FACT Abu Dhabi January 2015 by Fact ME

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January 2015 VOL 1. ISSuE 8 aED 10

YOU ARE WELCOME!

You are different. That is why we have created a modern urban lifestyle experience in the cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi that is sure to exceed your every expectation. Introducing Jumeirah at Etihad Towers in the heart of Abu Dhabi.

For reservations please contact +971 2 811 5888 or visit jumeirah.com

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contents J A N U A R Y 2015

Comp corner 08 WIN with our monthly competitions! This month we’ve got two fabulous foodie experiences up for grabs.

ARTS 39 We meet Abu Dhabi-based artist Amira Rahim to learn all about her colourful abstract expressionist paintings.

fashion 69 With a new season comes new trends and this month we’ve got all the styles from Massimo Dutti’s F/W collection.

LISTEN UP 12 Abu Dhabi Festival is back in March with an incredible line-up of renowned performers and local initiatives. We have the lowdown!

globetrotter 47 A New Year means new travel plans and we’re bringing you our favourite luxury and budget holiday hotspots.

CHEF’S TABLE 79 Fans of Italian food will love this one! FACT went to meet Chef Andrea at Spaccanapoli in Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi.

GOLFING 18 FACT caught up with worldfamous golfer Martin Kaymer ahead of the 2015 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.

City rides 57 FACT’s main motoring man tests the all-new Ferrari FF on the UAE roads to bring you everything this machine has to offer.

VENUE REVIEW 83 Our resident foodie went along to the renowned Carluccio’s to see if this in-mall eatery lives up to the culinary hype.

NEW YOU 23 A New Year means new experiences and we’ve got all the foodie, entertainment and wellness recommendations right here.

motoring 64 2015 is going to be big for cars and we’ve rounded up our favourite five models ready to hit the roads this year.

FOODIE CORNER 87 FACT talks to the founder of the Carluccio’s brand, Antonio Carluccio himself, to learn more about his incredible cooking.

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THE EDITOR FACT Magazine Abu Dhabi Edition January 2015 Volume 1, Issue 8

“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” Oprah Winfrey

hope you all had a fabulous festive season and enjoyed the National Day

celebrations, and that your pockets and waistlines weren’t hit too hard! Can you believe it’s 2015 already? We’re sure making (and some of us already breaking) resolutions, but that’s what I love about the New Year - new

goals, a fresh start and renewed motivation. For Abu Dhabi, 2015 is looking to be another fantastic 12 months, so we thought it only right to share with you some

Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes

Group Regional Editor Tony Sidgwick (tony@factlive.com) Features Editor Pallavi Ramesh (editorial@factlive.com)

lifestyle changes, we’re here to give you a little push with our New Year, New You

Senior Graphic Designer Raquel Henriques

If you picked up this issue because of the cute and colourful cover, then head straight for the arts feature on p39. We came across a talented local artist,

Amira Rahim, whose abstract expressionist style has led to her art works being showcased in local exhibitions, as well as garnering a loyal following online.

Thanks Amira for sharing your artistic journey with us! What do you think of

the cover? Tweet (@FACTAbuDhabi), Facebook (factabudhabi) or Instagram (@ factmagazine) us with your thoughts and comments.

So, what’s happening in Abu Dhabi this Jan? Loads of cool stuff, that’s

Photography Rashed Bin Daina Sehab @ Platinum Star Events Management Production & Distribution Manager Neil Mahmood Advertising Sales Manager Mohammed Sahim

what. The 2015 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship will see some of the world’s

Regional Key Account Manager Chelsea Copenhaver

three-time champion Martin Kaymer on p18 to learn more about his experience

Advertising Enquiries Email: sahim@factlive.com

biggest names in the world of golfing come to our shores. We caught up with

in the tournament. Another person who we had the pleasure of meeting recently is world-famous cook Antonio Carluccio, who visited Abu Dhabi to open

Carluccio’s in Yas Mall. We chat to the cook turned author on p87 about his favourite Italian dishes and more!

As always, FACT has your fashion, food, travel, tech, motoring and

entertainment needs covered down to a tee. We’ve got our favourite luxury and budget trips (p47); our top 2015 car models (p64); the super stylish seasonal

collection from Massimo Dutti (p69); and the monthly mouthwatering Chef ’s Table (p79) and Venue Review (p83) to whet your foodie appetites. Now, let’s

make 2015 one to remember for all the right reasons. For me, that means starting with a cup of green tea and making a weekly workout calendar (I can do this… and so can you!). Until the month of love and pancakes, Happy New Year and keep on keeping on with those resolutions.

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@factlive.com

12/30/14 9:48 AM

Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@factlive.com)

Creative Director Paula Leal

advice, tips, and recommendations for right here in Abu Dhabi (p23).

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front.indd 1

of the great new places to dine, be entertained, and get pampered this year. For

those of you who want to try new experiences as well as wanting to make some

January 2015 VOL 1. ISSuE 8 aED 10

Good Cheer & Happy New Year!

Printed By Awal Press All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. FZ-LLC cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O. Box 769328, Abu Dhabi, UAE License Number: D.L. 361/14/A

Twitter: @FACTAbuDhabi Instagram: @factmagazine

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Jason Caston @jasoncaston Trying to watch #BigHero6 with my kids but they just want to narrate the movie!! Arrrgghh Reem Al Aseeri @Reem_ALAseeri Hi @KimKardshian, your game has been giving me free K stars every 5 minutes. It went from 9 to 77 in a couple of hours. Make it stop. Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi @HolidayInnAUH Thank you @FACTAbuDhabi for featuring us in this month’s issue. Chef Carl thinks he looks rather handsome in the issue! #AbuDhabi #dining Ann Benjamin @ABenjaminAuthor Making lunch for work tomorrow! Adult achievement unlocked. #LikeABoss That Cardiff Girl @thatcardiffgirl Remember, remember the 5th of November. To always define your eyebrows and never trust a man with a Velcro wallet.

Find Rashed?

He’s hidden somewhere in this issue, also available to download. Find FACT’s dapper designer chilling somewhere in this issue and you could WIN A Dinner For Two at City Cafe in Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana. Look close and hard because Rashed will be perched on one of the editorial pages! Email editorial@factlive.com with the page number you think he’s on, your name and contact details! Good Luck!

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WIN

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COMPETITIONS

COMP CORNER

Send your answer(s) along with your name and number, with ‘FACT AD Comp’ in the subject line, to editorial@factlive.com

FACT has some fabulous giveaways this month and here’s how you can enter for a chance to win… WIN! A Dhs300 Voucher for Carluccio’s Restaurant

This month we had the pleasure of reviewing one of the fantastic venues of renowned Italian food chain Carluccio’s. The franchise now has three fabulous restaurants in Abu Dhabi – Eastern Mangroves, The Galleria Mall, and the newly opened Yas Mall. We also had the honour of meeting the man behind Carluccio’s worldwide success – Mr Antonio Carluccio himself – and got a little insight into the restaurant business as well as Italian fare. Now you can go and experience the eatery’s delightful menu packed with authentic and yummy Italian dishes. All you have to do is read our venue review of Carluccio’s on page 83 and answer the question below:

NAME TWO OF THE DISHES THAT WE TRIED DURING OUR VISIT TO CARLUCCIO’S…

WIN! Casual Fridays at The Pool Deck For Two, Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara Win the chance to enjoy delicious dining from 7pm to 11pm for yourself and a friend at Casual Fridays at The Pool Deck in Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, including house beverages. Make the most of the cooler months and relax with friends over the delicious flavours of barbequed kebabs, accompanied by a selection of gourmet salads and a sumptuous dessert buffet. After dinner, enjoy a smooth, flavourful shisha – the traditional Arabian nightcap. For a chance to win, simply answer the below:

ON WHICH DAY OF THE WEEK DOES THE DELICIOUS BUFFET AT THE POOL DECK TAKE PLACE? a) Wednesday B) Friday C) Sunday For reservations call 02 656 1000 or email emdining@anantara.com. 8

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N av i g at i Ng N e w wate rs Sailing the Dhow, Abu Dhabi, UAE

a s e N s e o f p l ac e . ro s e wo o d a b u d h a b i . +971 (0) 2 813 5555

| abudhabi.reservations@rosewoodhotels.com | rosewoodhotels.com

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CHECK IT OUT

Fact Finds

Italian Food Done Circo Style Discover more of Abu Dhabi with FACT Finds. Every month we’ll bring you a new hotspot, our favourite happening, eatery, activity, or interesting find from around the city.

Foodies of the city, stand up and take Circo’s dining room takes guests on a note! There’s a new Italian dining journey from the lively streets of Abu venue in town, and, boy, has it got Dhabi to a playful European carnival some world-class flair. That’s right, through its imaginative and charming Circo at InterContinental Abu design. The radiant colour palette Dhabi is now open for business, and cheerful decor create a vibrant, offering up exceptional, upscale whimsical and dynamic vibe that is Italian fare built upon a foundation of enhanced by luxurious interior design signature Tuscan recipes from NYC’s (you’ll want to stop in the middle of famed Le Cirque family. the room and gaze around slowly to Straight out of the kitchen of take it all in - it’s that good!). Maccioni matriarch Egidiana, the The Italian restaurant will be GO: Call (0)2 666 6888 for reservations menu features Tuscan dishes with helmed by Chef Luca Banfi, who and more information. authentic recipes passed down through will be preparing all the dishes on the the generations of the Maccioni family, who founded menu along with his team. You might recognise his the first Circo restaurant in New York, in 1996. Since name as Chef Luca who earned the top job after an the very first venue opened, Osteria del Circo has been outstanding performance on the popular American a Maccioni family collaboration between Sirio (Le TV show Chef Wanted. Since his triumph on the show, Cirque), his wife Egidiana and sons Marco and Mauro. Chef Luca has been working as Chef de Cuisine at The restaurant offers a lively, sophisticated setting InterContinental Abu Dhabi. The new addition to the reminiscent of the old-style European circus tents, foodie family will be the first Maccioni venture in the which inspired the restaurant’s name and ambience. Middle East, exclusively at the hotel. 10

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LISTEN UP

ADM A F Revea l s A bu Dh a bi Fe s t iva l 2 015 P ro g ra m me The Abu Dhabi Festival (ADF), organised by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), recently announced, at a press conference, the groundbreaking programme for its 12th edition to be held from March to April 2015…

Combining music, theatre, dance, and visual and traditional arts, the Abu Dhabi Festival commences on March 3 with a nationwide education and community programme. The main programme of performances takes place at Emirates Palace until April 2, and includes the Festival Recital Series as well as, for the first time in the Middle East, the FotoFest exhibition View From Inside, which continues until April 20. The Festival’s range of performances, exhibitions, discussions, workshops and screenings will give audiences the chance to witness, firsthand, the power of the arts to unlock the potential of individuals as well as to nurture greater mutual cultural understanding between local and global communities. ADF 2015 will welcome main programme performances by Brazilian music legend Sérgio Mendes; maestro Riccardo Muti conducting violin virtuoso Anne-Sophie Mutter and the Luigi Cherubini Youth Orchestra; the acclaimed Peruvian tenor Juan Diego Flórez; pianists Jan Lisiecki and Leif Ove Andsnes; the Budapest Festival Orchestra conducted by Iván Fischer; two performances of a concert staging of Mozart’s The Magic Flute; and the Lebanese American singer Mayssa Karaa, making her international debut. Supporting the main programme, the Festival’s extensive education and community initiative embraces the communities of all seven Emirates, upholding the spirit of Bilad Al Khayr (The Land of Blessings). Offering over 130 inspiring and memorable experiences, Abu Dhabi Festival is one of the largest cultural festivals in the region and this year, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) will be the charity beneficiary of the 2015 event. 12

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Enhancing its long-standing commitment to youth music, this year ADF will introduce a brand new series of recitals by award-winning young laureates of classical music. These intimate concerts offer a unique opportunity to experience tomorrow’s global virtuosos. With so many exciting events, activities and shows linedup, ADF 2015 is going to be a great month of performing arts and cultural happenings! GO: Visit www.abudhabifestival.ae for more information.

“A s e ach y e a r pa sse s, th e A b u D h a b i F e stiva l e mb e d s itse l f in th e ve ry fab r ic o f so cie ty. I t is not simp ly a n e ve nt. I t is a cr e ative e x p e r ie nce th at is a nticipate d a nd e mb r ace d b y th e p e o p l e o f th e UA E .” H.E. Hoda Al Khamis-Kanoo, ADMAF Founder and Artistic Director of the Abu Dhabi Festival.

everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got that one uncle. facebook.com/gap

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SOCIETY

#Millennium #Corniche #Tree #Lighting A crowd of parents, children and employees enjoyed the Christmas Tree lighting at Millennium Corniche Hotel where a beautifully-decorated tree took centre stage as little ones met Santa and received goodie bags, whilst playing around the Christmas tree in the main lobby area. Grown-ups revelled in true festive cheer too. 14

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REGIONAL HAPPENINGS

Di ary Dates For those of you thinking of jetting off around the region this month, we’ve rounded up some of the best events for you to check out in our neighbouring nations…

Qatar

Bahrain

oman

Where Qatar National Convention Centre, Doha When January 15 to 18

Where Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, Doha. When January 21 to 29

Where Oman International Exhibition Centre When Runs every weekend until December 13

Qatar Wedding Fair 2015 is an exceptional annual event which initiates pure luxury combining together the most exclusive designers in fashion, the most prominent hair and makeup artists and all the glitz and glamour of local and international jewellers, giving couples a captivating wedding of their dreams. For those who are planning to wed, there’s everything from food, theme, and location advice available from industry experts, to create your memorable day.

The popular shopping extravaganza is back! This nine-day consumer fair features thousands of products from around the world. From handy household items to mouth-watering food stalls, popular fashion and children’s toys, new products and old favourites – the Autumn Fair has something for everyone! Search out trendy trinkets and unique finds at bargain prices; it’s a shop-till-you-drop experience.

Travellers and tourists the world-over will come to Oman for the much-anticipated annual horse, camel and heritage expo. This event has become one of the most sought after gatherings in the region, bringing together horse and camel enthusiasts and featuring the cultural heritage of the region. There will be a number of fantastic activities, such as the exhibition’s pavilion; the camel shows, the painting competition and lots more!

Qatar Wedding Fair 2015

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

International Horse, Camel and Heritage Exhibition

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SOCIETY

#Sofitel #Corniche #Tree #Lighting The Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche kick-started a magnifique festive season with H.E. Michel Miraillet, Ambassador of France in Abu Dhabi and Nael El-Waary, General Manager of the hotel, officially lighting the Christmas tree in early December. All guests were entertained by Sofitel colleaguesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; choir and the Trix live band. 16

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LISTEN UP

Q & A : ub 4 0 ’ s mickey v irtue One of the highlights of the popular Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, taking place in Doha, is the entertainment. This year, reggae band UB40 is jetsetting over to our dusty peninsula from the UK to entertain the crowds. FACT caught up with Mickey Virtue, one of the original members of UB40 to talk music.

Even for those who aren’t a fan of the gentleman’s sport, the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters each year is the highlight on Doha’s calendar. For one night and one night only, international bands are lured to Doha so we can shake our stuff to their jingle jangle music. Since UB40 began in Birmingham in the late 70s, the British reggae band has sold over 70 million records. Known for their iconic singles, like Can’t Help Falling In Love, the band is one of the most famous and enduring in the world. Were you a musical child? I grew up in the 60s when the Beatles ruled the world, and the possibility of becoming a famous musician was suddenly up there with being a train driver or a doctor; the more oldfashioned career choices. It didn’t all come together for me until I met the rest of the band. Most bands begin with someone who writes the music and lyrics, and then puts together a band. We weren’t like that. None of us could play an instrument, so we had to learn. Whoever picked up a guitar would try that out, and if you bought a drum set, that was yours to play. We knuckled down and learned how to play. We all loved reggae music and we all wanted to play it. How did you get into reggae music? My dad is from Jamaica, so I was always exposed to Caribbean

music. I think everyone who hears reggae loves it; they just need the chance to hear it! It’s universally loved, but you don’t hear it on the radio as most radio stations are commercially run and only play the Top 40. That’s why we do what we do. We want to put it out there. UB40 was started in 1978 and you’ve all had such a successful career. Do you have any ambitions left to achieve? It would be nice to play every country in the world – we must have done about a 100 so far! For me, the big question always was, “Would we ever play in South Africa?” and we did and it was amazing! From the very first hit we had, it was a shock and surprise. Ever since then, we have tried to improve our sound, but we know it could all be over the next day so try to enjoy it. World domination has gone out of the window. What kind of music do you like to listen to? For me there is only good music and bad music. When I was a kid, my dad loved country and western music from America and I hated it. But now, I love it too and can really appreciate it, especially the influence that it has had on reggae. I think that everyone is capable of music, just as everyone has a book inside them. It’s down to how much you want to do it.

GO: Commercial Bank Qatar Masters is on from the January 21 to 24 at Doha Golf Course. Visit www.qatar-masters.com for more information.

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LISTEN UP

Q & A : M a r t i n K ay m e r

Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship will celebrate its 10year anniversary event later this month. FACT caught up with the world-famous golfer Martin Kaymer ahead of the January 2015 championshipâ&#x20AC;Ś Hi Martin! Having achieved so much in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship and other tournaments, tell us what keeps you motivated and excited about playing golf ? There is still so much in the world of golf that I am yet to achieve, and the day that I wake up on the morning of a tournament with no motivation or excitement to play will likely be the day that I stop. I know I have won three times in Abu Dhabi, but the thought of winning for a 4th or 5th time is extremely motivating in itself. My past success in Abu Dhabi is a great source of excitement for me, I love playing here and that gives me a huge amount of confidence going into the week. What are some of your cherished memories from the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship tournaments that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve played in? Having won the tournament three times I have some amazing memories of this tournament, and each win has been special in its own unique way. My first win 18

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here in 2008 was my first ever win on the European Tour and is obviously a memory that I cherish as it gave me a lot of confidence, knowing I could compete with some of the best players in Europe. It really helped my career kick on from that moment. My second win here, in 2010, taught me a lot about myself and the importance of sticking to my naturally aggressive style of play and my final and most recent win came in 2011 and I remember it just as fondly as my first. It was, and probably remains, the best four days of golf I have ever played, I only made one bogey during the week and felt as if nothing could go wrong. How much have you grown as a golf player from 2009 till date? In 2009 I was only 24 so the biggest change to my game since then has come about as a result of my experiences. Since 2009 I have been lucky enough to be a part of three European Ryder Cup teams, won two majors, the 2010 PGA Championship and the 2014 US Open and

“Personally, I think that the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship is truly one of the best tournaments on the European Tour calendar.”

become World Number One. All these experiences have taught me important lessons about myself and my game, such as when to be aggressive, to stick to my natural game, and to approach any shot with absolute conviction. The fact that I went through a bit of a dip in form and managed to come back from it in 2014, was also very pleasing for me and shows how I have grown both on and off the course. What is the secret behind your successful career as a golfer? There are so many factors behind building a successful career in golf and sometimes these are out of your hands but one of the obvious keys to success is to work hard and enjoy the game. What makes Abu Dhabi and this particular tournament special? It is always great to win and I have some very special memories from playing here over the past few years of my career. The event is always well run and year-

on-year has a world class field which helps to make the tournament so competitive. Personally, I think that the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship is truly one of the best tournaments on the European Tour calendar and I am proud that I have been able to lift the Falcon trophy on three occasions. HSBC are a great supporter of European Tour golf and really help to improve the event every year so I hope I can put in a good performance in 2015 for the 10th anniversary to thank them for their support! Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? I wouldn’t like to set specific targets. I know I can still improve and I will work hard so that I do. If you were to really press me for specific targets, I would like to win more majors, play in more Ryder Cups and climb up to the top of the rankings again, but those are targets, not expectations. GO: The 2015 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship takes place at Abu Dhabi Golf Club from January 15 to 18. Visit www.abudhabigolfchampionship.com for more information. fact magazine

HAPPENINGS

Getting Out & About This Month in Abu Dhabi

Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with happenings just for you! This is what FACT recommends (and you can still find more throughout the rest of the mag!).

4 7 9 12 15

SUNDAY

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY

MONDAY

THURSDAY

The Galleria Festive Market at The Galleria Mall

Motherland at Manarat Al Saadiyat Auditorium

Winterfest at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Citrus Promo at Le Café in Emirates Palace

2015 Abu Dhabi HSBD Golf Championship

It’s the last day to check out this superb market that brings out a festive quintessential holiday ambience with twinkling lights, a stunning Christmas tree, cheerful décor, tasty traditional treats, gingerbread decoration stations, a snow ball park for kids and a Santa Claus grotto. Sounds like fun!

TCA Abu Dhabi is proud to welcome the new star of the international piano scene, Khatia Buniatishvili. A multiple prize winner and distinguished as a BBC New Generation Artist. She will display her talent to the capital’s audience with a programme inspired by her latest CD, Motherland.

With only a day left, celebrate the magic of the holiday season at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi’s spectacular WinterFest, featuring a traditional winter village, acrobatic snow globe dancers, ice-skating rink, and a snow play area for children with a live puppet show and cookie decorating activities.

It’s all about citrus this month at Le Café. The talented pastry team at Emirates Palace has gathered your favourite citrus fruits to craft a selection of vibrant desserts. Indulge your sweet tooth with tarts enhanced with lemon, grapefruit, mandarin, and cumquats, in creative shapes and colours.

Head to Abu Dhabi Golf Club for this world-class tournament, running January 15 to 18. This event will see the world’s top players vie for the iconic Falcon Trophy and a cut of the $2.7million prize purse, during its 10th anniversary airing. There’ll be plenty of sporting fun mixed with great food, drinks and activities.

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HAPPENINGS

18 20232830 SUNDAY

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

Dinner at Fishmarket in InterContinental Abu Dhabi

The President Cup Falcon Competitions 2015

Amahl And The Night Visitors at Brighton College School

Bistro Night, Giornotte Friday Marina Brunch at The Ritz-Carlton at InterContinental Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi

FRIDAY

Allow Chef Sawai to transform your taste buds as he introduces the newest addition to an array of seafood, the John Dory fish. Enjoy the exquisite taste through a variety of cooking methods, delicate enough to melt in one’s mouth. Indulge in this fine seafood with a glass of something chilled.

Organised for its second edition from January 15 to 27 by, and taking place at, the Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club, with the aim of preserving and supporting the UAE’s heritage, this competition has lots of new features to further enrich the excellent entrants through different rounds, leading to a grand prize.

NSO Opera presents the Abu Dhabi Premiere of this classic seasonal opera by American Composer Gian Carlo Menotti. The fully-staged, one-act opera will feature professional opera singers, supported by the NSO Chorus, NSO Chamber Orchestra, led by NSO Symphony Orchestra Maestro Andrew Berryman.

Indulge in a celebration Settle down indoors or of classic bistro cuisine at out at The Yacht Club or Giornotte. The chef and Chamas for the ultimate his team have created waterfront brunch a menu encompassing experience. Then choose an extensive selection of from the very best of traditional bistro favorites, Chamas, The Yacht Club complemented by a well- and the Belgian Cafe stocked cheese station and for excellent food and sumptuous French desserts, drink, with live cooking priced at AED200++ food stations, choice cuts of only and AED260++ incl. meat, fresh mussels, pasta food and house beverages. and much more. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#Grand #Millennium #AlWahda #Tree #Lighting With a fabulous Gingerbread House for children to marvel and savour sweet treats, the Christmas Tree Lighting at Grand Millennium Al Wahda was a real festive celebration as guests were treated to delicious mince pies and a slice of stolen with merry melodies in the background. Santa dropped by with a bag of surprises too! 22

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New Year Fresh Start Who partied hard over the festive season and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve? Well, that was then, and this is 2015! A new year means new beginnings and new ways to enjoy life in Abu Dhabi. FACT is helping you to step up your social, wellness and overall everyday game with some new foodie recommendations, entertainment hotspots and fun tips for a more rejuvenated lifestyleâ&#x20AC;Ś

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FOODIE HOTSPOTS

2015 Foodie frenzy With a new year comes a slew of new dining venues to try. FACT has picked some of its best restaurants that we think will be making big moves of the Abu Dhabi food scene this year…

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe It’s rather surprising that Abu Dhabi isn’t really famed for its traditional Emiarti cuisine, and it’s no secret that visitor’s to the city don’t have the chance to try authentic Emirati fare, well, that’s until now! Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe has captivated the capital’s foodies with its excellent interior and exterior design and decor, as well as a fantastic menu full of Emirati staples of hot and cold appetisers, rice, seafood, and sweets. Using traditional flavours infused with cardamom and saffron, Al Fanar is one of the city’s few high-end Emirati restaurants serving regional dishes like delicious all-day breakfast dishes including Khoboz Khameer and Balalit, along with Arabicstyle biryanis, mouthwatering fish dishes and local favourites like harees (a silky porridge of cracked wheat and mutton) and Khanfaroush. If it’s really good Emirati food that you want to try, then this is the place to do it. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe is located at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal’s Venetian Village. Call (0)2 448 1144 for reservations and more information.

Stratos - Revolving Lounge Bar & Grill Coincidentally, this venue was previously a drab and dated rotating restaurant called Al Fanar, at the top of the iconic Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, and boy has it changed! The whole place has been massively revamped and decked out with plush interiors to create an ultra-trendy space for the city’s cool crowd to come and hangout. From its eclectric selection of freshly prepared drinks, the 360 views of the city, and the lavishly gastronomic 24

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experiences, Stratos’ motto is Journey of the Senses - promising to take guests on a true journey of the senses. Here’s why we think you should visit; one, it’s the only revolving bar and lounge in the city; two, the food and drinks menu is pretty exceptional (we recommend trying the Yellow Fin Tuna); and three, it holds some of the best parties and events in Abu Dhabi - so, what’s not to like?! This place is looking on the up (pun intended!) for 2015. Stratos is located in Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi. Open 3pm to 2am Monday to Wednesday, 3pm to 3am Thursday to Saturday, closed on Sunday. Call 800 101 101 for reservations and more information.

Rogo’s Restaurant Living in the UAE, you do get to see some real foodie feats, but, believe us, you ain’t seen nothing like this! Rogo’s is a roller coaster-inspired venue that’s turning the capital’s casual dining scene upside down with a menu of international comfort food delivered at speed. The restaurant, in the newly-opened Yas Mall, is a one-of-a-kind dining concept with unique visual appeal both on and off the plate. The focal point of the 14,000-square foot restaurant is the network of 30 individual roller coaster tracks that loop, spiral and spin in and around diners to deliver your food orders directly to your table. As well as its hitech and high-flying food delivery system, the 378-seat restaurant provides guests with a fully integrated ordering system in the form of individual handheld tablets that allow you to order from the carefully crafted menu of delicious specialties. Rogo’s Restaurant at Yas Mall is open 12noon to 10pm Sunday to Wednesday, 12noon to 11pm Thursday to Saturday. Call (0)2 565 0888 for reservations and more information.

FOODIE HOTSPOTS

Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor It’s finally here and it promises “art on a plate” according to frontman, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor. And he’s not wrong. Every dish at Signature, which stands for avantgarde Indian cuisine, is designed to make a statement. The fine-dining restaurant, located at the Nation Galleria Mall, really makes authentic Indian food the main focus here. The restaurant boasts a menu that integrates the best of traditional Indian cuisine with signature dishes that showcase quintessential Indian ingredients and cooking techniques. The ambience is elegant and the whole dining experience is enhanced with the addition of an extensive selection of spirits, cigars and cognacs, as well as a world-class vino list with the best labels, varietals and vintages from across the globe. We love that you can grab dinner and a show at the interactive tables where you get an opportunity to view the chefs cook your dinner from a fixed menu. This one’s for the hardcore foodies who want nothing more than to be impressed by good food and service! Signature By Sanjeev Kapoor is located in the Nation Galleria Mall. Call (0)2 666 4343 for reservations and more information.

The Foundry at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi This restaurant fast-became one of our absolute favourite places to dine after we reviewed it a few months ago. It’s still fairly new and went beyond our expectations on the first visit, so it rightly belongs on our list for dining venues that are we predict are going to make it big in 2015. The Foundry is a steaklovers haven with bountiful cuts from fine fillets to meaty rib-eye and marbled wagyu. The gastronomic surprises here are all about opportunities to indulge personal preference, from tailoring side dishes and sauces that complement the meat to selecting a luxury steak knife of fact magazine

FOODIE HOTSPOTS

choice. The venue also boasts the option of moving partitions for moments of privacy with family and friends. We’d highly recommend the Steak and Jazz Friday Brunch here, it gives a real insight into The Foundry’s incredible food and hospitality. The Foundry is located at the Southern Sun Abu Dhabi. Open 6am to 10.30am for breakfast, 12noon to 3pm for lunch, and 7pm to 11pm for dinner. Call (0)2 818 4888 for reservations and more infromation.

ZayZafoon Restaurant The newly opened ZayZafoon Restaurant and Lounge offers authentic culinary delights from Egypt and the Levant region. Located in Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, Baniyas City, this modern Arabic lounge restaurant gives guests the chance to indulge in the finest Arabic cuisine, including a wide selection of meat delicacies, mixed grills, soups and desserts. It also features a shisha lounge in an outdoor terrace area where you can enjoy the stylish ambience and a spectacular view of the city. ZayZafoon also offers themed event nights including entertaining Arabian live shows and music, BBQ and Grill, Shisha and Ladies Nights. This is a venue where you know exactly what you’ll get; decent food, a great setting and hours of entertainment. Make sure to plan ahead and turn up on a themed-night! ZayZafoon is located on level one in Bawabat Al Sharq Mall and can be accessed via the Food Court. Call (0)2 503 1490 for reservations and more information. 26

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ENTERTAINMENT HOTSPOT

Cinematic revelation One of the BIGGEST reveals for the end of last year was the spectacular 20-screen Vox Cinemas at Yas Mall, and if you’re a film buff or even the occasional movie-goer, keep reading because this entertainment haven will blow you away and we predict big things for it in 2015…

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ENTERTAINMENT HOTSPOT

Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas has ushered in the future of cinema entertainment for the UAE with its most ambitious project to-date, VOX Cinemas at Yas Mall. Film fans in Abu Dhabi are being treated to a series of firsts for the emirate, including the single largest cinema screen at 23.5 metres wide, the most screens under one roof with a total of 20, the first VOX 4DX cinema experience, two enormous VOX MAX screens, both home to Dolby Atmos multi-dimensional sound systems, the largest selection of VIP VOX GOLD cinemas, plus the country’s first child-friendly, branded party cinema. As the ‘must visit’ entertainment destination in Abu Dhabi, VOX Cinemas at Yas Mall is truly redefining the cinema landscape and customers will be spoilt for choice with all of the latest concepts available within one complex. The cinema shows Arabic, Hollywood, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Tagalog, Turkish and Russian films, as well as screening alternative entertainment including concerts, the opera, gaming tournaments, and live football games (sports on THE biggest screens - yes!). Similarly upgraded for the Yas Island location are the common areas, washrooms and even an expansive service counter with 22 cashiers servicing visitors at any point in time. VOX Cinemas has also invested in new digital scanning technology that will allow customers who have pre-booked tickets online, to simply scan their phone

and head straight to their pre booked seat, without the need to collect a ticket. Welcoming customers into the lap of luxury, this cinema has, not one, but three luxurious VOX GOLD theatres to cater to the growing number of film-goers preferring the most exclusive of cinema experiences. VIP treatment begins in the dedicated premium lounge, as guests can order from a newly launched three-course restaurant-style menu before they recline in the spacious, leather seats, with waiter service available throughout the film, whilst covered by a blanket, resting comfortably

VOX CINEMA HIGHLIGHTS 3 luxury VOX GOLD cinemas with fully reclining chairs, gourmet menu and waiter service. 2 VOX MAX screens equipped with breathtaking Dolby Atmos sound technology and the biggest screen in Abu Dhabi measuring a massive 23.5m. Introducing VOX 4DX in Abu Dhabi for the first time featuring motion chairs, rain, wind and even scent. Introducing a private, child-friendly branded cinema.

with a pillow, in your own private booth. Perhaps residents will be most delighted with the eagerly anticipated VOX 4DX concept, which was previously only available in Dubai. The 4DX effects elevate the film-watching experience by mimicking a range of sensations, all synchronised with the action on-screen to offer the most immersive experience possible in cinema today. You’ll feel every turn and every tremor along with the characters as if you were on the big screen yourself (now, how cool is THAT?). VOX Cinemas will welcome Abu Dhabi residents through its doors with a flurry of fun-filled activity, competitions and prizes. From a chance to win fast cars and tickets to red-carpet events with beloved characters, the calendar of events at VOX Cinemas, Yas Mall is already jam-packed for 2015! GO: Visit www.voxcinemas.com for more information.

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SOCIETY

#Al #Maha #Arjaan #Tree #Lighting A fun-filled Christmas Cheers evening took place at Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana to ring in the festive season and to inaugurate the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tree lighting ceremony. a special childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas choir performed all the favourite songs for this time of year. ATTENDING FAMILIES were able to meet Santa and enjoy a few hours of real seasonal joy. 30

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SPA HOTSPOTS

new year new you When it comes to pampering we should all be making more time for ourselves in 2015, especially as there are some fantastic spas in town. Here are just three with recommended treatments for all you busy souls…

Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara

Iridium Spa, St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

sense spa, rosewood ABU DHABI

This one is for pure relaxation through and through! The Red Flower Hammam Ritual is exclusive to Anantara Spa in Abu Dhabi. The product line has been developed based on cultural body-care rituals from around the world. The Red Flower Hammam Ritual is the perfect complement to Anantara Spa’s existing collection of Hammam offerings, each of which is inspired by the traditions of Arabian culture and the ideals of Thai hospitality. Indulge in an age-old ritual in Anantara Spa’s traditional Turkish Hammam, under the supervision of the traditional ‘tellak’, who skilfully guides guests through the ancient art of the hammam ritual. Created to draw deep impurities from the body and detoxify for a euphoric lightness of being, the Red Flower Hammam Ritual, is a six-step treatment based on the ancient Roman thermae and traditional Hammam bathhouses. This ritual succession has been practiced for almost a thousand years to heal, detoxify and relax the whole body. If you’re looking for a truly special escape, here’s where you can find it.

Not only is Saadiyat Island one of the most beautiful natural locations in Abu Dhabi, it’s also where you’ll find Iridium Spa at the lavish St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. During a recent treatment review, we were blown away by the interiors of this spa, which is spacious and offers guests more than just a changing area with a few treatment rooms. There’s a temperaturecontrolled Jacuzzi, a steam room, and a sauna, all connected to a parlour-style changing area which will immediately relax busy-bodies hoping to achieve complete relaxation. We would highly recommend the Hero’s treatment which consists of an ESPA back, face and scalp massage with hot stones, and lasts 120 minutes. Every product used is tailored to your own specific needs, whether it’s detoxifying, energising, relaxation or stress-release you’re after, ESPA has you covered. The use of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system. This, teamed with the massage will definitely leave you in a state of bliss.

Sense Spa is somewhat of a peaceful hideaway in the midst of fast city life. A mini escape made up of a massage, a facial, and a mani- pedi, is what we’d recommend here. The Sense Signature Journey, begins with a two-hour combination of the spa’s Signature Odyssey body scrub, followed by a quick rinse and then a relaxing Aromatherapy massage. This five-hour treatment exposes you to local healing traditions and ingenious ingredients delivered by the spa’s professional therapists. The luxury exfoliation involves a unique blend of almond and spice scrub to soften skin and prepare you for the Shea butterinfused massage, which, uses the ‘Rosewood Stick’ – a bamboo stick – and distinctive technique to relieve pain, improve circulation, alleviate backache and boost concentration levels. To Top off the journey is a Sense Waterless Pedicure and Meze Manicure completes this pure pampering package. It’s a bonus that you’ll even get served dinner in the relaxation lounge as part of the treatment - yum!

GO: Visit Anantara Spa at Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara. Call (0)2 656 1146 for bookings and more information, or email easternmangroves_spa@anantara.com.

GO: Visit Iridium Spa at St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Call (0)2 498 8996 for bookings and more information, or email Iridium.Saadiyat@stregis.com.

GO: Visit Sense Spa at Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Call (0)2 813 5537 for bookings and more information.

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SOCIETY

#Masdar #National #Day #Celebrations Masdar City and Masdar Institue marked the 43rd UAE National Day with fervour, flair and a Fun-Filled Community Event. The special Fridays@MasdarCity event offered families a host of free activities, including traditional Emirati performances, whilst the community at Masdar Institute celebrated with a host of activities to honour the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture and heritage. 32

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WELLNESS WONDERS

For: The Body Aloe Vera

Known for its incredible healing benefits when it comes to sunburn, this green plant has become a daily healthy habit for many. It aids in weight loss, digestion, immune function, and easing general discomfort. Drinking aloe vera gel on a daily basis can help build up the body’s defence system against oxidative stress.

Coconut Oil

If you’re thinking of updating your health shelf with just one product this year then make coconut oil the choice. Coconut oil is diabetic-friendly and those who use it in their cooking instead of soybean, olive, or corn oils will see a boost both in their metabolism and weight loss. Go ahead and get your jar of this miracle fat fighting product today!

For: The Mind E-Toxing

We’ve all heard of detoxing but in the modern day and age we live in now, a new form of switching off would be a great way to implement some peace of mind into your daily life. Disconnect yourself from Facebook, Twitter and all manner of social media or online activity and escape the grips of technology by reconnecting with your natural state. Head to the great outdoors where the words WI-FI don’t exist - out of sight, out of mind!

Meditation

A healthy body equals a healthy mind, and vice versa. Meditation is just one of the great ways to declutter your head and thoughts of the stresses we all face through the daily grind. Whether it’s yoga, Pilates or straight up meditation classes, there are some fantastic places around the city where you can join in the peaceful fun. Try beach yoga for starters.

For: The Soul Dancing

Ok, so this is an activity that will do wonders for the body and mind too, but it’s no secret that dancing can be great for the soul! In Abu Dhabi you’ll find everything from salsa, street, tap, tango, Zumba, and all that’s in-between. Instead of hours on the treadmill, pull out your smouldering moves which will inevitably help you achieve a more toned body and give you tons of energy too!

Water

Good ol’ h2O - do you get enough of it? Again, a healthy tip that ties together the wellbeing of the mind, body, and soul all together, drinking enough water can really help make a positive change to your lifestyle. Whether you want shinier hair, youthful skin or a healthier body, two litres of water is what you should be drinking daily. It’s the world’s best (and cheapest!) beauty elixir so make sure you tote a bottle with you on-the-go. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#InterContinental #AbuDhabi #Circo #Opening InterContinental Abu Dhabi held a grand opening for its newest dining venue, Circo, marking the debut of the acclaimed New York based restaurant group Le Cirque International (Maccioni Restaurant Group) in the Middle East. Guests enjoyed a taste of the delicious menu offerings, passed down through generations of the Maccioni family. 34

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HEALTH TIPS

HEALTH FOREFRONT When it comes to health, we all need a bit of a push in the right direction with our fitness, diet and even beauty regimes. Check out some of our fun and useful tips to get you started for 2015...

Fitness tips

number one

Embrace the power of 10

Ten minutes of walking three times a day has been shown to lower blood pressure more effectively than a longer 30-minute bout of walking.

number two

Take the stairs

The elevator at work or at the mall may be a nice convenience, but taking the stairs will strengthen your heart, burn extra calories, and tone your entire lower body.

number three

Choose activities you like

A lot of different things count as exercise: dancing, walking, gardening, yoga, cycling, playing basketball. To make it easier to get moving, choose whatever gets you moving.

number four

The hydration equation

Hydration is one of the most important aspects for a healthy and energised body. Try to achieve an intake of 0.033ml per kilo of body weight per day. For example a 70kg person should aim to drink 70 x 0.033 = 2.3litres. So make sure to load up on water.

Beauty Tips

Diet tips

number one

Use a moisturiser to avoid dry skin. Find a moisturiser that’s oil-based, rather than waterbased, as the oil will create a protective layer on the skin that retains more moisture than a cream or lotion.

If your diet contains too much sugar, you have a higher chance of weight gain and tooth decay. Cutting these foods out of your diet can significantly reduce your risk of these chronic health conditions.

number two

Having a hot bath during winter season does feel great, but the intense heat of a hot bath or shower can lead to loss of moisture in our skin. Lukewarm water is much better for a bath during winter.

Branch out beyond bright and dark green lettuce. Kale, mustard greens, broccoli, and Chinese cabbage are just a few of the options—all packed with calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, and K.

Moisturise more

Avoid hot baths

number three

Sleep on your back

Sleeping on your back will prevent many wrinkles and breakouts on your face. Sleeping on two or three pillows at a time, or putting a wedge pillow under your regular pillow will help get rid of dark circles under your eyes.

number four

Skin care routine

Follow a good skin care routine. Make sure to exfoliate to get rid of dead and dry skin that accumulates and makes your complexion appear dull. Use oatmeal as an exfoliator instead of a packaged product.

Avoid sugar

Go green

number three Mini-meals

Eat four to five meals or snacks per day, as it controls the appetite and your weight. Divide your daily calories into smaller meals or snacks, enjoying most of them earlier in the day; dinner being the last time you eat.

number four Reduce starch

You can save from 100-200 calories if you reduce the portion of starch on your plate and increase the amount of vegetables. Swap pastas with veggies!

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SOCIETY

#Nitro #Circus #UAE #National #Day #Weekend the action sport collective led by extreme sports legend Travis Pastrana performed a two-hour mega-show over the 43rd UAE National Day weekend. The stunt spectacular took place, for one-night only, at Zayed Sports City. The show was brought to the emirate by Alchemy Project in association with Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi). 36

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Healthy Habits

1 2 S t e p s T o a H e a lt h i e r Yo u I n 2 0 1 5 FACT has put together a fun and easy-to-follow monthly chart for those looking to make small but significant changes in 2015, for a healthier and happier lifestyle...

JAN

JUN

Cut out fizzy drinks to eliminate addict-like cravings for processed sugar which can lead to a slower metabolism, hypertension and a number of diseases like type 2 diabetes.

Meditate or sit in silence for at least 10 minutes every day. Meditation can restore a stressed state to a relaxed state as well as making you feel calmer and more emotionally controlled.

FEB

Eat vegetables with your snack or meal at least three times a day to curb any unhealthy cravings. Swap crisps for beet chips, and buttered toast for whole grain flat bagel with fresh ricotta.

MAR Get your sweat on and exercise everyday - 20 minutes is all you need, and can be easily achieved with simple changes like taking the stairs instead of the lift and going for a short walk on lunch breaks.

APR Get at least seven to eight hours sleep every night, it’s beyond important for your overall wellbeing! Lack of sleep can lead to overeating and weight gain, not to mention an increased risk of heart disease.

MAY Go meat-free at least once a week and you’ll be doing your body a whole lot of good. Regular meat-eaters tend to consume more fat which could result in high cholesterol, blood pressure, risk of diabetes and digestion problems.

JUL Drink water and lots of it! Start by upping your daily intake to between two and three litres every day. Water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells, and keeps you from feeling sluggish.

AUG

Eat good fats and get your Omega 3’s. You can do this by adding new ingredients to your meals a few times a week. Things like salmon, avocado, walnuts and eggs all contain healthy fats.

SEP

Kick it up a notch with your daily exercise routine or workout at the gym by increasing the time or intensity. Alternatively, join a dance class or start a new sport to challenge and better yourself physically.

NOV Cut out foods with hydrogenated oils, trans fats and high fructose corn syrup. This includes some cereals, pastries, ice creams, sauces, cakes, dairy products and snacks sold at the supermarket - read the label!

OCT

DEC

Be grateful. Gratitude is good for your health and you should practice it daily. Be thankful every time you eat or snack, and when you put on those trendy shoes and fancy dress, being grateful will uplift your overall mood.

Get cooking! Preparing your own meals at home is a fundamental step to healthier living. By making your own meals you know what’s going into them. Start with simple-to-follow recipes - it doesn’t need to take hours.

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SOCIETY

#Sheikh #Zayed #Heritage #Festival Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2014 attracted more than 100,000 visitors during its first week, bringing together UAE citizens, residents, foreign tourists and dignitaries from all segments of society. The festival offered numerous interactive exhibitions that reflect the rich Emirati heritage inherited from the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forefathers. 38

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Abstract Expressionist A m i r a Ra h i m

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Abstract art often bypasses the intellect and speaks to the heart rather than the mind.

ARTS

Speaking of colours, She’s a young expat Amira’s art is vibrant and who has been living in Abu screams positivity. What is Dhabi for the past two years, her colour selection process? and who has come a long way 01 “It’s completely intuitive,” in creating her masterpieces she tells us. “I am all about as well as an identity of her Seeing Amira’s abstract pieces from across the room triggers one reacting to what’s in front own through her colourful particular set of thoughts filled with shapes and colours. Intrigued of me. It’s freeing and scary art works. Born and raised in by her art, Pallavi Ramesh sits down with the Abu Dhabi-based and I love every minute of Newark, USA, Amira Rahim it. The only time I restrict graduated from the University artist to decode the beauty and intricacies of her paintings... myself to a specific palette of Pittsburgh with a degree is through commissioned in Sociology and a minor in work. Then it’s all about my Portuguese. “I always thought client,” she explains. Like that I am creative and loved many artists, Amira does go art, but I never thought I could through emotions while the brush is making strokes on the canvas. make a career doing what I loved; ART,” she exclaims. But, Amira did take up art as a career and at just 26-years- “Love, excitement, fear, pain, hope, pride, and humility are some old age she has grown leaps and bounds as an artist. I take her of the emotions that I experience each and every time I paint,” she back down memory lane, and ask if she remembers her first reveals. I then quizzed Amira about her creative process, specifically piece of art? “Of course, I was 15 and it was an acrylic still life painting of a basket of fruits,” Amira recalls. “I added an acrylic from the moment she picks up the brush, until she puts it back medium to create texture in the grapes and other parts. Even down. “I grab a tube of paint and pour it on my palette,” she then I was attracted to the impasto effect and sculptural quality begins. “With a brush and water, I mark the canvas, feeling the texture and grip of the surface and allowing myself to enjoy of painting,” she says. As a child and when she was a teenager, Amira loved drawing what I do. I apply more colour based on what I am feeling at houses, especially big, spacious homes. “Something about large that moment. “I take steps back and turn my canvas around several times. homes and mansions fascinated me,” she says. But over the years it changed. So, now as an accomplished artist, what is her inspiration? I then see what’s working in the composition and what needs “I’m inspired by people and colour,” Amira says. “I have always to be taken out or muted a bit” she explains. Lastly she likes to been fascinated by the human form, and capturing the likeness of add texture and gloss to make certain areas come alive. “It’s a a person, two dimensionally. I explore landscapes, animals, and the glorious time, I love what I do,” she says, happily. As an artist, Amira never thought she would become an human form, all in my abstract way, with lots of colour.” 40

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ARTS

“One piece of art close t o m y h e a r t, a n d s t i l l in my possession is P r ay e r R u g N o . 2 . . . inspired by one of my fa v o u r i t e p r ay e r r u g s .” abstract expressionist. When she started her practice in Abu Dhabi two years ago, she focused on realistic oil painting, but she didn’t feel challenged, from a creative perspective. “I would work for hours and hours on a piece and even though it was technically good, I knew it wasn’t me,” she admits. “I was so stressed with getting the painting to look a certain way, that I would be frustrated beyond consolation.” One day she decided to try an abstract landscape using acrylics. Then another, and one more, and bingo! She found her love of art. “And before I knew it I was addicted to abstract art,” she tells us. “I’ve been exploring this style of painting ever since.” Art is all about colour, happiness and talent; and Amira kept trying until she found what makes her happy, which we commend, immensely. But, will she branch out in the future? “I really enjoy abstract expressionist art at the moment and that’s my primary focus,” she replies. And what about her favourite piece of art? “Tough question,” Amira exclaims. “One piece of art close to my heart, and still in my possession is Prayer Rug No. 2, it is a large four-foot-long abstract painting inspired by one of my favourite prayer rugs. It hangs above my couch and I stare at it often. It makes me happy to see the colours and lovely glazes, I’m definitely attached,” she confesses. Till date Amira has displayed her art at two exhibitions in Abu Dhabi; one at Art Hub and the recent was at Brighton College. She is in the process of working on some more shows and exhibitions but at the moment she is enjoying her ‘me’ time in the studio and connecting with her audience. Has she created her dream piece yet? “I want to create a large scale, colourful, textured, bright, vibrant abstract painting.” she says. “I’m still waiting to reach my masterpiece.” With artistic talent so strong, we’re convinced Amira’s masterpiece isn’t far off, in fact, there’s a good chance that this young artist will be producing many a great artwork in the years to come! GO: Visit Amira’s website to check out her paintings, where you can even commission or buy a piece - www.amirarahim.com. 44

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Amira’s Tips for Budding Artists: 1. Start to sketch from life as much

as possible. It’s something I did as a kid and never knew how much it would come in handy as a painter. It’s never to late to learn how to draw, but you have to see it as something worth learning.

2. Understand the importance of values in a painting, and how they are used to create contrast and dynamic compositions. 3. Share your work even if it’s not great now, it will be at some point. Share it online and let people see it. 4. Make artist friends in the community and via the web. People closest to you may not get why you’re working so hard or why you’re not happy with a piece. It’s the friends that are artists who really come in handy both professionally and on a personal note.

5. Paint a lot; laziness is the worst thing you can succumb to as an artist. The artists that are great are years in the game usually. You won’t get any better sitting around watching them succeed. You have to get off the couch and make your dream a reality.

01 Deep Blue 02 Brave Heart 03 Garden Rain 04 In the Rain 05 Girls in Brooklyn 06 Fae Flowers

Also AvAilAble in ... bAhrAin & QAtAr

An Artistic Celebration ofRoll Arabic Culture Camera

NOVEMBER 2014. VOL 8 ISSUE 03 . BD 1 | SR10

SEPTEMBER 2014. VOL 4 ISSUE 5. QR10 | SR10

for Film Festival Fever

front.indd 1

Have a Haunted Halloween

8/31/14 11:13 AM

OctOber 2014. VOL 1 ISSUe 5. AeD 10 front_filmfestival.indd 1

9/29/14 4:25 PM

@FACTAbuDhabi | @FACTBahrain | @FACT_Qatar fact factmagazine magazine

45 .9

SOCIETY

#BA #Virtual #Reality #Experience #Launch Nicole Scherzinger helped British Airways launch the latest innovation, which allows customers to experience destinations in a virtual world before booking. The carrier is using â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Oculus Riftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; virtual reality headsets to bring three iconic US experiences to life through high grade, 360 degree video. 46

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it’s

time

travel

2015 is here and that means only one thing - time to start making new travel plans for the year ahead! We’ve rounded up our favourite pocket-friendly and uber-luxury hotspots, from a breathtaking mountain escape in Oman to a quirky retro hotel in New York City, there’s something to suit every travel budget for your next holiday destination…

fact magazine

Alila Jabal Akhdar Luxury Atop The Mountainside

I “ Alila Jabal Akhdar beckons the adventurous, lovers of nature and those seeking ultimate peace and relaxation. ”

f you don’t want to fly too far but still want to put some distance between your holiday destination and the everyday city hustle, look no further than the stunning Alila Jabal Akhdar resort. Around September and October, tourists and travellers from neighbouring countries flock to Jabal Akhdar, in the Sultanate of Oman, to sample the renowned flavours of the seasonal fruits harvested in the region. During the festive holiday season, the cool and crisp surroundings provide a mountain escape for a luxurious home-away-from-home experience and, at every other time of the year, a long and tranquil spa break is what attracts guests to Alila’s eco-conscious and uber contemporary resort. Alila Jabal Akhdar beckons the adventurous, lovers of nature and those seeking ultimate peace and relaxation. The luxurious accommodation is 2.5 hours away from Muscat and dramatically perched 2000 metres above sea level on a mountain side, overlooking a stunning gorge, with sensational views of the Al Hajar Mountains. There are 84 Suites and two Jabal Villas, Juniper restaurant, Rose Lounge, a heated outdoor infinity pool, meeting rooms, and Spa Alila and Fitness Centre, all boasting scenic views of the breathtaking mountains. You probably won’t get enough of the resort (it caters to pretty much every need - from relaxation to light activities, excellent dining and comfortable accommodation - you’re seriously well looked after) but we would highly advise to make the most of this unique location. The rugged mountains are one of Oman’s most compelling highlights, thanks to stunning landscapes that include Jebel Shams, the country’s highest mountain, and Jebel Akhdar, considered the fruit bowl of Oman. You can explore the small hamlets, uninhabited villages, caves, canyons and little roads and valleys when visiting the resort. The area is also a treasure trove for history and culture enthusiasts, who can explore the many heritage sites such as Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle and UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort. Imagine… a few days of solitude, nature and fresh air. Sounds like luxurious bliss! GO: Daily flights to Muscat with Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, Oman Air and Qatar Airways (resort offers pick-up/drop-off services from and to Muscat Airport). Call +968 2534 4200 for reservations and more information.

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GLOBETROTTER

The Jane NYC Retro Chic On Budget

hen it comes to “budget hotels” in big cities, you’re probably expecting the regular cheap hostel or backpacker hangout, but in New York City theres one place that’s changing the face of budget accommodation. At The Jane NYC, you won’t have to compromise on comfort, location, atmosphere or amenities, and what you will get is excellent prices. The Jane is what you’d call a boutique rather than a budget hotel, however, its affordable room rates and praised service means that first-time visitors to NYC, or those who are looking for something cheap in price, but characterful in nature, are likely to fall in love with this place. The Jane isn’t fancy (and it certainly isn’t trying to be!). It doesn’t have huge beds with luxury duvets, but, it has super comfortable and clean pod-like bunk and standard cabin rooms with enough space for holidays and short visits. It doesn’t have five-star dining or 24-hour room service, but it has a fantastic homely coffee shop serving delicious pastries and other yummy treats, and it’s one that is frequently occupied by the city’s cool crowd. The hotel is located in the chic and leafy West Village, minutes away from some of the hippest boutiques, bars, and restaurants in the city, as well as blocks away from SJP’s front porch! This place is packed with history; survivors of the Titanic stayed here while awaiting the inquest into the sinking in 1912. The interior reflects a worn historic style with an added touch of warm and inviting bohemian chic, in the form of stuffed animal heads, glitter balls, mismatched couches, palm trees and a grand fireplace in the Jane Ballroom. Even the lobby staff embrace the throwback theme in their vintage bell hop uniforms! Not ideal for families, but perfect for couples or groups of friends who won’t be spending much time in their rooms anyway. For a little extra you can opt for the Captains Cabins which have en-suite bathrooms, king or queen beds, wi-fi, and i-pod docking stations. Some have Hudson River views too so you’ll definitely be getting your money’s worth.

“This place is

packed with history; survivors of the Titanic stayed here while awaiting the inquest into the sinking in 1912.”

GO: Daily direct flights with Etihad Airways. Room prices are from AED290. Call +1 212-924-6700 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

GLOBETROTTER GO: Twice weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays, with Air Berlin, between Abu Dhabi and Kalamata via Vienna or Berlin. Call +30 272 309 5000 for reservations and more information.

The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino Luxury Getaway Greek-Style

etting there will take you the best part of a day, but, it’s SO worth it! If you’re tired of the usual European resorts in touristfilled cities and beach towns, then Costa Navarino will provide the ultimate luxury getaway for 2015. It’s inspired by elegant old Messinian mansions and the resort reflects this style with low-rise villa clusters made with natural stone to complement its unique location next to the virgin sandy beach and pristine hillside landscape. At The Westin it’s all about relaxing recreational facilities and soothing aesthetics. At this resort you’ll find 445 50

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deluxe rooms and suites, 131 of which are provided with private infinity pools and access to an extensive common pool area. You can choose from deluxe rooms, family rooms, and suites, all offering spectacular sea and sunset views. And though the resort is somewhat of a hideaway, you needn’t worry about being disconnected from the outside world (though that is also very easy to do!). Surf with high-speed internet access and enjoy an extensive in-room TV guide, video ondemand, and DVDs at request. You’ll have the best in amenities including the signature Heavenly Bed and Westin’s renowned white tea and aloe bathroom products. When it comes to dining, you’ve got 15 (yes, 15!) foodie choices. There’s everything from an authentic Greek restaurant, an al-fresco steakhouse, a Messinian taverna, a Middles-Eastern outlet, an ice cream boutique, and the outdoor-cinema incorporating Italian venue, Da Luigi, amongst many others. As far as free time

goes, you have the sea on your doorstep and a whole host of on-the-water and underwater activities; there’s a golf course; a stunning spa; a wide range of sports; and, best of all, the Navarino Outdoors programme which aims to help guests make the most of the unspoiled countryside around Costa Navarino through hiking, mountain biking and climbing. This is a family-friendly resort, as well as being a peaceful haven for solo travellers and couples too. It makes our luxury pick for 2015 because of its stunning and relatively unknown location, as well as the great facilities on offer for a really memorable getaway.

GLOBETROTTER

Ibis Styles Hotels Stylish Hotels at Budget Prices

rom Madrid to Munich, Birmingham to Bruges, and all the way from South America, to Europe, Asia and Australia, Ibis Styles has more than 300 hotels worldwide, and it’s one of the best budget accommodation choices for frequent travellers. If contemporary, comfortable, and a well-known hotelier name is what ticks your holiday boxes, then these trendy hotels are the perfect choice for your next break. There are four main hospitality goals that the Ibis Styles hotel serves; the first being the promise of somewhere you can get a really, really good night’s sleep. That’s right, the Ibis family doesn’t fool around with bedding - they’ve had sleep specialists help to create exclusive and uber comfortable duvets and pillows to ensure you’re well rested during your travels. Next up is the concept of designer colours; each hotel has its own vibrant and colourful rooms to reflect a creative, energetic, fun and friendly mood, with truly modern surroundings.

“The Ibis family doesn’t fool around with bedding - they’ve had sleep specialists help to create exclusive and uber comfortable duvets...” Thirdly, Ibis Styles offers an all-inclusive price (travel junkies say hallelujah!). The rate you’re charged per night always includes the room, an allyou-can-eat breakfast, free wi-fi access throughout the hotel, and lots of little perks that won’t cost extra, and that are designed to make sure you’re all settled as a family. With benefits including children’s TV channels in the room, a baby’s cot, a children’s menu and much more, Ibis Styles makes parents’ holidays easier and kids’ holidays more fun. This is No Frills accommodation at its best and with SO many worldwide locations, you could very easily plan a great trip with Ibis Styles hotels being the perfect stopovers along the way! GO: Room prices from AED170 (depending on the destination). Visit www.ibisstyleshotel.ibis.com for reservations and more information. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#Replay #Trunk #Show #At #BMI

REPLAY hosted a beach party launching its official partnership with Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE, the iconic beach lounge club born in Ibiza. During the event, the most fashionable guests mingled, enjoyed a special performance by musician Stephon LaMar, followed by a trunk show of Replayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s key pieces from the FW14/15 collection while indulging in the delicious Blue Marlin Ibiza UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Saturday brunch bites. 52

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REVIEWS

Big Screen

Leviathan

What’s it about:

A bleak drama where people in a remote Russian town are trapped by situations beyond their control. Drunkard Kolia lives in Barents with his soft-spoken wife Lilya and son Roma. When the towns corrupt mayor, Vadim, declares to demolish their house to make way for new developments, Kolia enlists the help of his old pal Dmitri, a slick lawyer from the city. But, the man’s arrival brings further misfortune.

Director: Andrey Zvyagintsev Cast: Elena Lyadova, Vladimir Vdovichenkov, Roman Madyanov, Aleksey Serebryakov Why it’s worth watching? It premiered at Cannes Film Festival where critics fell for the gripping villain; not any specific individuals, but rather the cold processes that empower them. Russian director Andrey Zvyagintsev once again shows his fondness for, bringing to the screen, characters trapped in worlds that are so far from their control. In Leviathan he does this on biblical proportions. Here, fear and cynicism are more central to the plot, in which only the heartless people in power can find pleasure. Amidst all that is depressing, Zvyagintsev makes sure that while several of the main characters in this sprawling ensemble piece face the prospects of their lives falling apart around them, they’re never too far away from another shot of vodka and ramblings about their circumstances. It’s this rather surprising tonal shift and the fact that the filmmakers, and actors, assail Russian society from the inside out, that we absolutely adore about this film. A definite must-see!

Highlights “ In Leviathan he does this on biblical proportions. Here, fear and cynicism are more central to the plot, in which only the heartless people in power can find pleasure. ”

Taken 3 What’s it about: Back for round three, Bryan Mills, an ex-government operative is accused of a ruthless murder he never committed or witnessed. He’s out to find the truth and those responsible for why he is being tracked and pursued. For this, a special set of skills are required to find the true killer and clear his name.

Leviathan

“ Liam Neeson is amazing. Fact. That voice is compelling. Fact. Seeing him pull off slick action scenes is captivating. Fact (sort of). ” Taken 3

Director: Olivier Megaton Cast: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen, Forest Whitaker Why it’s worth watching? Taken 3? When did this happen? And are we excited or are we cringing at the thought of seeing Liam Neeson take down the bad guys with all the might of law enforcement out to get him? Well, truthfully, we don’t quite know. Liam Neeson is amazing. Fact. That voice is compelling. Fact. Seeing him pull off slick action scenes is captivating. Fact (sort of ). But, are we impressed with the story? It’s somewhat predictable, following on from its predecessors. So, if you want surprising action then this will probably disappoint. If you want to see Liam Neeson be the perfect human being that he is, and escape from reality for a couple hours, go and get your tickets now. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#DJ #Nic #Fanciulli #At #O1NE #Yas #Island Grammy nominated producer and label owner, DJ Nic Fanciulli played at O1NE Yas Island, wrapping up an action-packed month at Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s super club. Party-goers danced the night away to the DJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s electronic sounds as he spINNED some of the biggest music hits into the early hours. 54

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REVIEWS

on the record

Fully Booked

CONTEMPORARY FICTION

The Queen of the Tearling By Erika Johansen

POP/ROCK/PUNK

R’N’B/HIP-HOP

The Pinkprint By Nicki Minaj

Miss Minaj is back with a rap vengeance,

and you know what? It’s as fierce and amazing as her attention-grabbing music videos. Admit it, when Nicki’s good, she’s very, very good, and we’ve heard plenty of new material from her upcoming third studio album, The Pinkprint: there’s the big-booty anthem Anaconda; the captivating ballad Pills N Potions; the Soulja Boy featuring Yasss Bish!; as well as the catchy Chi-Raq. And, thanks to an accidental track-list leak from Amazon France, we now know that the 16-song record will feature the likes of Ariana Grande and Beyonce (fitting as Nicki recently revealed in an MTV interview that this album’s title is a nod to Jay-Z’s famous ’01 LP, The Blueprint). We can tell you what we DON’T want from The Pinkprint - no cartoonish wigs and silly costumes and definitely no guest spots from underwhelming rappers (*ahem Lil Wayne). What we do want is a back to basics Nicki Minaj with her unmistakeable cut-throat lyrics, aggressive delivery, and priceless zingers, just like her early days!

American Beauty/ American Psycho

By Fall Out Boy When Fall Out Boy made their longawaited comeback in 2013 with the chart-topping album Save Rock and Roll, fans, and needless to say, music-lovers everywhere, were quick to voice how impressive the record was (we still sing along to My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (Light Em Up) at the top of our voice!). So, when the four-piece announced, on the famous Zane Lowe radio show, that the band’s sixth album will be released in Jan 2015, it’s no wonder we felt a mix of anxiety and excitement all at once. The title track, American Beauty/American Psycho, is a wild song. In all honesty, it didn’t grab us like the previous album’s hits, but we’re secretly hoping it’ll grow on us. On a more positive note, other previews off the album, including Centuries, and Immortals (on the Big Hero 6 soundtrack), were more like the pop-punk stalwarts sound that loyal fans will appreciate.

“In all honesty, it didn’t grab us like the previous album’s hits, but we’re secretly hoping it’ll grow on us.”

It’s Kelsey Glynn’s 19th birthday and she is being escorted, by soldiers, back to her place of birth, to take possession of what’s rightfully hers - the throne to her kingdom. Kelsea’s character is truly, rebellious, and, like many teens, she has high principles and believes she knows better than her elders. Kelsea will either become the most fearsome ruler the kingdom has ever known . . . or be dead within the week. If you’ve just read something so epic as Game of Thrones, or something as gripping as the world of The Hunger Games, then don’t expect to be thrilled with this read. BUT, if you’re looking for light fantasy with a butt-kicking heroine then this is the book for you.

BIOGRAPHY/NON-FICTION

City of Lies

By Ramita Navai Interestingly written and brimming with insights; City of Lies consists of eight intimate written portraits of eight Tehranian souls. Navai reveals their lives, their times, and (more often than not) their crimes, at least in the eyes of Iranian authorities, in a city where people are seemingly living one life publicly and another privately. Navai writes that it’s a place where “truth has become a secret,” in a book that provides a rich, absorbing and exotic insider’s glimpse into the local personalities, the unremarkable busy bodies and hysterical intrigues buzzing about the city.

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SOCIETY

#TRD #86 #Cup #Yas #Marina #Circuit The UAE’s motor racing fans were treated to two full days of close-fought, nail-biting racing action at Yas Marina Circuit. Ten UAE-based drivers lined up on the grid for the inaugural race of Yas Marina Circuit’s first ever, homegrown championship – the TRD 86 Cup. Spectators cheered on as both races of the TRD 86 Cup were tense affairs. 56

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The ferrari FF

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CITY RIDES

We take Ferrari’s massively powerful ‘shooting brake’ V12 for a two-hour drive through some of the most beautiful landscape in the world - leading to the Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Resort in the Liwa Desert - a suitably dramatic journey for a highly dramatic car!

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So, what does the ‘FF’ stand for? That would be ‘Four-wheel-drive’, and ‘Four seats’. Four-seater Ferraris are nothing new – they’ve been making them since 1949. Four-wheel-drive, however, is a very new thing, which has had Ferrari purists hemming and hawing. They needn’t be alarmed though, because the four-wheel-drive system is a masterpiece in engineering, with the rear wheels providing most of the power, and the front wheels kicking in only when needed through a second gearbox at the front of the car. ‘Only when needed’ means in comfort or snow modes and only between 1st and 4th gears. This essentially makes it safely driveable in all weather conditions, whilst still behaving like a rear-wheel-drive car when you want to go a bit mental. Maranello touts the FF as ‘the most practical Ferrari ever’, thanks to the shooting-brake design, which allows for

four very comfortable seats, with plenty of legroom and headroom in the rear, and decent storage if, (and it’s a big ‘IF’), you don’t have the spare wheel stored in there. What makes the FF slightly less practical is the size. It’s a surprisingly large car, which is deceptive, because you expect a Ferrari to have smaller, sports car dimensions. However, we parked it next to a Mercedes S Class in a hotel forecourt, to our amazement the FF was easily as long as the big luxury barge. Coupled with the very long bonnet and low seating position, this can make parking in a mall a jaw-clenching affair! The interior of the FF is a glorious place to be, with a great driving position, comfortable seats, leather padded surfaces everywhere you look, and that unmistakeable Italian Ferrari feel. We loved the steering wheel, with that classic Ferrari array of knobs and switches that make you feel like you’re sitting in a racing car. For example, there are the

CITY RIDES

What makes the FF slightly less practical is the size. It’s a surprisingly large car, which is deceptive, because you expect a Ferrari to have smaller, sports car dimensions.

rev lights across the top of the wheel that climbs into the red to let you know when to change gear. Then there’s the Ferrari manettino dial, which is the little red ‘fun’ switch that changes the car’s chassis settings between Ice (safe), Comfort (daily drive), Sport (traction control limited, bit mental), and ESC Off (traction control off, absolutely mental!). Then you’ve also got the engine start/ stop button, the damper button (set to soft for bumpy roads), indicators, washers and high beam, and it all feels like a bit much when you first climb in. However, after a few hours of driving it all becomes second nature, and once you’re used to it, it feels amazingly intuitive, with your fingers going instantly to the buttons you need without even thinking about it. The best thing about the FF, though, is that utterly beautiful 6.3l, 660hp, 683Nm naturally-aspirated V12. It’s glorious, fact magazine

CITY RIDES

and quite simply the fastest car I’ve ever driven. Power delivery is furious and linear, with a soul-stirring Ferrari howl, and just doesn’t stop. It’ll hit 100km/h in 3.7 seconds, which admittedly isn’t the fastest I’ve ever reached 100 before, but the amazing thing is how it will just keep accelerating on from there. We didn’t quite hit the 335km/h top speed, but we weren’t too far off, and it will quite happily cruise at 180km/h like it’s the simplest thing in the world! The downside? It devours fuel at an eye-watering rate. Over the four days we had it, we had to completely refill the tank twice, bearing in mind it was full when we picked it up. Yes, we did many hours of driving, but to even consider what this car would cost you to run in Europe made our credit cards twitch in fear. But then, anyone who could afford a Ferrari thinks nothing of such trivial matters! Power is transferred to the road via the incredible seven-speed double-clutch gear-box, with gear changes so fast they’re almost imperceptible to the human brain. 60

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It’ll hit 100km/h in 3.7 seconds, which admittedly isn’t the fastest I’ve ever reached 100 before, but the amazing thing is how it will just keep accelerating on from there. When combined, the engine, gearbox and transmission create something that is truly unique in this world. When considering the FF, the question should not be: Is this still a real Ferrari? The question should be: For a comfortable and practical four-seater, four-wheel drive car, does it still feel like a Ferrari? And the answer to that is, yes, it most certainly does! It’s a supercar that you can live with every day, and enjoy every last minute of every drive, whether it’s to the shops, or to another country. It’s superb!

READ IT ONLINE http://issuu.com/hadag

@Hadag_Me

A new publication from Nans Group, the company that brings you a portfolio of leading magazines fact magazine from across the GCC.

MOTORING NEWS

Mercedes-Benz UAE N a t i o n a l D ay C o m p e t i t i o n Winners Winners of the recent UAE National Day competition run by Mercedes-Benz Middle East & Levant go the chance to see their entries brought to life as custom-wrapped decals on a convoy of GL-Class models. Entries were submitted from across the Emirates through Mercedes-Benz Facebook and Instagram accounts, with the most eye-catching, creative designs judged as those from: Prakyath Rai, Ryan Cristobal, Erwin Fernandes, Bushra Nasr, Majda Zada and Nazim Maroof. In addition, three GL-Class models were wrapped thanks to designs from three local emerging artists - Ali Alosh, Maliha Naseem and Rashid Al Mulla. The convoy of 10 custom-wrapped GL-Class models passed iconic landmarks in Dubai before proceeding to Abu Dhabi. The Mercedes-Benz UAE National Day convoy generated much interest from the community, both on the ground and through social media. The campaign reached 1.3 million people on Facebook with over 58,500 likes, comments and shares. On Instagram, the campaign generated over one million impressions and on Twitter the campaign had over 267,000 impressions and 69 retweets, favourites and mentions. Mercedes-Benz fans can view the competition entries using the following hashtags: #MBSpiritofTheUnion or #MBNationalDayUAE. 62

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T RD 8 6 C u p K i c k s O f f a t YMC Motor racing fans were treated to close-fought, nail-biting racing action in December as the inaugural TRD 86 Cup opening weekend kicked off at Yas Marina Circuit. Ten UAE-based drivers lined up on the grid for the inaugural race of Yas Marina Circuit’s first ever, homegrown championship. Spectators cheered as German driver Karim Al Azhari crossed the finish line in first place, closely pipping Emirati Shihab Al Faheem to ensure that race one of the opening round of the TRD 86 Cup was a tense affair. Later that day, the drivers were back on track for race two, with the grid reversed from race one. Following a head-to-head battle, Al Azhari stormed through the field to claim his second victory of the day, again just beating Al Faheem by the smallest of margins – a mere 0.579 seconds. “It’s been a wonderful day of motor racing,” said Al Azhari. “The organisation of the event was first class, very professional and I’m just pleased to have the opportunity to race here. This was a very special day for me and my team.”

MOTORING NEWS

2015 Infiniti QX80 Hits the Gulf

Infiniti has launched the latest enhanced version of their flagship full size SUV, the new 2015 QX80 across the Gulf. The new QX80 boasts a fresh new exterior design, a more crafted interior, additional standard features and technology and will come in two Grade levels – QX80 Excellence

All-New Land Rover Discovery Sport Unveiled

Grade and QX80 Luxury Grade, both with the option of seven or eight seats. The extensive exterior design refinements focus on the QX80’s frontend appearance, with new upper grille shape and added lower grille. The revised front fascia also features new LED high/low beam headlights, LED turn signals, LED fog lights and a new bumper with flush-mounted sonar sensors. An extensive suite of advance safety systems is standard with the QX80 Luxury Grade including Front Emergency Braking and Front Collision Warning System, Blind Spot Warning, Blind Spot Intervention, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention. The proven 5.6-liter V8 engine combines Infiniti’s VVEL technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline to produce 400 horsepower and 560Nm of torque through the standard 7-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new Discovery Sport was unveiled at an exclusive event at the Yas Links Golf Club last month. It’s due to hit showroom floors in the region sometime in early 2015. The new model was also recently awarded the coveted five-star Euro NCAP Safety Rating, confirming its status as one of the safest vehicles on the road. The premium compact SUV boasts cutting edge styling inspired by the new Range Rover Sport, and features a number of cutting-edge safety features, such as an all-new pedestrian airbag which is a first in the small-SUV segment. This feature deploys from the upper-rear surface of the bonnet

within 60 milliseconds upon detection of a pedestrian impact to reduce the risk of serious pedestrian injury. Another first for Land Rover is the Autonomous Emergency Braking system, which uses a digital stereo camera mounted next to the rear view mirror to detect objects that could pose a collision threat, delivering visual and audible warnings and automatically applying the brakes if a collision is imminent. In all variants, including 5+2 seat models, all seating positions are assessed to ensure a high standard of occupant protection for people of all ages, including young children. fact magazine

MOTORING

FACT’s Five Favourite Cars For 2015 There have been a number of exciting launches over 2014 for the 2015 model year, though far too many to put on these pages. Here are a few of our favourites…

T o y o ta Ya r i s We had the opportunity to experience this economy hatch recently, and we were honestly surprised by how much we liked it. From the styling to the bold new colours to the impressive list of features now available, this is a low-cost offering that gives great value for money on top of the added practicality of a five-door hatch. The 2015 Toyota Yaris hatch is everything you want from an economy car, and then some.

Kia Quoris Kia has been making waves in the automotive industry over the past few years, and it’s entirely down to great models like this. The 2015 Quoris won an International Car of the Year award from the LA Auto Show, and it’s easy to see why. With handsome styling that instantly impresses, great standard features, a good safety rating, and a muscular 3.8l V6 engine, the Quoris is the latest in a list of models that’s elevating Kia to the top of its game. 64

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MOTORING

Land Rover Discovery Sport Land Rover don’t have a great track record with compact SUVs in the Middle East. The Freelander was very poorly received, and the LR2 fared no better. However, that is all about to change with the Discovery Sport. One can instantly see how Land Rover are tying it to the more premium Range Rover marque, firstly with the ‘Sport’ in the name, and secondly with the styling. The design cues inspired by the Evoque are instantly recognisable, and work extremely well. We think the Discovery Sport is going to be a turning point in the segment for Land Rover.

M a s e r at i Q u att r o p o r t e GTS We were lucky enough to experience the whole 2015 Maserati range late last year, and while the GranTurismo MC Stradale Centennial was the belle of the ball, our personal favourite was this, the Quattroporte GTS. To us, there’s simply no other premium sedan that straddles both worlds of luxury barge and exotic sports car quite so well. Comfortable in normal driving, and glorious in sport mode, the sound of the engine alone is enough to win you over!

Mercedes S Class Coupe The Mercedes S Class is one of the world’s most luxurious and technologically sophisticated cars. What’s not to like about a sportier, two-door version? The S Class Coupe, which replaces the outgoing CL, features as optional the same pioneering Magic Body Control Technology as first seen on the S Class. This groundbreaking technology actually reads the road surface in front of the car and adjusts the suspension accordingly for maximum comfort. Incredible stuff! fact magazine

PLUGGED-IN

your music. make it vibrant.

bose soundlink colour bluetooth speaker Listen to your music loud and clear, with the new Bose Bluetooth speaker; as it plays your favourite tunes anywhere, anytime. When it’s Bose, you can be rest assured that the best is in your hand. FACT brings you all the incredible features of this colourful portable device…

Size and Style

It’s small, durable and easy to use! The speakers come in a spectrum of colours to match almost any personal style; the compact shape fits easily into your bag or backpack.

The speaker has a range of about 30 feet, which can be paired to your smartphone, tablet or any other Bluetooth devices. Voice prompts talk you through Bluetooth pairing, making it simple. And the speaker remembers the eight most recent devices you’ve used, so reconnecting is even easier.

Sound Quality

Don’t let the small size fool you. It may be compact, but it delivers a satisfying listening experience. Proprietary technologies and a unique design produce clear, well-balanced, full-range sound. 66

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Battery Life

Battery performance varies depending on the content and the volume at which it’s played. In typical usage, a fully charged battery lasts up to eight hours. The light is green for a full charge and amber for medium charge and red when battery life gets low. On a wall charger, the rechargeable lithium-ion battery gets full in three hours.

Simple to use

This device is extremely easy to handle and use, with minimal controls. It features power, volume and source buttons. You control other functions from your Bluetooth device. Simply designed for ease of use!

GO: Available to buy from all major electronic stores.

PLUGGED-IN

App-licious Today’s tech-savvy generation of smartphones and tablets means the world is at your fingertips, literally! FACT has three great apps to download for your device, keeping you plugged-in to all the best techie help for every area of life...

PRODUCTIVITY Evernote (Android & iOS)

For writers, students, and people who rely heavily on notes in their work or daily lives, Evernote is a powerful productivity tool with intelligent features. It’s like a digital notebook that stores photos, web pages, notes, PDF files, audio clips, and to-do lists. What’s great about Evernote is its indexing feature. Once you add things to your notebook they’re completely searchable and can be accessed on your desktop, the web, or your mobile device.

NEWS/ENTERTAINMENT Ask Me Anything (Android & iOS) If your aim for 2015 is to be a little more clued up on the world’s top personalities, that includes everyone from film stars, to astronauts, artists and global leaders, then download this app now. You can even ask a question, directly to the big names, when they’re marked as active! Everyone from Woody Harrelson, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and President Obama have participated in Reddit’s popular AMA interviews.

HEALTH/FITNESS Runkeeper (Android & iOS)

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to step up your fitness game then RunKeeper is the app you need. It acts like your own personal trainer, and it’s especially great for runners and power walkers. The app tracks your running pace, the route you take, measures workout distance, elevation, and calories burned. It also tracks walks, bike rides, work outs and all other fitness activities. RunKeeper is perfect for improving your everyday fitness regime.

Download our app for FREE!

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Step 1 Download FACT to your device and flick through at leisure.

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Step 3 A number of social networks will drop down. Choose yours and hit post!

Please note: the fact app is available for IPHONE, iPad and ANDROID. It will soon be available on other platforms too.

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SOCIETY

#Fatema #Al #Fardan #Maiden #Collection #Launch Emirati Fashion designer, Fatema Al Fardan, recently burst onto the fashion scene with the launch of her maiden collection in Dubai. launching her first collection, the SS15, a special event was held at the artistic JamJar Warehouse in Al Quoz where media, bloggers and VIPs got together in a setting that brought to life Fatemaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cutting-edge world. 68

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: ass l C & Comfort Massimo Dutti

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fashion focus

hers

Discover the enchanting comfort line of Massimo Duttiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection 2014 which offers effortless elegance, perfectly polished tailoring and an impeccable taste of style to keep you in vogue and cosy throughout the cold season.

Satisfy your sophisticated style cravings this season with urban and ultra-feminine garms by Massimo Dutti. Make way for a collection that is the dream of every city dweller; practical, elegant and contemporary; who believes in her style and knows what she wants. The collection comprises of different fabrics, but also accessories and fragrances. Talking about style, the collection mainly focuses on tailored outerwear, chunky knits and fall accessories including scarves and gloves. There is a masculine touch to the outfits, which can be seen in the over-sized coats and jacket suits. A visible contribution from fur, wool, leather and cashmere fabrics in this collection, is an appealing touch. Look out for stylish checked suit, chunky XL and ankle boots, and an insane selection of winter colours to choose from which include, beige, taupe grey, indigo, camouflage and a visible appearance of Botanato print. 70

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FASHION FOCUS

his

‘Dress to kill’ is the apt way to summarise the brand’s men’s collection. This season brings with it the purest essence of Massimo Dutti, and winter wraps it in garments that are hard to forget.

Consolidating the metropolitan man, this collection radiates a unique personality with a fusion of tailor-made and casual which can be seen in the balanced blend of suits with ankle boots, cashmere sweaters or waistcoats. Enhance your personal style with the brands fresh tailoring concept, offering suits, jackets and shorts with established patterns, colours and fabrics. Select your favourite winter fabric from the commonly used wool to stylish cotton options which can be paired with a leather jacket and double buckle boots. Create your fashion trend with established patterns that can never go wrong! The brand’s tailoring service offers cuts to best enhance a personal style and the individual personalisation of buttons, linings and lapels are also a part of the personal tailoring service giving the garment an exclusive Massimo Dutti touch. fact magazine

Fashion Focus

Shop the brand Here is our wishlist from Massimo Dutti’s Fall-Winter 2014 collection. Shop the SEASON’S LOOKS AT ANY MASSIMO DUTTI STORE IN THE UAE.

for her

for him

01 winter look for her 02. Umbrella – Black and Military shade 03. Bucket Bag with zip 04. Black Leather shoes 05. Medium size Carrier Bag 06. Messenger Handbag

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01. winter look for him 02. Double Buckle Boots 03. Leather watch with Military strap 04. Leather travel bag 05. Leather Sling bag and Wallet 06. Double-colour ankle boots

Coming soon... ... to Abu Dhabi ABU DHABI

THE ESSENCE OF STYLE

CHEAP

OVER 65 LOOKS TO

THRILLS

LUX FOR LESS

MAKE YOU FEEL PHENOMENAL

YOUR STAR BUYS FOR SPRING CATWALK REPORT

GUCCI

Anja Rubik’s

FOR THE EFFORTLESSLY ELEGANT WOMAN

MODEL STYLE

BEHIND

THE ANIMAL HEART NINA PERSSON

MEGAWATT FASHION

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OHLALA!

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ISSUE 1

ABU DHABI AED20

STYLE

70’s Retrograde THIS IS A VINTAGE AFFAIR SO EXPECT rich, earthy tones of mustard, umber and natural browns, as well as kaleidoscopic prints to take over for a sophisticated throwback.

01. MONSOON 02. BERSHKA 03. TOPSHOP 04. MISS SELFRIDGE 05. MISS SELFRIDGE 06. BERSHKA 07. BERSHKA 08. NEW LOOK 09. TOPSHOP 10. CALL IT SPRING 11. RIVER ISLAND 12. TOPSHOP

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STYLE

Man About Town CLASSIC MEETS MODERN, WITH A FOCUS ON TAILORING TO GUARANTEE A PROFESSIONAL POSTURE WITH LAID-BACK SHIRTS, DUSTER COATS AND NEAUTRAL LAYERING FOR A SUAVE SEASONAL STYLE.

01. MARKS & SPENCER 02. BERSHKA 03. mENS AT DUNE 04. NEXT 05. ALDO 06. NEXT 07. TOPMAN 08. BERSHKA 09. TOPMAN 10. F&F 11. mARKS & SPENCER 12. TOPMAN

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SOCIETY

#Kim #Kardashian #West #Perfume #Launch Kim Kardashian West visited Dubai to unveil her latest fragrance ‘Fleur Fatale’ at the Parfum Monde Showroom. The star was dressed in a black midriff-bearing ensemble as she posed for photographs with the bottle of perfume in hand. Parfum Monde has the world’s most expensive gift delivery system in place using Bugatti Veyron, Lamborginis, AND Ferraris. 76

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beauty

Touch of beauty For all you beauty queens out there… FACT has your makeup needs covered this season from top to toe.

Radiant Solution

Beauty Essential Sephora introduces ‘Beauty Toys’ which includes an array of unique, funky and cool products to choose from, perfect as a gift for a friend or a treat for yourself. This ultra chic ‘Brushes to go’ set of four mini brushes can be removed easily to create beautiful party looks, when applying makeup on the eyes or cheeks. A special mention has to be given to the mirror that’s included for touch-ups to ensure that every look stays flawless. Sephora Beauty Toys – Brushes to go by Sephora

Estée Lauder introduces Perfectionist Youth-Infusing Makeup SPF 25, offering the next generation in age-defying skin-perfection. This foundation is infused with Estée Lauder’s youth-enhancing Perfectionist Serum technology to deliver real skincare benefits and to transform the look and feel of skin. This superperforming silky makeup glides on seamlessly leaving complexions looking luminously radiant and glowing. Perfectionist Youth-Infusing Makeup by Estée Lauder

Blazing Boost

New Year, New You!

Arabian Touch

Elemental Herbology’s revitalising Fire Zest Body Massage oil is a fresh and stimulating body oil and an ultimate cure for jet lag and chronic fatigue from the holiday season. It’s a brilliant revitalising agent for lethargic, worn-out bodies! Packed with basil, rosemary and sweet orange, this fiery energiser is guaranteed to fuel the body and mind into action.

Discover a way to enhance your beauty with Neu Cosmetics, offering products containing nutrient rich formulas that fortify eyelashes, eyebrows and hair. The neuBROW serum improves the weak appearance of brows caused by aging and everyday beauty routines. It restores the appearance of youthful brows, promoting strength, suppleness and shine.

Gueralin introduces its new addition - Santa Royal; the aura evoked by this fragrance is devoted to sandalwood. Santa Royal is a fragrance with oriental, woody and spicy notes; Neroli and cinnamon are warm and vibrant and appear at the top, accompanied by an essence of roses and a subtle fruity accord. Other amber, leather and oud accords highlight and accentuate the essence’s elegant sensations.

Fire Zest Body Massage Oil by Elemental Herbology

neuBrow by Neu Cosmetics

‘Santa Royal’ by Gueralin

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SOCIETY

#Alnuballa #Nursery #Opening

Smart Reader Worldwide速 jointly hosted the official launch and grand opening of Alnuballa Smart Reader Kids Nursery, located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Plot 171, Zone 25, Villa 1. The event marked an auspicious day for Smart Reader Kids速 Nursery and yet another milestone in the advancement of early childhood education, care and development.

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“Here, the restaurant is cosy so I can interact more with the customers and help them to really have a good Italian dining experience.” – Chef Andrea Buson.

Italian Flavours at Spaccanapoli Ristorante It’s no secret that Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi is home to some of the city’s most popular dining venues, and the hotel’s Italian offering is no exception. FACT went to Spaccanapoli to meet up with the new man in the kitchen, Chef Andrea Buson, to see if this Italian eatery lives up to our foodie expectations… fact magazine

CHEF’S TABLE

“An Italian restaurant with an authentic influence. Spaccanapoli has an innovative style, from its deliciously different culinary delights right through to its stylish appointments. With two floors of Italian rustic styling and an extensive menu all set around Spaccanapoli’s Metre Long Pizza Oven, along with home made pasta, gluten free options and Italian classics, Spaccanapoli will have you coming back again and again.”

e arrive at Spaccanapoli just after lunchtime – it’s around 2pm – and, honestly, we’re surprised (and delighted) to see that the restaurant is still buzzing with diners having a late or leisurely lunch. This is good. If the restaurant is full with guests then that can only mean one thing – the food must be great, right? Well, we were about to find out. We head to the book-lined bar area and quickly sink into our seats, it’s so easy to feel right at home here, another trait of Italian eating; a homely atmosphere. The venue is pretty, simple and has a very rustic feel. There’s an elegant ambience with stone walls, intimate lighting, and beautiful dining tables awaiting customers. There’s even a fireplace, which helps to set the tone of what is definitely one of the most charming restaurants we’ve been to in Abu Dhabi. Walking past a small, but very inviting, lunch buffet packed with classics like olives, cheese, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, Carpaccio, flatbread, and more, we’re excited to meet Chef Andrea and try some of the menu items. But before that, we follow the incredible smell all the way to the bread station 80

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in the main kitchen, where fluffy fresh bread is cooking away in the oven. Today, Chef Andrea is preparing a fabulous tasting menu for us, which includes Guinea fowl terrine with pistachio and truffle, pumpkin chutney and spicy crouton; Prawns gratin with crab meat, fresh leafs and sundried tomato; Carnaroli seafood and lobster risotto; Sea bass fillet Ligurian Style with taggiasche olives, capers, pine nuts and cherry tomato; and Pumpkin and pears strudel with vanilla sauce. We sit down with Chef Andrea and hear all about his culinary journey, which spans across three continents – he’s worked in big resorts in Egypt, Macau, Vietnam, as well as gaining the bulk of his professional cooking practice in Italy and Spain. With such diverse knowledge and experience we’re eager to find out what authentic Italian influences or changes Chef Andrea has made to Spaccanapoli’s kitchen. “When I came here, the first thing I tried to do is get back to authentic Italian food,” he says. “The previous chef had left six months ago and I could see that some things needed adjusting. “I changed some ingredients and some cooking methods, step by step. That’s what I’m doing - trying to give the best Italian food experience,” he adds. As we tuck into the delicious Guinea fowl terrine, an unusual out-of-the-box dish, which tastes exceptional with the pumpkin chutney, we ask Chef Andrea what made him leave Italy and venture out into the cooking world. “I wanted to move outside of Italy to see how Italain restaurants are in other countries and pick up more experience,” he explains. “In Egypt, and Asia, especially, I learned that in many other countries they had to put a twist on the Italian cuisine, and, in a way, make it really not Italian, in order to get customer feedback.” This happens to be the tricky thing with Italian cuisine; it’s a simple cuisine, though many chefs want to

put a creative spin on it in the hopes of wowing diners. Not Spaccanapoli – and this happens to be a good thing. Chef Andrea and his team are aiming to take traditional dishes and highlight Italian tastes with good, fresh ingredients and authentic condiments. Basically, if you want flavourful Italian fare, in the heart of the city, this is the place to find it. Our two absolute favourites from the menu that Chef Andrea prepares for us include the Carnaroli seafood and lobster risotto and the Pumpkin and pears strudel with vanilla sauce. The carnaroli medium-grain rice used in the risotto is perfectly cooked and wellcomplemented by the mouthwatering seafood, whilst the strudel is a delightful wrap of sweetie goodness. Chef Andrea tells us that his goal over the next year is to “give the most quality Italian food to customers and try to be the best Italian restaurant in town.” If he and his team keeping cooking this way then we’re sure it won’t be long for Spaccanapoli to achieve this!

Here, the restaurant is cosy so I can interact more with the customers and help them to really have a good Italian dining experience. This is very important - for the people to see the chef and in big resorts this is very difficult to do.

GO: Spaccanapoli Ristorante is located on the Mezzanine Floor of Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street. Open from 12noon to 11pm, call (0)2 616 6261 for reservations and more information.

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SOCIETY

#Al #Huzaifa #Furniture #Showroom #Opening

Al Huzaifa Furniture, a pioneer in home fashion and renowned for its exemplary craftsmanship, has now opened a showroom for Abu Dhabi residents. Showcasing and shaping a heritage of fashion and elegance, Al Huzaifa inaugurated on the red carpet their exclusive showroom at the Abu Dhabi Plaza on Hamdan Street, bringing a fresh approach and century-old family lineage to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest furniture store.

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Carluccio’s: Authentic Italian Fare For Foodies •

There’s a serious player in town for Italian food. The world-famous Carluccio’s is making its mark with the city’s foodie community, serving up traditional and homely Italian dishes teamed with excellent service in great venues. Shabana Adam went to see if the restaurant really lives up to the hype…

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VENUE REVIEW

“The menu is welldesigned, clear, and very appealing, dotted with select images of certain dishes at Carluccio’s. There’s nothing pretentious about the food offerings here, they’re simply Italian through and through.”

aving been to a number of Carluccio’s around the world - England, Turkey and Qatar, to name but a few places - I had the usual high hopes on my way to the Italian eatery in Galleria Mall, on Al Maryah Island, and what I found was, truthfully, beyond expectations. Now, let’s make one thing clear, Carluccio’s isn’t a fancy, high-end, posh-nosh type of place. And it isn’t trying to be either. What it is, is simple. A tidy restaurant full of little quirks and characteristic charm. The venue is nothing short of impressive; cool, modern lighting fixtures hang from the ceiling as well as in the form of standing lamps. The decor has a European edge with its fresh, neutral interiors and trendy chic touches like food-themed wall art and shelves housing books, frames and condiments. The restaurant itself is large with ample seating options including comfy sofacushion seats and spacious wooden chairs. There’s even a high-table bar area, perfect for those who want to grab just a drink or dessert, whilst the rest

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of the venue caters for diners who want to come alone, with friends, and even families with small children, who want a full-on meal. I turned up at Carluccio’s with a laptop in-tow and found myself a quite seat at the far end of the restaurant where the sound of the acoustic music played softly in the background. What I wanted from this visit was simple; a place to relax and catch up on work emails, whilst filling up on some hearty Italian food. The waiting staff have, by now, greeted and seated me and I’ve already asked for the wi-fi password, which happened to be ‘goodfood.’ This, automatically, sets the laid-back mood at Carluccio’s and tells me that the venue has a fun, chilled-out vibe where it is, in fact, all about serving up good food. The menu is well-designed, clear, and very appealing, dotted with select images of certain dishes at Carluccio’s. There’s nothing pretentious about the food offerings here, they’re simply Italian through and through. There’s everything from bread and olives, starters, salads, pasta, pizza, risotto, and desserts, and there’s just enough going on to give you variety.

“Whether it’s breakfast and morning coffee, a light lunch, or a filling dinner, Carluccio’s is where you’ll find authentic yet affordable Italian cuisine that could rival any fine-dining restaurant, any day.”

VENUE REVIEW

GO: Visit Carluccio’s at Galleria Mall, the Eastern Mangroves, or Yas Mall. Open Saturday to Wednesday from 9am to 11pm, and Thursday to Friday from 9am to midnight.

I start with Garlic Bread with Cheese, which is completely different from anything I’ve had before. It’s chargrilled garlic focaccia topped with Provolone cheese - can you get any more Italian than this? The bread was fluffy and perfectly paired with the right cheese to create a delicious taste. I go for two dishes from the starters; Bresaola - thinly sliced cured beef served with rocket leaves and Parmesan shavings - and Prawn Marinara prawns sautéed with cherry tomatoes, garlic and chilli, and served with rocket leaves and focaccia bread. The portions are very generous, enough to fill me up and keep me from trying a main. Whilst tucking into the yummy prawns I notice on the menu it says “We’re noisy about food. We taste it, try it, argue about it, until it’s exactly

right. We don’t use mozzarella unless it’s made from Buffalo milk, the taste is never the same. We don’t buy focaccia bread, we make it by hand every day. It’s the Italian way - it’s how we’ve worked since 1999.” It’s no wonder the focaccia tastes like heaven on a plate! For dessert it had to be the tiramisu - spongy, soft, and packed with flavour it’s an absolute must at Carluccio’s. On the way out I have a little nosey around the food shop within the restaurant which houses a delicious selection of fresh food such as cheese, olives and baked goods and an unrivalled range of products imported from Italy. Whether it’s breakfast and morning coffee, a light lunch, or a filling dinner, Carluccio’s is where you’ll find authentic and affordable Italian cuisine that could rival any fine-dining restaurant, any day. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#Build-A-Bear #Workshop #Opening #Yas #Mall Build-A-Bear Workshop opened its 7th store in the region at the new Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi. The store is located on the first floor of Yas Mall, and is the first Build-A-Bear Workshop with a new store design in the GCC. Build-A-Bear WorkshopÂŽ is renowned for being the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only global company that offers an interactive make-your-own stuffed animal retail-entertainment experience for families. 86

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Cooking with Carluccio World-famous Italian chef, restaurateur and food expert Antonio Carluccio has changed the face of Italian cuisine in his decades as a professional foodie. FACT’s Tony Sidgwick caught up for a chat with the man behind the renowned restaurant brand, Carluccio’s, during his recent trip to Abu Dhabi…

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Foodie corner

“There are so many dishes, having 20 regions in Italy you have so much to choose from. But I would say that because I’m a specialist in mushrooms, I like a good mushroom risotto.”

arluccio’s is now a worldfamous brand, with casual but high-quality dining restaurants found the world over, including several in the UAE and the Gulf. It all started when Antonio took ownership of the famous Neal Street Restaurant in London in 1989, after having managed it for several years. Over the next decade-and-a-half, it became the go-to place for excellent Italian food, with a strong emphasis on mushroom and truffle-based dishes. Several well-known chefs began their careers at the Neal Street Restaurant, including celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. In 1991, Antonio and his wife decided to move in a new direction, creating the Carluccio’s brand of restaurants and growing the franchise globally. “I wanted it to be a concept of very good restaurants with a good ambiance, excellent but simple food produced on the premises, highquality ingredients, but not costing too much,” he recalls. Simplicity is the cornerstone to Antonio’s approach to all his cooking. “The peculiarity of Italian cuisine is its sophisticated simplicity,” he says. “To make it simple and yet good you have to have very good ingredients and know what you’re doing. 88

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FOODIE CORNER

In my opinion, any dish served in my restaurants has to be able to be cooked at home as well, and too often this isn’t the case, because a restaurant has some specific tools and machinery and all that. But Italian food, you should be able to cook it anywhere. Even the pasta, you can just make it with the rolling pin, and a knife.” And his favourite dishes? All things mushroom, of course! “There are so many dishes, having 20 regions in Italy you have so much to choose from. But I would say that because I’m a specialist in mushrooms, I like a good mushroom risotto.” In 2006 Antonio sold his stake in the

Carluccio’s chain, but was retained as a consultant, which is a role that seems to suit him best, as he humbly claims to be a cook far more than a chef. “The chef has to cook all the time, on demand, and he has to administer the kitchen, and he is responsible for the success of the business, it’s a very heavy job actually, whereas the cook makes only what he wants, and when he wants, and that’s what I do. “In my case, I cook the dishes, and then I show them to the chefs, and the chefs decide how to put them on the menu.” However, it’s important for him to be able to have a hand in maintaining the

quality of the Carluccio’s brand. “Now my interest is based on my reputation, I do books and television, and my name is important to my business, so it’s also important to me that the restaurants maintain a high quality.” In our experience with Carluccio’s so far, he has nothing to worry about!

GO: Visit Carluccio’s at Galleria Mall, the Eastern Mangroves, or Yas Mall. Open Saturday to Wednesday from 9am to 11pm, and Thursday to Friday from 9am to midnight. fact magazine

SOCIETY

#Thai #National #Day #At #Dusit #Thani Guests turned out to celebrate Thai National Day at the Dusit Thani Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SkyDome function area. The evening was complemented by Thai dancing, a candle celebration ceremony, and delicious traditional THAI DISHES were SERVED TO GUESTS ALL evening.

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city bites

Jazz Nights

In Sorso Bar

Iris Sundown

Saturday

on Yas Island

Brunching at

Aficionados of jazz and inventive beverages in Abu Dhabi have plenty to savour with the new jazz duo performing in Sorso Bar at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, five nights a week from 8pm to 11pm. Consisting of a female pianist and vocalist and a male saxophone player, the duo draws inspiration from pop jazz and the ‘80s and ‘90s classics alternating between saxophone and flute and is happy to take requests from the audience. The beverage part is represented by the new ‘Sip of the World’ cocktail menu introducing the most celebrated libations from Italy, USA, Cuba, Mexico and France. This is a great opportunity for you to get with the family and friends, grab a quick bite and some great drinks, whilst listening to some fab jazz sounds!

Iris Yas Island presents the second edition of Iris Sundown, featuring the electric sounds and unique playlist of renowned Spanish DJ and producer Henry Saiz. Iris Yas Island provides the ultimate outdoor experience with its delectable dining menu, creative specialty cocktails and stunning views of the Yas Marina. Located in the magnificent Yas Island, Yas Marina Building 1, the ultimate leisure and entertainment destination in Abu Dhabi, Iris Yas Island is definitely heralded for its unique atmosphere, ambiance and setting. Iris Yas Island stands out as a trendy yet unconventional backyard with its chill vibe, where it is addictively easy to get lost in a tasty drink, yummy food, great conversation, exceptional views and smooth music.

Guests dining at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri’s Sofra bld for the Saturday Global Brunch can now enjoy a plunge into the hotel’s private beach and the infinity pool. “Brunch and Plunge” grants Saturday Global Brunch diners complimentary access to the hotel’s beach and pool facilities – an additional value-for-money experience. Alternatively, guests arriving earlier than the early bird dinner at 5.30pm can also enjoy this complimentary offer. Saturday Global Brunch with free-flowing house beverages is priced at AED195++ per person or at AED159++ per person for food only. Children aged six to 12 pay half price served on Saturdays from 12.30pm to 4pm.

GO: Jazz Nights in Sorso Bar takes place every night except Tuesday and Friday. Call (0)2 818 8282 for more information.

GO: Iris Sundown takes place at Iris Yas Island, Yas Marina, Building 1. Call (0)55 160 5636 for more information.

•

Shangri-La

•

GO: Call (0)2 509 8555 for reservations or more information.

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SOCIETY

#Al #Maha #Arjaan #Fun #Day #Out

To kick off the festive season, Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana hosted a carnival themed fun day event for students of Special Care Centre, Abu Dhabi. The hotel organised entertainment including a hilarious gob-smacking magician, a face painter, an energetic clown and a special cupcake decoration class hosted by Al Maha Arjaanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pastry chefs.

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city bites

Italian

Carvery

Magnificence at

Friday Brunch

•

Choice Cut Steakhouse is a meat-eater’s haven. Located on the ground floor of the Novotel and Adagio Abu Dhabi Al Bustan, meat and seafood take centre stage as the only items on the menu, and can be enjoyed with beautifully fresh salads from the complimentary salad bar. The modern interior with its sandblasted wooden floors boasts an open kitchen, rotisserie and a fully stocked glass walk-in vino cellar. Enjoy the Carvery Friday Brunch here, which features a live roast station, salad bar, cocktails and an unlimited beverage package. Guests can indulge in freshly cooked carvery roasts whilst sipping on delicious drinks. Prices start from AED169 with unlimited soft drinks, and AED209 with grape drinks and ales. Book a party of four with unlimited packages and get a bottle of bubbly!

Mezzaluna

Begin the New Year with a true taste of luxury at the award-winning Italian restaurant in Emirates Palace, Mezzaluna. A bespoke Italian oil, Manni Oil is one of the world’s most exclusive olive oils, produced within the quaint Italian mountain town of Seggiano with rare olives of exceptional quality found only on the wild and isolated slopes of Monte Amiata in southern Tuscany. Through methods of organic farming, Manni Oil produces extra virgin olive oils with extremely low acidity, which is silky on the palate and boasts a delicate bouquet. Both bespoke collections, Manni Per Me (for me) and Manni Per Mio Figlio (for my child), will be available to enjoy at Mezzaluna throughout the month of January. Every month, Mezzaluna will introduce a new oil to join an exclusive collection available only at Emirates Palace! GO: Call (0)2 690 7999 for reservations and more information.

•

GO: Carvery Friday Brunch at Choice Cut Steakhouse runs from 12noon to 4pm. Call (0)2 501 6444 for reservations and more information.

Poolside

Perfection at La Piscine

•

Serving up fresh appetisers like Tomato and Cherry Mozzarella and Mediterranean Tuna Salad, as well as delectable mains such as the Wagyu Swiss Burger and the Grilled Gulf Lobster, not to mention yummy desserts with the likes of mouthwatering Tiramisu and Cream Cheese topped Carrot cake, if you’re a foodie through and through, then this is the place you should hit up for your next dinner out. La Piscine Pool Bar & Restaurant at Al Raha Beach Hotel is set amidst much tropical gardens, between the sandy private beach and the swimming pool. This poolside restaurant offers a blend of Continental, Arabic, and Far Eastern flavours. The al fresco terrace setting and dazzling Gulf views create an intimate dining experience for all who visit for food, drinks and a catch up. GO: La Piscine Pool Bar & Restaurant is open from 10am to midnight on weekdays and 10am to 2am on weekends. Call (0)2 508 0555 for reservations and more information.

fact magazine

hotel hotspot

Al Maha Arjaan By Rotana 2014 was certainly the year of Rotana, a well-established hospitality brand offering value-for-money accommodation, covering everything from budget to luxury in fantastic locations around the region. We stayed at Al Maha Arjaan, located in the heart of Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business district and shopping area, to find out exactly what this Rotana property has to offerâ&#x20AC;Ś

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hotel hotspot

n our drive into the city, one thing is made clear, Rotana’s Al Maha Arjaan on Hamdan Street has a bustling location, surrounded by small shopping areas, big malls, dining outlets, and tower blocks. The great thing? You can easily go for a walk around this lively neighbourhood and find some fantastic places to eat, shop, or relax, and you’re only minutes away from some of Abu Dhabi’s best hotspots like the Corniche and a number of popular malls. So, does that mean it was going to be noisy? Absolutely not. We entered the lobby through revolving doors and were met by a bright, clean, and, surprisingly, quiet space. Staff are friendly and welcoming, and check-in is a smooth process. There’s one, what appears to be at

first, a slight downer - you have to pay for Wi-Fi. Advice: get a Wi-Fi package for the entirety of your stay, you’ll get a nice discount as we did. Much to our delight, the connection speed is fast, which for both business and leisure travellers will be a lifesaver. In the end, it made complete sense for this budget-friendly hotel to charge a little extra for Wi-Fi - it was fast, reliable and worked throughout the hotel, so you’re not limited to stay in your room. With a rather great first impression, of what we’d initially expected to be just a standard Travelodge-style hotel, we made ourselves comfortable and explored the hotel and area a little more…

ROOM REVELATIONS In total there are 228 rooms and suites at this hotel and the one we experienced (and, would highly recommend staying in) was the Classic Suite. Warm, homely decor makes it cosy, yet it’s huge with lots of space. The room is equipped with everything you could find in any good 4 or 5-star, even. There’s a multi-channel satellite, LCD TV, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, 24 hours in-room dining, a fully-stocked mini-bar as well as robes, slippers and bath amenities, an iron and iron board, and all suites offer well-appointed kitchenettes with full size refrigerator, microwave, hot plates and washing machine & dryer. This could well be described as the height of affordable luxury, and we’re told that most of the rooms will be getting a heavy facelift in 2015, so watch the space!

FLAWLESS FACILITIES It’s very hard to find a decent, good valuefor-money hotel that offers a little extra, right in the centre of one of the city’s busiest areas. Yet, Al Maha Arjaan really revels in giving guests more than what is expected. The hotel boasts the state-ofthe-art Bodylines which includes a rooftop temperature-controlled swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, steam room, outdoor jacuzzi, game tables and spa treatments, to help you rejuvenate. There’s

nothing better than that after you’ve been shopping, sightseeing or working all day.

DELIGHTFUL DINING Let’s talk breakfast. It’s a seriously good foodie affair here! The buffet is packed with everything from pastries to preserves, cereals, salads, fruits and yogurts, to hot foods like omlette, waffles, pancakes and french toast, as well as a number of Arabic, American and healthy options, and, of

In the end, it made complete sense for this budget-friendly hotel to charge a little extra for Wi-Fi - it was fast, reliable and worked throughout the hotel, so you’re not limited to stay in your room.

course, a great variety of hot and cold drinks. All this is available at City Cafe, a stylish and characterful restaurant offering an extensive fusion of continental and traditional fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try an afternoon tea with delicious desserts, yum! There’s also the Aquarius Pool Cafe serving snacks, cocktails and refreshments. GO: Visit www.rotana.com or call (0)2 6106 666 for reservations and more information.

fact magazine

hotel hotspot

Hala Arjaan By Rotana If you’re looking for more modern, apartment-style accommodation in the centre of Abu Dhabi, then Rotana’s Hala Arjaan offers beyond beautiful accommodation at affordable prices. FACT visits the hotel to find out exactly what guests can expect…

ocated just a few minutes drive from its sister property Al Maha Arjaan, this hotel apartments at Al Zahiyah presents a whole new level of hospitality. We all know that Rotana goes way beyond the hospitality norm when it comes to accommodation at great prices without compromising on luxury and comfort, and Hala Arjaan certainly secures this notion. The rooms are big, spacious, with stylish, contemporary design and unparalleled views of Port Zayed and Al Maryah Island. Much like the other Rotana property, there’s the state of the art Bodylines gym, temperature controlled swimming pool, massage services, sauna and steam room. We would highly recommend this hotel for families, couples and even solo 96

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hotel hotspot travellers looking for a more contemporary hotel in a good location.

Deluxe Dwellings There are four brilliant room types here; Classic Studios (Twin and King Bed options), One Bedroom Suites and the Penthouse. We had the pleasure of staying in the One Bedroom Suite where trendy yet sophisticated decor and furniture makes you feel like right at home. Once more, high-speed internet is chargeable, but, again, is fast and reliable for getting work done or even instagramming a picture of your distinctly contemporary quarters. There’s a separate living room and bedroom with king size bed, spacious marble bathroom with deluxe amenities, fully equipped kitchen with washer/dryer, dining table, designated office desk, 2 LCD screens and a balcony. If that’s not luxury enough for a technically budget hotel, we don’t know what is!

Dining Defined It’ll be easy to settle in at Hala Arjaan and enjoy lazy days by the pool, all the while not worrying about getting good food when you want it. For delicious international flavours prepared and served with flair, head to The Gallery which offers a combination of cosmopolitan and casual tones combined with timeless elegance. The Gallery serves an extensive buffet selection for breakfast and an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. If you fancy just a nibble then the Lobby Lounge offers the ideal setting with a wide selection of teas and coffees, cakes and pastries, and other homemade snacks. There’s also the Aquarius Pool Cafe and 24-hour inroom dining, so you really can’t go wrong!

Rotana Escapes Whether it’s business, leisure or a weekend getaway, with Rotana Escapes, you can get fantastic deals for stays at Hala Arjaan. If you’re tired of your daily routine and want to disconnect to restore some balance to your life then a weekend stay in one of the hotels luxurious rooms is a must. Your relaxing Weekend Escape will include buffet breakfast for two, unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi access, 20% discount on food and beverage, and, best of all, late check-out till 4pm (subject to availability). This and other special packages can be easily booked online.

GO: Visit www.rotana.co or call (0)2 418 0000 for reservations and more information.

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Hannah Dowd Spa Director, Emirates Palace

Recommend a hidden gem or experience in Abu Dhabi... A few special places that I enjoy are Iris on Yas Island and Bentley’s in the Galleria Mall on Al Maryah Island. The food, atmosphere and drinks at Iris make for a beautiful experience overlooking the Yas Marina and Bentley’s is a cosy place inside with a lovely view. An island escape not too far away from the city is the Al Yamm Villa’s on Sir Baniyas Island. They have beautiful beachfront villas so you go to sleep and wake up to the sounds of the water and wildlife. Horse riding or a safari drive is available on the island, which I would recommend. The island is filled 98

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with wildlife and animals you would not normally encounter in this region. Worth the experience.

city insider

What makes Abu Dhabi special to you? The view that I have every morning overlooking the Corniche and Emirates Palace, the water is the perfect shade of blue, which instantly brings a sense of calmness over you. The water in Abu Dhabi is absolutely stunning, whether you are in the city, Saadiyat or any other place where you can see the water, it leaves a lasting impression, which I have appreciated

every day since I moved from Dubai. I am fortunate enough to spend each day working in one of the most beautiful places in the world too, which is also very special.

Your favourite activities or hangouts in Abu Dhabi... Abu Dhabi has so many beautiful places to enjoy outside; Fanr is a great restaurant to enjoy food, art and culture at Manarat Al Sadiyaat. Al Forsan International Sports Resort is a fun destination for a day of racing and other activities. When the weather permits, morning walks and yoga along the Corniche are on top of my list.

Your time to reconnect

A family holiday is even more relaxing when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close to home. Here in the heart of Doha, discover a kid-friendly urban resort, with an array of restaurants and lounges, beachfront pools, fun childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities and a lavish spa for parents. Intuitive Four Seasons care makes everything easy. Explore our offers and packages: fourseasons.com/doha fact magazine

Arabian grandeur. European elegance. Rising from the horizon, upon a private island in the heart of The Pearl, overlooking the iridescent waters of the Arabian Gulf, a hidden gem awaits. A magnificent palace steeped in European heritage, adorned with Arabian grandeur. Embrace the vivacious spirit of our enchanting retreat and feast on epicurean masterpieces at our eleven restaurants and lounges. Celebrate momentous occasions in our opulent ballrooms, or simply let waves of bliss wash over you at the Spa by Clarins or the private beach and outdoor pools. Be the first to experience Dohaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new premier destination. Be the first to experience the new Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl - Doha. reservations.marsamalaz@kempinski.com | kempinski.com/marsamalaz

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