september
/
october
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november 2014
Let the Games Begin world class sport events from now until march
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sound of music The world’s top bands head to Dubai
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on the menu
A guide to the best brunches in town
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city of gold
There’s no better place to buy jewellery
published by motivate
senior assignments editor
SEP 2014 – NOV 2014
senior art director
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ingrid valles po
victor mingovits
regional manager rami rahman rami@motivate.ae
general manager john deykin for dtcm
director of communications charlie taylor ctaylor@ dubaitourism.ae
director of media and advertising moza al youha myouha@ dubaitourism.ae
chief editor
kerry baggott kbaggott@ dubaitourism.ae
overseas offices
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dtcm china (guangzhou)
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music
sport
This September marks not only the advent of cooler climes in Dubai but also an enviable line-up of music festival and concerts by the world’s top talents
From racing tracks to rugby pitches, tennis courts to golf courses, Dubai has some thrilling playgrounds to get your heart rate up and racing
39 55 food
shopping
Just as the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab are global icons of Dubai, so is the brunch — sumptuous buffets are offered every Friday in Dubai’s top restaurants
Dubai is one of the few places in the world where people come for ‘gold tourism’ enjoying low prices, guaranteed purity, and a large selection of designs
dtcm china (shanghai)
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france and benelux
dtcm-france@ dubai.fr
germany
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hong kong
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31 34 46 50
outdoor
sport
indulge
business
Get a unique perspective on Dubai — take to the skies for an aerial view
Dubai is the playground for some of the most coveted wheels in the world
Find out why the world’s leading cruise companies are beating a path to Dubai
Meet some of Dubai’s talented and successful businesswomen
elsewhere
4 Calendar This season’s events revealed. Got your tickets? 6 new and now New outposts, offerings and openings 8 about town Keep up with what’s on and what’s in 10 Explore Dubai Marina and all that it offers 15 VOICE Dubai through the eyes of its creative residents 16 #myDubai Candid moments captured in the emirate 61 corporate News from the DTCM
south africa
66 a look ahead plan your next three months
switzerland and austria
ON THE COVER Illustration by Scott Sosebee
dtcm_sa@ dubaitourism.ae dtcm_ch@ dubaitourism.ae
u.k. and ireland dtcm_uk@ dubaitourism.ae
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september
Dubai’s got a date to die for this September - Lady Gaga is coming to town. Come September 10, the pop princess will bring her artrave: the artpop ball tour to the grand Meydan Racecourse. The gig marks the star’s Middle East debut.
disney on ice is synonymous around the world for one of the best entertainment experiences for families. This fantastic show is coming to Dubai from September 10-13, with
a never-seen-before version. Delighting over 30 million people over 75 countries, it is an inimitable and unforgettable musical and dance extravaganza on ice. The show will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre .
Head to the Hamdan Sports Complex to witness professional swimmers make waves in the 4th emirates cup on September 27. The 25m race enjoys the participation of both junior and senior swimmers from across the globe.
Dubai’s music mania continues with Patrick Bruel, renowned French musician, arriving here for his world tour. The patrick bruel world tour takes place on September 18 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Patrick will be joined on stage by half a dozen other musicians, performing his top hits such as Casser la viox, Marre de cette nana, Mon amour de St Jean and Qui a le droit. the world classical music series organised by the Dubai Concert Committee in conjunction with M Premiere makes a comeback this September. The series includes a list of exclusive concerts performed by internationally-acclaimed musicians. The soothing notes of the Alliage Saxophone Quintet – among the top ensembles in Germany and around Europe – set the ball rolling on September 18 at the swish One and Only Royal Mirage Hotel.
Gadgets and gizmos galore, gitex shopper is one of Dubai’ s most awaited shopping fests. Featuring the latest in technology, communication and entertainment products, GITEX Shopper is the time to buy the hottest new cell phones, laptops, cameras, televisions and much more. Exciting deals, bundle offers and amazing raffles are all part of the extravaganza that runs from September 27 to October 4 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
november The dubai pre-owned boat show makes sure that sailing is no longer a pastime for just the deep pocketed. The show is perfect for those just starting their ‘boating career’ and don’t want to make too big an investment without
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compromising on quality. The Pre-Owned Boat Show displays boats of all sizes ranging from entry level 20 to 30 feet range all the way to 65+ feet. Whether you are a serious buyer, window shopping or just looking for a fun day out, do head to the Dubai
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Creek Golf & Yacht Club from November 13-15. The $8 million dp world tour championship dubai is the grand finale of The Race to Dubai, a season-long competition that spans 46 tournaments
october Start the month with tips and techniques to get fitter faster at the dubai fitness & performance classic being held at Dubai World Trade Centre from October 1-4. The event will have a massive showcase of all fitness-related products. See the world’s top ranking IFBB body builders battle it out for the coveted ‘Mr. Olympia’ title followed by another five competitions for both men and women. Launch into a more dynamic and positive life with the help of world-renowned hypnotherapist Paul McKenna, an internationally-famous hypnotherapist recognised by The Times as one of “The world’s most important modern self-help gurus”. change your life in two days workshops on October 3 and 4 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Touted as the region’s premiere lifestyle show, big boys toys is a heady collection of some of the fastest, sleekest and, of course, most expensive gadgets and vehicles from around the globe. This year’s show is aiming to be bigger and better than the last edition, which included super cool products like colour-changing Hummers, a luxury 4x4 RV, with enough space at the back
to hold quad bikes and other off-road essentials, the world’s fastest GTR and the ‘Dragonfly DF1’ Tip Jet Helicopter. Big Boys Toys takes place at Burj Park, Downtown Dubai from October 3-5. It’s time for cultural festivities once again as eid in dubai opens in the city on October 4. Marking the Islamic festival of Eid Al Adha, the celebration includes shopping discounts, raffles, a variety of activities for families and children and the unmissable mega fireworks display each evening by the historic Dubai Creek. The biggest global technology brands will congregate at Dubai World Trade Centre for gitex technology week running from October 12-16. Year after year, the event has served as a gateway for global brands to access the Middle East. Over 1,000 media outlets from around the world gather at this annual event, which has been running for over 32 years. Continuing its endeavours to bring the best classical music talents to the city, this time the world classical music series presents Arsha Kaviani in concert. The Dubai-born prodigy has been playing the piano since he was six and has been a soloist with
the Qatar Philharmonic and Istanbul Symphony Orchestra and more. Kaviani has been noted as a ‘rising star’ by the Royal College of Music. Hear his melodious performance at the One and Only Royal Mirage Hotel on October 16. The 20th International Symposium on Electronic Art (ISEA) is in town from October 30 to November 8. An important annual academic media-art event, ISEA showcases creative productions that apply new technologies in interactive and digital media. Don’t miss the many exhibitions, performances and community events held at Al Serkal Avenue, DIFC and other galleries and public spaces across Dubai between November 2-6. There’s no better way to usher in Dubai’s cooler months than to dance the night away at sensation. After enthralling millions of people in over 30 countries, Sensation’s Source of Light show is making its first trip to the Middle East on October 31 at the Meydan Racecourse. Previous Sensation events around the world have featured the likes of Paul Van Dyk, David Guetta, Tiësto, Armin van Buuren and Swedish House Mafia.
november in 25 destinations across five continents on the 2014 European Tour International Schedule. The Race to Dubai winner receives The Harry Vardon Trophy (first awarded in 1937), US$1,000,000 and a seven-year European Tour Card exemption. Witness the
thrilling action at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 20-23. The UAE’s top national swimmers will be diving into the massive pool at the Hamdan Sports Complex for the h.h. uae president’s cup.
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For the past two decades the championship has been popular with local clubs seeing Emirati swimmers of all ages competing. The competition takes place in two parts; the first runs from November 21-22 and then on November 28-29.
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eat
sleep
new and now Residents on Palm Jumeirah’s East crescent have a new neighbour – the stylish sofitel dubai the palm resort & spa . The Polynesian island themed resort’s gorgeous rooms and villas sprawl across a long private sun-kissed beach. Choose a different cuisine each night at the hotel’s 15 Flavours from the Levant, Morocco and the Middle East just got more alluring thanks to qbara – the latest Arabesque restaurant in Dubai. Located in the grand Wafi Leisure Complex,
café culture
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An assortment of new cafés have swung open their doors in Dubai. From authentic patisseries to quintessential tearooms, let’s take a look
business travellers in the city. Its proximity to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa means that busy professionals can squeeze in a little shopping and sightseeing too. Half a dozen restaurants serving Spanish, Moroccan, Lebanese and pan-Asian cuisines form Warwick’s culinary offerings. www.warwickhotels.com
restaurants, bars and lounges. Head to the luxuriant So Spa to soothe away all aches. www.sofitel.com Within walking distance of DIFC and with the Financial Centre metro station at its doorstep, warwick hotel dubai will find much appreciation among
the restaurant has a variety of seating options. Choose from the Almaz Lounge, Majlis, Babel Room or Bar. It also helps that the food is great. The Egyptian-style pigeon has us hooked. www.qbara.ae cosy House of Pao: Debuting on the Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, this Brazilian café serves simple yet wholesome Latin bites. Try the pao de classic, baked
Vegans rejoice.
bestro , Dubai’s
first all-vegan, all-raw concept restaurant has just opened its doors at Galeries Lafayette. The menu is short but an interesting mix of spaghetti,
fresh and piping hot. However, it is the desserts that truly bring out the Brazilian flair. Think avocado crème brulee topped with caramelized sugar or Brazilian-
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pizza, noodles and Asian curries – all of which are gluten and sugar-free. Bestro recently added vegan chocolate bars, organic herbal teas and a lip smacking cannelloni to its menu. bestrouae
style French toast flavoured with cinnamon and coconut. 04 442 8028 casual Lounge Café Italiano: If you are in Dubai Media
City, Lounge Café Italiano is a good place to break for lunch. On the menu are plenty of Italian classics, some revamped with a creative flair. The pastas and pizzas
eat
sleep
There’s a flow of new outposts, openings and offerings making their way to Dubai. Here’s just a sample selection.
The opening of the first four seasons resort dubai , in November, at
Jumeirah Beach has us excited. This will be the company’s first venture in the country and promises opulent guestrooms, various activities for families, immaculate business services and indulgent Lebanese food takes over Dubai’s business centre DIFC with new restaurant nay setting up shop there. Chef Elie Georges Ltief impresses with the hot and cold mezze, charcoal grills, seafood,
café culture
are fresh and served without making diners wait too long. But what really stand out are the salads, especially the sesame and honey coated tuna loin and the seafood with zucchini
spa treats. Four Seasons also expects to make a culinary splash with its ten bespoke dining venues. www.fourseasons.com The massive Madinat Jumeirah is giving guests another reason to stay after undergoing major renovations. The newly refurbished rooms
salads and desserts. The hammour with black olives, mashed potatoes and lemon butter sauce is divine. www.nay restaurant.ae No prizes for guessing what’s salad. The refreshing fruit salad with gelato can be a healthy treat for special occasions. www.lounge cafeitaliano.com chic Bystro: The latest addition to
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at mina a’salam showcase a modern yet oppulent Arabia while the complex’s trademark Pierchic – touted as Dubai’s most romantic restaurant – incorporates a tantalising new menu. The enhancements also include the launch of traditional restaurant Smokehouse. www.jumeirah.com
on the menu at
eggspectation ,
the new outlet at The Beach, JBR. Though the menu is dominated by eggs in a variety of styles, there are plenty of other options too, such as flatbreads,
Dubai’s new wave of urban-gourmet cafés, Bystro serves a choice selection of breakfast and daytime dishes. The huevos rancheros (literally rancher’s eggs,
salads, pastas and even burgers. The fluffy French toast, made from brioche, stuffed with Nutella and melted marshmallows is highly recommended. www.eggspect ation.com
served with tomato salsa, refried beans, rice and cheese) are worth a try. But it is the pastry counter that is the crowning jewel here. Think cakes,
tarts, stuffed and flavoured pastries, as well as Italianstyle dolci bites. Bystro also sells a full range of sauces, syrups, preserves and pickles. bystrodubai
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miraj centre
sk8factory
moonwater yoga
bounce inc
about town learn: To fly an aircraft Flying your own aircraft isn’t a dream anymore. ipilot lets you play captain in its Boeing 737 and Airbus A380 simulators. The fully-enclosed cockpits create an immersion experience and you can take off and land at any of the 24,000 airports around the world. www.flyipilot.ae
discover: Marine Life It’s the perfect time of the year to dive into the deep blue Arabian Sea and discover its colourful and exotic marine life. Head to ambassador lagoon for an amazing snorkelling session as you explore the lost city of atlantis, under the guidance of trained experts. Discover interesting facts about
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the local species that inhabit the largest open-air marine exhibit in the Middle East and learn what the marine experts are doing to help protect the oceans. www.atlantisthepalm.com
buy: Islamic Art the miraj islamic art centre is committed to the cause of nurturing and preserving a legacy of art blended with culture. It stocks some of Islam’s most exquisite contributions to art: jewelencrusted ceremonial objects from Turkey; Kashmiri hand-woven carpets; finely-crafted weapons from Damascus; gold painted ceramics of China and delicate miniatures depicting religious and literary themes. www.mirajislamicartcentre.com
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surf house snorkelling
ipilot
blue bar
From shopping and gastronomy to entertainment and the arts, Dubai is brimming with cultural experiences. Take a look at what’s on offer. experience: Moonwater Yoga
compete: Skate
moonwater yoga combines relaxing meditation and pranayama breathing with Hatha-style brisk flow yoga to increase heat in the body, aid metabolism and kickstart the detox process. It’s a combination of relaxing Moon Yoga and energising Water Yoga. Book your session today at surf house dubai. Suitable for mums-to-be too. moonwateryoga@yahoo.com
Love skating and cooler temperatures? Try the indoor skate park at sk8factory. It’s got ramps aplenty as well as foam pits for skate boarders, scooters, BMX and inline skaters with different sessions catering to different skill levels and sports. www.sk8factorydubai.com
discover: Jumping
listen: Live Jazz blue bar is the go-to place on Thursday nights for aficionados craving authentic jazz and blues music. It is known for its exceptional food and beverage menu. On weeknights, TV screens play a variety of music. bluebarnovotelwtc
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Akin to a massive indoor trampoline, bounce inc takes the humble act of jumping to a whole new level. Feel the giddy euphoria as you bounce off over 100 interconnected trampolines punctuated with 500 m2 of padding and foam to land on. A fantastic way to exercise and keep fit. www.bounce.ae
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The city’s first purpose-built waterfront development, dubai marina is a favourite haunt for its vibrant mix of cafés, restaurants and shopping. With a buzzing promenade, and the recently-opened foodie paradise Pier 7, it’s clearly a popular social hub. sleep 1
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Amwaj Rotana
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Experience some of the best views in Dubai. Savour amazing food or stave off the fat at the hotel’s sophisticated gym or refreshing outdoor pool. www.rotana.com 2 The Address, Dubai Marina
the length of landscaped public walkways
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the number of retail shops in the Dubai Marina Mall
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Go posh at London import Geales Dubai. Choose from the fishmonger bar, select a cooking method and sauce or salsa and watch the skilled chefs work their magic. Open for dinner only. www.geales-dubai.com
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metres2 the total area covered by the Marina Quay residential complex over the water
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Wingsters
Buffalo wings take centre stage here - fried or grilled with a choice of 17 sauces to smother them in. You are sure to get hooked! www.wingstersuae.com
120,000
414 metres
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Dhow Cruise
Navigate the waterways of the Marina on board a traditional Arabian dhow. Live performances add a punch to the proceedings. Continental buffet dinners are served on board.
the approximate number of residents who live in the high-rises and villas along the Marina
the height of Princess Tower in Dubai Marina, which holds the record for the world’s tallest residential tower
Dragon Boating
Develop team spirit and personal fitness as you compete in the exciting sport of dragon boat racing. Free lessons are held on Saturday afternoons. www.dubaiflyingdragons.com 2
The Address stands right in the heart of the Marina. Its haute Mazina lounge, direct link to the Marina Mall and Pier 7 and close vicinity to the Yacht Club earn it brownie points. www.theaddress.com
7km
Geales
discover
2003 the year in which Dubai Marina’s man-made canal was built by Emaar Properties
4 km
the length of Dubai Marina
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In the pipeline: Dubai Tram
Phase one of the Dubai Tram system opens in November 2014 and will have 11 stations from Dubai Marina to Al Sufouh. Phase two opens in November 2015 and will extend to the Mall of the Emirates. In 2013 HH Sheikh Mohammed officially
unveiled the designs for the interiors of the trains and of the stations, and plans were made to up the tempo of the development of the Dubai Tram. The RTA and Serco have recently started testing the trams in order for the first phase to be operational this November. The tram will
sleep 3 The RitzCarlton, Dubai
Ritz-Carlton ticks all the boxes for a stay straight out of Arabian nights. Amaseena is one of the city’s popular stops for Arabic bites. www.ritzcarlton.com
Ramada Plaza JBR
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Known for its familyfriendliness, the Ramada Plaza is a collection of suites and apartments with separate living areas and equipped kitchens. Ideal for families on a long staycation. www.ramadaplaza.com
Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites 5
If you’re travelling with young children, the plush two-and three- bedroom suites are sure to please you. A fully-fitted kitchenette and separate living room promise a comfortable and convenient stay. www.marriott.com
JA Ocean View Hotel
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JA is good for those on a longer holiday. Several interconnecting rooms are available for families. Step outside the front door onto the new public beach and bustling Jumeirah Beach Walk. www.jaresortshotels.com
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run for 20 hours a day from 5am until 1am and will transport residents and tourists around some of the city’s most popular restaurants and attractions. The tramway runs through Jumeirah Beach Residence and two routes lead up to the elevated section that runs
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S’wich
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The humble Arabic shawarma sandwich goes gourmet here and all ingredients including the meats are organic. Those off carbs can opt for a lettuce or rocca wrap. www.myswich.com
Pier 7
Pier 7 has been creating waves in epicurean circles since it opened its classy doors in the past year. Find these stellar restaurants here:
Fümé
Enjoy Asian and European fare from the menu. The highlight is the meat and seafood smoked inhouse. www.fume-eatery.com
Abd el Wahab The Fisherman
Succulent Lebanese cuisine with the added bonus of specialty seafood. abdelwahabuae
along the Sheikh Zayed Road side of the Dubai Marina. 11 stations run from the marina along Al Sufouh past Knowledge Village, which makes up the first phase. Phase two will link up with the Palm Monorail and the Dubai Metro station at the Mall of the Emirates.
Dubai Marina Walk
Take to the 7km Marina Walk that runs around Dubai Marina. It’s peppered with a lively mix of waterfront cafés, bistros and boutiques. You’ll also see some of Dubai’s fanciest yachts and sleek speedboats moored here. 4
The Walk - JBR
This vibrant avenue is the heart and soul of Dubai Marina, known for the hip crowds that walk its cobbled paths and luxury cars and super-bikes that zoom through JBR. There’s plenty more to do here:
Sand Sculptures
Awe-inspiring sand sculptures by Australian Jenny Rossen, representing all of Dubai’s mostloved landmarks, are the favourite muse of many holiday makers.
Street Shopping
Tacos, nachos, quesadillas and fajitas are the highlights. www.ocactiuae.com
Vintage accessories, hand-made gifts, fair-trade goods, art and photography are the highlights of the open market at The Walk. Don’t forget to bargain!
The Scene
Exotic Cars
O’Cacti
From late lunches to late nights, this elite eatery is ideal for every kind of social occasion. The kitchen serves contemporary classics and Retro British eats each day from 10am – 2am. 4-front.net
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Known for the stunning supercars that cruise through it each weekend, The Walk is a car lover’s paradise. Be awestruck as sleek Maseratis, Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Bugatis roll past the bustling boulevard.
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enjoy Dubai leave the rest to us
SM
Whether you are here on business for weeks, months or years; or on holiday with the family, Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence offers a wide selection of studios and apartments to suit every taste and requirement. Ramada Plaza Jumeirah Beach Residence
P.O.Box 118555, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 439 8888 Fax: +971 4 439 8889 info@ramadaplazajbr.com, www.ramadaplazajbr.com
Whizzing around town with Shaikha My most recent find in Dubai was Bounce. It’s a great place to have fun with friends and family. The giggles just don’t stop. bounce.ae
For boutique shopping at its best head to Saks Fifth Avenue, Harvey Nichols, Bloomingdales and Galeries Lafayette.
The last art gallery I visited was Opera Gallery at DIFC.
A myth about Emirati women I would like to dispel is that they cannot make a difference in society and that they are not hard working and ambitious.
For quiet time I would head to Bab Al Shams or the Jebel Ali Golf Resort. jaresorts hotels.com
shaikha eissa, founder of SHE Burger and Dubai’s own burger queen broke through stereotypes when she launched her own kiosk at the Dubai Food Carnival this year. While Shaikha cooked the burgers herself, her Emirati friends served them. Here Shaikha reveals her favourite Dubai haunts.
v o i c e
start your day by delving into history and culture. Start at the Gold Souk of Murshid from where you can move on to the Dubai Women’s Museum and the historical Shindagha quarter. if i only had 24 hours to explore dubai I would begin my adventure at the Gold Souk. After treating myself to some beautiful jewellery I would take the abra to the other side of the Creek and stroll through the spice and carpet bazaars. For lunch and some designer shopping, I would head to the Dubai Mall. Early evening is a great time to soak up Dubai’s magnificent skyline from At the Top, Burj Khalifa’s observatory on the 124th floor. Since I am there, tea at At.mosphere becomes inevitable. There’s no better place than Jumeirah Beach to watch a spectacular sunset. For a taste of Dubai’s nightlife I would stroll down Mohammed bin Rashid boulevard and then have dinner at any one of the fashionable restaurants there. i would stay at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa. This luxurious property puts you right in the heart of the desert and its hospitality remains true to authentic Emirati culture. an unforgettable place i have visited in Dubai is the Burj Al Arab. show off by taking guests for a dinner cruise on-board the elegant Bateaux Dubai. The night views of the city’s skyline are mesmerising and their food is lip-smacking too. most people don’t know this but Barbecue Doughnut is a perfect choice for a memorable lunch, dinner, or afternoon tea. she burger broke away from convention on many fronts at the dubai food festival. how was that experience? The Festival was a very challenging experience. It is something I called ‘the real feel’ because it was my first experience in operating live while interacting with people. The marketing aspect was a lot of fun and a learning experience too. It helped me define what SHE Burger is and created an identity for itself in the market.
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aptitude
In Dubai without a holiday itinerary? Check out our favourite free apps to help you navigate your way around this 24-hour city
ilingual A fun way to learn and speak Arabic. Available on iPhone devices and Android
mparking Pay for parking via your cellphone. Available on iPhone devices and Android
al ameen service This bilingual app from Dubai Police helps you to report anything unusual in your locality. Available on iPhone devices and Android
dha Dubai Health Authority app lets you find and book a doctor’s appointment at government hospitals. Available on iPhone devices and Android
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@abdullalbuqaish
@ashehk
@mr _ andysmith
#MyDubai
Since the launch of the initiative by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, to create the world’s first autobiography of a city, over one million residents and visitors of the emirate have used the hashtag MyDubai. Here are some of our favourite posts. Join in and share your stories by posting to #MyDubai on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
@swaairah
@hamadbinahmed
@muneerarts @swaairah
@alikurdi _ photography
@sultanalrubaiy
@mohdzohair
@freezeflowmedia
@luluhay @kbinhendi
@kimox
@denis _ r _ li @sirklleb
@khalid _ sl
@yacobahli
Sound of Music an enviable line-up of music festivals and concerts by some of the world’s top musical talents
dubai has a glittering reputation for hosting music’s greatest talents – teen heart throb Justin Beiber, classic rock legend Eric Clapton, rock star Bryan Adams, R&B star Usher and pop queen Katy Perry being just some of the names that have graced the city’s stages. One of the most connected cities in the world, world-class performance venues, luxurious hotels, and of course, great weather make Dubai a successful music magnet for both performers and fans. Take for instance the Sandance fest held at Atlantis The Palm. The event attracts over 10,000 music lovers with many flying in not only for great music but also a luxury-infused stay at one of Dubai’s most iconic properties. Atlantis offers guests a great package giving them value for their money and a memorable holiday experience. This September marks not only the advent of cooler climes in Dubai but also the time when music takes over the city with electrifying music concerts and performances, right through to May. The party gets going with Lady Gaga’s ArtRave: The Art Pop Ball tour, followed by the spectacular Dubai Music Week. This event, which brings the world music industry together, serves as a forerunner to a deluge of music events and concerts: Sandance, RedFestDXB, Dubai Jazz Festival, Rock Fest, Blended and the Gulf Music Fest. Read on to know more.
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rita ora, redfestdxb
joss stone, blended
james blunt, emirates airline dubai jazz festival
Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival
The Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival, held around February, covers all genres of jazz music as diverse as blues, funk, swing, acid, rock, contemporary, modern and fusion. Since its inception 11 years ago, the festival has evolved to cover every music style imaginable. Its Jazz Garden and new Jazz World concepts have helped make the festival a huge hit with the masses. Jazz World is a spin-off street entertainment and presents free concerts bringing jazz to those who wouldn’t usually hear it. Past editions of the eight-day event have included performances by Olly Murs, Deep Purple, One Republic, The Script, James Blunt and Jamie Cullum among others. The jazz fest is held at Festival Park at Dubai Festival City. www.dubaijazzfest.com 20
Blended
So named due to its eclectic lineup of blues, roots, jazz, soul and funk, Blended is another music festival that has taken Dubai by storm. Debuting this year in May, the launch festival featured mega stars such as Aloe Blacc, Xavier Rudd, Joss Stone, Elvis Costello and Diana Krall. The two-day event also saw upscale food and drink outlets cropping up, serving picnic-style meals at the outdoor Dubai Media City Amphitheatre venue.
RedFestDXB
Taking inspiration from some of the world’s biggest music acts, RedFestDXB features the hottest new music presented through live acts over two days. RedFestDXB’s first edition held in February featured 25 live acts across three stages. The line-up was eclectic, playing everything d u b a i
from pop, RnB, rock and even Indie. Each evening some of the city’s best DJs took control of the decks for electrifying after-concert parties. The Red Bull Music Academy is also a part of RedFestDXB showcasing home-grown talent and Emirati music pioneers. RedFestDXB is held at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, a picturesque outdoor venue that has hosted legends like Alicia Keys, The Stone Roses and Bruno Mars. www.redfestdxb.com
Gulf Music Festival
Launched in collaboration with the Brownbook magazine and curator Neil van der Linden (of the Gulf Art Guide), the Gulf Music Festival focuses on progressive Arabic and other Middle-Eastern pop and crossover music. It brings to light the sound of
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the Middle East with an array of traditional styles of play such as gnawa and oud, as well as a multitude of fusions inspired by soul, jazz, rock and Latin music. A highlight on underground contemporary Middle Eastern musicians within the region, the fest’s first edition featured artists like Jordanian musician Kamal Musallam, Morocco’s new rising singer OUM and the first performance of Zeid Hamdan (founder of Soap Kills and Zeid and the Wings and formerly of The New Government) with Maii Waleed. Happening in March 2015.
Dubai Rock Fest
Nine hours of pure heavy metal by some of the world’s best rockers make Dubai Rock a must-attend. The 2013 edition was headlined by Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen. Dark Tranquility
from Sweden, Nightmare from France, Myrath from Tunisia, The Sanity Days from the UK and the UAE’s very own Anuryzm completed the lineup. For 2014, The Heavy Metal Monsters (Nightmare) were back in town with a new album release after an unforgettable show in 2013 supported by French pioneers Loudblast, UAE’s No 1 Thrash metal band Nervecell and Indian band Demonic Resurrection - winners of the Metal Hammer Golden God award.
Sandance
This massive music fest on the most popular sands in Dubai – Nasimi Beach at Atlantis The Palm – draws in throngs of music lovers year after year. The mega gigs have seen talents like Jamiroquai, Roger Sanchez, Rita Ora, Ellie Goulding, Pet Shop Boys, Fatboy d u b a i
Slim, The Killers, Of Monsters and Men among others. The likes of Dizzee Rascal, Snow Patrol and Calvin Harris have helped it to grow to the point where it now regularly sells out its 10,000 tickets. The regular Sandance festivals are also a big hit with international visitors with many flying in just for the concerts or timing their holidays to coincide with it. Ravini Perera, senior vice president at Atlantis The Palm, which hosts the event, says Sandance has brought crowds of 44 nationalities from countries including China, Indonesia, the UK and even Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic. This year Sandance returns to the city for two more packed events before the year draws to a close. Scheduled on October 10 and November 14, the lineup for both events is yet to be announced. www.sandance.ae 21
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Concerts to die for If you’re in Dubai this winter, plan your trip around these mega concerts that guarantee to get the city rocking. go gaga September 10 2014, meydan racecourse
lady gaga
Pop princess Lady Gaga is bringing her ArtRave tour to town on September 10. This will be the global superstar’s first Middle East concert and is set to attract fans from across the region and beyond. The five-time Grammy Award winner’s show has been specially tailored for Dubai and is expected to send waves around town. The 28-year-old New Yorker’s ArtRave: The Artpop Ball tour kicked off in Florida earlier this year, treating fans to tracks from her latest album, Artpop, which topped the charts in both the UK and the US in November last year. Being held at the iconic Meydan Racecourse (renowned for hosting the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup), Gaga’s concert will feature – like they always do – crazy costumes and elaborate productions, and promises fans a blast of all her hits. Tickets start at Dhs495 at www.ticketmaster.ae
one direction april 4 2015, the sevens stadium
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The world’s biggest boy band, One Direction is making its Middle East debut in Dubai next year. April 4 marks the English-Irish band’s Dubai performance, which is a part of their On The Road Again Tour. Tickets begin at Dhs250. A supplementary special fan package is priced at Dhs1,000, in addition to the price of a separate ticket – in any section – to the show. This includes a unique One Direction watch, an iPhone pouch and access to a fan enclosure at the event with unlimited soft drinks and a “chill-out” area. Tickets can be purchased at the Virgin Megastore in Mall of the Emirates or online at www.doneevents.com
melody makers Last year Dubai debuted its very own music festival titled Dubai Music Week. Headlined by heavy weights like will.i.am and Timbaland, the event was a runaway success. It brought the global music industry - artists, managers, promoters, publicists, record labels and the broader media industry – to the emirate making the event nothing short of a trailblazer. Dubai Music Week is expected to return to the city shortly. For more information log on to www.dubaimusicweek.ae
Likewise, the Dubai Concert Committee (DCC) regularly brings some of the world’s most renowned classical musicians to the city under the Classical Music Series initiative. From soloists to chamber orchestras, the World Classical Music Series includes a list of exclusive concerts performed by internationally acclaimed musicians. This year, the Alliage Saxophone Quintet and hugely talented Arsha Kaviani join the DCC’s performer portfolio. See Dubai Calendar for concert details.
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anked the second best sporting city in the world at the Seventh International Sports Event Management Awards in London last November, Dubai’s sporting circuits are no strangers to champions. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic have all served at the Dubai Tennis Stadium; Rory Mcllroy and Tiger Woods have both lifted the Omega Dubai Desert Classic trophy; Tom Daley dived from the boards at the FINA World Swimming Championships; the world’s top cricketers batted in Dubai as part of the IPL season. Perhaps Dubai’s most renowned championship is the Dubai World Cup – the world’s richest horse race – where the world’s most prized thoroughbred horses are the sporting stars. Apart from being superlative action-packed events, these also function as the biggest and most glamorous social occasions of the year. When the world’s sporting legends have succumbed to the playing fields in Dubai, there can be no reason for lesser mortals to stay away. Winter is steadily approaching, the stars are on their way, the venues are all spruced up and the fashionistas have their outfits ready. Are you prepared to spring into action?
Race to Dubai Spanning five continents, the exciting Race to Dubai championship brings the golfing world d u b a i
together like no other tournament. From the curtain raiser of the South African Open Championship to the final DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, the championship which is part of the European Tour International Schedule presents 12 months of enthralling tournament action featuring 48 tournaments in 26 countries worldwide. With free entry, this is a great opportunity to see the top 60 golfers on the European Tour including world top 10 players Henrik Stenson, Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose. The European Tour’s richest prize, it offers a US$8million prize fund for the DP World Tour Championship plus a US$5million Bonus Pool for The Race to Dubai. date: November 20 – 23, 2014 venue: Jumeirah Golf Estates www.europeantour.com
Dubai International Parachuting Championships We always knew that the sky was the limit when it came to sports in Dubai. The Dubai International Parachuting Championship is evidence of that. Each year over a 1,000 jumpers from 43 countries take to the Emirate’s skies to compete for a total prize bounty in excess of Dhs1.5 million. The competition is intense, with France, Russia and US competing hard for top honours in five categories: Accuracy Landing, Formation Skydiving, Canopy Formation, Artist 25
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events and canopy piloting. Last year, Dubai also hosted the FAI World Parachuting Championships graced by Felix Baumgartner; the closing ceremony included electrifying performances by pop stars Katy Perry and Usher. date: Usually in November. venue: Skydive Dubai, Palm Jumeirah www.dipc.ae
Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens High-octane action, adrenalinecharged crowds, carnival-like ambience and spell-binding entertainment in a sleek purposebuilt venue: the Dubai Rugby Sevens is all this and much more.
dubai tennis stadium The annual rugby celebration is a three-day event attracting fans from around the world. Serving as the second round of the HSBC Sevens World Series and opening round of the IRB Women’s Sevens World Series, the play is of the highest quality. Some 16 top international teams compete for the men’s trophy, while 12 teams battle it out for the women’s championship. The invitation-only tournament enhances the global flavour with over 200 teams participating including local teams, veterans, youth and women. Apart from being a highly anticipated sporting event each year, the Dubai Rugby Sevens is a much-loved social
Just Do It There’s proof aplenty that Dubai is definitely the place in which to get sporty. While global championships are best left to the pros, the city affords ample opportunity for amateur sportsmen to test their endurance and skills.
johnson arabia dubai creek striders half marathon Clement December temperatures, roads that meander through Dubai’s best-loved landmarks, this half marathon is frequently titled the ‘most beautiful marathon in the world’. Each year, over 2,000 runners blaze off the sleek Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, head towards
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event too. From family fun to fancy dress, the event has something for everyone. The Rugby Rock concerts are hugely popular and have crowds dancing into the wee hours. date: December 4 - 6, 2014 venue: The Sevens Stadium www.dubairugby7s.com
Dubai Tour Taylor Phinney, Marcel Kittel, Mark Cavendish, Rui Costa, Joaquin Rodrigues and Fabian Cancellara showed the world a new way to see Dubai when they pedalled at top speed through the city’s roads in February 2014. This four-day event saw Dubai make its debut on the International Cycling
the Garhoud Bridge and, having crested the top, run down into the lush Creek Park. The Dhow Wharfages, Shindagha Tunnel, Heritage Village and Ruler’s Court are all enroute. Having sampled the delights of the breathtaking route, all runners are duly rewarded with a hearty breakfast at QDs at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, all included within the entry fee. when? December 5, 2014 register: www.dubaicreekstriders.org
spinneys dubai 92 cycle challenge The largest amateur cycling challenge in the Middle East, the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge is one of the region’s fastest growing sporting events. The Challenge
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Union’s (UCI) racing calendar and was the opening race of the UCI’s Asia Tour bringing the world’s top racers to the emirate. Riders from 16 teams – 11 UCI ProTeams, the top three teams of the UCI Asia Tour, the UAE national team and the Dubai Skydive team, each with eight riders – battled across four stages and 417.9 kilometres for the prestigious blue jersey and a generous prize purse. date: February 4 - 7, 2015 (provisional) venue: Locations across Dubai www.dubaitour.com
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships Named as the best ATP 500 event for 10 consecutive years, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships welcome the world’s best tennis players to the Dubai Tennis Stadium each year. This year marked the 22nd anniversary of the tournament with a stellar line-up featuring five of the top 10 men in world tennis — Juan Martin Del Potro, Tomas Berdych and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, reigning champion Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. Federer walked away with the title – his sixth at the tournament. The women’s tournament featured defending champion and 2011
Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova, 2012 Dubai champion Agnieszka Radwanska, along with former world number ones Caroline Wozniacki, Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Jankovic. The player lineup for 2015 will be announced soon. date: February to March 2015 venue: Dubai Tennis Stadium www.dubaidutyfree tennischampionships.com
Dubai World Cup Dubai’s racing season kicks off with the glamorous ‘Racing at Meydan’, a showcase of eight race meetings spread over November to March, which serve as a stepping stone to the World Cup. As it winds to a close, the Dubai World Cup Carnival fires off. Comprising a series of 11 highly-competitive races, it attracts the world’s best horses, jockeys and trainers to the Meydan Racecourse. The DWCC is regarded as the dress rehearsal for the glittering finale of the season’s horse races, the Dubai World Cup, the ‘world’s richest day in horse racing’ with a total prize money of US$29,250 million. The final race is worth US$10 million. Apart from the intense action on the race track, the Dubai World Cup is just as popular for its inherent glamour. The Jaguar
promotes fitness for all in Dubai and now attracts cyclists of all abilities keen to test themselves over 92 km around the famous landmarks and iconic buildings of Dubai – Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and Burj Al Arab among others. when? Usually in December. register: www.cyclechallenge.ae
standard chartered dubai marathon This marathon lets amateur runners choose to run the full marathon or 10kms, alongside top runners in the world. 2014 marked the 10th anniversary of the run, with over 100,923 runners pounding the streets of the city. There’s also a 3km fun run. Whether you choose
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meydan Style Stakes spur fashionistas into donning their most stylish wear including hats and fascinators that range from designer chic to outright outrageous. The gents too queue up to make their name in the sartorial hall of fame. The races come coupled with hospitality packages brimming with luxury – VIP lounges serve delectable meals and the finest drinks to the city’s jet set. However nothing beats the euphoria created at the electrifying post-race concerts that have been headlined by icons such as Jennifer Lopez, Seal and Toni Braxton. date: March 28, 2015 venue: Meydan www.dubaiworldcup.com
to take to the the tracks or just stand back and cheer, the Dubai Marathon is a memorable event. when? January 23, 2015 register: www.dubaimarathon.org
wild wadi swim burj al arab At this event you get to swim in Dubai’s crystal waters around the iconic Burj Al Arab and in return you raise funds for charity! The annual swim is held to raise funds for Medecins sans Frontieres and is split into two sections – a 1,600-metre race for the more serious competitors, and an 800-metre social swim. when? Usually in January/ February. To Be Announced register: www.premieronline.com
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Omega Dubai Desert Classic
dubai desert classic
HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup An ensemble of the world’s best endurance riders vie for honours at the gruelling Endurance Cup organised and hosted by the Dubai Equestrian Club. A highlight of the endurance racing calendar, the championship attracts some of the top riders in the world. More than 15 countries took to the race track in the Cup’s last edition which included the UAE, UK, India, Bahrain, France, Italy and the US among others. UAE rider Rashid bin Dalmouk Al Maktoum emerged as the winner. date:Usually in January. venue: Dubai Equestrian Club www.dubaiequestrianclub.ae
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Champions like Rory McIlroy, Ernie Els, Tiger Woods, Colin Montgomerie and Stephen Gallacher have teed off on the lush fairways, undulating sands and rolling greens of the Majlis course at the Emirates Golf Club as part of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. This event is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ on the European Tour. The $2.5 million tournament, promoted and organised by Golf in Dubai, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2014 and saw all former champions – with the great Seve Ballesteros represented by his son, Javier – descend on the Majlis course to mark the special occasion. In the words of George O’Grady, European PGA chief: “The modern day Omega Dubai Desert Classic is simply one of the world’s greatest golf tournaments which consistently attracts the planet’s greatest players to one of the great modern courses”. date: January 26 to February 1, 2015 venue: Emirates Golf Club www.dubaidesert classic.com
Take to the Skies Looking for a new perspective on Dubai? Try a bird’s eye view. back in April 2014 two veteran dare devils entered the Guinness Book of World Records for the highest BASE jump when they jumped 828m from the very pinnacle of the world’s tallest tower – the Burj Khalifa. With his two feet firmly on the ground, one of the jumpers, Fred Fugen, said: “This was a jump of a lifetime and my best jump by far. It was a dream come true”. Indeed, Dubai is fast gaining a reputation for its airborne activities. Perhaps jumping 13,000ft out of a plane above Palm Jumeirah takes your
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fancy – after all, it’s often described as one of “the best drop zones in the world”? However, even if you’re not a dare devil, there’s no need to miss out on the remarkable bird’s eye views of Dubai’s city skyline. From the leather seats of a seaplane you too can soar like a falcon around the Burj Khalifa; or perhaps explore by helicopter, parasail or even float graciously above the desert in a hot air balloon. Here’s a rundown of how you can take to our cloudless skies.
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640 jumps
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Felix Baumgartner achieved the highest parachute jump in history and the fastest freefall by breaking the speed of sound in 2012
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the age of the oldest tandem skydiver
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the most tandem jumps in 24 hours
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The sea and sky come together to create an adventure like no other. Take off from the crystal waters of the Arabian Sea in a luxurious seaplane, make a gentle ascent towards the sky and then sit back and soak in the wonders of Dubai. Seawings’ various tours are designed around the best of Dubai’s landmarks and attractions, each offering a different perspective of the city. Watch the past play out as you swoop over the historical Dubai Creek still bustling with abras, dhows and spice souks. Present-day wonders – the Burj Khalifa, World Islands and Burj Al Arab – are the focus of the Jebel Ali tour, while the Al Maha retreat tour is definitely for the discerning traveller. It starts with an idyllic drive in a luxurious limousine to the grand resort where an amphibian aircraft awaits. All the tours are carried out in comfortable Cessna Caravan seaplanes. www.seawings.ae
he licopt er tour s With millions of people jetting across the globe for business and personal travel, an air flight doesn’t seem so novel any more. If you love flying but are looking for something more thrilling, a Dubai helicopter tour is a must. Apart from the incredible sights you will encounter, the ride itself is an exhilarating one. HeliDubai’s Night Lights Tour has us in complete raptures. Illuminated at night, the city’s stunning skyline and glistening vistas of Meydan, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands are sure to leave you awe-struck. Helidubai even offers heritage tours that explore the city’s historical sites while their Explorer tours showcase modern Dubai. Scenic helicopter tours can also be arranged by Alpha tours www.alphatoursdubai.com, one of Dubai’s leading tourism companies. www.helidubai.com
The ceiling’s the limit •
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falling records
828.2 metres Fred Fugen and Vince Reffet set the world record for the highest BASE jump from a building in 2014 by jumping from Dubai’s Burj Khalifa
skyd i ve dubai If you like your views to be coupled with raging adrenaline rushes, Skydive Dubai is the place for you. Close to Dubai’s famed man-made archipelago, the Palm Jumeirah, Skydive Dubai is the city’s only sky diving service provider. The free fall here lasts for around a minute, rewarding divers with breath-taking views of the Palm, the World Islands, Dubai Marina and Burj Al Arab. Choose from single, tandem or group jumps in a 260,000m2 drop zone area. Plummeting towards the ground at 201 kilometres per hour may sound nerve-wrecking but it’s assuring to know that Skydive operates under the regulations of the International Air Sport Federation (FAI). The centre also employs some of the most accomplished and experienced trainers, all accredited by the USPA (United States Parachuting Association) internationally and EAA ( Emirates Aviation Association) nationally. The Skydive Dubai school offers training in Accelerated Free Fall Training, AFF and A-D Licenses and Sigma Tandem Instructor courses. www.skydivedubai.ae
If jumping out a plane and plummeting through the sky seems a little extreme, try indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai. iFly’s 10 metre tall, double-vertical wind tunnels - the first in the world - raise flyers three metres into the air letting them experience all the thrills of sky diving indoors! iFly’s professional instructors ensure a thrilling diving experience for both beginners and seasoned professionals. www.theplaymania.com
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b a lloon a dve n t ures Waking before sunrise is well worth the effort when the picturesque Arabian Desert unfolds below you. Sweeping stretches of golden sand interspersed with majestic dunes, emerald oases and mountains of red rock are truly a sight to behold. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape into the desert or a memorable family adventure, Balloon Adventures’ panoramic sky excursions are ideal for everyone. The company’s pilots are thorough professionals with over 60 years of combined flying experience. The company is licensed by the General Civil Aviation Authority and all balloons undergo a stringent maintenance and testing programme. Balloon Adventures offers a complimentary pick-up for guests from their hotels and other central meeting points in Dubai. Guests are then whisked to the desert campus in the midst of the Arabian Desert from where an epic journey of discovery begins. www.ballooning.ae
pa ra sa i li n g Seen the Arabian Desert? Now it’s time to be introduced to the Arabian Sea and its striking coastline. A parasailing experience in Dubai yields inspiring views of the endless ocean from the heights of the sky. Towed by a boat, a para-sailor is fitted with a specially-designed parachute that lets them ascend 200m above the sea, allowing uninterrupted views of the ocean and the land beyond. Completely safe, parasailing is perfect for everyone – children too. A number of Dubai’s hotels and tour operators offer parasailing. Prominent among them are the Hiltonia Beach Club at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort www3.hilton.com, Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa www.grandjumeirah.habtoorhotels.com and Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort. www.sheratonjumeirahbeach.com
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Get Your Motor Running
The fastest, the most expensive, the latest and the most luxurious: Dubai is the playground for some of the most coveted wheels in the world.
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rriving in Dubai, it’s crystal clear as soon as you walk out of the airport: the city is car mad. Some of the world’s flashiest cars, zooming past on the city’s gleaming tar, are a common sight. Audi, BMW, Rolls Royce and Mercedes are just the tip of the iceberg. Maseratis, Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Bugatis are commonplace here too. With more than 1 million registered vehicles serving a 1.9 million population, Dubai has one car for every two residents. A high standard of living, immaculate roads, economical fuel prices and a tax-free economy are all highly conducive to Dubai’s passion for cars. Cruising down the Sheikh Zayed Road or strolling down the chic Dubai Marina, the city’s love for luxury wheels is obvious. The arterial highway is flanked with an uninterrupted row of car showrooms, while the trendy Marina neighbourhood serves as a stage for the emirate’s hottest wheels each weekend. Whether you
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own an expensive ride and want to flaunt it or are just a fan of luxury wheels, these are places to see and of course, be seen in. It’s noteworthy that the city’s fancy car frenzy is not just limited to high-net-worth individuals. The luxury car trend has embraced the civic authorities too. Dubai Police boasts one of the most luxurious super-fleets in the world including beauties such as McLaren MP412C, Bentley, Mercedes and Ferrari. The luxury sports car fleet of the Dubai Police also has Lamborghini Aventador, Nissan, Bugatti, Volkswagen, Chevrolet Camaro and BMW. It’s interesting to note that Dubai Police operates the rare Dhs11 million Aston Martin One-77, of which there are only seven in the world. The vehicles are stationed in the vicinity of important attractions such as Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Burj Al Arab, Sheikh Mohammed Boulevard and other places frequented by tourists.
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Desert driving: Learn the Basics Emirates Driving School and Explorer Tours Dubai offer desert driving courses that cover basics such as knowledge of a 4x4, topography of the desert, essential equipment and a series of gruelling sessions charging over the Arabian Desert’s dunes. www.ediuae.com www.explorer tours.ae Desert Rangers Dubai offers desert driving courses along with a variety of desert and wadi adventures. www.desert rangers.com Dune bashing and desert buggies are a common part of most desert safari packages. The most popular operators are Alpha Tours www.alpha toursdubai.com and Lama Tours www.lama.ae Most car rentals offer 4x4 vehicles for rent. Check their off-road driving policies before making a deal. Offroad-zone is a popular choice for 4x4 hires. Visit www.offroadzone.com for details. Dune bikes and buggies can be hired from www.goldendesertdubai.com The Dubai Offroaders group regularly conducts excursions into the desert and wadis. Log on to www.dubai offroaders. com for further details.
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dubai motor festival
With such a strong penchant for luxury wheels, it comes as no surprise that Dubai has its own festival dedicated to cars. The biennial Dubai Motor Festival is a spectacular collection of the world’s best vehicles. Bringing the global automotive industry to town, the festival includes the sensational Dubai International Motor Show, Red Bull Car Park Drift and Dubai Grand Parade. The fest unfailingly attracts motoring enthusiasts both locally and regionally, granting the festival resounding success. The Dubai Motor Festival will run from November 21 - December 5, 2014.
Dubai International Motor Show
The anchor event of the Motor Festival, car lovers are united in the opinion that this show is a must-attend. Recognised as the region’s premium car exhibition, the event is a collection of some of the most exclusive, extravagant and elusive cars destined for the UAE. For instance, the last edition of the show saw debuts of the staggering Alfa Romeo 4C coupe, Aston Martin’s CC100 concept car and the new V12 Vantage S, and Nissan’s new Patrol. The new GMC Yukon, Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Tahoe SUV were unveiled here too. The Motor Show will return in 2015 from November 10 -14.
Red Bull Car Park Drift
With roaring engines, break-neck speeds, rapid gear changes, hot white smoke, screeching tyres, bursts of flames from the exhaust and frenzied crowds, drift racing involves racers skidding and sliding around a curved track. The best drifting contestants from across the region converge in the city, battling it out for the coveted title of King of Drift. The Red Bull Car Park Drift is an annual event and is expected to return to the city around November this year.
Dubai Grand Parade
The crowning jewel of the festival is the Grand Parade which sees the most exclusive and coveted cars roll past the city’s landmarks as thousands of spectators watch in awe and envy. Think Bugatti Veyron – the world’s fastest street car – Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren, Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Maserati, Shelby Super Cars, Harley Davidson and Ducati. Patrolled by Dubai Police’s supercars, this parade is what an avid car lovers’ dreams are made of.
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Get Behind the Wheels
Here’s our edit of must-do road experiences during your stay in the city.
Dubai Autodrome
Zoom across the race tracks in velocityhugging, petrol guzzling machines at Dubai Autodrome, an FIA-sanctioned, 5.9km motorsports circuit that lets race aficionados get behind the wheels of some of the fastest cars. Experiences include driving the super Audi R8 V10, Audi TT and F-1 Style Single Seaters amongst others.
F-1 Style Single Seater
Fancy being Lewis Hamilton or Nico Rosberg for a day? The F-1 driving experience at Dubai Autodrome is perhaps the closest you can get to an actual F-1 driving experience. Complete with wings and slicks, the sleek single-seater encompasses incredible acceleration and sharp handling, which lets drivers hug the circuit corners at high speeds while feeling every inch of the race track.
Audi TT
If it’s your first time on the race track, the Audi TT is the perfect introduction. Acquainting drivers with the Autodrome track and letting them come to grips with braking, accelerating and steering, test your new-found skills under the guidance of a professional race instructor. Once you have a steady hand on the highperformance coupe, take control and blaze across the tracks solo.
Audi R8 V10
Progress to the next thrill level in the epic Audi R8 V10. The supremely powerful R8 goes from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in less than four seconds making it the most exhilarating driving experience at the Autodrome. From track and training technique, introduction to the race circuit and a final three fiery laps behind the wheels of the formidable R8, the race experience simply cannot be missed.
Karting
All F-1 drivers started their racing careers with karting and there’s no reason why you should keep away. The karts at Dubai Autodrome are the most competitive ones available and are fully-loaded with state-of-the-art features such as automated timing transponders and scoring systems. Dubai Autodrome offers racers both indoor and outdoor karting experiences. The outdoor track stretches 1.2km and is built to international standards with skill-testing corners, a tunnel and bridge that add to the challenge, plus multiple pit garages. The brilliantly-lit track allows night races too. Inside a massive warehouse, drivers will find the 620-metre indoor kart track. www.dubaiautodrome.com
Dubai Off-Road
Driving through the emirate’s deserts and wadis is a thrill unmatched and one that adventure seekers must undertake. Whether you choose to go desert driving, dune bashing or navigate rocky wadis, they all promise a memorable experience. Dune bashing is like taking a roller coaster ride through the massive, shifting dunes. The roar of the powerful dune buggies as they zoom to the top, the full-speed drop and ensuing fountains of sand will set your adrenaline racing and heart pumping like never before. Wadi bashing is perhaps the best way to explore the natural rugged beauty of the UAE. A wadi is a dry river bed that usually fills up with water after a spell of rain. Given the UAE’s climatic conditions, the wadis remain dry for almost 10 months of the year, making them perfect to drive through and experience rocky crevices, small rock pools and even palm oases. The most popular wadi haunts in the city are Wadi Al Wurayah and Hatta Pools.
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off road The Driving Essentials Know your vehicle before you take it into the desert or mountains. Never go out alone, and take a mobile phone and water. It is of utmost importance to lower your tyre pressures before entering an off-road situation. Do a complete service check before heading off-road. Check the weather to avoid desert dust storms or wadi floods. Maintain momentum. It prevents the 4x4 from getting stuck. Always test the depth of water crossing situations.
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Tantalise your taste buds and explore diverse cultures throughout the week with our mouth-watering, culinary-inspired and delicious theme nights buffet prepared by our award winning chefs.
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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brunch n! You haven’t really done Dubai till you’ve done brunch.
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ubai loves its food. With almost 200 nationalities living here, it can easily be said that the city has one of the world’s most diverse dining scenes. The city’s eating out culture is so widely recognised and appreciated that top celebrity chefs such as Gary Rhodes, Pierre Gagnaire and Nobu Matsuhisa have responded by opening their own ventures here. Our own food festival takes place in February! There is another Dubai institution that speaks volumes about the city’s love for food: the weekend brunch. Just as the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab are global icons of the city, so is the brunch. While Thursday evenings are usually for the party goers,
Friday afternoons find favour with families and friends for gathering at some of the best addresses in town for sumptuous buffets. The Friday brunch has become such an indispensable part of the social fabric that hotels now extend the affair to Saturdays as well. There are also evening brunches for those who just can’t get enough of these exotic spreads. Ingredients include top notch gourmet fare ranging from foie gras and Wagyu beef to oysters and black cod. High end to high street, chic to casual, family-friendly to more intimate settings for couples, there is a brunch for every taste and budget in this city. Here are a few that might take your fancy:
Picnic at Al Badia
chef stokes
Blades
where: Al Badia Golf Club what’s on offer: With the cooler months arriving soon, this will be one of the most memorable brunches you’ll indulge in. Blades packs its incredible brunch into a picnic hamper that you can enjoy on the lush lawns overlooking the golf course. Relax on the blanket around a low table and work your way through the hamper laden with scotch eggs, lentil crackers and fresh crab meat. Kids get their own miniature hamper, packed with sandwiches, treats and mini pots of bubbles. essentials: The picnic brunch runs from October – May and prices start from Dhs265. timings: 12pm – 4pm, every Saturday. reservations: 04 701 1127 www.diningdfc.com
During the cooler months, the brunch at Blades at the Al Badia Golf Club is immensely popular. Conceptualised as a ‘Traditional English Family Picnic’, chef robbie stokes uses food and the natural setting of the Badia Golf Club to serve a memorable meal. “Though the brunch looks relaxed and calm, the preparation behind it is anything but,” says chef Stokes. “Weeks of research, brain storming and meticulous planning go behind getting the menus right and preparations flawless. This exercise is not limited just to the food – the team has to plan out the entire set-up, starting from the welcome and ambience to the kids’ corner and entertainment options. In fact, the weekend brunch brings together departments as diverse as reservations, engineering, housekeeping, stewarding, marketing, sales, finance, service and of course food and beverage. “The food preparations begin a day ahead. A normal work day will start at 7:30am and finish around 11pm. The Chefin-charge will have to taste each item ensuring the highest standards of taste and quality. Since the menu is massive, that’s a lot of tasting for the chef to do! The arrival picnic basket is chock full of classic salads and picnic favourites like prawn cocktail, scotch eggs, baguettes, pate, smoked salmon, crab salad, vegetable and potato crisps, lemonade and orangeade. Then come the live cooking stations featuring lamb, beef, chicken, tuna, prawns, sweetcorn, and asparagus. Pies, ribs, sausages, crispy belly and spiced loin are huge crowd pleasers too. The dessert station dishes out its signature Soft Whip Ice Cream, bakewell tarts, fresh fruits, banoffee pie and Eton mess.”
DUBAI FOOD FESTIVAL following its highly successful debut this year, the Dubai Food Festival is now an annual month-long event that takes place across the city every January to highlight Dubai’s vast culinary and gourmet attributes. Created for residents of Dubai and visitors to the Emirate, the Dubai Food Festival celebrates and enhances Dubai’s position as the gastronomy capital of the region with more than 5,300 restaurants and places to eat, each catering to the 200 different nationalities that live in the city. Made up of a number of exciting food-related family
events, visitors get the chance to sample some of the signature dishes from the city’s top restaurants; take notes from visiting celebrity chefs; create their own dishes by attending masterclasses and simply enjoy fun-filled days of music, food and entertainment. The food bash kicks off with the glorious Dubai Food Carnival. A cheerful collection of all things foodie, the two-day event turns the city into a veritable food paradise. The Carnival offers a collection of over 100 food and drink stalls with live cooking and food samplings.
Next is the mega Gulfood exhibition that targets those who like to have a heads up on the latest food trends around the globe. In its last edition, Gulfood brought together an incredible 20,000 brands and 4,500 exhibitors. This year’s food fest spawned a unique dining concept in the city - pop-up beach canteens. Hosted in refurbished cargo containers, the canteen project saw 16 of the city’s restaurants serve up everything from sushi to tacos, at the Open, Kite and Sunset Beaches.
Zuma
where: Gate Village, DIFC what’s on offer: Serving part buffet, part à la carte served at the table, this iconic Japanese eatery has always been a trailblazer. Offering the half-half concept in 2009, the Zuma brunch incorporates starters of sushi, sashimi, maki, edamame, fried squid, miso soup, street food and desserts on individual buffets, while diners can choose one main course from a reduced à la carte menu of signature dishes. essentials: Prices start at Dhs345 per person; children between four and 12 years old pay Dhs225. timings: 12.30pm – 3.30pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 425 5660 www.zuma restaurant.com
dubai polo club
The Palermo Restaurant
where: Dubai Polo Club what’s on offer: Feast like a king while watching the sport of kings. Palermo’s expansive terrace overlooks the polo fields, providing diners with pulsating views during their meal. The thrilling polo action is beaten only by the sumptuous buffet of tapas, fresh salads, seafood, pasta, pizzas, succulent grills, signature dishes and sizzling live cooking stations. Special kids’ entertainment and a DJ for the adults are present too. essentials: Prices start at Dhs250 per person; children between six and 12 years old pay Dhs125. timings: 12.30pm – 3pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 361 8111 www.poloclubdubai.com
Gaucho Dubai
where: Gate Village, DIFC what’s on offer: Gaucho lets you brunch with a conscience. The restaurant’s à la carte brunch concept eliminates waste and fills you up without being overwhelming. Starters can be ordered repeatedly and include a selection of breads served with creamy guacamole, shrimp, sea bass, tuna, and a hot trio of chorizo, grilled gambas and empanadas. Each person is limited to one Argentine meat main. The salted dulce de leche and macadamia cheesecake are standout desserts. essentials: Prices start at Dhs350. timings: Noon – 4pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 422 7898 www.gaucho restaurants.co.uk
Al Qasr
where: Madinat Jumeirah what’s on offer: Massive takes on new meaning here. The buffet is so vast that staff hand out maps for guests to navigate their way through the humongous spread. A feast of food is served from the hotel’s three restaurants: Al Hambra, Arboretum and MJ’s steakhouse. Wagyu burgers, sushi, Thai, Arabic, Spanish and Mexican delicacies fight for diners’ attention. essentials: Prices start at Dhs475 per person; Children between four and 12 years old pay Dhs250. timings: 12.30pm – 4pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 366 6730 www.jumeirah.com d u b a i
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zuma
Prego’s
where: Media Rotana Dubai what’s on offer: This isn’t just another Italian trattoria claiming authentic Mediterranean cuisine – it is the real deal. Seafood takes centre stage but there are plenty of options available for vegetarians and the health conscious as well. The salad counter is extensive featuring treats like seafood salad, bruschetta, marinated mussels and smoked duck breast salad. Prego’s Tiramisu and Cannoli Siciliani are the jewels of the dessert spread. essentials: Prices start at Dhs199; children between six and 12 years old pay Dhs100. timings: Noon – 3.30pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 435 0000 www.rotana.com/ mediarotana.com
prego’s
Behind the Scenes Elegant tables laid with crisp white linen and gleaming silverware set the scene, while massive spreads of steaming starters, prime cuts, farm fresh vegetables and tantalising desserts beckon you to the buffet counter. Stepping into a chic brunch, we can never know what goes on behind the scenes to create such perfection. We speak to Prego’s chef daniele caopbianco at Media Rotana for a sneak peek into the kitchen just before the weekend brunch is served. how is your brunch different from the other italian brunches around town? Our philosophy is to keep the dishes as simple as possible and keep to the traditional recipe as much as possible. We also use only the freshest seasonal produce, which enhances the flavours. What is unique is that we have dishes from all over Italy; every region is covered. how do you decide the menu? Well our menu is decided by our guests. Based on their feedback, we continue to serve the popular choices while lesser favourites are then pulled out. For the main courses, we have a rotation of three weeks, which means guests will have a different option each weekend. Desserts are changed every week but staples like tiramisu
are always served. Apart from this the entire menu is overhauled every four to six months. how long does it take to prepare for the weekend buffet? A full two days and the whole Friday morning go into making the brunch perfect. We start our mise en place on Thursday and it goes on until Friday morning. It’s always a challenge because we actually don’t know the real number of diners till Thursday night or even Friday morning. What helps us is the fact that our brunch is really popular and we know almost for sure that we are going to be full every week. when do you actually start ‘cooking’ the food? On Thursday we have all the long cooking processes that take place but the “real thing” happens only on Friday morning. We don’t marinate any salads the day before, neither do we cook any of our main dishes unless it is a nice braised meat. We use also the technique of “overnight cooking” for some of our dishes to ensure they are tender and moist when we serve. It’s a fight against time but we always manage to finish on time without any compromise on quality. d u b a i
chef caopbianco what is new at the prego’s brunch? We recently added an à la carte menu to our brunch offering. This means you can choose a variety of dishes such as pastas, risottos and main courses without leaving your table. The quantity is unlimited. what is prego’s usp? Apart from the great Italian food, I think people will love the atmosphere here. Most of our guests are regulars and we know them by name. The staff are very friendly and soon everyone becomes a part of the Prego family. We also accommodate any kind of special dietary requests. Brunch here is like a family reunion. It reminds me of our Sunday lunch in Italy when my grandma would cook for the entire family. 43
Great Hall at Ibn Battuta
ibn battuta gate hotel
where: Ibn Batutta Gate Hotel what’s on offer: We love this brunch for making the event a truly family affair. A magician, movie theatre, bouncy castle and circus performers keep the little ones happily occupied while parents work their way through Arabic, Chinese, Italian and Indian food stations. There are separate rooms for dessert and cheese. essentials: Prices start at Dhs295 per person; children between six and 12 years old pay Dhs95. timings: Noon to 4pm, every Friday reservations: 04 444 0000 www.movenpick-hotels.com
Yalumba
3in1
where: Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre what’s on offer: You haven’t really ‘done’ Dubai if you haven’t tried Yalumba’s brunch. Inspiring a cult following, the brunch is a fullfledged party complete with party hats, bright garlands and whistles lining the table. Yalumba offers both food cooked to order and a massive buffet with international cuisine. essentials: Dhs499 (both adults and children). timings: 12.30pm – 3.30pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 702 2455 www.yalumba-dubai.com
Bubbalicious Brunch
where: Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi what’s on offer: Three of Westin’s restaurants join forces to serve one of the biggest and most decadent brunches in town. There are platters of every food imaginable in addition to a huge sushi station, cheese section, oyster bar, live Asian cooking stations, seafood platters, plenty of steaks, British classics, mixed drinks stations and an elaborate dessert section with a dedicated chocolate table. Entertainment comes in the form of a three-piece band, Chinese acrobats and a mini petting zoo. essentials: Prices start at Dhs390; children between six and 12 years old pay Dhs190. timings: 1pm – 4pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 399 4141 www.westinminaseyahi.com
Beachcombers
where: Jumeirah Beach Hotel what’s on offer: Brunching in the shadow of the elegant Burj Al Arab is the USP here but the food is just as impressive. The spread covers pan-Asian cuisine including Thai, Indian and Chinese plus a salad buffet, chocolate fountain and dessert table loaded with divine treats. A house band, roaming magicians, jugglers, balloon benders and face painters give the event a carnival vibe. The additional activity room with video games and crafts plus a separate children’s menu make it a firm family favourite. essentials: Prices start at Dhs299 per person; children between four and 12 years old pay Dhs149. timings: 1pm – 4pm, Fridays & Saturdays. reservations: 04 406 8999 www.jumeirah.com 44
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3in1
where: Vida Downtown what’s on offer: Vida’s Urban Picnic Brunch goes on to redefine the term picnic. The buffet offers an array of cheese, sandwiches, breads, wood-oven pizzas, salads, crumbles, quiches and desserts in a jar. Guests fill up their picnic baskets and head to faux-grass covered indoor tables or outdoor poolside cabanas. There’s also a small à la carte menu to choose from – we recommend the seafood basket. essentials: Prices start at Dhs225. timings: 1pm – 5pm, every Friday. reservations: 04 428 6823 www.vida-hotels. com/3-in-1
WEEKEND
Join us every Friday and Saturday, 10:30am until 4pm to enjoy our International casual buffet at Spikes.
BUFFET STARTING FROM AED 99 PER PERSON THRIFTY CORPORATE POSTER (106Hx173Wcm).pdf Buffet Ad.indd 1
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Spikes at Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental Dubai Festival City +971 4 701 1127/28 restaurantreservation.dfc@ihg.com diningdfc.com 1
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Sailing the High Seas Cruising into Dubai is finding favour with discerning travellers. The emirate’s famed attractions and incredible infrastructure have earned it the title of the region’s cruise hub. centuries ago , people plied the waters of the Arabian Gulf, seeking a better life. Bound for Dubai, they sailed into the ancient Port Rashid (also referred to as Mina Rashid) hoping to experience the comforts and bounties of the Golden Emirate. Centuries later, not much has changed. Dubai remains the magnet for thousands of people across the globe, drawn by the city’s famed attractions and repute for a lifestyle brimming with luxury, opportunity and glamour. Cruising into Dubai is a travel trend discerning travellers have embraced with gusto. In April this year, Cunard’s two largest cruise liners made calls in Dubai, highlighting its status as the region’s leading cruise hub. Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 stayed in port overnight, bringing to
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the fore Mina Rashid’s world-class facilities. At the time of docking, Angus Struthers, Marketing Director at Cunard, said: “Dubai is one of the signature ports that Cunard’s passengers particularly look forward to visiting as part of our annual world voyages. We are delighted that Queen Elizabeth, Cunard’s newest ship, and Queen Mary 2, our flagship and the only ocean liner in operation today, are both featuring an overnight stay in Dubai for the first time ever this week. With consecutive stays, this creates a four-day period spotlighting the great modern icons of both the city of Dubai and the ships of Cunard Line.” It’s noteworthy that Queen Mary 2, with a capacity of over 3,700 people, is not only Cunard’s biggest liner but also the largest ship to have docked in Dubai so far.
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dubai cruise terminal
ideal cruise destination Why are the world’s leading cruise companies beating a path out to Dubai? First, a stellar list of incredible attractions already makes Dubai a coveted holiday destination and the addition of impeccable cruising facilities have heightened the city’s allure. Drawing on its marine heritage, Dubai set up 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 evidenced in the fact that for six consecutive years, Mina Rashid has been named as the World’s Leading Cruise Port. The port’s proximity to the centre of the city and excellent transportation links mean that the attractions of Dubai are within immediate reach of
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cruise passengers. Investment in new infrastructure combined with guaranteed sunshine and warm weather; must-see attractions such as Burj Khalifa, the Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab; the desert and the coastline; and the contrast between the ultramodern skyline and the traditional souks and heritage areas make Dubai an ideal cruise destination. Dubai is the port of choice of Italy-based Costa Cruises, Switzerland-based MSC Cruises, Germany’s Aida and TUI Cruises, and the US-based Royal Caribbean – five of the world’s leading cruise lines. It also serves as the home port for several cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Van Gogh Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Seabourn Cruises and many more.
The queen elizabeth 2 has a gross tonnage of 70,327 and is 294 metres long. She had a top speed of 60.2 km/h with her original steam turbines; this was increased to 34 knots (63 km/h) when the vessel was re-engined with a diesel-electric powerplant.
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The Experience minif gol
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A cruise can turn an ordinary holiday into an exotic one and a cruise holiday to Dubai further amps up the luxury and exoticism quotient. Take for instance, Royal Caribbean’s seven-night Dubai Cruise aboard the grand Splendour of the Seas. This magnificent vessel hosts a great array of activities and facilities: the large VitalitySM Spa provides panoramic sea views and a collection of soothing treatments, from hot-stone therapy to deep-tissue facials. Health enthusiasts will appreciate the state-of-the-art fitness centre with classes ranging from kick-boxing to aerobics and yoga. Indoor and outdoor pools set within the stunning solarium are a treat for swimmers. There is also an outdoor movie theatre and an 18-hole miniature golf course. After sampling the on-board opulence, cruisers can look forward to the diverse shore excursions the cruise includes, such as a 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. 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 (most cruises stop at the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, and Muscat and Khasab in Oman) make a cruise from Dubai an experience of a lifetime.
chill out
swi m on-board mini golf
coming soon: the world The World is coming to Dubai and by this we don’t just mean the over 10 million tourists who land in the city each year. The massive Mall of the World (MoW) will rise along the Sheikh Zayed Road across the next ten years. Covering a sprawling 48 million square feet, the development will encompass a colossal mall, the world’s largest theme park, a wellness district, retail streets and a cultural district inspired by the Ramblas in Barcelona. The retail area at MoW will be four times the size of The Dubai Mall - that is approximately
200 football pitches combined! This will be connected to around 100 hotels and serviced apartments. The district’s retail streets will stretch for over seven kilometres and will be air-conditioned. Planners say shopping here will be akin to strolling down London’s Oxford Street during winter. Mall of the World will also be extremely conducive to beauty. A wellness district, covering three million square feet, will offer cosmetic procedures, holistic wellness and rejuvenation facilities, specialised surgical procedures as well as high quality general healthcare.
Women of Substance Meet just a small handful of the city’s successful and accomplished females
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with over 65% of the UAE government made up of female employees, it’s no wonder it was a woman who presented Dubai’s final speech that ultimately led to the city winning its bid to host the prestigious World Expo in 2020. As a minister of state in the UAE government, HE Reem Ebrahim Al Hashimi is just one prime example of the many successful female government members and entrepreneurs in Dubai. And with 70% of university graduates in Dubai being women, even HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Ak Maktoum, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has said “women are the soul and spirit of the country”. We take a look at just a small handful of these successful ladies.
rosemin manji
Emirati Women Across the Generations Women have played a pivotal role in the UAE’s history. In 1819, Emirati women fought alongside their men against an invasion by British forces from the sea. In 1956, a time when Arab nationalism and resistance were at a peak, Emirati women worked for radios and newspapers, often turning their majlises into a forum for political discussions. In 1971, Emirati schoolgirls joined the protests against the occupation of the UAE’s three islands by foreign forces. These are just some instances where Emirati women have contributed to and helped shape the country’s history. For a deeper insight into the life-changing roles Emirati women have played, visitors can head to the Dubai Women’s Museum, which explores and
celebrates the lives of women in the UAE and features key achievements made by them over the years in education, medicine, politics, fashion and literature. As a contemporary cultural centre, the Women’s Museum offers visitors the opportunity to discover UAE society through the lives of women, past and present. Containing rare photos, documents and striking artwork, the three-storey building housing the museum is tucked away in an alley near Deira’s bustling Gold Souk, marked as ‘Sikka 28’. One entire floor of the museum has been dedicated to the famous Emirati poet Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, popularly known as ‘Bint Al Arab’ (daughter of Arabs). www.womenmuseumuae.com
Role Models UAE’s women – whether Emirati or expat – are also breaking down stereotypes and pushing the boundaries in their private lives, competing internationally in sport, embarking on expeditions to Antarctica, forming skydiving teams and participating in many unconventional fields. We profile some of the most tenacious and talented women in Dubai. Whether they were born here or set up home here, the UAE has helped these women reach the highest levels of success.
HE Reem Ebrahim Al Hashimi minister of state
est known as the face of B Dubai’s Expo 2020 bid, Reem Al Hashimi played a vital role in securing the global event for her home country. Apart from this pivotal achievement, Reem has many feathers in her cap. She is the UAE’s Minister of State, chairperson of Dubai Cares (a UAE-based charity), chairperson of the Emirates Competitiveness Council and chairperson of the National 52
Bureau of Statistics. She started her brilliant career as a commercial attaché and subsequently became Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Washington, DC. Her speech during the UAE’s final presentation in Paris – which was delivered in both French and English – won plaudits for its portrayal of Dubai. “I stand before you representing the voice of millions in my country,” she said. “I stand before you not only as a civil servant, a daughter, a mother but also as a citizen of humanity committed and determined to make a difference and inspire change.”
Mariam Al Mansouri air force pilot
Since she was a teenager, Mariam had her sights on becoming a pilot for the armed forces. She bided her time by spending several years working for General Command before becoming the first woman to join the air force when the academy opened its doors to female recruits. Now Major Mariam Al Mansouri, she d u b a i
is the UAE’s first female Emirati air force pilot. A recipient of the Mohammed bin Rashid Excellence Award, her training required her to demonstrate a high level of theoretical and practical proficiency. A graduate of Khalifa bin Zayed Air College in 2007, the major is now a veteran operations pilot, working with F-16 Block 60 aircraft.
Rosemin Manji
director of rr&co bespoke luxury management One of the most fashionable women in the city, Rosemin Manji’s career is nothing short of envy inducing. A graduate of the London College of Fashion, she has worked with some of the best designers in the world: Clare Waight Keller, Stefano Pilati, Frida Giannini, Alessandra Facchinetti and Christopher Bailey. As Juicy Couture’s European PR Director, she dressed icons like Kate Moss and Gwyneth Paltrow. Her next move was to Dubai, where she launched RR&Co Bespoke Luxury Management, a fashion consultancy firm whose client list
An Integral Part of the Social System It is noteworthy that the respect accorded to UAE’s women is not the result of exposure to Western beliefs and social reforms. Throughout the history of the region, women have been a vital part of society. When the men of the households left for months to work in the pearl-diving and fishing industries, the women were responsible for their families’ needs and raising the children. This was not an easy task in the desert’s harsh landscape and women were respected both for their ability to work the land and because the Quran requires respect. Though women’s rights are highlighted in the Holy Book, the UAE’s constitution reinforces them in legal terms that are applicable across the country.
reads like the who’s who of the fashion world: Burberry, Christian Louboutin, Issa, Givenchy, Marchesa and Temperley London. RR&Co specialises in the fashion luxury sector for retail consultancy, styling and niche events. Over the years the company has hosted countless international designers including Christian Louboutin, Tom Ford, Tory Burch, Alice Temperley and Giuseppe Zanotti amongst others.
In the Government
Dubai´s ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum is renowned for his respect and support of women, who have been given major roles in the country’s governance. Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid bin Sultan al Qasimi is the Minister of Foreign Trade. She is also listed on Forbes Magazine’s 100 Most Powerful Women. Hassa Al Otaiba and Sheikha Najla Al Qasimi are the UAE’s first female ambassadors, serving Spain and Sweden, respectively. Kholoud Ahmed Juoan Al Dhaheri is the country’s first female judge while Fatima Saeed Obaid Al Awani was appointed the country’s first female registrar.
within the UAE’s PR industry, Shamim covers the region’s most exclusive events and organises high-impact press conferences across the GCC. She also runs ShamimScene features on Dubai TV and ShamimScene Gossip on Abu Dhabi Classic Radio.
Jessica Kahawaty presenter for yahoo! maktoob
Born to Lebanese parents in Sydney, Australia, Jessica
Kahawaty was crowned Miss World Australia in 2012 and has walked the ramp for Escada, Jimmy Choo and Akira. Recognising Dubai as a place where opportunity sees no boundaries and which warmly welcomes ideas and innovation, Jessica moved to the emirate recently. As the presenter of Yahoo! Maktoob’s entertainment shows omg! NOW and omg! NUJOOM, Jessica brings to audiences all the happenings in the world of entertainment.
Shamim Kassibawi
managing partner & founder at spread communications Known as the PR machine of the city, Shamim Kassibawi is a PR guru whose branding ideas have breathed life into campaigns for iconic companies like Gucci, Harley-Davidson, SITA, Arabian Radio Network and Xerox. Shamim’s mixed Arabic and Kiwi background gives her a unique perspective on Dubai, which she shares on ShamimScene.com, a video blog designed to give a non-journalist’s perspective of life in Dubai. Well respected
shamim kassibawi
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jessica kahawaty
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Panning
Gold
A Dubai shopping spree isn’t complete if you haven’t added a gold nugget to your purchases.
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‘Gold to Go’ machines can be found at Burj Khalifa, Atlantis – The Palm, Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates and Galeries Lafayette at the Dubai Mall. The truth is that it’s hard to leave Dubai without getting your own piece of bling. Dubai is also one of the few places on earth where people come for ‘gold tourism’, especially travellers from the sub-continent. Low prices, guaranteed purity and an array of designs have incentivised Dubai’s gold proposition.
ubai’s moniker of City of Gold isn’t due just because of the emirate’s vast stretches of blazing sands. To discover how the city earned that title, simply step into Deira’s Gold Souk, touted as the largest collection of gold shops under one roof. Perhaps the alias can be attributed to the fact that Dubai is one of the few cities in the world that has gold vending machines: the incredible
d gol on d y be bars It’s not just gold bars and bullions that Dubai is famed for. The city has other glittering offerings that will leave you amazed. Elixia, the 24-karat gold leaf-infused lemonade, at Milk and Honey, Palm Jumeirah. 04 432 8686
Top Reasons for Buying Gold in Dubai Whether you’re looking for bars or bracelets, Dubai is the ideal place to make that purchase. Here’s why:
and services offered by the shop and gives assurance and confidence to the buyers.
Purity: Gold sold in Dubai is
Variety: There are
of the highest purity, which is ensured by the Dubai Central Laboratory through strict regulatory measures. The ‘Bareeq’ quality management system and certification scheme gives formal recognition to jewellery shops that meet the good practise criteria for jewellery trading. This ensures the quality of the products
facials involving a 24-karat gold Peel at the Kaya Skin Clinic, Town Centre Mall. 04 349 9558 24-karat gold shoes by Alberto Moretti at Level Shoe District, The Dubai Mall. 04 501 6690 Palace cappuccino topped with 22-karat gold dust at Al Bayt Lounge, The Palace, Downtown Dubai. 04 428 7806
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gold vending machine
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approximately 200 nationalities living in Dubai, which means there is jewellery to suit all tastes, be it Arabic, Asian, Western or European.
Price: The price of gold
jewellery in Dubai is very competitive due to the sheer volumes of business and the ever-low markup.
dubai creek
Gold Rush
Now that we have established that Dubai is the place to buy gold, comes the ever-important question: where do you buy it from? While there is no shortage of outlets retailing the precious metal, some addresses stand out for their sheer size and variety of ornaments on display. Whether you’re a buyer or just a window shopper, these stops are unmissable.
ras metro station
The Gold Souk
deira gold souk
sheikh zayed road fgb metro station gold and diamond park
did you know? •
Dubai’s oldest claim to gold fame, the Gold Souk in Deira, is one of the largest retail gold markets in the world. Starting out in the 1900s with just a handful of gold retailers and smiths, the souk is now a buzzing market with over 400 shops within a walkabout of some 15 minutes. The souk’s design is reminiscent of an old Arabian bazaar: massive wooden gates welcome shoppers into narrow cobbled alleys lined with rows of shops. Wooden beams shade from the scorching sun while huge fans help shoppers keep their cool as they peruse thousands of designs. The vehicle-free lanes of the Gold Souk are meant to be taken in at leisure. The sheer scale and variety of designs on offer is staggering – bracelets, bangles, earrings, pendants and necklaces are available in yellow, white and rose gold; 24 and 22-karat Indian extravaganzas, delicate 18-karat Italian pieces, diamond-encrusted ornaments and strings of pearls glint from each window, demonstrating why Dubai really is the City of Gold. It’s estimated that approximately 10 tonnes of gold is constantly present at the souk! Apart from making a new purchase, shoppers can also exchange their old jewellery here at extremely competitive rates. Shopkeepers are obliging and most happy to assist you in your purchase. handy hint: The Al Ras station on Dubai Metro’s Green Line is just a few minutes’ walk away from the Gold Souk.
Gold and Diamond Park If you prefer air-conditioned and marble-clad interiors to rustic charm, then the Gold and Diamond Park on Sheikh Zayed Road is the place for you. A modernised version of the Gold Souk in Deira, the Park houses around 90 jewellery outlets that offer exclusive designs that are hard to come by in other shops. The Park is also known for its ensemble of talented artisans who can craft custom jewellery to customer specifications. Prices at the Park are said to be cheaper than those at the Gold Souk but it’s best to check both places before making a purchase. In terms of quality, both venues are on a par. handy hint: The First Gulf Bank station on Dubai Metro’s Red Line is located right in front of the Gold and Diamond Park.
Dubai made the world’s longest gold chain during the Dubai Shopping Festival 1999. The chain was made in 22-karat gold and measured 4.2 kilometres in length. 9,600 people bought parts of the chain in the form of necklaces and bracelets.
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Buying Tips! Check the gold rate prior to your purchase. Both the Gold Souk and the Gold and Diamond Park display rates on leader boards within their premises. Some individual shops display the day’s rates too. Local newspapers (print and online versions) also carry gold rates.
Glowing History
Dubai’s penchant for the gleaming metal is not new; it can be traced to its beginnings as a major trading port in the 19th century. Back then, gold was one of the emirate’s earliest objects of trade. Long before the discovery of oil, Dubai prospered in the gold trade, providing a strong economy for its population. Right from the time it was a seafaring town to the glitzy commercial hub that it has become today, the lure of its gold trade has grown exponentially. It is estimated that the emirate imports around 400 tonnes of gold every year, making it the regional gold hub and the largest gold trading centre in the Middle East. Gold holds a special place in Arab tradition too. Before the advent of safe banking, it was considered prudent to invest in gold rather than keeping large amounts of money at home. Then there was the prestige factor – the more gold the women of the house wore, the more affluent the family was considered.
do haggle! look around
before you finalise a purchase – the market is extremely competitive and you may find the same piece at a lower price. Under local law it is mandatory for gold jewellery sold in Dubai to carry the gold purity hallmark. Ask the jeweller to show you the same on all ornaments. Ensure that you collect the invoice with a description of the jewellery purchased as you might require it at the airport. Please ask for the
certificate of authenticity when buying diamond and gemstone-studded jewellery.
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deira gold souk
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nu skin incentives
Dubai hosts the largest incentive group in history
a look ahead To the next three months on the Dubai Calendar
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nu skin incentive group in april 2014, Dubai’s leading hotels, tour organisers and a broad spectrum of tourism stakeholders, led by the Dubai Events and Convention Bureau (DECB), pulled together to host the largest-ever incentives group in UAE history. 14,500 delegates from Nu Skin China Enterprises arrived in Dubai on a mega-incentive trip which saw them use 71 Emirates Airline flights, two chartered Emirates A380s, 25 hotels in Dubai and hundreds of luxury coaches. The group experienced the sights and sounds of Dubai and were taken on a huge tour of the
emirate over several days, where they were shown many landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest mall, and Al Fahidi Neighbourhood in the historical heart of the city. The group also attended training workshops and extensive gala dinners during their trip, which served as a major proof point internationally of the emirate’s ability to host groups of any scale or scope. The trip had an economic impact on the emirate estimated at around USD$80 million.
July 2014
Number of photographs taken:
nu skin incentive group facts & bid milestones
countless
size of the group
food & bever age
14,500
28,000
attending 38% 62% delegates men women
chopsticks used at one gala dinner
79,250 hot dinners served
age breakdown
a c c o m m o d at i o n
40
hotels
18-35 35.5% 36-50 39% 51-65 19% 65+ 6.5% 62
40,000 room nights
40
stacked Burj Khalifas needed to rival a delegate human tower
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Burj Al Arabs would be needed to host the entire group
16
Dubai Metro trains needed to transport the whole group
tourism
Oct 2012:
Jan 2013:
April 2013:
Oct 2013:
Dubai Events and Convention Bureau (DECB) submits a bid to host the Nu Skin incentive group in March or April 2014, followed by a bid presentation in Nu Skin’s offices in Shanghai. Initial specs are a group of maximum 6,000 delegates. Dubai is competing against Macao, Seoul and Singapore.
Dubai is selected as the destination for the 2014 Nu Skin Success Trip. At the bidding stage, DECB offered a marketing fund to support the event, delegate ‘welcome’ bags and assistance with marketing and PR support. An MOU was signed between DECB and Nu Skin to seal the above.
Second inspection trip to Dubai for Nu Skin Senior Management and 30 Nu Skin top VIP sellers. DECB arranges meeting with prospective Dubai-based DMCs for CYTS. Arabian Adventures is selected to handle all hotel bookings and transportation needs.
DECB attends review meeting at Nu Skin offices in Shanghai. By this stage, the incentive is expected to reach 16,000 delegates, eventual number drops to 14,500. DECB begins liaising with government and private entities to facilitate trip. DECB begins utilising and adapting the DTCM Tour Guide Training Programme to train up to 300 Mandarin speaking tour guides.
Nov 2012:
Feb-July 2013:
july 2013:
DECB coordinates a site inspection/ review trip to Dubai for Nu Skin’s senior management.
Nu Skin tenders the services for a PCO to three prospective partners in China, CITS, CYTS and Apple Tours.
CYTS is contracted by Nu Skin to manage the 2014 Nu Skin incentive group to Dubai.
april 6-17, 2014: Nu Skin Success Trip kicks off and concludes without a hitch.
incentive activities
49
individual itineraries developed
32,304 hours worked by dinner staff
19
total landmarks and attractions visited
705
chefs preparing for the gala dinners
2
gala dinners held for delegates
31 tons
weight of prepared food
2,319
592
desert safari participants
689
elevator rides to the top of the Burj Khalifa
104,355
number of SUVs used
total minutes spent dune bashing
1
186,210
minute
time spent in the elevator
minutes spent at the top of the Burj Khalifa
transport
131
dhow cruises held
0
hats blown overboard
400,000 total kilometres travelled locally
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450
number of coaches used
71
flights used + 2 chartered A380s
63
nu skin group fa c t s
decb’s #dubai welcomes campaign
1
14,500 delegates, who travelled from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan as guests of Nu Skin, a skin care company celebrating its 30th anniversary, were in the United Arab Emirates April 6-17 2
Arabian Adventures organised all of the hotel, transportation and excursion logistics for Nu Skin’s business partners and VIPs
DECB used social media to positively influence all chinese visitors to act as ambassadors for Dubai by posting photographs of their trip to the emirate
3
The group used 71 Emirates flights, and chartered two Emirates A380 aircraft, one from Beijing and one from Hong Kong 4
In order to accommodate the entire group, around 40,000 room nights in 40 hotels, 25 in Dubai and 15 in Abu Dhabi, were booked 5
Travelling in seven waves, the guests not only visited Dubai, but also Sharjah and Abu Dhabi during their time in the country. Each wave averaged 2,000 visitors
A competition was run on the sina weibo platform Through the #Dubai Welcomes# campaign, the DECB incentivised all visitors to post photos of their trip, through a competition to see which one got the most ‘shares’
6
450 luxury coaches escorted the guests on a full City Tour of Dubai, a Dhow Cruise, and a visit to the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah. Also, they visited the Grand Mosque, Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi along with trips to the Sharjah Islamic Museum and the Blue Souq
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The winner of the competition, who had the photograph of Dubai with the most shares, won a free trip to Dubai with her family
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A Look Ahead
to the next three months Emirates Airline Rugby Sevens 2014
The excitement is building up as the city gears up for the biggest sporting cum social event of the year, the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens (the second round of the HSBC Sevens World Series) from December 4-6. Attracting over 100,000 fans annually, the event is also an occasion for the family to spend their weekend outdoors, with loads of activities, fun, fabulous concerts and of course world class rugby.
UAE National Day 2014
Celebrate 43 glorious years of the country’s unity and success on December 2. Parades, firework displays, carnivals and a host of other activities are planned.
Dubai Desert Road Run December 2014
Taking place several times during the year, the Desert Road Run includes a 10km race for adults and those above 14 years old, a 3km junior race, for ages six to 18, and a 3km fun run, which is untimed. Participants can enter a single run or register for as many dates as they wish. On December 6 at the The Sevens Stadium.
Dubai International Film Festival 2014
The glittering world of movies comes alive at the Dubai International Film Festival as top film celebrities jet into Madinat Jumeirah in December. Last year’s red carpet guests included the acclaimed Martin Sheen, Cate Blanchett, Zac Efron, Mark Ruffalo, Jim Sheridan, Rooney Mara and the inimitable Andy Serkis. This year’s guests will be announced soon! From December 10–17.
BWF Destination Dubai World Superseries Finals
Dubai will see some of the world’s best badminton players converge at the season finals of the Badminton World Federation Destination Dubai World Superseries Finals this December. The matches will take place at the Hamdan Sports Complex from December 17–21.
Dubai Shopping Festival 2015
The New Year rings in with the internationally-acclaimed Dubai Shopping Festival – a month-long retail extravaganza featuring a festive mix of shopping discounts, mega raffles and electrifying entertainment. From January 1 – February 1 2015.
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Dubai Food Carnival 2015
Kicking off the Dubai Food Festival, the Dubai Food Carnival is a potpourri of flavours and styles. With culinary delights and top chefs from around the world, it also includes a host of entertainment activities such as cook-offs, BBQ challenges, headline music acts, local bands and DJs, chef workshops, street entertainers, children’s activities and much more. From February 12–14 at Dubai International Marine Club (Mina Seyahi).
Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival 2015
The Festival will feature a star-studded line-up of classic rock legends and pop stars, along with a significant variety of world-recognised jazz and blues artists. The Jazz Garden includes free concerts and is hugely popular with jazz fans. From February 19–27.
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2015
Watch the best international players at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. This will be the 23rd year for the event and competitors will be announced soon. February – March 2015.
Family Shop and Stay Weekend. Because in Pullman, we know how to make the most out of your weekend. Enjoy a stay for 3 with breakfast in a Deluxe Room or a Junior Suite, AED 200 shopping giftcard per room per night, discount booklet from Deira City Centre and foot massage for 2. Valid for GCC Residents on Thursdays to Sundays only. Terms & Conditions apply.
Pullman Dubai Deira City Centre Telephone: 04 603 8555 | Email h2022@accor.com | www.pullmanhotels.com
J O I N O U R G L O B A L L OYA L T Y P RO G R A M AT ACCO R H OT E L S . CO M