Dubai Insider - 2019

DUBAI

INSIDER

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

2019

LAMB ANTRIKOT

Doors Freestyle Grill is an exceptional steakhouse restaurant located at Al Seef alongside the historic Dubai Creek. With a welcoming and open front entrance terrace overlooking the waterside, the blend of urban sensuality and luxurious, traditional classic food and drinks provide an exquisite dining experience for residents and visitors to Dubai alike. Inspired by the world’s finest gastronomies, our internationally acclaimed Chef Kemal Ceylan has created a Turkish fusion menu offering: handcrafted mocktails; globally sourced finest quality beef; seafood; and the widest selection of lamb cuts.

Our hospitality is second to none with dishes prepared and served at your table in a truly magnificent theatrical style, just at the right pace between courses. Offering Versace and Bentley inspired designer style dining and breathtaking al fresco on the ground floor and rooftop where shisha is also enjoyed for after dinner relaxation with the finest coffee and fresh fruit fermented tea.

Welcome to Dubai’s Finest Culinary Theatre!

STEAMED SEABASS

For reservations, CALL +971 50 700 0375 @doors.dubai @doors.dubai

@doors.dubai @doors_dubai

www.doorsdubai.com

EDEN GARDEN

TIKI COOLER

AL MAJLIS BY DOORS

Enviable beachfront setting.

Breathtaking interiors.

Unmatched levels of service.

For more information or to book your stay call +971 4 777 2222 or visit mandarinoriental.com/dubai

EDITORIAL Editorial Director John Thatcher Managing Editor Faye Bartle Contributing Editor Michelle Wranik-Hicks Editorial Assistant Julianne Tolentino ART Art Director Kerri Bennett Senior Designer Hiral Kapadia COMMERCIAL Managing Director Victoria Thatcher Group Commercial Director David Wade Commercial Director Rawan Chehab Senior Advertisng Manager Mia Cachero PRODUCTION Production Manager Muthu Kumar Cover image Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Inspired by

WELCOME TO DUBAI

H

ome to a host of record-breaking attractions set between the golden coast and the desert dunes, it’s easy to understand why Dubai is one of the most popular destinations on the planet (it’s the fourth most visited city in the world, according to Mastercard’s Global Destination Cities Index). In this guide, we take you on a journey of discovery, so you can plan your very own Arabian adventure...

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IT’S NEWS TO ME

SHOPPING

We spotlight the latest, must-see attractions in the emirate and share some handy tips for acclimatising

11 HOTELS

There’s no shortage of world-class hotels in Dubai, from boutique boltholes, to sky-skimming towers and palatial beach resorts

26 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Dubai Insider.

Tel: 00971 4 364 2876 Fax: 00971 4 369 7494

RESTAURANTS

Take an epicurean journey through the city’s global dining scene, from authentic local eats to lavish restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs

Get set to shop up a storm, from the atmospheric souks to the gigantic malls brimming with luxury retail, and labels-for-less outlet villages

42 CULTURE

Stroll through Dubai’s heritage neighbourhoods, soak up contemporary art, or time your visit to coincide with the city’s exciting cultural festivals

47 ACTIVITIES

Whether you hanker for waterpark fun or a thrilling sky dive over Palm Jumeirah, an animal safari or a desert drive, Dubai has it all 5 Welcome

One Destination

ENDLESS FUN

Enjoy an ideal staycation for the entire family and enjoy a world of luxury and comfort at any of our two beachfront hotels, JA Palm Tree Court or JA Beach Hotel conveniently located only 15 minutes away from Dubai. Relax by one of the 4 pools and on the 800m private beach or experience the thrill of over 30 exciting activities such as horse riding, golf, water sports and many more.

For bookings or more information, please call +971 4 814 5800 or email reservations.ptc@jaresorts.com

IT’S NEWS TO ME Your go-to list of the latest visitor experiences

HATTA WADI HUB

Home to rugged landscapes just 90 minutes from the city, Hatta is a favourite weekend escape among Dubaians – even more so now that a 10-year development plan is transforming the mountainous region into a top eco-tourism and adventure destination. The activation of Hatta Wadi Hub (visithatta.com) is already well underway. There, you can explore the landscape on a mountain bike, get your thrills and spills in the water jump park, and go kayaking in Hatta Dam. Stay overnight in a mountain lodge or a kitsch vintage trailer (pictured above).

AL SEEF

Visitors are drawn to Dubai Creek for a glimpse of yesteryear while wandering through the atmospheric souks and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.

Now, there’s another 1.8 kilometres of creek waterfront to explore at Al Seef, a restoration of the south bank (Bur Dubai).

See the dhows sailing by and duck inside the charming heritage-style buildings to discover the independent boutiques,

restaurants and cafés. There’s a handful of chic boutique hotels offering a place to rest your head.

JAMEEL ARTS CENTRE

Already making waves as the country’s first non-profit, non-government owned museum for contemporary art, the newest, visually striking cultural destination on the Jaddaf Waterfront was designed by London-based Serie Architects to resemble Sha’abi, a type of housing common in the UAE during the 70s and 80s. The inaugural group exhibition Crude, curated by Murtaza Vali, shines a light on the complex theme of oil.

BLUEWATERS ISLAND

The site of the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai (currently under construction), Bluewaters Island is a man-made oasis off the coast of Dubai Marina. It’s home to a trio of non-gaming resorts – Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, The Residences at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai (serviced apartments)

and Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai – each of which have plenty to offer.

Dine at Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, be pampered at Qua Spa, and chill at private beach club Cove Beach. For entertainment, check out the line-up at The Rotunda Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, a 500-seat venue that hosts diverse acts.

THE POINTE

This Dhs800 million dining and leisure destination on the Palm Jumeirah waterfront brings over 70 restaurants to the scene – a selection of which you can’t find anywhere else. Head to Rue Royale by two Michelin star chef Mathieu Viannay for bold and creative French cuisine; Ena for authentic Greek food with a modern twist; and Amira’s Deli for an inviting helping of European café culture – the list goes on! While eateries comprise a whopping 70 percent of what’s on offer, there’s also a smattering of shops and attractions to explore. Soon, one of the world’s largest choreographed fountain shows will join the party here.

7 Hello Dubai

ON ARRIVAL

Dubai International Airport (DXB) The city’s main airport is one of the busiest hubs in the world, connecting more than 240 destinations across six continents on more than 100 airlines.

Its facilities include Concourse A – the world’s first and largest purposebuilt A380 facility (and one of the three Concourses used exclusively by Emirates airline).

Dubai World Central (DWC) Located in Jebel Ali, the city’s new airport is home to a total of 10 passenger carriers operating an average of 21 weekly flights to more than six international destinations.

To book a flight, call dnata Travel on +971 4 316 6666 or visit dnatatravel.com Want a fast-track arrival experience?

Book the excellent Marhaba service (marhabaservices.com) for a hasslefree welcome and speedy transfer from touchdown to curbside taxi.

GETTING AROUND

Previous page: Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort Above: The Pointe Below: Bluewaters Island

Dubai Metro: The Red and Green lines zip between key locations across the city. The Red Line shuttles from Rashidiya station to UAE Exchange station in Jebel Ali. The Green Line runs from the Etisalat station in Al Twar to Dubai Old Souk in the Al Khor region.

You can transfer between the two lines at Union station or BurJuman station.

Dubai Tram: Linking Dubai Metro and the Palm Monorail, this handy service runs along Al Sufouh Road and Jumeirah Beach Road. Gold Class ticket holders get access to private cabins with wide leather seats and panoramic views.

Taxi and car: Available to hail from the street, or by calling +971 4 208 0808, Dubai’s official taxi service is an affordable way to get around. If you prefer to hire a car, you’ll find booking desks at malls, airports and hotels.

NEED TO KNOW:

Weekends in Dubai are Friday and Saturday. Show respect for the local (Islamic) culture by covering up shoulders, décolletage and legs (to the knee) when entering public spaces and save the bikini for the beach or pool.

Feel free to fall in love with the city but do avoid public displays of affection – it’s simply not the done thing.

8 Hello Dubai

Whatever your vision of the perfect vacation – be it a fun family beach holiday, honeymoon romance or just relaxing in beachfront exclusivity Å&#x; $QDQWDUD 7KH 3DOP 'XEDL 5HVRUW RijHUV D XQLTXHO\ OX[XULRXV HVFape, inspired by Thai exoticism and the heartbeat of Dubai.

Unwind in an enchanting Beach Pool Villa, with your very own private LQıQLW\ SRRO 6RDN XS WUDQTXLO $UDELDQ *XOI YLHZV IURP \RXU 2YHr Water 9LOOD 6WHS VWUDLJKW IURP \RXU URRP LQWR WKH FU\VWDO FOHDU ZDWHrs of our VTXDUH PHWUH ODJRRQ SRROV &XOLQDU\ MRXUQH\V H[FLWH ZLWK a PHODQJH RI PRXWKZDWHULQJ IJDYRXUV 7KH SUHVWLJLRXV VDQFWXDU\ RI $QDQWDUD 6SD UHMXYHQDWHV DQG UHQHZV IURP D UDQJH RI LQVSLUDWLRnal WUHDWPHQWV WR LQGXOJHQW ULWXDOV LQ WKH 7XUNLVK +DPPDP

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI RESORT P.O. BOX 71607, EAST CRESCENT, PALM JUMEIRAH, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES T +971 4 567 8888 E resdubaipalm@anantara.com

ENJOY EXPANSIVE SPACES, INDULGENT LUXURY AND COZY COMFORT AT THE MEYDAN, DUBAI The destination experience at The Meydan Hotel is complemented by seven food and beverage outlets ranging from casual to fine dining; extensive recreational and leisure facilities crowned with a rooftop infinity pool.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates +971 4 381 3333 info@meydanhotels.com themeydanhotel.com /meydanhotel

/meydanhotel

/themeydanhotel_dxb

HOTELS

PILLOW TALK

Beachfront resorts, boutique boltholes and urban hideaways – enjoy a ‘spoil me rotten’ stay at these top hotels

11 Hotels

F

rom the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab to the sleek Armani Hotel Dubai inside Burj Khalifa and the glamorous Arabian-themed desert resorts that appear like mirages amid the dunes, choosing where to stay in Dubai is a hotel hopper's dream. The number of hotel rooms in the emirate is set to reach 132,000 by the end of 2019, according to Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Dubai Tourism, with a number of grand new openings attracting attention. Chief among them is Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, offering all the signature hospitality of this Las Vegas favourite, minus the gaming. It’s located on Bluewaters Island, which is just off the coast from Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and also home to the under-construction Ain Dubai observation wheel. It comprises a trio of resorts: Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai is the place to lap up the rays at Cove Beach, dine at Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen and unwind at Qua Spa; The Residences at Caesars Palace

Bluewaters Dubai has apartments ideal for longer stays; and Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai is spot on for families.

Edging along the coastline to Palm Jumeirah, W Dubai – The Palm has the cool factor, with its hip and happening WET® deck and SoBe rooftop drawing the social set. The glamorous AWAY® Spa, and top chef restaurants Akira Back and Torno Subito by Massimo Bottura further add to the A-list style treatment.

Also gracing the palm frond – just next door, in fact – is Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai, a neoclassical ode to the 18th-century palaces of Europe.

With a private beach and Versailles-style gardens, you’ll feel like a thoroughly royal guest here. We say unwind with a massage at Cinq Mondes spa before sitting down to a delectable dinner at miX

by Alain Ducasse.

If staying in one of the emirate’s long-established hospitality icons is an itch you need to scratch then look no further than the poster child for luxury hospitality, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

The world’s only so-called sevenOpening page: Al Seef Hotel by Jumeirah This page, clockwise from top left: W Dubai - The Palm; Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai; Burj Al Arab; Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai

“You’ll feel like a thoroughly royal guest here" 12 Hotels

EXPERIENCE ARABIAN NIGHTS AT AL HADHEERAH Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa presents Al Hadheerah, its spectacular desert entertainment and authentic food. Explore the sights, sounds and tastes of Arabia at an authentic desert venue amidst the rolling dunes.

Feast under the stars, and enjoy a night of entertainment, live music, belly dancing, traditional instruments and exclusively on Thursday & Fridays a ďŹ reworks display will light the sky.

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA Dubai,United Arab Emirates T:+971 4 809 6194, bas.restaurants@meydanhotels.com alhadheerah.com alhadheerah

alhadheerah

alhadheerah

Clockwise from top: Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort; Dukes Dubai; JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

star hotel, where Federer and Agassi famously staged a rally on the helipad, its reputation for ultra-discrete service continues to attract the rich and famous to its extravagant (but easy to become accustomed to) all-suite setting.

Heading downtown, and occupying an enviable location at the heart of the world’s tallest building, is the understated yet elegant Armani Hotel Dubai – one of only two Armani hotels in the world.

The renowned Italian designer has put his personal stamp on every inch of the property, from the use of Armani Casa linens and homewares to the impeccably stylish collection of restaurants.

Another fashionable property on the scene, Palazzo Versace Dubai brings a touch of 16th-century palatial decadence to the Culture Village district on the banks of Dubai Creek. A neoclassical14 Hotels

meets-Arabian styled resort, the artistic direction of Donatella Versace is evident throughout, and captured perfectly in the two-bedroom duplex Imperial Suites.

Follow in the footsteps of supermodel Bella Hadid and Oscar-winning actress Alicia Vikander by heading to Bulgari Resort Dubai – the fifth international property for the design legend. With the added attraction of its own private mini man-made island location off the Jumeirah coastline (Jumeira Bay Island), a swanky line-up of high-end eateries, and the world’s first Bulgari Marina and Yacht Club, it has quickly become a favourite among discerning travellers.

Also high-up on the list of local record breakers, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai makes the most of its world’s tallest fivestar hotel status, with 72 floors dedicated to luxury, and guestrooms boasting

some of the best views of the city skyline.

Splurge on a night in the top-floor splitlevel penthouse with its mesmerising floor-to-ceiling window views.

If its sun, sea and sand you’re looking for, Dubai more than delivers on its beachfront game, and the luxury lifestyle is a given on Palm Jumeirah. Further to the newbies mentioned earlier, we rate the ever-popular Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, which has an advantage on the competition for featuring the UAE’s only over-water villas. When you’re ready to explore, you can venture across to the marina onboard one of the resort's traditional longtail Thai boats.

Also situated on the island’s crescent, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is the physical epitome of this legendary hotel brand, nestled in a super exclusive Dubai setting. It’s also a dining hotspot thanks to the resident three Michelinstarred talent of Heinz Beck at his fine dining restaurant Social.

There are more hotels on the trunk of the man-made wonder, such as Dukes Dubai. The sister hotel to Dukes London in Mayfair has plenty of British charm.

And with a lazy river, private beach and Dukesy Kids Club – not to mention a clutch of excellent places to eat, including Khyber, West 14th and Great British Restaurant – it’s a win-win for families.

A little further along, another outstanding family-friendly hotel is

This page, from top to bottom: Fairmont The Palm; JA Ocean View Hotel; Jumeirah Beach Hotel Opposite: Jumeirah Al Naseem

16 Hotels

Fairmont The Palm. It's easy to unwind while staying here, with the highly-rated Falcon Kids’ Club for little ones, the award-winning Willow Stream Spa for parents, and the fabulous Little Miss India restaurant (decked out in contemporary colonial décor) providing fun for all. We recommend opting for an upgraded Fairmont Gold room, which comes complete with executive lounge access, plus a host of other benefits. In addition, there’s the glamorous FIVE Palm Jumeirah, with its innovative architecture, Ottoman-inspired spa and picturesque rooftop haunt, The Penthouse.

Moving back to the mainland, Dubai Marina’s swathe of luxury hotels includes anchor properties such as Grosvenor House, a stalwart of the Dubai scene and an ever-popular restaurant hub with the likes of Rhodes W1 and Toro Toro favourites among the city’s social set.

There’s a cluster of five-star hotels at JBR, including Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach, where you can head out onto your private balcony to gaze at the Arabian Gulf. At Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, you can revel in the luxury of sleek marble bathrooms, a plush spa, sparkling swimming pools and 10 top dining spots.

Also fronting the lively plaza is JA Ocean View Hotel, which lives up to its name, with 342 sea-facing rooms and suites across 25 floors. The hotel is also home to Girders, one of the neighbourhoods’ favourite haunts for British-style grub and live sports.

Near Sheikh Zayed Road is the all-suite Two Seasons Hotel & Apartments, which is ideal for longer stays. The Grand Suite Sea View has views of Palm Jumeirah, two bedrooms to spread out in, a cosy living room, and kitchenette for a happy, holiday home vibe.

Further along the coastline is another enduring favourite, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which has recently undergone a major refurbishment that has given the property a whole new energy. The hotel’s glorious beachfront location combined with its ample dining options make it a coveted choice for families, with the neighbouring Wild Wadi Waterpark bringing the fun factor in spades.

Just next door, Jumeirah Al Naseem delivers laidback luxury with décor

“Jumeirah Al Naseem delivers laidback luxury"

17 Hotels

inspired by Dubai’s pearl diving history.

Families also gravitate here to see the turtle lagoon, where sick and injured sea turtles are nursed back to health – join the feeding time at 11am on Wednesdays to learn more.

Having bagged itself a coveted spot along Jumeirah Beach, the new Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai places you just steps away from the seafront and just a short drive away from Downtown Dubai (in fact, it’s now the closest beachfront resort). This Jeffrey Wilkes designed property has a California-style aesthetic – choose from a city or beach view (most guestrooms have a private balcony). There are six restaurants and lounges to discover, including the signature Warayakiyastyle Japanese restaurant.

Zip further along the coast to Pearl Jumeira and you’ll find another H2Ocentric option, the exclusive Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai. The Dubai incarnation of the Miami-meetsMediterranean hotspot, complete with signature all white décor, comes with calming views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline, with stunning sunsets the cherry on top.

At the opposite end of town is the peaceful portion of coastline at Jebel Ali, where JA The Resort, Jebel Ali Beach, Dubai provides blissful respite. Home to JA Beach Hotel and JA Palm Tree Court (with JA Lake View Hotel opening in September 2019), the resort is set within 128 acres and offers a variety of room types, from dedicated family hideaways to luxurious suites. There’s never a dull moment thanks to the 800-metre private beach, four landscaped swimming pools, over 16 restaurants and bars and an impressive line-up of leisure activities, 18 Hotels

This page, above: JA The Resort, Jebel Ali Beach, Dubai Below: Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection Hotels Overleaf: Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai

“Rooms feature indigenous accents and views of Dubai Water Canal" giving you plenty of opportunity to make memories. Keen golfers can practise their swing at the 9-hole par 35 course, and brush up on their technique thanks to the on-site Leadbetter Golf Academy.

For more thrills and spills, Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection, offers the ultimate experiential stay due to its unique location within Dubai Parks and Resorts’ borders. Once you’ve had your fill of fun at Legoland Dubai, Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and Legoland Waterpark, this Polynesian inspired resort tempts you with a lazy river, heated pools, a rooftop lounge and a laidback atmosphere.

If shopping is on your agenda, you’ll want to stay as close as possible to the 20 Hotels

retail action, and there are a number of hotels within walking distance to the biggest and best retail emporiums. Just around the corner from The Dubai Mall (home to more than 1,300 stores and family-friendly dining and entertainment spots galore), is the boutique Vida Downtown, located on Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. The property will lure you in with its contemporary charm, posh French dining at La Serre and the delightfully kitsch Vida Food Truck.

Also in the neighbourhood, Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai, offers a sense of place with its rooms featuring indigenous accents and views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Water Canal.

Dine at award-winning restaurants, including Morimoto Dubai and Bleu

Blanc by David Myers, and find a sense of calm at Six Senses Spa. Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is directly connected to the mall it takes its name from, so you won’t need to lug all those bags of designer goodies very far. Plus, if one-of-a-kind accommodation floats your boat, then the luxuriously cosy ski chalet styled rooms overlooking the indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai, will do nicely.

A boutique stay with shopping opportunities on the doorstep also comes courtesy of the super stylish La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK, Dubai, Autograph Collection.

Situated at the heart of City Walk, one of Dubai’s most chi-chi urban lifestyle destinations, this low-rise property is a magnet for visiting fashionistas and influencers alike.

At the other end of town, with handy access to Dubai Metro, is Mövenpick Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai. The

YOUR

PALACE AWAITS Feel like royalty at the newly refurbished Jumeirah Al Qasr. We’ve primped, polished, and are ready to welcome you.

jumeirah.com/alqasr

five-star property is a few minutes’ walk to another one of the city’s colossal shopping centres, Ibn Battuta Mall, inspired by the 14th-century travels of the Arab explorer. Post credit card splurge, you can put your feet up at the rooftop pool, or even better, get them massaged as part of an indulgent pampering treatment at Safar Spa. Visitors looking to soak up a little more history and get to the root of the city’s cultural origins should cross the Garhoud Bridge to the Deira side of town and the banks of Dubai Creek, its historic heartland. Nestled beyond the greens and berths of Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the tranquil Park Hyatt Dubai is a gem. Soothing creek views are guaranteed from your balcony or terrace while eight themed Spa Rooms welcome you with a bespoke, full-on spa experience (failing that, the hotel’s Amara Spa with its private courtyards and garden is simply sensational).

Dubai’s first five-star hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, remains a firm favourite among local residents and returning visitors alike and its dining options are a major draw. Indeed, any visit this side of the creek should include dinner at modern Emirati culinary exponent, Aseelah, or the ever-popular Fish Market.

Dive deeper into the neighbourhood streets and you’ll find JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, another veteran of the Deira scene and home to the awardwinning JW's Steakhouse. It’s also a great starting point from which 22 Hotels

to explore a side of the city that not everyone gets to see once ensconced in the comfort of their beachfront sun lounger. A hip, contemporary hotel shaking up the south bank of Dubai Creek, Zabeel House by Jumeirah is a modern structure set amid the new creekside precinct Al Seef. With a rooftop pool to watch dhows and abras cruise past and quirky décor, it’s just next door to its pocket-sized sibling property, Zabeel House MINI

by Jumeirah, a three-star hotel that’s every inch the millennial hipster haven, with bikes for hire, colourful art and beanbags aplenty.

Also on the creek, Al Seef Hotel

by Jumeirah conjures up more of a heritage ambiance, with rustic guestrooms and suites tucked into 22 Arabian-style buildings, complete with traditional barjeel wind towers. In earthy hues, with natural textiles and gypsum walls, the décor is inspired by the Dubai of yesteryear, with antique light switches, old fashioned radios, and one-of-a-kind amenities, like exfoliating soap made from sand gathered from each of the UAE’s seven emirates.

Equestrian activity is the hook at Meliá Desert Palm Dubai, a polo community sited resort set in 160 acres of greenery and sand with just 38 rooms, suites and villas perfecting the ideal of the quintessential hideaway. There’s more equine action at The Meydan Hotel, which overlooks Dubai’s spectacular racecourse. As well as getting a thrilling view of racing

“The cosy ski chalet styled rooms overlook the indoor slope"

23 Hotels

A TOUCH OF ARABIA Explore Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, a Marriott luxury lifestyle hotel located right in the heart of the world-famous Jumeirah Beach. An “exactly like nothing else� experience offers the best of both worlds for business and leisure travelers. The resort features 14 themed restaurants and bars, meeting venues and extensive recreation facilities with an immaculate private beach and spa.

Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection Al Falea Street, Jumeirah Beach | Dubai, UAE | T. +971 4 399 5000 | F. +971 4 399 4547 www.marriott.com/dxbhg

Previous page: Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates Above: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai Below: Zabeel House MINI

by Jumeirah

thoroughbreds, the hotel can arrange stable tours that'll give you a glimpse into the jockeys’ room, saddling paddock and parade ring. The hotel also has a fabulous array of restaurants.

If you dream of staying deep in the desert, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai is sure to capture your imagination. Set amid the shifting sand dunes of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, a brief sojourn within the luxurious confines of this all-suite oasis will imbue a deep sense of bliss that lingers long after you leave.

The only downside? You will have to share this slice of paradise with passing Arabian oryx, wheeling falcons overhead and the occasional wandering camel.

Another dearly loved desert escape is Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, which consistently charms guests with its Arabian Nights style architecture, views of the undulating dunes and al fresco dinners served beneath starlit skies. Nature walks, falconry and infinity pools, not to mention the sublime Satori Spa, will make it a struggle to leave this desert diamond – that much is guaranteed.

25 Hotels

RESTAURANTS

CITY BITES From casual beachside cafĂŠs to fine dining favourites, we uncover the top tables in town

26 Restaurants

F

rom gold-dusted desserts served in a swanky setting to food trucks worth queuing for, Dubai’s food scene gets even more delicious each year, with new venues opening at a rapid rate. From the five-star restaurants that are raising the bar to the beachside neighbourhoods that are shining a light on homegrown concepts and even the malls, which more than pull their weight in the dining stakes – the challenge is knowing where to start.

For waterfront dining and a great view of Atlantis, The Palm, the Dhs800 million The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah – a brand new dining, retail and entertainment destination in one – is sure to impress with more than 70 restaurants, including a clutch that are exclusive to development. We rate Rue Royale, a French fine-dining restaurant by lauded chef Mathieu Viannay as well as the family-friendly Amira’s Deli, but there are plenty more to choose from besides.

There’s a smattering of shops and attractions to explore while one of the world’s largest choreographed fountain shows will join the party here soon.

Another dedicated dining destination that pairs food and great views is Pier 7, which has seven floors (the hint is in the name) of restaurants to pick from, all overlooking the glamorous Dubai Marina.

If fine dining tickles your taste buds, we would encourage you to head to Gate Village at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) where, amid the high-end galleries and auction houses, are some of Dubai’s best restaurants. At Zuma, the ever-outstanding Japanese food is best ordered to share. As it is at the always buzzing La Petite Maison, which utilises produce from local UAE farms in a number of its fabulous creations, all of which are rooted in FrenchMediterranean cooking.

Greek-Mediterranean restaurant GAIA has racked up the plaudits since it opened at the back end of last year, with the chef’s passion for flavour evident in every dish. How about crumbly feta cheese baked and draped in honey to start you off?

For something more casual, BOCA is a bar/restaurant concept that does Mediterranean dishes to share, preferably with a bottle drawn from its very well-stocked cellar.

A meal with a touch of star quality is a sure thing, as you don’t have to look far to find a venue by a top chef. Join the cool set at Akira Back at W Dubai – The Palm, which is the first venue in the Middle East to showcase the prosnowboarder-turned-culinary-master’s blend of modern Japanese and Korean

“You don’t have to look far to find a venue by a top chef”

Opposite: Amira’s Deli, The Pointe This page, from top to bottom: Akira Back; BOCA; La Petite Maison

27 Restaurants

“For serious foodies, the draw card here is the chef’s table”

Above: miX Dubai by Alain Ducasse Below: Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen

28 Restaurants

influences. Arrive in good time for a drink at the floating bar and lap up the stellar views of Palm Jumeirah. At the very same hotel is Torno Subito, Massimo Bottura’s first venue outside of Italy. Here, his expertly crafted dishes will transport you to the Italian Riviera of the 1960s.

Also on the Palm, multi-Michelinstarred chef Alain Ducasse has found a new home at Kempinski Emerald Palace Hotel for his miX Dubai by Alain Ducasse, which sees the culinary maestro show off his signature style of melding classical French with the contemporary, while adding a hint of local flavour. The draw card for serious foodies here, however, is the chef’s table, hidden away and accessed only by private elevator.

If you’re keen to experience Yannick Alléno’s Gallic flair, head to STAY by Yannick Alléno at One&Only The Palm, where opulence is the order of the day, both on the plate and in the restaurant design. On the opposite side of the island’s crescent, Heinz Beck’s mastery of modern gastronomy reigns supreme at Social by Heinz Beck at Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah – we suggest you try the sublime salt-baked sea bass.

For dinner with a side of drama, Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai (its the second global outpost outside of Las Vegas) will transport you straight to the studio set, with signature dishes like lobster risotto and sticky toffee pudding, as featured on the hit show.

Fans of the animated chef can also check out Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen at Atlantis, The Palm, which rates highly for British classics like Beef Wellington with truffle mash.

DREAM LIKE IT’S YOUR FIRST TIME Plan your perfect holiday at the recently refurbished Jumeirah Beach Hotel and enjoy host of new dining experiences, re-imagined guestrooms and facilities.

All UAE Residents and GCC Nationals receive exclusive offers along with complimentary unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark™, Kids Club as well as Jumeirah’s pristine private beach.

jumeirah.com/jumeirahbeachhotel *Terms and conditions apply

Over at City Walk, Michelin-starred British siblings, Chris and Jeff Galvin have given us not one but two venues: Galvin Dubai and Demoiselle by Galvin. The former brings the best of British-meets Mediterranean-Basinflair to the table while the latter bistro has even spawned a stylish food truck offshoot, currently at Business Bay. The Bay is also home to Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s flagship restaurant Morimoto Dubai, which spans the 23rd and 24th floor of the stylish Renaissance Downtown Hotel. Whether you choose oh-toro (fatty tuna belly) sashimi or opt for the coveted ishi yaki A5-grade Japanese wagyu, it’s a culinary thrill from start to finish.

Local talent to check out includes Chef Izu Ani – the force behind some of Dubai’s best-loved restaurants, such as La Petite Maison, La Serre, and The Lighthouse, to name a few. His latest venture, Carine at Emirates Golf Club, specialises in French Mediterranean inspired dishes – think crispy calamari, creamy burrata, citrusy tuna carpaccio, fragrant harissa prawns and tarte 30 Restaurants

flambée – without even a hint of pretention. Be sure to try the homemade plum and apple jam.

Homegrown chef superstars Nick Alvis and Scott Price also have a dedicated following. Their folly by Nick & Scott at Souk Madinat Jumeirah will wow you with its take on modern European cuisine complete with artistic plating.

When the weather’s good, bag a seat on the terrace for a secret garden feel.

When it comes to premier settings, Dubai covers pretty much every angle, with a meal amid the dunes on the wish list for most. For an authentic desert dining experience, an atmospheric meal at Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is the stuff of holiday magic, with diners seated beneath the stars, enjoying traditional Middle Eastern dishes paired with live music and dance performances.

At Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, Al Diwaan will seat you on the veranda for a gourmet feast with breathtaking views of the reserve where Arabian oryx and gazelle roam.

Another must-do for many is a meal

This page above: Chef Masaharu Morimoto at Morimoto Dubai Below: Galvin Dubai Bottom: Al Hadheerah Overleaf: Shimmers

UNWIND

A LUXURIOUS RETREAT IN THE HEART OF DUBAI Book your stay at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel and enjoy a wide variety of exclusive privileges including daily complimentary breakfast, access to the Aviation Club, unlimited entry to Wild Wadi Waterpark ™, shuttle bus services to selected destinations and much more.

jumeirah.com/jumeirahcreeksidehotel *Terms and conditions apply

at Atmosphere, the world’s tallest restaurant on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa. We say opt for the high tea experience in the lounge, which provides the perfect excuse to linger and enjoy the view.

For a front row seat to The Dubai Fountain, you’ll find many venues at The Dubai Mall and neighbouring Souk Al Bahar that deliver the goods. One of the latest on the scene is Zeta at Address Downtown, which blends Californian and Asian influences with a close-up view of all the action.

If you feel like pushing the boat out, the Queen Elizabeth 2 calls (it’s permanently moored at Port Rashid). Book a table at signature restaurant Queens Grill, where chef de cuisine, Rama Samy – a former member of the QE2’s culinary team when the vessel served the British royal family – has introduced a tasting menu that replicates the one from the year the QE2 first sailed in 1969. Its nine courses feature ingredients sourced almost entirely from the UK (think Dover sole and milk-fed lamb).

If you have tickets to Dubai Opera, make a night of it with a meal at The Loft at Dubai Opera, where you can dine on European cuisine while admiring the view of Burj Khalifa – it’s ideal for meeting a date pre-show.

Beachside dining also comes to the fore in Dubai and we implore you to make the most of the eateries dotted along its super stretch of coast. Shimmers at Jumeirah Mina A’ Salam is a firm favourite among those in the know, affording diners a stunning view of Burj Al Arab and a menu of Greek dishes based on the family favourites of chef Yiannis Katsikas.

Club Vista Mare, on Palm Jumeirah, occupies a prime swathe of beachfront with fabulous views of the city. It has a number of venues to pick from, including Peruvian restaurant Aji. Another go-to on the palm is Mediterranean restaurant 32 Restaurants

The Beach House at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. Its piled high seafood platter is sure to sink any appetite.

With Indians and Pakistanis the two largest expatriate nationalities in the emirate, the city is flush with cheap and cheerful eateries serving home-style delicacies, from the institution that is Ravi Restaurant in Satwa, to Calicut Paragon in Karama for perhaps the best Keralan seafood specialities you’ve ever tasted. On the upper end of the culinary barometer, there’s more flavourful North Indian cuisine at Khyber at Dukes Dubai, which conjures up the majesty of the Mughal era with a glorious Dubai Marina panorama to boot.

Elsewhere, a special mention must go to the kitsch and totally Instagrammable Little Miss India at Fairmont The Palm.

With a colourfully painted Indian truck flanking the entrance, eclectic décor and an open-kitchen with chefs preparing fragrant regional Indian dishes, it’s a feast for all the senses.

Alternatively, for delicious Thai food, Bamboo Kitchen at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection, is a wonderful spot for a casual meal, while the award-winning Tong Thai at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai teams street food with authentic classics.

Steak and seafood are also easy to come by in the emirate and STK at Rixos Premium Dubai on The Walk at JBR offers signature cuts of prime beef with the added bonus of a resident DJ so you can dance away the calories. You’ll need to book well ahead to get a table at NusrEt Steakhouse Dubai at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, where the steaks are seriously impressive and the crowd comes to pay homage to Internet sensation #saltbae. Also unmissable is PRIME Steakhouse at The Meydan Hotel, where the theatrics of tableside flambé, delectable cuts of meat and the elegant setting will delight. Over at Al Seef, Doors Dubai brings the drama with its delicious

“Shimmers is a firm favourite among those in the know�

33 Restaurants

34 Restaurants

Turkish grill meets steakhouse concept.

Ocean-fresh ingredients define the offering at the deceptively rustic Fish Beach Taverna at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, where the beachside setting and design evokes summer in Santorini. Just down the road at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai Jumeirah Beach, The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill goes full on crustacean. And it’s another seafood bonanza at Bluewaters Island where Alici Dubai, the new restaurant by the group behind the award-winning Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, serves up caviar and Amalfi Coast vibes with unfettered water views. Away from the coast, denizens of Emirates Financial Towers clamour for a table at Crab Market, where acclaimed Russian chef Vladimir Mukhin imports Kamchatka crabs to create a truly international flavour.

The vast majority of eateries in Dubai are family-friendly, but if you have younger kids in tow, the following venues are especially well geared towards rambunctious little diners.

You can slurp a monster milkshake at NYC import Black Tap (there are three in Dubai including one at Jumeirah Al Naseem), where indulgent drinks come with everything from cotton candy and popcorn to a whole slice of cake on top.

Aprons & Hammers (at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and La Mer) is a great way to introduce a younger audience to seafood with crab and shrimp served by the bucketful and diners equipped with crackers and hammers for some smashing fun. We also rate Pots, Pans & Boards at The Beach, where Michelin-starred Brit Tom Aikens has created a family-friendly concept based on sharing dishes.

Before we wrap it up, we ought to mention everyone’s favourite weekend meal: brunch. Dubai style, this equals an all-you-can-eat, all-you-can-drink feast involving cuisines from every corner of the globe. There are many to choose from, but one of our faves is the Wanderlust Brunch at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, which has more than 10 live cooking stations and a DJ spinning the tunes.

Opposite: Doors Dubai This page top to bottom: Tong Thai; Bamboo Kitchen

35 Restaurants

R A R E , I N D I G E N O U S , C A P T I V AT I N G Experience the alluring, golden desert landscape, the captivating silence of nature, the free-roaming wildlife in the reserve, all enjoyed from your private suite and pool. Indulge in a luxurious desert adventure with camel treks, horseback riding, falconry, archery, dune drives and more.

HOTELS THAT DEFINE THE DESTINATION FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL 971 4 832 9900 OR VISIT THELUXURYCOLLECTION.COM/ALMAHA

SHOPPING

BOUTIQUE BLISS Flash the cash in the mega malls, check out the homegrown design talent and barter in the souks

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nown as the fashion capital of the Middle East, seasoned shoppers won’t be disappointed by the emirate’s blend of plush malls, designer labels, and homegrown brands. Here, you’re just as likely to invest in a limitededition accessory as a keepsake from the ambient souks.

The most impressive selection of brands under one roof can be found at The Dubai Mall. With over 1,300 stores, including those at high-end haven Fashion Avenue, the mall is a destination in its own right, luring 80 million annual visitors through its doors.

It’s easy to feel a bit lost the first time you visit, so keep an eye out for anchor stores Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette Dubai, which will signal how far around you’ve walked. For haute beauty buys, head to Perfumery & Co, which brings the region’s passion for fragrances to life. There are plenty of ways to break up your spree, from seeing the marvellous marine animals at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to sipping coffee at one of the cafés overlooking The Dubai Fountain (the terrace at Maison Assouline gets the thumbs up from us).

Another power player, Mall of the Emirates, which is a short drive inland from Burj Al Arab, has four floors of shops to browse, anchored by the absolutely fabulous department store 38 Shopping

Harvey Nichols – Dubai. Head to the Fashion Dome for a peek inside the designer boutiques and take advantage of the hands-free shopping, which invites you to drop off your buys at designated points and have them delivered directly to your hotel. It’ll free you up for an invigorating snowboarding session at Ski Dubai.

Along Dubai Creek, Dubai Festival City is the go-to mall for mid-range brands like Banana Republic, COS and the Middle East’s biggest Zara, along with high-end department store, Robinsons. Take time out from browsing its impressive roster of stores for an al fresco coffee break, dhow boat ride or to watch the nightly fire, light and water show.

If you get a thrill from bagging a bargain, we say take the 30-minute taxi ride out of town to Dubai Outlet Mall in Dubailand to snag some previous season high-street style hits for less. If you’re more a fan of Paris Fashion Week than Primark, the Tuscan-inspired The Outlet Village in Jebel Ali is where high-end brands such as Coach, Giuseppe Zanotti and M Missoni await, complete with affordable price tags.

For something on a more manageable scale, check out the city’s suburban mini malls. One of our favourites is Galleria Mall in Jumeirah, which has a small yet perfectly curated collection of boutiques including Zayan The Label

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“Urban hotspot City Walk has a profusion of funky, designer-centric boutiques”

Opening page: Level Shoes, The Dubai Mall Previous pages: Desert Magic, Souk Madinat Jumeirah This page, clockwise from left: Galeries Lafayette, The Dubai Mall; Dubai Festival City Mall; Souk Madinat Jumeirah; Le BHV Marais, City Walk

and S*uce Rocks, for a taste of how the well-heeled locals dress.

Your shopping trips needn’t be confined to indoor malls, however, as the outdoor retail scene is continuing to grow, so you can make the most of the sunshine while splashing the cash.

Urban hotspots include City Walk, across the highway from Downtown Dubai, which has a profusion of funky, designer-centric boutiques like Diane von Furstenberg and Karl Lagerfeld alongside chic department store Le BHV Marais and Level Kids (a fashiony-fun childrenswear store for little ones). Just around the corner, on Al Wasl Road, is the hip BoxPark, at which stands a number of repurposed shipping containers showcasing contemporary fashion, homeware and art. Over at The Beach at JBR you can hit the shops to a backdrop of stunning 40 Shopping

coast. Pick up some new swimmies and duck into The Boutique at The Beach, a funky pop-up store that spotlights upand-coming designers. One-of-a-kind boutiques can also be found at La Mer in Jumeirah, which is home to a cool collection of stores, such as LA Rags and Trina Turk.

Affordable tailoring is a speciality in Dubai, with more places capable of whipping you up a made-to-measure outfit than you can wave a needle and thread at. The traditional go-to area for a cluster of tailors all in one place is Karama, where Dream Girls is a long-standing favourite. The family-run Parmar Tailors is another much-loved tailoring institution, offering custom-made suits from its Bur Dubai and Jumeirah Lakes Towers workshops. If you need someone to come to you, Suited and Booted

offers a handy mobile tailoring service for men and women, with more than 300 fabrics to choose from.

Perhaps one of the most rewarding shopping experiences for travellers, however, is wandering through the labyrinthine souks, which are brimming with the sights, sounds and aromas of a bygone era. Take the abra from Bur Dubai across Dubai Creek to the Deira side where you’ll find the glittering Gold Souk and vibrant Spice Souk.

Simply scoop up some aromatic spices from the overflowing hessian sacks.

For a more polished experience, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, which has been designed in the style of an authentic Arabian marketplace, and explore the lanes lined with barrows and stalls selling jewellery, oud and other keepsakes that’ll serve as a treasured reminder of your trip.

41 Hello Dubai

Above: Dubai Duty Free at Concourse C, DIA Below: Dubai Duty Free at the QE2

DUTY BOUND

Experience the best of the emirate through the eyes of its homegrown success story, Dubai Duty Free SHOP

The thrill of shopping at the airport never loses its shine and Dubai Duty Free, one of the biggest travel retail operators in the world, is an authority when it comes to providing a retail experience to excite even the most seasoned shopper. Offering some 38,000 square metres of retail space at Dubai International Airport and 2,500 square metres at Al Maktoum International, Dubai Duty Free has an impressive list of luxury brands under one roof, at great prices. Whether you have your heart set on a new watch, want to treat yourself to the latest perfume, or find the perfect gift for a loved one, the expertly trained staff are on hand to guide you. Plus, be sure to check out the new store within the chic shopping arcade at the Queen Elizabeth II (QE2), which is docked at Port Rashid.

STAY

There are plenty of hotels to choose from in the emirate, but the Dubai Duty Free owned Jumeirah Creekside

Hotel is a stand-out choice. Set in lush, landscaped grounds overlooking Dubai Creek, the contemporary property is home to the award-winning Akaru spa. What’s more, all guests are invited to use the private beach at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, and receive complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark for an activity-packed holiday to remember.

UNWIND

Join the fun seekers letting off steam at The Irish Village. A little piece of Ireland in Dubai, these popular destinations at Al Garhoud and Riverland Dubai are built to resemble an authentic community setting, with charming features such as the telephone box, carts and barrels and even the lampposts shipped direct from the Emerald Isle. It’s your go-to for traditional Irish fare, live music, and service with a smile. Keep your eyes peeled for the third Irish Village opening at Studio One Hotel in Dubai Studio City in 2019.

EXPERIENCE

Dubai boasts a year-round calendar of activities. Among the premier dates in the diary is Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, which takes place annually in February at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Garhoud, and lures the biggest names in tennis to battle it out for the coveted title. Bookworms can meet leading authors at the 11th Annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (1-9 March 2019) while, later in the year, the citywide shopping event Dubai Summer Surprises (21 June to 3 August 2019) gives rise to lots of fun activations at malls and the airport. There are plenty more events in the pipeline that’ll make you want to plan your next trip to Dubai.

To find out more, visit dubaidutyfree.com 41 Dubai Insider x Dubai Duty Free

CULTURE

SCRATCH THE SURFACE A thriving arts scene, festivals galore and heritage neighbourhoods offer plenty of ways to broaden the mind

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here’s much more to Dubai that fast cars, luxury hotels and cloud-piercing landmarks.

Peel back the shiny sweetie wrapper that is the emirate’s modern façade and you’ll quickly discover a richly layered cultural scene, with music, theatre and dance ventures rubbing shoulders with an impressive collection of art galleries and institutions.

A great starting point for your cultural journey of discovery is Dubai Creek, the beating historic heart of the emirate, and a key factor in Dubai’s success as a trading port. On the Bur Dubai side is Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which offers a glimpse of the traditional way of life in Dubai from the mid 19th century until the 1970s. Wander around the traditional buildings topped with wind towers, which today house a selection of art and culture attractions.

If you’ve only got time to stop at one, make it the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which will boost your cultural IQ through its talks and tours. The 90-minute Emirati Cultural Breakfast Experience offers a coveted chance to taste traditional Emirati food while learning more about the customs and traditions of the UAE – simply ask your local host anything you want to know. The centre also offers tours of Jumeirah Mosque, one of only two mosques in Dubai that are open to non-Muslims.

Also in the area is Dubai Museum, housed in the remains of the 18thcentury Al Fahidi Fort – the oldest existing building in Dubai. Inside, you can view ancient artefacts, dioramas depicting everyday Emirati life through the decades, and a multimedia presentation charting the discovery of oil.

More museums to add to your mustsee list include Jameel Arts Centre on the banks of Jaddaf Waterfront, which is the country’s first non-profit, nongovernment owned museum dedicated to contemporary art.

“Boost your cultural IQ through talks and tours” 43 Culture

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Museum project. For beachside viewing, Jumeirah Beach Residence also boasts a selection of vibrant murals.

Next, get dressed up for an evening of world-class entertainment at La Perle

by Dragone, Dubai’s first in-residence show, which draws on the aquatic, aerial and acrobatic expertise of a troupe of outstanding performers to weave a spellbinding tale based on Dubai’s rise to prominence.

As architecturally impressive as its bulging calendar of events, which range from opera and musicals to children’s theatre, the stunningly designed 2,000seat Dubai Opera is often a sell-out experience. The world’s most popular musical, The Phantom of the Opera, is set to make its Middle East debut here in autumn 2019.

Comedic relief is the order of the day at The Laughter Factory, which imports well-known international acts, while Dubomedy is the preserve of those brave souls of stand-up.

Organised travellers can plan a trip to coincide with one of the many festivals in the annual calendar – many of which take place in spring. The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is usually on in March, bringing an awesome line-up of acclaimed authors to impart their wisdom. Art Dubai also falls around this time. The 2019 edition draws more than 90 galleries from over 40 different countries, providing a coveted chance to engage with the artists.

Photo: Courtesy Alserkal Avenue

To know more about the birth of the UAE, make a beeline for the aesthetically impressive Etihad Museum on Jumeirah Street. Another museum showcasing aspects of Dubai’s warp speed growth is found at the base of Dubai Frame in Zabeel Park.

For your fill of art, Dubai’s oldest enclave, The Majlis Gallery in Bur Dubai, has been a repository of art since 1989. Alternatively, corporate types rub shoulders with art-loving visitors at Dubai International Financial Centre’s tranche of artsy hubs including XVA Gallery and fine-art photography vitrine The Empty Quarter.

In industrial Al Quoz, Alserkal Avenue has emerged as a thriving arts and culture hub that celebrates diversity. Its cool collection of warehouses contain the likes of: Custot Gallery Dubai, which showcases modern and contemporary artists; The Third Line, which represents contemporary Middle Eastern artists; and dedicated photography centre Gulf Photo Plus, which runs regular workshops and events.

The city is no stranger to street art, with new life infused into various thoroughfares thanks to creative initiatives such as Dubai Walls at City Walk – a collaborative platform for 16 renowned international artists. In addition, buildings along 2nd December Street in Satwa host the permanent works of prominent international artists who took part in the Dubai Street

Opening page: Street art at City Walk Previous page: Jameel Arts Centre; Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding These pages, clockwise from top left: Dubai Frame; Art Dubai 2017; La Perle by Dragone; Dubai Opera; The Art Shop at Quoz Arts Fest, Alserkal Avenue

Photo: courtesy Photo Solutions

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SUITE INDULGENCE EXPERIENCE THE EXTRAORDINARY Book for three nights or more and receive 25% off your stay at the world’s most iconic hotel, inclusive of luxurious privileges.

jumeirah.com/suiteindulgence *Terms and conditions apply

ACTIVITIES

FUN-FILLED DAYS From splashing in the waterparks to venturing deep into the desert, Dubai’s big-ticket experiences await

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he number one attraction on everyone’s list, Burj Khalifa will draw you like a magnet to view its irresistibly shiny structure. If you’ve got a head for heights, take the lift to the At the Top observation decks for a bird’s eye view of the skyline. If that’s not enough of a head rush, you can ascend higher still thanks to the At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY experience, which challenges you to step out onto the outdoor terrace of the world’s highest observation deck (it’s 555 metres high). Go at sunset for the best views.

Another high-rise hot ticket experience is the 150-metre-tall Dubai Frame with a glass bridge observation deck that’s definitely not for the fainthearted, but the reward is a bird’s eye view of old and new Dubai. In Jumeirah, Skyview Bar at Burj Al Arab is a grown-ups playground, soaring 200 metres above sea level. Just bear in mind that there’s a minimum spend, and you’ll need to book in advance (for ages 21 and over).

There are plenty more ways to keep your head in the clouds. A popular choice is the 45-minute Seawings Signature Tour that’ll whizz you up and over the skyscraper-laden skyline, between Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa, in a classic seaplane. Or, you can tick off a bucket-list dream by 48 Activities

booking yourself in at Skydive Dubai for a tandem jump over Palm Jumeirah (sign up for the video footage, as a permanent record of your bravery).

For those more comfortable with two feet on the ground, we recommend jumping on a City Sightseeing bus, which operates daily tours of the city across several routes, with hop-on, hop-off opportunities at all the major sights and shopping hotspots. An easy breezy way to see the city from the water is Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority’s new Dubai Ferry service, which links The Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina Mall – two of the most popular retail spots – with a 90-minute scenic journey. (Tickets can be purchased from At the Top, Burj Khalifa).

Those seeking a curated itinerary need look no further than Arabian Adventures, which has a stellar line-up of tours, including its alwayspopular desert safaris that’ll zip you over the dunes in a four-wheel drive to a Bedouin-style camp complete with traditional entertainment. (Check the website for the latest itineraries).

One of the emirate’s most novel draws is indoor ski resort Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates, where snowboarding, skiing and a fun snow park, home to king and gentoo penguins, makes it as fun for adults as it is for kids.

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Opening page: Wild Wadi Waterpark Previous page: Seawings flying over Jumeirah These pages, clockwise from above: Aventura; X Park Jr.; Aquaventure Waterpark, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai; The Green Planet

50 Activities

“Meet exotic animals in the recreated rainforest at The Green Planet” With its perennially sunny weather, it may come as no surprise that waterparks are hugely popular here.

The original splash and soak day out, Wild Wadi Waterpark, has over 30 rides and attractions to get to grips with. From kid-friendly slides and the relaxing lazy river to the terrifying Jumeirah Sceirah (which propels you to speeds of 80 km/h), it’s wet and wild all the way.

On Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, The Palm is home to Aquaventure Waterpark with 17 hectares of attractions, including slides that’ll shoot you though shark-filled lagoons.

Another contender on the scene is Laguna Waterpark at La Mer, which has all manner of hair-raising rides to hurl yourself down, as well as a lazy river and the awesome WaveOz 180 Florider – the first of its kind in the region – where you can tackle the competition-level wave on a body board or stand-up board.

Nature meets playtime with high wire action at Aventura at Mushrif Park, where you can zip-line through a natural ghaf tree forest. At Kite Beach you’ll find XPark Jr., which blends desert and forest influences to create a fun, natural playscape. Kids get to splash in streams, climb trees and hang out in treehouses, as well as explore meandering paths, cascading fountains and the on-site petting zoo.

With a mud kitchen also part of the outdoor fun, don’t forget to pack a change of clothes.

Exotic animals with a penchant for the tropics are found in the recreated rainforest at The Green Planet in City Walk, while Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at The Dubai Mall houses 140 different marine species and (weighing in at 750 kilograms and 51 Activities

“The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride will steer you almost within soaking distance”

Clockwise from above left: The Dubai Fountain, as seen from Palace Downtown; IMG Worlds of Adventure; Bollywood Parks Dubai; Motiongate Dubai

measuring over five metres in length) the terrifying King Croc.

Be sure to keep an entire day free for a trip to Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest multithemed leisure and entertainment destination. With three awesome theme parks (as well as Legoland Waterpark) in one location, you can’t go wrong. Perfect for those with kids aged two to 12, Legoland Dubai has more than 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions as well as 15,000 Lego model structures, including a replica of Burj Khalifa made out of 439,000 Lego blocks. Motiongate Dubai combines three legendary film studios in one park, with a stellar cast of rollercoasters, multi-media rides, interactive labs and shows with a 52 Activities

Hollywood theme. Or, look to the East at Bollywood Parks Dubai, which takes on the movie magic of Hindi cinema.

It’s great at any time of year but, when the heat is on, indoor amusement park IMG Worlds of Adventure is your go-to. Thrillseekers can get their air-conditioned theme park kicks at its four zones: Cartoon Network, Marvel, Lost Valley-Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. It’s an animation superhero love fest with more than 20 rides and attractions, including a first-of-its-kind Hulk 3D ride with 18 IMAX projectors and a bone-chilling Haunted Hotel.

Exhausted by the non-stop action?

End your trip in a more relaxing fashion at Burj Khalifa Lake, where the spectacular micro robot-controlled

jets of The Dubai Fountain shoot giant plumes of water high into the air with displays set to music.

Performances take place at 1pm, 1.30pm and 2pm Saturday to Thursday (and 1.30pm, 2pm, and 2.30pm on Fridays), with evening shows every 30 minutes from 6pm-1pm. You can watch it for free from the promenade, but if you want to edge closer, get a ticket for the The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride, which will steer you almost within soaking distance on an abra.

There’s also a floating boardwalk to stroll along, which is just nine metres from the fountains at its closest point.

In addition, later this year, a new choreographed fountain will be unveiled at Palm Jumeirah foodie hotspot The Pointe.

Service and detail that shape your journey.

Immerse in the luxury of rich experiences at the JW Penthouse Suite and Marquis Penthouse Suite, spread across two levels of impeccably designed space with a touch of traditional Arabic design.

Each 624sqm suite features two separate bedrooms with two separate living rooms.

Additional benefits include complimentary airport transfers, private check-in and check-out and access to the award-winning Executive Lounge on the 37th floor.

Enjoy celebratory dining in more than 15 restaurants and bars, and pampering at the luxurious Saray Spa.

JW MarriottÂŽ MarquisÂŽ Hotel Dubai jwmarriott.com/DXBJW Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971.4.414.0000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com