Welcome To: Abu Dhabi 2004/05

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WELCOME TO ABU DHABI 2004/2005

W WELCOME TO ABU DHABI 2004/2005

W

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Reference: Material:

V–2012 Chronograph “Grande Date” Case in 18k white gold, also available in yellow gold, pink gold or platinum Automatic Chronograph, Big Date

Movement: Function:

DUBAI BRANCH (SHANGRI-LA HOTEL) – T. +971 4 3436663 – F. +971 4 3435900

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WELCOME TO ABU DHABI

Photographic Contributions Sunshine Tours Daren Bell

General Manager Ben Cohen Editor Sam McConnell

Niche Media Pty Ltd publications include: Welcome to Abu Dhabi Welcome to Australia Welcome to Austria Welcome to Dubai Welcome to New Zealand Welcome to Switzerland Welcome to Victoria South Africa Guest Information

Welcome to Abu Dhabi is published by Waiviata Pty Ltd ABN 89 005 557 873, a member of the Niche Group ABN 13 064 613 529 165 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia tel: +61 3 9525 5566 fax: +61 3 9525 5628

Sub-editor Lisa Starkey Tami Dower Design Leanne Savage Sales & Advertising InterCommunications Advertising

Australia & New Zealand Head Office Niche Media 165 Fitzroy Street St Kilda VIC 3182 Australia tel: +61 3 9525 5566 fax: +61 3 9525 5628 email: publisher@welcome-to.com

Managing Director Paul Lidgerwood

Production Manager Annie Darker

Finance Director John Clarke

Pre-Press Manfred Schmid Emma Meagher

South Africa Paul Levin & Associates P.O. Box 783708 Sandton 2146 South Africa tel: +27 11 726 7877 fax: +27 11 726 6461 email: palev@mweb.co.za

For all advertising inquiries relating to the Welcome To series, read by millions of affluent travellers each year, please contact the following:

Chairman & Group Publisher Nicholas Dower

Production Coordinator Rachelle Moore

Dubai / Abu Dhabi InterCommunications Advertising P.O. Box 55894 Dubai UAE tel: +971 4 2281 977 fax: +971 4 2231 732 email: adil1@emirates.net.ae

Art Director Keely Atkins

The Welcome To publications are distributed annually to the guest rooms of prestigious international hotels in the aforementioned countries. Other destinations will follow. While every endeavour is made to avoid errors, some information contained within may be superceded. The Publishers would appreciate advice of any changes which may occur after publication. This book is copyright 2004-2005. No part may be reproduced by any process without the written permission of the Publishers.

Scanning Stefan Berg Distribution Manager Melissa Devlin Arabic Editorial Co-ordinator Sandra Iskander

Please visit our website at www.welcome-to.com

ORDER YOUR COPY

Please leave this copy for future guests. To order your own copy, call +61 3 9525 5566 or visit www.welcome-to.com

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CONTENTS 012

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Celebrating the new edition of Welcome To Abu Dhabi.

016

A MODERN GARDEN CITY An evolving, sophisticated city.

024

FAST FACTS Essential facts for the traveller.

056

A COSMOPOLITAN FLAVOUR The very best of Abu Dhabi’s first class restaurants.

067

THE BUSINESS OF SHOPPING Exclusive brands and boutiques contrast with the hubbub of local souks.

078

WATCHES GALLERY The most prestigious watchmakers in the world display their finest.

090

JEWELLERY GALLERY A local guide to the world’s most exquisite jewellery.

098

LUXURY HOTEL GUIDE An index of stunning, first class hotels in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

104

ARABIC SECTION Dedicated to non-English speaking, Arab travellers.

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Piaget, the secret garden

PIAGET POLO

Piaget Boutique ABU DHABI, Al Manara Jewellery Hamdan Street, 02 6262629 www.piaget.com

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FEATURES 036

A LESSON FROM HISTORY From a village to a modern city, the history of Abu Dhabi is a story of vision and leadership.

040

DISCOVERING ARAB CULTURE Discover Abu Dhabi’s welcoming and honourable people.

042

THE QUEST FOR OIL The discovery of oil forever changed the fortunes of this old sea port.

044

THE GREENING OF ABU DHABI An introduction to some of Abu Dhabi’s key attractions.

046

A DESERT OASIS Al Ain has its own unique charm.

048

PLAYGROUND OF THE GULF Choose from a host of activities incorporating both the water and desert sands.

050

GOLF ANYONE? Abu Dhabi has a fine range of quality golf facilities.

052

NATURE’S WAY Be amazed by the unique Arabian fauna.

054

EXPLORING THE UAE Explore Abu Dhabi’s exotic neighbours.

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23/6/04

MESSAGE FROM ALI AHMED AL HOSANI

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ABU DHABI

It gives me great pleasure to

Abu Dhabi’s commercial and

Overlooking Abu Dhabi as a

welcome you to Abu Dhabi, the

tourist infrastructure is among the

travel destination may have

capital of UAE, a city of startling

best in the Middle East. More than

been easy in the past. Today, this

contrasts, fascinating sights, and

46 airlines from all quarters of the

is no longer possible. That is just

010

Ali Ahmed Al Hosani

astonishing achievements. With

globe land here en route between

as well because there is much to

many shopping centers, malls and

Europe and the Far East. Abu

see, and even more to do in this

bustling souks, Abu Dhabi is the

Dhabi has become a sunny

traditional but modern city, the

gateway to all welcomed visitors.

playground for holidaymakers and

capital of UAE Abu Dhabi.

It may not be such a revelation to

a centre for business and

say that the travel industry in Abu

investment. Luxury hotels vie

Dhabi is growing rapidly. However,

with one another to provide the

ALI AHMED AL HOSANI

what is also changing is our

most lavish facilities and

MANAGER TOURISM DIVISION

perception of the Gulf as a travel

absorbing entertainment.

SUNSHINE TOURS

destination. Abu Dhabi has gained

ABU DHABI NATIONAL HOTELS

recognition as a tourist attraction because of its natural beauty and cultural richness. Abu Dhabi is also acquiring a reputation for hosting international events and achieving the highest hospitality standards.

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A RT H O R L O G E R D E P U I S 1 7 3 8

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23/6/04

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

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ABU DHABI

Welcome To Abu Dhabi, one of the

a range of spectacular photographs

world’s most exotic and exciting

and informative articles. Learn

nations. With a diverse history, and

more about the history of Abu

in recent times, startling economic

Dhabi, its people and culture, the

growth, Abu Dhabi is a truly unique

discovery of oil and the massive

012

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

and prosperous country, and a

development occurring throughout

fantastic destination for tourists.

the country.

A simple stroll around the city

More importantly for many visitors,

reveals an oasis of lush green

there is also a wealth of information

parklands and spectacular

on the best shopping destinations,

buildings contrasted against the

where you can search for a

stark isolation of the desert sands

bargain or indulge in a more

and the sparkling beauty of the

exclusive luxury.

Arabian Gulf.

Whether you are visiting for a day

In Welcome To Abu Dhabi 2004-

or a month, you will love every

2005, we have tried to capture the

minute of your time in Abu Dhabi.

spirit of this ancient nation through

Sam McConnell Editor Welcome To Abu Dhabi

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25/6/04

12:35 PM

Page 015

Having developed an all-

disappoint its customers several

encompassing capability for

times due to all aircraft being

medical evacuation flights through

booked. As a result the company is

its specialised aircraft with

planning the purchase of more

advanced equipment and

aircraft to accommodate the

personnel, Royal Jet launched

015

demand for its services and had to

who require privacy and services of

increasing demand for its services.

a separate – and very successful -

FLYING REALITY

the highest standard. Royal Jet

Royal Jet's success is generally

operation called Royal Med.

Royal Jet is a 100 percent UAE-

flies its customers to their chosen

attributed to the way it was

This involved considerable

owned private charter Aircraft

destination, at their preferred time

established and its daily company

expenditure on equipping the

Company that was launched in May

and on their chosen schedule.

mantra “service excellence”. Having

company's aircraft with advanced

2003. Royal Jet provides special

Royal Jet’s aircraft can be

comprehensively researched local

critical care facilities to transform

services to customers wishing to

reconfigured to suit the customer’s

and international markets, Royal

them into functioning ambulance

charter luxurious planes for private,

needs and be ready for take-off to the

Jet assembled a team of highly

aircraft with intensive care

business, emergency and medical

required destination within two and a

competent professionals with

capabilities over long distance

flights. Royal Jet flights have been

half hours of confirming availability.

extensive experience in specialised

medical evacuations. Royal Med

designed to cater to the special

Royal Jet has received

air transport.

has its own critical care team,

needs of VIP customers,

"overwhelmingly positive customer

The result of all of this success

comprising fully trained aero-

businessmen and families alike,

feedback" and strengthening

today is Royal Jet's ability to provide

medical doctors and nurses with

a truly seamless service to VIP

experience and expertise in a wide

customers, from royalty, ministers

range of medical evacuations.

and celebrities to businessmen and

Having started initially as the

other individuals seeking absolute

exclusive Medevac provider for all

discretion in their travel.

UAE nationals, Royal Med is also

Royal Jet has also found its

looking to expand its medical

important role in emergency and

services to international

medical flights which, since the

insurances and alike.

PO Box 60666, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 575 7000 fax: (971 2) 575 5222 email: info@royaljetgroup.com sales hotline: (971 2) 505 1500 sales email: sales@royaljetgroup.com www.royaljetgroup.com

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16512_3

TURNING YOUR DREAMS INTO A

ROYAL JET

company's launch, have accounted for some 40 percent of operations.

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ABU DHABI

AIRLINES

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Page 016

A MODERN GARDEN CITY

016

ABU DHABI

A MODERN GARDEN CITY

TRADITION AND MODERNITY EXIST SIDE-BY-SIDE IN ABU DHABI. CAMEL RACES AND DESERT SAFARIS HAVE TOURISTS REACHING FOR THEIR CAMERAS, WHILE SUPERB FIVE-STAR HOTELS OFFER ALL THAT THE MODERN TRAVELLER NEEDS.

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23/6/04

4:08 PM

Page 018

018

ABU DHABI

A MODERN GARDEN CITY

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A

s visitors are whisked from the state-of-the-art airport

available - from perfumes and carpets to gold and electronics, at

towards Abu Dhabi city, the passing panorama of flat arid

some of the lowest prices in the world.

coastland is no preparation for the magnificent sight which

With a population close to 800,000, Abu Dhabi is a thriving

awaits them across the Al Maqtaa Bridge.

metropolis and one of the largest nations in the United Arab

The island capital of Abu Dhabi is a beautiful, modern garden city

Emirates (UAE). The UAE borders Saudi Arabia to the west and

graced with wide tree-lined boulevards, lush green parks, and cool

south and Dubai to the east, with 600 kilometres of Arabian Gulf

bubbling fountains.

coastline and a clutch of islands forming its northern boundary. Until

This is the first of many pleasant sights because Abu Dhabi is a

half a century ago, the UAE was impoverished and battling for

country of startling contrasts, fascinating culture and impressive

survival in a brutal environment. Today it is a prosperous country

achievement.

enjoying all the trappings of modern civilisation - plentiful water, air-

With many shopping centres, malls and bustling souks, Abu

conditioning, cars, free medical care, free education, the latest

Dhabi enchants all visitors.

goods and appliances - along with plenty of leisure time. Hotel

Top stars such as Brian Adams, Tom Jones and UB40 jet in to

restaurants offer a tremendous variety of cuisine, both international

Abu Dhabi to provide top-flight entertainment, while the retail stores

and local, from Italian, French, and Indian, to Arabic, Chinese,

have the latest from Europe. There is a wide range of merchandise

Mexican and Japanese.

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The New Concord Saratoga®. with signature crown protector. Luxury in stainless steel with diamonds.

Time is a luxury. The New Concord Saratoga.

(03) 7656875 áØ«∏N ï«°ûdG ´QÉ°T :Ú©dG • , (02) 6337800 ó«dƒdG øH ódÉN ´QÉ°T :»ÑXƒHCG • Al Ain Tel: 03 7656875

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Abu Dhabi Khalid Bin Al Walid St Tel: 02 6337800

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ABU DHABI’S COMMERCIAL AND TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE IS AMONG THE BEST IN THE MIDDLE EAST. MORE THAN 46 AIRLINES FROM ALL QUARTERS OF THE GLOBE LAND HERE EN ROUTE BETWEEN EUROPE AND THE FAR EAST. ABU DHABI HAS BECOME AS MUCH A SUNNY PLAYGROUND FOR HOLIDAY-MAKERS AS A CENTRE FOR BUSINESS

ABU DHABI

Dhabi, has initiated and followed a policy of greenification which is

020

A MODERN GARDEN CITY

AND INVESTMENT.

parks and gardens.

still being carried out. In the capital city, visitors can stroll past magnificent fountains along the beautiful Corniche gardens which border the coastline, or through the city’s many beautifully designed Al Ain is the proud birthplace of Sheikh Zayed’s father. A visit to this lovely city, its scenery enhanced by the beautiful Omani Mountains, is a must. The city’s growth over the past few years has been phenomenal, and the greenification programmes intense. Most of the country’s agriculture centres around the Al Ain area, and there are a number of experimental farms working to increase agricultural efficiency. In Al Ain you will find the camel market, the last of its kind in the UAE, and one which attracts dealers and customers from all over the However, beneath its recent urbanisation lies a country steeped in

Emirates as well as from Oman. Al Ain is also the home of a

the mystique of an ancient desert culture. Much of its territory

handsome university, established in 1977.

remains inhospitable. Crossing vast tracts of gravel scrub or pure

Outside the city is the village oasis of Buraimi with crumbling stone

sand flats is part of everyday travel in Abu Dhabi and heightens the

walls set among palm trees.

delight of suddenly arriving in a green paradise of irrigated farmland

Visitors can step back into the past with a walk through the cool,

or village oases.

green date groves and gardens behind the Buraimi souk. Nearby is

A drive through the capital city’s residential areas is pure magic.

Fossil Valley, which once, millions of years ago, lay beneath the sea

Visitors marvel at the wonderfully imaginative architecture shown in the

and where a keen search through the sand and rock formations will

fine villas and palaces which have been built or are under construction.

turn up excellent fossil specimens.

In the eastern part of the Emirate, near the Oman border, lies

Al Ain is also the home of the UAE’s national zoo, housed in a large

Al Ain offering a vision of cool tranquillity in the hostile desert, while

park. Not only a tourist attraction, the zoo is also the centre for important

the gentle oasis of Liwa is the last outpost of habitation before the

breeding projects aimed at conservation of endangered species.

great western desert called, for good reason, the Empty Quarter.

Abu Dhabi’s commercial and tourist infrastructure is among the

In the decades since the discovery of oil in Abu Dhabi, HH Sheikh

best in the Middle East. More than 46 airlines from all quarters

Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and ruler of Abu

of the globe land here en route between Europe and the Far East.

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25/6/04

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Page 022

022

ABU DHABI

A MODERN GARDEN CITY

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Abu Dhabi has become as much a sunny playground for holidaymakers, as a centre for business and investment. Luxury hotels vie with one another to provide the most lavish facilities and absorbing entertainment. Good roads and air-conditioned cars and buses make travelling inside the Emirate easy and comfortable. That is just as well, because there is much to see, and even more to do in this fascinating country. â–

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between flights. We believe that Al

guest will be escorted directly from

Diyafa is the natural progression of

the aircraft to the Al Diyafa terminal

these services. While Golden Class

in a limousine without going through

has established itself as a unique

the main passenger terminal,

service for travellers, removing

023

International Airport, where the

Once the guest is seated in the

thereby offering a completely

many of the ‘hassles’ of

AT ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL

lounge, the highly trained Al Diyafa

private and individual service.

international travel, the Al Diyafa

AIRPORT

staff will handle check-in and

H.E. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak

service goes a few steps further in

H.E. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak

immigration formalities, while the

Al Nahyan, Chairman of the

offering an elite service that will

Al Nahyan, Chairman of the

guests relax with complimentary

Department of Civil Aviation, says

particularly appeal to VIPs,

Department of Civil Aviation, has

refreshments. The Al Diyafa staff

“we expect that the Al Diyafa

diplomats and to certain sectors of

announced the launch of a new

will take care of every necessity,

service will be used primarily by

the expatriate population. We

luxury travel service at Abu Dhabi

including duty free purchases,

individuals, families, businessmen

believe that Al Diyafa adds to the

International Airport – Al Diyafa.

refreshments and any service

and VIPs who would prefer to travel

bouquet of services and facilities

The new Al Diyafa service – which

required by the customer.

in privacy and who are accustomed

offered at Abu Dhabi International

means hospitality in Arabic – will

Once the aircraft is ready for

to a certain style of living. We are

Airport that have made it a world

offer a complete and unrivalled

boarding, the guest will be

pleased to offer this tailor-made

leader in terms of customer

door-to-door service for passengers

escorted a few steps from the

service for those customers who

service,” he continued.

who wish to travel in complete

lounge to a waiting limousine that

enjoy travelling in ultimate luxury.”

comfort. Passengers arriving at the

will escort them directly to the

“Abu Dhabi International Airport is

The Al Diyafa service can be

Abu Dhabi International Airport will

steps of the aircraft.

renowned internationally for its

contacted by calling

enter directly into the Al Diyafa

The Al Diyafa service is also

high standards of comfort and

971 2 575 8301 or faxing on

terminal and go straight into the Al

available on arrival at Abu Dhabi

luxury in travel, particularly through

971 2 575 8302 or by email at

its various services for travellers,

diyafaad@emirates.net.ae.

such as the Golden Class meet-

For bookings and information on

and-assist service, City Terminal

price structure, please call the

downtown check-in facility and Al

Al Diyafa service directly.

DIYAFA tel: (971 2) 575 8301 fax: (971 2) 575 8302 email: diyafaad@emirates.net.ae

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AL DIYAFA SERVICE LAUNCHED

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AIRLINES

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FAST FACTS ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR INTERNATIONAL

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

TRAVELLERS, INCLUDING:

No health certificates are currently required for entry to Abu Dhabi except for visitors who have been in a cholera or yellow fever

■ Climate

infected area during the 14 days prior to arrival.

■ Language, culture and communications

Health requirements can change suddenly so it is always wise to

■ Currency information

check the situation with your travel agent prior to departure.

■ Tax information Abu Dhabi is rich in subject matter, but Muslim women and military

Most diplomatic missions to the UAE are located in the capital, Abu

and other government installations must not be photographed. It is

Dhabi. In addition to 17 Arab embassies, some 37 foreign countries

courteous to ask permission before photographing any nationals.

are represented through embassies or consulates.

Take particular care to protect your photographic equipment from sand and heat.

024

ABU DHABI

FA S T FAC T S

PHOTOGRAPHY EMBASSIES

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ELECTRICITY The electricity supply is 220/240 volts AC at 50 cycles. The socket type is identical to the three-point British system. NEWSPAPERS The English-language newspapers Gulf News and Khaleej Times are published daily, as are three Arabic newspapers. Foreign newspapers (a day or two late) and magazines, are also available in bookshops and supermarkets along with many specialist Arabic magazines. MEDICAL CARE Medical attention is available around the clock. There are many modern, well-equipped hospitals in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain including several private hospitals. Most hotels have their own doctor on 24-

ABU DHABI

products. Health care is free to all nationals and residents with a health

026

FA S T FAC T S

hour call, and pharmacies carry common medicines and health

PLANE HIRE

card. Others may choose between inexpensive care in government health facilities or higher priced private treatment.

The Abu Dhabi Aviation Company has a fleet of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft for hire with a capacity of up to 50 passengers. You need a licence from authorities to access the airport, and you must specify your route and destination. Rental rates are from around $US1200 to $US6000 per hour. LANGUAGE The official language is Arabic, but English is widely understood in the hotels and shops, and used as a second language in commerce. AIRPORT The expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport has enhanced the fast growing tourism industry. The new terminal and satellite emphasise continuity with the architecture of the existing airport while at the same time, incorporating the latest technology to achieve a high level of service for passengers and efficiency in operation. State-of-the-art facilities, international boutiques and the unique 18 hole sand golf course constructed on the airport grounds are available for use by transit passengers and local golf enthusiasts. ALCOHOL Alcoholic drinks are served in the major hotels and licensed restaurants. Non-Muslim residents can buy supplies of liquor for home consumption by obtaining a permit. Public drunkenness or

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driving under the influence of alcohol are serious breaches of the law, as is serving, selling, or giving liquor to Muslims. BARGAINING Bargaining is part of the fun of shopping in Abu Dhabi, although it is more a matter of negotiation than haggling. Persistent bargaining will usually reduce the list price substantially, especially for cash sales. In the souks, the rule of thumb is to offer half the listed or quoted price and work upwards from there. BUSINESS HOURS The Islamic weekend generally starts from noon on Thursday. Friday is the holy day when businesses, other than shops, close down completely. During the working week, Saturday to Wednesday, government offices are usually open between 7.30 am and 2 pm. CAR HIRE There are plenty of car rental offices in Abu Dhabi with all sizes and makes of car available for hire, with or without a driver. Rates are around Dh120 a day ($US33.50) for small cars to Dh1000 ($US272) for limousines. Roads are excellent and traffic jams are virtually non-existent. CLIMATE the coast hover around 24C, and are even warmer inland. Nights are cool, sometimes even chilly, but rain is so infrequent it poses no threat to outdoor activities. From May until October, it is extremely hot and humid on the coast and although humidity drops significantly inland, temperatures soar over 40C during the day and only drop about 10C

ABU DHABI

FA S T FAC T S

The climate is best between October and April, when temperatures on

at night. Even the cooling Gulf breezes which spring up during the summer are sometimes laden with dust and sand. However, thanks to air conditioning, swimming pools, and the greening of the cities,

028

summers in the Gulf are no longer unbearable. CLOTHING Lightweight summer clothing is suitable all year round, with the addition of a warmer jacket for cool winter nights, and for air-conditioned hotels and restaurants which can be quite cold. During the summer months, it is advisable to wear loose, comfortable clothes in fabrics suitable for hot conditions. Except on beaches and around swimming pools where modern swimwear can be worn without contravening local dress codes, visitors are expected to dress conservatively in public. It is advisable to cover up under the strong Middle Eastern sun with sleeved clothing, hats and sunglasses. Hotel restaurants do not insist that male guests wear ties, but most men, if not wearing a lightweight suit and tie, will at least be in smart casual attire. CREDIT CARDS Most credit cards such as Diners, American Express, Access/Mastercard and Visa, are accepted at the major hotels and some of the larger shops, but better bargains can usually be obtained with cash. CURRENCY Dirhams and fils are the units of currency with 100 fils to the Dirham (Dh). The Dirham is tied to the US Dollar at a steady exchange rate of $US1 = Dh3.65. Banks usually give the best rates on foreign currency exchange but hotels and airports are often quicker and are open outside banking hours.

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ABU DHABI

Money changers tend to have a wider range of currencies but their rates

030

FA S T FAC T S

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Driving licences can be obtained if your job classification allows it

Shopping malls in Abu Dhabi are open on Thursday from noon until

and you can produce the relevant documentation. Check with the

midnight, on Friday from 3 pm until 2 am, and during the week from

Road Traffic Department for more information.

Saturday until Wednesday, from 10 am until 10 pm.

and National Day 2-3 December. Christmas is sometimes observed

may be higher. Exchange rates are published daily, in newspapers.

by Western companies, and some embassies may observe Easter.

DRIVING LICENCES

SHOPPING HOURS

A national licence from any of the following countries is acceptable in place of an international licence:

RAMADAN

Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, West Germany, Greece,

This is the month of fasting during which no food or water may be

Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,

consumed, nor cigarettes smoked in public during daylight hours.

Turkey, UK and USA.

Non-Muslims should also observe these religious customs.

DUTY FREE ALLOWANCE

hours reduced. Business is sometimes conducted after dark.The

2 litres of spirits and 2 litres of wine (for non-Muslim adults only),

end of Ramadan is marked by joyous feasting and dancing over the

2000 cigarettes or 400 cigars or 2 kg of tobacco and a reasonable

three-day Eid Al-Fitr holiday.

Licensed premises are closed during Ramadan and working

amount of perfume. There are no restrictions on the amount of currency you may bring

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

to Abu Dhabi, and no customs duty on personal effects accompanied

A modern bus system operates almost 24 hours a day. The major

or unaccompanied.

coach station is on the Hazza Bin Zayed road where buses arrive

There is a Duty Free store at the airport which stocks an extensive

and depart for destinations throughout Abu Dhabi and beyond.

range of merchandise.

Some are air conditioned, some not. Fares are inexpensive.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

RADIO

As the dates of Islamic holidays are not fixed, it’s best to ask a

Both Arabic and English commercial radio stations broadcast in Abu

local or consult the daily newspapers for information. Holidays are

Dhabi. Radio broadcasts in Arabic on three medium wave and

frequently confirmed less than twenty-four hours in advance.

alternating short wave frequencies from 6.15 am until 2 am.

There are some fixed non-Muslim holidays like New Year on January 1, the holiday to mark the Accession of HH Sheikh Zayed on August 6

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RELIGION

Dubai, Sharjah and countries outside the UAE. Abu Dhabi also

Islam is the official religion but other creeds are respected. There are

receives satellite television from around the world, including CNN,

three Christian churches: St Joseph Roman Catholic Church, St

BBC and STAR TV.

George Orthodox Church and St Andrews Protestant Church. Every Muslim has a duty to pray five times a day; the precise times

031

TIME

are published daily.

UAE time is four hours ahead of GMT.

TAXIS

TIPPING

Taxis are plentiful and comparatively cheap, with fixed metre fares

Tipping is a practice which varies from country to country, depending

around the city from about Dh5 to Dh20. However, if you travel

on tradition. In Abu Dhabi, the practice is to tip according to the

outside the city by taxi, it is wise to establish the price before setting

quality of the service. Even where a service charge is applied, staff

out. Sharing is common practice for longer journeys.

expect a little extra.

TELEPHONE

airports, a tip of Dh5 or Dh10 is customary.

10% is acceptable in hotel restaurants but for luggage porters at Telecommunications throughout Abu Dhabi are modern and efficient. International Direct dialling is available to most countries.

VISAS

Local telephone calls (in and around the central city area) are free.

Most visitors are eligible to enter the UAE on either a 30-day tourist

Local and international dialling codes may be obtained by dialling the

visa or on a visit visa for up to 60 days. Visas are easy to obtain in

operator on 181. If you have difficulty with dialling, ring 151 for

advance through either your hotel or a business contact in Abu

assistance. Pay phones, located in the cities and at points along the

Dhabi. Those travelling on Israeli passports, or with Israeli visas, will

highways, can be operated by coins (Dh1 or 50 fils) or phone cards

not be allowed entry.

which may be purchased from post offices and licensed agents

Visitors leaving Abu Dhabi whose visas have expired face a fine of

throughout the city. Reduced charges apply between 9 pm and 7 am,

Dh100 per day.

all day Fridays and on public or national holidays. Major hotels have all the latest telecommunications facilities.

WATER Tap water comes from desalination plants and is safe to drink,

TELEVISION

however many people prefer bottled water which is served in most

There are about thirteen channels broadcasting in Arabic and

hotels and restaurants and may be purchased at shops throughout

English in Abu Dhabi, and it’s also possible to pick up signals from

Abu Dhabi. â–

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A WARM WELCOME PEOPLE FROM OTHER CULTURES NEVER CEASE TO BE AMAZED AND DELIGHTED AT THE WARM WELCOME THEY RECEIVE IN THE ARABIAN GULF. WHETHER IN A DESERT TENT OR A MODERN CITY VILLA, VISITORS TO ABU DHABI CAN EXPECT TO RECEIVE THE SAME SPONTANEOUS TRADITIONAL WELCOME.

A

bu Dhabi has developed a comprehensive infrastructure with world-class hotels, a state of the art airport and many fantastic attractions for visitors. Almost every attraction is

within convenient reach and even the UAE’s most out of the way destinations can be reached within a few hours. Desert excursions A WA R M WE LC O M E

can be completed in an afternoon and mountains can be reached within an hour and a half. The Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) are your hosts in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Established in 1978 as a shareholding company with three hotels purchased from the government, ADNH has now expanded into a quality, broad based hotel, tourism and catering company spanning all sectors of the hospitality industry. The

032

ABU DHABI

prestigious hotels division has witnessed phenomenal growth over

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ALMOST EVERY ATTRACTION IS WITHIN CONVENIENT REACH AND EVEN THE UAE’S MOST OUT OF THE WAY DESTINATIONS CAN BE REACHED WITHIN A FEW HOURS. DESERT EXCURSIONS CAN BE COMPLETED IN AN AFTERNOON AND MOUNTAINS CAN BE REACHED

ABU DHABI

A WA R M WE LC O M E

WITHIN AN HOUR AND A HALF.

the years and is now the leading player within the hospitality industry in Abu Dhabi. The company owns 5-star hotels in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain including Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, Hilton International

033

Abu Dhabi and Hilton International Al Ain, along with seven midrange hotels and resorts under the Al Diar umbrella. ADNH also operates a full service catering division in partnership with Compass – the largest contract catering company in the world. ADNH Compass has grown substantially in both size and diversity. ADNH’s tourism company Sunshine Tours, is fully equipped with the latest in communication and transportation facilities to ensure the highest standards of ground operating tourism services in the UAE. ADNH also operates a taxi and chauffeur-driven service for the expanding business and tourism industry. Al Ghazal Transport has grown to become a fundamental part of the travel infrastructure within Abu Dhabi and the surrounding Emirates. Attractions in Abu Dhabi include mountains, sandy beaches and clean blue seas teeming with marine life. Complemented by the city’s excellent shopping and vibrant nightlife, Abu Dhabi has so much to offer. Minutes away from the hotel of your choice, delegates and

For further information on tourism in Abu Dhabi – UAE, please

participants can be splashing in the sea, teeing off on a world-class

contact: Sunshine Tours

golf course, shopping or dining in a local restaurant offering every

Abu Dhabi National Hotels

conceivable cuisine.

PO Box 8200, Abu Dhabi, UAE tel: (971 2) 444 9914

Moreover, Abu Dhabi has hosted many international and regional

fax: (971 2) 444 6856

industry related conferences, making it an ideal destination for the quality conscious businessman. Whether your event planning criteria is based on relaxing and refreshing breaks, conference or meeting agenda, Abu Dhabi should make your shortlist. ■

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034

ABU DHABI

M A P O F T H E UA E

MAP OF THE UAE

UAE WEATHER CHART Temperature Centigrade Max

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Sunshine Daily

Average Rainfall

Min

Hours

(cm’s)

January

24.2

12.5

9.3

1.44

February

24.8

15.5

8.8

2.41

March

27.5

16.9

9.0

1.75

April

32.7

21.2

9.3

0.85

May

39.9

25.4

11.8

0.07

June

38.7

27.1

11.6

0

July

41.8

29.2

10.2

0.001 0.001

August

39.3

29.7

10.9

September

39.3

25.6

10.3

0

October

35.6

23.9

10.1

0.002

November

31.2

19.5

9.6

0.13

December

24.1

15.0

8.2

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ABU DHABI

AIRLINES

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ETIHAD AIRWAYS: THE WORLD HAS A NEW AIRLINE

Etihad Airways, the new national airline of the United Arab Emirates,

035

is rapidly making its presence known at Abu Dhabi International Airport, as well as throughout the Middle East and beyond. The fullservice airline made its first commercial flight to Beirut in November 2003. Since that time, the airline’s wide body aircraft with its distinctive UAE crest have quickly become a familiar sight at the terminal.

commitment to a superior product

Amman, Bangkok, Beirut,

reservations, please contact your

Bringing comfort and value-added

and service at a price that

Colombo, Damascus, London

travel agent or Etihad Airways at

service to the commercial air travel

represents value for its guests. The

Heathrow, Munich and Geneva.

toll free 800 2277.

experience is the focus of the

airline is being positioned as the

The carrier plans on providing

airline, which is wholly owned by

airline of the 21st century and

service to a total of up to 16

the Abu Dhabi Government. The

promises to make flying a

destinations by the end of this year

key to Etihad’s growth has

comfortable and pleasant

and hopes to fly to at least one

unquestionably been its

experience that meets or exceeds

destination in North America in the

customer expectations.

near future. By 2010, Etihad aims

Etihad Airways now offers flights to

to be flying 50 aircraft worldwide.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS tel: 800 2277

16318_4

For flight information and


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important Bedouin tribes in the region to create a stable Emirate, have

A LESSON FROM HISTORY

ruled Abu Dhabi ever since. The modern city of Abu Dhabi was built over the past thirty years on this island. Skyscrapers now reflect in the Gulf waters, contrasting with the endless line of Corniche and white sand beaches. AN EXCEPTIONAL LEADER In Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi has been blessed with a Ruler who has a genuine desire to advance the well-being of

FROM A MODEST VILLAGE TO A MODERN CITY, THE HISTORY OF ABU DHABI IS A STORY OF VISION, LEADERSHIP AND GOOD FORTUNE.

his people. Oil income has been wisely and prudently used to transform an undeveloped country into one with a living standard among the highest in the world. Sheikh Zayed, President of the United Arab Emirates, was born in 1918. There were few opportunities for formal education in Abu Dhabi during the 1920s and 1930s. Sheikh Zayed grew up in the desert, observing the ways of the Bedouin tribes who lived in and around the region.

from a modest village of a few hundred palm frond huts

They taught him the rudiments of negotiation and co-operation which

(barasti) interspersed with buildings of coral, clustered

prepared him for the major role he was to play in his country’s affairs.

around a large white fort in which the Ruler resided. Life in the

Sheikh Zayed’s exceptional leadership qualities were revealed early,

village, before the oil boom, had changed little since the island was

when as Governor of Al Ain he transformed a desert village into a green

settled in the middle of the 18th century.

paradise, despite the shortage of available funds for public works at the

Recently restored, the fort, or Al Hisn Palace, is practically all that

time. He upgraded the irrigation system opening a large new area to

remains of the original township. It marks the spot where a hunting party

agriculture. The economy of the region has not looked back.

of Bani Yas Bedouin saw a gazelle drinking at a spring on the island two

By the time he followed his two brothers to the Ruler’s palace in

centuries ago.

Abu Dhabi city in 1966, Sheikh Zayed had formulated an ambitious

The discovery gave rise to the name Abu Dhabi - ‘homeland of the

plan to bring Abu Dhabi into the modern era, funded by revenues

gazelle’. As the island offered security, fresh water, grazing and fishing,

which had begun to flow from petroleum exports.

the Bani Yas leader moved his people there from Liwa in 1761.

The country began its frenetic transformation as Sheikh Zayed set

Descendants of that leader, who formed an alliance with the other

about building roads, housing, hospitals, an international airport and

036

ABU DHABI

A LESSON IN HISTORY

L

ess than fifty years ago, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi was ruled

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the east and west wings. The hotel comprises 390 luxury rooms and suites, while a variety of fine dining options will be provided in 16 food and beverage outlets. Emirates Palace, a landmark hotel WELCOME TO THE EMIRATES

Built in the style of a majestic

and including a state-of-the-art

in the Middle East and the world,

PALACE

Oriental palace, its colours

auditorium for 1300 persons, the

will be completed in late 2004 and

Emirates Palace, the most

represent the different sand

country’s largest ballroom, a high-

managed by Kempinski Hotels &

impressive hotel and conference

nuances found in the Arabian

tech Media Centre and 30

Resorts as part of their prestigious

venue ever to be built in the United

desert. The Conference Centre will

additional meeting rooms.

portfolio, which comprises

Arab Emirates, showcases the

house the largest, most luxurious

Located on a 1.3-kilometre stretch

exclusive properties in Europe,

beauty of Arabian culture, adhering

and technologically advanced

of Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful

Africa, the Middle East, South

to traditional themes and providing

meeting facilities, with the total

sandy beach, Emirates Palace will

America and Asia.

an affinity with the country’s

meeting and conference space

also offer leisure facilities with two

national identity.

exceeding 7000 square metres

stunning pool landscapes and two

EMIRATES PALACE

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16409_1

Pre-Opening Office Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi Operated by Kempinski Hotels & Resorts Abu Dhabi Corniche P.O.Box 890, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates tel: (971 2) 681 1140 fax: (971 2) 681 5994 email: info.emiratespalace@kempinski.com

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luxurious spas at the end of each of

ABU DHABI

HOTELS

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038

ABU DHABI

A LESSON IN HISTORY

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THE DISCOVERY GAVE RISE TO THE NAME ABU DHABI ‘HOMELAND OF THE GAZELLE’. AS THE ISLAND OFFERED SECURITY, FRESH WATER, GRAZING AND FISHING, THE BANI YAS LEADER MOVED HIS PEOPLE THERE FROM LIWA IN 1761. DESCENDANTS OF THAT LEADER, WHO FORMED AN ALLIANCE WITH THE OTHER IMPORTANT BEDOUIN TRIBES IN THE REGION TO CREATE A STABLE EMIRATE, HAVE RULED ABU DHABI EVER SINCE.

seaport, schools and a university, a water supply, and other elements of infrastructure to support a nation on the move. His vision was broad. He encouraged diversification of industry, development of leisure activities, preservation of historical cultures and traditions, and adherence to the values and beliefs of Islam. He also demonstrated a keen grasp of the complexities of external policy and has played a valuable role in Middle Eastern politics. UAE-AN EXAMPLE IN CO-OPERATION After Britain’s withdrawal from the Gulf in 1971, the Sheikhs of Abu Dhabi and Dubai decided federation would give them greater security, stability and a stronger voice in the affairs of the region. They were joined by Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, forming a new country known as United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sheikh Zayed became President of the new state.

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Such was his standing in the Arab community that the UAE was immediately recognised by other members of the Arab League and admitted to the United Nations. Ten years later, Sheikh Zayed’s contribution towards forging stronger links between Arab states in the region bore fruit with the formation of the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC). The UAE has a population estimated at 2.5 million. It is the third largest country in the GCC after Saudi Arabia and Oman with its seat of Government in the capital of Abu Dhabi. The spirit of co-operation between the states of the UAE has set an example in the Arab world. As the wealthiest state, Abu Dhabi has poured funds into the development of the smaller, oil-less states, sharing its prosperity with all peoples of the UAE. There is ongoing and good-natured rivalry between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. While Abu Dhabi’s oil wealth has made it the most influential of the emirates, Dubai, the second largest emirate, is its commercial centre. ANCIENT RELICS A passion for the past has attracted teams of eager archeologists to remarkable discoveries, to trace the course of human settlement in this ancient corner of the world. Flint implements have been found in the desert which are believed to be tens of thousands of years old. The permanent settlement discovered in Umm Al Nar, an island near Abu Dhabi, and at Jebel Hafit near Al Ain, dating back 4,000 or 5,000 years, seems recent in comparison! New finds are made almost daily, so for history buffs, this is the place

039

ABU DHABI

to be. Head first for Al Ain’s fascinating museum and nearby digs. ■

A LESSON IN HISTORY

Abu Dhabi during the last half century. They have begun, through some

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040

ABU DHABI

D I S C O V E R I N G A R A B C U LT U R E

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DISCOVERING ARAB CULTURE

RELIGION AS A WAY OF LIFE The people of Abu Dhabi and throughout the UAE, led by their President Sheikh Zayed, are deeply committed to Islam. It establishes the principles and values by which they live day-to-day, such as preserving family life, sharing and showing equal respect for one another. Abu Dhabi is a city of mosques, with well over 400 and

ARAB FRIENDSHIP AND HOSPITALITY IS LEGENDARY. THE BEDOUIN CUSTOM OF OFFERING FOOD AND SHELTER TO STRANGERS IN THE DESERT IS PRESERVED BY TODAY’S URBAN ARABS. THE BEST WAY TO REALLY DISCOVER DUBAI IS TO GO OUT AND MIX WITH ITS WELCOMING AND HONOURABLE PEOPLE.

F

rom souks to corporate boardrooms, business starts with a tiny cup of cardamon flavoured coffee poured from the traditional metal pot or dallah. To stem the flow, guests must

wiggle the cup from side to side which indicates they have had enough. Coffee is just a part of the traditional expression of Arabic hospitality in which food, coffee, perfumes and incense are offered in a certain order and ritual which is still practised when local Arabs entertain guests in Abu Dhabi. Its most visible form is the coffee ceremony. Greetings are often protracted affairs as an Arab may enquire after your health, your families health, your news. The polite reply is that all is well, thanks be to God. Having shown respect by not upsetting the inquirer, it is then permissible to reveal any actual problems. The verbal exchange may also be accompanied by a kiss on the cheek, or in the case of elderly men and sheikhs, a kiss on the nose. Hands are also shaken.

more being built each year. They range from elaborate architectural masterpieces serving thousands of worshippers to small, modest rooms conveniently located. The Muezzin’s call to prayer forms a rhythmic pattern to life in the city. Muslims have a duty to pray five times a day, not necessarily in a mosque, but facing towards Mecca and reciting the prescribed prayers. The most important prayer is said in the mosque on the holy day, Friday.


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DRESSED BY TRADITION Arab nationals usually wear their traditional dress. For men, that’s a white robe or dishdasha, with a white or red checked headcloth or gutra tied in place by a twisted black agal. The woman’s abba or abbaya is normally black and covers her from head to foot, however underneath, her garments are often prettily embroidered. They consist of a half cloak, layered voluminous dress and a baggy trouser narrowed from knee to ankle. Many women also wear a canvas mask called a burqa which leaves only the eyes uncovered. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY It surprises some visitors to Abu Dhabi to find the constitution of the UAE provides equality for women in both opportunity and social justice. Women can be seen in the streets wearing either traditional or contemporary clothing. The younger generation is grasping the opportunity for education. Nowadays at least as many young women outside the home. Women work in many fields such as administration, commerce, medicine and teaching. MUSIC AND DANCE Traditional dances and folk songs are a part of most festivities, particularly weddings. The Ayyalah, performed by up to 50 men, which has its origins in a tribal war chant and victory dance, is usually part of the extended dancing and singing which may begin a week or more in advance of an Arab wedding celebration. During Eids (the end of Ramadan) and other national festivals where feasting and dancing take place, young girls may perform the ‘hair dance’,

041

ABU DHABI

swaying and tossing their long hair to the rhythm of the music.

D I S C O V E R I N G A R A B C U LT U R E

attend university as young men, and they go on to take paid positions

IT SURPRISES SOME VISITORS TO ABU DHABI TO FIND

Another interesting part of the wedding ritual is the practice of

THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UAE PROVIDES EQUALITY FOR

decorating the bride’s hands and feet with henna on the eve of the

WOMEN IN BOTH OPPORTUNITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE.

marriage ceremony.

WOMEN CAN BE SEEN IN THE STREETS WEARING EITHER TRADITIONAL OR CONTEMPORARY CLOTHING. THE

TIME-HONOURED CRAFTS

YOUNGER GENERATION IS GRASPING THE OPPORTUNITY

Bedouin women were traditionally expert weavers. Floor mats, food

FOR EDUCATION.

mats and bowls were woven from date palm fibres. Examples can still be found in Abu Dhabi’s souks. They also wove cotton and silver threads into trimmings for their garments, and fashioned coloured yarns into camel blankets. Arab-crafted metal objects such as the handsome patterned coffee pots, daggers and swords, are being reproduced for the souvenir trade. Bedouin jewellry, not often made by the Bedouins themselves but by travelling tinkers and craftsmen, would be given to the bride as a wedding gift. It too, is now widely available in the markets of Abu Dhabi and elsewhere. ■

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L

ike finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, discovering vast quantities of oil both under the sea and in the desert has brought immense wealth to Abu Dhabi and changed forever

the lifestyle of its people. The first commercial quantities of oil were found in 1958. Exports began four years later. Ongoing exploration both on and off shore has so far identified one tenth of the world’s crude reserves, enough, even at the present rate of production of over two million barrels a day, to last another one hundred and fifty years at least. Finding oil was the first step. Before it could reach the tanker ships there had to be massive construction of rigs, pipes, tanks and terminals which brought a surge of industry and investment to Abu Dhabi. Resisting the temptation to rest on its crude oil exports, Abu Dhabi has begun downstream processing of both oil and gas. In the early days, gas associated with the oilfields was burnt off and wasted, but now it is harnessed for liquefaction and local consumption. Natural gas fields have also been discovered. In 1971, the government of Abu Dhabi, in common with other major oil producers in the Middle East, negotiated new concessions with its foreign partners securing the controlling interest in its precious oil

LAST CENTURY, PEARLING GAVE ABU DHABI A WEALTH AND REGIONAL CLOUT WHICH LASTED UNTIL THE JAPANESE KILLED OFF THE NATURAL PEARL INDUSTRY IN THE 1930s BY MARKETING A CHEAPER CULTURED PEARL. ABU DHABI FELL ON HARD TIMES, BUT NOT FOR LONG.

resources. Gas reserves however, belong wholly to the government. The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) was established to administer the industry. The actual well sites are off limits to unauthorised personnel however, there is a Petroleum Exhibition on the Corniche which documents the industry’s interesting history.

042

ABU DHABI

THE QUEST FOR OIL

THE QUEST FOR OIL

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THE NON-OIL SECTOR IS ALSO FLOURISHING THANKS TO THE GOVERNMENT’S HUGE INVESTMENT IN INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUBSIDIES TO STIMULATE INDUSTRIAL DIVERSIFICATION AND LESSEN THE COUNTRY’S

ABU DHABI

THE QUEST FOR OIL

DEPENDENCE ON OIL.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ADNOC is usually the first port of call for those wanting to do business in Abu Dhabi. Current expansion and development of the oil and gas industry, translates into projects, mostly for heavy

043

industry, worth many millions of dollars. The non-oil sector is also flourishing thanks to the Government’s huge investment in infrastructure and subsidies to stimulate industrial diversification and lessen the country’s dependence on oil. Agriculture, tourism, fishing, water and electricity supply, transport, building construction, warehousing, retailing and communications have all been growing at a bristling pace. The major centre for light industry is at Mussafah about 22 kilometres from the capital. Agriculture is a surprising success story for one of the most arid countries in the world. Although farming has been carried out in Al Ain for around 5000 years, it is only recently that the area has produced enough vegetables and fruit to export to other Middle Eastern markets. A cannery has been built to process surplus production. The government succeeded in arresting the decline of the fishing industry by providing fishermen with new motor driven boats and updating equipment and marketing methods. The catch has increased substantially. Private investment in agriculture and other industries is encouraged and foreign participation, up to 49 percent in joint ventures, is a common practice in the Emirate. The General Industries Corporation which oversees both government owned and private industrial development and the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which represents the private sector, are useful sources of general information concerning business opportunities in the Emirate. ■

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THE GREENING OF ABU DHABI TAKES IN OTHER TOWNS THROUGHOUT THE EMIRATE. SO KEEN ARE THE AUTHORITIES TO ENCOURAGE PRIVATE PARTICIPATION THAT THE CITIZENS ARE GIVEN

044

ABU DHABI

THE GREENING OF ABU DHABI

FREE SEEDLINGS FOR THEIR GARDENS.

THE GREENING OF ABU DHABI

The Coffee Pot Fountain on the Corniche, the Oyster Shell Fountain, the Peacock and the Swan Fountains, are among the wonderful designs. Incidentally, the greening of Abu Dhabi is not just cosmetic. Peak summer temperatures in the city have actually been lowered several degrees since the programme began. At Al Ain, greenification through irrigation and agriculture is arresting what had been a steadily encroaching desert. HERITAGE VILLAGE

ABU DHABI CITY IS A SIGHT FOR SORE EYES. IN CONTRAST WITH THE HARSH DESERT GLARE, ABU DHABI’S EXPANSES OF COOL GREEN PARKLANDS ARE BLISSFULLY RELAXING.

I

The nomadic Bedouin way of life was not the only tradition of people in Abu Dhabi - there were a diverse number of occupations involving agriculture, fishing and trading. These different lifestyles are depicted in permanent displays at Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi city.

n the 1980s, a massive construction programme razed the old town and built a new one. Suddenly, the residents of Abu Dhabi found themselves surrounded with landscaped parks, gardens,

plantations and nature strips. If they had doubted it was possible to build a garden city out of arid sands, here was the living proof. Abu Dhabi has 18 parks, some for the general public, and two - Al Mushrif and Khalidiya - for women and children with playground areas. The greening process has also occurred in other towns throughout the Emirate. So keen are the authorities to encourage private participation that citizens are given free seedlings for their gardens. If the gardens come as a surprise, the fountains are simply breathtaking. In a country where every drop of water is precious, magnificent fountains showering cascades of water grace the streetscape at every turn, thanks to desalination plants and recycled treated sewage.

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ABU DHABI

THE GREENING OF ABU DHABI

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At certain times, Heritage Village turns into a living exhibit and visitors can sample a typical Bedouin meal. There are also displays of horsemanship and camel riding. One exhibit recreates farming life in an oasis environment, and

045

another, the more worldly life of a coastal fisherman, trader or pearl diver. THE CORNICHE A graceful sweep of park-lined coastal boulevard skirts the city. This is Abu Dhabi Corniche, an impressive address which has attracted a backdrop of architecturally modern and beautiful commercial buildings which face the sparkling sea. A promenade along the Corniche through its attractive gardens, fountains and waterfalls, is a favourite activity for residents and tourists alike. Superior standards of security and cleanliness offer

unwelcome visitors away from the island, and the fine example of

relaxing surrounds in which to absorb the exotic Arabic lifestyle, and

modern bridge engineering which today welcomes all new comers.

visitors will enjoy a uniquely romantic culture. THE CULTURAL CENTRE LULU ISLAND

The cultural heart of Abu Dhabi is its Cultural Foundation which

Work began in 1988 on this man-made island resort off the

occupies a sprawling complex covering 14 hectares in the centre of

Corniche. It is designed to be a recreational paradise to rival the best

the city. It incorporates a library, theatre auditorium, lecture rooms

in the world, with hotels, restaurants, gardens, bird and animal

and an exhibition centre. Built in white concrete in a style influenced

sanctuaries and fun-parks for the children.

by

the

arching

colonnades

of

traditional

Arabian-Islamic

architecture, and surrounded by courtyards and gardens, it is truly a MAQTAA BRIDGE FORT

magnificent asset for the city. The original Al Hisn Palace which

Bedouin Forts are some of the oldest landmarks in the Emirate,

houses the Centre for Documentation and Research, is also on this

and none are more spectacular than the remains of the Maqtaa

site and affiliated with the Foundation. â–

Bridge Fort which rises out of the water near the new Maqtaa Bridge. They make a stark contrast - the 200 year-old fort built to keep

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046

ABU DHABI

A D ES E RT OA S I S

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A DESERT OASIS

received a further boost with the completion of the spectacular new airport. The University opened in 1977, has seven faculties and a capacity for 10,000 students. National students and Arab non-nationals study at Al Ain University without paying fees and receive a monthly living allowance. Female students, at times outnumbering males,

LIFE IS MORE LEISURELY IN AL AIN, THE SECOND CITY OF ABU DHABI ABOUT 140 KILOMETRES TO THE EAST OF THE CAPITAL.

study the same curriculum, but in separate schools. As part of their courses, students take general instruction in basic English, Arabic, Islamic thought and Arab sociology and statistics. Most graduates are absorbed into the UAE’s civil service. HISTORICAL AL AIN What attracts many visitors to Al Ain are the archeological sites at nearby Hili Garden where an oasis culture has been identified as

A

l Ain is a culturally important centre, rich in ancient history,

flourishing from 3000 to 2000 BC. The Hili Dig is open to the public

and home to the only university in the UAE. It is also a

during the day.

favourite destination for tourists. With the beautiful Omani

Nearby is Fossil Valley. Once covered by the sea, it rewards the

mountains as a backdrop, and the nearby Jebel Hafit peak adding

keen searcher with many excellent fossil specimens. Finds from Hili

character to the landscape, Al Ain has its own special charm.

and more recent artifacts are preserved in the old fort in the centre

Clean and quiet, with wide avenues and many trees and gardens,

of Al Ain. The Al Ain museum shows the social life of the people of

the city has grown rapidly but gracefully during the last twenty years.

Abu Dhabi over the centuries from ancient to modern times.

Al Ain owes its reputation as a rich agricultural centre to a vast

Particularly interesting are the primitive agricultural tools and

subterranean water supply which has provided simple irrigation for

Bedouin artifacts among the displays.

thousands of years. One of Sheikh Zayed’s masterstrokes as governor of the western

RECREATIONAL AL AIN

region in the 1960s, was to update the irrigation system thus

Al Ain, a welcoming getaway in the desert, is the famous birthplace

extending the area which could be cultivated.

of ruler His Highness Sheikh Zayed. Situated inland, this tranquil

Al Ain is now a vital source of fresh produce for the rest of Abu

retreat is surrounded by beautiful palm groves. The city is literally

Dhabi. Tourism however, is its fastest growing industry which has

built around an oasis, and old falaja irrigation systems are still found

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nearby. Al Ain is not only famous for its camel races but also its camel market, the last in the UAE. Held on Fridays, the market attracts buyers and sellers from all over the region. Many recent attractions have been built in and around Al Ain to entertain and amuse its many visitors. Hili Fun City, nine kilometres from town, is an 85-hectare amusement park devoted to games and sports for children and the young at heart. Some of the attractions include a 3.5 kilometre electric train ride, a heart-stopping roller-coaster, dodgem cars and games involving spaceships and helicopters. Sheikh Zayed’s passion for enriching the life of the people in Abu Dhabi knows no bounds. Even a zoo was built on his instructions, which opened at Al Ain in 1969. It now houses an enormous collection of wildlife including many rare desert animals, and has embarked upon an important breeding programme for endangered species. The Zoo, spread out over 400 hectares, shelters large herds of antelope and deer in tree-studded fields, including the Arabian gazelle, or Dhabian after which Abu Dhabi was named. A particularly fascinating resident of the Zoo is the Arabian oryx - a desert animal with large straight horns and striking black and white facial and leg markings. The Zoo has a large cathouse and aviary, and many species of is here too, with sea lions, penguins and over 50 species of fish. Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium is open to visitors every day. LIWA An exciting adventure to the Liwa oases southwest of Abu Dhabi city takes the traveller through the largest sand dunes in the world during a drive of about six hours. An occasional Bedouin village

A D ES E RT OA S I S

monkeys and reptiles. The only desert-based aquarium in the world

Quarter’. These are small villages, linked by road, where access to underground water supports increasing areas of agriculture. However, it is the desert, its eerie silence, its mountainous red dunes and starry night skies which make Liwa the perfect weekend escape. ■

AL AIN IS NOT ONLY FAMOUS FOR ITS CAMEL RACES BUT ALSO ITS CAMEL MARKET, THE LAST IN THE UAE. HELD ON FRIDAYS, THE MARKET ATTRACTS BUYERS AND SELLERS FROM ALL OVER THE REGION. MANY RECENT ATTRACTIONS HAVE BEEN BUILT IN AND AROUND AL AIN TO ENTERTAIN AND AMUSE ITS MANY VISITORS.

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047

The Liwa area takes in a group of oases, scattered in an arc formation at the edge of a vast desert known as ‘The Empty

ABU DHABI

nestled among the sand hills is the only sign of habitation.


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PLAYGROUND OF THE GULF

ABU DHABI

FROM EXOTIC MARINE LIFE, TO THE THRILLS OF THE DESERT, ABU DHABI HAS A UNIQUE ARRAY OF LEISURE ACTIVITIES TO PURSUE.

RACING THE CAMELS

equipped with luxurious leisure facilities including swimming pools

There is a wildly eccentric flavour to a desert camel race which

and private beaches. Some even cater for sailing and deep-sea

makes it a particularly entertaining sport to watch. Camel races are

fishing. A typical holiday programme might be crammed with

not staged for tourists; they are both a passion and a serious

energetic

048

P L AY G R O U N D O F T H E G U L F

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business in Abu Dhabi and throughout the UAE, conducted nearly

windsurfing, or passed enjoying passive pleasures like lazing on the

every weekend in the cooler winter months. Better known tracks are

beach with a good book, stirring only to lunch in one of the delightful

at Al Wathba near Mafraq and at Al Ain.

beach-front restaurants.

pursuits

such

as

scuba-diving,

water-skiing

and

There are few more memorable sights than a dozen camels lurching crazily at high speed across the sands toward the finishing

FROM WADI-BASHING TO DESERT SAFARIS

line, their small, youthful jockeys clinging on for dear life.

For a real adventure, consider the thrill of dune-driving or wadi

Sometimes, a pack of enthusiastic followers in trucks and four-

bashing. Driving on sand is not as easy at it looks, and expert

wheel drives may join in, stirring up clouds of dust and adding to the

instruction is essential before the novice sets out in a hired

general noise and confusion.

four-wheel drive. Listen to advice and learn the very real risk of

A highlight of the racing season in Abu Dhabi is a two-day event

becoming marooned or lost in the desert. Wadi-Bashing is the

in April to which owners and enthusiasts flock from all over the

ultimate ‘get away from it all’ experience, heading off the beaten

Arabian peninsula.

track along dry creek beds (wadis) or any uncharted terrain in an

The camel has always been indispensable to the Bedouin, a lifeline

off-road vehicle. The going is rough, and the motion bone-shaking,

in a harsh and hostile environment providing transport, milk, meat

but the rewards are unforgettable. Meeting a family of Bedouin,

and hair. The Bedouin no longer leads the traditional nomadic life,

discovering a mountain pool or waterfall, sighting a gazelle - these

but camels are often still their livelihood, and a potentially lucrative

are the definitive experiences of the intrepid traveller in the

one through breeding for camel racing. This ancient sport has

Middle East.

become a major industry employing thousands of people.

Organised desert safaris are a risk-free alternative and come with expert guides to point out features of interest. Tours which include an

LEISURE AND PLEASURE

evening barbecue and camping out under the clear desert sky will

Visitors seeking sun, sea and sandy beaches make a bee-line for

remain in your memory long after leaving Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi in the ‘winter’ season from September to May, when the weather is anything but wintery.

POWER BOAT RACING

The attraction is miles of clean, empty beaches and shimmering

Abu Dhabi has entered the international sporting arena by staging

blue seas; deserted offshore islands; hotels within minutes of the city

the UIM Formula One Power Boat Race, the first such event in the


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ORGANISED DESERT SAFARIS ARE A RISK-FREE ALTERNATIVE AND COME WITH EXPERT GUIDES TO POINT OUT FEATURES OF INTEREST. TOURS WHICH INCLUDE AN EVENING BARBECUE AND CAMPING OUT UNDER THE CLEAR DESERT SKY WILL REMAIN IN YOUR MEMORY LONG

ABU DHABI

P L AY G R O U N D O F T H E G U L F

AFTER LEAVING ABU DHABI.

Middle East. Competitors come from near and far for this race, held during May in a festival atmosphere complete with top line international entertainment and a magnificent fireworks display.

049

HORSE RACING The sport of kings is also the sport of sheikhs and horse racing has become popular in both Abu Dhabi and Umm Al Quwain. This is the home of the Arab horse, bred for its stamina and power by the Bedouin tribes. Nowadays, both the Arab and its speedier descendant, the thoroughbred, are bred and raced in winter. Betting, however, is not part of the sport in the UAE. SAND SKIING Schussing down the slopes in a burning hot desert? - anything is possible in Abu Dhabi. It was recently discovered that the towering

SCUBA DIVING & DEEP SEA FISHING

sand dunes around Liwa make excellent ski slopes - and you don’t

The clean amd calm Gulf waters are teeming with exotic marine life

need chill-proof underwear. Just a t-shirt, jeans, a standard snow

and big game fish such as sail fish and barracuda. Charter a boat and

board like a mono-ski, and away you go! It is becoming so popular

go after a big marlin, or hire some scuba gear and delight in the

that sand-skiing championships are in the offing. Local tour

underwater world which is peppered with old wrecks to add mystery

operators organise these excursions.

to the adventure. Organised fishing excursions may include a romantic evening barbecue on a deserted beach where the day’s catch is on the menu. ■

SOCIAL CLUBS Social life in Abu Dhabi revolves around the many sporting and social clubs in both the capital and Al Ain. These clubs are usually magnificently equipped. The Abu Dhabi Tourist Club is one of the main centres, with a beach for year-round swimming, a skating hall, bowling alley, tennis court, ping pong table, basket ball and volley ball courts, health centre, cafeterias, reception halls and a video room to amuse the children.

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GOLF ANYONE?

Once at the club, all equipment can be rented, making it easy for visitors to play a round (or two) between flights. The club is also open to the local community, and has a full fixture list for the season. The sand course may seem a little unusual to many visitors; instead of ‘greens’ there are ‘browns’. These are created by compacting rolled and treated sand, and - as players quickly

PLAYING EITHER ON GRASS OR SAND, YOU CAN ENJOY A RELAXING ROUND OF GOLF IN ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST EXOTIC AND SURPRISING LOCATIONS.

discover - they provide an extremely true putting surface. The front nine holes (par 35) are played on an archeological site which, thousands of years ago, was the original Abu Dhabi coastline; the back nine (par 36), have been constructed on flatter reclaimed land. In addition to the customary hazards of water and the rough, players must also contend with occasional burrows dug by desert lizards known as dhubs! For travellers interested in working on their golfing technique, the teaching academy features the most advanced and innovative golf

A

bu Dhabi now rivals neighbouring Dubai as the pre-eminent golfing city of the Gulf, with the development of a range of quality, international standard courses.

Golfing enthusiasts have several popular courses to choose from in

Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club stands on the former makeshift golf course, a legacy of early British golfing pioneers of the 1960s. Set in the heart of downtown Abu Dhabi, it offers a respite from the rush hour crowds in the city itself. Located alongside the racetrack, a scenic lake runs through the course, forming a

GOLF

formidable obstacle on this versatile par-70, 18-hole course. For something a little different, venture further afield to the Abu Dhabi Golf Club by Sheraton. Just a thirty-minute drive out of the city, this immaculately presented course tests both locals and tourists alike.

050

ABU DHABI

The National course is a visual delight, with plenty of trees, shrubs, water hazards and cleverly placed bunkers. The year it opened, the National course had the honour of hosting the PGA European Seniors Tournament. For the truly adventurous, a more unique golfing experience can be found at the Al Ghazal Golf Club and Academy, located next to Abu Dhabi International Airport. Opened in November 1997, Al Ghazal’s 18-hole, par-71 sand course, presents an exciting challenge to both the novice and the experienced golfer. On the 8th of May 2004, Al Ghazal Golf Club hosted the inaugural Abu Dhabi World Sand Championship featuring some of the world’s top golfers including Nick Faldo, Ian Woosnam and Paul McGinley. Located only 500 metres from the terminal building, it is ideal for transit passengers, for whom free transit visas and complimentary transportation to and from the club can be arranged.

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THE NATIONAL COURSE IS A VISUAL DELIGHT, WITH PLENTY OF TREES, SHRUBS, WATER HAZARDS AND CLEVERLY PLACED BUNKERS. THE YEAR IT OPENED, THE NATIONAL COURSE HAD THE HONOUR OF HOSTING THE PGA EUROPEAN SENIORS

both enjoyable and effective. The Academy has installed a Royle Golf Visual Communication System, through which golf swings can be professionally assessed on monitors. This enables students to compare their swings with those of some of the game’s greatest players. The system is complemented by ‘Durnian Frames’ - specially designed metal frames through which golfers can perfect their swing plane by following the line of the frame. These frames have been designed by Dennis Durnian (a pro on the Seniors Tour), and the AGGC is only the third teaching centre in the world to host this advanced technology. The frames are housed in a new building which also contains the mens and ladies changing rooms, a new club repair workshop, a club trial and demonstration centre where you can try out all the latest brands on the driving range before purchase, and a coffee shop on the first floor. Adjacent to the Academy is a 30-bay floodlit grass driving range and practice chipping and putting areas, both grass and sand, where golfers can hone their skills. The Academy has a club repair and fitting centre which offers a wide range of services, including re-gripping, re-shafting of wooden and metal heads, swing weighting and shortening and lengthening of clubs. Plans are already well advanced for the construction of the nine-hole, par-35 floodlit grass course, expected to open in 2007. Is it tee time already? ■

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051

teaching technology in the world. Here, the process of learning golf is

ABU DHABI

GOLF

TOURNAMENT.


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052

ABU DHABI

N AT U R E ’ S W AY

NATURE’S WAY FROM WET, ROCKY WADIS IN THE EASTERN RANGES, TO GROVES OF TREES SCATTERED THROUGH THE DESERT SANDS, YOU WILL FIND ABU DHABI’S NATIVE ANIMALS BOTH AWESOME AND DISTINCTIVE.

D

espite best efforts to preserve the native Arabian fauna over

The Arabian Gulf and its shallow saline lagoons and extensive

the years, a number of indigenous species have become

mudflats serve as important winter-feeding grounds for millions of

extinct or are on the ‘endangered species’ list. However,

Arctic and central Asian migrant shorebirds.

increased environmental awareness

has resulted in policies

One hundred and twenty six thousand wetland birds were counted

designed to halt and reverse extinctions to save some of the world’s

in January during the 1995 Asian Waterfowl Census, including

most adored animals.

41,000 wildfowl, 42,000 waders, 38,000 gulls and 4,200 terns, so it is worthwhile spending some time watching the coasts

BIRD LIFE

and lagoons.

The desert is a surprising place to go looking for birds. However, in the open desert, you can find the Hoopoe Lark, Desert Warbler and

ARABIAN ANIMALS

Desert Wheatear. Flat savannah areas between dunes are favoured

The beautiful Arabian Oryx once roamed the entire Arabian

by Flocks of Black-crowned Finch Lark. Brown-necked Ravens are

peninsula until it became extinct as a wild species in the early 1960s.

usually encountered in the sand desert areas, particularly inland from

However, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan had a few captive

Umm al Quwain.

animals that bred well and today, there are several herds at various

Nearer the mountains, east of Al Ain to Ras al-Khaimah, one can

locations in Abu Dhabi. They are the largest of the Arabian Antelopes

spot Redtailed Wheatear and Arabian Babbler, while Eastern Pied

and roam the open desert, able to live in areas without trees or

Wheatear is likely to be found perched low in a tree at the base of

standing water. Rather, they rely on the moisture obtained from food

the foothills.

and can conserve water by a special adaptation of their kidneys.

The mountainous areas of the Emirates contain a network of wadis

An Oryx’s horns are up to 90 centimetres with sharp points which

and a scattering of villages and small towns. While out four-wheel

can be deadly weapons amongst bulls that are fighting for superiority

driving, or ‘wadi-bashing’ as it is colloquially called, take some time

in a herd. They are able to have calves all year round, with peaks in

out to look for Hume’s Wheatear, easily identified by its contrasting

spring and autumn. The cow has only one young at a time.

black-and-white plumage. The mountains also support bird residents

When born, the calf is a sandy-brown colour enabling it to blend in

such as the Sand Partridge, Desert Lark and the Pale Crag Martin.

with its natural habitat. During the first days of its life, the Oryx calf

A drive up to the top of Jebel Hafit near Al Ain, should provide a few

lies in a shallow scrape for most of the day, relying on its camouflage

glimpses of Hume’s Wheatear and possibly a rare sighting of the more

to avoid predators, and only when it is able to keep up with the herd

elusive Hooded Wheatear. Most of the indigenous species inhabiting

will it follow the mother throughout the day.

the mountains rarely stray far from their habitat so it is worth spending

Another majestic beast found on the gravel plains, the sand

some time searching for the more promising looking wadis.

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deserts and the mountains is the Arabian Mountain Gazelle. It has a

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delicate body, weighing only 10 to 14 kilograms, and can reach

effort, spearheaded by the Arabian Leopard Trust, which aims at

speeds of 65 kilometres per hour if it needs to escape danger.

preserving the mountain habitat with all its wildlife.

The Mountain Gazelle has a pure white belly with a dark to black

Leopards are not animals of the open desert and only found in

stripe on its flanks that changes to dark beige or brown on the back,

mountains areas where permanent water sources exist. In this arid

the neck and the head. The facial markings consist of various shades of brown with two white stripes extending from the eyes towards the nostrils. Females

terrain, they require large territories in order to find enough food which means that even at the best of times, there have never been many leopards in this area.

give birth to their single fawn during any month, but with natural

As they are solitary animals, their territory is fiercely defended

peaks in spring and autumn. Most grazing activity takes place at

against intruders. While the area of a male might overlap with the

dawn and dusk. They rest during the hottest hours of the day under

territories of several females, no other animal of the same sex is

any shelter available, which may be a cave for those that inhabit

allowed near what the leopard considers to be the core of its range. ■

the mountains. Undoubtedly the most famous mammal is the Arabian Leopard. Sadly, its celebrity is due to its ‘endangered species’ status. A spate

■ Information from the official website of the UAE Ministry of

of killings by hunters in the early 1990s triggered a conservation

Information and Culture - www.the-emirates.com

ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SIX THOUSAND WETLAND BIRDS WERE COUNTED IN JANUARY DURING THE 1995 ASIAN WATERFOWL CENSUS, INCLUDING 41,000 WILDFOWL, 42,000 WADERS, 38,000 GULLS AND 4,200 TERNS, SO IT IS WORTHWHILE SPENDING

053

ABU DHABI

N AT U R E ’ S W AY

SOME TIME WATCHING THE COASTS AND LAGOONS.


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EX P LO R I N G T H E UA E

EXPLORING THE UAE

ABU DHABI

DUBAI

buildings, with their distinctive Islamic architecture and particularly,

A short journey by air taxi, or 170 kilometres (two hours) by car,

its two souks which are famous throughout the region.

054

EACH OF THE SEVEN EMIRATES WHICH CONSTITUTE THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES HAS ITS OWN CHARACTER AND POINTS OF INTEREST TO ATTRACT THE INTREPID EXPLORER. ABU DHABI IS A CONVENIENT STARTING POINT FOR EXCURSIONS TO ITS NORTHERN, SOUTHERN AND EASTERN NEIGHBOURS.

modern luxury malls.

finds fast-paced Dubai. Visitors can play golf on rolling green

Sharjah is the only state in the UAE with coastline on both the

fairways, make shopping forays into vast atmospheric souks or

Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Halfway between coasts, where the desert gives way to a fertile plain, is the oasis of Dhaid. The

Simply stroll the streets taking in the contrasting sights of old and

best reason for a stopover here is to sample the beautiful

new, from the graceful windtowers on old mud-walled houses to the

strawberries and other fruits and vegetables destined for the

soaring Etisalat telecommunications landmark.

tables of Europe.

A hustling, bustling port city, Dubai attracts a large amount of foreign trade and industry.

KHOR FAKKAN

Capital of the second largest emirate and the commercial heart of

On Sharjah’s eastern coast is the popular beach resort of Khor

the UAE, it sprawls out either side of a picturesque natural

Fakkan, which features a luxury hotel and ideal waters for snorkelling

deepwater inlet, The Creek.

and diving.

Here ancient wooden dhows still load cargo at the quayside providing a glimpse of an Arab sea trading culture which is

UMM AL QUWAIN

thousands of years old.

Further north is the emirate of Umm Al Quwain. A flat coastal region

The tourist is pampered in Dubai at magnificent luxury hotels

devoted primarily to farming and fishing, it is developing its historic

including several beach resorts. The range of leisure activities

towers and forts and thrilling tradition of horse and camel racing, into

available makes Dubai a delightful holiday playground.

tourist attractions.

By day, there are water sports and wadi-bashing, sand-skiing and scuba-diving. By night, dining and dancing on a moonlight cruise,

FUJAIRAH

feasting under the stars out on a desert safari, or sampling exotic

Further down the east coast and nestling in the shadows of the Hajar

cuisine from the international selection available in Dubai’s fine

mountains, is the quiet eastern emirate of Fujairah which has even

restaurants.

more beautiful beaches, and some of the best wadi-bashing country. There are no sand dunes in this part of the world - water runs off the

SHARJAH

mountains irrigating the fertile farmland below. Fujairah has

The town of Sharjah, a ten-minute drive beyond Dubai, is steeped in

excellent commercial port facilities and, because it is outside the

history, having been the busiest port in the region until sea trade

Strait of Hormuz, strategic importance as a safe haven for oil tankers

moved to The Creek last century. Tourists are attracted by its

and cargo vessels in times of war.

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AJMAN Hemmed in between Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain on the Arabian Gulf, is Ajman, the smallest emirate in the UAE, which is rapidly becoming a centre for small entrepreneurial business ventures. With an eye to attracting holiday makers, the emirate has plans to develop off-shore Safia Island into a coastal tourist resort. Meanwhile, visitors can enjoy learning about traditional local crafts particularly dhow-building - and appreciate the artistry involved in converting gold bars into Bedouin jewellry. RAS AL KHAIMAH The northern-most emirate is Ras Al Khaimah, dense with history and breathtaking scenery. This ancient seaport and its several archeological sites yield fascinating material for the historian. The landscape also has much to offer the adventurous traveller including beaches, plains, forests, fertile farmlands, red-duned desert rolling up to rugged mountains and thermal springs. The Bedouin on its borders place camel racing high on the social calendar. A variety of excellent fruits and vegetables are grown here. At a Baba-style pots are made and decorated in traditional style using

055

ABU DHABI

chicken feathers. â–

EX P LO R I N G T H E UA E

pottery near Shimal, a few kilometres north of Ras Al Khaimah, Ali

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A COSMOPOLITAN FLAVOUR

ABU DHABI

H

056

A C O S M O P O L I TA N F L AV O U R

ABU DHABI’S COSMOPOLITAN FLAVOUR IS MATCHED BY THE CITY’S MANY RESTAURANTS AND ENTERTAINMENT VENUES, WHICH PROVIDE A TRULY INTERNATIONAL ARRAY OF CHOICES FOR THE VISITOR.

often present and the standard of service is on a par with the best in

otels provide a remarkable number of dining options and serve not only their own guests, but also large numbers of local residents.

Coffee shops, fine dining restaurants and speciality outlets are

the world. Top class restaurants in the city’s hotels include French, Italian, Swiss, Mediterranean, Spanish, Greek, British to German. Asia is equally well represented. Outside the hotels, there are fantastic dining destinations around the city. While restaurants located outside hotel and club premises are not permitted to serve alcohol, all are air-conditioned, clean and are often culinary adventures in their own right. MIDDLE EAST CUISINE Abu Dhabi is an excellent place to sample all types of Gulf and Middle Eastern cuisine, including Iranian, Moroccan and Lebanese. Arabian food makes up an important part of most buffet spreads.

DELICIOUS REGIONAL DESSERTS INCLUDE: Umm Ali (literally ‘Mother of Ali’): a type of bread pudding.

SPECIALITIES INCLUDE:

Esh asaraya (meaning ‘bread of the harem’): a sweet kind of

Hoummus: a dip made from chick-peas and sesame seeds.

cheesecake with a cream topping.

Tabbouleh: chopped parsley, mint and crushed wheat.

Mehalabiya: a pudding sprinkled with rosewater and pistachios.

Ghuzi: a whole roast lamb on a bed of rice mixed with nuts.

Visitors especially enjoy fresh fish from the Arabian Gulf and the

Wara enab: vine leaves stuffed with rice.

Indian Ocean — lobster, cigale, crab, hammour, shrimp, tuna,

Koussa mahshi: stuffed courgettes.

kingfish, pomfret and red snapper. A traditional Middle Eastern

LOCAL DISHES INCLUDE:

with salad and rolled inside a pocket of Arabic bread and

Matchbous: spiced lamb with rice.

sold in many small outlets around the city. Standards of

Hareis: a rich delicacy of slow-cooked wheat and tender lamb.

international cuisine in Abu Dhabi are high and the choice is wide.

Seafood served with specially seasoned rice.

Bon appetite! ■

snack is the shawarma — grilled shavings of lamb or chicken, mixed

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EL SOMBRERO

Flavours, the place where creativity

In our award-winning Mexican

meets with only the best products

restaurant, we show you that

and spices available along the spice

Mexican cooking is more than

route – blend the two together, add

indigenous dishes journeying

a select team of master chefs and

through the centuries. It is the

the result is a taste sensation. Live

grafting of the fruits and

entertainment daily.

vegetables, meats, grains and

057

FLAVOURS

ABU DHABI

DINING

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spices of the old world onto the Opening hours:

root stock of the native foods,

Breakfast 6–10:30am

resulting in a cuisine that reflects

Lunch midday–4pm

this lively culture. Live

Dinner 7pm–midnight

entertainment from Saturday to Thursday. BRAVO

Opening hours:

Opening hours:

Offers an array of traditional

Lunch Thursdays midday–4pm

Lunch midday–4pm

Spanish tapas and sangrias in a

Dinner 4pm until late

Dinner 7pm–midnight

warm and cosy atmosphere. Sit inside or outside on the wooden deck balcony and enjoy the magnificent view while feasting on your meal. Located at the resort entrance.

SHERATON ABU DHABI RESORT & TOWERS

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16549_1

Corniche Road PO Box 640, Abu Dhabi, UAE tel: (9712) 677 3333 fax: (9712) 672 5149 email: sheraton.abudhabi@sheraton.com

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ABU DHABI

RODEO GRILL

available. There is pretty much

BENIHANA

you. In addition to the Grand

Abu Dhabi’s first steak restaurant

something to suit every taste, but

Benihana, offering a unique blend

Teppanyaki table, there is a private

offers large, green leather chairs

first and foremost Rodeo Grill is a

of exotic Japanese dishes with a

area, which can accommodate

to sit into while you tuck into

place to enjoy good, tasty steaks.

dazzling performance by the chef.

12 people.

058

DINING

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wonderful cuts of fillet, rib eye or

A comprehensive collection of

At this latest addition to the chain

The main menu is made up of

strip, as well as T-bone and

classic and new world vintages are

of world famous restaurants,

different sections: specialties,

porterhouse steaks cooked just

available to accompany your

a meal is a truly unforgettable

traditional and chef’s choices in

as you like them. Comfort and

sumptuous meal. The restaurant

experience. Chefs are highly

addition to the separate sushi

indulgence are what you will

features an open grill kitchen and

skilled in both the art of

menu. The wine selection is

experience at Rodeo Grill in an

for those who desire privacy, a

entertainment and the preparation

very well balanced with the style

extremely stylish setting with

private dining room is available.

of fresh steaks, seafood,

of food, verging towards the

and Sushi in traditional

lighter tastes, including some very

wonderful food. There is also an impressive range

Open daily from 12 noon to

Japanese styles.

fine clarets.

of vegetarian and fish starters and

3:30pm and from 7pm to 11:30pm

The deco immediately strikes you,

By bringing Japanese food into

main courses as well as a display

email: rodeogrill.beach@rotana.com

with a mixture of bamboo and

the mainstream and pioneering

wood panelling covering the walls

its "entertainment" style of

to create this calm feeling, with

presentation, Benihana has also

Japanese touches tastefully

paved the way for the popularity of

displayed around the walls and

other Japanese cooking styles and

shelves, which belies the fun in

food products.

station with hand tossed Caesars

store. In one corner of the

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restaurant, you will find a sushi and

Open daily from 12:00 noon to

sashimi bar, where you can sit and

3:30 and from 7:00 to 11:30 pm

watch the chef preparing them for

email: benihana.beach@rotana.com

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PREGO’S

a classic tiramisu and a freshly

TRADER VIC’S

around its unique Chinese oven,

Prego’s has all the charm of a

made cappuccino. With a beautiful

This stalwart of Abu Dhabi nightlife

dating back to the Han Dynasty.

traditional Italian trattoria with a

terrace, Prego’s is a great place to

now assumes its rightful place as

The oven, with its soaring

strong leaning to the stylish and

eat at any time of the day or night.

one of the Capital’s finest places

temperatures, is essential to many

the contemporary. The restaurant

And if you like what you eat so

to hang out. The Beach Rotana

of the dishes offered at Trader

balances the feeling of old and

much you want to try and recreate

Hotel & Towers opened this

Vic’s. A larger cocktail area leading

new perfectly. A vast range of food

it at home, there is even a deli

restaurant in April 1994 and there

into the dining room will greet

is available in this impressive

selling the ingredients we use in

can be few residents of the capital

guests, with the familiar

restaurant from antipasti and

the kitchen.

who have not enjoyed the unique

woodcarvings and aquariums

soups, to meat and fish dishes,

Prego’s is a perfect place for

style and flavors of Trader Vic’s.

playing a major role in creating

pizza, pasta and of course,

business lunches or an intimate

In fact, such is its popularity,

just the right ambience. Friendly

delicious Italian desserts.

dinner for two, with wonderful

tables are a prized commodity

and roomy, the Mai Tai bar is an

Feast on such treats as veal

surroundings and stylish cooking.

on many nights and reservations

ideal place to sit and chat while

are essential.

sipping on one of the house specialty cocktails.

medallions with artichokes and fava beans or sea bass fillet with

Open daily from 12 noon

The restaurant is large with few

warm salad of spinach, mushroom,

to 11:30pm

nooks and crannies to hide away

shallots and baby potatoes. It

email: pregos.beach@rotana.com

in, but it has a vast collection of

Open daily from 12pm to 3.30 pm

really is the stuff Italian dreams are

canoes and other South Seas

and 7pm to 11.30pm featuring

made of. Round off your meal with

paraphernalia, creating an

specialities of Pacific and

ambiance that is favorable for a

Caribbean cuisine along with live

great lunch or dinner.

entertainment by a Cuban band.

Retaining the Polynesian style and

Happy hour is from 5pm till 7 pm.

décor the restaurant centers

Trader Vic’s Mai Tai bar opens at 5.00pm email: tradervics.beach@rotana.com

BEACH ROTANA HOTEL & TOWERS

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Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 644 3000 fax: (971 2) 6442111 email: beach.hotel@rotana.com

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ABU DHABI

CHEQUERS

Its unique black and white interior

Sample the delights of one of Abu

has marked Chequers on most

Dhabi's most popular dining

visitors' memories as a restaurant

establishments in the Sands Hotel,

of distinction. However it retains

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DINING

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where guests can enjoy an

its easy going and welcoming

eclectic array of dishes and styles

ambience which embraces all

from all over the world and the

events, whether a romantic dinner

menu tempts diners with

for two, a family celebration, an

mouthwatering dishes.

upbeat business dinner, or simply

The menu is designed to satisfy

a place to meet friends and enjoy a

the most discriminating of tastes,

relaxed evening with excellent

offering a variety of Continental

cuisine. All this in addition to the

and Mediterranean dishes, in

Live Entertainment ensures an

addition to the wide selection of

unforgettable evening.

European Wines & Vintages and a well chosen selection of New World Wines.

CHEQUERS

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Sands Hotel Abu Dhabi PO Box 32430, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 633 5335 fax: (971 2) 633 5766 email: sandshot@emirates.net.ae

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12:04 PM

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THE JAZZ BAR AND DINING

Named after the discoverer,

Chic, classy and the most popular

Vasco’s is a lively modern

nightspot in Abu Dhabi, The Jazz

restaurant serving tastes from the

Bar is a place not to be missed. It

far corners of the globe. Choose

features a live six-piece Jazz band

to dine inside or relax out on the

every night, guaranteed to get you

deck enjoying the views of the

up and dancing. Request your

Arabian Gulf.

favourite song, choose off our

Vasco’s is a unique restaurant

award-winning menu or pick a

catering to all of our guest’s needs;

cocktail mixed to perfection.

no request is too much for our

The choice is yours.

dedicated team.

The Jazz Bar, located in the

Vasco’s blends the east and the

Hemingway’s complex at the

west to create an unforgettable

rear of the Hotel.

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VASCO’S

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dining experience. Vasco’s is located at the entrance

Open Saturday to Thursday

of the Hiltonia Beach Club.

7pm to 1pm

Open daily from 12noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm

HILTON ABU DHABI PO Box 877, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates fax: (02) 6811 292

16229_2

Vasco’s tel: (02) 692 4328 Jazz Bar tel: (02) 692 4562

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ABU DHABI

LE BISTROT

Le Bistrot offers lovers of French

Opening hours

Luscious, tasty and healthy

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DINING

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cuisine. At Le Bistrot, cooking is a

Open Sunday to Friday

ingredients.

Opening hours

major form of art, as inspiring as

Lunch 12.30pm – 3.30pm

Talay gives you a tremendous

Open Saturday to Friday

the breathtaking paintings and

Dinner 7.00pm – 12.00am

choice from red, green, yellow,

12.30pm – 3.30pm,

poetry from France.

mussaman and jungle curries, with

7.00pm – 12.00am

A relaxed and warm ambience suits

your choice of meats. Famous for

everyone and all occasions, with a

its seafood, with favourites

choice of indoor and outdoor

including lobster, crab, prawn,

seating areas. The chef will dazzle

various types of fish, which you can

you with a selection of scrumptious

savour while overlooking the blue

French flavours for you to savour.

seas of the Arabian gulf.

Le Bistrot is one of 15 restaurants

TALAY

every Tuesday.

Sophisticated, good taste and a

and bars in Le Meridien Abu Dhabi.

At Talay, you can experience one

Whatever dish you choose the

of the world’s finest cuisines – Thai.

result will be the same – delicious!

pleasant atmosphere – that’s what

Indulge in ‘Ar Han Thai Thai‘ buffet

16219_3

LE MERIDIEN ABU DHABI tel: 02 644 6666 email: fb@lemeridienabudhabi.ae

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12:22 PM

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Retaining the Polynesian style and

MIN ZAMAN

The fresh fruit juices and desserts

This world famous restaurant will

décor the restaurant has a large

“Min Zaman” means the

add to the enjoyment of the meal.

transport you into a Polynesian

cocktail area leading into the

yesteryears, this unique name

No Lebanese meal is complete

fantasy with its Aquarians and

dining room, which greet guests

belongs to the authentic Lebanese

without enjoying one of the exotic

South Sea décor and Mai Tai bar.

with wood carvings and aquariums

restaurant situated on the ground

flavoured ‘Shishas’ while being

Centered around its Chinese oven,

to create just the

floor of the Al Ain Rotana Hotel.

entertained by the singing,

dating back to the Han Dynasty,

right ambience.

Min Zaman, as the name suggests,

entertainment show and of course

takes you back to the tradition and

the world famous belly dancing.

Trader Vic’s dishes will enthrall your taste buds and stimulate your

Open daily from 12pm to 3pm and

heritage of Lebanon.

A truly magnificent experience

imagination. There can be few

7pm to 11:30pm, featuring

This journey back in time starts

to savor.

residents in Al Ain who have not

specialties of Pacific and

with the decoration, which truly

enjoyed the unique style and

Caribbean cuisine along with live

transports you. Tinted glass

Min Zaman opens daily from

flavours of Trader Vic’s. In fact,

entertainment by a Cuban band.

windows, walls adored with old

6.00pm till 2.30am.

such is its popularity, tables are a

Happy hour is from 7pm to 9pm.

time guns and wonderful lanterns

Email: alain.hotel@rotana.com

prized commodity on many nights

Trader Vic’s Mai Tai bar

create a fantastic ambiance. The

and reservations are essential.

opens all day.

relaxed and authentic Lebanese

The restaurant is large with few

Email: tradervics.alain@rotana.com

atmosphere is coupled with

nooks and crannies to hide away

delicious Lebanese cuisine. From

in, but it has a vast collection of

the big variety of hot and cold

canoes and other South Seas

Mezzas and succulent grilled

paraphernalia, and the ambiance is

specialties, you have a menu with

favourable for a great lunch

a wide selection to choose from.

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TRADER VIC’S

ABU DHABI

DINING

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or dinner.

AL AIN ROTANA HOTEL

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3:34 PM

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ABU DHABI

Cristal, the Capital’s first Cigar and

Moroccan, there’s only one place

Champagne bar boasts a persona

to go.

of being most discreet and distinct,

Opening hours: 7pm – 2am

exuding an exclusive club

(except Fridays)

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DINING

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atmosphere.

Thursdays: 7pm – 3am

Opening hours: 3pm – 2am Fridays: 5pm – 2am

Sevilo’s Italian Restaurant A distinctive menu of Italian flair is

Marakesh – picture Morocco with

showcased amidst stylishly relaxed

its opulence and celebrated

surroundings.

elegance, add belly dancers and

Opening hours: Midday – 3 pm

home-made cuisine, and you’ve got

7 pm – 11.30 pm

the perfect recipe for an enchanting evening.

International Seafood Experience

Every Tuesday night, Marakesh at

at Sevilo’s

the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi

Every Wednesday night a buffet of

The Friday fill-up!

presents a spectacular buffet

exquisite fresh seafood is

The Friday Brunch at Sevilo’s

featuring a host of Moroccan

presented, with marvelous cooking

Italian Restaurant: from noon every

specialties, including pastilla,

styles from around the world. All of

Friday, you can fill up on salads,

briouat, harira, couscous, tagine,

this for only Dhs. 145 net per

sushi, grills, barbeques, shawirmas,

faisinjan and much more.

person including house beverages

pastas, roasts and selected drinks.

So, if you want your fill of all things

MILLENNIUM HOTEL ABU DHABI

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tel: (971 2) 626 2700 fax: (971 2) 626 0333 P O Box 44486, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi email: sales.abudhabi@mill-cop.com

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25/6/04

11:58 AM

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The next night the Garden

The Wok is a Far Eastern bistro

hot and sour soup. There is also an

glass rooftop atrium and lush

restaurant goes Ribs, Bibs &

emphasizing simple, inexpensive,

extensive salad menu from Chicken

greenery, offers a relaxing

Pitchers and offers tempting food

yet high quality food.

Katsu Salad to Gado Gado.

ambiance in which to enjoy

items freshly prepared in front of

The restaurant catches the eye of

For the spice lovers there is a

delicious international cuisine

you at the live cooking stations.

every exotic food lover, with

delicious Thai Seafood Salad or the

throughout the whole day.

One of the highlights of the week is

choices from different set menus

Grilled Thai Beef Salad marinated

You can start with extensive

the Seafood Night, which offers an

and dishes to share.

with chili, lemon and onions.

breakfast buffet offering all

extensive variety of the best

Visit Thailand, China, Philippines,

Choose from endless variety of

different kinds of breakfast dishes

selection of fresh seafood, from

Vietnam and Japan. The scent of

seafood, be it local fish or Omani

from around the world. For

Sushi and Tempura to fresh

fresh ginger, frying garlic and

Lobster, the choice is manifold,

lunchtime, our guests can enjoy a

Lobster and Salmon to Paella….you

freshly chopped coriander will

as are the sauces tantalize the

refreshing salad bar and a wide

won’t know where to start first! The

introduce starters such as spicy

taste buds.

range of international food with

weekend can be celebrated at the

chicken wings, Wok’s Special

Enjoy a perfect end to an evening

daily specials.

Mighty Friday Brunch with fantastic

Snack Combination, fried spicy

by indulging in a selection of

In the evenings the restaurant plays

food from all around the world and

Thai fish cakes, sushi, Thai Mussels

mouth-watering desserts, such as

host to a selection of regular theme

face painting, videos, many games

and much more.

deep fried mango ice cream on a

nights and transforms one night

and Bouncy Castle for the children.

Enjoy original Tom Yam Goong with

strawberry coulis. A totally new

into a romantic Italian Tavern with

The Garden restaurant takes our

lemongrass, Soto Ayam-

dinning concept has also been

excellent Italian cuisine, another

guests every night on a culinary

Indonesian turmeric flavoured

introduced at The Wok, where for

night you will find yourself on a

journey to different parts of the

chicken broth or Szechuan style

Dhs. 99 per person, one can

Casablanca Night indulging

world and offers delicious food

choose a selection of delicious

yourself in Oriental specialties.

in a special ambiance.

starters, mains and desserts from the menu. This price also includes

THE WOK

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi PO Box 3541 Sheikh Hamdan Street tel: (971 2) 621 0000 fax: (971 2) 621 7444

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi PO Box 3541 Sheikh Hamdan Street tel: (971 2) 621 0000 fax: (971 2) 621 7444

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all beverages.

THE GARDEN RESTAURANT

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The Garden restaurant, with its

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Some travellers have received more than they bargained for by winning Dh$1,000,000 ($US276,000) with a Dh$500 ($US138) ticket in the famous Abu Dhabi Duty Free monthly raffle. Spoilt for souvenirs? Don’t go past the traditional coffee pot. It is a most identifiable symbol of the Arab way of life. It features on the

SHOPPING CAN BE ENTERTAINING, CULTURAL, EDUCATIONAL OR SERIOUS BUSINESS, DEPENDING ON WHAT’S ON THE SHOPPING LIST. IN ABU DHABI, INTENSE COMPETITION AND INSIGNIFICANT IMPORT DUTIES, LEAD TO SOME OF THE LOWEST PRICES IN THE WORLD.

one-dirham coin and is even commemorated in the design of one of the city’s magnificent fountains. Whether antique coffee pots or the mass produced souvenir versions and miniatures, this makes a wonderful gift or memento. Bedouin jewellery, typically chunky silver designs, sometimes combined

with

precious

stones,

makes

a

handsome

gift.

Traditionally, the jewellery was made by travelling foreign craftsmen

V

isitors first experience of shopping in Abu Dhabi is the

who melted down Maria Theresa dollars which were accepted

superb Duty Free area at Abu Dhabi’s International Airport.

currency at one time in the Gulf.

Opened in 1986, and recently expanded, the retail complex

Bedouin women traditionally received their first set of jewellery

has won countless awards for marketing, quality, efficiency,

when they were married. The Bedouin bride also received a wooden

advertising and business enterprise.

chest as a wedding gift from her husband and used it for storing

Brilliantly designed, the area contains about thirty different stores,

clothing and personal possessions.

their open layouts making it easy for customers to browse. There are no

The chest is still often the most prominent piece of furniture in an

counters, no queues and no aggressive sales people.

Arab home in Abu Dhabi. Antique chests are highly prized and quite

Transit passengers who are short of time find Abu Dhabi Duty Free

expensive, however handsome modern versions complete with

very convenient. As for the merchandise, the range is vast and

brass plates are readily available at a range of prices.

exciting. Gold and electronic items are the biggest sellers.

Department stores, fashion and giftware boutiques, antique

Local antiques and souvenirs are sold here too, sharing the space

shops, and other specialised stores, including some familiar

with international branded goods, including watches, fashions,

international names, are concentrated in Abu Dhabi’s main streets -

cameras, toys, perfumes and leather-goods.

Zayed the Second, Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Khalifa, which run

Small purchases are equally well covered - a book to read on the

parallel to and behind the Corniche. Just about everything found in the western world can be purchased here! ■

plane, confectionery to take home to the children, or necessities like

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THE BUSINESS OF SHOPPING

pharmaceuticals and toiletries, all displayed in a spectacular setting.

ABU DHABI

SHOPPING

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3:49 PM

Page 068

ABU DHABI

AREEJ

trained beauty consultants, who

Driving the region’s beauty and

provide their expertise and

fashion accessory retail industry,

knowledge on four different

Areej is a leading perfumes,

services: mini facials, skin analysis,

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SHOPPING

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cosmetics and accessories retail

makeovers and fragrance layering.

chain established in 1992, with 16

Areej’s highly qualified beauty

stores in the United Arab Emirates

consultants also deliver

and the Sultanate of Oman.

professional advice on all available

Areej’s core strength lies in the

products, in an effort to guide

optimum balance between pertinent

consumers in acquiring the most

product range, personalised service

suitable products to address their

and contemporary look and feel. Its

needs and preferences.

portfolio includes brands such as

In addition, Areej orchestrates

Estée Lauder, Guerlain, Clinique,

makeup demonstrations and skin

Christian Dior, La Prairie, Chanel,

care consultations by international

Givenchy, Clarins, Bvlgari, Armani,

beauty experts throughout the year.

YSL, Gucci, Lancôme, to name a

This is done in conjunction with key

mere few.

brands that are represented by

Areej goes beyond the established

visiting makeup artists from around

to offer a wide range of

the world.

complimentary services to all its customers in dedicated beauty rooms; a private and comfortable environment where clients are able to benefit from personal

16505_5

consultations by qualified and well-

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12:00 PM

Page 069

ABU DHABI

SHOPPING

29/6/04

AREEJ MARINA MALL

Located in Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi’s premier shopping centre, Areej Marina Mall is a landmark in

069

this chic venue overlooking the finest panorama of Abu Dhabi’s water line. On the main level of Marina Mall, Areej offers a truly unforgettable shopping experience with its

AREEJ FOTOUH AL KHAIR CENTRE

Its convenient location on Hamdan

vast selection of premium

Situated in Abu Dhabi’s first mall,

Street in the heart of Abu Dhabi

cosmetics and perfume brands,

Areej Fotouh Al Khair offers

makes it a walking distance from

latest fashion accessories and

shoppers an extensive collection of

the Cultural Centre, an Abu Dhabi

innovative gift ideas.

fragrances, cosmetics and

landmark housing the Opera House

accessories from the best and

and the Central Library.

most sought-after brands around the world.

AREEJ

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Areej stores in Abu Dhabi: Marina Mall tel: (971 2) 681 5662 fax: (971 2) 681 5663 email: arj-mm@altayer.com

Opening hours Saturday to Thursday 10am to 10pm Friday 2pm to 10pm

Fotouh Al Khair Centre tel: (971 2) 632 2265 fax: (971 2) 632 6668 email: arj-fak@altayer.com

Opening hours Saturday to Thursday 10am to 10pm Friday 4pm to 10pm

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12:08 PM

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ABU DHABI

Marina Mall is more than a

shopping centre that meets the

shopping destination. It represents

needs of its shoppers – a fact that

one of the largest and most

is manifested by the ever

important retail developments in

increasing number of visitors that

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SHOPPING

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Abu Dhabi. Situated on the Abu

frequent Marina Mall. The mall

Dhabi Breakwater and surrounded

currently receives an impressive

by the azure water of the Arabian

23,000 visitors per day (averaged)

Gulf, it is a wonderful location for

and expects to receive a total

the entire family to visit and enjoy.

of around 8.4 million visitors

Marina Mall covers a gross built

during 2004.

2

area of 125 000m and has a gross

Marina Mall’s unique location on

2

lettable area of 70 000m spread

the Breakwater places it within a

over four levels. With 3,500

five minute drive from downtown

parking bays, 400 of which are in

Abu Dhabi and the stylish

the underground basement, there is

residential areas of Khalidiyah, Al

more than sufficient parking space

Bateen etc. The stunning views

for all visitors.

from the mall over the Arabian Gulf,

The opening of Marina Mall in

the Abu Dhabi skyline and the

March 2001 was the culmination of

famous Abu Dhabi Corniche add

the owners’ dreams to establish a

value to a complete shopping

world-class shopping destination in

experience in a manner that few

Abu Dhabi. Marina Mall is a highly

shopping centres in the world are

successful and extremely exciting

able to offer.

MARINA MALL tel: (971 2) 681 2310 fax: (971 2) 681 8668 email: info@marinamall.ae

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12:09 PM

Page 071

On the food and entertainment

With its second phase

To accommodate the anticipated

offers a wide variety of

front, the Mall has a wide variety of

development well underway and

flow of shoppers to this part of the

merchandise from jewellery and

coffee shops and restaurants, a

scheduled for completion in July

mall, a two storey basement car

watches to designer clothing and

large entertainment centre that

2005, Marina Mall is set to

park with space for 800 vehicles is

electronics, children’s wear, sports

features state-of-the-art rides,

dominate the retail scene in Abu

also being constructed.

goods, perfumes and cosmetics,

games, Internet access and a host

Dhabi for a considerable period of

The extension of the mall will also

shoes and accessories, gift and

of attractions for all age groups.

time. This second phase will add

feature a 100m high viewing tower

household items.

Marina Mall is also home to one of

40 000m to the existing

071

With 165 retail outlets, Marina Mall

o

2

offering visitors a 360 view of the

2

Marina Mall is host to an

the largest cinema multiplexes in

70 000m gross leasable area,

surrounding area encompassing

impressive list of international

the UAE with nine screens and

giving the Mall a total leasable area

the Abu Dhabi skyline. The viewing

brands such as Tiffany & Co,

2,500 seats, operated by Cinestar.

of 110 000m . In terms of number

area will be accessible by elevators

Bvlgari, Mont Blanc, Levi’s, Gap,

For that elusive gift, Marina Mall

of stores, the second phase

from the first floor level of Phase II

Old Navy, Banana Republic, Elle,

offers visitors the convenience of

extension will add a further 180

within the mall, and the enclosed

Zara, Timberland, Carrefour, Ikea

gift vouchers, available in

retail outlets to the existing 165

viewing platform will include a

and more. In addition there are the

denominations of AED 100, AED

existing outlets in the mall, giving

coffee shop and restaurant

excellent home grown brands such

50 and AED 25.

the mall an unrivalled 345 shops,

enabling visitors to take in the view

as Paris Gallery, Areej, Damas

all carefully selected to ensure that

of Abu Dhabi’s skyline in a relaxed

Jewellers, Can Can, Sun and Sand

the tenant mix meets the demands

environment.

Sports, Rivoli, Axiom, Crystal

of our shoppers.

Gallery, etc. who all call Marina

The entertainment complex in

For the convenience of shoppers,

Mall home.

Phase II will include a 32 lane,

Marina Mall is Open:

state-of-the-art bowling alley and a

Saturday to Wednesday

2

2

4000m indoor Alpine themed

10am–10pm

snow park with ski slope, ice rink,

Thursday 10am–11pm

snow tubing, climbing wall, Swiss

Friday 2pm–10pm

Chalet restaurant and other winter 16381_7

related leisure attractions.

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25/6/04

11:42 AM

Page 072

ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI MALL

Other international names include

The Mall offers a safe and secure

Abu Dhabi Mall is the largest

Bang and Olufsen Nokia, Bvlgari,

environment for youngsters out

shopping centre in the Capital

Virgin Megastore and Bombay. There

with their friends. The cool air

featuring a host of brand names

is even an enormous supermarket for

conditioned environment provides

072

SHOPPING

16384_6_AbuDhabi.qxd

and entertainment.

the consumer’s needs.

hours of relief from the searing heat

Abu Dhabi Mall has more than 200

The Mall boasts over 40 of the best

of the desert region. The teen

stores selling the latest in every

restaurant and food outlets serving

generation can enjoy a movie in the

type of product. Jewellery and

international cuisine to suit all

Cineplex, which boasts no less than

watches, leather goods, cosmetics

tastes. The large and well laid out

six screens, and view the very

and perfumes, home accessories

Food Court is just the place for a

latest box office releases or enjoy

and décor, carpets, books, music,

quick meal with family and friends.

video games in the action centre.

gift items and so much more from

Attractive coffee shops are dotted

For the younger set there is the fun

all around the world can be found

all around the Mall for that leisurely

packed Toy Town to keep them

here. Fashion outlets such as Max

break from shopping. Specialty

busy while parents shop. What’s

Mara, Mango, Betty Barclay,

outlets provide meals and snacks

more, an indoor bowling alley with

Promod, Bershka, Pull & Bear,

for the more discerning palates.

all the latest features is set to open

Massimo Dutti, Guess. Benneton,

soon and will provide even more

Esprit, La Senza, Vero Moda,

fun. All the entertainment centres

Pierre Cardin, Daniel Hechter ,

are helpful to parents who find it

Levis, Oilily can all be found here.

difficult to browse around the Mall with children in tow.

THE ABU DHABI MALL Customer Service & Information Desk tel: (971 2) 645 4858 fax: (971 2) 645 7737 email: customerservice@abudhabi-mall.com www.abudhabi-mall.com

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25/6/04

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Page 073

You can find a whole new world

Abu Dhabi Mall is buzzing the

of fabulous shopping in Abu Dhabi

whole year with exhibitions, special

right on your doorstep. With a host

promotions and sales, competitions

of brand names, exciting novelty

and community events. The main

stores, specialty outlets and

atrium is the perfect venue for book

entertainment attractions, the Abu

fairs, charity bazaars and musical

Dhabi Mall is a great place for total

shows. The Ramadan Bazaar

family fun.

073

A vibrant and energetic place,

ABU DHABI

SHOPPING

16384_6_AbuDhabi.qxd

focussing on traditional crafts, arts and antiques is a huge crowd puller

For more information, contact our

every year. Seasonal fashion shows

Customer Service Desk in the main

bring the latest in designer wear to

atrium, or call (971 2) 645 4858,

the fashion conscious residents of

email:

the Capital city. Fitness enthusiasts

customerservice@abudhabi-mall.com,

take advantage of the wide and

www.abudhabi-mall.com

well lit corridors and the air conditioned freedom to “Mall Walk� with the Abu Dhabi Mall Walkers Club. The idea is to stay fit, beat the heat and window shop while you walk! There is so much happening that there are 26,000

16384_6

visitors to the Mall per day.

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25/6/04

12:16 PM

Page 074

ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI DUTY FREE

Dior, Yves St.Laurent and many

GOLDEN CLASS

BE A MILLIONAIRE

Visitors’ first experience of

more, their open layouts making it

Another facility at Abu Dhabi

Some travellers receive more than

shopping in Abu Dhabi is the

easy for customers to browse

Airport is the Golden Class service

they bargained for when they win

superb Duty Free area at Abu

and choose.

which offers a comprehensive

the famous Abu Dhabi Duty Free

0 74

SHOPPING

16494_3_DutFree_0.qxd

Dhabi’s International Airport,

There are no counters, no queues

Meet-and-Assist service with fast

raffle. The raffle began in 1992, the

which is one of the leading Duty

and no aggressive sales people.

track through check-in and

first of its kind in the world by an

Frees in the world, both in terms of

As for the merchandise, the range

immigration, and access to the

airport retailer. Tickets were priced

quality and price.

is vast and exciting with gold and

luxurious VIP lounge, business

at Dh500 (US$138) offering a

Since it opened in 1986, the retail

electronic items being the biggest

centre and health club. Golden

chance to win Dh500,000

complex has won countless

sellers. Local antiques and

Class is available to all passengers,

(US$138,000).The raffle

awards for marketing, quality,

souvenirs are sold here too,

regardless of flight ticket class, at

programme has since been

efficiency, advertising and

sharing the space with

very reasonable prices. Annual

updated following extensive

business enterprise. Brilliantly

international branded goods,

memberships are available for

customer surveys to establish the

researched and designed, Abu

including watches, fashions,

frequent flyers offering good

preferred method of running the

Dhabi Duty Free pioneered the

cameras, toys, perfumes and

savings on the use of the service.

scheme. The prize is now Dh 1

shop-in-shop concept with

leathergoods. Small purchases are

Golden Class also offers luxurious

million (US$273,373) and tickets

branded corners for various

equally well covered- a book to

Mercedes E200 cars, strikingly

are still priced at Dh500 with the

prestigious international brands

read on the plane, confectionery to

branded with the Golden Class

draw conducted every month.

such as Gucci, Versace, Christian

take home to the children, or

livery,to transport passengers from

The ‘Be a Millionaire’ promotion is

necessities like pharmaceuticals

the terminal to Abu Dhabi City.

very popular amongst all travellers

and toiletries, all displayed in a

via Abu Dhabi International Airport

spectacular setting.

and it is also available to all travellers via Al Ain International Airport and the City Terminal, as well as online at www.addf.ae

ABU DHABI DUTY FREE For enquires contact the customer service hotline tel: (971 2) 575 7818

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25/6/04

12:16 PM

Page 075

club also boasts a teaching

CITY TERMINAL

collection at a specially designated

Transit passengers who are short

academy fitted with the most

In June 1999, Abu Dhabi Airport

“City Terminal Duty Free collection

of time find Abu Dhabi Duty

advanced and innovative golf

launched the first ever City

point” upon arrival at Abu Dhabi

Free very convenient with its

teaching technology in the world,

Terminal in the Middle East, yet

International Airport.

numerous facilities.

the Royle Golf Visual

again leading the field in

In addition to the comprehensive

Communication System, through

innovation and expansion. The city

A VIP lounge is available for the

shopping complex, there are

which swings can be

terminal eases travel pressures on

City Terminal travellers where they

various restaurants and cafeterias,

professionally assessed on

passengers and makes travelling

can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere

an airport hotel with well-

monitors which allow overlaying

out of Abu Dhabi International

and delicious meals. A fully

appointed rooms, a luxurious

of graphics, enabling students

Airport a pleasant experience.

equipped business centre has

lounge with comfortable sofas,

to compare their swing with those

Passengers can proceed to the

been set up for passengers, where

massage chairs and a bar, a

of some of the game’s greatest

City Terminal up to twenty four

travelling business executives can

business centre with Internet

players. This technology is

hours prior to their flight. Once the

do all their work, with access to fax

access, a fully fitted health club

complemented by Durnian

passenger has checked in at the

machines, professional secretaries

with gym, jacuzzi and sauna, and

Frames - unique metal frames

City Terminal, he can arrive at Abu

and Internet connection. Also,

even an 18-hole sand golf course

which correct the swing plane,

Dhabi International Airport up to

shower facilities are available

with a traditional English

enabling the student to feel the

35 minutes prior to the departure

for passengers in case they wish to

clubhouse and terrace, swimming

correct movement.

of his flight. Luggage is screened

refresh themselves prior to

through a security system and

departure. Luxury coaches are

transported to the international

available to transfer passengers to

airport and on to the aircraft. Once

the airport at very reasonable

the passenger has checked in his

prices. Abu Dhabi Airport is

luggage, he receives his boarding

continuing its expansion theme

card and he can proceed to the

into the new millennium with a

Duty Free counter to purchase

major programme of renovation

a wide range of Duty Free

works to further develop the

products through a catalogue,

airport facilities. 16494_2

pool and tennis courts. The golf

which will then be ready for

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AIRPORT HOTEL & GOLF CLUB

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25/6/04

12:10 PM

Page 076

ABU DHABI

shopping experience. In addition to

076

SHOPPING

16392_7_ParisGall_0.qxd

prominent.

the international myriad of fragrances, an area dedicated to Arabian fragrances is also The second floor hosts a full array of acclaimed watches, jewellery and fashion accessories from international brands, This level also hosts a dedicated gift-wrapping service for that extra special personal touch. The Paris Gallery Day Spa and Hair Salon is based on the third floor PARIS GALLERY...EXUDING A

Paris Gallery is now privileged to

housing the Paris Gallery Day

and is exclusively for women. This

WORLD OF BEAUTY

welcome you to its latest

Spa and Hair Salon, collectively

level operates as a complete one

Paris Gallery is synonymous with

showroom, Khalidiya, based in the

under one roof.

stop health and beauty shop, totally

trendsetting. The leading beauty,

heart of Abu Dhabi. Khalidiya is

The ground floor contains an air of

dedicated to the concept of

fashion and luxury retail business,

the flagship showroom and the

exclusiveness, housing a plethora of

pampering and also includes a fully

Paris Gallery provides prestigious

only one of its kind in the United

international fragrances and

equipped gymnasium, as well as

and contemporary products to

Arab Emirates.

cosmetics, complete with an

bridal suites. Ladies are welcome

satisfy its customer’s lifestyles and

Al Khalidiya boasts three levels,

informal patisserie. Here you can

to take advantage of a variety of

needs, nestled in a unique and

each floor concentrating on a

enjoy a cappuccino, whilst focusing

health and beauty treatments that

opulent ambience.

different forte, in addition to

on fashion news and current events

include a Moroccan bath, facials

on a suspended screen above. The

and body treatments, and

style is very reminiscent of the

makeovers for special occasions.

PARIS GALLERY

renaissance period, with water features adding to the ultimate

Khalidya Centre, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 667 9999

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25/6/04

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Page 077

ABU DHABI

SHOPPING

16392_7_ParisGall_0.qxd

This particular addition to the company’s portfolio will create a new dimension in retail service that covers beauty from top to toe. The

077

Clarins Institute is also available on this floor and offer various treatments utilising their specific range of products. “Expect the service levels to be unsurpassed as you venture from floor to floor, guided by the motto “Our customer is our guest”, a philosophy that permeates throughout each department”, says Mr Ismail Al-Fahim, Executive Director. In conclusion, Paris Gallery has taken every step to ensure that all of our customers’ needs are catered for, from valet parking to a dedicated gift wrapping section, in order to guarantee an extraordinary

16392_5

shopping extravaganza.

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16017_p078_Watches_index.qxd

1/7/04

4:20 PM

Page 078

WATCHES GALLERY

079 CARTIER

085 GEORGES V

080 PIAGET

086 ALLEN SILBERSTEIN

081 BVLGARI

087 CONCORD

082 CHOPARD

088 BREITLING

083 BOVET

089 HARRY WINSTON

078

ABU DHABI

Visit our website www.welcome-to.com

084 JAQUET DROZ

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15/6/04

5:56 PM

Page 079

079

ABU DHABI

W AT C H E S

16499_2_Cartier.qxd

Precious as well as creative,

Cartier Libre gives full expression

The result is an infinite harmony

balance of Art Deco... the black of

Cartier's jewellery watches explore

to Cartier's penchant for

of perspectives and optical

onyx, bracelets and hands... the

the world of past and future forms,

extravagance, geometric designs

illusions in which depth is the

white of diamonds, dials, gold and

highlighting their astonishing

and pure fantasy, and creates a

ultimate dimension.

rock crystal.

diversity through the choice of

truly distinctive style.

The unique Cartier touch is ever-

Cartier unites these opposing

rare materials.

Treading a fine line between

present, whether in an eccentric or

forces in an aura of elegance and

A clever twist on watches, both

understatement and excess, oval

graphic interpretation of time.

seduction to encircle the wrist.

extravagant and feminine, classic

dials entrance some, while

And so time ventures forth, playful

and historical, highly technical

rectangular shapes softened with

and charming, framed by the

and creative.

diamonds delight others.

understated lines of black and white celebrating the perfect

CARTIER

c

16499_2

Cartier Boutique Hamdan Street Al Manara Jewellery tel: (971 2) 627 0000

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16506_5_Piaget.qxd

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5:17 PM

Page 080

LIMELIGHT OVAL WATCH

their temptations: the soft colour of

New model 2004: four new

the bracelets, the sheen of the

references from the Limelight

alligator, the brilliance of the

collection, symbol of the Piaget

diamonds and the silk-like

jewellery collections, come in an

reflection of the rimes evoke a

extended oval case. The slightly

magical world. It sparkles with

over-dimensioned ellipse of the

charm and mischievousness. One

white gold case accentuates its

could almost say that this oval

delicate form. The subtle

Limelight watch is‌ a delicacy!

equilibrium of these drawn-out lines, while particularly harmonious, is reinforced by the play of the white gold flanges, which reflect the light and at the same time offering greater depth to the dial. Glamorous but not to the point of triviality, these new Limelight

ABU DHABI

HIGH JEWELLERY PIAGET POLO

aesthetic counterpoint, the power-

TOURBILLON

reserve at six o'clock perfects the

What could more fully and radiantly

overall equilibrium.

enshrine the full range of Piaget

Featuring all the distinguishing

080

W AT C H E S

watches take pleasure in diffusing

superlatives? Haute Horlogerie,

tokens of the original Piaget Polo,

high jewellery, audacity and

this watch is also characterised by

excessiveness merge within this

the superb gem cutting and setting

one-of-a-kind creation.

on the bracelet. Alternating

First and foremost, this

emerald-cut and baguette-cut

masterpiece houses the peak of

diamonds echo the godroon

horological complexity: a flying

pattern of the original Piaget Polo

tourbillon, mechanical Calibre

bracelet, while trapeze-cut

600P, a Manufacture Piaget

diamonds reconstitute the perfect

movement. Its carriage,

integration of case and bracelet,

revolving at a speed of one

the inimitable signature of the

revolution per minute and

Piaget Polo watch.

composed of 42 parts weighing just 0.2 grams, is beautifully highlighted by the blue sapphires set around its rim. Providing an

PIAGET

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16506_5

Al Manara Jewellery Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 626 2629 www.piaget.com

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29/6/04

5:19 PM

Page 081

ABU DHABI

W AT C H E S

16445_8_BvlgariWatches.qxd

081

Ricky Martin wearing Bvlgari Scuba 2000 Watch.

THE BVLGARI WATCHES

design, with its essential lines and

ERGON

aesthetic details, such as the

With a strong legacy of creating

harmonious volumes, makes these

Ergon is the latest Bvlgari creation,

applied diamond-processed hour

timeless jewellery, Bvlgari entered

rich collections, which include

a truly unique timepiece whose

indexes, as well as the juxtaposition

the world of watches by combining

classic, sports and ladies’ models,

dynamic, unconventional style

of satin-finished and polished

the prestige of Italian style with

instantly recognisable. It is this

perfectly blends elegance and

surfaces on the case in the steel

traditional Swiss experience.

well-defined, unmistakable design,

avant-garde design. Its assertive

models, while the anthracite dial,

Bvlgari watches are made to the

which is sometimes combined with

personality, a fusion of harmony

finely worked, distinguishes all

very highest levels of precision and

the use of unusual materials that

and energy, reflects the ideal

white gold models. Ergon is

to the most stringent quality

gives Bvlgari watches their appeal.

balance among luxurious

available in different variations

standards adopted in Swiss

materials, daring volumes and

either in stainless steel or in white

watchmaking. The extraordinary

purity of form. The ergonomically

gold, also with diamonds, and in

creativity and impact of Italian

arched, encircling shape of the

three sizes for men and women.

case forms a single unit with the

Bvlgari watches are available at

integrated bracelet.

exclusive stores:

Bold and versatile, Ergon is

Marina Mall tel: 02 681 8828

enhanced by the profusion of

Abu Dhabi Mall tel: 02 644 4363

BVLGARI 16445_8

Marina Mall tel: (971 2) 681 8828 Abu Dhabi Mall tel: (971 2) 644 4363

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15/6/04

6:11 PM

Page 082

ABU DHABI

LADIES WATCHES

While the large size is resolutely

HAPPY SNOWFLAKES

contemporary, the basic design has

The falling snow conjures up a

drawn inspiration from the pure Art

whole host of pleasant sensations

Déco period. The Roman numerals

082

W AT C H E S

16523_3_ChopardAdv.qxd

for everyone: coolness and

in the upper part are very much of

softness, as well as silence and

bezel in the form of a triple row of

MEN’S WATCHES

the “1925 style” yet play with the

beauty, since it clothes the world

brilliants. A white crocodile leather

DUAL TEC

shadows between 3 o’clock and 9

around us in a mantle of

or white vulcanised rubber strap

TWO TIMES, TWO TECHNOLOGIES

o’clock. The rays emanating from

immaculate purity.

reinforce the feeling of feathery

Designed for world travellers,

the centre of the hands of the

This "inseparable" jewellery set

softness exuded by these models.

people who cross as many borders

mechanical movement draw the

seeks to capture and hold

In the pendant, the flakes have

as they do time zones, the Chopard

eye towards the top with a very

something of this magic. Imagine a

stolen the place of the original

Dual Tec indicates two times, two

lovely pattern. Guilloched and

watch like an ice dream: white dial

"Happy Diamond". Crafted by

techniques, but one visual display.

silvered, the domed dial demands a

decorated with a snowflake, and a

assembling tiny brilliants, an uneven

The notion of duality has obviously

savoir-faire reserved for only a few

cloud of diamond flakes swirling

number of them spin gently in time

inspired the creator of this

rare artisans. With its lines and

inside. In the gem-set version, the

with the wearer's movements.

remarkable watch, who endowed it

shadows, the appearance of this

"snow" has even drifted on to the

Diamonds, flakes, or diamond

with a strong personality: two

timekeeper gives the impression

flakes... the formation of ice

displays to synchronize two time

that it is related to a sundial.

crystals follows much the same

zones; two movements, one an

Displaying the time of two

rules as those governing that of

automatic mechanical calibre and

meridians, the Dual Tec is the

precious stones. The enchanting

the other quartz, whose battery will

privileged companion of a

CHOPARD

spells cast by these natural

last two years.

cosmopolitan clientele for whom

phenomena are eloquently

Always looking to innovate, the

one life is not enough...

Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street Al Manara Jewellery tel: (971 2) 626 8000 fax: (971 2) 626 8999

expressed in HAPPY

creators guarantee that the watch

SNOWFLAKES, an elegy to the

will never stop; two times two

gentle beauty of winter.

hands, of which one is tritiumtreated

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16523_3

for ease in reading the time in both

Abu Dhabi Mall Al Manara Jewellery tel: (971 2) 645 7575

day and night.

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28/6/04

3:13 PM

Page 083

W AT C H E S

16525_5_Bovet.qxd

ABU DHABI

SPORTSTER

THE FLEURIER DRESS WATCH

With a belief that originality is the

The FLEURIER case creatively

essence of art, BOVET first made

adapts the pocket-watch to the

watches more than 180 years ago to

wrist, recalling the features of

show off the arts of European

Bovet’s 19th-century style - the

horology to the Chinese aristocracy.

sculpted bow, serpentine hands of

Today we still commission the best

blued steel and the domed dial of

craftsmen to display their talents in

fired enamel. Available in 28mm,

mechanical poetry, luminous

34mm and 39mm diameters,

enamels, exquisite hand painted

FLEURIER watches are in rose gold,

portraits or dramatic miniatures on

white gold or platinum. Their

mother-of-pearl dials.

mechanical haute horlogerie

Bovet movements are made to

movements are finished in Côtes de

specifications that demand

Genève pattern with blued-steel

supreme watchmaking skills. We

screws and engraved 22-carat gold

test those skills to the limits,

rotor for the self-winding models.

083

BOVET – AN EXOTIC HISTORY

FLEURIER

whether in the uncompromising

balanced structure, and puts the

countries. The chronograph haute

subsidiary dials in their logical places.

horlogerie self-winding movement

construction of a minute-repeater, a

SPORTSTER – AN ORIGINAL

The SPORTSTER’s case, in steel,

with a large date at noon is

tourbillon, or an elegant automatic

DESIGN CHRONOGRAPH.

gold or platinum, has a screw-in

decorated in Côtes de Genève with

caliber with perpetual calendar and

Bovet’s original case design for its

display back and is water-resistant to

blued screws and is certified

moon phase. We insist on the finest

model SPORTSTER, with the

100 metres. Dials are available in a

“Chronomètre Officiel” by the Swiss

workmanship and materials in every

chronograph buttons in their natural

large selection of contemporary

Official Chronometer Test Institute.

detail of our watches.

positions on either side of noon,

designs, among which the Chinese

gives the chronograph a more

index dial, a sales leader in many

BOVET is available in all countries of the GCC.

BOVET

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United Arab Emirates Abu Dhabi: Al Jaber Jewellery, Main Showroom, tel: (971 2) 634 0040 Dubai: Al Jaber Jewellery, Shangri-La Hotel Branch, tel: (971 4) 343 6663 Dubai: Istana Jewellers, Main Showroom, tel: (971 4) 265 1111

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24/6/04

2:37 PM

Page 084

ABU DHABI

LES LUNES

day, the hand indicates the exact

movement bridges and plate

a mechanical double-barrel self-

A complete calendar model, Les

phase of the moon until the cycle

enhanced with the ‘côtes de

winding movement with 72-hour

Lunes de Jaquet Droz indicates the

is complete. On entering a new

Genève’ decorative pattern.

power-reserve, jumping hour

hours, minutes, date, days, months

lunation, it jumps to its point

084

W AT C H E S

16436_3_Jaquet Droz.qxd

and lunations with a precision that

of departure.

Les Douze Villes by Jaquet Droz

disc carrying the names of twelve

only a handful of the greatest

‘Lancine’-type blued steel hands

means the world within reach; it

cities, and secret signature on the

master watchmakers can achieve.

indicate the hours, the minutes and

speaks of travel, business, and

movement. The "sunray" decorative

Its 18-carat gold-smoothed and

the lunation time. The ‘crescent

memories of special moments

pattern on its splendid 18-carat

gently rounded case measuring

moon’ blued steel hand points to

experienced in various places.

white gold oscillating weight is

40.5 millimetres in diameter serves

the date around the rim of the dial,

London, Geneva, Istanbul, Moscow,

revealed through a transparent

as a precious jewel-case for Jaquet

while the day and month appear

Dubai, Aspen, Mexico, New York,

sapphire crystal case-back, along

Droz Calibre 6553-4, a mechanical

through an aperture. They stand out

Shanghai, Tokyo, Sydney, Azores...

with the "côtes de Genève" ribbing

self-winding double-barrel

in luminous radiance against a

Twelve cities, twelve emotions,

on its bridges, bars and plate. Its

movement with 72-hour power-

slate-grey and opaline silvered dial

twelve present moments, twelve

slate-grey dial radiates a blend of

reserve. It also shows the date

enhanced with an applied metal ring

invitations to travel. Simply by

sophistication and understatement.

and features a ‘retrograding’ moon-

that is bevelled, drawn out with a file

pressing the pushpiece at 2

In its centre, a “guilloché” silvered

phase mechanism – a world first –

and secured by blued steel screws.

o'clock, the cities and their

subdial is framed by an applied

which displays the lunation in an

Its transparent sapphire crystal

respective times appear, evoking

metal ring secured with blued-steel

unprecedented way, reflecting the

case-back reveals a splendid

distinctive atmospheres,

screws and magnified by a domed

perfect magic of a moonlit night. A

oscillating weight in 22-carat gold

fragrances, musical ambiences and

sapphire crystal. A blued steel

lunation lasts 29.5 days. Day after

with ‘sun-ray’ motif, as well as the

whispers of love.

"Lancine" type hand indicates the

Crafted according to the principles

minutes. The jumping hours appear

of hand workmanship, and in

through a window, as do the city

keeping with the noblest

names. The bassine-shaped case,

JAQUET DROZ

watchmaking traditions, Les Douze

“Les Douzes Villes” pushpiece and

Villes by Jaquet Droz sublimates

the engraved crown are crafted in

Al Jaber Jewellery PO Box 5730, Abu Dhabi U.A.E tel: (971 2) 634 0040 fax: (971 2) 634 5551

the art of time. It is equipped with

18-carat white gold.

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display, time-zone indication on a

a Jaquet Droz Calibre 3663-4,

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23/6/04

10:57 AM

Page 085

complication – the big date.

range of exclusive watches in their

Legible, attractive and aesthetically

ladies and gents ‘Q & ‘V’

pleasing, the numbers appear in

collections. The watches have been

two separate openings.

designed as functional and simple

Situated at 12 o’clock, this

pieces of jewellery, with minimalist

discerning system matches the

styling, noble materials and

seconds dial. Strong, luxurious and

new ideas. The symbols that

sober, this watch is an example of

make GEORGEs V’s watches a

controlled equilibrium in a collection

luxury are found at the heart of

fond of grand complications.

085

GEORGES V company produces a

ABU DHABI

W A AT C H E S

16527_3_GeorgesV.qxd

these beautiful objects. « V » 2012 SPORT CHRONOGRAPH

recaptures all the great classics of

reveals a chronograph movement

« V » 1001 LARGE DATE

The chronograph ‘V’ 2012 is a

the watchmaking tradition.

produced exclusively for the

Simple and with an indisputable

highly specialised watch with

Powered by an ultra high-

Georges V company. The rotor,

presence, the ‘V’ 1001 possesses all

strong sporting potential.

performance automatic rewinding

engraved with the company’s

the characteristics of the Georges V

Its case, sculpted from a fine

system, ensuring a power-reserve

monogram, the watch’s individual

collection. Of generous proportions,

steel ingot, houses a chronograph

of around 45 hours.

serial number and a fine guilloche

the case houses a self-winding

calibre. Conceived with state-of-

The counterpoint of the large date

ornamentation, turns on top of a

automatic movement with a useful

the-art tools, this movement

placed at 12 o’clock accentuates

chronograph movement assembled

the charm of this sober piece with

and embellished by hand.

GEORGES V Al Jaber Jewellery PO Box 5730, Abu Dhabi U.A.E tel: (971 2) 634 0040 fax: (971 2) 634 5551 Dubai Branch (Shangri-La Hotel) tel: (971 4) 343 6663 fax: (971 4) 343 5900

c

rectangular push-pieces set at an

Characteristics:

angle, its short, rounded bracelet

Material: white gold, pink gold,

lugs, its steel bracelet with supple

yellow gold, steel or platinum

links, the ‘V’ 2012 chronograph

Settings: diamonds, rubies,

will be the companion of many

emeralds, sapphires

sport lovers of original, ultra-elite

Bracelet: metal or leather

products with limited distribution.

Dial: white, Blue or slate-grey

The sapphire crystal case back

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a slate-grey dial. With its reinforced


17/6/04

12:01 PM

Page 086

When the disappearance of

In the Bolido collection, newness is

mechanical watchmaking seemed

found in the Bolido Krono Titane,

almost inevitable, Silberstein joined

Krono Carbonfiber. The new Pav_

TIMEPIECES LIKE NO OTHER

Somewhere he could meet

the very restricted club of Swiss

collection offers the Jumbo Krono,

Alain Silberstein creates watches

those with a passion for his

manufacturers who were behind the

Krono Diamant, Smileday and

for everyday wear that are

watchmaking skills and creations.

rebirth of the mechanical watch.

GMT. The Rondo collection now

contemporary and genuine works

Born in Paris, he wanted to

In his workshop on the banks of

features the Rondo Krono Diamant,

of art. The movement is visible

rediscover the unique atmosphere

the Doubs River, Silberstein

Krono, GMT and Smileday.

through the transparent back, so

of the area in which he began his

today creates and produces each

The Bolido Krono from Alain

that the exceptional finish of the

art studies: St. Germain-des-Prés.

year with the help of his 20

Silberstein is a watch in steel or

piece can be admired. His latest

A ‘village’ within the city where

assistants, including six

titanium, with a streamlined profile

collections were launched at

students, artists, intellectuals and

watchmakers, nearly 3000

to evoke speed. Its mobile rollers

BASELWORLD 2004.

visitors from all over the world pass

watches in different collections.

adapt the watch perfectly to the

Like all creative artists, Alain

their time in bookstores, art

Exceptional timepieces like the

shape of the wrist.

Silberstein dreamt of a location

galleries, artists’ studios, and of

tourbillon, perpetual calendar,

In the Krono collection, the Krono

where he could present the full

course on café terraces! 200

sports chronograph watches,

Bauhaus features a 60-minute

range of his watches and clocks, as

Boulevard Saint-Germain (between

jewellery watches with diamonds

timer at the centre of the dial, in

well as those timepieces that he

Rue des Saints-Pères and Rue

and art watches with cloisonn_

order to give better visibility for

sometimes creates just for fun.

Saint-Guillaume) is Alain

dials, have again become part of

either sport or professional use.

Silberstein’s address in Paris.

the capital of French watchmaking,

There is a different smileday for

thanks to Silberstein.

every day of the week in the

At BASELWORLD 2004,

Smileday collection and the

Alain Silberstein introduced his

smileday can be set to suit

latest designs for 2004, including

any mood.

ALAIN SILBERSTEIN Al Masaood Jewellery Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 633 7800

Tourbillon Moon, Tourbillon Bleu, Tourbillon Blanc and

Al Ain tel: (971 3) 765 6875

Window Dragon. 16556_2

086

ABU DHABI

W AT C H E S

16556_2_AlainSilberst.qxd

email: masaood@emirates.net.ae

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1/7/04

11:49 AM

Page 087

patented latched crown protector.

unisex, and ladies' petite quartz

The Concord Saratoga XL is available

models crafted in solid 18-carat

with a black or silver scallop-

INNOVATIVE DESIGNS FOR TODAY

rose, white or yellow gold.

engraved dial complimented by an

At BASELWORLD 2004, Concord

The sleek, modern Concord

alligator or calfskin strap in black or

unveiled the Delirium XXV, the silver

Saratoga is now offered in a 36mm

brown. Watch connoisseurs can

anniversary edition of one of the

mid-size chronograph. This

enjoy viewing its elegantly engineered

most innovative designs in the

precision luxury sport watch is

and custom-decorated automatic

history of fine watchmaking.

crafted from stainless steel and

movement through the model's

Headquartered in Paramus, New

distinguished by an eight-sided

sapphire crystal exhibition caseback.

Jersey, Concord is selectively

diamond-set bezel, patented

The new Concord Saratoga SR is

distributed in the finest jewellery and

latched crown protector, and a

casual, sleek and versatile and is

department stores around the world

sculpturally curved woven-link

available in two stylish dial variations.

Created for connoisseurs of fine

bracelet. It features a silver scallop-

The La Scala Tonneau is now

Swiss watchmaking, the new

engraved or refined mother-of-

offered in a gents' chronograph and

Delirium XXV RĂŠserve de Marche

pearl dial with diamond markers

ladies' petite bracelet, while the new

in the new Delirium XXV collection

and three subdials.

Concord La Scala in 18-carat gold

is available in 50 limited edition,

An exceptional variation is available

features dials exquisitely rendered

numbered timepieces - 25 in 18-

detailed with a sparkling 15-diamond

in white mother-of-pearl, brilliantly

carat pink and white gold. The

ribbon bordering the centre zone and

detailed by diamond hour markers.

connecting the subdials.

dial that features a recessed, satin-

A sports luxury watch of strong,

rimmed centre dish, triangular

sophisticated design, the Concord

CONCORD

power-reserve indicator and

Saratoga is now also offered in a

Al Masaood Jewellery Khalid Bin Al Walid St tel: (971 2) 633 7800

calendar subdial. A sapphire crystal

striking oversized model featuring a

exhibition caseback reveals the

46mm stainless steel case. This

intricate workings of the manual

meticulously crafted watch is

mechanical movement.

distinguished by its distinctive,

The Delirium XXV collection

signature, eight-sided bezel and

Al Ain tel: (971 3) 765 6875

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singularly elegant soleil-engraved

model is further set apart by a

087

includes elegantly thin gents,'

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ABU DHABI

W AT C H E S

16688_1_Concord.qxd


25/6/04

1:01 PM

Page 088

088

ABU DHABI

W AT C H E S

16555_2_Breitling.qxd

SUPER AVENGER

Breitling brand, as well as its

these opulent lines that enhance

With the Avenger line, Breitling has

obsession with quality and

its functionality. The generous size

designed a series of products

performance. This genuine

of the dial and hands guarantees

meeting the highest demands in

thoroughbred is distinguished by its

perfect readability of both the time

terms of sturdiness, functionality

powerful, sophisticated lines, with a

and the measured times. The

and precision.

case boasting the respectable

oversized and non-slip crown and

The latest newcomer to this line is

diametre of 48.8 millimetres. The

pushpieces are extremely

the brand-new Super Avenger, a

Super Avenger is undoubtedly the

easy to handle.

chronograph that reflects the full

most voluminous Breitling

force and personality of the

chronograph, yet it is precisely

BREITLING Breitling Boutique, City Centre tel: (971 4) 295 4109

Sheraton Dubai Creek tel: (971 4) 228 4739

Wafi City tel: (971 4) 324 3530

Inter Continental, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 665 7120

Ritz Carlton, Dubai tel: (971 4) 399 5741

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Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 681 4122

Le Royal Meridien Jumeirah, Dubai tel: (971 4) 399 3090

email: brietl@emirates.net.ae www.breitling.com

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25/6/04

12:12 PM

Page 089

Attention centres on the dial,

sparkle of youthful style combined

TIMEPIECES

whose allure is heightened by its air

with the sparkle of precious stones

The Premier collection epitomises

of refinement. The fiery sparkle of

creates a new energy – sporty but

the creativity and inspiration that

diamonds, set into the white gold of

radiantly feminine.

animates Harry Winston’s creators

the bezel, lights up the natural

Classical but resolutely

and master watchmakers. The Lady

mother of pearl, which suddenly

contemporary, the Lady Premier is

Chronograph, one of the line’s most

reveals delicate nuances and

destined for a demanding woman

recognised faces, now expresses

depths. The three diamond-paved

of strong character, who will

time in all its complexity and sense

counters shimmer under the

delight in its subtle game of

of the absolute. Its unorthodox

passing chronograph hands.

seduction and paradox.

blend of precious materials proves

The bracelet was conceived to

beyond a doubt that opposites

create a sensual, fluid feeling on the

attract: diamonds, gold, mother-of-

wrist, while playing a game of

pearl and rubber harmonise in white

paradox. Polished white gold, set

on white in a chronograph of

with diamonds, comes up against the

cosmopolitan elegance.

shock of matte white rubber and falls

089

HARRY WINSTON – RARE

ABU DHABI

W AT C H E S

16439_3_HaryWinston.qxd

for the charm of the contrast. The

HARRY WINSTON Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street Al Manara Jewellery tel: (971 2) 627 3627

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Abu Dhabi Mall Al Manara Jewellery tel: (971 2) 645 7575

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16017_p090_Jewellery_index.qxd

1/7/04

3:52 PM

Page 090

JEWELLERY GALLERY

091 CARTIER

095 PIAGET

092 TIFFANY & CO

096 KUNOOZ

094 BVLGARI

097 TADMOR

090

ABU DHABI

Visit our website www.welcome-to.com

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1/7/04

11:47 AM

Page 091

091

ABU DHABI

JEWELLERY

16501_2_Cartier.qxd

PANTHER COLLECTION

Black for onyx, white for diamonds,

Among them brooches with onyx

Cartier devotes a new, modern-day

green for emeralds.

and diamond pompoms, sapphire

collection in shades of black, white

A wild and powerful feline whose

sphere necklaces, spotted pompom

and green to the heroine of its

splendour profile, muscular

rings and solid band bracelets.

bestiary. The Panther plays an

contours, regal stance, mysterious

A sensual collection full of

emblematic and totemic role in the

attitude, almond-shaped emerald

movement that is evocative of the

history of Cartier's jewellery design.

eyes, with a soft and yet fully alert

graceful stature of a dangerous and

expression, has inspired Cartier to

yet tamed wildcat. The Panther

design a myriad of creations.

collection is one in which each piece represents the strength and fragility of passionate femininity.

CARTIER

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Cartier Boutique Hamdan Street Al Manara Jewellery tel: (971 2) 627 0000

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21/6/04

5:40 PM

Page 092

092

ABU DHABI

JEWELLERY

16557_3_Tiffany & Co.qxd

to modern life. Tiffany’s designers

efficiency – accent casual, as well as

retooled the period’s design themes

more formal attire with a fresh

– clean lines, sheer forms and

masculine edge.

gleaming metallic surfaces – to

The Streamerica collection, like the

DAMAS CELEBRATES THE RISE

1930s industrial design movement

create an original jewellery

design period it emulates,

OF AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL

into the present.

collection in 18-carat white gold

communicates energy, motion and

DESIGN WITH TIFFANY & CO.’S

The new Streamerica jewellery

with a smooth satin finish.

futurity. These qualities are

STREAMERICA COLLECTION

collection is inspired by the first

For women, Streamerica offers

accelerated with precision

Tiffany & Co. expands its modern

generation of American industrial

many options of pared-down

craftsmanship, forming a strikingly

Streamerica collection, a

designers, whose dynamic

perfection, including a flexible link

new style of jewellery that, like

celebration of a bold and visionary

innovations launched the aeronautic

necklace and bracelet, earrings,

Tiffany & Co., is long running and in

period of American design, with

age and a new world of machines

ring, bangle and strongly defined

consummate taste.

sleek new jewellery that brings the

that brought facility and prosperity

cuff. Each is studded with

TIFFANY & CO. shops in Abu

diamonds, suggesting rivets on an

Dhabi are located at Marina Mall tel:

airplane wing or the porthole of a

(971 2) 681 4477 and Al

luxury liner. The look is pure

Khaleediayah in Khalid Bin Al

sophistication: highly wearable, with

Waleed Street tel: (971 2) 632 3717

an air of refined elegance.

and at three major shopping malls

For men, Streamerica shifts into

in Dubai.

TIFFANY & CO. Abu Dhabi Marina Mall tel: (971 2) 681 4477

overdrive with accessories of real

Al Khalidia Khalid Bin Al Waleed Street tel: (971 2) 632 3717

versatility. A sculptural link bracelet and cufflinks – as streamlined as machines geared for speed and

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1/7/04

11:24 AM

Page 094

Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman wearing Bvlgari jewellery.

BVLGARI JEWELLERY

excellence, a quest for a bold,

ASTRALE

Incandescent beauty transformed

For over a century, Bvlgari has

distinctive style and aesthetic

Astrale, Bvlgari’s latest fine

into pattern, Astrale is perfection

been the very symbol of Italian style

research reminiscent of the work

jewellery collection, is a collection

and enchanting lightness, as

in fine jewellery, a style that

done in the Renaissance

of precious and glittering icicles of

breathless as its diamonds in

inspires and dazzles for its perfect

‘workshops’, all Bvlgari products

contemporary nostalgia. Graceful

blazing circles and rows.

blend of classical beauty and

are infused with classical

and versatile, Astrale combines

contemporary design. Founded

proportions and a sense of volume,

dazzling brightness with

Bvlgari jewellery available at

during the end of the 19th century

yet with a modern twist. A style like

harmonious shapes, such as

exclusive stores:

by Sotirio Bvlgari, a descendant of

no other, Bvlgari continues to

concentric loops and moving

Marina Mall tel: 02 681 8828

a family of Greek silversmiths,

captivate the attention of

motifs in diamonds and white gold.

Abu Dhabi Mall tel: 02 644 4363

Bvlgari today has become an

celebrities, royals and the

The seduction and glow of its

international success story with

international jet set.

rigorous yet creative forms reveal

over 200 stores worldwide.

a sophisticated spirit, at once

Inspired by the same passion for

assertive and romantic, evocative of passion and silent pride.

BVLGARI Marina Mall tel: (971 2) 681 8828 16447_2

094

ABU DHABI

JEWELLERY

16447_3_BvlgariJewellery.qxd

Abu Dhabi Mall tel: (971 2) 644 4363

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25/6/04

12:38 PM

Page 095

Magic Reflections necklace

the earth in winter.

Piaget draws inspiration for its

The ocean is capricious, offering

Magic Reflections collection from

pearls of several different sizes.

the very heart of nature. This year,

Piaget has chosen exclusively the

it was snow that captured the

most beautiful and the most regular

jeweller's attention, giving rise to

for this creation, preparing it to

dazzling new creations. For this

gently encircle a woman's neck in

necklace, snow is magically

all its crystalline beauty.

095

ABU DHABI

JEWELLERY

16522_3_PiagetADV.qxd

reinterpreted by combining precious stones with the finest grey

MAGIC REFLECTIONS

and white South Sea pearls.

COLLECTION

Exquisitely feminine and delicate, it

■ Necklace with snowflake motif

recreates the movement of

in 18-carat white gold

reinvented snowflakes. Skilfully

■ Set with 243 brilliant-cut

crafted and entirely articulated,

diamonds (approx. 4.68 carats)

these stylised flakes in six different

and with 29 South Sea pearls of

motifs form the ethereal structure

different sizes

of the necklace. The slender

■ White pearls of 9-10mm to

links set with 243 brilliant-cut

13-14mm

diamonds (4.76 carats) provide

■ Grey pearls of 9-10mm and

a graceful evocation of the

10-11mm

sparkling white mantle that covers

■ Clasp set with half a grey pearl

PIAGET

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16522_2

Al Manara Jewellery Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 626 2629 www.piaget.com

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29/6/04

9:57 AM

Page 097

ABU DHABI

JEWELLERY

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Tadmor, focused on meeting client's demand with quality, integrity and ethics. Since 1990,Tadmor expanded into

097

three showrooms in Abu Dhabi at Hilton Hotel, Liwa Centre, and Abu Dhabi Mall. Tadmor jewellery and watches collection ranges from the elegant classical to the attractive sophisticated. Skilled craftsmen at the Tadmor workshop execute designs to meet clients' styles using best quality gemstones and metals.

TADMOR JEWELLERS Hilton Hotel tel: (971 2) 681 2900 Liwa Centre (971 2) 633 0881 16686_2

Abu Dhabi Mall (971 2) 644 1224 PO Box 27220, Abu Dhabi UAE

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Page 098

LUXURY HOTEL GUIDE THE FOLLOWING IS AN INDEX OF SOME OF THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AND ABU DHABI’S FINEST INTERNATIONAL HOTELS.

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Valet Parking Available.

New Phone Number!

P.O. Box: 323430, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. – Zayed the Second Street (Electra) – Tel: 02 6156666 – Fax: 02 6335766 – E-mail: sandshot@emirates.net.ae

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Abu Dhabi

100

ABU DHABI

LUXURY HOTEL GUIDE

C O U N T RY AC C E S S C O D E 971 2

Abu Dhabi Hilton tel: (971 2) 681 1900 fax: (971 2) 681 1696

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 644 6666 fax: (971 2) 644 0348

Al Ain Rotana Hotel tel: (971 3) 754 5111 fax: (971 3) 754 5444

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 674 2020 fax: (971 2) 674 2552

Centre Hotel Novotel tel: (971 2) 633 3555 fax: (971 2) 634 3633

Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 626 2700 fax: (971 2) 626 0333

Crowne Plaza Hotel Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 621 0000 fax: (971 2) 621 7444

Sands Hotel tel: (971 2) 615 6666 fax: (971 2) 633 5766

Emirates Palace Hotel Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 690 8888

Sheraton Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 677 3333 fax: (971 2) 672 5149

Hotel Inter-Continental Abu Dhabi tel: (971 2) 666 6888 fax: (971 2) 666 9153

Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers tel: (971 2) 644 3000 fax: (971 2) 644 2111

www.welcome-to.com

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Page 101

Dubai

Burj Al Arab tel: (971 4) 301 7777 fax: (971 4) 301 7000

Movenpick Hotel Bur Dubai PO Box 32733 tel: (971 4) 336 6000 fax: (971 4) 336 6626

Dubai Inter-Continental PO Box 476 tel: (971 4) 222 7171 fax: (971 4) 228 4777

Hyatt Regency Dubai tel: (971 4) 209 1234 fax: (971 4) 209 1235

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa tel: (971 4) 346 1111 fax: (971 4) 346 0234

Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai tel: (971 4) 332 4444 fax: (971 4) 331 12 20

Dusit Dubai PO Box 23335 tel: (971 4) 343 3333 fax: (971 4) 343 3042

Jumeirah Beach Club tel: (971 4) 344 5333 fax: (971 4) 344 6222

Emirates Towers tel: (971 4) 330 0000 fax: (971 4) 330 3030

Jumeirah Beach Hotel PO Box 11416 tel: (971 4) 348 0000 fax: (971 4) 348 2273

Fairmont Hotel tel: (971 4) 332 5555 fax: (971 4) 332 4555

Jumeirah Rotana Hotel tel: (971 4) 345 5888 fax: (971 4) 345 8777

Grand Hyatt Dubai tel: (971 4) 317 1234 fax: (971 4) 317 1235

JW Marriott Hotel Abu Baker Al Siddique Road tel: (971 4) 262 4444 fax: (971 4) 262 6264

ABU DHABI

Ascot Hotel Bur Dubai tel: (971 4) 352 0900 fax: (971 4) 352 1035

101

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Dubai PO Box 30880 tel: (971 4) 282 0000 fax: (971 4) 282 8100

LUXURY HOTEL GUIDE

C O U N T RY AC C E S S C O D E 971 4


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ABU DHABI

LUXURY HOTEL GUIDE

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Hilton Dubai Jumeirah tel: (971 4) 399 1111 fax: (971 4) 399 1112

Le Meridien Dubai tel: (971 4) 282 4040 fax: (971 4) 282 5540

Hilton Dubai Creek tel: (971 4) 227 1111 fax: (971 4) 227 1131

Le Royal Meridien Jumeirah Beach Resort & Spa PO Box 24970 tel: (971 4) 399 5555 fax: (971 4) 399 5999

Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Resort & Marina tel: (971 4) 399 3333 fax: (971 4) 399 3000

Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai tel: (971 4) 332 00 00 fax: (971 4) 332 00 01

Madinat Jumeirah, The Arabian Resort Dubai PO Box 75157, Dubai UAE tel: (971 4) 366 8888 fax: (971 4 366 7788

Ramada Hotel tel: (971 4) 351 9999 fax: (971 4) 352 1033

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road PO Box 75880, Dubai, UAE tel: (971 4) 343 8888 fax: (971 4) 343 8886

Renaissance Dubai Hotel tel: (971 4) 262 5555 fax: (971 4) 269 7358

Sheraton Deira Hotel & Towers PO Box 5772 tel: (971 4) 268 8888 fax: (971 4) 268 8876

Taj Palace Hotel PO Box 42211 tel: (971 4) 223 2222 fax: (971 4) 227 8222

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers PO Box 4250 tel: (971 4) 228 1111 fax: (971 4) 221 3468

Ritz Carlton PO Box 26525 tel: (971 4) 399 4000 fax: (971 4) 399 4001

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers PO Box 53567 tel: (971 4) 399 5533 fax: (971 4) 399 5577

Towers Rotana Hotel tel: (971 4) 343 8000 fax: (971 4) 343 5111

Millennium Airport Hotel Garhoud PO Box 13018 tel: (971 4) 282 3464 fax: (971 4) 282 3781

One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai PO Box 37252 tel: (971 4) 399 9999 fax: (971 4) 399 9998

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9:29 AM

Page 1

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16705_1

Promote your business through our extensive Five Star Hotel Network Increase your sales by advertising in a Welcome To publication For all advertising enquiries for the Middle East publications, please contact Intercommunications Advertising tel: + 971 4 228 1977, fax: + 971 4 223 1732 PO Box 55894, Dubai email: adil1@emirates.net.ae. www.welcome-to.com


25/6/04

3:28 PM

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16017_WT_AD_Backcover.qxd 1/7/04 4:16 PM

bleed only, spine on p001_16017_WT_AD_cover.pdf

Cartier Boutiques: • UAE Dubai: Emirates Towers Boulevard – 04 330 0034, BurJuman – 04 355 3533, Abu Dhabi: Hamdan Street – 02 627 0000

rks

Page 1

Les Délices de Goa

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