Yalla Know It All - Spring 2019 by Yalla Abu Dhabi

80,000 Annual Circulation

WHERE & HOW TO CONNECT WITH NATURE #INABUDHABI

EXPLORE YOUR CITY! BE A TOURIST IN YOUR OWN TOWN

FLY HIGH WITH LA PERLE. WIN TICKETS FOR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY! 2019

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Know It All Family Guide

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE YALLAABUDHABI.AE FOR THE BEST FAMILY EVENTS IN ABU DHABI!

‫ر بيع‬

‫الدليل الكامل لألسرة يف أبوظبي‬

HealthPlus Network of Specialty Centers owns and operates two family clinics in Al Bandar and Al Forsan in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. At HealthPlus Family Clinics, we are committed to providing dedicated and comprehensive care to our patients through every life stage. From newborn checkups and routine medical care to treatment of fevers, falls, and common ailments, our family physicians will take care of all your day-to-day health concerns with a focus on prevention as the best foundation to keep your family healthy and active. Services include: + Family Medicine + Pediatrics + Obstetrics & Gynecology

+ Adult & Pediatric Dentistry + Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Immunization + Men and Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellness Health Checks

Al Bandar, Al Raha Beach

02 557 1818

Al Forsan Village, Khalifa City

02 681 8877

www.hplus.ae

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EDITOR IN CHIEF & MANAGING DIRECTOR Jane Barraclough jane@yallauae.ae

GROUP EDITOR

Elizabeth Totton liz@yallauae.ae

Aila Lopez aila@yallauae.ae

For further information, contact yalla@yallauae.ae

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Hi Everyone,

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

WELCOME TO YALLA

ART DIRECTOR

Spring is here. Easter holidays are a thing of the past, and Ramadan is afoot. Though the year speeds past us, the Holy Month presents a cherished opportunity to slow down and appreciate our many blessings even if you’re not among the faithful.

CONTRIBUTORS

So, let’s take a look at what’s in this issue. As compilers of family activities and initiatives, we felt it was incumbent upon us to give our young readers more opportunities to contribute to the magazine, so be on the lookout for editorial contributions and charming illustrations from talented local kids and teenagers. Please turn your attention to our very first illustrative cover designed by an Abu Dhabi student. We are always hungry for more, so if you are among Abu Dhabi’s talented young artists, writers, or videographers, we want to meet you.

Monica Nucera Modesign FZE

Photography by Tommaso Ciancio Illustrated Map by Katharine Cameron-Clark Cover illustration by Lucie Totton @yallaabudhabi

FIND OUT MORE ONLINE www.yallaabudhabi.ae

All content and images may not be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without prior consent. Please note that Yalla accepts no liability for errors, omissions or damage resulting from the use of this guide or any of the advertisements in it. Readers must make their own enquiries to establish each entry. Information is correct at the time of going to press.

Ever thought of being a Tourist In Your Own Town? If so, we suggest great outings for people who want to get outside and discover all the great things to do while the weather is still fine. We also give readers a tour of the city’s newest landmark: Qasr Al Watan, then go into some depth about Ramadan offering tips on what to expect during the Holy Month. We then recognise some local heroes in the field of sustainability, and we’d like to introduce our readers to a very exciting new initiative called ‘Connect With Nature’ that has the potential to become your next favourite thing in the capital. But first, let’s dive right into the topic of exploring our city with fresh eyes, then it’s all the usuals: YallaKids, YallaTeen, Education, Sport, Parties, YallaEats, Healthcare, and much more. Happy reading and hunting for your next great Abu Dhabi adventure. Until next term…

The Yalla Team

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AUTUMN SPRING 2018 2019

FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE

Education

CONTENTS 3 LA PERLE COMPETITION 4-5 TOURIST IN YOUR OWN TOWN 6-7 QASR AL WATAN

Things to do

8-9 CONNECT WITH NATURE 10-13 ART & CULTURE The Art of Diversity | Workshops In Mas

14-15 YALLA KIDS 16-17 YALLA TEENS 18-19 EDGY INSTRUCTION

A Palace to view

20-35 EDUCATION Nurseries, Schools, Universities, Specialist Education, Language Tuition, Tutors, Computer & IT Courses, Play Groups & Toddler Clubs. Gabittas Education Feature | The Duke of Edinburgh Award

36-53 YALLA EATS A Ramadan Primer | The Best Family Iftars The Rise of Coffee Culture | Sicily à la Heart | For The Love of Pizza

54-55 YALLA PARTIES

On the menu #inAbuDhabi 2

AUTUMN 2018

56-59 YALLA SPORTS Ramadan Fitness

60-63 HEALTHCARE Dental Clinics, Eye Clinics, First Aid Training, Health Clinics, Healthcare at Home, Hospitals with Accident & Emergency, Infant Massage, Maternity Hospitals, Maternity Pre and Post Natal Classes, Midwifery, Opticians, Physiotherapists, Private Hospitals, Public Hospitals, Specialist Healthcare. Healthplus Feature on Vitamin D deficiency

64 COMMUNITY Meet Nick Dyer-Cochrane and learn about the BBG

www.yallaabudhabi.ae yallaabudhabi.ae

Make Your Birthday Boy or Girl MVP for a Day at Zayed Sports City

YALLA COMPETITION

DUBAI’S LATEST SPECTACLE

Keen on a water-based show that combines gravity-defying acrobatics with spectacular water and special effects that tell a fantastical story? La Perle is an unmissable Dubai excursion

a Perle by Dragone is the region’s first permanent show, featuring 65 world class artists. Created by worldrenowned Artistic Director Franco Dragone, La Perle combines the spirit of Dubai with an iconic aqua-stage to deliver an enchanting spectacle in, on, and above water. La Perle features a breathtaking fusion of immersive artistic performances, imagery and technology. La Perle is influenced by Dubai’s rich culture, vibrant present, and aspirational future, which is brought to life

by awe-inspiring stunts and special effects that will leave viewers speechless. Feel embedded with the artists as the 270-degree seating provides a different perspective of the action unfolding in the tailor-made aqua theatre. Witness the stage flooding with water and draining in a matter of seconds as the artists perform mind-blowing aqua and aerial feats, such as diving from 25 metres high. Learn more at Laperle.com

WIN ONE OF FIVE FAMILY TICKETS TO DUBAI’S MOST SPECTACULAR SHOW!

Answer the following questions online for your chance to win tickets for four at La Perle Dubai.

TRUE OR FALSE?

1. La Perle is the region’s first resident show, based in Al Habtoor City. 2. The theatre boasts a 270-degree seating configuration offering a mesmerizing experience from various angles. 3. La Perle has 65 artists that come from 23 different countries.

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Competition is only open to Abu Dhabi residents. Only one entry per person. Five winners will be chosen to win four tickets each. The competition will end on 15 June 2019. Winners will be announced on Facebook on the last week of June 2019. Yalla Abu Dhabi reserves the right to choose the winners. Visit yallaabudhabi.ae for competition clues, details, and full T&Cs.

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EXPLORE ABU DHABI

TOURIST IN YOUR OWN TOWN

It can be fun for a family to play tourist even when they don’t have visitors. Get out and explore your adopted city and see it with fresh eyes while the weather is still fine. Yalla offers 10 places to start!

LOUVRE ABU DHABI SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE

The Louvre Abu Dhabi opened in 2017 and rightly stakes its claim on the international art scene. With its beautiful and lauded dome, the structure of the Louvre Abu Dhabi itself is a work of art. Yalla suggests you take a guided tour of both the dome and the museum’s permanent collection to truly understand what makes it the world’s very first universal museum. Louvreabudhabi.ae

THE SOUK AT THE MALL AT THE WORLD TRADE CENTER ABU DHABI

If you are desperately seeking camel souvenirs or spice sets to bring home, one of the best places to shop for souvenirs is The Souk at the Mall at the World Trade Center Abu Dhabi. With its decorative wooden walls and intricate ceiling work, this spot has countless traditional shops selling everything from kaftans to spices. Haggle your heart out here. Wtcad.ae

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EMIRATES PALACE

As quite possibly one of the world’s most beloved palaces, Emirates Palace is a must-visit for anyone who finds themselves in Abu Dhabi. Visitors can enter the hotel by making a reservation at one of its restaurants, where they can enjoy fine dining or sample a golden cappuccino with 24K gold flakes. Emiratespalace.ae

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There is a reason that this spot is TripAdvisor’s number one most visited tourist destination in Abu Dhabi. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is free and open to the public and offers a primer on Islam, as well as a window into an architectural wonder. Every inch of the structure is breathtaking. The mosque’s walls and floors are made of pure white marble and decorated with colourful stones, as are the floors. The mosque also houses the world's largest hand-knotted carpet as well as some magnificent Swarovski crystal chandeliers. Don’t save the mosque for just when guests are in town. Make it a regular stop to feel in touch with your city. Szgm.ae

EXPLORE ABU DHABI

HERITAGE VILLAGE

If you are keen to better understand Emirati culture, take a walk back in UAE time at Heritage Village. With its open museum displaying everything from a goat's hair tent to a campfire with pots, visitors can immerse themselves in everything UAE. The Heritage Village also holds workshops demonstrating traditional skills like glass blowing, pottery, and spinning. Near Marina Mall at the Breakwater, 02 681 4455

OBSERVATION DECK AT 300

ABU DHABI FALCON HOSPITAL

No one wants to visit a hospital, but the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is also not your ordinary hospital. Number two on TripAdvisor, this hidden gem is worth a visit. Visitors can tour the hospital to better understand the link between falcons and Emirati culture. Don’t leave without seeing the bird’s glorious wingspan or watching one get a manicure. Falconhospital.com

Etihad Towers are perhaps best known for having a cameo in Fast and Furious 7. Though guests may never race a sports car in between the towers, they can go to the 74th floor in one of them, to the Observation Deck at 300. Take in the best possible view of the capital, whilst enjoying a high tea with delicious snacks and refreshments to complement the views. Jumeirah.com

YAS PARKS

YAS MARINA CIRCUIT

Love racing? The Yas Marina Circuit is a dream spot for any family who feels the need for speed. Here, visitors can get a glimpse of cars racing and even rent a car themselves to drive on the circuit. For those who are not that into cars, they can also engage in wellness activities, such as running and cycling. Yasmarinacircuit.com

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This island is a must stop for adrenaline junkies. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s fastest and highestlooping rollercoasters. Yas Waterworld is the answer to summer's soaring temperatures, but it's also considered a special place where families can cool off all year round. The newest park Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi brings comic book fantasies to life. Yasisland.ae

QASR AL WATAN: THE PRESIDENTIAL PALACE

Did you know that the Presidential Palace recently opened up to the public for tours? Be one of the first to get a glimpse inside the exquisitely crafted tribute to the region’s Arabian heritage. Learn about the formation of the UAE and have access to halls typically reserved for official summits then browse a vast collection of artefacts and rare manuscripts that highlight the Arab world’s contributions to various intellectual fields including science, arts, humanities and literature. In the evening, visitors will enjoy a light and sound show projected onto the façade of the iconic building. qasralwatan.ae

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QASR AL WATAN

LIGHT IT UP

In the evening, visitors will enjoy a magnificent light and sound projected onto the faĂ§ade of the iconic building. A story told in three acts, the show draws a link between the aspirations of Qasr Al Watan and the vision of the nation, reflecting on the UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey of the past, present and future. The Palace in Motion show starts at 7.30 PM and runs for 15 minutes daily.

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PEEK INTO THE PALACE

QASR AL WATAN

Not sure if you’ve heard, but the Presidential Palace, aka Qasr Al Watan, next to Emirates Palace has finally opened to the public, and it’s worth a visit. Previously cloistered away behind tall gates where the Corniche meets the sea, the Presidential Palace has long been a curiosity to residents and visitors. It's a mystery no more! Explore the newest landmark to grace the azure shores of Abu Dhabi: Qasr Al Watan. Beyond the illustrious domes and towering gates, visitors will find a palace that brims with knowledge. Within the glistening marble walls, guests will be treated to an extensive collection of antiquities in addition to the glamorous interior. The palace’s multi-story library is worth a visit alone as it’s packed with firstof-its-kind insight into the Arab culture and heritage. Qasr Al Watan is more than just a palace, it is an enriching journey into contemporary UAE life in a modern setting that reveals and reflects on governance, knowledge, and craftsmanship of the nation. The palace offers visitors the unique opportunity to marvel at its majestic hallways and domes as well as explore exhibitions that celebrate the region’s rich Arabic heritage and learn more about the rulers and governing institutions that shaped this great nation. Most importantly, a visit will help guests gain a deeper appreciation of the innovations that will drive the country’s future and scratch beyond the nation’s glitzy surface to see the real heart of Abu Dhabi. Don’t miss the book shop! It’s full of one-of-a-kind souvenirs and stunning homewares. For more information or to book a tour, visit Qasralwatan.ae

QASR AL WATAN IN NUMBERS Qasr Al Watan is part of the 380,000-square-metre Presidential Palace compound The Palace took 150 million-man hours to build 5,000 geometric and floral patterns were used throughout the Palace The doors of the Palace are made of solid maple, and each door took 350 hours to make. 149,000 unique pieces of silver, crystal and china were made for the Palace “Al Barza” is the largest room in the Palace and can hold up to 300 guests. It’s a majlis whose name denotes a sheikh’s presence The Library is vast and includes around 50,000 books and a total of 483,937 titles

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on’t forget to look up. There are D countless stunning domes around the Palace.

CONNECT WITH NATURE

Life can be a blur of passing lights, blaring sounds, and people's voices. Abu Dhabi now has an initiative dedicated to communing with nature and sharing the experience with others. If you are keen to explore the natural world around you as a family, Connect with Nature is the gateway to discovering the great outdoors in the UAE. The Emirates Nature– WWF has partnered with the Environment Agency–Abu Dhabi (EAD) to offer an inspiring interactive journey throughout the city. They hope to build a new community of people who, like the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, see conservation as part of the nation’s history, heritage, and ultimately its way of life. The dual agencies have created a programme to encourage a new generation of people to discover the natural wonders of the UAE while building the leadership

“We are confident in our youth’s ability to challenge, excel, and succeed.” — The Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan

skills necessary to uphold the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed through a variety of fun outings, such as kayaking in the Mangroves, learning survival skills in the desert, or busting out your best downward dog in Umm Al Emarat. “Connect with Nature will bring our future generations closer to the land they will one day inherit, through a personal journey of exploration and discovery,” commented Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Acting Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. “Together with our partners, we have developed a programme that resonates with the young audience that we are targeting through an innovative and interactive

approach. It will also help to foster a lasting culture of respect for nature and commitment to sustainability among local youth - values that they should functionally integrate into their everyday lives.” Start exploring the UAE in creative new ways through one-of-a-kind experiences, thrilling adventures in nature, and awe-inspiring heritage activities. To learn more, visit connectwithnature.ae or follow Connect with Nature on social media @connectwithnature.ae

Once live, the app will allow users to learn about the programme, create personal profiles, manage progress, learn about events and news, progress onto levels, earn rewards, and access the knowledge hub, an online resource library where members can browse through audio clippings, images, eBooks, blogs videos, articles, reports, and infographics from top environmental agencies. Teachers can also access resources such as quizzes, teaching tools, and learning guides to complement their lesson planning.

ÂŠ WWF

GET THE APP!

YALLA ART

THE ART OF DIVERSITY

NYUAD's Arts Center is on a mission to boost ties between the campus and community by staging talent that adequately reflects the capital’s diverse population.

uch like the very island that New York University Abu Dhabi sits upon, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi strives to be a beacon on the international arts landscape.

Participation in the arts is the life’s work of Bill Bragin, the executive artistic director of the Arts Center. Bragin’s mission is to strengthen community ties on NYUAD’s new Saadiyat campus and with the city and the wider region, through a varied multidisciplinary arts programme, in which everyone can see themselves represented.

cultural background but resonate more broadly. In a place where more than 85 percent of the population has come from somewhere else — and, even for Emiratis, the country changes so rapidly — the question of what makes a place feel like home is a resonant idea. And a big question in the UAE is how to preserve a sense of heritage in a rapidly changing world.” The Arts Center is in its fourth season and, so far, it appears to be fulfilling its mission. Abu Dhabi residents understand that Saadiyat is the home to arts and the best place in town to find an eclectic show — perchance even a music scene. To learn more about future events at The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi or to become a member, visit Nyuad-artscenter.org

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“It’s important that many different communities see themselves on our stages,” he says. “I look for works that might come from a specific

©Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi / Photo by Hufton+Crow. Architect: Jean Nouvel.

DESTINATION: LOUVRE ABU DHABI LONG GAZES WELCOME From the first look, you’ll realise Louvre Abu Dhabi isn’t like any other museum. A micro-city on the sea, it links the past to the future, and gathers the world under a canopy of light. Encounter art here, and come face to face with all that it means to be human. Come with questions. Leave with more.

BOOK A DAY AWAY

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ART & CULTURE

FLASHING NIGHTS

Who says arcades are just for kids? Not Manarat Al Saadiyat. This Ramadan, drop by the contemporary cultural centre to spend your evenings with entertainment, conversations, and chilled out fun.

Ramadan is known for its long and wearying days, but nights are another story altogether. Once the fast is broken, fun can be had about the city. Whether you prefer a sedate suhoor in the company of friends and family or an evening full of flash, the city comes to life at night during the Holy Month. Back by popular demand is Manarat Al Saadiyat’s Ramadan Arcade. Your night can come alive in the comfort of other creatives. Manarat Al Saadiyat’s arcade evenings are suitable only for those who are 18+, and all adults able to stay up late in the name of art. Please check Manaratalsaadiyat.ae for more information. Ramadan Arcade evenings are from 9PM to 2AM from 9-12 and 15-18 May.

The Art Studio team has created a week long line up of crafts to keep you busy into the wee hours of the morning. Visitors can make the following projects though they are subject to change:

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Embroidered kaftan keychains Tile Painting: painting with coloured glazes on to ceramic tiles Islamic Geometric Patterns: prints, paintings, or coloured relief clay panels Clay Fanars: made from earthenware clay to be fired and collected at a later date. Infinity Mirrors Polymer Clay Ramadan Emblem keychains, brooches, and hairclips

• • • • • •

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JOIN US EVERY DAY IN THE ART OF CREATING! Weekdays: 9am - 8pm Fridays and Saturdays: 10am - 8pm

Art Studio offers Bespoke Corporate Events for business retreats, Toddler & Me activities for toddlers and parents, after school Art Club for teens, Art Camps during school holidays, and Birthday Parties. Workshops and art activities are also available for Schools and Universities. Prior booking is required. Every day, during Ramadan 2019, Art Studio offers adults Ramadan-themed art activities from 9pm - 2am.

Art Studio at Manarat Al Saadiyat is a multidisciplinary arts space designed to bring our community a hands-on arts education programme that includes art classes, drop-in sessions, and outreach initiatives for adults, children, families and students. Art Studio offers fully equipped studios with dedicated spaces for all ages to work both collaboratively and individually, making Art Studio the perfect place for creating art.

To make a booking and to learn more about our programme visit www.manaratalsaadiyat.ae manaratalsaadiyat

A SAILOR'S LIFE

YALLA KIDS

Yalla celebrates spring by diving into the world of local waterman (and NYUAD professor) John Burt and then we suggest some swimmingly good reads about the sea.

r. John Burt is a marine biologist and NYUAD professor who studies everything from coral reefs to sharks. Find out his favourite fish, what he was like as a kid, and how you can help to save the coral reefs!

WHEN HE WAS A CHILD:

I spent 17 years at sea on a 28 foot sail boat with my family of four, so you could say I was born to be on the water.

JOB:

I am an associate professor of Biology and marine biologist at NYUAD.

WHAT HE DOES:

We try to understand how marine organisms are coping with climate change and how we can protect them in the future.

GREW UP IN:

Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada.

FAVOURITE PASTIME AS A KID: Jumping off a boat into the water.

HERO:

David Attenborough. He is a passionate awareness enabler and examines all systems that are under pressure from humanity.

TYPICAL DAY:

Meeting with my team. Collectively, we experiment with coral DNA sequences among many other things.

FOR FUN:

Cycling and paddle-boarding

FAVOURITE PLACE TO EXPLORE: Nowhere in particular. I enjoy getting out of the cities and into the wild, preferably somewhere green.

Study hard and always do the right thing. Everything comes down to the individual and even your smallest decisions can lead to great change for both humanity and the environment as a whole.

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ÂŠ NYU Abu Dhabi

BEST ADVICE:

YALLA KIDS

TRAVEL GEAR:

My diving gear, a clipboard, and my super expensive underwater camera.

HOW KIDS CAN HELP SAVE THE OCEANS:

SWIMMINGLY GOOD READS Mr. Seahorse by Eric Carle

No one is too young to make positive changes for the ocean's survival. The simplest change you can make is right on your plate. Make sure the seafood you eat is sustainable. Check Choosewisely.ae to learn about fish that are not over-harvested or exploited.

JOHN'S FAVOURITE SEA CREATURE:

The Luther shrimp goby, as it’s known in the Gulf, is an amazing creature. The symbiotic relationship between the shrimp and the Goby fish is fascinating. The shrimp in this family are great diggers; however, they have poor eye-sight and cannot spot their predators until it’s too late. The Goby fish, on the other hand, are small vigilant fish that act as the shrimp’s watchman against predators, in exchange for shelter in the shrimp’s burrow.

Sharks and Other Sea Creatures by DK

A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle

A Small Blue Whale by Beth Ferry and Lisa Mondorff

Secret Seahorse by Stella Blackstone

Way down deep in the deep blue sea by Jan Peck

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I’m the Biggest Thing in the Ocean by Kevin Sherry

YALLA TEENS

THE SKIN YOU ARE IN 16

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YALLA TEENS

TEEN SPA REVIEW: ANANTARA SPA

Stress is a major concern for many teens and not good for skin, so YallaTeen sent in two willing teenage girls to review holistic skincare at Anantara Spa at Eastern Mangroves.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

The service from taxi to spa was top notch, but what waited for us within Anantara Spa was delightfully unexpected. Giddy with anticipation for the indulgence that awaited us, we were escorted to the waiting room, given hot towels, and ginger lemongrass tea. The team suggested facials. Aside from being practical — let’s face it, we haven’t been taking the best care of ourselves over the last few months pulling all-nighters and such—we could use the quiet time and selfcare. We are friends and have a lot in common, but we have very different skin. The therapist tested our skin’s moisture levels at the start to determine our treatment. My friend’s skin was a combination of dry and oily, while my skin was oilier and in need of a bit more pampering. We were both apprised of the more sensitive parts of our skin, which was very helpful in planning a future daily skincare routine. We were most surprised to learn that one treatment to nourish and hydrate oily skin is none other than oil! It was so counterintuitive, and we were aghast at the prospect of putting oil on our faces for fear of breakouts, but the knowledgeable therapist assured us that this practice would soothe aggravated skin, and we were pleased with the lightness of the product. Our therapists were mindful to warn us about the dangers of the Abu Dhabi sun, and they both applied a light layer of SPF 30 to our faces, apparently you are never too young to worry about wrinkles and skin cancer, and—though we feel too young—we’ll heed her advice. Throughout the entirety of the experience, our therapists spoke to us about skin care and its importance, recommending products that sounded lovely but were way out of a 17-year-old’s price range. We wish that they might have recommended a few that we could purchase in Boots, but these exquisite

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products are definitely aspirational for us.

THE FINAL CURTAIN

When our facial was finished, we were led into the “Relaxing Room” to wind down. We had a few moments post-facial to enjoy the peaceful aura of the room. We were directed to a comfy chair and given cosy blankets along with peppermint tea and small pots of tasty Turkish delights, almonds, and dates. We enjoyed the post-treatment time in this room.

OVERALL THOUGHTS

Our experience at the Anantara Spa was not only relaxing, but also educational. The treatment taught us better ways to care for the individual needs of our skin and the importance of taking care of our skin. Before this treatment, our skin routine consisted of a daily wash and maybe an at-home facial every once in a while—we never considered that we should be caring for it consistently with only natural products. We truly enjoyed ourselves and would surely come back again to learn more and relax more before or after the next round of exams.

Words by grade 12 students at American Community School Abu Dhabi. To book a treatment at Anantara Spa, phone 02 895 8700.

SUMMER SKINCARE TIPS FOR TEENS

Know Your Skin. Before you start any kind of skin care routine, it’s essential to understand your skin type, whether it is dry, oily, normal or combination skin to better identify the right kind of skin care products that you need.

Clean your face twice a day with a face wash designed for your skin type. Never rub your face dry with a towel. Gently pat it dry. Exfoliate your skin with a gentle scrub only one time per week.

oisturise your skin with a good M moisturising cream. Summer weather can dehydrate skin. Choose a gel-based and non-greasy moisturiser that stays on a long time.

Always wear sunscreen. Abu Dhabi’s summer heat can be extreme, so always wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and wearing a hat also never hurts.

Never, ever pop a pimple. Breaking your skin introduces bacteria causing further breakouts.

6 7

Drink lots of water. Keeping your skin hydrated will help your skin naturally glow. Water also helps to clean impurities out of your system.

8 9

at a balanced diet every day E filled with fruits and vegetables.

Avoid wearing heavy makeup in the summer.

et adequate amounts of sleep. G The teenage years can take a toll on your sleep patterns with late night cramming and stress. Getting a minimum of 8 hours of sleep daily does a body and your skin a world of good.

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here’s no better way to mentally and physically unwind from the burdens of school like a visit to a spa with a friend. My friends and I are seniors in high school, and, between exams, applying to university, and that looming stress of being “adults” soon, we were also good candidates for some relaxation, so we were thrilled at the prospect of a spa day.

EDGY INSTRUCTION

EDUCATION

Yalla gets in depth about the importance of character education and global learning in the 21st century education with naked diplomat Tom Fletcher. recognising how different their lives will be. Content and assessment persistently focus on classic academic knowledge rather than character and skills. And the league tables that compare education quality continue to focus on conventional exam results. On the current trajectory a generation on the move will therefore not be equipped with the skills they need. Polarisation, extremism, inequality, drift, intolerance and distrust will increase.

Why is a global education important?

75 million are still out of school, which is terrifying. And with automation replacing so many jobs, we need to ensure that the robots work for the next generation, and not the other way around. With globalisation accelerating, the people who will thrive will be those who can understand and adapt to different cultures.

What is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;global citizen?â&#x20AC;?

ormer UK ambassador and current author and visiting NYUAD professor Tom Fletcher CMG campaigns for better diplomacy, global education, the UK's creative industries, and the power of social media to create positive change. Yalla caught up with Tom to discuss the value of a global education and its implications.

What led you into the foreign service?

Looking back, I realize that travel was in my DNA, and a sense that public service was important. But I remember being very pessimistic about my chances of getting in to the UK Foreign Office. I had a lot of preconceptions about the kind of person they were looking for, which thankfully proved to be wrong. Even when it was tough, I never regretted a single day.

What are the most important skills to have to be a diplomat in the 21st century? They are the same as in previous centuries. Be kind, curious and brave. Empathy and

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emotional intelligence remain vital, and an ability to put yourself in the shoes of others.

I heard one comment that a global citizen is a 'citizen of nowhere'. I disagree. It is someone who is open to other cultures. You can be a global citizen but still be strongly rooted in your own community. You can feel that your town or country is brilliant. Just not uniquely brilliant. The citizen part is as important as the global part.

Tell us about your book The Naked Diplomat: Power and Politics in the Digital Age.

I can reassure you that there is no actual nudity. I wanted to explain the history of diplomacy, and why it matters so much to people's lives. Without good diplomacy, more people die. So, I also wanted to set out how technology will change power and politics. One of my hopes was that more world leaders would join Twitter. I slightly regret that one now.

What do you feel is the biggest problem with global education and how can we fix it?

We are really fortunate with the schools in UAE. But I worry that most young people on the planet learn the wrong things in the wrong ways. Too often we fail to spark the delight and magic of learning. We force feed kids what we ourselves learnt; without

yallaabudhabi.ae

EDUCATION

How does a teacher build global citizens in the classroom?

We have been working with many pioneer educators who are doing just that. You can give young people a sense of other people's history, not just the wars your country won. You can give them the chance to really learn new languages, but also to develop an understanding of the culture behind those languages. Ultimately there is no substitute for meeting people, and truly connecting with them.

What should be the role of technology in today’s education?

It is important to have a range of digital skills. But the answer to the challenges of the 21st century is not simply to learn coding. Much more important is adaptability - our kids will have to move between jobs and learn crafts that don't yet exist. And creativity - ultimately that is one of the last attributes that can be automated. Our kids will have to be brave enough to master technology rather than be mastered by it. To be kind enough to reduce inequality rather than widen it. To be curious enough to invent new ways of living and organising themselves.

Easy access to information does not guarantee that students will think critically. What can help students? It is vital to encourage and nurture critical thinking. Our kids need to be able to challenge ideas, including - maybe especially - ours. They are deluged by information, much of it extraordinary. But they will need to work harder than us to avoid apathy and distraction. We are all trying to crack the screen time challenge, and there are no easy answers. But I was struck visiting Silicon Valley by how much

the people who understand the tech try to ensure that their kids put the gadgets down.

Do you feel it’s the role of the school to develop a pupil’s character?

I think it only works if both parents and schools are working together. Our kids’ development does not start or end at the school gates. Every parent wants the best for their kids. But we often become sidetracked by test results and exams. As new assessments of character emerge, I hope that parents will support them. And we should get behind schools that focus on developing character.

Over 75 million kids aren’t in formal education at all. How can this problem be fixed?

Much of the answer lies in money — governments and international institutions make many promises and then fail to deliver.

We are working to deliver new sources and new ways of funding. Much depends on diplomacy - conflict is of course a huge driver of poor or no education, and refugees always tell me that they want to get their kids back in school. And much depends on governments reforming education systems to put more emphasis on education of the head, hand and heart. Technology can help in all these cases and will give our kids access to more information than Steve Jobs, let alone Einstein. But we should also beware of thinking it is all about the next gadget. The role of teachers remains vital. The best ones will use tech as a tool, but we cannot replace teachers with tech.

On balance, yes. It depends on whether you are a pessimist or optimist about humans. I'm an optimist, despite seeing some of the worst of what we can do to each other. With social media, I think we're in a phase like the decades following the spread of the printing press. It takes a while for society to catch up. But for every troll on social media, there are hundreds of individuals quietly getting on with living together. The coexisters need to shout louder than the rest. There are many risks to being on social media. But the biggest risk is to leave it to the wall builders. Learn more about Tom at tomfletcher.global

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SPRING 2019

Do the benefits of social media outweigh its negatives?

‫اختيار‬

EDUCATION

EDUCATION ‫احلضانات ورياض األطفال‬ Nurseries & Pre-schools

*Suitable for Babies Aldar Academies Al Forsan Nursery Al Forsan 02 813 2300 aldaracademies.com Bedayati Nursery Al Najda Street Delma Street bedayatinursery.ae

02 444 4490 02 445 5543

*Blooming Buds Nursery Al Bateen 02 491 8068 bloomingbudsnursery.com *Bright Beginnings Nursery Al Mushrif 02 449 2840 Al Mehairba 02 445 5339 Saadiyat 02 628 4816 brightbeginnings.ae

IN THE SPOTLIGHT Why did I choose Falcon? UK Accredited trilingual nursery for 6 weeks-4 years Passionate, qualified, experienced team of English, French, Arabic/Islamic, gym, cookery and science teachers Yearly H&S audits Parent app and events Parent centered year-round affordable high-quality British education, with timings from 7am-6pm. Education excellence in Abu Dhabi sorted.

 200 Saif Ghobash Street  02 444-8814  www.falconbritishnursery.com  registrar@falconbritishnursery.com

*British Orchard Nursery Al Nahyan 02 443 9892 Al Bateen 056 194 3870 britishorchardnursery.com Busy Bees Nursery Muroor Road 02 621 9492 busybees-nursery.com *Children’s House Montessori Nursery Khalifa City 02 444 1150  chmnursery Early World Nursery Abu Dhabi 02 643 8867 earlyworldnursery.ae Falcon British Nursery

Near Zayed Sports City 02 444 8814

falconbritishnursery.com

Greenopia Nursery Al Rowdah 056 293 9344 greenopia-nursery.com Hummingbird Nursery Reem Island 02 671 7701 hummingbird.ae Humpty Dumpty Nursery Al Bateen 02 666 3277 Khalifa City 02 556 1068 humptynursery.org *Jigsaw Nursery & Crèche Mohammed Bin Zayed City 02 648 9749 Al Karamah 02 445 5222 jigsawnursery.ae Kidz Venture Mangrove Village kidzventure.ae

02 550 0255

*Kipina Kids Nursery Al Bateen 02 667 2445 Al Mushrif 02 658 9529 kipinakids.com Ladybird Nursery Al Bateen 02 667 3881 lady-bird-nursery.com Learning Spaces Nursery Khalifa City 02 556 6135 learningspacesnurseries.com Les FanFans Nursery Al Zafranah 02 639 0390 lesfanfans.com

SPRING 2019

Little Haven Nursery Al Karamah 02 447 9688 littlehavennursery.com Little Smarties Nursery Khalifa City 02 556 5500 littlesmartiesnursery.com MindChamps Nursery Bloom Gardens 02 610 9666 mindchamps.ae Mosaic Nursery Al Reem Island 02 677 8797 mosaicnursery.com Odyssey Nursery Khalifa City 056 484 5510 odysseynursery.com Redwood Nursery Khalifa City 02 556 4611 Saadiyat Island 056 156 6278 theredwoodnursery.com Second Home Nursery Mohammed Bin Zayed City 02 553 6565 secondhomenursery.com Sesame Street Private Nursery Al Nahyan 02 448 8424 sesamestreetprivatenursery.com

Smart Learning Nursery Al Reef 02 582 2277  Smart-Learning-Nursery *Starfish Lane Kids Khalifa City 056 463 5187 starfishlanekids.com Stepping Stones Nursery Al Bateen 02 681 5583 Khalifa City 02 556 5991 steppingstones-abudhabi.com Sunny Meadows Montessori Nursery Khalifa City 02 566 0806 sunny-meadows.com *Teddy Bear American Nursery Al Bateen 02 633 3350 MBZ City 02 555 3396 teddybearnursery.net *The Montessori Children's Garden Al Bateen Street 02 555 3316 themontessoricg.ae Treehouse Nursery Khalifa City 02 556 0556 treehousenursery.ae

yallaabudhabi.ae

EDUCATION

WHAT IS MINDFULNESS, REALLY?

When we talk about Mindfulness, what are we really talking about? The educators at Gabbitas have taken the buzz out of the buzz word to explain this important idea in plain English for parents. You may rightly notice that this is still slightly mysterious, and it points more to a way of living than an easy to grasp technique or idea. Consider for a moment your own day to day life: how often do you find yourself ‘waking up’, so to speak, during the day and realising that your mind had just taken you away from what you were doing? How often do you drive somewhere and notice that you were absent for half of the journey in a realm unknown? These are just little examples of the things which happen to human beings every single day. And they may seem innocuous and harmless. But these are just small examples. How about the tendency of the mind to ruminate endlessly over what could have been said, or what could have been done yesterday? Is this a useful or wholesome way to be spending our time? The human mind is an incredible tool. It separates us from the other creatures on this planet and has allowed us to create the wonderful civilisation which we now exist in. However, it can also cause problems with its ability to access with phenomenal speed the past, the future and the realms of imagination and possibility. The movement of the mind is so fast that we can find ourselves coming unstuck and living out of alignment with our values more frequently than we might imagine.

There is a lot of talk about Mindfulness all over the world at the moment. It has found its way into schools, corporations, sports and even politics. In the UK, MPs are currently being trained at the Oxford Centre for Mindfulness, which is a flourishing string to the illustrious university’s already well-decorated bow. But what is it all about, and what on Earth does it have to do with colouring? Dominic Watts, Consultant at Gabbitas Middle East and part of the Free Spirit Project explain what mindfulness really is. Misconceptions about Mindfulness abound. For most people, the word seems to conjure up images of a perfectly serene and permanently blissful human being - a far cry from the way in which society encourages us, and in some ways forces us, to live our lives. We might imagine somebody who is always totally calm, free from problems and never needing to think about anything, as the rest of us do.

Mindfulness asks us to make the most out of the incredible gifts of life, and to use the mind to serve us, rather than the other way around. Unfortunately, in a world as fast as ours, it takes a lot to slow down; but if we can, so much in life seems to change for the better. Practising formal meditation and informal Mindfulness exercises teaches us to slow down and give more of ourselves, more often, to the moments and the people who are around us, right now. If this still sounds mysterious, that’s good. Mindfulness, like all of the best things, doesn’t like to be put in a box!

To find out more, look for a mindfulness teacher or course near you and dive in to find out what it’s all about, and what it could mean to you. Check out the Free Spirit Project Podcast series, the ‘Meaning of Mindful’, at www.thefreespiritproject.earth/podcasts. If you are interested in one of our courses, e-mail Dominic at dom@thefreespiritproject.earth.

But these are all just that, misconceptions. One of the difficulties lies in the fact that Mindfulness is extremely difficult to define and to convey adequately in words and concepts. To truly understand Mindfulness means to get into its world; to experience and gain insight into what lies beyond the words.

However, one of people who was largely responsible for bringing about this modern wave of Mindfulness, Jon Kabat-Zinn, gave a definition a pretty good go which is often quoted, so I won’t hesitate to do so again here: ‘Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.’

SPRING 2019

yallaabudhabi.ae

EDUCATION *Windsor Early Years Nursery Khalifa City 02 557 9295 windsor-nursery.com *Yellow Submarine Nursery Al Muneera 02 673 1009 Al Zeina 02 553 1179 yellowsubmarine.ae ‫املدارس اإلبتدائية والثانوية‬ Primary & Secondary Schools Aldar Academies Al Bateen Academy Al Rowdah 02 813 2000 aldaracademies.com Aldar Academies Al Mamoura Academy Abu Dhabi City 02 885 7001 aldaracademies.com Aldar Academies Al Muna Academy Al Danah 02 501 4777 aldaracademies.com Aldar Academies Al Yasmina Academy Khalifa City 02 501 4888 aldaracademies.com Aldar Academies The Pearl Academy | Al Dhafrah pearlprimary.sch.ae 02 641 8887

Aldar Academies West Yas Academy Yas Island aldaracademies.com Al Rabeeh Academy Zone 23 Mohamed Bin Zayed City alrabeehac.ae 02 679 5991 Al Rabeeh School Muroor Road alrabeeh.sch.ae

02 448 2856

Al Yasat Private School Al Shamkha 02 641 2300 alyasat-school.com American Community School of Abu Dhabi Al Bateen 02 681 5115 acs.sch.ae American International School of Abu Dhabi Al Rayhan 02 444 4333 aisa.sch.ae Amity International School Al Bahya 02 503 9000 amityabudhabi.com Aspen Heights British School Al Bahya 056 538 4416 ahbs.ae

Brighton College Abu Dhabi Near Khalifa Park 02 815 6504 brightoncollege.ae

GEMS World Academy Al Dhafrah 02 641 6333 gemsworldacademy-abudhabi.com

British School Al Khubairat Al Mushrif 02 446 2280 britishschool.sch.ae

German International School Al Karamah 02 666 8668 gisad.ae

Canadian International School Khalifa City 02 556 4206 cisabudhabi.com Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Saadiyat Island 02 497 0000 cranleigh.ae

Global Indian International School Baniyas East 02 218 1585 globalindianschool.org Lycee Louis Massignon Al Rayhan 02 444 8085 llm.ae

GEMS American Academy Khalifa City 02 557 4880 gemsaa-abudhabi.com GEMS Cambridge International School Bawabat Al Sharq Bani Yas City 02 510 4343 gemscambridgeinternationalschoolabudhabi.com GEMS United Indian School Baniyas West 02 205 9777 gemsunitedindianschoolabudhabi.com GEMS Winchester School Al Dhafrah 02 403 5499 gemswinchesterschool-abudhabi.com

Raha International School Khalifa City 02 556 1567 ris.ae Reach British School Baniyas East 02 582 2030 reachbritishschool.com Repton School Abu Dhabi Al Reem Island Shams Area 02 507 4800 reptonabudhabi.org The British International School Abu Dhabi Mohammed Bin Zayed City bisabudhabi.com 02 510 0101

A LEADING GLOBAL NURSERY

Singapore – Australia – China – Philippines – Vietnam – UAE At MindChamps we focus on providing young children with the skills, ﬂexibility and mindset they need to succeed, both in school and in life. We aim to nurture every child to be the best that they can be. Our 3-Mind concept and our philosophy of 100% Respect, Zero Fear lead our children to have full conﬁdence in themselves, while considering the rights and opinions of others.

Admissions are open, contact us to book a personalized tour 02 610 9666

SPRING 2019

admissions@mindchamps.ae

MindChamps @Bloom Gardens (Next to Brighton College Abu Dhabi)

mindchamps.ae

yallaabudhabi.ae

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House Montessori provides inspiring education to children aged 45 days to 4 years old in a nurturing and encouraging setting. We endeavour to create a happy, friendly, safe and welcoming Montessori environment while inspiring young minds and setting the foundations for lifelong learning.

Registrations open for September 2019 Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi Tel: 02 444 1150 or 056 471 2900

info@thechildrenshousemontessori.com www.thechildrenshousemontessori.com

WORLD READY EDUCATION

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award has offered challenge and adventure to young people across the globe for 63 years. Tom Shorrock explains the award’s appeal.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is now 63 years old. Has the Award evolved?

When the Award first started, it was available to young men only. It was then opened up to young women, but the activities they were offered were very different to those offered to the boys. However, this soon changed, and the Award framework and activities offered were the same for both boys and girls worldwide. For over 60 years of operating, the structure, ambition and the goals of the Award have stayed the same. The reach and impact of the Award globally have continued to grow since its inception.

Are you an Award recipient?

I completed all three levels of the Award. I started my Bronze at the age of 14 in a small market town school in Shropshire, UK. Whilst at that school, I completed both the Bronze and Silver. I started my Gold Award there but at that point my father was moved to Singapore for work, so this is where I first found out about the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and I later completed whilst living in Asia. It was an amazing experience and I was able to experience lots of activities and meet lots of different and interesting new people along the way. I would highly recommend it to anyone with kids between the age of 14 and 24.

To learn more about the The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, please visit Intaward.org The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is a youth awards programme founded in the United Kingdom in 1956 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, that has since expanded to 130 nations. The award recognises adolescents and young adults for completing a series of self-improvement exercises modelled on Kurt Hahn's solution to the Six Declines of Modern Youth, proposing a remedy to modern maladies, which teens wholeheartedly embrace.

Tell us about The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award?

The Award was founded by the Duke of Edinburgh with Kurt Hahn in 1956. The Award has been running ever since and has gone from strength to strength. Being present in over 130 different countries and territories, with over 1.3 million young people taking part every year.

What must a student do to complete the requirements?

The Award is made up of three different levels; Bronze, Silver and Gold. You can start the Bronze from the age of 14, Silver from 15 and Gold from 16, up until the age of 24. Each level is made up of the same four core components: Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey; Gold has an extra section: the Residential Project.

How many students participate in the UAE?

SPRING 2019

Our stats for 2018 are still being collated but, in 2017, there were over 3500 young people taking part in the Award at various levels.

yallaabudhabi.ae

Education

Bus routes from all over Abu Dhabi

Year 7 and 8 opening in September 2019 High quality British education with a focus on the community and environment Amazing learning is central to everything we do. Personalising learning to suit the needs of the individual. Native English speaking teachers bringing years of UK and regional experience. Accelerated learning to ensure that every child makes remarkable progress. Families and the local community working hand-in-hand with staďŹ&#x20AC; to ensure our children feel happy and secure. Impressive facilities, fully equipped science laboratories, DT room and ICT suite, astro pitch, 25m pool, gymnasium, multi-sports court, bespoke playgrounds.

Admissions now open from FS1 to Year 8 +971 56 538 4416

admissions@ahbs.ae

ahbs.ae

Part of:

34,000

5,000

Students

Staff

Schools

Countries

Curricula

EDUCATION The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy For Boys Al Bateen 02 203 3333 zayedacademy.ae The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy For Girls Al Musalla 02 619 5555 szpag.com Virginia International Private School Khalifa City 02 555 4385 virginiaschool.ae ‫التعليم املتخصص‬ Specialist Education Anderson Education Abu Dhabi 056 120 1998 andersoneducation.co.uk British Institute for Learning Development Khalifa City 02 556 6078 Dots & Links Das Tower Al Khalidiyah dotsandlinks.ae 02 666 0948 Future Centre for Special Needs Mohammed Bin Zayed City 02 553 3506 future-centre.org

Kids First Medical Center Khalifa City 02 555 1437 kidsfirstmc.com Kip McGrath Education Centre Al Raha Mall 02 558 8505 kipmcgrath.ae Know How For Management Consulting 02 641 5525 knowhowtrg.com Mathnasium The Math Learning Center Khalifa City  02 555 8785 Al Reem  02 491 0122 Al Muroor  056 611 4212 mathnasium.ae New England Center for Children Al Mussafah 02 691 8888 neccabudhabi.org Stars for Special Abilities Al Zafranah 02 446 2048 starzuae.com Sylvan Learning Mohammed Bin Zayed City sylvanme.com 02 650 8505

MEET MEHR SIDDIQUE

There’s no shortage of rising star scholars in the capital, and Yalla takes a moment to learn about one of them. Mehr Siddique was brought to our attention by her mother, and Yalla spoke to her.

Tell us about Mehr.

She was born in Chertsey, UK in 2006 and arrived in the UAE when she was just one-year-old and has been living here since 2007. Mehr is in Year 7 and goes to the British School Al Khubairat. she is a keen traveller, loves following sports but particularly loves watching football and supports Liverpool FC. She also keenly follows cricket. In fact, this summer will be flying to watch some key matches of the Cricket World Cup being held in England.

Why did you decide to visit Kip McGrath?

We decided to visit Kip Mcgrath given the positive feedback we had received from some friends and at the time felt that Mehr needed some extra support in Maths. She has been coming to the centre for the last 3 years. I would like Mehr to continue to excel in all her subjects and choose a career that suits her interest as well as long term ambitions.

algebra, fractions, and percentages) and is doing rather well. She is currently two years ahead of her actual age and continues to enjoy being challenged further.

Have you seen Mehr’s confidence change?

Absolutely. Prior to coming to Kip Mcgrath, Mehr had the ability and capability to solve maths problems, but she lacked the confidence and was uncertain. She is now confident, works on her own, and is happy to ask for help when needed. There has been a remarkable change in her confidence. Over 40 years ago, Kip McGrath understood that every child learns differently and developed a methodology to help children to catch up and keep up in the core areas of English and Maths. Now, Kip McGrath Education Centres continues to tutor primary and secondary students to help them reach their full potential. Various locations. uae. kipmcgrath.com

How does Mehr find her sessions? Mehr is currently working with Will on maths (including

SPRING 2019

yallaabudhabi.ae

CRANLEIGH ABU DHABI ASKS: WHAT TRULY MAKES A SCHOOL SUCCESSFUL?

“It does not matter if the skill is acquired in the classroom, on the games field, on stage or in a casual conversation. What matters is that we provide our pupils with as many opportunities as we can.” – Michael Wilson

Principal, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi

re pupils equipped to achieve their full potential? There are a variety of factors that need to be considered in answering this question, but the significance of a school’s role in this process is undeniable. Whether through grading systems, academic structures, extra-curricular programs, sporting opportunities, or teaching calibre, a school has an immense responsibility to the pupil. The need for education to evolve and adapt to the fast changing world is fundamental. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is built to encompass all aspects of the changing educational landscape, highlighting how the acquisition of relevant and transferable skillsets are what truly allow an individual today to move in a positive direction. This belief is entrenched in the Cranleigh philosophy and continues to dictate the bespoke approach towards education at all levels of schooling. Part of being able to do this is looking within to ensure that such values are seen in the short and long term and across all disciplines. The last term at Cranleigh saw pupils achieving remarkable results that were recognised by the international education community as significant strides to be proud of. We saw Year 13 pupils complete their Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in October, with an impressive 69% of them attaining grades A or A*. Additionally, two Year 10 pupils each received a certificate and medal for scoring the “highest grade in the world” in their 2018 IGCSE exams. While these results are based on grading and exams, it is important to recognise how these pupils were able to achieve such great accomplishments. The school’s philosophy teaches us to view these achievements as an indication that skills-based learning is what allows the pupil to take what they learn from one subject or activity and carry it on to other subjects, and more importantly, to other aspects of their lives. Michael Wilson, Principal at Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, noted “We are hugely proud of what these pupils have acheived. However, there will be pupils who will make the same journey without the same accolade. Their journeys are equally important. We forget, at our peril, that it is the acquisition of relevant skills that allow an

individual to grow and that exam success should be a by-product of excellent teaching and learning.” Cranleigh Abu Dhabi instills a curriculum that not only enables pupils to achieve exceptionally good examination results but also engages them in the excitement of learning, preparing them for the wider world. While these scores are indeed excellent and a true reflection of hard work, it is easy as a school to get drawn into a mind-set that everything happens in the classroom and that exams are the only thing that matter. Endless debate about (I)GCSEs, A Levels, EPQs and the IB distract from the fact that they are simply vehicles to deliver skills. The school’s aim is to strike a balance between the academic disciplines and the wealth of extra-curricular activities on offer, sharing the same ethos as Cranleigh School in the UK. Cranleigh UK in its 150+ year history has always tried to start by finding out what the individual is good at and to build around that. The assumption is that you need fuel to fire an engine and the fuel that we are looking for is the child’s confidence. The school needs to maintain that it’s role is then to run a broad and exciting curriculum both inside and outside the classroom to allow each individual to grow and flourish. Michael Wilson adds that “it does not matter if the skill is acquired in the classroom, on the games field, on stage or in a casual conversation. What matters is that we provide our pupils with as many opportunities as we can.” Cranleigh Abu Dhabi was named International School of the Year 2019 at the prestigious Tes Independent School Awards in London, in recognition of the ambitious arts and cross-curricular project, Water in the Desert: A Zayed Legacy, which was developed into a broad cross-curricular programme reaching 800 pupils in Year 2 and above exploring the opera’s themes of heritage, identity and sustainability. This serves as one example of how the school takes the opportunity to use the skills that are learned in one subject and carry it over across the school with the aim pushing pupils to fulfil their full potential.

For more information on a Cranleigh education please email: admissions@cranleigh.ae or call 02 497 0000 www.cranleigh.ae

Artist in the making at The British International School Abu Dhabi Hamda Alfalasi 15, writes about her passion for art and what inspires her to create masterpieces. Years back, I would run up to my father to show him my masterpiece, where I had coloured outside of the lines and drawn the Sun on the corner of the page. He would constantly have the same bright smile on his face, full of pride and delight. That, was the reason I kept drawing. Art transposes something unique from your own mind into reality, or into the minds of others through a medium. It allows you to perceive the world in new ways, to find hidden patterns and make connections. It has been and still is my safe haven. As Thomas Merton once said, “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”

Art transposes something unique from your own mind into reality. Drawing is one of my favourite ways of creating art, I became ecstatic as soon as I heard that we were drawing for our mid-year exams.

After completing the tonal piece, I had decided to take a step further and go that extra mile, challenging myself to exceed the expectations. I began painting an idea I had in my head after our class visit to Manarat Al Saadiyat. Lamya Gargash, an Emirati photographer, had caught my attention with her solo exhibition. ‘Through the Looking Glass’ examines identity, perception and acceptance in modern day society. This instantly reminded me of a childhood book I used to read repeatedly. Max Lucado tells a truth a child is never too young to hear in his book "You Are Special". It speaks of Punchinello, the wooden Wemmick who constantly degrades himself due to what others say. Every day the small wooden people would stick gold stars or grey dots on one another. If one had golden stars, they were loved and adored by society. On the other hand, if one had grey dots, they'd be ignored and looked down on. This strongly linked to the concept of the photographer's work, where we attempt to battle the world's impossible expectations. Therefore, I began drawing links and developing my ideas, until I created my final piece. I painted my little brother, Saeed. I stuck golden stars on his face and attempted to capture emotions of displeasure and discontent.

My goal was to showcase conflicting emotions. Although he had golden stars and was positively spoken of by society, he didn’t let their judgements consume him. This was the idea I was aiming to put forward. Words and standards can be challenging, but don’t let them be your barrier, or even devalue you.

If Art is a language you speak, speak it with passion. Drawing links and creating new ideas with inspiration from bigger artists is one of many things I love about Art. It’s a special way of communicating with others, so if Art is a language you speak, speak it with passion. The ability to think and communicate in visual terms makes you special. If you're able to do that, you've unlocked a door full of new perspectives and opportunities. Hamda Alfalasi, Year 10 at The British International School Abu dhabi.

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Louvre Abu Dhabi

Zayed Port

Al Mina

Saadiyat Island

E12

Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khalifa Bridge

Lulu Island

Dhow Harbour

Al Jubail Island

Al Zahiyah

Corniche

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Al Muna Academy

Al Reem Island

Umm Yifen Island

Sh eik

Madinat Zayed

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Mangrove National Park

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American Community School of Abu Dhabi Jumeriah at Etihad Towers Al Khubeirah

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Al Manhal

Al Marina

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Al Bateen Coconut Island

Repton School Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Mall

Al Danah

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Al Maryah Island

Al Bateen Boat Yard Al Hudayriat Island

Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Resorts

This map is not to scale & is intended as a representation of Abu Dhabi only. Â© Phoenix Media & Publications FZ LLC, 2018

College

Khalifa Park Al Rehaan Al American International Muntazah School of Abu Dhabi

E22 ADNEC

Zayed Sports City

Dubai

Ramhan Island

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Al Shahma Aspen Heights British School

Abu

Dha

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Dub

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Amity International School Al Bahya

Yas Island

Yas Mall

Emirates Park Zoo

E12

Zeera Island

West Yas Academy

Yas Links Golf Club

nah

Yas Marina Circuit

Samaliyah Island

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Sas Al Nakhl

Sheikh Zayed Bridge

Al Raha International School

Al Yasmina Academy Khalifa City

E10

Khor Al Maqtaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a

Masdar City

Abu Dhabi Golf Club Al Maqta Bridge

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Umm Al Nar

Zayed University

Souk Qaryat Al Beri

Musaffa

Zayed City

h Bridge

Mohammad Bin Zayed City

Musaffah

The British International School Abu Dhabi Al Mafraq

Al Shawamekh E1 1

Al Maqta

Al Ain

Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium

Reach British School Bawabat Al Sharq

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Schools Distributing Yalla

EDUCATION Taleem Training and Skills Development Centre Al Nahyan 02 444 1100 taleemcentre.com ‫تدريس اللغات‬

Language Tuition Alliance Française Al Bateen afabudhabi.org

02 612 2900

American Language Center Al Markaziyah 050 757 0613 Berlitz Al Khalidiyah 02 667 2287 berlitz.ae British Council Al Khalidiyah 600 529 995 britishcouncil.ae English Plus Language Al Zahiyah 02 676 8008 englishplus.ae Eton Institute Khalifa Park etoninstitute.com Goethe Institute Al Zahiyah goethe.de

‫مجموعات اللعب وأندية األطفال الصغار‬

Play Groups & Toddler Clubs

Abu Dhabi Mums Dome @ Rawdhat abudhabimums.ae Caboodle The Galleria Mall caboodle.ae

02 616 6973

02 449 9649

Caterpillar Nursery Crafty Kids Playgroup Al Mushrif 056 643 4419 caterpillarnursery.com

02 672 7920

Children’s House Montessori Mummy and Me Group Khalifa City 02 444 1150

‫مدرسون‬

Tutors

Carfax Education carfax-education.ae 02 401 2594

thechildrenshousemontessori.com

Fun With Mum playgroup Khalidiya Village Compound  FunWithMum

Dots & Links Das Tower Al Khalidiyah dotsandlinks.ae 02 666 0948

Happynest Playhouse Al Raha Gardens 02 676 0605 Khalifa City  Happynest Playhouse

Kip McGrath Education Centre Al Raha Mall 02 558 8505 kipmcgrath.ae

Kidz Venture Mangrove Village 055 959 6600 kidzventure.ae

‫الكمبيوتر ودورات تكنولوجيا املعلومات‬

My First Gym Al Nahyan myfirstgym.com

Computer & IT Courses

Computer Explorers UAE Nation Galleria 02 681 8824 computerexplorers.com/uae Creative Robotics Marina Mall 02 681 0109  creativeroboticsuae

02 444 3560

Starfish Lane Starfish Cove Playgroup Khalifa City 056 463 5187

Nadia Training Institute Al Danah 02 677 4031 nadia-training.com Time Training Center Al Zahiyah 02 671 3828 timetraining.ae

SPRING 2019

Find the right school ofr your child online at yallauae.ae

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A RAMADAN PRIMER

Ramadan is a time to reflect, but there’s also lots to do. Experiencing the monthlong spiritual exercise offers a window into local culture like no other. This year, Ramadan is expected to take place from 5 May to 4 June (dependent upon moon sightings). Here is what you need to know about Ramadan.

What is Ramadan?

Muslims divide their months according to the lunar calendar. Ramadan is the 9th month in the lunar year and during this time healthy Muslim adults fast during the daylight hours. For approximately 29-30 days, Muslims refrain from consuming food or drinking liquid from dawn until sunset, and instead renew their focus on worship, devotion, and spiritual reflection. Apart from abstinence, avoiding immoral behaviour and showing compassion are all part of the requirements of the fasting faithful. This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Though practised by 1.6 billion Muslims around the world, Ramadan is often misunderstood. For some, it means lavish iftar dinners, pre-dawn meals, heart-trembling communal prayers, charity, festive social gatherings, and unbelievable community-building while for others it's very internal and entirely about cultivating mindfulness, serving God, and reflecting upon your blessings. One of the main purposes of Ramadan fasting is to truly feel and understand the needs of indigent people, and Ramadan is also a month of giving and sharing.

Ramadan Dos & Don’ts

Do say Ramadan Kareem to greet people all month long Don’t schedule lunch meetings with fasting friends or colleagues Do say yes to any iftar or suhoor invitation if invited Don’t assume people fast to lose weight. Better yet, don’t assume anything. Just ask. • Do spread the message and host an iftar yourself

◊ The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which means scorching heat or dryness ◊ Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new moon ◊ During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dusk until dawn ◊ Ramadan is celebrated as the month in which the Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him, received the first of the revelations that make up the Quran ◊ The fast is traditionally broken by eating dates and drinking water ◊ Children, pregnant women or those who are sick do not have to fast ◊ Each day before dawn, Muslims observe a prefast meal called suhoor ◊ The meal that breaks the fast after sunset is called iftar ◊ A greeting for good wishes is Ramadan Mubarak" which means "Have a blessed Ramadan" ◊ Following Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid Al Fitr, which is a day of feasting

• • • •

Did you know?

SPRING 2019

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BEST FAMILY IFTARS YALLA EATS

Ramadan is a month dedicated to spending time together, so Yalla has rounded up eleven iftar feasts fit for the whole family to sample during the Holy Month

iving in Abu Dhabi during the Holy Month of Ramadan means you and your family are able to experience the local culture and traditions of the UAE, which includes visiting a lavish iftar – that is, of course, child friendly! Here are #YallaEat’s picks of 11 most family-friendly iftars for Ramadan 2019.

UNDER THE BIG TENT

For guests looking for a superlative iftar experience, there is only one choice and that’s Emirates Palace’s Ramadan tent by the sea. The tent’s location evokes Arabian heritage, mystery, and refined hospitality. There is simply no iftar or suhoor in Abu Dhabi as sophisticated as those at the Palace. Break your fast with a feast that will be remembered by the whole family for decades to come. Emirates Palace. restaurants@emiratespalace.ae

SEASIDE NIGHTS

Keen on checking out the latest hotspots? Book an iftar in the city’s newest seaside haunt when you dine at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. Embark on a culinary journey at White to savour dishes from around the world. For a taste of Arabic cuisine, Tean offers favourite mezzes and grills with a contemporary touch footsteps from the sea. Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, 02 811 4444

CITY LIGHTS

SPRING 2019

Set at the base of the city, Jumeirah At Eithad Towers offers visitors five very different iftar options depending upon your tastes and preferences. Enjoy an iftar inspired by Italy at BiCE, global flavours in Rosewater or Nahaam, a 360-degree view of Abu Dhabi's splendid skyline at Observation Deck at 300, or a sunset iftar al fresco at the Pool Bar. Have it your way and strictly five-star. Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com

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Savour the Spirit of Ramadan at Abu Dhabi’s Finest Urban Resort. Iftar in the Sky Abu Dhabi Suite, Thursday – Saturday, Sunset – 9:30pm AED 320* per person Exquisite Iftar The Terrace on the Corniche Daily, Sunset – 9:30pm AED 235* per person

A MODERN TAKE ON TRADITION

Enjoy a sunset and a traditional iftar with a contemporary touch at The Abu Dhabi EDITION, featuring live cooking and carving stations, flavours of the Middle East, sushi selections, traditional sweets and pastries, and freshly-squeezed juices. Abu Dhabi EDITION. restaurantreservations.auh@editionhotels.com

Suhoor Under The Stars Azura Panoramic Lounge Daily, Sunset – 3am Special A La Carte Menu Shisha available Suhoor Crystal Lounge Daily, Sunset – 3am A La Carte Menu Complimentary Dessert Buffet *All prices are in UAE Dirham and are inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees and taxes.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Nation Towers, Corniche, Abu Dhabi, UAE t. +971 02 694 4444 stregisabudhabi.com

SAY YAS TO IFTAR

Embrace every moment this Holy Month of Ramadan at Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi, spend time with friends and family over a selection of traditional Arabian delicacies. Afterwards enjoy a suhoor at Skylite Rooftop with panoramic views of Yas Marina Circuit. Yas Hotel, dining@marriott.com

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For more information and reservation please call +971 02 694 4553 or email restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com

SPRING 2019

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BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG IFTAR

Break your fast but not your bank when you enjoy an iftar replete with mezze, salads, Arabic favourites as well as a selection of intercontinental specialities. Served in Essence restaurant, guests can benefit from the buy one, get one iftar deal for the first five days of Ramadan with a maximum of eight guests per table. Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, fb.beach@rotana.com

CREATURE COMFORT FOOD

Le Meridien marks this special time of year by offering unbeatable savings with it’s two-for-one iftars at the award winning Latest Recipe. Sample Middle Eastern favourites, such as baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves, red lentil soup and fried pita bread, kibbeh, spinach fatayer, arayes and lamb ouzi. Carry the evening on into the wee hours of morning in the garden at NRG terrace. Le Meridien, 02 644 6666

IFTAR YOUR WAY

There is no better time than Ramadan to gather the whole family and friends to experience the full spectrum of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi’s hospitality while getting immersed in regional traditions. Break the fast with a sumptuous iftar buffet at The Terrace on the Corniche or raise the roof with an iftar in the Sky in the world’s highest suite. St Regis Corniche, restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com

SPRING 2019

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A NEW GENERATION OF LUXURY.

Al Bateen Marina, PO box 127799, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T +971 (0) 2 208 0000 reservations.auh@editionhotels.com www.editionhotels.com

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AN OLDIE BUT GOODIE

Allow Flavours to usher you from day into night with its unique blend of five-star hospitality and Arabian elegance. The hotel’s iftar buffet features classic Middle Eastern favorites and delightful surprises such as samke harra, traditional lamb ouzi, dawood basha, and zesty garlic-coriander prawns alongside other international offerings. Sheraton, 02 697 0262

IT TAKES A VILLAGE During Ramadan, Venetian Village is the place for families with its special menus. Enjoy a French dining experience at La Brasserie, break your fast while watching the sunset with 3-courses of Mediterranean goodness at Todd English’s Olives, or put a distinctly Asian fusion on your iftar plans at Barfly, Venetian Village, Venetianvillage.ae

LOCATED IN YAS MALL giraffeUAE

SPRING 2019

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IFTAR BY THE SEA

This Ramadan, embrace the essence of family and friendship, and join the team at The Radisson Blu Corniche Tent for an unparalleled culinary experience. The extensive iftar buffet will provide irresistible traditional delights like lamb ouzi, harees, and malfouf, alongside indulgent desserts such as kunafeh and baklava. Don’t miss the lavish dates display when you visit. Radisson Blu Corniche tent, 02 681 1900

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOMMASO CIANCIO

See It All through Yallaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes.

YALLA EATS

R A M A DA N I F TA R & SUHOOR IFTAR | AED 120 Kids: 0-5 Free 6-12:AED 60 SUHOOR | 0-5 Free 6-12: AED 30

‫ ﺩﺭﻫﻢ‬٦٠ ‫ ﺳﻨﺔ‬١٢-٦ ‫ ﺍﻷﻃﻔﺎﻝ‬،‫ ﺳﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﻣﺠﺎﻧﺎﹰ‬٥-٠ ‫ ﺍﻷﻃﻔﺎﻝ‬،‫ ﺩﺭﻫﻢ‬١٢٠| ‫ﺍﻹﻓﻄﺎﺭ‬ ‫ ﺩﺭﻫﻢ‬٣٠ ‫ ﺳﻨﺔ‬١٢-٦ ‫ ﺍﻷﻃﻔﺎﻝ‬،‫ ﺳﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﻣﺠﺎﻧﺎﹰ‬٥-٠ ‫ ﺍﻷﻃﻔﺎﻝ‬،‫ ﺩﺭﻫﻢ‬٦٠ | ‫ﺍﻟﺴﺤﻮﺭ‬

‫ ﻣﺠﺎﻧﺎ ﹰ‬٢ ‫ ﻭﺇﺣﺼﻞ ﻋﻠﻰ‬١٠ ‫ﺍﺷﺘﺮ‬

BUY 10 GET 2 FREE radissonblu.com/resort-al-ain

R A M A DA N I F TA R & SUHOOR ‫ ﺩﺭﻫﻢ ﻓﻘﻂ‬١٦٩ ‫ﺍﻹﻓﻄﺎﺭ‬ ‫ ﺳﻨﻮﺍﺕ ﻣﺠﺎﻧﺎ ﹰ‬٥ ‫ﺍﻷﻃﻔﺎﻝ ﲢﺖ ﻋﻤﺮ‬ ‫ ﺩﺭﻫﻢ‬٦٩ ‫ﺍﻟﺴﺤﻮﺭ | ﺍﳊﺪ ﺍﻷﺩﻧﻰ ﻟﻠﻄﻠﺐ‬

IFTAR | AED 169 Kids below 5 years old Free SUHOOR | AED 69 minimum charge

Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche

SPRING 2019

radissonblu.com/resort-abu-dhabi-corniche

For reservations +971 2 681 1900

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SPRING 2019

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THE RISE OF COFFEE CULTURE

Yalla travels back in time to trace the much-loved Arabica bean’s ascension from out of the alleyways and onto the most exclusive five-star tables in the UAE Coffee is magical. From its aromatic allure to its spellbinding power to take a casual coffee shop chat among strangers into a memorable experience, one thing is certain; there is an unexplainable power to the bean. So much so that Abu Dhabi has seen gigantic growth in the java business. In fact, in just a few years the industry has grown from having zero roasteries to having six spots mapped throughout the country. We thought to ask those in the game about just how this coffee trend came about in the capital. We spoke to three industry leaders to uncover just when our desert metropolis came to have this lustrous affair with the coffee bean.

THE AROMA OF THE PAST

“Back in the day, steaming hot coffee and karak tea were served in tiny Styrofoam cups in alleyways around Abu Dhabi,” begins Aida Mansour, owner of Café Arabia opposite Umm Al Emarat Park. The chatty dynamo spotted a need in the market in 2010 to bring coffee and tea out of the alleyways and into the broad light of day, “I spent everything I had on this place,” says Aida, glancing wistfully around her café. “Literally, I took almost everything from my home to set this place up—my furniture, plates, and saucers! Guests noticed that the settings were mismatched, and they thought it was intentional, but it just came out this way. People were taken by the concept; it was eclectic. You walk in, and you feel it is warm and welcoming—the essence of an Arabian home.”

And, people responded. “I wasn’t prepared for the overwhelming response. Some people had to wait for 15 minutes – and it was and still is virtually unheard of here for people to wait for a seat.”

SPRING 2019

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YALLA EATS

ALLEYWAY KARAK TEA TO TABLE

“I opened the doors to Café Arabia on 9/11 (the day of the World Trade Center attack in the USA),” Aida explains. “It touched me, what happened that day; the media portrayed Arab people as terrorists, and I thought ‘I have to do something about this’.” Aida’s reaction was to put on display Arabian hospitality. “I wanted to welcome people to an Arabian home,” she smiles. “When you walk into a house you sometimes see photos of family. I wanted to put up the icons of Arabia, so she devoted prominent entrance wall space to photographs of the most influential citizens of the Middle East in politics, arts, and letters: actor Omar Sharif, Zaha Hadid, Iraqi architect of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Mohamed Al-Fayed, Naguib Mahfouz, a Nobel Prize for Literature winner, and partLebanese Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn. “These are sons and daughters of the Arab world,” says Aida, whose own son and daughter now live abroad, in the US and UK, respectively. “Though in the past many Arabs were not blessed with material wealth, they were rich in culture. You have the writer, the businessman, the actor, and the peace activist. They have different religions, they are from different Arab regions, but they portray the image of the Arab world I want to share with the world.” Aida later added a mosaic wall display portraying the 23 Arab countries, each person in their traditional dress. “It is to show Arab people come in different colours—blonde, black, brown, white, and everything in between, different religions and traditions, but we all share language and heritage. Café Arabia is essentially a bridge to the Arab world.”

THE MOON SHINES BRIGHTER BY THE SEA

Experience an authentic Ramadan at TEAN, White and Majlis Saadiyat Complimentary access to Kids and Teens Club and kids pool. Shisha available at a charge. Prices are in UAE Dirham and are inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees and taxes

+971 2 811 4342 | JSIrestaurants@jumeirah.com | jumeirah.com/ADramadan

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SPRING 2019

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THE STRONGER THE COFFEE

Elvis Tezoh of Al Vouri Roasters in Dubai has been roasting coffee for seven years (4 in the UAE and 3 in his native Cameroon). He has seen countless coffee spots open in the past four years and says, “demand for speciality coffee is on the rise, but the key to long-lasting success in this industry is quality and passion.” With more roasteries creating special blends and more baristas being trained to make great coffee, UAE consumers are able to differentiate a good cup of coffee from an average one, a distinction of taste which will be instrumental in taking the culture to another dimension, at least according to Elvis. “Cafés and customers are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about the world’s speciality origin coffees and blends and are asking for them by name. People rarely ask for just a cup of coffee anymore. They know exactly what they want and where it should come from.”

DAWN OF A NEW ERA

“Treaties are signed, and wars are settled over a cup of coffee. Coffee is life,” smiles Mohamed Al Mubarak. The year is 2016. There are scant speciality coffee shops in the capital, something Mohamed Al Mubarak noticed after a quick trip to Kuwait, a Gulf city with a highly developed coffee scene. This reason, coupled with a strong passion for coffee, led him to open Aptitude Café in Al Nahyan Camp. The brand is now widely regarded as the pioneer of the new coffee culture in Abu Dhabi. Fast forward to the present. Al Mubarak was selected to open a café on the premises of the Louvre Abu Dhabi. For Mohamed, Coffee really is life. “I wanted to create a space that was elegant, but felt comfortable like someone’s home,” explains Mohamed. “We meet for coffee for many reasons—to do business, share stories, settle issues—we have to feel at home in that setting.” Aptitude Café is at once stylish and cosy, which may seem at odds. To draw a fashion allusion, a refreshment here is like a pair of high fashion shoes that are comfortable to walk in — that’s Aptitude. Aptitude’s contribution to the bursting coffee scene is just that: high quality grounds served in a high fashion setting by a knowledgeable team, and it never hurts when you have an international art superstar, like the Louvre Abu Dhabi in your front yard. Abu Dhabi is now bursting at the seams with cafés, restaurants, and, as an extension of this, really good coffee. From the Blacksmith, Joud, and Saeed Cafe (and let’s not forget Notes and Café Artea in Khalifa Park) there is an endless array of exceptionally artful brews from which to choose.

SPRING 2019

In short, the speciality coffee trend in Abu Dhabi is consistently rising to greater heights. Independent roasters are popping up all over the UAE, the Department of Culture and Tourism has just launched a coffee-brewing initiative [Bait Al Gahwa] to teach visitors about traditional brewing methods, and coffee shops are sprouting up around the desert like ghaf tree sprouts. With such growth, it’s only apt to ask: is this artsy coffee-drinking culture here to stay?

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FROM ABU DHABI TO THE REST OF THE WORLD

Visitors to Abu Dhabi are surprised to find the wealth of independent coffee shops popping up alongside the international franchises, and they are increasingly pleased to sample local flavours and meet the creative shopkeepers who are dedicated to retaining a taste of heritage in their brew. “Arabian hospitality guides our nation,” explains Al Mubarak. “No guest is ever welcomed into an Emirati’s home without the offer of hospitality in the form of a bottomless small cup of coffee—this is just what we do; only our tools are now a little different.” Abu Dhabi has certainly come a long way when it comes to the rich brown brew. Gahwa and Karak tea once ruled the city but have since made way for a bean that has, for centuries now, had parts of the world captivated by its aroma and taste. Who knows, if the capital’s speciality coffee scene keeps this up, it could be well on its way to being recognised as not just the coffee capital of the UAE, but of the world.

THE MOON SHINES BRIGHTER OVER THE SKYLINE

Experience an authentic Iftar at Li Beirut, Rosewater and Layali Al Baraka and Suhoor at Li Beirut starting from AED 175 Prices are in UAE Dirham and are inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees and taxes

+971 2 811 5666 | JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com | jumeirah.com/ADramadan

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SPRING 2019

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SICILY À LA HEART

If food is the heart of a Sicilian family kitchen and a source of nostalgia, then let’s just call Chef Sergio cupid. Prepare to fall head over heels with Amici.

f all the restaurant floors were a stage, more people might bother to go out to all the great restaurants in Abu Dhabi, but alas they’re not. Thankfully, there is one: it’s Amici. You might think you know Amici, but if you don’t know the new chef de cuisine Sergio Favata, you do NOT know Amici.

Sicily is known for bright and bold flavours. What did you bring from home to Amici? My memories and traditions infuse every plate. It’s about the herbs, preparation of the tomatoes, and respect for the food. All the ingredients that we use are available in our towns. We require nothing else. In Sicily, great food comes from the simplest ingredients.

Share your memories.

I grew up in a small family, but I remember every morning the smell of fresh tomatoes. My mother cooked, peeled, strained them to make a sauce. I remember the smell of coffee and the sauce that has been cooking for five or six hours already before I woke up.

Did your mother teach you to cook then?

Actually not! One summer when I was around 12-13 and all my friends were out playing, my brother who is a master baker asked me to come help in his bakery, and I just loved it. My first job was to clean the machines, but then I learned to make dough, then bread, then pasta — I worked my way up.

What did you love about it?

Maybe it’s because we [Sicilians] are foodies. We love food. Maybe it was because I grew up in a very poor family, and I was paid in groceries.

So, you were paid in food?

Yes! Every Saturday, I was given a big bag, and I was so proud to bring it home to help feed my family.

What dish on your menu reminds you most of your family home? My sauce and my meatballs. They are both family recipes, and they are superb. You have never tasted anything like my mother’s meatballs. This is my signature dish.

What’s your secret?

It’s simple: milk and mint. The milk keeps them tender and the mint infuses them with flavour. The secret to my mother’s sauce is fresh tomatoes. Close your eyes and try to smell tomatoes fresh from the garden, hot from the Sicilian sun: that is the secret..

Tell us about your new menu.

SPRING 2019

I love this menu. It’s a journey from North to South in Italy, but in every dish, you can feel my hand: my herbs, my insistence on the freshest tomatoes, and my passion. My recipes straddle the past and the present. I update tried and tested family recipes with new cooking tricks that I have learned in other places. Panzanella salad for example, is a Tuscan recipe that I infuse with strong Sicilian citrus flavours and top it with the freshest seafood. This is my Italian marriage of flavours, casual, simple and made with love.

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“My memories and traditions infuse every plate. It’s about the herbs, preparation of the tomatoes, and respect for the food. In Sicily, great food comes from the simplest ingredients.”

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SPRING 2019

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FOR THE LOVE OF PIZZA

Throwing dough wasn’t in Peter Samaha’s original life plan, but we can all be grateful that he changed course and opened Pizza di Rocco. Yalla discusses everyone’s favourite pie and pizzeria with Peter.

What inspired you to open Pizza di Rocco?

A desire to be in the world of food and a great interest in pizza. I have great memories of trips to Italy and France growing up and my memories consist mostly of food! I would almost always order pizza, because it usually meant having as many flavours as possible in one meal and was always the most satisfying thing to eat! Pizza Di Rocco is my attempt to bring that to life here and enjoy the pizzas and flavours that I remember.

How would you briefly describe your menu and restaurants in as few words as possible? Authentic, flavourful, and homely

Did you ever imagine that you’d be a restaurateur?

I have a degree in Russian Studies, but my professional experience has always been in investments – acquisitions and business valuations. So, no. Pizza wasn’t in my original plan.

What gap did you spot in the capital that made you want to open a restaurant?

I have always felt that there was potential in the delivery side of the culinary scene and, as a pizzeria, delivery is a main part of our business. I remember ordering food when I had first arrived in Abu Dhabi in 2005, and it was a common concern whether your order came on time, was even correct, or how many times the driver would have to call to get the location correct. For a long time, delivery has been an afterthought for most places, and I always felt it could be improved so I did that.

Can you share an anecdote about why you are grateful for what you do?

I am proud of what Pizza Di Rocco has become and how we continue to develop, and I know that our team is proud too. They are very much a part of its success - more so than me - and it is a great source of inspiration to see them take pride in being part of Pizza Di Rocco and being emotional about achieving a vision that we have discussed together consistently over the years.

What are the hardest and easiest parts about being a standalone restaurant in the capital?

I feel that the business environment in Abu Dhabi is certainly improving, but the challenges that businesses face are often underestimated. There will always be surprises and unanticipated hurdles to overcome. I don’t know if this is necessarily an easy part, but one of the unique benefits of having established ourselves in Abu Dhabi is that there is a close sense of community spirit, a support, and pride, for ‘homegrown’ businesses and a positive energy that comes with being part of this ‘village’ city.

What sets Pizza di Rocco apart from its competition?

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Read all about the best restaurants online at yallauae.ae

I believe we know what we are, and what we want. I also believe that we have been lucky in finding the right teams to help us execute our ideas. This may be the main difference between us and our competitors.

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ITALIAN-STYLE PIZZA PARTY

Pizza di Rocco throws the best pizza parties in town â&#x20AC;&#x201C; your bambinos will not only get to eat delicioso wood-fire pizza, but they can get it made to order within a mobile pizza oven. To get the party started, call Pizza di Rocco and book a pizza party thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italiano. Pizzadirocco.com, 02 885 3222

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SPRING 2019

YALLA PARTY

MVP FOR THE DAY If you have a sporty little sprout, why not make their birthday party legendary when you book a party at Zayed Sports City.

f there is only one day a year when a kid should feel like the MVP, it is without a doubt on their birthday. This is a special day when children are surrounded by their family and friends, and each year it is a chance to make memories with their loved ones. When it comes to easy, breezy birthday parties, Zayed Sports City has packages that include everything you need to get the party started. Just add kids! There are more than six varied party packages on offer with something for everyone. Bowling, ice skating and football are super sporty options that get everyone moving and are huge hits with the entire family, and the most popular party is the water-based Wet ‘N Wild. This is played in the paintball park as the celebrators don special t-shirts and try to soak each other with coloured water. There are plenty of places to hide, but nobody stays dry! Older kids really like the high-powered paintball option too, which gets them out and running around in the scenario zone. For energy-filled parties in a beautiful outdoor setting, it doesn’t get any better than a bouncy castle party. The party experts pick a shady area and set up a giant jump house for kids to go wild on! Food and drink options are varied too. There are seven restaurant outlets to choose from, with everything from family favourites like pizza and burgers to tasty Asian takeaway and even a vegan healthfood concept! One of their restaurants is sure to deliver everything you need, and you’re even allowed to bring in the most special part of the day – the cake – from your favourite baker. When it comes to birthdays, there is little margin for error, and Zayed Sports City has perfected these celebrations over the years to make sure that the kids and their party-planning parents leave with huge smiles on their faces.

Zsc.ae

SPRING 2019

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YALLA PARTY

Read all about after school activities online at yallauae.ae

7 JULY– 29 AUGUST ZSC ACADEMY SPORTS CAMP IMPROVE IN SPORTS

Our most popular camp combines sports, games, arts and crafts, teambuilding and more to keep young ones engaged and entertained all day long. Promising lots of fun in a safe environment, ZSC Kids Holiday Camp is the top choice for busy families and active kids.

Improve in sports this spring with ZSC Academy’s ice camps. Led by internationally qualiﬁed coaches, our focused and active programming is designed to rapidly improve skills and help campers discover their potential.

8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. academy@zsc.ae 02 403 4228

yallaabudhabi.ae

SPRING 2019

YALLA SPORTS

lthough the Holy month of Ramadan presents its fair share of challenges to staying fit, it is a month that you can embrace your training and use it as an opportunity to maintain your progress and spend more quality time with family and friends through exercise. With a small bit of planning and structure around your training and nutrition, you can develop a routine that will work for you and ensure you stay on top of your fitness goals.

MAINTENANCE IS KEY

Your normal training routine is not going to be as it was so my advice is to use the month of Ramadan to maintain your fitness. This doesn’t mean that you should take a step back and go through the motions each day. Instead plan the month in advance and have some structure to your days and workouts. You shouldn’t be aiming to make personal bests, but instead you could work on some of your weaker areas, developing better form or even adding in some additional mobility work. The key here is to train your body enough so that it is primed and ready to go to push hard once Ramadan finishes. Short structured workouts work best and you should not be spending longer than 45 minutes working out.

BEST WORK OUT?

If you are a gym goer and like lifting weights, then my advice is to lift weights that won’t cause too much stress on the body as your body will not have the same energy that it is usually used to. Go for lighter weights that push your body to a 7 or 8 out of 10 in terms of exertion. If you enjoy your cardio, then I would advise sticking to low intensity exercises such as walking, cycling, or jogging as these will not put as much stress on your body like higher intensity workouts.

BEST TIME TO WORK OUT

One to two hours after breaking your fast is optimal. Early in the morning after first meal of day before sunrise is great. One hour or so before you break your fast is also good.

SPRING 2019

Read all about after school activities online at yallauae.ae

yallaabudhabi.ae

YALLA SPORTS

NUTRITION

It can be very tempting to overeat when breaking your fast. Most iftars are full of variety of mouth-watering and eye-catching foods. However, it is very important that you provide your body with the right nutrients and foods to keep your energy as high as possible while limiting your hunger while fasting.

THE POWER OF H2O

This is one of the most important aspects of your training during Ramadan and provides the biggest challenge for most. Ensuring you are well hydrated before you begin your fast is key. Aim to drink at least two litres of water or ten cups between iftar and suhoor so that you are ensuring that you are replenishing the cells in your body.

GET THE FAMILY INVOLVED

SWI MMI NG Aqua Baby Water Recreation Learn to Swim

Ramadan is a time when families and loved ones come together. Why not incorporate some exercise into your evenings? Going for walks together or playing games are a great way to enjoy your family time but also make your exercise fun and enjoyable. Ramadan should be viewed as the month to enjoy and maintain your fitness. View it as a chance to do the workouts you like best and try to get your loved ones involved. Aim to keep your fitness levels up so that you are in prime condition and motivated to get back into your normal training routine once it has finished. With a little bit of planning and structure around your food and training, the month of Ramadan is a month you will look forward to in relation to your training and fitness. View it as a personal challenge and one that will bring you even great rewards.

Development Squad Performance Stroke Correction Swim Fitness Distance Swimming Sea Swimming Triathlon Training

Wishing everyone a blessed holy month.

TENNI S Junior Tennis Program Adult Tennis Program

PERS O N A L TRAIN I N G & GROUP FI T N E S S Core Stability Circuit Training Endurance Training Fat Loss Functional Training Gym Based Boxing Mobility & Flexibility Pre & Post Natal Fitness Sports Nutrition Sports Rehabilitation Strength & Conditioning Suspension Training Triathlon Training Weight Management Yoga Pilates

Get Motivated, See Results, Change your Life Style

Kieran McMahon is a personal trainer based in Abu Dhabi who has a passion to help young teachers get in their best shape, improve their energy and gain more confidence and productivity. Learn more by emailing kmfitness_pt@hotmail.com

yallaabudhabi.ae

ADVANTAGE SPORTS UAE P 0 Box 136039, Abu Dhabi UAE Tel: 055 807 2482 or 02 679 2156 Email: info@advantagesportsuae.com SPRING 2019

Vitamin D deficiency is very common in the capital despite the amount of sun we get. Why is that? Dr. Samina Ahmed explains. The combination of poor sunlight absorption, being indoors too much, skin type, inadequate diet and lack of exercise all contribute to poor absorption of vitamin D.

How can you prevent a Vitamin D deficiency?

Lifestyle strategies that may support healthy vitamin D levels include eating foods rich in vitamin D, spending 15-20 minutes in natural sunlight daily, maintaining a healthy body weight, monitoring and treating medical conditions, especially applies to those that effect gut, liver, and kidney health, and talking to a doctor about any changes in health, particularly if there is a family history of osteoporosis or vitamin D deficiency.

What is the course of treatment?

Ideal vitamin D intake varies with different factors, such as age, activity level, and metabolic health. People should talk to a doctor about vitamin D intake goals. Three strategies for increasing vitamin D levels, include taking a vitamin D supplements, eating foods rich in vitamin D, and increasing exposure to natural sunlight.

If left untreated over time, vitamin D deficiency can lead to serious bone disorders. Severe and long-term vitamin D deficiency may result in rickets or osteomalacia. Both disorders are characterized by softening and weakening of the bones that can increase the likelihood of broken bones and lead to skeletal deformities.

How do you spot Vitamin D deficiency in yourself or your child? In children and adults, symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include: • Bone pain or tenderness • Dental deformities • Impaired growth • Increased bone fractures • Muscle cramps • Short stature and skeletal deformities • Getting sick or infected often • Fatigue and tiredness • Depression • Impaired wound healing

SPRING 2019

Vitamin D has many roles in the human body. Among the most important is aiding in the body's absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract, which helps to form and maintain strong bones. In addition, recent research has suggested that vitamin D may play a role in protecting the body from osteoporosis, high blood pressure, cancer and some autoimmune diseases.

If untreated, what can happen?

• Hair loss

Words by Dr Samina Ahmed, Family Medicine Consultant, HealthPlus Family Clinics at Al Forsan Village and Al Bandar

yallaabudhabi.ae

CMY

www.moorfields.ae/abudhabi

Delivering a wide spectrum of services from simple eye tests to complex eye surgery At Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, our highly-qualified and internationally renowned consultant ophthalmologists deliver the same exceptional standards of patient care as Moorfields London, the oldest eye hospital in the world. Surgical procedures and eye conditions we treat include:

• • • • •

Cataracts Corneal Glaucoma LASIK Lazy eye

• • • •

Oculoplastics – Cosmetic & Therapeutic Paediatric Ophthalmology Retinal eye diseases associated with diabetes Squints

If you or any of your family have any concerns, please contact us today as early detection and treatment can prevent serious and lasting consequences. To request an appointment call +971 2 635 6161 or visit www.moorfields.ae/abudhabi today.

ABU DHABI, UAE

DUBAI, UAE

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

LONDON, UK

‫الرعاية الصحية‬

HEALTHCARE

HEALTHCARE DUST: A HAZARD FOR YOUR HEALTH

The country’s desert setting can cause health problems unrelated to the heat. The amount of mineral dust particles and other air pollutants kicked up by desert wind are particularly high in the UAE. Though invisible to the naked eye, the tiny particles are very dangerous to everyone but particularly those with preexisting respiratory issues. Affected people should avoid being out and about for long stretches of time when air pollution levels are high. Check the Air Quality Index on an app called Plume and limit your activity on dusty and hazy days.

‫عيادات األسنان‬

Dental Clinics Advanced American Dental Center Al Bateen 02 681 2921 americandentalclinic.com Boston Dental Clinic Al Khalidiyah 02 666 7070 bostondentaluae.com British Dental Clinic Al Danah 02 677 3308 britishdentalclinic.ae Davinci Dental Clinic Al Marina 02 222 2616 davincidental.ae Dental Experts Center Al Khalidiyah 02 681 0060 dentexp.com Dr Firas Dental & Orthodontic Center Al Marina 02 222 2600 firasdoc.com Dubai Smile Abu Dhabi Dalma Street 02 665 0555 dubaismile.com/branches/abudhabi/

SPRING 2019

Numero Uno 02 557 5220 numerouno-me.com The Doctor’s Medical Center Al Khalidiya 02 666 3378 thedoctorsmedicalcenter.ae

Women’s Health Center Corniche Maternity Hospital Al Danah 02 672 4900 seha.ae ‫الرعاية الصحية يف املنزل‬

Healthcare at Home

Eastmans Dental Centre Al Khalidiyah 02 621 2828 Eastmans-Smile-SolutionsDental-Clinic

‫عيادات الصحة‬

Health Clinics

Be Well Home Care Abu Dhabi City 02 679 7533 bewellhomecare.ae

Elyzee Medical Center City Centre 02 566 4222 elyzeemc.com

Abu Dhabi Telemedicine Centre Phone based service 800 4959 telemed.ae

Manzil Healthcare Services manzilhealth.com 800 626 945

HealthPlus Children’s Specialty Center Al Khaleej Al Arabi 02 658 2221 hplus.ae/children/

Advanced Cure Diagnostic Center Al Bateen 02 667 5050 cure.ae

HealthPlus Family Health Center Al Bandar, Al Raha/Al Forsan hplus.ae

Awazen Medical Center 8th floor, Al Wahda Commercial Tower, Next to Al Wahda Mall (Same Bldg as Emirates NBD) Hazza Bin Zayed Str. info@awazen.com 02 441 1940 awazen.com

International Center For Dental Excellence Capital Centre 02 447 7752 icdexcell.com Jeiroudi Orthodontic Center Al Khalidiyah 02 665 4990 Smile Art Dental Clinic Al Nahyan 02 665 0555 dubaismile.com Smile Clinic smilerite.net 02 621 8700 Smilerite Khalifa City A  Smilerite

02 555 9595

The Doctors Medical Center Al Khalidiyah 02 666 3378 Masdar City 02 666 3378 TheDoctorsMedicalCenter.com ‫عيادات العيون‬

Eye Clinics

Eye Institute at Cleveland Clinic Al Maryah Island 800 8 2223 Moorfields Eye Hospital Centre Al Marina Village 02 635 6161 moorfields.ae/abudhabi/ ‫التد ريب على اإلسعافات األولية‬

First Aid Training

Burjeel Medical Centre Deerfields Mall 02 508 5500 burjeelmedicalcentre.com Canadian Medical Center Al Nahyan 02 555 9999 canadiancmc.com Harley Street Medical Centre Al Marina 02 613 3999 hsmc.ae HealthPlus Children’s Specialty Center Al Khaleej Al Arabi 02 658 2221 hplus.ae/children/ HealthPlus Family Health Center Al Bandar, Al Raha/Al Forsan hplus.ae HealthPlus Women’s Health Center Al Karamah 02 643 3494 hplus.ae/women/ Intercare Health Center Marina Village 02 639 0080 intercare-health.com King’s College Hospital Clinic Al Khalidiyah 02 501 4000 kchclinics.com

King’s College Hospital Clinic Al Khalidiyah 02 501 4000 kchclinics.com

Mediclinic Al Noor Family Care Center Various Locations 800 26422 alnoorhospital.com

National Ambulance 02 596 8600 nationalambulance.ae

Swedish Medical Center Al Khalidiyah 02 681 1122

Via Medical International Healthcare Liwa Tower 02 444 6500 viamedica-international.com ‫مستشفيات تستقبل احلوادث واحلاالت‬ ‫الطارئة‬

Hospitals with Accident & Emergency

Al Rahba Hospital Al Rahba seha.ae/alrahba

02 506 4444

Corniche Maternity Hospital Al Danah 02 811 7777 cornichehospital.ae Mafraq Hospital Mafraq 02 501 1111 mafraqhospital.ae Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital Al Danah 02 626 5265 alnoorhospital.com Sheikh Khalifa Medical City Al Wahda 02 610 2000 skmc.gov.ae ‫تدليك الرضع‬

Infant Massage BounceBack Yas Marina bounceback.ae

02 565 1212 ‫مستشفيات الوالدة‬

Maternity Hospitals Al Noor Hospital Various locations alnoorhospital.com

800 2000

Brightpoint Royal Women’s Hospital Al Mushrif 800 7676 brightpoint.ae Burjeel Hospital Al Dhafrah 02 508 5555 burjeel.com

yallaabudhabi.ae

HEALTHCARE ‫العالج الطبيعي‬

Danat Al Emarat Hospital Abu Dhabi Gate City 02 614 9999 danatalemarat.ae

Abu Dhabi Knee and Sports Medicine Centre Zayed Sports City 02 492 9000 healthpoint.ae

Healthpoint Hospital Zayed Sports City 02 492 9000 healthpoint.ae Lifeline Hospital Madinat Zayed 02 633 5522 llhhospital.com

LLH Hospital Madinat Zayed llhhospital.com

BounceBack Yas Marina bounceback.ae

02 565 1212

Mediclinic Al Noor Hospital Various locations 800 26422 alnoorhospital.com

02 626 5722

NMC Speciality Hospital Madinat Zayed 02 633 2255 nmc.ae Universal Hospital Al Rowdah 02 599 9555 universalhospitals.com

Corniche Maternity Hospital Al Danah 02 672 4900 seha.ae

02 633 5522

‫فصول ما قبل وبعد الوالدة‬

Maternity Pre & Post Natal Classes Abu Dhabi Mums Group The Dome @ Rawdhat abudhabimums.ae Advantage Sports UAE Various locations 02 679 2156 advantagesportsuae.com Baby At Home manzilhealth.ae

800 626 945

Burjeel Hospital Al Dhafrah burjeel.com

02 508 5555

Bodytree Studio Al Karamah 02 443 4448 bodytreestudio.com Corniche Maternity Hospital Ante Natal Class Al Danah 02 811 7777 seha.ae Danat Al Emarat Hospital Abu Dhabi Gate City 02 614 9999 danatalemarat.ae/ Let’s Go Yoga Various Locations 050 349 2336 letsgoyogame.com ‫القبالة‬

Midwifery BAYTI Home Healthcare LLC baytihhc.com 02 628 0888 Karen Wilmot The Virtual Midwife thevirtualmidwife.com ‫أخصائيي البصريات‬ Opticians

Al Jaber Optical Various locations aljaberoptical.com Yateem Opticians Various Locations yateemgroup.com

yallaabudhabi.ae

Physiotherapists

Franco Emirian Patrick Milton Al Danah

International Knee and Joint Centre David Baston Al Dhafra 02 444 6600 knee.ae Perfect Balance Reem Island perfectbalance.ae

02 4413316

The Doctor’s Medical Center Al Khalidiya 02 666 3378 thedoctorsmedicalcenter.ae ‫املستشفيات اخلاصة‬

Private Hospitals Ahalia Hospital Hamdan Mussafah ahaliagroup.com

02 626 2666 800 66666

Brightpoint Royal Women’s Hospital Al Mushrif 800 7676 brightpoint.ae Burjeel Hospital Al Dhafrah 02 508 5555 burjeel.com Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Al Maryah Island 800 8 2223 clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae Danat Al Emarat Hospital Abu Dhabi Gate City 02 614 9999 danatalemarat.ae/ Gulf Diagnostic Center Hospital Al Bateen 02 417 7222 gdc-hospital.com HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center Al Bateen 02 666 0363 hplus.ae/diabetes-endocrinology/

HealthPlus Fertility Center Al Karamah 02 643 3494 hplus.ae/fertility/

‫املستشفيات العامة‬

Public Hospitals

Al Mafraq Hospital Al Mafraq mafraqhospital.ae

02 501 1111

Corniche Hospital Al Danah 02 672 4900 cornichehospital.ae Sheikh Khalifa Medical City Al Wahda 02 819 0000 skmc.ae ‫الرعاية الصحية املتخصصة‬

Elyzee Medical Center City Centre 02 566 4222 elyzeemc.com Exeter Medical Center Bone & Joint Health Al Bateen 02 635 4321 exetermedicalcenter.com Gulf Diagnostic Center Al Bateen 02 417 7222 gdc-hospital.com HealthPlus Diabetes & Endocrinology Center Al Bateen 02 666 0363 hplus.ae HealthPlus Fertility Center Al Karamah 02 643 3494 hplus.ae Intercare Health Center Marina Village 02 639 0080 intercare-health.com International Chiropractic Specialty Center Al Markaziyah 02 634 5162 chiropracticUAE.com King’s College Hospital Clinic Al Khalidiyah 02 501 4000 kchclinics.com

Specialist Healthcare

Lisa Laws Hypnotherapy 055 771 2857 lisalawscoaching.com

Abu Dhabi Knee and Sports Medicine Centre Zayed Sports City 02 492 9000 healthpoint.ae

Lotus Holistic Center Khalifa City 02 557 9801 lotusholistic.ae

Acupuncture Gulf Chinese Medical Centre Al Markaziyah West 02 634 3538 gulfchinesemedical.net American Center for Psychiatry and Neurology Al Rowdah 02 697 9999 americancenteruae.com

WHO YOU GONNA CALL?

Here are the main emergency Numbers in the UAE in case you need some assistance:

American Center for Special Abilities (ACSA) Al Rowdah 02 666 5545 acsa.ae

999 POLICE

Bodyworx Medical Centre Al Dhafrah 02 641 9961 bodyworx.ae Corpofino Dermatology Al Danah 02 639 6991 corpofino.me

996 COAST GUARD

CosmeSurge Khalifa City Al Rowdah cosmesurge.com

998 AMBULANCE 997 FIRE DEPARTMENT

02 557 2220 02 446 6648

SPRING 2019

COMMUNITY

BBG: IN FOCUS

One way to network in Abu Dhabi is to join a business group. Whether you hail from the UK or not, Nick Cochrane-Dyet explains why the British Business Group is a great place to get connected.

The British Business Group Abu Dhabi is a not for profit organisation with an objective to promote and develop business relations in and between Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the UK by providing a forum for the British business community. The BBG helps UK companies identify new business opportunities, specifically in Abu Dhabi but also in the UAE more generally, predominantly through facilitating introductions and connections with the wider business community and helping new companies and individuals in the region to build and grow their own business network.

What are some of the major challenges facing businesses in Abu Dhabi?

The local economy is resiliently adapting to much needed changes, with bank mergers being an example. Sure, there are challenges for British companies especially with Brexit going on at the same time. The Chinese word for ‘crisis’ is made up of ‘peril’ and ‘opportunity’. Currently Keeping Calm and Carrying On whilst focusing on opportunity is the order of the day! British companies have determination, flexibility and innovation as strong positives.

You’ve been very supportive of Yalla magazine. What is BBG’s role when it comes to the establishment of small businesses? We are big fans of Yalla and are very glad to have featured the editor and BBG member Jane Barraclough as an ‘SME Success

SPRING 2019

Story’ in our own magazine Capital Letter. BBG Abu Dhabi often acts as a ‘first port of call’ for new arrivals to the region from the UK, entrepreneurs or start-ups venturing into new business in Abu Dhabi and looking for a bit of guidance.

What are some of the benefits of joining BBG?

The BBG very much provides a ready-made community, a group of people ready and willing to support new arrivals to the region by providing information and introductions that are helpful not only for a new business, but also advice on education institutions, deciding where to live, and recommendations for social activities. Members receive a BBG membership card, which provides discounts at over 25 outlets in Abu Dhabi, including restaurants, hotels, dentists, retail shops and airlines. This year, we are also collaborating with The Club Abu Dhabi and Bayshore at InterContinental Abu Dhabi to provide every BBG Member with a complimentary day pass to their pool and beach resorts for the BBG Member plus their families.. To learn more about BBG, visit Britishbusiness.org. To join the group, contact office@bbgauh01.ae.

What role does the BBG play in the local community?

yallaabudhabi.ae

MORE OF YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS ARE NOW OPEN AT ABU DHABI MALL! We are very happy to announce the addition of some great brands to our growing family! We have already welcomed American Eagle Outfitters, Beyond the Beach, Daiso, LadurÃ©e, Polo Ralph Lauren, Mumuso, The Coffee Club, Vox Cinemas, Wagamama and Samsung, and we look forward to Xtreme Zone joining us soon. Stay tuned, as more exciting announcements will be made in the near future! www.abudhabi-mall.com / 02 6454858 - Ext. 4

SPECIALIZED CHILDCARE, EVERY STEP OF THE WAY At Danat Al Emarat, we ensure you have access to comprehensive care for your child, from birth to adolescence. Our state-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Level III caters to ill and premature newborns in need of breathing and nutrition support using specialized equipment, such as function monitoring and body cooling machines. Our care continues in the Pediatrics Center, providing the comprehensive care your child needs, including: Pediatrics Neonatology Pediatric Cardiology Pediatric Surgery

Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Pediatric Intensive Care (PICU) Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) Pediatric Ophthalmology

Psychiatry Speech Language Therapy Dietetics & Nutrition

danatalemarat.ae 02 614 9999

Pediatrics & Neonatology I Obstetrics & Gynecology I Medical Subspecialties I Surgical Subspecialties I Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Diagnostics & Breast Imaging