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A supplement to BBC Good Food Middle East.

EPublication S Clicensed A Pby Dubai E SProduction City,1DCCA

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR: Michael Jabri-Pickett mjp@cpimediagroup.com EDITOR: Sophie Voelzing sophie.voelzing@cpimediagroup.com ONLINE EDITOR: Emma Hodgson emma.hodgson@cpimediagroup.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR OF SALES: Michael Phillips SALES MANAGER: Carol Owen SALES MANAGER: Liz Smyth bbc.sales@cpimediagroup.com

Restaurants featured in this guide are included on a sponsored basis. Details are correct at the time of going to press, but offers and prices may change.

MARKETING Isabelle Mills marketing@cpimediagroup.com DESIGN Froilan A. Cosgafa IV FOR OTHER ENQUIRIES, PLEASE VISIT: www.bbcgoodfoodme.com FOUNDER CPI MEDIA GROUP Dominic De Sousa (1959-2015)

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INTRODUCTION

Are you planning your next escape? As residents of Dubai, we’re blessed to be surrounded by so many short-haul, sought-after holiday destinations. Whether it be an hour’s drive to Abu Dhabi or a little further to Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE alone has many options on offer for when you need a short break away. Alternatively, we’re able to hop on a flight for a few hours to world-class, dreamy destinations like the Maldives, Mauritius or Seychelles. Inside the inaugural edition of Escape Dubai, we take a look at some of the best resorts that are located within a short radius of Dubai – some of which are currently offering fantastic deals. Whether it be for a daycation, a short trip or an extended relaxing holiday, these destinations are perfect for those living in Dubai looking to getaway. All that’s left to do is have a flick through, book your stay and pack the suitcase for your next escape. Happy Holidays!

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© Copyright 2018 CPI Media Group FZ LLC. All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

The editorial team Sophie Voelzing & Emma Hodgson

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CONTENTS May 2018

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COVER Dreamy skies and crystal blue waters await in the Republic of Maldives at the stunning resort of Kandima Maldives.

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Ajman Hotel p.04 Emirates Palace p.06 Fairmont Bab Al Bahr p.08 JA Enchanted Island Resort p.10 Kandima Maldives p.14 Rixos The Palm Dubai p.16 The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah p.18

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CONTENTS

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Enjoy an island-style atmosphere E S C A P E

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Your next luxury getaway awaits at Ajman Hotel Make your next break an unforgettable discovery in one of the best family resort in the Northern Emirates; featuring 168 rooms and 14 suites with modern Arabic décor and overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Ajman Hotel oﬀers the perfect destination to unwind with its white-sand private beach, a wide variety of culinary oﬀerings and endless leisure facilities for your entire family.

Special oﬀer for UAE & GCC Residents: One-night stay for two persons Complimentary breakfast for two at the all-day dining restaurant Café Naseem Complimentary WiFi Complimentary access to the Kids Club Complimentary access to the gym, steam and sauna facilities

Price starting from AED 350

(exclusive of 20% tourism fees and 5% VAT) Terms and conditions apply.

+971 6 714 5555 | reservations@hotelajman.com

AJMAN HOTEL

Ajman, United Arab Emirates

our next step to paradise is just a drive away… Only a 30-minute drive away from the buzz of downtown Dubai, Ajman Hotel will be your next escape to a fivestar luxury oasis on the shores of the shimmering Arabian Gulf. As Ajman is the smallest of the seven Emirates and a true yet undiscovered gem in the mystical UAE with a lot of secrets left to be uncovered. Ajman Hotel boasts ten food and beverage outlets, plus endless leisure facilities, whilst 168 rooms and 14 suites, all of them are featuring modern Arabic décor and overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

Enjoy an exclusive offer and make your next break an unforgettable discovery in one of the gems family resort in the Northern Emirates. Ajman Hotel unveils a Staycation offer for UAE & GCC Residents including:

• One-night stay for two persons • Complimentary breakfast at the all-day dining restaurant Café Naseem • Complimentary WiFi • Complimentary access to the Kids Club • Complimentary access to the gym, steam and sauna facilities Starting from AED 350

(exclusive of 20% service charge and 5% VAT)

THINGS TO DO HERE

Ajman Hotel offers the perfect destination for your entire family to unwind and recharge at one of the most beautiful whitesand private beaches in UAE, with nearby swimming pools for adults and kids, and explore an array of recreation activities such as tennis, volleyball, jet skiing, kayaking and sailing. For those who are looking for a relaxing experience, Softouch Spa is offering an ultimate luxury relaxation right by the seaside

– a Balinese massage in an outdoor beach hut, surrounded by lush green gardens. By dining in one of our ten restaurants and bars, you will enjoy a variety of delectable international cuisine in an authentic yet casual atmosphere. From the signature restaurant Bukhara featuring North-East Indian cuisine, to the traditional delicacies of the Organic Italian restaurant Sabella’s, your taste buds will be carried away to another part of the world and our Arabic Chefs will make sure to let you discover some of the middle-eastern treasures. Enhance your stay with a sundown signature cocktail at Zanzibar followed by a Private Beach Dinner if you are looking for a romantic experience to share with your loved-one.

GET IN TOUCH Tel: +971 6 714 5555 E-mail: reservations@hotelajman.com Web: hotelajman.com Ajman Hotel @ajmanhotel

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EMIRATES PALACE Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

lavishly imagined Arabian fantasy, Emirates Palace is the quintessence of Emirati hospitality. Situated along the Western-most tip of the prime Abu Dhbai Corniche, Emirates Palace is owned by the Government of Abu Dhabi and was built to host world leaders, business travellers and holiday-makers from around the world. Stretching over one million square meters and replete with 24K gold leaf finishing, Swarovski chandeliers, arabesque mosaic tiles and marble from around the world in hues of the desert sand, Emirates Palace is an architect’s dream and a sight to behold. Arrive in style and be whisked away through the magnificent gates to this special place. With over 1,200 staff to cater to your every whim, guests are welcomed with dates and fragrantly spiced Arabic coffee. A key shaped like an antique golden coin, reveals a magical place with Indian silk walls, silk brocade sofas and textiles, and Romanesque bath tubs. Escape the pressures of this world where

serenity meets luxury and where you have your own personal butler at your beck and call.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

Offering a myriad of entertainment and dining options with the added allure of a resort experience in the heart of a cosmopolitan city, Emirates Palace is the ideal haven for both leisure and business travelers. A flawless gourmet symphony awaits you with fourteen restaurants, cafés lounges and bars punctuated by the captivating feeling of being in your very own Palace. Prepare to be serenaded through Italian gondolas that depict floating under Venetian bridges in Mezzaluna to an Emirati escape adorned with traditional Bedouin Kunjah knives and tapestry as you savour authentic flavours created with products sourced for their quality and provenance. With several treasures, like a private marina and a divine Moroccan-inspired spa with the most decadent soulful escapes, Emirates Palace does not disappoint and is

everything you would expect from the UAE’s wealthiest emirate.

A DAY AT THE PALACE OFFER

Plan a perfect day at Emirates Palace with a year-round Spa, lunch and Beach Club offer. Relax beside the pool, workout in the gym, unwind with an indulgent spa treatment and treat yourself to a lunch prepared by top class chefs at Cascades or Las Brisas. Choose between 60, 90 or 120 minutes options below to design your perfect day at the Palace. Prices below are inclusive of all taxes. • 60 minutes – AED 825 • 90 minutes – AED 1100 • 120 minutes – AED 1300 30 minute options • Rejuvenating Body Scrub • Hydrating Body mask • Mini Facial • Mini Feet Treat • Back Neck and Shoulder Massage • Argan Oil Hair treatment 60 minute options • Bespoke Massage • Swedish Style Aromatherapy Massage • Traditional Hammam • Haute Couture Facial • Urbane Male Facial • Body Sculpting Ritual

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‘DAY AT THE PALACE’ DINING OPTIONS

Cascades Emirates Palace’s West Beach Club restaurant Cascades is aptly named for the cascading waterfalls and sea grottos within the water park to which it is adjacent. Situated at the edge of the inviting pool, diners can relax on the terrace and enjoy a breathtaking view of the azure Arabian Gulf while relaxing on a casually elegant terrace. Cascades provides a family-friendly alternative to the East Wing’s Las Brisas for groups seeking an array of outdoor entertainment. With the Kids’ Club, Park and Pool nearby, there is no shortage of activities to keep children of all ages busy whilst the parents linger over a long meal.

Las Brisas Spanish for Breezes, Emirates Palace’s East Beach Club restaurant Las Brisas is aptly named. Situated poolside, leave the city’s hustle and bustle behind and allow the sounds of the sea set to soothe your soul while award-winning chefs prepare a vast array of à la carte cuisine, from locally caught seafood dishes to tantalising signature specialities. Las Brisas provides a tranquil alternative to the family-friendly Cascades Restaurant for individuals and couples seeking silence and poolside relaxation. Surrounded by lush palms and blossoms, guests can relax under the shade of Las Brisas before continuing to soak up the sun.

GET IN TOUCH Tel: +971 2 690 9000 E-mail: reservations.emiratespalace@kempinski.com Web: kempinski.com/abudhabi Emirates Palace @emiratespalace

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FAIRMONT BAB AL BAHR

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

ituated at the gateway to the capital city is Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, a beachfront five-star hotel in Abu Dhabi with unrivalled views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. One of the wealthiest cities in the world, Abu Dhabi lays claim to a fantastic array of architecture, attractions and natural splendour.

WHAT’S ON OFFER

There’s a range of contemporary dining and entertainment venues offer an array of gastronomic delights and culinary experiences atthe Fairmont Bab Al Bahr. Executive Chef Ayoub Makdissi and his award winning culinary brigade bring passion for excellence to each restaurant and lounge. Whether enjoying the culinary artistry at CuiScene, the all-day dining destination to innovative gourmet hamburgers at Poolside, or watching chocolatiers craft delectable confectionary from the finest ingredients

at The Lobby Lounge, guests will enjoy the creativity and distinction of each destination. The hotel is home to Frankie’s Italian Restaurant & Bar, Michelin star celebrity Chef Marco Pierre White’s first steakhouse in the region, Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Grill and modern Japanese cuisine at Café Sushi. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr also presents a Lebanese restaurant Maison Beirut, outdoor Chameleon terrace and indoor sports bar, Sports Cafe.

GET IN TOUCH Tel: +971 2 634 3333 E-mail: babalbahr@fairmont.com Web: www.fairmont.com/abudhabi @fairmontbabalbahr @fairmontbabalbahr

THINGS TO DO HERE

Located just a 45-minute drive away from Dubai, you can enjoy the best of both worlds at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr. It is close to the neighbouring metropolis as well as Abu Dhabi attractions, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi art gallery, the first Ferrari theme park with the fastest roller coaster in the world, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race Circuit, and Yas Waterworld, the region’s largest waterpark.

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Every summer has a story, WHAT WILL BE YOURS?

Make new memories this Summer! Enjoy more sun, more sea, more sand and more of the Seychelles with up to 25% discounts on our Best Available Rates at JA Enchanted Island Resort. Ease into island life with a delicious breakfast, linger in your private pool, wander to the spa, discover underwater treasures and relish Creole cuisine.

For bookings or more information, please call +971 4 814 5678 or email reservations.eir@jaresorts.com jaresortshotels.com

enchantedislandresort

@jaenchantedislandresort

JA ENCHANTED ISLAND RESORT Seychelles

here magical moments are made memorable… Set across five acres of natural greenery, JA Enchanted Island Resort is situated in a private location within one of the Indian Ocean archipelago’s protected National Marine Parks. Guests to the resort can relish in tranquility encircled by white sand, turquoise water, and lush tropical flora.

THE RESORT

The boutique-style resort features a total of eight one-bedroom Private Pool Villas and two two-bedroom Enchanted Signature Villas, which have been designed to reflect the island’s traditional Creole-Seychellois architecture. This makes it perfect for a romantic and secluded getaway. Each villa has its own private infinity pool, a direct walkway to the beach, outdoor deck and rain shower, a French bathtub, king-size

bed, LED television with satellite channels, DVD player, iPod docking station and complimentary Wi-Fi. JA Enchanted Island Resort is easily accessible through a short, 15-minute motorboat ride from the the Eden Island Jetty on Mahé, which is a 20-minute drive from the Seychelles International Airport.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

Sitting alongside Castaway Bar, the island’s restaurant, Bounty Restaurant, overlooks the resort’s main swimming pool and serves contemporary international and Creole cuisine. In-villa dining and private gourmet experiences enhance the culinary choices on offer. Leisure facilities include an exclusive beach, a beautifully landscaped swimming pool, and complimentary use of snorkelling equipment and kayaks. Guests will also be able to enjoy an exotic menu of treatments

and therapies at the resort’s Spa. In addition to wellness experiences, the spa also offers yoga sessions - on request, a gym and a number of holistic therapies.

GET IN TOUCH Tel: +248 467 2727 E-mail: reservations.eir@jaresorts.com Web: jaresortshotels.com JA Enchanted Island Resort @jaenchantedislandresort

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Oh - So Stylish KANDIMA.COM #MyKindOfPlace

KANDIMA, MALDIVES Republic of Maldives

elcome to a place where (almost) everything is possible and boredom simply does not exist! Kandima Maldives is a new gamechanging destination that offers a seriously stylish island setting with extraordinary restaurants and bars, and plenty of on-site activities to choose from.

WHAT’S ON OFFER

This contemporary 4-star property is much more than just another resort, we like to refer to it as a lifestyle. Situated in Dhaalu Atoll, this innovative and seriously stylish concept embodies the best of what the Maldives has to offer.

THINGS TO DO HERE

The 272 studios and villas are more than just stylishly comfortable, they are smart! Flexible furniture concepts create the space that works best for you. Select the spacious Family Sky Studio or go all out and stay in the Aqua Villa with Jacuzzi with direct access to the ocean from your own private deck, so you can snorkel and swim to your heart’s content. Families, couples or groups of friends, there’s always something for everyone at Kandima Maldives.

THE LOCAL CUISINE

From perfectly grilled steaks at Smoked to far east fine dining at the Sea Dragon, travel the flavors of the world in one of our unique restaurants and bars. Whether you want to dine as a group, or slope off to somewhere more intimate for a romantic meal for two – we have the perfect place for you. E S C A P E

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ABOUT THE DESTINATION

From the dĂŠcor to the activities through to the cuisine, the Kandima experience challenges the status quo by being smart, playful and different. Kick back and relax at esKape Spa in the on-site steam room or have a fullbody massage whilst listening to the waves lapping. Indulge in one of the many fun outdoor activities such as scuba diving and jet skiing or take part in a yoga class, art class or try your hand at mixology or one of a range of other classes offered on the island.

OUR F&B OFFERING

There are ten restaurants and bars located on this idyllic island paradise. Choose from options including the Smoked grill house, where Maldivian chefs cook up delicious dishes such as Black Cod steak with coconut plank. Indulge your sweet tooth at Aroma CafĂŠ where you can tuck in to a tasty Trinidad sundae.

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GET IN TOUCH Kandima Maldives Dhaalu Atoll, Republic of Maldives E-mail: mykindofplace@kandima.com Web: www.kandima.com kandima.maldives @kandima_maldives

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ULTRA-ALL-INCLUSIVE HOLIDAY ON A PALM ISLAND

Visit Dubai this summer and shop away with amazing offers during Dubai Summer Surprises while staying in affordable luxury on the popular Palm Island. Save 30% with our Ultra-All-Inclusive package giving you unlimited meals and drinks across 8 restaurants and bars, complimentary minibar, watersports, shuttle bus to shopping malls and so much more. For bookings, call +971 4 457 5555 or visit rixos.com

rixos.com

04 457 5555

RIXOS THE PALM Dubai, United Arab Emirates

f living in ultimate luxury, soaking in the sun and sipping drinks on the beach is your idea of the coolest summer escape, Rixos The Palm Dubai should be at the top of your summer bucket list.

Gulf and elevate your summer holiday with 30% discount on an ultra-all-inclusive package which includes unlimited access to a variety of entertainment, leisure activities and dining experiences across 8 restaurants and bars.

WHAT’S ON OFFER

THINGS TO DO

Enjoy the white sandy private beach of Dubai’s most popular Palm Island with 360-degree views of the city’s skyline and the turquoise blue waters of the Arabian

Start your day with an appetizing breakfast buffet at the Turkish-inspired A La Turca Restaurant or kick-start your morning with complimentary non-motorized water sports.

Get around the city hassle-free thanks to a complimentary shuttle bus to The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. You will then have the choice between a picturesque sunset dinner at the resort’s Italian-inspired L’Olivo Ristorante or mouth-watering wet-aged steaks at Toro Loco Steakhouse. The five-star resort promises an ultra-allinclusive vacation not only for adults, but also for the little ones with fun games and group activities at the Rixy Kids Club.

GET IN TOUCH The Palm Jumeirah, East Crescent P.O. Box: 18652, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 457 5555 E-mail: reservation.dubai@rixos.com Web: thepalmdubai.rixos.com RixosThePalmDubai @rixosthepalmdubai

T&C: Offer is valid for stays between 12 May - 30 September 2018, minimum stay of 3 nights applies, offer valid for hotel website bookings only.

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AL ZORAH. BY THE OBEROI.

Nestled amongst lush green mangroves and lined by the white sands of Ajman, find a world away from your world and escape to The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah. Just 25 minutes from Dubai Airport, experience Oberoiâ€™s legendary hospitality and masterfully crafted luxury, this summer and dine on us with a complimentary dinner for two. Offer valid from 15th May â€“ 30th September. For more information, please visit oberoihotels.com or email reservations.toaz@oberoihotels.com

THE OBEROI BEACH RESORT, AL ZORAH Ajman, United Arab Emirates

here five-star luxury meets nature… Set on its own private, white sand beach The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah is perfect for a relaxing long break or weekend getaway. The resort boasts spacious rooms and suites with private terraces, offering luxurious design. A selection of larger villas with private, temperature-controlled pools are also available. Exceptional dining options are available, including the signature all-day fine dining venue, Vinesse, and Aquario, a world-class seafood restaurant. Guests can relax and re-energise in The Oberoi Spa, with a range of treatments, hammam and massage therapies, unwind in the air-conditioned yoga studio and swim in the iconic 85-metre long swimming pool.

THE DESTINATION

Located just 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Al Zorah is a 5.4million square metre destination located along a

breathtaking natural peninsula on the coastline of Ajman, set amongst a million square metres of ancient natural mangroves and lagoons. The community of Al Zorah incorporates hotels and resorts, villas, a Championship par-72 course golf course designed by Nicklaus Design and operated by Troon Golf, marinas with yacht berths, water sports facilities, retail shopping and restaurants. For fans of the outdoors and adventure, Al Zorah offers a range of exciting activities. Guests can kayak through the mangroves on a guided tour of the ecologically rich wetlands and learn about conservation efforts to protect the biodiversity. While thrill-seekers can learn to wakeboard at the dedicated water sports centre. Other options include stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing and archery.

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

From May 15th to September 30th, 2018 (excluding Eid and public holidays), take

advantage of the Summer Offer. From AED1,100++ per night, relax and revive in a luxuriously appointed Premier room with an expansive private terrace, and enjoy a complimentary three-course dining experience (or Iftar during Ramadan) at one of the property’s two world-class restaurants, Vinesse and Aquario. Children under six years stay for free. Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 5% VAT.

GET IN TOUCH Tel: +971 650 448 88 E-mail:reservations.toaz@oberoihotels.com Web: oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-al-zorah-ajman The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah @oberoialzorah

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