What's On Dubai - July 2024

BEAT THE HEAT: SUMMER IN DUBAI

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‘Gram queen Salama Mohamed shares her UAE essentials

We check-in and check out local leisure institution, Arabian Boutique Hotel

Does Kokoro, the UAE’s first hand roll sushi bar, maki a good impression?

Join our whistle stop tour of Dubai’s greatest sweet treats

Looking for a summer holiday read? Book mark p42

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.

Cover and illustration: Sheila Deocareza

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne

EDITORIAL

GROUP EDITOR – WHAT’S ON Alice Holtham-Pargin alice.holtham@motivate.ae

DEPUTY EDITOR, DUBAI Miles Buckeridge miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae

DEPUTY EDITOR, ABU DHABI Dinesh Ramanathan dinesh.ramanathan@motivate.ae

SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock

ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar

ONLINE REPORTER Tamara Wright

ONLINE REPORTER Afrah Bari

JUNIOR REPORTER Shelby Gee

JUNIOR REPORTER Manaal Fatimah

COMMERCIAL

PUBLISHER David Burke davidb@motivate.ae

GROUP SALES MANAGER Varsha Bhatia varsha@motivate.ae

GROUP SALES MANAGER Violeta Popescu violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

REGIONAL MANAGER – ABU DHABI Taran Singh taran.singh@motivate.ae

PRODUCTION

GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar

PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto

WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza

CONTRIBUTOR DESIGN

Laura Coughlin

CREATIVE STUDIO

CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta

CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew

CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Ahmed Abdelwahab

Annual Subscription UAE Dhs180 • GCC and International US$130 (inclusive of postal charges)

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Let us transport you to southern Italy’s charm meeting Dubai’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect summer escape!

+971 4 386 0066 l RESERVATIONS@ROBERTOS.AE l WWW.ROBERTOSRESTAURANTS.COM

ONE THING I KNOW TO BE ABSOLUTELY

TRUE…

Is that I wouldn’t be where I am today without my female friends. I don’t think we talk enough about the power, significance, and importance, of the women we choose in our lives.

I’ve never had a deeper appreciation for my own female friends, a collection of wonderful, ambitious, thoughtful, inspiring women I’ve collected as I’ve navigated my 30 years on the planet. In the final throes of wedding planning last month, I relied heavily on the women in my life. My maid of honour Holly – the first friend I made when I landed in Dubai nine years ago – was by my side for my final dress fitting; Sarah – who I first met aged two at ballet school – pushed me through my last Reshape classes at 1Rebel; and LC – my mentor, former What’s On editor, and wedding celebrant – who was on-hand to rehearse vows and keep my nerves as we prepared to say ‘I do.’

It’s these (and all) friendships I raise a toast to with this issue, as we take you behind the curtain, inside a wine cellar, and through a fridge door to discover the city’s best secret bars. Many of these watering holes are new, and I’m confident almost all will be names you’ve probably not heard of yet. And all promise master mixology and guaranteed wow-factor for the next time you get together with your closest friends. Cheers to that.

Enjoy the issue,

EDITOR’S PICKS

KU linen mini dress, Second Summer Dhs995, secondsummerlabel.me

Glow lighter, Nadine Njeim Dhs145, nadinenjeim.com

Heart and Soul earrings, Roxanne Assoulin Dhs345, thatconceptstore.com

Beach bag, The Happy Tribe Dhs180, thehappytribe.com

Energy gummies, Rite Dhs149, myrite.co

WHAT’S ON

Ticking off a dream destination at… Jumeirah Capri Palace

After our Tuscan wedding last month, my husband and I took a mini-moon to Capri, a ritzy island that was at the top of my travel bucket list. We checked-in to one of the island’s grand dame hotels, Jumeirah Capri Palace, a flawless display of Italian hospitality with just the right amount of Dubai pizzaz. Take me back. @jumeirahcapripalace

– Alice Holtham-Pargin, Group Editor

Learning to make pasta with… Sagra Italian Pastifico

Earlier this month, Shelby and I visited Sagra Italian Pastifico to try our hands at making pasta. Chef Tala Bani-Odeh patiently showed us the basics of nonna craft, spending oneon-one time with us. And at the end of the two-hour class, we took the pasta home and cooked up a carby storm. @sagra.dubai

– Aarti Saundalkar, Online Reporter

Finding my sofa at… Pan Home

Welcome back to this month’s episode of “Did I mention I was moving out?”. I would like to announce that I have found my dream couch. It’s a modular option, which means I can buy sections of the sofa so that it will fit into my bijou flat perfectly. It’s a light beige cloud that is perfect for getting cosy before watching a really good film. @panhomeuae

– Shelby Gee, Junior Reporter

Feeling expensive with... Nayirah

Chasing my colleague Manaal around… Laser Island

Don’t call HR. I can explain. In a laser tag scenario – old loyalties vanish, friendships evaporate – all that’s left is the battle royale of man vs world vs Manaal. Adventure Island opened in May and I’m genuinely still in shock about the entertainment-to-price ratio. Dhs59 for a game of Fortnite IRL and Dhs59 for 15 minutes of Pixel – a sort of high energy, digitally enhanced cross between the Floor Is Lava and Nokia’s Snake. @adventure.island.ae

– Miles Buckeridge, Deputy Editor, What’s On Dubai

Embracing tech when it matters… with Zofeur

You can never have too much jewellery, and as someone with multiple piercings, I’m always on the lookout for cute designs to mix things up. Last week, I secured two stunning pairs of statement silver earrings from demi-fine jewellery brand Nayirah, a woman-owned and led small business full of heart and a passion for pretty things. They deal with all sorts of metals and jewels, and will bring your dream design to life for you. @nayirahpret

– Manaal Fatimah, Junior Reporter

I am a dinosaur. Not literally, I’m talking about tech. But a couple days ago, I found a new appreciation for the digital world. After a fun evening out, a good buddy of mine needed to travel 60 miles home. Being a responsible gent, he used his phone to summon the services of Zofeur, who sent a chauffeur to drive both him and his soccer dad SUV home –safe and responsibly. Gotta love stuff like this. @zofeur

– Dinesh Ramanathan, Deputy Editor, What’s On Abu Dhabi

Falling in love with my new earrings from… Enso Design Lab

This stunning home-grown brand is committed to making high-quality, sustainable jewellery pieces, built for art and functionality. Simple yet sophisticated, the designs are meaningful and intricate – I was instantly drawn to the Momentum earrings (Dhs990). The gold-plated earrings are playful and feminine and they pair well day and night. Even the packaging provides a gratifying unboxing experience. @enso.design.lab

– Tamara Wright, Online Reporter

DIP AFTER DARK AT GINGER MOON

When: Wednesday to Saturday

At W Dubai – Mina Seyahi’s Ginger Moon, you can keep cool in the pool with night time swims from 8pm. There’s free entry to the Tulum-inspired spot, and a menu of a la carte food and drink with a Cali-cool twist. @gingermoondxb

BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN JULY YALLA

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin

EURO 2024 FANZONE

When: Until July 14

The Fanzone by McGettigans has taken over The Agenda at Dubai Internet City. There are multiple seating options available from standing to premium and VIP, with fully redeemable tickets from Dhs55. @fanzonebymcgettigans

SPLASH OUT ON A STARRY DINNER

When: July 3

The stars of The Link’s culinary outposts align for a one-night-only, six-course dinner. The hidden infinity room will be transformed into an immersive dining room for just 20 guests, presented with a multi-course menu from chefs Anne-Sophie Pic, Paco Morales, Dabiz Muñoz and more. It’s Dhs15,000 per person. @thelinkdubai

A TURTLE-THEMED AFTERNOON TEA

When: Daily throughout July

To celebrate two decades of the turtle rehabilitation programme at Jumeirah Al Naseem, the hotel’s Al Mandhar Lounge presents a turtle-inspired afternoon tea daily this summer. The themed menu comes with sea-inspired touches like seashells, stones and coral designs, and is priced at Dhs520 for two. Book daily from 2.30pm to 6.30pm.

@jumeirahalnaseem

WELLNESS DAYCATION AT ADDRESS BEACH RESORT

VOLERY GALLERY PRESENTS BETWEEN DAYS

When: Until July 12

An Hoang’s evocative, dreamlike paintings come to the Middle East for the first time with Between Days, a solo exhibition at Volery Gallery in DIFC. Open from 2pm to 7pm, her inspiring, joy-filled works express the abstract elements of time, weather and space. @volerygallery

BASTILLE DAY CELEBRATIONS AT BISTRO DES ARTS

When: July 14

This charming Dubai Marina brasserie will go all out with a patriotic Bastille Day Sunday roast. Choose between chicken or beef with all the trimmings, paired with live music. It’s Dhs329 for chicken or Dhs349 for beef per couple.

@bistrodesarts

When: Daily

Keep fit and pampered with access to the fitness centre, a 60-minute spa treatment, pool access and a bento box lunch at Address Beach Resort. It’s Dhs880, available 10am to sunset.

@addressbeachresort

STRETCH IT OUT AT POSTURE DOWNTOWN

When: Throughout July Cult Pilates studio Posture proved so popular on The Palm that it’s opened a second branch in Downtown. Featuring three studios, a lounge and coffee bar, the Balearicinspired space offers a range of yoga, Pilates and sound healing sessions. @thisisposture_

Through MY EYES

THE UAE ACCORDING TO...

Salama Mohamed

Each month, we ask residents to share a guide to the UAE through their eyes, from their must-try restaurants and standout attractions, to favourite staycations and hidden gems. This month, we chat to Salama Mohammed (@salamamohamed) entrepreneur, CEO & Founder of @peacefull. Here, she shares some of her top spots that you need on your radar.

Anantara Santorini in Abu Dhabi is an oasis of tranquility and rejuvenation, and feels completely removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s an adults-only resort, and the rooms, facilities, and service are all top-notch. It truly feels like a little slice of paradise.

@anantarasantorini

BEYOU Boutique in Wasl is a blend of concept store and coffee shop, and it feels like a true discovery. It has the most delicious oat milk latte I’ve ever tasted, and their homemade cookies are heavenly. But beyond the food and drinks, the store itself is a true delight. The carefully selected apparel, accessories, and beauty showcase a wonderful attention to craftsmanship. @beyouboutique

Two things everyone should experience in Dubai are a visit to Roll DXB, the city’s homegrown roller skating concept; and the Smash Room. At Roll DXB, you can strap on a pair of roller skates and glide around the indoor track, embracing your inner child. And if you really need to blow off some steam, the Smash Room is the place to go. This cathartic experience allows you to enter a room and go to town smashing breakable items, from plates to electronics.

@rolldxb, @thesmashroom.ae

Jun’s is somewhere I take people who are special to me. The third culture cuisine showcases the incredible creativity and passion of chef Kelvin Cheung. Every plate tells a story, whether it’s a modern twist on a classic dish or a completely original creation. One of the standout dishes is their elevated take on the classic Indian street food, pani puri. @junsdubai

Lucia Clinic in Dubai is my go-to destination for skin rejuvenation and revitalisation. I book in for the laser treatment with Dr. Radmila, who I’ve come to trust implicitly. Whether I’m looking to tighten and firm my skin, or achieve an overall brighter and healthier complexion, the team at Lucia Clinic always delivers. @luciaclinic

Managing Partner & Group Editor

Six years after the successful launch of What’s On, another homegrown powerhouse took flight, quite literally. In October 1985 the first Emirates flight took off from Dubai bound for Karachi, Pakistan, paving the way for the creation of what is now known as one of the world’s largest airlines.

Two years later, the airline fronted the cover of our July issue, in one of the earliest displays of Motivate’s treasured partnership with Emirates. On that occasion, it was in celebration of Emirates’ inaugural flight to London, which I was delighted to be on, with the service commencing on July 6, 1987. It’s remarkable to think that 37 years ago Emirates began its daily service to London, and now services the UK with a staggering 133 flights per week. That summer, the airline also introduced flights to Frankfurt and Istanbul, further connecting Dubai with destinations across the globe. That network now includes more than 130 destinations, and growing.

It was a timely month to release our travel-themed issue, as July typically saw a mass exodus of residents for the scorching summer months. Inside that issue, we also brought you tips and tricks for

acing international travel, and a guide to duty free shopping in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

While the great summer departure might not be so prevalent these days, summer holidays are still high on the minds of UAE residents as July comes around. Which was why we introduced the What’s On Travel Guide last summer, which returns bagged with this issue. It’s packed with reviews, inspiration, and guides to get you through the balmy summer months, whether you’re on staycation in the UAE, escaping for a short-haul break, or packing your bags for Europe’s hottest spots.

IAN FAIRSERVICE

What’s On Travel Guide 2024

WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE

The first rule of any secret club is to not talk about it. We couldn’t find anything in the rule book about publishing stories in nationally circulated magazines though, so we should be fine. This is our round-up of Dubai’s best secret bars, snazzy speakeasies, and hidden gem drinking dens. Fancy joining us? The passphrase is ‘I’m doing a review’.

NOBU PRIVÉ

You might feel like ‘drinks and nibbles at Nobu’ is already a pretty fancy evening out. And you’d be right. But you can up the ‘independent means’ stakes yet further with a trip to the hyper-exclusive Nobu Privé. Cordoned off from the main bar and open to (invitationally-awarded) Black Card holders only, this bijou haunt is for the set that doesn’t look at the right side of a menu. The walls are decorated with a collection of vintage wine, there are appropriately opulent small bites, and a dedicated DJ to provide the soundtrack for discussions about portfolios.

Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Fri to Sat, 10pm to 3am. @nobudubai

ONGAKU

Take a step through the red door at CLAP, and you take a bullet train straight into the beating heart of Tokyo’s underground bar scene. Ongaku – extracted from the Japanese word for ‘music’ is a high-energy hang-out, with a terrace space that offers views over the buzzing metropolis below. If you’ve come hungry you can make your way through the omakase menu, or select from an excellent collection of a la carte bites.

Gate Village 11, DIFC, Tue to Sat, 8pm to 3am.

@ongakubyclap

BUND LOUNGE BY SHANGHAI ME

The British Navy used to recruit sailors through a process that became known as Shanghaiing. We’ll save you the full description here (though urge you to Google it), but the covert practise got its name from the destination the new shiphands would often find themselves in. Bund Lounge is this story’s characterful stowaway, found inside DIFC’s Shanghai Me. It’s a thrilling clash of Eastern elegance, Western decadence and an Asian tiger posing as a cocktail menu.

Gate Village 11, DIFC, Thur to Sat, midnight to 3am.

@bundlounge

KIARA

One of Dubai’s latest batch of secret bars, Kiara emerged from host venue Kaspia’s formative fires. The aesthetic screams aristocrat chic, it’s like a nouveau-baroque banqueting suite in a European Count’s winter palace. Courtly entertainment comes in the form of DJs and dancers, suave sips, and dainty nibbles. Kaspia, DIFC, daily, 5pm to 3am. @kiara.dubai

AETHER

This bar takes its name from the hypothesised ‘fifth element’ (after fire, water, air and earth). And it’s these elements that inspire the vital design, ahem, elements. Aether is a secluded speakeasy hidden within the walls of the suitably eccentric W Dubai – The Palm. It’s an exclusive nightlife experience powered by the humour of whimsy, creative cocktails and a cleverly curated selection of sounds. W Dubai – The Palm, Tue to Thur, 6pm to 1am, Fri and Sat, 6pm to 2am. @aetherdubai

SMOKE AND MIRRORS

Pssssst, wanna see a magic trick? If you don’t look closely, you’ll miss Smoke and Mirrors tucked away as it is behind SLS’ sultry steakhouse Carna. Here we have a Latin-energy-bathed jazz bar with a reverence for older, finer things. Dark wood, creaking leather and twinkling chandeliers all add to the speakeasy feel, backdropped by skyscraping city views. The extensive beverage menu pairs signature cocktails with a smokey sommelier’s collection of cigars. SLS Dubai, Business Bay, daily, 5pm to 2am. @smokeandmirrorsdubai

NYX

Where upscale Greek taverna Gaia, named after the Hellenic earth spirit, is all things light, delicious, gold and glowing; its shush-shrouded counterpoint, NYX represents the Greek Goddess for night – shadow, spice, lucid dreams and the pull of naked flame. Beset with Grecian odes and earns, Minoan labyrinth fractals, bloodred upholstery, exclusive cocktails and celebrity ambassadors, NYX is the archetypal secret bar in Dubai, and harder to get into than Pandora’s Box. Gate Village 4, DIFC, daily, 9.30pm to 3am. @nyx__dxb

GOHAN

This may be a secret bar round up, but something you won’t be surprised by, is the fact that those masters of Dubai nightlife alchemy, Rikas Group, has their own chic and ferociously unique entry. Gohan is the moody housemate of La Cantine du Faubourg. Transitioning from Parisian elan to vogueish Tokyo diner, your steps are lit by dimly glowing lanterns, crimson auras, low ceilings and intimate DJ performances. And because it’s Rikas, you can trust that the Japanese street food offering will be something really quite special.

La Cantine du Faubourg, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Mon to Fri, noon to 4pm, daily 7pm to 2am. @gohandubai

MOONSHINE

The fridge at New York-style sandwich deli Wise Guys is full of surprises. Huge bread-bound wedges of premium produce, bottles of fruit iced tea and buckets of big Tony’s gabagool. Presumably. But take a look in their turquoise fridge, and you’ll see how deep the rabbit hole really goes. Welcome to Moonshine, a secret prohibition-inspired speakeasy, named after the illicit bathtub spirit concocted in that era. The venue is somewhere between 1920s hidden lair art deco and Blade Runner 2049; the menu – Japanese izakaya. As experiences go, you’re unlikely to fuggetaboutit.

Wise Guys, Gate District, DIFC, Sun, Tue and Wed, 6pm to 12am, Thur to Sat, 6pm to 3am. @moonshinedubai

SECRET ROOM BY F.R.N.D.S GRAND CAFE

Secret Room demonstrates the paradoxical balancing act required of a secret club. You need to shroud them in intrigue, lace them with allure, but not promote them to the extent that their intimate space is overrun. Hidden behind an ‘if your name’s not down, you’re not coming in’ door inside F.R.N.D.S Grand Cafe this secret bar oozes exclusivity –clad in neon and striped with artefacts of Japanese culture. And if you want to get in you’ll have to apply via their website for a secret passcode. This episode of F.R.N.D.S is called, the one with a gatekeeper.

F.R.N.D.S Grand Cafe, Wed to Sat, open late. secretroomdubai.com

HUSH HUSH

Entry into loosely Mafia-themed, LA import The Nice Guy comes with some pretty strict ground rules. It’s reservation only, and you can’t take pictures inside – the influencers’ loss here is any potential visiting celebrity’s gain. But there’s an even more VIP-courting element, the super secret speakeasy Hush Hush. Open from 11pm, it’s a place to see and be seen, just not through the lens of the plain clothes paparazzi. The Nice Guy, JumeirahEmirates Towers, DIFC, Thur to Sun, from 11pm. @thehushhushroom

LY-LA

Ly-La is located in a lower-floor labyrinth beneath the Levantine restaurant Alaya in DIFC. You gain access via a dive in the elevator and through a set of lavish velvet curtains. Cross the threshold and you’re straight into an Ottoman reimagining of the Moulin Rouge with low-draping textiles, bougie banquets, and tasselled stools centred around marble coffee tables. Ooh-Ly-La.

Alaya, Gate Village 4, DIFC, daily, 10pm to 3am. @lyladxb

SO MUCH TROUBLE

GATE TWO BY IRIS

Meydan, home of horse racing and the globally renowned Iris. Tucked inside the latter, is a rave cave with a name that pays homage to the former – Gate Two. It’s a real boiler room vibe, tight and steamy, the perfect set-up for letting the acoustics cook. It’s worth noting that photo finishes are not a thing in Gate Two, cameras and phone photography are strictly prohibited. So what happens in Gate Two, stays in Gate Two. Iris, Meydan Grandstand, Thu, Fri and Sat, from 11pm. @gatetwobyiris

If you’re the sort that’s seduced by the idea of cocktails, couture, and hanging out in gilded birdcage boutiques – you’re about to be in So Much Trouble. It’s a new hidden, can we call it a ‘chiceasy’? Stashed away inside InterContinental Dubai Marina’s Italian trattoria, Papas. The mood – a peek inside Carrie Bradshaw’s dream closet. The merch – cult, pre-loved vintage and luxury designer fits from the assembled fashion houses including Romani, Hermes, Oceanus, and Chanel, is all up for sale. The perks – you can sip on an audaciously suave collections of craft mixology whilst you browse. This isn’t shopping, it’s a little thing called fashion, darling... Papas, InterContinental Dubai Marina, Tue to Sat, 4pm to midnight. @somuchtroubledubai

We’re not here to tell you not to sample the local flavour when you jet off on holiday. But if you’re making for European shores and missing a taste of Dubai’s top restaurants, here’s where to find them around the world this summer

WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM-PARGIN

MYKONOS: LPM Restaurant & Bar

Another stalwart on the DIFC dining scene in Dubai - there’s no bad time to visit LPM. This upscale French-Mediterranean restaurant is home to a delectable menu, extensive wine list, and excellent service, with locations around the world, including London, Miami, Las Vegas, Hong Kong, as well as regional cities Abu Dhabi, Doha and Riyadh. This summer, they’re taking their signature taste of the Cote d’Azur to Mykonos for the first time, with LPM Mykonos boasting a fully alfresco space in the heart of the old town, inside the island’s new boutique hotel, Anandes. As such, you’ll be able to tuck in to all of your LPM classics like the warm prawns and salt crust seabass, but in an LPM first, the restaurant will also welcome hotel guests for breakfast.

@lpmmykonos

BODRUM: The MAINE

From award-winning gastropreneur Joey Ghazal comes The MAINE Bodrum, the sixth iteration of The MAINE worldwide. The brand’s second seasonal location sits pretty upon a hilltop in the Maxx Royal Resort, alongside renowned names like Caviar Kaspia and Scorpios. Much like the its sister outpost in Ibiza, The MAINE Bodrum features a dark, rustic aesthetic, with seating for 150 across the indoor and alfresco terrace. Lit almost entirely by candlelight, it’s a sleek and sophisticated spot for romantic dinners and get-togethers with friends alike. On the menu, guests can enjoy fresh seafood from the raw bar, an extensive array of hot and cold starters designed to share, and the brand’s classic selection of fresh fish and prime meats. Iconic MAINE dishes, like the sea bass ceviche, tomato carpaccio, chargrilled artichokes, sticky short ribs and lobster taglioni, also make their way onto the Bodrum menu.

@themainebodrum

CANNES: Zuma

A destination known and loved around the world for its haute Japanese cuisine and vibrant bar scene, Zuma is a global name with permanent locations in London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Miami, Madrid, Rome, New York, Las Vegas and Maldives, amongst others. Each summer it returns to the hedonistic shores of Europe’s most beloved party spots, including Mykonos, Bodrum, Ibiza, Porto Cervo and Capri. New for 2024, Zuma has landed in Cannes alongside Nammos at the legendary Palm Beach, a former playground of the rich and famous. Welcoming guests for dinner only, it will be open year-round, and features a sultrily-lit restaurant adorned in the sleek, minimalistic design touches Zuma is known for, and features both sushi and robata counters. @zumacannesofficial

CANNES: Nammos

Born on the party island of Mykonos, Nammos beach club became a smash hit success story when it opened in Dubai in 2019. A pop-up in Doha and a seasonal opening in Limassol followed, with the next permanent location now welcoming guests to the shorefront of one of the world’s most alluring destinations, Cannes. Inviting the South of France’s glamorous jet-setters to perch up under its signature turquoise striped parasols, Nammos Cannes is located at Palm Beach Cannes. It’s a glamourous ode to the golden days of Cannes in the 1960s, spread across a sprawling pool club, relaxed beach, and lively restaurant.

@nammoscannes

MARBELLA: Gaia

Fundamental Hospitality is behind one of Dubai’s biggest homegrown culinary success stories, Gaia. The upscale Greek restaurant proved so popular in Dubai that it’s since expanded to Monte Carlo, Doha and London. But for its fifth opening, the brand has chosen to debut in the popular Spanish summer holiday town of Marbella, now welcoming guests to discover its authentic Greek cuisine with a modern twist in the heart of the popular Puente Romano Beach Resort. It’s in good company – you’ll also find COYA, Cipriani, and Nobu here. Come for a dinner of Greek-Mediterranean fare in a light and refined setting, then keep the party going at NYX, the brand’s sophisticated late-night speakeasy, an exclusive cocktail bar tucked inside the restaurant. @gaia_marb

IBIZA: Clap

Its modern Japanese cuisine and sleek rooftop bar have made Clap one of DIFC’s most popular spots for everything from business lunch to Saturday brunch and after-work drinks. But this year the brand expands into daylife with a 16,000 square metre beach club and restaurant in the serene Talamanca opening this July. Of course, the venue will feature a signature restaurant and bar, all alfresco to make the most of the gorgeous setting and beautiful Balearic weather. But new for the brand, and exclusive to Ibiza, will be a 50-metre swimming pool flanked by greenery, cabanas and floating pool beds. Bliss. @clapibiza

PORTO CERVO:

Billionaire

Extravagant dinner and a show Billionaire temporarily shuts its doors in Dubai for summer, as its masters of extravaganza embark on sensational shows at the brand’s seasonal locations in Porto Cervo and Monte Carlo. The venue in Porto Cervo opens from July 19 until August 31, during which time the rich and famous flock to these haute shores on the Sardinian coast. Each night, guests can dine on internationally-influenced dishes while admiring the sensational stage shows of singers, dancers and circus performers. Don’t miss the limited shows of Alessandro Ristori & The Portofinos, who will revive the glory days of 60’s Italian pop culture with shows on July 24 and 25, plus August 5, 6, 8, 12, 13, 19 and 20. @billionairepcervo

SAINT TROPEZ: Nikki Beach

Nikki Beach Hospitality is behind some of the world’s best beach clubs, and each summer, party people flock to their shores to ‘Celebrate Life’ in some of the best known destinations for sun-soaked summers. Returning this year is Nikki Beach Saint Tropez, the brand’s European flagship and first ever European location. At the forefront of the party scene for the last two decades of summers, its undergone a full renovation for the 2024 season, promising an enhanced and more exclusive experience this time around. It’s all-white decor, fabulous restaurant, and inviting swimming pool all remain, with a new focus on pool parties and destination dining. Also catch Nikki Beach back in action in Montenegro, Porto Cervo, Monte Carlo, Marbella, Mallorca, and Ibiza. @nikkibeachsainttropez

WORDS: MANAAL FATIMAH

Dubai is the place to be for cultural movements, collectives and cliques that foster art forms, ideologies and disciplines. With such a diverse melting pot of nationalities and walks of life, there’s a space that’ll speak to everyone’s heart.

ART AND MUSIC

Secta Collective

This musical hive is an artistled, community-based event and record label focused on introducing patrons to dancefloor driven, high energy rolling techno and has been spearheading Dubai’s underground scene.

Created by a group of passionate music lovers, producers, sound engineers and creatives from all musical walks, this is a space that encourages listeners of niche genres to find their tribe and discover new ones. The techno collective also has an independent record label, which fosters growing musical talent.

@sectacollective

Bootleg Griot

Bootleg Griot is a moving public library project with a little more quirk and colour than your average library. The overall aim is to create an open space for all to access literature, print media and the written word, fostering a community where the stories speak to your heart. While the focus is the library concept rooted in African culture, with pops-up across different locations, they also host storytelling sessions, photography events, artsy workshops and storied talks.

@bootleg.griot

The Ren House

This is a multifunctional space that blends art and mental wellness. Located near Sharaf DG Metro Station, The Ren brings art and therapy together to create a community and hosts talks, walks, workshops and sessions. The aim is to tap into the meditative, restorative, healing side of art, supplemented by loads of yoga and mindful conversations. It’s all very contemporary and forward thinking and with the variety of events they host, you’re sure to find something that works for you.

@therenhouse.ae

Honeycomb Hi-Fi

This Business Bay izakaya is a beautiful mish-mash of great food, great drinks and great vibes. The experience is driven by music, the love of it in all the forms and genres. It’s a great place for musical enthusiasts to frequent and find like-minded people who share the same passion for soulful sounds. They have a weekly schedule of music to discover, talented artists playing the decks and the instruments, and they regularly host listening parties for their patrons.

@honeycombhifi

The Ren House

Vinyl Souk

Some musical retail therapy for you.

This monthly event aims to promote and foster analog culture in the city, and is a marketplace for analog equipment, audio bits, musical gear and of course, music. The souq hops from place to place every month, setting up shop in a different location each time. They have a cool concept of swapping, where you bring your personal collection of vinyls, cassettes and CDs to exchange with the collection of someone likeminded. They even host workshops to teach you how the analog gear works, and of course have some uber cool artists to bring the party.

@vinylsoukdxb

Bayt Al Mamzar

Bayt Al Mamzar is your answer to all things contemporary art, and has been an independent art space for local creatives to find their footing in the art world for a while now. They regularly host residency programmes, exhibitions and public programmes, and house artist studios and a growing library collection. They welcome the spirit of innovation, experiment and collaboration. They also have an annual schedule of exhibitions, collectives of residents and a space welcoming all to explore their creativity.

@baytalmamzar

thejamjar

Another community art space, here you can come to learn, no matter what age you are. There’s a lot happening here, from DIY sessions to art camps, workshops, talks, private events and afterschool programmes. If you already have a community of artists you’re fostering, you can book out the Alserkal Avenue space for private events, and if you’re looking to be a part of one, their workshops and sessions are perfect for you. The aim is to engage audiences, promote local artists and support the development of Dubai’s art scene. One of their three spaces is an early-stage idea incubator of sorts, another one is a large space for projects and events and of course, there is the main studio.

@thejamjardubai

STAGE AND SCREEN

Blank Space

Primarily a poetry club, Blank Space provides a platform to all those who want to bring the written word to life, be it poetry, music or stand up comedy. It’s basically a space for all forms of ink to become spoken word and the best part is, anyone who desires can take the stage. They regularly host open mic nights and hop around the city’s creative scene bringing the club to different locations. They also alternate between live and virtual events, lyricism and stand up comedy.

@thebspacex

Dubai Drama Group wears the proud badge of being the UAE’s oldest community theatre company, founded in 1984. The non-profit theatre group welcomes adults of all ages and backgrounds and is a great place to belong if you enjoy amateur dramatics. The group puts on four scripted plays each year and holds monthly play readings and workshops at various locations run by a committee of passionate volunteers who meet every month. Membership to Dubai Drama Group costs Dhs100, and is valid for one year. It’s a well-oiled system that fosters good theatre.

@dubaidramagroup

Courtyard Playhouse

The Courtyard Playhouse was established in 2013 and is the passion project of two theatre-lovers, Kemsley Dickinson and his wife Tiffany Schultz. Found in Al Quoz, Dubai’s first independent small theatre and performing arts training centre is the place to be. It started from the Desert Monologues Acting Workshop for Adults taught by Kemsley Dickinson in February, 2008. Today, it’s a huge family, with an improvisation programme, workshops for kids and adults and loads of theatre and comedy events taking place throughout the year. Whether you like to be on the stage or off, this is the place for you.

@courtyardplayhouse

Catch classical regional films at everyone’s favourite resident arthouse cinema for a dose of alternative art. Cinema Akil is the only independent cinema in the GCC and a hotspot for all things vintage on the silver screen, and the community to belong to if you’re a cinephile, regional cinema enthusiast or a connoisseur of the classics. Not only do they screen these amazing films, they give you a chance to see the brains behind some of these works of art in person, with talks and Q&A sessions. Cinema Akil fosters a love for your own, bringing the lesser known regional stories and storytellers to the forefront.

@cinemaakil

Dubai Drama Group

Cinema Akil

FASHION AND STREET CULTURE

Dayo Community

Dayo Community is a label, but it is also just as much a fashion collective. The story comes from the name –Dayo, which means expat, immigrant, alien or from the outside in Tagalog. The collections are all premium streetwear, with loads of super cool collaborations with local designers, streetwear champions and up and coming brands that do everything, from upcycled fabric to social messaging, and even host pop-ups. It’s a great way to foster a community of a very specific type of fashion thinker, and they’ve even started a series of video documentaries about expats in Dubai who are doing unique, exciting things. @dayocommunity

LITERATURE

Safar Book Group

Safar Book Group still runs like an authentic, out-of-home book club, organised on Facebook and convening on the third Sunday of every month. The group has quite the reach, with 4,400 members currently signed up. Best of all, the group is public and open to everyone. If you’re new to Dubai, joining a club like this could be a great way to meet new people, particularly if you have a passion for reading. meetup.com

Habibi Skate Shop

FOOD

Supper clubs

Born from a love for skateboarding, this is a UAEbased, entirely homegrown, pro-Palestine brand brewed with love and passion. Obviously the primary aim is to provide local skateboarders with top-quality products and equipment at fair prices but it’s also about creating a space where skaters can come and find each other. You can find everything you would need for your skating journey here, including stunning skateboards you can make your own and streetwear from niche brands. They also host events and skate jams for the community. @habibiskateshop

At supper clubs, find a community of foodies, make new friends, learn about far off cultures and crafts, and collectively go through a grounding dining experience. There are many supper clubs in Dubai championing all parts of the world, so there’s a cuisine, culture and story from everywhere. That’s the wonderful thing about something as intimate as a supper club – you hear the story, see the chef as flesh and bones and not just a beautifully plated dish. Haus of Vo is a fine example and perfect for South-East Asian food “where haute cuisine meets avant-garde flair.” What started as a pandemic passion project by host Madame Vo has now turned into one of Dubai’s unmissable foodie experiences. With impressive views over Dubai and the soothing sounds of jazz and meaningful conversations, Madame Vo prepares a menu inspired by her Hong Kong, Vietnamese, and German roots. Enter as strangers, leave as friends. @hausofvo

Restaurant Opening Timings: 12pm - 1am

REVIEW:

KOKORO

What does the UAE’s first hand roll bar bring to the counter?

Whilst the fare at Kokoro is delicious, the novelty lies in the experience. Kokoro, Dubai’s first hand roll bar is the newest Japanese offering at Alserkal Avenue, a small, almost hole-in-the-wall spot free of frills and fuss and full of the casual, inviting warmth one usually finds at a space like this. And fresh fish, of course. Every variety of it.

Everything about Kokoro says laidback but not lazy, spontaneous but not overwhelming, so very cool but not alienating. Like that hipster barista you know who makes you feel like they woke up today to brew coffee for you and you alone. It’s easy and welcoming, to the point where I felt comfortable dining on my own.

AMBIANCE

The interiors are all wood, metal and glass –very minimal-industrial-chic. This new brand of simplistic design may seem too bare-bones to have any flavour, but that

edgy effortlessness blends in perfectly with the rest of Alserkal Avenue. Murals of traditional Japanese men against Dubai’s modern skyline are the picture perfect summation of Kokoro.

There are tables lined up against one corner of the wall, opposite the centre of this universe – the hand roll bar. Low bar stools line the entirety of the outer semicircle, where you are seated as the sushi chefs stand before you, preparing and serving freshly made rolls. It doesn’t get fresher than that.

The transparency goes into the meats and all cuts of fish that you can see inside glass displays. Neon signage, the occasional spot of greenery and rubber ducks dressed up in rather unique outfits (my dinner companion was a duck clad in full Storm Trooper garb) complete the kitsch-yetcool look.

FOOD

dishes in sets of three, four and five, which have a predetermined choice of handroll. I ordered the set of five (Dhs150), which had the sake, negitoro, spicy tuna, avocado and kani rolls. The sushi is simple - just rice, fish and slices of an accompanying vegetable, and a big sheet of seaweed. This helps the flavours shine, and you can tell that everything is premium.

While this may be all about the hand rolls, the Maguro crudo (Dhs75) is my personal favourite, with bluefin tuna, pickled cucumber and ponzu. Not only is the fish incredibly fresh, it’s packed with bright, acidic flavours while still staying light and palatable. The sunomono salad (Dhs40) made with pickled cucumber, tomato, crispy garlic and shallots is another winner – a delicious combination of textures elevated with a spicy, zesty dressing that is a flavour concentrate, and a great side dish to cleanse your palate as you go.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

The menu is divided into three sections; handrolls, crudo, and nigiri and sashimi, with a side of salad. You can pick your

Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Sun to Wed, 12pm to 10.30pm, Thur to Sat, 12pm to 11.30pm. @kokoro.dxb

Kokoro is a welcome and unique addition to Alserkal.

Words: Miles Buckeridge

BAR REVIEW: PARADISO, FIVE LUXE

Roll up, roll up, a circus of Spanish flair has breezed into town...

When it’s at its best, hospitality plays out like a conjuring trick. You’re presented with something that feels familiar but after some creative misdirection, a dramatic shuffling of the deck... Abracadabra, your expectations shatter as the metaphorical rabbit is yanked from the hat.

And like illusionism, it’s often what you don’t see that makes a particular leisure experience magical. But one of Dubai’s newest drinking holes, Paradiso goes yet further, inviting the line between bar craft and wizardry to all but disappear.

FOR MY NEXT TRICK

Paradiso’s story begins in Barcelona – a hidden bar within a sandwich shop in the city’s buzzing Gothic Quarter. The intimate space became known as a stage for tricksy mixology, word spread, and in 2022 the speakeasy was awarded the top spot in the World’s 50 Best Bars.

Earlier this year, the curtains swung open on a global expansion – Dubai, a smart choice for a brand seeking nightlife immortality. It’s found at FIVE LUXE JBR, and whilst it holds its Iberian cards close to its chest, the Dubai location comes with a few new tricks up its sleeve.

Paradiso Dubai is larger and extends across both an interior and terrace space. The design theme is “two tickets to the vintage circus, please,” with sinister clown busts, carnival lights, and Big Top colour schemes. It’s all suitably arcane.

FANTASTIC DRINKS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM

The most vital Catalonian component is the famously ‘theatrical’ cocktail menu. As well as some of the bar staff behind it. In Dubai we’re treated to a ‘best of’ medley – with examples from past and present Barcelona drink collections. These are concoctions conceived on a mandate of smoke and fun house mirrors.

There’s a truffle-y twist on an old fashioned, Great Gatsby (Dhs128); Legacy (Dhs80) – a rum-based sip served inside a book with an edible page; a mezcal and hibiscus-based ‘cloud’ (Dhs90), which comes crowned with its own counterfeit cumuliform. But the real magic is in the preparation rituals. Don’t miss the show –start with a seat at the bar.

BIG TOP TAPAS

Big plates are out, tapas is in. At least in Paradiso. There are some gems in their collection – the plump and creamy truffle brioche pockets (Dhs55) stick their hooks deep into your dopamine receptors; the duck croquettes (Dhs50) are immediately reminiscent of Barcelona’s fabled street food scene; and the awe of the raw range almost makes up for the lack of Iberico.

FIVE LUXE, JBR,

The Walk, Mon to Fri 7pm to 2am, Sat to Sun 7pm to 3am.

Tel: (0)4 275 9999

@paradisodubai

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Paradiso is one of the most creative cocktail spots in Dubai, once the crowds find out about it, there’ll be no more space in the big top.

Words: Shelby Gee

REVIEW: BKRY

A breakfast of champs

I’m a notorious night owl, and if it weren’t for the fact that I’m contractually obliged to go to the office, I’d probably get up after 10am every morning. But when places like bkry in Alserkal exist, I will acknowledge there are benefits to waking up early enough for breakfast.

An experimental backspace that is has an authentic passion for the art and tradition of baking. Flour that is milled in-house, and butter that is churned in the back – there is an actual sense that baking means business at bkry.

I’ve had my fair share of croissants in my life, there is just something about the perfectly folded, airy pastry that pulls apart so effortlessly. And when I took my first bite into the crispy-on-the-outside, perfectly-spongy-on-theinside one from bkry, it was as though I’d just bit into a cloud of ethereal deliciousness.

Any variation of croissant you could

imagine, bkry will likely have. In the back, a glass box of bakers fold, knead, and fill the pastries, the love sparkling in their eyes.

Although we’re focusing a lot on the croissants, their babkas, cinnamon rolls and food menu are just as stellar.

The breakfast menu is short and sweet but packs a punch in the flavour department. Whoever thought to put a stracciatella cheese toastie (Dhs46) on the

breakfast menu is a legend in my eyes. It’s gooey and crunchy in all the right places. No breakfast menu is complete without a shakshouka (Dhs58), and the one at bkry is one we’d order over again.

Back to the pastries – it’s difficult to choose which one of the croissants was my favourite. On the savoury front I’d have to say the cheese croissant (Dhs27) with its salty bechamel filling was a favourite. While from the sweet selection, the almond croissant (Dhs25), the cruffin (Dhs25), and the chocolate hazelnut croissant (Dhs23), were all standout.

A special mention should be given to the baristas at bkry, for their care and attention to mixology magic.

Sweet milkshakes that taste like melted strawberry ice cream, creamy coffees that are made with love, and even if you don’t like matcha, order the iced matcha and let it change your life.

bkry, Alserkal Avenue, Warehouse 76, Al Quoz, daily 8am to 10pm.

@bkry.space

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

If you want to eat a croissant, go to a place that sells croissants (bkry), and eat a croissant. Leave your calorie counting at the door.

Words: Laura Coughlin

REVIEW:

JARA BY MARTÍN BERASATEGUI

Dreaming of a San Sebastián summer holiday? A visit here could be the next best thing

In the culinary world, the name Martín Berasategui carries a weight that few others can match. Part of the Basque region’s culinary royalty, this celebrated chef’s restaurants have amassed an astounding 12 Michelin Stars, with his eponymous venue in San Sebastian earning each of its three through modern twists on classic Basque dishes, crafted with the flair of a true artist.

Jara, Berasategui’s latest venture in Dubai, is an exciting and unique addition to the city’s gastronomic landscape. As the first Basque restaurant in Dubai, Jara promises to bring the essence of Basque cuisine to the region.

Design-wise, Jara is flawless. The bespoke interior design offers a rich colour palette of striking velvet greens and deep browns, creating an inviting ambiance that perfectly complements the bold, sharing-centric menu. The tables for two,

with seats curved in so both diners can overlook the Downtown skyline, have to be some of the most coveted and romantic pews in the city. But the beating heart is undoubtedly the open-plan kitchen, where clay-pit ovens conjure up charcoal-grilled meats and succulent seafood.

The Cantabrian anchovy duo (Dhs90), served in olive oil on brioche and crystal bread, is a brilliant mouthful: salty, sweet, and umami-rich, with the bare-knuckle punch of the anchovies balanced by the toasty bread beneath. The tomato tartare with stracciatella (Dhs80), a blend of fresh and dried tomatoes, is equally impressive,

showcasing the chef’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into something worth writing home about.

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

Impressive views and seriously good ingredients –the perfect romantic night out

As we indulge in the slow-cooked Spanish baby lamb shoulder (Dhs375), finished in the clay oven, then gently carved tableside, the rich, gamey flavours transport us back to Spain. And when the Basque cheesecake (Dhs90) arrives, its creamy, light, and soft texture is the perfect finale to an exceptional dining experience.

Sitting at our cosy table for two, we can’t help but feel besotted by it all. Even the parade of suited-and-booted floor staff, who enthusiastically declare everything “amazing,” can’t dampen our enthusiasm, for we really can’t disagree. Jara is a triumph.

18th Floor, The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, 6pm to midnight, Tues to Sun. Tel: (0)4 541 7755. @jarabymartinberasatuegui

SWEET EXPECTATIONS

Close out your meal with one of these not-to-bemissed desserts

It’s easy to fill up on starters and pass on the sweet stuff when out for a meal. And truth be told, that’s usually not a bad call because desserts can sometimes be an afterthought for certain chefs and restaurants. However, the venues below devote as much care and creativity to the end of the meal as they do to the start. This month’s mission? Head on a dessert safari and gobble up these What’s On faves…

Tiramisu at Polline

Price: Dhs47

Tiramisu is as omnipresent on Italian menus as pasta. And just like pasta, not all tiramisu is equal. A recent What’s On fave was found at cosy new homegrown spot Polline, owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Nadine & Omar Basiony. Omar, a professional chef, has been in the industry for more than 20 years and has worked in many of the city’s top dining destinations. At Polline, he whips up a pitch-perfect tiramisu where every ingredient is made from scratch in-house from the Savoiardi biscuits to the rich mascarpone, made daily with fresh local milk and cream. To add an element of crunch, they top the tiramisu with a crumble of their homemade almond biscotti and a generous shaving of rich dark chocolate. Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 3, daily 7.30am to 10pm. Tel: (0)4 328 8930. @pollinedxb

Words: Laura Coughlin

Whipped Burnt Cheesecake at Rare

Price: Dhs58

Cool new City Walk brasserie Rare is already famous for its charcoal-cooked cuts (naturally), its impressive cocktail collection and its luscious, meal-ending cheesecake. While you might think you feel too full after a gigantic meal at this slick steakhouse, you’ll get a second wind when confronted with a bowl of silky smooth whipped burnt cheesecake with grilled peaches, layered with a crunchy salted almond crumble and ginger snap. Divine. City Walk, Dubai, Sun to Thur noon to 1am, Fri and Sat noon to 2am. Tel: (0)4 287 4604. @theraredxb

Baked Alaska at Jun’s

Price: Dhs55

Back by popular demand at What’s On, award-winning restaurant Jun’s is another helping of chef Kelvin Cheung’s fantastic baked Alaska tiramisu mochi and hot chocolate mocha, and we’re here for it. Audible oohs and ahhs echo from tables whenever the mini baked Alaskas arrive. Kelvin’s creation brings together espresso ice cream, brown butter semifreddo and sesame peanut mochi to create a hug on a plate.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, daily noon to 1am. Tel: (0)4 457 6035. @junsdubai

Dulche de Leche Fondant at Sucre

Price: Dhs75

Following an indulgent feast of South American, Italian and Spanish specialities at trendy Sucre, you might as well go all the way and dive straight into the restaurant’s signature dulce de leche fondant. With fried pecans and vanilla ice cream – it’s just the thing to finish out the night.

Podium level, Gate Village 5, DIFC, Mon to Sat noon to 4pm and 6pm to 2am. Tel: (0)4 340 0829. @sucredubai

Churros at Lila Wood-Fired Taqueria

Price: Dhs40

Deep-fried dough, sugar, chocolate. What’s not to like? But at Lila, their famous churros (served with an order of three) are given an extra lick of love served with house made salted caramel sauce or UAE bean-to-bar brand Mirzam chocolate’s dipping sauce. Ask nicely, and you might get both… 786 Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Seqeim 3, Jumeirah, Sun, Tue, Wed, Thur noon to 10pm, Fri and Sat noon to 11pm. Tel: (0)4 282 0005. @lilataqueria

Fluido at StreetXO

Price: Dhs75

Sour Cherry Phyllo Pie at 21grams

Price: Dhs50

Pie is one of the greatest and most diverse foods known to man. Want to make fruit better? Put it in a flaky pie crust. Case in point: 21grams’ lip-puckering sour cherry phyllo pie. Lovingly made fresh daily by a resident Balkan native, each decadent bite tastes exactly how a pie should: comforting, nourishing, and just a little bit sharp. It’s probably the city’s most famous pie – beloved by locals, residents and restaurant critics alike. Meyan Mall, Second Floor, Al Thanya Street, Umm Suqeim 2, Mon to Wed 8am to 5pm, Thur to Sun 8am to 11pm. Tel: (0)50 841 5021. @21grams.dubai

Named the World’s Best Chef in 2023 (The Best Chef Awards), Madrid native Dabiz Muñoz set tongues wagging when he opened his boundary-pushing restaurant StreetXO in the One&Only One Za’abeel at the start of the year. It’s only natural then that one of his puddings makes up our round up of new desserts you need to eat right now. With seven glorious offerings, it’s the Fluido that has garnered rave reviews across the city. It features a white chocolate and egg yolk lava cake paired with a delightful Tom Kha ice cream and coconut crumble, offering a sensational play of textures and temperatures. Level 4, One&Only One Za’abeel, daily 6pm to 12am. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @streetxo.dubai

JULY 2024

What’s Trending:

THE DRINK

It’s been all over everybody’s social media and for good reason. The venue itself is very aesthetically pleasing with its minimalistic vibes. It’s bakers are working away tirelessly to make those perfect little pastries you see all over. But if you order only one thing from bkry, let it be from their drinks menu. The rosa, priced at Dhs36, is an incredible experience, the drink is pretty and pink and when you sip it you will quite literally feel like you’ve just taken a gulp of a melted strawberry ice cream. @bkry.space

THE WORKSHOP

Workshops are in. From glass blowing to champagne tasting. But if you take one workshop this month, it has to be the pasta making workshop at Sagra Italian Pastifico. The homely little restaurant in Jumeirah offers bi-weekly pasta making courses where you will knead, roll and fold your very own pasta, which you can then take home and cook.

The workshop is priced at Dhs250 per person and includes a delicious taste of Sagra’s fresh homemade pastas. @sagra.dubai

THE SALON

Ladies, this one is for you. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop where you can relax, rejuvenate and get involved in a little bit

of retail therapy

then And 14 in Festival City Mall is the one for you. Homegrown and woman-owned, you can get hair treatments, facial massages that naturally lift your face, waxing and full body massages. After your treatment, the front of the salon doubles as a retail space where owner Aniqha sells her sister’s batik fashion and crockery as well as her mother’s gorgeous kaftans. @and14.ae

THE ACTIVITY

This year has a lot in store for Dubai foodies, so we’ve broken it down with a month-by-month guide to what’s trending and what’s not. From the dishes you should be eating to the places you should be staying…

What’s (NOT) Trending:

NOT OFFERING MOCKTAILS

There’s yet another new indoor entertainment venue that has opened its doors just in time for the summer season. Tiger Strikes has it all –bowling, darts, pool and even an indoor cricket simulator and it is strictly adults only. Sounds like a good time to us. @tigerstrikes.dxb

THE SNACK

Did we mention it was summer and it’s hot? We have to keep cool somehow and ice cream is quite possibly the best way to do so. Crème, a London export, not only makes outstanding cookies but their classic soft serve with cookie crumble has got to be at the top of our snacking list for the summer months. Imagine biting into a Malteser but instead, you’re eating a malt-flavoured ice cream with chunks of cookies mixed in. Do we need to say any more?

@cremelondonuae

When you get together with friends at a happy hour or on a ladies’ night, nothing is more grating than when a bar or restaurant doesn’t include any sort of non-alcoholic drink in the list of drinks included in the deal. Just because we’re going dry on this occasion, doesn’t mean we don’t want to party and enjoy the night. This is also a note to say, that grenadine and Sprite does not a mocktail make. Get creative and flaunt those mixology skills – a mocktail can taste good and still have no alcohol in it. That is all.

FORCED FUN

It doesn’t take much for us here at What’s On HQ to have a good time, throw on some Natasha Bedingfield or any other throwback track and we have got the party started. But one thing that simply won’t slide is forced fun. Forcing the staff in restaurants to get up on tables and pretend “sporadically” throughout the night that they’re having the time of their lives and by default, we should be too – is not the vibe.

NOVEL IDEAS

From heart string-yanking memoirs to seductive romantic page-turners, the What’s On team have got a need this summer, a need to read. This is your invitation to join our beach wear book club, and find out What’s On our essential vacation reads list.

Alice HolthamPargin Group Editor

Excessively Obsessed, Natasha Oakley

I’m ashamed to admit that my typical summer books to take to the beach are easyread, predictable ending romance novels by authors like Emily Henry and Carly Fortune. Mostly because I like to go back to it after a day or two and not have completely forgotten where I left off. But for my European adventures this summer, I’m packing Excessively Obsessed, the empowering book for entrepreneurs by Natasha Oakley. The Monday Swimwear founder has penned her guide to reaching your own goals and stepping out of your comfort zone, both high on my 2024 agenda.

Dhs100, amazon.ae

Miles Buckeridge Deputy Editor

Meditations, Marcus Aurelius Nothing says captivating ‘holiday read’ like a treatise on metaphysics and the nature of existence by a Roman emperor who’s been dead for nearly two thousand years. Yep, I’m that fun at parties. I must have read it 12 or 13 times in the past, but I will never be done with what the Philosopher King’s Meditations has to teach me. It’s essentially a collection of his thoughts, a stream of stoic consciousness that is so infinitely dense with relevant mantra that it probably registers as having tangible mass. Reading it in a relaxed setting, with time for the mind to wander, amplifies its centring effects, but don’t take my word for it, as old mate Marcus says “Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.” Dhs30, amazon.ae

Dinesh Ramanathan Deputy Editor

I am Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Lagercrantz and Zlatan Ibrahimovic Absolutely worth a re-read. I first read Ibra’s autobiography a decade ago and was very fascinated with everything it packed. Learn more about one of the greatest footballers in history, who’s lived his life and career as a brash, outspoken, walk-the-talk persona, putting critics in their place and racking up records like nobody’s business. Notable things you’d want to look out for include his career-defining relationship with super-agent Mino Raiola, how he first met his wife Helena after blocking her off in traffic, and misadventures from his childhood in Malmo. There might also be a couple mentions in there about how he made the bicycle kick his signature move. Enjoy. Dhs55, amazon.ae

Aarti Saundalkar Online Reporter

Jo van Gogh-Bonger: The Woman who Made Vincent Famous, Hans Luijten

I have an entire bookcase dedicated to just my art books, and one I can’t wait to dive into before my Amsterdam vacation in September is this eye-opener by Hans Luijten. Little is known about Johanna van Gogh-Bonger who made Van Gogh THE Van Gogh, but this book showcases how she took charge of the artist’s legacy and devoted her life after her husband’s (Theo, Van Gogh’s brother) death to spreading his name and work. From navigating a male-dominated art world to publishing his letters, organising exhibitions in The Netherlands, and making strategic sales, this book is an informative biography, giving a muchneeded voice to the dedicated woman who introduced the world to the greatest painter of all time. Dhs85, amazon.ae

Tamara Wright Online Reporter

Against The Loveless World, Susan Abulhawa

Like many watching the ongoing horror in Palestine through a screen, I’ve felt a range of emotions, from anger to helplessness. Now more than ever, it’s important to dig deeper, educate ourselves on the history of the situation, and to shed a light on Palestinian voices. From the author of the international bestselling book Mornings in Jenin comes Against the Loveless World. This fictiongrounded-in-reality novel offers a unique, compelling perspective through the lens of Nahr, a female Palestinian refugee. It’s an eye-opening, heartbreaking, and gripping read. Based on interviews conducted by Abulhawa, who was born in Kuwait after her family suffered the first Nakba, the book sheds light on the enduring resilience and suffering of the Palestinian people. You’ll be glad you’re wearing your sunnies, that’s all I can say.

Dhs54, uae.kinokuniya.com

The Bronze Horseman, Paullina Simons

First, a before-you-read warning, this isn’t an easy book to read – I glide through the pages because it is such a gripping book. But it isn’t easy. This romantic novel follows the love story of Tatiana and Alexander in 1941 Leningrad, Soviet Union as the German army advances through the country on a war path. It’s heartbreaking at times, hearing about the hardships that Tatiana and her family have to endure during the harsh cold winter without heating, or food supplies, while Alexander is away fighting in the war. I will not spoil too much, but the tears I shed and the laughs I have let out reading this book every year say it all. It’s a special book to me as it is one that my mother and I try to read annually – so there’s also sentimental value. I forgot to mention, it’s a trilogy of about 900 pages per book – settle in for a long but beautiful ride. Dhs100, amazon.ae

The Namesake, Jhumpa Lahiri

This one has been on my list for a while now and the hope is that I’ll get around to reading it this summer. Being a somewhat confused third-culture kid, stories of immigrants, especially stories of Indian immigrants trying to find their place in a foreign land, really resonate with me. The Namesake is one such story of a Bengali family settled in America and what a generational gap entails. Being in the Middle East, I never had the kind of struggle that the protagonists of a lot of these stories do, living in a far more alienating era of the West, but grappling with a diluted understanding of your cultural self is still a universal tale, and writers like Jhumpa Lahiri speak my written language – real, grounded, human and full of heart. In the future, when I have a bestselling book on the shelf, that’s what I want it to emulate.

Dhs38, amazon.ae

Shelby Gee Junior Reporter

Manaal Fatimah Junior Reporter

ART

| THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC

CULTURE // UAE MOSQUES

Words: Tamara Wright

THE UAE’S MOST BEAUTIFUL MOSQUES

Experience the rich culture, breathtaking architecture, and fascinating history of the UAE with a visit to one of these stunning mosques, welcoming both Muslims and non-Muslims…

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

Al Noor Mosque, Sharjah

Al Noor Mosque is Sharjah’s only mosque that is open to non-Muslims with free one-hour tours at 10am every Monday and Thursday. Dominating the emirate’s skyline and overlooking Khalid Lagoon, the mosque has a classic Ottoman design with 34 domes and the interior of the mosque is etched with intricate calligraphy of verses from the Holy Quran. As a popular tourist destination, the mosque offers free traditional Emirati dress upon entry as well as Arabic coffee or gahwa.

The largest mosque in the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is easily one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. With a total of 82 domes, over 1,000 columns and surrounded by reflective pools, just the sight of the mosque takes your breath away. From marbled halls to gold-plated chandeliers, mosaic artwork to amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns, the place of worship is a sight to behold. Sheikh Zayed Mosque was the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan –the Founding Father of the UAE. Its open-door policy welcomes visitors from all over the world and up to 50,000 worshippers daily.

Grand Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai

The Grand Jumeirah Mosque first opened back in 1979 and was a gift from the Late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai and father of the current Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This architectural treasure has grown to be one of the emirates’ most loved cultural landmarks for its interactive Open Doors Open Minds programme. Located in Jumeirah 1, the mosque is open to the public at 10am and 2pm every day except Fridays. The 75-minute tour costs Dhs35 per person and comes with light Emirati refreshments at the majlis before the programme starts so be sure to get there early for registration.

Iranian Mosque, Dubai

Abrahamic Family House, Abu Dhabi

A symbol of togetherness and tolerance. Saadiyat Island’s Abrahamic Family House is an interfaith complex made up of three different places of worship: Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque, St. Francis Church, and Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue. Elegant and minimalistic, the mosque’s exterior is made up of seven arches, reflecting the importance of the number seven in Islam. In addition to the three individual sites of worship, there are communal areas such as the serene and reflective peace garden. To make the most out of the experience, book online in advance to secure yourself one of the expert ‘storytellers’. Entry is free of charge.

Al Bidya Mosque, Fujairah

On the road between Dibba and Khorfakkan lies the oldest standing mosque in UAE: Al Bidya Mosque. Built from mud and stone, the ancient religious building is still in use and is recognised by UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its unique architecture, with four domes instead of one, and archaeological carvings. The small prayer room can accommodate up to 70 people.

Not too many people know about this beautiful mosque, but you might be lucky enough to stumble upon it while wandering around the area near the Textile Souk. Also known as the Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque, the building is adorned with intricate blue tiles. It’s one of two ornately decorated Iranian mosques in Dubai – the other, Imam Hussein Mosque, is located in Satwa.

Words: Manaal Fatimah

Picture this…

These shutterbugs dish on why they love capturing the UAE

In the UAE, the practice of visual storytelling is a labour of love and coursing with curiosity, for here, the landscape hides many secrets and the promise of striking contrast found in few other countries. These UAE-based photographers tell us all about why their lens loves this land.

Travelling through time

“It’s been incredible to witness the transformation over the past decade. When you look at my early photos, the skyline and landscape are vastly different compared to today. The UAE is an incredible blend of modernity and tradition,” says Mo Azizi (@alphaspotting), who’s been capturing the UAE since 2015.

From sand to skyscrapers

“This place is a photographer’s paradise,” says Vishnu Ramachandran (@vishnu.ae). “I mean where else would you find a diverse and dynamic place with serene deserts, unique architecture, skyscrapers, wadis, mangroves, salt lakes, mountains, events and festivals? It’s a visual feast.”

Home, by choice

What’s interesting about the photography community is the number of expatriate lenses you’ll come across. Ramchandran is from Kerala, and Azizi is from Iran. Zohaib Anjum (@vertigodubai), perhaps known to you as the Storm Chaser, whose perfectly fated shots of the local rarity that is a rainstorm, comes from Pakistan.

Chasing storms

Unlike the other two, Anjum has a speciality – the storm. He traverses across the length and breadth of the UAE to capture this powerful phenomenon, made all the more electric by its rarity. “Capturing dramatic weather events, such as sandstorms sweeping across the desert or rare rainstorms transforming the urban landscape, adds an element of dynamic intensity.”

CAMERA ROLL SCROLL…

Take a peek into their albums

Ramachandran’s lens loves: If my camera could speak, it would definitely start with the architectures, cityscapes and recently a lot of street photography!

Azizi’s lens loves: The towering skyscrapers dominating the skyline, the delightful sunny weather, the desert dunes and in old Dubai, the charm of traditional architecture and winding streets.

Anjum’s lens loves: The sleek lines of Dubai’s skyscrapers, especially the Burj Khalifa, juxtaposed with the serene, golden dunes, as well as bustling souks to majestic mosques.

Words: Miles Buckeridge and Manaal Fatimah

SUN SCREENINGS

A look at the biggest indie and blockbuster releases this summer

For deputy editor Miles, summer at the cinema is blockbuster season –GDP sized budgets, slow walks away from explosions, maverick cops, and comic strip villains. Reporter Manaal shows us that summer movies can have a more cerebral side. She presents a world of independent productions offering challenging themes, studied performances and the minutiae of human relationships.

BLOCKBUSTERS

Twisters

Releasing: July

When Twister, a natural disaster-based action thriller written by Michael Crichton, made landfall in 1993, it resulted in more of a bluster, than hurricane forced box office receipts. Which makes it a strange study for a 30year age gap (stand alone) sequel. But the outlook isn’t all gloomy. The helmsman behind the masterful Minari, Lee Isaac Chung is an intriguingly

leftfield choice for director, and cast leads Daisy ‘Crawdads’ Edgar-Jones and Glen ‘Top Gun’ Powell are certainly part of Hollywood’s rising star academy. They play a pair of storm chasers from contrasting orthodoxies (and according to the golden rules of cinema are therefore all but guaranteed a romantic spark), drawn to the eye of the tornado by forces within. And despite the fact CGI will have to do some, quite literal, heavy lifting in the film, Chung’s insistence on realism means we’re in for some epic action sequences. I think audiences could be ready to Twister again.

The Bikeriders

Releasing: Out now Inspired by true events, based around a 1967 photo-book, and starring Jodie ‘Villanelle’ Comer, Austin ‘still sounds like Elvis’ Butler, Tom ‘born in the dark’ Hardy, Michael ‘Zod’ Shannon, and Norman ‘the crossbow’ Reedus, the story shines a light on “the golden age of bikeriders”. A ride-or-die family of chopper throttling ne’er-do-wells that operate criminal rackets with a famously blood-soaked moral code. Directed by Jeff ‘Mud’ Nichols we’re expecting to see themes of loyalty, brotherhood, and the perilous penalties for rage-quitting bike club.

Deadpool & Wolverine

Releasing: July

This third installment of the Ryan Reynolds Deadpool anti-hero vehicle, will be the first time the titular character appears under the official MCU umbrella. But Disney seem to be quite happy to let much of what led to the success of the two previous movies remain. It has retained its R-Rating (making it the first MCU film with that classification) and so too the humour and violence that necessitate that. Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine has been unretired, and will appear in a yellow and blue suited homage to the classic animated X-Men series, setting up a duel of truly Adamantian proportions. The trailer teases some trademark timeline tinkering, care of the Time Variance Authority (TVA), which means we’re likely to see more rapid fire canon ball cameos from Marvel stars past, present and hypothetical.

Borderlands

Releasing: August

“Based on a video game”. Five words that used to strike fear into the hearts of film and gaming fans alike. Things have certainly levelled up in recent years with select on-screen adaptations (The Last of Us, Fallout, and Werewolves Within) receiving critical and audience acclaim. The predictable consequence of this, is a production line acceleration of game-to-show reworkings, and the latest conveyor belt drop is Borderlands. A game of such gratuitous, gun-based violence – it could solicit a response of ‘steady on there’ from a section of Second Amendment lobbyists. It’s directed by ‘Splat Pack’ member Eli Roth, and stars Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, Ariana Greenblatt, and Jack Black. Expect a big body count, pistol whip comedy, and an outmanned, and outgunned distressed damsel rescue quest.

Alien: Romulus

Releasing: August

The seventh film in the interstellar Giger horror-fest franchise is set chronologically at some point between Alien and Aliens. Details on the plot are scant, but these films rarely stray too far from the core theme: intrepid explorers inspecting a malfunctioning space station/ship/ outpost have their routine maintenance work interrupted by muderous, orally-fixated Xenomorphs. It’s directed by series debutant Fede “Evil Dead” Álvarez, is produced by series sire Ridley Scott, and stars a cast of talented up and comers. Does the title ‘Romulus’ reveal any clues about the plot? If it’s not just the arbitrary name of the space station/ship/outpost, the most famous Romulus was one half of the Mythological pair of brothers who built Rome. He then killed his brother, and lived on as a fabled emperor. Which practically screams ‘we’ve met the queen, now we’re going to meet the alien king’. Sadly, in space, nobody can hear you scream.

INDIE CINEMA

All We Imagine As Light

Releasing: October

Payal Kapadia’s All We Imagine As Light has generated quite the buzz recently, mostly for the splash it made at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. It’s the first film from India to compete in the main competition since 1994, when Shaji N Karun’s Swaham made similar headlines, but in the year 2024, the Indians took home the Grand Prix trophy. Set in the pulsating noise of Mumbai, one of India’s most densely populated, fast-paced and metropolitan cities, it follows two Malayali nurses navigating troubled personal lives. Prabha and Anu are stood at different stages in their relationships, but they move parallel to each other in their womanhood. A holiday to a quaint beach town will bring change and perhaps newfound freedom.

Daddio

Releasing: Out now

Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn aren’t exactly known for their glowing work in the world of intellectual, independent cinema, but this may be a turning point for them. The plot is simple – a woman lands at JFK and later, hails a taxi to get to her apartment in Manhattan. During their journey together into the night, the woman, who we know as Girlie, strikes up a most unexpected conversation with the cab driver, Clark, eventually revealing to him the bad decisions she’s made in her life, including her affair with a married man. Clark reciprocates her candour and opens up about his own life. At the end of the epic ride, a belief is reinforced – there isn’t anything like the freeing honesty of a stranger’s company, with no strings attached and no accountability.

A Different Man

Releasing: September

Sebastian Stan stars in this psychological drama about a man suffering from an illness who undergoes a dramatic transformation but his internal turmoil only increases despite how desperate he was for the change. Edward has neurofibromatosis, which has left his face covered in tumours. He wants to change for his neighbour, Ingrid, who he has fallen in love with, and hopes his love will be reciprocated. The experimental medical procedure is successful, but what are the consequences? Edward is a different man, but is it only on the surface? Questions are asked about perception and perspective, our own and outside, and how much we align with the mask we all wear in our everyday lives. It may make you uncomfortable, but this introspection is essential.

Between The Temples

Releasing: August

Of all the unlikely romances, this is one to watch. Ben is many things, a widower, the cantor of his Upstate New York synagogue and a disconnected man in a crisis of his faith. When he crosses paths with Carla, his former teacher and Bat Mitzvah enthusiast looking to redeem her lost teenage experience, he never expects to fall in love with her. Their connection, unexpected, tender, moving along by the very much alive and beating heart of their collective pain, is portrayed in all it’s subtle beauty by Jason Schwartzman and Carol Kane. A quiet strength and a simmering desire that uplifts their shared moments of sharp humour and deep sorrow, this is a real love story, marred, marked and beaten down by the realities of life and the finality of tragedy, but beautiful and blossoming still.

TRIED & TESTED

Summer skincare SOS

Take a deeper look at your skin - and how to treat it - at Evolution Aesthetics...

Whether you’re staying in Dubai or travelling this summer, chances are you’ll need to give your skin a little extra TLC. As the heat increases and we dash between AC and the scorching outdoors in Dubai, hydration and sun protection are paramount. For those jetting off for sun-soaked shores abroad, the tolls of travelling can leave skin looking a little fatigued.

With my own summer plans a mix of the two, I decided it was high time to put my skin in the hot seat with an appointment at Evolution Aesthetics, a one-stop-shop for all things health, beauty and skincare, in Jumeirah 3. The clinic, the brainchild of expert cosmetologist Tamara Bigaeva, is known for bringing cutting-edge technologies to Dubai. So, it felt like a great place to start with giving my skin what it needed.

The space is light and bright, having transformed a whitewashed villa into a split-level clinic where treatment rooms offer everything from facials and peels, to IV drips, laser hair removal, and even body contouring.

I start my own journey with a consultation with Dr Anna, who invites me to take a deeper look at my skin’s current condition using the Janus Pro 3D skin analysis, something provided as part of all skincare consultations (skincare consultations are Dhs500, or free if you

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin

book a treatment from the consultation). You place your face into the machine at three different angles, and with a simple flash of a light, it’s identified your skin type, reviewed your pigment, and measured the oil and moisture content of your skin. It’s fascinating to watch as Dr Anna talks through the areas where I’ve got the most pigmentation, shows me how my low moisture levels are causing high production of oil, and shows me which areas of my face are seen to be aging fastest. While I’m relieved that the machine concludes that my skin age is 30 (my actual age), with skin texture of a 36-year-old, I’m looking to turn back a few years.

With low moisture levels detected, Dr Anna recommends a Profhilo (Dhs2,000 per session). For those, like myself, not phased by needle treatments, this is a high-impact moisture boost that uses pure hyaluronic acid to stimulate production of collagen and elastin. Dr Anna adds five boosts on either side of my face, working from the edge of the mouth to cheekbone in a quick, neat line that come with a little discomfort, but no pain. The whole thing takes around 20 minutes, and the resulting look is a rejuvenated and tighter looking skin that I notice right away. In the days that follow, I notice a brighter complexion too, with Dr Anna advising that the best results are seen after 10 days. I know best results come from a course of two or three sessions, so after a month, I’ll definitely be back.

Evolution Aesthetics Clinic, 49 Umm Al Sheif Road, Jumeirah 3, daily 9am to 9pm. Tel: (0)4 706 5000. @evoclinicdubai

Words: Laura Coughlin

CRANKING IT UP

Nuno Costa, the co-founder of hit spin studio CRANK, chats exclusively to What’s On about opening his third fitness studio in the UAE

Nuno, you’ve just announced your third CRANK studio in the UAE, congratulations! What inspired you to choose the location for this new space? Thank you so much! It’s really exciting. We have two studios in well-known landmarks, both in Dubai (Alserkal Avenue) and Abu Dhabi (Shaikha Fatima Park). We felt it was time to expand our brand into a neighbourhood in the suburbs of Dubai where there are many residents who don’t have access to boutique fitness studios, and so we are opening in the amazing community of Town Square! Given our strong community focus, it makes perfect sense for us.

CRANK has become a well-known brand in the UAE fitness scene. Did you ever imagine it would grow this big when you first started?

To be honest, I never envisioned making a career in the fitness industry when I first started out. Becoming a co-founder of CRANK was never part of my initial plan. But with the amazing team we have and how hard everyone works, it makes sense that CRANK is a big brand, and we’ll keep on growing.

What sets CRANK apart from other boutique studios/gyms in the region? For us, three factors set us apart. First, our approach to classes is the closest to a nightclub experience you can find in the market. We were the first studio in the region to introduce lights and a state-of-the-art sound system in fitness

“WE ARE OPENING IN THE AMAZING COMMUNITY OF TOWN SQUARE!”

classes, it’s something that we are really known for. Second, our strong community feel and the efforts we make to keep our CRANKsters happy, from outdoor events to themed classes. We are a team of truly “people’s people”. There won’t be a day where you won’t feel welcome here. And thirdly, our great team environment, which is essential in fitness. You need a team where people respect and care for each other. We are so lucky to have an ego free team where everyone wants each other to succeed. We all take each other’s classes, share music, and team teach with each other. Your vibe definitely attracts your tribe, and that’s why we have such a great community.

When are you planning to open and can you share any exciting features or unique offerings that the new studio will have?

We aim to open by the end of the year. We’ll be offering our signature RIDE and SHAPE classes, but we’re also launching a new class. This workout will be fun and unique, but I can’t give any more details for now (sorry!). What I will say is our instructors cannot wait to teach it!

What are your future plans for CRANK? Are there any new locations or ventures on the horizon?

In the UAE, we plan to keep growing and expanding. We’ve opened three studios in just six years, which shows great sustained growth. We would also love to expand internationally and have launched a franchise programme, which is explained ini more detail on our website.

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey with CRANK so far? Many things, but mainly seeing a brand start from absolutely nothing and witnessing its growth. Doing this alongside amazing people makes it even more special.

Tell us a fun fact about the CRANK brand that most people might not know.

The name CRANK didn’t come easily. I initially wanted to call it Cloud 9 to reflect the feeling you’d have after a class. Myself, Sami, Ken and Kourosh (my business partners) decided to take a vote and CRANK was the best name we came up with. Now, I can’t imagine it being called anything else.

When you’re not at the studio, what’s your favourite way to unwind and stay active?

Going for a nice walk with my wife, Holly, and our dog, Chapo. In a couple of months, we will have a new addition to the family as we are expecting a baby boy. I’m looking forward to having the fourth

element with us, and potentially another CRANK instructor in the making.

What’s your go-to playlist for a highenergy spin class? Any favourite tracks you always include?

I love to include EDM and drum and bass tracks in all my classes. I have many favourite tracks, but Swedish House Mafia are my all-time favourites! If I had to choose one song to play in class, it would probably be the famous Greyhound track, which was the song we used to test the sound system in our first ever studio, it will never get old.

@crank.uae

Words: Miles Buckeridge

SHAPE AND ESCAPE

Escape rooms that give you a workout, whilst you’re working out the clues...

Time is a precious commodity, so any hacks that streamline the never-ending to-do list are holistic gold dust. We present to you the workout x leisure pursuit collab, escape rooms that put your mind and body on the treadmill of fun times. All the gains, less of the pain.

TepFactor

This JBR adventuretainment facility operates as a series of challenge rooms, each making their own unique demands on your brain, brawn, patience, fitness, logic, skill and ability to work as a team. There are 21 conundrums to unravel within the artificial cave network – and teams of two-to-six players can take as long as they want, with as many tries as they want (it’s charged by the hour) to beat them, but, Pro Tep: keep an eye on the time if you want to climb the leaderboard.

Bahar Plaza, JBR, Dubai, Mon to Thurs 12pm to 10pm, Fri to Sun 12am to 12pm, adults Dhs99. tepfactor.ae

BlackOut Escape Rooms

One of the keys to making sure you’re on track with your exercise goal is keeping that heart rate in the training zones. Something, the absolutely harrowing BlackOut Escape Games, is only too happy to oblige with. Want to play a game? The centre offers multiple puzzle quests, each with their own fiendishly conceived mysteries loosely themed around horror movies and a cast of live actors

cranking the intensity of the scare lair up to 11.

KML Building, Al Meydan Rd, Al Quoz, daily 10am to 2am, Dhs220 per person. @blackoutbycave

Prison Island (Sharjah)

Your opportunity to live out those Prison Break fantasies awaits in City Center Al Zahia Sharjah. Here, a series of Crystal Maze-style escape rooms require you to flex your muscles, brain and problem solving skills in an effort to ‘Beat the Bars’. Just

remember the five Prison Island ‘Cs’ – crawl, cardio, clamber, communicate with your team, and cheat whenever the guards aren’t looking. Inmate, you have your orders.

City Center Al Zahia Sharjah, 10am to 10pm Mon to Weds, 10am to 12am Thur to Sun, from Dhs125. prisonisland.ae

Impossible Mission at Phobia Dubai

No idea what IP they could be suggesting with this title, but the Impossible Mission escape room at Phobia Dubai offers your team of two-to-six players the chance to make like Com Truise and pull-off a high stakes art heist. The mission, if you choose to accept it, will test your timing, dexterity, and deciphering skills – as you race against a 60-minute countdown.

JLT, Red Diamond building, daily 11am to 11pm, from Dhs160, teams two to six. phobia.ae

Images: Provided

Impossible Mission at Phobia Dubai

BlackOut Escape Rooms

TepFactor

Prison Island (Sharjah)

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin

SPA DAYS

Switch off and bliss out with these summer spa day deals, which often include a choice of treatment, lunch or afternoon tea, and sometimes even a pool day…

Blended Wellness

Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, Sofitel Dubai

The Palm Resort

A Polynesian-French tropical paradise of pampering on Palm Jumeirah, Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane is a calming space that invites ladies to unwind and relax with a ladies’ day deal every Tuesday. On the treatment front, you’ll start the day with a 45-minute back, neck and shoulder massage, or a 45-minute foot and leg message. Then you can enjoy all of the spa facilities, including the sauna, steam, hydropool and plunge pool until 5pm. Also included, you’ll get a refreshing mocktail and healthy snack. It’s Dhs499.

Sofitel SPA with L’Occitane, Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort, 10am to 5pm, Tuesdays, Dhs499. Tel: (0)4 455 6677. @sofiteldubaipalm

The home of all things beauty, fitness and wellness on the Palm Jumeirah, it’s hard to put Blended Wellness in just one box. When you’re looking for a relaxing spot to get together with your besties, this is a top option, with a number of packages that combine spa facilities with fitness classes, lunch or pool days. With the Blended Beach Day, you’ll pay Dhs500 for a 60-minute signature massage and access to the relaxing salt cave. Then, you can head to The 305, a neighbouring beach club housed within The Club, for pool and beach access, plus a Dhs100 voucher to redeem on food and drink. If you want your relaxing daycay to include lunch, then book the Ula X Blended Escape, where for the same price you get a 60-minute massage, then a three-course lunch, two drinks and all-day pool and beach access at Ula. Blended Wellness, Dukes The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, daily 9am to 9pm, Dhs500. Tel: (0)4 423 8313. blendedwellness.com

ReFIVE, Five Palm Jumeirah

A hedonistic party pad on the trunk of The Palm might not seem like a typical spot for a pamper session, but FIVE Palm Jumeirah is no ordinary hotel. It just so happens to be home to one of the most contemporarily beautiful spas in the city, and offers a daily spa day deal that includes a treatment, lunch and beach access for Dhs399. You’ll get your glow on 45 minute massage or facial in one of the sumptuous treatment rooms, and enjoy access to the gorgeous spa facilities, which includes a rooftop pool that’s a more relaxed alternative to the hotel’s social party pool. There’s also lunch thrown in too, with the option to dine at all-day dining BLVD on One, Mediterranean tapas by the sea at Beach by FIVE or refined Italian, Cinque. ReFive, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, daily 10am to 10pm, Dhs399. Tel: (0)4 455 9964. palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com

Anantara Spa,

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, JBR

The grand and luxurious RitzCarlton Spa has a regal feel to it, set on the resort’s beachfront and housing a dozen treatment rooms, plus facilities like eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, an outdoor relaxation pool, plus hot and cold plunge pools. You’ll have access to all of them when you book a pampering spacation, which also comes with access to the resort’s pools and beach. Also included, you’ll get a 60-minute massage, then fuel up with a twocourse lunch at La Baie or afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, The RitzCarlton Dubai, JBR, 9am to 9pm daily, Dhs750 weekdays, Dhs850 weekends. Tel: (0)4 318 6521. @ritzcarltondubai

Saray Spa, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah

Embark on a day of pure bliss when you book a pampering day at Saray Spa at Marriott Resort Palm. Whether it’s a solo self-care day or you’re heading for a day out with the girls, this five-star stay on Palm West Beach has you covered. It starts with a 60-minute ‘All About You’ massage, which can be designed to suit your desired result, plus access to the extensive facilities including dry saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, ice station and relaxation lounges. Pre or posttreatment, you can soak up the sun at Bal Harbour Beach with complimentary beach access. Plus, there’s a Dhs150 voucher to spend on drinks and dining, perfect for fuelling up before or after your treatment. It’s Dhs599 Monday to Thursday, and Dhs699 Friday to Sunday.

Saray Spa, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Palm West Beach, spa 10am to 10pm, beach until sunset, Dhs599 Mon to Thurs, Dhs699 Fri and Sat. Tel: (0)4 666 1111. @marriottresortpalmjumeirah

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

A Thai-inspired paradise that overlooks the hotel’s inviting lagoon, treat yourself to an afternoon of relaxation and indulgence at the Anantara Spa. First up, it’s treatment time, with a choice of a 60-minute massage, facial or hammam in the fragrant surrounds of your treatment room. Then there’s a three-hour afternoon tea to enjoy, which features delicate sandwiches, mini-pastries and freshly baked scones. You can upgrade to include unlimited prosecco for three hours for an extra Dhs100 to add a little sparkle to your afternoon.

Anantara Spa, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, 10am to 2pm (spa) 2pm to 5pm (afternoon tea), Monday to Friday, Dhs550 or Dhs650 including Prosecco. Tel: (0)4 567 8140. anantara.com

Words:

Snow turns to shine in this prairie paradise…

Dinesh Ramanathan

WELCOME TO STAMPEDE CITY

Descend on the great white north after an eyereddening, transatlantic voyage that could take up the better part of a day, or more. This is the jewel of Western Canada – bound by the mighty Canadian Rockies, which you’ll see on any given day as your winter tires hug the city’s many trails, and with the Bow River’s fresh mountain water flowing through the city. Resent the cold all you want when you live here, but you’ll only realise what you’re missing after you leave.

This month, we bring you one of the most beautiful cities in the world – Calgary, Cow Town, Stampede City – home of the Flames and the Stampeders. This oil boomtown in the Canadian Prairies is a jewel nestled deep in North America, where temperatures plummet to bone-chilling depths of -40˚C and beyond in the winter. Want a white Christmas? Try an icy one.

But summer in Calgary, and in Canada, is a whole other affair. The sun’s out, and it stays up late, bathing the city’s skies in hues of vermillion, pink and orange as you’re just too reluctant to put away your barbecue grill. Swat mosquitoes all evening long, but you still won’t call it a night until the stars are out. Then, you’ll gaze at constellations with friends and family, wondering what good deeds you’ve done to live here.

Whether you’re traversing the city’s downtown core, walking through its Plus 15 pedestrian network, taking a leisurely stroll on Steven Avenue, or heading to the Beltline with the gang for a night out you may or may not remember, you’ll come out on the other side of your tryst with this gorgeous city eager to return.

3 MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

Calgary Tower: This iconic structure on the city’s skyline offers stunning views of the city and houses a revolving restaurant at the top. Located downtown on 9 Ave SW, make sure to stop by and take your time admiring the various quadrants and notable attractions of the city with a bird’s eye view. You might’ve climbed a tonne of towers prior, but none of them will offer you these views.

Jasper: A preferred camping spot and road trip destination of choice for Calgarians, Jasper is about five hours away from the city centre and one spot you must strike off your list when in Alberta. If you’re a fan of stargazing like we are (see our May 2024 issue), you’ll be pleased to learn that Jasper is the world’s second largest Dark Sky Preserve due to its minimal light pollution, which means you can see the stars sparkle brighter than you ever have.

Banff: Only about 90 minutes from Calgary, this is one of the best tourist towns in the world. Walk around downtown and pick up a trinket or two at the Indian Trading Post. Don’t miss Lake Louise, with its incredible turquoise waters perfect to boat in during summer, and the frozen lake giving you the opportunity to walk across it and build snowmen during winter.

5 GREAT SPOTS TO GET YOUR EATS IN

Northeast: Taketomi Village Chinese Cuisine

This one’s sort of a hidden gem that might well escape your Google radar, but NE residents will swear by their secret sauce. The great little Chinese eat packs everything you’d want, including flavour fusions, incredible sauces, sizzlers, seafood, fried fritters and more. After dark, it really takes on an LA-esque vibe, with dim-lit interiors and red lanterns adorning the space. taketomivillagerestaurant.com

Southeast: The Big Four Roadhouse

They call this city Little Texas for a reason, and eateries like these are only one of them. If you’re looking for good, Western-style eats, great cocktails and foot-stomping shows all under one roof, try The Big Four Roadhouse. The venue has hosted reputed musicians in the past such as Rise Against and A$AP Ferg, and things get to a whole new level during the Calgary Stampede. calgarystampede.com

Northwest: Casa Catrina

This newer addition to the local dining scene was introduced by hardworking Mexican residents with a penchant for hospitality. The Albas took their time opening the restaurant’s doors post-pandemic, paying close attention to the authentic Mexican décor, all specially flown up from Latin America. Spend time chatting with their bar staff and owners, who will be hard at work making sure you have the best time discovering their food, drink, desserts and ambiance in a gorgeous part of the city. casacatrina.ca

Southeast: The Ship & Anchor

If you’ve lived in Calgary longer than a week, chances are you’ve heard someone praise this joint. The Ship & Anchor is a low-key, laidback watering hole that’s earned its reputation over years of maintaining high standards. Their repeat business is no joke, as a legion of loyal patrons continues to flood the premises at every opportunity.

shipandanchor.com

Downtown Core: Charbar

One of the city’s best rooftop bars and eateries with unmatched views of the stunning cityscape and Bow River, is Charbar. Atop the iconic red-brick Simmons Building, perch up and feel the hours fly by as you soak in the sight of the rumbling C-Train. Watch people cruise by or motorcycles, skateboards, walking dogs and rollerblading. On the other side, you’ll see them kayak, or just float down the Bow, letting the much-cherished summer rays beat down on them gloriously. charbar.ca

THE GREATEST OUTDOOR SHOW ON EARTH: THE CALGARY STAMPEDE

If The Dukes of Hazzard was a notable part of your childhood, you’ll get the picture. The city of Calgary is a sea of Daisy Dukes, cowboy hats, leather boots and flannel for every July, as citizens, residents, repeat visitors and first-timers converge at Stampede Park for 10 days to participate in one of the most iconic celebrations of Western culture on the planet. The Calgary Stampede is over a century old and has endured two World Wars and The Great Depression, only pausing operations in the summer of 2020. Even so, the event pulled over 529,000 visitors in 2021, and regularly welcomes over a million Stampede-goers through its doors.

Here’s everything you need to look forward to at the 2024 edition:

The Stampede Parade

This annual tradition brings people together from all corners of the city and marks the official kickoff of the Stampede. The massive parade includes an entertaining display by a high-energy marching band, vivacious floats and a horde of horses leading proceedings.

The Rodeo

In addition to chuckwagon races, amusement park rides, innumerable carnival food options such as the Colossal Onion, corndog stalls and chips on sticks, the world-famous rodeo will be back to wow fans and introduce visitors to an authentic Western-style spectacle every afternoon and evening. Watch some of the toughest competitors in the sport tame their prancing

horses on the muddy Stampede grounds.

Music and Live Entertainment

Hold your horses. Actually, hold on to your hats. Better yet, do both at the Stampede this July because there’s an incredible line up of performers waiting to wow you.

July 5: Hometown star Tate McRae, whose hit single Greedy topped the charts and trended on Instagram only months ago, will perform at the Cowboys Music Festival.

July 7: Afraid of Heights rockers, Billy Talent will bring their high-energy hits to the Coca Cola stage.

July 10: Ne-Yo, who performed for the Abu Dhabi crowd last December will bring his signature pop and R’n’B tunes to The Big Four Roadhouse, as will indie rockers Metric at the Coca Cola Stage.

July 11: Heavy metal powerhouses Motley Crue will shake the Stampede grounds as the Saints of Los Angeles bring their roaring riffs and arenashaking vocals to Cow Town this year.

July 12: A host of country musicians will fittingly perform at the Nashville North tent, but one of the most notable country stars this summer is Miranda Lambert, who will perform at The Scotiabank Saddledome on Friday.

July 13: The Stampede celebrates diversity in more ways than one, and that will also be reflected in the musical genres on display at Stampede Park. Throw it back with the Jonas Brothers, as the boy band takes the stage on Saturday.

July 14: Rounding out this year’s entertainment extravaganza will be Canadian rockers Nickelback, on the final Sunday. Expect hits such as Burn It Down, Far Away, and Shaking Hands

WHAT TO ORDER

The Caesar: Calgary’s spin on the classic Bloody Mary cocktail, the drink was invented over 50 years ago by Walter Chell of the Calgary Inn, which is the Westin Hotel on 4 Ave. SW today.

WHAT TO BRING BACK HOME

Cowboy hats, leather boots, or anything shaped like either or both. You’ll have those and plenty more to get your hands on when you’re shopping for souvenirs at the Stampede grounds.

Happy Stampede!

Nickelback

Billy Talent

Motley Crue

Words: Miles Buckeridge

What A WONDER-FILLED WORLD

10 world wonders within a five-hour flight of the UAE

With thoughts of summer holidays seeping into our collective consciousness, bathed in the soothing scent of sunscreen, and financial recklessness, it felt like the perfect time to put together a list of some of the most inspiring, gawkworthy landmarks within easy reach of the UAE. These are some of the most beautiful natural and manmade places within a five-hour flight of the UAE.

The Rose Rock City of Petra, Jordan

How to get there: Wizz Air flies to Amman from Abu Dhabi, Emirates from Dubai. The flight time is around three-hours. You can get a bus/private transfer from Amman to Petra. It takes around three hours – but we’d recommend taking a tour. The visa situation: Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, others (such as citizens of GCC countries) can travel visa-free, and others must apply for a visa online.

The wonder: Petra is a spellbinding example of architectural majesty from those ancient masters of grand design, the Nabataeans. Within the 2,300-year-old city Siq you’ll find tombs and lofty sacrificial altars but the most impressive structure is the still immaculately preserved Treasury or Al Khazneh. It had a starring role in the climactic scenes of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and was elected to be one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. And since you’re going that way, we highly recommend you tag on trips to see Jordan’s other wonders – the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum.

The Underground Cities of Cappadocia, Turkey

How to get there: There are multiple options to get from the UAE to Istanbul direct (in less than five hours). Once there you can either get a flight (1.5 hours) into Cappadocia, bus/train (12 hours) or a scenic leisurely selfdrive (around 8 hours).

The visa situation: Most countries can apply for an eVisa.

The wonder: There is plenty of wonder to witness in the more famous and decidedly more cosmopolitan Istanbul. But for those that collect cultural and unorthodox travel experiences like totemic Infinity Stones, Cappadocia is a destination you cannot afford to miss. A land of mountains and meandering plains – explorer types can uncover a treasure trove of natural wonders, early Christian monasteries, hot air balloon safaris, and underground cities. There are entire, multi-level subterranean villages – built from around 370 BCE where the Antolians of the time sheltered from marauding hordes.

The Dragon Blood Trees of Socotra, Yemen

How to get there: Air Arabia offers a sesonal flight between Abu Dhabi and Socotra twice a week. It takes two hours but you’ll need to book through a travel agent. Other indirect options are available. The visa situation: You will need to pick up a visa in advance. Your travel agent should also be able to help with this.

The wonder: All very Game of Thrones sounding, isn’t it? Appropriate really because the surreal vistas of this Yemeni island are a bit Westerosi themselves. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a veritable wonderland of bizarre endemic species including the Dragon Blood Tree or Dracaena cinnabari. The article of flora, which looks suspiciously like something Salvador Dali might have invented, takes its name from the crimson colour of its sap, and not because of any hypothetical Targaryens.

Please note that it’s important to double-check all visa requirements for your particular nationality and destination ahead of booking any travel.

The Nabataean Carvings of Hegra, Saudi Arabia

How to get there: Flydubai gets you to AlUla non-stop in three hours.

The visa situation: Most UAE residents can now apply for a Saudi eVisa.

The wonder: There are many reasons to pay Saudi’s culture and heritage gem, AlUla a visit. The art installations, festivals and trust-fundluxury hotels, are all worthwhile distractions, but the main event is these incomprehensibly ornate rock carvings at Hegra. Hewn from a rock face with eerie laser precision, the tombs are the work of Nabataean artisans from the First Century AD. Not only are the structures’ straight lines, decorative column heads, and archways rendered in exquisite detail, but they’ve weathered two millennia’s worth of desert erosion. They stir up dormant emotions, imagined stories and renewed feelings of shame for our own wonky, DIY projects.

The Taj Mahal of Agra, India

How to get there: There are currently no direct flights to Agra, so it’s either indirect or a direct flight into Delhi (around 3 hours) followed by train, bus or car. The visa situation: Most nationalities are able, and obliged, to acquire an eVisa. The wonder: This world-renowned white marble mausoleum was ordered for construction in 1631 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. As gestures of undying love – Shah set the bar pretty high, and it’s something that weighs heavily every time I embark on the last-minute trawl of flower delivery services on February 14. It’s also been awarded New Wonder of the World status. Whilst in Agra, smart sojourners should consider extending their trip by touring the full Golden Triangle – which also includes the timeless beauty of Pink City, Jaipur and the bustling, culture-steeped capital of New Delhi.

The Lion Rock of Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

The Fiery Hell Gates of Turkmenistan

How to get there: Flydubai gets you to Ashgabat non-stop in two and a half hours. There’s then a three-hour bus ride to Darvaza. The visa situation: Most passport holders will need to apply for a visa in advance, as well as securing a letter of invitation.

The wonder: The Gates of Hell AKA The Shining of Karakum, and less dramatically, AKA The Darvaza gas crater – are some of the first names on the team sheet for those who like their landmarks with a dash of apocalyptic heraldry. You won’t find any winged, flaming-sword-swinging emissaries of the Upside Down (correct at time of writing) pouring out through the portal though, there’s actually a rather mundane explanation for the end of days pyro display. It’s a collapsed crater sitting on top of a natural gas field, with venting fires around the rim. Who’s joining us for a forbidden toasted marshmallow?

How to get there: Fly Dubai can get you into Colombo for around Dhs1,250 non stop. We’d recommend booking Sigiriya as part of a tour through a travel agent. The visa situation: eVisa

The wonder: A soaring granite fang piercing through dense tropical forest, the ancient capital of the storied lands it ruled over, 5,000 years worth of human history, ornate carvings, a giant hewn-lion entrance and enthralling frescos – Sigiriya can never be dismissed as ‘just a big rock’. Those that make their way to the summit can marvel over the stunning gardens, Lion Gate, mirror wall, and series of palace ruins. The view isn’t half bad either.

The Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

How to get there: Multiple airlines service the route between the UAE and Cairo direct in less than 4 hours.

The visa situation: Egypt requires that eligible individuals either apply for an eVisa, visa on arrival or more formal tourist visa – which one you’ll need, depends on your passport.

The wonder: The only surviving member of the original band of Seven World Wonders, the Great Pyramid of Giza is shrouded in mystery, intrigue and *to camera* aliens. Ok, so the balance of evidence suggests that this 4,500-year-old plus plus stone tomb probably wasn’t built by space masons – but there’s still a lot we can’t explain. Notably, exactly how the 2.3 million large limestone blocks that comprise it were moved and slotted together with such precision. Some commentators have also questioned its attribution to pharaoh Khufu, there’s dispute over the structure’s true age, and anyone that’s spent even a few hours down the rabbit hole of alternative history will know that there is a lot of maths in the engineering that really doesn’t add up. All of which is why it continues to capture the world’s wonderment.

The Wildebeest Migration of the Masai Mara, Kenya

The Great Mornes of Mahé, Seychelles

How to get there: Emirates flies to Mahé direct in 4.5 hours

The visa situation: Residents of the UAE can get a visa on arrival, but you will need to fill in an immigration form in advance.

The wonder: The Seychellois National Park, found on Mahé the main island of Seychelles, is a Pandoran wonderland. Characterised by lush tropical canopies and the island’s own natural skyscrapers – Mornes. Take the high road for jungle-bound exploration of the verdant Jurassic Park peaks, whose contours come complete with giant reptiles (though these ones, Aldabra tortoises, are on a strictly vegan diet). Or opt for the low road, tracing crystal coastlines by kayak or mask-and-flipper.

How to get there: You can make the journey between the UAE and Nairobi with Emirates, Kenyan Airways and Air Arabia. It’s around five hours flight time.

The visa situation: Kenya recently dropped its visa requirements for all countries in favour of an ‘Electronic Travel Authorisation’, you’ll find it at etakenya.go.ke.

The wonder: Africa, the cradle of human civilisation, is home to some big geography and big animals, in fact the only place you can see ‘The Big Five’ (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo) in the their natural habitat. Kenya’s Masai Mara is a sprawling swathe of African Savanna and is recognised as one of the best places for seeing these magnificent creatures roaming free. But it’s not the only wild Kenyan bucket list tick that should be on your travel radar. Twice yearly (July to August, October to November) the wildebeest migration sees a band of plucky herbivores cruise through plains, past hunting parties of lions and cheetahs and through crocodile-infested rivers. Watch it from the safety of a safari truck, or the basket of a hot air balloon – along with grazing herds of zebra, giraffes and hippos. It’s the circle... The circle of life (in full HD).

A ONE-NIGHT STAY AT SAADIYAT ROTANA RESORT & VILLAS

Escape to the serene shores of Saadiyat Island with this staycation at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas. Perched on one of the finest beaches in the Middle East, the prize includes an overnight stay for two in a guest room with private balcony, and breakfast the next morning thrown in. Use it as a base to explore Saadiyat Island’s star attractions, like Mamsha Al Saadiyat and Louvre Abu Dhabi, or drop and flop at the pool and beach and simply bliss out. T&Cs Apply

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

WIN! WIN!

A ONE-NIGHT STAY AT BANYAN TREE DUBAI

A self-described sanctuary of the senses, Banyan Tree Dubai is a zen-inducing address on the shores of Bluewaters. With this prize, we’re giving you and your special someone an overnight stay in a Bliss Guestroom, which comes with beautiful ocean views. Enjoy sun-drenched days by the beach or pool, pamper yourself at the spa (spa treatment not included) and enjoy a decadent breakfast of your favourite dishes. T&Cs Apply

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

THE ULTIMATE DUBAI WEEKEND WITH RIKAS GROUP

Rikas Group are the hospitality heavyweights behind some of Dubai’s hottest spots, and with this prize, you and your plus one will enjoy the ultimate weekend on them with Friday, Saturday and Sunday events. You’ll start off with dinner for two at their newest dining destination, Aretha, where you’ll be transported to the golden eras of the 60s and 70s with a dazzling show. On Saturday, you’ll head to Lana Lusa, located atop the Four Seasons Residences at Dubai Canal, for a delectable Portuguese-inspired breakfast, before partying it up at the karaoke-themed brunch at XU. To round out an epic Saturday, dinner at fabulous French fun-dining eatery, La Cantine, is included too. Then on Sunday, you’ll get to soak up the sun with a dreamy beach day at Tagomago. T&Cs Apply

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

WIN! WIN!

A BRUNCH AND STAY AT SHANGRI-LA

QARYAT AL BERI, ABU DHABI

Enjoy a beautiful break at the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi with your special someone. You’ll check in to one of the traditionally adorned rooms, wake up to breakfast the next day, and then continue on a culinary voyage with a table for two at the Gardens of Babylon brunch. It’s a fusion of flavours and one of the best spreads in the capital. T&Cs Apply

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

STAYCATION REVIEW:

Arabian Boutique Hotel

In for 2024: boutique hotels...

LOCATION

Now restored to a state of near-originality, Arabian Boutique Hotel stands at the edge of the Dubai Creek, in Dubai’s oldest district, transformed into a sanctum of culture, tradition and history. The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is the perfect location for this hotel – a total history trip and a serene, secluded one at that. Thani bin Abdullah Al-Rumaiti, a dignitary and figure of influence in the country, belonged to the first generation that worked alongside the founding fathers and served as the first President of the Federal National Council. This was once his home, and the thought of it being that before a hotel gives it more heart.

LOOK AND FEEL

At first glance, the space looks like it could be a museum. The design is entirely traditional and authentic, featuring Emirati construction, with the air towers, the awnings, the wooden doors with bolt locks, the double pane windows and the

raised sofas. The skeleton of the building has not been tampered with, the roofs and the colours of the facade preserved. Inside, the furniture is also traditional with raised sofas and typical tapestries. There is a row of colourful bicycles placed by the entrance of the courtyard for the guests, so they can explore the district, a car-free zone. There’s blossoming greenery everywhere, which is what gives the hotel the appearance of an intimate sanctuary, hidden away from the city among the leaves.

ROOMS

The rooms at the hotel are not what one would call lavish but there is a subtle luxury to them. The first element of that is the all-white everything decor. Every bit of the room is white, from the walls to the furniture to the bedding and even the lights. The second element is the expansive

bathroom with a massive standing shower and also pristine white tiling. Everything is instantly elevated a bit more. The room itself has all the usual amenities you would look for in a comfortable stay and around-the-clock room service. It’s cosy, it’s comfortable and it’s the perfect level of modern to balance the heritage aspect.

FOOD AND DRINK

There is one restaurant in the hotel, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Seating for hotel guests is on the terrace, under a breezy shade of straw and with a beautiful view of the Creek and beyond. Naturally, the cuisine is traditional Middle Eastern and everything we order is delicious. From the manakeesh to the hamour fish and chips and the musakhan to the arais, not only are the flavours great, but the portions are hearty and a bang for your buck. Two people can dine here for under Dhs300.

RATES

Room rates start from Dhs654. Arabian Boutique Hotel, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Tel: (0)50 165 9603. @arabianboutique.hotel

Words: Manaal Fatimah

Every Friday, 9:30 onwards

MEYHANE GECESI

A night full of Turkish rhythms and delicacies For reservations: 058 582 7092

Editor-in-Chief

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Managing Partner & Group Editor lan Fairservice

Chief Commercial Officer Anthony Milne

EDITORIAL

Group Editor - What’s On Alice Holtham-Pargin | alice.holtham@motivate.ae

Deputy Editor, Dubai

Miles Buckeridge | miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae

Deputy Editor, Abu Dhabi

Dinesh Ramanathan | dinesh.ramanathan@motivate.ae

Senior Online Reporter

Jumira Hancock

Online Reporter

Afrah Bari

Online Reporter Aarti Saundalkar

Junior Reporter

Shelby Gee

DESIGN

Art Director Sheila Deocareza

CONTRIBUTORS

Online Reporter Tamara Wright

Junior Reporter Manaal Fatimah

Laura Coughlin, Elise Kerr

COMMERCIAL

Publisher, Dubai David Burke | davidb@motivate.ae

Group Sales Manager Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae

Group Sales Manager

Violeta Popescu | violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

Regional Manager – Abu Dhabi

Taran Singh | taran.singh@motivate.ae

PRODUCTION

General Manager –Production Sunil Kumar

Production Manager Binu Purandaran

Production Supervisor Venita Pinto

Web Developer Firoz Kaladi

9

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Saudi Arabia: Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, KSA, Tel: +966 11 834 3595 / +966 11 834 3596, Email: motivate@motivate.ae

London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae

The local hotel stays to fill your summer days with

23 STAYCATIONS

SHORT HAUL

Planning a mini-break? Discover the best destinations within a four-hour flight of the UAE

35 INSPIRATION

New flight routes to know about, what to pack for your next trip, and the bucket list restaurants around the world Dubai foodies love

53 LONG HAUL

Planning an adventure further afield? Check out our guide to the top spots to visit this summer

YOUR PARTY YOUR WAY IN OUR 2-BED & 4-BED PRIVATE POOL SKY VILLAS

THIS SUMMER, I’VE MADE IT MY MISSION TO TRAVEL AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE LETTER

Most of my travel plans, like many of my friends, revolve around weddings. My summer sojourns for dreamy destination weddings began with my own nuptials in Tuscany last month. But with a further four weddings this summer in Lake Como, Rome, Bordeaux, and the English countryside, my mantra for the coming months is: explore more.

And our second annual travel supplement is your invitation to do the same. A lot can change in a year, particularly in the world of travel, so we’re bringing you all things new and exciting from cherrypicked destinations, whether your travel plans revolve around staycations across the emirates, regional trips a short flight away, or long, leisurely breaks to must-visit destinations further afield. The best staycation deals right here in the UAE can be found from p16, featuring an eclectic mix of seaside retreats, sleek city stays, and familyfriendly resorts. On p24, we’re shining the spotlight on one of the world’s most exciting new tourism destinations, The Red Sea, set to rival the Maldives when it comes to luxurious island escapes and dazzling natural beauty. And if you’re heading to Europe’s leading hotspots, we’ve got the lowdown on where to eat, stay and play in Bodrum (p54), Capri (p56) and the South of France (p62).

Happy travelling,

EDITOR’S PICKS

Slim fit jogger and regular fit zip hoodie, The Giving Movement Dhs698, thegivingmovement.com

Blush

Blush and glow travel set, Rare Beauty Dhs190, sephora.ae

Personalised vanity case, Embossed Dhs299, embossed.ae

Rococo Shell Necklace, VALÉRE Dhs350, ounass.ae

Marbella Sol, Assouline Dhs420, assouline.com

INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY, SUMMER BLISS AT YOUR DOORSTEP

Indulge in Sophisticated Luxury This Summer

DISCOVER OUR EXCLUSIVE SUMMER OFFERS

Shop, Stay & Savour | Enjoy a 1-night stay with breakfast and dinner for you and your family at Anise, a Dubai Festival City Mall shopping voucher booklet, AED 100 SPA InterContinental credit, and access to Planet Trekkers kids club.

A Suite Stay | Revel in four luxurious nights but pay for only three when booking a suite & enjoy exclusive perks. Live the InterContinental Life. For bookings and more information, please call +971 (0)4 701 1111, email reservation.dfc@ihg.com, or visit dubaifestivalcityhotels.com/offers. Terms & conditions apply.

Through my eyes

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO...

Tom

Grond

IFor relaxation

n our monthly magazine, we ask residents to share their favourite hotspots and hidden gems of the UAE. But because this is a dedicated travel special, we thought we’d ask somebody with a bit of global oversight, a warden of wanderlust to act as tour guide. This is Tom Grond (@traveltomtom) AKA traveltomtom.net, a man on a perpetual voyage with a passport stamp count of 159 countries (and counting), and so is uniquely qualified to hold court on the best global destinations for relaxing, exploring,

Bali is, for me, the perfect place to relax, think about future travel destinations and projects, and rejuvenate before my next big trip. When I need a break, I jump on my rented scooter and get lost in the rice fields with the wind in my face. Plus, getting a massage three times a week is just a normal thing to do.

For beach life

One of my favourite beaches is on a deserted island near Tortuguero, Costa Rica, where I volunteered for a turtle conservation project. It’s framed between jungle and ocean. Special mention goes to the under explored beaches of the South Pacific, for example Palau, Marshall Islands, and Kiribati. And Peninsula Valdes in Argentina, where you can see orcas from the shore.

For budget travel

When traveling on a budget you should choose your destinations wisely, it will define how long you can travel for. I would say Southeast Asia is a wise choice, as you can find affordable accommodation and amazing food. But for somewhere off the beaten path: Uzbekistan, Nepal, Guatemala, Bolivia and Algeria. They’re safe, affordable and filled with amazing adventures, landmarks, architecture and treks.

For adventure

One of the least known travel destinations, but a true hidden gem is Vanuatu. It’s found in the South Pacific, so expect the most amazing beaches, lush tropical islands, super-friendly indigenous tribes, and an active volcano that you can stand on the rim of and watch it erupt in your face.

For growth

I have visited 35 out the 54 African countries and have had some amazing adventures, but travelling in some parts of Africa can be challenging. Life can be rough in Africa and people hustle every day. You can see with your own eyes where some of our luxury goods come from, and it is often not a pretty sight.

ANANTARA SANTORINI p10

| THE LANA p12

| WALDORF ASTORIA RAS AL KHAIMAH p14 | STAYCATION DEALS p16

ANANTARA SANTORINI ABU DHABI RETREAT

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin Bringing a gorgeous slice of the Cyclades to the Ghantoot shorefront...

LOCATION

While the resort’s address is technically Abu Dhabi, Ghantoot is closer to Dubai. You take the Ghantoot Exit 399 off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi road, then it’s about 15 minutes drive through expansive plains of desert that make you feel like you’ve taken a wrong turn, before the unmistakable whitewashed facade of the resort emerges.

LOOK AND FEEL

It’s as close to experiencing the Cyclades as you’ll get without hopping on the six-hour flight to Santorini or Mykonos. The buildings, in beautiful white stone, are all curved lines and split levels, designed to replicate the hotel’s moniker destination with pretty magenta bougainvillea plants and olive trees dotted throughout the grounds. Endless shades of white are laced with light woods and soft shades of turqouise inspired by the coastline, which can be enjoyed from almost every room thanks to the big French windows that flood all the spaces with bright natural light.

ROOMS

There are just 22 rooms split between three categories, and the Fira Sea View Room we check-in to is a spacious 44 square metres, with a king-sized bed, comfy sofa, and a dressing area where you’ll find a Nespresso machine and a dresser. Our favourite part is the terrace that gazes out to the beach and sea, with a day bed tucked away in the corner where we’d happily curl up and listen to the waves roll onto the beach rhythmically.

FACILITIES

Due its more remote location, if you’re checking-in here, you’ll likely be spending most of your time on property. Bringing true Cyclades serenity to the centre of the resort is an inviting infinity pool, lined with loungers in soft natural shades and a collection of day beds, acoustic pop tunes provide a quiet, relaxing backdrop. If you prefer background music in the form of gently lapping waves, pull up a seat

on the beach and work on your tan with your toes in the sand. The resort is all about serenity, so book ahead to make use of the small spa, where there’s a single treatment room for signature massages that are pampering and energising in equal measure. There’s a hammam, sauna and plunge pool to use at the spa too. Around every corner, seating areas and cosy living rooms fitted with supersized TVs and tables stacked with coffee table books provide lovely indoor spaces to kick back.

FOOD AND DRINK

There are two restaurants to dine at. Breakfast is served at Oia Oasis, which sits pretty at the poolside, and serves up a neat menu of breakfast classics. Forgoing the wasteful buffet, you order everything a la carte, including a basket of warm pastries, and sweet options such as the fruity acai bowl, or an eggs Benedict that comes with a creamy hollandaise and generous slivers of smoked salmon. For dinner, Greek eats with wider Mediterranean influence are served by the beach at Thelassa. The most romantic seat is a table for two set away from the main restaurant on the sand, surrounded by candles and serviced by a dedicated butler. A mosaic of watermelon and feta salad (Dhs95) with drizzles of balsamic is a refreshing way to start, and we enjoy the flavours in the tiger prawn and hokkaido scallop (Dhs250) with edamame puree and sweet potato crisp.

RATES

Entry level Oia Sea View Rooms start from Dhs2,106 inclusive of breakfast.

VERDICT

Anantara Santorini sets a new benchmark for boutique stays in the UAE, serving up an authentic Greek escape that feels like a true secluded oasis.

Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, Ghantoot. Tel: (0)4 567 8666. anantara.com

Embark on a luxurious stay in the privacy of your own villa

Relax, unwind and make the most of your stay at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. Gaze out at an enchanting underwater world through the glass viewing panel of your Over-Water Villa, or slip into your private pool in a Beach Pool Villa. Rise to dazzling sea views and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Crescendo or Revo Cafe with a vista of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s stunning coastline.

Package includes:

Up to 30% savings on accommodation in a One Bedroom Over Water Villa or One Bedroom Beach Pool Villa. Daily breakfast for two people.

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin

STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT:

THE LANA, DORCHESTER COLLECTION, DUBAI

An iconic name ticks all the boxes with its dazzling and refined approach to modern luxury...

LOCATION

Business Bay might not initially feel like the most natural location for the Dorchester Collection – the legendary operators behind London’s iconic Dorchester hotel and Paris’ storied Hôtel Plaza Athénée – to make their Middle Eastern debut. But this 30-storey lesson in modern architectural mastery fits right into its modern surroundings on the edge of Downtown. It gazes over the Marasi Marina, perfectly framing the Burj Khalifa and the skyscraperfilled skyline beyond.

LOOK AND FEEL

Cheery doormen dressed in crimson and top hats set the stage for a grand entrance. Once inside the lobby, muted hues of dusk pink and cream create a space that oozes old-world glamour. The Lana forgoes Dubai’s typically bold approach to opulence for an altogether more subtle iteration. It glows with quiet luxury through bespoke service, and the kind of attention to detail that takes a hotel from great to truly memorable.

ROOMS

The duplex suite we check-in to is spacious and grand, with a marble staircase, mirrored ceiling, and almost cinemalike Bang & Olufsen TV. Fresh blooms in the living room and bedroom, rare white strawberries, and a collection of bespoke Avancha Teas made

exclusively for The Lana, welcome guests. All the traditional five-star luxuries are given a chic Lana touch too, like ultra-fluffy dressing gowns, the latest Dyson hairdryers, and crisp cotton sheets. That Dorchester Collection legacy also laces its way into the guest rooms through self-branded bathroom amenities, a vinyl record player, and a watch winder in the walk-in wardrobe.

FACILITIES

On the rooftop, High Society is the hotel’s crowning jewel, and the swimming pool – exclusive to in-house guests by day – boasts breathtaking city vistas. As the sun sets, High Society welcomes a glamorous sundowner crowd to enjoy an excellent and inventive array of cocktails. Those in search of some blissful relaxation can also enjoy pampering at Dubai’s first Dior Spa, on the hotel’s 29th floor. Soon, guests at this sleek city stay will also benefit from beach access at LAVITA, the beach club set to open at One Palm.

FOOD AND DRINK

Much of the culinary action currently happens around a duo of dining options from acclaimed chef Jean Imbert. On the rooftop, High Society presents refined grazing plates, light salads and sandwiches, and a caviar and oyster offering. This is Dubai, after all. Riviera, chef Jean Imbert’s love letter to the French and Italian coasts, serving as a much elevated all-day dining experience. It offers a la carte breakfasts that include indulgent French toast drizzled with caramel sauce, and boiled eggs topped with caviar. For dinner, modern Mediterranean flavours are brought to life through dishes such as the melt-in-the-mouth Côte de bœuf.

RATES

Entry level room rates for The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai start from Dhs3,400. Marina Duplex suites start from Dhs20,000.

VERDICT

It’s everything you’d expect from a luxury hotel: grand, yet warm, and from start to finish the molecular attention to detail makes each guest feel special.

The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Dubai. Tel: (0)4 541 7777. dorchestercollection.com

This summer, enjoy exclusive benefits and the most memorable holiday moments at Al Wadi Desert.

• Daily breakfast for 2 adults

• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner with soft drinks and ice cream for children under 12

• AED 200 resort credit per night

• Access to Ritz Kids at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

• Complimentary shuttle service between The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach and The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

• Please use code SUM while booking the offer

To know more, visit //www.ritzcarlton.com/alwadidesert or dial +971 7-206 7777

Words: Shelby Gee

STAYCATION REVIEW:

WALDORF ASTORIA RAS AL KHAIMAH

A blissful beach retreat with plenty for all ages

LOCATION

Nestled on the white sand shores of Ras Al Khaimah, just past the Al Hamra Village – Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is a palatial property on the shorefront of the adventure emirate.

LOOK AND FEEL

The resort has recently undergone renovations. While maintaining the core arabesque feel on the façade and interior of the resort, there is a sense of an elevated stay. You instantly feel as though you are on vacation as soon as you walk through the doors. The contemporary upgrades are evident throughout the bright and relaxing lobby and in our ninth-floor King Ocean View Junior Suite.

ROOMS

The enhancements are showcased in the bright and contemporary suite we check-in to. To the right, double sliding doors open to a full his and her dressing room with blissfully soft gowns waiting to envelop us in a warm hug. Just adjacent to the dressing room is a sumptuous bathroom, complete with a rain shower and bathtub big enough for two. The Junior Suite comes with an extra-large king and a separate living area. The balcony is modest but has a beautiful view of the pool area and the expansive Arabian Gulf beyond.

FACILITIES

The resort has it all. From a gorgeous adult-only beach club and pool to restaurants, a stunning spa and gym. It also offers three distinct restaurant options, with two pool bars, one of which is a swim-up bar. The pampering spa themed around the ocean is beautifully decorated and cannot go without a mention. It feels as though you have stepped into Poseidon’s castle, with ceiling elements that are reminiscent of pearls and blue walls that emulate the ocean. Their signature couples massage will take your

relaxation to the next level with a private steam room, and jacuzzi in the VIP suite, before you enjoy the signature massage, inspired by the rhythmn of soothing ocean waves.

FOOD AND DRINK

From steakhouse to Mediterranean poolside restaurant, there are no less than eight restaurants and bars in the resort. Lexington Grill offers dry-aged beef in an old-school steakhouse environment where a live singer keeps vibes bluesy and mellow. A standout for us was the Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, Umi. As far as attention to detail and care for cuisine and tradition goes, Umi goes far beyond the typical hotel dining experience. We delighted in an incredible seven-course tasting menu that highlighted the signature dishes of the restaurant. These included a sumptuous salmon tiradito, and hamachi sashimi, with wasabi ground fresh at our table.

RATES

A one-night stay at the King Ocean View Junior Suite starts from Dhs1,147 per night including breakfast. The half-board rate starts from Dhs1,650 per night.

THE VERDICT

An all-encompassing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah is a modest one-hour drive away from Dubai, but this dreamy beach retreat feels worlds away.

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, Vienna Street, Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah. Tel: (0)7 203 555. hilton.com

YOUR PERFECT BEACHFRONT STAYCATION AWAITS

Welcome to InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa, an idyllic beachfront resort where the luxury of island living intertwines with the allure of authentic Arabia. Located just a 45-minute drive from Dubai, it is the perfect destination for a staycation filled with fun, adventure, and pure indulgence. Enjoy our opulent villas and suites with stunning sea views, sparkling swimming pools, vibrant dining, our SPA InterContinental featuring a traditional Turkish Hammam, and a host of leisure activities for couples and families.

Live the InterContinental Life.

For reservations and more information, please email reservations.icrak@ihg.com or visit icrasalkhaimah.com

THE HEAT

No plans to jet away for the summer? No problem. We’ve got you covered with the best staycation deals around town

Words: Aarti Saundalkar

ABU DHABI

St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

A flavoursome stay awaits on this pristine natural island with complimentary daily buffet breakfast, plus a three-course set menu for lunch or dinner at Olea Restaurant and access to The St. Regis Athletic Club, pool and beach. The best news? You’ll also get to experience the renowned St. Regis signature butler service.

Rates from Dhs1,833. @stregissaadiyatisland

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

You can get a complimentary night over summer when you book a minimum of three nights at this luxury hotel. Children up to the age of 12 will enjoy a complimentary stay, and it includes a buffet breakfast at Sofra bld.

Rates from Dhs1,102. @shangrilaabudhabi

Four Seasons Abu Dhabi

Four Seasons Abu Dhabi is offering 15 per cent off when you stay for two nights or more. Enhance your stay with a daily breakfast buffet at Crust and you’ll get to enjoy a new beach experience at Saadiyat Beach Club which is a short drive away from the hotel. Transportation is provided to shuttle you to and from the beach club.

Rates from Dhs973 per night. @fsabudhabi

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

Round up the family and head for a weekend escape at this sublime Saadiyat Island resort. The Family Weekend Escape for two adults and two children includes a family room where little ones above five get free access to the Explorers Kids Club. Children under six can dine for free, and those ages six to 12 will get 50 per cent discount. You will also be treated to a Dhs100 voucher to use at the spa.

Rates from Dhs2,000. @saadiyatrotana

Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

Stargazers, set your eyes to this glittering staycation nestled within the Arabian Desert. The Al Wathba Exploration deal includes an overnight stay in a room, suite or villa plus breakfast at Bait Al Hanine, and a complimentary guided tour of the on-site Al Sadeem Observatory. You can also enjoy other activities such as archery or sand wheels, and you can even ride the waves at Flow Rider, so pack your swimsuits. Use promotion code 11P to book.

Rates from Dhs1,050. @alwathbahotel

DUBAI

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Over the summer you can save up to 35 per cent on rooms and villas at this Thai-inspired paradise. The deal includes complimentary daily breakfast, 10 per cent off at the brilliant collection of restaurants, 20 per cent off selected activities and 30 per cent at the spa. To redeem, use the promo code ‘LOCALS’ and don’t forget your Emirates ID when you check-in.

Rates from Dhs600. @anantaradubai

Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort

Anantara World Island is your getaway to a tranquil island without the need for a plane ticket. UAE and GCC residents can avail up to 35 per cent off on weekday accommodations, which includes a daily breakfast for two at Qamar Resort, plus credit of up to Dhs750. If you book a beach pool villa, a two-bedroom villa or a four-bedroom villa, you will get one 60-minute full body massage for two people.

Rates from Dhs1,300. @anantaraworldislandsdubai

Delta Hotels by Marriott, JBR

QE2 Dubai

The Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a slice of history. Your stay will be packed with delightful perks, including a buffet breakfast for two at Lido, and a complimentary upgrade to a sea-view room. Additionally, you will get 20 per cent off on food and beverage. Want to disembark the ship? There’s a free shuttle bus to Dubai Mall.

Rates from Dhs259. @qe2dubai

Round up the whole family and head to Delta Hotels by Marriott, JBR to reconnect over the summer. Little ones under the age of 12 will be able to stay and eat for free. Use promotion code ZJ6 when you book.

Rates from Dhs474. @deltahotelsjbr

W Dubai - The Palm

At W Dubai - The Palm, a stay over the summer includes buffet breakfast for two adults at LIV restaurant, 25 per cent off across the hotel’s food and beverage venues (excluding inroom dining and Akira Back), a 25 per cent discount at AWAY Spa, plus USD100 (Dhs367) hotel credit to spend as you wish. Going with kids under 12? They can stay and eat for free when an adult is dining. There’s a minimum two-night stay requirement.

Rates from Dhs885. @wdubaipalm

Bab Al Shams

Escape city skylines and head to Bab Al Shams for a captivating getaway amidst Dubai’s golden dunes. Your stay will include breakfast at Zala, a credit of Dhs250 for the spa or sports and leisure activities, plus 30 per cent off all food and drink. You can enjoy the sun loungers by the infinity pool during your stay, a falconry show and a short camel ride.

Rates from Dhs810. @babalshamshotel

Five LUXE JBR

Newly opened beachfront resort Five LUXE has an All You Can Play staycation, which you can pair with sensational dining, nightlife and entertainment. Five LUXE is home to signature suites, spa suites with XL pools, and more. There are several dining venues, a beach club, and for sips, you can’t skip Paradiso – the Dubai spinoff of the Barcelona original, a former World’s 50 Best Bar winner. Stay over the summer and when you stay four nights you’ll only pay for three, or extend to 8 nights and only pay for six..

Rates from Dhs680. @fiveluxejbr

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel

UAE residents enjoy up to 25 per cent off at this nostalgic Jumeirah hotel. You will get a complimentary daily breakfast, up to 20 per cent off dining at the collection of restaurant and 30 per cent off Akaru Spa treatments. The room is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged family member along for the fun. For art fans, wander around the hotel and find some pretty cool works of art.

Rates from Dhs281. @jumeirahcreekside

Address Beach Resort

Over the summer, you can save 25 per cent off the best available rate at the chic and contemporary Address Beach Resort in JBR. As well as access to the fabulous facilities –including that show-stopping infinity pool, there’s a resort credit for all guests. You will get Dhs300 for room bookings and Dhs500 for suite bookings. You can use either the resort credit against spa treatments, food and drink, or opt for a 25 per cent discount towards dining or spa treatments at the resort.

Rates from Dhs1,125. @addressbeachresort

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

If you want to be in close access to a mall, this is the staycation for you. UAE residents get 35 per cent off the best available rate, up to Dhs500 credit to use at in-house restaurants, and 20 per cent off on Sensasia Spa. If you book a corner suite, you will have free access to Ski Dubai.

Rates from Dhs1,119. @kempinskidubai

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

InterContinental Dubai Festival City has thought of it all this summer. Guests will enjoy 25 per cent savings on the best available rate, plus breakfast and dinner thrown in at Anise. You can also enjoy a dip in one of the hotel’s pools – including the infinity pool – and relax with a Dhs100 voucher to use at the spa while the little ones check out Planet Trekkers Kid’s Club. But that’s not all. Shoppers can enjoy retail therapy at the mall with the Dubai Festival City Mall voucher booklet.

Rates from Dhs580. @intercondfc

JA The Resort

Home to three magnificent five-star properties – JA Lake View Hotel, JA Beach Hotel, and JA Palm Tree Court, this summer you can enjoy 40 per cent off rooms plus 20 per cent off food, beverages, spa treatments and other activities. You can also enjoy early check-in and late check-out. In even better news? Children stay for free.

Rates from Dhs360. @jatheresort

Rove at the Park

Theme park fans, pack your bags and head to Rove at the Park for a cool exclusive deal that includes a one-night stay, plus two tickets to either Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark or Real Madrid World for just Dhs399. If you’re bringing little ones above the age of three, the ticket cost is Dhs189. There’s a free shuttle bus to the park and back. Rates from Dhs399. @rovehotels

Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort

Check-in for a weekend getaway on your doorstep at this Miami-inspired stay on Palm Jumeirah. Before you unwind by the pool and bask in the sun, enjoy Envy’s Brunchopolis Saturday brunch complete with sushi, BBQ, desserts and unlimited drinks. Then, bliss out with an overnight stay and wake up to a hearty breakfast. Rates from Dhs688. @th8palm

NORTHERN EMIRATES

InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa

This luxury beachfront resort is 45 minutes away from Dubai and offers great options for families looking for a break from city skylines. You can enjoy the white sand beach, pools, the award-winning spa, and leisure activities. The Half-Board Dine Around offer includes a daily breakfast plus unlimited access to the kids and teens’ club. For couples, opt for a stay in Club InterContinental for a taste of luxury with access to the private lounge with an adults-only pool and jacuzzi and culinary offerings throughout the day.

Rates from Dhs1,134. @intercontinentalrasalkhaimah

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

For a touch of the wild side, families heading to this desert sanctuary will enjoy a luxury stay with breakfast and a family dinner (two adults and two children) at Kaheela. Children under six stay and dine for free. The best part of the staycation is the Al Wadi Experience, which includes wildlife feeding, camel rides, stargazing and more.

Rates from Dhs1,021. @ritzcarltonalwadidesert

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach

A private oasis awaits families checking in to this beachfront luxury resort over the summer. There’s daily breakfast for two at Shore House Restaurant, plus complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner with soft drinks and ice cream for children under 12. You will get Dhs200 credit per night to use, and children will have access to Ritz Kids at The RitzCarlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert. Complimentary shuttle service is also available. Rates from Dhs1,741. @ritzcarltonalhamrabeach

Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain

Seeking serenity? Pack your bags and make a beeline to Vida Beach Resort Umm Al Quwain. This allinclusive staycation deal includes complimentary food and drinks all day. You can relax on the resort’s private beach or chill poolside with fun activities.

Rates from Dhs328. @vidahotels

• AED 200 resort credit per night

• Access to Ritz Kids at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

• Complimentary shuttle service between The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach and The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

• Please use code SUM while booking the offer

To know more, visit //www.ritzcarlton.com/al-hamra-beach or dial +971 7-204 8888

RED SEA p24 | OMAN p28 | MALDIVES p30

FROM VISION TO

The Red Sea is a pioneer in Saudi Arabia’s transformation into an alluring, all-encompassing tourism destination. As it becomes the first giga project to welcome guests, Alice Holtham-Pargin discovers why it’s been worth the wait…

I’ve been in Saudi Arabia for under an hour, and I’ve already seen craggy mountain peaks, rolling desert plains, and waters so impossibly turquoise I had to double take. Such is the vast and varied topography of The Red Sea, one of the world’s last remaining unspoiled landscapes. It is pioneering in many ways. As the first of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious giga projects to welcome guests, it sets the benchmark for others, including Diriyah, Sindalah, and Trojena, all of which will invite tourists to enjoy their take on experiential hospitality and luxury tourism in the coming years. But it also looks to set the standard for eco-tourism globally. It might feel like a juxtaposition, building an eco-tourism development on a natural island archipelago. But upon completion, The Red Sea project will see just one per cent of its islands developed, and the entire masterplan run off renewable energy. For now, only three of the 50 planned resorts are welcoming guests. That figure is set to sit at 16 by the end of 2025.

Six Senses Southern Dunes

Around an hour’s drive from The Red Sea’s newly-opened airport, camouflaged in the endless landscape of the Khuff dunes on the outskirts of Umluj, is Six Senses Southern Dunes. It’s one of only two in-land resorts planned for the destination, inviting travellers to trade azure waters for the flame hues of the rolling desert. Between spectacular views and the ultimate comfort of privacy, this destination remains relatively unknown, untouched, and enticing.

The on-site offering of edu-tainment, wellness, and locally-inspired activites is a welcome reminder of what this destination is all about: showcasing the beauty and rich history of Saudi Arabia. At the Earth Lab, guests can enjoy hands-on workshops like soap-making from repurposed cooking oil, a cooking school where you can whip up Arabic dishes, and Chef’s Table. Nestled within the Oasis complex, you’ll find four Artisan pods, each with a different experience – from a Sadu weaving activity and a majlis with a pool table to a 24-hour gelateria.

With so much beauty, authenticity and intrigue on offer, there’s little need to leave the property, really. But to make this journey to somewhere so remote and untouched, and not experience the Red Sea would be a mistake.

Something I find myself thinking as I cruise the choppy Red Sea waters to the furthermost

Islands on the edge of the giga project, where a pair of luxury Marriott resorts, The St. Regis Red Sea and Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, are found.

On a scenic boat ride, we pass the under-construction Shura Island –where 11 resorts will open next year – and a handful of fishing boats, but the closer we get to the resort, the less we see. Calm ocean ripples melt into the gloriously blue sky, the horizon the only differentiator between the two. The resort unrolls against the entire almost 3km-long island, ringed by a pristine coral reef. The closest destination to compare it to would be the Maldives, but that doesn’t do it justice.

The resort strikes the right balance between splashy St. Regis glamour and stripped-back natural beauty, and the result is a property that offers sophistication and style, while still allowing the local influence to

Six Senses Southern Dunes, Reserve Villa

Ummahat

Six Senses Southern Dunes, Room View

Six Senses Southern Dunes, Pool Villa

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort

shine through. Despite being on a remote island, some 300 species of flora have been landscaped into the island, which only adds to its beauty. But the real wow-factor in terms of natural features comes from the water that surrounds the resort, impossibly clear and shimmering a sensational turquoise blue. I find myself hypnotised by it one sunrise, watching as the golden orb rises into the sky, returning the dark water to its signature shade of crystalline blue as night moves to day.

A spaciously laid out collection of 90 villas are divided between the beach (Dune Villas) and over water (Coral Villas), the latter of which come as both sunrise or sunset options. The Coral Villas over the water are the ones to book for true island allure, filled with oceanic notes from the endless shades of blue and white, to seashell shapes printed into the bathroom wall and a coral print carpet in the centre of the bedroom.

On land, days can be spent lazing at the beach club, getting pampered with locallyinspired treatments at the Spa, or simply cycling around the island admiring the scenery. But it’s the Red Sea waters that are truly unmissable, and so I join a snorkelling group one morning to tick it off my Red Sea bucket list. We life jacket up and board the boat, and once we’re out of the shallows of the resort, we speed over to Al Jadeer Reef, roughly 30 minutes from the island. The 22km reef is lined with nearly a dozen channels, and you can tell there’s something special about the reef before

your fins even touch the water. As we sit on the edge poised to submerge, you can already see the corals reaching out from below the surface. Once we’re in, the true majesty of the reef is revealed. The first part of the reef is shallower, and we drift by shoals of colourful little fish. As we get deeper into the reef, the true diversity of this rainbow-splashed underwater world comes to life. Corals in cornflower blue, delicate violet and mustard yellow; fish in every colour – yellow, orange, turquoise, some with lightning stripes of blue, others with leopard prints, unbothered by our presence, go about their day along the reef.

We begin to head back to land, perfectly contented with our fill of aquatic life despite no sightings of turtles or rays that other guests were fortunate to see. Then our captain Abdulrahman takes a detour, having seen something in the distance. Going off course is rewarding – and a pod of almost 20 dolphins appear out of nowhere, happily jumping alongside the boat, racing us playfully across the Red Sea.

That night, despite the cloudy skies, a convoy of ant-like buggies make their way to Tilina, the overwater restaurant and the destination for sunset sabrage, a signature St. Regis happening. A violin serenades us, a bottle of French Bloom is sabered, then glasses of alcohol-free bubbly are passed

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Overwater Villas

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Presidential Dune Villa

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Coral Villa

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Coral Villa Sun Deck

The St. Regis Red Sea Resort, Dune Villas

around to guests. Everyone seems satisfied with the subtle glow of pastel pink that dances on the horizon. Then it starts changing, the clouds that were previously concealing the sun begin to break, their streaks enhancing the sunset that starts to turn pink, then red, then yellow, then a glorious flame orange. It’s mesmerising. Despite tourism being in its infancy in Saudi Arabia, there’s a genuine heart to the service that can’t be taught by an SOP manual, and only comes from a true passion for hospitality. The team are well versed in the St. Regis brand standards, my own butler Fuzail shares details on the daily happenings, the best sunset spots, and his favourite dishes at the resort’s Japanese eatery, Gishiki 45. But they also genuinely care that you’re having a good time. That’s evident both in the expats that work here, and even more so in the growing number of Saudis.

One afternoon I’m treated to a preview of Nujuma, the third Red Sea Resort that is set to welcome guests just days after my visit. Over lunch at the breathtaking, sea-facing all-day dining restaurant, Sita, I talk to Salha Al Zalai, a Saudi national, who’s risen through the ranks and now leads the learning and development programme for both St Regis and Nujuma. She talks animatedly about how local perceptions are changing, and how it’s not only being made easier – but also encouraged –for local men and women to take up roles in hospitality. She echoes a sentiment I hear often, of the pride Saudi people feel about being able to share their stories, their culture, and their land with visitors.

Many of these stories are woven into the design details at Nujuma. A blend of RitzCarlton Reserve’s hyper-luxury resort offering, laced with Saudi Arabian heritage and culture, the resort is dressed in an earthy, natural aesthetic, with shades inspired by the sand and sea. For dining, the past meets the present with an array of traditional Saudi Arabian flavours ever present in the culinary offering. Much of the foodie action is housed around Sita, a sensational indoor-outdoor Middle Eastern restaurant that faces the ocean. But guests can also embrace an array of flavours at Mediterranean restaurant Jamaa; and seafood-focused, Tabrah. Edu-tainment is high on the agenda, and as such, a conservation centre offers insight into Saudi Arabian culture, community and environment through a breadth of inspiring and interactive activities. And inspired is exactly how I feel as I depart the Red Sea. By its natural beauty, by its intuitive service, and by its passion to challenge the perception of both luxury tourism, and Saudi Arabia.

NEED TO KNOW

•Flydubai flies direct to Red Sea International Airport (RSI) on Thursdays and Sundays. Fares start from Dhs3,000 return. @flydubai

•Rates for Six Senses Southern Dunes start from Dhs2,875 per night. @sixsensessoutherndunes

•Rates for The St. Regis Red Sea Resort start from Dhs5,278 per night. @thestregisredsea

•Rates for Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve start from Dhs8,040 per night. @nujumareserve visitredsea.com

Nujuma

Nujuma, Tabrah

Nujuma, Neyrah Spa

Nujuma, Overwater Villa

Words: Manaal Fatimah

EOman

Rediscovering

Here’s what’s new and happening next door…

xciting things are brewing next door. Oman is perhaps the most popular regional destination for us UAE folk to escape to when the mood for a speedy holiday strikes. It’s not too far, but far enough to feel like you’re getting away from routine, and the vast land is gorgeous, with sun, sand, sea, and a cherry of serenity on top.

Featuring plenty of natural beauty, with wadis, valleys, mountains, beaches, far flung historic corners and sleepy coastal fishing towns to explore, you shouldn’t need a cue to pack your bags for the neighbouring Sultanate. But if there had to be one – then the growing hospitality landscape is it. Let’s take a look...

NEW STAYS

Mandarin Oriental, Muscat

The impressive collection of international Mandarin Oriental hotels has a brand new addition – a jazzy capital location in the Sultanate of Oman. Growing the group’s portfolio to 40 hotels globally, the property is bringing the exceptional Mandarin Oriental quality with the warmth of Omani hospitality. Backed by the Hajar Mountains, Mandarin Oriental Muscat comes with world-class dining, a spa and authentic Omaniinspired experiences.

The location is prime – in the heart of the city in Shatti Al-Qurum, and the design of the urban resort and branded residences is flanked by sweeping views of the Arabian Sea. Qurum is the historical neighbourhood of Muscat, full of age-old buildings, alleys and a wealth of vibrant culture and heritage – so it provides the perfect base for a culture-packed summer of exploration.

The 103 rooms and 47 suites take notes from the natural beauty of the country, using materials like desert rose marble and ashwood that add to the allure. Inside, gourmands can look forward to dining around five restaurants, pampering at The Spa and more. Rates from Dhs1,470. @mo_muscat

The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat Resort

The St. Regis brand is well-known for top notch quality and now Oman is getting a taste of that. Say hello to The St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat.

The stunning property is a beach retreat, nestled along 360 metres of beautiful blue coastline of Al Mouj Beach. Adding a touch of luxury to the shores of the Sultanate, the resort has 250 rooms and suites and a choice of beachfront or golf course views.

Other high-end facilities include a branded Guerlain Spa, padel court, facilities to go diving, a range of water sports and nine signature dining establishments to complete the experience. You will also find a fullyequipped fitness centre, multiple swimming pools, cigar bar, designated zones for the kids to entertain themselves and private beach access.

Rates from Dhs1,385. @stregismuscat

3 MORE HOTELS COMING SOON

AIDA

Perched on the hilltops of Muscat, Oman, Aida is a unique clifftop development, fearuring two hotels of 450 rooms, a plaza filled with world-class restaurants, luxurious retail, an 18hole golf club, wellness centres, gyms, private infinity pools, and a gorgeous outdoor landscape looking onto the Gulf of Oman.

Debuting at the end of the year in Yiti Bay will be Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Muscat. The hotel will feature 140 stunning rooms and suites, plus 30 villas complete with private pool, and a signature beach club.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT & PRIVATE RESIDENCES MUSCAT

The Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Muscat, Oman will be split into a stylish, seaside 200-room resort and a collection of 100 private residences. Perched on the seafront, visitors will get to enjoy both Oman’s rugged landscapes and crystal clear Arabian sea on the resort’s doorstep.

MORE SUMMER EXPERIENCES

If luxury hotels are not your thing, fret not, for there is lots to do in Oman that make the most of the great outdoors (and cooler climes)…

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is located in the namesake fishing village, in Ras Al Hadd, along the eastern shores of the Arabian Peninsula. It’s largely untouched, a well-kept tourism secret, much like Oman itself. Due to its undisturbed nature, it remains as a pure, pristine location where you can witness the fascinating nesting process of the rare Oman sea turtles. The reserve prohibits the use of light from several kilometres away leading up to the area, so as to not scare the turtles and disrupt their natural behaviour. Under the cover of the night sky, visitors are offered guided tours of the beach, where you can view the turtles without disruptions and without any street lights, a spectacular vision of stars, celestial bodies and bioluminescent waves that illuminate the way for you.

@rasaljinz_turtlereserve

Wakan Village

Hiking to a village may not seem the most appropriate during the summer season, but Wakan is an exception, because 1,500 metres above the sea level, the weather is several degrees cooler. At these heights, conditions are still good during summer, and the village is a real-time picture of historical Omani life. It lies on the slopes of the Wadi Mistal mountains in Nakhal, and the journey includes a car ride up a mountain and then 700 steps winding through the village to the peak.

Wakan is frozen in time – that is the charm. The residents, all 162 of them, are mostly of advanced age, 70s and 80s, refusing to come down to the city and abandon their way of life like their successive generations. You’ll see terraced gardens and orchards of pomegranates, apricots, peaches and dates, mud houses and children selling raw harvested honey on the step-side. It’s a magical time capsule. @experienceoman

NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA MUSCAT

Words: Tamara Wright

AMaldives POSTCARDS FROM…

place of dreams for many, the Maldives promised paradise. Yet, my first visit revealed a reality so truly beautiful and luxurious, it far surpassed even my highest expectations. Though our trip fell during the ‘low season’ from May to November, often associated with rain and clouds, I was prepared for a much-needed escape from the sweltering Dubai summer heat. After 10 days of warm air and sunshine, it turns out the Maldives is never a bad idea…

Of course, there’s the common allure of the crystalline blue waters and gleaming white-sand. And, while no pictures could have ever prepared us for the undeniable raw beauty, what this stunning Indian Ocean archipelago really offers is so much more.

GETTING THERE

Return flights from Dhs7,422 per person. flybeond.com

Comprising 1,200 tiny islands, the Maldives is awash with magical five-star resorts. And now there’s a new generation of Maldives hotels taking hospitality to the next level, as well as proving that even the most luxurious and indulgent of places can be regenerative and sustainable. Whether you spend your time swimming alongside turtles and sharks or lying under the shade of a palm tree – or a bit of both – the chances of you leaving bored or disappointed are slim to none. Here, your days are large blank (turquoise) canvases that you can paint with as much adventure or relaxation as you wish.

Our peaceful getaway began long before we touched down in Malé thanks to Beond, a new Maldives-based, all-premium-class airline. Flying direct from Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), this boutique airline redefines luxury travel with its competitive pricing and exclusive private-jet-style experience. From the moment we arrived at the airport, Beond’s swift hassle-free check-in and personalised service perfectly set the tone for the rest of our extraordinary Maldivian adventure. Onboard, we enjoyed luxury amenities like iPads and noise-cancelling Beats headphones, as well as a delectable (locally sourced) three-course meal served on restaurantquality dinnerware.

A postcard from… Alila Kothaifaru

“It’s the people that make a place”, couldn’t be a truer saying for Alila Kothaifaru. Situated on a private island located on the northern edge of the Maldives, Alila – which opened just two years ago – has managed to do the impossible and be as stunning as its surroundings. Hidden amongst jungle foliage and swaying coconut palms, the resort is made up of beach villas and overwater villas, all with private pools and either sunrise or sunset views. With the focus on preserving nature, the clever indoor-outdoor architecture and understated yet elegant décor throughout creates a feeling of complete privacy and ultimate relaxation.

We emerged from our jungle hideaway for long, laid-back breakfasts at the allday poolside restaurant, Seasalt. There’s both a buffet and à la carte options served on the shaded terrace, perfect for taking in the panoramic sea views. The service here is second to none, and staff members know the names of all guests.. Families and couples coexist peacefully between six dining options, a kids’ club,

water sports and dive centre, treetop spa, and yoga pavilion (with a dedicated butler to help manage it all).

Work up an appetite snorkeling with turtles and rays at the colourful house reef – a must-try experience at Alila thanks to the abundant marine life – before discovering an authentic dining experience that’s just as enchanting: a lazy lunch at the Spice Garden. Using handpicked herbs and vegetables from the garden, you’ll cook alongside chef Muhammed and our lovely local server Maaish to create a wholesome three-course meal complemented with organic wines in a tranquil setting.

The novelty of waking up to the sound of waves and staring out at the dreamiest turquoise ocean never wore off. But it’s the relaxed, warm, and caring staff and impeccable level of service that make Alila stand out from the rest.

Rates from Dhs2,153 per night inclusive of daily breakfast. @alilamaldives

Best for: Couples, families, and diving enthusiasts

45-minute seaplane from Malé

A postcard from… Six Senses Kanuhura

Best for: Luxe seekers, wellness lovers, and families

If you look up ‘paradise’ in the dictionary, there’s a good chance you’ll see an image of Six Senses Kanuhura. Over the last 25 years, the hotels on this iconic island have changed hands three times. And we’re delighted they did. Building on the success of the beloved Six Senses Laamu, the newly opened sister resort, Six Senses Kanuhura, is a new chapter for the brand, offering a more modern interpretation of blissful island life.

Calm and tranquility wash over us as soon as our toes touch the island sand; with bags to ditch our shoes and bikes waiting for us with personalised wooden name tags. All the island’s accommodation was renovated and given the effortless Six Senses rustic-luxe touch, but much of the magic rests in the very special newly built Beach Retreats. Steps away from the Indian Ocean, these stylish two-bedroom villas feature private pools and large outdoor terraces, an indoor and outdoor rain shower, bright and spacious two-storey living space, colourful interiors and thoughtful touches inspired by the surrounding landscape, and incredible amenities from yoga mats to (our favourite) homemade lemongrass aloe vera gel. The attention to detail here is truly impressive.

The culinary journey encompasses seven restaurants including Drift, a delicious seafood shack set on the uninhabited island of Jehunuhura; and all-day eatery, The Market, for extensive breakfast spreads, freshly squeezed juices, fluffy pancakes, and a never-ending stream of coffee. But the pièce de resistance is The Point, a new addition to the island since the takeover, with an overwater Spanish tapas restaurant downstairs – perfect for watching passing sharks and rays with the help of friendly local server and passionate diver, Faris. Upstairs, there’s a sunset infinity pool with a swim-up bar to watch the Maldivian skies turn through varying hypnotising shades of pink.

As with all Six Senses resorts, there’s a huge focus on wellness, with facilities and features that go well beyond the remit of a traditional spa. There are eight treatment rooms, a nail bar, a biohacking recovery lounge, yoga and sound healing studio, sauna and steam room, outdoor hot and cold-water pools, and an alchemy bar where you can learn how to make natural Maldivian skincare products to take back home. When it comes to sustainability, Kanuhura leaves no stone unturned. The impressive ecological credentials are reflected both on and off the island from the rehabilitation of corals and marine life to the on-site hydroponic farm and orchid nursery. Even the little ones will get to explore the Earth Lab at the Grow with Six Senses kids’ club.

Whether you’re craving calm and a reconnection to yourself and nature or looking to experience everything this tropical haven has to offer, you will return to this barefoot hideaway, we’re sure of that.

Room rates from Dhs4,819 per night inclusive of daily breakfast. @sixsenseskanuhura

45-minute seaplane from Malé

For a rustic and authentic Maldives adventure, Ozen Life Maadhoo has long been a favourite for families and couples alike. The resort is conveniently located on the southern edge of the Maldives, just a short boat ride from Malé. In true Maldivian style, we were welcomed like it was our home with magical Boduberu drums, Champagne, and a relaxing foot ritual on arrival.

Ozen Life Maadhoo continues to pioneer innovations in sustainable hospitality with the recent opening on the new indoor hydroponic farm, serving guests fresh produce straight from farm-to-table. In fact: Eating here is taken very seriously and you can make the most of the fantastic offerings and

A postcard from… Ozen Life Maadhoo

Best for: Young groups, families, and foodies

45-minute speedboat from Malé (look out for dolphins)

five international restaurants with the all-inclusive Indulgence Plan. Notable dining experiences include the underwater restaurant, M6M, which showcases the best ingredients the ocean has to offer as if a story book is coming to life. But it was the flavours and memorable service at overwater Indian/Sri Lankan restaurant, Indoceylon, that blew us away (be sure to try the coconut fish curry).

A real treat for the palate.

We’re staying in a postcard-perfect beach villa, ideal for families and beautifully placed between the ocean and lush foliage. While we can never get bored of lying on the beach, Ozen Life Maadhoo has plenty of facilities so guests can be as active as they want – from daily snorkeling trips to themed parties, sunset cruise to the relaxing overwater spa.

For a wonderful hassle-free escape, this hotel delivers on food, service, facilities, value for money, and all-round vibes.

Room rates from Dhs3,416 per night all-inclusive ‘indulgence plan’.

@ozenlifemaadhoo

Indulge in the perfect getaway with your family this summer with our ultimate package, where kids can enjoy complimentary access to Yas Island’s record-breaking theme parks – Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World™, and Seaworld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Makahiya Fitness

UNAWATUNA, SRI LANKA

Words: Laura Coughlin but not alone

Venturing out on your own needn’t be lonely. What’s On rounds up group trips, retreats and experiences that are perfect for solo travellers

If you’re looking for the ultimate fitness retreat in South Asia, Makahiya is a winning choice. Perched between palm trees and paddy fields on Sri Lanka’s sunny south coast, Makahiya’s jungle gym sets the bar for workout holidays the world over. With boutique rooms, top-spec facilities and a tropical location like no other, it’s the perfect place to push yourself in paradise. Most people who join Makahiya come solo, but they quickly fall in love with the group fitness dynamic. It’s a place where you’re bound to make friends while achieving your fitness goals. makahiyafitness.com

Gulf4Good

VARIOUS

LOCATIONS

Whether climbing Kilimanjaro, volunteering in Uganda or trekking in Bhutan, this regionally based charity offers people from across the Gulf the chance to help others while at the same time overcoming personal fears by taking part in exciting adventures. Participants raise funds, which are then donated to charities in the region where the challenge is held. gulf4good.org

GREAT FOR: GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Lone Mountain Ranch

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, USA

Experience Yellowstone Country the most authentic way there is –on horseback. Setting off into the Montana wilderness on a horseback riding expedition is great for nature – and animal – lovers alike. At Lone Mountain Ranch Big Sky, you’ll have a taste of the Wild West as you make your way onto the trails. Ladies, consider booking the Cowgirl package, which is dedicated to solo female travellers. You’ll enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, horseback trail riding, guided tours into the national park, and live Western music. lonemountainranch.com

The Body Camp

MALLORCA, SPAIN

GREAT FOR: ORGANISED FUN AND WEIGHT LOSS

Set in a 25-acre private estate in stunning rural Mallorca, The Body Camp runs immersive group retreats incorporating high-intensity classes, mindfulness coaching and plant-based cuisine. Every participant takes part at their own level, an approach designed to help you break down personal barriers while building new connections. Focused as much on mental health as physical, retreats are open to all ages and abilities. Besides boutique accommodation, guests have access to a swimming pool, tennis court and running track, as well as a workout area and weights room. thebodycamp.com

Med Sailors

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Med Sailors offers skippered sailing holidays tailored for 20 to 35-yearolds. Each yacht accommodates eight people, with bunk-bed cabins shared by guests of the same gender. These tours are ideal for solo travellers, providing an instant group of friends on board, ensuring there’s always someone to join for kayaking or a drink. Guests can enjoy water sports like wakeboarding, participate in the weekly regatta, or simply relax on one of the sunbathing decks. Their sevennight cruise around Greece offers the perfect blend of party and relaxation. medsailors.com

GREAT FOR: MASTERING A NEW SKILL

Kite Worldwide

ESSAOUIRA, MOROCCO

GREAT FOR: LIVING OUT YOUR COWBOY/ GIRL DREAMS

GREAT FOR: MAKING MATES ON THE HIGH SEAS

Kite Worldwide provides packages specifically for beginners eager to try kitesurfing. These packages include a guide, 12 hours of instruction, and additional services such as launch and landing support. You’ll earn a basic qualification and enjoy the satisfaction of mastering a new sport. Located in the north-easterly trade winds, Essaouira on Morocco’s Atlantic coast offers ideal kitesurfing conditions from April to September, making it an excellent choice. Connect with fellow solo travellers as you navigate the shallows and learn the fundamentals together. kiteworldwide.com

Strel Swimming Adventures

TIVAT, MONTENEGRO

Strel Swimming Adventures welcomes solo swimmers in search of scenic holidays that allow you to reconnect with nature. Their outdoor swim tours take place in Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece and Turkey, and roughly half of participants are lone travellers. The six-day Montenegro fjords and coves trip gives you the chance to swim in former Yugoslavian submarine tunnels, explore the blue cave grotto and many stunning sheltered bays around Kotor and Tivat. After a tiring day in the water, guests have the chance to relax in a four-star hotel in Tivat. strel-swimming.com

Trek Travel

SUSSEX, UK

Cycling trips are perfect for solo travellers, giving you plenty of time with your thoughts while still being part of a small group. There are many tour operators specialising in bike trips, but try to book with a group that specialises in solo travel, like Trek Travel, a company with experienced guides, plus options to room either by yourself or with an arranged roommate. One of their most popular adventures is a fiveday ride through the Sussex countryside in the UK, with hundreds of miles of rolling hills, picturesque coastline and charming villages. trektravel.com

GREAT FOR: A FJORD SWIMMING ADVENTURE

Empowerment Retreats MUSANDAM, OMAN + VARIOUS LOCATIONS

These local retreats are a welcome tonic to city living. Empowerment Retreats gives you the power to heal over two blissful days discovering the foundations of breathwork, yoga and mental health in the beautiful scenery of Oman. Keep an eye on their Instagram for upcoming retreats and other evening sessions in the UAE.

@empowermentretreatofficial

Wildfitness MENORCA, SPAIN

GREAT FOR: GETTING BACK TO NATURE AND RECONNECTING WITH THE OUTDOORS

Hiking ancient paths, mastering the slingshot, swimming in the Med: retreats with Wildfitness aren’t your ordinary workout holiday. Housed in an 18th Century farmhouse on the south coast of Menorca, the philosophy here is fitness set free. Wildfitness specialises in taking your usual gym-based workout and moving it out into the open air. But instead of dumbbells, yoga mats and sweaty gym equipment, you’ll be using the natural environment – think rocks, trees and mountains – to facilitate your workout instead. Groups engage in three or four movement sessions per day, which might mean yoga, beach games or lifting boulders. A private chef helps you refuel by rustling up organic meals, while daily workshops introduce you to the concepts key to a wilder mindset.

wildfitness.com

Attractions

Activities

Dining Health

Education

Entertainment Real

Hotels

motivatemedia.com

Summer DESTINATION:

From new routes to discover animal-tastic Africa, to returning routes that take you into the heart of Europe’s buzzing beach towns, let these summer flight plans inspire where your travels take you this season

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin

Athens, Greece from Sharjah

Airline: Air Arabia

Return rates: from Dhs1,700

In recent years, Greece has become the destination du jour for many UAE travellers – whether they’re dreaming of vacations packed with relaxation, exploration, or gourmet delights. The Greek capital of Athens offers all three in spades, and is reachable via a new flight route with Air Arabia that launched on June 28. Taking off four times per week from Sharjah, it invites travellers to discover cultural big-hitters like the Acropolis, Temple of Poseidon, and The National Gardens. When you’ve had your fill of history, escape the sweltering city heat in favour of the Athens Riviera, where you can get a taste of local coastal life with days on the beach, stays at some of the city’s top hotels, and sampling the delights of the myriad waterfront eateries. airarabia.com

Malaga, Spain from Abu Dhabi

Airline: Etihad

Return rates: from Dhs3,490

Basel, Switzerland from Dubai

Airline: flydubai

Return rates: from Dhs1,500

From August 2, flydubai will offer a four times weekly service to Basel’s EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, a unique gateway to not one – but three – different countries and their impressive cultural and culinary offerings. The northwestern Swiss city, perched on the border of the Alsace historical region in France and Baden-Württemberg in Germany, sits pretty on the banks of the river Rhine. A cultural capital with bags of historic and modern architecture to admire, visitors are also encouraged to retreat to the rolling Swiss countryside, an unmissable part of any Basel itinerary.

flydubai.com

Etihad’s flights to the Spanish city of Malaga have now resumed for the summer, with a thrice weekly service inviting you to embark on a sun-soaked Spanish getaway. Malaga provides a gateway to the Costa Del Sol, the province of Andalucia, an electrifying world of passion cuisine, pristine beaches, coastal adventures, Iberian soirées, and unlimited portions of paella, live at the source. etihad.com

Nice, France from Abu Dhabi

Airline: Etihad

Return rates: from Dhs2,890

The UAE’s National Airline operates a twice weekly service between Abu Dhabi and Nice over summer. The flight takes off on Wednesdays and Saturdays between Zayed International Airport and Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. Offering the perfect opportunity for a long weekend on France’s south coast, this slice of European paradise is renowned for its famous waterfront. Nice boasts a scenic seven-kilometre walkway known as the ‘Promenade des Anglais’. The route also provides a gateway to an alluring string of glitzy, ritzy resort towns, including Antibes, Cannes and Saint-Tropez. etihad.com

Olbia, Italy from Dubai

Airline: flydubai

Return rates: from Dhs3,400

Returning for a second year is flydubai’s thrice weekly flight to Sardinia. This serves as a gateway to northeastern Sardinia, where endless glamour and rugged natural beauty are the surprise siblings that give this island its unique magic. Sweeping golden beaches lapped by inviting turquoise waters; plucked-from-apostcard Porto Cervo, with its designed boutiques and upscale restaurants; and high-end marinas dotted with mega yachts, are all part of the allure. flydubai.com

Sochi, Russia from Dubai

Airline: flydubai

Return rates: from Dhs2,500

For summer sojurns to Sochi, a direct flight with flydubai takes off three times per week until September. The coastal charms of this seaside resort make it an ideal destination for a beach break on the Black Sea, where golden sands, lush forests, flowing waterfalls, and striking mountain landscapes offer the most scenic of backdrops. There’s an abundance of cultural and historical sites to explore – like the art and history museums, as well as sochi Aboretum, one of Russia’s most beautiful nature reserves. flydubai.com

Nairobi, Kenya from Abu Dhabi

Airline: Etihad

Return rates: from Dhs1,290

There’s a wealth of bush, beach and natural beauty to explore in Kenya, a beautiful nation full of rolling savannahs and home to an incredibly diverse, abundant wildlife. The Maasai Mara National Reserve is just a onehour flight from Nairobi, perfect for wildlife lovers. And in case you missed it, this January Kenya opened up for visa free travel, making it that bit more accessible for all. etihad.com

Bodrum, Turkey

Bodrum’s popularity as an alluring summer destination has only grown in recent years, and this gateway to the Turkish Riviera is lined with luxurious hotels, ritzy restaurants and designer bars. But away from the glitzy parts that have become commercialised lies a coastline dotted with hidden islets and golden beaches flanked by the Aegean Sea. Between June and mid-September, flydubai invites you to discover it all with a daily flight.

RETURNING ROUTES TO SIZZLING SUMMER HOTSPOTS

Mykonos, Greece

The Greek ‘Island of Light’, Mykonos, is many things – glamorous, hedonistic, nocturnal, paradisal, and extravagant – which is why many UAE dwellers flock to its shores for the same lively party circuit they know and love in Dubai. But this dreamy isle is also a soothing odyssey for the soul, with its endless blue hues, sandy beaches, and pretty architecture. Both flydubai and Etihad fly direct this summer.

Santorini, Greece

This stunning slice of Cyclades beauty is one of the world’s most romantic destinations, with its whitewashed villages, blue-topped domes, sparkling, Aegean sea, and shorefront dotted with cosy tavernas. Reach the isle this summer with direct flights under five hours with flydubai, Wizz Air, and Etihad.

The pieces to pack whether you’re travelling for White Isle wellness, or the hedonistic Balearic party scene…

Compiled by: Alice Holtham-Pargin

Cult Gaia clutch, Dhs1,612. revolve.com

Valere earrings, Dhs800. thatconceptstore.com

Celine sunglasses, Dhs2,050. ounass.ae

Never Fully Dressed shirt, Dhs470. sanddollardubai.com

Jondal sarong, Dhs480. secondsummerlabel.me

Missoni swimsuit, Dhs2,070. farfetch.com

Zip hoodie, Dhs599. thegivingmovement.com

Ray Ban aviators, Dhs760. levelshoes.com

Anita’s hat, Dhs249. namshi.com

Safari chic in the Masai Mara

Elevate your wardrobe for spotting the big five, with practical pieces that don’t compromise in the style stakes

by: Alice

Lululemon backpack, Dhs350. lululemon.me

Adidas Stan Smith & Other Stories Skirt, Dhs449. stories.com

Chic Le Frique linen set, Dhs569. chiclefrique.com

Lightweight scarf, Dhs119. ae.hm.com

Compiled

Holtham-Pargin

A dreamy tropical island escape to the Maldives

Whether you’re swimming alongside sharks or basking under the shade of a palm tree, here’s everything you need to pack for the perfect beachy break…

Compiled by: Tamara Wright

Sunnylife underwater camera, Dhs113.39, revolve.com

Manifest book by Roxie Nafousi, Dhs61.96, amazon.ae

Tory Burch, Kira Quilted Geometric Sunglasses, Dhs720,

Sand Dollar fedora hat, Dhs590, sanddollardubai.com

Massimo Dutti leather cord belt, Dhs429, massimodutti. com

Farm Rio, flower scarves sarong, Dhs505, farmrio.com

Rat & Boa, Antheia Dress, Dhs1,414, us.ratandboa.com

Suncillo Bianca Shiny bikini top and bottoms, Dhs920,

Enso ‘Momentum’ earrings, Dhs1,500, ensodesignlab. com

U-Beauty The Super Intensive Face Oil netaporter

netaporter.com

Sporty & Rich baseball cap,

karenwazen.com

Dr. Barbara Sturm SPF 50 sun drops, Dhs618, ae.apothecabeauty.com

ae.apothecabeauty.com

Second Summer, ‘Anais’ wide leg linen trousers, Dhs795, secondsummerlabel.me

H&M long halterneck dress, Dhs299, ae.hm.com

LOCH water bottle (650ml), Dhs165, loch.life

H&M, crossbody straw bag, Dhs99, ae.hm.com

A pretty Parisian city break From walks along the Seine to wine-fuelled lunches, master summer in the City of Love with our chic yet practical must-haves…

Compiled by: Tamara Wright

Comme Des Garçons, Play x , Dhs650, levelshoes.com

Missoma pearl hoop earrings, Dhs500, ounass.ae

Airstrait hair straightener, Dhs1,999, dyson.ae

Dyson

Destination dining

We asked our favourite Dubai foodies for their top restaurants across the globe

Words: Shelby Gee and Manaal Fatimah

If you’re still wondering where to go this summer, but a foodie break is top of your agenda, we’re here to inspire you. From favourite foodie cities to the best dishes, we asked top Dubai foodies for their most memorable meals from around the world…

@LidijasKitchen

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai?

I was born in Montreal and have been living in Dubai for 19 years.

What is your favourite restaurant from around the world?

There are far too many to mention. But one that’s close to my heart is Sur Balik in the Chiangir district of Istanbul. The fish and seafood are impeccable, some of the best I’ve ever had. The service is warm and friendly, the restaurant is elegant without being pretentious and it overlooks the Bosphorus.

@foodsheikh

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai? Originally from England, but I’ve been in Dubai since 2003 – 21 years. I arrived when the hottest F&B concept in town was Japengos! While on your travels, anywhere in the world, which restaurant has become your favourite?

I can only recall recent restaurant experiences – I think it’s some kind of defence mechanism. With that in mind, Burnt Ends (pictured above) in Singapore was pretty good. As was an upscale Izakaya in Tokyo called Sowedo.

@mrandmrsbrunch

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai? We are from Reading and Bedford respectively in the UK, but have both been in Dubai since 2009, so coming up to 15 years. What’s your favourite foodie city?

All the B’s… it’s a very close tie between Barcelona and Bangkok. However, the range of culinary options at both ends of the price spectrum puts Bangkok just ahead for us.

@itsliamcollens

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai?

I am originally from Trinidad and Tobago, I’ve been in Dubai for nine years.

What is your favourite foodie city?

I don’t have a favourite food city, but Copenhagen was my last trip dedicated to just eating in as many places as we could. We ate 90 courses in about 60 hours! Copenhagen is famously food-centric with fine dining options (Noma, Geranium, Alchemist) but there are tonnes of casual dining spots (Juju) from smørrebrød (Selma), and excellent bakeries famous for cardamom buns and more (Alice’s, Juno and Hart).

@foodwriterdan

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai? I’m originally from Yorkshire, UK and moved to Dubai 13 years ago.

What is your favourite foodie city?

Probably Singapore. There’s such a rich mix of cuisines - from rugged BBQ / fire-based cooking at Burnt Ends, to classic French techniques marrying harmoniously with local flavours at Odette (pictured above), to the chaos of the hawker stalls. It’s just magical.

@foodiva

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai?

I am Greek-Cypriot-British, born in Cyprus, and moved to Dubai from London 25 years ago. Can you share with us one of your all-time favourite dishes? When I think of memorable dishes, comfort food always springs to mind. One of the best things I have ever eaten is the fluffy crab omelette at Jay Fai hawker stall in Bangkok. It really lives up to the Michelin hype. Mammoth, moreish and umamiladen.

@micobanua

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai?

I am originally from the Philippines and have been in Dubai for eight years. Can you share with us one of your favourite recent foodie discoveries? Xoi Com in Hanoi. The stir-fried beef with thien ly flowers. The tender beef is combined with delicate, slightly sweet flowers, creating a rich and aromatic dish.

@duck.the.diet

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai? I am originally from Lebanon and have been in Dubai for almost a year. What is your favourite overseas restaurant discovery?

While travelling, my favourite restaurant has been L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele in Naples, Italy. The Prosciutto e Funghi pizza really stood out for me. The combination of savoury prosciutto, earthy mushrooms, and the perfect chewy Neapolitan crust, often filled with cheesy ingredients, is simply unforgettable.

@justfooddxb

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai? I was born in Cyprus but grew up in the South West of England. I moved to Dubai in 2014 and have lived here ever since.

What is your favourite foodie city? So far, London. It has an enormous variety of restaurants for every possible cuisine. It also has a fantastic street food scene. Food markets such as Spitalfields and Borough Market are home to some of the best dishes I’ve had and are very affordable.

@satisfieddubai

Where are you originally from, and how long have you been in Dubai? I’m originally from Manchester, England, and I’ve been fortunate to call Dubai home for the past 13 years. What is your favourite foodie city? Mexico City. Famous for its street food, tacos, and vibrant flavours, Mexico City is a must-visit for food lovers.

@onelatteplease_dxb

Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Dubai? I am from Mumbai, India and have lived in Dubai for over 15 years. While on your travels, which restaurant has impressed you the most? Gaggan. I recently visited his chef’s table and it was a phenomenal experience! The deconstructed chole bhature is a take on a North Indian dish of spiced chickpea and wheat flour bread. A wonderful little pocket filled with so much flavour that’s deepfried to perfection.

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BODRUM p54 | CAPRI p56 | SOUTH OF FRANCE p62

THE RITZY RISE OF

Bodrum

Move over Mykonos and Marbella – Bodrum is the new European party paradise, and it’s the place to be this summer

Words: Shelby Gee

Along the sandy shores of the south-western side of Turkey, tucked into the Aegean coast the alluring resort town of Bodrum sits pretty on the shorefront. Over the last few years, its become a summer hotspot for those looking to see and be seen, complete with a string of luxury hotels, renowned restaurants and beach clubs. And this season, there’s plenty of newness to look forward to.

STANDOUT STAYS

BOBO BY THE STAY

Bobo by The Stay is perched high above the sparkling waters of the coast, offering exclusive access to Cannet Bay. This adults-only resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and is set to be home to countless nightlife experiences with international DJs. Naturally, the resort is also home to incredible restaurant experiences and a spa, as well as a private guest-only beach club, Bobo Beach, where sun loungers are sprawled along the secluded coast.

Rates from Dhs2,993 per night. @bobobythestay

MAXX ROYAL BODRUM

One of Bodrum’s most hotly anticipated new stays is now inviting guests to enjoy its dazzling slice of Turkish Riviera reverie. An elevated resort experience on the north shores, it features an impressive collection of all-suites and villas, built into the pretty cliffside in contemporary buildings. Guests can dine at a string of six starry restaurants, including Dubai-born The MAINE (see p55), plus Spago by Wolfgang Puck and Caviar Kaspia. A 4,500sqm wellbeing centre goes far beyond the spa basics, delivering a medi-spa experience across 20 treatment rooms, a Turkish bath, hydro and relaxation spaces.

Rates from Dhs4,960 per night. @maxxroyalbodrum

YALIKAVAK MARINA HOTEL BY SOCIAL LIVING

Now welcoming guests for its second season is the jewel in the crown of the Yalikavak Marina, this picturesque property is part of the Social Living Collection of hotels from Dubai-born Sunset Hospitality. With breathtaking alfresco features that frame Yalikavak’s iconic flame-hued sunsets, the hotel’s array of guest rooms includes some of Bodrum’s most sumptuous suites. A 25-metre pool is a sensational spot for tan-topping and socialising, while the high-energy dining options located in the nearby marina include outposts of global hotspots, Nusr-Et, Novikov, and Zuma.

Rates from Dhs1,808 per night. @yalikavakmarinahotel

PLAY HERE

LUCCA BEACH

If you’re making your way through the beach club scene in Bodrum, then you have to make a pit stop at Lucca Beach, conveniently located in the Mandarin Oriental. It positioned itself as the place to see and be seen in Turkey since the early 2000s. The Bodrum beach club hit the ground running in 2022 as one of the busiest clubs on the scene. Ideal for sun-kissed days and exclusivity, the beach club might not be a wild night out, but you can guarantee an incredible afternoon in the sun.

@luccabeachbodrum

EAT HERE

THE MAINE

Homegrown marvel The MAINE has officially opened its doors in Bodrum. The restaurant invites guests to enjoy its award-winning fusion of classic grill fare, fantastic cocktails, and impressive live entertainment at a 150-seater dining space in the new Maxx Royal resort. Featuring similar dark, rustic interiors to its sister restaurant in Ibiza, it offers both indoor and alfresco seating. Lit almost entirely by candlelight, it’s set to be a sleek and sophisticated spot for both romantic dinners a deux and lively get-togethers with friends.

@themainebodrum

SCORPIOS BODRUM

The Mykonian-born beach club has entered a new era in Bodrum, opening a hotel-restaurant-beach-clubwellness space on a breathtaking peninsula on the Bodrum coast. The property houses two restaurants, a club house, and several brand firsts – including the brand’s first foray into accommodation. The 12 private suites, each with a private pool and lounge, are earthy and natural in design. There’s also a unique-to-Bodrum ‘Ritual Space’, featuring mindful movement classes, ice plunges and sound healing. And of course, with the brand DNA rooted in beach clubs, you’ll find a Scorpios Beach Club here, where guests can drink in Aegean Sea views and soulful DJ sets from their sun lounger or plush cabana.

@scorpios.bodrum

KITCHEN AT THE BODRUM EDITION

Although not new, Kitchen is a restaurant worth adding to your Bodrum itinerary thanks to its heavy focus on local ingredients that earned the restaurant a Michelin Star when the guide added Bodrum to its map last year. Zero waste cocktails are shaken up using local ingredients, and the resort’s gardens produce many of the herbs that give final touches to the menu.

@thebodrumedition

GETTING HERE

flydubai offers daily flights to Bodrum until September 8, with return fares from Dhs2,400. flydubai.com

Capri

THE CAPTIVATING CHARM OF

A long-revered island treasure, the rich and famous have been flocking to Capri since the 1950s. But there’s two sides to this island, each with their own allure. In sleepier Anacapri comes the opportunity to bask in the natural beauty, enjoy strolls in the charming villages, and embrace quiet luxury at one of the island’s grand dame hotels. In Capri Town, visitors pack the town to snap up pieces at the fashionable boutiques, dine at the storied restaurants, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Marina Grande

Words: Alice Holtham-Pargin

ANACAPRI

The hero stay: Jumeirah Capri Palace

If a hotel were to personify its destination, few do it better than Jumeirah Capri Palace. A winding path of perfectly landscaped gardens, dotted with swaying palms and pretty purple bougainvillea leads you up from Piazza Vittoria (Anacapri’s main square) to the distinct façade of Jumeirah Capri Palace. Dubbed the white museum, it’s gloriously grand but in an understated way, its vast columns and whitewashed welcome spaces flood with natural light, dotted with bold artworks and lavish floral displays that are glamorous but not gaudy. The guest welcome is enthusiastic and genuine, and it’s impossible to decline a welcome glass of homemade lemonade

or Prosecco as you’re taken on a tour of the property by the smiling reception team.

The lush, tropical feel continues out to the sea-facing garden, where burnt orange loungers surround the temperature-controlled swimming pool, its floor tiled in shades of turquoise and aquamarine, laced with shimmering mother of pearl, the work of Italian artist Velasco Vitali. It’s also ever-present at the Capri Medical Spa, the hotel’s unique wellbeing space that has become a renowned destination in Capri in its own right. The home of the hotel’s patented ‘Leg School’ treatment (Dhs750), developed over 25 years by the late Professor Francesco Canonaco, it’s a multi-step treatment

designed to oxygenate leg tissue and improve circulation, as well as offering a whole host of other health benefits. It starts with the application of a clay mud from volcanic Ischia, infused with 26 medical plants, followed by being wrapped in cold leg bandages. To finish, you’ll walk ten times briskly through a hot water channel (set at 38°C), then patiently stroll through an 18°C old channel.

The culinary offering is a fusion of the old and new. The rooftop has been transformed into a chic Japanese izakaya, with the influence of global powerhouse Zuma drawing guests from across the island. But the culinary jewel in the crown remains L’Olivo, the island’s only 2 Michelin Star restaurant. Dining here feels like starring in your own Hollywood movie, thanks to the sorbet-hued sunset, expert staff suited up in crisp white linens, and the sounds of melodic piano renditions of Hallejujah, Imagine, and Sway. Guests sip on glasses of bubbly served from a sparkling trolley, and embark on multi-course tasting menus that include dishes like a delicate cube of tuna belly with jalapeno and buffalo yoghurt, a tender lamb loin with ginger scented sweetbread, and impossibly light chocolate souffle.

Then there’s the 68 guest rooms, each a sanctuary of contemporary islandinspired luxury and all coming with either sea or garden views. The hotel’s storied history – dating back some 60 years – is proudly played out in black and white photographs from the island’s yesteryear across the walls, and handmade ceramic tiles in patterns of white and blue ooze that quintessential southern Italian aesthetic. Guests wrap up in fluffy Frette robes, and a sunken tub under the window that faces out towards the Bay of Naples of our seafacing Executive Suite is a befittingly regal addition to the tranquil and luxurious space. Room rates from Dhs4,821. @jumeirahcapripalace

EAT: Zuma

A splashy restaurant that needs no introduction, Zuma added Capri to its collection of summer pop-ups last year. Taking over the third-floor rooftop of Jumeirah Capri Palace, it’s got all the classic ingredients of the brand: an open kitchen with sushi counter, a gorgeous bar, lively beats, and a masterful menu of modern Japanese dishes. But this Zuma is a little more laidback than most, befitting of its tranquil location, making it a beautiful spot for a sunset dinner.

@zumacapriofficial

PLAY: Il Riccio

The famed Il Riccio beach club and restaurant has provided delightful Instagram fodder since its collaboration with Dior sent it straight to the top of every travel influencer’s bucket list. But this clifftop restaurant – set next to and above the famed Blue Grotto – doesn’t rest on the laurels of its high-fashion décor. Its refreshing cocktails (try the blue curacao-based Il Riccio Spritz) are best enjoyed in the lounge, peppered with day beds and bar stools that make the most of the sea views. Then there’s the nautically-inspired restaurant, in endless shades of white and blue, complete with seafood-focused dishes such as a delicate caviar-topped scallop millefeuille and a generous plate of lobster pasta, and an aptly named ‘temptation room’ with dozens of homemade desserts to sedate any sweet tooth.

@ilricciocapri

SEE: Villa San Michele

A celebration of the life and works of the Swedish author, physician and architect Axel Munthe, Villa San Michele is now a museum, but was once the author’s beloved Capri home. In its first version it was ready in 1897 and attracted royals and creatives alike thereafter. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of historic Roman, Etruscan, and Egyptian artefacts that Munthe collected on his travels, while outside, lush, Mediterranean-inspired gardens come with some of the best vistas on the island. Entrance is Dhs39.

DO: The Capri chairlift

From Anacapri’s Piazza Vittoria, the charming central square, you can take a 13-minute round trip on the unique Capri chairlift, to Monte Solario, the highest point on the island. On a clear day, expect to drink in mesmerising views that stretch to neighbouring Naples, Ischia, and Sorrento. A round-trip ticket costs Dhs54.

CAPRI TOWN

The hero stay: Pazziella Garden & Suites

In concentrated Capri Town, it’s easy to feel suffocated among the throngs of tourists that pack the pretty piazzas and narrow streets, but those feelings meld away when you stroll down the bougainvillea-lined entrance to Pazziella Garden & Suites. A lush oasis nestled within the beating heart of Capri Town, checking-in feels like you’ve stepped into your own secret garden.

This beautifully boutique hotel is landscaped around a temperature-controlled pool and neatly kept garden and feels like the grand home of a family friend, as much as it does a four-star stay in the glamourous town. On one side, the original building houses the bright reception, a greenhouse-style restaurant, and a lovely bar, as well as most of the original rooms. A second building, a new addition across the garden that was renovated for this season, has added a further collection of rooms, including our own private pool suite. A small lounge leads through to the bedroom, both of which are adorned smartly in navy and crisp white. A tray of amenities

featuring traditional cakes and the signature Capri liqueur provides a lovely welcome. The expansive terrace in warm neutral hues features a plunge pool, chairs for dining alfresco, and loungers to bask in the rays as you listen to the sounds of chirping birds, occasionally interrupted by the backand-forth of a tennis ball on the courts just beyond the resort.

The homely feel extends from the aesthetic to the service, and a friendly team – many of whom are Capri locals – are on-hand to arrange boat trips, make restaurant recommendations, and whip up a custom-created mocktail when checking-on a particularly balmy day.

While there’s plenty of famous restaurants just a short stroll away, dining at P Garden shouldn’t be missed, where a handful of tables dot the garden terrace, and a menu of local flavours includes pacheri pasta with lobster and a tender beef fillet spiked with a hint of saffron. It’s here that guests return for breakfast, where a continental buffet of cold cuts, cheeses, freshly baked pastries and local fruits can be enjoyed alongside eggs cooked-toorder a dozen ways.

Room rates from Dhs3,893. @pazziellacapri

EAT: Paolino Capri

“Since 1960” the tagline at Paolino Capri says, a restaurant with likely as many stories to tell from its 64 years of operation as there are lemons hanging from the canopy of lemon trees that cover this pretty garden restaurant. A 10-minute drive from the Piazzetta (the main square in Capri town), it’s a lively restaurant where waiters bustle from table to table, serving up big bowls of pasta and sips of limoncello. @paolinolemontreescapri

DO: Gianni’s Boat Tour

There are few better ways to see the island of Capri than from the glassy turquoise water that surrounds it. With Gianni’s Boat Tours, you can hop aboard a private Gozzo (traditional boat), sipping on a bottle of prosecco as you marvel at the dramatic rocks, soaring cliffs, and colourful caves on a two-hour cruise around the island’s perimeter. Visit the famed Blue Grotto (weather permitting) or forgo the long queues for one of the less popular – but equally impressive – red, white or green caves.

@gianni_s_boats_capri

DRINK: Capri Rooftop

Arguably the best bar in Capri for stunning sea views is Capri Rooftop, set on the top floor of the Hotel Luna, adjacent to the grand Gardens of Augustus. You can only reserve a week in advance during high-season, and tables by the glass-walled edge of the bar are the most coveted for watching the string of yachts sail by the iconic Faraglioni Rocks.

@caprirooftop

PARTY: Taverna Anema E Core

This over-the-top live music tavern was first put on the Capri party map by the late owner, Guido Lembo. Now in the safe hands of his equally flamboyant son Gianluigi, sing-along live music sets are paired with sparkler shows, fancy dress costumes, and guests dancing on the tables with tambourines in hand. Expect to find yourself rubbing shoulders with some serious A-Listers.

@tavernaanemaecore

Fall for the

French Riviera

The French Riviera has long-been a luxurious haven for sun-seekers. From the glitz and glamour of Cannes to the jaw-dropping views of MonteCarlo, this stunning stretch of coastline offers endless opportunities for indulgence and relaxation. Take a journey through some of the hottest spots to eat, party, chill, and stay on the Côte d’Azur…

WHERE TO EAT

Lucia Cannes

From the team behind Nikki Beach comes Lucia, a vibrant new beachside restaurant with the same joie de vivre as its global powerhouse sibling. Named after the group’s co-founder and CEO, Lucia Penrod, this new spot is bursting with energy as the new kid on the croisette (block). With a vibrant open restaurant and lounge, colourful custom-designed parasols and chic sun loungers, Lucia hasn’t come in quietly. A supersized menu of Mediterranean delights offers options such as crudo de thon (Dhs95) and citrus sea bass tartare (Dhs105) to start and linguine vongole (Dhs115) or entrecôte panzanella (Dhs175) for mains. The dishes are light and refreshing, served on colourful plates by friendly, experienced servers. The beach area is intimate without being crowded, lined with pastelhued beach huts that serve as changing rooms. The sun loungers are priced by row and can only be reserved by guests of local hotels, otherwise are first come first served, starting from Dhs275 for the day. @lucia.cannes

Words: Elise Kerr

Zuma Cannes

Having just opened, the newest outpost of ever-popular izakaya, Zuma, is already abuzz. Found in a brand new luxury complex at the tip of Cannes’ Cap de la Croisette, Zuma joins LPM and Nammos to make Palm Beach the freshest hotspot for rubbing shoulders with the who’s-who of the French Riviera. The outdoor terrace provides one of the best views in the city, especially for sunset, as the amber skies stretch behind the foothills, deepening in colour as dusk draws to a close. Zuma’s menu is filled with the popular signatures from its other venues, with only one dish unique to this venue – a pavlova-like dessert topped with fresh seasonal fruit. Consistency must be Zuma’s middle name, as plates of maki and sashimi are delivered just as flawlessly as they do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The spicy tuna with chilli miso and yuzu tobiko (Dhs85) is a particular highlight, as is the wagyu tartare sushi with summer truffle (Dhs228), an interesting mix of perfectly seasoned raw wagyu wrapped in rice paper and topped with a delicate slice of truffle. In true Zuma fashion, the bar is soon filled with people glammed up and dancing to house beats. Despite opening just several weeks prior, it seems this breathtaking alfresco terrace has quickly become the place to be in Cannes. @zumacannesofficial

WHERE TO PARTY

Nikki Beach Monte-Carlo

Nikki Beach Monte-Carlo is a must-visit throughout the summer season. Its hedonistic vibe and elevated service combine to offer an experience you won’t forget. Located in Fairmont Monte-Carlo, the venue is located directly on the ‘world’s most famous bend’ –the hairpin of the Formula 1 track. A large central pool takes centre stage, surrounded by elegant white parasols and Nikki Beach’s signature boho-style furniture in the alfresco restaurant. Endless sea views provide a picturesque display on one side of the venue, while the hairpin and Monte-Carlo’s evergrowing skyline decorate the other. The resident DJ kicks things off from the early afternoon, as the space fills with locals and jet setting travellers here to enjoy the warm rays and good vibes. With double sunbeds from Dhs780 plus a bottle of wine, the price of a good time in Monaco doesn’t come cheap, but for an unforgettable day celebrating life, you can always rely on Nikki Beach to deliver. @nikkibeachmontecarlo

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo

There’s nothing quite like being in the heart of the action, and you can’t get much closer than Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo. Just a stone’s throw from the famed Monte-Carlo Casino, and directly next door to the Monaco outpost of Dubai’s homegrown restaurant success story, Gaia, this property is packed with prestige. With a history that dates back to 1886, the hotel is steeped in stories, told through the walls of its lobby, which are lined with masterpieces by Picasso and Andy Warhol.

With just 128 rooms and suites, Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo feels exclusive without being stuffy. Our spacious Deluxe Junior Suite overlooks the central courtyard and the long

driveway lined with supercars. The interiors reflect the heritage of the hotel, as warm neutral walls are accented with burnt orange curtains and cushions with a delicate floral pattern.

For an added touch of luxury, Spa Metropole by Givenchy is a haven within the heart of Monte-Carlo. Designed by architect Didier Gomez, guests are welcome to use the state-of-the-art fitness studio, serene relaxation room, hammam and sauna; or to really switch off, a number of de-stressing treatments are on offer.

In 2003, the late Karl Lagerfeld designed Odyssey, the hotel’s pool and alfresco restaurant, with its menu curated by chef Christophe Cussac. Throughout summer, chef Cussac has teamed up with talented founder-chefs, Manon Santini and Rocco Seminara, to bring the ZIA pop-up to Odyssey, which a special pizza menu served in a hidden garden at the far end of the pool.

Room rates in July start from Dhs4,340 per night. metropole.com

WHERE TO CHILL

PLAGE DE LA MALA, CAP-D’AIL

In the French commune of Cap-d’Ail, you’ll find a serene, secluded beach that has been described as the best in the French Riviera. Choose between the public section or the musicfilled private beach bars (sunbeds are Dhs120), although both offer the same view of crystal-clear waters and towering chalky cliffs. The trek down is easy-going, the way back up a little lessso, although still possible for novice hikers. Our favourite spot is a concrete bank on the left side, with direct access to the sea that saves you from having to walk on the small pebbles. Take a picnic and stay for sunset for the ultimate break from the Côte d’Azur’s hustle and bustle.

LA TÊTE DE CHIEN, LA TURBIE

Nicknamed The Dog’s Head, this is the ultimate spot for the best view of Monaco from above. If you have enough courage to trek before sunrise, you’ll be treated to an epic morning light as dawn breaks on the horizon; but the evening view is just as magical, with a warm glow bathing over both you and the vibrant city below. The best way up is to take a car to La Turbie observation deck, and walk through the rocky, overgrown pathway until you see signs for La Tête De Chien. The mountain edge is free and unmanned, so go with caution and wear sensible shoes.

Destination: Ibiza, Spain

Forgoing the traditional romantic honeymoon destinations, my husband and I will be heading off to Ibiza on our mini-moon this August. Part-thrill, partchill, we’ll be ticking off the hedonistic side of the island with a stay at El Hotel Pacha, now part of the Dubai-born FIVE Hotels & Resorts group, then getting in some R&R by checking-in to one of my favourite hotels on the island, 7Pines. – Alice Holtham-Pargin, Group Editor

Destination: Great Falls, USA

A homecoming up North is the centrepiece of everything I plan to get up to this summer, and that will include a long-overdue road trip to Great Falls. It’s been a while since I loaded up the truck with the crew and hit miles of open road, as I swap manmade marvels for the natural wonders I’ve spent the lion’s share of my youth around. Nothing like getting back to the basics, getting centred and leaving it all in the rearview mirror, with Mother Nature along for the ride –before I return to grab busy season by the horns. – Dinesh Ramanathan, Deputy Editor, What’s On Abu Dhabi

Destination: Brussels, Belgium

While I’ve been to many parts of Europe, I have never visited Belgium. My grandmother is Belgian and so naturally over the years, I have heard countless stories of my ancestry, interesting stories about my great grandfather going to school with what would be the future king, and stories of mistresses stealing stones out of jewellery and replacing them with glass. But this trip is for the purpose of meeting my partner’s family, learning about his heritage, and cooking dishes with his mum, while also learning a bit more about what my life could have been, had my grandma not emigrated to South Africa.

– Shelby Gee, Junior Reporter

Destination: Japan

The Land of the Rising Sun is absolutely on the top of my list of dream destinations to visit. There’s so much culture, so much to experience, see and learn about. The culture of Japan is so individual, so unique and not resembling any other – a system of society that has evolved so far ahead and yet one that’s still managed to remain so traditionally rooted. The natural beauty is unmatched, and you can have just as much of a city escape as a natural getaway. Of course, we all love the food – a good bowl of ramen fixes everything. Take me there. – Manaal Fatimah, Junior Reporter

Destination: Phuket, Thailand

For the first time in a while, my family aren’t going back to the UK over the summerwe’re saving that trip for sub-zero lols in December. Instead, we’re packing our bags for the Land of Smiles, and saying sawasdee krab to Thailand. It’s been a while since my last visit, and now with two kids along for the tuktuk ride, it will likely be considerably more wholesome. In with the bucket-and-spade kind of vibe, out with the buckets of voddy and oddly potent Red Bull. We’ll be hitting the beaches, going on jungle walks, visiting temples, wildlife sanctuaries and consuming as many litres of tom yum as is culturally acceptable. – Miles Buckeridge, Deputy Editor, What’s On Dubai

Destination: Tokyo, Japan

My family and I will be travelling together for the first time this summer, so we plan to visit Tokyo, Japan which we are absolutely looking forward to. This will be the perfect time for us to visit because we plan to enjoy the street festivals, seasonal food options, fireworks and flower displays. Apart from shopping, we’re also looking to tour popular tourist spots like Mount Fuji and the Asakusa Underground Shopping Street, and also explore the ancient Sensō-ji temple.

– Sheila Deocareza, Art Director

Destination: Amsterdam, Netherlands

While Nottingham, UK is a close second on my list, Amsterdam is at the top of my bucket list. My main goal when I visit later this year? See as many Vincent Van Gogh paintings, drawings, letters and sights as I can. I also found out that there are plenty of museums and experiences in Amsterdam dedicated to Rembrandt. So much so, that I just had to add an extra day to my trip. Need to remember to pack light as I will probably be coming back with 5kgs worth of souvenirs. Oh, and the painkillers, can’t forget those (hello 20,000 steps). - Aarti Saundalkar, Online Reporter

Destination: Maldives

This summer, instead of going back home to the UK or hopping around Europe, I’ll be making the most of the UAE’s convenient location within easy reach of many bucket list destinations and jetting off to the Maldives, snorkeling, sunbathing, and splashing all summer long. We’ll be resting our heads at three dreamy hotels over 10 days: Ozen Life Maadhoo, Alila Kothaifaru, and the Six Senses Kanuhura. Despite living in Dubai for five years now, it will be my first time venturing to this part of the world (which is just a short four-hour flight away) and I can’t wait to recharge, relax, and soak up all its natural beauty. – Tamara Wright, Online Reporter

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