26 minute read
ELEVATOR PITCH
The elevator
pitch Business Traveller gives Jean-Francois Brun, General Manager at the new 25hours Hotel One Central, five minutes to pitch his property to prospective guests
Launched on December 15, 2021, the 25hours Hotel One Central is the very rst 25hours hotel to open in the Middle East, o ering 434 rooms and suites and exible events and co-working spaces. Relaxed, fun and packed full of things to do, guests can experience the ancient traditions of the Bedouins brought back to a modern life. A fun and vibrant property with a wonderfully welcoming aura, it’s a real place, intended for real people to come as they are. e hotel is just a stone’s throw from business hotspots such as Dubai International Financial Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai World Trade Centre and also overlooks the stunning Museum of the Future, so it’s the perfect spot for business travellers. Dubai International is also just 15 minutes by road and if you are travelling with your family, Dubai’s amazing beaches are a short drive away.
Our take on co-working is unique, with inviting spaces designed to encourage a community feel, enabling local people to connect with travellers. An open pantry and co ee bar are available at the gallery on the rst oor along with several meeting and experiential rooms. ese openplan spaces feature modern tech, high ceilings and huge windows so guests can enjoy great views while they work hard, or hardly work at all. A paint and pottery studio and podcast recording room add another dimension to our o ering in true 25hours style. ey are perfect for team activities or for those looking for a fun break from work.
As the famous saying goes, “all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy”, so we o er business travellers epic culinary and nocturnal adventures to help them wind down. Our venues are great for a er-work drinks, hosting clients or for use as event spaces. For dining, there’s Tandoor Tina, combining British and North Indian cuisines; Nomad Day Bar by Dubaibased cult co ee roasters, Nightjar; and the super popular Berlin import, Monkey Bar. Tandoor Tina also o ers ‘Tina’s Express Lunch’ every Monday to Friday from 12 noon to 3pm, priced just AED 85 (US$23) per person, so it’s a convenient and valuefor-money business lunch option.
Our spa, e Extra Hour, is dedicated to ‘you time’, with treatments ranging from quick 25-minute xes to indulgent full-body experiences. e 6th oor is home to the roo op pool and Monkey Pool Bar. Here you can relax poolside, sip cocktails and take in Museum of the Future views. We also have a ladies’ salon by renowned celebrity hairdresser Wassim Steve and Dubai’s rst outdoor mixed-gender sauna and an indoor and outdoor gym inspired by the vibes of Venice Beach.
If you’re into cycling, grab a complimentary Schindelhauer Bike, available from the lobby or in all Artist Village suites, and take a spin around the local neighbourhood and parklands. If you fancy heading further a eld, you can explore the area in a MINI Cooper, with a free fourhour test drive available.
For guests staying in Dubai for more than a few days or weeks, but not long enough to commit to renting an apartment, long-stay packages start from AED 12,000 ($3,267) per month and include bene ts such as complimentary meeting room access once a month for half-day use, complimentary access to co-working spaces with tea and ltered co ee, a complimentary driving experience with MINI Cooper twice monthly, a 25 per cent discount on F&B, laundry and spa, and much more.”
TOP: Jean-Francois Brun
BOTTOM FROM LEFT:
A Farmstay room; The Gallery coworking space
DUBAI TOURISM T he UAE is a nation of vast contrasts, with each individual emirate a diverse and multi-faceted destination in its own right. Imagine, then, if you were to take a winter trip of a lifetime and visit all seven?
That’s the wish of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who recently launched the second edition of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign.
Rolled out in collaboration with federal entities and local tourism departments, this season’s campaign promotes the UAE as one destination.
It primarily targets the domestic market, encouraging travel from emirate to emirate, but at the same time, demonstrates to a global audience just how much the country has to offer.
As Sheikh Mohammed tweeted: “The seven emirates have rich history, geography, nature, urban architecture, and community. The UAE’s archaeological sites, culture centres, historical landmarks, and nature reserves, offer visitors a holistic experience.”
Given its broad appeal, coupled with its status as a regional hub for business and trade, the UAE is on track to attract more than 31 million tourists annually by 2025, according to global data website Statista, with the country’s travel and tourism sector set to contribute AED280.6 billion (US$76.41 billion) to GDP by 2028.
While the country is currently well-known for its classic city, beach and desert offering, arguably led by Dubai, which has grabbed global headlines for years with its seven-star hotels, mega resorts and much more, discerning visitors are increasingly attracted to the UAE’s back-tonature experiences, spanning: ecological and sustainable tourism, offering nature reserves, oases, mountains, beaches and islands; desert tourism, including safari trips, sand boarding, and oases among rolling sand dunes; beach tourism, including options for water sports and free diving; and mountain tourism, including hiking activities, mountain biking, rock climbing and canyoning.
There is also a burgeoning adventure tourism scene, which includes deep-sea diving, parachute jumping, paragliding and many other adrenalin-fueled and challenging sports.
The country’s cultural and heritage offering is just as dense and encompasses historical and heritage sites and various museums, while tourism generated by major festivals and celebrations is on the rise.
For corporate groups/MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), the UAE offers plenty of world-class venues and attractions for business events with a difference. It’s an all-year-round destination for MICE, but if it’s inspirational outdoor team-building events you are looking for, a winter trip is ideal, given the mild weather.
Here, we round-up some of the coolest places and attractions to visit in the UAE this winter.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai
ABU DHABI
FOR ADVENTURE…
Clymb™ is home to the world’s biggest indoor skydiving flight chamber and the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall, both under one roof. Housed in a geometrically designed building, this fully indoor facility features a flight chamber spanning 10 metres wide and 25 metres high. Whether you’re a first-time ‘flyer’ as young as three years old, or an expert skydiver, Clymb™ Abu Dhabi’s flight instructors ensure a fun and safe experience suitable for adventurers of all ages.
COCKWISE FROM ABOVE:
Louvre Abu Dhabi; Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi; Clymb™ air-conditioned indoor theme park, brings all the legendary characters from this famous studio to life. Meet Superman, catch up with Batman or Wonder Woman, or be entertained by Bugs Bunny, Scooby-Doo, Fred Flintstone and more, all within an impressive 1.65-million-square-foot theme park boasting 29 state-of-theart rides, interactive family-friendly attractions, upbeat live entertainment, a range of dining options to suit all tastes, and exclusive shopping outlets.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, tells the marque’s story with passion, showcasing more than 20 exhilarating and educational rides and attractions, including the world’s fastest roller-coaster. Go from 0 to 240km/h in 4.9 seconds while soaring to heights of 52 metres. The Tyre Change Experience tests if you can match the pace of F1™ pit crews, while Turbo Track offers an epic zero-gravity fall.
Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi is a waterpark with Emirati heritage at its heart. Spanning 15 football pitches, the park offers exhilarating water-based activities across a range of thrill levels, with more than 40 rides, slides and attractions – five of which are one-of-a-kind. Try the world-first, largest hydromagneticpowered, 238-metre-long, six-person tornado waterslide, Dawwamma, or check out three-metre-high waves on Bubble’s Barrel, which boasts the world’s largest surfable sheet wave for flow boards and bodyboards. The Bandit Bomber, a 550-metre coaster, showcases onboard water and laser effects, with riders shooting jets of water at targets, dropping water bombs and triggering special effects.
FOR CULTURE…
The Palace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan,
located on the western edge of Al Ain Oasis, was built in 1937. It was converted into a museum in 1998 and opened to the public in 2001. The original structure comprised a private residence for the ruler and his family within a complex of courtyards.
The iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi is the first universal museum in the Arab World, translating and fostering the spirit of openness between cultures. As one of the premier cultural institutions located in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District on Saadiyat Island, this art-lovers’ dream displays works of historical, cultural and sociological significance, from ancient times to the contemporary era.
FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…
Jebel Hafit Desert Park provides insight into the rich history and incredible landscapes of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi’s lush garden city about one-and-a-half hours away from the capital. Occupying a ninekilometre stretch at the base of the craggy Jebel Hafit mountain, Abu Dhabi’s tallest peak, visitors can explore park’s majestic natural surroundings on a hike, mountain bike, horse or camel and discover fascinating archaeological and historical remains that tell enchanting stories of this unique area’s ancient habitation. Archaeological remains include remnants of the Neolithic period from 8,000 years ago and the 5,000-year-old Jebel Hafit Tombs.
Mangrove National Park,
located just outside Abu Dhabi city centre, is a jewel in the UAE capital’s crown. An ideal place for families, bird watchers and photographers looking to escape the hustle of the city for a few hours, this beautiful and surprising park continues to be one of the emirate’s most important ecological assets. It comprises around 75 per cent of the total mangrove forest area in the UAE and is a biodiversity hotspot that includes mangrove forests, salt marshes, mudflats, and algal communities.
Sir Bani Yas Island, one of eight of the Al Dhafra islands, is a nature-based destination home to stunning wildlife, a range of adventure activities, five-star boutique hotels, luxury villas, purpose-built stables and historical sites. Named the World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination at the 2014 World Travel Awards, more than half of this incredible island comprises the Arabian Wildlife Park, one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves home to more than 17,000 freeroaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs. Guests can enjoy 4x4 nature and wildlife safaris in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert guides, with the island’s state-ofthe-art stables offering a variety of equestrian activities.
ABU DHABI’S HIDDEN GEMS
Bab Al Nojoum (pictured) camp is a new glamping destination located on a quiet beach on Al Hudayriat Island. Delma Island is one of the oldest known permanent human settlements in the UAE, containing traces of palm tree cultivation and pottery dating back to the Mesopotamian civilisation. Souq Al Zafarana located 90 minutes outside of Abu Dhabi, is the go-to destination if you are shopping for abayas, incense, spices or henna. It reflects Emirati traditions in a modern environment.
SIR BANI YAS ISLAND BY ANANTARA
DUBAI
FOR ADVENTURE…
Deep Dive Dubai, the latest addition to the city’s thriving sports and adventure activities scene, is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts. Opened in July 2021, the recreational centre’s 60.02-metre-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving. Shaped like an oyster, the building’s design pays homage to Dubai’s pearl diving heritage and the bravery of Emirati pioneers.
For outdoor experiences…
Hatta, located around 130km south-east of central Dubai, is a mountain town once known for its historic fort and small desert farms, but now attracts a wide range of adventure enthusiasts too. Pack your camping gear for a trek through the unforgettable landscapes and take it all in, from mountain biking at Hatta Wadi Hub and honey harvesting at the Hatta Honey Bee Garden to kayaking at Hatta dam and outof-this-world stargazing. At Hatta Reservoir Visitor Point, check out the pools of striking green water.
Outdoor yoga is offered at multiple venues around the city. You can experience Garden zen at SEVA garden in Jumeirah or take a break from city bustle with Lifestyle Yoga’s overnight desert yoga experience, or try underwater yoga at The Lost Chambers in Atlantis, The Palm. Yoga sessions are also available at high altitudes, with a class on the 52nd floor of The Palm Tower, or why not try Sunset Yoga at Jumeirah Al Qasr facing the Burj Al Arab Hotel.
DUBAI TOURISM DUBAI TOURISM
FOR CULTURE…
Dubai Spice Souk or the Old
Souk is a traditional market along Dubai Creek. Follow your nose to Al Sabkha Street where this openair market will tempt you with beautifully scented piles of spices, salts, nuts and dried fruit, replicating every colour of the rainbow. The souk comprises several narrow lanes, which are lined with open- and closed-roof stores. In addition, textiles, incense, rugs and artefacts are also sold in the Spice Souk. You’ll get the real Dubai experience as you wander through the meandering alleys.
The Al Fahidi Historical
Neighbourhood reveals what life in Old Dubai was like during the mid-19th century. Located along the Dubai Creek, this district is a key heritage site with much of the original infrastructure preserved and intact. The traditional wind towers – constructed from stone, teak, gypsum, palm wood and sandalwood – represent only a small part of Al Fahidi’s history. Each alley, twisting pathway and breezy tower tells a story of a life before the seven emirates. Follow the winding streets to discover a range of cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and traditional food.
FOR FUN…
Ain Dubai is the latest landmark to join Dubai’s long list of world record-breaking attractions. Located on the new Bluewaters Island destination near Dubai Marina, the giant observation wheel stands at a staggering height of 250 metres, making it the highest and largest of its kind in the world. The monument is an amazing feat of construction, with each leg of the wheel standing 126m high – long enough to fit 15 London buses – while the weight of the assembled hub and spindle is equivalent to four A380 aircrafts.
COCKWISE FROM LEFT:
Ain Dubai; Crescent Moon Lake; Hatta; Deep Dive Dubai; Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
DUBAI’S HIDDEN GEMS
Crescent Moon Lake, an oasis spring in a crescent shape, was only discovered last year (April 2021) and can only be reached by 4X4 – or by camel of course. Its co-ordinates are 24.7874218, 55.3065662 and it’s not far from the heart-shaped Love Lake in Al Qudra. Al Qudra Lakes is resident to more than 170 species of birds and animals and is the ideal spot for nature lovers who want to get away from busy city life. It’s also perfect for picnics and camping. Hatta Secret Pool was given its name because of its location, hidden in the rocky mountains and accessible only by foot. Visitors can relax, swim, go fishing and more.
SHARJAH
FOR CULTURE…
The House of Wisdom is an iconic library and cultural centre designed by renowned international architecture firm Foster + Partners. It pays tribute to the cultural accomplishments of Sharjah, commissioned in honour of the emirate being named the World Book Capital 2019 by UNESCO, and hosts a 105,000-book library with indoor and garden reading areas; seven specially designed pods for students and businesses to hold meetings and discussions; and the Al Jazri lab where creators and innovators have access to state-of-the-art technology and tools.
FOR HISTORY…
Explore Mleiha, one of the UAE’s most important historical sites. Step back in time and learn a about the settlers in the region during the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, Islamic and modern ages. At Mleiha Archaeological Centre, venture deep into the deserts of Sharjah and uncover the secrets of the region’s ancient Bedouin culture through a mosque, all built of rock and clay. The village is currently being restored by Sharjah Planning and Survey Department along with several other historical areas of Khorfakkan.
COCKWISE FROM ABOVE:
Al Qurm Protected Area; Mleiha; The House of Wisdom; Moon Retreat intriguing information, exhilarating recreational activities and breathtaking natural landscapes. Discover something unique every time with the centre’s ongoing excavation programme, which ensures there’s always a new treasure waiting to be unearthed.
Al Miqsar Village was built around 300 years ago and is located atop a small mountain in Wadi Shie. The village also has houses, stores, and
SHARJAH’S HIDDEN GEMS
At Al Sohob rest you can enjoy Khorfakkan’s beautiful views from 600 metres above sea level. The new ‘Cloud Lounge’ here offers modern facilities, including a restaurant.
FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…
Moon Retreat is the place to experience eco-luxe camping, with luxury tent and dome accommodation, some with private pools, and signature nature-inspired experiences, including epic stargazing opportunities, hiking trails and a trip to Mleiha Archaeological Centre, home to a fascinating collection of artifacts and fossils. The glamping destination features a reception and a communal area offering a bonfire and BBQ experience too.
Al Qurm Protected Area located in the coastal areas of Kalba is home to one of the UAE’s most diverse ecosystems including seawater mangroves, swamps, salt marshes and mudflats, providing a suitable environment for a remarkable biodiversity of flora, fauna and animals. It is an important habitat for breeding many rare birds such as the local Arabian Collared Kingfisher and is also popular for eco-tourism pursuits including kayaking.
CLOCKWISE FROM
TOP: Sheikh Zayed Mosque; Al Aqah Beach; Wadi Abadilah
FUJAIRAH
FOR HISTORY…
Fujairah Castle, located 20 metres above sea level, was built between 1500-1550 AD and rebuilt in the period 1650-1700 AD.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the second largest mosque in the UAE after Sheikh Zayed mosque in Abu Dhabi.
FOR LEISURE…
Umbrella Beach, is an ambitious project on Fujairah’s waterfront and features restaurants, cafés, retail stores and other recreational, water and sports activities.
FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…
Wadi Abadilah is one of the oldest areas of the UAE and an all-year-round destination due to its stunning natural landscape spanning mountains and rivers.
Wadi Wurayah Bisophere
Reserve, home to a unique plant and animal ecosystem with many wild animals, amphibians, birds and rare plants.
Camping on Al Aqah Beach – the emirate’s most popular beach, and one of the UAE’s most in-demand camping spots with charming views and clear water for snorkelling and other activities including kayaking.
FUJAIRAH’S HIDDEN GEMS
Fujairah is blessed with diverse natural attractions, from wadis and valleys and mountains to desert and beaches, most of which is uninhabited, so it’s easy to find a spot to escape and relax. From a quite picnic or a solo yoga session as the sun rises to climbing and off-road adventures, there is something for everyone.
RAS AL KHAIMAH
FROM TOP: The Jais Adventure Peak; Cycling adventures; Dhayah Fort; 1484 by Puro
FOR ADVENTURE…
The Jais Adventure Peak,
located on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, is the gateway to attractions such as the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck Park, the Jebel Jais Flight – The World’s Longest Zipline – and the Jais Sky Tour, comprising six ziplines, a sky bridge and more, as well as hiking, sledding and a ropes course.
The Bear Grylls Explorers
Camp offers courses of varying lengths, putting participants faceto-face with some of the toughest terrains in the wilderness. Check in here and you’ll receive hands-on practical training in extreme survival techniques. Topping off the experience are nine recycled and redesigned Bear Grylls branded cabins where you can spend the night and also have access to activities including mountain biking, hiking and climbing.
OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…
Cycling enthusiasts love RAK as it offers terrains for all levels and abilities, with dramatic views mixed with varying ascents at Jebel Jais, Jebel Yibir, Wadi Showka and Wadi Shewa.
FOR CULTURE…
Dhayah Fort, the only remaining hilltop fortress in the UAE, is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s crowning glories, a site so precious that it’s a UNESCO heritage list contender. Dating back to the 19th century, this historical gem is also a Ras Al Khaimah vantage point, revealing stunning views of the lush palm gardens, the Arabian Sea and the dramatic mountain ranges.
Suwaidi Pearl Farm, the only pearl farm in the UAE, provides a glimpse into the emirate’s pearling industry. Take a traditional pearling boat to the floating cultured farm at the base of the Hajar Mountains as part of a guided tour where you will learn about the pearl cultivation and harvesting process and even open your own pearl. Discover how the pearling industry has evolved over the decades.
RAS AL KHAIMAH’S HIDDEN GEMS
1484 by Puro, the highest restaurant in the UAE, is the place to grab a sky-high bite with views while visiting the Jebel Jais Viewing Deck. It’s located at the Jebel Jais Welcome Centre and features an outdoor terrace. Bedouin Oasis Camp is a peaceful desert retreat where visitors can learn about authentic Bedouin customs and traditions. Bassata Desert Village is another option – here you can hang out with camels, enjoy a laidback BBQ and camp for the night.
AJMAN
FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…
Al Zorah Reserve, located in the northern region of Ajman, is a protected area of more than one-million-square-metres of natural mangrove forest, and is a vibrant ecosystem for birds, namely flamingos, as well as marine life.
Al Zorah Golf Club is a world-class par-72 course, created by the famed Nicklaus Design Group, set in the Al Zorah Reserve amid mangroves and trees and surrounded by 12km of waterfront to create a sense of tranquility and natural biodiversity for players.
Masfout, famous for its agricultural land, marble and rugged backdrop, is a superb destination for hikers. With its altitude and cooler temperatures, it attracts walkers and mountain bikers, plus its valleys are ideal for a picnic.
FOR HISTORY…
The Heritage District is a popular tourism destination showcasing Ajman’s cultural heritage and the famous Ajman Museum is the focal point. This newly renovated museum is housed in an 18th century castle that was once the ruler’s residence and now exhibits an impressive collection of artifacts, ancient manuscripts, pottery, and jewels dating back to 3,000 BC. The museum also features interactive electronic devices to ensure personal interaction by museum visitors
Masfout Museum was inaugurated in December 2021 and features 12 themed rooms plus two towers. These sections introduce visitors to the history of the emirate and its ruling family, its traditions, crafts, and weaponry for a period of almost 5,000 years.
FROM TOP: Al Zorah Golf Club; Al Zorah Reserve; Masfout; Ajman Museum
AJMAN’S HIDDEN GEMS
Bianky beach camp is the ideal getaway for anyone who enjoys peace and tranquility. The entire camp is set on the beach and promises a traditional atmosphere.
UMM AL QUAWAIN’S HIDDEN GEMS
Umm Al Quwain Wall is considered one of the oldest historical monuments in the region and comprises three towers called ‘Al Lazima Towers’.
UMM AL QUWAIN
FOR HISTORY…
Falaj Al Mualla, located around 30km from Umm Al Quwain city, is one of the most unique historic sites in the emirate, with its fort and watch towers dating back to the reign of Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid the first in 1800. The fort was built using raw materials such as rocks from the nearby valley, cemented together with a mixture of gypsum.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP
RIGHT: Al Ali Fort; The Ed-dour Site; Mangrove Beach Khor Al Yeefrah Al Ali Fort is the most ancient historical building in Umm Al Quwain as it was first established by H.H. Sheikh Rashid Bin Majid Al Mualla in 1768 as a residence and venue for his government. In 2000 it reopened as a museum and today features 14 rooms to visit.
The Ed-dour Site is an exceptional archaeological area located on the southeast coast of the Arabian Gulf near the road linking Umm Al Quwain to Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah to Dubai. The only temple of its kind in the Arabian Gulf, it is dedicated to the ‘God of the Sun’. The site also features a fortress and a palace, along with graves dating back to the first century AD.
FOR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES…
Mangrove Beach Khor Al
Yeefrah is popular for its natural beauty and mangrove beaches and aims to promote environmental tourism. The mangrove forests feature magnificent red dunes where bird watchers can spot flocks of many bird species The beach offers unique opportunities for relaxation, camping, caravans, and activities such as kayaking, beach tennis, jet-skiing and paragliding.
THE WORLD ON PLATE
VISIT THE UAE TO FEAST ON THE VERY BEST OF GLOBAL CUISINE
With the UAE’s restaurant scene as diverse as its destination offering, it has earned a reputation as a global gastronomic hub – a country where you can eat a different cuisine every day for 365 days a year.
Its tens of thousands of restaurants cater to every taste and craving, reflecting the palates of more than 200 nationalities who now call the country home.
Food tourists have already started to make a beeline for the UAE, exploring not just the best of Gulf cuisine – dishes such as the hearty harees and the dessert luqaimat – but some of the best examples of food from the Arab world, the Indian subcontinent, South-East Asia and East Africa.
It means visitors enjoying the World’s Coolest Winter in the UAE can indulge in whatever they fancy, from five-star gourmet dining to homegrown fusion concepts to a wide array of street food.
Try Iraqi Masgouf, Jordanian Mansaf, Palestinian Musakhan, Somali Cambuulo, North Indian Biryani, Portuguese Bacalao, Ethiopian Zigni, Iranian Falooda and Russian Kapusta, and eat over crisp white tablecloths or spread out on a blanket in one of the nation’s many parks or on one of its beaches.
Such is the country’s reputation for top-notch cuisine that an increasing number of renowned international chefs have brought their skills to the UAE and their restaurants have become tourism magnets.
Among these celebrated names are Gordon Ramsay, Nobu Matsuhisa, Giorgio Locatelli and the former White House chef in the Barack Obama administration, Ron DeSantis.
Gordon Ramsay
British chef Gordon Ramsay has achieved worldwide fame, opening a string of restaurants around the world, including 15 in London where Restaurant Gordon Ramsay has held three Michelin stars for two decades. Ramsay first brought his talents to the UAE with Bread Street Kitchen, a crowd-pleasing British-accented venue at Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai. He has since added Hell’s Kitchen in Caesars Palace Dubai on Bluewaters Island. This is the second branch of this luxurious franchise following its launch in Las Vegas and is inspired by Chef Ramsay’s reality TV show. It serves his signature dishes including beef Wellington and sticky toffee pudding.
THIS PAGE §FROM TOP:
Nobu Matsuhisa; Hungry Planet; Gordon Ramsay
OPPOSITE PAGE FROM
TOP: The UAE offers a diverse range of cuisines; Local grilled fish is a must try
Nobu Matsuhisa
Highly acclaimed Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa opened the Dubai branch of his world-famous restaurant Nobu at Atlantis, The Palm, in 2008. True to its global reputation, Chef Matsuhisa serves exquisite contemporary Japanese dishes that fuse the flavours of the Far East with international elements, including those from the Gulf. It remains the benchmark for Asian cuisine in the UAE.
Massimo Bottura
For lovers of Italian cuisine, the UAE is home to one of Italy’s most famous chefs, Massimo Bottura. His restaurants have earned three Michelin stars and he has brought his unique style and palate to Dubai in the form of Torno Subito at the W Hotel on The Palm. The relaxed beachside venue is inspired by the 1960s and offers innovative Italian for lunch and dinner. Prior to opening his Dubai venue, Bottura gained wide international fame after opening his first restaurant, Osteria Francescana, which is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the world.
Giorgio Locatelli
International chef Giorgio Locatelli has gained global fame thanks to a talent that is as at home in the kitchen as it is on our television screens. He was brought up among celebrity chefs in Corgeno, Italy, and after working in restaurants in Switzerland, England and Paris, he opened Olivo and Zafferano, which immediately became two of the most successful Italian restaurants in London. He then opened Ronda Locatelli at the iconic Atlantis resort on The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, a popular eatery serving an array of authentic Italian dishes.
Hungry Planet
It’s not just in restaurants where the world’s best chefs are able to make their mark in the UAE. Ron DeSantis, a former chef at the White House in the US, is lending his expertise to future foods, specifically plant-based meat products that deliver both health and environmental benefits. As chief culinary officer at Hungry Planet, which is exploring opening operations in the UAE, Ron is helping to cement the UAE’s position as a leading regional hub for food technology. This also makes the country a destination for tourists wishing to experience what food will be like in the future.
