dive Centre at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Equipped with nothing but the traditional garb of the ancient divers (a cotton shirt and baggy trousers) and a nose clip, participants board a dhow off the shores of Jebel Ali and set off to collect oysters from the shallow Gulf waters. +971 4 406 8828
JUMEIRAH MOSQUE
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has a library with more than 4,000 books on the Islamic faith. ATTRACTION: The Al Farooq Mosque is open to non-Muslims. Tours take place twice a day at 10.30am and 4.30pm. TIP: Dress code is same as that of Jumeirah Mosque. Additionally, clothing with pictures, drawings, slogans or symbols is not allowed. Taking pictures is not allowed here. Do book your tour online before you go.
alfarooqcentre.com
1965: Dubai opens its first asphalt
runway at Dubai International Airport.
1966: Dubai discovers oil, igniting a massive influx of foreign workers. From 1968–1975 the city’s population grew by over 300 per cent.
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CU LT U RE: H ERI TAG E
AL GHAFFAL DHOW RACE
FALCONRY
SPORTING HERITAGE Activities that were once key to survival now serve as thrilling sports that keep heritage alive. We look at the ‘then’ and ‘now’. AL GHAFFAL DHOW RACES THEN: Before the discovery of oil,
pearling was the mainstay of Dubai’s economy. From June to September, boats with between 15 and 60 men went to sea for up to four months, moving from one pearl oyster bed to another. Pearl fleets would historically stop off at the island of Sir Bu Nair on their long journeys home. The word ghaffal means ‘return’. NOW: Each May, scores of traditional dhows take to the waters of the Arabian Gulf between Sir Bu Nair Island and Mina Seyahi. First held in 1980, Al Ghaffal commemorates the pearl divers of the UAE. Today Al Ghaffal is an annual spectacle 1971: On 2 December 1971,
Dubai, together with Abu Dhabi Ajman, Fujairah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain, forms the United Arab Emirates. Port Rashid opens.
when over 100 ornate 60ft dhows race for more than 50 nautical miles along the coast.
CAMEL RACING THEN: Camels were an integral part of bedouin life, essential for survival in the desert. Relied on for transport, milk, meat and even their hides, camels were revered and much loved. NOW: The Marmoon Camel Fest is one of the most popular camel races, attracting racers from the farthest corners of the country. Robot jockeys steer the camels along the sand tracks, vying for first position, and there are prizes into the millions of dirhams for their owners.
1978: Dubai World Trade Centre opens. At 39 storeys it was the tallest building in the city and the first high-rise along the Sheikh Zayed Road.
THEN: The fastest birds on earth, bedouins used falcons for centuries, both for hunting and communication. NOW: Falconry is now regarded as the crowning jewel of the UAE’s heritage sports. Every January hundreds of falconers bring their prized birds to compete in the Fazza Championship for Falconry – a competition designed to revive and keep alive this exciting sport in the region. Falconry displays are also a mainstay of all desert safaris.
1979: Jebel Ali Port opens. With 67 berths and 134.68sq km, Jebel Ali is the world’s largest manmade harbour and the biggest port in the Middle East.
CAMEL RACING
1985: Emirates airline
begins operations. Jebel Ali Free Zone opens.
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RELIGIOUS FESTIVITIES
EID IN DUBAI
Islamic holidays and traditions are followed with flair and respect. Join in and appreciate these enlightening occasions.
Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha festivals. TELL ME MORE: The highlight of the Eid in Dubai fest is the ‘Dubai 24 Hours’ shopping initiative during which malls remain open for 24 hours. ATTRACTIONS: There are several concerts, plays and musicals as part of the celebrations. Past editions included performances by The Illusionists, Sesame Street Live, Sean Paul and Kelly Rowland, among others. Don’t miss the fireworks display that takes place at Dubai Creek every evening.
RAMADAN IN DUBAI WHAT: A month that acquaints
visitors with Islam’s holiest annual period, Ramadan. Dubai’s flair for celebration makes a visit during the holy month an enlightening experience. As well as a religious celebration, Ramadan is also a time when the culture and customs of the UAE are proudly displayed. Highlights include the Dubai International Holy Qur’an Award and the Ramadan Forum, where prominent speakers from around the Muslim world arrive in Dubai to spread awareness about Islam (presented in multiple languages).
RAMADAN
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW WHAT IS RAMADAN?
Ramadan is the most spiritual period for Muslims. It commemorates Allah’s revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Observing Ramadan is the fourth of the Five Pillars of Islam. WHEN IS RAMADAN?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar. In 2015, Ramadan is expected to commence on 18 June. It lasts for one month, so is expected to finish on 17 July. HOW IS IT OBSERVED?
The most important aspect of Ramadan is the fast that Muslims observe from
1999: The Burj Al Arab opens on a manmade island off Jumeirah Beach.
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WHAT: Celebrations that mark the
ATTRACTIONS: There’s no better time to sample authentic Arabian fare than during the lavish iftar buffets in Ramadan. Every eatery - from street vendors to the fine-dining restaurants – serve the best of Arabic and international cuisine. Don’t miss the Ramadan Night Market held during the last 10 days at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
almultaqa.ae ramadannightmarket.com
eidindubai.ae
DID YOU KNOW... Iftar is the evening meal Muslims take when breaking their fast at sunset during Ramadan. Suhoor is taken by Muslims before the start of the fast. It is eaten before dawn.
dawn to dusk. It is also a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship. Observers are also required to avoid bad language, refrain from smoking, envy, gossip, sinful thoughts and actions during this time. This is also the month of mercy, when noble intentions and good deeds bring great reward. As such, many Muslims undertake charitable work and attempt to read the whole of the Holy Qur’an. HOW CAN OTHERS LEARN FROM THIS TIME?
Ramadan has a lesson for all humanity. Self-restraint is the essence of this holy time and with it come realisations
and gratitude for the things we may otherwise take for granted. In this month the entire community comes together in an effort to become better human beings. Whether it is the rich helping the poor or general abstinence from bad behaviour, the world becomes a better place. DOES EVERYONE HAVE TO FAST?
Non-Muslims and those who are physically vulnerable are exempt from fasting. HOW DOES RAMADAN AFFECT TOURISTS?
The city does not close down during Ramadan. In fact, this is an ideal time to learn more about the Emirati culture. Business hours are shorter.
2006: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum becomes the Ruler of Dubai and the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. In the same year, the first residents move onto the manmade archipelago of Palm Jumeirah.
Dancing and playing music in public is forbidden during the holy month. Restaurants and cafes across the city and in the shopping malls remain closed or are screened off out of respect for those who are fasting. Furthermore, eating, drinking and smoking openly in public is prohibited by law. Tourists are advised to dress modestly in public. HOW CAN TOURISTS JOIN IN?
In the true spirit of Ramadan, everyone is welcome. The SMCCU (Pg 57) iftar is a must for those seeking culture. You’ll find that the hotels and restaurants pull out all the stops for iftar.
2009: Dubai International Airport expands operations with the opening of Terminal 3. Dubai Metro takes to the tracks on 9 September. Guinness World Records declares it the world’s longest fully-automated metro network.
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CU LT U RE: H ERI TAG E
IN A CITY IN WHICH SO MANY EXPATS
CULTURAL ETIQUETTE
LIVE, HOW ARE EMIRATIS PRESERVING THEIR CULTURE?
Nassif Kayed, Director General of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) talks about the do’s and don’ts in Dubai. HOW SHOULD I DRESS IN DUBAI? DO WOMEN HAVE TO WEAR A HEADSCARF?
I would recommend a modest dress code for Dubai. For public places like malls, restaurants and parks, clothing should not be revealing or see-through. Swimwear is permitted only at the beach and pools of resorts and hotels. Some resorts have their own dress codes, which patrons are required to follow. Women do not have to wear a headscarf unless they are visiting a mosque. CAN WOMEN TRAVEL ALONE AROUND THE CITY?
Absolutely. Dubai is the safest city for ladies. Travelling alone is not an issue. DO RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS IN DUBAI SERVE ALCOHOL AND PORK?
Not all restaurants serve alcohol and pork. Only restaurants attached to hotels and resorts with a licence serve alcohol. Some of Dubai’s upscale restaurants (such as those at DIFC) are also licensed to serve alcohol. Please bear in mind that there is zero tolerance for drunken driving and inappropriate behaviour while under the influence of alcohol. CAN I ENTER THE MOSQUES IN DUBAI?
Yes, but only by following the proper etiquette. Shoulder and knee-baring outfits are not permitted. Ladies must wear a headscarf. SMCCU conducts daily talks and tours at the Jumeirah Mosque. WHY DO EMIRATI WOMEN WEAR BLACK AND MEN WHITE?
The Emirati dress code has evolved from history to fashion. Historically, 2010: The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower at 828m, opens.
women wore the black robe to cover themselves and their beautiful clothes from getting dirty or fading and as a symbol of modesty while the men wore white all-year-round. Since the colours never change, there is no distinction between rich and poor. IS IT OKAY TO TAKE PICTURES OF EMIRATI MEN OR WOMEN?
Taking pictures of anyone without their consent is impolite. Usually, men do not mind. For women, you must ask their permission.
The Emiratis are taking active steps to preserve their culture and this is seen in their language (Arabic is the official language of the UAE); and in the national dress (despite the influences of modern fashion Emiratis still choose to wear the traditional kandoora and abaya). There are also over a dozen museums and heritage sites. WHY DO WE SEE MORE MEN IN THE MOSQUES AND NOT WOMEN?
In Islam, it is compulsory for men to pray in the mosque. Muslim women are not obliged to pray in the mosque. HOW CAN TOURISTS INTERACT WITH EMIRATIS?
WHAT IS THE ACCEPTED FORM OF GREETING? CAN I SHAKE HANDS WITH THE OPPOSITE SEX?
There are many opportunities for
Local women will usually not offer their hand to a man and will nod and smile instead and some local men prefer not to shake hands with foreign women. If in doubt, wait until a hand is offered when meeting someone for the first time.
great way to get in touch with the local people and gain first-hand information about their customs and culture. IS IT COMPULSORY TO KNOW ARABIC TO VISIT DUBAI?
No, English and many other However, a few words of basic Arabic would be nice to learn.
No, it is not closely watched. However, websites that do not meet the UAE Code of Conduct and decency (especially sexually explicit sites) are banned. DUBAI IS IN THE MIDDLE EAST. IS IT SAFE TO HOLIDAY THERE?
The UAE enjoys an extremely low crime rate and has a politically stable environment making it one of the safest places in the Middle East. Aon Hewitt, the global human resource company, ranks Dubai as one of the top 20 safest cities in the world.
Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central, opens. Dubai wins the bid as host city for the World Expo 2020.
The cultural talk at the SMCCU is a
languages are widely spoken.
IS IT TRUE THAT INTERNET ACCESS IS CLOSELY WATCHED BY THE GOVERNMENT AND SEVERAL SOCIAL SITES ARE BANNED?
2013: Dubai’s second airport,
tourists to interact with Emiratis.
USEFUL ARABIC PHRASES Hello How are you? Good morning Good evening Goodbye Thank you Yes No How much? What is your name? My name is... Where is...?
Marhaba Kaeef halak Sabah el khair Massa el khair Ma’a as-salama Shukran Na’am La Kam ath-thaman Ma ismak Ismii... Ayna
2014: HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, launches his #MyDubai initiative which attracts over 1.7million posts on instagram in the first 10 months.
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The adventure starts here With a variety of adrenaline-fuelled activities on offer, a new outdoor adventure awaits at every turn. Blessed with a cloudless sky, a vast desert, rugged mountains, the glorious waters of the Arabian Gulf and championship sporting facilities, Dubai is the perfect place for new adventures. Whether you want to jump out of a plane with Skydive Dubai, ski down a snowy mountain at Ski Dubai, speed around a racetrack in an Audi R8 V10 at the Dubai Autodrome, play polo (on horseback or camel hump); tee off on a floodlit golf course at midnight or enjoy the view from a hot air balloon – Dubai is the place for you. A variety of sporting championships have taken place in Dubai, 58
and the same facilities used for these events are open to the public. Should you feel like practicing your forehand, you might want to use the same courts on which Djokovic and Federer competed at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. If diving and swimming suit you better, you might like to follow Tom Daley’s example at the Fina World Diving Championships and take the plunge in Dubai. Of course Dubai simply wouldn’t be Dubai without a few world class golf courses, and the footsteps of many a professional golfer can be followed on the very fairways
where world championships have been won. The desert provides ample opportunity for adventure too. Leave the tarmac behind, get strapped into a four-by-four, and be prepared for the ride of a lifetime as you’re taken ‘dune bashing’. See if you can keep count of the shooting stars as you sleep under the canopy of stars and be sure to wake up for nature’s first show of the day – sunrise; when the desert is bathed in remarkable colours, turning from yellow to orange and gold. Although you might decide that this is a sight best experienced from the basket of a hot air balloon gliding on the morning breeze a few hundred feet up. Though it’s a pulsating city, Dubai also offers ample opportunity to ‘get away from it all’ and reconnect with nature.
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O U T D O O R A C T I V I T I ES
GET AWAY FROM IT ALL With such a wide array of activities on offer, the biggest dilemma facing visitors is choosing what to do. Here are just a few ideas. SEAWINGS
CYCLING
WHAT: The waters of the Arabian Gulf
WHAT: For those who enjoy travelling
become your runway, as you lift off to get a bird’s-eye view of Dubai from a luxury seaplane. TELL ME MORE: Flying in a seaplane is a memorable experience, and, with its iconic skyline, Dubai has to be one of the best places in the world to do it. The flight offers breathtaking views of Palm Jumeirah, the pinnacle of the Burj Khalifa and the dazzling skyline of twisting skyscrapers, mosques, hotels and beaches. Seawings is Dubai’s only seaplane operator and offers a variety of packages, taking off from either the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club or Jebel Ali Golf Resort. Flights last approximately 40 minutes.
on two wheels, Dubai is well on track. Dubai’s cycling scene has gathered serious momentum. In 2013 alone, more than 104km of additional cycle paths were completed across the city, meaning that cyclists can now pedal through parks, beside the beach and even into the desert between the dunes. Most parks and beaches have dedicated cycling tracks. Dubai also hosts a variety of cycling events such as the Dubai Tour and Spinneys Dubai ’92 Cycle Challenge. Organized rides and cycling events also regularly take place at The Dubai Autodrome where Revolution Cycle Nights are hosted every Wednesday from 6pm.
seawings.ae
cyclesafedubai.com
TELL ME MORE: Over the past few years
DUNE BASHING WHAT: Conquer the shifting sands
of the Arabian desert in powerful four-by-fours as they leap over ridges and charge over the dunes at hairraising angles. TELL ME MORE: The desert isn’t just for camels - with a four-by-four it becomes a nail-biting roller-coaster track, making your stomach lurch at the intense speed and sharp turns. Dune bashing is a thrilling but skilled activity and best left to expert desert drivers. There are numerous tour operators ready at the wheel to take you off-road.
YOGA ON THE BEACH WHAT: Find inner calm – outdoors TELL ME MORE: Head out to the beach to tune in with Mother Nature. Ignite Fitness at Riva Beach Club, Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah and The Beach development at JBR offer rejuvenating beachside yoga sessions. ignite-wellness.com jumeirah.com meraas.com W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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SKY DIVING
HELI DUBAI
WHAT: Hurl yourself from a plane
WHAT: Hop on board a luxury heli-
at 13,000ft.
copter and come face to face with some of the biggest and boldest sights Dubai has to offer. TELL ME MORE: Travel in style, hovering above the city by helicopter. The rides may last less than 30 minutes, but both the experience and sights are unparalleled. HeliDubai, operating from Dubai Festival City, offers a variety of scenic aerial tours including a night tour.
TELL ME MORE: Skydiving – possibly
the most iconic and exhilarating of extreme sports. Imagine the stunning views of the magnificent Palm Jumeirah, The World Islands and Dubai Marina as you hurtle toward the earth and then float to the ground. Dubai is one of the top ‘drop zones’ in the world and ever since Skydive Dubai – a venture of the Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, a huge skydiving enthusiast – opened shop here, the sport has become wildly popular. Divers jump tandem with one of Skydive Dubai’s highly-experienced instructors. There’s also a cameraman to capture your nerves and excitement on film. The freefall lasts around a minute before your instructor pops the ‘chute’ and you begin a leisurely fiveminute descent. For desert views, head to the Skydive Dubai Desert Campus located about 35km out of town.
SECRET TIP An Arabian twist on the traditional Sport of Kings, camel polo is a memorable and entertaining experience. It’s perfect for a fun-packed day out with friends, family or for taking on colleagues in an exhilarating teambuilding activity. Gulf Ventures offers guests a chance to play camel polo from October to April. No previous riding experience is required. gulfventures.com
helidubai.com
skydivedubai.ae
HOT AIR BALLOONING WHAT: Take a trip in a hot air balloon
and soar above Dubai’s vast expanse of desert. TELL ME MORE: Even though you have to wake up well before sunrise, the trip is worth the effort. There are few sights on earth like the desert at dawn. As the sun rises in a cloudless sky, the sand apears to glow, losing its cool from the night air. Occasionally the silence of the desert is broken by camel caravans or gazelles and oryx darting between the dunes. The best-known hot air balloon company is Balloon Adventures Emirates. The actual flight is approximately one hour. Weather permitting, flights take place every day from the middle of September until the end of May.
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O U T D O O R A C T I V I T I ES
MUSHRIF PARK
With its vast woodlands and sand plains, Mushrif is Dubai’s natural sanctuary. Camel rides, wooden jungle gym, fairground rides, a theatre, picnic areas and a swimming pool ensure that time here is well spent. GET THERE: Rashidiya on Dubai Metro’s Red Line is the closest to Mushrif Park. Hire a cab for the onward journey. Fare approximately Dhs20. ENTRANCE: Dhs5.
PARK LIFE
ZABEEL PARK
Among the mega malls and shiny skyscrapers, Dubai has an abundance of green spaces to discover. The thought of rolling out a picnic blanket in place of a beach towel is often overlooked when holiday-makers land in Dubai. From cable cars to camel rides, the city’s parks are waiting for you.
CREEK PARK Apart from its lush lawns, playgounds and beautiful views over Dubai Creek, Creek Park is famous for its family-friendly venues like the Dubai Dolphinarium, Children’s City and cable car rides. The park is also a popular hangout for bird watchers. GET THERE: Healthcare City on Dubai Metro’s Green Line is the closest to the park. Hire a cab for the remaining distance. Fare approximately Dhs10. ENTRANCE: Dhs5; separate charges apply for the attractions inside.
SAFA PARK Safa Park might be one of Dubai’s oldest parks, opening in 1975, but these days it’s a popular spot for the city’s creative crowd thanks to the opening of artist café The Archive. Aside from this cool café, Safa sits on 64 hectares of land, 80 per cent of which is completely green. Think manicured lawns, water features, barbecue stations and plenty of picnic spots. If you’re feeling active, you can always hire a bicycle, go to the amusement park, take a tour on the tourist train, go for a leisurely row in the boating lake, play on the basketball courts or tennis facilities and even go for a jog on the purpose-laid running track just outside the park walls. GET THERE: Hire a cab. ENTRANCE: Dhs3.
This technology-themed park is located close to the Creek on Sheikh Zayed Road. With over 51 hectares of sprawling land, this park has a wide variety of activities. Features on site include a boating lake, skate park, adventure play area, cricket pitch, jogging track, café, cinema, amphitheatre and free WiFi access. GET THERE: Al Jafiliya on Dubai Metro’s Red Line is closest to Zabeel Park followed by a short walk to the park, or hire a cab for the onward journey. Fare approximately Dhs13. ENTRANCE: Dhs5.
DID YOU KNOW... Mushrif Park is one of Dubai’s best bird-watching spots? As of April 2014, 102 avian species had been recorded there.
HORSE RIDING
POLO
WHAT: Gallop across the desert on the back of a thorough-
WHAT: They call it the Sport of Kings – but in Dubai it’s
bred Arabian stallion. TELL ME MORE: Host to Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest horserace, Dubai is a great place for horse lovers. There are plenty of opportunities for those wanting to get in the saddle too. Simply head to any of the equestrian centres – such as Emirates Equestrian Centre or Club Joumana at the Jebel Ali Equestrian Club. The Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre or Al Jiyad Stables are just two liveries that offer this remarkable desert experience.
jaresortshotels.com aljiyad.com emiratesequestriancentre.com
open to everyone. TELL ME MORE: Polo is a skillful, energetic and thrilling
game to watch and play. It’s loved by royalty and socialites across the globe. The polo season runs from October to May and regular adrenaline-fuelled games are played out on the lush green fields of the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club at Arabian Ranches and at the Dubai Polo Club at Desert Palm. If you fancy testing your own abilities, or learning it for the first time, simply sign up for a lesson – available for all skill levels.
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Live the beach life Throngs of people head to the white, sandy beaches each day for sports, swimming, picnicking or sunbathing. Each year more than 11 million visitors come to the beaches of Dubai, and that’s not to mention the residents of the emirate itself comprising over 200 nationalities. The beaches are Dubai’s playgrounds: games of beach volleyball are won and lost, sandcastles are built, bodies are tanned, picnics are eaten and a whole host of thrilling watersports are played. 62
Families flock here over the weekends, safe in the knowledge that the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf have gentle currents and thanks to a slowly graduating seabed, the waters alongside the shore tend to be relatively shallow. At low tide you can easily walk up to 100m out to sea and still only be ankle deep – perfect for paddling, collecting shells and crab hunting.
Many of the beaches are attached to beachside resorts – allowing guests to enjoy the sands while lazing on cushioned loungers and being served by waiters in crisp uniforms. If you’re not staying at one of these hotels, don’t despair. Simply treat yourself to a day’s membership, which most resorts are happy to provide. Apart from the hotel beach clubs, there are also long stretches of beach that are open to all along the Dubai coast from Jebel Ali to the outskirts of the neighbouring Sharjah. Many watersport operators have set up shop on the sands, ensuring that your life on the beach can be whatever you want it to be.
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B E A C H ES & M A R I N E
BEACH WATCH Dubai’s beaches are renowned for their gentle waves and soft sands. Slather on the sunscreen, grab your shades and head down to your favourite public beach.
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1 The Walk at JBR This beach has the benefit of being fringed by a promenade of restaurants, boutiques, markets, The Beach Mall and even an outdoor cinema.
Black Palace Beach The remoteness of the beach is part of its appeal. Although no facilities exist here, this spot is a real escape.
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3 Sunset Beach This beach is the best launch pad for some stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking around the island that the majestic Burj Al Arab stands on.
DID YOU KNOW... Jumeirah Beach Park is closed from December 2014 to make way for the new Dubai Canal Project (Pg 93). It will reopen at the end of 2016 on the promise of even better facilities.
4 Kite Beach While this beach is hugely popular with kitesurfers (the name says it all) it’s also popular with soccer and volleyball players and kayakers.
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Jumeirah Open Beach Dubai’s oldest and most beloved beach, Jumeirah has been attracting bathers for years. The open beach has its own 1.8km running track, showers, and refreshments.
Al Mamzar Beach Park Like Jumeirah Beach Park, Mamzar is both a beach and a green park. Recently it was awarded blue flag beach status, making it one of the most coveted venues in the emirate. All its five beaches (in coves) around the coast of the park have sheltered areas complete with changing rooms and showers. The park also lets you rent chalets on a daily basis. Remember, Mondays are reserved for ladies only.
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SECRET TIP Watercooled, the five-star watersports centre at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa, offers a plethora of activities including surfing, sailing, kayaking and high-adrenaline rides on its Zapcats. watercooleddubai.com
NEW!
KITESURFING
BEACH ADVENTURES Sail, snorkel, surf, swim or just lie back and get a tan – there is so much to do at a Dubai beach. KITESURFING Play, jump, somersault and perform wizardry with the wind. Those looking to experience the thrill first hand will find schools located on some of Dubai’s public beaches or in hotel resort watersports centres. Here you can hire equipment as well as learn the sport from qualified teachers. December to April is the perfect time for kitesurfing, when the winds flowing in from across the Gulf are at their strongest.
DHOW CRUISING Cutting through the warm waters of the Gulf in these remarkable vessels evokes the romance of a bygone era. Today guests can sit back and enjoy the views, with stops for swimming, scuba diving, fishing and banana boat rides. Guests can choose from half or full-day cruises.
DEEP-SEA FISHING The warm, shallow waters off Dubai are teeming with life. Barracuda, snapper, kingfish, grouper, long-tail tuna, giant mackerel, trevally and so many more. Board a sleek fishing boat that will zoom you past the magnificent Dubai skyline and iconic World Islands into deeper waters offshore. There are numerous companies in Dubai that provide deep-sea fishing excursions.
STANDUP PADDLEBOARDING (SUP) There are lots of watersport operators ready to teach you the art of SUP and rent you a board. The calm, clean and warm waters of the Gulf make it the perfect place to enjoy this fitness craze.
SAILING Dubai is the perfect sailing destination. Several hotels and watersport centres offer a variety of sailing equipment, including dinghies and keelboats, at reasonable prices. Lessons and courses are offered or join a flotilla for the day and go off exploring. 64
JUMEIRAH CORNICHE
An eagerly-awaited beach development, the extension of the picturesque Jumeirah Corniche is now complete. The 14km corniche, which extends from the Dubai Marine Beach Resort all the way to the Burj Al Arab, runs alongside Jumeirah Beach and is the longest of its kind in Dubai. The walkway and jogging track have already become a huge hit with fitness enthusiasts who love its winning combination of scenic views, unique landscaping and eco-friendly flooring. NEW!
ARABIAN WATERPARK
From JBR beach, look out to sea and you’ll be greeted by the sight of a giant inflatable playground. Moored 20m out to sea in front of The Beach mall, the Arabian Waterpark is the biggest of its kind anywhere in the world. It comprises two trampolines, two giant climbing walls, several slides, a rope swing and countless other obstacles - all of which end with a slip and splash.
arabianwaterparks.com
DID YOU KNOW... You can scuba dive in The Dubai Mall? Take a dip into the world’s largest suspended tank at the colossal Dubai Mall. Home to over 33,000 aquatic animals including the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world – this is a diving experience like no other (even for non-swimmers).
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Tee Time Dubai is a thriving destination for golf, boasting some of the world’s most prestigious tournaments and greens. With a series of accolades to its name, Dubai has become a world-renowned golfing destination. In early 2014, Dubai Golf, operator of the iconic Emirates Golf Club and the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, was named Golf Tourism Supplier of the Year at the prestigious International Association of Golf Tour Operator (IAGTO) Awards in Spain. In another first for the city, Dubai plays host to the Asian Tour’s final event of 2014 in December. The championship has been named The Dubai Open. 68
In 2012, the emirate was named as the Golf Destination of the Year in Africa, the Indian Ocean and Gulf States by IAGTO. Many of Dubai’s greens have also received individual awards for best service, club, hole, academy instructor, academy and many more categories, reaffirming Dubai’s position as an outstanding golfing destination. Home to 11 outstanding golf courses and two of the European Tour’s most prestigious tournaments, not to mention a host of other significant events, Dubai is a golfing success
story that resonates the world over. It’s the ultimate blank-canvas project, where the world’s brightest design talents and most ambitious developers have come together to produce an exciting, eclectic destination that ticks every conceivable box for the discerning golfer. It all began in 1988, when the Majlis at Emirates Golf Club became the first ever grass course in the Middle East. Nobody could have predicted at that point that in 2014 Dubai would celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, a tournament that is emblematic of Dubai’s stature as a premier golf destination. The Majlis course sowed the seeds of a golfing empire and now the city has trophy courses that are talked about the world over.
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GOLF
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
GOLF COURSES IN DUBAI
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB
Relatively new to Dubai’s golfing scene, The Track, which replaced the old course at Nad Al Sheba, was designed by Peter Harradine and operated by Troon Golf. It reflects the core model of Troon’s US operation: namely daily-fee play. There are no members here, just tee times that are filled by anyone who wants to play. In just over a year of operation, The Track has already made a huge impact. Fully floodlit, allowing play well into the evening, it has established itself as a firm favourite for golfers who enjoy a game at night.
Designed by Australian legend Greg Norman, Jumeirah Golf Estates boasts two remarkable and strikingly different courses: Fire and Earth. Earth is renowned as the host venue for the European Tour’s flagship finale – DP World Tour Championship. Framed by a carpet of reddish woodchip, Mackenzie-style white sand bunkers pop up against the undulating Bermuda grass playing surfaces, making Earth unlike any other course in the Middle East. Fire features a rustic, unkempt look characterized by wispy dropseed grasses and sprawling, jagged bunkering with trademark sand.
Home to the first grass course in the whole of the Middle East and most importantly, the host of the annual Omega Dubai Desert Classic held every January, which celebrated its 25th year in 2014. With three courses, including the international championship Majlis course, the beautiful Faldo Course and a floodlit par three course, Emirates Golf Club is the king among golf clubs in the region. Its status as the region’s number one course is endorsed every year by some of the world’s best golfers, at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. Emirates Golf Club also offers an extensive sports club and numerous dining options including the award-winning French restaurant Le Classique, the more casual M’s restaurant and Spike Bar – the heart and soul of the clubhouse.
meydangolf.com
jumeirahgolfestates.com
dubaigolf.com
The term ‘championship’ course is often overused, but nowhere is it more apt than in Dubai. Below are some of its best golf courses. THE TRACK AT MEYDAN GOLF
JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES
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BAE
JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT There is a wonderful sense of seclusion here, with the rich variety of trees, shrubs, strutting peacocks and chorus of songbirds creating the impression of an exotic secret garden. Golfing greats like Seve Ballesteros, Colin Montgomerie, Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and Mark O’Meara have all gone head-to-head here.
jaresortshotels.com
AL BADIA GOLF CLUB BY INTERCONTINENTAL
DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB
DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB A thriving community of members and a stunning clubhouse have brought global fame to Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. But above all else, this enchanting course, situated on the historic
Dubai Creek, is known for its brilliant finishing stretch. With its proximity to the bustling Dubai Creek that separates old Dubai from the new, this Thomas Bjorndesigned course is high on the list for every golfer who visits the UAE.
dubaigolf.com
THE ELS CLUB
THE ELS CLUB
Often considered among the best greens in the UAE, The Els Club provides a thorough test of a player’s putting abilities, which is precisely how South African great Ernie Els wanted it. A spacious and accommodating layout from tee to green, which Els describes as a ‘desert links style’, is well known for its distinctive bunkering. It is highly regarded for having the best coaching academy in town, the Butch Harmon School of Golf, and a fantastic clubhouse.
elsclubdubai.com
DID YOU KNOW... Tickets to watch the DP World Tour Championships are free to pre-registered guests! tickets.europeantour.com
Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones II, Al Badia opened in 2005. Its third hole has been rated by Golf Digest magazine as ‘the most challenging par three in the UAE’. Having staged a MENA Tour event every year since 2011, it was awarded host venue for the 2014 Grand Final of the European Challenge Tour.
albadiagolfclub.ae
THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE It’s hard not to be impressed by the Address Montgomerie Dubai. Bearing the name of Scottish European Tour great Colin Montgomerie, the course opened in 2002 and harbours 49 lakes and 81 large bunkers. Set in the heart of Emirates Hills, the club has the busiest driving range and several popular reataurants and lounges.
themontgomerie.com
ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB Designed by former Open Champion Ian Baker-Finch in association with Jack Nicklaus Design, Arabian Ranches celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2014. Spanning 247 acres, of which 120 acres are irrigated, the course is a par 72. The course is an exciting combination of grass fairways and sandy stretches complete with indigenous shrubs and bushes.
arabianranchesgolfdubai.com 70
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THE ULTIMATE DESERT EXPERIENCE
10 YEARS OF FLYING HIGH
BIRDS EYE VIEW OF THE DESERT
BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES Explore a different Dubai and join us on a magic carpet ride rising up to 4000ft. to meet the sun and climbing down to follow the uninterrupted dunes only 30 min drive away from Burj Khalifa.
EXPERIENCE THE SUNRISE AT 4000FT.
Chance to see the wildlife of Dubai with roaming gazelles and oryxes and spend an unforgetful morning with some of the worlds most experienced pilots taking you on a ride of a lifetime. For bookings and information visit: WWW.BALLOONING.AE or contact info@ballooning.ae or +971 (0)4285 4949
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Make an Event of it With a calendar encompassing arts and sport, food and books, music and lights, heritage and fashion, the city has become THE events capital in the region. Whatever entertains you, Dubai will probably have an event featuring it. Feel the sand between your toes on Nasimi Beach as some of the world’s biggest chart-topping acts perform at Sandance; join the party at the Dubai Rugby Sevens; don your top hat for the lavish Dubai World Cup horse race and meet your favourite author at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. The city’s events are of such a calibre that they consistently attract the world’s best. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy regularly appear at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament; Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Murray and the Williams sisters are no strangers to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, 72
and the Dubai International Cricket Stadium hosted the Indian Premier League during its 2014 season. Dubai is becoming an increasingly popular stop for A-list musicians and performers on their world tours. Bruno Mars, Eric Clapton, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, The Killers and Alicia Keys are just a handful of acts to have played here recently, not to mention the dozens of Bollywood and Arabic superstars for whom the emirate is a second home. As the regional hub for art, gastronomy, literature and film, the city has set its sights on becoming the global events destination. In 2014 the Dubai Food Festival and Dubai Tour were launched. While
the gastronomic extravaganza saw participation from global celebrity chefs, the Dubai Tour attracted the world’s top cycling professionals to race on the roads of Dubai. Several weekend music festivals were launched too, including Classics, Blended and Redfest DXB. Of course, in Dubai you are more than a spectator. Take for instance, the Dubai Marathon where over 22,000 runners pound the streets; or the Spinney’s Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge where 2,000 amateur cyclists peddle around Dubai’s iconic landmarks. Ingrained in Dubai’s events diary is the Dubai Shopping Festival which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2015. Dubai also has events that capture the true spirit and culture of the Emirates. Prime examples of this are the Al Gaffal Traditional Dhow Sailing Race and the Eid in Dubai festivals. The word ‘eventful’ certainly takes on new meaning in Dubai. Don’t miss the show!
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E V EN T S
EMIRATES AIRLINE DUBAI RUGBY 7EVENS
EMIRATES AIRLINE DUBAI JAZZ FESTIVAL
DUBAI WORLD CUP
DUBAI WORLD CUP
Attracting world-class, international artists and a host of up-and-coming talents, the Dubai Jazz Festival is a firm favourite on the city’s social calendar, pulling in around 55,000 music fans each year. The annual nine-day festival embraces music from across the genres – from jazz (of course) to classic rock, indie rock, pop and urban. James Blunt and Christina Perri are performing at the 2015 Jazz Festival from 25-27 February, while in 2014, headline acts included performances by Jamie Cullum, Olly Murs, The Wanted and global music icon, Santana. Apart from two weekends jam-packed with al fresco gigs, the week in between sees a line-up of sessions in the OSN Jazz Garden, when bands play under the stars.
Each March, the world’s best thoroughbred horses have thundered down the track of Meydan’s racecourse in pursuit of the biggest prize on the horseracing circuit. The Dubai World Cup is the culmination of the racing season and is the last race on the final day of the event. The Dubai World Cup race day features three of the most valuable contests in the world of racing: the US$5 million Dubai Sheema Classic, the US$5 million Dubai Duty Free race and the famed US$10 million Dubai World Cup race, sponsored by Emirates Airlines. But Dubai’s World Cup is not just about the horses – it’s about the dressing up, the fizz and the party. Launched in 1996, this thoroughbred horserace shifted to the luxurious Meydan Racecourse in 2010 and is the most glamorous social event of the year.
dubaijazzfest.com
dubaiworldcup.com
EMIRATES AIRLINE DUBAI RUGBY 7EVENS Every November around 120,000 rugby fans stream through the gates of the Sevens Stadium to join the action – on and off the pitch. The tournament is the second round of the nine-leg HSBC Sevens World Series and the opening round of the IRB Women’s Sevens World Series. Furthermore, it includes the Invitation Tournament, which features over 200 international teams including local teams, veterans, women and youth. For three compelling days, all seven pitches at the stadium host non-stop sporting action.
dubairugby7s.com
DID YOU KNOW... The Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival 2015 is returning to its old home at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.
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2 01 5 JANUARY • • • • • • • • • • • •
Dubai Shopping Festival Meydan Race Nights Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon Omega Dubai Desert Classic Dubai Showjumping Championship Mamma Mia Dubai International ite Festival Arijit Singh Al Nasser Theatre Festival Hankook 2 H Dubai 10th Edition Bengali Film Festival A Midsummer Night’s Dream
#DubaiEvents dubai cal end ar. co m
FEBRUARY
MARCH
• • • • • • • • • • •
• Dubai International Boat Show • Emirates Airline Festival of Literature • Gulf Photo Plus • Taste of Dubai • Dubai Polo Gold Cup Championship • SI A • Design Days Dubai • Art Dubai • Dubai World Cup • Music Concert • Michael Buble • Dubai Festival of Lights by Emaar
Dubai Food Festival Gulfood Dubai Food Carnival RedFest DXB Chinese New Year Emirates Airline Dubai Ja Festival Between the Lines Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships Dubai Tour Dubai Polo Silver Cup Dubai Classics
APRIL • Middle East Film and Comic Con • Dubai International Garden Competition • Al Marmoom Heritage Festival • Gulf Film Festival • Beach Polo Cup • Fashion Forward S5 • Dubai Dressage Championship • One Direction On The Road Again Tour • GITEX Shopper Spring Edition
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JUNE
• • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • •
Blended Arabian Travel Market Airport Show Arab Media Forum Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters Al Gaffal Dubai Tango Festival Beautyworld Middle East Criss Angel
ME Sports Event Summit Dubai Desert Road Run Modhesh World Ramadan in Dubai Ramadan Majlis Disney on Ice FINA Men’s Water Polo World League Super Final
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E V EN T S
JULY
AUGUST
• • • • • • • •
• • • • •
Ramadan in Dubai Ramadan Majlis Ramadan Night Market Eid in Dubai (Eid Al Fitr) Modhesh World Dubai Summer Surprises Dubai Sports World Dubai Indoor Football Championship
Dubai Summer Surprises Modhesh World Dubai Sports World Jurassic Park FINA Swimming World Cup
There’s always something happening in Dubai. It’s where the whole world comes together to be a part of breathtaking performances, once-in-a-lifetime shows, thrilling championships and incredible events. Feel the beat of the city as it pulses with joy. And live every unforgettable moment to the fullest. Share your Dubai event experiences on Instagram, using #MyDubai
SEPTEMBER • • • • •
Games 15 Eid in Dubai (Eid Al Adha) GITEX Shopper Dubai International Dance Festival Dubai Music Week
OCTOBER • • • • • • • • •
Downtown Design GITEX Technology Week Cityscape Global Fashion Forward S6 Gulf Bike Week Sensation Eid in Dubai (Eid Al Adha) Big Boys Toys Vogue Fashion Experience
NOVEMBER • International Symposium on Electronic Art • ART Fair Dubai 2015 • Samsung International Beach Soccer • Dubai World Hospitality Championship • DP World Tour Championship / Race to Dubai • 6th Dubai International Parachuting Championship • Mother, Baby & Child Show • Dubai Motor Festival • Dubai International Motor Show
DECEMBER • • • • •
Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens UAE National Day Dubai International Film Festival Omega Dubai Ladies Masters Spinney’s Dubai 92 Cycling Challenge • New Year Dubai
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Let’s do Dubai! See the sights. Indulge in gastronomy. Revel in the atmosphere. Explore the attractions. Follow our inspiring (and packed) five-day itinerary to see the best of Dubai. DAY
THEME:
Explore the past
Start your day at Dubai Museum (Pg 51) to immerse yourself in history. A fiveminute walk away you’ll discover the winding lanes and wind-towers of the Al Fahidi Historic District (Pg 51). Stop by the Arabian Tea House (formerly known as Basta Art Café) for refreshing mint
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lemonade. Peek into The Majlis Gallery (Pg 49) next door for a lesson in Middle Eastern art. If you get the timing right, join a tour at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (Pg 57). A short stroll along the Dubai Creek promenade will lead you to the Textile Souk (Pg 28) where variety takes on a new meaning and
bargaining is the norm. At the end of the souk, follow the promenade and you will soon reach Shindagha where you’ll discover Sheikh Saeed’s House – the house of the former ruler of Dubai and now a museum (Pg 52). Break for lunch at Bait Al Wakeel Heritage Restaurant next to the Textile Souk. From the old to the new – grab a cab and head over to Madinat Jumeirah, a modern take on an ancient Arab citadel. Start at the Madinat Souk (Pg 28) to pick up a souvenir, then hop onto an abra and glide through the meandering waterways of this Arabian complex. Dine at any of the Madinat’s 44 elite and award-winning restaurants that offer stunning views of the graceful Burj Al Arab.
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I T I N ER A R I ES
BURJ KHALIFA
DESERT SAFARI
DID YOU KNOW... N E W You can now go even higher up the Burj Khalifa with the opening of the Sky lounge on the 148th floor - the highest outdoor observatory in the world. The deck on the 124th floor still exists. Tickets for At The Top cost Dhs125 per adult; Sky tickets cost Dhs400. burjkhalifa.ae
SKI DUBAI
DAY
2
THEME:
Adventure
Whether you want to swim, surf, ski or race across the sand – Dubai is an enormous playground. Begin the day with a splash at Wild Wadi (Pg 14), where 30 gravity-defying thrills await adventure seekers. After soaking in the exhilaration, take a taxi to The Dubai Mall (Pg 27). As well as being the world’s largest shopping mall, it’s also an enormous entertainment park. Break for lunch at the food court, burn off the calories skating at the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink. Then it’s time to scale the mighty Burj Khalifa. Try an ‘At the Top’ experience and zoom to the 124th floor of the world’s tallest building for stunning views of the city, desert and ocean. Remember, tickets booked in advance cost half the price! Drop in for high tea at At.mosphere, the chic restaurant and lounge on the 122nd level of the tower. After returning to earth, head towards the Burj Lake to watch a marvellous display of lights, music and water that is The Dubai Fountain (Pg 18). Walk across the bridge that links the promenade to Souk Al Bahar (Pg 28) next door. Its gourmet restaurants and sophisticated lounges offer some of the finest tables in the city.
DAY
THEME:
Cool contrasts
Having seen old and new Dubai, it’s time for another contrast. Spend the morning by the coast, the afternoon on the ski slopes and in the evening escape to the desert. With year-round sunshine, you can be pretty sure it’s always beach weather in Dubai. The beach at The Walk JBR (Pg 67) is a treat. Laze at the shores to top up your tan or swim out to N E W The Arabian Waterpark (Pg 64) for some action-filled fun. Treat yourself to lunch, before strolling to Dubai Marina metro station for the next stop of the day: Mall of the Emirates. From sand to snow – see it to believe it. With a massive snow park, five ski runs and the N E W Snow Bullet zip line, Ski Dubai (Pg 17) is the region’s first indoor ski resort. Come late afternoon, head back to your hotel from where your tour operator will collect you for an exotic desert safari. The Arabian Desert is a playground like no other. Go dune bashing, sand boarding or ride a camel for a leisurely walk through the sands. Enjoy a Bedouin-style camp where the revelry begins with captivating traditional dances and fire shows.
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DAY
THEME: Wonderland
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Begin your journey at Palm Jumeirah’s Gateway station where the Palm Monorail awaits you. The fully-automated monorail runs from the foot of the Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis The Palm. The short ride offers stunning views of Dubai Marina and the Burj Al Arab. Hop off at the Atlantis station, and see the palatial resort, the Aquaventure waterpark (Pg 13) and the magnificent tunnels of the Lost Chambers (Pg 13). Don’t miss the opportunity to swim nose-to-nose with the resident dolphins (Pg 14). Having built up an appetite dig into a sumptuous buffet at Atlantis’ Kaleidoscope or tuck into the flavours of Italy at Ronda Locatelli. Now it’s time to discover why Dubai is called the ‘City of Gold’. Take the Dubai Metro to Al Ras station. Nearby stands the Dubai Gold Souk – a labyrinth of covered walkways that are home to over 300 shops offering dazzling jewellery in gold, diamonds and silver.(Pg 28). Don’t be shy when it comes to bargaining! Emerging from the souk, the Creek is straight ahead. Set sail for a lavish dinner cruise. There’s plenty of live entertainment onboard, but the views are the stars of the show as you drift past the docked dhows, the old souks and local landmarks.
DAY
THEME: Once in a lifetime…
5
No trip to Dubai is complete without a seaplane adventure. Taking off close to the elegant Dubai Creek and Golf Club, Seawings’ (Pg 59) 40-minute flight presents spectacular views of the Dubai Creek, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and The World Islands among others. Returning to the Golf Club (Pg 64), show off your skills – the 17th and 18th holes (both par 4s) are two of the most impressive, not to mention challenging, in the entire region. Break at the iconic Legends restaurant at the Creek Clubhouse. The steak here really is legendary – be it the Australian Wagyu or French Charolais. If you’re in need of relaxation we recommend the Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. As the day comes to a close, it’s time for one more ‘only-in-Dubai’ experience – the Culinary Flight at Burj Al Arab. The journey begins 200m above sea level at Skyview Bar before moving on through five of the hotel’s most impressive dining venues. Prepare to be treated like royalty, as each restaurant showcases its most sumptuous dishes in Al Muntaha, Al Iwan and Junsui, adding the finishing touches to an unforgettable culinary experience.
DUBAI GOLD SOUK
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LOST CHAMBERS
Turn to page 90 for alternative itineraries created by #MyDubai Trip. 78
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The perfect setting for a business traveller, ideally located in the heart of Dubai. Exceeding expectations for all your meetings and events. An outstanding place for a family vacation or luxurious city stay. Oering all the elegance and charm of a private home and luxury accommodation with a wide array of dining outlets.
T: +971 4 399 6666 | F: +971 4 381 8067 | E: info@gloriahotelsdubai.com P.O.Box: 502222 | Dubai Internet City | Sheikh Zayed Road | Dubai, U.A.E gloriahoteldubai.com | yassatgloria.com
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City by the sea Paying homage to its heritage as a seafaring nation, Dubai has become one of the most popular cruise destinations on earth. It’s not hard to see why. During the heyday of spice and silk trading, the sea was the way visitors reached Dubai. Large wooden dhows and smaller boats were the means of transport. Even today, the famed Dubai Creek – the trading hub – is lined with boats taking on or unloading cargo from neighbouring countries. For today’s modern traveller, cruising is the luxurious way to arrive in Dubai. Seeing the impressive city skyline from the waters of the Gulf is truly a sight to behold. Choose from one of the many exotic cruise ships that sail into the emirate from all over the world, berthing at the large ultra-modern Dubai Cruise 80
Terminal. The terminal can host 120 ships annually and more than 325,000 passengers. Earlier this year, Cunard’s two largest cruise liners stopped off in Dubai, illustrating its status as the region’s leading cruise hub. The city now serves as the home port for several cruise liners, including Princess Cruises, Van Gogh Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Seabourn Cruises and many more. Dubai is the port of choice for Italy-based Costa Cruises, Switzerland-based MSC Cruises, Germany’s Aida and TUI Cruises, and US-based Royal Caribbean – five of the world’s leading cruise lines.
There is also plenty of opportunity for shorter regional cruises from Dubai, along the Arabian coast out into the Gulf of Oman. Autumn to spring is the peak period for Arabian Gulf cruises, when the weather in Europe becomes colder and more inclement. A stellar list of attractions already makes Dubai a coveted holiday destination and the addition of impeccable cruising facilities has heightened the city’s allure. Drawing on its marine heritage, Dubai has one of the most advanced cruise terminals in the world. Every liner sailing into Mina Rashid enjoys world-class berthing facilities as well as ease of immigration and other formalities for passengers. This is clearly indicated by the fact that for six consecutive years, Mina Rashid has been named as the World’s Leading Cruise Port at the World Travel Awards.
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CRUISE
DUBAI CRUISE TERMINAL The Dubai Cruise Terminal (DCT) located at the massive Port Rashid (also known as Mina Rashid) is an impressive facility. Considered one of the top five luxurious ports in the world, over 500,000 people arrive here each year. A host of facilities, including swift and easy immigration procedures, free shuttle services, tour operator’s offices, a dedicated taxi counter, complimentary maps and brochures of Dubai and money exchange, ensure that arriving in Dubai is a convenient and hassle-free process. Port Rashid is currently undergoing a massive expansion with the building of a second terminal that will enable the port to service seven cruise ships at a time. When fully operational, the new terminal will double port capacity to handle more than 14,000 cruise passengers a day. It will cover an area of 24,000sq m, incorporating duty-free outlets, retail shops, currency exchanges and a VIP business centre.
HOIST THE SAILS If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on Dubai, taking a cruise is a great way to start. Luxurious on-board surroundings, exciting shore excursions and a chance to explore the larger Arabian Peninsula make a Dubai high-sea cruise the experience of a lifetime. DUBAI CRUISE BY RCI Royal Caribbean International (RCI), the largest global cruise line, is back to the Gulf in winter 2015–16. The fifth seasonal sailings will comprise 16 sailings from December 2015 through March 2016, visiting some of the Arabian coast’s most intriguing destinations on a seven-night itinerary. RCI’s Splendour of the Seas is scheduled to dock in its home port of Dubai, followed by the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, the capital of Oman, and the coastal city of Khasab. Splendour of the Seas is a magnificent vessel, which includes an outstanding ensemble of activities and facilities. The highlight of the ship is The Centrium, a chic and sophisticated venue replete with daytime activities and dazzling nightly entertainment. From highly-acclaimed dining concepts to a miniature golf course, a fully-equipped gym and an indulgent spa, this is an unforgettable holiday experience. After sampling the on-board opulence, cruisers can look forward to a diverse programme of shore excursions such as a Dubai city tour, complete with stops at the city’s heritage areas, the renowned Jumeirah Mosque, architectural icons such as Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab and shopping wonderlands Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall.
IN NUMBERS…. 13M
16
20
17
55
13 12,629 6,904 7 5,251 5 2,756 7 7,494
2001 A
2002 A
2003 A
2004 A
2005 A
28
113,907
21
92
Number of Number of Ship calls retail shops companies that made at Dubai planned at the offer cruises Cruise Terminal new terminal to Dubai in 2014
425,000
Passengers expected to sail into Dubai by the end of 2015 450,000
DUBAI CRUISE TOURISM STATISTICS (2001 — 2016)
390,255
87
82
Port Rashid depth at the berths
Roundtrip sailings to be offered by RCI between December 2015 and March 2016
royalcaribbean.com
Number of calls Number of passengers A Arrived E Expected
11M
Port Rashid depth at the channel
262,740 103
396,554
108
407,825
425,000 386,083 120
325,000 110
113
105
92
182,023
32,171
2006 A
2007 A
2008 A
2009 A
2010 A
2011 A
2012 A
2013 A
2014 E
2015 E
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Business Begins Here A diverse and dynamic economy alongside its strategic location makes Dubai the leading commercial hub of the region. One look at a world map will tell you why Dubai is the perfect spot for a meeting of global delegates. Its strategic location between East and West makes it the perfect gateway to emerging markets in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. One third of the world’s population is only a four-hour flight away and the rest are just eight hours away. Accessibility, first-class infrastructure and winning service in excellent venues make Dubai the perfect choice for business. Dubai’s strategic location is backed up by outstanding accessibility 82
thanks to the state-of-the-art Dubai International Airport (DXB) – ranked as the world’s second busiest airport. DXB saw 66 million international passengers pass through its terminals in 2013. It is expected that annual passenger numbers will reach 78 million in 2015 and 98 million by 2020. Supporting Dubai’s massive aviation growth is Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC), Dubai’s second airport. Currently undergoing a massive expansion, upon completion DWC will become the world’s largest airport.
For business travellers Dubai’s hotels offer a range of flexible business facilities. Whether it is a meeting for 10 people or a convention for thousands, the ideal venue is here. As an incentive to delegates it offers an array of truly memorable experiences. From desert safaris, dune bashing, falconry and camel riding to skydiving, diving with sharks, seaplane and helicopter rides over the city or indulgent high teas, world-class shopping, dining and nightlife – it is all available here, all year round. Dubai was named as one of the top three most vibrant cities in the world in the 2014 City Momentum Index released by realtor Jones Lang LaSalle in January 2014. Describing the yardsticks for the index, LaSalle said, “highly dynamic cities are characterised by their speed of innovation and the creation of cuttingedge businesses.”
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B U S I N ES S
BUSINESS BEYOND IMAGINATION
CONRAD DUBAI
With its meandering waterways and rich Arabian architecture, this inspiring venue blends old-world traditions with contemporary amenities. USP: The novelty factor, versatility and capacity. It’s the host of several key events, including Art Dubai, the Dubai International Film Festival and the World Economic Forum. MEETING OPTIONS: Mina A’Salam has two Arabic-style ballrooms – Majlis Al Mina (capacity 120 guests) and Majlis Al Salam (capacity 400 guests). The Madinat Conference Centre includes two divisible grand ballrooms and four 50-seater meeting rooms. Outdoors, Fort Island is an Arabic-themed fortress that can accommodate up to 400 people. Larger events can be held at the Madinat Theatre (seats 442); the Amphitheatre (capacity 1,000 guests) or the Madinat Arena (capacity 4,500 guests). OTHER: The Madinat Souk and the Talise Spa. DINING OPTIONS: Over 40 restaurants serving international cuisine.
This state-of-the-art hotel is just a two-minute walk from the Dubai World Trade Centre. USP: Home to the largest day-lit ballroom in Dubai. MEETING OPTIONS: The 1,215sq m Ballroom seats up to 1,100 delegates, while its second 800sq m ballroom holds up to 725 delegates. Plus 11 individual meeting rooms, seating from 30 to 62, and three boardrooms for up to 16 people, Conrad Dubai also boasts the largest pre-function area in Dubai, at 790sq m. OTHER: The first Purobeach venue outside Europe. With its temperature-controlled pool and cocoon beds, Purobeach Urban Oasis is the ultimate escape. DINING OPTIONS: Six restaurants and lounges, including the Marco Pierre White Grill.
jumeirah.com
conraddubai.com
With 56 per cent of the world’s largest companies operating in Dubai, business is taken very seriously with a venue for every occasion. Here are a few that are sure to seal the deal. MADINAT JUMEIRAH
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B U S I N ES S
DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE (DWTC) This is the region’s largest purposebuilt complex for events and exhibitions offering a million square feet of flexible and versatile exhibition space along with a host of other facilities. USP: In a word: capacity. In 2013, this mega venue hosted 373 MICE and business events, attracting 2.2 million trade delegates and attendees from 153 countries, exhibiting companies from over 130 nations. MEETING OPTIONS: Numerous exhibition halls and extensive conference spaces, alongside around 40 smaller meeting rooms, with capacity varying from 20 people to over 200. OTHER: On-site hotels include the Novotel World Trade Centre, the Ibis World Trade Centre and The Apartments Dubai World Trade Centre. DINING OPTIONS: Casual cafés, fast-food outlets and fine-dining establishments.
dwtc.com
THE PALACE DOWNTOWN DUBAI AL MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA Spread across vast shifting sand dunes, this uber-luxurious eco-resort in the desert replicates a Bedouin camp. USP: Desert setting offers complete privacy in an authentic Arabesque setting. MEETING OPTIONS: Indoors, the Al Majlis boardroom seats up to 90. Outdoors, the Campsite is ideal for more relaxed gatherings and corporate dinners. OTHER: Nature walks, horse riding, camel trekking and wildlife drives. DINING OPTIONS: Al Diwan – Organic Fine Dining and The Terrace Bar. The resort can also arrange for dune dinners upon request.
al-maha.com
DID YOU KNOW... Let the team at Dubai Business Events – the official Convention Bureau – do the groundwork for your next business event. Its team is on hand to recommend venues, secure deals, help you with your itinerary and advise on the logistics. Drop them a line on askdbe@dubaitourism.ae
Classic themes and Arabian tradition meet at this Downtown venue. USP: Meeting rooms looking out onto the Dubai Fountain, Burj Khalifa and Burj Lake. MEETING OPTIONS: The Royale, accommodating up to 300 guests. The Regent and Palatine meeting rooms (Burj Lake view) can host up to 20 delegates. The Viewing Deck (seats 200), Thiptara and Asado are perfect for dinner meetings and offer stunning views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. OTHER: Unwind and rejuvenate at The Spa. DINING OPTIONS: Seven restaurants serving flavours ranging from Asian to Argentinean.
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ATLANTIS THE PALM Perched on the crest of Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis has extensive facilities lending itself to a variety of functions. USP: This 1,539-room resort bills itself as ‘the largest eat, meet and sleep conference venue in Dubai’. MEETING OPTIONS: 14 meeting rooms, three ballrooms and two boardrooms, alongside a pre-function area of 1,000sq m offering floor-to-ceiling views of The Royal Tower beach. The 630sq m Royal Terrace is ideal for up to 250 people to network and watch the sunset. Outdoors, intimate receptions can be held at The Palm Grove that stands amidst a private enclave surrounded by sumptuous gardens. Larger and more casual outdoor and evening events can be hosted on the Aquaventure beach. OTHER: Aquaventure, Dolphin Bay and Ambassador Lagoon – all great places for teambuilding. DINING OPTIONS: 23 restaurants and lounges serving over 28 different cuisines.
atlantisthepalm.com
DUBAI ASSOCIATION CENTRE The Dubai Association Centre (DAC) is an important gateway to Dubai’s rise to prominence as a MICE destination. The centre is a joint initiative of DWTC, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), and Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM). It allows professional associations, trade bodies and international non-profit organisations an easy process for setting up international or regional branch offices in the city. DAC provides practical support – such as serviced office accommodation, residency visas for expat employees, DCCI licences as well as marketing support, sourcing endorsements and the opportunity for introduction to local industry and government contacts. Furthermore, the Centre provides access to association management organisation MCI Middle East, which helps develop feasibility and business plans for associations expanding into the Middle East. dwtc.com
JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS These two iconic towers sit in the heart of Dubai’s business and tourist district. USP: Standing 355.35m from ground level to the top of its mast, this is the world’s tallest hotel. MEETING OPTIONS: Built over 72 floors, offering up to 5,155sq m of total meeting space spread across 32 meeting rooms and two large ballrooms. Capacities range from 18 to 1,548 delegates. The Ballroom has its own pre-function area, capable of hosting receptions for up to 800 guests. OTHER: A comprehensive range of business amenities. DINING OPTIONS: Nine restaurants and five lounges.
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The Story Behind the Photos The people of Dubai unveil their everyday lives in this remarkable city. Back in January 2014 the #MyDubai initiative was created by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, with a request for residents and visitors to join him in sharing photos, videos and stories on social media and show their experiences of Dubai. 88
The intention is to celebrate the everyday lives of the people and communities in the emirate and show the city that is beneath the landmarks, headlines and superlatives. The contributions are shared across social media platforms and in other forms of creative media such as exhibitions and art installations. At the time of writing (November 2014), more than 1.7 million
photographs had been posted on Instagram using the hashtag – with the number growing by the day. Launching the initiative, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan said: “A city’s story is created by its people and it’s time to join together and show the world how 2.1 million people can create one remarkable story: together we will create the world’s first autobiography of a city.” A selection of contributions can be seen @MyDubai on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Here are just a few of the latest posts from Dubai residents:
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#M Y D U B A I
@FEARLESSINDUBAI
@NAJEEBMUSALLA
‘These boys were sitting on my doorstep at my home in Deira. I love the passion in this shot – it really reflects the happiness and strong friendship of the children of Dubai.’ Najeeb Musallam, Yemeni
@ALIHAMMADI85
‘I’m a skydiving instructor at Skyhub Paramotors by Skydive Dubai and I took this shot using a camera strapped to my ankle. My friend in the background, Abdulla Al Mazroui, and I had just been for a leisurely dive in our desert camp on the Al Ain road.’ Ali Al Hammadi, Emirati
’This proves that it does rain in Dubai – but it’s such a rare occurrence it deserved a photo. I took this shot of my friend in Safa Park, I used to play here as a child – but not until this moment did I realise that I’d never been to the park in the rain!’ Saleh al Braik, Emirati
@MAYED-ALSABRI
@YACOBAHLI
‘I love the fact that the old tradition of falconry is still very much alive in our young generation today. This photo say it all.’ Yacob Ahli, Emirati
@TRAVELJUNKIEDIARY
‘Friendship comes in all shapes and sizes and my best friend just happens to be Khaleejy, my horse.’ Michelle Shoucair Karam, Jordanian.
‘My friend Hamad took this shot of me while we were out diving and paddling. We like to do this as often as we can.’ Mayed Al Sabri, Emirati W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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PEETA BROTHERS
TRIP In August 2014 the #MyDubai initiative took on another dimension with the creation of #MyDubai Trip. #MyDubai Trip is an exclusive series of videos that documented the journey of some of the most influential Instagrammers from around the world as they experienced Dubai. The twist? Their itineraries were thoughtfully curated and crowdsourced from several of Dubai’s renowned social media personalities. Headed up by Qabeela New Media, the 12-episode travel series of videos was curated by well-known Emirati social travel experts, Peeta Planet – an award-winning travel series broadcast to 50 million TV viewers across the Middle East featuring two brothers 90
from the United Arab Emirates who visit countries across the world, with their journeys decided by recommendations made on social media. The #MyDubai Trip is the first time the model of social travel has been applied to their home city. Around 30 itineraries were curated by residents of Dubai, all of whom are prominent across social media, within their respective industries of fashion, food, sports, culture and entrepreneurship. The itineraries were posted on Peeta Planet’s Facebook page with the general public asked to vote for their favourite. The 12
most voted for itineraries were then each filmed as one episode of Peeta Planet’s ‘#MyDubai Trip’ series. Joining Mohamed and Peyman on the ‘#MyDubai Trip’ film series were 12 globally prominent Instagram users, chosen by another public vote. “The #MyDubai Trip’ series draws upon local knowledge and aims to transform residents of Dubai into advocates of tourism for their city,” says Mohamed Al Awadhi of Peeta Planet. “It’s been an amazing experience working on this project in our own city. What became quickly apparent was the enthusiasm from local Dubai residents about their home. And then seeing that enthusiasm filter through to our visiting winning international Instagrammers was really rewarding.” Of the winning 12 itineraries here are just a few:
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#M Y D U B A I
SAMANTHA WOOD @foodiva
Followers: 15,000 + A Dubai celebrity when it comes to food and restaurant reviews. She’s behind foodiva.net
MEETS
SAÚL AGUILAR @saaggo
ANAS BUKHASH @anasbukhash
Followers: 214,189 A Mexican photographer based in the French capital.
Followers: 600,518 An Emirati entrepreneur, media personality and mechanical engineer born and raised in Dubai, with a passion for photography.
Samantha’s recommendations: • • • • • • ‘I hand-picked activities that included my most treasured local haunts, those that are not on the typical tourist trail and that tap into the Middle Eastern culture that I’ve embraced since living here for the past 15 years.’ HERALD HERRERA @heraldherrera
DEVRIM ATES @evolutionship
Followers: 25,626 Manages the Instagrammers Dubai
Followers: 600,518
MEETS
teacher and is in love with taking photographs.
mobile photography via photo walks and Instameets. Herald’s recommendations: •
•
•
•
• • ‘I’m on a mission through my photos to showcase the non-glittery and everyday aspects of Dubai. This itinerary hunts out the lesser-known spots that really exude Arabic culture.’ NOURALDIN AL YOUSEF @nouraldin1
SEO JU PARK @seojups
Followers: 41,263 A regional media personality
Followers: 25,693 Born in Mexico, is a musician, photographer, explorer and enthusiast.
MEETS
entertainment programmes. Nouraldin’s recommendations: •
•
•
•
Followers: 31,917 She’s a proud Emirati who loves photography, writing and the simple things in life.
PAULO DEL VALLE @paulodelvalle MEETS
GARETH PON @garethpon
Followers: 192,509 This filmmaker and photographer hails from South Africa and is Africa’s top Instagrammer. Anas’ recommendations: • • • • • • Iranian restaurant Special Ostadi, a Bur Dubai institution since 1978. ‘I had to include hot-air ballooning in the desert – it’s so magical at sunrise. And again, after dark when all the stars are out there’s nothing quite like the desert.’ KAREN MCLEAN @secretsquirrelfood
Followers: 55,671 The creative mind, photographer and sneaky chef behind the Secret Squirrel food blog. She’s an Australian lover of health foods and passionate about clean eating. MEETS
•
• ‘I wanted my itinerary to demonstrate the complete diversity on offer in Dubai, so I’ve thrown in some cultural insights, some cutting-edge fashion and a taste of Dubai’s world cuisines.’ SHARIFA BADRI @shooshz
MEETS
Followers: 249,536 A 25-year-old photographer and designer from Rio de
Sharifa’s recommendations: • • once the official residence of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai between 1912 • • • ‘It’s amazing to see the old Heritage House and then look down on this modern metropolis from a helicopter – the contrast will really make you appreciate just how far Dubai has progressed in such a short time.’
DANNY ZAPPA @dannyzappa
Followers: 270,810 A social photographer based in São Paulo; a bike rider, grid lover, perfect pixel pusher, photographer by nature and tech enthusiast. Karen’s recommendations: • • • •
•
•
‘I love the XVA Art Hotel (its peaceful courtyard is a little oasis in this bustling city) and Bab Al Shams, a perfectly luxurious way to see the desert! A bit of old, a bit of new and lots of fun!’ W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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Future plans and projects No one can truly say they’ve ‘done Dubai’. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, something new and unique will pop up! Dubai is constantly on the move, constantly striving for more. HATTA VILLAGE INN AND MARKET PROJECT
QUR’AN PARK
COMPLETION: 2015
Located in Al Khawaneej, the 65-hectare park is being designed with the Holy Qur’an in mind, featuring many of the 54 plants that are mentioned in the text, such as olive trees, basil, figs and pomegranates. It will include a special Islamic garden, children’s play areas, an Umrah corner and numerous entertainment activities.
Tourism in Dubai’s mountainous village of Hatta is set for a boost with the development of a Dhs29million ‘green’ motel and heritage market on the main road between Hatta and Oman. This 92,500sq ft Hatta Heritage Souk and Motel will incorporate 46 stores and three main restaurants. 92
COMPLETION: 2015
DUBAI FRAME COMPLETION: 2015
Raising 150m from the ground and 93m wide, the shape will resemble a huge picture frame in Dubai’s Zabeel Park. Visitors can take an elevator up to the top of the frame at 150m and walk along a glass-floor bridge to enjoy stunning views.
DUBAI DESIGN DISTRICT (D3) COMPLETION: 2015
A purpose-built community dedicated to promoting and nurturing emerging local talent while also providing a creative home to established international design, luxury and fashion brands. Along with studios, and workshops, d3 will also offer residential and convention spaces, along with boutique hotels. dubaidesigndistrict.com
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THE FUTURE
LEGOLAND DUBAI COMPLETION: 2016
Merlin Entertainments is developing the first Legoland attraction in the Middle East and the seventh to open worldwide. The Legoland development is part of a phase that will also include theme parks Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai. Motiongate Dubai will cover four million sq ft and is expected to attract three million visitors a year.
legoland.com
DUBAI CANAL PROJECT COMPLETION: 2016
DUBAI OPERA HOUSE
DUBAI SAFARI PARK
WIRE WORLD
COMPLETION: 2015
COMPLETION: 2015
The park, in an area of almost 400 hectares, will comprise a safari village, Arabian village, Asian village, African village, a children’s zoo, butterfly park and botanical garden in addition to educational and veterinary facilities. The animals and birds from the current Dubai Zoo will also be transferred to the new venue in Al Warqa, which is 80 times bigger than the Jumeirah facility. Authorities plan to tap into solar energy to generate electricity and power.
Adding another world first to Dubai’s repertoire, Wire World Meydan Adventure Park is billed as the largest man-made adventure park of its kind. Located at the heart of Meydan alongside the renowned racecourse, Wire World will cover 25,000sq ft and will feature 70 obstacles set in trees, across rocks and on poles and posts and is designed to be a fun challenge for all ages.
dubaicity.com
IMG WORLDS OF ADVENTURE COMPLETION: TO BE CONFIRMED
With a capacity to welcome an excess of 20,000 visitors a day this will be the first leisure destination in the world to bring global brands Cartoon Network and Marvel together in one location, in addition to Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, an original concept by the developers Ilyas & Mustafa Galadari (IMG) Group.
imgwoa.ae
wireworldparks.com
DEIRA FISH MARKET COMPLETION: 2015
Dubai’s new 120,000sq ft, Dhs250 million fish market at Al Hamriya will incorporate hundreds of fish and fruit and vegetable stalls, spice shops and restaurants. This complex is set to replace the old fish market that has stood in Deira since 1988. It is anticipated that the new market will become a tourist attraction which will promote traditional activities in ‘modern and sophisticated’ ways.
This prestigious project will see the Dubai Creek extend from Business Bay across the Sheikh Zayed Road, Safa Park, Al Wasl Road and Jumeirah Beach Road to connect with the sea. The three km extension will cost around Dhs2 billion and will provide new areas measuring 80,000sq m for public places, cycling paths, hotels, restaurant as well as private marinas for boats and a new trade centre.
DUBAI OPERA HOUSE AND DUBAI OPERA DISTRICT COMPLETION: 2017
Located in Downtown Dubai, close to Burj Khalifa, the 2,000-seat Dubai Opera will be as iconic as the worldfamous Sydney Opera House, with a design based on the traditional sailing vessels of the Arabian Gulf. Developed by Emaar Properties, the opera house will be the centrepiece of a wider development known as Dubai Opera District.
emaar.com
DID YOU KNOW... Legoland Dubai will feature 15,000 Lego models made from more than 60 million Lego bricks. The Park will have more than 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions.
W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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MALL OF THE WORLD COMPLETION: 2024
MALL OF THE WORLD
SIX FLAGS THEME PARK
The Mall of the World will be located along Sheikh Zayed Road and spread over a total area of 48 million sq ft. This truly massive project is set to be the world’s first temperaturecontrolled pedestrian city, complete with a glass dome enclosure that can be opened up during the winter months. Mall of the World is projected to attract an impressive 180 million visitors annually. As the name might suggest, Mall of the World will be the largest mall in the world with an area of eight million sq ft. It will have the world’s largest indoor theme park as well as 100 hotels and serviced apartment properties, offering a combined 20,000 rooms.
COMPLETION: 2017
MALL OF THE WORLD
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, the world’s largest regional theme park company, and Meraas Leisure and Entertainment, have announced plans to bring a theme park to Dubai, opening in 2017. Launched by Meraas, this will be Six Flags’ first foray outside North America.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLUEWATERS ISLAND
World’s largest mall occupying 8 million sq ft connected to 100 hotels and serviced apartments with 20,000 hotel rooms.
COMPLETION: 2018
Built on reclaimed land some 500 metres off the Jumeirah Beach Residence coastline, near Dubai Marina, Bluewaters Island will offer retail, residential, hospitality and entertainment zones. Its centrepiece will be the 210m Dubai Eye, set to be the tallest Ferris wheel in the world.
Temperature-controlled covered retail street network spreading over seven km.
meraas.com
Largest indoor family theme park in the world.
DUBAI EXPO SITE COMPLETION: OCTOBER 2019
The 438-hectare site for the World Expo 2020 will have a solar-powered canvas canopy providing shade for visitors during the day, while a panel-lined roof will light up at night for spectacular digital shows. The Expo’s Metro station will be located within a new mall to serve the area, encompassing an Expo Village, with 2,100 apartments.
expo2020dubai.ae
ALADDIN CITY COMPLETION: TO BE CONFIRMED
Inspired by the tales of Aladdin and Sindbad, the three towers that make up this development will resemble Aladdin’s magical lamp. Built in the air space above the Dhow Wharfage in Dubai Creek, the towers – comprising a hotel and two commercial towers – will be connected with a 450m air-conditioned pedestrian bridge with travellators. 94
Wellness district catering to medical tourists in a three million sq ft area. Cultural district comprising theatres built around New York’s Broadway, The Celebration Walk, similar to the Ramblas Street in Barcelona and shopping streets based on London’s Oxford Street. Dubai’s largest celebration centre accommodating 15,000 revellers.
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Travel Essentials Things to know before you go. GETTING HERE AIRPORT
Dubai International (DXB) is served by more than 125 airlines flying to more than 260 destinations across six continents. Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) is the world’s largest airport. dubaiairports.ae CLOTHING
While dress codes are fairly liberal, it is best to dress modestly. Lightweight clothing is ideal. Do carry a light jacket or shawl during the winter months, as the evenings tend to get chilly. Swimwear should be restricted to beaches and swimming pools. CRUISE
Royal Caribbean International, TUI Cruises and Costa Cruises offer fivestar cruises to Dubai (Pg 81). CURRENCY
United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED or Dhs). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. Linked to the Special Drawing Right of the International 96
Monetary Fund, the dirham has held constant against the US dollar at a mid-rate of approximately US$1= Dhs3.679. GEOGRAPHY
Dubai is the second largest emirate of the UAE with an area of 4,114sq km. It is located in the northwestern region of the country along the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Its neighbouring emirate, Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE. LANGUAGE
Arabic is the official language of the United Arab Emirates. English is widely spoken and understood and used in business and commerce. Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam, Bengali, Russian and Tagalog are also spoken. MEDICAL CARE
All of Dubai’s hospitals are regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Dubai Hospital, Latifa Hospital and Rashid Hospital are operated by DHA itself. Numerous private clinics and hospitals also offer
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top-notch facilities for both inpatients and outpatients.
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POPULATION
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2.3 million
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Etisalat and du are the key mobile network operators in the country. Both offer temporary SIM cards for visitors. Customer service centres are available at most malls and at the airports. You will require an ID to apply. etisalat.ae du.ae
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TIME
The United Arab Emirates is four hours ahead of GMT. TIPPING
Where no service charge is included, a tip of 10 per cent of the bill amount is considered adequate. UTILITIES
Electricity - The electricity supply is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles. US-made appliances may need a transformer. Water - Locally bottled and international mineral water is best and always available. Weights and Measures - Officially, the metric system is followed.
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GOLDEN SANDS Hotel Apartments
Chic, Comfortable, Affordable
Feel relaxed at your home
GOLDEN SANDS 10 HOTEL APARTMENTS
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Experience laid-back living at Golden Sands Hotel Apartments! Our well-appointed rooms, first-rate amenities and topnotch hospitality let you unwind and enjoy superb comfort and leisure all throughout your stay. Location: Centrally located in Bur Dubai • Close to major shopping malls, hypermarkets and public garden • Easy access to metro stations • 10 km drive from Dubai International Airport and with easy access to Sheikh Zayed Road
Tel: +971 4 3555553 | Fax: +971 4 3526903, P.O. Box: 9168, Dubai, U.A.E. Email: reservation@goldensands.ae www.goldensandsdubai.com
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MAMZAR PARK
ABRA
GREAT VALUE DUBAI You can still have the holiday of a lifetime in Dubai without having to shell out a fortune. Dubai prides itself on being a city that is open to everyone and offers plenty of excellent-value experiences – many are completely free! UNDER DHS10 RIDE THE ABRA FOR DHS1
The short ride across the Dubai Creek from the Textile Souk to the Old Souk is one of the highlights of a trip to Dubai – and at one dirham, it’s one of the cheapest! TAKE A METRO TOUR OF DUBAI – FROM DHS1.80
Not only is the Dubai Metro a brilliant way to get around, but its elevated position also makes an ideal viewing platform from which to see the city (Pg 103). A DAY AT THE PARK FOR DHS3
While many parks are completely free, the bigger parks charge a very minimal entry fee. Safa Park, Al Mamzar Park and Dubai Creek Park all offer children’s play areas, plus barbecue and picnic spots (Pg 61).
UNDER DHS100 THE WORLD’S RICHEST HORSE RACE FOR DHS25
Truly one of the great highlights of the Dubai social and sporting calendar. General admission to the Dubai World Cup, to watch the world’s finest thoroughbred horses thunder down the track of Meydan’s racecourse is only Dhs25, meaning this prestigious event is open to all.
dubairacingclub.com MEAL FOR TWO FOR UNDER DHS30
Head to the streets of Satwa or Deira for lip-smacking curries, warm breads and steamed rice. Delicious Emirati sandwich rolls such as the shawarma (available in chicken and lamb) and falafel (vegetarian) are filling options too. All under Dhs30. Turn to page 34 to find out more about cheap eats. DUBAI DUTY FREE TENNIS
SEE THE MUSEUM FOR DHS3
CHAMPIONSHIPS FOR DHS75
Dubai Museum tells the story of how Dubai grew from a fishing village to the metropolis you see today (Pg 51).
A small price to pay to see the likes of Federer and Djokovic battle it out on the court in one of the biggest tournaments on the international tennis front. See three matches for this one price.
VISIT JUMEIRAH MOSQUE FOR DHS10
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding conducts awareness tours at the mosque every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am. At Dhs10 this is a great value and enlightening tour. 98
dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com
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P R A C T I C A L I N F O R M AT I O N
SECRET TIP The Entertainer book or app is full of ‘buy-one-get-one-free’ vouchers and is widely used by residents and visitors. theentertainerme.com
FREE! Entertainment that doesn’t cost a dirham! THE WORLD’S LARGEST DANCING FOUNTAIN
Set on the 30-acre Burj Lake at the base of the world’s tallest building, Dubai Fountain offers a vibrant musical and visual experience. Shows take place at 1pm and 1.30pm and then every half an hour from 6pm to 11.30pm.
DUBAI FOUNTAINS
PUBLIC BEACH
Beaches dotted along the coast at Dubai Marina, Al Sufouh, Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah boast clean, white sand and crystal-clear water. DABBLE IN CULTURE
Explore the labyrinth of cobbled streets in the restored Al Fahidi Historic District with its wind-tower houses, art galleries and cafés. CAMEL RACING
Watch camels thunder along the racetrack at Al Marmoon Camel Racetrack. Head out for either the early morning or late afternoon races. The season runs from November to March.
EMIRATES AIRLINE DUBAI JAZZ FESTIVAL
DISCOVER THE OLD SOUKS
Explore the covered markets of yesteryear along the shores of the Dubai Creek. The Textile, Spice and Gold Souks are open from 7am – 12pm and 5pm – 7pm every day and in the evening only on Fridays.
EMIRATES AIRLINE DUBAI JAZZ FESTIVAL
SEE OVER 30,000 MARINE ANIMALS
europeantour.com
Head to the Dubai Aquarium at The Dubai Mall, look into the glass tank and admire over 33,000 aquatic animals, more than 70 species, including the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world.
During the Jazz Festival look out for the free concerts open to all.
facebook.com/DubaiJazzFest DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP
Follow the Pros as they tee off on the Earth course of Jumeirah Golf Estates. Tickets are free to all those who pre-register.
DID YOU KNOW... If you’ve got two wheels head to the free bike tracks at Nad Al Sheba or the desert track of Al Qudra.
W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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Ticket to Ride Sightseeing across Dubai is made easy thanks to the city’s comprehensive public transport services. TAXI
WATER BUS
Taxi services are government regulated. The minimum fare for a taxi in Dubai is Dhs10. Airport transfers to any emirate start from Dhs20. Taxis for special needs travellers and ladies taxis are also available. You’ll find taxi ranks at the shopping malls and tourist hubs. You can also hail a taxi from the street. To order a taxi call +971 4 208 0808
Beginning at Al Shindagha Station, enjoy a 45-minute trip along the Creek to Al Seef Station.
BUS
DUBAI METRO Launched in 2009, the Dubai Metro covers the length and breadth of the city with the 52km Red Line that runs from Rashidiya to Jebel Ali and the 23.9km Green Line that runs from Al Qusais to Jadaf (Pg 102).
The public bus system consists of 734 peak bus schedules, which are run on 79 routes – meaning all of Dubai is accessible by bus. Feeder buses to metro stations are also available.
MONORAIL
rta.ae
palm-monorail.com
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Running along the trunk of Palm Jumeirah the monorail operates from 10am - 10pm every 15 mimutes. One way costs Dhs15.
CAR HIRE A range of local and internationally renowned companies offer cars for hire. Customers must provide their passport together with a valid international driving license. Visitors without an international driving license can obtain a temporary local license if they have a valid local license from one of the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Iceland, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK and the US. Canadian nationals have to get an affidavit from the Canadian Consulate in Dubai, verifying the license before going to the traffic department. Applicants are required to submit their passport, valid national license and two photographs.
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GETTING AROUND
52.1 KM
22.51 KM
IN NUMBERS….
the total distance of the Red Line
74.1 KM
the total distance of the Green Line
the total distance covered by the Dubai Metro every day
28.9 MILLION KM
the total distance covered by the Dubai Metro so far – more than three times the circumference of the Earth
377,423
643
10 HRS
the total time a train runs every Friday
768,484
total number of people who used the Metro every day in 2013 passengers can be accommodated in a single train
470 MILLION
the total trips made by the Dubai Metro on both the Red and Green lines until July 2014
365 DAYS
137,759,258
in a year, the Dubai Metro runs
80%
the total number of passengers who have travelled by Metro since 09/09/09
the number of passengers who used the Dubai Metro in 2013
700
Metro staff, trained in first aid and medical assistance, are present at all the stations
of the water used to wash the trains is recycled
3 MIN
how often trains arrive during peak hour
15-20 SEC
the time the platform screen doors of a train are open
1.5 KM
the distance between Metro stations
62 TRAINS
run on the Green and Red lines
OVER 4,000
CCTV cameras have been installed across trains and stations on the Dubai Metro for safety and security purposes
A new one day hop-on, hop-off ticket for RTA’s water bus service makes it easier to navigate Dubai Marina. The Dhs25 ticket permits unlimited travel between both sides of the Marina and is coupled with 28 discount vouchers from tour operators, restaurants and retail outlets in Dubai, including The Lost Chambers at Atlantis Hotel, Wild Wadi, and a trip from a Seawings seaplane.
NEW!
+971 4 396 3135.
DUBAI TRAM LINE The Dubai Tram system is fast becoming an integral part of the Dubai transport network, linking the Dubai Metro and the Palm Monorail. Launched on November 11 2014, Phase One of the Dubai Tram runs from Al Sufouh to the
Dubai Marina. The tram runs for 20 hours a day from 5am until 1am, with each train carrying a maximum of 405 passengers. The 11 trains, each with five carriages divided into Gold, Silver and family, are expected to serve 27,000 riders per day.
Operating at a maximum speed of 50km/h, the tram takes 42 minutes for a trip from the Dubai Marina to Al Sufouh. It’s the first tram in the world to have platform screen doors at all stations. Fares are fixed at Dh3.
alsufouhtram.com
JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE 2 MINA SEYAHI
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MARINA TOWERS JLT METRO STATION
DUBAI MARINA MALL
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TOUR DUBAI ON THE METRO We tell you where to hop on and hop off.
GREEN LINE Using the Metro’s green line, one can visit heritage sights, museums and traditional souks. It’s time to embrace Old Dubai. 18 UNION
Union serves as an interchange for train passengers, the red and green lines intersect in this station. Dubai Creek and the Union Square Bus Station are close by. 21 BANIYAS SQUARE
Hop off here for a short stroll to the old part of Dubai Creek. 23 AL RAS
Dubai Gold Souk is a short walk from here. Be prepared to barter. 24 AL GHUBAIBA
This station is next to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. Adjacent to the metro station is the Al Shindagha historical district, an area where you can have a glimpse of bedouin
lifestyle in the many museums beside the Creek. Take a memorable ride in a traditional wooden boat, abra, and cruise to the opposite bank. 26 BURJUMAN
Like Union, the red and green line also meet at BurJuman Metro Station, close to BurJuman the designer-loving shopping mall. 27 OUD METHA
This station is close to Oud Metha Mosque, in addition to this, those who’d like to hear Catholic mass can do so at the nearby St. Mary’s Church. In case of emergencies, Rashid Hospital is a short walk away.
DID YOU KNOW... Nol comes from an old Arabic word which means ‘tariff’ or ‘fare’. Pedestrian bridges at Metro stations can be used around the clock by all, even if they are not using the Metro. Children aged five and under, or up to 90cms in height can travel free on the Metro. Dhs1.8 to Dhs6.5 is the fare for a single journey on the Metro. Dhs14 is the fare for a daily Metro pass Dhs100 – Dhs270 is the fare for a monthly Metro pass
28 HEALTHCARE CITY
Healthcare City is a community of hospitals and clinics. You can also reach Wafi through this station, an Egyptian-themed shopping mall and a pyramid-shaped hotel. Creek Park is a 20-minute walk from here.
NOL CARD The Nol Card is a smart card that enables commuters to pay for various modes of transport with a single card. It can be used on Dubai’s metro, buses, water buses, as well as pay for parking. These cards can be purchased and recharged at Dubai Metro station ticket booths and ticket vending machines, Dubai bus stations, Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) Customer Service Centres and RTA-authorized sales agents. nol.ae
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GETTING AROUND
RED LINE The Dubai Metro’s red line crosses the city. Use it to visit some of the major attractions. 11 RASHIDIYA
Get off here for Mirdif City Centre via feeder bus F10 (feeder bus ride is free) or hail a taxi cab (fare at around Dhs10-15). 12 EMIRATES
For Dubai Festival City walk to the first exit on your right and ride the feeder bus F08 or bus #4 at the bus stop near the station. The bus will take you to the mall. 13 AIRPORT TERMINAL 3
This station is connected to Airport Terminal 3, which is exclusively for Emirates airlines flights. 14 AIRPORT TERMINAL 1
Connected to Airport Terminal 1, an arrival and departure area for international flights other than Emirates airlines. 16 DEIRA CITY CENTRE
Named after the shopping mall beside it. Deira City Centre has all the basics a mall must have: a supermarket, retail shops, cafes and restaurants. 18 UNION
Union is one of the two stations where the red line and green lines intersect. Adjacent to it is Al Ghurair Centre, Dubai’s oldest shopping mall. The Dubai Creek is just a short walk from this station. 19 BURJUMAN
Like Union, this station also serves as an interchange for train passengers. BurJuman is the home of BurJuman Mall with designer boutiques.
20 ADCB (KARAMA)
From this station, take the bus or ride a taxi to Karama Souk. Here, you’ll find the Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa miniatures, key chains and all types of trinkets at a very cheap price. 21 AL JAFILIYA
Need to unwind? Hop off Al Jafiliya Metro Station and spend a relaxing day at Zabeel Park (entrance at Dhs5). Zabeel Park also has a running track if you need to burn some calories. 22 WORLD TRADE CENTRE
The World Trade Centre is a venue for conferences, exhibits and concerts. The Metro is a convenient mode of transport for convention delegates from all parts of the globe. 23 EMIRATES TOWERS
Named after Emirates Towers, one of the iconic structures in the city that comprise a Jumeirah hotel, a shopping boulevard and fine-dining restaurants. 24 FINANCIAL CENTRE
Near Dubai International Financial Centre – full of art galleries, cafés, boutiques and restaurants. 25 BURJ KHALIFA / DUBAI MALL
Alight here for the tallest tower in the world, Burj Khalifa. Dubai Fountain, The Dubai Mall, The Dubai Aquarium and Souk Al Bahar. 31 FIRST GULF BANK
Just beside the station is the Gold and Diamond Park, a sophisticated counterpart to the famous Dubai Gold Souk. 32 MALL OF THE EMIRATES
Get off here for the mall and also Ski Dubai. The entrance fee to the Snow Park includes
SECRET TIP Use Road and Transport Authority’s Wojhati Service to plan your journey around Dubai. It helps determine the shortest and quickest route to your destination as well as the cost of the trip. Wojhati covers buses, water buses and Dubai Metro and includes interactive maps and a route plan. wojhati.rta.ae almost everything you need, from ski suit, snow boots, helmet and skis. 34 DUBAI INTERNET CITY
This is the nearest station to Palm Jumeirah. Take a cab to the Palm Monorail Gateway Station and get a train ticket to Atlantis. At Atlantis, visit the Lost Chambers, dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants or spend a day at Aquaventure. 36 DAMAC (DUBAI MARINA)
Shop at Dubai Marina Mall, go on a yacht cruise at Dubai Marina Yacht Club and dine at al fresco restaurants located on Marina Walk. 37 JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS
You can hop off the train in this station if you want to go the beach at The Walk, JBR. It take around 15-minutes to walk there. 39 IBN BATTUTA
Ibn Battuta is a shopping mall with six different themes - namely Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China. Each one is distinct and intricately designed.
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Map of Dubai ATLANTIS ATLANTIS
BURJ BURJ AL ARAB AL ARAB
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Gold Gold and and Diamond Diamond Park Park
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LEGEND: SHOPPING MALLS GOLF COURSES BEACHES ART GALLERIES
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DUBAI MAP
PORTPORT RASHID RASHID
Jumeirah Jumeirah BeachBeach Park Park
Mercato Mercato Mall Mall
jumeirah jumeirah OpenOpen BeachBeach
Town Town Pro Art Pro Art CentreCentre Gallery Gallery Jumeirah Jumeirah JUMEIRAH JUMEIRAH MOSQUE MOSQUE
AL FAHIDI AL FAHIDI HISTORICAL HISTORICAL DISTRICT DISTRICT
GOLD/ GOLD/ SPICE/SPICE/ TEXTILE TEXTILE SOUKSOUK
Burjuman Burjuman Centre Centre
The Archive The Archive
SAFA PARK SAFA PARK
Al Mamzar Al Mamzar BeachBeach
The Majlis The Majlis Gallery Gallery
Al Ghurair Al Ghurair Centre Centre
Emirates Emirates Towers Towers
The Dubai The Dubai Mall Mall
DIFCDIFC
HunarHunar Gallery Gallery
ZABEEL ZABEEL PARK PARK
Lamcy Lamcy PlazaPlaza
CreekCreek Park Park
DeiraDeira City City Centre Centre
WafiWafi Mall Mall
GARHOUD GARHOUD BRIDGE BRIDGE
Al Badia Al Badia Golf Club Golf Club
The Track The Track Golf Golf Course, Course, Meydan Meydan
Dubai Dubai Festival Festival City Mall City Mall
Meydan Meydan Racecourse Racecourse
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Dubai Dubai Equestrian Equestrian Centre Centre
Mirdif Mirdif City City Centre Centre
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Accommodating every need With over 600 hotel establishments and far more in the pipeline, Dubai can truly say it welcomes guests with open arms. Whether it’s a family looking to fulfill every member’s fancy; the businessman on a short or long stay; the couple wanting a romantic getaway or the group with an eye on partying, there’s a hotel that fits the bill no matter if they have deep pockets or are on a budget. And when it comes to location, there’s the choice of a city stay, a beachside resort or an eco retreat in the desert. The choice is yours. Almost every global hotel brand has a presence in this city, including of course the giants such as Hilton, 10 6
InterContinental and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. In fact, Starwood has 14 properties, the second largest concentration of the company’s hotels in a single city outside of New York. These global brands join the homegrown Emaar Hotels and Resorts, which launched in 2005 with the opening of its Address properties, followed in 2013 by its Vida boutique hotels. Of course, the most renowned Dubai–owned hotels belong to the Jumeirah Group, which has set the standards – not just in the region, but globally.
If you love shopping, stay at one of the hotels that enjoy direct links to Dubai’s most popular malls. For beach lovers, the options are endless with a host of luxury hotels covering the entire stretch of Dubai’s shoreline. If you’ve arrived in Dubai seeking to combine business and leisure, there is a vast array of city hotels to choose from. Featuring on the New York Times’ 2014 list of must–visit destinations, Dubai is one of the most popular holiday hotspots in the world – whether for families, couples, groups or business travellers. While many hotels cater to just one of those profiles, Dubai has several resorts that cater to the lot. Here in Dubai the customer is king and, as such, our hotels make perfect palaces.
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H O T EL S A N D S PA S
THE DESERT PALM RESORT
JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS
DUBAI’S SPLENDID STAYS Whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, there’s a hotel to suit, whether it be a shopping spree, golf getaway, city or beach break or desert adventure. Take your pick. CITY If you want to stay close to the action and wake up to amazing views of skyscrapers, The Address Downtown Dubai is the perfect choice. The world’s tallest hotel, the JW Marriott Marquis is based in Business Bay, the largest commercial district in the region. The hotel’s Tower 2 opened early 2014 bringing the total number of rooms to 1,608. Jumeirah Emirates Towers is one of the most recognized landmarks in Dubai. With luxury shopping at The Boulevard, some of the most stylish restaurants in town and close to Dubai’s top tourism attractions and business districts, the hotel has won many accolades including Top
25 Hotels in the UAE ‘2014 Travellers Choice Awards’ by TripAdvisor. New Dubai’s trendiest neighbourhood, Dubai Marina, is known for its vibrant social scene as well as the supercars that line its roads. With The Walk JBR, The Beach mall and the beach all within walking distance, this place is buzzing with activity all day and night. Dusit Residence Dubai Marina’s serviced apartments are perfect for families or couples on long stays. If you revel in art and culture, choose a hotel in Dubai’s Deira district, the city’s oldest commercial district. Opened in 1980 and backed by Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Hyatt Regency Dubai is
itself is a piece of history. While more glamorous nightspots and restaurants have mushroomed around the city, Hyatt’s Al Dawaar Restaurant – Dubai’s only revolving restaurant – remains one of the top dining spots in town. Hilton Dubai Creek rises on the banks of Dubai’s old trade route.
DESERT To truly immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscape, check into either of Dubai’s two luxurious options: the eco-resort of Al Maha Desert Resort with 42 suites with private pools, blending seamlessly into the desert dunes; or Bab al Shams Desert Resort and Spa, a fresh take on an old fortified Bedouin village, nestled in the sands, only a 45-minute drive from the city centre. The Desert Palm Resort is a refreshing alternative to the sandscapes. Thrilling sunset chukkas and breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline come together at this resort set within a lush polo estate. W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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ATLANTIS THE PALM
BY THE BEACH Wake up to a glorious sunrise over the Arabian Gulf at Burj Al Arab, repeatedly voted the world’s most luxurious hotel. The neighbouring Jumeirah Beach Hotel is often considered the ideal hotel for families. This hotel has the added advantages of a scuba diving centre and Sinbad’s Kids. For a dash of Ottoman opulence, head to the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah. At Atlantis The Palm, beach stays takes on new meaning – with the Aquaventure waterpark, Atlantis Dive Centre, Dolphin Bay, Nasimi Beach and The Lost Chambers, you’ll have a hard time finding time for the beach. Combining the ambience of a relaxed beach stay with the energy of a pulsating city are the Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa and Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort. Both hotels are in the vicinity of the vibrant Walk at JBR – Dubai’s only beachfront promenade of luxury retail shops and al fresco restaurants. Plus, JA Ocean View Hotel has picked up a number of awards since its opening phase in late 2013. TripAdvisor alone placed it among the ‘Top 25 Hotels for Exceptional Service’ and ‘Top 25 Hotels in the UAE for romance’.
FUTURE OPENINGS • Byblos Palm Jumeirah Hotel, 2015. • InterContinental Dubai Marina, January 2015. • The Langham, Palm Jumeirah, 2015. • Citymax Al Barsha, 2016. • Ibis Dubai World Trade Centre District, 2016. • Tonino Lamborghini Hotel, 2016. • Citymax Business Bay, 2017. • Westin Dubai, 2017. • The St. Regis Dubai, 2017.
MALL LINK
• The W Hotel, 2017.
The Address Dubai Mall is just a stone’s throw from The Dubai Mall while the Sheraton or Kempinski hotels sit inside the Mall of the Emirates. For shoppers at Ibn Battuta Mall, Mövenpick Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate is just across the road; Raffles Dubai sits beside Wafi Mall; and for those staying at the Park Hyatt Dubai or Pullman Dubai, the Deira City Centre mall is close by. Staying at The Address Dubai Marina gives you direct access to Dubai Marina Mall.
• Rotana Dubai Creek, 2017.
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• Rotana Al Barsha, 2018. • Rotana Wafi, 2018. • Bulgari Hotel, Jumeirah Bay Island Dubai, 2018.
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By Shangri-La
Located right in the heart of Dubai's most historic and culturally diverse area of Deira, Traders Hotel, Dubai is just 15 minutes away from the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, and the famous Musical Fountain of Dubai. The hotel offers 250 rooms and suites in contemporary Arabian design with complimentary wi-fi access, an all-day-dining restaurant, bar, chill-out lounge, in-door swimming pool, and Health Club. Complimentary shuttle service to Deira City Centre Shopping Mall and Al Mamzar Beach Park is also available.
Cnr. of Abu Baker Al Siddique and Salah Al Din Road, P. O. Box 81877 Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: (971) 4 265 9888 Fax: (971) 4 265 9777 Email: thdb@tradershotels.com Website: www.tradershotels.com http://www.facebook.com/tradershoteldubai
DTCM DUBAI Tourism Manual 2015 Size: 120mm H x 185mm W Option: 1
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GOLF COURSES For keen golfers it’s a toss-up between staying at the Park Hyatt Dubai on the grounds of the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City for the Al Badia Golf Club or at the boutique hotel The Address Montgomerie Dubai. To tee off at the Peter Harradine designed 9-hole, par 36 champion course, book your stay at Jebel Ali Golf Resort.
EXPANSION The Jumeirah Group is working on major developments along the stretch of beachfront between Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. When complete in 2016 it will offer to the public numerous lifestyle, dining and social areas. The project is called MJ4 - Madinat Jumeirah Phase 4. Its architecture will connect to the traditional nature of the architecture of Madinat Jumeirah with the more modern aspects of Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Burj Al Arab. Atlantis The Palm will undergo a $1.4billion expansion, which will see an 800-room property rise next to it in 2017. The building is a modern take on the Arabesque grandeur of the original Atlantis, on the crescent of The Palm and many rooms will feature private gardens and infinity pools in the sky, overlooking the ocean or The Palm. Also part of the development will be a “Sky Pool” 90m up above the Palm and a beach club at ground level. Untitled-1
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A DAY AT THE SPA Dubai has a flourishing spa culture. Talise Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray was named as the ‘UAE’s Leading Spa Resort’ by World Travel Awards (2011 & 2012) as well as the Best Spa by Conde Nast Traveller Middle East 2013. Its therapies harness the goodness of exotic ingredients like Amazonian plant extracts from the Himalayas. At the World Spa and Wellness Awards 2014, Atlantis’ ShuiQi Spa & Fitness took the prize for being the ‘Middle East’s Hotel Spa of the Year’. This awardwinning spa offers therapies designed by skin care gurus Clarins and Shiseido, plus medi-spa services from teeth whitening to botox. The Egyptian-themed Cleopatra Spa at Wafi City is celebrated for some of the most luxurious therapies in the city. Think rose petal milk and chocolate syrup baths, exotic date and wild honey infused exfoliations. Go pink and indulge in some posh pampering at Dubai’s first Hello Kitty Spa. Treatments focus on hair, nails and make-up. Perfect for mums and little ‘princesses’. Embark upon a journey of wellness that spans the globe. The Royal Spa at Rixos The Palm Dubai has an extensive list of therapies from Hawaiian Lomi Lomi to Balinese aromatherapy.
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THE LUXURY OF A HOTEL WITH THE COMFORTS OF HOME Enjoy panoramic views over the sparkling coastline and stunning cityscape at Fraser Suites Dubai. With award-winning service and extensive gold-standard facilities including swimming pools, steam & sauna, Kid’s Club, tennis & squash courts; conference rooms that can cater up to 200 delegates; relaxed dining in Aqua Café and the exclusive Awazen Spa - Fraser Suites Dubai has it all.
FRASER SUITES DUBAI - Sheikh Zayed Road, Media City, Dubai, UAE Reservations: +971 4 440 1400 Email: reservations.dubai@frasershospitality.com
Look us up. Wherever you are at m.frasershospitality.com
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5 STAR HOTELS Al Bustan Rotana Hotel rotana.com/albustanrotana Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana rotana.com/alghurairrayhaanbyrotana Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa al-maha.com Al Murooj Rotana Hotel rotana.com/almuroojrotana Amwaj Rotana Hotel and Resort rotana.com/amwajrotana Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa dubai-palm.anantara.com Armani Hotel Dubai armanihotels.com Asiana Hotel asianahoteldubai.com Atlantis Palm Jumeirah Hotel & Resort atlantisthepalm.com Auris Plaza Hotel Al Barsha auris-hotels.com Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa meydanhotels.com/babalshams Bonnington Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Tower bonningtontower.com Burj Al Arab burjalarab.com Conrad Dubai conraddubai.com Crowne Plaza Dubai ihg.com/crowneplaza Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City ihg.com/crowneplaza Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa dxbmarine.com Dusit Thani Dubai dusit.com/dusitthani/dubai Fairmont Hotel Dubai fairmont.com/Dubai Fairmont the Palm Hotel fairmont.com/Palm-Dubai Grand Hyatt Dubai dubai.grand.hyatt.com Grand Millennium Dubai grandmillenniumdubai.com Grosvenor House Dubai luxurycollection.com/grosvenorhouse Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa habtoorhotels.com Hilton Dubai Creek hilton.com/Dubai Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort hilton.com/jumeirah Hyatt Regency Dubai dubai.regency.hyatt.com InterContinental Dubai Festival City ihg.com/intercontinental Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa jaresortshotels.com Jumeirah Beach Hotel jumeirahbeachhotel.com Jumeirah Creekside Hotel Jumeirahcreeksidehotel.com 112
Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotels jumeirahemiratestowers.com Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeirahzabeelsaray.com JW Marriott Marquis Hotel marriott.com Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates kempinski.com Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah kempinski.com Le Meridien Dubai lemeridien-dubai.com Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina lemeridien-minaseyahi.com Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa lemeridien-dubai.com Madinat Jumeirah madinatjumeirah.com Media Rotana- Dubai rotana.com Meliá Dubai melia-dubai.com Metropolitan Palace Hotel metropolitanpalacedubaihotel.com Millennium Plaza Hotel millenniumhotels.ae Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai moevenpick-burdubai.com Moevenpick Hotel Deira moevenpick-deira.com Moevenpick Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai moevenpick-dubai-ibnbattuta.com Moevenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach moevenpick-jumeirahbeach.com One & Only Royal Mirage Dubai oneandonlyresorts.com One&Only, The Palm oneandonlyresorts.com Park Hyatt Dubai dubai.park.hyatt.com Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel parkregiskriskin.com Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre pullman-dubai-deiracitycentre.com Radisson Royal Hotel radissonblu.com/royalhotel-dubai Raffles Dubai raffles.com/dubai Rixos The Palm Dubai rixos.com Samaya Hotel Deira samayahotel.com Shangri-La Hotel Dubai shangri-la.com Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates sheratondubaimalloftheemirates.com Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Hotel sheratonjumeirahbeach.com Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach sofitel-dubai-jumeirahbeach.com Sofitel The Palm Hotel & Resort & Spa sofitel.com
Taj Palace Hotel – Dubai tajhotels.com The Address Downtown Dubai theaddress.com The Address Dubai Mall theaddress.com The Address Dubai Marina theaddress.com The Address Montgomerie Dubai theaddress.com The H Hotel h-hotel.com The Meydan Hotel meydanhotels.com The Oberoi oberoihotels.com The Palace Downtown Dubai theaddress.com The Ritz-Carlton Dubai ritzcarlton.com/dubai The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Center Hotel ritzcarlton.com/dubaiifc The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina westinminaseyahi.com
4 STAR HOTELS Abjar Grand Hotel abjargrand.ae Al Jawhara Gardens Hotel jawhara.ae Al Khaleej Palace Hotel alkhaleejpalace.net Al Manzil Hotel almanzilhotel.ae Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa arabiancourtyard.com Ascot Hotel ascothoteldubai.com Avari Dubai Hotel avari.com Avenue Hotel avenuehoteldubai.com Byblos Hotel bybloshoteldubai.com Capitol Hotel capitol-hotel.com Carlton Tower Hotel carltontower.net Cassells Al Barsha Hotel cassellsalbarshahotel.com City Seasons Hotel cityseasonshotel.com Copthorne Hotel Dubai millenniumhotels.ae/ copthornehoteldubai Coral Deira Hotel hmhhotelgroup.com/coral Cosmopolitan Hotel dubaicosmopolitan.com Courtyard by Marriott Green Community Dubai cydubaigreencommunity.com Delmon Palace Hotel delmonhotel.ae Dubai Marriott Harbor Hotel & Suites marriott.com
Emirates Concorde Hotel & Residence emiratesconcorde.com Emirates Grand Hotel emiratesgrandhotel.com Flora Grand Hotel florahospitality.com Fortune Boutique Hotel fortunegroupofhotels.com Fortune Grand Hotel fortune-hotels.net Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai fourpointsburdubai.com Four Points by Sheraton Downtown - Dubai fourpointsdowntowndubai.com Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road- Dubai fourpointssheikhzayedroad.com Gloria Hotel gloriahoteldubai.com Golden Tulip Hotel Al Barsha goldentulipalbarsha.com Grand Central Hotel grandcentralhoteldubai.com Grand Excelsior Hotel - Al Barsha grandexcelsior.ae Grand Excelsior Hotel Bur Dubai grandexcelsiorburdubai.com Hallmark Hotel hallmarkhotel.com Hatta Fort Hotel hattaforthotel.com Hilton Dubai The Walk Hotel hilton.com Holiday Inn Al Barsha Hotel hialbarshadubai.com Holiday Inn Bur Dubai Hotel holidayinn.com/burdubai Holiday Inn Downtown holidayinn.com Hues Boutique Hotel huesboutiquehotel.com Jumeira Rotana Hotel rotana.com/jumeirarotana JW Marriott Hotel jwmarriottdubai.com Landmark Grand Hotel landmarkhotels.net Landmark Riqqa Hotel landmarkriqqa.com Le Meridien Fairway lemeridien.com/fairway Lotus Hotel lotus-hospitality.com Majestic Hotel Tower Dubai dubaimajestic.com Marco Polo Hotel marcopolohotel.net Marina Byblos Hotel marinabybloshotel.com Media One Hotel mediaonehotel.com Mercure Gold Hotel mercure-gold-hotel-dubai.com Metropolitan Deira Hotel metropolitandeira.habtoorhotels.com
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P R PA G E
Qbara is a contemporary lifestyle restaurant, lounge & bar that embraces Middle Eastern cuisines and culture with a ground-breaking modern twist - enhanced by vibrant entertainment elements. Qbara since its launch added a stylish and exciting new highlight to Dubai’s increasingly sophisticated dining scene. The menu features passionately composed dishes inspired by the great Levant, Middle Eastern and Moroccan cuisines with a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients, the use of indigenous spices, contemporary cooking methods and careful presentation. The culinary vision is to set quintessentially authentic flavours into contemporary, modern context.
vernacular of traditional Middle Eastern cultural elements set in juxtaposition with a ultra-contemporary design philosophy. The venue’s interiors lavishly spread over two floors with a focal stage bar and a cozy restaurant area forming the ground floor and luxuriously comfortable lounge seating areas on an elevated multi-level balcony above. The architectural centre piece is a two-storey tall vertical installation of carved timber panels that also serve as a projection surface for visual art displays. The ambience is distinctly high-energy, fashionable & sophisticated yet casual and fun.
Qbara’s spectacular interiors have been conceived by award-winning Tokyo-based interior design Studio Glitt – Noriyoshi Muramatsu – who skillfully created a magical For reservations call 800-QBARA or +971 4 709 2500
Email reservations: reservations@qbara.ae W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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THRIFTY CORPORATE AD(H276mm & W210mm) .pdf
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Value, Trust & Convenience C
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CALL: 8004770 800701 Dubai & Northern Emirates Abu Dhabi & Al Ain
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D I R EC T O R Y
Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai millenniumhotels.ae/ millenniumdubai Montreal Hotel montrealhoteldubai.com Moscow Hotel moscowhoteldubai.com Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers moevenpick.com Novotel Deira City Centre novotel.com Novotel Dubai Al Barsha novotel.com Novotel World Trade Centre novotel.com Ocean View Hotel oceanviewthewalk.com Paragon Hotel paragonhoteluae.com Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaideiracreek Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City radissonblu.com/ hotel-dubaimediacity Radisson Blu Hotel, DownTown radissonblu.com/ hotel-dubaidowntown Ramada Chelsea Hotel Al Barsha ramadachelseadubai.com Ramada Deira Hotel ramadadeira.com Ramada Dubai Hotel ramadadubai.com Ramada Jumeirah Hotel ramadajumeirah.ae Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence Hotel ramadaplazajbr.com Ramee Rose Hotel rameehotels.com Ramee Royal Hotel rameehotels.com Regent Palace Hotel rameehotels.com Riviera Hotel rivierahotel-dubai.com Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Hotels rotana.com/roserayhaanbyrotana Royal Ascot Hotel royalascothotel-dubai.com Sea View Hotel seaviewhoteldubai.com Sheraton Deira Hotel & Towers sheratondeiradubai.com Suha City Hotel suhacitydubai.com The Country Club Hotel countryclubdubai.com Time Grand Plaza Hotel timegrandplazahotel.com Time Oak Hotel & Suites timeoakhotelandsuites.com Towers Rotana Hotel rotana.com/towersrotana
Traders Hotel by Shangri-La shangri-la.com/dubai/traders Vida Downtown Dubai vida-hotels.com
3 STAR HOTELS Admiral Plaza Hotel admiralplazahotel.com Al Khaleej Hotel alkhaleejhotel.ae Ambassador Hotel astamb.com Arabian Park Hotel arabianparkhotel.com Astoria Hotel astamb.com Benta Grand Hotel bentagrandhotel.com Broadway Hotel broadwayhoteldubai.com California Hotel californiahoteldubai.com Centro Al Barsha Hotel rotana.com/centrobarsha Chelsea Plaza Hotel chelseaplazahoteldubai.com City Star Hotel citystarhotel.ae Citymax Al Barsha citymaxhotels.com Citymax Bur Dubai citymaxhotels.com Claridge Hotel claridgehoteluae.com Comfort Inn Hotel hotelcomfortinn.com Copthorne Airport Hotel Branch millenniumhotels.com Corp Executive Al Khoory Hotel, Al Wasl corp-alkhoory.com Deira Town Hotel deiratown.com Desert Palm Hotel & Resort desertpalm.ae Dream Palace Hotel dreampalacehotel.ae Dubai Grand Hotel dubaigrandhotel.ae Dubai Palm Hotel dubaipalmhotel.com Dulf Hotel dulfhotels.com Ewa Hotel ewahoteldubai.com Fortune Pearl Hotel fortune-hotels.net Fortune Plaza Hotel fortunegroupofhotels.com Grandeur Hotel grandeurhotel.com Hawthorn Hotel & Suites hawthornsuitesdubai.com Howard Johnson Hotel hojo.com Ibis Hotel Al Barsha ibishotel.com
Imperial Suites Hotel imperialsuiteshotel.com Jonrad Hotel jonradhotel.com Karama Hotel fortunegroupofhotel.com Kings Park Hotel kingsparkhotel.com Landmark Hotel landmarkhotels.net Landmark Plaza Hotel landmarkhotels.net London Crown Hotel londoncrown.ae London Suites Hotel londonsuiteshotel.com Lords Hotel lordsgroupofhotel.com Mayfair Hotel mayfairdubai.ae Nihal Hotel nihalhoteldubai.ae Orchid Hotel orchidhoteldubai.net Palm Beach Hotel palmbeachburdubai.com Panorama Grand Hotel grand.panoramagrouphotels.com Premier Inn Dubai International Airport premierinn.ae Premier Inn Dubai Silicon Oasis Premierinn.ae Premier Inn Hotel Investment Park Premierinn.ae Rainbow Hotel rainbowhotel.ae Regal Plaza Hotel regalplazahoteldubai.net Regent Beach Resort rameehotels.com/ regent-beach-resort Sadaf Delmon Hotel Al Rigga delmonhotel.ae Sadaf Hotel sadafhotel.ae Sandras Inn Hotel sandrasinndubai.com Skylight Hotel skylight-hotel.com Smana Hotel riohoteldubai.com Smana Hotel Al Raffa riohoteldubai.com St. George Hotel stgeorgedubai.ae Suite Novotel Mall of the Emirates suitenovotel.com Sun & Sands Hotel sunandsanddubai.com Tulip Inn Hotel FZ tulipinnfzllc.com Versailles Hotel dubaiversailles.com York International Hotel yorkinternationalhoteldubai.com Zain International Hotel zaingrouphotels.com
HOTEL APARTMENTS Abidos Hotel Apartment Al Barsha abidosalbarsha.com Al Faris 3 Hotel Apartments alfarisdubai.com Al Ghurair Arjaan Rotana Hotel Apartments rotana.com Al Jawhara Hotel Apartment aljawhara.ae Al Manar Hotel Apartment almanarhotel.ae Al Murooj Rotana Suites rotana.com Al Nawras Hotel Apartments alnawrashotel.ae Arjaan Hotel Apartment, Dubai Media City rotana.com Belvedere Court Hotel Apartment belvederecourtdubai.com Burjuman Arjaan Hotel Apartments rotana.com Chelsea Gardens Hotel Apartments chelseagroupdubai.com Chelsea Tower Hotel Apartment chelseagroupdubai.com City Premiere Hotel Apartments citypremieredubai.com City Season Suites Dubai cityseasonsgroup.com Golden Tulip Al Thanyah (Formerly Comfort Inn Hotel Apartments) comfortinnha.com Coral Boutique Villas coralboutiquevillas.com Deira Suites Hotel Apartment deirasuites.com Desert Rose Hotel Apartment desertrosehotel.ae Donatello Hotel Apartments donatello-hoteldubai.com Dusit Residence Dubai Marina dusit.com Emirates Concorde Hotel & Residence emiratesconcorde.com Emirates Stars Hotel Apartments emiratesstars.ae Flora Creek Hotel Apartment florahospitality.com Flora Park Hotel Apartment florahospitality.com Fraser Suites Dubai frasershospitality.com Gloria Hotels gloriahoteldubai.com Golden Sands Hotel Apartments goldensandsdubai.com Grand Belle Vue Hotel bellevue-hotels.com Grand Hyatt Residence dubai.grand.hyatt.com Grand MidWest Express Hotel Apartment grandmidwest.com
W W W. D U B A I T O U R I S M . A E
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Grand MidWest Tower Hotel Apartments grandmidwest.com Intercontinental Residence Suite Dubai Festival City intercontinental.com/dubai Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah kempinski.com Lotus DownTown Metro Hotel Apartment LLC lotusdowntownmetro.com Lotus Grand Hotel Apartment lotus-hospitality.com Lotus Hotel Apartment & Spa, Dubai Marina lotus-hospitality.com Marina Hotel Apartment marinahotelapt.com Marina View Hotel Apartment marinaviewhotel.com Marriott Executive Apartment Dubai Creek (A) marriott.com Marriott Executive Apartment Dubai Creek (B) marriott.com Marriott Executive Apartments, Green Community meadubaigreencommunity.com Mรถvenpick Hotel Apartments The Square Dubai moevenpick-hotels.com/ dubai-thesqaure Oasis Beach Tower oasisbeachtower.com Park Hotel Apartments parkhotelapartments.com Pearl Coast Premier Hotel Apartment dusit.com Ramada Hotel Apartment, DownTown Burj Khalifa ramadadowntowndubai.com Royal Ascot Hotel Apartments royalascothotelaptdxb.com Savoy Crest Hotel Apartments savoydubai.com Savoy Suites Hotel Apartment savoydubai.com Star Metro Deira Hotel Apartments starmetrodeira.com Suha Hotel Apartments suha-hotel-apartments-dubai.com Taj Palace Hotel Dubai tajhotels.com Tamani Hotel Marina tamanimarina.ae Wafi Residence wafi.com/wafi-residence Xclusive Clover Hotel Apartments xclusivehotels.ae Xclusive Hotel Apartment xclusivehotels.ae Yasat Gloria Hotel Apartment yassatgloria.com 116
INBOUND TOUR OPERATORS 1001 Events Tourism LLC 1001events.com ABA Tourism LLC abatourismuae.com ABC Tourism LLC abctoursdubai.com Adonis Tourism LLC adonistourism.com Adventure Leisure Tourism LLC altdubai.com Afridi Travels & Tourism LLC atnt.ae Akbar Travels of India LLC akbartravels.ae Akkad Tours akkadtours.net Al Ahli Travel & Tourist Agency alahlitravel.com Al Canari Tourism LLC ctdubai.net Al Fanar Luxury Tour LLC alfanar.ae Al Faraena Tourism LLC alfaraenatours.com Al Futtaim Travel Co. LLC alfuttaimtravel.ae Al Ghaith & Al Moosa Travel Agency LLC alta-travel.ae Al Ghubaiba Tourism alghubaibatours.com Al Kazemi Tours LLC alkazemitours.ae Al Kazima Travel & Tourism alkazimatravel.com Al Majlis Tourism LLC almajlistourism.com Al Matroshi Travel & Tourism LLC almatroshitravels.com Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism Agencies LLC alnaboodahtravel.com Al Naeimi Tourism LLC ArabianMastiTours.com Al Reyami Travels & Tourism alreyamitravel.com Al Rostamani Travels Co. LLC alrostamanitravel.ae Al Tayer Travel Agency LLC altayer-travel.com Al Tayyar Travel & Tourism altayyargroup.com Alishba Travel & Tourism LLC alishbatourstravels.yolasite.com Arab Link Tourism LLC arablinkdubai.com Arabesque Tourism LLC arabesquetourism.net Arabia Horizons Tours LLC arabiahorizons.com Arabian Adventures arabian-adventures.com
Arabian Connection Tourism LLC arabianconnections.com Arabian Desert Tourism arabiandeserttours.ae Arabian Dream Tours LLC arabiandreamtours.ae Arabian Expedition Tourism LLC arabianexpedition.com Arabian Explorers Tourism LLC arabian-explorers.com Arabian Incentive arabianincentive.com Arabian Link Tourism arabianlinktours.com Arabian Nights Tours LLC arabiannightstours.com Arabian Oryx Travel & Tourism LLC aoryx.ae Arabian Team Adventures Travel & Tourism LLC arabianteamadventures.com Art Desert Tourism LLC artdesert.ae Asia Middle East Tours & Travel LLC asiatravel.com Asia Pacific Travels & Tourism LLC apttdubai.com Atlanta Travels LLC atlantadubai.com ATS Travel LLC travelats.com Avia Tourism LLC aviatoursdubai.com Avionics Travels & Holidays LLC avionicstravel.com Becker International Tourism LLC beckertravel.com Belhasa Global Tourism & Travel belhasaglobal.ae Best Dream Travel & Tourism LLC desertnightstourism.com Best Star Tourism LLC beststargroup.com Bin Sebaa Travel and Tourism and Hajj and Umrah binsebaa.ae Bon Tours bontours.com Bonton Tours and Travels LLC bontonholidays.com Bright Green Tourism LLC brightgreentourism.com Business Palace Travels & Tours LLC bp-travels.com Butterfly Tourism LLC butterflytourism.ae California Tourism LLC californiatoursdxb.com China Globalwide Travel & Tourism LLC dubaitour.com
Citalia Tours LLC citaliatours.com City One Tourism LLC cityonetours.com City Smart Tourism LLC citysmart.ae Clover Travel & Tourism LLC clovertourism.com Concord Travels & Tourism cttdubai.ae Connect World Travel & Tourism LLC connectworldtours.com Cooper Tourism LLC coopertourism.com Cosmos Tours LLC cosmosbookers.com Cox & Kings Tours LLC coxandkings.ae Dadabhai Travel LLC dadabhaitravel.ae Danat Al Khaleej Tourism LLC danatalkhaleej.ae Delta Travel & Holidays LLC delta.ae Desert Dreams Tourism LLC desertdreamtourism.com Desert Adventures Tourism LLC desertadventures.com Desert Breeze Tourism LLC desertbreezetourism.com Desert Dunes Tourism LLC ddtoursdubai.com Desert Gate Tourism LLC dubaidesertgate.com Desert Knight Tourism LLC desert-knight.com Desert Rangers Travel & Tourism LLC desertrangers.com Desert Road Tourism LLC desertroadtours.com Desert Rock Tourism LLC desertrocktours.com Desert Team Tourism LLC desertteam.me Diamond Wings Travel & Tourism LLC diamondwings.ae Dirham Tours LLC setifirst.com/DirhamTours Donvand Limited Showing (Gullivers Travel Associates) gta-travel.com Big Bus Tours LLC bigbustours.com Dream Adventure Tourism dream-dxb.com Dream Days Tourism LLC dreamdays.ae Dubai for Destination Tourism LLC d4d.ae Dubai Leisure Holidays LLC dubaileisureholidays.com Dubai Link Tours LLC dubailink.ae
D U B A I T O U R I S M G U I D E 2015
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East Avenue Travels & Tourism LLC eastavenuedubai.com
Front Line Tourism LLC frontlinetourism.com Fun Tours LLC funtoursdubai.com
East Europe Travel & Tourism LLC eet.ae
Galaxia Tours LLC galaxiadubai.com
East Sands Tourism LLC eastsandstourism.com
German Tourism germanrac.com
Eclipse Tourism LLC eclipsetourism.ae
Global Travel & Tourism LLC planetgrouponline.com
Elite Star Tourism LLC elitedubaidesertsafari.com
Golden Dragon Tourism LLC gdtdxb.com
Emeco Tourism LLC emeco.com
Golden Ocean Travels LLC gotemirates.com
Emirates Desert Tourism LLC edt.ae
Golden Phoenix Tourism LLC gpcodubai.com
Emirates Oasis Tourism LLC emiratesoasis.net
Golden Tourist for Travel & Tourism goldentourist.com
Extreme Adventure Tourism LLC adventure-dubai.com
Golden Way Tourism LLC goldenwaytourism.com
F.S.N Travel & Tour LLC fsn.ae
Green Oasis Tourism LLC dubaigot.com
Fairyland Tourism LLC ftctours.ae
Gulf Circle Tours LLC gulfcircletours.com
Falcon Oasis Tourism LLC falconoasis.com
Gulf Dunes LLC gulfdunes.com
Four Corners Events Tourism LLC 4corners-events.com
Gulf Sun Travel & Tourism gulfsuntours.com
Four Star Travels & Tourism LLC 4startravels.com
Gulf Ventures Tourism gulfventures.com
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Gulf Wings Travel gulfwings.ae Halley, S Comet Tourism LLC mytrip.ae Haryard Tours LLC haryardtours.com High Way Travel & Tourism LLC hwtourism.com Holiday Factory Package Tours LLC holiday-factory.com Hormuz 1 Tourism LLC hormuztourism.com Hunter Tourism LLC huntertourism.net IBEX Tours & Travel LLC ibextravel.ae Ideal Adventures Tours & Safaris LLC idealdubai.com Instant Travels & Tourism LLC instanttnt.com Inventive Connections www.incentiveconnections.com Jaas Tourism LLC jaastourism.com Kanoo Travel LLC kanootravel.com Kernel Tourism LLC nabatourism.com
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Khasab Tours khasabtours.com Knight Tourism knighttours.co.ae Lama Desert Tourism LLC lamadeserttours.com Lamar Holidays LLC lamarholidays.com Magic Tours For Tourism magictours.ae Meeting Point Tourism meetingpointuae.com Milan Tours LLC milantoursdubai.com Miles Tourism & Travel LLC milestt.com Miracle Adventure Tourism LLC miracle-adventure.com Mirage Adventures Tourism LLC mirage-tours.com Mohebi Aviation LLC mohebi.com Naresco Travel & Tourism LLC nttdubai.ae Nasa Tourism LLC nasa-tourism.com Net Tours & Travels LLC nettoursuae.ae Ninawa Tours LLC ninawatours.com Nisha Tourism LLC nishatours.com
galaxia tours opt1.pdf
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Galaxia Group is specialized in handling incentives, special/ Taylor made groups as well as individual / FIT operation. In order to deliver and exceed the needs of our clients, we set Galaxia offices in different destinations –either a full fladge office or representation bureau. Galaxia offices & representation Bureau worldwide are located in Egypt “Head office”, China, , Spain, , UAE, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Scandnavian countries, Latin America.
A: Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 265 6956 / 7 F: +971 4 265 6958 M: management@galaxiadubai.com W: www.galaxiadubai.com
A:Cairo - Egypt. T: +20 2 2414-4101 F: +20 2 2290-5979 M: mhassanein@galaxiagroup.com W: www.galaxiagroup.com
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D I R EC T O R Y
North Tours LLC north-tours.com Oasis Palm Tourism LLC opdubai.com Orient Tours LLC orienttours.ae Orient Voyage Tourism LLC orientvoyage.com Orion Tourism LLC oriontourism.com Phoenix Tour LLC phoenix-tour.com Planet Travels & Tours LLC planetgrouponline.com Professional Tourism pro-tours.com PTT Holidays LLC pttholidays.com R F K Holidays LLC rfkholidays.ae Rasan Tourism LLC emiratesvisaexpress.com Rayaan Tourism LLC rayyantours.com Rayana Tourism LLC raynatours.com Red Sand Tourism LLC redsandtourism.com Reddy Tourism LLC reddytourism.com
Remal Al Emarat Travel & Tourism LLC remaltour.ae Rida International Tourism & Travel LLC ridaint.ae Rimsha Travel & Tourism LLC rimshatourism.com Ritchmond Tourism Co. LLC richmond-tourism.com Royal Adventure Travel & Tourism LLC royaladventuretourism.com Royal Arabian Tours LLC royalarabian.com Royal Eagle Tourism LLC retdubai.com Royal Gulf Tourism LLC royalgulf.info Royal Palm Holidays rph-d.com Royal Park Tourism Services LLC royalpark.net Saadi Travel & Tourism LLC saaditourism.com Samir Tourism LLC samirtourismllc.com Sands Set Tourism & Travel LLC sandsset.ae
Satt Tourism & Travel satt-travel.com
Sun East Tourism LLC suneastholidays.com
Season Adventures Tourism LLC seasonadventures.com
Sun Flower Tours LLC sunflowerdubai.com
Seat Holidays Dubai LLC seatholidays.com Seawings LLC seawings.ae Sharaf Tours LLC sharaftravel.com Shehab travel & Tourism LLC shehabtraveltourism.com Sky Land Tourism LLC skylandtourism.com Sntta Emir Tours snttaemirtours.com South Travel & Tourism LLC southtravels.com Splendid Travel & Tourism LLC splendid-travel.com Star World Tours LLC estarholidays.com
Sun Land Tourism LLC sunland.ae Super Jet Tours LLC superjet.com Swiss Colour Tourism LLC swisscolourtourism.com Team Travel & Tours LLC team-travels.com The Royal Vision Tourism LLC royalvisionco.com The Vision Tourism thevisionme.com Tolo Travel & Tours LLC tolotravel.com Total Holidays LLC tholidays.com Travco LLC travco.com
Sun & Sand Tourism & Travel LLC sunandsandtours.com
Travelex Travels & Tours LLC travelex.ae
Sun & Sky Tourism & Travel LLC sunandskytravels.com
Trident Travel LLC rhsgroup.com
Sun City Tourism LLC suncitydubai.com
Triton Tourism LLC tritontourism.com
Car rental at its best. Your way, always. Europcar makes your car rental experience an unforgettable one. With easy online booking and short and long term rental options on the latest models of cars, this car rental experience is designed around you. Giving priority to your convenience. The reason why we offer FREE delivery and collection within Dubai city, the service of well-trained, experienced chauffeurs and state-of-the-art workshops all over. Come, rent happiness. • Leading global car rental company
• Short and long-term rental
• Online booking at www.europcardubai.com
• International car hire booking
• Professional travel agents and tour operators software
• ISO certified company
For booking please call: 00971 4 3381600 or reservations@europcar.ae For all other inquiries: mkt@europcar.ae
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Turan Tourism LLC turantour.com Twenty Four Degrees Tourism LLC 24degrees.com Universal Holidays LLC Universal-tourism.com Universal Travel & Tourism LLC universaltoursdubai.com Uranus Travel & Tours LLC uranustravel.com Urban Tourism LLC urbantoursllc.com Vega Tours LLC vegatours.com Vienna Tourism LLC viennatours-dubai.com Welcome Sky Travel and Tourism LLC desertsafaridxb.com White Sands Exotic Holidays LLC whitesandstours.ae Wind Rose Tourism LLC windrose.ae Wings Tours Gulf LLC wingsegypt.com Yahoo Tours LLC yahootourism.com
AIRLINES Air Algerie airalgerie.dz Air Arabia airarabia.com Air Canada aircanada.com Air France airfrance.com Air India airindia.in Alitalia alitalia.com American Airlines aa.com Ariana Afghan Airlines flyariana.com Austrian Airlines austrian.com Azerbaijan Airlines azal.az Bangladesh Biman Airlines biman-airlines.com British Airways britishairways.com Cargolux Airlines International cargolux.com Cathay Pacific Airways cathaypacific.com/ae Cyprus Airways cyprusairways.com
Czech Airlines csa.cz
Kish Airline kishairline.com
Daallo Airlines daallo.com
Korean Airlines koreanair.com
Delta Airlines delta.com
Kuwait Airways kuwait-airways.com
Egypt Air egyptair.com
Lufthansa German Airlines lufthansa.com
Emirates Airline emirates.com
Middle East Airlines mea.com.lb
Ethiopian Airlines ethiopianairlines.com
Mihin Lanka Air mihinlanka.com
Etihad Airllines etihadairways.com
Oman Air omanair.com
Eva Air evaair.com
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) piac.com.pk
Finnair finair.com Fly Dubai flydubai.com
Planet Tours (Uzbekistan Ailines Agent) planetgrouponline.com
Gulf Air gulfair.com
Qantas Airways qantas.com
Iran Air iranair.com
Qatar Airways qatarairways.com
Jazeera Airways jazeeraairways.com
Royal Air Maroc royalairmaroc.com
Jet Airways jetairways.com
Royal Brunei Airlines flyroyalbrunei.com
Kenya Airways kenya-airways.com
Royal Jordanian rj.com
Memorable moments in the UAE. For over 25 years, we have been among the UAE’s leading Destination Management Companies with a flair for offering unique experiences and bespoke events for individuals, groups and MICE. Call us. We have the expertise to help you make the most of your time in the UAE.
SNTTA Emir Tours, P.O Box 8845, Liberty building, Al Garhoud Road, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: +971 4 2865758 / 2821908, Fax: +971 4 2865859 / 2865430 Email: tours@snttadubai.com; www.snttaemirtours.com A member of the UAE-based Liberty Group
Picture: Rabia Oasis – Our exclusive, authentic Arabian oasis in the UAE.
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D I R EC T O R Y
Saudi Arabia Airlines saudiairlines.com
Al Falasi Car Rental alfalasiluxury.com
Dollar Rent-a-Car dollaruae.com
Majestic Rent-a-Car majesticrentacar.ae
Shaheen Air International shaheenair.com
Al Ghazal Car Rental alghazalcar-rental.com
Dubai VIP Limo LLC dubaiviplimo.com
Marvelous Rent Car ajeebuae.com
Singapore Airlines singaporeair.com/gulf
Al Naseem Rent-a-Car alnaseembusrentaluae.com
East Coast Rent-a-Car eastcoastinternational.com
Parklane Limousines LLC parklanerental.com
South African Airways flysaa.com
Alamo Car Rental alamo-me.com
Elite Rent-a-Car elitecarrentalsuae.com
Sri Lankan Airlines srilankan.com
Arab Link LLC arablinkdubai.com
Syrian Arab Airlines syriaair.com
Auto Assist Rent-a-Car aa-rentacar.com
Europe Car International Rent-a-Car LLC europcardubai.com
Patriot Rent-a-Car patriotuae.com
Tarom Airlines tarom.ro
Autobahn Car Rental autobahnuae.com
Thai Airways thaiairways.com
Avis UAE Rent-a-Car avis.ae
Tunis Air tunisair.com Turkish Airlines turkishairlines.com US Airways usairways.com Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. virgin-atlantic.com Yemen Airways yemenia.com
Badri Car Rental LLC shahzadagroupuae.com Basri Buses Rental LLC basritransport.com Bravo Luxury Car Rentals bravorentacardubai.com Budget Rent-a-Car budget-uae.com
CAR RENTALS
Car Fare Bus Rental LLC carfarellc.com
Advantage Car Rental acr.ae
Diamondlease Rent-a-Car diamondlease.com
EuroStar Rent-A-Car eurostarrental.com Fast Rent-a-Car fastuae.com
Premier Limousines & Leasing premierdubai.ae Safari Al Emarat Rent-a-Car ug-safari.com Sana Rent-a-Car sanarac.com
Fast Rent-a-Car (Airport Branch) fastuae.com Gargash Rent-a-Car gargashme.com German Rent-a-Car germanrac.com
National Car Rental national-ae.com Sixt Rent-a-Car sixt-uae.com
Ghusia Rent-a-Car indigojlt.com
Super Price Rent-a-Car LLC superprice-dubai.com
Golden Cars Rent-a-Car goldencarrentacar.com
Tauruscar tauruscar.com
Hertz Rent-a-Car hertz.ae
Thrifty Car Rental thriftyuae.com
Jumeirah Rent-a-Car jumeirarentacar.com
United Car Rentals unitedcarrentals.com
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Going places in the UAE? When it comes to getting more value for money, there’s just one name – Budget. Whether it is short-term rental, lease or international reservations, you can be assured of the quality of service that has earned us the vote as ‘Leading Car Rental Company in the UAE.’
For Reservations: Toll-free: 800 2722 (24 Hrs.) Abu Dhabi: +971 2 443 8430 Dubai: +971 4 884 0022 Jebel Ali: +971 4 881 1445 Sharjah: +971 6 533 7777 Ras Al Khaimah: +971 7 244 6666 Fujairah: +971 9 222 0172 Al Ain: +971 3 746 0989
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Email: reservations@budget-uae.com or book on-line at www.budget-uae.com
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ABU DHABI • DUBAI • SHARJAH • RAS AL KHAIMAH • FUJAIRAH • AL AIN Budget is an ISO 9001 certified company and a member of the UAE-based Liberty Group.
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DTCM OVERSEAS OFFICES AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
Level 14, Suites 5 & 6, 3 Spring Street, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia Tel: +61 2 9956 6620 Email: dtcm_aus@dubaitourism.ae
BRAZIL
Av. Ipiranga, 318 Bloco A5 Andar CEP 01046-010, Sao Paulo, Brazil Tel: +55 11 3214 7500 dtcm_brazil@dubaitourism.ae
CHINA
BEIJING OFFICE Lido Office Bldg, Room 412, 6 Jiang Tai Road, Chao Yang, Beijing, 100004 Tel: +86 10 5979 2062 Email: dtcm_beijing@dubaitourism.ae GUANGZHOU OFFICE Room 2412, South Tower, Guangzhou World Trade Centre Huan Shi Dong Road, Guangzhou, 510095 Tel: +86 20 8760 7815 Email: dtcm_guangzhou@dubaitourism.ae
SHANGHAI OFFICE Room 1512, Shui On Plaza, No. 333, Huai Hai Road, Shanghai, 200021 Tel: +86 21 5528 6900 Email: dtcm_shanghai@dubaitourism.ae CHENGDU OFFICE Room 1603B, Tower 1, Plaza Central, No.8, Shuncheng Dajie, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610016 Tel: +86 28 6132 6793 Email: dtcm_chengu@dubaitourism.ae
FAR EAST
10/F Oxford House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong Tel: +85 22 827 5221 Email: dtcm_hk@dubaitourism.ae
FRANCE AND BENELUX
38, Avenue des Champs Elysées, 75008 Paris - France Tel: +33 1 4495 8500 Email: dtcm-france@dubai.fr
GERMANY
Bockenheimer Landstrasse 23, D-60325 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
PO Box 594, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 282 1111 Email: info@dubaitourism.ae Website: dubaitourism.ae
Tel: +49 69 710 0020 Email: dtcm_ge@dubaitourism.ae
Tel: +74 95 980 0717 Email: dtcm_cis@dubaitourism.ae
INDIA
KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
1104 Arcadia, 11th floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400 021, India Tel: +91 22 2282 8836/ 2282 8837 Email: dtcm_in@dubaitourism.ae
ITALY
Via Aristide De Togni, 23 20123, Milan, Italy Tel: +39 02 8738 8132 Email: dtcm_it@dubaitourism.ae
JAPAN
International Place, 4th floor Sanei-cho 26-3, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0008, Japan Tel: +81 3 5367 5450 Email: dtcm_ja@dubaitourism.ae
NORDIC COUNTRIES
St - Eriksgatan 75, PO Box 12152, 113 32 Stockholm, Sweden Tel: +46 8411 1135 Email: dtcm_sca@dubaitourism.ae
NORTH AMERICA
215 Park Avenue South, 10th floor, New York 10003, USA Tel: +12 12 725 0707 Email: dtcm_usa@dubaitourism.ae
RUSSIA, CIS & BALTIC STATES
2, 8th floor, 10 Building, Letnikovskaya Street, 115114, Moscow, Russia
JEDDAH Suite 206, Saudi Business Centre, 1 Maddina Road, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Tel: +96 61 2652 4283 Email: dtcm_ksa@dubaitourism.ae RIYADH 255 Olaya Street, Al Nemer Centre, Office 311, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +96 61 1216 6680 Email: riyadh@dubaitourism.ae
SOUTH AFRICA
Ground floor, Bryanston Gate Block 4. Corner Curzon & Main Road, Bryanston PO Box 7 Rivonoa 2128 Johannesburg, Tel: +27 11 702 9600 Email: dtcm_sa@dubaitourism.ae
SWITZERLAND AND AUSTRIA F&W Communications Hinterer Schermen 29, CH - 3063, Ittigen Ber, Switzerland Tel: +41 31 924 7599 Email: dtcm_ch@dubaitourism.ae
UK & IRELAND
4th floor Nuffield House 41-46 Piccadilly London, W1J 0DS, United Kingdom Tel: +44 20 7321 6110 Email: dtcm_uk@dubaitourism.ae
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What does great service mean to you?
Providing professional, friendly service is our most valuable asset - it’s what sets us apart and it’s what makes you feel special every time you interact with us.
Call us toll free on: Dubai Abu Dhabi
800 3031 800 3130
Whether you need one car or a fleet of vehicles for your company, you can rely on us to take care of all your car rental and leasing requirements across the UAE.
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