DXB City Expert - September'18

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TOURS Let those in the know showcase their city

FOOD

Brunch and beyond – tuck into the best eats

SHOPS

Browse the bazaars and hit the luxury malls

ACTIVITIES

Swing into action: Dubai is a grownup's playground

NIGHTLIFE

Jump to the beat at these lively venues

SEPTEMBER 2018

YOUR GUIDE TO DUBAI’S MUST-HAVE VISITOR EXPERIENCES

#BRUNCH068

BRUNCH WITH A LICENSE TO GRILL

When the world is not enough, unleash your inner Bond and experience the high life at the brunch. With a license to grill, this exciting brunch will satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Live another day while sipping on signature beverages and taking in Dubai’s daring views from the world’s tallest 5-star hotel.

Enter the Vault for the GoldenEye after-party, where beverages are shaken, not stirred.

Every Friday from 1pm to 4pm, starting from AED 495 ‘For Your Eyes Only’ JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay T +971 4 414 3000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JW Marriott Marquis Dubai I JWDubaiMarquis I Prime68DXB

WELCOME NOTE

WELCOME TO DUBAI Editorial Editorial Director John Thatcher

W

e know it can feel a little overwhelming when you first set foot in Dubai. How exactly do you explore this ultra-modern metropolis? Where do you start? We love Dubai and we want to ensure that you feel the same, which is why we decided to create this handy-sized, helpful guide to ease you on your way.

Managing Editor Faye Bartle

Rather than present you with a long list of recommendations that would take you the duration of your holiday to read, our Dubai-based team of in-the-know writers has cherry-picked the city’s best bits, leaving you free to simply enjoy it. From the best restaurants with views to write home about to the boutiques brimming with homegrown designs, the coolest clubs and topnotch family entertainment – it's all inside these pages. We’ll also tell you which of the many organised tours are the best to take to see the city’s ample attractions. All you need to do is enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.

Sub-Editor Salil Kumar Art Art Director Kerri Bennett Designer Jamie Pudsey Commercial Managing Director Victoria Thatcher Group Commercial Director David Wade

John Thatcher Editorial Director DXB City Expert With its year-round sunshine, it's practically impossible to have the hump in Dubai

Commercial Director Rawan Chehab Senior Advertising Manager Mia Cachero

Cover image: The Track, Meydan Golf

Production Production Manager Muthu Kumar

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23 SEPTEMBER – 6 OCTOBER 2018

Get a taste of the Business Bay neighborhood across 13 award-winning restaurants and celebrity Chef events at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai and Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai.

Experience 2 weeks of global flavours and savour crafted 3-course set menus starting from AED 130. Don’t miss special appearances by international Chefs Masaharu Morimoto and David Myers, and culinary masterclasses!

AED 130 – PUBS & GRUBS Bridgewater Tavern Aqua Poolside Grill & Bar La Farine Café & Bakery

AED 160 – CASUAL DINING Izakaya Positano Garden BHAR BASTA! By David Myers

AED 190 – FINE DINING

Prime68 Rang Mahal Tong Thai Bleu Blanc by David Myers Morimoto Dubai

For restaurant reservations at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, please call +971 4 414 3000 For restaurant reservations at Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai, please call +971 4 512 5599

CONTENTS

THE CONTENTS

Madinat Jumeirah waterways (photo by Zosia Korcz)

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The experts are on hand to help you discover the best bits of Dubai and beyond

Underwater, on the water, on the sand and in the snow: the ways to explore Dubai

SO THIS IS DUBAI

THE TOURS

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Before you embark on the holiday of a lifetime, take this quick history lesson

ON ARRIVAL

THE FOOD

All you need to know when you From fine dining to homegrown touch down in Dubai, with top cafés and the very best places tips on getting around to indulge in brunch

THE ACTIVITIES

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THE NIGHTLIFE

From hip hangouts to rooftop terraces, we've rounded up the liveliest evening venues

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The skinny on the top tourist districts, including the most happening 'hoods

Trawl the mega malls and haggle in the traditional souks – it's time to hit the shops

Dubai is a dream destination for photography fans – we showcase one stunning shot

GET YOUR BEARINGS

THE SHOPS

IN THE FRAME

Produced for dnata by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. All prices mentioned are correct at the time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors contained in DXB City Expert.

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS

SO THIS IS DUBAI

Get the skinny on the city with a quick history lesson. Armed with knowledge, head out to discover all the emirate has to offer for the holiday of a lifetime Camel riding at Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai

SCRATCH BENEATH THE SURFACE A city of visual superlatives, it’s difficult to imagine Dubai without the gravitydefying presence of Burj Khalifa, the roar of supercars along its highways and wealth of plush malls, luxury hotels and record-breaking attractions.

Back in 1833, the nomadic Bani Yas tribe – led by the Maktoum family – migrated from the country’s desert interior to what was just a small coastal fishing, pearling and trading settlement.

Nothing much changed for the next 100 years until Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum became ruler and ordered that Dubai Creek be dredged to accommodate larger trading vessels, thus setting in motion the transformation of Dubai into a modern mega city.

The discovery of ‘black gold’ in 1966

was the real game-changer with newly found oil wealth the catalyst for the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. In an historic first, the ruling tribes of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah came together on 2 December 1971, followed by Ras Al Khaimah one year later, to form the country.

Under the leadership of the UAE’s first president, the late Sheikh Zayed (ruler of Abu Dhabi), and with the can-do attitude of Sheikh Rashid and support of the rulers of the other five emirates, the rest, as they say, is history.

The modern-day metropolis you’ve seen on TV is every bit as exciting as you can imagine. For a rich experience, we recommend that you get out onto the city streets, meet some of the more than 200 nationalities who are proud

to call Dubai home, and discover just what makes this one of the best destinations in the world to visit.

The climate September marks the end of summer (almost) with a welcome drop in temperature, although you can still expect highs of around 39°C (102°F).

The currency The UAE Dirham is what you’ll use. Notes come in 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5, and their value is pegged at Dhs3.67 = USD1.

The weekend The UAE weekend falls on Friday/ Saturday. Friday is the holy day so bear in mind that some attractions may be closed until the early evening.

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ON ARRIVAL

You’ve arrived and you want to get to your hotel ASAP. Read our quick tips to get you out of the airport and into holiday mode, pronto Let Marhaba lend a hand at the airport

LEAVING THE AIRPORT There are plenty of public taxis available at the airport, although you may need to queue. Women can get a step ahead by hopping into one of the pink-roofed taxis reserved especially for female travellers and families, and driven by ladies. Your fare will include a set airport pick-up fee of Dhs25.

Dubai International Airport is also connected to Dubai Metro at Terminals 1 and 3, with trains running every 10 minutes from 5am (or 10am on Fri) to midnight Sat to Wed and until 1am on Thur and Fri. If you’ve got extra baggage, best take a taxi, as metro travellers are restricted to one regular suitcase and one piece of hand luggage only.

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All the major car hire companies have desks located after arrivals. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and in possession of a valid driving licence from their home country. Remember, we drive on the right-hand side here.

When the time comes to leave, you'll enjoy a chauffeur pick-up from anywhere in Dubai, a quick journey through departures and access to the Marhaba lounge, where you can unwind and help yourself to the complimentary food and drink.

WHIZZ THROUGH WITH MARHABA

GET CONNECTED

Take a load off by booking a Marhaba service (+971 4 389 8989, marhabaservices.com) that will help you make a speedy arrival and departure. When you touch down, the friendly staff will be waiting with a buggy transfer to passport control, where you'll be fast-tracked through the queue before a porter collects your luggage from the carousel.

At the airport, you can pick up a Tourist SIM for local use. Simply pay the activation fee of Dhs65 and enjoy the Tourist Plan for data, calls and texts at a fraction of the roaming charges. Simply head to the Du shop in the arrivals hall at Terminals 1 or 3. You can top it up easily with prepaid cards sold at all major convenience stores, supermarkets and Du outlets (du.ae) across the city.

F R I DAY

Fork

Cork

Treat yourself to a tantalising Friday Brunch to remember at Crescendo, Anantara The Palm. Experience a mouth-watering culinary journey through a selection of global flavours in a relaxed, yet lively setting for friends and family.

Every Friday 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm AED 365 per person, including soft beverages AED 525 per person, including house beverages AED 630 per person, including Italian sparkling AED 735 per person, including bubbly *Inclusive of 7% Municipality Fee, 10% Service Charge and 5% VAT

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 8304 • F +971 4 567 8009 • E restaurants.dubai@anantara.com

GET YOUR BEARINGS

If it's your first time in the city, you're probably not au fait with the hip and happening 'hoods. Here's the low-down on the top tourist districts to explore

Dubai Marina (photo by Nick Fewings)

DOWNTOWN DUBAI Go big or go home is the name of the game here, with the area boasting an impressive collection of iconic attractions, including: one of the world's largest shopping malls, The Dubai Mall; the tallest tower on the planet, Burj Khalifa; the all-singing-all-dancing The Dubai Fountain; and the architecturallystunning Dubai Opera. Trawl the mall's multitude of shops, pick up some mementoes at the Arabicstyle Souk Al Bahar and pose for selfies along the Waterfront Promenade before enjoying dinner and drinks overlooking Burj Lake.

Burj Khalifa (photo by Clay Banks)

DUBAI MARINA AND JBR Those with a taste for luxury will feel right at home in this vibrant district, which is one of the city's most popular (and glamorous) residential neighbourhoods.

Built around a man-made marina and flanked by a virtual forest of residential towers, Dubai Marina boasts two beachfront promenades – The Walk and The Beach at JBR. These are lined with hotels, eateries and super trendy shops. It’s largely pedestrian friendly but is bisected by Dubai Tram, which handily stops outside the popular Dubai Marina Mall, home to 140 retail outlets spread across four levels.

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Jumeirah (photo by Roman Logov)

JUMEIRAH The low-rise villa neighbourhood that spawned the Jumeirah Jane epithet (think 'ladies who lunch'), Jumeirah's domestic suburbia reputation has been given a makeover in recent years with the development of hip new retail, dining and entertainment enclaves such as La Mer, BoxPark, City Walk and food truck friendly Jumeirah Corniche. Topped at one end by Jumeirah Mosque and tailed by Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Madinat Jumeirah at the other, it’s a cross-cultural hotspot. Wild Wadi Water Park is a firm favourite among residents and tourists alike, offering 30 hair-raising rides and slides for all the family.

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

PALM JUMEIRAH Another of Dubai’s iconic man-made projects – best viewed from above to fully appreciate its creatively engineered design – Palm Jumeirah blends posh apartments and villas with luxury hotels and malls all the way from its trunk to the tips of its feathered fronds. Ride the Palm Monorail to Atlantis The Palm, Dubai and enjoy the thrills and spills of Aquaventure Waterpark. Be sure to check out the bevy of five-star hotels and their various eateries along the 11km-long crescent, from One&Only The Palm Resort to Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (photo by Zosia Korcz)

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD The pulsing arterial vein cutting through the city, this 8km-long stretch of busy highway runs parallel to the coastline. Numerous hotels are situated along its length, including JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, and there are plenty of attractions worth making a diversion for. We recommend feeling the grass beneath your feet at Zabeel Park, and checking out Dubai Water Canal, which is illuminated by night.

A slice of SZR (photo by Fairmont Dubai)

BUR DUBAI AND DEIRA On either side of Dubai Creek you can discover the heritage heartland of the city. Feed your appetite for culture on the Bur Dubai side at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which is home to preserved wind tower houses, Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House (one of the oldest buildings in the city). Take a Dhs1 ferry ride across the water to Deira to explore the traditional souks and sample the street food.

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CITY MAP

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SO THIS IS DUBAI

City Sightseeing Dubai

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SEP

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SEPTEMBER IN DUBAI

Opera, art and a spectacular stage show – there's a lot on for culture vultures this month

CARMEN AT DUBAI OPERA

Carmen at Dubai Opera

Opera lovers can watch Carmen, one of the world’s most popular productions, at Dubai Opera from 6-8 September. The Armenian National Academic Theatre Opera and Orchestra will bring to life the dramatic tale of the doomed love affair of a soldier, Don Jose, who falls for Carmen, a fiery gypsy factorygirl. Written by French composer Georges Bizet, and first performed in 1875, Carmen is one of the most popular and frequently performed operas in the classical canon; and the Habanera from Act 1 and the Toreador Song from Act 2 are among the best known of all operatic arias. dubaiopera.com

JOIN AN ART WORKSHOP Curious to learn more about calligraphy, etching or printmaking?

Creativity and culture combine at the art and design workshops that are being held by Tashkeel this month.

Highlights in the series include an introduction to the history and practice of calligraphy

by Majid Alyousef, and a demonstration of the techniques used in intaglio (printmaking) by Kim Robertson. tashkeel.org

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JOURNEY INTO SHADOWLAND Theatrical spectacle Shadowland, which has been seen by more than one million people worldwide, will have a three-day run at Dubai World Trade Centre starting 13 September.

The show, which blends various artistic disciplines including ballet, circus and shadow theatre with multimedia images, tells the story of a girl's journey to a mystical new world. shadowland.ae

worldtravellermagazine.com Your passport to the Middle East's first fully bookable travel inspiration website

Extend your journey with World Traveller magazine by heading online to read more inspirational and exclusive travel content and take advantage of upto-the-minute hotel and holiday features

Dream Read Click Book

UNCOVER EVEN MORE FUN AND THRILLS THIS SUMMER!

Every Friday, we are opening our doors from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm for more fun with your friends and family. Enjoy all our thrilling rides, gourmet meals and refreshments under the evening sky from June to September!

Buy your ticket online today on wildwadi.com or call us on +971 4 348 4444

THE TOURS Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari

The Tours

Bags unpacked, suncream slathered on – it’s time to get out and see what this city is all about. Take a cue from our friends at Arabian Adventures and City Sightseeing who are on hand to help you discover the best bits with their selection of top tours… PLUS, KIDS GO FREE! Up to two kids under 16 years old go free when booking with both parents. Valid until 30 September 2018 on the Traditional Dubai City Tour; Abu Dhabi City Tour; East Coast Tour and the Private Dune Dinner (for two adults and two kids).

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MODERN DUBAI CITY TOUR

See the best of Dubai’s iconic landmarks on one, awe-inspiring journey Departs from all emirates

Marvel at the futuristic skyline

Explore the iconic landmarks that make up the city’s futuristic skyline. From Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina to Downtown Dubai and The Dubai Mall – this tour takes in all the highlights. ● See Palm Jumeirah on a scenic drive ● Continue to popular residential area Dubai Marina and enjoy a picturesque 20-minute boat ride ● Take a walk through retail and entertainment haven The Dubai Mall, passing by Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, which features a 10-million-litre tank (one of the largest in the world) containing more than 33,000 aquatic animals, including the largest collection of sand tiger sharks on the planet – it's also home to King Croc ● Visit the observation decks at At The Top, Burj Khalifa for a bird's eye view of the city (purchasing an entry ticket is an optional extra) ● Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure in The Dubai Mall with its many dining and entertainment options

ASK THE CITY EXPERT Nabil Almallah Tour Guide, Arabian Adventures Guests really enjoy seeing the amazing architecture and modern sights of Dubai while learning more about the city on this half-day tour.

THE FACTS How much: Starting from Dhs184 for children and Dhs236 for adults (excluding At The Top) and Dhs315 for children and Dhs368 for adults (including At The Top).

All prices inclusive of VAT. Departures: Daily (morning).

Languages: English and German (daily); French and Italian (Sun, Wed, Fri); Spanish and Portuguese (Mon, Wed, Sat); Russian (Mon and Thur); Mandarin (Mon, Wed, Sat); Japanese (Mon and Thur).

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Half-day.

Transport: Coach (sharing).

Activity: Moderate.

Good to Know: Ends at The Dubai Mall.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

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All aboard for the Dubai Marina boat ride

Want to see it all?

You can now book the Modern Dubai City Tour and the Traditional Dubai City Tour together as a mega sightseeing combo!

THE TOURS

TRADITIONAL DUBAI CITY TOUR A ‘must-do’ for any visitor to the emirate

ASK THE CITY EXPERT MUHAMMAD YOUNUS Tour guide, Arabian Adventures My favourite parts of the tour are stopping by the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk. The mixture of nationalities you meet at these marketplaces offers a truly authentic experience for all.

Make aromatic discoveries in the Spice Souk

Departs from all emirates Discover the traditional neighbourhoods of Dubai for a richer insight into the city's rich heritage and trading culture. ● Head to Jumeirah Mosque for a photo opportunity ● Continue to Zabeel Palace for another photo stop and onto the traditional side of Dubai ● Pass by Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which is known for its wind towers, and on towards Dubai Creek ● Visit Dubai Museum ● Take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride, crossing over Dubai Creek ● Follow our entertaining guide through the Spice Souk and Gold Souk

● Take the transfer back to your hotel

Cross Dubai Creek on an abra

THE FACTS How much: Dhs184 for adults and Dhs116 for children, including VAT. English departures: Daily (afternoon).

Languages: English and German (daily); French and Italian (Sun, Wed, Fri); Portuguese, Spanish and Mandarin (Sat, Mon, Wed); Japanese (mornings on Sun-Sat and Fri afternoons); Russian (Mon and Thur).

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Half- or full-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Moderate.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

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ABU DHABI CITY TOUR

See the UAE’s vibrant capital and its landmark buildings

ASK THE CITY EXPERT Natalia Bashkirova

See the stunning Emirates Palace

Departs from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Abu Dhabi Explore the sights and landmarks of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, on a full-day tour from Dubai. ● Stop for refreshments on Yas Island, with views of Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ● Visit the traditional fruit, vegetable and date market ● Pass by the dhow and fish market area and see traders at work ● Stop at Marina Mall and opt to have lunch at one of the cafés. (Lunch is not included in the tour price due to the variety of options available) ● Drive along Abu Dhabi Corniche ● Pass by Emirates Palace, the Al Bateen area and the royal palaces

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● Take a tour of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ● Return to Dubai and back to your hotel

THE FACTS How much: Dhs289 including VAT.

English departures: Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat.

Languages: English and German (Mon, Tue, Wed and Sat); French and Italian (Tue and Sat); Russian (Wed and Sat); Japanese only (Sun and Wed).

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Full-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Easy.

Dress code: There is a strictly modest dress code for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

Drive along Abu Dhabi Corniche

Tour Guide, Arabian Adventures It's always a pleasure to guide my guests around the UAE capital.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture with a spectacularly decorated interior.

THE TOURS

ABU DHABI ATTRACTIONS

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the exciting attractions on Yas Island Departs from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Abu Dhabi Visit the top attractions in Abu Dhabi on a fun-filled tour of the capital. ● The tour starts with pick-up at your hotel before heading along Sheikh Zayed Road to Abu Dhabi ● Stop at the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for a tour. One the world’s largest mosques, it features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-karat gold gilded chandeliers and the world's largest hand knotted carpet ● After the tour, leave the city and drive onto Yas Island ● Choose to spend an exciting afternoon at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Alternatively, visit the many shopping, dining and leisure attractions at Yas Mall ● After a thrilling afternoon, depart for Dubai and back to your hotel

See the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Feel the need for speed at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

THE FACTS How much: Including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: adult Dhs520, child Dhs394.

Visiting Yas Mall: adult Dhs289, child Dhs184. (Prices are inclusive of VAT.) English departures: Sun, Thurs.

Languages: English and German (Sun and Thur); French and Italian (Thur); Portuguese and Spanish (Sun, Tue and Thur); Russian (Sun and Thur); Mandarin (Sun, Tue, Thur).

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Full-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Easy.

Dress code: There's a strictly modest dress code for Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Good to know: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world with rides and experiences for the whole family. The biggest mall in Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall comprises 25 million square feet of shops and entertainment.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

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EAST COAST TOUR

See the highlights of this picturesque part of the UAE Admire the striking scenery

ASK THE CITY EXPERT Step back in time

Departs from Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman Take a day to explore the picturesque East Coast of the UAE. From quaint fishing villages to mountain canyons and beautiful beaches, you'll see all the best bits. ● Heading east, drive through Sharjah towards the Al-Hajar Mountains ● In the small town of Masafi, shop at the Friday Market, open daily, where

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you can buy local crafts, pottery and carpets ● Drive along wadis and through deep canyons ● Stop for lunch (not included in the price) at a beachside hotel, with time for a swim in the sea ● Drive through Al Aqah and stop for a photo at Bidiyah Mosque, the oldest and smallest mosque in the UAE ● See the iconic Fujairah Fort, before spending some time at Fujairah Museum

You'll have time for a dip in the sea

● Stop for photos in front of Fujairah's beautiful Sheikh Zayed Mosque ● Take the mountain highway through the Al Hajar Mountains back to Dubai

THE FACTS How much: Dhs273 for adults and Dhs163 for children, including VAT. Departures: Mon, Wed, Fri. Languages: English, German and Russian.

Availability: Year-round.

TAREQ AWIS Tour guide, Arabian Adventures Leaving Dubai behind, you'll see the desert and Al-Hajar Mountains and spend the day exploring the beautiful area around Al Aqah in Fujairah. See the sights and have lunch – there's even time for a swim.

Duration: Full-day.

Transport: Coach.

Activity: Moderate.

Dress Code: Modest dress and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Bring your swimwear and a beach towel.

Good to know: Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

THE TOURS

DESERT DUNE BUGGIES Ideal for thrill-seekers looking for their next big adventure

Hit the dunes for sunset thrills Photography @theskybeyond

Departs from all emirates Try a truly exhilarating adventure driving across the dunes in the latest, fully automatic, four-seater, off-road dune buggy. ● Follow your guide along the natural trail of the dunes ● Driving and safety instructions, as well as safety gear, are provided ● All dune buggies are fully automatic and equipped with seatbelts, roll cages and off-road suspension

● Enjoy exciting photo opportunities ● Book an Exclusive Buggy for up to four friends and take turns behind the wheel or ride as a passenger ● Book a Driver Experience and you will have the chance to drive for at least 20 minutes out of the two-hour experience, as you take turns with up to three other guests in your shared buggy ● Book a Passenger Experience and ride along

with our safari guide in the lead buggy

THE FACTS How much: Dhs730 for the driving experience and Dhs315 to ride as a passenger only. An exclusive buggy for up to four guests is priced at Dhs1,575 (all prices inclusive of VAT).

Departures: Daily.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Two hours in the dune buggies.

Transport: Four-wheel drive (sharing) and Can-Am Maverick X3 desert dune buggies.

Activity: Moderate.

Good to know: Drivers must bring a valid driver’s licence.

Passengers must be at least six years old. Refundable deposit required.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

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SUNDOWNER DUNE DINNER SAFARI Embark on a magical safari experience to remember

The kids will love sandboarding in the dunes

ASK THE CITY EXPERT FAISAL KHAN

A portion of the ticket price helps support conservation efforts

Departs from all emirates The mysterious desert is the ideal venue for a memorable evening. Watch the sun go down as you drive to our traditional Bedouin-style camp where a delicious dinner awaits. ● Leave your hotel and the city behind, driving into the desert in Land Cruisers with our entertaining safari guide ● Enjoy the thrill of a dune drive across Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve ● Stop to see a falcon (weather permitting) ● At sunset, stop for photos atop a dune ● Arrive at our Bedouin-style camp where desert activities and a bonfire await ● Experience a taster of desert activities including a

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camel ride, sand-boarding and henna hand painting, or discover shisha ● Move to the seating area and sample an Arabic style, three-course buffet ● Those aged 21 years and over can enjoy unlimited beverages (except on the eve of religious holidays) ● Watch a belly dancing performance (entertainment may vary during religious holidays) ● Souvenirs and photos are available to buy

THE FACTS How much: Adult Dhs395, child Dhs320, inclusive of VAT.

Departures: Daily.

Availability: Year-round.

Duration: Late afternoon to early evening.

Transport: Four-wheel drive (sharing).

Activity: Easy.

Good to know: There’s the option to upgrade to a private four-wheel drive vehicle, or to skip the dune

Safari guide, Arabian Adventures This must-do safari is suitable for everyone.

At the campsite, there are lots of activities to try, such as sand-boarding, camel rides and even a spot of stargazing. Guests always say how the memories will last a lifetime.

drive altogether. Toilets are available at the campsite.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com

Live entertainment keeps the evening buzzing

THE TOURS

PRIVATE DUNE DINNER

Grab your night vision binoculars and take part in scorpion tracking and stargazing This tour is an ideal way to surprise someone special

A portion of the ticket price helps support conservation efforts

EXCLUSIVE SAFARI Departs from all emirates Surprise your nearest and dearest, celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a quiet romantic evening in an idyllic setting thanks to this exclusive dune dinner safari experience. ● Our safari guide will collect you from your hotel in a four-wheel drive Land Cruiser and, leaving the city behind, will take you on a journey into the desert ● Enter the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and enjoy a thrilling dune drive ● Stop for falcon viewing (weather permitting) ● Take a short camel ride to

your private desert gazebo ● Relax and enjoy a tableservice Arabic dinner in your own Bedouin-style tent at a private site ● Unlimited adult beverages for those aged 21 and over ● Away from the city lights, you can enjoy a spot of stargazing

and a guided tour.

Duration: Late afternoon to early evening.

Transport: Four-wheel drive (sharing).

Activity: Easy.

Good to know: Extras such as a celebratory cake,

henna hand-painting, or a belly dance performance, can be added.

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com Dine amid the dunes

THE FACTS How much: Starting from Dhs1,790 per couple (including VAT).

Departures: Daily.

Language: English.

Availability: Year-round.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included, as is food, soft drinks and adult beverages,

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NIGHT TOUR

See the city come alive with light that illuminates the night's sky

HIGHLIGHTS

● Discover two sightseeing routes showcasing Dubai by night ● See all the major sights including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Festival City and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai ● Audio commentary in 13 languages

Pass by Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

See Dubai transform by night into a sparkling city of lights while discovering its cultural heart. The 'Sunset Red' route lets you explore the historic Dubai Creek, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai Festival City, Shindagha and Deira districts where the traditional souks are located.

Meanwhile, the 'Midnight Blue' route showcases the striking skyline, including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm, Dubai.

THE FACTS Days of operation: Daily from 6.15-10pm.

What’s included: Hop-on, hop-off access to all City

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Sightseeing buses on two routes for three hours.

Good to know: This tour is free when purchasing a 1 Day, 3 Day or 7 Day City Sightseeing Dubai Pass; both routes are included in the ticket price and there is enough time to do both.

Languages: English, Arabic, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Mandarin, Japanese, Turkish and Farsi.

How much: Dhs180 per adult and Dhs120 per child (6-11 years). Includes VAT. To book please visit citysightseeing-dubai.com, or call 800CSDUBAI (800 273 8224)/+971 4 316 7506

Take your seat on the open-top bus

THE TOURS

CITY SIGHTSEEING TOUR

Discover Dubai at your own pace on the ultimate city bus tour Photo opportunities abound

HIGHLIGHTS

● Four sightseeing routes ● Audio commentary in 13 languages ● Complimentary tickets to other attractions (see below)

The 'hop on, hop off' concept is simple: a ticket is valid for one day or more, with over 38 bus stops across four city routes. You decide when to ride, where to get off, and what to visit. Tickets have lots of added extras and there is commentary in 13 languages.

Operating from 9am to 10pm (varies on selected routes), 365 days a year.

THE FACTS Days of operation: Daily, from 9am to 5.30pm.

What’s included: The

1 Day Pass includes: a cultural dhow cruise plus Pearl Experience; a dhow cruise at Al Seef, entry to Dubai Museum, a seat on the City of Lights Night Tour, and a free cup of coffee at Costa Coffee when you purchase one.

The 3 Day Pass includes: all the above inclusions, plus entry to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, a one-hour Palm Jumeirah Cruise, and a 20% discount at Sun& Mediterranean Lounge.

The 7 Day Pass includes all

the above experiences, a trip on the Flying Cup at The Beach at JBR, plus a onehour Canal Tour.

Good to know: Before your 1 Day Pass has expired, you can upgrade to 3 or 7 Day Pass.

Languages: English, Arabic, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Mandarin, Japanese, Turkish and Farsi.

How much: The 1 Day Pass is priced at Dhs260 per adult and Dhs160 per child; 3 Day Pass is Dhs350 per

adult and Dhs250 per child; 7 Day Pass is Dhs450 per adult and Dhs350 per child. (Children are aged 6-11 and prices are inclusive of VAT.) To book please visit citysightseeing-dubai.com, or call 800CSDUBAI (800 273 8224)/+971 4 316 7506

Follow us

CitySightseeingDubai @cssdubai #cssdubai

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Morimoto

The Food

Dubai’s cultural diversity is reflected in its culinary mosaic of fantastic restaurants – from the best Indian food this side of the subcontinent to sleek Japanese eateries and authentic Arabic mezze.

It’s little wonder that world-renowned chefs are falling over themselves to open venues in the city 26

THE FOOD

WHAT’S NEW IN TOWN? Having proved a smash hit at its beachside location in the city, STK has opened a second venue, this one aside the world's tallest tower. So what makes STK Downtown Dubai (+971 4 425 3948, stkhouse.com) at the Address Downtown Hotel stand apart from its slightly elder sibling? For a start there's the views of that Dubai icon, Burj Khalifa, which are yours to snap for Instagram from a sprawling outdoor garden terrace. Then there's the larger indoor area, giving more space for diners to lay down their steak knives, spring from their booths and bust a move, encouraged by the party-starting beats of the in-restaurant DJ. The food, however, remains the same – and excellent. And don't let the name fool you into thinking non-carnivores need not enter – the menu features some fantastic fish dishes (the passion fruit miso black cod tops the lot) and a brilliant raw bar serving up tartare, carpaccio and zesty ceviche.

Fresh from Lebanon to the wonderful waterfront destination of La Mer, Babel (+971 4 419 0220, @BabelLaMer) brings with it its award-winning Mediterranean classics, served with a signature twist.

Start with a full mezze to share (bonus points available if you can stop yourself from requesting more of the piping-hot homemade bread) before moving on to seafood specialities, of which the simple but fabulously fresh salmon sashimi is our pick.

STK Downtown Dubai

Babel

Rang Mahal

INCREDIBLE INDIAN Few restaurants have mastered modern Indian cuisine quite like the multi-awardwinning Rang Mahal (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com), which graces the second floor of JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. The varied menu, which fuses tradition with contemporary flair, sings with a cacophony of flavour and creativity. We heartily recommend you indulge in one of the great value tasting menus – every bite is a delight.

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That’s a good deal Eating out as a family can of course be an expensive necessity when on holiday, but choose wisely and not only can you bag a bargain but enjoy award-winning food to boot.

That's the double delight awaiting families at Positano's Sunday night, all-you-can-eat brunch. Prices start from Dhs180 per person, soft drinks included, while kids aged under 10 eat for free. 6pm-midnight. +971 4 414 3000 jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

If there’s a sure thing in the restaurant industry it’s that an Indian restaurant operated by Taj Hotels is going to be good, if not very good.

Falling very much into the latter category, Bombay Brasserie (+971 4 438 3100, tajhotels.com) sees chef de cuisine Ajay Negi conjure up flavours as vibrant as the restaurant’s interiors.

Bag the right table and you’ll also take in the sight of The Dubai Fountain.

It has hosted A-listers including Sir Paul McCartney at its flagship Mumbai venue. In Dubai, gastronauts can embark on a spice-laden journey through northern India at Khyber at DUKES Dubai (+971 4 455 1111, dukesdubai.com). The culinary offering is headed up by chef Faizan Ali, who oversees a team of six north Indian chefs. Together, they conjure up expertly spiced signature dishes, such as kaalo dal and. Snag a table on the terrace for great views of Dubai Marina.

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In a wonderful, colonial style settting, Little Miss India (+971 4 457 3457, fairmont.com) at Fairmont The Palm excels in housemade spice mixtures and marinades – used to brilliant effect in both the food and inspired cocktails, which put an Indian spin on classic recipes.

CHINESE CRACKERS Shang Palace (+971 4 405 2703, shangri-la.com) at the Shangri-La Dubai is an old favourite that never fluctuates from serving up outstanding Cantonese cuisine: case in point, the signature cod fish with grapes and well-balanced orange sauce.

Another purveyor of high-quality Chinese classics is Shiba (+971 4 381 3111, meydanhotels.com), at The Meydan Hotel, where the interactive open kitchen adds a sprinkling of theatre. For special occasions, request the Tatami-style private dining room.

Ask a Top Chef

Chef Daniele Marcellini Chef de Cuisine, Bussola

I recommend Ramusake (ramusake.ae) at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai. This dynamic and modern restaurant serves Japanese delicacies with a modern twist. The interior is amazing and the food is always fresh and well presented.

THE FOOD

A TRUE TASTE OF THE EMIRATES Considering all the many colourful cuisines Dubai has to offer, it might come as a surprise to learn that good Emirati food is not so easy to come by.

However, slowly but surely, more and more authentic Emirati restaurants are cropping up across town.

An enduring favourite is Al Fanar (+971 4 232 9966, alfanarrestaurant. com), located along Canal Walk in Dubai Festival City Mall. You can dine outside on floor cushions in the traditional majlis or at a table in the central courtyard area, which looks like a traditional Emirati home.

The dishes on offer include chicken machboos (spiced chicken mixed with rice), grilled shaari fish and jesheed (baby shark cooked with onions and punchy spices).

You’ll find camel on the menu at Aseelah (+971 4 205 7333, radissonblu. com/hotel-dubaideiracreek) in the Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, alongside other dishes made using local ingredients, such as a tender Arabian lobster.

For an insight into the country's heritage, The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353 6666, cultures.ae) offers interactive ‘cultural meals’ – so named because guests are encouraged to ask questions on anything that relates to the Emirati culture – prepared by local chefs in order to preserve the traditions and customs of the Bedouin people. They offer cultural breakfast on Mondays and Wednesdays, cultural lunch on Sundays and Tuesdays, cultural brunch every Saturday and a cultural dinner every Tuesday. Advance booking is required.

THIS MONTH'S

Top table

FOODIE DISTRICT

CLUB VISTA MARE Fancy soaking up spectacular views of the cityscape when sitting down to dinner? Club Vista Mare, a Dhs120 million beachfront promenade of restaurants, bars and cafés on Palm Jumeirah, allows you to do just that. Among the dining venues, each with an al fresco terrace, is Breeze Beach Grill (+971 4 568 3000), a beach grill concept that has a raw bar and deli counter. There’s also Aji (+971 4 552 0244, aji.ae) – in case you're wondering, it's pronounced ‘ah-hee’ – which specialises in Japanese-Peruvian (Nikkei) cuisine. Come here on a Monday night from 8pm and ladies can enjoy three complimentary drinks and 30% off their food. It's packed and good fun to boot. To try food that might be new to your tastebuds, head to Gursha (+971 4 554 2665, gursha-dubai.com). It's an Ethiopian restaurant, where the food – the likes of spicy lentil stews and curries thick with caramalised onions and spices – is served to share and eaten with your hands, once you've scooped some up with injera, a thin bread.

ARMANI/HASHI If you're a sucker for the pure flavours and exquisite presentations of Japanese cuisine, you're sure to be impressed by Armani/Hashi at Burj Khalifa (+971 4 888 3666, armanihoteldubai.com), which is back in action following its annual summer culinary hiatus. Choose from the signature kamo duck burger and crunchy octopus tempura followed by homemade mocha ice cream, alongside signature drinks including the chef’s favourite, Bushing Geisha. The venue has a relaxed vibe, with tunes courtesy of resident DJ Cammora, who has played with Armin Van Buuren, among others. Open daily from 7pm-11pm.

Aji

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ARABIC YOU’LL ADORE For an authentic desert dining experience under the stars, journey to Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa (+971 4 809 6194, alhadheerah.com). Take your pick from 14 live cooking stations offering traditional Middle Eastern dishes prepared using age-old recipes. Live entertainment adds to the ambience. Open daily from 7.30pm to 11.30pm – try and plan your visit on a Thursday or Friday evening to catch the amazing fireworks display.

A hit among Dubai’s sizeable Lebanese community, Al Falamanki (alfalamanki. com) is an outpost of one of Beirut’s most famous restaurants. Like the original, this sprawling Jumeirah Beach Road branch features indoor and outdoor areas, homely décor and a soft soundtrack of old-school Arabic music. On the menu are hot and cold mezze, salads, grills and manakeesh, along with a selection of shisha. The done thing here is to order a load of dishes to share and settle in for a game of backgammon.

Olea (+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates prides itself on authentic cuisine, thanks to its 14-strong team of chefs drawn from Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine. The

relaxed space features a lovely outdoor terrace and menu highlights include the lamb kofta, served on a 1.5m-long skewer.

TURKISH DELIGHTS In Souk Al Bahar, the outdoor terrace at Günaydin (+971 4 554 0700, gunaydindubai.com) is a top spot for views of Burj Khalifa and, at night, The Dubai Fountain. The Turkish ‘meatery’ serves meat in all its forms: traditional döner, succulent kebabs, juicy meatballs, and lovingly cooked steaks. Over at Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai favourite Colin Clague can be found working his magic at high design Anatolian eatery Rüya (+971 4 399 9123, ruyadubai.com).

Infused with caramelised and charcoal flavours, cağ kebabı (marinated lamb kebab) is the pick of the menu.

TIME FOR THAI Showcasing unique regional dishes alongside street food favourites and authentic yet inventive classics, Tong Thai (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, is regularly voted the best Thai restaurant in the city.

Signature curries like creamy panang

IN THE KNOW

Big name chefs JASON ATHERTON Marina Social, InterContinental Dubai Marina. +971 4 446 6777, ihg.com Atherton’s Social concept has won an army of fans in London, and its Dubai offshoot is a great destination for dishes big on detail.

DAVID MYERS Basta!, Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai. +971 4 512 5522, basta-dubai.com One of three Myers' restaurants at this hip hotel, Basta! is a go-to for Italian staples like Florentine steak and Neapolitan pizza.

HEINZ BECK Social, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. +971 4 818 2222, waldorfastoria3.hilton.com A master of modern gastronomy, Beck’s artistry is best conveyed through sublime dishes like saltbaked sea bass with cauliflower, truffle sauce and orange perfume.

Marina Social

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feeling like a VIP that’s Kilban’s marhaba effect The difference is the staff. So caring.

I’m just an ordinary traveller but marhaba makes me feel like a VIP. With people like this, there is only one way you can go—up, up and up!

Kilban

Breeze through all the airport formalities with our meet & greet services in Dubai and Bahrain.

Whether you’re arriving, departing or transferring, marhaba meet & greet makes your time at the airport something to look forward to.

You can also relax in style, no matter what your airline or class of travel, at our lounges in Dubai and Bahrain.

Find your marhaba effect at marhabaservices.com

meet & greet | family packages | marhaba lounge | citystop | transfer service

Mekong

com, +971 4 414 3000) – for a start, the so-called Wasabi Girl (she has wasabi coloured hair) makes the head-blowing Japanese mustard at your table. Yet the food is of serious quality; plump, fabulously fresh sashimi and inventive sushi creations are always on the mark.

You can take a seat at the sushi counter, or position yourself in full view of the live teppanyaki counter at Morimoto Dubai at Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai (+971 4 512 5577, morimotodubai.com), which showcases Masaharu Morimoto's trademark culinary style, with seasonal seafood flown in from markets around the world, including Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji and Fukuoka fish markets.

PAN-ASIAN FLAVOURS

IN THE KNOW

Healthy heroes COMPTOIR 102 Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 4 385 4555, comptoir102.com The menu makes use of the best ingredients from local organic farms to serve up tasty and nutritious dishes that appeal to health food devotees.

WILD & THE MOON Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, 800 9453, wildandthemoon.com Here, the vegan chef has developed a wholesome menu of plant-based recipes to which nothing has been added.

OMNIA GOURMET Jumeirah Fish Harbour, +971 4 343 7181 Somewhat of a hidden gem, chef Silvena Rowe serves up a menu rife with healthy options, from vegan through to paleo.

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kung with tiger prawns and gai phad kaprao with chilli and hot basil pack plenty of depth and flavour, while classics like tom yum have been honed to perfection.

You’ll arrive at Madinat Jumeirah’s Pai Thai (+971 4 432 3232, jumeirah.com) via one of the resort’s abras, floating across a winding waterway – romantic, for sure. Equally satisfying is the food, particularly dishes like goong gratiemprik thai, where crispy tiger prawns are teamed with garlic, coriander and a piquant green pepper sauce.

SUBLIME SUSHI AND SASHIMI Beyond the elsewhere-mentioned Zuma, Dubai is home to a fair few standout Japanese restaurants, including outposts of Novikov and Nobu. Better still, TOMO (+971 4 357 7888, tomo.ae) at Raffles Dubai, is helmed by chef-owner Chitoshi Takahashi, who has devised a vast menu packed with fantastic authentic Japanese delicacies, best navigated with the help of your waiter.

There’s more of a fun vibe over at Izakaya, located at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.

When you crave Asian food in any one of its guises, nowhere does it better than the award-toting Mekong (+971 4 567 8304, dubai-palm.anantara.com) at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

Its lengthy menu includes myriad Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese highlights (the duck curry is a big hitter), which you enjoy on rickshaw-style seating.

Taking her culinary direction from the many varied street foods of Korea, Thailand, China, Vietnam and Japan, Miss Tess (+971 4 438 3121, misstessdubai. com) brings an element of fun dining to Taj Dubai. where the eclecticism of the menu is matched by that of the interiors.

BEST OF BRITISH On Palm Jumeirah, housed in the beautiful Dukes Dubai, is the Great British Restaurant, otherwise known as GBR (+971 4 455 1101, dukesdubai.com).

This is the place to come for expertly cooked (better than your mum makes) roast dinners with all the trimmings, fish and chips with crispy batter and feather-light fish, and comforting cottage pie fashioned from slow cooked beef. Bookend your mains with a fabulous coronation chicken and a sweet treat such as the quintessentially English sticky toffee pudding.

At The Croft (+971 4 319 4000,

at Brunch Grill h ig H Sky ar & kyline atory B d Marina’s enticinhgess, v r e s b O s an of dis

BRUN

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NDS E K E E W YOUR D. E T R O S ARE NOW Brunch Nation at The Croft Join us for this unique and fun brunch, inspired by a blend of cultures and tastes across the Commonwealth. Celebrate food in a social setting, where a massive array of dishes hit your table. Continue the night with delicious drinks and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere on The Croft’s garden.

AED 250 per person including selected beverages (original price AED 399) Fridays, 7pm to 10pm

BRUN

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For restaurant reservations, call 971.4.319.4000.

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street | Dubai Marina marriottharbourdubaidining.com Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites | marriottharbour Terms & Conditions: The discount is valid until 30th September 2018.

This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, promotion or discount and cannot be exchanged for cash.

One Night in Bangkok Add some zest from the Thai capital to your midweek with a special themed set-menu that draws inspiration from the delicacies of Bangkok. Catch live performances of a talented artist playing handpan drum, a traditional instrument.

AED 180 per person for set menu Every Wednesday from 6pm until 11:30pm

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay T +971 4 414 3000 jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com @tongthaidubai #tongthaidubai

THE FOOD Lima Dubai

FOODIE DISTRICT

CITY WALK A vibrant mix of cafés, restaurants and unique boutiques, City Walk is at its best at night, when twinkling lights and neon illuminate the streets and purposely graffitied walls – by some of the world’s best known street artists – below. Along with DIFC and d3, it’s also an area that has a few licensed venues independent of hotels, in The Square.

Galvin Dubai (+971 4 590 5444, galvindubai.com) is the first venture outside the UK for Michelin-starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin. They describe their menu as the “best of British, with a Mediterranean Basin flair” and it’s excellent.

Lima Dubai (800 5462 5462, limadubai.com) is a Peruvian hotspot from Virgilio Martinez, the chef behind Central in Lima, Peru, the fifth

best restaurant on the planet according to the coveted World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Headed by his Central protégé, Diego Sanchez, the top dishes here include an incredibly good octopus and corn brûlée.

Also of note is Toro + Ko (+971 4 590 5433, torodubai.com), a Barcelona-inspired tapas restaurant and bar by awardwinning chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette.

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Basta!

marriott.com), modern British cuisine with a twist is the culinary mantra (try the tongue and cheek pie, it's a surprisingly delicious revelation).

With a focus on sourcing homegrown produce and working with local suppliers where possible, the menu is packed with the expected and the intriguing, with dishes such foie gras-stuffed chicken and Chef Sentil's mum's curry among the highlights.

The Scene (+971 422 2328, thescenedubai.com) by TV chef and serial author Simon Rimmer is the frontrunner at Pier 7, a hugely popular seven-floor, seven-restaurant tower set on a (licensed) pier in Dubai Marina.

British-style comfort food is the gist of it – think succulent, deep-filled pies, veal Scotch eggs, ale-battered fish and chunky chips – while veggies and vegans have their own thoughtfully designed collection of dishes including curries, pies and burger options.

CARIBBEAN QUEENS Different to almost anywhere else in Dubai, Miss Lily’s (+971 4 354 4074, misslilys.com) brings a true taste of the Caribbean to these shores in the

36

IN THE KNOW

Perfect pizza EATALY The Dubai Mall, 800 328 259, eataly.ae Eataly’s simple margherita is so good, the tomato sauce so rich and flavoursome, you may well forgo fancy toppings for ever.

BASTA! BY DAVID MYERS Renaissance Downtown Hotel +971 4 512 5522, basta-dubai.com The celebrity chef adds a sprinkle of stardust to the simple pizza here, serving up such soon-to-be classics as ricotta, farm egg and black truffle crisp from the woodfire oven.

FOODIE DISTRICT

DIFC Within Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is Gate Village, where amid the high-end galleries and auction houses are some of Dubai’s best restaurants.

At Zuma (+971 4 425 5560, zumarestaurant.com) the outstanding Japanese food is best ordered to share. As it is at the always buzzing La Petite Maison (+971 4 439 0505, lpmlondon.co.uk/ dubai), which uses produce from local UAE farms in a number of its fabulous creations, all of which have their roots in FrenchMediterranean cooking.

Elsewhere, Peyote (+971 4 521 6300, peyoterestaurant. com) brings modern Mexican dishes to Dubai, courtesy of the man behind Maximo Bistrot, voted one of Latin America's top 50 restaurants.

Artful dishes, such as tacos de tempura de gambas (tiger prawn tempura, chipotle mayonnaise and lime) are simply delicious.

The newest opening here is Beefbar Dubai (+971 4 352 2223, dubai.beefbar.com), which, as the name suggests, offers beef myriad ways, particularly its speciality – certified Japanese Kobe.

BUSSOLA The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, +971 4 511 7373, bussoladubai.com An old favourite that serves classic crusts from its al fresco upper deck location beside the sea.

La Petite Maison

THE FOOD Carnival by Tresind

Masti

folly by Nick & Scott

MADE IN THE UAE Although Dubai has more than its fair share of excellent restaurants, a huge helping of them are franchised from elsewhere in the world. However, if you want to head to somewhere you’ll only find in Dubai there are some outstanding options to choose from.

With cracking views over Madinat Jumeirah and the sea, folly by Nick & Scott (+971 4 430 8535, folly.ae), two longtime Dubai-based chefs with a rich pedigree – including a combined eight years at Gordon Ramsay Holdings – offers up a thoughtful menu of modern European sharing dishes. The cooking is precise, the flavours impactful,

and what they can do with a mere mushroom and plain old radish needs to be tasted to be believed.

Adored by local gastronomes, Carnival by Tresind (+971 4 4218 665, carnivalbytresind.com) is wildly popular. Expect vibrant interiors and a toy merry-go-round in the centre of each table, alongside intriguing Indian dishes such as pink pani puri and the wonderful beetroot gol gappa.

You’ll want to visit the new and wonderful beachside development that’s La Mer while in Dubai. After time spent exploring, make Masti (800 62784, mastidubai.com) your final destination. Head upstairs to enjoy a couple of brilliantly inventive

Kishmish

cocktails – the mango chutney infused mahar mojito, for one – then go downstairs to enjoy food that’s termed an expression of ‘new India’, best eaten shared to get a taste of menu highlights. Standouts include the tuna bhel tartare, and the burrata and truffle pizza.

For something very different, Kishmish (+971 4 349 6665, kishmish.ae) in Dar Al Wasl mall, Jumeirah, brings Afghan street food to Dubai for the first time. Chef owners Iman, Fatima and Homaira have been family friends for generations, and this restaurant is the realisation of their dream to share the complex aromas and tastes of Afghan food with their adopted city.

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IN THE KNOW

The best burgers SALT Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim find-salt.com Once a mere food truck, now a sort of beach house, Salt's 'original' is served as two 100% wagyu beef sliders, which simply extends the pleasure of eating it.

BURGER FUEL The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, +971 4 445 8220, burgerfuel.com The concept is 100% New Zealand grass-fed beef, 150g of which is chargrilled to perfection and placed within a wholemeal bun.

MOYLO’S Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 4 388 3140, moylosburgers.com A home-grown, hole-in-the-wall joint on Jumeirah Beach Road, where 100% wagyu beef is used in all its homemade burgers.

form of authentic Jamaican dishes.

Hailing from New York, this is the first international Miss Lily’s outpost, and it’s something of a gem. Vibrant, fun and characterful, the self-styled ‘beach shack-meets-Jamaican diner’ boasts a number of must-try dishes including jerk corn grilled with toasted coconut, hot pepper lobster and a brilliant king crab with Scotch bonnet sauce.

Ting Irie (+971 4 557 5601, tingirie. com) at Downtown Boulevard offers up Jamaican staples in a fun atmosphere courtesy of executive chef Craig Wong (of Jamaican-Chinese heritage), whose CV boasts stints at the multi-Michelinstarred Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck.

BAVARIAN BITES Licensed from Munic's Hofbräuhaus, you’ll find Dubai’s outpost inside the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (+971 4 607 7588, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com), where it has built up a loyal crowd over 20 years. They come here for the first rate atmosphere and German staples – the outsized sausage platter will slay any killer appetite.

FOODIE DISTRICT

LA MER This trendy new beachfront destination in Jumeirah has a contemporary mixture of restaurants and cafés, shops and attractions set against a scenic backdrop of sand, sea and sun. There are new eateries cropping up all the time but our favourites include Masti - Cocktails & Cuisine (800 62784, mastidubai.com), which has a bold new India vibe, with flavourful sharing plates by award-winning chef Hari Nayak. For authentic French Mediterranean cuisine, head to all-day-dining concept LEVEE (+971 4 380 2000, leveecafeandlounge. ae) to try the La Mer risotto, which features scallops, tiger prawns, baby squid and bouillabaisse. The venue has a New York loft style vibe, but you can move to the terrace for beachier views.

SMK – that's Smoked Meat Kitchen to you and I – (+971 50 7032915, smk-uae.com) is the area's latest addition, serving meat smoked over English oak topped off with homemade rubs, created by UK smoke master Luke Tully.

Try the signature Brisket Bun, which comes with pickled red chilli, adding a fruity quality.

LEVEE

Ting Irie

38

THE FOOD For a healthy take on German cuisine, Brothaus Bakery-Bistro (+971 4 369 0000, steigenberger.com) at Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay has a tasty menu featuring hearty mains, five different types of sausages and sweet treats like sacher torte.

Bistrot Bagatelle

GOOD GREEK While Dubai is not exactly overflowing with Greek restaurants, it does boast some truly excellent ones. In-the-know locals will point you towards Elia (+971 4 359 8888, dubaimajestic.com), a cosy restaurant with a lovely glass terrace surrounded by greenery in the somewhat incongruous setting of the Majestic Hotel in bustling Bur Dubai.

In the kitchen is Cretan head chef Poppy Kourkoutaki, while charming restaurant manager (and fellow

IN THE KNOW

Dinner with a view… …OF BURJ AL ARAB JUMEIRAH Shimmers, Madinat Jumeirah, +971 4 4323232, jumeirah.com A menu of home-style Mediterranean favourites is ably supported by a casual, toes-in-thesand atmosphere.

...OF BURJ KHALIFA AND THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN Katana, Downtown Dubai, +971 4 277 8808, katana-dubai.com Katana specialises in the robatayaki style of Japanese cuisine. It’s fabulous enough to match the view.

…OF DUBAI MARINA 101 Dining Lounge and Bar One&Only The Palm Dubai, +971 440 1010, thepalm. oneandonlyresorts.com Drink in picture-perfect views while enjoying contemporary European fare from a menu rubber-stamped by super-chef Yannick Alléno.

Crete local) Margianna Mavridou heads up the front-of-house team. The menu is divided into Greek classics – the cheese saganaki and chicken souvlaki are standouts – and more contemporary interpretations such as slow-cooked veal cheeks with eggplant purée. Don’t leave without trying the freshly baked carob bread.

From the same team, Mythos Kouzina & Grill (+971 4 399 8166, mythoskouzina. com) feels like a little slice of Santorini hidden away in JLT’s Armada Bay Hotel.

Kitted out like a traditional seaside taverna with whitewashed walls, rustic furniture and light blue banquettes, the simple menu is a mix of traditional dishes such as keftedakia (meatballs) and grilled calamari, together with home-style favourites like moussaka and gigandes (butter beans).

FABULOUS FRENCH For decades Le Cirque was New York’s go-to spot for A-list celebrities and real

estate tycoons (including a certain Mr Trump). Now at The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Le Cirque (+971 4 372 2444, ritzcarlton) is proving equally popular. The menu, which comes with a hint of Italian inspiraton, contains just the right number of dishes to suggest that each has been honed to perfection – the subsequent taste test confirms it. A superb lobster risotto easily ranks among Dubai's 'musttry' dishes, while soft-as-butter Dover sole and a chocolate soufflé so light it could float from your table are among the notable highlights.

Regardless of the quality of the food they serve up, it’s often difficult for Dubai’s many hotel-run restaurants to shake off that hotel restaurant vibe.

So it’s to places like this we locals go for a hefty side of atmosphere to enjoy with our food at weekends. Let your waiter guide you to the menu highlights at Bistrot Bagatelle (+971 4 354 5035, bagatelledubai.com), which include sharing dishes such as a to-die-for black

39

truffle pizza and spicy lobster linguini.

You’ll find it inside the Fairmont Dubai, on Sheikh Zayed Road.

Offering French Mediterranean fare from Izu Ani (one of city's best chefs) is Carine, at Emirates Golf Club (+971 4 417 9999, carine.ae). This homely spot by the fairways offers up unpretentious but expertly done dishes – think crispy calamari, citrusy tuna carpaccio and fragrant harissa prawns. Be sure to try the homemade plum and apple jam.

FRESH FROM THE OCEAN Catch (+971 4 357 1755, catch.ae) remains one of the hottest tables in town (go after 9pm), with an atmosphere to match. Hailing from NYC, another good reason that this contemporary American seafood restaurant finds favour is, of course, its delicious food.

Eat here and you'll get to sample some stunning dishes, a list headed by the grilled octopus and sofrito. The octopus is marinated in pineapple juice for days

before it's grilled to such a tender state it barely merits cutting. Sensational.

If you’re keen to dine with the feel of sand between your toes, book a table at Fish Beach Taverna (+971 4 511 7139, fishdubai.com). With a rustic Mediterranean feel, this restaurant can be found on the water’s edge at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and is amazingly atmospheric at night.

At Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Geales (+971 4 316 5550, leroyalmeridien-dubai.com), a spin off from the London location, showcases, on ice, a great range of fresh catches backed by a menu of comfort staples – fish & chips, fish pie – and a rather good seafood tagliatelle, that comes laced with plump prawns and chunky cod.

ITALIAN LIKE MAMA MAKES IT JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is home to arguably Dubai’s best Italian – Positano (+971 4 414 3000,

Family-friendly eats

Ask a Top Chef

Candice Walker Chef de Cuisine, Media One

A hidden gem is a little café called Amongst Few (amongstfew.com) in Jumeirah. It’s a very modern concept with a retail and café element integrated in a minimalist space. The breakfasts are amazing and the coffee is among the best in Dubai.

Black Tap

Eating at your hotel can work out expensive, especially if you have a whole family to feed. But fear not: Dubai's restaurants are very family friendly, with myriad options for good value, great quality fare.

WITH LITTLE ONES Ideal for tiny tots is bookstore-slashcafé BookMunch (+971 4 388 4006, bookmunchcafe.com) in Al Wasl Square, which serves tasty treats like blueberry pancakes and stocks plenty of children’s books with a cosy area in which to read them.

Helmed by Tom Aikens, who remains the youngest UK chef to have scooped two Michelin stars, Pots, Pans and Boards (+971 4 456 1959, potspansandboards.ae) is based on Tom's memories of home cooking and his family kitchen – cue shepherd's pie and a divine apple crumble. Plus, there's a cute toddler play area.

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For creative types, Café Ceramique (+971 4 344 7331, cafeceramique.ae) in Town Centre Mall invites kids to paint their own ceramics, while good quality staples like mac and cheese and pizza are served alongside.

WITH BIGGER ONES From NYC comes Black Tap (+971 4 422 9904, jumeirah.com), at Jumeirah Al

Naseem, famed for its burgers and monster milkshakes piled high with toppings like chocolate brownies and cotton candy.

If you don't mind getting your hands dirty, Claw BBQ (+971 4 432 2300, clawbbq.com) in Souk Al Bahar is lots of fun. Arrive early in the evening to enjoy the view of The Dubai Fountain on your way out.

FOODIE DISTRICT

THE BEACH AT JBR A brilliant pedestrianised area mere metres from the sand and sea, The Beach at JBR is the perfect place to head for a good-value feed for your family. Your best bet is to simply stroll the length of it, stopping to peruse the menus at places that catch your eye – there are myriad cuisines to choose from.

The brainchild of Michelinstarred chef Thomas Keller, Bouchon Bakery at The Beach at JBR (+971 4 419 0772) is perfect for a morning pick-me-up. Indulge in sticky sweet pastries and a cup of custom-blended TK by Equator coffee.

If the ocean air puts you in the mood for seafood, crack open a crab at Aprons & Hammers (+971 4 456 7888, apronsandhammers. com). Or, for good licensed options down this way, head to DoubleTree by Hilton. It houses both The MAINE (+971 4 457 6719, themaine.ae) – part American brasserie and part European bistro – serving great seafood, and the always buzzing Ramusake (+971 4 5595 300, ramusake. ae), for modern Japanese.

Matto

jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com).

The restaurant does the full range of Italian staples exceptionally well, so you don't have to look beyond the likes of the pumpkin tortelli in a rich, velvety butter and sage sauce.

A Dubai birthed concept from Italian expats, Matto (+971 444 41335, mattodubai.com) at The Oberoi, Business Bay, indulges its diners in authentic recipes that have been handed down through generations of home cooks.

That means pasta dishes to die for – we can't look beyond the ragù e carciofi (homemade ricotta cheese gnocchi, lamb ragù, and crispy artichokes).

Likewise, you’d expect the Italian restaurant at Palazzo Versace Dubai to be somewhat of a showstopper, and thanks to chef de cuisine Andrea Gaia, that’s exactly what Vanitas (+971 4 556 8820, palazzoversace.ae) is. Gaia’s CV lists many a Michelin-starred restaurant, experience he brings to bear on the menu here.

SUPERB SPANISH

Ramusake

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With an open kitchen, funky murals and baskets hanging from its high ceilings, Salero Tapas & Bodega (+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski Mall of

IN THE KNOW

Sublime steaks PRIME68 JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com The premium beef here is sourced from choice suppliers across the globe and tastes superb, matched by the views from the 68th floor.

STK Rixos Premium Dubai, +971 4 520 0000, togrp.com The Dubai outpost of the worldfamous steak restaurant offers a winning mix of STK classics and dishes created only for Dubai.

JW’S STEAKHOUSE JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, +971 4 607 7977, marriottdiningatjw.ae Something of a Dubai institution, chef Mohammad Iqbal has been in the kitchen for over 20 years and knows each of his (many) regulars’ preferences by heart.

THE FOOD the Emirates looks more hipster eatery than traditional tapas joint. However, the Spanish staff, led by head chef Oscar Leon, ensure the no-nonsense, garlicsmothered tapas are entirely authentic.

There’s a great selection of hot and cold tapas to order, such as Galician-style octopus, along with three types of paella.

LOVELY LATIN AMERICAN There is currently fierce competition in Dubai for the tag of the city’s best Latin American restaurant, and in the thick of it is Waka (+971 4 444 1455, waka. ae) at The Oberoi, Dubai. Here, Chef Roberto Segura dishes up authentic Latin American flavours combined with Bridgewater Tavern

Japanese seasonings and using French techniques. It has some of the best ceviche in the city, but make sure you start with a bowl of Wakamole to share. Their welcome twist is the use of smoked avocado.

While you’ll be right to love Coya (+971 4 316 9600, coyarestaurant.com) at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai on Jumeirah Beach (in particular, its Arroz Nikkei – a mix of Chilean sea bass, rice, lime and chilli – is fabulous), we also have a thing for the more casual Garden (+971 56 224 0956, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. The chef is Peruvian, the staff are great, the vibe relaxed and the food very good value.

IN THE KNOW

Comfort food BRIDGEWATER TAVERN JW Marriott Marquis Dubai +971 4 414 0000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com The go-to place to enjoy high quality, filling fare. The fire-cracker calamari and parmesan truffle fries are willing bedfellows with an ice cold brew.

BUSHMAN’S RESTAURANT & BAR

Bushman’s Restaurant & Bar

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort +971 4 567 8304, dubai-palm.anantara.com Prime slabs of succulent Aussie meat are the norm here. However, to enjoy it you’ll be faced with the near-impossible task of forgoing the classic beef and mushroom pie.

FOODIE DISTRICT

DUBAI DESIGN DISTRICT The stunning Dubai Design District (d3) is home to some of the city’s most cutting edge design and creative firms, as well as The Design Quarter, where visitors will find homegrown restaurant concepts, innovate boutiques and unique art installations.

Concept store meets casual restaurant, The Lighthouse (+971 422 6024, thelighthouse. ae), is headed up by one of Dubai’s best chefs, Izu Ani. The licensed venue has a superb mezze menu – order the marinated salmon with cranberries and baked feta with oregano – if you’re one for sharing. Also licensed here is the quirky (in a good way) Molecule (+971 245 4700, molecule.restaurant), which offers a ‘bistronomy’ (‘bistro’ meets ‘gastronomy’) concept for better-than-bistro-standard food, including a rich risotto with truffle, and Chez Charles Restaurant (+971 512 2444, chezcharlesrestaurant.ae), a modern brasserie which does staples like fish and chips, and carbonara very well.

Molecule

THE LION

Bushman’s Restaurant & Bar

The H Dubai, +971 4 359 2366, hhoteldubai.com Two of the city's top chefs (also of the elsewhere mentioned folly, see 'Made in the UAE, p37) add a touch of class to pub grub staples like the burger, which comes in sourdough topped with veal pancetta.

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Best of the

BRUNCH In the bigger-is-better city of Dubai, the word ‘brunch’ takes on a very different meaning to elsewhere in the world. Here, brunch is not a laid-back midmorning weekend meal to be enjoyed with a friend in a nice café; it is an all-youcan-eat, all-you-can-drink lunchtime feast that involves cuisines from every corner of the globe. A Dubai brunch isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience – and something everyone needs to try at least once during their holiday

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BEST FOR...

Asian flavours What? Brunchzilla at Miss Tess Why? Can't make a weekend brunch? No problem, as Brunchzilla kicks off at 6pm every Wednesday night, with two complimentary drinks for ladies and happy hour deals for guys. The food rolls out from 8pm, and guests can feast on unlimited sushi, bottomless noodles and a spread of desserts. And it wouldn’t be Miss Tess without some first-rate entertainment – expect music, dancers and acrobatics.

When? Wed from 6pm.

Where? Miss Tess, Taj Dubai. +971 50 650 4988.

Cost? From Dhs495 to Dhs695 each, depending on the drinks package.

BEST FOR...

Hungry families What? Festa Italiana at Positano Why? Italian food is always a hit – who doesn't like pizza? So you can be sure that the whole family will find something to sink their teeth into at this popular, familyfriendly brunch. The restaurant, of course, is inspired by the very region it's named after, known for its abundant seafood, meat, fruit and vegetables. The result is some of the best authentic coastal Italian cuisine available in Dubai. Tables are overflowing with delicious fare, such as antipasti and handmade pasta cooked à la minute. Sugar seekers will be thrilled to discover the dedicated dessert room, which is filled to the brim with Italian classics such as panna cotta, gelato, cassata and other sweet bites.

When? Sun from 6pm to midnight.

Where? Positano at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. +971 4 414 3000.

Cost? From Dhs180 to Dhs365 per person, depending on the drinks package. Children aged below 10 dine for free.

THE FOOD

BEST FOR...

A rich experience What? The 1,001 Flavours Brunch at Ewaan Why? For those who want to savour every bite, this sumptuous brunch served in a palatial setting is sure to impress. Ewaan has fantastic views of The Palace Gardens and Burj Khalifa, so you can tick a Dubai landmark off your must-see list. Among the fine fare on offer is fresh Fine de Claire oysters, Omani lobster, and gourmet cheeses.

Plus, you'll find a tasty selection of barbecue food sizzling on the grill.

There are packages that cater to all tastes, too. If you're celebrating a special occasion, the 'luxurious' package will add some sparkle to your get-together, with free-flowing bubbly. And if you're currently on a health-kick, the 'detox' package includes a refreshing selection of drinks rich in antioxidants.

When? Fri from 1pm-4.30pm Where? Palace Downtown. +971 4 888 3444.

Cost? From Dhs345 to Dhs735, per person depending on the package.

BEST FOR...

Fusspots What? Fork & Cork at Crescendo Why? This crowd-pleasing, suits-all brunch invites you to munch your way through seafood, traditional Arabic dishes such as ouzi, fresh noodles and Thai, Japanese and Indian favourites from the live cooking stations. There's bags of entertainment, including live music, henna tattoos and face painting.

When? Fri from 1pm-4pm.

Where? Anantara, The Palm Resort & Spa Dubai, +971 4 567 8304.

Cost? From Dhs365 to Dhs735 each, depending on the drinks package.

BEST FOR...

Sophisticated tastes What? Galvin Dubai’s Brunch Why? If you want to avoid the buffet, take your seat and get set to enjoy this four-course brunch menu served to your table. Carefully crafted by Michelin-starred chef siblings Chris and Jeff Galvin, this brunch invites you to explore the rich flavours of Mediterranean Basin cuisine. First up is a spread of starters designed to be shared, with house delicacies including pressed chicken terrinei with sauce gribiche, burrata, and Sicilian caponata and sourdough.

Main courses are freshly prepared to order, with options including chicken breast with puy lentils, pearl barley and crispy kale, and braised lamb shoulder with a topping of harissa pomme purĂŠe and broccolini. Stay on for the Happy Hour from 6pm-8pm for half price selected drinks.

When? Fri from noon to 4pm.

Where? Galvin Dubai.

Cost? From Dhs325 per person (for the food package and Dhs450 per person with premium drinks.

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Shopping at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

The Shops

There’s no shortage of retail therapy in Dubai, from mega malls to edgy concept stores and traditional souks. The main malls are open until late. The Dubai Mall, for instance, is open from 10am to midnight, every day of the week – enjoy!

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THE SHOPS The Merchant of Venice

MEGA MALLS Supersizing the retail scene since the early noughties, the city’s huge shopping malls invite you to slip on your comfiest sneakers and pound the marbled walkways. With more than 1,300 stores (and counting), The Dubai Mall (800 38 224 6255, thedubaimall. com) is the grande dame of the city’s shopping scene, offering fashion and entertainment in epic proportions.

Its luxury shopping district, Fashion Avenue, has recently been expanded to welcome over 150 shopping and dining experiences to the fold, including Boucheron, AQUAZZURA, Philipp Plein and Casa Loewe, among others, with artworks and eateries dotted around to break up your spree.

For haute beauty buys, Perfumery & Co is the place to go for fine fragrances from the likes of The Merchant of Venice and Henry Jacques. There, you can have a personalised consultation that'll point you towards fragrances,

skincare and make-up to suit your personality and lifestyle.

After restocking your dressing table, click your heels together like Dorothy and transport yourself to Level Shoes to pick out a pair of designer heels before loading up on even more luxury labels at anchor brands Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette Dubai, which has a dedicated glamour area showcasing designer dresses from the likes of Alberta Ferretti, Carolina Herrera, and Jason Wu. There's a profusion of cafés and eateries at which to refuel along the way.

Another power player, Mall of the Emirates (+971 4 409 9000, malloftheemirates.com) has a handsfree shopping service so you can drop off your bulging bags at designated points and have them delivered directly to your hotel. It'll free you up to continue exploring its four floors, anchored by ‘absolutely fabulous’ department store Harvey Nichols – Dubai and the high-end Fashion Dome. Once you're

Level Shoes

Mall of the Emirates

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all shopped out, you can hit the slopes at Ski Dubai, or enjoy a five-star snack menu by Gary Rhodes from the comfort of your reclining seat at the 24-screen Vox Cineplex.

Dubai Creek has its own mega mall experience at Dubai Festival City (800 332, dubaifestivalcitymall.com) where mid-range brands rub shoulders with the Singapore-born department store Robinsons. Here, you’ll find homeware goodies from the UK’s John Lewis and a collection of exclusive fashion labels.

Located on the waterfront with a dedicated promenade, take time out from browsing this mall’s 400 stores for a dhow boat ride or to watch the nightly fire, light and water show.

At the other end of the city, fronting a vibrant waterfront residential area, Dubai Marina Mall (+971 4 348 4848, dubaimarinamall.com) is a no brainer if you’re looking to shop at a more leisurely pace. It's compact compared to the city's larger retail havens, yet is peppered with a trendy selection of high-street brands and a chilled The Outlet Village

48

collection of restaurants, many with outdoor terrace seating ideal for a lingering lunch overlooking the water.

The only themed mega mall in the city, Ibn Battuta Mall (+971 4 362 1900, ibnbattutamall.com) pays architectural homage to the travels of the legendary Arab explorer of the same name with a succession of interlinked spaces reflecting global culture, from China to India. Wander through the dedicated exhibition before letting loose in the 400-plus stores or hitting the lanes of the busy bowling alley.

MINI MALLS Not enough time (or patience) to trawl the jumbo malls? Dubai’s growing community of suburban mini malls will hit the spot. Kick-start your mall crawl opposite Burj Al Arab on Jumeirah Beach Road at the aptly named The Mall (+971 4 348 4848, themall.co.ae), which is home to a coterie of 55 handselected retailers, including French fashion brand Escales, luxury leather brand Native and Suit Express, where

you can get a made-to-measure suit whipped up in just five days.

Further along the road, a stone’s throw from Jumeirah Corniche, is Sunset Mall (+971 4 330 7333, sunsetmall.ae).

Be sure to pay a visit to Rivaage, which plays host to international designers such as Badgley Mischka, Vera Wang and Vivienne Westwood.

With more than 140 stores to explore, the Italian Renaissance themed Mercato Mall (+971 4 344 4161, mercatoshoppingmall.com) is another top stop-off. Label lovers should check out pre-owned designerwear store Bagatelle, while GANT and Charles & Keith are among the high-street stores popular for a fashion fix.

Hugging a corner spot on the adjacent Al Wasl Road is the boutique Galleria Mall (+971 4 344 4434, galleria-mall.ae) at which hip stores, such as trendy Californian beachwear label Beach Bunny and Saucettte (the kidswear offshoot of the hugely successful local brand Sauce), cater to a well-heeled clientele.

THE SHOPS Le BHV Marais

TOP BUY

THE BENNING SATCHEL

AN OPEN-AIR RETAIL AFFAIR A growing number of al fresco shopping spots add character to the retail scene, from plush Europeanstyle boulevards to artisan markets selling handicrafts you can't find anywhere else. At La Mer (800 637 227, lamerdubai.ae), stylish boutiques – think Via Rodeo, Trina Turk and Beach Bunny – rub shoulders with cool cafés along a strip of golden sand just off Jumeirah Beach Road.

Over at Dubai Creek, Al Seef (800 637227, alseef.ae) delivers a cultural vibe with its setting inspired by a traditional Arabian neighbourhood.

There, you can pick up everything from high-end fashion to Emirati handicrafts.

For a more modern feel, City Walk (+971 4 317 3999, citywalk.ae) has a profusion of funky designer-centric boutiques such as Karl Lagerfeld, Michael Kors, and Whistles, among others, as well as upmarket Parisian department store Le BHV Marais.

Nearby on Al Wasl Road, BoxPark (+971 4 317 3999, boxpark.ae) draws a hip crowd to its shipping containers,

housing contemporary fashion from the likes of Urbanist and OnePiece.

At the Dubai Marina end of town, The Beach at JBR (+971 80 063 7227, thebeach.ae) blends boho chic market action with holiday-accessoriesoriented stores, including Sauceon-Sea, bordered by an esplanade packed with family-friendly eateries and attractions.

BARGAIN HUNTERS While the discount store phenomenon hasn’t quite made it to Dubai, there are still bargains to be had. A 30-minute taxi ride out of town, Dubai Outlet Mall (+971 4 423 4666, dubaioutletmall.com) is a repository for previous season style.

Bag an affordable new wardrobe from high-street names like Aldo, Esprit, Monsoon and Mango, with the odd designer find.

If you’re more a fan of Paris Fashion Week than Primark, The Outlet Village (+971 4 317 3999, theoutletvillage. ae) in Jebel Ali is your best bet. Three department stores and more than 125 top brands including Hugo Boss,

Lots of brands release special collections to celebrate Eid Al Adha at the end of August, including MICHAEL Michael Kors' capsule collection for Fall 2018.

The Benning Satchel, crafted from smooth leather, is sure to catch the eye. Dhs1,490.

Available at Michael Kors stores and select department stores across the Middle East.

LOCAL DESIGNER Natasha Variava Founder and designer of the up-and-coming, contemporary prêt label Natasha V, Variava's signature style is luxe fabrics, crisp tailoring and timeless silhouettes. It's a great collection to shop for minimalistic, elegant pieces that will add real value to your wardrobe. natashavlabel.com

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RETOLD

Michael Kors, Juicy Couture and Superdry can be found inside its Tuscan-inspired interior. Stylish piazza cafés add to the Italian vibe.

If you have a soft spot for French fashion, check out the So Chic (sochic. ae) boutique at Home and Soul on Al Wasl Road. Raid the rails bursting with pre-loved designer clothes and accessories sourced from the best wardrobes of Dubai.

Similarly, RETOLD (shopretold.com) on Umm Suqeim Road is brimming with pre-loved steals from Dubai’s labelloving residents.

COOL CONCEPT STORES It’s hardly surprising that, with around 200 nationalities residing in Dubai, international design influences are making their mark on the city with a growing cadre of cool concept stores.

If shopping on the water floats your boat, head to Al Seef where the first ever floating boutique in the region,

50

BEYOUland (beyoulandubai.com), is docked. You'll discover 17 abra inspired boats hosting the creations of local and international brands and artists.

There are also two bricks and mortar BEYOUboutique stores at Dar Al Wasl Mall in Jumeirah (+971 4 333 0373) and at Jumeirah Plaza (+971 4 344 9970, beyoudubai.com) founded by Sheikha Maytha Hasher Al Maktoum and Sheikha Wafa Hasher Al Maktoum, which house more than 100 new and emerging brands such as AWS, Nigwah, Homa Q, and Maysson.

Popular creative hub Dubai Design District (d3), which is dedicated to startups, naturally has its finger on the pulse with d3 Collective (+971 4 554 3540, dubaidesigndistrict.com), a premier platform for established and emerging names, such as Osheq, DRESSADDICT

by Artem & Victor and Taupe.

Equally edgy is O Concept Store (+971 4 345 5557, oconceptstore.ae) in Jumeirah, which combines fashion and

STYLIST ON CALL Kelly Lundberg Need a little help with your shopping while you're here? Call upon award-winning celebrity stylist Lundberg and her team, who can do the hard work for you by shopping for styles that suit you. They know all the best, homegrown designers to pick from. +971 4 455 8475, StyleMeDivine.com

THE SHOPS art and attracts young and passionate designers, artists and collectors from all over the world.

The recently-opened The Edit in Al Wasl (+971 4 332 0324, theeditdubai. com) stocks choice ready-to-wear from cult clothing brands, including Paper London, Acler and AQ/AQ, plus statement jewellery, accessories and beauty products. There's also a fab coffee bar downstairs and pop-ups, and art exhibitions upstairs.

Fashionistas' favourite, United Designers has drawn back the curtain on its revamped store at City Centre Mirdif (+971 4 251 4200, uniteddesigners. ae). Evocative of an Arabian grand bazaar, it houses a gorgeous selection of eveningwear, traditional Moroccan kaftans, jalabiyas and chic daywear, so is ideal if you're seeking a special occasion outfit.

With a flagship store at City Walk II, Bambah (+971 55 224 1538, bambah. com) is the place to go for statement

pieces guaranteed to inject some fun into your wardrobe – think generous ruffles, oversized bows and colourful floral prints. The brainchild of UAE-based designer Maha Abdul Rasheed, it's easy to see why stars such as Emma Roberts are fans.

HOMEGROWN HEROES The region’s young design guns are taking the fashion world by storm and many homegrown Emirati and Middle Eastern brands are thriving. Haute couture luminary Rami Al Ali rules the regional high-end fashion roost from his Al Wasl Road villa (+971 4 394 5607, ramialali.com). A Paris Fashion Week regular who is known for his ultra-feminine gowns, you can book a personal consultation at his atelier or check out his ready-to-wear line at Harvey Nichols – Dubai.

Another respected designer, Furne One launched his avant garde label Amato Couture in the UAE in 2002 and

LOCAL LABEL

THE ORPHIC Sisters Mariam and Amna AlMualla, from Umm Al Quwain, launched The Orphic as an accessible, luxury fashion brand for modest dressers in search of showstopping outfits.

Dramatic silhouettes, near-theatrical lines, neutral colours and distinctive textures are the hallmarks. @ _theorphic

IN-MALL EATERIES

Pause for a bite to eat CAFÉ BATEEL, MALL OF THE EMIRATES

BUTCHA STEAKHOUSE & GRILL, THE BEACH AND CITYWALK

ZAATAR W ZEIT, THE DUBAI MALL

Loved for its gourmet Mediterranean cuisine, Café Bateel has opened a new location at Mall of the Emirates.

Located on the Ground Floor, opposite H&M, it's perfect for a midtrip pick-me-up, with lots of healthy options such as the new Bateel Poke Bowl with chicken zaatar or marinated prawns. bateel.com

Tasty, great quality meat is prepared and cooked only by fire and grill at this lively venue. During The Hunting Hour (4pm-6pm), the restaurant serves a mix-and-match selection of its signature dishes – think lokum-style tenderloin, merguez sausage, chargrilled kofta, and spaghetti-style Australian striploin – from just Dhs8. butcha.com

For delicious Lebanese street food, this colourful and cosy restaurant is hard to beat. Having recently opened a new outlet at Mira Town Centre, and re-opened another at The Dubai Mall, its halloumi sticks, shawarma wraps and super healthy quinoa tabbouleh salads are never far away. zaatarwzeit.net

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The Bombay Shirt Company

INGIE Paris

receiving the nod of approval by actress Sofia Vergara, among others.

Make a beeline for her latest collection, which is available at Symphony in The Dubai Mall (+971 4 310 6904, bysymphony.com).

Nathalie Trad (+971 50 4834 202, nathalietrad.com) is another one to watch. Born in Beirut and raised in Dubai, this innovative designer, who was mentored by Proenza Schouler, creates innovating, sculptural, wearable works of art. You can find her pieces at Bloomingdale's at The Dubai Mall.

BESPOKE BUYS

FAUX FUR TREND Tzarina By Ollia If you're on the hunt for some colourful faux fur, then check out Tzarina by Ollia

by Dubai-based fashion designer Ollia Tzarina. Her creations have been worn

by A-listers, such as Jennifer Lopez, Rita Ora, Ciara, Christina Aguilera, and Ariana Grande. The brand headquarters is in Business Bay, and you can find the main showroom just two minutes' from Armani Hotel Dubai. tzarinabyollia.com

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has an A-list following, including Heidi Klum, Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez, among others. You can shop the standalone Amato Luxe boutique located at Dubai Design District (+971 4 443 2449, amatoluxe.com) – think floral-inspired bomber jackets, billowing dresses and ethereal sweeping lace jackets in a pastel palette.

The local branch of French fashion institute, Esmod Dubai, is responsible for a wave of fresh graduate talent and you'll be pleased to learn that it has its own dedicated retail outlet, Pôlette Concept Store (+971 50 879 6518), at City Walk. It's the only retail start-up platform in the world to launch university students’ fashion brands, and to stock pieces from celebrated alumni, such as Canella Hostal, so shopping there is a little like picking up the wearable version of a future Picasso.

More homegrown talent is in favour with the A-list, with bold designs by Dubai-based Madiyah Al Sharqi

Few of us can afford a trip to Savile Row and Dubai’s community of nimblefingered tailors and seamstresses is a great alternative. Local fabric stores are in abundance and you can have a made-to-measure suit or dress whipped up in just a few days. The traditional go-to areas for sharp tailoring include Karama, where Dream Girls (+971 4 337 7287) is a long-standing favourite among ladies who lunch.

Boutique bespoke tailors are also on hand for special occasion glam.

Scissors Tailoring Studio (+971 50 961 7959) at Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah specialises in custom clothing and alterations for women.

Alternatively, you can follow in the footsteps of tennis legend Roger Federer, who has had an outfit whipped up by the master tailoring team at Threads & Tailors (+971 4 347 7719, threadsandtailors.com) in Al Barsha, which specialises in made-to-measure suits and shirts at reasonable prices.

New kid on the block, Black Amber Dubai (+971 4 4429315, black-amber. com), in Dubailand, promises top-notch tailoring for gentlemen, plus ready-towear clothing under one roof.

Lastly, custom-shirt store Bombay Shirt Company, in Central Park Towers, DIFC (+971 4 240 0778, bombayshirts.com) lets you select every detail, from the fabric to the thread and the buttons, with precise measurements taken to ensure a perfect fit.

THE SHOPS

SOUK SPECTACULAR

NEW LAUNCH

I'LL WRITE YOU LETTERS Made in Dubai, I’ll Write You Letters is an urban fashion brand inspired

by Asian streetwear. The collection, influenced by the music and art movements of the US and Europe, features unisex tee-shirts, sweaters, polo shirts and caps in a variety of colours and designs. The Varsity-style sweaters suit all. illwriteyouletters.com

The emirate is famous for its atmospheric souks, which are a treasure trove for everything from gold jewellery to aromatic spices. Put your bargaining skills to the test (it’s the done thing) at the glittering Dubai Gold Souk on the Deira side of Dubai Creek. A hub for gold traders since the 1930s, its 300 or so shops are thronged by tourists seeking a gilded buy (Arabic name necklaces are a popular choice). It's easy to arrive by taxi, but if you really want to ‘go local’, hop aboard a motorised abra at Bur Dubai Abra Station and set sail for Deira Old Souk Abra Station (operating from 6am to midnight, Dhs1 per person per trip, see rta.ae).

Close by, the blink and you’ll miss it Spice Souk is home to a fragrant clutch of market stalls fronted by hessian sacks overflowing with aromatic spices.

Stock up on the best Iranian saffron, the Emirati spice mix bezar, as well as pungent dried local lemons to add a

citrusy note to a stew or tagine. For a fragrant buy of a different kind, head to the Perfume Souk, which is great for getting your hands on the traditional Arabian scent, oud, as well as potent essential oils.

Dubai Textile Souk, back on the opposite bank of Dubai Creek, is a fabric nirvana for shoppers with an eye on bespoke tailoring. The colourful souk has everything from swathes of sari silk to bolts of embroidered cotton.

For a more polished experience, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah (+971 4 366 8888, jumeirah.com), which has been designed in the style of an authentic Arabian marketplace, and explore the labyrinthine lanes lined with barrows and stalls selling souvenirs, jewellery, oud and other trinkets.

Similarly, Souk Al Bahar (+971 4 362 7011/12, soukalbahar.ae) in Downtown Dubai has over 100 shops offering everything from carpets to handicrafts, jewellery, art and perfume.

Amato Luxe

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Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The Activities

Sleep is overrated. With all that Dubai has to offer, we say see and do as much as you can during your stay and save those zzz’s for the flight home 54

THE ACTIVITIES The Dubai Fountain rises from the lake, in front of Address Downtown

FEEL ON TOP OF THE WORLD No prizes for guessing what is Dubai’s number one visitor attraction. At 456 metres above sea level, the observation decks at the world’s tallest tower, At the Top, Burj Khalifa may not invite you all the way to the tip – that would be the radio mast at 828 metres – but they’re high enough to give you a head rush. Step inside the high-speed elevator and be transported in the blink of an eye to the entry point on Level 124, where you can zoom in on the world below through high-powered telescopes, before moving up another level for panoramic views of the everdeveloping city. At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY ticket holders can climb further towards the clouds to Level 148, home to the world’s highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace (it's 555 metres

high, in case you were wondering).

At the Top opens from 9am and At the Top SKY opens from 9:30am. Advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabianadventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls.

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

ALL THE FUN OF THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN Lights, camera, action… Now just add water. The world's tallest performing fountain, The Dubai Fountain is the definitive crowd-pleaser. It has thousands of robotic jets hidden beneath the 30-acre Burj Khalifa lake, which shoot water 500 feet into the air – the equivalent of a 50-storey building – while colour projectors work their magic. The mesmerising performances are set to a rotating musical repertoire featuring the recorded likes of Andrea Bocelli and Lionel Richie, as well as Arabic and world music. Whether you’re seeing it for the first or the 50th

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

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time, it’s sure to give you goosebumps.

Shows take place daily from 1pm1.30pm (1.30pm-2pm on Fri.) and every 30 minutes from 6pm to midnight.

Plump for a prime viewing spot from a lakeside restaurant table or catch it for free from the Waterfront Promenade.

Those after a premium view can step onto the floating The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk for a stroll past all the action – you’ll be just nine metres away from the jets at its closest point. Open from 5pm-11pm daily. Alternatively, you can set sail on the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride for the ultimate view from an abra.

Operating daily from 5.45pm-11.30pm (the last boat departs half an hour prior to closing). Visit burjkhalifa.ae.

For fountain fun on a smaller scale, the IMAGINE light, water and pyrotechnics spectacular at Dubai

Festival City is sure to delight. Giant aqua screens, surround sound, lasers and the largest water screen projection in the world combine with 30 fountains to create a breathtaking display.

Showing daily from 7.30pm-11pm.

DELVE INTO HISTORY Peel back the shiny sweetie wrapper that defines modern-day Dubai and discover the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Step back in time with a visit to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (+971 4 353 9090, dubaiculture.gov.ae) on the bank of Dubai Creek. In the early 1900s the area was populated by affluent merchants and traders and bordered by Al Fahidi Fort, which now houses Dubai Museum. Its collection of beautifully preserved traditional wind tower homes have evolved into

ASK A LOCAL Saad Umerani, co-founder of Protein Bakeshop proteinbakeshop.com I would definitely recommend taking guests to MusicHall at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. It’s a lounge set up like a theatre, with live Arabic singing and performances – it has a fantastic vibe!

Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort

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THE ACTIVITIES

TOP PICK

Al Seef Everyone's loving this picturesque 1.8-kilometrelong waterfront promenade that transports you to the very heart of the city – Dubai Creek – where local fishermen, pearl-divers, weavers and tradesmen once came to ply their wares. Make your way

along the lively sikkas and alleyways filled with shops, cafés and restaurants and discover the two contemporary heritage areas while soaking up the atmosphere. Located close to Al Fahidi Historical District, Al Seef is also home to a marina with 56 berths for private yachts, a traditional

souk, floating markets and an events plaza, which hosts a packed calendar of activities along the water’s edge. There are three hotels in the area, including Zabeel House by Jumeirah Al Seef, which has a fantastic rooftop swimming pool and bar with sweeping views of old and new Dubai. alseef.ae 57

museums, art galleries and cultural spaces connected by a maze of winding alleyways and quiet courtyards.

Over in Jumeirah, Etihad Museum (etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.ae) offers a review of contemporary history by telling the story of the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971 through a compelling curation of photographs, films, documents, artefacts and interactive displays. Located next to Union House, the striking structure resembles a manuscript, with seven tapering columns representing the pens used to sign the unification agreement.

Open daily from 8am-10pm. Dhs25 for adults, Dhs10 for students and free for children under five.

At Dubai Frame (dubaiframe.ae) in Zabeel Park, you’ll be guided through a multimedia exhibition charting the city’s rapid transformation from fishing village to modern metropolis, before scaling the 150-metre-high observation deck, and then exiting via a swirl tunnel depicting the future of the city. Open daily from 9am-9pm. Dhs50 for adults and Dhs20 for children (aged 3-12).

Under threes go free.

Dubai also has a thriving art scene that runs the full gamut of styles and influences. Hip art hub Alserkal Avenue (+971 50 556 9797, alserkalavenue.ae), in Al Quoz, comprises more than 60 art, design and creative spaces, including galleries The Third Line (+971 4 341 1367, thethirdline.com) and Gulf Photo Plus (+971 4 380 8545, gulfphotoplus.com).

Street art initiatives are also adding new creative impetus to the city’s public spaces. Check out the Dubai Walls project (dubaiwalls.com) at City Walk where the work of 16 renowned artists including Ron English, Nick Walker and Blek Le Rat take pride of place. Similarly, the Dubai Street Museum project on 2nd December Street in Satwa draws on themes from the UAE’s history and heritage for an eye-catching stroll.

BE A CULTURE VULTURE For a high-brow evening out, it doesn’t get much more glamorous than

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Dubai Opera

tickets to Dubai Opera (+971 4 440 8888, dubaiopera.com), which offers an impressive line-up of local and international operatic, ballet and musical productions. The building itself is an architectural wonder with its dhowshaped design by Janus Rostock a stylish tribute to Dubai’s maritime history.

Another must-see is the emirate’s first in-residence show, La Perle by Dragone (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com), which is staged inside a purpose-built, state-of-

the-art aqua theatre in Al Habtoor City.

The performance is awash with aerial feats and cutting-edge technology – it's the only place in Dubai where it rains indoors. Performances take place at 7pm and 9.30pm Tue to Fri, and at 4pm and 7pm on Sat. From Dhs252 until the end of September.

SPLASH AROUND Belly flops and swan dives are par for the course at Dubai’s gold standard water parks, with fun for water babies

THE ACTIVITIES

ASK A LOCAL Sarah Jones, founder and CEO of Sprii.com I live just opposite The Dubai Fountain, so I usually take guests to my favourite restaurant, Loca, which overlooks this iconic attraction. The best tune it performs to is Michael Jackson's Thriller – it’s a lot of fun, and a Dubai bucket list moment.

of all ages. The latest on the scene is Laguna Waterpark at La Mer (800 637 227, lagunawaterpark.com), which has four different zones – Splash, Slide, Surf and Relax – and all manner of hair-raising rides to hurl yourself down.

The central Water Slide Tower is at the heart of the action, with cool features including five rides, plus a family zone, lazy river, and pool lounge with swim-up juice bar. The star attraction, however, is the WaveOz 180 Florider – the first of its kind in the GCC – where you can tackle the competition wave on a body board or stand-up board. Open daily from 10am-8pm. Tickets cost from Dhs125 on the door.

Located in front of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Wild Wadi Water Park (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) was first on the scene, however, and it remains a popular choice today, with over 30 rides and attractions. From kid-friendly

slides and the relaxing lazy river to the truly terrifying Jumeirah Sceirah (which propels you to speeds of 80 km/h), it’s wet and wild all the way.

Summer opening hours (until the end of September) are from 10am-7pm Sun to Wed, 10am-6pm on Thur, 10am-10pm on Fri and 10am-8pm on Sat. Over on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure Waterpark (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai delivers 17 hectares of H2O action. Dare to make the dramatic descent that is the Leap of Faith, jump in a two-person inner tube and journey through the Tower of Neptune to a shark-filled lagoon, or relax in a private, poolside cabana.

Open daily from 10am to sunset.

In Jebel Ali, Legoland Water Park (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) at Dubai Parks Wild Wadi Water Park

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Barasti pool

and Resorts is designed especially for families with kids aged two to 12. Slide, splash and swim through 15 Legoinspired water slides, raft rides and pools.

You can even construct your own Lego raft to help you on your way. Summer opening hours are 10am-6pm daily.

For something on a smaller scale, head to JBR where you can find AquaFun (aquafun.ae) outdoor inflatable water park, which challenges you to run, jump and slide your way past 74 games without falling off. Open daily from 9am-7pm. Tickets cost from Dhs150, or Dhs120 for children.

BEACH AND POOL ACTION Want to feel the sand between your toes? If you’re not staying on the beach, or simply fancy a change of scenery,

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there are plenty of places to head to.

The emirate's newest stretch of beach, La Mer (meraas.ae) in Jumeirah 1, features more than 130 shops, cafés and restaurants flanked by 2.5 kilometres of sandy coastline. Paddle by the shore before grabbing a bite at one of the numerous licensed eateries.

Kite Beach (kitebeach.ae) at the Umm Suqeim end of Jumeirah Beach Road is a firm favourite among the kite-surfing fraternity (lessons available), with a community vibe centred around a clutch of on-trend cafés and family-friendly facilities, such as XDubai Skatepark and XPark Jr. adventure park.

For a dash of glamour, The Beach at JBR (+971 800 637 227, thebeach.ae) is sure to appeal, with its meandering walkway bisecting a profusion of cafés,

restaurants and shops and a stunning stretch of sand with a premier view of the under-construction Ain Dubai Ferris wheel located on the upcoming Bluewaters Island development.

For a clubby vibe, Azure Beach at Rixos Premium Dubai +971 4 342 1924, azure-beach.com) has a Mediterranean influence, with poolside cabanas and giant inflatables to mess around on.

Open daily from 10am, with entry from Dhs300 on weekdays and Dhs400 at the weekend (you’ll get a Dhs200 voucher to spend on food and drink).

More fun can be had at Barasti at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina (+971 4 318 1313, barastibeach. com), which has a watersports centre.

Open from 10am Sun to Thur and from 9am on Fri and Sat. Entry is free.

HIT THE TRACK

Supercars are a common sight in Dubai – even the police force has a Bugatti Veyron and a Lamborghini Aventador, among other cars, in its fleet – and motoring fans will be pleased to learn that you can do more than snap a selfie next to these gleaming vehicles. At Dubai Autodrome (+971 4 806 2220, dubaiautodrome.com) you can slip behind the wheel of a Ferrari 458 Challenge, Formula DXB single seater or Audi R8 V10, among other supercars. Track experiences combine classroom and behind-the-wheel training from a professional racing driver, before you’re let loose to do a few laps on your own.

The complex is also home to Dubai Kartdrome, which has an indoor and outdoor circuit suitable for kids aged seven and above. The 1.2-kilometre-long outdoor circuit is designed for more confident drivers who can definitely test their mettle on its challenging 17 corners, tunnel and bridge and take on fierce competition. Simply arrive and drive.

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RIDE THE WAVES Watersports fans are spoilt for choice in the UAE. Get out on the deep blue and enjoy the best views of the skyline on a jet-ski tour. Jet Ski Sightseeing Tours (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com) invite you to follow your guide on a safe, set route across the warm Arabian waters on the latest Sea-Doo jet-skis either as a driver or a passenger – you can take turns with a friend (each jet-ski can accommodate two people). A Go-Pro camera can be rented and fitted to your jet-ski for an additional cost.

Or, dip your toes into the maritime lifestyle at WaterCooled Dubai (+971 4 814 5555) at JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel, which offers everything from wakeboarding to kitesurfing, dinghy sailing and kayaking, led by a team of Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Royal Yachting Association accredited instructors. From Dhs75 per person for kayaking and SUP.

MEET THE MARINE LIFE Dunk your head beneath the surface to discover more cool attractions.

Home to over 65,000 marine animals, The Lost Chambers Aquarium (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai will enchant visitors of all ages. It has over 20 themed exhibits housing marine creatures from all over the world. Book a behind-the-scenes tour or be brave and dive with sharks. Open daily from 10am-10pm.

Besides its retail pull, The Dubai Mall is home to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (advance booking +971 4 303

THE ACTIVITIES Ski Dubai

4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls), one of the largest suspended aquariums on the planet. Marvel at more than 70 different marine species including some 300 sharks and rays, or rent some scuba gear and sidle up alongside the inhabitants of the 10-million-litre tank (no diving experience required). Meanwhile, the zoo offers a sneak peek at the habits of other water-loving creatures, such as penguins and giant spider crabs; but the star of the show is the mean-looking 750kg King Croc. Open daily from 10am to midnight.

Conservation is the buzzword at the turtle lagoon at Jumeirah Al Naseem (+971 4 366 8888, jumeirah.com), home to the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project, which is run in collaboration with Emirates Wildlife Society. To date,

the project has seen the release of over 560 rescued sea turtles back into Dubai’s waters and it's here that they're nursed back to health. Open daily, with 20-minute feeding sessions taking place at 11am on Wed.

EXPERIENCE SNOW AND ICE Where else but Dubai can you stroll along the beach in the morning and go skiing on real snow in the afternoon? A winter wonderland in the middle of the desert, Ski Dubai (advance booking via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at Mall of the Emirates boasts the world’s first indoor black run, a waddle of people-friendly penguins and is the de facto destination for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing.

Don’t fret if you haven’t packed your

salopettes, as you can hire clothing and equipment on-site. Plus, you can watch the free penguin parade between 2pm and 8pm daily. Open from 10am-11pm Sun to Wed, 10am to midnight on Thur, 9am to midnight on Fri and 9am-11pm on Sat. An Olympic-sized rink, Dubai Ice Rink (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at The Dubai Mall is the perfect spot to cool off with public sessions for beginner and intermediate skaters. Catch a snowflake on your tongue at one of the regular snowfall sessions, with Penguin Pal skating aids available for little ones (minimum one metre tall) and Snowmen for wobbly adults or kids 12 years or above. Plus, you can have a cycling showdown with friends on the IceBykes –

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they're like tricycles that glide across the ice – which get rolled out for evening fun. Check for session timings.

SWING INTO ACTION Most of the world’s golfing greats have teed off onto Dubai’s flawless fairways and the emirate is recognised as a major golf destination. The first all-grass championship golf course in the Middle East when it opened in 1988, Emirates Golf Club (+971 4 380 1234, dubaigolf. com) remains a firm favourite among Dubai old timers and club-toting visitors.

Annual host of the European Tour’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic, it has two 18-hole par 72 championship courses and an iconic clubhouse inspired by the shape of a traditional Bedouin tent.

The Majlis course has open horizons and stretches of sand, along with more traditional bunkers, while the 2005 Nick Faldo-redesigned course has a wadi (valley) running through it. The Faldo is also the only 18-hole course in the region to offer night golf. Summer green fees end on 15 September and thereafter will be priced at Dhs905 for 18 holes on the Majlis course and from Dhs675 for 9 holes on the Faldo course (weekdays).

The first tee time is at 6.45am and bookings run until 2pm on the Majlis course and 9.55pm on the Faldo course (depending on the schedule of tournaments).

Swanky residential community and golf club Jumeirah Golf Estates (+971 4 818 2000, jumeirahgolfestates.com) has a duo of Greg Norman-designed championship courses, Fire and Earth, inspired by the great parkland courses of Europe and North America. The Earth course is home to the annual DP World Tour Championship, the grand finale of the European Tour’s 47-tournament Race to Dubai. Tee times run from 7am-1.50pm (18-holes), while 9 holes is only available from 2pm onwards. Green fees vary depending on time date.

At the Peter Harradine designed The Track, Meydan Golf (+971 4 381 3733, meydangolf.com) you can enjoy unlimited play during September by

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purchasing a Wildcard (from Dhs1,600 for one month). Valid seven days a week, you can play by day or night and those with friends and family in town will be pleased to learn that the unnamed card is fully transferable. Play starts at sunrise until 8.50pm daily, with the floodlit play until 11pm.

GET A FALCON’S EYE VIEW A sure way to make the folks back home green with envy is to tick skydiving off the bucket list. At Skydive Dubai (skydivedubai.ae) you can leap out of an aeroplane, tethered to a professional,

BE PAMPERED

for a tandem skydiving experience over Palm Jumeirah (Dhs2,199). It’s the best vantage point from which to see the scale of the fronded island – unless you’ve got your eyes closed. The manifest window opens at 10am, with the first planeload typically an hour later (weather permitting). Its Desert Campus drop zone is re-opening on 26 September.

Seawings (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) offers scenic flights, including the Dubai Creek Silver tour, a 40-minute ‘dock to dock’ seaplane excursion over Dubai Saray Spa

SARAY SPA Unwind at this pampering haven at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, which is famous for its luxuriously soothing rituals that pay homage to the spa's Arabian heritage. Treatments incorporate locally-sourced, natural ingredients wherever possible.

Book yourself in for a bespoke holistic therapy. +971 4 414 6754, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

ANANTARA SPA Fusing contemporary treatments with age-old pampering, it's easy to unwind in this plush spa at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. Detox with a traditional Turkish hammam, or head inside the holistic cocoon room for a renewing treatment. +971 4 567 8140, anantara.com

Anantara Spa

SATORI SPA Inspired by the desert, Satori Spa at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa has an indulging line-up of signature treatments, with exotic ingredients that'll take you on a soothing journey. We recommend you book a private cabana for a relaxing massage with a view of the desert. +971 4 809 6232, babalshams.com

Satori Spa

THE ACTIVITIES Camp Viking, Motiongate Dubai

Creek, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and more. Timings depend on the tour you select.

Or, take a helicopter ride (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabianadventures.com) for a bird's eye view of the iconic landmarks and make the most of the incredible photo opportunities along the way.

Private charter flights are available upon request.

If you haven’t the stomach for it, iFly Dubai (+971 4 231 6292, theplaymania. com) offers an exhilarating flying experience in its indoor wind tunnel.

Open from noon to 10pm Sun to Wed, noon to 11pm on Thur, and 10am-11pm on Fri and Sat.

THEME PARK THRILLS Thrill-seekers, screamers and scaredycats can get their air-conditioned theme park kicks at IMG Worlds of Adventure (advance bookings via +971 4 303

4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls), the world’s largest indoor park, which has 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 seriously bone-chilling Haunted Hotel.

Open from 11am-10pm Sun to Wed, and 11am-11pm Thur to Sat. Next up, Dubai Parks and Resorts (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) in Jebel Ali has an impressive roster of rides spread across three theme parks and a water park. Wet and wild fun of the tot-friendly variety is mandatory at Legoland Water Park (see Splash Around on page 59-60).

Once you’ve dried off, explore the six themed lands at Legoland Dubai, home to 40 rides, shows and attractions, and 15,000 scale Lego models.

IN THE KNOW

A flying visit Zip lining is all the rage in the UAE right now, with a number of new drop zones cropping up across the Emirates. Brave souls can try it firsthand at XLine Dubai Marina, which will whizz you over land and water at speeds of up to 80km/h. From the take-off point at Amwaj Towers, 170 metres above the water, you'll descend over the marina down to ground level at Dubai Marina Mall. You can go solo (Dhs650), or rope in a friend for a double drop (Dhs1,200). Open daily from 9am5pm. Bear in mind that you must be aged from 12 to 65 years old, taller than 130cm, weigh between 50-100kg, and be in good medical health in order to take part. +971 4 457 3212, xdubai.com/xline

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Alserkal Avenue

VR Park

Fans of the Hindi film scene can get their Shah Rukh Khan on at Bollywood Parks Dubai, with a host of rides and attractions inspired by nine all-singing and dancing Bollywood films, complete with 30 colourful live shows a day.

Or, sit down and strap yourself in for the ride of a lifetime at Motiongate Dubai, with rollercoasters, multimedia ‘dark rides’ and live shows based on blockbuster film characters including Ghostbusters, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, The Hunger Games and The Smurfs, who even have their own village. Fear factor alert: not all rides are suitable for tender young minds – or adults of a nervous disposition – so check before you ride.

Motiongate and Bollywood are open daily from 3pm to 11pm until the end of the month. Legoland is open from noon to 8pm Sat to Wed, and noon to 9pm Thur and Fri.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS As we wave goodbye to summer (and the sweltering temperatures), there are plenty of ways to get back to nature.

Escape the city and head to Al Maha,

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A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa (+971 4 832 9900, al-maha.com) located in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which offers a number of great day packages. The Equestrian Package (Dhs1,350 per person) includes two 60-minute horse riding sessions, all-day access to the main swimming pool and spa facilities and a yummy lunch.

Tucked away in Al Barsha South is Dubai Butterfly Garden (+971 4 422 8902, dubaibutterflygarden.com), which is home to thousands of species of butterfly housed in temperature-controlled domes.

Stroll through their habitat as the insects flutter around you. Open daily from 9am6pm. Dhs55 (free for those aged two and under).

The Yard (theyarddubai.ae), in the up-and-coming Al Khawaneej area, is the place to go for some tasty bites from the food trucks at Last Exit D89 and to stroll along the shaded walking trails.

Throw a coin in the wishing well, check out the street art and let the little ones pet the farm animals. Romantics can write a message on a padlock and fix it to the railings of Promise Bridge.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN New to the family-centric collection of activities in and around the popular Kite Beach strip is XPark Jr. (+971 4 328 4175, xparkjr.com), 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. Dhs45 per child (for two hours, with one with accompanying entering for free). Open from 8am-6pm Sat to Wed and 8am8pm Thur and Fri. You can step into a tropical jungle at The Green Planet (advance bookings +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. com). Located at City Walk, the fivelevel glass bio-dome recreates the ecosystem of a tropical forest, with over 3,000 plants and animals and the world’s largest indoor man-made tree. As you descend from the top of the dome via a winding path, you’ll encounter exotic animals along

Timings may be subject to change during public holidays.

THE ACTIVITIES the way, such as toucans, macaws, porcupines and even a sloth. From Dhs89. Open daily 10am-7pm Sun to Wed and 10am-8pm Thur to Sat. The kids will be bouncing off the walls at the region’s biggest trampoline and entertainment park, Bounce (+971 4 321 1400, bounce.ae), which has more than 80 interconnected trampolines to jump around on, as well as a free running arena, and the awesome X-Park Adventure Challenge Course with a zip line, bouldering wall and sea of pipes for nimble feet to navigate. From Dhs75.

Open from 10am-10pm Sun to Wed, 10am to midnight Thur, 9am to midnight Fri and 9am-9pm on Sat. Get them thinking about their career choices early at edutainment centre KidZania (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at major malls) at The Dubai Mall. There, little ones can try their hand at 80 different jobs, from Emirates A380 pilot (there’s even a simulator) to chef. Open from 10am-10pm on weekdays and 10am11pm at weekends.

For a smart play experience, OliOli in Al Quoz (+971 4 432 3232, olioli.ae) curates content from the best children’s museums, science centres and art studios in North America, Asia and Europe. Kids take part in hands-on activities designed to nurture curiosity, imagination and exploration, with eight galleries spread over two floors.

A standout feature is the region's first textile playground by artist Toshiko MacAdam – a large-scale structure made from brightly-coloured crocheted and knotted nylon. Children's entry costs from Dhs60 (ages 12-23 months) to Dhs120 (2-18 years) for two hours (free for those aged up to 11 months). Dhs40 for accompanying adults. Open from 9am-7pm Sun to Wed and on Sat, and 9am-9pm Thur and Fri. Hi-tech kiddie attractions are also at the fore. Augmented reality and virtual reality theme park VR Park (vrparkdubai.com) at The Dubai Mall will see you whizzing down the side of

Burj Khalifa like a stunt double, skydiving like a pro and having close encounters with creepy crawlies in the desert. The two-storey venue is packed with games, rides and experiences to suit all ages.

Entry is free, just purchase a pass to play.

You can experience what it's like to be at the centre of an elephant herd or in the deepest ocean depths at Orbi Dubai at City Centre Mirdif (theplaymania.com). The first Orbi outside of Japan, it fuses nature content by BBC Earth with cutting-edge technology by SEGA to immerse you in the natural world via a multisensory experience. Dhs65 (ages 3-10), Dhs85 (10 years+), and free for under-threes.

Open from 10am-10pm Sun to Wed and 10am to midnight Thur to Sat.

IN THE KNOW

A cultural breakfast Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), +971 4 353 6666, cultures.ae Start the day on a positive note by sitting down to a traditional Emirati breakfast inside SMCCU's ambient wind tower house in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Tuck into delicious, authentic fare while taking the chance to chat with your Emirati host about UAE culture, customs and religion. Breakfast is hosted every Monday and Wednesday at 10am.

Dhs120 per person.

Bounce

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Garden on 8

The Nightlife

Evenings out are packed full of fun, with Thursday and Friday nights usually the busiest. The legal age to drink alcohol in Dubai (and enter a nightclub) is 21, so if you're blessed with youthful looks, be sure to bring your ID. We’ve included taxi references to help you find your way 68

THE NIGHTLIFE Treehouse

SCENIC FOR SUNDOWNERS As the sun dips below the horizon, unwind with a drink in hand at these venues with a view. For spectacular vistas of Madinat Jumeirah, head to Bahri Bar (taxi: Jumeirah Mina A'Salam, +971 4 432 3232), where you can reflect on the day while sipping drinks to a smooth jazz soundtrack. Open from 4pm-2am, Sat to Wed and 4pm-3am Thur and Fri. Farther along the waterway is folly

by Nick & Scott (taxi: Souk Madinat Jumeirah, +971 4 430 8535), which has two outdoor terrace bars popular among the city’s social set. Perhaps the most Instagrammed drink is the Folly Pop, a raspberry ice-lolly dipped in Prosecco, but the biodynamic wines are equally good.

The bar is open daily from noon until late.

Another prime spot is Observatory Bar & Grill (taxi: Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, +971 4 319 4000).

Located on the 52nd floor, you can

gaze down upon the twinkling lights of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. The bar is open daily from noon to 1am.

Moving downtown, Treehouse (taxi: Taj Dubai, +971 4 438 3100) is known for its views of the city skyline towards Burj Khalifa. Make yourself comfortable as, after dark, this trendy open-air lounge comes to life with 'light deep' house music spun by resident DJ Taylor. Open from 7pm-2am on weekdays and 7pm-3am at weekends.

Over in modern City Walk, LookUp (taxi: La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK, Dubai, Autograph Collection, +971 54 309 5948) is the place to go for beautiful sunset views beside a glistening infinity pool, with Happy Hour drinks from Dhs30. Daily from 6pm-8pm.

Bahri Bar

Folly by Nick & Scott

OH WHAT A NIGHT Ladies' nights are a 'thing' in the Emirates and Dubai is dame crazy when it comes to free beverages for womankind. The Noite das Damas ladies’ night Fogo de Chão (taxi: Central Park Towers, DIFC,

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Vault

+971 4 343 8867) offers a 50% discount on its Brazilian Churassco experience, along with three complimentary drinks from the master mixologist or sommelier. Every Wed from 7pm.

Put your posh frock on for Nobu Noir at Nobu (taxi: Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, +971 4 426 2626), which whips up delicious cocktails and must-try tapas, with women receiving three free drinks. Mon from 8:30pm-11pm.

Hang with Dubai’s media crowd at SHE3 at Qwerty (taxi: Media One Hotel, +971 4 427 1000), where you can get your freshly manicured hands on three free drinks and half price food. Plus, there’s the chance to win prizes for the best dressed. From 6pm-10pm every Tue.

ONE FOR THE BOYS Gents can bond over the male equivalent of a girls’ night out thanks to these dedicated evenings. Saturdays are reserved for guys at Vault (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 4 414

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3000) with a complimentary drink upon arrival and special offers available throughout the evening. This buzzy bar is perched high up on the hotel’s 71st and 72nd floors and has an impressive selection of cigars. From 8pm-11pm.

Alternatively, get the boys together for a red meat feast washed down with hops at Manzil Downtown’s Men’s Night, (taxi: Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, +971 4 888 3444), which offers three selected drinks plus food for Dhs149, every Sun evening from 6pm-10pm.

PLACES THAT PACK A PUNCH Dubai is brimming with venues that think outside the box. Latin-American hot spot Bar Rumba at Asia de Cuba Dubai (taxi: Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, +971 4 511 7333) is sure to blow away the cobwebs. Its Thursday Supper Club (from 9pm until late) offers an evening of Chino-Latino cuisine – think sushi, adobe chicken

avocado purée, glazed sweet potato and crispy calamari – paired with house drinks and a live salsa band turning up the heat. Dhs195 per person.

Or, be transported to the backstreet speakeasies of Asia at The Unlucky Cat (taxi: Taj Dubai, +971 50 650 4988), a quirky bar complete with neon sign of a maneki-neko (a lucky, 'waving' cat).

There's something going on each night of the week, but we suggest you go on Sun when you can swap a postcard or currency from a recent trip for a drink on the house. Open daily from 6pm until late.

For dinner and a show in an intimate setting, Maison Rouge (taxi: Conrad Dubai, +971 4 352 8169) will bowl you over with cabaret, jazz and modern ballet – all in the space of a few hours. The live performances by a team of international artists (including a pianist, saxophonist and electric violinist) are each teamed with creative cuisine, with an aim to tell the story of the relationship between

THE NIGHTLIFE FIVE OF THE BEST

ROOFTOP TERRACES Drink in the views at these elevated nightspots dotted across the city

2. Situated on the 16th floor of the fashion-inspired FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, The Penthouse (taxi: FIVE Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 455 9999) spotlights some of the best DJs and dance acts around at its al fresco club night every Thursday.

The venue boasts one of the most Instagrammable views in Dubai.

Open daily, call for timings.

1. For drinks shaken and stirred, head to the Polynesian-inspired LANI Rooftop Lounge (taxi: Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection Hotels, +971 4 810 9421), which has a fun yet chilled out vibe.

Unwind to the downtempo beats as you size-up the thrilling theme park rides from afar.

4. For an Arabian style experience, visit The Rooftop & Sports Lounge atop the Arabian Court at One&Only Royal Mirage (+971 4 399 9999).

Under a canopy of stars, sink into the majlis style cushioned seating around the central dome and sip cocktails until late. Open daily from 5pm to 2am, with live music on selected evenings.

3. Position yourself around the infinity pool at this popular chill-out lounge in Dubai Marina, which offers halfprice selected house and signature drinks every day from 6pm to 8pm.

Shades (taxi: Address Dubai Marina, +971 4 436 7777) is open daily from 9am to 1am.

5. For a dash of Latin hospitality, Cu-ba (taxi: Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, +971 4 230 8555) serves delicious tapas and cocktails against a stunning backdrop of twinkling city lights.

Private cabanas are available for parties and special celebrations.

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gastronomy and art. The dishes are as dramatic as you'd expect – think drinks served in roses and smoking ice displays. Performances begin at 9pm daily and go on well into the night.

We’re not sure why it hasn’t been done before, but Stereo Arcade (taxi: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai – Jumeirah Beach, +971 52 618 2424) combines an arcade housing over 50,000 games with a slushy machine, hotdog stand and more. The stereo element sees the hi-tech club play '80s and '90s hits every weekend.

Open daily from 6pm-3am.

If you like your entertainment a little more outlandish, head to Cirque Le Soir (taxi: Fairmont Dubai, +971 50 995 5400). The emirate's offshoot of the London A-list haunt is open from Bar Baar

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10.30pm-3am Mon to Fri, featuring performances from a beautifully bizarre cast of contortionists, stiltwalkers and fire-eaters, alongside some of the city's best DJs. If a secret hideaway is more your style, you'll feel right at home at Little Black Door (+971 55 623 1620), which is tucked away on the ground floor of Conrad Dubai. You’ll have no problem spotting it as the ‘little black door’ is actually huge. All you need to do is knock to enter and wait for it to swing open. Once inside, you’ll find a classy, club-style lounge complete with crystal chandeliers hanging from leatherclad ceilings, opulent furnishings and distressed-brick walls. The resident DJs play neo-soul and classic jazz.

Open daily from 7.30pm-3am.

LIVE MUSIC LEGENDS The city is awash with live musical talent, from Aussie rockers and Filipina soul divas to Britpop artists ready to entertain you with their tunes.

Indian gastropub and social spot Bar Baar (taxi: Majestic Hotel & Tower, +971 4 501 2631), meaning ‘again and again’ in Hindi, hosts regular live music sessions with an in-house band and visiting musicians, for a cross-cultural after dark experience.

Open daily from noon to 3am.

For a dose of singer/songwriter talent, head to Q’s Bar and Lounge (taxi: Palazzo Versace Dubai, +9714 556 8865), Quincy Jones’ first-ever bar and lounge, which welcomes an impressive roster of resident acts.

Open from 7pm-2am, Tue to Sat.

THE NIGHTLIFE THREE CRACKING

KARAOKE VENUES

Conquer your nerves and channel your inner music star by taking to the stage and impressing the crowd at these top karaoke venues…

1. Book in for dinner and an evening of fun at Maiden Shanghai restaurant (taxi: FIVE Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 455 9989). This stylish venue, inspired by 1930s Shanghai, has recently launched a multi-language karaoke room. Fully soundproofed, groups of up to 15 can sing along to their favourite songs. If your performance bombs, you can always walk it off on the outdoor terrace.

With a global reputation for awesome live music, it's no surprise to find a Hard Rock Café in town (taxi: Dubai Festival City Mall, +971 4 232 8900). Check out wall-to-wall musical memorabilia, including a bolero jacket worn by the late Prince and Mick Fleetwood’s Tama drums, before rocking out to live and loud sounds.

Open from noon to 2am Mon to Sun. Ramp up the fun factor at Lock, Stock & Barrel, which has two venues in the city (taxi: Grand Millennium Dubai, +971 4 514 9195 and taxi: Rixos Premium Dubai, +971 4 520 0049) each spanning two floors and kitted out with pool tables and 'stool and booth' seating fronting the main act’s central stage. The JBR venue is open from 4pm-3am Mon to Fri and 2pm-

2. Imported from London, Lucky Voice Dubai (taxi: Grand Millennium Hotel, +971 4 429 9999) is a top spot for testing your rap skills, singing soft-rock anthems or belting out cheesy pop tunes to your heart’s content. Eleven private pods allow groups of six to 18 people to warble away without (much) fear of embarrassment, while the 15,000-song playlist means you’re guaranteed to find the perfect tune for you.

3. Get karaoke’d away at this fun

3am on Sat and Sun, while the Barsha Heights venue has slightly different opening hours on Fri, from 1pm-3am.

A beach club meets open-air party, Zero Gravity (taxi: Skydive Dubai, +971 4 399 0009) attracts big name acts like Paul Van Dyk and Mark Ronson. On Thursdays, the Stoli Social Club Evening Brunch, from 8-11pm, transforms the venue into a fairground of fun where you can play video arcade games, ping pong, air hockey, and giant Jenga, among other classics. Dhs310 per player, with all food and drinks included.

RIVA (taxi: Shoreline, Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 430 9466) is set on 300-metres of pristine beach. As the sun goes down the lights warm up at its popular Bar and Gazebo, situated next to the pool. Unwind with a cocktail in hand while listening to the Balearic beats of the resident DJs. Open daily from 7am to midnight.

BEACH CLUBS Dubai's beach club game is strong.

Along the Palm Jumeirah crescent, you’ll find El Chiringuito Dubai (taxi: Rixos The Palm Dubai, +971 4 277 9180). Reserve a Bali-inspired sun bed, sit back and sip your drink while snapping a selfie at this cool Ibizan beach club import. On Fridays, you can soak up the good vibes on the beach terrace by the water's edge and join the musical Nomad ceremonies after the sun sets. Open from 10am-5.30pm Sun to Thur, 10am to midnight Wed to Fri, and 10am-8pm on Sat. Closed on Mon.

and vibrant Asian inspired venue, Mr Miyagi's Dubai (taxi: Media One, +971 4 420 7489), which offers karaoke five nights a week (Tuesdays to Saturdays). We rate the Hello Kitty Night on Tuesdays from 5pm, which offers three courses and three free drinks for women for Dhs99. Simply pick your song and sing it out to the supportive crowd.

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DUBAI INSTITUTIONS

Industrial Avenue

JUMPING SUPERCLUBS Glow sticks at the ready. Dubai’s big, bigger, biggest mentality has made it to the dance floor with a slew of funky clubs and mega dance venues to keep you going all night long. New kid on the block Industrial Avenue (taxi: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, +971 52 293 5907) offers a laid-back alternative to clubbing with something different going on each night. Its flagship underground house and techno event KOVERT, every Wednesday, offers complimentary house drinks for ladies all evening long. Open 11pm-3am (Main Room) Wed to Fri. Soho Garden (taxi: Meydan Racecourse, +971 56 822 2559) captures the vibe of London’s Soho, with a pool area, four bars to lean on and resident DJs every day from 8pm until late. Open from 7pm-3am, Wed to Sat. For a slice of New York chic, head to supper club 1OAK DXB (taxi: JW

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Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 52 881 8888). Born from the namesake 'One Of A Kind', its sister venues in New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles are a favourite celebrity haunt. Open from 11pm- 3am on Sun, Tue, Thur and Fri. After a really wild time? Head to Inner City Zoo Nightclub in JBR (Taxi: Rixos Premium Dubai, +971 58 867 5357). The place has a real buzz about it with a resident DJ taking to the decks Mon to Fri, bringing a blend of house and R&B. For oldschool jams, the ‘disco made me do it' bash on Fridays is solid fun, with free drinks for ladies from 11pm-2am.

Open from11pm-3am, Mon to Fri.

Dubai is home to a few spots that are famous for delivering an evening to talk about. Barasti (taxi: Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, +971 4 399 333) has been ruling the roost for 20 years, pulling in thousands of revellers every weekend. It combines live music, daily sunbathing sessions, a sand-betweenyour-toes dance floor and more serving stations than you can shake an empty glass at.

The Irish Village (+971 4 282 4750, theirishvillage.com) in Al Garhoud is another much-loved gem. The haunt of many a local (friendly) expat, the traditional interior opens out onto a large garden dotted with picnic tables. It has a great line-up of events that take place year-round. There's a second outpost at Riverland Dubai.

For many residents, an evening out at Rock Bottom Café (taxi: Ramee Rose Hotel, +971 55 200 9333) is a rite of passage. Its Barsha Heights venue has a live band and nightly DJs spinning club music.

SEAFRONT SETTINGS Want to feel the sand between your toes? With the JBR skyline as its backdrop and views of Palm Jumeirah, Bliss Lounge (taxi: Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort, +971 4 315 3886) is a chi-chi little locale frequented by the ‘in’ crowd seeking top DJ action,

Barasti

THE NIGHTLIFE custom cocktails and chilled beach vibes. Open daily from 12.30pm-3am.

So photogenic you’ll feel like you’re in a magazine shoot, The Jetty Lounge (taxi: One&Only Royal Mirage, +971 4 399 9999) rocks white linen style with beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Open daily from 2pm-2am.

Further along the coast, Key West Bar & Grill at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa (taxi: Pearl Jumeira, +971 4 376 6000) opens early every evening for aperitivo hour, with boutique beverages from the Caribbean and Latin America (5pm-11pm).

CASUAL HANGOUTS If you're tickled by novelty cocktail cups, Trader Vic’s JBR (taxi: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, +971 4 318 2530) has you

covered. The tiki-themed venue, open 5pm-3am daily, is the place to go for Mai Tais, Tiki Puka Pukas and JBR's bespoke Koana Puffer concoction.

Grab a seat on the outdoor terrace for views of the Arabian Gulf towards Palm Jumeirah and try to time your visit during Happy Hour (5pm-8pm daily).

With its large outdoor terrace, Café Artois by Bridgewater Tavern (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, +971 4 414 6755) is ideal for a chilled afternoon in the sun, with tasty barbecue food and a huge craft hop selection to enjoy. Open from 4pm Sun to Thur and from noon on Fri and Sat. A long copper bar, dark wood floors and exposed stonework shipped all the way from Scotland lend Copper Dog (taxi: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Dubai

– Jumeirah Beach, +971 4 559 5355) a cosy country atmosphere just like the original Scottish Highlands pub. Choose from a broad menu of drams, craft hops and pub grub enjoyed to live music. It’s also a nice spot for a quick nightcap. Open from 5pm-2am Sun to Thur and from 10am-2am Fri and Sat. Last but by no means least, Garden on 8 (taxi: Media One Hotel, +971 4 427 1000) invites you to hang out on the lush green terrace where you can catch up on all the latest sporting action on the big screens.

There's a daily Happy Hour from 4pm-8pm with wallet-friendly prices and generous offers, such as two-forone on selected drinks. The venue is open noon to midnight Sun to Wed and from noon to 3am Thur to Sat.

Garden on 8

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IN THE FRAME

From its atmospheric souks to its modern marvels, Dubai is a dream destination for photography fans, with something new to capture at every turn. In each issue, we invite a keen photographer to share one of his or her favourite snaps

ON THE DESCENT

Sure to stop you in your shopping tacks, The Waterfall at The Dubai Mall features a series of diving man sculptures designed to celebrate the emirate's pearl diving history. This photo by Ayko Kehl perfectly illustrates the mesmerising power of the artistic attraction. The 24-metretall water feature, which opened in 2009, was designed by Singapore-based DPA Architects.

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Girls’ Day at Saray Spa. Renew for the journey ahead.

Experience the ultimate in girly indulgence and retreat to the JW Marriott Marquis for 5-star pampering. Begin your afternoon with a 30-minute Facial or Back Massage followed by a complimentary reflexology session. Afterwards, savour a medley of sweet and savory treats with a delectable Afternoon Tea amongst the cosy and chic interiors of La Farine CafĂŠ & Bakery.

Daily, AED 300 per person

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE T +971 4 414 6754 | mhrs.dxbjw.spa@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com *Terms & Conditions: Offer is subject to availability. Advanced booking required. Booking is valid for a group of maximum 6 people.