Concierge Abu Dhabi Magazine, September 2013

SEPTEMBER 2013 | ISSUE 82

T H E

l u x u r y

ABU DHABI edition

F I V E - S T A r

V I S I T O r

M A G A Z I N E

Elegance is an attitude Kate Winslet

Longines DolceVita

A classic at first sight.

1815 RATTRAPANTE PERPETUAL CALENDAR

The classic personality of the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual

pocket watches. A close-up look at the L101.1 manufacture

Calendar is recognisable at first sight. The railway-track minute

calibre reveals its classic design. But since considerably less

scale, the Arabic numerals, and the symmetrically arranged sub-

space is available in the case of a wristwatch than in traditional

sidiary dials take their inspiration from earlier A. Lange & Sรถhne

pocket watches, the engineers had to master many a mechanical

Even more so when taking a closer look.

Manufacture calibre L101.1, crafted from 631 parts

challenge. After all, this timepiece unites two sophisticated

Thus, the name of the 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar

complications: the 211-part perpetual calendar with date, day of

legitimately refers to Ferdinand A. Lange’s birth year, because

week, month, and leap year, and the 206-part chronograph rattra-

with its elaborate complications, it represents the Saxon manu-

pante mechanism that displays stopped and intermediate times.

factory’s aspiration in a distinctive way. www.lange-soehne.com

You are cordially invited to discover the collection at: A. Lange & Söhne Boutique Abu Dhabi · Avenue at Etihad Towers, Tel. +971 2 665 05 88, abudhabi@lange-soehne.ae A. Lange & Söhne Boutique Dubai · Dubai Mall, Tel. +971 4 325 39 23, dubai@lange-soehne.ae

A . L A N G E & S Ö H N E • B A L LY • B o S S H U G o B o S S • B R E G U E T • BV L G A R I • B U R B E R RY • C A N A L I C A R T I E R CH L o é • D E G R I S o G o N o • E R M E N E G I L D o Z E G N A • FAU C H o N L E CA F é • G I U S E P P E Z A N o T T I • G I V E N C H Y H E R M È S • H E R V E L E G E R • I W C S C H A F F H A U S E N • J A E G E R - L E Co U LT R E J . M . W E S T o N • K I T o N • L A N V I N M A N o L o B L A H N I K • M o N T B L A N C • o F F I C I N E PA N E R A I • P I A G E T P o R S C H E D E S I G N • R o G E R D U B U I S R o L E X • S A LVAT o R E F E R R A G A M o • S T E F A N o R I C C I • S T E P H A N E R o L L A N D • T o M F o R D VA N C L E E F & A R P E L S • V E R S AC E • V E R T U

Avenue at Etihad Towers is dedicated to exclusive luxur y and home to the world’s most desirable brands. Immerse yourself in Abu Dhabi’s most sophisticated boutique retail destination and indulge in the joy of living and shopping. w w w.AvenueAtEtihadTowers.ae

Here, you can indulge your every whim.

Corniche - Fishing

Experience a world that exists beyond the imagination.

Uncover golden gleaming hours.

Every second moves you. Every minute lasts a lifetime.

This is more than a horizon stretching out before you.

You’ll find it’s everything you expect, and more.

And you think you’ve done it all?

Abu Dhabi. Travellers welcome.

Discover more. www.visitabudhabi.ae

SEPTEMBER 2013 / ISSuE 82 / aBu DhaBI EDITIon

Pu bl isher RoB n Ichol a S

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CirC u l at ion & M a r K et inG c a Rol MI l a n chR IST In E h a M a Da

i n t er nat iona l sa l es blei spa, italy via carlo cazzaniga, 19 – 20132 Milano Tel +39 02 722 511 / Email: info@bleispa.it s’reGie, france 46, Rue Sainte anne 75002 Paris Tel +33 1 56 88 20 80 / Email: SToMa@sregie.com

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 T o 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 concI E RgE M aga zI n E , T h E Pu Bl ISh E R c a n n 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 R Ro 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.

As a visitor and guest in Abu Dhabi, you are staying in a destination of distinction which I hope you will find so engaging and exciting that you return time and time again.

We in Abu Dhabi believe our homeland is something of a welcome contradiction for travellers. It is a place where deep-rooted Arabian heritage is deftly woven into a rich destination tapestry which also boasts luxury accommodation and world-class, state-of-the-art leisure attractions.

Abu Dhabi is blessed with a diverse landscape. We have 400 kilometres of pristine coastline, over 200 natural islands, vast tracts of serene desert, tranquil oasis towns and a vibrant, cosmopolitan capital city. I hope during your stay you are able to experience as much of this variety as possible.

In many ways, Abu Dhabi is several destinations in one, from the rustic charm of Al Ain, the birthplace of the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the breathtaking vastness of the Liwa Desert in Al Gharbia, with its mountainous dunes, to the energising pace and brightness of our capital city.

We all share a desire to make you feel as welcome as possible and hope you leave with a positive, lasting impression of our homeland, traditions and people.

In the pages of this magazine, you will get an overview of the emirate’s diverse offering. I am sure you will find something which truly excites and entertains you.

I wish you a very relaxing, enjoyable and memorable stay in Abu Dhabi.

Mubarak Al Muhairi Director General Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority

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 B PA 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。

In focus Photography: Adham Sneeh Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche

The Corniche is the beating heart of Abu Dhabi. The bustling stretch, which today features many of the city’s newest hotels and skyscrapers, has always been the centre of activity. A stroll from one end of this eightkilometre stretch, beginning at the luxurious Emirates Palace hotel, to the Port end, where fishermen (pictured) still take out the traditional dhow boats every day, offers a sweeping perspective of old and new Abu Dhabi.

This month, Concierge explores two of the UAE’s busiest waterways in pictures (page 26) and looks at the history that underpins these urban hubs (page 24).

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U LT I M AT E F EM I NI NI T Y

LIMELIGHT GALA 18K white gold watch Case set with brilliant-cut diamonds

piaget-gala.com

PIAGET BOUTIQUES: Abu Dhabi: Avenue at Etihad Towers, 02 667 0044 Dubai: The Dubai Mall - Reopening Soon Dubai: Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Atlantis 04 422 0233, Burj Al Arab, 04 348 9000 Burjuman Centre, 04 355 9090, Mall of the Emirates, 04 341 1211 Abu Dhabi: Al Manara International Jewellery, St. Regis Hotel, 02 6673535

Contents SEPTEMBER 2013 / ISSuE 82

12/Essentials

Abu Dhabi’s top attractions and events

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Discover 18/Another Abu Dhabi

Uncover a different side to the UAE capital at these unusual sites

24/Ripple effect Much of the country’s history is centered around its busy waterways

26/On bustling banks

Explore the landscaped pathways of Abu Dhabi’s picturesque Corniche and drink in the atmosphere surrounding Dubai’s vibrant creek in this month’s photoshoot

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Experience 38/Capital attraction

Keeping everyone entertained on a family holiday is easy in Abu Dhabi

Nourish tired skin with a cooling, summer therapy at one of the city’s top spas

UAE dEsErt

46/A breath of fresh air

Contents SEPTEMBER 2013 / ISSuE 82

50

Shop 52/Brand new

The much-anticipated Galleria, Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest luxury shopping destination, opens its doors this month

54/Quality time Innovative watch maker, Philip Stein tells Concierge about the birth of his brand and its metamorphosis into a lifestyle and wellbeing company

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Taste 62/Dining debuts A wave of new gourmet restaurants has opened up across town leaving Abu Dhabi diners spoilt for choice

70/The perfect blend

the forge, ritz-Carlton abu Dhabi, granD Canal

Arabic coffee is an integral part of UAE culture

73 The guide 88/My life in Abu Dhabi

Antonio Neto tells Concierge about his new life as a sea captain in the UAE capital

Brought to you in association with

Essentials

D I S C OV E R Art exhibition

The first in a series of shows by the UAE-based group, No White Walls will launch on September 19 in Abu Dhabi. The exhibition will feature a number of colourful cityscapes by Abu Dhabi artist, Jen Simon, including View from back of the house (pictured) alongside pieces by Julia and Janine Ibbini, Emily Gordon, Andrew Field, Kathryn Ryan and Sean Blake. Where: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr. Contact: 02 6543333

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SEPTEMBER

TA S T E

UPCOMING EVENTS

Brunch

Tom jones live

Book a table at one of Abu Dhabi’s five-star Friday brunches and prepare for a feast of gourmet cuisines from around the world. Sample a huge selection of international dishes at Ingredients in the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, pile your plate high with superfoods at The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa’s Bubbalicious Brunch (pictured) or indulge a sweet tooth at the Chocolate Obsession brunch in Al Raha Beach Hotel. For contact details see The Guide, pages 82 to 85.

September 19 The renowned soul singer will return to Abu Dhabi to perform a selection of his greatest hits in addition to new material from his latest albums.

Visit thinkflash.ae

mosCoW GRAnD CiRCUs

E X PER I E NCE Hunting exhibition

Get to grips with local culture at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition. Now in its 11th edition, this family event attracts a large crowd eager to participate in competitions, explore the interactive heritage displays and learn more about Bedouin customs and traditions in the fields of hunting, sport and desert survival. When: September 4 to 7. Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Contact: 02 6576290

September 25 to 28 Marvel at the breathtaking stunts performed by Russian acrobats in this theatrical production. Graceful dancers, daring acrobats and a host of other circus classics have been given a contemporary spin in this enthralling performance, which follows the success of last year’s Chinese state circus show at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

Visit circusabudhabi.ae

eiDFesT ABU DHABi October 15 to 17 Traditional activities, theatrical shows, artistic exhibitions, concerts and more will run over three days to celebrate the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha.

Visit visitabudhabi.ae

A B U D H A B i F i l m F e s T i vA l October 24 to November 2 Upcoming film-makers will display their talents at the seventh edition of this international festival.

Visit abudhabifilmfestival.ae

2 013 F o R m U l A 1 e T i H A D A i R WAy s ABU DHABi GRAnD pRix

SHOP

Madinat Zayed Gold Souk Glittering shop fronts, filled with gold in every form from nuggets and bars to coins and jewellery, greet shoppers at this historic souk. As popular for its authentic, Arabian atmosphere and traditional vibe as it is for the valuable items on display, the gold souk is top on the list of places to check out for firsttime visitors to Abu Dhabi. Where: Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre. When: Open Sat to Fri 9am to 11pm. Contact: 02 6333311

November 1 to 3 Tickets are already on sale for the hottest sporting event of the season. Book a seat in the stands or reserve a place in the prestigious Paddock Club to watch the world’s best drivers put their skills to the test on the famous Yas Marina Circuit.

Visit yasmarinacircuit.ae

ABU DHABi ART November 20 to 23 The annual boutique art fair brings together prominent galleries and artists from around the world in a showcase of contemporary art.

Visit abudhabiartfair.ae

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TA S T E

ASk THE CoNCIERGE

Conscientious dining

Moh a MM a d N at sh a h, c oN c ie rge at e a s t e rN M a Ngrov e s ho t e l & spa by a N a N ta r a of f e r s hi s t op t ip s f or v i s i t or s t o a bu dh a bi

As with most cities, Abu Dhabi has its ‘must-see’ attractions but there are also some truly distinctive experiences that can only be had here. A big bus tour of the city is a great way to cover the highlights, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the third largest structure of its kind in the world and Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, where visitors can join a tour of the premises and learn more about the UAE’s national bird.

There are also some interesting experiences available for those willing to travel further afield. A day trip to Sir Bani Yas Island begins at 9am with the half-hour flight followed by a safari drive around the wildlife park with an opportunity to spot cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes and other exotic creatures. This is followed by lunch at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, the only hotel on the island, before boarding the flight home at 3pm.

I also suggest a trip to the beautiful UAE desert. Head out towards Liwa, pausing at the Emirates National Auto Museum on the way before arriving at the luxurious Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara for lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the local landscape with a series of activities, such as game treks and desert hikes.

Back in the city centre, sailing enthusiasts can head over to Yas Marina where they have all kinds of boats and yachts to choose from while shoppers will find a choice selection of designer boutiques at Avenue at Etihad Towers.

For dinner, opt for one of the capital’s fine-dining destinations, such as Pachaylen at Eastern Mangroves Resort & Spa by Anantara or go local and head down to Arish on the banks of Mina Port which serves all kinds of Emirati dishes that you rarely see in other restaurants.

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Home-grown cuisine is increasingly de rigeur in Abu Dhabi where efforts are underway to encourage more restaurants to use locally sourced ingredients. Earlier this year, Fairmont Bab al Bahr won the ‘Best Sustainable Practice’ category at the Gourmet Abu Dhabi awards, while the head chef at Hyatt Capital Gate Abu Dhabi received an award for his widespread and creative use of local produce.

E X PER I E NCE Scuba diving

Dive into the Arabian Gulf and explore an underwater world teeming with exotic fish and sea life.

More than one-third of the world’s species of whales and dolphins make their homes here alongside a host of other creatures from turtles and puffer fish to barracuda and sting rays. Some of the most popular dive sites around Abu Dhabi include Jassim, Lion City and Hammour Barge. Contact: Al Mahara Diving Centre on 02 6437377 or Arabian Divers & Sportfishing Charters on 050 6146931

SHOP

SHOP

Designed with frequent flyers in mind, the Montblanc Star World-Time GMT Automatic enables wearers to keep a watchful eye on two time zones at once while also tracking the hour in the world’s 24 time zones via the outer dial. Contemporary and cosmopolitan in style, this timepiece is housed in a 42mm stainless steel case with guilloche dial, and is available in black or silver from the Montblanc boutiques in Avenue at Etihad Towers and the newly opened The Galleria in Abu Dhabi. There are 40 limited edition models featuring an Abu Dhabi time zone with designs available for both men and women. Contact: 02 68114801

For an exclusive shopping experience look no further than Avenue at Etihad Towers, the capital’s first mall dedicated entirely to luxury brands. Browse the jewellery displays in Cartier’s glittering shop front and try on diamond-studded watches in Breguet, then make your selection from the latest designer collections at Versace (pictured), Hervé Leger, Lanvin and more. Contact: avenue@etihadtowers.ae

Avenue

Montblanc

D I S C OV E R Heritage Village

Journey back into the past at Heritage Village which offers a taste of life as it was in Abu Dhabi’s pre-oil days. There’s a reconstructed Bedouin encampment with goat-hair tents and camels, a museum, a little spice shop selling dried herbs and handmade soap and an excellent example of the ancient falaj irrigation system. Workshops are held regularly to demonstrate traditional crafts, such as glass blowing and weaving on old-fashioned looms. The village is set in landscaped gardens and affords a splendid view of the Corniche and city skyline. Where: Breakwater. When: Open Thu to Sat 9am to 5pm and Fri 3.30 to 9pm. Contact: 02 6814455

TA S T E Arabic mezze

Sharing platters form the basis of culinary customs here and the Arabic mezze is a classic example. Order a selection of dishes beginning with salads and dips, including hummous and moutabel, before choosing some of the classic hot and cold mezze options such as stuffed vine leaves, kibbeh, (deep fried lamb balls), arayas (meat bread), grilled halloumi, falafel, warm cheese pastries and more. Available at Arabic restaurants around Abu Dhabi.

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Discover Made by hand

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Until recently, local occupants of the region had little access to imported goods from the outside world and had to make do with palm leaves, animal skins and rudimentary textiles to create everything from clothing and tents to food and water containers. Today, that tradition has been revived by Sougha, a local initiative designed to bring back the art of Bedouin weaving and preserve this historic skill. Contact: sougha.ae

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Hili tombs

Un U s Ual e xpe ri e n ce s / dis cove r

Another Abu Dhabi abu Dhabi isn’t all high-rise luxury. From ancient tombs in the desert to cars the size of a house, the Uae capital offers more than a few elements of surprise

In the tiny village of Hili, about an hour and a half by car from the centre of Abu Dhabi, is an unusual park containing several curious stone huts. Display plaques at the Hili Archeological Park inform visitors that they are ancient tombs, used by early civilisations for the mass burial of their dead. A quick browse on Google Maps reveals that there are hundreds of these ancient structures in this part of Al Ain, many congregated around the base of Jebel Hafeet, the UAE’s tallest mountain.

Archaeologists have dated the Hili tombs to the Umm Al Nar period, indicating that humans were occupying this region as far back as 2000BCE. They are one of several important historical discoveries made over the past half century that recently qualified Abu Dhabi for World Heritage status. Now, the Hili area, along with the neighbouring sites of Bida, Bint Saud, Hafeet and the six oases close by, is the UAE’s first and currently only, UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In total, there are around 40 listed archaeological sites in Al Ain and many more relics from the Bronze and Iron Ages have been found in other parts of the emirate. Excavations have been going on across the capital since the 1960s, when Al Ain’s strategic significance as a crossroads between Oman and the Arabian Gulf came to light. Now restoration and conservation programmes are in place to protect these windows to the past and preserve the UAE capital’s cultural legacy.

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dis c o v er /Un UsUa l expe riences

Hili Archaeological Park is the primary site and has been developed to afford visitors and residents an opportunity to explore some of the restored tombs and other remains, which include settlements and an Iron Age irrigation system, known as a falaj. Smaller finds from the site, such as ancient pottery, stone vessels and funerary items can be seen at the nearby Al Ain National Museum, where a section on ancient history explores the lives of early settlers in this region.

For visitors who come expecting to meet with the oft-perceived image of Abu Dhabi as purely a city of avant-garde architecture and luxury living, these primordial discoveries come as a surprise. Those who scratch the surface, however, will find that the crumbling ruins of ancient civilisations are just one of many unexpected places and experiences in the UAE capital, which has its fair share of hidden gems for those willing to venture off the beaten track.

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1 Hili Archaeological Park, Al Ain 2 Al Ain National Museum 3 & 4 Arabian Wildlife Park, Sir Bani Yas Island

sir Bani Yas island Once a favourite retreat of the late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, former ruler of the UAE, this remote spot is accessible only by boat or plane and contains just one hotel, the luxurious Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. The rest of the island is given over to providing a home for an eclectic mix of creatures that seem unusually placed on this little desert island miles from anywhere. Herds of giraffe, ostrich and several leopards mingle with hyena, gazelle and Barbary sheep at the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas, which began as a place for Sheikh Zayed to keep and care for the exotic creatures given to him as gifts by foreign governments and royalty. Today, visitors can experience this enchanting place by booking a night at the resort and joining one of the guided safari experiences, on foot, horseback, bicycle or by car.

Those who scratch the surface will find that the crumbling ruins of ancient civilisations are just one of many unexpected places and experiences in the UAe capital

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In Touch

With Nature

Special Offer Buy one ticket and get one for free for your next visit to Al Ain Zoo Valid until December 31, 2013 * Terms and conditions apply

Discover wildlife and enjoy a great day-out packed with fun and adventure, and explore our large animal collection of around 4,000 animals. Al Ain Zoo is a true family destination, providing entertainment and learning experiences in a natural outdoor environment.

For opening times and special attractions or visit www.alainzoo.ae AlAinZooUAE

In collaboration with

Member of

dis c o v er /Un UsUa l expe riences

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emirates National Auto Museum Quaint and charmingly ramshackle, the auto museum has none of the polish and sophistication that characterises Abu Dhabi’s newer cultural sites but is nevertheless one of the emirate’s most intriguing attractions and guaranteed to top anyone’s list of memorable automobile experiences. It begins with the Guinness World Record-holding Dodge Power Wagon - the largest vehicle on the planet.

This colossal car is the size of a large house with four bedrooms, a sitting room, kitchen and bathrooms inside.

Another record-holding exhibit is an L-1011 TriStar jet and an eight-bed apartment on wheels, which can be found parked out back alongside a globe-shaped caravan that is precisely one-millionth the size of the world.

In addition to these larger-than-life vehicles, there is a number of rare vintage automobiles on display, some of which are worth millions of dirhams in addition to a collection of Minis that range from the old open-air Moke to the more recent racing-striped models.

C o n ta C t d e ta i l s Sir Bani YaS: Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara: 02 8015400 aBu DhaBi Pearl JourneY:

adpearljourney.com emirateS national auto muSeum: enam.ae al ain national muSeum: 03 7641595 araBian nightS village: 02 6769990

The village

5 Emirates National Auto Museum 6 & 7 The Village, Arabian Nights 8 Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey

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Set in the heart of the desert, miles from the noise and bustle of the city, this peaceful spot is the perfect way to throw off the trappings of modern life and immerse yourself in a truly cultural experience.

Launched last year, the Arabian Nights Village is designed to resemble a traditional Bedouin encampment. Visitors can choose from four accommodation options, including barasti huts, tents and wind tower rooms set in a landscaped desert plot where everything is designed to look like a typical oasis settlement.

Of course, guests are not expected to do without some of the more necessary comforts, such as the chilled swimming pool and restaurant, but all is designed to blend harmoniously with the surroundings and capture the romance of old Arabia in an authentic setting. For those who want to embrace traditional ways of desert life and gain a real sense of what it felt like to

be a Bedouin, a night or two in this remote spot is ideal. The Arabian Nights Village will be open from September 15.

The Abu dhabi Pearl Journey Another way for visitors to tap into the history of the UAE is to book a place on the Jalboot - the traditional pearling boat and join a guided tour through the turquoise waters.

For a long time, pearls were the lifeblood of the community and local men would spend up to four months in a row at sea, diving great depths without any equipment to forage on the ocean floor for the precious gems.

Demonstrations on board show visitors how the divers managed this feat and offers an opportunity to try a hand at cracking open an oyster, (the pearl inside is yours to keep). The experience also includes traditional Arabian food and snacks and great photo opportunities of the Abu Dhabi skyline from out at sea.

Ripple effect

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The waterways of Dubai and Abu Dhabi are busy thoroughfares that link past with present

The UAE’s transformation from a collection of sleepy Bedouin lands to one of the world’s most dynamic nations is rooted in its life-giving waterways.

Dubai Creek helped transform a small fishing village into the spectacular city we see today, while the Abu Dhabi Corniche has long been a hub of activity in the capital, both for business and leisure. Each stretch of water has, over the course of time, helped cities and indeed a nation, rise from the desert.

1 Dhow on Dubai Creek 2 View of Dubai Creek from above 3 Abu Dhabi Corniche 4 Corniche Public Beach

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Over a century ago, as the Bedouin travelled through the desert, they found a place to settle in the modest fishing villages that have since become Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The warm and sheltered waters of the Arabian Gulf provided perfect conditions for pearls and this, in turn, saw coastal communities f lourish. Traditional boats known as dhows were built on the banks of the waterways to carry pearl divers out to reefs where they would courageously free dive to the seabed in search of precious oysters. By the early 19 th century, the pearl-diving trade had garnered great wealth for the nation. However this was shortlived and by the 1930s the development of the Japanese cultured pearl brought with it an end to the UAE’s lucrative pearling income. Despite this the waterways continued to play a major role in city

life, becoming ports for dhows ferrying goods from India and the Orient.

Today, Dubai Creek and its bustling banks offer visitors a treasure trove of fascinating activities. Often referred to as the heart of Dubai, the salt-water creek originates in the Arabian Gulf and ends 14 kilometres away at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Also known as Khor Dubai, it divides the city with Deira on one side and Bur Dubai on the other. Stroll along the water’s edge for a glimpse into Dubai’s trading past as all manner of goods are loaded onto dhows destined for neighbouring countries and beyond. For a further insight into Dubai’s rich heritage Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a short walk away. This charming city quarter is renowned for its quaint cobbled streets and traditional wind towers.

Once an enclave for fishermen who

WA T E RW A YS / DIS COVE R

found work on Dubai Creek, this area has been painstakingly restored with a clutch of art galleries and cafés featured alongside some of the city’s oldest buildings. Dubai Museum can also be found here and is well worth a visit as it includes innovatively designed exhibits, including displays charting Dubai’s transition from fishing village to pearl-diving hub and thriving metropolis. Perhaps one of the best ways to see Dubai Creek is from an abra, a traditional boat which ferries passengers across this enthralling waterway. Sit back, relax and gaze at both old and new Dubai to glean a true sense of the city’s soul.

In Abu Dhabi, the Corniche features many of the capital’s top assets while boasting gleaming sands, lush parks and boutique shopping. On any given day of the week the Corniche is abuzz with activities. It’s the gateway to the city’s public beach and, at weekends especially, people pass along here to reach their favourite sunbathing, volleyball or swimming spots. In the cafés, others sit drinking coffee or enjoying a

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Dubai Creek helped transform a small fishing village into the spectacular city we see today, while the Abu Dhabi Corniche has long been a hub of activity in the capital, both for business and leisure

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bite to eat, while on the seaside path a regular stream of joggers, cyclists and roller-bladers make their way along the eight-kilometre stretch. In many ways, the Corniche is a microcosm of Abu Dhabi’s brief history. At one end, lies the old Port Zayed, where the city’s expansion really began, while at the other stands a symbol of the prosperity that overseas trade has brought to the country – Emirates Palace. In between and set back from the beach, high- and medium-rise buildings represent various stages of Abu Dhabi’s development from the original towers to the sleek new skyscrapers and high-rise hotels.

A landscaped path snakes its way alongside the beach, breaking out into patches of park and a flower-covered bank every so often. Around the entrance to the public beach, the path broadens into a large paved area surrounded by cafés and ice-cream stalls. Situated further along the breakwater is the Heritage Village where reconstructed barasti huts and demonstrations of traditional Emirati crafts offer an insight into times gone by.

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On bustling banks Concierge photographer Adham Sneeh heads down to the waterfronts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi where modern cities meet traditional ways of life

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Modern Abu Dhabi sprung up along the tip of an island that juts out to sea. Today the city's corniche is an immaculately landscaped eight-kilometre promenade where visitors and residents come to walk, jog, cycle and visit the large public beach

For a long time, fishing was the lifeblood of the local community and provided the Bedouin with vital sustenance in the arid desert environment. Today, UAE fishermen still cast their nets from the traditional wooden dhows used by previous generations

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Abu Dhabi's landscaped waterfront has been protected from developers and reserved for the public to enjoy. This is the heart and soul of the city; a place where people come to unwind and enjoy outdoor activities. The Corniche Public Beach often plays host to high-profile events, such as concerts, sports competitions and cultural celebrations

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Some 30,000 to 50,000 visitors flock to the Corniche Public Beach each month.

The pristine stretch, which has been awarded coveted Blue Flag status to guarantee clean bathing water, is a welcome change from the the urban landscape

Dubai Creek reflects both the past and present of this energetic city. The significant stretch of water provides a vital channel for boats laden with goods travelling to and from Dubai. Also known as the khor or heart of the city, the creek has seen Dubai rise from the desert

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Along the banks of Dubai Creek lie the colourful souks where visitors can stock up on spices, fabric, perfumes and jewellery.

The city's oldest quarter, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, is also a short stroll from here and features traditional local architecture, art galleries and cafĂŠs. Wander though quaint alleyways and soak up the atmosphere of this charming locale

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Dubai Creek separates the old districts of Bur Dubai and Deira, snaking through newer parts of the city as it flows the 14 kilometres from Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to the Arabian Gulf. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club (pictured above) is one of several landmarks situated along its banks

A cruise along the creek is a wonderful way to take in the sights of old and new Dubai. Join a dinner cruise aboard a traditional dhow and spend a memorable evening savouring fine food and the changing city vistas

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Experience Make a splash

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Take on the rapids in the Middle East’s first manmade white-water rafting facility then see what it’s like to surf in the desert on the giant wave at Wadi Adventure. Situated in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet, the UAE’s highest peak, the extreme water sports facility also features an air park and family swimming pool. Lessons are available for children and beginners. Where: Al Ain. Contact: 03 7818422

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PHOTOGRAPHY: ADHAM SNEEH

Capital attraction Rise early to beat the heat and enjoy an athletic morning in one of Abu Dhabi’s five-star sports facilities, then dedicate an afternoon to the cultural sites or opt for some retail therapy in a luxury mall

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Finding a destination that caters to diverse interests can be challenging but Abu Dhabi’s broad spectrum of attractions is ideally suited to mixed groups. From its luxury shopping malls and gourmet restaurants to stunning nature reserves and historic forts, the UAE capital offers an array of options to keep ever yone entertained, whatever their preferences.

Action-adventure seekers will find countless opportunities for high-octane thrills, particularly on Yas Island, the capital’s entertainment hub while sports enthusiasts can go straight to Al Forsan International Sports Resort. Here, first-rate watersports facilities are combined with world-class go-karting and equestrian facilities among other leisure attractions.

Those who want to experience the arty side of Abu Dhabi can begin on Saadiyat Island for a preview of the capital’s upcoming culture hub before exploring some of the city’s top galleries. Dedicated shoppers, meanwhile, can easily fill days at a time in the many malls and souks, which offer everything from locally made souvenirs to international designer collections.

To help plan a successful stay, Concierge has put together a selection of itineraries that allow visitors to focus on the Abu Dhabi that suits them best.

FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

F AM I LY ACT I V I T I E S / e xp e r ie nce

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A cultural perspective In the past few years, the UAE capital has expanded from artistic obscurity to international renown, thanks largely to the ambitious plans in place for Saadiyat Island. Before long, the 27-square-kilometre island, which sits just 55 metres off the coast of Abu Dhabi, will be home to some of the city’s primary attractions, including Louvre Abu Dhabi (pictured) and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Scheduled to open in 2015 and 2017, respectively, these prestigious institutions will also be joined by the Zayed National Museum (2016) and later a Maritime Museum and Performing Arts Centre.

Together, these venues will form the core of the capital’s new cultural district - set to become a global hub for art and education. It will also be the only place in the world to feature designs by five Pritzker prize-winning architects, evidence of which can be seen in the detailed plans laid out in the Saadiyat Story exhibition in Manarat Al Saadiyat.

Here, visitors can explore the interactive displays that cover the different phases of development on the island, including the culture hub, nature reserve and residential areas, in addition to the attractions that are already up and running, such as

the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and two five-star hotels, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, each with a selection of dining options ranging from family eateries to gourmet restaurants.

C o n ta C t d e ta i l s Manarat Al Saadiyat: 02 4061400 St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort: 02 4988888 Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas: 02 4071234

Those who really want to test their mettle can begin at Yas Marina Circuit where visitors experience the longest straight in Formula 1 on the world-famous race track

Need for speed It’s hard to know where to begin on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s attraction-packed entertainment hub. On the one hand, there’s Ferrari World Abu Dhabi (pictured above), home to the fastest roller coaster on the planet and a host of other exhilarating rides inspired by the famous car brand, but on the other is Yas Waterworld, Abu Dhabi’s newest aqua park with 40 slides and attractions, several of them record-holders in their own right.

Those who really want to test their mettle can begin at Yas Marina Circuit where visitors experience the longest straight in Formula 1 as a driver or passenger on the worldfamous race track and, if that’s not fast enough, then a session on the drag strip in a SuperComp Dragster should suffice.

C o n ta C t d e ta i l s Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: 02 4968001 Yas Waterworld: 02 4142000 / Yas Marina Circuit: 02 6599800

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Retail therapy A recent influx of new malls and souks has transformed Abu Dhabi’s shopping scene and put it on a par with neighbouring retail haven, Dubai. The most recent addition, The Galleria, has just opened its doors to bring a host of new brands to the capital, including Diane von Furstenburg, Marc Jacobs and Tory Burch alongside a number of high-end dining venues, such as Zuma and Armani Caffé, both of which have launched their first Abu Dhabi outlets here.

Luxury shopping is at the heart of the retail experience in Abu Dhabi, where even the souks have an upmarket feel.

The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri features a mix of souvenir shops, antique emporiums and jewellery boutiques in a Venetianstyle setting (right down to the canals), while the Souk at World Trade Centre offers shoppers a number of hole-inthe-wall art galleries alongside high-end fashion outlets.

Just over the road from here is the new Mall at World Trade Centre, home to the first House of Fraser outside the UK and down the road is Avenue at Etihad Towers (pictured), where the emphasis is entirely on top-end designers.

1 Marc by Marc Jacobs A/W 2013 2 & 3 Tory Birch A/W 2013

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Stay in shape

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S The Galleria: 02 6166999 The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri: 02 5581670 Souk at World Trade Centre: 02 8107810 Mall at World Trade Centre: 02 8107814 Avenue at Etihad Towers: 02 6133337

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Abu Dhabi’s tendency towards luxury attractions extends to its gyms, which put a five-star spin on fitness. Almost all the capital’s hotels have sophisticated wellness centres, many supplemented by spas, Turkish baths and various other facilities designed to create the most comfortable and opulent environment possible. The Anantara Spa at Emirates Palace is one of several in the capital that feature exquisite Moroccan hammams while Zen, The Spa at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi boasts a dedicated mud room where guests can indulge in a deeply relaxing and purifying Rasul Mud therapy.

There are also several standalone venues where visitors can join a group fitness session or pay a day rate to use the facilities. Abu Dhabi Country Club (pictured) has recently launched a new work-out centre where regular classes throughout the week include TRX, Body Pump, ViPR, GRIT and Les Mills classes.

The centre also features two squash courts, a large multi-purpose sports pitch for football, basketball, volleyball, handball and tennis and three aerobics studios.

C O N TA C T D E TA I L S Anantara Spa, Emirates Palace: 02 6907978 Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi: 02 6979000 Abu Dhabi Country Club: 02 6577777

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Opening Soon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Abu Dhabi Marina Mall

E X P E R IE NC E/FA MILY A CTI V ITIES

Sporting spirit Abu Dhabi has some first-rate sports venues where visitors can enjoy their favourite athletic hobbies in a luxurious environment with the best possible facilities. Golfers have the opportunity to choose between three championship-ready courses, Yas Links, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and Abu Dhabi Golf Club, while water sports enthusiasts will find that wake boarding, jet skiing and water skiing are readily available through a number of the seaside hotels, including Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Hilton Abu Dhabi and Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort.

Al Forsan International Sports Resort also offers water sports on its custom-designed

lakes in addition to go-karting on a championship-standard circuit, a variety of shooting ranges that cater to rifle, handgun and sporting clays, several themed paint-balling domes and impressive equestrian facilities with indoor and outdoor arenas. For those who want to expend some energy at one of the capital’s most sophisticated athletic venues, this is certainly the place to start.

C o n ta C t d e ta i l s Yas Links: 02 8107777 Saadiyat Beach Golf Club: 02 5578001 Abu Dhabi Golf Club: 02 5588990 Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi: 02 6979000 Hilton Abu Dhabi: 02 6811900 Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort: 02 6773333 Al Forsan International Sports Resort: 02 5568555

Natural retreat

Take to the dunes on an exhilarating safari drive and roar through the desert in a 4x4 with a professional driver accustomed to managing the challenging terrain

The UAE capital is not all five-star facilities and modern urban living. In fact, the vast majority of Abu Dhabi is untouched desert, where indigenous creatures, such as the Arabian hare, sand gazelle and spinytailed lizard live peacefully among the pristine dunes with not a building to be seen for miles around. Visitors inclined to explore beyond the city and see this face of Abu Dhabi can take to the dunes on an exhilarating safari drive and roar through the desert in a 4x4 with a professional driver accustomed to managing the challenging terrain. Local tour operators, including Arabian Nights and Net Tours run safari excursions into the desert.

For total immersion in nature, book a few nights at one of the capital’s desert resorts and wake up every morning to views of the desert, stretching as far as the eye can see. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a stunning retreat in the heart of the Liwa Desert and Tilal Liwa Hotel is a laid-back resort at the desert’s edge. Both these venues offer nature excursions and an opportunity to unwind in a serene environment away from the noise of the city.

C o n ta C t d e ta i l s Arabian Nights: 02 6779988 Net Tours: 02 6794658 Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

by Anantara: 02 8862088 Tilal Liwa Hotel: 02 8946111

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a beach day at the park escape to park hyatt abu dhabi on saadiyat island for a day on the beach for only aed 600++. the offer is available throughout the summer and includes the following: -

day use of a park room from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm for up to four guests access to the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural sand beach and swimming pools use of atarmia spa wet facilities access to the fitness centre and tennis court

reservations: +971 2 407 1234 or abudhabi.park.hyatt.com Reservations are subject to availability and not valid in conjunction with any other offers and promotions. Rate is per room which is day use only based on a maximum of four persons. Additional charges apply to room-type upgrades. Additional guests may be subject to additional hotel charges. No refunds for any unused portion of package. Promotional blackout periods may apply due to seasonal periods or special events, and normal arrival/departure restrictions apply.

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A breath of fresh air Shrug off the summer heat with one of these restorative therapies designed to reverse the effects of soaring temperatures and sunlight on the skin

September may suggest cooler temperatures elsewhere, but in Abu Dhabi the summer is still in full force. Luckily, this city is full of luxurious spas that offer blissful retreats from the heat of the day.

Book in for an invigorating summer skin therapy to remove dry, damaged cells and nurse the body back to glowing health.

Particularly beneficial to the skin at this time of year are dates. The nutrient-rich fruits restore depleted levels of vitamins and minerals in the skin, leaving it with a natural, healthy glow. At Heavenly Spa in The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa visitors can book in for the new date wrap treatment, which combines the cleansing properties of mineral salts with the nourishing qualities of home-grown dates.

Another effective ingredient to soothe sun-damaged cells is algae which not only moisturises and tones but also functions as a detoxifying agent, helping to restore the natural balance of the skin. At Chi, The Spa in Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, the Summer DetoxiTreat is specially formulated to counteract the negative effects of the external environment and leave you looking radiant and refreshed.

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Sun escape treatment Wild yam is well-known for its conditioning properties and to be particularly effective for mature skin due, in part, to its harmonising qualities. For the same reasons, it can work well on skin that has been exposed to intense climates, restoring the equilibrium when it has been thrown out of balance by intense sunlight and high temperatures.

This therapy uses a yam-rich cream masque to balance the skin and create an environment where the cells can naturally repair themselves. Nourishing essential oils are then used to hydrate the cells in this luxurious facial which leaves you feeling refreshed and renewed.

Where: Yas Viceroy / How much: AED725 / Contact: 02 6560000

Desert muse facial September is one of the most humid months of the year in Abu Dhabi and the skin is placed under additional strain by the constant movement from hot outdoor temperatures to heavily air-conditioned indoor environments. These dramatic f luctuations can disturb the natural pH balance of the skin which then struggles to keep the necessary levels of moisture in and perform its function as a barrier against bacteria.

High humidity is particularly detrimental to the skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to retain sufficient levels of moisture and over-exposure can result in

a dry, flaky surface. The Desert Muse facial treatment at Rayana Spa is specially formulated to combat these effects and protect the skin in hot, humid climates. Powerful exfoliants are used to remove damaged cells before nourishing moisturisers are applied.

A marble stone massage works wonders by stimulating the capillaries in the face before cooling products are used to tighten the pores and restore a smooth, even tone.

Where: Rayana Spa, Hyatt Capital Gate Hotel How much: AED700 / Contact: 02 5961234

Summer Detoxi Treat At this time of year, therapists at Chi, The Spa particularly recommend the Summer DetoxiTreat, which is specially designed to refresh and rebalance the skin during the hotter months. The experience begins with a Himalayen salt scrub to remove dead cells and boost blood before a cooling algae wrap is applied. While the algae works its magic on the body, the therapist performs a deeply relaxing cranial hold therapy to stimulate the movement of fluid in the head and bring the left and right sides of the brain into balance.

After about 15 minutes, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for a quick shower to wash away the excess salts and algae before the hour-long Asian blend massage begins. Guests choose their preferred pressure, which can range from relaxing to deep-tissue or somewhere in between, before closing their eyes and allowing the therapist to soothe away the tension in both body and mind with a blend of Swedish, Shiatsu and Reflexology techniques.

Where: Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri How much: AED500 / Contact: 02 5098888

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Heavenly date wrap Silky smooth skin is easily achieved with this indulgent new therapy that uses home-grown dates to nourish and hydrate.

The experience begins with a vigorous full-body salt rub that removes the dull, dead surface of the skin and exposes the fresh, new layers beneath.

Once the skin is primed and ready, an organic date mix, made from fruits picked in the hotel’s own garden, is applied all over the body, which is then wrapped up and left to absorb the nutrients for 15 to 20 minutes. While the wrap opens the pores, flushes out the impurities and renews depleted sources of minerals in the skin, the therapist passes the time with a relaxing head massage.

After the mix has been rinsed away, the spa’s signature lotion, a healing blend of aloe vera and white tea, is rubbed into the skin. It’s best to leave this on for as long as possible to allow the potent, natural ingredients to work, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple for days afterwards.

Where: Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa How much: AED350 / Contact: 02 6169999

Once the skin is primed and ready, an organic date mix, made from fruits picked in the hotel’s own garden, is applied all over the body, which is then wrapped up and left to absorb the nutrients for 15 to 20 minutes

rasul mud therapy At Zen, the Spa, therapists employ one of Arabia’s oldest beauty rituals to detoxify the skin and restore its natural balance. In this 45-minute treatment, guests are shown into the specially designed Rasul chamber where a therapist applies the mud from top to toe.

Four types of Rasual mineral mud are used, with varying strengths, on different parts of the body.

Once every inch of skin is covered, the steam is switched on and guests are left to relax to the sounds of gentle music while the mud draws the toxins from the skin. After about 20 minutes the showers come on and rinse away the mud and you emerge cleansed and revived with wonderfully soft, clear skin.

Where: Zen the spa, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi How much: AED250 / Contact: 02 6979000

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Shop Baume & Mercier

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Frequent flyers will appreciate the adjustable hour hand on the new Capeland Worldtimer by Baume & Mercier which can be moved independently without compromising the accuracy of the minutes and seconds. Available in red gold or satin-brushed steel, this timeless model features a 44-millimetre circular dial that comes in either ash grey or off-white. Contact: 02 6272222

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Brand new As shoppers flood through the doors of Abu Dhabi’s newest mall, Concierge discovers how The Galleria will change the face of retail in this city Abu Dhabi’s shopping scene is in the throes of massive change. Up until a few years ago serious shoppers would undertake the hour-long drive to Dubai to find their preferred brands, particularly luxury sector stores. Not so now. With a mall construction boom in full swing and new venues opening all the time, Abu Dhabi is squaring up to rival its neighbour as the ever-expanding retail landscape lures leading brands from around the world to the city.

“Dubai has sustained its dominance in this sphere for more than a decade but, with the launch of The Galleria, Abu Dhabi residents and visitors have a marketleading lifestyle destination on their doorstep. There is now a destination address where people can shop and dine in a distinctive urban setting,” says Kevin Ryan (pictured opposite), managing director at The Galleria development company, Gulf Related.

These days ‘distinctive’ is the operative word for retail venues in Abu Dhabi as growing competition raises the bar for retail destinations looking to attract and maintain a steady footfall throughout the year. With the sudden influx of new malls, including the recently launched Mall at World Trade Centre, not to mention the many nearing completion, such as Yas Mall, Deefields Townsquare and The Collection at Saadiyat, there is no longer any question of losing shoppers down the road to Dubai. The question for mall managers now is how to get a piece of the new pie and keep it.

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L UX URY MA L L S / S HOP

1 Emporio Armani a/w 2013 2 & 5 Diane Von Furstenberg, a/w 2013 3 Burberry a/w 2013 4 Lanvin a/w 2013

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“Successful shopping developers and retailers are beginning to achieve customercentricity by replacing the product focus of the past with tailored shopping experiences. This is even more important when it comes to discerning luxury shoppers,” says Ryan. At The Galleria, this will be achieved by a combination of wow-factor design elements and exclusive retail opportunities, including a large number of firstto-market designer brands.

Marvin Traub Associates, a global leader in retail consultancy was tasked with assembling a compelling roster of global fashion names for the new mall. “It was clear from the overwhelming leasing success of The Galleria that Abu Dhabi is still significantly underserved in terms of high end retail and dining venues – a gap we aim to occupy with this boundary pushing retail environment,” says Ryan.

Among the high profile names that have made their debut appearance in Abu Dhabi at The Galleria are Berluti, Celine, Mulberry, Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch and Moschino. Luxury fashion brand, Diane Von Furstenberg has also launched its first boutique in the UAE capital at The Galleria, which the Belgian-born designer described as, “The perfect backdrop for our new store concept designed for the woman who is effortless, glamorous and on-the-go.”

Complementing the impressive line-up of international fashion brands is the well thought-out selection of dining venues.

Zuma, the first in Abu Dhabi, Emporio Armani Caffé, Almaz by Momo and

THE BIG PICTURE In the future, The Galleria will be joined by another shopping venue - Sowwah Central. Together, the two malls will be part of a larger retail community called Sowwah Square, which in turn will make up the leisure and recreation zone of the upcoming Al Maryah Island project. Once completed this development will consist of 148,644 square metres of retail, dining and entertainment space.

There are also two 400,000-square foot towers - easily accessible by covered, air-conditioned walkways. One of these is the five-star Rosewood Abu Dhabi hotel, where visitors will find a further selection of fine and family dining options in a chic, modern setting.

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Bentley Bistro & Bar have all opened their doors along The Galleria’s picturesque waterfront promenade, which is expected to act as an attraction in its own right. “Food and beverage outlets represent 36 percent of our entire GLA (gross leasable area) and will therefore be another key draw to the precinct for Abu Dhabi residents and visitors in the capital,” says Ryan This feeds into the larger aims for the venue to become an urban hotspot in Abu Dhabi, he continues. “The Galleria entered the market with a new concept both in terms of branding and positioning. From the very beginning, the outlets selected were aligned with our vision to become a new hub for contemporary fashion and dining with a novel mix of luxury, bridge and high street-style shopping, that is unlike anywhere else in the UAE capital.”

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A little over a decade ago, a husband and wife with a shared passion for health and wellbeing forged a new watch brand with a truly unique founding principle. Philip Stein watches was born from the idea that a watch could be much more to the wearer than a beautiful marker of time. Cutting-edge technology was added to a stunning collection of watches and bracelets to deliver not only fine timepieces and jewellery but aids to achieve quality sleep and manage stress levels, improving overall wellbeing. The company enjoyed rapid expansion and has grown into a major player in the industry. From the first few outlets in America in 2004, Philip Stein now has over 35 boutiques across the globe.

The innovations continue and Timepiece innovator Philip Stein is undergoing an exciting evolution with sights set firmly on the future last July a significant evolution for the brand was announced in New York. Previously known as the watchmaker with a wellbeing benefit, the company has repositioned itself as a provider of these lifestyle products. A new guiding principle was also unveiled, centred around the concept Live in Tune. The notion will be applied at a host of new sensory boutiques which will showcase the range of lifestyle products. This evolution not only marks a break from the conventional journey of a watchmaking company but the start of an exciting new chapter for the dynamic duo who built the Philip Stein brand.

Quality time

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“My wife Rina and I started the company in 2002 in the US. Rina was already in the watch business and my background was in marketing so we put our strengths together. When we were coming up with the name for our company, Rina was pregnant with our son. We planned to call our son Ben Philip but decided to call him Ben leaving Philip for the watch brand – our other baby,” says president and founder of Philip Stein, Will Stein.

The couple sold their first watch in Miami, Florida and soon after, were introduced to the technology that would go on to define their collection. Natural frequency technology is incorporated across the Philip Stein range in watches, sleep bracelets and wine wands, which aim to use the frequencies to aerate wine. “We live in a world of technology and are surrounded constantly by both natural and manmade frequencies.

What our technology does, with a disc inside the watch or bracelet, is tap into the natural frequencies that surround us. Think of it like an antenna picking up signals and channelling them.

“We don’t create anything new: we just use existing natural frequencies and channel them to the body. As a result,

1 Philip Stein Signature Collection (previous page) 2 Philip Stein Sleep Bracelet 3 Will Stein 4 Signature Collection 5 Philip Stein at the Precious Jewels Store, The Dubai Mall

WHERE TO BUY

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the body is set to its optimised state when it functions best. Many people who wear our watches have reported that they focus better and are more relaxed in stressful situations. It’s not because we are healing a certain part or symptom, it’s really because the body is back in balance with nature. That’s the uniqueness of our products,” explains Stein, who was born in Germany.

Philip Stein is available at Rivoli and Hour Choice boutiques in: Al Wahda Mall, Marina Mall, Khalidiyah Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall.

Contact: 02 6813035 or visit philipstein.com

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Many people who wear our watches have reported that they focus better and are more relaxed in stressful situations. It’s not because we are healing a certain part or symptom, it’s really because the body is back in balance with nature

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The team at Philip Stein has poured much time and effort into researching the effects of the wellbeing products to measure the technology’s success. “Until 2009, we had a lot of anecdotal testimonials which was great but we needed some kind of science. We carried out a stress study on our watches and a sleep study on our sleep bracelets. The participants reported exactly what we anticipated. With the sleep bracelets they fell asleep faster, slept deeper and woke up feeling more refreshed. For the stress test we carried out what is called a heart rate variability study which measures stress symptoms and we saw that the feeling of stress was reduced for people who wore the watch.

“With the sleep bracelet, the technology is the same but the recipe is different as it only picks up natural frequencies which are important for sleep, whereas

MAGNETIC ATTRACTION Discover Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new luxury shopping and dining destination.

Be drawn to The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Explore the largest collection of designer brands complemented by distinct waterfront dining experiences, centrally located in the heart of Abu Dhabi.

THEGALLERIA.AE

JUICYCOUTURE.COM

NOW OPEN IN GALLERIA MALL, AL MARYAH ISLAND, ABU DHABI

W A T CHE S / s hop

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the watch helps with overall wellbeing.

Last year we gave 20 journalists here in Dubai the sleep bracelet to test for 30 days. Afterwards we all shared the results and 19 out of the 20 reported sleeping better, falling asleep faster, not waking up as much at night and waking up feeling more refreshed. It was really amazing,” says Stein.

Philip Stein is now repositioned as a lifestyle wellbeing brand and there are ambitious plans for the future which include new sensory boutiques and expansion of the technology across a wide range of products. A first boutique here in the UAE is also high on the company’s agenda. “This is a very exciting time for us. We are very focused on

the UAE market and one of the things I’d like to see is a Philip Stein boutique here where the focus is on luxury but also on internal luxury in terms of your own wellbeing,” says Stein.

“We are in the process of creating a new boutique concept that we feel is so unique it will be like a magnet. Visitors will want to walk in. We have boutiques all over the world but they are Philip Stein watch boutiques, what we are creating now is something very different: a sensory experience boutique. We don’t have the concept quite finished yet but will be unveiling it very soon.

We want people to be able to easily visualise the concept and understand it straight away,” says Stein.

6 Calgaro Bracelet 7, 8 & 9 Signature Collection 10 Philip Stein at Rivoli, Khalidiyah Mall, Abu Dhabi

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On a higher frequency

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The Natural Frequency Technology in Philip Stein products is based on the premise that every organ, tissue, cell and molecule in the human body vibrates within a certain range of frequencies and that each has its optimum frequency. The ideal state for the body is known as Harmonic Resonance Frequency (HRF). Philip Stein products use a special disc to tap into that frequency, aiming to assist the body in reaching that optimal state. This is a concept which is used in eastern alternative therapies such as acupuncture and reiki to help reset the body’s natural balance.

Remaining faithful to its roots, the company is adding to the Philip Stein watch collections later in the year with a focus on classic shapes and styles. Stein explains: “We will of course have new models coming out soon. We started off last year with round watches with the signature look of the dual time zone. We are toning down a little bit more this year to a classic and traditional-looking watch, again with the wellbeing technology inside. We will also bring out a small collection of men’s bracelets this year, all with the technology incorporated.”

Stein adds: “We don’t want to be seen only as a watch brand. We want to be the wellbeing technology brand and the gold standard within this new category which we have created. We will launch more and more products that can accompany people throughout their day-to-day lives and help with their overall wellbeing. Our vision is that Philip Stein will become your wellbeing companion with a range of products to enhance your experiences 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

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Taste Sophisticated seafood

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As a signature dish at one of Abu Dhabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smartest seafood restaurants, the tempura oysters with curried apple and mango chutney has a lot to live up to. Fortunately, this adventurous recipe tastes as good as it looks and the freshly shucked oysters, which guests are invited to pick out themselves, more than meet expectations. Where: Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. Contact: 02 8115666

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Dining debuts A number of new restaurants are causing a stir in Abu Dhabi. Concierge explores the capital’s latest culinary hot spots

Abu Dhabi is a city on the move. From the ever-changing urban landscape to the constant influx of people from all over the world, nothing here remains static for long. This is especially true of the capital’s dining scene, which offers fertile ground for new high-end restaurants and fresh culinary concepts to take root.

In recent months, Abu Dhabi diners have welcomed the arrival of several gourmet eateries, each of which has added a string to the city’s epicurean bow. “These days, the UAE capital is full of well-travelled diners and we are seeing more and more new restaurants that try to create a distinctive experience for them,” says Chef Antonio from Catalan at Rosewood Abu Dhabi.

From dining on fresh noodles that have been ‘pulled’ before your eyes to indulging in gourmet tapas at the capital’s only Catalonian restaurant, there is no shortage of novel culinary experiences to tempt gourmands in Abu Dhabi.

Read on for our review of the city’s most talked-about five-star eateries.

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Li jiang, Ritz-CaRLton abu Dhabi, gRanD CanaL

N E W RE S T A URA N T S / T A S T E

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T AS T E / Ne w res ta ura Nts

Rhodes 44 is not just a celebrity restaurant by name. In the weeks leading up to the launch, the Michelin-star chef spent weeks in the region perfecting dishes and finalising the menu

Rhodes 44 There are several features of this stylish new restaurant that make it stand out from the crowd before you’ve even walked through the door. Firstly, there’s its celebrity status: Rhodes 44 is co-managed by British chef, Gary Rhodes (pictured), making it one of just two celebrity-chef restaurants in Abu Dhabi at present.

Another distinguishing factor is the menu. Five-star British fare is not easy to find and Rhodes has managed to introduce it in a way that will also appeal to local diners. The eclectic menu features a selection of cuisines, from fresh interpretations of traditional Arabian dishes given a contemporary twist to a selection of unadulterated British classics such

as shepherd’s pie, toad-in-the-hole and fish and chips.

This is not just a celebrity restaurant by name. In the weeks leading up to the launch, the Michelin-star chef spent weeks in the region perfecting dishes, finalising the menu and overseeing finishing touches to the kitchen to ensure that diners here would enjoy the full Rhodes experience. He has also created a separate, gastro-pub style menu to be served in the hotel’s bar next door and an afternoon tea, which will be available in the lobby throughout the day.

Where: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi When: Open daily, 6.30am to 11pm Contact: 02 6944444

Benjarong It’s not easy to evoke the spirit of Thailand in Abu Dhabi but Benjarong, with its serene Oriental décor and fresh and faithful cuisine, manages this feat remarkably well. It begins with the atmosphere, which is calm and soothing with soft lighting, dark wood partitions and touches of deep crimson that add an air of opulence. When the food arrives, it’s clear that this is no run-of-the-mill noodle and curry house but Thai cuisine at its best.

A good way to start is by ordering the appetiser platter, which features a selection of Thai specialities, such as chicken satay, tofu wrapped in rice crepes and thod man pla (prawn cakes). The starter menu also offers a number of tasty salads that go well with the platter but it’s worth saving plenty of space for the mains, which include classic green and red Thai curries cooked to perfection, succulent prawn stir fries and spicy rice dishes that remind diners what true Thai food should taste like.

Where: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi When: Open daily, 12.30 to 3pm and 7 to 11pm / Contact: 02 6988888

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YAS REMEMBER TO LIVE

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ABU DHABI

YAS ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI • ANGUILLA • BEVERLY HILLS • NEW YORK • MALDIVES • MIAMI • PALM SPRINGS • SANTA MONICA • SNOWMASS

RESERVATIONS UAE +971 2 656 0700 • viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/abudhabi

T AS T E / Ne w res ta ura Nts

Li Jiang The lively atmosphere of Abu Dhabi’s newest Southeast Asian eaterie is offset by theatrical touches to the décor and cuisine with different dining experiences available throughout the restaurant. Those who want to immerse themselves in the vibrant marketplace vibe of Li Jiang, which means ‘beautiful river’ in Chinese, can book a table at the front where the noise of the kitchen and bar add to the colourful experience.

Those sat here can also watch the noodle master, Miami Wei, as he spins the dough into delicate ribbons for each order in what is more aptly described as an art form than a cooking skill. For a more intimate experience, couples can book a table for two by the window at the back and admire beautiful views of the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand

Mosque over the hotel gardens, while larger tables in the middle and to the sides are ideal for groups.

True to style, the food here tastes as though it has come straight out of an Asian market with an exotic selection of regional spices and vegetables used across a range of seafood, meat and vegetarian dishes inspired by different cooking traditions from the region. Fans of dumplings will be especially delighted to find a lengthy list of options, including the lobster, snow pea and enoki mushroom or the duck, spring onion and ginger packages, in addition to a selection of pan-fried recipes, such as the Beef Fois Gras or the Ji Bao Chicken Bun. Where: Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal When: Open daily for dinner, 7pm to midnight Contact: 02 8188282

Catalan From traditional Spanish dishes such as hearty seafood paella to regional delicacies such as Lobster Caldereta, the menu at this smart new eaterie here offers Abu Dhabi diners a comprehensive introduction to Catalonian cuisine. As one of very few Spanish restaurants in the UAE capital and the first to focus on food from Catalonia, this elegant new eaterie already offers diners something out of the ordinary. More than this, however, Catalan manages to create a real sense of the region it represents and take diners on a sensory journey through the dishes of Barcelona and its surrounding towns and villages where some of Spain’s greatest culinary triumphs were born.

“We offer diners a genuine experience of Catalonian cooking. Many of our ingredients are flown in directly from Spain and the rest are sourced locally to create a fresh, authentic flavor that blends traditional concepts with contemporary recipes,” says the restaurant’s head chef, Antonio Saez Garcia. Regular changes to the menu will keep dishes up to date at Catalan, where the elegant gold and white decor captures the essence of 18th century dining halls in the stately homes of Europe.

Where: Rosewood Abu Dhabi When: Open Mon to Sat 7pm to 11.30pm / Contact: 02 8135550

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The Forge A good steak is not something to be taken lightly. It should be cooked carefully and to perfection, paired with complementary sides, then savoured slowly, mouthful by mouthful accompanied by an excellent glass of full-bodied red wine. Staff at The Forge, Abu Dhabi’s newest steakhouse, know this and invite their guests to join them for a carefully thought-out culinary experience that will delight the most discerning of carnivores. There’s even a selection of knives so that diners can choose the blade that best complements their cut.

The extensive menu offers a choice selection of steaks that combine the best cuts with the finest meat sourced from around the world. There’s the Australian Gold Angus rib eye, the Argentinian tenderloin or, for those with a particularly hearty appetite, there’s the 500-gram French Côte de Boeuf, a feast of rich, tender meat that melts in the mouth. There’s also the gastronomic-sounding wagyu beef burger, which comes with pan-fried duck liver, truffle sauce, caramelised onion-ceps and mushroom compote.

Where: Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal When: Open daily for dinner 7 to 11pm Contact: 02 8188282

For those with a particularly hearty appetite, there’s the 500-gram French Côte de Boeuf, a feast of rich, tender meat that melts in the mouth

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The perfect blend

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For a true taste of local life savour a delicious Arabic coffee Caramel-coloured beans bubble on the stove at just the right temperature before the dark frothy liquid is poured into a highly polished jug. A distinct aroma fills the air as Arabica beans fuse with cardamom to form a special blend. As the coffee is poured into traditional finjaan cups, a sense of ceremony surrounds the occasion. More than a symbol of Emirati warmth and hospitality, Arabic coffee, also known as khaleeji, is revered as an important reminder of local traditions and time gone by.

Coffee was first popularised in the Arab world where warm conditions were ripe for cultivating beans. The social aspect of gathering to enjoy the drink soon made the activity central to community life here, long before coffee drinking caught on in Europe. The first cultivation of coffee was in Yemen where it was given the Arabic name qahwa from which the words coffee

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and cafĂŠ both derive. Mystics in Yemen initially used coffee to improve concentration. By 1414 the practice of drinking coffee had spread throughout the Middle East. A warming drink to comfort in cool night-time desert temperatures, Bedouin cooked coffee in copper pots on beds of coal in the sand over an open fire. Retaining much of the same method, ground beans are to this day boiled rather than filtered or percolated and served in small cups intended to be enjoyed straight away.

Arabic coffeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive taste comes from the addition of spices such as saffron and cardamom, which can give the drink a green hue. The beans, lighter in colour than American or European varieties, are lightly roasted and ground with cardamom before being boiled for around 15 to 20 minutes.

Additional blends are infused with saffron, cloves or rose water to offer alternative flavours. Once boiled on the stove in a copper pot known as a kezveh, the coffee is transferred to a copper pot or jug called dallah which is often characterised by a long spout.

L OCA L FL A V OUR/ t a s t e

An example of the dallah’s elegant shape can be seen on the one dirham coin which bears an image of the jug–a further testament to the importance of Arabic coffee within local culture. The drink is then served in small cups known as finjaan which are poured a quarter full. The coffee is intended to be enjoyed straight away without stirring so the liquid rising to the top can be savoured first.

Arabic coffee is rarely served with milk or sugar to allow the strength of flavour to come through.

Instead a sweet side offering such as dates often accompanies the drink.

A cornerstone of the famous Emirati hospitality, Arabic coffee is normally offered to guests visiting a home here. Etiquette requires at least one cup is taken from the host who will pour the coffee as guests are warmly welcomed. It is polite to drink from a cup held in the right hand. A circular swirl of the cup is usually considered as an indication that you have finished. Arabic coffee is also served

3

More than a symbol of emirati warmth and hospitality, arabic coffee, also known as khaleeji, is revered as an important reminder of local traditions and times gone by 1 Bedouin brewing a pot of Arabic coffee the traditional way 2 Flowing conversation goes hand in hand with the Arabic coffee experience 3 Ghulam Mayar, coffee man at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri 4 Dates often accompany coffee

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REGIONAL BLENDS Arabic coffee comes from the Arabica bean which originates from the Coffea tree found in the mountains of Yemen.

A variety of blends and brewing styles have emerged throughout the Middle East.

Turkish coffee is the thicker darker drink and is usually a lot stronger with foam on top and grounds at the bottom.

Turkish coffee is also often served sweetened.

Saudi Arabian blends, known as Al-Qahwa tend to be very strong and are recognisable by a green hue.

Emirati coffees tend to have a strong, bitter flavour with cardamom or rose water added and is never sweetened.

Dates are served alongside instead.

at social gatherings, business meetings and during special occasions such as Ramadan during iftar, the meal that breaks the fast each day.

A traditional dallah coffee pot makes a wonderful memento from a visit to Abu Dhabi and the city’s souks and malls have a beautiful selection to choose from. There are also plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy an authentic Arabic coffee with a host of traditional cafés, souks and even shopping malls offering the chance to enjoy the delicious drink.

Many of the city's five-star hotels serve Arabic coffee and dates in their lobby lounges and some even have a dedicated 'coffee man.' At Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, guests are served a rich, local blend on arrival by resident coffee expert, Ghulam Mayar, who is more than happy to share his knowledge of the subject with those curious to learn more. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal also has a dedicated coffee man who offers the traditional refreshment to guests as they enter the hotel.

Arabic restaurants around Abu Dhabi have their own preferences when it comes to selecting a preferred local blend. Mezlai at Emirates Palace, Atayeb at Yas Viceroy and Corniche All-Day Dining at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche all offer delicious varieties of Arabic coffee. Visitors can also take a seat at a local café in one of the city's souks and watch the world go by as they linger over a steaming cup of aromatic Arabian coffee.

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The guide discover / experience / shop / taste

art galleries / museums and cultur al sites tours / family activities / adventure golf / sports / malls / souks hotel outlets and promotions

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Discover

Proud of its culture and history, Abu Dhabi has focused efforts on preserving its identity through galleries and museums

art Galleries

HeMisPHere desiGn studiO & GallerY

02 6768614

The gallery shows original art from locally based artists.

Hemisphere also organises exhibitions and events.

MuseuMs and cultural sites

Timings: Sat to Thu 9.30am to 12.45pm and 3 to 9pm Manarat al saadiYat

Abu Dhabi etiHad GallerY

02 6444366

On one side of this converted villa is an antiques emporium, crammed with historic treasures and on the other is a sleek modern art gallery featuring works by regional and international artists.

Timings: Sat to Thu

10am to 1.30pm and 5pm to 10.30pm FOlKlOre GallerY

02 6660361

Offers art, craft and gift items from the Arab world along with prints and paintings inspired by the UAE landscape.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 10pm GHaF art GallerY

02 6655332

Ghaf is the oldest art gallery in the capital and features work by artists in Abu Dhabi and around the world.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 9pm

02 4061400, saadiyat.ae

The interactive exhibition offers an insight into future developments on Saadiyat Island, including the culture hub taking shape here.

Timings: Daily 10am to 8pm QiBaB art GallerY

02 6652350

Specialises in Iraqi art, but also shows work from international, regional and local artists.

Timings: Daily 10am to 1pm and

5 to 8pm

salWa Zeidan GallerY

02 6669656

Aims to be the main address for international and Middle Eastern contemporary and emerging artists.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 7pm. To set up a private viewing contact: 02 6669656

Al Ain al Qattara arts center

03 7618080

Housed in a historic fort in Al Ain’s Al Qattara Oasis, this centre specialises in local and Arab art as well as UAE heritage and culture.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 8pm

Abu Dhabi eMirates natiOnal autO MuseuM

02 6676999, 050 8293952, enam.ae

3

A diverse collection of more than 200 classic vehicles owned

by Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan.

Timings: Daily 9am to 6pm (closed for lunch) Guide price: AED50 HeritaGe VillaGe

02 6814455

This tourist site on the Breakwater near Marina Mall is a recreation of Bedouin life with a museum of original artefacts and photographs and a small souk for souvenirs.

Timings: Sat to Thu 9am to 5pm, Fri 3.30 to 9pm Guide price: Free Manarat al saadiYat

02 6575800, saadiyat.ae

This visitor centre on Saadiyat Island houses international exhibitions with four galleries, a theatre, events' space and Fanr restaurant.

Timings: Daily 10am to 8pm ZaYed centre

02 665 9555

1. Carpet Souk 2. Artist's impression of the future development on Saadiyat Island 3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 4. Hatta 5. Etihad Antiques Gallery

For a fascinating sneak peek into the life of the late Sheikh Zayed visit the Zayed Centre in Abu Dhabi's Al Bateen district.

This museum, housed in an Emirati heritage village is an incredible homage to the man who shaped the nation.

Timings: Open Sun to Thu. Bookings must be made a week in advance.

Al Ain al JaHili FOrt

03 7843996

HISTORIC BUILDINGS Sightseers are spoilt for choice as Abu Dhabi is peppered with historic landmarks. Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain houses a permanent exhibition devoted to the explorer and traveller Mubarak bin London (Wilfred Thesiger) who crossed the Empty Quarter twice in the 1940s, as well as a temporary exhibition space, a shop and a café.

One of the largest forts in the UAE, Al Jahili Fort was built by Sheikh Zayed the First between 1891 and 1898 and used as a royal summer residence.

Timings: Daily 9am to 5pm, Fri 3 to 5pm. Closed Mondays Guide price: Free al ain natiOnal MuseuM

03 7641595

This museum illustrates the UAE's distant past as well as recent history through archaeological and ethnographical sections.

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 7.30pm, Fri 3 to 7.30pm. Closed Mondays Guide price: AED3 adults, AED1 children under 10 years

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T HE GUI D E / Dis cove r

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SHEIKH ZAYEd PALACE MUSEUM

03 7517755

Originally a palace for the Al Nahyan family, it is now a museum that chronicles the lifestyle of the ruling family.

FALCON FACTS

Timings: Sat to Thu 8.30am to 7.30pm, Fri 3 to 7pm. Closed Mondays Guide price: Free

800 244287

See Abu Dhabi's major attractions on an open-top double-decker bus at your own pace, hopping on and off where you like.

Commentary is available in eight languages.

Al Gharbia

Timings: 9am to 5pm.

Ticket valid 24 hours Guide price: Adults AED200, children AED100, family (two adults, two children) AED500

CHrIStIAN MONAStErY

02 6445117

EMIrAtES AdvENtUrES

Explore the remains of a Christian monastery which is believed to have been founded in the late 6th century CE on Sir Bani Yas Island.

The guided tour takes one hour.

Experience Abu Dhabi's unique culture by visiting Heritage Village, the dates market, Gold Centre and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on the half-day city tour.

Timings: Daily at 7, 9 and 11am, 2 and 4pm Guide price: AED250

Timings: Daily 9am to 1pm Guide price: AED180, children AED120

02 8015400

4

BIG BUS COMPANY

NEt tOUrS

tOUrS

02 6794656

Haggle over carpets, admire the Corniche, learn about local culture and visit the Grand Mosque.

Timings: Daily 9am to 1.30pm Guide price: Adults

AED150, children AED100 SHEIKH ZAYEd GrANd MOSQUE

Air

800 555 or szgmc.ae

One of the largest mosques in the world, this place of worship runs tours that offer an insight into Islamic culture and religion.

FALCON AvIAtION SErvICES

02 4440007

For a completely different view of Abu Dhabi, board a helicopter and see the city's major landmarks from above.

Guide price: AED1,250 per person for a 30-minute city tour

Land AL MASAOOd trAvEL

02 6211797

Explore Abu Dhabi’s rich Arabic culture and modern architecture on this fivehour city tour that takes in all the major sites.

Guide price: From AED150 for adults and AED100 for children ArABIAN AdvENtUrES

02 6911711

Take in the Grand Mosque, Cultural Foundation, souks, Corniche and Heritage Village before driving past the presidential palace area and Emirates Palace.

Timings: Monday and Wednesday mornings Guide price: Adults AED160, children AED80 ArABIAN NIGHtS

02 6779988

The corporate travel company organises excursions around the capital.

Visitors can also book an overnight stay at the Arabian Nights Village, a luxurious Bedouin camp in the desert.

Guide price: Accommodation at the village ranges from AED1,250 for a bayt al bahr heritage room to AED3,750 for a luxurious wind tower suite.

History in the making The earliest known habitation in this part of the world dates back as far as 5500 BCE. However, it was in 1971, when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi's ruler from 1966 to 2004, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990, set the wheels in motion with their neighbouring sheikhdoms, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ajman (Ras Al Khaimah joined in 1972) to form an alliance.

The falcon is not only a national symbol of the UAE but a majestic bird that has played a significant role in the country's development.

The impressive predators were crucial to early Bedouin life as they strived to carve out an existence in the harsh desert conditions. Falcons were trained to hunt for food. Teaching the birds was a fascinating process that saw a close bond form between handler and bird.

The same is true today although the birds are used purely for sport. Annual falcon championships are hugely popular and sees falcons purchased and trained for the duration of the hunting season before the birds are once again returned to the wild.

Today the importance of the falcon to UAE culture and history is seen in many examples as the bird is represented on banknotes, official documents, paintings and architecture.

Timings: Open 9am to 10pm (except Friday mornings). See boxout at right for free tour times Guide price: Free SUNSHINE tOUrS

02 4449914

Tours are available in different destinations around the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Liwa and Al Ain.

Guide price: Abu Dhabi city

tour AED190. Dubai or Al Ain city tours cost AED390 and include lunch.

Water

HILtONIA BEACH CLUB

ArABIAN AdvENtUrES

Take a sightseeing cruise along the Corniche, around Abu Dhabi island or enjoy a dinner cruise.

Head to the ‘garden city’ stopping at museums, oases and the camel market before venturing to Jebel Hafeet.

02 6811900

Guide price: Sightseeing cruise along Corniche from AED250 for half an hour (five people or less). Cruise around Abu Dhabi AED750 for two hours(five people or less). Dinner cruise AED300 PEArL JOUrNEY

02 6419914

Learn more about the pearl diving industry that once underpinned the local economy on this fascinting cruise, where guests have the chance to find their own pearl.

Guide price: AED500 for adults, children (under 12) AED400.

SEA CrUISEr

050 8009495 or seacruiser.ae

Cruise along the Abu Dhabi Corniche before stopping for diving, snorkelling, fishing and other water activities.

Guide price: Adults AED120, children AED75

AL dHAFrA

YELLOw BOAtS

Al Dhafra’s dhows can take up to 60 people. Sail to nearby islands or simply cruise along the Corniche.

Skim through the waves in these bright yellow boats on a high-speed tour of Abu Dhabi.

02 6732266

Timings: Boarding 8.30pm, cruise from 9 to 11pm Guide price: AED180 per hour for large dhows, AED150 per hour for small dhow, private hire starting at AED600 per hour CAPt. tONY'S

02 6507175

Abu Dhabi's first ecoconscious boat tour operators runs island-hopping excursions, coastal cruises, mangrove trips and more.

Guide price: Sunset cruise AED250 for adults and AED150 for children. Island Beach Tour, AED350 for adults and AED250 for children.

Private charter AED2,800

800 8044

Guide price: Adults

AED200, children AED150 SHErAtON ABU dHABI

02 6773333

See the city from the water along the Corniche on a private boat for up to six people.

Timings: On demand Guide price: Corniche cruise

AED 200 for 30 minutes.

Sunset cruise AED200

Al Ain AL MASAOOd trAvEL

02 6911711

Visit Al Ain’s attractions, including oases, souks, the Al Ain Museum, camel market, palaces and archaeological sites.

02 6911711

Timings: Tours on Tuesdays Guide price: Adults AED225, children AED115 EMIrAtES AdvENtUrES

02 6445117

Discover the heritage heart of the emirate with a full-day tour of Al Ain. Learn the history of the region at the city's museums, see how Al Ain earned its reputation as the 'garden city' and go shopping for camels at the Camel Market.

Timings: Saturday to Thursday (except Monday) 8.30am to 6pm Guide price: AED380 including lunch. Minimum of four people

Al Gharbia ArABIAN AdvENtUrES

02 6911711

Visit the edge of the Rub Al Khali (also known as the Empty Quarter), stopping in Liwa to see Bedouin camps and enjoy lunch. Then take in an old fort before the journey back.

Timings: On request Guide price: On request EMIrAtES AdvENtUrES

02 6445117

Join a safari into Al Gharbia and the Rub Al Khali, see the Liwa Oasis and enjoy lunch at a local guest house.

Timings: Daily 8.30am to 6pm Guide price: AED550 including lunch. Minimum of four people NEt tOUrS

02 6794656 or info@netgroupauh.com

Enjoy a thrilling 4x4 bash over the sand dunes and visit the Rub Al Khali, the world’s largest sand desert, before lunch at a local hotel.

Timings: 8am to 6pm Guide price: Adults

AED290 children AED235

Guide price: From AED250 for adults and AED180 for children

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Experience With a vast desert, spectacular coastline and world-class sporting facilities, Abu Dhabi is made for action and adventure

ABU DHABI

MURjAN SpLASH pARK

050 8781009

This mini water park at Khalifa Park is ideal for youngsters with seven water-based activities. Chill out on the 257-metre lazy river or battle it out in a water balloon fight.

Amusements CHILDREN’S VILLAGE

02 4415900

This village at the Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel has a Jungle Garden play area for the under-eights, electronic games and a bowling centre.

Timings: Sat to Wed 9am to

8pm, Thu and Fri 9am to 10pm Guide price: Varies.

Bowling AED15 per game FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI

02 4968001 or ferrariworldabudhabi.com

Ride roller coasters at top speed, race in an F1 simulator around a virtual Yas Marina Circuit and be propelled 62 metres into the air. Then feast on fine Italian cuisine before stopping in the world's largest Ferrari store.

Timings: Tue to Sun 11am to 8pm Guide price: AED235 for visitors over 1.3m tall, AED195 for visitors below 1.3m.

Premium tickets available FUN CITY

02 6815527

Hi-tech amusement centre in Marina Mall with an impressive line-up of rides, including a roller coaster, bumper cars and an area for under fives.

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

Guide price: Varies by ride.

Rollercoaster AED10 per ride.

FUN WORLD

02 6322255

Fun World at Al Muhairy Centre caters to youngsters up to eight years old with soft play areas, bumper cars and a bouncy castle.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 1.30pm, 4 to 10pm; Fri 3.30 to 11pm; Sat 10am to 10pm Guide price: From AED3.50 for arcade games, AED10 for bouncy castle and AED15 for soft play area KIDOOS

02 6459070

Kidoos at Abu Dhabi Mall offers arcade games, a climbing wall and a play area for younger children.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm Guide price: AED17 for climbing wall, AED35 weekdays, AED 45 weekends for play area

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Timings: Sat to Sun 2 to 6pm and 7 to 11pm. Ladies' day on Tuesdays is from 10am to 7pm.

Guide price: AED40 for guests above 75cm tall and free for guests under 75cm SpARKY’S

02 6354316

Branches at Khalidiya Mall, Al Raha Mall, Mazyad Mall and Mushrif Mall with a modest ice rink, bowling alley and soft play area.

Timings: Sat to Sun 9am to midnight, Fri 1pm to midnight.

Guide price: AED36 for ice rink, AED15 for bowling WANASA LAND

02 4437654

Wanasa Land at Al Wahda Mall boasts Strike Zone, a six-lane bowling alley and soft play area.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to

midnight, Fri to Sat 10am to 1am.

Guide price: AED40 for Strike Zone, AED35 for play area, AED15 for bowling YAS WATERWORLD

02 4142000, yaswaterworld.com

Bowling ARMED FORCES OFFICERS’ CLUB

02 4415900

This huge sports complex is an active family's paradise.

Test your aim at the bowling centre which has four alleys.

Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm Guide price: Members and guests AED10 per game including shoe hire.

Non-members AED15 per game KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL BOWLING CENTRE

02 4034200

A state-of-the-art centre at Zayed Sports City with 40 international-standard lanes.

Timings: Daily 9am to 1am Guide price: AED12 per game

02 5839200 or 50 6147007 Call the UAE Camel Race Association for directions to the camel race track.

Timings: Fri and Sat 7 to 9am and 2.30 to 4pm Guide price: Free

Guide price:Standard admission AED225 for adults, AED185 for children.

AL BANDAR SAILING SCHOOL

02 5755155 or 050 6660739

Get up close to the national bird of the UAE and see it in full flight. Educational and informative tours are available in a number of languages.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 2pm. All tours must be booked in advance.

Guide price: AED220 for adults and AED80 for children with a meal, or AED170 for adults and AED60 for children without a meal NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMpANY

050 7218928 or noukhada.ae

Take the two-and-a-half-hour Twitcher's Tour, paddling past the mangroves and see a variety of birds, including herons.

Timings: Check website for details Guide price: AED200

Yas Waterworld, Yas Island Abu Dhabi Emirates Park Zoo, Al Rahba City Talise Spa, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Underwater in the UAE

AL WATHBA

Cruising & sailing

ABU DHABI FALCON HOSpITAL

1.

2.

3.

4.

Camel racing

Choose between 40 rides, slides and attractions at this new water park which is the latest addition to the Yas Island entertainment hub.

Birdwatching

2

050 6606428

Brush up on your sailing skills with professional lessons then charter a boat and take to the seas in one of Al Bandar's dinghys, keelboats or powerboats.

Timings:Daily, 9am to 5pm ABU DHABI CHARTERS

02 6424222

Take a three-hour cruise and experience sunset over the Arabian Gulf.

3

Guide price: From AED750 per person ARABIAN DIVERS & SpORTFISHING CHARTERS

050 6146931

Charter a boat for cruises along the Corniche, around Abu Dhabi island or to visit the outlying desert islands.

Guide price: Call for details ART MARINE

04 3388955 or yas.charter@artmarine.net Take a cruise along Abu Dhabi's coastline and explore the islands, or charter a yacht for a fishing adventure.

Guide price: From AED750 per hour

4

T HE GUI D E / e xp e r ie nce

capt. tony's

aRaBIan aDVEntUREs

The Yas Island-based boat tour company offers a range of cruises around the Abu Dhabi waters which can be tailored to suit guest preferences. Other aquatic activites include a stand-up paddle boarding island-hopping tour.

Take a four-wheel drive journey over the rolling dunes of the desert, visit camel camps, watch the stunning Arabian sunset and enjoy a traditional barbecue feast.

02 6507175

02 6911711

Timings: Daily Guide price: Adults

Guide price: Call for details

AED315, children AED290

HILtonIa BEacH cLUB

nEt toURs

02 6811900

Charter the 31-foot, twin-engine Barracuda and enjoy sightseeing along the Corniche, island trips and snorkelling.

Timings: 8am to 8pm.Guide price:Weekdays AED150, weekends AED185. noUKHaDa aDVEntURE coMpany

02 6503600 or noukhada.ae

02 6794658 or info@netgroupauh.com

person for one hour

tHE VILLaGE cLUB

02 4952000

Take a relaxing one-hour cruise along the Corniche or a four-hour cruise to nearby Bahraini Island.

ocEan DIVE cEntRE

02 6441696

Full range of courses available from open water to assistant instructor. Located at Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.

Individual hotels without marinas can also arrange fishing trips on request

desert safari, adults AED275, children AED200. Morning safari, adults AED140

aBU DHaBI sUB aQUa cLUB

Guide price: AED50 per

Guide price: Call for details

Timings: 4.30 to 9.30pm Guide price: Half-day

Guide price: Three-hour island tour AED250 for adults and AED200 for children.

Enjoy a sunset cruise along the Corniche to Emirates Palace, watching dolphins at play.

PADI dive resort with equipment sales/services, private instruction and daily dive charters.

Guide price: Call for details

Diving

02 6773333

050 6146931

Go dune bashing in a 4x4 across the sand dunes as the sun sets, ride camels at a Bedouin camp and then enjoy an Arabic barbecue dinner.

Learn to sail or just enjoy the sailing experience on Hobie 18 and Hobie 16 catamarans.

sHERaton aBU DHaBI

aRaBIan DIVERs & spoRtFIsHInG cHaRtERs

02 6731111 or 050 5409041

Part of the British Club, offers BSAC-certified courses as well as dive trips to Abu Dhabi and the East Coast.

Guide price: Call for details aL MaHaRa DIVInG cEntRE

02 6437377 or divemahara.com

Offers a full range of PADI courses as well as diving trips and watersports.

Guide price: Call for details

Fishing aRaBIan DIVERs & spoRtFIsHInG cHaRtERs

050 6146931

HILtonIa BEacH cLUB

02 6811900

Charter a 31-foot, twinengine boat for a fishing trip for up to six people.

Guide price: AED750 including equipment, soft drinks and water

Hotel boat available for charter for fishing trips or sea cruises. Equipment, bait and beverages are included in the price.

Guide price: AED750

for three hours, AED1,300 for six hours

Guide price: Coastline cruise AED180, island cruise AED300

tHE VILLaGE cLUB

Guide price: AED1,250 per

person for 30-minute city tour MUtaHIDa FLIGHt sIMULatoR

Desert safari

aBU DHaBI cIty GoLF cLUB

aRaBIan nIGHts

Set in the middle of a racecourse, the club has a golf academy and floodlit driving range and offers night golf with tee-off until 8.30pm.

02 4459600 (Nine holes, 6,350 yards, par 70)

Guide price: Accommodation

at The Village ranges from AED1,250 for a heritage room to AED3,750 for a wind tower suite aL MasaooD tRaVEL

02 6212100

Go deep into the Arabian Desert, driving over the towering dunes, before heading to a camp for camel riding, belly dancing, shisha and a barbecue.

Timings: Daily 4 to 9.30pm Guide price: Adults

AED300, children AED240

IN THE kNOW: APPROPRIATE ATTIRE The UAE has a warm climate with year-round sun and very little rainfall. For most of the year, lightweight summer clothing is suitable, but on cooler winter evenings it can be advisable to take out a light jumper or cardigan. you may also want to have something slightly warmer to hand in the heavily air-conditioned shopping malls. Visitors are advised to show their respect for the local culture by dressing conservatively around the UAE. Swimwear may be worn on the beach and at hotel swimming pools, but take care to cover up before going into any public areas. There are no hard and fast rules that state how much skin a person may or may not display, but generally speaking it’s best to cover shoulders and thighs in public areas, particularly family attractions like shopping malls and parks.

The region's first links-style golf course with views of the coast from every hole.

Green fees: Sun to Thu

AED550, twilight rate (after 3pm) AED450. Fri and Sat AED850, twilight rate AED650

Charter a helicopter for business or pleasure and see the capital from a whole new perspective in air-conditioned comfort.

Golf

The corporate travel company organises excursions around the capital.

Visitors can also book an overnight stay at the Arabian Nights Village, a luxurious Bedouin camp in the desert.

yas LInKs

02 8107777 (18 holes, 7,450 yards, par 72)

02 4448866

adults, AED100 for children or AED450 for a family of four

02 6779988

AED525, twilight rate (after 2pm) AED275. Thu to Sat AED675, twilight rate AED350. Includes use of golf cart, water and practice facilities

FaLcon aVIatIon sERVIcEs

to 2pm and 3 to 7pm, Fri 2 to 7pm. Closed Tue Guide price: From AED350 for one hour

Guide price: From AED150 for

Green fees: Sun to Wed

Enjoy fishing off the coast of Abu Dhabi or venture out to the deep sea to try your luck.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

Get the adrenaline pumping on an ultimate thrill ride, or take a more relaxed cruise and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.

Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, this beachfront course offers spectacular views of the Gulf waters and golfers may even spot dolphins.

02 4952000

Slip into the pilot's seat of a life-size Boeing 747-400 simulator and take flight.

800 4044 or theyellowboats.com

02 5578000 or sbgolfclub.ae (18 holes, 7,784 yards, par 72)

including fishing equipment. AED50 for each additional hour

02 5568555

tHE yELLoW Boats

saaDIyat BEacH GoLF cLUB

Guide price: AED400,

Flying

Green fees: Nine holes

Sun to Thu AED145, Fri and Sat AED195. Rates for 18 holes on request. Includes golf cart, water and towel aBU DHaBI GoLF cLUB

02 5588990 National Course (27 holes, 7,334 yards, par 72) Championship course providing a tough, but fair, challenge with a nine-hole putting green, floodlit driving range and golf institute. Also offers night golf on the floodlit course.

Green fees: National Course,

18 holes Sun to Thu AED525, Fri and Sat AED675. Twilight rate weekends AED350, weekdays from 2.30pm AED275. Night golf AED275.

Includes golf cart and unlimited use of practice facilities

Sand course near Abu Dhabi International Airport that provides free transit visas and complimentary transport for those passing through. to Thu AED140, Fri and Sat AED190. AED60 for club hire and AED50 for buggy hire

Paddle out into the Arabian Sea and enjoy four hours of fishing. Noukhada promotes ‘catch and release’.

Guide price: Call for details

02 5758040 (18 holes, 6,450 yards, par 71)

Brown fees: 18 holes Sun

02 6503600 or noukhada.ae

Guide price: Four-hour angler cruise costs AED400, six-hour deep-sea fishing cruise costs AED650

02 6443000

Sky-HIGH SIGHTS

noUKHaDa aDVEntURE coMpa

Big game sport-fishing adventures. Twin diesel sports-fishing boats, tournament tackle and IGFA-certified captains.

BEacH Rotana aBU DHaBI

aL GHaZaL GoLF cLUB

For a bird’s-eye view of the emirate try one of these aerial activities…

Hot air ballooning Take to the skies in a hot air balloon and watch the sun rise over the desert. This serene, yet exhilarating experience is a wonderful way to see the emirate.

Seaplane flight Fly from yas Island to Dubai Creek on a seaplane and see some of the UAE’s most famous sights, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, yas Marina Circuit, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and Burj khalifa.

Helicopter tours Enjoy unrivalled views of the capital from the comfort of a helicopter and see the city’s latest developments such as Saadiyat and Sowwah islands, as well as the emirate’s coastal and desert beauty.

Flight simulator Ever wondered what it’s like to fly a plane?

Mutahida at Al Forsan International Sports Resort offers visitors the chance to fly a Boeing 747-400 simulator and choose the destination too.

Horse racing Racing season is November to March.

For more information visit adec-web.com aBU DHaBI EQUEstRIan cLUB

02 4455500

The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club offers a riding club and show jumping arena with a stable of 100 horses. There are also horse races held on Sunday evenings during the racing season.

Timings: Private lessons 6 to 10am, group lessons 4.30 to 8pm Guide price: Group lessons AED300, 20-minute pony riding AED50

Hot air ballooning BaLLoon aDVEntUREs EMIRatEs

04 2854949

Marvel at the changing colours of the desert landscape at sunrise from above the dunes with a peaceful hot air balloon ride.

Guide price: AED995 for adults, AED850 for 5- to 12-year-olds

Ice skating aBU DHaBI IcE RInK

02 4034200

Located at Zayed Sports City, the rink can accommodate up to 400 skaters. Ice skating and hockey lessons are available.

Timings: 9am to 10pm daily. Thu ladies only Guide price: AED25 per hour.

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Paintball AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Stage a shootout in the wild west or a Pacific warzone with special effects and air-conditioning.

Timings: Weekdays 3 to 10pm, weekends 10.30am to 10pm Guide price: From AED120 for 200 balls ARMED FORCES OFFICERS’ CLUB & HOTEL

02 4415900

ABU DHABI'S GRAND WEEKEND The 2013 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix rolls into the capital from November 1 to 3, bringing 50,000 motor sport fans, the world's best race car drivers and a swathe of celebrities all ready to party the weekend away in style.

The high-octane event, one of the biggest and most glamorous on the city's sporting calendar, is held each year at Yas Marina Circuit, a 5.55-kilometre track that winds around a stunning marina and through the five-star Yas Viceroy hotel.

Tickets sell out and hotel rooms are booked well in advance so it is wise to book early to avoid disappointment. For more information, see yasmarinacircuit.ae

MARINA MALL ICE RINK

02 681 5806

This ice-skating rink at the heart of the mall is ideal for ice skaters of all skill levels.

Lessons are available.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to

10pm, Fri 11am to 11pm Guide price: AED40 for one hour. Includes skate hire, socks and protective pads

Island trips AL FUTAISI GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

02 6666601

Futaisi island has 40 chalets and two villas, as well as other facilities such as a swimming pool, cycling, nature walks and horse riding.

Guide price: Day trips from 9.30am to 6pm cost AED250 per person HILTONIA BEACH CLUB

02 6811900

Up to six people can spend the day relaxing at Bahraini and Futaisi islands with pick-ups, drop-offs, drinks and umbrellas included.

Guide price: AED830

per person

NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

050 7218928 or noukhada.ae

Paddle to nearby islands on this three-hour trip, stopping off to enjoy the quiet life and take photos at areas only accessible by boat.

Guide price: Two-hour

eco tour AED220, 1.5-hour mangrove tour AED150, threehour island tour AED250

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Karting AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Experience motorsport on a smaller scale racing around a circuit in karts for cadets, senior racers and advanced racers. Arrive and drive sessions are available.

Timings: Daily 3 to 11pm Guide price: From

AED120 for 15 minutes

YAS MARINA CIRCUIT

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

This new go-karting centre has 40 karts for both adults and children.

Timings: Tue to Sun 3 to 11pm Guide price: Adults AED120, children under 13 AED100 for 10 minutes

Kayaking NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

050 7218928 or noukhada.ae

Venture into the mangroves on this one-and-a-half-hour kayak tour that is suitable for all levels.

Guide price: AED450 per person

Motor sports DRAG RACING

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Hit 250kmh in five seconds in a drag car driven by a world champion at the Yas Drag Racing Centre, or race your friends in the Chevrolet Camaro SS

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: Three-seat dragster passenger experience from AED500. Formula Yas 3000 experience AED1,200.

Off-road buggies AED200 adults and AED150 children.

FORMULA ONE

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Experience the thrill of Formula One, screeching around Yas Marina Circuit at top speed as a passenger in an F1 two-seater. Alternatively, get behind the wheel of the Formula Yas 3000.

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED11,500.

Formula Yas 3000 experience AED1,200 OFF-ROAD BUGGIES

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Parks & gardens SHEIKH KHALIFA PARK Situated in Al Matar near Al Bateen Airport, the park features gardens that reflect Arabic and Islamic architecture with lakes, fountains and canals.

Timings: 10am to 11pm Guide price: AED1 THE CORNICHE Hire a bicycle or buggy and pedal along the wide open paths. Visit the family beach and spend the day on a sunlounger, or enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the cafés and restaurants.

Timings: 7am to 10pm Guide price: Entry to family beach AED10, sunlounger AED25, buggy hire AED20 for 30 minutes, bicycle hire AED20 per hour

YAS MARINA CIRCUIT

YAS RACING SCHOOL

Visit the pits, team garages and race control with a photo stop at the podium.

Timings: See website for availability Guide price: AED950 to drive, AED350 for hot lap with a driver. Private tuition starts at AED1,500

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Timings: Tue to Sat

10am and 2pm Guide price: AED120

Shooting CARACAL SHOOTING CLUB

02 4416404

Mountain biking NOUKHADA ADVENTURE COMPANY

02 6503600 or noukhada.ae

Take an all-terrain bike ride into the desert. See camels feeding, people riding horses, an Arabian sunset and a star-filled sky.

Guide price: AED250 per person

Skydiving Experience the thrill of a free fall without the fear of jumping from a plane at this wind tunnel located at the Abu Dhabi Country Club.

Timings: Daily 3 to 11pm Guide price: From AED200 for

Drive race cars and sports cars or take a hot lap with a professional driver.

Timings: Weekdays 3 to 10pm, weekends 10.30am to 10pm Guide price: From AED150

Timings: 1 to 10pm Guide price: AED 150 per

Race track tour

800 YAS (927) or yasmarinacircuit.ae

Catering for all skill levels, this expansive sports resort offers Olympic disciplines and sporting clays along with handgun and rifle ranges.

SPACE WALK INDOOR SKYDIVING

person per game including gear and 100 balls

Choose from a variety of pistols and rifles then take aim at the 25m target shooting range. Located at the Armed Forces Officers' Club & Hotel, there is also a 10m simulation shooting range, retail outlet and a coffee shop.

Timings: Sat to Thu noon to 10pm, Fri 2 to 10pm Guide price: 22lr AED180 and 9mm AED205.

AL AIN

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Test your commando skills, take aim and let off a bit of steam.

Race buggies around the circuit with machines for all levels of experience.

10km session

AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 6577601

Guide price: Introductory ticket AED180, family package AED720

Water sports Hotels can organise watersports on request, while some have their own facilities.

Guide price:

Jetskiing AED180 for 30 minutes Wake boarding AED150 for 20 minutes Water skiing AED75 for 20 minutes Wind surfing from AED160 per hour AL FORSAN INTERNATIONAL SPORTS RESORT

02 5568555 or alforsan.com

Learn how to water ski, kneeboard and wake board, or perfect your technique on the obstacle course in a safe, confined environment.

Timings: Weekdays 3 to 10pm, weekends 10.30am to 10pm Guide price: AED125 for one hour or AED280 for a full day

Wildlife parks ABU DHABI WILDLIFE CENTRE

050 6144024 or wrsmuts@emirates.net.ae

See cheetahs, tigers, leopards and other endangered species at this rescue and rehabilitation centre on the outskirts of the city.

Timings: Sat to Wed

9am to 5pm

Guide price: One-hour guided tour AED45 for adults, AED35 for children under 12 years EMIRATES PARK ZOO

02 5633100 or kidsparkuae.com

Meet, touch and help feed a variety of creatures including camels, emus, raccoons, boa constrictor and the park's newest attractions, five fur seals, which can be seen during daily shows.

Timings: Sun to Wed 9.30am to 8pm; Thu to Sat and public holidays 9.30am to 9pm Guide price: AED20 for adults, AED15 for children, AED60 family ticket (two adults and three children). Extra AED5 for the Ocean Park

Camel racing AL MAQAM CAMEL RACE TRACK

02 5839200

Get up early in the winter months for a unique and authentic Emirati cultural experience.

Timings: Fri to Sat 7 to 9am approximately Guide price: Free of charge

Family amusements BAWADI MALL ENTERTAINMENT

03 7840000

Spanning 10,000 square metres, this family entertainment centre includes a 12-lane bowling alley and Fun Ski Village.

Timings: SUN to Wed 10am to midnight, Thu and Fri 10am to 1am.

Guide price: Call for details HILI FUN CITY & ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK

03 7845542

A family-friendly destination with landscaped gardens and a fun park, with nine new rides.

There are cafés and restaurants as well. The adjacent archaeological park dates to the third millennium BCE and makes an interesting day out.

Timings: Mon to Thu 4 to 10pm , Fri 10am to 10pm, Sat noon to midnight. Wed ladies only. Closed Sunday Guide price: Mon and Tue AED35, Wed to Sat AED40, including rides

Golf AL AIN EQUESTRIAN, SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB

03 7026400

(18 holes, 6,584 yards, par 71) Enjoy a round of golf and test out the newly opened back nine holes with lighting and 42-bay driving range, or get some tips from the professionals at the golf academy.

Green fees: Nine holes AED215 on weekdays, or AED245 on weekend; 18 holes AED300 on weekdays or AED390 on weekends. Includes use of driving range and golf cart. Ninehole academy course AED100 AL AIN GOLF CLUB

03 7686808

(Nine holes, Par 3) Sand course with a clubhouse and practice putting green. Clubs can be hired.

Green fees: Nine holes AED50

T HE GUI D E / e xp e r ie nce

5

HILTON AL AIN GOLF CLUB

03 7686666

(Nine holes, par 3) Golf resort with facilities including a health club, two swimming pools and four floodlit tennis courts.

Green fees: Nine holes AED23

Hot air ballooning

Parks & gardens

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

AL AIN EQUESTRIAN, SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB

Guide price: AED950 for adults,

AED800 for 5- to 12-year-olds

Ice skating AL AIN ICE RINK, HILI FUN CITY

03 7845542

Enjoy an ice skating session with family and friends at this Olympic-size ice rink, which also offers ladiesand children-only days. It is located next door to Hili Fun City amusement park.

Timings: Mon to Thu 4 to 10pm, Fri 10am to 10pm, Sat noon to 10pm Guide price: Sun to Tue AED35, Wed to Sat AED35 AL AIN MALL ICE RINK

04 2854949

Enjoy a two-hour horse ride along sandy beaches or take a lesson to improve your skills and confidence. Wildlife rides will be introduced soon.

Camel trekking

Guide price: Free

Shooting

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT

02 8862088

Explore the Rub Al Khali, trekking through vast sand valleys.

Timings: 6am and 8am (40

03 7026500

Try your hand at skeet and trap shooting as well as range shooting from 10 to 50 metres with rifles and pistols.

Timings: Mon to Sat 2 to 10pm Guide price: From

Horse riding SIR BANI YAS STABLES

GREEN MUBAZZARAH HOT SPRINGS At the foot of Jebel Hafeet, Green Mubazzarah is a park of rolling grassy hills with streams, hot springs and waterfalls. It is a popular location for weekend picnics.

BALLOON ADVENTURES EMIRATES

04 2854949

AL GHARBIA

5. Junior GT, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi 6. Quad biking in the desert 7. Paintball

AED90 for 50 rounds

minutes), 4.45pm (25 minutes), 5.45pm (50 minutes) Guide price: AED135 for 40 minutes, AED60 for 25 minutes, AED195 for 50 minutes DANAT JEBEL DHANNA RESORT

02 8012222

Skiing

Experience the beauty of the UAE desert in true Bedouin style - aboard a camel.

BAWADI MALL SKI VILLAGE

Guide price: Ask at reception for details

Polish your snow plough technique on the artificial ski slope or slide downhill on a big rubber ring.

Cruising & sailing

03 7840000

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri 2pm to midnight, Sat 10am to midnight Guide price: Skiing AED60 for two hours, includes equipment

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

02 8015400

Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise around Sir Bani Yas Island, spotting dolphins and dugongs.

Guide price: AED250 for two-hour Royal Bay Ride, lessons from AED200

Kayaking DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

02 8015400

Explore the quiet waters of Sir Bani Yas Island and discover rare birds, fish and wild gazelle.

Guide price: AED60

Mountain biking DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

02 8015400

Explore the rugged landscape of Sir Bani Yas Island with two trails suitable for all levels.

Guide price: AED60 QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT

02 8862088

Water park

Guide price: Sunset

cruise AED250

Start the day with an energising cycle across the desert while the sun rises from behind the dunes.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight Guide price: AED25 for 1.5 hours

WADI ADVENTURE

Snorkelling

Timings: 6am Guide price: AED60

Go kayaking, white water rafting and surfing or test your skills on the adventure course.

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA

Wildlife park

BAWADI MALL SKATING RINK

Timings: Sun, Tue, Wed

Explore the rich underwater world near Sir Bani Yas Island on a snorkelling tour.

ARABIAN WILDLIFE PARK

03 7660333

The ice rink hosts regular skating sessions, monthly family ice shows and hockey tournaments.

03 7840000

This artificial skating rink is suitable for metal blade and roller shoes. There is also a 12-lane bowling alley nearby.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to

10pm, Thu 10am to midnight, Fri noon to midnight Guide price: AED25 for two hours, includes skate hire

Karting AL AIN RACEWAY

03 7686662

State-of-the-art floodlit facility suitable for drivers aged eight years and upwards. Offers 'arrive and drive' sessions for individuals and small groups.

03 7818422

noon to 11pm; Thu noon to midnight; Fri 9am to midnight; Sat 9am to 11pm Guide price: Entry adults AED100, children under 1.2m AED50. Surf pool, kayaking and whitewater rafting AED100

02 8015400

6

Guide price: AED200

Desert safari QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT

Wildlife park

02 8862088

Explore the desert by four-wheel drive, either through the sand dunes or along a flat track.

AL AIN ZOO

03 7828188

A desert-themed zoo with animals from the local area and African savannahs.

Guide price: Nature and wildlife drive AED100, nature walk AED60

Know the law Consumption of alcohol must be within licensed restaurants, pubs, clubs or private venues. Do not consume alcohol if driving.

DANAT JEBEL DHANNA RESORT

Dancing is only allowed in the privacy of your hotel room or at licensed clubs.

02 8012222

Experience the thrills of dube0bashing while exploring the desert in a 4x4 Guide price: Ask at reception for details

Timings: Mon to Wed 2.30 to 10pm, Thu and Fri 2.30 to 11pm, Sat 10.30am to 6pm. Closed Sunday Guide price: AED150 for 15 minutes, AED250 for 30 minutes, AED400 for one hour

Taking up much of Sir Bani Yas Island, this nature reserve is home to free-roaming cheetahs, Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes and much more.

Timings: Dunes 6am,

8.30am, 5.45pm. Flat sand 10.30am, 3.30pm Guide price: AED175

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 7pm; Fri 10am to 8pm Guide price: Adults AED15, children AED5, free for children under three years

02 8015400

avoid addressing Muslim women in public or taking photographs without their permission. offensive language, spitting and hand gestures must be avoided.

Married couples may hold hands in public, but not kiss or hug.

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Shop

From haute couture to traditional souvenirs, Abu Dhabi is a shopping haven with spacious malls and atmospheric souks

Malls

DalMa Mall

MUsHRIF Mall

Abu Dhabi's biggest mall has 480 shops, including speciality retail stores, restaurants and entertainment options.

Abu Dhabi’s newest mall with more than 200 outlets stocking fashion, accessories, jewellery, cosmetics, beauty and electronics, as well as dining and entertainment facilities.

02 5506111

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight HaMDan CentRe

02 6904422

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm

02 6328555

Abu Dhabi

Houses fashion, sports equipment, jewellery and souvenirs at reasonable prices in addition to a cinema complex.

aBU DHaBI Mall

02 6454858

Al Ain al aIn Mall

Abu Dhabi Mall is one of the main attractions on the shopping scene with over 220 retail outlets, plus entertainment options.

Timings: Daily 10am to 1.30pm and 5 to 10.30pm

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am

Spread over three levels with distinctive Islamic architecture, this mall has everything from fashion to furnishings.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri to Sat 10am to 11pm

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to

03 7638883

KHalIDIYaH Mall

02 6354000

to 10pm, Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 3.30 to 11pm al RaHa Mall

02 5562229

Close to Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Island, this mall has an array of fashion outlets plus a cinema and food court.

10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm MaDInat ZaYeD sHoPPInG CentRe & GolD CentRe

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am

to 11pm, Fri 2 to 11pm

02 6333311

The 400 outlets sell just about everything, while the adjacent Gold Centre is the ideal place to browse for gold, diamond and pearl jewellery.

al WaHDa Mall

02 4437000, 02 4437070

With over 150 shops covering three floors, Al Wahda Mall houses fashion, jewellery and beauty stores as well as entertainment and restaurants.

10pm, Thu to Sat 10am to 11pm avenUe at etIHaD toWeRs

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More than 110 shops to choose from offering a wide variety of products from fashion and jewellery to health and beauty.

Timings: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri 2 to 10pm BaWaDI Mall

03 7840000

MaRIna Mall

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thu and Fri 10am to midnight

A retail haven with a waterfront setting, Marina Mall has over 300 stores, a 100-metre-high viewing platform and an ice skating rink.

This newly opened exclusive boulevard is home to almost 40 luxury shops, showcasing designer labels and high-end brands, spread across two levels.

1. Paris Gallery, Abu Dhabi Marina Mall 2. Brosway Clare collection, available from Paris Gallery 3. Sougha boutique, Souk at World Trade Centre 4. The Souk Central Market

al JIMI Mall

Al Ain’s newest and largest mall offers an indoor ski slope, cinema, bowling alley, skating rink, family entertainment centre and almost 400 shops.

02 6818300

800 3844238

Offers over 100,000 square metres of retail and entertainment space spread over three floors, with cinemas, an ice skating rink and a bowling alley.

Timings: Sat to Fri 9am

to 11pm. Gold Centre Sat to Thu 9am to 2pm and 4 to 11pm, Fri 4 to 11pm

Timings: Sun to Wed 10am to

03 7660333

soUKs

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu and Fri 10am to 11pm

Timings: Call for store timings

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Abu Dhabi tHe soUK at WoRlD tRaDe CentRe

02 8107810

Shop for traditional souvenirs, spices, jewellery, perfumes, sunglasses and electronics at this modern souk.

Timings: Sun to Thu 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 11pm

NAVIGATE THE SOUKS Abu Dhabi’s souks offer an authentic shopping experience. With everything from spices to textiles and gold, they are a haven for hidden treasures. Put your bargaining skills to the test, as prices of most items can be reduced by up to 75 percent – except for gold which is sold by weight and the price is more or less fixed. .

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tHe soUK at QaRYat al BeRI

02 5581670

Located next to the Shangri-La hotel is this classy, Arabian-themed souk with Venetian canals and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri 3 to 10pm

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Taste

Superb restaurants and glamorous cocktail bars make Abu Dhabi a stylish and sophisticated choice for fine food and drink

Hotel outlets & promotions

Al mAHA ArjAAn

02 6106666

Al Markaziyah City Café offers Mexican on Mondays, pasta on Tuesdays and Indian on Wednesdays for AED95. An à la carte menu with salad, soup, main and dessert is available on Thursdays and Saturdays for AED75 and Sunday features a seafood buffet for AED130.

City Café – International

Aloft Abu DHAbi

02 6545013

Al Safarat

Asian Tapas Nights at Relax@12, take place every Saturday and Sunday from 5.30pm for AED99 per person. Two glasses of house wine are included in the price. For international fare and lounge-pods-for-two complemented by an eclectic mix of laid-back tunes, don’t miss the evening brunch at Mai Café every Thursday from 6.30pm.

Dine – International Mai Café – International Relax@12 – International WXYZ Bar - Bar

Al rAHA beAcH Hotel

02 5080555

Al Raha Beach Sevilla Restaurant serves tasty international fare while Wanasah is a great venue for those seeking an introduction to authentic Arabian fare.

02 6979000

Tourist Club Area Prego's re-opens this month with a new look and some delicious new dishes that capture the essence of Italian cuisine.

Bay View – Beach restaurant Benihana – American/Japanese Brauhaus – German Essence – International Finz – Seafood Indigo – Indian Prego’s – Italian Rodeo Grill – American steakhouse Trader Vic’s – French Polynesian

centro cApitAl centre

02 4096666

Al Safarat

Contemporary cuisine is served throughout the day at C.Taste while drinks and light bites are available from C.Mondo.

C.Mondo – Lounge bar C.Taste – International buffet

centro YAs islAnD

02 6564444

Yas Island

C.Taste has introduced theme evenings for AED89. Enjoy roasts on Mondays, burgers on Tuesdays, pasta on Wednesdays and barbecue on Thursdays for AED99 per person.

C.Deli – Deli C.Mondo – Lounge bar C.Taste – International buffet

crowne plAzA Abu DHAbi YAs islAnD

02 6563000

Yas Island

Enjoy all you can eat mussels for AED160 per person at Stills every Monday.

Barouk – Lebanese Jing Asia – Asian buffet Stills Bar & Brasserie – European bar and restaurant

Dusit tHAni Abu DHAbi

02 6988888

Al Mushrif

Urban Kitchen is a contemporary Arabian eaterie with live cooking stations and a buffet set-up while Benjarong specialises in the hotel's signature Thai cuisine.

Urban Kitchen – Arabic Benjarong – Thai Dusit Gourmet – Lounge The Capital Grill – Steakhouse Breeze – Bar

02 6561000

Eastern Mangroves On Tuesdays Impressions hosts The Big Brunch, where five open kitchens team up to deliver a huge spread of delicious and creative cuisine for AED225 per person or AED425 with French Champagne.

cristAl Hotel Abu DHAbi

Ingredients – All-day international Pachaylen – Thai restaurant Impressions – Rooftop lounge

Madinat Zayed

emirAtes pAlAce

A special offer on mocktails at Gems Restaurant features refreshing, fruity beverages for AED20 this month.

Ras Al Akhdar

02 6520000

Gems Restaurant – International

cristAl sAlAm Hotel

02 6597666

Tourist Club Area

02 6909000

Dine in style at award-winning Italian restaurant, Mezzaluna or sample some authentic local cuisine at Mezlai, Abu Dhabi's first Emirati restaurant. Sayad serves some of the best seafood in town.

Al rAwDA ArjAAn Abu DHAbi

Al Wahda

2.35 – International &

Choose Continental cuisine from the à la carte menu at Al Dar or the international buffet for speciality dishes. Enjoy light snacks, coffee and cakes at Moka Café.

Vertical – Wine bar

Breeze Lounge – Spanish bar Cascades – International Diwan L’Auberge – Lebanese Etoiles – European restaurant and nightclub Hakkasan – Chinese Havana Club – Wine and cigar lounge Las Brisas – International Le Café & Caviar Bar – Caviar bar Le Vendôme – International buffet Mezlai – Emirati Mezzaluna – Italian Sayad – Seafood

crowne plAzA Abu DHAbi

fAirmont bAb Al bAHr

Al Markaziyah

Bain Al Jessrain

02 4035000

Al Dar – International Moka Café – International

ArmeD forces officers’ club & Hotel

02 4415900

Al Maqtaa

Head to Taverna for lively barbecue buffet nights every Wednesday with two house beverages included for AED120.

Al Bathna – International Kennedy – European Taverna – Tex-Mex

Middle Eastern

02 6166122

Enjoy Vietnamese specialities at Cho Gao or treat yourself to Italian delicacies at Spaccanapoli where every Wednesday there is a special offer on mussels and wine with an unlimited supply available for AED136.

Cho Gao – Asian Heroes Bar – Sports bar Level Lounge – Rooftop bar Spaccanapoli – Italian The Garden – International Vincent’s – Cocktail bar

1. Al Fanar, Le Royal Méridien 2&3. Porto Bello, Grand Millenium Al Wahda 4. Barouk, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island

eAstern mAngroves Hotel & spA

Visit Vertical bar during happy hour from 5 to 8pm when drinks are half price or swing by on a Wednesday for Spanish Night with tasty tapas for AED99 per person. Champagne and strawberries with a chocolate or cream dip can be enjoyed for just AED325.

Al Manzil – International Azur Restaurant – Mediterranean Black Pearl – Piano bar Enigma – Nightclub Sevilla Restaurant – International Wanasah – Arabic

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beAcH rotAnA Abu DHAbi

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02 6543000

Cedar Lounge serves delicious Arabian fare while Frankie's is one of the capital's top Italian eateries.

Cedar Lounge – Lebanese Chameleon – Champagne bar CuiScene – International buffet Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill – Steakhouse Frankie's Italian Restaurant & Bar – Italian The Chocolate Gallery - patisserie

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T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

Grand millennium al wahda

02 4439999

Al Wahda

Tuck into Friday brunch at Porto Bello where a feast of beautifully prepared food awaits for AED 195 per person.

At Toshi, Monday is Noodle Night, Tuesday and Thursday are dedicated to sushi and teppanyaki while the rest of the week is given over to a mouth watering sushi buffet.

YAS ISlAND EATERIES

Jumeirah at etihad towers

02 8115555

Ras Al Akhdar Situated up on the 63rd floor, Quest serves delicious panAsian fare in a vibrant environment accompanied by a stunning panorama. An equally impressive view can be gained on the 74th floor where Observation Deck serves the highest high tea in Abu Dhabi.

Li Beirut – Lebanese Nahaam – International Observation Deck – High tea Quest – Asian fusion Ray’s Bar – Bar Rosewater - International Scott’s – Seafood Tori No Su – Japanese Bice – Italian

Al Wahda – International buffet Porto Bello – Italian Porters – Pub Toshi – Asian

hala arJaan by rotana

02 4180000

Tourist Club Area

Khalidiya Palace rayhaan by rotana

The Gallery all-day dining restaurant offers international flavours served with flair.

02 6570000

The Gallery – International

Ras Al Akdar

hilton abu dhabi

Contemporary seafood restaurant, The Beach has a choice of indoor or al fresco dining overlooking the pool or beach.

02 6811900

Al Khubeirah Chef Guiseppe Mosti has put together a delicious daily organic menu at Italian finedining restaurant, Bocca, a theme continued over the road at the hotel's popular Portuguese eatery, Vasco's.

Arabic Cafe – Arabic Bocca – Italian Cinnabar – Nightclub Escape Restaurant – Beachfront restaurant Hemingway’s – American bar and restaurant Jazz Bar & Dining – Jazz bar La Terrazza – Mediterranean Mawal – Lebanese Royal Orchid – Asian Toki – Japanese Vasco’s – International

hyatt caPital Gate

02 5961234

Al Safarat

Watch the sun set over the terrace and soak up the atmosphere at 18° which offers a culinary journey around the Mediterranean. Greek, Turkish, Italian and Spanish fare is cooked to perfection at this family friendly eaterie which is housed in the distinctive Capital Gate building - the world's furthestleaning manmade structure.

18° – Eastern Mediterranean Lounge – Tea lounge and bar Profiterole – Pastries Privé – Bar

intercontinental abu dhabi

800 423463

Al Bateen

Friday sees a lavish culinary display for the hotel's Marina brunch, which includes cooking stations from Chamas, Boccaccio and Belgian Café. Prices range from AED216 to AED250.

Chamas is a carnivore's dream with 15 different cuts of meat available alongside a selection of salads and sides.

Belgian Café – Belgian bar and restaurant Boccaccio – Italian Chamas Churrascaria & Bar – Brazilian restaurant and bar Piano Lounge – Piano bar Selections – International Fishmarket – Seafood The Yacht Club – Asian restaurant and bar

Horizon – International buffet The Beach – Seafood Sunset Bar – Beach restaurant

le méridien abu dhabi

Best for authentic Italian: Filini - Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island Savour simple Italian dishes from the seasonal menu in a contemporary setting.

Contact 02 6562000.

Best for stunning views: Nautilus – Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi hotel Overlooking the Yas Marina, this Abu Dhabi seafood restaurant is one of the city's most alluring dining destinations.

Contact 02 6560600.

02 6446666

Tourist Club Area Chef Thierry has come up with an adventurous new menu inspired by fresh summer ingredients at Le Bistrot with a three-course set menu available for AED99. Monday is seafood night at Talay.

Al Birkeh – Lebanese Captain’s Arms – English pub Chi Chi’s – Tex-Mex G-Club – Nightclub La Brasserie – International Le Bistrot – French/sustainable NRG Sports Bar – Sports bar Opus Bar – Bar Pappagallo – Italian Talay – Thai Wakataua Terrace – Polynesian outdoor lounge

Best for 'steak lovers': Blue Grill Steakhouse Yas Island Rotana Hearty steaks from the US and Australian Prime Angus Beef are the star dishes of this trendy restaurant, with choice cuts chargrilled to order.

Contact 02 6564000.

le royal méridien abu dhabi

Best for a taste of the exotic: Jing Asia – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island Chefs prepare pan-Asian food to order from live cooking stations, creating a fun and interactive atmosphere.

Contact 02 6563053.

Al Fanar – European Amalfi – Italian Illusions – Nightclub P.J. O’Reilly’s – Irish pub Imago - Bar and restaurant Sax Restaurant Club – International restaurant and bar The Piano Lounge – Cocktail lounge

Best for a lively atmosphere: Amerigos Mexican Bar and Restauant - Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi, Yas Island For creative dishes including prawn ceviche, quesadillas, fajitas and enchiladas.

Contact 02 6562222.

800 101101

Al Markaziyah Watch the city go by as you feast on five-star international cuisine at Al Fanar, the capital's only revolving restaurant.

Brunch is served here every Friday for AED220 per person, which covers unlimited bubbly and an excellent buffet.

mercure centre hotel

02 6333555

Al Markaziyah Couscous fans can book a table at Le Beaujolais on Thursdays this month, where the chef will be serving a series of tasty dishes based around the grain.

Le Beaujolais – Bistro Le Jardin – International buffet Le Privé – French Mood Indigo – Lounge bar Pergola – Sports bar China Restaurant – Chinese

DINE BY CUISINE ARABIC Wanasah – Al Raha Beach Hotel Barouk – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island Diwan L’Auberge – Emirates Palace Hakkasan – Emirates Palace Mezlai – Emirates Palace Arabic Café – Hilton Abu Dhabi Mawal – Hilton Abu Dhabi Li Beirut – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Al Birkeh – Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Marakesh – Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi Pearls & Caviar – Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Shang Palace – Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Al Hawara – The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi ArganaVert – The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi Agadir – The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa Atayeb - Yas Viceroy Hotel Min Zaman – Al Ain Rotana Hotel Makani Café – Hilton Al Ain Eden Rock – Mercure Grand Hotel Jebel Hafeet Al Waha – Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

ASIAN Benihana – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Cho Gao – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Jing Asia - Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island Pachaylen - Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa Royal Orchid – Hilton Abu Dhabi Toki - Hilton Abu Dhabi The Yacht Club Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Quest - Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Tori No Su - Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Talay - Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Soba - Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi China Restaurant Mercure Centre Hotel Wokcano - One to One Hotel, The Village Rouge - Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Hoi Ann - Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Silk and Spice - Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Sontaya - St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Kazu - Yas Viceroy Hotel Noodle Box – Yas Viceroy Hotel The Wok – Danat Al Ain Resort Orient Café – Mercure Grand Hotel Jebel Hafeet

INDIAN Indigo – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Rangoli – Yas Island Rotana Angar – Yas Viceroy Hotel Tanjore – Danat Al Ain Resort

INTERNATIONAL Dine – Aloft Abu Dhabi Al Manzil – Al Raha Beach Hotel

Sevilla Restaurant – Al Raha Beach Hotel Al Dar – Al Rawda Arjaan Abu Dhabi Al Bathna – Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel Essence – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi C.Taste – Centro Yas Island Gems Restaurant – Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi 2.35 – Cristal Salam Hotel The Garden – Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Ingredients – Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa BBQ Al Qasr – Emirates Palace Cascades – Emirates Palace Las Brisas – Emirates Palace Le Vendôme – Emirates Palace CuiScene – Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Al Wahda – Grand Millenium Al Wahda The Gallery – Hala Arjaan by Rotana Vasco’s – Hilton Abu Dhabi Selections – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Chamas Churrascaria & Bar – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Nahaam – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Rosewater – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Horizon – Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana La Brasserie – Le Méridien Abu Dhabi L’Opera Brasserie – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Le Jardin – Mercure Centre Hotel Citrus – Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi Resto – One to One Hotel, The Village The Village Club – One to One Hotel, The Village Horizon Restaurant – Oryx Hotel West Side – Oryx Hotel The Café – Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant – Park Inn Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Mint – Park Inn Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Ginger All-Day Dining – Park Rotana Teatro – Park Rotana Assymetri – Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island Oceana Grill – Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Noche – Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Sofra Bld – Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri Cloud Nine – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Flavours – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Downtown – Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel La Veranda – Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel Corniche All Day Dining – Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Optimist – The Royal Hotel Abu Dhabi Fairways – The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa Afya – Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Afya Beach Lounge – Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri Choices – Yas Island Rotana Origins – Yas Viceroy Hotel Zest – Al Ain Rotana Hotel Ayla Restaurant – Ayla Hotel

Arabesque – Danat Al Ain Resort Flavours – Hilton Al Ain Paco’s – Hilton Al Ain Tides – Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort The Palm – Desert Islands Resort & Spa Al Badiya – Tilal Liwa Hotel

MEDITERRANEAN Azur Restaurant – Al Raha Beach Hotel Prego’s – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Breeze Lounge – Emirates Palace Mezzaluna – Emirates Palace Frankie’s – Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Porto Bello – Grand Millenium Al Wahda Bocca – Hilton Abu Dhabi La Terrazza – Hilton Abu Dhabi 18° – Hyatt Capital Gate Boccaccio – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Bice – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Pappagallo – Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Amalfi – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Sevilo’s – Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi Beach House – Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas Filini – Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island Oro – Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi La Mamma – Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Olea – St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Amici – Yas Viceroy Hotel Luce – Danat Al Ain Resort Casa Romana Restaurant – Hilton Al Ain Zaitoun – Danat Jebel Dhanna Resort Ghadeer – Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

SEAFOOD Finz – Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Le Café & Caviar Bar – Emirates Palace Sayad – Emirates Palace Cedar Lounge – Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Fishmarket – Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Scott’s – Jumeirah at Etihad Towers The Beach – Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana Oceans Seafood Kitchen & Lounge – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Sennara – One to One Hotel, The Village La Mer – Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche Turquoiz – St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Nautilus – Yas Viceroy Hotel

STEAKHOUSES Rodeo Grill - Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill 18 OZ – One to One Hotel, The Village Park Bar & Grill - Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas 55 & 5th, The Grill – St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Blue Grill – Yas Island Rotana Suhail - Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

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MillenniuM Hotel Abu DHAbi

02 6262700

Al Markaziyah

Citrus – International Cristal Cigar & Champagne Bar – Champagne bar Marakesh – Moroccan Sevilo’s – Italian

Ginger All-Day Dining – International buffet Cooper's Bar & Restaurant – British gastro pub Teatro – International

novotel Abu DHAbi GAte

rADisson blu Hotel, Abu DHAbi yAs islAnD

A wide selection of cuisines from around the world is served in the daily buffet at Horizon for lunch and dinner Restaurant – International Al Gabbiano - Italian Al Nassim Pool bar – Snacks

one to one Hotel tHe villAGe

02 4952000

Al Nahyan

Choose from a wide selection of fresh-caught seafood dishes for AED85 per person at the Sennara luncheon every Saturday. Over at Wokcano the emphasis is on Filippino dishes this month with an open buffet for AED90 per person. The Village Club serves up tasty barbecues in an alchol-free environment.

18 OZ – Steakhouse Resto! – International buffet Sennara – Lebanese seafood The Village Club – International Wokcano – Asian

oryx Hotel

02 6810001

Al Khalidiyah Choose steak, salad and seafood from the à la carte menu and enjoy a dazzling view of the city as you dine at Horizon before heading to Blueline Bar for a nightcap.

Blueline Bar – Bar Horizon Restaurant – International West Side – International

PArk HyAtt Abu DHAbi Hotel & villAs

02 4071234

Saadiyat Island 7

For some of the best steak in town, book a table in the evenings at Park Bar & Grill, where grade A cuts of beef are complemented by premium vintages from the venue's extensive wine cellar.

Beach House – Mediterranean Park Bar & Grill – Steak and seafood/bar The Café – International The Library – Tea lounge The Park Bar – Cocktail bar

PArk inn yAs islAnD, Abu DHAbi

02 6562222

Yas Island

Every Wednesday Ameringo's Mexican Bar & Restaurant honours the simple steak.

Choose your favourite cut from a wide selection and complement it with a range of sauces and sides. Choose the meat from the trolley and watch as it's cut in front of you and weighed. Diners who can guess the correct weight get to enjoy their meat for free.

Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant – Mexican Mint – International buffet

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Al Matar

Sevilo's runs a Mamma Mia Serata promotion every Thursday offering guests an Italian feast of antipasti dishes, two mains and dessert for AED160.

Bain Al Jessrain

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02 6573333

Soak up the creative atmosphere at Teatro and take your pick from the mouthwatering selection of fushion dishes on the menu which hail from Thailand, Japan, Italy, India, China and beyond.

02 5089999

5&6. Sontaya, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort 7. Filini, Radisson Blu 8. Li Jiang, The Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi Grand Canal

PArk rotAnA

02 6562000

Yas Island

Assymetri will run a Flavours of Asia night every Wednesday and an Arabian-themed buffet dinner on Thursdays this month.

Friday is World of Curry night with a focus on spicy, Indian cuisine while during the day a range of cuisines will be available at the restaurant's weekly brunch for AED195 per person.

Assymetri – International buffet Fast Track Lobby Bar – Cocktail lounge Filini – Italian restaurant and bar

ritz-cArlton Abu DHAbi, GrAnD cAnAl

02 8188888

Bain Al Jessrain Ladies clad in red attire are invited to enjoy select beverages for AED5 at Sorso on Tuesdays from 8pm to midnight.

Wednesday is dim sum night at Li Jiang - enjoy the delicious, home-made parcels for AED50 and from September 15 to 21, the restaurant will celebrate the Chinese mid-Autumn festival with hand-crafted mooncakes in a series of traditional flavours.

Giornotte – International The Forge – Steak house Li Jiang – Asian Mijana – Lebanese Sorso – Bar Dolce – Italian Café Al Fresco – Pool bar Alba – lobby lounge

roseWooD Abu DHAbi

02 8135550

Al Maryah Island Sambusek serves authentic Lebanese fare with an emphasis on fresh seafood while Aqua offers a special antipasti platter for lunch to accompany à la carte dishes based on Northern Italian cuisine.

Catalan – Spanish La Cava – Wine cellar Hidden Bar – Lounge bar Aqua – Italian Sambusek – Lebanese

sHAnGri-lA Hotel, QAryAt Al beri

02 5098555

Bain Al Jessrain Participate in the Mooncake festival celebrations at Shang Palace. Bord Eau serves exquisite French cuisine in a romantic setting overlooking the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Put your palate to the test at the new Wine Club evenings with the hotel's head sommelier, Eduardo Perez and sample a selection of premium vintages.

Al Hanah – Wine bar Bord Eau – French Hoi An – Vietnamese Pearls & Caviar – Mediterranean restaurant and bar Shang Palace – Chinese Sofra bld – International

sHerAton Abu DHAbi Hotel & resort

02 6773333

Al Markaziyah Tuck into a generous spread of artisan cheeses from September 14 to 13 at La Mamma then on September 16 head over to El Sombrero to celebrate Mexican Indpendence Day with an 'all you can eat' feast of authentic cuisine.

B-Lounge by Beachcomber – Outdoor lounge Bravo Tapas Bar & Restaurant – Spanish Cloud Nine – International El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant – Mexican Flavours – International La Mamma – Italian The Tavern – English pub The Beachcomber – Tapas

sHerAton kHAliDiyA Hotel

02 6666220

Al Khalidiyah Downtown restaurant has a three-course set dinner menu every night starting from AED99, which includes soup, main course and dessert. During the day there is a business lunch from noon to 4pm for AED85.

Downtown – International La Veranda – International buffet The 3rd Avenue – Bar

sofitel Abu DHAbi cornicHe

02 8137777

Al Markaziyah Feast on fresh Gulf seafood prepared in a French style at La Mer or dine on aromatic Thai cuisine at Silk and Spice.

After dinner head down to Jazz n' Fizz for live music and cocktails late into the night.

Corniche All Day Dining – International Jazz ’N Fizz Bar – Bar La Mer – French seafood Silk and Spice – Thai

tHe st.reGis Abu DHAbi

02 6944444

Al Khubeirah The stylish new hotel opened its doors last month bringing a number of sophisticated dining options, including the capital's second celebrity restaurant, Rhodes 44, to the fold. Dishes created by the British celebrity chef are also available in the bar next door.

Main courses at the hotel's signature Italian restaurant, Villa Toscana, begin at AED120 and include a delectable home-made lobster ravioli.

Rhodes 44 – International Villa Toscana – Italian Café 44 – Patisserie Azura - Lounge Crystal Lounge - Bar The St. Regis Bar - light snacks

tHe st. reGis sAADiyAt islAnD resort

02 4988888

Saadiyat Island Soak up the stunning view of Saadiyat Beach while enjoying exquisite fare at Southeast Asian eaterie, Sontaya or head down to Turquoiz and select some seafood specialities from the new menu.

55th&5th, The Grill – Steakhouse Olea – Mediterranean Sontaya – Southeast Asian Turquoiz – Seafood

T HE GUI D E / T A S T E

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ARABIC TASTE

Al Ain

tHe RoyAl Hotel Abu DHAbi

Al Markaziyah Al Hawara offers Lebanese cuisine on the rooftop with stunning views of the sea while Basil serves tasty Indian fare, including some very spicy curries.

Al Hawara – Lebanese Basil – Indian Optimist – International

Al Ain RotAnA Hotel

03 7545111

Al Muwaiji

tHe westin Abu DHAbi Golf ResoRt & spA

Sas Al Nakhl Mouthwatering pastillas and delicious tagine followed by exotic desserts are on the enormous menu at Agadir, which serves some of the best Moroccan cuisine in town.

Relax after a game of golf at The Retreat or round off the night with a cocktail at Lemon & Lime.

Agadir – Moroccan Fairways – International Lemon & Lime – Bar The Retreat – Bar

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Enjoy flavours from around the world at the Afya international buffet.

Afya – International buffet Afya Beach Lounge – Barbecue

yAs islAnD RotAnA

02 6564000

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

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

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.

Yas Island

Some of the best steaks in town are accompanied by a selection of fine wines from Argentina, America and Australia at Blue Grill. A wide selection of cuisines from across the world is available at the Choices buffet.

yAs ViceRoy Abu DHAbi

02 6560600

Yas Island

Sir Bani Yas Island

Ayla Restaurant – International Tamra Cafe – Tea lounge

DAnAt Al Ain ResoRt

03 7046000

Al Nyadat East The Wok has a seafood night every Tuesday for AED99.

Alternatively, visit Arabesque on Thursdays for its buffet of lobster, shrimps, oysters and mussels, for AED140.

Blue Grill – Steakhouse Choices – International buffet Rangoli – Indian Y Bar – Bar

9. Turquoiz, St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort 10. Le Deck, Monte-Carlo Beach Club 11. Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill, Fairmont Bab al Bahr

Al Nawafeer Terrace – Arabic snacks and shisha Arabesque – International Horse & Jockey Pub – English pub Luce – Italian restaurant and nightclub Shooters – Sports bar Tanjore – Indian The Wok – Asian

Angar serves gourmet Indian fare complimented by a range of Indian beers and refreshing Lassi yoghurt drinks while Amici specialises in tasty Italian cuisine in a sophisticated setting. At Kazu, fill your plate from the sushi and sashimi bar then select a premium sake to enjoy with the meal.

MeRcuRe GRAnD Hotel Jebel HAfeet

03 7838888

Jebel Hafeet

Amici – Italian Angar – Indian Atayeb – Arabic Kazu – Japanese Nautilus – Seafood Noodle Box – Asian Origins – International buffet Rush – Cocktail bar Skylite – Cabana lounge

Eden Rock serves tasty Arabian fare while at Lawrence’s Lounge Ladies receive a free cocktail on Thursday nights.

Eden Rock – Arabic Le Belvedere – French-Mediterranean Lawrence's Lounge – Bar Orient Café – Oriental

BiLL PLEASE

C-View – Lobby lounge Gazebo – Shisha café L’Attitude – Cocktail bar and lounge Tides – International Zaitoun – Italian

AylA Hotel

Ayla Restaurant hosts themed buffets throughout the week.

Highlights include the seafood lovers’ night on Thursdays, which costs AED130 each, or AED159 if you'd like to include a small bottle of Champagne. Add half a kilogram of giant lobster for AED108, or a full kilogram for AED200. Visit the restaurant on Fridays for the Namaste night, where diners can enjoy a traditional Indian dining experience for AED100 per person.

Bain Al Jessrain

Tides serves Asian and Continental dishes while Zaitoun offers Italian fine dining Relax at Gazebo with a shisha in the evenings.

DeseRt islAnDs ResoRt & spA

Al Mutaredh

02 5108888

Ruwais

Min Zaman – Lebanese Moodz – Lounge bar and club Trader Vic’s – French Polynesian restaurant and bar Zest – International

03 7610111

tRADeRs Hotel, QARyAt Al beRi

DAnAt Jebel DHAnnA ResoRt

02 8012222

At Zest, there’s steak ‘n’ barbecue night every Monday from 6.30 to 10.30pm where guests can select their favourite cuts to be grilled before their eyes for AED168 per person. Seafood night at Zest takes place every Wednesday from 6.30 to 10.30pm and costs AED185 per person.

02 6169999

Hummous: 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.

Al GHARbiA

02 8152222

02 8015400

Book a table on the terrace at Amwaj restaurant and enjoy a selection of dishes from the modern tapas style menu in a stunning, waterfront setting before indulging in some of the chef's homemade ice cream.

Alternatively, dine on delectable seafood at Samak, where the resident salt guru can advise you on the best condiments to complement your dish.

Samak – Seafood The Lounge – Lounge bar Amwaj - Tapas The Palm – International

QAsR Al sARAb DeseRt ResoRt by AnAntARA

02 8862088

Liwa Desert Treat the taste buds to an eclectic feast at the Al Waha buffet, which features food from countries around the world. Prices range from AED130 per person for breakfast to AED175 for lunch and AED200 for dinner. Book the couple's dine-by-design experience and enjoy a tent to yourselves in the middle of the dunes with a private butler to wait on you. Prices start at AED520 for the four-course meal option.

Al Liwan – Lobby lounge and bar Al Waha – International/Emirati Ghadeer – Mediterranean Suhail – Steakhouse

tilAl liwA Hotel

02 8946111

Madinat Zayed Enjoy Thursday's seafood barbecue night at Al Badiya restaurant for AED160 or book a table during the week for delicious international cuisine Al Badiya – International Al Liwan – Snacks Layali – Bar

WINING AND DINING

As a general rule, all hotels will add a 10 percent charge to restaurant bills in addition to the six percent fee levied by the government.

Most menus state whether these taxes have already been incorporated into the meal prices or not but check with the waiter if it is unclear.

Although the UAE is a Muslim country, alcohol is permitted in several emirates including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Wine, Champagne and spirits are available in most five-star hotels, but be warned, there is zero tolerance to drink-driving and being drunk in public is a crime, both punishable with a fine and in more serious cases imprisonment.

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hERiTAGE ViLLAGE Designed to resemble a traditional oasis village, this quaint attraction provides an interesting glimpse into the emirate’s past. There’s a bedouin tent, reconstructions of original date palm houses, an example of the ancient falaj irrigation system and a small spice shop selling dried herbs and other trinkets.

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bin t ed e m tre al mushrif s m a a oh if children garden m hal al mushrif k palace abu dhabi equestrian club & abu dhabi golf club

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Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana C3 hilton Abu Dhabi Capital Grand G7 Aloft Abu Dhabi F7 Al Raha beach hotel M5 Al Rawda Arjaan by Rotana D4 Armed Forces Officers’ Club and hotel G8 beach Rotana Abu Dhabi D3 Centro Capital Centre by Rotana F7 Centro Yas island M4 Cristal hotel Abu Dhabi C3 Cristal Salam hotel D3

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Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi C3 Crowne Plaza, Abu Dhabi Yas island M4 Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi E5 Eastern Mangroves hotel & Spa

by Anantara G6 Emirates Palace A5 Fairmont bab Al bahr h7 Grand Millennium Al Wahda D4 hala Arjaan D2 hilton Abu Dhabi b4 hyatt Capital Gate hotel F7 interContinental Abu Dhabi b5 Jumeirah at Etihad Towers b5

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abu dhabi national exhibition centre

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EMiRATES PALACE The iconic palace stands in pride of place at the tip of the Abu Dhabi Corniche and embodies the luxury lifestyle the capital has cultivated. until recently the most expensive hotel ever to be built, the impressive structure is richly adorned with precious materials.

12 different shades of marble can be spotted in the cavernous atrium, while the central dome holds dual records as both the largest in the world and the greatest gilded expanse ever created in one building.

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by Rotana b5 Le Méridien Abu Dhabi D3 Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi C3 Mercure Centre hotel C3 Millennium hotel Abu Dhabi C3 Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate i8 One to One hotels - The Village D4 Oryx hotel b4 Park inn, Abu Dhabi Yas island M4 Park Arjaan by Rotana h6 Park hyatt Abu Dhabi hotel & Villas G1 Park Rotana h6

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Radisson blu hotel, Abu Dhabi M4 Yas island Rosewood Abu Dhabi D3 Shangri-La hotel, Qaryat Al beri h7 Sheraton Abu Dhabi hotel & Resort C2 Sheraton Khalidiya C3 Sofitel, Abu Dhabi Corniche C3 Staybridge Suites, Abu Dhabi Yas island M4 St. Regis Abu Dhabi b4 St. Regis Saadiyat island Resort F1 The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal h7

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The Royal hotel Abu Dhabi The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa 48 Traders hotel, Qaryat Al beri 49 Yas island Rotana 50 Yas Viceroy 46 47

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YAS WATERWORLD Yas Waterworld is the newest addition to the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressive portfolio of sport and leisure attractions. Included among the 43 rides, slides and attractions here is the first hydromagnetic-powered six-person Tornado waterslide and the largest FlowBarrel 10 Double sheet-wave ride in the world.

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FERRARI WORLD ABU DHABI The first ever Ferrari theme park is home to Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster on the planet, which reaches speeds of up to 240 kilometres per hour. Other rides include G-Force, which climbs up through the open roof, affording spectacular views of Yas Island, before hurtling 62 metres back to earth and the Fiorano GT Challenge, which offers an exhilarating simulated racing experience. There are rides for all the family here, from fast-paced coasters to leisurely tours and interactive games.

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SHEIKH ZAYED GRAND MOSQUE Built by the late Sheikh Zayed to help build a bridge between faiths and create greater cross-cultural understanding, the Grand Mosque is a must-see for any visitor to Abu Dhabi. The third-largest mosque in the world, this majestic structure is wrought from over 1,000 columns and 82 domes embellished with semi-precious stones, gold and marble. Inside, the spectacle is equally impressive with glittering chandeliers, spectacular floral motifs adorning the walls and a vast hand-woven Persian carpet in the main prayer hall.

ZAYED BRIDGE AL MAQTAA BRIDGE

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H Boutik Mall Carpet Souk The Souk at World Trade Centre Dalma Mall Fotouh Al Khair Centre Hamdan Centre Iranian Souk Khalidiya Mall Liwa Centre Madinat Zayed Shopping and Gold Centre 16 Marina Mall 17 Paris Gallery 18 The Souk at Qaryat Al Beri

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YAS MARINA CIRCUIT Home to the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina Circuit is one of the capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous sporting attractions. Visitors can experience it all year round at one of the many events on the annual calendar or on a tour that takes in its state of the art facilities, from the drag strip and karting centre to the track itself, which boasts the longest straight in Formula 1.

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J HERITAGE/CULTURE Al Hosn Palace Al Qibab Art Gallery (Villa 3, Street 5, Al Zaab)

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Ask the concierge desk for a copy of the Concierge Abu Dhabi foldout map with tips on what to see and do in the city

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Cultural Foundation Falcon Hospital Gallery One Ghaf Art Gallery Hemisphere Design Studio & Gallery Heritage Village Manarat Al Saadiyat Salwa Zeidan Gallery

www.conciergeabudhabi.com

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Abu Dhabi City Golf Club Abu Dhabi Golf Club Al Ghazal Golf Club Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Yas Links

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Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Al Bateen Dhow Yard Al Maqtaa Bridge Breakwater Bus & Taxi Terminal

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Emirates Palace Ittihad Square Khalifa Mosque Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed the Second Mosque 11 Volcano Fountain

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Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club Abu Dhabi Sailing & Sub Aqua Club

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Al Forsan International Sports Resort Art Marine yacht charters Falcon Aviation Services (helipad base) Ferrari World Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club Monte Carlo Beach Club Shooting (Caracal Shooting Club) Yas Marina Circuit Yas Waterworld Zayed Sports City

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{

My life in Abu Dhabi Antonio Neto, founder and owner of Capt. Tony’s, gave up a career in architecture to pursue a long-held dream of life on the sea and hasn’t looked back since

}

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1 Departing Yas Marina 2 Island-hopping excursion

I am an architect by trade and moved to Abu Dhabi in 2008 to work for a wellknown Australian practice. Recently, however, I made the radical decision to give up my career and pursue my passion for boats and sailing. Having grown up in the beautiful waterfront town of Cascais in Portugal, I have deep-rooted ties to the sea and have long cherished the idea of working in the maritime tourism industry. So, last year, I turned this dream into a reality and established Capt.Tony’s, Abu Dhabi’s first eco-conscious boat tour operator.

The UAE capital has a lot of natural treasures and my aim is to provide visitors and residents with a low-impact, low-cost way to explore them. Among these are the mangrove forests, which are rich in plant and animal life and pristine beaches and sandbanks on untouched islands just off the shore. Capt Tony’s offers visitors different ways to explore these, from leisurely boat cruises around the archipelago to stand-up paddle boarding tours through the mangroves.

I now spend as much time as I can at sea, helping my crew deliver our tours and mingling with guests, many

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of whom have become regulars. My children enjoy spending time on the water too and we’ll often go stand-up paddle boarding as a family around Yas Marina at weekends. Abu Dhabi is a very ‘family-friendly’ city. Children are welcome everywhere and there’s a great sense of community, which is one of the things I like most about living here. My kids often play at our Emirati neighbour’s house and it’s nice to see that kind of interaction.

One of the most important things to me in creating Capt. Tony’s is to keep our environmental footprint to an absolute minimum. We cruise at low speeds and run low-horse-power, four-stroke engines, which we plan to replace in the future with new electric and solar-powered models. We are also dedicated to supporting local economies – the company f leet comprises boats built in UAE shipyards and the food and drinks served on board are supplied by local restaurants. I want to make sure we lead by example and help to educate others about the importance of preserving the natural environment in Abu Dhabi, which is well worth saving.

“The UAE capital has a lot of natural treasures and my aim is to provide visitors and residents with a low-impact, low-cost way to explore them”

Antonio neto’s top three recommendAtions in Abu dhAbi:

to dine: For an indulgent meal, the butter chicken at Angar in Yas Viceroy is hard to beat to visit: I always take guests to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s Abu Dhabi’s main attraction to attend: Abu Dhabi runs loads of great events throughout the year, particularly the F1 weekend in November and the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in December

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