FACT Dubai February 2018

FEBRUARY 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 05 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

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VALENTINE’S DAY: DINNER DATES, GIFT IDEAS & WELLNESS TREATS. ARTS SPOTLIGHT: THE MAGIC OF LA PERLE BY DRAGONE. WEEKEND ESCAPES: MOUNTAIN ROMANCE IN OMAN. fact magazine

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K-POP YOUR CHERRY THIS VALENTINE’S Try something new this Valentine’s Day and find out how we keep with the Korean custom where ladies set the tone of all romantic proceedings.

14 FEBRUARY, 5:30PM TO MIDNIGHT AED 690 per couple for a 5-course set menu Bookings made before 19:30 receive 20% off

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For bookings call 971 4 435 5577 or ahc.dining@marriott.com @namudubai namudubai.com | fact magazine

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WILL YOU BE MY VALENTINE?

ARTS SPOTLIGHT

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WEEKEND ESCAPE

77 FASHION FOCUS

96 CITY BITES

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• THE EDITOR

How Deep is Your Love?

“

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” - Charles M. Schulz

W

hat’s up lovebirds? Is that still something people say? It turns out that, after an entire month of typing the word Valentine’s hundreds of times, I’m still no closer to figuring out how I really feel about this annual and very “official” celebration of love.

On one hand, February 14 in all its candy, card and flowers glory is a commercially-driven day, and on the other it’s when budding wild hearts, both young and old, get to do something special for one another.

Who wants to get bitter about that? Not me.

For all the right reasons, Valentine’s Day in Dubai can be your most memorable yet. Turn to p35 and check out Will You Be My Valentine? where we bring you everything from dinner dates, sweet afternoon treats, spa indulgence, and beautiful gift ideas to celebrate love! If you’re really looking to impress, head straight to p47 and check out this month’s Arts Spotlight, the one-of-a-kind aquatic theatre show La Perle by Dragone - I can’t think of a more romantic and thrilling spectacle than this to enjoy with your other half.

Our very special Weekend Escape (p57) comes straight from The Green Mountain of Oman and the very insta-worthy, other-worldly Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar. A few days here and you’ll be in the good books for a very long time!

My very own love affair, with the one thing that never lets me down in Dubai, continues into February. You’ve guessed it: F.O.O.D. For all the palate-pleasing goodness in the city, we’ve been tasting some of the most incredible cuisines as of late.

In the Culinary Spotlight, we take a seat at Galvin Dubai’s newest weekend offering - the Unbrunch (p89) whilst a more chilled-out vibe and variety of cuisines is what you’ll find in February’s Foodie Corner at 7Elephants Dubai’s recently-launched Friday Brunch (p93). There’s plenty of cool new openeings - they never stop - and lots of great Chinese New Year happenings too.

That’s what I call love. Your favourite Netflix series on the TV and a table full of great food to share with friends. Of course, a shiny gift or a plane ticket to Paris wouldn’t hurt either... a girl can dream. ☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com

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FACT Magazine Dubai Edition • FEBRUARY 2018 VOLUME 01, ISSUE 05

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHER EDWARD SMITH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL LOCAL EDITOR ANGELA BEITZ SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID TAPLEY PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION NEIL MAHMOOD AJIT KUMAR SALES COORDINATOR RENIE SIMPLINA ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES EDWARD SMITH (edward@ohlala-magazine.com) PRINTED BY UNITED PRINTING 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. 361/17/F

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FEBRUARY 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 05 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

Combining all four editions of FACT in Dubai and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the Gulf, plus loads more from the FACT team.

VALENTINE’S DAY: DINNER DATES, GIFT IDEAS & WELLNESS TREATS. ARTS SPOTLIGHT: THE MAGIC OF LA PERLE BY DRAGONE. WEEKEND ESCAPES: MOUNTAIN ROMANCE IN OMAN.

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Your one-stop culture fix for life in Dubai | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events in the city | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Dubai in local supermarkets now!

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FACT Dubai 8,472 likes Keep up with all things Dubai as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers! blah.pdf

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OUR FAVE FEATURE

JANUARY 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 04 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

Warning: The File “Fact_Dubai_Cover.indd” is damaged. (Error code: we were too busy partying working to make a front cover this month. Oh hi, 2018).

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Najma Ghuloom @NAJMAGHULOOM Here’s to all the tweets I can’t tweet, retweet or like because of conditioned self-censorship

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Shafeeq @Y2SHAF It literally feels like January 78th. How in the hell is next week STILL January??? What is going on

Mahmood Zeyad @MAHMOODZEYAD Nothing reminds me of my crippling indecisiveness like food courts do.

issuu.com FACT Dubai 50,000+ followers reading every month If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Dubai.

• VALENTINE’S HAPPENINGS - P35 •

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND MAYBE YOU’LL BE HERE NEXT MONTH! @FACTMAGAZINEME 6

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FACT FINDS

Ballet Under The Stars THIS MONTH, WHETHER YOU’RE PLANNING A ROMANTIC TREAT OR IF YOU’RE A FAN OF PERFORMING ARTS, THERE’S ONE MAGICAL EVENT THAT YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS OUT ON, TAKING PLACE AT THE BEAUTIFUL DESERT PALM DUBAI.

DESERT PALM DUBAI WILL once again welcome a night of dance splendour, with Ballet Under The Stars, showcasing one of the world’s most iconic prima ballerinas, Mara Galeazzi who will headline the performance on the resort’s expansive lawns on February 15 and 16.

Being held in association with Spinneys Dubai, The Covent Garden Dance Company’s Ballet under the Stars is a unique and brilliant style of ballet and dance theatre featuring Principals and Soloists from some of the world’s greatest companies, including: The Royal Ballet, The Royal Danish Ballet, The English National Ballet, Staatsballett Berlin and Ballet Bejart.

The world-famous Mara Galeazzi will be joined onstage by The Royal Danish Ballet’s Principal dancer, Gregory Dean during this limited run at Desert Palm, as they and this star-studded company perform a stunning range of works, from the deeply classical to the gorgeously contemporary and much more.

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The night is an exclusive affair which involves a 300-seated dinner theatre, created under a giant canopy on the beautiful and lush grounds of Desert Palm Dubai hotel. Guests will enjoy watching the show pieces between delicious courses of a gourmet meal.

The performances will be carried out over three 25-minute intervals between each course. Every 25-minute section of performance comprises of four short world-class works.

The all-inclusive tickets start from AED750 for Gold seating, and include a bubbly reception, a three-course dinner, and half a bottle of grape beverage per person; AED850 for Platinum seating; and Premium seating is on offer at AED1,000. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.DUBAI.PLATINUMLIST.NET FOR TICKET PURCHASING AND MORE INFORMATION.

For replacing my old socks, For keeping your promises, For travelling hundreds of miles, just to see me, For always calling, when I need to talk, For waiting for me in the cold, For carrying our baby, For just being you ...

Give Someone You Love a St. Regis Abu Dhabi Gift Experience this Valentines.

Purchase a luxury gift experience from Spa Treatments, Overnight Stays, Beach Club Memberships, an Exquisite Dinner, Helipad Experience and anything your loved one desires. Because they deserve it.

For more informations and bookings please call +971 2 694 4444 The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Nation Towers, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates t. +971 2 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com Š2018 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, St. Regis and their logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

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CELEB FOODIE FAVOURITE

DUBAI FOOD FESTIVAL 2018 Brace yourself for another yummy event as the 5th edition of Dubai Food Festival (DFF), the annual city-wide culinary celebration, returns from February 22 to March 10, offering a programme of delicious activities and promotions.

ORGANISED BY THE DUBAI Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), the 5th edition of DFF will bring together the best of Dubai’s gastronomy offering and shines a spotlight on the range of cuisine available throughout the city, from the most elite dining experiences to hidden, off-the-beaten-track eateries. Presenting the latest food trends and concepts, where award-winning fine dining can be enjoyed for an exceptional price, DFF offers a feast of food related events ready to whet the appetite of connoisseurs across the country.

Highlights of the 2018 edition will include Dubai Restaurant Week, Beach Canteen, Hidden Gems, Taste of Dubai and more. Residents and visitors will also be able to take advantage of exclusive offers by purchasing the DFF Pass on sale in early 2018 offering citywide deals and promotions throughout the DFF period.

We’ll see you out there, eating our way through the city, one plate at a time! ✤

GO: CALL 04 270 7777 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 10

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LONDON’S ORIGINAL ITALIAN fine-dining restaurant, Scalini, is set to charm Dubai diners with its authentic cuisine and quintessential atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, the hotel’s newest dining destination promises a rich, multi-sensory experience, highlighted by a warm and welcoming ambience.

Established in London in 1988, Scalini played an influential role in the rise of Italian trattorias throughout the UK and won the hearts of several renowned celebrities, including Kate Moss, The Beatles, Johnny Depp, Jude Law, Cheryl Cole and Simon Cowell, amongst many others.

Boasting an extensive selection of traditional favourites with a contemporary twist, Scalini focuses on creating remarkable dishes with the finest of ingredients, sourced directly from Italy. The carefully-curated menu showcases the exceptional culinary skills of award-winning chef, Monserrato Marini, and invites guests to experience the true essence of rustic Italy.

Creating a unique, interactive environment, talented chefs produce signature dishes in front of customers, entertaining guests with their exceptional presentation skills. Scalini is one exquisite culinary journey that you’ll want to check out, pronto! ✤

GO: CALL 04 270 7777 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

PRE-VALENTINE’S SPECIAL Yalumba brings you a pre-valentine’s special brunch to begin the celebration of love. Be captivated by our exquisitely-crafted menu accompanied by the finest bubbly to set the romantic mood in place.

FRIDAY | FEBRUARY 9 | 12:30PM - 3:30PM AED 389 with sparkling beverages AED 499 with house-beverages, Laurent Perrier La Cuvee Brut or selected wines, beers & spirits

WhatsApp bookings: +971 56 991 9329 | +971 4 702 2455 Restaurants.Lmd@Lemeridien.com | yalumbadubai.com Le Méridien Dubai Hotel + Conference Centre | Airport Road, Dubai, UAE #brunchology #yalumbadubai fact magazine

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CATCH IT IF YOU CAN Catch, the celebrity favourite hotspot straight from New York and Los Angeles, located at the Fairmont Dubai, is back for another season with exciting new menu additions.

WITH THE UNVEILING OF its revamped venue interiors comes exciting new dishes being added to the much-loved menu at Catch Dubai. The world-renowned restaurant continues to offer great food in a bustling ambience featuring truly immersive music that mixes the best of contemporary hits and old-time classics. It’s a winning formula that keeps its guests coming back time and time again.

Always ahead of the game with innovation at the forefront of their culinary offerings, award-winning Head Chef Bobby Griffing marks a new season at Catch Dubai with a selection of new food items epitomising the creative gourmet flair that Catch has become synonymous with. With each dish made using the freshest ingredients and consistently exuding the most mouth-watering flavours, highlights of the extended menu include: miso marinated seabass with shiitake mushrooms wrapped in mini lettuce cups, tempura-fried red snapper with red peppers and mushrooms and the ‘BG Burger’ made using prime Irish Beef, and topped with truffle and cooked foie gras.

After a minor interior facelift, Catch’s revamped and eye-catching interiors make for an unforgettable foodie experience. Boasting a communal dining area, highlighted by three interactive stations, there is something to suit every mood and any occasion. From the dynamic energy of the central dining area, to a live sushi bar and the chilled-out vibes of the lounge, Catch Dubai continues to offer a vibrant setting that constantly evolves to suit the ever-changing dining scene.

With artistic expression at the forefront of its fittings and decor, an incredible exhibition of truly urban, street-style masterpieces from renowned artists Hijack and his father, Mr. Brainwash, adorn the walls. Dimly lit in amber tones to offer a cosy and inviting environment, guests immediately step into a world that beautifully couples top-notch American-seafood dishes with an impressive selection of grape including American brands that are exclusive to the Catch dining concept. ✤

GO: VISIT CATCH AT THE FAIRMONT DUBAI, SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD. CALL 04 357 1755 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. 12

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STHAN: FRONTIER FOOD BEYOND BORDERS Sthan, bringing you authentic Frontier food from beyond borders, is now open in Dubai. An ode to the culturally rich cuisine of India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Sthan offers a delectable mix of food with the flavours, traditional heritage and exuberant spreads from all three countries.

THE WORD STHAN, WHICH means place, is the common element between HinduSthan, PakiSthan and AfghaniSthan. The flagship restaurant is known for its rustic open interiors, serving plates of delicious street food. Crafted with passion, the detailed menu which refers to specific dishes from Kabul, Peshawar, Karachi, Bombay, Delhi and more beautiful places, are suited for café style eating – easy, flexible, welcoming. You will find in the menu, an appetising mix of dishes that is sure to remind you of food served in dining rooms at home.

To compliment the menu, the ambience offers a sense of belonging and warmth just as one would experience in the nostalgic lanes of these culturally-rich cities. The artwork and map on the walls, evokes a sense of nostalgia for the former Frontier Province. It also showcases how the food styles evolve as you move from Kabul to Karachi to Delhi. The interiors, with its ample natural lighting and full-length windows, blue and white floor tiles, the distinct fabric on the sofa and the open kitchen, will remind you of the open tandoors of the olden days. The crockery is simple and meant for sharing!

Mr. K. Muraleedharan, Chairman and Managing Director, SFC Group, says: “The aromatic biryanis, gravies, naans, kebabs and chai is what culturally binds us all despite geographical borders.

Although divided, Sthan offers a culinary blend of flavours and recipes that combine a tale that cannot be left untold,” he 14

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continues. “Sthan categorically weaves this magical tale to revisit what the countries have to offer.”

Some of the signature dishes recommended by the Chef include: Raan Irani, Dhaba Murg, Hyderabadi Haleem and Rara Gosht.

From the desserts, the Mutton Halwa and Jalebi ki Chaat is a must try. The Chai ki Dukan and Goli Botal are also favourites. If you like your food with a REAL exotic twist – this is the place to get it! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.STHAN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

The Park Hyatt Ž trademark and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. Š 2017 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

IT'S TIME TO ENCHANT YOUR WEEKEND MORNINGS.

ISLAND LIFE'S PLEASURES at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas. Enjoy perfect moments with uninterrupted views of the pristine Saadiyat shores and gently lapping waves, where you are instantly spellbound by an idyllic rise and shine day. Hearty or healthy, indulge in a masterfully designed wholesome weekend breakfast menu collection at Beach House.

For reservations, visit abudhabi.park.hyatt.com.

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ICONIC ITALIAN FOOD Cova, one of the most illustrious Italian Pasticcerias, has opened its first Middle Eastern venue in Dubai Mall. Cova, located in the new Fashion Avenue expansion overlooking the Dubai Fountains is a globally-recognised institution that celebrates tailored craftsmanship and creativity in Italian cuisine.

ENTERING COVA IS EXPERIENCING a timeless ceremony where highly-trained chefs meticulously prepare high quality products, and artisan skills are celebrated together with outstanding customer service. A place where the fashion crowd, businessmen and a cosmopolitan clientele come to indulge in the unique atmosphere of Cova, this respected food brand has become the time capsule of Italian tradition since it was founded in 1817.

Cova Dubai will offer a unique atmosphere with distinctive interiors such as a mosaic tiles on the floor, gilded mirrors, velvet sofas, dazzling crystal chandeliers and Italian marble. The venue also features a beautiful outdoor terrace which is considered among the best location in the city with an incredible view over the Dubai Fountains and the Opera House.

Paola Faccioli, CEO of Cova, says: “We are proud to offer a touch of Italian tradition to Dubai. Our heritage, history and exceptional products are over two centuries old and they have been transmitted from generation to generation.

“The location we have chosen is stunning as much as the one in Milan, right in the middle of the luxury shopping district,” he continues. “The arrival of Cova in Dubai is part of the strategic process of internationalisation that started in 1994 with the opening of Cova in Hong Kong targeting the most international cities and destinations. Today, Cova counts 27 locations around the world, including the latest opening in Monte Carlo, and we cannot wait to share our famous hand-made Panettone with the international, demanding and refined clientele of one of the most aspirational cities in the world.” ✤ GO: VISIT WWW. COVAMILANO.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 16

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200 YEARS OF HISTORY Founded in 1817 by Antonio Cova, a soldier in Napoleon’s army, Pasticceria Cova is one of the oldest pasticceria’s in Milan, a place where tradition meets elegance and style.

A meeting place for patriots during the Risorgimento and an elite clientele, Cova continues today to be a landmark for the Milanese, a true home in the heart of the city.

A MEETING PLACE FOR YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW Pasticceria Cova soon became the favourite meeting place of world famous artists, such as Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini.

In 1950 Cova moved to Via Montenapoleone, the heart of the Milanese fashion district that was then in full rise and from where it has continued to epitomise Italian culinary excellence.

THE COVA PANETTONE A jealously guarded secret since the early 19th century, the recipe for the Cova Panettone has been carefully passed down over the years. Made by hand with superior quality natural ingredients, this traditional Milanese delicacy, wrapped in golden paper and decorated with silk ribbons, is the quintessence of Christmas and a true symbol of Milanese heritage. Th e Cova Panettone is available throughout the year.

WELCOME TO THE CROSSROADS

Discover Abu Dhabi’s newest trendy urban hotspot.

Meet, share and unwind as you enjoy great food and beverages.

Al Nafoura Lounge, your new outdoor living room.

Only at Beach Rotana...

For bookings log on to rotanatimes.com, call 02 6979011 or email fb.beach@rotana.com fact magazine

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MEDITERRANEAN HAVEN The Mediterranean comes to life at Jumeirah Beach Walk as Riviera Seafood Grill introduces a live seafood market on Sundays, raises a glass to the ladies on Mondays and Tuesdays, and kicks-off the weekend with SaintTropez flair on Fridays.

RIVIERA SEAFOOD GRILL is Dubai’s piece of Mediterranean coastline in the Arabian Gulf with white-washed and light blue interiors and a relaxed atmosphere that’s reminiscent of the French Riviera and Tuscan summers as well as Andalucían evenings and the Greek archipelago.

Saluti Señoras Riviera Seafood Grill raises a glass to the ladies every Monday and Tuesday, for Saluti Señoras! Get fruity European style with 2 for 1 sangria on JBR Walk’s very own patch of Mediterranean coastline in the Arabian Gulf. As the sun goes down, the glasses go up as you say ‘cheers to the ladies’ at Riviera Seafood Grill.

Mondays and Tuesdays from 5pm to 8pm.

Ce Soir Brunch Make the most of the night at Riviera Seafood Grill’s Ce Soir Friday brunch. Weekends are extra Nice with unlimited house beverages, and of course you Cannes indulge in delectable dishes, and make your own gin flavours when Riviera Seafood Grill’s gin trolley does the rounds. As the sun sets on Friday, the weekend really starts here! Fridays from 7pm to 10pm. AED250 per person including soft drinks, AED395 including house beverages, and AED550 for the bubbly package.

Seafood Sundays Start the week fresh and enjoy a long lazy evening watching the sun go down at Riviera’s Seafood Sundays. Choose your live seafood catch and get special rates from Riviera’s Head Chef. That’s as fresh as it gets, and with options like the tender and meaty red snapper, black cod fillet, butterfly prawns, and juicy lobster, you’ll definitely want to get your seafood fix at this maritime venue. Every Sunday from 7pm to 11.30pm. Prices on selection. ✤ 18

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GO: CALL 052 777 9473 OR VISIT WWW.RIVIERA-GRILL. COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

STAY AND BRUNCH

Experience a perfect weekend with a Brunch featuring live food stations and free owing beverages followed by a relaxing night’s stay inclusive of complimentary breakfast.

For reservations, please call +971 2 811 5888 or email JADreservations@jumeirah.com Terms and conditions apply.

To join now or learn more visit jumeirahsirius.com

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CHINESE NEW YEAR: HAKKASAN DUBAI Hakkasan, the brand known for its modern interpretation of authentic Cantonese cuisine, will usher in the Chinese New Year with delicious festive celebrations commemorating 2018 as The Year of the Dog. UPHOLDING THE BRAND’S PROUD Chinese heritage, Hakkasan will welcome the new lunar year with a limited edition signature menu created by Hakkasan chefs from London, USA, the Middle East and Asia.

Until March 4, diners can indulge in the exclusive menu which uses ingredients that are thought to bestow happiness, longevity, luck and prosperity. Starting with Szechuan wind dried oyster with lotus root with crispy rice in man tou, the oyster traditionally symbolising fortune and good luck. Other small eat dishes include braised beef and caramelized walnut with asparagus and mint.

Main dishes include Grilled Chilean sea bass with kumquat glaze, as eating fish at Chinese New Year is said to bring increased prosperity, andWok-fry native lobster in superior stock with edamame and caviar, lamb in seaweed soy with celery and enoki mushroom. To complete the main course dishes, Abalone fried rice in bean curd wrap with mushroom which contains fai cai (fat choy), an ingredient which in Chinese means to ‘get rich and grow wealth’.

To finish, guests will fall in love with the Golden Fortune dessert with ginger caramel, roasted macadamia nuts and lemongrass. A special cocktail has been created to mark the 20

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festival: the Happy Daisy comprises Tanqueray No.10 gin, Chartreuse Yellow, lemon, spiced mandarin jam, egg white and soda water. For those wishing to indulge in a mocktail, Hakkasan offers a series of fruit blends such as Xingyun, a mix of mandarin and lemon juice, spice mandarin jam, passion fruit and soda water, garnished with a fortune cookie.

As part of the festivities, Hakkasan will continue their annual Chinese New Year wishing tradition by inviting guests to write their wishes on red ribbons that will be hung around the dining areas. This custom is said to have begun hundreds of years ago in Lam Tsuen, Hong Kong. During Chinese New Year, villagers would travel for miles to visit the sacred Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees (two ancient banyan trees) and hang notes on the branches using red ribbon. These notes contained wishes for the year ahead and it was believed that the wishes that were successfully hung on the trees would come true. ✤

GO: PRICED AT AED598 PER PERSON. CALL (0)4 384 8484 OR EMAIL RESERVATIONS@HAKKASANDUBAI.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

ON C E I N A L I F E T I M E EX PE RI E N C E T H AT I S EX C L U SIV E LY Y O U R S .

ABU DH ABI

DU BAI

PARI S

RI Y ADH

Take sanctuary from the bustle of the everyday at InterContinental Abu Dhabi where an exclusive escape awaits you. Wether you are simply taking in the spectacular view from any one of our exquisit guest rooms, relaxing with a tranquile dip in the hotel’s swimming pools, or indulging in a gastronomic adventure at any of the 7 award winning restaurants and bars.

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Our facilities, people and wealth of knowledge will ensure you are fully rested and recharged.

SH ANGH AI

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For more information please visit intercontinental.com/abudhabi

Live th e Int e r C o ntin e ntal life .

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RUSSIAN EPICUREAN EATS If you’re a regular brunch-goer or someone who is craving for a new, fresh and tasty concept to enjoy on a Friday, the Rixos Premium Dubai has got your every foodie wish granted, and then some…

MOUTH-WATERING RUSSIAN DELICACIES are set to take centre stage at the much-anticipated ‘Na Zdorovie’ Brunch at the stunning Rixos Premium Dubai. If you’re wondering what you’ll find at this appetising food spread, think hearty Russian classics and stylish Russian flair. From traditional Borscht and Blinis to exquisite caviar, the freshest seafood displays and more, Rixos Premium Dubai offers Russian Brunch for those who seek delectable cuisine and ultimate fun.

And, let’s be honest, good Russian fare is not easy to find in Dubai so this new inspired concept comes as a breath of fresh air for Dubai’s culinary scene. We’re talking a to z of the finest Russian dishes, including a soup corner, tartare section, cold seafood display, octopus carpaccio live station, blini with red caviar corner, shirmps sautéed (live performance), grilled fresh fish and shaslik, a pelmeni section and, of course, a delectable syrniki dessert live station.

If there’s one thing you can expect in Russian culture, it’s a 22

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great party! Be sure to dance and sing ‘till the evening with the best Russian artists and entertainment programme. There are hostesses with traditional dresses, the security will be dressed in soldier uniform and a shot girl will hand out welcome shots as you enter. Add to this a Russian accordionist and Russian band, you can guarantee a lively atmosphere whilst you indulge in the fabulous food.

If you’re in the mood for delicious, adventurous and simply satisfying food teamed with impressive entertainment, the Na Zdorovie brunch is for you! Starting at AED299 for ladies inclusive of free flowing bubbly, and AED399 for gentlemen inclusive of unlimited Russian spirit. ✤

GO: THE NA ZDOROVIE BRUNCH TAKES PLACE EVERY FRIDAY FROM 1PM TO 4PM AT RIXOS PREMIUM DUBAI. CALL 04 520 0333 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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NOURISH YOURSELF

HELLO, MINA BRASSERIE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DUBAI International Financial Centre will launch Mina Brasserie, a new modern, lively brasserie for lunch and dinner, in partnership with award-wining American Chef Michael Mina. The brasserie will be a new hotspot for the eclectic DIFC and Dubai crowd as it offers an elevated dining experience, serving beautifully craveable dishes that are both comforting and delicious, served up in a lively, sophisticated environment.

The menu will feature a variety of hearty Brasserie-style dishes

by Chef Michael Mina and his team of talented chefs. Ingredients will be carefully sourced for seasonal seafood, meat and fish complemented by a decadent selection of desserts. Like any much-loved brasserie but more, the gleaming golden bar will feature a collection of classics, with an emphasis on traditional aperitifs and hard-to-find spirits from around the world.

Chef Michael Mina and his team of tastemakers are driven by passion, innovation and the commitment to creating phenomenal food. Mina Brasserie will represent the very best of Chef Mina’s gastronomical integrity, in the foodie paradise of Dubai. ✤

GO: VISIT MINA BRASSERIE AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DIFC, SET TO BE OPENED IN FEBRUARY 2018.

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PRIDING ITSELF ON BEING transparent, hands on, educated and most of all passionate about what they serve, Nourish is a unique dining concept that has been crafted to attract wellness-minded customers that are looking for affordable healthy food, offered in a beautifully unique and convenient surrounding.

The brainchild of two Emirati cousins, born and raised in the very community, their mission at Nourish was to become number one dining choice for health-conscious consumers within the UAE. With a goal to help guests find their safe haven, Julie and her team aim to ‘nourish’ their diners, fulfill and exceed their expectations and create a unique dining experience that will enhance their senses (and their palates!).

What makes this ‘home-away- from-home’ so unique, is the space that features both a marketplace and a restaurant.

Diners can enjoy food either inside the sleek and stylish dining space; alternatively, guests can opt to sit outside on the terrace whilst enjoying one of the many dishes as kids entertain themselves in the nearby playground. Nourish is also perfect for those looking to work remotely - with lots of natural light and power points by every table, Nourish has created a seamless workspace. Food is freshly prepared from scratch with ingredients sourced locally where possible.

From fermenting mustards, tabasco and ketchup, to culturing vegetables, kneading their own unbleached, stone ground flour bread, and so much more; Nourish doesn’t do short cuts, it doesn’t do processed; it does REAL! ✤

GO: VISIT NOURISH AT DAR AL WASL IN JUMEIRAH.

DIVERSE. AFFORDABLE. ORIGINAL.

18 - 21 APR 2018 Dubai World Trade Centre

Live it. Love it. Buy it.

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World Art Dubai is a unique fusion of world-class art, entertainment and education for art lovers, corporate buyers and private collectors in Dubai and across the Middle East. Showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary paintings, photography, sculptures, mixed media and digital art, all priced between $100 - $20,000.

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ITALIAN INDULGENCE Welcoming authentic Italian home cooking to one of Dubai’s much-loved beachside destinations, Luigia is a popular Italian restaurant and pizzeria bringing real flavours of Italy to its latest venue opening in Rixos Premium Dubai.

WITH FOUR SUCCESSFUL LUIGIA venues already dotted around Europe, the revered Italian restaurant places emphasis on authenticity, simplicity and quality. Recognised

by Gambero Rosso as one of the top 10 pizzerias in the world, this award-winning eatery, founded by Luigi Guarnaccia and Enrico Coppola, is set to attract all those with a passion for quality and genuine Italian cooking.

As the first name of the founders’ grandmothers, Luigia draws its inspiration from the love given by Italian grandmothers to their families through the art of cooking. Antonio Gonzalez, CEO, Sunset Hospitality, the group bringing the concept to Dubai, says: “We want our guests to feel like they are pushing the door open to Italy when they visit Luigia, sharing a friendly moment while enjoying the pleasure and flavour of Italian dolce vita all in one meal.”

Luigia prides itself on serving The Best of Italy, sourcing only the freshest and best quality ingredients and following only the most traditional ‘tried and tested’ recipes, handed down from generation to generation.

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Guests of Luigia will be welcomed by the smell of freshly baked pizzas which have been cooked to perfection in the specially built Neapolitan wood-fired oven, signature homemade pastas and homely specialties along with a variety of quintessential Italian desserts. Luigia favours quality, and stays true to its heritage, from the choice of raw ingredients to sourcing its products straight from Italy.

Whether it’s a family reunion or a business lunch, a catch up with friends or a first date, Luigia is a home away from home for enthusiasts of Italian food looking to enjoy honest, homecooked dishes, served in the simplest of ways.

Sounds good to us! ✤

GO: LUIGIA IS OPEN ON WEEKDAYS FROM 5.30PM TO 1AM AND ON WEEKENDS FROM 12NOON TO 1AM. CALL 058 569 6985 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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CELEBRATE

CHINESE NEW YEAR From February 15 to 24, Dubai residents are invited to welcome in the Chinese New Year 2018 at the world-renowned Atlantis, The Palm. From special menu’s and exciting performances to lion dances and Chinese gifts, Chinese New Year celebrations, also known as the Spring Festival is the time to reunite with friends and family and bring forth good luck for the year ahead.

YUAN Guests are invited to enjoy the Chinese New Year at one of Dubai’s hottest and most exclusive Chinese restaurants, Yuan.

The team of expert chefs have crafted a special a la carte menu for dinner, giving diners the chance to sample an array of Chinese favourites including “Yu Sheng” salmon salad served with snow pear for AED128 or the perfectly stir-fried lobster seasoned with ginger and spring onion for AED300.

On February 16 and 23, Yuan’s renowned Yum Cha brunch will ramp up activity in celebration of Chinese New Year, serving an exotic variety of dim sum, Chinese favourites and fragrant eclectic cocktails from 12pm to 3.30pm. The brunch starts at AED198 per person with soft beverages, AED408 per person with premium beverages and AED108 for children aged four to 11-years-old.

SAFFRON Over the Chinese New Year period, all-day dining restaurant Saffron will present contemporary Chinese dishes within a vibrantly bold, contemporary setting featuring theatrical cooking stations. Diners can expect to experience a live cooking noodle station, a dim sum carousel, a selection of Chinese soups, Chinese roast and steam delicacies and a lok-lok station. The Chinese New Year offering at Saffron will be available every evening from February 15 to 24, from 6pm to 11.30pm. Guests can dine for AED225 per adult and for children aged between four and 11-years-old it’s AED67.50.

For diners staying at the resort during this period there is a half board offer of AED135 per adult.

ASIA REPUBLIC Casual dining restaurant, Asia Republic, is set in a vibrant venue which focuses on fun and sharing. Its team of chefs have compiled an exclusive a la carte menu to celebrate Chinese New Year, featuring dishes such as the wok fried jumbo prawns for AED138 and the Cantonese style stirfried ginger beef for AED68. This menu will be available throughout the Chinese New Year promotion period between 12pm to 10pm.

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LION DANCE PERFORMANCE On February 15 and 16, the popular Lion Dance will take place throughout the resort. A form of traditional dance in Chinese culture, the Lion Dance see’s performers mimic the creature’s movements in a lion costume to bring good luck and fortune to all who watch it. Asia Republic: 7.15pm – 7.20pm; Kaleidoscope: 7.25pm – 7.30pm; Saffron: 8.10pm – 8.20pm; Yuan: 8.30pm – 8.35pm.

GO: CALL (0)4 426 1000 OR VISIT WWW.ATLANTISTHEPALM.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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y h t l a e H JOYS

People who eat Avocados tend to be healthier!

May help losing weight Can lower cholesterol Contain more potassium than bananas May prevent cancer

GUACAMOLE IN TOAST with poached eggs 2 protein breads with guacamole, basil pesto, crispy leeks, 2 poached eggs & side salad

Fennel is exceptionally

FARM SALAD with fennel & kale Tenderly roasted fennel with fresh kale, peas, Feta cheese, pecan nuts, rocket, red radish pickles, semi-dry tomatoes with orange honey dressing

high in fiber, with each bulb providing 7 grams of dietary fiber or 28% of daily needs.

Most people are lacking in fiber intake, consuming only an average of 7 grams per day, therefore adding fennel to your diet could help double your intake!

“0-sugar” dessert CHIA PUDDING with berries & honey Chia seeds in almond milk & blueberry yoghurt with fresh blackberries, blueberries, strawberries & honey

Your Om e recharggea-3 for the n e 3 d ay s ! x t

GOURMET HAMMOUR with broccoli couscous Mildly grilled hammour with broccoli couscous, fennel, almond flakes, onion, raisins & lemon sauce

You probably already know that you’re supposed to eat fish twice a week!

Riverland Dubai

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HOTEL WONDER: ME DUBAI Luxury lifestyle hotel brand, ME by Meliá, will open its debut property in the Middle East with the launch of ME Dubai at the end of 2018. Designed by the late architect, Dame Zaha Hadid in partnership with luxury developer Omniyat, ME Dubai is set to become a legacy hotel.

IT IS THE ONLY hotel project for which Dame Zaha Hadid personally designed all of the interiors and exteriors, showcasing her vision of ‘interconnectedness’.

ME Dubai will take residence in the breathtaking, 95-metre high Opus building, which is the newest architectural icon in the Dubai skyline and situated in the heart of the upcoming Burj Khalifa district in Downtown Dubai.

ME Dubai will consist of 93 rooms and suites, across 19 floors, the ultra-luxurious ‘Suite ME’, as well as 98 serviced apartments. The property will feature dramatic, signature furniture in the lobby, vertical café, lounges and reception area, which were either designed or personally selected by Zada Hadid.

Gabriel Escarrer, Vice Chairman and CEO at Meliá Hotels International, said: “We are incredibly excited to open ME Dubai, our first property in the Middle East. Dubai is a fascinating, exciting city, known for its progressive feats of design; all of which are characteristics that resonate with ME

by Meliá hotels and the high standards we offer our guests.

We are incredibly excited to open ME Dubai, our first property in the Middle East, in partnership with Omniyat to bring Zaha Hadid’s vision to life,” he continued. “We’re confident that our 30

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unwavering commitment to exemplary service, coupled with Zada Hadid’s remarkable design and ROKA’s sumptuous cuisine will make for an unparalleled experience for our guests in Dubai.”

The lifestyle hotel will offer 15 restaurants, including ROKA, the contemporary Japanese robatayaki restaurant. With aweinspiring originality, Hadid’s design reinvents the balance between solid and void, opaque and transparent, interior and exterior. The Opus spans 250,000 sq ft, comprising of two separate towers that connect in the form of a cube but with a ‘carved’ central void where the centre of the building provides unexpected and dramatic views of the exterior.

Mahdi Amjad, Chairman and CEO at Omniyat, said: “The architectural wonder of The Opus requires a hotel partner that can resonate with its design and lifestyle appeal. We’re very proud and happy that ME by Melia is that partner and look forward to the first ME hotel in the region opening in The Opus.” ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.MEBYMELIA.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

TASHKEEL’S IN RESIDENCE

CHASING THE LIGHT SHOWCASE GALLERY AND MESTARIA present a new collection of work by Dubai-based artist Mike Arnold.

Chasing The Light will feature large-scale canvases, smaller studies and a series of limited edition prints that will be displayed at Showcase Gallery to coincide with the 2018 edition of Art Dubai.

In Chasing The Light, Arnold returns to his architectural roots, selecting landmark buildings in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and capturing their inner spirit with a focus only on reflective light. The artist spent 40 years of his professional life handsketching precise designs for architectural renderings and since making the transition to full-time artist, he has worked hard to push himself beyond his comfort zone of definite accuracy into a fully developed practice. In this series of large-scale oil paintings, he has used the wet-on-wet, or alla prima technique, meaning that he is now sketching with his brush and embracing a more imperfect finish.

The Burj Khalifa, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Emirates Towers, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque are among the structures that he has included in this exhibition. Due to a deep understanding of the way these buildings were designed in relation to their natural surroundings means that Arnold is able to bring a new perspective to the audience and to utilise his lifelong skills in a fresh and compelling way. ✤

THE FIRST DESIGNERS TO have residencies at Tashkeel will display their work in an exhibition that’s now open to the public. Christine M üller, from Austria, and Briton Fay McCaul spent three months utilising the centre’s well-equipped studios, exploring Dubai and engaging with the emirate’s residents through a series of workshops and talks.

In Residence marks the culmination of each artist ‘s journey in the UAE, where they were encouraged to push the boundaries of their chosen disciplines and explore new techniques, materials and methods of working while responding to their experiences of living and working in the Gulf. The residencies ran from late September to December and were the first such residencies either designer had undertaken.

Lisa Ball Lechgar, Deputy Director of Tashkeel , said: “For many practitioners, residencies offer time and space away from their usual surroundings and obligations, enabling them to develop new areas of creative practice and find fresh inspiration.

“During the past six years, more than forty artists from over fifteen countries have taken up the opportunity to spend time with us here in Dubai, engaging in experimental creative practice in a range of media and genres,” she added. ✤

GO: IN RESIDENCE: CHRISTINE MÜLLER AND FAY MCCAUL RUNS UNTIL MARCH 3 AT TASHKEEL STUDIO AND GALLERY, NAD AL SHEBA 1, DUBAI. VISIT WWW.TASHKEEL.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

GO: CHASING THE LIGHT WILL BE ON DISPLAY AT SHOWCASE GALLERY, ALSERKAL AVENUE FROM MARCH 14 TO APRIL 21. VISIT WWW.SHOWCASEUAE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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WINE AND DINE THE WALDORF WAY When it comes to classy hotel options, the stunning Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah has got all your cravings and more covered this month…

Secret Garden Brunch MEZZERIE | FRIDAYS | 1PM TO 4PM The exclusive Secret Garden Brunch returns at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, striking the perfect balance between a family-friendly setting and a relaxed atmosphere. The Secret Garden Brunch creates a truly unforgettable experience featuring a rotisserie, raclette counters as well as live cooking stations.

The foodie tour is inspired by the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah’s bold approach on sustainability, whereby the property believes in no food waste and has developed its very own organic garden to grow its own herbs and vegetables.

Quote “secret” on making your reservation and get a package upgrade. Purchase AED390 per person inclusive of soft beverages and get upgraded to the house beverage package.

Purchase AED490 per person inclusive of house beverages and get upgraded to the sparkling beverage package. Offer available until March 30 for bookings made by February 28.

Valentine’s Day in Lao LAO | FEBRUARY 14 | 7PM TO 11PM Celebrate love over a specially crafted four-course set menu, complete with a delicious welcome drink and a single long-stem rose to present to your loved one. Couples can enjoy romantic al fresco dining under the stars as they sample authentic Vietnamese flavours curated by Chef Mai, or choose to dine indoors by candlelight. It’s a romantic setting wherever you choose! AED540 per couple inclusive of welcome drinks.

Waldorf Astoria Dining Expedition PEACOCK ALLEY, LAO, SOCIAL BY HEINZ BECK & PALM AVENUE | AVAILABLE ON REQUEST The answer to all your gastronomic dreams is here! Discover four world-class restaurants in one evening on this exciting culinary journey. Start with aperitif and canapés in Peacock Alley as the sun starts to set behind the iconic Palm Jumeirah, then move to Lao for starters and signature cocktails. Experience a Michelin-starworthy main course with grape pairing in Social by Heinz Beck and finally, indulge in desserts, cocktails and shisha by the beach in Palm Avenue in a traditional Majlis setting. A dedicated butler will lead and serve your party throughout the evening. AED630 per person inclusive of soft beverages and AED780 per person inclusive of house beverages.

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The ‘An Unforgettable Romance” Package WHOLE DAY ASTONISHMENT WITH DINNER AED5,500 (PREMIUM BEVERAGE PACKAGE) WHOLE DAY ASTONISHMENT WITH DINNER AED4,800 (SOFT BEVERAGE PACKAGE) ROMANTIC DINNER – AED1,500 WITH ROSÉ VINO ROMANTIC DINNER – AED1,200 WITH SOFT DRINKS This romantic day begins with a bubbly breakfast in bed at leisure, complete with bouquet of roses and Waldorf Eggs Royale with truffle hollandaise. Couples will then be treated to a tranquil Adam and Eve massage in the award-winning spa, followed by an aromatic Jacuzzi in the luxurious couples’ suite, with chocolate dipped strawberries and glass of bubbly. Relish the world famous afternoon tea at Peacock Alley whilst listening to the smooth melodies of the resident pianist before heading separate ways for a pampering session – ladies will be treated to a beauty treatment at the hotel’s Blanc Saloon and the gentlemen will be pampered with an in-room bath experience prepared by the spa team. Feeling like a million dollars, couples will then embark on a yacht tour to take in the spectacular views of Dubai Marina, before returning to the hotel in true VIP style by way of a luxurious Bentley transfer. On arrival back to the hotel, couples will be lead to a private romantic dinner set-up on their room balcony with rose petals, candles, rosé vino and a delicious five-course set menu.

The day ends with a romantic rose petal bubble bath for two.

A Beach Romance PALM AVENUE | FEBRUARY 14 | 7PM TO 11PM Celebrate romance under the moonlight in the luxury of a private poolside or beachside cabana. This VIP option features a specially crafted six-course set menu, complete with personal butler service for that extra special touch. A glass of bubbly will be served on arrival and couples can choose a bottle of vino from the sommelier’s selection to pair with their dinner. AED 2000 per couple Cabanas are subject to availability

With Love From Heinz Valentine’s Day SOCIAL BY HEINZ BECK | FEBRUARY 14 | 7PM TO 11PM Celebrate love over a beautiful five or seven-course set menu in Social by Heinz Beck. Both menus can be enriched with an exquisite vino pairing selected by the resort’s sommelier. The scene will be set on the night with romantic candles and rose petals on each table, complemented by the soulful melodies of a live jazz singer. To top off the experience, couples will be presented with a special complimentary gift on departure.

AED999 per couple for a five-course set menu (food only) and AED1,399 per couple for a seven-course set menu (food only). ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 818 2222 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

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• SOCIETY

#WOJOOH #X #COLOUR #MY #WORLD Towards the end of 2017, Wojooh & Chalhoub Impact partnered up with Friends of Cancer to host a makeup and skin care session at the Sharjah ladies club for 25 Cancer female patients. #Wojoohcares is a movement that Wojooh has initiated to reach out and do our best to support our community! The initiative is one very near and dear to our hearts, we believe that there is nothing more important than caring for those around us and doing the best we can to support, uplift and inspire our beautiful community. It was a morning filled with beauty fun! We started off with some pampering - fun facials, courtesy of our dear friends at Clinique, who had their Skincare Specialist on hand treating all the ladies. The girls were then given a quick Makeup 101 by our Wow by Wojooh Makeup Artist who also treated each of the girls to a makeup session.

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WILL YOU BE MY VALENTINE? February 14 – hate it or love it, Dubai is celebrating the occasion with real gusto! Check out our top V-Day picks, from dinners to spa treatments and everything in between…

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• VALENTINE’S TREATS

COME DINE WITH ME A romantic dinner can do no wrong and it’s often said that the way to any heart is through the stomach; thankfully, Dubai is bursting with delicious, elegant Valentine’s Day options ready to be devoured!

The Address Dubai Mall Dine with Love at Cabana Spoil your other half as you both indulge in a special set menu amidst the dreamiest setting under the moonlight. Take in the stunning views of Burj Khalifa while you enjoy the music of the resident DJ. You can also opt for a private cabana to add exclusivity to your already unforgettable experience. Available on February 14 from 7pm to 12midnight. AED730 per couple for a four-course set menu inclusive of soft beverages; AED1150 per couple, with a six-course set menu inclusive of a bottle of bubbly (Private Cabana). Children aged six to 11-years-old are charged at half price, under five-year-olds eat for free.

CALL (0)4 438 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Fairmont The Palm, Dubai Seagrill Restaurant and Lounge Every cupid’s delight, think twinkly lights, dim lit lighting and a fresh yet flavorsome Mediterranean set menu perfect for those looking to add a chic flair to their evening. Savour a fourcourse set menu, starting with salmon and caviar, moving on to pan seared scallops, sea bass or beef tenderloin before finishing with an ultra-rich red velvet cheesecake with fruit jelly to share. A beautiful rose and a polaroid picture moment will also be provided. Available on February 14 and 15, from 7pm to 11.30pm. Priced at AED699 per couple.

CALL (0)4 457 3388 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Valentine’s Dinner at Vanitas Set against the luminous waters of the Dubai Creek, Vanitas is the perfect location for an intimate occasion where a four-course set menu is served up. Tuck into Ricciola e Zuppa Fredda di Melograno, Costolette di manzo disossate, Carbonara di fregola al tartufo, and Raspberry heart to name but a few delicacies.

Available on Valentine’s Day frm 7pm to 11pm, priced at AED777.

CALL (0)4 556 8820 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre Valentine’s Day at Yalumba This Valentine’s Day, leave the flowers at home, and indulge your senses in a hearty V-Day meal at Yalumba! Specially prepared for you and your significant other featuring delightful eats, the finest drinks and lovely desserts for an unforgettable romantic night.

AED389 with sparkling vino and AED529 with house beverages, Laurent Perrier, selected grapes, ales and spirits.

Valentine’s Day at Jules Bar Make your Valentine’s Day perfect with a set menu, flowers, dinner for two and a live performance by the resident band. One lucky Valentine couple dining at Jules also stands a chance of winning a special gift. Free entrance for set menu diners; AED199 per person with set menu; AED380 per couple with set menu; and AED120 entry fee with two regular drinks.

CALL (0)4 702 2328 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Palazzo Versace Dubai

Manzil Downtown

Romantic Dinner by the Central Pool Romance reigns supreme at Palazzo Versace Dubai this month with endless expressions of love. Join in this Valentine’s Day and create memorable moments with your loved one over a romantic dinner by the pool overlooking Dubai Creek. A beautiful five-course set menu is offered up with a bottle of bubbly for AED2,500 per couple – and book fast, because this exclusive offer has only six tables available.

Intimate Valentine’s Day Experience a star-lit sky and be transported to a romantic oasis at Manzil Downtown’s signature dining outlet, Boulevard Lounge, with a breath-taking glimpse of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Priced at AED450 per couple, inclusive of a four-course meal, house beverages, flowers and a gift for the ladies. Taking place on February 14 from 7pm to 11pm. ✤

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CALL (0)4 423 8899 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Cabana Yalumba

Vanitas

Seagrill Restaurant & Lounge

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W Dubai, Al Habtoor City K-pop Your Cherry on Valentine’s Day Experience award-winning Korean cuisine and a secret love-fuel menu at Namu’s cheeky Valentine’s celebration, ‘K-Pop Your Cherry’ at W Dubai. Celebrate your lust for life with a five-course menu for AED699 per couple including a signature welcome cocktail, while soaking in sky high panoramic Dubai Canal views. In keeping with the Korean custom, Valentine’s Day puts ladies firmly in control of all romantic proceedings. Couples looking for fun and frolics at Namu will be presented with a blindfold to use between courses, and the lady in charge will choose from a secret K-Pop Your Cherry menu of exotic concoctions to get her date’s palate going. Passion-fuellers on the list will range from risqué raspberry potions, cheeky chilli chasers to full throttle Korean Gingseng shots. Mischievous ladies will enjoy setting the pace for the night ahead and will leave with a playful parting gift to continue the mood. Served from 5.30pm to midnight on Valentine’s Day. CALL (0)4 435 5577 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Gaucho

Gaucho DIFC Valentine’s Day Menu Gaucho DIFC has you covered with an abundance of romance thanks to their Valentine’s Day Menu, ready to set passions ablaze! Passionate about great food, Gaucho DIFC knows that the way to the heart is through unrivalled gastronomic experiences. With a menu curated for a special night, each course has been developed based around an aphrodisiac and are set to send sparks flying. Señores can indulge in fanciful dishes such as a steak tartare followed by a succulent and full-bodied rib eye, whilst señoritas are treated to fried burrata followed by Argentine tiger prawns.

Ensuring that the evening ends on a sweet note, guests are invited to get cosy and share a Dulce de Leche Crème Brulee. Whether you are recounting the story of how you first met, over candlelight or adding an unforgettable memory to your most romantic moments on the beautifully renovated, warmly lit outdoor terrace, Gaucho DIFC is the perfect setting for a delicious evening of magic this Valentine’s Day. AED700 per couple – a la carte also available.

CALL (0)4 422 7898 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Khyber

Prime68

Dukes Dubai From Khyber With Love Offering panoramic views from the 15th floor with outside seating and intimate indoor tables available, Khyber will be oozing with love this Valentine’s. Guests can enjoy a four38

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Observatory

Il Capo

VALENTINE’S TREATS •

course exotic sharing menu, warmly welcomed with a glass of sparkling grape or mocktail and a surprise gift for ladies.

Available from February 14 to 16, 5pm to 11pm. AED180 per person for the vegetarian menu and AE 225 per person for the non-vegetarian menu. Guests can enjoy 20% off sparkling and French grape too.

Supper Under The Stars The sun has set, the waves lap the beach, the candle flickers and the moon is high in the sky. Take a seat at the beachfront restaurant, West 14th for a moonlit supper on an intimate table or a private cabana with sand between your toes on Valentine’s Day. Finish the evening with a romantic stroll on the private beach and live music playing the background.

From 6pm to 11pm - AED225 per person for the 3-course celebration menu and AED150 for a bottle of sparkling grape. AED1000 per couple inclusive of private cabana on the beach with a personalised butler service, intimate dining table and a bottle of sparkling grape.

CALL (0)4 455 1111 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

The Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City Valentine’s Day at Il Capo Nobody does romance, love and seduction quite like the Italians. This year ‘La Festa Degli Innamorati’ will be celebrated in Il Capo with all the provocative passion of Italian culture.

Valentine’s Day couples are invited to discover the sensual flavours of the Veneto, one of the most romantic areas of Italy where food, grape, love and passion are inextricably linked.

Experience signature dishes like Carpaccio di Manzo from Casanova’s hometown Venice, Risotto all’ Amarone from the city of Romeo and Juliet, decadent Tiramisu from Treviso and end the evening with sumptuous Baci di Dama (lady’s kisses). Awarded Best Fine Dining Newcomer at the 2017 FACT Dining Awards Dubai, Il Capo is a classic Italian setting for Valentine’s Day, with a cosy and romantic atmosphere, central city location and wonderful Dubai Canal views. Taking place on February 14 for AED599 per couple, and AED759 per couple with grape pairing.

CALL (0)4 435 5577 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai Spoil your loved one at Positano Enjoy a delicious Italian buffet on the outdoor terrace overlooking Business Bay, this Valentine’s Day. AED250 per person including a welcome drink; Add AED110 per person for the house beverage package; Add AED190 per person for the premium beverage package including sparkling and Italian aperitifs. Available from 6pm to 11pm.

Celebrate love at Tong Thai Escape to South East Asia for a truly love-filled epicurean feast. The five-course set menu, welcome glass of bubbly and unlimited house beverages package is priced at AED850 per couple. If you’re looking to go the extra mile, surprise your partner with the Exclusive Valentine’s Day package which includes a candlelit five-course set menu and bottle of premium bubbly, served within your very own private dining area for AED1,200 per couple. From 6pm to midnight on Valentine’s Day. Elevate love at Prime68 This is where the incredible views from the 68th floor are enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Sip a welcome glass of bubbly, followed by a flavoursome five-course set menu to top the evening off. AED1,200 per couple or AED1,400 for a table by the window so you can take full advantage of the exceptional views. From 6pm to midnight on Valentine’s Day. Experience love at Rang Mahal

by Atul Kochhar Whether it’s a first date or you’re reminiscing on the years gone by, let this place turn a special day into an unforgettable occasion with a five-course menu inspired by the five senses of affection. AED800 per couple including a glass of bubbly, on valentine’s Day from 6pm to 11.30pm.

CALL (0)4 414 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Test Your Valentine at The Croft This Valentine’s Day, be seated under the stars or within the cosy interiors of The Croft for a memorable evening. Talenthouse Sam Packwood will be serenading you through the night with his soulful voice, as you indulge in a delicious four-course dinner. The twist for the night is that the women need to select their man’s main course and vice versa from a specially curated menu! Let’s see how well you know what your partner likes. #MH365 – available from February 11 to 17, 6pm to 11pm and priced at AED700 per couple or AED750 per couple with grape pairing.

Starry Nights at Observatory Bar & Grill Shower your better half with an intimate, candlelit fourcourse dinner against a stunning view complimented by romantic tunes by DJ Alona to set the mood. Enjoy a night of love and if you are planning to propose, this is the perfect location! #MH365 – available from February 11 to 17, 6pm to 11pm and priced at AED700 per couple or AED750 per couple with grape pairing. ✤ CALL (0)4 319 4000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO. fact magazine

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KEEP IT CLASSY Celebrate love at The St. Regis Dubai this month as the stunning property unveils a unique line-up of Valentine’s Day inspired culinary experiences at the hotel’s award-winning dining destinations.

Jazz it up at J&G Steakhouse There’s nothing quite like some wonderful jazz tunes to charm your significant other and create a romantic ambience. Enjoy the melodious sounds of the talented jazz duo in the breathtaking J&G steakhouse, while indulging in an exclusive Valentine’s five-course menu specially curated by Head Chef, Diego Solis.

Highlights of the delectable menu include braised oyster blade, traditional truffle potato dauphinoise and strawberry vanilla vacherin to satisfy those sweet cravings. Available February 14 and priced at AED495 per person (includes five-course set menu); AED695 per person (includes five-course set menu, house beverages and rose for the lady).

From Paris with Love at BQ French Kitchen & Bar Love like the Parisians at BQ – French Kitchen & Bar this Valentine’s Day. Bring your special someone and celebrate your bond with a sumptuous five-course set menu, exclusively curated for the occasion. Enjoy signature dishes including Beef Wellington and Crab Royal, while enjoying the heartwarming tunes of the live band that will be performing a unique lineup inspired by the greatest love songs of all time. Available February 14 and priced at AED395 per person (includes fivecourse set menu); AED595 per person (includes five-course set menu, house beverages and rose for the lady).

Tea Together at Sidra Lounge Experience The St. Regis Dubai’s timeless ritual of afternoon tea this Valentine’s Day at the elegant Sidra Lounge. Paired with traditional tea-time staples, bring your special someone to spend quality time together while enjoying exquisite scenery over the Versailles Gardens. The afternoon tea offers an assortment of unique tea blends as well as the hotel’s signature tea blend ‘Citron-Caviar Rose’, a flavoured black tea with lemon peel, rose essential oil, hints of lime and fragrant flower petals.

To complete the experience, guests can enjoy a glass of bubbly amidst the delicate sounds of the grand piano. Available on February 14 for AED225 (includes unique tea blends and an assortment on delectable Valentine’s treats). ✤ 40

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GO: VISIT THE ST. REGIS DUBAI IN AL HABTOOR CITY. CALL (0)4 435 5577 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

VALENTINE’S TREATS •

CHI, The Spa – Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai Intimate Spa Indulgence Treat your Valentine to a blissful experience where the two of you embark on an intimate spa journey featuring an aromatherapy massage to invigorate your senses, followed by a cleansing rose facial that will leave your skin soft and radiant.

To set the mood on point, enjoy a complimentary bottle of bubbly and post-treatment access to Horizon Club exclusive spa facilities. AED 1,380++ per couple for a 120-minute package.

GO: AVAILABLE UNTIL FEBRUARY 28. CALL (0)4 405 2441 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

The Spa – The Address Dubai Marina

TOP 4: VALENTINE’S PAMPERING Luban Spa – Umm Suqiem Specialising in Frankincense, the newly opened Luban spa will rid you of the day’s stress with a chance to soak up some luxury while you bask in the signature magical treatments.

Opt for the Rhythm of Love (2 hours, AED600) package which includes a rose and sandalwood body scrub along with a healing herb wrap massage or the Love Radiance (2 hours and 45 minutes, AED535) package which offers over two hours of exhilarating skin pampering topped with the signature Luban Spa bliss treatments and a timeless mani-pedi, helping you to relax in a way you truly deserve. The gifting of a spa experience is the gift of love – so it’s the perfect present for Valentine’s Day. Whether you pick Luban as a pre-Valentine’s Day prep treat, or gift one of their packages to your mother, sister, wife, partner or even your best friend for an unforgettable Valentine’s experience - time spent at a spa always feels extra special when it’s a gift!

Refine Love and Beauty The ritual begins with an exotic bamboo scrub to exfoliate your skin in preparation for a warm seaweed body wrap that helps eliminate toxins causing cellulite. You are further pampered with an invigorating aromatherapy massage to relieve all the tension in your muscles before a refreshing plunge at the pool.

Following your incredible spa experience, relax and unwind with your special someone in a private cabana and a bottle of sparkling juice. AED1360 per couple for a 110-minutes session.

GO: AVAILABLE UNTIL FEBRUARY 28. CALL (0)4 436 7424 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Soul Wellness & Spa – Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai Performed in a private room specially for couples , this hourlong full-body aromatherapy massage is distinguished by long strokes and the use of natural essential oils. Lying on massage beds placed side by side , you will drift off into a state of deep relaxation to a soothing soundtrack of transcendental meditative music. After gently rousing you both, our expert therapists will leave you together for an hour of lounging in the suite’s Jacuzzi, which will be adorned with rose petals.

Bubbly and chocolates will complete the experience, leaving you both feeling pampered, rejuvenated and connected. Valid throughout February, this offer is priced AED 1,200. ✤ GO:. CALL (0)4 503 4444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

GO: LOCATED AT UMM SUQIEM 1SR, VILLA 100 – UMM EL SHIEF ROAD, JUMEIRAH, THE SPA IS OPEN DAILY FROM 10 AM TO 10 PM, AND 12PM TO 9PM ON FRIDAYS. CALL (0)4 346 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD You don’t always have to hit up the big, extravagant 5-star venues to show how much you appreciate someone. Going with the saying “less is more” and for those of you looking for something more unusual, here’s our pick of four potential Valentine’s date night choices…

Do it For The Casual Hangs La Cantine du Faubourg has launched a new lounge menu and it’s for those couples who are all about laidback fun and great convo. La Cantine du Faubourg now has the perfect offer for grabbing an evening bite. The chic destination which engages all of its guests’ senses, has launched a new ‘Lounge Platter’, available on weekdays from 5pm to 10pm in the indoor bar and lounge sections.

The after-work menu, which incorporates La Cantine’s Parisian flavours and beverages includes: creamy burrata served with cherry tomatoes, black grapes and pomegranate; fresh Yellowfin tuna ceviche with sesame, avocado, and sweet onion vinaigrette; Wagyu sliders and Fried calamari, all for AED200 with two Innocent mocktails or AED250 with two glasses of grape beverages.

With ‘105 Lounge Platter’, guests will enjoy an array of executive Chef Gilles Bosquet’s special selected items from La Cantine’s ‘a la carte menu’. Ideal for those opting for a lighter dinner alternative with more variety in smaller portions, the new lounge menu is perfect for sharing with your other half.

GO: VISIT LA CANTINE DU FAUBOURG DUBAI IN JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS. CALL (0)4 352 7105 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Do it to Get Out of The City Address Montgomerie, part of Emaar Hospitality Group, has opened its newly renovated restaurant, Nineteen, located at the lobby level of the quintessential boutique retreat in Emirates Hills.

Chef De Cuisine of Nineteen, Giuliano Berta, brings to the menu a fresh new Mediterranean concept. The menu will feature dishes with bold wholesome flavours, colours and garden picked ingredients. Delicacies such as Roasted 42

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VALENTINE’S TREATS •

Hokkaido Scallops, Fresh Greek and Summer Salads, Ocean Beef Tenderloin and traditional Tiramisu are part of the menu.

With healthy food and perfect portions-to-share defining the concept at Nineteen, you can enjoy both the social and the sharing aspect of food platters in a beautifully intimate venue GO: VISIT NINTEEN AT ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE. CALL (0)4 390 5600 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFO.

Do it For The ‘Gram Excellent for getting in a beach stroll with your Valentine, pre or post food, SLAB, a home-grown concept of a social eatery brings to Dubai a unique menu of dishes inspired by all corners of the world. With beautiful presentations and rich flavours at the forefront of their offering, dining at SLAB is bound to touch all your senses. Located in La Mer Dubai, SLAB, brought to life

by Al Tawfeeq Hospitality, combines elements of a fine dining restaurant but in a relaxed contemporary setting.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, SLAB has something for every time of the day. With an exquisite menu that has been inspired by different eras, cultures and aspirations, look out for their starring sandwich, West Bank, with its fragrant roasted chicken on a sour-dough bread with caramelised onions, pine seeds and Sumak. Complete your meal with a selection of decadent desserts including SLAB Brownie which is served with roasted peanuts and salted caramel – yummy!

GO: VISIT WWW.MERAAS.COM/DESTINATIONS/LA-MER FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Do it for the Love of Meat Straight from the city of Manhattan, New York’s homegrown barbeque dining concept, Mighty Quinn’s lands in the UAE. With branches across the globe, including New Jersey, Taiwan and the Philippines, America’s favourite barbeque hot spot brings its appetite for spiced, wood-smoked meats to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) in Dubai.

Combining traditional BBQ techniques with fresh ingredients and a selection of succulent cuts, the new eatery prepares signature dishes in their conventional in-house smoker designed to bring out the rich BBQ flavour that Might Quinn’s is known for. Situated in the heart of the bustling Jumeirah Beach Residence, Lead under the culinary direction of renowned Pit Master, Hugh Mangum, Mighty Quinn’s focuses on three key elements: smoke, spice and time. With a menu highlighted by a unique selection of barbeque staples, including slow cooked tender brisket, a ginormous Brontosaurus Rib as well as a diverse range of hearty sandwich creations and meats, Magnum’s kitchen serves up the most mouth-watering specials, cooked to perfection. This is one for couples who don’t mind getting stuck into their food! ✤ GO: VISIT WWW.MIGHTYQUINNSBBQ.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• V-DAY TREATS

Valentine’s Gifts FOR HER

River Island

Lipstick Queen

Namshi - Fujifulm

Nina Ricci

Debenhams

Akillis

Aldo

Coach

Philipp Plein

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Pandora

Charles & Keith

V-DAY TREATS •

Valentine’s Gifts FOR HIM

Adidas Original

Gucci Wallet

Philipp Plein

River Island

Ted Baker

Billionaire

Berluti

Debenhams

Mens at Dune

Salvatore Ferragamo

B&O Play

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• SOCIETY

#AISHWARYA #RAI #VISITS #LONGINES #FLAGSHIP #BOUTIQUE Longines Ambassador of Elegance, the renowned Bollywood actress and an embodiment of elegance Mrs. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, spent the afternoon at the Longines boutique in Dubai Mall with representatives from Longines, and Rivoli Group. The new Longines boutique at The Dubai Mall boasts of dark mahogany displays and dazzling display windows to showcase the brand’s latest collection, as well as some heritage pieces. The boutique welcomes visitors into an elegant space and offers an intimate and refined shopping experience. While at the store Aishwarya Rai Bachchan reminisced some of the key moments from her 18-year long relationship with the brand. She stated that her journey with Longines has been a memorable one and she takes great ownership and pride to be a part of the family and wishes the team all the very best.

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LA PERLE BY DRAGONE There’s been a great buzz in the UAE since aqua theatre show La Perle by Dragone opened at Al Habtoor City late last year. The dawn of a new era of entertainment, the show is an incredible feat for performing arts in Dubai. After being transfixed throughout the 90-minute spectacle, FACT’s Shabana Adam caught up with La Perle by Dragone’s Resident Artistic Director, Tara Young, the lady responsible for the other-worldly charm of this astounding show… fact magazine

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ARTS SPOTLIGHT •

A

new show produced and created by Dragone, one of the world’s most revered cultural creative companies has been causing a stir in Dubai for a few months now. Located in the heart of Al Habtoor City, La Perle is the region’s first permanent show taking place in a tailormade, state-of-the-art aqua-theatre.

Directed by the legendary artistic director Franco Dragone and brought to Dubai by the Al Habtoor Group, La Perle is a breathtaking fusion of artistic performance, creative imagery and ground-breaking technology, which takes inspiration from Dubai’s rich cultural past, vibrant present and aspirational future.

Embodying the spirit of Arabia, La Perle features a cast of 65 premier artists performing gravity-defying aqua and aerial feats with the assistance of 70 specialised technicians in the innovative and intimate 1,300-seat theatre. The theatre itself features an ‘aqua-stage’ filled with 2.7 million litres of water, which has the ability to change from a dry platform to aquatic stage and vice versa. You’ll see daredevil performers dive into the waterfilled stage from a height of 25 metres and fly around the auditorium on highpowered winches at a speed of 15 kmp/h.

Combining cutting-edge stagecraft and progressive technology, La Perle is a stunning spectacle in, on and above water.

All is not as it appears though, as the stage transforms, thanks to a visual feast of high-tech, 3D projections, transporting the audience to awe-inspiring dimensions that belong only in a dream world.

With an international cast of 65 skilled artists, each demonstrating their extraordinary set of superhuman aquatic and aerial stunts during a live 90-minute show, the theatre has been custombuilt to provide a truly immersive and visually captivating live entertainment experience.

FACT meets one of the women responsible for putting this magnificent show together – Resident Artistic Director, Tara Young, who sheds some light on exactly what goes on behind the scenes and into the making of the mesmerising La Perle

by Dragone…

Hi Tara! Let’s take it back to the beginning – how and when did you venture into the world of performing arts?

I was born in Calgary, Canada and began dancing at the age of three – it was always my dream to be on the Broadway stage and when I was 19, I received my first big break dancing with Liza Minnelli in Radio City Music Hall – talk about dreams coming true! It something that I loved, but I and others around me, soon realized that my true passion lay backstage, in a more caring and managerial role. From that moment, I moved into the Creative Teams and transitioned into an Associate Director/Choreographer and I’ve been on this journey ever since.

“

La Perle is a show that has never been done before in the region, a true first of its kind – it’s so spectacular, it’s hard not to fall in love with it!

Why La Perle – what was it about this show that made you say YES and come to Dubai?

I said “yes” to La Perle and Dubai for two reasons, the first one was that I knew I was creating something that could really make a difference to a region. Previous to Dubai, I was working in China and it was a similar situation, we were bringing a show, a concept, that had never been done before.

The second reason was Franco Dragone.

Franco asked me to be the Resident Artistic Director and I couldn’t say no, he’s a creative genius.

La Perle has quickly become the talk of the town in Dubai – what do you believe it is about this show that appeals to UAE audiences ?

La Perle is a show that has never been done before in the region, a true first of its kind – it’s so spectacular, it’s hard not to fall in

love with it! There are so many reasons why the show is so appealing to the UAE, I think the main reason is because the show immerses the audience, transporting them to the dream-like world that we have created. The show is a reflection of Dubai, just as the city is at a crossroads of tradition and heritage combined with technology and modernity, La Perle contains the same themes and both residents and visitors of Dubai are really embracing this.

The show is packed with performing artists doing everything from motorcycle stunts to flying through the air at crazy speeds – it’s visually thrilling. Can you share with us some of the ways in which you have helped to enhance La Perle?

My role of Resident Artistic Director is to maintain Franco Dragone’s creative integrity within the show. It’s like he has given birth and it’s now down to me to raise the child. Just like a child, the show is a constantly evolving process, new artists will bring new skills and life to the show and it’s my job to direct these changes to be just how Franco envisions them.

To date, what has been the most difficult or challenging aspect of being the Resident Artistic Director for La Perle and how have you overcome these?

This job can be challenging, which I adore.

Yes, it can be difficult but I rarely choose to look at it this way. I have chosen this business and I know that there is always ups and downs in show business but overcoming this is the magical part of life. fact magazine

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ARTS SPOTLIGHT •

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I love to go above and beyond in my role because for me this is the most gratifying.

We are doing entertainment to share emotions, excitement and most of all a one of a kind experience. As an Artistic Director I like to keep perspective and remember this daily. There is always a solution, the journey is in finding it.

On the other hand, what has been the most enjoyable and rewarding element of working on La Perle?

The most rewarding element is the opportunity to work with such talented, passionate and dedicated human beings everyday. From the 65 artists to the wonderful Artistic Team, seeing what we can achieve on a daily basis makes my job so enjoyable. I also love seeing the reaction of every audience member and hearing their comments as they exit the theatre – it makes the hard work and long hours worth it.

You’ve worked on some the biggest and most notable Broadway Shows, Musicals, and National Tours in the world – do you still enjoy the grind and what keeps you fascinated with this industry?

I love this industry, always have and I

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think I always will. To me, nothing beats the emotion and atmosphere that live entertainment provides. On Broadway or any of the incredible live entertainment roles I have had, I can use my talents and knowledge to help, give guidance and support the wider team. I love the feeling of family that you get with working in the entertainment industry and that no two days are the same, it is fascinating.

Franco Dragone has completely changed and reinvented the genre of theatre and live entertainment – after such an illustrious career in this sector, what would you like to leave your mark on... a legacy to be remembered by?

Well…. I would like it if I truly have a made a difference with the people I have worked with. Perhaps even helped them grow, change, and enhance what they came here to do. I look at life in such a way that if we are learning and growing we are LIVING. If we stay stagnant this is where it becomes

GO: VISIT WWW. LAPERLE.COM FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION.

tricky. So hopefully I can inspire on a daily basis. The future is unknown, but in my nature I want to care, nurture and guide the people I am in contact with. Helping young people grow in this business would be so incredible. Maybe a school where I could oversee as an Artistic Director would be amazing.

Finally, tell us three personal or professional goals you would love to achieve in 2018…

I have many goals both personal and professional. I don’t think I can put them into a list of three, but I will say… For today I am working on an overall goal to live every day with the word UNSHAKEABLE in my mind. I like to focus on a word that can empower me. What if every challenge or difficulty that comes my way in 2018 I can say that I know for sure I am unshakeable?

I can handle anything that comes my way.

I will practice doing this through being gracious, patient and of course joyful. This most certainly means to also be flexible in my thinking, and this one part of working as an expat you are challenged daily because we are out of our comfort zone.

This is one of the greatest parts of working internationally, we are tested daily and for this is I am extremely grateful. ✤

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN Black Panther

Highlights

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

“

After the death of his father, the King of Wakanda, T’Challa must return home to take the throne. When two enemies conspire to bring down the kingdom of Wakanda, T’Challa must team up, as the Blank Panther, with CIA agent Everett K. Ross and members of Wakanda’s Special Forces to prevent a world war.

DIRECTOR: Ryan Coogler CAST: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Ensuring world domination with a star cast and a gripping plot, Ryan Coogler’s latest offering aims to give the audiences exactly what they want. The plot picks up sometime after the events of Captain America: Civil War and the death of the reigning King of Wakanda. As T’Challa returns home to the isolated, technologicallyadvanced African nation of Wakanda, he soon realises that his accession to the throne is not going to be easy.

As an old enemy reappears on the radar, T’Challa’s mettle as King and the Blank Panther is challenged when he is forced into a conflict that threatens the fate of his nation as well as the entire world. Featuring a Marvel villain unlike any other along with a candid plotline, Black Panther is the perfect addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Backed with Kendrick Lamar’s rap genius, the film promises tons of thrilling action as well as some CRAZY GOOD CGI moments. What else can you ask for?

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Backed with Kendrick Lamar’s rap genius, the film promises tons of thrilling action as well as some CRAZY GOOD CGI moments.”

Peter Rabbit WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

Peter Rabbit, a super mischievous and rebellious little creature tries to sneak into a farmer’s vegetable garden. Peter’s feud with Mr. McGregor reaches new heights as they both try to win the affections of a kind-hearted animal lover who lives next door.

– Black Panther

DIRECTOR: Will Gluck CAST: James Corden, Rose Byrne, Domhnall Gleeson

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

After captivating generations of readers with his amusing antics and playful ways, Peter Rabbit now takes on the starring role of his own bold and cheeky contemporary comedy. Based on classic Beatrix Potter tales, the film combines impressive CGI and live action to tell the tale of a mischievous young bunny and his many animal friends.

Bringing adorable heroics to life, the film introduces a whole new generation to Peter’s legacy. Giving a fresh new platform to the beloved British character, the film presents the kids’ classic in a much more up-to-date light. The stunning animation as well as James Corden and Margot Robbie’s playful spirit and wild charm are definitely worth a trip to the cinema!

ENTERTAINMENT •

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Text Me When You Get Home

By Kayleen Schaefer

POP/SOUL

Voicenotes

By Charlie Puth

If you’re anything like us, Charlie Puth’s exquisite vocals and swoon-worthy good looks have had your hearts since FOREVER! Continuing on a more mature path with his highly-anticipated sophomore album, Puth successfully manages to expand as an artist with his latest offering. Stepping up his sound as well as songwriting game, the singer is all set to unleash his musical prowess like never before! Starting with a simple guitar rhythm and some stunning vocals, Attention is all about Puth’s transition from his previous innocent music to a more grown-up sound.

Keeping things bold and fresh, the New Jersey native’s new sound is definitely a step forward for the artist. Funky, soulful and airy, How Long exhibits the singer’s vocals at their most authentic. Further adapting his directional change, this ridiculously catchy bop is giving us life right now! Following a lackluster reception of his debut album, Voicenotes has come as a happy surprise for fans and critics alike. Well done, Mr Puth!

R&B/LATIN

Camila

By Camila Cabello Armed with a creative vision and mesmerising vocals, Cabello’s debut as a solo artist has been nothing short of spectacular. Featuring Latin-influenced songs and powerful ballads, Cabello’s self-titled debut album has managed to shake things up on the musical scene.

Experimenting with a mix of sounds and lyrical concepts, Cabello’s relentless vulnerability is evident all throughout the album. Paying homage to her Cuban heritage, Havana is a seductive mid-tempo track with a Latin flare, that we’re constantly belting out in the office! Apart from this sensuous slice of Latin pop, Cabello also throws some R&B into the mix. Featuring booming drums and echoing effects, ‘Never Be the Same’ incorporates themes of painis-pleasure type of love. A vibrant blend of sounds and styles, Cabello’s debut solo effort has us completely sold. Tell us if you too can’t get enough!

A stunning analysis and celebration of female friendships! Capturing the evolution of female friendship in pop culture and modern society, Schaefer manages to effectively highlight the uplifting nature of the relationship.

Relaying her own journey of modern female friendship, she talks about being a competitive teenager to awakening to the power of the female bond, putting a completely new perspective on friendships.

FICTION

The Woman in the Window

By A.J. Finn It’s been ten long months since Anna Fox last left her NYC home.

She is instantly intrigued as the Russels, a picture-perfect family of three, move in. When a frenzied scream rips across the silence one evening, Anna witnesses something no one was supposed to see. Her world begins to crumble as shocking truths are laid bare. A diabolically gripping read!

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• SOCIETY

#IKEA #WELCOMES #CHILDREN #TO #SPREAD #LOVE #FOR #THE #ARABIC #L ANGUAGE

During Arab Literacy Day last month, IKEA, the much-loved Swedish home furnishing retailer, gave children the chance to ignite their passion and understanding for Arabic with its new in-store initiative. ‘Arabic Reassembled’ is a creative solution for children to learn and create 12 Arabic words that are used daily, using the all-familiar IKEA instruction manual.

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Mountain ROMANCE

LOCATED 2,000 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL, ANANTARA AL JABAL AL AKHDAR IS A RARE FIND. BUILT BEAUTIFULLY INTO THE ROCKY CONTOURS OF A GREAT CANYON, IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE THAT THE LUXURIOUS FIVE-STAR RESORT SITS RIGHT HERE IN THE GULF, ATOP OMAN’S FABLED GREEN MOUNTAIN. THIS IS WHERE LOCAL LIFE, CULTURAL WONDER AND ADVENTUROUS EXPERIENCES ALL MEET IN PERFECT HARMONY TO FORM A TRULY UNIQUE RETREAT AS SHABANA ADAM DISCOVERS…

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I

f you told me that I’d be waking up at 7am for morning yoga overlooking breathtaking canyon views, eating some of the freshest Italian food, and zip lining after climbing 200 metres across the cliff’s edge, I would never have believed that all of this would be possible right here in the Gulf, let alone 2000 metres above sea level. Enter Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar, a tranquil, elegant resort where lush local surroundings blend seamlessly with elegant accommodation and world-class facilities. You can literally coup up in your own private villa with a temperaturecontrolled pool or wake up to the most magnificent views in one of the resort’s huge cliffside rooms – the choice is yours. After a comfortable two-hour transfer from Muscat airport in one of Anantara’s very own 4x4 drives (only 4x4 vehicles are allowed up the mountain) which was decked out with soft drinks, snacks, cushions and even WiFi – handy for posting the mesmerising window views on social media, right in the moment – we arrive at the resort to a warm welcome, literally, as a hot towel and tea are presented to us at check-in. Staff are efficient and friendly and we’re whisked off by buggy to our home for the next few days – an out-of-this-world One Bedroom Garden Pool Villa.

VILLA LIFE Now, this is no ordinary villa. Anantara has gone above and beyond with the 178-square meter space. You’ll get a stunning private garden that offers a natural sanctuary for romance, a great-sized heated plunge pool with sun loungers to top up the tan and a lavish outdoor dining area where an afternoon cuppa will be just the fix you need to relax. Inside, you’ll get nothing short of pure indulgence; a majlis-style living room with an oversized cushy couch and chairs facing a large interactive LED TV, media hub and Bluetooth sound system – this is where you can perch with a good book or board games which are provided in the room. The mini-bar is another standout of this sprawling villa – it’s one of the biggest and most variety-filled that we’ve ever seen. Aside from the usual Nespresso coffee machine and tea-making facilities, we’re talking full glassware selection, some of the yummiest snacks including oreo cookies, and even a good choice of soft beverages plus alcoholic options too – I mean, do you even need to leave your room? We’re not done yet though as more pleasant surprises await. The bedroom is decked out with a MASSIVE king size bed – yes, it’s possible to roll over many times (we tried!) – another TV on top of an ornate wooden cabinet (which we would love to have in our own home) – and lots of space to walk around without feeling like you’re in anyone else’s way.

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WEEKEND ESCAPES •

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• WEEKEND ESCAPES

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WEEKEND ESCAPES •

One of our absolute favourite parts of this villa has to be the walk-in dressing room which has ample storage to easily fit four large suitcases and many bags – your only worry has to be about getting it through the airport! The luxury bathroom with rain shower and separate bathtub is as impressive as the outdoors. Bringing in elements of its natural surroundings, the tub is one of the largest we’ve ever bathed in and the lovely Elemis amenities made taking a hot shower or soak after a day of activities and exploring, something we totally cherished! Most of all, it seems that Anantara has thought of your every need because you also get your very own Villa Host to help organise special dinners, intimate evenings and more – staying in this accommodation was effortless and the attention to detail in interiors and services is what makes this villa the ideal sanctuary for couples, friends and families alike.

THE HEIGHT OF DINING You wouldn’t be incorrect to think that being so high up and away from constant suppliers means that the food could be limited here – in fact, we were expecting food to take a back seat to the location.

We were SO wrong. Some of the best cuisines we’ve tasted outside of other Gulf countries was at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar. In the allday-dining restaurant, Al Maisan, breakfast is a feast of fresh fruits, fluffy pastries, winter warmers like porridge, pancakes and other hot options, plus local Arabic fare and even made-to-order eggs and super healthy juices. We would highly recommend the energising ABC juice or a creamy soy latte for a morning boost. The croissants and pain au chocolat were like biting into a cloud, whilst the fresh coconuts and full fry up were true treats to start the day fuelled up. For lunch, head to Bella Vista where you can tuck into the tastiest gnocchi, home-style pizza, seafood mixed grill and lip-licking risotto. With so much natural light flooding the venue which is located at the resort’s famous Diana’s Point, don’t forget to have a fully-charged phone or camera to capture all those drool-worthy shots for instagram.

Al Maisan also serves up excellent buffet-style dinners with everything from Continental, South-East Asian, Indian and Arabic specialties.

We enjoyed the paneer curry, the super crisp salads, made-to-order pastas and the incredible sticky toffee pudding dessert to name but a few of the taste-bud-satisfying dishes. If you prefer to snack, Al Baha, translating as ‘Crossroads’ in Arabic, is an amazing spot to unwind and appreciate resort life. The eatery does an impressive duck hoisin wrap and flourless chocolate cake with a range of hot and cold beverages (make sure you try the famed rose tea) – and in the evenings you can gather around the picture-perfect open fireplace in the courtyard for stargazing with your choice of liquid concoction in hand.

ADVENTURE HEAVEN If there’s one reason why you should make Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar your next weekend escape, it’s not just the mind-blowing scenery or even the serenity of peace and quiet (though you’ll have plenty of time for that too), it’s the unimaginably, adrenalin-fuelled resort activities. Now, you don’t need to be a fitness fiend to get involved – all you need is appropriate clothes, a will to explore and, of course, a good guide. To start off lightly, we would highly recommend the Three Village Walk after breakfast where you’ll pass the rich foliage of Jabal Al Akhdar whilst weaving in and out of charming streets, past

the historical irrigation system and traditional houses of the most friendly and welcoming Omani people.

Our Mountain Guru guide was Thilina who brought the treasured local stories of days gone by to life. From March end to mid-May, the cliffs around Ash Sharayjah village are adorned in Damask roses in full bloom, used to produce Omani rose water. As you traipse past abandoned houses and come across the most quaint, character-filled doors, fronting the few homes that are still occupied, the contrast between old rural lifestyle and the new world will leave you yearning for a more simple way of living (sans smartphone and social media – but, alas, if you don’t put it on Snapchat, did it even happen?).

The areas mild climate is ideal for explorers, whilst the mountainous terrain provides diverse climbing, hiking and biking journeys. Probably the most thrilling of them all is the Ultimate Jabal Activity Wall. We were NOT ready for this, but LOVED every second. You’ll snake nearly 200 metres across the cliff edge across one of the highest climbing routes in the Middle East, on the way to Oman’s first mountain zip line. Safety is number one for this activity. The Via Ferrata steel cable allows intrepid climbers to use their hands and strategically placed metal steps to traverse the vertical rock face, before navigating jagged rock formations, ladders and vertical stairs. We have to give a HUGE shout out to the man of the moment, our cool, calm and collected guide Thilina. Hailing from Sri Lanka, Thilina is an absolute pro. His chilled-out yet motivational approach as well as patience and guidance throughout the climb, is the main reason why we were able to complete the exhilarating hour-long climb and two zip lines with confidence.

Views of the mountain and vast canyon are simply magic when doing this activity and flying through the air at the end is the icing on the cake for thrill-seekers and novices alike.

AND RELAX...

When you’ve had your fix of outdoor fun for the day, or worked out at the gym, let your muscles soothe at the incredible Anantara Spa with its five luxurious spa treatment rooms, including two couple’s suites, a hair and nail beauty salon at The Jasmine Lounge and separate male and female thermal suites. Lay down for an hour-long signature massage where you can choose an oil to suit your mood and a professional therapist will tailor a massage for your exact needs – from pressure to technique and areas of concern – our therapist knew exactly where the tight knots were and worked so flawlessly that we fell into a deep slumber within minutes of lying face-down on the comfy treatment bed. Arabian cleansing rituals will help restore your flow and after some hot ginger tea, you’ll be left feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes next. If you want some downtime by the pool, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar certainly has one that will impress. A striking infinity pool with a belvedere offers an illustrious setting, especially at sunset!

With every hospitality, wellness and culture box ticked, there’s no better place to fall in love with nature, the mountains and the outdoors than Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar. ✤

GO: FLY DIRECT FROM DUBAI TO MUSCAT. CALL +968 2521 8000 OR VISIT WWW.JABAL-AKHDAR.ANANTARA.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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#RETOLD #BOUTIQUE #L AUNCH My Ex Wardrobe, a renowned pre-loved fashion brand in Dubai, is back on the block as RETOLD. Previously a highly-anticipated pop-up concept, the freshly re-branded RETOLD will now enjoy a permanent address for loyal shoppers that can’t get enough of the brand. Adding a sustainable edge to fashion, the contemporary boutique boasts an array of formerly owned designer and high street clothes. Stay on top of regional trends by perusing RETOLD’s glamorous array of pre-owned fashion clothing and accessories. On its shelves, customers will find everything from popular high-street brands to luxury label treasures such as Diane von Furstenberg, Stella McCartney, Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, and many other lust-worthy designers.

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RESORT

G O A L S I F Y O U ’ R E T H I N K I N G O F G E T T I N G AWAY T H I S VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY, O R I F Y O U ’ R E I N N E E D O F A B R E A K T H AT ’ S N O T T O O FA R F R O M H O M E B U T O F F E R S ALL THE COMFORTS AND LUXURIES OF GOING ON H O L I D AY, W E ’ V E G O T J U S T T H E P L A C E F O R Y O U. E N T E R T H E S P R AW L I N G R I T Z- C A R LT O N A B U D H A B I , G R A N D C A N A L , A 5-S TA R R E S O R T T H AT F I T S T H E BILL WHEN IT COMES TO SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND S TAY C AT I O N S P O T S I N T H E U A E …

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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

THE RITZ-CARLTON CLUB LEVEL Boasting a panoramic view of Al Maqta creek from its glass walls, the Club Level Lounge offers an intimately private setting for guests of The RitzCarlton Club Level. The Lounge offers: • Continuous complimentary culinary offerings including breakfast, midday snacks, afternoon tea and light treats, evening hors d’oeuvres, and cordials and desserts.

• Complimentary coffee and cookies 24 hours a day.

• Complimentary wireless Internet access • Personal computers for guest use • Complimentary pressing for two pieces per room, per day

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

e’ve had many encounters with the stunning Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal and, every time, its five-star hospitality, serene setting and overall holiday vibes did not disappoint. The third time around, we were looking for something special, something that makes this property a worthwhile stop for couples, friends and families too. Facilities and fun things to do in-resort to keep guests entertained were at the forefront of our stay.

Much like the UAE capital itself, which is a blend of a laid-back and welcoming, traditional culture with lively happenings, and modern amenities, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is a clear representation of luxury hospitality at its finest.

Located just across the road from the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the hotel is somewhat of a dream destination that could easily resemble an opulent resort found on the canal shores of Venice – with all the charm and elegance of the Arabian Gulf, of course. Sound good? Keep reading…

SUITE ENVY

Stay as a Club Level guest and revel in all the personalised service, attention to detail and extra benefits offered as part of this accommodation type. Firstly, the Club Level has both room and suite options that would suit all types of travellers including couples, groups of friends, families with children and even solo visitors. Private check-in at the Club Lounge is how you’ll start your stay. Staff will greet you with a friendly smile and share information about all the Club Level amenities and extras that you can enjoy, as well as addressing any other queries you might have.

We stayed in a beautiful Executive Suite with a balcony that overlooked truly amazing views of the beach and Grand Canal, and the lush gardens and pool area - the ideal place to relax with your morning cup of tea or coffee. The suite itself is incredibly spacious, possibly one of the largest we’ve ever stayed at in the capital. With a floorplan that could rival any luxury apartment, you’ll get a lovely large living room decked out with cushy furnishings including a cosy seating area facing a 42” LCD TV showing a mix of local and international channels, a fully-stocked mini refreshment bar with tea and coffee-making facilities, snacks and drinks, a desk area to separate work time from chill time, and big sliding doors out onto balcony number one.

In the bedroom, you’ll find a HUGE comfy king size bed (that made for some of the best night’s sleep we’ve had in a long time) with a lovely armchair that feels like a warm hug when you sit in it, and, once more, sliding doors out onto balcony number two which in the winter time benefits from a gentle breeze. A full marble bathroom with a large tub, separate rain-shower, his and her wash basins and luxury Asprey amenities is definitely a focal point of the room.

There was no better feeling than having a nice long soak after a day of beachfront relaxing or tourist-hopping, and getting cosy into the plush, terry bathrobes and slippers - aaah, it’s the finer things in life! fact magazine

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ROMANCE IS IN THE AIR The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is pulling out all the stops to ensure that you and your loved one can enjoy a Valentine’s Day to remember.

Dinner a Deux THE FORGE: Book a table at The Forge and start your night off with 30 grams of genuine Sturia caviar served with traditional blini and sour cream accompaniments, followed by a middle course of tuna with smoky raspberry-habanero sauce, pickled onions, hibiscus flower and red cabbage purée. Following a refreshing orange raspberry granita, savor a main course of bone-in striploin and lobster with purple mashed potato and asparagus and sauce Béarnaise. To round off the evening, enjoy Cupid Delicatessen – a decadent red choux pastry case filled with caramelised mango puree and caramel mascarpone cream, along with petits fours of berry tartlets and Valentine macaroons.

LI JIANG: Head to Li Jiang to enjoy an appetiser of pan-seared scallops, crab, avocado, wasabi mayonnaise and homemade chili tomato, followed by an indulgent starter of foie gras dumpling with creamy shimeji mushroom, Thai basil and bok choy. For your main course, choose between wok-fried lobster, wagyu beef in black pepper sauce or seafood fried rice. And for dessert it’s Tiny Pavlova, with petits fours of berry tartlets and Valentine macaroons. A choice made in heaven for any South East Asian food lovers!

MIJANA: Savour hearty Arabian favourites at Mijana with a romantic twist, topped off with a special Valentine’s dessert. Enjoy a tempting selection of appetisers, including hummus with cranberry, and labneh with truffle oil, before sharing delectable lobster and shrimp kibbeh, almond and hazelnut falafel, and shrimp kanufa, followed by a traditional Arabic mixed grill.

Then, for dessert, “Kubid Delicatessen” – a red choux pastry case filled with apricot purée and caramel mascarpone cream, with a pistachio crust. How delish does that sound?

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Having access to the Club Lounge is definitely a bonus. Here, you can enjoy complimentary food and beverage for breakfast, afternoon tea, and light snacks and drinks in the evening.

We especially loved the breakfast with its huge variety of hot and cold food – the porridge, the pastries and the fresh fruits were yummy! The added value of having a place that offers you free foodie treats and drinks throughout the day is an absolute delight! So, whether you decide to spend all your days at the hotel, or if you’re venturing out to explore the city, a Club Level room or suite will be the perfect place to take respite after any activity or adventure!

DINING GOALS

You have literally got every kind of cuisine to satisfy all those cravings! For a taste of five-star dining, head to The Forge Steakhouse and opt for the deliciously creamy Burrata Salad, followed by your choice of main with mouthwatering sides and a glass of vino or one of the thirst-quenching mocktails. The venue is elegant yet inviting and the staff is incredibly attentive. This one’s for those who want a more refined dining experience with quality ingredients but without the pretentiousness of the usual upmarket restaurants. Our absolute favourite, however, is the South East Asian eatery Li Jiang. The menu is packed with the most flavourful dishes such as the appetising Prawn Dim Sum, the most tender Black Pepper Beef, and the standout – their succulent Crispy Half Duck, paired with a delicious sauce and shredded tableside – just incredible. Do spend an evening on the Li Jiang terrace which boasts some of the most stunning night views of the Grand Mosque. If you happen to take your staycation here before the weekend, check out the innovative No Mobile Dinner Challenge. Taking place every Wednesday evening at The Forge, Li Jiang and Mijana, the hotel’s newest cool dining concept is bringing conversation and good company back to the dinner table. Lock away your mobile phone for the duration of your meal, and earn 15 per cent savings on your bill. They’ll provide your table with a lockable box in which to store your phones (it’s transparent, so you’ll still be able to see calls or messages as they come in – though we decided to cover the glass box with a napkin).

All you have to do is resist the temptation to open the box until the end of the meal. Easy? We’ll see!

FABULOUS FACILITIES

The one thing that we really enjoyed during this stay at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, is the luxury of not having to leave the resort to enjoy our home-away-from-home

holiday. One of the reasons why the hotel makes for a good anniversary, romantic getaway and even a weekend staycation spot, is that it offers something for everyone! For little ones, the pool and children’s water play area will be a haven of fun, plus the Ritz Kids Club which offers safe, friendly and super fun recreational activities, will provide mum and dad with some ‘me time’ to chill out on the beach and take a dip in the canal waters. Couples, friends and solo guests will relish in the outdoor facilities, as well as the beachfront, Bedouin-inspired ESPA with a hammam, sauna, steam room, plunge pool, and treatments that embody the very meaning of relaxation. We’d highly recommend the 60-minute Personalised Facial. Our therapist Ava runs through this exquisite treatment. It can be customised and adjusted to your skin’s needs. It includes a triple cleanse (second cleanse consists of steaming and exfoliation). After the first cleanse, the therapist will perform skin analysis using a SkinVISION lamp to define your skin type and skin needs in order to choose ideal products to either hydrate, energise, purify and nourish your skin. After the triple cleanse, the therapist will perform a facial massage with a suitable massage oil followed by a personalised mask and scalp massage. The treatment ends with a soothing skin serum and moisturiser.

Our main concern was slight skin dehydration, so the therapist used products to help with hydration and nourish the skin. To say that our faces were glowing post-treatment is an understatement, the results were SO good that it was the first time a no make-up selfie was tekn for the ‘gram!

In true staycation style, we spent three whole days at the hotel, experiencing everything that it has to offer. For a quick romantic getaway or quality family-time, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, will impress on every level. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM OR CALL (0)2 818 8888 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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CITY RIDES •

BEAST MODE ON:

2018 NISSAN PATHFINDER

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CITY RIDES •

Go big or go home. That should really be the 2018 Nissan Pathfinders’ motto. The astounding SUV is larger than life but as fresh as ever with major redesigns inside and out, pleasing every loyal Nissan car enthusiast and gaining the attention of new motoring fans too.

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here some SUVs fail to stay family-friendly and off-roadready as well as at home on the highway, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder finds itself sitting comfortably above its competitors with a true edge.

Reborn for the 2018 model year, this vehicle will have you gasp at first sight – in the most pleasantly surprising way.

For those who may be a little unfamiliar with driving the big tanks of steel, a.k.a four-wheel-drives, that reign supreme on the UAE roads, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder will draw either one of two reactions; a) you’ll recognise that it’s HUGE, but still manages to keep a refined physique, and that you can’t wait to get behind the wheel, or, b) you’ll recognise that it’s HUGE and feel completely intimidated to get in the driver’s seat – you wouldn’t be wrong with either opinion.

SUVs can be daunting, especially if you’re new to this car type, but one thing that you’ll quickly learn is that driving a WELL-BUILT four-wheel drive is one of life’s many on-road pleasures, and the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder takes you one step closer to realising this.

We’re talking refreshed features both externally and internally.

Its adventure capability is one of the standout elements with plenty of competence in off-road environments, something that proved incredibly useful on a spontaneous drive out to the desert one evening. We often forget how many different types of terrain and driving conditions we’re presented with here in the UAE, but our little trip out to the sandy plains was a good reminder. As in previous years, this Pathfinder features selectable 2WD, Auto or 4WD Lock modes for its available intuitive ALL-MODE 4x4-i system.

The system lets the driver choose fulltime 2WD for

maximum fuel economy (good for every day commutes and local driving), Auto mode to automatically monitor conditions and adjust the balance of power between front and rear wheels for best traction (made for leisurely highway trips), or 4WD Lock mode when fulltime 4WD is desired (perfect for off-road action).

In addition, standard Hill Start Assist helps prevent loss of control when starting and driving away on a steep incline (both 4WD and 2WD models), while standard Hill Descent Control (4WD only) helps by adjusting speed and brake pressure when travelling slowly down steep, rough terrain grades. Basically, think of any driving condition and this car has got your back.

Aesthetically pleasing, the exterior has a stronger sense of adventure, character and presence and is a result of fine-tuning of aero efficiency. The updated appearance incorporates the latest Nissan signature design elements introduced on the award-winning Maxima sport sedan and Murano crossover – including the new “V-Motion” grille and boomerang-shaped headlights with LED daytime running lights. New LED headlights are standard on the Pathfinder SL grade.

Other exterior enhancements include a new, more aggressive hood, front bumper and fog lights. The outside rear-view mirrors now include standard integrated turn signals. In the rear, changes include new taillights and a stronger bumper design. So, if what you’re looking for is a robust but bold vehicle that can stand its ground on even the windiest stormy days, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder delivers on that front.

In addition, aerodynamic optimisation efforts include a new grille design, which enhances cooling performance and negates the need for an active grille shutter, and a new front chin spoiler design that has been moved forward and directs air downward – without compromising the approach angle for off-road driving. fact magazine

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These changes help optimise airflow around and below the exterior, with the coefficient of drag reduced to 0.326 (from the previous 0.34). Air flow around the vehicle decisively influences driving performance, so having these new benefits means decreased vehicle weight and better performance. Win! Another significant addition for 2018 is the available Motion-Activated liftgate. A simple wave of the foot under the centre of the liftgate activates the power opening function. It is standard on SV and SL grade.

HOW CONVENIENT for those days when you’ve got your hands full with grocery bags or luggage? Amazing!

Other exterior details include recessed front windshield wipers, roof rails and chrome door handles. An available Dual Panorama Moonroof is standard from SV grade.

It includes a sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel, which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows.

Be warned; make sure you check that you’ve closed this properly after use because we almost headed into the automatic carwash with it slightly open!

Under the hood, the revised 3.5-litre V6 engine has almost 7 per cent more horsepower and almost 4 per cent more torque thanks to its new engine. These include new combustion chamber design, pistons, 72

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intake manifold, electromagnetic Valve Timing Control and a new Direct Injection Gasoline system. So, when you need to put your foot down on those long highway drives (albeit, within the speed limits) be rest assured that the visibly heavy weight of the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder does not deter the car’s performance.

Inside, you’ll find SPACE. And lots of it. The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder focuses on convenience and connectivity.

For example, the cup holders have been reshaped to accommodate mug handles and an illuminated front storage bin. It might not sound like a big feat but it’s sure handy for those of us who like to take a hot mug of tea or coffee with them whilst running errands or driving on busy mornings to work.

There are now two USB ports inside the console versus the previous single port, so you know what that means.

You can charge two phones on the go – YES! The biggest change, however, is the adoption of newgeneration information technology. The standard Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display (ADAD), located in the centre of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, features additional infotainment and driver assistance displays (versus the previous Pathfinder design). Voice recognition has been enhanced with a new HD microphone – and we can attest to it working perfectly.

As in previous years, the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder’s 3-row/7-passenger interior combines comfortable seating with the cargo capacity that families need every day. It offers the benefits of a mid-size crossover with the comfort of a larger SUV, including a flat floor for enhanced interior packaging flexibility and ample space (yay for the trips to IKEA).

An available remote engine start function allows the climate control system to warm up or cool down the interior prior to driving. They’ve thought of both your summer and winter needs.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), available with individual tire pressure display, comes with standard Easy-Fill Tire Alert that provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. More convenience bonus points!

It’s going to be pretty hard for our next SUV test drive to top the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder. With all the design, performance, safety, comfort, and user-friendly boxes ticked, it’s a vehicle where attention-to-detail has been a genuine focus. But, most of all, Nissan has succeeded in creating an SUV that belongs on the UAE roads for big families, adventure-seekers and petrol-heads alike.

Who can step up to challenge this? ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.NISSAN-ME.COM TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE AND FOR MORE INFORMATION.

CITY RIDES •

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• PLUGGED-IN

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR FEBRUARY…

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Vegetarious

Jauntlet

Share and explore vegetarian and vegan dining experiences with Vegetarious.

Be it at home or while travelling, use Vegetarious as a guide to discover vegetarian-friendly and incredibly yummy restaurants nearby. The app also lets you see great vegetarian dishes others have enjoyed and keep a list of your favourite places. You can also post check-ins with photos of your meals on your social media.

Contributing to the vegetarian and vegan community has never been so easy!

Planning a trip anytime soon? Make it a whole lot more fun by documenting it with Jauntlet! The travel blog and journal app lets you tell stories of where you’ve been and share plans of where you’ll be with free travel blogs. Give your friends the firsthand experience by chronicling your travel adventures by collecting and mapping your social media posts. You can also explore popular travel destinations and follow other travelers on their journeys. Bon Voyage!

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PLUGGED-IN •

BLACKBERRY COMEBACK Long before the iPhone frenzy began, the trusty classic Blackberry handsets were all the rage, and rightly so.

There was something oh-so-satisfying about punching away at a physical keyboard. While the QWERTY keyboard has been long retired by most smartphone designers, Blackberry has decided to bring it back, and better than ever! FACT explores…

Building upon the successful global launch of the award-winning BlackBerry KEYone and the introduction of BlackBerry Motion, TLC Communication is all set to bless us with an all-new colour variant and dual sim version of BlackBerry KEYone. Continuing to expand the overall BlackBerry smartphone user experience, the company aims to make the KEYone a distinctly different and powerful smartphone.

Ideal for corporate users and frequent travellers alike, the Bronze Edition comes packed with an array of security, productivity as well as reliability features.

Reimagining the modern smartphone, the KEYone offers you a Smart Keyboard, unmatched battery life as well as unique convenience and privacy features for the most secure Android smartphone experience.

A notch above the rest when it comes to durability, the smartphone’s iconic new design and display is built to last. Featuring Corning Gorilla Glass 4, it promises greater impact and scratch resistance.

Taking communication to a whole another level, the KEYone boasts a Smart Keyboard that goes beyond typing. Featuring flick typing and up to 52 customisable shortcuts, it responds to touch gestures that mimic the heritage of the BlackBerry trackpad. If you’re constantly on the run, a heavy-duty battery can be a true lifesaver. Armed with a 3505mAh battery, the smartphone offers all day use and then some. Its Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology enables up to 50 percentage charge in roughly 36 minutes!

For times when you only have a few minutes to grab a fast charge, Blackberry’s Boost can turbo charge your battery to get you the most charge with the limited time you have. Apart from some crazy good battery life, the BlackBerry KEYone also promises enhanced security features, giving you control and visibility over the privacy of your device. Thanks to the built-in DTEK privacy monitoring app, you have advanced protection from the very start. Another major advantage of this limited edition smartphone is its super impressive camera quality. If you’re someone who loves to make magic with their smartphone camera, the KEYone’s 12MP rear camera with an industry leading camera sensor should be right up your alley.

The wide aperture lens with large 1.55um pixels and dual-tone flash ensures your photos will have superior colour and clarity. Click away!

While there’s no dearth of amazing smartphones in the market, BlackBerry KEYone’s stunning Bronze Edition definitely holds its own. From its crystal clear camera quality to its superior convenience and functionality, the KEYone is sure to excite loyal BlackBerry users as well as first-timers alike. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.BLACKBERYMOBILE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

# M A X # M A R A # S S 18 #COLLECTION #PREVIEW Guests were invited to attend the exclusive presentation of Weekend Max Mara’s latest Spring / Summer 2018 collection, hosted by Sossi Wartanian, at the Weekend Max Mara store in City Walk. The invitees discovered the brand’s latest collection, in a whimsical setting, where all attendees were visually transported on a weekend getaway, accoutered with pastel coats, light cover-ups, tweet jackets, embellished denim, floral dresses, leather jackets, along with bow adornments & dazzling detailing.

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COS

AW17

UNDERSTATED AND ELEGANT, THIS SEASON’S COLLECTION FROM COS PRESENTS NEW PROPORTIONS AND SOFT TAILORING INSPIRED BY ARCHITECTURAL LINES AND THE EXPERIMENTATION OF GEOMETRIC DRAPES AND RICH TEXTURES – OFFERING A NEW TAKE ON CLASSIC PIECES.

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HER The influence of tailoring is evident in the collection, garments are reimagined with a modern twist; a wool blend suit in burgundy features menswear-inspired voluminous slacks that drape at the feet, a tailored wool blend top with zip detail is paired with a silk ivory shirt and a long deconstructed sleeveless waistcoat feels effortless in a relaxed, unstructured material.

Taking its inspiration from the lines of architecture and industrial references, the collection experiments with the proportion of silhouettes and details – featuring exaggerated lapels, cuffs and vents, sharp pleats inspired by press folds and the use of geometric shapes.

Bold forms are complemented by innovative and technical materials inspired by experimental art and design. Fabrics are clean and compact, whilst draped and cut in interesting ways.

Accessories are inventive and forward-thinking: deep red square toed lace-up shoes with a geometric heel take centre stage alongside a structured leather shoulder bag and belt with exaggerated buckle – in the same distinctive red hue. ✤

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HIM The focus on reinventing classics continues in menswear, taking a fresh and casual approach. A wool blend grey melange coat is given an effortless twist with rounded shoulders whilst a relaxed cotton poplin shirt in oatmeal is tucked into flat-front wide-legged wool trousers, revealing an updated and modern silhouette that accentuates the waist and shoulders.

The urban theme is exemplified in an oversized cotton utility shirt jacket in midnight green, paired alongside wide cropped trousers with a dropped crotch in the same deep shade. A long quilted technical parka highlights the focus on new materials and the significance of bold shapes in the collection.

The nod to architecture is referenced in the collection’s industrial palette of slate blue, charcoal grey, midnight green and cream. The tones are offset by a strong presence of red, inspired by the Italian architecture studio Pedevilla’s use of red-pigmented concrete at a Tyrolean fire station. Outfits are styled together with tonal colour blocking and dark shades that create undefined border lines. ✤

GO: SHOP THE COS AW17 COLLECTION FROM YOUR NEAREST STORE NOW. fact magazine

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• FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM THE COS AW’17 COLLECTION FOR HER

FOR HIM

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN COS STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 80

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COMING SOON! THE 1ST ANNUAL FACT DUBAI SPA & WELLNESS AWARDS.

APRIL 2018

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• STYLE

Spotlight On Pink We’re talking every shade of this vibrant hue; pastel, bubblegum, rose, blush, berry, peach, punch, magenta and hot pink – this is one diverse shade that’s made a huge comeback in many SS18 high street collections.

Mix and match different hues or go colour block from head-to-toe – the choice is yours! Here, we pick some of our favourite pink pieces to get into your wardrobes asap…

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01. Debenhams 02. Dorothy Perkins 03. Dune 04. F&F 05. H&M 06. M&Co 07. Marks and Spencer 08. Miss Selfridge 09. New Look 10. Oasis 11. River Island 12. Topshop

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STYLE •

Winter Sun Vibes Let’s face it – February is an unpredictable time for weather in the Gulf where it might be sunny all the time but the temperature requires you to wear a thick sweater or coat. With that in mind, keep your winter wardrobe stocked with all the latest high street fashion that caters to your style and the cool winter sun. Here are some of our best wardrobe picks to do this justice…

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01. Bershka 02. Debenhams 03. F&F 04. H&M 05. Levi’s 06. M&Co 07. Matalan 08. Mens at Dune 09. Next 10. River Island 11. Topman 12. Zara Man

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• BEAUTY CHECKLIST

Beauty Fix ALL THE LATEST PRODUCTS YOU NEED TO STEP UP YOUR SKINCARE AND MAKEUP GAME.

Guerlain

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MATTEMOISELLE PLUSH MATTE LIPSTICK

Enhanced with the revitalising new Gold Orchid Technology, the fresh and soothing global age-defying treatment brightens, smoothens and instantly redefines the contours of eyes and lips. With every application, fine lines, puffiness and dark circles are reduced and the eye area looks five years younger!

Making the matte lipstick of your dreams a reality, this is what every makeup junkie needs! With over 14 high-octane pigment shades to choose from, it provides mega rich colour minus the weight. Whether you’re looking for the perfect red, everyday nude or moody blue, Mattemoiselle Plush Matte makes it easier than ever to rock the entire rainbow!

Sephora CLEANSING AND EXFOLIATING CREAM Bring a whole new level of fun to your everyday skincare regime with this travel-friendly, delicious smelling skincare decked out in gorgeous colours. These cleansers are packed with skin-loving nutrients.

Hard working, fast and fuss-free, they remove face, lip and eye makeup in a single swipe. Take your pick from green tea, charcoal, coconut water and more!

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Missha Cosmetics TIME REVOLUTION VITALITY OIL

Enriched with six plant oils including rosehip, pomegranate and orange peel, it provides a moisturising and vitalising effect while leaving skin feeling refreshed. Ideal for dehydrated skin, the fast absorbing and nonsticky formula provides a healthy glow while sealing in moisture. Use it as the first step of your skincare routine for added benefits!

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Fenty Beauty

ORCHIDEE IMPERIALE EYE AND LIP CONTOUR CREAM

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Nars LIQUID BLUSH Get the most natural flush with Nars’ new highly pigmented Liquid Blush! Infused with monoi and tamanu oils, the silky and weightless formula blends effortlessly for a natural-looking, second-skin finish. Just one pump is enough to deliver the perfect amount of long-lasting colour for sheer to high impact looks. Add a healthy glow to your skin all year long!

BECCA APRES SKI GLOW FACE PALETTE Giving you the perfect rosy, fresh-fromthe-slopes glow, the Apres Ski Glow Face Palette includes a new Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter in Icicle and a new Mineral Blush in Winter Berry. Paired with four bestselling iconic shades, this face palette is all you need this winter.

From natural and fresh to bronzed goddess- the possibilities are endless!

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GROOMING CHECKLIST •

Grooming Fix FOREVER HELPING YOU TO STEP UP YOUR REGIMEN, THESE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE GROOMING PICKS FOR FEBRUARY…

Issey Miyake

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L’EAU D’ISSEY POUR HOMME OR ENCENS

Gold-infused water meets molten rock, L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme Or Encens presents a new vision of a classic of masculine perfumery. Infused with one of the noblest ingredients of perfumery, incense, it is an innovative blend of force and freshness, inspired by the power of water.

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The Real Shaving Co. SENSITIVE SHAVE GEL

Enriched with Aloe Vera to soothe and moisturise, this gel gives you the closest, smoothest shave possible! It provides an invisible barrier for ultimate razor glide and precision shaving. Suitable for even the most sensitive of skin, it foams quickly with very little effort, while Cocoa Seed Butter protects against skin irritation.

Perricone MD SUPER CLEAN FACE WASH

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Powered by naturally-driven Phytocannabinoids, it delivers potent antioxidant benefits to help stressed, oil-prone skin feel soothed, healthy and refreshed. Designed specifically to address men’s key skincare needs, it gives you the best skin of your life without irritation or overdrying. The yummy woodsy green fragrance is a bonus!

Elemis PRO-COLLAGEN MARINE CREAM FOR MEN Powered with unique Mediterranean algae, Padina Pavonica, Ginkgo Biloba and soothing AbyssineTM, it instantly hydrates, smoothes and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Specially formulated for men, it is clinically proven to improve skin moisturisation, suppleness and elasticity. Ideal for post-shave comfort!

Lab Series FUTURE RESCUE REPAIR SERUM A high-performance, concentrated, daily anti-aging treatment, this global serum creates a barrier to help skin defend against pollution and combat visible aging. Acting as skin’s first line of protection, it works around the clock to help promote skin’s natural repair process and collagen production.

Chanel ALLURE HOMME SPORT Teaming freshness with sensuality, indulge your senses as the sparkling freshness of Italian mandarin, heightened by a crystal-clear accord, blends into the clean, intense notes of cedar. The irresistible fragrance features sensual Venezuelan Tonka bean combined with the enveloping notes of white musks to produce a deep and intense trail.

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• INTERIOR ENVY

ZARA HOME VASE UP This time of year is all about fresh blooms adorning the kitchen table or neatly placed on the windowsill. What better way to bring character into the home than with a range of beautiful vases to deck out your favourite flower hotspots in the house. Check out our top picks from Zara Home‌

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HOME STYLE •

House of Fraser

M&Co

Debenhams

dotcomgiftshop

Next

Debenhams

Cath Kidston

Box Love Gone are the days of stuffing things into drawers as we welcome more cute, quaint, pretty, quirky and not to mention, space-defying boxes. It can be where you put your folded socks, or your most precious jewellery, and even just for dĂŠcor purposes or food storage, but boxes are the way forward to neat spaces within the home. fact magazine

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

BREAKING Rules For Brunch In a city that loves to eat, Galvin Dubai’s refined Mediterranean flavours and sophisticated setting make for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Located in the heart of City Walk, the stunning restaurant is a culinary retreat in its own right. FACT’s Aanchal Duggal went to savour the best of what the venue offers at its weekend shindig, The Galvin Unbrunch... fact magazine

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• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

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ecked out in rich colours, exotic foliage and bespoke furnishings, the interiors at Galvin Dubai embody the signature touches of the brand’s authentic French character. Set across two floors featuring a bar area, outdoor terrace and an open kitchen, the restaurant provides the perfect combination of a palatial aesthetic and an inviting atmosphere. Featuring ingredients from the west of Italy to Barcelona and the South of France, their seasonal-led menu offers a number of carefully-crafted dishes to positively tantalise your senses.

Since brunch is hands-down the best and most important meal of the weekend, we decided to try out their newly-launched UnBrunch offering Headed by the amazing Executive Chef Luigi Vespero, the concept is all set to shake things up on Dubai’s brunch scene and rival your favourites. With a multitude of delectable masterpieces to choose from, we began our culinary expedition with the Soup Du Jour - a creamy yet incredibly light Parsnip Soup. A mouthwatering blend of tender parsnips and aromatic flavours, it’s comfort food at its finest. With hints of mild sweetness seeping through, this velvety concoction is the only thing we need to warm us up this winter!

Offering a menu that captures the true flavours of the Mediterranean while also complimenting the local weather, the Galvin brothers are all about exceptional food in luxurious and hospitable surroundings. In keeping with their desire to present the most high-quality cuisine, our next dish is stunning and has everyone reaching for their phone camera whilst taste buds are at the ready!

Say hello to the Sea Bass Carpaccio with green chilli, tomato and coriander. It offers a refreshing blend of vibrant colours, flavours and textures. Apart from being incredibly aesthetically pleasing, the delicate preparation takes our senses on a ride while still being distinctly light on the palate. Watching our carpaccio being prepared at the Raw Bar was an added plus and definitely a cool interactive element that adds an innovative touch to this brunch!

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A stunning amalgamation of sophisticated taste and breathtaking presentations, the menu features dishes from classic cooking methods such as woodfired ovens, charcoal grills and a la plancha for subtly and taste. Serving up intense flavour and Instagram-worthy gorgeousness, our main course of Roast Pave of Sea Bass Gnocchi, with olive tapenade, confit tomato and basil oil was all kinds of delicious. Crispy on the outside and super succulent on the inside, the fish is popping with flavour and done just right.

While the light and fluffy gnocchi adds a mild taste to the mix. Serious brunch goals right here!

Our next main of Chicken Breast, Puy Lentils, Pearl Barley and Crispy Kale is every healthy diner’s dream come true.

Giving you all the mouthwatering flavour without the guilt, we’ll definitely be

coming back for some more of this.

Ending our super satisfying meal on a sweet note, the dessert had everyone on the table totally awestruck. Valrhona Chocolate Fondant with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb, it’s indulgence at peak level. From its to-die-for presentation to its luscious chocolate, things soon became a battle of the spoons as everyone wanted more than their fair share of the gooey goodness.

Armed with a respect for seasonal ingredients and culinary expertise, Chris and Jeff Galvin combine creative ingredients and unique hospitality to give their diners an experience that demands to be remembered. Be it their exemplary staff, detailed dishes or their specialist menu of infused cocktails, Galvin Dubai’s new UnBrunch menu is all you need to eat well on the weekend! ✤

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

GO: THE GALVIN UNBRUNCH TAKES PLACE EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY FROM 12NOON TO 4PM. PRICED AT AED185 PER PERSON. CALL 04 590 5444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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FEBRUARY 2018 VOL 1. ISSUE 05 AED&ĂĐƚ ƵďĂŝ 10

For the culture-savvy in Dubai

VALENTINE’S DAY: DINNER DATES, GIFT IDEAS & WELLNESS TREATS. ARTS SPOTLIGHT: THE MAGIC OF LA PERLE BY DRAGONE. WEEKEND ESCAPES: MOUNTAIN ROMANCE IN OMAN.

FEBRUARY EDITION AVAILABLE NOW on issuu.com/factmagazine 92

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FOODIE CORNER •

Brunch Around The World It’s no secret that Dubai is full to the brim with brunch options, so if you want to stand out, you need to bring your A-game. FACT’s Shabana Adam went to check out the newly-launched 7Elephants Dubai’s Friday Brunch where worldly signature plates meet cool, insta-worthy interiors…

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• FOODIE CORNER

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IFC has always been an unusual one for us. The entire area is packed with some of the world’s top food venues offering up everything from sophisticated dining to fun ladies nights and even casual after-work hangouts. But on a weekend, it’s difficult to gage what the atmosphere will be like. On this particular Friday afternoon when we entered the vast interior of 7Elephants at Emirates Financial Towers, it was very quiet. Apart from a solo diner enjoying the surrounding picturesque views with her choice of shisha, our team of three was the only group at brunch.

Did this put us off? Not in the slightest. Yes, the venue is HUGE. There’s comfy sofa seating for laid-back hangs, large quirky dining tables for those who want full-on food and wood-carved high-tables for guests who are there for drinks and small bites. And you can take a seat at the 35m-long bar where skilled bartenders whip up all kinds of liquid kryptonite.

Friday Brunch at 7Elephants is an east-meets-west explosion of flavours where diners will get a taste of their mouthwatering signature plates from seven traders: Indian, Balinese, Arabic, British, Italian, Spanish and Mexican. With a sharing-style brunch, food is served to the table whilst you kick back and take in the calm and inviting setting of the venue.

Our culinary tour begins with a hearty Antipasto Platter made up of generous portions of cold cuts (truffle salami, beef chorizo, and cecina); marinated grilled vegetables with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic and white balsamic vinegar; grilled camembert with rosemary oil and grilled focaccia bread; endive with blue cheese, parmesan and dry apricot; and dates. This entire set up takes us back to holidaying in Spain where such tapas platters were a fun, delicious way of bringing people together. The meat is of good quality and we can’t get enough of dipping the soft focaccia in the melted camembert – D.I.V.I.N.E. Other standouts included the SUPER crisp Market Salad which had a great balance of texture thanks to the sprinkling of mix nuts; and the Curried Salmon which was kept simple and dressed in salt, herbs, caper, pickled onion, dill and sour cream – bringing out all the flavours you’d want to taste from the fresh Norwegian fish.

Things took a turn towards Mexico when the Taco Breakfast came out to the table. We’re talking scrambled

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egg, beef chilli, sour cream, guacamole, jalapeno and Monterey jack cheese all neatly packed into a lush taco.

With three giant bites, it was all gone. So far, SO GOOD! Both the Sizzling Beef Tenderloin and Char Grilled Lobster Tail were big talking points at the table. The first came on a sizzling stone with juicy tenderloin peppered with top-quality salt and a side of beef jus, whilst the latter was infused with a palate-pleasing smokiness and served with a lemon butter sauce.

We make our way back to the Middle East with a pictureperfect Arabic Sujuk dish, consisting of Lamb Fatayer adorned with a sunny side up egg – a playful, tasty dish that recalls many local breakfast experiences we’ve had before.

Although we were quite full at this point, the Paella was, hands down, the star of the brunch. Succulent shrimp, lip-licking mussels, clams, squids, barramundi fish and chicken thigh are all generously scattered amongst the traditional short grain, al dente rice and peas – could it get any tastier than this?

And, let’s be honest, no matter how full you get, dessert is basically made for a different stomach – and you’ll want to keep that in mind at this brunch. Fluffy, moreish Picarones come out to the table and we’re head-over-heels at first bite. These beautifully-round fried donuts glazed with dried figs and served with honey and dulce de leche ice cream are a plate sent straight from the food Gods – and we thank them with a whole lot of donut dunking! There’s also a fresh fruit platter for those who want to take things a little easy.

Dubai is a melting pot of different nations and the kitchen team headed by Chef Mahmoud Turkmani at 7Elephants really does a good job of embodying the city’s diverse influences. We just hope that more people stand up and take notice of this perfect brunch spot which is ideally created to be enjoyed by groups of friends, families, and even the little ones. ✤

FOODIE CORNER •

GO: VISIT 7ELEPHANTS DUBAI IN EMIRATES FINANCIAL TOWERS. FRIDAY BRUNCH IS SERVED FROM 12NOON TO 4PM. AED195 FOR THE SOFT DRINKS PACKAGE; AED295 WITH PREMIUM BEVERAGES; AED495 WITH BUBBLY; AED125 FOR KIDS AGED EIGHT TO 15; FREE FOR UNDER EIGHT-YEAR-OLDS. AFTER BRUNCH PACKAGE FROM 4PM TO 7PM WITH UNLIMITED DRINKS IS AED195. CALL (0)4 354 4354 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• CITY BITES

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Culinary High Seas

Belgian Brunchin’

Barbershop-Cum-Café

Every Saturday, come and make a splash at one of Dubai’s most family-friendly brunches. In The Address Dubai Marina, you can enjoy a wide variety of speciallythemed dishes, dress up as a pirate or mermaid and enjoy an afternoon of epic swashbuckling fun and deep-sea enchantment.

With prizes for the best-dressed pirate or mermaid, there are entertaining activities and lots of fun for everyone. Follow the map to find the buried treasure, or get a temporary tattoo. Lay siege to the bouncy castle and, in addition, meet the very own Magic Phil.

Served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

AED330 per person, including soft beverages; AED460 per person, including house beverages and AED622 per person including house beverages and free flow bubbly; Children aged five and below dine for free.

Dubai’s freshest Belgian concept, Le Petit Belge, is launching the first brunch to celebrate with friends over shots! The “Take the Shot” brunch experience, which debuted at the JLT location, with centralised table service to ensure friends and revellers don’t need to disturb the atmosphere at their table. You’ll be served with rounds of awardwinning Belgian food platters and shots to get the party accelerated.

The brunch offering has a range of classic Belgian hops, house grapes and spirits as you would expect. The menu on offer has a delicious array of Belgian dishes, served rolling as platters, including; assorted croquettes, the famous LPB “toast cannibal” (steak tartare), Flemish beef stew, garlic cream mussels and Belgian waffle cones.

To take it to the next level, every platter of food is accompanied with a round of shots.

Where can you get a shave that’s on point, meet with the crew before a ride, or just sit back, relax, and enjoy a steaming cuppa joe? Answer: pdl. Pronounced pedal, pdl is a first-of-its-kind concept space that combines a barbershop, cycling, and coffee and occupies a prime location in the Mardoof Building on Sheikh Zayed Road. How cool does this sound? The venue adds to the community spirit around Al Safa and the Dubai Canal area by fusing the camaraderie of men’s grooming, general sense of belonging amongst cyclists, and friendly vibes at cafés into one modern space. Founded by three Emiratis who combined their love for cycling, coffee, crews, cruise, and cuts, pdl was an idea inspired by the community culture the trio witnessed at similar sport-themed cafes around the world.

GO: CALL (0)4 888 3444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

GO: CALL (0)4 521 5900 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

GO: VISIT WWW.PDL-DUBAI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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CITY BITES •

Provence Meets Dubai

Taste of Persia

Time for Masti

Maison de Juliette, a charming, trendy café inspired by the beauty of Aix-en-Provence and the fast paced buzz of Dubai, recently launched its flagship café at the newly-opened waterfront destination La Mer North in Jumeirah Beach.

Bringing Provençal charm to the city, Maison de Juliette portrays everything whimsical, creative, spirited, natural and bountiful. It is where guests will come to meet their friends, dine and revel in a space that’s artfully curated and a refreshing fusion of contemporary and vintage. With a chef hailing from Paris, he brings an authentic touch to each dish he creates.

Every artisanal bite of Maison de Juliette’s menu is Provençal by inspiration and presented with a contemporary urban understanding of Dubai tastes and creative expectations.

Enigma, the much-talked about restaurant at Palazzo Versace Dubai has launched a new chapter – Taste of Persia – curated by the hotel’s Executive Chef Mansour Memarian. Inspired from his Iranian origins, Chef Mansour has developed a creative gastronomic experience of truly authentic Persian cuisine with his own inimitable twist. Offering a sharing menu, this exceptional experience allows guests to interact with Chef Mansour and his team with several dishes being prepared live. Start your meal with Kotlette Tehrani, a traditional Persian dish made up of crispy potatoes with minced beef, onion juice and saffron. Guests can indulge in a main course made to perfection such as Kabab Versace or a mouthwatering traditional Tehran Dizi, served with homemade condiments and fresh bread, then finish with a delightful Falude to refresh your palate.

The Indian inspired, passionately different and deliciously naughty Masti - Cocktails and Cuisine is new licensed venue open in La Mer by Meraas. Masti which translates to ‘fun and mischief’ infuses modern with tradition, colour with flavour, creating an expression of ‘New India’ and all the tastes your palate will love. Dynamic and daring, the restaurant turns gastronomy on its head, offering a stunning array of inspired plates that take cues and influence from a variety of global flavours. From the mind of legendary and award-winning chef Hari Nayak, the menu offers a reinterpretation of Indian cuisine, designed to share. From small to large plates, to culinary journeys for two and irresistible side dishes, guests will be spoilt for choice. Highlights include, The Black Bass Ceviche and the Bhatti Merguez – yummy!

GO: CALL (0)4 385 5532 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

GO: CALL (0)4 556 8830 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

GO: CALL (0)4 344 4384 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP China Moses

John Legend

GET YOUR JAZZ ON!

Duran Duran

Chillout Productions has announced their final line up of all artists showcasing at the 16th edition of the Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival 2018 and music fans, young and old, are in for a massive treat!

SOME OF THE BIGGEST names in the music industry including that Grammy award-winning Duran Duran, John Legend, and the evergreen Ricky Martin are set to take centre stage with their performances at the festival, taking place at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre between February 21 to 23. Along with these three mega stars, prepare to be mesmerized through power packed performances by masters of Jazz, Renegade Brass Band, China Moses, and Poncho Sanchez. Prepare to witness a jazz festival like no other with beats, brass, vinyl and lyrics fused together with emotion.

DAY 1: Renegade Brass Band Renegade Bass Band

Having played alongside artists including De La Soul, Grandmaster Flash, Public Enemy and Busta Rhymes, the Renegade Brass Band have established themselves as a premiere hip-hop brass band outfit. They are known for their high-energy live shows and have played packed out gigs at venues around the UK. Their eclectic mix of brass, jazz, beats, and hip-hop will have the crowd dancing before Duran Duran take the stage to headline the festival’s opening night.

Day 2: China Moses Poncho Sanchez

China Moses released her first single “Time” at the age of 16, which only led to more successful albums. Having worked and performed with renowned names like Guru, DJ Mehdi, Karriem Riggins, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Anthony Marshall, the singer has carved her own terrain through her journey of music. She is the rare young, female artist - capable of swinging with the finest and drawing on her innate mastery of tempo. Her soulful voice will pave the way for hugely popular Grammy award-winner John Legend, who is returning to the Emirates Airline Dubai Jazz Festival.

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GO: VISIT WWW. DUBAIJAZZFEST.COM FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION.

Ricky Marin

Day 3: Poncho Sanchez Having been musically influenced by prominent figures of Latin Jazz, conga drummer and composer Chano Pozo and trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, Poncho Sanchez has joined forces multi-Grammy winning trumpeter Terence Blanchard to pay tribute to the two in his previous albums. Growing up in suburban L.A., Sanchez was raised on sensibilities of sounds that included straight ahead jazz, Latin jazz and American soul. His scintillating Latino influenced fusion of sound introduces one of the most popular Latino acts of the last two decades, Ricky Martin, who continues to sell-out venues around the world. ✤

A SEASON OF LOVE Make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable with The St. Regis Dubai.

From a romantic afternoon tea experience to a carefully crafted set menu to suit the special evening, create treasured memories in a destination that truly celebrates the occasion with elegance.

Sidra Afternoon Tea 3:00–6:00 pm, January 20 to February 15, 2018 AED 225 per person BQ – French Kitchen & Bar – 5 course set menu with bottle of grape From 7:00 pm onwards, February 14, 2018 Starting from AED 790 per couple J&G Steakhouse – 5 course set menu with bottle of grape From 7:00 pm onwards, February 14, 2018 Starting from AED 990 per couple The first 200 bookings will be in the draw for a chance to win a Dhamani diamond jewelry.

In partnership with

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Wellness Hours at Saray Spa. Renew for the journey ahead.

Rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.

Book any massage and receive 50% off at Saray Spa. Available weekdays from Sunday to Thursday, between 9am to 2pm.

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE T +971 4 414 6754 | mhrs.dxbjw.spa@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com *Terms and conditions: Offer is subject to availability and advance reservations are required. This offer is valid until 31st March 2018.

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