What's On Dubai - January 2024

EAT YOUR WAY AROUND

UAE DHS15

Kids eat for free at this new foodie destination – plus you could win a family holiday worth Dhs25,000…

Kids eat for FREE At Expo City Dubai 8th Jan – 18th Feb 2024

One free kid’s meal with every adult meal!*

Scan here to book now

*Terms & Conditions apply: Offer valid at participating venues only from 8 January till February 18, 2024

UAE DHS15

PLUS: ED SHEERAN, FUNCTIONAL FITNESS, AND INSIDE THE NEW CINEMA AKIL…

CONTENTS

24 GRAND DESIGNS DROPPING IN 2024 P17 25 WITNESS THE FITNESS How to get functionally fit in Dubai

31 ED-UCATION

25 31

To celebrate the Dubai dates of his Mathematics tour, we look at the songs and thoughts that sum up Ed Sheeran

Page 44 Dry Dubai: the city’s best mocktails

4 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Cover and illustration:

Sheila Deocareza

Stay in touch

36 REGULARS

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.

Page 13

10 YALLA! The best things to do in Dubai this month

13 THROUGH MY EYES Virgin Radio’s Maz Hakim opens her little black book

66

74 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT We check out a new Address in Fujairah

59

ACTIVE

35

60 ON THE RUN

CONSUME What’s On finds a Soul food mate in DIFC

38 VEGAN Pizzas, burgers, tacos, shakes – but make them Veganuary compliant

Lace-up your trainers for these big January runs

54 51

CULTURE

65

TRAVEL 66 NEW HOTELS

42 BRUNCH

54 CINEMA PARADISO

Check-in and check-out the best new global hotels for 2024

How Jun’s is doing brunch differently

A look behind the scenes of Cinema Akil’s new release

68 BERLIN How to travel green in the German capital

Find us on social Photo credit: Getty Images, Unsplash and supplied

36 EAT

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

WhatsOnDubai

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 5

ADVERTISEMENT

IS THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR FAMILY DINING Eat your way around Expo City Dubai and win a family holiday worth Dhs25,000

KIDS EAT FOR FREE The festive season can leave your wallet feeling a little light, so if you’re looking for family-friendly places to stay, play and dine this January, Expo City Dubai is the place to be. Launching with an impressive collection of 28 new seasonal restaurants to try, they’re bringing together flavours from around the world in one all-encompassing culinary destination, guaranteeing something to suit all tastes. Say goodbye to having nothing to do as you kick off the new year, and make your way to Expo City Dubai, where brilliant wallet-friendly deals await for the little ones.

With Expo City Dubai offering free entry to all pavilions for ages 12 and below, amazing edu-tainment opportunities are on hand for young minds to grow and get inspired. And all that boredom-busting creative fun will have them working up an appetite. But family dining doesn’t have to mean splashing the cash, as many of Expo City’s new restaurants are offering a free kids meal for children under 12 when you purchase an adult meal.

The kids eat free offer is available from January 1 to February 18 at 20 restaurants across Expo City, inviting you to tick them off one by one...

T H E R ESTAU RA N TS O F F E R I N G “ K I DS E AT FO R F R E E ” I N C LU D E …

WIN

•Alkebulan – The world’s first African foodhall by top Chef Alexander Smalls •Assembly – Chef Athanasios Kargatziids puts his heart and soul into a restaurant specialising in mezze and skewers •Floozie Cookies – Chef Kimberly Lin’s indulgent vegan stuffed cookie brand •Gup & Shup – Aromatic Indian street food from Michelin starred Chef Rohit Ghai •Lilly’s Café – Wellness meets whimsy at this picturesque café famous for afternoon tea •Alif Café – Redefined grab and go offereings •PXB – A rooftop café with a plant-focused menu •The Daily at Rove – An international menu in a laidback setting •Philly Jawn – The UAE debut of Philadelphian favourite, where the world-famous Philly Cheesesteak meets the legendary Ghostburger and wings •Q Coffee – A beacon of sustainable and ethical coffee culture

•Reform Social & Grill – A beloved Dubai gastropub famous for its Sunday roasts •Safar – Chef Sara Aqel fuses her Palestinian roots with Italian cuisine and a touch of Mediterranean influence •Hideaway – The brainchild of Chef Ollie Dabbous, of Mayfair’s Michelin-starred Hide •To:st – Possibly the world’s best toasted sandwiches •Ajeene – Chef Faisal Naser’s authentic Levantine street food •Ecco Pizza & Pasta – Authentic Neapolitan pizza and pastas •Talhan – A traditional Turkmenistan dining experience •Grand Beirut – A gateway to the culinary charms of Lebanon’s capital •Wofl – Wholesome sweet and savoury waffle sandwiches •Yamanote Collective – An authentic Japanese bakery meets Mimi San Ramen

AN UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY GETAWAY* Be further rewarded with a culinary journey around Expo City Dubai, as you stand to win a family holiday worth Dhs25,000. Eat your way around Expo City Dubai between January 8 and February 18, and one lucky foodie family will secure themselves a dream getaway.

HOW TO ENTER lSimply download your “Eat your way around Expo City Dubai” stamp card from the QR code below and store your digital card on your phone or device. lEvery time you eat or drink in a restaurant or café, you’ll receive a digital stamp. When all 20 stamps are complete, you’ll automatically be entered into the draw to win a holiday of a lifetime. lDigital stamps can be redeemed at all participating restaurants. *T&Cs Apply

S CA N M E

expocitydubai.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER & GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne

EDITORIAL

COMMERCIAL

GROUP EDITOR – WHAT’S ON Alice Holtham

PUBLISHER David Burke

alice.holtham@motivate.ae

davidb@motivate.ae

DEPUTY EDITOR, DUBAI Miles Buckeridge

GROUP SALES MANAGER Varsha Bhatia

miles.buckeridge@motivate.ae

varsha@motivate.ae

DEPUTY EDITOR, ABU DHABI Dinesh Ramanathan

GROUP SALES MANAGER Violeta Popescu

dinesh.ramanathan@motivate.ae

violeta.popescu@motivate.ae

ONLINE REPORTER Aarti Saundalkar

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

ONLINE REPORTER Jumira Hancock ONLINE REPORTER Tamara Wright JUNIOR REPORTER Shelby Gee JUNIOR REPORTER Afrah Bari JUNIOR REPORTER Manaal Fatimah

DESIGN ART DIRECTOR Sheila Deocareza

CONTRIBUTOR Laura Coughlin

PRODUCTION GENERAL MANAGER – PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CREATIVE STUDIO CONTENT PRODUCTION MANAGER Surajit Dutta CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Mark Mathew CREATIVE CONTENT ARTIST Ahmed Abdelwahab

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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 Dubai Media City: SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai, UAE, Tel: +971 4 390 3550 Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: +971 2 677 2005, E-mail: editor-wo@motivate.ae Saudi Arabia: Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, KSA, Tel: +966 11 834 3595 / +966 11 834 3596, Email: motivate@motivate.ae London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, Email: motivateuk@motivate.ae

8 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

EDITOR’S LETTER

I’M VERY EXCITED FOR THIS YEAR

Ever the optimist, I probably say that most January’s as we usher in a new year. But this year is going to be particularly special.

As I’ve mentioned many times before, I’m getting married this year. After nearly two years of planning, I couldn’t be more excited to have the stress melt away and embrace all of the magic and madness that will come with having 60 of our nearest and dearest all together.

Before that, I’m also celebrating a milestone birthday, turning the big 3-0 in February. Of all the advice I’ve received about it, the piece that sticks with me the most is that your thirties are for worrying less and enjoying more. I’m making it my 10-year mission to focus on the meaningful, and not to sweat the small stuff.

Speaking of birthdays, I’m not the only one with a big birthday in 2024. This year, What’s On celebrates 45 years of bringing you boredom-busting news, entertainment, reviews and more from the UAE. It’s incredible to think that 15 years before I was born, What’s On began captivating readers, providing an essential outlet for residents to discover what was happening as the country began its dazzling transformation. And we’ve got so much in store for you, our brilliant readers, this year. We’ll regularly be reflecting on some of our best bits from across the last almost half century, plus throwing plenty of celebrations along the way. It starts this issue, with a preview of two dozen epic events, attractions, hotels, and experiences all landing in the emirates in the next twelve months, which you can find from p17. Trust us – you won’t want to miss a minute of it.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Fedora Hat, Sketch Dubai Dhs190. sketch-dubai.com

Corrale straightener, Dyson Dhs1,999. dyson.ae

Love Heart Enamel Necklace, Bil Arabi Dhs2,730. thatconceptstore.com

Ever Glow Moisturiser, Peacefull Dhs215. peacefull.com

Enjoy the issue,

The Jean-Paul Hamper, Truffleers Dhs350. truffleers.com

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 9

NON-STOP BEATS AT BREAK THE BLOCK

When: January 26 Non-stop beats, cool vibes and incredibly delicious pop-ups, Break the Block is back, bringing a string of top local acts to Expo City for non-stop music fun.

Tickets start from Dhs195. breaktheblock.me

YALL A

BRILLIANT THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN JANUARY Words: Shelby Gee

MARVEL AT THE GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY

When: January 25 to February 4 Ever wanted to see your favourite superhero’s in person? This is your ultimate opportunity because Marvel Universe Live will be taking on the Coca-Cola Arena for an iconic hero v villain battle.

Tickets start from Dhs165. platinumlist.net

10 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

COUNTING STARS AT BLA BLA WITH ONEREPUBLIC

When: January 25 American rockers OneRepublic will light up the stage at Bla Bla this month, bringing with them an epic repertoire of hits. The genre-blurring, six-piece band are behind tracks like Counting Stars, Good Life and Love Runs Out. It’s not too late to Apologize, just get your tickets now, from Dhs245. livenation.me

BELLY ACHING COMEDY WITH SCHALK BEZUIDENHOUT

TOTALLY TUBULAR BELLS

When: January 26 and January 27 Known for his comedy show on Netflix and all-over social media, comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout will perform two gigs in Dubai. He will have you Feeling Good, Feeling Positive at Al Habtoor Polo Resort and the Movenpick Jumeirah Beach, with tickets priced from Dhs160. platinumlist.net

When: January 12 Experience the bold and progressive fusion of tubular bells by Mike Oldfield. It’s a journey of music through the genres – we’re talking classical, jazz, folk and more at the Dubai Opera. The tribute will feature a full band conducting arrangements by Oldfield himself. Tickets start from Dhs225. platinumlist.net

HEROES PUTTING IN THE DESERT SAND

When: January 18 to 21 The Hero Dubai Desert Classic returns to Emirates Golf Club, complete with its biggest and best range of entertainment and hospitality to date. Of course, there’ll be plenty of golf, too. General admission is free. dubaidesertclassic.com

FOOD, ART AND FUN AT QUOZ ARTS FEST When: January 27 and January 28 One of Dubai’s favourite festivals returns to Alserkal Avenue. We’re talking food vendors, art installations music and lots more. Tickets start from Dhs63. alserkal.online

POPPIN’ FUN AT THE BUBBLE RUN

CHECK-IN TO A FANTASTIC NEW HOTEL

When: Throughout January The long awaited One&Only Za’abeel will welcome its first guests from January 2024. As well as the brand’s showstopping signatures, gourmands will be treated to the culinary mastery of top international chefs at restaurants including La Dame De Pic, StreetXO and Qabu by Paco Morales. oneandonlyresorts.com

When: January 20 Happening at Expo City this year, the non-competitive run is open to all, with 4km and 8km routes to try dotted with multiple bubble zones.

Participants will be covered head to toe with foam exploding from giant cannons.

Tickets start from Dhs35. @bubblerunuae

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 11

WHAT’S ON Revisiting a brunch icon…

Bubbalicious If you ask me about the one brunch everyone needs to go to in Dubai, I always say Bubbalicious.

They’ve recently added some luxe elevations like a caviar room, ‘ring for Champagne’ wall, and a concise cooked-to-order menu. It’s the most extensive and decadent offering in the city. @westindubai – Alice Holtham, Group Editor

Adding to my scent collection with the UAE National Day fragrance edition from… flowwow I’m a perfume mega fan and I absolutely adore the fragrance collection from flowwow released for UAE National Day. There are seven bottles in the box, each inspired by the seven emirates in the UAE, and they all have a different scent. My favourites were Sharjah and Fujairah. @flowwow – Aarti Saundalkar, Online Reporter

Revisiting films that used to terrify me, like… Scary Movie I was recently coerced into watching Scary Movie. As a tween, this film scared the living daylights out of me, but this time around I realised just how ridiculous the franchise really is. Safe to say I will now avoid re-watching them again.

Watch it on @netflixmena – Shelby Gee, Junior Reporter

Being happily influenced at… L’ETO Caffe A recurring discussion in my house these past few weeks has been the milk cake at the L’ETO Caffe, because my mother saw it on Instagram and decided she needed to have it her life. I had predicted it would be delicious, and being the genius I am, I was absolutely right. @letocaffe.official – Manaal Fatimah, Junior Reporter 12 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Unveiling our new podcast… Reborn in Dubai It’s been a team-collaborated labour of love getting the very first What’s On podcast series off the ground and on the air, but you can now listen to the first few episodes wherever you get your podcasts. It’s a series that shares the genesis stories from some of the region’s brightest expat entrepreneurs, thought leaders, community champions, and innovators.

Listen on Spotify – Miles Buckeridge, Deputy Editor, What’s On Dubai

Enjoying a new comic...

Eagerly Awaiting your Irrational Response Scott Adams’ own version of an MBA has graced my bookshelf for a long time, and he’s back with his newest collection of Dilbert comic strips, called Eagerly Awaiting your Irrational Response. This time, he has a go at corporate communication practices with all the usual suspects getting in on the action. @bookskinokuniyauae – Dinesh Ramanathan, Deputy Editor, What’s On Abu Dhabi

Filling up on pasta at…

Signor Sassi I have a very long list of new restaurants in Dubai on my bucket list, and recently ticked London’s famous Signor Sassi, which opened on the Palm in October, off it. If I had to choose my top dishes, I’d say the octopus salad, truffle ravioli, and the Wagyu beef fillet with mushroom sauce were worth the food coma. @signorsassidubai – Tamara Wright, Online Reporter

Through MY EYES

T H E UAE ACCOR D ING TO...

E

MAZ HAKIM

ach month, we ask residents to share a guide to the UAE through their eyes, from their must-try restaurants and standout attractions, to favourite staycations and hidden gems. This month, we chat to Maz Hakim (@mazzhakim), Virgin Radio’s resident ray of sunshine and host of The Vibe with Maz Hakim. Here she shares some of her top spots that you need on your radar.

My local hidden gem is Çeşme Bazlama Kahvaltı in Al Safa. I first visited Bazlame in Cesme, Turkey, so I was very happy when they opened in Dubai recently. The Turkish breakfast experience is fantastically authentic, with a array of colourful dishes, homemade bread and jam, unlimited tea and gozleme (which is not very good for the waistline but a wonderful experience). @bazlamakahvalti.ae My go to staycation spot is Mövenpick Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khamiah. This hotel is a total slice of paradise – they even imported the sand on the beach from the Maldives, so it feels so silky when you walk barefoot across it. It’s a must-visit place that has a piece of my heart. @movenpickalmarjan

I’ve been to a lot of fancy restaurants, but I return time and again to Bosnian House. I love that I can go wearing my sneakers and sit on the couches on the floor while having the most delicious traditional meal. It’s frills-free and such a wholesome experience. @bosnian.house

Everyone should visit Al Seef when they come to Dubai, it’s particularly wonderful in winter. You feel like you’ve been teleported to a different century. It’s so artistic, so stunning, right by the water.

Perfect for instagram or a casual stroll. @alseefdubai

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s Talise Spa is my favourite spa. This place is magic and like walking into a Pinterest board. You can spend your entire day here and have a full Ottoman-style spa experience in total luxury. I’ve been going to this spa for 10 years, and I’ve taken a lot of the fluffy slippers home with me! @jumeirahzs

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 13

FEBRUARY 2001

IAN FAIRSERVICE Managing Partner & Group Editor

In February 2001, a golfing great graced the cover of What’s On. Ahead of his first time competing at the Dubai Desert Classic that March, Tiger Woods played a starring role on our February cover.

World number one at the time, he happily posed Charlie Chaplinstyle for the cover, which I still consider to be one of our best, 550 covers in.

That year, Woods lost out on the title to Thomas Björn, a winter resident in the Emirate. But he wasn’t done. Woods would go on to grace the cover of What’s On several more times, including in 2006 and 2008, the two years he claimed the Desert Classic title.

I had the pleasure of meeting Tiger Woods on several occasions at the winners reception, as part of Motivate Media Group’s – then known as Motivate Publishing – sponsorship of the event.

It’s a partnership that began from the first tournament in 1989 and continues to this day. As What’s On celebrates its milestone 45th anniversary, the Dubai Desert Classic will mark the event’s 35th anniversary in 2024.

While it’s been 35 years since the first Dubai Desert Classic, the iconic Emirates Golf Club course on which it’s played first got the green light several years prior. The Tiger Woods

THEN

NOW

then Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, gave his approval for the development of a grass golf course in the desert in 1986. The innovative project opened two years later in March 1988, paving the way for the establishment of a world-class golf tournament, now known as the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.

This year, the tournament will see world number two Rory McIlroy (coincidentally Woods’ successor for the title in 2009) look to defend his 2023 win. He’ll be up against stiff competition though.

American Major winner Brian Harman and rising PGA Tour star Cameron Young will both make their debuts at the tournament, while European Ryder Cup stars Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrrell Hatton are both returning to tee it up.

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic returns to Emirates Golf Club from January 18 to 21. As always, What’s On is thrilled to be a part of it.

Emirates Golf Club then and now

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 15

Opposite Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah 2, Dubai, Daily 24 hours.

Call:800 47 229. @huqqabazdubai

Mall of the Emirates, Ground Floor Harvey Nicholsand THAT concept store entrance, Dubai. 10am to 4am.

Tel:800 47 229. @huqqabazgarden

2 0 24 P R E V I E W

WORDS: ALICE HOLTHAM

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 17

2 0 24 P R E V I E W

LA MER TRANSFORMS INTO J1 BEACH

WHAT’S ON CELEBRATES ITS 45TH ANNIVERSARY

What’s On Awards

We know, we look good for our age, but June 2024 will mark 45 years since the debut issue of What’s On came out. While the city might have changed somewhat since our launch in 1979, our passion to bring you the latest news, reviews, and insider info from across the emirates has always remained fresh. So as we continue to do that in our 45th year, we’ll also be making sure to celebrate with you - our loyal readers - in style. Birthday events, mega giveaways, and some special surprises are all heading your way. So stay tuned... @whatsondubai

WE’LL BE RIDING THE WAVES IN ABU DHABI

FIVE LUXE

A HEDONISTIC PARTY HOTEL WILL UP THE LUXE IN JBR Welcoming guests from the first quarter of 2024, FIVE LUXE is the new opening from Dubai-born FIVE Hotels & Resorts in the city. As well as all the best bits of the Palm Jumeirah property – the iconic social pool, a firm focus on culinary excellence and a sparkling beach club – there will be some exclusive additions specifically for the new luxury address. FIVE LUXE will boast 222 luxury rooms and suites and 277 opulent residences, with some seriously plush suites for guests to splash out on including the Writer Suite, Musician Suite and regal Royal Suite. In true FIVE style, you can expect a best-in-class culinary offering, with an array of restaurants and nightlife venues all designed to wow guests. So far, we know this will include sizzling Ibiza cabaret club, Lío. @fiveluxedubai

18 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

It’s goodbye La Mer South and hello J1 Beach, a chic new destination home to three beach clubs and nine restaurants. New shoreline leisure treasures include Sirene Beach by Gaia, Cannes hotspot Bâoli, and St Tropez mainstay Gigi Rigolatto, complete with Mediterranean garden, Bellini bar, pétanque court and a charming concept store. On the restaurant front, expect openings like African Queen, from the team that brought us Beefbar; Tulum-born Gitano; and Sakhalin, a Michelin Star restaurant from Moscow. @j1beach

Set to open in early 2024, Surf Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced artificial wave facility in the world, and it’s just the first crest of an expansive Modon masterplan for Hudayriyat Island. The transformation project will also see Hudayriat become home to a regional first velodrome, and the biggest urban park in Abu Dhabi.

With the potential to host big tour competitions and offering up the artificial surfing world’s longest ride, biggest barrel, as well as the largest man-made wave pool, this truly is radical class water sporting. But it’s not just for seasoned surf bros, the facility will also offer thrills for newbies and aspiring Point Breakers with literally zero chance of you getting mangled on a sand bar. All of which will undoubtedly make this one of the best places for surfing in the UAE. @surfabudhabi

FESTIVAL FANS WILL GET LOUD AS UNTOLD BECOMES DUBAI’S FIRST MEGA FESTIVAL Untold music festival, a stalwart on the hedonistic European festival scene, is headed to Dubai for the first time in February 2024, bringing four days of epic music madness to Expo City. On the bill at Dubai’s first mega music festival from February 15 to 18, incredible headliners include Ellie Goulding, G-Eazy, Major Lazer, Armin Van Buuren, Bebe Rexha, Don Diablo, Paul Kalkbrenner, Timmy Trumpet and Hardwell. This is just the first phase of artists, with the full bill set to feature some 100 artists across music genres from top DJs to hiphop stars, alternative rockers and pop royalty.

Four-day, general admission tickets start from Dhs700. @untoldfestivaldubai Untold music festival

A NEW HINDU TEMPLE WILL WELCOME WORSHIPPERS IN THE CAPITAL Abu Dhabi’s BAPS Hindu temple will have its grand inauguration in February 2024. The Middle East’s first traditional Hindu stone temple is made of pink sandstone and stunning white marble, atop 27 acres of land. First announced in 2019, four years of meticulous work by artisans in India and the UAE will soon come to fruition in Abu Dhabi’s Abu Mureikha area. People of all faiths will be welcome to visit the temple, which has been decorated with more than 200 ornate pillars. @abudhabimandir

BAPS Hindu temple

RAS AL KHAIMAH GETS A SLICE OF MALDIVIAN LUXURY We’ve been writing about the opening of Anantara Mina Al Arab for years, and it’s finally happening.

This stunning Anantara eco-resort will be located in the new Mina Al Arab district along the coast of Ras Al Khaimah. Accepting reservations from January, it will boast 174 guest rooms, suites and overwater villas (Maldivian style). A duo of signature restaurants, Mekong and Beach House, will both open within the property. Completing the culinary line-up will be an all-day dining restaurant, pool bar and an elegant lobby lounge. If relaxing is at the top of your agenda, you’ll be able to unwind in the stunning luxury Anantara Spa. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool with sunken bar, watersports and padel tennis courts, perfect for an active stay. @anantararasalkhaimah

Sanskara

WELLNESS GETS A NEW HOME IN DUBAI Welcome to Sanskara, a wellness space, day retreat and chic eatery, opening its doors in Jumeirah. Transforming a multi-storey villa in Al Safa 2, Sanskara promises a ‘simple, clean, conscious and mindful approach’ through an accessible, diverse and inclusive wellness offering. Inviting guests to come for breakfast, lunch or dinner will be Sanskara’s conscious eatery, offering a menu packed with clean, locally-sourced dining options. Whether guests are coming for a power hour of self-reflection in the lounge, or wish to curl up with a book in the open-air library, Sanskara promises spaces for all occasions. More serious wellness aficionados can look forward to ice baths, infrared saunas and even a biohacking room, with cutting-edge wellness experiences taking centre stage. @sanskaradxb WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 19

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AN ICONIC HOTEL BRAND WILL MAKE ITS DUBAI DEBUT First announced in 2018, for its 10th property worldwide, Dorchester Collection will open The Lana in Dubai’s Business Bay in February 2024. The striking 30-storey tower will house 225 ultra-luxury guest rooms – 69 of them suites – which will ooze contemporary-chic with triple height ceilings, plush furnishings in gold, beige and olive and deep-soaking bathtubs. The hotel’s facilities include a wellness centre with a gym and spa, and a collection of no less than eight restaurants and bars, several of which come with global acclaim.

Among them, guests can enjoy the finest Basque flavours at Jara, an 18th floor restaurant from Michelin-lauded Spanish chef Martín Berasategui; and Riviera by Jean Imbert, a fourth floor restaurant that promises a taste of the Mediterranean.

Room rates starting from Dhs3,900 per night. @thelanadubai

Ed Sheeran

The Lana

A LONDON-LOVED CRAZY GOLF CLUB LANDS ON BLUEWATERS Dubai, get ready to par-tee: London’s popular crazy golf venue Swingers is opening on Bluewaters Island in 2024. For those who aren’t familiar with the concept, Swingers is an adults-only venue with four nine-hole crazy golf courses, street food from renowned vendors, an extensive drinks menu for post-putt cocktails, and live DJs creating a party atmosphere. At its London locations, Swingers offers a variety of promotions including brunch, unlimited drinks options, and party packages for large groups, so we can expect the same will be found in the Dubai version next year.

A BEAUTIFUL PLACE OF WORSHIP WILL BE BUILT ON THE DUBAI CANAL A first-of-its-kind floating mosque will open at Dubai Canal in 2024.

The mosque will feature three floors and a submerged prayer hall, able to accommodate 50 to 75 worshippers. With the third floor being underwater, the other two floors above water will have a hall for Islamic lectures and workshops. The design of the mosque shows an indoor male seating area and a coffee shop with outdoor seating on the bottom level. The top level has indoor and outdoor seating areas for ladies. The mosque will welcome people of all faiths to visit and explore.

WE’LL BE THINKING OUT LOUD HOW GREAT ED SHEERAN IS LIVE He’s one of the biggest pop stars on the planet, and you’ll be able to sing along to all of Ed Sheeran’s biggest tunes when he performs two nights at The Sevens Stadium on January 19 and 20. The British musician will take the stage with tour guest Calum Scott to deliver some of his biggest, record-breaking hits, as well as tracks from his new albums, Autumn Variations and ‘-‘ (Deluxe), released in 2023. He will perform in ‘the round’, his signature format featuring a 360-degree central stage, giving the fans a chance to surround the musician and witness his set in an immersive, closeup experience. Tickets start from Dhs495. edsheerandxb.com 20 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

BE IMMERSED IN THE WORLD OF DIGITAL ART AT A NEW ATTRACTION Arte Museum is a new immersive art space opening soon at Dubai Mall. It is created by a world-class digital media design company – d’strict, the creative masterminds behind the mesmerising public media art ‘Wave’ at Coex in Seoul.

Although we don’t know much right now, the artworks we will see will be brought to life using the latest media technologies paired with stunning visual creativity. The immersive display will allow visitors to ‘experience nature unconstrained by time and space.’ @artemuseum_dubai

Timbuktu Market

LUX* Al Bridi Resort

WE’LL BE ABLE TO TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE WITH A SHARJAH STAYCATION If a staycation with a side of animal-tastic adventure is on your 2024 travel bucket list, then pack your bags for LUX* Al Bridi Resort, an invitation to immerse yourself in nature. A stunning eco-resort set within the expansive Sharjah Safari, it will feature one, two and three-bedroom glamping tents with a five-star feel, designed to blend seamlessly into the surroundings. Further upscale facilities will include a gym, spa, pool, restaurant and a kids club, although much of the experience will lie within the surrounding nature reserve. Here, up close encounters with the Big Five are all part of the package. @luxresorts

1Rebel

WE’LL BE WORKING UP A SWEAT AT A SECOND SERVING OF THE ‘KING OF GYMS’ After bursting onto the DIFC fitness scene at the end of 2022, 1Rebel will bring its calorie-busting super workouts to a new crowd when it opens in Dubai Marina in 2024.

The next piece in the puzzle at W Dubai - Mina Seyahi, this ultimate sports-luxe fitness experience will be set out over a 2,500 square metre, dual-storey studio, and will invite fitness fans to be put through their paces with an array of sweat-inducing classes. Some will be familiar to those that work out in DIFC, others will be brand new for the Dubai market. We’ve got our fingers crossed for Rebel’s London-loved Reformer classes. @1rebel_uae

FOODIES WILL BE SPOILED FOR CHOICE AT TIMBUKTU MARKET Inspired by London’s Borough Market and New York’s Chelsea Market, Timbuktu Market will bring an exciting new energy to the city’s culinary scene when it opens in Two Towers, Barsha Heights.

The market will house different eateries under one roof, all of which will be brand-new concepts, including venues from home chefs, bakers, pop-ups, supper clubs, and some international concepts.

There will also be space to shop for local products and burn off some calories with homegrown cycling studio, Motion Cycling. While we don’t know much more than that yet, we do know that Timbuktu Market is in great hands with Dubai-based food blogger Hani AlMalki (@bedouinfoodie) leading the curation team. @timbuktu_market

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 21

2 0 24 P R E V I E W

THE WORLD’S FIRST REAL MADRID THEME PARK WILL OPEN IN DUBAI

HORSE RACING’S ELITE DESCEND ON THE CITY FOR DUBAI WORLD CUP The exceptional Meydan racing calendar culminates with the famed Dubai World Cup on March 30. The 28th edition of the incredible sporting event comes with an impressive prize pot of $30.5 million. While the star of the show may be the racing action, the day comes with a heavy focus on the fashion, and there’s plenty of off-track entertainment, too. @racingdubai

Football club Real Madrid has signed an exclusive multi-year partnership with Dubai Parks and Resorts that will see the two entities open the world’s first Real Madrid destination theme park in Dubai in 2024. Called Real Madrid World, here visitors will be able to enjoy audio-visual displays, interactive experiences, playable gaming interactions as well as unique attractions that are inspired by the spirit, passion and success that have cemented Real Madrid as one of the world’s best-loved sports teams. @realmadridworlddubai Dubai World Cup

Michael McIntyre

GET READY FOR BELLY LAUGHS AS MICHAEL MCINTYRE PERFORMS

Chaos Karts

RIDE AROUND LIKE REAL LIFE MARIO KART AT CHAOS KARTS The city’s first-ever live-action part-gaming part-karting experience is officially making its way to Dubai’s Al Quoz in January. The go-kart experience (which looks very much like Mario Kart IRL) combines live on-track racing with augmented reality. Chaos Karts throws players into a virtual world, with real-life video game racing battles. Using state-of-the-art technology that produces real-life sensations and reactions, putting you in the driver’s seat for a ‘next level’ immersive kart gaming experience. Racers will be able battle it out with collectable power-ups while their vehicle interacts with the virtual track. @chaoskartsuae 22 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

British funnyman Michael McIntyre brings his stand-up world tour, Macnificent, to Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena for one night only on January 13. McIntyre, now one of the biggest names in comedy, first rose to fame as a TV panel show star on Mock The Week before going on to get his own show on the BBC. No stranger to performing in the UAE, McIntyre last performed in the capital back in 2021, and before that performed a two-date show Dubai in 2019. Tickets start from Dhs250. coca-cola-arena.com

DINE AT THE HANDS OF THE WORLD’S BEST CHEF New restaurants are pretty common, but among the slew of new openings to expect in 2024, one particularly stands out to us. Chef Dabiz Muñoz, known for his avant-garde and experimental approach to cuisine, is set to open his debut Dubai restaurant in February.

The recipient of the Best Chef in the World award from Best Chef Awards three years in a row, will open StreetXO in One&Only Za’abeel in early 2024. In an informal and relaxed setting, expect haute cuisine with a dynamic edge, inspired by street food from all over the world. “The experience is going to be unique and amazing,” the chef told What’s On. “But for us, what happens on your plate is the most important thing.

We’re crazy about achieving unique flavours.” @streetxo.dubai

ABU DHABI WILL WELCOME AN ICONIC MUSICAL Even if you’re not ‘a musical type of person’, you’ve probably heard of Hamilton. It’s a grand, boardtreading spectacular that’s cut from a very different sort of theatrical cloth. Using a song sheet that builds narratives through the musical genres of hip-hop, pop, jazz, R&B, soul and *jazz hands* Broadway — Hamilton is a Lin-Manuel Mirandaconceived extravaganza that weaves “the story of America then told by America now.” Hamilton is headed for Yas Island’s Etihad Arena for a tenure of office that will stretch from January 17 to February 11, 2024. Tickets start from Dhs180. etihadarena.ae

StreetXO

Hamilton

DIFC WILL SEE THE DEBUT OF A SLEEK NEW ASIAN RESTAURANT The world-famous Chinese hotspot, Mr Chow is set to replace Indochine, which closed its doors after a four-year stint in DIFC’s Gate District. The Dubai outpost will be Mr Chow’s eighth restaurant worldwide and second outpost in the Middle East after opening its doors in Riyadh last month, in the buzzing King Abdullah Financial District. Mr Chow is famed for its unforgettable dining experience including a daily handmade noodle show, Champagne trolley, and one of the best-prepared Beijing ducks in the world. @mrchow Dubai Opera

AN ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER CLASSIC BRINGS THE DRAMA TO DUBAI OPERA The sensational and spellbinding musical, The Phantom of the Opera returns to Dubai Opera from February 22 to March 10. Based on the novel by French journalist and mystery writer Gaston Leroux, the show tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House, before becoming enraptured by the talents of a young soprano, Christine. Having lured her in as his protégé, the phantom falls madly in love, then descends into jealous rage upon learning of Christine’s love affair with the opera’s patron, Raoul. What follows is certainly not an exercise in understatement – with huge operatic numbers, a full corps de ballet, a dramatic unmasking of the disfigured ghost of the opera house and even a famous crashing chandelier, Phantom is as overblown and dramatic as its name might suggest. Tickets start from Dhs275. @dubaiopera WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 23

OPEN NOW IN DUBAI CREEK HARBOUR

Vietnamese Foodies is bringing its authentic flavors to Dubai Creek Harbour. Join us and savor the essence of Vietnam with a view!

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

Fun ways to stay physically fit in Dubai...

WORDS: MILES BUCKERIDGE

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 25

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

J

anuary is traditionally the month where we gracefully pivot from ‘fitting this festive feat into our bellies’ to ‘fitness is our passion’. And whilst the gym-earned form of fitness might give you pretty muscles and treadmill technique, any athlete will tell you it’s functional fitness that’s important for real-world lasting wellness. The good news is that there are some really fun ways to get these sorts of gains, score big core strength, and focus on your functional physical fitness. All without having to resort to burpees. Mostly.

Rock climbing

Where to try it: Mountain Extreme, Al Quoz 3 Almost certainly occupying the top spot in desirable zombie apocalypse survival skills, climbing works an impressive number of muscle groups that don’t otherwise get a look in. See ‘finger tape’ on the apparatus checklist. Whilst there are multiple places across the UAE where anyone from beginner level up can spider monkey their way across craggy rock faces in situ, there are plenty more indoor walls in Dubai that will likely be much closer, and more convenient for regular scrambles. Places like Mountain Extreme, which offers unsupervised hour-long drop-in sessions on its 129 bouldering problems, 127 top rope routes and 14 auto belays for just Dhs125 (coaching sessions from Dhs250, memberships also available). Here you can learn to plot routes, summit overhangs, and make like Tom Cruise up a section of Burj Khalifa cladding. @mountainextremedxb

Gymnastics

Where to try it: FitRepublik, The Academies - Dubai Sports City With the probable exclusion of ribbon twirling, the collective disciplines within the spinning sphere of gymnastics are amongst the very best for practical fitness.

It trades in mastery of the body, grace under balance, strength, stamina, precise movements, and the entirely voluntary option of tight-fitting outfits. If you’re an adult and fancy giving it a go – there are some places in Dubai where absolutely no existing knowledge of pommel horses is expected. Places such as FitRepublik, which offers a drop-in class for all skill levels (priced at Dhs158 for non gym members). @fitrepublikae 26 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Parkour

Where to try it: Bounce X, Festival City Mall The self-proclaimed ‘world’s first freestyle terrain park’, Bounce X is a 5,000 sqm attraction that takes the best bits from existing Bounce parks in Dubai, and connects them with other exciting parkour elements. Designed by Australian free-running athlete Sam Carter, inside you can declare your own personal war on gravity – stretch, flex, leap and clamber across floating obstacles, slacklines, balance beams, circular trampolines, and sky-high stepping stones. While there are no structured coaching sessions, Bounce X is a great place for adults and children to practice independently, with one-hour packages from Dhs90. bounce.ae

Surfing

Where to try it: Surf House Dubai, Umm Suqeim 2 If the sea is nature’s gym, then surfing is its HIIT class.

Swimming against currents; pulling yourself up onto a board after a gnarly dismount; and just the power, pose, and corporeal control required to aim a slice of polyurethane foam in an even remotely favourable direction – add up to a physically demanding set of basic requirements. But don’t let that put you off, it really doesn’t take that long before you’re upright – and from then on, there’s a strong chance it will evolve into a lifelong obsession... and washboard abs. Surf House Dubai, as they name may imply, is one of the emirate’s most trusted custodians of the ocean – and their team of expert wave whisperers have an outstanding record in getting newbies on the barrel shredding train. Prices for private sessions are Dhs325, with discounts for groups and multilesson packages. surfingdubai.com

Squash

Where to try it: Elixir Fitness, Two Seasons Hotel, Al Sufouh The rampant padel PR machine has relegated squash to relative racket sport obscurity in recent years, but we’re confident it has enough in the locker to make a grand comeback. Aside from being insanely fun (it’s basically latch-key street tennis), you can burn up to 900 calories in an hour-long game. And it’s interval training, which is a proven, effective method for fat burn. Other benefits include improved hand-eye coordination; honing of agility, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness; and unlike padel, literally zero on-court selfies are required. There are scattered courts in hotels across Dubai, Fitness First also offers squash in some of its locations – but our pick is Elixir Fitness, where you can book courts at a rate of Dhs125 per hour. elixir-fitness.com WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 27

FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

Pole fitness

Where to try it: Pole Fit, Marina Sail Tower, Dubai Marina Very little is known about the origins of pole fitness as a wellness pursuit. Almost nothing in fact. Perhaps it originally came from Poland. We’ll never know. But out of these mysterious beginnings, a cult fitness format was born. In addition to allowing you to artfully navigate in three-dimensional space along the Y axis of a pole (which could be handy in any number of real-world scenarios), it’s an exercise that famously builds upper and lower body strength, tones abdominal muscles, reduces stress, and is one of the few sports where it’s perfectly acceptable to engage in with eight-inch heels. Here in Dubai, Pole Fit is one of the oldest and most fondly followed hubs of pole fitness for all skill levels. There are enhanced options for intermediate and advanced practitioners who can take their pole skills ‘aerial’ with ‘silk and hoop’ work. Pay as you go, single drop in classes are priced at Dhs135. polefitdubai.com

Circuit training

Where to try it: Circuit Factory, multiple locations Pros: one of the best ways to incinerate calories, and put a wicked spread of functional muscle groups through the ringer. Cons: you might sweat through your eyeballs and dry wretch over a bin. And look, we may have reached the extent of our burpee free-zone here, but we promise it’s totally worth it. Circuit Factory operates its fun, high-intensity, mixed-circuit classes across three locations – The Factory in Al Quoz 3, GEMS Metropole in Al Waha, and the Innovation Hub in Internet City. Session focuses are mixed up throughout the week to keep your grind fresh, and there’s a companion aspect of enhanced nutrition too, ensuring that even when you’re not in the factory, you’re still racking up the right kind of swole goals. More? There’s currently a buy-one-get-one deal on monthly memberships at Dhs895. circuitfactory.ae 28 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

ASK TH E TR AI N E R

Stand-up paddle boarding

Where to try it: Ignite Water Sports, Riva Beach Club Improving balance, flexing your core, reducing stress, giving your whole body a workout, becoming a master of tides – these are just a few of the purported benefits of answering the call of, ‘SUP.’ And with a vast expanse of glittering coastline and yearround sunshine, Dubai might be one of the best places on earth to go for a leisurely stand-up paddle board meander. If you’re game for giving it a go, the friendly water sports instructors at Ignite will gladly glide you through the basics with packages from Dhs75 for an hour. @ignitewatersports

Alex Cox The Platform Studios – boxing, HIIT, cycle coach

What are your top three equipment-free exercises?

The Push up Not everyone has the ability to lift themself successively off the floor, but there are ways to build up to this beast of an exercise. For an entry level set, start on your hands and knees.

The Squat Right up there with deadlifting for most muscles recruited but this comes with the added benefit that you don’t need any equipment. Build muscle, burn calories, improve posture, mobility, balance, flexibility you name it.

Alternating Toe Touches Fancy laying down for a bit after all those squats?

Well, flat on your back with your arms and legs extended is exactly where you start and finish.

Bring your straight leg towards you and go meet it with the opposite hand.

And for outdoor functional workouts?

Minute-for-minute, running is the best burn you’re going to get, but it’s not for everyone and if its impact on your joints that you’re concerned about, consider hiking. Walking up hills at any pace is fantastic for you. Swimming is one of the best exercises for total functionality and with the UAE’s collection of community pools and public beaches, you’re spoilt for dip choice.

Many beaches now have bike tracks and cycling offers a low impact option for your fitness goals.

You’ve probably also seen workout stations, at semi-regular intervals, lining the running tracks, many parks have these too, and SkyDive Dubai has a really high-end alfresco gym that is absolutely free to the public.

Boxing

Where to try it: Spartans Boxing Club, Arjan Like the warrior tribe from which the name derives, Spartans demands that you leave your ego at the door. There are currently two locations (Arjan and Townsquare) with a third opening at Midtown in January. Spartans is more than a gym, employing expert coaches to forge fighters from its members.

It’s open to experienced hands, as well as day-one novices, offers classes for adults, kids, for fitness and technique and it runs one of the UAE’s best respected white-collar fight nights. If you’re serious about boxing, looking to meet like-minded souls, or just curious about how far you can push yourself, this is the gym for you (single sessions from Dhs100). For this, is SPARTAAA. @boxingspartans.uae

What classes would you recommend at The Platform Studios for functional fitness?

Our MO is “The Joy of Exercise” so that’s my top tip. Find the joy! We’re all about providing variety and what is right for one person is not for someone else. We have an extensive range of Mind & Body classes taught by world class trainers. If you’re looking to condition your core or legs take a Booty Burn class, if you’re looking to increase flexibility look at Yoga or Reformer, but to increase your overall fitness I’d suggest our Rhythm or Power cycle classes and our signature HIIT & Boxing classes. @ alex_cox_pt WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 29

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Presented By

ED SHEERAN

The 32-yearold, rainbowtatted, British megastar Ed Sheeran storms Dubai this January for a two-night performance that’s set to be the biggest open-air ‘in-the-round’ concert the city has ever seen. Not bad for a lad whose original ambition was to fill a 1,000-seater concert hall in Shepherd’s Bush. We dive into the archives to see what Sheeran has to say about success, social media, and singing for his daughters…

WORDS: LAURA COUGHLIN

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 31

ED SHEERAN

“SUCCESS IS STRANGE. IT’S VERY HARD TO PROCESS THE BIG MOMENTS.” ON ELITE LEVEL GEEKERY… I am a nerd. I love Lord of the Rings.

I love Pokémon. I love LEGO and Warhammer, and yeah, I’m not meant to be considered cool. When I was a kid, I saw Pikachu as my friend. Now I’m the guy who gets asked to write a song for the new Pokémon game.

ON CHEESY SONGS… When I wrote Perfect and Thinking Out Loud I remember being like, ‘Oh, these are a bit cheesy.’ And they became the biggest ballads in the world that year, and you’re like, ‘Well, people must connect with cheese, then!’

ON LETTER WRITING… People should send more letters. I’m old-school – I love sitting and reading through physical fan mail. There’s just something cool about a person who has taken the time to send a hand-written letter to you. Saying that, I got a letter from a fan in Korea once, which said: “Ed you are a little ugly – but I love you.” I guess that’s still a compliment though, right?

32 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

ON COUNTRY MUSIC…

ON SUCCESS… Success is strange. It’s very hard to process the big moments.

My ambition was always to fill Shepherd’s Bush Empire – filling Wembley Stadium wasn’t even on my radar. It’s surreal just thinking about everything that’s happened.

Country music is some of the best-written music in the world. So yeah, one day, I would keep my mind open to doing a country record.

ON ROOM SERVICE… Travel is an essential part of my life. There’s a lot of hotel living, a lot of ordering room service for dinner – always get the burger, consistently the best thing on the menu.

ON SOCIAL MEDIA… I enjoyed getting rid of my phone for a year. Social media is important and powerful in so many ways – especially for fan interaction – but if you’re not careful you can find yourself living your life staring at a screen.

SHEERAN’S SET LIST

Dubbed The Mathematics Tour, the two-hour show draws from all of Ed Sheeran’s albums since 2011 – “Plus,” “Multiply” (2014), “Divide” (2017), “Equals” (2021) and the new “Subtract”. Here’s a look at the likely set list…

1. “Tides” 2. “Shivers” 3. “The A Team” 4. “Castle on the Hill” 5. “Eyes Closed” 6. “Give Me Love” 7. “Salt Water” 8. “Galway Girl” 9. “Thinking Out Loud” 10. “Love Yourself” 11. “Bloodstream” 12. “Afterglow” 13. “Shape of You” 14. “Bad Habits” 15. “You Need Me, I Don’t Need You”

ON HIS LOOKS… I think I’m quite meme-able.

I think it’s because I am quite quote-unquote ‘ordinary looking’. I look like someone’s older brother’s mate who came back from college and works in a pizza shop.

ON DAUGHTER DISAGREEMENTS… I’ll sing my new songs to my daughter but she’s not a fan. She just cries. She doesn’t like anything loud or anything belt-y. But she really likes Shape of You.

January 19 and 20 The Sevens Stadium Dubai, Dubai – Al Ain Road, 8pm, from Dhs595. edsheerandxb.com

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 33

EAT | DRINK | SHOP

PA G E 36

Heart and Soul

The coolest new Kitchen in Business Bay XU REVIEWED p37 MASTER MOCKTAILS p44

EAT // REVIEW Words: Tamara Wright

RESTAURANT REVIEW:

SOUL KITCHEN DXB

This cool new Business Bay eatery is a feast for the senses, but does it satisfy the sense that truly matters?

D

ubai is home to a large number of Lebanese eateries, but newlyopened Soul Kitchen is not your typical Lebanese restaurant.

A concept by Factory People, a Beirut-based group of artists and music enthusiasts, Soul Kitchen advertises that it’s here to ‘redefine the nightlife scene in Dubai while supporting Arab culture, cuisine, musicians, and artists.’ Intrigued?

So were we...

Located in Business Bay, the art-focused venue features a stunning cocktail bar, outdoor terrace, two restaurant areas, and a soon-to-open hidden nightclub.

The vibrant menu is inspired by the Lebanese diaspora, serving heart-warming Levantine dishes fused with Latin American flavours. Two cultures that are deeply passionate about cooking, isn’t that a recipe for success?

There’s an energy at Soul Kitchen, even on a Monday night, that makes a visit absolutely worth it, with a cool crowd that made us feel like we were a part of something great. It has the familiar, community feel of a local pub without the smell of stale beer and below-par food. Already top marks from us.

We start the evening with a couple of cocktails at the bar. The signature Arak bellini (Dhs64) is made with prosecco,

36 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

lychee, lemongrass, and for a Middle Eastern twist, Arak; and the Mastiha basil (Dhs64) is a riff on a classic gin basil cocktail with Mastiha for a fragrant kick.

Both go down a treat and perfectly set the tone for the rest of the night.

The restaurant quickly fills up and we take our seats – all eyes on the stage at the back of the room, which comes alive with nightly vinyl sets and live bands.

First to arrive at the table are the sharing-style starters.

The hummus chimichurri (Dhs68) looks like a traditional Arabic hummus served with crispy fried bread, but the Argentine chimichurri sauce adapts perfectly to the unfamiliar territory, adding a zesty punch that makes this staple dish even more delicious.

Another highlight was the calamari (Dhs85), a common menu item in Dubai yet rarely served to perfection. Here, the calamari comes grilled (instead of fried) and is perfectly charred, delightfully tender, and topped with crispy garlic.

Instead of ordering the sea bass ceviche (Dhs85), be sure not to skip their

signature take on the dish, the white fish tabbouleh (Dhs75). Fresh local white fish (catch of the day) is served in a bowl of refreshing tabbouleh water and topped with jicama. Each mouthful is creamy with just the right amount of textures, flavours and, acidity. A party in our mouths.

Having had our fair share of seafood to start, for mains, we opt for the tamarind lamb chops (Dhs220) and vegetarian manti (Dhs125). The lamb chops are cooked perfectly pink in a Morita chilli and tamarind glaze. But it’s the wonderful crispy layered potatoes that steal the show with a dollop of smoked goat labneh.

The manti are filled with vegetables and feta cheese in a spicy-yet-sweet caramelised tomato sauce and generously WHAT’S ON sprinkled with more VERDICT feta. The perfect A beautiful comfort dish that fusion warms the soul and celebrating the leaves you wanting very best of two more. cultures in a Soul Kitchen, Marasi magical setting.

Drive, Business Bay, We’re already daily 5pm to 1am. planning our Tel: (0)4 836 0900. next visit. soulkitchendxb.com

EAT // REVIEW Words: Alice Holtham

REVIEW:

XU

Can a sleek Cantonese eatery draw the party people to Barsha?

M

uch of my dining history at Mall of the Emirates has revolved around food court pit-stops between shopping sprees, queueing endlessly for dumplings at Din Tai Fung, and Deliveroo-ing the Joe & The Juice club sandwich to my home nearby.

Fine dining, particularly of the latenight variety, somehow feels wrong in my established perception of MOE. But if anything can change that opinion, it’s likely to be a restaurant from Rikas Group, creators of Twiggy, Mimi Kakushi, and La Cantine, who are yet to put a foot wrong in building their culinary empire.

Still, I retain a cool skepticism as I arrive at XU, their Cantonese restaurant at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates.

There’s no denying its beautiful: rich shades of ruby are illuminated by the warm amber glow of lanterns. Mirrored ceilings and dark woods add to the sultry feel. It’s

a large space, split between a dining room that’s backed by an open kitchen, and a bar area that’s dotted with lounge tables, the latter already seeming like the more popular spot. There’s also a long, narrow terrace at the back packed with plants that make it feel like an urban oasis. There’s even a trickling waterfall to add to the zen garden feel, although it can’t completely disguise the sounds of the Sheikh Zayed Road traffic zipping back and forth below.

Back inside, we take our seat in the lounge, ordering a tequila-based twist on the paloma called Year of the Dragon (Dhs70), a refreshing sip that we quickly finish while perusing the menu.

To start, we order the diver scallops, which at Dhs90 per piece are pricey, but arrive perfectly plump and flavoured well with a subtle garlic. The dim sum platter (Dhs145) is excellent, each neat parcel a symphony of bold tastes, from the scallop with pickled chilli to the beef with soy and

ginger. The king crab salad (Dhs230) is one dish we don’t particularly enjoy, with a limited amount of crab, and the crystal noodles, cucumber and coriander, lacking some of those bold flavours found in other dishes.

This is a Cantonese restaurant, so we feel it would be wrong not to order the Peking duck (Dhs245 for a half duck), a plentiful tender portion that’s sliced rather than shredded, its crispy skin adding to the full flavour.

The beef charsiu (Dhs168) is coated in a deliciously sweet and salty charsiu sauce that’s rich without being overpowering.

We order dessert, a banana brulee (Dhs48) – deconstructed layers of sugary crunch and vanilla ice cream. It might not be what you’d expect, but it hits all the right WHAT’S ON notes, which sort of VERDICT sums up dining at XU. XU might just Kempinski Mall of the be the reason Emirates, Al Barsha, to come – and daily 6pm until late. stay – out late Tel: (0)4 394 6252. at MOE. @xurestaurantdubai WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 37

EAT // VEGAN EATS Words: Laura Coughlin

BLACK TAP

ALL THE JUNK, LESS OF THE GUILT

Find perfect pizzas, soybased wizardry, and terrific taco plates at these veganfriendly restaurants

J

anuary is a stellar month for vegans and vegetarians, thanks to a plethora of new and actually delicious dishes appearing on menus across town. To save you wasting your Dirhams on any plantbased flops, What’s On has taken on the task of taste-testing the best in vegan junk food – from Neat Burger’s vegan hot dogs to Pinza’s fresh range of vegan-friendly pizzas. It was a tough job, but someone had to do it…

38 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

The milkshakes that nearly broke the internet acquired a vegan alternative almost four years ago and never looked back. The sweet play on the iconic New York black and white cookie (Dhs62) includes the following ingredients: a soy-based chocolate shake, house-made vanilla frosting, chocolate chips on the side and topped with a thick slice of cake, which swaps in applesauce for dairy. It’s finished with a rice-based whipped cream and chocolate drizzle.

Rixos Premium Hotel, JBR, daily noon to 1am. Tel: (0)4 360 9965. @blacktapdubai. ALSO: Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall

NEAT BURGER Backed by racing champion Lewis Hamilton, Neat Burger is an alternative-protein company that boasts multiple locations in the US, UK and now the UAE. With a mission to support less meat intake and encourage vegan/flexitarian lifestyles, the plant-based concept features a variety of vegan treats, like the Neat burger (Dhs42), nasty nachos (Dhs28), Neat dog (Dhs36), and tater tots (Dhs21).

Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, daily 8am to midnight. Tel: (0)56 711 5536. @neat. burger.uae

SPARKBAKE One of Dubai’s best-kept vegan treats secrets is this all-vegan bistro and bakeshop hidden in Times Square Center. There are five fantastic vegan burger options each house-made with all-veggie grain and quinoa-walnut plant burgers (from Dhs34), four griddle-cooked focaccia toasties (from Dhs36), plus a range of guilt-free dessert from tiramisu (Dhs30), to carrot cake slices (Dhs28).

Times Square Center, Al Quoz, daily 10am to 10pm. Tel: (0)4 446 8726. @sparkbake

MAIZ While tacos void of meat and cheese don’t sound particularly alluring, the vegan Mexican options at the What’s On Award-winning Maiz are anything but flavourless. Order up a stack of hongo con macha tacos (Dhs32) – deliciously charred mushrooms with the taqueria’s house-made salsa macha, guacamole, onion and coriander.

Cluster Y, JLT, Sat to Wed noon to 10pm, Thur to Fri noon to 11pm. Tel: (0)4 514 4712. @maizdxb.

ALSO: Dubai Hills

AMONGST FEW

PINZA Vegan pizza, that’s actually pretty tasty? We’ve found our favourite at Pinza – the locally-owned pizzeria known for their bloat-free, lower calories dough. There are seven vegan options to choose from, including the Oh My Vegan (Dhs42) topped with tomato sauce, vegan mozzarella, Portobello mushrooms, zucchini, caramelised onions, peppers and vegan Mexicano chipotle sausage. Pizzas can be made gluten-free by ordering a cauliflower crust.

Sobha Ivory Tower, Business Bay, Mon to Fri 11am to 1am, Sat and Sun 11am to 2am. Tel: (800) 74692. @itspinza. ALSO: JVC, DIFC, Dubai Internet City

Amongst Few is a trendy concept store, barbershop and cafe with a robust menu of vegan food options. Satisfying dishes that are naughty but still nice include their vegan take on California’s classic In-N-Out burger (Dhs62), and smothered vegan burritos (Dhs58), with vegan chipotle and Mexican rice served for breakfast and lunch. In the morning, there are baked goods and pastries, like vegan Snickers (Dhs16), and vegan plain croissants (Dhs14).

Bahwan Complex, Villa 3, 966 Al Wasl Rd, Umm Suqeim 1, daily 9am to 9pm. Tel: (0)4 236 0031. @amongstfewcafe

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 39

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EAT // BAR OF THE MONTH Words: Aarti Saundalkar

BAR OF THE MONTH:

TRIPLE 7 Be a big kid at Dubai’s fun-filled new entertainment bar

W

hen you think of arcade games, it might conjure up images of children laughing, crying – possibly screaming. But at Triple 7, this is gaming for grown-ups.

The newest kid on the block in Business Bay is an adult-only, exclusive arcade where the big kids are invited to play.

From Boxer, Pump it Up, Pacman, car and bike games to bowling, and pool, this bar is loaded with fun.

When we arrived after work on a weekday it’s still early, so while there may only be a handful of guests in the venue, it’s atmospheric thanks to music, beeps, bops, and flashing lights.

We fuel-up with some drinks and bites before our round of button-smashing fun. The Welcome to the Yoda (Dhs85) comes served in a Yoda (Star Wars) glass with sweet passion fruit flavours, while the Palomina Sour (Dhs80) – a tequilabased cocktail was punchy, if a little overpowering.

For food, our friendly waiter suggested we try the best of the small bites with the

Sharing is Caring, Good for Two platter (Dhs95), which included chicken wings with a spicy sauce, three tender beef sliders, chicken satay, flavourful crunchy spring rolls (our favourite), crispy calamari and onion rings with dipping sauces. It was a feat to finish, but we did it.

Taking a break from the table, we whipped out our Triple 7 game cards handed to us when we entered and kicked off the fun night with a game of basketball. We moved through the venue and had a blast at the real BB shooting game, Jet Pong, superbikes, and Ms Pacman had us howling as we evaded (or failed to evade) the ghosts.

Back at our table, we ordered a threecheese quesadilla (Dhs60), which can comfortably be shared between two.

And we couldn’t leave without trying the 777 churros (Dhs55) for dessert.

The churros are fried to perfection and are sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, which we happily dipped in a delicious salted caramel sauce. It was extremely crunchy and still warm.

By the end of our evening, the venue is bustling with gaggles of friends crowding around the games, especially at the bucking bull and bowling alley. This is clearly a spot that’s already drawing a lateWHAT’S ON night crowd.

VERDICT Triple 7, Radisson Blu A spot we will Canal View, Business gladly return Bay, weekdays 4pm to when we to 2am and weekends need to hit the 12pm to 2am. pause button Tel: (0)56 630 0777. on adulting.

777dxb.com WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 41

EAT // BRUNCH REVIEW Words: Miles Buckeridge

BRUNCH REVIEW:

JUN’S, WEEKEND RITUALS A better way to brunch...

W

e’d argue homegrown, multiaward-winning restaurant, Jun’s is very much an authentic representation of Dubai. Not because it serves Emirati cuisine, it doesn’t in any traditional sense, but because its holistic offering is such an amalgam of international influences and styles, it captures the essence of this, our cosmopolitan city that so thrives on diversity.

The man behind the menu is Chef Kelvin Cheung, a proud ambassador of third-culture cooking who, along with founder Neha Anand, has seen their Downtown, Opera-adjacent restaurant become the focus of a lot of international culinary guide attention.

Interestingly, for an experience that is also a true Dubai institution, their brunch format is where they start departing from local conventions. Weekend Rituals is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 3.30pm, it features a condensed a la carte offering of small and large plates and a range of drink packages (soft from

42 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Dhs100, house from Dhs275). If you’re keen on enjoying adult beverages with your food, you’ll have to take an interior seat, but the combined allure of winter weather and Boulevard people-watching mean that, right now, I only have eyes for the terrace.

With Rituals, you pay for each dish you order – a great way to avoid waste, but it can mean your bill escalates rapidly if you turn up with a ravenous bent. It’s only fair, Jun’s for me is beyond question in terms of quality – a fact theatrically demonstrated by the lobster pani puri from the ‘little plates’ section (Dhs130). This expatriate mash-up is a mille-feuille of layered glow – butter-poached lobster, achari, coconut and a liquified tamarind gel. It’s what I imagine Goan sunsets would taste like if you could figure out a way to sneak a bite, and marks a dying light entry on my list of favourite 2023 discoveries.

Amongst the other hot picks from the de-facto starter section, we found love in the wagyu potstickers (Dhs100) a surfyturfy beef and prawn mix, paired with powerfully spicy hot and sour vinegarette.

Their truffle mac ‘n’ cheese (Dhs110) is

a real winter warmer, pitched with just enough of the truff, to make forking through the creamy bake a rewarding side-quest.

From the ‘not so little’ plate collection you can pick your path – am or pm – with breakfast and lunch options honouring the forgotten true meaning of ‘brunch’.

We take a jalapeno wagyu smash burger (Dsh110), tempura veg and garlic noodles (Dhs100) and wagyu beef garlic naan wrap (Dhs140). The burger is local hall of fame calibre, literally oozing gooey charm.

The wrap is excellent in concept, but what is clearly a delicately balanced assembly of flavours becomes slightly lost behind the doughy hug of the naan (though you’re in charge of folding your own wrap, so you could easily lose some of the bulk).

And that’s it. That’s the heaviest shade we can throw at Jun’s, a restaurant positively revelling in culinary crossovers, and fully WHAT’S ON deserving of its hotVERDICT ticket hype.

An Sheikh Mohammed unconventional bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai brunch, Downtown Dubai, brushed with Sat and Sun 11am to 24 karat 3.30pm. Tel: (0)4 457 brilliance.

6035. junsdubai.com

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EAT // DRY JANUARY Words: Alice Holtham

Sushisamba An explosion of Peruvian, Brazilian and Japanese flavours, Sushisamba is a What’s On Restaurant of the Year Award winner for good reason.

Pair the inventive fusion plates with non-alcoholic cocktails inspired by their alcoholic counterparts.

Order: A bright and refreshing Sambaretti Sour, which features Lyre’s Amaretti, yuzu juice, and almond cordial. @sushisambadubai

Sushisamba

MAKE MINE A

MOCKTAIL

Non-alcoholic drinks are on the rise, and the city’s bar scene is getting in on the action. Here’s where to find the city’s finest mocktail mixology, and the drinks to order when you get there Amelia Master mixology has made this Lebanese-born bar at Address Sky View one of the city’s premier drinking dens. But even if you’re staying off the sauce, this gorgeous maximalist bar has plenty of tipples for you to try. From the citrusy Tropical Island, which pairs pink grapefruit with orange, grenadine and passionfruit; to the refreshing Orange Spritzer, made with Lyre’s Sparkling and Lyre’s Spritz, there’s something to suit all tastes.

Order: A deep and dark Maitai 0.0% which blends non-alcoholic dark cane with pineapple, almond, citrus and tonka beans. @amelia.dubai

Nuska

Nuska On the shorefront of Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Nuska sits pretty directly facing the iconic façade of the Burj Al Arab. While the seaside setting and breezy Mediterranean feel might be a reason to book a table here, if you’re going teetotal, the range of 0.0% cocktails are reason enough to linger longer.

Order: Basil Smash, which features Lyre’s Dry London Spirit and elderflower cordial. @nuskadubai 44 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Amelia

Coya Take a trip to Peru without leaving Dubai at Coya, known for its vibrant décor, musical programming, and flavourful Peruvian fare. The innovative bar menu features plenty of mocktail options, such as a pineapple and passionfruit based Purple Rain.

Order: Scarlet, a muddle of non-alcoholic Campari and Amaretto with pomegranate and fresh lime juice, finished with a touch of salt. @coyadubai

Zuma Dubai

Zuma Dubai There’s never a bad day to visit the ever-popular Zuma, consistently regarded as one of Dubai’s top restaurants. Whether you’re dining in the sleek restaurant, or catching up with friends in the vibrant lounge, it’s a DIFC stalwart that always impresses. As it continues to innovate on the food and beverage front, the bar at Zuma is home to an impressive mocktail list.

Order: The Amando, featuring sweet and zesty flavours such as 0.0% Amaretti, spiced honey, lemon juice, almond milk foam. @zumadubai

Milos

Clap A lofty Japanese restaurant in DIFC, Clap might be known for its fun-filled party brunches and lively late night soirees, but it’s also home to some excellent non-alcoholic drinks that are perfect for enjoying alongside the inventive Japanese cuisine.

Tuck into bites of beef taco and black cod, then mains like Chilean sea bass and king crab leg.

Order: Soak up the views while sipping on a Zebra, made with Lyre’s Amaretti. @clapdubai

Clap

3 Fils

3 Fils This multi-award winning spot on the picturesque waterfront of Jumeirah Fishing Harbour serves up more than just excellent Japanese cuisine. The master mocktail menu features serves that fuse Japanese inspirations with regional tastes, such as Zaatar w Shay, which is a muddle of Earl grey, guava, and thyme; and the yellow bird, featuring passionfruit, lime and ginger ale.

Order: Ume Daio, a fruity, slightly bitter beverage featuring the flavours of rhubarb and red plum that’s topped with a cloud of cotton candy. @3.fils

Chef Costas Spiliadis is arguably one of the godfathers of Greek cuisine, and his refined restaurant is befitting of its grand location in the grounds of Atlantis The Royal. Here, guests dine on high-end Hellenic food, whether they’re sat indoors next to the fresh fish counter, often piled with catches that arrive that morning from Greece, or outdoors on the terrace, which comes with front row views to the theatrical fountain show. On the drinks front, fresh ingredients form the base of four zero ABV cocktails, all given a Milos twist.

Order: Meadow, a serve of fresh melon base with coconut dill cordial and lemon galaktoboureko, the latter a sweet Greek custard. @milosdubai

Dream

Dream This dinner and a show is as much about food as it is about the stars that grace the stage. If you’re off the booze, you can still have fun on the beverage front, with 0.0% twists on a spritz and espresso martini.

Order: Passion in Disguise, featuring Lyre’s Italian spritz, passionfruit and pink grapefruit soda. @dreamdubai

Mimi Kakushi

Mimi Kakushi Now seen among the best in the business on a global stage, the venue featured on The World’s 50 Best Bars list in 40th position. Oozing Osaka glamour, order one of their innovative alcohol-free beverages, masterminded by bar manager Manja Stankovic.

Order: Yuhi, a light and refreshing serve of Lyre’s dark cane, Amaretti, hojicha tea, and kombucha cordial. @mimikakushi WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 45

EAT // REVIEW Words: Manaal Fatimah

REVIEW:

ATRANGI BY RITU DALMIA The farthest corners of India call...

T

he menu at Atrangi, moulded and given life by Indian chef extraordinaire Ritu Dalmia, evokes a silhouette of comfort and familiarity – your mother or your grandmother, perhaps - and a profile of favourite childhood flavours.

And while this is true of the food, it’s certainly not the sentiment behind the rest of the experience.

Stepping into the venue, along the picturesque Jumeirah Al Qasr waterways, we are met with tall glass walls and dim yellow lighting. The interiors of Atrangi are stylish – hints of muted glamour in the velvet sofas, the choice of chic emerald green and pops of colour burnt to desired sophistication.

But there are also Indian touches in the rattan chairs, the eclectic cutlery and the posters along the walls, featuring pop art versions of Indian grandmothers with saritorial swagger. The cool grannies have a purpose – they represent the home-cooked delicacies from the farthest corners of the

46 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

country, recipes rescued from dogeared notebooks.

As we take our seats the staff welcome us warmly. For our first round of small plates, we order the pickled doodhi carpaccio (Dhs45), the duck galawati kabab (Dhs85), the beef sukka (Dhs85) and the kesar tandoori prawns (Dhs95).

The carpaccio is fresh and acidic, with a myriad of textures – the pickled bottle gourd, puffed rice and spiced yoghurt, while the duck galawati is rich with a smokiness that doesn’t overpower – the star of the night. The beef sukka is another winner in our opinion – chunks of tart, sweet, spicy, tangy beef, saucy and oh-sotender. It’s one we would order again.

For mains, we go for the kofta with date and cottage cheese (Dhs75), the wagyu beef jadoh (Ds165) and the lemon chicken with mirchi paratha (Dhs120).

The lemon chicken has the typical curry-and-flatbread experience, and features a warm and comforting broth that could do with some more lemon. The paratha has a subtle kick, but just the right amount. The beef jadoh is hearty, thanks to the strips of meat cooked to perfection and the herb-y rice, a nod to biryani.

At this point, we’ve reached the end of our capacity, but dessert is a must. The shahi tukda (Dhs65), second only to the gulab jamun in popularity in the Western world, is sweet, but a step down from the authentic stuff – the sugar rush is missing. The filter kaapi caramel custard (Dhs65) is my personal favourite, WHAT’S ON an amalgamation of VERDICT coffee and chocolate Atrangi will take that just elevates each you through element. the streets of Atrangi, Jumeirah India – food, Al Qasr, Mon to Sun, hospitality, the 12pm to 3pm, 7pm to works – albeit 11.30pm. on a very fancy Tel: (0)55 168 0802. ride. @atrangi.dubai

Lagoon open daily 10am - sunset +971 4 602 1105 | www.twiggy.ae Park Hyatt Dubai

SHOP // HOME WORKOUT Words: Tamara Wright

Garmin Venu Sq2 smartwatch, Dhs1,219, virginmegastore.ae

Posture OnDemand Pilates membership, Dhs179 monthly, ondemand.thisisposture.com

Pilates ring, Dhs45, decathlon.ae

THE BEST HOME WORKOUT EQUIPMENT

No gym membership? No problem. Kickstart your new year’s fitness routine with realistic goals and home workout gear you love…

Activeist FormFit activewear, Dhs255 leggings, Dhs225 sports bra, activeist.co

48 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

LifeSpan treadmill desk, Dhs8,000, movetoexcellence.com

Lululemon yoga mat, Dhs275, lululemon.me

Tone It Up booty bands, Dhs65, revolve.com

Lululemon double roller, Dhs65, lululemon.me

Nike skipping rope, Dhs79, nike.ae Bala Bangles wearable weights, Dhs330, amazon.ae

Humantra electrolyte and antioxidant drink, Dhs105 per pack, gethumantra.com

1Rebel Technogym bike, Dhs20,850, 1rebel.com

Loch water bottle, Dhs155, loch.life

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 49

ART | THEATRE | FILM | MUSIC

PA G E 54

Lights, camera, action The spotlight on Cinema Akil 2.0 LE PETIT PRINCE p52 MICHAEL MCINTYRE p53 WHATSON.AE | MONTH 2022 51

CULTURE // AT THE THEATRE Words: Aarti Saundalkar

Roll out the red carpet:

Le Petit Prince lands in Dubai A timeless masterpiece taking you on an unforgettable cosmic journey

compelling dialogues truly bring the scenes we imagine from the pages of the book, magically to life.

The international beloved children’s book by French aristocrat, writer, and military pilot, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry has sold a whopping 200 million copies around the world and has been translated into 250 languages, making it the second most translated book in modern history and no ‘petite prints’ run.

T

his month, the stunning Dubai Opera stage will host an extraordinary journey that transcends generations – Le Petit Prince.

Taking place from January 25 to 28, theatregoers will experience an enchanting and mesmerising stage musical adaptation of de SaintExupéry’s masterpiece.

Le Petit Prince, or The Little Prince, follows an aviator who gets lost in the desert after a plane crash. He encounters a young prince and decides to join him and visit various planets, including Earth, to help him find his lost sheep.

Along the way, they come across a number of other charming characters, including a fox, snake, a three-petal flower, rose, and more.

While it’s a seemingly simple adventure, it also explores and addresses themes of loneliness,

52 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

TIMING

friendship, love and loss.

The iconic scenes come to life in a symphony of dance, with colourful costumes, stunning visuals, music and storytelling – a fusion that will delight both little ones and adults alike.

Expect aerial performances, circus-like stunts, projections, music, and of course

January 25: 7pm January 26: 8pm January 27: 3pm and 8pm January 28: 3pm and 7pm

Ticket details ■ Prices start from Dhs250 for silver seats, up to Dhs575 for VIP stalls and box tickets ■ Tickets can be purchased on dubaiopera.com or platinumlist.net

Le Petit Prince, Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Jan 25 to 28, from Dhs250. Tel: (0)4 440 8888. dubaiopera.com

CULTURE // LIVE COMEDY Words: Miles Buckeridge

MCINTYRELY MAGNIFICENT

One of the UK’s finest comedy exports makes a welcome return to Dubai

H

e’s won a BAFTA, hosted primetime TV shows in the UK and USA, worked the panels of countless comedy quiz shows, been a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, written a two-part memoir, and has somehow found time in between all that to say funny things on stage to packed arenas as part of a record-breaking series of sold-out stand-up comedy tours.

Michael McIntyre is a student of the observational/satirical schools of stand-up comedy and is recognised as one of Britain’s greatest-ever monologuing LOLsmiths. His signature self-deprecating, bannercarrying-middle-class-banter, floppyhaired, highly-relatable, hilarity-

punctuated rants provide the central underpinning of his on-stage sets.

McIntyre has been on the circuit for more than two decades now, with a nomination for the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Perrier Award (recognising the best up-and-coming international talent at the comedy festival) as far back as 2003, but his big breakthrough didn’t come until 2006.

That’s when he first appeared on what is arguably the highlight of the UK’s live family entertainment calendar – the Royal Variety Performance, a production he would go on to host (in 2010 and 2014). Stints on BBC One’s Live at the Apollo followed, and then in 2009, he got to front his own comedy vehicle, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow.

He’s already played UAE shows at Dubai World Trade Centre in 2019 and Abu Dhabi’s Etihad

“HIS SIGNATURE SELF-DEPRECATING, BANNER-CARRYING-MIDDLE-CLASSBANTER, FLOPPY-HAIRED, HIGHLYRELATABLE, HILARITY-PUNCTUATED RANTS PROVIDE THE CENTRAL UNDERPINNING OF HIS ON-STAGE SETS. ”

Arena in 2021, and makes his grand Dubai return with a Magnificent tour date at the Coca-Cola Arena, on Saturday January 13. Tickets are available through Platinumlist from Dhs250.

To celebrate the ‘return of the Mc’, we thought we’d share some of our favourite comic observations from past McIntyre shows.

“Google Earth is amazing. They’ve photographed every road in the world and put them on the computer.

You just type it in and go there. You drag the little man onto the map, you drop him off, you sit in front of your computer and think ‘I can go anywhere in the world. Where shall I go?’ And we all come to the same conclusion: my house. Even though you’re in your house.”

“My son’s got two words: car and map, that’s all he can say. ‘Car, car, map, car!’ I’m fairly worried he’s trying to escape. So if the next word is passport, we’re in serious trouble.”

“I bought a new pair of scissors.

But they were in this extremely tight, plastic cover thing. And I realised, the only way to get my new scissors out of the packaging was to get scissors and cut the scissors out with scissors.”

Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai. 8pm, January 13, from Dhs250, strictly 16+. coca-cola-arena.com WHATSON.AE |

JANUARY 2024 53

CULTURE // ART HOUSE CINEMA Words: Manaal Fatimah

Moving pictures Cinema Akil in 25hours is a slick celluloid dream that invites you to venture into the dark

W

hen it comes to authentic homegrown art and entertainment concepts, Cinema Akil deserves a standing ovation. It’s a Dubai cultural institution with the impressive distinction of being the only independent arthouse cinema in the whole GCC. Beyond that though, it’s a community hub for hardcore cinephiles, a champion of regional and indie filmmaking, and possesses a connoisseur’s eye for curating outstanding silver screen programmes.

Strike a bold, neon-red line through convention and you have the cinematic library of Cinema Akil. Staying true to the road less travelled, the new seasonal outpost of the brand finds itself in the open-air atrium of the 25hours Hotel Dubai in One Central, a colourful venue that embraces eccentricity. The locale and decor could not be more on-brand.

54 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

While the original Cinema Akil in Alserkal Avenue is a fully-fledged vintage theatre, with the old, sitand-you-will-sink sofas and the kitsch floral wallpaper, this new venue is an outdoor space. The design, draped and drenched in the cinema’s signature vibrant red – an ode to the classic crimson curtains of picture houses past – and to the city of Dubai, to the perpetual state of construction and the fluidity of form. Striking scaffoldings make up the structure’s skeleton and oldtimey chandeliers add the finishing touches.

to 10pm and will host complimentary screenings four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with films commencing between 7.30pm and 8pm. There is no dearth of genres, from short films to feature films, documentaries, bits of history and more at the big screen. Cinema snacks to go with can be found a-plenty, with a diverse and innovative F&B menu.

Being the platform where the untold stories of the region are told loud and proud, expect to see regional talent bask in the spotlight and community discourse on the pressing issues of today with a fresh, diverse and carefully curated programme each month. The first stint of the season saw celebrations of Palestinian pop culture, Black History and empowerment, and there will be more of these sorts of stirring, fringe-courting, conversationpromoting focuses to come. That is, after all, the brand’s core movie-showing mission.

You can find the full film schedule for the current month on cinemaakil.com.

Screenings are free of cost, so just bring yourself and a curious mind, and you’re all set.

Cinema Akil in 25hours, 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, Dubai, until May 2024. @cinemaakil The afterhours, Cinema Akil in 25hours will take you on an intimate, immersive journey into the dark, showing you searing portraits of the truth of this world – the reality, the darkness and the escape. The opening of the cinema comes at the right time, with the weather changing and longer nights. Here, culture and film converge to build a space for creative minds to find their tribe.

The space is divided into three sections: the box office/concession area, the open cinema theatre, and a multipurpose retail and pop-up space. The screen is at the centre of the pavilion, but clearly, there is much more you can do at Cinema Akil in 25hours than just catch a classic film. Cinema by night and a convertible communal space for takeovers and other fun, creative things by day, its versatility personified. The ethos of community is strong with this one.

The space is open daily from midday

FIVE MINUTES

WITH...

Cinema Akil Founder, Butheina Kazim Last movie you watched that made you cry.

The Dupes (1972) by Tewfiq Saleh which we recently screened in commemoration of the Nakba.

One movie you can watch on repeat and not get bored.

Anything by Jim Jarmusch.

One film trope you dislike.

Depicting Arabs and Muslims as barbaric evil terrorist villains. They need to stop that.

One director from history you’d like to have dinner with and why.

Finnish director Aki Kurosmaki to

find out what he eats and watch how his eyes shift around the room.

Your current regional cinema favourite.

Goodbye Julia - Sudanese director Mohamed Kordofani’s first feature film which premiered at Cannes and is coming to Cinema Akil on December 22nd.

One actor to become the muse of all your directorial ventures.

I’d have to make one to know - but probably a non-actor or Golshifteh Farhani.

WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 55

CULTURE // WHAT’S ON RESOLUTIONS

WHAT’S ON We asked for willpower for Christmas. We didn’t get it, so in the classic ‘new year, new me’ tradition, the What’s On team has set some entirely unrealistic personal goals and self-vetos for 2024. The deputy editor has given each a rating out of 10 for the likelihood of followthrough.

Alice Holtham,

Group Editor RESO: reduce my screen time I’ve got a few resolutions this year. Stop biting my nails: a resolution that returns year in, year out. Learn Arabic, beyond the embarrassingly scant few words I’ve picked up in the last near-decade. But my main focus is to spend less time glued to the screen that’s rarely out of my left palm, and more time being present in the real-life things going on around me.

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING: 2/10

Aarti Saundalkar,

Online Reporter RESO: work-life balance Striking a work-life balance for me is always a struggle.

I want more time for me - to read, to exercise, to meet friends, to chill and even get enough sleep. So, this year, I aim to consciously figure out the right balance for me. It may take me some time, and I may fail (a lot) at first, but I am hoping I will get there in the end.

Shelby Gee, Junior Reporter RESO: Taking the bull by the horns I would say I’m already a mildly spontaneous person.

But this year I’m going to focus on saying ‘yes’ to even more. Yes, to going to the beach with friends, even though I want to stay in on a weekend. Yes, to taking myself out for drinks or treating myself to a nice dinner. I’m going to let 2024 be a year of yes. I hope.

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING:

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING:

3/10

7/10

56 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Miles Buckeridge,

Deputy Editor RESO: quitting the vapes My relationship with nicotine has been a Sovietly-bleak story of toxic codependence. “I need to give this up” he says, taking another puff. But the start of a new year represents perhaps the strongest arbitrary stop date in the calendar. And I’m bringing out the big guns this time: Paul McKenna hypnosis audiobooks and scattered chewing gum stashes.

Dinesh Ramanathan,

Deputy Editor RESO: positivity I’m aiming to adopt more of a glass-half-full mindset. We’re living at a go-go-go pace and sometimes, we forget what we have and how fortunate we are to have it. In 2024, I aim to be more mindful of this and be grateful for what I have, and also give back to the less fortunate.

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING:

8/10

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING:

2/10

Tamara Wright,

Online Reporter RESO: to embrace being four-eyed and fabulous…

Despite being told, twice now, that I “must” wear my glasses “at all times” – I seem to be in denial. The thing is, I love a good pair of specs on others, they just get uncomfortable after a while when I wear them. So my mission is to find a spectacular (sorry, couldn’t resist!), comfortable pair that suit my subscription needs, and actually wear them.

Manaal Fatimah,

Junior Online Reporter RESO: stop fruit-dodging As much as I would like to, I just don’t care about fruit.

The vegetable stuff, I can do, but if all fruit was wiped from existence tomorrow, it would make absolutely no difference to me. I tolerate the berry and the citrus varieties, so that’s probably where I begin, but some rewiring will be required to start considering those as valid sources of sugar.

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING:

ED’S BELIEVABILITY RATING:

2/10

2/10

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SPORT | FITNESS | WELLBEING

PA G E 60

Ready, set, run

Lace up for these fun fitness challenges TREATMENTS TO ROLL BACK THE YEARS p62 WHATSON.AE | OCTOBER 2022 59

SPORT // GET RUNNING Words: Laura Coughlin

READY, SET, RUN

Here’s our pick of the best races, fun runs and running clubs that will help push you to your limits this month

Humantra Run Club

New Year Resolution Run

Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon The 21st edition of Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon – dubbed ‘the world’s most beautiful half marathon’ by its founders – shows a different side to the city’s shiny metropolis. Taking place on Sunday, January 28, the 21.1km Creek waterfront route takes runners up Garhoud and Maktoum bridges, past the dhow wharfage along the Deira side of the Creek before the final stretch leads onto the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, and straight into QD’s for a well-earned discounted breakfast. There’s also a 10km route if the half feels unattainable.

Entry costs Dhs380 for the half marathon and Dhs250 for the 10km. Registration closes on January 14.

January 28 dubaicreekstriders.com 60 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Dive headfirst into the New Year with the Resolution Run at Kite Beach on January 1. Jot down your 2024 resolution on your bib number, then hit the shoreline for a 2,024-metre journey to turn those aspirations into reality. Whether you choose to sprint, jog, or take a leisurely stroll, this event is your chance to set the tone for the year ahead. Entry costs just Dhs31 and the race begins at 10am.

January 1 premieronline.com

JOIN THE CLUB

Bored of plugging in your headphones and plodding off on your own? Join these free Dubai running clubs Humantra Run Club Start your Saturdays right by rocking up to Common Grounds near Kite Beach at 6.30am. The run club leader, ultra-marathon runner, and all-around ray of sunshine Sarah Stoneley leads the pace, alongside Humantra electrolyte founder Charlie Wright, for a leisurely 5k along the coast, followed by a complimentary coffee at Common Grounds. @humantra

Bubble Run – Expo City Dubai Ditch the ordinary road races and dive into a foamy adventure at Expo City Dubai’s afternoon Bubble Run. This unconventional, non-competitive race adds a frothy twist, challenging participants to navigate through various bubble stations scattered along both the 4km and 8km courses. Brace yourself for a super-soaked, sudsy spectacle of chaos that promises to be a hit with both kids and the young at heart.

Tickets start at Dhs35 for children to Dhs185 for adults.

January 20 premieronline.com

Burj2Burj Half Marathon

Dubai Marathon The Dubai Marathon returns with thousands of runners set to pound the pavements on Sunday, January 7. The 42km marathon is one of the UAE’s most important races on the sporting calendar, and runs the length of Beach Road and back, starting and finishing on Umm Sequim Road opposite Madinat Jumeirah. It’s long and arduous, but the flat route makes it one of the fastest in the world, where elite runners look to break records.

You can also sign up for the 10km and 4km races, which start at 8.15am and 10.30am respectively. Entry costs Dhs550 (42km), Dhs312 (10km) and Dhs184 (4km).

January 7 dubaimarathon.org

If you’re going to force yourself to wheeze and sweat for two hours or so, you may as well be surrounded by stunning scenery.

Enter Burj2Burj, Dubai’s newest half marathon. Crafted by runners, for runners, the Burj2Burj run starts from Burj Al Arab, with the route meandering through the scenic palm-tree-lined streets of Jumeirah, and across the Dubai Canal bridge on the way to Downtown. Along the way, there’ll be water stations, fun activations, live music and surprise challenges. The ultimate spectacle awaits beneath the majestic facade of the Burj Khalifa at Burj Park, featuring a lively race village complete with tasty food, refreshing drinks, captivating photo opportunities, and live entertainment – a perfect setting for a fun post-run celebration. Entry costs Dhs168 and race waves begin at 6am.

January 21 burj2burj.com

Jumeirah Johns Running Club Dubai’s beloved run club, catering to both men and women, spices up the city’s running scene with three free weekly runs and brilliant weekend collabs. Picture this: Jumeirah John’s recently joined forces with Rascals Deli, treating participants to free coffees and sandos after post run. The sessions feature 5k jogs, hill runs, and targeted drills designed to supercharge your performance. @jumeirahjohnsrunningclub Dubai Creek Striders What started off as a group of friends running along the Dubai Creek every Friday has transformed into the city’s leading non-profit running club.

Open to all levels, they provide a variety of running opportunities, including a Saturday Club Run in Zabeel Park from 6am, a Sunday morning beginner/recovery run setting off from DOSC, and a Wednesday evening track session at Dubai American Academy. @dubaicreekstriders

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WELLBEING // REJUVENATION Words: Alice Holtham

Facial contouring at Luxe Medical Clinic You might visit Galleria Mall for its cafes or outdoor cinema, but tucked away on the first floor is Luxe Medical Clinic, an aesthetic clinic with an Arabian touch. Their services range from minimally invasive procedures to totally transformative surgeries. Leading the dermatology experts, Dr. Heba Atallah Hussein and Dr. Hadeel Adil, start each session with a consultation to ensure they’re recommending the best treatments for individual patients. To give your face renewed definition, facial contouring uses 4ml of Aliaxin filler to reduce the appearance of ageing. There are different facial contouring options whether you’re looking to tighten, tone or remove sagging skin. @luxe.medicalclinic

Turn back time treatments New year, new you? Here’s how to look 10 years younger…

Cryopen therapy at Lucia’s

Morpheus8 at Biolite Using a combination of microneedling and radio frequency, Morpheus8 is an anti-ageing skincare treatment that’s got a number of A-List fans. It’s offered at several clinics in Dubai, but Biolite in Umm Suqueim 2 is amongst the best respected. The micro-needling stimulates collagen production, then exposes the face to radio frequency energy. The two-part treatment improves elasticity, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles in problem areas. Sessions typically take 90-minutes and it’s now possible to target the treatment on all areas of the body. biolitedubai.com

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From the same family as Cryotherapy, CryoPen is a pain-free treatment that can be done in under two minutes, with minimal preparation required. It’s used to treat superficial lesions that often come with ageing, such as skin tags, milia and hyperpigmentation. As the name suggests, CryoPen is a pen-like applicator with a tip that reaches -89°. Book in at bright and breezy Lucia Clinic, a beautiful Jumeirah aesthetics centre that counts Lindsay Lohan, Eva Longoria and Huda Kattan among its clients. luciaclinic.com

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK 5 products for healthy, hydrated and youthful skin

01

Super anti-ageing night cream, Dr Barbara Sturm Dhs1,210. sephora.ae

Meso Glow Facial at Brau Brau might have built its name as the ultimate beauty spot for elevating your brow game, but their gorgeous Jumeirah clinic, which has turned a villa on Wasl Road into a pampering oasis where you can get a range of facials in the dedicated treatment rooms, each adorned in calming natural shades and soft lighting. Among them, the 60-minute Meso Glow Facial is a mix of vitamins and micro-needles, all designed to boost collagen products, plumping the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and give a more youthful and radiant glow. It begins with a relaxing cleanse to clear the skin of all impurities, followed by an acid peel and micro-needling, which uses small needles to prick the skin, causing the skin to generate new collagen and tissue. Then, a cooling kelp algae face mask and hyaluronic acid serum are applied to soothe the skin and lock in moisture. You’ll need to have a second re-touch appointment four to 12 weeks after the first one for optimal results. brau.ae

02

Youth Eye Complex, iS Clinical Dhs500. barshacare.com

03

Retinol youth renewal serum, Murad Dhs387. lookfantastic.ae

Profhilo at Kaya Skin Clinic With locations all over the UAE, Kaya Skin Clinic is a science-based dermatology clinic that’s at the top of the game when it comes to advanced skincare solutions. Their offering now includes haircare and cosmetic surgery, but skin treatments and solutions are what they’re most popular for. For turning back the years on the top layers of your skin, Profhilo is a specially developed injectable that uses the hyperfermentation progress. With minimal pain and downtime, it’s an easy mid-week treatment that boosts the collagen and elastin in the outer two layers of skin. A popular treatment for the neck, décolletage and arms, it integrates pure hyaluronic acid into the skin tissue to restore is natural levels, leaving skin firmer and more hydrated. kayaskinclinic.com

04

Crème De La Mer hydrating cream, La Mer Dhs780. ounass.ae

05

Anti-aging vitamin C serum, La Roche-Posay Dhs218. noon.ae

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DESTINATIONS | STAYCATIONS

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Germany’s green appeal Discovering Berlin, the eco way EXCITING HOTEL OPENINGS p66 STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT p74 WHATSON.AE | OCTOBER 2022 65

TRAVEL // NEW HOTELS Words: Alice Holtham

Destination: INSPIRATION

From the untouched shores of Saudi Arabia to a hidden escape in the Cyclades, here are eight exciting hotel openings worth travelling the world for in 2024

03

Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, The Red Sea, Saudi Arabia When: Q1, 2024 This breathtaking overwater villa resort is just the sixth Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the world. Known for their remote and untouched locations, they don’t come much more unspoiled than Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea, which has largely been off-limits to visitors – until now. The resort features 63 water and beach villas, a speciality seafood restaurant, pampering spa, and an educational Conservation House. Pair that with Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s intuitive service and locally inspired focus, and you’ve got an alluring island escape unlike any other. ritzcarlton.com

01

One&Only Kea Island, Greece When: Spring 2024 Trade the tourist-packed Cyclades of Santorini and Mykonos for Kea, a lesser-known isle within this soughtafter archipelago that’s as verdant as it is rugged. Here, luxurious One&Only will debut its second Grecian – and only third European – property this spring.

Accessible from the Greek capital by a 30-minute boat or 15 minute helicopter ride, this former holiday destination du jour of Athenians-in-the-know will soon be home to an all-villa resort set against the backdrop of the dramatic coastal cliffside. One- and two-bedroom villas come with either sea or cliff views, and all offer secluded privacy, their own swimming pool, and the kind of breezy interiors that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor space. A central swimming pool and beach club are stylish spots to drink in the resort experience, while thrilling aquatic adventures like sailing and snorkelling await in the Aegean Sea. oneandonlyresorts.com/kea-island 66 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Waldorf Astoria Platt Island, Seychelles

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Waldorf Astoria Platt Island, Seychelles When: February 2024 Due to its proximity, gorgeous beaches and ever-alluring weather, the Seychelles are an enduringly popular choice for UAE inhabitants seeking a long weekend escape. If it’s on your hit list for 2024, consider the Waldorf Astoria’s debut resort, a private island escape where an impressive collection of restaurants and activities unroll along lush vegetation and golden sands. Five-star facilities in each villa includes private pools, an outdoor shower and dedicated concierge to cater to guests’ every whim. There’s plenty to keep travellers busy, from whale watching to cooking classes, plus pampering aplenty at the relaxing spa. hilton.com

07

Janu Tokyo, Japan

04

Soneva Secret, Maldives When: February 2024 From the man that put the Maldives on the map comes Soneva Secret.

Guests will check-in to one of just 14 villas, which include the Maldives only floating villa set away from the rest of the resort. Those familiar with sister property Soneva Janu will recognise the Robinson Crusoeinspired overwater villas that come with a slide into the ocean. But the next-level offering extends far beyond that. Curate your itinerary to feature lunch on a secluded sandbank prepared by a private chef, swimming with manta rays, or an evening exploring the resort’s expansive wine cellar, reachable via zipline. soneva.com

Soneva Secret, Maldives

Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, Indonesia

08

Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London, UK

05

Park Hyatt Marrakech, Morocco

When: March 2024 Ultra-luxury Aman Resorts will debut sister brand, Janu with its flagship hotel in Tokyo. The Janu ethos is all about shared social experiences, and the 4,000 square metre wellness space will feature one of Tokyo’s biggest gyms, alongside a 25-metre lap pool, a duo of Spa Houses, and a recovery studio complete with oxygen chamber. On the culinary front, a celebration of Italian flavour awaits at all-day dining restaurant, Janu Mercato; then there’s a pair of Japanese restaurants, called Ligura and Sumi. Completing the restaurant repertoire are Janu Grill, with its spectacular show kitchen and two large wine cellars; and Hu Jing, where guests can savour Cantonese signatures. janu.com

Janu Tokyo, Japan

Park Hyatt Marrakech, When: Early 2024 Morocco The long-awaited Park Hyatt Marrakech will debut in early 2024.

Set outside of the bustling Marrakech medinas, it’s set to be the ideal resort stay for those looking to escape the fast-paced city feel while still feeling like they’re close to all the action. Golf lovers can look forward to an 18-hole golf course, while further facilities include a unique spa, several restaurants and stunning Atlas Mountain views. Of the 130 guest rooms, more than half are suites that harmoniously the contemporary with the classic.

Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London, UK hyatt.com

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Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, Indonesia When: Q4, 2024 If a blissful immersion into untamed jungle is high on your 2024 bucket list, then make for Anantara Ubud Bali Resort. This resort will fuse the brand’s Thai touch with a tropical experience befitting of the Ubud locale, and will be all about embracing serenity. A collection of 66 guest rooms and villas await guests, with the beautiful pool villas set to be one of the most appealing new offerings in the area. On-property, a pool bar, collection of internationally influenced restaurants and Anantara Spa are available to those that just want to drop-and-flop.

But the nearby rolling rice fields, temples and cultural icons shouldn’t be missed. anantara.com/ubud-bali

When: Early 2024 In the beating heart of London’s most iconic luxury neighbourhood, Mandarin Oriental Mayfair will debut in early 2024. Promising to bring the brand’s signature Asian flair to a district that’s renowned for luxury and style, the 50-room hotel is complimented by 77 private residences, all of which will benefit from discreet, sleek, and personalised service. Among the array of facilities, the property will see the arrival of acclaimed chef Akira Back’s first UK restaurant, as well as his ‘ABar Lounge’ concept and ‘ABar’ rooftop bar.

There will also be a strong focus on wellness, and as such the hotel will house a signature spa that promises to be an urban utopia, featuring a 25-metre heated pool, biohacking treatments, and a state-of-the-art gym. mandarinoriental.com

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TRAVEL // GERMANY Words: Aarti Saundalkar

Germany GREEN, GREEN

Berlin is emerging as one of the world’s top destinations for eco-tourism. Here’s how to tread its best bits without leaving a heavy footprint

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T

ravel. Whatever the reason behind it, business or pleasure, the thrill of experiencing new cultures and cuisines, or just ticking a landmark off your bucket list, we should always consider the impact that travel has on our planet.

The buzz surrounding eco-tourism has never been more prominent. And in some destinations, such as the German capital of Berlin, green travel is making exploration of the city’s big-hitting hotspots even more fulfilling.

WHERE TO STAY

Here’s how to get the best out of Berlin, whilst staying green.

DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Lulu Guldsmeden Berlin A number of hotels in Berlin have made the choice to go sustainable. Stay at Lulu Guldsmeden in the heart of the city, where sustainability has always been a priority with huge efforts being directed towards minimising its environmental impact and responsibly managing the resources the hotel relies on.

Inside, the hotel and the rooms feature a unique combination of modern design and Nordic-style sleekness. You will find bottles made from recycled plastics which you can take around as you explore Berlin, bamboo toothbrushes, toothpaste tablets, bed linen made from organic cotton, and much more. Incredibly cosy, warm and homey, the rooms are just what you need after a long day of exploring the city’s cultural and culinary spoils.

Tucking into a meal at the hotel? Lu Liba serves a fusion of Mediterranean and Lebanese flavours with a unique Guldsmeden twist. All the dishes are made with 100 per cent organic ingredients. Additionally, all food is sourced sans flight and even though the varied menu serves meat, many items can be ordered in vegetarian or vegan versions. At Lu Libar, you can enjoy the local beer, great wine, organic soft drinks, spirits and more.

Additionally, any elements from the breakfast buffet is implemented into the a la carte menu, reducing food wastage to nearly zero. If there are any leftovers after that, the scraps are taken and turned into biofuel.

If you want to really feel like a Berliner, few sites embody the city better than Tempelhof Airport.

No, we aren’t embarking on an elaborate way of telling you to go home: what was Berlin’s first airport is now a public park. It’s free to enter and is packed with people taking walks, exercising, skating, walking their dogs, or just enjoying me-time. There’s even an urban gardening section in the park, which is owned by residents, where they grow lettuce, carrots, tomatoes and more.

From Dhs450 per night. guldsmedenhotels.com

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TRAVEL // GERMANY

WHERE TO EAT Berlin, like any other multicultural cosmopolitan city, is home to a number of cuisines for you to enjoy. And most of them, if not all – can be enjoyed with a vegan twist.

Want a guide? Explore the streets of Kreuzberg with Fork & Walk Tours and get ready to be veganised.

Wen Cheng 2

Soi and Co For dessert, Soi and Co is a plant-based cafe serving up Instagrammable vegan pastries, ice cream and specialty coffee.

Chocolate fans must try the tamari chocolate sponge cake, which is an undoubted highlight on the city’s dessert scene. It’s created by infusing three-year fermented tamari (a type of soy sauce) into the cake creating umami notes, which complement the rich, bitter and sweet, notes of chocolate. @soiandco

momos

Soi and Co

momos

For a light bite in-between your Berlin exploration, make a pit stop at momo – a 10-year-old restaurant serving up homemade organic veggie dumplings made with plenty of love. Only certified organic ingredients are used in the preparation, from the veggies to the herbs, but the result is a mouthful of pure goodness. There are eight dumpling filling choices including hot potato, eggplant, chickpeas, mushroom and feta cheese & spinach. There are three dip options to dunk your momos in, and you can pick from a platter of eight, 14 or 18 momos. @momosberlin

Taqueria El Oso

Taqueria El Oso

Brammibal’s Donuts

Brammibal’s Donuts

Did you know, a vegan diet results in less climate-heating emissions, water pollution and land use. So remember, the next time you’re in Berlin, make it vegan it’s absolutely veg-tastic…

70 JANUARY 2024 | WHATSON.AE

Arrive too late at Wen Cheng and you may just miss out on some of the city’s best homemade Chinese hand pulled noodles. Before even opening its doors, diners are queued up outside the restaurant hoping to get a table at first seating. Hand pulled noodles in homemade stew and a mild chilli oil are plated with the restaurant’s special sauce, coriander and Asian pickles. You can pick your spice levels – spicy (a level two spice level) or Asian spicy (a level three spice level) and if you want more heat, you can add chilli oil.

There are beef, lamb and tofu options, or opt for aubergine with soy minced meat for a plant-based alternative. @wencheng_ handpullednoodles

For a lighter sweet treat end to your dining experience, make a beeline to Brammibal’s Donuts. There are six locations around Berlin, and they’ve been serving up vegan handmade gourmet doughnuts and coffee since 2015. The flavours are numerous and there are seasonal flavours too for tucking in with a twist. @brammibalsdonuts

You can find this lively Mexican taqueria in Markthalle Pfefferberg – a food hall in Schönhauser Allee, which serves up delicious mouth-watering tacos. The menu is limited, but crowds of hungry tourists and locals line up for a chance to tuck in. There’s also a vegan version and each bite is packed with freshness and flavour. You can add on as many topings as you like before you run back to the line for seconds. @taqueria_el_oso_berlin

WHERE TO SHOP Love fashion? Walk in style across an environmentally friendly green catwalk decked out in Berlin’s finest handmade sustainable fashionwear.

Meher Kakalia You can spend an hour in Meher Kakalia’s store just admiring the finely crafted shoes, bags and accessories. All of the pieces in Meher’s unique collection stand out with craftwork from the Moghul Kings and Queens era, which is over 400 years old. It has been passed down through the generations and Meher worked closely with these women learning the tricks of the trade. She is now helping keep the craft alive in her ateliers in Berlin and London.

In keeping with the theme of sustainability, Meher’s workshop in Karachi operates only in the daylight and uses embellishments spun from plastic waste. @meherkakalia

Trippen Trippen is an unconventional footwear store designed in Berlin born during the early 90s. Each shoe looks different and is created using a sustainable process. This includes using a water-based glue, vegetable tanned leather and other green initiatives. The store is even working intensively on the development of vegan shoes. When you do shop here, you will see a few symbols next to the shoes which showcase if the shoe is undyed, vegetable tanned, metal free, plastic component free, adhesive free and more. @trippen.official

If you’re the sort of traveller that likes to plan ahead, your top itinerary hot spots should include the Bradenburg Gate (though it’s currently under restoration), and the Berlin Cathedral. For art lovers, your trip is not complete without a visit to Museum Island, which is home to five popular museums: the Altes Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, Neues Museum and the Pergamonmuseum (also currently under renovation).

Humboldt Forum The Humboldt Forum opened its doors in 2021 and is considered the ‘German equivalent’ of the British Museum. It houses nonEuropean collections of the Berlin State Museums, temporary exhibitions and even hosts public events. humboldtforum.org/

Meher Kakalia

Trippen

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS IN BERLIN

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL Intercity buses, subways, trams, bicycles, scooters, car sharing – if there’s a sustainable way to get around the city, you’re sure to find it in Berlin.

Of course, you can make like a local and walk from one spot to the other. Psst Berliners love to walk, so you’ll fit right in.

Futurium Museum About a 20-minute subway ride away from Museum Island, you will find The Futurium, (also known as the Futurium Museum, or Musée Futurium), a museum focusing on the future. Similar to Dubai’s own Museum of the Future, the innovative exhibit-packed space invites guests to answer the question ‘how do we want to live?’. Visitors can explore many possible futures here and they can participate in open discussions or even try out their own ideas in the super fun, hands-on Futurium Lab. futurium.de/

HOW TO GET THERE Turkish Airlines flies to Berlin three times daily from Dubai from Dhs2,250. turkishairlines.com WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 71

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A PAIR OF GOLD TICKETS TO PLUMA CIRCUS SHOW From the creative minds that brought you the aquatic circus spectacular that is Fontana, comes Pluma. The enthralling new Cirque Du Liban show tells the story of Pluma, meaning feather, who has big dreams of taking flight. She gets whisked away into another realm where she meets other beings that share age-old secrets of flight, and encourage Pluma to find her own wings. Excited? We’ve got five pairs of gold tickets to give away. T&Cs Apply

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

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AN OVERNIGHT STAY AT AL WATHBA DESERT RESORT & SPA This desert escape is the perfect opportunity to unwind and relax while escaping the hustle and bustle of the busy city. As well as an overnight stay nestled among the dunes, you’ll get to enjoy full-board dining and a 60-minute massage for you and that special someone. T&Cs Apply

For your chance to win, go to whatson.ae/win WHATSON.AE | JANUARY 2024 73

TRAVEL // STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT Words: Aarti Saundalkar

Address Beach Resort Fujairah A beach break that ticks all the boxes on the East Coast…

LOCATION If complete seclusion is what you’re after, Address Beach Resort Fujairah is calling your name. Located around a 90-minute drive from Dubai, it swaps the sounds of traffic and general city life for the calming lap of Gulf waves and views of the rocky Hajar Mountains at its idyllic east coast Address.

LOOK AND FEEL The drive in might be longer than the average commute, but it’s picturesque, and any tired feelings evaporate at the door with a warm welcome in the airy lobby, and that signature Address scent wafting through the air. The hotel is just seven floors tall, forgoing the skyscraping heights its sister properties in Dubai tend to favour to make the most of the mountain vistas.

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ROOMS

FOOD AND DRINK

Pick from mountain view rooms, pool view rooms, ocean view rooms, and even a suite that sleeps up to eight. As for the aesthetics, the rooms are adorned in blue, beige and white hues bringing an extension of the outdoor natural elements to the interiors.

Oh-so cosy beds are perfectly springy to sink into and doze off on, which is exactly what we did after a blissful afternoon at the resort.

Although SALiA is primarily a beachside seafood restaurant, where you can dine on the fresh catch of the day, you can also find great steaks and pasta on the menu.

Our favourite dish was the confit calamari, a pan-fried dish swimming in a lemony buttery sauce with a great punch of Emirati spices. The staff here go the extra mile to really make your night special.

As with all other Address hotel venues, you’ll find The Restaurant where you can fuel up at breakfast for the day ahead, be it filled with water-based adrenaline pumping activities, or the drive back home. If you choose to bask by the pool, there’s The Pool Lounge, which serves up a dazzling selection of refreshing beverages, attractive snacks, healthy salads, aromatic pizza and more.

FACILITIES The hotel is home to cascading pools for both little ones and adults, plus a private stretch of beach that encourages visitors to make the most of the stunning surrounds with a day on the sand. For those seeking more adventurous activities, Al Boom Water Sports Club at the property will be able to sign you up for wakeboarding, windsurfing or diving. For adults looking to further relax, there’s a lovely spa that offers pampering treatments like hammams, facials or manicures. For those who can’t afford to miss gym-time, the well-equipped fitness centre is open 24/7 with views of the beach to pump you up.

RATES Prices for a one-night stay in a deluxe mountain view king room with breakfast start from Dhs700 for two people.

Address Beach Resort Fujairah, Al Aqah, Fujairah. Tel: (0)9 204 7777. addresshotels.com

Dogs eat for FREE At Expo City Dubai 8th Jan – 18th Feb 2024

One free dog’s meal with every adult meal!*

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