What's On Abu Dhabi - December 2021

C O N G R AT U L AT I N G T H E U A E O N I T S G O L D E N J U B I L E E Issue 525

December 2021

UAE DHS15

PLUS: MORE SPORTING ACTION IN THE CAPITAL WITH THE RETURN OF THE MUBADALA TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP 2021

CONTENTS

FEATURES

YASALAM AFTERRACE CONCERTS SOME OF MUSIC’S BIGGEST NAMES ARE HEADED FOR YAS ISLAND AS PART OF F1’S BIG RACING WEEKEND P28 14 HOLIDAY SEASON SORTED

14

A big fat stocking of festive treats

24 TENNIS TALK Meet the woman lighting up the tennis world and headlining Mubadala World Tennis Championship Page 24

36 THE FUTR IS HERE

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Six reasons why FUTR World is an unmissable Abu Dhabi experience

What’s On_3

CONTENTS COVER

REGULARS 10 Yalla!

Quick fix of news

12 UAE Famous Stephanie Danial – queen of the desert

66 Last-minute staycation Polynesian feels on the East Crescent at Sofitel Dubai The Palm

41

Cover: Sheila Deocareza

Stay in touch

39 CONSUME

58

40 EAT

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.

Lofty afternoon teas and Japanese cuisine at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

43 BRUNCH A review of Market Brunch at Graphos Social Kitchen

44 SUPPER CLUB FUN How to join our exclusive What’s On The Menu? evenings

49 CULTURE 50 AGENDA Unmissable festive events to attend this month

Page 40

52 52 FILM Keanu Reeves returns as Neo in The Matrix Resurrections.

Plus, murder, madness, glamour and greed in House of Gucci starring Lady Gaga, Adam Driver and Jared Leto

54 4_What’s On

54 REGIONAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT The next local music sensation: Tamtam

60

57 ACTIVE 58 NEW ATTRACTION A look inside The National Aquarium

60 TRAVEL The best festive markets from around the world

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

Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnAbudhabi facebook.com/ WhatsOnAbudhabi instagram.com/ WhatsOnAbudhabi tiktok.com/ WhatsOnAbudhabi

YOUR SHANGRI-LA

THE FESTIVE

CO LLECT IO N

T I S TH E SEASO N AN D C R E AT E C O U N T L E S S M E M O R I E S W I TH SHAN G RI - LA H O T E L , Q A RYAT A L B E R I , A B U D H A B I !

Unwrap a selection of exciting hotel events, celebrations at home, gift vouchers, foodie treats and unforgettable dining experiences to make the most wonderful time of the year even more magical.

SCAN TO DISCOVER MORE

For reservations, please e-mail restaurantreservations.slad@shangri-la.com or call 02 509 8555

12.21 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

HEAD OF CONTENT – WHAT’S ON Laura Coughlin laura.coughlin@motivate.ae DEPUTY EDITOR Elise Kerr elise.kerr@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Miles Buckeridge miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae ONLINE REPORTER Lauren Fletcher lauren.fletcher@motivate.ae JUNIOR ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar aarti@motivate.ae SENIOR VIDEO EDITOR Surajit Dutta surajit@motivate.ae CONTENT CREATIVE ARTIST Joachim Guay joachim.guay@motivate.ae WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi firoz@motivate.ae ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza sheila@motivate.ae JUNIOR DESIGNER Remy Thokchom thokchom.remy@motivate.ae

CONTRIBUTORS

Iain Akerman, Liz Totton, Harriet Shephard GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar sunil@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 Taran Singh taran.singh@motivate.ae SENIOR SALES MANAGER Violeta Popescu violeta.popescu@motivate.ae DIGITAL SALES DIRECTOR Sabir Khodabux sabir.khodabux@motivate.ae

WHATSON.AE | WHATSONSAUDIARABIA.COM

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: SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, 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

6_What’s On

Bring on the Festive Cheer

at InterContinental Abu Dhabi award winning restaurants

For restaurant reservations, please call 800 423 463 InterContinental Abu Dhabi King Abdulla bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Street, PO Box 4171, Abu Dhabi, UAE Phone: +971 2 666 6888, Fax: +971 2 666 9153, Email: intercontinental.abudhabi@ihg.com

InterContiAD

interconad

Scan for more

FEEL THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON Raclette Brasserie & Café is celebrating the festive season with tantalizing specials and dazzling activities so grab you your loved ones and join us for some holiday cheer ...

Browse through our festive brochure and stay tuned for more exciting updates @racletteuae

For reservations – call 056 996 6898 Lilac 5 Bldg - Jacques Chirac St - Mamsha Al Saadiyat - Al Sa’Diyat Cultural District – Abu Dhabi

EDITOR’S LETTER

I WAS GOING TO FOREGO WRITING THE EDITOR’S LETTER.... ... this issue, and instead just print the lyrics to Phoebe Buffay’s Christmas song (sample: “Went to the store, sat on Santa’s lap, asked him to bring my friends all kinds of cr*p”).

Yes, I admit, using a ridiculous holiday song from Friends might seem, well, a little ‘out there’, but hey, it’s Christmas. If ever I was going to get away with such frivolity it would be now, because it’s Christmas. Who cares what craziness LC is up to, it’s Christmas, and we’re all having too much fun.

But then it occurred to me – Christmas is tonnes of fun for me because I have it so easy. It wasn’t me that had to go and collect a huge artificial tree and bring it home (thank you ACE Hardware for that). And it won’t be me who will be buying in all the stuff needed for a huge Christmas dinner, then spending all day cooking it (thank you UAE five-star hotel brunch).

And, yes, we do have lots to do at work at this time of year, but I also have an amazing team around me, working non-stop to produce brilliant editions of What’s On, and your daily dose of festive news on WhatsOn.ae, so a big thank you to the team, too.

Luckily, we’re never ones not to share the love here at What’s On, and once again we’ve come up trumps for you, too, to help make your festive season a little more easier and fun.

Starting on page 18, we have seven pages of brilliant festive ideas, from the best Christmas dinners and markets to explore, to the best parties to go to. Not only that, we also have a whole separate supplement to the best New Year’s Eve parties, from small to large, however you want to see in 2022.

And as if all that wasn’t enough, this issue we also bring you the lowdown on three of the country’s biggest events, the F1 and its amazing Yasalam After-Race concerts (p28); FUTR World (p36); and Mubadala Tennis Championships (p24), all of which are taking place in the capital this month.

To top off the celebrations this year, and on behalf of the whole team here at What’s On, we’d love to extend our warmest congratulations to the UAE – our second home – on its Golden Jubilee milestone. Thanks for making this place the best place on Earth. Here’s to the next 50th.

Enjoy the issue, merry Christmas, and a happy New Year to you all.

Get in touch twitter.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi facebook.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi instagram.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi tiktok.com/ WhatsOnAbuDhabi

What’s On_9

BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN DECEMBER

NATIONAL DAY

When: December 2 The UAE’s 50th National Day takes place this month, and there are huge celebrations happening all over the UAE – including Hatta. For more news on Golden Jubilee celebrations, check out WhatsOn.ae.

VIDCON ABU DHABI 2021

When: December 3 to 6 Meet the world’s leading content creators on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube at the Abu Dhabi edition of the global festival q vidcon.com/abu-dhabi-en

10_What’s On

SEE P36

FUTR WORLD

When: December 9 to 11 Futr Festival, Futr Live and Futr Summit combine for a three-day mega fest. q @futrworld

ABU DHABI AQUATICS FESTIVAL

When: December 16 to 21 The world’s best swimmers, open water swimmers, and high divers come together for an aquatics show in parallel with the FINA World Swimming Championships. q fina.org SEE P24

FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI GRAND PRIX 2021

SEE P28

When: December 9 to 12 See the final race of the F1 season, together with star-studded after-parties and concerts. q yasmarinacircuit.com

MOTHER OF THE NATION FESTIVAL

When: December 9 to 18 Six zones, family fun entertainment, regional music stars and loads more – this year’s MOTN festival is back bigger than ever before. q motn.ae

WINTER WONDERLAND

When: December 9 to 23 Theatrical performances, Santa’s Grotto, sliding slope parks, a Narnia-themed maze and festive food stalls galore at Al Maryah Island’s waterfront promenade. q thegalleria.ae

MUBADALA WORLD TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

When: December 16 to 18 Abu Dhabi’s favourite sporting event returns with big names and family fun entertainment. q mubadalawtc.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE IN ABU DHABI

When: December 31 From fancy galas to evening party brunches, there’s an awful lot happening in the city – and you need to plan in advance. Check out our New Year’s Eve guide tucked into this issue.

What’s On_11

STEPHANIE DANIAL QUEEN OF THE DESERT

How long have you lived in the UAE and what inspired you to move here?

We arrived from Geneva in 2010. At the time I was a senior private banker covering East Africa. My best friend and sister were living here and I thought that life would be nicer in the sun and Dubai offered many more entertainment and activities to all the family. I always loved the energy of Dubai.

How and why did you make the switch from banking to creating Sonara?

After my fourth child, I stopped working for a few years. That time allowed me to self reflect and I made a list of what I like to do and what I am good at doing. I love to organise, plan parties, create, share and decorate.

I always enjoyed taking my kids to the desert but the options were limited. Either you could go to a tourist camp or you do it yourself.

The latter is so much work, and not my style.

U

AE Famous is a What’s On page focusing on people out there making the scene.

They’re out there around town, shaping the UAE into what it is, creating the culture, food and life around us. We asked them what’s good in the UAE. We asked them what’s bad in the UAE. We asked them to tell us more, more, more about their wonderful selves…

12_What’s On

“I STARTED NARA WITH TWO COUCHES, A TABLE AND A TENT JUST FOUR YEARS AGO” To the uninitiated, who are you and what’s made you UAE Famous?

I am a woman, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend and now an entrepreneur. I create unique experiences and I chose to start my journey in the desert. I created Nara Desert Escape, a private and exclusive eco-friendly desert camp almost four years ago, followed by Sonara Camp, a restaurant safari in the heart of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

How does Sonara stand out from other desert experiences?

We are a new desert safari concept; we offer flexibility, customised experiences, great food and good wine. I don’t like

to compare us with others who are more geared to tourism.

Our motto is: “Just ask and Nara will make it happen.”

You won the award for best newcomer at the What’s On Awards 2020.

How did that feel?

Amazing. I am so proud of all my team that made it happen.

My team and I are very united.

Together, we created the concept from scratch, and to receive this recognition was truly an honour. I started Nara with two couches, a table and a tent just four years ago and to see my vision grow so fast is really motivating me to go even further.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about Sonara?

That it is really a challenge to prepare and serve an amazing dinner in the middle of the desert powered by Solar panels.

What do you love about the UAE? I love the people, the energy, the climate, the possibilities and that the city offers.

And what annoys you?

The image that people abroad can have about Dubai being superficial. It is a new city with an incredible vision and so many facets.

What’s next for you and the brand?

Sonara in RAK and Sonara’s Nest in Dubai will open soon.

I’m so excited about these new projects. I can’t wait to share more news so stay tuned for more of Nara’s adventure. q nara.ae

Above: Sonara camp at night

It’s that time of year when we have free rein to eat, drink and be merry. From blowout Christmas Eve brunches to Big Day turkey dinners, we’ve got everything you need to make this a very special December 14_What’s On

CHRISTMAS EVE 1 Alba Terrace The venue’s popular Weekend Spritz is getting smothered with festive spirit for Christmas Eve. But since it’s a Tom Aikens restaurant it’s going to be a classy affair with live music and menu items such as spaghetti vongole, panettone, and fresh wood oven-fired fare. The drinks will be just as sophisticated, with plenty of the titular spritz blends available alongside Almalfi-inspired mixology. a The Abu Dhabi Edition, Al Bateen, choose a three hour window between 12.30pm to 5pm Dhs295 with soft drinks, Dhs395 with house drinks, Dhs495 bubbles. Tel: (0)2 208 0000. editionhotels.com

4 Fairmont Bab al Bahr It’s beginning to look a lot like brunchmas at Fairmont Bab al Bahr, with its multirestaurant festive Friday brunch, including food stations showcasing the culinary might of CuiScene, Marco’s and Bridges Bar. An Old Papa Chrimbo visit will be popping in for a pre-emptive toy delivery. a Fairmont Bab al Bahr, Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs249 with soft drinks, Dhs347 with house drinks, Dhs649 premium, under 12s 50 per cent off. Tel: (0)2 654 3333. fairmont.com

2

Cafe Milano Christmas Eve at fine-dining Italian restaurant Cafe Milano has a very European accent.

The menu features shareable ‘dolci Natalizi’, a crab meat salad with festive touches, homemade pasta (of course), and a traditional Milanese festive dish – pan-seared monkfish with pumpkin puree. a Four Seasons Hotel, Jazeerat Al Maryah, 6pm onwards, prices from Dhs410. Tel: (02) 02 333 2222. fourseasons.com

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Cove Beach Abu Dhabi It’s all about the sun, sea and sleigh bells at Cove this Christmas with a seasonally enhanced version of its Friday brunch, which takes the form of a four-course set menu. As the clock hands tick closer to Santa’s sled-off, you can enjoy a three-course dinner menu, starting at just Dhs150. Expect nostalgic Christmas songs mixed up with other retro classics served by a trio of DJs DVS, Keeny, and Nuf. a Makers District, Al Reem Island. 1pm to 5pm, starting from Dhs249, dinner starting from Dhs150. Tel: (056) 398 7895, @covebeachabudhabi

What’s On_15

CHRISTMAS EVE 5

Grills@Chill’O This Corniche sky terrace restaurant offers two things we’re particularly fond of about Abu Dhabi Christmases – chilling and grilling. And on December 24, there’s a traditional Chrimbo banquet with a French twist. Think roasted turkey with chestnuts, Brussels sprouts, braised cabbage, honey glazed carrots, lashings of turkey gravy, coq au vin, boeuf a la bourguignonne, duck confit, and foie gras.

Want more? There are more international menu options available too, live music and maybe even a visit from the sleigh master-in-chief. a Grills@Chill’O, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 7pm to 11pm. Dhs275 with soft drinks, Dhs370 with house drinks, Dhs545 bubbles, Dhs110 children from seven to 12. Tel: (0)2 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

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Li Jiang Give your night before Chrimbo an authentic Asian flavour with the special Christmas Eve dinner at Li Jiang. The four-course menu includes delicate dim sum, handmade noodles, yaki tori chicken, panfried tooth fish and mocha tea cheesecake for dessert, all available against the stunning backdrop of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. a The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, 7pm to midnight, Dhs450 with soft drinks, Dhs650 with house drinks.

Tel: (02) 818 8888, @ritzcarltonabudhabi

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6

Sacci

Khayal Have a holly, jolly eve at Khayal with a lavish buffet and plenty of live cooking stations.

There’s mulled grape, mulled vibes and we understand that the man in red is mulling over a visit to come and spoil the little ones ahead of the big day. a Marriott Al Forsan, Khalifa City, 6.30pm to 11pm.

Dhs249 with soft drinks. Add Dhs149 and upgrade to house or Dhs199 and upgrade to bubbles, Dhs99 for children, under sixes free. Tel: (0)2 201 4000. marriott.com

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Kuzbara Plate up gastro-gifts from live stations offering soup, roast meat joints and other carvery delights, plus festive desserts, including a classic dark chocolate Yule log. If the kids behave, they can take home little gifts. Book before December 10 for a 30 per cent discount. a Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, 7pm to 11pm. Dhs175 with soft drinks, Dhs295 with house drinks. Tel: (0)2 304 7777. marriottdowntownabudhabilife.com

If you like your December 24 celebrations a little more fancy, head to Sacci for a night of real festive indulgence.

Chef Giovani has prepared a decadent five-course festive feast. Pair your set menu with house drinks for a very reasonable Dhs399. Off menu, guests will find a big stack of live entertainment waiting for them under the tree. a The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi. 7pm to 11pm. Dhs399 with house drinks. Tel: (0)2 616 9999. sacciabudhabi.com What’s On_17

CHRISTMAS day 10

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Fairways

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel

Like the man in red himself, this family-friendly ‘Santalicious’ brunch is big, well-rounded and comes with the option of helping your belly shake like a bowl full of jelly. On the menu there’s a Yuletide focused buffet, carving stations and signature festive beverages, paired with live entertainment including a visit from Santa. a The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi, Dhs495 with soft drinks, Dhs695 with house drinks, Dhs245 children from seven to 12 years. Tel: (0)2 616 9999. fairwaysabudhabi.com

If you like rocking around the Christmas treats, you should probably consider visiting the Anantara this December 25.

Its special dine around brunch allows you to hop between Ingredients, The Pool Deck and Mekong, enjoying a range of festive (and alternative) food, gorgeous mangrove views and there’s a pretty good chance Father C will be dropping in to distribute this year’s gifts. a Anantara Eastern Mangroves, Al Kheeran, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs325 with soft drinks, Dhs475 with house drinks. Tel: (05) 503 5121. @anantaraeasternmangroves

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Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

11 Butcher & Still Chef Marshall Roth is whipping up a traditional Christmas brunch at Butcher & Still. Dig into a selection of fine dining holiday favourites, trimmings galore, and a deep ladel of that mulled vibe. a Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs390 per person. Tel: (02) 333 2222, @butcherandstill 18_What’s On

This hotel has a few options for festive celebrations, but our pick of the gifts has to be the Christmas Market Brunch.

Stack your plate with station served hits from the hotel’s dazzling array of restaurants, with sashimi from Café Sushi, barbecue stations on The Terrace and a whole load of Marco Pierre White creative

Christmas juice thrown in, too.

Elsewhere, you’ll find sing-along Christmas carol sessions, live entertainment, a raffle with exciting prizes and of course, a visit from Santa and his elves. a Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs395 with soft drinks, Dhs545 with house drinks, Dhs795 bubbles. Tel: (02) 654 3333. @fairmontbabalbahr

Festive panto We’ve had enough of the food options. Wait, ‘Oh no we haven’t’. Well, having a theatrical break won’t hurt, anyway. This classic princess story is a pantomime classic. Crystal slippers, bungling butlers, comic relief in the form of Buttons, ugly sisters, fairy Godmothers, and the age-old romantic story of Cinderella and the Prince’s ‘will-they-wont-they?’ saga. Expect singalongs, choruses of ‘he’s behind you’ and all the fun of British Christmas carry-on.

December 16 to 27 a Theatre by Erth, Khor Al Maqta, Dhs97. abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net

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Garage

Kuzbara

The festive season is all about going big. Big portions, big gestures of good will, and we’re not sure who needs to hear this but *winks* big presents.

On that theme, you’d do well to head for W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island’s B.I.G Christmas Day brunch at Garage. We’re talking deck-ing the halls with seasonal DJ spun tunes, sweet treats delivered by elves, a visit from Big Papa C, and there’s even an after-brunch drinks deal at W Lounge where you can enjoy 2-for-1 drinks.

This deal is available both on Christmas Eve and Day. a W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs310 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house drinks, Dhs650 bubbles. Tel: (0)2 656 0000. garageabudhabi.com

The festive edition of the Eat, Play, Laugh features all the usual wonderful favourites such as seafood stations, Indian tandoors, Asian counters, Malaysian cuisine, plus turkey, Christmas pudding and mulled wine. a Marriott Hotel Downtown Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 4pm, from Dhs275 to Dhs425.

Tel: (0)2 3047777. marriottdowntown abudhabilife.com

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Graphos Social Kitchen Our ‘brunch of the month’ hosts a special Christmas Day brunch with over 10 live stations and a dedicated activity zone for children.

Come dressed as your favourite characters of Christmas for the chance to win prizes. a Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs429 with soft drinks, Dhs549 with house drinks, Dhs649 bubbly. Tel: (0)2 2086900. dineatgraphos@hilton.com

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Giornette Upgrade your Christmas gastronomy with the festive edition of Giornette’s wildly popular Chef ’s brunch. We’re talking Wagyu beef, foie gras, Asian food, pasta cooked à la minute, fresh seafood, healthy selections, and there’s turkey, too. Old mate white beard will be here, too. a The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs450 with soft drinks, Dhs650 with house drinks, Dhs750 for premium bubbles. Tel: (02) 818 8888, @ritzcarltonabudhabi

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Grills@Chill’O Brunch alfresco this festive season at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche where there’s more than chesnuts roasting on an open fire. Diners can get stuck into a rotisserie-focused international buffet with live grills, roasted veal leg, prime ribs, honey glazed turkey and Atlantic salmon. Pair your meal with house drinks or bubbles, enjoy live music and, if you’ve sleighed the good behaviour this year, you might get some one-on-one time with Mr Kringle. Offer available both Christmas Eve and Day. a Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi. 12.30pm to 4pm.

Dhs255 with soft drinks, Dhs350 with house drinks, Dhs395 bubbles, Dhs95 children from seven to 12 years. Tel: (0)2 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

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Nahaam & Sole Choose between Nahaam serving casual classic favourites by the pool or Sole offering Italian delicacies. They’ll be performances and a Santa visit. a Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Dhs525 with soft drinks, Dhs625 with house drinks, Dhs725 with bubbly, Dhs200 for children six to 12 years, under sixes free. @conradetihadtowers

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Oak Room 18

Khayal The Yuletide brunch at Khayal is always an absolute cracker. Leap (red)nose first into the festive feels with a Santa’s sack proportioned buffet selection, six live stations and a meet and greet from the executive branch of the North Pole’s toy logistics and distrubution team. a Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Khalifa City, Dhs299 with soft drinks, add Dhs149 for house drinks (or Dhs199 for bubbles), kids under 12 Dhs99. Tel: (0)2 201 4131. marriott.com

The Oak Room is hosting a very British Christmas, with added fine dining. Pick your three-hour session from the frosty window of 1pm to 5pm, and for anybody not ready to remove the paper crowns just yet, Annex is throwing a three-hour festive sunset session with bites, bubbles and bountiful beverages for Dhs368, including house drinks and bubbles. a The Abu Dhabi Edition, Dhs345 with soft drinks, Dhs495 with house drinks, Dhs645 bubbles, after brunch package Dhs248 (soft) and Dhs368 (house). Tel: (0)2 208 0000. editionhotels.com What’s On_19

CHRISTMAS day 26

Urban Kitchen 22

PJ O’Reilly’s Irish Pub Pull a craic-er this December 25 and spend your big day the Galway, ahem, way. Head to PJ O’Reilly’s for a big dose of festive cheer in the form of a Christmas version of their Hogfest brunch, featuring a traditional Irish feast, mulled grape and a soundtrack of sing-a-long classics (if Fairy Tale of New York doesn’t get at least one encore, we’re throwing tantrums). a Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, Dec 24 and 24 (7pm to 10pm) and Dec 25 (1pm to 4pm). Dhs149 soft, Dhs225 house, Dhs295 premium. Tel: (800) 101 101. @pjsabudhabi

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Saadiyat Beach Golf Course If a partridge in a pear tree is not the only birdie on your mind at Christmas, why not hit up the idyllic green scenes of Saadiyat Beach Golf Course for your big day brunch? It’s tee-ing things off with a festive carvery buffet, house drinks, live performers and a number of children’s activities to keep the little ones amused. a Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, 12pm to 3.30pm. Dhs285 with soft drinks, Dhs399 with house drinks, Dhs143 children from seven to 12, under sixes free.

Tel: (0)56 660 8780. @saadiyatbeachgolfclub

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The Foundry There’s a lot at stake when organising a festive feast, so why not turn the tables and have a lot of steak instead? The Foundry is dishing up prime beef cuts alongside the more traditional turkey, saltbush lamb and of course all the trimmings at its Christmas brunch.

Take things even further off-piste with the venue’s oyster bar, foie gras station, poke bar, seafood collection, and cheese vault. a Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi, 12.30pm to 4.30pm, Dhs325 with soft drinks, Dhs480 with house drinks, Dhs655 bubbles, Dhs110 children from six to 12. Tel: (0)2 818 4888. tsogosun.com

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Turquoise Christmas is traditionally a time associated with family, but if you can’t be with the whole gang this year, gather those that are near and dear, and head to the beach. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island’s refined all day diner is throwing a shoreline seasonal banquet alongside live cooking stations, a sushi bar, fresh oysters and outdoor grills. a Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, 1pm to 4.30pm, Dhs649.

Tel: (02) 492 2222, reservation. saadiyat@rixos.com

Hop aboard the festive gravy train at the What’s On awardwinning Urban Kitchen this Chrimbo for a brunch packed with festive favourites. Top up the Yuletide spirit with a midday welcome drink at Orchid Lounge, then Ho-HoHo its off to Urban Kitchen we go to take your tastebuds on a whistle stop Santa present world tour, with all the many, varied international flavours of Urban Kitchen’s jolly brunch. a Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Al Muroor Road, 12.30 to 4pm, Dec 25, Dhs270 soft, Dhs400 house, Dhs99 for children ages 7 to 12. Tel: (0)2 698 8137. dusit.com

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Yas Links Abu Dhabi At Yas Links Abu Dhabi, the team are focused on showing the whole family a good time, with festive eats, kiddie treats and Yuletide beats. a Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs250 with soft drinks, Dhs399 with house drinks, Dhs143 for children. Tel: (0)2 404 3077. @yaslinksad

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What’s On_21

Turkey takeaways 1

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel Offering up turkeys to suit families either small or large, stuff yourself on roast potatoes, mixed vegetables, cranberry sauce and more from the comfort of your home. As a gift, Ingredients restaurant is throwing in a free bottle of grape and stollen.

Options range from a 5kg to 6kg turkey for Dhs650 or an 8kg to 10kg turkey for Dhs750. a Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel.

Tel: (056) 188 7700. anantara. com

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Rosewood Abu Dhabi Set the table with a homemade roasted turkey, your favourite style of potatoes (au gratin, roasted, or mashed) and a selection of roasted vegetables.

The turkey costs Dhs575, which includes two sides and two sauces. a Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island. Tel: (02) 813 5550. @osewoodabudhabi

2

Marriott Al Forsan Impress your loved ones with traditional British meats and all the trimmings from roasted butternut squash, Cajun sweet potatoes, honey glazed roasted root veg, traditional bread stuffing and more. Pick up from the Lobby Lounge.

Options range from a 6kg turkey for Dhs749, 8kg turkey for Dhs849 or a 10kg turkey for Dhs949. a Marriott Al Forsan, Khalifa City. Available from December 6 to January 7. Tel: (02) 201 4000. @marriottalforsan

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Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Feast on a whole roasted festive turkey served with chestnut stuffing, seasonal veggies, carrots, potatoes, cranberry sauce, and gravy.

There are baked treats for your loved ones, too. Place your order 48 hours in advance.

Order a 5kg to 6kg turkey for Dhs499. Purchase additional sides starting from Dhs35. a Sheikh Khalifa Highway, E12, Tel: (0)2 499 8100. troonabudhabi.com

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Yas Links Abu Dhabi Similar to its Saadiyat neighbour, enjoy a seasoned whole toast turkey, including chestnut stuffing, seasonal veggies, carrots, potatoes, cranberry sauce, and gravy. Throw in some Christmas baked treats for the complete festive treat. Place your order 48 hours in advance.

Order a 5kg to 6kg turkey for Dhs499. Purchase additional sides for Dhs35. a Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)2 404 3077. troonabudhabi.com

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A MAGICAL FESTIVE SEASON A world of elegance and wonder awaits you this festive season at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche with exciting celebrations that showcase the best of the holiday spirit.

GRILLS@CHILL’O

Starting from AED 255 per person AED 95 for kids 7 to 12 years SILK & SPICE

DECEMBER 24TH

DECEMBER 25TH

DECEMBER 31ST

Brunch & Dinner Buffet 12:30 PM to 4 PM 7 PM to 11 PM

Brunch 12:30 PM to 4 PM

Dinner Buffet 7 PM to 10:30 PM

Special Menu Lunch & Dinner

Special Menu Lunch & Dinner

Special Menu Lunch & Dinner

Starting from AED 255 per person AED 95 For Kids 7 to 12 years JAZZ & FIZZ

Starting from AED 150 per person

FESTIVE HAMPER

From November 26th to December 26th Price starting from AED 425 *24-hour prior booking required

Santa’s Party 8 PM to 2:30 AM

New Year’s Eve Party 8 PM to 2:30 AM

FESTIVE STAYCATION OFFERS

Make this a warm and merry holiday with a stay at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche.

Starting from AED 2022

Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Corniche Road East, Capital Plaza Complex, P.O. Box 44966 - Abu Dhabi - UAE +971 2 8137777 | H7507@sofitel.com | www.sofitelabudhabicorniche.com

18 TO 16 ER B EM EC D

Some of the biggest names in tennis are in the capital for the 13th edition of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship, including Britain’s shining new star 24_What’s On

TA L K O F T H E T E N N I S T O W N

I

t says something about Emma Raducanu’s status in the world right now that the announcement of her appearance at the upcoming Mubadala World Tennis Championship garnered more column inches than news of Rafael Nadal’s attendance at the Abu Dhabi tournament.

Even the presence of a 20-time Grand Slam winner who could one day become the sport’s greatest, has been somewhat drowned out with the exciting news that the 19-year-old Raducanu would play the UAE capital for the first time this December.

Since her astonishing win at the US Open in September when, aged 18, she became the first qualifier, male or female, to win a Grand Slam in the Open era, the youngest Grand

Slam winner since Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon in 2004, and the first Brit to win a women’s Grand Slam singles title since Virginia Wade at Wimbledon in 1977, Raducanu’s life has, to put it mildly, taken a new direction.

There was the Met Gala in New York at which she wore a gown by Chanel, then the world premiere of the James Bond flick at the Royal Albert Hall in London when she dazzled in Dior. Raducanu, who just turned 19, played tennis with Kate Middleton in front of a swarm of press photographers and later inked a deal to be the face of luxury jewellery brand Tiffany and Co. Inevitably, a story on the photogenic player soon followed in the glossy pages of Vogue magazine.

What’s On_25

TA L K O F T H E T E N N I S T O W N

THE COMPLETE LINE-UP FEMALE PLAYER FIELD

Raducanu’s career earnings stood at around the nottoo-shabby $300,000 mark before the US Open but after her historic win over Leylah Fernandez, Raducanu departed Flushing Meadows with not only the trophy and a new global army of fans, but also a cheque for $2.5m.

Raducanu’s age, her ability to speak English, Romanian and Mandarin, and her arrival on the scene just as former great, Serena Williams, fades, are all seen as key factors why the British player could become the next household name of world tennis.

But, of course, in order to do that, Raducanu must keep winning tournaments, something the one-time queen of the court, Martina Navratilova, believes is highly possible. “A star is born,” said the legendary winner of 18 Grand Slams after Raducanu’s US Open win. “It’s ridiculous how well she has done.”

Another Queen, Elizabeth II, sent her congratulations and called Raducanu’s win “a remarkable achievement,” while the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge labelled the triumph “historic.”

In her first match at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi this month, the 21st world ranked Raducanu will face 2020 Olympic champion Belinda Bencic, the world number 17, in a rematch of their quarter-final at the US Open. John Lickrish is CEO of event organiser Flash Entertainment and said the encounter is “set to be the most intriguing women’s match in the championship’s history.”

See you all at the courts.

26_What’s On

Emma Raducanu

Belinda Bencic

GREAT BRITAIN Current World Ranking: World No.21 Fast fact: Victory at the US Open earned her the British No.1 ranking

SWITZERLAND Current World Ranking: World No.17 Fast fact: At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Bencic won gold in singles and silver in doubles with partner Viktorija Golubic

MALE PLAYER FIELD

Rafael Nadal

Dominic Thiem

Casper Ruud

SPAIN Current World Ranking: World No.5 Fast fact: The defending champ of Mubadala World Tennis Championship

AUSTRIA Current World Ranking: World No.12 Fast fact: This marks his third appearance at MWTC

NORWAY Current World Ranking: World No.8 Fast fact: Ruud is the first Norwegian to win an ATP title HOT OFF THE PRESS

FINAL PLAYER ANNOUNCED!

Denis Shapovalov

Andrey Rublev

Andy Murray

CANADA Current World Ranking: World No.19 Fast fact: Shapovalov’s idol growing up was tennis ace Roger Federer

RUSSIA Current World Ranking: World No.5 Fast fact: Rublev defeated countryman Medvedev at the 2021 Cincinnati finals

GREAT BRITAIN Current World Ranking: World No.134 Fast fact: Murray won the inaugural MWTC in 2009 beating Nadal in the finals

OFF-COURT ACTION

Four reasons why the Mubadala World Tennis Championship 2021 is so much more than a tennis championship

1

The Tennis Village is enormous

3

Food trucks create a foodie festival vibe

This year’s Tennis Village provides unrivalled access to top players with exclusive meet and greets, question and answer sessions, autograph signings, and sponsored activations.

Look out for the fleet of food trucks courtesy of local and regional brands, plus there are plenty of open picnic areas where fans can sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere.

4

Player clinics

Top players will give spectators a rare opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade up close.

2

The Mubadala Interactive Zone is back

Make sure you visit the Mubadala Interactive Zone, where everyone can take part in a variety of fun tennis-themed activities to win unbeatable prizes.

December 16 to 18 a Mubadala World Tennis Championship, International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi, adults Dhs100, children Dhs50. mubadalawtc.com

What’s On_27

YA S A L A M A F T E R R A C E C O N C E R T S D U R I N G # A B U D H A B I G P

THE YASALAM AFTER-RACE CONCERTS HEADLINERS PRODUCED BY FLASH ENTERTAINMENT

A TOP-SELLING US SINGER, A BRITISH RAPPER, A GRAMMY-WINNING SCOT, PLUS A LEGENDARY ROCK BAND ARE YOUR ENTERTAINMENT AT THIS YEAR’S F1 WEEKEND

Y

asalam, the capital’s favourite music festival, held around the highly anticipated Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021, returns for 2021 to the stunning Etihad Park. The adrenaline-fuelled concert series is back with a captivating calendar of world-

class entertainment across four action-packed days from December 9 to 12. Yasalam 2021, the 12th edition of this hugely popular festival, will accelerate the excitement, bringing together the best of motorsport and music.

See you at the start line…

DEC 9

7

KHALID

His 2021 summer single, New Normal, made its debut when Khalid performed it for the crew of Richard Branson’s maiden Virgin Galactic space flight upon their successful landing.

Eight things you need to know about the US singer

8

★

His favourite road trip song?

Dreams by Fleetwood Mac.

1

He was named one of Time’s Most Influential People in 2019.

2

★

He released his first single, Location on SoundCloud in 2016 while still at high school – it went five-times platinum.

3

★

Kylie Jenner played a key part in accelerating Khalid’s rise when she shared his song Location on Snapchat. The result: 280 million plays on YouTube.

4

He’s been nominated for six Grammys and has won six Billboard Music Awards, three American Music Awards, and an MTV Video Music Award.

5

★

Khalid, 23, has collaborated with big stars such as Normani, Halsey and Benny Blanco, Billie Eilish and Shawn Mendes.

6

★

In 2020, Khalid was named the youngest artist to surpass 15 billion streams on Spotify.

What’s On_29

C DE

10

STORMZY

How the big-hearted British rapper is using his platform for good

W

ith hit albums, shelves of awards, a bank balance reported to be in the region of Dhs95m, legions of devoted fans and a career-high gig at Glastonbury already in the bag, Stormzy should be lowering his six-feet-five frame into an armchair and reflecting on the glory of his achievements. But that’s not his style.

Fuelled by a desire to do good and help others (just look at his scholarship programme that funds black students’ tuition at Cambridge University), Stormzy refuses to rest and feels a duty as a role model.

“Being so championed by my community, I feel like everyone’s put me on this pedestal, everyone’s put me on top of the world,” the grime artist admitted to Time magazine. “I know it’s my purpose to just shine a light where I can, do something where I can, just whatever I can, in whatever way, shape or form.”

Born in south London 28 years ago, Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari

30_What’s On

Owuo Jr. announced his talent through a series of YouTube videos. His breakthrough album Gang Signs & Prayer arrived in 2017, followed by Heavy is the Head two years later. His machine gun delivery and socially conscious lyrics that highlighted uncomfortable truths to do with inequality in society and the inadequacies of politicians propelled him to the top table of British music. A dry wit didn’t hurt either.

“I’m intelligent,” he grins. “That’s why there’s always a bit of a smugness to me.”

His ambition was clear to see. “I find it strange and uncomfortable to aim for anything less than the greatest,” said Stormzy in 2017. “That doesn’t even make sense for me. If I was going to be an engineer or I was going to be a baker or I was going to be a fireman, why would I not aim to eventually be the greatest at my job?”

Quickly, Stormzy realised he had a platform from which he could help. When he admitted to suffering from depression in a TV interview in 2017, it was seen as a huge step forward in removing the stigma

“I AM STILL LEARNING HOW TO BE A MAN AND STILL FIGURING OUT HOW TO GROW INTO THE PERSON I NEED TO BE” of talking about mental health among young men.

“For me, it was a realisation of how fragile we are as humans in the most beautiful way possible,” said Stormzy of his depressive periods. “I feel like I always come across confidently and happy, and I’ve always made sure that I don’t promote [the] negative. I just present myself in a positive way so I can spread that. So people will be looking at me, thinking I don’t go through nothing. So for me to let people know, ‘No, I do. I do go through that’. I thought that was important for people to know that.”

This kind of disarming honesty, described in such articulate detail, is why Stormzy has made such an impact – both musically and culturally. “I’ve made a body of work that is an honest reflection of my truth and who I am,” he said last year. “I have poured my soul into it. Truth is a universal thing. It allows people to connect to it.” There’s no doubt fans in Abu Dhabi will feel that connection when he performs this month. Thrilling music, razor sharp lyrics, and a massive stage presence are what you see on the surface at a Stormzy gig, but underneath, there is human depth.

“I am still learning how to be a man and still figuring out how to grow into the person I need to be,” he wrote on Instagram. “But within all of that confusion and all the juggling of being a human and trying to be a superhuman – I have purpose.”

YA S A L A M A F T E R R A C E C O N C E R T S D U R I N G # A B U D H A B I G P

DEC 11

LEWIS CAPALDI L Buckle up for a wild night with the Scottish singer

ewis Capaldi’s PR team must spend their days shrugging their shoulders in powerless resignation as their superstar client tweets another one liner mocking his abs, proclaiming himself to be as handsome as Shawn Mendes, or posting selfies on the toilet at the Grammy Awards.

If you want a polished pop star with a Dhs500 haircut, white teeth and a mediatrained approach to interviews, then Capaldi is not your guy.

Remember, this is a man who called himself “the Scottish Beyonce” on a billboard in London.

“The music should be serious, and everything else should be fun because it is fun,” explains Capaldi, who logs another extraordinary feat in his short career by headlining an F1 gig in Abu Dhabi this month.

It’s almost a year since the Someone You Loved singer first played the UAE, delighting

around 3,000 fans at the Al Majaz Amphitheatre in Sharjah. This month, the good-humoured Scot is back, playing to a vast Formula One after-party crowd, who will be treated to plenty of what he calls ‘blether’ in between a set of heartfelt songs that have impressed the likes of Sir Elton John.

Capaldi has spent 2021 polishing his sophomore album, taking the radical step of cancelling live shows to focus on the record. “I really want to make sure whatever I put out next is the absolute best it can be, partly for my own sanity, because I’m going to have to sing these songs every night for the next few years on tour, but ultimately for all of you who made the first album everything it was,” he explained. “Despite having all this extra time to write, all the Covid restrictions have made it harder to go and record stuff I’ve been working

on or even be around all the people I loved working with on the first album.”

When it arrives, the album will be a follow-up to his 2019 debut Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent, which enabled Capaldi to sell out a UK arena tour before the record even came out. “You cannot fathom some of the stuff when it is going on,” he says of his astonishing – and rapid – success. “It’s just daft.

I sometimes worry that people think I’m used to it. But I’m not. It’s wild.”

When asked to pinpoint why his songs have made such a mark on fans, Capaldi is mystified. “I’ve got no clue. ‘What right do I have to be playing arenas?’ is what goes through my head. Impostor syndrome.

I’m not better than any of these people, I’m not better at writing songs or singing.”

After smashing away at drums and guitars aged two, the now 25-yearold Glaswegian learned his craft singing in pubs, developing a strong, raspy voice that many liken to Joe Cocker. He was discovered by a music manager on SoundCloud and in 2017 released an EP which secured him a supporting slot on tours with ex-One Direction member Niall Horan and later Sam Smith.

But it was in 2018 when things escalated and Someone You Loved became Capaldi’s breakthrough single, hogging the number one spot in the UK charts for seven weeks. American audiences then helped the song reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In 2020, Capaldi received a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year (Someone You Loved) and four Brit Award nominations, eventually winning two for Song of the Year (Someone You Loved) and Best New Artist.

“You can’t accept this as normality,” says Capaldi.

“This is very weird. I’m so convinced it’s not going to last, this surely cannot go on.”

Perhaps Capaldi should be prepared for the eventuality that it might indeed go on for quite some time.

What’s On_31

YA S A L A M A F T E R R A C E C O N C E R T S D U R I N G # A B U D H A B I G P

C DE

12

FOO FIGHTERS:

BY THE NUMBERS

The American rockers to close Abu Dhabi F1 with an epic rock show

27

The band was founded 27 years ago in 1994 in Seattle, Washington by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl as a one-man project following the death of Kurt Cobain.

6

32_What’s On

There are six current members in The Foo Fighters – lead vocalist Dave Grohl, plus Pat Smear and Chris Shiflett (guitar and backing vocals), Nate Mendel (bass), Taylor Hawkins (drums, percussion) and Rami Jaffee (keyboard).

1

Their performance at the Yasalam after-race concerts marks their debut concert in the MENA region, and caps a run of sold-out arena dates this year.

114

The apartment number Grohl and Kurt Cobain lived together in, which Grohl once described as ‘chaos’. The full address was 114 North Pear Street in Seattle.

12

They’ve won 12 Grammy awards, holding the record for most wins in the Best Rock Album category.

409

Rolling Stone published its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time back in September, with Foo Fighters’ smash hit Everlong taking the 409th spot. Should have been far higher up the list, if you ask us.

10

They’ve released a whopping 10 studio albums, five of which reached number one in the UK album charts, including their latest album Medicine at Midnight.

PRESENTS

AFTER-RACE CONCERTS

SUN 12 DEC

ETIHAD PARK

YAS ISLAND

NEW MOVES EXCLUSIVELY FOR #ABUDHABIGP RACE TICKET HOLDERS

PRODUCED BY

OFFICIAL MUSIC APP PARTNER

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE PARTNER

OFFICIAL ONLINE MEDIA PARTNER

OFFICIAL VENUE PARTNER

YA S A L A M A F T E R R A C E C O N C E R T S D U R I N G # A B U D H A B I G P

GET YOUR TICKETS Feel the noise at Etihad Park...

GOLDEN CIRCLE UPGRADES

The sun may set on the F1 action each evening but the fun doesn’t stop there.

Yasalam After-Race concerts are exclusive to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix tickets holders, and prices start at Dhs660.

All ticketholders will have access to the Thursday concert, headlined by Khalid.

Single-day ticketholders will have access to the concert on the day for which they have a Grand Prix ticket. Those with two-day tickets get access to the Saturday and Sunday concerts as well as Thursday.

Three-day ticket holders can see all the concerts.

Following recent government updates, Etihad Park – the largest outdoor venue in the Middle East – will return to full capacity for the Yasalam After-Race concerts, marking the first event to be hosted inside the exciting new venue.

“We’re thrilled to bring world-class entertainment and our Yasalam After-Race concerts back in style with this year’s line-up of global superstars. It further highlights the international celebration of culture that we experience regularly here in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, and we look forward to welcoming the world to Yas Island.”

– John Lickrish, CEO of Flash Entertainment 34_What’s On

Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021 ticket holders are exclusively eligible for Golden Circle upgrades, providing the best access to After-Race Concerts, with a fasttrack entry, dedicated beverage points and front-row access to your favourite artists.

Upgrades start at just Dhs195 (Khalid), Dhs295 (Stormzy), Dhs295 (Lewis Capaldi), Dhs395 (Foo Fighters), and Dhs945 for Golden Circle upgrades to all artist concerts. To purchase your upgrade, call: 800 (YAS) 927.

q For more details, visit yasalam.ae

DECEMBER 9 TO 11

SIX REASONS WHY FUTR WORLD IS AN UNMISSABLE ABU DHABI EXPERIENCE

ith event capacities back up to 100 per cent in Abu Dhabi, the city’s upcoming FUTR World is going to be a capital extravaganza.

As part of its edge-surfing manifesto, FUTR World brings three distinct experiences to Abu Dhabi: there’s FUTR Festival – an ensemble of huge name music acts; FUTR Live – bringing world famous regional firsts like the Museum of Ice Cream; and FUTR Summit – a collection of talks from some of the finest minds in retail, business innovation and entrepreneurship. Read on for more…

36_What’s On

1

It has a banging soundtrack Headliners for FUTR Festival include rap and afrobeat icon, WizKid (whose recent Essence ft Justin Beiber & Tems was the first hit by a solo African artist to chart in the top 10 of the US Billboard Hot 100). He’ll be joined by talented singer/songwriter Alicai Harley, amongst other big hitters.

WizKid

Alicai Harley

2

It’s extreme

Red Bull BMX rider Viki Gomez will be putting on a dazzling extreme sports display as part of FUTR Live. Plus, catch a discussion on ‘Breaking Boundaries’ from homegrown UAE figure skating pioneer Zahra Lari. There’s also a chance to get a free makeover from Ruuby, London’s award-winning beauty delivery service.

It’s insanely Instagrammable Take, for example, the installation by The Museum of Ice Cream (One of 15 immersive experiences). This NYC resident will be making its Abu Dhabi debut, and it is a double scoop of Insta-candy.

4

5

It offers exciting food adventures FUTR Tastebud has a range of innovative food brands and concepts to wrap your mouth around. Meet taste creators such as MOB Kitchen, the London-based food platform offering convenient and accessible ultra-tasty recipe ideas. Pitch them questions, taste their creations and grab some pro tips from their inspirational story. You’ll also find food truck experiences from the region’s most talented homegrown chefs creating an exclusive ‘FUTR dish’ never served before. You can also become one of the first people to enjoy an exclusive all new flavour from Baskin Robbins.

3

It’s big on fashion FUTR trendsetting DNA runs through all of its events. That’s part of what it is. But the demonstration of that on-mode positioning is possibly most clear in its fashion installation.

This includes a larger-than-life walk in wardrobe, displaying sustainable material led by the queen of fabrics, Tiffany Loy; plus a smart mirror and AR experience. If you think that’s innovative, wait until you experience the beauty, wellness, food, fitness, entertainment, retail and travel showcases.

It’s influential You can meet international content creators, including beauty star Abby Roberts and Nintendo Girl, who have managed to rack up over 20 million TikTok followers between them.

You can also interact with, and gain insight from, Grace Beverley, Hadia Ghaleb, Darin Al Bayed, and the UAE’s very own Lowi Sahi.

6

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Visitors must show an Alhosn Green Pass (which itself requires the individual to be fully vaccinated), and have had a negative PCR result within 96 hours of accessing the venue.

DECEMBER 9 TO 11 Al Saadiyat, from Dhs129. tickets. virginmegastore.me; futrworld.com

a Manarat

What’s On_37

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 43

Big brunchin’

What’s good at Graphos?

TORI NO SU p41 WHAT’S ON THE MENU p44 What’s On_39

C O N S U M E

EAT // NEWS

The perfect pairing Sacci Abu Dhabi launches new grape and cheese night

Sky high tea at Conrad

You most likely know Sacci Abu Dhabi in Westin Abu Dhabi for serving up one of the most delicious pizzas in the capital. But for a variation on its delicious cheesy goodness, why not try the new cheese and wine evening that takes place every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm. The deal includes a bubbling pot of cheese fondue, plus pizza or pasta prepared by Chef Giovanni and your choice of red or white, all for Dhs159. a Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Wed 7pm to 11pm. Dhs159 per person. Tel: (0)2 616 9999. sacciabudhabi.com

Acrobatics, scones and a 50-layered cake to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee

‘U

p in the Air’ is a special afternoon tea experience performed in the Conrad’s lofty lobby. The acrobatic affair – available Thursday to Saturday – is a cirque d’extravaganza, featuring world-class gymnasts to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee. Its edible elements include slices pulled from a vertiginous 50-layered cake, dainty afternoon tea staples such as warm British scones, and tuna sandwiches and lemon-infused crème

fraiche with caviar pearls. In accordance with high tea tradition, Up in the Air does not neglect its sweet offerings, either.

You’ll find a troupe of irresistible desserts, including a tangy lemon and raspberry roulade, pistachio panna cotta, and of course a tea collection that adds the final slice of authenticity to the experience.

Until December 8 a Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Thur to Sat 1pm and 3.15pm, Dhs325 for adults.

Tel: (02) 811 5666. hilton.com

Turkey takeaway

Christmas all wrapped up thanks to PJ O’Reilley’s If you’ve been tasked with organising a festive get together, why not take the pressure off cooking by ordering in your very own takeaway turkey? PJ O’Reilley’s looks mighty fine, too. Order your turkey and get all the trimmings such as chipolata stuffing, candied yams, root vegetables, bacon roasted Brussel sprouts, spuds and cranberry sauce, plus a traditional Christmas pudding.

December 5 to 30 a Order your via 800 101 101 or email restaurants.lrmad@lemeridien.com. pjspubabudhabi.com

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C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

TORI NO SU

Setting suitably high standards in Japanese fine dining at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

A

little Japanese lesson to start: Tori No Su literally translates to ‘bird’s nest’. It’s pretty apt, then, that Tori No Su is nestled in the corner of the skyscraping shards that comprise Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers.

Cool and slick, the recently revamped destination is a fun mix of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Classic sushi and ramen dishes appear alongside contemporary flavour combinations, while the elegant dining room is jazzed up with neon light features (you won’t be able to resist getting a shot with the luminous wings) and chic, yet casual staff donning colourful cartoon T-shirts and swanky ‘mom-style’ jeans.

We’re immediately impressed by the vast array of starters and it’s difficult to decide which little morsels to choose. However, realising that there are only four main course options confirms our feeling that this is a spot to share a number of light bites, rather than have your own hearty dish.

Not feeling quite adventurous enough to try the sea urchin Wagyu roll, we start with some beautifully presented sashimi and sushi.

The rounded robata chicken skewers and mighty shrimp tempura are expertly made. We could order several rounds of small bites and call it a night here. Indeed, the fact that the grilled sweetcorn is one of our top picks, just goes to show what superb ingredients and immense skill goes into each recipe.

The charred broccolini salad is delightful, although we wish we had ordered it along with our mains. Cooked al dente and covered in a creamy sesame dressing, it would have been a brilliant accompaniment to the chicken teriyaki and miso black cod. The delicate white fish of the latter is so soft it practically

melts away in your mouth.

It’s surprising to hear that the yuzu miso burrata is a bestseller. But, then again, what UAE menu doesn’t feature at least one appearance from this cheese?

Admittedly, the Japanese-inspired crème brûlée is a totally divine and caramel-like conclusion, so we’re not adverse to the less authentic dishes. Meanwhile, the mochi, served dramatically impaled on a thick metal skewer, comes with a theatrical trail of dry ice that spills all over the table. We find it all hugely entertaining and the indulgent little ice creams are gorgeous and creamy.

New head chef Yosuke Matsuoka needn’t worry about living up to his predecessor. In fact, his fresh and innovative approach to dining could bring this hotspot a whole legion of new fans. a Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Wed to Mon 7pm to midnight. Tel: (0)28115555. @torinosu.conradetihadtowers RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� A Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

What’s On_41

31st December 7PM - 12AM 3-hours experience

25 December 12:30PM - 4PM th

EAT

Package

AED 275

including soft drinks

PLAY

LAUGH

AED 395

AED 425

Package including house beverages

+971 2 304 7777

Package including Italian bubbles

ABU DHABI

MEET THE BARTENDER

CHAML PERERA Bar supervisor at Bab Al Qasr Hotel

There are three tricks to getting served quickly at the bar. One: know everything that you want to order. Two: be consistently polite and respectful to the bartender.

Three: bottles are faster than tap.

The Rosé Lounge Bar’s signature drink is called Colombo 9. It’s one of our most popular cocktails, too.

We just have so much to offer guests here. There are countless variations of bar mixology, with new flavours, textures and presentations to enjoy.

Our grape collection is second to none, with world class rosé’s to sample, each with their own diverse, aromatic taste.

The key ingredients to creating a great bar? It needs to be visually attractive by design and have a wide range of offerings behind the bar, with a talented, guest-orientated bartender serving.

One drink that I don’t really enjoy making? I’d have to say a mojito.

I do enjoy creating exciting mocktails for our guests. My favourite is the virgin passionfruit daiquiri. a Bab Al Qasr, daily 5pm to

1.30am. Tel: (0)2 2053003. babalqasr.com

BRUNCH MONTH O F

T H E

Graphos Social Kitchen A classic brunch with fun twists at the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

T

he international buffet brunch is an Abu Dhabi staple, and it’s a formula that works even better when the weather is fit for alfresco dining.

So, we’re super excited to try the new Market Brunch at Graphos Social Kitchen, and we quickly realise that it ticks all the essential boxes.

The food is top quality, the staff are friendly and efficient, there’s a singer (good but not too loud) and the terrace, found right by the palm-fringed pool, is pretty and pleasant.

What it’s not is busy. However, here’s hoping that once the rest of Yas Bay opens up, that’ll change. The handful of fellow diners that were there, looked like they were enjoying it just as much as we were, and so there was still a lively easygoing vibe.

Based on an east-meetswest concept that feature countless different dishes, it’s still quite compact and easy to navigate. The tuk tuks serving quirky mixed concoctions are a cute touch, while the grape-tasting experience makes the house beverage package tremendous value.

There’s choice of colourful salads, creative home baked breads and nibbles

that are great for sharing while you plan your tactics for the rest of the afternoon.

This includes Arabic mezze, tempura, pizza and crispy deep-fried maki rolls and other sushi varieties.

The manakish station is one of our highlights, as are the expertly made Indian curries, the giant roaming paella pan, and the outdoor grill station. Here, you’ll find barbecued salmon, jumbo prawns and kingfish, plus plenty to satisfy meat eaters.

The dessert selection is just as expansive. Chocolate fountains, homemade crêpes, chocolates and delicate cakes join a cool rainbow-themed kids’ section. For us, the freshly made vanilla ice cream is the best of the lot, and the coffee-based mixed drinks provide the perfect conclusion to a lovely, relaxing Friday spent grazing.

Ideal for big groups and special celebrations, Graphos Social Kitchen will definitely keep the competition on their toes. a Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island. Fri 1pm to 4.30pm. Dhs269 with soft drinks, Dhs379 with house drinks, Dhs499 premium bubbly. Tel: (0)2 208 6900. hilton.com What’s On_43

TURTLE (BAY) POWER Here’s a look at what happened at our last What’s On The Menu? supper club There are few greater pleasures in life than picking up the fresh fragrance of flame-grilled fare on salt sea air. Ok, maybe if it happened whilst we were overlooking the beach of a five-star resort on a desert island, we guess that would actually be better. And if we got to take our bestie.

In those unlikely circumstances, we would agree that it might be possible to improve on a timeless classic.

What an incredible stroke of luck then, that all this wishlisting above is essentially the barebones of what happened during October’s What’s On The Menu? supper club.

Some twenty-strong Abu Dhabi residents joined us at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas’ beautiful Turtle Bay Bar & Grill for a specially

curated six-course menu featuring a range of surf, turf and grilled delicacies that have helped make Turtle Bay one of the most coveted restaurants in the capital and the worthy winner of the Middle East’s Luxury Seafood Restaurant gong at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2021.

Highlights enjoyed from this ‘especially for What’s On guests’ menu included a foie gras sumac terrine, poached seabass kiwi meuniere, Wagyu beef with panseared foie gras and potato millefeuille, with a lemongrass and kaffir lime crème brulee to finish.

Turn the page to find out how you can join the next supper club, taking place this month…

44_What’s On

JOIN US FOR A BAREFOOT SUPPER CLUB AT THE L OOP BEACH RESTAURANT & BAR Everyone loves dinner. But you know what everyone loves even more? An exclusive dinner – and a free one at that – which is why we love to host What’s On The Menu? – our fun supper club series that tours around the UAE, popping up at some of the country’s new or legendary spots.

Next month, we’re kicking off our shoes and heading onto the calm, white sandy beaches of Abu Dhabi to visit The Loop Restaurant & Bar, an alfresco restaurant on the shoreline of Bab Al Qasr.

Our guests will be encouraged to dine barefoot, their toes digging in the sand, as they dig into a specially curated menu featuring mussels in saffron sauce, and mains such as fruitti di mare, and rib eye steak accompanied by a range of sundowner sips and wine.

If this sounds right up your street, come and join us for a night under the stars, where romantic lighting and chill beats combine to create the perfect evening. RSVP now to bag an invite.

SIGN UP!

Tue 7pm, December 7 The Loop Beach Restaurant & Bar RSVP to taran.singh@ motivate.ae 46_What’s On

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A WONDERLAND OF FESTIVITIES Get together in the stunning setting of Sevilla for a festive brunch. Giving the classic Christmas feast an innovative modern twist, taste an array of European, Italian, and Asian influenced dishes with refreshing beverages complemented by an outdoor terrace for a celebration of merriment.

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Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a Division of National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels PO Box 38616, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. | T. +971 2 508 0555 | F. +971 2 508 0444 | E. info.alraha@danathotels.com | www.danathotels.com

ART + THEATRE + FILM + MUSIC

PA G E 50

UAE 50

Cultural events to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee FILM p52 REGIONAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT p54

THE AGENDA Our pick of the top culturerelated events this month that celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee

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

ABU DHABI /DIGITAL SHOW AND ART EXHIBITION/ Louvre Abu Dhabi will mark the country’s Golden Jubilee with a special display of artworks from the UAE, which highlight the unity of the Emirates, as well as a series of public events. Artworks from the UAE spanning ancient times to the present day will be showcased throughout the museum’s permanent galleries. Museumgoers will also be able to witness the iconic dome transformed into an audio-visual installation reflecting the birth and development of the UAE. Exhibitions ongoing until 2022 a Louvre Abu Dhabi, Dhs60. Tel: (0)2 6736 688. louvreabudhabi.ae 50_What’s On

Photo: Getty

Louvre Abu Dhabi

DUBAI /MUSEUM/

Etihad Museum Where better to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee than a museum dedicated to educating visitors about the country’s unification? Etihad Museum takes you on an inspiring journey to discover the UAE’s story. It’s located next to Union House where the

signing of the treaty took place in 1971.

You can watch raw footage from the past, read quotes from the Founding Fathers, and explore historical items, local art and sculptures .

Open daily 10am to 8pm a December 2nd Street. Dhs25 adults, Dhs10 students. Tel: (800) 332 22. etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae

CULTURE /MULTISENSORY EXHIBITION/

Dubai Opera Celebrate the UAE’s 50 years with an immersive, multi-media exhibition featuring 50 landscape paintings that pay tribute to the UAE’s rich history and natural beauty, Created

by Grammy-nominated composer and painter Ella Spira MBE, the 50 For 50 experience culminates with the world premiere screening of the Sisters Grimm film, Daughters of the Wind Overture, which features all 50 paintings sharing Dubai Opera’s Main Stage alongside former Royal Ballet ballerina Pietra De Mello-Pittman, and singers DB Gad and Madyan Hamza, singing in Arabic and English.

Until Dec 14 a Dubai Opera, 10am to 10pm, free. Tel: (0)4 440 8888. dubaiopera.com /OPERA/

Al Wasl Opera Expo 2020 Dubai is launching a landmark opera in collaboration with the Welsh National Opera (WNO) that honours thousands of years of UAE history, its achievements to date and its aspirations for the future.

December 16 to 19 a Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, 8pm, from Dhs300. Tel: (0)4 440 8888. dubaiopera.com /EXHIBITION/

IconiCity British artist Tom Butler, famous for his cool collages, is exhibiting in Mestaria Gallery.

At first glance, his work is just a representation of the Dubai skyline but on closer inspection, we will see details with a humorous narrative.

Until Dec 25 a Mestaria Gallery, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Sat to Thur 10am to 7pm, free. Tel: (0)4 379 0940. mestaria.art What’s On_51

CULTURE

FILM

Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures

NEW RELEASES

★★★★★ DIRECTOR: Lana Wachowski CAST: Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Neil Patrick Harris

The Matrix Resurrections An iconic action franchise returns

The first Matrix movie was a watershed moment in cinema. It snatched the concept of Cartesian dualism from the hands of philosophy lecturers, wrapped it in trenchcoats and sold it back to us with an evolutionary leap in CGI and visual storytelling. It was a masterpiece. The leads from the original, Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss, return, despite *spoiler* dying at the end of the last movie. In the trailer, Neo (Reeves) knocks back blue pills as prescribed by his shrink, played by Neil Patrick Harris. But after being freed from the shackles of virtual servitude, Neo resumes his rage against the machines. Can this movie live up to the original? On brand for the franchise, the trailer poses more questions than it answers. We skim across the surface of the film’s brooding metaverse like a stone hoiked across breakwater. You might feel like that’s a large spoonful of mangled analogy, but if you’ve been paying attention, you’ll know, there is no spoon…

52_What’s On

SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME

★★★★

DIRECTOR: Jon Watts CAST: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Alfred Molina, Benedict Cumberbatch This is it, Watts and Holland rounding off their MCU Spidey trilogy with what will almost certainly be an emotional ride through the fractal-fractured multiverse.

What we know: Zendaya is back as love interest MJ; Jacob Batalan is back as Peter’s BFF, Ned; Dr Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) features, presumably filling in for Tony Stark as mentor; and we know for sure the villainous quartet of Alfred Molina, Jamie Foxx, Thomas Haden Church and Rhys Ifans reprise their Spideyverse roles as Dr Octopus, Electro, Sandman and Lizard respectively. But what about these rumours of multiple Spideys? With a villain cast that ominous, Tom Holland could probably do with some web slinging support from Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield. It’s all very exciting and we cannot wait to see what director Watts has in store before his next Marvel foray with the comic book adaption, Fantastic Four.

SING 2

★★★★★ DIRECTOR: Garth Jennings CAST: Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton, Aside from the amazing cast list, the original animated Sing movie didn’t really have much going for it. Well, there was the cast and of course the incredible soundtrack.

Oh, and the humour was

Photo: 20th Century Studios

spot on. We also adored the heartwarming quest that drove the story. Then there was the characterisation, musical mash-ups, message and individual scene set pieces. Ok, look, we genuinely loved it, and the trailer for this followup film definitely seems to be leaning in the same direction. It’s coming from the team who created the Despicable Me series, who have form when it comes to sequels.

WEST SIDE STORY

★★★★★

Sing 2

Spider-Man: No Way Home

Juliet. West Side Story is an ode to a pair of star-crossed lovers, Tony (Ansel Elgort) and Maria (Rachel Zegler, this is her first feature film) from rival street gangs, the White Jets and Puerto Rican Sharks. If you know anything about the tale of Romeo and Juliet, you can probably guess the likelihood of this story having a happy ending. *clicks fingers sadly*.

HOUSE OF GUCCI

★★★★★

DIRECTOR: Ridley Scott CAST: Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Salma Hayek, Al Pacino, Jared Leto The tumultuous tale behind the production of this movie neatly parallels that of the story it’s telling. Work began back in 2006, with Ridley Scott locked in as director and Angelina Jolie and Leonardo DiCaprio rumoured to star. Three director swaps and multiple actor shifts later, Scott found himself back in charge of a cast that included Adam Driver playing Maurizio

Gucci, Lady Gaga as Patrizia Reggiani and a virtually unrecognisable Jared Leto as Paolo Gucci. The story is built around the real life family behind one of high fashion’s most powerful dynasties.

We’re robed in mink and whisked through three decades of love and revenge, passion amd betrayal, cat walks and Karama knockoffs, culminating in the tragic murder of Maurizio Gucci. From the trailer, the wardrobe collections look to be all you might hope for in a film about Gucci, and the cast is another glittering ensemble, with Lady Gaga in particular delivering some mesmerising lines.

Photo: MGM 2

Photo: Universal Pictures

West Side Story

Photo: Sony Pictures

DIRECTOR: Steven Spielberg CAST: Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Mike Faist Could it be? Yes it could.

Something’s coming.

Something good. *clicks fingers aggressively*. Yes the reboot/adaptation bandwagon energy is in full swing in 2021. This movie is a remake of a 1961 movie, which was based on a Broadway musical, that itself is loosely based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and

House of Gucci

What’s On_53

CULTURE

Reaching new heights Flash Entertainment continues its quest to champion regional music talent with its Regional Artist Spotlight. Next up: Tamtam

S

audi Arabian singer and songwriter Tamtam is based between Los Angeles and Riyadh. At just 13 years old, she relocated to California as her parents wished her to see the world through many different eyes. Since then, Tamtam has been channelling all her life experiences into her passion, becoming an emblematic bridge between the Middle East and the West through her passionate, honest and genre-defying music.

From helping promote the Saudi breast cancer awareness organisation founded by Princess Reema bin Bandar, to writing about being a female artist in Saudi, Tamtam continues to shed light on topics close to her heart…

How did you first get into music?

As a child, I was always listening to Western music.

At around 11, I discovered my own voice. I started taking voice lessons and joined in school musicals.

Then, during a summer in college, I met a family friend, Zahed Sultan. He’s a producer who I started to work with. That’s when I released my first song Little Girl.

How would you describe the music that you make?

I love making music that bridges the worlds of pop and hip hop with trap elements and Arabic instruments.

54_What’s On

MUSIC

Who are the artists, or people, who inspire you?

Some of the artists I’m really inspired by at the moment are Banks, Post Malone, Lana Del Rey, Aeris Roves, and Fairuz (always).

What are your latest musical accomplishments?

To name a few, releasing my single and video for Ismak, performing at Expo 2020 Dubai, and being a part of the XP music conference in Riyadh, taking place this month.

What is your creative process like?

I love to sit at the piano and write. When I first started writing and making music, I didn’t play any instruments.

I would just sing the words with melodies that came to my mind, and I recorded the ones I liked. Working in the studio with a producer is a bit of a different process.

They usually start the beat based on the vibe we want and the inspirations we play to each other, and then I write melodies over that.

What has been the biggest obstacle of your career?

Me being completely comfortable with who I am, and confidently sharing that with the world. It’s normal to have concerns about what others might say or feel, but I’ve worked on myself to focus on listening to my body and my gut, when it comes to making decisions. This has changed everything for me, and I hope my story can help people become comfortable with themselves. I know the world would be a better

“I’VE GROWN SO MUCH AS AN ARTIST AND I AM MORE AWARE OF HOW I WANT TO SAY WHAT I WANT TO SAY”

and more peaceful place if everyone paid attention to their intuitions.

Where have you performed and what have been your favourites?

Kuwait Rising was an amazing music festival I performed at. The energy was insane and the crowd were singing along, it was so beautiful. I’ve also performed at The Peppermint Club and Hotel Café in LA a few times – they were really fun. Performing at Expo 2020 Dubai this year was an incredible experience, too.

What are your latest releases?

My latest release Ismak is a song about accepting all parts of yourself, and embracing your identities, whatever that may be.

Earlier this year I was featured on a track by Dioscures called Back to, it’s one of my favourite songs.

It’s about following your passion without losing your

home, or sense of peace.

Before that, I released a song called Heartsick with Saud, a producer from Saudi during the pandemic. It’s about the whole world being sick, and learning to heal.

Which one of these releases is your favourite?

Ismak is my favourite so far, and I’m excited for the EP to come out next year with my other new songs.

These songs mean a lot to me because the lyrics are honest and personal.

I worked with incredible people on the project who inspired me to dig deeper and elevate my sound. I’m grateful to my creative director Mohamed Sqalli, music producer Malca, the video directors behind Bleu Nuit, the stylist Latifa Bint Saad, Deema Sabbagh and Sacha who co-wrote Ismak with me, my managers and team Yanin Gonzalez and Mohamed Sqalli. There are so many more people who contributed to the project –I feel very blessed.

Are you working with other artists now, and do you have any dream collaborations?

Right now, I’m focused on my releases, but I’ve worked with amazing artists such as Dioscures and Shobee and I hope to collaborate with them more. Malca, who produced the songs on the EP, is also an artist, and I love collaborating with him.

Other producers who are involved are Luke Walton and Brandon Woodward – they are in a band called Fein, and I hope to keep working with them as well.

I’m so lucky because it’s already a dream come true to be working with these creatives. It would also be a dream to work with The Weeknd, Lana Del Rey, Post Malone... to name a few.

Describe an average day?

Wake up, pray/meditate, and have a coffee. I try to workout at least four times a week. Then I answer emails and have breakfast.

I do my voice lesson and practice piano. If I have a

performance coming up, I practice in front of a mirror (the more comfortable you are performing in front of yourself, the better you’ll be at performing in front of others). Some days I have meetings. Other days, I have writing or studio sessions.

What are your other interests?

Being outdoors. I enjoy hiking, skiing, and surfing.

I just love doing things outside and appreciating nature. Even simple things like walking around whichever city I’m in, and discovering new places.

What does your involvement in the Regional Artist Spotlight mean to you?

I’m so honored. To me it means that I get to share my music and message with more people in the Middle East, and it gives me an opportunity to connect on a deeper level with my listeners.

What is your top 5 afterparty playlist?

1. Lala by Shkoon 2. Bongo bong by Manu Chao 3. I follow rivers by Lykke Li, The magician 4. Atab ( Hadi Zeidan remake) by Shab Abed, Hadi Zeidan 5. Morrow by 070 Shake q @RegionalArtistSpotlight; @tamtamsound What’s On_55

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SPORT + WELL-BEING + TRAVEL

PA G E 60

Merry markets

The best from around the world WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN MADRID p62 What’s On_57

A C T I V E

ACTIVE // THINGS TO DO

OPEN NOW

Fishy business A look inside The National Aquarium

B

ig fish energy emerges in the capital this month as The National Aquarium, located at Abu Dhabi’s upcoming leisure and entertainment mega

project, Al Qana, is finally open. What’s On heads inside the largest aquarium in the Middle East to find out more…

Wildlife encounters abound There are currently nine themed zones A Red Sea shipwreck, dhow rides, sting ray feeding, and a collection of glow-in-the-dark sea species are just some of the exciting things to see at The National Aquarium’s thematic zones.

Away from the sting rays, jellyfish and groupers, you’ll also find a range of land creatures, including a flock of puffins, frogs, capybaras, squirrel monkeys, monitor lizards and a seven-metre-long snake.

The underwater tunnel is the longest in the Middle East Located in Zone 9 (Bin Tinah zone), visitors can walk along the glass tunnel through a tank dedicated to the local species that are found in the UAE’s Boutina reserve.

There’s a genuine emphasis on conservation The Wildlife Rescue programme – a joint collab between the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and The National Aquarium – aims to rescue, rehabilitate and release native wildlife into the emirate, ensuring a world of natural treasures for future generations.

Pick the tour for you General admission costs Dhs105. The Beyond Glass ticket includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Aquarium for Dhs130. The Bu Tinah Dhow tickets cost Dhs150, including a fish feeding experience and boat tour. And the VIP ticket (which includes fast-track admission) includes everything for Dhs200.

58_What’s On

a The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, Al Qana, Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (0)50 123 4455. thenationalaquarium.ae

Exclusive paintings, sculptures and photography from award-winning international artists.

Painting by Mai Majdy

Photograph by Jorge Ferrari

Timepiece by David Galbraith

A C T I V E

Christmas markets Get that rosy glow of the festive season at these magical outdoor events – with food, drink and gifts to boot

01

Copenhagen, Denmark If anyone can do Christmas markets, it’s the Danes. Wandering the four miles of stalls with their artfully hung fairy lights in Copenhagen’s enchanting historic amusement park, Tivoli Gardens is a dazzling shopping experience you’ll never forget. Stands stocked with fine handmade crafts, such as jaunty clog-clad elves in pointy red caps and laughing reindeers, sit next to iced doughnuts coated in blackcurrant jam and goblets of traditional Danish gløgg, a hot drink laden with raisins, almonds, fragrant cinnamon sticks, and bitter cloves. A delicious experience all round. q visitcopenhagen.com

60_What’s On

TRAVEL // XMAS MARKETS 02

Budapest, Hungary

04

The biggest and longest Budapest Christmas market takes place on Vörösmarty square in the heart of the city. The large square is blanketed with glowing Christmas lights strung from trees and buildings. Beneath the lights, wooden market stalls host traditional Hungarian food vendors and all sorts of arts and crafts. Locals and tourists mingle over a mug of spiced mulled wine or a bowl of warm goulash soup at long communal picnic tables. Space heaters keep revelers warm as the sounds of Hungarian folk music echo throughout the square. q budapestinfo.hu/en

Santa Claus, Indiana, USA

03

Prague, Czech Republic Great news as Prague Tourism Board has confirmed the return of its Christmas markets this year, too. The stunning Gothic city of Prague becomes a city of fairy tales as the chilly air casts a misty magic around the spires of the Old Town. In the city’s main Wenceslas Square, in the shadow of a gigantic Christmas tree, old-fashioned wooden toys and handmade puppets are cheerfully bought and sold alongside delicate Bohemian glass and crystal. q pragueexperience.com

Yes, there really is a town in America called Santa Claus. The Midwestern town has built fame and fortune – and lots of happy memories – on its festive moniker.

As you can imagine, things get extra sparkly in December. Santa Claus Christmas Store is famous for its unique, personalised ornaments, stationery and stockings, while Santa’s Candy Castle has the biggest selection of candy canes you’ll find anywhere. After shopping, post your cards at Santa Claus Post Office (your envelopes will be postmarked with ‘Santa’), play some reindeer games at Frosty’s Fun Centre, then walk through the Land Of Lights, the biggest holiday light show in North America. q santaclausind.org

05

Photo: Getty

London, England Winter Wonderland in London’s famous Hyde Park has quickly become a must-do for British families celebrating the season, and delightfully, it’s back proper this year.

Famed for its fairground rides, circus and gigantic observation wheel, it’s also a place to swing by for lastminute gifts. Browse the 200 fairy-lit Bavarian-style wooden stalls, while clutching a decadent hot chocolate and tasty churro, on the hunt for woolen mittens and hats, charming ornaments and London keepsakes. In the Ice Bar everything is made of ice, from the building to the glasses, and you’re handed a cloak and gloves at the door. Take a tour of the Magical Ice Kingdom, where a frozen forest filled with unicorns and fairies leads you to a meeting with the magnificent Snow Queen. q hydeparkwinterwonderland.com What’s On_61

ADVERTISEMENT

THE TIME TO VISIT IS NOW

Madrid

M

adrid, like any other millions-strong capital city, is a shapeshifter, easy to adore but hard to pin down. To museum lovers, it’s a bottomless trove of Goyas, Velázquezes, Sorollas, and Picassos; to partiers, it’s a chooseyour-own-adventure of world-class techno, house, flamenco, jazz – any scene you love, any night of the week.

Food lovers may have the most fun.

Dinner might be a handful of olives and Sangria at a glorious hole-in-the-wall tapas bar, a nine-course tasting feast at a Michelin-starred gastro haunt, or anything in-between.

Today Madrid is a patchwork quilt of cultures hailing not just from around the Iberian Peninsula but far, far beyond.

Here are the reasons why there’s never been a better time to visit the Spanish capital – plus a smattering of insider tips to knit you straight into the city’s fabric from the moment you touch down.

For more information, visit esmadrid.com |

visitmadridoficial |

Visita_Madrid |

Visita_Madrid

WHAT TO SEE

With its architectural wonders, beautiful parks, famed art museums and laidback lifestyle, Madrid is basically a dream come true – provided your dreams are filled with influential art, delicious food, and beautiful people. Must visits include the great galleries of Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art, home to the Prado (be sure to book in for your own private tour), Thyssen-Bornemisza and Reina Sofía museums, as well as the Royal Observatory and Royal Botanical Gardens.

WHAT TO EAT

We love a tapas crawl as much as the next chowhound – who can resist meaty croquettes and slices of ooey-gooey Spanish omelette? So where better to start than at the oldest restaurant in the world? Founded in 1725, and with almost three centuries of history behind it, Botín is one of the capital’s most authentic and traditional eateries. But what sets Madrid apart from other Spanish cities is its nueva cocina scene that throws the rulebook out the window. For that type of cooking, there’s no hotter barrio than Saddle, helmed by chef Adolfo Santos, having just collected its first Michelin star last year.

Saddle joins an impressive collection of 19-strong Madrid establishments that are part of the Michelin Guide 2021, which includes DiverXo headed by Dabiz Muñoz, Coque by Mario Sandoval, and El Invernadero, by Rodrigo de la Calle.

WHERE TO STAY

The best of the old have survived, upgrading their facilities while adhering to old-style values of discretion and hospitality, but they have been joined by modern designer hotels that capture the essence of Spain’s style revolution. The Four Seasons, for example, is a newcomer to the capital, having opened its doors in 2020, while both the Rosewood Villa Magna and the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, are once again welcoming guests after undergoing ambitious restoration and renovation work. These three new additions join Madrid’s extensive list of premium hotels which includes the historic Westin Palace and the Santo Mauro Autograph Collection.

If life were a city, it’d be Madrid

WIN! THE ULTIMATE FOODIE WEEKENDER AT BAB AL QASR

Take your beloved on a foodie adventure with this prize from Bab Al Qasr. The Abu Dhabi hotspot is giving away a two-night stay in one of its modern rooms, with all your meal experiences taken care of, too. You’ll get the chance to try the newly launched Splash the Brunch from 1pm to 4pm, followed by a unique dinner in the dark experience at Fresh Basil where the waiters

are fitted with night vision goggles and you feast in the pitch black. You’ll also have breakfast in the hotel’s Artisan Kitchen, and enjoy a romantic dinner shoreline at The Loop Beach Restaurant & Bar.

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

WIN! A WEEKEND STAY AT

THE MARRIOTT HOTEL DOWNTOWN ABU DHABI WITH BRUNCH

One lucky winner will get to enjoy the Eat, Play, Laugh brunch at Kuzbara, with an overnight stay for two included.

The popular Friday feast features a mix of Malaysian, Thai, Japanese and Indian cuisine from street food to sushi, as well as a range of other global favourites from seafood to carvery stations. On the entertainment front, 64_What’s On

there’s giant Jenga, darts and foosball tables while the hotel’s resident DJ keeps the party hyped. Stay overnight in one of the hotel’s modern rooms, followed by breakfast to round off the weekend antics.

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

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LASTMINUTE TRIP Does Sofitel Dubai The Palm really have it all for the perfect family-friendly staycation?

French Polynesian-style resort Sofitel Dubai The Palm has certainly stood the test of time – even as other five-star resorts built up around it. The key to its longevity? Maybe it’s the awardwinning restaurants, its various pools and activities, and kids’ club. Or perhaps it’s the resort’s delightfully calming spa. We reckon it’s a bit of everything – a hotel that has everything you want, whenever you want it.

The location Found on the East Crescent of the Palm Jumeirah, Sofitel Dubai The Palm is within easy reach of many key locations in Dubai and is a 30-minute drive from Dubai International Airport. Its positioning on The Crescent means it has stunning sea views on either side of the hotel, too.

The look and feel Inspired by French Polynesia, the exteriors have a warm stonewashed aesthetic, with plenty of palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze. The vast lobby is light and neutral with golden-hued marble, while the friendly staff help make you feel at ease right from the get go.

“SUNSHINE WORSHIPPERS WILL FIND SOLACE AT ONE OF THE RESORT’S MANY POOLS...”

There are a variety of rooms and suites to suit families, couples, or groups of friends, some with sea and beach views, and some with courtyard views. They are spacious and comfortable, if slightly let down by outdated style.

palm trees. There’s even a pool with slides, which is perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. The award-winning spa facilities are brilliant with a range of treatments, sauna, and its own indoor and outdoor pools. There’s also a wellequipped fitness centre with a rooftop gym dedicated to building strength, endurance and agility.

The facilities

The food and drinks

Sunshine worshippers will find solace at one of the many pools surrounded by

Be smart and book a half-board stay at this resort. From steakhouse eatery

The rooms

66_What’s On

Porterhouse Steaks & Grills to the Moana seafood restaurant or casual dining at Maui overlooking the beach, you can dine somewhere different every day of your stay.

The room rates Room rates for a luxury palm view room for two adults in December are priced around Dhs1,768 per night. a Sofitel Dubai The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Tel: (0)4 455 6677. @sofiteldubaipalm

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