
20 minute read
YALLA
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

Christmas Eve
DECEMBER 24
Annex

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
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
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

Graphos Social Kitchen
Le Bistrot
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
Christmas Day DECEMBER 25
The WB Abu Dhabi

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

The Oak Room
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
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
Grills@Chill’O
Asia Asia
Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

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
COYA
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
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
Le Meridien Village

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

Flavours
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

WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE M other 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.
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


Mohamed Hamaki
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.
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.

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 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 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 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




EAT | DRINK | SHOP


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Michelin reveal


The inaugural Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi
