What's On Auh - January 2022

UAE DHS15

PACKED PAGES TO MAKE THIS YOUR BEST YEAR YET

NOW OPEN

Vertigo Bar & Lounge combines fancy beverages, sharing style menu, relaxing lounges and sidewalk cabanas to experience the essence of Abu Dhabi’s cosmopolitan social scene. Situated at the famous West Bay Abu Dhabi and open 7 days a week from 6 pm to 3 am, it is a must visit destination for all residents & tourists. Vertigo is the ultimate sunset viewing spot and the place provides the perfect backdrop, as DJ’s filling the space with laid back deep music and chilled house soundtracks every night from 10:30PM. The place is a landmark on the West Bay Abu Dhabi and an indelible part of the capital bar and entertainment scene, with Dizzy Hour daily from 6 pm to 10 pm @ 35 AED per drink.

#WestBayAbuDhabi @westbayabudhabi

WEST BAY ABU DHABI Tel: 02 692 4999 | WhatsApp 056 414 5055 | westbay.abudhabi@adnhmc.com

CONTENTS

FEATURES

THE YEAR AHEAD 22 THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2022 P14

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24 JIM GAFFIGAN Mr Deadpan performs his new stand-up show in Abu Dhabi

26 CHEAP EATS The best restaurants and cafés in the capital for great food and good value

30 ZERO HEROES Making it a dry January? We’ve got the perfect tipple substitutes

Page 30

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CONTENTS COVER

REGULARS 10 Yalla! Quick fix of news

12 UAE Famous The Expo expert Katie Overy

66 Last-minute staycation

34

Miami Beach vibes aplenty at Th8 Dubai on Palm Jumeirah

Cover: Sheila Deocareza

Stay in touch

33 CONSUME

56

34 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.

Bold Bangkok flavours at Silk and Spice and alfresco dining at Waves Bar & Outdoor Lounge

37 WHAT’S ON THE MENU What happened at our last What’s On supperclub

39 COMING SOON

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New restaurants to look forward to across the city

43 CULTURE

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44 AGENDA Unmissable events to attend this month

48 48 FILM

44 4_What’s On

Twenty-two of the best films coming out in 2022, including sharp-edged dramas, ambitious blockbusters and several reboots

55 ACTIVE 56 TRAVEL Your bucket list guide to exploring the best of Cairo

62 WIN Overnight stays, dinners and more

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

E N W E B B W .I R Y .G U E or N A C R G H , o H DA om Y , e! o

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5 Culinary Hubs. 11 Beverage Taps. 1 BIG Brunch. Go BIG every weekend with Booming Beats and Banging Bites. A Mezze spread and Asian f lavors. Meat cuts from the Vault and drinks on Tap. Every Saturday | 1PM to 4PM AED 279 Dry Package AED 379 Spirited Package AED 529 Sparkling Package

W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island +971 2 656 0000 wabudhabi.dining@whotels.com wabudhabiyasisland.com /@WAbuDhabi Terms and conditions apply.

01.22 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, 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

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EDITOR’S LETTER

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

It’s probably fair to say that no one is really sure what 2022 has in store for us. So, this month, we’re focusing on something we can always depend on: the UAE continuing to be great, challenging and unexpected. Among the highlights we’ve handpicked from p14 is a new taboggan ride on Jebel Jais, a comic con festival in the capital with a Game of Thrones VIP, and a yoga festival with enough Zen to help you bliss out ‘til December. Speaking of December, we’re sure the recent festivities went someway to draining your pockets – they certainly did ours. Help keep a little more in your pocket with our annual cheap eats feature (p22) stuffed with jolly good value meals around Downtown. We’ve also got our usual array of new restaurants, upcoming movies, and comedy shows to look forward to, too. Whatever the next year brings, Abu Dhabi and its neighbouring emirates will keep doing what it does best: Being great. Have a good one!

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

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THIS MONTH WHAT’S ON LOVES… The Paella Co. What a dream catering team from Dish Catering and Events. Seafood (Dhs125 per head), vegetable (Dhs80 per head), or mixed meat and seafood (Dhs95 per head) paellas are available to order – alongside a range of tidbit tapas – and whipped up in huge pans at your home to create the ultimate garden party experience. The set-up is picture-perfect, the team are super friendly and the flavours are fantastic. I loved it, my friends lost their minds, and you will love it, too. thepaellaco.com

Sugargram I’m a real sucker for great branding and Sugargram nails it every time. More than just an Instagrammable box though, the choice of products and speedy delivery makes them the ideal choice for totally-forgot-it’syour-birthday gifting. From mini cupcakes to full-size birthday cakes, you can’t go wrong. But my favourite treat has to be the moreish mocktail themed jelly sweets. @sugargram_me – Elise Kerr, Deputy Editor

– Laura Coughlin, Head of Content

Sunrise paddle boarding My mind always works overtime and it’s hard to find a moment of calm. Until I discovered paddle boarding at sunrise. I rent my board from Ignite (Dhs75 for one hour), located just by Riva Beach Club, and with its frond, Burj Al Arab and (sometimes if we’re lucky) Burj Khalifa views, it has to be one of the best spots in the city. At sunrise it’s magnificent, with glassy calm waters. The 5am start might be a struggle, but I promise it’s worth it. ignitewatersports.com – Lauren Fletcher, Online Reporter

A Karama food tour In my opinion, Karama is the best neighbourhood for foodies. Hidden gems serve up a plethora of cuisines, all at pocket-friendly prices. Try Shri Krishna Bhavan for its south Indian dishes, Little China for its droolworthy Indian-Chinese dishes, Al Reef Lebanese Bakery for its famous manakish and Yoko Sizzlers for well, their sizzlers – a medley dish served on a hot plate that sizzles when bought to your table. For something even more special, head to Sheikh Hamdan Colony Karama where a number of new cafes have sprung up over the past few months just waiting to be explored.

Audible This monthly audiobook subscription service makes our office commute an absolute joy. Gliding through the Media City streetscape on our impulse purchase push bike, a pair of headphones on (volume down low, safety first kids), one foot on the pedal, the other immersed in another literary world. And whether you’re looking to learn a new language, tear into a ripping yarn or deepen your understanding of a certain subject, there’s an almost inexhaustible library of books, podcasts and exclusive content to plunder. audible.com — Miles Buckeridge, Online Reporter

– Aarti Saundalkar, Junior Online Reporter What’s On_9

BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN JANUARY

BAB AL NOJOUM

When: Throughout January Abu Dhabi’s newest glamping destination Bab Al Nojoum - Al Mugheirah Resort has opened with 20 one-bedroom airstream cabins and a range of other rooms with private plunge pools, BBQ facilities more. q babalnojoum.com/al-mugheirah-resort

JIM GAFFIGAN LIVE

When: January 21 Top American stand-up comedian Jim Gaffigan brings The Fun Tour to Abu Dhabi, taking everday mundane topics and wringing them dry. a Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Fri 7pm, from Dhs195. etihadarena.ae

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ABU DHABI HSBC CHAMPIONSHIP

When: January 20 to 23 The popular golfing event takes place at Yas Links Abu Dhabi for the first time, attracting the sport’s top international talent. q troonabudhabi.com

THE EXPO ESSENTIALS Three things you have to do this month

01

DO THIS Sign up for Expo 2020’s Ride The World on January 1. From 7am, you’ll get to cycle as many loops as you can, enjoying the scenery of Expo 2020, before 8.45am. Then, it’s breakfast time at the Aussie Pavilion with special discounts. q premieronline.com

VERTIGO LOUNGE

When: Throughout January New nightlife venue Vertigo has opened by the water’s edge at Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi, with lovely views, a curated drinks menu and gastro grub. a Tel: (0)2 692 4375

UNLIMITED PIZZA

When: Every Thursday Purse strings a little tighter than normal? Take advantage of this jammy deal at the Meridien Plaza – unlimited pizza and two pints for Dhs99 available every Thursday. q @lemeridienabudhabi

EAT, SLEEP, SAVE, REPEAT

When: Until January 31 The winter edition of Abu Dhabi Shopping Season has returned with up to 80 per cent sales, and chances to win big prizes, including three Mercedes-Benz GLC200s. q retailabudhabi.ae

02

EAT THIS Chef David Thompson knows a thing or two about Modern Thai cuisine. The Aussie chef is celebrated for his expertise. Try a range of his delicious dishes at Long Chim, located opposite the Thai pavilion. q longchimdubai.com

03

SEE THIS New Zealand’s highest-selling live group Six60 will perform at Expo2020 Dubai marking their first ever performance in the region on January 31. a Discover

more cool things to do at WhatsOn.ae What’s On_11

KATIE OVERY THE EXPO EXPERT

question as it depends what you’re going to Expo for. People tend to overlook the thematic pavilions; Alif, Mission Possible and Terra. For that wow factor, I love the mirror room at the Mexico Pavilion and the gorge in Finland. For learning about the country, go check out Syria and Comoros. And for the whole experience, Germany and Japan top my lists. If we had to push you for your favourite Pavilion which would it be? Honestly, I can’t. They are all so different and you simply can’t compare a pavilion like The Netherlands against Eswatini pavilion for example. Yet I love them both from what I’ve learnt and experienced. Outside of Expo, you have become one of the city’s leading presenters. How has that journey been for you? Absolutely incredible... and tiring. To make the transition

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…

“FOR THAT WOW FACTOR, I LOVE THE MIRROR ROOM AT THE MEXICO PAVILION...” Right Katie, on a scale of one to 10, how obsessed with Expo 2020 are you? Oh, that would be a massive 10. I’m a ‘roving reporter’ for Studio Expo, the only daily live TV show broadcasting from Expo 2020 Dubai. This means I’m out and about nearly everyday reporting on what is happening, showcasing pavilions and meeting visitors. I love my job. You’ve been on site more than most. What are some of your hidden gems? This is always such a tough

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from the corporate world into radio and TV involved 18 months of seven days a week, hustling hard at the weekends for gigs and voiceover work, whilst doing a full time job, but hopefully it’s paid off.

You’ve lived in the UAE for a long time. How have you kept life here exciting? How can it not be exciting? Every five minutes there seems to be something new to experience. But beyond that, seeing my niece and nephews grow up here is all the excitement I need. What do you love about the UAE? Where do I start? I have friends from every corner of the globe. There’s no safer place to live, and the weather is just the best. What annoys you about the UAE? I would have to say the driving here. People not signalling, people pushing in and honking at a green light. Honestly, make it stop! Do you reckon Dubai is your forever home? Yes, for sure. I’m very lucky that a lot of my family live here, so I don’t see myself going anywhere. And, since it’s January, any new year’s resolutions? Absolutely not. q @iamkatieovery Studio Expo gives viewers a real-time inside look into every exciting event happening on-site, bringing all the best action and excitement straight to you. Watch the show live on Dubai One and on Expo TV via YouTube

The Studio Expo team

DATE CHANGES!

Based on the new UAE weekend announcement, the following dates are all subject to change. Please check relevant websites before visiting.

… AND NONE OF THEM INVOLVE GIVING UP STUFF 14_What’s On

UNMISSABLE 2022

1 DARREN DAY IS TAKING THE STAGE TO RAZZLE DAZZLE US An all-star cast – including West End legend Darren Day – are being welcomed to the city this month as musical Chicago opens at Dubai Opera. Darren Day, whose many West End credits include the title role in Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, plays Billy Flynn – Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer. He’s hired by inmates – and nightclub singers – Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly to help them avoid conviction. January 5 to 15 q dubaiopera.com

2 THE UAE’S LARGEST YOGA FESTIVAL RETURNS TO DUBAI Slip on those Lululemon leggings and set your mind to Zen mode – things are about to get mindful. After a couple of postponed dates (thanks, Covid), the organisers of this year’s YogaFest Dubai are going big this year with a three-dayer in Internet City Amphitheatre. There are dozens of classes in yoga, meditation, and sound healing, plus local vendors and food stalls. Tickets cost Dhs95 per day, or Dhs150 for a full weekend pass. March 17 to 19 q yogafest.me

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DUBAI HAS A NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD TO EXPLORE Dubai Harbour is that extraordinary seafront district that juts out into the ocean beside Barasti. Not only is it the largest marina in the region, but it’s now a cruise terminal, with a range of f&b and retail offerings opening throughout the year. Specifically, we’ve got upscale seafood restaurant L’Amo Bistro Del Mare (a partnership between Sunset Hospitality Group and Mine and Yours Group, and Addmind’s new bar and brasserie Bar Du Port on our radars. q dubaiharbour.com; @lamobistrodelmare; @barduportdubai

What’s On_15

UNMISSABLE 2022

4 THE FORMER GM OF IL BORRO AND ALICI IS OPENING A NEW PLACE Anybody lucky enough to have dined at Il Borro and Alici will have experienced Italian hospitality at its finest. For many years they were led by Piero Giglio, whose charm knocks the socks off anyone that meets him. Now Piero is the managing partner of Mine and Yours, and the group is set to open Chic Nonna in DIFC, featuring an elegant Osteria gourmet restaurant on the ground floor and a vibrant lounge bar above. q chicnonna.com

5 A GRUELLING WORKOUT IS HEADED FOR THE MARINA

Fancy London fitness studio brand 1Rebel is opening its first Dubai studio bang in the middle of town this year. Once the door opens to W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, be prepared for one of the most gruelling workouts where its 45-minute session torches more calories than you would in a session twice that long. q 1rebel.com

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THE FUTURE SHOULD BE HERE First announced in 2015, the Museum of the Future is nothing short of an architectural marvel. Designed in the shape of an eye hollowed out in the middle, the outside is covered in Arabic calligraphy. While traditionally museums showcase the past, the Museum of the Future will explore the future of science, technology and innovation. q museumofthefuture.ae

THE STORY OF

THE AL WASL OPERA

A behind-the-scenes look at how this ambitious production was brought to the stage for Expo 2020 Dubai. f i n d t h e b o o k at a l l m a j o r r e ta i l e r s a n d o n b o o k s a r a b i a . c o m BUY NOW

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UNMISSABLE 2022

7 IS IT TAKE TWO FOR ULTRA MUSIC FESTIVAL? We heard it through the grapevine that Ultra Music Festival will finally make its UAE debut in the coming months. Ultra’s first attempt at expanding into the Middle East hit the skids in March 2020. The build for the two-day event in Abu Dhabi was almost complete when Covid-19 forced the festival’s cancellation. Our spies tell us the festival is back on the agenda for 2022 although we don’t know whether it will take place in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. One thing is for sure though, it will boast a line-up of fist-pumping, pyroloving EDM headliners. We’ll bring you more info as soon as we have it…

8 AUSSIE SPOT BIDI BONDI IS BEING REPLACED… BY AN AUSSIE SPOT When Bidi’s closed last year, it left a hole both in our hearts, and along the Palm’s prime real estate. Thankfully, restaurateur and all-round bonzer bloke Tom Arnel (of Tom & Serg fame) has taken over the space to open a brand new multi-concept called The Byron Bathers Club. Opening in February, 2022, The Byron – as it aims to be affectionately known – will be a seafood focused beachside dining destination offering a la carte breakfasts, lunches and late-night dinners. q @byronbathersclub 18_What’s On

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A GRANNY SPORT TAKES OVER ZERO GRAVITY The What’s On Award-winning Bongo’s Bingo is back at a brand new location, with a surprise guest to be announced soon. January 28 q @bongosbingodubai

10 FRIDAY BRUNCHES ARE CHANGING

It made news across the world. Last month, the UAE announced that it would transition its weekends to Saturday and Sunday (plus Friday afternoon for government entities). That means one of our country’s biggest institutions will be no more, replaced instead by the Saturday brunch, and the Sunday roast. Bear with us here at What’s On as we amend approximately 5,000 online brunch articles…

11 A BALEARICS CABARET IS COMING TO DIFC Word on the grapevine is that Lio, one of the world’s most glamorous cabarets, born in Ibiza, will shimmy its way into DIFC, setting up a home in the old Gaucho location. q @lioibizaofficial

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MEAT FRUIT IS A REAL DISH YOU’RE ABOUT TO EAT It’s one of celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal’s most iconic dishes and looks like a mandarin but is actually made from chicken liver parfait. You’ll be able to try it for yourself when his restaurant opens at the Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences on the Palm Jumeirah before the year is out. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal will be the third outpost of the culinary concept, which already has locations in London and Melbourne. q dinnerbyheston.com

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UNMISSABLE 2022

HOT NEW HOTELS OPENING IN 2022

16 The Lana Hotel The Dorchester group will open its stunning Dubai outpost in Business Bay by the end of 2022. q thedorchestercollection. com

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17 W Dubai – Mina Seyahi

THE ABU DHABI F1 IS A GUARANTEED CERT Even before the smoke had cleared from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2021 — the last race of the season – Formula 1 had dropped the dates for the 2022 season. The Abu Dhabi F1 will once again serve as the exhilarating finale to the year’s racing, taking place November 17 to 20, 2022. q formula1.com

Practically sitting atop Barasti, the new W Dubai – Mina Seyahi features 318 guest rooms, including 26 suites and an Extreme Wow Suite (W’s take on a Presidential Suite). q whotels.com

18 Anantara Mina Al Arab

14 NATHALIE EMMANUEL LEADS CELEBRITY LINE-UP AT COMIC CON The tenth edition of the Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) takes place in March 2022, hosted in the capital with Game of Thrones star Nathalie Emmanuel named as the first celeb to join the event. Get involved with A-lister meet and greets, talks from entertainment icons, workshops, comic and anime art galleries, eSports expositions, and a cosplay parade. March 3 to 5 q mefcc.com 20_What’s On

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THERE’S A NEW TOBOGGAN RIDE ON JEBEL JAIS PLUS OTHER NEW ATTRACTIONS Jais Sledder joins Jais Wings (the first dedicated paragliding site in the GCC), and Jais Swing (a perfect ride for the ‘Gram) atop the UAE’s highest mountain peak. Soon to open: Earth Altitude, an eco-based pop-up hotel, plus Jais Yard foodie village, and Cloud7 Camp sustainable glamping experience. q visitjebeljais.com

It looks like a resort in the Maldives, but the Anantara Mina Al Arab opens this year in Ras Al Khaimah’s Mina Al Arab district, boasting 174 guest rooms, suites and – the part that’s really caught our eye – overwater villas. q anantara.com/mina-alarab-ras-al-khaimah

19 Atlantis The Royal Resort Eighteen restaurants and bars (which include eight celebrity chefs), impeccable rooms, Cloud 22 skypool, and its own fire and water show – this is the biggie opening, and we cannot wait. q atlantis.com

27-30 JANUARY 2022 MAJLIS COURSE AT EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

A New Era SERGIO GARCIA

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UNMISSABLE 2022

20 A MASSIVE SNOW PARK IS OPENING IN ABU DHABI Blanketing a 100,000 square foot area, the “nearly completed’ Snow Abu Dhabi will take the form of an enchanted forest inside Reem Mall (also slated to open this year). Divided into distinct whimsical zones, Snow Abu Dhabi features many rides, attractions and slides that take you on a cross-country adventure, past snow-powdered pine trees and dazzling lights. q reemmall.ae

21 THE ABU DHABI HSBC CHAMPIONSHIP 2022 FINDS A NEW HOME This year, the popular golfing engagement will take place at Yas Links Abu Dhabi for the first time. It marks the opening Rolex Series event of the 2022 season and attracts the sport’s top international talent. January 20 to 23 q troonabudhabi.com

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THE EXPO DUBAI 2020 CLOSING WILL BE MASSIVE It’s hard to be believe that we’re already halfway through the World’s Greatest Show, but Expo Dubai 2020 will be an event we’ll never forget. While the teams are keeping finale concerts under wraps, you’d best believe that it’ll go out with a bang. Meanwhile, make the most of it Expo 2020 while you can. Until March 31 q expo2020dubai.com

MR JANUARY 21

DEADPAN Top comedian Jim Gaffigan brings The Fun Tour to Abu Dhabi, taking mundane topics and wringing them dry 24_What’s On

F

or over three decades, Jim Gaffigan has stood onstage before audiences laughing at his jokes as if he were the funny relative at a dinner table. His humour is clean by stand-up comedy standards and “normie” (of the mainstream). His observations, which have the feel of an introspective child standing in a corner, are delivered with the cutting deadpan confidence of a middle-aged man who’s lived a hearty life — because that’s precisely what Gaffigan is. His stand ups comment on pedestrian topics like being overweight and food. One of his most famous riffs is about American fast food dish hot pockets. But after becoming a father — five times over — and supporting his wife through treatment for a brain tumor in 2017, his material turned toward parenthood, faith and family. Some comics may have retreated from the industry, but Jim did what comedians do best — find humor in life’s greatest challenges. During the pandemic, Gaffigan promised to upload a new video to his YouTube channel every day “until the world ends.” In July, 2021, the six-time Grammy-nominated comedian kicked off his latest tour, The Fun Tour, which took him to 27 cities by the end of last year, before making his stop in the UAE capital. Here are some of Jim’s funniest jokes over the years…

a

ON FOOD:

ON SEAFOOD:

“[Food] delivery is a combination of my two favourite activities: eating and not moving.”

“You know God’s up in heaven going, ‘What do I gotta do to stop them from eating the crabs? I gave it a rock-hard shell. I put it on the bottom of the ocean. I named a disease after it.’”

ON BEING SLEEP DEPRIVED: “There should be a children’s song: ‘If you’re happy and you know it, keep it to yourself and let your dad sleep’.”

“I can’t believe we’re still giving clothing as a gift. Cause whenever you get clothing as a present, you always open it up and you think, ‘Not even close.’ And the person that gives it is always like, ‘You can take it back if you don’t like it.’ ‘That’s alright. I’ll just throw it out.’ Don’t give me an errand.”

ON GRAMMAR NERDS:

ON EXCESS FOOD: “It would be embarrassing trying to explain what an appetiser is to someone from a starving country. ‘Yeah, the appetiser –that’s the food we eat before we have our food. No, no, you’re thinking of dessert – that’s food we have after we have our food.’”

ON RETURNING GIFTS:

ON PARENTING: “Raising kids may be a thankless job with ridiculous hours, but at least the pay sucks.”

“Whenever you correct someone’s grammar just remember that nobody likes you.”

ENTRY RULES All attendees must show vaccinated status (on Al Hosn) and present a negative PCR test valid for 96 hours

Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Fri 7pm, from Dhs195. etihadarena.ae

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C H E A P E AT S

Blown a fortune over the festive period? It’s time to discover Downtown’s plethora of super-affordable restaurants.

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C H E A P E AT S EGYPTIAN

Tasha Restaurant Not to be confused with the posh and elegant tashas of Al Bateen, Tasha Restaurant offers an entirely different experience. Specialising in authentic Egyptian cuisine, it’s down to earth, no nonsense and refreshingly casual. The hieroglyphic-covered walls and pharaoh-inspired artworks will have you dreaming of booking that bucket list trip down the Nile, and our favourites include the juicy hawawshi sandwiches (Dhs24), delightfully creamy lentil soup, and the epic breakfast spreads. The complimentary Arabic tea at the end adds to its endearing charm. a Hazza Bin Zayed the First Street, Al Dhafrah, 7am to 12.30am. Tel: (0)2 677 8777. @tasha.abudhabi.

MEXICAN

Burro Blanco Quite literally a hole in the wall found just next to a Khalidiyah ADNOC station, Burro Blanco’s enormous and super-tasty burritos are the stuff of legend. Takeaway only, the staff are an exceptionally likeable bunch and the delicious fillings go far beyond the usual choices of beef or chicken. Veggies have a number of exciting options, including Beyond Meat or colourful squash, pepper and onion, while the deep-fried avocado chips are mindblowingly brilliant. Once you try it, you’ll immediately understand the hype. Meet the owner on p38. a Al Khalidiyah, Sat to Wed 11am to 10pm, Thu to Fri 11am to midnight. Tel: (0)2 309 3911. @burroblancouae

SHAWARMA

Flame and Bake Ask any city guy or girl where to find the best shawarma, and F&B will normally be the answer. A true Abu Dhabi institution, it’s so popular it has three Downtown locations, all within amusingly close proximity. Setting you back a meer Dhs14, it’s got every element nailed. The chicken is succulent, the pickles are just the right amount of sour and, whether you go for saj or a babalouchi pita, the bread is always fresh and beautifully soft. Nobody’s judging if you order two. a Al Saqr Tower, Al Khalidiyah, and elsewhere. 10.30am to 1am. Tel: (0)2 681 7747. @flamenbakeuae.

BURGERS

Firefly Firefly’s ridiculous ‘cheese injection’ burger once made headlines as far as the UK, but don’t let that put you off. Everything else on the menu is ultra-tasty, top quality, huge and, reassuringly gimmick free. The outdoor terrace is perfect for soaking up the cool backstreet vibes of Khalidiyah and the fries are easily big enough to share between two. There are loads of tempting topping combos to choose from, including a Wagyu burger for only Dhs32, but we recommend keeping it simple and opting for the signature Firefly Burger (Dhs29). It hits the spot every time. a Behind Arab African International Bank, Al Khalidiyah. Sun to Wed and Sat, noon to 11.30pm. Thur to Fri noon to 12.30pm. Tel: (0)2 679 0090. @fireflyburgerad. What’s On_27

CH HE EA AP P E E AT AT S S C

ULTRA-BUDGET THAI

Good Burger Old and crumbling compared with the rest of Abu Dhabi, the original Tourist Club Area is a hotspot for crazily cheap and delicious food. You’ll find a brilliant, rustic cafeteria on every corner, but Good Burger is one of the best. Despite what the name suggests, this no-frills alleyway haunt specialises in an eclectic selection of cuisines, including grills, biryanis, incredible curries (we can vouch for the butter chicken and kadai) and everyone’s favourite Downtown staple, Dhs3 Oman Chip parathas. The makeshift urban ‘terrace’ is always buzzing, and you’ll pay no more than Dhs50 for two to eat very well indeed. a Al Shabhan Street, Al Zahiyah. 9am to 3am. Tel: (0)2 444 2484.

CHINESE

Seven Hotpot Normally, the best part of eating out is that you don’t have to cook. But at Seven Hotpot, the preparation is all part of the journey. An established Abu Dhabi rite of passage, it invites you to throw tender beef, huge squid rings, bok choy and as many other tasty morsels as you fancy into a bubbling pot of spicy broth on your table. The opposite to your stereotypically greasy Chinese, it’s a healthy, low-carb and highly sociable dinner that costs less than Dhs50 per person. Go hungry, get creative at the make-your-own sauce counter and absolutely try the random free fried chicken. a Electra Street. 11am to 1am. Tel: (0)2 546 8877. @sevenhotpotgroup. 28_What’s On

LEBANESE BAKERY

Du Mayass Boulangerie You haven’t lived until you’ve tried kaak. Massive ringshaped dough topped with crunchy sesame seeds and going for only around Dhs20 each, these bargain, meal-sized treats come stuffed with cheese, labneh, spicy sausages and every kind of Arabic-inspired filling you can imagine. Watching the expert bakers at work in the open kitchen is fascinating, and there’s also excellent manakish, cute pastry appetisers (Dhs3 each), salads, sandwiches and fresh juices. The dining room is chic and homey, and it all feels like it should be far more costly than it actually is. a Corniche Residents, opposite Official Park, 7am to midnight. Tel: (0)2 639 9972. bdm-bakery.ae

Lemongrass Thai Restaurant Abu Dhabi’s flashiest mall is an unlikely place for a budget dinner spot. But those in the know sidle past the high-end brands, and head to the food court of the ‘old bit’ to gobble up some of the most sensational Thai grub to be found outside of Bangkok. The papaya salad pops with the most wonderful contrasting sweet, sour and spicy flavours, and the pad thai, served encased in a delicate egg shell, is incredible. Take your tray out onto the terrace and enjoy exactly the same stunning waterfront views as Coya, La Petite Maison and the rest of the Island’s flashy hotspots, but for around Dhs40 or less a plate. You will, (quite rightly) feel very smug indeed. a The Galleria, Al Maryah Island. Sat to Wed 11am to 11pm, Thur to Fri 11am to midnight. Tel: (0)2 677 0100. @lemongrassauh.

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ZERO HE Stock up on these substitutes this January 2

1 Biere Des Amis The popular Belgian ale brand jumped on the health bandwagon to produce an equally soft and mellow pint. It’s slow de-alocholisation method ensures that its bitter aftertaste and characterful aromas remain. BEST SERVED: Cold in a tulip glass. WATERING HOLES: Phileas Foggs, Reform Social and Mamazonia, or order from choitrams.com

2 Sea Arch This Devonshire, UK brand prides itself on using complex, natural botanicals such as sea kelp, juniper, samphire, cardamon and blood orange to create alcohol-free spirits. BEST SERVED: Half fill a balloon glass with ice, squeeze in a wedge of lime and add a 50ml measure of Sea Arch. Serve with tonic. WATERING HOLES: Fil’ia and Waldorf Astoria DIFC, or order from drinkdrystore.com

3 Strykk Spice (Not R*m) From mojitos to virgin tiki drinks, get the tropical vibes flowing with this zero-proof spirit. Relative newcomer Not Rum is so popular that it can be hard to get your hands on a bottle, but when you do, it’s worth it. BEST SERVED: As the key component in your mojito, or Cuba Libre. WATERING HOLES: Order from spinneys.com

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3 1

ROES 4

5

6

4 Lyre’s (Amaretti) This unique spirit has been impossibly crafted to capture the essence of a nutty amaretto liqueur with flavours that are distinct and contemporary. BEST SERVED: As a classic digestif, or an Amaretto Sour dupe. WATERING HOLES: Across DIFC, or order from lyres.ae

5 Bax Botanics (Sea Buckthorn) Another hit from the UK, this Yorkshire brand has a range of non-alcoholic tipples, but we particularly like the Sea Buckthorn, which uses the tart berries from the buckthorn tree, and infuses these with organic herbs and Seville orange to create a pungent and herbal juniper alternative. BEST SERVED: Bax’s website says it’s for “slow sips and relaxation,” so no drinking it neat. Serve instead with premium tonic and a ribbon of orange zest. WATERING HOLES: TVM Abu Dhabi and Clap Dubai, or order from drinkdrystore.com

6 Natureo This family-run business was the first in Spain to create dealcoholised wine. Its Natureo range preserves the typical citrusy aromas to create a refreshing and pleasant taste. Best of all, it’s only 33 calories a glass. That’s half of a typical glass. BEST SERVED: Cold in a large glass and devoured as an aperitif or alongside pasta or fish. WATERING HOLES: Asador de Aranda and Bleu Blanc or order from drinkdrystore.com

What’s On_31

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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 34

Silk and Spice

Flavours from the Land of Smiles NEW RESTAURANTS COMING SOON p39 What’s On_33

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

SILK AND SPICE Something new to Thai...

hai restaurant Silk and Spice at the Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche has re-emerged after a five-year hibernation. Prior to its temporary closure, it had been a popular pick for those who appreciate bold Bangkok flavours. Now its back now, having gone under the knife and strolled out with a fresh new look and a menu reassignment. But has it retained those authentic Thai bones? We had to come and check it out. In we march on a Tuesday lunchtime, the muffled lorem ipsum chatter of suited local executives enjoying their gourmet business lunches providing a busy background hum. It’s an unpretentious restaurant caught somewhere between East and West but, in our opinion, falls just shy of the elegance it aspires to. Now, at just after midday, the restaurant is filled with natural light from the panoramic windows and after gracelessly accessing our sunken table — on select seating sections, legs slide into a recess on the floor — we are immediately enamoured by the novelty of it. The setting feels intimate, transportive. As we scroll through our QR codesprung eMenus we are genuinely impressed with the selection of value set menus and promotions. They’re a great way to explore a restaurant’s craft but our host has kindly agreed to lead us through some of the a la carte highlights, and we never refuse an expert invitation. We start with tom kha gai, a chicken and coconut soup (Dhs50), it’s intensely aromatic and full of that signature Thai

T

34_What’s On

taste trinity — acid, fat and spice. A huge portion of phad Thai goong (traditional noodle dish served with prawns and egg) follows along with por pia pak (vegetable spring rolls, Dhs55). It’s a South East Asian carb fest, and a well crafted recreation of flavour combinations from the land of smiles. We adore the subtle nuttiness of the phad Thai, and the electric perfumes of the por pia pak dipping sauce. Bangkok has us now, and we’re with OK that. The waitress brings a collection of sharing-portion-sized main courses that includes som tum goong (green papaya salad with prawns, Dhs65), yum talay

(spicy seafood salad, Dhs60), nua yang rad gaeng kiew waan (beef with green curry sauce, Dhs105). Sometimes you’ll find an excess of oil, salt or fish sauce in Thai food that will commandeer your tastebuds. Not here. The meals are clean; they taste fresh; they taste Thai. The salads are light and razor sharp with citrus tang and the green curry tastes fierce and exotic. Big lemongrass flavours slip into the corriander, tumble onto chilli and snuggle up with lime, it’s all a very fragrant and satsifying affair. We’re told their mango rice is a thing of equisite beauty. But that will have to remain a pleasure for another day. Verdict: There aren’t many places where you can get good Thai food in Abu Dhabi, but this is good Thai food. The set menus (from Dhs195) and business lunch (from Dhs120) represent particularly good value. a Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, Corniche Road East Capital Plaza Complex. Tel: (02) 813 7777. sofitelabudhabicorniche.com RATING Food �������������������������������������������������������������� B+ Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

C O N S U M E

EAT // REVIEW

WAVES BAR AND OUTDOOR LOUNGE

Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan’s terrace space – lap it up or will it crash and burn? t’s a venue that has somehow cultivated a reputation as being a casual after-work hangout, a weekend alfresco soiree spot and even a bit of a sports pub. Can it be all of these things? Should it be all of things? There’s only one way to find out. We arrive in daylight hours, and so are able to appreciate the bar and its surroundings in its natural state. There’s a sense of deliberate modularity to it, different identities living in different parts of the outlet, possibly explaining why it is many things to many people. There are design crests, and huddle lulls, big screen TVs and broad-tabled booths. Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan is a citylocked hotel and Waves is only on the first floor so it’s not somewhere that draws its tribe on the basis of view. There is a warm charm to Waves. Sure, it doesn’t pout in that sophisticated fashion some of the

I

swankier city bars do, but we’re champions of variety and believe a space should always be made for a place like Waves. The kitchens here frequently run theme months with limited edition collections of cuisine such as poutine, Vietnamese cuisine and paella. Some of the items from these menus prove so popular that they — by sheer will of the people — are coerced into permanent rotation. That means the menu is as delightfully eclectic as the venue that offers it. And amongst the international plates and gastronomic relics from themes past, you’ll find some genuinely enjoyable bites. We peruse a list of big substantial plates (steaks, grilled salmon, lamb chops and more), but we follow the voice within

that tells us ‘at Waves we share’. We love the spicy wings (Dhs40) — but they are genuinely not recommended for the sort that sweat through a lemon and herb Nando’s; the mac and cheese balls (Dhs38) are a cute carby remix of the arancini conept; the Japanese-style baos are well executed and come in a combo of four for just Dhs84. It is licensed, of course, but we’re finding the bar to be a great resource for mocktail mixology, too. The passion lemonade (Dhs32) is an attractive tropical drop and our pick of the lot. Verdict: Waves Bar and Outdoor Lounge isn’t concerned with disrupting the world of hospitality, it busies itself with providing a hub for an enjoyable night (or day) out. The cuisine is a solid pub grub showing, with a few welcome exotic curveballs, while the frequently updated promotions also add to the allure. a Novotel Abu Dhabi Al Bustan, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, 11am to 1am daily. Tel: (02) 501 6444, @waves_ abudhabi RATING Food ���������������������������������������������������������������� B Atmosphere ���������������������������������������������������� Price ���������������������������������������������������������

What’s On_35

MEET THE OWNER

SAIED EL HAKIM Founder and managing

BRUNCH MONTH

director at Mexican eats hotspot Burro Blanco The first dish I ever made from scratch was mashed potatoes. It was chunky, a bit undercooked in some areas, but edible. When I moved to Canada at the age of 15, my brother was the only one cooking, and he wasn’t very good. Our options were to eat whatever he made, or order out. Being students, we usually opted for whatever he made. When I was finally fed up with his food, I decided to give it a go. So I grabbed some potatoes, butter, some seasonings and went for it. Canada has had the biggest impact on my culinary skills. I got a job in a kitchen while I was at university. From my first job at Marche’ in Toronto, I went on to work my way up through many restaurants in the city. I’m so pleased to see so many more creative home-grown brands here now. More of those are focusing on unique offerings instead of following fads. I like simple food. It doesn’t have to be fancy to be impressive. A well made roast chicken can make my day. I also love complex soups. A good pho or ramen is a real treat. When I’m not cooking I love to cycle. This industry can have a toll on your sanity sometimes. Cycling is a mentally liberating sport. Plus, I can do it very early in the day before my hectic schedule starts. q @burroblancouae

36_What’s On

O F

T H E

The Project Brunch

Glamour and grandeur at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Walking through the lobby of The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, which practically drips with gold and crystals, is always a thrill. But it’s even more exciting when there’s a lavish brunch waiting on the other side. Combining grandeur and sophistication with a welcoming demeanor, The Project Brunch is a relaxed journey through vintage-style glamour. Rather than a token gesture, the welcome drinks are a key part of the whole experience. Set within The St. Regis Bar, a venue that oozes old-school New York elegance with dark wooden furnishings and regal armchairs, the entire length of the bar is covered with at least a dozen different colourful mixed drinks. It’s an impressive start. The shaded terrace provides a lovely place to dine, although we can’t help but wish that there was some music or entertainment to add to the vibe. That said, this brunch is all about culinary excellence rather than partying, and the food is excellent. Providing amazing dishes served straight to the table and a vast buffet of extensive options, we’re immediately presented with delicate zesty ceviche,

served inside huge clam shells, followed by oysters. In fact, this is a great brunch for fish and shellfish lovers, with maki rolls, sashimi, prawn and crab tempura, scallops, and salt-crusted salmon. The flame-torched seafood and mushroom gratin is unique and memorable, while the enormous Tomahawk steak, spicy Indian grills, fresh naans and barbecued meats, make up some of the many other highlights. It would be a crime not to save enough room for a go at the awe-inspiring cheese and dessert spreads. We try the pecan pie, Oreo cheesecake, caramel ice cream and too many more indulgent options, but this brunch isn’t the time to be restrained. Be sure to stick around for the hugely entertaining St. Regis tradition of bubbly sabering. After all, any brunch that involves watching someone open a bottle of bubbly with a huge metal blade (and gives you the chance to drink it afterwards, too), is a winner in our eyes. a The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm. Dhs345 with soft drinks, Dhs450 with house drinks, Dhs595 bubbly. (0)2 694 4444. @stregisabudhabi

IN THE LOOP

Here’s a look at what happened at our last What’s On The Menu? supper club If there’s one thing that Abu Dhabi residents love more than an evening out, it’s an evening out to a What’s On supper club. Thankfully, we host one of these bad boys nearly every month, touring around the UAE, and popping up at some of the country’s new or legendary spots. Together with our chosen restaurant, we wine and dine you, and best of all, you get to enjoy the experience for free. Just before we closed out 2021, we kicked off our shoes and headed 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 walked through the blue arches into the alfresco poolside restaurant, before enjoying 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. It was a magical night under the stars, with chill beats and fantastic eats. Join us for the next installment, coming soon. babalqasr.com

What’s On_37

Experience the very best of

with all the latest news, reviews and activites to help you discover what the Kingdom has to offer

WhatsOnSaudiArabia.com whatsonksa

C O N S U M E

EAT // NEW OPENINGS

Coming soon to Abu Dhabi Your next culinary crush in the capital is probably right here

Find out all of Abu Dhabi’s upcoming openings on WhatsOn.ae

01

La Carnita Location: Yas Bay This street-style Mexican eatery was conceived and raised in the mighty culinary forge of Toronto. As you might expect, coming from Drake’s backyard, the soundtrack at the Latin cantina’s network of venues is straight up, golden age, hip-hop and R&B. This Abu Dhabi outpost follows on from the success of the Dubai location, found at the InterContinental Dubai Marina. As with much of Yas Bay’s ‘coming soon’ collection, we have no firm numbers on an expected due date (although, we’d say early 2022). We’re hoping it takes much the same format as its Dubai cousin, which offers one of the best Taco Tuesdays in the city (three hours unlimited tacos for Dhs150). q lacarnita.ae What’s On_39

C O N S U M E

EAT // NEW OPENINGS

02

Hunter & Barrel Location: Yas Bay Aussie steakhouse Hunter & Barrel, which opened a Dubai location at Vida Emirates Hills and has since become wildly popular, will be bringing a much needed ‘meating place’ to the capital’s new leisure and entertainment district. Rob De Villiers, Middle East managing director for Seagrass BHG (the group responsible for Hunter & Barrel), said: “We are excited to share our exceptional charcoal roasted dishes and tender cuts of beef with the greater Yas Island residents and visitors”. q @hunterandbarreluae

04 03

Otoro Location: Al Qana Set to offer a modern Japanese dining experience, Otoro’s (the name comes from a prized cut of tuna) menu will feature ‘quirky sushi’, Japanese wagyu steaks, and a collection of sharing-style dishes. q @otoro.ad 40_What’s On

Akiba Dori Location: Yas Bay Dubai Design District’s (D3) electric Japanese restaurant and pizzeria is making its way to the new multi-billion dirham Yas Bay development. With its neon stripes, honour badge from the academy of chic interiors, and innovative artworks, we feel Akiba Dori will fit into the neighbourhood seamlessly. The restaurant will be located on Yas Bay’s Pier 71, and will feature a terrace with some pretty incredible skyline views. q akibadori.com

05

Ting Irie Pon Di Beach Location: Al Mamsha, Saadiyat The Abu Dhabi version of Dubai’s popular Caribbean-themed lounge is not open yet, but when it does, you’ll be able to walk in straight from the beach. At Ting Irie, it’s all about those good island vibes, soulful reggae, dancehall bangers, and authentic Caribbean cuisine. This new venture is a skank step closer to its spirit land, being just a few steps away from Saadiyat’s gorgeous Soul Beach. There’ll be no dress code (no pressed shirt, no shoes — no worries) and a terrace space offering island shoreline views, and Arabian Gulf blues. q @tingirieuae

07

Cafe Del Mar Location: Yas Bay The original Balearic apres-rave hub, Cafe Del Mar is the stuff of Ibizan legend. During its 40-year nonstop party manifesto, it launched an innumerable number of ‘chilled house’ playlists, hosted almost every DJ hall-of-famer, and established itself as an essential strand in the tapestry of the Ibiza music phenomenon. New Cafe Del Mar venues have sprung up in Phuket, Tenerife, mainland Spain, and there’s even one offering warm welcomes and fond farewells at Ibiza Airport. Back in 2015, there was a UAE location penciled in for Dubai, which sadly never got the greenlight, but our neighbour’s loss is now our gain. q @cafedelmarabudhabi

06

Grand Beirut Location: Al Qana This will be the fourth UAE outlet of the popular Lebanese restaurant chain owned and operated by MBT Restaurant Management. The group has had a busy year with new concepts Beirut Sur Mer and Raclette opening on Saadiyat Island to grand appraisal. The brand reputation for authenticity and consistency makes this announcement worth getting very excited about. q @grandbeirutuae

What’s On_41

Exclusive paintings, sculptures and photography from award-winning international artists. Painting by Mona Kfoury

Photograph by Mahsa Namvar

Timepiece by David Galbraith

ART + THEATRE + FILM + MUSIC

PA G E 44

Agenda

Unmissable culture events this month REGIONAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT p46 FILM p48

THE AGENDA Our pick of the top culture-related events this month around the UAE

DUBAI /NEW

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

GALLERY/

Art World Creation Dubai Art World Creation Dubai is the all-new art gallery in DIFC exhibiting unique artworks from across the globe. Set to run for three consecutive months, Sand Flower by acclaimed Turkish artist Ahmet Güneştekin will be AWC’s opening exhibit. The exhibition’s title comes from the desert rose, a complex formation of sand grains and crystal clusters. The exhibition includes works that manifest the artist’s notion of this fragmented world. Until March 18 q awcdubai.com

44_What’s On

/THEATRE/

Short+Sweet Dubai 2022 If your attention span is short but your love of theatre is long-standing, this is the festival for you. Billed as the ‘biggest little theatre festival in the world,’ Short+Sweet – now in its 10th year – returns to Dubai on January 14 bringing mini-plays galore to those hungry for more easily digestible culture. January 14 to March 14 a The Junction, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, from Dhs100. Tel: (0)4 338 8525. @shortnsweetdxb @ junctiondubai

CULTURE /COMEDY/

The Laughter Factory To start 2022 in the worst possible taste, The Laughter Factory is flying in three of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival’s most badly behaved acts: Larry Dean, Omid Singh and Stewart Lee. They’ll be performing in various venues across town throughout the month. January 14, 15, 19, 20 and 21 q thelaughterfactory.com /FESTIVAL/

Quoz Arts Fest

Larry Dean

Quoz Arts Fest by Alserkal returns this year, transforming the creative neighbourhood of Al Quoz into an outdoor celebration of its homegrown creatives. The festival – exploring the theme, Waking Dreams – will see live music, performances, food trucks, outdoor installations, contemporary art exhibitions, wellness activities, a midnight movie marathon and more, all of which are free and open to the public. January 29 and 30 q @alserkalavenue

ABU DHABI

/CONCERT/

An Evening with Frank Sinatra

/EXHIBITION/

Art Here See the works of seven UAE-based artists who submitted successful proposals around the theme of memory, time and territory, for the first annual Art Here exhibition at Louvre Abu Dhabi. This exhibition shines a spotlight on the extraordinary contemporary art scene in the UAE, creating a new stage at Louvre Abu Dhabi for artists and giving them a platform to be seen and heard. A cash prize of $50,000 will be awarded to one of these artists at the end of March. Throughout January q louvreabudhabi.ae

Honouring the music of Frank Sinatra, conductor Andrew Berryman and the NSO Big Band perform a myriad of Sinatra’s hits, from swing numbers Fly me to the moon, Sway, The best is yet to come and That’s life to the favourites, New York, New York, and My way. January 14 a Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 7pm, from Dhs125. etihadarena.ae What’s On_45

CULTURE

Fresh vibes

Flash Entertainment continues its Regional Artist Spotlight to shine a light on our region’s most talented musicians

S

udanese singersongwriter Jindi is not afraid to bounce between genres. And he does so effortlessly, cherrypicking elements of funk, soul, pop, R&B, reggae and dancehall into his infectious grooves. His debut EP 1995 – released in 1999 – spawned the single Dancefloor, which topped pop charts in multiple countries across the MENA region. With his Arabic and English lyrics flowing smoothly across Afrobeat and dancehall rhythms, Jindi is pulling together his roots and influences, performing widely across the region, including big performances at Expo 2020 Dubai.

MUSIC

How did you first get into music? Growing up in a Sudanese household I’ve been around music all my life. My dad used to play music from a lot of different artists from Sudan, this was my foundation – I’ve only realised that later on in my career. My passion for music also came from listening to a lot of radio, attending many concerts and being influenced by artists such as Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley and Michael Jackson. How would you describe the music that you make? I would describe it as ‘World Music’. Growing up in a city like Dubai, I’ve been exposed to sounds from different parts of the world, which has had a huge influence in 46_What’s On

the way I listen to music, and also how I write songs. I wouldn’t want to limit my music or myself to specific genres. I like to take my listeners to a different space.

Who are the artists, or people, who inspire you? I’ve gathered bits and pieces from artists like Stevie Wonder. I’ve been inspired by his ability to travel with his music across different generations. Another big inspiration is Michael Jackson and how effortless he made everything looked, but in fact it took years of hard work and dedication. My family and friends have always been my biggest supporters. They also inspire me to be great every day and write songs that help me

express myself. I believe an artist is someone who paints the world into something beautiful and has the ability to make an impact whether big or small. What are your latest musical accomplishments? I’ve experienced many moments that I would say are accomplishments, but to winning the What’s On Highly Commended Best Act Award 2020 was a huge highlight. Also, Dance Floor being No.1 in six countries

gap between the music in Africa and the type of music coming out from the region. During lockdown, especially when everything looked uncertain, I knew exactly what I needed to feel and hoped that this record would lift me up and get everyone enjoying themselves again.

“AN ARTIST PAINTS THE WORLD INTO SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL” on Anghami; headlining Bob Marley Tribute Festival in Oman back in 2019 and a tour I organised called “The1995Experience”. I was also the first to shoot a full music video on the world’s longest zipline. What is your creative process like? It is different when you first started making music? The first song I released was titled By your side. I remember performing it at every open mic in the city. I played it so many times that the crowd started singing it word for word. It was how I tested out unreleased records. A lot has changed since. The writing process now can easily happen in a studio or anywhere where a melody would come to mind, and I would build up on that. What has been the biggest obstacle of your career? One of the biggest obstacles is trying to pursue music full time. Many people have asked, and still do ask me what my real job is. Luckily, I’ve had huge support from my father since

I started pursuing music professionally. What would you say is the highlight of your career so far? I’ve recently performed at an all-original set at Expo 2020 Dubai at the Jubilee Stage – this was definitely the biggest highlight of my career to date. Where have you performed? From open mic nights to the biggest stages, I’ve performed all over the UAE and the region. My The1995ExperienceTour in 2019 went across Saudi, Oman, Sudan, Zimbabwe.

Which one of your releases is your favourite? It’s hard for me to choose one. Each of my releases holds a very special place in my heart. Are you working with any other artists right now? I’m currently working with a couple of artists and producers for my upcoming releases, which I’m really excited about. I’ve also been listening to Jamaican singer Chornixx for a while. It would be great to work on a song with him one day. Another artist I would like to work with in the near future is Wizkid, who I think is taking Afrobeats to the world. I’ve watched him live on many occasions. I know time is going to put us together on a record soon. What is an average day like for you? I’m a pretty chill person, I usually relax during the

week as I’m mostly on stage rocking crowds on weekends. What is your passion outside of music? I love football and I actually thought this was going to be my thing until I took the music route. I also love discovering new places, meeting people and spreading good vibes around the world. What does your involvement in the Regional Artist Spotlight mean to you? I’ve been watching this space for a while. It’s a great pleasure to be featured, and to every artist reading this, don’t ever stop doing what you love – you could be next. Most of the artists featured have inspired me. Shébani and Freek to name a few are my friends and they’re just beautiful souls. It’s definitely a great platform for artists in this region. I think it’s about time the world knows that there is a lot of great music coming from this side of the world. As artists, we just have to keep on putting the work in and always be willing to learn. q @jindiofficial | @RegionalArtistSpotlight

What are your latest releases? Hassa is my latest release. This record is my first ever release in Sudanese Arabic. I worked on this track with the legendary Nigerian producer MasterKraft and the song just came together naturally. The approach was to try something fresh where people have a good time. The song made me connect with my roots and also bridged a What’s On_47

CULTURE

22 TO SEE IN ‘22

FILM

NEW RELEASES

There’s plenty of cinematic joy to look forward to over the next 12 months, with sharp-edged dramas, ambitious blockbusters and, yes, several reboots ahead. Here’s a select few to put in your diaries…

JANUARY

SCREAM (January) Twenty-five years after a streak of murders shocked the town of Woodsboro, a new killer has donned the Ghostface mask and begins targeting teenagers.

MORBIUS (January) Ill with a rare blood disorder, and determined to save others suffering his same fate, Dr Morbius (Jared Leto) attempts a desperate gamble. What at first appears to be a success soon reveals itself to be a remedy potentially worse than the disease.

THE 355 (January) Five tough as nails women band together to stop a global organisation from acquiring a weapon that could thrust the world into total chaos.

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THE KING’S DAUGHTER (January) Follows King Louis XIV (Pierce Brosnan) in a tale of how the French monarch tries to achieve immortality by stealing the life force from a mermaid.

FEBRUARY

UNCHARTED (February)

DEATH ON THE NILE (February) Hercule Poirot’s (Kenneth Branagh) Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer turns into a terrifying search for a murderer when a picture-perfect couple’s idyllic honeymoon is tragically cut short.

Nathan Drake (Tom Holland), a descendant of explorer Sir Francis Drake, goes on a quest to seek the lost treasure of El Dorado.

MARCH

THE BATMAN (March) It’s Batman (Robert Pattinson) in his early years as he struggles to balance rage with righteousness while investigating a disturbing mystery that’s terrorised Gotham. Read our What’s On exclusive interview with the leads next month.

MAY DOG (February) Two former army rangers – one man (Channing Tatum) and a canine – hit the Pacific Coastal road together against their will to make it to a soldier’s funeral on time. Along the way, they’ll drive each other crazy, break a small handful of laws, and narrowly evade death.

DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA (March) The show’s combination of likeable characters, real struggles and posh soirées hits the big screen again, this time shifting the family to the South of France. Oo la la.

DC LEAGUE OF SUPER PETS (May) Krypto the Super-Dog (The Rock) and Superman (John Krasinski) are best friends, sharing the same superpowers and fighting crime. When Superman is kidnapped, Krypto must convince a rag-tag pack – a hound, pig, turtle and squirrel – to master their own powers and help him rescue his bestie.

LEGALLY BLONDE 3 (May) Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) returns in an all new female empowerment adventure. What’s On_49

CULTURE JUNE

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING (June) Deserted by her family, a young woman (Daisy Edgar-Jones) raises herself alone in the marshes outside of her small town. When her former boyfriend is found dead, she becomes the prime suspect for his murder.

TOP GUN: MAVERICK (June) After more than 30 years of service, Pete Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where he belongs, training a new squad of graduates for a dangerous mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice.

LIGHTYEAR (June) A sci-fi action-adventure and the origin story of Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Chris Evans), the hero who inspired the toy. The film reveals how a young test pilot became the Space Ranger that we know today. 50_What’s On

JURASSIC WORLD DOMINION (June) Picks up on the ending of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom when dinosaurs escaped captivity and into the rest of the world.

DECEMBER

JULY

THOR: LOVE AND THUNDER (July) Love, romance and a new female Thor as Chris Hemsworth and Natalie Portman return for more hammer time.

SEPTEMBER

NOVEMBER AVATAR 2 (December)

BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER

Avatar 2 will be set three years after the first film and focus on the lives of Jake (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Zaldana) as they explore the other moons of Polyphemus.

(November)

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE 7 (September) Mega stars and killer stunts as Tom Cruise returns as action spy Ethan Hunt for the seventh installment of this never-ending franchise.

HOCUS POCUS 2

The sequel continues to explore the incomparable world of Wakanda. It marks the first time we’ve returned to Wakanda since the tragic death of the film’s star Chadwick Boseman.

OCTOBER

(October)

PINOCCHIO

The Sanderson sisters are back with Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy reprising their 1993 classic characters Winifred, Sarah, and Mary Sanderson.

(November) A living puppet, with the help of a cricket (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) as his conscience, must prove himself worthy to become a real boy in a musical remake of the Disney animated classic.

SUPER MARIO BROS (December) An animated feature based on the popular Super Mario Bros. video game starring Chris Pratt as Mario and Charlie Day as Luigi.

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CULTURE

MR MISERABLE BRINGS HIS COMEDY ACT TO DUBAI

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T

hey say comedians can be some of the world’s most miserable people. Well, nobody proves that old adage more than Jack Dee. For someone who specialises in making people smile until their cheeks hurt, it is ironic that the only facial discomfort Dee feels is the wrinkling of his nose as he describes yet another thing that annoys him.

A stand-up comedian for almost 30 years and a regular fixture on TV panel shows in Britain, Dee brings his grumpy act to Dubai this month. Before a career in comedy, Dee was a waiter in London (we’re guessing he didn’t get many tips). One night he went to an open mic event at the famous Comedy Store and told

1 Cats are just dogs who’ve been to drama school.

some gags on stage. He quickly rose through the ranks and gave up the waiter job to go full time – much to the delight of the restaurant’s manager we imagine. What followed was critical acclaim, awards, sold out gigs, his Thanks For Nothing autobiography and, most recently, his very own self-help book with a typically snarky title, What is Your Problem? Here are some of Jack’s pearls of wisdom…

2

Shopping channels. I like to ring them up and say: ‘I’m just looking.’

3 My local’s rough as anything. I went to the pub quiz the other night – first question was, “What are you looking at?”

5

4 Studies show one in five British teens are unable to peel an orange. It’s a good job they’ve all got knives then.

Try saying: ‘Whale Oil Beef Hooked’ without sounding like an Irish man swearing.

6 If at first you don’t succeed you are clearly not cut out for it. Give up and move on.

JANUARY 19 a Jack Dee Off the Telly, Dubai Opera, Downtown

Dubai, Wednesday 7.30pm, from Dhs195. dubai. platinumlist.net

THEY SAY COMEDIANS CAN BE SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST MISERABLE PEOPLE What’s On_53

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SPORT + WELL-BEING + TRAVEL

PA G E 56

The best of Cairo How to embrace the chaos 48 HOURS IN HUNGARY p60 What’s On_55

A C T I V E

Embracing the chaos of

Cairo

The cultural heart of the Arab world, Cairo is not for the fainthearted. Loud, congested, polluted and frustrating, it nevertheless offers a wealth of beauty for those who are willing to delve into its ancient streets and alleyways

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Abou El Sid

Located on a nondescript side-street in the trendy district of Zamalek, at first glance Abou El Sid seems a little too underwhelming to even bother stepping inside. But the moment you push through its giant wooden doors, you are immediately transported to another world. Kitschy and dimly-lit, it’s one of those places where the dining experience is made all the better by the venue itself. There are ornate chandeliers, lanterns, shutters, and images of the icons of Egypt’s golden age of music and cinema. There are old culinary favourites, such as foul with tahini, kofta, koshari, and baba ghanoush, but push the boat out and try some of the specialities. These include mulukhiyah with rabbit and white rice, Circassian chicken in walnut sauce, and stuffed pigeon with freekeh. You won’t be disappointed.

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A C T I V E

TRAVEL // CAIRO

Muizz Street

A stone’s throw from the craziness that is Khan el-Khalili, Muizz Street runs north-to-south within the walled city of historic Cairo. It’s a double winner for any visitor. On the one hand it enables you to enjoy the hustle and bustle of one of the oldest streets in Cairo. On the other, it allows you to experience Islamic Cairo in all its glory. Approximately a kilometre in length, Al-Mu’izz li-Din Allah Al-Fatimi Street (that’s its full name) is lined with an embarrassment of architectural riches, including the Madrasa and Mausoleum of al-Salih Najm al-Din Ayyub, the Qalawun Complex, and the Beshtak Palace. If that’s not enough, it’s also within easy walking distance of both the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Al-Hussein Mosque.

Pyramids of Giza

No trip to Cairo would be complete without a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. To not walk up to the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, or the Great Sphinx of Giza would be like travelling to Athens and not visiting the Acropolis or the Parthenon. It’s just not the done thing. Perched perilously close to the edge of the modern city of Giza, the entire complex has been delighting travellers for centuries and still holds sway over millions of visitors every year. Viewing one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World in person can be a surreal experience and for an additional fee you can even enter the Great Pyramid of Giza. Doing so gives you access to the King’s Chamber, but be warned: the tiny passageways leading to the chamber can be cramped and claustrophobic.

Khan el-Khalili

Sobhy Kaber

Another culinary treat, Sobhy Kaber is the absolute bomb when it comes to dining out in Cairo. It’s not much to look at, just a large, garishly lit room in a modern glass-fronted building, but man does it do good food. Located in Rod El Farag and within easy walking distance of the Nile, to be honest it’s more theatre than restaurant. From the ridiculously long queues and the cavernous interior, to the grilled meats and kofta, be sure to come prepared for a performance. Make sure you try the mulukhiyah, which is served at your table with such a flourish that it’s worth all the queues and the wait in the world.

A sprawling warren of alleyways and traders that can bamboozle the uninitiated, Khan el-Khalili is Egypt’s most famous souq. It’s been around since the 14th century and is as crazy as you’d imagine a medieval Cairene bazaar to be. A hive of narrow lanes and small courtyards, the easiest thing to do is get lost. Everything from silverware and soap to antiques and alabaster pyramids are on sale, but if you’re looking for something in particular, do some research in advance. If not, just embrace the madness and haggle. Don’t even attempt to visit if you suffer from claustrophobia. Oh, and if fancy a coffee or a short respite, pop into El Fishawi, one of the oldest (it was first opened in 1797) cafes in Cairo.

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WHERE T O S TAY Four Seasons Cairo at The First Residence Perched on the western bank of the Nile, the Four Seasons Cairo at The First Residence is the perfect location from which to explore the city. Surrounded by lush botanical gardens and offering everything from a fourth-floor outdoor pool to nine restaurants and bars and a Turkish hammam, there’s really nothing more you could ask for. There’s a luxury mall connected to the hotel, too, which provides three floors of high-end boutique shopping, and a casino. For food lovers, however, the cherry on the cake is the First Nile Boat, which features a number of venues, including the pan-Asian restaurant Nairu and Xodó, a Brazilian churrascaria. We opted for the latter. If you’re going to do the same, make sure you’re hungry. The dishes come thick and fast at Xodó and it’s easy to overindulge in the first few rounds, such is the quality of the food. And that’s before you’ve even begun on the meat. Once the Angus beef strip loin churrasco, the marinated Australian lamb chops, the veal

and chicken sausage spirals with cuiabana cheese, and the beef bacon-wrapped turkey breasts are rolled out, well… it’s a meat lover’s heaven, isn’t it. All of which is served, of course, with a perfect Nile-side view. a Room rates for a Four Seasons Executive Suite start at $550 (bed only and excluding all applicable taxes and service charge). For a Superior Room, room rates start at $200. fourseasons.com/cairo

TRAVELLING TO CAIRO – HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 01 Travellers with a Covid‑19 vaccination certificate do not have to take a pre‑departure PCR test, so make sure to print your vaccination certificate before your flight. If you

are unvaccinated, you are required to present a negative PCR test, taken no longer than 72 hours before departure. Children under 12 do not require a negative PCR test.

02 All passengers must complete a health declaration form provided on board your flight. 03 To return to the UAE, you’ll need to present a negative PCR test, no older

than 72 hours. Test centres are open across Cairo.

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A C T I V E

TRAVEL // HUNGARY

Hungry for Hungary Budapest is more than just a nightlife hotspot. Explore the capital’s grungy but cool vibe on both sides of the Danube and find out what sets this European city apart

TO-DO LIST: H AV E A B AT H

No, we don’t mean sit in the bathtub of your hotel. We mean, make like the Romans and soak in a bath built centuries ago – it might just be the most glorious thing you’ll do in Budapest. The biggest is Szechenyi Baths, and one step inside will have you feeling like you’ve accidentally found your way onto the set of a Romanesque period film. The architecture is exquisite, the choice of baths enormous, and there’s a huge outdoor pool that makes for an incredibly relaxing Friday night in. If it’s more of a party that you want, luckily you can just stay in the water; Budapest’s weekend spa parties are the stuff of many an Eastern Europe backpacker’s campfire stories. q szechenyispabaths.com

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DIVE INTO LAKE HEVIZ DON’T LEAVE HUNGARY WITHOUT EATING 01

Goulash (gulyas)

VISIT PA R L I A M E N T Getting political on holiday might not sound particularly exhilarating, but you’ll understand when you see the Hungarian Parliament Building: the place is enormous. Known as one of the most beautiful legislative buildings in the world, this architectural behemoth has 691 rooms, 29 staircases, 27 gates and 10 courtyards. At 96 metres high, it rivals the grand St Stephen’s Basilica as the tallest building in the city. NonEU citizens can take a guided tour for HUF5,200 (Dhs66) to experience the grandeur first-hand. q hungarianparliament.com

VISIT A RUIN BAR

A dilapidated watering hole probably doesn’t sound like the stuff of dreams but get past the crumbling exterior (and interior, actually) and you’ll wander into the ultimate hipster hangout. The venues inside are typically in a crumbling façade, with walls covered in bizarre doodles and décor featuring hanging bicycles, disembodied mannequins, car parts and even a Chucky doll or two. q ruinpubs.com

GET ME THERE:

Emirates flies direct to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport from Dhs2,495 return. q emirates.com

Probably the most famed of all Hungarian dishes, you simply can’t go to Budapest and not have goulash. Somewhere between a soup and a stew, peppered with the Hungarian people’s favourite spice (paprika), and filled with meat and vegetables, this is the ultimate winter dish. Pro tip: get one in a bread bowl. Eat it at: Getto Gulyas (Dhs16 for two-course meal of the day and drink), Wesselényi u. 18 02

Langos You simply have not known true love until you’ve eaten deep-fried bread topped with garlic, cheese, some form of meat, and a generous smattering of sour cream. If you’re on a diet: cancel it. Eat it at: Retro Langos Bufe (Dhs9), Podmaniczky Frigyes tér 4 03

Kurtos Kalacs The original Chimney Cake may have been birthed in Transylvania, but the sweet, cylindrical, cinnamon and sugar bread spread throughout Hungary like wildfire and is now their most beloved dessert. The best ones are coated in nuts or chocolate. Eat it at: Just about any food stall in the city.

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Photo: Getty

If you want to travel out of town, Lake Heviz is a fantastic option. Two hours southwest of Budapest, Heviz is the second-largest thermal lake in the world. On a sunny day there’s nothing better than grabbing an inflatable donut and floating around. There are also mud, salt and ice baths, a spa, and several indoor pools. q heviz.hu/lake-heviz

WIN!

A NIGHT’S STAY AT PARK REGIS KRIS KIN HOTEL Explore Dubai’s rich history by enjoying a one-night stay for two people at Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel where cultural attractions, including Bur Dubai Market, Dubai Museum and Dubai Creek are within a short distance of the hotel. The prize, worth Dhs1,200, is inclusive of a night inside a superior room – complete with all the usual mod cons – plus breakfast for you and your guest at all-day dining restaurant

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Kris with a View. The lucky winner will also receive lunch for two at Indian dining restaurant Masala Bazaar. Paying tribute to flavours from every region, Masala Bazaar takes guests on a culinary journey through the beautiful nation of India, blending age-old recipes with reimagined contemporary twists.

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

WIN! A TWO-NIGHT STAY AT RADISSON BLU ABU DHABI

For a luxurious city staycation, this prize from Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi ticks all the boxes. One lucky winner and a guest will get to spend two nights in a luxurious room at the hotel as well as enjoy a brunch for two at West Bay. Expect a culinary lineup served family-style with live entertainment and several pop-up bars. But there’s even more to this prize. The winner will also receive Dhs500 credit to spend at the newly opened lounge bar, Vertigo. With alluring views, carefully curated beverages, a specialised foodie menu and live entertainment from Ukrainian DJ Elena, Vertigo is the perfect nightlife spot to drink, dine and dance the night away.

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

What’s On_63

WIN!

DINNER FOR FOUR AT QWERTY We’ve teamed up with cheeky boutique hotel Media One to offer one lucky reader and three mates the chance to enjoy dinner at Qwerty. A particular favourite among the What’s On crew, this neighbourhood gastro bar is a popular haunt for Dubai’s creative types with a menu of filling favourites (we love the chicken schnitzel) and new takes on old classics.

q  For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win 64_What’s On

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LASTMINUTE TRIP Florida feels right here in Dubai We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to lavish hotels in Dubai, but there’s an exciting new development on the Palm Jumeirah that needs your attention. Say ‘hello’ to Th8 Palm, the Miami Beachinspired luxury resort.

The location Th8 Palm is located on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah, meaning it has stunning sea views on both sides of the hotel with those beach holiday feels that make you feel like you’ve escaped the bustle of the city, if only for a night.

The look and feel The hotel is inspired by the Sunshine State’s most bustling city, Miami, and this is evident upon arrival from its glistening gold glass exteriors. The aesthetics of the lobby, restaurant, rooms and pool combine the simple with the eclectic, with decor ‘inspired by the fashion, glamour, jet-set lifestyle and art deco scene of Miami Beach’. The breezy, open-air building keeps the beach vibes flowing throughout.

The rooms Th8 Palm is a boutique all-suite resort, comprising 121 lovely and comfortable suites, each with gorgeous sea views. It’s worth noting that each suite comes with a fully equipped kitchen, but who stays at a hotel to cook?

The facilities The Fluid Beach Club pool here is very chic, with vibrant red parasols and white sun beds. DJs and dancers turn up the heat in the afternoon, while wonderfully whimical lotus ice creams are served poolside. Elsewhere, there’s a volleyball net on the beach and a fullyequipped gym. 66_What’s On

“THE HOTEL IS INSPIRED BY THE SUNSHINE STATE’S MOST BUSTLING CITY...” The food and drinks

The room rates

The Envy bar and restaurant is a stylish place to hang out. It serves up some excellent pizza and pasta dishes, while, in the morning, there’s a breakfast buffet, serving everything from croissants and cooked breakfasts to fluffy pancakes, made to order.

Rates at The8 Palm start from Dhs1,788 per night for a one-bedroom suite for two guests. a Th8 Palm, Crescent Road West, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Tel: (0)4 5258888. accor.com| @the8palm

A WHOLE NEW EXPERIENCE

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

Si t u ate d o n the golden sands of Le Meridien A b u Dh ab i , over l ook i n g th e g l i tter i n g water s of th e A ra bia n G ul f, Myko no s is a st ep away from it all. I nspir ed by th e en er g y of M y kon os Is l an d , th e war m th of the sun a n d t he pa s s io n o f t he A rabian Gulf, Mykonos i s rooted i n val u es an d con n ecti on . Located at Le M er idia n Vi l l age , the o rga nic, eart hy and grounded beach s i d e r es tau ran t an d b ar i s al l - en com p as s i n g , b r i n g ing the ult imat e st at e of relaxat ion an d h ol i d ay v i b e, f rom d ay to n i g h t. An a l l-ro und ho liday feel, connect , underst and , i n v i te an d em b race. Wi th s m ooth , u p l i f ti n g b eats f rom live D J ’s a nd unbe a ta b le views of t he t ranquil A ra b i an Gu l f , M y kon os i s th e u l ti m ate d es ti n ati on f or th at lo ng lazy lunch, sunset d i n n er or even i n g b everag es . For more informat ion or t o m ake a r es er vati on , cal l + 971 50 785 2320 or Email: mykon os . l m ad @ad n h m c. com

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Introducing an electrifying brunch complete with live entertainment, Arabian Gulf Views & Al Fresco Dining serving Mediterranean fusion cuisine to the table.

AED 325 soft package AED 495 house package including resort access AED 595 bubbly package including resort access Price is inclusive of all applicable service charges, local fees, and taxes and on selected drinks

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WEST BAY ABU DHABI Tel: 02 692 4375 | westbay.abudhabi@adnhmc.com