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CONTENTS
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08
23
FACT FINDS
LISTEN UP
THE CREATIVES
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45
59
STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT
HOTEL HOTSPOT
FASHION FOCUS
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73
77
NEW IN TOWN
CULINARY SPOTLIGHT
FOODIE CORNER
fact magazine
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• THE EDITOR
THE CREATIVE ISSUE
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"The comfort zone is the great enemy to creativity" - Dan Stevens
W
e finally made it through what felt like 7192 days of summer and the summer of 2020 was unlike any other that we had experienced before. Living through a global pandemic has certainly had its challenges but there is light at the end of the tunnel and we're excited to see life in the UAE return to some
normalcy.
FACT Magazine Dubai Edition • SEPTEMBER 2020 VOLUME 03, ISSUE 10
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES PUBLISHERS EDWARD SMITH RAMI KHALIL EDITOR DAVID TAPLEY (david@fact-magazine.com) ART DIRECTOR SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER JYOTI RAWAT CONTRIBUTORS SAMIA QAIYUM ELANUR SENGEL
Of course, September will bring the humidity and we can't help but feel a sense of celebration with the turn of a new season and our slow adjustment to the 'new normal.' September is our creative issue and we've interviewed some of the most prominent creatives in the region to find out what inspires them and to talk through their creative processes. Read the full feature on page 23. With many of us not getting to escape on a summer holiday this year, we've come up with some exciting local options for you. InterContinental Fujairah Resort is our Staycation Spotlight this month (p39), providing a tranquil escape where the Hajar Mountains meet the Indian Ocean. For a city break with style, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi is our Hotel Hotspot with a special 'eat for your sleep promotion' (p45) If you're looking for a new wardrobe, the dunhill Autumn Winter 2020 collection should provide some menswear inspiration in September's Fashion Focus (p55).
PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION NEIL MAHMOOD AJIT KUMAR SALES COORDINATOR KIA MARIE PLACIDO ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES EDWARD SMITH (edward@ohlala-magazine.com) PRINTED BY UNITED PRINTING PRESS
We're always celebrating food and this month is no different. Shanghai ME is a new East Asian restaurant in upmarket DIFC and is New In Town (p69), our Culinary Spotlight is CÉ LA VI Dubai (p73), and our Foodie Corner is Vanita's at Palazzo Versace Dubai, with its new Secret Parties bunch (p77). We've also got your monthly beauty, tech and entertainment fix. So read on and let us know what you think…
David Tapley Editor david@fact-magazine.com
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All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication. However, FACT M.E. FZ-LLC cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. FZ-LLC, Office 907E, TwoFour54, Park Rotana Complex, P.O. Box 769328, Abu Dhabi, UAE License Number: D.L. 361/17/F
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“
"You can't use up creativity. The more you use the more you have." - Maya Angelou
ISSUU.COM FACT Dubai 71,137 reads of the July/August issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu. com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more in Dubai.
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CHECK IT OUT •
FACT FINDS
TURKISH HOTSPOT ASIL OPENS IN JBR.
A NEW TURKISH RESTAURANT HAS OPENED ITS DOORS AT THE RIXOS PREMIUM DUBAI JBR.
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sil, which means ‘noble’ in Turkish takes guests on a cultural and culinary adventure through the tastes, sights and sounds of Turkey, Lebanon and Morocco. Upon entering the new restaurant located in JBR, guests will be transported into a venue of sumptuous textiles and chandeliers, inspired by the ambience and hospitality of the Arab world. Asil looks to become the next Dubai hotspot for Middle Eastern cuisine and will offer a unique dining experience to guests. Providing an array of dishes to tempt the palate before evolving into a nightlife venue after dinner. Fusing the Arabesque flavours of Turkish, Moroccan and Lebanese cuisine, Asil’s menu presents authentic dishes with a creative and contemporary twist, such as the Hommous Tantouni, a twist on the popular Turkish street food Tantuni, served over Hommous. In keeping with tradition, dishes are served sharing style to the table, allowing diners to sample a wide selection of dishes which range from a hot and cold mezze section including the Köpoğlu (fried cubes of aubergine in a yoghurt dip with a candied tomato jam). Tantalising main courses
include the Ottoman Lamb Shank and the signature Asil Kebab, with a classic Turkish Kunefe served with pistachio ice cream for dessert. Drawing inspiration from the famous nightlife districts of Beirut, Istanbul, Marrakesh and Casablanca, the Asil experience is not complete without the wide selection of inventive mocktails and beverages. House favourites include the Al Amira; which takes traditional Moroccan tea and fuses it with Asil’s own house-made thyme syrup, grapefruit and soda water. Asil will also play host to a daily line up of unique entertainment, including a Henna artist offering complimentary Henna for female guests and Turkish music producer, DJ Mustech on the decks. With all this in mind, Asil certainly sounds like a venue to check out this September. ✤
GO: EMAIL DINE@ASILRESTAURANT.COM OR CALL (0)4 520 0055 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• LISTEN UP
SEPTEMBER EATS AT JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS DUBAI The world's tallest five-star hotel, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is home to some exciting food and beverage offers this month. Ideally located beside the Dubai Water Canal, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is a lifestyle destination home to a collection of award-winning restaurants, bars and nightlife venues. Whether it's tantalising Thai, jubilant Japanese or breakfast delights, a myriad of flavours and casual dining venues including Positano, La Farine Café and Bakery and Bridgewater Tavern await at this Business Bay address. The cliffside village of Positano on Southern Italy's Amalfi Coast is heralded for its abundance in seafood, meat, fruit and vegetables. Experience a taste of Italy right here in Dubai at Italian hot spot Positano where premium produce and a team of talented chefs create some of the most popular Italian dishes for your dining pleasure. Guests can experience authentic coastal Italian cuisine, delicious seafood, handmade pasta, distinctive pizza and homemade gelati. With an array of daily promotions, Positano offers something for every mood, no matter the day of the week. Tuesday to Sunday are all about Aperitivo, where guests can enjoy two beverages and one snack for just AED 89. Pizza lovers will appreciate Tuesdays and can partake in an all-you-can-eat Pizza Offer, where pizzas from a selected menu are priced at AED 95, or upgrade the meal and enjoy five bottles of hops and unlimited pizza for AED 150. Celebrate the weekend with the Festa Italiana Evening Brunch on Thursday and Saturday evenings where you can sample an extravaganza of specialities from coastal Italy. 8
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Expect antipasti, handmade pasta cooked à la minute and a selection of desserts that includes panna cotta, gelato, cassata and other sweet bites. Priced at AED 195 per person (food only), with a beverage upgrade also available. Over at Izakaya, you will meet the famous Sake Boy who will visit your table with his trolley and provide beverage recommendations. The setting is lively, contemporary and atmospheric, which perfectly complements the menu of noodles, sushi and teppanyaki. Take your taste buds on a culinary adventure with a true Teppanyaki experience which is offered daily from 6pm to midnight. It's dinner with a show as Izakaya's team of talented chefs prepared your favourite items from the extensive menu with added pizzazz and flair. Sushi and Bubbles are the name of the game on Tuesdays where you can indulge in a menu of unlimited sushi accompanied by free-flowing beverages while taking in the authentic Japanese surroundings. The offer is available on Tuesdays from 6pm to midnight. with prices starting from AED 175 (including unlimited sushi). There's never been a better time to check out the plethora of options at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. ✤
GO: CALL (0)4 414 3000 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
LISTEN UP •
TOPGOLF IS COMING TO DUBAI Opening at Emirates Golf Club, Topgolf Dubai will be the first sporting destination of its kind in the region. Located at Emirates Golf Club and offering stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline, Topgolf Dubai will see the world’s fastest-growing entertainment concept arrive in the Middle East. Founded in the UK before taking the US by storm, Topgolf is a casual and fun sporting experience that blends American dining, live music and a computer game inspired driving range. Guests won’t be expected to adhere to strict dress codes at this particular driving range, as fun is the name of this specific game. For the uninitiated, Topgolf is a game that anyone can play (and win) where points are scored by hitting micro-chipped golf balls at giant dartboard-like targets on an outfield. The closer you get the ball to the centre or ‘bullseye’ and the further the distance, the more points earned - it’s as simple as that! Topgolf inspires people of all ages and skill levels – even nongolfers – to come together for playful competition and because the microchipped balls instantly score themselves, players are immediately able to see the accuracy and distance of their shots on a TV screen in their hitting bay. The fun and games don’t stop with the sport as the Topgolf experience also includes a menu of delicious food and drinks that are brought to you while you play. Making for a fun
dinner date or social outing with friends. Topgolf is renowned worldwide for its combination of top-shelf drinks, big-screen TVs and music in climate-controlled hitting bays to ensure allseason comfort. Topgolf Dubai will be no different and is set to feature 102 climate-controlled hitting bays, an outdoor patio with fire pits, plus private event spaces and meeting rooms Scheduled to open in Q4 2020, Topgolf Dubai’s sweeping architecture will cover 60,000 square feet, encompassing three air-conditioned floors that will be home to three restaurants, plus a modern mini-golf venue for all ages. Absolutely no golfing experience is required to enjoy the fun of Topgolf, where the objective is to create a global sports and entertainment community and unforgettable shared experiences for all. Rest assured we’ll have more details for you as they are announced. ✤
GO: VISIT TOPGOLFDUBAI.AE OR FOLLOW @ TOPGOLFDUBAI ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• LISTEN UP
AMSTERDAM’S TAIKO RESTAURANT TO OPEN FIRST INTERNATIONAL OUTPOST IN SOFITEL DUBAI WAFI An exciting new addition to Dubai’s culinary scene. Taiko restaurant, the award-winning concept from Executive Chef and founder Schilo van Coevorden, is set to launch its second opening in Sofitel Dubai Wafi this autumn. This will be the brand’s first international outpost and the first time any Dutch chef’s restaurant concept has expanded to the Middle East. Taiko Dubai is set to offer the same contemporary cuisine as Taiko Amsterdam. Inspired by the flavours and textures of the Far East, varying from delicate to dramatic but always surprising and original, the cuisine at Taiko offers a sensational adventure for food aficionados. The move will also mark a return to Dubai for Schilo, where he worked more than twenty years ago at the start of his career. With Schilo’s previous UAE experience, he will be able to take advantage of spices and local produce to create unique specialities such as his Wagyu biryani and watermelon sashimi. Dishes that are bold yet elegant and deliver the perfect symphony of flavours in every plate. Alongside the menu will be Taiko’s signature mixed beverages which take inspiration from a speakeasy in downtown Roppongi, Japan. The beverage menu is accompanied by a refined range of first-class sushi, sashimi, 10
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dim sum and the popular “TFC” (Taiko Fried Chicken). Completing the Taiko experience is the restaurant’s sleek décor and lively ambience which Schilo and the Sofitel Dubai Wafi team will recreate in Dubai. The dark reflective materials and dim lighting will sit perfectly within the hotel’s design, inspired by Egyptian opulence and French sophistication. On the weekends, Taiko’s renowned live drum performances will accompany dinner and DJs will play into the evening, creating a club-like atmosphere. Taiko is set to be an exciting addition to Dubai’s culinary scene, where a realm of exclusive restaurants are drawing in tourists from all over the world. Schilo joins a growing list of internationallyrenowned chefs choosing to make their mark in the Middle East and will sit alongside the likes of Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay and Nobu Matsuhisa. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.SOFITEL-DUBAI-WAFI.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION
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EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE MOVIE STAYCATION AT ROVE HOTELS Stay the night with friends and watch the latest blockbusters from the comfort of a private cinema, along with your own private hotel floor. Rove Hotels are known in Dubai as a lifestyle brand of funky hotels that can be discovered in convenient locations throughout the city. Each Rove property is purposefully designed for the traveller who likes to explore without borders, while receiving fuss-free service and touches of local culture. Rove have come up with the perfect staycation for film buffs that includes, not only a private cinema experience, but also your very own private floor! This September guests (who are affectionally referred to as Rovers) can book the Ultimate Movie Staycation offer at Rove Downtown for a movie night and stay like no other. Gather your nearest and dearest and watch the latest blockbusters from the comfort of your own private cinema, The Reel Boutique. Each booking is inclusive of 10 Rover Rooms, breakfast, a private movie screening from the Reel Cinema catalogue, popcorn and soft drinks. All for just AED 2,999 inclusive of taxes and fees. The Reel Boutique cinema offers a stress-free theatre experience of only 46-seats that is ideal for more discerning film fans. Once inside the theatre, you'll be among only a few dozen cinemagoers
as you take your seat in the sofa-style chairs. Sounds like the perfect excuse for popcorn and chill to us! Within your Rover Room, you can expect all of the essentials, including free Wi-Fi, a 48" interactive in-room TV and comfortable double bed. The modern hotel is situated conveniently close to The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountains and Dubai Opera. It features a 24-hour gym, outdoor pool and sundeck, as well as games in common areas. It's the ideal location for exploring the attractions of Downtown Dubai. The Ultimate Movie Staycation offer is valid for up to 20 Rovers, with additional rooms available at AED 195 per night. So if you've dreamed of a night at the movies, then this could be the blockbuster offer for you. ✤
GO: EMAIL EVENTS@ROVEHOTELS.COM OR CALL (0)4 561 9099 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• LISTEN UP
NIGHTLIFE VENUE B018 WILL LAUNCH IN DUBAI IN 2021 B018 is billed as a music club, a sound ritual and a place of nocturnal survival. B018, a new nightlife concept hailing from Beirut is scheduled to open in Dubai in early 2021. Situated on the outskirts of Dubai Marina, B018 The Sequel is the natural evolution of Lebanon’s infamous bunker, bringing an abundance of music, art and culture to Dubai’s nightlife scene. The original venue was established in the Lebanese capital in 1998 and was named the “Berghain of Beirut” in response to its revolution of the underground music scene in Lebanon. The industrial, urban space became a place that invites everyone to let go and immerse themselves in music. As the brand expands into the UAE, B018 The Sequel pays tribute to its home in Lebanon while evolving into a new era. Representing the yin and yang of life and the balance between darkness and light, B018 in Dubai will be formed of two contrasting spaces, the Tropical Room and the Main Room. The Tropical Room will be filled with lush vegetation, chic furniture and warm, welcoming lighting. The intention is to provide a comfortable yet exquisite space to enjoy beverages created by a team of expert mixologists alongside delectable bar food and enriching conversations. 12
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The Main Room will provide a stark contrast to the Tropical Room, encapsulating the dark gothic energy of the original venue. With an urban aesthetic, exposed metal pipes and industrial structures, guests will be engulfed in the music and encouraged to forget about the outside world. Designed by acclaimed architects Rabih Geha, the Main Room includes the traditional moon bar and coffin-shaped tables, in keeping with the war bunker style of B018 Beirut. The venue will also feature a rooftop lighting system that will welcome the morning at the end of the night, as well as state-of-the-art sound to ensure an exquisite experience. B018 will be a space to revel in the modern ritual that is electronic music. A space that remains unaffected, unlabeled, unpinned and promises to stay true to the music. We’ll see you on the dance floor. ✤
GO: FOLLOW @B018OFFICIAL ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION
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21GRAMS IS BACK The Dubai hidden gem reopens and introduces a new menu. 21grams is the weight of a human soul, the latitude of the Balkan Peninsula and one of Dubai’s hidden gems. Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, 21grams the popular Urban Balkan Bistro has reopened and introduced a new menu. The team at 21grams have created a Balkan bistro that encourages a slow living lifestyle, whilst serving memories of a homeland’s favourite recipes. The warm and welcoming urban bistro is once again open for dine-in with new working hours and a unique point of view. A completely revamped and redeveloped new menu now offers a different point of view across four main categories, connecting the dots of traditional home-cooking with daring, modern Balkan dishes using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients whenever possible. With the new working hour scheme, the team at 21grams will serve breakfasts and lunch (and everything in between) from 8am to 5pm daily, while evenings will be kept for one-offs and special events. Some of the newest, delicious favourites include sarma, sour cabbage rolls with minced beef and smoked wagyu brisket; Adriatic octopus with fennel sauce; and Wagyu beef cevap tartare, a dish that will stun you from the get-go. But don’t worry, some of their crowd pleasingly popular breakfast dishes, such as
komplet egg and cheese burek, aren’t going anywhere. This is definitely one to check out for well cooked food with prominent flavours. ✤
GO: CALL (0)50 841 5021 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• LISTEN UP
INTRODUCING MAMI UMAMI Experience the exciting fusion of Japanese flair and Latin-American flavours. One of Dubai’s newest dining and social hotspots has just taken up residence on the 23rd floor of the Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai and we recently went for a sneak peek. MAMI UMAMI offers a restaurant, lounge and terrace combining vibrant LatinAmerican flavours and captivating Japanese culinary techniques. The intriguing venue treats guests to a truly unique experience, with food to be shared, drinks to excite and an atmosphere to adore, every evening from 6pm to 1am. MAMI UMAMI takes izakaya-style dining and reimagines it with a modern Latin-American twist, to create a shared dining experience that embraces the unconventional and makes it uniquely memorable. Executive Chef Carlos Rodriguez has carefully crafted a menu filled with an eclectic array of mouthwatering dishes, divided into nine categories, enjoyed in any order, and designed to ignite the palate by unlocking the iconic umami taste. Guests can indulge in rich, soulful, Latin-American recipes, creatively combined with traditional Japanese ingredients and 14
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techniques, and topped off with captivating colour and flair. From an irresistible assortment of Nippy Nippon (cold), Hotto Mami (hot), Lo Crudo (Raw), and Tempura y Frita (fried) dishes, to an inspired selection of Carbon De Japon (grilled), La Mami Umami (signature), Sushi/Sashimi, Maki, and delicious dessert options. Expert mixologists are also on hand to whip up Instagram worthy creations that are full of exciting flavours inspired by the two cultures. The extensive beverage selection gives guests a world of choice, enhanced by an inviting atmosphere that evolves with the energy of the night. From laidback Latin and Bossa-nova early hours sounds, to funky jazz dinnertime beats, and upbeat Caribbean throwbacks at night, the MAMI UMAMI soundtrack is sure to captivate you. ✤
GO: CALL (0)4 512 5555 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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KUSHI BY REIF OPENS AT DEPACHIKA FOOD HALL This follows the successful opening of a cake counter at the end of May. Despite the pandemic, Chef Reif Othman is expanding his culinary empire with the opening of Kushi by Reif at Depachika Food Hall on Palm Jumeirah. This follows the successful opening of a cake counter at the end of May and several popular weekend popups that followed, previewing the restaurant's new menu of Japanese comfort food. In addition to Reif's signature Japanese spin on classic desserts such as goma cheesecake, matcha rolls, yuzu éclairs and tiramisu boba, Kushi by Reif will introduce a menu featuring signature sandos, ramens, donburi and kushiyaki. Kushi by Reif is a mini twist on the Singaporean chef's acclaimed Reif Japanese Kushiyaki restaurant that opened in August last year at Jumeirah's Dar Wasl Mall with a smaller, compact menu of simple Japanese soul fare. "We have been humbled with the reception so far for our cakes and weekend popups. We see a lot of demand for comfort food
that offers great value, and so I am keen to offer residents some simple Japanese classics – all with my own trademark twist. With this new Palm Jumeirah location, we are now able to easily feed residents across that side of town as well as Jumeirah," said chefowner Reif Othman. Highlights from the new menu include the ever-popular Wagyu Katsu Sando, the Chili Soft Shell Crab Sando, a Tori karaage donburi bowl, 72hrs Ribs Ramen, Miso Cod Ramen, Chicken Kushiyaki and Angus Beef Kushiyaki. All dishes are available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery – the latter through Deliveroo. ✤
GO: FOLLOW @KUSHIBYREIF ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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CLAW-SOME FUN CLAW BBQ is back – bigger, messier and tastier than ever! Have you ever found yourself hungry in Downtown Dubai and struggled to decide where to go for a fun and casual meal? Well, next time look no further than CLAW BBQ at Souk Al Bahar, open from noon daily. With great food, drinks, live sports, a jukebox and a few arcade games thrown in for good measure, a day of fun is definitely on the cards. At CLAW BBQ, when it comes to hunger, ain’t nobody got time for that! So, get your bib on, grab a mallet, and get ready for a feast of southern proportions! In true CLAW style, the menu is jampacked full of every mouth-watering hunger-buster imaginable, with a stacked selection of appetisers, tacos, sandwiches, salads, burgers, seafood buckets, BBQ options, mains, fajitas, fresh seafood, steaks, and sides. Whether you decide to gorge on the smoked BBQ ribs, succulent ribeye, lamb chops, Buffalo chicken burger, legendary crab buckets, Panhandle grilled lobster, sizzlin’ fajitas, or shellfish overload – the very best kind of food coma awaits, no matter what you choose. If you’re feeling courageous, why not test that appetite of yours by taking on the Inferno Wings (12 wings in 20 minutes) or The Beast (7lb Bad Boy Burger in under 45 minutes) food challenges? 16
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For those with a sweeter tooth, the CLAW dessert menu is the epitome of sweet satisfaction and chock-full of outrageously tasty treats, such as Calvin’s big daddy cookie, New York cheesecake, an epic-sized original sundae and much more. Let’s also not forget about CLAW’s monstrous shakes. Best of all, a great deal is always available with their daily specials which include Loco Mondays: (all-you-can-eat tacos and unlimited selected beverages for AED 149, from 8pm to midnight), Ladies’ Night (unlimited drinks and 50% off food for the ladies on Tuesdays, from 8pm to midnight) and Big Burger Wednesdays (a classic burger for just AED 49, all day). At CLAW BBQ, guests’ health, safety and wellbeing are always top priorities. In addition to temperature checks on arrival, complimentary hand sanitiser and QR codes for contactless ordering, CLAW also has its very own sanitisation station, where you can sanitise everything from your phone to your keys to your wallet and even your shoes. ✤
GO: CALL (0)4 432 2300 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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MAKING WAVES AT ALSERKAL ARTS FOUNDATION New Waves will open on September 19, following its postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the mood for a bit of culture? Then why not check out a new exhibition at Alserkal Arts Foundation. Presenting, New Waves: Mohamed Melehi and the Casablanca Art School Archives in Concrete, Alserkal Avenue in Dubai, will be showing from September 19 to October 10. Curated by Zamân Books and Curating, the exhibition tells the story of the radical Casablanca Art School, retracing Melehi’s career from the 1950's to the 1980's. Melehi is widely regarded as a major figure of postcolonial Moroccan art and of transnational modernism. Previously unseen works and archives present Melehi as a painter, photographer, muralist, graphic and urban designer, art teacher, and cultural activist. The Dubai chapter of the exhibition presents Melehi’s documentary photography - through his travels, and activism - as well as highlights from his graphic design studio SHOOF, and the remarkable murals of the Asilah festival. It also explores Melehi’s in-depth engagement with Afro-Berber art and craft
through the collection of Bert Flint, from which he drew artistic inspiration. The travelling exhibition and the Dubai iteration marks the first time that the full period of Melehi’s works has been shown on a global stage with a researched display. In the spirit of Melehi’s impulse to free visual art from the gallery and bring painting into the public realm, the exhibition extends into The Yard in Alserkal Avenue. Students from Zayed University have painted an adapted recreation of a mural from the first Asilah Moussem Festival of the Arts in 1978 in collaboration with Jotun paints. The exhibition is open to all, with visitors able to book their visit in line with social distancing guidelines. ✤
GO: VISIT ALSERKALAVENUE.AE OR CALL (0)4 333 3464 FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• BACK IN BUSINESS
BACK IN BUSINESS WH ETH ER IT’S A BUSIN E S S LU N CH O R QU I CK CATCH U P WI T H FR I E N DS, H E R E A R E S I X N E W LU N C H DE A LS TO T R Y T HIS S E P T E M B E R.
LA SERRE BISTRO La Serre Bistro offers a new business lunch deal in the heart of Downtown Dubai. Offering fine French fare at an approachable price, the Rendez-vous Lunch menu costs AED 110 for two-courses and AED 130 for three-courses. Delight in a choice of red bream ceviche marinated in tiger milk with tomato confit and chilli, grilled prawns with spinach cream, or a cherry tomato salad with goat's cheese and hazelnut to start. For mains, choose from dishes including fish of the day served with crushed potato, asparagus and lobster sauce, chicken breast supreme with mashed potato, green beans and Périgueux sauce, or homemade gnocchi with endive and blue cheese sauce. If the sweet tooth persuades, blueberry panna cotta topped with crunchy pecans will be served for dessert. The Rendez-vous Lunch is available Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 5pm. GO: Call (0)4 528 3779 for bookings and more information.
CÉ LA VI DUBAI CÉ LA VI Dubai has a new lunch set menu to engage the senses. Indulge in contemporary Asian cuisine from the masters in the kitchen delivered straight to your plate, alongside the unparalleled views of the city. The menu has been curated by Executive Chef Howard Ko and offers choices of a starter, main and dessert. Amongst the selected starters is the famous Burrata Salad, served on a bed of rocket arugula, nectarine, pickled red onion, endive and candied walnuts, finished with a delicious nectarine and shiso vinaigrette. The set menu also features one of the favourite CÉ LA VI mains, Pan Seared Salmon, served on a bed of black garlic potato terrine, maitake mushrooms, and warm wasabi buttermilk. To finish, the Mango Cheesecake with caramel, mango sorbet and speculoos is an exotic new creation and comes highly recommended. Those looking to take a break from the office can visit Sunday to Thursday, from 12pm to 3pm and indulge in this special three-course menu for AED 140 inclusive of water, tea and coffee. GO: Call (0)4 582 6111 for bookings and more information. 18
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BACK IN BUSINESS •
PAI THAI:
LPM RESTAURANT & BAR LPM Restaurant and Bar has an express lunch menu for its local workers in Dubai. The new Le Petit Menu is a two-course menu designed to be served to guests within 60 minutes and is available at AED 135 per person. Guests can enjoy a selection of starters and salad of the day, followed by a choice of main course. The menu created by Chef Patron Raphael Duntoye includes signature dishes; Burrata with tomatoes and basil, Warm Prawns with olive oil, Roast Baby Chicken marinated in lemon and Sea Bream in Papillote with confit lemon, cherry tomatoes, capers, sweet pepper and olives. Those with more time should take inspiration from the French and indulge in a leisurely lunch. The popular Déjeuner d'Affaires menu includes the salad of the day and two starters each, one main course each, the ice-cream of the day and is available at AED 180 per person. The new menu will be updated regularly, showcasing seasonal specials and dishes from the á la carte menu. GO: Call (0)4 439 0505 for bookings and more information.
Pai Thai, the authentic Thai restaurant at Jumeirah Al Qasr, has launched a three-course lunch so that you can experience a long and leisurely taste of Thailand amid the idyllic waterways of Madinat Jumeirah. Available every Wednesday and Thursday from 3pm until 6pm and every Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 6pm, Pai Thai's new Kin Samrap menu is available for only AED 150 per person, including tea and coffee. The set menu comprises Thai classics reimagined with the signature Pai Thai touch, including Sate Gai (grilled marinated chicken sate with turmeric and peanut sauce); Som Tam Je (green papaya salad with cashew nut and tamarind dressing); Gaeng Khiew Wan Phak (green chicken curry with Thai eggplant and Thai basil); Kana Nuea Nam Man Hoy (wok-fried beef with Thai broccoli, mushrooms and oyster sauce); Pla Nung Ma Now (steamed fish fillet with garlic, chilli, Thai celery and spicy lime sauce); and Kao Niew Ma Muang (sweet sticky rice with ripe mango and coconut syrup) amongst others. GO: Email restaurants@saroodhospitality.com or call 800 666 353 for bookings and more information.
ROBERTO'S The DIFC crowd are a notoriously hungry bunch who are always on the lookout for a chic business lunch spot to refuel, reconnect with colleagues and entertain clients.Business not top of the agenda? Roberto's is also the perfect spot for friends to catch up, whilst enjoying sublime Italian cuisine in a chic DIFC setting that offers stunning Downtown views and the unmistakable Roberto's vibe. The Pranzo di Lavoro Business Lunch is available Sunday to Thursday from 12pm to 3pm and is priced at AED 125 for a starter, main course and dessert. GO: Call (0)4 386 0066 for bookings and more information.
THE LOCALE Can't decide what to have for lunch? Neighbourhood eatery, The Locale at Andaz Dubai The Palm offers a lunch set inclusive of a fresh green salad paired with a choice of pizza and a sweet indulgent chocolate brownie. The pizza selection includes Margherita, Prawn and Avocado, Butter Chicken or Pepperoni. Lunch is available daily from 12:30pm to 3:30pm and is priced at AED 99. ✤ GO: Call (0)4 581 1234 for bookings and more information.
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BRUNCH IS BACK WITH BR UNCH SEASON B ACK I N F U L L S WI N G, WE R O U N D U P T H E B E S T N E W B R U N C H E S FO R YO U TO T R Y T HIS M O N T H.
AL MAEDA: Weekend Brunch A vibrant Arabian tale of sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine unfolds with brunch at Al Maeda in the DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach. Dine in a restaurant that is known for blending glamour with and an exceptional menu. Enjoy the glass-fronted open kitchen or dine on the expansive outdoor terrace with its breathtaking sea view. Guests that arrive for brunch will be entitled to complimentary pool and beach access. Where you can lounge at the Infinity pool, walk the private sandy beach or relax upon one of the beach loungers. There's even a covered children's pool for the little ones. Every Friday and Saturday, from 12pm to 3.30pm. AED 299 (soft beverages) and AED 399 (house beverages). GO: Call (0)55 166 8092 for bookings and more information.
BICE RISTORANTE: Il Brunch Italiano Hilton Dubai Jumeirah has announced the return of its Friday brunch – Il Brunch Italiano at BiCE Ristorante. With a busy kitchen led by Head Chef Davide Gardini knocking up fresh interpretations of Italy's northern cuisine, diners can enjoy this cosy weekend affair of simple yet delicious Italian dishes. Served to your table, weekly brunch offerings include home-made Panzanella, traditional Bresaola and Classic mini Arancini to start. The main dishes feature an impressive range of brunch classics elevated with Italian flair, as well as select signature dishes from the dinner menu including Gnocchi di patate, Spezzatino di manzo and roasted lamb leg. Additionally, the chefs also serve the day's specials such as made to order risottos, pizzas and pasta. A brunch experience is not complete without decadent desserts. The Il Italiano Brunch is featuring sweet treats like the Tiramisu, multi-layered Chocolate mousse and refreshing fruit salad. Every Friday from 1pm until 4pm. AED 250 (soft beverages) and AED 325 (house beverages). GO: Call (0)4 318 2319 for bookings and more information.
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CAFÉ BELGE: The Secret Brunch At The Ritz It's no secret that the Secret Parties brunches are a massive hit in Dubai and the party gang have launched a brand new weekly Gatsby styled brunch at one of the most popular DIFC hotels, The Ritz Carlton. The Secret Brunch at The Ritz, promises glitz, glamour and the best in Secret Parties style partying. Brunching with the Secret Parties Group includes delicious food, tempting mixed beverages and music and entertainment to blow all other brunches out of the water. Guests are invited to turn their Friday brunch into the ultimate luxury staycation, for just AED 650 per person, which includes a night's stay at the five-star hotel, breakfast in bed, pool access and of course the brunch package itself. Every Friday from 1pm to 5pm. AED 295 (soft beverages) and AED 395. GO: Visit www.secret-parties.com for bookings and more information.
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that brunch has to offer at LARTE. Every Friday from 12pm to 3pm. AED 269 (house beverages) plus one free children's meal is provided with every adult brunch booking! GO: Call (0)4 240 0441 for bookings and more information.
MAYA MEXICAN KITCHEN AND BAR: Mas Mas Maya Brunch The contemporary Mexican dining hotspot at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa has brought back its epic Mas Mas Maya Brunch. Enjoy an unlimited sharing menu of tempting Mexican plates served up with a smile and to the backdrop of trendy toe-tapping tunes. For starters, choose from cold plates like the traditional guacamole, Maya salad with Asian mixed greens, pumpkin seeds, cotija dressing and a zesty mango dressing and salmon ceviche; or hot dishes like the signature nachos, calamari with a delicious chipotle tartare dip and achiote chicken tacos. For mains, there's the juicy lobster with roasted corn and chipotle butter and sumptuous chicken and beef strip loin fajitas. Save room for dessert, as your server brings out a Chef's selection of delightful Mexican and International desserts. Every Friday and Saturday from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. AED 350 (soft beverages), AED 450 (house beverages) and AED 170 (children aged between 12 and 17 years old). GO: Call (0)4 316 5550 for bookings and more information.
OUIBAR + TERRACE: All-American Family Diner Brunch Fancy burgers and shakes on a Friday? Visit OUIBar + terrace at the Radisson RED, Dubai Silicon Oasis to satisfy all your cravings with the new all-American family diner menu. Enjoy rocking 50s tunes accompanied by American favourites such as old fashioned milkshakes and delicious burgers and fries. The family diner is the perfect plan for an indulgent Friday afternoon with loved ones. Every Friday, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 99 (soft beverages) and AED 200 (house beverages). GO: Call (0)4 571 4343 for bookings and more information.
LARTE:
PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI:
La Tavolata Family Brunch The La Tavolata Family Brunch brunch combines a choice of unlimited starters that includes bruschettas, calamari, caprese salad and misto mare, sharing mains and a dessert platter. Meanwhile, children can enjoy one dish, one drink and one ice cream as well as activities in the game room and supervised cartoons in the screening room! If the children are entertained, then the adults can kick back and enjoy all
Secret Palazzo Versace Brunch Not your average Secret Parties event, this brunch is sure to break the mould of the traditional brunch! One of the most extravagant hotels in the region, some of the most incredible Italian cuisine, all mixed in with the best party group in Dubai. Ever wanted to hear an opera singer blow your socks off as he belts out a classic Swedish House Mafia tune? The Secret Palazzo Versace Brunch introduces Joseph Terterian, Dubai's most talented Opera singer. He will be joined by an electric violinist, playing everything from classical opera favourites, to modern party tunes. Brunch includes four courses of delicious Italian cuisine with dishes that include; Seafood Arancini, Tagliata Di Manzo (Roasted Beef Tenderloin) and Branzino (Pan Seared Seabass Fillet) all brought to the table and shared familystyle. There's also a beef carpaccio station with black truffle! Every Friday, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 345 (soft beverages) and AED 445 (house beverages). Fancy pushing the boat out? This brunch also has a swanky staycation upgrade, for an additional AED 350 per person, guests can stay in one of the most Instagram worthy hotels in Dubai, inclusive of room, breakfast and pool access. GO: Visit www.secret-parties.com for bookings and more information. fact magazine
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TRADER VIC'S:
SEVEN SISTERS:
Cheeky Tiki Friday Brunch Trader Vic's at the Hilton Dubai Jumeirah promises a great dining experience with Polynesian cuisine and Tiki beverages. For starters, guests can indulge in an assorted Sushi Platter, the famous Cheese Ball, Crab Rangoon and the Tama Tama Skewer. For the mains, patrons can choose between the Kung Pao Chicken, Vegetarian Stir Fry Noodles, Masaman Beef Curry, or have them all! To finish on a sweet note, brunch-goers are offered a sweet platter including Passion Fruit Cheese Cake, Chocolate Espresso Éclair, Lemon Grass Cream Brulee and Coconut Mango Sago Pudding. Diners can opt to sit inside or outside at the airy terrace and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ain Dubai and Arabian Gulf. The Cheeky Tiki Brunch is available every Fridays from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 375 per person. GO: Call (0)4 318 2530 for bookings and more information.
Sundown Brunch Seven Sisters returns with exciting events, impeccable cuisine and an incredible team of expert mixologists. With views of the Dubai Canal and skyline, the fully covered, air-conditioned terrace is fully compliant with the health and safety regulations of Dubai Municipality, so that guests can relax, unwind and indulge. Famed for its vibrant and energetic Sundown Brunch, guests can enjoy an afternoon of fun and frivolity, with hip-hop, R&B and afro-beats as the sun sets over the canal. Fridays from 1pm to 5pm. AED 199 (soft beverages), AED 349 (house beverages) and AED 449 (premium beverages). GO: Call (0)56 775 4777 for bookings and more information.
TESORO AND TREEHOUSE: Love Parties Hidden Brunch This Dubai brunch is now even better thanks to its new vegan menu jam-packed with meatless masterpieces. Start the meal with the irresistible Breads and Dips, moving to the sensational starters, which include Sweet Potato Fries, Mushroom Sliders, Edamame and Quinoa Tabbouleh. Main courses include a feast of options, such as Cajun Spiced Avocado, Pasta Arabiatta, Thai Green Curry, Sweet and Sour Tofu and so much more! Don't forget to leave room for dessert, with sweet endings such as Berry Trifle, Tropical Fruit Skewers and Walnut Brownie. Every Friday, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 325 (soft beverages) and AED 375 (house beverages). GO: Visit www.hiddenbrunch.com for bookings and more information.
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ZHEN WEI: Dim Sum Brunch Zhen Wei's master chef has created an authentic Dim Sum brunch experience where guests can indulge in unlimited handmade dim sum alongside a delectable main course. Brunch-goers can enjoy endless Dim Sum creations, including Scallop and Lobster Siew Mai, Beef Spice Dumpling, Rose Prawn Har Gao, Pan-Fried Shrimp Corn Cake and much more. When it comes to the main course, foodies can choose from the mouth-watering Sweet and Sour Crispy Chicken, Barbecued Salmon or the tender Moo Shu Beef, along with a selection of tasty accompaniments. Coconut Ice Cream with Brown Cake will finish off the meal on a deliciously decadent note. Every Friday and Saturday, from 12pm to 3:30pm. AED 228 (soft beverages) or AED 328 (house beverages) ✤ GO: Call (0)4 556 6466 for bookings and more information.
THE CREATIVES THIS MONTH, FACT TALKS TO A NUMBER OF UAE-BASED CREATIVES ABOUT WHAT INSPIRES THEM, HOW THEY BECAME MASTERS OF THEIR CRAFT AND WHAT GETS THOSE CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING…
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THE CHEF
At Ossiano located in Atlantis Dubai fine dining is an immersive experience. Imagine dining on caviar and avant-garde creations in a romantic underwater restaurant as stingrays, sharks and fish glide right past your table. Here, we catch up Chef de Cuisine Grégoire Berger, one of the world's top chefs, to find out about his inspirations and creative process. Why did you decide to become a chef? My experience is somewhat unusual. I knew I liked food just from being around my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook and the food at home was always delicious. She used to make this amazing Rhubarb Tart and I still remember the smell. It's my oldest memory. However, in my early years, I did not consider cooking as an essential part of my life. Aged 16, I had the opportunity to start as an apprentice at La Closerie de Kerdrain [a gourmet restaurant in Auray created by Martine and Fernand Corfmat], and walking into that kitchen was like experiencing real magic. That's really when I knew what I wanted to be. The smell, the hum, the vibrations - I just watched them create this art from simple ingredients and it blew my mind. Who do you admire most in the culinary world, and why? I would say that Benoît Violier has certainly influenced me. What he did was genius and I think to reach his level of classic fine dining would be a dream. I'm also a great admirer of Michelin star chef Stephane Buron and, obviously, Daniel Humm, who is the chef and co-owner of Eleven Madison and The NoMad in New York City. The dishes he creates with simple ingredients and seasonal flavours are astonishing. What food trends do you think we can expect to see in Dubai in the next six months? The culinary scene in Dubai is still very young and is still in the process of finding its personality. The diversity within the city is fantastic and, very soon, the culinary scene will mature into something well-rounded and confident. Diners are becoming more and more open to new ideas and ways of dining, and it's been a pleasure to watch it evolve. For example, four years ago, I could never have only served a set/experience menu like we do now. The vegan/plant-based dietary requirements of guests are also something we see more and more of and if I'm honest it's something we find very difficult to cater to. While we always try to accommodate food intolerances and allergies, Ossiano is a very unique and niche restaurant and it can be a challenge to make something vegan and not compromise on the dish or taste. What are the signature dishes at Ossiano and which is your favourite to prepare for guests? I am always looking for the visual aspect to define the taste in my dishes. A favourite – both with myself and the diners – 24
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is the Croque monsieur, a ham sandwich revisited and made with veal ham. It is served in the shape of a clock with the time going backwards in order to take diners on a path of nostalgia – we are inviting guests to go back through time. The veal ham is from Italy and it really is extraordinary. Then, there's the 'Candle', which looks like a real table accessory – we even light it! But then we slice through it, you realise that there is foie gras inside and the 'candle wax' is made from the fat of the foie gras. I think my proudest dish, however, would have to be the Kerguelen Island legine (also known as Patagonian toothfish). I won the S. Pellegrino Young Chef competition with this dish and it's potentially the trickiest I've ever created. Comprised of pretty much just fish, leaf and sauce, there is nothing to hide behind. It has to be perfect. I'm leaning more and more toward these simple dishes as it's here that I find the challenge. It's so hard to make something simple, memorable and tasty and
to the date of the booking. Our culinary team will work their magic to accommodate.
this is where my focus will be for 2020. I'm more mature and I have less to prove. I'm letting my ego take a backseat.
Ossiano, colours, shapes, textures, music – I love rap music. I compare one of my favourite rap artists, Furax Barbarossa, to a three Michelin star chef because the more you listen to one of his songs, the more you understand what he is saying and the more you realise how perfectly it is made – there are layers upon layers in his compositions and it's only after you've heard one 50 times that you realise how powerful it is! His music is very personal and he doesn't follow any rules; that's because with real art, there are no rules.
What can diners expect when dining at Ossiano? In our Journey menu, we use the most sustainable and freshest ingredients from the land and sea to put together an experience around feelings and emotions. Every dish tells the story of my travels around the world through a sensorial experience. For guests to enjoy the journey at its fullest, dishes are kept secret until revealed and introduced by the service team. We are flexible with menu changes so long as it does not affect the integrity and identity of our experience. We ask our valuable guests to notify us in advance of any dietary requirements and preferences at least 48 hours prior
The dishes at Ossiano look like plated artworks. Where do you get your inspiration from? 90 per cent of my inspiration comes from my own life and the lives of the people around me. For example, my daughter was eating this delicious looking peanut, banana and blueberry jam sandwich the other week. The flavours and texture just worked so beautifully, and she enjoyed it so much that I came in immediately and set about reworking a banoffee pie to replicate the sandwich! It was an absolute masterpiece, inspired by a three-year-old child's lunch! Can you please describe for us your creative process that goes into the creation of a new dish or menu? Everything inspires me. Architecture, poetry, the aquarium at
The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely changed the food and beverage landscape in Dubai. What lessons have you learned, and do you think the industry can bounce back? My biggest lesson is to never take things for granted. Will the industry bounce back? Yes, I think so, but I don't think it will be the industry that we knew. Let's see. With the rise of influencers and bloggers, what are your opinions on this new digital world where everyone has suddenly become a food critic? Social media gives any type of person the opportunity to be a food critic and, if I'm honest, I think this is a bit of a disaster. I think it's dangerous that the legitimacy of the opinion of an influencer is based on their number of followers and not on their knowledge about food, and I don't find this acceptable. It just means that anyone with a high number of followers or an engaged audience who doesn't know a thing about food and hospitality will be listened to by a huge number of people, which could potentially provoke calamities for a chef or restaurant. It can be career-destroying. I think that all food influencers and critics should only be taken seriously if they have the relevant experience or qualifications - just as a journalist does. ✤
GO: CALL (0)4 426 2626 FOR RESERVATIONS AT OSSIANO AND FOLLOW @GREGOIRE.OSSIANO ON INSTAGRAM FOR ALL THE LATEST CULINARY CREATIONS. fact magazine
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THE PERFORMANCE ARTIST
James Booth is an artist specialising in high-diving and tumbling at La Perle. Featuring a breathtaking fusion of immersive artistic performances, imagery and technology, Dubai’s number one show is influenced by the city’s vibrant present and aspirational future, and brought to life by awe-inspiring stunts and special effects that will leave viewers speechless.
Please tell us a little bit about your background and how you got became an artist for La Perle? I’m 28 years old and I’m from the UK. I started gymnastics over 22 years ago and throughout my journey I’ve competed for Great Britain in an area of gymnastics called power tumbling. It’s similar to the floor tumbling you see in Olympic gymnastics but on a grander scale. Once I finished competing, I moved into the world of performing and circus. I had the honour of performing in the 2012 Olympic ceremonies, Bollywood films, TV commercials and most recently for the Cirque du Soleil as a specialist tumbler. I applied for La Perle as I had seen many amazing pictures and videos of the show and knew I wanted to be a part of it. Thankfully, I was accepted and started work in 2018. For people who are unaware of the show, can you please tell us a little bit about it? La Perle focusses on a brave girl called Pearl who is transported through time and space to a mysterious new planet. Here, she 26
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meets new characters who guide her through a journey of discovery, romance and danger. Acrobatics and diving are used to enhance the story and create this amazing new world for Pearl to discover. The theatre uses some of the world’s best technology to create a fully immersive experience for guests, including full theatre projection and over 2.7 million litres of water! The show is quite unlike anything else that you’ll see in Dubai. What is it like to work on such a large-scale production with so much technology? It was quite overwhelming in the beginning! We have many large departments within the show such as the Scuba team, stage team, lighting, carpentry, rigging, sound and special effects to name a few! What you see on stage is usually the artists performing however all of the departments are working collaboratively behind the scenes to make the show as special as it is. For me as an artist, it’s a privilege to work with such talented people.
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What is it like working in the aqua-theatre where the stage can be flooded and drained in a matter of seconds? Although I have soaked my trainers one too many times, having a stage that can adapt and transform is really cool. It means we can completely change the atmosphere in the theatre and change the surface we interact with at the flick of a switch. We have 30m waterfalls, huge jets hidden beneath the stage and we can even make it rain! As someone who has always loved being in water, this show is perfect for me, I get to play in one of the world’s most advanced aqua-theatres and call it work! The show has some rather impressive set pieces such as the motorcycle ball and high dives from a height of 25 metres. Which is your favourite of these to partake in and why? Because we have a diverse set of acts, I’m in as much amazement as the audience watching, because I have no idea how it is possible! Take the globe riders for example; they fit five riders into a tiny globe, ride 80kph upside down and defy gravity. I’ve watched them for nearly 1,000 shows and every time they finish, I’m in awe. Personally, I’ve performed in many different acts as the show has evolved. Currently I am enjoying the diving as for me it started in such odd circumstances. When I arrived at the show I was scared of heights. I saw the dive training as an opportunity for me to be exposed to heights and become more accustomed. I never actually started the diving because I wanted to do it in the show. When I watched the show for the first time, I even said to the coach, “You will never see me doing that!” Fast forward 1 year and I now leap from 18 metres, somersaulting into the pool! What is the process of learning the routines and choreography for a show such as La Perle, which has so many acrobatic elements? For any new artist joining the team, it takes a while to fully learn the show as most artists are involved in multiple acts. They would sit and watch the show many times to first understand the storyline and the flow of the acts within the show. When it then comes to training, we have a double storey rehearsal room where the artists can be trained for the acrobatic acts, as well as a dance studio where they learn staging and choreography. We have an amazing team of coaches who help each artist through this process. How often do you train and what kind of training is required for your role in the show? My personal training is linked to the act I perform most in the show. As a high diver, my body takes a large impact every time I hit the water so the number of dives I do per week is monitored. As we do 10 shows a week, with multiple dives per show, this only allows me to train one dive session per week. Here I will experiment with new dives, shapes in the air and from different heights. Outside the pool, I train my special awareness on the trampoline and do a traditional workout in the gym three times per week. We will also perform extra trainings during the week to work on contingency plans, staging other acts and refreshing our scuba training as being underwater is a large part of my job!
Teamwork and trust must be very important when it comes to the acrobatics involved in the show. How do you build and maintain these relationships? When people say circus is one big family, it really is. We come from all over the planet, sharing the same interest and performing alongside each other doing death-defying skills. Without trust the show wouldn’t happen. We all work anti-social hours and have days off when everyone else is working, so we often relax together outside of work. We work, train, eat and chill together so trust is quickly established! What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career on stage in a production such as La Perle? Never stop trying. Never stop improving. The entertainment industry is seeing some unprecedented changes right now, so you need to go with the flow, keep training and have faith that the industry will return to normal. When it comes to training, learn as much as you can from people with experience, be diverse in your skills and never stop auditioning and pushing. It will happen one day. I waited six years after auditioning for my first major show. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.LAPERLE.COMFOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Bill Bragin is the Executive Artistic Director of The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi. He talks to FACT about the burgeoning arts and culture scene in Abu Dhabi and what we can expect from the upcoming season at The Arts Center.
Could you please tell us about your role as Executive Artistic Director? What exactly does the job involve? In many arts organisations, there will be an Artistic Director, responsible for setting the programmatic vision of the organisation and serving as its public face, and an Executive Director, who oversees the staff management, finances, and so on. In my case, this is a combined role, which encompasses curating the artists, setting the priorities for academic and community based collaborations, overseeing the budget, and leading the staff. I’m blessed that we have a very strong, close-knit team, and I believe in a very non-hierarchical, collaborative approach. So this means the job involves lots of meetings - formerly in person, and now on Zoom! And in more normal times, it means that I’m regularly attending performances, conferences, and festivals, watching lots of videos, and consulting with other artistic directors, as well as meeting with artists, agents and managers to discover new works that are appropriate for The Arts Center. 28
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I’m also working closely with colleagues on the NYUAD faculty and student life, as well as colleagues at other arts organisations in the UAE to make sure our programming is relevant to our particular needs and context. What was your career trajectory to becoming the Executive Artistic Director of The Arts Center at New York University Abu Dhabi and have you always had a keen interest in the arts? I’m the son of a trumpet player/music teacher and an amateur pianist, and the arts have always been a big part of my life. It started with making my friends listen to my favourite records when I was in middle school. I then joined the concert series and campus radio station when I was at Haverford and Bryn Mawr Colleges and my career path was set. I worked on all kinds of music and culturally specific festivals, ran Central Park SummerStage, Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater, and most immediately before coming to NYU Abu Dhabi, was the director of public programming at
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and master classes, as well as learning about the professional aspects of being a working artist through our career development arts chats. We’re especially excited that some local artists, like filmmaker Philip Rachid aka Soultrotter, who attended a filmmaking workshop with live documentary maker Sam Green, has been commissioned by The Arts Center to create a new piece about the UAE’s underground Bboy and Bgirl scene, and that both he and Sam are both commissioned artists in residence this season. It’s amazing to have these artists in dialogue. Almost as soon as The Arts Center opened, we started hearing from audience members that what we did gave them a sense of home. More recently, as people spent weeks and months at home, we found that our online programming, through initiatives like the Reconnect series, also gave people a sense of connection with the world and with one another. Lincoln Center in New York. What links all of these is a belief in the importance of sharing adventurous programming from a broad range of cultural backgrounds and disciplines as a way to inspire, entertain, open minds, and build community. Coming to Abu Dhabi offered a great opportunity to extend these activities. Please tell us about the upcoming season at The Arts Center at NYUAD? Amidst uncertainty and change, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi has sought to make one thing constant – making the arts even more accessible. As “a bridge” from the arts to the community, reimagining how events work when not presented in-person allows The Arts Center to bring audiences, artists and the UAE arts community closer together. The sixth season of The Arts Center is going to be the best one yet, unlike any other. We have been inspired creatively by what people might see as a constraint - the difficulties gathering audiences together to experience artistry from around the world. So technology will also be our bridge. We will present large-scale online celebrations like turntablist Kid Koala’s two-part Robot House Party, and intimate microtheater events like Tania elKhoury’s As Far As My Isolation Goes (Online) and 600 Highwaymen’s A Thousand Ways Part 1. And we’ll continue to provide a platform for the vibrant local arts scene through Rooftop Rhythms and our UAE National Day celebration, Hekayah | The Story. How do you feel that The Arts Center’s has impacted the arts and culture scene in Abu Dhabi and the UAE over the past five years? I am really proud to have been part of the growth of the arts and cultural sector. We’ve tried to introduce ambitious world-class artists and adventurous forms to the UAE as a means to spark local creativity. And what we’re seeing now is that increasingly, individuals who were in our audiences are coming to us with proposals for bold new work that takes this inspiration and applies it to more local stories. We hope that we’ve opened up a sense of possibility for what is possible through the arts, and for the kinds of conversations that art can inspire. We also have a big emphasis on training local artists - both to develop their creative and technical skills through workshops
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your programming for this upcoming sixth season? How have you had to adapt and what changes can guests expect going forward? For the fall, we had to make a decision to create a completely online, distanced season, which meant that we worked closely with artists to find new ways to create and share their work. At the centre, it was important that this wasn’t perceived as “second best”. In fact, we are working with many of the same world class artists who have been previously on our physical stages, with the same goals - to open hearts and minds to new ideas, spark conversation, and build a sense of connectedness. We learned that when you remove the constraint of gathering together in person, we can actually reach an even wider global audience, and share all that Abu Dhabi has to offer. We’ve also continued to build partnerships with other presenters across the globe, from Singapore to Cairo to London to Los Angeles. The Arts Center at NYUAD is ideally situated on Saadiyat Island, close to The Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat and the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum. Can you please tell us your thoughts on the burgeoning arts and culture scene in Abu Dhabi? Quite personally, being a part of the cultural movement growing on Saadiyat was a main attraction for me to come. It’s a rare privilege to be able to work with the support of the highest levels of a nation’s government to prioritise the growth of an artistic sector. What I always say is that the cultural scene here is very porous and welcoming. Most of us know one another, and new arrivals are welcomed with open arms and introduced around in the spirit of Emirati hospitality. And we’re working across traditional lines - performing arts, visual arts and cinema people are all talking to one another regularly, attending each others’ events. I’m fascinated to see what might come as these roles are blended, and a uniquely transnational, transdisciplinary UAE voice continues to be defined. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.NYUAD-ARTSCENTER.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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THE PHOTOGRAPHER Mohammad Azizi is a photographer and creative entrepreneur who you will likely recognise from his
Instagram account @alphaspotting. The travel photographer recently launched his first book 111 Locations to Take Pictures in the UAE and shares ten of these with the readers of FACT.
1. Shuweihat Island, Abu Dhabi Looking for a faraway adventure? This is the place to be A little paradise in the Arabian peninsula that is still reasonably unknown! A weekend adventure with an SUV would be my ideal getaway. Heads up, it’s a long drive, but that’s the point. 2. Dubai Marina, Dubai Dubai Marina is one of my favourite areas in the city and I love to come here to shoot pictures at sunset. My favourite spot is in front of the old abra that’s parked there “most of this time!” 3. Palm Island, Dubai If I were to pick a favourite spot of mine in Dubai, this would be it!. I love coming here during the day and at night to enjoy the views. Unfortunately, as construction is going on, this view will be blocked by new skyscrapers which means that this view is slowing disappearing. 30
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4. Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai I call this place the most Instagram worthy spot in Dubai! I am sure they built this place with Instagram pictures in mind. A perfect sunset spot that your camera will love! 5. Shangri La Hotel, Dubai Arguably the Dubai view you will witness in Dubai. The view speaks for itself and you will have to pay a fee to get up there but you can ask at their reception for more information about that. 6. Abandoned Village, Sharjah Locate in Sharjah. This place is just wow! The homes are halfsubmerged in the desert sand and I’d highly recommend checking this place out at least once! 7. Wahat Al Karama, Abu Dhabi Everyone likes to go inside the Skeikh Zayed Mosque, and why not? It’s absolutely stunning inside! But many people might not know that opposite the mosque is Wahat Al Karama which is where you can get some stunning shots with the reflection on the ground! 8. Al Razeen, Abu Dhabi Keen on getting experience that you will remember for the rest of your life? Viewing stars at night at a location with super low light pollution is something that you will never forget! Drive up to Al Razeen in Abu Dhabi and get these shots. You don’t need a highend camera to get these shots, just get your hands on a tripod and Google how to shoot astrophotography and you should be good to go.
9. Paros Bar, Dubai The newest rooftop in the city. Located in JLT, it offers stunning views of the Marina skyline and is an excellent sunset spot. You can also see Burj Al Arab and the Downtown skyline from here as well! The glass fence here is high, so tripods aren’t ideal. A Gorillapod would be recommended. 10. Business Bay Canal, Dubai The last spot that I would recommend in the Dubai Canal. I love the views that this place offers. It looks best at blue hour/night. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.ALPHASPOTTING.PHOTO OR FOLLOW @ALPHASPOTTING ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• THE CREATIVES
THE EVENT PLANNER Jardel Silva is the founder of Eventchic Designs. A company that prides itself on creating tailor-made experiences and turning them into lifelong lasting memories. and mind-blowing corporate events. We are an international company and we have designed events in destinations such as to Angola, London, Paris, Holland, Brazil, Nigeria and India. We offer complete event management services, programming and production, entertainment and special event coordination, highquality activities and event promotion. We have successfully created, developed, and produced events for a diverse client roster, including socialites, executives, celebrities, parents, and professional athletes. Your events are renowned for their sheer scale and attention to detail. How long does usually take to put together one of your events? The period of putting out an event mainly depends on the size, requirements, and culture of the event. Usually, corporate events take longer because we need to follow more guidelines and protocols and understand the vision of the company. On the other hand, weddings take from two months to one year and it mainly depends on the culture of the couple and the size of the wedding.
Please tell us a little bit about your background and why you picked a career in event planning? Growing up, my mother used to tell me that I love to arrange and decorate our furniture around the house. I used to decorate our home whenever guests were visiting. I never knew my passion for designing until an opportunity came from Dubai. I started my career in 2009 in the hospitality industry, where I worked for three years. I learned the processes, procedures and logistics of food and beverage. Working in the hospitality industry provided the greatest experience and as they say, “experience is the best teacher�. Having the knowledge and experience from my previous career motivated me to shift to an event company. Lots of opportunities arose and I started meeting people with different nationalities. One thing led to another and I was fortunate enough to find a job that eventually became my passion. As they say, if you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life. For those who are unaware of your company, Eventchic Designs, can you please tell us a little bit about it? Eventchic Designs was formed in April 2015. It has been more than five years now and we are very proud of our journey to date. We are known for our ultra-chic and luxurious weddings 32
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Can you please talk us through your creative process when it comes to planning, organizing and executing a large-scale event. It starts from meeting the client where we discussed and understand their culture, taste, vision, requirements, and budget. We usually follow the requirements of the client, but we try to merge what we believe in and recommend what we know that will look good. After the meeting, we will do a site visit to understand the ambience, size and area of the venue. With this, we can recommend the type of flowers, colour palette and design. The team will be brainstorming to come up with the best designs and we will compile a mood board to visually present to the client, indicating the design and decoration we are going for. Before the main event, we perform a mock set-up for the client to provide
THE CREATIVES •
a sample of the designs. And then comes the day of the set-up of the main event where we give life to the layouts, decorations, and designs. You have worked at some pretty impressive locations throughout the UAE, including Burj Al Arab and rooftop hot spot CE LA VIE Dubai. How do you choose an event venue and what exactly do you look for? Choosing the venue is one of the decisions that will have the largest impact on the event. Understanding the client needs, budget and theme of the event plays a significant role in picking the right venue. Also, the expertise of the hotel staff is one factor to consider and that is why we usually choose a place that we already have experience working with. Hotel employees from the lowest rank to the top of the hierarchy are important and that’s why I talk to them all personally to make them understand what I’m aiming for. Knowing the team that you are working with is a big advantage in this industry. There is more to consider in picking the right venue such as accessibility of the place, ambience, price, regulations of the venue and date and time but the most important thing is what the clients need and want. How do you manage the event budget? We do not limit our projects to fixed prices. I like to work around the client’s budget and requirements to bring out the best possible version of the wedding. First, we understand what they want and from there, we tell them what we can and cannot do. However, we try to convince the client and tell them what is important because we do not want to compromise the design and decorations during the event. Despite the pricing point we work with, we stay true to our tagline,” Where passion meets perfection”. But perfection comes with a price because it is a composition of luxury, quality, and excellence. You organize everything from weddings to birthday parties and corporate events. Is there a particular type of event that you prefer working on? When I started my company, I envisioned myself designing the best weddings in the UAE and overseas. That goes without saying that I preferred designing the weddings of the most glamorous brides and grooms. However, over the past two years, the clients have asked for other events such as baby showers, 1st year anniversaries, birthdays and small celebrations. When your client is loyal to you and they asked you for other events, I cannot say no to them. Now that I’ve started working on different events and tell you what? I love the challenge. Getting out of my comfort zone helps me become more creative and it taught me so many things. Until now, I love anything as long as it is related to designing, planning and decorating.
need to make these occasions special somehow in the safety of their homes. We create the whole concept around contactless delivery of a themed party set-up. We launched our creative concept during the lockdown in May with different themes to help people celebrate special occasions at home. Themes include unicorns, mermaids, circus, Disney’s Frozen, Mickey Mouse and various superheroes. It comes filled with themed accessories for the occasions as well as tableware and set-up props. Adding delicious themed cakes and cupcakes supplied by our partner vendor Sugar Artistry makes the package complete and sweet. What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career in events? This industry is an incredibly stressful and pressuring job. Event planning requires a supreme level of organization, time management and communication skills that cannot be learned from a book. You must experience it first hand to learn the necessary skills needed for this industry. You must be creative because every client has a different taste and every event must be unique. It would be best if you were quick with solutions because every event encounters a problem or obstacle that is sometimes beyond your control. A wedding is a once in a lifetime event for every bride and groom, so you have to be on top of your game to make sure that everything is accounted for. You must be good in time management and organization because time is the biggest enemy of an event planner. Deadlines must be met or everything will be delayed. It will have a domino effect until the event day! You should plan everything ahead, do not settle for the last minute. If you finished earlier than expected, you will always have more time to work on the details and making sure things are in place. Being attentive to details is what enhances the guest experience. ✤
GO: FOLLOW @EVENTCHICDESIGNS ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Aside from Eventchic, you have recently started another venture, Props in a Box Dubai. Could you explain the concept for us and the reasons behind its creation? Props in a box was born from the Covid-19 lockdown. There was a time one of my associates saw a family celebrating their little boy’s first birthday over Zoom. She then realized that people still fact magazine
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• THE CREATIVES
THE MUSIC PRODUCER Andy Brookes is an Abu Dhabi based music producer who works out of the BarCoe Studio in Khalifa City. Having worked with some of the UAE's biggest homegrown talents, he talks exclusively to FACT about his creative process and musical inspirations. How did you get into the world of music production? I'm utterly obsessed with music and I've always been interested in how songs are composed, arranged and recorded. I studied sound engineering, which led to my first recording jobs and I was also a touring musician, so I spent lots of time in studios either producing, engineering or being a musician. Tell us a little bit about BarCoe Studio. I co-founded the studio just over two years ago with my business partner Sean Barcoe. We both had a vision of creating a space for local artists and bands to record as there didn't seem to be anywhere in Abu Dhabi at that time. We built a space and vibe to help the artists achieve their musical dreams. It's a multimedia studio where we record artists and bands. It's completely different to any studio I've been in as it has this cool at-home vibe but is still a professional recording facility with top of the range recording equipment. The services we offer are - recording, mixing, mastering, Composing, TV production and voice-overs. We also promote live events. We have an original music event for artists that have recorded with the studio - Barcoe Sounds. Please talk us through your creative process when it comes to producing a song. If it's a song that the artist or band has written, I tend to ask them to send me a rough home recording of the song. I then listen to it a million times and see what ideas for arrangements spring out. Then I discuss with the artist what the story of the song and what aesthetic they are going for. We then might have a session or two of songwriting/beat making to get ideas down. Then it's sorting out the logistics of who is going to record. Ideally, the artist will play their instruments but often I'm asked to perform. I also may need to decide whether I need to hire any outside musicians. It's cheaper for the artist if I become the one-man band and that often happens lol. Once all the instruments and vocals have been recorded, I then start the mixing process. Once the artist is happy with the mix, it is then mastered at the studio, so it's ready for distribution on any streaming platform. Some artists have a clear idea of how they want the song to be. Others require me to guide them through the process. Who are your musical inspirations and what do you do to feel inspired? I listen to pretty much every genre of music from 1950s rock n roll and 1970s funk to today's EDM and Hip-hop. The risk-takers and the innovators inspire me - people who pushed boundaries and tried new things. 34
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You've worked with a lot of local talent and some big names like Azza Zarour and Sons of Yusuf. How did these collaborations come about? It was terrific collaborating with Azza as she is so talented. She has so many fresh ideas and the talent to back them up. I was so excited when her video was trending in the top three in the Gulf region. I think it has about 14 million views on YouTube! She has a fantastic voice and is such a tremendous oud player. Sons of Yusuf were told about the studio by their friend. We get most of our clients from recommendations and word of mouth. They needed to record some verses on a track they had. Super talented guys, really down to earth and an absolute pleasure to record. What are your thoughts on the music scene in the UAE? There is a lot of talent in the UAE and so much diversity that inspires me. I think it won't be long until the UAE has a breakout artist who becomes a world Star. There is so much potential for great music to be found here. I feel that the scene would be improved with more support from TV and radio promoting local artists. Also, more venues need to be catering for local original music. ✤
GO: FOR MORE INFORMATION, FOLLOW @ANDYMUSICPRODUCER AND @THEBARCOE.STUDIO ON INSTAGRAM.
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THE FASHION DESIGNERS
Robert S Shaw IV, Martin Al Masri and Remon Farag are the trio behind the UAE's latest homegrown men's fashion brand, The Victor Closet. Could you please describe for us your creative process when it comes to designing a new collection? Do you base your ideas around a central theme, the textiles or something else? We start with what we call an MDM (master design meeting), which covers a period such as Fall/Winter, in which we discuss fashion trends, colours, fabrics, patterns and then ways we can twist it to make it 'Victor'. From there, we put together a mood board and come up with a theme. Next, we set a date in which to review initial sketches and the fun part starts. We each have our design process, which may consist of going straight to paper with a pencil or sourcing fabric to work with. Finally, once we get everything on paper, we meet to review each design and we will suggest edits, bless off on it or scrap it. The garments are all beautifully made. Where do you source your fabrics and materials from? We always look at home first, so most of our materials are sourced in the UAE. However, we wanted to find fabrics you don't see every day, so we also source from South Korea. Several factors govern our choice of fabrics; first is the season of the collection; second is the theme of the collection; and finally the brand design guidelines - being fashion-forward, practical and comfortable.
Tell us a little bit about The Victor Closet. How was the company formed and what was the inspiration behind the creation of the brand? The founders of The Victor Closet are three modern fashionloving men coming from different backgrounds and discovered their shared passion for fashion. The idea behind The Victor Closet was to present something different and unique for fashionforward men who may have few options to choose from in the immediately available retail market. The designs are very avant-garde. How do you design such pieces and was there a reason why you decided to focus purely on menswear? We just took the rule book and threw it out the window! In fashion, women have such an array of options to choose from but style and design wise, men are usually constrained to the typical norm when it comes to designs. We think we all felt that there was a need to provide men options and push their comfort level.
Describe for us the fashion scene here in the UAE. Who are your local inspirations and how does The Victor Closet fit into the marketplace. The fashion scene in the UAE is quite rich and diverse; you have designers, fashion photographers, stylists and buyers from all around the world in one place. The awareness and knowledge are very high as everyone has peers coming from a different background which creates an environment of healthy competition and continuous progress. The efforts of Dubai Design District and Dubai Fashion Council to encapsulate this community and showcase it to the whole world through fashion events is noted and appreciated. Dubai, as a city has already put itself on the map of luxury lifestyle, which qualifies it to have a significant stand in the fashion world. Although we are an international brand limiting ourselves to no border or locale, we see ourselves part of Dubai's journey to be a global fashion city. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.THEVICTORCLOSET.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION fact magazine
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• THE CREATIVES
THE CHOREOGRAPHER
We also have one international creative for you! FACT interviews the creative force hehind LIZZO, John Legend and Janelle Monae's top performances, Jemel McWilliams. A creative artistic director with over 10 years of experience, his creativity and skilled techniques have been displayed globally in performances by some of the music industry's most prominent artists. Photographs by Wes Klein What skills did you learn as a dancer that make you a creative choreographer? One of the best parts about being a dancer before you venture into being a choreographer is that your experience on stage helps guide your decision making as a Choreographer. Most people think the role of a Choreographer is solely based on coming up with steps. There is so much more to this job than that. You are also responsible for managing a lot of different moving parts to the performance, one being the dancers, so having a dance background helps the Choreographer put themselves in the dancer's shoes. There are times when Choreographers expect dancers to do the impossible, and as much as dancers are superheroes in my eyes, having been a professional dancer for 10 years I know there are limits to what is humanly possible, so I try to take that into consideration when giving direction to dancers.
What inspired you to become a choreographer? I am a storyteller by nature and have always had a vivid imagination. When I hear music, I always see a full visual in my head. One day I decided to try and recreate what I saw in my head using movement; years later, I found myself doing it full time. Have you always been a dancer and at what age did you begin dancing? I began dancing at the age of 10 and danced at every opportunity I got (family functions, for random people on the bus, talent shows) whatever, wherever. I stopped dancing when I went to High School and didn't start back again until I started teaching at an afterschool program in the Bronx after I graduated college. That was the start of my professional career. 36
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You are known for creating narratives with your freeflowing moves. Before you develop a dance routine, what do you need to determine? Before I begin choreographing, I ALWAYS have to connect with the music and visualize the story I feel like it's telling. Everything has a story. It can be the smallest thing like the way an Artist takes a breath in between two words. For me, that breath is a part of the narrative and has value. Oftentimes if I can't connect to a song, choreographing to it from a place of truth and honesty is a lot more challenging. I've never not been able to connect in some way, shape for form to a song I've been asked to choreograph and I am thankful for that. Can you please describe the creative process that goes into developing a dance routine? Are you driven by the music first or a specific concept? My creative process usually begins with me closing my eyes while listening to the song and just taking it in. I'm never looking for a concept or story, I'm just allowing myself to be an open creative vessel and letting the creativity flow through me. Oftentimes concepts and ideas come to me right away. Some take longer than others. After I "catch a vibe" I begin to just allow my body to move. I freestyle a lot of the first drafts of my choreography and then build from there. I always start with a vision and I see how it evolves. How long would it usually take to choreograph a performance such as Janelle Monae's 'You Make Me Feel' at the 2019 Grammy Awards? I had two choreography prep days for the 2019 Grammy's with Janelle as well as the 2020 Grammy's with Lizzo. I'm usually tweaking and refining the choreography until the last rehearsal, but most times the window to actually choreograph is pretty small.
time. I went once within the first month of me being in L.A., and it's become one of my favorite physical, mental and spiritual activities. Hiking can be so meditative, centering, and a great full body work-out. It is also great because I get to be out in the sun. I'm usually stuck in a dance studio for 12-14 hours a day, so getting out and getting some sun while maintaining my physical health is rewarding. You have worked with some very high-profile artists such as Alicia Keys, Kelly Rowland and Tracee Ellis Ross. Did any of these artists impart any advice to you that you can share with the readers of FACT? Most of the artists that I have ever worked with have taught me either explicitly or implicitly through their actions to be MYSELF and trust my gifts. What advice would you give to aspiring choreographers? Trust the process. I rose to my leadership position after many years of being a dancer, then 2nd Assistant Choreographer, 1st Assistant Choreographer, Associate Choreographer, Co-Choreographer and then Choreographer. I didn't skip any of these steps in my journey, and I'm so thankful I didn't. I learned priceless information that has shaped my perspective and approach to choreographing and artistic directing. ✤
GO: FOLLOW @JEMELMCWILLIAMS FOR MORE INFORMATION.
What is your proudest career moment thus far? I have SOOOO many proud career moments. They are all so special to me. One of the proudest moments was a performance I put together for Janelle Monae for a major TV show, and we changed the song the night before the performance around 1:00am after we had just finished a tour show at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It was an insane undertaking. I think that's why I enjoyed the challenge so much. I remember being up until 5:00am casting performers (dancers, actors, singers) and then telling everyone to meet me in midtown NYC at 8:00am and even though I had no idea if we could get into a rehearsal space that early. I just had to have faith that everything would work out. And it did! Whew… If I'm being honest, I shed a tear at the end of that performance. Maybe because it was really touching and part of me could not believe we pulled it off. Or maybe because I hadn't really slept in a couple of days and I was beyond exhausted. What is your fitness routine and how do you stay in shape, aside from dancing? Once I moved to L.A. I noticed everyone loved hiking. I never understood what all the hype was about. Being from Washington, D.C. we never "hiked'. I never even thought of hiking as a pastfact magazine
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WHERE THE HAJAR MOUNTAINS MEET THE INDIAN OCEAN NESTLED BETWEEN THE TOWERING PEAKS OF THE HAJAR MOUNTAINS AND THE SANDY SHORES OF THE INDIAN OCEAN LIES THE PICTURESQUE INTERCONTINENTAL FUJAIRAH RESORT. DAVID TAPLEY EXPERIENCES AN EXCEPTIONAL STAYCATION WHERE ARABIAN HOSPITALITY MEETS LUXURY.
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pproximately two hours drive from Dubai lies the emirate of Fujairah. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to get away from it all, where rocky outcrops and isolated beaches make up a landscape quite unlike anywhere else you may have seen in the UAE. From the outside, the InterContinental Fujairah Resort resembles a gleaming white fortress and from the moment the exterior doors swing open we know we're in for an exceptional stay. A sweet and aromatic fragrance wafts through the air as we catch a glimpse of palm trees and the turquoise waters of the Indian ocean. The lobby area is simply stunning with a bright open foyer encompassing metal structures of frolicking horses and the hotel boasts a simple elegance in terms of both decor and service. The check-in process is efficient and takes place in a majlis environment that embraces the Arabian hospitality of the region. Pure Luxury With Ocean Panoramas: All of the InterContinental Fujairah Resorts 190 guest rooms and suites are ocean-facing which is precisely what we would expect when spending time at the beach. The guest rooms take over the hotel's upper levels and are generously sized when compared to other properties in the emirate. Our one-bedroom Deluxe Suite
provides plenty of living space and room for relaxation with stunning views over the hotels perfectly manicured gardens, to the infinity pool and the ocean which crashes upon a natural sandy bay. The suite provides everything (and more) that we could want from a beach holiday. A large balcony full of comfortable seating offers a sense of tranquillity, while the living area is beyond conformable with its marble flooring, four-seater dining table and plush sofa area that surrounds a large flat-screen television. Did someone say movie night? Modern comfort is paramount within the suites and ease for the guests is of high priority. Everything from the lights to the curtains can be controlled at the touch of a button on the illuminated wall-mounted control panels. The bedroom features hardwood floors and a ridged blue carpet that gives the impression that waves from the ocean have been brought inside. A large comfortable bed is flanked by light wood furnishings and a chaise lounge, perfectly positioned for reading or taking a cheeky afternoon nap. The constant crashing of waves is a soothing sound that lulls us to sleep each night. The marble bathroom features a deep tub that could comfortably fit two people, a double vanity, plus a dressing room with an abundance of wardrobe space, alongside a separate rainfall shower. fact magazine
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Delectable Dining: When it comes to gastronomy, the culinary team at InterContentinal Fujairah Resort take things very seriously. All-day-dining restaurant NAMA features a mixture of buffet and รก la carte options which are heightened thanks to the strong service levels that are not always associated with an all-daydining spot. Whether its breakfast waffles and pancakes or the Beef Wellington, dining amongst the towering palm trees and the light and airy ambience of NAMA is a distinct pleasure. Drift Seafood Kitchen and Bar should not be missed on a visit to Fujairah and the restaurant is likely to draw guests from around the emirate even if they aren't necessarily staying at the property. At lunchtime, the venue feels like a beach house with its light snacks, poolside fare (don't miss the shrimp tacos) and sunken seating overlooking the beach. With the arrival of nightfall the venue transforms into a serious fine-dining contender with an exquisite selection of seafood-inspired dishes. Dine under the star-filled sky next to a blazing fire pit or head inside and be delighted by the sounds of in-house band, The Butchery Boys who will have your toes tapping in no time. The menu may primarily revolve around seafood, but our recommendation would be to order the Nespresso beef short ribs with parsnip puree which are undeniably tender and packed full of flavour. For those with a sweet tooth, the Chocolate Box dessert is not to be missed! We won't ruin the surprise but we will say that the presentation and execution of the dish are impeccable and will likely leave you with a lasting impression of Drift Seafood Kitchen and Bar. Fantastic Facilities in Fujairah: In terms of facilities, the InterContinental Fujairah Resort offers yoga, tennis and a selection of three swimming pools - two family pools, plus an exclusive adult-only day club. The infinity pool with its spacious floating cabanas would be our preference, for not only are the waters pleasingly temperature controlled but the pool is a stones throw from the beach, so you can hop between the two areas easily. Speaking of the beach, the private stretch of sand is patrolled by lifeguards and offers plenty of sun loungers for relaxing and working on that all-important tan. The beaches of Fujairah are not as busy as those in Dubai and feel far more 42
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natural, with a darker coloured sand and a topography of steep mountains tumbling towards the ocean waves. Fujairah is a popular weekend staycation spot for UAE residents and global travellers looking for a quieter experience than what is offered in Dubai. While many will visit purely to flop on the beach, there is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. Culture vultures shouldn't miss Al Bidya, the UAE's oldest mosque, perched high on a mountainside, and well worth a visit. During the cooler months, head into Fujairah town to see the weekly bull-butting competitions or take to one of the many mountain paths and wadis for hiking. Suppose you're more about finding your sea legs. In that case, water sports are available, or you can travel north into neighbouring Oman and explore the Musandam Peninsular for a dhow cruise with snorkelling and the chance to see dolphins. As an outdoor paradise, the InterContinental Fujairah Resort makes for the perfect base to explore the Northern Emirates or to spend some much needed relaxation time. Supported by the natural beauty of Al Aqah Beach, this resort is located upon one of the most delightful stretches of sand in the country and is a wonderful choice for those looking to get away from it all. The beauty of a stay at the InterContinental Fujairah Resort is the ability to relax and unwind, with everything you may need located within easy access. As a popular weekend spot for UAE residents to visit, there's no pressure for sightseeing itineraries or choosing a restaurant, for everything is right there within the confines of the resort. Relax on the private beach, sunbathe by the temperature-controlled pools or get your mind and body in-sync with tennis and yoga. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.FUJAIRAH.INTERCONTINENTAL.COM OR CALL (0)9 209 9999 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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EAT, SLEEP, REPEAT
David Tapley rediscovers Le Royal MĂŠridien Abu Dhabi, one of the city's landmark hotels and indulges in the new 'eat for your sleep' package. fact magazine
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• HOTEL HOTSPOT
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trategically positioned in the heart of Abu Dhabi's commercial district, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi is a hotel that makes quite the impression. When viewed from outside the distinctive avant-garde exterior rises skywards and is topped with the only revolving lounge in the capital but when viewed from above, the hotel is said to resemble an eye. Constructed over two decades ago by the Royal family of Abu Dhabi, the hotel has garnered a strong reputation for quality food and beverages and a comfortable nights sleep. A relaxing weekend on Abu Dhabi's Corniche was just what we needed given the hectic situation of the past few months and despite the global pandemic, we felt safe and secure throughout our stay. Temperatures were checked on arrival, glass screens are in place on reception desks, and masks, gloves and hand sanitiser are abundant. This may be the new normal, but the safety of guests is a top priority and from the moment we enter the bright and welcoming lobby, we feel immediately at ease. We are enticed to Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi thanks to their new 'eat for your sleep' package. Providing guests who book a Corner City View Room with AED 500 food and beverage credit, which can be redeemed within the hotel's operational food and beverage outlets. A great excuse to not only enjoy a luxury five-star hotel stay but to also experience the culinary offerings, whether that be a lazy breakfast at Market Kitchen, a date night dinner at Stratos or some hearty pub grub at P. J. O'Reilly's. The hotel has recently undergone a comprehensive renovation and refurbishment and it certainly shows. Our Corner City View Room on the 17th floor is light, spacious and designed with convenience in mind for both the business and leisure traveller. Combining contemporary comfort with state-of-the-art facilities and modern design, the rooms are decorated in neutral tones, with murals above the bed providing vibrant pops of colour. The views are spectacular and we can see everything from the hotel's swimming pool to the glittering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, as speedboats whizz around Lulu Island, renowned for its orange sand dunes. At 28sqm, the room provides high levels of comfort and features a beautifully soft bed, 39-inch LED television, USB outlets, safety deposit box, mini-refrigerator and tea and coffee making facilities. We love the ease at which we can connect our devices throughout the room, meaning a Netflix marathon or Spotify dance party are available at the touch of a button. For those who need to work, there is a small writing desk and chair that are ideally positioned to capture those city views and inspire you as you work. The marble bathroom features a shower/tub combination and makes excellent use of the space with its raised sink and illuminated makeup mirror. Whether you opt for the powerful rainfall shower or a soak in the large bathtub, you'll feel enlivened and fresh when it's time to hit the food and beverage outlets to spend that credit. The decision of where to dine is likely to be the only predicament you'll encounter when staying at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi. With the 'eat for your sleep' package providing AED 500 credit, two people can comfortably eat at some of the most highly-regarded restaurants in the capital. With a reputation to match its stratospheric name, reach for new heights and marvel at the evolving view as day turns to night at Stratos. Abu Dhabi's only revolving lounge provides 360-degree
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views of Abu Dhabi during each 90-minute revolution and a grill menu to match. If you're after something more casual, then P. J. O'Reilly's is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy pub grub classics inside the restaurant poolside on the terrace. We opt for Market Kitchen, renowned for its sophisticated dining room that beautifully combines the traditional farmhouse kitchen (evidenced by rolling pins, milkshake glasses and numerous trinkets scattered across the expansive shelving) with distinct modern touches. A collection of lamps hang from the ceiling and bathe the space with a warm orange glow, while the glass atrium provides the illusion of dining al fresco. The restaurant's new 'su-viche' promotion is a pleasant way to while away a weekend evening with a twohour brunch style offering that includes a selection of raw dishes and unlimited beverages. The first course consists of a variety of ceviche (white fish in tiger milk, tuna in kimchi tiger milk and salmon in miso tiger milk) that arrive at the table alongside some impressive presentation. A selection of moreish flatbreads, crisp plantain chips and French fries provide some much-needed carbs but it's their crispy sushi that continues to leave a lasting impression, no matter how many times we indulge. Priced at AED 199 per person, 'su-viche' is offered on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 7pm. Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi continues to strike a chord with residents and visitors to Abu Dhabi and the new 'eat for your sleep package' offers exceptional value for money. With AED 500 food
and beverage credit for every Corner City View Room, or AED 800 for any Suite booked, there's never been a better excuse to book that weekend escape in Abu Dhabi. ✤
GO: CALL (0)2 674 2020 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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BIG SCREEN PROJECT POWER
Highlights
LOVECRAFT COUNTRY WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
When a pill that gives its users unpredictable superpowers for five minutes hits the streets of New Orleans, a teenager and a local cop must team up with an ex-soldier to take down the group responsible for its creation.
DIRECTOR: Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman CAST: Jamie Foxx, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Dominique Fishback
WHY IS IT WORTH WATCHING?
The latest film to be released on streaming giant Netflix is Project Power. Looking to capitalise on the current trend for all things superheroes, this big-budget production doesn’t examine the usual superhero tropes or origin story. Instead, it throws us straight into chaotic and impressively staged action sequences from the get-go. Hollywood A-listers Jamie Foxx and Joseph Gordon-Levitt put in great performances, but it’s relative newcomer Dominique Fishback who will likely capture the attention of audiences. The concept of a pill that can provide temporary access to superpowers is a novel one and, while the film does take time in setting up the premise, it’s a thrilling one hour and 53 minutes of screen time supported by some remarkable visual effects once the action hits.
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Hollywood A-listers Jamie Foxx and Joseph Gordon-Levitt put in great performances, but it’s relative newcomer Dominique Fishback who will likely capture the attention of audiences.” – Project Power
Lovecraft Country follows Atticus Black as he joins up with his friend Letitia and his uncle George to embark on a road trip across 1950s Jim Crow America in search of his missing father. This begins a struggle to survive the terrifying monsters that could be ripped straight from a H.P. Lovercraft paperback.
CREATORS: Misha Green, Jordan Peele CAST: Jonathan Majors, Jurnee Smollett, Courtney B. Vance
WHY IS IT WORTH WATCHING?
Based on Matt Ruff’s novel of the same name, Lovecraft Country is executive produced by showrunner Misha Green along with J.J. Abrams and Jordan Peele, so based on the talent involved we were expecting big things. The eight-episode first season follows our central trio as they traverse Jim Crow America in search of a missing relative and discover so much more than they had anticipated along the way. The series couldn’t have debuted at a better time as it tackles a lot of present-day issues and poses the ultimate question in the process: are people scarier than monsters? What starts out as a drama offset with uneasy framing and a prevalent sense of dread turns into an all-out horror assault by the end of episode one! It’s this remarkable ability to balance genres while also providing social commentary that makes Lovecraft Country a compelling watch from start to finish.
ENTERTAINMENT •
FULLY BOOKED
ON THE RECORD
FICTION
Midnight Sun
R&B
AFROBEATS
B7
Twice As Tall
By Brandy B7 is the seventh studio album by R&B songstress Brandy and her first studio album in eight years following the success of 2012’s Two Eleven. Having been in the entertainment industry from a very young age, it is no surprise that Brandy co-wrote and co-produced 14 of the 15 songs on this new album that focuses on themes of self-love, motherhood and the examination of romantic relationships. B7 is a cathartic listening experience that begins with “Saving All My Love”, a track that works as an apology to the fans for Brandy’s musical absence. The album then works through its intricate examination of relationships, and this is never more present than on standout track “Borderline”, which sees Brandy self-reflect and confront the weaknesses within her own relationships. Guest features are sparing on B7 but the Chance the Rapper assisted “Baby Mama” is an upbeat look at single motherhood, while Daniel Caesar lends his vocals to the sultry “Love Again”. The final track is perhaps one of the most honest pieces of music in Brandy’s catalogue as she discusses her mental health issues and newfound positivity with the memorable “Bye BiPolar.” After such a prolonged absence, it’s great to see this R&B heavyweight return to form.
By Burna Boy Having featured on tracks for big names such as Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Dave, Jorja Smith and J Hus, 2020 is definitely Burna Boy’s year. Now, only one year after the release of his last album, the Nigerian star is back with his latest project, Twice As Tall. Burna Boy is exceptionally confident and cleverly uses African music meshed with hip-hop, R&B, dancehall and reggae influences to create a unique musical style with mass appeal. The opening track “Level Up” features a looped sample from the 1959 movie Journey to the Centre of the Earth to startling effect, while guest appearances include the likes of Chris Martin on “Monsters You Made” (a track about Burna’s disenchantment), and UK rapper Stormzy on “Real Life”. Yet, it’s the crossover appeal of Burna Boy’s music that makes his fifth studio project such an exciting listen. Executive produced by Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, this project couldn’t have arrived at a better time as it rides the meteoric rise of Afrobeats in popular culture.
By Stephanie Meyer From the author of the Twilight saga comes a new look at the series that has enraptured millions of readers worldwide. Midnight Sun is a companion novel to the 2005 book Twilight and retells its events from the perspective of vampire Edward Cullen instead of that of the series’ usual narrating character, Bella Swan. This unforgettable new take on the romance between mortal and vampire takes on a new and decidedly dark twist and is essential reading for all you Twihards and fanpires.
FICTION
The Yield By Tara June Winch August Gondiwindi has been living on the other side of the world for 10 years when she learns of her grandfather’s death. She returns home for his burial, wracked with grief and burdened with all she tried to leave behind. Her homecoming is bittersweet as she confronts the love of her kin and news that her childhood home is to be repossessed by a mining company. Determined to make amends, she endeavours to save their land – a quest that leads her to the voice of her grandfather and into the past, the stories of her people, the secrets of the river. Winner of the 2020 Miles Franklin literary award, this is one novel you don’t want to miss.
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• PLUGGED IN
APP-L ICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER...
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ASKWHO
BLOSSOM
ASKWHO is based on distance and allows users to communicate with people in their area at a click of a button. By opening the app, your phone will discover those in the area, allowing you to connect to their social platforms and interact at your leisure. Perhaps you’ve seen someone out running and recognised them from somewhere? Or someone in your building needs help with a new project and you have the perfect skill set to help? Built with busy working professionals in mind, the app includes a ‘save search’ feature that remembers those who were around you, allowing you to go back and find the person who caught your eye at a business conference or left a lasting impression. The ASKWHO app creates a sense of community at a time when we need it most by making socialising interactive and networking accessible.
Roses are red, violets are blue... ready to know all the plants around you? Whether you are an expert gardener, contemplating house greenery, enjoy tending to your garden or living your greenest life, Blossom is the app for you! Taking care of plants can be fun and a great form of relaxation and, with the Blossom app, you can learn everything you need to give your green friends a long and happy life. Identify thousands of plants and get howtos and useful tips, receive reminders to water your greenery on time, and find out the best way to fertilise and repot your plants. Start taking care of your private Blossom-ing garden and you’ll have green fingers in absolutely no time.
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35% off your next city escape at InterContinental Abu Dhabi Authentic Lebanese Cuisine
Freshly Prepared Seafood
Belgian Brews & Mussels
PO BOX 4171, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al Said Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE l Tel: +971 2 6666 888
www.icad.ae
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• PLUGGED IN
THE NOVA FACTOR Meet your next go-to smartphone HUAWEI nova 7 5G for crisp photos and exceptional videos. With the smartphone game continually evolving, users expect more and more from their handheld devices as lives are quite literally planned in the palm of our hands. Huawei has come to the rescue when it comes to smartphone enhancements and camera functionality with the launch of its trendy new handset, the HUAWEI nova 7 5G. Packed full of exciting hardware and new features, the flagship smartphone features a high-resolution 64MP AI Quad Camera that is designed for all scenarios – bright beaches and dark restaurants included. The 7nm Kirin 985 5G chipset supports the 5G network while offering robust performance and powerful image processing. Having had our hands on the latest Huawei device for the last few days, we are excited not only by the impressive camera and extended battery life, but also the slim design that feels significantly lighter than we are accustomed to. The feel in the hand is an absolute pleasure and the lightweight design adds to the ease of use, especially when it comes to texting. Our smartphones have become replacements for bulky cameras when it comes to documenting our lives on Instagram, and the HUAWEI nova 7 5G offers uncomplicated shooting paired with uncompromising quality. At the same time, nighttime shooting is seamless thanks to Huawei’s 4-in-1 pixel binning technology that captures more light to produce brighter and clearer photos. The phone also features an 8MP Ultra Wide Angle Lens to capture expansive landscapes or those tricky group shots. The addition of an 8MP Telephoto Lens and a 2MP Macro allows you to shoot in great detail, whether you are up close or far away. Capturing videos, however, is where the HUAWEI nova 7 5G truly 54
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shines and the phone supports high-resolution 4K capture in all settings, including time-lapse. But our favourite feature has to be the new dual-view video mode that allows you to capture footage from both the front and rear cameras at the same time! This is a real game-changer, enabling you to capture selfies and reactions, and will prove particularly useful for YouTubers and vloggers. When it comes to battery life, Huawei devices impress us time and again – and the nova 7 5G is no different. You’ll likely be out and about all day long without having to charge your phone with this one. The hardware and build should also be noted; even after 20 minutes of intense gameplay that pushes the phone to its full capacity, the device does not get hot, an unfortunate reality that we’ve experienced with other devices all too often. Finally, the ease at which content can be shared across your social media platforms should be applauded, for HUAWEI nova 7 5G comes pre-installed with the Huawei AppGallery, meaning all your favourite apps are available for easy download. And further help is at hand through the nifty Petal Search Widget - Find Apps, which currently supports over 40 languages and is available in 45 countries and regions, with plans for wider rollout to even more countries in the future. It will help you find apps that aren’t on the AppGallery, and is now available to download. ✤
GO: VISIT HTTPS://CONSUMER.HUAWEI.COM/AE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
CITY RIDES •
THE ALL-NEW
2020 MG RX8 THE RX8 IS ESTABLISHING ITSELF AS A MAJOR CONTENDER IN THE SUV SEGMENT
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• CITY RIDES
D
espite the fact MG Motors was established as far back as 1920, the brand has been slow in gaining the level of popularity enjoyed by other well-known car manufacturers. However, we are now witnessing, through the ever-increasing surge in MG motor vehicle sales, that this is swiftly changing. Best known for producing two-seater sports cars, MG Motors, now under Chinese ownership, went on to develop a variety of saloon models and eventually, coupés. In 2016, we at FACT Magazine got to experience the brand’s first sports utility vehicle, namely the MG GS, and immediately recognised the potential this manufacturer has to develop competitive motor vehicles for this market segment. This month we were offered the opportunity to test drive the allnew 2020 MG RX8, an offer we readily accepted. As the RX8 came into view for the first time, we were struck by the bold yet uncomplicated design of the exterior. At the front end, the dual-slot bonnet complemented by a silver lower lip delivers a touch of class, whilst the chrome grille and matrix-style LED foglamps add a modern touch. The authoritative presence of the RX8 is enhanced by its smooth body lines, seamlessly connecting the design of the front end to that of the rear, whilst 20-inch alloy wheels hint at the vehicle’s on-road intentions. At the back end, LED tail lights, LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights showcase the quality of this model, along with the roof spoiler and stylish twin chrome exhaust. Once inside the cabin, it was plain to see why MG is fast gaining a reputation for delivering premium finishes. Highend materials including chrome, wood grain and soft-touch trim ensure the interior of the RX8 has a first-class feel to it. The top-quality leather used for the seating was provided by the German company Bader who are one of the world’s top manufacturers of premium leather for the automotive industry. These ventilated seats are not only exceptionally comfortable but well positioned, with the front two seats being multi-adjustable. Space and practicality are areas of design where the RX8 begins to rise above the competition. An ingenious “theatrestyle” seating design has incorporated a front-to-rear gradient, ensuring that even the third row of passengers are gifted with an exceptional view. The adjustable reach in the second row of seating provides third-row passengers easy access to their seats, whilst the ample legroom on offer is the largest thirdrow space in the class. The flexible nature of the rear seats allows for varied combinations of seating layouts that will meet all travel requirements. Besides from the 37 different storage compartments found throughout the vehicle, the boot capacity can be extended to a massive 2178 litres, that’s room for up to nine large suitcases. MG models are currently renowned for offering some of the finest and most user-friendly technology available for motor vehicles. This includes, as standard, wireless phone charging and smartphone connectivity with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, linked to a 10-inch colour touchscreen. Dual Zone Climate Control, with additional climate control in the 56
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rear is yet another standard feature for this model, whilst the panoramic sunroof ensures a well-lit interior. An interesting component of the RX8 is the inclusion of three standard appliance plugs that allow you to use a variety of household products inside your vehicle. This is an ideal feature for road trips and one that is only shared with the latest Range Rover models. Powered by an efficient 220 hp, 2.0-litre petrol engine that boasts Net Blue Technology and produces a maximum torque of 360 Nm, this car is clearly no toy. Combined with a six-speed automatic gearbox complete with paddle-shift gear change, the RX8 is an enjoyable vehicle to drive. This model has an advanced 4x4 system that can conquer any off-road conditions in the Gulf and offers six different driving modes. Switching to Sport Mode immediately provides a superior driving experience, vastly increasing the vehicle’s responsiveness and acceleration. The braking system is effective and along with great traction control, ensures you always feel in charge of the driving experience, even around tricky bends.
CITY RIDES •
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• CITY RIDES
“
HIGH-END MATERIALS INCLUDING CHROME, WOOD GRAIN AND SOFTTOUCH TRIM ENSURE THE INTERIOR OF THE RX8 HAS A FIRST-CLASS FEEL TO IT.”
Safety wise, this model has been equipped with an impressive range of features that have earned the RX8 a five-Star C-NCAP safety rating. These include front and rear sensors with rear view camera, front, side and curtain airbags, Active Rollover Protection as well as a Tyre Monitoring System. The LUX trim includes further Advanced Driver Assistance Systems such as Lane Departure Warning, helping to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. Overall, we found the all-new MG RX8 to be an attractive, functional and performance orientated vehicle, one that is ensuring the brand’s competitive place in the SUV segment. ✤ 58
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CONTACT AL YOUSUF MOTORS ON (0)4 509 4013 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.
MAKING WAVES Backstage at the Autumn Winter 2020 show, dunhill reveals an exploration of its new and established codes with an unapologetically expressive campaign entitled The New Wave. fact magazine
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• FASHION FOCUS The old guard and the avant-garde are both celebrated in the latest dunhill collection, where tradition and subversion work together in a distinctly British way. The technical specificity of menswear is celebrated, with British tailoring traditions explored and experimented with, providing a new take on deconstruction. Leitmotifs from previous collections reach a culmination in this one, becoming a settled part of the fabric of dunhill. Codes of class and creativity, of the establishment and the anti-establishment, find form once more. The introduction of pegged trousers in felt and eel skin, a nod to the New Romantics, provide a more relaxed lower half to the silhouette. Standard suiting is eschewed, yet tailoring is both rigorous and sensuous. The wrapped jacket is now also strapped, a subtle play on bondage. Silk knit neckpieces, strong structured shoulders and high break jackets provide a new, sinuous elegance in the upper half. Town and country come together in hints of the equestrian. Luxurious leather outerwear, a tour de force of capes and overcoats in calf and eel, provide drama and yet are engineered and bonded for practicality. Kimono sleeves add to the exploration of volume and structure while the notion of tailoring itself is deconstructed with its secret codes exposed - the inner becoming outer. Here, Melton felt resides under collars, chest canvas and acetate linings emerge, utility is transformed into elegance. Brothel creepers and Link strap loafers provide the grounding, accessorised with the new Lock bags. For Autumn Winter 2020, dunhill introduces three new footwear styles direct from the Paris runway: the dunhill Creeper Derby, Creeper loafer and the dunhill Link loafer. Inspired by the platformsoled creepers associated with British punk culture of the 1970s, the lace-up Creeper Derby and slip-on Creeper loafer are finished in black brushed calf leather for a luxurious take on this distinctly British style. Playing with proportions, the dunhill Link loafer combines a slim leather sole with exaggerated chain link hardware, referencing chain watch straps - a cross between the preppy and the new wave.✤ GO: SHOP THE LATEST COLLECTION AT WWW.DUNHILL.COM
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FASHION FOCUS •
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• FASHION FOCUS
SHOP THE BRAND HERE’S OUR WISHLIST FROM THE DUNHILL AUTUMN WINTER 2020 COLLECTION FOR HIM
THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN DUNHILL STORES ACROSS THE GULF. 62
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THE BEST OF ASIA
Gather with friends and enjoy Asian flavours, with interactive live cooking stations, serving the best variety of Asian cuisine on Saadiyat Island. Join us at The Lounge, located on the 5th floor, with amazing views of the shoreline - there is no better location to enjoy a laid back sumptuous Friday brunch! Every Friday from 11 September | 12:30 – 16:00 AED 375 Inclusive of Soft Beverages | AED 475 Inclusive of House Beverages AED 575 Inclusive of Premium Bubbly AED 115 for kids 7 to 14 yrs | Complimentary 0 to 6 yrs
To book, call +971 2 811 4342 or email JSIrestaurants@jumeirah.com All Prices are in UAE Dirham and are Inclusive of all Applicable Service Charges and VAT
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• BRAND FOCUS
FENTY SKIN REVEALED
THE NEW CULTURE OF SKINCARE HAS ARRIVED WITH THE LAUNCH OF FENTY SKIN FROM RIHANNA.
F
enty Skin represents clean, uncomplicated, effective skincare for all. Led by brand CEO Robyn Rihanna Fenty, Fenty Skin is the result of Rihanna’s skincare journey, global experiences and real-life routine. It’s no secret that Rihanna has amazing skin but it hasn’t always come easy. As a teen, she was overwhelmed by all of the skincare options out there and even tried a product that discoloured her skin, which scared her from trying anything else for a long time. Ultimately, after years of global experiences and exposure to so many skincare solutions, Rihanna dreamed of creating a skincare line that was clean, simple, effective, and most importantly, for all. “Fenty Skin is everything I wish I had back then,” she says. “I wanted it to feel approachable, easy, and to take the pressure off choosing a routine, so I created one for everyone.” Fenty Skin launches with three multitasking products that are easy to use and are value-packed with skincare benefits. Known together as the Fenty Skin Start’rs, these three products comprise Rihanna’s real-life routine for getting healthy, glowing skin in just a few simple steps. It’s all designed to complement Fenty Beauty makeup and has been tested on all skin types and tones to work seamlessly. Inspired by her global lifestyle, Rihanna brings together ingredients from around the world and pairs them with skincare powerhouses, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. She’s prioritised clean formulas that are also oil-free, vegan and gluten-free, made with earth-conscious and recyclable materials where possible. Plus, she’s elevated the entire experience with supple, unique textures and warm, delicious scents inspired by the ingredients in each product. Every multitasking product is easy to use and packed with benefits and has been tested on all skin types and tones. It’s for everyone, even the fellas. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.FENTYSKIN.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION. 64
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BRAND FOCUS •
Rihanna’s way: Your best skin in three simple steps: Step 1: Wash your face with total cleans’r remove-it-all cleanser for hyper-clean, soft skin without stripping or drying. Step 2: Smooth your way to pore perfection with fat water pore-refining toner serum which instantly refines the look of pores, reduces the look of dark spots and evens skin tone and fights shine without stripping skin. Step 3: Save face with invisible sun protection with hydra vizor invisible moisturiser broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for light-as-air hydration and invisible sun protection that defends and brightens the skin while reducing the look of pores.
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• BEAUTY BOX
Beauty Checklist THIS MONTH’S BEAUTY GAME IS SERIOUSLY STRONG.
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This serum contains over one billion live probiotic microbes per millilitre that are activated on contact with water on the skin and, once active, equip the skin to rectify imbalances and strengthen barrier function for a firmer, more resilient skin. The serum is suitable for all skin types and through its highly evolved action of creating biological equilibrium, it is exceptionally effective for skin that is showing any form of stress.
CODAGE MOISTURISING MASK This moisturising mask offers an intensely nourishing emulsion that regenerates and moisturises dry skin. This complete and nourishing skincare product is enriched with oils and plant-based waxes and will strengthen the hydrolipidic layer and reconstruct the cutaneous barrier. An enzymatic peel gently acts to stimulate cell renewal and bring radiance back to the complexion. Within a few minutes, the skin is comfortable, soft to touch and perfectly glowing.
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ESSE PROBIOTIC SERUM
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FORMULA 10.0.6 BEST FACE FORWARD FOAMING CLEANSER This fresh, foaming gel cleanser washes away oil and impurities for a sparkling, clear complexion. Green tea and chamomile pacify while passionfruit balances the skin to leave you looking clean, clear and healthy every day.
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PHILIP KINGSLEY ELASTICIZER THERAPIES Seeking something for extremely damaged hair? This super moisturising intensive treatment adds silkiness, suppleness, elasticity, bounce and strength, and the clever ingredient combination continues to provide UV protection – even after washing..
FENTY BEAUTY
LAURA MERCIER
BROW MVP BROW SCULPTING WAX PENCIL AND STYLER
ILLUMINATING EYE CREAM
This clear, universal brow wax features an easy-grip pencil as well as a sweat-and water-resistant formula that shapes and sets with a long-wear, flexible-but-firm hold. The truly clear formula is suitable for all hair colours and keeps brows on lock without residue or flakiness. Plus, the smart angled tip and built-in brush help you easily shape your brows for a range of styles from groomed definition to feathered and everything in between.
This innovative formula combines the benefits of an eye serum and eye cream to deliver instant and lasting hydration, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines. The lightweight yet richly nourishing cream helps to reduce the appearance of dryness, puffiness and dark circles to promote a more energised and youthful-looking complexion.
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• GROOMING BOX
Grooming Checklist FROM ANTI-AGEING EYE CREAM TO CONDITIONING BEARD OIL, HERE ARE OUR PRODUCTS OF THE MONTH…
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PARFUMS DE MARLY PEGASUS EXCLUSIF
Pegasus Exclusif has set off in pursuit of new masculinity and this fragrance bears the stamp of the contemporary man. With distinguishing marks of serene virility and exhilarating power, this unique creation embodies the sensuality of vanilla, infused with a twist of amber, sandalwood, natural oud and guaiac. Combined with floral heart notes of jasmine, lavender, bitter almond and geranium and a fine balance of fruits and spices including bergamot, pink pepper, cardamom and heliotrope, Pegasus Exclusif is a must-have fall fragrance.
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ESSE REFINING CLEANSER Esse Refining Cleanser is a lightly foaming clay wash that exfoliates while detoxifying. Bentonite clay particles act as superfine exfoliating granules while drawing out toxins, while Kalahari Melon oil adds essential omega-6 fatty acids to help maintain the skin’s lipid balance.
CODAGE FALL IN LOVE SERUM Fall In Love is the special fall edition to recharge the skin with essential resources before the arrival of winter. Moisturising, repairing, and antipollution, this serum helps to rebuild the skin’s matrix and equips it with all the necessary defences to effectively face the harsh seasonal changes ahead effectively. Detoxifying, energising and anti-blemish active ingredients deeply purify the skin to smooth out sunrelated pigmentation problems.
LIVING NATURE SOOTHING AFTERSHAVE GEL
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A soft gel that utilises the exceptional properties of Harakeke Flax Gel and Active Manuka Honey to hydrate and restores vitality to the skin. A cooling infusion of Calendula Oil and Witchhazel helps to soothe the skin after shaving. Native to New Zealand, the gel from Harakeke Flax is proven to be more hydrating than aloe vera. This, coupled with its cooling, calming and antimicrobial properties, helps purify the skin, while the miracle healer Active Manuka Honey helps nourish and restore vitality. Soothe, hydrate and refresh the skin, shave after shave.
PERRIS SKIN FITNESS The Skin Fitness eye cream is a high-performance all-natural skincare with multiple benefits and boasts clinically proven results. The skin feels more comfortable and well-hydrated thanks to this premium formula that offers an optimum effect on the skin. After continuous use, it provides skin with 24-hour hydration and will help minimise and diminish wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles.
TOM FORD
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CONDITIONING BEARD OIL The key to a well-kept beard is daily grooming and conditioning. This beard oil from Tom Ford conditions, softens and nourishes the beard with a lightweight blend of almond, jojoba and grapeseed oils as well as vitamin E. It is available in three iconic Tom Ford private blend scents: Oud Wood, Neroli Portofino and Tobacco Vanille.
NEW IN TOWN •
SHANGHAI SURPRISE
From 1930's Shanghai comes a contemporary take on fine Asian cuisine. David Tapley visits Shanghai ME to discover precisely what the East Asian hotspot in DIFC has to offer. fact magazine
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• NEW IN TOWN
L
ocated in Dubai's International Finance Centre, Shanghai ME is a restaurant that looks to showcase the glamour and depth of Shanghai's history and has been conceptualised with the aim to transport each visitor to experience life under
the dynasties. This certainly appears to be the case when we visit on a Sunday evening to find the restaurant almost nearing capacity and it is immediately evident that Shanghai ME has well and truly made an impact with Dubai diners. It's easy to see why. The exquisite dining room designed by Florence-based architect Michele BĂśnan is a homage to the Art Deco design elements of pre-war Shanghai. With red velvet seating adding a touch of sophistication to a room full of grand mirrors, strategically placed Pop Art pieces and ornate urns filled with floral blooms. As sophisticated as the dining room appears, it is the lounge and terrace that captures our attention. Filled with palm trees, banana plants and bamboo, the lively area is reminiscent of a verdant green jungle while still retaining the luxurious touches and Asian detailing of the restaurant space. The menu at Shanghai ME offers a contemporary approach to Asian cuisine and is rooted very much in tradition. Each dish has clearly been included for a specific reason, and the focus lies firmly on the precision and practice of culinary traditions that have taken centuries to perfect. We're talking classic dishes that have been passed down through generations and then given a unique Shanghai ME twist to enhance them for the fine-dining landscape of Dubai in 2020. Broken down into ten sections (plus desserts) the food menu represents a journey through the very best of East Asia. Taking in soups, appetisers, salads, vegetables, fish and shellfish, plus meat and poultry. We begin with Sesame Prawn on Toast (AED 90), large golden parcels that are generously portioned and presented impeccably upon a black slate. Each of the crisp parcels reveals an interior stuffed full of prawn and accompanied by a tantalising dipping sauce; it's easy to see why this particular appetiser is categorised as one of the Shanghai ME signature dishes. Despite the name of the restaurant, the menu at Shanghai ME isn't limited purely to Chinese cuisine, with the selection of dishes offered encompassing much of East Asia. We're delighted by the sushi selection which includes soft shell crab, spicy tuna tartare and yellowtail cut rolls, although for us, the Prawn Tempura Cut Roll (AED 65) is the one we'd recommend. Crisp prawns wrapped in perfectly portioned rice and covered in slithers of fresh avocado that will likely leave you wanting to place an immediate order for another plate. Premium ingredients come in to play with several dishes on the Shanghai ME menu which includes choices such as Japanese Wagyu Beef A5, Peking Duck with Chinese Caviar and Steamed Prawn and Truffle Dumplings Har Gau (AED 55). The latter dish hails from the 'dim sum library', a section of the menu dedicated to dumplings and spring rolls. This is perhaps our favourite part of the Shanghai ME dining experience, with the steamed parcels presented in a bamboo basket and adorned with a touch of edible gold. The dim sum themselves are subtle and
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delicate, as one would expect considering the combination of ingredients. The truffle is used sparingly, so as not to overpower the subtleties of the prawns. Our main courses come from the meat and seafood section of the menu, with The Wok Szechuan Beef with Mixed Vegetables (AED 160) boasting tender pieces of meat slathered in a thick and fiery Szechuan sauce that works nicely with an accompaniment of Kimchee Fried Rice (AED 50). Similarly, the Grilled Silver Cod with Yuzu Miso Sauce (AED 175) is as good an iteration of the popular dish as you are likely to find in Dubai. The flesh of the fish is infused beautifully with the sweet miso sauce, allowing for an impressive combination of both texture and flavour. Save room for dessert because those on offer at Shanghai ME work as a real showcase for East Asian flavours and ingredients. The ever-popular Milk Cake with Black Sesame Ice Cream (AED 60) represents a large portion of light and fluffy cake topped with candied nuts. While the accompanying mango, banana and passionfruit compote is a delight that hits all the right notes. The Pandant Brioche Cake (AED 60) represents an alternative and offers something a little more unique thanks to its green colouration and interplay of textures. There's also a Giant Fortune Cookie (AED 55) with a Hazelnut coating and chocolate
NEW IN TOWN •
and matcha mousse filling, that could bring you insight into the future and a dose of good fortune. Aside from the food, it's the buzzing atmosphere and attention to detail that set the bar at this DIFC hotspot. With reliable service and a focus on quality, it's easy to see why the latest opening from Bulldozer Group (the team behind Gaia and Scalini) has quickly become the talk of the town. Featuring a hidden dining table and a new openair terrace, Shanghai ME lives up to its reputation of "Art Deco elegance" and is highly recommended. Check it out at The Exchange building. ✤
GO: EMAIL RESERVATION@SHANGHAIME-RESTAURANT.COM OR CALL (0)4 564 0505 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION.
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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •
SKY HIGH DINING Rising 220 metres above sea level, CÉ LA VI Dubai located at the Address Sky View offers one of the highest rooftops in Dubai. David Tapley visits for an evening of contemporary Asian cuisine and inspiring city views. fact magazine
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hen it comes to the notion of dinner with a view, we are completely spoilt for choice in Dubai. Rooftops, beachfronts, dining aboard boats, or hanging from a suspended table in the sky, are all options offered at various locations throughout the city. Yet, nothing can quite compare us for the view at CÉ LA VI Dubai. Situated on the 54th floor of the Address Sky View hotel in the heart of Downtown Dubai, CÉ LA VI Dubai combines a contemporary Asian Restaurant, SkyBar, Lounge and Pool Deck into one multi-faceted dining experience that makes quite the impression. Greeted warmly by a hostess dressed in vibrant red couture we’re led into a dim dining room that exudes a sense of elegance and privacy. Circular light fittings cast pockets of light throughout the otherwise atmospheric dining space but it’s the views of the world’s tallest building that have us enraptured. We immediately make a mental note to return on another occasion for sundowners, as the vantage point that bridges the hotels two towers is truly exceptional. As the Dubai Fountains dance seamlessly below, we find ourselves gazing out over the city and feel the same sense of awe we experienced when seeing the Burj Khalifa for the first time. Whether visiting for drinks, dinner or a dip in the Sky Pool, it’s essential to make a reservation, as CÉ LA VI Dubai gets exceptionally busy. Even during our early evening dinner on a weeknight, the restaurant is buzzing and it would seem that this
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is currently one of the hottest spots in town. No matter where you choose to sit, the views remain and we find immediate comfort in not only the plush couch-style seating but the front of house team who emanate a warmth, friendliness and genuine interest in guests. The menu excites with its playful interpretation of contemporary Asian cuisine masterminded by Executive Chef Howard Ko and is divided into eight succinct sections that include ‘to start with’, ‘raw’, ‘market’ and ‘large format.’ Each dish has been designed to embody “elegant creations with theatrical flair that satisfy all the
CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •
senses” and we cannot wait to dig in! From the breads and spreads section, we begin with miso chickpea hummus with Korean chilli oil and a fresh yuzu labneh with pistachio verde. We gleefully mop up both dips with Chef Ko’s oven-hot and remarkably fluffy seaweed parker rolls (which eagle-eyed readers will recognise as one of our featured recipes in last month's issue). For more adventurous diners, CÉ LA VI Dubai offers several exciting menu choices. These include lacquered bone marrow with teriyaki and smoked vinegar, sweet and savoury shiitake mushroom doughnuts and braised lamb neck. Our selections however, are far more subdued, though no less refined. The pan-seared salmon with black garlic potato terrine, maitake mushrooms and warm wasabi buttermilk is an elevated interpretation of a dish that is available at countless restaurants throughout the city. It’s the unique CÉ LA VI twist from the wasabi buttermilk that transforms the delicate salmon into something adventurous and memorable. Similarly, the Westholme Wagyu beef is a generous portion of quality meat, served alongside roasted broccolini, pearl onions, confit potatoes, bone marrow and sauce Japonaise. A dish that works to truly engage the senses and leave a lasting impression thanks to the meats crisp exterior that gives way to the tender pink interior of our preferred medium-rare cooking temperature. Desserts again excite with the likes of the CÉ LA VI foie gras “snickers” candy bar and dark chocolate fondant with beetroot ice cream both making for appetising choices. It’s the mango cheesecake however, that steals our heart with its exotic caramel, cool mango sorbet and a sprinkling of Speculoos. With global locations including Singapore, Tokyo, Taipei and now Dubai. CÉ LA VI Dubai appears to have made its mark here in the United Arab Emirates thanks to a winning combination of food, beverage, ambience and that 'oh-so-memorable' view! ✤
GO: EMAIL RESERVATION-DXB@CELAVI.COM OR CALL (0)4 582 6111 FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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FOODIE CORNER •
THE SECRET'S OUT
David Tapley checks out the newest brunch from the Secret Parties' team, 'The Secret Italian Brunch at Palazzo Versace Dubai', before checking into the hotel for a weekend of luxurious relaxation. fact magazine
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ith countless brunches operating throughout the city, it's often challenging to pick a brunch that ticks all the boxes but the team at Secret Parties have done just that with the launch of their latest venture, The Secret Italian Brunch at Palazzo Versace Dubai. The setting is truly exquisite, given that Palazzo Versace Dubai has a reputation for being one of the most luxurious hotels in the region. A fashion hotel where everything from the floor mosaics to the wallpaper and staff uniforms are instilled with the Versace charm and exquisite attention-to-detail. As we move through the impressive lobby replete with decadent light fittings, a grand piano and chairs upholstered in Versace fabrics, we already know we're in for a treat. Our brunch venue is Vanitas, the hotel's upmarket Italian restaurant and a space that exudes a sense of sophistication as soon as we enter. We are met with elegant interiors and a backdrop of the Dubai Creek, alongside impeccably laid tables topped with pressed white table cloths and sparkling glassware. We must confess to being immediately taken with the crockery and cutlery which contain the Versace logo - the head of mythical Greek figure Medusa. Being a Secret Parties' brunch, the ambience is crucial. As we dine, we are immersed in a world of live entertainment from an electric violinist and Opera singer Joseph Terterian, who effortlessly serenades guests with classical opera before switching seamlessly to Swedish House Mafia. It's the kind of entertainment that we enjoy at a brunch and the impressive talents help to add a buzz of excitement to proceedings. Vanitas has been heralded for its interpretation of traditional Italian food and the Secret Parties' brunch offers guests a selection of expertly crafted dishes that are executed with finesse and plated to perfection. Brunch consists of a fourcourse sharing menu with all dishes brought to the table and shared family-style. We begin with a simple cheese plate and a delightful beef carpaccio that offers thin slithers of beef alongside parmesan cheese, rocket and glorious summer black truffle. It's a dish that is on par with the decadence of our surroundings. Sharing appetisers consist of mushroom arinci, a crisp golden fritto misto piled high with calamari, prawns and crunchy vegetables and accompanied by a delightful saffron mayonnaise. Yet it's the simplicity of the insalata di mare that truly captures our attention, as the seafood elements are paired with citrus segments and a lemon dressing, culminating in a dish that is as light as it is fresh. A pass around of risotto carneroli boasts sautĂŠed red prawns and a perfect al dente texture acts as a precursor to the main courses. From the sea we genuinely appreciate the branzino, a pan-seared sea bass fillet served with papa pomodoro. While from the land, we're more than a little enamoured with the tagliata di manzo, a dish of roasted beef tenderloin served alongside porcini mushrooms and summer black truffle. Despite these high calibre choices, it's the pasta that remains the most memorable elements of this particular brunch. Both the cherry tomato and burrata spaghetti alla chitarra and ravioli all' astice
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with green pea cream and vanilla are quickly devoured by our party. The atmosphere at Vanitas is electric by the time the dessert course rolls around and we can't help but indulge in the classic Italian tiramisu and Sicilian cannoli. Enjoyable finales to the culinary excitement of the brunch offering. The Secret Palazzo Versace Brunch runs every Friday from 1pm to 4pm and costs AED 345 (soft beverages) and AED 445 (house beverages). Suppose you feel like making a weekend of it (as we did). In that case, you can upgrade your brunch to a luxury staycation package for AED 1,700 which includes a one night stay in a Standard Room, two Secret Palazzo Versace house brunch passes, plus access to the hotel facilities during the stay and a premium breakfast the following morning. We'd suggest this latter option as a means to really treat yourself! After brunch, you can relax at one of Palazzo Versace Dubai's three swimming pools, including the strictly adults-only East Pool, or retire to your room and take in the spectacular views of the city. Rooms are spacious and elegant, clocking in at a generous 50sqm and are designed
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with comfort and convenience in mind. Luxuriate on a king bed dressed in linen and upholstery that features exclusive patterns and decor fashioned by Versace, or relax in the deep tub of the marble-clad bathroom and admire the Italian artistry in the mosaics. The expansive property is reminiscent of a 16th century Italian Palace and has been designed as a Neoclassical masterpiece, featuring subtle traces of Arabian architecture. The hotel is truly symbolic of the Versace lifestyle and when it comes to facilities and recreation, there is so much to explore amongst the manicured gardens. Admittedly we chose to enjoy a leisurely lie-in followed by a lazy breakfast and then some much-needed pool time. For the more adventurous there's the 1000sqm spa, fitness centre and nine restaurants to select from. No matter how you choose to spend your time, there's a sense of grandeur and special occasion to a stay at Palazzo Versace Dubai. The benefits of the luxury staycation brunch upgrade are apparent, we mean, who wouldn't want to revel that little bit longer and spend a weekend in true Versace style. ✤
GO: VISIT WWW.SECRET-PARTIES.COM AND WWW.PALAZZOVERSACE.AE FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine
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• HOME STYLE
HOW TO INCREASE THE ELEGANCE OF YOUR HOME Chattels & More and KARE’s Interior Designer Madeleine Lätti shares her top home styling tips. PUT THE CLUTTER AWAY AND CELEBRATE LARGER STORAGE PIECES: The least elegant aspect of a home is the clutter. Whether or not you believe the clutter is organised, to newcomers into your home, this represents a tiring atmosphere. Unfortunately, it is very easy for clutter to gather on a particular console or corner shelving unit of the house. Therefore, it is important to take a step back and re-evaluate whether these items need to be on display. A great way to begin adding elegance to your home is by purchasing a storage décor piece that has a beautiful exterior yet has enough storage and cabinet doors to hide the clutter. This way, you can minimise the visual distractions and appreciate your new décor piece and carefully chosen statement sculptures and accessories. By assigning a new hidden spot for your clutter, you can begin to celebrate the particular décor pieces that you are proud of. ADD UNIQUE PIECES WITH INTRICATE TEXTURES, PATTERNS, AND SHAPES: When wanting to add sophistication to your home, it may be worth saving to purchase truly unique pieces. This method of decorating your home will be worth it in the long term because it will ensure that you are satisfied with the grace that your home exudes. It may be difficult when starting to explore which items you will patiently wait to splurge on. The initial gut feeling towards a specific décor item is worth keeping. Once you have found a piece to fawn over, you can begin to investigate the different characteristics of this piece. A unique piece is not limited to large scale items; an item as unexpected as a cushion can transform the entire living area based on the intricate details that make it different. The texture, pattern, and shape of the piece are what drew you towards it in the first place. Therefore, this piece would bring that sense of style to your home in the same way you felt when you first saw it. Focusing on fewer décor pieces that stand out to you will bring a sense of elegance to your home that cannot be achieved through hundreds of mediocre pieces that don’t feel truly special to you. However, be cautious when purchasing new items and make sure to examine how this new décor will fit in your existing space. Will it clash with other unique pieces you have gathered over the years, or will it add an eyecatching moment to a dull corner of your home? 80
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HOME STYLE •
WARM LIGHTING AT DIFFERENT HEIGHTS: Lighting is a tool that can help you achieve any design direction or style in your home. The way in which you use light and the type of lighting used individually affects the outcome of your home’s atmosphere. Therefore, it is vital to make a plan of which type of lighting is needed in order to attain the elegance you are going for. There is a standard set of lighting pieces that are known as the “quick buy” items as lighting can often be underestimated when beginning to settle into your new home. This is why, often, lighting is the first item replaced when trying to add grace to your space. Purchasing lighting that brings elegance to your home does not necessarily need to break the bank. It is possible to transform your existing lighting by replacing an old shade, looking at second-hand pieces online, or even swapping out the bulb to get that warm lighting your home has been lacking! When purchasing new lighting, a chandelier is always successful at adding a bold vision in your home, whether it is a modern
When selecting wall-coverings and paints for your walls, make sure to pay attention to the existing hard finishes and fabrics present in your home. For example, if there is a lot of dark wood in your space, avoid selecting a dark wood wallpaper as most often you end up with a slightly off-colour that clashes the entire space. In situations like this, it is safe and successful to go towards a more muted linear pattern in a colour that flatters the existing wood, such as burgundy. On the other hand, if you have a lot of light-coloured stone finishes in your home and want to add a touch of elegance to the space, you can use muted pastel green and taupe wall-coverings and paints to create a delicate statement wall as a backdrop to a more rugged dining table. Understated hues in paint or wall-covering colours add instant elegance to any home and pair exceedingly well with flowing drapery.
or classical style, a chandelier stands out and brings grace to a room filled with minimal or standard furniture. It is important to have lighting present at all heights of your home. Lighting at different heights brings a visual interest point when overlooking the space; therefore table, floor, wall, and ceiling lamps are all vital aspects to consider when searching for new pieces. Elegance can be represented in all different design directions; however, focusing on warm lighting is always vital when trying to achieve elegance in any design.
Drapery and window treatments in general can be overlooked when designing your home. Conversely, they are an essential aspect of achieving the design direction and elegance you want to depict. It is easy to select a cheap drapery that solves the issue of blocking the sunlight out, but these items may end up being the only issue stopping your home from representing grace and elegance. Flimsy materials can leave your windows looking messy and unkempt. Materials that are well known to achieve sophistication are natural silk, linen, and cotton. These materials flow beautifully and effortlessly add a refined classiness to the walls and windows. Luckily it is quite inexpensive to find these materials when selecting drapery but it is important to explore different ways in which the curtains can be hung to select your favourite style that you love and they will, in turn, bring elegance to your existing space. There are other window treatments available such as roller blinds, bamboo shades, or even wooden shutters. These are all alternative means to window treatment that can still add elegance to your home as long as you prioritise quality and your existing space. ✤
PAINT IN THE RIGHT TONES: When people think of elegance, they might automatically think of floral-patterned wall-coverings against walls but in the modern-day, elegance can range in all different types of wallcoverings and paints.
SELECTING THE RIGHT DRAPERY:
GO: VISIT WWW.KARE.AE FOR MORE INFORMATION OR SHOP AT ONE OF THE KARE OR CHATTELS & MORE STORES ACROSS THE REGION.
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CITY INSIDER
Kifah Bin Hussein General Manager, Andaz Dubai The Palm Tell us more about your day-to-day role and what keeps it challenging and exciting? Our hotel’s operation runs 24/7, therefore, I do my best to balance work and life duties. I am an early riser and what helps me to be at my best is meditation and mindfulness activities to help maintain positive energy. As soon as I get to my office, I confirm my appointments for the day with my PA and then get on with the best part of my day; the daily tours of the hotel to physically check the various areas of operation and to meet and greet my team. Human connections are the most important part of our industry and I enjoy them the most. I also make the time to meet some of our guests, especially the long-staying guests, this helps me keep my fingers on the pulse and check our guests level of satisfaction, and through their direct feedback I can identify areas of improvement. I intentionally benchmark the quality and consistency 82
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of our products and services via a couple of checkpoints, and that starts with my daily coffee and occasionally trying some of our signature dishes. In general, I do not skip my lunch at our employee restaurant unless I have a business meeting with lunch and this is again another opportunity to meet some of my team and ensure our F&B offering and quality for them is not less than what we offer to our guests. In the early evening I do my workout at least five times a week, and get myself ready for the evening tour to inspect the operation, meet the evening team and get ready to go home unless I have some evening entertainment for any of my guests or business partners. We all know that hotel business is not only a career; it is a lifestyle! What are some of your favourite cultural hotspots in Dubai and why? I enjoy learning more about the new things in Dubai and keeping myself up-to-date, but the activity that I
enjoy most is taking the abra to cross the Creek from Deira to Bur Dubai. There I traditionally have my favourite oversized Dosa followed by a halfday tour of the area, in particular, Al Bastakiya and old Bur Dubai. I enjoy the real-time portrayals of the daily life of people in this part of the city, the sound of the abra crossing the Creek, the smell of spices in the souq, and the art exhibitions and cafes along that area. Please share with us some of your professional goals for the rest of the year. Our plan for the remainder of 2020 is to make sure we maintain our efforts to increase the awareness of the Andaz brand and to distinguish our hotel from other hotels by offering unique experiences to guests. Our focus and commitment to care for our guests and employee’s wellbeing and to be their best will still be our top priority and goal.
SERATA AL FORMAGGIO AT BICE Enjoy a wide range of perfectly curated cheese and cold cuts with free flow of selected house beverage. Allow us to serve you a selection of specialty platters while you pick a drink from the roaming beverage trolley. Starting 3 September every Thursday from 19:00 to 21:00 AED 185 per person
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers +971 2 811 5666 | JADrestaurants@jumeirah.com Price is in UAE Dirham and is inclusive of all applicable service charges and VAT
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