Concierge Dubai Magazine, July 2012 by npimedia fz llc

July 2012 | issue 95

M A G A Z I N E V I S I T O R F I V E - S T A R l u x u r y T H E

dubai edition July 2012 | issue 95

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A R

V I S I T O R

M A G A Z I N E

Licensed by international Media Production Zone

360Ë&#x161; of enjoyment... Witness and enjoy 360 degrees of unparalleled views of Dubai and beyond from the highest public observation terrace in the world, At the Top, Burj Khalifa. Explore the unique, interactive Burj Khalifa multi-media exhibits. Explore the history of Dubai aboard the 65-metre-long travelator. To experience all-round enjoyment, visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa.

For more information please call us on 800 At the Top, or visit www.atthetop.ae to purchase your tickets today.

JULY 2012 / Issue 95 / Dubai Edition

Pu bl isher Rob N ichol a s

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WELCOME TO concierge

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CIRCULATION & M AR K ETING Miche l l e Hir ao c a rol mil a n

Concierge magazine is published monthly and copies a r e dist r i bu t e d f r e e of c h a rge i n f i v e -sta r a n d se l ec t fou r-sta r hot e ls. A lt hough e v e ry e f fort is m a de to e nsu r e t h e acc u r ac y of i n for m at ion con ta i n e d i n Concie rge m aga zi n e , t h e pu bl ish e r c a nn o t b e h e l d r e s p o n s i b l e f o r a n y e rro r s o r inaccur acies. Articles contained within Concierge m aga z i n e a r e u n de r cop y r igh t to t h e pu bl ish e r a nd ca nnot be r eproduced or tr a nsmit ted in a n y form, without first obtaining written permission.

Dubai is a captivating city at the best of times, but during Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, the emirate really comes alive with a feeling of spirituality that visitors of all faiths can enjoy. From Ramadan rituals to Eid celebrations, this is the time to immerse oneself in the many wonders of this truly enchanting event. Turn to page 34 to find out how this sacred period is celebrated and what to expect during your stay. In addition to being a time of self-reflection, Ramadan is also an occasion of great generosity, because Eid Al Fitr, the three-day celebration which falls immediately after the Holy Month (this year expected to start on August 19), is marked by the giving of gifts. This month Dubai’s famous shopping malls will be teeming with shoppers, in preparation for the celebration. For more information on what the emirate’s retail scene has to offer, turn to page 22 to read our definitive guide to the city’s malls, as told by Dubai’s shopping experts. There is also a variety of other activities to keep you entertained during your stay. Families should look to page 48, where they can read all about the city’s animal-themed attractions. Those with a passion for culture and history should direct their attentions to our Discover section, which begins on page 32 and this month follows the tumultuous path of Adrian Hayes (page 38). This Dubaibased explorer recently followed in the footsteps of the late Wilfred Thesiger who, with the assistance of Bedouin travellers, trekked twice across the Empty Quarter between 1945 and 1949. For quick information on where to stop and what to visit, simply turn to The Guide. With listings on everything from gourmet restaurants to cultural activities, you have all the knowledge at your fingertips to create a bespoke stay. Further information can be found at conciergedubai.com or by consulting your hotel concierge. Enjoy your Dubai experience fully with Concierge.

Nicholas Publishing International FZ LLC P.O. Box 500573, Executive Heights (Damac Building), Dubai, UAE Tel: 04 4243600 Fax: 04 4327505 Email: concierge@npimedia.com Web: www.conciergedubai.com Concierge’s circulation is independently audited by BPA Worldwide www.bpaww.com

Concierge magazine is also available in Russian, Arabic and Mandarin languages. Please request a copy from the concierge desk in the hotel lobby.

Жу рна л «Конс ьерж» та к же и з дае т с я на русском, арабском и китайском языках. Вы можете попросить экземп ляр ж у рна ла у консьерж-службы в вестибюле гостиницы.

‫ أطلب نسخه‬.‫مجلة كونسيرج متوفرة باللغة العربية كذلك‬ .‫من مكتب االستقبال في بهو الفندق‬ <<Concierge>> 杂志也以俄语﹑中文﹑阿拉伯语出版，请联系您所下榻的酒店前台索取。

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In focus Image: NPI archive Subject: A traditional Arabic welcome Arrive at any five-star hotel or private home in the UAE and the welcome is usually accompanied by the serving of Arabic coffee. A symbol of hospitality that dates back to Bedouin times, travellers traditionally greeted guests with a small cup of steaming coffee, usually mixed with a blend of ingredients such as lightly roasted coffee beans, cardamom, cloves and saffron. The custom remains today and coffee is served from a dallah (traditional coffee pot) immediately on arrival. The gahwaji (coffee waiter) refills the empty cup until the guest gently shakes it to indicate he or she has had enough. It is customary to take two or three cups.

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contents JULY 2012 / Issue 95

10/ESSENTIALS

The emirate’s top attractions, news and events

18/SNAPSHOT The beauty of The Dubai Fountain

21/SHOP 22/THE DETAIL ON RETAIL Dubai’s shopping experts share pearls of wisdom on the city’s top retail spots

28/THE PRECIOUSNESS OF TIME

An exclusive look at the manufactory of venerable watch brand Vacheron Constantin

32/DISCOVER 34/OBSERVING RAMADAN

In honour of Ramadan, Concierge explores the fascinating intricacies of the Holy Month

38/CROSSING THE EMPTY QUARTER An exclusive interview with professional adventurer and famed explorer Adrian Hayes

45/MONEY NEVER SLEEPS

From retail therapy to gourmet cuisine, Dubai International Financial Centre has a lot to offer discerning travellers

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contents JULY 2012 / Issue 95

47/EXPERIENCE 48/ANIMAL MAGNETISM

From riding camels to petting penguins, animal lovers are spoilt for choice in Dubai

52/REVIVE AND RENEW Summertime spa treatments

55/TASTE 56/SERVING UP DRAMA Enjoy a dinner with a difference

64/RAISING THE STEAKS

Carnivores come one come all, as we take a look at Dubai’s best steak houses

70/FLAVOUR OF ARABIA

As the sun sets, lavish iftar feasts await in Dubai’s homes and restaurants

Q 73/THE GUIDE

Comprehensive listings to plan the perfect stay

96/MY DUBAI

Lucy Chow, principal of The Elements Group, shares her thoughts on how to have a stylish stay in the city

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essentials JULY

TASTE Iftar

Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar starts on July 20. Fasting begins every day at sunrise and ends at sunset when an iftar meal is served. With hummus, grilled meats, freshly baked breads, soups and a whole host of other delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, the iftar is a true feast for the senses. To learn more about Ramadan turn to page 34.

EVENTS IN BRIEF Jovit Baldivino live in Dubai July 5 Winner of Pilipinas Got Talent Jovit Baldivino will be lighting up the stage at Al Nasr Leisureland on July 5. The Filipino singing sensation is set to deliver a variety of hits including Faithfully, Too Much Love Will Kill You and I’d Do Anything For Love. Tickets are priced at AED120. For more information visit timeouttickets.com

C AT S July 10 to 14 Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber’s stage masterpiece CATS is coming to Dubai. Performed by the Spotlight Academy at DUCTAC theatre at Mall of the Emirates, the show will feature many of the classic musical scores. For details visit ductac.org

SHOP

Dubai Summer Surprises Enjoy this annual family entertainment and shopping extravaganza, which will see major discounts on spring/summer 2012 fashion, electronics, homeware, cars and many other products. There will also be raffle draws and fun children’s events. Location: Across the emirate’s malls and souks. Dates: Until July 14.

S h e i l a a n d Ab aya Fashion Show July 11 to 14 In honour of Dubai Summer Surprises, The Fashion Catwalk at The Dubai Mall will host the Sheila and Abaya Fashion Show. Presenting three different 20-minute fashion shows daily at 6.30, 7.30 and 8.30pm, the first show is dedicated to retailers, the second to aspiring designers and the third to established designers. For more information visit dubaievents.ae

K i d s ’ F a s h i o n W e e k 2 012

EXPERIENCE Cirque du Soir

For something dramatic, visit Cirque du Soir at The Fairmont Dubai. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10.30pm to 3am guests will be enthralled by live performances and high-end theatrics from a variety of circus-themed performers including stilt walkers, contortionists, jugglers, magicians, dancers, sword swallowers and fire eaters. Much like the original London branch, this glamorous nightspot has become a popular haunt for the city’s ‘it’ crowd, with the crème de la crème of the Dubai social scene showing up in their droves for a taste of the theatrical. For reservations visit cirquedusoirdubai.com

July 8 to 14 Pint-sized fashionistas will take to the catwalk at Kids’ Fashion Week 2012 at Deira City Centre showcasing this season’s most sought-after collections for children. For more information visit dubaievents.ae

Dubai Sports World Until August 2012 Head over to Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre for the Middle East’s largest indoor sports event, highlighting football, rugby, basketball and volleyball matches, plus an indoor running track and a cricket academy. For more information visit dwtc.com

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DISCOVER Dubai Creek

At the heart of Dubai is the Creek, home to traditional wooden dhows laden with cargo headed for Iran, India, East Africa and beyond. Walk the banks of this historic waterway and see busy tradesmen loading and unloading their vessels as seagulls circle and swoop overhead. Discover charming wind towers, the traditional form of air conditioning and local souks and museums, before crossing the water via abra (water taxi) to experience a more culturally rewarding side of the emirate. Location: Dubai Creek separates Bur Dubai and Deira and is found in the northeast of the city. Time: Visit early morning or late afternoon onwards to avoid the midday sun. Price: An abra ride is priced at AED1 each way.

DISCOVER

The waterways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah No stay in the emirate is complete without a trip to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a charming old-style souk with open-fronted shops selling traditional and contemporary souvenirs. Idyllic waterways weave around the Madinat Jumeirah complex and offer beautiful views of both the souk and the surrounding five-star resorts. Hop on one of the quaint abras and take advantage of the excellent photo opportunities. Location: Umm Suqeim. The main abra station is between Toscana and Trader Vic’s restaurants. Time: Daily 11am to 11pm. Contact: 04 3666546.

EXPERIENCE Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Adrenaline junkies can enjoy speeds of 240kmh as they ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa, at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. An hour’s drive from Dubai, the theme park has 20 rides and attractions and among them is the G-Force which propels visitors 62 metres through the roof and back down again. Where: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. When: Tue to Sun 11am until 8pm. Price: General admission tickets cost AED225 for those over 1.5 metres tall and AED165 for those under 1.5 metres. Premium admission tickets available. Contact: 02 4968001.

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DISCOVER

Ask the concierge

Bastakiya

Anne Ullrich, Assistant Manager Guest Services, AT MEDIA ROTANA, shares her tips on how to have a FUN-FILLED stay in the cit y

Dubai is a city perfect for shopping and many visitors come to the emirate for a great retail experience. The Dubai Mall is a big favourite with a lot of our guests because with over 1,000 stores everything from clothes and jewellery to souvenirs and electronic goods is available. Guests often ask where they should head to for fantastic views and I suggest At the Top, located on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa at Downtown Dubai. Alternatively guests can book a table just over the way at Neos, which is a cocktail bar located on the 63rd floor of The Address Downtown Dubai. The first thing that hits you as you walk in, is the stunning view from the floor-toceiling windows. Dubai comes alive after dark, so I advise not to miss out on the nightlife. People By Crystal at Raffles Dubai is very extravagant, while Cavalli Club at The Fairmont Dubai is a luxurious restaurant and bar, decorated in Roberto Cavalli’s distinctive style with zebra prints and opulent chandeliers. Night clubbers will enjoy Trilogy at Madinat Jumeirah, which hosts a variety of international DJs. In addition to the glamour, there is also a historic side to the emirate and I always recommend our guests visit Bur Dubai, which is part of the older side of the city. Around this area they will find the Dubai Museum, which houses a variety of artefacts, photographs and life-sized displays. Guests can also admire authentic wind towers which used to provide the original air-circulation system before the city’s modern aircon. From here visitors can take an abra across the Creek and visit the gold and spice souks. Adrenaline junkies are in luck as well because there is an array of exciting activities to try out during their visit. My top recommendation is a skydive over Palm Jumeirah. This activity is arranged through Skydive Dubai (skydivedubai.ae) and is priced at AED1,700 per person.

The Bastakiya Quarter is a cultural melting pot and your chance to see a more traditional side of the city. Abundant with galleries, souks and with views of the Creek, this bustling area is the city’s oldest and most charming district. Location: Bastakiya Quarter, Bur Dubai.

EXPERIENCE A spa day

With no shortage of world-class spas throughout the city’s top hotels, Dubai is a wonderful destination to indulge in a spot of pampering. Enjoy massages, facials, scrubs, wraps and a range of other fabulous treatments. Our favourite spots include Zen Spa at the Radisson Royal (pictured), B/Attitude Spa at Grosvenor House Tower Two and Amara Spa at Park Hyatt Dubai. Turn to page 88 for a list of properties, with in-house spa facilities.

EXPERIENCE

The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence Widely regarded as Dubai’s exhibition strip, this 1.7km beachside promenade is lined with cafés and restaurants, beauty lounges and designer boutiques. As the name suggests the best way to explore The Walk is on foot. The area is accessible by car, but parking is limited and traffic is heavy, so we recommend taking advantage of the Dubai Metro, which stops nearby at Jumeirah Lake Towers.

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Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so much to see and do this Summer in Abu Dhabi. Join in a fun-filled family festival at ADNEC from 21 June - 19 July and get the best yet deals including free kids flights, free hotel rooms and free attraction tickets*. Purchase a ticket to Summer in Abu Dhabi for your chance to win a Ford Expedition. Make This a Summer to Remember â&#x20AC;&#x201C; In Abu Dhabi For more on our sensational summer deals, call 800 555 or visit summerinabudhabi.ae

LOOKING AHEAD Eid al Fitr August 19 to 22 To mark the end of Ramadan the three-day celebration called Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of FastBreaking) commences on August 19. On the day of Eid, Muslims gather early in the morning to perform the Eid prayer.

SHOP

Fashion Avenue Head to Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall and pick up the latest luxury labels from your favourite designers including Chanel (pictured), Burberry, Versace, Ralph Lauren and Gucci. Take a well-earned rest at the Armani Caffé before starting all over again. Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Contact: 04 3627500.

Gitex October 14 to 18 If you think duty free is the only place to bag bargains, think again. Gitex, the biggest consumer electronics sales bonanza in the Middle East, is your one-stop shop for gadgets, gizmos and all things technological. Make your way to the Airport Expo from 11am to 11pm. Entry is AED30. Children under five go for free. For more information visit gitex.com

D u b a i f a s h i o n w ee k October 20 to 24 Style mavens should clear their diaries in October because Dubai Fashion Week, the ultimate Middle Eastern fashion event, is upon us. Held at The Arena at the Dubai World Trade Centre, fashionistas can look forward to the latest spring/summer trends. For more information visit dfw.ae

F o r m u l a 1 E t i h a d A i r way s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix October 30 to November 1 Put pedal to the metal and take a drive to Abu Dhabi where world-class speed demons take to the tarmac for one of the most fiercely contested grand prix in the world. For more information visit formula1.com

D u b a i R u g b y Se v e n s November 29 to December 1 Rugby fans can rejoice, because The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens is three days of exhilarating action. As the opening tournament of the IRB Sevens, many of the rugby’s powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, fly in to compete for the trophy. For more information visit dubairugby7s.com

EXPERIENCE At the Top

A highlight of any trip to Dubai is a journey to At the Top, the observation deck in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. From the 124th floor, expect panoramic views across the emirate as well as a multimedia presentation on the history of Dubai. Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai. Time: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight. Price: Dated and timed tickets AED100 adults, AED75 children aged four to 12. Immediate entry AED400. Contact: 800 AT THE TOP (800 28843867 ) or visit burjkhalifa.ae/observationdeck

EXPERIECE Night golf

During the summer months, Dubai’s premier greens offer golfers the opportunity to perfect their backswings after dark with rounds of night golf. Emirates Golf Club (pictured) runs night sessions from 5pm for AED425, including golf cart and range balls. Contact: 04 3802222.

H RO N I S F

L.L.C.

P OL ITI M O ITALY

Shop No. 9, Sheikh Latifa Building, Nasr Square, Deira, Dubai-UAE. Tel / fax: +971 4 2227010 polychronis.spyropoulos@gmail.com

Burst of life

A truly spectacular sight, The Dubai Fountain captures the hearts and minds of thousands every day. Even the biggest cynics are impressed as this must-see attraction shoots jets of water up to 500ft (150m) in time to a selection of much-loved international recordings. Con te Partirò (Time to Say Goodbye) sung by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and Baba Yetu, an award-winning Swahili song, are among the most popular pieces. The Arab world’s topselling dance track Shik Shak Shok is another crowd favourite. Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake in Downtown Dubai, the dancing fountain is the tallest in the world surpassing the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas. Free to watch, this modern marvel of architectural excellence performs every 30 minutes from 1 to 1.30pm and 6 to 11pm Saturday to Thursday and from 1 to 2pm and 6 to 11pm on Fridays. Visit the cafés and restaurants around Souk Al Bahar and The Dubai Mall for some of the best views. Alternatively, secure a spot from the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. 18

PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

S NA P S HOT

SHOP Giorgio A rmani

Drama is at the heart of Giorgio Armaniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new autumn/winter campaign, which is set to debut this month. Photographed by acclaimed fashion photographers Mert Alas and Marcus Piggot, this powerful collection is a celebration of clean lines, structured shapes and intense monochrome tones. Giorgio Armani is available at The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.

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THE DETAIL ON RETAIL Learn how best to navigate Dubai’s sprawling malls with insider tips from the city’s retail experts

As summer temperatures continue to rise throughout the region, visitors to Dubai are likely to be seeking solace from the heat. The good news is that the emirate is abundant with shopping malls, which can be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort and give visitors the perfect excuse to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. From world record-breaking retail bastions such as The Dubai Mall, which houses over 1,000 stores, to exclusive designer hotspots such as BurJuman, shoppers will find themselves spoilt for choice and even more so during Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) – the region’s biggest entertainment and shopping fiesta – which runs until July 14. While giant mega malls are rich in variety, knowing where to start can be a challenge of its own. With this in mind, Concierge has called on a selection of experts including personal shoppers, style consultants and senior buyers from across the emirate to give us an insider’s guide on what each mall has to offer. So whether you’re looking for an unforgettable family experience or a shopping trip to rival all others, read on for a nudge in the right direction.

MA L L S / s hop

Insider’s guide to... The Dubai Mall Bianca Parzanezi is a style consultant at bpstylconsultant.com The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping centre in the world, but despite its size the mall is incredibly easy to get around. Everything is divided into sectors such as home and décor, high-end fashion, jewellery and dining which makes shopping much easier. For something special: Make some time to visit Book World by Kinokuniya on the second f loor, which

stocks more than half a million books and a thousand magazines. After exploring the aisles, take a seat in Kino’s Café, with views of the famous Dubai Fountain. Where to dine: Start the day with a cappuccino at Madeleine Café and Boulangerie on the ground floor. For lunch, Social House on the lower ground floor serves a range of international flavours and for afternoon tea try Magnolia Bakery’s hand-crafted cupcakes. Best for kids: As well as edutainment centre KidZania, where kids role-play as adults, there’s a 22-screen cinema, an enormous aquarium, an Olympic-sized ice rink and a Sega Republic indoor theme park. When to visit: The Dubai Mall is large enough not to feel overly crowded even when it’s busy, but if you want to pinpoint the quieter times, early weekday mornings are best. Where: Downtown Dubai Open: 10am to 10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu to Sat Contact: 800 38224 6255

As well as edutainment centre KidZania, where kids role-play as adults, there’s a 22-screen cinema, an enormous aquarium, an Olympic-sized ice rink and a Sega Republic indoor theme park

Insider’s guide to… BurJuman Nicole Robertson, is a senior buyer at Saks Fifth Avenue While BurJuman doesn’t have the same kind of tourist attractions as other malls in the emirate, it offers a comprehensive shopping experience. For something special: Saks Fifth Avenue is home to Prada and Miu Miu. If that isn’t reason enough to visit, it also houses renowned designers such as Marc Jacobs, Azzedine Alaïa, Dolce & Gabbana and Michael Kors. Outside Saks you’ll also find a variety of luxury boutiques such as Hermès, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Where to dine: Tucked away in BurJuman South Village on the third floor is the Pavilion Gardens. Here you’ll find a great selection of bright and airy restaurants and cafés, which make a great spot to relax and recharge.

When to visit: One of the best things about BurJuman is that it doesn’t get overly crowded like some other malls so any time is good time to visit. Those who want a break from taxi rides can take advantage of the Dubai Metro, which stops in front of the mall. Where: Bur Dubai Open: 10am to 10pm Sat to Wed and 10am to 11pm Thu and Fri / Contact: 04 3520222

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MA L L S / s hop

Insider’s guide to... Mall of the Emirates Georgina Gainzais is a senior buyer at Boutique 1 Those with a taste for high-end shopping should direct their attentions to the Fashion Dome, where you’ll find all the fashion favourites including Christian Louboutin, Cartier, Versace and Boutique 1. Where to dine: There are a variety of dining spots in Mall of the Emirates, including a wide-ranging food court. That said, my favourite place to stop for a bite is the Fashion Dome which has diverse culinary offerings. My top choice is Faucheron. In addition to the chic ambience, you won’t find better desserts anywhere else in the mall. Best for kids: If you’re bringing your children to the mall you won’t be disappointed. Ski Dubai, which is an indoor ski resort featuring five different runs, is an iconic attraction. It’s the ideal family activity, particularly when the weather is hot and the added bonus is that it gives ladies the perfect opportunity to don their stylish cashmere scarves.

When to visit: Weekday afternoons are the best time to visit because it’s at its quietest then. Some enjoy the bustle of evening time, but if you want to experience as many stores as possible and make the most of your shopping experience, plan to visit at around 2pm. Location: Sheikh Zayed Road Open: 10am to 10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu to Sat / Contact: 04 4099000

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sho p/ MA LLS

Insider’s guide to… Dubai Festival Centre Christina Karachaliou is a personal shopper and managing director of O’ My Glamour (omyglamour.com) The best thing about Dubai Festival Centre is that it is linked to Canal Walk, an outdoor Riviera-style shopping promenade, with over 40 outdoor shops and cafés. For something special: Make sure you visit the Dubai Gold Marketplace on the second floor, where you’ll find precious metals, stones and jewellery sets. Bartering is expected so begin by offering as low as 40 percent below the asking price. Where to dine: Along the waterfront you’ll find Marina Restaurant Pavilion and the Hard Rock Café which is a top choice for families. Best for kids: Dino Live is the world’s largest dinosaur exhibition with animatronics for wouldbe paleontologists, plus there’s a12-lane Bowling City, nine pool tables and four karaoke cabins. Where: Dubai Festival City Open: 10am to 10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thu to Sat / Contact: 04 2325444

DURING DUBAI SUMMER SURPRISES look o u t f o r… For theatrical action, head to Dubai Festival City where Hello Kitty and her furry friends will be singing their hearts out in a live karaoke show. July 4 and 14 For the latest styles and designs in sheilas and abayas, visit The Dubai Mall for the Sheila and Abaya Fashion Show. July 11 to 14

Insider’s guide to… Mercato Farah Kabir is a personal shopper and managing director of Dresscode by Farah (dresscodebyfarah.com) Mercato is located on Jumeira Beach Road, a ‘homey’ neighbourhood, a world away from the city skyscrapers. While it’s smaller in size than most other malls, it ticks all the retail boxes with a diverse mix of brands including Virgin Megastores, Massimo Dutti and Hugo Boss.

Where to dine: I always stop in for a bite to eat at Bella Donna, an Italian café on the first floor. It has an elegant and classy environment and the grand piano is a great touch. Best for kids: For entertainment head to the seven-screen cinema, or take the children to the Fun City play area on the first floor. The central area plays host to various entertainment, including orchestral quartets and acrobatic shows. For something special: Nail Spa, a ladies-only manicure bar is located on the first floor. You’ll find a tranquil world of water features, sleek bamboo-designed furniture and an army of skilled manicurists. When to visit: Working as a personal shopper I find mornings are the most convenient times to shop as the mall tends to be quiet, but for those who also like the frenetic vibe of a busy mall, Fridays or Saturdays are best. Where: Jumeirah Beach Road Open: 10am to 10pm Sun to Thu and 10am to midnight Fri to Sat / Contact: 04 3444161

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The preciousness of time Concierge visits the manufactory of venerable watch brand Vacheron Constantin to uncover past successes and movements for the future

Q As the saying goes, ‘from small acorns do big oak trees grow’ and never was a truer word spoken than of Jean-Marc Vacheron, a master watchmaker who began crafting timepieces at his small Geneva-based workshop in 1755. In the two and a half centuries since, Vacheron’s meticulously designed creations have become world-renowned and his legacy lives on at the Vacheron Constantin manufactory at Plan-les-Ouates in Geneva. With a client list that reads like a who’s who from the last 255 years, it’s no surprise that the luxury watch brand has maintained its position at the peak of the watchmaking firmament. What is more impressive, however, is that it has all been achieved through a limited production of handmade masterpieces. Less than 20,000 are produced annually, a select number of which make their way to Dubai where they are sold at Damas stores within the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Emirates Towers and also at the Vacheron Constantin boutique in Mall of the Emirates. Fine design and master craftsmanship has become a trademark for the brand and the Vacheron Constantin headquarters and factory at Plan-les-Ouates, which was designed by world-renowned architect Bernard Tschumi, is where a large proportion of the work is done. “People sometimes ask how long it takes to produce a Vacheron Constantin timepiece, but it’s impossible to put a timeframe on it,” says Yassin Tag, brand manager for Vacheron Constantin Dubai. It seems unfathomable, especially when considering the fast-paced productivity of many other watch brands, but the values that shape this company are clearly rooted in something deeper than profit. Concierge flew to Geneva to experience first-hand what it is that makes this esteemed watch brand tick...

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24/06/2012 11:53

W a t che s / s hop

Science meets art

While the watchmaking process is incredibly technical, Julien Marchenoir, brand equity and heritage director, is quick to point out that Vacheron Constantin always sits somewhere between innovation and tradition, paying careful attention to the artistic roots of the brand. “Geneva has always been an artisan city and as such watches were originally seen as pieces of art. This is a philosophy that we have tried to maintain.” Indeed, in 2007 a collection of masks at the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva was the inspiration behind the highly sought-after Les Masques collection of 12 timepieces. “Each piece is adorned with a miniature reproduction of the masks,” says Marchenoir. “It was a feat in watchmaking, but also an accomplishment in the art world.”

Absolutely flawless Walking through the ultra-sophisticated corridors of the manufactory at Plan-lesOuates in Geneva, it’s impossible not to feel the buzz of excitment that reverberates around the workshops, which house some 250 master watchmakers, engineers and designers. After all, this is where the magic happens, with around 80 percent of the watchmaking process executed by hand in these very workshops. Meticulous controls are carried out at each stage of manufacture and the workshops are situated in a controlledatmosphere zone to guarantee perfectly clean air. Lab coats and overshoes are mandatory, which only serves to reinforce the brand’s apparent quest for perfection. The process begins in the assembly workshop where watchmakers labour over scrupulously checked components. Built from scratch, this is an extraordinarily delicate process that sees pin-sized mechanisms fitted together under microscopes. The next step is the adjusting workshop, where the complications are regulated and repeatedly checked at 24-hour periods, before being approved for transfer to the complications workshop. Labour-intensive procedures, such as the making of the Tourbillon squelette, which requires 1,500 hours of work, is all part of the process in this area. Next door in the casing workshop we meet with master watchmaker Chrystian Lefrançois, who has been with Vacheron Constantin since 1966 and has worked with some of the most complicated movements

ever created at the manufactory. Here the dial, hands and case are painstakingly fitted to the movement. The decoration and aesthetics is equally specialised with artisans working for up to seven weeks on one timepiece. According to Lefrançois, success lies in the human touch. “Don’t underestimate the human element. Each piece has a very personal ingredient to it as it is crafted by hand,” he says.

The decoration and aesthetics is equally specialised with artisans working for up to seven weeks on one timepiece 1 Patrimony Traditionelle 14-day tourbillon (previous page) 2 Metiers d’Art Les Univers Infinis enamelling 3 Master watchmakers at work 4 Vacheron Constantin Boutique, Geneva

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Similarly, since last year Vacheron Constantin has associated its name with the annual Metiers d’Art Days, an artistic crafts’ event dedicated to promoting and passing on of over 200 skills, some of which are centuries old. From this relationship the Metiers d’Art collection has emerged and with it an assortment of limited-edition pieces. The latest range is the Metiers d’Art Les Univers Infinis, which combines the traditional techniques of fine watchmaking with artistic crafts such as enameling, gem setting and guilloche (decorative engraving) work. With only three models available – Fish, Dove and Shell – the series is limited to only 20 timepieces per model.

Classic collections With this in mind, Vacheron Constantin has become something of a collectors’ brand, with connoisseurs from across the globe setting their sights on many of the company’s rarer creations. For example, one piece likely to cause excitement among the haute horology set is the Malte 100 th Anniversary Edition model due to be released by the end of the year. Limited to 100 pieces, the tonneau-shaped (like a barrel) timepiece pays tribute to Vacheron Constantin’s first form watch launched in 1912. In addition to being equipped with Vacheron Constantin’s much-revered

hand-wound Calibre 4400 movement, this timepiece has a 65-hour power reserve. It also wins plaudits for its aesthetic appeal as each piece is individually numbered on the caseback and fitted with a strap in blue Mississippiensis alligator leather, secured by a Malte cross-shaped buckle crafted from platinum. Of course, while limited-edition pieces appeal to aficionados, those simply seeking a well-made watch that will stand the test of time are also catered for because the current collections include a variety of models. Patrimony, which is perhaps Vacheron Constantin’s most famous 5 Julien Marchenoir, brand equity and heritage director, Vacheron Constantin 6 Patrimony Traditionelle 14-day tourbillon 7 Master watchmaker at work

Vacheron Constantin

is available in Dubai at Mall of the Emirates (04 2221222) Damas at Burj Al Arab (04 3484816)

Damas at Emirates Towers - The Boulevard (04 3303262)

collection, delivers classics such as the super-refined Patrimony Contemporaine perpetual calendar and the new Patrimony Traditionnelle 14-day tourbillon, which is credited as one of the first watches to meet the updated and even more stringent Hallmark of Geneva requirements. Likewise, the Malte Collection, which includes four new models (three of which are approved in accordance with the new Hallmark of Geneva criteria) is also a fine example of Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to tradition. Women are also catered for because in 2003 the first ladies’ collection was introduced. Inspired by the original asymmetrical model that won the Diplome du Prestige de la France in 1972, these elegant timepieces are the epitome of femininity. Whichever timepiece appeals, according to Tag, when you invest in a Vacheron Constantin watch you receive more than a watch. “We produce a limited number of exceptional timepieces every year because we are a company that favours quality above all else. From the design through to the production, almost everything is created by hand and with this in mind, these timepieces have a warmth and a soul. Ultimately, when you invest in a Vacheron Constantin what you’re actually getting is a little piece of history.”

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Discover Historical habitat

Dating back to 1896, the Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum House is a traditional Arabian home and one of the oldest houses in the emirate. Once the residence of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the grandfather of the present-day ruler Sheikh Mohammed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the house was turned into a museum in 1986 and is open to the public. For more information call 04 3937139.

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Observing Ramadan Ramadan is a rewarding, spiritual time in which Muslims practise great self-control by fasting from sunrise to sunset. With the Holy Month beginning in July, what better time to explore Ramadanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fascinating intricacies

Q Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar, the month in which Muslims believe that Allah chose to reveal the Qurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;an to the Prophet Muhammad. For Muslims, Ramadan, which this year is expected to start on July 20 with the sighting of the new moon, is a deeply spiritual time of year that marks a personal journey in which they seek to become closer to God. Muslims increase their faith through the act of fasting during Ramadan, abstaining from eating and drinking between sunrise and sunset. They also recite the Muslim profession of faith (shahadah), perform ritual prayers five times a day and donate time, food and money to charitable causes. With the aim of pleasing the Almighty by helping others, controlling emotions such as anger, lust and envy and refraining from gossip and physical intimacy, Muslims seek to cleanse the soul.

Ramadan rituals

To those unfamiliar with Islam, Ramadan has its own distinctive ambience and while daily life continues, there are subtle differences that every visitor will experience. Working hours are curtailed and shops may close for prayer times, so be aware of the slower pace of life and adjusted hours of operation. Also, to be respectful to those observing the rituals of the season, nonMuslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day and to dress modestly. Ramadan is a social season and everyone, not just followers of Islam, can get involved in Ramadan-related activities. Friends and families gather each evening to enjoy iftar (the meal over which the fast is broken) and celebrate their blessings. Visitors to Dubai are encouraged to experience an iftar buffet and sample the full range of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Ramadan is a social season and everyone, not just followers of Islam, can get involved in Ramadan-related activities. Friends and families gather each evening to enjoy iftar (the meal over which the fast is broken) and celebrate their blessings

1 Prayer beads (previous page) 2, 3 & 5 Jumeirah Mosque 4 Reading the Quâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ran

Fasting during Ramadan is known as sawm, one of the five pillars of Islam. The remaining four are: shahadah, sincerely reciting the Muslim profession of faith; salat, performing ritual prayers five times a day; hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca; and zakat, giving alms (or charity) to the poor and needy. Visit any of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shopping malls throughout the Holy Month and it is likely you will see charity stands dotted around the main thoroughfares. Ramadan is a time of giving and Muslims donate money, clothes and food to charities. Visitors who would like to participate in the spirit of Ramadan might like to give larger tips than usual to their waiters or taxi drivers.

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Learning about Islam

Respecting Ramadan

The end of Ramadan is marked by a three-day holiday called Eid Al Fitr (expected to fall on August 19), which begins with the sighting of the new moon. The first day of Eid is spent with family, although traditionally the senior member of the household will pay courtesy visits to prominent elders or local sheikhs to wish them Eid Mubarak (a blessed Eid). For the rest of the Eid break many families take short trips together to other emirates. Although most retail outlets and restaurants are open for business as usual, it is good to call in advance and check. For those with a limited knowledge of the Islamic faith, a guided tour around Jumeirah Mosque is an excellent educational experience. The local guides are fun, friendly and extremely approachable, encouraging questions and factual discussion on Islam and Ramadan. The tour, which runs every Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday at 10am throughout the year and costs AED10 per person, offers an intriguing and charming insight into local culture and religion. Guides discuss ablution, the mosque, Islam and rituals during the Holy Month. In Abu Dhabi city is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the largest in the UAE and a must-see on any trip to the capital. While breathtaking from the outside,

Refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day in Ramadan, even inside cars

It is considered polite to cover shoulders and legs The only live music played during Ramadan is traditional Arabic music. Dancing is not allowed Most businesses and government offices will close between 2 and 4pm Iftar, the meal over which the daily fast is broken, is held around 6.30 to 7pm depending on the time of year and when the sun sets Supermarkets and shopping malls are normally open during the day and have extended hours at night – sometimes until midnight or even later

6 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 7 Burning oudh (Arabic perfume) 8 Traditional Arabic lantern

it is simply stunning inside. As one of the most visited buildings in the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is not only a place of worship, but a place of learning and discovery through its education and visitor programmes. Open to all and aimed at encouraging cultural understanding, visitors can take guided tours at 10am and 11am each day. No prior booking is required. These complimentary tours last approximately 45 to 60 minutes and are led by Emirati guides who will show you around the mosque interpreting the architecture, artistic elements and Islamic culture. Visitors are advised to arrive approximately 15 minutes before the tour time and meet one of the visitor experience coordinators. General visiting hours are 9am to noon, daily.

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Crossing the Empty Quarter UAE-based adventurer Adrian Hayes has crossed the north and south poles, scaled Mount Everest and created world records along the way. His latest journey follows in the footsteps of the late great explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, who twice crossed the Rub Al Khali

Q The Rub Al Khali, or the Empty Quarter as it is known in English, is one of the harshest places on the planet. With towering sand dunes that shift in the wind, temperatures that soar during the day and plummet at night and very few inhabitants, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the easiest of regions to cross on foot. Yet that is exactly what Dubai-based adventurer Adrian Hayes did. Armed with seven camels, two Emirati companions and some Omani guides, Hayes set off in the footsteps of famed explorer and travel writer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, who twice crossed the Rub Al Khali between 1945 and 1949. Thesiger was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 1910. He was educated at Eton and Oxford in the UK and returned to Ethiopia in 1930. He completed a number of expeditions in Africa and served in the army there during World War II. He explored the southern regions of the Arabian Peninsula from 1945 and travelled to Iraq, Iran (known as Persia at that time), Kurdistan, French West Africa, Pakistan and Kenya. He is well-known for his two travel books, Arabian Sands and The Marsh Arabs. The former, which was published in 1959, documents his travels through the Rub Al Khali and describes the disappearing Bedouin way of life. Here Adrian Hayes talks about his journey following in the footsteps of the famous explorer...

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What made you decide to do this journey?

I was seconded to the Royal Army of Oman from 1991 to 1993 and that was when I first heard of Wilfred Thesiger and saw his books. It was one of those dreams, along with climbing Everest and walking the [north and south] poles. I have lived in the region for the past five years and for me, it was a no-brainer. I know the region, I speak Arabic reasonably well and it was one of the great adventures I wanted to do. It took two years of full-time planning. When Thesiger made the journey, his challengers were a few bandits and smugglers, those kinds of things. The challenges now are borders – which you need permission to cross – authorities... all of these things. Our journey wasn’t a re-creation, because you can’t re-create what was done in 1947, but we wanted to follow in the footsteps of Thesiger in his first crossing of the Empty Quarter. That was our main aim – to experience it and see what it’s like now compared to 1947.

‘Our journey wasn’t a re-creation, because you can’t re-create what was done in 1947. We wanted to follow in the footsteps of Thesiger in his first crossing of the Empty Quarter’

1 Adrian Hayes, Saeed Rashed Al Mesafry and Ghafan Mohammed Al Jabry 2 Liwa Fort

What has changed since then?

In 1947 there was much more grassland and grazing. That’s now gone. We saw a lot of deserted farms. The water that fed these has disappeared, dried out or become too salty. The water’s not there, so the grazing is not there. The Bedu are no longer nomads roaming the deserts with their camels. They still have their camels and they still farm them in the desert areas, but they’re not roaming. They’re living in houses. In some ways the desert is emptier than it was in 1947, but on the other hand you have tracks, you’ve got roads and you’ve got four-wheel drives.

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3 Adrian Hayes 4 Desert camp 5 Camel caravan

Tell us about the journey We went from Salalah to Abu Dhabi, which was 1,600 kilometres and took 44 days. We skirted the Saudi border, but stayed in the UAE. We went to a place called Umm Zamoul where the borders of Saudi Arabia and Oman meet and from there we continued to Abu Dhabi, passing through Liwa and Al Ain. Salalah to Liwa was pretty much what Thesiger did, except we stayed inside Oman. Thesiger also went to Al Ain just as we did, but after that he went all the way back down, while we continued on to Abu Dhabi. The first phase of the journey from Salalah to Mughshin was quite incredible.

It was across the Dofar mountains in Salalah. It’s the only place on the Arabian Peninsula that gets a monsoon, so it’s green. We were hacking through impenetrable jungle bush and forest. Then after 30 kilometres it becomes a wadi landscape with dried up wadis and lots of rock climbs for a few hundred kilometres. After that you’re in the sands of the desert. In the first phase, word spread about our journey so people would gather to meet us and there would be a big celebration. Goats were slaughtered, there was dancing, poetry, speeches… it just got bigger and bigger.

In t he second phase, in t he middle of nowhere from Mughshin to the UAE border, one sheikh drove 200 kilometres to be with us. Another highlight was riding into Abu Dhabi on our camels on the final day with four police car escorts, stopping at traffic lights with cars next to us. It was a surreal and fantastic way to finish. Our journey was touching to this part of the world. Some people did this in the ’90s, but they were three Canadians with a whole army of people. They were outsiders. What made this different was that we were one Brit, two Emiratis and some Omani riders. It was the same composition as Thesiger’s group. I was given the name Abu Ali over a year ago. It means father of Ali and was given to me by one of the Omani sheikhs. This was one of the most rewarding parts. Knowing the language and speaking it – and it improved greatly throughout – I was accepted and I could get in touch. I dressed i n t he t rad it iona l clot hes a nd wore t he khanjar (Omani dagger). I took it seriously.

DIS C O VER /Fo o tstep s o f T h esig er

Tell us more about the team There was myself and two others, Saeed Rashed Al Mesafry and Ghafan Mohammed Al Jabry. They are Bedouin, army officers and camel farmers which is why I selected them. We chose people who wanted to do the journey because it is part of their heritage and culture. They loved camels too, so it worked. They’d been taught at school about Sir Wilfred Thesiger, or Mubarak bin London as he was called. It was all part of their history. He’s an iconic figure here, in the whole Middle East. Thesiger is so well-known and so respected and I think what surprised me when we went to Salalah through the wadis and the villages in Oman is how much respect he was afforded and how much we were too. We were modern-day heroes. I think in the cities in the Emirates, a lot of the culture has been lost, but the culture and heritage is alive and well when you get out of the cities. This trip was a reminder and reinforcement of where they’ve come from – Bedouin heritage, their hospitality, kindness, generosity, the camel heritage and where they’ve come from in a short period of time.

6 6 Leaving Liwa Fort

‘What surprised me when we went to Salalah through the wadis and the villages in Oman is how much respect [Thesiger] was afforded and how much we were too. We were modern-day heroes’

Did you ever meet Thesiger? I saw him once when he gave a speech, but I didn’t get the chance to chat with him. I did meet his two companions, Salim bin Kabina and Salim bin Ghabaisha of the Al Kathiri tribe. This was a major tribe in parts of the Empty Quarter. They were housed by Sheikh Zayed after they finished their expedition and live in Abu Dhabi, but they’re Omani.

PHOTOGRAPHY: WOUTER KINGMA

What did you learn along the way?

READ ON Adrian Hayes’ book, ‘Footsteps of Thesiger’ about his journey will be available in September along with a documentary. For more information, see adrianhayes.com

The thing I learnt most was about the culture and heritage. There is a huge Bedouin culture which so many visitors don’t get the chance to see. I’ve lived in the Emirates a long time and I’ve never been immersed in the culture so much as I was on this 44-day trip. I’ve never experienced anything like it. When you get in touch, you realise how rewarding and special it is. So that’s what I learned. The power of nature, the desert always wins. I was mesmerised. You wonder what’s beyond the big sand dunes and that’s part of any adventurer’s spirit. What’s beyond the next mountain, next sand dune, the next ridge…

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Ramadan Kareem Ramadan Kareem

Traditional Iftar and much more to cherish This Ramadan, come and enjoy Iftar with loved ones for only AED 130 per person, at Celsius Restaurant and cherish the true essence of a traditional Ramadan experience. After Iftar, visit Al Mersat Restaurant and savor a delightful Arabic mezzah menu spread while enjoying playing traditional Ramadan games until Sohour. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss our book for 10 and pay for 8 offer! Also by confirming your booking before 15th July, get a 15% discount on your food bill. Relax and let our catering team arrange your private Iftar and Sohour events. Traditional tastes with a new experience this Ramadan at Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai. Terms and conditions apply. Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE. T: +971 4 308 0550 rric.royaldubai@radissonblu.com radisson.com/royal-dubai

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MONEY NEVER SLEEPS

Dubai International Financial Centre is no ordinary financial district, it’s also home to gourmet restaurants, world-class galleries and designer boutiques

Q Exploring a city’s financial district isn’t likely to be at the top of many visitors’ itineraries, but before you pass judgment, please note that Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has plenty to keep visitors entertained. In addition to being the near-shore financial hub of the Middle East and North Africa, this high-class district, located just north of Burj Khalifa, boasts a variety of attractions including world-renowned restaurants and wine bars, prominent art galleries and a selection of designer boutiques to impress even the most seasoned shoppers. By day the district is alive with a mixture of prosperous financial types and high-end shoppers. However, members of Dubai’s art community also have a big presence in the area, which is helping the emirate to gain recognition for its art scene. Art Dubai, the largest annual contemporary

art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, is organised every March and many galleries taking part are based in this high-end neighbourhood. Among them are XVA Gallery, Opera Gallery, Edge of Arabia and Ayyam Art Center, all of which regularly showcase international exhibitions. Much like the rest of modern Dubai, DIFC has to be seen to be believed. With 110 acres of design brilliance, the area is populated by jaw-dropping architectural wonders such as The Gate – the signature building of DIFC – and the French art deco-inspired Ritz-Carlton DIFC. The retail scene is equally rewarding with many top brands represented. Interior design gurus are also in luck because Andrew Martin opened his first Middle Eastern store in DIFC and this is the place to head to for one-off home pieces and vintage furniture finds.

1 Zuma 2 The Gate, Dubai International Financial Centre

DIFC is home to super-chic Japanese restaurant Zuma (rumoured to be a big favourite with Victoria Beckham)

At night DIFC comes into its own. A buzzing atmosphere reverberates around the area with Dubai’s ultraglamorous crowd able to cherry pick from an array of stylish bars, such as Caramel and The Gramercy. Foodies can also look forward to a gourmet bill of fare because DIFC is home to a selection of super-chic eateries, including exclusive Japanese restaurant Zuma (rumoured to be a big favourite with Victoria Beckham) and trendy Argentinean steak house Gaucho. The best news is that DIFC is on the Dubai Metro red line, which runs from 6am to 11pm, Saturday to Thursday and from 1pm to midnight on Fridays, so when it’s time for bed you don’t even have to worry about hailing a cab.

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Ramadan Kareem

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek invites you to a traditional Iftar buffet Shabestan restaurant Dhs 139 per person Boulvar restaurant Dhs 115 per person Al Mansour Dhow cruise for private groups starting from Dhs 115

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experience

PHOTOGRAPHY: npi archive

Wa v e of e xc it e m e nt

With its hot temperatures and calm blue seas, Dubai is ideal for a spot of adrenaline-fuelled water sport. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterskiing, surfing, sailing or wakeboarding (pictured) there are endless activities to enjoy off the coast of this dynamic destination. Ask your hotel concierge for details or call one of the reputable operators in the Experience listings from page 80.

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ANIMAL MAGNETISM From playing with penguins and learning to ‘fly’ a falcon to riding camels, animal lovers can enjoy an array of wild experiences in Dubai

Q Fly a falcon In years gone by, the magnificent falcon would catch the prey that helped to feed Bedouin families, contributing in a practical way to the survival of the nomads in a hostile desert environment. As a result the birds are respected, admired and revered in local culture and people from all backgrounds keep and breed them. To learn about these extraordinary animals head to Al Shaheen Xtreme Falconry at the Desert Conservation Reserve, which is a national park dedicated to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of the Arabian Desert. Visitors have the opportunity to learn the basics of bird training, such as body positioning and language, as well as feeding the birds and enjoying a hands-on experience of ‘flying’ them. Al Shaheen also offers packages in partnership with Banyan Tree Al Wadi resort in Ras Al Khaimah and visitors can look forward to afternoon hawk and eagle spotting walks and private tours of the sanctuary. Alternatively, for those who want to expand their knowledge about these birds even further, there is an intensive two-day, 16-hour course during which visitors have the opportunity to learn about basic training for the birds, history, species, food, hooding and how to care for them. The course costs AED4,000 and includes tea, water, coffee and pastries. Price: From AED225 / Contact: 04 4356550 Open: Daily from 8am to sunset / Location: Al Ain Road

Ride a camel Synonymous with the Gulf region, the camel has played a significant role in desert life for thousands of years. Previously used for transportation, trade, food and entertainment, these ships of the desert are deeply ingrained in Emirati life and visitors to Dubai can get up close and personal with the iconic animals at several spots throughout the city. One of the best is the Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre, on Al Lahbab Road, off Al Ain Road. Featuring 2.4sq km of natural desert, this ecotourism site is home to a collection of friendly camels. Guests have the opportunity to meet the animals, ride them, groom them and feed them, as part of a unique ‘camel encounter’. The summer riding hours are 6 to 9pm, seven days a week and desert rides last around an hour. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Price: From AED200 per adult, AED100 per child under the age of 16 and AED50 per child under the age of seven Contact: 04 4274055 Open: Daily from 6 to 9pm (hours are extended in winter) Location: Al Lahbab Road on the E77

This ecotourism site is home to a collection of friendly camels. Guests have the opportunity to meet the animals, ride them, groom them and feed them, as part of a unique ‘camel encounter’

Dive with sharks Take on 10,000 pounds of lean muscle, not to mention 10,000 razor-sharp teeth and dive with the largest number of captive sand tiger sharks in the world. Anyone can experience a shark dive at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, whether you’re a certified diver or not. Even those who cannot swim can participate after completing a short course. There are three dives a day, allowing up to four divers in each group to explore the wonders of the underwater world. A dive master and an instructor are on hand to supervise and

will assist throughout the experience. A full set of dive equipment is included in the package. Once you have completed the dive, visit the Underwater Zoo and see other fascinating marine creatures such as otters, penguins, octopus, crabs and seahorses. There are also piranhas and crocodiles for plucky types. Price: Shark dives AED825 without diving certificate. AED625 with certificate. Entry to Underwater Zoo AED50 per person Contact: 04 3422993 / Open: Daily 1 to 7pm Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai

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Equestrian adventure With barometer-bursting heat it may be too hot for horseracing and polo matches, but anyone with a passion for horses can still look forward to a variety of equestrian activities. Mushrif Equestrian & Polo Club, located on Al Khawaneej Road, past Dubai International Airport, offers early morning rides and moonlit tours. The moonlit tour is held on the night of the full moon, which is expected to take place on the July 3, while next month it is currently scheduled for August 3. Experienced and complete beginners are welcome so whatever your experience level you can feel safe in the saddle. Price: Call each centre for details. Contact: 04 2571256 Open: Daily 5pm to 10pm / Location: Al Khawaneej

Play with penguins A good way to avoid the midday heat is the region’s only indoor ski slope. In addition to the choice of green, blue, red and black runs, this wintry escape is now home to a colony of gentoo and king snow penguins. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with these friendly creatures in a unique one-on-one encounter. All the way from SeaWorld in the US, the loveable birds were raised in the care of humans and Ski Dubai’s ‘Peng-Friend’ programme allows guests to meet the snow penguins and spend time interacting with them in an environment that has been specially created at Ski Dubai to replicate their natural Antarctic habitat. The 40-minute encounters are guided by professional snow penguin trainers and include one-to-one time and the opportunity to take pictures. Price: From AED175 / Contact: 04 4094090 Open: Sun to Thu 1 to 9pm and Fri and Sat 12 to 9pm Location: Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road

Swim with dolphins Around the world, dolphin shows and interactive programmes are incredibly popular and Dubai is no exception. Since opening in November 2008, Dolphin Bay at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai has educated thousands of visitors about these gentle mammals through fun and hands-on experiences. Interaction takes approximately 90 minutes and involves a lesson about dolphins and how they are trained, as well as a brief run-through of the day’s programme. Then there is 30 minutes in the water where visitors can kiss and hug the dolphins, as well as swimming freely with the playful creatures. Visitors can also take a ride back to shore on a dolphin’s back. Born with the appearance of a permanent smile, bottlenose dolphins are known for their good natures and this unique encounter promises to be an unforgettable and emotional experience for people of all ages. Price: From AED790 / Contact: 04 4261030 Open: Daily 10am to sunset / Location: Palm Jumeirah

REVIVE AND RENEW If soaring July temperatures have left you feeling washed out and weary a soothing detox treatment could save the day

Spa InterContinental European Detox This indulgent spa at Dubai Festival City is a haven of relaxation, comprising 10 treatment rooms, two couples’ rooms and a private VIP suite. When Dubai’s hot summer sun saps the body’s energy, the 90-minute European Detox will help. Designed to tackle sun-dried skin, this pampering session begins with a 30-minute body scrub. A blend of natural salt, infused with essential oils, the scrub helps to improve circulation, while also enhancing lymphatic drainage. After the scrub, a seaweed body wrap is applied, which helps to eliminate excess weight and also improve skin tone. Following that, the therapist carries out a pressure-points head massage and a one-hour full-body massage. The essential oils used in the massage contain black pepper and lime, which warm the muscles and break down toxins. Where: InterContinental, Dubai Festival City When: 8am to 10pm / Cost: AED625 / Contact: 04 7011111

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, DIFC Hydrating Mud Cocoon Before heading to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, it might be a good idea to browse through personal iPod tunes and choose a few because, at this five-star sanctuary, visitors have the option to choose their own background music tracks. This is just one example of outstanding service at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Another is the Hydrating Mud Cocoon, an 80-minute body scrub and wrap treatment. The pampering session begins with a full-body scrub using Ila Himalayan Salt. Imported from Eastern Pakistan, these salt crystals are considered to be the most mineral-rich in the world. The exfoliation takes 20 minutes and is followed by a15-minute body wrap. A quick shower washes the body clean and then it’s time for the full-body massage, which leaves skin feeling smoother than ever. Where: The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC When: 11am to 8pm Cost: AED450 / Contact: 04 3722222

S PA S / E XP E R IE NCE

Talise Ottoman Spa Talise Body Detoxifying Situated on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the Talise Ottoman Spa is not only one of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most well-regarded spas, but also one of the most beautiful, with winding walkways and landscaped gardens. Begin a journey of wellbeing, which combines the ancient healing philosophies of the Ottomans with modern spa technology and book in for the 90-minute Talise Body Detoxifying treatment. The spirulina algae and seaweed body mask contains essential vitamins and protein and helps to stimulate circulation. This is followed by a vigorous full-body massage. Active plant oils and enzymes penetrate the skin and assist with the dispersion of toxins, leaving the body refreshed and revitalised. Where: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray / When: 9am to 9.30pm / Cost: AED695 / Contact: 04 4530000

Rich in antioxidants and containing key ingredients such as amino acids and vitamins A, C and E, the mask helps to reactivate healthy cell functions and increases cell renewal rate Spa at The Address Downtown Dubai Detox Facial This is the perfect place for dissolving stress and revitalising the mind and body. Enjoy a soothing pick-me-up in the form of the 80-minute Detox Facial. Beginning with a gentle cleansing treatment, designed to remove all the impurities that commonly build up when skin is exposed to extreme temperatures, the treatment continues with a deep-tissue massage before a facial mask is applied. Rich in antioxidants and containing key ingredients such as amino acids and vitamins A, C and E, the mask helps to reactivate healthy cell functions and increases cell renewal rate, delivering instant firmness and long-term radiance to the skin. After the treatment, visitors are invited to the idyllic relaxation room. With a steady flow of ginger tea and views over one of the most scenic developments in Dubai, it will be difficult to leave this peaceful urban retreat. Where: The Address Downtown Dubai / When: 9am to 10pm Cost: AED475 / Contact: 04 4368888

Taste The Iv y league

The Ivy Dubai has all the culinary dynamism and atmosphere of its London-based branch (which remains a popular venue for A-listers), but it boasts a more intimate feel than the original. Prepare for delicious signature dishes such as seared foie gras, herb-roasted lamb rack and shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pie. For bookings call 04 3198767.

serving up drama For a meal to remember, try one of these unique dining spots

Q As you might expect for a city famed for its diverse cuisine, Dubai is abundant with remarkable restaurants. From eating in the world’s highest restaurant, At.mosphere, which is perched 442 metres above ground level, to enjoying a meal aboard Bateaux Dubai, which sails along the historical waters of Dubai Creek, the variety of restaurants that have their own unique selling point is exceptional. For a sense of the magnificence, book a table at Al Mahara at the Burj Al Arab (pictured), where you can board a ‘submarine’ and enjoy an underwater dining experience. Alternatively, enjoy panoramic views of the city from Al Dawaar at the Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria, the emirate’s only revolving restaurant, or dine in the kitchen at Thiptara at The Palace – The Old Town. Those looking for a down-to-earth dinner with a twist can enjoy a little bite of Bangkok at Fish Market, where the day’s fresh catch of fish and vegetables are on display and ready to be cooked, Thai-style, to your exact requirements. Read on for Concierge’s selection of defining dinner venues...

UN I Q UE D I N I N G/ t a s t e

50% off

Wine & Cheese Platter

Times of Arabia welcomes you to dine with us and experience Arabic hospitality at its best. Offering a fine dining feast for any occasion, revel in Arabic favourites, explore new tastes, or relax with friends over shisha and Mezze. In honour of the FĂŞte de la Musique enjoy this exclusive discount throughout June. Available daily from 6:00pm to 9:30 pm For enquiries/reservations:

TEL: 04 368 6044

Find us at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai. Opening hours 12:30 - 02:00 Daily.

UN I Q UE D I N I N G/ t a s t e

Dine… high in the sky At.mosphere

A spot on the 122nd floor is a unique selling point in itself, but being the world’s highest restaurant is just one of At.mosphere’s many attributes. Situated inside the Burj Khalifa, this ultra-modern setting not only offers some of the most awe-inspiring views in town, but the restaurant – the At.moshere Grill – oozes sophistication. A polished wooden bar, elegant low lighting and twinkling candles add to the already stylish interior. The At.mosphere Grill offers a full à la carte menu for dinner and serves excellent prime cuts of beef, organic poultry and seafood – all freshly sourced and prepared. If you’re looking for drinks after your meal head through to the At.mosphere Lounge, which has a lively ambience and soft music mixed by the resident DJ. Location: Burj Khalifa / Try: Yellowtail kingfish Open: Daily 7 to 11pm / Contact: 04 8883828

Take your seat for a two-and-a-half-hour voyage and savour the sights and iconic landmarks that line the Creek and beyond. While admiring the scenery, choose from a set menu of international gourmet cuisine

Dine… on the water Bateaux Dubai

For tranquil views of Dubai Creek, book your spot on Bateaux Dubai. This glass-encased, fully air-conditioned cruiser is moored on the Bur Dubai side of the waterway and is elegantly styled to create a luxurious setting. Step on board and discover three sections: the outdoor deck, perfect for panoramic sundowners; the indoor middle lounge, which houses tables for families and larger groups; and the indoor prestige lounge for a more intimate experience. Cruise for two and a half hours and savour the sights and landmarks that line the Creek. Choose from a set menu of international gourmet cuisine, including marinated tiger prawns with roasted tomatoes and smoky avocado aioli. Alternatively, enjoy the flavours of seabass with crushed potato salad or honey-roasted chicken breast. Whatever your preference, Bateaux Dubai is a classy dinner cruise. The menu is priced at AED330 per person with soft drinks and AED450 with alcohol.

Location: Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai Try: Slow-roast lamb shank / Contact: 04 3154777 Boarding: Daily from 7.45pm Sets sail: 8.30pm

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UN I Q UE D I N I N G/ t a s t e

Dine… under the sea Al Mahara

Probably the only restaurant in the world that involves a ‘submarine ride’ to your table (a motion simulator replicates the real thing) Al Mahara – the Burj Al Arab’s signature seafood restaurant – is an opulent affair. Three minutes after stepping into the submarine-inspired capsule you arrive in a room of regal red, blue and gold, surrounded by a giant aquarium abundant with marine life, including sharks and stingrays. In true Burj Al Arab style, everything is lavish especially the menu, which includes dishes such as caviar ocsietra gold (caviar sprinkled with gold leaf) and hand-dived scallops. Those with a sweet tooth will be impressed by a dessert menu that boasts the Burj Al Arab Chocolate Sphere – a delicious blend of caramel, chocolate, raspberry and red pepper compote. Location: Burj Al Arab / Try: Atlantic wild turbot Open: Daily 7pm to midnight / Contact: 04 3016076

Dine… at 360 degrees Al Dawaar

It’s a retro concept, but don’t dismiss it until you’ve tried it. Al Dawaar is the city’s only revolving restaurant and, with 360-degree views over the low-rise buildings of Deira, the Gold Souk, Dubai Creek, Downtown Dubai in the distance and the Arabian Gulf, it is the place to go for superb panoramas. The restaurant takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes to fully rotate and it is only the floor that moves while the walls, windows and ceiling remain stationary. A good tip is to remember not to place your belongings on the window ledge otherwise you’ll soon see them moving slowly towards the next table.

As you might expect from a restaurant in one of the city’s most time-honoured five-star hotels, the Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria, Al Dawaar puts as much effort into the quality and variety of food as the technicalities of its surroundings. With a menu that offers consistently innovative cuisine through its international buffet, you can look forward to tempting appetisers and main courses from Europe, the Middle East and Asia and a lavish dessert buffet including ice cream, cakes, tarts, cookies and sweets. Location: Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria Try: Beef tenderloin Open: Daily 6.30pm to midnight for dinner Contact: 04 3172222

t a st e /UN IQUE DIN IN G

A L S O T RY Benihana

Head to Benihana at Al Bustan Rotana to sample authentic Japanese sushi and teppanyaki while watching the chefs perform a multitude of tricks including knife juggling. Contact: 04 2820000 The Noble House

The waiters at The Noble House at Raffles Dubai don’t just serve tea; they tip it from behind their backs, pouring a metre-long spout into a minuscule cup. The most amazing thing about this restaurant (other than the food) is the sense of the theatrical. Contact: 04 3248888

Dine… market style

Fish Market

Get up close and personal with the bill of fare at Thai fish restaurant, Fish Market at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek. Here you can choose your cuisine from either the tanks, which house lobsters and crabs, or the ice counter, which displays a diverse assortment of fish. The concept is market-style, so armed with a basket, guests peruse the day’s fresh catch of fish and vegetables, all priced by weight, before choosing what they want and how they’d like it cooked. It sounds a bit daunting, but servers are available to offer advice and suggestions for newcomers, but are also happy to take a backseat with veteran diners. While the menu is full of choices, there are a few combinations that stand out from the rest. The giant tiger prawns, fried in lemon and butter sauce, make a great starter, while the squid and vegetables, served with coconut sauce is another great combination. Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek / Try: Giant tiger prawns Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 4502000

Dine… in the chef’s kitchen Thiptara

Curious diners can book the ‘chef’s table’ at five-star Thai eatery, Thiptara. Located just inside the doors of the kitchen, in a private cubical, diners can watch, taking in the sounds and aromas as the team, lead by talented Thaiborn head chef, Chef Sutthipunth, go about their nightly business. Dining in the kitchen means you bypass the views of The Dubai Fountain, but the reward is that you get to see dishes such as Goong pad Mead Mamueng (sautéed prawns with cashew nuts, capsicum, onions and a chili dressing) and Satay Gai (grilled lamb loin satay marinated with yellow curry and peanut sauce) expertly executed. For those who want a special finishing touch, request a second table in the restaurant area for the latter part of your meal and enjoy the fountain views from there. Location: The Palace – The Old Town / Try: Satay kay yang Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm / Contact: 04 4287888

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put yourself in the picture leave the rest to us

Offering a choice from superior rooms to family style 2, 3 and 4-bedroom suites and a tantalizing choice of cuisines, you can relax by the pool or beach or tend to business and simply leave the rest to us. Just let us know you are coming.

over 850 locations

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s t e a k HOU SES / t a s t e

Raising the steaks From the finest free-range Argentine Angus beef to ribeye cooked at 1,000 degrees Celsius, Dubai’s steak houses are world class

Q Few things satisfy the meat-lover’s palate like a juicy steak, which is why steak houses are among the most popular restaurants in Dubai. Visitors can dine at an array of stylish haunts seven nights a week, choosing from chic spots such as Hunters Room & Grill at The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, famous for its Porterhouse corn-fed steak selection, to flamboyant favourites like Gaucho Dubai at Dubai International Financial Centre. Another spot, which sits high on the protein pile is Ruth’s Chris Steak House at The Monarch Dubai. Uniquely broiled steaks with sumptuous sauces are the trademark of this high-end eatery, while The Exchange Grill at The Fairmont Dubai has made its name serving well-known classics with a sophisticated twist. The Rib Room at Jumeirah, which was refurbished last year, also boasts impressive menus to satisfy even the most discerning diners. Read on to find your perfect match...

Gaucho Dubai Ha i l i ng from L ondon, awa rdwinning restaurant Gaucho Dubai joins ranks with Dubai’s elite steak houses. Located in the heart of the city’s cosmopolitan financial district, this stylish eatery is famous for its sumptuous steak creations. The 160-seat restaurant, which is decorated with distinctive cow-hide walls, mirror panels and opulent black and white leather furniture, is a feast for the eyes, but nothing compares to the menu, which has been carefully cultivated by renowned executive chef Fernando Trocco. With an international career spanning 30 years, Argentinean-born Trocco

oversees all culinary developments at Gaucho Dubai and has brought his signature style to many of the palatable dishes. The Gaucho Dubai menu offers award-winning Argentine ceviches, traditional empanadas and renowned steak cuts from the finest free-range Argentine Angus Beef. Considered the best beef in the world, the Argentine steak cuts are 100 percent grass-fed and cooked in a traditionally Argentinian style – cut to order, grilled and turned only once to seal the juices and enhance the flavour. Location: DIFC / Try: Beef empanada Open: 11.30am to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 4227898

Ruth’s Chris Steak House has a 45-year heritage and has grown from a quaint neighbourhood steak house in New Orleans to an international player on the culinary scene

Ruth’s Chris Steak House While the name doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, your taste buds won’t hold it against you because this place has it all. Prime rib, lamb chops, lobster and pretty much every type of protein you’ve ever thought about eating are on the menu, but the pièce de résistance is the steaks. Oozing with all-American appeal, Ruth’s Chris Steak House has a 45-year heritage and has grown from a quaint neighbourhood steak house in New Orleans to an international player on the culinary scene. The Dubai chapter can be found at The H Hotel Dubai and boasts a delectable bill of fare. Start with the famous Voodoo Shrimp, lightly fried in Sriracha sauce. Hot and spicy with a fiery edge, this dish is ideal for kick-starting your meal. For the main course the Cowboy Ribeye is a fine choice and gives diners the opportunity to experience the restaurant’s unique broiling technique, which involves cooking the meat at 1,000 degrees Celsius. While the steak dishes steal the show, both the fresh lobster and the veal chop are appetising options. Those with a sweet tooth can look forward to mouthwatering desserts such as the decadent Chocolate Sin Cake and the bread and butter pudding. Location: The H Hotel / Try: Cowboy Ribeye / Open: Daily 6.30 to 11pm / Tel: 04 5018888

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s t e a k HOU SES / t a s t e

The Exchange Grill From the sleek monochrome décor to the polite nod of the maître d’, The Exchange Grill promises an experience to remember. The good news is that it delivers on every level. The welcoming staff, who are expert in everything from the texture of the burrata mozzarella to the wines that best complement the New York striploin, are on hand to assist in any manner you can think of and will even provide you with a napkin that matches your outfit. The mouthwatering menu is no less impressive and Indian-born head chef Jasheer Valiya certainly knows the way when it comes to crafting all the old favourites such as steak and chips. It sounds like no-nonsense food, but don’t be fooled because these dishes

have been revamped to give five-star appeal. The filet mignon and the prime ribeye are extremely impressive and are marvelously matched with tantalising side dishes such as the truffle and parmesan fries and the blue cheese mash potato. Slick palate cleansers also whet the appetite between courses and the sorbet served on top of an ice cube is particularly refreshing. Dessert lovers should prepare for indulgent treats such as pistachio and lemon crème brulée. While it might sound like an unlikely combination the sweet and sour blend of flavours exceeds expectation. Location: The Fairmont Dubai Try: New York striploin Open: Daily 7 to 11pm / Tel: 04 3325555

Hunters Room & Grill Located at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina next to Dubai Marina, this elegant restaurant ticks all the boxes when it comes to décor, service and menu. The eye-catching colour scheme, which blends mustard yellow with black and deep red, sets the scene and the delicious dishes such as beef tartar and carpaccio and USDA-certified Black Angus prime are unforgettably good. Begin with the calamari, which is served up with tasty Thai basil, peanut and sweet chilli or try the scallop and crab, which is delivered with carrot, ginger, grapefruit and mint. When it comes to the main course, something from the grill is a must. Striploin fans should make room for the 280g of Australian Rangers Valley beef, while tenderloin devotees will enjoy sinking their teeth into succulent cuts of USDA Pureland. For dessert, the black forest gateaux is a firm favourite. Similarly the service is excellent. Attentive without being intrusive, the waiters walk a fine line, but get the balance right. Understated, yet readily available, they are on hand to offer advice on the bill of fare when needed. Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Try: Chargrilled sirloin / Open: 7 to 10.30pm / Tel: 04 3994141

t a st e /stea k HO USES

A L S O T RY Terra Firma Steakhouse

Situated next to the Festival Marina on Dubai Creek, Terra Firma at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City serves up delicious steak dishes including the grade five Australian wagyu beef, which is served with chunky chips, garlic butter and mushroom sauce. Contact: 04 7011111 Toro Toro

Enjoy a feast of meaty delights at celebrity chef Richard Sandoval’s culinary spot, Toro Toro. Avid meat eaters will love the sumptuous churrasco, which is prepared with wagyu rib eye and New York steak. Contact: 04 3998888

With signature selections such as the Australian Beef Tomahawk and the Black Angus tenderloin, the only hardship about dining at The Rib Room is that you can’t eat everything on the menu

The Rib Room Seasoned carnivores can enjoy a feast of meaty delights at The Rib Room. Located on the ground floor of Jumeirah Emirates Towers, this sophisticated steak house serves succulent steaks as well as a variety of other dishes. With signature selections such as the Australian Beef Tomahawk and the Black Angus tenderloin, the only hardship about dining at The Rib Room is that you can’t eat everything on the menu, despite how much you might want to. However, a great starting point is the prawn cocktail served with Marie Rose Sauce. Yes, we know what you’re thinking. Didn’t this entrée disappear from menus more than a decade ago? Indeed, but it’s back with a vengeance and we can’t recommend it enough. Likewise the spicy fried calamari is filled with flavour and the foie gras scores 10 out of 10 for taste and texture. For the main course, the bison tenderloin, which weighs in at 200g, literally falls apart under the knife and is juicy and tender. The sweet selection is just as impressive with scrumptious creations such as the Peanut Butter Mousse Cake and the Warm Chocolate Liquid Fondant winning plaudits for being pleasure on a plate. Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers Try: T-Bone steak / Open: Daily 7 to 11.30pm / Tel: 04 3198088

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Flavour of arabia Daily fasting may be required of Muslims during the Holy Month of Ramadan, but as the sun sets, a lavish iftar feast of traditional Arabic cuisine awaits in homes and restaurants across the emirate

Anyone with a love of Arabic food is in for a treat this month as hundreds of lavish iftar buffets are served across the emirate in five-star restaurants. With hummus, grilled meats, freshly baked breads, soups and a whole host of other delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, the iftar is a true feast for the senses. Yet these full-scale, opulent affairs represent much more than a hearty repast. Iftar is the meal over which Muslims break their daily fast throughout the Islamic Holy Month of Ramadan. They seek to become closer to God by following a set of religious and spiritual observations and the fast (sawn) between sunrise and sunset is the most challenging obligation. After sunset, Muslims traditionally break the fast with a date and some milk before enjoying harira (Moroccan soup) containing lentils, coriander, tomatoes and dried figs. Soup is considered a key dish at iftar as it is easy to digest and gives almost instant relief from the day’s fasting. Many iftars serve one clear and one creamy soup such as vegetable, chicken, spinach or cauliflower. These are traditionally followed by cold mezze such as fattoush (salad mixed with fried pita bread), hummus and moutabel (a smoked aubergine dip). Then comes the hot mezze often comprising sambusek (fried pastry stuffed with cheese or meat and spices) and kibbeh (a mix of ground meat and bulgar wheat). Both are popular throughout the Middle East and a must for anyone in search of authentic regional cuisine. However, the highlight of any iftar is the main course. Ouzi, for example, which is lamb cooked in a broth and served on a bed of rice or lamb stuffed with spiced rice and baked, is often the pinnacle of the meal and many consider that iftar just wouldn’t be iftar without it. Ouzi is a delicious and flamboyant dish, but it’s also a traditional meal that conveys the warmth of home.

I FT A R/ t a s t e

1 Burj Al Arab 2 Grand Hyatt Dubai 3 & 4 Raffles Dubai

Treats, such as baklava (a rich, sweet pastry with chopped nuts and syrup or honey) and moghrabiya (panna cotta cooked with milk and pistachios) are wonderfully indulgent at the end of the evening's feast

Where to go

Drink to that

Grand Hyatt Dubai

Alcohol is forbidden in Islam so what refreshments can one expect? Rose-flavoured milk and kamardin, an apricot syrup, are traditional refreshments. So too is jallab, a syrupy drink made from dates, grape molasses and rose water. This sweet drink is usually served with crushed ice, floating pine nuts and raisins. Tamar hindi, a popular form of date juice, is another favourite. Fruits are the cornerstone of beverages during Ramadan. Look out for brightly coloured creations from blended smoothies to non-alcoholic cocktails. Those with a sweet tooth are catered for too as a range of exotic desserts is also served. Treats such as baklava (a rich, sweet pastry with chopped nuts and syrup or honey) and

Discover a magnificent choice of authentic Arabic cuisine and experience Arabian hospitality at its best at the Grand iftar buffet served in the exceptional Al Ameera Ballroom. Contact: 04 3171234 Hotel Pullman Dubai Mall of the Emirates

Get closer to friends and family this Ramadan at Sanabel where you can enjoy an interactive iftar buffet with live cooking stations featuring mixed grills, tandoor, hot mezzes and Arabic desserts. Contact: 04 4287888

moghrabiya (panna cotta cooked with milk and pistachios) are wonderfully indulgent at the end of the evening’s feast. No iftar is complete without trying basbousa (an almond paste cooked with rose flowers and decorated with almonds) together with regional favourite umm ali (a Middle Eastern version of the British bread and butter pudding). Ma’amoul (shortbread stuffed with date purée) is also popular and Emiratis often present the sweet to friends and family throughout Ramadan. Iftar is all about hospitality. As the evening progresses, the occasion traditionally becomes more festive as friends and family members arrive to socialise well into the night.

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the guide

shop / discover / experience / taste

malls / souks / markets / art galleries city tours / culture / museums adventure / family activities / sports hotel outlets and promotions / city dining

73 THE GUIDES OPENER_DXB_JULY12.indd 73

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SHOP From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Dubai is a shoppers' dream with luxury malls, atmospheric souks and cool markets

MALLS

THE WALK AT JUMEIRAH BEACH RESIDENCE

04 3900091

Though not a mall, this 1.7km-long shopping promenade, will eventually host nearly 300 retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue and Aiyanna of London.

Timings: Sun to Thu 8am

Dubai DUBAI MARINA MALL

04 4361000

Spread over four levels, the mall is home to 160 stores dedicated to fashion, jewellery and home furnishings with waterfront dining and a children’s area.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu and 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

IBN BATTUTA MALL

04 3621900

Inspired by the Arab traveller Ibn Battuta, the mall is home to designer shops, Woolworths and a multi-screen cinema complex.

to midnight. Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Dubai Marina Map reference: A1

LAMCY PLAZA

04 3359999

A mix of brands caters to the needs of the entire family with stores such as Bhs, Camaeiu, Dorothy Perkins and Pumpkin Patch.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10.30pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 MERCATO

04 3444161

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

A Renaissance-styled mall on Jumeirah Beach Road featuring a wide variety of brands such as Pandora, Armani Junior, Gant and Virgin Megastore. There is also a seven-screen cinema and a children's play area. Throughout the year Mercato also hosts various entertainment acts in the central area.

An elegant mall featuring 50 premium boutiques and fine-dining restaurants spread over two floors.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm. Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri and Sat noon to 10pm

04 5154000

Downtown Dubai 04 3198999

Metro: Emirates Towers Map reference: D1 BURJUMAN

OASIS CENTRE

This four-storey mall spans 134,000 sq m and houses 77 stores, including Carrefour Express and Fun City.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Ibn Battuta Map reference: A1

04 3520222

This mall is one for label lovers with Saks Fifth Avenue, Chanel, Dior, Versace, Kenzo, Ralph Lauren, Furla and more.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz or Business Bay Map reference: C2

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

Timings: Sat to Wed

PALM STRIP

04 4099000

10am to 11am. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B2

04 3622222

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 1pm to 10pm Metro: World Trade Centre Map reference: D1

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1

800 DUBAI MALL (382246255)

Find the world’s largest indoor ski slope nestled among 350 shops, children’s entertainment areas and a cinema.

GATE VILLAGE, DIFC

Located in the heart of Dubai International Financial Centre, Gate Village is home to a range of high-end stores.

DUBAI SUMMER SURPRISES Travellers who enjoy a touch of retail therapy will be pleased to hear that Dubai Summer Surprises – a monthlong retail extravaganza which started last month is in full swing until July 14. International fashion shows, millions of dirhams in giveaways, free family entertainment and generous discounts on everything from gadgets to gold jewellery are all part of the fun.

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04 3461462

Get some beach action before browsing the shops at Palm Strip – a two-storey open mall with designer shops and restaurants.

1. Jewellery shopping, The Dubai Mall 2. Khan Murjan 3. Ibn Battuta 4. The Dubai Mall 5. Versace watches at Samra Jewellery 6. Paspaley, The Dubai Mall

THE DUBAI MALL

The world’s largest shopping mall covering 550,000 sq m. In addition to over 1,000 shops, this mall is home to the world’s largest indoor gold souk, an Olympic-sized ice rink and aquarium.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 THE VILLAGE

04 3494444

A selection of boutiques such as S*uce and Candella, a high-end bridal store, a footwear and accessories shop and many top brands.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 2 to 10pm Metro: Financial Centre Map reference: D1 TIMES SQUARE

04 3418020

A one-stop shop for everything from lifestyle and home to fashion

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Quoz Map reference: C2 6

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t he gui d e / s hop

WAFI

04 3244555

This Egyptian-themed shopping haven has over 200 designer stores with 1,000 fashion brands including Miss Sixty, Chanel and Escada.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2

Shoppers survival

guide

800 6422

This largely residential mall is home to 350 brands including Zara, Massimo Dutti and Pull & Bear.

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: E3 SAHARA CENTRE

06 5316611

Dubai Festival City/Deira

Located in Sharjah, the mall is best for lifestyle shopping with sporting goods, toys, cosmetics, jewellery and home furnishings.

Timings: Daily 10am to

11pm. Fri 2 to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya

AL GHURAIR CITY

04 2225222

With 200 retail outlets, Dubai’s first mall offers a great range of value fabrics, alongside high-street favourites such as French Connection and Levi’s.

Souks

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 ARABIAN CENTRE

04 2845555

Home to more than 200 fashion, perfume, homefurnishing and electronic brands with shopping zones catering for men, women and children.

Located in Times Square shopping mall, this small market sells handcrafted jewellery, accessories and contemporary UAE art.

Timings: Noon to 7pm every

second Friday of the month Metro: First Gulf Bank Map reference: C2

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

04 2954486

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Deira City Centre Map reference: E2 DRAGONMART

04 4436200

Built in the shape of a dragon, this 1.2km mall is one of the largest trading hubs for Chinese products outside China.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 11pm Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: E3

Some of Dubai’s malls are very big. To save time, pick up a map at the entrance so you can find the stores you want to visit quickly. In most malls similar outlets are grouped together. For a quiet and leisurely shopping experience, visit Dubai’s malls throughout the week to avoid the weekend crowds.

04 2325444

When shopping in the traditional souks, be prepared to haggle. Vendors expect it.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: Emirates Map reference: E2

Before buying gold or visiting the Gold Souk, find out the current market price of gold from your hotel concierge to ensure that you do not pay over the odds.

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

Covering 204,000 sq m, this retail resort is home to 550 shops including Marks & Spencer. There is also a Community Arts Market.

DUBAI OUTLET MALL

04 4234666

A bargain hunter’s dream, covering 93,000 sq m of discount shopping 20 minutes out of town on the Dubai – Al Ain highway.

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Metro: No Metro nearby Map reference: D3

To show respect care should be taken not to wear anything too revealing. Women should cover shoulders and ensure hemlines cover the knee in the malls and souks. Comfortable, light clothing is recommended, but it’s wise to carry a wrap in the shopping malls as the air conditioning can be chilly.

04 3418020

9am to 10.30pm. Thu and Fri 9am to midnight Metro: Al Rashidiya Map reference: F3

Great for bargains, this popular mall features well-known brands such as Debenhams, Benetton, Shoemart and Next.

Shopping etiquette

ARTS & CRAFT SOUK

Timings: Sun to Wed

label stable

MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

Some malls specialise in particular kinds of shopping, for example, home furnishings, luxury labels or high-street brands. Decide what you want from your shopping trip and pick the right mall for you.

Gold Souk Comprising more than 300 retailers, this traditional souk is one of Dubai’s oldest trading areas and one of its biggest attractions.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 4 to 10pm. Fri 4 to 10pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 INDOOR GOLD SOUK

04 3627500

The world’s largest indoor gold souk, situated in The Dubai Mall, houses 220 gold and jewellery retailers and features a 25m x 13m atrium with multimedia shows.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 9pm. Thu to Sat 10am to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2 KHAN MURJAN

04 3244555

SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

04 3668888

Featuring 75 boutique shops and stalls overlooking the scenic waterways of the adjacent hotel complex.

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Metro: Mall of the Emirates Map reference: B1 Spice Souk With sacks full of colourful and aromatic spices, the spice souk is a feast for the senses.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Union Square Map reference: E1 Textile Souk Haggle hard and pick up yards of fabric including silk, satin, linen and polyester. Cotton is harder to find.

Timings: Daily 7am to noon and 5 to 7pm. Fri 5 to 7pm Metro: Khalid Bin Al Waleed Map reference: E1

Markets

Modelled on an ancient 14th century souk Khan Murjan has more than 150 stalls offering traditional arts and crafts.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Metro: Al Jafiliya Map reference: E2 SOUK AL BAHAR

04 3627011

Browse more than 100 boutiques before admiring views of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and The Dubai Fountain.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm. Fri 2pm to 10pm Metro: Burj Dubai Map reference: D2

COMMUNITY ARTS MARKET

800 33232

Open every first Friday of the month, this market in Dubai Festival City, brings together paintings and jewellery from artists and craftsmen.

Timings: Fri 10am to 8pm Map reference: E2

Alexander McQueen FA Armani BV, FA Balenciaga BV, MOE Boutique 1 MOE, TW Brioni FA, MOE Bugatti BJ, MOE, Wafi Bulgari BV, MOE, TDM Burberry BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Calvin Klein BJ, FA, Wafi Calvin Klein Underwear DCC, DFC, MOE Carolina Herrera FA, MOE Cartier BJ, BV, MOE, TDM Cerruti 1881 Wafi Chanel BJ, FA, Wafi Christian Lacroix BJ Christian Louboutin FA, MOE Chloe BV, FA Dior BJ, FA, MOE Dunhill DFC, TDM DKNY BJ, MOE Dolce & Gabbana BJ, FA, MOE Elie Saab FA, TDM Emporio Armani BV, MOE Ermenegildo Zegna BV, FA, MOE Escada BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Etoile La Boutique MOE, Wafi Façonnable MOE Fendi BJ, FA, MOE Giorgio Armani BV, MOE Givenchy FA Gucci BV, FA, MOE Hermès BJ, FA Hugo Boss BJ, FA, MOE Issey Miyake GV John Galliano MOE, Wafi Jimmy Choo BV, FA Kenzo BJ, FA Lanvin BV, FA Louis Vuitton BJ, FA, MOE Missoni FA, MOE Oscar de la Renta FA Pal Zileri BJ, FA, MCC, MOE, Wafi Ralph Lauren BJ, FA, MOE Roberto Cavalli FA, MOE, Wafi Rocco Barocco DMM, TDM, Wafi Salvatore Ferragamo BJ, FA, MOE Saks Fifth Avenue BJ Stella McCartney FA Tom Ford FA Valentino FA, BJ Versace BJ, FA, MOE, Wafi Vivienne Westwood GV Yves Saint Laurent BV, MOE BJ BurJuman (04 3520222) BV Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers (04 3198999) DCC Deira City Centre, (04 2954486) DFC Dubai Festival City, (04 2325444) DMM Dubai Marina Mall, (04 4361000) FA Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) GV Gate Village, DIFC (04 3600501) MCC Mirdif City Centre, (800 6422) MOE Mall of the Emirates (04 3414747) TDM The Dubai Mall (04 3627500) TW The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 3900091) Wafi Wafi Shopping Centre (04 3244555)

LISTINGS_SHOP_DXB JULY12.indd 75

25/06/2012 18:04

discover Dubai is one of the world’s most modern and dynamic destinations, with a fascinating heritage very much alive and waiting to be discovered

art galleries

GALLERY 76

showcase GALLERY

Showcases paintings, sculptures and photography from local emerging and international artists.

Located on Jumeirah

04 3444398

Timings: Sat to Wed

8.30am to 5.30pm; Thu, 9am to 4pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 GALLERY etemad

04 3468649 1X1 Art Gallery

04 3411287

Located in Al Quoz, this established gallery showcases international mixed media and is a big favourite with Dubai's budding art scene.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10.30am to 8.30pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ART SAWA

04 3408660

A showcase of regional contemporary art with a library and video lounge for artists and art enthusiasts to interact. Art Sawa recently opened a second gallery space in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 ARTSPACE

04 3230820

A contemporary gallery displaying the works of international and local talent in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: D1 AYYAM GALLERY

04 4392395

Exhibits striking artwork that features in museums and international collections.

Timings: Sun to Thu

10am to 6pm; Sat noon to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 GREEN ART GALLERY

04 3469305

04 3488797

Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, Showcase specialises in contemporary and traditional art and photography and showcases work from local and international artists.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C1 the Art source

04 2856972

Located in The Dubai Mall, this small art gallery and framing shop displays thoughtprovoking works by a range of Middle Eastern artists. 8am to 6pm. Thu 8am to 2pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D2

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

04 3477388

lawrie shabibi

Founded by the former head of sales of Christie’s Middle East and the former MD of Art Dubai, the gallery showcases works by regional artists.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm, Sat 11am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 MAJLIS GALLERY

04 3536233

This charming gallery with an idyllic courtyard features art by local and international artists.

the mojo gallery

Mojo focuses on contemporary exhibitions of original paintings, conceptual photography, digital media prints, illustrations, video art, installation pieces and sculptures.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri

Map reference: C2 the pavilion downtown dubai

04 4477025

A non-commercial contemporary art space where visitors can view and discuss local and international artists. The Pavillion includes two galleries, a restaurant and a shisha lounge.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Map reference: D2

marsam mattar

04 3411367

Representing some of the Arab world’s leading and emerging artists, Ayyam promotes contemporary Middle Eastern art.

to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: C2

Founded in 2003, this Arabic gallery is located off Mankhool Road in Bur Dubai.

Exhibitions by artists from the Middle East, with a schedule of events both in the gallery warehouse and outside locations.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm.

BOUTIQUE 1 ART GALLERY

04 4257888

This modern gallery on The Walk – Jumeirah Beach Residence has different exhibitions every month and showcases a variety of artworks by local artists.

Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm Map reference: A1 CARBON 12

04 3406016

With regular exhibitions this gallery features art by newly discovered artists and internationally recognised names.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 1pm and 5pm to 1pm Map reference: C2 CUADRO MUSEUM & FINE ART GALLERY

04 4250400

An area of 4,000 sq m dedicated to international contemporary art in the heart of Gate Village, DIFC.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm; Sat noon to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1

04 3988331

to 5pm. Closed Fri Map reference: E1 meem gallery

04 3477883

One of Dubai’s leading galleries specialising in Arab and Iranian art.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: B2 OPERA GALLERY

04 3230909

With operations all over the world, the gallery showcases the work of great masters as well as new talent.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 8pm. Sat 12 to 8pm. Closed Fri Map reference: D1 pro art gallery

04 3450900

Closed Fri

Map reference: C2 TOTAL ARTS

1. Bastakiya wind tower 2. Dhow sailing race 3. Skyline from Meydan 4. The Dhow restaurant, Le Méridien, Mina Seyahi 5. The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

04 3475050

Spanning two floors and 10,000 sq m, Total Art specialises in artists and art influenced by the culture of the Middle East.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 6pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 traffic

04 3470209

Specialising in contemporary art, Traffic houses two galleries.

Timings: Sat to Thu10am to 7pm. Closed Fri Map reference: C2 XVA GALLERY

04 3585117

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm; Fri 1pm to 9pm Map reference: D1

Timings: Sun to Thu 11am to 7pm. Closed Fri and Sat Map reference: E1

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB JULY12-V2.indd 76

THE THIRD LINE

One of Dubai’s newest art galleries, Pro Art sells some of the most carefully curated contemporary art in the global market.

Timings: Sat to Wed

The oldest gallery in Dubai, the Green Art Gallery showcases contemporary art with a focus on regional work.

04 3469906

Modern art on show in a 2,500 sq ft gallery in Gate Village in DIFC.

25/06/2012 16:53

dis c o ver/the guide

City tours

CREEK CRUISES

04 3939860

Choose four-star cuisine with lively entertainment, or a more tranquil option with five-star catering by the Taj Palace Hotel.

Camel facts

culture

Timings: 7.30pm to 10pm Guide price: From AED175 CREEKSIDE LEISURE

Air ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s most impressive landmarks in a helicopter. City shuttle services available.

Timings: Flights depart

from 10am to 4.45pm Guide price: City tour AED1,199 per person (25 minutes), private hour-long tours AED3,060 per person FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4440007

This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.

Timings: Flights depart

from 9am to 3pm Guide price: Prices start from AED500 (20 minutes), AED2,675 for up to six people SEAWINGS

04 3368406

Hire a dhow with dinner and transfers, butler service and unlimited beverages.

DUBAI COMMUNITY THEATRE & ARTS CENTRE (DUCTAC)

Timings: Daily boarding 8.30pm Guide price: AED200 dinner cruise

04 3414777

Located at Mall of the Emirates, this centre brings together a wide variety of performing and visual arts including drama, dance, opera, comedy and children’s shows.

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 3511117

Enjoy an evening cruise on a traditional dhow. Private charters are available.

Map reference: B2

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm.

MADINAT THEATRE, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150 for an evening dhow cruise

This 442-seat luxury venue hosts popular productions from drama to dance and comedy to film.

WONDERBUS

04 3595656

This amphibious bus departs from BurJuman before sailing up Dubai Creek for an hour-long cruise.

Map reference: B1 SHEIKH MOHAMMED CENTRE FOR CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING

Guide price: AED145

adults; AED95 children (3-11 years); AED450 family (two adults and two children)

04 3536666

Enjoy an Emirati breakfast or lunch and chat freely with local volunteers about the life and culture in the UAE.

04 8070708

Fly from Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa in the south west or Dubai Creek in the north east and explore the city from up high

Timings: Flights depart from 9am to 4pm every hour Guide price: From AED1,325 per person (40 minutes)

Land JUMEIRAH MOSQUE TOUR

04 3536666

Visitors should cover arms and legs and women must wear headscarves.

Water

Timings: Sat, Sun, Tue and Thu for one hour from 10am Guide price: AED10 Map reference: D1

AL BOOM TOURIST VILLAGE

al farooq omar bin al khattab mosque

Traditional Arabian dhows take guests on cruises each evening, with a banquet of food included in the price.

Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Umm Suqeim is one of only a few mosques in the city open to non-Muslims. Tours run three times a week.

04 3243000

Timings: Daily 8 to 10pm and 10.30pm to 12.30am. Boarding at 8pm Guide price: AED160 Map reference: E2 AL MANSOUR DHOW

04 2057033

This five-star dhow from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, offers international cuisine, alcoholic beverages and live entertainment.

Timings: Daily boarding at 8pm. Cruise from 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide Price: AED185 ART MARINE

04 4068825

Cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab and Dubai Creek with Art Marine chartered yachts.

Timings: From 7am into the night Guide price: From AED750 per hour

04 3944448

Timings: Sat to Thur 10.30am. Closed Fri Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: C1 THE BIG BUS COMPANY

04 3407709

If your stay in the emirate is short you might not have time to take in the sights by yourself. For an organised tour, hop aboard a double-decker bus for fantastic city views from the open-air top deck.

Timings: Tours depart every 20 minutes from any of the 20 stops Guide price: Day tour – AED220 adults, AED100 children, AED540 family. Night tour – AED100 adults, AED75 children, AED275 family (two adults and two children)

Grand designs

04 3666546

Contrary to popular belief, a camel does not store water in its hump. It is in fact a mound of fatty tissue from which the animal draws energy when food is scarce. A camel can last five to seven days with little or no food and water and can lose a quarter of its body weight without impairing its physical abilities. Although camels can withstand severe dehydration, a large animal can drink as much as 100 litres (21 gallons) in 10 minutes. Such an amount would kill another mammal, but the camel’s unique metabolism enables it to store the water in its bloodstream. Camel’s milk is much more nutritious than cow’s milk. It is lower in fat and lactose and higher in potassium, iron and vitamin C. Drunk fresh, the warm frothy liquid is heavy and sweet. The Bedouin name for the one-hump dromedary or Arabian camel is ‘Ata Allah’ which translates to ‘God’s gift’.

Timings: Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm, Sat 9am to 1pm Guide price: Breakfast AED60, lunch AED70. Reservations essential Map reference: E1

Museums

Intricate henna designs are legendary in this region and around the world. Archaeological evidence of henna at Neolithic sites, circa 9000BCE, as well as paintings on pottery, fabric and paper, show elaborate designs worn by women at weddings and festivals. Today, henna is used much more frequently and it has become popular for visitors to indulge in the ancient art, with many henna artists practising their skills at historical tourist stops, such as the Heritage Village and in Bastakiya. Hands and feet are the most common body parts decorated and depending on how often the area gets wet, the design can last up to a couple of weeks.

DUBAI MUSEUM

04 3531862

Dubai’s most comprehensive museum features a rich collection of aerial photographs of 'old' Dubai, an assortment of multimedia exhibits and a wide variety of artefacts. This museum, located inside the impressive Al Fahidi Fort, provides visitors with an in-depth history of the emirate.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 8.30pm, Fri 2.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children (under 5 years free) Map reference: E1 AL AHMADIYA SCHOOL & HERITAGE HOUSE

04 2260286

Learn about the education system of yesteryear at Al Ahmadiya School & Heritage House. Located in Deira in the north east, visit Dubai’s first school and traditional house, which is home to fascinating life-size dioramas.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 7.30pm, Friday 2.30 to 7.30pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 DUBAI MUNICIPALITY MUSEUM

04 2253312

Located next to the spice souk, the museum contains rare manuscripts of royal and administrative decrees and photographs and provide a glimpse of times gone by. This is definitely one for culture vultures and history buffs to try out.

Timings: Sat to Thu 7.30am to 3pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1

HERITAGE & DIVING VILLAGE

04 3937151

This museum, where Emiratis prepare local food and perform dances to Arabic music, provides a glimpse of a bygone era, when pearl trading and fishing were the emirate's main source of revenue.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 10pm, Fri 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge Map reference: E1 MAJLIS AL GHORFAT UM-AL-SHEIF

04 3946343

A peaceful majlis with antique interior ornaments in Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum’s former summer residence.

Timings: Daily 8.30am to 1.30pm and 3.30 to 8.30pm. Fri 3.30 to 8.30pm Guide price: AED1 adults, children under six years free Map reference: C1

THE HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

04 3937139

Wander around this restored house and see fascinating paraphernalia including old photographs and currency of Dubai.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8am to 8.30pm, Friday 3.30 to 9.30pm Guide price: AED2 adults, AED1 children (under eight years free) Map reference: E1

Know the law Only non-Muslims are allowed to consume alcohol and this must be in licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs or private venues. Do not consume alcohol if driving. Dancing is only allowed in the privacy of your hotel room or at licensed clubs. Avoid addressing women in public or taking their photograph without their permission. Offensive language, spitting and aggressive hand gestures must be avoided. Married couples may hold hands in public, but kissing and hugging is not allowed.

LISTINGS_DISCOVER_DXB JULY12.indd 78

24/06/2012 19:15

experience With a vast desert, spectacular coastline and world-class sports facilities, Dubai is full of fun-packed tours and activities

Attractions

FIRST YACHT

04 3754148/050 6550313

Range of options from speedboat rides to refined electric boat cruises.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: From AED200 OASIS PALM TOURISM

Cruising Individual hotels and tour operators can also organise pleasure cruises on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2959477

Charter an exclusive yacht and sail past modern icons including Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and The World islands.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From

AED2,600 per boat ART MARINE

04 4068825

Set sail from Jumeirah Beach Hotel and cruise around The World islands, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Creek.

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED750 per hour BATEAUX DUBAI

04 3994994

Sail along the Creek on Bateaux Dubai and enjoy a welcome beverage, canapés and a four-course gourmet dinner.

Timings: Daily boarding

at 7.45pm, departing at 8.30pm. Returns 11pm Guide price: AED330 CLUB MINA

04 2629993/050 7548466 Take a two-hour cruise along Dubai Creek on a traditional dhow.

Timings: From 8.30 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

Timings: From 7am Guide price: AED2,400 per 24

hours for up to seven people THE YELLOW BOATS

800 8044

Adrenaline-pumping tours around Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab hotel in bright yellow inflatable crafts.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Adults from

AED80. Children from AED60 ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

Enjoy a dinner dhow cruise along Dubai Marina. Inclusive of buffet, drinks and live entertainment.

Timings: Call to arrange Guide price: From AED275

per adult and AED90 per child VENUS FLOATING RESTAURANT

04 3572200

Desert tours Call individual tour operators for times and prices ARABIAN ADVENTURES

Take a four-hour catamaran cruise along Dubai’s coastline and enjoy a barbecue lunch as well as snorkelling.

Dine among the dunes, explore the wadis, go desert driving, sand boarding or camel riding.

EL MUNDO

050 5517406

Take out a 60-foot catamaran as near or as far as you like (within reason)

Timings: From 2:30pm Guide price: Adults AED250, children AED210

NET TOURS DUBAI

04 6028888

Enjoy sand boarding, camel riding and shisha (hubbly bubbly) as well as belly dancing and a barbecue dinner.

DREAMDAYS

Timings: Every Saturday 8pm to midnight Guide price: AED275

Journey to a Bedouin campsite, ride a camel, smoke shisha together with a range of other desert-based activities.

See world-famous offshore projects on yachts ranging from 36-foot to 180-foot.

04 3511117

800 2080

04 3357676

OASIS PALM TOURISM

04 2573084

Timings: Dinner cruise at 8.30pm. Call for details on daytime cruises Guide price: AED195 per person. Call for details on daytime cruises

Timings: 8 to 10.30pm Guide price: AED150

LAMA DESERT TOURS & CRUISES

SUMMERTIME MARINE

Timings: From 6am to 6pm Guide price:From AED3,500

A range of experiences are available including sailing on a traditional dhow and private charters.

Overnight desert camping, quad biking and a Liwa expedition are all available.

Half-day and full-day desert safaris are available as well as overnight camping.

Hop aboard the Arabian dhow for a one-hour day cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise.

DANAT DUBAI CRUISES

04 2340812

per person

04 3993333

As well as fishing trips, Club Mina offers all kinds of exciting or relaxing cruising options.

EXTREME ADVENTURE DUBAI

04 3034888

ARABIAN DESERT TOURS

04 2682880

From a Hummer safari taking in an authentic Bedouin camp, to a trek through the Hajar Mountains. DESERT RANGERS TOURS & ADVENTURE SPORTS

04 3572233

A range of exciting desertbased activities are available such as camel trekking, desert driving and rock climbing.

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JULY12.indd 80

04 2629993/050 7548466

OFF ROAD ADVENTURES

050 6532504

Offers excursions including dinner at a Bedouin camp, overnight camping and trips to Liwa. ORIENT TOURS

04 2828238

Expect innovative desert trips, tours between Dubai and Muscat and adventurous expeditions.

1. Aerial view of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi 2. Yellow Boat offshore tours 3. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall 4. Desert buggy driving 5. Dune bashing

PLANET TRAVEL & TOURS

04 2822199

Operates throughout Dubai and the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi. ROYAL ARABIAN TOURS

04 2999339

Drive over the dunes before heading to a traditional campsite. TRAVCO

04 3366643

Desert tours include an offroad adventure, a dune dinner and an overnight safari.

Flying ALPHA TOURS

04 2949888

Discover Dubai from the sky and marvel at a long list of world-renowned landmarks.

Timings: From 10am to 4.30pm Guide price: From AED1,199

per person for 25 minutes. Private hour-long tours are priced at AED3,060 per person

EMIRATES FLYING SCHOOL

04 2995155

Learn how to fly or top up your hours at the only approved flying school in Dubai.

Timings: From 9am to 5pm Guide price: AED1,000 for first-time flyers trial flight, plus AED100 for airport pass FALCON AVIATION SERVICES

02 4448866

This Abu Dhabi-based company also operates flights over Dubai’s key landmarks.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details 5

24/06/2012 19:16

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

FUJAIRAH AVIATION ACADEMY

09 2224747

Take pleasure flights over the neighbouring emirate of Fujairah or enjoy a flying lesson from the fully equipped aviation centre.

Timings: From 8am Guide Price: Fun flying

lessons AED960

Paintballing

(see Sports) DUBAI AUTODROME LASER TAG

04 4361400/04 4361422

Hunt down your adversaries in a mock medieval castle with artificial fog, moody lighting and a pumping soundtrack.

Enjoy a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the new developments around the city including the Burj Khalifa.

Timings: Thu to Sat 9.30am to 11.30pm, weekdays by appointment Guide price: From AED160 with go-karting

Timings: From 9am to 4pm Guide price: AED1,325 per

PURSUIT GAMES AT WONDERLAND

SEAWINGS

04 8832999

person for 40 minutes

04 3244755/050 6514583

Take a 15-minute tour over Dubai.

Go head to head with paintballing opponents in the heart of Dubai city at the Wonderland entertainment complex.

Timings: From 10am Guide price: From AED999

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED80 for two

ULTIMATE CHARTER

04 3254975/050 1002477

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

hours, includes 100 paintballs, masks, coveralls and paintball gun. Call for bookings

Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise.

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

04 2854949

Timings: Before sunrise Guide price: AED995 per adult. AED850 for children between 5 and 12

Karting (see Sports)

Shooting

06 5383224/050 2032288

Enjoy fast-paced action with state-of-the-art semiautomatic paintball guns and the latest antifog visor masks. Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED85 for two hours on weekdays (AED90 Thu to Sat), includes 100 paintballs, unlimited gas propellant and coveralls

Skydiving IFLYDUBAI

04 2316292

Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping from a plane at this indoor centre in Dubai Festival City.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm. Thu and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED195. Children AED145 SKYDIVE DUBAI

050 1533222

Based in Dubai Marina behind the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, this centre offers tandem skydiving for thrillseeking tourists.

Swimming with sharks DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

04 4485200

Swimming with dolphins (see Marine adventures)

Timing: Call to arrange time Guide price: AED825 for

800 LEISURE (5347873)

04 4297949

Amusements & attractions BURJ KHALIFA OBSERVATION DECK (AT THE TOP)

04 3244555

A brilliant light and sound show featuring Egyptianthemed graphics and a storyline depicting The Return of the Pharaohs.

Timings: Daily 9.30pm at Wafi Guide price: Free of charge FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

02 4968001/ ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Ride rollercoasters, race in an F1 simulator and feel the force of being propelled 62m into the air.

Timings: Tue to Sun 11am

Skydive Dubai For the ultimate adrenaline-fuelled experience Skydive Dubai’s aircraft enables you to jump from higher altitudes than most skydiving centres, which allows for more time in freefall (pictured).

Timings: Daily 10am to midnight Guide price: Rides vary in price. Buy a AED50 credit voucher and get an extra AED10 free, AED100 – AED40 free, AED200 – AED80 free PEEKABOO! CREATIVE PLAY

DUBAI LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW

Flying colours Take to the skies in a majestic hot air balloon and watch the sun rise over the desert. This calm and serene experience is a wonderful way to see the emirate away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

A fun and interactive family-focused amusement centre in Deira City Centre and Mall of the Emirates.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm. Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adults AED100, children (4 to 12 years) AED75. Children aged three or under go free. Immediate entry AED400

Plane sailing Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city as you take off from and land on water in a thrilling seaplane safari. Marvel at awe-inspiring landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and The World islands.

MAGIC PLANET

non-certified divers (includes short diving course), AED625 for certified divers

Admire unparalleled views of Dubai in this spectacular tour through the tallest building in the world.

UP, UP AND AWAY

Features games, tasks and facilities to test children's limits, help them discover hidden talents and develop skills.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 8pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED130 for one adult and one child

800 28843867

Go for some serious altitude with these high-velocity activities

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Swim among 33,000 aquatic animals including sharks, giant groupers and stingrays in The Dubai Mall’s 10-million-litre tank.

Timings: From 2pm to

dusk Sun to Thu. From 11am to dusk Fri and Sat. Guide price: Adults AED1,750. Cash only

COOL IT

LITTLE EXPLORERS

to 8pm. Closed Mon Guide price: AED225 for visitors over 1.5m tall, AED165 for visitors below 1.5m. Premium tickets available KIDZANIA

04 4485222

A 'mini city' in which kids can role play over 80 adult professions including pilots, doctors and firefighters.

Timings: Sun to Wed 9am to

10pm,Thu 9am to midnight, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: AED 95 for children aged two to three, AED130 for four to 16-year-olds.

When you need to chill out during Dubai’s hot summer months, go sub-zero with these cooling adventures Dubai Ice Rink Whether you’re practicing pirouettes or learning a basic glide, the Olympic-sized ice rink at The Dubai Mall provides a chilledout way to pass a hot summer afternoon. Location: The Dubai Mall Contact: 04 448511 Ski Dubai The first indoor ski slope in the region caters for all ages and abilities, with green, blue, red and black runs, as well as a variety of jumps and raps. If that sounds too hardcore, head to the Snow Park, or get up close and personal with gentoo and king penguins, in the resort’s unique penguin enclosure. Location: Mall of the Emirates Contact: 04 4094000 Chillout For the ultimate icy experience book a table at Chillout, a bar entirely carved from ice. All the necessary clothing is provided, including thermal coats, gloves and shoes and then you’re free to enjoy dinner and mocktails in this effortlessly cool haunt. Location: Times Square Contact: 800 CHILLOUT (24455688)

Peekaboo! Creative Play offers fun activities for 0 to seven-yearolds such as cookery classes, face painting and board games.

Timings: Mall of the Emirates, 10am to 9pm. Ibn Battuta Mall, 10am to 9pm. The Village Mall, 9am to 8pm Guide price: From AED30 per hour SEGA REPUBLIC

04 4488484

Explore five zones and 150 amusement games at the first Sega Republic indoor theme park in the region.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 1am Guide price: Entry is free of charge but AED10 credit is required on each entrant’s play card. Power Pass AED140, Platinum Pass AED220 THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN

800 382246255

From the foot of the world's tallest building, watch the world’s tallest dancing fountain shoot jets of water 150 metres into the air in time to music.

Timings: Sat to Thu 1am, 1.30pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm. Friday 1pm, 2pm, 6pm and every 30 minutes thereafter until 11pm Guide price: Free of charge WONDERLAND

04 3243222

Creekside family entertainment village is a great day out for the entire family.

Timings: Daily Splashland 10am to 6pm, theme park 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED105 adults, AED95 children

Arts & crafts CAFÉ CERAMIQUE

04 3447331/04 3410144

Create your own piece of pottery art at Café Ceramic.

Timings: Daily 9am to 10pm to midnight Guide price: ceramic prices vary from AED45 to AED200

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Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time.

Get Hooke d*

POPPING â&#x20AC;˘ JIGGING â&#x20AC;˘ BIG GAME FISHING

www.noboundariesoman.com

Adventure fishing lodges : Southern Oman e: ed@noboundariesoman.com w: noboundariesoman.com t: +968 9 5951810

www.facebook.com/NoBoundariesOman

*We promote catch & release and encourage conservation of the Oman coastline

EXPE R IENCE/THE GUIDE

JAM JAR

04 3417303

DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 8pm, Fri 2 to 8pm. Closed Sun Guide price: Prices start at AED85 per canvas

Marvel at the diverse collection of marine life or swim with the sharks at The Dubai Mall. There are also glass-bottom boat rides for the less brave and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Head to Jam Jar for a threehour painting session.

Birdwatching NATIONAL FALCON CENTRE

04 3380201

Learn all about the national bird of prey at the falconry centre just outside Meydan Racetrack.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 1pm and 4 to 10pm Guide price: Free of charge SNOW PENGUINS AT SKI DUBAI Visitors have a rare opportunity to interact with these remarkable birds in a oneof-a-kind encounter.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED175 for adults; AED150 children

04 3241222/04 3243222

A fun family water park near the Creek featuring slides, twisters, a lazy river, water cannons and children’s activity pool.

Timings: Daily from 10am to 6pm Guide price: AED105 adults; AED95 children

Timings: Sun to Wed

10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Adult tunnel entry AED25, child AED20; tunnel and zoo AED50

WILD WADI

04 3484444

A central location next to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, along with fun-packed rides, make this waterpark a hit with adults and children of all ages.

DUBAI DOLPHINARIUM

04 3369775

Learn more about dolphins, seals and other marine life at this fully air-conditioned dolphinarium.

Timings: Daily from 10am to 7pm Guide price: AED215 adults; AED175 children under 1.1m, children under two go free

Timings: Shows Mon to Thu

11am and 6pm. Fri and Sat 11am, 3pm and 6pm. Closed Sun Guide price: From AED100 adults; AED50 children

Golf

THE LOST CHAMBERS

04 4260000

Discover a maze of underwater halls and tunnels, with 65,000 marine animals swimming at the Ambassador Lagoon at Atlantis, The Palm.

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

04 6010111

(7,303 yards, par-72)

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for

This championship course was designed by Robert Trent Jones II.

CHILDREN’S CITY

Waterparks

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED875 for 18 holes

An interactive science and cultural centre.

AQUA PLAY

04 3340808

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 8.30pm, Fri 3 to pm Guide price: AED15 adults, AED10 children 2 to 15 years and AED40 for a family ticket ENCOUNTER ZONE

04 3247747

Wafi’s adventure playground for kids. Look out for 'Lunarland', 'Galatica' and the skate park.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED45 for five hours, AED35 for two hour. AED35 for Lunarland (under eight years) two-hour pass

6. Wild Wadi 7. At the Top, Burj Khalifa 8. Snow penguins, Ski Dubai 9. Dubai Desert Classic golf at Emirates Golf Club

OUTSIDE DUBAI

SPLASHLAND

adults, AED70 for children aged three to eight

Edutainment

04 4485200

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Aimed at children from the age of two to eight, Dubai's latest waterpark is both fun and educational.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Friday 9am to midnight and Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: From AED5 AQUAVENTURE

04 4260000

Ride the rapid and shoot down the fastest free-fall slide in the Middle East into a shark-filled lagoon. Located at the Atlantis, The Palm.

Ice skating

Timings: Daily from 10am to sunset Guide price: AED210 for adults, AED165 for children under 1.2 metres

(see Sports)

DREAMLAND AQUA PARK

06 7681888

Marine adventures DOLPHIN BAY

04 4261030

For the ultimate aquatic experience that you'll never forget, meet Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins under the supervision of marine mammal specialists at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai.

Timings: Open 10am to sunset. Guide price: Individual rate AED790 with access to Aquaventure and private beach

Perfect for families and only an hour’s drive from Dubai, this is a large fun-filled park has a number of entertaining rides.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am

to 6pm. Fri, Sat and public holidays the park is open for families only from 10am to 7pm (no all-male groups) Guide price: AED135 adults; AED85 children ICELAND WATER PARK

800 WOWRAK (969725)

A sprawling ice-themed water park in the middle of the desert.

Timings: Daily 10am to 7pm Guide price: Above 1.2m

Struggling to find a tee time or looking for an alternative challenge? The UAE has other excellent courses to feed your need. The Abu Dhabi Golf Club (02 5588990) is managed by Troon Golf and located just ten minutes from the airport. This superb, 27-hole championship course has excellent facilities and a distinctive clubhouse shaped like a falcon. The course itself is pleasantly tough with many water hazards to negotiate. Also in the capital is the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (02 5578000), designed by Gary Player and the Gulf’s only ocean course. Heading north, Tower Links (07 2278555) in Ras Al Khaimah is a tricky 18-hole course that meanders through a mangrove swamp and has the Hajar Mountains as a backdrop. The back nine holes are also floodlit, meaning you can make the most of your journey.

ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

04 3663000

(6,531 yards, par-72) A popular course with both visitors and locals, designed by Ian Baker-Finch.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED555, Fri and Sat AED660 for 18 holes DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2956000

(6,800 yards, par-71) The superbly manicured fairways feature date and palm trees, lakes and the Creek on at least four holes.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED695 for 18 holes EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

04 3802222

Majlis Course:

(7,211 yards, par-72)

Faldo Course:

(6,916 yards, par-73)

The Par Three:

1,239 yards, par-27) The club is home to the annual Dubai Desert Classic tournament.

Green fees: Majlis Course

daily AED995 for 18 holes. Faldo Course Sun to Thu AED595 and Fri to Sat AED595 for 18 holes

AED150. Below 1.2m AED100

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JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

(3,299 yards, par-36, nine holes)

(7,396 yards, par-72)

04 8145555

This pretty nine-hole course features wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which roam the fairways.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED160

for 9 holes and AED240 for 18 holes. Fri and Sat AED195 for 9 holes and AED320 for 18 holes. Twilight rate is AED125 from approximately 5.10pm Jumeirah Golf Estates

04 3752222

Earth Course:

(6,473 yards, par-72) Fire Course: (6,507 yards, par-72) One of Dubai’s most prestigious golfing destinations, host of last year’s Dubai World Championship.

Green fees: Sun to Thu AED495 and Fri and Sat AED795 for 18 holes

04 3905600

One of the most luxurious golf clubs in Dubai, the Colin Montgomeriedesigned course features lakes, landscaped gardens and 81 large bunkers.

Green fees: Daily AED825 for 18 holes THE ELS CLUB

04 4251010

(7,538 yards, par-72, 18 holes) Set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, this links-style course offers a challenging round.

Green fees: Daily

AED795 for 18 holes

Sports

Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix November World-class speed demons put pedal to the metal in Abu Dhabi. The Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens December As the opening event of the IRB Sevens many of rugby’s powerhouse nations, including South Africa, New Zealand and England, fly in to compete. Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon January This yearly running race begins and ends at Downtown Dubai. Head to Beach Road to cheer on the pavement pounders. Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships January/February Some of the most talented players on the planet battle it out at The Aviation Club's centre court. Omega Dubai Desert Classic February Golf stars unite on the fairways of the Emirates Golf Club and compete for the muchcoveted cup.

PADI and BSAC approved instruction is available at all levels. Hotels will organise dives on request. Freediving courses are also available.

Guide price: Two-day PADI course for supervised dives up to 12 metres, AED1,850. Pleasure dives from AED400

Fishing Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request AL WASL CRUISING & FISHING

04 2950516

Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf.

11 12

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED875 ART MARINE

04 4068825

Charter a vessel for six people or more and take to the Arabian Gulf’s turquoise waters.

SPECTATOR SPORTS Don't fancy working up a sweat? Relax at one of these high-profile spectator events

Diving

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED750

per hour onwards

Archery HATTA FORT HOTEL

04 8523211

Think you’re Robin Hood? Put your archery skills to the test while taking in the scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.

Timings:8am to 6pm Guide price: Sun to Thu

AED50 for 30 minutes and Fri AED50 for 30 minutes JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

04 8836555

The 5,000-square-metre soft sand archery range can safely accommodate up to 12 people in a group at the same time.

Timings:10am to 9pm Guide price: AED100 for 30 minutes with unlimited shots

Climbing WAFI PHARAOH'S CLUB

04 3240000

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

04 2054646

Up to six people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price:AED2,000 for four hours. Longer trips are available as required first yacht

04 3754148/050 6550313 Up to seven people can enjoy a day of fishing.

Timings: 6am onwards Guide price:AED3,400 for four hours. JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA – CLUB JOUMANA Take a group fishing trip and make the catch of the day. Timings: Mon and Wed 3 to 6.30pm Guide price: AED1,750 for four hours on the boat. no boundaries

050 2514988

Book in for seafishing in southern Oman and stay the night in a lodge.

For an exciting and challenging rock-face experience perfect for fit and energetic types, why not head to the only state-of-the-art textured indoor climbing wall in the UAE?

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED4,400 a

Timings: Sat to Thu 6.30am

Up to seven people can be accommodated on private fishing trips.

to 10pm, Fri 9am to 9pm Guide price: AED60 for one hour with an instructor THE WALL

04 3065061

It's a challenge, but at more than 15 metres high (that's nearly 50 feet), this is the UAE's highest climbing wall.

Timings: Sat to Thu 2

to 10pm. Closed Sun Guide price: AED60 per hour without an instructor. AED75 with an instructor

10. Dubai Rugby Sevens 11. Rock climbing 12. Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai Festival City 13. Sea fishing 14. Scuba diving

04 8145555

day for up to four people. AED440 to stay in a lodge

SUMMERTIME MARINE

04 2573084

Timings: From 6am to 10am and midday to 4pm Guide price: AED2,500 per hour ULTIMATE CHARTER

050 1002477

Catch your own lunch on a deep-sea fishing trip.

Timings: From 7am Guide price: From AED1,800 for four hours. No fish, no pay guarantee

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expe r ience/THE GUIDE

Horseracing The season is November to March. For more information, visit www.dubairacingclub.com

Horseriding DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, ARABIAN RANCHES

04 3618111

From show jumping and dressage to desert hacking and stable tours, the club offers a wide range of equestrian experiences.

Timings: Desert hack 6 to 8am or 5 to 7pm Guide price: AED300 EMIRATES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

050 5537986/ 050 5587656

A British Horse Societyapproved riding and training centre for all abilities. Learn show jumping, dressage and eventing.

Timings: Lessons from

7 to 11am 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED145 for adult group lesson. AED250 for private lesson JEBEL ALI GOLF RESORT & SPA

04 8836000

Enjoy the natural desert surrounds in a resort setting, or take lessons under the guidance of qualified riding instructors.

Timings: Tue to Sun 7am

to noon and 4 to 7pm Guide price: AED150 for a 30-minute lesson, AED200 for a one-hour outdoor ride (experienced riders only)

EQUINE EMPIRE The Dubai World Cup takes sport in the emirate to a whole new level each March. Oozing glitz and glamour, the event is the richest horse race on the planet with a prize purse of AED37 million (US$10 million). Along with the Dubai World Cup, there are five further nailbiting thoroughbred group races and the full action totals more than AED95 million (US$26 million) in prize money. The 2009 World Cup was the last to be held at Nad Al Sheba racecourse as the sport moved in January 2010 to Meydan, a new state-of-the-art development spanning seven million square metres and featuring a 60,000-capacity, world-class grandstand.

Motorsports

THE DESERT RANCH

04 8327171

This out-of-town equestrian centre offers riding lessons and desert hacks as well as the chance to meet and learn about camels.

DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by world champion Rod 'Hot Rod' Fuller at the Yas Drag Racing Centre.

Timings: 9am to 12noon Guide price: Desert

riding from AED200

Timings: See website

for availability Guide price: AED600

Ice skating

FORMULA ONE

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

AL NASR LEISURELAND

Experience the thrill of Formula One, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater.

04 3371234

Cool off and burn a few calories skating around the Olympic-sized ice rink or try your hand at 10-pin bowling.

Timings: See website

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED35 for two

for availability Guide price: AED1,200 3000 Yas Experience

hours of ice skating. Includes park entrance and skate hire DUBAI ICE RINK This Olympic-sized ice skating rink is situated at The Dubai Mall and is perfect for skaters of all skill levels.

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm; Thu to Sat, 10am to 11.45pm. Guide price: AED50 for two hours

Timings: Sun and Tue 10am to 9.30pm; Mon, Wed and Sat 10am to 9.30pm Guide price: Sun to Wed AED35; Thu to Sat AED40 including skate hire

Karting 04 3678744

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Call for details

The centre at Jebel Ali provides karting for everyone over the age of eight on its one-kilometre track just outside Dubai.

Timings: Daily 3 to 10pm Guide price: AED100 for 30 minutes

Mini golf 04 8523221

04 3402408

Enjoy a guided canoeing tour through Khor Kalba nature reserve while spotting birds and other sea life along the way.

Timings: Call for details Guide price: AED30 for mini golf and fun course. Hotel entry fee redeemable against hotel facilities

LISTINGS_EXPERIENCE_DXB JULY12.indd 86

The fortress-style architecture opens to an indoor and outdoor shooting academy and floodlit clay-shooting ranges.

Timings: Winter – Wed to Mon 1 to 10pm; summer – Wed to Mon 3pm to midnight Guide price: Outdoor AED220 for 25 shots; indoor AED140

06 5487777

One of the UAE’s biggest shooting clubs.

Skiing SKI DUBAI

800 LEISURE (5347873)

Chill out at the indoor snow park and ski slope, in Mall of the Emirates.

Watersports

DESERT RANGERS

Fun, cross country golf course and driving range with scenic views of the Hajar Mountains.

04 8836555

Timings: Call for details Guide price: Free of charge. Call for season information

Sailing

HATTA FORT HOTEL

JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB

02 5629050

Located on the Dubai to Abu Dhabi highway, watch polo while enjoying a meal in the clubhouse. Nonmembers are welcome.

Guide price: AED6,400

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm; Thu 10am to midnight; Fr 9am to midnight; Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: AED120 for entry to Snow Park for adults, AED110 for children; AED180 for adults and AED150 for children for two hours on the ski slope

GHANTOOT POLO CLUB

050 5592131

Enjoy the ultimate holiday experience when you set sail on a luxury yacht ranging in size from 50ft to 188ft.

Timings: 12 noon to 10pm Guide price: AED185 for .22, AED190 for 9mm and AED235 for .38. Sessions last for 40 minutes

The facility includes two polo fields, a riding school and equestrian centre.

EMIRATES KART CENTRE

04 2573084

Guide price: AED300 per person for a day’s trip. See Listings for tour operators

04 3618111

Timings: Call for details Guide price: From AED110

Guide price: Call for details SUMMERTIME MARINE

SHARJAH GOLF & SHOOTING CLUB

DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB

The Formula One-standard track on the outskirts of Dubai boasts an outdoor and an air-conditioned kartdrome with hi-tech machines.

Take your pick from five boats that can be chartered for a day on the water or go one step further and learn to sail one yourself.

Tour operators offer biking trips through the Hajar Mountains, with gear provided. Trips include pickup and lunch on request.

Polo

DUBAI AUTODROME

050 5517280

Shooting

Mountainbiking 15. Ski Dubai 16. Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi 17. Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club 18. Wake boarding

Guide price: AED220 DUSAIL

Drive open-wheel, singleseat race cars, two-seat open sports cars and topof-the-range race-spec sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.

04 2096000

This ice skating rink at the Hyatt Regency Dubai offers professional coaching and fun for the whole family.

Learn how to sail or improve your sailing skills with twoday courses or day training in the beautiful waters of the Arabian Gulf.

for four hours

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Private tuition starts at AED1,500 for private tuition

GALLERIA ICE RINK

04 3941669

YAS Racing School

02 6599393 or www.yasmarinacircuit.ae

04 4485111

DUBAI OFFSHORE SAILING CLUB

Guide price: AED300 per person including transport

Hotels can organise watersports on request. Some have their own facilities. See Taste section for hotel telephone numbers

Guide price:

Banana rides AED150 for 20 minutes Parasailing AED250 per ride Waterskiing AED150 for 20 minutes Wakeboarding AED150 for 20 minutes Windsurfing AED170 per hour

25/06/2012 17:01

Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com

Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.

July 2012 | issue 95

T H E

l u x u r y

F I V E - S T A r

dubai duba b i editio ba edition

V I S I T O r

M A G A Z I N E

T H E

l u x u r y

V I S I T O r

M A G A Z I N E

F I V E - S T A r

V I S I T O r

M A G A ZMaYI 2011 N |Eissue 81

dubai edition du

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

l u x u r y V I S I T O r M A G A Z I N E

M A G A Z I N E

V I S I T O r

THE DEFINITIVE FIVE-STAR VISITOR MAGAZINE

F I V E - S T A r

V I S I T O r

F I V E - S T A r

M A G A Z I N E

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T H E

With compliments of

Licensed by internationaL Media Production Zone

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June 2012 | issue 94

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FEbRuaRY 2012 | issuE 90

l u x u dubai r y edition F I V E - S T A r

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June 2012 | issue 94

March 2012 | issue 91

T H E

FEbRuaRY RY 2012 | issuE 90

dubai edition

DXB MAIN COVER MAY11.indd 1

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Taste Superb restaurants, chic cocktail bars and hip nightclubs make Dubai a stylish and sophisticated city for fine food and drink

Hotel outlets & promotions

Al Bustan Rotana

04 2820000 Garhoud

Make your way to Choices every Friday for Indian night and indulge in the traditional Indian buffet for only AED179 per person. Benihana – Japanese Blue Elephant– Thai Choices – International Mawal – Arabic Rodeo Grill – Steakhouse

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

04 3034222 Desert

An exclusive desert retreat, the restaurant and bars cater to guests only. Al Diwaan – Arabic and Mediterranean

Al Manzil Hotel

04 4285888

Downtown Dubai This Downtown property offers a choice of dining options with all outlets linked to a central Arabian courtyard where shisha (hubbly bubbly) is served in the evening. Conservatory – International The Courtyard Restaurant – Arabic Nezesaussi – Sports bar

Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites

04 3211111

Downtown Dubai Celebrate Ramadan with a delicious international iftar buffet at Pergolas. Served daily from sunset to 8pm, AED159 buys unlimited food with select beverages. Al Mawal – Arabic Allegra – Nightclub Double Decker – English Latino House Restaurant & Bar – South American Pergolas – International Zaika Restaurant – Indian

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim For a delicious selection of Thai food book a table at Pai Thai. Prices start at AED80 a dish. Alternatively, head to one of Dubai's most romantic restaurants, Pierchic. Al Fayrooz Lounge – Afternoon tea Al Hambra – Spanish Arboretum – International Khaymat Al Bahar – Arabic Koubba Bar – Cocktail bar MJ'S – Steakhouse Pai Thai – Thai Pierchic – Seafood

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB JULY12.indd 88

Amwaj Rotana

04 4282000

Dubai Marina Brandish your chopsticks at the all-you-can-eat dinner at Benihana, from AED199. The promotion runs every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday from 6 to 11.30pm. Benihana – Japanese Horizon – International Rosso – Italian

Arabian Ranches Hotel & Golf Club

04 3663000

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

04 8096100 Desert

This charming desert retreat offers good food, most notably at Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant, where iftar will be served from 7 to 8pm daily, for AED180 per person. Visitors should also try the delicious pizza at renowned Italian restaurant Pizzeria Le Dune and the signature cocktails at Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge.

An elegant, out-of-town venue with fine food served at the signature Ranches Restaurant. The club is particularly popular among the emirate's expatriates.

Al Forsan – International Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant – Arabic Al Sarab Rooftop Lounge – Cocktail bar Al Shurouq – Rooftop terrace Masala – Indian Pizzeria Le Dune – Italian Ya Hala – Arabic tea bar

Ranches Restaurant – International Birdies – Sports lounge

Burj Al Arab

Armani Hotel Dubai

Jumeirah

Dubai

04 8883888

Downtown Dubai Experience the essence of Ramadan and celebrate iftar at Armani/Mediterraneo from sunset to 9pm. Prices start at AED250 per person. Armani/Amal – Indian Armani/Hashi – Japanese Armani/Mediterraneo – Mediterranean Armani/Peck – Italian Armani/Privé – Lounge/nightclub Armani/Ristorante – Italian fine dining

Asiana hotel

04 2387777 Deira

Located in the city's historical district, this chic business hotel draws upon the influences of the Far East with Korean, Japanese, Chinese and Filipino restaurants available. There is also a seafood restaurant. Hanabi – Japanese Jade – Chinese Lamesa – Filipino Seaworld – Seafood

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

04 4260000

The Palm Jumeirah This landmark property, which is home to Nobu Matsuhisa's signature restaurant, is a genuine destination resort with a range of five-star outlets. For those with a hankering for Arabic cuisine, book a table at Levantine. Alternatively, if your taste buds are craving traditional French fare, Rostang is in a league of its own. Barazura – Cocktail bar Kaleidoscope – International Levantine – Arabic Nasimi – International N'Dulge – Nightclub Nobu – Japanese Ossiano – Seafood Plato's – Afternoon tea Ronda Locatelli – Italian Rostang – French Saffron – Asian Seafire – Steakhouse The Burger Joint – American diner

1. Nobu Restaurant – Atlantis The Palm 2. Benihana – Al Bastan Rotana 3. Pierchic seafood – Al Quasr Madinat Jumeirah 4. Ossiano seafood – Atlantis The Palm 5. Crowne Plaza

04 3017777

Head to Al Iwan for a superb Arabic iftar buffet including cold mezzeh and dates on each table. Iftar is served from 6 to 7.45pm and prices start at AED290 per person. Al Iwan – Arabic Al Mahara – European Al Muntaha – International Bab al Yam – International Juna Lounge – Cocktail bar Junsui – Far Eastern Majlis Al Bahar – Mediterranean Sahn Eddar – Afternoon tea Skyview Bar – Cocktail bar

Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community

04 8852222

Green Community A relaxing out-of-town property with an excellent buffet at Pine Grill. Aquamarine – Pool bar Cucina – Italian Pine Grill – International The Bar – Casual bar

Crowne Plaza Dubai

04 3311111

Sheikh Zayed Road One of Dubai's most timehonoured hotels, Crowne Plaza Dubai is home to a variety of restaurants and bars.

Al Dana – International Al Fresco – Italian Al Tannour – Arabic Harvester’s Pub – English Oscar’s Vine Society – Wine bar Sakura – Japanese Trader Vic's – Polynesian Wagamama – Far Eastern Western Steakhouse – Steakhouse Zinc – Nightclub

Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira

04 2625555 Deira

Honour the Holy Month at Spice Island. Every day from sunset to 8.30pm a delicious iftar buffet will be served. Aquarium Lounge – Afternoon tea Harry's Place – American Spice Island – International

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

Dinner Cruises Why not enjoy a dinner with a difference by jumping aboard one of the floating restaurants that cruise along Dubai’s waters. The hugely popular Bateaux Dubai has been operating for more than five years on historic Dubai Creek, serving freshly prepared gourmet cuisine and complemented by an extensive selection of fine wines and beverages. Add to that the live entertainment and the unobstructed views of the sights from all seats onboard and it is sure to be a memorable experience. Alternatively, enjoy a buffet, plus drinks and live entertainment aboard a traditional dhow with Ultimate Charter, which navigates around Dubai Marina. Venus Floating Restaurant departs from around the same area, near West Marina.

food for thought

Habtoor Grand beach Resort & Spa

04 3995000

Dubai Marina This popular property occupies one of Dubai's most enchanting beachside locations. In addition to The Grand Grill, which is a popular steak house with visitors and residents alike, Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa is also home to Arabic restaruant, Al Basha. Al Basha – Arabic Al Dhiyafa – International Al Majlis – Afternoon tea Fish Bazaar – Seafood Thai Restaurant Luciano’s – Italian Summer Place Chinese Restaurant Lounge & Bar – Chinese Salamar – Garden lounge The Grand Grill – Steak house The White Lounge – Lounge The Underground Pub – English

Hatta Fort Hotel Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

Dubai Festival City

Al Aqah Beach

04 7012222

Flamenco your way into the weekend at Zaytoun's Latin Live night. With hot and cold tapas on the menu, as well as barbecue and live churros stations, you can enjoy all the sizzling flavours of South America. Prices start at AED185 per person. Belgian Beer Café – European Mazar – Afternoon tea Zaytoun – International

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa

04 3461111 Jumeirah

Visit this multi-faceted dining and entertainment complex located in the heart of Jumeirah. Hip lounges and stylish restaurants attract a late-night crowd. Al Khayma – Arabic Al Qasr – Lebanese Boudoir – French/nightclub Capanna Nuova – Italian Flooka – Mediterranean Loco – Tex-Mex Lounge Bar – Afternoon tea Malecon – Cuban Serai – Arabic nightclub Sho-Cho – Japanese Taverna – International Thai Bistro – Thai

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

04 3194000

Dubai Marina This harbour-side hotel is is known for its mesmerising views of Dubai Marina and sky-high bar, The Observatory, which is located on the 52nd floor. Az.u.r – Mediterranean Counter Culture – International The Observatory – International

Dusit Thani Dubai

04 3433333

Sheikh Zayed Road This distinctive property close to The Dubai Mall is home to Benjarong, one of the best Thai restaurants in the city. Benjarong – Thai Dusit Delicatessen – Deli gourmet My Bar – Bar Pax – Italian The Californian – International

09 2449888

For those who like to explore, this out-of-town option is popular as a weekend getaway with Dubai residents. Fujairah is a neighbouring emirate on the east coast. Al Falaj – Lobby lounge Mozaique – International Waves – International

Grand Hyatt Dubai

04 3171234 Oud Metha

Peppercrab is the only Singaporean-inspired restaurant in the city. Andiamo! – Italian Awtar – Lebanese Cooz – Jazz bar iZ – Indian Manhattan Grill – American Panini – Italian deli and café Peppercrab – Singaporean Sushi – Japanese The Market Café – International Wox – Vietnamese

Grand Millennium Dubai

04 4299999 Al Barsha

Every Monday enjoy Italian night at Dante. Prices start at AED169 per person. Doors open at 7pm. Atrium – International Belgian Beer Café – European Crystal Bar – Bar Dante – Italian Toshi – Asian

Grosvenor House, Dubai

04 3998888

Dubai Marina A variety of celebrity chefs, including Indian sensation Vineet Bhatia, British culinary whizz Gary Rhodes and Mexican gourmet Richard Sandoval, operate restaurants in this award-winning five-star hotel. Bar 44 – Champagne bar Buddha Bar – Far Eastern Embassy Dubai – European Indego by Vineet – Indian Leaves – Afternoon tea Ottomans – Turkish Rhodes Mezzanine – British Sidhartha Lounge – Asian Sloane's – International The Gallery – Bar Toro Toro – South American

04 8099333 Hatta

Enjoy movies under the stars with your loved ones at Hatta Fort Hotel every Thursday and Friday. Sip on choice tipples, relax and float in the outdoor temperaturecontrolled pool, while watching your favourite films. Café Gazebo – International Jeema Restaurant – International

Hilton Dubai Creek

04 2271111 Deira

For European food at its best, check out Table9 by Nick and Scott and enjoy a wide selection of delicious dishes. Glasshouse – International Issimo Bar & Lounge – Sports bar Table9 by Nick and Scott – European

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

04 3991111

Dubai Marina Catch the latest sports tournament at Studio One and enjoy bottled beer for AED25. Axis Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea BiCE Skybar – Bar Oceana – International Pachanga – Latin America Studio One – Sports bar Wavebreaker – Beach bar

During Ramadan, from sunset onwards nearly all hotels will be holding iftar, the meal over which the day's fast is broken. This is your chance to sample authentic Arabic cuisine including hummus, moutabel, grilled meats, ouzi and a range of Middle Eastern deserts. Alcohol is forbidden in Islam and many licensed hotels do not serve alcohol during the Holy Month. Instead, expect a variety of Ramadan beverages including rose-flavoured milk and kamardin (apricot syrup). hyatt regency dubai

04 2091234 Deira

Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan at Al Dawaar. From sunset to 8.30pm diners can treat themselves to the ultimate iftar at Dubai's only revolving restaurant. For AED160 per person enjoy an extensive buffet and soft drinks. Al Dawaar – International Carpenter's Bar – Sports bar Focaccia – Italian Hibiki – Karaoke lounge Miyako – Japanese Shahrzad – Arabic The Kitchen – International

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

Ibis World Trade Centre dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road

Zabeel

04 3234333

For indulgent Mexican cuisine, visit The Gem Garden every Tuesday night for all-youcan-eat Mexican. Doors open at 7pm and the dinner is priced at AED95 per person including select beverages. Last orders at at 11pm. Gharana – Indian Mojito – Cocktails The Gem Garden – International The Q – Sports bar The Royal Budha – Thai

hotel pullman dubai mall of the emirates

04 4287888

Sheikh Zayed Road Enjoy iftar at Sanabel. A lively Iftar buffet with live-cooking stations, featuring mixed grills, tandoor, hot mezzes and much more is available for AED120 per person (inclusive of water and fresh juices). Sanabel – International Vantage – Cocktail bar

04 3324444

Cubo Pasta is a well-liked lunch spot for workers and delegates from the neighbouring World Trade Centre. Be sure to book ahead. Cubo Pasta – Italian

Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel

04 4440000

Ibn Battuta Mall

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

04 7011111

Dubai Festival City Anise is the star of the show during Ramadan, delivering its usual first-class service and excellence, coupled with the finest spread of traditional Arabic fare, mixed with international cuisine. Iftar will be served daily from sunset to 9.30pm for AED170 per person. Other restaurants to look out for include Reflet par Pierre Gagnaire, which is run by acclaimed French chef Pierre Gagnaire, and Terra Firma Steakhouse, where carnivores can indulge in dishes such as Australian wagyu beef. Anise – International Bistro Madeleine – French Eclipse – Champagne bar Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire – French Terra Firma Steakhouse – Steak house

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

04 8145555 Jebel Ali

In honour of Ramadan a spectacular iftar spread will be served nightly from 6.30 to 8.30pm in Al Bahou, the hotel's majestic Arabic-inspired atrium venue and the talented team of chefs will serve up an extensive selection of authentic Arabic food and beverages, presented buffet style. Prices start at AED150 per person.

For a plentiful spread of German, Austrian and Swiss dishes, visit La Fontana for Alpenfest every Tuesday evening from 7 to 11pm. For AED190 (excluding drinks) you can enjoy a warm and welcoming buffet and a second person dines for free. Alternatively,head to La Traviata and indulge in tasty Italian dishes.

Chor Bazaar – Indian Diablo – Nightclub Mistral – Mediterranean Moroc – Lounge bar and terrace Shanghai Chic – Chinese Sicilia – Sicilian

Ibn Majed – International La Fontana – International La Traviata – Italian Shooters – American Signatures – French White Orchid – Far Eastern

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

04 3480000 Jumeirah

For indoor dining, enjoy a five-course Arabic menu at Al Khayal daily from 7pm to midnight. Prices start at AED340 per person. Alternatively, visit Beachcombers for traditional Far Eastern fare, La Parrilla for authentic Argentinean food or La Veranda for southern Italian delights. 360° – Terrace bar Al Khayal – Lebanese Beachcombers – Far Eastern Carnevale – Italian Der Keller – German Dhow & Anchor – English Go West – American La Parrilla – Argentinean Latitude – International La Veranda – Italian Marina – Seafood Palm Court – Lobby lounge Uptown – Bar

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

04 3300000 DIFC

Enjoy a traditional iftar buffet at Al Nafoorah daily from sunset to 9pm. Prices start at AED180 which includes a selection of non-alcoholic beverages. Otherwise head to Mosaico for exquisite Mediterranean fare or The Rib Room for sumptuous steak dishes. Al Nafoorah – Arabic ET Sushi – Japanese Hakkasan – Chinese Harry Ghatto’s – Karaoke lounge The Ivy – International Mosaico – Mediterranean The Agency – Wine bar The Noodle House – Far Eastern The Rib Room – Steak house Tokyo@thetowers – Japanese Vu’s – European

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Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

MeliÂ Dubai

The Palm Jumeirah

Port Rashid

Voi serves up a sumptuous selection of Vietnamese dishes and French-born chef Jean Hurstell, who has been at the helm for just over a year, has done a marvellous job of crafting the extensive menu.

We can expect big things from this newly opened business hotel situated in Dubai's historic quarter. Famed chefs Marco Pierre White and Sanjeev Kapoor are at the helm of two of the three restaurants.

Al Nafoorah – Lebanese Amala – Indian C Club – Cigar lounge Imperium – French Lalezar – Turkish Plaj – Beachside international dining Sultan’s Lounge – Afternoon tea Voda bar – Vodka bar Voi – French Vietnamese

Azalya – International Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor – Indian Titanic by Marco Pierre White – European

04 4530000

Jumeira Rotana Hotel

04 3455888 Satwa

6. Park Hyatt Dubai 7. Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa 8. Ossigeno, Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa 9. Dining at Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa 10. Icho, Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai

For a selection of hearty American dishes, book a table at Boston Bar. Lovers of hearty German food can get their fix at Brauhaus. Boston Bar – American Brauhaus – German Five Dining – International

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

04 2624444 Deira

Enjoy cheese fondue and raclette for AED99 every Tuesday night at Hofbräuhaus. Bamboo Lagoon – Far Eastern Champions – American Cucina – Italian Hofbräuhaus – German JW's Steakhouse – American The Market Place – International

le royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa

04 3995555

Dubai Marina This sprawling five-star resort is home to an extensive selection of bars and restaurants. Ossigeno is well-known for its southern Italian menu, while Maya, which is run by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, serves up a selection of authentic Mexican dishes. If you're looking for Arabic cuisine, book a table at Al Khaima.

Al Khaima – Arabic Al Murjan – Afternoon tea Brasserie – International Fusion – Far Eastern Maya – Mexican Mi Vida – Mediterranean/Seafood Ossigeno – Italian Pizzeria – Italian Rhodes Twenty10 – Steakhouse Seabreeze – Sports bar

Media One Hotel

04 4271000

Dubai Media City For a delicious Mediterranean feast book a table at The Med. Café M – Coffee shop The Z:ONE Bar & Lounge – Bar The MED – Mediterranean

Media Rotana Dubai

04 4350000 Al Barsha

Go Japanese on Monday nights at Channels. An unlimited buffet of Japanese specialities including tempura and sushi is on offer. Prices start at AED145 per person (excluding alcohol). Channels – International Prego's – Italian Nelson’s Bar – Pub Rare – Nightclub The Terrace – Outdoor bar

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04 3868111

Metropolitan Hotel Deira

04 2959171 Deira

The Dublin Arms delivers a selection of authentic Irish dishes and beverages in a relaxed setting. Al Riqa Restaurant – International Dublin Arms – Irish

Millennium plaza Hotel dubai

04 3877777

Sheikh Zayed Road Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai is a strategically located business hotel in the heart of the city. Drop into La Plaza for a spot of Mediteranean fare. La Plaza – Mediteranean Metro! – International Infinity – Pool bar

Mina A' Salam, Madinat Jumeirah

04 3668888

Umm Suqeim The Wharf serves big-bone, sticky beef ribs with mashed potatoes or fries and the restaurant’s signature sticky sauce for AED110 per person. The deal is available every Tuesday from 7pm. Afterwards, head to Bahri Bar where you can enjoy an al fresco tipple on the bar's stunningly attractive wraparound terrace, which provides perfect views of the Burj Al Arab. Al Muna – International Al Samar Lounge – Afternoon tea Bahri Bar – Bar Shimmers – Beachside dining The Wharf – British Zheng He's – Chinese

Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

04 3366000 Bur Dubai

Savour great Italian food every Tuesday at The Fountain from 7 to 10.30pm from AED85 per person. Alternatively, head to Chutney's for a delicious curry or Fakhreldine for an array of tantalising Arabic dishes. Chutney's – Indian Fakhreldine – Arabic Pulse – Nightclub Rooftop Terrace – Far Eastern Somerset’s – English The Fountain – International

Mövenpick Hotel Deira

04 4440111 Deira

Located in the heart of Dubai’s historic quarter, this five-star property offers three food and beverage outlets. Head to Jigsaw for a wide selection of international dishes. Jigsaw – International Spirits Bar – Bar Wok-In Bar – Asian-themed bar

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

04 4498888

Jumeirah Beach Residence Tuck into a quintessentially English Sunday roast at The Talk. Freshly carved joints, live grill stations and classic Brit desserts such as apple crumble and rhubarb and custard are all part of the fun. Running from 6.30 to 11pm, prices start at AED165 per person. For a taste of Mexico drop by on Thursday nights and sample the finest Mexican cuisine, from sizzling seafood, to spicy grills and wholesome regional dishes, washed down with Corona Mexican beer. The Talk – International West Beach Bistro – Sports bar

Novotel World Trade Centre

04 3320000

Trade Centre Blue Bar offers an impressive range of Belgian beers. Blue Bar – Belgian bar Entre Nous – International

Oasis Beach Tower

04 3994444

Jumeirah Beach Residence World-champion jockey and three-time Dubai World Cup winner, Frankie Dettori, launched his Italian restauant Frankie's at this beachside hotel in 2007 and it is still a firm favourite with visitors and residents alike. Frankie’s – Italian Mai Tai – Cocktail bar Thyme Restaurant – Mediterranean Wagamama – Noodle house

One&Only Royal Mirage

04 3999999 Al Sufouh

One of Dubai's most elegant properties with sprawling lawns and sophisticated outlets. Beach Bar & Grill – Seafood Celebrities – International Eau Zone – Far Eastern Kasbar – Nightclub Nina – International Olives – International The Jetty – Beach Bar The Roof Top Lounge – Bar The Rotisserie – International Tagine – Moroccan

BOOKING ADVICE

During Ramadan, some hotels may alter their dining hours. It's best to call ahead to double check or ask your concierge for advice.

Sunset to sunrise Daily fasting from sunrise to sunset is required of Muslims throughout the Holy Month of Ramadan. Traditionally, those partaking break their fast with an Iftar feast at sunset, enjoying a lavish spread of soups, salads, meats and desserts. Following the iftar, a sohour is laid out. This is the meal served in the early hours, just before sunrise and is usually the last time a Muslim eats or drinks again that day until the sun sets the following evening.

25/06/2012 15:36

One&Only The Palm, dubai

04 4401010

The Palm Jumeirah Serving traditional French dishes with a modern twist, Stay by Yannick Alléno is fast becoming one of the city's most popular haunts. Be sure to try the lobster 'fricassée'.

tastes of the orient

101 – Mediterranean Stay by Yannick Alléno – French Zest – Oriental and Middle Eastern

04 6021234 Garhoud

Gather over an evening meal with friends and family and celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan at Esca. The traditional iftar buffet is priced at AED160 per person and is served from sunset to 11.30pm. Esca – Italian

Radisson Blu hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

04 2227171 Deira

Tuck into authentic Japanese cuisine at Sumibiya or try traditional English food at The Pub. Steak aficionados can enjoy Palm Grill, while seafood enthusiasts have Fish Market to look forward to. Boulvar – International Fish Market – Seafood Ku-Bu – Cocktail Bar La Moda – Italian Marbles – Lobby bar Minato – Japanese Palm Grill – Steakhouse Shabestan – Iranian Sumibiya – Asian The China Club – Chinese The Pub – English Up On The 10th – Jazz Bar Yum – Noodle bar

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Downtown

04 4502000

Downtown Dubai Located on the upper floors of a mixed-use building close to the thriving Business Bay district, this new property has excellent views of the Burj Khalifa. Infiniti Bar & Terrace – Bar Lemon Pepper – International

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

04 3669111

Dubai Media City To celebrate the month of Ramadan Chef's House welcomes you with a buffet of delicious Arabian dishes, with lively cooking stations. Doors open at sunset. Prices start at AED99 per person. Certo – Italian Chef's House – International Icon Bar & Lounge – Sports Bar Tamanya Terrace – Cocktail Bar

Dubai Marina

This modern 51-storey glass tower, located near the Dubai World Trade Centre, offers excellent Japanese cuisine at Icho. Alterntively enjoy iftar at Celsius, which is served everyday throughout Ramadan from sunset to 8pm and is priced at AED130 per person.

04 3248888 Oud Metha

Head to Azur every Friday for a classic British roast. Comprising roasted meats, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing and gravy, the lunch is priced at AED200.

Cafe Arabesque – Arabic The Lounge – Arabic The Terrace – Bar The Thai Kitchen – Thai Traiteur – French

Downtown Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road

Raffles Dubai

Enjoy sohour at The Terrace. A full Ramadan sohour à la carte menu is available from 8pm to 2am, with cold and hot mezze, main courses, desserts and traditional beverages available. Prices start at AED65.

04 4286888

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers

04 3080000

Al Muhallab – Arabic seafood Celsius – All-day dining Icho – Japanese Indothai – Asian

Park Hyatt Dubai

Qamardeen Hotel

radisson royal hotel dubai

Nobu From legendary seared black cod served with miso sauce to the yellowtail topped with jalapeno, the Japanese menu at Nobu is as imaginative as it is varied. Location: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Contact: 04 4262626 Chi'Zen Specialising in high-end Cantonese cuisine and overlooking Dubai Festival City marina, this outlet is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for Chinese food. Location: Dubai Festival City Contact: 04 2329077 Icho This chic Japanese eatery boasts impressive views of Sheikh Zayed Road, but while the scenery is stunning, nothing compares to the menu. Location: Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Contact: 04 3080000 Thiptara Meaning 'magic at the water' in Thai, Thiptara lives up to its name. Floorto-ceiling windows provide idyllic views while tasty Thai dishes steal the show. Location: The Palace – The Old Town Contact: 04 4287888 Peppercrab Famed as the city's only Singaporean restauant, Peppercrab serves up dishes so delicious you'll be required to pop on a bib in order to enjoy them. Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai Contact: 04 3171234

Azur – International Crossroads – Cocktail Bar Fire & Ice – Steakhouse People By Crystal – Nightclub Raffles Salon – Afternoon Tea Red Lounge – Chinese Lounge The Noble House – Chinese

04 3995533

Visit Peacock for reliable Chinese cuisine and impeccable service. Meanwhile, Ciao Ristorante serves traditional Italian food and Palm Garden dishes up international cuisine. Al Hadiqa Restaurant & Tent – Lebanese Ciao Ristorante – Italian Moods Bar – Bar Palm Garden – International Peacock – Chinese

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

04 4484848

Dubai Marina Rich flavours, unique décor and a relaxing ambience come together at AOC during the Holy Month of Ramadan. With fattoush salad, mixed grill platters and ouzi lamb, this delectable feast is available for AED160 per person, from sunset to 10.30pm.

Rixos the palm dubai

AOC – French Plantation – Afternoon tea Rococo – Italian The Hub – Sports bar

Palm Jumeirah

Taj Palace Hotel

04 4575555

This sprawling property, which is situated on the East Crescent of Palm Jumeirah, is home to Chef's Steak House Restaurant, which has become a firm favourite with protein lovers. A la Turca – International Chef's Steak House Restaurant – Steak House Roccha Mediterranean Restaurant – Italian

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

04 3230111

Sheikh Zayed Road/DIFC The world’s tallest hotel features creative dishes from around the world at Petals. Café Rose – Afternoon tea Petals – International

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

04 3438888

Sheikh Zayed Road One of Dubai's long-established hotels, Shangri-La Hotel Dubai is home to Shang Palace. Serving authentic Cantonese cuisine this attractively decorated haunt is famed for serving up a sumptuous selection of dishes. Amwaj – Seafood Balcony Bar – Bar Dunes Café – International Hoi An – Vietnamese/French Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Marrakech – Moroccan Shang Palace – Chinese

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

04 2281111 Deira

Head to Creekside for the seafood buffet. A rich assortment of local fish and seafood prepared in a variety of ways is available for AED175 per person (excluding alcohol). Ashiana – Indian Chelsea Arms – English pub Creekside – Japanese Vivaldi – Italian

04 2232222 Deira

Handi is the place to go for fine Indian thali accompanied by live music. This established hotel is located in one of Dubai’s oldest districts and does not serve alcohol. Handi – Indian Le Rendezvous – International Sakura – Japanese Topkapi – Arabic

The Address Downtown Dubai

staisycover

d rience expe p o h s &taste

04 4368888

Downtown Dubai During the Holy Month of Ramadan break your fast at Fazaris. Doors open from sunset and guests can expect a delicious blend of flavours including Asian, India and Mediterranean as well as all the Middle Eastern classics such as kibbeh, kofta and kebabs. Prices start at AED180 per person, which includes an assortment of soft drinks, teas and coffees. Calabar – Latin lounge Fazaris – International Hukama – Chinese Neos – Cocktail bar Risala – Afternoon tea Zeta – Seafood

fast talk

Throughout Ramadan you may hear a number of words and phrases repeated. 'Ramadan mubarak' and 'Ramadan kareem' are congratulatory greetings used when the start of the Holy Month is announced. At the end of Ramadan, people wish each other 'Eid mubarak'. This marks the beginning of the Eid Al Fitr festival and celebrates the completion of the month of fasting.

Your five-star concierge is now available online at www.conciergedubai.com Find everything you need to book and plan your next stay.

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T A ST E/THE GUIDE

The Address Dubai Mall

04 4388888

Downtown Dubai For a traditional Arabic iftar, head to Na3Na3 (pronouced 'Nah-Nah'). Savour classic Arabic specialities from sunset to 10.30pm every day during Ramadan. A selection of international dishes are also available. Prices start at AED170 per persons (including soft drinks). Otherwise, book a table at Ember Grill and Lounge and enjoy a diverse selection of international dishes. Ember Grill and Lounge – International Karat – Afternoon tea Na3Na3 – Arabic

The Address Dubai Marina

04 4238888

Dubai Marina Cheese connoisseurs should head to Mazina on Thursday nights for an unlimited cheese buffet. Doors open at 6.30 and prices start at AED130 per person. For mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine, book a table at Shades. Blends – Lounge bar Kambaa – Lobby lounge Mazina – International Shades – Mediterranean

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

04 3905600

Emirates Hills

Hummus: Well-known and loved even beyond the Middle East, this Arabic dip or spread is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with ground sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic.

11. Rivington Grill, Souk Al Bahar 12. Pisces, Souk Madinat Jumeirah 13. Zuma, DIFC

The Fairmont Dubai

Indulge in unlimited sushi and sake every Wednesday at Spectrum on One from 7 to 9pm. Prices start at AED150 per person.

Bridges – Bar Cascades – International Cin Cin – Wine bar Nine – Arabic lounge Spectrum on One – International The Cigar Bar – Cigar lounge The Exchange Grill – Steakhouse The Sushi Café – Japanese

The h dubai

Fattoush: This Levantine salad is made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread and mixed with lettuce, cucumber, onion and other vegetables.

04 4287888

Sambusek: Small, triangular pastry pies filled with cheese, meat or spinach. Ouzi: This popular baked lamb and spiced rice dish is a favourite during Ramadan, the Islamic Holy Month. Umm Ali: Similar to bread and butter pudding served in the west, this favourite Arabic dessert contains milk, pastry and nuts, and is a staple dish in many buffets.

Downtown Dubai Celebrate the solidarity of the Holy Month of Ramadan at Ewaan. Indulge in an eclectic selection of traditional Arabian delicacies matched with a blend or rich traditions and exemplary cuisines.

Chameleon Bar – Cocktail bar The Junction – International

villa rotana

04 3216111

Sheikh Zayed Road Moka Café serves an excellent daily international buffet. Moka Café – All-day dining

Cit y dining

04 3994000

Dubai Marina For delicious afternoon tea, book a table at Lobby Lounge. Daily from 2 to 6pm, enjoy a selection of tasty pastries, sumptuous sandwiches and tantalising teas. Prices start at AED125 per person and for AED235 guests can enjoy a glass of Champagne. Amaseena – Arabic Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Library Bar – Aperitifs/nightcaps Splendido – Italian

CAVALLI CLUB

04 3329260

The Fairmont Dubai

Centimetro

04 3666121

Relax at this Italian lounge and enjoy bruschetta sold in 10cm denominations. The stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, which can be had from the restaurant's terrace are an added bonus. Chi’Zen

04 2329077, 04 3549288 Dubai Festival City and Mall of the Emirates

First-class Cantonese cuisine is served while you enjoy the amazing views over Festival Marina. Pisces

04 3666730

Souk Madinat Jumeirah With panoramic views of the Gulf, this fine-dining seafood restaurant is not to be missed. Rivington Grill

04 4230903

Souk Al Bahar Inspired by the Londonbased chapter, steak, fish and fine wine are the order of the day at this British grill. The Mango Tree

04 4267313

Souk Al Bahar Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine served in a dark, moody setting, while overlooking The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.

Al Bayt – Arabic Asado – Argentinean Ewaan – Arabic FAI – Asian bar Lobby Lounge – Afternoon tea Thiptara – Thai

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

Authentic Italian cuisine served in a familyfriendly environment .

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

The Junction combines Arabian spirit with international style and offers casual buffet-style dining with tasty pizza, pasta, Asian specialities and more.

The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall and Mirdif City Centre

Towers Rotana Dubai

Deira

Farriers offers a relaxed international dining experience.

carluccio's

A chic lounge that includes a contemporary Italian restaurant, sushi bar and Champagne bar.

04 2659888

Meydan

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Blue Orange – International Bussola – Italian Hunters – Steakhouse Oeno – Wine bar Senyar – Bar Spice Emporium – Thai

Traders Hotel Dubai

04 3813333

The Palace – The Old Town

Head to Blue Orange every Thursday and indulge in fresh lobster and a variety of oysters, sushi and sashimi. Doors open at 6pm and prices start a AED250 per person (excluding alcohol).

Flavours on Two – International Teatro – International Long’s Bar – Bar

The Meydan

04 3666197

04 4341320, 04 3997844, 0428943728

For British fare at its best head to Flavours on Two every Tuesday for Flavours from Britain. For AED179 expect classic Brit dishes with selected beverages.

Amika – Lounge/nightclub Arcadia – Afternoon tea Diademas Cigar Lounge – Cigar lounge Mizaan – International Okku – Japanese One on One – Cocktail bar Ruth's Chris Steak House – Steakhouse

BarZar

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Sheikh Zayed Road

This stylish Sheikh Zayed Road hotel has eight restaurants and bars to choose from.

Burj Khalifa

Ideal for a lively night out, BarZar serves British food and beverages.

04 3438000

04 5018888

04 8883828

Blue Rain – Thai Can Can – French bistro Center Cut – Steakhouse No.5 Lounge & Bar – Bar

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Road

Bas Pasta – Italian Farriers – International Prime – Steakhouse Shiba – Asian

Spectacular views await from the 122nd floor of the world's tallest building.

04 3994141

04 3325555

Moutabel: A delicious and spicy smoked aubergine dip that is popular in Syria, Lebanon and Palestine.

DIFC

Bring your appetite to Center Cut every Wednesday for Australian night. AED240 buys a three-course menu including a starter, barbecue, desserts and house beverages.

Sheikh Zayed Road

ARABIC TASTE

at.mosphere

04 3722222

Get ready to make a splash at Dive in Movies. Tuck into popcorn, a tasty barbecue and other delightful snacks as you watch films and relax on inflatable chairs in the hotel's private pool. Members receive complimentary access while non-members are charged AED65 (adults) and AED35 (children from six to 12). Bunkers – Pub Links – International Monty Cristo's – Cigar lounge Nineteen – International

the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre

Ushna Allegra

04 3073482

Al Murooj Rotana This stylish bar located in the heart of the city welcomes a well-heeled crowd seven nights a week. AQUARA

04 3627934

Dubai Marina Yacht Club Enjoy a spectacular view over Dubai Marina coupled with good food and fine wine.

04 3686506

Souk Madinat Jumeirah Chic décor, excellent cuisine and friendly service make this Indian restaurant a culinary favourite. West 14th

04 4477601

The Palm Jumeirah Carnivores, come one, come all! Expect succulent steaks at this contemporary, beachside New York grill and bar.

LISTINGS_TASTE_DXB JULY12.indd 92

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DUBAI TOURIST MAP

N W ATLANTIS THE PALM

HOTELS

40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81

This cluster of Jumeirah properties dominates Dubai's coastline and offers a luxury travel experience. Shop at Souk Madinat, relax in the Assawan Spa or make waves at Wild Wadi

36 53

JUMEIRAH BEACH

5 68

ROAD TO

HIGHWAY

RESORT & SPA

INTERCHANGE 6

METRO RED LINE STATIONS 1 TO 3

DUBAI MARINA MALL

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

JUMEIRAH ISLANDS

AL WASL ROAD

THE ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE DUBAI

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

10 21 43

38 17 11 10

SALIK

EMIRATES HILLS

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

A1 E1 D2 D2 A1 B2 D1 D2 D2 A1 D1 E1 D1 B1

B1 E2 E2 E2 A1 B3 B3 A1 D2 B2 A1 B1

GREEN DUBAI METRO

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

IRA TES

TO AIRPORT

JUMEIRAH VILLAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA AND PRODUCTION ZONE ROAD TO: • THE ELS CLUB

DUBAI SPORTS CITY

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATE UNDER CONSTRUCTION

ROAD TO:

9 • BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

• ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB

6 • DUBAI POLO AND EQUESTRIAN CLUB

6 4 8 THE ELS CLUB

HI GH W AY

Modhesh World 2

DUBAI ARABIAN RANCHES AUTODROME GOLF CLUB

Located at Dubai World Trade Center and considered one of the largest indoor edutainment theme parks in the Middle TO A East, Modhesh World is a highly anticipated IRPO RT family destination during the summer and 18 this year will be open to visitors from June GLOBAL 14th to August 25th 2012 during DSS, the VILLAGE holy month of Ramadan, and Eid Al Fitr. Modhesh World offers its visitors more than 40 entertainment zones in addition to international character shows for all nationalities. It receives around 500,000 visitors every year from across the region. AD

DUBAI METRO GREEN LINE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Creek Al Jadaf Dubai Health Care City Oud Metha Khalid Bin Al Waleed Saeedia Al Ghubaiba Al Ras Palm Deira Baniyas Square Union Square Salah Al Din Abu Baker Al Siddique Abu Hail Al Qayadah Stadium Al Nahda Dubai Airport Free Zone Al Qusias 1 Etisalat

E2 E2 E2 E2 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2

* Please call the RTA on 800 90 90 or visit wojhati.rta.ae for more information.

TIMES SQUARE CENTRE

AL KHAIL ROAD

A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 A1 B1 B1 B2 B2 C1 D1 D1 D1 D1 D1 D1 E1 E1 E1 E1 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2 E2

HIGHWAY

11 GREEN COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY Jebel Ali DUBAI Jebel Ali Industrial INVESTMENT Energy IbnPARK Battuta Nakheel Harbour & Tower Jumeirah Lakes Towers Dubai Marina Nakheel Dubai Internet City Sharaf DG Mall of the Emirates First Gulf Bank Noor Islamic Bank Business Bay Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Financial Centre Emirates Towers World Trade Centre Al Jafiliya Al Karama Khalid Bin Al Waleed Union Al Rigga Deira City Centre GGICO Airport Terminal 1 Airport Terminal 3 Emirates Rashidiya

GOLD AND DIAMOND PARK

As Dubai's main artery, this is one of the busiest roads along with Al Khail and Emirates Road.

E AT

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

12 11

Al Ghurair City E1 Arabian Center F3 Beach Centre D1 Burjuman E1 B1/C1/D1/E1 Choithram Supermarket locations Deira City Centre E2 Dragonmart D3 Dubai Festival City E2 Dubai Marina Mall A1 Dubai Outlet Mall D3 Gold and Diamond Park B2 Ibn Battuta Mall A1 Jumeira Centre D1 Boulevard at Jumeirah Emirates Towers D1 Jumeira Plaza D1 Lamcy Plaza E2 Mall of the Emirates B2 Mazaya Centre D1 Mercato D1 Mirdif City Centre E3 Oasis Centre C1 Palm Strip D1 Spinneys Supermarket locations C1/D1/E1 The Dubai Mall D2 Times Square Centre C2 Town Centre D1 The Village D1 Wafi E2

Aquaventure Aviation Club Al Nasr Leisureland and Stadium Al Wasl Stadium Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Dubai Sports City Jebel Ali Sailing Club (JASC) Meydan Racecourse Ski Dubai Skydive Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

UMM SUQEIM

A1 B1 A1 B2 E1 C2 E1 D1 E2 E1 A1 D1 B1 A1 E2 E1 D2 D2 E1 B1 D1 E2 B1 D1 D1 E1 E1 A1

59 42

IBN BATTUTA

ROAD TO: • DUBAI INVESTMENT PARK

AL SUFOUH ROAD

JUMEIRAH LAKES 16 TOWERS

A1 D1 B2 A1

5 39 81 52

DUBAI MARINA

32 JEBEL ALI GOLF

77 40 23 8

THE PALM JUMEIRAH

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL BURJ AL ARAB MADINAT JUMEIRAH

D1 E1 E2 D3 D1 A1 D1 D1 E2 B2 A1 A1 E1 A1 B2 E1 D1 A1 E2 E1 A1 B1 D1 D1

SHOPPING 1 2 3 4 5

INTERCHANGE 4

36 37 38 39

E2 D3 D2 D1 A1 D2 E1 A1 B3 B1 A2

INTERCHANGE 5

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa Al Manzil Hotel Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Amwaj Rotana Armani Hotel Dubai Asiana Hotel Atlantis, The Palm Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Burj Al Arab Courtyard by Marriott, Dubai Green Community Crowne Plaza Dubai Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City Desert Palm Dubai Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites Dusit Thani Dubai Fairmont Dubai Grand Hyatt Dubai Grand Millennium Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Holiday Inn Al Barsha Hyatt Regency Dubai & Galleria Ibis World Trade Centre Hotel Dubai 3 Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel InterContinental Dubai Festival City JW Marriott Dubai Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel Jumeirah Emirates Towers Jumeirah Living World Trade Centre Residence Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Jumeira Rotana Hotel Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Madinat Jumeirah (Al Qasr, Mina A'Salam, Dar Al Masyaf) Media One Hotel Media Rotana Dubai Meliã Dubai Metropolitan Hotel Dubai Metropolitan Palace Hotel Millennium Plaza Hotel Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai Mövenpick Hotel Deira Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach Novotel World Trade Centre Hotel One & Only Royal Mirage One & Only The Palm Park Hyatt Dubai Park Regis Kris Kin Qamardeen Hotel Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Downtown Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Media City Radisson Royal Hotel Dubai Raffles Dubai Rixos The Palm Dubai Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Shangri-La Hotel Dubai Sheraton Deira Hotel and Towers Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach Taj Palace Hotel The Address Downtown Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Dubai Marina The Address Montgomerie Dubai The H Hotel The Meydan The Palace — The Old Town The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai The Ritz-Carlton DIFC Traders Hotel Dubai Towers Rotana Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina INTERCHANGE 7

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

DUBAILA

UNDER CONSTRUC

THE PALM DEIRA UNDER CONSTRUCTION

JUMEIRAH BEACH CORNICHE

HOUSE OF SHEIKH SAEED AL MAKTOUM

THE WORLD UNDER CONSTRUCTION

JUMEIRAH BEACH ROAD

AL WASL ROAD

SATWA

SALIK

INTERCHANGE 1

BURJ KHALIFA

INTERCHANGE 2

INTERCHANGE 3

71 24

76 70

DOWNTOWN DUBAI 3

THE DUBAI MALL

CREEK PARK

6 54

3 ETH

13 79

METRO GREEN LINE STATIONS 15 TO 20

H 14 15

SALIK

INES

ROAD

BUS

AL GHURAIR CITY

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

20 14

WAFI

EJ RD

DUBAI HEALTHCARE 61 CITY

DEIRA CITY CENTRE

28 DM

23 12

LAMCY PLAZA

CLOCK TOWER

HALE

AIRPORT

Officially the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa stands as the centrepiece of the 500acre Downtown Dubai area. The tower houses the superluxurious Armani Hotel Dubai

A 15-minute drive from Dubai airport, the centre is in an enviable location on Sheikh Zayed Road and holds over 60,000 square feet of flexible and versatile exhibition space

BURJ KHALIFA

SALIK

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE

AL KARAMA

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

DIFC

Stretching along the new extension of Dubai Creek, this multi-billion dollar project is a city within a city and is destined to become the business capital of the region

11 22

BUSINESS BAY

58 66

5 21

QA R

19 AL

51 34

35 63 14

DEIRA

MAKTOUM

TRADE

AL K

E RD CENTR

18 28

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

60 19 74

64 80 47 12

23 TO AIRPORT

WORLD TRADE CENTRE

AL RIQ

RD 5

BURJUMAN

SATWA RD

SAFA PARK

BUR DUBAI MANKHOOL

ABU HAIL ROAD

JUMEIRAH

MM SUQEIM

8 DUBAI MUSEUM

BER

15 13

5 19 26

MINA RD

16 22

2ND DECEM

MERCATO MALL

JUMEIRAH BEACH PARK

WOLLONGONG BEACH

TIMES QUARE ENTRE

HERITAGE VILLAGE

S BA Y BR

GARHOUD

IDGE

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB

14 75 9

KHOR DUBAI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

MERCATO MALL

15 • DESERT PALM DUBAI 7 • DRAGONMART

5 19 26

ROAD TO:

AL AIN

71 4D OA 24ATES R EMIR

BOULEVARD AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS

SILICON OASIS

DUBAI FOUNTAIN

THE DUBAI MALL

DIFC

E RD CENTR TRADE

MIRDIFF

AL KAR 5

MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE

MUSHRIF PARK

5 12

ZAABEEL

45 16

EMAAR BOULEVARD

51 34

DOWNTOWN DUBAI

ROAD TO DUBAI OUTLET MALL 10

17 DRAGONMART

DUBAI OUTLET MALL

BUSINESS BAY

/OM

INTERCHANGE 2

INTERCHANGE 1

60 19

80 47 12

TTA HA

BURJ KHALIFA

ROAD TO AL MAHA23 DESERT RESORT & SPA

SATWA

SATWA RD

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

MANKHOOL RD

2 km

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2 mile

AL WASL SAFA PARK

BUR DUB

2 • ARABIAN CENTER

20 ROAD TO:

17 29

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

AL WASL ROAD

22 DUBAILAND

AL BARARI UNDER CONSTRUCTION

MINA RD

15 13

10 • DUBAI OUTLET MALL 2 • Al MAHA DESERT RESORT & SPA

BEACH ROAD

ROAD TO:

20 • MIRDIF CITY CENTRE

DUBAI FESTIVAL CITY

13 22

ROAD TO:

JUMEIRAH

2 6 9

ER ECEMB 2ND D

MEYDAN

LA PL

500 ft 200 m

28 6 D AR ETH

DU HEA CIT

{

my dubai

}

Lucy Chow, principal of The Elements Group, shares her thoughts on how to have a stylish stay in the city

1 Indego by Vineet 2 Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens

Capital Club Dubai at DIFC has a welcoming ambience and a mouthwatering menu. Alternatively, for a delicious curry look no further than Indego by Vineet, a superb Indian restaurant at Grosvenor House Dubai I moved to Dubai from Vancouver, Canada, just over five years ago and set up The Elements Group, a Dubaibased events company specialising in corporate business. My favourite time of year in Dubai is the cooler period between October and March because this period is packed with events such as the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, a three-day rugby tournament at the beginning of December. Another fun occasion is the Omega Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament held every February at the Emirates Golf Club. Every March The Dubai World Cup, known as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s richest horse race, is also a fun-filled day and

the perfect excuse to get dressed up in hats and heels. However, my favourite event of the year has to be Art Dubai, the largest annual contemporary art fair in the Middle East region. It goes from strength to strength every year and in 2012 the organisers introduced Design Days Dubai, a fair dedicated to furniture and collectible objects presented by international and Middle Eastern galleries. Dubai is a city famed for its amazing restaurants which makes picking a favourite spot quite tough. That said, Capital Club Dubai, at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), has a welcoming ambience and a mouthwatering menu. Another great place to eat

is Caramel, also located at DIFC. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find better burger sliders anywhere else in the city. Alternatively, for a delicious curry look no further than Indego by Vineet, a superb Indian restaurant at Grosvenor House Dubai. When it comes to retail therapy, I enjoy visiting the malls, but I really like discovering new designers and small one-off boutiques. Two of my favourite designers are Malene Birger and Amira Haroon. When I have guests in town I like to take them for afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab, followed by a ride on the Dubai Metro, as you get a semi-aerial view of the city and all the different neighbourhoods.

REGULARS_MY DUBAI_DXB_JULY12.indd 96

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XXX OLYMPIAD

LONDON

2012 OMEGA has been the Official Timekeeper at 25 Olympic Games. A partnership forged on the shared desire to record for future generations the valiant attempts of the young men and women of the world to go faster, reach higher and be stronger.

SEAMASTER AQUA TERRA OLYMPIC COLLECTION

OMEGA Boutiques: BurJuman • Deira City Centre • Dubai Mall • Mall of the Emirates • Mirdif City Centre • Sahara Centre • Wafi and at select Rivoli Stores. Toll Free: 800-RIVOLI

OLY67_C316_conceirge.indd 1

6/20/12 5:34 PM