What's On Abu Dhabi - December 2022

MADE THE LIST

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, you’ll always be on W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island’s list.

Celebrate this festive season in all your brilliance and sparkle, and ring in the New Year in style.

See you there!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne anthony@motivate.ae

GROUP EDITOR – WHAT’S ON Alice Holtham alice.holtham@motivate.ae

DEPUTY EDITOR Elise Kerr elise.kerr@motivate.ae

SENIOR ONLINE REPORTER Miles Buckeridge miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae

ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar aarti@motivate.ae

ONLINE REPORTER Tamara Wright tamara.wright@motivate.ae

WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi firoz@motivate.ae

ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza sheila@motivate.ae

DESIGNER Remy Thokchom thokchom.remy@motivate.ae

CONTRIBUTORS

Laura Coughlin, Harriet Shephard, Shelby Gee, Romy Hunt

PUBLISHER David Burke davidb@motivate.ae

REGIONAL MANAGER – ABU DHABI Taran Singh taran.singh@motivate.ae

GROUP SALES MANAGER Varsha Bhatia varsha@motivate.ae

GROUP SALES MANAGER Violeta Popescu violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Hebah Ikhleif hebah.ikhleif@motivate.ae

GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar sunil@motivate.ae

PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran binu@motivate.ae

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto venita@motivate.ae

CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta surajit@motivate.ae

CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew mark.mathew@motivate.ae

CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Ahmed Abdelwahab ahmed.abdelwahab@motivate.ae

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EDITOR’S LETTER

I’VE NOT BEEN FEELING VERY FESTIVE.

It isn’t like me to be serving Scrooge energy by December 1. Don’t get me wrong, I’m no festive season superfan. You won’t find me putting up the Christmas tree the second that Halloween is over, packing every corner of my calendar with festive markets and winter wonderlands. That’s usually my friend Ellie. But by now, I’m normally more excited for silly season, a little more merry and bright, if you will. If you’re feeling the same, fret not, as from p15 we’re bringing you all the venues that have decked the halls and decorated the trees to put on a festive spectacular. Whether it’s a Christmas Eve dinner, or a lavish spread on the big day, you’ll find them all in these pages.

Perhaps my favourite day of the season so far was shooting the annual Christmas photo with my What’s On colleagues in our matching Marks & Spencer pyjamas, the fabulously festive result you’ll find below. It’s these moments that really make this the most wonderful time of the year. The memory making and special times shared outweigh the stress that comes with Christmas get-togethers and ticking off every present on your shopping list. Speaking of presents, we all have that one, impossible-to-buy-for friend or family member. And with them in mind, we present the gift experiences to get for the person in your life that’s got everything. Jingle All The Way to p26 for some gift guide inspo.

But there’s more than just silly season to celebrate here in the capital right now. At a glittering gala unveiling last month, the Michelin Guide awarded a coveted Michelin Star to a trio of our finest restaurants, with a further four snapping up the impressive Bib Gourmands. Start making your reservations on p34.

However you find your festive season mojo, we wish you a Merry Christmas.

What’s On feeling festive thanks to Marks & Spencer’s Christmas pyjamas

EDITOR’S PICKS

Checked Family Christmas

Pyjamas, Marks & Spencer Dhs169, marksandspencer.com

Beauty Advent Calendar, Charlotte Tilbury Dhs995, Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Wonderlands

Lemon Luggage Set, Style Your Gift Dhs2,749, styleyourgift.com

Retro Chic Gift Box, Post My Gift Dhs550, postmygift.com

Santa Claus Mug, Pottery Barn Dhs69, potterybarn.ae

WHAT’S ON

Snuggling up at the... Snow Cinema

So, the chances of a White Christmas in the desert are slim, but thanks to Ski Dubai, you can visit a year-round winter wonderland. It’s particularly magical during the festive period. You’ll find me at the Snow Cinema, keeping toasty with a mug of hot chocolate and watching Home Alone. skidxb.com

–

Alice Holtham, Group Editor

Christmas shopping at… Oria

I think I might be the worst present buyer on the planet, which is why when I discover businesses like Oria, a homegrown house of elegant affordable jewellery, I cling onto those precious finds like a festively-motivated Gollum. @oria.jewelry

– Miles Buckeridge, Senior Online Reporter

Stepping into Christmas with… Madinat Jumeirah’s winter wonderland

There are few things more magical than a Christmas market: towering Christmas trees, warm mulled wine, and countless food stalls.

Madinat Jumeirah’s joyous winter wonderland is one of the best festive markets and a must-visit when spending Christmas in Dubai.

@madinatjumeirah

– Tamara Wright, Online Reporter

Shopping for decorations at... Crate and Barrel

Anybody who says my Christmas decorations are “too much” are on my naughty list. For stunning decorations, Crate and Barrel always come into clutch for Christmas.

@crateandbarrelme

– Shelby Gee, Editorial Intern

Stocking up on festive snacks at... Depachika

Depachika Food Hall is always my goto when it comes to stocking up on gourmet snacks, and Christmastime is no different. From the artisan bakery to the cheese (and wine) rooms, what’s not to love? Find me at the deli counter sampling all the free tasters they’ll let me get my hands on.

depachika.ae

–

Elise Kerr, Deputy Editor

Dreaming of an advent calendar from... Marks & Spencer

You can’t ask for a better present than an advent calendar. It’s 25 tiny gifts wrapped up in one, and the gift that keeps on giving throughout the month.

@marksandspencerme

– Aarti Saundalkar, Online Reporter

Spending Christmas Day at... Kite Beach

Having grown up in Dubai, my European friends ask me if it’s strange to not have a cold Christmas. I always find that an odd question as it’s all I’ve ever known. When we go to the beach on Christmas morning, there is always a fresh and dewy breeze, and the sea is crisp.

– Romy Hunt, Editorial Intern

UAE

Lewis Allsopp

CEO, ALLSOPP & ALLSOPP REAL ESTATE

Words: Alice Holtham

UAE Famous is a What’s On page focusing on people out there making the scene. They’re out there around town, shaping the UAE into what it is, creating the culture, food and life around us. We asked them what’s good in the UAE. We asked them what’s bad in the UAE. We asked them to tell us more, more, more about their wonderful selves…

Tell us who you are and what makes you famous?

I’m the CEO of the largest real estate company in Dubai, Allsopp & Allsopp. We average around 4,000 property transactions a year with over 500 staff working for the business.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I wake up at 6am so that I can have breakfast with my two beautiful children, Myla who

is three and my 18-month-old son, Harvey. After breakfast, I head to the gym. This keeps my mind as sharp as possible – if I don’t train I feel I’m not at my best. Then I’ll head into the office where the first thing on my agenda is to meet the senior management team. We have seven businesses under the Allsopp & Allsopp Group, so it’s important that I get information from the management to make decisions on their division’s directions. I always aim to be home for dinner and bath time with the kids.

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

I worked out that I Deliveroo at least 20 times a week. I genuinely believe it’s cheaper and more time efficient than cooking myself.

If you weren’t CEO of Allsopp & Allsopp, what would you be doing? I’d be a professional FIFA player.

What’s the best purchase you’ve ever made?

For the last 15 years, I’ve bought and sold properties in Dubai. My most fruitful investments in recent times have been my property in Atlantis The Royal and my home in Jumeriah Golf Estates. Both were investments I made with my gut knowing the market was going to take an upward trajectory when everyone else was fearful. My gut was right.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from building your business in the UAE?

Nothing lands on your door for free. If you want something you have to take action.

Do you think Dubai will be home forever?

I have been in Dubai since I was 19, which means I have spent the majority of my adult life living in this amazing city. So yes, I would say this is my forever home, but we do go back to London in the summer to work (and to escape the wild humidity). I’m lucky to be able to do my job from anywhere.

What are your plans for the business in 2023?

We aim to double our workforce to stay aligned with the growth of Dubai’s population and new property handovers.

@lewis_allsoppdubai

Above: Lewis Allsopp and his family

NATIONAL DAY FIREWORKS AT EMIRATES PALACE

When: December 2 Emirates Palace is hosting a collection of special National Day culinary adventures such as 51st anniversary fireworks, and the best way to catch this carnival of colour is with the special five-course meal being hosted at Martabaan, expect elevated food, a privileged fourth floor viewing point.

@emiratespalace

YALLA

BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN DECEMBER

RIPE MARKET AL MARYAH ISLAND

When: from December 2 Ripe Market Al Maryah Island is launching on National Day weekend, December 2, and will then take place every Friday and Saturday. All guests can expect food stalls, entertainment and homemade crafts.

@ripemarket

SPARTAN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

When: December 2 to 4

Taking place on UAE National Day weekend, the Spartan World Championships is one of sport’s most punishing challenges. The Spartan Trials lands in the Abu Dhabi desert. The gruelling obstacle-littered courses will take the Spartan tribe through the stunning Martian-esque dunescape of Al Wathba. race.spartan.com

DESIGN & DINE

CHRISTMAS PARTY

When: Sunday Dec 4

Design & Dine is throwing a festive themed get together where you can try your hand at plant pot decorating. You’ll also get access to free-flowing mulled wine, festive cocktails and traditional Yuletide trimmings. Priced at Dhs339.

@designanddine.ae

BLAST PREMIER WORLD FINAL

When: December 14 to 18

One of eSport’s most spectacular tournaments, the Blast Premier World Final will take place at the Etihad Arena for the very first time this December. Eight of the world’s best Counter-Strike (it’s a cult FPS game for the uninitiated) teams will compete to take home the trophy alongside an epic $1 million prize pool.

@blastpremier

THE LION KING MUSICAL

When: until December 10 Hakuna matata, UAE folks – this is your last chance to catch the award-winning stage show version of The Lion King. Marking its 25-year anniversary, the world-famous, award-winning musical’s historic four-week run in the UAE capital comes to an end on December 10 at Yas Island’s Etihad Arena.

Ticket prices start from Dhs200.

@thelionkingae

SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL

When: throughout December Held in the Al Wathba region of Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Festival is a celebration of both UAE and world culture, and includes a collection of pavilions, parades, performances, food adventures, spectacular fireworks displays and interactive exhibitions that add up to a fun family day out.

@zayedfestival

It’s the jolliest time of the year, and we’ve searched the city for the very best ways to celebrate Christmas in Abu Dhabi

WORDS: ELISE KERR

Christmas Eve DECEMBER 24

Annex

A festive brunch is taking place at the Annex Rooftop on Christmas Eve. So, dig out your best Christmas jumper and get ready for a Yuletide brunch with renowned views, a vibrant DJ set, light bites, and house beverages. After the festive fun concludes, move down to Annex Club for a memorable evening.

Annex, The Abu Dhabi Edition, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs245 soft drinks, Dhs295 house drinks, Dhs395 premium and Champagne. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. annexabudhabi.com

Kuzbara

If mulled wine, roasted leg of lamb, kebabs, and a dark chocolate yule log sounds like your idea of the perfect Christmas Eve, look no further than Kuzbara. Santa will even be taking time out of his busy schedule to pop by and deliver gifts to the children.

Kuzbara, Marriott Downtown Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft drinks, Dhs455 house drinks, Dhs555 premium drinks, Dhs110 children six to 11. Tel: (0)2 304 7777. @marriottdowntownad

LPM Restaurant & Bar

Gather friends and family and indulge in French-Mediterranean treats at LPM Restaurant & Bar. On December 24, Global Executive Chef Adriano will present his curated set menu, featuring foie gras terrine, a seafood tower, salmon tartare with potato wafers and caviar, chicken foie gras ballotine, roasted turbot with artichokes, and langoustine ravioli with truffle.

LPM Restaurant & Bar, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, 6pm to 11pm, Dhs595 food only. Tel: (0)2 692 9600. lpmrestaurants.com/abu-dhabi

Annex

LPM Restaurant & Bar

Graphos Social Kitchen

Celebrate Christmas Eve with friends and family for an evening brunch at Graphos Social Kitchen. The spread will include Christmas favourites from around the world, served across 16 live cooking stations. Enjoy traditional dishes such as roast turkey from the carving station or the freshest catch of the day, all served alongside a variety of beverages.

Graphos Social Kitchen, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, 6.30pm to 11pm, Dhs225 soft drinks, Dhs350 house drinks, Dhs95 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)2 208 6900. hilton.com

Le Corniche Dining

This family-friendly venue has everything you need for the perfect festive evening. From Christmas crackers on the tables to a turkey and trimmings station, carvery station, live barbecue and selection of festive desserts, everyone will enjoy the ambience. Santa will also be stopping by on the night to distribute treats. Le Corniche Dining, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, Dhs285. Tel: (0)2 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

Le Bistrot

Savour authentic French cuisine from the a la carte menu, paired with a selection of wines at Le Bistrot. The bright and modern venue is the ideal place for families and couples looking for an upscale start to their Christmas.

Le Bistrot, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, 7pm to 10.30pm. Tel: (0)55 367 5083. marriott.com

Mykonos

Relish a special four-course festive set menu complemented by a selection of house beverages amidst Christmas decorations. Indulge in sushi rolls, duck confit, as well as Christmas-themed favourites, while DJ Marc plays party hits.

Mykonos, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs299 soft drinks, Dhs299 house drinks, Dhs150 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)50 785 2320.

@mykonosabudhabi

Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar

Celebrate Christmas the Italian way, around the table with loved ones, sharing hearty plates and fond memories. While a live band sets the mood, tuck into a feast of traditional dishes that have been given an Italian twist.

Si Ristorante, Saadiyat Rotana, 7pm to 11pm, Dhs345 soft drinks, Dhs475 house drinks. Tel: (0)2 697 0000. rotana.com

Graphos Social Kitchen

Le Bistrot

The Oak Room

The famed roast brunch at The Oak Room will be given a sprinkle of Christmas magic on December 25. Guests will enjoy signature Oak Room sourdough and Marmite butter, as well as foie gras torchon-cocoa, raspberry coulis, pears and brioche plus a choice of mains such as roast beef sirloin, lamb pie and turkey, served with all the trimmings.

The Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi Edition, 12.30pm to 5pm, Dhs365 soft drinks, Dhs495 house drinks and Prosecco, Dhs645 Champagne and premium wines. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. oakroomabudhabi.com

Bord Eau

For Christmas with an elevated atmosphere, head to Bord Eau in Shangri-La Abu Dhabi. Enjoy a fivecourse French gourmet set menu, available on its own, or paired with a sommelier selection of fine wines. Bord Eau, Shangri-La Abu Dhabi, 6.30pm to 11pm, Dhs398 food only, Dhs748 food with wine pairing. Tel: (0)2 509 8555. shangri-la.com

Christmas Day DECEMBER

25

The WB Abu Dhabi

Head to the WB Abu Dhabi’s vibrant diner, Sidekicks, for a laidback Christmas lunch. The buffet spread will include holiday favourites, festive entrées, desserts and much more. Plus, look forward to meet-and-greets with renowned Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Robin, who will stop by to spread Christmas joy.

Sidekicks, The WB Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs140 soft drinks, Dhs70 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)2 815 0000. @thewbabudhabi

The WB Abu Dhabi

The Oak Room

Bord Eau

Asia Asia

Journey along the Spice Route this Christmas at Asia Asia’s popular brunch. Indulge in seasonal dishes with festive flavours, paired with unlimited beverages and an upbeat vibe.

Asia Asia, Yas Bay, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs400 soft drinks, Dhs500 house drinks, Dhs700 bubbly. Tel: (0)2 235 8663. abudhabi.asia-asia.com

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

Go all out this year at the White Festive Brunch. Feast on a selection of tender roasts and indulgent desserts, while the little ones partake in gingerbread house decorating. The event promises plenty of festive cheer and family togetherness on Christmas Day. Packages vary according to table location.

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, 1pm to 4.30pm, from Dhs455 soft drinks, from Dhs555 house drinks, from Dhs685 bubbly, from Dhs227 children aged four to 11. Tel: (0)2 811 4342. jumeirah.com

COYA

Fancy a Peruvian meal on Christmas Day? Available for lunch or dinner, COYA is serving its a la carte menu as well as a Christmas edition of its Fin de Semana experience. Priced at Dh199 for four courses, guests can enjoy dishes such as slow-cooked beef ribs, grilled corn-fed baby chicken, salmon with miso or crispy potatoes with spicy tomatoes. A two-hour drinks package is also available.

COYA, Four Seasons, The Galleria, Dhs199 set menu, Dhs168 house drinks. Tel: (0)2 306 7000. coyarestaurant.com

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

GRILLS@CHILL’O

The festive spirit will be in full swing at Grills@Chill’O, as you explore the selection of live stations on offer. Expect a turkey and trimmings station, carvery station, live barbecue and festive desserts, as well as live entertainment for the whole family.

Grills@Chill’O, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs295 soft drinks, Dhs125 house drinks add-on. Tel: (0)2 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

Horizon restaurant will have a festive barbecue with unlimited carvings and mini burgers on Christmas Day. Guests will enjoy a visit and gifts from Santa, plus children’s activities such as a Christmas scavenger hunt, blindfolded Christmas drawings, finger painting, Rudolph maskmaking and more.

Horizon, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft drinks. Tel: (0)2 657 0000. rotana.com

Grills@Chill’O

Asia Asia

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

COYA

Flavours

Enjoy a themed international buffet filled with an array of traditional dishes, including generous tender meat trimmings, turkey and beef carvings and mince pies. A dedicated kids’ corner will keep the little ones busy while you relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Flavours, Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs249 soft drinks, Dhs349 house drinks, Dhs449 sparkling, Dhs125 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)55 367 5083. marriott.com

SIM SIM

Tuck into roasted turkey and beef Wellington at Sim Sim’s Market Brunch. The lavish spread of international delicacies will be paired with signature beverages, while a live band and a DJ entertain the room. And for the kids, a dedicated area will host a surprise from Santa Claus.

Sim Sim, Saadiyat Rotana, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs395 soft drinks, Dhs520 house drinks, Dhs195 children aged six to 11. Tel: (0)2 697 0000. rotana.com

Le Meridien Village

Explore the huge buffet brunch at Le Meridien Village. Tuck into the holiday season with Christmas favourites such as stuffed turkey, juicy confit duck drumstick, and eggnog cheesecake. Dance and sway with live entertainment as Santa arrives to celebrate with everyone.

Le Meridien Village, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs199 soft drinks, Dhs299 house drinks, Dhs100 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)56 688 5361.

@lemeridienvillage

West Bay Lounge

The popular Barefoot Brunch will be given a Christmas twist for guests on December 25. The sharing-style brunch will offer a selection of festive dishes, as well as some delicious desserts. Santa will be stopping by to spread joy to all the little ones, while the adults get merry.

West Bay, Abu Dhabi Corniche, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 soft drinks, Dhs495 house drinks, Dhs595 Champagne. Tel: (0)2 692 4375. @westbayabudhabi

Le Meridien Village

Flavours

A Season to Remember

Garnish your festive season with a dash of sugar and a hint of spice at Al Raha Beach Hotel.

Christmas DAY SUPER BRUNCH

25 December | La Piscine | 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

The jolliest brunch of all! Outdoor brunch with good food, live music and Santa!

From AED 295 per person

New Year’s Eve GALA

DINNER

31 December | La Piscine | 7:00 pm onwards Ring in the New Year under a canopy of stars by the beach.

From AED 570 per person

For bookings or more information, contact our Festive Hotline at +971 56 545 0145 or email fnb.alraha@danathotels.com

Channel Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts danathotels.com

Mother of the Nation Festival (MOTN) is returning to Abu Dhabi’s Corniche this December and, after a huge event last year, we’re expecting big things from 2022. It’s an event to celebrate the legacy of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, and the festivities are expansive, with the grounds occupying a swathe of seafront Corniche leisure space.

What’s On at MOTN?

Conceived and executed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the 2022 edition will be held over a 10day stretch from December 9 to 18.

The family-focused fun is compartmentalised into six themed zones encompassing opportunities for guests to be entertained, enwisened and to dine out at a deliciously curated collection of popup yum-stufferies.

WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE

Because you can’t really have a proper festival without the soulful sounds of a live music seranade, Mother of the Nation has once again lined up a talented team sheet of performers for the 10-day tenure. Tickets are avilable to purchase via Platinumlist and start at Dhs145. Overseeing both the opening and closing of the festival, Miami Band – hailing from Kuwait, not Florida – return to the MOTN stage to serve up piping hot hits from their four-decade long career. Expect big sing-a-long energy from their tracks Juwaira and Ma’ak Radhi

Meanwhile, Iraqi singer Aseel Hameem will be making her voice heard on December 10. Known for supplying silky vocals to several popular Arab TV shows, her famous song Ser Alhaya is one of YouTube’s most streamed songs by a female Arab artist, having racked up more than 255 million views. Other big hits from her burgeoning back catalogue include Hadarat El Walhan and Al Mafrood.

On December 17, it’s the turn of Egyptian pop powerhouse, Mohamed Hamaki – winner of the ‘Best Arabia Act’ at the 2010 MTV Music Awards and the Music Award in 2006 for the song Ahla Haga Fiki. Fans will also fondly remember Mohamed’s role as a coach on the fifth season of The Voice Ahla Sawt. We’re predicting his tunes Yas Sattar, Ma Balash and his 2022 hit single Alby Habak Gedan will be getting the biggest cheers from the audience.

Mohamed Hamaki

Aseel Hameem

Miami Band

If you have a healthy distrust of resting heartbeats, we recommend you take the highway to the Thrill Zone, it’s likely to be your happy place. There’s a heist simulator (we’re in) and some intense, Metaverseteasing multiplayer virtual reality action to get involved with, whilst Pixel Haus proposes a more classic approach to monopolising your screen time with retro arcade games, billiards and ‘challenges of skill’ (that’s us out then). Rounding it all off with a throwback to spooky season, the Thrill Zone’s Haunted House is committed to serving up jump scares and soul-rattling screams.

Here the focus is on creativity and the art of inspiring-awe. It sees the return of the MOTN Funhouse, which this year features an interactive digital art installation by ANIMA, and a social media museum. Fingers crossed for a MySpace memorial plaque. Inspired dining includes Truffle Burger, Knafeh Bakery and Bar Biscotti.

International outlets including The Knot Churro, Whipped London, and Patty & Bun are locked in for the MOTN foodiefocused fiesta. Plus, look out for homegrown talent such as Birria Tacos, High Joint, Wing Stop, Mr Crab, Lobster Roll, Wok Boyz and more on your culinary exploration.

The MOTN carnival is making a grand return, featuring wild rides, soft play spaces and an invitation to interact with, parental trigger warning, the stars of YouTube and Netflix kids’ show sensation, CoComelon Refreshment support comes from The Mac Factory and The Treats Club Dessert Bar.

If you’re down for a spot of retail therapy, this might be one of the few festivals you can return from, without leafing through your purchases wondering what exactly you were thinking when you bought them. We don’t know who needs to hear this, (we do) but three felt top hats is probably three too many. As always, this hub of big spender vendors includes a range of brands covering fashion, accessories and cosmetics.

Abu Dhabi Corniche, December 9 to 18, priced from Dhs30 (access to certain attractions is also chargeable). ticketmaster.ae

Physical presents are out. Memorable things to do are in. These are the best experiences that money can buy…

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

THE PETROLHEAD ONE

Instead of getting tickets to the next Grand Prix for the Formula 1 fan in your life (they’ve probably booked them already anyway), buy them some behind-the-wheel fun at Yas Marina Circuit. Featuring a real single-seat racing car, this is the high-speed adrenaline drive of a lifetime. Feel like a professional driver as you power around the track with lightening quick F1 paddle shift gear changes. It’s the closest thing to an F1 car that most folks will ever drive. Experiences cost Dhs1,840 and include approximately 20 minutes on the track’s South Circuit. yasmarinacircuit.com

THE DAREDEVIL ONE

If you have a friend with a head for heights, give the gift of adrenaline that comes courtesy of flying inside the world’s tallest indoor skydiving flight chamber at Clymb. Thrill-seekers will head inside the chamber before getting blown away up into the air. Not enough adventure for one day? The brilliant combo package (Dhs315) also gives visitors access to the indoor climbing centre and its ‘Three Peaks’ – a bouldering wall, beginner wall and intermediate wall. Still not satisfied? Guests can speak to any one of the supervisors on the ground for a free skills assessment. If they pass, they’ll be eligible to scale ‘The Summyt’, a terrifying 138-foot-tall climbing wall – the highest wall in the world.

clymbabudhabi.com

THE MELODIC ONE

Got a musical mate who’s looking to form a one-man band? A monthlong guitar masterclass at the Royal Institute of Music & Arts – Abu Dhabi will teach you all the chords, tuning methods, and rhythmic-style basics, plus tips on the art of improvisation. Lessons last for 45-minutes with two sessions per week (Dhs630). Guitars aren’t provided so pick up a good one to complete the pressie. Next year: loop pedal.

royalmusicabudhabi.com

THE SUN-WORSHIPPING ONE

Know someone who loves topping up their tan? You can’t get better holiday-allthe-time vibes than by being the proud owner of a Privilee membership (Dhs999 for one month; Dhs2,916 for four months; Dhs6,348 for one year). There are two dozen Abu Dhabi pool and beach spots to daycay at, including W Abu Dhabi –Yas Island, The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, as well as access to 29 fitness facilities and nine kids’ clubs. privilee.ae

THE CRAFTY ONE

Have a friend that’s potty for clay? Gift them a foursession pottery package at contemporary arts space Studio Coe (Dhs800). They’ll enjoy a hands-on experience that takes wannabe potters through all the steps needed to create a unique finished piece. Work with wet clay, learn to trim and shape your piece before a final lesson in glazing. Students meet once a week for four consecutive weeks. @studio.coe

THE SPORTY ONE

It’s said that golf is a game of a lifetime. Probably because it takes your whole life to become any good at it. But everyone has to start somewhere. At Abu Dhabi Golf Club, there are eight-week intensive development programmes available separately for ladies and gents (from Dhs880), that’ll set you on the right swinging, putting and chipping path. You can always throw in their first golf club for major gifting brownie points, too. abudhabigolfclub.abudhabi

THE SPIRITUAL ONE

If you’ve got a friend who spends their day manifesting, journaling or in search of greater enlightenment, why not gift them a luxurious getaway with a guru?

Join UAE-based yoga and meditation teacher Dina Ghandour, for a seven-night retreat in Phuket’s stunning Lan Sabai resort, and dive into the elements of meditation, movement, mindfulness, energy, and connection. You’ll enjoy guided sessions, self-practice, massages, and nutritious meals as well as time for deep rest and restoration. Shared rooms cost Dhs6,606. dinaghandour.com

THE FOODIE ONE

THE WILD ONE

Forget zoo enclosures. If you want to embark on a wildlife odyssey, the nature and wildlife drive on Sir Bani Yas Island is the most authentic in the Emirates. Pick an animalloving pal that you want to treat and head for Abu Dhabi’s Arabian Wildlife Park (Dhs350 per person), home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, ostriches and the gorgeous Arabian oryx, and enjoy a safari-style drive through the reserve in your own customised 4x4. Add on a night’s stay at one of the three unique resorts on the island – Desert Islands Resort (from Dhs957 per night), Al Sahel Resort (from Dhs1,530 per night) or Al Yamm Resort (from Dhs1,607 per night). It’s not cheap, but it’ll definitely be more memorable than a trip to the zoo.

@anantarasirbaniyas

Give a person credit for their Deliveroo account and they’ll enjoy a brief foodie snack. Teach a person how to cook and they’ll be able to keep their (and hopefully your) fridge full of treats for a lifetime. Abu Dhabi-based Apron Stories runs its ‘ladies special baking’ sessions monthly for Dhs250. Last month, students learnt how to make a rosette buttercream cake. DM the team via Instagram (@apronstoriesuae) to find out what’s next and book in your mate in pronto. apronstories.ae

EXPERIENCE FOOTBALL

AS IF YOU WERE THERE.

GOOD TIMES AND VIBES AT THE ROOFTOP

Ascend to the 7th floor, sit back, have a drink and catch all the football action with daily viewing of all the matches of the biggest tournament of the globe.

Impressions Bar is the prime place in Abu Dhabi for great views, food, drinks, shows and music.

From 18 November to 18 December 2022, enjoy a variety of promotions on beverages, starting at AED 125 for a bucket of brews.

For reservations and enquires, please contact:

T: +971 (0) 56 503 5121 E: emdining@anantara.com

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. visit anantara.com

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel PO Box 128555, Sheikh Zayed Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

REVIEW: BORD EAU

An elegant reminder that nothing beats classic French fine dining

Throwing it back to a time when ‘luxury cuisine’ didn’t mean adding as many sparklers and theatrics as possible, Bord Eau provides a welcome break from the inescapable fusion sharingstyle menu trend.

With thick white tablecloths, sparkling silver cutlery and even a live harpist waiting to welcome you (yes, really), it’s all far fancier than even any wedding we’ve attended.

Authentically French and refined, we feel like true food connoisseurs as we sip our welcome glass of Champagne and admire the extraordinary spread of charcuterie that dominates the centre of the room. Laden with huge loaves,

endless cheeses and premium cuts, we feel it would be remiss not to start our experience here. We try to exercise as much restraint as possible, but it’s hard not to get carried away with the crusty baguettes and irresistible gooey brie.

Indeed, despite only offering three starters and six mains, the menu stars everything you would want and expect from such a Parisian-inspired hideaway.

Following the theory of ‘when in Rome’, we start with the escargot (Dhs78) and French onion soup (Dhs68). The portion of snails is huge and thoroughly delicious (as long as you are a fan of lots of garlic and you don’t think too much about what you are eating), while the soup is brimming with taste and texture.

Both provide the perfect build up to the succulent lamb (we have never tried better) and the impossibly light and fresh sea bass. Surrounded by caviar, mussels

and scallops, the latter is more ‘decadent seafood platter’ than humble main course. Finally, even after all this decadent food, we can’t help but crave something sweet to end on. The chocolate sphere adds extra Instagrammable value as it melts dramatically under the hot fudge sauce, and the chocolate opera cake strikes just the right balance between delicate and satisfying.

With just a few other diners around us, the vibe isn’t exactly popping for a Friday outing. But, with the charcuterie spread (essentially a meal in itself) and an entrée available for Dhs295 per person, Bord Eau provides an affordable way of living the high life.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, Khor Al Maqta, Fri & Sat 6.30pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 509 8555.

@shangrilaabudhabi

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

A place to feel like a truly sophisticated grown-up for the night and get some wear out of your poshest outfits.

Words: Harriet Shephard

Find out who secured a place in the inaugural Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi

WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE

The plat is now out of the Michelin bag in Abu Dhabi and based on the whims and wants of its inspectors, we’ve learned who’s kind of a big deal on the capital’s culinary scene. A significant 42 restaurants were added to this inaugural 2023 Guide, four were awarded the sought-after Bib Gourmand status (good, affordably priced food) and three more were honoured with what is likely international gastronomy’s most coveted prize of all, a Michelin Star.

ONE-STAR RESTAURANTS

Three restaurants were each awarded one Michelin Star in Abu Dhabi as part of the 2023 guide.

But who are these Michelin winners, and why should we care? Well, if you like good food – you’ll struggle to find a better respected independent arbiter of taste, than our friends at Michelin. Their rigorous testing method applies science to art, and rates experience based on the quality of the ingredients, the mastery of cooking, the harmony of flavours, the personality of the chef through the cuisine and the consistency both over time and across the entire menu (each restaurant is visited multiple times).

99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant

[ ]

After the Guide announcements, we predict that this (Spanish by birth) haute Japanese cuisine concept is probably experiencing somewhere in the region of 99 problems seating all the people trying to get a table now. These are of course great problems for the sushi house, based in The Galleria Al

Maryah Island, to have. And whilst the volume of attention is likely new, 99 Sushi has been a central pillar of Abu Dhabi’s fine dining circuit since 2017. Their signature dishes include wagyu and Kobe prime cuts, otoro nigiri, blue fin carpaccio, Hokkaido uni, gyozas, and king crab salad. They’re also known for adding exciting European flexes onto Asian cuisine. We’re talking tinkering with truffle and figuring out new ways to use foie gras.

@99sushibaruae

Hakkasan [ ]

The name ‘Hakkasan’ represents a global chain of high-end Cantonese restaurants, with strong links to the Guide. Two London Hakkasans have won Michelin Stars, and Dubai’s own location gained one in its inaugural guide earlier this year. And this Abu Dhabi outpost, found in a very special location, has now joined that list. You’ll find it at Emirates Palace, plating up artful servings of dim sum, seafood, spice and other food fire, often based on ancient

Chinese recipes. Our picks from the Abu Dhabi menu? Typhoon lobster, Chilean sea bass with organic honey and the supreme dim sum selection. The aesthetic element of the courses at Hakkasan is important, yes, but the art is indistinguishable from the eating. It’s all about the holistic experience. The chef is speaking through the food, and whilst we can try to describe it here, the only way to hear this beautiful mantra is to try it.

@hakkasanabudhabi

BIB GOURMAND

Talea by Antonio Guida [ ]

Emirates Palace now finds itself represented by a binary star system, with the relatively recent launch of Talea. It’s a culinary engine driven by multiple Michelin Star-honoured Chef Antonio Guida. A modern space, there are faux frescos on the wall depicting scenes from various Italian cities and highlighted detailing on the ceiling coves. We swooned over the calamari alla griglia, and gushed in hushed cooing sounds over what they did to a fillet of ricciola (amberjack). And what is now their verified ‘Michelin Star’ range of pizza, represents the perfect way to introduce yourself to the kitchen’s incredible flavours on a relative budget. Talea is an Italian job extremely well done, blowing the doors of our expectations clean off. Best Italian fine dining in the city? It just might be.

@taleauae

BEIRUT SUR MER

Located along the picturesque, beachfront promenade of Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Beirut Sur Mer comes painted in scintillating botanical aesthetics, paired with a remarkably strong Levantine menu. The menu is absolutely gargantuan, filled with a mezze myriad with dishes such as quinoa tabbouleh, crab moutabal, and halloumi bil teen. Beirut Sur Mer offers the finest service and a vast menu that will leave you wanting to linger for hours if only to try more plates of mezze, but don’t be like us – save room for your mains.

@beirutsurmer

ALMAYASS

You’ll find expertly crafted ArmenianLebanese dining at The Galleria Al Maryah Island’s Almayass, and in line with the defining requirement of the Bib Gourmand award, it won’t break the bank. This cross of two culinary

houses, both alike in dignity, translates into some great mash-up mezze items – kebbeh karaz, ras asfour with cherry sauce, manti, bastermi, and shanklish lead the pack for us.

@almayass_abudhabi

The Bib Gourmand category is awarded to restaurants that excel in providing good food at affordable prices.

Chef Antonio Guida

TAZAL

The second of two Al Qana entries, Tazal’s range and quality of Mediterranean meets Middle Eastern fare impressed the inspectors enough to earn a solid Bib Gourmand nod. The creative menu includes fusion dishes such as peri-peri chicken biryani, seafood machboos paella,

chicken kaaksadilla, wagyu al mosul, and a Korean lamb explosion with cumin tuile. It’s fair to say the restaurant’s claim that these are ‘brave twists’ certainly checks out, but given the recent Michelin acknowledgement, it seems it was a flavour experiment worth making.

@tazaluae

OTORO

Locally based culinary legend, chef Akmal Anuar (whose Dubai restaurant 11 Woodfire won a Star in the inaugural Dubai Michelin Guide) opened his first Abu Dhabi restaurant this year, and it’s a keeper. The location pin drop is at the canal front destination Al Qana, the seat of so much exciting new gastronomic and leisure murmurings in the capital. Otoro is an authentic and clinically studied reenvisaging of an Osakan kitchen, and beyond the stunning nigiri options (of which, naturally the otoro fatty tuna is their expertly crafted signature), our pick of the dazzling dishes was the melt-in-the-mouth shabu shabu burger. A burger like no other, its moreish wagyu slices, perfectly toasted bun and buttery caramelised onion make every bite jucier than the last. We licked our fingers clean. @otoro.ad

SPECIAL AWARDS

The inspectors aren’t only focusing on food while they dine, they’re also looking out for shining stars among the service. In this year’s guide, there are three Abu Dhabi contenders for special awards. Service Award: Rawad Hamdan and team, Restaurant Li Beirut Sommelier Award: Marlon Nuque, Zuma Restaurant Young Chef Award: Luigi Stinga, Restaurant Talea by Antonio Guida

Animals at Annex Rooftop

Welcome to the jungle. Or more accurately, welcome to the return of The Abu Dhabi Editions wild Animals themed rooftop brunch, which, after a theatrical flora and fauna-based makeover, kind of resembles a jungle. No stranger to wild times, Annex Rooftop is an energetic, sophisticated sort of alfresco space, serving up an award-winning ensemble of sharing-style cuisine and expert pours from a team of craft mixologists. Those themes continue into the brunch where the musical rumblings come from resident queen of the jungle, DJ Mi$$ Rich. And just because the lion sleeps at night, doesn’t mean you have to. There’s an after-party making landfall at Annex Club between 5pm and 7pm with a free-flow package for Dhs150.

Annex, The Abu Dhabi Edition, Al Bateen Marina, Sun 2pm to 5pm, Dhs225 soft drinks, Dhs295 house drinks, Dhs395 bubbly. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. @annexabudhabi

BRAND NEW BRUNCHES

Brunch is the Abu Dhabi expat community’s unofficial favourite sport

Lock, Stock & Live at LSB

Lock, Stock & Barrel may not have invented the party brunch, but they might just have perfected it. Priced at just Dhs250 for the house package, its famous high energy, epic bites (we’re talking about chicken tacos, lock and loaded nachos and truffle mac and cheese croquettes), wild entertainmentcrammed brunch just got a live musical upgrade. It’s all the fun from before, with the added benefit of show-stopping, on-tour UAE-based rock and pop talent, hitting the stage primed to drop the mic and crank up the fiesta brunch vibes.

Yas Bay, Yas Island, Sat 1pm to 4pm, Dhs200 soft drinks, Dhs250 house drinks. lsbdubai.com

The Greek Seafood Brunch at Mykonos

Off the back of their incredibly successful Friday night brunch, Mykonos has just launched a brand new Saturday event, and it’s doing things a little bit differently for the prime time slot. Rather appropriately for the venue’s name, The Greek Seafood Brunch invites you to feast on the fruits of the ocean. Fresh from the catch, the expert chefs of Mykonos’ kitchen team will dress, prepare and grill to perfection a wide range of fish and fruit de mer.

Le Méridien Abu Dhabi, Al Zahiyah, Sat 1pm to 4pm, Dhs249 soft drinks, Dhs299 house drinks. Tel: (0)50 785 2320. @mykonosabudhabi

Words: Miles Buckeridge

Words: Miles Buckeridge

BAR OF THE MONTH:

CHAMPAGNE AND CAVIAR

When we first heard about the new Champagne and Caviar bar at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the whole thing just felt like one of those exclusive UAE experiences that were meant for another stratum of society, the PJS (private jet set) for example, or the people that pay the extra Dhs6 for guac. It’s a permanent pop-up, within the hotel’s Signature 3 Lounge, uniquely offering, as you may have deduced from the name, Champagne and caviar. Then there are the elevated desert island sea views, and the fact the bar is only open for a 5pm to 7pm sundowner session.

So very exclusive in fact, that we had to try it.

Seated within the Signature 3 set-up, the Champagne and Caviar bar occupies a tiny

space – a Fabergéesqe kiosk of wood panelling, gold and a glass display cabinet showing off a variety of caviar tins. We’re not sure whether it was the ‘they’re fish eggs right?’ comment or the puzzled look on our faces that signalled our ignorance on the nuanced world of caviar, but our server politely explained some of the finer points of this most fancy food type.

“Here we use Kaviari, it’s a French brand, but the sturgeon roe is all still from Russia – that’s a bit controversial for some purists, but we find the quality to be very good.” Indeed it is. We assume, we have no fish roe yardstick outside of taramasalata toasties. There’s a price list of various roe grades, ranging from Dhs450 for 30 grams to the Imperiel Beluga option which rings in at

Dhs2,000 for 50g. We opt for a mid-range Caviar Baeri Royal, which is supposed to evoke ‘earthy flavours with a woody hint’.

The serving ritual involves cracking open one of the tins, placing it on ice and then, using a wooden spoon, loading melba toast or soft blinis with a sizeable scoop. You’re also provided with a collection of condiments such as egg white and yolk (separately), raw onion, chives and sour cream. It’s in experimenting with combinations of garnish, that we start to understand the true allure of this tiny spherical black gold. At first we have to focus to taste past the, admittedly still pleasant, salty, vaguely fishy profiles – but with each bite, more complicated aromas emerge. There are oaky tones, peaty notes, sometimes nutty but always umami flavours flooding through.

The Champagne element of the evening, we are somewhat more familiar with – there’s no tentative, “so this is made from grapes, right?” moment. We’re also aware of the cherished sabering ritual – a St. Regis tradition – a salute to the sunset that takes place in every single one of the more than 50 locations across the world, where a Champagne bottle is opened with a sword. It’s dramatic, atmospheric and a poetic nod to the nostalgia of a more formal time. And more than a little ‘Gatsby’, which makes it the perfect pairing for a caviar experience

The Signature 3, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, 5pm to 7pm. Tel: (0)2 498 8443. stregis.com

WHAT’S ON VERDICT

The St. Regis has put together a unique-toAbu-Dhabi experience here. Full of ritual and characterised by unabashed luxury – it feels special.

Could this be the most roe-mantic pop-up in Abu Dhabi?

Words: Miles Buckeridge

Be honest, how many Christmas movies really stand up to the annual rewatch test? You’ve got Elf, Love Actually and The Holiday as the big presents under the theatrical tree. After you’ve unwrapped those, you’re left with the cinematic equivalent of satsumas and itchy socks from Aunt Doris. But if you fancy adding a bit of abstract tinsel into your festive film rotation, these are our suggestions for the best Christmas movies that aren’t actually Christmas movies. And we’re not including Die Hard, because that is a proper Christmas movie.

In Bruges

Christmas films tend to follow one of a collection of pretty formulaic plot structures: Santa duties are suddenly thrust onto an unsuspecting recipient; a lifelong humbug enthusiast softens after finally feeling the true magic of Christmas; a stressful Christmas pushes a couple/individual/group to breaking point, only to be revived from the brink by the aforementioned Yuletide woo-woo. Less common, however, are comedies about assassins hiding out in quaint, admittedly dull, Christmas market-festooned Belgian cities, impatiently waiting for their next wet work contract. And whilst it’s unlikely to flush much Xmas cheer down your existential chimney, it is a very, very good movie with Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes all putting in ho-ho-honestly brilliant performances.

Gremlins

Essentially a lesson on the perils of not reading your Ts and Cs thoroughly. But make it festive. A travelling salesman buys a mysterious cuddly creature from the Pennsylvanian equivalent of DragonMart, as a last-minute panic-purchase Christmas gift for his son. The acquisition comes with a few easy to follow ownership rules, but ones if not followed will result in dire consequences. After his owners accidentally and still somehow systematically break the pet care protocols one by one, the cuddly protagonist Gizmo inadvertently sires a litter of carnage-mongering, very unChristmas-spirited lizard babies. The town is swept by a one-species, Gremlin crimewave, punctuated by incidents ranging in severity from minor mischief to willfull murder. There is a way to defeat them, but it was laid out in those pesky terms and conditions that seem to have gone unheeded.

Everyone has a little bit of Grinch in them, right?

The Family Man

The Christmas element of this movie is essentially window dressing for what is a Dickensian de-Scroogeing of a Wall Street banker, via a ‘this is what you could have won’ glimpse at an alternate life. The one he would be living if he’d only chosen love over greed. Yes, it’s sentimental, absolutely predictable, and occasionally silly, but it’s heartfelt, enjoys some great lead performances from Tea Leoni and old Saint Nick (Cage), and ends in a teasingly unresolved way that perfectly parallels post-Chrimbo-pre-NYE interim ennuis.

Trading Places

Originally slated to star Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder, this comedy sees a wealthy commodity broker switch fortunes with a lowly street hustler, in order to test a hypothesis on the validity of class structure. That makes it sound noble. It isn’t. It’s a calculated, subterfuge-laden switcheroo that threatens to irrevocably ruin the lives of two, probably unfair to say innocent but on balance ostensibly good, men – all over what amounts to a dispute on eugenics. “What’s all this got to do with Christmas then?”, the choral line of carol singers in our head cheer. Again, the festive setting is mainly a decorative element in the movie, but it does end up being an essential part of a concluding plot mechanism. And we’ll stop there, unless you’ve been bad this year in which case you’re getting nothing but spoilers in your stocking.

Scrooged

This is probably the closest thing to an actual Christmas movie in our round-up. It’s a 1988 black comedy and shameless Bill Murray vehicle that essentially amounts to a modern (albeit 34-year-old modern) reimagining of A Christmas Carol. Murray plays Frank Cross, a gleefully cruel and miserly TV exec, who’s sacrificed a shot at true love for a Santa’s sack-sized salary package. After swapping out the seasonal cash bonuses he promised to his staff for vanity towel sets, Cross is visited by a series of three apparations who all attempt to show him the avaricious error of his ways. As a bonus bit of meta narrativising, the events are set against a backdrop of Murray’s character overseeing a television production of the Dickins novella that the film is itself parodying.

The Harry Potter series

Each entry in this branch of the Wizarding World saga usually covers a full academic year of ‘I dunno, that Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher looks a bit dodgy mate’. That means we’re often voyeurs for Harry’s orphan Christmas, frequently spent alone or with scant company hanging out in and around the Gryffindor common room. It’s not all bad news though, Dumbledore buys the best presents and it beats Boxing Day dinner with the Dursleys. Imagine how aggressive those games of Monopoly would get.

On December 3, Rockstar rap impresario, Post Malone, will take to the stage at Etihad Park, (formally du Arena).

Real name Austin Post, Malone selected the second half of his stage moniker allegedly from a rap name generator. Back before his Rap Billboard number ones, Posty, an artist that most consistently cites Bob Dylan as his biggest influence, had already spent time playing guitar in a heavy metal band.

Seeking out new sound experiences, Malone went on to swap shred for dreads, and grew a devoted Soundcloud audience with his unique blend of hip hop, trap, alt rock, pop and electro. The genre-melting break-out hit on debut album Stoney, was 2017’s aspirational Congratulations, which features the artist rapping and singing over what would become signature trap drum loops.

The soulful hooks kept rolling on through his 2018 multiaward-winning second album, with Rockstar taking the US 100 number one spot. His third album Hollywood’s Bleeding dropped just a year later in 2019 and although it spins with a slightly more refined sound, that same skillful blending of musical styles threads through the track list. For a quick demo of audio

diversity, channel your inner shuffle button and play singles Wow and Circles back-to-back, comparing musical notes.

Post Malone’s December 2022 performance won’t be the first time he’s lit up a Yas Island stage. He was here for 2018’s F1 Yasalam After-Race concerts, droppin’ bangers, and poppin’ shawarmas like a rockstar. His performance of Congratulations is always an emotional one, offering a pre-stardom snapshot of the Malone mindset.

It also includes the line ‘worked so hard forgot how to vacation’. And that hasn’t changed. In addition to the Herculean toil ethic that saw him put out three albums in three years, play tours, make podcast appearances, enjoy numerous ‘featured’ credits – the New York state native also somehow found time to take up acting roles in Guy Richie’s Wrath of Man, and Peter Berg’s Spenser Confidential. Still, we’d vote for his (five-time) collaboration with the pragmatic footwear brand, Crocs as his most rapper-expectation-defying behaviour.

One thing you can expect from a Post Malone concert though, is one epic show.

Etihad Park, Yas Island, December 3. Tickets via ticketmaster.ae and virginmegastore.ae.

TICKETS

General

General

Tennis takeover

Handcrafted chiming clock by David Galbraith

Photograph by Lord Patrick Litchfield

Painting by Faisal Abdulqader

Sculpture by Freeman Lau Painting by Simone Monney

Painting by Mona Kfoury

Photograph by Yousif Alharmoodi

Photograph by Jassim Al-Awadhi

Photograph by Sir Wilfred Thesiger

Photograph by Rohit Rattan

Words: Laura Coughlin

APPLE WATCH 8

Price: Dhs1,599

The latest version of the Apple Watch is not only dust- and water-resistant, but also has a face-full of cool features: from temperature sensors that track blood oxygen levels and ECG, and sleep stages to better understand your rest cycles, to crash and fall detection for unforeseen emergencies. apple.com/ae

SPF TRAVEL KIT

Price: Dhs195

Any outdoor workout requires ultimate broad-spectrum protection, and this four-piece bundle from Coola contains a bevy of staples, including classic body sunscreen spray SPF30, classic fare sunscreen lotion SPF30, classic lip balm SPF30, and radical recovery after sun lotion to fend off the effects of UV rays. bloomingdales.ae

EXERCISED: THE SCIENCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, REST AND HEALTH

Price: Dhs60

FOAM ROLLER

WATER BOTTLE

Price: Dhs229

Help the fitness fanatic in your life hydrate on the go and roll out tight muscles wherever they end up with this 2-in-1 foam roller 800ml water bottle from Mobot. en-ae.namshi.com

L’COUTURE SPORTS BRA

Price: Dhs265

Sports bra choice can be personal, but you can’t go wrong with this supportive, buttery-soft number from Dubai homegrown brand L’Couture. Somewhere between a crop top and a bra, the elevate seamless bra peach marl is a lovely gift that they can decide how to wear and style. lcouture.com

SPORTY SWAG

‘Tis the season to gift someone a foam roller water bottle, hip athleisure combos or a stand-up paddleboard

Give the gift of knowledge to any fitness fan who loves to learn about the nitty-gritty of their body and training. Exercised is a great read before the ‘new year, new me’ talk, diving into high-level scientific research to debunk myths around exercise. uae.kinokuniya.com

PADEL RACKET + BALLS

Price: Dhs623 (and Dhs45)

Padel tennis is experiencing an almost fanatic worldwide following, and 170+ padel courts in the UAE are testament to that. This chic Swedish Nordicdots racket is handmade in Spain, and perfect for beginners to advanced levels. The stylish white padel balls make for a nice addition, too. ninjoo.ae

INFLATABLE STAND UP PADDLEBOARD

Price: Dhs1,899 Reid’s Santa Monica inflatable 10-foot paddle board will happily unlock the world of openwater leisure. With a pump, leash and paddle also included, it’s got everything needed to scratch that fresh air itch. adventurehq.ae

THE GIVING MOVEMENT COMBO

Price From Dhs299 (oversized T-shirt) and Dhs249 (shorts)

Residents are still going gaga for The Giving Movement gear, easily the UAE’s biggest homegrown fashion brand success story. And rightly so.

The eco-friendly athleisurewear is stylish, comfortable and cool. Plus, Dhs15 is donated to charity partner Dubai Cares & Harmony House for every item sold.

thegivingmovement.com

Words: Laura Coughlin

Yalla, Ons!

Some of the biggest names in tennis are in Abu Dhabi for the 14th edition of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship, including the pride of the Arab world

CHAMPS

It’s not uncommon to hear words of encouragements from spectators on centre courts. Cheers in different languages from ‘come on’ to ‘vamos’ or ‘allez’. But this year, it’s been ‘yalla’ ringing across stadiums from the US to UK, all thanks to Tunisian and Arab star Ons Jabeur.

Fans from the North African nation have flocked across the world, ready to support their ‘Minister of Happiness’, as they affectionately call her, and will no doubt be in full force when the World No.2 appears at the upcoming Mubadala World Tennis Championship to defend her title.

Jabeur is already a popular figure in the Arab world, thanks to her long list of achievements in tennis. But her rise to the No.2 spot and her impressive run to both the Wimbledon and US Open finals have taken things to the next level this year.

The season certainly didn’t start on a promising note for Jabeur, who was ruled out of the Australian Open with a back injury. Once fully healed, she came on strong in the spring. After making her first final of 2022 in Charleston, Jabeur went on to win the biggest title of her career at the Mutua Madrid Open. From there,

Jabeur continued her ascension. Off the back of Madrid, she made the final in Rome and then tore through the grass season, winning her second title of the year in Berlin and breaking through to her first major final at Wimbledon.

Despite falling just short to Elena Rybakina, she solidified her status as a major contender and two months later, in New York, Jabeur became the first Arab or African woman to make the US Open final, narrowly losing out to the current World No.1, Iga Swiatek.

After back-to-back Slam finals, her ability to speak English, Arabic and French, and the fact that she’s as much a players’ favourite across the circuits as she is the fans, it’s not hard to see why Jabeur could become the next household name of world tennis.

But, of course, in order to do that,

Ons Jabeur

she must break through and win her first Grand Slam.

In the meantime, she must continue building on her successes. Her return to Mubadala World Tennis Championship sees the World No.2 face former Grand Slam champ, and current tennis darling, Emma Raducanu who had to withdraw from last year’s Abu Dhabi tournament after testing positive for Covid-19.

John Lickrish, CEO of event organiser Flash Entertainment said the encounter features “two of the sport’s biggest names. Ons is a crowd favourite while I know Emma is also extremely popular and tremendously excited about making her debut here in the UAE. I’m sure there will be huge interest from the tennis community both in the UAE and the wider region.”

Ons Jabeur defends her title against Emma Raducanu on Friday December 16 at 8pm.

MEET THE PLAYERS

WOMEN’S LINE-UP

Ons Jabeur

TUNISIA

Current World Ranking: World No.2

Fast fact: First Arab tennis player to reach the top 10 in either ATP or WTA rankings history

MEN’S LINE-UP

Carlos Alcaraz

SPAIN

Current World Ranking: World No.1

Fast fact: The 19-yearold makes his Middle East debut at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship

Andrey Rublev

RUSSIA

Current World Ranking: World No.7

Fast fact: Defending champion at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship

Cameron Norrie

Great Britain

Current World Ranking: World No.14

Fast fact: Reached his first Grand Slam semifinal at Wimbledon this year

December 16 to 18

Emma Raducanu

GREAT BRITAIN

Current World Ranking: World No.74

Fast fact: Former US Open champion had to withdraw from last year’s Abu Dhabi tournament after testing positive for Covid-19

Casper Ruud

NORWAY

Current World Ranking: World No.4

Fast fact: Former World No.1 junior was the first Norwegian to break into Top 35

Frances Tiafoe USA

Current World Ranking: World No.19

Fast fact: Defeated fourtime champ Rafael Nadal at 2022 US Open semi-finals

Stefanos Tsitsipas Greece

Current World Ranking: World No.3

Fast fact: His last appearance at the MWTC came in 2019 where he lost to Rafael Nadal after claiming the first set

International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi, Fri to Sun, Dhs95 for adults and Dhs45 for children (Fri), Dhs195 for adults and Dhs95 for children (Sat) and Dhs295 for adults and Dhs195 for children (Sun). mubadalawtc.com

Words: Laura Coughlin

You might think you have it all down when it comes to relieving everyday wellness issues. Headache? Pop a painkiller. Breathing issues? Get yourself an inhaler. Seasonal allergies? There’s medicine for that, too. But what if you could feel better just by breathing different air – no medication required?

Salt room therapy claims to do all that and more. The treatment essentially involves sitting in a room (often also referred to as a salt cave or house) filled with rock salt and inhaling salty air. While the natural healing practice has a history rooted in Europe, with some of the earliest known salt caves in Poland, a salt-filled space has opened up inside the calming surrounds of new Miracles Wellness Center in Abu Dhabi’s Al Gaith Tower.

A room well-seasoned

Salt room therapy claims to offer healing benefits such as curing the common cold, decreasing allergy symptoms, reducing anxiety, detoxifying the lymphatic systems, and improving sleep. How? Unlike table salt, which is stripped of most of its natural minerals, the Himalayan rock salt you’d find in these room caves is rich in minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iodine, bromine, and copper. So, in theory, you absorb these minerals when you breathe.

To see if there was merit to the claims — and hopefully, leave feeling refreshed, breathing deeper, with our energy recharged — we headed to Miracles Wellness Center, which boasts its own salt room.

It’s certainly very cosy. The ground is made up of loose Himalayan salt rocks, while the back wall is stacked with glowing Himalayan salt bricks – turned to a light shade of blue to invoke a sense a hypnotic calm.

Long-time healer Jane Elizabeth runs the salt healing sessions – among a myriad of other holistic treatments from reiki to laughter yoga – at Miracles. We join in on a group session and sit on one of the five high-back floor chairs arranged in a tight semi-circle facing a ring of singing bowls. Over the next 45 minutes, Jane takes us through a guided breathing meditation, her soothing tones cradling us in warmth as we breathe deeply while burying our feet in the salt. Towards the end, Jane offers a touch of personal reiki healing and singing bowls therapy to complete the calming, contemplative experience.

As we left, we felt similar to how we do after a yoga class – a sort of

dazed peacefulness – already a win for our otherwise frenzied minds. As for curing the ailments as suggested, well, a few more regular sessions with Jane in the salt room, and only time will tell.

Miracles Wellness Center, 302 Al Ghaith Tower, Hamdan Street, Dhs150 (group salt room meditation). miraclesworldwide.com

Sponsors Presented By Vote Processing Partner Beverage Partner Printing Partner

Words: Aarti Saundalkar

THE UNEXPECTED

Yerevan is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and one that is filled with hidden wonders and treasures just waiting for you to explore.

There’s something truly special about Armenia. Whether you enjoy travelling for the rich history and culture, or green scenery and landscapes – you’re sure to find it here.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Go on a tour of the city

A few hours in Yerevan’s city centre is all you need to fall in love with it. There’s a lot that can be done in a day, so be sure to wake up early, grab breakfast and go discover the city.

Start out at the world-class sculpture garden in front of Cafesjian Center for the Arts. Spot a huge sculpture of Trdat – the chief architect of the Bagratid kings of Armenia, as well as the iconic pop art ‘LOVE’ by American artist Robert Indiana. Art-lovers need to allot time to spend inside the art centre but one masterpiece you don’t want to miss lies outdoors on what is most commonly known as The Cascade – the beating heart of the city with sweeping views of the Armenia cityscape. If you’re lucky, you may also be able to spot Mount Ararat on a clear day.

Visit one of the many cafés here before you set off on a tour. Be sure to pay a visit to Katoghike Holy Mother of God Church, one of the oldest churches in the city, and the Blue Mosque, the largest of eight mosques in Yerevan.

This city truly comes to life at night. This is the time to visit the dancing fountain

in front of the History Museum of Yerevan, complete with lights and music. Then, soak in the sights of Republic Square from the impressive stone buildings and enjoy the musicians roaming the streets.

From here, Yerevan offers plenty of places to stop and pick up some souvenirs, try traditional Armenian cuisine and its wonderful local wine.

Lake Sevan and Sevan National Park

Soak up nature and the panoramic views from up-high at Sevan National Park –one of the four protected national parks of Armenia that surrounds and protects Lake Sevan. Known as the ‘blue pearl’ or ‘blue eye of Armenia’ – Lake Sevan is the country’s national treasure. It is home to fresh water, providing fish to the region, and is vital to tourism and agriculture. Lake Sevan is also dotted with a number of impressive churches and monasteries, including the mustsee Sevanavank, known as ‘the Black Monastery’. Though simple in design, the monastery is one of the mostvisited sites in Armenia.

Haghartsin Monastery

A two-hour drive away from Yerevan’s city centre is Haghartsin Monastery (meaning soaring eagle) located near the town of Dilijan in the Tavush Province of Armenia. It was built around the 10th century and comprises three different churches, a sepulchre, and a refectory. Due to storms, raids and decades of neglect, the complex was near ruins. However, when His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, visited Armenia in 2005, he generously offered to renovate the complex. After repairs, the monastery reopened to the public in 2013. Visit the monastery and see the exquisite stone carvings, the refectory hall showcasing medieval Armenian architecture, and the centuries-old khachkars (carved stone crosses).

Van Ardi Estate

Oenophiles will love Van Ardi – an award-winning boutique winery in the Aragatsotn region of Armenia. The charming family run boutique winery offers a unique experience with tours of the estate’s vineyards, the history of Armenian wine and of course, wine tasting. Spend two to three hours (or more) sampling wine with food pairing as you sit enjoying the views of the gorgeous vineyard and Mount Ararat with a specially built bell tower just metres away. The bell tower, which stands right in front of the vineyard is important as the family believes that the vibration and sound add positive energy to the ingredients that make up their fine wine. You will be able to ring the bell, too. vanardi.com

Yell Extreme Park

Located in the ever-green Yenoqavan mountains, Yell Extreme Park is for the thrill seekers and nature lovers. A must-try activity here is the zip-line where you’ll soar through the air. Other heart-pumping activities include a rope park, horseback riding, off-roading and via ferrata. Visit early to check off all the activities on the list. yellextremepark.com

WHERE TO STAY

Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Yerevan

Situated 150 metres from Republic Square, this hotel is a great budget-friendly option. It offers a continental or buffet breakfast, a rooftop terrace and spacious rooms for you to unwind after a long day. Prices start from Dhs267 per night. amadayerevan.am

Best Western Plus Congress Hotel

Located next to the Children’s Park in Yerevan city centre, this modern and elegant chain hotel is a great hotel to stay in to experience the rhythm and the soul of the capital. Prices start from Dhs280 per night. congresshotelyerevan.com

The Alexander Heralded as the first luxury international hotel in the historic centre of Yerevan, the hotel features a minimalist design, grand gold accents and hints of decorative Armenian motifs. It’s petfriendly, has an Alexander Spa by Anne Semonin and an Italian restaurant on the top floor. Prices start from Dhs1,400 per night. marriott.com

FOUR DISHES TO TRY

Armenian food is not only delicious, but also healthy. Here are some must-try dishes to look out for.

Cheese and greens brduch [buhr-dooch]

Brduch, which translates to ‘wrap’ in Armenia, is an essential all-purpose food, which you can treat yourself to for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It includes green vegetables, and cheese wrapped in lavash (unleavened bread).

Lahmajo [lah-mah-jo] This Armenian-style pizza is a flatbread topped with minced meat.

Tolma [tol-mah]

A common Middle Eastern dish, this is a cabbage or grape leaf stuffed with minced meat and rice, which can be eaten either hot or cold.

Gata [gah-tah]

For a sweet treat, skip the cakes in Armenia and indulge in Gata – a traditional bread stuffed with sugar and butter.

HOW TO GET THERE

Flydubai flies to Yerevan, Armenia twice daily with return tickets starting from Dhs1,440. flydubai.com

Mauritius

For a tropical getaway with pristine beaches and a beautiful marine park, head to Mauritius. It is a fantastic, family-friendly option for travellers wanting to relax and recuperate. If soft sandy beaches and snoozing under a palm tree sounds like your perfect escape, this is the place for you. Adrenaline junkies need not apply.

THE SUN

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a foodie’s dream with so many hidden restaurants to discover behind every street. Animal lovers will also marvel at the wild elephants, and options for safari explorations. This friendly country is less about the extravagant luxe, although you can of course find that too, but more about going back to the roots, with natural flavours, untouched beaches and lush forests.

Grey skies got you down? Escape to the tropics this winter

Words: Elise Kerr

Thailand

There are many experiences to be had in Thailand. From hedonistic all-night adventures to spiritual awakenings, cultural tours and foodie explorations. It’s a destination that you can visit over and over again and still uncover more on each visit. No matter which type of break you’re looking for, Thailand is a brilliant and affordable escape from bustling UAE life.

Maldives

Got the budget for a blow out? Maldives is one for the bucket list for so many reasons. Whether it’s the crystal-clear water and abundance of sea life, the infinity pools stretching out towards the ocean, the wholesome bike ride through your resort, or even the welcome downpours of tropical rain that are over as quick as they began. Maldives is a once in a lifetime experience that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Zanzibar

If the idea of being the only person on the beach bores you to tears, then Zanzibar might be more your flavour. The archipelago has something for everyone, with resorts ranging from the ultraluxury to wallet-friendly and homely. Parties are regularly held on the beaches, and sociable locals and tourists can be found everywhere you go, making it an ideal spot for solo travellers.

Seychelles

For a serene paradise that doesn’t come with the eye-watering price tag of the Maldives, Seychelles is a breathtaking option. Couples and families adore the archipelago for its numerous beaches, coral reefs and nature reserves, and rare animals. It’s also known for having lush tropical vegetation, stunning beaches and friendly locals.

Ever wondered what it’s like to try archery, off-roading, karting and shooting out of a pistol all in one day? Well then this is the competition for you. Al Forsan is giving away the opportunity to spend a day at the resort and participating in all sorts of fun activities, including a Saturday brunch for two, archery, a flight simulation, off-roading, and shooting 25 rounds from a pistol. T&Cs apply.

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

This one is designed for the little ones. This safe and supervised environment lets kids enjoy a wide variety of activities such as bouncing around, sliding and having just plain fun. This kind of play is essential for your little loved one social, cognitive and resilience skills. Junior Jumpers is giving away a total of 20 passes and while the kids play parents can enjoy JJ’s Cafe. T&Cs apply.

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

WIN!

A TWO NIGHT STAY AT LE MERIDIEN ABU DHABI

Treat yourself and a loved one to a proper weekend away at Le Méridien Abu Dhabi. This prize includes everything you could need to switch off and relax, with a Friday evening feast at Mediterranean restaurant, Mykonos, a 30-minute couples massage at Eden Spa,

and a comforting dinner with house drinks at Captain’s Arms. Plus, a night in a renovated guest room, and breakfast for two. T&Cs apply.

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

AT RADISSON BLU ABU DHABI

Check into a two night stay at Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi, complete with a jam-packed itinerary for the perfect staycation weekend. The prize includes a beachside brunch for two at West Bay Lounge, plus dinner for you and your guest in legendary pub Hemmingway’s, a two-night stay in a chic room and a couple’s 30 minute massage all thrown in. T&Cs apply.

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win

Words: Alice Holtham

DUBAI

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

Missing cosy evenings in a ski chalet overlooking Europe’s snowy peaks? Then you need to book yourself the next best thing: a snow-cation at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. Check-in to the hotel’s luxurious Aspen Ski Chalet, where you’ll be able to drift off to sleep overlooking the snowy slopes of Ski Dubai. The Aspen Ski Chalet rooms are finished just like a cosy ski chalet in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Authenticity is evident in every detail, right from the wooden hues and dimmed lighting to the stag fixtures adorning the walls, the faux fur throws and even a fire crackling in the fireplace (okay, it’s not real, but it definitely gives the full effect).

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, Aspen Ski Chalet rates from Dhs3,160. Tel: (0)4 341 0000. kempinski.com

‘TIS THE SEASON TO STAYCATION

Fabulous getaways on your doorstep with all the festive feels

RAS AL KHAIMAH

Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island

ABU DHABI

Trade

After the stress of silly season, take off for Marjan Island this winter and for Dhs1,350 per couple, you’ll be able to check-in to a double room at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island inclusive of breakfast and enjoy an array of culinary and leisure extras. There’s complimentary access to adults-only Ula with two sunbeds waiting with your name on across both days. Soak up the stunning Tulum-inspired interiors, stroll along the 300-metre beachfront, or take a dip in the turquoise infinity pool. There’s even lunch thrown in, which you can enjoy alongside two mixed drinks each. Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, rates from Dhs1,350. Blackout dates apply. Tel: (0)7 246 0199. ularasalkhaimah.com

a

village, this Arabian-style

over 22,000 square metres of tranquil desert. The Desert Exploration package is all about experiencing the magnificence of the desert first-hand, so you’ll check in to one of the Bedouin-inspired suites and villas and wake up to a breakfast of delectable flavours at Bait Al Hanine. Spend days exploring the dazzling desert dunes on horseback during a one-hour sunrise or sunset ride, then retreat to the infinity pool or pampering Saray Spa. Use code 11P to book. Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Al Wathba District, from Dhs2,500. Tel: (0)2 204 4444. marriott.com

Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

snow for sand and Christmas trees for palm trees at Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa. Drawing inspiration from

historic

desert resort sprawls