DXB City Expert - January'19

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TOURS Let those in the know showcase their city

FOOD

Fine dining, local flavours and the best brunches

SHOPS

ACTIVITIES

From the ambient Soak up the bazaars to the winter sun in the shiny mega malls great outdoors

NIGHTLIFE

Jump to the beat at these lively venues

JANUARY 2019

YOUR GUIDE TO DUBAI’S MUST-HAVE VISITOR EXPERIENCES

Spoil your palate at Vault and savour a dozen of delicious oysters with your friends. Enjoy them paired with a bottle of Belaire Rare Rosé or Belaire Luxe Blanc de Blancs while taking in the panoramic views of Dubai’s breathtaking skyline.

AED 550 for a dozen of oysters and a selected bottle of bubbly Wednesday – Sunday from 8pm until late.

For inquiries call +971 4 414 3000 or WhatsApp

+971 56 655 2459

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 414 0000 | jwmmrr@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JW Marriott Marquis Dubai JWDubaiMarquis vaultdubai

WELCOME NOTE

WELCOME TO DUBAI Editorial Editorial Director John Thatcher

W

e know it can feel a little overwhelming when you first set foot in Dubai. How exactly do you explore this ultra-modern metropolis? Where do you start? We love Dubai and we want to ensure that you feel the same, which is why we decided to create this handy-sized, helpful guide to ease you on your way.

Managing Editor Faye Bartle

Rather than present you with a long list of recommendations that would take you the duration of your holiday to read, our Dubai-based team of in-the-know writers has cherry-picked the city’s best bits, leaving you free to simply enjoy it. From the best restaurants with views to write home about to the boutiques brimming with homegrown designs, the coolest clubs and topnotch family entertainment – it's all inside these pages. We’ll also tell you which of the many organised tours are the best to take to see the city’s ample attractions. All you need to do is enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.

Content Writer Habiba Azab Art Art Director Kerri Bennett Senior Designer Hiral Kapadia Commercial Managing Director Victoria Thatcher General Manager David Wade

John Thatcher Editorial Director DXB City Expert Dubai Design District

Commercial Director Rawan Chehab Senior Advertising Manager Mia Cachero

Cover image: The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

Production Production Manager Muthu Kumar

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A NEW WATERFRONT DESTINATION AT PALM JUMEIRAH

The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah.

The Pointe is a vibrant new waterfront destination located at the tip of Palm Jumeirah with scenic views of Atlantis The Palm. Spend the day with family and friends strolling along the promenade, satisfying your taste buds with cuisine from across the world, watching the latest big-screen blockbusters or simply relaxing, unwinding and pampering yourself. Visit The Pointe and indulge in a unique experience.

@thepointepalm | www.thepointe.ae

CONTENTS

THE CONTENTS Discover the noble art of falconry

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The experts are on hand to help you discover the best bits of Dubai and beyond

Underwater, on the water, on the sand and in the snow: the ways to explore Dubai

SO THIS IS DUBAI

THE TOURS

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Before you embark on the holiday of a lifetime, take this quick history lesson

ON ARRIVAL

THE FOOD

All you need to know when you From fine dining to homegrown touch down in Dubai, with top cafés and the very best places tips on getting around to indulge in brunch

THE ACTIVITIES

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THE NIGHTLIFE

From hip hangouts to superclubs, we've rounded up the liveliest evening venues

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The skinny on the top tourist districts, including the most happening 'hoods

Trawl the mega malls and haggle in the traditional souks – it's time to hit the shops

Dubai is a dream destination for photography fans – we showcase one stunning shot

GET YOUR BEARINGS

THE SHOPS

IN THE FRAME

Produced for dnata by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. All prices mentioned are correct at the time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors contained in DXB City Expert.

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Simply book a pistol session at JA Shooting Club with three or more friends and the highest scorer gets to try their luck at our target of prizes.

We’ve got all sorts of exciting experiences to aim for, including a grand prize so hurry on over and shoot to win!

Book now to take your lucky shot, call 04 883 6555, email on jasc@jaresorts.com or visit www.jaresortshotels.com

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

SO THIS IS DUBAI

Get the skinny on the city with a quick history lesson. Armed with knowledge, head out to discover all the emirate has to offer for the holiday of a lifetime Looking down towards Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and beyond

SCRATCH BENEATH THE SURFACE A city of visual superlatives, it’s difficult to imagine Dubai without the gravitydefying presence of Burj Khalifa, the roar of supercars along its highways and wealth of plush malls, luxury hotels and record-breaking attractions.

Back in 1833, the nomadic Bani Yas tribe – led by the Maktoum family – migrated from the country’s desert interior to what was just a small coastal fishing, pearling and trading settlement.

Nothing much changed for the next 100 years until Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum became ruler and ordered that Dubai Creek be dredged to accommodate larger trading vessels, thus setting in motion the transformation of Dubai into a modern mega city.

The discovery of ‘black gold’ in 1966

was the real game-changer with newly found oil wealth the catalyst for the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. In an historic first, the ruling tribes of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah came together on 2 December 1971, followed by Ras Al Khaimah one year later, to form the country.

Under the leadership of the UAE’s first president, the late Sheikh Zayed (ruler of Abu Dhabi), and with the can-do attitude of Sheikh Rashid and support of the rulers of the other five emirates, the rest, as they say, is history.

The modern-day metropolis you’ve seen on TV is every bit as exciting as you can imagine. For a rich experience, we recommend that you get out onto the city streets, meet some of the more than 200 nationalities who are proud

to call Dubai home, and discover just what makes this one of the best destinations in the world to visit.

The climate The temperature in January reaches a peak of 24°C (75.2°F) – still balmy for some, although you'll see residents reaching for their woolies.

The currency The UAE Dirham is what you’ll use. Notes come in 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5, and their value is pegged at Dhs3.67 = USD1.

The weekend The UAE weekend falls on Friday/ Saturday. Friday is the holy day so bear in mind that some attractions may be closed until the early evening.

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ON ARRIVAL

You’ve arrived and you want to get to your hotel ASAP. Read our quick tips to get you out of the airport and into holiday mode, pronto Dubai International Airport

WHIZZ THROUGH WITH MARHABA Take a load off by booking a Marhaba service (+971 4 389 8989, marhabaservices.com) that will help you make a speedy arrival and departure. When you touch down, the friendly staff will be waiting with a transfer to passport control, where you'll be fast-tracked through the queue before a porter collects your luggage from the carousel.

When the time comes to leave, you'll enjoy a chauffeur pick-up from anywhere in Dubai, a quick journey through departures and access to the Marhaba lounge, where you can unwind and help yourself to the complimentary food and drink.

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LEAVING THE AIRPORT There are plenty of public taxis available at the airport, although you may need to queue. Women can get a step ahead by hopping into one of the pink-roofed taxis reserved especially for female travellers and families, and driven by ladies. Your fare will include a set airport pick-up fee of Dhs25.

Dubai International Airport is also connected to Dubai Metro at Terminals 1 and 3, with trains running every 10 minutes from 5am (or 10am on Fri) to midnight Sat to Wed and until 1am on Thur and Fri. If you’ve got extra baggage, best take a taxi, as metro travellers are restricted to one regular suitcase and one piece of hand luggage only.

All the major car hire companies have desks located after arrivals. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and in possession of a valid driving licence from their home country. Remember, we drive on the right-hand side here.

GET CONNECTED At the airport, you can pick up a Tourist SIM for local use – just head to the Du shop in the arrivals hall at Terminals 1 or 3. Simply pay the activation fee of Dhs65 and enjoy the Tourist Plan for data, calls and texts at a fraction of the roaming charges. Whenever you need to, you can easily top it up with a prepaid card sold at most major convenience stores, supermarkets and Du outlets (du.ae) across the city.

BRU

NAT NCH ION

BRUNCH

S D N E K E E YOUR W ORTED. S W O N E R A Neighborhood Thursday Buffet

Sky High Brunch at Observatory Bar & Grill

Brunch Nation at The Croft

Kick off your weekend by diving into a mouthwatering spread of delicious dishes from around the globe and take advantage of the refreshing beverage package in your favorite neighborhood Café.

Dubai’s coastal views and Marina’s enticing skyline are paired with the ultimate spread of dishes, varying from live stations offering juicy meats and fresh seafood to delicious concoctions of creative blends, sure to tantalize your palate.

Join us for this unique and fun brunch, inspired by a blend of cultures and tastes across the Commonwealth.

Celebrate food in a social setting, where a massive array of dishes hit your table.

Enjoy Buy 1 Get 1 AED 159 per person including soft drinks.

AED 259 per person including house beverages

AED 350 per person including selected beverages (original price AED 450)

AED 279 per person including selected beverages (original price AED 399) Every Friday from 7pm to 10pm

Fridays, 12.30pm to 3.30pm

Thursdays, from 6.30pm to 10pm.

For restaurant reservations, call 971.4.319.4000 DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street | Dubai Marina marriottharbourdubaidining.com Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites | marriottharbour The Offer is valid until 31 January 2019. A valid associate id must be presented to avail the offer. Subject to availability and prior reservation is required. Cannot be availed in conjunction with any other offer or discounts.

GET YOUR BEARINGS

If it's your first time in the city, you're probably not au fait with the hip and happening 'hoods. Here's the low-down on the top tourist districts to explore

Drift Beach Dubai

DOWNTOWN DUBAI Go big or go home is the name of the game here, with the area boasting an impressive collection of iconic attractions, including: one of the world's largest shopping malls, The Dubai Mall; the tallest tower on the planet, Burj Khalifa; the all-singing-all-dancing The Dubai Fountain; and the architecturallystunning Dubai Opera. Trawl the mall's multitude of shops, pick up some mementoes at the Arabianstyle Souk Al Bahar and pose for selfies along the Waterfront Promenade before enjoying dinner and drinks overlooking Burj Lake.

The dazzling Burj Khalifa Photo by Thomas Drouault

DUBAI MARINA AND JBR Those with a taste for luxury will feel right at home in this vibrant district, which is one of the city's most popular (and glamorous) residential neighbourhoods.

Built around a man-made marina and flanked by a virtual forest of residential towers, Dubai Marina boasts two beachfront promenades – The Walk and The Beach at JBR. These are lined with hotels, eateries and super trendy shops. It’s largely pedestrian friendly but is bisected by Dubai Tram, which handily stops outside the popular Dubai Marina Mall, home to 140 retail outlets spread across four levels.

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS Burj Al Arab standing tall Photo by Christoph Schulz

JUMEIRAH The low-rise villa neighbourhood that spawned the Jumeirah Jane epithet (think 'ladies who lunch'), Jumeirah's domestic suburbia reputation has been given a makeover in recent years with the development of hip new retail, dining and entertainment enclaves such as La Mer, BoxPark, City Walk and food truck friendly Jumeirah Corniche. Topped at one end by Jumeirah Mosque and tailed by Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah at the other, it’s a cross-cultural hotspot. Wild Wadi Water Park is a firm favourite among residents and tourists alike, offering 30 hair-raising rides and slides for all the family.

The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah

PALM JUMEIRAH Another of Dubai’s iconic man-made projects – best viewed from above to fully appreciate its creatively engineered design – Palm Jumeirah blends posh apartments and villas with luxury hotels and malls all the way from its trunk to the tips of its feathered fronds. Ride the Palm Monorail to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and enjoy the thrills and spills of Aquaventure Waterpark. Grab a bite to eat at foodie destination The Pointe, and check out the bevy of five-star hotels along the crescent, from One&Only The Palm Resort to Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD The pulsing arterial vein cutting through the city, this 8km-long stretch of busy highway runs parallel to the coastline. Numerous hotels are situated along its length, and there are plenty of attractions worth making a diversion for. We recommend feeling the grass beneath your feet at Zabeel Park, and checking out Dubai Water Canal, which is illuminated by night.

A spaghetti junction on Sheikh Zayed Road Photo by Asalan Cheema

Bur Dubai Souk

BUR DUBAI AND DEIRA On either side of Dubai Creek you can discover the heritage heartland of the city. Feed your appetite for culture on the Bur Dubai side at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which is home to preserved wind tower houses, Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House (one of the oldest buildings in the city). Take a Dhs1 ferry ride across the water to Deira to explore the traditional souks and sample the street food.

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CITY MAP

City Sightseeing Dubai

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SO THIS IS DUBAI

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JAN

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JANUARY IN DUBAI

Walk the greens with golfing greats, see George Ezra in concert and cheer on the powerboats

GOLF'S BIG HIT

Tiger Woods at the 2017 Omega Dubai Desert Classic

See some of the world’s top golfers battle it out for the Dallah trophy at the 2019 Omega Dubai Desert Classic, which is taking place on the Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club from 24-27 January. This year marks the tournament's 30th edition, with a new viewing platform on the 18th green and new food and drink area on the 15th hole. There's a host of talent participating, including World No. 5 Bryson DeChambeau, who is known as golf’s ‘Mad Scientist’ due to his unique one plane swing and use of single-length shafts. Built in 1988, the Majlis Course was the first grass course in the region. Tickets cost from Dhs75 per day, or Dhs250 for a season ticket. omegadubaidesertclassic.com

SWAY TO GEORGE EZRA English singer-songwriter George Ezra is performing in Dubai for the first time on 22 January at Dubai World Trade Centre. Get your groove on as the soulful artist belts out his hits, including songs from his second album, Staying at Tamara’s, which quickly shot to number one in the UK album charts.

Tickets cost from Dhs295 for general admission and Dhs459 for a seat in the Golden Circle. ticketmaster.ae

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FEEL THE POWER Dubai's watersports season is in full swing and the UAE Wooden Powerboat Championship Round 1, on 19 January, provides a coveted chance to experience the city's blend of old and new.

Around 15 crafts manned by local sportsmen will compete in the threeround event along Al Sufouh Beach, between the Palm Jumeirah crescent and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. dimc.ae

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

A relaxing realm of quiet luxury, Saray Spa at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is an authentic wellness Spa, where ancient healing techniques and locally sourced natural ingredients are combined to enhance the well-being of each guest.

The Spa features 17 treatment rooms, inclusive of two private Hammam rooms, one Dead Sea treatment room boasting the UAE’s only Dead Sea Floatation Pool found within, and two Private Luxury Spa Suites.

Experience the wonders of the Middle East through Arabian Body Rituals or Hammam Rituals, or benefit from the results-oriented facials. An exclusive retail boutique offers luxurious gifts and spa products for every occasion.

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE T +971 4 414 6754 | mhrs.dxbjw.spa@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

THE TOURS Premium Safari

The Tours

Bags unpacked, suncream slathered on – it’s time to get out and see what this city is all about.

Take a cue from our friends at Arabian Adventures and City Sightseeing who are on hand to help you discover the best bits with their selection of top tours…

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MODERN DUBAI CITY TOUR

See the best of Dubai’s iconic landmarks on one, awe-inspiring journey +

THESE PAGES:

Tour combo from Dhs380

Take to the water and see new Dubai

Departs from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah Explore the landmarks of the city on a half-day tour. From Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina to Downtown Dubai and The Dubai Mall – see all of the iconic sights. ● Drive to Dubai Marina and enjoy a 20-min boat ride ● See Palm Jumeirah and pass by Atlantis The Palm, Dubai on a scenic drive ● Stop for a photo of the Dubai skyline ● Make a photo-stop outside Burj Al Arab Jumeirah en route to Dubai Frame ● Take in scenic views of

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Dubai from the walkway 150m-high at Dubai Frame ● Continue to The Dubai Mall with its many leisure, shopping and dining options ● The tour ends at The Dubai Mall ● After the tour, you can choose to visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa (tickets available); or choose to combine this tour with the Traditional Dubai City Tour in the afternoon

THE FACTS

(including At the Top).

Departures: Daily (morning) for English and German tours. For other languages, the days of operation varies.

Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Mandarin, and Japanese.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Half-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Moderate.

Good to know: The tour ends at The Dubai Mall.

Modest dress is advised.

How much: From Dhs240 for adults and Dhs185 for children (excluding At the Top) and Dhs370 for adults and Dhs315 for children

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

ASK THE CITY EXPERT Nabil Almallah Tour Guide, Arabian Adventures Guests really enjoy seeing the amazing architecture and modern sights of Dubai while learning more about the city on this half-day tour.

THE TOURS

TRADITIONAL DUBAI CITY TOUR A ‘must-do’ for any visitor to the emirate

Be dazzled at the Gold Souk

ASK THE CITY EXPERT MUHAMMAD YOUNUS Tour guide, Arabian Adventures My favourite parts of the tour are stopping by the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk. The mixture of nationalities you meet at these marketplaces offers a truly authentic experience for all.

Departs from all emirates Learn more about Dubai's rich history and tradition on a grand tour of the old city.

See merchant traders at Dubai Creek, get an insight into times gone by at Dubai Museum and browse the famous souks. ● Drive along Jumeirah Beach Road to the iconic Jumeirah Mosque and stop for photos ● Continue on to Zabeel Palace for another photostop and onward to the traditional side of Dubai ● Stroll through Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which is known for its windtower architecture ● Visit Dubai Museum ● Take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across

Dubai Creek ● Follow our entertaining guide through the Spice Souk and Gold Souk

Cross Dubai Creek on an abra

For history buffs

THE FACTS How much: Dhs185.

Departures: Daily (morning) for English and German tours. For other languages, the days of operation varies.

Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Mandarin, and Japanese.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Half-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Moderate.

Good to know: When departing from Abu Dhabi, this is a full-day tour on Sun and Thur, including

an afternoon stop at The Dubai Mall. The itinerary may vary. Hotel transfers are included.

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

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ABU DHABI CITY TOUR

See the UAE’s vibrant capital and its landmark buildings See the stunning Emirates Palace

ASK THE CITY EXPERT Natalia Bashkirova Tour Guide, Arabian Adventures It's always a pleasure to guide my guests around the UAE capital.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture with a spectacularly decorated interior.

Departs from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Abu Dhabi Explore the panoramic sights and grand landmarks of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, on a full-day tour.

English departures: Mon, Tue, Wed and Sat for English and German tours. For other languages, the days of operation varies. ● Arriving in Abu Dhabi, tour the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ● Pass the tree-lined residential area of Al Bateen and the royal palaces ● Visit Heritage Village, which showcases traditional times ● Stop at Marina Mall for lunch at one of the cafés (not

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included in the tour price, as there are many options available) ● Drive along the Abu Dhabi Corniche ● Pass Louvre Abu Dhabi for a photo-stop ● Leaving Abu Dhabi behind, return to Dubai in the late afternoon

THE FACTS How much: Dhs290.

Departures: Mon, Tue, Wed

Pass by Louvre Abu Dhabi Photography by Mohamed Somji

and Sat.

Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Russian, and Japanese.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Full-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Easy.

Good to know: Departing

from Abu Dhabi, this is a half-day tour (excluding time spent at Louvre Abu Dhabi and Marina Mall, and lunch stops on Mon, Wed and Sat).

Hotel transfers are included.

There is a dress code for

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Louvre Abu Dhabi (please see szgmc.gov.ae).

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

THE TOURS

SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE AND ABU DHABI ATTRACTIONS Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the exciting attractions on Yas Island

Tour the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Departs from Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman See Abu Dhabi Corniche on a scenic drive and visit top attractions in the UAE capital on a fun-filled tour. ● Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for a tour of this majestic landmark ● Drive through the city passing by picturesque sights such as the Abu Dhabi Corniche ● Leave the city behind for an afternoon of family-fun ● Choose from an exciting selection of options for things to see and do in the afternoon. You can: visit theme parks Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or Warner Bros.

World Abu Dhabi; explore the many shopping, dining and leisure attractions at Yas Mall; or visit Louvre Abu Dhabi.

(Tickets to these attractions are priced separately to the tour) ● The tour guide will advise

drop-off and pick-up times at each stop ● After a thrilling afternoon, depart for Dubai

THE FACTS How much: Dhs290.

English Departures: Sun and Thur.

Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Full-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Easy.

Good to know: Please be punctual for the pick-up times at each stop. Hotel transfers are included. Plus, please note there is a dress code for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (please see szgmc.gov.ae).

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

Fun for thrillseekers at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

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PREMIUM SAFARI

For smaller groups seeking an extraordinary adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes Departs from all emirates Enjoy a smaller group safari on our premium experience. ● Depart from your hotel in a modern and spacious fourwheel drive vehicle ● Learn interesting facts from your safari guide en route ● Enter the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) and pause to watch a falcon display (weather permitting) ● Enjoy a thrilling dune drive and watch the sun set from a pristine desert location with a glass of bubbly or sparkling date juice and camel milk chocolate (juices are available for children) ● Arrive at our Bedouinstyle camp to a traditional welcome of Arabic coffee and dates ● Entertainment for the evening includes a camel ride, mini sandboarding and henna hand painting. Watch a belly dancing performance (entertainment may vary during religious holidays) ● Move to the seating area and enjoy an Arabic style, three-course buffet ● Those aged 21 years and over can enjoy unlimited select beverages (except on the eve of religious holidays) ● Take part in stargazing before returning to your hotel

THE FACTS Starting from: Dhs790.

Departures: Daily.

Availability: Winter

Pause to watch a falcon display

Activity: Easy.

Good to know: You have the option to upgrade to a private four-wheel drive vehicle, if preferred. Vegetarian and children's meals can be requested at the time of booking. The tour accepts a maximum of four guests per vehicle and a maximum of 40 guests per night. Hotel transfers are included. Food and softdrinks are included. Select beverages are available. A portion of your fee supports local conservation.

(1 October to 30 April).

Duration: Late afternoon to early evening.

Transport: Four-wheel drive (sharing).

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To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

Enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee

THE TOURS

SUNDOWNER SAFARI

Embark on a magical safari experience to remember Ride the ships of the desert

Must-do safari ASK THE CITY EXPERT FAISAL KHAN Safari guide, Arabian Adventures This must-do safari is suitable for everyone.

At the campsite, there are lots of activities to try, such as sandboarding, camel rides and even a spot of stargazing. Guests always say how the memories will last a lifetime.

Departs from all emirates This iconic Dubai desert experience is one that simply cannot be missed.

Watch the sun go down while on a dune drive in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR). Arrive at our traditional Bedouin-style camp, where an entertaining schedule of activities and a delicious evening meal awaits. ● Leave your hotel and the city behind; head into the desert with our entertaining safari guide in a four-wheel drive vehicle ● Enter DDCR and watch a falcon display (weather permitting) ● Enjoy the fun of a dune drive and, at sunset, stop for panoramic photos of the golden landscape ● Arrive at our Bedouin-

style camp to a traditional welcome of Arabic coffee and delicious dates ● Souvenirs and photos are available to buy ● Move to the seating area and enjoy an Arabic style, three-course buffet ● Take part in stargazing before returning to your hotel

THE FACTS

Good to know: We offer the option to upgrade to a private four-wheel drive vehicle. Plus, you can choose to skip the dune drive if you prefer. Permanent toilets are available at the campsite.

Be sure to book your group on either the Sunset Safari or Sundowner Safari – the itinerary varies. Vegetarian and children's meals can be

requested at the time of booking. Hotel transfers are included. Food and soft drinks are included. Select beverages are available. A portion of your fee supports local conservation efforts.

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

How much: From Dhs290.

Sunset Safari: Dhs290 for adults (excluding the falconry viewing and select beverages).

Sundowner Safari: Dhs395 for adults (all-inclusive).

Departures: Daily.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Late afternoon to early evening.

Transport: Four-wheel-drive (sharing).

Activity: Easy.

Raise a toast in the dunes

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NATURE SAFARI

One for wildlife fans – this tour provides an up-close view of native animals Be on the look out for Arabian oryx

Informative and fun

Departs from all emirates The desert presents a unique opportunity to learn about and explore a natural habitat and a fragile ecosystem. ● Drive through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) where you may spot Arabian wildlife such as the Arabian oryx and gazelle ● Learn about sustainability and conservation efforts ● Hear interesting facts about flora and fauna from our safari guide ● Assist in capturing data for DDCR ● Pass the tranquil lakes that are located inside the conservation reserve and

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be on the lookout for various bird species

THE FACTS Starting from: Dhs230.

Departures: Daily (morning).

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Half-day.

Transport: Four-wheel-drive (sharing).

Activity: Moderate.

Good to know: Hotel transfers are included. Softdrinks are included in the tour.

A portion of your fee supports local conservation efforts.

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

Gazelle roam the conservation reserve

THE TOURS

OVERNIGHT SAFARI

Sleep amid the dunes on this spectacular Arabian adventure

Go glamping in the desert

Departs from all emirates The ultimate 'glamping' (glamorous camping) experience in the heart of the pristine dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR). Leave your worries behind for a tranquil overnight getaway under the stars. ● Watch a falcon display (weather permitting) and then embark on a thrilling desert dune drive ● Take a leisurely camel ride into the campsite ● The overnight camp offers glamorous camping

at its best. Permanent tents surround a gazebo and a bonfire ● A delicious barbecue dinner is served in the gazebo or majlis and includes grilled meats, fresh salads, sweets and selected beverages ● In the morning, awake to a freshly-prepared hot breakfast ● Embark on a morning desert drive with a chance to see native wildlife ● Leaving the desert behind, you will return to your hotel late morning

THE FACTS How much: From Dhs1,045 per person.

Double occupancy (two people sharing a tent): Dhs1,045 per person.

Single Occupancy (one person in a tent): Dhs1,365.

Departures: Daily.

Availability: Winter only (1 October to 30 April).

Duration: Overnight.

Transport: Four-wheel-drive

permanent showers and toilets are available on-site. You will depart Dubai at around 3pm and return the following day at around 11am. Luggage storage is available. Hotel transfers are included. Food and soft-drinks are included, as well as selected beverages.

A portion of your fee supports conservation efforts by Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

(sharing).

Activity: Easy.

Good to know: Towels and linen are provided and

To book, please call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

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CITY SIGHTSEEING TOUR

Discover Dubai at your own pace on the ultimate city bus tour Photo opportunities abound

HIGHLIGHTS

● Five sightseeing routes ● Audio commentary in 13 languages ● Complimentary tickets to other attractions (see below)

The ‘hop on, hop off’ concept is simple: a ticket is valid for one day or more, with over 41 bus stops across five sightseeing routes.

You decide when to ride, where to get off, and what to visit. Tickets have lots of added extras and there is audio commentary in 13 languages. Operating daily from 9am to 10pm (varies on selected routes).

THE FACTS Days of operation: Daily, from 9am to 5.30pm.

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What’s included: The 1 Day Pass includes: a cultural dhow cruise and pearl experience at Al Seef, entry to Dubai Museum, a seat on the Night Tour, a free cup of coffee at Costa Coffee when you purchase one, entry to Global Village and water while you're on-board the bus. The 3 Days Pass includes all the above inclusions, plus: entry to Dubai Aquarium Underwater Zoo and a back of the house tour, a onehour Palm Jumeirah cruise and 20% discount at Sun&

Mediterranean Lounge. The 7 Days Pass includes all the above experiences, plus: a trip on the Flying Cup at The Beach at JBR, plus a onehour canal tour.

Good to know: Before your 1 Day Pass has expired, you can upgrade to a 3 or 7 Day Pass.

Languages: English, Arabic, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Mandarin, Japanese, Turkish and Farsi.

How much: The 1 Day Pass is priced at Dhs260 per adult

and Dhs160 per child; 3 Day Pass is Dhs350 per adult and Dhs250 per child; 7 Day Pass is Dhs450 per adult and Dhs350 per child. (Children's tickets are for those aged 6-11.

All prices inclusive of VAT.) To book, please visit citysightseeing-dubai.com or call 800CSDUBAI (800 273 8224)/+971 4 316 7506

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CitySightseeingDubai @cssdubai #cssdubai

THE TOURS

NIGHT TOUR

See the city come alive with light that illuminates the night's sky Pass by Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

HIGHLIGHTS

● Discover two sightseeing routes showcasing Dubai by night ● See all the major sights including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Festival City and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai ● Audio commentary in 13 languages

See Dubai transform by night into a sparkling city of lights while discovering its cultural heart. The 'Sunset Red' route lets you explore the historic Dubai Creek, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai Festival City, Shindagha and Deira districts where the traditional souks are located. Meanwhile, the 'Midnight Blue' route showcases the striking skyline, including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai.

hop-off access to all City Sightseeing buses on two routes for three hours.

Good to know: This tour is free when purchasing a 1 Day, 3 Day or 7 Day City Sightseeing Dubai Pass; both routes are included in the ticket price and there is enough time to do both.

Languages: English, Arabic, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Mandarin, Japanese, Turkish and Farsi.

How much: Dhs180 per adult and Dhs120 per child (6-11 years). Inclusive of VAT.

THE FACTS

To book, please visit citysightseeing-dubai.com or call 800CSDUBAI (800 273 8224)/+971 4 316 7506

Days of operation: Daily from 6.15pm to 10pm.

What’s included: Hop-on,

Take your seat on the open-top bus

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Kizmet

The Food

Dubai’s cultural diversity is reflected in its culinary mosaic of fantastic restaurants, from the best Indian food this side of the subcontinent to sleek Japanese eateries and authentic Arabic mezze.

It’s little wonder that world-renowned chefs are falling over themselves to open venues in the city 26

THE FOOD

WHAT’S NEW IN TOWN? The big news this month is the arrival to these fair shores of the multi-Michelinstarred chef Alain Duassse, who has washed up at Kempinski Emerald Palace Hotel on Palm Jumeirah. miX Dubai

by Alain Ducasse (+971 4 248 8600, kempinski.com) sees Ducasse show off his signature style of melding classical French with the contemporary, while adding a hint of local flavour. The draw card for serious foodies here is the chef's table, hidden away and accessed by private elevator only.

For dinner with a side of drama, Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen (caesars. com) at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai (its second global outpost outside of Las Vegas) will transport you straight to the studio set, with signature dishes like lobster risotto and sticky toffee pudding, as featured on the hit show.

New to Downtown is Kizmet (+971 4 33 88 717, kizmetrestaurant.com) a two-storey licensed neighbourhood eatery open all day to serve brasserie-style dishes like salads, pizzas and pastas. Its setting, aside Dubai Opera, is a great one.

Over at the idyllic setting of Dubai Hills Golf Club, now home to not one but two dining venues. The Duck Hook (800 666353) is a gastro pub (albeit a rather plush one), where British-inspired fare and craft beverages are par for the course. We're talking the likes of steak and ale pie, duck-fat chips, and Eton mess. A literal stone's throw from here is Hillhouse Brasserie (+971 4 432 3232), an upmarket boulangerie and brasserie offering brasserie staples and a pleasant atmosphere to boot.

Fond of smashing a few plates of an evening? Then head to Opa (+971 4 357 0557, fairmont.com/dubai), which opens this month at The Fairmont Hotel Dubai, on Sheikh Zayed Road. The menu here has the full range of traditional Greek favourites, with grilled meats, zesty salads, and fresh fish to the fore.

miX Dubai by Alain Ducasse

The Duck Hook

Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen

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Looking for healthy business lunch options in the heart of Business Bay? Come down to La Farine CafĂŠ and Bakery and enjoy delicious items from a selected menu, with your choice of soup, salad or sandwich with a softdrink and a coffee for AED 99.

Available Sunday to Thursday from 12pm until 4pm.

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay T +971 4 414 3000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JWMarriottMarquisDubai | JWDubaiMarquis | LaFarineDXB

THE FOOD

FOODIE DISTRICT

Rang Mahal

IN THE KNOW

Healthy heroes COMPTOIR 102 Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 4 385 4555, comptoir102.com The menu makes use of the best ingredients from local organic farms to serve up tasty and nutritious dishes that appeal to health food devotees.

WILD & THE MOON Alserkal Avenue, +971 4 385 5120, wildandthemoon.com Here, the vegan chef has developed a wholesome menu of plant-based recipes to which nothing has been added.

OMNIA GOURMET Jumeirah Fish Harbour, +971 4 343 7181 Somewhat of a hidden gem, chef Silvena Rowe serves up a menu rife with healthy options, from vegan through to paleo.

INCREDIBLE INDIAN Few restaurants have mastered modern Indian cuisine quite like the multi-awardwinning Rang Mahal (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com), which graces the second floor of JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. The varied menu, which fuses tradition with contemporary flair, sings with a cacophony of flavour and creativity. We heartily recommend you indulge in one of the great value tasting menus – every bite is a delight.

If there’s a sure thing in the restaurant industry it’s that an Indian restaurant operated by Taj Hotels is going to be good, if not very good.

Falling very much into the latter category, Bombay Brasserie (+971 4 438 3100, tajhotels.com) sees chef de cuisine Ajay Negi conjure up flavours as vibrant as the restaurant’s interiors.

Bag the right table and you’ll also take in the sight of The Dubai Fountain.

It has hosted A-listers including Sir Paul McCartney at its flagship Mumbai venue. Now, gastronauts can embark on a spice-laden journey through northern India at Khyber at DUKES

DUBAI DESIGN DISTRICT The stunning Dubai Design District (d3) is home to some of the city’s most cutting edge design and creative firms, as well as The Design Quarter, where visitors will find homegrown restaurant concepts, innovative boutiques and unique art installations. Concept store meets casual restaurant, The Lighthouse (+971 4 422 6024, thelighthouse.ae), is headed up by one of Dubai’s best chefs, Izu Ani. The licensed venue has a superb mezze menu – order the marinated salmon with cranberries and baked feta with oregano.

Also licensed here is the quirky (in a good way) Molecule (+971 4 245 4700, molecule.restaurant), which offers a ‘bistronomy’ (‘bistro’ meets ‘gastronomy’) concept for better-than-bistro-standard food, including a rich risotto with truffle. Chez Charles Restaurant (+971 512 2444, chezcharlesrestaurant.ae), a modern brasserie, does staples like fish and chips, and carbonara very well.

Molecule

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Dubai (+971 4 455 1111, dukesdubai. com). Snag a table on the terrace for great views of Dubai Marina.

In a wonderful, colonial style setting, Little Miss India (+971 4 457 3457, fairmont.com) at Fairmont The Palm excels in housemade spice mixtures and marinades – used to brilliant effect in both the food and inspired cocktails, which put an Indian spin on classic recipes.

CHINESE CRACKERS Occupying a great spot by the water in Madinat Jumeirah, Zheng He's (+971 4 432 3232, jumeirah.com) has been around long enough (over a decade) to fully master its signature dishes, the highlights of which are golden king prawns flavoured with Chinese mustard and topped with spicy mayo, and the duck, which is carved at your table and readied for you to roll in plum sauce-smothered pancakes.

Another purveyor of high-quality Chinese classics is Shiba (+971 4 381 3111, meydanhotels.com), at The Meydan Hotel, where the interactive open kitchen adds a sprinkling of theatre. For special occasions, request the Tatami-style private dining room.

Aseelah

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A TRUE TASTE OF THE EMIRATES Considering all the many colourful cuisines Dubai has to offer, it may come as a surprise to learn that good Emirati food is not so easy to come by.

However, slowly but surely, more and more authentic Emirati restaurants are cropping up across town.

An enduring favourite is Al Fanar (+971 4 232 9966, alfanarrestaurant. com), located along Canal Walk in Dubai Festival City Mall. You can dine outside on floor cushions in the traditional majlis or at a table in the central courtyard area, which looks like a traditional Emirati home.

The dishes on offer include chicken machboos (spiced chicken mixed with rice), grilled shaari fish and jesheed (baby shark cooked with onions and punchy spices).

You’ll find camel on the menu at Aseelah (+971 4 205 7333, radissonblu. com) in the Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, alongside other dishes made using local ingredients, such as a tender Arabian lobster. For an insight into the country's heritage, The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353

IN THE KNOW

Big name chefs JASON ATHERTON Marina Social, InterContinental Dubai Marina. +971 4 446 6777, ihg.com Atherton’s Social concept has won an army of fans in London, and its Dubai offshoot is a great destination for dishes big on detail.

DAVID MYERS Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai. +971 4 512 5522, marriott. com Myers oversees two restaurants at this hip hotel: Basta!, a go-to for Italian staples, and the French farmhouse style Bleu Blanc.

HEINZ BECK Social, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. +971 4 818 2222, waldorfastoria3.hilton.com A master of modern gastronomy, Beck’s artistry is best conveyed through sublime dishes like saltbaked sea bass with cauliflower, truffle sauce and orange perfume.

THE FOOD

Chalet Berezka

FOODIE DISTRICT

THE POINTE The latest foodie destination on everyone's lips, this Dhs800 million dining and leisure destination on the Palm Jumeirah waterfront is bringing over 70 restaurants to the scene – a selection of which you can't find anywhere else. Among those already open are Chalet Berezka, where you can taste authentic Uzbek fare, Rue Royale for delectable French,

and Palapa for fiery Mexican – the list goes on! Eateries comprise a whopping 70% of what's on offer, but there's also a smattering of shops and attractions to explore, such as Typo, Cheeky Monkeys kids' play area and beauty salon Tips & Toes. Even the boutique Reel Cinemas has a foodie spin, with three of the screens serving signature dishes by Guy Fieri direct to your seat. Wherever

you choose to eat, its location five kilometres out to sea, means you can lap up the cool breeze as you dine al fresco. Afterwards, take a stroll along the promenade and snap a photo for your holiday album against the stunning backdrop. Also in the pipeline is a choreographed fountain, which will take pride of place at the tip of the island when it opens towards the end of next year. thepointe.ae 31

Kishmish

Tresind

Bateaux Dubai

MADE IN THE UAE Although Dubai has more than its fair share of excellent restaurants, a huge helping of them are franchised from elsewhere in the world. However, if you want to head to somewhere you’ll only find in Dubai there are some great options to choose from.

With cracking views of the sea, folly by Nick & Scott (+971 4 430 8535, folly.ae), by two longtime Dubaibased chefs with a rich pedigree – including a combined eight years at Gordon Ramsay Holdings – offers up a thoughtful menu of modern European sharing dishes. The cooking is precise, the flavours impactful, and what they can do with a mere

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folly by Nick & Scott

mushroom and plain old radish needs to be tasted to be believed.

If you want to see more of the city as you dine, hop aboard Bateaux Dubai (+ 971 4 336 6768, jaresortshotels. com). This popular floating restaurant will take you on a cruise along Dubai Creek so you can soak up the sights while tucking into a four-course meal. The boat is moored on the Bur Dubai side of the creek, at Al Seef.

Trèsind (+971 4 308 0440, nassimaroyalhotel.com) offers a bold expression of modern Indian cooking and presentation, in which elements of molecular gastronomy are done to perfection. Plus, the mixologists here have developed a

drinks menu that's second to none in the city. You’ll also want to visit the wonderful beachside development that’s La Mer while in Dubai.

After time spent exploring it, make Masti (800 62784, mastidubai. com) your final destination. Head upstairs to enjoy a couple of brilliantly inventive drinks – the mango chutney infused mahar mojito, for one – then go downstairs to enjoy food that’s termed an expression of ‘new India’.

For something very different, Kishmish (+971 4 349 6665, kishmish.ae) in Dar Wasl Mall in Jumeirah, brings Afghan street food to Dubai for the first time via chef owners who have been family friends for generations.

THE FOOD 6666, cultures.ae) offers interactive ‘cultural meals’ – so named because guests are encouraged to ask questions on anything that relates to the Emirati culture – prepared by local chefs in order to preserve the traditions and customs of the Bedouin people. They offer a cultural breakfast on Mondays and Wednesdays, lunch on Sundays and Tuesdays, brunch every Saturday and dinner every Tuesday. Advance booking is required.

ARABIC YOU’LL ADORE For an authentic desert dining experience under the stars, journey into the dunes to Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa (+971 4 809 6194, alhadheerah.com). Take your pick from 14 live cooking stations offering traditional Middle Eastern dishes

IN THE KNOW

Dinner with a view… …OF BURJ AL ARAB Shimmers, Madinat Jumeirah, +971 4 4323232, jumeirah.com A menu of home-style Greek favourites is ably supported by a casual, toes-in-the-sand atmosphere.

...OF BURJ KHALIFA AND THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN Katana, Address Downtown, +971 4 277 8808, katana-dubai.com Katana specialises in the robatayaki style of Japanese cuisine. It’s fabulous enough to match the view.

…OF DUBAI MARINA 101 Dining Lounge and Bar One&Only The Palm Dubai, +971 440 1010, thepalm. oneandonlyresorts.com Drink in picture-perfect views while enjoying contemporary European fare from a menu rubber-stamped by super-chef Yannick Alléno.

Al Falamanki

prepared using age-old recipes. Live entertainment adds to the ambience.

Open daily from 7.30pm to 11.30pm – try to plan your visit on a Thursday or Friday evening to catch the fireworks.

A hit among Dubai’s sizeable Lebanese community, Al Falamanki (alfalamanki.com) is an outpost of one of Beirut’s most famous restaurants. Like the original, this sprawling Jumeirah Beach Road branch features indoor and outdoor areas, homely décor and a soft soundtrack of old-school Arabic music.

On the menu are hot and cold mezze, salads, grills and manakeesh, along with a selection of shisha. The done thing here is to order a load of dishes to share and settle in for a game of backgammon.

Olea (+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates prides itself on authentic cuisine, thanks to its 14-strong team of chefs drawn from Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine.

Highlights include the lamb kofta, served on a 1.5m-long skewer.

TURKISH DELIGHTS In Souk Al Bahar, the outdoor terrace at Günaydin (+971 4 554 0700, gunaydindubai.com) is a top spot for views of Burj Khalifa and, at night, The Dubai Fountain. The Turkish ‘meatery’ serves meat in all its forms: traditional döner, succulent kebabs, juicy meatballs, and lovingly cooked steaks.

Over at Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai favourite Colin Clague can be found working his magic at high design Anatolian eatery Rüya (+971 4 399 9123, ruyadubai.com). Infused with caramelised and charcoal flavours, cağ kebabı (marinated lamb kebab) is the pick of the menu.

TIME FOR THAI Showcasing unique regional dishes alongside street food favourites and authentic yet inventive classics, Tong Thai (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, is regularly

33

FOODIE DISTRICT

THE BEACH AT JBR A brilliant pedestrianised area mere metres from the sand and sea, The Beach at JBR is the perfect place to head for a good-value feed for your family. Your best bet is to simply stroll the length of it, stopping to peruse the menus at places that catch your eye – there are myriad cuisines to choose from.

The brainchild of Michelinstarred chef Thomas Keller, Bouchon Bakery at The Beach at JBR (+971 4 419 0772) is perfect for a morning pick-me-up. Indulge in sticky sweet pastries and a cup of custom-blended TK by Equator coffee. voted the best Thai restaurant in the city.

If the ocean air puts you Signature curries like creamy panang in the mood for seafood, kung with tiger prawns and gai phad kacrack open a crab at Aprons prao with chilli and hot basil pack plenty & Hammers (+971 4 456 of depth and flavour, while classics like 7888, apronsandhammers. tom yum have been honed to perfection. com). Or, for good licensed You’ll arrive at Madinat Jumeirah’s options down this way, head Pai Thai (+971 4 432 3232, jumeirah. to DoubleTree by Hilton. It com) via abra, floating across a winding houses both The Maine (+971 waterway – romantic, for sure. Equally 4 457 6719, themaine.ae) – satisfying is the food, particularly dishes part American brasserie and like goong gra tiem prik thai: crispy tiger part European bistro – serving prawns teamed with garlic, coriander great seafood, and the and a piquant green pepper sauce. always buzzing Ramusake (+971 4 5595 300, ramusake.

SUBLIME SUSHI AND SASHIMI ae), for modern Japanese.

Beyond the elsewhere-mentioned Bouchon & Bakery

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Zuma, Dubai is home to a fair few standout Japanese restaurants, including outposts of Novikov and Nobu. Better still, TOMO (+971 4 357 7888, tomo.ae) at Raffles Dubai, is helmed by chef-owner Chitoshi Takahashi who has devised a vast menu of authentic Japanese delicacies, best navigated with the help of your waiter.

There’s more of a fun vibe over at Izakaya at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com, +971 4 414 3000). For a start, the so-

Izakaya

IN THE KNOW

Sublime steaks PRIME68 JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com The premium beef here is sourced from choice suppliers across the globe and tastes superb, matched by the views from the 68th floor.

STK Rixos Premium Dubai, +971 4 520 0000, togrp.com One of two Dubai outposts of the world- famous steak restaurant offers a winning mix of STK classics and dishes created only for Dubai.

JW’S STEAKHOUSE JW Marriott Dubai, +971 4 607 7977, marriottdiningatjw.ae Something of a Dubai institution, chef Mohammad Iqbal has been in the kitchen for over 20 years and knows each of his (many) regulars’ preferences by heart.

THE FOOD called Wasabi Girl (she has wasabi coloured hair) makes the head-blowing Japanese mustard at your table. Yet the food is of serious quality; plump, fabulously fresh sashimi and inventive sushi creations are always on the mark.

Take a seat at the sushi counter, or position yourself in full view of the live teppanyaki counter at Morimoto Dubai at Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai (+971 4 512 5577, morimotodubai.com), which showcases Masaharu Morimoto's trademark culinary style, with seasonal seafood flown in from markets around the world, including Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji and Fukuoka fish markets.

Bridgewater Tavern

PAN-ASIAN FLAVOURS

BEST OF BRITISH

When you crave Asian food in any one of its guises, nowhere does it better than the award-toting Mekong (+971 4 567 8304, dubai-palm.anantara.com) at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

Its lengthy menu includes myriad Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese highlights (the duck curry is a big hitter), which you enjoy on rickshaw-style seating.

Taking her culinary direction from the many varied street foods of Korea, Thailand, China, Vietnam and Japan, Miss Tess (+971 4 438 3121, misstessdubai. com) brings an element of fun dining to Taj Dubai, where the eclecticism of the menu is matched by that of the interiors.

On Palm Jumeirah, housed in the beautiful Dukes Dubai, is the Great British Restaurant, otherwise known as GBR (+971 4 455 1101, dukesdubai.com).

This is the place to come for expertly cooked (better than your mum makes) roast dinners with all the trimmings, fish and chips with crispy batter and feather-light fish, and comforting cottage pie fashioned from slow cooked beef. Bookend your mains with a fabulous coronation chicken and a sweet treat such as the quintessentially English sticky toffee pudding.

At The Croft (+971 4 319 4000, marriott. com), modern British cuisine with a twist is the culinary mantra (try the tongue and cheek pie, it's a surprisingly delicious revelation). With a focus on sourcing homegrown produce and working with local suppliers where possible, the menu is packed with the expected and the intriguing, with dishes such foie grasstuffed chicken and Chef Sentil's mum's curry among the highlights.

The Scene (+971 422 2328, thescenedubai.com) by TV chef and serial author Simon Rimmer is the frontrunner at Pier 7, a hugely popular seven-floor, seven-restaurant tower set on a (licensed) pier in glamorous Dubai Marina. British-style comfort food is the gist of it – think succulent, deep-filled pies, veal Scotch eggs, battered fish and chunky chips – while veggies and vegans have their own thoughtfully designed collection of dishes including curries, pies and burger options.

IN THE KNOW

Comfort food BRIDGEWATER TAVERN

Bushman’s Restaurant & Bar

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai +971 4 414 0000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com The go-to place to enjoy high quality, filling fare. The fire-cracker calamari and parmesan truffle fries are willing bedfellows with an ice cold brew.

BUSHMAN’S RESTAURANT & BAR Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort +971 4 567 8304, dubai-palm.anantara.com Prime slabs of succulent Aussie meat are the norm here. However, to enjoy it you’ll be faced with the near-impossible task of forgoing the classic beef and mushroom pie.

The Lion by Nick & Scott

THE LION BY NICK & SCOTT The H Dubai, +971 4 359 2366, hhoteldubai.com Two of the city's top chefs (also of the elsewhere mentioned folly, see 'Made in the UAE, p34) add a touch of class to pub grub staples like the burger, which comes in sourdough topped with veal pancetta.

CARIBBEAN QUEENS Different to almost anywhere else in the eirates, Miss Lily’s (+971 4 354 4074, misslilys.com) brings a true taste of the Caribbean to these shores in the form of authentic Jamaican dishes. Hailing from New York, this is the first international Miss Lily’s outpost, and it’s something of a gem. Vibrant, fun and characterful, the self-styled ‘beach shack-meetsJamaican diner’ boasts a number of must-try dishes including jerk corn grilled with toasted coconut, hot pepper lobster

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FOODIE DISTRICT

Bussola

and a brilliant king crab with Scotch bonnet sauce.

Ting Irie (+971 4 557 5601, tingirie. com) at Downtown Boulevard offers up Jamaican staples in a fun atmosphere courtesy of executive chef Craig Wong (of Jamaican-Chinese heritage), whose CV boasts stints at the multi-Michelinstarred Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck.

BAVARIAN BITES Comforting and delicious, Bavarian cuisine takes meat and potatoes to a new level. Licensed from Munich's Hofbräuhaus, you’ll find Dubai’s outpost inside the JW Marriott Hotel Dubai in Deira (+971 4 607 7588, marriott.com), where it has built up a loyal crowd over 20 years. They come here for the first rate atmosphere and German staples – the outsized sausage platter will slay any killer appetite.

For a healthy take on German cuisine, Brothaus Bakery-Bistro (+971 4 369 0000, steigenberger.com) at Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay has a tasty menu featuring hearty mains, five different types of sausages and sweet treats like sachertorte.

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IN THE KNOW

Perfect pizza EATALY The Dubai Mall, 800 328 259, eataly.ae Eataly’s simple margherita is so good, the tomato sauce so rich and flavoursome, you may well forgo fancy toppings for ever.

BASTA! BY DAVID MYERS Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai, +971 4 512 5522, basta-dubai.com The celebrity chef adds a sprinkle of stardust to the simple pizza here, serving up such soon-to-be classics as ricotta, farm egg and black truffle crisp from the woodfire oven.

DIFC Within Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is Gate Village, where amid the high-end galleries and auction houses are some of Dubai’s best restaurants.

At Zuma (+971 4 425 5560, zumarestaurant.com) the ever outstanding Japanese food is best ordered to share.

As it is at the always buzzing La Petite Maison (+971 4 439 0505, lpmlondon.co.uk/ dubai), which uses produce from local UAE farms in a number of its fabulous creations, all of which have their roots in FrenchMediterranean cooking.

For something more casual BOCA (+971 4 323 1833, boca.ae) is a busy bar/restaurant concept that does Mediterranean dishes to share (the likes of patatas bravas and grilled tiger prawns), preferably with a bottle drawn from its wellstocked cellar.

Creative Indian fare is on the menu at the playful Carnival by Tresind (+971 4 421 8665, carnivalbytresind. com). Expect vibrant, modern interiors and dishes such as pink pani puri and the wonderful beetroot gol gappa.

BUSSOLA The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, +971 4 511 7373, bussoladubai.com An old favourite that serves classic crusts from its al fresco upper deck location beside the sea.

Carnival by Tresind

THE FOOD

GOOD GREEK While Dubai isn't exactly overflowing with Greek restaurants, it does boast some truly excellent ones. Locals will point you towards Elia (+971 4 359 8888, dubaimajestic.com), a cosy restaurant with a lovely glass terrace surrounded by greenery in the somewhat incongruous setting of the Majestic Hotel in Bur Dubai. In the kitchen is Cretan head chef Poppy Kourkoutaki, while charming restaurant manager (and fellow Crete local) Margianna Mavridou heads up the front-of-house team. The menu is divided into Greek classics – the cheese saganaki and chicken souvlaki are standouts – and more contemporary interpretations such as slow-cooked veal cheeks with eggplant purée. Don’t leave without trying the freshly baked carob bread.

From the same team, Mythos Kouzina & Grill (+971 4 399 8166,

mythoskouzina.com) feels like a little slice of Santorini hidden away in JLT’s Armada Bay Hotel. Kitted out like a traditional seaside taverna with whitewashed walls, rustic furniture and light blue banquettes, the simple menu is a mix of traditional dishes such as keftedakia (meatballs) and grilled calamari, together with home-style favourites like moussaka and gigandes (butter beans).

FABULOUS FRENCH For decades Le Cirque was New York’s go-to spot for A-list celebrities and real estate tycoons (including a certain Mr Trump). Now at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Le Cirque (+971 4 372 2444, ritzcarlton) is proving equally popular. The menu, which comes with a hint of Italian inspiration, contains just the right number of dishes to suggest that each has been honed to perfection – the subsequent taste test confirms it. A superb lobster

THIS MONTH'S

Top table

FOODIE DISTRICT

CLUB VISTA MARE Fancy soaking up spectacular views of the cityscape when sitting down to dinner? Club Vista Mare, a Dhs120 million beachfront promenade of restaurants, bars and cafés on Palm Jumeirah, allows you to do just that.

Among the dining venues, each with an al fresco terrace, is Breeze Beach Grill (+971 4 568 3000), a beach grill concept that has a raw bar and deli counter.

There’s also Aji (+971 4 552 0244, aji.ae) – it's pronounced ‘ah-hee’, in case you're wondering – which specialises in Japanese-Peruvian (Nikkei) cuisine. Take your pick from the menu to share among your dinner companions. The wagyu ribeye from the grill is especially tasty.

To try food that might be new to your taste buds, head to Gursha (+971 4 554 2665, gursha-dubai.com).

It's an Ethiopian restaurant, where the food – the likes of spicy lentil stews and curries thick with caramalised onions and spices – is served to share and eaten with your hands, once you've scooped some up with injera, a thin bread.

Aji

CARINE The elsewhere recommended La Petite Maison (see 'Foodie Destinations: DIFC') continues to hog the limelight as far as Dubai's seasoned diners are concerned (it was also voted into the world's top 100 restaurants a short while back) but the less heralded Carine (+971 4 417 9885, dubaigolf.com) is every bit its equal, if not in atmosphere, then certainly with regards to food. As at La Petite Maison, the menu champions French Mediterranean fare, while the chef's work in sourcing standout ingredients is rewarded in faultless dish after faultless dish. A must dine.

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That’s a good deal Seafood fans will fall hook, line and sinker for the Ocean Feast at the fashion-inspired Giardino at Palazzo Versace Dubai. It's your ticket to seafood heaven, with lobster, sushi, mussels, ceviche, oysters, and much more to tempt you, including sizzling scallops from the live cooking stations. Every Wed from 6.30-10.30pm. Dhs250 per person including soft drinks and Dhs125 for children under 12. +971 4 556 8888

risotto easily ranks among Dubai's 'musttry' dishes, while soft-as-butter Dover sole and a chocolate soufflé so light it could float from your table are among the notable highlights.

Regardless of the quality of the food they serve, it’s often difficult for Dubai’s many hotel-run restaurants to shake off that hotel restaurant vibe. So it’s to places like Bistrot Bagatelle (+971 4 354 5035, bagatelledubai.com) we locals go for a hefty side of atmosphere to enjoy with our food at weekends. Let your waiter guide you through the menu highlights, such as a to-die-for black truffle pizza and spicy lobster linguine.

You’ll find it inside the Fairmont Dubai, It's French farmhouse fare in a French farmhouse-style setting at the otherwise refined Bleu Blanc by David Myers (+971 4 512 5533, marriott.com). From a wonderful wood-fired grill centrepiece comes the likes of black angus butcher's cuts, charred king prawns and the

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incredibly good king crab leg – sweet and tender flesh balanced with salty capers. You'll find this slice of Provence at the Renaissance Downtown Hotel.

FRESH FROM THE OCEAN If you’re keen to dine with the of sand between your toes, book a table at Fish Beach Taverna (+971 4 511 7139, fish-dubai.com). With a rustic Mediterranean feel, this restaurant is on the water’s edge at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and is amazingly atmospheric at night.

At Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Geales (+971 4 316 5550, leroyalmeridien-dubai.com), a spin off from the London location, showcases a great range of fresh catches on ice backed up by a menu of comfort food staples such as fish and chips and fish pie, as well as a rather good seafood tagliatelle, that comes laced with plump prawns and chunky cod.

Ask a Top Chef Chef Daniele Marcellini Chef de Cuisine, Bussola

I recommend Ramusake (ramusake.ae) at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai. This dynamic restaurant serves Japanese delicacies with a modern twist. The interior is amazing and the food is always fresh and well presented.

THE FOOD

Lima Dubai

FOODIE DISTRICT

CITY WALK A vibrant mix of cafés, restaurants and unique boutiques, City Walk is at its best at night, when twinkling lights and neon illuminate the streets and purposely graffitied walls – by some of the world’s best known street artists – below. Along with DIFC and d3, it’s also an area that has a few licensed venues independent of hotels, in The Square.

Galvin Dubai (+971 4 590 5444, galvindubai.com) is the first venture outside the UK for Michelin-starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin. They describe their menu as the “best of British, with a Mediterranean Basin flair” and it’s excellent.

Lima Dubai (800 5462 5462, limadubai.com) is a Peruvian hotspot from Virgilio Martinez, the chef behind Central in Lima, Peru, the fifth

best restaurant on the planet according to the coveted World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Headed by his Central protégé, Diego Sanchez, the top dishes here include an incredibly good octopus and corn brûlée.

Also of note is Toro + Ko (+971 4 590 5433, torodubai.com), a Barcelona-inspired tapas restaurant and bar by awardwinning chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette.

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FOODIE DISTRICT

Positano

IN THE KNOW

The best burgers SALT Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim find-salt.com Once a mere food truck, now a sort of beach house, Salt's 'original' is served as two 100% wagyu beef sliders, which simply extends the pleasure of eating it.

BURGER FUEL The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, +971 4 445 8220, burgerfuel.com The concept is 100% New Zealand grass-fed beef, 150g of which is chargrilled to perfection and placed within a wholemeal bun.

MOYLO’S Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 4 388 3140, moylosburgers.com A home-grown, hole-in-the-wall joint on Jumeirah Beach Road, where 100% wagyu beef is used in all its homemade burgers.

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ITALIAN LIKE MAMA MAKES IT JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is home to arguably Dubai’s best Italian – Positano (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com).

The restaurant does the full range of Italian staples exceptionally well, so you don't have to look beyond the likes of the pumpkin tortelli in a rich, velvety butter and sage sauce.

A Dubai birthed concept from Italian expats, Matto (+971 4 444 1335, mattodubai.com) at The Oberoi, Business Bay, indulges its diners in authentic recipes that have been handed down through generations of home cooks.

That means pasta dishes to die for – we recommend the ragù e carciofi (homemade ricotta cheese gnocchi, lamb ragù, and crispy artichokes).

Likewise, you’d expect the Italian restaurant at Palazzo Versace Dubai to be somewhat of a showstopper, and thanks to chef de cuisine Andrea Gaia, that’s exactly what Vanitas (+971 4 556 8820, palazzoversace.ae) is. Gaia’s CV lists many a Michelin-starred restaurant, experience he brings to table.

LA MER This trendy beachfront destination in Jumeirah has a contemporary mixture of restaurants and cafés, shops and attractions set against a scenic backdrop of sand, sea and sun. There are new eateries cropping up all the time but our favourites include Masti - Cocktails & Cuisine (800 62784, mastidubai.com), which has a bold new India vibe, with flavourful sharing plates by award-winning chef Hari Nayak. For authentic French Mediterranean cuisine, head to all-day dining concept LEVEE (+971 4 380 2000, leveecafeandlounge. ae) to try the La Mer risotto, which features scallops, tiger prawns, baby squid and bouillabaisse. The venue has a New York loft style vibe, but you can move to the terrace for beachy views.

SMK – that's Smoked Meat Kitchen to you and I – (+971 50 703 2915, smk-uae.com) serves meat smoked over English oak, and topped off with homemade rubs, created by smoke master Luke Tully. Try the signature brisket bun, which comes with pickled red chilli, adding a fruity quality.

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SUPERB SPANISH With an open kitchen, funky murals and baskets hanging from its high ceilings, Salero Tapas & Bodega (+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates looks more hipster eatery than traditional tapas joint. However, the Spanish staff, led by head chef Oscar Leon, ensure the no-nonsense, garlicsmothered tapas are entirely authentic.

There’s a great selection of tapas to order, such as Galician-style octopus, along with three types of paella.

LOVELY LATIN AMERICAN There is currently fierce competition in Dubai for the tag of the city’s best Latin American restaurant, and in the thick of it is Waka (+971 4 444 1455, waka.ae) at The Oberoi, Dubai. Here, Chef Roberto Segura dishes up authentic Latin American flavours combined with Japanese seasonings and using French techniques. It has some of the best ceviche in the city, but make sure you start with a bowl of Wakamole to share.

Family-friendly eats

Their welcome twist is the use of smoked avocado.

While you’ll be right to love Coya (+971 4 316 9600, coyarestaurant.com) at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai on Jumeirah Beach (in particular, its Arroz Nikkei – a mix of Chilean sea bass, rice, lime and chilli – is fabulous), we also have a thing for the more casual Garden (+971 56 224 0956, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. The chef is Peruvian, the staff are great, the vibe relaxed and the food very good value.

If you're more a fan of a taco, head down Mexico way at Muchahas Mexican Cantina (+971 4 327 5878, muchachasdubai.com) an off-the-radar but hipster hotspot within Holiday Inn Express, Safa.

Over at Grosvenor House in Dubai Marina, pan-Latin restaurant Toro Toro (+971 4 317 6000, torotoro-dubai. com) is overseen by South American chef Richard Sandoval, who delivers authentic, on-note dishes.

Ask a Top Chef Antonio Bitetto Certo Italian Restaurant, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

I love to taste and experience cuisines that are different to mine and one of my favourite places to eat is TOKO Downtown (downtowntoko.com) on Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. Try the miso marinated black cod.

Black Tap

Eating at your hotel can work out expensive, especially if you have a whole family to feed. But fear not: Dubai's restaurants are very family friendly, with myriad options for good value, great quality fare.

WITH LITTLE ONES A gastro pub in a residential community The Lakes, Reform Social & Grill (+971 4 454 2638, reformsocialgrill.ae) offers up a kids' menu full of choice (from baby bowls through to three types of pasta) and lots of outdoor space in which to play.

Parents of unicorn-obsessed kids can sate their appetites at Unicorn Vibes (+971 50 555 0352, unicornvibes.com) in Wasl Vita mall which, colourful cupcakes aside, offers dishes like pink pasta and pink acai bowls. You get the idea.

For creative types, Café Ceramique (+971 4 344 7331,

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cafeceramique.ae) at Town Centre Mall invites kids to paint their own ceramics, while good quality staples like mac and cheese and pizza are served alongside.

WITH BIGGER ONES From NYC comes Black Tap, at Jumeirah Al Naseem (+971 4 422 9904, jumeirah.com) and Rixos Premium JBR

(+971 4 399 9076, premiumdubai.rixos. com), famed for its all-American beef burgers and monster milkshakes piled high with sweet toppings.

If you don't mind getting your hands dirty, Claw BBQ (+971 4 432 2300, clawbbq.com) in Souk Al Bahar is lots of fun. Arrive early in the evening to enjoy the view of The Dubai Fountain on your way out.

Best of the

BRUNCH In the bigger-is-better city of Dubai, the word ‘brunch’ takes on a very different meaning to elsewhere in the world. Here, brunch is not a laid-back midmorning weekend meal to be enjoyed with a friend in a nice café; it is an all-you-can-eat, all-youcan-drink lunchtime feast that involves cuisines from every corner of the globe.

A Dubai brunch isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience – and something everyone needs to try at least once during their holiday

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BEST FOR...

A fun feast What? Girders Garden Brunch Why? Friday brunches just got even more delicious with this 'sharing is caring' brunch, which serves freshly cooked dishes designed to split, such as crispy calamari, lamb rack and homemade gelato. This chic venue recently underwent a revamp, providing all the allure of an al fresco ambience, with the comfort of an air-conditioned indoor setting. Plus, its fun 'pimp your drinks' concept means you can get creative with your beverages by adding your choice of fruit and herbs as resident DJ Pele spins the decks.

When? Fridays from 12.30pm to 4.30pm.

Where? JA Ocean View Hotel Dubai. +971 4 814 5599.

How much? Dhs249 per person.

BEST FOR...

Non-stop action What? Dukesy Family Brunch Why? Back with a bang this month, and being launched by local radio personality Kris Fade, the Dukesy Brunch is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Grab a seat al fresco and lap up the beachfront views before tucking into the tasty food from the live cooking stations while the little ones get stuck into the self-serve buffet. You'll have plenty of time to savour your dishes, thanks to all the kids' entertainment on offer: little brunchers get complimentary access to the Dukesy Kids Club (for ages 5 to 12), which has a heavy focus on edutainment. The very best bit, in our opinion, however, is access to the lazy river, so your little adventurers can strip down to their swimmies and dive in for some wet and wild fun.

When? Fridays from 1pm to 4pm.

(From 18 Jan).

Where? West 14th. +971 4 455 1101.

How much? From Dhs315 to Dhs399 depending on the drinks package.

Dhs160 for children aged 6-12.

THE FOOD

BEST FOR...

A chilled-out vibe

BEST FOR...

The travel hungry

What? The Weekend Brunch at Summersalt Why? For a brunch experience with a full-on holiday vibe, luxury beach club Summersalt is your go-to. Ideal for those who like to feel the sun on their skin, this chic affair offers you access to the pool and beach, with delicious food (the restaurant specialises in modern Asia fare) and signature drinks created by the venue's skilled mixologists, as well as resident DJs keeping the party alive.

Soak up the view of the glistening pool, take a stroll along the pristine stretch of sand and listen to the waves lapping the shore.

When? Friday and Saturday from noon to 4pm.

Where? Jumeirah Al Naseem. +971 4 366 7680.

How much? Dhs577 per person inclusive of pool and beach access, with a three-course set menu and unlimited selected beverages.

Dhs35 per selected drink during Happy Hour (after 4pm). Advance booking is required.

What? Wanderlust Brunch Why? Embark on a culinary journey around the world at this popular Friday brunch, which takes place inside the tallest five-star hotel on the planet. Featuring more than 10 live stations, book a table on the outdoor terrace for great views of Business Bay and let this sumptuous spread satisfy your inner foodie.

When? Fridays from 1pm-4pm.

Where? JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. +971 4 414 3000.

How much? Dhs425 per person, including food and house drinks.

BEST FOR...

A grown-up affair What? The Seagrill Bistro Brunch Why? Gorgeous views, delicious Mediterranean food and a laidback vibe – this adults-only brunch is ideal for those who don't want to be disturbed by the pitter patter of tiny feet. The sharing style food menu is served to the table, with highlights including the mushroom fusilli pasta with goat's cheese and truffle oil for main and baked Alaska for afters. Soak up the sunshine as you sip a refreshing drink, such as the chamomile and passion fruit iced tea. Afterwards you can make a whole day of it by unwinding on the beach and taking a dip in the swimming pool.

When? Friday from 12.30pm to 4pm.

Where? Fairmont The Palm. +971 4 457 3457.

How much? From Dhs345 to Dhs495 per person, depending on the drinks package. There's a postbrunch happy hour from 4pm to 7pm in Ba Restaurant and Lounge, offering drinks and bites in a super stylish setting.

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Souk Madinat Jumeirah

The Shops

There’s no shortage of retail therapy in Dubai, from mega malls to edgy concept stores and traditional souks. The main malls are open until late. The Dubai Mall, for instance, is open from 10am to midnight, every day of the week – enjoy!

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THE SHOPS HUGO, The Dubai Mall

MEGA MALLS Supersizing the retail scene since the early noughties, the city’s huge shopping malls invite you to slip on your comfiest sneakers and pound the marbled walkways. With more than 1,300 stores (and counting), The Dubai Mall (800 38 224 6255, thedubaimall. com) is the grande dame of the city’s shopping scene, having recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, and offering fashion and entertainment in epic proportions. Its luxury shopping district, Fashion Avenue, is a high-end repository of style with more than 150 fabulous shopping and dining experiences to delight. Browse the plush displays and shop for collectible books at the newly-opened Maison Assouline, which is nestled amid the likes of Dior, Chanel, and Fendi, before pausing to ponder your style inspiration at one of the eateries dotted around.

For haute beauty buys, Perfumery & Co is the place to go for fine

fragrances. Plump for a personalised consultation for expert advice on fragrances, skincare and make-up to suit your personality and lifestyle.

After restocking your dressing table, click your heels together à la Dorothy and transport yourself to Level Shoes for designer heels, before loading up on even more luxury labels at anchor brands Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette Dubai, which has a dedicated glamour area showcasing the wares of coveted designers such as Carolina Herrera and Jason Wu. Another power player, Mall of the Emirates (+971 4 409 9000, malloftheemirates.com) has a handsfree shopping service, where you can drop off your bulging bags at designated points and have them delivered to your hotel. It'll free you up to continue exploring its four floors, anchored by ‘absolutely fabulous’ department store Harvey Nichols – Dubai and the high-end Fashion Dome.

Once you're all shopped out, you can

John Varvatos, The Dubai Mall

Mall of the Emirates

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Dubai Festival City

hit the slopes at Ski Dubai, or enjoy a five-star snack menu at Vox Cineplex' THEATRE by Rhodes.

Dubai Creek has its very own mega mall experience at Dubai Festival City (800 332, dubaifestivalcitymall. com) where mid-range brands rub shoulders with the Singapore-born department store Robinsons. Here, you’ll find homeware goodies from the UK’s John Lewis and a collection of exclusive fashion labels. Located on the waterfront with a dedicated promenade, take time out from browsing this mall’s 400 stores for a dhow boat ride or to watch the nightly fire, light and water show.

At the other end of the city, fronting a vibrant waterfront residential area, Dubai Marina Mall (+971 4 348 4848, dubaimarinamall.com) is a no brainer if you’re looking to shop at a more leisurely pace. It's compact compared to the city's larger retail havens, yet is peppered with a trendy selection of high-street brands and a chilled

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collection of restaurants, many with outdoor terrace seating ideal for a lingering lunch overlooking the water.

The only themed mega mall in the city, Ibn Battuta Mall (+971 4 362 1900, ibnbattutamall.com) pays architectural homage to the travels of the legendary Arab explorer of the same name with a succession of interlinked spaces reflecting global culture, from China to India. Wander through the dedicated exhibition before letting loose in the 400-plus stores, hitting the lanes of the busy bowling alley or catching a movie.

MINI MALLS Not enough time (or patience) to trawl the jumbo malls? Dubai’s growing community of suburban mini malls will hit the spot. Kick-start your mall crawl opposite Burj Al Arab on Jumeirah Beach Road at the aptly named The Mall (+971 4 348 4848, themall.co.ae), which is home to a coterie of 55 handselected retailers, including French fashion brand Escales, luxury leather

HOMEGROWN LABEL

Nüd The Label

Make a grand entrance and shine your way through the night with Nüd's new Midnight Collection. Founded by UAE-based designer, Nada Soliman, the sparkling set exudes a glamourous ultra-cool feel that will have you rocking confidence and fabulous glam all night long. @nudthelabel

THE SHOPS brand Native and Suit Express, where you can get a made-to-measure suit whipped up in just five days. Further along the road, a stone’s throw from Jumeirah Corniche, is Sunset Mall (+971 4 330 7333, sunsetmall.ae). Be sure to pay a visit to Rivaage, which plays host to international designers such as Vera Wang and Vivienne Westwood.

With more than 140 stores to explore, the Italian Renaissance themed Mercato Mall (+971 4 344 4161, mercatoshoppingmall.com) is another top stop-off. Label lovers should check out pre-owned designerwear store Bagatelle, while there's also plenty of popular high-street stores for a fast fix.

Hugging a corner spot on the adjacent Al Wasl Road is the boutique Galleria Mall (+971 4 344 4434, galleriamall.ae) at which hip stores, such as trendy Californian beachwear label Beach Bunny and Saucettte (the kidswear offshoot of successful local brand Sauce), cater to a well-heeled clientele. It's also home to an open-air VOX Cinema in the cooler months.

If you're passing by Palm Jumeirah, Golden Mile Galleria (+971 4 390 9999, goldenmilegalleria.com) calls with its curated selection of stores, cafés and restaurants along the elegantly arched walkway. Fitting for its location, it stocks a good selection of beachwear. Stop

by Ajmal Perfumes for some oud.

AN OPEN-AIR RETAIL AFFAIR A growing number of al fresco shopping spots add outdoor character to the retail scene, from plush European-style boulevards to artisan markets selling handicrafts you can't find anywhere else. At La Mer (800 637 227, lamerdubai.ae), stylish boutiques – think Via Rodeo, Trina Turk and Beach Bunny – rub shoulders with cool cafés along a strip of golden sand just off Jumeirah Beach Road.

Over at Dubai Creek, Al Seef (800 637227, alseef.ae) delivers a cultural vibe with its setting inspired by a traditional Arabian neighbourhood.

Here, you can pick up everything from high-end fashion to Emirati handicrafts.

LOCAL DESIGNER Aiisha Ramadan From turning fabric scraps into doll dresses as a child, to founder of her own couture label (born in the UAE in 2007), Aiisha Ramadan counts A-listers including Charlize Theron and Jennifer Lopez as fans. Her label, AIISHA speaks a tale of diversity that champions her own personal style and spontaneous attitude, which shines through in every collection. aiisha.com

Golden Mile Galleria

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taxi ride out of town, the Dubai Outlet Mall (+971 4 423 4666, dubaioutletmall. com) is a repository for previous season style. Bag an affordable new wardrobe from high-street names like Aldo, Esprit, Monsoon and Mango, with the odd designer find.

If you’re more a fan of Paris Fashion Week than Primark, The Outlet Village (+971 4 317 3999, theoutletvillage. ae) in Jebel Ali is your best bet. Three department stores and more than 125 top brands including Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Juicy Couture and Superdry can be found inside its Tuscan inspired interior. Stylish piazza cafés add to the Italian vibe.

If you have a soft spot for French fashion, check out the So Chic (sochic. ae) boutique at Home and Soul on Al Wasl Road. Raid the rails bursting with pre-loved designer clothes and accessories sourced from the best wardrobes of Dubai.

Similarly, RETOLD (shopretold.com) on Umm Suqeim Road is brimming with pre-loved steals from Dubai’s labelloving residents.

O Concept Store

STYLE SETTER Anastasia Raikova Tagged as the mysterious fashion empress of the Middle East, Dubaibased fashion designer Anastasia, also known as Miss Asmaraïa, keeps on wowing fashion connoisseurs with her enigmatic and quirky take on classic Middle Eastern fashion, combining reverence and respect for tradition with modern luxurious aesthetics. @asmaraia_me

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For a more modern feel, City Walk (+971 4 317 3999, citywalk.ae) has a profusion of funky designer-centric boutiques such as Karl Lagerfeld, Michael Kors, and Whistles, among others, as well as upmarket Parisian department store Le BHV Marais.

Nearby on Al Wasl Road, BoxPark (+971 4 317 3999, boxpark.ae) draws a hip crowd to its shipping containers, housing contemporary fashion from the likes of Urbanist and OnePiece.

At the Dubai Marina end of town, The Beach at JBR (+971 80 063 7227, thebeach.ae) blends boho chic market action with holiday-accessoriesoriented stores, including Sauce On-Sea, bordered by an esplanade packed with family-friendly eateries and attractions.

BARGAIN HUNTERS While the discount store phenomenon hasn’t quite made it to Dubai, there are still bargains to be had. A 30-minute

COOL CONCEPT STORES It’s hardly surprising that, with around 200 nationalities residing in Dubai, international design influences are making their mark on the city with a growing cadre of cool concept stores.

Popular creative hub Dubai Design District (d3), which is dedicated to startups, naturally has its finger on the pulse with d3 Collective (+971 4 554 3540, dubaidesigndistrict.com), a premier platform for established and emerging names, such as Osheq, DRESSADDICT

by Artem & Victor and Taupe.

Also there, you'll find the achingly hip The Cartel (+971 55 725 1189, thecartel.ae). Founded by May Barber, it champions emerging and talented designers from around the world, including exclusives from international fashion brands.

Equally edgy is O Concept Store (+971 4 345 5557, oconceptstore.ae) in Jumeirah, which combines fashion and

THE SHOPS

MUST-SHOP

CHUFY LUXURY COLLECTION Contemporary flair meets traditional craft in Sofía Sanchez's new line of ready-to-wear. Inspired by Dubai's vibrant spirit and adventurous nature, every thread is a modern take on Emirati bedouin heritage and its rich artistic culture, with UAE’s national animal, the Arabian oryx, as the main inspiration. chufy.com

art and attracts young and passionate designers, artists and collectors from all over the world.

The recently-opened The Edit in Al Wasl (+971 4 332 0324, theeditdubai. com) stocks choice ready-to-wear from cult clothing brands, including Paper London, Acler and AQ/AQ, plus statement jewellery, accessories and beauty products. There's also a fab coffee bar downstairs and pop-ups, and art exhibitions upstairs.

Following 15 years in Jeddah, multibrand concept store Lilis has opened its doors at City Walk (+971 55 95 67 026, lilisboutiques.com), offering a curated selection of pieces from acclaimed designers from around the world, with a focus on bohemian luxe through a modest lens.

With a flagship store at City Walk II, Bambah (+971 55 224 1538, bambah. com) is the place to go for statement pieces guaranteed to inject some fun into your wardrobe – think generous ruffles, oversized bows and colourful

floral prints. The brainchild of UAE-based designer Maha Abdul Rasheed, it's easy to see why stars such as Emma Roberts are fans.

HOMEGROWN HEROES The region’s young design guns are taking the fashion world by storm and many homegrown Emirati and Middle Eastern brands are thriving.

Haute couture luminary Rami Al Ali rules the regional high-end fashion roost from his Al Wasl Road villa (+971 4 394 5607, ramialali.com). A Paris Fashion Week regular who is known for his ultra-feminine gowns, you can book a personal consultation at his atelier or check out his ready-to-wear line at Harvey Nichols – Dubai.

Another respected designer, Furne One launched his avant garde label Amato Couture in the UAE in 2002 and has an A-list following, including Heidi Klum, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez, among others. You can shop the standalone Amato Luxe boutique located at

The Edit

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Dubai Design District (+971 4 443 2449, amatoluxe.com) – think floral-inspired bomber jackets, billowing dresses and ethereal sweeping lace jackets in a pastel palette.

The local branch of French fashion institute Esmod Dubai is responsible for a wave of fresh graduate talent and you'll be pleased to learn that it has its own dedicated retail outlet, Pôlette Concept Store (+971 50 879 6518, @polette.dubai), at City Walk. It's the only retail start-up platform in the world to launch university students’ fashion brands. What's more, it continues to stocks pieces from celebrated alumni, including Canella Hostal, so shopping there is a little like picking up the wearable version of a future Picasso.

More homegrown talent is in favour with the A-list, with bold designs by Dubai-based Madiyah Al Sharqi receiving the nod of approval by actress Sofia Vergara, among others. Make a beeline for her latest collection, which

is available at Symphony in The Dubai Mall (+971 4 310 6904, bysymphony.com).

Nathalie Trad (+971 50 483 4202, nathalietrad.com) is another one to watch. Born in Beirut and raised in Dubai, this innovative designer, who was mentored by Proenza Schouler, creates innovating, sculptural, wearable works of art. You can find her pieces at Bloomingdale's at The Dubai Mall.

BESPOKE BUYS Few of us can afford a trip to Savile Row and Dubai’s community of nimblefingered tailors and seamstresses is a great alternative. Local fabric stores are in abundance and you can have a made-to-measure suit or dress whipped up in just a few days. The traditional go-to areas for sharp tailoring include Karama, where Dream Girls (+971 4 337 7287) is a long-standing favourite among ladies who lunch.

Homegrown bespoke menswear brand, Benjamin Siggers (+971 4 518

TOP BUY

GILES X ASPINAL Aspinal of London's new collaboration with Giles Deacon has dropped at Aspinal's flagship store at The Dubai Mall.

Bringing fun and colour to high-end couture, you can take your pick from a wide array of fabulous handbags, clutches, silk scarves, and small leathergoods embellished with Giles' hand-drawn illustrations. aspinaloflondon.com

CITY WALK EATERIES

Light bites

Sikka Café

IZU Bakery

Secret Garden

Teaming mouth-watering Emirati flavours with a mélange of local Indian and Persian cuisines, this eclectic bistro embodies the true essence of Arabian hospitality.

Lounge back to a tranquil ambience brimming with history and take a sip of the infamous Karak tea, crafted to compliment all dishes. sikkadubai.ae

Aromatic coffee, fresh bread and heavenly viennoiserie, what better way to start your day? IZU Bakery has captured the best of multicultural breakfast practices in the world, creating a friendly next-door-neighbour atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. Gather your loved ones and be sure to enjoy their signature Spanish omelette. lebhvmarais.ae

Colours of spring bloom in every nook and corner of this enchanting hangout. Immerse yourself in the sugary nirvana of more than 40 delightful cakes and desserts, as well as their very own signature mocktails and artisan coffees. Try the delicious combo of the Dulcet Nougat Cake and Marhaba, it's a match made in heaven. lovesecretgarden.com

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THE SHOPS 2669, benjaminsiggers.com), has mastered the art of perfecting the details that make a quality suit. Teaming traditional Italian style with personalised craftsmanship, these visiting tailors can come to you for a fitting.

Alternatively, you can follow in the footsteps of tennis legend Roger Federer, who has had an outfit whipped up by the master tailoring team at Threads & Tailors (+971 4 347 7719, threadsandtailors.com) in Al Barsha, which specialises in made-to-measure suits and shirts at reasonable prices.

New kid on the block, Black Amber Dubai (+971 4 4429315, black-amber. com), in Dubailand, promises top-notch tailoring for gentlemen, plus ready-towear clothing under one roof.

Lastly, custom-shirt store Bombay Shirt Company, in Central Park Towers, DIFC (+971 4 240 0778, bombayshirts.com) lets you select every detail, from the fabric to the thread and the buttons, with precise measurements taken to ensure a perfect fit.

Black Amber Dubai

SOUK SPECTACULAR The emirate is famous for its atmospheric souks, which are a treasure trove for everything from gold jewellery to aromatic spices. Put your bargaining skills to the test (it’s a sure thing) at the glittering Dubai Gold Souk on the Deira side of Dubai Creek. A hub for gold traders since the 1930s, its 300 or so shops are thronged by tourists seeking a gilded buy (Arabic name necklaces are a popular choice). It's easy to arrive by taxi, but if you really want to ‘go local’, hop aboard a motorised abra at Bur Dubai Abra Station and set sail for Deira Old Souk Abra Station (operating from 6am to midnight, Dhs1 per person per trip, see rta.ae).

Close by, the blink and you’ll miss it Spice Souk is home to a fragrant clutch of market stalls fronted by hessian sacks overflowing with aromatic spices. Stock up on the best Iranian saffron, the Emirati spice mix bezar, as well as pungent dried local lemons to add a citrusy note to a stew or tagine. For a fragrant buy

of a different kind, head to the Perfume Souk, which is great for getting your hands on the traditional Arabian scent, oud, as well as potent essential oils.

Dubai Textile Souk, on the opposite bank of Dubai Creek, is a fabric nirvana for shoppers with an eye on bespoke tailoring. The colourful souk has everything from swathes of sari silk to bolts of embroidered cotton.

For a more polished experience, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah (+971 4 366 8888, jumeirah.com), which has been designed in the style of an authentic Arabian marketplace, and explore the labyrinthine lanes lined with barrows and stalls selling souvenirs, jewellery, oud and other trinkets.

Similarly, Souk Al Bahar (+971 4 362 7011/12, soukalbahar.ae) in Downtown Dubai has over 100 shops, many of which are situated on the waterfront promenade on the fringes of Burj Lake, offering everything from carpets to handicrafts, jewellery, art and perfume.

LABEL LOVE Three Fifty Nine Depicting one less degree than perfection, this edgy clothing brand

by Marwa Sayed defies the ordinary in favour of bold individuality.

Founded in 2015, the contemporary readyto-wear line combines striking artistic prints with modern silhouettes, producing daring pieces of wearable art. threefiftynine.co

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WaterCooled Dubai

The Activities

Sleep is overrated. With all that Dubai has to offer, we say see and do as much as you can during your stay and save those zzz’s for the flight home 54

THE ACTIVITIES

At the Top, Burj Khalifa The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk

FEEL ON TOP OF THE WORLD No prizes for guessing what is Dubai’s number one visitor attraction. At 456 metres above sea level, the observation decks at the world’s tallest tower, At the Top, Burj Khalifa may not invite you all the way to the tip – that would be the radio mast at 828 metres – but they’re high enough to give you a head rush. Step inside the high-speed elevator and be transported in the blink of an eye to the entry point on Level 124, where you can zoom in on the world below through high-powered telescopes, before moving up another level for panoramic views of the everdeveloping city. At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY ticket holders can climb further towards the clouds to Level 148, home to the world’s highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace (it's 555 metres

high, in case you were wondering).

At the Top opens for sunrise sessions from 5.30am. Advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls.

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

ALL THE FUN OF THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN Lights, camera, action… Now just add water. The world's tallest performing fountain, The Dubai Fountain is the definitive crowd-pleaser. It has thousands of robotic jets hidden beneath the 30-acre Burj Khalifa lake, which shoot water 500 feet into the air – the equivalent of a 50-storey building – while colour projectors work their magic. The mesmerising performances are set to a rotating musical repertoire featuring the recorded likes of Andrea Bocelli and Lionel Richie, as well as Arabic and world music. Whether you’re seeing it for the first or the 50th

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

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IMAGINE

time, it’s sure to give you goosebumps.

Shows take place daily from 1pm1.30pm (1.30pm-2pm on Fri.) and every 30 minutes from 6pm to midnight.

Plump for a prime viewing spot from a lakeside restaurant table or catch it for free from the Waterfront Promenade.

Those after a premium view can step onto the floating The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk for a stroll past all the action – you’ll be just nine metres away from the jets at its closest point. Open from 5pm-11pm daily. Alternatively, you can set sail on the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride for the ultimate view from an abra.

Operating daily from 5.45pm-11.30pm (the last boat departs half an hour prior to closing). Visit burjkhalifa.ae.

For fountain fun on a smaller scale, the IMAGINE light, water and pyrotechnics spectacular at Dubai

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Festival City is sure to delight. Giant aqua screens, surround sound, lasers and the largest water screen projection in the world combine with 30 fountains to create a breathtaking display.

Showing daily from 7.30pm-11pm.

DELVE INTO HISTORY Peel back the shiny sweetie wrapper that defines modern-day Dubai and discover the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Step back in time with a visit to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (+971 4 353 9090, dubaiculture.gov.ae) on the bank of Dubai Creek. In the early 1900s the area was populated by affluent merchants and traders and bordered by Al Fahidi Fort, which now houses Dubai Museum. Its collection of beautifully preserved traditional wind tower homes have evolved into

museums, art galleries and cultural spaces connected by a maze of winding alleyways and quiet courtyards.

Over in Jumeirah, Etihad Museum (etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.ae) offers a review of contemporary history by telling the story of the 1971 formation of the United Arab Emirates through a compelling curation of photographs, films, documents, artefacts and interactive displays. Located next to Union House, the striking structure resembles a manuscript, with seven tapering columns representing the pens used to sign the unification agreement.

Open daily from 8am-10pm. Dhs25 for adults, Dhs10 for students and free for children under five.

At Dubai Frame (dubaiframe.ae) in Zabeel Park, you’ll be guided through a multimedia exhibition charting the

THE ACTIVITIES

ASK A LOCAL Hiral Kapadia, designer When visitors come to see me, I always take them to AquaFun inflatable waterpark at Jumeirah Beach Residence, which has over 70 obstacles to clamber over. I can't swim so I don't get involved, but it always gets a thumbs up from guests. (It's for ages six and over.) aquafun.ae

city’s rapid transformation from fishing village to modern metropolis, before scaling the 150-metre-high observation deck, and then exiting via a swirl tunnel depicting the future of the city. Open daily from 9am-9pm. Dhs50 for adults and Dhs20 for children (aged 3-12).

Under threes go free.

Dubai also has a thriving art scene that runs the full gamut of styles and influences. Hip art hub Alserkal Avenue (+971 50 556 9797, alserkalavenue.ae), in Al Quoz, comprises more than 60 art, design and creative spaces, including galleries The Third Line (+971 4 341 1367, thethirdline.com) and Grey Noise (+971 4 379 0764, greynoise.org) Street art initiatives are also adding new creative impetus to the city’s public spaces. Check out the Dubai Walls project (dubaiwalls.com) at City Walk where the work of 16 renowned artists including Ron English, Nick Walker and Blek Le Rat take pride of place. Similarly,

the Dubai Street Museum project on 2nd December Street in Satwa draws on themes from the UAE’s history and heritage for an eye-catching stroll.

BE A CULTURE VULTURE For a high-brow evening out, it doesn’t get much more glamorous than tickets to Dubai Opera (+971 4 440 8888, dubaiopera.com), which offers an impressive line-up of local and international operatic, ballet and musical productions. The building itself is an architectural wonder, with its dhowshaped design by Janus Rostock a stylish tribute to Dubai’s maritime history.

Another must-see is the emirate’s first in-residence show, La Perle by Dragone (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com). Staged inside a purpose-built, state-of-the-art aqua theatre in Al Habtoor City, the performance is awash with aerial feats and cutting-edge technology – it's La Perle

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TOP PICK

Dubai Miracle Garden Disney lovers are in for a treat as the iconic Mickey Mouse, joined by the rest of his gang – Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, Pluto, Goofy and those cheeky triplets Huey, Dewey, and Louie – fill up Dubai Miracle Garden's seventh season with the magic of childhood 58

charm. Breaking the Guinness World Record for the Tallest Topiary Sculpture, this garden in Dubailand invites you to gaze up the 18-metre-tall structure and let the thousands of plants and flowers brighten your day. Plus, the little ones can bounce around on the trampolines, with in-house

staff on hand to make sure they stay safe. Once the tummy rumbles, grab a bite from any of the various dinning venues and enjoy a meal amid the blooms.

Tickets are priced at Dhs50 for adults and Dhs40 for children. Entry is free for those aged two and under. dubaimiraclegarden.com

THE ACTIVITIES

HIT THE TRACK

the only place in Dubai where it rains indoors. Performances take place at 7pm and 9.30pm Tue to Fri, and at 4pm and 7pm on Sat.

*Closed for essential maintenance from 12 Jan until 7 Feb 2019

Supercars are a common sight in Dubai – even the SPLASH AROUND police force has a Bugatti Veyron and a Lamborghini Belly flops and swan dives are par for Aventador, among other cars, the course at Dubai’s gold standard in its fleet – and motoring water parks, with fun for water babies fans will be pleased to learn of all ages. The latest on the scene is that you can do more than Laguna Waterpark at La Mer (800 637 snap a selfie next to these 227, lagunawaterpark.com), which gleaming vehicles. At Dubai has four different zones – Splash, Slide, Autodrome (+971 4 806 2220, Surf and Relax – and all manner of dubaiautodrome.com) you hair-raising rides to hurl yourself down. can slip behind the wheel The central Water Slide Tower is at of a Ferrari 458 Challenge, the heart of the action, with a host of Formula DXB single seater or cool attractions, including five rides, Audi R8 V10, among other plus a family zone, lazy river, and pool supercars. Track experiences lounge with swim-up juice bar. The star combine classroom and attraction, however, is the WaveOz 180 behind-the-wheel training Florider – the first of its kind in the region from a professional racing driver, before you’re let loose Aquaventure Waterpark to do a few laps on your own.

The complex is also home to Dubai Kartdrome, which has an indoor and outdoor circuit suitable for those aged seven and above. The 1.2-kilometre-long outdoor circuit is designed for more confident drivers who can definitely test their mettle on its challenging 17 corners, tunnel and bridge and take on the fierce competition.

Simply arrive and drive.

– where you can tackle the competitionlevel wave on a body board or stand-up board. Open daily from 10am-8pm.

Tickets cost from Dhs125 on the door.

Located in front of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi Water Park* (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) was first on the scene, however, it remains a popular choice with over 30 rides and attractions. From kid-friendly slides and the relaxing lazy river to the truly terrifying Jumeirah Sceirah (which propels you to speeds of 80 km/h), it’s wet and wild all the way. Open daily from 10am-6pm.

Over on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure Waterpark (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai delivers 17 hectares of H2O action. Dare to make

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Bluewaters

the dramatic descent that is the Leap of Faith, jump in a two-person inner tube and journey through the Tower of Neptune to a shark-filled lagoon, or relax in a private, poolside cabana.

Open daily from 10am to sunset.

In Jebel Ali, Legoland Water Park (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) at Dubai Parks and Resorts is designed especially for families with kids aged two to 12.

Slide, splash and swim through 15 Lego-inspired water slides, raft rides and pools. You can even construct your own Lego raft to help you on your way.

Summer opening hours are 10am-6pm daily.

For something on a smaller scale, head to JBR where you can find AquaFun (aquafun.ae) inflatable water park, which challenges you to run, jump and slide your way past 74 games without falling off. Open daily from 9am7pm. From Dhs150, or Dhs120 for kids.

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BEACH AND POOL ACTION Want to feel the sand between your toes? If you’re not staying on the beach, or simply fancy a change of scenery, there are plenty of places to head to.

The emirate's newest stretch of beach, La Mer (meraas.ae) in Jumeirah 1, features more than 130 shops, cafés and restaurants flanked by 2.5 kilometres of sandy coastline. Paddle by the shore before grabbing a bite at one of the numerous licensed eateries.

Kite Beach (kitebeach.ae) at the Umm Suqeim end of Jumeirah Beach Road is a firm favourite among the kite-surfing fraternity (lessons available), with a community vibe centred around a clutch of on-trend cafés and family-friendly facilities, such as XDubai Skatepark and XPark Jr. adventure park.

For a dash of glamour, The Beach at JBR (+971 4 317 3999, thebeach.ae) is sure to appeal, with its meandering walkway bisecting a profusion of cafés,

IN THE KNOW

Bluewaters The site of the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai (which is currently under construction), this man-made island oasis off the coast of Dubai Marina has opened the drawbridge to visitors. It is home to a trio of nongaming resorts – Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, The Residences at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai (serviced apartments) and Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai – that have plenty to offer. Dine at Gordon Ramsay's Hell’s Kitchen, be pampered at Qua Spa, and chill at private beach club Cove Beach.

For entertainment, check out the line-up at The Rotunda Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, a 500seat venue that hosts diverse acts.

restaurants and shops and a stunning stretch of sand with a premium view of the under-construction Ain Dubai Ferris wheel located on the upcoming Bluewaters Island development.

If you're more of a beach club devotee, there are plenty of exclusive spots to chill at, including the latest on the scene, Cove Beach on Bluewaters Island (+971 4 379 1194, covebeach. com). Laze on an oversized daybed by the shore or the pool, grab a bite at the restaurant or order a sharing dish from the Sea Lounge for the perfect beach day. From Dhs100 to Dhs700, depending on bed type and the day of the week.

Open daily from 11am-3am.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

RIDE THE WAVES Watersports fans are spoilt for choice in the UAE. Get out on the deep blue and enjoy the best views of the skyline on a jet-ski tour. Jet Ski Sightseeing Tours (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com) invite you to follow your guide on a safe, set route across the warm Arabian waters on the latest Sea-Doo jet-skis either as a driver or a passenger – you can take turns with a friend (each jet-ski can accommodate two people). A Go-Pro camera can be rented and fitted to your jet-ski for an additional cost.

Or, dip your toes into the maritime lifestyle at WaterCooled Dubai (+971 4 814 5555) at The Resort, Jebel Ali Beach, which offers everything from wakeboarding to kitesurfing, dinghy sailing and kayaking, led by a team of Royal Yachting Association accredited instructors. From Dhs75 per person for kayaking and SUP.

MEET THE MARINE LIFE Dunk your head beneath the surface to discover more cool attractions.

Home to over 65,000 marine animals, The Lost Chambers Aquarium (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai will

62

enchant visitors of all ages. It has over 20 themed exhibits housing marine creatures from all over the world. Book a behind-the-scenes tour or be brave and dive with sharks. Open daily from 10am-10pm.

Besides its retail pull, The Dubai Mall is home to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (advance booking +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls), one of the largest suspended aquariums on the planet. Marvel at more than

70 different marine species including some 300 sharks and rays, or rent some scuba gear and sidle up alongside the inhabitants of the 10-million-litre tank (no diving experience required). Meanwhile, the zoo offers a sneak peek at the habits of other water-loving creatures, such as penguins and giant spider crabs; but the star of the show is the mean-looking 750kg King Croc. Open daily from 10am to midnight.

See dolphins and seals showcase their skills at Dubai Dolphinarium (+971

THE ACTIVITIES

The Beach at JBR

4 336 9773, dubaidolphinarium.ae), in Creek Park. The 45-min indoor shows see these intelligent mammals dance, juggle, play ball, jump through hoops and even create their own masterpiece.

The venue also hosts an exotic bird show and has a fun mirror maze to fumble your way through. Dolphin and seal shows take place from Mon to Sat at 11am, 2pm and 6pm.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Despite its built-up city rep, Dubai is home to a happy handful of green spaces. In our opinion, one of the best is Zabeel Park, equivalent in size to 45 football fields, and home to brilliant kids' play areas, the striking Dubai Frame (where you can take in incredible views of old and new Dubai), and many a barbecue and picnic area. Let the lifesize figures at the Dinosaur Park transport you to the Jurassic era and, when the sun sets, Dubai Garden Glow will dazzle you with its illuminated installations that wash the park with vibrant colour.

Over in Dubailand , adjacent to Dubai Miracle Garden (see Top Pick on

page 67) is Dubai Butterfly Garden (+971 4 422 8902, dubaibutterflygarden.com), which is home to thousands of species of butterfly housed in temperaturecontrolled domes. Stroll through their habitat as the insects flutter around you.

Open daily from 9am-6pm. Dhs55 (free for those aged two and under).

The Yard (theyarddubai.ae) in Al Khawaneej, is the place to go for some tasty bites from the food trucks at Last Exit D89 and to stroll along the shaded walking trails. Throw a coin in the wishing well, check out the street art and let the little ones pet the farm animals.

Romantics can write a message on a padlock and fix it to the railings of Promise Bridge.

SWING INTO ACTION Most of the world’s golfing greats have teed off on Dubai’s flawless fairways and the emirate is recognised as a major golf destination. The first all-grass championship golf course in the Middle East when it opened in 1988, Emirates Golf Club (+971 4 380 1234, dubaigolf. com) remains a firm favourite among

Dubai old timers and club-toting visitors.

Annual host of the European Tour’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic, it has two 18-hole par 72 championship courses, a challenging Par 3 Academy Course, and an iconic clubhouse inspired by the shape of a traditional Bedouin tent.

The Majlis course has open horizons and stretches of sand, along with more traditional bunkers, while the 2005 Nick Faldo-redesigned course has a wadi (valley) running through it. The Faldo is also the only 18-hole course in the region to offer night golf. Green fees (rack rates) cost from Dhs550 for 9 holes on the Majlis course and from Dhs410 for 9 holes on the Faldo course (before 4pm).

Rates for night golf start from Dhs295.

(Peak rates applicable on Fri and Sat and UAE public holidays).

Swanky residential community and golf club Jumeirah Golf Estates (+971 4 818 2000, jumeirahgolfestates.com) has a duo of Greg Norman-designed championship courses, Fire and Earth, inspired by the great parkland courses of Europe and North America. The Earth course is home to the annual DP World

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GET A FALCON’S EYE VIEW A sure way to make the folks back home green with envy is to tick skydiving off the bucket list. At Skydive Dubai (skydivedubai.ae) you can leap out of an aeroplane, tethered to a professional, for a tandem skydiving experience over Palm Jumeirah (Dhs2,199). It’s the best vantage point from which to see the scale of the fronded island – unless you’ve got your eyes closed. The jump window opens at 10am, with the first plane usually taking to the skies 60 minutes later (weather permitting).

Alternatively, for an equally memorable jump over the emirate's golden dunes, head to the Desert Campus drop zone.

Seawings (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com) offers scenic flights over iconic landmarks for a bird's-eye view of the city. Sign up for the Dubai Creek Silver tour, a 40-minute ‘dock to dock’ seaplane excursion over the historic Dubai Creek, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and more. Timings depend on the tour you select. Or, take a helicopter ride (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) for a one-of-akind perspective of the city skyline and make the most of the incredible photo opportunities along the way.

If you simply haven’t the stomach for flying through the air, iFly Dubai (+971 4 231 6292, theplaymania.com) offers

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an exhilarating flying experience in its indoor wind tunnel. Open from noon to 10pm Sun to Wed, noon to 11pm on Thur, and 10am-11pm on Fri and Sat.

THEME PARK THRILLS Thrill-seekers, screamers and scaredycats can get their air-conditioned theme park kicks at IMG Worlds of Adventure (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls), the world’s largest indoor park, which has four zones: Cartoon Network, Marvel, Lost Valley-Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. It’s an animation superhero love fest with more than 20 rides and attractions, including a first-of-its-kind Hulk 3D ride with 18 IMAX projectors and

IN THE KNOW

We have lift-off XDubai Slingshot Thrill seekers can now get their fix of adrenaline-pumping fun at the new XDubai Slingshot – the region’s fastest human slingshot – which is sure to stretch you to your limits. Located at Kite Beach, the ride will propel you 120-metres over sand and water at speeds of up to 100 km/hr in just half a second. Operating on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, tickets are sold on-site on first-come first-serve basis so be sure to arrive in good time.

Dhs280 per person.

Skydive Dubai

Timings may be subject to change during public holidays.

Tour Championship, the grand finale of the European Tour’s 47-tournament Race to Dubai. Tee times run from 7am-1.50pm (18-holes), while 9 holes is only available from 2pm onwards. Green fees vary.

The Peter Harradine designed The Track, Meydan Golf (+971 4 381 3733, meydangolf.com) places a huge emphasis on fun and welcomes golfers of all ages and abilities. Different tee box options on each hole offer varying lengths and degrees of difficulty, and with day and night tee off times available, the added bonus of the Dubai skyline as a backdrop adds to the experience. Visit the website or call the club for green fees and timings.

THE ACTIVITIES

Global Village

a seriously bone-chilling Haunted Hotel.

Open from 11am-10pm Sun to Wed, and 11am-11pm Thur to Sat. Next up, Dubai Parks and Resorts (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) in Jebel Ali has an impressive roster of rides spread across three theme parks and a water park. Wet and wild fun of the tot-friendly variety is mandatory at Legoland Water Park (see Splash Around on page 63-64).

Once you’ve dried off, explore the six themed lands at Legoland Dubai, home to 40 rides, shows and attractions, and 15,000 scale Lego models.

Fans of the Hindi film scene can get their Shah Rukh Khan on at Bollywood Parks Dubai, with a host of rides and attractions inspired by nine all-singing and dancing Bollywood films, complete with 30 colourful live shows a day.

Or, sit down and strap yourself in for the ride of a lifetime at Motiongate Dubai, with rollercoasters, multimedia ‘dark rides’ and live shows based on blockbuster film characters including Ghostbusters, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, The Hunger Games and The Smurfs, who even have their own village. Fear factor alert: not all rides are suitable for tender young minds – or adults of a nervous disposition – so check before you ride.

Motiongate and Bollywood are open daily from 3pm to 11pm until the end of the month. Legoland is open from noon to 8pm Sat to Wed, and noon to 9pm Thur and Fri. For a burst of culture and diversity, head to Global Village (+971 4 362 4114, globalvillage.ae) in Dubailand for an evening of thrills, shopping and familyfriendly fun. Now in its 23rd season, the

lively village takes you on a tour around the world thanks to its vibrant country pavilions, with myriad hair-raising rides, 'hold your breath' stunt shows and plays to enjoy. Plus, you can watch fireworks illuminate the night's sky every Thur and Fri. Open from Sat to Wed from 4pm to midnight and until 1am on Thur, Fri and public holidays.

EXPERIENCE SNOW AND ICE Where else but Dubai can you stroll along the beach in the morning and go skiing on real snow in the afternoon? A winter wonderland in the middle of the desert, Ski Dubai (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at Mall of the Emirates boasts the world’s first indoor black run, a waddle of people-friendly penguins

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and is the de facto destination for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing.

Don’t fret if you haven’t packed your salopettes, as you can hire clothing and equipment on-site. Be sure to catch the penguin parades between 2pm and 8pm daily. Open from 10am-11pm Sun to Wed, 10am to midnight on Thur, 9am to midnight on Fri and 9am-11pm on Sat. An Olympic-sized rink, Dubai Ice Rink (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at The Dubai Mall is the perfect spot to cool off with public sessions for beginner and intermediate skaters. Catch a snowflake on your tongue at one of the regular snowfall sessions, with Penguin Pal skating aids available for little ones (minimum one metre tall) and Snowmen for wobbly adults or kids 12 years or above. Plus, you can have a cycling showdown with friends on the IceBykes – they're like tricycles that glide across the ice – which get rolled out for evening fun. Check for session timings.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN New to the family-centric collection of activities in and around the popular Kite Beach strip is XPark Jr. (+971 4 328 4175, xparkjr.com), which blends desert and forest influences to create a fun, natural playscape. Kids get to splash in streams, climb trees and hang out in treehouses, as well as explore meandering paths, cascading fountains and the on-site petting zoo. With a mud kitchen also part of the outdoor fun, don’t forget to pack a change of clothes. Dhs45 per child (for two hours, with one with accompanying entering for free). Open from 8am-6pm Sat to Wed and 8am8pm Thur and Fri. You can step into a tropical jungle at The Green Planet (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com). Located at City Walk, the fivelevel glass bio-dome recreates the ecosystem of a tropical forest, with over 3,000 plants and animals and the world’s largest indoor man-made tree. As you descend from the top of

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the dome via a winding path, you’ll encounter exotic animals along the way, such as toucans, macaws, porcupines and even a sloth. From Dhs89. Open daily 10am-7pm Sun to Wed and 10am-8pm Thur to Sat. The kids will be bouncing off the walls at the region’s biggest trampoline and entertainment park, Bounce (+971 4 321 1400, bounce.ae), which has more than 80 interconnected trampolines to jump around on, as well as a free running arena, and the awesome X-Park Adventure Challenge Course with a zip line, bouldering wall and sea of pipes

BE PAMPERED SARAY SPA, JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS DUBAI Unwind at this pampering haven, which is famous for its soothing rituals that pay homage to the spa's Arabian heritage. Treatments incorporate locally-sourced, natural ingredients wherever possible. Book in for a bespoke holistic therapy. +971 4 414 6754, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

TIPS & TOES, THE POINTE The newest nail and pampering haven for Tips & Toes, here you can kick back and relax in one of the eight reclining mani/pedi stations while you are pampered with the perfect pedicure and some bold new nails. Dreamy massages, threading, facials and waxing are also on the treatment list. +971 4 583 6993, tipsandtoes.com

QUA SPA AT CAESARS PALACE BLUEWATERS DUBAI A newbie on the scene, signature treatments at Qua Spa include Iyashi Dome, a Japanese-inspired therapy that cocoons your body inside a detox dome for a deep cleanse. It promises a long-lasting slimming effect. +971 4 561 8126, caesars.com

for nimble feet to navigate. From Dhs75.

Open from 10am-10pm Sun to Wed, 10am to midnight Thur, 9am to midnight Fri and 9am-9pm on Sat. Get them thinking about their career choices early at edutainment centre KidZania (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at The Dubai Mall. There, little ones can try their hand at 80 different jobs, from Emirates A380 pilot (there’s even a simulator) to chef. Open from 10am-10pm on weekdays and 10am11pm at weekends.

THE ACTIVITIES For a smart play experience, OliOli in Al Quoz (+971 4 432 3232, olioli.ae) curates content from the best children’s museums, science centres and art studios in North America, Asia and Europe. Kids take part in hands-on activities designed to nurture curiosity, imagination and exploration, with eight galleries spread over two floors.

A standout feature is the region's first textile playground by artist Toshiko MacAdam – a large-scale structure made from brightly-coloured crocheted and knotted nylon. Entry for children costs from Dhs60 to Dhs120 for two hours (free for those aged up to 11 months).

Dhs40 for accompanying adults. Open from 9am-7pm Sun to Wed and on Sat, and 9am-9pm Thur and Fri. Augmented reality and virtual reality theme park VR Park (vrparkdubai.com)

at The Dubai Mall will see you whizzing down the side of Burj Khalifa like a stunt double, skydiving like a pro and having close encounters with creepy crawlies in the desert. The two-storey venue is packed with games, rides and experiences to suit all ages. Entry is free, just purchase a pass to play.

You can experience what it's like to be at the centre of an elephant herd or in the deepest ocean depths at Orbi Dubai at City Centre Mirdif (theplaymania.com). The first Orbi outside of Japan, it fuses nature content by BBC Earth with cutting-edge technology by SEGA to immerse you in the natural world via a multisensory experience. Dhs65 (ages 3-10), Dhs85 (10 years+), and free for under-threes.

Open from 10am-10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thur to Sat.

ASK A LOCAL Xander Bartle, student My favourite place to visit is the Dinosaur Park at Zabeel Park. My mum and dad took me and my brother there and we heard the Tyrannosaurus rex roar and saw some skeletons. I want to take all my friends. dubaigardenglow.com

OliOli

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Lucky Voice Dubai

The Nightlife

Evenings out are packed full of fun, with Thursday and Friday nights usually the busiest. The legal age to drink alcohol in Dubai (and enter a nightclub) is 21, so if you're blessed with youthful looks, be sure to bring your ID. We’ve included taxi references to help you find your way 68

THE NIGHTLIFE Secret Room

PLACES THAT PACK A PUNCH When the sun sets, Dubai's vibrant nightlife scene springs to life, giving even the most seasoned party-goer something to write home about.

New kid on the block, The Rotunda (taxi: Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, platinumlist.net) is welcoming an electric roster of live acts and immersive shows to its 500-seat, 360-degree viewing venue inspired by Rome’s famous Pantheon. Drawing on the 50-year legacy of its Las Vegas cousin, legendary headliners, such as Tenors of Rock (who played in Dec), trendsetting theatre acts, mindblowing magicians and comedians will take to the stage to raise the roof.

High rollers can drive their supercars straight into the middle of Secret Room (taxi: FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, +971 58 869 8996) for a speedy way to make an entrance. Those who prefer to

make a more discreet arrival can pass through the graffiti-adorned corridor, although access is only granted via unique finger print identification (you need to get registered in advance).

Once you're inside, hip hop and RnB set the tone in this 18th-century styled venue. From 1pm-3am every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Asia's backstreet speakeasies beckon at The Unlucky Cat (taxi: Taj Dubai, +971 50 650 4988), a quirky bar complete with neon sign of a maneki-neko (a lucky, 'waving' cat).

With something on every night, we suggest you go on Sun when you can swap a postcard or currency from a recent trip for a drink on the house.

Open daily from 6pm until late.

For dinner and a show in an intimate setting, Maison Rouge (taxi: Conrad Dubai, +971 4 352 8169) will bowl you over with cabaret, jazz and modern ballet, all in the space of a few hours. The live performances by a team of international artists are

The Unlucky Cat

Maison Rouge

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DUBAI INSTITUTIONS

Estrellas Rooftop Lounge

teamed with creative cuisine that tells the story of the relationship between gastronomy and art. The dishes are as dramatic as you'd expect – think drinks served in roses and smoking ice displays. Performances begin at 9pm and go on well into the night.

We’re not sure why it hasn’t been done before, but Stereo Arcade (taxi: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai – Jumeirah Beach, +971 52 618 2424) combines an arcade housing over 50,000 games with a slushy machine, hotdog stand and more. The stereo element sees the hi-tech club play '80s and '90s hits every weekend.

Open daily from 6pm-3am.

OH WHAT A NIGHT Ladies' nights are a 'thing' in the Emirates and Dubai is dame crazy when it comes to free beverages for womankind. Put on your best pair of heels and head to the popular West 14th (taxi: Oceana Beach Club, +971

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4 455 1101) on Palm Jumeirah every Wednesday from 7.30pm-10.30pm for three complimentary glasses of bubbly, which you can sip while admiring the gorgeous backdrop of the vibrant city.

Over at Flair No.5 (taxi: The RitzCarlton DIFC, +971 4 372 2323), Bloom on Wed calls upon Dubai's leading ladies to enjoy four complimentary drinks along with delicious nibbles to a soundtrack of Balearic island soul. 8pm to midnight.

Bid goodbye to the midweek blues onboard the historic Queen Elizabeth 2 (taxi: Port Rashid, +971 4 526 8888), which is now retired permanently in Dubai. Every Tuesday evening at the Yacht Club, ladies can enjoy unlimited selected drinks and nibbles for just Dhs95 aboard this legendary ocean liner. From 9pm to midnight.

Pool bar by day, chic lounge by night, Estrellas Rooftop Lounge (taxi: The Canvas Hotel Dubai MGallery by Sofitel, +971 4 386 8111) invites you to soak up

Dubai is home to a few spots that are famous for delivering an evening to talk about. Barasti (taxi: Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, +971 4 399 333) has been ruling the roost for 20 years, pulling in thousands of revellers every weekend. It combines live music, daily sunbathing sessions, a sand-betweenyour-toes dance floor and more serving stations than you can shake an empty glass at.

The Irish Village (+971 4 282 4750, theirishvillage.com) in Al Garhoud is another much-loved gem. The haunt of many a local (friendly) expat, the traditional interior opens out onto a large garden dotted with picnic tables. It has a great line-up of events that take place year-round. There's a second outpost at Riverland Dubai.

For many residents, an evening out at Rock Bottom Café (taxi: Ramee Rose Hotel, +971 55 200 9333) is a rite of passage. Its Barsha Heights venue has a live band and nightly DJs spinning club music.

Barasti

THE NIGHTLIFE the panoramic view of the city skyline with two complimentary drinks every Wednesday from 7pm to midnight. Plus, you can fill your tummy with unlimited Indian street food for just Dhs49.

ONE FOR THE BOYS Gents can bond over the male equivalent of a girls’ night out thanks to these dedicated evenings.

Saturdays are reserved for guys at Vault (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 4 414 3000) with a complimentary drink upon arrival and special offers available throughout the evening (from 8pm-11pm). This buzzy bar, perched high up on the hotel’s 71st and 72nd floors, offers great views of the glittering skyline.

Monday’s are reserved for men at The Tap House (taxi: Club Vista Mare, +971 4 514 3778) from 7pm to midnight when, for Dhs145, you can

take your pick from the gentlemen’s menu (we recommend the slow cooked orange glazed back ribs), accompanied by three house drinks.

Alternatively, head to Guy Fieri’s Kitchen & Bar (taxi: Reel Cinemas - Jebel Ali Recreational Club), where you can sink your teeth into a burger teamed with unlimited brews for Dhs99. Every Wednesday night from 7pm to 9pm.

SEAFRONT SETTINGS Want to feel the sand between your toes? Shimmers (taxi: Madinat Jumeirah, +971 4 432 3232) has a coveted location directly on the beach, with a view of Burj Al Arab.

Relax in the rattan chairs and soak up the Greek island vibes – the lounge is open daily until 12.30am.

With the JBR skyline as its backdrop and views of Palm Jumeirah, Bliss

Lounge (taxi: Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort, +971 4 315 3886) is a chi-chi little locale frequented by the ‘in’ crowd seeking top DJ action, custom mocktails and chilled beach vibes. Open daily from 12.30pm-3am.

So photogenic you’ll feel like you’re in a magazine shoot, the Jetty Lounge (taxi: One&Only Royal Mirage, +971 4 399 9999) rocks white linen style with beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Open daily from 2pm-2am.

SCENIC FOR SUNDOWNERS As the sun dips below the horizon, unwind with a drink in hand at these venues with a view.

For a spectacular vista of Madinat Jumeirah, head to Bahri Bar (taxi: Jumeirah Mina A'Salam, +971 4 432 3232), where you can reflect on the day while sipping drinks to a smooth jazz soundtrack. Open from 4pm-2am, Vault

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THREE CRACKING

KARAOKE VENUES Conquer your nerves and channel your inner music star by taking to the stage and impressing the crowd at these top karaoke venues…

1. Book in for dinner and an evening of fun at Maiden Shanghai restaurant (taxi: FIVE Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 455 9989). This stylish venue, inspired by 1930s Shanghai, has an amazing multi-language karaoke room. Fully soundproofed, groups of up to 15 can sing along to their favourite songs. If your performance bombs, you can always walk it off on the outdoor terrace.

Sat to Wed and 4pm-3am Thur and Fri. Farther along the waterway is folly

by Nick & Scott (taxi: Souk Madinat Jumeirah, +971 4 430 8535), which has two outdoor terraces with great views of the waterways. Perhaps the most Instagrammable drink is the Folly Pop, a raspberry ice-lolly dipped in bubbles, but the biodynamic red and white is equally good. The bar is open daily from noon until late.

Another prime spot is Observatory Bar & Grill (taxi: Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, +971 4 319 4000). Located on the 52nd floor, you can gaze down upon the twinkling lights of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. The bar is open daily from noon to 1am.

Moving downtown, Treehouse (taxi: Taj Dubai, +971 4 438 3100) is

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2. Get karaoke’d away at Kung Korean Restaurant & Karaoke (taxi: Byblos Hotel, +971 4 448 8000), where you can sing your heart out in one of eight private rooms and dine like you're in Korea.

The venue only fits up to 50 people (seated), so you won't feel daunted by the crowd. In fact, it's a favourite among Dubai's after-work set. Open daily from 9am to 2pm (located at the Mezzanine Level).

3. Imported from London, Lucky

known for its views of the city skyline towards Burj Khalifa. Make yourself comfortable as, after dark, this trendy open-air lounge comes to life with 'light deep' house music spun by resident DJ Taylor. Open from 7pm-2am on weekdays and 7pm-3am at weekends.

Over in City Walk, LookUp (taxi: La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK, Dubai, Autograph Collection, +971 54 309 5948) is the place to go for beautiful sunset views beside a glistening infinity pool, with Happy Hour drinks from Dhs30. Daily from 6pm-8pm.

At Q’s Bar & Lounge (taxi: Palazzo Versace Dubai, +971 4 556 8865), you can catch resident act Rogelio Douglas Jr. until 19 Jan. His soulful music – a mix of Otis Redding, John Legend and a bit of Pharrell Williams, with his trademark Motown and funky soul thrown in – and energetic performances have been bringing down the house.

Smooth operators can shuffle their feet at the Jazz Club pop-up at The Green Room located on the upper floor of Galvin Bistrot & Bar (taxi: The Square, City Walk, +971 4 590 5444). Live performances take place Tue through Fri from 9pm-2am.

With a global reputation for awesome live music, it's no surprise to find a Hard Rock Café in town

LIVE MUSIC LEGENDS The city is awash with live musical talent, from Aussie rockers and Filipina soul divas to Britpop artists ready to entertain you with their tunes.

Voice Dubai (taxi: Grand Millennium Hotel, +971 4 429 9999) is a top spot for testing your rap skills or belting out cheesy pop tunes to your heart’s content. Eleven private pods invite groups of six to 18 people to warble away without (much) fear of embarrassment, while the 15,000-song playlist means you’re guaranteed to find the perfect tune.

THE NIGHTLIFE (taxi: Dubai Festival City Mall, +971 4 232 8900). Check out wall-to-wall musical memorabilia, including a bolero jacket worn by the late Prince and Mick Fleetwood’s Tama drums, before rocking out to live and loud sounds.

Open from noon to 2am Mon to Sun. Ramp up the fun factor at Lock, Stock & Barrel, which is known for its full voltage performances. There are two venues in the city (taxi: Grand Millennium Dubai, +971 4 514 9195 and taxi: Rixos Premium Dubai, +971 4 520 0049) each spanning two floors and kitted out with pool tables and stools fronting the main act’s central stage. The JBR venue is open from 4pm-3am Mon to Fri and 2pm-3am on Sat and Sun, while the Barsha Heights venue has slightly different opening hours on Fri, from 1pm-3am.

BEACH CLUBS Dubai's beach club game is on point.

Unwind by the infinity pool and lap up the lush view of Palm Island Bay and the city skyline at DRIFT Beach Dubai (taxi: One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai, +971 4 315 2200). Take your pick from the drinks menu curated by awardwinning mixologist Eric Ballard and indulge in classic Provençal cuisine at the restaurant. The pool and beach are open daily from 10.30am-8pm – plenty of time to squeeze in some sundowners.

Along the Palm Jumeirah crescent, you’ll find Playa Nomade (taxi: Rixos The Palm Dubai, +971 54 449 6464). Not your typical party venue, this laid-back club, from the shores of Tulum, is a magnet for bohemian types thanks to its Friday Nomad parties. Open Wed to Sun from 10am to 7pm, Fri from 10am to

midnight; and Sat from 10am to 8pm.

A beach club meets open-air party, Zero Gravity (taxi: Skydive Dubai, +971 4 399 0009) attracts big name acts like Paul Van Dyk and Mark Ronson. On Thursdays, the Helter Skelter Evening Brunch, from 8pm to midnight, transforms the venue into a fairground of fun with video arcade games, ping pong, air hockey, and giant Jenga, among other classics. Dhs275 for ladies and Dh325 for guys including unlimited food and drinks.

RIVA (taxi: Shoreline, Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 430 9466) is set on 300 metres of pristine beach. As the sun goes down, the lights warm up at its popular Bar and Gazebo, situated next to the pool. Unwind with a drink in hand while listening to the Balearic beats of the resident DJs. Open daily from 7am to midnight.

Q's Bar & Lounge

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Trader Vic's

JUMPING SUPERCLUBS Glow sticks at the ready. Dubai’s big, bigger, biggest mentality has made it to the dance floor with a slew of funky clubs and mega dance venues to keep you going all night long.

Industrial Avenue (taxi: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, +971 52 293 5907), offers a laid-back alternative to clubbing with something different happening every night. Its flagship underground house and techno event KOVERT, every Wednesday, offers complimentary house drinks for ladies until 1am. Open 11pm-3am (main room) Wed to Fri. Soho Garden (taxi: Meydan Racecourse, +971 56 822 2559) captures the hipster vibe of London’s Soho, with a swimming pool area, four bars to lean on and resident DJs every day from 8pm until late.

Open from 7pm-3am, Wed to Sat.

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For a slice of New York chic, head to supper club 1OAK DXB (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 52 881 8888). Born from the namesake 'One Of A Kind', its sister venues in New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles are a favourite celebrity haunt. Open from 11pm-3am on Sun, Tue, Thur and Fri.

CASUAL HANGOUTS If you're tickled by novelty mocktail cups, Trader Vic’s JBR (taxi: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, +971 4 318 2530) has you covered. The tiki-themed venue, open 5pm-3am daily, is the place to go for inventive drinks, including JBR's bespoke Koana Puffer. Grab a seat on the outdoor terrace for views of the Arabian Gulf and try to time your visit during Happy Hour (5pm-8pm daily).

With its large outdoor terrace, Café Artois by Bridgewater Tavern (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 4 414

6755) is ideal for a chilled afternoon in the sun, with tasty barbecue food and a huge drinks selection to enjoy. Open from 4pm Sun to Thur and from noon on Fri and Sat. Fall in with the cool crowd at edgy Melbourne-inspired bistro, Brunswick Eatery, Bar and Terrace (taxi: Sheraton Mall of the Emirates, +971 56 404 0685) – its lively atmosphere will keep you on your toes. Open from 4pm to late Sun to Wed, and from noon until late, Thur to Sat. Garden on 8 (taxi: Media One Hotel, +971 4 427 1000) invites you to hang out on the lush green terrace where you can catch up on all the latest sporting action on the big screens. There's a daily Happy Hour from 4pm-8pm with wallet-friendly prices and offers like two-for-one on selected drinks. Open from noon to midnight Sun to Wed and from noon to 3am Thur to Sat.

THE NIGHTLIFE FIVE OF THE BEST

ROOFTOP TERRACES Drink in the views at these elevated nightspots dotted across the city

2. Situated high up on the 24th floor, offering 'wow' views of Burj Khalifa, Morimoto Dubai (taxi: Renaissance Downtown Hotel, +971 4 512 5577) lures foodies for its famous cuisine, but it's also a hotspot for drinks thanks to its four terraces and stellar view of Dubai Water Canal. Unwind with a glass of bubbly and feast your eyes on the glittering skyline.

1. With its striking dĂŠcor, twinkling lights and a backdrop of skyscrapers standing tall against the night's sky, Babel La Mer (taxi: SA30, La Mer, +971 4 419 0220) is the perfect depiction of Lebanese charm. Split over two levels, find your sweet spot on the al fresco terrace for beachy views.

4. Urban vibes meet contemporary art as The Backyard (taxi: Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay, +971 50 213 5816) invites you to lap up the winter breeze on its funky terrace. Unwind amid creative murals and street-inspired graffiti and sample the inventive drinks along with authentic Asian flavours served from the food truck.

3. Position yourself around the infinity pool at this popular chill-out lounge in Dubai Marina, which offers halfprice selected house and signature drinks every day from 6pm to 8pm.

Shades (taxi: Address Dubai Marina, +971 4 436 7777) is open daily from 9am to 1am.

5. The tropical oasis of ikandy ultralounge (taxi: Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai, +971 4 405 2703), is one of the sleekest chill-out-spots in the city due to its unobstructed pictureperfect view of the sparkling Burj Khalifa.

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IN THE FRAME

From its historic quarters to its larger than life entertainment, Dubai is a dream destination for photography fans, with something new to capture at every turn. In each issue, we spotlight a stand out photograph that offers a snapshot of the emirate

THE ONLY WAY IS UP

A city under construction, Dubai is always adding to its impressive roster of architecturallystunning skyscrapers. The design marvels that punctuate the skyline are best photographed from above, and there are a number of great viewing platforms offering an elevated view for keen photographers, including Rove Downtown where this curious snapper stands. Photo by Charles Liban Jr. for Rove Hotels and Nikon #RoveWithNikon

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