JUMEIRAH AUGUST 2018

AUGUST - SEP TEMBER 2018

NANCY AJRAM

TRUE ELEGANCE An artist for the ages PLUS DISCOVERING DUBAI’S HISTORIC CREEK DISTRICT | THE UAE SPACE RACE TAKES OFF | OPERA AROUND THE WORLD | LONDON’S ROYAL ACADEMY GETS A MAKEOVER

M A S T E R C H RO N OM E T E R : R A I S I N G S TA N DA R D S

Behind the elegance of every Master Chronometer timepiece is the highest level of testing: 8 tests over 10 days, to ensure superior precision and anti-magnetic resistance. We’ve raised our standards. You can too.

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Available at: OMEGA Boutiques: Dubai: BurJuman • Deira City Centre • Dubai Mall • Dubai Festival City • Mall of Emirates • Mirdif City Centre • Sahara Center • Wafi Abu Dhabi: Marina Mall • Yas Mall.

And available at Rivoli stores across UAE. Toll Free: 800-RIVOLI

THE DUBAI MALL BOUTIQUE T: + 971 4 421 4648 | INFO@FRANCKMULLERDUBAI.AE

5002 M QZ D3 1P

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Movement: Quartz Indicators: Hours and minutes Case: 18-carat Gold set with 181 diamonds, 3.29 cts Dial: set with 86 diamonds, 0.81 cts Strap: Alligator

Movement: Quartz Indicators: Hours and minutes Case: 18-carat Gold set with 181 diamonds, 3.29 cts Dial: No. 4 set with 8 diamonds, 0.04 cts Strap: Alligator

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Managing Partner & Group Editor lan Fairservice Editorial Director Gina Johnson Senior Editorial Assistant Cecilia D’Souza Senior Art Director Olga Petroff Art Directors Clarkwin Cruz, Prasadan T Contributors Rachel Silvestri, Gareth Rees, Polly Phillips, Conor Purcell, Sophia Serin, Guido Duken, Natalie Westernoff General Manager – Production S Sunil Kumar Production Manager R Murali Krishnan Production Supervisor Venita Pinto Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne Publishing Director Carlos Pedroza Publisher Jaya Balakrishnan jaya@motivate.ae For Jumeirah Charlie Taylor, Claire Hill

ON THE COVER: Nancy Ajram - star on the rise

Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai UAE, Tel: +971 4 427 3000, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 657 3490, Fax: +971 2 657 3489, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

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SERPENT BOHÈME

FIRST JEWELER OF THE PLACE VENDÔME In 1893, Frédéric Boucheron is the first of the great contemporary jewelers to open a Boutique on the Place Vendôme

Contents AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

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p. 44

A N I G H T AT T H E OPERA Where to go for a sublime experience of drama, music and poetry

44 A R T AT TAC K The Royal Academy London has got a chic new look

50 B R OA D ST R O K E S Kuwait's art scene is rejuvenating itself

54 S K Y- H I G H A M B I T I O N The UAE National Space Programme is training Emirati cadres for giant strides into space

60 RIVER OF DREAMS The prosperity of Dubai owes much to the Dubai Creek

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GET WITH THE PROGRAMME

14 C I T Y WATC H Key dates for your diary to events around the world

Take your wellness routine to the next level with help from experts

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P I O N E E R WO M A N

TO P TA B L E S

Mona Al Hebsi easily wears many hats – HR professional, life coach and writer

Exclusive gourmet dining options at Jumeirah

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F E AT U R E D S PAC E S

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C E N T R E STAG E

The Lobby lounge, Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel, Shanghai

Popular Lebanese singer Nancy Ajram on life and career

p. 60

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G L O B E T R OT T E R

STAC K S O F ST Y L E Manaal Al Hammadi showcases Chaumet’s latest jewellery collections

82 Chandler Burr's fragrant journey

p. 66

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City watch

ABU DHABI

PERFORMANCE P O E T RY

Lucinda Childs photographed by Douglas Mason

September 28 to April 2019 Rooftop Rhythms, “the longest-running poetry openmic night in the Middle East”, returns to NYU Abu Dhabi’s The Market Place. Founded by American performance poet Dorian Rogers in 2012, Rooftop Rhythms has since become one of the highlights of the Abu Dhabi cultural calendar.

With the support of NYU Abu Dhabi. The new season of Rooftop Rhythms kicks off on September 28 with an openmic night and will run until April 2019 with regular open-mics and poetry slams.

Rooftop Rhythms takes place on September 28 at The Market Place, NYU Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi. See facebook.com/ rooftoprhythmsAD for more details

I N D I A S PA R K L E S August 17 du Forum hosts the Sparkles of India festival. Sparkles of India is a celebration of India’s Independence Day and offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Indian culture, sampling traditional Indian cuisines and enjoying an Indian Parade and dance performances.

Let’s dance September 5 and 6

NYU Abu Dhabi’s The Arts Centre continues to spice up the capital’s cultural offering this month with veteran post-modern American dancer-choreographer Lucinda Childs’ revival of her 1979 show Dance.

Dance, winner of a NEA/NEFA American Masterpiece Award, is a collaboration between Childs, one of the foremost members of the experimental Judson Dance Theatre collective

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Sparkles of India, du Forum, Abu Dhabi. yakfoundation.com

F O L K DA N C I N G Until August 13 Bawadi Mall presents Around the World, a celebration of folk

in the 1960s, artist Sol LeWitt and composer Philip Glass. The new version of Dance, which will be performed on two consecutive nights in Abu Dhabi, features a restored version of LeWitt’s visual work and 11 dancers from the Lucinda Childs Dance Company.

dances from seven countries.

Dance takes place at Red Theatre, The Arts

dedicated to the Emirati Ayallah.

Centre, NYU Abu Dhabi in Abu Dhabi. See nyuad.

Around the World, Bawadi Mall,

nyu.edu for more details

Abu Dhabi. visitabudhabi.ae

Dancers from each country have one day and four shows per week to showcase their country’s traditional folk dances. The seventh day is

City watch

DUBAI

Throughout 2018

Exhibition space

Jumeirah Group has teamed up with Dubai Culture to open a gallery space in Jumeirah Al Qasr in Madinat Jumeirah.

It will be dedicated to celebrating and promoting the work of artists from the Middle East through Jumeirah Art, an exhibition that will run throughout 2018.

Saudi Arabian artist Lulwah Al Hamoud will be the first artist to have their work displayed as part of

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Jumeirah Art. Al Hamoud’s work, which features geometrical forms and Arabic calligraphy is influenced by the work of Egyptian calligrapher Ahmed Moustafa and Pakistani calligrapher Rasheed Butt, will be on display in the new gallery space until mid-September. “The unique architecture and interiors designs at Jumeirah Al Qasr, inspired by historical Arabian palaces, makes it the perfect

place to host some of the region’s most celebrated artists, especially the Arabic inspired art of Lulwah, which showcases the artistic elements of this part of the region, while complementing the guests’ cultural experience,” said Pinar Timer, General Manager of Jumeirah Al Qasr.

Jumeirah Art takes place throughout 2018 at Jumeirah Al Qasr in Dubai.

See jumeirah.com for more details

THE WORLD

WINE TASTING

A still from the Opera Carmen

Frank Hartung, Executive Chef at Jumeirah Frankfurt, explains the hotel’s latest Winemakers Dinner

A S I A’S P H O E N I X

BY G EO R G E !

FA I R Y TA L E

August 17

September 6 to 8

September 13 to 15

Filipina pop star Morissette

Dubai Opera stages French

The Armenian National

performs her hit show,

composer George Bizet’s

Academic Theatre Opera

Morissette Is Made at

celebrated opera Carmen.

and Orchestra performs

Dubai World Trade Centre.

Featuring two of the world’s

Wolfgang Amadeus

Morissette, dubbed “Asia’s

best-known arias, Habanera

Mozart’s comic fairy tale

Phoenix” is also a television

and Toreador Song,

The Magic Flute at Dubai

What is the Winemakers Dinner? The

regular and actress in her

Carmen is the story of the

Opera. Mozart’s opera is the

Winemakers Dinner, which has been

native Philippines. Her

tragic Don José’s love for

story of Prince Tamino and

running for two years now, is a good

self-titled debut album,

the gypsy Carmen. It will be

Pamnina’s triumph over the

opportunity for our guests to learn

released in 2015, achieved

performed by the Armenian

Queen of the Night.

more about wine, especially apple

platinum status.

National Academic Theatre

The Magic Flute,

wine, by tasting the best of the region.

Morissette Is Made, Dubai

Opera and Orchestra.

Dubai Opera, Dubai.

Guests will enjoy delicious, quality

World Trade Centre, Dubai.

Carmen, Dubai Opera,

dubaiopera.com

wines in combination with a wine

laverdadevents.com

Dubai. dubaiopera.com

themed menu and a stunning view of the Frankfurt skyline. The guests will also have the opportunity to talk to the

Asia Cup 2018 is being hosted by the UAE

winemakers during the dinner. Could you explain the ‘grape meets apple’ theme? Apple wines are a specialty of Hesse and are produced from apples instead of grapes, so they are lighter and more sour. You have teamed up with two vineyards: Kaufman and

H O W Z AT !

Obsthof am Steinberg. Why did you

September 13 to 28

choose these vineyards? We chose

Dubai hosts the 14th edition of the Asia

each of the two vineyards due to their

Cricket Cup. Six of Asia’s top teams,

great wines and diversity. Furthermore,

including defending champions India, as

we like to support regional vineyards.

well as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan

Each of them puts an emphasis on

and Afghanistan, will compete in the

producing their wines ecologically and

annual 50-over series. The venue and

sustainably.

the sixth team are yet to be confirmed.

Asia Cricket Cup, TBC, Dubai. asiancricket.org

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City watch

THE WORLD

Good Thames September 1 to 30

Thames Festival Trust presents Totally Thames. The annual festival, which started in 2014, is a monthlong celebration of the River Thames.

It consists of a series of cultural

activities and events, including popup shows, water-based activities, river clean-ups, talks and workshops.

Totally Thames, various locations, London. totallythames.org

Future Dust artwork by Maria Arceo displayed at Totally Thames

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City watch

THE WORLD

FA M I LY F U N

S U M M E R F E ST

C U LT U R E K I C K

Until August 18

August 10

August 24 to 23

The annual Bahrain Summer

Travel to Cala d’Or on the

Explore Frankfurt’s “museum

Festival returns for its 10th

southeast coast of Mallorca

row” on the Sachsenhausen

edition. Visit the Nakhool

for Festes de Santa Maria

bank of the Main River at the

Tent at Arad Fort and enjoy

del Mar. The one-day festival

annual Museum Embankment

a packed schedule of family-

features children’s activities,

Festival. Enjoy an arts and

friendly artistic and cultural

sports and traditional dance,

crafts market, live music

activities and events.

food and music.

and international cuisine.

Bahrain Summer Festival,

Festes de Santa Maria del Mar,

Purchase a festival button and

Arad Fort, Bahrain.

Cala d'Or, Mallorca

enjoy cut-price admission.

PA R T Y T I M E

Museum Embankment

August 25 to 27

Festival, Frankfurt.

Notting Hill Carnival returns

frankfurt-tourismus.de

to the streets of West

visitbahrain.bh

London for the August bank holiday weekend. The annual celebration of Caribbean culture, which promises a colourful parade through the streets of Notting Hill, street food and Calypso, first took place in 1966 and has since become an institution.

Notting Hill Carnival, Notting Hill, London

SUMMER SOUNDS Until September 8 Summer in London wouldn’t be the same without the Proms

Grand design September 15 to 23

London Design Festival returns for its 16th edition. The festival seeks to promote London as the design capital of the world with bespoke displays and installations, museum tours and workshops from Global Design Forum

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at The Royal Albert Hall, the annual classical music festival that first took place in 1895.

This year’s Proms features a series of classical music concerts and events leading up to Proms in the Park in Hyde

at the V&A, the festival hub, and specially commissioned installations in locations throughout the capital.

London Design Festival, various locations, London. londondesignfestival.com

Park and the famous Last Night of the Proms in The Royal Albert Hall on September 8.

Proms, various locations, London. bbc.co.uk/proms

www.slouchyz.com

City watch Eyes Meeting by Li Nu. Courtesy of One Way Art Gallery, Beijing

THE WORLD

Snap happy September 21 to 23

Photofairs returns to Shanghai Exhibition Centre for the fifth consecutive year.

The annual photography fair is aimed at established and rookie collectors of fine art photography and hosts international galleries specialising in classical and contemporary photography and the moving image.

Photofairs, Shanghai Exhibition Centre, Shanghai. photofairs.org

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People

SPOTLIGHT

PIONEER WOMAN As a groundbreaking Emirati with a successful hospitality career as well as a book coming out this summer, it’s little wonder that Mona Al Hebsi was recently named an ‘Inspirational Female Leader’ at a top awards ceremony lauded HR professionals, Mona is set to release her first book, entitled Beat the Odds, this summer. Telling her life story as well as chronicling her career in the luxury hospitality industry, the book also provides priceless advice for hoteliers, both veteran and fledgling. Jumeirah sat down with Mona to hear more about her background, her work, and what makes her such an inspiration.

Extending a warm welcome to guests at Jumeirah properties

O

n the 24th of April, at the International Business Excellence Awards 2018 in Dubai, an award was given to Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s Director of Human Resources that simply confirmed what her colleagues already knew – that she is an ‘Inspirational Female Leader’. “When it was announced to everyone, that was a very happy moment for me filled with a lot of excitement and gratitude,” says Mona.

The award was very well deserved – Mona hails from a conservative tribe in the UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah emirate, and has come a long way from her beginnings. Now one of the UAE’s most

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Which of your achievements does the inspirational female leader award recognise?

I was shortlisted in this category, and I came to know about my win at the event. The award recognises the impactful women who are shaping the business environment through their leadership, dedication and forward thinking. The award looks at the person’s key achievements and valuable contributions in the past 18 months, that progressively build on previous successes. I’ve been very privileged to work with great teams who share the credit for my success as we can do more when we come together. I strongly believe in people and that amazing things happen if leaders provide an environment filled with trust, empowerment and accountability.

Your advice for women just starting out in your industry?

Start with an end in mind. Know your purpose and why you have selected hospitality among all other fields. The answer must resonate with you and only then will you be able to step towards success. Once you have identified your purpose, have a plan and don’t expect it to be an easy ride. In the beginning you will need to put in the time and the effort to learn and gain experience. At times, you may need to willingly sacrifice family commitments, sleep and personal time to get to where you want to be. But the outcome will be quite rewarding and make you proud of the person that you have become. Last but not least, be visible. Connect with people and tell your story and don’t shy away from gaining the recognition you deserve. Remember, what gets seen gets sold!

Tell us about your background.

I grew up near the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. I’m the eldest sister to four sisters and three brothers. Growing up, I never thought that one day I’d be working in a luxury hotel chain in a leadership role! I hail from the very conservative Al Hboos tribe in RAK. This meant, at that time, me and my sisters would’ve been privileged being allowed to go to school. Credit goes to my mother who supported my education and convinced my father.

Later, convincing my family of my desire to work – and in a hotel at

that – was another interesting experience! What helped me in my journey is that the UAE places a very big focus on education and the involvement of women. It took time for more conservative families to adapt to all the changes but we now see women everywhere, in all specializations, as well as holding key positions in government, the private sector and other areas of life.

What do you love most about your job?

I love to be able to help people and make their lives more purposeful by applying the knowledge, skills and experience that I’ve gained in the span of my life so far. Working in hospitality, especially in HR, makes me fulfil a lot of my values and help people around me feel empowered and ensure they are treated fairly. I also enjoy meeting and talking to people, learning from them and sharing experiences. I believe that God made us all different for this reason; to learn from each other and help each other.

You’ve spent many years with Jumeirah – what is it about the company that makes working for them so rewarding?

I’m proud to be among the very first UAE nationals who joined Jumeirah in 2005 when the Emiratisation programme had just kicked off. I still have that memorial photograph that was taken with Jumeirah’s founding leadership team and the first batch of UAE nationals, which I was part of.

Jumeirah is the place to shine, and I’m proud to be working with talented and diverse people whom I can learn from and share my knowledge with as well. I believe it’s more rewarding to your learning and growth experience to be thriving in a team in such a multicultural environment. You will never be the same person and

the process will help you evolve and learn new things every single day. It is a place where ‘things happen’!

There are some who still believe that the UAE’s women are oppressed – what would you say to dispel this myth?

We first need to agree that we have far too many myths around us in all areas of life.

The common person mostly goes with the established beliefs, lives on conditioning and never makes any effort to acquire and verify information from the right sources. We have these people in every society and country. It is just what it is. It’s the same argument if we say some people here believe that women in the West are immodest. But we all know that this is just another myth or generalisation.

The roles women play in our society, whether in government, business, sports, arts or other emerging fields are well known to all.

At the end of the day, we shouldn’t judge anyone based on their external looks or what they wear, it’s a personal choice. We need to look at any human being, be they man or woman, as an individual with aspirations, contributions, achievements, feelings and stop generalising.

Which of the UAE’s achievements do you feel are the greatest?

I’m proud to be an Emirati woman. Our wise leaders in the UAE have created a land full of opportunities for everyone, be it men or women. Our country is competing on all fronts to be the best, and I believe we as Emiratis have inherited this DNA of excellence and striving to be the best in what we do. Our role now is clearly to take the baton, each in our fields, and carry on with the legacy of excellence.

“Be visible.

Connect with people and tell your story and don’t shy away from gaining the recognition you deserve.”

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Cover story

Nancy Ajram

Centre stage Nancy Ajram reveals what it takes to get to the top, and stay there

BY SOPHIA SERIN

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Cover story

Nancy Ajram

O

Oprah Winfrey described her as the ‘Britney Spears of the Middle East,’ Newsweek named her one of the Arab world’s most influential personalities and with more than 30 million records sold, Nancy Ajram remains the most current of female Arab artists.

Plucked from obscurity 23 years ago on Lebanese reality television show, Noujoum AlMoustakbal (Stars of the Future), Ajram has built an empire on her talent and a chameleon-like ability to transform herself into any character. “I love playing the role given to me by the director. I was always praised for my acting skills and urged to act in a movie or TV series but I don’t think the right time has come yet,” explains Ajram. Brunette, bobbed or with fringes, when asked if there is a secret to her continued success, Ajram simply states: “Hard work.

That’s the secret. Loving what you do and exerting all the efforts you can.” Looking back over her 20-year career, Ajram remains thoughtful of her success and explains, “Every experience in my career is unique and special but of course I have sweet memories from the beginning of my career and how I started and became famous.”

Fast forward 20 years and Ajram is married with two daughters and living out her life minute by minute in front of some 40 million followers on social

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media. Despite the fame, Ajram assures us that her life is normal. “My typical day is like every mother and woman. I start by sending the girls to school and then doing my exercise. I tackle all the commitments that I have next, these are either personal, familial or professional. I have meetings and professional duties, then I fetch the girls from school, help them with their studies and in the evening spend time with my husband after coming back from work.”

The megastar mother admits that juggling her career and family can be a challenge. “It is not easy, really. I do my best to give each one of them their time. I don’t want to neglect my career and my audience, but at the same time I don’t want to neglect my kids and family. Since having children, I’m more anxious and busy. I make all my plans and schedule to be at home for the longest period possible. I travel on the same day of the concert and come back the following day.”

With her superstar smile, tenacious talent and bewildering beauty, it’s easy to get blinded by Ajram’s aura. Stage persona aside, Ajram has been working with under privileged children via her role as the Middle East and North Africa’s Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. “The partnership started in 2009 when UNICEF needed a regional ambassador to support them with their mission and I was chosen as a regional influencer and celebrity. I work with UNICEF on spreading awareness about current issues, helping to present solutions and influencing people to adopt the right trends and directives, especially in the fields of child education and women empowerment.

It is very important for me to participate in the UNICEF work and mission because it concerns me and affects all children and women at a regional level,” explains Ajram.

A little closer to home, Ajram says she will support her children in any vocation. “I hope that my children accomplish all their dreams. Naturally, I support them to bring out their best. If they want to go into the entertainment field and I feel that

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Cover story

Nancy Ajram

Nancy Ajram in a Georges Hobeika gown

“Hard work. That’s the secret of success.

Loving what you do and exerting all the efforts you can. Nothing comes without hard work.

Never divert from the right path. Never take shortcuts. Go up the ladder step by step.” they are talented and can succeed, I will support them. I will never force them to do something they don’t like.”

Taking time out of her busy schedule is a must for Ajram and her family to reconnect and share some quality time together. At home, Ajram enjoys: “sitting by the pool or in the garden, having my coffee or tea and reading a book or listening to music.”

When it comes to jumping on a plane for some serious R&R, Ajram says her favourite destinations are Dubai, Rome and Larnaca. On a recent trip to Dubai, Ajram and her family stayed at Jumeirah Al Naseem. “It was a lovely experience. My family and I had a wonderful time. We visited all the sections of the

hotel, we enjoyed all the services and spent the day at the beach. Everyone was very happy and satisfied.”

Still revelling in the success of the W Maak music video and album Hassa Beek, Ajram will have a video release at the end of the summer in addition to several concerts in the Arab world and Europe. With so many fans waiting (and watching) her every move, Ajram has some tried and tested words of wisdom for those wanting to follow in her famous footsteps: “I would advise them to follow their dreams, work hard and exert all the efforts they can. Nothing comes without hard work. Never divert from the right path. Never take shortcuts. Go up the ladder step by step.”

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Stacks of style Emirati designer Manaal Al Hammadi styles a modern masterpiece of jewels from Chaumet’s Bee my Love collection and Chaumet Liens universe.

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Available at the CHAUMET boutique at The Dubai Mall

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A NIGHT AT THE OPERA

BY R AC H E L S I LV E ST R I

It takes many guises, but there are few art forms as enduring and widely-loved as opera. JUMEIRAH explores the origins of this historic spectacle and the best places to experience it for yourself.

Culture

Opera

T

he warmth of the lights, the soft velvet of the seats and the low, excited hubbub just before the curtain rises – a visit to the opera is a feast for the senses, before the orchestra has struck a single note.

Today, just as it has done for hundreds of years, the opera serves as a cultural touchstone in many societies.

Once the preserve of the elite, opera has slowly modernised and opened up to all social strata. However, this sublime combination of drama, music and poetry has its origins in the very cream of the upper classes. Traditional Chinese song and drama may also be known as opera and has been performed in some form for almost 2000 years. But Western opera as we know it today originated independently in Italy during the 1600s, initially as an effort to recreate ancient Greek dramas – it was erroneously thought that they had been mostly sung.

The development and performance of these lavish productions at royal courts cemented opera’s place as an elite form of entertainment and funded its continued progress. The first opera composer, Jacopo Peri, and the early Italian great

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Monteverdi originated the genre, before it spread to France with Jean-Baptiste Lully and England with Henry Purcell. The great George Frideric Handel composed 30 operas in his career, with Mozart, Beethoven, Wagner and Verdi also achieving acclaim for their operatic compositions.

Translating as ‘work’ in Italian, opera was indeed the peak of many classical composers’ careers. Combining complex musical structures, dense narrative and a flair for the dramatic, authoring an opera was a true test of a composer’s greatness – and still is.

Modern operas from George Gershwin, Igor Stravinsky and Benjamin Britten reached global audiences in the 20th century, right up to John Adams’s Nixon in China which premiered in 1987.

The evolution of opera has seen progressive accessibility, as opera houses recognise the increasing importance of educating the next generation of opera lovers. What has sometimes been criticised as a male-dominated art form – at least in terms of composers, musicians, directors and conductors – has recently become more open to female professionals in the field. Opera has a long history, and as such change is, and should be, gradual. But one thing is for certain – opera is well on its way to being thoughtprovoking entertainment for anyone and everyone.

Where to watch DUBAI Since its opening in April 2016, the global theatre scene’s relative newcomer the Dubai Opera has certainly proven its artistic credentials. With Georges Bizet’s Carmen and Mozart’s The Magic Flute coming to the emirate from 6-8 and 13-15 September respectively, there is so much in store for Middle Eastern opera lovers to enjoy. Right in the heart of Downtown Dubai, its prime location makes it the perfect place for a truly high-end evening of drinking, dining and musical appreciation.

WHERE TO STAY: Jumeirah Emirates Towers. Experience the cuisine of opera’s place of origin at Alta Badia, where Italian favourites and warm hospitality await.

FRANKFURT An opera house in its truest sense, the Oper Frankfurt doesn’t just host dazzling displays of this classic art, but also puts a huge emphasis on opening opera to the masses with its Oper Für Dich – Opera For You – programme. With free childminding during some performances and the specially-priced Opera for Families series, Oper Frankfurt is doing its bit to ensure the passing down of opera appreciation to the next generation. Verdi’s Othello, Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Puccini’s Tosca are set to be the highlights this autumn, Some concerts take place in the classic Alte Oper building, located in the centre of Frankfurt, while others are performed in the modern opera house nearby.

WHERE TO STAY: Jumeirah Frankfurt. With live music every Wednesday, the entertainment at Ember Bar & Lounge may not be as highbrow as at the Alte Oper, but it’ll be a night to remember nonetheless.

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Culture

Opera

SHANGHAI Although Beijing may be betterknown as a centre for the traditional Chinese performing arts, Shanghai’s operatic connections also run deep. The local form of opera, sung in Shanghainese, is called Huju and is still performed at traditional-style weddings and ceremonies. However, for those with more international tastes, a trip to the Shanghai Grand Theatre is in order. Situated in the city’s very heart, in People’s Square, the theatre is home to the Shanghai Opera House troupe and hosts performances of operas both Western and Chinese. So far this year the theatre has seen performances of Nabucco and The Tsar’s Bride, as well as more traditional Pekingstyle oeuvres.

WHERE TO STAY: Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel. Traditional Shanghainese and modern international entertainment await you in the Lobby Lounge, where you can expect the unexpected.

LO N D O N Historically, more than just a place for entertainment, the Opera House was a centre of social interaction and power plays – a connection that was explored in the recent Victoria & Albert Museum exhibition Opera: Passion, Power and Politics. In the autumn season at the Royal Opera House, expect some of opera’s most challenging works – Wagner’s full Der Ring des Nibelungen quadrilogy will be performed in September and October, while Handel’s Solomon and Verdi’s Requiem will also feature.

WHERE TO STAY: Jumeirah Carlton Tower. The award-winning four-course Symphony Afternoon Tea at Chinoiserie brings an orchestral experience to your taste buds as well as ears.

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Art attack

The Royal Academy’s makeover makes it the perfect place to visit this autumn

BY P O L LY P H I L L I P S

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Innovation

Art

CLOCKWISE: The Wohl entrance hall, The Dorfman Senate Room landing, The Benjamin West lecture theatre, The Vaults and Western Bridge and Lovelace Courtyard

E

ven the most beautiful amongst us can benefit from a little freshening up as we get older and the Royal Academy of Arts (RA) is no exception. Over the years, the RA has suffered by comparison to better-known art spaces such as the Tate, the Tate Modern or the National Gallery. But now, fresh from a £56 million makeover to celebrate its 250th anniversary, London’s lesser-known art museum is emerging, thoroughly rejuvenated and ready to take its place in the spotlight as the best place for a cultural fix this autumn. “The experience of the last few years would suggest the imminence of a golden age for the Royal Academy,” commented its President, Christopher Le Brun, as he introduced

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Art

Innovation

the redevelopment, which has increased the gallery’s size by 70 per cent. “The public will experience a new, open and reinvigorated Royal Academy that will sustain our contributing to the world of art and architecture for the next 250 years.”

The redevelopment includes a bridge uniting the gallery’s Burlington House and Burlington Garden sites, opening up a new route between Piccadilly and Mayfair (great news for those looking to combine art with the art of shopping) and providing the gallery with three times more public space than its original footprint. The RA will use the space to expand the dynamic and cutting-edge exhibition and events programme it has become renowned for.

“In 2018, the new Royal Academy will become the most animated cultural campus in central London,” the Royal Academy’s Artistic Director, Tim Marlow, said confidently. “The redevelopment gives us amazing flexibility and capacity to be much more ambitious with our public programming, our exhibitions, learning and debate.”

That ambition shines through in autumn’s programme, which kicks off with the RA Festival of Ideas, running from 7-16 September. Bringing together great minds like Booker Prize winning novelist Howard Jacobson, musician and artist Goldie and artists Gilbert & George, this not-to-be-

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missed 10-day festival will feature creatives sharing their working practices and discussing current cultural, social and political themes.

Meanwhile, following on from the hugely popular ‘Summer Exhibition’, a world-class exhibition that allows members of the public to submit their work to be judged democratically and considered for part of the show, the Royal Academy will be hosting Klimt/Schiele: Drawings from the Albertina Museum, Vienna. Running from November to February next year, this exhibition will comprise of over 100 original works on paper by celebrated figures of contemporary art, Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, many of which have never been seen outside Austria before. Due to their sensitivity to light, these rarely loaned works are unlikely to be exhibited again.

The Academy has also improved its food and beverage options, allowing art aficionados an easy opportunity to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner in the majestic all-day restaurant, or discuss the exhibitions over drinks in the new Senate Room bar.

For those looking to explore further afield, the Royal Academy’s spectacular location means it is ideally placed for the shops and restaurants of Piccadilly. Before the gallery opens, culture vultures might consider starting their mornings breakfasting at the doyenne of the British dining scene, The Wolseley. Described by food critic A.A. Gill as “a meal apart”, The Wolseley has 13 different types of coffee and caters to every taste. It also provides the perfect jumping off point for exploring the winding laneways off the main thoroughfare of Piccadilly, treasure troves filled to the brim with luxury chocolates, exquisite antiques and the finest fashion and jewels. While the Burlington Arcade is perhaps the best known, the Royal Arcade has an ‘olde world’ charm all of its own. From there, a little time can be used to work off any breakfast excesses with a stroll around Green Park – the only one of London’s Royal Parks to consist entirely of unbroken grass (without lakes, sculptures or playgrounds), before meandering up Piccadilly to spend the day at a gallery that proves that some things only get better with age.

THIS PAGE: Works on paper from the collection of the Albertina by Klimt/ Schiele, Oil painting

by Angelica Kauffman, Self portrait of Sir Joshua Reynolds

EXPERIENCE THE ART S C E N E AT JUMEIRAH LOW N D E S H OT E L

LEFT: The Royal Academicians in General Assembly BELOW: Senate café

P

erched just across the park from the Royal Academy of Arts, Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel

provides the perfect place to rest your head after a busy day gallery hopping. This contemporary boutique hotel is also an easy walk from Knightsbridge’s most fashionable boutiques, such as quintessential British department stores, Harrods and Harvey Nichols. The hotel is also rant The Terrace, which gives guests the opportunity to make the most of the balmy autumn climes (with outdoor heating available for colder months) and enjoy lunch and dinner outside. And in its own homage to art, The Terrace will be celebrating acclaimed artist Frida Kahlo, exhibiting at the Victoria and Albert RORY MULVEY, ANA CUBA AND KLIMT/SCHIELE

IMAGES: ROYAL ACADEMY OF ART LONDON. PHOTOS BY: JOHN HAMMOND, SIMON MENGES,

known for its lively al fresco restau-

Museum, with a series of Mexicaninspired floral displays and food and beverage options. Guests who spend more than £30 will be gifted complimentary tickets to the Frida Kahlo: Making Herself Up exhibition if they quote the words ‘Frida Kahlo’ to their server.

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Broad strokes

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Art

Kuwait

Kuwait’s art scene is reinventing itself

BY CON O R PURC ELL

THIS PAGE: A Kuwaiti woman looks at paintings during the opening of Kuwaiti painter Ghadah Alkandari's exhibition titled 'The Yellow Tape' in Sabhan, Kuwait.

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Kuwait

K

uwait has largely been outshone by its regional neighbours when it comes to art. Yet, it was Kuwait that paved the way for the Gulf art scene – it hosted its first public art exhibition way back in 1958. That started a tradition of hosting annual art exhibitions every spring and placed the country at the front and centre of the region’s art scene. The Iraqi invasion in 1990 set the local art scene back decades, and in recent years the city has taken a back seat to its neighbours: Sharjah put on its first biennial in 1993 and Abu Dhabi opened the Louvre last year.

One of the most respected galleries in Kuwait is Dar Al Funoon, which opened in 1994. According to its owner, Lucia Topalian, the art scene in Kuwait was still struggling from the Iraqi invasion. “Many artists at the time were affected by the invasion of 1990-91 and the art scene reflected that. Artists tended to work at home in private studios, independently of galleries and supported by public institutions that advocated the arts. Eventually older galleries began to re-open and new galleries were established.

Today, you find many artist collectives and local public studios that provide the resources to create artwork – there is a stronger sense of community and accessibility for younger artists.”

Like elsewhere in the Gulf, private collectors drive much of the art scene in Kuwait. As Topalian points out: “Private collectors encourage young artists to create more, allowing them to be exposed to international markets. In some cases, private collectors will showcase the artworks in their homes outside of Kuwait, giving the works an opportunity to be housed in international spaces. Their encouragement of younger artists is a huge factor in the cultivation of a local artistic culture.”

Another mainstay in Kuwait’s art scene is the Sultan Gallery. It was re-opened to the public in 2006, by sisters Farida and Najat Sultan, after the first gallery had closed in 1990. “The space we occupy now is part of a factory, which my husband owns, and where I found the perfect loft-like space to re-open in.” The space offers more than just an exhibition space, with various artisans using the space to work in. “We have carpenters who frame the art work, and artisans who work with plaster, steel and wood and can also fabricate their artworks.” One such artist

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is Abdullah Al-Mutairi, who was born in Kuwait in 1990 and now lives between Kuwait and the US. He cites the rise of the internet as just one way the art scene has changed. “The internet has had a big part in shaping how art is produced and consumed. Since the work can be seen online, openings tend to serve a different purpose than they did before. There’s more of a critical approach to art now as well.”

Topalian doesn’t think the fact that places such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi have taken much of the artistic limelight is necessarily a bad thing.

“With Dubai for example, the scope of the works showcased (as well as the galleries themselves) have opened up the eyes of artists and collectors alike.

This has helped shape the way contemporary art is experienced in the Middle East, among both locals and foreigners. The downside, however, is that artlovers and collectors will often neglect the scene in Kuwait in favour of the more commercial art events happening in the UAE, particularly in November and March during the fairs.”

Farida Sultan says that marketing has played a large role in the success of Kuwait’s neighbouring art

Where to go CON T EMPORARY A R T P L AT F O R M A non-profit space, which hosts shows from local and international artists and holds workshops, panel discussions and film screenings. One of the country’s artistic hubs. www.capkuwait.com

S U LTA N G A L L E RY A mainstay of the regional

DA R A L F U N O O N

scene, the gallery was

One of Kuwait’s oldest

initially founded in 1969, but

galleries, Dar Al Funoon has

closed in 1990. It reopened

a reputation as one of the

to the public in 2006 and

most respected in the Gulf.

focuses on contemporary art

Promotes both established

and photography.

and beginning artists and

www.sultangallery.com

has been a wonderful advocate for the local art scene since it opened. www.daralfunoon-kw.com

THE SHEIKH ABDULLAH AL S A L E M C U LT U R A L CENTRE A huge, purpose built cultural centre overlooking the sea, the centre is as spectacular as anything else in the region. With 22 galleries, a host of museums and other attractions, this is helping

LEFT: A 3D-printed sculpture titled Inhumane by Bahraini artist Othman Khunji

put Kuwait back on the region’s cultural map. www.ascckw.com

scenes. “One should not forget the important role branding has as a marketing tool highlighting the achievements of other Gulf countries. Kuwait has never had the need to do it in the past, neither does it employ this method now. I don’t consider it to be a bad thing as it probably allows room for competition and an aspiration for production.”

The opening of the Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Centre earlier this year has helped redress some of that balance. A spectacular building hosting 22 galleries and more than 1,100 exhibits, it also hosts a national history museum, a science museum, a museum of Islamic history, a space museum, a fine arts centre and a theatre.

It points the way towards a bright future for the country’s art scene – although both artists and gallery owners would like there to be more engagement with the authorities. “I would like to see more critical engagement in art,” says Al-Mutairi.

“The resources are available, so it’s a matter of drive at this point to push people out of a complacency.”

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Innovation

Space

Sky-high ambition

The first Emirati astronaut is scheduled for lift off in April 2019. This historic moment will also showcase just how far the UAE National Space Programme has come in a short time

BY G U I D O D U K E N

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Space

O

n 12 April 1961, Russian cosmonaut Yuri story of the country’s glorious legacy,” he said. The 95 finalists are Gagarin became the first human in now undergoing an intensive training programme where they will space aboard the Vostok 3KA-3. Two become skilled in robotics, navigation, medical aid and resource years later, Soviet cosmonaut Valentina management. They will also have to learn Russian. After two to Tereshkova became the first woman four weeks the four final candidates, as well as two reservists will in space, orbiting the Earth 48 times in be selected. This will be followed by more mission-specific training.

A 10-day mission requires eight to nine months of training, the Vostok 6 capsule. It took another 22 years before Sultan bin Salman Al Saud according to Al Mansoori. MBRSC is working with international entered the history books in 1985 by becoming the first Muslim, entities to facilitate the training, which includes the United States’ National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Arab, Saudi and royal astronaut.

The countdown is now on for April 2019 when the first Emirati European Space Agency and Roscosmos.

“Selecting and training Emirati astronauts is crucial to the astronaut will be launched into space on Russia’s Soyuz-MS for a 10-day-long mission aboard the International Space Station success of the UAE Space Programme. The selected astronauts will participate in scientific research (ISS). The launch date was confirmed in programmes that will serve humanity July this year when the Mohammed Bin and help develop the UAE space sector in Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) signed an the future,” said Al Mansoori. agreement with Russia’s Roscosmos State The first Emirati in space will be a Corporation for Space Activities. historic moment for the UAE, but it is Speaking about the historic pact, symbolic of far greater aspirations. The His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin UAE’s Space Programme supports the Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and objectives of the ‘UAE Centennial 2071’, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler which focuses on the development of of Dubai, said that sending the first futuristic sciences across various sectors Emirati astronaut to space will herald the including innovation, space, engineering beginning of a new era for the UAE. and medicine. The knowledge gained “The journey that we started 12 years from the upcoming mission is also an ago is beginning to bear fruit. Our vision important step in advancing the UAE’s to develop the national space sector is future space ambitions, which include being realised with the development building the first inhabitable human of a spacecraft, the construction of settlement on Mars as part of the 2117 our first local satellite manufacturing Mars project. facility, the training being given to Dr Mohammed Al Ahbabi, DirectorEmirati astronauts, and the launch of a General of the UAE Space Agency, said: comprehensive scientific and research “What’s unique about this programme is programme. We will celebrate the 50th not just to send a visitor to space – it is anniversary of the UAE in 2021, and we a sustainable programme that will open will gift these accomplishments to our doors for missions, including those to the future generations so that their dreams moon and Mars. This is the first step in will always start from the sky.” the UAE’s 100-year Mars programme.”

The Emirati astronaut aboard the The pace at which the UAE’s Space Soyuz-MS will blast off into history and Programme is moving is emblematic see a dream fulfilled. It will also mark the of the country’s drive and aspirations. culmination of a long selection process When the UAE National Space and rigorous training programme.

Programme was announced in April The United Arab Emirates has TOP: Russia's Soyuz-Ms will carry the UAE's first 2017, it included the aim of sending an no shortage of eager astronauts. The astronaut to the International Space Station.

ABOVE: The Emirati astronaut candidates are Emirati into space by 2021. If the launch UAE Astronaut Programme, which was being trained to rigorous international standards. takes place as scheduled in April 2019, launched in December 2017 and was open the UAE will have moved from concept for registrations until March this year, attracted 4,022 applicants. More than 200 candidates were initially to realisation in two years. Later this year, KhalifaSat will be longlisted. They then took psychometric tests that analysed IQ, launched from South Korea. This 350kg Earth observation emotional stability and adaptability, resulting in the final shortlist satellite is the first to be entirely designed and built in the UAE of 95. Of these 75 are male and 20 female, aged between 23 and by Emirati engineers without foreign assistance. KhalifaSat, 48 years old. The candidates have backgrounds in aviation, the together with the success of the Arab world’s first astronaut programme, signifies the establishment of a fully-fledged space military, medicine, science, technology and education.

Hamad Al Mansoori, Chairman of MBRSC, said everyone was sector in the UAE. As of January 2018, 230 individuals from 18 countries had visited the International Space Station. This means delighted by the calibre of the applicants.

“The qualified candidates represent the future of the UAE and the UAE is set to join an exclusive club next year, reflecting the reflect this generations’ aspirations to shape a future that tells the country’s sky-high ambitions.

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LEFT: Space travel has evolved since the first moon landing in 1969 BELLOW: KhalifaSat is due to be launched later this year from South Korea.

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A B U D HA B I

BA HR A IN

DUB AI

FR ANKFURT

K U WAI T

JOY

W H E N M O M E N TS L A S T F OR E V E R

jumeirah.com

LONDO N

M A L DIV E S

MALLORCA

SH ANG H AI

Travel

Dubai Creek

River of dreams

Dubai’s historic creek has been a centre of development and trade for centuries – and even today the area continues to evolve. JUMEIRAH looks back on how this humble waterway set the emirate on a flourishing course B Y R AC H E L S I LV E ST R I

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Travel

Dubai Creek

W

e’ve all heard a similar refrain – the oft-repeated myth that Dubai is a new city which evolved in the 1980s. But a stroll beside the emirate’s colourful creek will dissolve that notion into its shimmering, historic waters.

Dubai has a history, and a fascinating one at that. It centres around the creek, where Dubai’s forefathers learned the importance of trade, enterprise and caring for their people – lessons that have endured and made the emirate the modern metropolis that’s known worldwide today.

If it’s ancient history that interests you, artefacts from an Iron Age metalworking site in Dubai’s Rub Al-Khaili desert can be viewed at Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeology Museum, situated in the creekside Shindagha Heritage District. The museum tells the story of Dubai’s earliest inhabitants – but the surrounding district is where the tale continues.

Dubai’s early trade centred around the Arabian Gulf – fishing and pearl diving were the fledgling hub’s chief business and supported local populations, as well as facilitating trade with Iran, India and East Africa. The natural harbour provided by the creek was the ideal location for this trade to take place, providing shelter for dhows and ships that would eventually bring prosperity to the region.

Traders made their home on the Bur Dubai bank of the creek and named their bright white and wind tower-dotted district Bastakiya. The area still exists, also known as the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, although now instead of housing pearl traders it’s home to vibrant art galleries, cafés and museums. Named for the nearby Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai’s oldest building and home to the Dubai Museum, this is the ideal place to take a stroll into the emirate’s earliest days When members of the Bani Yas tribe, led by the Maktoum family, settled at the mouth of the creek in 1833, it cemented the area’s importance as a centre of commerce. At the turn of the 20th century, the Deira side of the creek was home to the region’s largest souk and by the 1950s an ambitious plan to dredge the creek combated silting, most likely caused by the increasing volume of water traffic. In turn, this forward-thinking move allowed even more ships to find their way into Dubai, further boosting the area’s economy and increasing the population.

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ABOVE: Art Dubai exhibition LEFT: The popular abra (boat) ferrying people across the creek

Many of the souks that sprung up in those early days remain today – you can still find a bustling textile souk, fragrant spice souk, glittering gold souk and the atmospheric old souk just steps away from the banks of the creek on both the Bur Dubai and Deira sides. Fortunately, there’s a number of ways to cross the broad waterway – and for shoppers travelling on foot, the oldest method remains the best.

Traditional abras plied their business as water taxis from Dubai’s earliest years, ferrying passengers from Bur Dubai to Deira and back again – and despite the development of cross-creek bridges and the Shindagha Tunnel, they still do a roaring trade to this day. An abra trip is as much about the journey as the destination.

From its inlet at the Deira Corniche, the creek winds its way past Al Shindagha, Port Saeed and the extensive Dubai Creek Park. The original ending of the waterway is the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, where native mangroves provide a home for a stunning array of birds, including the spectacular sight of flamingos in their natural habitat. However, in 2007 a bold new creek extension was completed,

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Travel

Dubai Creek

A fresh take

CREEKSIDE CHIC

Looking to the creek’s future, Zabeel House Al Seef by Jumeirah is an exciting new hotel experience set to breathe life into this historic area. It’s the first hotel

House the perfect fit for the

J

vibrant Al Seef development. Add

are anything but.

in Jumeirah’s brand new collec-

umeirah Creekside Hotel

tion and features contemporary

overlooks Dubai’s famed

design, a relaxed atmosphere and

waterway and has a good

realistic pricing, making Zabeel

old-fashioned approach to

hospitality, yet its looks and facilities

to that Zabeel House MINI Al Seef

Concrete, steel and glass archi-

by Jumeirah right next door – a

tecture gives this property a pol-

baby sister hotel that delivers the

ished, minimalist feel more often

same style and comfort at a lower

found in the loft-style hotels of

price point – and this pair of prop-

New York and London. Along with

erties is a perfect addition to the

more than 480 striking contem-

creek’s modern new incarnation.

porary art pieces and cool, sleek design, the bespoke Arabian-style approach to hospitality that’s the hallmark of all Jumeirah properties is very much present.

Whether savouring the international flavours at Nomad or taking in the creek views from Latin rooftop lounge Cu-ba, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel has something for every traveller – whether you’ve just stepped off a long-haul flight or a more down-to-earth abra crossing.

TOP: Zabeel House Al Seef by Jumeirah ABOVE: Jumeirah Creekside Hotel RIGHT: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

leading the waterway to snake past the Downtown Dubai and Business Bay areas, before a final 2016 extension, known as the Dubai Canal, completed the creek’s loop through Safa Park and Jumeirah 2 and back into the Arabian Gulf.

On the creek’s original stretch, the recent opening of the Al Seef leisure development – located near Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – takes the spirit of the area’s historic buildings and melds it with modern shopping and sightseeing. Still, nothing is as atmospheric as a trip to the original souks where Dubai’s traders of old forged the future of this now-booming Emirate. So, wherever you find yourself on the creek, take a moment to appreciate how these humble waters changed the fortunes of a whole region – and, indeed, the world.

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Health

Living

Checking in to a hotel doesn’t mean you have to check out of your daily health routine.

The Madinat Jumeirah’s wellness experts tell us how

the programme

BY SO P HI A S E R I N

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Health

Living

I

f you know your kale from your kombucha then its more than likely you live on the healthier side of life which is good news for your waistline, health and the planet.

Being able to live the lifestyle you do at home on holiday is certainly a challenge.

Faced with overzealous buffets, all you can eat everything and the general feeling of having a ‘break’ can be a challenge for even the keenest health nut.

Gabriele Kurz, Director Nutrition Operations Culinary at Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts is an awarded chef, cookbook author, nutrition and healthy lifestyle expert who has revolutionised the way we can eat whilst on holiday. She has been the driving force in offering healthy options for those guests wishing to walk on the wellness side. “At Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts we embrace the culture of eating well and offer a variety of healthier menu options, not only a la carte but also on our buffets.

We created an icon for these healthier, nutritionally well-balanced dishes and beverages, highlighting the Jumeirah Flavours of Health. We also have (in Madinat Jumeirah Resort) the Culinary Concierge, a dedicated person to assist guests with their dietary requirements. As the representative for the guests’ dietary needs and food preferences, the Culinary Concierge arranges ‘safe’ dining options throughout the group by personalised communication and booking” explains Kurz.

In addition to round the clock healthy eating options, the Madinat Jumeirah gym complex Talise Fitness, is open 24 hours a day for those who want to workout whenever the mood (or time zone) strikes them. In addition to unlimited access to the gym (which is included in your room rate) Matthew Graham, General Manager, Talise Fitness says: “We have a number of different services available depending on your aspirations. We have an excellent Group Fitness programme with over 100 classes per week. Classes include the internationally recognised Les Mills programmes like Body Pump and RPM plus a wide variety of other classes focusing on different types of training including HIIT, Cardio, Shape and Body & Mind. If you are in Dubai on a business trip it is likely that your time is limited. We have 30-minute classes such as Les Mills Sprint and GRIT, which allow you to get in and out of the gym quickly whilst still maintaining your active lifestyle. We also run Virtual group fitness classes at the non-peak hours late into the evening to give you options at any time of the day.”

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M AT T H E W G R A H A M ’S

Top tips F O R WO R K I N G O U T W H I L ST O N H O L I DAY 1. Have a bigger consideration for energy in versus energy out and live a little (but not too much!)

2. Come and speak to the team at Talise Fitness for your complimentary training programme 3. Try out one of our Group Fitness Classes, which are fun and give you a chance to connect with other hotel guests and Talise Fitness members 4. Give my personal favourite post workout recovery drink a try at Talise Café two scoops of clean lean protein, almond milk and a banana. Enjoy!

The best apps AC C O R D I N G TO V I J AY S H A R M A 1. Global Yoga Academy 2. Universal Breathing – Pranayama 3. 5-minute Yoga

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Health

Living

Another kind of fitness that we need to factor in to our wellness routine is our mental one.

We all know the benefits of having a healthy mind are enormous, but how important are they to our overall health? Dedicating his days to making people reach their full potential with his teachings, Madinat Jumeirah‘s resident Yogi, Reiki Master and Talise Spa Wellbeing Consultant, Vijay Sharma explains: “When we feel trim and healthy, we are full of confidence and our mind is healthier. We can think in a better and more positive way. Stop worrying about the little, insignificant things - enjoy your life, have a positive attitude, be happy, and your body and mind will definitely thank you.”

The lead Yoga teacher at Madinat Jumeirah for over a decade, Sharma says his most popular classes take place on the beach. “Our sunset yoga is very popular. Practicing yoga on the beach is always amazing for the student and teacher. When yogis do yoga on the beachfront with the sound of the waves, it relaxes the mind and body. Fresh air helps to release the stress from the muscles and the sound of nature around you helps your mind get set for meditation.” When guests come to see Sharma, their main concern is always, “to relax the mind and be physically fit,” says Sharma adding, “when we start yoga and meditation it connects our body, mind and soul. I also suggest other activities like laughing with family and friends, proper breathing, a morning walk, eat more vegetarian food, drink green juices and go swimming. These are activities you can do at home. It’s very easy to be happy and healthy.

For more information, go to Jumeirah.com or talisefitness.com

Gabriele Kurz is an award-winning chef, cookbook author, nutrition and lifestyle expert

Gabrielle Kurz recommends...

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Talise Spa in Madinat

Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al

Screening at DNA Clinic, the

detoxification, with nutritionally

Jumeirah Resort ‘The

Qasr introduces wellness

guest’s health status will be

balanced and tasty food.

Wellscape’ programme

experiences with 3, 7 or

analysed to create individual

The 10-day programme also

The programme assists with

10-day programmes

treatment plans for long-term

incorporates the Alphasphere

detoxification and rejuvenation

The programmes aim to change

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the mindset for a healthy

lunch and dinner will either

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relaxation and rejuvenation) in

and a busy lifestyle can weaken

exercising regularly and keeping

room or served at select

addition to other treatments.

the immune system and build

the mind relaxed. With the help

restaurants within the resort,

For more information email:

up toxins in the body.

of the latest Smart Wellness

providing excellent support in

mjtalise@jumeirah.com

JUMEIRAH MAGAZINE

Every summer has a story.

Now yours can have 90 different ones to tell. jumeirah.com/90ways

Gourmet

Fine dining

Top tables

LONDON

Child’s play When you book the exclusive

Michelin stars, sumptuous ingredients and the ultimate in discreet service – Jumeirah’s global selection of the most exclusive and unique dining options is the crème de la crème

Family Fun package at Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel, your children will be treated to their very own toy butler and a hand-picked age-appropriate selection of the latest toys, books, crafts and games for them to enjoy throughout their stay. While you indulge

B Y R AC H E L S I LV E ST R I

in your smoked salmon sandwiches and traditional scones with clotted cream, the toy butler will pick the perfect playtime spot, set up some classic outdoor pastimes and, when the fun is over, box it all back up and deliver it to your room for you to play with later, come rain or shine. The toy box also includes child-sized tennis racquets for use at Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel’s private tennis courts. What could be more luxe than that?

Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel; the Family Fun package includes full English breakfast, toy box, British picnic, Jumeirah bear, VIP kids’ amenities, bedtime milk and cookies treat and complimentary access to The Peak Health & Fitness Club & Spa at Jumeirah Carlton Tower.

Royal touch TOP: Shang-High, Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel Shanghai

SHANGHAI

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Jumeirah Carlton Tower’s Rib Room Bar & Restaurant has a great history and pedigree, and so do the carefully-sourced ingredi-

Starry, starry night

your table to introduce every

At Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel

off with a platter of traditional

follow it up with Donald Russell’s

Shanghai’s Michelin-starred

Shanghainese desserts,

rib of beef – both suppliers are

restaurant, Shang-High Cuisine,

including pan-fried red bean

Royal Warrant holders, producing

they know a thing or two about

pancake, green tea puff, radish

salmon and beef for Her Majesty

innovative dining. But to really

puff and a pumpkin dessert

Queen Elizabeth II herself. If you

get the most stardust for your

– with a twist. Chef Frank’s

want to find out how the other

buck, why not invest in a Chef’s

Michelin-standard cuisine will

half eats, this is the place.

Table experience with Executive

keep you guessing until the very

Jumeirah Carlton Tower; Rib

Chef Frank Hu? Preparing a

last delicious bite.

Room Bar & Restaurant, Scottish

menu tailored to your tastes,

Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel

salmon from John Ross Junior

but still in standout Shang-High

Shanghai; Shang-High Cuisine,

of Aberdeen and rib of beef from

style, the chef will come to

Chef ’s Table

Donald Russell.

JUMEIRAH MAGAZINE

ingredient in your dish. You can expect six courses of the most incredible morsels, finished

RIGHT PAGE: Table setting at Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel, London

ents used in its standout dishes.

For a taste of the good life, order Scottish salmon supplied by John Ross Junior of Aberdeen, and

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Gourmet

Fine dining M A L LO R CA

The suite life A bespoke three-course dinner

the making. With sweeping views

created exclusively for you by your

over the blue Balearic sea and a

own personal chef, a butler to serve it

whole host of luxe home comforts,

with specially-selected wine pairings…

Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel & Spa’s

And all this without having to leave

suites are havens of comfort. When

your plush private suite? Sounds

you book the Signature Suite Dining

like a once-in-a-lifetime evening in

Experience, you take things up a

notch with a bottle of champagne on arrival, a personalised dinner menu, and private chef and butler to cater to your every need. Sweet indeed.

Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel & Spa; Signature Suite Dining Experience.

ABU DHABI

Triple crown With incredible 360-degree views of Abu Dhabi’s sparkling skyline and the serene Arabian Gulf, Ray’s Grill is a contemporary steakhouse offering high-end dining in the heart of the UAE capital.

Private dining options, a huge selection of fine international beef and innovative cocktails make this eatery a must-visit.

For the ultimate in steakhouse sophistication look no further than Ray’s flavourful and intensely marbled master Kobe tenderloin – with an incredible marbling score of nine. Ask to have it served topped with foie gras and Canadian lobster for a princely dish to beat all others.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers; Ray’s Grill

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MALDIVES

Barefoot luxe If the ultimate in exclusivity is what you’re after then how about a picnic on an island that nobody has ever set foot on – and never will again. An afternoon on a sandbank that appears and disappears with the tide means that you’ll have a unique experience, lasting just as long as your private island does. Snack on scrumptious morsels, laze on the white sands and meet the island’s colourful aquatic neighbours while you take a snorkel. The island may disappear once the tide rises, but your memories will last forever.

Jumeirah Vittaveli; Destination Dining – Sandbank Picnic

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Gourmet

Fine dining

DUBAI

Under the stars A private beach, a breezy white tent, four courses of sumptuous seafood and hours to while away under a twinkling sky – this is beachside romance at its finest.

With a bouquet of flowers to delight your loved one, some French bubbles and a personal waiter to see too your every need, dinner on the beach at Jumeirah Al Qasr will enchant you with culinary mastery and romance in equal measure. You can even add a romantic abra tour to your evening or have a candle-lit message spelled out in the sand – after all, on a night as magical as this, anything is possible.

Jumeirah Al Qasr; Romantic Dinner on the Beach

The life aquatic The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah’s name is synonymous with luxury,

be an otherworldly experience.

Beachside bliss

Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara’s

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is

private dining rooms has an

a beautiful recreation of a

ethereal under-the-sea feel, which

traditional Ottoman palace, and

sets the tone for a truly dazzling

there can be no better place

culinary experience. Take a seat

to play prince and princess

at your four-metre-long dining

for the evening than on the

table, strewn with rose petals,

hotel’s pristine private beach.

and prepare for six courses of

Overlooking the Palm Jumeirah

signature masterpieces. Your

and ensconced in your private

personal waiter and sommelier

gazebo, enjoy a four-course

will look after every detail, while

gourmet dinner complete with

you gaze into the enchanting

butler to oversee the smooth

aquarium – and wait for a diver

running of your evening. This

to appear with your personalised

experience can be tailored to

message for your loved one. For

accommodate any detail you

an unexpected dinner with some

desire, so let your imagination

real ‘wow’ factor, then this is it.

run wild for an evening of

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah;

decadence.

Romantic Dinners at Nathan

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray; Romantic

Outlaw at Al Mahara

Dinner on the Beach

so a special event at this most iconic of Dubai’s locations will

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ABOVE: Gazebo dining at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

JUMEIRAH MAGAZINE

Summer, and the family have gone adventuring around cooler climes, leaving you Dad, alone at home.

Dads Alone can unite and enjoy great deals at great restaurants throughout the summer. Whether you are a burger man or a taco man, you can say “yes� because no-one is counting how many times you eat out.

Dads Alone, you are among friends here.

jumeirah.com/dadsalone

Gourmet

Fine dining

FRANKFURT

ABOVE: Perfect Meat Academy at Jumeirah Frankfurt

Beef up your knowledge

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They say that every day’s a

you can take a masterclass in

school day – and at Jumeirah

grilling, smoking, basting and

Frankfurt you have the

charring from Otto Gourmet’s

opportunity to learn some meaty

Perfect Meat Academy. Once

tricks of the trade from the

you’ve got your creative juices

best of the best. Otto Gourmet

flowing, you can kick back with a

is a family-run business that

four-course menu that you had

supplies Germany’s top chefs

a hand in creating – along with

and restaurants – Jumeirah

accompanying champagne, wine

Frankfurt’s Max on One Grillroom

and soft drinks. An incredible

included – with its incredible

experience usually reserved for

meat. It also trains chefs in how

the industry’s top pros.

to get the best from their prime

Jumeirah Frankfurt;

cuts, and at Jumeirah Frankfurt

Perfect Meat Academy

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Featured spaces The Lobby Lounge, Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel, Shanghai

L

ocated in the heart of Pudong, The Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel is the perfect place whether you are in town for business or leisure. At night the building, designed by renowned architect Arata Isozaki, looks like a giant red sparkling cube and is a sight to behold.

The lobby of the hotel is rooted in the local culture and as soon as you enter its doors you are greeted by the antique pagoda, carved in African rosewood and encapsulated in a palatial space that feels like an art gallery. The pagoda dates back to the Qing dynasty which is over 300 years old. The walls of the 16-metre-high lobby are adorned with original art pieces and a wander around it reveals awe-inspiring artefacts. The ceiling which has a 260 square metre LED screen changes to reflect the beauty of the sky at different times of the day. The calligraphy on the upper wall of the lobby is the famous

1,000-character Chinese poem, written by a Tang Dynasty monk around 1,200 years ago.

The essay, which consists of 250 phrases of four characters each, has since become one of the most popular literary texts in China.

For over 2,000 years, the Chinese have used incense in their daily life and regard it as one of the highest Chinese art forms.

Specially designed in accordance with the contemporary luxury Chinese setting of the Jumeirah Lobby, a ceremony is performed at sunset by three female practitioners all dressed in traditional Han costumes. Each step and gesture taken during the ceremony is designed to reflect human respect and appreciation for nature.

The Lobby Lounge in Jumeirah Himalayas Hotel Shanghai is open throughout the day. You can walk in anytime you feel like socialising in an art environment, and sip on different varieties of Chinese teas. No reservations are required.

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Globetrotter

CHANDLER BURR

Chandler Burr has progressed from writing about scents to being part of the creative process. Jumeirah caught up with him at The Art of Scent 1889-2012 exhibition in Dubai How did working for The New York Times as a Perfume Critic transform your career?

I was a reporter writing about economics and politics. On the Eurostar I met, by complete chance, a French-Italian scientist who was a genius of perfume and suddenly I was writing a book about him, The Emperor of Scent. That led to a New Yorker piece, then another book The Perfect Scent, for which I spent a year behind the scenes at Hermès watching the creation of the fragrance Un Jardin Sur Le Nil. That led to the position of the New York Times scent critic. I feel very lucky and still, sometimes, surprised.

Has perfume always been considered an art form?

Scent became an art medium in 1892 or ’93 or ’94, no one is exactly sure of the date when the artist Paul Parquet used, for the first time, artificial scent. Indeed, the name of the work, Fougère Royale (Royal Fern), illustrates perfectly that scent had become an art medium because, as Parquet pointed out, the work was a lie: ferns have no scent. Parquet noted that his work was an extremely intricate, complex portrait – a work that required technique, mastery of materials, aesthetics and a subjective point of view like all works of art of something that didn’t exist. From that moment on, scent became an art medium equal to paint, clay, music, film. There are works of scent created in every aesthetic and artistic school, Romanticism (Jicky) and Abstract Expressionism (l’Interdit) to Industrialism (Drakkar Noir) and Photorealism (Eau de Lierre.

You have been all around the world hosting ‘Scent Dinners’. Does each dinner differ depending on where you are in the world?

Where we are creating the dinners doesn’t change the dinners at all. What determines the dinners are the chefs! I’ve worked with chefs in Rome, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo and

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Santa Fe and they were respectively Italian, English, Danish, and Mexican-American.

It was their training, style and approach to cuisine that determined the dinners.

What do you find most interesting about Dubai?

Dubai is fascinating to me for one specific reason: It’s an astonishing experiment in the transformation of human culture in.

There is every culture, language, religion and nationality – yet everyone lives in

The Art of Scent exhibition at the Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall.

“Dubai, in which scent is a part of culture, is the natural place for the Dubai Museum of Scent Art and Design.”

complete harmony. What HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has created here is a first in human history.

How does Dubai differ culturally from New York?

Dubai is more controlled than New York, but the productive collisions of cultures and ideas happens in both cities all the time. We’re working on creating the Dubai Museum of Scent Art and Design, for example. Dubai, in which scent is a fundamental part of the culture both in its ancient origins and in its life today, is the natural place for it.

What is your favourite scent?

Two years ago, Etienne de Swardt of Etat Libre d’Orange asked me to creatively direct a fragrance for his collection. I worked with masterful perfumer Caroline Sabas, and the scent of the perfume – called You or Someone Like You – is substantially ginger and mint.

How did The Art of Scent exhibition come to life and why bring it to Dubai?

The Art of Scent 1889-2012, the exhibition that I curated at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York, was an extension of the work I’d done for five years at the Times. I was an art critic - criticism is fun (for the most part) and interesting to write - but I wanted to construct, to present scent as an art medium in another context. Hence the exhibition. The staff of Perfumery & Co. had heard about the New York exhibition, they called me, and that’s how we curated the Dubai edition.

How did you go about curating the Art of Scent exhibit for Perfumery & Co at The Dubai Mall? What were your inspirations?

There’s an extraordinarily simple principle guiding the selection: I chose 11 works that I felt were aesthetically important and innovative, that showed excellent mastery of technical skill in the art form and that were structurally solid.

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