What's On - June 2020

WE ARE 41

AMAZING PRIZES INSIDE

Issue 507

June 2020

MEET THE DOGS WHO NEED A HOME

The

Ultimate

DOG

10

LOVER'S GUIDE

PETFRIENDLY CAFES

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OWNING A PET IN THE UAE UAE DHS15

PLUS: STAYCATIONS, AFFORDABLE ART, FOOD KITS AND MUCH MORE

Craving a mouthwatering slab of meat from the comfort of your own home?

Enter Dan and Fix, the guys behind the UAE’s homegrown online butcher and smokehouse sensation, CarniStore.

 � � � � �  �

­

€ ‚ ƒ Â

‚

‚ ‚ ‚ „……†

www.carnistore.com

043313337

letstalk@carnistore.com

@carnistore

@carnistore.uae

CONTENTS FEATURES

TOP DOGS

A GUIDE TO OWNING A PET IN THE UAE P30 14 FIX UP, LOOK SHARP Boys and girls, it’s time to get pampered – here’s where to go

20 FRESH AIR FUN Exciting activities to try in Ras Al Khaimah right now

14

22 SWEET DREAMS Spending you summer holidays in the UAE? Us too.

Here’s some inspiration

20

Page 30

What’s On_3

CONTENTS COVER

REGULARS 10 Yalla!

Quick fix of news and upcoming events to look forward to

72 Win! A whopping 10 amazing prizes up for grabs – and all to celebrate our birthday

52

Cover: Sheila Deocareza

Stay in touch

45 CONSUME 46 REVIEWS An evening out in Roka, takeaway from Loca Abu Dhabi and the best hot sauces that can be delivered across the UAE

66

54 WE’RE OPEN

WhatsOn.ae Our stunning website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking.

A guide to all the restaurants open in Dubai right now

Page 50

68

59 CULTURE

65 ACTIVE

60 ART ATTACK Where to buy brilliant artwork to jazz up your walls

66 SWINGING SUMMER Tee off for less with these top summer UAE golf club memberships

62 60 4_What’s On

62 UAE LIFE IN PICS Relatable cartoons of what life is like in quarantine

68 TRAVEL Discover some of the smallest countries that pack the biggest punch in this bucket list travel special

What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in Dubai is also available on the App Store.

Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnDubai facebook.com/ WhatsOnDubai instagram.com/ WhatsOnDubai youtube.com/ WhatsOnDubai

ADVERTISEMENT

Happy

RETURNS JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai invites you back to its most popular restaurants 01

03 02

O1

02

Afternoon Feast at Prime68 steakhouse When: Fridays 1pm to 4pm If you haven’t checked out Prime68 yet, add it to your to-do list immediately. Not only does it offer top quality fresh ingredients and stunning Downtown Dubai views, but there’s an incredible brunch offering every Friday which is too good to miss. The ‘Afternoon Feast’ brunch runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and is priced at Dhs195 including soft drinks and Dhs345 with house beverages. The set-menu includes a delicious array of succulent Prime steaks or fresh vegetarian dishes.

Tong Thai

When: Daily 6pm to 11pm Enjoy unparalleled Thai service and a menu that showcases unique regional dishes, celebrating street food as well as authentic classics loved around the world. Distinctive Thai cuisine in an exquisite setting, lovingly prepared and served by an authentic Thai team. Look out for the dedicated vegetarian menu at Tong Thai. Highlights include kanom jeeb phak vegetable dumplings, gaeng kiew wan tao hoo mixed vegetable curry with coconut shoot tofu and Thai eggplant, and tom yum phak soup with mushroom and lemongrass.

03 Bridgewater Tavern

When: 4pm to 11pm Keep it casual at Bridgewater Tavern, the cosy restaurant with a fun vibe that was made for socialising with friends. Whether you’re looking for a lazy later afternoon lunch, or an after-work catch up with a few friends, Bridgewater Tavern is the ideal choice.

You can relax in the knowledge that all of the restaurants in JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai have undergone a stringent disinfection process. All of the social distancing guidelines set

by Dubai Government will remain in place until further notice.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING, PLEASE CALL +971 44143000 03.2019_What’s On_5 OR VISIT JWMARRIOTTMARQUISDUBAILIFE.COM

OUT NOW THE ULTIMATE FIELD GUIDE TO ARABIAN FRESHWATER FISHES

PUBLISHED WITH THE SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT OF

AED

80 ONLY

WITH DETAILED INFORMATION ON

DISTRIBUTION

HABITAT

BIOLOGY

CONSERVATION

DIAGNOSIS

Available at all leading bookstores across the UAE and FREE delivery on orders over AED100 from booksarabia.com

/MOTIVATEBOOKS

/MOTIVATE_BOOKS

/MOTIVATEBOOKS

06.20 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

HEAD OF CONTENT – WHAT’S ON Laura Coughlin laura.coughlin@motivate.ae DIGITAL EDITOR - WHAT’S ON Sarah Gamboni sarah.gamboni@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Elise Kerr elise.kerr@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Miles Buckeridge miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Lauren Fletcher lauren.fletcher@motivate.ae JUNIOR ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar aarti@motivate.ae SENIOR VIDEO EDITOR Surajit Dutta surajit@motivate.ae VIDEOGRAPHER Steve Eraña steve.erana@motivate.ae WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi firoz@motivate.ae

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff olga.petroff@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza sheila@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Clarkwin Cruz clarkwin@motivate.ae JUNIOR DESIGNER Remy Thokchom thokchom.remy@motivate.ae

PHOTOGRAPHER Mustufa Abidi

GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar sunil@motivate.ae ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran binu@motivate.ae PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto venita@motivate.ae

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne anthony@motivate.ae PUBLISHER David Burke davidb@motivate.ae GROUP SALES MANAGER Varsha Bhatia varsha@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Taran Singh taran.singh@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Violeta Popescu violeta.popescu@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Neil Kalidas neil.kalidas@motivate.ae DIGITAL SALES DIRECTOR Sabir Khodabux sabir.khodabux@motivate.ae

Annual Subscription UAE Dhs180 • GCC and International US$130 (inclusive of postal charges) Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel +971 4 427 3000; Fax +971 4 428 2270 Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae

Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

What’s On_7

EDITOR’S LETTER

THANK GOODNESS FOR ROOFUS

My dog is not an easy dog. He doesn’t like big dogs, or loud, breathy dogs. He’s not fond of strangers or our neighbours. He has a fit when the Deliveroo man rings the bell, and walking him around the cat colony of The Greens is a bit like braving the gauntlet.

Come to think of it, Roofus is a rather difficult dog.

But he’s been my lifeline during quarantine.

Having something to focus on other than my own worry and fear has been essential.

With a dog, our household has a forced routine, the type of schedule and consistency that experts say is crucial during turbulent times. We have to wake up to take Roo for an early walk; we have to make sure he gets outside to exercise; we must ensure that he eats right. And, aside from the many quirks mentioned above, Roo is amazing. He helps me see joy in the little things, like when he finds a treat I’ve hidden somewhere in the house, or when I make him a new toy out of old tea towels, and he squeals in delight not knowing what to do with himself.

And so, I’m not surprised in the slightest that during these testing times animal shelters have seen a spike in applications. When you imagine unknown weeks of pacing the same home and seeing the same limited number of people, or even just your own reflection, the idea of a cute, cuddly companion, one you can pet, take walks with, and talk to (with the added benefit of them not talking back) – is suddenly incredibly appealing. But as the old adage goes (albeit slightly adapted), a dog is for life not just for Covid, so if you are thinking about adopting (and for the love of all things good, please adopt, don’t shop) do so knowing that this is a proper long-term commitment.

In this issue, we’ve put together a guide to owning a dog in the UAE. We’ve sourced pet-friendly cafes, great daycare spots, and things to know before you home a rescue.

We hope you find it useful. And if you’re still looking for your paw-fect pal, we’ve listed a handful of desert dogs desperate for a loving home.

Roofus has given me the invaluable gifts of humour and joy during this extraordinarily challenging crisis. I’m not really sure how we’ll repay him, but we’ve got ample time, right here at home, to try.

Enjoy the issue

Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnDubai facebook.com/ WhatsOnDubai instagram.com/ WhatsOnDubai youtube.com/ WhatsOnDubai

8_What’s On

BRILLIANT EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO THIS YEAR

Disney on Ice presents Frozen 09

When: September 9 to 12 Not willing to just let it go, organisers of Disney on Ice presents Frozen have announced new dates for Autumn. Those who have tickets for the original event in April remain valid on the same day of the week, show time and seat number. a Etihad Arena Island, disneyoniceme.com

16 ROMESH RANGANATHAN

01 LOUIS TOMLINSON When: October 1 The former One Direction star will now be taking to the stage in October as part of his 43-date world tour. a Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai, coca-cola-arena.com 10_What’sOn

When: October 16 The British comedian has shifted his gig to mid-October to perform his hilarious new show The Cynic’s Mixtape. a Dubai World Trade Centre, ae.bookmyshow. com

POSTPONED DATES

12 MADNESS When: November 12 The Baggy Trousers brigade are set to return to Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in November performing a back catalogue of hits spanning their 30year career. a Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, theirishvillage.com

26 DUBAI RUGBY 7S When: November 26 to 28 The Dubai sporting calendar wouldn’t be complete without the three-day tournament, which sees thousands of us watching the action in our best fancy dress. a 7s stadium, dubairugby7s.com

DATE CURRENTLY REMAINS UNCHANGED

24 DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW When: November 24 to 28 The 28th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show has been rescheduled to take place at the end of November. a Dubai Marine, boatshowdubai. com

What’sOn_11

POSTPONED DATES

BRILLIANT EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO THIS YEAR

09 TASTE OF DUBAI When: December 9 to 12 An extra day has been added following the postponement in March. Food lovers will now be able to sample the best Dubai has to offer just before Christmas. All purchased tickets can be used on the new dates. a Media City Amphitheatre, helpcenter@platinumlist.net

16 VIDCON ABU DHABI

When: December 16 to 19 The event, previously scheduled for March, has been rearranged to take place in December. The content festival celebrates all things digital, with special guest appearances. Those who had already purchased a ticket are being offered a free companion ticket. a ADNEC, vidconabudhabi.com

00 ABU DHABI F1 When: December As is stands, the Abu Dhabi F1 weekend will be going ahead.

Exact dates and ticket information have yet to be revealed, but it has been confirmed by F1 bosses that the event is still scheduled to take place. a YAS Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, formula1.com REMAINS UNCHANGED

12_What’sOn

What’s coming?

App of the month

Dates for your UAE diary

Cafu Brilliant fuel-delivery app Cafu brings the petrol station to you.

Choose a monthly subscription for Dhs26 or pay an on-demand fee of Dhs18. It’s a small price for the convenience of having your tank filled, wherever your car, boat or motorbike may be parked.

q cafu.com

Tried & Tested by What’s On

Drive-in movie theatre

All month

Vox Cinemas takes a nostalgic turn at Mall of the Emirates While cinemas have been closed for several weeks now, this has led to questions about how we can safely enjoy forms of entertainment, while adhering to social distancing regulations. Enter drivein cinemas.

Vox Drive In, the latest attraction by holding group Majid Al Futtaim, has officially launched at Mall of the Emirates.

The cinema is located on the third level of the Mall of the Emirates car park, just next to Ski Dubai.

Check out the website below for films and schedules. q uae.voxcinemas.com

Pizza deliveries to order this month

1

2

3

4

5

PITFIRE PIZZA We’re fans of the Pitfire Primo (Dhs71), the beautiful offspring of a union between garlic bread and pizza @pitfire.pizza.dubai

800 PIZZA These carb artists have a classic collection of pizzas that are true Italian taste ambassadors. @800pizza

MAMBO PIZZA Papa loves Mambo.

Mama loves Mambo.

We all love Mambo.

Plus, order now and get 35 per cent off. @mambopizzagourmet

ROSSOVIVO We like the Diavola (Dhs52), a classic combo of tomato, mozzarella, salami, chilli oil and basil. @rossovivopizza

JAMIE OLIVER’S Try the Italian-American with crushed tomato, pepperoni, chilli and aged parmesan. @jamieoliverspizzeriagcc What’sOn_13

FIX UP, LOOK SHARP From overgrown manes to outgrown manis, it’s safe to say quarantine hasn’t been kind to us, aesthetically speaking.

Thankfully though, we can now groom again, albeit in a socially-distanced manner. Here’s our pick of the salons and barbershops offering a safe space in which to glow-up 14_What’s On

F I X U P, L O O K S H A R P

What’sOn_15

F I X U P, L O O K S H A R P

FOR THE LADIES

Chalk Known for its cool, creative cuts and artistic approach, Chalk’s salon is now buzzing again – from a safe social distance. Staff promise to maintain distance during all services, and only single-use textiles and tools are being used throughout consultations, while all surfaces are cleaned down fully between clients to ensure customer and staff safety at all times. a Chalk, Warehouse 63, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3466284. Taxi: Alserkel Avenue. chalk.ae

Beauty Garden JLT’s Beauty Garden has always put a strong focus on customer safety, and never more so than now, says founder Alla Samoylenko. “We are diligent with following all the precautionary measures as instructed by the government and ready to share it to raise awareness,” she says. The salon, which focusses on treatments using natural, cruelty-free products, is also now offering home services. a Beauty Garden Ladies Salon, Saba Tower 3, Cluster Q, JLT, Dubai. Tel: (054) 5540022. Taxi: JLT Cluster Q. beautygarden.ae 16_What’s On

Pastels Popular salon chain Pastels has gone all out to ensure customers are kept safe during lockdown measures, with certified cleaning having been carried out alongside staff training to ensure everything is kept rigorously sanitised. Cofounder Ruksher Malik says all clients and staff are temperature-tested upon their arrival at the salon to ensure safety, while “for clients who really want to stay in isolation, we can continue to offer Zoom consultations so once they are ready, they can visit us and spend less time in the salon.” a Pastels Salon, Mercato Mall, Jumeirah, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3447883. Taxi: Mercato Mall. pastels-salon.com Also open at Ritz Carlton JBR and Al Wasl Road

Snob While social distancing guidelines mean Snob can accommodate 30 per cent fewer staff and customers than usual, (bookings are now essential), hair and nail treatments have now returned, much to the relief of this popular salon’s chic clientele. “The changes were quite drastic,” admits owner Haneen Odeh, who says that they’ve adapted fully to using only disposable towels, sanitising everything with a proven anti-Covid disinfectant and wearing face masks at all times. a Snob Salon, Al Wasl Road, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 3386600. Taxi: Junction of Umm Al Sheif Street. snob.ae What’sOn_17

F I X U P, L O O K S H A R P

FOR THE GENTS

CG Barbershop You’d have needed an advance appointment here even before lockdown – CG Barbershop’s loyal customers have been known to travel from as far afield as Saudi Arabia to access the team’s traditional hand-crafted cuts and styling.

Now, under Dubai Municipality’s safety guidelines, appointments are more essential than ever. This is the place to go if you’re looking for a serious postquarantine tidy-up. a CG Barbershop, Arjaan by Rotana, Al Sufouh Complex, Dubai Media City.

Tel: (04) 2274666. Taxi: Arjaan by Rotana. cgbarbershop.com

Chaps & Co Struggling to catch up for lost lockdown time?

Barbershop Chaps & Co can help, with new offers in place that allow you to enjoy a sociallydistanced grooming tidy-up and pick up your lunch or dinner at the same time. Municipality guidelines mean you’ll need to book your appointment in advance, but once you do, you’ll be able to choose from a menu of manly bar snacks, prepared as you have your trim and ready to take with you when you leave. How’s that for a multitasking success? a Chaps & Co, Reform Social & Grill, The Lakes.

Tel: 058 562 8303. Taxi: Reform Social Bar & Grill. chapsandco.ae.

18_What’s On

Bristles & Mane Normally a one-stop shop for the grooming needs of even the most discerning gentleman, Bristles & Mane has reduced its treatment list in line with municipality restrictions.

Hair and nail services are now operating once again though – as with all salons, booking is now essential – and social-distancing guidelines are in place to ensure you leave feeling both swanky and safe. a Bristles & Mane Gents Salon, Jumeirah St, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3417504. Taxi: By Matar Bin Fadil Mosque. bristlesandmane.com

Akin Barbers As a super-cool concept store used to hosting events for the city’s creative crowd, Akin may well feel slightly different for some time to come – but for those who frequent the space’s well-regarded barbershop, news that it has now reopened under the municipality guidelines will be very welcome indeed. Book in advance for conditioning treatments, beard tune-ups and creative cuts in a clean and safe environment. a Burj Al Salam (Sheraton Grand) Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (052) 3647092. Taxi: In front of Sum of Us. akinbarbershop.com What’sOn_19

UP, UP

AND AWAY It’s time to head for the hills as Jebel Jais Adventure Park reopens in Ras Al Khaimah

R

as Al Khaimah is known to many as the country’s ‘adventure emirate’ thanks to miles of mountainous landscape and thrilling attractions, and Jebel Jais is at the heart of it all. Toroverde Adventure Park reopened at the end of last month after undergoing a number of stringent steps to ensure it’s as safe and hygienic as possible for visitors.

20_What’s On

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE

01 Strap in for a recordbreaking zipline Take on the world’s longest zip line, Jebel Jais Flight, which stretches for a whopping 2.8km. Daredevils can reach speeds of up to 120kph on this exciting ride.

U P, U P A N D AWAY

02 Enjoy the view on a sky-high walk The Jais Sky Tour combines adventure with the zen serenity of exploring the mountains. Seven individual zip lines make up the entire 5km route, showcasing the best of Ras Al Khaimah’s stunning landscape.

03 Tackle a thrilling obstacle course Low-level obstacle courses are so last decade. Instead, head for the hills and tackle the Jais Sky Maze. Not for the faint-hearted, the knee-knocking 10m-high obstacle course sees adventurers having to navigate through rope swings, wobbly bridges, swinging loops and more, all from up high.

HAND SANITISATION

TEMPERATURE CHECKS

WEAR FACE MASKS

PHYSICAL DISTANCE OF TWO METRES

SAFETY FIRST Guests must pre-book online via toroverdeuae.com first and bring your confirmation letter to show local authorities at certain check points. When you arrive, mandatory hand sanitisation and temperature checks will be carried out.

Guests will also be required to wear face masks at all times, and a physical distance of two metres will be enforced between individuals throughout the experience. Children under 12 and adults over 60 are not permitted.

a Toroverde,

Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, daily 9am to 5pm.

Tel: (07) 204 6250 toroverdeuae.com.

What’sOn_21

S TAY C AT I O N S

H A N D S U P, WHO NEEDS A H O L I DAY?

Let’s face it – many, if not most of us, will be here this summer, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a little holiday. Here’s a few of our favourite spots to check-in to, relax and put your feet up for a few days

22_What’s On

What’sOn_23

ADVERTISEMENT

Inside The Penthouse Suite

The Corner Suite

24_What’s On

Prime68 steakhouse

S TAY C AT I O N S

JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOTEL DUBAI BUSINESS BAY

A

landmark in the heart of the city’s Downtown district, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai isn’t just one of the world’s tallest hotels, it’s also one of the best, often celebrated for its impeccable service and award-winning restaurants. A short five-minute taxi ride to Dubai Mall, this summer, treat yourself to a luxurious retreat in the heart of Dubai. Your city suite-cation package includes overnight accommodation in a corner suite, in-room breakfast and dinner for two at either Tong Thai, the exquisite Thai restaurant that celebrates street food as well as authentic classics, Prime68, one of the city’s top steakhouses or opt to dine in your suite. Prices start from Dhs600.

Alternatively, take your staycation to new heights and embark on a memorable experience as you relish the luxurious surroundings of our Penthouse Suite, at the top of the world’s tallest five-star hotel. Offering panoramic views of the city and Dubai Canal, this stunning and spacious suite is spread across two levels offering an impeccably designed space with a touch of traditional Arabic design. Designed with privacy in mind, The Penthouse also features two separate bedrooms and two living rooms perfect for relaxing with family. Your stay is complete with luxury welcome amenities on arrival, plus a private butler serving dinner for two, and a sumptuous in-room breakfast.

Prices start at Dhs3,000. marriott.com or call +971 4 414 0000

INFO THE ROOMS: 1,608 rooms and suites THE FACILITIES: 10 restaurants, SARAY Spa, swimming

pools, gym and more THE USP: Awe-inspiring views of the the Dubai cityscape THE PRICE: Summer packages available including a Suite

Tong Thai restaurant

Staycation from Dhs600 THE ROUTE: Five minutes from Dubai Downtown VENTURING OUT: Cycle or walk around the new Dubai Canal or visit Dubai Mall within minutes

What’sOn_25

S TAY C AT I O N S

DUBAI ANDAZ DUBAI T H E PA L M PALM JUMEIRAH With news that hotel beaches can reopen to in-house guests in Dubai, a local beach break is suddenly looking very tempting.

Enjoy a summer staycation at Andaz Dubai The Palm, and you’ll get access to its 300m private beach on the trunk’s shoreline.

You’re also just a short stroll from the shops and eateries of Nakheel Mall. Rates start at Dhs550 a night, including breakfast in The Locale Restaurant. a Andaz Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah. Summer Staycations valid for stays until September 15. Tel: (04) 5811234. Email: andazdubaithepalm@andaz.com. hyatt.com

JA THE RESORT JEBEL ALI Dubai’s longest private beach is open, and ready for you to dive right in. JA The Resort is offering an incredible staycation deal for UAE residents, with the full room rate back as resort credit. Rooms at the JA Palm Tree Court start at Dhs396 a night, and the amount is fully redeemable against restaurants and experiences, including golf, horse riding and tennis, with strict safety measures in place. If all that sounds a tad too energetic, that 800m beach awaits… q jaresortshotels.com 26_What’sOn

JUMEIRAH AL NASEEM BEACH ROAD When you book a stay at Jumeirah Al Naseem, you’ll have access to its newly reopened two-kilometre private beach, overlooking the Burj Al Arab. Save up to 40 per cent on room rates, with prices starting at Dhs750 a night, including daily breakfast, and your choice of lunch or dinner in selected restaurants. You’ll also get unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark once it reopens. a Jumeirah Al Naseem, Madinat Jumeirah. Ultimate Staycation, from Dhs750, valid until September 30. Tel: 800 58634724. Email: reservations@ jumeirah.com. jumeirah.com

V I D A E M I R AT E S HILLS EMIRATES HILLS

KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE E M I R AT E S AL BARSHA Treat your family to a mini-break at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. A family of four (two adults and two children) can stay in a grand deluxe room for Dhs899, including breakfast. You’ll also get an early check-in of 10am and a late check-out of 4pm for an extended vacay – you could even catch a drive-in film while you’re there. a Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. Valid until June 30. Tel: (04) 3410000. Email: reservations.malloftheemirates@kempinski.com. kempinski.com

Cool and contemporary, Vida Emirates Hills was designed with modern executives, entrepreneurs and leisure travellers in mind. From its spectacular golf course and Dubai skyline views to its chic interior and relaxed outdoor vibes, it’ll provide its guests with the ultimate in relaxation, whether your stay is for work or pleasure. The 160room hotel has a number of hang out spots, including Juniper, a speakeasy gin bar with indoor and outdoor seating, Origin, its ultra-relaxed social eatery – for those who wish to eat better and more mindfully, plus a number of co-working spaces for meetings and events. Vida Emirates Hills has just launched a special long-stay offer available from now until December 23 with rates as low as Dhs105++. The long-stay deal includes 25 per cent off f&b, room cleaning twice a week, a 24-hour gym, pool access, free WiFi, free self-parking and free access to co-working spaces. q vidahotels.com

What’sOn_27

S TAY C AT I O N S

SHARJAH

THE CHEDI, AL BAIT SHARJAH Walking through the historic Chedi, Al Bait Sharjah is like walking back in time. The resort is part of an Emirati conservation project built upon the original foundations of old houses that belonged to leading families of the emirate in the 1950s. Unlike most boutique resorts, Al Bait – which means home in Arabic – also houses a library and a museum. Inside are signposts to the past. Display cases exhibit artefacts from Ibrahim Bin Mohammed Al Midfa, who once lived here. The rooms are beautifully styled with hand-carved timber furniture, while concrete floors replicate traditional clay ones. It’s coupled with just the right amount 28_What’sOn

of modernity in the form of a TV set and enormous cloud-like four-poster beds.

After a day exploring Sharjah’s many cultural highlights, the courtyard lobby will welcome you with plump sofas, fire-lit candles – and silence. Curl up here with a book and we’d say there’s a 95 per cent chance you’ll nod off. The hotel is running a Home Away From Home package, which includes breakfast, lunch and dinner served inside your room, plus laundry service and medical support for those keen on quaratining in luxury. Prices start at Dhs2,137 per night. q ghmhotels.com

AJMAN FA I R M O N T A J M A N AJMAN

RAS AL KHAIMAH

The resort pools and beach are open at Fairmont Ajman, making this the ideal destination to cool off. Midweek staycation deals start at just Dhs239 (plus taxes and fees), and with five restaurants open on-site, there’s really no reason to leave. a Fairmont Ajman, Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Ajman. Tel: (06) 7015757. fairmont.com/ ajman

H I LT O N R A S A L K H A I M A H R E S O R T & S PA RAS AL KHAIMAH This family-friendly beach retreat in Ras Al Khaimah has just reopened its doors. Take full advantage of the 1.5km private beach, or play a round of golf at Al Hamra Golf Club. When you book the Leisure Escapes deal, you’ll get Dhs180 a night back in credit to spend within the resort. a Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa, Al Maareedh St, Ras Al Khaimah. Tel: (07) 2288844. hilton.com

FUJAIRAH FA I R M O N T F U J A I R A H FUJAIRAH With a private beach, three pools and four restaurants in operation, Fairmont Fujairah promises a revitalising escape. The Fairmont’s new staycation deal starts at Dhs299 (plus taxes and fees), for a maximum of two adults and one child up to the age of five. Food and beverages are currently being served throughout the resort. a Fairmont Fujairah, Mina Al Fajer, Fujairah. Tel: (04) 3118151. Email: cro.uae@fairmont.com. fairmont.com/ fujairah What’sOn_29

TOP DOGS

TOGETHER There’s a reason why dogs are man’s best friend – and it’s not just because we both love steak and exercise. Before you explore the following pages of pups looking for their furever home, What’s On breaks down everything you need to know about owning a pet in the UAE

30_What’s 30_What’s On

TOP DOGS

S

ometimes the only thing that makes this crazy world feel like home is a semi-feral desert dog that watches you while you eat. And sleep. And go to the bathroom. The point is, having a dog changes your life.

Fun fact: Dog people are fitter people. Take home man’s best friend and you’ll clock up to five hours of walking every week. Own a dog and you’re on your way to building a stronger heart, living longer, and having access to stress relief

on demand: just 10 minutes of playing with your dog leads to a dramatic drop in levels of the stress hormone cortisol. They offer companionship, help boost your mood, and, most importantly provide endless entertainment – just ask anyone who has been lucky to own a dog during quarantine.

Of course, it’s not all licks and belly rubs. Dogs will have a huge impact on your life and if you’re seriously thinking about bringing one into your pack there’s a lot you need to be aware of.

What’sOn_31

TOP DOGS

Chew on this

S

ay goodbye to sleeping in on Fridays. Your dog depends on you for food, exercise and toilet breaks and once you start them on a routine, they’re going to be following it every single day.

And no more eleventh-hour travel plans, either. Unless you have a mate who is cool with dropping everything to watch your dog – if so, can we have their number? – you’ll have to arrange for boarding at least a week or more in advance.

By getting a dog you are also committing yourself to something like 15 years of costs. Dog owners spend on average Dhs10,000 to Dhs20,000 minimum per year on their dog, factoring in stuff like food, flea prevention, treats and toys, day care, plus annual or one-off expenses such as neuter surgery, vaccinations, and pet insurance, as well as emergency vet bills, and pet sitting. In other words, if you want your dog to be healthy and happy (and they’re family now so you want that more than anything in the world) you’re probably going to be spending a fair bit.

32_What’s On

Finding the dog for you

W

here you find your four-legged friend is a contentious matter, but if you really want a dog, then you should really want a rescue. The greatest thing about rescuing a dog (outside the sense of moral superiority) is that rescue mutts really are the best of all breeds, scientifically proven to be healthier than purebreds.

There are plenty of shelters around the UAE, such as

K9 Friends (k9friends.com), SNIFF (facebook.com/SNIFF. MiddleEast), and Stray Dogs Umm Al Quwain ( facebook. com/straydogsUAQ), as well as dog-focussed Facebook groups like Dogs in Dubai who share pictures of dogs looking for new homes.

But with hundreds of dogs at the shelters to choose from, how do you find the right pooch for you? At K9 Friends, they make an appointment for you

with one of their experienced homing staff. They also ask that new owners bring along everyone who will have daily contact with the dog and any dogs they may already have.

They’ll chat to you about your lifestyle and experiences so that they can suggest a good match. It’s also possible that they suggest temporary foster arrangements so that you can experience life with a dog in your home first.

What’sOn_33

TOP DOGS

Preparing your home

A

side from the basics such as a dog bed, set of bowls for food and water, good quality dog food and some toys and treats, you must prepare mentally.

“Remember, your new family member will be with you for their whole life. They are now part of your family and any decisions you make in your life need to involve them, too.

Ruff guide to pet-friendly spots

S

o now you’ve picked the Hooch to your Turner, where do you go for some bonding time?

There are a handful of terraces around Dubai that will welcome dogs once we’re all allowed outside again proper. The most popular spots are listed on the next page. Keep an eye on Facebook group Doggie Diners for an updated, definitive list. Elsewhere, owners with big dogs championed the opening of Bark Park (barkparkdubai.com) in Al Awir. The desert park is a fullyenclosed area for dogs to exercise and socialise off their lead – and it’s certified and approved by the Dubai government. Similarly, and much closer to the city, Unleashed Dog Park (instagram.com/ unleashed_dxb) opened relatively recently, and is Dubai’s first urban outdoor dog park, dedicated to dogs that love to run free. And finally, if you fancy taking your pup away for a desert adventure complete with home comforts, check out pet-friendly Airbnb RAK Glamping (rakglamping.com).

34_What’s On

PET-FRIENDLY CAFES

Because you shouldn’t have to choose between responsible pet ownership and a great meal, What’s On has scoured the city to find Dubai’s best venues for enjoying both 01. Arrows & Sparrows

08. 1762 – Stripped

A particular favourite in dog-happy ‘hood The Greens, Arrows & Sparrows sports a sunny, tree-lined patio, doggie treats, fresh water (for both of you), a decent cup of Joe, and an even more decent list of cafe grub. a Emaar Business Park, Buiding 4, The Greens, Dubai, daily 8am to 6pm. Tel: (04) 5588141. Taxi: Emaar Business Park. facebook.com/ arrowsparrows

The warehouse meets farmhouse aesthetic at 1762 is a full-on success here, with a range of made-to-order breakfast options (huevos rancheros, eggs benedict, brulee brioche) and coffees, all served by probably the most polite staff in all of Dubai. Best of all, the JLT branch has a big patio where dogs are welcome to sit out and enjoy the sunshine with their owners. a JLT One, daily 8am to 4pm.

Tel: (800) 1762. 1762.ae

02. Bounty Beets Bounty Beets is the everpopular health cafe, favoured

by Dubai’s health-conscious crowd (and bloggers in search of Dubai’s most Insta-worthy spots) and now they welcome dogs. Sit in the lush green garden with your faithful friend by your feet as you tuck into plant-powered dishes, healthy smoothies and, of course, silky-smooth coffees. a Bounty Beets, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai, daily 8am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 511 7373. bountybeets.com

03. Cassette Cassette is the popular breakfast beauty located in the Al Quoz Courtyard. Metal beams have been painted mint; fun Middle Eastern-inspired prints adorn the walls; there’s a long L-shaped coffee counter in one corner and plenty of breathing space between tables. Despite the size, Cassette feels very comfortable and inviting, even more so since four-legged friends are welcome too.

a The Courtyard, Al Quoz, daily 8am to 6pm. Tel: (04) 3491966. @cassettedxb

04. The Duck Hook A family-friendly country pub that’s now open at the Dubai Hills Golf Club, The Duck Hook offers pub grub meets modern European fare. Not only is it great for sports’ fans, it’s responsibly dog-friendly too, so you can bond over a drink with both your pooches and your friends. a Dubai Hills Golf Club, Sat to Wed noon to midnight, Thur and Fri noon to 1am. Tel: (800) 666353. facebook.com/ theduckhookdxb

05. The Irish Village This beloved Celtic pub offers a massive and well-shaded dogfriendly patio where you can dig into a juicy burger. Meanwhile, your little pal can sip from water bowls and keep a watchful eye for stray chunks of meat, which you’re sure to drop if you opt for burgerlord status and take on Irish Village’s unwieldy – and super cheesy – Angus beef burger.

a Dubai Tennis Stadium, Dubai, daily 11am to 1am. Tel:(04) 2824752. theirishvillage.com

06. Lime Tree Café This secluded doggie oasis in the middle of Jumeirah hooks up sun-soaked slobberers until 6.30pm. Plenty of shade and water bowls are available outside in the front garden and seating area. Lime Tree’s other locations in Al Quoz and on Sheikh Zayed Road are also pet-friendly. a Beach Road, Dubai, daily 7.30am to 6.30pm. Tel: (04) 3256325. thelimetreecafe.com

07. Reform Social & Grill (The Lakes) This fantastic family-friendly gastropub is finally petfriendly, too. There’s a big patch of grass behind the playground to walk your pups and the food is great. Ask the staff nicely and they may even rustle up something simple for your four-legged friend as well. a The Lakes, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4542638. reformsocialgrill.ae

09. Breeze Club Visa Mare on Palm Jumeirah is a predominantly pet-friendly destination.

The two venues that are particularly popular for pet owners are Breeze and The Tap House (below). Breeze is situated on the end of the row of restaurants and serves beach barbecue style cuisine with a Caribbean twist. a Club Vista Mare, Palm Sun to Wed 11am to midnight, Thur 11am to 1am, Fri and Sat 9am to midnight. Tel: (04) 5683000. breeze.ae

10. The Tap House Meanwhile, The Tap House is more of a hearty pub grub affair, but just as pet friendly. a Club Vista Mare, Palm Sun to Wed 11am to midnight, Thur 11am to 1am, Fri and Sat 9am to midnight. Tel: (04) 5683000. thetaphouse.ae

What’sOn_35

Q&A

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Paul Sowerby, co-founder of My Second Home How do you reassure worried owners that their animals are okay in daycare?

Why was My Second Home set up?

After a chance encounter walking our dogs in the desert, Vaughn, Sanjiv and I (now all co-owners of My Second Home) agreed that there needed to be somewhere that Dubai’s dogs could enjoy some respite from the heat and have an opportunity to play and socialise freely without the constraints of community rules and regulations. We wanted to create a truly world-class resort.

How does it differ to offer facilities?

There’s no shortage of good facilities in the region, but we’ve always felt we needed to go a step further and create an environment where dogs and their owners could access luxury, enrichment and wellbeing all in one resort – and on a scale never seen before. Covering 18 tennis courts and with 149 individual rooms, the world’s biggest indoor dog park, daycare for 250+ guests, a grooming and pampering salon and three pools – the biggest difference is its sheer size. And to add a little extra pizzazz, the resort

36_What’s 36_What’s On

Our facility has been split into several zones so that dogs only socialise with others of a similar size and temperament. Our handler-to-dog ratio is more than adequate to make sure daycare play and rest is safe and suited to individual needs.

All our suites are equipped with individual cameras, which owners can access and check up on their pups when they are resting in their suites.

How do you become a member? is managed and run under the supervision of general manager Sean Parker, who joined from Atlantis, The Palm.

Why is it important to socialise your dog with others?

Just like children, dogs thrive on interaction, enrichment and vitality. Those that have a chance to play together safely and regularly are healthier in both mind and body. That translates into a better lifestyle experience for both the pet and its owners. We have trained handlers to make sure all our four-legged guests get the best possible experience when they’re with us.

Do all dogs share the same space?

One of the benefits of having so much space is being able to give dogs the opportunity to enjoy numerous different playtime environments and experiences.

It also gives us the flexibility to make sure that they only interact with dogs of a similar size, temperament and outlook. Because we understand that’s especially important for our smaller guests, we’ve just completed building a new loft penthouse with breakout space for what we call our Little Gems. They also have their own pint-sized outdoor splash pool as well as a private area within the main Dog Park. Those that wish to mix it with the bigger boys and girls are welcome to, providing they get permission from mum or dad.

Easy, just give us a call and organise to come and meet us. Because the safety of our guests is our principal focus, each dog must undergo a behaviour assessment. As an additional safety measure we only accept dogs that have been neutered/spayed. The assessment takes about 20 minutes and is the first stage in the registration process. After the assessment there’s an induction day to give your dog a chance to get used to our facilities and other guests, and vice versa. Also included is the set-up of your account and login details for webcam access etc when you’re away, an initial frontline treatment and a voucher for four days (worth Dhs200) in the Dog Park. A one-off fee of Dhs500 covers the whole process. a For more information, visit mysecondhomedubai.com

Providing you with excellent service and an unmatched experience, step into Pretty Paws, a pet haven offering professional pampering by certified groomers and handlers*, day care for small breeds and much more...

Cooling Jackets | Sense-Ation Harnesses | Pet Clothing | Puppy Cake Mix | Puppy Ice Cream Exclusive Brands Such As Parisian Pet, Gooby, ZippyPaws & Pet London USDA Certified Bully Sticks & Jerky | Birthday Supplies | Pet Friendly Disinfectants Unique Fashion-Themed Toys (Chewy Vuitton, Chewnel, Hairmes, Sniffany) *Certified by the Professional Pet Groomers Association of the Middle East and The Canine First Aid Company - UK

Saratoga Complex, Al Barsha 1 - Street 22 M 050 441 8298 | E hello@prettypaws.me | prettypawsdubai | www.prettypaws.me

YOUR

PAW-FECT PAL

Meet 29 dogs and puppies at K9 Friends waiting for a forever home

38_What’s On

K9 PUPS

Annie

01

BORN: 28/01/2018 Annie was found on the street after being abandoned. Gentle and sweetnatured, she loves people but is not so keen on other dogs.

02 Georgia

03

BORN: 01/02/2017 Georgia was rescued as a puppy with her sister, Atlanta, from a farm. She had limited human interaction so is quite shy and is looking for some love.

Catch

BORN: 6/04/2018 Catch was found living under a bush with her mum and siblings in the heat of summer out on the Al Ain Road. She’s timid and shy at first but when she’s out on a walk her confidence grows. She’s calm and gentle in the house and likes to find a spot on the sofa. She’s just turned two, fully vaccinated, neutered and looking for her forever family.

Roxy

04 Spartacus

BORN: 27/08/2018 Spartacus, a beautiful Shepherd/Husky cross, came to K9 when his owners found they could not give him the attention he needed. He is an energetic boy who needs a garden to run in.

Neutered, vaccinated and looking for a family he can play with.

05

BORN: 02/02/2017 Roxy came to K9 friends as a tiny pup with her mum. She loves her walks and would love a family of her own.

What’sOn_39

K9 PUPS

06 Stocking

Hot

BORN: 23/10/2017 Stocking is a shy boy at first but is slowly growing in confidence, so give him a chance.

08

BORN: 10/09/2018 This sweet Saluki mix boy is playful and affectionate. He enjoys his walks and loves people. We love you back, Hot!

07 Aurora

BORN: 20/12/2017 Aurora is a gentle girl who would make a great addition to any family. I mean, look at that head tilt‌

09 Pandora

BORN: 01/11/2017 Pandora is a gentle, calm girl who is very loving and affectionate. She loves cuddles and would make a great addition to any family.

Sherlock

Fern

10

BORN: 30/09/2018 Fern was found in a garden over summer and looked after by a kind family. She is shy and anxious at first, but she will reward a patient owner with lots of love.

40_What’s On

11

BORN: 13/01/2013, Sherlock came to K9 Friends in 2015 and was adopted the following year but sadly, he was abandoned at a boarding facility in 2018. He is well trained, very affectionate and would love a big garden to go exploring in.

13 Aqua

Ally

12

BORN: 21/11/2014 Aqua was born in the docks area of Dubai and was brought to K9 Friends with his siblings. He has been on several fosters but would really like a chance in a home of his own.

BORN: 17/03/2016 Ally is a sweet-natured girl who loves her walks. She would benefit from a bit of basic training but will reward her new family with lots of love. Look at that big smile!

Tusk

BORN: 11/09/2019 Tusk was found on the streets near K9 Friends. He’s still a puppy and nervous at first, but is growing in confidence every day.

Yarra

Tetley

15

BORN: 01/10/2010 This lovely boy has been constantly overlooked at the shelter. He is friendly and loving but will need a patient new owner to teach him how to enjoy life outside the shelter.

He will reward your time and effort with love and devotion.

14

16

BORN: 27/10/2016 This Labrador/Canaan cross loves the water. She would love a patient new owner to show her life in the outside world.

Jones

17

BORN: 24/09/2013 Jones is a friendly boy in need of some training. He is eager to learn and will reward a new family with devotion.

What’sOn_41

K9 PUPS

Darjeeling

Polo

18

BORN: 21/06/15 This poor girl was dumped outside the gate at K9 Friends in 47°C heat.

She is a terrier cross and in need of some love and patience to come out of her shell.

Pavlova

19

20

BORN: 14/08/10 This beautiful girl was a mum when she was brought to K9 Friends.

She is nervous and needs a patient family to let her grow in confidence.

We are sure that with the right love and attention a new owner will see her develop into the happy, loving girl we know she can be.

BORN: 01/12/2013 This boy loves his cuddles. He prefers playing in the water to playing with toys. He is nervous in new situations (aren’t we all…) but will settle with time and patience.

Phasma

21

23 Buxton

BORN: 06/10/2017 She came from the municipality with her mum and siblings. She’s a friendly girl who would love to meet her forever family.

Griffin

22

BORN: 07/04/2016 Griffin is a curious boy who loves swimming and playing with tennis balls. He would love an active home to call his own.

42_What’s On

BORN: 16/12/2016 This Saluki cross is so submissive, he is treated as a bit of a doormat by other dogs. He’s a bit of a worrier and gets stressed so would need a home as the only dog where he can relax and be the centre of attention. Aw!

24

26

Humbug

BORN: 14/10/2013 This Saluki mix was rescued from poor conditions in Al Ain. She is very nervous and will need time to learn to trust people again and build her confidence.

Candy

25

BORN: 28/10/2015 This German Shepherd girl was used for breeding and kept in a cage. She is still nervous about being in a house and is not very keen on other dogs or cats.

She would love an experienced owner with space to run around.

BORN: 20/03/2017 This Labrador cross was originally found in a dumpster in Sharjah. He’s now a big, bouncy boy who loves long walks and playing ball. He would love a big garden to play in.

29

27 Luke

BORN: 06/01/2016 This clever chap attached himself to another family and was brought to K9 Friends with them from the municipality. He would love a new family now to attach himself to.

Kipper

Esme

28

BORN: 28/07/2017 This Malinois/German Shepherd cross was kept in a cage for the first part of her life. She is timid at first but is willing to work for treats. She is sociable with other dogs and would respond to some training.

Flower

BORN: 26/03/17 This girl was rescued from the Expo site with her five puppies.

All her pups have now found homes and now it’s her turn.

She’s small/medium in size and nervous at first but will reward patience with love.

What’sOn_43

ADVERTISEMENT

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Six reasons why pets love ZIWI® Peak

T

hough it may seem like pet food is pet food, not all are created equal. The quality of pet food products varies greatly from one company to another, and it can be hard to determine what the best food is for your furry friend. It’s important to remember that the quality of your pet’s diet is directly related to their health, so don’t settle for mediocre food, treats or supplements.

At ZIWI, a New Zealand family owned business, their recipes feature high inclusions of free-range meat and organs and sustainable wild-caught fish, all sourced from New Zealand. But that’s not all...

03

01

Whole-prey recipes ZIWI’s whole prey recipes are rich in meat, organs, bone and seafood, with added superfoods for a nutritional boost.

Every ZIWI Peak recipe is made without unwanted carbohydrates and is free from artificial preservatives. Designed to deliver peak nutrition, all recipes feature up to 96 per cent meat, seafood, organs and bone in authentic inclusions and whole-prey ratios to mirror the natural diet.

02

High meat. Rich in protein Following Mother Nature’s lead, ZIWI Peak is free from less digestible and incomplete plant proteins. Instead, recipes are loaded with up to 96 per cent meat to deliver a natural source of protein and amino acids.

100 per cent raw ingredients Many pet foods use highly processed rendered meats or meals. Raw inspired, ZIWI Peak uses only raw or fresh meats, poultry or seafood.

04

10 per cent superfood blend Every ZIWI Peak recipe features a minimum of 10 per cent superfoods – a blend of cold-washed green tripe or poultry heart, whole New Zealand green mussels and organic kelp. This powerhouse source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants supports brain, heart and joint function while contributing to skin and coat health.

05

Gently air-dried ZIWI’s Peak’s air-drying technology – inspired by centuries-old meat preserving techniques – locks in the goodness of its raw ingredients without artificial preservatives, made to combine the best of raw and fresh diets with the safe convenience of dry foods.

06

Moisture-rich A moisture-rich diet is critical for healthy kidney function and urinary health. ZIWI Peak offers a wide variety of wet recipes too, to keep pets happy and healthy.

DISCOVER MORE AT PETSDELIGHT.COM

EAT + DRINK + SHOP

PA G E 52

All kitted out

New food boxes to try this month ROKA p46 LOCA p48 HOT SAUCE HOT LIST p50

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

ROKA

Can Zuma’s little sibling live up to the family name? f there’s any culinary cuisine brave enough to take on the fine-dining scene in Dubai, it might as well be Zuma founder Rainer Becker. The chef and restaurateur already has four Roka outlets in London, and chose Dubai as the location of its first international venue.

It seems Roka Dubai hasn’t come in quietly either, taking a coveted spot in The Opus, designed by Zaha Hadid, in the recently opened ME Dubai Hotel. The restaurant opened soon after the hotel’s launch, but was quickly forced to close under the government’s precautionary restrictions. As soon as it was safe to do so, Roka announced its reopening, with all the necessary safety measures in place.

Ready and raring for an outing after so long, we enter the restaurant and are warmly welcomed, followed by a quick temperature check. We’re shown to a booth sandwiched between the open robata kitchen and the outdoor terrace, complete with all-important Burj Khalifa views.

The restaurant is busier than expected, with almost all of the two-metres-apart tables filled with hungry guests. Our knowledgeable server makes drinks recommendations and gives us a moment to check out the menu.

I

46_What’sOn

There’s plenty of choice, with one page dedicated to various methods of sushi, and another offering signature dishes, seafood and meat. The price point is reduced compared with Zuma, and the kitchen team use the same methods as its sibling, just with more accessible ingredients, we’re told.

We start off with the iceberg salad no wafu (Dhs45), a beautifully light dish which offers a teaser of the flavours to come. Shredded iceberg leaves are carefully moulded into a mini mountain and drizzled with a sweet onion dressing, before being topped with seaweed.

Don’t skip the opportunity to try the gyuniku to goma no gyoza (Dhs56). Although, for the price, we would hope for more than four pieces, the pretty bite-sized parcels are packed with flavour. Inside the soft dumplings are a balanced mix of minced beef with hints of ginger and sesame – simply delicious.

For the mains we opt for a meat and a fish dish. Sadly, the arima sancho no hamachi (robata grilled

kingfish), although beautifully presented, misses the mark as it’s far too salty for our liking. The hinadori no lemon miso yaki (Dhs110), however, is accomplished. The cedar roast baby chicken is just the right mix of savoury and sweet thanks to its chilli and lemon seasoning.

The final showstopper is worth the trip to Business Bay on its own. Roka’s stunning dessert platters are sure to be coming to an Instagram Story near you, as they are a work of art. A four-tiered masterpiece filled with exotic fresh fruits, homemade ice creams and sorbet, an unforgettable banana and caramel dish with ice-cream puffs as well as vanilla cheesecake and a unique twist on apple crumble. We wished we’d saved more room. a Roka, ME Dubai, The Opus, Business Bay, daily noon to 7pm. Tel: (04) 439 7171. rokarestaurant.com/restaurant/rokadubai RATING Food �������������������������������������������������������������� B+ Atmosphere ��������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������

THE HOME OF STORYTELLING IN THE MIDDLE EAST

“THERE IS MORE TREASURE IN BOOKS THAN IN ALL THE PIRATES’ LOOT ON TREASURE ISLAND.” WALT DISNEY

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

LOCA ABU DHABI

Quarantine date nights and family occasions call for a Mexican takeout exican food’s a crowd pleaser, isn’t it? Whether you’re a meat eater, vegetarian, vegan, or somewhere in between, the cuisine is malleable enough to suit all tastes and intolerances. It’s also delicious and downright comforting. So even though most of us are self-isolating and social-distancing, we still need to get our Mexican comfort food fix somehow.

Luckily, for Abu Dhabi residents, stalwart Loca is offering takeout and delivery. And now that traffic’s at an all-time low, there’s even more reason to order pick-up.

After a challenging way in (most of the entrances to the mall are currently closed

M

48_What’sOn

TAKEAWAY PICK-UP

save the main entrance a fair walk away from Loca’s doors), we found our food waiting for us at the door and the team kindly help us carry our heavy load back to the car park.

The condensed menu still boasts enough of the restaurant’s superb appetisers and entrees to make your at-home meal feel memorable – like the deliciously creamy guacamole, the fully-loaded nachos, and the chicken quesadillas, which are served in takeout form as cylindrical cheesy wraps.

The shrimp fajitas are a decent size for sharing and travel far better than its beef counterparts (which after a 15-minute journey are a bit chewier than you’d normally get them), and the pots of sour cream, salsa and rice help make it more of a heartier home-meal.

Look out for the special daily delivery offers. On Tuesdays, it’s buy-one-get-one free on tacos, on Thursdays it’s Dhs85 for ribs, and on Fridays you can order brunch at home for just Dhs93 from noon to 5pm. a The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 5823639. Locauae.com.

Order delivery via Deliveroo.ae

C O N S U M E

EAT // HONEY

Making a buzz How to adopt a beehive in the UAE All of the sweetness, none of the sting…

Spread over hot toast, dolloped into a stir-fry, or drizzled into tea – when it comes to ingredients, honey is Mother Nature’s original multitasker.

Over the past few years, the world has seen a huge spike in the number of urban beehives, as people pay more attention to the provenance of their food and the plight of the honeybee.

While it may not be practical to have your own hive here in Dubai, honey lovers can get the liquid gold on tap, thanks to a clever concept from MyHive.

Based in The Sustainable City, MyHive lets you adopt your very own beehive. You get all the benefits of owning hives, without any ongoing maintenance.

The hives are located in the Hatta Mountains, where the unpolluted air makes for clean, pristine honey. When you adopt a hive, you’ll be invited to visit it three times a year to learn about the honeyharvesting process.

Show me the honey Your personal honey stash will be delivered to The Sustainable City for collection three times a year, to coincide with the local honey seasons in the UAE. You can expect to receive eight to 10kg of pure honey each year.

Each batch of honey will have a distinct flavour and aroma profile, thanks to the particular blossoms the bees feed on. In May and June, you’ll receive your share of the nutrient-rich Samar honey.

June and July is the rich red honey from the Ghaf tree; and October and November will be the top-shelf Sidr honey, said to be the tastiest – and most

expensive – of all the honeys.

Not only will you get to enjoy pure, unadulterated honey straight from the source – you’ll also get the pleasure of helping protect the local bee population.

To adopt a beehive with MyHive, you’ll need to pay a registration fee of Dh750 and an ongoing annual fee of Dh2,250. This includes the thrice-yearly honey delivery, plus three arranged trips to the Hatta hives. You can also monitor your beehive remotely to track its progress. a For more information about adopting a beehive in the UAE with MyHive, visit myhive.ae What’s On_49

C O N S U M E

EAT // HOT SAUCES HOT LIST

Spice up your life

It’s hot but that won’t stop hot sauce fans from skipping any Scoville units. Here are eight top hot sauces you can get delivered in the UAE THE APPROPRIATE OPTION

THE BUDGET OPTION Excellence

Zombie Apocalypse

There are dozens of entrylevel hot sauces on the market, but few hammer the flavour notes quite as hard as Excellence’s range of tonguetinglers. Instantly identifiable by the spice-addled eagle on the packaging, this sauce is a cupboard essential for chilli sommeliers. There are habanero, garlic and jalapeno variations, but as purists we feel the original version is the brand’s magnum opus.

Pairing suggestion: Shake it all over your fries.

Around Dhs3.50 for 177ml.

Available for delivery from most supermarkets via Instashop or noon.com.

The Zombie Apocalypse Ghost Chili Hot Sauce is a blend of the super-hot ghost pepper and always-classy habanero.

Yes, it is wildly warm on the tastebuds, but it’s more than the sum of its spice. There’s an entirely unique tang to it once the burning subsides, and we are a huge fan of using it to bolster the flavour of casseroles and stews. You can grab a bottle from whizz.ae for Dhs145.

Pairing suggestion: Whack it in your next chilli con carne, and pour over a bowl full of nacho chips.

THE MILITARY GRADE OPTION Reaper As the appearance of The Grim Reaper – the literary embodiment of death – on the front of the bottle suggests, it’s not a drop for noobs.

Essentially weapon’s grade hot sauce, it’s made from the hottest known chilli pepper on Earth, the Carolina Reaper, hitting a nuclear, two million Scoville units (Tabasco is about 2,500). It’s a TikTok challenge waiting to happen. Order via importer Ubuy for Dhs82.

Pairing suggestion: It really doesn’t matter what you put it on, all you’re going to taste is fire.

50_What’s On

THE BEST ALLPURPOSE OPTION Pain 100% Pain 100% Hot Sauce has broad shoulders, carrying both a weighty heat punch and a complex flavour profile. It’s a habanero and capsicum mash, made with 100 per cent natural ingredients and a little sprinkle of acidic pixie dust. At once forceful and subtle, this sauce makes sense on almost any meal and is a tabletop staple for spice seekers. You can pick this up in supermarkets across the UAE (and via their delivery services), but if you strike out there, you can also get it online at Ubuy.ae for Dhs54.

Pairing suggestion: A handsome dip for grilled lamb chops.

THE CARIBBEAN OPTION

THE CONNOISSEUR’S OPTION

Encona

Purple Hippo Hot Sauce

Made with choice scotch bonnet and habanero peppers, Encona Hot Pepper Sauce holds a prestigious place in the hearts of many Caribbean food fans. It packs a pretty formidable punch, but sacrifices no flavour in doing so. The round smokiness of the scotch bonnet, and the cutting acidity are the perfect level-up for meats, stews and carb loads alike. The little taste of island life has been spotted on the shelves in Al Maya and LuLu, but it is elusive. We recommend trying to track it down through the usual grocery ordering apps in your area. If unsuccessful, you can order it from the US or UK through desertcart.com.

Pairing suggestion: Our guilty hot sauce pleasure is pouring rivers of this stuff over fluffy white rice.

Purple Hippo Hot Sauce is a little-known, award-winning hot sauce that is a blend of habanero and scorpion peppers, balanced out with prickly pear cactus juice, agave nectar, strawberries, lemon and lime juice. Once you get past the initial burn, this sauce packs a whole olfactory orchestra of different aroma and flavour notes. It’s Cabo in springtime, a Hawaiian volcanic breeze, you hum the chorus, and this sauce will sing the melody.

Available on special order through desetcart.ae for Dhs191. Use sparingly.

Pairing suggestion: Sausages.

Trust us

THE CHEEKY OPTION Nando’s You can’t really discuss spicy food in the 21st century without nodding at Nando’s.

This cult spice-slathering chicken chain is now a global phenomenon, built on a passion for piri-piri and precision-grilled poultry. Hot, citrusy and complicated… forget KFC, this is the secret herbs and spice blend recipe we want in on. And having sampled the full range many times over, we find the ‘medium’ sauce gives the best balance of heat and flavour.

The sauces are available to buy from many supermarkets in the UAE, but for the real fans, we present the full restaurantsized bottle available from LuLu at Dhs23.

Pairing suggestion: Chicken, obviously, but it makes a surprisingly welcome accompaniment to a steak too, or anything with a good char.

THE HIPSTER OPTION Sriracha We’re not sure how the popularity of sriracha exploded so quickly, but this Asian hot sauce sensation is here to stay.

You’ll find it cropping up all over trendy menus, in mayo, reductions or even **shudders** some more avant-garde desserts. There are plenty of brands to choose from, but one of the most popular is the Huy Fong Foods variety, emblazoned with a rooster, green cap and Vietnamese, Chinese, English, French and Spanish script on the bottle.

The distinctive distilled vinegar and garlic taste create a jagged tastebud highjack that is so easy for extreme flavour fans to fall in love with. Get yours at supermarkets across the UAE. Pairing suggestion: Eggs. It’s the ultimate omelette relish…

What’s On_51

C O N S U M E

EAT // FOOD KITS

Signed, sealed, delivered Six new food kits to try this month

A

t home, small-scale dinner parties will never take the place of IRL restaurant and bar hangouts, but that’s no reason not to make your minimal meetups with friends and family as much fun as possible.

One easy way to elevate your at-home evenings?

Try ordering from one of FOOD BOX these new box kits…

52_What’s On

01

02

Fishbox

Odeon

What’s in the box?

Fresh, quality cuts of fish, seafood and something for vegetarians.

Reel in options such as oysters, pickled fish, prawns, scallops, mussels, clams, crab meat or pick from sea bass, salmon, sole, and tuna, which you can toss on the grill and cook the way you like it. Options for vegetarians include a range of veggie burgers and mac ‘n’ cheese croquettes. q Order on fishbox.ae

What’s in the box? Everything you need to satisfy your craving for fine French cuisine French bistro Odeon in Oud Metha is delivering luxurious products right to your door – at a pocket-friendly rate.

From quality meats such as Australian racks of lamb to delicious cheese selections and ready-to-cook items such as ciabatta bread, baguettes, fine French pastries and more. Orders are to be placed through WhatsApp following

which you will be included in their distribution list, which changes on a weekly basis. q Orders to be placed thru WhatsApp on 056 874 5424 03

Harvey & Brockless What’s in the box? Cheese and lots of delicious accompaniments.

Gouda news! Harvey & Brockless, the fine food establishment that supplies food to some of the UAE’s best restaurants and hotels is now delivering the cheesy goodness right to your doors.

The cheese selection is endless and, throw in some pastes, olives, pesto, capers etc, and you’ve got yourself the perfect cheese board. Don’t leave without snapping up a range of other items such as cooking oils, snacks, jams, and more. Vegans, there’s plenty of alternatives for you, too. q Order on facebook.com/ harveyandbrockless.co.uk

06

The British Butcher Shop

04

Salt What’s in the box? Everything you need to make your very own at-home Salt burger We all need a little Salt in our life, and so, the ‘not a food truck’ burger restaurant provides us with everything we need to create our own juicy cheeseburgers at home. The kit comes with wagyu beef patties, buns, cheese slices, lettuce, tomatoes, jalapenos, pickles, chopped onion, seasoning and three of Salt’s signature sauces, original, fire and BBQ Sriracha.

Order the mini kit, which includes what you need for 10 burgers for Dhs210, or the large kit which prepares 20 burgers for Dhs375. q Order on Talabat or @ findsalt chatfood

WHAT’S ON DEAL!

05

Prime Gourmet

Get 10 per cent off your first order when you sign up and use the code: WHATSONPG. Offer ends June 30.

What’s in the box? Fine meats from across the world Don’t come looking for pre-packed meat products here, because you won’t find it. The unique upscale westernstyle butchery stocks an exceptional range of restaurantquality meats from around the world to suit the palettes of discerning meat lovers in Dubai. Pick to your heart’s content from a wide range of meats such as lamb cutlets from New Zealand and Australian wagyu striploin on its new website and you’ll be guaranteed to impress at the next barbecue. The selection is rather beef-centric but you can also find chicken, veal and various sorts of (non-pork) sausages on offer – all great quality. q Order on primegourmet.ae

What’s in the box? The best meat from British farms, free from growth hormones, antibiotics and cruelty From farm to fork – that’s what you can count on from The British Butcher Shop. From chops to sausages, burgers and bacon – all the butchery is carried out by the shop’s British master butcher Mike Barker. Take your pick and the delivery will be done using the butcher shop’s very own refrigerated branded vehicles driven by their own trained drivers. Orders above Dhs500 merits free delivery, else add Dhs20 to your final bill.

Order before noon to get next day delivery. q Order on thebritishbutchershop.com What’s On_53

C O N S U M E

EAT // RE-OPENINGS

NOW OPEN

Alici

Come on in

It’s summer now, and business is back. Here’s a list of restaurants that have reopened Alici

Boardwalk

Stunning seafood restaurant Alici is back open for business offering those unmissable seaside views. a Alici, Bluewaters, daily noon to 9.30pm. Tel: (04) 275 2577. alici.com

For a breathtaking setting with all the holiday feels, Boardwalk at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club will hit the spot.

Enjoy just-baked pizza or fresh seafood. a Boardwalk at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, daily 12pm to 9pm. Tel: (04) 205 4647. dubaigolf.com

Amazonico Welcome to the jungle. Step inside this rainforest-inspired retreat for South American, Asian and European flavours. a Gate Village 11, Pavillon DIFC, daily midday to 10pm. Tel: (04) 5713999. amazonico.ae 54_What’s On

Bread Street Kitchen & Bar Gordon Ramsay’s modern British eatery at Atlantis, The Palm has just opened its doors and is serving lunch and

Amazonico

CALL AHEAD If you are planning to go anywhere, please call ahead to check for up-to-date opening hours

dinner daily. a Bread Street Kitchen & Bar, Atlantis, The Palm, daily midday to 9pm. atlantis.com

Carine For the perfect date night, check out Carine at Emirates Golf Club. Make sure to order the crispy calamari, creamy burrata and citrusy tuna carpaccio. a Emirates Golf Club, Dubai, daily 12pm to 9.30pm. Tel: (04) 417 9885. dubaigolf.com

Cassette A little slice of Paris in The Courtyard enclave, Cassette is dishing out its nourishing breakfasts and lunchtime burgers daily. a Cassette, The Courtyard, Al Quoz, daily, 8am to 5pm. Tel: (04) 349 1966. @cassettedxb

Amazonico

Couqley French Bistro & Bar This French favourite in JLT has reopened serving its hugely popular steak frites and more. a Couqley French Bistro & Bar, Cluster A, JLT, daily 1pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 5149339. couqley.ae

Coya The modern Peruvian master is back in business. Fancy staying in? Coya’s home delivery service is still available. a Coya, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2, daily 12.30pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3169600. coyarestaurant.com/ location-dubai/

Couqley French Bistro & Bar

Cassette

SAFETY FIRST

Drift Restaurant Dine poolside at this beachykeen restaurant,where the Provençal menu, water views and sea breeze will revive you. a Drift Restaurant, One&Only Royal Mirage,

Bread Street Kitchen & Bar

Healthy and safety are still top of mind for everyone. All venues have imposed restrictions including daily visitor limits and mandatory temperature checks and face masks. Please continue to respect and abide by these government rules.

TEMPERATURE CHECKS

WEAR FACE MASKS

What’s On_55

C O N S U M E

EAT // RE-OPENINGS

Dubai Marina, daily noon to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3152200. driftbeachdubai.com

Hakkasan Savour contemporary Chinese cuisine including luxe dim sum and crispy Peking duck in a glam setting. a Hakkasan, Atlantis, The Palm, daily 6pm to 9pm. atlantis.com

Il Borro Tuscan Bistro Multi-award-winning fine dining Italian restaurant Il Borro Tuscan Bistro has reopened its doors. a Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, Jumeirah Al Naseem, daily noon to 9.30pm. Tel: (04) 275 2555. ilborrotuscanbistro.ae

Jones The Grocer If you’re in to your breakfast, put your trust in Australian restaurant brand, Jones The Grocer. Dishes include traditional full English breakfast; sesame labneh, slivered almonds and sumac dukkah with poached eggs and asparagus on toasted sourdough. a Emirates Golf Club, Dubai, daily 7am to 2pm. Tel: (04) 417 9999. dubaigolf.com

Hakkasan

La Cantine du Faubourg

La Cantine du Faubourg

Nammos

Step outside and into the gorgeous surroundings of this What’s On award-winning French restaurant, now welcoming guests. a Jumeirah Emirates Towers, daily noon to 9.30pm. Tel: (04) 3527105. lacantine.ae

This glam Mykonos hotspot brings Aegean flair to the Four Seasons. a Nammos Dubai, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, daily 12pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3401002. nammosworld.com

Larte

Netsu

Savour Milanese specialities and other lip-smacking Italian dishes at Larte, the trendy eatery overlooking the pool at Studio One Hotel. a Larte, Ground Floor, Studio One Hotel, Dubai Studio City, daily, noon to 10pm. larte.ae

The fires have been reignited at Japanese steakhouse Netsu, serving flame-grilled meats in a cool warehouse-style setting. a Netsu, Mandarin Oriental, Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1. Tue to Sat 6.30pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 7772232. mandarinoriental.com/dubai

LPM

Nammos

56_What’s On

Indulge in FrenchMediterranean favourites such as creamy burrata or roast baby chicken. a LPM Restaurant & Bar, Gate Village No. 8, DIFC, Dubai, daily noon to 10pm, Dhs245 per person. Tel: (04) 4390505. lpmrestaurants.com/dubai

Nobu Treat yourself to exceptional Japanese-Peruvian cuisine in the sophisticated dining room of Nobu Dubai. a Nobu, Atlantis, The Palm, daily 6pm to 9pm. atlantis.com

Raffles Salon The elegant lobby lounge within the Raffles hotel, Raffles Salon has reopened serving all-day dining. a Raffles Salon, Raffles Dubai, daily 8am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 3248888 or email dining. dubai@raffles.com. raffles. com/dubai

Reif Kushiyaki Tuck into beef katsu sandos and a clever take on Japan street foods from Reif Othman. a Reif Kushiyaki, Dar Wasl Mall and Nakheel Mall, dine in from iftar to 10pm, delivery midday to 10pm. Tel: (04) 2555142. reifkushiyaki.com

Roka Zuma’s relaxed little sister, this fresh-faced Japanese eatery is set to take Dubai by storm. a The Opus by Omniyat, Level 1, Business Bay, daily 5pm to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4397171. rokarestaurant.com/ restaurant/roka-dubai

Netsu

Seafire Steakhouse & Bar Quality beef and seafood shine at this New York-style steakhouse. a Seafire Steakhouse & Bar, Atlantis, The Palm, daily 5pm to 9pm. atlantis.com

Nobu

Soul Street Five Jumeriah Village’s vibrant international restaurant Soul Street is back open to the public. There’s even a new Taco Tuesday deal to spice up your hump day – get unlimited tacos for Dhs89 between 12.30pm and 11.3opm. a Soul Street, Five Jumeirah Village, JVC, daily 12.30pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 4559989. @FIVEJumeirahVillage

a For an up-to-date list of restaurants now open, check out WhatsOn.ae

Seafire Steakhouse & Bar

What’s On_57

LET YOUR CONTENT COME ALIVE

1 million unique visitors a month Grow your business on the largest social lifestyle, news, F&B and entertainment website in the UAE

WhatsOn.ae

sales@motivate.ae

ART + THEATRE + FILM + MUSIC

PA G E 60

Picture that

How to jazz up your wall space at home UAE LIFE IN PICTURES p62 05.2020_What’s On_59

CULTURE

ART

Art attack Five ways to dress up your walls

I

f you’re working from home and need a change in your surroundings, or just want to spruce up a dull-looking wall, consider purchasing a print from these UAE-based galleries.

Whether you want a landscape, a graphic illustration, a stunning photo of the Dubai skyline, a vintage piece or a pop of street art, one of these galleries is bound to have a piece you’ll fall in love with.

60_What’s On

01

TALES OF DUBAI

Founded by two family photographers based in Dubai, Tales of Dubai has timeless and authentic photography artworks for your home. The e-shop consists of images the duo has clicked at different spots around Dubai and they keep

adding to their collection.

Pick from a single poster for Dhs185 or a triptych poster board for Dhs285. Want a limited edition? The fine art prints are numbered and signed by the artist, and can be yours for just Dhs425. q talesofdubai.com

02

DRAWDECK

Drawdeck offers art and illustration from artists around the world at an affordable price. They offer a variety of styles, colours and sizes, so you’ll definitely find a piece to hang on your wall.

Not sure what you want? You can sort through their paintings according to themes to find a piece to your liking. Prices start from as low as Dhs74 for a smallsized print without frame. With each purchase, one tree will be planted. q drawdeck.com

03

HOME HUB MIDDLE EAST

GALLERY ONE

05

Gallery One sells beautiful artworks and creative products from artists and designers from across the world. Not only does it sell prints to adorn your wall, but it also sells greeting cards, handmade stationery and more. You can find colourful canvas prints starting from Dhs79 for a small size. q g-1.com

Duo Toufic and Stephanie joined forces to create Home Hub ME – an online platform that serves to showcase the incredible talents of local furniture stores, artists and hobbyists who create beautiful pieces of furniture and home decor. You’ll find an eclectic collection on its online store, ranging from still life to comics, canvas arts, Dubai landmarks and more. q homehubme.com 04

ARTWORKS

You’ll be spoilt for choice with this Dubai-based online store, with more than a thousand options available across a variety of categories, from animals to fashion, vintage, illustrations and much more. There are different sizes available with a large portrait costing just Dhs410. Each print comes with your choice of a black or white frame and when you purchase a painting, the artists featured on the website receive a share for each sale. q artworks.ae What’s On_61

CULTURE

UAE life in pictures These cartoons perfectly capture what life in the UAE has been like ART

I

f you’re like us and quarantine memes are a top source of entertainment, check out Dubai writer and illustrator Stacey Siebritz’s drawings. The talented artist is using her athome downtime to churn out regular cartoons, depicting this new world we live in, from the

62_What’s On

tragicomic ways we spend our time at home to things she wishes she could buy online.

‘Drawing has always been a way for me to find some lightness in whatever I’m struggling with, whether that’s stress, anxiety or just general overwhelm,’ explains Stacey.

01. Zoom calls

from home

Business from the waist up…

‘My doodles are inspired by the little details of everyday life, like feeling homesick or loving carbs. ‘With everything that’s happening right now, and everyone feeling so much fear and loneliness, I hope that my doodles can make people smile, laugh, or just feel less alone.’

- Stacey Siebritz, illustrator

02. Quarantine candles The smells we miss to help cover the odour of burnt homemade banana bread…

05. Bread is everything Speaking of bread, carbs are life right now.

03. Life with pets Even our pets are bored of us…

06. Graph of the times Life in the time of uncertainty is a ride of highs and lows.

04. The reality of at-home workouts We buy the yoga mat, we pay for the virtual classes… all the good intentions are there.

a To see more of her work, follow her Instagram account at @staceyliezl_scribbles

What’s On_63

The unrivalled authority on golf in the Middle East, backed by the biggest names in the sport.

Visit GolfDigestME.com today!

SPORT + WELL-BEING + TRAVEL

PA G E 66

Tee up for less

Eight summer golf packages to check out MINI BUT MIGHTY COUNTRIES TO VISIT SOON p68 What’sOn_65

A C T I V E

SPORT // GOLF MEMBERSHIPS

Join our club

Tee off the season with these special summer golf memberships in Dubai JA The Resort Course Location: JA The Resort Package: Until September 30 Price: Dhs3,700 (single), Dhs6,500 (couples) The package includes unlimited sevendays-a-week golf and access to the par 3 course and practice facilities. Plus, unlimited access to an 800-metre private beach and swimming pools for two adults and two children; all gym and leisure facilities, 20 per cent off all food and drink outlets; 15 per cent off golf lessons at the Leadbetter academy; 10 per cent off at the golf retail shop; one free 30-minute professional swing assessment; and preferential room rates at the resort. q golf@teeetimes@jaresorts.com

TROON SUMMER PASS

Meydan Academy by Troon

Troon Abu Dhabi

Location: The Track, Meydan Golf Summer package: Six months from date of purchase Price: Dhs1,000 for three golf lessons; Dhs1,800 for six golf lessons; Dhs3,000 for 12 golf lessons; Dhs4,000 for 20 golf lessons Meydan Academy by Troon offers big savings on summer lessons with additional driving range practice balls: 250 credits when you purchase three golf lessons, 500 credits when you buy six lessons, 750 credits with 12 lessons and 1,250 credits with 20 lessons. q info@meydangolf.com

Location: Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Yas Links Abu Dhabi Summer package: Until September 30 Price: Dhs8,595 (single), Dhs9,595 (couples) Sunday to Thursday access to the National and floodlit Garden Course, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Links Course and floodlit academy Par 3 course at Yas Links. Plus, three weekend vouchers for single use and six weekend vouchers for couples, discounts on f&b outlets and more. q membership.adgc@aldargolf.com

66_What’sOn

Order the new Troon Executive Card Summer Pass for just Dhs495 and receive preferred golf rates and benefits across Troon golf courses in the Middle East, plus a welcome gift of a dozen Callaway balls, one free virtual golf experience and a Callaway custom fitting experience.

Available via the Troon International App. q troon.com/ product/2020-troonexecutive-card/

Emirates Golf Club Dubai

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Location: Predominantly Dubai Creek but includes access to various other golf courses Summer package: Until September 30 Price: Dhs4,895 per person Your Summer Pass at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club offers unlimited use of the Championship Course and access to the facilities at Emirates Golf Club and Jumeirah Golf Estates from 9am to 2pm, Sunday to Thursday. The package also includes a free 30-minute golf lesson at the Peter Cowen Academy Dubai, 20 per cent off all Dubai Golf restaurants and unlimited access to the Toptracer range for an additional Dhs900. q dubaigolf.com/creeksummer

Location: Predominantly Emirates Golf Club but includes access to various other golf courses Summer package: Until September 30 Price: Dhs5,995 Unlimited use of the Championship Course as well as access to the facilities at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and Jumeirah Golf Estates. Play unlimited golf on the Faldo Course (after 9am), including Night Golf, enjoy a free 30-minute golf lesson at the Peter Cowen Academy Dubai and receive 20 per cent off all Dubai Golf restaurants. q dubaigolf.com/egcsummer

Jumeirah Golf Estates Location: Predominantly Jumeirah Golf Estates with access to various other golf courses Summer package: Until September 30 Price: Dhs5,775 Unlimited use of the Earth and Fire Courses as well as access to the facilities at Emirates Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.

Membership holders also gain entry to the Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club and Championship Course at Dubai Creek between 9am and 2pm from Sunday to Thursday, plus a free 30-minute golf lesson at the Peter Cowen Academy Dubai and 20 per cent off Dubai Golf restaurants. q dubaigolf.com/jgesummer

Claude Harmon Performance Golf Academy Location: The Els Club Dubai Summer package: Available until August 31 Price: Unlimited golf lessons from Dhs4,000 Improve your game during the summer with unlimited golf lessons at CHPGA. Students can book one lesson per week (Monday to Saturday) as far in advance as they wish up to the closing date of the package. On course lessons are included and one month Own Your Pro packages are also available. q ch3performancegolf.com What’sOn_67

A C T I V E

68_What’sOn

Little countries for a big trip (someday) Some of the smallest countries in the world pack the biggest punch

What’sOn_69

A C T I V E

TRAVEL //

BUCKET LIST VISITS

Lebanon

LEBANON How tiny is it: 10,400km2 Or roughly: Eight times smaller than the UAE With dramatic snow-capped peaks and a coastline that shimmers like the Côte d’Azur, you won’t find a better slice of land in the Middle East. Time it right and you can spend your morning shredding nearperfect snowpack at a Swissstyle ski resort, then cruise back down the mountain for an afternoon dip in the Mediterranean. Visitors can expect cosmopolitan cities, fantastic food, and an ancient wine-growing culture. Beirut channels both the seaside glitz of Miami and the leafy, walkable charm of southern Europe, with sidewalk cafes, 70_What’s On

boutiques, and one of the world’s most notorious nightlife scenes.

SLOVAKIA How tiny it is: 49,035km2 Or roughly: 1.7 times smaller than the UAE Simply put, Slovakia is a sensational steal. It offers the best of romantic Europe (rolling countryside, a relaxed capital city, jaw-dropping castles, Renaissance churches, and excellent food) for a third of the price of nearby destinations. The country inherited some of the best aspects of its five neighbours, enjoying Czech-style brewing, Polish diligence, Austrian architecture, Ukrainian good looks, and Hungarian stews.

Slovakia

with the 12th-century castle, bookends the city’s centre.

Then, get out of town. Get a car and drive north, past the hallway-shaped Loch Ness, up and over the shaggy-grassed hills that give the Highlands their name. This craggy country has fantastic and inspiring views – something that we all long for these days.

SINGAPORE

Monaco

Singapore

How tiny it is: 716km2 Or, roughly: 116 times smaller than the UAE Forget about the Singapore Sling – that super sweet drink is for tourists. Locals prefer sipping crisp, innovative drinks atop a gleaming skyscraper or gulping down an ice-cold beverage over their sixth meal of the day. Seriously, people there love to eat. The citystate is home to some of the world’s most celebrated street food, yet it’s also an epicentre for boundary pushing, high-end restaurants. Come hungry.

MONACO

SCOTLAND

Scotland

How tiny is it: 78,387km2 Or, roughly: Almost the same size as the UAE You’re going to want to traipse up to Edinburgh Castle for some of the finest city views anywhere. And you’re going to want to hike to the peak of Arthur’s Seat, the 800ft-tall faux-mountain that, along

How tiny is it: 2km2 Or, roughly: 41,000 times smaller than the UAE If you throw the words “in Monaco” at the end of any sentence, it sounds glamorous.

You could say, “Yeah, I remember that time I had to go and buy toilet paper... in Monaco” and people would probably assume that the loo roll was encrusted with precious diamonds. Fancy hotels abound, the lido is peppered with the rich and famous, while the restaurants here are all European charm, with outdoor cafes and Italian pizza joints on literally every street.

What’sOn_71

WE ARE

10 AMAZING PRIZES!

It’s our birthday issue and we want to celebrate by giving you prizes. Enjoy some of the UAE’s most luxurious hotels and restaurants, or win incredible products, experiences and a whole lot more. Head to our website to enter and good luck!

Sennheiser HD 450BT Headphones Enter now for your chance to win these great headphones, worth Dhs799, which offer great sound with a deep dynamic bass, intuitive controls, including a voice assistant button and active noise cancellation for uninterrupted listening pleasure for up to 30-hours.

Amazing homewares from Flamingaroo

SENNHEISER MOMENTUM TRUE WIRELESS 2 EARBUDS These fabulous noise cancelling earbuds, worth Dhs1,199, offer exceptional sound, transparent hearing for greater situational awareness and excellent ergonomics for full day wearing. It has a seven-hour battery life and is available in black or white.

72_What’s On

Give your home a mini makeover with some fantastic products courtesy of bespoke gift site Flamingaroo. com. You’ll find several customisable doormats, artworks, homewares and more to make your home unique. Enter now for your chance to win a whopping Dhs2,500 voucher to spend on the site.

TO ENTER VISIT Visit WhatsOn.ae/ win and submit your entries now!

A HOTEL STAY AT THE BONNINGTON HOTEL PLUS DINNER Win a staycation for two at the luxurious Bonnington Hotel Dubai and dine for free at either the award-winning McGettigan’s or you can opt for in-room dining. Take in the city views from the pool deck and in the evening, head downstairs for some of that famous Irish craic.

A luxury Waitrose hamper Hungry? A gift hamper filled with a delicious mix of biscuits and luxury treats, including eclairs, Duchy organic English breakfast tea and seriously chocolatey chocolate spread courtesy of Waitrose & Partners is up for grabs.

A hotel stay at Vida Emirates Hills Seen a little too much of your own house lately? Us too. Enter now for your chance to win a change of scenery – and a luxurious one at that. You and your guest will enjoy a night’s stay plus breakfast at the gorgeous Vida Emirates Hills this summer.

What’s On_73

TO ENTER VISIT Visit WhatsOn.ae/ win and submit your entries now!

A NIGHT AT STUDIO ONE HOTEL PLUS BREAKFAST As fun hotels go, Studio One certainly tops our list. Colourful décor, tongue-in-cheek artworks, and fantastic homegrown restaurants surrounding the pool. Make a day of it with a hotel stay and breakfast inside the lovely Larte restaurant.

A meaty hamper from Carnistore Carnivores will love carnistore. com. You’ll find everything from prime tenderloins and ribeyes to Angus oyster blade and mariated lamb chops, all top quality and delivered to your door. The meaty crew are giving away a special carni box worth Dhs550.

Rasasi unisex perfume We’ve teamed up with regional perfumer Rasasi to give away four bottles of its new Qasamat unisex collection, each with their own unique and elegant scent.

74_What’s On

Dinner for four at Revo Café Whisk three of your pals to Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort for a lovely dinner at Revo Café. Highlights on the menu include lamb harissa and salmon steak or why not try the restaurant’s speciality rosti.