What's On November 2019

Issue 500

November 2019

IT’S

ISSUE

– LET’S CELEBRATE!

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PART YING IN THE UAE

BEST NIGHTCLUBS LADIES’ NIGHTS GENTS’ DEALS & BRUNCHES UAE DHS15

BRINGING THE BOLD IN NOVEMBER W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island is excited to bring a new beat to the Capital. Steal the scene and live it up at the hottest spot on Yas Island. Sip & Savour at the newest dining destination in the city. Fuel up or chill out at our rooftop WET Deck and meet & mingle your way at any occasion. #RevUp

For reservations wabudhabiyasisland.com 02 656 0000 ©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

CONTENTS 11/2019 IT’S PARTY TIME!

FEATURES

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NIGHTLIFE IN THE UAE P67

Page 14

14 MEGA MILESTONES

50

We look back over 500 epic issues of What’s On magazine

27 LIFE’S A BEACH The best beach clubs and pools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

41 DESERT OASES Where to spend a luxury staycation among the dunes

46 F1 WEEKEND There’s four big gigs on, plus many after-parties, and of course, the small matter of a Grand Prix

50 WHAT’S ON LOCK IN What’s On takes over Vida Creek Harbour for an amazing staycation

59 DHS500 UAE DEALS Awesome dinner deals across the country to celebrate our 500th issue

00

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CONTENTS COVER

REGULARS 10 Yalla!

Quick fix of news

152 Win! Loads of Dhs500 vouchers to spend at Dubai’s top restaurants

110

Cover: Sheila Deocareza

Stay in touch

95 CONSUME

Get On Get What's What's On onyour your tablet. on tablet.

96 EAT The great Reif Othman returns with a brilliant new restaurant in Dar Wasl; High expectations at Burj Khalifa’s new venue 3BK; and Jumeirah’s new Nikkei restaurant Kayto. Plus, Mazi, The Grill and Al Meylas in Abu Dhabi reviewed

136

147

Page 118

113 CULTURE

127 ACTIVE

114 AGENDA Six unmissable art events to attend this month

116 DESIGN DAYS

128 SPORT

Everything you need to know about Dubai Design Week

Dubai Fitness Challenge events; DP World Tour Championship; A huge wakeboarding contest in Abu Dhabi and much more

118 ABU DHABI ART The annual art fair returns to the capital. Plus, new events at the Cultural Foundation

122 4_What’s On_11.2019

122 FILM Are you ready to return to Arendelle for Frozen 2?

WhatsOn.ae Our stunning website is packed with news, restaurants, culture, shopping, sport and spas. It’s your online destination for stuff to do in the UAE. Get clicking.

138 WELL-BEING

What’s On Digital Your essential guide to what’s happening in the UAE is also available on the App Store.

Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnDubai

New spa treatments in the UAE

facebook.com/ WhatsOnDubai

147 TRAVEL

instagram.com/ WhatsOnDubai

Exploring Norway’s Arctic Circle

youtube.com/ WhatsOnDubai

Kids Water Academy Weekly every Sunday & Tuesday

Active Walk Nights Weekly every Monday Al Bateen Area

Diwali Night Market 25 - 27 October Capital Park

Sports Festival 1 - 2 November A’l Bahar

Al Reem Festival 17 - 19 October Reem Central Park

Poetry in the Majlis

Cycling Club 4 November weekly Cycling track

Drive-In Cinema 7 - 8 November

Constellation Nights 13 November & 11 December

Hudayriyat Sports Adventure 13 - 14 December

29 October, 19 November & 10 December

Al Bateen Majlis

Flower Market 2 November & 7 December Al Marasy Marina Tea & Coffee Festival 14 - 16 November Al Marasy Marina Symphony in the Park 23 November Umm Al Emarat Park BBQ Cookout 27 December Al Bateen Area

Open Mic Nights 6 November & 4 December Downtown venues

Flea Market 8 November & 13 December Lake Park

StrEAT Feast 6 - 7 December Electra Park

UrbaNation 14 - 23 November Formal Park

Indian Movie Night 19 - 21 December Capital Park

Winter Fest 12 - 21 December Formal Park

AbuDhabiMoments.ae @LiveTheMomentAD

Fright Night 31 October 1 November Reem Gateway Park Street Photography 2 November 2 December weekly Reem Island to Mina Artisan Market 22 November Sun & Sky Towers Garden Global Citizen 29 November 2 December Reem Central Park

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Gina Johnson gina@motivate.ae HEAD OF CONTENT – WHAT’S ON Laura Coughlin laura.coughlin@motivate.ae DIGITAL EDITOR Alice Holtham alice.holtham@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Elise Kerr elise.kerr@motivate.ae JUNIOR ONLINE REPORTER Lauren Fletcher lauren.fletcher@motivate.ae JUNIOR ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar aarti@motivate.ae VIDEO EDITOR Surajit Dutta surajit@motivate.ae VIDEOGRAPHER Steve Eraña steve.erana@motivate.ae WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi firoz@motivate.ae SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff olga.petroff@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza sheila@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Clarkwin Cruz clarkwin@motivate.ae JUNIOR DESIGNER Remy Thokchom thokchom.remy@motivate.ae PHOTOGRAPHERS Masam Ali, Mustufa Abidi

CONTRIBUTORS

Sarah Gamboni, Ann Marie McQueen, Anna Seaman, Alicia Swanson-Zajac

GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar sunil@motivate.ae PRODUCTION MANAGER Murali Krishnan muralik@motivate.ae ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran binu@motivate.ae PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto venita@motivate.ae CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne anthony@motivate.ae PUBLISHER David Burke davidb@motivate.ae GROUP SALES MANAGER Varsha Bhatia varsha@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Illy Langford illy.langford@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Taran Singh taran.singh@motivate.ae SENIOR DIGITAL SALES MANAGER Sabir Khodabux sabir.khodabux@motivate.ae

Annual Subscription UAE Dhs180 • GCC and International US$130 (inclusive of Postal charges) Head Office: Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel +971 4 427 3000; Fax +971 4 428 2270 Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae

Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

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EDITOR’S LETTER

WE HOPE YOU’VE GOT YOUR DANCING SHOES ON…

Sometimes, the What’s On team like to tell you about unexpectedly great, underthe-radar things. Things like secret menus or hidden gems in Karama. But when it comes to partying you just want to know the best of the best. The raise-the-roof, Lambos-and-discos, life-is-a-music-video, straight-up best party places in the UAE. Behold, dear readers, your guide to the coolest spots to dance, brunch, make merry and have loads of fun in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (p67).

Why are we in such a merry mood, you may ask. Well, we’re celebrating! Not only is 2019 our 40th anniversary of What’s On, but this lovely issue you hold in your hands is the 500th issue – a milestone we are all so proud of.

We’ve also had a lot of fun foraging though the What’s On archives this month.

We’ve chatted to past editors, dissected the first ever issue, and picked out some of What’s On’s most memorable moments. You can see the fruits of our labour from p14. With so much nostalgia, you’d be forgiven for thinking that there might be an element of us resting on our laurels, but I promise you that is not, and never will be, the case. Just in this issue alone, we’ve reviewed all the best beach clubs and pools in the country, uncovered the most luxurious desert resorts, and, after the phenomenal success of our inaugural What’s On Lock In, we’re doing it all again this month at the gorgeous Vida Creek Harbour (see p50). For just Dhs699, join us for the best staycation you’ll ever have. And, if you can’t find what you’re looking for here, hop on over to WhatsOn.ae – the best website on the planet (note: editor’s decision is final) – for everything you could possibly ever want to know about the UAE. For now, please do enjoy this 500th issue – and we’ll see you on the dancefloor...

Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnDubai

8_What’s On_11.2019

facebook.com/ WhatsOnDubai

instagram.com/ WhatsOnDubai

youtube.com/ WhatsOnDubai

SEE

Fleabag The hilarious, awardwinning, one-woman show – written and performed by Phoebe WallerBridge – that inspired the BBC’s smash hit TV series Fleabag will be broadcast live from London’s West End and screened at The Courtyard Playhouse on November 29 and 30. q courtyardplay house.com

SEE

The Phantom of the Opera You have until November 9 to see Andrew Lloyd Webber’s incredible musical at Dubai Opera. Go, smile, and in the words of the Phantom himself: savour each sensation. q dubaiopera.com

BACK AT BRUNCH LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

Soak up the WEEKEND vibe at Akira back dubai. enjoy a sharing-style brunch, the perfect blend of east meets west. turn up your friday with fab views and great food.

AED 445 PER PERSON WITH soft beverages AED 545 PER PERSON WITH house beverages Fridays, 12:30PM – 4:00PM Fifth Floor, W Dubai – The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah T+971 4 245 5800 | akirabackdubai@whotels.com | akirabackdubai.com | kids below 6 YEARS dine free; Kids 6 to 12 years RECEIVE 50% off

@akirabackdubai

BRILLIANT THINGS TO DO THIS NOVEMBER

Party in the Park 01

When: November 1 Fatboy Slim, Richard Ashcroft and Lighthouse Family headline What’s On’s mega music festival, complete with food trucks, family-friendly zone and artisan stalls. a Media City Amphitheatre, Dubai Media City, 2pm to 1am.

Tel: (04) 4273000. partyinthepark.ae

07 TRIBUTE TO BRUNO MARS When: November 7 Talented British singer Bran Mazz and his live band The MB’s perform a tribute concert at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club dedicated to Bruno Mars. a Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, 6.30pm.

Tel: (056) 5362230. adgolfclub.com

07 TASTE OF ABU DHABI

When: November 7 to 9 Abu Dhabi’s annual food, drink and music festival returns to the du Arena. a du Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Thur 4pm to midnight, Fri noon to midnight, Sat noon to 11pm. Tel: (02) 5098143. tasteabudhabi.com

LATEST NEWS: Abu Dhabi toll gates to be free until January 2020; New festival LUVYA to launch 10_What’s On_11.2019

15 DUA LIPA LIVE

15 TOUGH MUDDER

When: November 15 Award-winning British pop sensation Dua Lipa headlines a one-night-only concert at The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah, set to perform a collection of her best hits on a special over-water stage. a The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, 4pm.

Tel: (04) 390 9999. ticketmaster.ae

Photo: Markus-Pritzi

When: November 15 The world-renowned obstacle course challenge, Tough Mudder, returns for its third year running during the final weekend of the Dubai Fitness Challenge 2019. a Dubai Festival City, from 7:30am. toughmudder.ae

21 YOGAFEST When: November 21 to 23 Yogafest returns to Dubai for a three-day programme jampacked with free activities for yoga enthusiasts of all abilities.

Expect over 100 yoga classes, meditation sessions, all in a beautiful setting. a Dubai Internet City Amphitheatre, Thur 7pm to 10pm, Fri 9am to 7pm, Sat 8am to 6pm. Free. yogafest.me

08 OKTOBERFEST IN MEDIA CITY

When: November 8 It’s your last chance to enjoy the Oktoberfest M’City’s Big Bavarian Brunch featuring German specialities. a Grand Plaza Movenpick Media City, Fri, Dhs429 with house drinks and beer. @gpmovenpick

22 WHAT’S ON LOCK IN

When: November 22 to 23 The best UAE staycation returns.

Join us at the brand-new uber-chic waterfront destination Vida Creek Harbour for the weekend of your dreams… q whatson.ae/lock-in

28 F1 ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX

When: November 28 to December 1 The final race of the Formula 1 Grand Prix season returns to Abu Dhabi with four days of exhilarating racing action, and amazing after-race concerts. a Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi.

Tel: (0)2 659 9800. yasmarinacircuit.com

at FIVE Palm Jumeirah in December; Dubai Police unveils world’s first floating police station 11.2019_What’s On_11

Deals of the month

What’s coming?

Dates for your UAE diary

Dec 5 to 7

DXB: Chicago Meatpackers lunch deal Pet-friendly steakhouse at The Pointe serves a twocourse lunch deal and a glass of wine for only Dhs99 from Sunday to Thursday. a The Pointe, Sun to Thur noon to 4pm, Dhs99. chicagomeatpackers.com

AUD: Balcon Terrace fondue Get dipping daily with a selection of cheese fondue flavours served with bread, meatballs, steak cubes, roasted veggies and more. a Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, daily 3pm to 1am, from Dhs69. tsogosun.com

For all your daily UAE news, visit whatson.ae

Dec 19 to 21

Two huge sporting events Rugby and tennis take centre stage in Dubai and Abu Dhabi In Dubai, big tackles, big crowds and a big party add up to a riotous weekend at the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens taking place at the Sevens Stadium from December 5 to 7. The event celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and sees Kylie Minogue performing live. Meanwhile in the capital, tennis superstar Rafael Nadal leads an all-star line-up for this year’s Mubadala World Tennis Championship from December 19 to 21. He’ll be joined by Daniil Medvedev, as well as Maria Sharapova and Amanda Anisimova. q mubadalawtc.com and dubairugby7s.com

Everyone’s talking about…

1

2

3

4

5

UAE ATTRACTIONS From sky walks to snow parks, there’s so much still to come across the UAE

MARIAH CAREY A free concert by a pop icon? Expo 2020 celebrated its one year to Expo 2020 mark in style last month

HAZZA AL MANSOURI The first Emirati astronaut returned to the UAE after his historic space mission

ALFRESCO BREAKFASTS Now it’s finally outdoor dining season, it’s all we want to do

NEW UAE RULES The new laws about purchasing alcohol was a big topic on WhatsOn.ae last month 11.2019_What’s On_13

14_What’s On_11.2019

A lot has happened since this magazine was born in 1979. This month, the current What’s On team has searched through the archives to pick out some of our favourite ever What’s On moments. Enjoy!

11.2019_What’s On_15

5 0 0 TH I S S U E

Here’s a whistle-stop tour of What’s On moments through the years

George Best

Chris De Burgh performs in Abu Dhabi

What’s On celebrates 10 years

1991

1989

WHAT’S ON ASKS PAST EDITORS… What’s the weirdest thing you ever did in the line of What’s On duty?

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Football star George Best speaks exclusively to What’s On

What’s On celebrates 5 years

1984 MARK EVANS GROUP EDITOR What’s On 2007-2018 “I sat in the Editor’s chair at What’s On for almost 11 years. That’s a long time.

Longer still, given it was actually the same chair. But what fun that chair and I saw.

I was very lucky, in that I always had a fantastic team around me, who never thought ideas too crazy –

“This magazine is not to be taken too seriously – it’s intended to be fun” - Ian Fairservice What’s On, the region’s first magazine, is launched

1979

What’s On publisher Ian Fairservice joins forces with HE Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, now the UAE’s Minster For State Finance

1981

We love her!

Tina Turner rocks Dubai’s Hyatt Regency

Meeting boxing legend Muhammad Ali for an exclusive interview

What’s On hosts footballing legend Sir Bobby Moore at the What’s On penthouse

1983

1982

1981

and who came up with just as many crazy ideas of their own. Shall we get someone to spray-paint a wall with the What’s On logo? What if we knit this month’s cover? Hey – let’s paint a fish gold! (to be

clear – it was a fish gold, not a goldfish – a salmon, that we dipped in gold paint).

It wasn’t all aquatic decoration. There was also food – oh, so much food. A room full of pizzas, burgers

or curries at 9am, for rating purposes, wasn’t unusual, any more than the challenges of eating the UAE’s hottest chilli or biggest steak. I drove any number of flash cars (they always asked for them back),

saw the world, and was on first name terms with the Al Hallab Lebanese takeaway, who we called every deadline day.

I could go on forever, because we did so much…”

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5 0 0 TH I S S U E Another historic moment!

Ian Fairservice cutting the cake with HE Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

The Spice Girls take to the stage at Cyclone in Dubai

What’s On celebrates 15 years

What’s On celebrates 20 years

1997

1994

1999

,

Party, party party

WhatsOn.ae reaches 1.7million pageviews in October

The first What’s On Lock In takes place at Studio One Hotel

What’s On celebrates 40 years

2019 WHAT’S ON ASKS PAST EDITORS… What’s the weirdest thing you ever did in the line of What’s On duty?

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ROB CHILTON SENIOR EDITOR What’s On 2013 – 2015 “Chatting to a penguin named Pumpkin?

Pedaling an exercise bike

The first What’s On Party in the Park gets underway headlined by Lily Allen

2014 underwater? Trying to bounce on a trampoline and then slam dunk a basketball? (that one hurt). Interviewing a (very fast and fit) marathon runner while puffing

alongside him?

I found myself doing some colourful jobs in my time at What’s On. But probably the oddest afternoon was being photographed while

Ian and Jan Fairservice cutting more cakes together with HE Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Emirates Towers opens – then the tallest building in the Middle East

The first ever What’s On Awards takes place

2000

2002

What’s On celebrates 25 years

“News, views, things to do. If it’s on, we’re on it”

2004 Even Jermaine Jackson joins in the celebrations!

- What’s On

WhatsOn.ae is launched

What’s On celebrates 30 years

Burj Khalifa becomes the world’s tallest freestanding structure

2013

2009

2007

eating a huge five-course brunch. “What’s so odd about that?” you ask. I was wearing a tummytightening Spanx vest, that’s what. I will never forget the looks - and

giggles - of nearby diners at The Ivy restaurant as I gingerly lifted up my shirt for the photographer to capture my swelling stomach, trapped beneath sweaty nylon

that sucked me in like a hungry boa constrictor. It worked though - that vest made me look like I had the abs of Ryan Gosling.”

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ISSUE NO.1

Leafing through the first edition of What’s On from 1979, a picture emerges of a very different UAE...

02

01

Elsewhere on the music scene, Peaches disco got people dancing at the Marbella Club in Sharjah, playing the likes of Rod Stewart and Boney M.

The Dune Beat mobile disco was doing a roaring trade in 1979, playing at hotels and social clubs, with What’s On founder and editor Ian Fairservice at the turntables.

The most requested hits were YMCA by The Village People, I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor and the Bee Gees’ classic Tragedy.

The piece also reports that, although punk music was all the rage in the UK in 1979, any time they played it in Dubai the dance floor emptied.

Rod Stewart

03

04

Dubai Sheraton Hotel was offering a dinner and a cabaret show called Fiesta Filipina featuring Cynthia Patag and her dancers for Dhs95.

WHAT’S ON ASKS PAST EDITORS… What’s the weirdest thing you ever did in the line of What’s On duty?

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TOM URQUHART DEPUTY EDITOR What’s On 2001 - 2004 “I remember doing a piece on bands, or music, or something along those lines – it’s a bit blurry as it was years ago. The

feature demanded a recreation of Bruce Springsteen’s iconic Born In The USA album cover.

We sourced all the necessary props – faded blue jeans, white tee, red cap – well, all except a model, so guess who had to jump in? Me!

Chalet Suisse restaurant had an Italian dinner deal running that included soup or pasta followed by a main course for Dhs40. Sadly, it closed down in 1979 when new laws made it mandatory for establishments to have a liquor licence.

The editor at the time – Jason Leavy – then decided it would make a nice cover. It’s the first, and last, front cover I’ve ever appeared on. Bit of a bum deal.”

ADVERTISEMENT

A TASTE OF BEAUTY Be transported to the south of France at L’Occitane Café Dubai

A

lmond shower oil.

Shea butter hand cream. Immortelle reset serum. Not the kinds of items you’d expect to find in a café, but then again, you’ve probably never been to L’Occitane Café.

Over the past few years, the iconic skincare and beauty brand has opened several cafes around the world, including China, Japan, France and the UK, and the latest to open, in City Walk, Dubai is its most exciting to date and the first ever to open in the Middle East.

Serving as a hybrid venue, at the L’Occitane Café City Walk, you can discover the latest launches from the natural beauty brand, enjoy free head and hand massages at the L’Occitane massage bar, and taste the flavours of 01. the south of France – all in Gnocchi Daube one visit.

Dhs89 Pairing fragrance with flavour, L’Occitane Café’s 02.

Raclette Provence-inspired mocktail Burger Dhs95 menu incorporates many of

01

THREE MOCKTAILS TO TRY

These larger-than life concoctions, inspired

by L’Occitane’s iconic collections must be seen to be believed…

1 Bicycle of the sun (Dhs55) Inspired by L’Occitane Immortelle collection This is riding through the fields of Provence in a glass, combining pineapple with lemon juice and a touch of vanilla syrup infused with immortelle flowers.

the natural ingredients found in some of their cosmetic products. For example, there’s the adaption of immortelle flowers (used in L’Occitane’s skincare collection) inside the beautiful Bicycle of the Sun mocktail, and lavender (used in

02

L’Occitane’s bath products) infused into the Rainbow mocktail.

Meanwhile, the gourmet cuisine, inspired by the south of France, is as decadent as the drinks. Try the crispy almond encrusted calamari (another nod to the brand’s use of almond in its bodycare range), a hearty beef short rib, slowcooked and tender and served with pillowy potato gnocchi, or the juicy raclette burger, where the patty is topped tableside with liquified raclette cheese and cradled in a turmeric flavoured brioche bun. Gourmet, decadent, and wonderfully indulgent.

2 Secret garden (Dhs48)

Inspired by L’Occitane Verbena collection A refreshing mix of mint leaves, cucumber, lemon yuzu juice and a signature verbena syrup, served beneath an exotic tree.

3 L’Occitane rainbow (Dhs55)

Inspired by L’Occitane Lavender collection Rainbows meet lavender fields in this grapefruit & pineapple blend with lavender syrup.

L’OCCITANE CAFE, CITY WALK, DUBAI, SUN TO WED 9AM TO 11PM, THUR TO SAT 9AM TO MIDNIGHT. TEL: (04) 3461825. @LOCCITANECAFE

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ISSUE NO. 1...

08

#123456

dnata was busy launching its ‘coloursplashed’ Holiday Book filled with destination ideas for UAE residents – as can be seen from this animated full page advertisement.

05

Telephone numbers in Dubai and Sharjah only had six digits.

06

At the White Oryx pub a popular starter was the Grapefruit Washington. Their set three-course lunch menu was priced Dhs35.

Listings for TV channels (which broadcast from 6am to 10.30pm) included shows such as Wagon Train, US soap opera General Hospital, Rising Damp and The Secret Life Of Baron Von Der Trenck.

08

07

You could kit out your two or three-bedroom house at Habitat furniture store for Dhs24,000.

WHAT’S ON ASKS PAST EDITORS… What’s your most memorable What’s On moment?

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KATE SIMPSON EDITOR What’s On 1988-1991 “I remember hearing that Ian was launching a magazine back in 1979.

I was working in Bahrain at the time. Then in 1984, he offered me

the deputy editor role (he was then editor) for What’s On. I jumped at the chance and so began my wonderful time there. I will never forget our 10th anniversary celebrations at the Hyatt Galleria in 1989. During Ian’s speech, he announced he

was handing over the editorship of What’s On to… me! I couldn’t take it in at the time. It was a huge surprise.

So, I became the first editor, if one discounts the founder and all-round great man himself! I will always be so grateful.”

5 0 0 TH I S S U E S

WHAT’S ON

BY NUMBERS

2,400

RESTAURANTS REVIEWED

40 EST

338

CELEBRITY INTERVIEWS Gordon Ramsay, Muhammad Ali, Liam Neeson, Lenny Henry, Diddy, Elmo – What’s On loves to chat to the stars

Elmo

YEARS OF BOREDOMBUSTING IN THE UAE

ISSUES MAGAZINE OF WHAT’S ON

6.4 MILLION

Scoville Heat Units (SHU) – in the world’s spiciest chicken wings we once tried to eat.

For comparison, police pepper spray is a meager 5 million SHU

What’s your most memorable What’s On moment?

PEOPLE VISITING WHATSON.AE EVERY MONTH

Gordon Ramsay

1979

WHAT’S ON ASKS PAST EDITORS…

864,000

Diddy

EPIC WHAT’S ON PARTY IN THE PARK FESTIVALS WITH LIAM GALLAGHER, LILY ALLEN, STEREOPHONICS, KAISER CHIEFS AND FATBOY SLIM ON THE BILL

er Liam Gallagh

1,230

WHAT’S ON AWARDS HANDED OUT

4.5

KILOMETRES

JACK PEARCE ASSISTANT EDITOR What’s On 1988 “I once went to a press con at Emirates being given by their CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al Maktoum, where I was the only

Total length ziplined in the UAE by the What’s On team

non-Arabic speaking attendee.

It was at the oval table in their boardroom, so I positioned myself after the curve, where I was virtually blocked from view. However, after he had made his opening remarks in Arabic, he leaned forward to look

at me and asked: “Would you like an exclusive interview in English after everyone else has gone?” It was a special moment, and not every day that a monthly mag manages to get a scoop ahead of all the daily newspapers!”

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A LOOK BACK AT...

OUR WHAT’S ON CELEBRITY ENCOUNTERS OVER THE YEARS With 40 years and 500 issues of the magazine to look back on there will always be some experiences that stand out more than others…

IAN FAIRSERVICE Managing Partner & Group Editor

I

’ve been privileged to have met, and in many cases interviewed, a wide spectrum of personalities, from former astronaut and fighter pilot Buzz Aldrin, photographers David Bailey and Lord (Patrick) Lichfield (far right) to international sportsmen such as Niki Lauda (below), John Watson and Keke Rosberg. I wrote previously in this column about my interview with the legendary Muhammad Ali – add to that these three Formula One world champions and the likes of tennis ace Björn Borg (right) and soccer legends Georgie

Above: I interviewed Niki Lauda along with two other former F1 World champions Keke Rosberg and John Watson. Above right: Interviewing Swedish former world No. 1 tennis player Björn Borg. Right: Dining with English celebrity chef Keith Floyd.

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Best (top right), Bobby Moore and Pelé and well, that’s quite a list to start with.

Of the many entertainers that I’ve interviewed, three ladies stand out in particular. Last month I mentioned Tina Turner, the other two were the indefatigable Dame Shirley Bassey and a lady who Orson Welles described as “the most exciting woman in the world,” soul singer Eartha Kitt. She described herself to me as an “urchin from the south.” The father, who she never knew, was white and abandoned Eartha’s mother when she was just a baby. Five years later, her mother discarded Eartha because her pale complexion offended her boyfriend. She was given away, uncertain at exactly what age, but she

5 0 0 TH I S S U E Left: Scoring an interview with legendary footballer George Best.

Bottom left: At a photo shoot with Lord Patrick Lichfield

was brought up in a family who mistreated her badly, virtually treating her as a slave.

Eartha survived though, having “picked the garbage cans of Harlem” as she told me and it was pure joy watching her in concert in 1985 at the Al Ain Hilton. Shirley Bassey appeared in Dubai the following October.

Her magnificent voice sparked off rapturous applause and a standing ovation. It was the first of many concerts she was destined to perform in the UAE. Some of those I interviewed, such as Patrick Lichfield, chef Keith Floyd and Georgie Best

visited Dubai on a number of occasions and became good friends. My first meeting with George was when I interviewed him in February 1984 at the Hyatt Regency hotel. This was four years after Best had finally admitted he was an alcoholic, returned to Britain for an ill-fated spell with the London club Fulham and a major row with her Majesty’s tax inspectors. Bankruptcy followed and inevitably pressures built up, leading to a succession of prolonged sessions in rehab.

The last time I saw Georgie was in his local pub in Chelsea where we met for breakfast to watch the England-Australia Rugby World Cup Final in 2003. At one point I leaned across and asked him why he seemed to be more excited every time Australia scored than when England did. He said, “I’ve got a thousand pounds on Australia to win”.

I told him I didn’t care how much he’d bet on Australia because people were watching him and I reckoned it would be a great idea if he at least pretended to support England!

It was classic Georgie...

“I’VE BEEN PRIVILEGED TO HAVE INTERVIEWED A WIDE SPECTRUM OF PERSONALITIES.” 11.2019_What’s On_25

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LET’S BRUNCH

Michelin-star Chef Akira Back

Five legendary brunches to enjoy at Caesars Bluewaters Dubai

Friday: Hellicious Brunch at Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen A fiery brunch for the foodies, perfect for fans of the hit TV show, Hell’s Kitchen. Chefs split into teams of red and blue constantly top up the extensive starter buffet, followed by a choice of a la carte mains from a selection of Gordon Ramsay’s signature dishes. Dessert is a real highlight, inviting guests to compete in an Eton Mess Challenge judged by head chef, Craig Best, for a chance to win dinner for two.

Hellicious Brunch, Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs350 soft, Dhs450 house, Dhs500 prosecco, Dhs600 champagne.

Friday: FamilyFest Brunch at Bacchanal Promising to be the best family day out in Dubai, Secret Circus Brunch at Paru

a selection of salads and starters along with fresh seafood and cuts of meat from a live grill station, including local-sourced seabream, red snapper and tiger prawns.

Le BBQ, The Sandbar & Grill, Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai, Fri 6pm to 9pm, Dhs250 soft, Dhs350 house.

FamilyFest Brunch at Bacchanal

every Friday Bacchanal transforms into a fullyinteractive festival complete with inflatable castles, magic tricks, cooking classes, superhero meet and greets and gaming stations.

FamilyFest Brunch, Bacchanal, Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai, Fri 1pm to 5pm, free for children under 5, Dhs150 children under 12, Dhs300 soft, Dhs400 house, Dhs500 prosecco, Dhs600 champagne.

Friday: Secret Circus Brunch at Paru The city’s latest party brunch is Secret Circus Brunch at rooftop restaurant, Paru.

Kicking off at 1pm, hot and cold sharing starters kick

things off, followed by a choice of an a la carte main, and finishing with a wheel of desserts. A live sushi station will also compliment the a la carte service, so you can fill up on unlimited sushi between courses. Expect Geishas, live percussionists, multi-skilled circus acts and a live DJ. Secret Circus Brunch, Paru, Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai, Fri 1pm to 5pm, Dhs299 soft, Dhs399 house, Dhs499 sparkling, Dhs599 champagne.

Friday: Le BBQ at The Sandbar & Grill Kicking off at 6pm, Le BBQ is perfect for catching the sunset. Pile your plate with Cleo’s Feast

Saturday: Cleo’s 2-FOR-1 Feast at Cleo’s Table LIMITED TIME Feast alfresco on DEAL! Mediterranean classics including hand-made artisan pizzas, salads and mouthwatering flatbreads with a Saturday brunch complete with free-flowing drinks.

When you’ve filled up on food, enjoy access to the adults-only Venus Pool.

Cleo’s Feast, Cleo’s Table, Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai, Sat noon to 3pm, Dhs300 soft, Dhs400 house.

MAKE A DAY OF IT AT CLEO’S TABLE You can also enjoy the new Cleo’s Daycation, a weekday pool and lunch deal where you’ll get access to the gorgeous Venus pool from 10am to 7pm as well as a freshly-cooked, three-course Mediterranean lunch, paired with a glass of wine for Dhs250. Grab a book and settle in for a bit of me-time while you catch the rays.

Cleo’s Daycation, Cleo’s Table, Caesars Resort Bluewaters Dubai, weekdays noon to 3pm, pool access 10am to 7pm, Dhs250.

FOR BOOKINGS, CALL (04) 5566466 OR VISIT CAESARS.COM/DUBAI

BEACH CLUBS

From chic and elite to cool and casual, the UAE has a beach club to suit every taste and budget. Here are the best

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BEACH CLUBS

DUBAI

Andreea’s

Andreea’s When you’re looking for a little Saturday afternoon pick-me up pool brunch – without the hardcore partying of somewhere like Zero Gravity – Andreea’s at the Habtoor Grand provides. It recently had a refurb and the pool, now three times its original size, is back looking better than ever. Spend your day at the swim-up pool bar or settle into one of the in-pool loungers to catch some rays. The music is loud and upbeat, however people tend to just chill in their groups in the pool, which has some great levels to it for sitting and basking in the shallow water as you catch up. They do a ladies’ day on a Tuesday and Saturday from noon to 6pm with free-flowing rose and a mixed food platter for a purse-friendly Dhs125.

Price: Dhs200 weekdays, Dhs250 weekends; Ladies Day Tue and Sat, Dhs125 a Andreea’s, Habtoor Grand, Dubai Marina, daily 9am until late. Tel: (04) 4084400. andreeas.ae 28_What’s On_11.2019

Azure

Azure Looking for a lazy, relaxing day by the pool? Azure Beach wins for its oh-so-comfortable double sun beds alone. The poolside dishes are delicious, offering up light bites such as prawn tacos and sushi. If you’re feeling more peckish, a must-try is the Bresaola pizza. With sliced Bresaola beef, pearl tomato and shaved parmesan, it’s a little more sophisticated than your average poolside pizza. The pool itself is super-chilled and family-friendly. Azure offers up some awesome ladies’ day deals on Mondays and Tuesdays, with free pool access for the first 100 ladies to arrive, along with the option to buy a voucher for five drinks for Dhs100.

Azure

Price: Sun to Thur Dhs300 with Dhs100 to redeem on f&b; Fri and Sat Dhs400 with Dhs200 to redeem on f&b a Azure Beach, Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR, Dubai, daily 10am to 11pm. Tel: (052) 7779472. azure-beach.com

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STAYCATION IN STYLE WITH HYATT HOTELS & RESORTS From beautiful beach resorts to urban escapes, brilliant perks and appealing Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi discounts make for a memorable stay with these UAE staycation deals

Park Hyatt Dubai

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas

breakfast included at a reduced rate of 25 per cent off, valid on published rates from now until Jan 2020. Blackout dates from Dec 27, 2019 to Jan 4, 2020, apply. The offer is valid for UAE residents only.

A luxury oasis in the capital, escape to an island sanctuary on the pristine shores of Saadiyat at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi. Check in to one of the luxurious rooms, suites and villas and enjoy a 10 per cent discount on standard room rates, daily buffet breakfast and 20 per cent off spa treatments and food and drink deals. Valid on bookings made

by Feb 28, 2020 for stays until April 30, 2020. The offer is valid for UAE residents only.

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Grand Hyatt Dubai

Park Hyatt Dubai This Creekside property ticks all the boxes for a relaxing city staycation.

Enjoy 10 per cent off standard room rates and 20 per cent off spa treatments and restaurants and bars across the resort when booking between Nov 3 and Dec 15, 2019.

Experience high end luxury and book a stay in the hotel’s premium suites with

For more information, visit hyatt.com

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi focus on the little things, so you can be sure of a memorable and welcoming stay. Book by Dec 31 for stays up until Mar 2020 and enjoy a 10 per cent discount on standard room rates, an upgrade to the next room category, complimentary buffet breakfast and late check out. The offer is valid for UAE residents only.

Grand Hyatt Dubai

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi

Book a staycation at Grand Hyatt Dubai and enjoy 20 per cent off the best available rate, complimentary upgrade to the next room category and a lavish buffet breakfast. Pamper yourself with 15 per cent off treatments at Ahasees Spa, while the little ones can play for less at the Kids Club, where you’ll enjoy a 40 per cent discount. Offer valid on stays until Jan 31.

The offer is valid for GCC residents only.

BEACH CLUBS

DUBAI

Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE

Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE Open on Fridays and Saturdays, Blue Marlin is a stalwart among the UAE’s party hard beach clubs. Entry is free if you’re either dining, or on the guestlist for their Friday day-to-night party, which regularly sees in international acts headline. On Saturdays, Blue Marlin hosts a brunch which is much more laid back, with options to enjoy brunch on your bed by the beach or in the Balearic-inspired restaurant. Go on Friday if you want to party hard, or head down on Saturday if it’s a relaxing daycation with top tunes you’re after.

Price: Prices vary according to events taking place a Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE, Al Jazira Hotels and Resort, Ghantoot, Fri and Sat 1pm to 11pm. Tel: (056) 1133400. bluemarlinibiza-uae.com 30_What’s On_11.2019

games nights to enjoy. The venue is split into pool, lounge and restaurant areas, where you’ll find a varied selection of international bites.

Price: Weekdays Dhs100 per person (incl one house drink or two soft drinks + a towel); Wed and weekends Dhs150 (incl one house drink or two soft drinks + a towel) a Cove Beach Dubai, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Island, Sun to Wed 10am to 1am, Thur to Sat 10am to 3am. Tel: (050) 4546920. covebeach.com

Cove Beach

Cove Beach Even before the move to luxe hotel Caesars Palace Bluewaters Island, Cove Beach was a firm part of Dubai’s daytime party scene. Since relocating to Bluewaters in late 2018, the beach club continues to grow in popularity. With a sold-out ladies’ day nearly every Wednesday and a guaranteed

lively vibe each weekend, Cove is the ideal medium between relaxing and partying under the sun. When night falls, the energy increases, with regular resident DJ sets dropping R&B and hip-hop classics until 3am every Thursday and Friday.

If you’re looking for a more chilled evening, there’s also acoustic nights and even retro

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LET’S GO OUTSIDE! There’s more than one way to enjoy the sunshine at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR

Chill + Grill Saturday brunch at Palm Grill

TIME: Sat 1pm to 4pm (pool and beach access 10am to 6pm) It’s picture-perfect dining and beachside bliss as Palm Grill returns with a fresh new menu and brunch packages.

Providing a rustic charm alongside a beachside BBQ, the ever-popular Chill & Grill brunch now includes access to the resort’s five outdoor swimming pools, exclusive private beach and the option of adding a 30-minute treatment at the award-winning spa.

PRICE: Dhs395 with soft drinks and pool access, Dhs495 with house drinks and pool access; Dhs175 for children incl pool access.

Pool and Beach Days

Flavours of Arabia at Amaseena

TIME: Daily 7pm to 11pm Experience a culinary journey through the Gulf, surrounded

by Bedouin-inspired tents and palm trees swaying in the gentle sea breeze. Try traditional Middle Eastern cuisine from succulent meats to freshly-caught seafood, followed by delicate Arabian sweets. There are theme nights every Wednesday and Thursday along with live Arabic music, exotic belly dancing and shisha.

PRICE: Dhs249 for regular buffet, Dhs299 for seafood buffet, Dhs299 on Wed and Thur theme nights.

TIME: Daily 9am to 6pm Celebrate cooler climes with a day at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai.

Enjoy the cool green lawns across the resort’s 400,000 square feet of landscaped gardens and views out over the fronds of Palm Jumeirah.

Then bask in the sun’s rays from the cushioned comfort of a sun lounger on the pristine private beach.

PRICE: Sun to Thur Dhs299 with Dhs150 back on F&B; Fri and Sat Dhs399 with Dhs150 back on F&B. Dhs100 for children.

SPA-CATION AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, DUBAI

This season, enjoy an indulgent spa day away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Begin your day of pampering with a 60-minute massage, followed by a two-course lunch in La Baie or the signature Afternoon Tea experience in The Lobby Lounge. This holistic journey includes of day access to all the spa facilities including plunge pools, steam rooms and relaxation lounges along with the resort’s swimming pools and the only private beach along JBR, overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

Price: Dhs580* per person on weekdays; Dhs680* per person on weekends

FOR BOOKINGS, CALL +971 4 399 4000, EMAIL DINE.DUBAI@RITZCARLTON.COM OR SPA.DUBAI@RITZCARLTON.COM OR VISIT RITZCARLTON.COM/DUBAI

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LIFE IN THE LIMELIGHT

It’s lights, camera, action for Dubai’s hotly-anticipated opening of Paramount Hotel Dubai

OPENING

NOVEMBER 15

B

ringing timeless Hollywood elegance to life, the eagerly awaited Paramount Hotel Dubai by Paramount Pictures opens this month, embodying the very essence of the Californian lifestyle.

Located in Business Bay, Paramount Hotel Dubai combines exquisite design, warm service, stellar entertainment and premium dining, combined magically to mark a new chapter for the brand and to set a rare standard in luxury of hospitality. Here’s a look inside…

ROOMS

There are 823 rooms and suites grouped into Scene and Stage Guest Rooms; Premiere Suites and Paramount Suites; and themed suites taking inspiration from Paramount Pictures movies including The Godfather’s Don Vito Corleone gangster suite complete with dark leather chesterfields, and bespoke barber room. All 69 floors of the hotel have exclusive never seen before, behind-thescenes photography from their movies.

DINING

With no less than eight f&b offerings, each dining outlet at Paramount Hotel Dubai brims with history and glamour, paying homage to the magic of motion pictures, stand-up comedy, theatre productions and performing arts. Highlights include the Paramount Screening Room, a private cinema and stage serving a side of light gourmet bites and bubbles. There’s also Pacific Groove, a beautiful Californian bar and restaurant offering a curation of sizzling grilled seafood, woodfired steaks, fresh salads and a Raw bar. Meanwhile, Flashback is a speakeasy bar & lounge serving custom cocktails, The Cheat is the exceptionally unique Paramount Chocolate Lab; The Stage is the hotel’s main restaurant; and Malibu Deck its glorious poolside bar complete with cool food truck.

SPECIAL SPOILER PACKAGE Be one of the first to spend the night at Paramount Hotel Dubai. The deal includes a room rate plus breakfast and a pool barbecue for just Dhs549.

The offer is valid from December 1 until December 22.

T&C’s apply.

For more information, visit paramounthotelsdubai.com or follow @paramounthoteldubai

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BEACH CLUBS

COMING SOON!

DUBAI

TWO HUGE BEACH CLUBS TO LOOK OUT FOR…

Drift Beach Dubai A tip for those visiting Drift, the adult-only beach club located on the pristine shores next to One&Only Royal Mirage: get there early and grab yourself a daybed by the gorgeous swimming pool; these prime lounging spots are in demand. If you would rather spend some quiet time with your friends or significant other, opt for one of the more private (and more expensive) VIP double cabanas perched in tiers above the pool, or on the perfectly manicured lawn down by the beach. When you’ve had your fill of relaxing and posing for pics on the enormous swinging daybed, head to the restaurant for an extraordinary lunch, which ranges from gourmet salmon poke bowls to classic chicken shawarmas. Oh, and don’t forget to order their French fries, which are, in our opinion, some of the best in Dubai.

On Monday and Tuesday, it’s ladies’ day where girls can enjoy a cocktail and a daybed for Dhs100.

Price: Dhs200 (single bed, weekdays). Dhs250 (single bed, weekends); Ladies’ Day Mon and Tue Dhs100 Drift Beach Dubai

Nikki Beach

a One&Only Royal Mirage, Duabi, daily 10.30am to 8pm (pool and beach), 12.30pm to 5.30pm (restaurant). Tel: (04) 3152200. driftbeachdubai.com

the middle is the elevated DJ booth that, by sunset, typically has a lively crowd surrounding it dancing to vocal house hits.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe go mid-week, or Nikki Beach opt for their Rose Saturdays Firmly cemented on the brunch, or for the biggest international map as party in town, head down one of the world’s on Tuesday for best beach club ladies’ day. While BOOK THIS brands, Nikki Nikki Beach Dig out your best all-white Beach Dubai outfits and come celebrate as the runs several annual Nikki Beach White Party is perched on weekly events, returns on November 2. This the edge of keep an year’s theme is Masquerade, with the beautiful beach club set to Pearl Jumeira, eye on their transform into a unique carnival. and designed website and Saturday November 2 12pm to 9pm to wow. The social media central oval pool channels for is separated by a announcements of walkway, which doubles its biggest parties – such up as a catwalk, while day beds as the annual White Party and line the water’s edge. As well as their birthday bash. three rows of cabanas poolside, Price: Weekdays, Dhs150 per there are also beds on the person (with a Dhs100 food beach, ideal for those that want voucher), Weekends, Dhs300 to be a little further from the per person (with a Dhs250 action. There’s even a swim-up food voucher) a Nikki Beach Dubai, bar for those that don’t want Pearl Jumeirah, daily 11am to leave the pool. Speaking of bars, you’ll find the main bar at to 9pm. Tel: (04) 376 6162. the end of the catwalk. Right in nikkibeach.com

WHITE BEACH Two of the city’s biggest hospitality powerhouses, Atlantis, The Palm and Addmind, the hospitality company behind the likes of White and Drai’s, will come together to launch a new beach club this November.

WHITE Beach at Atlantis, The Palm promises multiple areas including a live event space, restaurant with openair terrace and a shoreside infinity pool perfect for getting those wow-worthy Instagram shots. As well as poolside lounging by day, WHITE Beach will open for an exciting programme of sunset sessions, as well as local and international artist performances. q @whitebeach NAMMOS A slice of Mykonos will land in Dubai later this year as famed beach club Nammos opens its doors in November. Taking up residence at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Beach, the new venue is split between a Mediterranean restaurant, a beach bar, the Nammos Beachfront and a one-ofa-kind bubbly room. In Mykonos, it’s famed for its day to night parties, top Mediterranean dishes and A-list guests. We hope it brings it all to the shores of the Four Seasons when it opens. q @nammos.dubai

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BEACH CLUBS

Zero Gravity You’ll struggle to find a Dubai resident who hasn’t been to, or at least heard of, mega beach club Zero Gravity. The huge venue is home to a supersize swimming pool, lengthy stretch of private beach, indoor bar and terrace and an extra-large outdoor area fully-prepped to host some of the biggest events of the year. Despite the large number of sun loungers available, it’s always best to arrive early as the popular beach club gets very busy on weekends and ladies’ days.

Speaking of which, girls get free entry every Tuesday, and the day normally has exciting entertainment and freebies for ladies. On the menu, you’ll find an extensive range of international bites, easy to enjoy without leaving the comfort of your sun lounger.

There’s brunches every Friday and Saturday, complete with many live cooking stations, cocktail stands and roaming entertainment.

Price: Prices vary a Zero Gravity, Skydive Dropzone, Dubai Marina, Sun, Mon and Wed 10am to 9pm, Tue 10am to midnight, Thur & Fri 10am to 3am, Sat 10am to 1am. Tel: (04) 3990009.

0-gravity.ae

DUBAI

RIVA Beach Dubai

RIVA Beach Dubai Probably the most family friendly of the lot, RIVA has a large pool, shaded by palm trees and a pristine private beachfront, which offers a range of water sports such as standup paddle boarding. There’s an outdoor tiki-style pool bar, which serves refreshing juices, cocktails and frozen drinks.

There’s also a large restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a weekly Friday brunch for Dhs299.

Residents of Palm Jumeirah can make use of generous discounts too, including 50 per cent off food on selected days.

Good news for the girls, RIVA offers two ladies’ days every Wednesday and Thursday.

For Dhs55 ladies can get pool and beach access plus three selected drinks.

Price: Dhs80 or Dhs100 per couple a RIVA Beach Dubai, The Shoreline, Palm Jumeirah, 34_What’s On_11.2019

daily 7am to midnight. Tel: (04) 4309466. riva-beach.com

Train Beach Club Train is the beach club for fitness buffs. It has a pool and an outdoor gym. You can also relax with shisha or enjoy a healthy lunch. The reasonablypriced menu offers up a range of dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including a selection of protein-heavy meals. Enjoy a fresh juice from the comfort of your swing bed cabana, while looking over La Mer beach. The gym is equipped with state-of-the-art machines, and there are even boxing classes taking place throughout the day. If you can’t be away from your laptop for too long, the co-working space is the perfect area to feel inspired and get your work done.

Price: Day passes cost Dhs165 a Train Beach Club, La Mer North. @trainbeachclub

Zero Gravity

4

of the

BEST BRUNCHES WITH POOL ACCESS

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01

WET DECK Palm Sugar Brunch takes place every Friday at the Wet Deck.

The buffet, which stretches along the length of the pool, is brimming with stations of lamb chops, beef brisket, colourful burgers, tender ribs and super-stretched hot dogs – it’s a meat-lover’s dream.

There’s also a nacho station with guac made fresh, towers of tortilla chips and gooey melted cheese. Drinks include large jars of refreshing fruity cocktails, sparkling is included as standard, and cheerful waiters distribute bottles of beer directly to the beds. a The WET Deck, W - The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Fri 1pm to 5pm, Dhs445. Tel: (04) 2455555. wetdeckdubai.com

02

LA PISCINA BY PALAZZO VERSACE

If you’re looking for a new luxury poolside spot this season, allow us to introduce you to La Piscina by Palazzo Versace. On Saturdays, the new venue hosts an upscale Saturday poolside brunch, where guests can enjoy an open buffet of Mediterranean eats and free flowing drinks. a La Piscina by Palazzo Versace, Palazzo Versace, Al Jaddaff, Sat 1pm to 4pm, Dhs250. Tel: (058) 2266443. palazzoversace.ae

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Candypants throws a pool party brunch at The Penthouse every Saturday from noon to 5pm. For Dhs249, ladies can enjoy unlimited wine, selected cocktails and live cooking stations, and for a more premium offering it’s Dhs349, which includes bubbly and spirits on top of the standard package. Guys can avail the same package for Dhs399.

As the sun sets, ladies can enjoy three selected drinks for Dhs100 from 5pm to 8pm, too. a Candypants at The Penthouse, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Sat noon to 8pm, Dhs249. facebook.com/ CandypantsEvents

Enjoy a slower pace of life at the Villamore Barefoot Lunch every Friday and Saturday.

The four-course brunch comes with pool and beach access for the whole day, as well as Mediterranean dishes such as roasted sea bream, lemon risotto and sirloin tagliata. a Barefoot Lunch, Villamore, Emerald Palace Kempinski, Palm Jumeirah, Fri and Sat 1.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs375 with soft drinks, Dhs475 with house drinks, Dhs575 sparkling. Tel: (04) 2488890. villamoredubai.com

THE PENTHOUSE

VILLAMORE

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BEACH CLUBS

ABU DHABI

Zaya Nurai Island Resort If you are going to go out, go all out and whisk yourself to a place that really feels away from it all. You don’t have to check in to get the benefits of an island stay here, but a day visit comes with a relaxing boat ride and all the lounger and pool time you can handle.

Zaya Nurai has a handy pass offering beach and pool access, and you can redeem back most of your dirhams to fuel up on some of their tasty dishes and relaxing drinks. a Dusk, Zaya Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi. Reservations are required to board the boat to the island. Dhs480 for a day pass; Dhs420 redeemable for food, beverage, spa and recreation. Tel: (02) 5066222. zayanuraiisland.com

towards food and beverage. Tel: (02) 6970000. rotana.com

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

The Abu Dhabi EDITION

It seems like a good idea to spend a day off from the daily grind on an island literally named after happiness.

Daycation at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas and get access to a 300-metre stretch of sandy beach as well as the pool. You don’t have to be lazy either: bring a friend and try out one of two volleyball courts or get wet doing your choice of water sports. A day pass includes credits that can be spent on food and drink, too. a Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi. Dhs350 per adult, with Dhs100 redeemable

The capital’s chicest hotel doesn’t have a beach club, per say. However those wanting to chill out by the pool only need to head to the Alba Terrace Pool Cabana for daily brunch to take a dip. Spend a sunkissed afternoon kicking back on a lounger as you indulge in a three-hour beverage package and nibble on light Mediterranean bites. a The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen area, Abu Dhabi. Daily noon to 6pm. Dhs300 for house beverage package.

Tel: (02) 2080000. editionhotels.com

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Zaya Nurai Island Resort

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

BEACH CLUB

ABU DHABI

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort Another day, another five-star daycation. This offer, however, comes with something most beach clubs don’t: day use of one of the resort’s rooms, from 9am straight through to 6pm – whether it’s an airconditioned nap you’re after or a place to properly gussy up for sundowners. This package also comes with access to the Bodyism gym and classes, free wifi and Dhs150 in food and beverage credit. a Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.

Sunday to Wednesday. Dhs750, including room access from 9am to 6pm and Dhs150 in food and beverage credit. Tel: (02) 8115888. jumeirah.com 38_What’s On_11.2019

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl Chill out in front of the shimmering blue Gulf waters, completely sheltered from the nearby hustle and bustle of the city. The centrepiece here is a 50-metre boutique infinity pool surrounded by cabanas and loungers. Hungry? Order up an Italian snack from Verso, sip a fresh fruit smoothie or score a bubbling beverage from the signature trolley. a Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl. Daily, 8am to 8pm.

Dhs200 per person. Tel: (02) 5101234. hyatt.com

Rixos Saadiyat Island

Rixos Saadiyat Island Leave it to the only all-inclusive resort in Abu Dhabi to offer an all-inclusive daycation, too. Available weekdays or weekends at Saadiyat Island’s new resort, this package includes full day pool and beach

access along with unlimited food and house beverages. Pay once, order often. a Rixos Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Weekdays, Dhs650, weekends, Dhs750.

Tel: (02) 4922222 Saadiyatisland.rixos.com

EXCLUSIVE EDUCATION PARTNER

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EXCLUSIVE EDUCATION PARTNER

Performing the songs of The Beautiful South including A Little Time, Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Don‘t Marry Her, Old Red Eyes and many more

Dinner on the dunes, alfresco spa experiences and swimming under the stars are all on the agenda at the UAE’s top desert resorts...

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DESERT RESORTS

ABU DHABI Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara Hidden among the sea of rolling, flame-orange dunes in the Empty Quarter, Anantara Qasr Al Sarab is one of the UAE’s best-loved, traditional Arabian escapes.

A secluded desert oasis, there are 140 rooms, 14 suites and 52 pool villas, all decorated with traditional arabesque touches with endless vistas out across the dunes. For the most exclusive of stays, guests can even reserve a Royal Pavilion out in the desert. Separated from the main resort, the rooms are described as ‘secluded desert sanctuaries’, and each come complete with private pool.

Room rates start at: Dhs1,641 per night q anantara.com

Telal Resort Al Ain This five-star holistic resort in Al Ain overlooks a stunning conservation area, with natural desert plains extending as far as the eye can see. Decor is Emirati-inspired and guests can look forward to traditional artwork, Arabesque touches and timeless local details across each of the rooms, villas and suites. Accommodation ranges from deluxe rooms up to a three-bedroom villa that has its own private pool and jacuzzi. For a relaxing stay, book a treatment at the spa or bury yourself deep in a book in the cosy library, while those with a passion for adventure can enjoy ATV drives, ziplines or a desert safari.

Room rates start at: Dhs1,089 per night q telalresort.ae

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Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara

Telal Resort Al Ain

Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa

Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa Drawing inspiration from a historic desert village, this quintessentially Arabian-style resort sprawls over 22,000 square metres of tranquil desert. Comprising 13 villas each with a private pool, 90 traditional guest bedrooms and six restaurants and bars, guests of Jumeirah Al Wathba are invited to step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and retreat to a natural environment that encourages relaxation and reconnection. There’s a big focus on wellness here, with a 1,000 square metre pool and luxury Talise Spa that offers treatments and facilities such as hammams, crystal salt saunas and a dedicated cryo treatment room.

Room rates start at: Dhs1,015 per night q jumeirah.com

Spa all you desire AT ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA

Connect with yourself at the award-winning The Spa, Address

Dubai Marina. Customize your unforgettable spa experience as per your desire with our new packages which allows you to choose several treatments during your session. Whether you prefer a pampering massage, therapeutic aromatherapy or rejuvenating facials. Enjoy your tailor-made one hour session for AED 349 only.

BOOK NOW T +971 4 436 7424 SPA.ADMMH@ADDRESSHOTELS.COM ADDRESSHOTELS.COM

DESERT RESORTS

DUBAI Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Keen to experience a desert resort in the UAE without the long drive? Just 45 minutes outside of Dubai is the beautiful Bab Al Shams. Nestled among the dunes on the outskirts of the city, Bab Al Shams is a rustic desert oasis. A split-level, super-sized swimming pool provides the centrepiece to the resort, lined with colourful red loungers and a swim-up bar.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch at the all-day dining restaurant, Al Forsan, and for dinner don’t miss a dining experience at Al Hadheerah, where authentic Arabic cuisine is served up with a side of belly dancing, horse and camel shows, live music and even fireworks on weekends. The resort is remote, but the prices are reasonable, and you won’t be bored thanks to an array of activities on offer including falconry, horse riding, archery and desert drives.

Room rates start at: Dhs840 q babalshams.com

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

SHARJAH

DIGITAL EDITOR’S PICK

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa An hour out of Dubai you’ll find Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa. This stunning oasis is home to individual villas complete with private pools, a main resort area where you’ll find all-day dining restaurant, Al Diwaan, and a relaxing spa. Guests can wile away the day at their private pools, or head to the picturesque main outdoor pool, which faces out over the sprawling desert dunes.

Check in for a luxury staycation here and don’t be surprised to greet your neighbours – Arabian Oryx and gazelles – as you enjoy breakfast on the alfresco terrace.

Room rates start at: Dhs4,400 q marriott.com

RAS AL KHAIMAH THE RITZ-CARLTON RAS AL KHAIMAH, AL WADI DESERT The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is set among the beauty of a 1,235-acre protected reserve. Experience picturesque scenery and rich culture in the bedouin-styled villas, which come with private pools, lounge areas and breathtaking desert views. For the adventurous traveller, book a desert trek on a camel, a private archery lesson, or just head out on a nature walk and soak in the surroundings.

Room rates start at: Dhs3,600 per night q ritzcarlton.com

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KINGFISHER LODGE Located in Kalba city, out on the UAE’s east coast, Kingfisher Lodge by the Sharjah Collection overlooks the Indian Ocean and features 20 luxury tents complete with private plunge pools. Decked out in natural, calming hues for maximum relaxation, the rooms come with modern amenities while still keeping a stripped-back look. The neighbouring mangroves are home to a turtle breeding area, as well as many rare species of bird for budding birdwatchers. For something more active, kayak or paddleboard through the water, try your hand at archery at the nearby Kalba Absolute Adventure Camp, or take to the mountains for a hike.

Room rates start at: Dhs2,404 per night q sharjahcollection.ae

MODERN MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Offering contemporary Middle-Eastern classics, these authentic neighbourhood eateries celebrate the enduring popularity and history of Middle-Eastern cuisine.

NOW OPEN @ JA The Resort - Jebel Ali Beach Dubai @ JA Oasis Beach Tower - JBR 1st floor

Menu by chef GREG MALOUF

phoeniciadubai.com

phoeniciadxb

phoeniciadxb

GET TICKETS

THE

General Admission tickets start from Dhs999 (incl. access to all four nights of After-Race concerts, and three days of On-Track Action). q ticketsyasmarinacircuit.com

WEEKEND

Fast cars, music legends, and parties: There’s something for everyone at the 2019 Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

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THE GIGS NOVEMBER 28

MARSHMELLO: The man behind the mask

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lobally recognised for the oversized white trademark helmet that stands as the symbol to his anonymity, Marshmello will be performing the first live show of the four After-Race concerts on Thursday November 28 at du Arena, Yas Island.

The announcement was made earlier this month after fans had been excitedly anticipating the confirmation following a major hint dropped

ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX

HE IS NOW ESTIMATED TO HAVE OVER TWO BILLION STREAMS on the Yas Marina Circuit’s Instagram page, which had followers guessing the titles of the unrevealed artist’s smash hits in the form of a crossword puzzle. Eager fans were quick to recognise that all songs belonged to the masked DJ, which included Happier, Friends and Silence.

Whilst Marshmello’s success has ranked him amongst the world’s top five highest earning DJ’s, he is also an example of an artist whose superstardom has originated from humble beginnings. His music career only began in 2015 when he started posting songs on SoundCloud, which included remixes of Jack Ü’s Where Are Ü Now, Zedd’s Beautiful Now and others. He is now estimated to have over two billion streams on Spotify alone and his high-profile collaborations have achieved global success, including the smash hit single Happier with Bastille. The song peaked at number one in the charts across the world and has been streamed just under one billion times on Spotify.

Marshmello recently made history in February this year, by performing to an estimated 11 million Fortnite streamers in the largest live in-game concert to date. Although only ten minutes long, the DJ put on a spectacular and unforgettable set, so visitors to the Formula 1 can expect nothing less from his performance at the first of the four After-Race concerts later this year.

NOVEMBER 29

SEVEN FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RAPPER TRAVIS SCOTT 01. His real name is actually Jaques Berman Webster II. He chose his stage name ‘Travis’ in honour of his favourite uncle « 02. He has adopted a variety of unique stage names throughout his music career, the most noteworthy being Cactus Jack, La Flame, and Travi$ Scott « 03. He formed a hip-hop duo called ‘Huncho Jack’ with rapper Quavo in 2016. The group’s name was formed by combining Quavo’s nickname, ‘Huncho’, with

Travis Scott’s record label ‘Cactus Jack Records’ « 04. Scott was nominated for a total of 12 awards at the annual Billboard Music Awards this year. He came home with one win, Top Streaming Song (Audio), for his breakthrough hit single Sicko Mode

05. In August this year, he released an 85-minute Netflix documentary film entitled Travis Scott: Look Mom I can Fly, which offers a candid insight into his life and rise to super-stardom « 06. In 2012, Scott signed to Kanye West’s GOOD Music record label and the pair have since collaborated on numerous tracks, including Sin City from the ‘Cruel Summer’ compilation album « 07. Scott is not the first person in his family to pursue a career in music. His father, Jaques Webster, is an accomplished soul musician and his grandfather was also a jazz composer

NOVEMBER 30

LIFE ACCORDING TO LANA DEL REY On what makes her happy “I’m really simple. I love nature. I like hikes. I love the elements. Playing an outdoor festival. Love that feeling.”

On what gives her hope “I think just knowing that I’m on the same page with the people in my life who I’m closest with gives me the most hope.”

On what makes her proud “My records. I love my records. I love them. I’m proud of the way I’ve put parts of my story into songs in ways that only I understand.”

On her self-care “I could sum it up in one word: girlfriends.

I see my friends every day; I’m in coffee shops for hours talking to them. It’s just pretty simple – not isolating and planning little things.”

On who she’d like to collaborate with “I really like The National. His voice, I think about it… a lot. Every time a song is playing and I’m like, who’s that? It’s always him.”

On who she’s a fan of “I love Billie Eilish, and I feel like I’ve been waiting for this time in pop-music culture. I can tell if a female pop singer, for instance, has a generosity of spirit or a playful fire in her heart. With Billie, she’s prodigious. I need to hear one line of one melody and I just know.”

On performing at Kim & Kanye’s wedding party “It was a surprise for Kim. I hadn’t met her.

I sang Young and Beautiful, Summertime Sadness and Blue Jeans. Kanye requested Young and Beautiful. The girls - the Kardashians were so nice. There was only one front row, just them, right there.”

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ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX DECEMBER 1

The Killers by numbers 5

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The band has released a total of five studio albums since they first formed in 2001; Hot Fuss, Sam’s Town, Day & Age, Battle Born and Wonderful Wonderful

It has been estimated that the band has sold a staggering total of 22 million records worldwide

35

Between July 2016 and March 2017, the band’s hit sensation Mr Brightside spent a total of 35 consecutive weeks back in the UK Singles Chart

7

They have been nominated for a total of seven Grammy Awards over the years

106

During their set at the Glastonbury festival earlier this year, the sound reportedly hit an astonishing 106 decibels, breaking the record for the festival’s loudest ever headliner in history

621

10

Their world-renowned hit single, Mr Brightside, peaked at number 10 in the UK Top 40 Charts in 2004

THE PARTIES

bridge positioned directly over the race track. q ramusake.ae

Candypants

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island will open just in time for the Formula 1 Grand Prix Race weekend and there’s plenty of activities happening to celebrate. Epic Grand Prix pool party OKOKO will be taking over WET Deck for a three-day festival of fun. On Friday November 29, Defected DJ Sandy Rivera and friends will be headlining, and on Saturday November 30, Faithless and friends will host a party with ‘jaw-dropping neon production’. The closing party on Sunday December 1 will be hosted by Claptone with a carnival theme from 9pm to 4am to round out the weekend. q yashotelexperiences.com 48_What’s On_11.2019

The bands lead singer, Brandon Flowers, has expressed his phobia of the number 621 following an incident with a Ouija board when he was younger

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island

Ramusake Away from the WET Deck, Dubai favourite Ramusake is headed to the capital for a huge F1 takeover. Running from Wednesday November 27 until Sunday December 1, the five-day pop up will offer an array of brunch and dinner packages, starting from Dhs800. The Ramusake popup will be perfectly positioned in the newly rebranded W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island (formerly Yas Hotel), located on a glass

The powerhouse party brand is throwing a variety of brunches, yacht parties and events over the F1 weekend. Highlights include brunch at The Social Pit Lane at Casa de Cuba, open from Thursday November 28 to Sunday December 1.

Brunch will run from 8pm to 11pm priced at Dhs499 and from Friday to Sunday, brunch takes place from 1pm to 4pm, priced at Dhs699 per person. Candypants trackside mega yacht is also returning for 2019, with both brunch and after party packages available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The 12-hour mega yacht brunch package will serve up free flowing food and drink from noon to midnight,

and is priced at Dhs1,990 on Friday and Saturday and Dhs4,990 on Sunday. q candypants.events

Love Parties at Iris Hidden Brunch in Dubai is racing up to the capital to take over Iris at Yas Marina Circuit from Friday November 29 to Sunday December 1 with three days of back-to-back brunching from Dhs499. q hiddenbrunch.com/raceweekend Love Parties at Iris

FOR MORE PARTIES, CHECK OUT WHATSON.AE

REV UP YOUR RACE WEEKEND Steal the scene and live it up trackside at the soon to launch W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, the Official Event Supporter of the Formula 1TM Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

For reservations wrevup.com/F1 02 656 0600 Š2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.

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The city’s most epic staycation returns.

Join What’s On as we take over Vida Creek Harbour this month...

L C K I N FRIDAY NOV 22

E

very season, What’s On takes over a different hotel and hosts an entire weekend of feasts, fun, and free activities intended to give 100 lucky guests an exclusive experience unlike any other.

The event: What’s On Lock In on November 22 to 23. This season’s hotel: Vida Creek Harbour, the brand new, uberchic waterfront destination already making waves for its jaw-dropping city views. Want to know more? Read on and get excited.

Here’s exactly what’s going down…

DAY

1

01 On Friday, guests will check into Vida Creek Harbour early before getting familiarised with all the fun stuff planned for the weekend. You’ll be given the keys to your uber cool room, and handed your itinerary. From 10am to brunch time, you’ll also have free access to salons, barbers and more to help you get ready for the day...

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L C K I N FRIDAY NOV 22

Lads

Bristles and Mane Forget what they say about dogs – everyone knows that a good barber is a man’s best friend. Raising the benchmark of signature male grooming services is Bristles and Mane Jumeirah, probably Dubai’s most luxurious – and professional – male grooming experiences in town. Come and meet the exceptionally talented team and let them help you get you ship shape and brunch ready. q bristlesandmane.com

CHALK

Ladies

Chalk is an exciting new hair salon for men and women located in hip neighbourhood Alserkal Avenue, offering quality services and products in a lively atmosphere that combines great looks, music and art. At the Lock In, they’ll be offering ladies free hair-braiding so you can look chic for the pool brunch. q chalk.ae

KYRAcare

Get pierced

Come and get pierced for free at the What’s On Lock In. KYRAcare not only prides itself on providing safe and sterile piercing experiences, but also ear styling and jewellery curation.

They have two branches in Dubai: one in the Gold & Diamond Park, and one in Dubai Healthcare City, but for one day only, they’ll have a pop-up piercing studio at Vida Creek Harbour. Piercing services will be offered in two methods: a hand pressured instrument; and sterile single-use needles, so come and get some pretty pokes. Styling consultation is also free and basic studs start at Dhs165.

T&C’s apply. q kyra.ae

Play

Lala Land Glowout&go Founded by celebrity make-up artist, and serial entrepreneur Samira Olfat, Glowout&go offers on-demand, professional make-up artists to your door or guestroom. Meet the team, and try it out for free at Vida Creek Harbour. q instagram.com/glowoutandgo

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Look out for our friends Lala Land who will be giving Lock In guests the chance to win some cool prizes including stationery, homewares and other colourful gifts. q lala-land.com

02 From 1pm, there’ll be a laid-back poolside brunch by the Vida Creek Harbour infinity pool with platters delivered direct to your sun lounger, plus free-flowing drinks until 5pm. Don’t forget to pack your swimwear...

03 The party moves up one level at 5pm when everybody will make their way to the stunning Courtyard Lounge for sundowners, shisha, and chillout vibes, where Lock In guests can enjoy five free house drinks.

04 Feeling hungry again? Good. New concept JOMO will be on hand to dish out vegan burgers, fries and onion rings. All. Night. Long. q jomoburger.com

05 Once you’re partied out, head to your room for some well-earned shut eye. Inside each room you’ll find a very comfortable bed, modern furnishings and free WiFi, with a panoramic view of the city. Oh yes, and how could we forget the range of free goodies that you’ll find sprinkled around the room just for you? Lock In guest perks are the best!

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L C K I N SATURDAY NOV 23

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On Saturday, you’ll either feel fresh as a daisy ready to take on the world, or you’ll wake up with a sore head.

Whichever it is, the Lock In provides...

Boxing with UNDERDOGBOXN

Brekkie at The Courtyard

If you partied hard last night, the last thing you might feel like doing is getting your gloves on for a boxing class. But you should.

A little sweat session can go a long way to minimise suffering and speed the recovery process. And as UNDERDOGBOXN members ourselves, we know that #couplegoal duo Linda and Brian’s fast, furious – but fun – sweaty HIIT class works wonders. Underdog will host a special outdoor session just for Lock In guests on Saturday.

There are limited spaces so book fast. q underdogboxn.com

Rise and shine with a delightful buffet breakfast on the terrace courtesy of Stage2 restaurant with fresh fruit, baked goods, cold cuts and cheeses, as well as one a la carte option such as eggs made to order, frittatas, Vida Benedicts, waffles or French toast. The perfect start to any morning...

HOW MUCH? Early check in One-night stay at Vida Creek Harbour 3 Piercings from Kyra 4 Hair and make up services 5 All-inclusive Friday brunch at Vida Creek Harbour infinitry pool 6 Five drinks at the Courtyard 7 Vegan burgers and sides from JOMO 8 BoxnBody workouts 9 Breakfast 10 All day pool access 11 Late check out 1 2

07 Spend your last hours at Vida Creek Harbour back where it all began – sunbathing by the pool – taking in those amazing views one last time.

TOTAL: DHS699

CHECK OUT 2pm 54_What’s On_11.2019

(PER ROOM PER COUPLE!)

10am

Guest arrival and check in at Vida Creek Harbour lobby Pick up your wristband and orientation pack

10.30am to 1pm

Prep, pierce and play Piercings from KYRAcare, hair braiding from Chalk, barber services courtesy of Bristles & Mane and free make-up from Glowout&go. Plus, win cool goodies from Lala Land

1pm to 5pm

Pool and cabana brunch Food platters and unlimited drinks

5pm to 9pm

Sunset sessions at The Courtyard Five free house drinks and shisha. Plus, vegan burger and fries from JOMO

7am to 10.30am

Rouse and repair

10am

Morning activity brought to you by UNDERDOGBOXN

Alfresco buffet breakfast at The Courtyard

A killer session combining boxing with HIIT workouts

Sunshine sessions

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Sunbathe at the pool deck

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10am to 2pm

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INSIDE VIDA CREEK HARBOUR XXXXXX

We’re calling it: Our What’s On Lock In hotel has the best view of the city, among many other hidden surprises…

MEET THE HOTEL MANAGER

Daniel Kingston our Corporate Team that an investment in an Italian wooden speedboat for the GM is a good idea…

Vida Creek Harbour. Where exactly is that?

Vida Creek Harbour is located in the new Creek Harbour development just off Ras al Khor road. It sits right on the Creek and is a fabulous location, and contrary to what you might hear, you don’t actually need a passport to get here! In fact, you don’t even need a car – you can also arrive by water taxi. I hope that soon I’ll be able to arrive in my own boat, a la James Bond.

Sadly, I’m yet to convince 56_What’s On_11.2019

We hear you Mr Bond. So, it’s quite a different feel to the other Vida Hotels then?

The great thing with Vida Hotels, is that each Vida embraces the area in which they operate and bring something local into the spaces. For example, Vida Downtown is in the centre of the city, so the vibe is more cosmopolitan, whereas at Vida Emirates Hills, it’s more residential and with views over Emirates Golf Club, it feels like a hidden hideaway.

With Vida Creek Harbour,

the main difference is the vibe that’s created by being near the water; it’s just really chilled and even with the large room inventory, it has a nice intimate feel. Add in our Courtyard lounge overlooking the Creek, and I can’t think of anywhere else you’d rather be.

Oh yes, tell us about that view…

Isn’t it amazing? I think it’s the best view in Dubai. Where else can you get such an iconic view of the city? It’s one of those views that you can’t take a bad photo of. I think my favourite time of the day is sunset. It’s like looking at a postcard right outside of your office.

INSIDE VIDA CREEK HARBOUR

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE…

What about the restaurants at Vida Creek Harbour?

We have our Courtyard Lounge, the most perfect sundowner spot, serving Arabic dishes, shisha and drinks. The wonderful thing with the Courtyard, is we have built-in AC, so you can sit outside all year round and not worry about melting. We also have a new concept, Soulgreen that will launch soon. It’s a unique concept that focusses on plant-based cuisine.

What do the rooms look like?

They have so much character, with a very fresh and relaxed

feel, yet still stylish. I made the mistake of bringing my family for a visit and now my daughter wants her room to look like the hotel.

Which events are you most excited about launching?

It has to be our upcoming What’s On Lock In event.

The thought of having guests locked-in for a weekend is very exciting for us (*insert evil laugh…*). Honestly, it’ll be great as we have some really great brands that will keep our guests entertained. Who doesn’t want to get a piercing over the weekend or enjoy sundowners and a sleepover for a steal? q vidahotels.com

“OUR COURTYARD LOUNGE IS THE MOST PERFECT SUNDOWNER SPOT” 11.2019_What’s On_57

DHS 500 UAE DEALS

DHS

500

PACKAGE DEALS

Brunch at Mazina Tackle the Friday BBQ brunch at Address Dubai Marina’s Mazina restaurant for just Dhs500 for two people incl house drinks. Offer is valid until Nov 30. T&Cs apply.

Tel: (04) 8883444

DAZZLING

UAE DISCOUNTS

To celebrate the 500th issue of What’s On, some of our closest friends have offered up exciting Dhs500 packages for all our readers. Enjoy!

Brunch and spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, JBR Manhattan Grill dinner deal Enjoy a three-course meal for two people incl soft drinks at Grand Hyatt Dubai’s chic Manhattan Grill for Dhs500. T&Cs apply.

Tel: (04) 3172221

Couple’s treatment at The Spa, Address Dubai Marina This luxurious spa is offering a 50-minute couple massage for the special rate of Dhs500 for What’s On readers this month.

T&Cs apply. Tel: (04) 4367424

This lovely offer includes the Chill and Grill Saturday Brunch at Palm Grill incl. house drinks and pool and beach access, along with a 30-min massage at The RitzCarlton Spa, Dubai all for Dhs500. T&Cs apply.

Tel: (04) 3186160

SIMPLY QUOTE

“WHAT’S ON 500”

Dinner at Zoya by Maui Zoya by Maui is the newly-launched Indian cuisine concept served every evening at Maui Beach Restaurant. Come and try two starters, mains and signature Lassi for two people, for just Dhs500.

T&Cs apply. Tel: (04) 4556677

WHEN BOOKING

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D H S 5 0 0 PA C K A G E D E A L S

FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar Sink your teeth into this cracking deal – Dhs500 for two people including three small plates (sharing), two mains, two desserts and a bottle of wine.

T&Cs apply. Tel: (04) 2497800

SIMPLY QUOTE

“WHAT’S ON 500” WHEN BOOKING

Boho Chic Courtyard Brunch at Manzil Downtown

Nezesaussi

Here’s your chance to check out the new brunch at Manzil Downtown for Dhs500 for two people including bubbly. T&Cs apply.

Tel: (04) 8883444

Spend just Dhs500 at Manzil Downtown’s sports bar, and you’ll receive a starter, main course and four house drinks for you and a friend. T&Cs apply.

Tel: (04) 8883444

DHS

500

Daycation at La Ville Hotel & Suites

PACKAGE DEALS

Make a day of it with a 90-minute spa treatment, pool pass and three-course lunch in Chival for Dhs500. T&Cs apply.

Tel: (04) 4033111

Prime68 Brunch The award-winning steakhouse at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is giving What’s On readers the chance to enjoy the Prime68 Friday brunch for Dhs500 per couple. The deal includes soft drinks, and other T&Cs apply. Tel: (04) 4143000

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A New York steakhouse with vibrant Latin American flavours! For more information, please call +971 4 317 2222, or visit dubai.grand.hyatt.com

Hyatt and Grand Hyatt names, designs and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. Š 2019 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

YOUR MANHATTAN GRILL EXPERIENCE AWAITS...

Meet us at the pool for sun-kissed afternoons, complete with a selection of Mediterranean light bites and unlimited drinks AED 300 food and house beverages Sunday - Thursday 12 pm - 6 pm (brunch packages are valid up to 3 hours)

Al Bateen Marina, PO box 127799, Abu Dhabi, UAE T +971 (02) 208 0000 restaurantreservations.auh@editionhotels.com www.editionhotels.com

Abu Dhabi’s favourite food festival returns for its sixth edition

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TA S T E O F A B U D H A B I

T

aste of Abu Dhabi, the capital’s favourite food, drink and music festival, returns to du Arena, Yas Island and is set to be bigger, better and tastier than ever.

What’s new 01. A dedicated Emirati Pavilion, where you can immerse yourself in UAE cuisine while learning about local traditions and culture 02. Bespoke beverage tasting experiences, along with mixologist masterclasses at the Beverage Theatre 03. The Ultimate Taste Ticket, which provides four food and six drink vouchers and access to the VIP Lounge, for Dhs290 04. Two international headline music acts, UB40 and Boyzlife

The restaurants More than 15 restaurants from across the capital will be serving up bite-sized delights. They include a unique interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine at Todd English’s Olives; a supreme steak experience from Butcher & Still; Lebanese fare from Sambusek; Indian from Namak by Kunal Kapur and Chinese dishes at Dai Pai Dong. Some of the best locally produced honey, dates, cheeses, bread, as well as organic and fresh produce, will be on offer at the International Food Pavilion.

64_What’s On_11.2019

MEET A POP-UP VENDOR

Marshall Roth Head chef, Butcher & Still

We have decided to come up with a brandnew marinade exclusively for the festival, applying a secret ingredient. We guarantee you’ll love it!

Come and try our duck fat beef burger. In order to make it juicier and more tender,

we add duck fat to our signature prime angus burger, which gives a silkiness to both the meat and the bun.

You also need to try our cherry pie. We use two different kinds of cherries to make sure the balance of the sweetness and sourness is heavenly.

We are excited to see how visitors react to our various pop-up dishes. We aim to be whipping up the best American dishes while instilling local flavours into each meal.

Approximately 500kgs of prime beef is being prepared for the festival. That’s a lot of meat!

Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden

The entertainment While there will be live music throughout the event, the big draws will be Thursday and Friday, which is when the first two international acts perform at Taste of Abu Dhabi.

On Thursday, English reggae and pop band, and four-time Grammy Award nominees UB40 open the festival. Lest fans be confused, this is the version of the band featuring Ali Campbell and Astro – not the rival band featuring Campbell’s brother Duncan.

UB40 formed back in 1979 and went on to sell 70 million records, producing a range of hits including Cherry Oh Baby and Don’t Break My Heart.

On Friday, Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden, who have teamed up to form the duo Boyzlife, will perform a mix of their greatest hits from Westlife and Boyzone including Flying Without Wings, No Matter What and Swear It Again. The rest of Taste of Abu Dhabi will feature a mix of entertainment by local artists, DJs and other bands including 4TheMusic and Yeah Yeah Nah.

Eric Lanlard

MEET THE MASTER BAKER

B Jean Christophe Novelli

Annabel Karmel

The chefs At the Crate & Barrel Chef ’s Theatre, celebrity chefs will host live cooking demonstrations and share their latest tips and techniques.

The 2019 lineup includes multi-Michelin star and awarding-winning French chef Jean Christophe Novelli; Australian chef, author, and MasterChef UK judge John Torode; cookbook author Assia Othman; MasterChef India judge Kunal Kapur; bestselling baby and children’s food and nutrition author, Annabel Karmel, who recently opened White + The Bear, a children’s restaurant in Dubai. Over in the Big Baking Tent, sugarlovers can soak up knowledge provided by master pâtissier Eric Lanlard and Dubai-based pastry chef Karim Bourgi.

orn in Senegal to Lebanese parents, Karim Bourgi decided to become a baker after watching cooking shows, going on to study at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris before Celebrity pastry chef settling in the UAE. He will be demonstrating two of his favourite desserts at the Big Baking Tent and hosting challenges with aspiring chefs as part of the Al Ain Farms Cooking Challenge.

Karim Bourgi

What makes a great pastry chef?

A pastry chef must be passionate about his or her job and be extremely creative. Creativity and innovation are a must for pastry chefs.

How have Paris, Senegal and Lebanon informed your work?

I was only two years old when my family left Senegal and moved to Lebanon, a country with an exceptional culinary heritage. Lebanese ingredients and pastry have played a key role in my creations and I love combining and experimenting with different flavours.

I absolutely adore orange blossom and pistachio and I once created a date and orange blossom éclair; the embodiment of French-style excellence with eastern flavours.

What do you want to do in the kitchen that you have not been able to achieve?

I love teaching and I believe it is important to continue sharing knowledge with the future pastry chefs. Therefore, I try and conduct classes with the next generation of pastry chefs when I can and I am looking forward to sharing this knowledge with visitors at Taste of Abu Dhabi this November.

What is your absolute favourite pastry to make and why?

I love everything with chocolate, especially the dark chocolate 72 per cent pure Venezuela from Valrhona.

My favourite is chocolate eclairs, as it reminds me of my childhood days.

November 7 to 9 a Taste of Abu Dhabi, du Arena, Yas Island. Thur 4pm to

midnight; Fri noon to midnight; Sat noon to 11pm. Entry from Dhs70; packages from Dhs160 to Dhs450. tasteabudhabi.com 11.2019_What’s On_65

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FEATURING 200+ PERFECT PLACES TO PARTY

C R A I G D AV I D P R E S E N T S T S 5 | LO S T F R E Q U E N C I E S DISCIPLES | ELI & FUR | KLINGANDE T H E PA RT Y O F T H E Y E A R 12-13-14 D E C 2019 B OO K N OW AT LU V YA . L I V E

UAE PARTY GUIDE The UAE knows how to throw a party. Yes, you can have the traditional clubbing experience at Meydan or Yas Island, but there’s also great party brunches in Abu Dhabi, incredible ladies’ nights in Dubai Marina, and everything in between.

But it’s inadvisable to jump straight in with no method to your madness. Before heading out the door, have a nosey through the next few pages – your ultimate guide to partying in the UAE. We hope you’ll find it useful...

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Annex

ABU DHABI Annex

Over at the swanky Abu Dhabi EDITION this new nightlife addition is located next to the main hotel. Annex occupies an entire building, which juts out into the water of Al Bateen Marina, and is split into three spaces. The rooftop bar is an intimate space where the DJ spins house music with Arabic intervals; the mid-level is for a cosier vibe, and the real party plays out on the ground floor.

For a three-in-one experience head on down.

Annex, The Abu Dhabi Edition, Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi, Thur and Fri 8pm to 3am. Tel (02) 2080000. annexabudhabi.com 68_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Mad on Yas Island

Dubbed ‘the largest nightclub in the UAE’, the graffiti covered club on Yas Island brings in big names (Tinie Tempah, Eve and Kid Ink), has friendly staff and thankfully doesn’t take itself too seriously. The opulent nightclub features 360 degree projection mapping, huge animated LED screens, an exceptional sound system, beautiful light shows and a luxurious VIP area.

Mad on Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (055) 8346262. facebook.com/MadYasIsland

ONYX ABU DHABI

Based at Novotel Al Bustan, Onyx Club had its grand opening over the summer with a line-up packed full of great DJs. Check out the ladies’ night on Mondays, which welcomes commercial and hip-hop DJ Eyjey.

Novotel Al Bustan, Abu Dhabi. 10pm to late. Tel: (050) 977 9535. @onyxabudhabi

DUBAI

1OAK

1OAK

Originating from the Meat Packing District of New York, ‘one of a kind’ 1Oak is a regular haunt for many of the biggest urban musicians and celebrities. In Dubai, it’s a place for residents to come and feel like a celebrity.

The futuristic interiors and cushy booths create a highclass atmosphere. While international artists have been known to grace the stage, the focus is on resident DJs creating a consistently cool vibe.

1Oak, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Tue and Thur 11pm to 3am, Fri and Sun 11pm to 4am. Tel: (052) 8818888.

1oak-dubai.com

1OAK

Analog Room

If your idea of the perfect nightclub is a much more intimate affair, then you should probably check out Analog Room. With a vibe reminiscent of the days when someone would get on the decks at a house party, Analog Room invites the very best underground DJs to come and help the crowd let loose.

With a focus on electronic dance music, Analog Room hosts weekly events with a variety of local and international artists.

Analog Room, behind Ibis Al Barsha, Wed 7pm to 2am, Thur & Fri 9pm to 3am. Tel: (050) 8833172. analogroom.com

Analog Room

ARMANI/PRIVÉ

Fancy partying in the world’s tallest building? Armani/Privé offers a taste of luxury lifestyle inside the Burj Khalifa. It’s one of Dubai’s longest standing nightclubs, having opened in 2010. The venue is located on the first floor of the 163-storey building, and is split between a slightly raised bar area and main dance floor next to the stage. The club, which was designed by Giorgio Armani, now has three ladies’ nights, one of which is hosted

by Secret Parties, on Sundays, Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Armani/Prive, Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Sun, Tue and Thur to Sat, 11pm to 4am. Tel: (052) 176 9420. armanihoteldubai.com

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Code, Soho Garden, Meydan, Fri 11pm to 4am. Tel: (052) 388 8849. sohogardendxb.com

Drai’s

Drai’s

BASE

BASE stormed onto the clubbing scene in 2017 and has continued to draw crowds with its huge artist performances, creative live entertainment and futuristic lights and visuals. Over the past two years, the super club has brought the likes of French Montana, Black Coffee, Rick Ross, David Guetta, Jason Derulo and many more.

Currently BASE is open two nights per week; Thursdays are R&B and urban tunes, while Fridays are house and techno. Throughout the upcoming season, guests can expect live performances from world-renowned artists.

BASE Dubai, Dubai Design District, Thur and Fri, 11pm to 4am. Tel: (055) 3134999. basedubai.com

Billionaire Mansion

The most exciting thing about Billionaire Mansion isn’t actually the nightclub, but the adjoining restaurant. Throw yourself into an immersive dining experience, complete with unique and extravagant 70_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

entertainment, and enjoy the very special dinner and show combo. Once you’re suitably fed and entertained, get ready to party as Billionaire Mansion is known for throwing some equally extravagant nights out.

Billionaire Mansion, Taj Hotel, Business Bay, Tue and Wed 7pm to 3am, Thur to Sun 7pm to 4am, Mon closed. Tel: (04) 510 3100. billionairemansiondubai.com

BOA

Located on the 32nd floor of V Hotel in Al Habtoor City, BOA club is a super-sized venue complete with lavish interiors and a line-up of superstar performers regularly on the bill. The club is open five times a week, with free drinks offered for ladies on most nights. The music switches between urban and R&B to commercial and pop throughout the week. Past performers include Drake, Kid Ink, Ramz and Jeremih.

BOA, V Hotel, Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road, Sun and Wed to Sat, 11pm to 4am. Tel: (056) 501 2039. boadubai.com

Cavalli Club

Flashy, loud, and ostentatious, Cavalli is one of Dubai’s longest standing nightlife venues, having opened in 2009. The huge club, restaurant and lounge has an extravagant interior design – that you’ll either love or loathe – and the calibre of artists who perform here is impressive.

Cavalli Club, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, daily 8.30pm to 4am. Tel: (04) 3329260. cavalliclubdubai.com

Code

A new addition, Code offers a different take on nightclubs that European visitors might be more familiar with. Rather than an open-air venue surrounding a large central bar, Code is much more of a warehouse-style. Only open once a week, the Friday night line-up has a house and techno focus, with artists from Elrow, Ministry of Sound and Defected regularly on the bill.

If you’re a fan of festivals, particularly the rave tents, then you’ll definitely enjoy the Code experience.

Hailing from America’s number one party destination, Las Vegas, Drai’s DXB offers a taste of the US’ lavish partying lifestyle in the Middle East.

From Wiz Khalifa to French Montana, Nelly and Ne-Yo, the superclub has had many of the biggest names in hiphop and R&B on its stage.

There’s a popular ladies’ night every Tuesday, which offers complimentary entry and drinks for girls, alongside tunes from its resident urban DJ. Drai’s DXB, Meydan, Tue, Thur and Fri, 11pm to 4am. Tel: (052) 388 8857. draisdxb.com

The Hatch

When you think about an underground nightclub, you might imagine it to be tucked away in a backstreet, or in the basement of a hotel, but The Hatch is unique. Located on Dubai’s prestigious floating hotel, QE2, The Hatch is found in the engine room, seven metres underwater, deep inside the ship. Due to limited capacity, you have to pre-book your ticket to party here.

The Hatch, QE2, Port Mina Rashid, various Thur and Fri 9pm to 3am. Tel: (050) 375 9715. thehatchdubai.com

Billionaire Mansion

IGNITE THE NIGHT WITH YOUR GIRLS AT SOBE – AN ADULTS’ ONLY PLAYGROUND. DEFY THE RULES AND DANCE FROM DUSK TILL DAWN TO ELECTRIFYING BEATS BY DJ B LUV Soak it up with 4 COMPLIMENTARY drinks Enjoy selected bites at AED 35, for ladies only

6PM – 1AM Fifth Floor, W Dubai The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah T +9714 245 5800 | sobedubai@whotels.com | sobedubai.com | @sobedubai

Secret Room

Tucked away in FIVE Palm Jumeirah is the ultra-lavish and golden Secret Room. In contrast, the club is accessed via a grungy graffiti’d corridor, or for super VIP guests, in the comfort of their own car, driven straight into the club.

Open on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, Secret Room offers a mix of hip-hop, R&B and latino music at its weekly events.

Secret Room, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, Sun, Tue, Thur and Fri 11pm to 5am. Tel: (058) 8698996. secretroomdubai.com

Skorpeus

Secret Room

Industrial Avenue

Make your way through the grafitti’d urinals (yes, seriously) and you’ll find yourself inside Industrial Avenue, a converted event space, with newspaper-lined walls and concrete flooring – a far cry from the plush velvet booths and ornate furnishings you might find in other Dubai clubs. Attached to the club is The Shoreditch, otherwise known as the ‘hangout bar’, where the pre-party begins over a game of table football.

Once you’ve made the most of the daily drinks deals in The Shoreditch, head into Industrial Avenue for an upclose and personal music experience where you’re as likely to find yourself in a dance off with a stranger as you are to see the DJ crowd-diving from the stage.

Industrial Avenue, Westin Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina, Mon and Tue 10pm to 3am, 72_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Thur 9pm to 3am, Fri 9pm to 4am. Tel: (052) 293 5907. industrialavenuedubai.com

Mantis

DIFC hotspot Mantis, opened early this year in Emirates Financial Towers.

The futuristic-style venue is home to a state-of-the-art light and sound system and combines a chic lounge with a laid-back ‘immersive room’ to relax in. The bar also offers an extensive food menu, including ‘sophisticated Asian and South American-inspired dishes and classic European favourites’. Mantis is open three nights a week. On Wednesdays, there’s an urban and hip-hop vibe; Thursdays are a mix of commercial pop and R&B, while Fridays offer non-stop hip-hop, commercial, old school and afrobeats.

Mantis, Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC, Wed to Sat 10.30pm to 4am. Tel: (058) 892 2488. mantis-club.com

Skorpeus

Mantis

Located inside the very regal Emerald Palace Kempinski, Skorpeus is part lounge, bar and nightclub. With a variety of events on rotation, you can never be too sure what you’ll find at Skorpeus, whether it’s masked dancers performing a perfectly unified routine, an immersive theatre dinner experience or vibrant Latin night hosted by professional salsa teachers.

Skorpeus, Emerald Palace Kempinski, Palm Jumeirah, Wed to Sun 6pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 2488840. facebook.com/Skorpeus

Sky 2.0

Sky 2.0

The sister-property of Beirut’s famous Skybar, Sky 2.0 opened in March 2019 and has just reopened for its second season in Dubai. Offering an alternative to the clubbing norm, Sky2.0 puts a heavy focus on design and details, with its UFO-style shell instantly recognisable when you reach d3. The club is open three nights per week, with ‘Dstrkt’ Wednesdays tailored to Dubai’s urban music fans.

Thursdays are their ‘Signature’ night, offering a mix of house music and R&B. On Fridays, ‘Boom Box’ will take you back throughout the decades, playing the best in dance, hiphop and R&B music.

Sky2.0, Dubai Design District, Wed to Fri 10pm to 4am. Tel: (04) 5876333. skydubai.com

Toy Room

What was once a cosy miniclub in Al Murooj Rotana, Toy Room has since moved to a bigger space at Meydan and evolved into the lively hotspot we know today, regularly hosting popular singers and rappers of the moment.

Toy Room, Soho Garden, Meydan, Mondays and Wednesday to Saturday, 11pm to 4am. Tuesdays and Sundays closed. Tel: (052) 4633338. toyroomdxb.com 74_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Sky 2.0

Toy Room

WHITE

Consistently dubbed one of the ‘world’s top 100 clubs’, White Dubai is a mustvisit if you’re looking for a big nightlife experience. The superclub regularly hosts big name artists from around the world, including Steve Aoki, Jason Derulo, Skepta and Tinie Tempah. For those with a VIP table, the club offers a taste of luxury living, with a raised area to look out onto the crowd. The open-air club offers views stretching from Downtown Dubai’s iconic skyline, right across the city.

Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, there’s a heavy focus on hip-hop and R&B music, with Thursdays dedicated to London’s thriving music scene, Fridays offering a multi-genre party, and Saturdays focused on the very best in urban tunes.

White Dubai, Meydan Racecourse Grandstand Rooftop, Nad Al Sheba 1, Thur to Sat, 10pm to 4am.

Tel: (050) 4430933. whitedubai.com

NEZESAUSSI GRILL HAS YOUR WHOLE WEEK ALL PLANNED OUT FOR YOU

Nezesaussi Grill’s signature laid-back vibe makes it the perfect place to watch every major sporting event, as you enjoy a wide variety of thirst-quenching hops. With special theme nights and daily happy hour from 5 to 8 pm (Sunday to Thursday), you’ll have to make sure you plan your life carefully to fit it all in.

For details on our daily promotions, please follow us on Facebook.

Tel +971 4 888 3444 | dine@emaar.com | addresshotels.com |

/NezesaussiGrill

McGettigans’s

From 6pm to 10pm, ladies receive four free drinks and 50 per cent off the main menu at this popular Irish bar.

Al Raha Beach Abu Dhabi, Tue 6pm to 10pm, free and 50 per cent off the main menu. Tel: (02) 6524333. mcgettigans.com

ABU DHABI

Stratos Abu Dhabi

VaKaVa

SUN

c.mondo Bar

The hotel’s cosy bar offers a cool ladies’ night every Sunday and Wednesday where ladies get free flowing bubbly, and house beverages from 6pm to midnight. c.mondo bar, Centro Capital Centre, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi, Sun and Wed 6pm to midnight. Tel: (02) 4096666. rotana.com

District By Amalfi

It’s not all about the drinks at Amalfi at Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi. While you enjoy an evening of unlimited drinks, you will also get antipasti, cheese, pizzas and lots of vegan fare for just Dhs99.

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, Sun 7pm to 10pm, Dhs99.

Tel: (800) 101101. districtbyamalfi.com

Impressions Rooftop Bar

Impressions Rooftop Bar at the gorgeous Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel has a brilliant daily offer every day for ladies. For just Dhs85, ladies receive three drinks off a selected menu and you can even have your pick of a food platter from a choice of Yo Sushi, Walk and Roll and Dancing Shrimps.

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel, Al Kheeran Abu Dhabi, daily, 7pm to 10pm.

Tel: (02) 656 1000. anantara.com 76_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

MON

Catch

This What’s On Award winner offers two ladies’ nights: Monday and Saturday. Ladies get four free drinks every Monday from 9pm to 1am, and on Saturdays, ladies need only pay Dhs99 for four drinks.

St Regis Corniche, Abu Dhabi, Mon and Sat 9pm to 1am.

Tel: (02) 6110909. catch.ae

Market Kitchen

Head to Market Kitchen’s Attic Bar at Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi on a Monday, and enjoy a selection of free-flowing mocktails and cocktails. Ladies, if you’re feeling peckish, order off the food menu and you will receive a 50 per cent discount, too.

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, , Mon 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (800) 101 101. marketkitchenabudhabi.com

Porters English Pub It’s three free drinks from 9pm to 11pm on Mondays and Tuesdays at this classic British pub.

Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Mon and Tue 9pm to 11pm.

Tel: (02) 495 3936. millenniumhotels.com

The Warehouse Wine & Tapas Bar

Ladies, head here on a Monday from 6pm when you can enjoy three free Frosé (frozen rosé

c.mondo Bar

slushi) cocktails.

Pearl Rotana Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, Mon 6pm to closing.

Tel: (02) 3075555. rotana.com

TUE

Glo Bar

Glo is the jaw-dropping openair bar at Rosewood Abu Dhabi and it gets its name from the venue’s striking signature lighting that illuminates the evening sky in the capital. On Tuesdays, ladies can listen to deep house music from DJ Keith while sipping on four free drinks.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, Tue 6pm to 9pm. Tel: (02) 8135550. rosewoodhotels.com

Hamilton’s Gastropub

Two free drinks plus an additional 50 per cent discount off the bites menu every Tuesdays.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi, Tue 6pm to 10pm.

Tel: (02) 6970000. rotana.com

Stratos is one of the first revolving restaurants in Abu Dhabi and offers a 360 degree view of the city. It’s ladies’ night on Tuesdays, where from 8pm to 11pm, ladies can enjoy unlimited red and white grape and one house cocktail. The house cocktail changes on a weekly basis though, so you’ll never get the same concoction twice. With your friends in tow, an amazing view and great drinks, all that’s left is a meal – which you can get 50 per cent off. Perfect.

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, Tue 8pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6950490. stratosabudhabi.com

VaKaVa

New Latin American restaurant VaKaVa Pan Latin Grill & Lounge has launched its Suavemente ladies’ night at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers.

Every Tuesday, ladies receive three free drinks from a selected menu from 8pm, which can be enjoyed in the Lounge and VaKaVa Terrace.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Tue 8pm onwards. Tel: (02) 8115555. jumeirah.com

WED

Casa De Cuba

This newcomer has made a big impact on Abu Dhabi’s nightlife scene. Kickstart your weekend early when, on Wednesdays, ladies get three drinks and unlimited sushi is Dhs45.

Yas Marina, Yas Island, Wed 7pm to 3am. Tel: (056) 7427435. casadecubaauh.com

LEXX

LEXX is a relative newcomer in Abu Dhabi, featuring a large terrace with spectacular views of the Corniche. Ladies receive four free drinks along with snacks every Wednesday.

Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates, Abu Dhabi, Wed 8pm to 2am. Tel: (056) 6850092. hyatt.com

PJ O’Reilly’s

One of the oldest pubs in the capital, PJ O’Reilly’s Wednesday ladies’ night includes three free house drinks plus a 50 per cent discount off food.

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi.

Wed7pm to 10pm. Tel: (02) 6950515. pjspubabudhabi.com

THUR

Harvesters

Ladies receive three complimentary drinks from 7pm to 11pm – a perfect way to celebrate the start of the weekend.

Holiday Inn Abu Dhabi Downtown Hotel, Thur 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6156666. facebook.com/ HarvestersAbuDhabi

LRM Central

It may not take place at night, but this ladies’ day deal at Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi is worth a mention. For Dhs49 from 10am to 6pm, you will get pool access, frozen mixed drinks and a sun lounger.

There’s also a 20 per cent discount off food.

Le Royal Meridien, Abu Dhabi, Thur 10am to 6pm. Tel: (800) 101101. marriott.com 78_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

QD’s

DUBAI SUN

Blue Blanc

Step through Bleu Blanc’s beautiful rustic blue doors and into a world of delicate French interior at Bleu Blanc. Every Sunday, ladies can enjoy three free drinks and 40 per cent off a special ladies’ night menu.

Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai, Sun 8pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 5125533. bleublancdubai.com

Coco Lounge

The ladies’ night at Coco Lounge comes with three free drinks and a soulful house music policy. In their ladies’ day offering, you can get five drinks for Dhs50 and 30 per cent off food from noon to 7pm every Sunday.

Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Sun 12pm to 7pm. Tel: (04) 4271000. mediaonehotel.com

QD’s

Three free glasses of sparkling or selected cocktails at legendary

sundowner spot QD’s with unrivalled views of the Creek and Dubai skyline.

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai Creek, Sun 8pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 295 6000. dubaigolf.com

MON

La Carnita

With hip-hop tunes and Margaritas a-plenty, this Marina Mexican is likely to become your new Monday night hotspot, offering free drinks for ladies. Enjoy a set menu with free-flowing margaritas and sangrias for Dhs150 between 7pm and 9pm.

InterContinental Dubai Marina, Mon 8pm to 12am.

Tel: (04) 4254030. lacarnita.ae

Sheraton Grand Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Mon 7pm.

Tel: (04) 3562900. facebook. com/misslilysdxb

Observatory Bar & Grill

The Queen Social ladies’ night serves unlimited selected house drinks for Dhs52 as well as 30 per cent off food every Monday. Best of all, it takes place on the 52nd floor, with panoramic views of Dubai Marina.

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina, Mon 8pm to midnight. marriottharbourdubaidining.com

Miss Lily’s

Get your girls for Miss Lily’s Pum Pum Party every Monday, where you’ll get five dishes of Caribbean fare along with three selected cocktails for Dhs120. DJ Crown Prince gets the party going.

Coco Lounge

can enjoy the same deal for Dhs195.

Azure Residences, The Palm Jumeirah, Tue 7pm to 10pm, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 568 3137. facebook.com/ilfarodxb

The Penthouse

This lively, adults-only rooftop day club and evening lounge offers spectacular views of the stunning Dubai skyline. On ladies’ night, girls can enjoy three free drinks and appetisers from 8pm to 11pm.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Tue 8pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4559989. facebook. com/ThePenthouseDubai

MON

Toy Room

Frank the bear is back and causing mischief at his new home in the Meydan nightlife complex, Soho Garden. Every Monday, ladies can enjoy unlimited free drinks from 11pm until 1am.

Soho Garden, Meydan, Mon 11pm to 4am. Tel: (052) 4633338.

Facebook.com/ToyRoomdxb

TUE

All’onda

For Dhs100, ladies enjoy unlimited house drinks and 50 per cent off a selected menu while listening to classic R&B sounds from DJ Mitchell. The tasty menu has been designed for sharing and features some of their mostloved signature dishes.

Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Tue 7pm to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 2488870. @allondadxb

Asia Asia

Every Tuesday, this popular Marina ladies’ night gives all girls three complimentary drinks from 6pm to 1am from a selection of cocktails and grape.

There’s a bit of a circuit in Pier 7, with another three venues also offering ladies’ night deals in the building on the same night, and they all have picturesque views.

Pier 7, Dubai Marina, Tue 6pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 2765900. asiaasia.com

Atelier M

At the top of Pier 7, this is usually the last stop on the Tuesday ladies’ night circuit.

Girls can start in the restaurant with two drinks and a set 80_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Atelier M

menu for Dhs190, then head to the lounge where they’ll receive four free drinks and then up to the rooftop bar where you can get another four free drinks.

Pier 7, Tue 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4507766. atelierm.ae

Barbary

On Tuesday, this swish cocktail bar in Barsha Heights serves unlimited drinks for ladies from 8pm to midnight, alongside a cool vinyl soundtrack. This one fills up fast, so book early.

TRYP by Wyndham, Barsha Heights, daily 8pm to 12am.

Tel: (04) 2476688. barbary.ae

Billionaire Mansion

Monroe Tuesdays includes a brunch where girls can enjoy a three-course dinner (and freeflowing drinks) for Dhs250.

Taj Dubai, Business Bay. Tue 10pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 5103100. billionairemansiondubai.com

Casa de Tapas

The ladies’ night at Casa de Tapas serves free sangria every Tuesday from 8pm. There’s an authentic Spanish tapas bar feel, and great views out to the creek.

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Tue 8pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 416 1800. dubaigolf.com

STK JBR District

It’s three free house drinks or cocktails for ladies. If you’re hungry you can also order two courses for Dhs99. Sit out on the terrace and enjoy the views across Bluewaters.

Rixos Premium JBR, Dubai, Tue 6pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 3941832. districtdxb.com

folly

Ladies are given three complimentary drinks when they spend Dhs50 on food. The deal takes place every Tuesday from 6pm to midnight, and is served alongside a retro soundtrack.

Madinat Jumeirah, Tue 6pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 4308535. folly.ae

Grapeskin

At this City Walk spot, ladies receive two glasses and a free cheeseboard to share. After two glasses, drinks cost a pursesavvy Dhs25.

La Ville, City Walk, Dubai, Tue 8pm to 10pm. Tel: (054) 3095948. livelaville.com

Il Faro

Picturesque Italian Il Faro on the Palm invites ladies to enjoy unlimited pizza and bubbly for Dhs150 a person. Plus, you can bring along the boys who

Sleek JBR steakhouse STK has a great ladies’ night deal. On top of five free drinks from 7pm to 1am, there’s also a set menu for the girls at Dhs199 for two courses, or three courses for Dhs239. It includes STK signatures including a 150g fillet steak with STK sauce and French fries, roasted salmon, crème brulee and the muchloved cheesecake.

Rixos Premium, JBR, Tue 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 3230061. facebook. com/STKDUBAIJBR

STK Downtown

A partnership between party brand Candypants and STK Downtown, ‘Doris’s Dinner Party’ runs every Tuesday from 6pm until 1am. There are two options available whether you’re looking for dinner and drinks, or just drinks.

Just like its JBR counterpart, ladies’ night set menus will be available priced at Dhs199, or upgrade to three course menu and it’s Dhs239. But rather than just offering three free drinks, ladies will be able to take advantage of an open bar offering unlimited selected drinks all night.

STK Dubai Downtown, Address Downtown, Tue 6pm to 1am.

Tel: (04) 4253948. facebook.com/ STKDubaiDowntown

Maiden Shanghai

The Crazy Rich Ladies Night kicks off every Wednesday from 7pm to 11.30pm and includes a three-course meal of gourmet Chinese dishes for Dhs150 along with three free drinks.

There’s also an afterparty if you’re not ready to hang up your dancing shoes.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Wed 7pm to 11.30pm.

Tel: (04) 455 9989. fivehotelsandresorts.com

The Maine Oyster Bar and Grill

Wavehouse

This fun house at Atlantis, The Palm offers three free house drinks, frozen cocktails or grape from 7pm to 1am. The night also includes a voucher for Dhs100 worth of credit for LEVELS gaming, 50 per cent discount at the bowling alley, and a ride on the wave machine.

Atlantis, The Palm, Tue 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 4262626. atlantisthepalm.com/wavehouse

Vault

to 12am. Tel: (04) 514 9339. facebook.com/Couqley

Distillery

Distillery is a brand-new player on Dubai’s bar scene, with a cool speakeasy-style vibe. You’ll find it in Souk Manzil, Downtown and on Wednesdays from 9pm, ladies get free selected drinks along with 2-for-1 on selected dishes.

Souk Manzil, Downtown Dubai, Wed 9pm. Tel: (04) 3298899. facebook.com/distillerydubai

Walk through the golden entrance of JW Marriott Marquis’ nightclub Vault, and choose three free drinks – from standard house beverages to carefully crafted cocktails – every Tuesday until midnight.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Business Bay, Tue 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 4143000. facebook.com/TheVaultDubai

FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar

WED

Key West

Couqley

This cosy JLT bistro (pronounced Coo-clay, FYI) serves free-flowing grape and selected drinks as well as 3-for2 on top French dishes to share every Wednesday, perfect for a catch up with the girls.

Cluster A, JLT, Dubai, Wed 8pm 82_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Ladies enjoy three free drinks from 7pm to 10pm, or they can choose to spend just Dhs99 for a three-hour unlimited drinks package. There are small plates available from Dhs25 to Dhs50.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront, Business Bay, Wed 7pm. Tel: (04) 2497800. firelake.ae Round up the girls on a Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm for unlimited grape, bubbles and mixed drinks, all served at Nikki Beach Resort and Spa. Nikki Beach Resort and Spa, Pearl Jumeirah, Wed 7pm to 11pm.

Tel: (04) 3766000. dubai. nikkibeach.com/dine/key-west

The Maine Oyster Bar and Grill and The Maine Street Eatery Both outposts of the popular brasserie hosts the ‘Clam Jam’ every Wednesday from 8pm to midnight. There’s freeflowing red, white and rosé for all the ladies seated (or standing) at the bar.

DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR and Studio One, Studio City, Wed 8pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 457 6719. themaine.ae

Mina’s Kitchen

The revamped Mina’s Kitchen has launched a new ladies’ night called Glamour-Us Ladies Night, offering four free drinks for the girls and 50 per cent off the buffet price, making it Dhs105. Gents can also get in on the action with 25 per cent off the buffet and extended happy hour offers between 7pm and midnight.

Westin Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina, Wed 7pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 5117373. facebook.com/ minaskitchendubai

Paru

Paru is a pretty swanky option for a ladies’ night and it has epic views. The Wednesday ladies’ night runs from 4pm to 11pm and includes four free drinks and 25 per cent off food.

Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, Wed 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 556 6666. facebook.com/ParuDubai

Ramusake

It’s become so popular that reservations are essential to guarantee entry to Ramusake’s ladies’ night, which includes unlimited grape until 12am.

DoubleTree by Hilton, Jumeirah Beach, Wed 7pm to midnight.

Tel: (04) 5595300. ramusake.ae

SoBe

Dubai’s trendiest new rooftop bar, Scandalous at SoBe offers four free drinks and selected bar bites from Dhs35 every Wednesday. Take in the stunning 360-degree skyline views with a refreshing beverage in hand.

W Dubai – The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Wed 6pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 2455555. wdubaithepalm.com

THUR

Ba

The stylish Ba Restaurant and Lounge has a brilliant Thursday ladies’ night offering where ladies can enjoy unlimited drinks (including their fancy cocktails) between 6pm and 9pm for just Dhs99.

Ba Restaurant and Lounge, Fairmont The Palm, Thur 6pm to 9pm, Dhs99. Tel: (04) 4573457. fairmont.com

Brunswick

Ladies can enjoy three free drinks from 8pm to midnight every Thursday at Brunswick.

DJ Ben Echo spins Sheraton Mall Of The Emirates Hotel, Al Barsha, Thur 8pm to midnight. Tel: (056) 4040685. brunswickebt.com

Noir

This high-end cocktail bar puts a chic twist on ladies’ night every Thursday. ‘Oysters and Pearls’ night includes unlimited bubbles from 8pm to 11pm for Dhs195 per person. How sophisticated darling.

Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Thur 8pm to 11pm, Dhs105. Tel: (04) 409 5222. noir-dubai.com

La Carnita

DUBAI La Carnita

La Carnita is dedicating Sundays to the fellas with its Los Caballeros evening.

For Dhs150, guys can tuck into five traditional Mexican dishes with three free drinks.

InterContinental, Dubai Marina, Sun 6pm. Tel: (04) 4254030. lacarnita.ae

McGettigans DWTC

McGettigans DWTC is all about the girls and the guys on Monday nights where girls will receive four free mixed drinks, and the guys receive two free pints.

McGettigan’s DWTC, Sheikh Zayed Road, Mon 8pm to 10pm.

Tel: (04) 3780800. mcgettigans. com/dwtc-dubai

Asia De Cuba

On Tuesdays, lads get free house drinks from 7pm to 9pm, as do ladies, until midnight.

There’s also 50 per cent off a special menu for food. Make sure you book.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai, Tue 7pm to 9pm. Tel: (04) 5117333. asiadecuba.com/dubai

The Hideout

Huge screens showing the sport? Check. Unlimited drinks? Check. Delicious food? Check. The Hideout has everything you need for a night with the lads and even better, its Tuesday deal includes four hours’ unlimited food and drink for just Dhs150.

Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai 84_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Wavehouse Mr Miyagi’s

Marina, Tue 8pm to midnight, Dhs150. Tel: (058) 5346000. facebook.com/Thehideoutdubai

Mr Miyagi’s

For Dhs99 men can enjoy two Asian dishes and a complimentary spirit house mixer only on Wednesdays.

Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Wed 5pm, Dhs99. Tel: (04) 4207489. mrmiyagisdubai.com

Observatory

Three hours’ unlimited wings and pints for Dhs150 or a main course and a bottle of house wine or three pints for Dhs150.

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai, Tue noon to 11pm unlimited wings & beer for Dhs150, 5pm to 11pm, main course and a bottle of wine or three beers for Dhs150. Tel: (04) 3194000. marriottharbourdubaidining.com

The Lion by Nick & Scott

Head to The Lion at the H Hotel on Tuesdays where there’s a great deal for guys and girls. It’s two free house drinks for guys, and unlimited free drinks for girls when you spend Dhs50 each on food.

The H Hotel, Downtown Dubai, Tue 7pm. Tel: (04) 3592366. facebook.com/TheLionDubai

The 44

There are two gents’ nights at sports bar The 44; one on Wednesdays and one on

Asia De Cuba

Saturdays. From 8pm to 11pm, pay Dhs195 for free-flowing selected drinks.

Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Dubai, Wed and Sat 8pm to 11pm.

Tel: (054) 581 1758. facebook.com/ the44dubai

Prime 68

While your steak is sizzling away, lads can get a beard trim or a hot towel facial, before wolfing down a main-course, selection of sides and a bottle of wine. The deal costs Dhs399 for two people, or Dhs950 for four people and is available on Wednesdays.

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai,Sheikh Zayed Rd, Wed 6pm to midnight, Tel: (04) 4143000. jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

Nezesaussi Grill

It’s a lad’s happy hour every Saturday from 4pm to 2am at Nezesaussi Grill in Dubai Marina.

Address Dubai Marina, Sat 4pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 8883444. facebook.com/NezesaussiGrill

Wavehouse

Looking for the ultimate boys’ day out? Head to entertainment destination Wavehouse at Atlantis, The Palm any Saturday, and order a full English breakfast with two pints and unlimited access to the wave-rider machine for Dhs120. There’s plenty of Premier League action on the screens, too.

Atlantis, The Palm, Sat Dhs120.

Tel: (04) 4262626. facebook.com/ wavehousedubai

El Sombrero

If you fancy a feast fiestastyle, you’ll love this vibrant all-you-can-eat-and-drink affair. Featuring selected fruity house drinks and Mexican hops, once you’ve filled up you can burn off the calories to the sounds of live music by Banda la Noche from 8pm to 11.45pm.

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, Fri 6.30pm to 12am, Dhs249 with soft and house drinks. Tel: (02) 6773333. sheratonabudhabihotel.com

Fairmont Firday Brunch Appaloosa Sports Bar

ABU DHABI Appaloosa Sports Bar

Sometimes brunch is best served with a heaping side of friends, and at Marriott Al Forsan’s Appaloosa restaurant, it’s a lot cheaper, too. The Bring Your Own Friends brunch serves three courses of pub grub platters served to your table. The standard price is Dhs249 for four hours of unlimited platters and house drinks, but groups of 10 or more pay just Dhs222 per person instead. Expect a live band, plus beer pong and pool tables to help keep you and your pals entertained.

Marriott Hotel Al Forsan Abu Dhabi, Fri 1pm to 5pm, Dhs249 per person, or Dhs222 per person (groups of 10 or above). Tel: (02) 2014131. marriottalforsanlife.com

Bubbalicious Brunch The Westin’s Bubbalicious Brunch offers a range of cuisines (Asian, Mediterranean, Arabic and western), plus signature 86_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

mixologist stations, live music, and activities for children.

With so much on offer, there’s a good reason it’s awardwinning – to be honest the fact there are over 20 different types of cheese is enough for us. And it just got even better with a new selection of drinks stations.

The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs336 with soft drinks, Dhs430 with house drinks, Dhs624 with premium drinks. Tel: (02) 6169999. westinabudhabigolfresort.com

Coya

Abu Dhabi’s Peruvian restaurant is a big hit, serving delicious Peruvian-inspired dishes. The live band starts at 3pm.

The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs238 for soft drinks, Dhs378 for house drinks, Dhs498 with premium drinks. Tel: (02) 3067000. coyarestaurant.com

Featuring succulent steaks from Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill, New York-Italian favourites at the newly-opened Marco’s New York Italian alongside a lavish International selections at CuiScene, there is something for everyone to feast on at Fairmont’s celebrated Friday brunch.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, Fri noon to 4pm, Dhs345 with soft drinks, Dhs459 with house drinks, Dhs645 with premium drinks. Tel: (02) 6543238. fairmont.com/babalbahr

Kuzbara at Marriott Hotel Downtown

The EAT.PLAY.LAUGH brunch at Marriott Downtown has relaunched with new food and drink stations. In fact,

it’s gone bigger and better, with additional games and entertainment. A resident magician will be on hand to wow you and your friends, while the DJ spins party tracks.

Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, Fri 12.30 to 4pm, Dhs260 with food and soft drinks, Dhs375 with house beverages and mixed drinks, Dhs415 with premium drinks, Dhs350 to extend drinks package to 8pm at Velocity. Tel: (02) 304777. eatplaylaughbrunch.com

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi

Le Royal Meridien is going big with the launch of three new brunches incorporating many of their food and drink outlets, and to celebrate.

Their Elements Brunch incorporates District By Amalfi, Wheat, Café Palmier and LRM Central, which is a fun outdoor assortment of food trucks. Hog Fest is on at PJ O’Reilly’s, while Market Kitchen gets in on the action with a California theme at the De’vine Friday Brunch.

Various outlets, Le Royal Meridien, Abu Dhabi. All brunches 1pm to 4pm. Hogfest packages from Dhs149 to Dhs199. Elements Brunch packages from Dhs275 to Dhs495; Dhs125 for children six to 12 years. Under sixes free.

Market Kitchen De’vine Friday brunch packages from Dhs250 to Dhs499. Tel: (02) 6742020. marriott.com Coya

EAT.PLAY.LAUGH brunch

PJ O’Reilly’s

The PJ’s meaty brunch takes place indoors as well as out on the new terrace. There’s also a selection of fantastic drinks offered in super reasonable packages.

Le Royal Meridien, Sheikh Khalifa Street Abu Dhabi, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs149 drinks only, Dhs199 for food and drinks. Tel: (02) 695 0515. pjspubabudhabi.com

Sho Cho

Best for partygoers, the Unplugged brunch serves contemporary Japanese food with a resident DJ on the decks.

The rock shrimp is amazing.

Souk At Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain, Abu Dhabi, Fri 12pm to 5pm, Dhs160 with soft drinks, Dhs245 with house drinks. Tel: (02) 5581117. sho-cho.com

PJ O’Reilly’s

Sho Cho

88_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Dim Sum Disco

DUBAI Dim Sum Disco at FIVE Palm Jumeirah The Candypants Dim Sum Disco brunch is a go-to for really great dishes coupled with a party vibe.

Taking place at the beautiful Maiden Shanghai in Dubai’s ultimate party hotel, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, the superclassy restaurant occupies three floors with a rooftop terrace on the top tier that serves as their popular post-brunch party spot.

The dishes are delicious, and tunes are coupled with live entertainment.

Our favourite is the colourful Chinese dragon that’s paraded around the restaurant for everyone to dance with.

Candypants’ Dim Sum Disco, Five Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 house drinks including prosecco. Tel: (04) 4559989. fivehotelsandresorts.com

El Secreto Brunch at La Carnita

Secret Parties brings El Secreto Brunch to La Carnita every Friday, and it’s arguably the best new fiesta in town. From its mouthwatering dishes, unlimited drinks, lively dancers and even a pinata hanging above the energetic crowd, it ticks all the boxes.

The food is served to your table sharing-style with all your favourite Mexican cuisine on the menu; a highlight being soft-shell

El Secreto Brunch

tacos stuffed with fried chicken, salsa fresca and a peanut lime hot sauce.

Special mention to the staff at this particular brunch who don’t just do great table service but get up and join the party – encouraging you to do the same.

El Secreto, La Carnita, InterContinental Dubai Marina, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs299 with soft drinks, Dhs399 with house drinks, Dhs499 with champagne.

Tel: (04) 4254030. secretparties.com

An urban gastro grill & bar where steak-lovers can enjoy carefully selected premium quality meat with the option of outdoor seating overlooking City Walk Dubai.

Join us every Tuesday for ‘No Bull’ and every Saturday for a 3 hours Grazing Feast.

La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK Dubai

+971 4 403 3111

grazelaville.com

laville.dining@autographhotels.com

grazedubai

of strangers dancing in unison to a famous song, which is always entertaining whether you’re joining in or watching from the sidelines.

Saffron, Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm, Fri Dhs535. Tel: (04) 426 2626. atlantis.com

Hidden Brunch at Treehouse

Treehouse is arguably one of the coolest terraces in the city, with unparalleled views of Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa silhouetted against the sky. Hidden Brunch by Love Parties has become a favourite among Dubai residents, and believe us, the party are unparalleled with house favourites on the playlist all afternoon long. Food is served from live cooking stations with everything from a barbecue to sushi bites, and there’s a range of cocktails to choose from. Treehouse is also known around town as the brunch after-party spot, serving excellent drinks deals from 4pm to 9pm.

Hidden Brunch, Tesoro and Treehouse, Taj Dubai, Downtown Dubai, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 with soft drinks, Dhs375 with house drinks, Dhs425 with sparkling. Tel: (052) 7987292. hiddenbrunch.com

Lock, Stock & Barrel

Lock, Stock & Barrel has become a Dubai institution and is especially popular with Brits for its laid-back pub-style vibes. If you want the crazy party brunch without having to dress up, then give this one a go. The Big Fat Brunch offers unlimited rounds of comforting international food and free-flowing drinks. There’s loads of fun games, loud music and it’s a great option for a fuss-free afternoon.

Big Fat Brunch, Lock Stock & Barrel, Rixos Premium JBR, The Walk, JBR, Fri 1pm to 4pm, 90_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Secret Brunch at Emerald Palace Kempinski

Lock, Stock & Barrel

Dhs369 with house drinks.

Tel: (04) 3927120. lsbdubai.com

Mr Miyagi’s

Mr Miyagi’s is well known in Dubai for its lively entertainment, cheesy pop tracks and loads of uncapped fun. If that’s exactly what you’re looking for then you need to try out the epic Wok N Roll Brunch. There are three sittings every weekend: Thursday from 8pm to 11pm and 2pm to 5pm, or 7pm to 10pm on Friday. The Asian dishes are simple and delicious, with the house drinks package priced at a wallet-friendly Dhs299.

Expect karaoke, dancing and belting out some of your favourite oldschool tunes.

Mr Miyagi’s, Media One Hotel, Dubai Media City, Thur 8pm to 11pm, Fri 2pm to 5pm or 7pm to 10pm, Dhs299 with house drinks, Dhs499 with sparkling. Tel: (04) 4207489. mrmiyagisdubai.com

Saffron at Atlantis, The Palm

Saffron at Atlantis, The Palm arguably created the mould for Dubai party brunches years ago and still remains one of the city’s most popular today.

The food and drink offering is vast, with numerous stations fit to bursting with every cuisine you can imagine, from seafood to hearty roast dinners.

If you manage to make your way around all of the drinks stations – we applaud you.

When the party kicks off, it kicks off, and you shouldn’t be surprised to see a whole crowd

Saffron

Brought to you by the Secret Parties group, this brunch is perfect to visit if you’re looking for somewhere for that big birthday brunch. It takes place at miX by Alain Ducasse, and for those who love a good Instagram opportunity, the outdoor terrace with 360 degree views out across the Arabian Gulf lends itself to be a pretty unbeatable backdrop.

Entertainment starts off with DJs playing the latest tunes, then as the party ramps up, out come the metallic dancers, a saxophonist, drummer and a vocalist, getting everyone on their feet. While it’s not the brunch for the ultimate foodie, it’ll definitely give you that classic Dubai party brunch you’re looking for.

The Secret Brunch, Emerald Palace Kempinski, Palm Jumeirah, Fri 1pm to 5pm, Dhs299 with soft drinks, Dhs399 with house drinks, Dhs499 with sparkling. Tel: (04) 2488860. secret-parties.com/ secretbrunchpalace

Secret Brunch

Secret Garden Brunch

We Brunch at Accents

When you’re looking for a party brunch with brilliant views, you need to book We Brunch, brought to you by Love Parties. It boasts an international buffet, a mix of table service and stations for drinks, and an almost guaranteed power hour of dancing by the end, with everything from cheesy pop to old-school anthems blasting out of the speakers. Expect balloons, bathtubs of confetti and a whole lot of glitter. Now that the weather has cooled down, the outdoor terrace is open for brunching with incredible views right onto the Dubai Marina – so make sure you book in advance to bag a coveted spot.

We Brunch, Accents, InterContinental Dubai Marina, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs325 with soft drinks, Dhs375 with house drinks and Dhs425 with champagne. Tel:(052) 7987292. webrunchdxb.com

Secret Garden Brunch at Flair No.5

If it’s the ultimate outdoor party brunch spot that you’re after, you really can’t go wrong with Secret Garden 92_What’s On Nightlife_11.2019

Brunch. Another string on the undeniably successful bow of the Secret Parties group, the setting of Flair No.5 is seriously cool. As the name of the brunch suggests, the everpopular spot has a garden vibe, nestled at the centre of DIFC. Tables are set on different levels of the decking, surrounding an impressive central bar where expertlycrafted cocktails are served by mixologists. It might take you a while to get there though as you stop and sample drinks from various stations serving up everything from Aperol spritz to martinis or smokey old fashioneds.

Food is served sharing style, with influences from Asian and Mexico and the lively party kicks off pretty much from the moment you get there, with resident DJs on the decks all day.

Secret Garden Party, Flair No. 5, The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Fri 1pm to 5pm. Dhs299 with soft drinks, Dhs399 with house drinks, Dhs499 sparkling. Tel: (04) 372 2323. secret-parties.com

STK Downtown

STK Downtown’s brunch is pretty legendary, with a waiting list that’s often booked

up for six weeks – so make sure you plan well in advance.

The food is a particular stand out so definitely one for those looking for grub that’s as good as the party. The starters include dishes such as fresh burrata, prawn cocktail and beef tartare, but the absolute heroes are their Lil Brgs (mini sliders), which you will keep finding space for. You’ll then order from a choice of mains – but we recommend keeping it simple with their New York steak. Desserts are equally delicious with a decadent chocolate mousse, creamy cheesecake and light creme brulee. The entertainment is big and bold with metallic men dancers, massive tunes and a saxophonist that will, quite literally, have you dancing on the tables. Can’t make it from 1pm to 4pm on a Friday? No worries, another one kicks off from 8pm to 11pm.

STK Downtown Dubai, Address Downtown, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Fri 1pm to 4pm or 8pm to 11pm. Dhs399 with soft drinks, Dhs599 with house drinks, Dhs649 with sparkling. Tel: (04) 4253948. stksteakhouse.com

STK JBR, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Rixos Premium JBR, Fri 1pm t0 4pm or 8pm to 11pm, Dhs399 with soft drinks, Dhs599 with house drinks, Dhs649 with sparkling. Tel: (04) 323 0061. stksteakhouse.com

Wanderlust at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

If you’re looking for an outside party brunch, Wanderlust is a stalwart on Dubai’s party brunch scene. The food is varied, with 10 international buffets and live cooking stations bursting with all different kinds of cuisine.

Drinks stations range from classic mojitos to pina coladas encased in a coconut. Tunes are blasting all day so expect to be on the dancefloor by 4pm.

Wanderlust, JW Marriot Marquis, Business Bay, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Fri 1pm to 4pm, Dhs395 house drinks. Tel: (04) 4140000. jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com

STK JBR

Just like its sister restaurant STK Downtown, STK JBR can always be counted on to provide some delicious food BEACH BASH and awesome For beach and pool party entertainment. brunches check The deal is exactly out p27 the same, with for more! unlimited starters including the infamous Lil Brgs and for mains, if you’re not trying the steak, go for their creamy risotto. The music is amped pretty much from your arrival and launches into a full scale party – complete with live sax, sparklers and dancing disco men – not too long after STK Downtown it’s started.

STK JBR

grape & cheese tuesdays at holiday inn abu dhabi downtown for memorable cheese & grapes night, visit jones the grocer at holiday inn abu dhabi downtown. all you can eat from a selection of fresh cheese varieties paired with antipasti delicacies. we also carry a wide selection of hard - to - find australian made craft brews as well as high quality gourmet grocery items. tuesdays | 7pm to 10pm AED 179 including unlimited grapes per person

for reservations contact us:

PARKING

+971 50 612 3489

Open daily from 7am to 12am Zayed The First Street, POB 32430 Telephone: 02 615 6440 Email: holidayinn@jonesthegrocer.com jonesthegrocer.com

EAT + DRINK + SHOP RATING FOOD A+ to CVIBE Family Friendly Party Casual Romantic Fancy PRICE (FOR TWO) Up to Dhs249 Dhs250 to Dhs749 Dhs750+

PA G E 101

Sharing’s caring

Prepare for a feast at Roberto’s new brunch concept REIF p96 MAZI p106 COYA ABU DHABI BRUNCH p110

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

REIF KUSHIYAKI

A restaurant you need on your culinary bucket list eif Othman is a well-known name on Dubai’s foodie scene.

Credited with putting Zuma on the international culinary map, he then turned his attentions to homegrown restaurant Play, where he also oversaw the creation of his incredible chefs table concept, The Experience by Reif Othman, before helming the kitchen at Billionaire Mansion.

For his latest venture though, Othman has turned his back on big brands, lavish décor and sparkler shows in favour of an altogether simpler approach. His self-titled restaurant, REIF Kushiyaki, is a humble, 29-seater unlicensed Asian venue in Dar Wasl mall.

The décor is simple, with plain white walls interrupted only by a specially commissioned Astro Boy manga artwork. Seating options are split between tables of two or four that form an L-shape around the kitchen, and counter seating for those that like a prime view of the chefs at work.

Neat drawers pull out at the tables to reveal a laminated version of the menu, and cutlery for those that prefer it to chopsticks.

A paper copy of the menu is also provided, with guests asked to tick their choices. As the menu suggests, there’s a big focus on kushiyaki (traditional Japanese meat and poultry skewers) here, but you’re making a mistake if you don’t also make your way through the South-East Asian influences elsewhere on the menu from the ‘Snacks’ and ‘Star Dishes’ section.

From the ‘Tiny’ section, we order the notso-tiny raw salmon (Dhs45), a beautifully presented plate of raw salmon, citrusy Shiso soy and crispy black rice. It arrives shortly

R

96_What’s On_11.2019

before the chicken and beef gyozas (Dhs42 each). The beef was our favourite; four pieces of deliciously thin skinned gyozas delicately pan fried and topped with a sliver of pink beef.

‘Star Dishes’ is definitely the right section for the Sanchoku Wagyu Sando (Dhs145), which is essentially the tastiest sandwich we’ve eaten this year. Already an Instagram star in its own right, cuts of perfectly pink Wagyu are sandwiched between a punchy tonkatsu sauce and two slices of toast.

From the ‘Kushi’ (skewer) section, served each with two skewers, the surprise hit is the crispy chicken wings (Dhs44), that pull effortlessly off the skewers, simply served with the option to add shichimi and salt. We also devour the angus beef and creamy truffle mayo (Dhs62) in record time. The crispy baby squid kushi katsu (Dhs42) is another

brilliant Reif twist on a classic dish, drizzled with a yuzu kosho mayo that perfectly complements the crunch of the crispy squid.

Desserts are listed on a board above the kitchen, and while they all look appealing, the molten cake (Dhs38) is a dish we know Reif does deliciously well – and this one certainly doesn’t disappoint. Just warm, it’s gooey in the middle, with a salty sweet peanut butter oozing from the centre.

By the time we leave, the row of chairs lined up at the front of the restaurant are all taken by folks patiently waiting for a coveted seat inside. Clearly, we’re not the only ones who know this is food worth queuing for. a Dar Wasl Mall, Jumeirah, Sat to Wed noon to 11pm, Thur and Fri noon to midnight. Tel: (04) 3450761. reifkushiyaki.com RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� A Atmosphere ������������������������������������������������ Price ���������������������������������������������������������

3BK

On Cloud Nine or left high and dry at the Burj Khalifa’s newest restaurant? ou’d be remiss not to have high expectations when dining at Burj Khalifa. After all it’s going to be compared to topnotch restaurants such as At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant, and Armani/hashi, where sushi is an accomplished art form.

3BK – named after its location on the third level of the Burj Khalifa – is a subtly-grand, independently-managed restaurant that opened last month.

The website promised a ‘multi-sensory dining experience’ – not a hugely original concept – but with an ‘outdoor terrace’ and ‘unparalleled views of Dubai Fountains’, it’s one that we’re excited to try.

We were struck by the simplicity of the dishes on the menu, which had none of the over-the-top fanciness that you might anticipate (although they were printed on some very posh paper).

Y

Starters ran the international gamut from ceviche to skewers, spider rolls to scallops. We played it safe with a guacamole (Dhs42) that’s creamy with a hint of a lime, and the crispy prawn tacos (Dhs40) served with tiger prawns and yuzu mayonnaise. Meanwhile the chicken skewers (Dhs45) were presented beautifully and were pleasantly tender, although we’d have enjoyed a dipping sauce as an accompaniment.

Next came the chef ’s surprise of scallop stones (Dhs120) – arguably 3BK’s most ‘multi-sensory’ dish. The chilled scallops were coated in Greek yoghurt and covered in squid ink to make them resemble pebbles. They were then placed in a bowl with real pebbles and served with whispering dry ice, used to create the sounds of crashing waves. Fun, if a little gimmicky.

The mains section is a little easier to decipher with a couple of vegetarian options including roasted cauliflower (Dhs75), several steak options (from Dhs320), fish (from Dhs175), risotto (Dhs89) and a fried whole sea bass (Dhs295). We opted for the seabass, a melt-in-the mouth dish served with fried green plantain and salsa roja.

Equally delicious was the miso marinated black cod (Dhs175). Be sure to order a side of

truffle fries (Dhs40), which are an excellent accompaniment and a generous helping.

The star of the show for us was the chefrecommended vanilla cheesecake (Dhs60), which was light and fluffy and jazzed up with passionfruit seeds, mango sorbet and a sprinkle of biscuity goodness.

The large outdoor terrace is opening in November, and with a dedicated alfresco bar where you can drink, dine and enjoy shisha, we’ve no doubt a night at 3BK will meet those high expectations of yours. a Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, Sat to Wed 6pm to 1.30am, Thur and Fri 6pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 8886333. @3bkdubai

RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� B Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

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C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

KAYTO

Japan meets Peru at Jumeirah Al Naseem, but does it work? f you tried – and loved – the food at chic poolside restaurant in Jumeirah Al Naseem’s Summersalt, then you’ll be pleased to discover that its chef Cristian Goya has moved the concept upstairs to the hotel’s terrace. Previously occupied by shisha spot Ambar, Kayto is a Japanese/Peruvian concept, which will be open until May 2020. There are plans for a refurb, but we’re hoping they’ll keep the gorgeous blush pink sofas and chairs that give the room its chic, fun aesthetic.

The restaurant looks out directly onto the Burj Al Arab, and it’s impossible not to spend the evening staring at its twinkling lights. If you can cast your eye away to the menu, you’ll find a blend of Japanese and Peruvian dishes, known as ‘Nikkei’ when combined.

There’s an extensive a la carte list, or you can opt for the tasting menu, which offers two starters, a main, a side and dessert for Dhs410.

We start our Nikkei odyssey with four rectangles of crunch-on-the-outside, softin-the-middle crispy rice, topped with spicy tuna tartare (Dhs70). The balance is perfect, with a kick courtesy of a tiny chilli slice on top. Closely followed is the seabass ceviche (Dhs72), which offers large chunks of juicy fish, complimented by super-

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sweet sweet potato tempura, thinly sliced red onion and uncooked but soft Peruvian corn kernels.

Upon recommendation we try the salmon tataki (Dhs65), and it doesn’t disappoint. The sweet and sour miso karachi sauce is incredibly moreish, although you can have too much of a good thing, so go easy when you dip your salmon slices. We try the saikyo miso black cod (Dhs185) which is fine, but could have been marinated for longer to create a deeper flavour. In contrast, the wagyu beef tataki (Dhs220) is tastier, far better seasoned and the accompanied variety of Japanese mushrooms make it a solid dish.

The service was hit and miss. As the restaurant started to fill, we, along with a handful of other tables, were forgotten. After several reminders, our cheesecake brûlée (Dhs45) finally arrived but by then we just wanted to leave. A shame, because it was a nice dessert with a crunchy blowtorched top and sharp mandarin sorbet. While teething problems are to be expected in a new restaurant, as a Jumeirah outlet, expectations will be high from the get-go, so Kayto will need to up its efficiency fast. a Jumeirah Al Naseem, daily 12.30pm to 3pm and 5pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 4323232. jumeirah.com RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� B Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

Three new restaurants at The Westin Mina Seyahi It’s been a busy summer for the team at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort. They’ve decided to shake things up with not one but three new restaurant offerings. Inside you’ll now find Turkish steakhouse Baba (@babagrilldxb), all-day buffet style dining at Mina’s Kitchen (facebook.com/minaskitchendubai) and a relaxed pan-Asian restaurant Sui Mai ( facebook.com/ suimuidubai).

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MEET THE CHEF

MASSIMO BOTTURA The chef behind the three Michelin star Osteria Francescana and Dubai’s Torno Subito shares his no-waste beliefs Food in Italy is religion, it’s in our DNA. All of the guys in the Torno Subito kitchen who worked in the Osteria restaurant know exactly how we do things, how we prepare and how we act.

We have a no waste attitude at Torno Subito. It comes from my Grandmother. She never let me leave the table if I didn’t finish my plate.

Actually I don’t call it waste.

I call it surplus and there’s so much surplus food that we decided to act.

Food for Soul is something I’m working on with Google.

Together with some of the most influential chefs in the world, we’re building a collection of recipes using surplus food, and these recipes will be free for everyone. You’ll be able to see what you can do with potato peels, breadcrumbs, over-ripe tomatoes, bruised zucchini and brown bananas to reduce food waste.

I was recently shooting a video for a new Netflix series coming out in 2020. It’s all about teaching kids how to eat healthy food and how not to waste food.

With all my travelling over the world, I have a lot of faith in the younger generation. They’re a lot better than I was at their age. a W Dubai – The Palm, daily noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 2455555. marriott.com

BRUNCH MONTH O F

Roberto’s Dubai

T H E

Is this Italian institution still worth a visit seven years after opening?

Before we’ve even arrived at Roberto’s brand-new Friday brunch, we’re fans.

Why? Well, for most brunches, you need to arrive promptly between noon and 1pm to maximise your brunching time, but for Roberto’s, it’s a leisurely 3pm arrival time.

We had to resist a seat on the terrace, with its beautiful Burj Khalifa views, as it was a touch too humid on our visit.

By mid-November, it would be a perfect alfresco spot.

Guests enjoy a selection of starters to share, then pick an a la carte main from a choice of three meat, three seafood and three vegetarian options, with a sweet treat from the pastry chef finishing things off.

The starters are very impressive; five sharing antipasti arrive in succession, with heaped bowls of crunchy fried calamari and perfectly plated burrata with ripe vine tomatoes. The Pizza Roberto’s is a signature: a crispy base with beef carpaccio, topped with truffle shavings and a handful of rocket, while a lighter option comes in the form of a baby lettuce salad with mandarin slices, pine nuts and drizzled with honey mustard dressing.

The second course includes two pasta dishes; a porcini mushroom risotto and tortelli arabbiata with an excellent kick thanks to a sprinkling of chilli. There’s more than enough to go around, and a welcome interlude between starters and mains.

For mains we opt for the breaded goat’s cheese, but enviably eye-up the Bistecca, a charcoal grilled angus rib eye with stuffed bell peppers. The menu is more adventurous than we expected, and we welcomed the new additions that have leaned away from Roberto’s traditional Italian menu to suit a more global audience.

A special mention should be given to the friendly waiter who self-titles himself ‘Pepper Bae’ (a nod to the infamous Salt Bae), who brings around the largest pepper grinder we’ve ever seen to finish guests’ dishes as requested.

Food quality isn’t compromised despite being served for brunch, drinks are extensive and for a four-hour package, overall, we leave impressed – and very full. a Roberto’s, Gate Village 1, DIFC, Dubai, Fri 3pm to 7pm, Dhs315 with soft drinks, Dhs465 with house drinks. Tel: (04) 3860066. robertos.ae 11.2019_What’s On_101

MEET THE BARTENDER

ANDRII BUKOVELO Head Bartender at Ketch Up Most people think bartending is just about pouring and serving drinks, but I like the history and culture behind the drinks. I like to create new concoctions for my guests in the same way a chef creates new recipes.

I’m passionate about creativity and seeing people enjoy my work.

It’s a great feeling when someone tells me they love the drink I made.

I’d most love to serve my favourite actor, Will Smith. I’d make him a classic vodka martini, which is his favourite drink in the movie Focus.

The vibe at Ketch Up is pretty unique because Paul Bishop, the restaurant’s designer, creates not just interiors but a lifestyle. The black and gold interiors feel chic and Instagrammable. In Ketch Up, the atmosphere makes you relax and the music will make you want to dance.

I don’t think any drinks are overrated, but a bullfrog doesn’t have the same history as a martini.

You can see there are some trends forming as everyone tries to be as creative as possible, but I think it’s best to keep it simple.

I used to work at Coya and I love their drinks menu. It’s my favourite place to chill out after work as I know how much work the team puts into creating their drinks. a Bluewaters, Sat to Tue 10am to midnight, Wed to Fri 10am to 1am.

Tel: (050) 7507424. facebook.com/ ketchupdxb

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BAR MONTH O F

Antika Bar

T H E

Monaco’s Sass Café is out and Beirut’s famous watering hole is in. Can it go the distance?

Al Fattan Currency House in DIFC has seen its fair share of closures. While Sass Café held it together for an impressive five years, others were not so lucky. R Trader, Jekyll & Hyde, Beefbar and Crazy Fish each lasted little more than a year.

So, it’s with some trepidation that we head to Antika Bar, a famed export from Beirut now calling Al Fattan home.

It has the same high ceilings and splitlevel arrangement as its predecessor Sass Café, but that’s about it when it comes to similarities. A floor to ceiling cabinet filled with kitsch antiques lines the back wall; the bar is kitted out to look like the front of a retro Lebanese theatre; plush furnishings add vibrancy; while neon lights and carousel horses add character. It’s bright and dramatic and ticks all the boxes for a restaurant that’s been designed to be photographed.

Signature cocktails at Antika will set you back anywhere between Dhs65 and Dhs90, with Levantine- themed names such as Arabian Nights (infused with banana, orange blossom, pistachio and tonic) and Vine Devine (a blend of Blanco Vermouth, pickled vine leaves, white grapes, lemon and sugar).

Meanwhile, the Levantine food menu is split between mezze, salads, mains and desserts. Kick off with the bright pink beetroot feta foam (Dhs45) from the mezze

section. Soft and creamy feta whipped with beetroot is light and tasty, drizzled with truffle oil and green salsa. The shawarma chicken roll with tzatziki (Dhs60) is good for sharing and while the chicken is tender, it’s nothing out of the ordinary. A keshek with black truffle (Dhs55) is also as expected, a creamy consistency that’s simply presented, well-seasoned and complimented by generous shavings of black truffle.

The crunchy fattoush with roasted beetroot (Dhs50) is a nice salad of baby gem, tomato and vinegar, that serves well as a lighter bar food option. The main courses have a few more international options including a decent beef slider (Dhs90) and grilled chicken (Dhs70).

Finishing things on a sweet note, order the Ashta ice cream (Dhs60), a traditional Arabic dessert topped with cotton candy and pistachio for added crunch.

This is fuss free but thoughtful Levantine cuisine that’s been well designed to accompany an evening of drinks and entertainment.

It’s worth noting that the entertainment doesn’t kick in until after 11pm, but Antika Bar has been designed as a late-night destination, and serves its purpose well. a Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC, daily 5pm to late. Tel: (050) 7359177. facebook. com/AntikaBarDubai

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

AL MEYLAS

A new raw/vegan menu at Four Seasons Abu Dhabi’s popular living room he smart chefs at Abu Dhabi’s five-star hotels are doing everything they can to compete with smaller bistros and cafes on the plant-based trend. But so far none of them have gone that extra step to raw food.

Even among cafes in Abu Dhabi, short of ordering a salad, properly prepared raw food is a rarity. Enter Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi’s forward-thinking executive sous chef Christian Buenrostro, the mind behind the new raw vegan menu at lobby lounge Al Meylas.

It’s encouraging to see raw, plantbased food feature prominently in a gathering place so significant some call it ‘the living room of Abu Dhabi’. It’s even more gratifying to dig into Buenrostro’s thoughtful dishes.

According to the kitchen rules of raw cooking, food is heated or “cooked” at temperatures not greater than 47 °C. This is done to preserve nutrients and enzymes, diminish the energy used for cooking and keep food in its most natural form.

For this reason, the diet is based on fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and sprouted or soaked grains and legumes.

Whether you buy into their beliefs or not, it’s hard to argue with the health and vitality raw foodists exuds, or just how good food can taste when it is painstakingly prepared like this.

There are nine innovative items on the Al Meylas menu, including starters, mains and dessert. Make sure to order the raw kale Caesar salad (Dhs90), which beats almost all of the regular Caesar salads in the city for flavour. Corn croutons add crunch, as does the heirloom carrot chip.

Buenrostro is from Mexico and has spent a considerable amount of his career in Latin America, which explains a focus on the region here. The raw vegan baby gem nachos (Dhs65) are a hearty dish, with a meaty filling made of sunflower

NEW VEGAN MENU

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seeds. The mixed field mushroom ceviche (Dhs75) is another winner, gently spiced with a touch of jalapeno, and cured in tomato, onion and coriander.

Buenrostro’s wife is Asian, which accounts for the addition of pad Thai (Dhs75).

His raw version is a spicy, crunchy mix of ribboned zucchini, carrot, red cabbage, bean sprouts, spring onions and cashews. The highlight of the menu, however, is the raw vegan pizza (Dhs90), served on a dehydrated seed-based crust topped with macadamia spread and sundried and heirloom tomatoes bursting with freshness, topped with delicate sprigs of rocca.

If you are a fan of processed and fast food, this Al Meylas menu may be a bridge

too healthy. Eating this kind of whole, fresh fare takes a little getting used to, so you might want to ease into it.

But knowing how much care and effort goes into making raw food – the dehydrating, the soaking, the blending and the waiting – only makes a meander into a menu this delightful that much more delicious. a Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi. Raw vegan menu served daily at lunch and dinner. Tel: (02) 333 2222. fourseasons.com RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� A Atmosphere ��������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

Greek. Chic. Unique.

Treat yourself to an exquisite contemporary take on Greek cuisine. Now Nestled in the Heart of the Capital

For more information

02 498 8888

restaurant.saadiyat@stregis.com

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi |

+971 50 621 3583

@maziabudhabi | maziabudhabi.com

UP & BELOW: SILENT PARTY

Wear LED headphones, choose your music from the DJs spinning live, and dance until the wee hours on the rooftop of Up & Below, all the while overlooking the city – without making a sound.

November 15 a Courtyard by Marriott World Trade Center, Abu Dhabi, Fri 11pm to 3am, Dhs90. Tel: (02) 6982222. facebook.com/rooftoprhythmsAD C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

MAZI

Renowned Notting Hill Greek restaurant moves into St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi reek cuisine is having a moment in the UAE, particularly in Dubai. In just one year, we saw several tavernas open including Ammos, Gaia, Opa and Avli by tashas. It was a quieter resurgence in the capital, until Mazi opened in early October.

The duo behind the brand and menu is husband and wife Adrien Carré and Christina Mouratoglou, who opened their first critically-acclaimed restaurant of the same name in London in 2012, which continues to be a popular celebrity haunt.

Can their new branch in Abu Dhabi prove to be as successful as the original? lime, watermelon, and sparkling water, Well, you can tell almost everything enjoy.’ It all adds to a wonderful welcome. you need to know about this Flavours are very interesting, and upmarket Greek spot as presentation is progressive – GM Marwan Fadel with Mazi founders soon as you walk in note that mezze is served in to the ground level little jars – the warm grilled restaurant. First, you’ll aubergine with soy and be greeted by a huge thyme honey (Dhs35) is smile. Then taken to a particular highlight. a table either outside Tear the crusty bread on their pretty terrace and get dipping. Other or inside a huge bright innovative creations blue room – the décor include a unique feta of Greek towns echoed by tempura (Dhs50) served strategically placed elements with lemon marmalade and a including a traditional fishing boat at the like-it-or-loathe-it caper meringue, and entrance and door handles made of olive there’s a distinctive moussaka of potato branches. You’ll be presented with a shot dauphinoise mixed with piquant shitake glass of salmon coloured liquid, and they’ll mushrooms. Make no mistake, this is say ‘welcome, in here we have mastika, Greek food with a very big twist indeed.

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a St

Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi, 4pm to midnight weekdays, noon to midnight weekends. Tel: (02) 4988888. stregissaadiyatisland.com

RATING Food �������������������������������������������������������������� B+ Atmosphere ������������������������������������������������ Price ���������������������������������������������������������

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

THE GRILL

A thoughtful new menu launches at The Grill f you are of the opinion that no city can have too many steakhouses, then the changes happening over at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi will please you.

The Grill has fully assumed the title of steakhouse – a designation its guests long assigned it – and if you still weren’t sure, a large cow statue at the entrance will erase any traces of doubt.

There is a new chef, Sudhanshu Nirmal, who comes via Aloft Al Ain, and lots of new menu items, as well as reimagining some old favourites.

We were impressed with the 300g ribeye (Dhs155). The cut had more marbling than grass fed beef usually offers, while retaining that meaty texture. We also ordered the USDA ladies cut tenderloin – a still-generous, but scaled-down 170g offering. That steak was gorgeous: tender and full of delicate, juicy ribbons of rich fat. Nirmal has also added new cuts of trendy flank and hangar steak from

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Australia to the menu. Other nice touches include a single cooked sprig of broccolini, which proves a beautiful and zero-waste garnish for each steak. And we can’t forget the sauces: the black pepper jam and the bearnaise were both flawless.

The sides menu has been completely revamped as well, and our order of polenta chips (Dhs25) was a home run, with a thick crispy exterior and creamy, grainy goodness inside.

We didn’t skip the starters, accepting Nirmal’s recommendation for the chopped salad (Dhs69) with pleasure. This dish is a standout in the capital in every way and lives up to its billing: perfectly portioned bites of broccoli and avocado mix with

the piquancy of Bruxton blue cheese, the sweetness of Granny Smith apple and carmelised pecan, and bitterness of mesclun, topped with an introverted sherry vinaigrette.

For dessert, the elegant lemon tart (Dh45) is Nirmal’s take on a dish created

by Italy’s star chef Massimo Bottura, “Oops! I dropped the lemon tart”, only much tidier.

However, we found the crumbled, deconstructed crust a little too sweet and weren’t fans of the thick texture of the mousse lemon curd inside.

The 12-hour braised spiced pineapple (Dh45) was much better: the pineapple carpaccio featured a spot-on mix of clove, all spice, saffron, szechuan pepper and pink peppercorn, star anise and cinnamon.

That would be good all on its own, but instead it was topped by a chocolate egg containing a rich, creamy coconut sorbet.

A fun way to end an enjoyable meal. a Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi.

Daily 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (02) 2014131. marriottalforsanlife.com RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� B Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

C O N S U M E

EAT // NEWS

Roots & Shoots Café 302 lays out a top vegan buffet Café 302 in Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana has long been a welcome haven for the capital’s vegans with a tasty a la carte menu, but they are now pulling out all the plantbased stops on Thursday nights. As part of Roots & Shoots Night, the evening offers an all-you-can-eat buffet bursting with 100 per cent nourishing goodness. From salads to appetisers, through mains and desserts, wind down from another busy week the healthy way. a Café 302, Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana, Abu Dhabi. Thur 6pm to 10pm. Dh89. Tel: (02) 6106666. rotana.com/almahaarjaanbyrotana

La Dolce Vita

Verso’s Saturday ‘Famaglia’ brunch is back

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he colourful Italian eatery Verso is devoting Saturdays to ‘Famiglia’ time, whether it’s the real deal or friends who feel like family. The Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl location offers a fresh, wholesome brunch served from live stations and includes homely favourites such as eggplant parmigiana, lamb shank ragout on

creamy polenta and of course, plenty of pizza.

Homemade gelato is just one of the draws at the dessert counter. a Verso Restaurant, Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl, Abu Dhabi. Sat noon to 4 pm. From Dhs290 to Dhs440 per person. 50 per cent off for children under 12; under 6 are free. Tel: (02) 5101234. verso.ae

Street food Tuesdays at Khayal Take a trip around the world – with your palate at least – on Tuesdays at the Marriott Hotel Al Forsan. That’s when Khayal restaurant offers authentic street food flavours from a range of quirky food trucks and live cooking stations. There’s entertainment too: a cyclist doing tricks, Asian-inspired boats and more. a Khayal Restaurant, Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi. Tue 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Dhs220 per person. Dhs95 for children six to 12. Tel: (02) 2014000. marriottalforsanlife.com

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BRUNCH MONTH O F

T H E

Coya It’s a Latin fiesta at this 2018 What’s On Award winner…

Last year, Coya took home our Restaurant of the Year award, and it’s continued to impress us ever since. Now, the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, The Galleria location has relaunched its brunch and, during a recent visit, it’s clear they are pulling out all the stops.

The restaurant is gorgeous, of course: cool art, wood floors, deep red velvet drapes and multi-coloured tiles everywhere, making it one of the most pleasant places to eat in the capital.

This is a half-half brunch, our favourite kind, because it offers the ability to get up and peruse the buffet, but also cuts down on food waste with tableside delivery of starters, a main course and dessert.

The tone was set with a welcome slider alongside soft Wagyu ribs and manchego cheese, delivering just a hint of a kick. The entire ceviche menu is available at the cold bar, individually portioned and beautifully presented. The assorted dishes of tuna tiradito, red snapper and yellowtail sit at one end of a table that includes assorted maki and the menu’s salads, including Coya’s famed kale y manchego.

Upon arrival, every table had already been laid with a large serving of guacamole, accompanied by corn tortillas to snack on.

Our starters were to die for, but we particularly liked the crispy balls of Chilean sea bass.

We also dug into sea bass risotto with zest and it was perfectly cooked and delicately seasoned with just the right amount of char.

We tried our best but still had to leave half of our tender beef rib portion sitting atop a rich gravy.

Still we managed to find room for the crunchy orange and lime churros. Dunked in milk chocolate and dulce de leche, they were the perfect accompaniment to our coffees. And if that’s not enough for your sweet tooth, then be sure not to miss the chicamusu with hidden berries.

Coya chefs promise they’ll add new things weekly, so those who’d like to be regular customers won’t get bored. With food this good, we don’t think that’s possible. a Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, The Galleria. Fri 12.30pm to 4pm. Dhs238 with soft drinks, Dhs498 with house drinks.

Tel: (02) 3067000. coyarestaurant.com

SPORT COMES TO SAADIYAT Watch a match on 11 big screens at Offside

Offside, the new sports lounge at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, gives guests and the island’s sports fans a place to watch their favourite game and snack on five-star bar food. A giant projector is among 11 screens and they will be showing it all: the Grand Prix, tennis, rugby, golf and football. As for eats, proper fish ‘n’ chips, Buffalo wings, beef or lamb ribs, oxtail pie and a Burger of the Month round out the menu. a Offside, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 8114444. jumeirah.com 110_What’s On_11.2019

C O N S U M E

DRINK // NEWS

Sports time Special game deals at Southern Sun Blu Sky in the Southern Sun Abu Dhabi provides your perfect game package whether it’s the Premier League or Champions League. Enjoy three hours of selected unlimited house beverages plus a sharing platter of food for just Dhs169 per person, and get it anytime from opening through to closing on match days. a Blu Sky, Southern Sun Abu Dhabi.

Match days. Dhs169. Tel: (02) 8184888 tsogosun.com

Happy haven

Butcher & Still knows how to do post-work chill

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ure Butcher & Still is a top destination for a major meal out, but it also provides a buzzing atmosphere for something a little earlier and lighter: Happy hour. Two-for-one offers are on every day of the week at this Four Seasons interpretation of a 1920s Chicago steakhouse. a Butcher & Still, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi. Daily, 4pm to 7pm. Tel: (02) 3332222. fourseasons.com

A new sundowner spot to try Ease into night at The Lounge on Saadiyat Island Do sundowners right at The Lounge, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort. Indulge in unlimited bites and a selected cocktail for just Dhs85 every day from 5pm to 8pm, as you overlook stunning views from the terrace across the Arabian Gulf. Additional cocktails from the Character Selection menu are just Dhs20 each. a The Lounge, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. Daily 5pm to 8pm. Dhs85.

Tel: (02) 8114342. jumeirah.com

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KNOCK-KNOCK. WHO’S THERE? K-SPA The K-Spa that’s new!!?? It’s a cocoon of Korean cool…

A hip hybrid hangout where sheet masks rule. Yep, a salon-spa with Seoul.

Feel the pressure. The Korean massage acupressure.

Multi-mask. And Multi-task.

Select a K-Beauty haul from our retail wall!

Get your game-on-glow like a K-Beauty pro in private beauty pods for women and separate male grooming capsules.

K-Spa open daily from 10 am to 9 pm.

MOVENPICK HOTEL & APARTMENTS BUR DUBAI, 19TH STREET, OUD METHA, DUBAI, UAE // +971 (4) 3366000 // KSPADUBAI.COM

NOVEMBER

ART // THEATRE // FILM // MUSIC

Defining a generation Dubai Opera celebrates two iconic clubs this month

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usic lovers are in for a double treat this November as Dubai Opera welcomes two iconic UK club nights: Haçienda Classical, which returns to Dubai Opera on 29 November after two hugely successful shows in 2018, and Ronnie Scott’s 60th Anniversary Concert, the legendary London jazz institution coming to Dubai Opera on 22 November. Haçienda Classical sees the famous club’s original DJ, Graeme Park, perform seminal house and club classics on an epic scale with a full live orchestra, the Manchester

Camerata and special guests. The Haçienda nightclub was a renowned venue in Manchester, UK and now original co-founder Graeme Park, offers an unforgettable show, taking smashhits such as Pacific State, Voodoo Ray, Ride on Time and You’ve Got The Love and giving them a classical make-over whilst ensuring they retain all their epic character. Meanwhile, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, located in the heart of Soho, has been hosting ground-breaking concerts since its creation in 1959 and has helped launch the careers of dozens of world-famous musical acts. As it celebrates its 60th anniversary, join

the club’s sensational house band The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars and embark on a journey through the last 60 years of jazz music. Hear incredible music performed by the UK’s finest jazz musicians with a line-up that includes Emma Smith, Pete Long, Sam Burgess, Freddie Gavita, and Ross Stanley.

November 22 a Ronnie Scott’s 60th Anniversary Concert at Dubai Opera, Dhs175, 9pm.

Tel: (04) 4408888. dubaiopera.com November 29 a Haçienda Classical at Dubai Opera, Dhs250, 9pm. Tel: (04) 4408888. dubaiopera.com 11.2019_What’s On_113

THE AGENDA Our pick of the top art-related events this month

/EXHIBITION/

Community and Critique Showcasing the works of 15 emerging artists from the Salama bint Hamdan Emerging Artists Fellowship programme, this exhibition is a taste of where contemporary art is right now in the young generation. These include notions of tradition, 114_What’s On_11.2019

For more cultural plans happening in the UAE, visit whatson.ae

insomnia, and loneliness, manifested in a variety of mediums including portraits, installations, and performance art.

Until November 22 a Warehouse 421. Mina Zayed, Street Samrayr, Abu Dhabi.

Tues to Sun, 10am to 8pm. Tel: (02) 6768803. warehouse421.com

CULTURE /PERFORMANCE/

Sinatra Now Written and performed by Richard Shelton, this oneman theatre production, which was a sell-out run at the 2018 and 2019 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, is heading to Dubai. In it, Shelton performs as Frank Sinatra with some of his classic songs interspersed throughout proceedings.

November 5 a Warehouse Four, 4b Street, Al Quoz, Dubai. 8pm.

Dhs150. Taxi: Exit 42 Sh Zayed Rd. Tel: (04) 3412596. warehousefour.com /WORKSHOP/

Painting Fujairah’s Wild Mountains This outdoor painting workshop led by Matthew Ryder is focused on capturing the light, atmosphere and texture of the stunning Hajar mountains that surround Fujairah.

Participants are asked to bring their own materials.

November 15 and 16 a Meeting in Dubai to convoy to hotel in Fujairah. Spaces limited. RSVP: ryderscanvas @gmail.com Tel: (050) 7581445. /SCREENING/

A Cure for Wellness New psychological thriller A Cure for Wellness follows the story of a young executive who is sent to retrieve his company’s CEO from a wellness centre at a remote location in the Swiss Alps. But the miraculous treatments are not what they seem.

November 3 a Cinema Akil, Alserkal Avenue, Street 8, Al Quoz, Dubai. 8pm. Tel: (058) 5246362. cinemaakil.com /EVENT/

Cubist Electro Night Party under the stars at the Louvre Abu Dhabi at the Cubist Electro Night. Presenting live DJ sets from the legendary alter ego of DJ Amon Tobin, Two Fingers, alongside with Molecule, a French pioneer in sound innovation, and emblematic Boogie Box DJs, Hassan Alwan and Tristan Girault playing over cubism-inspired visuals lighting the facades and the iconic dome of the museum.

November 21 a Auditorium Plaza. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. 10pm to 2pm. Dhs150. Over 21+. Tel: (600) 565566. louvreabudhabi.aeg

/EXHIBITION/

Sustainable Art A joint exhibition from two Dubai-based artists Beena Samuel and Diyali Bhalla presents a variety of artworks including paintings and three-dimensional installation made from upcycled material.

From November 16 a Dubai International Art Centre. Villa No. 27, Street 75b, Jumeirah 1, Dubai. Sun to Weds, 9am to 5pm. Thurs 9am to 4pm. Fri closed. Tel: (04) 3444398. artdubai.com 11.2019_What’s On_115

CULTURE

Designs in Dubai Get a glimpse at local and international works as Dubai Design Week returns to d3

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he city’s design district comes alive this month for the annual Dubai Design Week, which turns the entire area into a haven of creativity. Staged in partnership with Dubai Design District (d3) and supported by Dubai Culture & Arts, Dubai Design Week is a citywide celebration of talent for the whole region.

From interactive installations, to some of the coolest new inventions, exhibitions, workshops and limitededition design pieces, this event covers the whole gamut of design and it’s also a really fun day out for the family…

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01. ART INSTALLATION: Barjeel This installation designed by Istanbulbased MAS Architecture Studio is made to draw attention to responsible design. It is a six-metre tall wind tower made from layers of reclaimed cardboard, forming a windcatcher that funnels cool air from above to the area below.

02. EXHIBITION: Kabul Old City –

A Visual Journey This multimedia exhibition is dedicated to the ancient heart of the city of Kabul: the district of Murad Khani. Compiled

by Turquoise Mountain, an NGO who work primarily in Afghanistan, the exhibition highlights large-scale development plans across the heritage area. On display are Afghan carpets, pottery, crafts and a woodwork lounge area as well as digital visualisations of what Murad Khani once looked like in its prime.

03. GLOBAL GRAD SHOW A not-for-profit initiative, this exhibition showcases graduate projects covering the fields of design, science, technology and engineering from over 116_What’s On_11.2019

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100 universities offering solutions to tackle today’s challenges. Curated

by Eleanor Watson, the inventions address topics such as health, social care, disabilities, biodiversity, water pollution, farming and sustainable cities. It is the world’s largest gathering prototypes of social impact design.

04. ABWAB Abwab, meaning doors in Arabic, is a showcase of commissioned work from geographical pavilions. This year, designers from India, the Eastern Provinces of Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon have worked to recreate a classroom. Under the theme ‘ways of

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learning’, their challenge is to explore the way information is shared and taught in their respective cultures, by design.

05. MAKING SPACE A five-day programme of workshops and drop-in exploration activities conducted by a range of UAE-based, regional and international designers to develop the skills of professionals and budding designers of all ages.

06. DOWNTOWN DESIGN This is one of the biggest design fairs in the region. With over 180 international and regional brands participating,

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A Kuwait pavilion at Dubai Design Week B Maker’s and Merchant’s Market C Saudi Arabia pavilion at Dubai Design Week D The Breath of Light installation at Downtown Design 2018 E Sharjah based product designer Jawaher Alkhayyal launches her first collection at Downtown Design F A visitor at Dubai Design Week

Q&A MEET THE TEAM

Rawan Kashkoush Head of programming at Dubai Design Week

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buyers and enthusiasts converge to witness their latest creations.

Also part of the fair is Downtown Editions, a showcase of products by emerging designers. Designer Ghassan Salameh is the guest curator for this year’s edition of Dubai Design Week.

He has his own design studio practice in Beirut, which focuses on lighting design products and has exhibited around the work. Ghassan believes in using design as an agent of positive change and he curated Beirut Design Week 2018 focusing on the role of design in making the city more liveable and socially just.

Q: What is your personal highlight of DDW2019?

I love the Global Grad Show especially as it has expanded to two buildings this year. I’m also pleased with the Dubai Culture Creative Lab, a new programme with drop-in stations for design and craft-centered workshops.

Q: How is design most often misunderstood?

Most of the objects around us are born as solutions to a problem, though designers are often perceived as beautifiers, their brains are set to ‘solve’ and are constantly pulling together existing resources to keep us all moving forward. We need designers now more than ever to combat the challenges our world faces.

Q: Any advice to firsttime visitors?

Download the app and plan your visit. Aim to visit on the weekend where the Maker’s and Merchant’s Market turns the outdoor area into a wonderful pedestrian festival.

November 11 to 16 a Dubai Design District (d3), Mon to Fri 10am to 10pm, Sat 10am to 5pm. dubaidesignweek.ae

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CULTURE

Art of the matter

The capital comes alive with art as Abu Dhabi Art returns

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he annual art fair in Abu Dhabi is more than a traditional trade fair, it presents many events and initiatives to engage the public. This year, it is displaying work from 40 leading and emerging galleries as well as featuring a curatorially driven programme including art installations and exhibitions, talks and performances taking place in different locations. Here are our highlights...

ART

Artist Commissions See contemporary artists create works in historic sites in Al Ain. Artists participating are Leandro Erlich and Oliber Beer.

Emerging Artists This annual initiative gives three emerging UAE artists a platform to realise ambitious art projects. Their works will be shown at Manarat Al Saadiyat.

Talks Programme A series of stimulating

cultural talks and book launches featuring leading figures in the art world.

The Journey with eL Seed Check out the 81 Designs booth, which features seven murals, inspired from a poem by Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish created

by Dubai-based artist eL

Seed. The mural-designs have been handstitched on canvases by refugee women in the traditional Palestinian embroidery, Tatreez.

November 20 to 23 a Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi. Wed 6pm to 9pm. Thur to Sat 2pm to 9pm, Dhs55 for a three-day pass. abudhabiart.ae

Culture in the capital A month of exciting events at the Cultural Foundation Ever since its inauguration in September, the Cultural Foundation has brought us a stunning variation of performances, music shows, poetry evenings and art exhibitions and the programme keeps on improving.

For November, don’t miss the play about problems of young people in Arab societies. Talaya Al-Layl 118_What’s On_11.2019

presents several ideas to the audience but its main theme is a father’s dominance over his children. There is also a performance by 47SOUL, an electro Arabic dabke band from Amman.

On the bill for the end of the month, Plaza Francia Orchestra, a trio of

What they say...

“The fair is now more embedded in the community and the art eco-system than ever before, we’ve matured without becoming boring or static and our audience has flourished” Dyala Nusseibeh, Fair Director

musicians headed by vocalist Catherine Ringer, will sing compositions taking inspiration from the Argentinian tango to create new tracks, which they will debut at the Cultural Foundation.

Throughout November a Cultural Foundation, Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi. Sat to Thur 10am to 8pm. Fri 1 noon to 10pm. Tel: (02) 657 6348. culturalfoundation.ae

CULTURE

A gallery great turns 40 From its waterside Creek spot, The Majlis Gallery owner Alison Collins shares her memories from the last four decades Can you summarise the changes you have witnessed in the Dubai art scene over the years?

Obviously, the biggest thing to hit absolutely every aspect of life almost worldwide has been the Internet. It’s made communication with artists, suppliers and clients so much quicker but maybe at the expense of one thing: interaction. When I did my first show in 1979, The Majlis Gallery was the only fine art gallery in the UAE. There was an ‘art scene’ but very much at grass roots level.

What has been the gallery’s greatest achievement?

Surviving! As well as sticking to our original aim of providing a meeting place for artists and art lovers in our unique setting. That and playing a significant role in the restoration of the wonderful old windtower houses that are so much part of Dubai’s history.

A word to someone looking to discover artists from this region – how should they begin to get a feel of UAE art?

Go to the many opening nights that are held regularly in the many venues all over the city. Talk to gallery owners,

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read the various publications but above all, trust your instincts. If you like a piece and can just about afford it you will never regret buying it, you will regret more what you don’t buy.

Describe the identity of The Majlis Gallery. What makes it stand out?

The Majlis Gallery is as vibrant today as it was 40 years ago fuelled by the dedication and passion of so many artists who have made it ‘their gallery’.

Our mission is to make everyone who walks through our door feel welcome and free to enjoy the art and artefacts that we show. If they fall in love with a piece, we are delighted. We are not a highbrow gallery, we just have some fabulous art. a The Majlis Gallery, Al Musalla Roundabout, Al Fahidi Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai. Sat to Thur 10am to 6pm.

Tel: (04) 3536233. themajlisgallery.com

New media festival

ON.DXB shines a spotlight on the talented UAE media community New festival ON.DXB launches this year designed specifically for talented independent filmmakers, gamers, video artists and musicians to showcase their work to a global audience of industry specialists, investors, peers and consumers. It’ll feature live music, workshops, talks, and indie game showcases with sessions led by industry experts and celebrities from all over the world.

November 21 to 23 a Dubai Studio City. ondxbfest.com 11.2019_What’s On_119

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CULTURE

From busker to big time Passenger performs at Dubai Opera this month

MUSIC

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ritish singer-songwriter Michael Rosenberg, more commonly known as Passenger, will be bringing his soulful folk-rock tunes to the stage of Dubai Opera on Wednesday, November 20.

Renowned for his expressive lyrics and impassioned vocals, it’s hard to believe the singer was once a struggling musician whose solo career began in 2009 as a busker on the street corners of Britain following the split of his band. However, Rosenberg’s humble origins were soon transformed to worldwide success following the release of his 2012 multi-award winning single, Let Her Go, which took him from the streets to international stadiums. His melancholic ballad has achieved global success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard charts in 19 countries and to date has accumulated a staggering 2.5 billion views on YouTube. The smash hit also earned Passenger a Brit Award nomination for British Single of the Year in 2014 and won him the Ivor Novello Award for Most Performed Work soon after.

Although there is no doubt that Passenger will be performing this soulful hit on stage, he will also be

performing a selection of songs from his latest 12th studio album, Sometimes It’s Something, Sometimes It’s Nothing at All, which sees him accompanied by a string quartet. Performing in Dubai for one night, and one night only, this event is certainly not one to miss.

November 20 a Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Wed 8pm, from Dhs195. Tel: (04) 4408888. dubaiopera.com

Mozart of Madras returns

AR Rahman brings his colourful concert to Coca-Cola Arena Award-winning musician, Allah-Rakha Rahman, more commonly known as AR Rahman returns to Dubai on Friday, November 15. The Indian music director, affectionately known as ‘the Mozart of Madras’ is renowned for integrating Eastern classical music with electronic music sounds and has even bagged Academy and Grammy Awards for his worldwide hit Jai Ho, the song composed for the 2008 movie Slumdog Millionaire. Catch him live with special guests when he performs at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena.

November 15 a Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai, Fri, Dhs50 onwards. Tel: (04) 4390900. coca-cola-arena.com

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CULTURE

FILM FILM

NEWRELEASES RELEASES NEW

Photo: Disney

★★★★★ DIRECTOR: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee CAST: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel

Frozen II Get ready for the return to the land of Arendelle The truth is, we never let it go. Set three years after the original, spirited sisters Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) are drawn north by a mysterious force that both threatens the kingdom and explains the origin of Elsa’s powers. It’s a much darker film, but the adventure and the new songs absolutely sleigh it.

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DOCTOR SLEEP

Frozen To The Core

DIRECTOR: Mike Flanagan CAST: Ewan McGregor, Kyliegh Curran If you’ve seen iconic 1970 horror film The Shining, it will come as no surprise that little Danny Torrence would give the Overlook Hotel a negative TripAdvisor review. Forty years on, adult Danny (Ewan McGregor) is still traumatized, until he meets Abra (Kyliegh Curran) a young girl who shares his psychic abilities. Instead of jump-scares, expect a high tension, slow burner.

CHARLIE’S ANGELS

Photo: Warner Bros

★★★★★

We love Kristen Bell for so many reasons; The American actress is the star of the brilliant comedy The Good Place, and recently resurrected mystery drama Veronica Mars. She was also the ‘voice’ in Gossip Girl and has an extreme obsession with sloths (Google it now). But her most iconic role has to be Disney’s Princess Anna, which she reprises in Frozen 2

★★★★★

DIRECTOR: Elizabeth Banks CAST: Kristen Stewart, Ella Balinska, Naomi Scott We were really excited for this reboot – we adore Ariana Grande, Lana Del Ray and Miley Cyrus’s new

theme song Don’t Call Me An Angel – but compared to the OG television series or the blockbuster noughties movies, we only have one thing to say to this newest trio: “Thank U, Next.” The biggest

letdown is K-Stew - her character Sabina is the ‘wild one’, but her dull acting drains every scene.

A real shame because the other Angels, Jane and Elena (Balinska and Scott) are fantastic.

Charlie’s Angels

Photo: Sony Pictures

Why do you think Frozen is such a huge hit?

“I don’t think anyone could’ve anticipated how popular the first one was – all we knew was that we fell in love with each other. We have so much fun as a cast.”

How much do you relate to Anna?

“That character came out of me being a ten-year-old girl never seeing a Disney princess who was as weird as I was - I wanted to be like them but I didn’t have the posture of Sleeping Beauty! Can’t we have a Disney princess that talks too much, trips a lot and is super goofy but loves everyone around her?”

What can we expect from the sequel?

“It’ll still be appropriate for kids and kids will still love it, but these girls have grown up as well a little bit.

I think the original fans of Frozen, who were little girls and now might not think it’s for them, will be pleasantly surprised.”

Doctor Sleep

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CULTURE

Photo: Lionsgate

Knives Out

LAST CHRISTMAS DIRECTOR: Paul Feig CAST: Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding Doesn’t London look dreamy during the holidays? Game of Thrones’ Emilia Clarke and Crazy Rich Asians’ Henry Golding attempt to conjure up some of that Love, Actually magic.

Unfortunately, this romcom is a British version of an unpublished Nicholas Sparks novel – even Emma Thompson rocking a Russian accent can’t save this merry malarkey. But it did make us want to go shopping in Covent Garden.

MIDWAY

★★★★★ DIRECTOR: Roland Emmerich CAST: Woody Harrelson, Dennis Quaid After 2001’s war movie Pearl Harbour was panned, Midway director Roland Emmerich’s WWII drama about the pivotal battle in the Pacific that helped turn the tide Japanese forces, won’t end up a rotten tomato. What it goes overboard on with millennial

PLAYING WITH FIRE

★★★★★

124_What’s On_11.2019

Photo: NEON

Wild Rose

Photo: Lionsgate

★★★★★

DIRECTOR: Andy Hickman CAST: John Leguizamo, John Cena Parents who suffer from animation exhaustion will appreciate this family film about a group of ‘smokejumpers,’ an elite team of firefighters who rescue three siblings, but have to babysit them until they can

Midway

locate their parents. Classic comedic chaos ensues, along with some cute doggo gags and a few hard truths about parenting. You’ll leave the cinema with a smile!

eye candy (Glee’s Darren Criss and Jonas Brothers’ Nick both star as hunky junior officers), it makes up for with explosive grit.

that will keep you guessing.

A triumphant homage to Agatha Christie whodunnits.

KNIVES OUT

DIRECTOR: Tom Harper CAST: Jessie Buckley “I should’ve been born in America,” huffs headstrong Rose-Lynn (Jessie Buckley), a single mum and ex-con who drifts between Glasgow’s dive bars, determined to become a country singer. It isn’t hard to see why - the moment she starts to sing any hint of her Scottish burr melts away, her mellifluous voice sweeping her audience to Nashville. This is peak happy-sad, and in Jessie Buckley, a star is born.

★★★★★

DIRECTOR: Rian Johnson CAST: Toni Collette, Chris Evans Toni Collette, Chris Evans and Jamie Lee Curtis star as members of the dysfunctional Thrombrey family and some of the suspects accused of murdering patriarch and mystery writer Harlan (Christopher Plummer).

Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig), orchestrates the eccentric investigation

WILD ROSE

★★★★★

SPORT + WELL-BEING + TRAVEL

PA G E 136

Spin city

Explore the Emirates on a cross-country cycle DUBAI FITNESS CHALLENGE p128 DISCOVERING NORWAY p147 11.2019_What’s On_127

A C T I V E

ACTIVE // DUBAI FITNESS CHALLENGE

Dubai Fitness Challenge With two weeks remaining of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, there’s never been a better time to sign up for races and free events on around town What’s On at the DFC Fitness Villages?

This year, the Dubai Fitness Challenge has launched two fitness villages at Kite Beach and Dubai Festival City, offering complimentary classes and inspiring activations. At Kite Beach, the open-air fitness centre is home to beachside basketball, a boxing and martial arts gym, yoga and meditation zone, and group workouts in front of the main stage. There’s also a watersports hub offering tips on paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking, plus a kids’ play area and Tough Mudder training course.

Across town at Dubai Festival City, you’ll find indoor and outdoor activities including VR cricket and a Jump station, daily competitions, and Crossfit sessions. You can even jump on a bike for free to pedal along the promenade to Marsa Beach, where a series of workouts and beach sports await.

Until November 16 a Fitness Villages are located at Kite Beach (daily, 7am to 9pm) and Dubai Festival City (Sun to Wed, 12pm to 10pm; Thur to Sat, 12pm to 12am). dubaifitnesschallenge.com 128_What’s On_11.2019

FOUR UNMISSABLE EVENTS 01 Dubai Pink Ride, Nov 1 02 Dubai Women’s Run, Nov 1 03 Beat Diabetes Walk, Nov15 04 La Mer Open Water Swim Race, Nov 16

TOUGH MUDDER

SPOTLIGHT ON

The main event of the Dubai Fitness Challenge’s final weekend, Tough Mudder will take place on November 15 at Dubai Festival City. Choose from the Tough Mudder 5K course with 13 obstacles over a 5km route; the Tough Mudder Classic, with 25 obstacles on a 10km route; the timed Tougher Mudder format; or the Mini Mudder 1.6km course for kids aged five to 13. a From Dhs100 to Dhs500. toughmudder.ae

A C T I V E

FIRST LOOK AT

ACTIVE // STUDIO

The Platform Studios A new fitness centre in DIFC run by ‘Exercise Mixologists’ offers more than 500 group classes a week

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rom the team behind The Platform Gym in Dubai Marina comes The Platform Studios, a 10,000-square-foot fitness centre that fuses cutting-edge equipment with the latest in wellness technology.

The purpose-built DIFC studio is the biggest group-class, workout studio concept to launch in the UAE, says co-founder Stewart Miller.

“We are passionate about bringing the best exercise experiences and our Marina studio is a testament to this. It has become the heartbeat of the community and we wanted to recreate this 130_What’s On_11.2019

in Downtown Dubai, with even more amplified facilities,” he says.

“Everything has been strategically designed to make members have the best possible workout experience, from being able to build their own workouts, to easy online and app pre-booking, and fingerprint arrival,” says Stewart.

The DIFC studio will also feature a Cryotherapy treatment room, aqua boxing bags, the latest Technogym bikes, skillrun treadmills and rowers, and live DJ facilities that will broadcast into all of the studios.

“Everything we do at The Platform Studios is about

creating amazing fitness experiences for our members, which is why we call ourselves the ‘exercise mixologists’. We know that people lead busy lives and that variety is key, so we’ve launched the Mix It Up classes to cater to these needs,” says Stewart.

The concept allows members to combine two 30-minute classes in one back-to-back session, such as cycle and HIIT, or cycle and yoga. “We put the customer in control of creating their own class and allow them to build a workout that suits them,” says Stewart.

With more than 500 group classes each week and over 40 varieties to choose from, Stewart reckons you’re sure to find the right session for you. a The Platform Studios, Index Towers, DIFC. theplatformstudios.com

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Join us for this unique and fun brunch, inspired by a blend of cultures and tastes across the Commonwealth. Celebrate food in a social setting, where a massive array of dishes hit your table.

AED 279 per person including selected beverages (Original price: AED 399 per person) Fridays, 7pm to 10pm

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Join the Harbour Social Club and enjoy access to special offers, unlock benefits, be the first to know about upcoming events and create endless memories with us.

For restaurant reservations, call 971.4.319.4000

DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street | Dubai Marina marriottharbourdubaidining.com Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites | marriottharbour Terms & Conditions: Quote “What’s On” while you make the booking to avail the offer.

The discount valid until 29 November 2019. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, promotion or discount and cannot be exchanged for cash.

A C T I V E

SPORT // GOLF

More than just a tee party for golfing pros We chat to Tom Phillips, Head of Middle East, European Tour, about the DP World Tour Championships, and why it’s a great day out for golf fans and families...

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The lush greenery of Jumeirah Golf Estates also makes for a pretty enjoyable place to spend the day. This year, we’re introducing a walking map for spectators, so people can come and follow the specially marked trail and get in some exercise while enjoying the action.

The course measures around seven kilometres, so you’re guaranteed a good workout in beautiful surroundings.

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The DP World Tour Championships is the season-ending event on the European Tour. It has the most exclusive field of any tournament on the schedule, with only the top 50 players in the Race to Dubai Rankings eligible to play. That means you’re guaranteed to see lots of big names and some extremely high-quality golf.

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Best of all, it’s free entry!

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It’s one of only eight prestigious, big-money, ‘Rolex Series’ events and has the largest first prize in world golf, with US$3 million going to the winner and an overall prize fund of US$8 million. Past winners include Rory McIlroy (twice), Henrik Stenson (twice) and Lee Westwood (inaugural winner, 2009).

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As it’s the final event of the season, it’s also the last chance for players to compete to win the Race to Dubai – the season-long competition to crown the European Tour’s No.1 player, so 132_What’s On_11.2019

there is a lot resting on the tournament.

4

The event also has plenty of great attractions away from the course and many spectators attend because it’s become known for being a fun day out. There’s amazing food and drinks, a huge kids’ play area, free golf lessons, trick shot shows, live music and lots of other activities going on in the Championship Village.

November 21 to 24 a DP World Tour Championships Dubai, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Thur to Sun. Free entry. dpwtc.com

A C T I V E

SPORT // WAKEBOARDING

Wakeboarding takes over the capital Watch the world’s best do battle at the IWWF World Wakeboarding Championships, and find out why the UAE is a wakeboarder’s paradise...

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he UAE is set to cement its place as a global watersports hub when the 2019 IWWF World Wakeboard Championships roll into Abu Dhabi this month. From November 19 to 23, more than 160 riders from 30 countries will compete for the IWWF World Titles and US$50,000 in prize money at the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club (ADIMSC).

It’s a massive coup for the capital, which is described as 134_What’s On_11.2019

the ultimate wakeboarding destination by Paul Fong, executive director of the International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF). “For a long time, I’ve believed the UAE would become one of the wakeboard capitals of the world, thanks to its warm year-round weather, vast bodies of water and inexpensive fuel,” says Paul.

What’s On chats to one of the competitors about the upcoming event, and the wakeboarding scene in the UAE...

November 19 to 23 a IWWF World Wakeboard

Championships, Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club. adimsc.ae.

5 MINUTES WITH

Nicolo Caimi The 2018 IWWF European Wakeboard Champion, from Italy

Where are you based?

I live in Cantu, a small town 15 minutes from Lake Como in Italy. I started wakeboarding 16 years ago on Lake Como at Morgan Club, where I still ride with my coach Enzo Molinari.

When did you start competing?

After seven years, I started competing in Italy and then with the Italian National Wakeboard team in events around the world.

Where’s your favourite place to wakeboard in the world?

Lake Powell, Arizona, USA. What are you most excited about competing in the UAE? The most exciting things about the IWWF World Wakeboard Championships in Abu Dhabi will be competing with the best wakeboarders in the world, having fun and hanging out with people who love what I love, and doing it in a country where I have yet to compete.

A C T I V E

SPORT // UAE ACTIVITIES

Wadi Bih Run – Hatta Edition

©PHISHFOTOZ - Louise Adamson

This hard-rated run is not for the faint-hearted

From one coast to another

Head for the hills, as the Wadi Bih Run returns to Hatta this month. With a course difficulty rating of ‘hard’, this gruelling trail run charts a course over dirt and gravel tracks through the rugged mountain terrain of Hatta. Tackle it solo, with a choice of 20km, 35km and 70km distances, or gather your fittest pals for the fiveperson relay.

November 15 a Hatta, first runners start at 4.30am. Dhs157.50 to Dhs1,575. hatta.wadibih.com

Explore the Emirates on this cross-country cycle

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ide across the UAE with the Urban-Ultra Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge. This 200km course sets off from Sharjah, before cycling across the scenic Hajar Mountains to Kalba on the east coast of the UAE, then heading north to the finishing point in Fujairah. You’ll climb an elevation of about 1300m as you ride on smooth tarmac through sand dunes,

mountain ranges and along the coast. At the finish line, you’ll be treated to a barbecue feast in the grounds of the Le Meridien Al Aqah, plus there’ll be four refreshment stands along the way.

November 15 a Starting at Sharjah Mamzar Lagoons, from 6am. Dhs577.50 to Dhs761.25. coasttocoastcyclechallenge.com

Get pumped on The Palm Head to Palm Jumeirah this month for two action-packed races First up, on Friday November 8, is the Ashurst Trifest at The Palm. The triathlon will take place at The Pointe from 6.30am, with a choice of Super Sprint, Sprint and Olympic 136_What’s On_11.2019

distances. Dhs190 to Dhs686.

Then, on Friday November 22, sign up for the CBD Run on The Palm, taking in some of Dubai’s legendary landmarks as you race along the Palm

Jumeirah Boardwalk. From 7.30am, Dhs42 to Dhs231. a To register for either race, contact RaceME Events.

Tel: (04) 4578620. premieronline.com

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A C T I V E

WELL–BEING // NEWS

New health programmes at Mandarin Oriental The annual memberships boast a host of exclusive benefits

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ne of Dubai’s swishest hotels has just revealed a suitably lavish lifestyle membership. When you sign up for a Silver Fan Membership at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental’s Fitness and Wellness Centre, you’ll get unlimited access to the gym, steam room and sauna, a free fitness assessment and personal training session, and endless in-house classes, plus discounts on spa treatments and selected food and drink throughout the resort. Plump for the Gold Fan Membership, and you’ll also get full access to the pool and beach, a one-night stay in the hotel for two, Club Lounge privileges and free kids’ club, along with a range of other discounts and benefits.

Memberships start at Dhs15,000 per person per year. a Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Jumeirah 1. Tel (04) 7772222. mandarinoriental.com/dubai

Embrace ancient healing at Ayur Mandala Discover 5,000-year-old Ayurvedic treatments on Al Wasl Road

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rawing on the age-old healing practices of Ayurveda, Ayur Mandala offers an holistic approach to beauty and well-being. The centre promises to restore your body and mind with tailored treatments that draw on the natural benefits of essential oils, herbs, minerals and proteins.

If you’re new to Ayurveda, try the Thakra Dhara massage (Dhs400), which includes a therapeutic oil massage followed by a ‘dhara’ treatment – warm, medicated buttermilk is poured through a swaying brass funnel over your forehead in a rhythmic pattern that’s said to improve concentration and memory. a Ayur Mandala, Al Wasl Rd, next to J3 Mall, Jumeirah. Daily, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 3363637. ayurmandala.ae 138_What’s On_11.2019

A C T I V E

WELL–BEING // RETREATS

Time for a retreat Work/life balance skewed? Take a break and reset in one of these UAE retreats

RAS AL KHAIMAH

DUBAI Becoming Present to Myself: A Mindfulness Experience Without needing to travel outside Dubai, experience the depth and vitality of a mindfulness practice in the beautiful surroundings of the XVA Hotel. During this weekend retreat, in the heart of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood DUBAI next to the city’s Creek, the focus will be on nurturing, opening and nourishing your inner connection to yourself. The time will be divided between learning, creating and meditations to connect with on the rooftop with some themselves and the gentle morning yoga surrounding nature. and moments of silence.

November 7 to 10 Delicious vegetarian meals a Prices start at Dhs3,000 to served in the courtyard restaurant Dhs4,300.acrossredlines.com of the XVA. November 14 to 16 RAS AL KHAIMAH a XVA Gallery, Al Fahidi Neighbourhood, Alma Retreat Bur Dubai, 312th Road, Al Fahidi St, This boutique wellness and yoga retreat Dubai. Dhs2,950 per person single or takes place every Thursday to Sunday Dhs2,250 per person sharing. Tel: (054) in the comfortable cabins in the Ras Al 4668400. mindfulme.me Khaimah desert. They offer visitors access

AL AIN

Self-Awareness and Love to Access Personal Power Led by Manal Omar, founder of Across Red Lines, this three-day escape in a private farmhouse in the middle of the picturesque Al Ain desert is an intimate experience. Designed by women and for women, the participants will access topics such as facing one’s true self, as well as management skills and mediation. The natural setting also invites the women

to a varied daily programme of meditation, yoga, fitness and creative sessions.

Accommodation is in sustainable and cabins with private open sky bathrooms and complimentary fair trade and natural beauty products. A healthy and organic daily meal plan is provided each day and selection of inspirational books and games are available for guest use.

Every weekend in November a Alma Retreat, Ras Al Khaimah.

Tel: (054) 3270408. Dhs 1999 for two nights. iamalma.com

A BIT FURTHER AFIELD Inner Peace and Inner Power The Abu Dhabi-based Inner Space Centre is organising a retreat in Rajasthan, India. This meditation and yoga retreat is aimed at bringing participants a deep sense of inner peace through a blend of light exercise, silence periods, and walks in nature. If you can’t make it all the way there then rest assured, the centre can organise bespoke retreats as well as meditation workshops every Saturday.

November 4 to 10 a Inner Space Centre, Bain al Jessrain Coop Building, Abu Dhabi. innerspacecentre.ae

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A C T I V E

WELL–BEING // NEWS

Time out for two Indulge with a couple’s spa day at The Address Dubai Marina

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reat your loved one to a day of pampering at The Spa at Address Dubai Marina. Every Wednesday, you and your partner can enjoy a 20 per cent discount on spa treatments of 50 minutes and above. Then, once your massage, facial or wrap is complete, you’ll have all-day access to a private cabana and the hotel’s infinity pool overlooking the Marina. a The Spa at Address Dubai Marina. Wednesdays, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 4367424. addresshotels.com

Small but perfectly formed Expect haute hair and nails at Laloge, Bluewaters A new pint-sized salon has opened at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai. Measuring just 334 square feet, this small but mighty salon promises high-end, French-inspired services, with a full range of men’s and women’s haircuts and treatments, plus a nail station for flawless manis and pedis. a Laloge, Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai. Daily, 10am to 9pm.

Tel: 050 2267101.

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Gather the squad for a fun night out at the movies!

On November 13, enjoy an exclusive screening of Charlie’s Angels at VOX Cinemas - Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif and Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi Grab a gift bag and indulge in delicious cinema snacks for AED 80 Book your tickets at voxcinemas.com or the VOX app

/VOXCINEMAS

s

30 TH N OVEMBER 2019

F ABIAN M ÃœLLER First Steinway Prize-Winner Concert

We are honoured to become part of the Steinway Prize-Winner Concert Network FOR TICKETS VISIT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT

+971(0)4 457 3212

A C T I V E

WELL–BEING // NEWS

Yoga workshop at Bodytree Yogi Nora Day is hosting three enlightening sessions over one weekend

Bend, stretch, reconnect Bond during a couples’ yoga retreat on Zaya Nurai Island

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ebalance and reconnect with your loved one during a Couples’ Yoga & Wellness Day Treat with Let’s Go Yoga on idyllic Zaya Nurai Island. Yogi Sasha Quince will lead the day, which begins with a 12-minute boat ride to the retreat. You’ll then ease into things with a 60-minute gentle flow class, including some fun poses to try with your partner, before chilling out

on the beach or in the resort’s temperature-controlled pool.

After a nourishing threecourse lunch at Hooked Lebanese restaurant, a trained therapist will teach you how to give each other a soothing massage, before joining a pre-sunset meditation and couples’ Q&A. As the sun sets, return to Abu Dhabi by boat.

November 16 a Zaya Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi. 8am to 6pm. From Dhs2,300 per couple. letsgoyogame.com

Travelling yogi Nora Day is popping up at Bodytree this month to host a trio of classes over one weekend. Join a Bendy Stretchy Flow class on Friday November 15 (3pm to 5pm), or try the Inversion Excursion (10am to 12pm) or Deep Stretch Yin and Movement (2pm to 4pm) sessions on Saturday November 16. Choose one class for Dhs250, or treat yourself to all three for Dhs600.

November 15 and 16 a Bodytree Studio, Corner of Hazza Bin Zayed and Mubarak Bin Mohammed Street, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4434448. bodytreestudio.com

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A C T I V E

WELL–BEING // NEWS

Pamper hours at Saray Spa Enjoy midweek spa discounts at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan Abu Dhabi

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n need of a little ‘me time’? Head to Saray Spa at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan Abu Dhabi during the spa’s ‘Pamper Hours’ and you’ll receive 40% off your chosen treatment. Book an appointment from Sunday to Wednesday, between 11am and 4pm, to take advantage of this offer. Arabian specialties that sound good enough to eat include the Saray Milk and Honey Immersion, a 90-minute exfoliation and massage session that harnesses the natural powers of milk, honey, oatmeal and rose; and the Arabic Coffee Awakener, which revitalises your skin with a coffee and Dead Sea salt scrub, followed by a mask of Dead Sea mud and coffee, and a full-body massage using pure olive and coffee oils.

Until end of November a Saray Spa, Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi. 0pen daily, 10am to 10pm. marriottalforsanlife.com

PINK POLO’S FREE HEALTH ASSESSMENTS

A family fun day shines a light on women’s well-being Pink Polo at Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club promises a great day out for the whole family, with a polo exhibition game, camel and pony rides, golf lessons and entertainment for all ages.

Most importantly, it also features a Pink Health Education Area, where visitors can chat to medical experts, learn self-examination techniques, and even have a free screening at the mobile mammography unit. Don’t forget to dress in pink for your chance to win prizes for the best adult’s, child’s and pet’s outfit.

November 8 a Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, Ghantoot. From 1pm. pinkpolo.ae

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PRE SE N T S

‫ﻟﻜﻞ ﻛﺘﺎب ﻗﺼﺔ ﻓﻲ ﺗﺎﻳﻤﺰ ﺳﻜﻮﻳﺮ‬

once upon a times square book festival

‫ﻣﻬﺮﺟﺎن اﻟﻜﺘﺎب‬

‫ دﻳﺴﻤﺒﺮ‬14 ‫ ﻧﻮﻓﻤﺒﺮ إﻟﻰ‬14 ‫ﻣﻦ‬ 14 NOVEMBER - 14 DECEMBER, 2019 ‫ ﺣﻴﺚ ﻳﺘﻢ ﻋﺮض ﻣﺌﺎت‬،‫ﻛﻞ ﻋﺸﺎق اﻟﻘﺮاءة واﻟﻜﺘﺐ ﻋﻠﻰ ﻣﻮﻋﺪ ﻫﺎم ﻣﻊ ﻣﻬﺮﺟﺎﻧﻬﻢ ﺑﻤﺮﻛﺰ ﺗﺎﻳﻤﺰ ﺳﻜﻮﻳﺮ‬ !‫اﻟﻜﺘﺐ ﻓﻲ ﻣﺨﺘﻠﻒ اﻟﻤﺠﻼت واﻟﺘﻲ ﺗُ ﺸﺒﻊ ﻧﻬﻢ ﻛﻞ ُﻣﺤﺒﻲ اﻟﻤﻌﺮﻓﺔ‬ Be book smart with Times Square Center Dubai and the page’tastic book festival!

With hundreds of titles to choose from, we’re sure to have you covered!

TimesSquareCenterDubai

@timessquaredxb

timessquarecenter.ae

#timessquarecenterdxb

A C T I V E

Journey to the Arctic circle From the cool, cultured capital to the jaw-dropping gateway to the Arctic, a round-trip journey from Oslo to Tromsø in Norway is a bucket-list experience like no other…

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A C T I V E

TRAVEL // NORWAY

TO DO LIST IN OSLO SEE ‘THE SCREAM’ For art lovers, a visit to Oslo isn’t complete without visiting ‘The Scream’ – located at The National Gallery – a well-known artwork created

by Norwegian artist, Edvard Munch. The painting is set in a Fjord overlooking Oslo. No one knows why the character is screaming, although experts say Munch was troubled when he created it. You can also visit The Munch Museum in Oslo, which is dedicated to the artist and where you can find other works of art. q nasjonalmuseet.no

VISIT THE VIGELAND PARK The world’s largest sculpture park by a single artist is located at Frogner Park and is a showcase of Gustav’s Vigeland’s lifework boasting more than 200 sculptures.

The highlight is The Monolith.

Carved from one piece of granite, it took the artist, and three other carvers 14 years, to create. It is 14m high and depicts 121 humans climbing over each other, meant to represent the human desire to reach out to the divine.

ENJOY A SUNDOWNER AT SUMMIT BAR Probably the best sky bar in Norway, the stylish Summit Bar is located on the 21st floor of the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, and is designed to give the feeling of standing on the top of a mountain (hence its name). The intimate chic bar has floor-to-ceiling windows offering guests stunning 148_What’s On_11.2019

FOR FOODIES 26 North Restaurant & Social Club Prepared in the traditional Nordic style of cooking, tuck into Norwegian ‘tapas’ and mains that include deer meat and Norwegian King crab loin. The desserts are also not to be missed. q 26north.no

Vigeland Park

panoramic views of Oslo and the Fjords and offers great drinks to keep you company as you soak it all in. Head here a little before sunset to catch the views during the day and night. The view alone is worth the trip. q facebook.com/summitbaroslo

The Monolith at Vigeland Park

Summit Bar

WHERE TO STAY Radisson Blu Scandinavia Oslo The hotel is nestled in the heart of the city, so it’s pretty close to everything on your to-do list. However, it still maintains a calm and peaceful nature – perfect after a long day out in the city. An extensive renovation has transformed the hotel that now boasts modern rooms, each offering scenic views of Oslo. Expect warm Scandinavian friendliness and outstanding services by the hotel’s experienced team. Room rates start at Dhs650 per night for two people. q radissonhotels.com

RIB-Boat tour

View of the mainland from Tromsø

TO DO LIST IN TROMSØ

Radisson Blu Scandinavia Oslo

‘The Scream’ at The National Gallery

Cable car

SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

Good planning, being quick and having an excellent tour RIDE THE CABLE guide (try Arctic Concierge, see right) is crucial to catching CAR Want a spectacular view of the magical aurora. The Tromsø? Head to the green glowing rings that’s Tromsø cable on everyone’s bucket list, is car, which created when electrically Tag on a trip will take charged particles from to the impressive Arctic Cathedral you 421m the sun hit atoms in our that’s just 10-minute above sea atmosphere. Aurora walk from the level to the season falls between cable cars Storsteinen September and March, mountain so plan accordingly. ledge. You’ll enjoy SAIL THROUGH spectacular views of the city, THE TROMSØ the surrounding islands, FJORDS mountains and fjords. At the Fly across the fjords in up to top, tuck into a warm meal 45 knots onboard a RIB-Boat. (we recommend the lamb If you’re lucky you’ll get to see stew) at the licensed Fjellstua eagles, puffins, seals and other restaurant. And don’t lose seabirds. At the pitstop, you your cable car ticket, or else can take your snaps and refuel you’re walking down for the with complimentary coffee return journey. and a cinnamon bun before q momentnorway.no

the return journey. The tour includes safety suits, goggles, gloves, and waterproof shoes and the whole experience lasts about three hours. q greengoldofnorway.com

ARCTIC CONCIERGE

BOOK

If you’d prefer to have your trip in Arctic Norway planned by the experts, try Arctic Concierge. They provide customised itineraries including dog-sledding, Aurora tours, catered camping trips and more depending on your requirements. Think of them as your own personal help-desk during your stay. Email concierge@arcticconcierge.no for more information.

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A C T I V E

TRAVEL // NORWAY

WHERE TO EAT

MS Bjørnvåg An advance booking is required if you wish to dine at this fabulous and unique restaurant inside an old refurbished fishing boat.

Expect a long, leisurely dinner here, where you’ll enjoy up to 13 courses of the Arctic’s finest, using only the top ingredients available, and prepared by the ever-smiling Chef Eivind M.E. Austad and his team. q bjornvag.no

GET ME THERE

WHERE TO STAY Radisson Blu Tromsø

Radisson Blu Tromsø is perfectly located in Norway’s northernmost city and it provides an ideal base for discovering Arctic wonders. The hotel is located a stone’s throw away from several of the city’s attractions and a few minutes away from the airport. The Nordic designed rooms and suites that are newly renovated focus on comfort and offer scenic views of the of the surrounding mountains, forests, and fjords. Room rates start at Dhs530 per night for two people. q radissonhotels.com

Emirates flies direct from Dubai to Oslo six times a week for Dhs3,895 return (approx). The flight takes seven hours.

SAS flies direct from Oslo to Tromsø for Dhs880 return.

The flight takes two hours.

DOS AND DON’TS FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBER WHILE YOU’RE IN NORWAY Yonas Pizzeria With all the Nordic cuisines available, you may be wondering, why pizza? But, if you love a unique pizza, Yonas Pizzeria is one you should try. The breakfast style pizza is a win, with ham, bacon and whipped eggs, or you could try a local favourite with reindeer meat. q yonas.no

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DO

Dress warm.

Layering is the key so pack your thermals and thick winter coats.

Gloves and waterproof shoes are a must.

DO

Pick up after yourself.

The Norwegians consciously think: “who’s going to use this after me,” which is why everything is very clean.

DON’T

Depend on your credit card.

The smaller stores or cafés may not accept credit cards, so be sure to carry some Krone.

DON’T

Leave without trying the Norwegian cuisine.

Dishes on the menu will include moose, reindeer and of course, plenty of fish which most likely was caught the very same day.

WIN!

DHS500 VOUCHERS TO SPEND AT FOUR UAE RESTAURANTS To celebrate our 500th issue of What’s On, one lucky winner will get to enjoy Dhs500 to spend at some of the UAE’s top restaurants and brunches. There’s a voucher for Blue Marlin Ibiza Saturday brunch, a voucher

for Greek hotspot OPA, a voucher for Burger & Lobster, and a voucher for La Piscina, all worth Dhs500 each. That’s a grand value of Dhs2,000. Just be sure to wear your stretchy trousers.

T&C’s apply.

qq For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win 152_What’s On_11.2019

#

UAE’s No. 1 newspaper for the latest scoops in events & entertainment.

Gulf News tabloid! is the ultimate source for news from the world of entertainment. From celebrity gossip, fashion & beauty tips and travel destination reviews to all the updates from the most popular events happening in the country.

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AN OVERNIGHT STAY AND BRUNCH FOR TWO IN ABU DHABI 154_What’s On_11.2019

Fancy a staycation in Abu Dhabi instead? What’s On has teamed up with Marriott Hotel Al Forsan to give away an indulgent stay for two at their hotel. The prize includes brunch at the brand-new Appaloosa concept where you and a guest can sit outside in the trendy beer garden and enjoy pub grub served table-side. Then you can retire to your luxury room before enjoying breakfast the next morning. Bliss. T&C’s apply.

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

I N A C O P Y C AT W O R L D W H E R E S O M U C H I S BECOMING THE SAME, THERE ARE STILL PLACES W H E R E YO U C A N E X P E R I E N C E T H E U N PA C K A G E D T H R I L L O F O R I G I N A L D I S C OV E RY. For tranquillity. For relaxation. For conversation. For timeless afternoons.

The Jetty Lounge, beachside at The Palace, One&Only Royal Mirage. For you.

Open daily from 2pm

oneandonlyroyalmirage.com +971 4 399 9999

CafĂŠ Artois welcomes The Boxtones, a multi award-winning Scottish and Canadian rock band, to add zest to those Wednesday nights. Enjoy canal views and delicious comfort food and casual BBQ bites.

Every Wednesday from 8pm until 11pm

BridgewaterTavern

#CafeArtois

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