FACT DUBAI OCTOBER 2020 by Fact ME

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CONTENTS

08 LISTEN UP

ARTS AND CULTURE

29 GO LOCAL

STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

FACT FINDS

FACT AWARDS

LOCAL INSIGHT

NEW IN TOWN

FOODIE CORNER

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• THE EDITOR

CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET?

“

"People don't take trips – trips take people." – John Steinbeck

020 has been a strange year on planet Earth. While the global pandemic allowed us time at home for introspection, baking and one too many home yoga workouts, the repercussions of COVID-19 continue to affect our

FACT Magazine Dubai Edition • OCTOBER 2020 VOLUME 03, ISSUE 11

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHERS EDWARD SMITH RAMI KHALIL EDITOR DAVID TAPLEY (david@fact-magazine.com) ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT

lives in more ways than we could have ever imagined!

While travel is cautiously resuming, many of us are instead deciding to stay home and explore the cities we call home, so this month we've compiled a handy A to Z guide to Dubai. Think of everything from off the beaten path finds to foodie hidden gems (p29). It's that time of year again, and as awards season approaches, I couldn't be happier to be at the helm of Fact Dubai. Every year when the Fact Dining Awards come around, it's nothing but fun times, especially as Dubai has some of the world's best restaurants on its doorstep. Turn to p20 and check out all the nominees for the 4th annual event where we celebrate the best and favourites in the city. Your vote counts so head on over to www.fact-magazine.com for more information and to make sure you've supported your favourite venues. For lovers of all things local, we've got a Q&A with Matt Toogood the CEO and Founder of Raw Coffee Company (p48); and plenty of food envy in the form of our monthly picks - our New In Town hotspot is 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant (p69); our culinary

CONTRIBUTORS SAMIA QAIYUM ELANUR SENGEL PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION NEIL MAHMOOD AJIT KUMAR SALES COORDINATOR KIA MARIE PLACIDO ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES EDWARD SMITH (edward@ohlala-magazine.com) PRINTED BY UNITED PRINTING PRESS

spotlight is Asil at Rixos Premium Dubai (p73); and for our Foodie Corner, we visit Kushi by Reif from acclaimed Chef Reif Othman (p77). And if that wasn't enough, we've got a look at the first-ever BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé in City Rides (p55). Plus fashion, tech and the most prominent dining and society news. October is the gateway to cooler temperatures making their way into the Dubai atmosphere and we can't wait to finally visit a restaurant and sit outside on the terrace. We'll see you in November and until then, happy reading! J

David Tapley Editor david@fact-magazine.com

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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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“The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land.” – G.K. Chesterton

ISSUU.COM FACT Dubai 71,949 reads of the September issue 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 more in Dubai.

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CHECK IT OUT •

FACT FINDS

TACO-RIFFIC TULUM TASTY TACOS WITH A SIDE OF DUBAI FOUNTAIN VIEWS!

ulum is officially open on the rooftop of the Fashion Avenue inside The Dubai Mall. A new go-to spot for Mexican cravings, Tulum combines its desirable location with delicious Mexican cuisine and an atmosphere to keep you entertained. The new Mexican concept invites guests to experience exotic flavours and learn about Mexico’s gastronomic contribution to the world and features a menu created and presented by Mexican chefs. The objective of the restaurant is clear, and that is to create an exciting culinary concept to delight diners with a range of traditional Mexican dishes. The menu utilises specific native ingredients such as chocolate, tomato, avocado, corn and chillies to ensure a flavoursome experience for all! The menu has been cleverly divided into distinct sections with playful descriptions, such as “the flavours of Mexico in one hand” and includes Mexican Street Style Corn, Roasted Bone Marrow Tacos and Grilled Lobster Quesadillas. For more abundant portions, the main courses offer a range of appealing choices such as Baked Mexican Wild Caught Jumbo Shrimp, Yucatan-

Style Braised Veal “Piblil” and Braised Duck Leg Carnitas. Fusing the tradition with the contemporary, Tulum has been purposefully designed as a family dining destination and features colourful decor and a beautiful terrace that offers one of the best views of the Dubai Fountains. The spectacle of the fountains is not the only entertainment on offer, as Tulum also features an in-house Mariachi band who will serenade your table, singing Mexican classics and even a rendition of Happy Birthday if you’re celebrating. It wouldn’t be a Mexican meal without your favourite desserts and guests will be pleased to know that both Churros and Tres Leches are served with gleeful presentation from the friendly team. Spice up your life this month by visiting Tulum. We’re sure it’ll be a flavour fiesta for the entire family. ✤

GO: EMAIL INFO@TULUM.AE OR CALL (0)4 514 0135 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

SUNSET HOSPITALITY GROUP TO OPEN THREE NEW RESTAURANTS THIS MONTH. The openings include a Spanish concept, Turkish and Lebanese fusion lounge and a new Black Tap location. Sunset Hospitality Group continues to expand its growing portfolio in the region with three new venue openings. This month, the group introduces classic Spanish flavours with LOLA, Turkish and Lebanese fusion at Cloud, and familiar favourites at the latest Black Tap in Mall of the Emirates. Located at Studio One Hotel in Dubai Studio City, Cloud will be the home of a deliciously authentic and fabulously fresh Lebanese and Turkish dining experience, serving as a neighbourhood hub to the surrounding communities in Arabian Ranches, Motor City, Sports City and DAMAC Hills. With a distinctly Mediterranean look and feel achieved via the use of pastel colours, the lounge aims to feel light, breezy and approachable. At the same time, textures and tactile elements bring a touch of the rich history of Turkey and Lebanon into the venue. Cloud is set to be recognised for its delectable menu, vibrant music, and relaxed atmosphere and will be open from sunset until late. From the busy streets of modern Barcelona to the ancient port of Cádiz where the Andalusian folklore Lola Flores originates, LOLA pays tribute to Spanish cuisine and culture in a casual and relaxed taverna-like atmosphere and will be located at TRYP by Wyndham Barsha Heights. Combining food cooked from the 8

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heart and music from the soul, LOLA looks to bring back long Spanish family lunches that turn into dinners and as the night evolves, migrates from a casual dining taverna into a lively evening atmosphere. Lorenzo Marras, Managing Director - Dining at Sunset Hospitality Group, said, “We are very excited to be launching such unique concepts to the region and to continue to grow our portfolio in these challenging times. LOLA will transport diners to the streets of Andalusia, Spain.” The Group also continues its expansion of the renowned Black Tap brand across the Middle East, opening the eighth location at Mall of the Emirates, which comes in quick succession to the recently opened Black Tap in The Dubai Mall. Sunset Hospitality Group continues to grow its impressive portfolio with over 20 projects currently underway for the Middle East and beyond. ✤

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

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KOKO BAY BRINGS BALI CHIC TO WEST BEACH, PALM JUMEIRAH The new beachfront venue offers up Insta-worthy drinks and comfort food. A fresh new beachfront restaurant, Koko Bay has opened on the picturesque West Beach development on Palm Jumeirah. Inspired by the beaches of Bali, the restaurant offers pleasing boho-chic interiors plus a toes in the sand al fresco dining experience. Featuring a menu of modern Asian and Europeaninfluenced dishes, alongside bespoke beverages, Koko Bay is ideal for those looking for a relaxed afternoon or an enchanting evening under the stars. Visit for the breathtaking sunset views and stay late into the evening. Showcasing healthy salads, a raw bar, hearty mains and a wood-fired Robata grill tended to by a dedicated grill master, the Koko Bay culinary team has dreamt up an extensive menu packed with flavours, colours and premium ingredients. Guests can tuck into starters such as lava prawns, assorted grilled skewers, Hokkaido scallop ceviche with a citrus granita and a selection of unique maki rolls such as organic quinoa, crispy kale and beetroot. For the main event, choose from piping hot plates of Nasi goreng, Cantonese style steamed red snapper, slow-cooked

beef cheeks, Koko Bay fish and chips, or dive into succulent burgers, crisp salads and perfectly grilled seafood and meats from the wood-fired Robata grill. For those with a sweet tooth, the flambéed white chocolate dome, refreshing mochi and a zesty dropped lemon tart all come highly recommended. Koko Bay takes advantage of its picture-perfect beachfront location and offers a casual yet chic setting. The venue features light and airy interiors and notable Balinese influences that include natural handwoven materials, a neutral colour palette and rustic finishes. The indoor décor spills out onto the spacious terrace and private beach so guests can relax upon a sun lounger or take a dip in the ocean. Handy lockers and an onsite shower facility will make it easy for beachgoers to transition from the restaurant to the sand. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.KOKOBAY.CO FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ LISTEN UP

SAY CIAO TO IL PASSAGGIO A taste of the Mediterranean to entice diners to The Pointe. A new Italian restaurant has opened its doors at The Pointe. Il Passaggio which means "The Passage" in Italian is a homegrown Mediterranean inspired restaurant and the latest foodie hotspot to open on Palm Jumeirah. Guests enter through a passage that intersects the kitchen to discover an airy restaurant with a vaulted glass roof; orangery inspired kitchen gallery, fresh white walls and a touch of luxe from the marble tables and unique light fixtures. Diners are encouraged to relax upon wicker furniture on the terrace, and with a panoramic view across Palm Bay, it's as close to the beautiful Amalfi Coast as you're likely to get in Dubai. The menu is an eclectic mix of Mediterranean cuisine with French and Italian influences that is prepared within open plan glass kitchens, providing guests with the opportunity to view the bakery, pasta, pizza and dessert teams in action. If you're lucky, you may even be able to grab a seat at the pizza station and watch your dough being prepared before being cooked in the glass pizza oven. II Passaggio's culinary team takes traditional flavours and add 10

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a touch of modern flair, to create an all-day menu bursting with vibrant colours and rich textures. Take your morning stroll along the pointe promenade and enjoy a leisurely start to the day. Breakfast highlights include Acai Bowls, French Toast, Shakshuka, Truffle Croissant and three Breakfast Combos. All served with unlimited house brewed tea or coffee. There's also a range of soups, salads, burgers, pizzas and pasta dishes, with highlights including the Truffle Tear and Share, Quinoa Salad, Steak Burger, Il Passaggio Pizza and Mama's Lasagna. Make sure you save some room for the Homemade Ice Cream or Tiramisu. With family and community at the heart of the Il Passaggio concept, there is also a special curated children's menu available, and with The Pointe being a pet-friendly location too, your pooch is more than welcome. â&#x153;¤

GO: EMAIL HELLO@ILPASSAGGIO.COM OR CALL (0)4 587 3111 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

SKY HIGH BRUNCHING Brunch at TWENTY THREE, the rooftop hotspot in Media City. TWENTY THREE Rooftop Bar is a hotspot in Media City that challenges the perception of luxury and exclusivity, offering an affordable and chic experience without being pretentious. Located on the 23rd floor of the Grand Plaza Mövenpick Media City, the venue has launched its much-awaited Friday brunch, where guests can discover a TWENTY THREE culinary experience that combines panoramic urban sunset views with good food, and a pleasant atmosphere for a relaxing weekend afternoon. Following the renowned ‘23’ theme, the international cuisine showcased at the brunch features a delicate yet luscious menu served to the table amidst an elegant setup. Every Friday from 1:23pm to 4:23pm guests are invited to dip into a world of flavours, where every form of comestible and libation is carefully crafted. Whilst entering into an elegant yet uncomplicated venue, food gourmands and brunch enthusiasts are greeted with the vibrant beats of UK House DJ Natalie Brogan, and the unique creations from both the bartenders and chefs. Whet the appetite with cold and hot appetisers such as line-caught wild sea bass ceviche, home-cured citrus dill salmon and Persian feta with green olive

tapenade. Then dive into a selection of succulent dishes that includes sesame tempura crudité with ponzu mayo, dry-rubbed Australian flank steak with heirloom tomatoes and chimichurri sauce, a trio of baby gem sliders, or opt for the five-herb ravioli with chanterelles, roasted tomato coulis and basil oil. Brunch is not complete without decadent desserts and at TWENTY THREE guests can indulge in sweet treats like lavenderinfused macaroons, composite-flamed lemon curd tart, delicate baba and a refreshing Italian lemon and raspberry sorbet. As afternoon leads into the evening, unwind on the terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Palm Jumeirah and take in the spectacular sunset views. The TWENTY THREE Brunch is ideal for food connoisseurs and culinary gourmands and is priced at AED 189 (soft beverages) and AED 289 (house beverages). ✤

GO: CALL (0)54 723 1425 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

THE ONLY MEAT FOR THE STREET Burger brand Pickl heads out on the road with the launch of The Outpost. Pickl, the popular local burger brand, has a new set of wheels and is headed out on the road with the launch of its latest venture The Outpost. For this new pop-up, a shiny food truck will be rolling into the suburban neighbourhood of Uptown Mirdif for the upcoming months, before touring the furthest reaches of the UAE in early 2021. The Outpost is home to a full mobile kitchen and will be open every day from 11am to 1am, meaning those late-night burger cravings can be perfectly satiated! The Outpost’s menu will showcase Pickl’s signature burgers, dirty fries and indulgent shakes. Menu favourites include the gloriously sloppy BBQ Bacon Cheese Burger, a meaty marvel that will leave you swooning after the first mouthful. With beef shipped into Dubai from the USA and soft potato buns that soak up juices like no other, each meaty delight is handmade for your eating pleasure. Sandos have become quite the sensation in the city of late 12

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and Pickl’s feisty Chicken Sando offers a complex creation humming with flavour and is available in various spice levels. For vegetarians, there’s the Beyond Burger, a faux-meat option to satisfy any burger craving! Pickl’s Founder Stephen Flawith said, “The idea behind The Outpost was to create a mobile piece of Pickl that lives outside of the city, providing the full Pickl experience to the farthest reaches of the UAE.” Prepared with premium quality Angus beef and fresh chicken, which are both hormone-free and antibiotic-free, Pickl fans can be assured the food from The Outpost will be fresh, cooked-toorder and mouthwateringly delicious. If you know, you know! ✤

GO: EMAIL HELLO@EATPICKL.COM FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

LISTEN UP •

TEMPTING TAIKUN Taikun Pan Asian Restaurant and Lounge has officially reopened its revamped doors. Having undergone a subtle refurbishment during its temporary closure, Taikun situated in the heart of Downtown Dubai is back with a new layout, intricate décor and an elevated culinary offering. FACT visited recently for a peek at the new-look venue which is set to reposition itself as both a dinner and nightlife venue. The atmosphere is decidedly lively as we enter into the dark and intimate venue. Bamboo fans sway hypnotically overhead, and there’s a furore in the bright show kitchen, where noodles are rapidly hand-pulled, and meats are skewered and grilled to perfection. Seated comfortably upon beautifully upholstered furniture, we can pause and take in the intricate interiors with their Japanese influence. Libations abound from a menu of expertly crafted mixology, but it’s the succinct menu of Pan Asian favourites that immediately captures our attention. The menu, conceptualised by Lincoln Hospitality’s Group Executive Chef Brian Voelzing features all of your everyday favourites such as Dynamite Shrimp and Miso Cod, plus a whole host of veritable delights. Beginning with the seabass ceviche which is light, fruity and elevated thanks to the use of pomegranate and mango, we swiftly devour the Salmon Carpaccio with its paper-thin slices of

raw fish accompanied by sesame ponzu and dry chilli. An enticing array of sushi choices includes the Wasabi Tuna, fiery Volcano maki and the impressive Wagyu Tataki Roll, which utilises fresh truffle, truffle ponzu and light truffle aioli. From the wok, you can expect to find chicken cashew and Malay beef with shitake mushrooms, while from the robata grill options include the avocado teriyaki and yuzu chimichurri striploin. Dessert offers theatrics akin to the dinner shows that the venue is set to launch towards the end of the year. An exciting Coconut Crème Brûlée boats the signature burnt sugary top alongside plumes of smoke from the dry ice which is used for presentation. Taikun is three experiences in one, upmarket restaurant, vibrant lounge and beautiful garden. The latter is set to open any day now, just in time for al fresco dining season. Marrying the tranquillity of Asia with the vibrant energy of Downtown Dubai, this is one restaurant you don’t want to miss this October. ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 528 3780 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

CAFÉ 302 OPENS AT BURJUMAN ARJAAN BY ROTANA Eat, drink and chat at the new social neighbourhood venue. BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana, the contemporary apartment hotel located in the heart of Bur Dubai, has opened its brand new Café 302. A popular urban restaurant-café concept, the opening marks the second location for the brand, joining Café 302 in Abu Dhabi at sister property Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana. A haven of earthy colours and modern design set amidst a chic ambience, Café 302 provides a stylish and casual location to enjoy a leisurely meal, a light bite or to sip on speciality coffee. The restaurant is open from breakfast through to dinner so you can feast on healthy goodies all day long! Highlights from the menu include all-day breakfast dishes such as Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, Super Food Bowl, and Main Courses including the signature Café 302 Burger and Roast Chicken with crunchy vegetables and thyme sauce. Ulrich Hoffmeister, Cluster General Manager for BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana and Jumeira Rotana commented, “The new Café 302 in Dubai is yet another complementary concept within Rotana’s innovative and developed food and beverage brands, all of which give the dining experience at Rotana a real edge.” “One of the biggest selling points of Café 302 in Dubai is that we serve healthy, homemade food with only the best ingredients and catering to an array of dietary preferences. We continue to see huge demand from consumers, with the number of individuals 14

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embracing vegan, vegetarian and Jain friendly regimes growing rapidly; hence our decision to add to our menu a new era of plant-based cuisines,” he added. The Café 302 team brings a unique mix of culinary and beverage expertise to offer the very best in quality and health-oriented cuisine. The vast menu choices include an array of vegan, Jainfriendly and vegetarian selections, from Paneer Korma, Red Quinoa and White Bean Burger to Jain Thali and dairy-free Chocolate and Salted Caramel Cheesecake. For those in a rush, Café 302 also provides a broad range of delicious ‘to go’ items for food lovers and coffee enthusiasts. The charming neighbourhood local, strategically positioned within the hotel and BurJuman Mall complex, is an ideal space to relax, read, have good conversations, hold meetings or work. If you’ve been to the popular Abu Dhabi location, then you already know what to expect and if not, then it’s about time you discovered the charm of Café 302 for yourself. ✤

GO: EMAIL CAFE302.BURJUMAN@ROTANA.COM OR CALL (0)4 352 4444 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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PALM BAY OPENS AT CLUB VISTA MARE The new beachfront restaurant brings a taste of the Caribbean to Palm Jumeirah. A bright new restaurant has opened its doors at Club Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. Palm Bay is a fresh and funky new concept that offers informal social dining with a taste of the Caribbean. Step away from the sandy shoreline, and inside you’ll discover colourful furniture, neon signs and Instagramable murals with phrases like “your vibe attracts your tribe.” Outside on the terrace, there is a choice of two gardens to sit back and relax in, while you sip a chilled beverage and savour the beachfront views. Soul food is the name of the game at Palm Bay, and for those unfamiliar with Caribbean cooking, expect a fusion of African, Cajun, Creole, European and Latin American influences. The food is said to be full of flavour and massively moreish and comes from Palm Bay’s Head Chef Gregory. Born and raised in Saint Vincent; he went to ply his tasty trade in Barbados before taking his talents to the United States, England, Poland and South Africa. Every

country along the way has flavoured his cooking style, but to this day, his grandmother’s home cooking in the Caribbean remains his most significant kitchen influence. An extensive beverage menu is available to complement the food, with everything from fresh fruity mixed drinks to nononsense cold ones to quench your thirst. The restaurant is open from morning until night, so whether it’s your morning coffee, a lunchtime meeting or a late-night celebration, Palm Bay has you covered. ✤

GO: EMAIL RESERVATIONS@PALMBAYDUBAI.COM OR CALL (0)4 554 2665 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• LISTEN UP

OCTOBER HAPPENINGS AT JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS DUBAI From Restaurant Month and Backyard brunches to Halloween surprises, this iconic destination of exceptional taste has you covered this month. With a plethora of dining options available to visitors and guests, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai has carved out quite the reputation as a lifestyle hotel with a difference. For October things show absolutely no sign of slowing down for the five-star Business Bay address with the launch of some exciting new promotions and the return of some old favourites. This October food fans can unlock a world of culinary delights with the launch of JW Marriott Marquis’ very own restaurant month. Featuring an array of culinary delights from across the globe and encompassing eight award-winning restaurants, restaurant month will run from October 1 to 31. The idea is to provide diners with the opportunity to explore the hotel’s diverse restaurant repertoire at reduced prices, with participating outlets offering a variety of dishes or three-course set-menus. Experience the hotel’s casual dining outlets, Kitchen6, La Farine, Bridgewater Tavern, Café Artois and Positano for AED 89 per person or dine at one of the three signature restaurants - Prime68, Tong Thai and Izakaya - for just AED 195 per person. Brunch favourite Wanderlust returns for a new season where guests are invited to experience an eclectic and exotic journey through taste. Featuring more than ten live stations, including a comprehensive Japanese selection and a variety of beverage 16

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stations, The Wanderlust brunch will satisfy even the most restless foodies, so why not embrace your inner wanderlust and embark on this epicurean adventure. Every Friday, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 425 (house beverage package). New to the brunch game is the Backyard Brunch at Bridgewater Tavern and Café Artois. The ideal venue for a laid-back Friday afternoon with gourmet comfort food, refreshing beverages, sharing platters, a beautifully decorated outside area and fantastic live entertainment. Brunch launches on October 16 and every Friday after that, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 195 (soft beverages) and AED 360 (house beverages). It wouldn’t be October without a Halloween celebration, and of course, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai has you covered! Spooktacular experiences will take place across both The Wanderlust Brunch and Brunch at Bridgewater Tavern on October 30, and also at The Vault on October 30. Win amazing prizes, such as a staycation worth AED 50,000 and be prepared to be terrified by the frightening theme - Lockdown 2.0! ✤

GO: CALL (0)4 414 3000 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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KYO IS STRAIGHT TO THE POINTE Embark on a delectable journey and experience a slice of Japan right here in Dubai. Blending exciting Japanese cuisine with unrestrained views of the Arabian Gulf, KYO, located at The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, offers an authentic experience, characterised by exquisite ingredients and attention-to-detail. The restaurant manifests the essence of its name, blending the concept of ‘today’ and ‘entertainment’ to make the best of each moment of the day. The ultra-stylish and fully licensed restaurant has recently moved from Golden Mile to its new location at The Pointe. It offers indoor seating, arranged in a social design, and an impressive outdoor lounge. The lower level of the venue is dedicated to the dining room, where the decor is sleek and creates a sense of sophistication. Featuring gold accents, bowing wooden beams and a central sushi counter where sashimi and sushi are prepared with the utmost precision, the restaurant space is immediately likeable. This inescapable charm is further complemented by the front of house team who go above and beyond to ensure guest expectations are met. KYO is lead by Head Chef Arturo Mendez, who has mastered the fine art of Japanese cooking and brings over 15 years of experience. Characterised by eclectic cooking techniques and

a unique use of flavours, the KYO menu features Japanese delicacies, showcasing the finest contemporary cuisine, from raw-fish delicacies to classic Teppanyakis. Fact recently visited to sample the menu, which offers an expansive selection, including starters of Ebi No Gyoza, Fatty Tuna Tartar and Japanese Crispy Tacos. The KYO experience is one that blends sophistication with high-quality produce and a flair for presentation. Don’t miss the Wagyu Sashimi which is prepared tableside with the help of a flaming blow torch or the interactivity of the Hot Stone dishes where you can cook your proteins to your required temperature. KYO is both exciting and inventive, effortlessly blending the vivid flavours of Japanese cuisine with a laid-back ambience and exceptional views. Make sure you save room for dessert for the sweet offerings include Chocolate and Passionfruit Brownie and our recommendation, the cherry-infused Sakura Pie. ✤

GO: EMAIL RESERVATIONS@KYORESTAURANT.COM OR CALL (0)4 557 5182 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ ARTS & CULTURE

AN EXPLORATION OF UAE ART FACT chats to Emirati multidisciplinary artist Maisoon Al Saleh about her inspirations and her latest project, The Paintly Store.

Why did you decide to become an artist? It has been my passion since I was a child to create art. I always had my crayons and colouring book with me anywhere I would go, and in some cases, I would end up scribbling on the house interior walls, and that drove my mum crazy. As I grew up, I told my mum how I could relate to my wall scribbles - I was creating a mural! Have you always had a keen interest in the arts? Yes, I feel I reached a stage in my career (exhibiting in 16 countries so far, and around 100 exhibitions) that it's time to give back to the community with the knowledge I've gained by supporting emerging artists to grow in their artistic careers. That's why I established The Paintly Store back in 2018. How does it feel to be one of the most celebrated Emirati artists in the country? It wasn't an easy journey. It was a lot of time spent working on my artworks and moments where I had serious injuries during my work process. For example, an aluminium sheet fell on my head from the fourth floor of one of the buildings where I was working on a mural, and I ended up in the emergency room. My hands got cast a couple of times from regularly painting for long hours, and that resulted in injuring my hand muscles. I also remember once when I went for a dive to create artworks underwater. I had an issue with my scuba diving equipment that resulted in seawater bursting into my mouth and nose, and I couldn't breathe. I was 18

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lucky to be alive and pulled up by one of the divers. Looking back at all that happened to me, it was worth it. Who are your inspirations in the art world? I get inspired by my daily surroundings. Either friends, family members or even strangers I may come across during my travels. My works reflect on true stories that have been created in a surreal way. As the owner of The Paintly Store, could you please tell us about the concept? During my experience exhibiting internationally, I noticed that there are so many hidden talents within the UAE-based artistic community. However, not many have the know-how to break into the international art market. The Paintly Store was established to transfer my knowledge to emerging artists and help them grow towards exhibiting at a global level. What can visitors expect when they visit the store, aside from the range of artworks by UAE-based artists? The Paintly Store hosts artist open calls and that's where we get to select the artists. We hold virtual workshops (some are free and others cost only AED 20 AED) and art service packages to support artists in either writing their artistic statement, one-toone virtual meetings to tackle down specific points of focus. Plus advice on how they could price their artworks and build their portfolio.

ARTS & CULTURE â&#x20AC;˘

You have been known to paint underwater. Can you please explain how this came about and your creative process when creating these artworks? I was sitting in the living room with my grandfather and was listening to his story of how he survived the Dara passenger ship incident after it sank. I decided to get my scuba diving license back in 2010 and started to create part of the artworks inspired by the story underwater. I used waterproof, heatproof and against UV light materials to make it. Do you have any quick advice for young artists in the UAE looking to start a career? Do what you're passionate about, and failing is just part of the process. Failure helps you to grow further in your career, so never give up trying. Who do you admire most in the art world, and why? I can't specify one person I feel each artist is unique in their own way. Can you please tell us your thoughts on the flourishing arts and culture scene in the UAE? Compared to when I first started until now, I have noticed how the creative economy in UAE has been increasing, and new museums opened up. You recently launched Mystery Art Boxes, where unknown creative art supplies are delivered straight to your door. What was the idea behind this, and how have customers taken to the challenge? There is so much to create out of limited art supplies, and it just allows you to step back from your day to day routine and break it with a Mystery Art Box. We also support in selling the best pieces and those that are worth sharing on our online store. We've had customers buying the boxes as gifts for family members, and some purchased it for the whole family as they found it to be a great way to unite everyone together on one table and have a good time.

Where are your favourite places in Dubai to experience the arts? Al Serkal Avenue, a great place to catch up with my artist friends.â&#x153;¤

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

How do you discover local artists to showcase, and how is it working with local talent? Artist open calls happen now and then, and these help to discover talented artists. I recommend any artist interested in subscribing to visit our website www.thepaintlystore.com so they can be notified of the next opportunity. As a renowned artist yourself, you have participated in over 100 art exhibitions across 16 countries. How do you feel representing your country for the art world when you travel? It's an honour. What's the greatest honour or compliment you've received as an artist? It's the little things in life that I consider the greatest, like giving someone advice and getting to know down the line how it rippled positively across their career. fact magazine

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FACT DINING AWARDS •

NOMINEES REVEALED! VOTING IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 4TH ANNUAL FACT DINING AWARDS DUBAI 2020. HAS YOUR FAVOURITE VENUE BEEN NOMINATED?

HOW IT WORKS: l 42 categories with over 300 nominees. l There are two winners in each category: BEST and FAVOURITE. l BEST is decided by an anonymous panel of judges made up of industry experts, reputed bloggers and the editorial team. l FAVOURITE is decided through online public voting.

l An award ceremony will take place later this year.We’ll be revealing the details very soon, so stay tuned... l FACT Dining Awards is part of a wider initiative by FACT M.E. with annual ceremonies in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain too.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE NOMINEES! VOTE NOW ON WWW.FACT-MAGAZINE.COM fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

International:

• Gastro Kitchen – DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach • Monty’s – Address Montgomerie • Noire – Fairmont Dubai • Observatory Bar & Grill – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites • Play Restaurant & Lounge – The H Dubai • The Restaurant – Address Boulevard • Trader Vic's – Crowne Plaza Dubai

Pan Asian:

• 3 Fils – Jumeirah Fishing Harbour • Asia Asia – Pier 7 • BB Social Dining – DIFC • Beachcombers - Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Blue Jade – The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR • Buddha-Bar Dubai – Grosvenor House Dubai • LAH LAH – Zabeel House by Jumeirah, The Greens • Lao – Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Mekong – Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort 22

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Latin American:

• Chamas Churrascaria & Bar - Crowne Plaza Dubai • Coya – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Hotel Cartagena – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • INKA Dubai – Sofitel Downtown Dubai • Fogueira Restaurant & Lounge Delta Hotels by Marriott, Jumeirah Beach • Gaucho Dubai – DIFC • La Carnita – InterContinental Dubai Marina • LIMA Dubai – City Walk • Maya Mexican Kitchen & Bar – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort • Toro Toro – Grosvenor House Dubai

Mexican:

• Cantina 1810 – Grand Excelsior Hotel • La Tablita – Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights • Loca Restaurant & Bar Dubai – Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa • Luchador – Aloft Palm Jumeirah

• Maya Mexican Kitchen & Bar – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort • Muchachas – Holiday Inn Express Safa Park • Puerto 99 – Bluewaters Dubai • Tortuga – Jumeirah Mina A’Salam • Zoco – The Atrium, Al Habtoor City

Chinese:

• Din Tai Fung – Mall of the Emirates • Hakkasan Dubai – Atlantis The Palm • Hong Loong Chinese Restaurant – Sofitel Dubai The Palm • Lang Kwai Fong – Oud Metha • Long Teng Seafood Restaurant – Business Bay • Long Yin – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Maiden Shanghai – FIVE Palm Jumeirah • Royal China – DIFC • Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Dubai • Zhen Wei – Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai

British:

• Dhow & Anchor – Jumeirah Beach Hotel

FACT DINING AWARDS •

• Geales – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa • Great British Restaurant – Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel • Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen – Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai • Pots, Pans & Boards – JBR • Reform Social & Grill – The Lakes • Rhodes W1 – Grosvenor House Dubai • The Croft – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites • The London Project – Bluewaters Dubai • The Restaurant – Address Downtown • The Scene by Simon Rimmer – Pier 7

North American & Caribbean:

• Black Tap – Various Locations • Claw BBQ – Souk Al Bahar • Miss Lily’s – Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai • Nola Eatery & Social house – Armada Blue Bay Hotel • Ribs & Brews – Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City

• Soul Restaurant & Bar – Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach • Stars N Bars – La Mer • Ting Irie – Souk Al Manzil • Weslodge Saloon – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

European:

• At.mosphere Restaurant & Lounge – Burj Khalifa • Bebemos – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • BOCA – DIFC • Carine – Emirates Golf Club • El Sur – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Flamingo Room by tashas – Jumeirah Al Naseem • Folly by Nick & Scott – Souk Madinat Jumeirah • Marina Social by Jason Atherton – InterContinental Dubai Marina • MINA Brasserie – Four Seasons Hotel DIFC • Salero Tapas & Bodega – Kempinski Mall of the Emirates • Toro + Ko – City Walk

Middle Eastern & North African: • Al Maeda – Double Tree By Hilton hotel Dubai – Jumeirah Beach • Al Nafoorah - Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Ayamna - Atlantis The Palm • Baba – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Enigma – Palazzo Versace Dubai • Makan Restaurant & Café - La Mer • Ninive – Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Shabestan – Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek • Tagine – One&Only Royal Mirage • The Courtyard – Manzil Downtown • Zou Zou – La Mer

Thai Casual Dining:

• Bambooda - Mövenpick Grand Al Bustan Dubai • Café Isan – JLT • Mango Tree Thai Bistro – JBR • Miss Tess – Taj Dubai • The Royal Budha – Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha • Wise Kwai – DusitD2 Kenz Hotel

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

Thai Fine Dining:

• Benjarong – Dusit Thani Dubai • Mekong – Anantara The Palm Dubai • Pai Thai – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah • Sukhothai – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • The Thai Kitchen – Park Hyatt Dubai • Thiptara – The Palace Downtown • Tong Thai – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Mediterranean:

• Armani/Mediterraneo – Armani Hotel • Atelier M – Pier 7 • Brasserie du Park – The Promenade, Park Hyatt Dubai • Chival – La Ville Hotel & Suites • L’Olivo Ristorante – Rixos The Palm Dubai • Seagrill Bistro – Fairmont The Palm • The Lighthouse – D3 24

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Greek:

• Ammos Greek Restaurant – Azure Beach Dubai • Avli by tashas – DIFC • Elia Greek Restaurant – Majestic City Retreat Hotel • GAIA – DIFC • Mythos Kouzina & Grill – JLT • OPA – Fairmont Dubai • Shimmers – Jumierah Mina A’ Salam • Taverna Greek Kitchen – Souk Madinat Jumeirah

French Casual Dining:

• Bistro Des Arts – Dubai Marina • Chez Charles – D3 • Couqley French Bistro & Bar – JLT • DRIFT Beach Dubai – One&Only Royal Mirage • Pierre's Bistro & Bar – InterContinental Dubai Festival City • St. Tropez Bistro – Mall of the Emirates

French Fine Dining:

• Bistrot Bagatelle – Fairmont Dubai • Bleu Blanc Oysters & Grill – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • LPM Restaurant & Bar – DIFC • La Cantine du Faubourg – Jumeirah Emirates Towers • La Serre Bistro & Boulangerie – Vida Downtown Dubai • Rue Royale restaurant – The Pointe • Stay by Yannick Alleno – One&Only The Palm

Indian

• Ananta – The Oberoi, Dubai • Armani Amal – Armani Hotel Dubai • Bombay Brasserie – Taj Dubai • Indego by Vineet – Grosvenor House Dubai • Khyber – Dukes The Palm, A Royal Hideaway Hotel

FACT DINING AWARDS •

• Little Miss India – Fairmont The Palm • MAHEC by Satish Arora – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • MASTI Cocktails & Cuisine – La Mer • Mint Leaf of London – DIFC • Nina – One&Only Royal Mirage • Trèsind Dubai – VOCO Dubai • Zoya by Maui – Sofitel Dubai The Palm

Italian Casual Dining:

• Andiamo! – Grand Hyatt Dubai • BASTA! – Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai • Brunello – Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah • Bussola – The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Casa Mia – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Certo – Radisson Blu Dubai Media City • Luigia – Rixos Premium Dubai • MATTO – The Oberoi Dubai • Positano – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Prego’s – Media Rotana Dubai • Torno Subito – W Dubai, The Palm • Vanitas – Palazzo Versace Dubai

Italian Fine Dining:

• BiCE Ristorante – Hilton Dubai Jumeirah • Cinque – FIVE Palm Jumeirah • Cipriani – DIFC • Il Borro Tuscan Bistro – Jumeirah Al Naseem • Il Ristorante by Niko Romito - Bvlgari Resort Dubai • Marea – DIFC • Roberto’s Restaurant & Lounge – DIFC • Scallini – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Social by Heinz Beck – Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Solo – Raffles Dubai

Japanese Casual Dining:

• Akiba Dori - D3 • Izakaya – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Katsuya by Starck – Jumeirah Al Naseem • Kiku – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel &

Conference centre • Miyako – Hyatt Regency Dubai • Reif Japanese Kushiyaki – Dar Wasl Mall

Japanese Fine Dining:

• Akira Back - W Dubai, The Palm • Armani/Hashi – Armani Hotel Dubai • Hōseki – Bvlgari Resort Dubai • Kohantei – Downtown Dubai • Netsu – Mandarin Oriental Jumeira • Nobu Dubai – Atlantis The Palm • Paru - Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai • TOMO – Raffles Dubai • Wakame - Sofitel Dubai Downtown • Zuma – DIFC

All Day Dining:

• Brasserie 2.0 – Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa • Celsius - VOCO Dubai • Epicure – Meliá Desert Palm Hotel • Ewaan – Palace Downtown • Feast – Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai • Flow Kitchen – Fairmont The Palm • Horizon – Amwaj Rotana • Kitchen6 – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Liwan Restaurant - Swissôtel Al Ghurair • Sloane’s – Grosvenor House Dubai

Café:

• 21 Grams - Park Regis Boutique Jumeirah • Brothaus – Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay • Cafe Ryder - Al Quoz • Cake – The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Counter Culture Café – Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites • Craft Café – D3 • Jolie Floral Boutique & Café – City Walk • Leen's Casual to Gourmet – Jumeirah Beach Road • Revo Café – Various Locations • Single Fin Café – Jumeirah Beach Road • Tom & Serg – Al Quoz

Tea Room:

• Aspen – Kempinski Mall of the Emirates

• Choix Patisserie & Restaurant par Pierre Gagnaire – InterContinental Dubai Festival City • Gourmandises – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Kambaa - Address Dubai Marina • La Farine Café and Bakery – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Lounge - Address Boulevard • Mashrabiya Lounge – Fairmont The Palm • Peacock Alley – Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah • Raffles Salon – Raffles Dubai • Shai Salon – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • The Lobby lounge – The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR

Family Friendly:

• Al Maeda – DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach • Bystro Café – Al Manara • Carluccio’s – Various Locations • Jones the Grocer - Al Manara • Kitchen6 – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Lime Tree Café – Various Locations • Maison Mathis – Arabian Ranches • Reform Social & Grill – The Lakes • RIVA Ristorante – RIVA Beach Club, Palm Jumeirah • West 14th Steakhouse – Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel

Vegan Friendly:

• Dirt Burger – Al Quoz • Life’N One Cafe – Jumeirah 1 • Little Erth by NABZ&G – JLT • Soulgreen Dubai – Vida Creek Harbour • Veganity UAE – Al Wasl Road • Wild & the Moon – Al Quoz

Culinary Staycation In The Northern Emirates

• Bab Al Bahr Beach Bar & Grill – Ajman Saray • Drift Seafood Kitchen & Bar – InterContinental Fujairah Resort • Farmhouse – The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert • Kiyi – Fairmont Ajman • Sanchaya – DoubleTree by Hilton Resort and Spa, Marjan Island • Shore House – The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

• Taste – Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort • The Copper Lobster – Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort • UMI – Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah • Waves Beach Restaurant – Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

Seafood:

• Alici – Bluewaters Dubai • Bice Mare – Souk Al Bahar • Café Belge – The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Fish Market – Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek • Moana - Sofitel Dubai The Palm • Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm • Pierchic – Jumeirah Al Qasr • Seafood Market – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Sea Fu – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill – DoubleTree By Hiton Dubai Jumeirah Beach

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Steakhouse:

• Beef Bistro – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Bull & Bear – Waldorf Astoria, DIFC • Graze Gastro Grill & Bar – La Ville Hotel & Suites • Nusr-Et – Four Seasons Dubai Resort at Jumeirah Beach • Porterhouse Steaks and Grills – Sofitel Dubai The Palm Dubai • Prime68 – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Prime Steakhouse – The Meydan Hotel • Seafire – Atlantis The Palm • STK JBR – Rixos Premium Dubai • The Grand Grill – Habtoor Grand Resort Autograph Collection • The Meat Co – Souk Madinat Jumeirah • The Rib Room – Jumeirah Emirates Towers • World Cut Steakhouse – Habtoor Palace Dubai

Al Fresco Dining:

• Cabana – Address Dubai Mall • Eauzone – One&Only Royal Mirage • Fish Beach Taverna – Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Folly by Nick & Scott – Souk Madinat Jumeirah • Joe’s Backyard – Holiday Inn, Dubai Festival City • Le Méridien Village Terrace - Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • NOÉPE – The Promenade, Park Hyatt Dubai • Palm Grill – The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR • Plaj – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray • RIVA Ristorante – RIVA Beach Club • Shimmers – Jumeirah Mina A’ Salam • The Beach House – Anantara, The Palm Dubai Resort • The Tap House – Cub Vista Mare • Zou Zou Restaurant – La Mer

FACT DINING AWARDS •

Pub:

• Bridgewater Tavern – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • JB’s Gastropub – Amwaj Rotana • Kickers Sports Bar – Dubai Sports City • McGettigan's – JBR • McGettigan's – JLT • Nelson’s – Media Rotana Dubai • The Dubliner’s – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • The Duck Hook – Dubai Hills Golf Club • The Eloquent Elephant – Taj Dubai • The Irish Village – Garhoud • The Rose & Crown – The Atrium, Al Habtoor City

Bar:

• Cargo – Pier7 • Grapeskin – La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk • Hendricks Bar – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • Iris Dubai – Meydan • Lock, Stock & Barrel – JBR • Nezesaussi Grill Dubai – Address Dubai Marina • Trader Vic’s – Hilton Dubai Jumeirah • Warehouse – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre

Outdoor Bar:

• 101 Dining Lounge & Bar – One&Only The Palm • Barasti – Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Breeze Beach Grill – Club Vista Mare • Flair No. 5 – The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Jetty Lounge – One&Only Royal Mirage • Key West – Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai • Urban Bar & Kitchen – Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Tower • Wavebreaker – Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

Rooftop Bar:

• Atelier M – Pier 7 • Level 43 – Four Points by Sheraton Hotel • LookUP Rooftop Bar – La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk • Luna Sky Bar – Four Seasons Hotel DIFC

• Mood Rooftop Lounge - The Meydan Hotel • Pure Sky Lounge – Hilton Dubai The Walk • Seven Sisters – JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai • The Penthouse – FIVE Palm Jumeirah • Treehouse – Taj Dubai

Lounge:

• Havana Social Club – Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai • Indie – DIFC • Karma Café – Souk Al Bahar • Mercury Lounge – Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach • Q’s Bar & Lounge – Palazzo Versace Dubai • Roberto’s Restaurant & Lounge – DIFC • Taikun Restaurant & Lounge – Vida Downtown • V Lounge – V Hotel Dubai

Family Brunch:

• Beachcombers – Jumeirah Beach Hotel • Bubbalicious – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • FamilyFest Brunch - Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai • Saturday Family Blunch at Yalumba – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • The Lido – QE2

Party Brunch:

• Brunch Out Loud at Lucky Voice – Grand Millennium Dubai, Barsha Heights • Brunchology at Yalumba – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Dare To Brunch – STK JBR • Dim Sum Disco Brunch at Maiden Shanghai - FIVE Palm Jumeirah • Hidden Brunch at Tesoro – Taj Dubai, Business Bay • Secret Garden Brunch at Flair No.5 – The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC • Supernatural Pool & Beach Brunch – Zero Gravity • The Big Fat Brunch at Lock, Stock & Barrel – JBR • The Secret Jungle Brunch at Mama Zonia – Pier 7

• Wanderlust Brunch – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai • Warehouse Brunch – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre • Wok & Roll Brunch at Mr Miyagi’s – Media One Hotel

Saturday Brunch:

• Brunch 105 at La Cantine du Faubourg – Jumeirah Emirates Towers • Chill & Grill at Palm Grill – The RitzCarlton Dubai JBR • Fiesta & Siesta Brunch at El Sur – The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina • Geales – Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa • Saturday Grazing Feast at Graze Gastro Grill & Bar - La Ville Hotel & Suites Dubai • Saturdaze at 3in1 – Vida Downtown Dubai • Sundowner Brunch at Bliss Lounge – Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort • The Big Easy Bar and Grill – The Els Club

Friday Brunch – Casual Dining:

• 24th St. World Street Food – Dusit Thani Dubai • Feast – Sheraton Grand Hotel • Hillhouse Brasserie – Dubai Hills Golf Club • Long’s Bar – Towers Rotana • Moombai & Co. – The H Dubai • PizzaExpress Live – DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai, Business Bay • The Secret Jungle Brunch at Mama Zonia – Pier 7 • Via del MATTO at MATTO – The Oberoi Dubai

Friday Brunch – Fine Dining:

• Back at Brunch at Akira Back – W Dubai, The Palm • Brasserie 2.0 – Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa • Café Belge – The Ritz-Carlton DIFC • Coya – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • The Hellicious Brunch at Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen – Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai fact magazine

• FACT DINING AWARDS

• London Social Brunch at Caravan – The Ritz-Carlton Duba JBR • Marina Social – InterContinental Dubai Marina • Nobu Dubai – Atlantis The Palm • Tasca by José Avillez – Mandarin Oriental Jumeriah • Traiteur – Park Hyatt Dubai • Yalumba – Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre

Newcomer – Casual Dining:

• Americano – Souk Madinat Jumeirah • Bombay Borough – DIFC • La Mezcaleria – The Oberoi • Nassau – Jumeirah Golf Estates • Pacific Groove - Paramount Hotel Dubai • Pascal Tepper French Bakery - Four Points by Sheraton Hotel • Salt Bae Burger – DIFC • Sui Mui – The Westin Dubai Mina 28

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Seyahi Beach Resort & Spa • The Locale – Andaz Dubai The Palm • The Maine Land Brasserie - The Opus by Omniyat

Newcomer – Fine Dining

• 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant - The Address Downtown • Amazonico – DIFC • Asil - Rixos Premium Dubai • Aya - CityWalk • CÉ LA VI Dubai - The Address Sky View • Chingón – Grand Millennium Hotel Business Bay • Hutong – DIFC • Indochine – DIFC • Nammos – Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach • ROKA - The Opus by Omniyat • Shanghai ME – DIFC

CAN YOU KEEP A SECRET? FACT BAHRAINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EDITOR SAMIA QAIYUM HAD ONE GOAL BEFORE BIDDING FAREWELL TO HER BIRTHPLACE OF DUBAI: SHARE AN A-Z OF ITS HIDDEN GEMS. HOW MANY HAVE YOU FREQUENTED? fact magazine

• GO LOCAL

A: Archie’s Lending Library and Bookshop Print may be a dying medium, but in the warren-like streets of Karama, the buying and borrowing of titles is alive and well at Archie’s. Opened in 1987, it was initially set up with the help of Yasmine Chinoy’s personal book collection and passion for reading, but hasn’t changed all that much since those days. Outside the store, heavily discounted books in a basket on the pavement await adoption. Inside, Archie’s is crammed with floor-toceiling shelves carrying an eclectic collection of over 80,000 literary gems ranging in condition from crisp and brand new to ready-to-fall-apart.

B: Brix At this tiny, 10-seater spot in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, desserts have been turned into a science experiment – and an art form. Even better: the open-plan kitchen allows diners to watch the talented young chefs slowly assemble the impeccably plated desserts, element by element. It's the Brix Tasting Experience here that we can’t recommend enough. Available as three or five courses, it's sensory overload, but in a good way. On the menu are simple names for incredibly complex desserts. The ‘Mango’, for example, pairs fresh mango pudding with mango compote, Greek yoghurt ice cream, and fried tapioca for an unexpected crunch. The ingenious ‘Texture of Chocolate’, meanwhile, accents carob ice cream with chiliflake meringue and a rich yuzu koshu chocolate sauce, making all other chocolate-based desserts in the city obsolete.

C: Courtyard Playhouse For those who think Dubai lacks culture, listen up. Independent theatre Courtyard Playhouse, located in Al Quoz, is where it all happens – acting classes, improv workshops, theatrical productions of all types, storytelling sessions for kids, and even musical theatre for pre-teens. Our favourite offering here, however, has to be National Theatre Live, an initiative by National Theatre to broadcast the best of British theatre live from the London stage to cinemas around the world. And as Courtyard Playhouse is a partner venue, annual membership will give you access to all NT Live screenings – a guaranteed minimum of 10 per year – alongside other perks. Past screenings have included the likes of Fleabag, Hamlet, and Hedda Gabler.

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GO LOCAL •

D: Dukan Namlet Dukan Namlet is the definitive stop at Al Seef, a leisure destination located on the bustling south bank of Dubai Creek. For one, it’s one of the few places in the country where you can give Namlet – the UAE’s first ever soda – a try. Still unknown to most residents, the drink dates back to the 1920s, when trade between India and UAE flourished. It had just about disappeared by the 1980s, and has only recently returned. Not only are some of the flavours downright creative – pomegranate and kiwi-lemon included – but the quirky codd-neck bottle also makes Namlet a culinary experience on its own.

E: EKart Zabeel Adulting is hard – and 2020 is harder – so take the weekend to indulge your inner child already. The recently opened Ekart Zabeel is reason enough to (finally) explore the nine-floor extension of The Dubai Mall. You’ll don a jumpsuit, put on a helmet, and race through a track on the latest generation of electric go-karts. Lap times will be recorded and shared at the end of your session. Bonus: amateur drivers are very much welcome.

F: The Flip Side Calling all melophiles! This list would not be complete without Dubai's first – and only – independent record shop: The Flip Side. Located in Alserkal Avenue and owned by Egyptian DJ Shadi Megallaa, it is a veritable haven for vinyl collectors who, prior to 2017, knew the hurdles of getting their fix online. Not only does the store stock everything from coveted LPs and obscure records from all corners of the globe, but it also boasts four listening stations, screens music documentaries, holds talks on topics surrounding music in the region, and hosts intimate in-store sessions that celebrate the likes of reggae and dub.

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• GO LOCAL

G: Gulf Photo Plus Be it Bombay, Bangkok, or Cairo, life happens on the streets. That’s why we think the skill of street photography is one that anyone with a passport ought to hone. Enter: the photo walks hosted by Gulf Photo Plus. Taking place across areas such as Deira and Karama, these three-hour treks take participants through the colourful and chaotic streets of Old Dubai, guiding them on capturing candid moments, techniques for difficult lighting conditions, and tips on how to compose an image alongside plenty of time for critique and Q&A. Even better? You’ll be taken through routes laced with history and street food. Win-win.

H: History of Cinema Museum To walk into the History of Cinema Museum is to step into a world of mechanical wonders. A cultural gem in Barsha Heights, it charts the progression of visual entertainment from its inception to the advent of early cinema. The engaging collection – over 300 antiques collected by businessman Akram Miknas over the course of 25 years – centres on the ways in which movement was added to the two-dimensional image. The magic of the moving image comes to life through interactive exhibits that take visitors on a journey through time and technology – they can peep into an 18th century peepbox viewer or turn the reel of an early 20th century mutoscope to see the flicker effect. As for the rarest piece? A toy magic lantern with a 1001 Arabian Nights theme from Germany circa 1860. A guided tour, for obvious reasons, comes highly recommended.

I: Inked Another hidden gem in Alserkal Avenue, Inked hosts themed dining pop-ups that utilise "mad methods" to transport guests to fascinating faraway places – think: Germany's majestic Black Forest, Salvador Dalí's legendary dinner parties, Frida Kahlo's storied Casa Azul, and Andy Warhol's iconic 47th Street Factory. Time and time again, the conceptual dining space is guided by "the 7th sense" to create experiences like no other in the city – and no two experiences here are ever the same. Worthy of the splurge? Absolutely.

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J: Jameel Arts Centre There’s more to Dubai’s arts scene than Alserkal Avenue – promise. Few cultural spaces are as versatile as Jameel Arts Centre – the independent institution in the up-and-coming Jaddaf Waterfront area houses contemporary art from the Gulf and beyond alongside the region’s first open-access arts library, project and commissions spaces, seven gardens, a writer’s studio, a restaurant, and an onsite shop rife with unique trinkets. But that’s not all. It’s worth a visit for the adjacent openair sculpture park alone. Bonus: entry is free.

K: Kaffe Bloom Set your daily need for a tall-double-shot-skim-milkno-foam-no-whip mocha from Starbucks aside, and head to Kaffe Bloom instead. Tucked inside lofty Asian supermarket 1004 Gourmet, this specialty café earns bragging rights for its coffee beans alone – it serves coffee roasted by The Barn in Berlin and Fritz Coffee in South Korea. But there's plenty more to look forward to as it also serves Asian favourites like boba, several flavours of bingsoo (shaved ice dessert), and Korean rice dish bibimbap. For something a little more interactive, we love the Japanese and Korean cooking classes led by Chef Tatsu. Just be sure to book well in advance.

L: Lucky Voice In a city associated with glitz and glamour lies a nightlife spot that promises kitsch, no-frills fun night after night after night. Housed inside Grand Millennium Dubai in Barsha Heights, this karaoke bar not only offers a socially sanctioned excuse to flaunt your singing skills, but also serves comfort grub like sliders and tacos. An outpost of the original in London's Soho, Lucky Voice Dubai feels a little more lively and energetic because of its stage, but private booths are also on offer – 11 private and fully soundproof karaoke pods, to be exact. But regardless of where you end up, you'll love the neon colours, dancing light fixtures, and laidback vibe on a night out with friends.

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• GO LOCAL

M: Mazmi Casa Yes, you’ll almost certainly have to ask someone for directions after walking around in what feels like a maze, but that’s what makes Mazmi Casa the definitive hidden gem on this list. Located in Bur Dubai, this intimate (read: three rooms) B&B serves up a truly honest snapshot of the city, what with Textile Souk, Shiva Temple, and Grand Mosque in the vicinity. Mazmi is owned by an Italian woman and her Emirati husband, so adding further diversity to the property is their collective backgrounds. The pièce de résistance is the eponymous restaurant that sits at the edge of Dubai Creek, translating to endless photography opportunities and the city’s ultimate sunset spot. Side note: skipping the homemade saffron ice cream would be sacrilege.

N: Noire They say you eat with your eyes first, so what happens when you're deprived of your sight? Well, a unique culinary adventure, for starters. As a concept, dining in the dark is popular around the world, but few realise it's offered by Noire at Fairmont Dubai. Here, your other senses – particularly smell and taste – are heightened as you dine on gourmet food in a pitch-black setting while servers wearing night-vision goggles tend to you. Scared of the dark? Maybe skip this one.

O: O’de Rose We're spoilt for choice when it comes to concept stores, but there's just something about O’de Rose. Rife with statement pieces, both for yourself and your home, this eclectic boutique in a converted villa on Al Wasl Road has mastered the art of showcasing creative talent from the realms of clothing, accessories, art, furniture, and home décor. The items are handmade and hand-picked from around the world, each reflecting Arabic heritage with a contemporary twist, so expect to see designs by the likes of Nada Debs, Bokja, Silsal, and Rana Salam. We're longterm patrons of this bohemian hotspot for its continued support of local and disadvantaged artisans.

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GO LOCAL •

P: Point Zero Floatation Center You may not necessarily equate aqua with relaxation, making the flotation sessions at this wellness centre in DIFC one of the most unique ways to de-stress in Dubai. While floatation therapy is one of those things that’s best experienced firsthand, here’s a little teaser of what to expect: you’ll float in a highly concentrated solution of epsom salt (magnesium sulphate) in a private cabin or pod. The temperature of the water will be set somewhere between 35.5 and 35.8°C to match the temperature of your skin, and it’s essentially the closest you’ll ever get to being back in the womb again. Bliss.

Q: Q’s Bar and Lounge The name Quincy Jones needs no introduction, but in case you have yet to discover Q's Bar and Lounge, here goes. The award-winning jazz bar is tucked away inside Palazzo Versace Dubai, showcasing world-class performances from emerging artists handpicked by the music legend himself. Versace-designed furniture and unmatched acoustics aside, the stage at Q's has already been graced by talents such as Nalaya Brown, Shameka Dwight, and Rogelio Douglas Jr. – with plenty more to come in a post-coronavirus world. Our point? If you crave the intimate jazz sessions you've caught in cities like New Orleans, Montreal, and Amsterdam, this one's for you.

R: Retold As a society, we can sometimes be a little consumerist – okay, very. Luckily, pre-owned, consignment, and vintage stores like Retold continue to advocate for sustainable fashion. Because it's not located in a mall, some have yet to discover it, and now is the time as it's opening a new location on 6th Street in Al Quoz. For starters, there are over 8,000 items ranging from high-street brands to designer labels (Stella McCartney and Jimmy Choo included) to choose from, all of which are in mint condition. A big part of the store's DNA is giving back, recently partnering up with Gulf for Good. Simply donate the clutter in your closet to Retold, where the team will sort and showcase the pieces. Customers can then shop from the charity collection, the profits of which will be dedicated towards renovating facilities at Enjoro Primary School in Tanzania.

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• GO LOCAL

S: Sonara Camp Eco-friendly, a zero-waste policy, hundreds of oryxes and gazelles, and divine fusion cuisine enjoyed under the stars in the midst of the beautiful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – just about everything at the luxurious Sonara Camp feels like the antidote to the frenzy of the city. The entertainment here ranges from live music and fire shows to quad biking, sandboarding, stargazing with an astronomer, and overnight glamping. You can even take a 30-minute camel ride to the camp if you’re up for a little bumpy fun. We say you’re in their territory, so embrace it!

U: Underdog Boxn Sure, there's no shortage of great yoga studios in the city, but here in Dubai Media City awaits yoga with a twist. The rather aptly named BOXNFLOW class at beloved boxing studio Underdog Boxn offers a mash-up of boxing, yoga, and meditation within a 50-minute session. You'll start by warming up, then release your aggression during a couple of rounds of boxing, before going into a dynamic yoga flow that incorporates poses challenging strength, balance, and coordination. Next up is a series of poses and stretches that focus on lengthening key areas of the body using the principles of yin yoga and, finally, a bout of guided meditation in order to create awareness where you need it most. Because yin and yang, right?

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T: Tribe India, Indonesia, Kenya, Cameroon, Morocco, and more – decorative treasures from over 25 countries come together at Tribe, an independent home décor studio hidden away at The Collective, Al Quoz. Rooted in social responsibility, Tribe is all about ethically sourced products, empowering artisans, and the use of sustainable materials. And because the selection of handmade, fair-trade products is curated by Australian designer Jo England, everything within its walls is impossibly rustic-chic. We spotted bamboo mirrors, rattan baskets, hanging macramé chairs, and ladder shelves made with salvaged wood – easy, breezy furniture and accessories in natural tones and textures that scream tropical holiday.

V: Villa 515 Fragrance aficionados already flock to Villa 515, a one-of-akind boutique in the heart of Jumeirah – and now it's your turn. A haven for niche perfumes, it features a salon for perfume consultations and presentations, but is especially popular for the olfactory workshops held at the laboratory, with two levels ensuring there's something for everyone. Level 1 caters to those who have an interest in learning the basics of perfumery, touching on things like fragrance classification, raw materials, and fragrance mixing using ready bases and accords. Level 2, meanwhile, delves deeper. Instead of using ready bases, participants are allowed to explore fragrance creation using raw materials, and therefore guided on the differences between natural and synthetic raw materials. The common denominator? Everyone walks away with a bespoke fragrance of their own.

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W: The Workshop

X: XVA Hotel

Is it a café, co-working space, concept store, art gallery, antique store, design studio, or events hub? Well, believe it or not, it's actually all of the above. The definitive space if you're feeling crafty and creative, this (very) versatile spot in Jumeirah 2 has hosted workshops on everything from calligraphy and creative writing to custom-blending your own lipstick and creating DIY detox face masks – hence the name. Come cooler weather, you'll love spending an afternoon in its shaded garden, practicing the art of dolce far niente.

Putting art hotels worldwide to shame is XVA Art Hotel, which hosts XVA Gallery and regular talks led by a leading art historian alongside 15 unique rooms themed around cultural motifs. One is inspired by the ancient Hand of Fatima talisman, another boasts an original wind tower, yet another is inspired by the traditional attire worn by local men. The riadlike property is situated deep in the Al Fahidi neighbourhood, so even if you get lost, you’ll encounter public art, authentic souvenir shops, and scenic alleys along the way. Inside are tree-shaded courtyards that exude tranquillity, one of which houses XVA Café, where the dishes are primarily vegetarian and the mint lemonade has achieved cult status.

Z: Zaaz Y: Yui Tricky to find and worth the trouble is Yui, a tiny must-try ramen spot located in d3. Its claim to fame? It happens to be the first handmade ramen house in the Middle East. Here, you'll slurp and bite your way through the hearty likes of ‘Tantanmen’, ‘Shio Paitan’, and ‘Shoyu’. As for the source of all that flavour? Yui's signature broth is simmered for a whopping 10 hours every day. But back to what makes Yui hard to find: it's actually housed within Frame, the region’s first "Japanese lifestyle culture shop", which is brimming with records, collectibles, trainers, skateboards, and all manner of urban knick-knacks.

It’s refreshing – rare even – to discover a wonderful spa that happens to be standalone, saving us the hassle of traipsing through a hotel. Zaaz is nestled in Jumeirah, but a visit here feels more like a jaunt to Morocco. You’ll be greeted by plants, lanterns aplenty, the soft trickling sound of a fountain, and plenty of natural light – all elements reflecting the fact that Zaaz is inspired by a traditional riad. Here, it’s the ‘Zaaz Hammam Malaki’ you want to start with. Naturally, organic argan oil is the star of this show and features in every step of the hammam, complemented by products from Moroccan beauty brand Izil. Between the cleansing beldi soap, nourishing hair oil, a softening body scrub, a purifying ghassoul body wrap, and even a face mask loaded with green tea and rosewater, this is quite literally top-to-toe pampering. ✤

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For the culture-savvy in Dubai

OCTOBER 2020 EDITION AVAILABLE NOW on issuu.com/factmagazine 38

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ALL EYES ON FIVE FIVE PALM JUMEIRAH IS A DARE-TO-BE-DIFFERENT HOTEL THAT CAPTURES THE GLAMOUR AND VIBE OF DUBAI. SET AGAINST THE BREATHTAKING BACKDROP OF THE BEACH AND DUBAI MARINA SKYLINE, DAVID TAPLEY CHECKS IN TO EXPERIENCE LUXURY ON THE PALM JUMEIRAH.

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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

IVE Palm Jumeirah has carved out quite the reputation since opening three years ago and has immediately cemented itself as one of the must-visit lifestyle hotels in Dubai and it's a destination in its own right. Located on the trunk of the man-made marvel that is Palm Jumeriah, the five-star property is a remarkable glass structure with a facade that is just as striking as the upmarket interiors that lie within. Pulling up at the valet, we cannot help but marvel as the lobby comes into view! A striking glass atrium filled with bowing wooden beams that feel almost forest-like in their intricate placement. These represent one of the many Instagrammable design touches from FIVE's interior designers that have been thoughtfully planned and executed throughout the property. Glimpses of the elongated swimming pool are fleeting as we are led to the check-in desks. Situated in another area characterised by the chic decor, we are wowed by the gold tiling and plush low-slung sofas that make us want to reach for our phones and immediately snap an image captioned #InteriorGoals.

THE LUXE LIFE: This attention to detail and sense of modern beach chic carries effortlessly from the communal spaces and up to our seventh floor Luxe Sea View room. Despite any pre-conceived opinions you may have regarding FIVE Palm Jumeirah, one thing is for sure, and that is the undeniable fact that the rooms are stunning. Bathrooms are tiled in a funky cuboid design that makes us feel as though we are living our best lives inside an abstract painting. A deep eggshaped bath is positioned to encourage long bubble baths, while a separate rainfall shower with golden taps and Rituals amenities completes the luxe picture from which the name of the room category derives. At 38 m2, rooms are generously sized and designed for a luxurious getaway and feature a king-size bed or two queens. Exquisite design elements garner our complete attention, with hexagonal floor tiles bringing a pleasing sense of geometry to a room that is backed in light wood and finished with decadent gold trim. It's a room defined by textures and it's easy to find a sensory comfort in the space, from the overlapping panels on the wardrobes giving the impression of the skin of a mythical dragon, to the interwoven lightwood panels that hang proudly over the headboards. Dangling light fittings and a vibrant turquoise desk provide a pop of colour to the room. Sliding the desk open reveals both the minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. Two elements that add comfort to a haven that already features the modern convenience of a 55" Smart Television and high-speed internet connection. As impressive as the room itself may be, the balconies are the pièce de résistance and provide beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf, Marina and the Dubai Eye. The balcony would be our favoured place to relax, and this is made so much easier thanks to a comfortable day bed, providing us with a great vantage point from which to watch the world go by.

INSTA-FAMOUS FACILITIES: If there has even been a hotel designed for Instagram, then the FIVE Palm Jumeirah is it! Whether it be relaxing beside the palm flanked swimming pool or soaking in one of the in-water loungers, 40

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;˘

the poolside experience is enviable. Living up to its reputation as the epitome of all things cool, the hotel has different swimming pools waiting to be discovered, whether that be in the form of one of the private suites, penthouses, townhouses or the glass-lined pool on the beach. The beach is the ideal place to soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. Set against the backdrop of Dubai Marina, the shoreline offers not only an abundance of loungers and food and beverage options but yet another Instaworthy location - you'd better keep that phone charged! An onsite REFIVE Spa ensures the senses are reinvigorated, and energy levels are rebalanced. There's also a state-of-the-art fitness centre equipped with Techno Gym's Artis range of cardio, strength and functional equipment. So there's no excuse not to get in that daily work out!

FUNKY FOOD AND BEVERAGES: FIVE Palm Jumeirah may have garnered a reputation as a party hotel, but the food and beverage offerings shouldn't be overlooked. The hotel's dining repertoire includes Chinese restaurant Maiden Shanghai, the Mediterranean tapas stylings of Praia and The Penthouse. Another Instagram essential due to the sunset views and exciting mixology. During our stay we dined at the chic and extravagant Cinque, an Italian restaurant whose name translates as 'Five.' It's rather apt, and the appealing pink interiors create a genial warmth that is matched by the front of house team who are knowledgeable and excited when it comes to the menu of re-invented Italian cuisine. The ristorante entices diners with family-style dishes that are inspired by the flavours of Italy's Amalfi Coast and we can't help but embrace the charm of the dining experience. Beginning with Fin de Claire oysters topped with yuzu and lemon

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• STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

sorbet, we truly appreciate the decadence of the meal and the premium ingredients showcased. This notion takes precedence with the arrival of the Gold Burrata which tops the creamy Italian cheese with 22-karat gold and encourages us to take yet another snap for the Gram. We move through course after course of Italian favourites that include Linguine Alla Nerano and Branzino, delightful pan-seared sea bass served with potato lemon purée, artichoke and breadcrumbed green asparagus. If you have room for dessert, ensure you provide 25 minutes notice for the golddusted Nutella Soufflé with vanilla ice cream. It's well worth the wait! A stay at Five Palm Jumeriah is all about showcasing your best life amidst luxurious surroundings, and it's easy to see how the hotel has become an increasingly popular lifestyle destination in its own right. Pack your phone, grab a drink and secure a spot by the pool! ✤

GO: EMAIL FPJD.RESERVATIONS@ FIVEHOTELSANDRESORTS.COM OR CALL (0)4 455 9999 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. 42

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;¢

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IMAGE BY: MIKHAIL KOLESNIKOV

Back in December 2019, when we sat around predicting what travel would look like in 2020, there were a few trends we didn’t see coming – read: the rise of staycations, travel shaming, and lots and lots of armchair travel. Now, with the pandemic not showing any signs of slowing down and the environment reaping the benefits of globetrotters staying put, the energy experts at SaveOnEnergy scoured Instagram to determine the world’s most Instagrammable natural wonders, collecting and analysing how many times each destination was hashtagged. How many have you seen IRL?

PICTURE THIS

• GLOBETROTTER

1. Yosemite National Park, USA Crowned the most picturesque natural wonder in the world, Yosemite National Park has racked up roughly five million hashtags on Instagram – and for good reason. Representing both peace and power, the national park is home to hundreds of square metres of natural wonders ranging from gracious waterfalls and stunning meadows to deep valleys and towering granite monoliths. Not only is Yosemite National Park a popular spot for marriage proposals and the occasional engagement, but it's also one of the few places in America that boasts moonbows. All it takes is a clear sky and a full moon, et voilà – a lunar rainbow is formed.

GLOBETROTTER •

IMAGE BY: ROMAN BABAKIN

IMAGE BY: ANTON FOLTIN

IMAGE BY: YONGYUT KUMSRI

2. Niagara Falls, Canada

3. Grand Canyon, USA

4. Sahara Desert, Africa

Accumulating a whopping 4,607,444 hashtags, Niagara Falls is a close second on this list. Considering the multitude of tourist attractions in the vicinity – arcade games, go-karting, and a butterfly conservatory included – thousands flock to the Canadian landmark to strike a pose in front of this truly majestic waterfall on a daily basis. And while many other falls are 'taller', what makes Niagara Falls so special is its combined height and volume. Over 168,000 cubic metres of water go over the crestline of the falls every minute during peak tourist viewing hours. Oh, and in case you're curious, that’s about a million bathtubs worth of water every second.

Coined as "the one great sight every American should see” by Teddy Roosevelt, it's no surprise that Grand Canyon ranks as the third most Instagrammable natural wonder in the world – and grand it is. At 446 km long and 1,857 meters deep, the canyon is visited by roughly six million tourists annually, so it’s no wonder the warm ombre landscape has been hashtagged more than 4,000,000 times on Instagram to date. Interestingly enough, there's a town located at the base of Grand Canyon: Supai Village. Not only is it inaccessible by road, but it's also the only place where mail is still delivered by pack mule. True story.

The only desert on the list, the Sahara receives the title of the fourth most Instagrammable natural wonder on earth, courtesy of over 2,200,000 Instagram hashtags. Spanning an impressive 8,600,000 square kilometres, the Sahara connects to 11 African countries and comprises a third of the entire continent. It's also still renowned for its eerie silence and breathtaking tranquillity, despite those iconic dunes being home to more than 70 different mammals, Yes, it sizzles in the summer months (temperatures average between 38-46°C), but what few realise is that it's third largest desert behind Antarctica and the Arctic – both of which are cold deserts. fact magazine

• GLOBETROTTER

IMAGE BY: AALTAIR

IMAGE BY: RENE HOLTSLAG

IMAGE BY: NGUYEN QUANG NGOC TONKIN

5. Danube Delta, Romania

6. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

7. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

The Danube Delta in Romania rounds off the top five most Instagrammable natural wonders, accumulating a hefty 1,638,573 hashtags. The second largest of its kind in Europe, this landform is composed from deposited sediment carried by the Danube River into surrounding oceans. Blue and vibrant, the river attracts plenty of tourists, many of whom are there to capture the wildlife that surrounds it – the delta hosts over 300 species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The Danube River also happens to be the most cosmopolitan river on the planet, running through four capitals: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade.

Falling short of the top five, the Galápagos Islands place sixth on this list, with 1,612,457 hashtags from visitors. Based in Ecuador, these fascinating islands are home to plenty of volcanic activity and famously known for their mention in Charles Darwin’s evolution theory. What’s more, the Galápagos Islands straddle the equator. Translation? An equal 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of night throughout the year. While the islands themselves serve as stunning scenery, many of the photos on Instagram highlight their biodiversity. Our research revealed that 97 percent of the islands are deemed a national park, and half of the land species are endemic to the Galapagos.

Crowned as Instagram’s seventh most popular natural wonder, Ha Long Bay in Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province has been hashtagged a remarkable 1,243,473 times. A jaw-dropping collection of majestic caves, emerald waters, and jagged limestone pillars, this UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in the Gulf of Tonkin is an incredibly popular destination for kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, and hiking – yet remains largely unaffected by humans as most of the 1,600 islands here are uninhabited. And while the bay is surprisingly shallow – it's just over 10 metres at its deepest point – nearly 1,000 species of marine life have been recorded swimming in the area.

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GLOBETROTTER â&#x20AC;˘ IMAGE BY: KRISSANAPONG WONGSAWARNG

8. Aurora Borealis, Iceland Better known as the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis in Iceland receives the title of the eighth most Instagrammable natural wonder on earth, racking up 1,167,915 hashtags at present. Named after the Roman goddess of dawn, the Aurora Borealis graces clear night skies with a magnificent light show in the dead of winter. Admittedly, this astronomical phenomenon is unpredictable, but tourists who are fortunate enough to witness it experience a bucket list must. For the uninitiated, the ethereal (usually green) glow of the Northern Lights occurs when electrically charged particles released from the sun enter the earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s atmosphere and collide with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen.

IMAGE BY: DANIEL PRUDEK

9. Mount Everest, China/ Nepal Humans have been obsessed with the idea of conquering Mount Everest since 1921, when the first summit attempt took place, so it's hardly surprising to see it on this list. With 1,125,527 Instagram hashtags overall, the world's tallest mountain is named the ninth most Instagrammable natural wonder in the world. Standing at a commanding elevation of 8,850 metres, Mount Everest is one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth. Eager to capture its handsome heights, visitors frequently take to Instagram to share the spectacular views, but the mountain is not without tragedy. Over 300 climbers have died due to avalanches and altitude sickness, most of them while descending.

IMAGE BY: MURATART

10. Pamukkale, Turkey Narrowly placing in the top 10 with 900,429 hashtags, Pamukkale in Turkey is the tenth most Instagrammed natural wonder in the world, drawing this list to a close. Here, the white travertine cascades resembling frozen waterfalls and terraces of shallow pools are created by the waters of thermal springs reacting with the air. This surreal natural wonder has also earned bragging rights due to the proximity of Hierapolis, an ancient GreekRoman city rife with incredibly well-preserved ruins. Put the two together, and you have a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts almost two million tourists each year. Looking to elevate your Instagram feed post-pandemic? Start here. fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ LOCAL INSIGHT

RAW

CAFFEINATION! David Tapley talks to Matt Toogood, the CEO of Raw Coffee Company about the UAE's evolving coffee culture and the rise of local speciality businesses.

f you've ever been down to Al Quoz, you may have noticed the Raw Coffee Company, a building that stands out on a busy intersection thanks to its colourful murals depicting exotic locations and coffee plantations. Raw Coffee Company is the brainchild of Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood two New Zealander's who have spent the last thirteen years perfecting the art of coffee for consumers in Dubai and the wider GCC region. What started as a small spot in DIP soon moved to Dubai Garden Centre before finally settling in the industrial area of Al Quoz. Achieving a 30 to 50 per cent growth year on year, Raw Coffee Company is about more than just sourcing premium green coffee beans from around the globe. Matt Toogood CEO and Owner tells us how important it is for the company to ensure that all beans are not only ethically sourced but that the farmers growing them for Raw are treated fairly and can make a sustainable living. 48

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With the United Arab Emirates rapidly evolving and progressive coffee culture catching up with the trends and demands seen in the likes New Zealand and London a decade ago, the team at Raw have re-designed their business methods. Inching away from a commercial model and prioritising their niche and specialised market. Raw see themselves as market educators and have introduced not only a fully-fledged cafe with a retail element but a fully equipped training centre where customers can learn everything from barista skills to brewing processes and sensory training. In the beginning, a lot of the processes and knowledge obtained by the hard-working Raw team were safeguarded until they become public domain. This certainly ensured they were ahead of the game, but in becoming market leaders there came a time when Raw began to shout about what they were doing and share their processes. This allowed them to help other cafes set up roasteries

LOCAL INSIGHT â&#x20AC;˘

of their own and develop a whole coffee subculture in Dubai. With the onset of COVID, you might expect the business to have suffered, but Matt explains that this was not the case. During the recent lockdown, the consumers were forced to adapt and cater to an increased desire for cafe-quality coffee at home. Where else would coffee enthusiasts look for their brewing products and coffee, but Raw Coffee Company. Post-lockdown this notion had a knock-on effect, and as people ventured out again, they began to seek out independent local venues that aligned with their newfound attitudes and skillsets. As we sit in the industrial-style venue on a busy Thursday morning, surrounded by the smell of freshly roasted coffee and perched upon chairs made from jute bags, business is clearly booming! When asked about what makes a good cup of coffee Matt explains to us that they have spent many years learning about the products and ensuring that they can offer speciality coffee made from quality products at the same price as you would find in a chain. He informs us that the perfect cup of coffee will ultimately be based upon the preferences of the individual. Customers shouldn't be perturbed or overwhelmed by the experience of ordering a coffee, and it should instead be welcoming. At Raw, not only the staff, but regular customers will help guide peoples choices. As a qualified coffee grader, Matt informs us that you may not yet have been exposed to exactly what it is that you want from a cup of coffee and that people

require the opportunity to experiment and discover. The coffee at Raw Coffee Company is currently sourced from 17 countries, and the growth of the company has ensured that at Raw they can bypass the suppliers and go directly to the source to form not only a business relationship but a bond. Having visited 97% of the farms from which their coffee is sourced, Raw is offering a surety for the farmers and producers. In turn, this provides Raw with the first pick of the crop and the ability to decide how the flavour profile of the coffee is manipulated for the benefit of the end consumer. This process of direct trade with the farmers in origin countries, combined with an ethical trading model, means that Raw work with their farmers for more than one season, using their profit margins to contribute to the process. It's interesting to hear how a farmer's full annual crop can be consumed here in Dubai in a matter of weeks, and this goes to show that consumers are seeking out quality products and are educating themselves on the ethos of a brand such as Raw. With coffee having long been a catalyst for socialisation, and as the first specialist coffee spot in town, Raw Coffee Company should be on your agenda when you're next in need of a caffeine fix. â&#x153;¤

GO: VISIT RAWCOFFEECOMPANY.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN ANTEBELLUM

Highlights

THE DEVIL ALL THE TIME WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

Successful author Veronica Henley finds herself trapped in a horrifying reality and must uncover the mindbending mystery before it's too late.

DIRECTOR: Gerard Bush, Christopher Renz CAST: Janelle Monáe, Jena Malone, Gabourey Sidibe, Tongayi Chirisa, Marque Richardson

WHY IS IT WORTH WATCHING?

To say too much about the narrative trajectory of Antebellum would be unfair, as this is a film that works best if you know little to nothing about the plot. Let's just say that it is a probing examination of slavery anchored around an electrifying performance from singer-turnedactress Janelle Monáe. It's surprising to believe that this is her first lead role in a film, but she does an impressive job as Veronica, a woman coming to terms with a situation that is entirely out of her control. A massive twist at the 40-minute mark pulls the rug out from underneath the viewer, leaving the final act to fill in the gaps of what is a horrifying and brutal tale - and one that seems scarily relevant. From the impressive one-take tracking shot that opens the film and guides the viewer around a cotton plantation in Louisiana to the striking sound design, Antebellum is a technical marvel available to watch now on Amazon Prime.

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“

A massive twist at the f40-minute mark pulls the rug out from underneath the viewer, leaving the final act to fill in the gaps of what is a horrifying and brutal tale." - Antebellum

Sinister characters converge around a young man devoted to protecting those he loves in a postwar backwoods town teeming with corruption and brutality.

DIRECTOR: Antonio Campos CAST: Robert Pattinson, Haley Bennett,

Tom Holland, Bill Skarsgård, Mia Wasikowska

WHY IS IT WORTH WATCHING?

The Devil All the Time is the latest Netflix original to launch on the ever-growing streaming platform and is based on the acclaimed novel of the same name. The film takes its time in telling a sprawling story that involves many characters and timelines over its 138-minute runtime. Despite strong performances from an all-star cast that includes Twilight's Robert Pattinson and Spider-Man's Tom Holland, yet The Devil All the Time is arduous viewing in its unflinching portrait of the effects of war and the evil inside us all. The acting is strong, the cinematography is terrific, and the excellent narration is provided by the author of the original novel, Donald Ray Pollock. Ultimately, The Devil All the Time is an interesting drama that offers a complex examination of how sin and trauma are handed down from generation to generation.

ENTERTAINMENT •

FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

FICTION

When No One Is Watching

HIP-HOP

Detroit II

By Big Sean

2020 has been the year of hip-hop heavyweights with the likes of Nas, Eminem, Drake, Future and Lil’ Wayne all releasing new bodies of work. Big Sean returns to the foray with his fifth studio album and a sequel to his 2012 mixtape, Detroit. The project finds Big Sean at his most confessional, boasting a newfound confidence that permeates through this collection of 21 absolute bangers. Spanning a runtime of over 70 minutes, Detroit II’s most memorable tracks include “ZTFO” and the Travis Scottassisted “Lithuania”, and “Story,” which is cleverly punctuated by interview footage from prominent performers Dave Chapelle and Stevie Wonder. The project sometimes feels more like a mixtape thanks to the raw energy displayed by the charismatic rapper on tracks like “Lucky Me” and “Harder Than My Demons”. Still, Big Sean is at his best when backed by the likes of the late great Nipsey Hussle on the profoundly personal “Deep Reverence” and long-time muse Jhené Aiko on the seductive “Body Language”. Big Sean has returned to the rap game with gusto and, in the process, delivers his best body of work yet!

R&B

Alicia

By Alicia Keys After a four-year hiatus, Alicia Keys is back with her seventh studio album, Alicia. The self-titled offering of 15 tracks marks a departure from the singer’s usual piano-driven ballads. We are sure the global pandemic has something to do with Alicia’s newfound sound and it’s clear from these tracks that, as a songwriter, she is attune to the state of the world we are currently living in. The standout track “Perfect Way To Die” provides intelligent commentary on the black lives matter movement, while the uplifting “Good Job” works as a modern-day anthem against the struggles of our new normal. As a singer Alicia Keys pushes her already impressive vocal range on her latest project, experimenting with the genres of jazz, funk and a touch of reggae on “Wasted Energy”. The guest features are also impressive and include Miguel, Jill Scott, Sampha, Khalid and Snoh Aalegra on vocals and an impressive co-writing credit from Ed Sheeran on lead single, “Underdog”. The latest project from the classically trained pianist s downright personal – and we’d expect nothing less.

By Alyssa Cole Sydney Green is Brooklyn born and raised, but her beloved neighbourhood seems to change every time she blinks. Condos are sprouting like weeds, and the neighbours she’s known her whole life are disappearing. To hold onto her community’s past and present, Sydney channels her frustration into a walking tour and finds an unlikely and unwanted assistant in one of the new arrivals on the block - her neighbour Theo. But Sydney and Theo’s deep dive into history quickly becomes a dizzying descent into paranoia and fear. Rear Window meets Get Out in this gripping thriller from critically acclaimed author, Alyssa Cole.

FICTION

Grown By Tiffany D. Jackson When legendary R&B artist Korey Fields spots Enchanted Jones at an audition, her dreams of being a famous singer take flight - until Enchanted wakes up with blood on her hands and zero memory of the previous night! Before there was a dead body, Enchanted’s dreams had turned into a nightmare because behind Korey’s charm and star power was a controlling dark side. Now, he’s dead and the police are at the door, with all signs pointing to Enchanted. Awardwinning author Tiffany D. Jackson delivers another riveting, ripped-from-the-headlines mystery that exposes horrific secrets hiding behind the limelight and embraces the power of a young woman’s voice. fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ PLUGGED IN

APP-L ICIOUS LET'S SEE WHAT'S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR OC TOBER...

COLOR THERAPY

MEALIME

Color Therapy is the number one digital colouring book for adults. Here, you can join a vibrant social community and colour your way into mindfulness with this application that presents more than 5,000 colouring pages themed around animals, places, objects, art, fashion, food and patterns. Featuring an extensive colour palette alongside calming music, the app allows users to turn their anxieties into beautiful artworks, unleashing their creativity while de-stressing and relaxing. Research shows that mindfulness art therapy can significantly decrease the symptoms of physical and emotional distress, and has also been discovered to reduce signs of depression and anxiety. Color Therapy also features a social element, meaning you can interact with and inspire other users by leaving comments and joining collaborative colouring challenges.

Mealime is a simple way for busy people to plan their meals and eat healthier. The app offers meal plans and recipes that are highly customisable and can easily be personalised to work with your unique tastes and lifestyle. Whether your objective is to eat healthier, reduce stress, lose weight or save money, the app streamlines the cooking experience, meaning you can prepare meals in less than 30 minutes by following simple stepby-step cooking instructions. You can also build a meal plan, and a grocery list of all the ingredients you'll need for the week is automatically created. Better still, all meal plans are intelligently designed to eliminate food waste, where possible, saving you money in the process. Better yet, all Mealime recipes include comprehensive nutrition information so you can easily analyse what you're eating.

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PLUGGED IN •

OH, SNAP!

Finally setting our smartphone cameras aside, FACT reviews the new Nikon Z 5.

eet the new Nikon Z 5, a marvellous piece of kit for budding and professional photographers alike. This a mirrorless camera that bridges the gap between advanced features and affordable pricing with effortless ease, featuring a robust build that feels comfortable in the hand while still carrying a bit of weight. It’s both sleek and compact without compromising on features, and appears to have been purposefully designed with content creators in mind. It’s immediately evident from the moment of unboxing that the Nikon Z 5 is the perfect companion for those looking to move away from their smartphones and up their skillset when it comes to photography and videography. The first thing we notice is how easy it is to calibrate and, despite an abundance of buttons and dials on the rear of the camera body, using it is more accessible than it first appears. If you’ve ever picked up a DSLR before, you are likely to be at ease with the handling and functionality of Z 5. With users looking for more durability when it comes to photography, its standout functionality is obvious, as the camera excels in its capture of sharp details and excellent performance in low light conditions – even when shooting handheld. It’s easy to appreciate the Z mount system that connects with Nikon’s wide selection of high-performance NIKKOR Z lenses. This particular model is boxed with the new NIK-KOR Z 24-50mm f/4-6.3 lens, a portable and lightweight kit lens

and one that is ideal for first-time full-frame users. The lens features a versatile focal length range, meaning it’s perfect for street photography and those who love to travel. Spec-wise, the Nikon Z 5 ticks many boxes and features a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor, 4.5 fps continuous shooting with AF, and a 3.69M-dot OLED viewfinder. The Z 5 isn’t purely about the stills, as the camera has the option of interval-timer photography that allows for the capture of those all-important sunset time-lapses and the opportunity to unleash your inner Steven Spielberg. The camera is both compact and easy to handle while never feeling cumbersome. Navigation is simple thanks to the intuitive touchscreen while shortcuts can be set easily, allowing access to your most-used settings with quick precision. We thoroughly appreciated the double SD memory card slots, meaning we could store plenty more photos and videos before needing to export them. Better yet, not only does the Z 5 offer increased battery capacity, but it can also be charged on the go via USB connectivity. With dust-and-drip resistance, fast-focusing reaction, and expressive imaging performance, the Nikon Z 5 is a viable option for those looking to venture beyond smartphone photography. It is, undoubtedly, the best entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera available on the market circa now. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.NIKON-MEA FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

@Hadag_Me 54

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http: //Issuu.com/hadag

CITY RIDES •

THE FIRST-EVER

BMW 2 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ THIS BRAND-NEW BMW OFFERS A LUXURIOUS EXPERIENCE AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE.

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• CITY RIDES

ho doesn’t love a brand-new BMW? We at Fact Magazine have had the privilege of test driving an array of BMW models over the years and are yet to be disappointed by any of their designs. This month we were offered the opportunity to put the first-ever BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé 218i through its paces. Needless to say, we jumped at the opportunity and soon found ourselves thoroughly inspecting this impressive vehicle. The appearance of the front end of the Gran Coupé is highly aggressive in nature, highlighted by the three-dimensional mesh design of the kidney grilles featuring a horizontal finish instead of the classic vertical design. The lines running across the bonnet cannot be fully appreciated in pictures and need to be viewed in person for one to truly recognise the beauty of its construction. The slightly angled LED headlights have been superbly sculptured whilst the gloss black finish of the splitter and front air intakes all add a further touch of class. The elegant yet powerful presence of this 2 Series Gran Coupé flows from the front to the flanks in a seamless fashion, revealing a crisp and clean side profile. The alloy wheels are available up to 19-inches in size, whilst the four frameless doors accentuate the premium feel of the vehicle. At the back end, the sporty nature of this car is emphasised by its rear lip spoiler and twintailpipe exhaust system. The upturned L-shape of the LED taillights guarantee a striking presence on the roads at night, whilst the gloss black touches provide a first-class finish. The superb quality exhibited by the exterior of this 2 Series continues in the interior, with high-end materials having been used throughout. All of the trimmings and finishes are firstclass, complimented by the soft, ambient lighting. The front seats are heated, comfortable and supportive, giving the driver a sense of control over the vehicle. The layout of the cockpit is functional with all controls and features precisely where you would want them to be. In the back, there is plenty of head and legroom on offer as well as natural lighting thanks to the large windows. A panoramic sunroof is an optional extra that further adds to the already well-lit interior. The rear doors may be on the smaller side; however, the openings have been perfectly designed, ensuring easy, unobstructed movement in and out of the vehicle. There is ample storage space to be found throughout this Gran Coupé, including the 430-litre capacity boot. This area can be increased substantially in size by folding down the rear seats. This can be done through the use of easy to reach levers in the boot itself. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is part of the operating concept of this new 2 Series, which we found to be exceptionally functional and helpful. This system includes a digital character who is a fully-fledged BMW expert who can offer assistance to the driver. He can learn your habits and routines and subsequently apply them in the appropriate context. He can even provide casual conversation, throwing in the occasional joke or relevant stories. Other features include a BMW Head-up Display and Apple CarPlay preparation amongst many others. Once out on the tarmac, we were instantly impressed by the

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three-cylinder petrol engine that powers the 218i. This beauty of an engine produces 140 hp, allowing the vehicle to surge from 0–100 km/h in 8.7 seconds. The power of this engine, combined with the manual gearbox allows the driver to feel fully engaged with the vehicle. Complete with an excellent braking system and top-notch traction control, we always felt in charge of the driving experience, even around the tightest of bends. It is evident that the master designers at BMW had people’s safety at the forefront of their minds when designing this vehicle. A multitude of safety features are fitted as standard, including airbags, the Lane Departure Warning system with active lane return, collision and pedestrian warning as well as city braking function. Active Cruise Control, Lane Change Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Crossing Traffic Warning and Innovative Reversing Assistant are all available as optional extras. We can highly recommend the first-ever BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé to anyone in the market for an attractive, highperformance, functional and comfortable vehicle. ✤

CITY RIDES â&#x20AC;¢

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• CITY RIDES

“

THE ELEGANT YET POWERFUL PRESENCE OF THIS 2 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ FLOWS FROM THE FRONT TO THE FLANKS IN A SEAMLESS FASHION, REVEALING A CRISP AND CLEAN SIDE PROFILE.”

CALL BMW AGMC ON 800-2462 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN. 58

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THIS IS 50

This season, Paul Smith is celebration central as the eccentric British label celebrates its 50th anniversary through a collection rife with â&#x20AC;&#x153;blue-sky positivityâ&#x20AC;?. fact magazine

• FASHION FOCUS

omewhere between his eclectic inspirations, refusal to conform, and signature multicoloured stripes, 74-year-old designer Paul Smith screams success. Both the man and the brand have come to represent quintessentially British style, incorporating classics with a touch of whimsy for a whopping 50 years. And it's in celebration of this milestone that key prints and shapes from the archive have been revisited and reinterpreted for AW20. Tailored garments remain at the centre of the collection, but with an ease that’s at the heart of Paul Smith, while a clean and lean silhouette nods to the 70s with added length, high-breaks, and a minimal feel. Both fabric and detailing are front and center – double-breasted Melton overcoats are finished with contrast topstitching and raw edges, check and houndstooth tailoring is cut from cloths that are British in style but Italian in fluidity. And when it comes to the colour palette, natural tones reign supreme, with the likes of teal, terracotta, and clay complementing a bright blue sky. Heavy jumbo corduroy, in the key colour of sky blue, injects the collection with a cloud-like bounce.

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FASHION FOCUS •

On a similar theme, proportions are exaggerated in puffer jackets and trainers to create an air of dreamlike fantasy. For the uninitiated, denim is a regular feature of many Paul Smith catwalk collections, now appearing raw and traditional or overdyed and modern with a unique floral camouflage pattern. Thick shearling coats, meanwhile, look to the designer's dandyish pals wearing their grandmas’ fur coats in the 70s. But no Paul Smith anniversary collection would be complete without the spaghetti print, which originated when a wax plate of spaghetti from a fake food shop made its way into a photographic print in Tokyo. Today, it has been scaled up, recoloured, and woven in textural wool jumpers and printed on floor-length down jackets. Another archive print comes courtesy of a faulty fax machine – a warped Paul Smith logo – which has been reproduced on shirts and jersey pieces, taking on a newfound irreverence in 2020. After all, logomania as a sartorial trend shows no signs of slowing down. And luckily for those who prefer fashion with a side of quirk, neither is Paul Smith. ✤

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â&#x20AC;¢ FASHION FOCUS

RUNWAY REPORT Highlights from the Paul Smith Autumn/Winter 2020 catwalk:

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BRAND FOCUS •

BOOHOOMAN X SWAE LEE Rae Sremmurd star Swae Lee teams up with global online retailer boohooMAN to launch his first-ever tracksuit collection. Following the enormous demand for the Rae Sremmurd x boohooMAN collaboration in 2017, global menswear online retailer boohooMAN has announced the highly anticipated limited-edition tracksuit edit with Inglewood-born hip-hop songwriter, producer and Grammynominated rapper, Swae Lee. boohooMAN and Rae Sremmurd member Swae Lee have crafted the ultimate streetwear tracksuit collection, showcasing graphics in fresh fun colourways, inspired by Swae Lee’s iconic sporty flair style. The tracksuit drop includes everything from must-have matching sets to mix and match full looks, plus bold and pastel sweat sets. Swae Lee’s versatile tracksuit edit sets itself apart with a variety of unique graphics and prints, including x-ray-like tie-dye skeletal accents. The collection ranges in style from bold colour block short tracksuits to 90’s throwback funnel neck velour sets. The multifunctional short tracksuit sets are lightweight, breathable and essential for keeping cool during the summer months. The collection contains a total of 76 items including ready-to-wear and accessories, with selected lines in sizes XS-XL. ✤

GO: VISIT BOOHOOMAN.COM FOR MORE DETAILS. fact magazine

• BRAND FOCUS

LIKE A BOSS THIS FALL/WINTER

SEASON, BOSS BUILDS ON ITS PARTNERSHIP WITH BOXER ANTHONY JOSHUA TO LAUNCH AN EXCLUSIVE, CO-CREATED CAPSULE COLLECTION OF EASY-WEAR PIECES. INTRODUCING BOSS X AJBXNG…

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BRAND FOCUS •

resented in an elevated shade of midnight with highlights of gold, the BOSS x AJBXNG capsule collection presents ten pieces in a seamless combination of the brand’s signature elegance and Joshua’s desire to include “the colour that represents a win.” T-shirts, sweatshirts, jersey pants, knits, and a hooded jacket make up the capsule, each featuring a curved interpretation of the iconic BOSS logo in gold, either as a signature detail or in oversized form across the chest or upper back. The T-shirts and sweatshirts are offered in a comfortable, relaxed fit, while the knitwear pieces and jersey pants are cut closer to the body to create a streamlined silhouette. Every piece includes a woven label featuring motivational words from the boxer: “One more hour, one more day. Never let success get to your head or failure to your heart.” “The subtlety is what I like about BOSS,” Joshua says in a statement when asked about co-creating his first fashion collection with BOSS. “The navy and the gold, I think it’s a great combination. It’s deep, it’s rich, and the navy gives it an elegant feel.” While this collaboration marks the first time Joshua has designed a collection with BOSS, the British professional boxer and twotime unified heavyweight champion has a close relationship with the brand, since fronting the Boss Stretch Tailoring campaign in 2018. He also has his own label, AJBXNG. One thing’s for sure. This collaboration between sportsman and luxury fashion house is the ideal transitional collection. ✤

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

• FOR HER

NEW & Beauty wishlists at the ready.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! Say the words "pillow talk" and we're instantly intrigued, all thanks to Charlotte Tilbury of course. Not only has Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes! made lash curlers obsolete, but it also boasts just about everything we want from an everyday mascara – think: instant length, weightless volume, and a 24-hour vertical lift effect. Not only is the formula keratin-infused for healthier looking lashes, but the diamond-shaped bristles also follow your unique "lash architecture" to paint every single lash... yes, even those little ones. No wonder this was 27 years in the making!

Dolce&Gabbana Beauty Solar Glow Collection So you couldn't make it to Italy this summer, but what about attaining that elusive Mediterranean glow? Enter: the latest additions to Dolce&Gabbana's sun-drenched Solar Glow collection, where the Italian label's iconic patterns and customisable shades converge. The existing bronzing products now stand alongside the Solar Glow Universal Illuminating Drops (a water-based gel formula in a universal shade) and Illuminating Powder Duo (a light, blendable texture that won't cake up). Not only do they add a touch of radiance, but they've also been enriched with Dolce&Gabbana Beauty’s Mediterranean Glow Complex to help hydrate and soften the skin. Just think of them as must-haves in the world of skincare-makeup hybrids.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle L'Eau Privée When news broke that famed perfumer Olivier Polge was designing a scent intended for the night, we knew our bedtime routines will never be the same again. After all, the new Coco Mademoiselle L'Eau Privée is not intended for nights out – it's designed to be sprayed “as generously on the skin as on the hair or a negligée" before bed. A softer version of its oriental predecessor, the fragrance is composed around a delicate accord of jasmine absolute and rose petal notes, exalting the most sensual musk notes of Coco Mademoiselle.

La Prairie Skin Caviar Liquid Lift Leave it to La Prairie to enhance what has long been a beauty icon: Skin Caviar Liquid Lift. First introduced by the luxe Swiss brand back in 2012, the gravity-defying serum was conceived as a tribute to the iconic caviar beads of the Skin Caviar Collection. Now, La Prairie has reimagined it by merging its two most potent caviar ingredients for the first time: Caviar Premier and Caviar Absolute. The former makes for an unparalleled lifted appearance while the latter lends to a visually regained volume, both coming together in a fusion of potency to create a gravity-defying serum like no other.

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Pure Musc EDP Absolue Meet a special limited-edition take on the For Her Pure Musc eau de parfum that celebrates a woman’s inner beauty and innate sensuality. But let's backtrack. Over 15 years ago, designer Narciso Rodriguez had a bold dream for his first fragrance: create a luminous floral bouquet from a rare musc accord. His dream manifested a masterful blend of his signature heart of musc with floral, amber, and woody facets, now a modern classic known for its uniquely addictive qualities. This one's for you, olfactory fanatics.

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N O W

FOR HIM •

Fragrance, grooming, skincare – check! Izil Argan Beard Oil The month brings another all-natural launch, courtesy of Izil. And because the brand draws inspiration from Morocco, where founder Mouna Abassy hails from, the new Argan Beard Oil is cruelty-free, alcohol-free, devoid of artificial colours and fragrances, and entirely free of synthetic chemicals. What this means for you is a non-greasy, fast-absorbing oil that will soften, strengthen, and nourish even the most dehydrated beard. And considering it's formulated with argan, black seed, jojoba, and laurel leaf essential oils, we'd expect nothing less.

Dolce&Gabbana Beauty K by Dolce&Gabbana EDP 2019 saw the introduction of K by Dolce&Gabbana,

Aesop

a captivating fragrance that tells the story of a seductive, generous, and charismatic man – the king

Citrus Melange Body Cleanser

of his everyday life, if you will. Now, Dolce&Gabbana

Gentle, suited to all skin types,

K by Dolce&Gabbana Eau de Parfum, a new scent that

packaged in recycled PET

offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of a modern

bottles, and distinctly Aesop in

king. Building on the legacy of the eau de toilette, the

its depth of aroma, this one's a

intense new addition is inspired by the earthy and

no-brainer. True to its name, the

rugged landscape of Tuscany – hence a new spiciness,

Louis Vuitton

Citrus Melange Body Cleanser's

a more sensual heart, and a stronger woody base.

Météore

Beauty is revealing new facets of his personality with

scent is light and refreshing –

Continuing on its quest for domination in the realm of

always a plus in our relentlessly

men's fragrances, Louis Vuitton launches Météore, a

humid climate – making the the

captivating perfume inspired by a natural phenomenon

purifying blend of essential oils

that has long dazzled humanity. Naturally, the pressure

(petitgrain, jasmine, lemon rind,

was on to design a composition that contains intense

and grapefruit rind) an added

luminosity. The likes of Calabrian bergamot and

bonus. Questioning that bar of

Sicilian orange burst forth and, pierced by a ray of

soap yet?

light, project a cascade of sun-drenched notes. At the perfume's heart is radiant Tunisian neroli, followed by spices aplenty to enhance its depth: a trio of peppers, Guatemalan cardamom, and Indonesian nutmeg. Java vetiver was selected as the finishing touch, an

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor

essence ingeniously stripped of its smokiest notes to exhale facets that are simultaneously fresh, earthy, and ambery.

Rihanna can do no wrong. There. Now that we've gotten that out of the way, here's a little something about her skincare line, Fenty Skin. Effective, unisex, and refreshingly uncomplicated, this is a series of multitasking products that promise healthy, glowing skin through just a few simple steps – regardless of the skin type. We swear by the ultra-light Hydra Vizor that simultaneously hydrates and offers invisible sun protection clocking in at SPF30. And while it's doing all that, this nifty hybrid will also brighten your skin while reducing the look of pores. Win-win. fact magazine

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NEW IN TOWN •

NEVER FAR FROM THE SUSHI BAR We’ve got 99 problems, but sushi’s not one! David Tapley visits the newly opened 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant at The Address Downtown Dubai for an evening of Japanese haute cuisine. fact magazine

• NEW IN TOWN

hree years since rolling into Abu Dhabi with its upmarket Japanese cuisine, 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant has now thrown open its doors in the heart of Downtown Dubai. The Japanese restaurant has quickly become synonymous with its menu of haute cuisine, premium ingredients, exciting mixology and those oh so beautiful interiors. While the capital may have the waterfront views of Al Maryah Island, 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant in Dubai is situated at the Address Downtown Hotel, boasting a terrace that overlooks the world’s tallest building - the Burj Khalifa. Talk about dinner with a view! The striking interiors with luxurious black and gold tones that impressed in the capital have been replicated with gusto and precision for diners in Dubai. Typical of 99 Sushi design, the venue has seating for 99 guests, with additional capacity in the lounge and upon the expansive outdoor terrace, which offers a front-row seat to the spectacular Dubai Fountains. In expected 99 Sushi fashion, gold can be found everywhere! Neither the walls, menus, chopstick holders or the food are spared the touch of this precious metal. Yet the gold thematic works rather well, successfully managing to stay on the right side of gaudy and instilling the space with a sense of sophisticated elegance. A verdant living wall behind the sushi counter provides a nice transition from sea to land, replicating the journey of the fresh seafood that is artfully displayed upon a bed of glistening ice. The secret of the Japanese cuisine at 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant revolves around the use of premium ingredients and the à la minute preparation of dishes as a means to ensure the utmost freshness. The Dubai menu has been transplanted from the capital and features all of the expected signatures plus several exciting new additions. We are in awe of the 99 Katsu Sando which embellishes what is essentially a Wagyu beef sandwich with gold leaf and the resulting dish is as striking in presentation as it is in taste. This is thanks to the Wagyu with its grade 9 marbling and a hint of mustard and black pepper. Elsewhere, we find ourselves returning to tried and tested favourites such as the lobster maki with wakame, cucumber and yuzu, which is beautifully rolled and generously portioned. It’s impressive to see how the consistency regarding both flavour and presentation has been maintained across the two UAE locations of 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant, thanks to the deft touch of Executive Chef Rubén Simón. We gleefully work our way through the luxurious King Crab Au Gratin. A crab leg stuffed with wasabi, tobiko and yuzu mayonnaise that feels both luxurious and fresh on the palate. In comparison, the aptly named Golden Bricks present six warm nigiri constructed from tuna tartar, avocado, tobiko and gold leaf. As decadent as the golden surroundings, this dish acts as a testament to the innovation on display and elevates the dining experience above the expected sushi choices you’ll find in Dubai. For our main courses, we select a proven favourite in the form of the 99 Black Cod. 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant’s take on a dish that has become an obligatory inclusion on Japanese menus

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across region provides a wonderfully sweet lacquered exterior and a succulent almost velvety texture. We also try something new are are blown away by the Slow Cooked Short Ribs Ako Miso, a gargantuan portion of beef that boasts a beautiful flavour due to its slow cooking time of twenty hours! Served on a bed of roasted eggplant, we can’t believe it’s taken us so many years of dining at 99 Sushi and Restaurant Bar to discover this gem. With only four desserts on offer including Chocolate Fondant and 99 Yuzu Cheesecake, we find ourselves once again drawn to the charms of the simple mochi, particularly the green tea and passion fruit iterations which provide the perfect balance of consistency and flavour. 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant as a concept may derive from Spain (99 Sushi has three branches in Madrid, one in Barcelona and one in Bilbao) where one of the restaurants was recently awarded the coveted Michelin Star, but the cuisine is solely Japanese. Although ‘haute cuisine’ appears to be the current terminology for anything new and vaguely different, here it

NEW IN TOWN â&#x20AC;˘

represents an accurate moniker for a niche cuisine that seems to have resonated well with diners. As a new concept for Dubai, 99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant makes a bold impression and is set to become an essential addition to the dining options in Downtown. Perfectly slotting into a highend niche, this is a venue that secretes a luxury feel from the food to the very fabric of the building. Get your reservations in now! â&#x153;¤

GO: CALL (0)4 547 2241 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT â&#x20AC;¢

STEP INTO THE ORIENT David Tapley heads to Asil at Rixos Premium Dubai for a taste of the Orient at the newly opened Asil. fact magazine

• CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

ubai has no shortage of Middle Eastern restaurants, but there’s a new spot in town that is looking to change diners perceptions when it comes to gorging on your favourite Lebanese, Turkish and Moroccan specialities. The newly opened Asil at Rixos Premium Dubai presents a multifaceted venue that combines a restaurant, lounge, stage and terrace with effortless ease. Situated just off the hotel lobby, Asil boasts charm and captivating warmth before we even cross the threshold. An intricate and elegant combination of textiles and lighting help to create an atmosphere that feels both inviting and exotic as we enter into an Aladdin’s cave of vibrant colours and charming service. Seated at a circular booth upholstered in deep red, we can’t help but be impressed by the decor and layout of the restaurant which has utilised the space remarkably well. A central bar gives way to a raised lounge area where a DJ spins a creative mixture of Arabic music interwoven with R&B classics. Off to the rear of the restaurant lies more intimate seating areas and there’s even the option of henna artistry for female guests. In a fast-paced city where everything is vying for the attention of visitors and residents, Asil has done a remarkable job of blending food, music and entertainment into one seamless experience. As we admire the plush hanging textiles and the coloured Arabic lanterns swinging overhead, we begin our culinary journey through the Middle East and North Africa, fusing Arabesque cuisine via an exciting blend of Turkish, Lebanese and Moroccan 74

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tastes. Much like the venue itself the cuisine at Asil blends the traditional with a modern approach and guests can expect an offering that showcases authentic flavours alongside a creative and contemporary twist. Asil’s intricate menu is designed with sharing in mind and dishes are served to the table family-style, providing diners with the opportunity to try a little bit of everything and get a true feel for the Asil experience. The mezze selection combines interesting choices such as the cheese melon, with classics such as hommous and moutabel. While these are undoubtedly pivotal dishes, we found ourselves drawn to the köpoğlu, a plate of fried aubergine cubes, buffalo yoghurt, garlic and a beautiful candied tomato jam. The highlight of the entire meal however, transpired to be the visneli yaprak sarma, a twist of the traditional rice stuffed vine leaves which incorporates sour cherries, caramelised onions and pine nuts into a dish of moreish marvel. We bypass the salads, soups and raw sections of the menu, knowing that we will likely be full by the end of the meal, but somehow we can’t help but order a selection of hot appetisers. Fiery potato cubes known as battata harra are a definite winner on our table, as are the cheese briouat parcels which cleverly stuff four kinds of cheese into filo pastry before being deep fried. Main courses comprise of items from the sea, from the grill and a collection of Oriental Signatures. Under the guise of research, we order one dish from each section and are pleasantly surprised by not only generous portion sizes but the presentation of the dishes. The pan-fried kadayif seabass covers a beautifully

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

seasoned piece of fish with kadayif noodles that help provide a crunchy texture in contrast to the accompanying watercress and simple cherry tomato salad. Asil’s chicken tagine offers comfort food with a twist, and the tender braised chicken is complemented by saffron potatoes, preserved lemon and olives to the point that the tagine was literally licked clean. Those expecting grills and kebabs will be delighted by the ten options available, and although the mixed grill tempted us, we were persuaded to try the popular Asil kebab and couldn’t have been happier. The hand-chopped lamb mixed with pastirma and rolled with pistachio rolled lamb tenderloin was a meat lovers dream and one that presented robust flavours along with some surprise tableside theatrics. We move to Asil’s spacious terrace for dessert and are happy with the low-slung couches and the nighttime views over the Rixos Premium Dubai's elegant swimming pool and out to the Dubai Eye. The stunning scenery was soon overshadowed by the arrival of dessert, which stole our attention away from the landscape. The Asil full treats presented a platter of fruit, and three signature desserts upon a bed of ice that was embellished with a smoking lamp. The combination of semolina helva, havuc baklava and Turkish kunefe quickly makes up for the fact that no genie appears from the golden treasure to grant us three wishes. The trio of desserts is rewarding enough. Asil, which means ‘noble’ in Turkish, is a restaurant that certainly lives up to the name. Characterised by colourful homely interiors, efficient service and an interactive dining experience, the venue does an admirable job of transitioning between restaurant and nightlife space. Definitley one for the JBR dining bucket list next time you’re looking for something a little different. ✤

GO: EMAIL DINE@ASILRESTAURANT.COM OR CALL (0)4 520 0055 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FOODIE CORNER •

SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT!

As one of the only restaurants to open during the height of the global pandemic, David Tapley visits Kushi by Reif to see if it's as good as the constant queue of customers would lead you to believe… fact magazine

â&#x20AC;˘ FOODIE CORNER

iving through a global pandemic has resulted in a change of dining habits for many of us. Evenings spent dining out at restaurants were soon replaced with take away dinners in front of the television. Yet, our penchant for quality food and the need to feel that we were getting value for money remained a priority. Battling against the odds, homegrown chef Reif Othman opened a new restaurant during the height of the pandemic and was one of just a handful to do so. Kushi by Reif, a casual dining concept that specialises in street food opened in May, initially as little more than a dessert and chirashi counter. With things slowly returning to some normalcy, Kushi has now turned into a fully-fledged restaurant space that is drawing the crowds to Palm Jumeirah. Situated in the new Nakheel Mall on the trunk of the man-made Palm, Kushi by Reif is perfectly suited to its location in Depachika Food Hall, a gourmet food paradise named after the dedicated food halls that sit beneath Tokyo's department stores. Depachika brings something new to a city that seemingly has everything, and we're immediately reminded of similar concepts that lie in the likes of Harrod's and Selfridges in London. Speciality coffee roasters, cheese rooms, and shelves laden with Arabic sweets are all triumphantly displayed across shiny glass counters and towering tiered displays. Still, there is a significant buzz and a clamour of people surrounding one particular venue - welcome to Kushi by Reif! Much like Reith Othman's other Dubai restaurant, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, visitors know exactly what to expect and also, to expect to queue for their fix of Japanese comfort food. Kushi is smaller than it's predecessor but no less charming and despite the food hall location, the competent team make us feel immediately welcome. As we take a seat near the open kitchen, we can't help but admire the camaraderie of the chefs who work tirelessly to create picture-perfect gyoza and steaming bowls of ramen for the throngs of people waiting in line. Followers of chef Reif will likely recognise some familiar dishes from his other ventures, yet there's still plenty of new things to entice even the most dedicated of repeat guests. The concise menu of casual street food is broken down into seven sections - Sandos, ramen, donburi, Reif fries, gyoza, Kushi, and those allimportant cakes. Beginning with the Chicken Katsu Sando, a dish that has seemingly appeared on every Dubai menu overnight, we're still impressed by the precision and flavour profile achieved by Rothman and his team. Crisp deep-fried marinated chicken breast with plenty of seasoning is layered between a light and fluffy milk bread that is quite literally to die for. Whether you opt for the chicken, Wagyu or soft shell crab iteration of the dish, we believe it will be enough to convert you to the cult of Reif (if you aren't already). Ramen is a tricky dish to perfect, and with four versions on the menu at Kushi, we are torn between the 18hrs Ramen and the 72hrs Ribs Ramen. Both feature a deep and flavourful broth that is further enhanced and complemented by the tender proteins that float within. Ramen has become a staple comfort food for

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many of us, and even more so during the recent lockdown. While many places throughout the city disappoint in their offerings, Kushi's ramen is an easy contender for one of the best in town. Donburi bowls and a first for Reif, French fries, are new dishes that have been purposefully conceptualised for Kushi by Reif and feed perfectly into the food hall surroundings to provide a quick bite that satisfies both time and flavour requirements. The Gyu Don featured thin slices of lightly seared Angus beef, upon a Japanese rice bowl and adorned with a runny onsen egg. This is perhaps our favourite menu item due to the onsen tamago, the low temperature slow-cooked egg that brings a silken almost velvety texture to the dish. Desserts have been a core focus of Kushi since its inception and introduce Reif's signature Japanese spin on classic desserts. Expect prominent Asian flavours in the likes of the Goma (sesame) cheesecake, matcha rolls, yuzu ĂŠclairs and tiramisu boba. Each of the ten desserts offered are not only visually striking but bursting with unique flavour profiles from ingredients that many of us may not be accustomed to.

FOODIE CORNER â&#x20AC;˘

The 3C Chilli Chocolate Cake brings a fiery warmth to a decadent chocolate cake and makes for a perfect pairing of ingridients, yet it's the intrigue of the Banana Passion that had us enamoured. Visually the dessert appears as a lone banana, vibrant in its yellow colouration but still containing the brown blemishes expected from the tropical fruit. Take a fork to it and you'll soon realise that what appears to be banana skin is a chocolate shell, encasing a banana cream, passion fruit curd and Japanese granola with pecan caramel. This particular dessert leaves a lasting impression, much like the overall experience of dining at one of Reif's concepts. Service is casual but effortless as the team flit from the open kitchen to the tabletops with ease and friendly demeanour. Chef Reif himself is often on hand to greet guests, welcoming them into his restaurant like old friends and striking up effortless banter that adds excitement and inclusivity to this in-demand dining experience. Kushi by Reif may be fast and casual but feeds into a market that has often been overlooked in Dubai. The result is a concept that bridges the gap in its approach to dining by offering premium ingredients at affordable prices. If it's street food and a sense of comfort that you're after, then Kushi by Reif is well worth a visit and if you're still not quite ready to venture outside, fear not, for the entire menu is also available for home delivery via Deliveroo. â&#x153;¤

GO: CALL (0)50 423 1885 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• MATTER OF FACT

What We’re (Still) Talking About Apple iPhone 12

Ellen DeGeneres

Harry and Meghan

The new Apple iPhone 12 range is expected to release in mid-October, but after all the hearsay at this point, who can tell? Initially, industry insiders and tech nerds alike expected the phones to make an appearance at the brand's cryptically named Time Flies event, but they were a no-show. Instead, it offered insights into what is to come in the future – updates to the Apple Watch 6, Apple Watch SE, and iPad Air included. However,

The pandemic brought it with at-home hair dye disasters, an obsession with baking, and revelations about Ellen DeGeneres that no one saw coming. Once universally adored, the comedian found herself in the spotlight, but for all the wrong reasons. First, she faced backlash for comparing self-quarantine in her multimillion-dollar mansion to jail, and to say her joke fell flat is an understatement. But that was the least of her worries. Soon after, reports emerged about what Ellen

Love 'em or love to loathe 'em, one thing's for sure: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle always manage to make headlines. Soon after the release of tell-all biography Finding Freedom came the news that the two have signed a multi-year contract with Netflix rumored to be worth between – wait for it – $100 and $150 million. CEO and co-founder Reed Hastings has since revealed that the former royals were "smart" about how they handled the situation, shopping it around across all

somewhere between dubious leaks and legitimate reports, it appears that we might be in for a little disappointment. Rumours suggest that there will be four models in total, but what has confounded many is Apple’s decision to downgrade the battery capacities, despite them being equipped with 5G modems. Oh, and while the exact names in the line-up are yet to be revealed – Apple's obsession with secrecy is notorious, after all – there's talk of iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Max, and even iPhone 12 Pro Max. Phew.

is like as a boss behind the scenes, with crew members from The Ellen DeGeneres Show revealing shocking details about a toxic working environment – racism, intimidation, and unfair dismissal included. And after five months of bad publicity, she returned for the 18th season of her talk show, addressing the scandal during an opening monologue rife with humour. Ellen did issue an apology, but critics and former employees were quick to take to social media, expressing their resentment over how she made light of their trauma for the sake of her reputation.

the major companies before inking the deal – and says the partnership will make for "epic entertainment". Unsurprisingly, Reed went on to predict that the duo will produce the “most viewed content” on the streaming service next year. Harry may be new to the world of showbiz (he’s reportedly taking movie-making courses as we speak), but Meghan's Hollywood ambitions are well-documented. According to Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, authors of Finding Freedom, the duchess has long looked up to how Angelina Jolie combines acting with activism.

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CITY INSIDER

Vijai Singh General Manager, InterContinental Fujairah Resort

Tell us more about your day-to-day role and what keeps it challenging and exciting? Situated in Fujairah, the only Emirate on the East Coast of the UAE brings with it unique advantages and opportunities. My team and I thrive every day on the mission to promote more than just the newest five-star property on Al Aqah beach but also a thrilling destination with stunning natural beauty. From sunbathing to scuba diving, there's something for everyone here and not to forget, a tad cooler climes than in Dubai.

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What are some of your favourite cultural hotspots in Fujairah and why? Fujairah's many cultural gems include the UAE's oldest mosque (Bidyah Mosque) and fort (Fujairah Fort) and the Al-Ain Madhab Hot Springs with pure mineral spring water. During public holidays, you'll enjoy traditional dance and music shows and an outdoor theatre. Another fun fact: Portuguese settlers introduced traditional Bull-butting contests to Fujairah residents back in the 16th century. Head on over to Fujairah Corniche every Friday at 4pm to see the action for yourself.

Please share with us some of your professional goals for the rest of the year. As we close on 2020, my mission at the helm is to continue to drive my team on the path of delivering exceptional and heartfelt stays and culinary experiences in the context of health, hygiene and distancing. We strive to remain the preferred UAE resort for staycations, whilst fulfilling the commitment to our owners to engender a profit at the end of an unprecedented year unlike any other.

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