What's On | July 2011

Issue 399

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July 2011

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WIN WIN WIN!

A luxury break in Tanzania (flights included), a BlackBerry PlayBook and drinks at Hopfest

ALSO INSIDE: 25 things to do this summer, our verdict on The Ivy and Dubai’s top pool halls

PLUS!

The best of the UAE online, ice creams tested, Catboy talks Twitter and the top ten of everything!

Contents Features 15 Made in Dubai Forget the big international brands and chain stores, and enjoy our celebration of the best shops, businesses, restaurants and cultural delights born right here in the UAE 20 Your summer sorted Whether you’re a foodie, a luxury lover, a culture vulture, a sports fan or a parent looking to keep your little darlings busy this summer, we have an activity for you

25 Hopping mad All you need to know to have a good time at the seventh annual Hop Fest at The Irish Village 26 UAE online Turn on your computer, turn up the air conditioning and delve into our round-up of the best local apps, regional online stores and blogs in the UAE 29 Dubai’s best pool halls What better time than summer to chalk up your cue, head down to your local pool hall and shoot a few frames with your pals

p15

p29 JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 3

The round up 8 Salaam July in a handful of pages, packed with what’s hot and what’s not, Geordie Bird visits Republique at The Address Dubai Mall, a chef’s guide to the UAE, plus enough stats, facts and news to blow your tiny minds

51 Shopping Update your wardrobe with swaps from My Ex Wardrobe, purchase those summer essentials and our style guru, Sophia, quells your sartorial woes. Plus this month’s new openings 59 Mind & body Turkish and Brazilian treatments, J-Lo’s eyebrows, electrotherapy, his ‘n’ hers at The Address Dubai Marina and the latest spa deals

13 Win, win, win The first of two pages populated with lots of lovely competitions. For more, turn to page 79 30 Film All the latest movies hitting screens in the UAE, including the final instalment in the Harry Potter series, Nicole Kidman in Rabbit Hole, Gossip Girl’s Leighton Meester on holiday in Monte Carlo and Robert Redford’s The Conspirator – plus Honey 2, 5 Days Of August and Conviction

two new brunches. Plus afternoon teas, our new monthly Twitter recipe and, of course, the latest opinion from The Critic

33 Eating out We put the UAE’s best ice creams to the test, present you with our verdict on global big boys The Ivy and Royal China, enjoy a spot of lunch at Emirates Golf Club’s M’s and sample

43 Arts Singing along to summer musicals, purchasing affordable art at Third Line, buying advice from The Insider and five exhibitions you simply must see

65 Sport & outdoor We learn to swim, test the latest running shoes and bring you Mr Fitness’ answers to your health and fitness queries

p59

70 Music Prog rockers EYE (that’s e-why-e) are our band of the month, plus three live music nights 72 Club diary The best of the UAE's nightlife

p33

75 Travel A concise guide to the Frankfurt Book Fair, summer travel deals and Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa GM, Arne Silvis, lets slip his travel secrets 81 Hot list The definitive monthly guide to the ten best bars, restaurants, brunches and spas in Dubai

p30 4 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

p43

98 Backchat The monthly missive from Dubai 92’s Catboy

This month we’ve been...

Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer Group Editor & Managing Partner lan Fairservice Group Senior Editor Gina Johnson | gina@motivate.ae Senior Editor Mark Evans | marke@motivate.ae Deputy Editor Helen Spearman | helen@motivate.ae Features & Food Editor Gareth Rees | gareth@motivate.ae Features Editor Abu Dhabi Adam Workman | adam@motivate.ae Staff Writer Matt Priest | matthew@motivate.ae Chief Sub Editor Iain Smith | iains@motivate.ae Senior Designer Sheila Cariño-Deocareza | sheila@motivate.ae Editorial Co-ordinator Concessaa D’souza | concessa@motivate.ae Picture Researcher – Gulfpics Wayne Fernandez | wayne@motivate.ae Contributors Victor Besa, James Brennan, Louise Browne, Stef Burgon, Vikram Gawde, James Houghton, Catherine Jarvie, Charles Pocock, Mark Powell, Farooq Salik, Simon Smedley, Sophia Serin, Paul Sterry General Manager Production and Circulation S Sasidharan | sasidharan@motivate.ae Senior Production Manager Sunil Kumar | sunil@motivate.ae Production Manager Sudhakar Chandran | sudhakar@motivate.ae Production Supervisor Murali Krishnan | muralik@motivate.ae General Manager – Group Sales Anthony Milne | anthony@motivate.ae Group Advertisement Manager Dale Isaac | dale@motivate.ae Advertisement Manager Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae General Manager, Abu Dhabi Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae Senior Advertisement Manager, Abu Dhabi Darryl Wiley | darryl@motivate.ae Senior Sales Executive, Abu Dhabi Hamdan Bawazir | hamdan@motivate.ae Annual Subscription GCC Dhs120 other countries US$70 (including Airmail charges)

Head Office: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436, 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

Learning to swim, p66

Testing ice creams, p35

Exploring independent shops, p15

Editor’s note You don’t need me to tell you that, in some quarters, Dubai can take a bit of a bashing. Type the word ‘Dubai’ in Google, and it won’t be long before someone or other’s written assassination of the emirate pops up, usually when they’re on a flying visit (one writer managed it from no more than a four-hour trip aboard the Big Bus Tour), and usually taking the same tact – ‘Dubai is so not New York. Dubai is so not London.’

And while, quite clearly, we’re not New York or London, and, yes, I’m sure there are lots of things that you, me and everyone could point out that need changing, there are positives, too, and plenty of them. (I read AA Gill’s words of “It’s a holiday resort with the worst climate in the world” in Vanity Fair while I was lying at the pool thinking he’d obviously never made it to my hometown of Sunderland, where it’s mostly either cold or colder). As a magazine, What’s On exists to point out just a few of those positives, and to help you have a good time. Living in Dubai is fun, we enjoy it, and while we appreciate it’s not for everyone, there are plenty of us here that do rather like it.

This issue we celebrate some of Dubai’s own; the shops, restaurants, art spaces and more, all created and run in Dubai, by Dubai-based people. Dubai people like you, and me, who still call Dubai, despite its faults, home.

Enjoy the issue.

Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124, 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

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 7

We're officially part of the Twitterati.

Follow us at WhatsOnDubai for exclusive updates on nightlife, restaurants and more around the UAE. Tweet yourself.

Salaam!

SALAAM

July's news, knowledge and rumours

What’s hot NEW HIGHWAY The new 45km long DubaiFujairah highway will open by the end of this month.

Guess list

10%

PRICE FREEZE The Economy Ministry has frozen the price of food until the end of the year, in order to combat the rising global cost of food. Time to go wild in the aisles.

ROLLING STONES No longer the athletes they once were, maybe, but according to our well-informed snitches, Mick and the boys will be strutting their stuff on stage at the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix.

Fact: summer is hot.

But not as hot as these rumours

35%

CHEAP ROAMING The Telecommunication Regulatory Authority have decided to cut phone roaming charges within the GCC region by 30 per cent as of this month.

What’s not CASH STRAPPED Effects of the recession rumble on as the purse strings for the proposed Dubailand are being tightened, according to analysts BMI. NO RALLY The motor sport governing body, the FIA, has rejected Abu Dhabi’s proposal to host a race during the 2012 World Rally Championship season.

FOUL PLAY FIFA is investigating ‘sporting irregularities’ during a match held in the UAE earlier this year between Kuwait and Jordan.

8 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

SNOW PATROL OK, so we've mentioned the Irish indie rockers before. But it's a rumour that just won't go away. We hear the lads will, finally, hit a stage near you later this year. And this time, we think it just might happen.

THIS MONTH WE'RE GOING TO...

55%

UFC A loose-tongued insider in the world of sports promotion let slip to us that we’re in for yet more fighting mayhem, as the Ultimate Fighting circus lines up another visit to the UAE’s shores.

MOVIES AND MUNCHIES NIGHT Every Wednesday in July Desert Palm will be screening two films in their outdoor pool.

Desert Palm, Al Awir Road, Dubai, Wed from 7pm, Dhs30. Tel: (04) 3238888. www.desertpalm.ae

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Franck Detrait, head chef, Traiteur, Park Hyatt Dubai

Produce

I always try to go to local markets, the fish market and the fruit and vegetable market and, even though I’m usually busy with the Traiteur brunch, I managed to check out the farmers' market in Souk Al Bahar before it closed for summer.

Knives

Most of my cooking equipment is from Zwilling JA Henckels on the Boulevard Malesherbes in Paris. But most of my knives are from Japan. The brand is Global [supplied by Yoshikin in Japan] and I have them tailor-made with my own design. They are extremely light, solid and very long lasting.

Zwilling JA Henckels, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4340725. www.zwilling.com Yoshikin, Japan. www.yoshikin.co.jp

Eating out

The Terrace. Not because I work at Park Hyatt Dubai, but because I have a love of seafood. The Terrace is one of the best places in Dubai for a fresh seafood platter.

The Terrace, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira Dubai. Tel: (04) 3172222. www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

Takeaway

I sometimes like to get a home delivery of freshly made maki and sushi from a really small Japanese restaurant here in Dubai called Agemono.

Agemono, International City, Dubai. Tel: (050) 8876784

Cookbooks

I read anything on the shelves that catches my eye. I prefer the books of Michelin star chefs, though, because they take food to the next level – it becomes art. My favourite cookbook is by Alain Ducasse, Grand Livre de Cuisine.

Available from Amazon.com

SWAMP JUICE A wonderfully creative one-man, lo-fi shadow puppet show. And it's free.

Jul 23 to 31, Theatre Space, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4361020

BASTILLE DAY WEEKEND Celebrate (and eat) your way through all the good things that France has given the world.

Jul 13 to 16, Sofitel Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4484870. www.sofitel.com

GIRL ABOUT TOWN Dubai 92’s Geordie Bird gives us the heads up from the UAE bar scene THIS MONTH: REPUBLIQUE What does it look like?

This glitzy club is compact and spread over two floors, but manages to fit in the biggest disco ball I’ve ever seen in Dubai. It also has two projectors, which occasionally come to life. While I was there Axl Rose showed up on screen.

Who goes there?

A pretty trendy 20 to 30 something crowd. Put it this way, I didn't bump into anyone I might see at Rock Bottoms.

Drink recommendations?

There are loads of shots to choose from to keep the party going.

When should you go?

Thursdays and Fridays are the obvious nights with 90s tunes on the DJ's set list, but I heard a whisper that the club is planning something a bit different once a month. Watch this space.

Dress code?

You wanna look cool but not ‘dressed up’ in this club. Jeans and heels for the ladies.

How’s the service?

There’s an army of staff behind the bar, so you won’t be left waiting.

What’s the taxi situation?

It’s attached to The Dubai Mall so there are taxis everywhere.

GB VERDICT: Republique plays the best music from the 1990’s. I didn't hear a bad tune all night.

Add to that it’s in Downtown so I can stroll home – it’s like they practically built the place just for me. I don't have a bad word to say about it.

Republique, The Address Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai. Tel: (050) 4880876

Find us at www.facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 9

SALAAM

SUPERSONIC FLIGHT Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s SonicStar – a US$18 million (Dhs66 million) airplane set to cut the journey time from Dubai to New York to just two hours and 20 minutes. Supersonic jet makers, Hyper Mach, announced plans to build the ten to 20-seater aircraft, which will be able to cruise at 4,287kmph at an altitude of 60,000ft, at the recent Paris Air Show. Hyper Mach claims that the SonicStar jet will fly at twice the speed of the now defunct Concorde – but, sadly, you will have to wait until 2021 to hop on board.

* There won't be a quiz.

We made that up.

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“The next stop is Etisalat” – don’t recognise that station? Well, you will soon, as the RTA has (at long last) announced the opening of the Green Metro line. Study the map. Learn the stations. There will be a quiz later*.

EMIRATES TOWERS FINANCIAL CENTRE

TR

Jul 25, The One, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, 9am to 3pm. Tel: (04) 3456687

Green light

AL

OK, so we’re not fans of needles, but there is no cause worthier than giving blood – it truly is a selfless act that can lead to saving someone's life.

This month, there will be a mobile blood donation clinic set up in Dubai outside The One on Beach Road, where you can pop along and give blood.

Donated blood is used to help cancer patients, people with pregnancy complications, sick children and burn victims – to name just a few.

However, for obvious health reasons not anyone can donate their blood. To ensure that you are eligible to donate, call the number below prior to your visit, answer a few simple questions and book a time to go.

The whole process won't take longer than 15 minutes.

The staff there are nice and friendly, and we promise it won’t hurt, you big softy. Your blood could make a real difference.

AL

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IN THE NEWS

DUBAI MALL/BURJ KHALIFA

A whole new world

The first commercial development in The World is set to open later this year – not the actual world, mind (that happened centuries ago), but that famous group of islands off the Dubai coast. Let’s have a nosey at the stats

70

The percentage of the 300 man-made islands that have been bought

Dhs40,000 DUBAI INTERNET CITY The projected annual membership fee to join the beach club

BUSINESS BAY

NOOR ISLAMIC BANK

Dhs60m The amount spent on buying and developing the beach club FIRST GULF BANK

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

1

BURJ AL ARAB

Based on Lebanon Island, The World Island Beach Club be the first commercial AL will BARSHA property to open

AL SUFOOH

80ft

NAKHEEL

The size of the yachts thatMARINA the pontoon can DUBAI accommodate

10 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

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BE PART OF A COLOURFUL JOURNEY IN DUBAI. More than one million expected visitors 32 global cuisines to be featured Attractions for every age group Five days of shopping, dining and entertainment Unique adventure sports for thefirst time in the UAE

31 Aug - 4 Sept* 2011 Meydan, Dubai

Guinness World Record Attempt at Venue

The largest photographic collage of human faces on a mosaic surface

*Tentative dates

Follow us on:

Presenting Shoppiesta – an annual exhibition that’s a unique celebration.

The Dubai event calendar is all set to get even more exciting! Shoppiesta, the five-day lifestyle extravaganza, is coming soon to enthral everyone with great bargains, adventure sports, exclusive concerts and lots more.

facebook.com/ShoppiestaUAE

twitter.com/shoppiesta

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For exhibitor and sponsorship enquiries, contact Rizza Tan: +971 4 3588 911 or rizza@shoppiesta.com Official logistics partner:

Win with What’s On

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WIN! A TRIP FOR TWO TO TANZANIA, INCLUDING FLIGHTS

What’s On has teamed up with Serena Hotels & Resorts, Africa and Asia’s leading hotel group, to offer one lucky reader and a friend a three-night package in one of Tanzania’s most luxurious safari destinations, including return flights to Dar-Es-Salam on Kenya Airways.

If you’ve always dreamed of losing yourself in a world of untamed beauty, complete with luxurious accommodation, high-adventure game drives and boating safaris, then your wishes could come true.

The winners will enjoy three nights in one of Tanzania’s most soughtafter safari destinations: the luxury Mivumo River Lodge, a lavish retreat standing high on the banks of the shimmering Rufiji River with views down to the plunging torrents of Stiegler's Gorge. The Mivumo River Lodge offers 12 river-facing rooms, each of which is housed in a timbered chalet with private viewing deck, sun loungers, plunge pool and a rain shower. The prize also includes full board, with meals in the dining room which overlooks the riverbanks where hippos, crocodiles and elephants congregate.

The resort is close to the spectacular Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; home to one third of Tanzania’s wildlife, it has the largest concentrations of elephants in the world. This is the dream destination for nature lovers, with tours in the custom built open sided safari vehicles and a boat cruise on the Rufiji River on offer.

For your chance to win this amazing trip, simply answer this question...

Which of the following animals is not in the ‘big five’? a) Elephant b) Rhino c) Camel

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 13

n i e d Ma i a b u D We unearth and celebrate the best UAE-born stores, restaurants and cultural gems in Dubai How many times have you heard somebody complain about the lack of original shops, restaurants or cultural institutions in Dubai?

We hear this familiar refrain on an almost weekly basis, “I hate malls, I ate in that restaurant when I was in London, and there’s just no culture here in the UAE – not like Europe.” Our answer? What balderdash. OK, so Dubai is not Paris or London, but those ancient capitals have a good few centuries on the young emirate we are proud to call home.

And on the following pages you will see that there is an abundance of distinctive stores created and run by entrepreneurs living right

here in the UAE, retailing unique products that you would never be able to find in a mall or, indeed, anywhere else in the world.

The independent restaurant scene in Dubai, meanwhile, is flourishing with local restaurateurs offering just about every cuisine you could wish for. And from the Al Quoz gallery quarter, which grows seemingly by the day, to the numerous cultural organisations popping up around town Dubai is certainly, indubitably, not lacking culture. Made In Dubai is a tag to be proud of, something to celebrate. And that is exactly what we have done here…

If you have, are starting or are planning on launching a shop, restaurant or cultural enterprise in Dubai, we would really like to hear about it.

E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 15

MADE IN DUBAI

Independent shops In a land of malls, it takes a brave soul to set up shop on their own. Luckily for us, an army of such retailers has taken to the Dubai streets to offer us vintage clothing, rare vinyl, second-hand books and more. Here’s our pick of the best independent shops in the city

Bambah

This vintage boutique is a treasure box of fashion from the 1930s to the 1980s, sourced from all over the world by 25-yearold owner Maha Abdul Rasheed. You’ll find pieces from the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin and Nina Ricci, with vintage suits, LBDs and accessories on racks and in old-fashioned suitcases just waiting to be incorporated into your wardrobe.

142 Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (050) 6741754. www.bambah.com

Reem’s Closet

A haven for cash-strapped label lovers, Reem’s Closet is tucked away in the somewhat un-glam Mazaya Centre. But don’t be put off, Reem Mohammed and her team has one of the best collections of ‘pre-owned’ (that’s second-hand to the rest of us) designer goods from Chanel, Dior, Thierry Mugler and more, all of which have been checked for authenticity.

Mazaya Centre, Dubai, 10am to 9.45pm.

Tel: (04) 3439553

Kitsch

A pioneer in Dubai’s cupcake world, Kitsch is the home-grown brainchild of Dalia Dogmoch and Racil Chalhoub, who have added inches to our waistline since launching two years ago. And it was worth every kilo.

Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to midnight.

Tel: (04) 3956963. www.kitschconcept.com

Zoo

The sibling store to Bambah, Zoo is all modern spaces and quirky gifts. There’s also designer clothing, homewares and the kind of knick-knacks that add a little bit of cool to your life. In short, it’s the kind of shop you go into for a present and spend twice as much on yourself.

142 Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3495585. www.zoofashions.com 16 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

O De Rose

Fused together by three creative cousins from different backgrounds with a shared passion for fashion, interiors and art, O de Rose is a stunning boutique set in a converted villa. The garden is strewn with fairy lights and cushions, the products are enchantingly embellished and there’s always a warm welcome (sometimes you’ll get a cup of tea, too). Great for injecting some offbeat charm into your home.

Al Wasl Rd, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 7pm. Tel: (04) 3487990. www.o-derose.com

House Of Prose

A store run by book lovers, for book lovers, this wordy wonderland has a wide selection of second-hand English-language tomes, and you can even return your purchase and receive half your money back. A fantastic shop with a winning attitude.

Jumeirah Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9am to 8pm, Fri 5.30pm to 8pm.

Tel: (04) 3449021

Sugar Daddy’s

As the bakers at Sugar Daddy’s say “stressed is desserts spelled backwards” – we couldn’t have said it better. Innovative flavours, loads of outlets and enough sugar to send us into a well-earned diabetic coma.

Various branches including Village Mall, Beach Road, Dubai, Saturday to Thursday 9am to 10pm, Friday 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3448204. www.sugardaddysbakery.com

Deans Fujiya Supermarket

With freezers full of seaweed and shelves heaving with steamers, Deans is favourite with Dubai chefs.

The tiny Japanese supermarket sells imported ingredients, utensils and dishes, so whether you’re an aspiring sushi master or just want some unusual side plates, it’s well worth seeking out.

Near Lamcy Plaza, Oud Metha, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 8.30pm, Fri 5pm to 8.30pm.

Tel: (04) 3370503

S*uce

S*uce

A leading light on the local fashion scene, S*uce is a contemporary boutique with a mixture of brands such as Karta, Isabella Cappeto, Alldressedup and collections including McQ

by Alexander McQueen, See by Chloé and Anglomania by Vivienne Westwood. There’s also gorgeous jewellery, cute gift ideas and very bling gold shopping bags.

The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3447270. www.shopatsauce.com

Mr Ben’s

A walk-in fancy dress box, Mr Ben’s is packed with wigs, accessories and outfits to transform you from ordinary to Barney the Dinosaur, a beefeater, 1970s disco queen and pretty much anything the Rugby Sevens or a costume party could demand. Rental also available.

Mr Ben, Al Ghazal Mall, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3463422. www.mrbendubai.com

“Mr. Ben’s was the first official costumes sales and rentals business here in the UAE. We wanted to not just be the first, but also remain the best in the market at what we do.”

Jayne Eastland – Managing Director, Mr Ben’s

MADE IN DUBAI “There is an amazing entrepreneurial spirit and energy in Dubai. There always has been.”

Zayan Ghandour – Creative Director, Head Buyer and co-founder, S*uce

Bookworld Whistle & Flute

Fabindia

With handcrafted products and fabrics from all over India, this store isn’t cheap, but you’ll leave with authentic clothing, linens and accessories. There’s even organic food and products for your bathroom shelf.

Al Mankool Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri 4pm to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 3989633 www.fabindia.com

Ohm Records

Hailed by many vinyl fans as local heroes, the gang at OHM promotes and distributes hard to find music from non-commercial genres like trip hop, acid jazz and jazz. Nice guys, too.

Al Kifaf Building, Trade Center Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 2pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3973728. www.ohmrecords.com

My Vintage Parlour

Fashion fanatic Judith Hanley has a thirst for vintage so set up My Vintage Parlour, a space where her sartorial sisters can book appointments to view the collection and find that perfect prom dress. Pieces from the 1900s through to the 1970s have been expertly curated

by Judith and she’s on hand to advise on fitting, alterations and accessorising.

Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai. Tel: (050) 5504249. www.myvintageparlour.com

Piled high with second-hand books and magazines, Book World is a hideaway for Dubai’s literati. With everything from vintage Viz annuals to nearly new best-sellers, the prices are cheap, the choice is vast and if your own home is too full, you can borrow a book instead of buying it.

Plant Street, Satwa, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9.30am to 9.30 pm and Fri 4.30pm to 9.30pm.

Tel: (04) 3491914

Whistle & Flute

It is hard to find a good tailor in Dubai, and Whistle & Flute is no different, tucked away in an alley near the Iranian hospital. Trust us, with expert staff, quality fabrics and speedy turnaround times you won’t begrudge them a little mystery.

Plant Street, Satwa, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 3429229

Disco 2000

Need highbrow culture at rock bottom prices?

Get yourself to Disco 2000 where you’ll find CDs and DVDs for under Dhs50, with some even costing as little as Dhs10.

Spinneys, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9.30am to 10pm, Fri 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3940139

Bumble Box

Already a What’s On favourite, Bumble Box is a home delivery service offering fresh organic fruit and vegetables at affordable prices.

Boxes cost Dhs80 and Dhs130 depending on the size, with the larger packages holding enough for a family of four (depending on appetites).

There’s also a market twice a week, Tuesday A regular on best-dressed lists, Ayesha Depala and Saturday, at the Dubai Garden Centre in Al studied at Central St Martin’s in London Quoz starting at 9.30am, where you can meet before setting up her own label and boutique. the team and buy from other local suppliers.

Ayesha’s designs are modern, feminine and www.bumble-box.com undeniably influenced by her Indian heritage, with rich beading and glamorous colours. The “We offer items with store boasts all her creations, plus accessories stories and soul, not just to turn heads.

The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, a price tag.”

Sat to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri 4pm to 10pm. Tel: Mimi Shakhashir – (04) 3445378. www.ayeshadepala.com Managing Partner, O de Rose

Ayesha Depala Boutique

Five more local favourites Absolute Adventure

Adventurer, guide and Dubai resident, Paul Oliver organises expeditions all around the globe, but his company is based in the UAE and he’s the go-to guy for local adventures here and in Oman.

Absolute Adventure, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3459900. www.adventure.ae

Desert Gardener

Dan, the Desert Gardner, runs the ever-expanding Dubai Garden Centre, now home to a couple of our featured local businesses, Bumble Box Market and an House Of Prose bookshop outlet, as well as other local gems like the RAW Coffee Company.

Dubai Garden Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3400006

Dubizzle

You all know about Dubizzle, so we won’t bang on about it, but the online classifieds market with its tagline “buy, sell, find anything” is one of the city’s most successful home-grown sites. www.dubizzle.com

Duplays

Anyone who plays sport in the UAE will already be eternally grateful to this online sports and social club, which enables anyone to join a team or establish their own to play in one of the various leagues on the site. One of the most original and useful businesses in town. www.duplays.com

Okku

We’ve been regular patrons of the stylish Japanese restaurant since the day it opened, and we’re not the only ones. In fact, Okku has been so successful that its creators are planning to open in London soon. Dubai goes global.

Okku, The Monarch Dubai, One Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 5018777. www.okkudubai.com

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 17

MADE IN DUBAI

Eating out

Coming soon: Keep an eye out for organic restaurant Burger 360, scheduled to open September/October 2011

Aprons & Hammers

A&H, billing itself as “the first crab shack in Dubai”, has been causing a big stir around town. Owner and chef, Lawrence Fleet, is omnipresent, chatting with diners, boasting about the quality of the local seafood and cooking up the various buckets and platters on the menu. We recommend the steamed crab with chili and garlic dipping sauce and the mussels in saffron cream.

Aprons & Hammers, The Dhow, Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4547097

Kcal

Not merely made in Dubai, but a truly original concept as Kcal, set up by passionate fitness fan Andreas Borgmann and his business partner, serves “healthy fast food” with all the dishes coming in at less than 300 calories. The Kcal beef burger is surprisingly good, and Kcal delivers.

Kcal, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4473844. www.kcalhealthyfastfood.com

Piccolo Mondo Bay Dubai

For a long time, Piccolo Mondo was a solo café hidden away in International City, an Aladdin’s cave filled to bursting with artefacts and bric-a-brac picked up by owner Zaki Al Obaidi on his travels. The Dubai Marina outlet launched it into the mainstream, but PMD still retains its distinctive junk shop aesthetic and its delightfully muddled multicuisine menu.

Piccolo Mondo Bay Dubai, Dubai Marina, Marina Tower, Basement Level, Water Front, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4475449. www.piccolomondobaydubai.com

“All small businesses are going to have lows – it is your passion that fuels you to get through them.”

Mohamed Parham Al Awadhi – Co-founder, Wild Peeta

18 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Aprons & Hammers

Wild Peeta

Set up by the Al Awadhi brothers, co-founder Mohamed Parham Al Awadhi describes his fusion shawarma restaurants as what every country should have, but Dubai desperately needs – locally-derived, creative food ideas. “Dubai is dependent on importing everything,” he insists. “We need to be able to create.” Right on the money.

Wild Peeta, various locations, Dubai. Tel: 8009453. www.wildpeeta.com

Zaroob

Set up by local restaurateur Nasser Zuhour, also responsible for Dubai’s Mezze House, Zaroob is a fine example of the kind of trendy, local restaurants popping up around the city. The design is offbeat, urban chic with Arabic influences, while the restaurant boasts two floors with an open kitchen producing nourishing Levantine cuisine.

Jumeirah Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3276060. www.zaroob.net

BoHouse

With its distinctive, colourful and arty décor, its outdoor terrace facing the sea and its no nonsense grub, BoHouse has become a popular hang out for JBR and Marina residents in Dubai.

The food and the laid-back style of the place are perfectly in sync with the city. And, as if that weren’t enough, the café has just launched a book club.

BoHouse Cafe, The Walk, JBR, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4298655. E-mail: bookclub@bohousecafe.com

More Café

If you have been in Dubai for more than a week, it’s likely you have discovered More Café. We’re not telling you it’s there, we’re reminding you that it’s Dubai born and bred. Having received the What’s On Award for Favourite Café/ Independent in 2009, managing partner Wouter Lap told us, “I wanted to create a place where you could go and be in total comfort.” He’s done just that.

More Café, various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2830224. www.morecafe.biz

Lime Tree Café

The original Lime Tree Café in Beach Road has become a Dubai institution, and one of the hardest places to secure a table at breakfast time in the city. With a fourth café recently opened in Media City, Lime Tree Café is a genuine Dubai success story.

Lime Tree Café, various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3498498. www.thelimetreecafe.com

Local House Coffee Shop & Restaurant

It might be located in Al Baskakiya, prime tourist territory, but Local House is the real Dubai deal. Set up by Khalid Sultan Moosa Al Halyan, it specialises in traditional Emirati food and music. It would be grossly negligent not to sample the famous camel burger.

Local House Coffee Shop & Restaurant, Al Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3540705. www.localhousedubai.com

MADE IN DUBAI

Culture

Art Galleries Traffic

The spacious multipurpose set-up is ideal for showcasing local artists.

Traffic has two galleries, a residency artist studio and PRINT – an art store.

Traffic, Umm Suqeim Road, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3470209. www.viatraffic.org

Backstage Theatre Group

This non-profit amateur theatre group started two years ago with just ten people. Since then, its numbers have swelled to 400 strong – putting on as many as ten productions last year alone.

Playing throughout Dubai, it encourages people to join its ranks and aims to raise the profile of performing arts in the UAE. Tel: (050) 4524793

Dubomedy

Dubbed the ‘Future Of UAE Comedy’ by this very magazine, Dubomedy was set up in 2008 by comedic royalty Ali Al Sayed and Mina Liccione and is the region’s first and only comedy and urban arts school. With over 30 years of performance experience, Ali and Mina’s goal is to educate and create a local comedy community. So far, so good. www.dubomedy.com

Dubai Confidential Film Club

Recently we’ve been singing the praises of the DCFC. Only set up this year, the monthly events screen classic art house films to small groups of passionate film buffs. This month’s showing will see Vertigo following the success Casablanca and Breakfast At Tiffany’s.

Tel: (055) 5537686

The Fridge

A music agency, a performance space, a gallery and make-shift concert area – The Fridge is many things, and is totally unique. Set up

by Shelley Frost in 2007, its aim has always been to promote, manage and facilitate the collaboration of locally-based music talent.

The Fridge, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3477793. www.thefridgedubai.com

Mindloop Studios

You can’t have an indie scene without a studio to record angst-filled songs. Cue Mindloop.

With three studios, a throng of local session musicians, this wire-strewed recording studio adds much-needed creative grit to Dubai.

Mindloop Studios, Dubai Media City, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3914111 www.mindloopstudios.com

The Jam Jar

The Fridge

Capital D

Is it a gallery or a photography studio? We’re not quite sure – but either way we love it. Set up by the husband and wife team of Ayaad and Meredith Taylor Damouni, it hosts exhibitions and a professional photography service – all the right components to foster a photography community in Dubai.

Capital D Studios, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3415339 www.capitaldstudio.com

Tashkeel

Now this is more like it. A plush open space set up for artists and designers to help generate creativity. Members are allowed the use of the studios, which include a photography studio and darkroom, 3D studios, and textile printing and jewellery studios. There is an excellent reference library, too. Freelancers rejoice!

Tashkeel, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3363313 www.tashkeel.org

Dolphin Creative

Experimental events company Dolphin Creative specialises in open space theatre, festivals and public events that highlight the arts and entertainment, including its show Swamp Juice (Jul 23 to 31). “We feel this region has a real ‘can do’ attitude, and we want to be part of it,” Stuart Every, Dolphin’s Managing Director, told us.

Dolphin Creative, Dubai. www.dolphincreative.ae

“We felt our experience and drive could do well, and we were prepared to give up the security of steady pay cheques to go for it.”

Set up in 2005, thejamjar strives to support the development of Dubai’s art scene through art programmes, educational initiatives, and community projects.

The Jam Jar, Al Quoz 3, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3417303. www.thejamjardubai.com

Third Line

Another gallery set in the maze of Al Quoz, the Third Line specialises in showcasing contemporary Middle Eastern art.

The Third Line, Al Quoz 3 Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3411367. www.thethirdline.com

XVA

Heralded not only in the UAE but also throughout the MENA region, the plush XVA gallery has established itself as one of the big names in Middle Eastern art.

XVA Gallery, DIFC Gate Village, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3585117. www.xvagallery.com

Showcase Gallery

One of the most established galleries in Dubai, Showcase caters to both art and antiques collectors.

Showcase Gallery, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3488797. www.showcaseuae.com

4 Walls

Not just a gallery, 4 Walls puts on painting and sculpting workshops, as well as regular art classes for children.

4 Walls Art Gallery, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3388892. www.4walls-dubai.com

Stuart Every – Managing Director, Dolphin Creative JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 19

Your summer Need to fill those long humid weekends and boring evenings?

We’ve found the best activities in Dubai to keep you and the family busy

The foodie

The sports

Visit an organic market

Learn capoeira

Enjoy a culinary weekend

Go climbing and be frozen – at the mall

We’ve said it before and we’re saying it again, the local, organic produce at the weekly Bumble Box Market is a must for any serious foodie with scruples.

Bumble Box Market, Dubai Garden Centre, Dubai, Sat 9.30am to 1pm. Tel: (04) 34000006. www.bumble-box.com

Get to grips with the non-contact Brazilian sport, where two players exchange movements. Great for coordination, flexibility and strength.

Contender Gym, Al Quoz, Dubai, Sun, Tues and Thurs 8pm to 10pm, Dhs700 per month. Tel: (050) 1034672. www.capoeiradubai.com

Planning on enjoying the superb cooking at Verre? Enjoy it properly with a three-course dinner at Ramsay’s Dubai bastion, a stay at the Hilton and breakfast at Glasshouse, also run by Verre’s Scott Price.

The Gordon Ramsay Culinary Experience, Hilton Dubai Creek, Deira, Dubai, Dhs1,295 per couple.

Tel: (04) 2271111

Adventure HQ is an enormous new store packed with the latest outdoor equipment – and a climbing wall, cable climb and ice chamber where you can try out winter gear.

It’s officially the coolest place in Dubai.

Adventure HQ, Times Square, Al Quoz, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. www.adventurehq.ae

Master the art of French cooking

Try cheerleading aerobics

Pom-poms at the ready, the latest exercise craze to sweep Dubai is Cheerobics, which combines cheerleading techniques and aerobics to burn up to 700 calories per hour.

Extra points for pep and team spirit.

Core Direction, DAMAC Waves Tower, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Dhs350 per month for unlimited classes. Tel: (055) 6930668. www.coredirection. com

Enjoy a lesson with our favourite French chef, Traiteur’s Franck Detrait, followed by lunch or dinner.

Traiteur, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, from Dhs350 per person. Tel: (04) 6021804

Sample cheese and wine Two nights to please both oenophiles and turophiles

Cycle, run or blade at the Autodrome

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Plantation Lounge More than 30 cheeses with wine pairings and a jazz band.

Plantation Lounge, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach, The Walk, JBR, Weds 7pm to 10pm, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 4484873 Lobby Lounge The Qamardeen Hotels Cheese and Wine Unwind nights provide exactly what the name suggests.

Lobby Lounge, Qamardeen Hotel, Emaar Boulevard, Old Town, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, Wed to Fri 6pm to 9pm, Dhs109.

Tel: (04) 4285888

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20 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Blend your own tea

Visit manager Alexandra Kalinina and her team at the new Tea For You café and create your own blend of tea.

Tea For You, TECOM, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4572575. www.tea4you.ae

Forget the motors, every Wednesday night runners, rollerbladers and cyclists take over the track at the Autodrome with Cycle Safe Dubai. It’s free, but you’ll have to bring your own mode of transport.

Dubai Autodrome, Motor City, Dubai, 6pm to 9pm, free. Tel: (04) 3678700

sorted fan

Culture vulture

Watch the Copa America

Join a Scrabble club

If you’re more of an armchair or barstool kinda sports fan, then you’ll already know that the cream of South America’s international football stars go head to head in the Copa America during July in Argentina.

You won’t have to shell out on the next flight to Buenos Aires or worry about time differences because The Underground is screening matches and is open from noon to 2.30am.

The Underground, Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3995000

Meet like-minded word nerds for monthly meet-ups, regular tournaments and online tip swapping.

To contact the group, search for ‘UAE Scrabble’ on www. facebook.com

Swap your books

Refresh your bookshelves and save some cash with the book swaps offered at KAS Cafe in JLT. Drop in any time with a tired tome or that novel you just never got around to and pick up a new read from the shelf. Our kind of recycling.

KAS Café, Lake Terrace, JLT, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4471703

Join the library

In the days of Kindles and iPads it’s easy to forget the simple joys of borrowing a book. Run entirely by volunteers (and they’re always looking for more) The Old Library in Mall Of The Emirates has 19,000 titles, second-hand books for sale and hosts reading sessions.

Membership is Dhs200 for adults and Dhs50 for children.

The Old Library, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, Sat 10am to 6pm, Sun to Thurs noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3414777. www.theoldlibrary.ae

Draw at the mall

Hone your people watching and sketching skills with Saturday afternoon drawing sessions with Raja’a Khalid. You’ll meet at one of Dubai’s malls to observe shoppers, architecture, window displays, perspective and more. Minimum of four people needed per class and prices depend on group size. Bring your own A4 notebook, black ink pens and pencils.

Tel: (050) 5595617

Show off your knowledge

Summer is prime pub quiz season, with many brainaics holing up in bars to pit their wits for prizes. Here’s our top three: 1. Fibber Magees (Tue), Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3322400 2. The Sports Lounge (Mon), Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3627900 3. Arabian Ranches Golf Club (Tue), Emirates Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3663000 JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 21

YOUR SUMMER SORTED

Family

Luxury lovers

Birthday baking

Rolling in style

Free summer camp

Smokin’ success

If your little darling celebrates their birthday this summer, Sugar Daddy’s cupcake and cookie decorating classes could provide the ideal birthday bash. Let them make a mess on somebody else’s property for a change, eh?

Sugar Daddy’s, Park Island, Dubai Marina, Dubai, from Dhs150. Tel: (04) 3448204 Lamcy Plaza and Fun City have teamed up for Dubai Summer Surprises to create a children’s summer camp offering entertainment ranging from cooking to yoga. There will also be activities available in the evenings.

Lamcy Plaza, Oud Metha, Dubai, 11am to 2pm, and 5pm to 7pm, free. Tel: (04) 3352700

An evening at the zoo

Summer nights are the ideal time to take that trip to the zoo (it’s educational, after all), especially as Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort has a buy one get one free deal on tickets until July 31.

Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 10pm, Dhs15, children Dhs5.

Tel: (03) 7041543. www.awpr.ae

Get some rhythm

Dubai Drums is holding day camps for children aged four to 12 throughout July with hand drumming, singing, drama, story telling and puppet shows. You can even join your progeny between 12.30pm and 1pm for no extra charge. Bonus.

Dubai Drums, Al Noor Centre, Barsha, Dubai, Jul to 28 9am to 1pm, Dhs750 per week. Tel: (056) 7442129

Tread the boards

Do you have a budding thespian on your hands? Kids Theatre Works is holding drama camps for children aged seven to 14 led by British performers Hayley Doyle, Anna Stranack and Dean Elliot.

Jul 3 to Jul 7 and Jul 10 to Jul 14, Kids Theatre Works, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, 9am to 3pm, Dhs750 per week. Tel: (04) 3414777 22 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Ditch your tired old banger for a few days and rent a car with some serious comfort. Hertz is offering a top-of-the-range Lexus IS300s from Dhs428 per day, including insurance. Roadtrippin’ in style.

Hertz Middle East, From Dhs438. Tel: (800) 43789. www.hertz.ae Nothing says ‘you’ve made it’ like sitting in utter comfort, puffing on the finest cigar with a choice beverage in hand.

If you’re celebrating this summer, here are our top three cigar bars: The Cigar Bar tDaily from 7pm to 2am, The Fairmont, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3118316. www.fairmont.com/dubai C Club Thurs to Sat from 6pm to 2am, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, The Palm Jumeriah, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4530444. www.jumeirah.com Diademas Daily From 6pm to 2am, The Monarch Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 5018888. www.themonarchdubai. com

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Shop ‘til they drop

If you’re too busy to spend all day shopping around, then let Bloomingdale’s personal shopper service help you out. Tell them what you’re after and they will sort you out. The service is free, the rest is up to you.

At Your Service, Bloomingdale’s, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3505333. www. bloomingdales.com

Feast on meat

Celebrate the beginning of the weekend by over indulging in endless cuts of top-quality meats and seafood while serenaded by a live jazz band. Thursday nights at Ember really is one for people who know their meat.

Ember, The Address Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai.

Thurs 6.30pm to 11.30pm, Dhs180 to Dhs245 including a selection of house beverages.

Tel: (04) 4388999

Become a photographer

Splashed out on a fancy camera but still taking bad shots? Throughout July and August pro portrait snappers Pink Pepper are offering five-day courses for beginners and intermediates at their studio. Forget a stuffy classroom – these sessions are all about fun, experimentation, snap happy times for all ages.

Pink Pepper, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs800.

Tel: (04) 4340437. www.pinkpepperuae.com

Up to 35% off at Dubai’s most celebrated restaurants!

Enjoy up to 35% off this summer when you put your Visa card on a diet with our 8 step plan. The more you dine, the more you lose… off your bill!

Pay with your Visa card when dining at selected restaurants in The Address Hotels + Resorts, The Palace – The Old Town, Armani Hotel Dubai, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches Golf Club Dubai and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and see the difference a few months can make.

Visit 1 - 3: 25% Visit 4 - 7: 30% Visit 8 and onwards: 35% In addition, receive a 25% discount at any spa at The Address Hotels + Resorts and Armani/SPA. For golf enthusiasts, receive a 35% discount on weekday green fees at The Address Montgomerie Dubai.

Pick up your membership card today at any participating restaurants.

For more information, please visit www.theaddress.com/Visa or call +971 4 8883444 Terms & Conditions apply.

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Hopping mad Three days long. Two weeks and 40 people to build the tent. 30 doormen. 50 bar staff. Over 100 varieties of beer. A pint pulled every 20 seconds. That’s right, Hopfest is back. The fun-filled three-day fest kicks off at noon and finishes at 2am, with music by The Maplejacks, Adam Shero, The Vision and DJ Mark. Up for the hat-trick? On the Saturday take your wristband from Thursday and Friday and the first 200 punters will get a free brunch and a ‘I Survived Hopfest 2011’ T-shirt. Wear yours with pride, you crazy kid.

Jul 21 to Jul 24, Irish Village, Garhoud, Dubai, noon to 2am, drinks from Dhs35.

Tel: (04) 2824122. www.irishvillage.ae

WIN!

DRINKS AT HOPFEST What’s even better than a festival of fun? When it’s free, of course. We have drinks and food vouchers worth Dhs350 to give to four thirsty readers. For your chance to win, e-mail editor-wo@motivate.ae with ‘Hopfest’ in the subject line and the answer to this question…

At which Dubai institution is Hopfest held? a) Scottish Village b) Irish Village c) Finnish Village

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 25

Dubai online Chances are, like us, you’re permanently parked at your PC or glued to your smartphone.There’s no denying it, the UAE population is spending more time online. We’ve rounded up the best blogs, top twitterers, amazing apps, online shops and stats. So whether you’re an internet lurker, aspiring entrepreneur or Facebook friend, read on to find out what’s happening on our world wide web

Get appy From galleries and games to bill paying, here’s our pick of UAE apps to download today DUBAI METRO2 Metro stations, times, rules, fines and prices.

DEWA Bill queries, office locations and complaint logging.

KALIMAT An utterly addictive word game in both English and Arabic.

7DAYS The latest news in either iPhone or BlackBerry format.

DUBAI 92 Listen to Dubai 92 on the go.

GRAND CINEMAS What’s showing and when, screening times, e-tickets and cinema locations.

Percentage of the UAE population using internet

25%

not on the internet

75%

on the internet

Style blog!

Picking out your new wardrobe needn’t be a solitary task. Dubai fashionista and blogger Bebhinn Kelly’s www.hellwafashion.com helps you trawl through latest trends, from designers to high street and everything in between.

26 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

DUBAI MAP & WALKING TOURS One for visitors – download and send them on their way. Maps, routes, landmarks and information.

THE THIRD LINE The Al Quoz gallery’s app features artists’ work and profiles, exhibitions, events social feeds and a book store.

DUBAI FLIGHT TRACKER Gives you up-to-date arrival and departure info from Dubai airport. Excellent for those who travel a lot, or for picking up friends and family MPARK DUBAI Enter your vehicle details, parking zone and required duration to pay for parking through your iPhone. Snazzy.

Percentage of the UAE population on Facebook FACT: The UAE is number nine in the worldʼs top ten countries 54% on facebook

by Facebook penetration. Iceland is number one worldwide – 66.5% of its population have a facebook account

46%

not on facebook

The most popular YouTube video from Dubai is of Shakira bellydancing at her 2007 concert, with 9,644,942 views

Top tweeters Our pick of the UAE’s 140-character chatterers @TheLemonadeBoy Followers: 113,390 Who is he? Com Mirza is an entrepreneur and all around ‘creative madman’.

Tweets about: Famous inspirational quotes Likelihood he’ll tweet you back: Pretty high – Com is a daily tweeter @ lollipop26 Followers: 32,423 Who is she? Laura is a beauty blogger who flits between Dubai and London Tweets about: Beauty products and tips Likelihood she’ll tweet you back: High – Laura is a self-confessed tweet-aholic @Catboy_Dubai Followers: 11,458 Who is he? Simon Smedley is Catboy from Dubai 92’s breakfast show (and What’s On columnist) Tweets about: Amusing snippets from around Dubai and beyond. He does a good infographic, too Likelihood he’ll tweet you back: Reasonable – it depends if you have anything entertaining to say @AshrafGhori Followers: 25,723 Who is he? Ashraf Ghori is an artist and awardwinning film-maker.

Tweets about: Arts, graphics and news Likelihood he’ll tweet you back: Good – Ashraf tweets… a lot

5.5 MILLION Twitter users in the region 40% of them in the UAE

Food blog!

Unlike actual food, when it comes to food advice, you can never have too much. Check out www.duguzzle.blogspot.com, the sparkling blog from our very own The Critic (p40), James Brennan.

Age of facebook users in the UAE

45% over 30 years old

55% 15 - 30

UAE 66%

34%

Facebook users in the UAE are 66% female and 34% male

56%

44%

Globally, the average is 56% female and 44% male

13% 20%

New blog!

Married (male)

Married (female)

0

Language of UAE Facebook users

Emirates Airline is the social media brand with the most ʻfollowersʼ – the Dubai company has 69,950 followers across Facebook,Twitter and YouTube

88% English 9.3% Arabic 0.8 % French 0

20

40

60

80

How to build your own app

Got a great idea for an app that can change the world, make life easier or just pass the time while you’re on the metro?

Until recently, the only people who could develop (and make cash) from app building were techheads. Now, Apps Arabia, an Abu Dhabi-based investment fund, is inviting UAE residents to pitch their ideas and make their app-based dream a riskfree online reality. So how does it work?

1. Wannabe app entrepreneurs register and submit their idea for investment.

2. Successful applicants are contacted and AppsArabia finds suitable developers.

3. It invests in the development (if you have an idea you don’t pay a dirham), it is created, tested and submitted to the appropriate app store. This takes around three months.

4. Revenue from sales is kept by AppsArabia until the investment is paid off. Profits are then split between the entrepreneur (70 per cent) and AppsArabia (30 per cent).

5. You become the next Mark Zuckerberg. It could happen. www.appsarabia.com

UAE facebook users showing status as ʻmarriedʼ

years old

While most of us moan to our mates about the weird and wonderful people that live in Dubai, a certain annonymous blogger has taken it online.

Check out www.mrsmadisondubai.com for all the stereotypes; the campers, the old-timer, the waxer, the 7Days letter writer – which one are you?

WORLDWIDE

100

86%

of mobile internet users use their devices while watching TV

Where to buy

Forget your Amazons, Net-A-Porters and eBays, the UAE has a raft of home-grown websites packed with products. No conversion rates, shorter delivery times and help at the end of the phone. Welcome to your new lunchtime time-wasters and last-minute saviours FOR HOMES www.wallcravings.com Vinyl waterproof, removable wall stickers, this excellent site is packed with decals to transform your home into an individual space.

Designs range from the graphic to the floral, with Arabic calligraphy, famous quotes and nurseryfriendly illustrations. Prices start from Dhs125.

FOR GADGETS www.aido.com Standing for All I Do Online, Aido offers gadgets, books, games, DVDs, quirky gifts and homewares, plus iPads and accessories. We love the massive Scratch Map poster (Dhs70), which allows you to scratch off countries as you visit them. To win a BlackBerry PlayBook from Aido, turn to page 97.

FOR LIFE www.dubizzle.com Dubizzle has expanded beyond apartment browsing to a site where you can pick up furniture for free, check out social snaps and even find a job. A website that is as essential to living in the region as a bottle of Masafi, pair of sunnies and some Hawaiian Tropic factor 30.

FOR FLOWERS www.upscaleandposh.com Flowers, chocolates, balloons, cookies and more ordered online and delivered to your (or your beloved’s) door. Easy to navigate, arranged by occasion and well-priced.

FOR CHILDREN www.sandypants.com After spotting a gap in the market for longlasting toys, stylish children’s clothes and innovative products, plus party bags and travel items, Dubai mums Donna and Patricia launched Sandy Pants.

Regularly relied upon for presents and party essentials, it has quickly become the go-to website for busy parents thanks to its next day delivery service.

FOR FOOD www.casseroleonline.com Chef-prepared meals delivered to your desk or door. This website allows you to order soups, salads, main meals, drinks and desserts – you just need to heat it up. Particularly recommended are the lasagne and ratatouille, with prices starting from Dhs18 for a caesar salad. And there’s no minimum order.

FOR FASHION www.boutique1.com The Dubai home to Lily Allen’s Lucy In Disguise label, Boutique 1’s online offering looks uncannily similar to Net A Porter, and offers a high standard of sartorial choices. Clothing and accessories from the likes of Issa, Halston Heritage and Erdem are available, plus menswear, stationery, books, gifts and a rather nice discount section.

FOR AUCTIONS www.souq.com If you love the buzz of bidding, check out Souq.

New and used items, motors, tickets, properties and all manner of bric-a-brac is waiting to be bought for a bargain price. Just have a bit of savvy – we found an ‘original Banksy’ which we’d recommend checking out before parting with your dirhams.

FOR DJS www.djcorner.ae Gadgets galore at this online emporium, with DJ gear from headphones to turntables, plus lighting, stands and cables. Ideal for those who don’t want to buy internationally, the company is based in Deira and shipping is free on orders over Dhs1,000 within the UAE.

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 27

DUBAI’S BEST POOL HALLS Our magic eight ball tells us you’re sick of waiting around for your local’s solitary pool table to become free. To make sure you’ll never have to wait again, we’ve scoured the city for the best pool and snooker clubs. We’ll rack ‘em, you break…

DUBAI BILLIARD ACADEMY EMIRATES BILLIARDS CENTRE There is no doubt about it, Emirates Billiards Centre is for the purists; it opens early, closes late, is well priced and is kitted out exclusively for billiards.

Pool tables: 11 Snooker tables: 0 Shiekha Rafiya Building, Al Ittihad Road, Deira, 10am to 2am, Dhs15 before 7pm, Dhs20 after 7pm. Tel: (04) 2624499

Small and peaceful, this place is a rarity; a family-friendly pool hall boasting two juniorsize pool tables. It also does a range of pool courses if your action is a bit rusty – you hustler.

Pool tables: five (including two junior tables) Snooker tables: one Shaiba Towers, Tecom, Dubai, 1pm to 1am, Dhs15.

Tel: (050) 1518532. www.dubaibilliard.com

BILLIARD LEGEND Buried in the bustle of Bur Dubai, this nice little pool hall has seven tables with hour-long bookings making it easy to drop by and pocket a few balls anytime you like.

Pool tables: seven Snooker tables: 0 Al Tayer Building, Al Mina Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 10am to 2am, Dhs20 before 6pm, Dhs25 after 6pm. Tel: (04) 3988911

GOLDEN HALL BILLIARD DUBAI

QBALL A gem in the maze that is International City, Qball offers good rates, both snooker and pool tables and a VIP room.

Pool tables: 13 Snooker tables: two International City, Morocco Cluster, Dubai, 2pm to 2am, pool Dhs10 before 7pm, Dhs15 after 7pm, snooker Dhs20 before 7pm, Dhs30 after 7pm, VIP room Dhs40. Tel: (04) 4308127. www.qballdubai.com

Decked out with pool tables, foosball and gaming consoles, there is plenty happening here to pass the day away.

The coffee shop attached also does shisha and nibbles.

Pool tables: nine Snooker tables: four Net.com Building, near Lamcy Plaza, Karama, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2629290

DUBAI SNOOKER CLUB

Not even the most passionate player can binge for 14 hours, so if you need a respite they also do food and have a range of video games to pass the time.

Pool tables: 18 Snooker tables: 0 Al Meena Residence Building, Mina Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 11.30am to 2am, Dhs25 before 5pm, Dhs35 after 5pm. Tel: (04) 3458899

Twenty-five years ago the Dubai Snooker Club was just six pool tables and a snooker table, now it’s one of the most popular clubs in town, Membership is not compulsory and the snacks are top notch.

Pool tables: 13 Snooker tables: 14 Just off Maktoum Bridge, Karama, 9am to 2am, Dhs25 per hour. Tel: (04) 3375338. www.dubaisnooker.com

7 NIGHTS BILLIARDS

BOWLING CITY Don’t let the name fool you, bowling city has plenty of snooker tables and a nice atmosphere.

Plus you can sneak off there whilst your other half goes shopping.

Pool tables: eight Snooker tables: 0 Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 10am to midnight, Dhs35. Tel: (04) 2328600

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 29

FILM

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 2

Rabbit Hole

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 2

Rabbit Hole

Monte Carlo

WHO?

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman, David Yates (director)

Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart, Dianne Wiest, Tammy Blanchard, Sandra Oh, John Cameron Mitchell (director)

Selena Gomez, Leighton Meester, Katie Cassidy, Andie MacDowell, Tom Bezucha (director), Nicole Kidman (coproducer)

TAGLINE

‘It all ends’

‘The only way out is through’

‘She’s having the time of someone else’s life’

ONCE UPON A TIME...

Harry, Ron and Hermione went back to Hogwarts – despite now being old enough to teach there – to defeat Voldemort by finding, and destroying, his three remaining horcruxes.

Becca (Kidman) and husband Howie (Eckhart) dealt with their son’s death in very different ways, creating marital rifts as they battled to process their grief.

Three young women on a second-rate French holiday found themselves whisked into the lap of luxury when one of them was mistaken for a visiting heiress.

IDEAL IF YOU’RE IN THE MOOD TO...

Finally witness the wrapping up of a franchise that, in the decade since it hit our screens, has become roughly as popular as breathing.

Be kicked repeatedly in the cheeriness glands for pretty much the entire 90-minute run time.

Bathe in the lightweight froth of pure escapism, complete with the inevitable arrival of an apparent Prince Charming…

WATCH THIS IF YOU LIKE...

Any of the previous seven instalments. If you’ve been living down a well and missed them, think Lord Of The Rings meets The Goonies – but, frankly, this is no time to be jumping onboard.

Crushing but oddly redemptive explorations of personal woe – Robert Redford’s 1980 directorial debut, Ordinary People, would be a fairly obvious point of reference.

Mistaken identity, a cinema affliction roughly as widespread as the common cold. Peter Sellers benefitted from it in Being There, but this is closer in tone to The Lizzie McGuire Movie.

TOP TRIVIA

Pyrotechnics used in one scene caused a sizeable blaze on the Hogwarts set, which had to be rebuilt before the film’s climactic battle could be shot.

The screenplay was penned

by David Lindsay-Abaire, an adaptation of his 2005 Broadway play of the same name.

The original novel, Headhunters,

by Jules Bass, involved three middle-aged women. Nicole Kidman was originally slated to be playing a role, but the studio wanted a younger vibe. Shame.

WHAT’S ON TEN WORD OR LESS REVIEW

A grandstand finish as Harry bows out in explosive form.

Kidman and Eckhart make heartbreak a curious pleasure.

So light and fluffy it might just blow away.

RATE OR SLATE?

PREVIEW

★★★★✩

★★✩✩✩

30 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

FILM | NEW RELEASES The Conspirator

Honey 2

Honey 2

5 Days Of August

The Conspirator

Conviction

Katerina Graham, Randy Wayne, Melissa Molinaro, Lonette McKee, Bille Woodruff (director)

Rupert Friend, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Richard Coyle, Andy Garcia, Val Kilmer, Renny Harlin (director, co-producer)

James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Justin Long, Evan Rachel Wood, Tom Wilkinson, Robert Redford (director/co-producer)

Hilary Swank, Sam Rockwell, Minnie Driver, Juliette Lewis, Tony Goldwyn (director, co-producer)

‘Go every step of the way’

‘The first casualty of war is truth’

‘One bullet killed the president.

But not one man’

‘An extraordinary journey of how far we go to fight for our family’

Feisty teen Maria (Graham) used her talent for street dance to follow in the footsteps of her choreographer and idol, Honey, whose mentorship offers a route out of the ‘hood.

It was 2008, and Russo-Georgian war had just erupted over South Ossetia, where two US reporters struggled to tell the human story behind the violence.

Seven men and one woman – guesthouse owner Mary Surratt (Wright) – were arrested and tried as accomplices in the 1865 assassination of US President Abraham Lincoln.

Betty Anne Waters (Swank) was horrified when her brother, Kenneth, was arrested for a murder he hadn’t committed, putting herself through law school to help get him released.

Feel extremely unfit and unattractive, shovelling fistfuls of popcorn into your face while a parade of impossibly lithe youths ricochet around the screen.

See an impressive supporting cast (including Garcia as Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili) relive dark days that still feel harrowingly fresh.

Formulate your own opinion as to whether or not Surratt deserved to become the first woman executed by the US Government.

Be reminded that, sometimes, one individual against the system can make a massive amount of difference. Even if it does take 20 years…

The first Honey movie, which came out in 2003 and starred Jessica Alba. Not that you’d be very likely to admit it. Probably wise; Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo was much better.

Mel Gibson’s 1981 breakthrough, Gallipoli, takes an equally dim view of war’s ultimate purpose, while 2001’s Behind Enemy Lines addresses the 1990s Bosnian conflict to similar effect.

Conspiracy-flecked political drama – particularly Oliver Stone’s controversial 1991 factmangler, JFK, or the more recent Frost/Nixon.

Stories of triumph against the odds with a legal twist. Erin Brockovich might be a decent place to start, with a bit of The Shawshank Redemption for good measure.

At least director Woodruff has form in the musical arena – he directed the video for Toni Braxton’s Unbreak My Heart, amongst others.

Director Renny Harlin’s CV is somewhat chequered, ranging from success with Die Hard 2 to the dismal Cutthroat Island – a flop so catastrophic it made the Guinness Book Of Records.

This is the debut offering from Joe Ricketts’ American Film Company, a new production house dedicated to dramatising true stories.

Unfortunately, the real Kenneth Waters only enjoyed six months of freedom before he died in a freak fall while walking home from a family dinner.

Lord of the dance? Bored is probably more like it.

Absorbing and powerful, but strangely enjoyable.

Redford’s slow-burner demands extreme patience, but rewards it.

Swank and Rockwell are solid, but this never fully ignites.

★★✩✩✩

★★★✩✩

★★★✩✩

★★★✩✩ JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 31

EATING OUT Summer is well and truly upon us, like sticky, microwaved hollandaise over a pert poached egg.

But it’s not all bad news. Fortunately, summer also means it’s ice cream season – if ice cream has a season, that is. We think it does, and this is it, so we’ve tested nine of the UAE’s best gelaterie and ice cream parlours (p35), gaining a few pounds in the process (no need to thank us, just doing our jobs). The onset of the quieter, farcically broiling months, it seems, is also the ideal time to open a new, internationally celebrated, big name restaurant – like The Ivy, for example. Our verdict on the Dubai version of one of London’s most famous restaurants can be found in the following pages (p34) and, because one restaurant is never enough, you can also see what we thought of the DIFC branch of global Chinese restaurant chain Royal China (p38). Imported names are also on The Critic’s mind this month, and you can read what he has to say here (p40). So, gorged on the finest ice cream in the Emirates and reeling from dinner at The Ivy, you can also find out what we thought of recently opened ‘Meditarabian’ restaurant M’s at Emirates Golf Club, two new Dubai brunches (p39) and a couple of afternoon teas (p36). Still not satisfactorily sated? Then why not whip yourself up a spot of supper with the first of our new monthly Twitter recipes (p36)? That should keep you going until August. Salutê.

M'S RESTAURANT

Gareth Rees, Features & Food Editor

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 33

EATING OUT

On the menu Wrap your chops around these summery treats BRING YOUR CLEGS We’ve long believed that the letter C is underrated. And it seems the Cavalli Club Restaurant & Lounge at the Fairmont Hotel is in agreement, as it’s running a specially crafted Seven Cs seven-course menu for the entire month of July.

Why Seven Cs you ask? Well, young landlubber, it’s because the Cavalli menu will offer up canapés, caviar, chocolate, cocktails, cheese, coffees and other concoctions (see what they’ve done there?). Crikey.

Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: 04 3329260. www.fairmont.com/dubai LIGHTENING LUNCHES Just because you only have an hour for lunch doesn’t mean you have to inhale a cheese and pickle sandwich at your desk.

Pop down to one of three Rotana hotels (Villa, Rimal or Rihab) where you will be able to enjoy a three-course lunch for just Dhs59 in less than 50 minutes. The best bit? If it takes longer than 50 minutes you don’t pay a dirham.

Villa Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Rimal Rotana, Murraqabat Street, Deira, Dubai and Rihab Rotana, Garhoud, Dubai, Dhs59.

Tel: (04) 7054277. www.rotana.com FRESH START Al Fresco. Not an Italian mobster, but an Italian restaurant at Crowne Plaza Dubai, and one with a new menu, at that. Chef Marco Turatti is clearly a fiercely loyal Italian and the menu sings with antipasti, contorni and zuppe. But it's the mains that grab our attention. More than the stereotypical pasta and pizza (although those classics are on offer), you can delve into the baked lamb rack, the braised grouper in mussel stock, or even the roasted duck breast with polenta. Delizioso.

Al Fresco, Crowne Plaza Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 331 1111 www.crowneplaza.com 34 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

The Ivy The grand, old, British culinary institution has, after much hooha and tantalising delay, opened in Dubai. But has it been worth the wait?

Some people, including our very own The Critic (p40), bemoan the fact that so many of the city’s ritziest and most chinwagged about restaurants are concepts imported from more established culinary destinations, or wear the name of a superstar chef like a badge of honour, hopefully guaranteeing quality. But we believe that these international colossi provide a benchmark for new, hopefully local, enterprises and keep Dubai firmly in the global culinary consciousness.

In our minds, The Ivy was always welcome, as long as it lived up to expectations. And we have had plenty of time, and opportunity, to watch The Ivy grow – to develop from a delicious rumour to a full-blown restaurant.

We talked to the (then newly appointed) executive chef Colin Clague about it prior to Taste Of Dubai, we sampled dishes from the menu with the team from Caprice Holdings, the company behind the London restaurant prior to the opening and twice in the finished restaurant. It’s fair to say that, during these numerious visits, we’ve had The Ivy experience, and tasted perhaps 70 per cent of the unpretentious menu.

An alluring list of hors d’oeuvres sets the tone, and we were impressed by the venison carpaccio drizzled with a zingy, but not overpowering, citrus and rosemary dressing; a shrewd and perfectly balanced salad of hoisin smothered duck, water melon and cashew nuts; a slightly overgenerous (not a complaint you hear often from these quarters) portion of a fine smoked salmon; a beef tartar,

chopped rather than criminally minced, and, of course, the famous bang bang chicken.

Of the mains, we enjoyed a poached lobster salad with artichoke and fennel, just heavy enough for dinner if you’re having the full three courses (and you should be), sea bass – mildly spicy, baked and served in a banana leaf – and a monstrous veal chop in anchovy butter.

The shepherd’s pie was divine, while a plate stacked with calfs’ liver with bacon in a delicious gravy was probably one for liver lovers only.

A classic beef burger, not trying to be something it was never meant to be as so many burgers are these days, didn’t disappoint, likewise the nice cut of Aussie grain-fed fillet with a bowl of charmingly fat chips and, finally, a salute to the magnificent fillet of cod with salty samphire and the tastiest clams we’ve ever eaten in Dubai.

We also devoured a decent sticky toffee pudding, the playful chocolate bombe, a health conscious plate of Scandinavian iced berries and the selection of English cheeses. But forget that last

follow me

sentence and order the gooseberry pie with custard – it’s the finest dessert we’ve eaten this year, perhaps ever.

If we have one criticism, it is the location – no windows and an indoor “outdoor” area, an unwelcome reminder to diners that they are in a mall. But the design, conjuring images of a Victorian-era gentleman’s club, with its polished wood, racing green leather seats, aged mirrors, rather good artwork, white table linen and stained glass, is precisely as one would wish it to be. As is The Ivy itself.

Need to know Location: Emirates Towers, The Boulevard, Dubai Tel: (04) 3198767 Web: www.theivy.ae Open: lunch noon to 3pm, dinner 6.30pm to 11pm, bar to 2am Cuisine type: British/ International Must eat: gooseberry pie Bill for two: Dhs550 (sans alcohol)

In tweet form… The Ivy has finally thrown open its doors in Dubai. It certainly doesn’t disappoint. The gooseberry pie alone is worth the visit. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi

EATING OUT

THE TAKE AWAY TEST

BASKIN ROBBINS

We asked 12 ice cream parlours for their most popular flavour in their smallest take-away size.

Here's what we bought…

HAAGEN-DAZS

COLD STONE CREAMERY

Strawberry Cheesecake TASTING NOTES: Smooth and not sickly sweet, this scoop is one of the mighty Haagen-Dazs’ classics. It has a good fruit to biscuit ratio, too.

PRICE: Dhs14 Various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2229247. www.haagen-dazs.com

Cookie Doughnut TASTING NOTES: Filled with chocolate chips, lumps of cookie dough and caramel sauce mixed in, this is one for those with a sweet tooth. The wafer waffle basket was a bit soggy, though.

PRICE: Dhs22 Various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3996526. Abu Dhabi Mall, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6455316

CONE STREET

BRUNETTI

LONDON DAIRY

Biscotto Cookies TASTING NOTES: Thick, creamy and not too sweet. The biscuit crumbs lifted what was otherwise a pretty bland ice cream into the realms of tastiness.

PRICE: Dhs12 The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4486401. www.cone-street.com

Rocher TASTING NOTES: This is five-star luxury ice cream. The single scoop was light with an intense flavour, identical to the popular Ferrero Rocher chocolates. We’d love to know how they do that.

PRICE: Dhs13 The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3398173

Chocolate Hazelnut TASTING NOTES: An exceedingly creamy chocolate ice cream with a strong nutty flavour, choc full of chunks of chocolate and hazelnut.

PRICE: Dhs6 Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3415727. Marina Mall, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6815181. www.mylondondairy.com

LA FRAGOLA

FORTY

GALLER

GELATO DIVINO

Forest Berries TASTING NOTES: A nice break from the creamier varieties, the Forest Berries is intense, tart – almost sour – and refreshing.

Perfect for the summer.

PRICE: Dhs12 Souk Al Bahar, Old Town, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3661688

Fruity Ice Cream Storm TASTING NOTES: Reminiscent of Mr Whippy ice cream with sweet caramel sauce bringing back childhood memories of summers past. Chunks of over-sweet fruit salad were not so nice.

PRICE: Dhs12 Various locations, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Tel: (02) 6354511. www.fortyfruity.ae

Mocha TASTING NOTES: The portion size is a touch measly, but this could win over the most ardent coffee hater.

Delectably smooth, the initially strong mocha taste soon subsides.

PRICE: Dhs10 Various locations, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4437147. www.galler.com

Cheesecake TASTING NOTES: A sophisticated version of raspberry ripple ice cream. GD's wares are freshly prepared by a genuine Italian chef.

PRICE: Dhs12 Various locations, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Tel: (02) 4437070. www.gelatodivino.com

Choc Trilogy TASTING NOTES: A mesh of chocolate types, Choc Trilogy was, perhaps unsurprisingly, crammed with pieces of chocolate.

Unfortunately, the ice cream was a little grainy. Not one for aficionados.

PRICE: Dhs8 Various locations, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Tel: (04) 2653696/ (02) 6267478. www.baskinrobbins.com

MORELLI’S GELATO Pistachio TASTING NOTES: A classic Italian ice cream flavour presented well.

This scoop was light, sweet, nutty and perfectly put together.

PRICE: Dhs13 The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3398313. Khalidiyah Mall, Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6354698. www.morellisgelato.com

MARBLE SLAB CREAMERY Birthday Cake TASTING NOTES: A flavour dependant on toppings – the thick, creamy ice cream is plain, but with the right adornment it came to life.

PRICE: Dhs16 Various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3411182. Marina Mall, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6818160

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 35

EATING OUT

A taste of things to come Seek out new feeding grounds this summer ESCA CAFÉ You don’t have to jet off to Italy to bask in the oh so stylish Italian caffé culture. The Esca Café at the Qamardeen Hotel in Downtown Dubai tempts you to wrap your lips around a lingering cappuccino or nibble on some sweet pastarelle treats. If you ask nicely, they’ll even set you up a cheeky shisha. Not Italian but, hey, who’s complaining.

Qamardeen Hotel, Old Town, Dubai, 7am to midnight. Tel: (04) 4285888 FANR We haven’t quite figured out how to pronounce it yet, but Fanr (fan-r?), the new restaurant at Saadiyat Island’s Manarat Al Saadiyat, boasts enough room for 250 diners, and chef Jihab Bawabejy promises a tidy catchall menu, including hearty dishes like Moroccan lamb shank and fish sayadia.

Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: (02) 6575888 LIME TREE CAFÉ It’s no secret that Dubai loves the Lime Tree Café. But if more evidence was needed, the opening of its fourth branch – the second one this year – is it. Their simple, homemade grub is a hit with everyone from Jumeirah Jaynes to ravenous office workers, and if the Beach Road branch is anything to go by, it’s best to arrive early to ensure a table.

The Lime Tree Café & Kitchen, opposite Royal Mirage Hotel, Media City, Dubai, 8am to 8pm. Tel: (04) 3256325 www. thelimetreecafe.com 36 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Afternoon teas

NEW

Practice drinking cups of tea with your little fingers just so, at this duo of new afternoon soirées THE LOUNGE, PARK HYATT DUBAI WHERE? Taking a comfortable seat in the serene environs of The Lounge at Park Hyatt Dubai is an immediately relaxing experience. Read the daily papers while watching the wind blowing through the treetops below the dull summer sky. The ideal manner in which to while away a hot and humid Saturday afternoon.

ON THE MENU? It takes a determined pair to make their way through the three tiers of naughty delicacies begging to be devoured, but it simply wouldn’t be right to leave any of the lovely treats unscoffed. Smoked salmon and cucumber and cream cheese sarnies sans crusts, mozzarella and tomato rolls, scones with pots of jam, cream and lemon curd, and numerous pastries and cakes – the best of which were the chocolate éclairs (leave them until last). And, of course, there are numerous teas and coffees to wash it all done, as well as a glass of prosecco. Those concerned about their weight may bemoan the absence of more savoury nibbles but, after all, cakes are what afternoon tea is all about.

The Lounge, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, daily from 2pm to 6pm, Dhs140 for two, Dhs220 for

two with champagne. Tel: (04) 6021234. www.dubai.park.hyatt. com

coffees, plus bubbly. You’re best to book in even numbers as the plates and platters are to share, with the first round boasting duplicates of mini dishes.

Offerings including a smoked salmon open sandwich in the shape of a dress, complete with cream cheese bodice and chive bow, and an egg mayonnaise ‘sun hat’ are the stuff of little girls’ fantasy tea parties. Next up is a towering sculpture of all things sugary; couture cakes, a chocolate almond stiletto, macaroon corsages, evening bags made of white chocolate, a carrot cake tote, shortbread sundresses and a chic slice of scone, served with strawberry jelly and clotted cream in a tube. This is the kind of tea you could linger over for the full five hours, or whizz through before heading to the mall to try to find an outfit as sweet as the one you just feasted on.

Raffles, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily from 2pm to 7pm, Dhs199 for two, or Dhs399 for two with champagne. Tel: (04) 3248888. www.raffles.com

RAFFLES WHERE? The peaceful café in the lobby of Raffles is a world away from mall mayhem, boorish brunches and hideous humidity, with low sofas and elegant décor providing a serene backdrop to the daily afternoon tea.

ON THE MENU? Dotted throughout the café are fashioninspired paintings by artist Hetty Pedder, so it’s no surprise that The Collection, Raffles’ new afternoon tea, features sartorially stylish snacks and a selection of teas and

TWITTER RECIPE Enjoy the first of our monthly recipes in just 140 characters POMEGRANATE LAMB GLAZE Brush meat with chopped garlic, English mustard, thyme, ginger, pomegranate molasses, soy sauce, season, roast.

Omar Romero, head chef, Rhodes Twenty10 Le Royal Méridien, Dubai, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3995555. www.leroyalmeridien-dubai.com Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi

our H y

Hap

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M’s

LUNCH

8 7

1/2 AD

Rosso Daily Happy Hour

Our authentic Italian bar and restaurant offers a relaxed and trendy meeting place to unwind after a long day's work. The contemporary bar and restaurant serves casual Italian cuisine and stylish beverages in a Mediterranean atmosphere.

Is “Mediterrabian” cuisine as silly as it sounds?

Remember your mum telling you not to judge a book by its cover? Well, that’s sound advice when it comes to M’s restaurant, the newest dining addition at Emirate’s Golf Club. Amusingly billed as a “Mediterrabian” restaurant, our concern was that the cuisine would be muddled – a mishmash of conflicting culinary styles. However, the variety of olives, capsicums, aubergines, mashed beetroot, tabouli and other wonderful Mediterranean ingredients on the buffet were impressive. The lunch buffet costs Dhs62, and you can tuck in to as much salad and dessert as you please.

And, if you fancy something

Enjoy our special beverage promotions every day between 6:00pm and 9:00pm.

more substantial, M’s signature skewers (Dhs70 to Dhs80) – served, rather confusingly as it is neither a Mediterranean nor Arabian country, in the style of Portuguese espetada on a suspended skewer – were sublime.

Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, noon to 2.30pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3802222. www.dubaigolf. com

For more information please call +971 (0)4 428 3088 or visit rotanatimes.com.

NEW @ Rosso. Accoustic Duo every Wednesday night and Resident DJ every Thursday and Friday night.

Offer is valid on selected beverages. This promotion is not valid in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 37

EATING OUT

Royal China Popular in London and Singapore, will DIFC’s newest offering prove a success in the UAE?

Dubai is not overrun with Chinese restaurants, so the arrival of a big name from across the seas is always welcome.

Royal China is a successful chain, especially in London, so it’s probably a good bet there are more to come. But for now, we have the new restaurant in DIFC – the most exciting location for new restaurants in Dubai at present, with Zuma and La Petite Maison already established, The Ivy up and running and Hakkasan on its way.

Tough competition.

As with most restaurants in Dubai, the space came first and the restaurant second, but local firm LW Design, responsible for Dubai favourites Okku and Rhodes Twenty10, has done its best to make the restaurant welcoming with a cocktail bar (yet to be licensed), red and black colour scheme and tasselled, jelly fish-like lights drooping from the ceiling.

Royal China might truly come into its own when its outdoor tables can be utilised. Now, it’s a little bit claustrophobic.

But the tasting menu we sampled contained some dishes worth going back for – maybe when the restaurant is more established, and licensed to whip up those cocktails it’s so eager to serve.

Two small dishes containing some morsels to wake up our palate arrived first – moreish shreds of pickled turnip and mushrooms – described lovingly by the waiter as “fungus” – served with sauce that tasted of bubble gum and was, surprisingly, agreeable.

Then came a huge – the manager later admitted it was

“too big” – bowl of tom yum seafood soup strong enough to make our noses run, garnering it an instant thumbs up, and deep fried oysters, which we were directed to wrap in a crisp lettuce leaf and dip in Worcester sauce.

We did. And we didn’t regret it.

The cold snap of the lettuce, the warm crunch of the batter and, at last, the slippery flesh of the oyster – a glorious combination of textures.

The most substantial dishes were several pretty standard duck pancakes, made for us at the table – though we were given the option to construct our own.

There were, unhappily, a couple of unwelcome bones. But, a few spoonfuls of prawn fried rice and a few hunks of deep fried fillets of soft, gleaming fish in a thick, orange sweet and sour sauce filled any space remaining in our bellies.

Dessert – a melted vanilla ice cream – was odd and not quite there yet, but satisfying nonetheless. Just like Royal China.

Need to know Location: The Balcony, Precinct Building 4, DIFC, Dubai Tel: (04) 3545543 Web: www.royalchinadubai. com Open: noon to 11pm Cuisine type: Cantonese Must eat: deep-fried oysters Bill for two: set taster menu Dhs150 per person

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In tweet form… Royal China is not quite ready to take on the big boys at DIFC yet, but the successful international chain serves some solid Chinese dishes. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi

d soup garnered an “…a bowl of tom yum seafoo 38 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

instant thumbs up”

TESTED

New brunches Our verdict on two of the UAE’s newest brunches MARGAUX The less gluttonous approach of the Margaux brunch is a welcome change of pace. The two starters, main and dessert you order from the specially devised a la carte brunch menu are served at well judged intervals, which, of course, frees you up to sip the unlimited Moet Champagne and cocktails.

When it comes to the food, we still miss the more obviously French Margaux of old and still have our doubts about its new, mainstream direction. But there’s no denying chef Jason Oakley knows his way around a kitchen, and the food was, undeniably, good. Oysters on the half shell in a bowl of ice and asparagus rolled in pressed wagyu beef were well executed starters, there was a nice cut of sirloin steak for main and the tennis ball-size doughnuts served with ice cream and various dollops of sauce were pleasingly playful – if a little unsophisticated. There’s nothing to blow your mind, and maybe we could warm to the new Margaux a little easier if they would just take down that dreadful picture of Bono.

Margaux Restaurant & Lounge,

Souk Al Bahar, Old Town, Dubai, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs495 with champagne, Dhs375 with house beverages, Dhs250 with soft drinks. Tel: (04) 4397555. www.margaux.ae TERRA FIRMA Terra Firma, tucked away at the Al Badia Golf Club, is what is often referred to as a hidden gem. Rather too well hidden, unfortunately. But you should make the effort to go and find it, especially considering the launch of its amiable new Grapes and Roast brunch. Not quite the sunny affair that the Blades picnic brunch – back in October – is during the cooler months, the Terra Firma brunch is, despite being a rather muted at the moment, an exquisite and peaceful affair. And the menu is perfectly judged, consisting of a succession of light dishes brought to your table, followed by a carving station offering a choice of three roasts with all the trimmings, including roast beef and Yorkshire pudding and, finally, a dessert station.

All helped on its way by a quaffable red it is ideal preparation for a summer siesta.

Terra Firma, Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai Festival City, Dubai, Fri noon to 4pm, Dhs330, Dhs195 without alcohol. Tel: (04) 7011127. www.albadiagolfclub.ae

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ONE

LEFT BANK MORE It’s probably better known for its cocktails, and the new a la TO TRY carte brunch at Left Bank, Souk Al Bahar, seems designed to enjoy with something shaken and stirred, serving up dishes of finger food such as chicken satay skewers, spiced tiger prawns with paprika mayonnaise, mini Angus beef burgers, braised New Zealand lamb and mini fish and chips. Cocktails and nothing too big or cumbersome from the kitchen – the lounge lizard’s idea of the Friday brunch.

Left Bank, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, Fri noon to 4pm, Dhs275. Tel: (04) 3684501

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 39

THE CRITIC

James Brennan knows food. Having written on everything from bhajis to burgers for a string of international publications, James is now the Middle East chairman of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants judging panel.

Don’t miss his monthly musings every issue.

“THEY APPEARED ALMOST OVERNIGHT, AS IF SOMEONE HAD WHEELED IN A GIANT TROJAN HORSE JAMMED TO THE FETLOCKS WITH CELEBRITY CHEFS AND LEFT IT IN JUMEIRAH”

Ivy has opened over here, which, of course – being the switched-on bunch of rampant guzzlers you are – you already knew. But instead of a joyous chorus of whimpering delight and knee-knocking excitement, how come all I can hear is a The Ivy is one of a rare breed of jaded collective “meh”? lucky restaurants. The famous It’s not exactly the first big haunt of celebrities and theaname from overseas to settle tre-goers in London’s West End its stoves in the UAE. Among is somewhere that food critic the numerous, and notorious, AA Gill has said something brands to grace our shores nice about. “A table at The Ivy are Rainer Becker’s Zuma, La is one of the most sought-after Petite Maison and The Ivy’s pieces of furniture in London,” sister restaurant, Rivington wrote the grumpy grand-père Grill. Alan Yau’s glam Chinese terrible of British restaurant restaurant, Hakkasan, graces criticism, wittily. High praise Emirates Palace, but Abu Dhabi indeed from a man who once shouldn’t feel too special, as shot a baboon. there’s a Hakkasan in Miami, Well, now you too can enjoy a Istanbul and Mumbai as well. morsel of that urbane celebThen we have the big name drenched sophistication – by chefs. Gordon Ramsay was one association, if not directly. The of the first to see the potential 40 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

of Dubai when he opened Verre in 2001. Then the floodgates opened – Gary Rhodes, Pierre Gagnaire, Nobu Matsuhisa, Giorgio Locatelli, Vineet Bhatia, Antonio Carluccio, Marco Pierre White... They appeared almost overnight, as if someone had wheeled in a giant Trojan horse jammed to the fetlocks with celebrity chefs and left it in Jumeirah.

Among them was Jamie Oliver. It’s hard to tell apart the man from the brand these days, what with his increasingly plump face appearing on everything from magazines to frying pans. But while a frying pan is a frying pan, whether it’s in London or Dubai, a restaurant doesn’t always make such a seamless transition.

For some, Oliver’s disappointing Dubai venture was the final straw, and those big

overseas names are becoming increasingly passé. Not even rumours that the likes of Alain Ducasse and Joel Robuchon will soon be planting their flags in UAE soil can whip up any fervour in some quarters (ie mine).

While it’s easy to grow disillusioned about the homogenisation of the world’s cities, we should remind ourselves that scattered among the UAE’s foreign imports are a few home-grown gems worthy of excitement. The contemporary Japanese restaurant Okku, for example, is Dubai born and bred and wholly deserving of our patronage. Not only that, but it’s rumoured soon to be turning the tables on London and opening up there.

When AA Gill gets wind of that, he’ll probably wipe out an entire safari park.

COURTESY OF THE ARTIST GEORGES BASSIL

ARTS

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Stage-struck Affordable art Art Insider Five to see

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 43

ARTS

Stage-struck Summer musicals in Dubai are like buses – there isn’t one for ages, then two come along at once. We catch a ride with some of the performers as Camp Rock and West Side Story prepare to take the city’s stages by storm JOHN PAYTON, PRODUCER OF CAMP ROCK, POPULAR PRODUCTIONS You’ve chosen Camp Rock as this year’s summer show – what’s the appeal?

Camp Rock is a lot of fun. It has engaging and catchy songs, high-energy dance routines and 44 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

a witty script. There’s a great summer vibe and will prove perfect for families craving some indoor entertainment, away from the heat. It’s instant entertainment. I can’t get the tunes out of my head.

It was originally a film – how has it been adapted for the stage?

The original Disney film introduced The Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato to the world, and it had a sequel last summer which did just as well. The stage version has the best songs from both movies but features the story from Camp Rock 2 with the battle between rival music camps at the heart of the action.

All the characters are present and it’s pretty faithful to the movie, but it has been given a few tweaks to impact on live audiences.

Once again you’ve auditioned in the UAE to find new talent to star – how impressed have you been with the local talent?

As always, very impressed. There really is a wealth of talent here. Nearly all of the roles are cast from the very best of the auditions – we had 500 apply to be in the cast so the

competition was tough. We also have a handful of pros joining the cast. Most have worked on West End productions and UK tours. We hope one day that the UAE will have a strong enough entertainment industry that the local emerging talent will become the pros. Many of our audiences have remarked that it’s always hard to tell the difference between the visiting cast and local.

You seem to be coming to the UAE more and more regularly with an ever expanding portfolio – what’s the ongoing appeal for you and Popular?

We’ve worked hard to develop entertainment here. It’s exciting for us to be part of the growth of an industry that’s so important the world over. The UAE has been good to us; it’s an ever-changing challenge and we feel it’s important to keep producing the best for as long as we can so we’d like to think we’ll be here for some time yet.

Jul 11 to 16, Camp Rock, Madinat Theatre, Dubai, Dhs120. Tel: (800) 4669. www. madinattheatre.com

ARTS SHONA WHITE, PERFORMER, WEST SIDE STORY So, West Side Story:: surely one of the greatest all-time musicals?

Obviously you’ve got popular modern musicals like Mamma Mia, but this is one of the most iconic traditional musicals, with fantastic music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, who’s one of my favourite lyricists and composers. I just think it’s one of the best – and the story’s based on Romeo and Juliet, so it’s a fantastic love story as well.

And Anita is a great role – you get to perform some great songs: America, Tonight...

And she’s feisty and I’m quite feisty myself.

She’s strong-willed and caring – she takes Maria under her wing.

Are you looking forward to working with the local talent?

I’ve done a few summer schools – a couple based on Wicked and a Mamma Mia – where I’ve worked with children for about a week on singing and movement, leading up to a showcase but never for a full-scale production, so this is going to be something new. I think it’s going to be a really good experience. It’s always good to give something back and remember what it was like to be so young and excited. I guess it reminds me where I came from and why I wanted to do it in the first place.

You’ve been working in theatre for 13 years. What does it take to become a professional performer?

A great deal of hard work and dedication; it’s a very tough business. There’s a lot of knockbacks. Seen from outside, because my CV’s quite full, it’s easy to think I must work constantly, but it’s not true – there are down periods so it takes tenacity, hard work and dedication but, to be honest, a little bit of luck doesn’t hurt. It does help to be in the right place at the right time. You need to stick in there.

Jul 19 to 23, West Side Story, DUCTAC Theatre, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, Dhs135.

Tel: (04) 3414777. www.ductac.org

“AUDIENCES HAVE REMARKED THAT IT’S HARD TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE VISITING CAST AND LOCAL”

Affordable art

Looking at art on gallery walls is all very well but what art lover hasn’t, at some time or other, had a hankering to take what they’ve seen home with them? Trouble is, for many of us our art passions run rather deeper than our pockets. So we were delighted to receive news from Meem’s in-house publishing imprint about the release of the Dia Al-Azzawi Retrospective.

A comprehensive account of the Baghdadborn multimedia artist who has been one of the leading proponents of contemporary Middle Eastern art over the course of his six decades-spanning career, it has been produced to the highest standard in a limited-edition run of 900 copies.

The US$500 price tag might seem a lot.

But put it into context against a limitededition artist print (or, heaven forfend, the cost of an original piece) and the fact that it could, as some limited-editions do, become a valuable collectible in its own right, and it starts to look like a bargain.

In fact, at over 500 pages in length (less than a dollar a page), they’re practically giving it away. Ok, that might be rather overstating it, but you get the point – art

Ayyam Editions More limited-edition news – this time in the more traditional format of art prints. The freshly-launched Ayyam Editions is selling archival prints by photographer Ammar AlBeik and painters Safwan Dahoul and Khaled Takreti – on display all this month at Ayyam Gallery DIFC. www.ayyamgallery.com

books are an accessible, informative and (relatively) affordable entree into the world of collecting. And Meem isn’t the only local imprint to be doing it – The Third Line’s series of art books have long been a What’s On favourite and wouldn’t you know it, they too have a newly-released limited-edition for sale. Jalal Abuthina’s District 333: Beyond the Surface is a documentary of graffiti he has photographed around Dubai (and very surprising some of it is too) and all 100 books have been signed by the artist. www.meemartgallery.com www.thethirdline.com

Swamp life Don’t miss your chance to catch Jeff Achtem’s ker-razy show Swamp Juice – a hit at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival and coming to Dubai Marina Mall this month. Canadian Achtem harnesses ‘lo-fi’ shadow puppetry to capture life in a swamp – as you do – complete with punk snails and opera-singing mice. A must-see for families. For more see page 15.

Jul 23 to 31, Theatrespace, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3116536.

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 45

THE ART INSIDER

Five minutes with...

Moza Al Abbar, founder of The Ara Gallery

Art historian, dedicated collector and managing director of Dubai’s Meem Gallery, Charles Pocock knows the UAE art scene like the back of a Picasso. Do you have an art question for Charles? E-mail: editor-wo@ motivate.ae Clients, unsurprisingly, often ask me about the pricing of art. And the answer is that prices can differ greatly, depending on where you make the purchase.

A sculpture by Egyptian artist Ahmed Askalany was sold at a Dubai auction in April 2011 for $118,000; the same work, from the same series, by the same artist, is also available from the artist’s gallery at $22,000.

I bought an original work by Iraqi artist Suad Al Attar at a London auction in June 2011 for $24,000; her gallery has similar work at $72,000. This shows that prices can be vastly different, and the location of the sale is neither here nor there. So, a potential buyer needs to go into both arenas having done their research. With access to the infinite resources available on the internet, there is no excuse not to be informed.

46 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Knowledge is everything when it comes to buying art.

The official gallery prices are set by the artist with the gallery, with both parties in agreement that the works cannot be sold for above this price. A good example of this is the work of Parviz Tanavoli (we act as his agents).

The work Heech Lovers (Fibreglass) is available at Meem for $48,000, this being the set price confirmed by the artist. Another gallery in Dubai is currently selling the same work for $90,000. This inflated price makes no sense, and the buyer needs to be made aware of the correct prices.

Many people will argue that the value of an artwork is set at the price someone is prepared to pay for it – in some instances this is true, others not.

A specific piece might be required for a collection, and it takes only two people at an auction, chasing after the same work, to drive the price through the roof.

That is a case of demand driving up the price. But marking up an artist’s work by almost 50 per cent is something else entirely. Buyers beware.

Remember the golden rule. Research is paramount, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to any work priced over $30,000. It is also essential to look at provenance and certificates of authenticity, a topic I will discuss in due course.

Ara showcases emerging Emirati artists – why is that important to you?

Actually, the Ara Gallery’s intention is to showcase emerging Arab artists generally, not only Emirati artists.

I believe Ara is a great complement to the existing institutions and art galleries in that it provides a very professional space for artists to begin paving their way.

And you raise money for charity We partnered with Habitat for Humanity (HFH) in our opening exhibition and raised Dhs163,000 through the auction with Christie’s for HFH Lesotho’s Orphans and Vulnerable Children’s programme. We have also created a book featuring the children that participated in the project whereby 50 per cent of proceeds of sales go back to the kids. We’ve also allocated 2.5 per cent of each sold art piece for the children.

Do you see any particular trends in Emirati art in terms of themes being represented or mediums being used?

Emirati artists use a lot of cultural elements in their artwork. Of course this does not apply to all, but I believe it is safe to say that Emirati’s generally love representing their culture in their general conversations, lifestyle, and art as well.

What can we see now?

We have an exhibition with AUD showcasing their senior class and a summer exhibition, UAE: A Work of Art, showcasing seven Emirati artists with works that represent what the UAE is to them. www.thearagallery.ae

Frocktastic!

This looks set to be the year of the show-stopping frock. Design and textile students from Herriot Watt University have teamed up with Mawaheb from Beautiful People, the Dubai-based art studio for young adults with special needs, to produce a one-off piece of wearable art.

Incorporating 20 hand-painted squares depicting iconic Dubai architecture, it comes complete with a fourmetre train and headdress. On view at the Mall Of The Emirates branch of More Café until the end of July – Kate Middleton eat your heart out. www.mawaheb-dubai.com www.hw.ac.uk/dubai

Get ready to enter the record books. Travel on a journey through the history of the U.A.E to above the clouds and beyond your highest expectations. With timed ticketing for your convenience, visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa to see Dubai as it has never been seen before.

For more information please call us on 800 AT THE TOP, or visit www.atthetop.ae to purchase your tickets today.

ARTS

Five to see

ÅHEROES & VILLAINS

ÅSNAIL FEVER

Photography, installation, video and painting all feature in this group summer show. Where things get clever is in the concept – by using music as a theme for the individual artists to explore we, the viewer, get two art forms for the price of one. Fascinating.

Until Jul 28.,The Third Line, Al Quoz 3, Dubai., free Tel: (04) 3411367. www.thethirdline.com

A group exhibition from this Al Serkal Avenue newbie. The concept?

That in these uneasy times, separating – or even identifying – the villains from the heroes in world affairs large and small is a nigh-on impossible task. What these eight artists, who include Abraaj Capital Art Prize winner Marwan Sahmarani, do is get you thinking and questioning – just as good art should.

Until Jul 21, Unit 21, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3469906. www.lawrieshabibi.com

ÉDIVISION BY ZERO

Anahita Razmi, Mathias Garnitschnig, Aamir Habib and Florian Hafel form this group exhibition which aims to explore the criss-crossing boundaries of contemporary art, from concept to form and between the personal and the political. Yet another strong showing from Carbon 12.

Until Sept 15, Carbon 12, Warehouse D37, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz Dubai, free. Tel: (050) 4644392. www.carbon12dubai. com

ÑOF BLIND MEN & ELEPHANTS

The somewhat folkloric exhibition title offers a flavour of what to expect: quirky, personal takes on contemporary India, as captured by six emerging photographers. As rich and varied as the country it attempts to catch the flavour of.

Until Jul 31, The Empty Quarter Gallery, Building 2, DIFC, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3231210. www. theemptyquartergallery.com 48 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

ÅARTWORKS OF GEORGES BASSIL

JBR’s Vindemia gallery moves inland this month, with a showcase of work by Lebanese painter Georges Bassil at Aspen in the Kempinski Hotel. The artist’s portraits, inspired by the voices of some of the 20th century’s greatest female singers, from Billy Holiday and Maria Callas to Um Kulthum, are suitably haunting and lyrical.

Until Aug 2, Aspen, Kempinski Hotel, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3410000. www.vindemia2010.dukkanarabia.com

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Second chance shopping Summer essentials Sophia says...

New openings JULY 2011 WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON 51

S*UCE

SHOPPING

SHOPPING

The bookworm What’s our little, green friend reading this month?

THE DISPATCHER Ryan David Jahn

This, the third novel from award-winning crime author Ryan David Jahn, is a must for fans of the genre. Based in a small town in East Texas, police dispatcher (phone operator) Ian Hunt is finishing up his shift when he receives a phone call from his daughter, Maggie.

Odd? Not under normal circumstances, but Maggie has been dead for seven years. The mystery unfolds at a furious pace and is likely to keep you up into the wee small hours of the morning.

COMES THE NIGHT Hollis Hampton-Jones

Dark and uncompromising, Comes The Night tells the story of Meade, a 19year-old girl dealing with several issues of addiction, including an infatuation with her twin brother, Ben Ho. Living in Paris, far from her home town of Nashville, Meade’s life begins to spiral out of control as she delves in the glamorous and murky past of her fashion photographer lover. The author uses her own experiences of living in Paris and Nashville to add gritty realism.

A METHOD ACTOR’S GUIDE TO JEKYLL AND HYDE

Secondchance shopping Fast fashion, retail therapy and all those malls mean many of us have unworn clothes lurking, tags intact, in our wardrobes. So what to do with these guilt-inducing garments?

Sian Rowlands and her sisters, Bekky and Teagan, used to be like you – wardrobes bursting at the seams with shopping bags, clothes worn once then forgotten and credit cards thoroughly exhausted. But over lunch, they hatched a plan – to create a website that enabled members to sell their clothes online, not necessarily designer or vintage pieces, just high street fashion in good condition. “The My Ex Wardrobe concept was born from my frustration at the bags of clothes I’d emptied from my wardrobe, mostly worn once or twice but some still had tags on,” Sian explains. “In a consumer driven market like Dubai, there’s not really an avenue to sell on these clothes for a decent price, so why not create one?”

After a successful soft launch in May, the sisters are planning regular events and meet-ups to complement the website, where budget-conscious fashionistas can come along to buy, sell, or both. “A lot of people have been

From left to right, Teagan, Sian and Bekky

affected by the downturn and now have less disposable income,” says Sian. “We want to provide an avenue for them to get a bargain and get some money back.”

Each event will be themed, and the next will focus on revitalising your holiday wardrobe, with drinks included in the entry cost, plus stylists and make-up experts on hand for minimakeovers. In the future, the Rowlands sisters plan to open up My Ex Wardrobe to maternity clothing, menswear and children’s fashion so everyone can benefit from the concept. So what advice would they give other budding UAE entrepreneurs? “Long-standing expats often say ‘It’s not what you know; it’s who you know’ and when it comes to setting up a business in Dubai, that is true.”

Jul 9, Mahi Mahi, Wafi, Dubai, 3pm to 6.30pm, Dhs85. E-mail: event@ myexwardrobe.com

Kevin MacNeil

All set to play the lead in a production of Jekyll And Hyde, egotistical actor Robert Lewis nearly cops it as a car hits his bike. On recovering, he starts to notice that the people around him are treating him differently. The pace and dark humour give the book its character, but it is the subtly of the story that incrementally builds into an all-revealing pay off.

All books available from Magrudy’s, Borders, Jashanmal and Kinokuniya 52 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Sister bliss More UAE-based sisters who are doing it for themselves

embellished with sequins.

E-mail: sevenminutes@ikibrand.com

SEVEN MINUTES Twins Dina and Lina Sam were born seven minutes apart, and 27 years later the stylish duo set up their own fashion label. Seven Minutes has just launched a daring range of revolver themed clutch bags (from Dhs899)

MOZA AND MARIAM AL MAZRO Emirati sisters Moza and Mariam showcased their respective collections at this year’s Dubai Fashion Week, with Moza’s G’Maash brand reflecting Western styles and Mariam’s Mimi label boasting bright, modern jalabiyas. Ones to watch in 2011. www.dfw.ae

SUMMER ESSENTIALS Take your holiday wardrobe from dull to dazzling with these must-pack items. Suntan not included SHADY LADY Ideal for a city break, these sunnies will never betray your tourist status. When in Rome...

Bulgari, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs1,350. Tel: (04) 3308834

BEACH TO BAR Very J Lo in Versace circa 2000, this glam maxi will up your style stakes all day and all night.

Mumbai Se, Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Dhs2,895. Tel: (04) 3997232

SNAKE HIPS

HERMES IT AIN'T

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On trend and costing less than Dhs150, you can afford to indulge in the latest fashions with your swimwear this year.

Koton, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, Dhs129. Tel: (04) 3410467

This cheeky ‘Birkin’ canvas tote by Banane Taipei comes in nine colours and would work equally well as a beach bag or shopper.

S*uce, The Village Mall, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs460. Tel: (04) 3447270

TUNES ON THE GO

TRUNK SHOW Vilebrequin’s vast choice of colours and prints ensure there’s a design to suit your style. We love the new Lagon collection with its aquatic theme and turtle motif.

Vilebrequin, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, from Dhs495. Tel: (04) 3686531

This digital audio player is MP3 compatible, has 4GB memory, a voice recorder, 15 hour battery life, FM radio and is available in summery hues.

Emax, Oasis Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs189. Tel: (04) 5154444

ARRIVE IN STYLE Designed by pop artist Romero Britto, you won’t lose these colourful cases on the carousel.

Bloomingdale’s Home, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, from Dhs750. Tel: (04) 3505333

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 53

SOPHIA SAYS...

Images

Do you have a fashion question for Sophia?

E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae

We drag the oh-so stylish Sophia Serin away from the helm at Emirates Woman into the grubby What’s On office to answer your wardrobe woes It’s my first summer in Abu Dhabi and with Ramadan just around the corner I need some advice on what I should, and shouldn’t, be wearing.

Susan, Abu Dhabi You should err on the side of caution during the Holy Month, but this doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable. It really is pretty much business as usual – no short skirts to work or too much cleavage, but with a little more attention to detail. Long skirts or cute chinos are winners, as are kaftan tops with capri pants, long sleeve tees and shirts. Summer scarves are also winners as they can be worn loosely around the neck to cover a bare chest or wrapped around shoulders.

Scarf Mango, trousers and top by H&M

I’ve seen loads Dolce&Gabbana of white lace on the catwalks and red carpets. How can I incorporate this trend without looking too bridal?

Jumana, Sharjah The trend that keeps on giving, white lace, or its stylish sister, broderie anglaise, is well worth investing in for seasons to come. Fresh and feminine, layer these lacy numbers with pale blue jeans or don a dress for a fabulous 1950s look. You will be surprised when you actually try the items on that they doesn’t look ‘bridal’ at all if kept at knee-length or worn with coloured shoes.

I’m off to NYC for a holiday next month – how can I avoid looking like a tourist?

What are New Yorkers wearing?

Julia, Dubai Fifth Avenue, Greenwich Village or Tribeca – wherever you go in Manhattan dress codes vary and, much like Paris, anything goes. On the fashion front, there is nothing worse than looking like a tourist (whatever your location) so avoid ‘I heart NY’ T-shirts at all times. If you are on the Upper East Side, be prepared to dress up, everyday, not forgetting to get a blow-dry and mani/pedi. The heat (even by UAE standards) in Manhattan can be stifling in August, so think flip skirts, designer tees, day dresses and ballet pumps, not forgetting designer shades, bag, watch and more. For the evening, an LBD, or black all-in-one teamed with sky-high stilettos wouldn’t be out of place.

If you are heading south-west to The Village, no need for heels of any kind, so instead sport more of a laid-back, cool look. Think distressed designer jeans with vest and gladiator sandals for the cool kids and anything by Polo Ralph Lauren for the preppy set.

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Annoyingly, I stained the hem of my cream chinos with road tar. Can they be rescued?

Farid, Dubai There are many old myths about removing tar from fabric: methylated spirits, rubbing ice cubes over the area, and even using paint thinner. At the end of the day, none of these methods work very well (if at all) and end up damaging the fabric in most cases. My suggestion would be to head to your nearest Gap and grab a new pair.

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 55

New openings

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The latest stores to open their doors LUSH You’ll smell it before you actually see it – as is the case will all LUSH stores. The wonderful aromas, coming from the fruity bath products, are set to waft their way to a new location on the first floor at The Dubai Mall.

The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4356114. www.lush.com Adventure HQ Billing itself as the ultimate outdoor adventure superstore, pretty much says it all. Adventure HQ offers gear for almost any outdoor activity you can think of, from kayaking to diving, from cycling to falconry.

Need more proof? It even has its own instore climbing wall.

Time Square Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3466824. www.adventurehq.ae Noosh Although not based in a physical store, we do like to help out local start-ups. The people behind the online fashion label Noosh are equal parts fashion and coffee fanatics, which lead them to designing clothes perfect for popping out for a quick cuppa. www.nooshcouture.com

Laura Ashley Home Once the preserve of 1980s housewives, these days Laura Ashley shops aren't the floral nightmares you may suspect. Instead, the new homewares store at The Dubai Mall is full of calming colours, quality pieces and contemporary styles, all with a quintessentially English feel. Spread over a whopping 3,300sqft, you'll also find paints, art and accessories, plus a design service.

The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3253245. www.lauraashley.com JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 57

Summer Celebrations

30% discount and complimentary pre-dinner drinks!

Give yourself a reason to celebrate this July.

Book a table at either Amwaj or Marrakech on level 2 and enjoy 30% discount on your total bill. What's more, enjoy complimentary pre-dinner drinks for one hour before your meal.

Reservations are essential. Quote 'Summer Celebrations' when booking.

Minimum table booking of two people.

at www.facebook.com/ShangDubai

Sheikh Zayed Road, P.O. Box 75880, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: (971 4) 343 8888 Fax: (971 4) 343 8886 www.shangri-la.com/dubai

MIND & BODY Totally tropical His 'n' hers Dynamic Brows Spa news

RETREAT SPA

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JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 59

MIND & BODY

Totally tropical Take a trip around the world, from the comfort of a spa and salon

What? Traditional Turkish Hammam Country of origin? Turkey Where can I try it? Talise Ottoman Spa at Zabeel Saray What does it involve? Talise is no ordinary spa. It is not an awkward space hidden away in the depths of a hotel, or a quiet nook on the 17th floor. Oh no, Talise is a vast palace of cathedral-like calm, dedicated to all things steamy, soapy, wet and soothing – it has ambition, it sets out to wow, to conjure up the magnificence of the Ottoman Empire. And, though it is undeniably verging on the kitsch, it succeeds. Split into male and female sections, Talise is a playground of pampering with saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, outdoor treatment ‘pavilions’, heated stone beds, Thalassotherapy pool and just about anything else you could wish to find at a spa. The treatment list is suitably extensive and varied, but the 45-minute traditional hammam is a must. Laid out on a heated marble slab – with the room entirely to yourself – beneath a brightly decorated, high, domed ceiling your therapist will douse you in warm water before scrubbing every inch of your soaking body with a kese mitt, lathering you in olive oil soap foam and, finally, pouring buckets of cold water over your head to wash it all off and leaving you as clean as anyone has a right to be.

Does it work? This treatment is billed as a prelude to a longer treatment, a massage or whathaveyou, but it’s what Talise is all about and is pleasurable enough to be enjoyed on its own. Make sure you leave plenty of time before, and after, your treatment to enjoy everything Talise has to offer.

Details: Talise Ottoman Spa, Zabeel Saray, The Palm, West Crescent, Dubai, 9am to 9.30pm, Dhs300. Tel: (04) 4530000. www. jumeirahzabeelsaray.com

60 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

NEXT MONTH: TIBET & FRANCE

What? KeraStraight Brazilian Straightening Country of origin? Brazil Where can I try it? Salon Ink What does it involve? Unruly hair is a curse and trying to tame disobedient locks can prove a daily battle. While ceramic straighteners heralded a new, smoother dawn, repeated use can be damaging for the hair, and then there’s the added time factor – which we have precious little of, particularly in the mornings.

However, with KeraStraight Brazilian Straightening our bad hair days may be well and truly numbered. Keratin is a natural compound and a protein that gives hair its strength.

Unlike chemical straightening, KeraStraight repairs rather than damages as it straightens; it can also be used on coloured as well as non-processed hair. What’s more it doesn’t contain chemical nasties (formaldehyde and aldehyde) associated with a lot of straightening treatments.

To start, hair is thoroughly washed before the Keratin is applied, left to develop and then blow-dried and straightened.

While some other processes require you to leave the Keratin in for three days (think hair akin to working in your local chippie for a fortnight) with KeraStraight, the hair is mercifully washed and blow-dried again.

Does it work? KeraStraight sadly doesn’t promise pokerstraight hair, but rather less frizz, less wave, better condition and a straighter appearance that will last up to four months. We left the Salon Ink with high hopes and a glossy straight mane, but of course the real test would be when we blow-dried at home – Nicky Clarke we are not. Happily, our hair was far more manageable, less dry and notably straighter. Result.

Details: Salon Ink, Oud Metha, Dubai, from Dhs800. Tel: (04) 3344002. www.saloninkdubai.com

His ’n‘ hers

MIND & BODY

Our lady and gent give their verdict on The Spa at The Address Dubai Marina

Hers

His BALINESE MASSAGE

RADIANCE FACIAL

TALK US THROUGH IT A mixed bag of techniques are used to get your blood pumping to your muscles and really loosen them up, including stretching (always good) and acupressure – focusing on specific areas and applying pressure with the fingertips.

TALK US THROUGH IT After a chinwag about skin types, the therapist administers a facial massage – to oxygenate the skin – before applying a facemask and leaving it on for ten minutes or so, during which time you will receive a head, neck, arm and hand massage.

HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE PANTS? The beauty of a facial is that you can opt out of the pants, but they looked very nice.

BEST BIT Glycolic acid is used to even your skin tone, which sounds scary, but isn’t. It did the trick, when I touched my face after the treatment it felt like an eightyear-old’s.

SLEEP FACTOR Unlike some facials (bad ones), this one was administered with me lying down. Once the mask was applied and the therapist began the head massage, it was very difficult not to drift off.

AWKWARD MOMENTS If your skincare regime is minimal like mine (soap and warm water) be prepared for a mental tut-tut.

WHO SHOULD GET INVOLVED? If your day-to-day skincare routine needs a wake up call, this is definitely one for you.

BEST BIT My therapist was more inquisitive than most and, discovering that my muscles were extra tight from exercise and slouching in front of a screen all day, applied a Deep Heat-style sports gel. Initiative.

Full marks.

AWKWARD MOMENTS There are too many doors in the changing rooms (two), so be careful if you’re visually challenged – you could end up in an area where you shouldn’t be, wearing less than is polite.

HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE PANTS? Tight and stretchy. They held everything in place without cutting off circulation. Good choice.

HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG? It’s Dhs500 for 50 minutes and Dhs600 for 80 minutes, which is not too bad. Worth the extra Dhs100 for half an hour more, we’d say.

HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG? Dhs475 for 60 minutes. Quite an expensive way to spend an hour, but ultimately worth it.

SLEEP FACTOR Low, you probably won’t doze off – this is a serious treatment.

WHO SHOULD GET INVOLVED? Sporty types and those with very sore muscles.

The Spa, The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4367777. www.theaddress.com JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 61

MIND & BODY

High TESTED voltage Intrigued by the idea of being electrocuted into better shape, What’s On investigates The thought of being wired up to a device and having an electrical current pumped through your body seems more reminiscent of a sci-fi film rather than a health treatment. And after having 16 pads connected to electrodes spread over your body and hooked up to a machine, there is still not much evidence to the contrary. But worry not – for it is not what the treatment looks like, and more about what it does.

Electrotherapy treatment is based on muscle stimulation, and uses a controlled electrical current which is pulsed into your body to cause your muscles to contract and relax – the same thing they would do if you were working out in the gym.

The treatment develops in three stages. The current for the three-minute long first stage is light and constant, as it warms up your muscles and feels like thousands of ants running over your body. The voltage is then upped for the main ‘training’ stage, where the current changes from constant to sharp pulses – forcing your muscles to contract – which takes a few minutes to get used to. Throughout the 25-minute stage your body begins to become used to the current strength and, should you want to, you can have it increased. The final stage might sneak up on you as, without much warning, the pulsing current stops and begins alternating through the pads, helping you stretch out your muscles for ten minutes before it finishes.

The Silkor clinic claims that the 45-minute session is equivalent to spending six hours in the gym. So effectively (although not as rewarding) you can work on building muscle from lying flat on your back reading a book.

As you can choose where to place the pads on your body, the treatment can be localised.

This makes it ideal for stimulating, and getting rid of, deep fat pockets as well as reducing the toxins trapped in the fat that will help get rid of cellulite build-up – which sounds like another piece of science-fiction. Does it work? We didn't notice a perceptible difference after one session, but that would be true for one work-out in the gym, so we'll have to go back for more.

Silkor Villa, 708 Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqueim 2, Dubai, Dhs400. Tel: (04) 3480500 www. silkor.com 62 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Dynamic brows

THE VERDICT

Celebrity-inspired eyebrows?

We’ll have a pair of Spocks, please THE SALES PITCH

If your eyes are the windows to the soul, the eyebrows are the… roof? Curtains?

Regardless, they frame the face and have the power to transform you in seconds, adjusting the structure, making you look younger or, worst case scenario, like an over-plucked chicken. Eyebrows are also one of the quickest ways to make you look groomed and polished, which means that they are best left to the professionals, rather than in your shaky hands with those cheapie tweezers you got in a manicure set from a Christmas cracker.

With this in mind, it was time for a trip to the pros to check out a new treatment

by Dynamic Brows that promises to turn your furry slugs or non-existent brows into enviable face furniture in under an hour.

THE TREATMENT

Therapist Ophelia handed us a book filled with celebrity faces, each categorised into ultra thin, thin, medium and thick. The sizes were, for once, not referring to derrieres, but eyebrow width, with Katie Holmes at the skinny end of the scale and Cindy Crawford deemed broad for the first time in her life. We were advised which size and shape would suit, and opted for Jennifer Lopez’s medium brows, which had a code that corresponded to a stencil in the back of the book. So far, so fun.

“Darling, at first you will hate them. Then in two days they will be perfect,” Ophelia claimed. With a packed weekend ahead, this wasn’t welcome news. While we mentally cancelled plans, she placed the stencil over our existing brows and painstakingly measured angles and distances to make sure everything was symmetrical before tracing J Lo’s shape onto our face. She filled in the outline with a pencil, then waxed and threaded any hairs that were outside the line.

A quick slick of dye to fill in any gaps and then it was a waiting game to see the results.

It wasn’t pretty. Rather that seeing the Latino lovely staring back from the mirror, the reflection bore more resemblance to UK MP

“Darling, at first you will hate them.Then in two days they will be perfect,” therapist Ophelia claimed Alistair Darling, which isn’t every little girl’s dream look. Ophelia was quick to reassure, with some lightening make-up and promises the dye would fade within a few days before sending us on our way.

THE VERDICT

Admittedly, the drive home was somewhat fraught, but by the next morning the look was less dramatic and within 48 hours J Lo’s flaunt-worthy brows had emerged. And enviable they were. The effects last a week before the dye on your skin disappears, while your brows retain the colour for a little longer. Be warned: you soon get used to looking so well groomed, and may find yourself scrutinising your friend’s faces, wondering if they’d suit the Tyra Banks or are more Eva Longoria.

Dynamic Brows, Al Asalla Spa, Dubai Ladies Club, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs195. Tel; (04) 3449445. www.dubailadiesclub.com

MIND & BODY

Spa news The latest openings and biggest beauty bargains HIGH HAIR Brand spanking new, the JetSet Altitude hair salon is the latest concept from trendy pamper brand, JetSet. The chic interior, built to imitate that of a private jet, makes it a stylish way to get your hair done for those big events planned this summer.

JetSet Altitude, Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3300887

PICK OF FOUR Whatever your mood this month, you’ll be able to find a treatment at the Retreat Spa. Its July specials include a slimming down therapy (Dhs890), reflexology (Dhs800), unwinding massages (Dhs550) and a refreshing facial (Dhs500).

Until Aug 31, Retreat Spa, Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3998888. www. grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

SUMMER ESCAPE The Mandara Spa at The Monarch Hotel is promising to make you forget about the heat of the UAE’s toughest months. Its Summer Escape package has an Indonesian influence, including a Javanese lulur body polish and Balinese massage. And all its treatments can be done in a brisk in two hours.

Until Jul 31, Monarch Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs450. Tel: (04) 5018888. www.themonarchdubai.com

TWO GOOD Fancy a two-day all-out pamper fest? We thought so. The Arabian Courtyard Hotel is offering a summer package including a twonight stay (with dinner), two yoga sessions and two detoxing spa treatments.

Too good to miss.

Until Aug 31, Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai, Dhs999. Tel: (04) 3519111. www.arabiancourtyard.com

Food Wednesday is food day Every week in our Arts & Life section, we give you step-by-step guides to create gourmet cuisine from the world’s leading chefs www.thenational.ae

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JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 63

SPORT & OUTDOOR

p66 Swimming p67 Mr Fitness p68 Born to run JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 65

SPORT & OUTDOOR

Swimming

ADAM

Our Abu Dhabi features editor, Adam, has many talents, but swimming isn’t one of them. Finally progressing from an embarrassing doggy paddle, he discovers that swimming lessons aren’t just for kids

Living in a country with so many alluring pools, beaches and watersports means a lack of swimming skills is something of a handicap.

I can just about paddle up and down a small pool once or twice. Chuck me in the sea, however, and I’ll be shark feed, guaranteed. In fact, I’ve rarely taken to the water since nearly drowning during a primary school swimming session. But far beyond being a survival skill, swimming is also among the best total body workouts available. Doubly good reason to don LESSON TWO my swim shorts and goggles, then.

Time to step up a level. I’m told to speed up my front crawl and breathe every four LESSON ONE strokes instead of two. Get the breathing The Grand Millennium’s impressive, and wrong – as I frequently do – and my reward thankfully not too enormous, partly open-air, is a nose or mouth full of water. Then it’s 31st floor pool is a perfect place to learn, as on to backstroke, and although I find not you can build confidence while still touching seeing what’s behind my head more daunting the bottom. A couple of splash-laden front than the front crawl, Youbraj is impressed. crawl widths later and amiable instructor Practicing floating on my back is also part Youbraj has pinpointed weaknesses to be of the lesson, but that’s a rare static moment; worked on. Just about everything. After by the end of the hour I am, to put it politely, patient explanations, I’m soon hitting the cream crackered. My limbs the next morning water little fingers first in diagonal arm let me know they’re not entirely happy with movements with minimum splashing, pulling my new hobby. back for propulsion, my hands brushing my hips, before repeating the process. Breathing LESSON THREE techniques are of paramount importance, First up is some perfunctory breaststroke exhaling through the nose while underwater – coordinating alternating leg and hand then lifting my head sideward just long movements is tricky – before it’s time to put enough to gulp in oxygen. everything I’ve learnt into practise, running

through all three strokes. I still have some trouble perfecting the front crawl breathing, forgetting to keep kicking as I gasp for air. I am, however, already beginning to feel the cardiovascular benefits and my lung capacity swelling slightly, while just about keeping my skinny frame gliding through the water.

VERDICT I’m still rather of the mindset that if humans were meant to swim they would have evolved fins. Yet being talked through the mechanics definitely instils understanding and belief that countless unaccompanied lengths may never achieve. See you down the deep end. Maybe.

Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Abu Dhabi, 7am to 10pm, five lessons Dhs825, ten lessons Dhs1,300, 15 sessions Dhs1,700. Tel: (02) 4439999. www. millenniumhotels.com

How to improve your swimming

MAKE A SPLASH Two more places to win your water wings

Expert Ashley Morris on how to improve your swimming style

Hiltonia Beach Club Private lessons of 45 minutes for up to two people.

Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, 8am to 8pm, one person Dhs220, two people Dhs300. Tel: (02) 6811900. www.hilton.com

L Ninety per cent of adults I’ve taught, from basic swimmers to triathletes, have trouble breathing.

People hold their breath, inhale and exhale when they bring their head out of the water. You should inhale to the side and blow out slowly under water.

L You should have a strong leg kick, and you can practise using a float and just kicking your legs L You should breath every three strokes, naturally alternating the turn of your head L Aim for a six speed leg kick, so six kicks for

66 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

every two arm strokes, so your body position is nice and high and you get more out of your pull L Over and under the water make sure you have a nice high elbow – the elbow should always be the highest point of the stroke L Start with regular short sessions. The most important thing is to hold your technique. So start at 15 minutes three times a week and build it up to 45 minutes. Start with a long, steady warm up, then do intervals at a higher intensity with short rests, and finish up with a kick set, using a float and kicking your legs only.

Hamilton Aquatics, various locations, Dubai, Dhs55 per group session. www.hamiltonaquaticsdubai.com

Shangri-La One-hour private lessons for three people or less, group sessions available for four people or more. Block booking discounts available.

Shangri-La, Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 6am to 11pm, private lessons Dhs95 to Dhs150, group lessons Dhs100. Tel: (02) 5098777. www.shangri-la.com

MR FITNESS are involved. Two of the biggest benefits of swimming are the discipline of controlled breathing and improved lung capacity.

Couple this with the fact that swimming is one of the only forms of exercise where there is no external load on the body, which means that it is gentle on the joints while still providing resistance.

THERT! E EXP

Do you have a fitness question for James?

E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae

In his seven years as a personal trainer, James Houghton has helped everyone from West End actresses to the Arabian Gulf rugby sevens team lose the pounds and keep in shape I am a keen runner, training for the New York Marathon in November, but it’s getting a bit hot outside now. Are there any indoor running tracks in Dubai?

Benjamin, Dubai Marina I’m afraid the short answer is no, but if you’re keen to keep on running outside the coolest times are when you can avoid direct sunlight, early in the morning and later in the evening. But then you also want to consider the humidity and your ability to recover and rehydrate. A little trick is to weigh yourself before you go running and then again after. Take the difference in weight, in pounds, and aim to drink 20 fluid ounces for every pound lost. Bear in mind that one of the body’s core functions

is temperature regulation, maintaining an average 37°C. In higher temperatures, the skin absorbs the heat. In order to help keep the body in a normal state, the heart’s oxygen output is diverted via blood flow to the skin to help dissipate the heat the body is collecting. When oxygen is diverted to another system of the body versus the muscles, a runner has less energy to burn when running. If a runner continues to run at the same pace in these conditions, the heart and lungs have to work hard to try to compensate for the needed oxygen for both systems to work.

This results in early exhaustion.

I am not a particularly good swimmer, but I’ve recently started swimming every morning for 15 minutes. What benefits will this be having?

Melanie, Mirdif Swimming is one of those activities that every child should be taught from a very young age, as it can have profound carryovers into later life, especially if sports

I have an exercise phobia. I know it will make me healthier, but I just don’t have any motivation. Do you have a cure?

Don, Khalidiyah Without threatening you, I don’t have a cure. There are many people like you out there who just have no interest in exercising, and that doesn’t mean that you are wrong. I guess your emotional drivers are not sufficient enough to want to make you exercise. Not

taking away from the benefits of exercise, because there are many, but you can become healthier through lifestyle changes and habits such as keeping your body clear of toxins that are found in many foods these days and by helping your body recover and regenerate each night by making sure that you get enough sleep.

Simple little things can have profound effects. A daily quality broad spectrum multivitamin will also help you cover the bases.

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Cool summer payback Beat the heat with Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi’s cool payback offer!

Get AED 25* worth of dining vouchers for every AED 100 spent at any Crowne Plaza restaurant or bar this summer

crowneplaza.com

For reservations call +971 2 6166 122 f&b@cpabudhabi.ae * Offer valid until 31st October 2011 * Please see back of Payback voucher for terms and conditions

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 67

EXPERT TIPS

SPORT & OUTDOOR

Born to run Features & food editor Gareth Rees, our resident long distance runner, puts the latest running shoes through their paces

Our running guru, The Energy Clinic’s Chris Miller, on what to consider when purchasing a new pair of running shoes L Find out what gait you are – how you run, how your foot looks

when it hits the ground L Make sure you buy a shoe that is fit for purpose. Ask yourself what you are going to

be using the shoes for L If possible, try the shoes out before you commit to purchasing them L Buy the best quality shoes for your budget and, rather than just going to a well

known brand, go to a specialist L Don’t wear your trainers for too long. If you’re doing a lot of mileage, change them

every three to six months

NIKE LUNARECLIPSE+ SAUCONY TRIUMPH 7 REEBOK ZIGTECH The spiel: Nike claims the shoe is appropriate for all gait types, adapting to an individual’s stride, with the design of the sole ensuring your feet feel “connected to the road”. And the shoe can be used with the Nike+ training aid.

How do they look? The handsomest pumps we tested.

You’ll be the envy of all the other runners pounding the pavements.

The 5km test: It took a couple of short runs to wear them in, but after that they were just right – light and flexible but with good support.

Price: Dhs695 Nike, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4341201. www.nike.com Nike, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi.

Tel: (02) 4437396. www.nike.com

The spiel: Saucony knows how important purchasing the right shoe for your foot shape and running style is.

Shock absorption, focused on transferring impact from the heel to the front of the foot, and arch support, are the main selling points.

How do they look? These are serious running shoes, beloved of experienced runners, and the design reflects that fact.

The 5km test: Excellent support, and they put an immediate spring in ones’ step. Having run a marathon in Saucony, I can confirm that they are the real deal.

Price: Dhs490 Saucony, The Dubai Mall, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3398081 Orlando Sports, various locations Abu Dhabi. Tel: (800) 776787

The spiel: Reebok’s ZigTech sole is designed to diminish muscle fatigue and propel you forwards.

How do they look? You will either love them or hate them.

The chunky zigzag sole is, shall we say, distinctive. Certainly not a trainer for the more traditional runner.

The 5km test: The shoe is designed to keep your momentum going forward, and it worked, but the bulk of the trainer makes it rather unwieldy over distance.

Price: Dhs425 Reebok, The Dubai Mall, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4340606. www.reebok. com Al Jimi Mall, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6964444. www.reebok.com

PUMA FAAS 500

The spiel: Designed for “everyday training”, Puma claims that its BioRide Technology makes the shoes more responsive, leading to a more efficient stride.

How do they look? Nice and bright, Puma has clearly considered aesthetic appeal when developing the new Faas range, and the design of the Faas 500 harks back to classic Puma design.

The 5km test: They are lightweight and the sole offers respectable cushioning over 5km, but the Faas 500 probably couldn’t take a marathon.

Price: Dhs500 Puma, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4340204. www.puma.com Puma, Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6448858. www. puma.com

Sports shorts Summer sports worth sweating for ALL YOU CAN GOLF Playing golf in this heat? Madness.

Perhaps, but, if you can bare it, the Arabian Ranches Golf Club is offering you free reign to play as many holes as you like during the week.

Prices range from

68 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Dhs145 for Club Members to Dhs255 for non-members. You might want to leave the ludicrously patterned V-neck at home, though.

Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Emirates Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3663000 www. arabianranchesgolfdubai.com

Club’s 12 + 3 summer deal gives you three months free when you sign up for annual membership. Dhs3,800 for singles and Dhs6,000 per couple.

Shape up, or ship out.

Griffin Health Club, JW Marriott Hotel, Deira, Dubai. Tel: (04) 6077755

GYM’LL FIX IT If you still haven’t written off that new year’s resolution to join a gym (come on, it’s July!), there’s no better time to do it than now. Griffin Health

VIP SPORTS If you’re looking for a way to prevent your brood from becoming stir crazy this summer, gawp no further than the VIP Sports

Academy’s summer camp. Ideal for youngsters aged five to 15, instructors will coach your little darlings in everything from swimming and dodgeball to face painting and team-building exercises. There are even shuttle buses organised, so you don’t need to feel like a taxi service.

Al Wasl Sports Club, Dubai, four weeks Dhs1,650 for your first child.

Tel: (04) 4467400. www.vipeduc.net

MUSIC

EYE Stunning live shows, heavy riffed tunes and an expertly produced album are conspiring to thrust prog rockers EYE (Empty Yard Experiment) into the international spotlight.

The Dubai band has been on the scene for several years, with an evolving line-up which has lead to Bojan, Mehdi, Kaveh, Gorgin, Sain and Sami coming together from as far as Saudi and Serbia. All six members work together in the lyric and music writing, resulting in a diverse soundscape that, within the constraints

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BANTHDE OF TH MON

of one album, ranges from measured to the downright raucous. The contrasting genres and styles somehow work, with soaring methods linking the tracks cohesively.

“Communication is the base of our band and music,” insists Gorgin (keys). “That’s the only way it can work”. Undeniably psychedelic and energetic, we have no doubt EYE’s tracks will be dominating the radiowaves, and your headphones, in the future. www.emptyyardexperiment.com

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Three to see

The pick of local live music this month

Rock beats It’s the age-old question: who rocks harder, rockers or metal-heads?

Well, music fans, you might get your answer this month. Bands from all over the Middle East, including Egypt, Iraq and the UAE, will duke it out for two nights at the RAM Battle. The first night will see rock bands competing against each other in front of a panel of judges – with the winner set to meet the best metal act chosen on the following night. There can only be one winner.

Jul 28 and 29, Cheers Bar, The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, 9pm to 3am, Dhs60. Tel: (050) 9200166. www.metalityuae.com

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Woodstock One of our favourite music venues, The Music Room, is paying tribute to Woodstock this month. The legendary 1969 festival is considered one of the greatest ever musical events, and the Spirit Of Woodstock evening will see five of Dubai's top local bands covering hit songs from the likes of The Who, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. Right on.

Jul 8, The Music Room, Majestic Hotel Tower, Dubai, 6pm to 3am, Dhs50. Tel: (04) 3598888. www. dubaimajestic.com Revolution Junkies Local rock band Revolution Junkies will be joined by the winner of this year's Yas Rock Factory, Danny Shirran, for a one-off gig this month. Catch the band and the Candian-born Shirran at Cheers Bar, before Shirran sets off to perform at Yasalam during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix later this year.

Jul 15, Cheers Bar, The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dhs60. Tel: (050) 9048559 JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 71

CLUB DIARY This month's clubbing highlights

WEEKLY

Freshly Laced @ Casa Latina Weekly dose of all things hip hop and funky with the fresh-as-ever residents.

Ibis Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road, Barsha, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3996699.

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8

WEEKLY

Immaculate Touch @ Al Maya Island The regularly packed-out island all-dayer continues into the summer.

Al Maya Island, Abu Dhabi, noon to late, Dhs100, ladies free until 2pm. Tel: (055) 6506337. www.immaculatetouchabudhabi. com

Essential Mix @ Horizon Lounge Sun-kissed dance floor soundtracks from Da Funct, Nthayi and Charl Chaka, with equally essential air con, barbecue and free pool access (also July 22).

Habtoor Grand, JBR, Dubai, 2pm to 2am, free. Tel: (04) 3995000

Fashion TV International Models Party Get down with the beautiful people, with proceedings broadcast globally on Fashion TV. Étoiles, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, Dhs100, ladies free.

Tel: (02) 6909000. www.etoilesuae.com Nôze @ Ill Communications Hip Parisian pair who have been revitalising house with splinters of electro, techno and warped vocals.

Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.myspace. com/nozecircus

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WEEKLY

Arabesque @ Étoiles DJ Typhoon drops beats from around the Middle East at Étoiles’ new Arabic night, which also features the visual delight of a belly dancer. Étoiles, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6909000. www.etoilesuae.com WEEKLY

Reggae Summer Splash @ Jebel Ali Resort & Spa Don your swimsuit for reggae classics, ragga, dancehall and more from DJ OneJahOh, plus live band Brown Fusion and beach/water sports.

Jebel Ali Resort & Spa, Jebel Ali, Dubai, 3pm to midnight, Dhs75 (includes one drink), ladies free, couples free 3pm to 6pm. Tel: (055) 1839208. www.jebelali-international.com

7

Crystal Waters @ Stereo Sushi

4

Moby @ Dubai World Trade Centre Megastar US DJ/producer makes his longawaited Emirates debut with a full live band in tow.

Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 7pm, Dhs200 to Dhs350. Tel: (04) 3913460. www.moby.com WEEKLY

Terminal @ Chi DJ Bobby Rez pilots you through the latest hits and blasts from the past at Chi's regular cabin crew night.

Chi @ The Lodge, Old Metha Road, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3379470. www. chinightclubdubai.com

6

DJ Rabih @ Yacht Club The Yacht Club’s resident drops the tunes, with a live saxophonist (also July 7).

Yacht Club, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup. com

7

GETTY IMAGE S

Crystal Waters @ Stereo Sushi The Gypsy Woman hitmaker closes Stereo Sushi’s season.

Sanctuary, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free before 11pm.

Tel: (04) 4260561. www.sanctuarydubai.com

4

Moby @ Dubai World Trade Centre

72 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

David Craig @ Relax@12 The UAE spinner digs out the best in house to get the weekend underway in classy fashion.

Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free. Tel: (02) 6545138. www.relaxat12.com Jeremih @ Étoiles 50 Cent and Ludacris-collaborating US R&B star touches down in the UAE. Étoiles, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, Dhs100, ladies free.

Tel: (02 6909000). www.jeremih.com

Cooly G @ Ill Communications The leading lady of UK funky, and one of the stars of London dubstep-and-beyond label Hyperdub, flies in to town.

Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.myspace. com/coolyg

14

Girls Love DJs @ The 400 Nightclub The Dutch DJ brand takes over Dubai for its fortnightly blowout (also July 28).

The 400 Nightclub, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3324900. www.the400nightclub.com

15 Ray Fox @ Armani Privé Rising Dutch DJ Ray Fox has been racking up download hits almost as fast as touring air miles with his energetic brand of electro-kissed house. And he promises exclusive tunes when he hits Dubai for the first time this month…

You were given your first turntables when you were 12. You must have been into music from a very young age?

I was always interested in music, this started with Michael Jackson and from then I followed every trend.

When I was 12 I was spending my pocket money on vinyl, a lot of house heritage already at my young age.

Why did you pick the moniker Ray Fox? My real name is Raymon Vos. Vos is Dutch for ‘fox’ in English. Simple as ABC. Have you met any of your famous namesakes? Megan Fox? Michael J Fox? I’d really like to be friends with Megan Fox. So if she reads this: Megan could you please come to Armani, July 15!

You’re playing at Armani Privé in Dubai. Do you wear designer labels?

Yes, I like designer clothes. In fact I wear them a lot. When I find the time after playing Armani I will definitely check out what Dubai has to offer.

One of your biggest tracks is entitled F**k That. Will you play it safe with a censored version in Dubai?

I always play for the audience, so if it's possible to play it then you'll hear that one. But of course I will make sure not to offend anybody.

Holland and Dubai have rather contrasting cultures. What are you expecting?

I don’t know, but I have heard many great things about clubbing in Dubai.

I will put out some exclusive previews especially for Dubai. All Dubai people: please let me know which tracks will make your night and I will try to make some special bootlegs. My last three bootleg packs got downloaded over 200,000 times, so it would be good to have some Dubai influences in the next one.

Armani Privé, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free.

Tel: (04) 8883888. www.rayfox.nl

CLUB DIARY

15 Roberto Mermand @ Amnesia Having taken cutting edge house beats and his eyecatching electric violin accompaniment around the world this year, multitalented DJ Roberto Mermand is back in his home base for Amnesia. Popular resident Stew Magoo also takes to the decks in support

electronic music began. It does give the show an extra element of entertainment because the violin is live and I am able to improvise, which gives a fresh and exciting feeling to the music.

Do you still have to put in the hours practicing violin even to this day?

Like anything, practice makes perfect.

It took time, energy and dedication to perfect my instrument. I still put hours in to maintain the skills and be able to improvise to the music I play live. I also play the piano for production purposes and Spanish guitar when putting down chords and melodies for new tracks that I produce. It’s fun and exciting.

What are you doing during Ramadan?

Sitting tight, touring the world or taking a holiday?

I will be away playing in London over

How did you first hit upon the idea of combining electric violin skills with DJing?

I was classically trained on the violin since the age of ten. I started to combine it with house music in the late 1990s, where my love for

22

Stay With Me @ Armani Privé Monthly instalment of future and upfront beats in lofty surrounds.

Armani Privé, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 8883888. dubai.armanihotels.com Sascha Drive @ Ill Communications Detroit-influenced dance-floor science from German DJ/producer, who runs the Deep Vibes label.

Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.saschadive.de

7

Jeremih @ Étoiles DJ Jeff @ Yacht Club Thursday night disco-house delights, with added dancers.

Yacht Club, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am, free.

Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com

15

Frozen @ Allure A winter wonderland at the height of summer, with nitro cannons, ice cocktails and more.

Allure by Cipriani, Yas Island Yacht Club, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6575400. www.nightcluballure.com Peevee @ Ill Communications Friday night goes off with urban sounds from Peevee.

Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277

20

Mega Weekend @ Yacht Club Resident DJ Rabih and dancers jumpstart the weekend before it’s barely started (also July 21).

Yacht Club, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am, free.

Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com

27

Nu-Disquo @ Republique Indie-electro from DJ Ridz at this monthly ladies night, with free bubbly for the lasses.

The Address, Dubai Mall, Dubai, 8pm to 3am, free. Tel: (050) 4880876. www. clubrepublique.com

28

Closing White Party @ Allure Allure closes its season before Ramadan in blinding white and UV light-bathed style.

Allure by Cipriani, Yas Island Yacht Club, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6575400. www.nightcluballure.com

29

Loaded @ Casa Latina Indie, pop and rock gems from the See You Next Friday conspirators.

Ibis Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (055) 8825675. www.facebook.com/ seeyounextfriday Art Department @ Ill Communications Kenny Glasgow, from critically acclaimed Canadian techno/house project Art Department.

Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.facebook. com/artdepartmentmusic

Ramadan and I’ll also be visiting Ibiza and Mykonos.

What’s been your favourite show in your globetrotting 2011 so far?

Supperclub in London was the most energetic crowd: 700 people bounced off my energy and created an amazing vibe and atmosphere. It’s also very nice to come back to the home crowds in the UAE where they love the music I play and know what to expect.

Relax@12 is high up with my favourite places in the UAE, for the view from the DJ booth and the cool crowd.

Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free (Dhs130 for unlimited house beverages 8pm to midnight). Tel: (02) 6545138. www.robertomermand.com

1 Rewind @ Catwalk Club WEEKLY

Roller-skating king of cheese Tim Cheddar – Tim Derry to his postman – has been slicing up Dubai’s disco fromage for more years than he’d care to admit, playing everywhere from Malecon, to Chi to Nasimi Beach, before hanging up his skates for a brief hiatus to concentrate on the promotion side of the nightlife industry. However, for one month only, he is back, every Friday in July, with his pop up retro night, Rewind Cheddar! You’re back! But why just for one month?

A few pals persuaded me to come out of hibernation. I thought why not, and gave myself a month of Fridays to see if people still have the appetite for Cheese, even though this is more of a mini Cheddar than a fully-fledged fromage frenzy.

OK, so, Rewind – tell us more.

It’s called Rewind because it allows me to play songs from the past, whether it’s the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s or beyond – I want to play songs that everyone knows and loves.

What’s the difference between this and your Cheese nights?

I wanted to broaden my music policy.

I'm known for my cheese nights and they are good fun – and I will still throw in some Michael Jackson, Jamiroquai and Journey – but I like the freedom of being able to drop some classic tracks, like some Stone Roses or Paul Weller, in there.

We see you're letting people in fancy dress in for free. You love all that, don't you?

What can I say? I don‘t take myself too seriously and neither should the crowd. Go in day-glo and brighten the place up. Let’s go retro!

What about Cheese – will we see it again?

You cheddar believe it! I’ve just got to find the right venue. Any savoury suggestions?

And finally – you're one of the guys behind the huge Sandance nights.

Are you going to let us in on who's booked for the next one?

If I told you, I’d have to kill you, then who’d make sure this interview was printed? All will be revealed very soon...

Golden Tulip Hotel, Al Barsha, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100, free before 11pm, women free before midnight, fancy dress free all night. Tel: (04) 3417750. www.catwalkdubai.com

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 73

TRAVEL

Reading between the lines

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY GERMAN NATIONAL TOURIST OFFICE

For bookworms, the German city of Frankfurt is the only place to be this October

In the Middle Ages, fat-bellied traders rolled books into Frankfurt in barrels, displaying them on street stalls in the city's first literary marketplace. Five hundred years on, streets stalls have turned into 7,000 exhibition stands, and booksellers and writers from 100 countries arrive to promote their wares to some 300,000 visitors and journalists.

Held in mid-October, the Frankfurt Book Fair is the most important annual event for the international book trade: a place to network and do publishing deals, while a swarm of publishers, book agents, translators, multimedia buyers and film producers hunt for the latest in literature There is no better time for bookworms to head to Frankfurt, whose literary, cultural and other charms have moved it well beyond its once staid reputation for banks, big business and an enormous airport. This has become Germany's latest cool destination, with sassy up-market dining and hedonistic nightclubbing, from a thumping techno scene to nifty jazz bars and backslapping cider taverns.

Of course, a late-night techno rave mightn't be a cultural form appreciated by booklovers.

Perhaps there's enough buzz from a visit to the Book Fair on open days, when the public gets a chance to browse and meet their favourite authors. You might also want to visit the historic Paulskirche, the church where the modern fair was relaunched after the Second World War. It still hosts its most significant event, the ceremony for the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, whose previous winners include renowned writers Orhan Pamuk, Susan Sontag, Chinua Achebe and Václav Havel.

The Book Fair isn't the only literary distinction for Frankfurt, however. In 1749, the birth of a little boy called Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in a middle-class familu in the old town gave the city another enduring claim to

LONG HAUL

The Ignatz-Bubis Bridge over the River Main at Frankfurt

The historic Paulskirche, which hosts one of the Frankfurt Book Fair's leading events

“FRANKFURT IS GERMANY’S LATEST COOL DESTINATION, WITH UP-MARKET DINING,HEDONISTIC NIGHTCLUBBING, A THUMPING TECHNO SCENE, JAZZ BARS AND TAVERNS” JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 75

TRAVEL | FRANKFURT

Visitors in Hall 3 of the Frankfurt Book Fair

literary fame. In the writing room on the third floor, literary pilgrims admire the desk where Goethe wrote The Sorrows Of Young Werther and the first manuscript of Faust, which turned him into a giant of European literature.

Goethe apart, the house is worth visiting just for the insight it gives into middle-class life in 18th-century Frankfurt, with rooms furnished in the styles of the time from sedate neoclassical to baroque and later, rather dizzying, rococo.

You could do worse than leap from the pages into some other arts while in Frankfurt, since its riverside arts precinct shows what can happen when a city devotes ten per cent of its budget to culture. Here, some of the best museums in Europe showcase everything from film history to architecture, Impressionism to ancient civilisations. The Deutsches Filmmuseum is particularly fascinating – you can see how the special effects in the original King Kong movie were achieved – while the Liebieghaus features sculptures spanning 5,000 years. From Sumerian statuettes to Egyptian funerary reliefs and medieval Madonnas, every piece is little short of perfection.

The River Main that flows past these museums also leads booklovers to more literary discoveries. Out on the riverbanks lies Gerbermühle, where Goethe stayed for a month in 1815 while in his 60s, falling in love with a young woman named Marianne von Willemer and immortalising her in poetry. Now you can sit under the chestnut trees and contemplate Frankfurt's skyscrapers as swans paddle about.

As you meander upriver, the city gives way to farmland and medieval villages before the Main joins the mighty Rhine some 40km away.

This strategic trading location is presided over by the town of Mainz, a perfect literary day 76 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

Statue of Gutenberg near the Romanesque cathedral in Mainz

BOOKED UP Cafés along the banks of the river Main in Frankfurt, with Main Tower and Commerzbank Tower in the background

trip from Frankfurt. It was in Mainz in 1456 that Johannes Gutenberg built the first printing machine using moveable type, revolutionising written communication.

At the Gutenberg Museum, staff demonstrate type founding, typesetting and printing on a recreated Gutenberg press. When the quality of the printed page is revealed, audiences gasp in surprise. But the highlight is two original Gutenberg Bibles, multi-milliondollar treasures of printing to which have been added beautiful hand-drawn illuminations in marvellous colours.

Afterwards, you could do worse than lose yourself among the alleyways of Mainz's old town, where a fairytale of half-timbered buildings huddle around a vast Romanesque cathedral. Old men mumble on riverside promenades and schoolkids scuffle as they wait for trams. With books tucked under their arms, they're a living reminder of this region's literary heritage, and the continuing power of the printed word.

Other major book fairs include Abu Dhabi International Book Fair and Bologna Book Fair in March, London Book Fair and Buenos Aires International Book Fair in April, New York-based Book Expo America (June), Tokyo International Book Fair (July) and Beijing International Book Fair in September.

NEED TO KNOW GETTING THERE

Emirates flies direct Dubai to Frankfurt. www.emirates.com

WHERE TO STAY

Mövenpick Hotel Frankfurt City. www.moevenpick-hotels.com or Hilton Frankfurt Hotel www1.hilton.com

MORE INFORMATION

Tourismus + Congress Frankfurt. www.frankfurt-tourismus.de, Frankfurt Book Fair. www.frankfurt-book-fair.com

TRAVEL | TRAVELS WITH...

Travels with…

TRAVEL EXTRA

Arne Silvis

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa’s general manager Arne Silvis lives for the outdoors. The Cape Town native’s CV has seen him work as a guide through white water rapids, luxury mobile safaris and game reserves

of active volcanoes. Three weeks passed in one big blur of utter amazement.

What has been your biggest travel disaster?

Everyone has missed flights, trains and other forms of transport at some point on their travels, but I don’t really view these negatively – these things happen. My attitude is what ultimately determines whether an event or incident was disastrous or not. Whenever I am met with some bad news, I remain optimistic, keep myself entertained and simply make alternative plans.

If you could advise people to visit one destination what would it be?

New Zealand’s South Island. What a spectacular part of the world. The scenery is absolutely picture perfect, most of the wilderness areas are completely unspoilt and untouched, it is easy to get around, exceptionally safe, and there is plenty to do in the line of adventure.

What’s the best holiday you have ever had?

I am lucky to have travelled to more than 50 countries, but I think Costa Rica just about takes the prize. There are so many things to do, river rafting, mountain climbing, forest canopy tours, horse riding in the jungles or simply enjoying the hot springs in the foothills

Take a bargain break MALAYSIAN VACATION Considering its postcard beaches, untouched rainforest and year-round perfect weather, it is amazing that Malaysia’s Langkawi islands are still considered an insider secret. Book now and get a four-night stay with breakfast at the Datai Langkawi resort, flights and transfers for a tidy Dhs6,476 per person.

Until Aug 31, Emirates Holidays, Dubai, from Dhs6,476. Tel: 8005252. www.emiratesholidays.com

What are your top tips for surviving a long airport stopover?

Patience is key. Being able to shut off from the world around you, and with iPad and Kindles there is absolutely no reason to be bored.

I also recommend storing luggage at the airport and exploring whatever lies outside.

And don’t forget to travel with comfortable shoes and clothing.

What do you never travel without?

The nature of a particular vacation determines what goes along or what stays behind. But the essentials for any trip regardless are comprehensive travel insurance, hardcopies of all travel documents, and also an extra passport copy stowed in a safe place. I never travel without enough cash in small denominations; it always comes in handy.

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai. Tel: (04) 8329900. www.al-maha.com

“I never travel without enough cash in small denominations; it always comes in handy”

PEACEFUL PHUKET Phuket boasts glorious beaches, welcoming locals and great cuisine, but it’s also extremely popular, drawing hordes of tourists all year round. Fortunately, the luxury secluded location of the Trisara resort on the quiet north-western coastline allows you to escape the crowds and, even better, is offering four nights for the price of three, including massages and breakfast for just Dhs3,965 per person. Bliss.

Until Oct 31, Dnata Travel, Dubai, from Dhs3,965. Tel: 8008118. www.dnataholidays. com

CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE You’re a fan of the freebie, right? Well then. be prepared to fill your boots at Anantara’s Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort this summer.

The Abu Dhabi luxury resort is offering ‘complimentary credit’ for every night booked, which you can use to purchase food, spa treatments, camel trekking, kayaking near Sir Bani Yas island and all manner of other goods and services.

Until Aug 31, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Abu Dhabi, from Dhs1,100 per person per night. Tel: (02) 8862088. www. qasralsarab.anantara.com JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 77

Win with What’s On WIN! A BLACKBERRY PLAYBOOK Apple-lovers beware, there’s a new tablet on the block. The 64GB BlackBerry PlayBook has a 7” screen, is packed with features (including a camera), supports apps, has a USB port and is, all in all, an absolute pleasure to use. What’s On has teamed up with regional online retailer Aido.com to give away a PlayBook to one lucky reader. For your chance to win a slice of cutting edge gadgetry, simply tell us…

What does AIDO stand for? a) All I Do Online b) Any Intelligent Dudes Online? c) All I Do Offside

R NS, NTE TO E PETITIO E M O AIL IVATE.A SE C E-M THE IMPLY @MOT , S SON NSWER THE HAT HW YOUR A PRIZE IN T I W F H WIN WIT AME O LINE HE N BJECT T D SU AN

WIN! A STAY FOR TWO AT THE TILAL LIWA HOTEL

Situated on the edge of the vast Rub Al Khali desert, the Tilal Liwa Hotel makes for a majestic hideaway, complete with stunning views. We have teamed up with the resort to offer one lucky winner a night’s stay for two people in a deluxe room, including breakfast and access to the impressive facilities. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or exploring the desert with a 4x4 safari, this trip guarantees an unforgettable weekend away from the bright city lights.

For your chance to win, simply tell us…

What is the Rub Al Khali desert also know as? a) The empty half b) The empty quarter c) The empty whole

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 79

Ramadan Nights at Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island Meet with family and friends in the Radisson Blu Ramadan Tent where you can sample a special Sohour menu and enjoy a wide choice of shisha. Relax while an oud player entertains with traditional music or you catch up with the day by XEOMRK EHZERXEKI SJ JVII ;M ½

Assymetri Iftar Buffet Enjoy an extensive buffet of traditional Arabic and international dishes, along with a selection of Ramadan juices for only AED 99* per person.

Corporate Iftar Events A feast of Arabic and international cuisine and juices, including telecast of the Iftar program, starting from only AED 125*.

SPECIAL OFFER: Book before the end of July and take advantage of a 15% discount! *Subject to 16% service and tourism charges.

Radisson Blu Blu Hotel, Hotel,Abu AbuDhabi DhabiYas YasIsland Island Radisson Yas Plaza, Plaza,Yas Yas Island, Island,P.O. P.O.Box Box93725 93725 Yas Abu Dhabi, Dhabi,United UnitedArab ArabEmirates Emirates Abu info.abudhabi@radissonblu.com info.abudhabi@radissonblu.com radissonblu.com/hotel-abudhabi radissonblu.com/hotel-abudhabi

02 656 2000 radissonblu.com

THE HOTLIST Key New entry Non-mover Up

p83 p87 p91 p95

Bars Restaurants Brunches Spas JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 81

ROYAL CHINA

Down

READY SET

STRATEGISE!

STOP DREAMING ABOUT MAKING A DIFFERENCE AND START BELIEVING. WHAT COULD USD10,000 DO FOR YOUR AMBITION?

TO ENTER VISIT

WWW.EMIRATESWOMANAWARDS.COM www.adcb.com | www.insead.edu |

www.facebook.com/emirateswomanmagazine

Nominations for the ADCB Ambition Award are now open. To enter, simply log in to www.emirateswomanawards.com and tell us (in 500 words or less) your greatest entrepreneurial or community improvement ambition and what you are doing to achieve it. The winner will receive USD10,000, a place on an INSEAD Key Management Challenge course part of INSEADâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Global Executive MBA at Abu Dhabi campus and AED2,000 worth of shopping vouchers to spend in BurJuman Mall, Dubai. Nominations close on the 15th August 2011. For terms and conditions, visit emirateswomanawards.com.

THE HOT LIST

THE FINEST FOR BEVERAGES AND BITES

BARS

Caramel

ATMOSPHERE

1 Zuma

2 Loca

3

XL Beach Club

4

Caramel

5

McGettigan’s

LOCATION

Jetty Lounge

BEST FOR

PRICE

Zuma

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

Seriously slick, with that ellusive 'city' quality. Glass, dark woods and a lounge full of lowslung sofas.

The beating heart of DIFC, Zuma is a flash of personality in this concrete jungle.

Zuma’s bar may be a lounge, but it’s far from casual, so don your finest threads or feel foolish.

It ain't cheap, but if you pay peanuts you get monkeys.

Which is our way of saying that it's worth the extra dirhams.

DJ Adrien has quite the fan club, and it's easy to see (and hear) why.

Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, Fri to Wed noon to 2am, Thurs noon to 3am. Tel: (04) 4255660. www.zumarestaurant. com

Ideal for low profile mid-week drinks, and uptempo fun come Thursday night.

The resort is a lone wolf at this end of Beach Road, but Boudoir, Sho Cho and Malecon are close to Loca for further partying.

Casual get togethers at a table with your very own beer tap. Hasslefree rounds. The Mexican-style bar food is also a treat.

Average prices, but check out the Monday night offer with ribs and a pint for Dhs65.

Decent tunes, an urban design and the laid-back crowd make for good times.

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 3461111. www. dxbmarine.com

Banging. Private glass-fronted plunge pools, cabanas with their own music, VIPs galore and a crazy crowd.

It's an open-air beach bar, but with plunge pools and new roof you'll be able to enjoy XL all summer long.

Mingling with models (Fashion TV is there some Fridays) and hearing good tunes.

Wednesdays see DJ Kristian Valdini take to the decks.

Best to club in with your mates and get a table – it will work out about the same as trips to the bar and looks more impressive.

Great for afterwork drinks, Caramel is buzzing throughout the week, but a bit quieter on Fridays when DIFCdwellers stay away from their offices.

Avoid the outdoors and stick with the slick, dark interior where there's truffle oil in the air and drinks flowing.

The menu is fantastic, so book a table and turn drinks into dinner.

Definitely on the pricey side, especially the food, but drinks are fairly standard for this part of town.

There are some top bar snacks, with lollipop chicken and mini lobster tacos on the menu.

Building 3, DIFC, Dubai, 11am to 2am. Tel: (04) 4256677. www. carameldubai.com

Packed, both midweek and come the weekend, with a fun-loving expat crowd.

At the moment, this is JLT's only watering hole (hence the crowds).

Rowdy fun and a good Irish fry-up.

Our advice? Have rowdy fun, then go back for breakfast the next morning.

Very decent indeed, and there's a well-priced Friday brunch (Dhs99 for a main meal and three drinks).

The log-lined walls and forest photography raise the bar for pub decor.

Thumbs up.

McGettigan's, The Bonnington, JLT, Dubai, 12.30pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3560600. www. mcgettigansdubai. com

, The massive

tent is tricked out with enough AC to keep penguins comfortable.

Habtoor Grand, Dubai Marina, Dubai, noon to 3am. Tel: (056) 6406161. www. grandjumeirah. habtoorhotels.com

NOVEMBER JULY 2011 2010 WHAT’S WHAT’SON ON 83

BARS

HOT ON THE HesEsEDLubSai Marina

e Addr 11 Blends, Th i Grill, Al Manzil Hotel ss 12 Nezesau Address Downtown e 13 Neos, Th Dubai Mall i Hotel rive, Arman 14 Armani/P , The Westin 15 Senyar

The Gramercy

ATMOSPHERE

6 Oeno

7

The Gramercy

8

Belgian Beer Café

9

West Beach Bistro & Sports Lounge

10 Jetty Lounge

LOCATION

12 NEZESAUSSI GRILL

Blends

BEST FOR

Nezesaussi Grill is a sporty sanctuary, boasting big screens and big portions. The walls might be lined with memorabilia, but Nezesaussi has pleny to appeal to the sport averse, too. It’s a grown-up spot with good service and a first-rate pub menu.

Al Manzil Hotel, Old Town, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 6pm to 2am, Fri and Sat noon to2am.

Tel: (04) 4285888. www.southernsunme.com

PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

You can't get moved in here on ladies' night (Tuesday), but it's more civilised later in the week.

The Westin, so there's Senyar across the lobby if you want to mix it up a bit.

The ladies' night is epic, with a choice of drinks on offer for the fairer sex, and a choice of ladies on offer for the chaps.

Oeno's wine list is impressive, with some very pricey numbers on there, but there are some decent bottles for a decent price, too.

Beware the glass staircase if you're in heels: we've witnessed some spectacular tumbles.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 6pm to 2am, Fri 4pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 3994141. www. starwoodhotels.com

The Gramercy has shrugged off its sports bar image, and is now more NYC bar, with a French twist. Live music nights keep it bustling.

At the heart of DIFC, it's busy with business lunches, post-work drinks and late Thursday night conflabs.

Expect people to be suited and booted.

The quality bar food sets it apart from the slew of other bars. And it has a great independent feel, too.

Not cheap, but the ingredients are of a high quality, food portions are massive and the bar service is speedy.

Check out the new jazzthemed a la carte Friday brunch for a top, tuneful feed.

Unit 7, Level 2, Building 3, DIFC, noon to midnight. Tel: (04) 4377511. www. thegramercybar.com

It's too sticky for the terrace now, so retire to the wooden pews and bustling bar inside. We love the Victorian tiles, vintage signage and European feel.

Don’t dismiss Festival Centre as the land of IKEA, the BBC is king of a huge swathe of new bars and restaurants in this part of town.

If you’re in the mood for some European charm, this is the only pub to go to.

There’s a Monday night all you can eat moules and beer affair for Dhs199.

Bargain Belgian.

A cracking brunch, decent deals and a spectacular drinks list mean we’re regulars.

Crowne Plaza Festival City, Dubai, Sun to Mon 6pm to 2am, Tue to Wed noon to 2am, Thurs and Fri noon to 3am. Tel: (04) 7012222. www.ichotelsgroup. com

If there's a big match or sports event on the big screen, then you can expect every booth and bar stool to be taken.

Right on The Walk, this new addition is giving the sports fans of JBR what they want.

Even if your team of choice isn't in action, the pool table and sticky ribs are reason enough to pay West Beach a visit. Excellent onion rings, too.

Fair, and there's a mid-week happy hour from 6pm to 9pm where selected drinks are half price. Score.

Sorry.

There's a new Friday brunch that includes a bucket of beers for Dhs199.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun to Wed 6pm to 2am, Thurs to Sat noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 4498888

The beachside cabanas are out of action, but inside is still attracting a cool crowd with its white decor and blue neon.

Check out the sea views; Jetty Lounge is right on the sands at the original One&Only.

Chilled out drinks, sophisticated sundowners and incredibly tasty tapas.

The cocktails are pricey, but worth it.

All in all, this place isn't cheap but it's so high quality you won't begrudge the bill.

Watch it shoot back up the hot list when the weather cools down. We can't resist those cabanas.

One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 2pm to late. Tel: 904) 399999

84 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

THE HOT LIST

THE ELITE OF THE EATING OUT SCENE

RESTAURANTS

La Petite Maison

ATMOSPHERE

1 The Ivy

2

La Petite Maison

3 Zuma

4

Indego by Vineet

5 Verre

INTERIOR

FOOD

MARCH 2010 WHAT’S ON 87 Rivington Grill LOCATION

PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

Securing a booking might be a problem – The Ivy is the talk of the town after its longawaited June opening.

A beautiful restaurant. The designers have done wonders, creating an environment that allows you to forget you're in a mall.

See our verdict on page 34.

With the arrival of The Ivy, and Hakkasan opening in November, Emirates Towers is squaring up to restaurant hub DIFC.

We managed to enjoy three courses for around Dhs550 (sans booze), but you could certainly spend more.

It's on every foodie's lips this month. If you're going to visit one restaurant in July, make it The Ivy.

Always busy. The Ivy might be the new kid on the block, but LPM has lost none of its lustre. All serious food lovers will book a table at both.

With plenty of natural light and a cream colour scheme, it's ideal for a long summer lunch.

We enjoyed some incredible lamb last time we dined at LMP. Also try the superb lobster and the lovely salt cod croquettes.

DIFC. Which, boasting two of our top three restaurants, remains the beating heart of the Dubai dining scene, for now.

If you're not prepared to drop more than Dhs1,000 on a proper meal for two, LPM isn't for you.

Falling to second is no reflection on LPM's star status.

DIFC, Gate Village 8, Dubai, Sun to Fri noon to 2.30pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4390505. www. lpmdubai.ae

Still as popular as ever, Zuma is never likely to be lacking custom. The upstairs bar is perfect for a chilled tipple or two.

Sleek, bright and contemporary.

It's one of the more inspiring restaurant spaces in Dubai.

It's rare that Zuma makes a mistake. Order the wagyu tenderloin from the robata grill menu or the delicious veal.

Less than 100 metres from LPM, within walking distance of The Ivy. It can only be one place – DIFC.

Spending less than Dhs1,000 for two is not really an option, unless you're not really hungry.

Competition is tough from the likes of Okku and Nobu, but Zuma is still the best Japanese in this town.

Building 6, DIFC, Sat to Thurs 12.30pm to 3pm, Sat to Wed 7pm to midnight, Thurs and Fri 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 4255660. www. zumarestaurant. com

It's fine dining with a friendly face. Indego has none of the usual stuffiness associated with high end eating.

A winding stairway leading to a warm and welcoming restaurant.

Too hot for the terrace, unfortuantely.

Indego serves the best Indian food in Dubai.

And we're happy to go fork to fork with anyone who says otherwise.

In the heart of Dubai Marina, Vineet Bhatia's place is certainly at the right end of town.

After you've eaten chef John Sinjobi's food the Dhs900 (without alcohol) bill won't bother you in the slightest.

If you want to eat Indian – eat Indego by Vineet.

Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3176000. www. grosvenorhousedubai.com

Verre sometimes lacks a buzz due to its silly location, but it's still on every foodie's favourites list.

The chefs table and the semi open (it's visible through a glass door) kitchen have improved what isn't an ideal space.

The spring/ summer menu from one of the most talented kitchens in town is spot on. Order the paprika smoked salmon.

Gordon. Are you listening?

Move Verre out of Deira and head for the bright lights just up SZR. Now, please.

Dhs395 for three courses, Dhs495 for six courses.

For the chef’s table it’s Dhs695, with wine pairings Dhs350 to Dhs600.

If you've never been to Verre, now is the time to sample chef Scott Price's team at their very best.

Hilton Dubai Creek, Sun to Fri, 7pm to 11.30pm.

Tel: (04) 2277550. www. gordonramsay. com

The Ivy, The Boulevard, Emirates Towers, Dubai, noon to 3pm, 6.30pm to 11pm, bar to 2am. Tel: (04) 3198767. www. theivy.ae

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 87

RESTAURANTS

HOT ON EELS THE H Desert Palm

ien 11Rare, Royal Mérid Twenty10, Le Spa es od Rh 12 & rt so Re h Beac s Towers om, Emirate 13 The Rib Ro The Monarch u, 14 Okk beel Saray 15 Amala, Za

Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire

PRICE ATMOSPHERE WHAT’S INTERIOR ON SAYS...

6

Rivington Grill

7

Rhodes Mezzanine

8

Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire

9 Traiteur

10 Asado

The Rib room

INFO FOOD

LOCATION

13 THE RIB ROOM The Rib Room Reopened just a couple of months ago after renovation, The Rib Room is a solid, reliable steakhouse and stands out in a town overun with purveyors of animal flesh. Order the steak tartar, prepared to your liking tableside, before tucking in to a giant rib wearing one of the restaurant’s fetching rib bibs.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Hotel Tower, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 12.30pm to 2.30pm, daily 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3198088. www.jumeirah.com PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

With the terrace off limits due to the heat, all of RG's loyal diners have to fight it out for tables indoors. Book ahead.

Clean, bright and white, with chalkboards displaying the delicious daily specials and a buzzing open kitchen.

The Riv is embracing summer with some lighter dishes. Try the heritage tomato bruschetta and crab salad.

RG put Old Town on the culinary map.

Now The Ivy is open, look out for new branches coming soon.

Around Dhs400 for two, but on weekdays you can enjoy two courses at lunchtime for Dhs80, or three for Dhs100.

The Ivy has arrived, but we still love its little brother.

Souk Al Bahar, Level 3, Old Town, Dubai, noon to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4230903. www. rivingtongrill.ae

Gary's original Dubai outpost has many, many fans. If you're thinking of a Thursday or Friday evening visit, book ahead.

It’s very, very white, but the extremely comfortable chairs add a touch of colour here and there and there’s a tiny glimpse of the kitchen.

Chef Paul Lupton is a quiet but exceedinly talented man.

Order the seared tempura scallops.

Dubai Marina, or the Gary Rhodes Marina as it will have to be renamed if he opens any more restaurants in the vicinity.

Dhs800 for two.

Not at all bad.

If you're a fan of Gary Rhodes, you'll be a fan of Rhodes Mezzanine.

Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Mon to Sat 7pm to 11.30pm.

Tel: (04) 3998888. www. garyrhodes. com

Diners will be well dressed, well mannered and well prepared for a sprecial meal. Maitre d' Dennis brings a friendly feel to proceedings.

Tucked away on its own floor, Reflets' design is almost regal.

And maybe a little bit camp.

Challenging food from an always inventive kitchen that has learned well from master Michelin starred chef Pierre Gagnaire.

Reflets has its own private elevator at the the InterCon DFC– an area vying to be a culinary hot spot.

You're talking well over Dhs1,000 for dinner. But the taster menu is Dhs550, and the business lunch is a bargain at Dhs180.

A long lunch during the week is a must during the lazy summer months.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 7011128. www. ichotelsgroup. com

The outside seating and the nearby bar, The Terrace, are no-nos during the summer, but we're confident Traiteur will remain busy.

The vaulted ceiling and the open kitchen make Traiteur one of the most memorable restaurants in town.

Try the sea bass with asparagus, green peas and glazed morels.

Park Hyatt. A true destination hotel with endless appeal. See our verdict on the afternoon tea in Eating Out (p38).

The degustation menu is Dhs375 for four courses and coffee. For a la carte you’re talking around Dhs650 for two.

Chef Franck Detrait imparts his local knowledge in Salaam this month. Check it out (p8).

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3172222. www.dubai. park.hyatt.com

For the real Argentinean spirit, book a table on Sunday – tango night.

There's a superb view of the Burj through the window if you pick the right table.

For meat eaters only. Try the lamb rack or slow-cooked veal brisket.

Downtown Burj Khalifa, and you could hit the Burj with a firmly thrown steak.

Around Dhs700 for two.

It's the closest your going to get to Argentina without enduring a long flight.

The Palace – The Old Town, Downtown Dubai, 7pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 4287888. www. theaddress.com

88 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

PERFECT SUMMER GETAWAY Experience the true Arabian desert and explore the unspoiled landscape of the majestic Rub Al Khali Desert. Enjoy a thrilling desert safari adventure, dune bashing or visit a camel farm, heritage forts and date plantations.

Built in traditional style, the hotel is a retreat for those seeking a unique desert experience and the true spirit of Arabia.

Everyday stopovers Dhs. 499* for a desert view room including buffet breakfast, a visit to a traditional camel farm and race track, one hour bicycle ride, kite ďŹ&#x201A;ying, free access to steam and sauna, and 15% discount on food, soft drinks and laundry.

*Rate is subject to 10% service charge & 6% tourism fee. Double or Single Occupancy. Valid for UAE/GCC residents only from 1 June until the end of August 2011.

2 children below 12 years can share parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room at no charge. Children between 6-12 years have 50% discount on meals. Payment by credit card or cash only.

Rooms are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a Division of National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels PO Box 112723, Abu Dhabi, UAE | T. +971 2 894 6111 | F. +971 2 894 6112 | reservations.tilal@danathotels.com | www.danathotels.com

THE HOT LIST BRUNCHES

OUR PICK OF THE BRUNCH BUNCH

Al Qasr

1 Al Qasr

2 Traiteur

3 Zuma

4

The Talk

5

Armani/Hashi

Armani/Hashi

ATMOSPHERE

FOOD

LOCATION

BEST FOR

PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

Al Qasr is all about large groups of people having a very good time indeed.

The choice is truly mind boggling – from seafood to steak and everything in between – and it's all absolutely top notch.

The outside is off limits for summer, but the three indoor restaurants should provide plenty of space to revel in.

Any fewer than four people and you would feel swamped, so keep it for special occasions, or visiting friends and family.

At Dhs495, it’s not cheap, but it’s worth every fil in our book.

After all these years, a visit to the Al Qasr brunch is still a must at least once every few months.

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Al Qasr, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3666730. www. jumeirah.com

It's everything you would expect from brunch in a French brasserie – sophistication, classy threads, champagne and a live jazz band.

Enter the kitchen where you can choose from a plethora of French classics freshly made by the chefs.

It is the Dubai restaurant best suited to brunch.

Spacious, well designed and full of sunlight.

Celebrating something important with somebody special. Or simply enjoying some excellent French food.

Up to you – Dhs375 sans booze, Dhs450 with wine and beer, Dhs595 with bubbly and Dhs1,998 with a limo pick up.

It's the pricier Weacould eat at end of the Traiteur every spectrum, but day and never Traiteur becomenever bored. disappoints.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. www. dubai.park. hyatt.com

As you would expect from Zuma, it's relaxed but incredibly well populated.

The best Japanese food in Dubai, from sushi and sashimi to the more substantial dishes on the a la carte menu.

DIFC is the ideal location for anyone travelling from either end of town.

Good food is best shared as far as Zuma is concerned, with everyone encouraged to tuck into numerous small servings.

Kitsu (no alcohol) Dhs315, Kowaku Dhs425 (with alcohol) and Kyasha (with champers) Dhs550.

It's the full on Zuma experience, but earlier in the day and for longer. Bonus.

Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 4255660. www. zumarestaurant. com

With a view of the hotel guests splashing about in the pool and a jazz guitarist strumming away, there's a real holiday spirit.

A sumptuous seafood buffet, tandoori and pizza ovens, roast beef and Yorkshire pud and a dangerous dessert station.

Pop downstairs to sports bar West Beach Bistro to catch the latest live sporting action.

At Dhs299 for the basic package, it's a good brunch for a bunch of buddies.

Dhs299 with house beverages, Dhs399 with Cattier champagne, Dhs455 with Moet and Dhs499 with Veuve.

A value for At just Dhs350, money The Talkbrunch that doesn't definitely walks skimp on quality. the walk.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 4498888. www. moevenpickhotels.com

Relaxed with a nice soundtrack played at just the right volume – not so loud you can't talk, but not too quiet, either.

Commendable sushi and sashimi, and the BBQ platter served to your table will ensure you don't go hungry.

A designer hotel in the world's tallest building.

That should do it, no?

Enjoying the Burj without braving the heights.

Dhs290 with soft drinks, Dhs380 with house beverages.

Dhs585 with spirits and half a bottle of Bollinger.

Location, location, location. And some pretty good Japanese food, too.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, noon to 3.30pm.

Tel: (04) 8883444. www.dubai. armanihotels. com

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 91

BRUNCHES

HOT ON HEEenLtaSl DFC THE InterContin

11 Anise, ien Dubai se, Le Mérid 12 Warehou meirah Beach Hotel Ju e, 13 Latitud e Address 14 Fazaris, Th Dubai n ow nt ow D On One, 15 Spectrum ubai Fairmont D

Belgian Beer Cafe

PRICE ATMOSPHERE WHAT’S ON FOOD SAYS...

6 Toshi

7

The Grand Grill

8

The Observatory

9

Thai Kitchen

10

Belgian Beer Cafe

Spectrum On One

INFOLOCATION

BEST FOR

15 SPECTRUM ON ONE One of Dubai’s most established and popular Friday brunches, Spectrum On One has its very own windowless floor – ideal for escaping the summer heat. It also has eight kitchens serving Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Middle Eastern, European and Thai dishes. Plus a cheese and port room and oysters aplenty.

Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, noon to 3pm, Dhs550 with champagne, Dhs395 with house beverages, Dhs295 without alcohol. Tel: (04) 4068999 PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

Busier than your average restaurant, but this evening brunch is more focused on the food than the drink.

Friday is Asian Night, so it's sushi, dim sum, soup and grilled meats made to order. That should fill your hungry belly.

Hidden away on the 18th floor of the Grand Millennium hotel with a bar just next door for post-10pm drinks.

It's cheaper than going out to dinner, so it's ideal for meeting up with a big group of friends.

A very reasonable.

Dhs195.

After a day spent meandering around the mall, you'll require a good feed.

Enter Toshi.

Grand Millennium Dubai, Tecom, Al Barsha, Dubai, 7pm to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 4299999

The Grand Grill is becoming one of the most popular spots to brunch in town, because of its laid-back attitude and chatty staff.

Buckets of beer and huge plates of meat delivered to your table, and plenty of sides and salads.

Dubai Marina, leaving you plenty of options if you want to carry on the party postbrunch.

Birthdays, hen parties, stag dos, that kind of thing. Fun, essentially.

A bargain at Dhs295 with alcohol or Dhs225 without.

The most welcoming staff in town.

All singing, all dancing, these guys know how to party.

Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Lobby level, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3994221. www. thegrandgrill. com

Long tables filled with groups of friends and cosy booths for couples means it can be as lively, or as relaxed, as you like.

Several a la carte options and buffets. The carvery was a treat, but the lack of port could be an issue for cheese lovers.

The Marriott is slap bang in the middle of Dubai Marina. Pick out your next stop from the 52ndfloor view.

Quite simply, the view.

Looking down on the Marina, Palm Island and the Arabian Gulf from your lofty perch is aweinspiring.

Dhs350 without alcohol, Dhs450 with, so it's not the cheapest brunch around.

The staff are lovely, and the mojito and martini trolley is an inspired idea.

Every brunch should have one.

Marriott Harbour Hotel, Dubai Marina, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3194795. www. marriott.com

Cool, calm and collected. Thai Kitchen is not about going hell for leather like some brunches.

An a la carte menu and table service – just like dinner. Only you can eat as much as you like.

The wonderful Park Hyatt, leaving you plenty of post brunch drinking holes to choose from.

Taking it easy with a few choice pals or that special someone in your life.

Dhs245, making it one of the cheapest brunches in town.

If only all brunches took a leaf out of TK's book, our wallets would be significantly tubbier.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. www. dubai.park. hyatt.com

The quintessential pub atmoshere is a welcome change from your regular highfallutin'affairs.

Order from the menu, help yourself to cold cuts, salads and cheeses from the buffet and then move on to the carving stations.

Crowne Plaza DFC, our preferred BBC.

Eating enough hearty grub and supping enough foamy beer to send you to sleep for a week.

Dhs199. You will not find a brunch of this quality for less than Dhs200 in Dubai.

The best value for money brunch in Dubai.

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 1pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 7011128. www. ichotelsgroup. com

92 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

www.ductac.org

FOLLOWING 2010’S SMASH HIT HAIRSPRAY

THE CLASSIC AMERICAN MUSICAL COMES TO DUBAI

TUESDAY 19 - SATURDAY 23 JULY 2011 AT CENTREPOINT THEATRE, DUCTAC LEVEL 2, MALL OF THE EMIRATES, DUBAI, UAE

Tickets available now at timeouttickets.com & DUCTAC’s Box Office

STALLS - AED 165, BALCONY - AED 135, VIP - AED 250 More information visit www.westsidestorydubai.com or call DUCTAC Box Office: 04 341 4777 Event Partners:

“WEST SIDE STORY”

Based on a Conception of JEROME ROBBINS Book by ARTHUR LAURENTS Music by LEONARD BERNSTEIN STEPHEN SONDHEIM Entire Original Production Directed and Choreographed by JEROME ROBBINS Originally Produced on Broadway by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince By Arrangement with Roger L. Stevens Lyrics by

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

WEST SIDE STORY is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019, Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684, Web: www.MTIShows.com

THE HOT LIST SPAS

THE DADDIES OF THE HEALTH AND LEISURE SCENE

Amara Spa

THERAPISTS

1

Amara Spa

2

One&Only Spa

3

SensAsia Urban Spa

4

Talise Spa

5

The Spa

MENU

One & Only Spa

THE SPA

PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

Pleasant and efficient. And they even remember you, which is nice.

Ask for Sue if your shoulders have more knots than a sailor's hankie.

Grouped by theme, there’s an emphasis on rituals and packages that include pool and health club access.

And the pool is a knock-out.

Seriously beautiful, with a lovely tiled entrance area. It's particularly good for couples, with private outdoor showers and VIP suites.

Steep, but there are monthly offers that take the sting out. Bear in mind that this is so much more than a speedy rub-down.

The chilled pool with its own food menu is officially our spa-based happy place.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, 9am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 6021234. www.dubai.park. hyatt.com

Utterly expert, very friendly and skilled beyond belief. If you want to know the hows and whys behind your treatment, they can explain them with ease.

Packed with ESPA treatments and products, the menu addresses every possible concern and then some.

Expect lots of wood, terracotta and gorgeous fabrics. Gorgeous.

Not as expensive as they could probably demand (shush) with a 25minute body scrub for Dhs215 and one-hour massage costing Dhs490.

Thumbs up.

We'll be trying the medical pedicures next, after hearing very good things indeed.

One&Only The Palm, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 10am to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 4401010. www.thepalm. oneandonlyresorts. com

Quiet, kind and with a firm hand when necessary, SensAsia’s staff are trained to the highest standards.

Innovative and imaginative, you’ll find treatments you never knew you needed. Mumto-bes, golfers, high-heel fans and more are all catered for.

Asian chic with splashes of jewel tones; the cosy rooms are a true retreat. And the dressing gowns are the best in town.

Choose wisely and you’ll get an hourlong massage for Dhs310, and they’ll often do monthly discounts. Worth a visit for the ginger tea alone.

There a new express spa at Mall Of The Emirates for speedy massages. A must-visit.

The Beach Club, Al Nafura, Shoreline Apartments, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 10am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 4227115. www.sensasiaspas. com

This spa is packed with experts; there’s a mix of nationalities and specialities, from massage therapists to a GP.

Talise sets itself apart with its naturopath, life coaching and medical testing, in addition to the large spa menu.

The treatment rooms are linked by leafy outdoor pathways, with an outdoor pool tucked away for those day-long spa sessions.

Average for such a high-end establishment, with the 80-minute Royal Hammam costing a fair Dhs450.

Ask them about the Talise detox minibreak at Bab Al Shams desert resort. Superb.

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 9am to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 3666818. www.jumeirah.com/ talise

Superbly trained therapists are on hand to guide you from reception to relaxation.

There are separate menus for ladies and gents. Particularly recommended is the Jet Lag treatment.

You’d never expect this shrine to de-stressing to be mere minutes from The Dubai Mall.

It’s pricey, but worth it for the quality of treatments and snooze you’ll enjoy.

Quiet and luxurious, with quality added extras, this spa is a true sanctuary.

The Address Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4388888. www.theaddress.com

JULY 2011 OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S WHAT’SON ON 95 95

HOT ON S ch THE Ha,EThEe LMon ar

Sp 11 Mandara Spa, One&Only y 12 One&Onl Mirage Royal l, rContinenta City 13 Spa Inte Festival ai ub D l ta en InterContin a & Fitness, Atlantis 14 ShuiQi Sp Grand Spa, 15 The Dubai Grand Hyatt

SPAS

The Nail Spa

THERAPISTS

6

The Spa

7

The Spa

8

Armani/Spa

9

Lime Spa

10 Banyan Tree Al Wadi

MENU

Mandara Spa

THE SPA

11 MANDARA SPA Monarch Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road Situated in the busy Monarch hotel, this spa is a world away from the business and conferences happening nearby. There’s a health club and pool, but the best reason to go is the lunch deal; occasionally they’ll team up with a neighbouring restaurant like Okku to offer a midweek meal and massage deal, usually a bargain at around Dhs350.

The Monarch, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 9am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 5018888

PRICE

WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

Our therapist on a recent visit was very well trained, super sweet and tough on knots.

What more can you ask for?

Exotic massages, a dedicated men's menu, express therapies, facials

by Natura Bisse and some waxing for good measure.

It's all here.

Modern and calming, with pale woods, grey marble and clean lines. This isn't a spa to intimidate newbies.

At the higher end of the scale, with an 80-minute Thai massage for Dhs600, but there are regular promotions.

We're suckers for a good relaxation area, and this one has snacks, books and lovely juices

The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Dubai, 9am to 8pm.

Tel: (04) 3722777. www.ritzcarlton.com

Experienced and elegant, the therapists will whisk you away from the daily grind into a cocoon of comfort.

Not the biggest in Dubai, but each treatment is well-chosen and effective, with a good selection of rituals for lengthy pampering.

The relaxation rooms overlook the lakes at the base of Burj Khalifa. This is high-quality spa real estate.

Average for a fivestar spa, but you get your money's worth with access to the relaxation and steam areas.

We adore the palm-lined pool and fab restaurants at The Palace.

We'd move in if we could.

The Palace, Old Town, Dubai, 9am to 8pm.

Tel: (04) 4287888. www.theaddress.com

An international mix of staff.

We had a knot-busting South African.

Impressive.

There’s no treatment menu as such, just book a time slot (from 90 minutes to a full day) and the therapist decides.

As stylish as you’d expect from Giorgio. It’s a sleek space with dark greys and clean lines. Very masculine indeed.

Not as bad as you fear, with 90 minutes costing Dhs650, up to Dhs2,500 for a full day.

The unique ‘decide for you’ approach is great for spa newbies.

Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Old Town, Dubai, 9am to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 8883888. www.dubai. armanihotels.com

Male and female therapists are available with extensive knowledge.

They’re happy to answer questions, or just let you nod off.

The menu invites you to ‘drop your robe, cares and guard’. Cheeky.

There are Anne Semonin and Eve Lom treatments, plus everything from ear candling to sculpting rituals.

Shared steam and sauna facilities make it an ideal destination for couples. We especially like the clever two-way windows so you can look out over the polo fields.

Mid-range, with a 60-minute Anne Semonin massage for Dhs450 and an hour of reflexology for Dhs395.

' We thoroughly recommend a massage then steak at Rare restaurant.

Desert Palm, Al Awir Road, after International City, Dubai, 9am to 9pm.

Tel: (04) 3238888. www.desertpalm.ae

The spa at Banyan Tree is split in two; The Rainforest hydrotherapy area and the treatment rooms.

The staff are fab throughout.

There is an Asianinspired menu, but we vote going for The Rainforest where you journey through various saunas and steamrooms.

It’s gigantic and utterly decadent, Well worth the drive to Ras Al Khaimah.

If you’re not a guest at the hotel, an hour in The Rainforest is Dhs77.

Treatments are on the expensive side, but high quality.

Make a day of it with lunch or dinner at one of the hotel’s restaurants.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (07) 2067777. www. banyantree.com

96 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

BACKCHAT WITH CATBOY

of phone which, in turn, was connected to the wall).

Back in the early 1990s, I had my only ever experience of CB radio whilst working at a summer camp in America. I gripped the It’s amazing how important certain things in receiver in one hand, whilst turning a dial, life can become to us. Social networking cur- randomly responding in short sentences rently seems to be up there with air, water and to crackly voices appearing from the ether, food. In fact, I’d go so far as to say most of us each one giving me an adrenalin rush as I have checked our walls and feeds before we’re wondered who these people were, what they fed and watered each morning. It’s an addiclooked like and if they were eating Yorkie tion. Once it’s a part of your life (or, more bars as they drove their rig across deserted accurately, once your life is a part of it) it’s highways. hard to imagine a world without it. However, Technology aside, how different is that to a quick look over our shoulders shows we’re Twitter? We toss our 140 character questions, possibly experiencing something that’s noth- updates, comments and musings into an ining more than a fad. visible dimension and, like cyber fishermen, Look at CB radio. When I was a kid, every we wait for a bite, a reply, a retweet, or just street had at least one or two houses with an any kind of acknowledgement that says WE aerial 20ft-high protruding from its roof. Of KNOW YOU EXIST. course, CB enthusiasts were nowhere near as Both Twitter and Facebook also serve two prevalent as today’s Facebookers and Tweetother human needs. My grandad used to call ers but that was more down to the cost of the them earwigging and muck-spreading, alequipment, the legal ramifications and the though I believe the dictionary would suggest fact that you couldn’t do it in the office toilets eavesdropping and gossiping. How fantastic is on your phone (mainly because your phone sitting in the office when your drama-queen was connected by a curly wire to another bit colleague is having a row on the phone with

Our man on the radio tells it like it is in more than 140 characters...

NEXT MONTH: OUR PICK OF THE BEST IFTARS IN TOWN, DETOX YOUR LIFE AND DUBAI’S BEST BOWLING ALLEYS 98 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

her soon-to-be ex-boyfriend? How immense is it to have that golden nugget of gossip that leaves your friends slack-jawed in amazement? Both the Twitter feed and Facebook wall give us unlimited access to the lives of friends, colleagues, enemies and old flames.

And the best part of all… It’s these people themselves telling us!

We can only wonder where it’s going to go next. Will we have our every movement captured digitally for anyone to access? Will our thoughts and dreams be readable? Will Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher use brainjoysticks to control us like marionettes? I don’t know. Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg probably don’t even know.

I am sure of one thing, though. If you tearout this page and put it somewhere safe for 20 or 30 years, one day you’ll be able to take it out and show your grandkids that not only were people in awe of something stupid called Twitter, but they also let any old idiot write in magazines about it.

Catboy hosts the Catboy & Geordiebird Breakfast Show, Sun to Thurs, 6am to 10am, Dubai 92. www.dubai92.com