Tourist English 2015

Tour st Your all-in-one annual guide to the UAE

www.touristmagazine.ae

2015

High in Dubai Taking to the Skies

Melting Pot The Foodie Guide to Restaurants & Cuisines

Majestic Mosques UAE’s Spectacular Places of Worship

For Shopping Outside the Box

Fabulous Shops & Off-Beat Finds

VIPs Only

Experiencing the UAE in Ultimate Luxury

Leisure & Recreation | Tours & Attractions | Art & Culture | Events & Exhibitions Dining & Nightlife | Shopping | Beauty & Wellbeing | Hotels | Essentials

Contents

32

2015

30

Yas Waterwold

36

Into The Wild

40

For VIPs Only

52

Big Bus Without a Fuss

54

Tales of the City

58

DSF at a glance

A mega waterpark experience in the region

Animal and wildlife watching in the UAE: where to do it

How to experience the UAE in ultimate luxury

A fun and time-friendly way to take in all the sights and sounds of the city without the hassle

Interview with Len Chapman, Dubai resident 1971-2003

How to make the most of Dubai Shopping Festival

Build It and They Will Come

5 audacious attractions every tourist must visit

Tours & Attractions 20

High in Dubai

26

Beneath the Surface

44

Our round-up of the best ways to take to the skies

City Strolls

Dry places to discover the spectacular aquatic life in the UAE

Itineraries to travel on foot and discover hidden gems

8

70

82

Life is a Beach

86

Beach Club Bonanza

90

The Great Outdoors

Our pick of the best public beaches in the country

UAE's most glamorous beach clubs

The definitive guide to outdoor adventures and activities in the UAE

Dining & Nightlife

Active in the UAE

Most people visit the UAE to enjoy the sunshine, skyline and shopping malls the country is famous for, but if you are an active soul that enjoys waking up at the crack of dawn to do something different, then we invite you to try your hand at some of the more cultural sports the Emirates boasts.

Leisure & Recreation 62

Cool Places

64

Splish Splash

66

Adventures of Atlantis

68

Bubble Bubble

76

Just a Swing Away

94

A Table for Two

104

Happy Hours

106

Melting Pot

Romantic dining experiences with cosy ambiances, breath-taking views, saucy cuisines and seductive beverages

Our pick of the best happy hours in Dubai

Treat your palette to an endless array of flavours with our restaurant guide

Will Work for Brunch We ate our way through dozens of brunches to bring you the 10 best in town

Experience frosty fun and frolic while in Dubai

Summer doesn't have to be so hot when you have waterparks to splash around at

Tantalizing attractions on offer

98

Unwinding to the uniquely relaxed mood of shisha

Your guide to golf in the UAE

10

116 112 114

The Little Black Book

Our guide to essential parties, nightclubs and after-dark Action that will put “life” into your “nightlife”

A Fruitful Experience

Exotic fruits you must try when visiting the UAE

Spice It Up

A glimpse into the world of spices before you hit the Spice Souk

Majestic Mosques

The UAE is exuberant with mosques of amazing architecture. Some of these mosques have become renowned landmarks for their beauty and grandeur, so much so that some of them have been dedicated to receiving non-Muslim visitors who are intrigued by these marvellous places of worship.

Art & Culture 120

Set in Stone

132

Curtain Call

134

The Finer Things

The most significant historical and archaeological attractions to visit in the UAE

Theatres and performing arts in the UAE Our scoop on the art scene in the Emirates

Beauty & Wellbeing 138

126

Time for Recovery

Our pick of the 5 best spas and pampering havens

12

152

Hotels 144

The Sands of Time

150

On A Budget

A round-up of desert oases and destinations for those who seek solitude, dry air, and warm Arabian hospitality

10 wallet-friendly hotels for travellers on a budget

Suite Life

Peek inside the 5 most luxurious hotel suites in the UAE

Shopping

160 Shopping Outside the Box

Your guide to charming off-beat shops in the UAE

14

158

Treasure Hunt

166

Attention to Retail

172

Sandalye,ci: chairs and more...

174

Bon Voyage

176

Case Closed

Make your visit to the UAE golden with a trip to the country’s glittery gold and jewellery marketplaces Sure, the UAE has got plenty of shopping destinations but follow this guide and discover the best retail experiences the region has to offer Sandalye,ci arrives in Dubai to offer exclusive solutions for exclusive spaces

10 Great travel accessories for your next trip

Tourist rounds up the best luggage to help you carry your belongings in style

Essentials 184

Trouble-Free in the UAE

187

Getting Around

Quick pointers to keep you out of trouble when visiting the Emirates A guide to transportation systems that will keep moving during your holiday in the UAE

184 178

Living in the land of Luxury

We highlight the top benefits of residing in the UAE

15

190

Events in Abu Dhabi

191

Events in Dubai

192

Exhibitions in Abu Dhabi

194

Exhibitions in Dubai

200

Exhibitions in Sharjah

202

Hospitals & Pharmacies Directory

203

Airlines Directory

205

Embassies & Consulates Directory

208

Hotel Directory

Distribution HOTELS

Hues Boutique Hotel

Sofitel The Palm Resort & Spa

Copthorne Hotel Sharjah

Dubai:

Hyatt Regency

Somewhere Hotel Dubai

Coral Beach Resort

Al Bustan Centre & Residence

Ibis Al Barsha hotel

Spectrum Hotel Dubai

Ewan Hotel

Al Bustan Rotana

Ibis Al Rigga Hotel

Suha City Hotel

Golden Beach Motel

Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana

Ibis Deira City Centre

Suite Novotel Mall of the Emirates

Grand Excelsior Hotel Sharjah

Al Khaleej Hotel

Ibis Mall of the Emirates

Sun & Sky Al Rigga Hotel

Grand Hotel Sharjah

Al Murooj Rotana

Intercontinental DFC

The Address Downtown

Green House Resort

Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah

JA Ocean View Hotel

The Address Dubai Marina

Hilton Sharjah

Al Sarab Hotel

JW Marriott Marquis

Time Oak Hotel & Suites

Holiday International Hotel

Amwaj Rotana

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Vida Downtown

Lords Hotel Sharjah

Anantara The Palm Resort & Spa

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel

Warwick Hotel

Lou Lou A Beach Resort

Arjaan by Rotana Dubai Media City

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Taj Palace

Marbella Resort

Armada Hotel

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Tamani Marina Hotel

Mermaid Hotel Sharjah

Asian Hotel

Kempinski Hotel Palm Jumeirah

Time Grand Plaza Hotel

Nova Park Hotel

Atlantis The Palm

Kempinski Mall of the Emirates

Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi

Radisson BLU Shajah

Auris First Central Hotel Suites

Landmark Rigga

Yassat Gloria Hotel Apartments

Ramada Sharjah

Auris Plaza Hotel

Le Meridien Dubai Hotel

Avari Dubai Hotel

Le Meridien Mina Seyahi

Abu Dhabi:

Royal Grand Suite Hotel

Avenue Hotel Dubai

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort

Al Ain Palace

Sharjah Carlton Hotel

Bluebay Black Stone Hotel

Lords Hotel

Al Diar Capitol Hotel

Sharjah Rotana

Boutique 7 Hotel & Suites

Lords Hotel Rigga

Al Raha Beach

Sharjah Palace Hotel

Byblos Hotel Dubai

Marina Byblos Hotel

Beach Rotana

Sharjah Premiere Hotel and Resort

Carlton Tower Hotel

Marina View Hotel Apartments

Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort

Shatee Al Raha

Cassells Al Barsha Hotel

Marmara Hotel Apartments

Centro Yas Island

Summerland Motel

Capitol Hotel

Marriott Hotel Al Jadaf

Crowne Plaza Yas Island

Tulip Inn Sharjah

Citymax Hotels Al Barsha

Media Rotana

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi

City Season Hotel

Mercure Gold Hotel

Emirates Palace

Ajman:

City Season Suites

Metropolitan Deira

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr

Ajman Kempinski

City Star Hotel

Metropolitan Palace

Grand Millenium Al Wahda

Ajman Beach Hotel

Comfort Inn

Millennium Plaza

Golden Tulip Al Jazira

Ajman Palace

Comfort Inn Hotel & Apartment

Mina A’Salam Madinat Jumeirah

Hilton Abu Dhabi Capital Grand

Ajman Saray

Copthorne Hotel

Moevenpick Hotel Bur Dubai

Hyatt Capital Gate

Ramada Beach Ajman

Coral Al Khoory Hotel Apartments

Moevenpick Hotel Deira

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers

Coral Deira Hotel

Moevenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi

Ras Al Khaimah:

Cosmopolitan Hotel

Moscow Hotel

Le Royale Meridien

Al Hamra Village

Crowne Plaza DFC

Nihal Hotel

Millennium Corniche Abu Dhabi

Beach Hotel

Crowne Plaza Dubai

Novotel City Centre

Novotel Abu Dhabi

Beach Resort

Donatello Hotel Apartments

Oberoi Dubai

Park Inn by Radisson

City Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Jumeirah Beach

One and Only the Palm

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi

Double Tree by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Residences Dubai

Orchid Hotel

Park Rotana Abu Dhabi

Double Tree by Hilton Marjan Island

Panorama Hotel

Radisson Blu Yas Island

Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort

Dream Palace Hotel

Pullman Deira City Centre

Royal Rose Hotel

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

Radisson Blu Dubai Creek

Sheraton Abu Dhabi

Radisson Blu Dubai Marina

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort & Spa

Dubai Palm

Radisson Royal Hotel

Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche

Emirates Grand

Royal Crowne

Raffles Dubai

St. Regis Abu Dhabi

Eureka Hotel

Ramada Hotel Dubai

St. Regis Saadiyat Island

Ewa Hotel

Ramada Jumeirah

The Royal International

Fairmont the Palm

Ramee Rose Hotel

Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri

Flora Grand Hotel

Reflection Hotel

Warwick Hotel

Flora Park Hotel

Regent Beach Resort

Yas Island Rotana

Gloria Hotel

Riviera Hotel

Yas Viceroy Hotel

Grand Central Hotel

Ritz Carlton Jumeirah

Grand Excelsior Hotel

Rixos The Palm

Al Ain:

Grand Hyatt

Rose Rayhan by Rotana

Al Ain Rotana

Grand Millennium Dubai

Royal Falcon Hotel

Danat Al Ain

Grandeur Hotel

Towers Rotana

Hilton Hotel Al Ain

Grosvenore House Dubai

Saffron Hotel

Mecure Hotel Grand Jebel Hafeet

Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa

Samaya Hotel

Hallmark Hotel

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai

Sharjah:

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort

72 by Hues

Holiday Inn Downtown

Sheraton

Al Bustan Beach Hotel

Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha

Signature Inn

Al Seef Beach Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport

Skyline Hotel Apartment Dubai

Aryana Hotel Sharjah

Holiday Inn Jumeirah

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

Beach Hotel

16

Rixos Bab Al Bahr The Cove Rotana Fujairah: City Tower Hotel Clifton International Concorde by Mourouj Fujairah Fortune Royal Fujairah Beach Motel Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa Hilton Fujairah Holiday Beach Motel Hotel Novotel Fujairah Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort Nour Arjaan by Rotana Oceanic Khor Fakkan Royal Beach Hotel Radisson Blu Fujairah Sandy Beach Hotel EMBASSIES & CONSULATES

Tourist ANNUAL TOURIST GUIDE

Cover: Photographed by Malek Al Jindi Models: Marina Berestuk, Sergei Potapenko

Editor-in-Chief: N. Kuznetsova Managing Editor: A. Gazizova Editors: W. Dahhan, O. Kuzmina Art Director: P. Korsun Designer: A. Vergel Advertising Department: Y. Negriy, O. Zapasko, M. Ocampo, L. De Guzman Distribution Department: S. Noor

TOURIST annual guide in English language is distributed free of charge.

2015 All rights reserved.

Net Art Information Technology & Publishing

The publisher regrets that it cannot accept liability for any errors or iinaccuracies printer, however caused. All articles contained within ORIENTIR are under copyright to the publisher and cannot be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without written permission of the publisher.

P.O. Box 13294 Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 258 3778 Fax: +971 4 258 3779 E-mail: info@netart-it.com www.netart-it.com

Printed by Al Ghurair Printing Press

www.touristmagazine.ae

17

Editor's Message

2015

Dear Reader,

Welcome to the 2015 edition of Tourist Magazine – your all in one guide to the United Arab Emirates. Allow me also to bid you welcome to the country, which unfailingly continues to intrigue, inspire, and surprise visitors from all over the world.

Into another year closer to EXPO 2020, Dubai is beginning to show glimpses of its ambitious plans promising a truly unprecedented World Expos. Work is in full swing, and the city is now brimming with more five-star hotels, culinary gems, cultural hotspots, heart-racing events and bustling mega malls than ever. It is indeed a very exciting time for Dubai and its people, visitors, and neighbouring emirates.

With so much more than meets the eye, we are delighted as always to bring you the best picks and suggestions to inspire you and help you pack the best experiences into your break in this marvellous country, which we lovingly call home.

For further updates during your stay, please visit our website (www.touristmagazine.ae) and don’t forget to like our Facebook page and upload your photos! We are eager to see where Tourist Magazine takes you. Wherever you end up, we hope you have a wonderful time!

Waseem Dahhan Editor Follow Tourist Magazine

twitter.com/TouristMagazine

facebook.com/TouristMagazine

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to provide accurate and

current information at the time of publication. However, as information, including but not limited to, information about services,

products, places, and contact details remain subject to change, the publisher cannot be responsible for any errors or inaccuracies contained in this publication.

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

HIGH in

DUBAI

20

Issue 2015

FROM TOURING THE CITY’S LANDMARKS IN A HELICOPTER TO SOARING ABOVE THE SERENE DESERTS IN A HOT AIR BALLOON, HERE’S OUR ROUND-UP OF THE BEST WAYS TO TAKE TO THE SKIES AND ENJOY THE BEST OF VIEWS.

Zip through Dubai’s best landmarks in a helicopter with

Heli Dubai

Tour Dubai Bond style? Check! With Heli Dubai helicopter tours, you will see Dubai through the window of helicopter; taking off from the helipad at Festival City, you will follow the creek winding past the Creek golf course and continue over the Spice Souk and the historical areas of Dubai.

You will then follow the coastline over Jumeirah beach, Safa Park and the breathtaking skyline along Dubai's main highway to make your return over Zabeel parks and palaces. Time your tour after sunset to be stunned by the glittering lights of Dubai by night. www.helidubai.com 800 FLY (359) or +971 4 208 1455

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Enjoy a breathtaking aerial excursion that starts at sea with Seawings On Seawings’ seaplane tours, you will get airborne from the pristine waters of the gulf only to enjoy the most astonishing views of the picturesque emirates. Seawings offers various exciting seaplane tours in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as well as private charters to a number of destinations across the UAE. Choose between the Dubai Creek tour of the charming Old Dubai and the Jebel Ali tour offering you the chance to admire the architectural wonders of the modern side of the city. If you happen to be in Abu Dhabi, you can catch a glimpse of the capital city of the UAE with the Abu Dhabi Pearl tour. www.seawings.ae +971 4 807 0708

Jump from an airplane plummeting through the skies and parachute to land safely with Skydive Dubai Ok, maybe jumping out of an airplane is not all for the views but there are still a whole lot of them to enjoy once your heart comes back to a beat. With a drop zone located near the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Skydive Dubai offers Tandem skydives for those who want to feel the thrill of free falling. All tandem dives are done while you are harnessed to a professional instructor who is there to make sure you touchdown unharmed as you enjoy the amazing views. www.skydivedubai.ae +971 4 377 8888

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Issue 2015

Rise with the sun over the desert in hot air balloon with Amigos Balloons Watch with excitement as your balloon is inflated, heated and becomes lighter than air, then climb aboard. Rising with the sun above the desert, and drifting silently with the wind will make you feel like time is standing still, before the exhilarating blast of the burners gets the pulse racing once more. After landing, you can celebrate your achievement with a satisfying breakfast and refreshing drink in the sun. www.amigos-balloons.com +971 4 289 9295

Soar as a bird in a Microlight with Jazirah

Aviation Club

Microlights are small aircraft that seat two people only, but do not let their size fool you. These small planes will have you skimming swiftly through the clouds as if you were a bird. As Microlights come in closed and open cockpits, it is up to you to choose whether you want to feel the wind – and the occasional bug – against your face or be cocooned in a closed cockpit as you glide through the skies. To experience the tremendous fun of a Microlight flight, you will have to hand your fate to one of professional pilots at Jazirah Avation Club in Ras al Khaimah, who will take you for a jaw-dropping joyride above the emirate. www.jac-uae.net +971 7 244 6416

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Tourist | Hotels

AMIGOS BALL

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Issue 2015

LOONS

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Beneath the Surface 26

Issue 2015

Covering two-thirds of our planet, the oceans are full of spectacular wonders, and what happens beneath their surfaces can be quite a spectacle, but who says you have to brave the depth of the oceans to discover the amazing secrets they hold? While in the UAE, you can take in the sights of the captivating aquatic life on our planet without even getting your feet wet. By planning a trip to one of the aquariums and underwater zoos spread across the county, you will be able to get up close and personal with sharks, rays and other gorgeous sea creatures ranging from colourful fish to sea turtles. We scoured the country to find all the aquariums you can visit.

The Lost Chambers at Atlantis, The Palm

Located with the five-star Atlantis Hotel, The Lost Chambers is a theme aquarium based on the mysterious ruins of Atlantis, lost for thousands of years deep beneath the sea. Here you will be surrounded by 65,000 marine animals as you explore the underwater mazes and tunnels of this lost civilization while encountering sharks, eels, seahorses, and piranhas. There are over 20 remarkable marine life exhibits in this Dubai aquarium including a touch tank and an interactive Aquatheatre show.

Marine Educators invite you on a guided tour of The Lost Chambers Aquarium, scheduled hourly throughout the day. These interactive tours give further insights into the legend of Atlantis, traditions of the Seven Sages and amazing facts about the marine life that inhabits this Dubai aquarium.

Fish Feedings, Ultimate Dive Experience, Ultimate Snorkelling, Aquatheatre and Behind The Scenes Tours are some of the activities that add to the interactive experience for visitors. www.atlantisthepalm.com +971 4 426 1040

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Dubai Aquarium

Located in Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest and most diverse aquariums in the world, featuring the world’s largest acrylic viewing panel. With a 10-million-litre suspended aquarium tank, an enormous diversity of marine species inhabits the Dubai Aquarium to recreate a fascinating marine environment in near-perfect detail.

The aquarium houses thousands of aquatic animals, comprising over 140 species. Over 400 Sharks and Rays live in this tank, including the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world, while new species are regularly added to the aquatic animal community, with recent additions being the exquisite Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks and Silver tip Sharks.

There are numerous ways for visitors to experience the main Aquarium tank; the simplest of them being a walk-through a long tunnel 11 metres below the surface. Other interactive features include Glass Bottom Boat Rides, Cage Snorkelling Experience, The Ocean School Programme, feeding presentations and the Aquarist Programme.

Dubai Dolphinarium

Although this can’t be called an aquarium, it is definitely one of the region’s most loved attractions of marine life. Here you can get up close and personal to graceful bottlenose dolphins and playful seals at the action-packed live shows. This interactive extravaganza showcases these amazing animals' astounding skills. Visitors watch in wonder as the dolphins and seals perform incredible acrobatics, dance, sing, juggle, play ball, jump through hoops and even paint.

www.thedubaiaquarium.com +971 4 448 5200

www.dubaidolphinarium.ae +971 4 336 9773

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Issue 2015

Dinner with a view If your eyes have gotten used to looking at the spellbinding undersea life, then why not combine that with the delight of dining in an elegant restaurant? Here are two restaurants in Dubai where you can enjoy a delectable meal while enjoying colourful fish swimming beside your table: Al Mahara Burj Al Arab, Dubai +971 4 301 7600 Ossiano Atlantis The Palm, Dubai +971 4 426 2626

Sharjah Aquarium

The Sharjah Aquarium, located in Al Khan locality in Sharjah, covers an area of 6500m2, and consists of two floors equipped with 20 water aquariums, each filled with 1.8 million litres of water.

With over 150 species, there is so much to see from the smallest clown fish and delicate seahorses to moray eels, rays, reef sharks and jellyfish. The aquarium features state-of-the-art touchscreens that take you on underwater journey to discover everything from the large ocean creatures to the smaller marine life found in the rock pools, coral reefs, lagoons and mangroves. www.sharjahaquarium.ae +971 6 528 5288

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Cool down and surf up at the UAE’s first

mega waterpark Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi: A Mega Waterpark Experience in the Region

A destination for year-round sunshine with a unique Emirati theme paying tribute to the region’s pearl diving heritage, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and its attractions tell the story of “The Lost Pearl,” an original story about Dana, a young Emirati girl on a quest for the legendary pearl that once brought prosperity to her village. The legend is brought to life for guests of all ages with four interactive children’s playgrounds and exhilarating rides that have never been seen in any other waterpark.

Visitors to Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi are experiencing a mega waterpark experience unlike any seen before in the Middle East. For the adrenaline junkies, a ride on the globe’s Best New Water Ride for 2013 and first ever hydromagnetic-powered 6-person tornado waterslide, Dawwama, is a must.

If this isn’t enough, try out the monstrous Jebel Drop – an extreme body slide that plunges through rock crags. Be warned, the climb to the top isn’t all that’s steep! If you’relooking for more, the Bandit Bomber, the first rollercoaster to incorporate onboard water and laser special effects is not to be missed. Equipped with laser and water guns, prepare for a battle soaking!

If you aspire to the board sports culture, the waterpark also offers flowboarding and surf enthusiasts with the unique opportunity to learn to ride the waves with the Yas Flow League. Drop into the world’s largest FlowBarrel 10 Double Sheet wave ride, Bubble’s Barrel, with special training sessions on offer with former flowboarding world champion, Clayton Barker. Get ready to ride the 3 metre high wave that packs incredible power for maximum fun.

“The aim was to design the best waterpark in the world and create an action-packed park to suit all age groups and preferences, starting with fun children’s playgrounds and ending with adult

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Issue 2015

adventures on incredible rides,” said Tim Mow, General Manager. “The creation of the theme and bringing it to life was also a very rewarding experience. All the rides and attractions at the Park tell the story of Dana’s search for The Lost Pearl. Colorful characters greet visitors at the entrance, the rides are all iconic extensions of our characters and their personalities and even the restaurants are inspired by the story behind the Park. Every zone in the waterpark is themed to ensure guests are truly immersed in the adventure.”

If you simply can’t get enough, you can purchase an annual Yas Waterworld pass from the park’s website at www.yaswaterworld.com.

Besides 365 days of thrills, new Annual Pass members will enjoy a wide selection of benefits, including 10% discount on all food and beverage and 10% discount at the mega waterpark’s souvenir shop. If you’re renewing your annual pass, you’ll gain the above added extras, plus a whole host of other exclusive members-only activities and benefits, including priority updates about upcoming offers.

When it comes to a world-class fun destination that captures the spirit of the Emirates, it really doesn’t get much better than Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi. From the atmospheric setting, the thrilling rides, authentic souq-style shopping attractions and the live entertainment elements, there’s something to amuse the entire family all in one place!

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Build It and They Will Come 5 Audacious Attractions Every Tourist Must Visit If you ask people that live in the UAE what attractions they would visit if they were here as tourists, the answers you would get would be dramatically variant. With endless attractions, the country has more than enough to keep any tourist busy. However, the UAE has been hard at work creating attractions so incredible that a visit to the country solely to visit one of them is worth your while. Despite their differences, these attractions are so outrageously epic and continue to resonate with tourist all over the world. As a tourist, these are the places that are likely to stick around in your memory long after wrapping up your visit to the UAE.

Burj Khalifa No building in modern history has aroused so much intrigue as has Burj Khalifa. Rising gracefully over 828 metres, the tower surpasses all expectations of the beholder.

Not only is Burj Khalifa the world’s tallest building in the record books, it is also the most favourite structure at the hearts of the millions who have seen it.

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Issue 2015

Palm Jumeirah Palm Jumeirah is the world’s largest man-made island. Since its inauguration, tourism elements on the island have been rising to make Palm Jumeirah a spectacular tourism destination in its own right. With over a dozen of world-renowned hotels and resorts, all with spectacular views of the sea, Palm Jumeirah offers visitors a truly unique opportunity to choose between numerous dining, retail and leisure options including a fun-filled waterpark.

Ferrari World The world’s first Ferrari theme park, and largest attraction of its kind, this exhilarating attraction is so worthy of the Ferrari name. The much anticipated theme park has captured the imagination of thousands around the globe since its opening with a range of unique and thrilling attractions including Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, and Speed of Magic, the region’s first four dimensional fantasy ride. Today, enthusiast of Ferrari in the UAE and from around the world continue to venture to Abu Dhabi to be among those to experience this attraction.

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Burj Al Arab Rising over its own man-made island, Burj Al Arab is far more than just a luxurious hotel – it is an iconic structure that perfectly reflects the spirit of Dubai. While the real amazement is inside of the hotel, laying eyes on the distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab for the first time is nothing short of a wondrous experience.

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Issue 2015

Dubai Miracle Garden With more than 45 million blooming flowers creating stunning shapes achieved through 45 different flower varieties, Dubai Miracle Garden is a one-of-a-kind in attraction in the region. This miraculous flower garden has the longest flower wall in the world; a record is in the Guinness Book of Records. Located in Dubailand near the Arabian Ranches and spanning over 72,000 square metres of land, Miracle Garden promises visitors new blooms fashioned to each seasons.

35

Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Into The

WILD

With all the modern attractions the United Arab Emirates has to offer, it’s easy to forget about the fauna and flora and natural attractions. However, embracing a stunning variety of natural habitats ranging from great deserts and wadis to coasts and mangrove swamps, the land supports a vast array of species, each superbly adapted to its particular environment. Sadly, a number of species is endangered and is under the threat of extinction.

Whether you want to spot a spectacular Arabian Leopard in the desert, watch flamingo birds bathe in the lagoons or feed some giraffes at the zoo, you’ll find the where and how here.

Image credit: Arnel Armenta Santonia

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Issue 2015

Ras Al Khor Bird Sanctuary Best for: bird watching The Sanctuary at Ras Al Khor represents an enclave of relative wilderness amidst swirling traffic and sprawling urban infrastructure. Located just as the name in Arabic suggests – at the Cape of the Creek, it is among the few urban protected areas of the world. This wetland reserve is renowned for attracting migratory birds and large numbers of flamingos. Presently, there are three bird hides for bird watching located on the perimeter of the sanctuary.

How to get there: The sanctuary is located off Ras Al Khor Road in Dubai. Entrance is free and timings are 9am to 4pm, Saturday through Thursday. Tel: +971 4 606 6822

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Arabian Wildlife Park Best for: wildlife safaris Taking up approximately half of Sir Bani Yas Island, the 4,200 hectare park is surrounded by a 32km fence, and is home to several thousand free-roaming animals that are indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula. These animals include the endangered Arabian Oryx, Sand Gazelle, Arabian (Mountain) Gazelle, as well as predators and scavengers such as the cheetah and hyena.

Many exciting wildlife and adventure activities are available for visitors. These include Nature & Wildlife Drives in purpose-built four-wheel drive vehicles, guided walks, mountain biking and exclusive outdoor dining experiences.

How to get there: Sir Bani Yas Island is located 250 km along the west coast from Abu Dhabi city. If you would like to visit the island for a day trip, you have to contact the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara (www.desertislands.anantara.com). The resort currently offers day packages for Nature & Wildlife Drives and lunch. Tel: +971 2 801 5400.

Arabia's Wildlife Centre Best for: indoor viewing of free-roaming Arabian wildlife.

Arabia’s Wildlife centre is home to over 100 species including reptiles, invertebrates, birds, nocturnal animals, ungulates and large carnivores, all displayed in safe, spacious and natural surroundings. Arabian wildlife is also the only zoological park in the Middle East to be completely indoors, making it good for a visit, regardless of the weather condition.

Image credit: EPAA Sharjah

38

How to get there: the Wildlife Centre is located in Sharjah's Desert Park approximately 25 km east of the city of Sharjah on the Al Dhaid highway (E88, Sharjah Airport Road) at interchange 9.

Issue 2015

Al Ain Zoo Best for: animal feeding and children activities Al Ain Zoo is home to over 3,700 animals of 197 animal species. Visitors to the zoo can see a large collection of animal in enclosures that closely resemble their natural habitats. There are plenty of green spaces for picnics, playgrounds, a cafeteria and a train tour. Giraffe feeding, camel riding and ‘Elezba’ petting zoo are some of the interactive activities visitors can enjoy.

How to get there: Once in Al Ain City, follow the brown tourist signs to Al Ain Zoo. Tel: +971 3 704 1500

Dubai Zoo Best for: quick visits due to the convenient location The Dubai Zoo is the first zoo to become operational in the Arabian Peninsula. Originally only filled with big cats, monkeys and a few other animal species when it first opened, the Dubai Zoo which you will experience today is a world away from what it used to be. Today, the zoo consists of 5 acres of land and offers over 200 animal species for the public to view, including the Arabian wolf, the Gordon's wildcat and various primates and birds of prey.

Those who visit the zoo can see a number of beautiful animals and enjoy the outdoor setting, all at a low admission price of AED 2.

How to get there: The zoo is easily accessible from Jumeirah Road in Dubai. Tel: +971 4 344 0462

Emirates Park Zoo Best for: exotic wild animals With 660 animals, including a majestic pair of white tigers, a Siberian bear, lions, cheetahs and dozens of zebras housed in the zoo’s ‘Predators’ and ‘Wild Animals’ enclosures, the Emirates Park Zoo offers a fresh experience. The zoo features a ‘misting system’ which keeps animals and visitors cool in the summer months. Laidback and family-oriented atmosphere makes this zoo a place that inspires and encourages kids and adults alike to explore, have fun and stay connected to nature and wildlife.

How to get there: Emirates Park Zoo is located in town called Al Bahia 35km northeast of Abu Dhabi. Tel: +971 2 563 3100

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For VIPs Only Holidays are indulgent in nature, and when money is not an object, there is really no limit to the extravagance one can enjoy. The UAE has built a reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious destinations - a millionaire’s playground if you will. For those who want their tour around the country’s attractions to be an extension of their first-class flight or five-star hotel experiences, we have chalked down the best ways to experience the UAE in seamless elegance and luxury.

The Desert The desert’s beauty is one of the most astounding things to behold while in the UAE. And there’s no better way to experience the miraculous silence and charm of the endless sand dunes than a desert safari.

This experience is further enhanced with Platinum Heritage (www.platinum-heritage. com), the UAE’s bona fide luxury desert safari operator. With Platinum Heritage, you can discover the rich history of the region, observe native wildlife, ride a camel and soak in the beauty of the pristine desert, all within the exclusive surrounds of a private desert retreat. Making this experience even more exclusive, a legendary Mercedes G-Wagon will be your chariot into the desert.

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The Sea Who says the sea can only be enjoyed at the beach? If you want to enjoy the sea, and enjoy to the fullest, a yacht is what you’ll need. Cruising along the coastline of Dubai or Abu Dhabi offers the best vantage point of the city’s skyline, and with a chartered yacht, the choice of what landmarks to visit is absolutely yours to make. For smooth sailing, choose Ultimate Charter (www.dubaiultimatecharter.com), who can truly deliver your ultimate yacht charter experience. The company provides crewed luxury motor yachts, super yachts and mega yachts for the ultimate cruise of your choice.

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

The Sky Wrapping up on all your UAE tours in one day is impossible unless you can fly, but with Aerogulf, fly you will. Aerogulf (www.aerogulfservices.com) can arrange Tourist Flights (along pre-determined routes) using Bell 212 and Bell 206 Long Ranger and Jet Ranger helicopters for local passenger flights within the UAE.

The Road Stretch your memories in Dubai by touring the city in a chauffeured stretch limousine.

Volume Limo (www.volumelimo.com), chauffeurs can you take anywhere you want to go while you relax and soak up the beauty of the city in absolute luxury and privacy. However, if you are the kind of person that enjoys being behind the steering wheel, then you can rent a car from the plethora of exotic, luxury and sports rentals available from Parklane (www.parklanecarrental.com), a name synonymous with style and luxury rentals.

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City Strolls When visiting a country with countless attractions, most tourist guides seem to rush us through the ‘top 10’ and back to the hotel leaving behind many undiscovered hidden gems. For independent travellers who want to step off the main route and explore downside streets at their own pace, we have put together a few itineraries to travel on foot. Follow our footpaths to explore some of the awe-inspiring areas and landmarks the country has to offer.

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Gold Market

SHOP FOR TREASURES in Deira Dubai (Approx. 2 hours)

Before the breakout of shopping malls, Deira was the commercial centre of Dubai. Despite losing its importance to modern developments, Deira is still very popular among tourists who want to practice their bargaining skills while wandering the old souks with their wind towers, inviting merchants and narrow alleys.

Highlights: (1) Deira Grand Souk (2) Al Ahmadiya School (3) Heritage House (4) Gold Souk Begin your tour at Deira Grand Souk located adjacent the Deria abra and water taxi station from the creek. The Grand Souk, also known as the Spice Souk, is a great place to indulge in fragrant spices, henna and other traditional goods. Here all the products are spread before you in same sacks that they were shipped in.

Exiting the souk, turn towards Al Ras Road leaving the creek behind you and dig deep into the neighbourhood to find Al Ahmadiya School. This is first school in Dubai. It dates back to 1912 and is a great example of the exquisite architecture of those days. After admiring the great historic value of the school, find your way to the Al Ahmadiya Street. Around the corner stands Heritage House. This 38-year old courtyard house belonged to Sheikh Ahmed bin Dalmouk, the founder of Al Ahmadiya School. The house has been turned to a museum which offers a peek at the bygone. The next stop is the Gold Souk. Take a stroll down this souk to truly understand why Dubai is often called the "City of Gold".

Heritage Village

Al Ahmadiya School

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Grand Souk

Issue 2015 Old Dubai Abra Creek

For anyone who is not used to walking a lot, Big Bus hop-on hop-off tours can be a good approach to get the most of your walking tour and circumvent from tired feet. - See more on page 52.

DISCOVER THE HERITAGE in Bur Dubai (Approx. 4 hours)

Grand Mosque

Before the arrival of skyscrapers, Dubai consisted of small neighbourhoods. The most remarkable of these neighbourhoods was Bur Dubai. The area is still true to its origins, thanks to the government’s efforts to preserve this heritage. On this walking tour, you will experience the nostalgia of old Dubai and cover all the significant heritage sites.

Highlights: (1) Heritage & Diving Village (2) House of Sheikh Obaid bin Thani (3) House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum (4) Al Shindagah Fort (5) Bait Al Wakeel Restaurant (6) Textile Souk (7) Grand Mosque (8) Dubai Museum/Al Fahidi Fort (9) Al Bastakiya To get started on this amazing journey, head down to the mouth of creek and start making your way up alongside of it. The first attraction you will encounter is the Heritage & Diving Village. Here you will find exhibits and demonstrations of traditional practices and crafts in a setting that reflects the maritime culture of the emirate.

As you make your way further up the creek, and past a stretch of restaurant and cafes, you will arrive at the House of Sheikh Obaid bin Thani and the House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. These two buildings are of great significance to the history of Dubai as they used to be the living quarters of the emirate’s leaders before they were turned to museums that showcase items and photographs of Dubai’s days of yore.

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions From the Eastern Wall of the fort turn left towards Al Fahidi roundabout to get to the last destination on in this tour, Al Bastakiya. This is one of the oldest residential areas in the city of Dubai. After the restoration of the locality's old buildings and cultural flavour in 2005, Al Bastakiya became a destination for tourists and those interested in learning about the history of Dubai, and what once used to be a small town for Persian merchants and fishermen, is now a quarter abundant with art galleries and traditional restaurants.

Be sure to drop by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding. Located in a traditional wind tower house in the heart of Al Bastakiya, the centre offers information about the UAE, cultural activities and tours and meals with local flair

Old buildings and narrow streets in Deira

Heritage Village

Cultural Meals At Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Breakfast (AED 70 per person) Every Monday & Wednesday at 10:00am Lunch (AED 80 per person) Every Sunday & Tuesday at 1:00pm

Dinner (AED 95 per person) Every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm

Brunch (AED 85 per person) Every Saturday at 10:30am

Tours

Further up the pathway and you will see on old watchtower made of stone standing to your right. This is Al Shindagha Fort, responsible for the safety of the people in the early days. Turning away from the fort and back to the creek will lead you to Bait Al Wakeel. Overlooking the water, this building was built in 1934 to be the first office building in Dubai. Bait Al Wakeel has been redesigned as a heritage showcase restaurant. Right outside the restaurant, the bustling Textiles Souk awaits, with its colourful storefronts and chatty shop owners. Make your way through the Souk until you pop out in front of the Grand Mosque. This mosque with its 54 domes is a dominant edifice in the old city. It was rebuilt in 1998, to resemble in style its original architecture of 1900.

A very short distance from the mosque is Dubai Museum, formerly known as Al Fahidi Fort. Built in 1787 of coral rock and mortar, Al Fahidi Fort, which once guarded the town, still depicts those days with two cannons at the main gate and galleries that recreate some historic scenes on the inside.

Tour includes a walk through the historic district and a cultural discovery Q&A session.

Guests will be treated to Arabic tea, coffee and dates.

Heritage Tour (AED 65 per person) Every Saturday from 9am to 10:30am and every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30am to 12:00pm.

Walking Tour (AED 50 per person) Sunday through Thursday from 9:00am 10:00am.

Advance booking is required (Tel: +971 4 353 6666)

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SEE THE BEAUTY of Abu Dhabi (Approx. 5 hours)

Qasr Al Hosn

Abu Dhabi is known for its beauty and greenery which is manifested around its Corniche Road that stretches along a manicured waterfront.

Highlights: (1) Ittihad Square (2) Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation (3) Qasr Al Hosn (4) Family Park (5) The Corniche Road (6) Ettihad Towers (7) Emirates Palace (8) Heritage Village Start your tour from Al Ittihad Square on Thani Road. The square presents a photographic opportunity with four oversized symbols of the Emirati culture and identity: cannon, coffee pot, makabbah, and mabaakhur. Once you are done snapping some photos, head in the direction the cannon in the square points to. Before your reach the second intersection of streets, turn to your right to see Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation. This is a centre of art and learning that hosts a variety of events, including art exhibits, lectures, concerts and art workshops throughout the year. The building of the centre has typical Islamic characteristics: arched columns, elaborate courtyards and beautifully carved doorways.

Located towards the rear of the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation is Qasr Al Hosn Fort. The grounds of this pure white fort are the birthplace of the first watchtower built in the emirate in the 1760s. The fort remains a great example of the city's heritage and identity. After visiting the fort, proceed towards the Corniche Road via 5th Road to reach at Family Park with its fountains, ponds and lush gardens. You might want to stretch or lie down over the grass for a few you minutes as you still have a lot road to cover on this tour.

Pick up your walk at Abu Dhabi Corniche. This waterfront boulevard is a favourite stroll spot for visitors and residents alike. You should be able to see Emirates Palace from here. Walk towards it until you reach its grand gate. Opposite to the gate stands a cluster of five breath-taking towers known as Ettihad Towers. Together, these towers constitute an exclusive address for shopping, dining and entertainment.

Situated on level 74 of Tower 2 Etihad Towers, the Observation Deck is the highest vantage point of Abu Dhabi. It offers splendid views of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, and magnificent cityscape. Once you’ve marvelled the beauty of the city from above, head back down to marvel the beauty of its most luxurious hotel, Emirates Place.

See that road that stretches ahead into the water? That’s where you need to head to get to the Heritage Village, which provides an interesting glimpse into the emirate’s past. At the end of the road, you will come to a crossroad, keep right to reach your destination. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by craftsmen and women demonstrating traditional skills in a traditional setting.

Emirates Palace

The Corniche Road

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Eye of the Emirates

Al Noor Mosque

ENJOY THE SERENITY of Shajrah (Approx. 3 hours)

The emirate of Shajrah is recognized for its culture and serenity. And although it does not enjoy the fame of its neighbouring Dubai, there’s whole lot of fascinating places to visit in this beautiful emirate.

Highlights: (1) Eye of the Emirates (2) Al Qasba (3) Al Majaz Island (4) Al Majaz Waterfront (5) Heritage Café (6) Al Noor Mosque (7) Buhairah Corniche Park (8) Blue Souk Blue Souk

From Al Khan Lagoon, start your walking tour at the mouth of Al Qasba canal which connects Al Khan Lagoon with the other lagoon in Sharjah, Khalid Lagoon. Standing on one of the banks of the canal is the 60-metre tall Eye of the Emirates. This is the most visible landmark in Al Qasba, and one of the largest observation wheels in the region. Step aboard one of the air-conditioned cabins to be steadily carried upwards. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the surrounding landscape all the way along the Gulf coast.

Once your joyride is over, continue walking up the Al Qasba Canal lined with shops, restaurants and kiosks. Here you can also enjoy a leisurely abra cruise in the lagoon. Once you have reached the other end of the canal, which opens to Khalid Lagoon, you will have to make your way across to the other bank of the canal by crossing the bridge connecting the canal banks.

Coming down the bridge, you will see Al Majaz Waterfront as you loop around Khalid Lagoon. Here there is fun for the whole family with a splash park and mini golf along with a great selection of restaurants and cafés overlooking the Sharjah Fountain. Sending jets of water soaring 100 metres high in the air, The Sharjah Fountain is one of the biggest fountains in the Gulf region. Installed in the late 70s, the fountain has become an iconic attraction in Sharjah and continues to be a fascinating sight for visitors. In addition to that, there are cybernetic fountains that combine with lasers,

light, video, audio and movement to create a true spectacle.

Continuing along the lagoon will lead you to a small café known as Heritage Café. A few steps from the Heritage Café lies Al Noor Mosque which has marvellous architecture and is the only mosque in Sharjah to open its doors to non-Muslim visitors so that they may learn about the UAE’s culture and religion. Past the mosque you will come along a vast green area that looks like a palm-tree farm. Known as Buhairah Corniche Park, this is the perfect place for a picnic or to cool down under the shade of palm trees.

Walking further out along the lagoon, you will pass by Holiday International Hotel and Marbella Resort. From here you will be able to see the iconic Blue Souk, also known as the Central Market, situated up ahead. Upon reaching the fully air-conditioned souk, you will find that it houses about 600 small yet charming shops selling traditional arts and crafts, jewellery, antiques, rugs, textiles and other goods.

The souk comprises two buildings – one of which is dominated by gold and jewellery merchants – that are connected together through suspended pedestrian crossings. If you are here to shop, then haggling is the name of the game.

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions

Without a Fuss With a seemingly infinite collection of tourist attractions, and bucket list boxes to tick, conquering the sightseeing aspect in the big city is a mammoth task. But worry not as we know of a fun and time-friendly way to take in all the sights and sounds of the city without the hassle.

They’re big, burgundy-coloured, and topless. And if you’ve spent some time in Dubai, then you’ve probably seen them rolling around the city. We are talking, of course, about the iconic open-air busses of Big Bus Tours.

Packed with sites and information, Big Bus tours are more than just bus rides. The buses traverse the city centre and beyond, both orienting first-time visitors and re-introducing residents to most-loved highlights. So whether you live here or you’re just visiting for holiday, Big Bus Tours offer a fun and a hassle-free way to get to know the city.

What’s really cool about touring the city with Big Bus Tours is the flexibility they offer. Riders are free to hop on or off at each stopping point to explore attractions at their own pace. Depending on the route, buses arrive at each stop every 20 to 30 minutes, so once you’ve taken in the view from the top of Burj Khalifa, had your fill of the beautiful seashells of Jumeirah Beach or traipsed through all the grandeur of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (available to stop at on the Big Bus Abu Dhabi itinerary), you can simply hop on again and carry on to your next destinations.

No matter where you come from, Big Bus Tours

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Issue 2015 probably speaks your language. The on-board commentary – available in 10 different languages – and expert tour-guides will tell you all you need to know about the landmarks you are viewing as you enjoy the sights either from the airconditioned shuttle or from the freedom of the open-air deck.

Your Big Bus ticket combines the choice of different routes enabling you to tailor your day to your interests and comes with free inclusions such as a Dhow River Cruise and Dubai Museum pass. Available in 24 and 48 hours validity periods, your ticket entitles you to unlimited rides between stops along the route and complimentary water, which the tour operators are kind enough to offer.

For those after Dubai evening fun, there’s also a short night-time loop through the city with its sparkling skyline. You can start the Night Tour from either of the five locations: Deira City Centre at 7:15pm, Burjuman at 7:15pm, Dubai Mall at 7:30pm, Mall of the Emirates at 7:45pm or Souk Madinat at 8:00pm.

Daily Big Bus Tours run from 9:00am 7:30pm, and are currently available in the Middle East in the UAE: Abu Dhabi and Dubai; and Oman: Muscat.

They’re big, burgundy-coloured, and topless. And if you’ve spent some time in Dubai, then you’ve probably seen them rolling around the city. We are talking, of course, about the iconic open-air busses of Big Bus Tours.

Packed with sites and information, Big Bus tours are more than just bus rides. The buses traverse the city centre and beyond, both orienting first-time visitors and re-introducing residents to most-loved highlights. So whether you live here or you’re just visiting for holiday, Big Bus Tours offer a fun and a hassle-free way to get to know the city.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.bigbustours.com or at any Big Bus sales point.

For information call 800 BIG BUS (800 244 287)

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Tales of the City Dubai thrives on newness and bigness, but the flashy metropolis you see today had a rather simple outset…

Between 1971 and 2012, Dubai went through a period of dramatic change during which foreign urban planners were flown in to deal with the rapidly growing city. One of those experts who came to Dubai in 1971 to work on Port Rashid was Len Chapman from the UK. Without even realising it, Len documented Dubai’s growth and transformation through photos he occasionally took, capturing everything from the cityscape to portraits and community celebrations. The images can be viewed on his blog - www.dubaiasitusedtobe.com - where he also narrates stories that take you back as far as 45 years to an exciting period in Dubai’s history; a time that shaped how Dubai looks today.

Len Chapman Dubai Resident 1971-2003

May we start with us some brief biographical information?

Tell us a little about yourself, how you came to Dubai and your background interest in photography.

I trained as a Marine Engineer and spent my early life sailing around the world as an Engineer Officer on Ocean Liners. By 1967 I was married with a young family and employed as Port Engineer in Mina Sulman, Bahrain. Around 1970 I was offered the position of Port Engineer at a new Port to be built in Dubai – Port Rashid. I knew little about Dubai but the opportunity to be involved in a brand new Port was too good to miss. So I accepted!

where a car was waiting to take us to the newly opened Ambassador Hotel. On the way to the hotel I began having doubts. After Bahrain, Dubai seemed to be nothing but sand, sand and more sand with few roads and just as few buildings – it felt like going back in time.

Next day we started to find our way around Dubai. It soon became clear Dubai offered two things that Bahrain did not – long pristine beaches and Dubai Creek.

Finding food was a problem. 1971 Dubai had no supermarkets – just a few small local stores that sold groceries. All the food they had on offer was frozen, tinned, dried or pickled. No fresh milk, eggs or meat. Fresh bread was available from bakery trucks which drove out around the town each evening and parked on open sand areas. Fresh fish could be bought at the local fish markets but you had to be there early morning. Saving grace was the abundant fresh fruit and vegetables in the local markets – some grown locally but mostly imported from neighbouring countries.

Coming from the small islands of Bahrain and its population approaching 2 million, Dubai seemed almost empty with its 1971 population of barely 250,000. But its people were friendly, welcoming and had a good sense of humour.

Could you share with us a panoramic description of the Dubai you first set foot in?

On March 31st 1971 we flew by Gulf Aviation from Bahrain to Dubai via Doha and Abu Dhabi, a journey of a couple of hours back then. Landing at Dubai Airport was something of a shock. Bahrain had a modern Airport by 1970s standards whereas Dubai Airport Terminal was a very small building surrounded by desert. We were cleared through Customs and Immigration by two Officials at a wooden desk on the tarmac, collected our baggage then out of the building to

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Issue 2015 Restored Bastakia 2004

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Tourist | Tours & Attractions Old Dubai Wharves Shindagha 1982

after the signing. Meeting Sheikh Rashid prior to his opening Port Rashid was a privilege you don’t forget! Watching the launch of one of Dubai’s unique Kazan’s (underwater oil storage tanks) was a unique and rare memory. Standing shoulder to shoulder with the Queen of England (well- almost – and by accident) as she boarded the Royal Yacht Britannia was a memory I and several Port Workers share. We were putting the Yacht’s gangway in place when the Queen arrived ahead of time, waited until we finished then walked up the gangway.

On the other hand memories of the Gulf Wars and various hijackings at Dubai Airport are less fondly remembered.

Being woken in the early hours of the morning by cargo ship being attacked with rocket propelled grenades off Jumeirah Beach or having a friend on a plane hijacked at Dubai Airport I’d rather not remember. But that was long ago.

Visiting the Burj Al Arab shortly after it opened is an indelible “modern” memory as was arriving back in Dubai after annual leave to find the road system to my home had completely changed and I had to ask directions!

There was a general atmosphere of optimism – everyone felt the recent discovery of oil and Sheikh Rashid’s leadership was going to lead to change.

Do you think there are still any traces left today from the city’s lifestyle back then?

Many of modern Dubai’s sporting events have their origin in Dubai’s 1970s and 80s lifestyles. Soccer, golf, rugby, motorsports, cycling, squash, tennis were introduced by Expatriates in 1970s and 80s then supported and adopted by Dubai to become major international events. But generally the old Dubai lifestyle has faded away naturally with time for expatriates and Dubai’s Emiratis.

What figures or institutions would you say have played an important part in the way Dubai has changed?

Dubai’s oil revenues provided the means to develop its business and trade. Even today when the focus is on Dubai’s rapid development of its infrastructure, trade and business remains the underlying base of Dubai’s wealth. Undoubtedly Dubai’s Late Ruler Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum was the key figure in establishing Dubai as an international Trade and Business Centre. Successive Rulers have built on Sheikh Rashid’s foundations. Sheikh Ahmed and Emirates Airlines played an important role both in facilitating Tourism into Dubai and establishing Dubai as an international Transit Hub. There were a number of Advisors to Sheikh Rashid whose expertise was critical to Dubai’s development in key areas of infrastructure development, finance and security.

Latterly, of course, Sheikh Mohammed has led Dubai’s infrastructure development and establishing the new Dubai.

What are your views on present Dubai, are you fonder of it than the olden-day Dubai?

Is new Dubai better than the old? My answer is always “They are different”. New Dubai delivers what old Dubai could not in terms of facilities, services and infrastructure particularly in the areas of health and education. And the other hand old Dubai provided a lifestyle with fewer restrictions, more personal freedoms, a community spirit and purpose and more “greenfield” opportunities than would be possible in new Dubai given its size and complexity.

Do you think the years you lived in Dubai gave you a perspective on the development here, in that you could come back having been away for a while and see unbelievable changes?

I guess the question is how rapid was the evolution of Dubai compared to other cities you know of?

Living in Dubai you always expected the unexpected!

I can’t think of any other city that has changed at the rate Dubai has, particularly in the past ten years. Dubai’s development was relatively gradual between 1971 and 2003. Af-

What are some moments of the city’s history that have left an imprint in your memory?

Over the thirty years I spent in Dubai, there were many memorable events – some remembered more fondly than others! Ceremony to establish the UAE on 2nd December 1971 took place just minutes from where I lived so I was able to stand outside the Beach Palace where the signing took place and watch Sheikh Rashid and Sheikh Zayed leave

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Issue 2015 Masafi 1980

Traditional Desert Camel Race 1974

Al Fahidi Street 1971 Jumeirah Beach Road 1968

ter 2003 Dubai’s development accelerated rapidly based on Tourism and Property development. The Global Financial Crisis brought that rapid growth to an end but Dubai is now recovering and starting to grow again.

What would you say to someone visiting Dubai today for the first time?

First thing is to forget what you have been told about Dubai – good or bad – form your own opinion from what you see and experience.

Experience and enjoy all the new things Dubai offers but also seek out old Dubai. My recommendations are: 1. Visit Al Fahidi Fort Museum to see Dubai as it used to be.

2. Walk around Dubai Souks on Deiraside – Materials Souk, Spice Souk and Gold Souk.

3. Take a trip on Dubai Creek on an Abra.

4. Enjoy lunch or dinner at Bait Al Wakheel (Dubai’s first office building) at a table overlooking Dubai Creek.

5. Walk around Bastakia, investigate the cafes and art galleries, try and visualise how Bastakia must have been when it was home to Dubai’s Persian Traders and its alleyways filled with people.

Sheikh Rashid's Majlis 1980

All images are courtesy of Len Chapman

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DSF at A glance How to make the most of Dubai Shopping Festival January is a time of year that Dubai puts on its festive dress for the grand celebrations of Dubai Shopping Festival; a month-long fiesta of fabulous shopping, mega raffles and an eclectic line-up of events. To create a vibrant ambience and give the perfect welcome to tourists arriving in Dubai for DSF, several locations including key streets, parks, tunnels and walkways are decorated with lights that sparkle with the DSF spirit.

Here are some of the highlights that are sure to leave you with memorable moments to take back home.

Street Carnivals

Shopping Sprees

Locations such as Al Seef Street and Al Rigga Street, as well as The Promenade at Dubai Festival City play host to exciting carnivals that celebrate the spirit of Dubai Shopping Festival. Entertainment includes folk dancing, marching bands, parades and circus acts that can be found delighting the crowds lining the streets.

With hot deals from over 6,000 retail outlets at 70 malls, DSF is the best time to get your hands on that Gucci, Prada or Versace you’ve been eyeing. The souks of Dubai are also great places to go shopping during the DSF with branded jewellery, carpets, art and crafts, and perfumes at discounted prices.

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Issue 2015 Adding to the carnival atmosphere, the streets will be packed with stalls selling all kinds of goodies from traditional cuisines to candy and popcorn. Gifts, trinkets and souvenirs can also be had.

Attractive Prizes

Shoppers can also look forward to an opportunity to win several daily and weekly prizes from participating shopping malls and outlets. Prizes include luxury cars, gold and cash that can be won through raffle draws which anyone can participate in by shopping in Dubai. Just don’t forget to fillout the coupons and drop them in the raffle box!

Children Shows

DSF is special treat for the entire family! While parents make the most of the DSF offers at the shopping malls, the children too can relish DSF activities and events. A visit to Children City at Dubai Creek Park promises a fun-packed time for the little ones.

Fashion Shows

Fashion also rises to new heights during DSF: last year DSF Vertical Catwalk added another feather in Dubai’s record cap of firsts, by being the first-ever vertical catwalk to be performed on the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. So be sure check out the striking line-up of fashion events. Who knows? You might be in for a world’s first!

Depending on the genre, events take place at different location around the city. Check DSF’s website (www.mydsf.ae) for the full line-up and details of events.

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Fireworks

Perhaps one of the most recognisable features of Dubai Shopping Festival is its magnificent firework displays. Starting with the spectacular show of fireworks on the opening night of Dubai Shopping Festival, each night will feature impressive fireworks shows lighting up the early evening sky. Fireworks usually start at 8pm throughout many locations, including Dubai Creek, Downtown Dubai and Festival City.

Global Village

Brining the world together, The Global Village is another major attraction during DSF for those who want to explore the cultural diversity of the globe in one place.

With a pavilion from every country, the global village offers you a unique chance to shop the products, meet the people and eat the foods of different counties from every corner of the globe.

Cultural & Heritage Activities

Throughout Dubai Shopping Festival, the Heritage Village hosts a fascinating schedule of exhibitions, such as traditional cookery, shipbuilding and desert living skills, showing you how Dubai’s residents lived, while a variety of stallholders offer you the chance to take home some souvenirs. Located in the old Shindagha area of Bur Dubai, Heritage Village recreates the beginnings of Dubai and gives you a glimpse of its past.

Events & Entertainment Shows

DSF’s calendar of events is always packed with an extensive line-up of world-class events, be it music concerts, theatrical shows or musicals for the kids.

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COOL PLACES Experience Frosty Fun and Frolic

EVEN WITH ITS SIZZLING SUMMER TEMPERATURES, DUBAI IS A PLACE WHERE YOU WILL FIND SNOW. FROM INDOOR SNOW-SKIING TO SKATING ON ICE AND LOUNGING AT SUB-ZERO TEMPERATURES, THE CITY IS A WINTER WONDERLAND. SO CROSS-OUT THAT SKI HOLIDAY OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST AND HEAD TO ONE OF DUBAI’S COOLEST PLACES.

SKI DUBAI Test your skills at the world's first indoor ski resort.

Here, skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels will enjoy skiing on real snow, while kids and parents alike will have fun in the largest indoor snow park in the world. The Snow Park features Twin Track Bobsled runs, a Snow Cavern, Tobogganing hills and more. You don't have to worry about ski clothing or equipment. Ski Dubai has thought of it all and offers guests the use of thermal clothing, ski and snowboard equipment. www.skidxb.com +971 4 409 4090

DUBAI ICE RINK Set your spirit free at Dubai's sensational Olympic-size ice rink. From those looking to experience ice skating for the first time to those keen to master their skills, Dubai Ice Rink is a destination of endless fun for everyone. Whether you want to learn skating, perfect your technique, play ice hockey, socialise with friends or just have a great time, this spectacular venue is the coolest place to hang out, any time of the year. www.dubaiicerink.com +971 4 448 5111

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Chillout Lounge Chill Out is Dubai's first and only ice lounge. Here you can enjoy a hot beverage in sub-zero temperature! But not to worry, you’ll be given thermal clothing before stepping into the frozen sanctum. Inside the lounge, everything is made entirely of carved ice, including the cocktail glasses. Whether on a date or just chilling out with friends, at Chillout, you have a reason to get closer! www.chilloutindubai.com 800 Chillout (24455688)

KEMPINSKI HOTEL SKI CHALETS Pull back the curtains and view the wintry peaks of Ski Dubai at one of the 15 Ski Chalets at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. The Ski Chalets will make you feel as if you have travelled to a mountain ski lodge by replicating the spirit of a winter retreat, complete with fireplace and views of the amazing ski slopes of Ski Dubai. www.kempinski.com +971 4 341 0000

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Splish Splash Summer doesn't have to be so hot when you have waterparks to splash in all season long

On the quest to beat the summer’s heat, watery joys spring to mind.

But while the beach is too hot and there isn’t much excitement in a temperature-controlled pool, the only resort left is waterparks… and the UAE, most certainly, doesn’t lack of that. Some of the waterparks are different than others, but the one thing they all have in common is amazing fun! From monster slides to lazy rivers, waterparks are for the whole family – and those who prefer something less salty than the sea.

Yas Waterworld Situated next door to Ferrari World on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld has more rides, slides and attraction than any other waterpark in the Middle East. The waterpark 43 rides, slides and attractions – four of which have never seen before in a waterpark – guarantee to thrill all visitors including adrenaline junkies! Yas Waterworld’s theme is based on a legend that represents local Emirati culture and heritage. Building on the legend, the park will have a unique pearl diving attraction that showcases the role pearl diving played in the UAE’s rich history. www.yaswaterworld.com +971 2 414 2000

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Aquaventure Sitting in the backyard of the five-star Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure is one of the best waterparks in the Middle East. The fun-filled waterpark features several attractions for all ages. Experience adrenaline-pumping waterslides that catapult you through sharkfilled lagoons, relax on a beach surrounded by lush tropical landscapes, or swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Bay. If you combine your visit with a Dolphin Experience, entrance to Aquaventure will be included in the cost. www.atlantisthepalm.com +971 4 426 0000

Wild Wadi Standing in the shade of the stunning Burj Al Arab hotel, Wild Wadi offers 30 rides and attractions for all the family. Wild Wadi is themed around the tale of Juha, a known character from the Arabian folklore. Relax and enjoy the high waves of Flood River and long, lazy river of Juha's Journey. The little ones will love the kids activities at Wild Wadi which include racing slides and water guns! www.wildwadi.com +971 4 348 4444

Wadi Adventure Located in Al Ain, Wadi Adventure is not your average waterpark; it has no waterslides and its rivers are not at all “slow.� Instead, Wadi Adventure features the first man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility in the Middle East. The three world class whitewater rafting and kayaking runs measure up to 1,133 m in length when combined, while the surf pool is capable of making 3.3 m high waves every 90 seconds. Moreover, the park has a rope course, climbing wall and a zip line in addition to an adult and toddlers swimming pool, plenty of food and beverage outlets and retail outlets to provide all you may need for the day. www.wadiadventure.ae +971 3 781 8422

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Adventures of Atlantis Whether you want to dip your toes in the water, shoot down daredevil slides, or even make friends with dolphins, Atlantis has more than meets the eye when it comes to watery adventures. We take a look at some of the tantalizing attractions on offer.

Aquaventure Waterpark

scream through the planet’s largest slide or race down the world’s first dual slide within a slide. Fly high on the longest zip line circuit in the Middle East. Or just relax on our private beach surrounded by lush tropical landscapes. Plus younger children will love the Splashers play area designed just for them. Whether you’re a hotel guest or visiting for the day, Spectacular rides and thrilling slides make Aquaventure Waterpark the most exciting day out in Dubai.

The World’s Biggest Waterslide, awe-inspiring water slides, a record breaking zip line circuit and non-stop water play are the signature elements of Aquaventure Waterpark, the magnificent waterscape at Atlantis, The Palm. Here you can enjoy the thrill of jumping into the No. 1 water park in the Middle East and Europe, over flowing with 17 fun-filled hectares for all ages. Experience adrenaline pumping waterslides that catapult you through shark filled lagoons,

Sea Lion Point

Join us for an extraordinary encounter at Sea Lion Point. Visitors to Sea Lion Point can get up close and personal with one of the foot-flapping mammals and leave with a smile on their face. Choose to stay dry with our Sea Lion Photo Fun and enjoy a cuddle or a kiss with one of the world’s most charming marine animals, plus you will receive a free souvenir photograph to remember your incredible experience or wade into waist-high water for an up-close interaction. You’ll enjoy whiskery kisses, cuddles and one-on-one time whilst learning what makes these marine mammals so unique. Don’t miss out on the fun!

Dolphin Bay

Dolphin Bay in Atlantis is one of the most sophisticated dolphin habitats in the world. Here you have the opportunity to choose from a variety of amazing dolphin experiences suitable for all ages and swimming abilities.

Interactions range from standing in shallow water to swim-

Aquaventure Waterpark

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Sea Lion Point

ming or scuba diving alongside these charismatic creatures. Whether you’re a hotel guest or visiting for the day, Dolphin Bay in Dubai offers an unforgettable experience.

Marine Adventures

Upgrade your Atlantis experience with one of the up close marine animal adventures and help Atlantis’ ‘Marine Mammal Experts’ feed eels, giant groupers or even piranhas in one of the Behind The Scenes Tours.

For those seeking an adventure, Shark Lagoon at Aquaventure Waterpark is a place for real dare-devil activities. Here you can surround yourself with sharks, fish and rays. Or if you are a certified scuba diver, take the plunge into the largest open air aquarium in the Middle East. Throughout all any of these programmes, you will learn more about these interesting species, plus discover what goes into caring for 65,000 marine animals.

Atlantis Dive Centre

Scuba enthusiasts will find everything they need for an amazing day’s diving at Atlantis Dive Centre. The centre programs for everyone, from the beginner wanting to experience diving for the first time to the expert looking to take a specialty dive course or dive one of the UAE’s fascinating shipwrecks.

Diving in the Ambassador Lagoon

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Smoking shisha is one of the most popular mellow-outs in the UAE. It represents the nexus of a luxuriant experience and a social interaction rather than a harmful habit – probably due to the graceful pipes and creative mouthwatering tobacco blends that tempt even the most ’au fait’ towards it.

To enter the tranquillity and reflection of shisha smoking, shisha should be enjoyed on a night out with friends, post dinner or while taking in the views of the beautiful sunset. Once you have made your flavoured tobacco selection, it’s time puff away the pleasant smoke infusing your senses and lingering through the air.

But while shisha smoking is enjoyable and relaxing, just like any other kind of smoking, it has harmful side effects. The UAE is in the process of implementing health awareness campaigns on the smoking of shisha, and fewer lounges and cafes are now permitted to serve it. So if you are going to indulge in this ‘social smoking’, try and limit it to occasions like sweetening a conversation, a quiet contemplation or a game of dominoes. After all, it's the experience and not the smoking that counts.

Bubble Bubble Unwind to the uniquely relaxed mood of shisha

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Al Hadiqa Al Hadiqa Shisha Lounge provides the perfect venue for those who like to enjoy their evening shisha al fresco style.

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort +971 4 399 5533

The Courtyard Here you can enjoy your favourite flavours of shisha under the night sky and twinkling Arabic lanterns at the heart Downtown Dubai.

Al Manzil Downtown Dubai +971 4 428 5888

QD’s Apart from the fantastic shisha, QD’s offers a spectacular setting on the banks of the Dubai creek.

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club +971 4 295 600

Image Courtesy Dubai Golf

Koubba Bar Take in the sweeping views of Madinat Jumeirah as the sun goes down at the lavish terrace this stylish bar.

Al Qasr Hotel +971 4 366 6730 Image credit: Jumeirah.com

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ACTIVE in the UAE

Most people visit the UAE to enjoy the sunshine, skyline and shopping malls the country is famous for, but if you are an active soul that enjoys waking up at the crack of dawn to do something different, then we invite you to try your hand at some of the more cultural sports the Emirates boasts.

Horse Riding The UAE has a tradition of horse riding, probably due to the fact that nothing compares to watching the sunset over the desert dunes from the saddle of horse. If you fancy taking the reins, here are a couple places where you can do that.

Hoofbeatz (www.hoofbeatz.com) offers a range of unique equestrian-themed activities that guarantee everyone including the horse has a pleasant experience.

The Emirates Equestrian Centre (www.‌emiratesequestriancentre.com) is the only fully approved British Horse Society riding and training centre in the Middle East. The centre offers group and private lessons for adults and children as well as Pony Rides for the little ones.

Whether you’re a first time rider, an aspiring polo player, a serious equestrian sports competitor, or simply looking for a pastime, you’ll find the right horse-riding experience for you at Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club (www.‌poloclubdubai.com).

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Camel Riding While finding an equestrian centre for a horse ride is easy, finding a camel to ride is not, unless you go on a desert safari or stay at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa (www.‌meydanhotels.com/‌babalshams) where all hotel guests receive a complimentary camel ride during sunset.

Image credit: Banyan Tree Al Wadi

Falconry Falconry has long been an integral part of the Bedouin life in the UAE. Today, falconry is practiced purely as a sport. If you want get up close and personal with the birds, Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (www.‌falconhospital.‌com) offers a unique tour that will provide you with a deep insight into the world of falcons, the history of falconry as well as the life of falcons in modern times. For a more interactive experience with the majestic birds Royal Shaheen (www.royalshaheen.ae) offers different packages where you can experience a falcon fly right onto your gloved fist or simply watch the power, grace and beauty of a falcon in flight through an educational display. To book a session, call +971 4 435 6550

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Archery For all the Robin Hoods out there, archery is another activity to enjoy while in the UAE. If you want to try your aim and test your own falcon eye, then head down to one of the shooting clubs and fire away until you get that bull’s eye!

Located near the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa, the Jebel Ali Shooting Club (+971 4 883 6555) is the perfect environment for both experienced archers and beginners to improve their accuracy. The club also offers pistol, skeet and trap shooting as well as laser-shooting simulator. The floodlit facility also provides tuition at its shooting academy.

At Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club (www.golfandshootingshj.com), you can enjoy target archery in an indoor range, where you shoot at targets with modern equipment and a sight on your bow. You can also try your hand at rifle and pistol shooting. The club runs several of its own competitions that are held throughout the year, and are a mixture of serious and fun shoots.

If you can’t get enough of arrows and bows, many resorts across the UAE have supervised archery ranges, open to guests and visitors. These resorts include Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara (www.qasralsarab.anantara.com), Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa (www.meydanhotels.com/babalshams), Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa (www.al-maha.com) and Al Forsan International Sports Resort (www.alforsan.com)

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Motorsports Petrolheads will not run out of fuel in UAE, home to two impressive motor-racing circuits, where you can not only watch motor-racing action and smell the rubber burning, but also take the steering wheel!

More than just one of the world’s most advanced Grand Prix venues, Yas Marina Circuit (www.‌yasmarinacircuit.com) is inspired by the culture and values of the United Arab Emirates and its capital, Abu Dhabi. Here, you can put your foot down and feel like a champion. From taking the famous Formula Yas 3000’s for a spin to drifting, drag racing and kids’ first driving lessons, Yas Marina Circuit Driver Experiences are about putting you in control as you make your own phenomenal memories.

At Dubai Autodrome (www.dubaiautodrome.com), strap yourself in the Single Seater or the Audi R8 and test your skills around the tack. For group fun, get the jump on your mates racing a kart on the 1.2km international-standard circuit at the Kartdrome. The track experiences combine classroom and behindthe-wheel instruction and are designed to give in-depth exposure to the latest in safety and race driving techniques.

If you think racing is extreme, then try doing it on the dirt track! Al Forsan (www.alforsan.com) has a choice of machines for the willing off-roader to try out. The fully floodlit off-road circuit is designed to allow two vehicles to safely race head to head, without the risk of collision. The surface has been treated with an eco-friendly dustless application that allows fast paced action without the dust and loss of vision.

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Just A Swing Away Golf in the UAE

GOLF AFICIONADOS AROUND THE WORLD HAVE LONG BEEN AWARE OF THE DELIGHTS THE UAE HAS TO OFFER. FROM LEGENDARY TO SERENE AND OFF THE BEATEN PATH, THERE ARE OVER A DOZEN OF BEAUTIFULLY LOCATED GOLF COURSES WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS AND AWARD-WINNING DESIGNS ACROSS THE EMIRATES.

Emirates Golf Club Image Courtesy Dubai Golf

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Intercontinental Dubai Festival City

Meydan Hotel

Park Hyatt

Where to stay and play

clubhouse which is managed by the five-star hotel brand – The Address Hotels & Resorts features 21 five-star hotel rooms, three international restaurants, a fitness centre and a Spa.

If you're looking for luxurious resort accommodation after your round of golf, then make sure to check-into one of the hotels and resorts with direct golf course access.

DUBAI

JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort

Intercontinental Dubai Festival City: Al Badia Golf Club Located at Dubai Festival City, InterContinental Hotel is minutes away from the 18-hole championship course at Al Badia Golf Club, also managed by Intercontinental Hotels Group. Designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones II, the course features abundant water, rivers of sand and plants indigenous to the Arabian Gulf. The prestigious course can be played from the maximum 7,303 yards for championship players, down to 5,398 yards for newer players.

The Address Montgomerie: The Montgomerie The Address Montgomerie Dubai boasts a 7,396-yard championship golf course designed by Colin Montgomerie, in association with Desmond Muirhead. The spectacular links-style course, managed by Troon Golf is consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the Middle East. The

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Abu Dhabi Golf Club

Meydan Hotel: The Track Meydan Golf Set along the magnificent Meydan racecourse, Meydan Hotel offers direct access to The Track Meydan Golf nearby. The Track golf course measures 7412 yards off the Black championship tees, but with four other varying tee boxes, it caters to every golfer. Renowned golf course architect Peter Harradine strategically placed each hole allowing the six natural lakes on the course to come into play on several approaches.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa

Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort

Set within the grounds of the resort’s 128 acres, the championship standard 9-hole par 36 golf is an exciting challenge for golfers of all abilities. The availability of 4 tees on each hole provides the opportunity to play either a 9 or 18-hole round. Golf carts, trolleys and clubs are available for hire, while balls, sporting attire and equipment can be purchased at the Pro Shop.

ABU DHABI The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa: Abu Dhabi Golf Club Located on the fringes of the Abu Dhabi Golf Club, home to the HSBC Golf Championship, the Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa is the ideal location for any golf enthusiast and professional alike. With all 172 guest rooms golf course facing, you are always guaranteed to enjoy an uplifting view and a rejuvenating stay.

Park Hyatt: Dubai Creek Golf Club Set in a prime location on the banks of the Dubai Creek and adjacent to the world-famous Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Park Hyatt Dubai provides the perfect haven for a golf escape. Capped by its iconic clubhouse building, the 18-hole, par 71 floodlit course provides a refreshingly different golfing experience. The club features a fitting centre and a Pro Shop that offers the latest in golfing accessories and equipment.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort - Saadiyat Beach Golf Club The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is located just across the captivating Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, which har-

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Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Image Courtesy Dubai Golf

nesses the stunning beauty of Saadiyat Island. Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, the 18-hole masterpiece golf club is the Arabian Gulf’s first and only ocean course with beach front holes on the iconic island.

Yas Links Abu Dhabi Challenge yourself at the championship Yas Links Abu Dhabi. Here, there is no shortage of variety when it comes to selecting your hotel near to Yas Links. Currently there are six hotels in close proximity to the course.

RAS AL KHAIMAH Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort Take in breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and the Hajjar Mountains as you tee off on the 18-hole championship golf course of the Hilton Al Hamra Golf & Beach Resort. Designed by Peter Harradine, the course offers an exciting challenge for guests of all ages and skill levels.

Yas Links Abu Dhabi

tares of land. The course has nine holes under floodlights (Holes 1-9 then 19-27) for night play.

Golf After Sunset

During the hot summer months, many golf enthusiasts in, and around the UAE, are inhibited from playing golf due to the sizzling temperatures. Visitors, on the other hand, much prefer to see the sights during the day and hit the fairways in the evening. Night golf has been nothing but a fantasy in the mind of golfers up until recently. Today, you can avoid the crowds and the heat thanks to the floodlit courses that have become ever so popular in the Emirates. Whether you’re a serious golfer wanting to regularly play on a championship course, or you’re simply after a social nine-hole after work, you can now play golf well after sunset seven nights a week at one these courses.

Abu Dhabi City Golf Club Abu Dhabi City Golf Club is located in the Mushrif area in the heart of Abu Dhabi. The nine-hole, par 70 floodlit course is set in the middle of a racetrack, offering golfers an exciting set of challenges.

Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club As the only fully floodlit eighteen-hole course in Dubai, the Faldo course continues to light up the night sky enabling golfers to enjoy a full round of eighteen-hole championship golf in the heart of Dubai.

Dubai Creek Golf Club

Abu Dhabi Golf Club

For those looking to improve their short game or for just enjoy a round of social golf after sunset, the Par 3 course at Dubai Creek Golf Club is floodlit and is open daily from 7am- 10pm.

Fifteen minutes from the city centre and just ten minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi Golf Club features 27 Championship holes, over 162 hec-

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GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS

Faldo Night Golf at Emirates Golf Club

With the widespread of championship courses, the golf scene in the UAE has been gaining world acclaim. Dubai alone prides itself as the home of the Dubai Desert Classic and the DP World Tour Championship Race to Dubai – events that have enjoyed worldwide coverage and highlighted the regions achievement as a destination for golf. If you want to witness some of the best golfing action and watch the world’s best golfers battle it out on the greens, here are the events to look-out for:

Image Courtesy Dubai Golf

The Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Peter Harradine, the fully floodlit nine-hole golf course at Sharjah Golf & Shooting club, enables play well into the evening.

DP World Tour Championship Taking place on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates, the DP World Tour Championship Race to Dubai celebrates both the diversity and the shared passion for golf across the globe; a thrilling ending to a long season for the best Golfers on the European tour. www.europeantour.com

Tower Links Golf Club Tower Links Golf Club is a challenging 18 hole, par 72 golf course. The club possesses an outstanding range of facilities enabling golfers to improve their standard of play. The back nine holes and practice facilities are fully floodlit for night play.

Dubai Desert Classic Attracting the biggest names in golf, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic was The Omega Dubai Desert Classic is a PGA European Tour sanctioned event featuring a $2.5 million prize pool. It is held annually in January or February at the Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course. www.dubaidesertclassic.com

Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Image credit: Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship

Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Teeing off in 2006 and quickly becoming established as a favourite event for players and spectators alike, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship is recognised as one of the biggest events on the European Tour, regularly attracting some of golf’s most famous names. Since its inception by TCA Abu Dhabi, it has been staged at the sublime Abu Dhabi Golf Club as part of the Tour’s Gulf Swing. www.abudhabigolfchampionship.com

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Life is a Beach Your Guide to the Best Public Beaches in the UAE Surrounded by the sea from every direction, the UAE offers safe, white sandy beaches with clear blue waters and gently shelving shores; the perfect way to spend day in the Emirates. The best time to go to the beach here is during the cooler months (October - March) when the temperatures are not overwhelmingly hot. If you enjoy water sports or simply like to ease out by the sea, here are the best public beaches to visit.

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The Beach at JBR

Jumeirah Open Beach

to partake in. A few shacks and trailers will keep you stockedup on snacks and refreshments.

Kite Beach is located behind Sunset Mall, Jumeirah Road, Dubai.

Kite Beach

3. Al Mamzar Beach Park 1. The Beach at JBR

Set on a lush small peninsula, just across from Sharjah, Al Mamazar Park offers access to five small sandy beaches, a swimming pool, barbecues, and other beach facilities. If you just want to relax, the park has pretty walkways and scenic gardens, the perfect way to spend a warm afternoon. Entrance fee is AED 5 per person and AED 20 if you want to drive your car through the park or to one of chalets located within, which are available for day hire. The Park is open daily 7am-11pm.

Jumeirah Park is located close to Sharjah in Al Mamzar Locality, Dubai.

Facing the stylish Jumeirah Beach Residence, this is the perfect beach for those who want to spend their time by the sea in style and comfort and lots of gourmet food.

The beach is stocked with well over sixty retail and food and beverage outlets and is the only beach in the UAE to feature an outdoor cinema.

The beach is parallel to The Walk at JBR, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai.

2. Kite Beach

4. Jumeirah Open Beach

This beach is has long been the favourite spot in Dubai for kitesurfers hence the name “Kite Beach”. Recently, this beach has become very popular among sun-loungers forcing real enthusiast of the sport to take their activity somewhere less crowded. There’s beach gym and numerous water sport activities such as, kayaking, paddle boarding and volleyball

This public beach has a lit running track perfect for afternoon jogs and cycling. There are showers and public toilets, and kiosks selling refreshments.

Jumeirah Open beach is situated between Rashid Docks and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, off Jumeirah Road.

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5. Umm Suqeim Beach

Umm Suqeim Beach

This beach is the closet public beach to the Iconic Burj Al Arab hotel. It is perfect for those who want to freely take close-up photos of the marvellous structure.

Located just before Jumeriah Beach Hotel on Jumeirah Road, Dubai.

6. Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach The beach is divided into three separate sections for families, singles and the general public. With lifeguards on site, entry to the family and singles sections is for a small fee (AED 10). However, entry to the public area is for free of charge. The beach has toilets and changing facilities as well as beach volleyball and children’s play areas.

This lengthy stretch of beach extends along the Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi Corniche Beach

8. Saadiyat Public Beach It is the first public beach on Saadiyat Island with a great location, multiple facilities and activities designed to suit trendy beachgoers. The beach is serviced

by BAKE, a beach-specialised operator that provides sun loungers, towels, beach umbrellas and water sports and activities.

Saadiyat Public Beach is located just past The Park Hyatt on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhbai.

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9. Al Bateen Overlooking Hudariyat Island and Hudariyat Bridge, on the west side of Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen beach offers amenities such as showers and changing rooms, toilets and children play areas.

The convenient location makes it easy to reach from all around, just follow Khaleej Al Arabi Street and make a turn on 19th Street towards Al Hudariyat Bridge, Abu Dhabi.

Getting to the beach is a bit of trek but the untouched beauty and the image inscribed on the hill across is absolutely worth the hike.

To get there, head north along Khorfakkan beach past the Oceanic Hotel until your reach the roundabout, where you’ll have to park the car and continue on-foot over the hill.

10. Heart Beach

This quite, pristine beach, sometimes referred to as “Heart Beach,” is tucked away between the hills in the town of Khorfakkan, located about 25km from Fujairah along the Gulf of Oman on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates.

Showers Sun loungers Toilets Lifeguard Changing rooms Restaurants / Cafeterias Non-motorised watersports

Heart Beach

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Beach Club Bonanza UAE's most glamorous beach clubs

As summer in the UAE heats up, so does the competition between beach hangouts.

Taking the lead in cleanliness, safety and facilities, beach clubs are the perfect places to chill out during the day, top up your tan and enjoy sun-kissed beats. With a raft of beach sports and activities, temperature-controlled swimming pools and a variety of eating and drinking options, you are guaranteed to have a sand-tastic time.

Blue Marlin Ibiza Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel and Resort, Ghantoot For beach bunnies looking for some action, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE is a stylish beach club where you can enjoy trendy cocktails and bites while dancing to the DJ beats and dipping into the cool waters of the bay. Open on Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 11pm.

Admission varies and reservation is required. +971 56 113 3400

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Royal Island Beach Club The World Islands, Dubai Located six kilometres off the coastline of Dubai, The Royal Island Beach Club is the first development to open its doors to the public on Dubai’s iconic World Islands. The Royal Island Beach Club offers a unique island experience and encompasses an international restaurant, a long beach, a swimming pool and chalets. Open every Thursday and Friday. Access to the island is AED475 per person including boat transfers, use of all facilities and an international buffet. +971 50 617 6507

Meydan Beach The Walk, JBR, Dubai If you fancy some real chill out time, then head to Meydan Beach. This beach club offers an exclusive and carefully tailored beach experience with a variety of fine dining options and luxurious spa and fitness facilities for the city’s high-rollers. Open daily from 10am to 7pm. Day pass is AED150 per person on weekdays, AED495 on Fridays (inclusive of AED250 to spend on food and beverage) and AED250 on Saturdays. +971 4 433 3777

Nasimi Beach Club Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai With a breathtaking view of the Atlantis Hotel, Nasimi Beach is one of Dubai’s most vibrant hotspots. Serving an a la carte menu Nasimi restaurant spills out onto a shoreline terrace, private cabanas, white sofas and day beds, while the twin bars lining the beach keep the crowd refreshed with creative and colourful cocktails. Open daily from 9am until sunset. Admission is free but use of sun lounger is AED150 on weekdays and AED200 on weekends. +971 55 200 4321

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Barasti Beach Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Overlooking the Arabian Sea, Barasti is an award winning beach venue full of fun and excitement. It is a place where the city’s beach-goers come out to play, eat or dance on the sand. Open Saturday to Wednesday: 11am - 1:30am, Thursday and Friday: 11am - 3am. Admission is free. +971 4 399 3333

RIVA Beach Club Shoreline Residences, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai RIVA Beach Club has its own stretch of private beach featuring more than 200 luxury sun loungers, all available on an à la carte basis for day hire. Guests can also enjoy a climate controlled pool, a fully licensed gazebo bar and al fresco restaurant. Open daily from 7am until sunset (7pm) Day pass is AED100 on weekdays and AED150 on weekends. +971 4 430 9466

Saadiyat Beach Club Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi Saadiyat Beach Club is one of the most exclusive beach clubs in Abu Dhabi where you can relax in personal pool cabanas, enjoy culinary delights and indulge yourself in the pleasures of a spa. Open from 10am until sunset. Day pass per person is AED280 on weekdays and 450 weekends. +971 2 656 3500

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS For those who love to spend their vacation enjoying the great outdoors, the UAE, with its charming coastal cities, sunny weather and stunning natural terrain, offers a whole lot of outdoor havens.

If you're more excited about a challenging hike than half a day at the spa, here you may find ideas on activities for your perfect outdoor adventure. From city parks and picnic spots to remote and off-the-beaten-path places, every emirate has an adventure to offer. We’ve roughed it out so your vacation in the UAE can be full of interesting and adventurous outdoor activities.

BEFORE SETTING OUT TRAVEL WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE This one goes without saying; venturing out to remote areas all by yourself is a bad idea, simply because if your vehicle breaks down, there’s no backup.

STOCK UP ON NECESSITIES Make sure you have enough supplies such as food, water, and warm clothing to get your through your trip.

Off-Road & Camp Off-roading is a great way to get out and experience that sense of adventure that is so often missing in our lives.

Nothing is more exciting than jumping into an all-terrain vehicle and driving it out into the wilderness.

In the UAE, Some of the best places for off-roading are located in the desert, while wadis offer beautiful scenery that ranges from the smooth landscapes to rocky cliff sides and waterfalls. But before you take off down a very bumpy and treacherous path, you really should take a few matters into account. So where do you start?

The first thing you should ask yourself is whether you want to do the off-roading on your own or with the help of the experts (Tour Operators). Most people opt for the help and leave the dune bashing to the professionals.

BE EQUIPPED Make sure you have all the safety equipment. This should include enough fuel, a lift jack, tow straps, tyre Inflating pump, shovel, spare tyre, navigation system, and a first aid kit.

DON'T PUSH IT Drive responsibly and don’t attempt to push your vehicle over terrain rougher then it is capable of tackling.

BE GOOD TO THE ENVIRONMENT Don't drive over fragile desert vegetation and /or leave rubbish behind.

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TIP: ALWAYS CARRY YOUR PASSPORT WITH YOU WHEN SETTING OUT TO EXPLORE SOME OF THE AREAS FALLING CLOSE TO OMANI TERRITORIES. ALTHOUGH VISAS ARE NOT REQUIRED, YOU MIGHT HAVE TO PASS THROUGH PASSPORT CONTROL CHECKPOINTS.

Several tour operators, namely Extreme Adventure Dubai (www.adventure-dubai.com), Arabian Adventures (www.arabian-adventures), and Absolute Adventure (www.adventure.ae), will only be too happy to take you on a hassle-free outdoor adventure. However, if you want to brave the wilderness on your own, then what you need is a competent off-road driver and a capable vehicle. Let’s start with the car. Car hire companies will NOT allow you to drive their cars off the tarmac for insurance coverage reasons. Luckily, the guys at Offroad Zone (www.offroad-zone.com) will let you take one of their off-road-ready 4x4s into the wild but only after you’ve passed their off-road driving course. Once you’ve managed to get the car, the next think you should think about is the destination.

Image Credit: www.shedexpedition.com

Hatta Pools Located within the Hajar Mountains in Oman, Hatta Pools makes a great choice for a day trip or overnight camping. The area boasts natural water pools and some of the most beautiful views in the region. Hidden amidst spectacular waterfalls and narrow rock corridors, the pools offer visitors a refreshing swim while the surrounding oases are the perfect places to pitch a tent under the stars.

GPS coordinates: 24.710994, 56.182574

Wadi Wurayah National Park Falling between Khorfakkan and Masafi, Wadi Wurayah is one of the most beautiful wadis in the region. Besides the beautiful natural landscape, the wadi is home to the UAE’s most visited waterfalls, a few heritage monuments as well as many species of flora and fauna that cannot be found elsewhere. Swimming in the natural pools here is a great way to cool off after a hike.

However, due to the thoughtlessness of some visitors, the area was recently closed to allow its ecosystem to recover. While the area is not fenced off, disturbing it's peace will be fined according to officials.

GPS coordinates: 25.398424, 56.270835

Liwa Oasis Situated 220km south west of Abu Dhabi on the edge of the great Empty Quarter desert (Rub Al Khali), Liwa Oasis is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the desert away from the noise and pollution of the city, with nothing but the starry skies above you. The dunes surrounding the oasis are known to be the highest in the world, and can reach up to 330 metres in height GPS coordinates: 23.135940, 53.783569

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THE 10 BEST & BIGGEST PARKS IN THE UAE Capital Garden, Abu Dhabi Corniche Park, Abu Dhabi Creek Park, Dubai Jumeirah Beach Park, Dubai Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi

Cycle & Picnic

Mamzar Beach Park, Dubai

For the less adventurous who want to enjoy fresh air and sunshine in a more relaxed environment than the harsh mountains and deserts, parks are the best alternative.

Besides being lush and attractive, parks in the UAE feature numerous recreational facilities, and make the perfect places for day trips, barbecues and picnics (short or long).

While parks are no places for 4x4s and dirt bikes, some of them are bicycle-friendly. However, cycling isn’t just confined to parks. Dubai alone boasts over 100km of dedicated cycling tracks around the city. And with the streets being clogged with cars, cycling to get around will prove as a wheely good idea! As long as you stay away from main roads and wear safety gear of course!

Mountain bikers who want to challenge their legs will also not fall short of rough dirt paths to power through. As a matter of fact, once done challenging their own legs, bikers can move on to challenge other cyclers at either The Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge (cyclechallenge.ae) taking place every December or The Great Dubai Pulse Ride (www.dubaipulseride.com) organized by The Cycle Hub (www.thecyclehub.com) every November.

Mushrif Park, Dubai Safa Park, Dubai Saqr Park, Ras Al Khaimah Zaabeel Park, Dubai

Sharjah Corniche (www.bykystations.com). To find a terminal, download the Nextbike app from the Apple App Store.

Fun Rides Sports offers bike rentals and tours service to residents, tourists and sports enthusiasts in Abu Dhabi. (www.funridesports.com) Probike is a bike shop and bicycle service centre located in Al Barsha, near Mall of the Emirates. Probike also rents road bikes, bike racks and bike cases (www.‌probike.‌ae) Trek is a cycle store run by cyclist that rents everything from hybrids, full suspension mountain bikes and sand bikes to road bikes and Tri bikes. What's great about this bike shop is that it's located right next to the 86km Al Qudra Cycle Track (www.trekbikes.ae) Located along Sheikh Zayed Road, Wolfi’s Bike Shop has a fleet of road bikes that are available for hire on a first-come-first-serve basis. (www.wbs.ae)

Where to hire a bicycle Byky is a bike-sharing network with multiple terminals currently across Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai and

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QUICK FACT:

Fishing and pearl diving were the ultimate sources of wealth in the Emirates, long before the discovery of oil and that's the reason why dhows (traditional wooden boats) are cherished as national heritage today.

Sail & Dive Bordered by the crystal blue waters of the Arabian Gulf from the west and the Gulf of Oman from the east, the UAE offers a wide range of on and under water activities.

And with spectacular marine life and fantastic diving conditions, you can rest assured that your sea adventure in the UAE will go rather swimmingly!

So what is there to do at sea? The answer is more than you can do in one day. And no, we are not talking about towed inflatables. For a real adventure at sea, deep-sea fishing, coastal cruising and scuba diving are the activities to consider, so take your pick!

For a memorable underwater adventurer, Al Boom (www.alboomdiving.com) as one of the favorites – welcomes divers of all certifications. And with the 'all-inclusive' services, all you have to worry about is which waters to brave. Coming to it, you'll find that the east coast offers coral reefs and better diving conditions, while the west coast offers wrecks and more challenging dives with visibility ranging between 5 to 15 metres.

However, if you don't have much time to spare taking all the courses and the training necessary for a serious dive, then you might find the surface to be a more appropriate place. Many people would tell you that you haven't really experienced the UAE until you've chartered a boat... Probably because there are very few places better than a boat from which you can admire the remarkable landscapes of the Arabian Gulf shoreline. You'll also have some options to choose from – watch the dolphins play from a luxury yacht or a traditional wooden dhow? or maybe just swing your hookline from a fishing boat and wait for a barracuda to take the bait.

Plus, chartering a boat is a real walk in the park thanks to the numerous licensed marine companies you can choose from. To make it even easier we've picked out a few bests:

Tirena Boats services cover everything in the yachting hemisphere from sightseeing and celebratory cruises to fishing trips. (www.tirenaboats.com) Arabian Yahting is the luxury yacht specialist in the Middle East. Deep-sea fishing, cruising and a relaxing time on-board are some of the activities they have in store (www.arabianyachting.com) Whether you are looking for an island drop-off, a sightseeing cruise or a fishing charter, Dubai Ultimate Charter has it all. (www.dubaiultimatecharter.com)

QUICK TIP: visit Adventure HQ (www.adventurehq.ae) for all your adventure needs in the UAE.

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A TABLE for Two

When it comes to romantic dining, choosing the right restaurant can make all the difference. If you are looking for the food of love in the UAE, then you are in the right place. The restaurant scene here offers cosy ambiances, breath-taking views, saucy cuisines and seductive beverage lists. So whether you are planning to pop the big question or just revel in your romance, there is surely an experience to stir the feelings of your special someone. Here are some of our favourites:

Bateaux Dubai

On Bateaux Dubai, you can enjoy your selection from the Ă -la-carte menu and the extensive selection of fine beverages as your cruise gently along the scenic Dubai Creek. The elegant Bateaux Dubai dinner cruise offers international gourmet cuisine prepared on-board to soft tunes played live on the boat. Cruises take place seven days week from 8:30pm to 11pm.

Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai +971 4 814 5553

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Pierchic Perched upon stilts in the open water, Pierchic restaurant is sure to uncover the Romeo in you. Take a stroll out to sea along the wooden pier towards the twinkling lights of Pierchic restaurant for impeccable seafood coupled with uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf, the iconic Burj Al Arab, and a panorama of the beautiful Madinat Jumeirah resort.

Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai +971 4 366 6730

Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire

Headed up by the renowned threeMichelin star chef Pierre Gagnaire, Reflets presents sensational French menus and gastronomic creations that intrigue and play with the senses. Sink into the plush pink damask chairs, surrounded by artistic Murano glass chandeliers and mother-of-pearl adorned walls, while you fully indulge in the private and romantic waterfront setting and enjoy the tastes of the house beverages, recommended by Reflets’ sommelier.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City +971 4 701 1127

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At.mosphere

At.mosphere offers a dining experience like no other: a dinner At 442 metres high on Level 122 of Burj Khalifa. From up here, your lover’s heart will definitely skip a beat. Besides some of Dubai’s most dramatic views At.mosphere offers fine dining excellence for you and your loved one to enjoy.

Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai +971 4 888 3444

Bord Eau

In the setting of a chic dining room that boasts opulent fabrics and furniture, the chef de cuisine prepares seasonal fresh produce that is flown in from France and serves each dish as an artistic expression. Bord Eau offers a superb a la carte menu and daily specials. For the ultimate Bord Eau experience, the blind tasting menu is a must. Quiet instrumentals and a warm ambiance complement the rich gastronomy to create an intimate dining experience.

Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi +971 2 509 8511

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FOR A MORE SECLUDED AND INTIMATE EXPERIENCE OR TO MAKE AN EVENING EVEN MORE MEMORABLE, YOU CAN BOOK A PRIVATE DINNER UNDER THE STARS. SEVERAL HOTELS AND RESORTS OFFER TAILORED DINING EXPERIENCES FOR THOSE EXTRA SPECIAL NIGHTS. HERE IS OUR PICK OF THE TOP 3 ROMANTIC DINING EXPERIENCES AROUND:

Safran Tower at Banyan Tree Al Wadi

At Safran Tower, a symphony of oriental flavours is orchestrated for you and your loved one, while you enjoy complete privacy at the top of the tower amidst the spectacular desert dunes. An additional sunset camel ride, which will drop you at the foot of the tower for dinner, can be added upon request.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah +971 7 206 7777

The Orchard at Desert Palm, Dubai

The Orchard is secluded haven set against the backdrop of an antique fountain overlooking the green polo fields and palm trees. The intimate bougainvillea walk; a 30-metre candle-lit floral archway overlooking 500-year-old olive trees, leads onto the small garden of Aloe Vera where a culinary team will design your menu and carefully select a beverage to go with your food.

Desert Palm, Dubai +971 4 323 8888

Romantic Dinner on the Beach at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Watch the sun set over the sea providing the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable evening. At this romantic beach dinner, your every need will be catered to by your own butler as you relish a gourmet dinner in a private gazebo set especially for you on the pristine beach.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah +971 4 453 0444

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

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Saffron, Atlantis The Palm

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WILL WORK FOR BRUNCH Dubai is great at a lot of things, but if there's one thing Dubai is really, really great at, it's brunch! Drawn-out, indulgent and boozy, it’s a fate to which we all succumb as restaurants go above and beyond to deliver extravagant spreads every weekend. Tourist Magazine ate its way through dozens of brunches to bring you the best in town, leaving you with the only challenge: a table reservation.

BEST FRIDAY BRUNCHES

Al Qasr Brunch Come brunch time, Al Qasr hotel serves sumptuous delicacies from three of its restaurants: Al Hambra, Arboretum and MJ’s Steakhouse. Sway your way around endless buffet counters and cooking stations spread all across the ground floor of the hotel while enjoying live entertainment. If you’re looking for a quieter, more intimate version of the this brunch, Pierchic offers combines the freedom of a buffet and the proficient cooking of a good a la carte surf-andturf selection – all accompanied by decent quality bubbles.

Saffron Brunch At Saffron, unleash your inner plate-piling self with over 220 different dishes to choose from. The Saffron Brunch is one of the most extensive brunches in Dubai that will fill your plate and your glass with fantastic food and drink as you enjoy entertainment by the resident DJ. When: 12:30pm-4pm Where: Atlantis The Palm Price: AED 485 per person Reservation: Recommended (+971 4 426 2626)

When: 12:30pm-4pm Where: Al Qasr Hotel Price: Different Packages starting from AED 475 per person.

Reservation: Essential (+971 4 366 6730)

Al Qasr Brunch Image credit: Jumeirah.com

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Bubbalicious at The Westin Mina Seyahi With more than 10 live cooking stations in three of Dubai's hottest restaurants, Bubbalicious is of the most diverse brunches in Dubai.

Guests will be able to move freely through each of The Westin's eateries of Blue Orange, Hunters and Spice Emporium, seeing their delicious meals, while entertainment comes in the form of a band and the superb spectacle of Chinese entertainers from the variety of acrobatics, Petting zoo, and Kids corner.

When: 1pm-4pm Where: The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Price: Different packages starting from AED 390 per person Reservation: Essential (+971 4 399 4141)

Friday Brunch at Traiteur Brunch is in the details, and Traiteur nails it from starters to dessert. Take in the jazz sounds as you savour French fare from the extensive buffet. The theatre-style kitchen and the outdoor terrace area over-looking the marina are also part of the experience.

When: 12:30pm-4pm Where: Park Hyatt Dubai Price: Different packages staring from AED 465 per person Reservation: Recommended (+971 4 317 2222)

Urban Picnic at 3in1 The elegant yet casual 3in1 restaurant with its terrace space by the pool is one of the favourite places to unwind on a weekend, and their picnic brunch deal makes it all the more alluring. Grab a picnic basket and blanket, and chill out to the tunes of the live DJ set while you enjoy the indulgent yet not overly gluttonous menu. Once you factor in the drinks, the quality of the food and the pleasant environment, it’s an absolute bargain.

When: 1pm-5pm Where: Vida Downtown Price: AED 225 per person Reservation: Essential (+971 4 428 5923)

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Image credit: Jumeirah.com

BEST SATURDAY BRUNCHES Saturday Jazz Brunch at Imperium With the charm of the royal interiors of Imperium and the tunes of soulful Jazz, this is one of our go-to Saturday brunches.

The food, complemented by the rich flavours of Creole, Cajun and Louisiana-inspired cuisine, is also a crowd-pleaser.

When: 1pm-4pm Where: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Price: Different Packages starting from AED 275 per person Reservation: Essential (+971 4 453 0444)

Spanish Saturdays at El Sur There are no fancy buffets at El Sur’s Saturday Brunch, just a broad menu of Spanish tapas served in modern interpretations. On one recent Saturday, the menu featured langoustines, foie gras and ceviches prepared in many different ways. The best part is that you can wash it all down with freeflowing sangrias.

When: 12:30pm-3:30pm Where: The Westin Dubai Price: AED 295 per person Reservation: Recommended (+971 4 399 7700)

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Saturday Brunch at 40 Kong What makes this Saturday brunch particularly notable is the spectacular views of the city below which can be enjoyed from the open-air rooftop restaurant located on the fortieth floor of The H Hotel. Enjoy the views to a cool backdrop of beats from 40 Kong’s Resident DJs while nibbling on the international à la carte menu.

Where: 1pm-4pm Where: The H Hotel Price: Different packages starting from AED 275 per person Reservation: Recommended (+971 50 297 2097)

Al Badia Picnic Brunch One of the most refreshingly unique brunches in town; this family-friendly, alfresco brunch is set on the lush lawn of Al Badia Golf Club, overlooking the golf course. You are welcomed by a blanket and a generously-packed picnic basket before personalizing your main course at the live cooking stations. You can kick off your shoes and lay down on the grass while the kids enjoy the separate play area. Due to the weather, the brunch runs between October and early April.

When: 12pm-4pm Where: Al Badia Golf Club by InterContinental, Dubai Festival City Price: AED 265 (soft drinks). AED 365 (house beverages) Reservation: Recommended (+971 4 701 1127/8)

Saturday Beach Brunch at Blue Marlin Ibiza At this brunch there’s more than just food; you’ll find sun, sand, and music. Soak up the sun from your beach lounger or from the beachfront restaurant as you enjoy culinary delights ranging from salads, roasts, sushi, cold cuts, and desserts paired with fabulous cocktails and drinks.

When: 1pm-5:30pm Where: Al Jazira Golden Tulip Hotel and Resort Price: AED 240 for restaurant-only access and AED 285 for Terrace & Beach access Reservation: Essential (+971 56 113 3400)

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Prime Hospitality

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Happy Hours Our pick of the best happy hours in Dubai

You know that time when you could really use a break… from expensive cocktail prices? The good news is going out for drinks in Dubai does not have to poke a hole in your wallet. You just have to know where to go and when, as several bars and lounges offer happy hours where you get two-for-one with all the fun. Check out our picks, and make sure to map them out for your night out on the town.

1. Fai

5.360°

6pm-9pm daily Best for: views of Downtown Dubai in relaxed surroundings

5pm-8pm all week except Fridays Best for: by the sea + sunset views

This hidden gem of a bar is a great place to sip drinks in a chilled atmosphere while taking in the fantastic views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains away from the crowds.

The Palace – The Old Town, Downtown Dubai (+971 4 888 3444)

Located at the end of its very own pier, 360 offers panoramic views of Dubai’s golden shore; a perfect place to watch the sunset while enjoying your favourite drinks to the laidback tunes played by the venue’s resident DJ. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai (+971 55 5008518)

2. Belgium Beer Café

6. Vault

5pm-7pm on Sundays & Mondays Best for: Belgian brews in an olden-day-bistro style

6pm-8pm daily Best for: pairing your drinks with cigars

Dubai’s Belgian Beer Café offers visitors an authentic experience of an olden day bistro from early 1920s Belgium.

Old fashioned beer taps, imported memorabilia and antique floor tiles line the place giving it a warm, rural and lived-in feel, which you are sure to appreciate while enjoying the wide range of Belgian beverages.

Crowne Plaza Festival City, Dubai (+971 4 7011127)

This bar and lounge, designed to look like one big vault, is located high above on the 71st and 72nd floors of the JW Marriott Marquis hotel in Business Bay, allowing panoramic vistas of Dubai. The interesting design of Vault, its fine selection of renowned cigar brands, and the array of premium beverages, will cater for the need of the elite.

JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay, Dubai (+971 4 414 3000)

3. Cu-ba Rooftop Lounge

7. Trader Vic’s

6pm- 8pm daily Best for: night out in Deira

6pm-8pm Saturday through to Wednesday Best for: delicious tropical cocktails

This chic rooftop lounge offers a great vantage point of the city’s skyline and the lush greenery of Dubai Creek Golf Course combined with light bites from the tapas-style menu Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, Garhoud (+971 4 230 8582)

This Polynesian bar is the home of the original Mai Tai experience and the famed exotic concoction of tikis and ancient canoes. The place is always buzzing with live Cuban bands in an ambiance reminiscent of the South Pacific Islands.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai (+971 4 366 5646)

4. McGettingan’s

8. Blends

4pm-8pm Sunday through to Wednesday Best for: a pint of Guinness

6pm-2am on Sundays and Mondays Best for: switchroos and House music fans

McGettingan’s Irish pub looks and feels cosy with log areas and décor from past and modern Ireland. Here you will be treated to delicious Irish pub grub and the best Irish and international entertainment and sporting events that make McGettigan's the perfect place to experience Ireland in Dubai.

Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road (800 6247)

Blends is a fresh mix of three innovative experiences in one stylish setting. The trendy lounge serves a fine selection of bubbly and vintages, while the cigar room offers vintage and limited edition cigars. And for those looking for a comfortable place to linger, Blends’ mixologists serve up an array of creative beverages in the vibrant cocktail lounge.

The Address Dubai Marina (+971 4 436 7777)

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The Agency

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

Voda Bar

Trader Vic’s

Blends

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

9. Voda Bar

10. The Agency

7pm-9pm daily Best for: trendy night out

5pm-8pm Saturday through to Thursday Best for: vino lovers

This is uber-chic bar and lounge is a cool place to mingle with friends and enjoy a touch of style and sophistication. The choice of cocktails includes all the classics in addition to a large selection of international premium beverages.

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah (+971 4 453 0444)

The Agency wine bar in Dubai is your port of call at the end of a long day’s exploring. The stylish interior – a blend of dark wood and crimson velvet furniture – brings old world ambience to the contemporary wine bar experience.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah (+971 4 366 6730)

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Melting Pot Treat your palette to an endless array of flavours

Dubai is undoubtedly one of the best cities for food lovers to experience. Being a melting pot of cultures, the city has developed a very diverse food and drink culture. Only here you can enjoy French crepes for breakfast, sushi rolls for lunch, and Italian pasta for dinner. Tourist Magazine has consulted with foodies and sampled hundreds of restaurants to bring to you the best of cuisines there are.

Al Iwan

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

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Arabic

Al Iwan $$$ Burj Al Arab +971 4 301 7600 Khan Murjan Restaurant $$ Khan Murjan Souk, Al Wafi City +971 4 327 9795

Zaroob $ Sheikh Zayed Road +971 4 327 6060

Indian

Rang Mahal $$$ JW Marriott Marquis Dubai +971 4 414 3000

India Palace $$ Multiple locations across the UAE +971 4 339 9325 (Dubai Mall)

Kamat $ Multiple locations across the UAE +971 4 359 8444 (Mankhool)

Italian

Bice $$$ Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort +971 4 399 1111 Jamie’s Italian $$ Dubai Festival City Mall +971 4 232 9969

Rang Mahal

Hilton Dubai BiCE

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Tourist | Dining & Nightlife

Caffè Vergnano $ Downtown Dubai +971 4 388 2088

Honyaki

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

French

Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire $$$ Intercontinental Hotel Dubai Festival City +971 4 701 1127

Entrecote Café de Paris $$ The Dubai Mall +971 4 434 0122

Paul $ Multiple locations across the UAE +971 4 327 9669 (Wafi Mall)

Japanese Nobu $$$

Atlantis The Palm +971 4 426 2626

Honyaki $$ Souk Madinat Jumeirah +971 4 366 6730

Sumo Sushi $ Garhoud Dubai +971 4 283 0622

Chinese Yuan $$$

Atlantis The Palm +971 4 426 2626

P.F. Chang’s $$ Mall of the Emirates +971 4 395 1801 China Times $ Deira City Centre +971 4 295 2515

Spanish El Sur $$$

Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina +971 4 399 7700

Salero Tapas & Bodega $$ Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates +971 4 409 5888

Seville’s $ Wafi, Oud Metha, Dubai +971 4 324 4777

Mexican Fuego $$$

Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai +971 4 440 9300

El Chico $$ The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) +971 4 4233828

Hofbrauhaus $$ JW Marriott Hotel +971 4 607 7977 Brauhaus $ Jumeirah Rotana Hotel, Satwa +971 4 3455888

British

The Ivy $$$

Taqado $ Mall of the Emirates +971 4 385 1171

German

Der Keller $$$ Jumeirah Beach Hotel +971 4 406 8999

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Jumeirah Emirates Towers Boulevard, Sheikh Zayed Road +971 4 319 8767

Rivington Bar & Grill $$ Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai +971 4 423 0903

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London Fish & Chips $ Multiple locations across the UAE +971 4 434 0540 (The Dubai Mall)

Tchaikovsky

American

Manhattan Grill $$$ Grand Hyatt +971 4 317 2222

CLAW BBQ $$ Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai +971 4 432¬¬ 2300 Johnny Rockets $ Multiple locations across the UAE +971 4 434 1526 (The Dubai Mall)

Russian

Tchaikovsky $$$ Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai Marina +971 4 448 8222

Suvoroff $

Blue Elephant $$

Dubai Marina +971 4 437 0178

Al Bustan Rotana +971 4 282 0000

Troyka $$

Thai

Lemongrass $

Ascot Hotel, Bur Dubai +971 4 352 0900

Pai Thai $$$ Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah +971 4 366 6730

Manhattan Grill

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New Extension, Al Ghurair City, Al Rigga Street +971 4 295 1020

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Pai Thai

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

The Little Black Book Of Parties & Nightlife

Dubai nightlife is more vibrant than it’s been in years. We put together this guide to essential parties, nightclubs and afterdark action, which is sure to add “life” into your "nightlife".

A-LIST PARTIES AND NIGHTCLUBS IN DUBAI Sunday Occupy Sundays @ Cavalli Club An irresistible night with international DJs Various Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 4 332 9260 Get caught in the act on Sunday @ The Act A theatre-club experience in a Victorian setting Various Shagri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 52 811 9900 N’dulgent Nights @ N’dulge Hypnotic and seductive music played by N’Dulge Club’s resident DJs Soulninja & Rubi Fays Deep house Atlantis The Palm, Dubai +971 4 426 0561

Monday Eclectic Mondays @ Amika A blend of House, R&B, Hip Hop from now and the past Various The H Hotel, Dubai +971 4 354 4005 Retox Mondays @ Vanity Surprise DJs in a glamorous look and tropical ambience Various Al Murooj Rotana, Dubai +971 4 354 4005 Flyin’ Mondays @ Armani Prive A night aimed at Facecard holders and Emirates crew members Commercial & Top Charts Burj Khalifa, Dubai +971 4 888 3308

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Tuesday I AM Fashion Tuesdays @ Boutiq Ultra Lounge I AM (Innovation, Art and Music) is a night meshing these elements with fashion Various The Address Dubai Mall, Dubai +971 52 680 1855 Pink Ladies @ Mahiki A ladies night Polynesian style Various Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai +971 55 216 0181 This is…Tuesday @Tabla Club The ladies are the centre of attention on this as they drink free all night long!

Various Grand Millenium Hotel, Tecom, Dubai +971 52 691 1555

Wednesday Cavalli 54 @ Cavalli Club A night that recreates the ultra-chic scene of the legendary club Studio 54 70’s and 80’s hits Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 4 332 9260 Industry Night @ Movida A night dedicated to all those people that make the Dubai nightlife so great Various Radisson Royal Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 4 386 6844 Diamond Wednesday @ XL Beach Club Urban glam is the name of the game on this night Urban Club hits Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai +971 56 640 6161

Thursday Infusion Experience @ 360° A fresh experience introduced by Infusion Magazine with DJs from across the globe House Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai +971 55 500 8518 West End @ Studio F Dubai’s favourite R&B night with sounds from DJ Bliss, Masterstepz and DJ Badir R&B Emirates Towers, Dubai +971 55 226 8537 Cirque Savage @ Cirque le Soir The most animalistic entertainment night that will bring the savage in you Various Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 56 115 4507 Friday Massive Fridays @ Sensation An urban night brought to you by the best urban DJs Hip Hop Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai +971 4 332 4383 OMG @ 2Liv International DJ Alex Seda & Local DJ Ejaz sping the decks with a mix of commercial and cutting edge house music Commercial House Sofitel Palm Jumeirah, Dubai +971 55 986 7180 All We Need is @ VIP Room The ultimate weekend party for eclectic tunes played by international DJs! Various JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai +971 52 881 8888 Saturday XO Saturdays @ Armani Prive Armani’s urban night featuring R&B mash-ups in immaculate surroundings R&B Burj Khalifa, Dubai +971 4 888 3308 411 Sayrdays @ People by Crystal The Real Flava presents your weekly urban party with DJ Bliss & Friends R&B Raffles Hotel, Dubai +971 50 354 3131 Societe Noir @ Societe Societe Noir ends the weekend with hit after hit from the 80s, 90s and 00s 80s Dance Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai +971 50 357 1126

FURTHER AFIELD O1ne Yas Island O1ne Yas Island is an impressive monument that mixes art, luxury, technology and ingenuous engineering. The surface of the outer wall of the venue has been painted and designed by 19 of the world’s greatest artists. ♦ Leisure Drive, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi  +971 52 788 8111 17Squared Located at the luxurious Waldorf Astoria, 17Squared is an intimate lounge and nightclub that offers a delightful combination of exceptional views over Ras al Khaimah, signature cocktails and cool tunes.

Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah +971 52 788 8111 Blue Marline Ibiza Blue Marlin opens its doors for the first time away from its infamous home, Ibiza. The internationally award winning beach club offers a unique natural environment, unlike any other in the UAE, providing the highest quality of entertainment.

Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel and Resort, Ghantoot +971 56 1133400 People by Crystal Abu Dhabi People by Crystal Abu Dhabi is a VIP boutique nightclub that offers its guests the ultimate Abu Dhabi nightlife experience. The plush nightspot, initially born and bred in Dubai in 2010, now has a sibling in Abu Dhabi, fusing the appeal of an ultra exclusive lounge and a high-energy nightclub, featuring the most technologically advanced lighting and high fidelity sound.

The Collection, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

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A Fruitful Experience One thing is certain in the UAE: no matter what season it is, you can stroll through the produce aisles of a supermarket and find any kind of fruit you like – complements of the trade regulations in the country. So if you are shopping for exotic fruits or in the mood to try something new, here are some delicious fruits that you must try.

Papaya

The papaya is native to the tropics of the Americas.

The soft and juicy flesh of the papaya is red to orange in colour and is filled with black seeds.

Rambutan

Native to Indonesia and Malaysia and parts of Southeast Asia, the Rambutan has a sweet, mildly acidic flavour similar to grapes.

Kumquat

This orange-like fruit, native to south Asia, is the size of a large olive, and is eaten as a whole.

Kiwano (Horned Melon)

Kiwano is native to Africa but it’s cultivated in many parts around the world. This fruit has horn-like spikes, hence the name "horned melon". The flesh is jelly-like with a taste and texture similar to a cucumber.

Passion fruit

Native to Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and northern Argentina, passion fruit is either yellow or purple at maturity, with an aromatic soft interior filled with seeds.

Lychee

Lycees have a floral smell and a fragrant, sweet flavour.

Cultivation of this fruit began in China.

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Carambola (Star fruit)

In cross-section, the Carambola resembles a star.

It is popular fruit throughout Southeast Asia.

Longan

The longan is native to Southern Asia.

Its flesh underneath the shell is sweet and juicy.

Jackfruit

The jackfruit is native to parts of South and Southeast Asia.

Its fibrous flesh is comparable to a combination of apple, pineapple, mango and banana.

Mangosteen

Mangousteen grows mainly in Southeast Asia. The fibrous flesh is sweet and tangy.

Pitaya

This fruit is also known as the "dragon fruit". Native to Mexico, pitayas have a sweet, creamy pulp and a delicate aroma.

Date palm

Date palm is widely cultivated around the world. The fruit is considered a staple food of the Middle East, with the UAE being among its top producers in the world.

Pomelo

Pamelo is the largest citrus fruit. It is native to Southeast Asia, and is usually pale green to yellow in colour.

Manilkara zapota

Manilkara zapota, also known as Sapodilla, is native to southern Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. The fruit, containing two to five seeds, has a sweet, malty flavour.

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Durian

The durian is distinctive for its large size, strong odour, and thorn-covered husk. The fruit is native to Southeast Asia.

Tourist | Dining & Nightlife

SPICE IT UP Spices smell good and pack a flavourful punch in our dishes, yet most of us can’t tell the difference between Sumac and Saffron. Ever wanted to know what’s that spice your cooking show host just added to the recipe without having to Google it? Well, your chance to become a spice expert is here; just a hop in a taxicab and say the words: “Spice Souk” and you shall be taken to a fragrant marketplace where fresh spices from all over the world are sold. But before you do that, here’s a glimpse into the world of spices so you can spice it up with confidence.

Saffron

Saffron is considered one of the world’s most expensive spices. It comes from the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus flower and is used in various cuisines as a seasoning agent.

Sumac

The tart flavour of sumac makes it a considerable substitute to lemon juice.

Essential for cooking in the Middle East, It’s sprinkled on fish, chicken or over salad dressings.

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Cardamom

This spicy-sweet in flavour spice is often added to Arabic coffee and rice dishes in the Middle East. It is sold as whole dried seeds and ground.

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Cumin

Cumin is globally popular and an essential flavouring in many cuisine. It is has a slightly acidic aroma and a nutty flavoured. It is sold as whole dried seeds and ground.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is used mainly in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines. The seeds are bitter in taste but become sweet if roasted slightly.

Clove

Clove’s pungent sweet flavour makes it a perfect addition sauces, cakes and cookies

Star anise

This spice closely resembles anise in flavour, and is considered a cheaper substitute. It is used in many cuisines to enhance the flavour of meat.

Cubeb Nutmeg

With a sweet and nutty taste, nutmeg is used for flavouring many sweet as well as savoury dishes, usually in ground or grated form.

Similar in appearance and flavour to black pepper, cubeb is ground and used as a seasoning for meat or used in sauces.

Turmeric

Sold mostly as powder, turmeric is intensely aromatic, and has a bitter flavour. It is one of the key ingredients in many Asian dishes.

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Garam Masala

This is a famous Indian spice blend that includes black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, fennel, ginger and nutmeg.

It is used in many Indian Dishes

Ras El Hanout

Originating from North Africa, this spice blend is used in many savoury dishes, sometimes rubbed on meat or stirred into rice. Commonly used ingredients include cardamom, clove, cinnamon, ground chili peppers, coriander, cumin, peppercorn, paprika, fenugreek, and turmeric.

Za'atar

Za'atar is a mixture of sumac, sesame seed and herbs. It is often mixed with olive oil and spread on bread. It can also be used as a seasoning for salads and kebabs.

Dukkah

This Egyptian spice blend is often used on meats, rice, veggies and as a dip. The ingredients differs from country to another but most include sesame, coriander, cumin, salt and pepper.

Berbere Spice Mix

This spice blend is a key ingredient in the cuisines of Ethiopia and Eritrea.

Ingredients include chili peppers, garlic, ginger, dried basil, korarima, rue, ajwain or radhuni, nigella, and fenugreek.

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Set In Stone The United Arab Emirates is rich in historical sites and monuments. Travel back in time to the ancient eras by visiting some of the most significant ones.

As the parameters of metropolitan areas expand and modern-day attractions win the tourists over, historical sites and landmarks are getting more and more overshadowed. But for those who appreciate the ingenuity of the ancient inhabitants, the UAE offers heaps of historical marvels.

Despite the absence of detailed written history, the UAE is earning world acclaim for archaeological discoveries. This is because many significant archaeological discoveries have been made in the area since the beginning of the Oil Era. Excavations, identifying hundreds of previously unrecorded archaeological and fossil sites, have unearthed dwellings, tombs, forts, temples and other rudimentary structures that back to the early dawn of civilization.

Today, most of the excavated remains have been moved to museums or resorted for preservation. Only few sites remain untouched.

Here are the most significant historical and archaeological attractions.

ABU DHABI & AL AIN

Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi

Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi With its white walls today, Qasr Al Hosn, also known as Al Hosn Palace or White Palace, tells the stories of the land in the 18th century. It was first built as watchtower defending the only freshwater well in Abu Dhabi in 1761. The tower was later expanded to a small fort in 1793, when it became the permanent residence of the ruling Sheikh. A major extension to its current shape took place in the late 1930s. It remained the royal palace, and seat of government until 1966, hence the name Qasr Al Hosn, meaning the fort of the palace. In 2007, it was redeveloped as a historical site and was opened to the public. Qasr Al Hosn is located next to the Cultural Foundation, between Al Nasr Street, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, and Sheikh Zayed the First Street, opposite the Etisalat Tower.

Al Jahili Fort Built in 1891, the purpose of the fort was to protect Al Ain oasis and serve as a shelter for its residents in times of political turmoil. Consequently, the fort remained a residence for the Al Nahyan family even after Sheikh Zayed the First passed away in 1909. It was later handed out to the Brit-

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ish forces turning it into a base for the Trucial Oman Levies.

Years later, the fort was assigned to Al Ain Department of Antiquities and Tourism to be restored and be turned into a historical site for tourists. Al Jahili Fort lies in the southeastern section of Al Ain City, near the Al Ain Palace Museum.

Hili Archaeological Park Located about 12 km north of Al Ain City, the village of Al Hili has become internationally-known due to the discovery of human remains and artifacts of a settlement along with tombs dating back to the third millennium BC. The largest of these stone tombs, which were used as collective graves, has six chambers and is 2.5 metres high and 8 metres in diametre. Engravings of humans and oryx antelopes can be seen on two of the entrances. The government has turned the site into a park for visitors to discover the early history of Abu Dhabi while enjoying a relaxed garden atmosphere.

Hili Archaelogical Park

To learn about some of the traditional aspects of the desert way of life in the Emirates, visit the Heritage Village near Marina Mall, Breakwater, Abu Dhabi city.

Al Ain National Museum Al Ain National Museum is the oldest museum in the UAE. It was built under the ruling of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and was inaugurated on 2nd of November 1971. Located next to the Sultan Fort (one of the many forts and castles in Al Ain City), the museum has two main sections on ethnographic and archaeological aspects of the country, especially around Al Ain. It includes finds from the Bronze Age tombs at the Hili Archaeological Park on the outskirts of Al Ain.

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DUBAI

Dubai Museum

Al- Fahidi Fort/Dubai Museum Visiting this history museum today makes it hard to believe that at various times throughout history, it was a guarding fort, a ruler's palace, a garrison, and a prison. Al Fahidi Fort was built in several phases. The first tower was erected in 1787 and is believed to be one of the first-ever buildings in Dubai.

The fort was transformed to serve as a history museum in 1971. The museum depicts the ways of living in Dubai before the discovery of oil, and recreates scenes from the Creek, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life.

Hatta Heritage Village Perched atop Hatta Mountains just an hour’s drive from Dubai, Hatta Village is a great historical site that dates back as far as four hundred years. Constructed from materials such as mud, stone, reeds and palm tree trunks, it is the perfect reflection of the 16th century’s architecture in the region. After some heavy restoration, the village, consisting of 30 buildings, including a fort and a mosque, was opened to the public in 2001.

Visit Al Shindagha and Al Fahidi District in bur Dubai for a glimpse of the bygone era. A number of historic buildings are dotted around these areas.

SHARJAH

Sharjah Archaeology Museum

Sharjah Archaeology Museum The Sharjah Archaeology Museum is where all archaeological digs recovered in the Emirate of Sharjah, from the Stone Age to the present day, go to be displayed. The museum aims to preserve, interpret, and exhibit its collections to those who appreciate learning about Sharjah's archaeological heritage.

The collections include coins, jewellery, pottery and ancient weapons.

Sharjah Heritage Museum For an understanding of Sharjah’s diverse heritage, the Sharjah Heritage Museum is the perfect place to explore these traditions that have endured the test of time. A visit here is full of discovery with exhibits including works of art, currency, crafts, costumes, herbal medicines, music and folklore.

All Sharjah’s prominent historical sites and museums, including Al Hosn (carefully restored fort from 1820), are located in Sharjah Heritage Area.

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Al Bidiya Mosque

FUJAIRAH Fujairah Heritage Village and Fujairah Fort Situated on a hill along the cost of Fujairah, Fujairah Heritage Village was built the Mudhab tourist area in 1996 to provide a display of the traditional way of life in the Emirates.

It features homes, tools and other daily lifestyle needs of the past for visitors to appreciate. Within the Heritage Village is the Fujairah Fort, which was constructed in 1670, and is considered one of the oldest forts in the UAE. The fort has undergone Al Bidiya Mosque heavy renovation and restoration by the Department of Archeology and Heritage in Fujairah after having served as a defense building during a British attack in the early 20th century. The fort is surrounded by the remains of the town that it once protected. A theatre with the capacity to accommodate more than 3,000 spectators has been added to the village to showcase traditional performances such as dances.

Located in a small village named Al Bidiyah some 50km away from the emirate of Fujairah, this mosque is the oldest known mosque in the United Arab Emirates. The mosque is also known as Ottoman Mosque. The name comes from the builder’s name and has no connection to the Ottoman Empire. The mosque continues to host daily prayers today. In addition, it is a tourist attraction for visitors of Fujairah.

Located south of the Fort, opposite the Ruler's Palace, Fujairah Museum houses artifacts such as Bronze and Iron Age weapons, painted pottery, carved soapstone vessels and pre-Islamic silver coins.

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RAS AL KHAIMAH National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah The museum is a fort that was built in 1749, and served as the residence of the ruling Al Qasimi family until the early 1960s. Today this museum, situated behind the Police Headquarters in the old town, houses an intriguing collection of archaeological artefacts from numerous sites in the emirate.

Ajman Museum

Dhayah Fort Located about 15 km from Ras Al Khaimah, this 16thcentury fort offers scenic views of the mountains and overlooks the village of Shimal, a significant archaeological site.

The fort is a popular tourist destination as it served as a strategic military tower that is of great importance to the history of Ras Al Khaimah.

AJMAN Ajman Fort and Museum Built in eighteenth century, the fascinating museum was once a fort, the ruler’s palace and office, and even a police station in 1970. Today, it houses representations of the various historical periods of the emirate and the general surrounding area. These include archaeological artefacts, manuscripts, old weapons and reconstructions of life in the emirate before the discovery of oil set in.

Jazirat Al Hamra Intriguingly known as Ghost Town, this little deserted village south of Ras Al Khaimah, is one of the oldest coastal villages in the UAE. It’s believed that its 14th-century inhabitants left it behind in 1968. The decaying houses of this village, made from coral stone, are very scenic at sunset.

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Majestic Mosques Deep-rooted Islamic culture makes the UAE one of the best destinations to discover the Islamic religion in a relaxed environment. The country is exuberant with mosques of amazing architecture. Some of these mosques have become renowned landmarks for their beauty and grandeur, so much so that some of them have been dedicated to receiving non-Muslim visitors who are intrigued by these marvellous places of worship.

Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most attractive mosques in Dubai.

Built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, it truly reflects the essence of Islamic architecture. Until recently, the Mosque was the only mosque welcoming non-Muslim visitors with an interest to learn about the Islamic culture in Dubai.

For a better understanding of Islam, join the group tour inside the mosque that takes place Saturday through Thursday at 10am. The 75-minute tour is organized by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, and no reservation is required to attend.

However, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting the mosque.Traditional attire can be borrowed at the entrance for a small fee (AED 10).

Inside Jumeirah Mosque

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inside Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the most prominent and well-known mosque in the United Arab Emirates. It is the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who set its foundation stone. This great Mosque is renowned for its pure white colour and its diverse Islamic architecture, combining Mamluk, Ottoman and Fatimid styles. It features four minarets and eighty-two domes, representing the different styles. White marble clads the external walls and columns, and features relief carving of verses from the Holy Quran and Islamic ornamentation.

The mosque, which can accommodate more than 40,000 worshippers, is decorated with resplendent Swarovski crystals, glorious pools and columns with beautiful calligraphy. The Materials used in building Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque were sourced from many countries, setting records such as world’s largest chandelier in a mosque and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet.

After dusk, the unique lightning system reflects the phases of the moon. Soft undulating clouds of a bluish-gray colour are projected onto the white marble external surfaces of the mosque, including the façade and domes. As the moon progresses through its cycle and becomes full, so does the lightning effect.

Serving as a platform to enhance culture and knowledge, the mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors and tourist viewings Saturday through Thursday from 9am to 10pm and from 4:30pm to 10pm on Friday.

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Al Noor Mosque, Sharjah The emirate of Sharjah has over 600 Mosques, but Al Noor Mosque, located beside Khalid Lagoon on Buhaira Corniche, is regarded as the most brilliant in architectural design.

The Al Noor Mosque was built by the will of her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed al Qassimi, the wife of the ruler of Sharjah. It is the first mosque in Sharjah to open its doors to non-Muslim visitors so that they may learn about the UAE’s national culture and religion. A guided tour takes place at the mosque every Monday at 10am. The duration of this tour is about one hour, and it features explanations on Islam and culture of the country by a registered guide from the Sharjah Centre for Cultural Communication. During the tour, visitors are permitted to take photographs. The mosque is a photographic icon due to its beautiful surroundings.

MOSQUE MANNERS & DRESS CODE

Mosques are holy places of worship for Muslims. Upon entering the premises of a mosque, nonMuslim visitors are requested to dress modestly and conduct themselves appropriately.

• Children must be five years of age or older • Cell phones must be switched off • Shoes or sandals must be removed before entering the mosques • Food or drinks are not allowed inside the mosque

Dress code for men • No shorts • Shirts should not display pictures, symbol or slogans

Dress code for women • Full body should be covered (long sleeves) • Head should be covered with a headscarf • No tight or transparent clothing

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Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque, Dubai

Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque

With its four picturesque minarets, each bearing a golden crescent at its top, Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque has its own unique character. The mosque’s design is influenced by the Blue Mosque in Istanbul but also draws on the traditional Byzantine and Andalusian design elements.

Whilst the white-washed exterior of the mosque is nothing but majestic, the interior is even more so; on entering the mosque, your eye will be drawn to the sheer beauty of the ceiling with its intricate Islamic designs as well as the ornate chandelier hanging in the centre.

The “Blue Mosque,” as it’s also come to be known as, has a capacity to accommodate 4,000 worshippers, and attracts both residents and visitors alike. Every detail of the mosque, from its architecture to its carefully crafted interior, has been finely considered to serve as a place where Muslims can worship, and non-Muslims can be educated about Islam and the Arabic culture through a library and a lecture hall, equipped with audio video equipment.

Abdul Rahman Siddik Mosque

Inside Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque

INTERESTING FACT Al Bidiya mosque in Fujairah is the oldest known mosque in the United Arab Emirates. It is estimated to date to the 15th century. Its small, square structure has an area of 53 square metres and was built from simple materials available in the area, primarily stones and mud bricks. The mosque continues to host daily prayers.

Abdul Rahman Siddik Mosque, Dubai Although non-Muslims are not permitted to go inside this mosque, you will be amazed of its remarkable design. Located just before the tunnel entrance on the trunk of The Palm Jumeirah, this mosque has a unique modern architectural style. The mosque’s exterior incorporates the use of glass, steel and marble with a single dome and one towering minaret resembling an observation tower.

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Curtain Call

Theatres & Performing Arts in the UAE Though ceremonious theatres and opera houses with a historical or architectural significance are not very much conjured in the UAE, the few performing-arts venues spaces are often considered important cultural landmarks. Whether you're looking for intimate plays and warm musicals or sweeping orchestras, there is a number of spaces that host world-class performers. From grandiose complexes to traditional stages and IMAX screens, here are the best theatres and performing arts spaces the UAE has to offer.

Madinat Jumeirah Theater Image Credit: Jumeirah.com

Entertainment takes centre stage at the Madinat Theatre. From foot-tapping musicals and mesmerising live performances, to side-splitting stand-up comedy and the spectacular ballet, the theatre is always buzzing with events.

For information about shows and events, visit: www.madinattheatre.com or call +971 4 366 6546

Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre (DUCTAC)

Aside from offering courses in different art disciplines, DUCTAC has a state-of-the-art theatre that has a 543-seat capacity, and features a 120 square metre stage. The theatre regularly hosts plays, dramas, musicals and other stage performances. It is the first modern, nonprofit, cross-community creative centre in the Gulf.

For information about shows and events, visit www.ductac.org or call +971 4 341 4777

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Meydan IMAX Theaters

For film-lovers, Meydan IMAX Theatre promises a dazzling movie experience. The Meydan Theatre is home to the largest screen in the Middle East & Asia. Half the size of a football field, the screen is designed to encompass your peripheral vision, immersing you in the movie more than any other cinematic experience.

For information about shows and films, visit www.‌meydantheatre.com or call +971 4 381 3760

Dubai Opera House

Set to open in 2015, the Dubai Opera House will stimulate the city’s cultural and artistic milieu. The 60,000 square metre opera house that is shaped like a traditional sailing vessel is expected to rival many of the world’s performing-arts hubs. With a capacity to seat 2000 people, the Opera House will attract world-class performers of opera and drama from across the globe.

For information about Dubai Opera House, visit www.dubaiopera.ae or call +971 4 381 3760

Abu Dhabi National Theatre

Established in 1981, Abu Dhabi National Theatre was the very first theatre that shaped the preforming art scene in the UAE. Located in the heart of the capital, the theatre houses an auditorium with state-of-the-art lighting, sound and film equipment that is capable of entertaining 2,253 spectators.

For information about shows and films, call +971 2 621 5300

The Emirates Palace Auditorium

At the splendid Emirates Palace Auditorium, some 1100 spectators can enjoy in the finest listening pleasure.

Whether it’s for chamber music or a Romantic large orchestra, the hall, decorated with shimmering gold-leaf, possesses superb acoustics – the work of leading European experts – and offers exceptional seating comfort. Such famous personalities as Alan Greenspan have spoken here.

For information, visit www.emiratespalace.ae or call +971 2 690 9000

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The Finer Things ART FAIRS Abu Dhabi Art

For those to whom art is a soul food, the new-found yet rapidly-growing art scene in the Emirates seems to please. The country now boasts several events that celebrate international and regional talents, and new art districts pop up every other day.

Here’s our scoop on the scene:

Abu Dhabi Art’s platform has grown to include important milestones, reflecting the growth of Abu Dhabi’s art scene. The Abu Dhabi Art Public Programme is a corner-stone of the wider Abu Dhabi Art platform, which includes a dynamic, interdisciplinary set of initiatives that bring together influential artists, curators, collectors, gallerists and scholars from around the world. The programme highlights a number of important themes, including the discovery of new art and artists; transnational perspectives on the notion of value and the various ways it created; and considers the shifting scale of art – from architecture and monumental public works to art that sits in the palm of your hand.

For general inquiries about Abu Dhabi Art fair please call +971 2 406 1501

Art Dubai Over the last seven years, Art Dubai, the leading international art fair in the Middle East, North Africa and South

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Art Dubai is part of Art Week, an umbrella initiative that highlights the plethora of exhibitions, projects and events that now coincide with the fair each March, the most dynamic time in the UAE’s cultural calendar.

For inquiries about the fair, call +971 4 384 2000

Sharjah Art Biennial

Sharjah Art Biennial The Sharjah Art Biennial is a celebrated cultural event that holds a key regional position in the production and presentation of art in the region. The event is organised by the Sharjah Art Foundation, which plays a vital role in the development and sustainability of a budding yet vibrant art movement. Since its inception in 1993, The Sharjah Biennial has formed a cultural bridge between artists, art institutions and organisations locally, regionally and internationally.

For general inquiries About Sharjah Art Biennial, contact Sharjah Art Museum on +971 6 568 5050

Abu Dhabi Art

ART DISTRICTS Al Quoz, Dubai Al Qouz locality in Dubai has always been known as an industrial area but not until recently.

The area is now best known for its many art galleries, housed in warehouse spaces. Tucked away in the industrial quarter of Al Quoz is Alserkal Avenue – a warehouse complex with high density of art galleries. The complex is home to twenty creative organizations that cultivate Dubai's arts scene. The trove of artistic venues in the district include Ayyam Gallery, Carbon 12, Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde, Green Art Gallery, Grey Noise, Lawrie Shabibi, to name a few.

Al Quoz

DIFC Gate Village, Dubai The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a federal financial free zone situated in the Emirate of Dubai. Moreover, DIFC is home to a contemporary urban area devoted to art galleries, boutiques and restaurants called The Gate Village.

Located adjacent to The Gate, The Gate Village houses over thirteen galleries which showcase works by Middle Eastern and international artists.

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DIFC Gate Village

Al Fahidi Historic District

Heart of Sharjah, Sharjah The Heart of Sharjah is a central area that is regarded as a distinct urban representation of Sharjah’s cultural and artistic identity. Together with two other sites like Al Qasba and Sharjah Art Museum, the mosaic of Sharjah’s art scene comes together forming a beautiful picture that is the vision of Art Spaces project. Art Spaces aims to deliver exhibition buildings and gallery spaces to experience art and culture in the emirate.

Downtown Dubai, Dubai Dubbed as the world's most prestigious square kilometre and described as the 'new heart of the city,' Downtown Dubai is a 500-acre development boasting world-class commercial, residential, hotel, entertainment, shopping and leisure components. It’s no surprise that this it’s the next art district on the list. The most prominent galleries here are The Pavilion, The Serigraph Studio, Gallery One, and Opera Gallery.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

LOUVRE ABU DHABI Born of an agreement between the governments of Abu Dhabi and France, Louvre Abu Dhabi will be the first universal museum in the Arab world. The museum is due to open in 2015.

Al Fahidi Historic District, Dubai Also knows as Al Bastakiya District, this historic district in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest residential areas in the city. With many historic buildings and attractions, the laidback neighbourhood is now a cultural centre where tourists flock to see the contrast between the preserved past and present metropolis.

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Saadiyat Cultural District

Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi Since its establishment, the Saadiyat Cultural District has quickly become a cornerstone of the expanding art and culture scene in Abu Dhabi. As the realization of Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi approaches, Saadiyat Cultural District will soon become an art hub for the region.

Just as of now, Manarat Al Saadiyat and the UAE Pavilion are alive and vibrant with a wideranging series of exhibitions, special events, art fairs, public programmes and educational initiatives taking place all year-round.

HOTELS WITH AN ARTISTIC BEND XVA Art Hotel Hidden in the heart of the historical Al Fahidi neighbourhood, XVA Art Hotel offers 10 individually designed suites to its solace-seeking guests. This centrally-located hotel is committed to raising the profile of contemporary art practice in Dubai and serving as an annex gallery for many curated art exhibitions. www.xvahotel.com

XVA Art Hotel

Noon Art Located in Al Barsha, the 12-floor boutique hotel apartments is dedicated to displaying Middle Eastern art brought to life by three acclaimed Arabic artists: Dr. Najat Meky (Emirati), Ali Hassan (Qatari) and Khaled Ben Slimane (Tunisian). The three artists have created the concept of ‘art of hospitality’ and the entire hotel has been inspired by their art. There is an Art Gallery on the first floor with various art pieces from local and regional artists. www.noonhotel.com

Noon Art Hotel

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TIME FOR RECOVERY The 5 best spas in the UAE

Relaxation is a precious commodity. In the UAE, it comes in the form of luxury spa therapies, complete with tranquil pools, steam rooms and indulgent treatments. We picked five of the best pampering havens where you are sure to be soothed and rejuvenated.

Talise Ottoman Spa

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai +971 4 453 0456 Built around the majesty and grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, Talise Ottoman is the largest spa in the Middle East and winner of multiple awards. The spa offers limitless ways in which you can pamper yourself with 42 treatment rooms, eight hydrotherapy rooms, steam rooms, saunas, snow rooms, floating baths and two thalassotherapy pools. The marble Turkish hammam, decorated with mosaics and murals at the heart of spa, is the perfect place to relax and experience true indulgence.

Treatments to try:

• Radiant Date Face – a creamy mask, infused with date extract and hyaluronic acid to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet and puffiness.

• Royal Ottoman – a traditional kese mitt body polish and foam massage followed by a facial to revitalise the skin.

• Velvet Nights – This pampering signature treatment is perfect for newly-weds looking for a relaxing experience. You will be treated to a lavish body polish before submersing into a bath infused with goat’s milk and essential rose oil followed by a body massage.

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

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Talise Ottoman Spa

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

Tourist | Beauty & Wellbeing

Image credit: Jumeirah.com

Talise Spa

Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai +971 4 366 6818 Set amidst the tranquil waterways and tropical landscapes of Madinat Jumeirah, the award-winning Talise Spa features 26 treatment rooms, and offers a variety of signature experiences, facials, massages and body treatments, all personalised to cater to individual needs. Facilities include relaxation areas, infra-red sauna, steam rooms plunge pools and a yoga studio which caters to group and personal sessions.

Treatments to try: • Royal Signature Couples Message – Couples enjoy this signature treatment side-by-side starting with a soothing foot bath and a full body massage.

• Talise Sea Shell Experience – The combination of soothing strokes with smooth and gentle pressure applied by natural sea shells guarantees this sensational experience will leave your body and mind in a calm and peaceful state.

• Shiffa 24-carat Gold Hammam – a luxurious exfoliation with a Moroccan Hammam mitt followed by a gold clay body mask and gold-infused precious oils that stimulates and revives the skin.

ESPA

Yas Viceroy, Abu Dhabi +971 2 656 0862 At this award-winning spa, classic healing traditions blend with modern techniques to provide a rejuvenating experience. ESPA will meet all your expectations with nine treatment rooms, separate private areas for male and female guests, a relaxation lounge overlooking the Yas Marina race track, plus the Viceroy Presidential Treatment Suite featuring its own hammam, steam room and Kinesis fitness equipment.

Treatments to try:

• The Yas Detox – a marine detox and body scrub that leaves the body cleansed and purified.

• Sun Escape – a soothing and hydrating treatment for sun exposed and sensitive skin.

• Tension Soother – a perfect body treatment to relieve deep-seated tension and muscular stress.

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Saray Spa

JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai +971 4 414 6754 Drawing on customs and traditions of the Caravanserai, Saray Spa offers a personal experience of restoration through ancient healing techniques and natural ingredients. The spa features 15 treatment rooms that are inclusive of men’s and women’s hamammas, Dead Sea floatation pool and state-ofthe-art hydro-facilities.

Treatments to try:

• Saray Signature Dead Sea Journey – This signature treatment takes place in a special room equipped with its own Dead Sea Floatation Pool. It includes a body scrub and a full body mask with salts and mud from the shores of the Dead Sea. The treatment concludes with a soothing body massage.

• 7 Flower Royal Treatments – From the kingdom of Siam comes this healing ritual which uses sacred flowers, including lotus, to cleanse and massage your body and face.

• Aromatic Basil and Mint Awakening – This treatment uses aromatic Egyptian Basil and Fresh mint to polish and massage your body. It also includes a hair and scalp treatment done with herbal oils.

Banyan Tree Spa Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah +971 7 206 7777 This oasis of indulgence, located amidst the tranquil Wadi Khadeja in Ras Al Khaimah, blends harmoniously with the rolling dunes of the surrounding desert. The time-honoured healing therapies are performed by therapists who are formally trained at Banyan Tree Spa Academies in Bintan in Indonesia, Phuket in Thailand or Lijiang in China, ensuring that each spa experience is of a high level of consistency and quality that Banyan Tree Spa is renowned for.

Treatments to Try: • Royal Banyan – This signature therapy features the Royal Banyan Herbal Pouch Massage with mixed techniques that improve blood circulation and muscular tension. The Jade Face Massage improves skin condition and firms up facial muscles, leaving behind a glowing complexion.

• Egyptian Beauty – an invigorating body scrub and a luxurious body wrap. Soak your tired muscles in a relaxing Honey & Milk Bath and complete the treatment with a massage that restores body balance.

• Rainforest Indulgence – This hydrothermal therapy features a series of hot and cold body treats promoting body detoxification. It is completed with a body massage.

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Tourist | Hotels

The Sands of Time Rarely do tourists visit the United Arab Emirates and not venture out into its vast deserts after surreal sunset camel treks, exhilarating dune drives and wildlife safaris, but besides the adventures there is something a little more refined to experience… Tucked away amid the vast starkly sea of sand dunes, are some of the most charming hotels and resorts – astounding oases that make the perfect destinations for those who seek solitude, dry air, and warm Arabian hospitality.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi www.banyantree.com

This idyllic all-villa desert retreat sits amid stretches of desert dunes surrounded by the evergreen ghaf trees of the tranquil Wadi Khadeja in Ras Al Khaimah. Being so peaceful, the wadi is sanctuary to some local desert fauna such as friendly Arabian gazelles, camels and oryxes, which guests are encouraged to interact with and observe through the resort’s nature reserve.

Designed to blend into the surrounding environment, the architectural design of Banyan Tree Al Wadi takes on an adaptation of traditional Arabic architecture: each villa is finished with high ceilings and elaborate Arabic touches of lattice woodwork, stylized motifs and intricate carvings.

Furthermore, 31 of the villas feature a Bedouin-inspired tented roof, which inspires the romance of living like the nomads of yore.

When it comes to “relax, recharge and unwind”, each of the plush 101 villas, offer a private pool and a tranquil view of the desert for quiet contemplation, while the Asian-inspired spa facilities heightens the soul-soothing experience at this sanctuary.

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Bab Al Shams

www.meydanhotels.com Surrounded by the gently sloping dunes of Dubai, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa offers guests a more traditional desert experience that is true to the culture and heritage of Dubai and the UAE. The resort is built in an Arabic fort setting in and around an oasis. Inside the walls, shaded courtyards, walkways and water features provide cool shelter and maintain the unique ambience and atmosphere.

Located in the heart of the desert, yet is just a 40-minute drive from the city of Dubai, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa presents the ideal destination for those seeking a unique desert experience within easy reach of the city.

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Qasr Al Sarab

www.qasralsarab.anantara.com For those in favor of venturing further afield, Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara is the ideal destination.

Located in Liwa Oasis on the northern edge of the Rub' al Khali, known as largest sand deserts in the world, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara embraces the epic adventures of this landscape by providing a luxury oasis within an oasis for discerning travellers.

The resort distinguishes itself from other Abu Dhabi hotels by bringing its guests the quintessential Abu Dhabi luxury resort experience with leisure facilities in the heart of the desert.

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Tourist | Hotels Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

ALSO TRY Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa www.al-maha.com

This resort by The Luxury Collection is located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve deep within Dubai’s magical dune and desert landscape. The internationally awarded hideaway offers a true sense of desert adventure with five-star hospitality.

Tilal Liwa

Tilal Liwa

www.tilalliwa.danathotels.com Situated within Liwa Oasis in Abu Dhabi’s desert, this four-star property makes another great escape from the city, and offers excellent amenities and activities.

Arabian Nights Village www.arabiannightsvillage.com

Although this desert camp does not hit the mark as “Hotel”, it does however offer comfortable chalets and suites complete with a traditional desert safari experience, which includes sand sledding, camel riding, henna painting, meals, and a belly dance show.

Arabian Nights Village

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ON A BUDGET 10 Wallet-Friendly Hotels for Travellers on a budget

With hotels like Burj Al Arab and Emirates Place, most people fall under the impression that a visit to the UAE unavoidably costs a fortune. This is untrue; many hotels offer great value for money. While they may not offer golden iPads and Hermès bathroom products, they do, however, offer comfortable rooms and amenities.

vides guests with free Internet access, a rooftop pool and a gymnasium, along with a complementary shuttle service to the beach.

Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai +971 4 332 0000 Located just off Sheikh Zayed Road, the hotel is a part of the Dubai Convention and Exhibition Centre, and is only minutes away from Dubai Mall, DIFC, Bur Dubai and Deira. Guests here can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, gym, beauty salon and a choice of restaurants and bars.

Sharjah Premiere Hotel & Resort, Sharjah +971 6 528 2777 This two storey hotel is positioned between the clear blue waters of the Arabian Gulf and the town centre where the famous Sharjah Blue Souk is located. The hotel has a pear shaped outdoor swimming pool with a waterfall as an added feature, and fitness Centre located on the roof-top.

Guests also benefit from the free bus shuttle service for shopping trips to Dubai.

Orient Guest House, Dubai +971 4 351 9111 Located in the Bastakiya Heritage area, Orient Guest House offers guests a window to the past. It is a traditional two storey villa restored to its former glory and offers ten Arabian-style decorated rooms and a majlis (lounge) for travellers to get a true taste of the times gone by.

Centro Yas Island-by Rotana, Abu Dhabi +971 2 656 4444 Located conveniently on the spectacular Yas Island, Centro is a contemporary concept designed for a new generation of travelling executives who demand both finesse and functionality at reasonable rates. The hotel is a few minutes away from the F1 Racetrack, Yas Links Golf Club, Yas Southern Marina, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Yas Beach.

Citymax Hotel Al Barsha, Dubai +971 4 409 8000 Citymax Hotel Al Barsha sits close to the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Internet City and Jumeirah beach, giving you convenient options for business and leisure. The hotel pro-

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Sharjah Premiere Hotel & Resort

Orient Guest House

Centro Yas Island-by Rotana

Beach Hotel by Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts

Fortune Royal Hotel, Fujairah

include an outdoor pool, water sports and a mini golf. The hotel is 5 minutes away from Ajman city centre and Ajman Museum.

+971 9 223 8886 Fortune Royal Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of city on Al Ghorfa Road in Fujairah. The Hotel features a fitness centre, a spa and a rooftop swimming pool which boasts of amazing views of Fujairah Ocean & mountain.

Beach Hotel by Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts +971 7 235 2233 This 4-star beach hotel, part of Bin Majid Hotels & Resorts is situated near the beach and the heart of Ras Al Khaimah.

Recreational facilities include an Olympic-size swimming pool, a fitness centre and a wide selection of water sports that include jet skis, banana boat, pedal boat, and windsurfing.

Ajman Beach Hotel, Ajman +971 6 742 3333 Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Ajman Beach Hotel offers guests access to a private white beach and facilities that

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Suite Life

Peek inside the 5 most luxurious hotel suites in the UAE

There are luxurious hotel suites, and then there are luxurious hotel suites in the United Arab Emirates, where no detail has been overlooked. Complete with their own butlers and chefs and over-the-top amenities, these five suites leave guests not wanting for much.

Royal Suite (2,100m²) The St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi The Royal Suite is a duplex spanning across the upper two levels of the hotel. Located on the upper level of the Royal Suite are three individual bedrooms, a private study, a mini-cinema, and a games room outfitted with a billiard table. Guests may enjoy uninterrupted ocean views while lounging in the spacious terrace / bar or dining by the outdoor swimming pool.

Spanning the entire lower floor, the master bedroom comes with a private sea-view balcony.

Other features include a spacious ocean-facing bathroom with a walk-in double shower and bathtub, an expansive walk-in closet and dressing area, a spa room, and sauna.

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Royal Mangroves Residence (1,355m² to 2,455m²) Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi Spread over the fourth and fifth floors of the hotel, the Royal Mangroves Residence offers elegance unlike any other hotel accommodation in Abu Dhabi.

Guests of this exclusive suite enter the apartment-style abode through a private entrance and elevator to an enormous living space where they experience the height of luxury. The suite features its own private 50m2 infinity pool with a pool bar and a rooftop garden. Guests can also avail of private limousine chauffeur and butler services, while those travelling with an entourage can block off up to ten rooms that connect with the fourth floor.

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Royal Bridge Suite (924m²) Atlantis The Palm, Dubai The palatial Royal Bridge Suite majestically spans the arch which links the Royal Towers offering unparalleled 180-degree views of The Palm and the Arabian Sea. With its own guarded entrance and lift along with a dedicated team of people from butlers to chefs on hand to ensure that your every need is fulfilled, the Royal Bridge Suite is the only choice for if you are seeking the ultimate in privacy and luxury. The dÊcor is exquisite and opulent reflecting the stature of the suite. With 3 sumptuous bedrooms, a grand living room, a dining room which seats 16 people, a living room and two spacious terraces, the Royal Bridge Suite offers you the perfect haven in which to relax or entertain.

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Image Credit: Jumeirah.com

Royal Suite (780m²) Burj Al Arab, Dubai The Royal Suite at Burj Al Arab has been impeccably designed with an opulent colour scheme, sumptuous furnishings and exclusive amenities including a private lift and cinema. Both floors of this palatial suite feature sensational natural light and sublime uninterrupted views over the Arabian Gulf, while each of the two master bathrooms are equipped with full-size Jacuzzis and showers with a set of his and hers Hermes amenities in each bathroom.

The environment in the suite, including curtains, TV, in-suite music and light, are all remote controlled, and for the ultimate sleep experience, a selection of 17 types of pillows, Eiderdown duvets, exquisite Egyptian cotton linen and an ultra-deluxe super king bed are personalized to suit each guest's preferences.

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Palace Suite (680m²) Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Here, lucky guests will enjoy a presidential level of luxury with a spacious living area, three regal bedrooms, extensive private terrace and an elegant dining room. The luxurious space incorporates features such as a safe for valuable belongings and a state-of-the-art entertainment centre.

The magnificent view of the golden sands of the beach and clear turquoise sea accentuate the splendour of the suite, while the king size beds provide a restful end to days spent lounging by the pool or enjoying the sights and sounds of the UAE's capital.

The Suite features a fully appointed palatial bathroom with a private Jacuzzi, offering yet another relaxing and luxurious aspect.

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Treasure Hunt Shoppers with a soft spot for bling have lots of glittering stores to get their retail therapy fix while in the UAE. There is abundance of areas, stores and shopping centres dedicated to selling everything jewellery, from precious and semi-precious metals to diamonds and rubies. Gold, however, is especially sought after in the UAE due to its availability at much lower prices than anywhere else is the world. While top-end retailers are usually located in major shopping malls, the real treasure lies in the Gold Souk, fusing style with tradition. Never the less, if you're short of time but still want seize this precious opportunity, you don’t have to venture too far as luxury hotels often have jewellery shops located within them. Otherwise, a trip to nearest of the below places will make for an experience you’re likely to treasure.

Madinat Zayed Gold Centre, Abu Dhabi With more than 70 jewellery stores that offer traditional and contemporary gold, diamond and pearl jewellery from across the globe, the Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre is a true jewel in the city.

QUICK FACT: The per capita gold consumption in Dubai is the highest in the world.

Gold & Diamond Park, Dubai Conveniently located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Gold & Diamond Park is a must-go on every shopper’s list. This specialty mall has 90 of the leading jewellery retailers housed within, and customers are welcome to commission their very own designs at the next-door manufacturing blocks. Travel to Gold & Diamond Park can be done through the Dubai Metro as there’s a station right outside the entrance.

Dubai Gold Market Place, Dubai Shyam Jewellery and Joy Alukkas as well as smaller shops.

Dubai Gold Souk can be reached by taking the Dubai Metro to Al Ghubaiba then an Abra across the creek.

Connecting the two parts of Dubai Festival Mall, Dubai Gold Marketplace features a modern environment which retains the ambience of old-souk charm. The marketplace houses over 60 shops offering an impressive selection of quality gold jewellery.

Sharjah Central Souk, Sharjah This souk is the first and foremost souk to house a cluster of gold jewellery retailers in the emirate of Sharjah.

Consisting of two adjacent buildings, the souk encompasses a variety of shops with the west building being almost fully devoted to retailers selling gold, silver jewellery and precious stones. Located at the mouth of Khalid Lagoon in Sharjah, the souk has stood there since 1979, which makes it a visitworthy landmark in the emirate.

Dubai Gold Souk, Dubai This traditional market is where all of Dubai’s gold trade first started. Located in the heart of Dubai's old commercial district in Deira, the souk consists of over 300 retailers that trade almost exclusively in locally-manufactured jewellery. Both retail and wholesale outlets can be found here, including well-established stores like Damas, ARY Jewellery,

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JEWELLERY EVENTS: Dubai International Jewellery Week Venue: Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre Dubai International Jewellery Week is an annual event that brings together the very best in jewellery and horology from around the world under one roof. You will find everything from diamond to bridal collections, timepieces and designer jewellery whilst enjoying the show’s many attractions. www.jewelleryshow.com

MidEast Watch & Jewellery Show Venue: Expo Centre, Sharjah The MidEast Watch & Jewellery Show is famed for bringing together leading jewellery chains and designers from all over the world, making it one of the largest regional jewellery

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showcases. Featuring trendsetting creations, the show attracts true connoisseurs of gold and diamond jewellery. www.mideastjewellery.com

Abu Dhabi International Jewellery & Watch Show Venue: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre The Abu Dhabi International Jewellery & Watch Show (JWS) is an exclusive and high-end jewellery and watch event that features an extensive showcase of exquisite jewellery and timepieces from all over the world. Aimed at the region’s most affluent buyers, the event attracts elite retailers and distributors. www.jws.ae

Tourist | Shopping

SHOPPING Outside the Box

Your Guide to Charming Off-beat Shops in the UAE

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Shopping malls are great, especially when you are in the Emirates. But if you are looking to acquire something fun and funky, then perhaps the mall is not the best place to go shopping.

Here are a few hidden sources for all things fun and funky.

Home & Decor Exotica Exotica is home to unique pieces of furniture and other interesting items which the company's founder, Fani Hollis, collects from her travels in search for the interesting and obscure. At any one time you might find a stock of over 2,000 items to which you are invited to take as much time as you need browsing through.

Umm Suqeim Road, Dubai +971 4 3479332

The Odd Piece The Odd Piece offers an exclusive range of vintage furniture and home accessories, handpicked from around the world by Creative Director, Arwa Hafiz.

Al Wasl Square, Al Hadiqa St., Dubai +971 4 388 3733

Petals This is a hidden gem for antique furnishings and wedding set-ups tucked into a hidden oasis in Al Qouz. The theatrical setting is worthy of note on its own right, adorned with elaborately embroidered chairs to ornate chandeliers.

The Courtyard, Al Qouz, Dubai +971 4 347 3003

Petals

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Bambah

Fashion & Accessories

collection is tightly edited with exclusive pieces by up-and-coming designers and limited edition collaborations.

Citywalk Mall, Al Safa Street, Dubai +971 4 344 1410

Bambah Perfect for those wanting to stand out between the crowd, this new boutique offers unique vintage fashion from the 1930’s to the 1980’s, handpicked from around the world.

Whether you’re looking for that vintage suit, the perfect LBD, a 60’s purse, or ‘The’ pair of sunglasses, Bambah’s got it all.

Jumeirah Beach Rd. +971 50 674 1754

Momentum Momentum specializes in the trade and preservation of unique vintage and contemporary watches that demonstrate the finest traditions of watchmaking. Whether you're looking for that vintage Rolex or a professional to repair or service your watch, Momentum is the go-to place.

The Gate Building, Marble Walk, DIFC +971 4 327 4320

s*uce in the hood ‘s*uce In the Hood’ is a multi-brand fashion concept, housing the coolest crop of superfun, quirky and street-influenced fashion. The

Momentum

s*uce in the hood

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Fann-A-Porter

Arts & Crafts Fann-A-Porter

Iris Noir

Fann-A-Porter is the place to go for carefully collected objects of art in the form of paintings, wearable art, jewellery, home accessories, furniture, and much more.

The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai +971 55 1087 052

Iris Noir is a pop art concept gallery that sells art, fashion, furniture, art gifts and other unique items handmade by designers from around world.

Villa 827-B, Umm Suqeim 3, Jumeirah Rd., Dubai +971 4 338 9378

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Gifts & Souvenirs The Camel Company Enter one of The Camel Company shops and you’ll be welcomed by a huge family of Soft Camel Toys – each looking for a new home. The heritage collection features hand painted designs by artists inspired by the local scenes.

The Dubai Mall +971 4 330 8117

Al Jaber Gallery Al Jaber Gallery is the biggest gift and souvenir chain in UAE specializing in traditional souvenirs and handicrafts that suit every pocket such as mouse rugs, coasters, T-shirts and mugs etc.

The Dubai Mall + 971 4 3398566

The Noble Collection The Noble Collection offers collectors figurines, replicas and other movie memorabilia from blockbuster films.

The Dubai Mall +971 4 330 8911

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Markets Dubai Flea Market Taking place from 8am-1pm every first Saturday of the month (October to May), Dubai Flea Market is a veritable haven for everything used from household items, home appliances, furniture, textiles, ceramics and electrical equipment to toys, books, DVD's, clothes, antiques, accessories, and handcrafts.

Safa Park (Gate 5), Al Wasl Rd., Dubai www.dubai-fleamarket.com

The Ripe Food & Craft Market This food market is for the soul that loves to mingle at a market which smells of the finest seasonal organic produce. It takes place every Saturday at Ripe’s Farm Shop located within the charming The Courtyard in Al Qouz area.

The Courtyard, Al Qouz, Dubai +971 4 379 0441

ARTE Art & Craft Market This art and craft fair features handmade items by local artisans in the UAE, used books, and homemade food items. To join the next ARTE market, visit www.arte.ae for dates, times and locations.

Image credit: ARTE Art & Craft Market

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Attention to Retail

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Sure, the UAE has got plenty of shopping destinations but follow this guide and discover the best retail experiences the region has to offer.

The UAE notches top scores when it comes to shopping but with so many malls to visit, it’s easy to lose your time between the "ordinary" and the "nothing-special".

While there is always a bit of overlap in stores and brands, some malls tend to have their own themes and specialities.

Tourist Magazine has rounded up some of the best malls and shopping destinations giving you the skinny on what makes each one different.

The Dubai Mall Dubai Downtown, Dubai 800-DUBAI-MALL (800 38224 6255) www.thedubaimall.com The Dubai Mall is the leading and most dominant mall in the region. Being the world’s largest and most-visited shopping and leisure destination, The Dubai Mall is home to just about every major fashion brand in the world combined with world-class dining, entertainment and leisure attractions.

Noteworthy shops: Level Shoe District, Galleries Lafayette and Blooming Dales

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Mall of the Emirates Al Barsha, Dubai +971 4 409 9000 www.malloftheemirates.com Mall of the Emirates features an unmatched luxury offering, housing more than 80 of the world’s most renowned designer brands in Fashion Dome and Via Rodeo.

Noteworthy shops: Harvey Nichols, Paris Gallery and Boutique 1

BurJuman Bur Dubai, Dubai +971 4 352 0222 www.burjuman.com BurJuman has one of the finest concentrations of high-fashion luxury brands in Dubai including Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Hermes, Valentino, Dolce and Gabbana, Versace, Fendi, Cartier, and many more.

Noteworthy shops: Saks Fifth Avenue, Hermes and Virgin Megastore

Wafi Mall Oud Metha, Dubai +971 4 324 4555 www.wafi.com One of the most elegant shopping malls in Dubai; Wafi is known for its unique architecture – a modern interpretation of the pyramids – which epic splendour is conveyed through exquisite stained glass, intricate mosaics, carvings and sculptures.

Noteworthy shops: Vertu, Chopard and Petals

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Good to know Opening Hours Shopping malls are open every day from 10am to 10pm.

How to pay You can pay with cash (Emirati Dirham and other major currencies) or with credit card.

Boulevard at Emirates Towers Emirates Towers, Dubai +971 4 319 8732 www.boulevarddubai.com Located at the prestigious Emirates Towers, Boulevard is a luxury shopping complex with international fashion on offer from celebrated designers and couture leaders to speciality and jewellery stores.

Noteworthy shops: Harry Winston, Cartier and 19th Century Antiques

TIP: The best time to shop

in Dubai is in January as prices are slashed down for the Dubai Shopping Festival

The Beach at JBR Al Sufouh, Dubai +971 4 431 0190 www.thebeach.ae Surrounded by water features, The Beach, features a dynamic mix of top brands offering luxury retail and a range of attractions in a distinctive beachfront location.

Noteworthy shops: S*uce-on-Sea, Sephora and Designer's Club

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The Galleria 800-SOWWAH (800-769924) Sowwah Square, Al Maria Island, Abu Dhabi www.thegalleria.ae With spectacular waterfront views, The Galleria offers visitors a host of 130 of the world’s most renowned designer labels and high-end brands including 50 Abu Dhabi ‘firsts’.

Noteworthy shops: Aspinal of London, Boucheron and Marc Jacobs

Yas Mall Yas Mall Yas Island, Abu Dhabi 800-YASMALL (800 927 6255) www.yasmall.ae The biggest shopping mall in Abu Dhabi and the second biggest in the UAE; Yas Mall provides visitors with an exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment offerings enveloped in natural scenery and high skylights avenues. The mall also has a direct link to Ferrari World.

Noteworthy shops: LEGO, Logo’s Rollercoaster Restaurant, House of Fraser

World Trade Centre Mall Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi +971 2 508 2400 www.wtcad.ae Complemented by relaxed terraces and rooftop gardens, WTC Mall is a modern shopping destination that caters to a diverse range of fashion-centric shoppers as it features the region’s first House of Fraser and other retailers that are new to Abu. Noteworthy shops: BCBG, House of Fraser and Karen Millen

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TOP 5 Modern Souqs •Souk Madinat Jumeirah at Al Sufouh, Dubai

Tradition in the Heart of Modernity

•Souk Khan Murjan at Wafi City, Dubai

If you fancy a glimpse of the past, head to one of the modern souks which combine the spirit of the traditional marketplace with the conveniences of modernday shopping centres. These souks make the perfect destinations to shop for traditional goods and souvenirs such as antiques, artefacts, carpets, oil perfumes, spices, traditional clothing and accessories.

•Souk Al Bahar at Downtown Dubai •World Trade Centre Souk at Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi

•Souk Qaryat Al Beri at Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

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arrived in Dubai offering exclusive solutions for exclusive spaces.

SANDALYECI, which means ‘chair maker’ in Turkish, established in 2001 and was first set up to manufacture wooden chairs and tables. Now we’re a laeder brand, manufacturing high quality furniture (indoor and outdoor) with robust design.

The factory with a 27000 m2 covered area in Izmir-Turkey is equipped with high-end technology machinery. Our expertise in hand –crafting is an additional value. Our products are designed and manufactured to obtain durability and strenght in the heavyuse spaces such as hotels, restaurants, bars, coffeee shops, lounges, waiting areas, etc.

We offer a wide range of products (around 800 models) consisting solid wood, upholstered seating and dining groups, aluminum and rattan chairs and tables.

SANDALYECI had completed many projects succesfully in world famous hotels, restaurants, airports, bars and coffee shops in Turkey, Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Middle East, Near East and other regions.

We entered to the world market first in 2010 with Frankfurt showroom, then Almaty and Astana, and since May 2014 we opened our showroom in Dubai. With over 300 family members SANDALYECI is now ready to participate in the exclusive projects in GCC and MENA region. We’re very happy for the huge interest to our products, during the 2 top range exhibitions which we attended in Dubai: INDEX Dubai 2014 and The Hotel Show Dubai 2014.

Cargah Restaurant

Cargah Restaurant

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Issue 2015 Now we have a showroom in JLT and preparing to announce a new huge showroom in the city. We offer exclusive solutions with our professional design and sales team. We have furnished number of restaurants with SANDALYECI products in UAE such as TIKE, Al MUHANNAH, BYBLOS, SELAMLIQUE, LOGMA RESTAURANT, NARENJ AL SHAMS RESTAURANT, etc. And we have ongoing hotel projects in UAE, KSA, KUWAIT. We recognised that being a manufacturer is a big advantage in the sector. This gives us the chance to work on unique projects with customised models.

Fast production, high quality and on-time delivery is our mission.

And our vision is to sustain the leadership position in Europe and Middle East, in manufacturing strong hospitality furniture with premium quality.

The Hotel Show Dubai 2014

Deep Fish Restaurant

Boyalik Hotel

Anemon Hotel

DMCC Dubai | Ismir | Istanbul | Frankfurt | Almaty | Astana PO Box: 126115, Jumeirah Bay Tower X2 Office: 204 & 205, JLT, Dubai - UAE T: +971 4 360 73 29, F: +971 4 360 73 59 dubai@sandalyeci.com, www.sandalyeci.ae

Turkish Airline VIP Lounge

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Bon Voyage

10 Great travel accessories for your next trip Love to travel, but dread the hassle of going through airports and flights? You are not alone. Add these savvy travel accessories to your packing list for a smoother, more pleasant journey.

M&S Luxury Neck Pillow

Swiss Gear RFID Protection Passport Cover

This pillow has a warm side and a cool side for extra comfort and a removable cover so it can be washed. The hanging loop also allows the pillow to be attached to your luggage to make it easier to carry.

Protect your identity from theft and your passport from wear and tear with this smart passport cover.

Bluesmart Carry-on Suitcase Bluesmart is a smart carry-on suitcase that you can control from your phone. From the app on your phone, you can Lock, weigh and track your Bluesmart carry-on.

It can also recharge your mobile devices with a built-in battery!

Victorinox Worldwide Grounded Adapter Plug This universal adaptor is a compact one piece unit with 4 different international plugs with universal AC and USB outlet, providing you a simple way to connect your portable appliances to the electrical outlets in more than 150 countries.

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M&S Luggage Scale Never pay overweight baggage fees again with this highly accurate and extremely dependable digital luggage scale.

Samsonite 4-Dial Combi Lock This TSA approved 4-dial luggage padlock will keep your luggage safe

Kindle e-book Reader This e-book reader is a great substitute for heavy, bulky books and reading material. It uses an electronic ink screen that looks and reads like real paper with no backlighting and no glare.

Samsonite Rain Pro Flat Umbrella With this mini umbrella, rainy days are no longer an inconvenience. The durable umbrella is small enough to fit in your briefcase, backpack or pocket.

Samsonite Carry-on Cabin Clear Bottle Kit

myCharge The Energy Shot A compact portable charger, the Energy Shot will recharge your smartphone, delivering that additional boost when you need it most.

Clear PVC zip-top plastic bag with re-usable, quart-size toiletry containers makes carry-on screening easier.

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Case Closed One of the great joys of travel lies in the preparation, and for many people it is the journey not the destination. As modern travellers, we would all like to find luggage that embodies our style whilst also being practical. Whether cruising the tropics or day-tripping with the family, Tourist rounds up the best luggage to help you carry your belongings in style.

The luxurious Louis Vuitton

With roots in trunk making dating back as far as 1871, Louis Vuitton combines luxury with expert craftsmanship to provide the ultimate in sophisticated luggage. Whether you’re seeking the signature Monogram canvas, personalized details or colourful designs, globetrotters can’t go wrong with one of Louis Vuitton’s travel creations.

Parisian finesse with light as a feather Lipault Launched by French designer François Lipovetsky in 2005, Lipault has become one of France’s leading luggage brands. After years of designing luggage for Air France, Lipovetsky developed Lipault’s signature Collection, Plume, which means “feather” in French. Available in a variety of stylish colours, this luggage is some of the lightest on the market.

They say you can fill it to the brim and beyond and still be well under the weight restrictions imposed by airlines.

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The indestructible Rimowa

Founded in 1898 in Cologne, Rimowa immediately became the top choice for society travellers. In 1937 the son of the company founder launched the first trunk made of lightweight metal, causing a minor revolution in the luggage industry. In 1950 the first case was made from aluminium with the sleek contour that has now become synonymous with the brand. Among international jet setters, the contour cases have become, de rigeur. A symbol of enduring German design, Rimowa is the BMW of suitcases.

The durable Swiss Victorinox

The original Swiss army knife maker Victorinox fits just as much function into its luxury luggage line, but most people don't realize that the company even manufacturers a number of suitcases and luggage pieces. If you fly on a regular basis, a Swiss Army suitcase in the carry-on spinner design might be the best choice for you.

The business travel brand Tumi

Founded in 1975, Tumi takes its name from a Peruvian icon known to its founder from his Peace Corps days in South America.

During the 1980's, Tumi's innovative introduction of soft, ultra-functional, black-onblack ballistic nylon travel bags catapulted the company to its current leadership position.

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Living in the land of Luxury

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The UAE is a fast growing, modern country that offers unlimited potential and opportunity. With 80% of the UAE’s population being expats, the country must be doing something right to attract so many people from all around the world. Although at Tourist Magazine, our reader-focus is on the tourist, indeed we believe that the UAE is one of the world’s most attractive places to live in.

We give you 5 aspects that combine to make settling in the UAE fairly great.

Accessible healthcare

Healthcare in the UAE is on a fast track development, and the country currently stands at number 27 in world health systems ranking of the World Health Organization (WHO).

A major driver to healthcare policy reform has been the introduction of mandatory health insurance for expatriates and their dependents. This has been implemented in some emirates but is expected to eventually be constituted under federal law. Generally however, private health insurance is available and is much less expensive than insurance in many other countries.

Additionally, government-run hospitals, day care centres and healthcare clinics make it widely accessible for residents of the UAE to seek medical consultation and treatment by making it free for UAE nationals in most cases and subsidised for expatriates.

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Diverse education opportunities

The UAE offers a very diverse educational platform which ensures every student, whether a national or an expat, receives the education which qualifies him or her for the challenges of the twenty-first century’s workplace.

Apart from public schools, which offer Ministry of Education curriculum free for nationals, there are many private schools that offer various international curriculums like British, American, Australian, etc. This has proved to be very beneficial for expat as well as nationals students and families interested in pursuing an international degree in the UAE. Furthermore, by establishing state-of-the-art educational districts such as Dubai Knowledge Village, Dubai International Academic City and University City of Sharjah, the UAE has attracted some of the top universities in the world to open campuses which offer degrees and courses in many fields and specializations here in the Emirates. Requirements for admission and fees vary depending on the chosen school and program.

CURRICULUM

SCHOOLS

UNIVERSITIES

British

Repton School Dubai British School GEMS Wellington International School Cambridge International School Regent International School The British School

The British University in Dubai (BUiD) Heriot-Watt University University of Bradford Middlesex University Manchester Business School

American

American School of Dubai American International School Sharjah American International School Universal American School Dubai American Academy American Community School Collegiate American School

American University of Sharjah American University in Dubai American University in the Emirates Michigan State University New York Institute of Technology Rochester Institute of Technology Hult International Business School

Australian

Victoria International School of Sharjah Australian International School Australian School of Abu Dhabi

Murdoch University, Dubai University of Wollongong, Dubai SAE Institute Dubai

Other

Japanese School in Dubai Indian High School Delhi Private School Abu Dhabi International School International School of Choueifat Global Indian International School United International Private School

Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Esmod French Fashion Institute Saint-Petersburg State University Canadian University of Dubai SP Jain School of Global Management Amity University Dubai Institute of Management Technology

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Great investment opportunities

To the prospective investor, the UAE presents an extremely favourable destination and offers great fiscal and regulatory benefits including minimal trade barriers, low Inflation, easy funding from international banks, easy licensing procedures, and a strong appreciating and fully convertible currency.

Starting a company in the UAE has many pros. One, the procedures are simple and streamlined, making it possible for investors to obtain licenses shortly after submitting all requisite documents. Two, industry-specialized free zones across the UAE allow 100% foreign ownership of the company with no need for local sponsor or partner. Three, and perhaps the most appealing, there are no direct taxes on corporate profits or personal income.

However, if you have a pool of money you would like to invest in real estate, the mature and quality-driven property market in the UAE is one of the best markets to invest. The benefits of investing in real estate in the UAE include great rental or re-sale returns, or the benefit of living in the house while it appreciates in value. While Dubai remains the most promising emirate to invest in real estate, it is possible for foreigners to buy property in a number of designated areas across the other emirates, which are also maturing up.

5 things to consider before buying property in the UAE 1. Location 2. Overall property size 3. Developer s and

contractor’s track records

4. Potential return on investment

5. Recurring costs (service

charges)

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Security and justice

The UAE is considered one of the safest countries in the world. According to the global Social Progress Index, which measures the multiple dimensions of social progress and human wellbeing nations offer their citizens, the UAE is the first in low violent crime rate, but of course one must exercise due diligence and common sense to stay out of harm’s way.

Moreover, the UAE’s judicial system is known to implement justice through, transparency, precision and promptness. And with the huge diversity of the people residing in the UAE, the country strives to align its laws and regulations with international practices and standards to provide a comprehensive legal system that caters to the varying needs of its residents.

Repton School 1/2 p

According to the region’s leading job searching site www.bayt.com, the average salary package of an experienced professional ranges between AED 8,000 and AED 40,000, depending on age, experience, and specific expertise.

Image Credit: DTCM

Good employment prospects

The UAE is the Middle East’s economic hub, and working here means working in an exciting and challenging international environment, complemented by the major financial benefit of tax-free personal income.

With many skills and expertise being consistently in demand, it’s easy to find a well-paying employment as long as one has solid professional experience. And there’s enough reason to believe that finding a job opportunity will become even easier over the coming years as since the Emirate of Dubai won the bid to host the world expo in the year 2020, the UAE has seen a healthy growth in the job market which is poised to keep moving up.

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Trouble-Free in the UAE The people of the UAE are open-minded, respectful, hospitable and very keen on explaining their customs to visitors to the country.

However, there are certain things you should be mindful of to avoid causing offence to others. Here are some quick pointers to keep your vacation in the UAE trouble-free.

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Issue 2015 can dress a bit more freely and flaunt those curves, but remember not to linger on the streets and keep the flirtatious dresses for the club only. Nudity of any degree is strictly forbidden and is liable to imprisonment and deportation.

Drunkenness

Dubai has a vibrant nightlife scene. However, try to keep it together and remember that you are in a Muslim country where drunken behavior can get you in trouble. Driving under the influence, like in most countries, is a criminal offence, and the police have a zero tolerance approach to the slightest amount of drunkenness while operating a vehicle. Take a taxicab to avoid trouble. It goes without saying that possession of the slightest bit of the softest drug is an express ticket to serious jail time.

Clothing

Most people dress liberally in the UAE. However, leave the beachwear for the beach and dress more modestly when in public (i.e. streets, shopping malls, parks), making sure your clothing is not revealing, transparent, or displaying obscene or offensive pictures and slogans. The only exception perhaps is within the confines of nightclubs, where you

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HOW TO BEHAVE DURING RAMADAN

During the month of Ramadan, (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar), every healthy Muslim is required to fast from dawn until dusk.

While non-Muslims are free to go about their routine, they are requested to be respectful to those who are fasting. Here are some considerations to practice: DONTs • Don’t wear revealing clothes like shorts, miniskirts or sleeveless outfits in public.

Public Display of Affection

Public display of affection between couples, whether married or not, does not sit well with the local culture. Anything more than holding hands or a peck on the cheek is considered offensive to public decency and is liable to be punished by a fine, and in some cases may lead to imprisonment.

• Don’t eat, drink, chew gum or smoke in public from sunrise time to sunset.

• Don’t sing, dance or play loud music in public.

If you want to listen to music, make sure it cannot be heard outside your car or room or use headphones.

Customs

DOs

When meeting members of the opposite sex, handshakes may not always be welcome so don’t offer your hand unless they offer theirs first.

• Do greet Muslims with “Ramadan Kareem”.

• Do dress conservatively.

Photography

• Do visit an Iftar tent and other Ramadan experiences.

Dubai offers many photographic opportunities but if you are photographing people then the general courtesy of asking for permission should be applied.

Obscenity

The UAE culture is built around good manners and respect to others, and the locals can be easily offended if these values are not shown. Obscene behavior, language, or images are unwelcomed, and can get you in trouble with the authorities if targeted at someone.

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Getting Around The transport systems in the UAE are among the most efficient by international standards, and while some systems are still being developed and improved, public transport will get you anywhere you wish to go, affordably and hassle-free. In addition to that, the grid layout of the UAE makes it easy to navigate.

This guide will help you plan your journey…

By Car

through “Salik”. Salik is an automated toll gate system in Dubai which charges AED 4 every time you pass through. There are currently 6 Salik gates in Dubai, 5 of which are along Sheikh Zayed Road and its extension leading to Sharjah, Al Ittihad Road. All vehicles passing through Salik gates must have a Salik tag placed on the windshield of the car. Rentals usually have Salik tags readily installed but it’s wise to take note of how many times you pass through Salik as the amount will be added to the bill when you drop off the car.

Self-drive is one of the preferred ways to explore the UAE. This is due to the low petrol prices, the availability of rentals that suit all budgets and the guiding signs written in English that mark all highways, streets and major landmarks.

The speed limit on most highways is 100 km/h, and drivers should either have a valid driver's licence from their home country or an International Driving Permit to legally drive in the UAE. When driving in Dubai, you will probably pass

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Tourist | Essentials It’s important to remember that use of seatbelt is mandatory and drivers should only talk on the phone through a hands-free headset to avoid getting a fine. In case of a traffic accident, motorists must call the traffic police by dialling 999 from any phone, and wait on the scene until the accident is reported by the police.

Most emirates have paid parking systems in busy commercial and residential areas. Always look out for signs or parking meters when you park in the city.

A small screen on the meter shows the hours in which you have to pay. The payment varies depending on the duration. 1 hour is AED 2.

Dubai Taxi

By Taxi

Taxis in the UAE are safe, clean and touristfriendly. However, they can be considered a little expensive for long commutes. While each emirate has its own taxi company, there tends to be a slight difference in the fare from one Emirate to another. Generally, the fare depends on the distance travelled but most taxis have a minimum fare of AED 12. An extra charge of AED 4 is added to the fare when passing a Salik gate. Also AED 20 is charged if either going to or passing through Sharjah and other Northern Emirates. Remember to ask the receipt and keep it for any enquires of missing luggage.

A taxi can be booked and dispatched to your location by calling 600 535353 (in Abu Dhabi), 600 525252 (in Sharjah), and 04 208 0808 (in Dubai).

Public Bus

For more information regarding routes, schedules, and pricing, visit the respective website of the city of your departure.

• Abu Dhabi www.dot.abudhabi.ae • Dubai www.rta.ae • Shajrah www.mowasalat.ae

By Bus

Buses are frequent, inexpensive and operate across a large network. To ride the bus in Dubai, you must buy a Nol card at the bus station before boarding.

Like taxis, every emirate has its own bus operator. However, buses also operate between cities.

Nol Card is a smart card that enables you to pay for the use of various transport modes within Dubai. You can use your Nol Card to travel on Dubai's Metro, Buses, Water Buses, as well as pay for RTA's Paid Parking. Nol Cards are available in different types to meet everyone’s needs. The cards can be purchased from vending machines and tickets offices available at almost all metro and bus station. Visit www.nol.ae for full list of vendors.

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THE DUBAI METRO IS THE FIRST URBAN TRAIN NETWORK IN THE ARABIAN PENINSULA.

The intercity bus service provides a convenient mode of transport for a very reasonable cost to visitors and residents. The service allows people to easily move between the emirates via modern and comfortable buses.

For more information regarding routes, schedules, and pricing, visit the respective website of the city of your departure.

Dubai Metro

By Metro

Although Dubai metro is still relativity new, it has quickly become one of the most used modes of transportation among residents and visitors alike.

With two operational lines (Red Line and Green Line) and more to come, the Dubai metro provides seamless and affordable transportation across the City. Running underground and on an elevated railway along Sheikh Zayed Road, the metro stops at 47 stations across the two lines, providing access to the cities prime areas and centres. To ride the metro you must buy a Nol card at the station.

By Tram

Interchanging with three stations of Dubai Metro's Red Line, Al Sufouh Tramway runs 14.5 kilometres along Al Sufouh Road from Dubai Marina to the Burj Al Arab in 30 minutes. The tram is the most recent addition to Dubai’s transportation system.

By Boat

Water Taxi is a marine transit mode. To book a water taxi, dial the toll-free number 8009090, and the Water Taxi will come to the station nearest to your location to ferry you across Dubai Creek and waterways anywhere you might wish. You can hire the Water Taxi at a rate of AED400 per hour for the route of your choice and pay in cash or credit card.

Another marine transport service is the the Abra, which is a more affordable and traditional way of crossing waterways. However, Abras operate only across Dubai Creek, linking Deira and Bur Dubai areas.

Abra operation times are from 5am till 12 midnight, while Abra Route 2 runs 24 hours a day.

Lastly, there is the Waterbus which provides a smooth and safe transit service across Dubai Creek aboard an air-conditioned vessel with ample space and passenger features, including persons with special needs access. The ride is 2 dirhams per trip per person.

Water Taxi

Dubai Tram

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Events 2015 Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Volvo Ocean Race Date: December 12, 2014 to January 03, 2015 Venue: Corniche Breakwater Abu Dhabi Multiple concerts and entertainment offerings come together to celebrate the teams participating in the biggest nautical race around the world during their stopover in Abu Dhabi. www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com

Mubadala World Tennis Championship Date: January 1-3 Venue: Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City An annual tournament that sees six of the world’s top Tennis players vie for a $250,000 prize. www.mubadalawtc.com

Abu Dhabi Golf Championship Date: January 15-18 Venue: Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

One of the biggest events on the European Tour, regularly attracting some of golf’s most famous names. www.abudhabigolfchampionship.com

Gourmet Abu Dhabi Date: February 3-18 Venue: TBA A lifestyle gastronomic extravaganza that marries culture and cuisine. www.gourmetabudhabi.ae

Liwa Challenge Master Trek Date: February 7-15 Venue: Liwa Oasis A gruelling 200km endurance race testing runners’ physical and mental health to the limit will debut in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert in February. www.liwachallenge.com

Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Date: TBA Venue: Yas Marina Circuit A world-class destination for entertainment and F1 racing. www.yasmarinacircuit.com

Tri Yas Date: February 20 Venue: Yas Marina Circuit The UAE’s largest and coolest community triathlon. www.yasmarinacircuit.com

Abu Dhabi International Triathlon Date: TBA Venue: Abu Dhabi International Triathlon, where the world’s greatest take on a pure power course through Abu Dhabi City. www.abudhabitriathlon.com

Red Bull Air Race World Series Date: Feb - March Venue: Abu Dhabi An international air race in which competitors have to navigate a challenging obstacle course to set the fastest time. www.redbullairrace.com

Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Date: March 26 – April 2 Venue: Abu Dhabi One of the world’s most prestigious international cross country rallies; a five-day motorsport spectacule staged across Abu Dhabi. www.abudhabidesertchallenge.com

Abu Dhabi Summer Season Date: TBA Venue: Abu Dhabi Three months of mega entertainment featuring blockbuster film & theatre premieres, top notch international ballets, music concerts, comedy nights, illusionist and circus spectacules, and live kids shows.

Al Ain Aerobatic Show Date: TBA Venue: Al Ain Top aerobatic pilots compete in three disciplines of air racing. Airplanes, helicopters, gliders and wingwalkers will be displaying their amazing aerial skills. www.alainaerobaticshow.com

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Dubai Dubai Shopping Festival Date: January 1 - February 1 Venue: Dubai A one month extravaganza of discounts, competitions, prizes, fireworks and entertainment. www.mydsf.ae

Dubai International Racing Carnival Date: January 8 – February 28 Venue: Meydan A horse racing season incorporating eleven racing events and culminating in the world-famous Dubai World Cup, where the world's best racehorses vie for glory in the richest horse race in the world. www.dubairacingclub.com

Standard Chartered Marathon Date: January 23 Venue: Jumeirah An annual marathon running race held in Dubai. www.dubaimarathon.org

Omega Dubai Desert Classic Date: January 26 – February 1 Venue: Emirates Golf Club A professional golf tournament on the European Tour, held annually since 1989. www.dubaidesertclassic.com

Dubai Food Festival Date: February 8 – 28 Venue: Dubai Anew festival that showcases the city’s staggering array of culinary experiences and cuisines. www.dubaifoodfestival.com

Dubai International Jazz Festival Date: February 25-27 Venue: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre The most popular and most awarded music festival in the Middle East, featuring a unique take on music, art and lifestyle. www.dubaijazzfest.com

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Date: Silver Cup: January 23 – February 6 Gold Cup: February 23 – March 13 Venue: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches The most prestigious international polo tournament in the Middle East which sees the world's best polo teams and players battle it out for the title. www.dubaipologoldcup.com

Dubai Summer Surprises Date: June 15 – July 31 Venue: Dubai Launching promotional campaigns and organizing family entertainment activities to attract families of diverse nationalities to Dubai over the summer. www.dubaievents.ae

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship Date: Womens: February 17 – March 1, Mens: February 24 – March 1 Venue: The Dubai Tennis Stadium A much anticipated Tennis championship and a firm favourite amongst the worlds top-ranked players. dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com

Dubai Latin Festival Emirates Classic Car Festival Date: February 27 – March 3 Venue: Downtown Dubai A classic car show where owners of unique classic cars parade and compete in several categories. emiratesclassiccarfestival.com

Date: March 19-22 Venue: Madinat Jumeirah A four-day event that brings together the Latin dance community, including professional dancers, dance students, and dance instructors under one roof for a weekend filled with shows, competitions and workshops. www.dubailatinfest.com

DP World Tour Championship

Dubai World Cup 2015 Date: March 28 Venue: Meydan World's richest horse race. www.dubaiworldcup.com

Date: TBA Venue: Jumeirah Golf Estates A world-class sporting and social event held annually on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates as the final tournament of the European Tour’s The Race to Dubai where the season leader takes home a bonus pool of $5 million. www.europeantour.com

Dubai Rugby 7's Date: TBA Venue: The Sevens Stadium A three-day rugby extravaganza with awesome entertainment and fantastic fun activities for the whole family. www.dubairugby7s.com

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Exhibitions 2015

GIBTM (Gulf Incentive Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition) Date: March 16-18 Venue: ADNEC A five-star event for the meetings and events industry in the Middle East. www.gibtm.com

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Electronics Shopper Date: March 18-21 Venue: ADNEC One of the biggest consumer electronics exhibitions. www.adeshopper.ae

SOGAT (Sour Oil & Gas Advanced Technology) Date: March 22-26 Venue: Hilton Abu Dhabi An exhibition for companies which deal in the trade of petroleum oil & gas. www.sogat.org

Bride Abu Dhabi Date: January 28-31 Venue: ADNEC Bridal and Fashion exhibition filled with the latest trends in bridal gowns, haute couture, wedding organisers, jewellery, photography, honeymoon destinations, flower designs, wedding cakes and much more. www.thebrideshow.com

Eco Waste Date: January 19-22 Venue: ADNEC An industry exhibition that deals with solid waste management services and solutions. www.ecowaste.ae

Beyond Beauty Arabia Date: January 28-31 Venue: ADNEC The ultimate beauty and spa event, featuring live demonstrations and the latest looks and beauty trends. www.beyondbeautyarabia.com

Abu Dhabi Air Expo Date: February 8-10 Venue: ADNEC The only exhibition dedicated to general aviation in the Middle East. www.adairexpo.com

IDEX (International Defence Exhibi-

International Jewellery and Watch Show Abu Dhabi

tion and Conference) Date: February 22-26 Venue: ADNEC The most strategically important tri-service defence exhibition in the world. www.idexuae.ae

Date: April 8-12 Venue: ADNEC An exclusive and high-end jewellery and watch exhibition. www.jws.ae

NAVDEX (Naval Defence Exhibition)

Date: April 8-12 Venue: ADNEC A comprehensive event for beauty products and services, skin, hair and body care. www.al-hader.com

Date: February 22-26 Venue: ADNEC The region's leading military ship builders' exhibition . www.navdex.ae

Cityscape Abu Dhabi Date: April 21-23 Venue: ADNEC The regions leading businessto-business real estate development and investment exhibition. www.cityscapeabudhabi.com

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Abu Dhabi International Book Fair Date: May 7-13 Venue: ADNEC The fastest growing book fair in the Middle East and North Africa. www.adbookfair.com

Middle East Workboats Date: September 28-30, 2015 Venue: ADNEC An industry exhibition and conference for workboats. www.middleeastworkboats.com

Chic Lady Show Date: September Venue: Al Ain Convention Centre An extraordinary women's beauty services and fashion event that will showcase the latest design collections. www.chicladyexhibition.com

Abu Dhabi Film Festival Date: October – November Venue: Abu Dhabi With the aim of helping to create a vibrant film culture throughout the region, the festival is committed to curating exceptional programs to inspire filmmakers and nurture the growth of the regional film industry. www.abudhabifilmfestival.ae

ADIPEC (Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference) Date: November Venue: ADNEC A meeting place of the international oil and gas community. www.adipec.com

SIAL Middle East Date: November Venue: ADNEC The region’s event for the food, drink, hospitality, and foodservice industries. www.sialme.com

Emirates International Date Palm Festival Date: November Venue: ADNEC The festival celebrates the culture, tradition and heritage of the date fruit and the countries that produce it across the world. www.datepalmfestival.net

Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition Date: September 9-12 Venue: ADNEC A national event featuring auctions, saluki beauty contests, art competitions and traditional hunting and equestrian activities. www.adihex.net

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Abu Dhabi Art Fair Date: November Venue: Saadiyat Cultural District A platform for modern and contemporary art and public programmes, bringing together a selection of leading art galleries from across the world. www.abudhabiartfair.ae

International Real Estate Show Date: November Venue: ADNEC The only real estate event in Abu Dhabi targeted at the final consumer rather than at trade visitors. www.realestateshow.ae

Tourist | Essentials

Dubai Arab Plast Date: January 10-13 Venue: DICEC An international plastic and rubber industry trade show and conference www.arabplast.info

Metal Middle East Date: January 10-13 Venue: DICEC An international trade fair for the metal industry. www.metal-middle-east.com

Tekno Tube Arabia Date: January 10-13 Venue: DICEC An international trade fair for the tube and pipe industries. www.tekno-arabia.com

Arabia Essen Welding & Cutting Date: January 10-13 Venue: DICEC Offers the western joining, cutting and surfacing industry an optimum platform to position itself in the market. www.arabia-essen-welding-cutting.com

Gulfood Date: February 8-12 Venue: DICEC One of the most important food, drink and hospitality exhibitions worldwide. www.gulfood.com

Dubai Food Carnival Date: February 12-14 Venue: Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi A feast of food, entertainment and family fun. www.dubaifoodcarnival.com

Dubai International Boat Show Date: March 3-7 Venue: Dubai International Marine Club The Dubai International Boat Show is the undisputed leader, uniting high-end buyers and world-class suppliers from the most lucrative regions in the world. www.boatshowdubai.com

MEDLAB Dubai Date: January 26-29 Venue: DICEC The only opportunity in the Middle East for professionals to come together, discuss and find out about the latest findings occurring in labs. www.medlabme.com

Sign & Graphic Imaging Date: January 11-13 Venue: DICEC Specialized event dedicated to the Middle East’s signage, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industries. www.signmiddleeast.com

Intersec Trade Fair And Conference Date: January 18-20 Venue: DICEC An international meeting platform for security, safety and protection industries. www.intersecexpo.com

Arab Health Date: January 26-29 Venue: DICEC An exihbition that deals with all the aspects of the healthcare industry in the Middle East. www.arabhealthonline.com

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AIME (Aircraft Interiors Middle East ) Date: February 2-3 Venue: DICEC The ideal platform for aircraft interiors suppliers and operators to network and establish relationships in the Middle East. www.aime.aero MRO Middle East Date: February 2-3 Venue: DICEC The leading aviation maintenance event in the region serving as a hub for business growth, knowledge transfer, and technology advancement! www.aviationweek.com

Issue 2015

Art Dubai Date: March 18-21 Venue: Madinat Jumeirah The biggest art fair for collectors, artists and art professionals in the Middle East and North Africa. www.artdubai.ae

AEEDC Dubai

Solar Middle East

DUPHAT

Date: February 2-3 Venue: DICEC The pioneering and largest dental event in the Middle East and North Africa region www.aeedc.com

Date: March 2-4 Venue: DICEC An event that aim to propagate the need of utilizing the solar power as one of the main sources of energy for domestic as well as industrial purpose. www.solarmiddleeast.ae

CABSAT

GESS (Gulf Educational Supplies & Solutions) Date: February 24-26 Venue: DICEC The only exhibition in the region to cover the entire spectrum of educational supplies and solutions www.gesseducation.com

Dubai International Horse Fair Date: March Venue: DICEC The finest equestrian business event in the Middle East. www.dihf.ae

Paperworld Middle East Date: March 2-4 Venue: DICEC A trade fair for office stationery. www.paperworldme.com

Playworld Middle East

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature Date: March 3-7 Venue: InterContinental Hotel DFC A festival where famous authors and the public meet for debates, readings and workshops. An exciting fringe programme aimed at children reinforces the festival's strong educational remit. www.emirateslitfest.com

Dubai Anaesthesia Date: March 5-7 Venue: Mohammed Bin Rashid Academic Medical Center, DHCC A conference that brings together internationally acclaimed healthcare specialists and professionals to tackle the developments in Anaesthesia and Perioperative Medicine. www.dubaianaesthesia.com

Date: March 2-4 Venue: DICEC An exhibition for kids toys, games and lifestyle. www.playworldme.com

Date: March 10-12 Venue: DICEC An international pharmaceuticals conference and exhibition www.duphat.ae

Date: March 10-12 Venue: DICEC The Middle East's largest digital media and satellite expo. www.cabsat.com

Sikka Date: March Venue: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood The first annual initiative of its kind to support and showcase Emirati and Dubai-based artistic talent. www.sikka.ae

The Retail Show Middle East Date: March 12-14 Venue: DICEC A showcase of new retail technology in the Middle East. www.terrapinn.com

Taste of Dubai Date: March 12-14 Venue: Dubai Media City The greatest restaurant and music festival in the UAE. www.tasteofdubaifestival.com

Middle East Electricity Date: March 2-4 Venue: DICEC A Meeting place for industry professionals in the power generation, lighting, water, nuclear and renewable energy industries. www.middleeastelectricity.com

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Tourist | Essentials

Middle East Film & Comic Con Date: April 9-11 Venue: DWTC The leading consumer event for fans of cult entertainment and popular culture in the Middle East. www.mefcc.com

Arablab

Cards & Payments Middle East

Design Days Dubai

Date: March 12-14 Venue: DICEC The Middle East's largest smart cards and payments conference and exhibition. www.terrapinn.com

Date: March 16-20 Venue: Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai A fair dedicated to collectible and limited edition furniture and design objects. www.designdaysdubai.ae

E Commerce Show Middle East

Middle East Rail

Date: March 12-14 Venue: DICEC An show that helps businesses build, enhance and deliver their ecommerce strategy. www.terrapinn.com

Date: March 17-18 Venue: DICEC Largest rail exhibition and conference attracting government, rail operators, transport authorities and world-class solution providers. www.terrapinn.com

Middle East Coatings Show Date: March 16-18 Venue: DICEC A dedicated event for materials suppliers and equipment manufacturers in the coatings industry. www.coatings-group.com

AGRA ME Date: March 16-18 Venue: DICEC The region's leading agribusiness trade event. www.agramiddleeast.com

VET ME Date: March 16-18 Venue: DICEC The Middle East's premier veterinary trade exhibition and conference. www.vetmiddleeast.com

Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship Date: March 19-21 Venue: DICEC A competition for purebred Arabian horses, showcasing their beauty, agility and heritage www.diahc.ae

Dubai Derma Date: April 7-9 Venue: DICEC An exhibition dedicated to practitioners, specialists, manufacturers and distributors in the field of dermatology, skin care and laser. www.dubaiderma.com

196

Date: March 23-26 Venue: DICEC One of the most influential laboratory and instrumentation events in the world. www.arablab.com

Beyond Beauty Arabia Date: March 25-28 Venue: DICEC The ultimate consumer exhibition for beauty and spa products. www.beyondbeautyarabia.com

DIHAD (Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development Conference Exhibition) Date: March 24-26 Venue: DICEC A confrence and expo that contributes to the enhancement of international humanitarian aid and development assistance. www.dihad.org

Issue 2015

IECM (International Emergency and Catastrophe Management Conference & Exhibition) Date: March 24-26 Venue: DICEC An event that focuses on issues faced during emergencies through new practices, methodologies and case studies. www.emergency.ae Commercial Vehicles Middle East Date: March 24-26 Venue: DICEC The region's only event dedicated to commercial vehicles, parts and services. www.commvehicles.com

The Bride Dubai Date: March 25-28 Venue: DICEC The largest bridal exhibition in the Middle East. www.thebrideshow.com

Arabian Travel Market Date: May 4-7 Venue: DICEC The industry´s leading travel and tourism exhibition dedicated to unlocking the business potential within the Middle East region. www.arabiantravelmarket.com

WETEX (Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition) Date: April 21-23 Venue: DICEC Provides avenue for industry leaders to keep abreast of the latest developments in the Gulf region in the field of Water, Energy and Environment, www.wetex.ae

Obs-Gyne Exhibitions

Gulf Print & Pack

Date: March 29-31 Venue: DICEC This unique show gives exhibitors the chance to interact with leading obstetricians and gynaecologists. www.obs-gyne.com

Date: April 13-15 Venue: DICEC A dedicated event for commercial and package printing in the Middle East and North Africa. www.gulfprintpack.com

International Property Show

Aluminium Middle East

Date: March 29-31 Venue: DICEC An International platform that opens the door for global property investment and development opportunities worldwide. www.internationalpropertyshow.ae

Date: April 14-16 Venue: DICEC The leading exhibition for aluminium products, technologies and investments in the Middle East. www.aluminium-middleeast.com

Outdoor Design & Build Show

Date: April 14-16 Venue: DICEC The region’s leading and only dedicated business-to-business meeting place for the wood, wood accessories and woodworking machinery industry. www.dubaiwoodshow.com

Date: April 13-15 Venue: DICEC An event which focuses on the design and build for all private and public spaces - including public parks, urban areas, hotels, schools, sport venues and major residential projects. www.theoutdoorshow.ae

Dubai Woodshow

GETEX Spring (Gulf Education and Training Exhibition) Date: April 14-16 Venue: DICEC An event which focuses on bringing higher education options from around the world to students in the Middle East. www.mygetex.com Otolaryngology Congress Date: April 19-21 Venue: Madinat Jumeirah This gives exhibitors the chance to interact with leading otolaryngology surgeons and practitioners. www.me-oto.com

197

Tourist | Essentials

Dubai Entertainment Amusement and Leisure Show Date: April 19-21 Venue: DICEC The Middle East’s annual focal point for all stakeholders in the amusement industry looking for a successful entry or greater growth in the region’s markets www.dealmiddleeastshow.com

GISEC

PALME Middle East

Date: May 26-28 Venue: DICEC The largest international trade fair for beauty products, hair, fragrances and wellbeing in the Middle East. www.gulfbeautyexpo.com

Arab Oil & Gas

Date: June 1-3 Venue: DICEC An exhibition featuring the latest innovations and technologies in hospital design. www.hospitalbuild-me.com

(Gulf Information Security Expo & Conference) Date: April 21-23 Venue: DICEC An exhibition concentrating on cuttingedge safety solutions. www.gisec.ae

Date: May 17-19 Venue: DICEC An international trade exhibition for onshore and offshore oil, gas and petrochemical industries serving the Middle East and beyond. www.ogsonline.com

Airport Show

Index Exhibition

Date: May 10-12 Venue: DICEC A show devoted exclusively to airport construction, operations, technology and services. www.theairportshow.com

Beautyworld Middle East

Date: May 11-13 Venue: DICEC An event dedicated to the ever growing professional audio, lighting, music, audio visual and entertainment industries. www.palme-middleeast.com

Date: May 18-21 Venue: DICEC The Middle East and North Africa’s largest and most diverse international design exhibition. www.indexexhibition.com

Hospital Build ME

Automechanika Middle East Date: June 2-4 Venue: DICEC An exhibition for the latest in the automotive aftermarket industry. www.automechanikame.com

Hardware+Tools Middle East Date: June 3-5 Venue: DICEC The region's international trade fair for tools, hardware, materials and machinery. www.hardwaretoolsme.com

Middle East Event Show Date: June 9-10 Venue: DICEC The perfect sourcing and networking platform for events and entertainment suppliers to connect with buyers in the Middle East. www.me-eventshow.com

Dubai Sports World Date: June 10 – August 30 Venue: DICEC Summer's ultimate indoor mixed sports arena. www.dubaisportsworld.ae

Fashion Forward Date: October Venue: Madinat Jumeirah A fashion event that highlights strengths, inspires and nurtures industry growth and its wealth of talent, with the ultimate goal of driving forward the entire fashion industry in the region. www.fashionforward.ae

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Issue 2015

Dubai International Motor Show

Modhesh World

Date: November Venue: DICEC The Middle East’s largest automotive show. www.dubaimotorshow.com

Date: Jun-Aug Venue: DICEC The best destination for family entertainment during the summer in Dubai. www.modheshworld.com

Ramadan Night Market Date: July Venue: DICEC A market which hosts a number of retailers from across the world, offering a diverse variety of products. www.ramadannightmarket.com

Paper Arabia

Gulf Glass

Date: September Venue: DICEC Middle East's only event for the paper industry. www.paperarabia.com

Date: September 14-16 Venue: DICEC A glass machinery, equipment, and technology Exhibition. www.glassinthegulf.com

Cityscape Global

Private Label Middle East

GulfSol

Date: September Venue: DICEC An essential business-to-business networking exhibition and conference for emerging real estate markets. www.cityscapeglobal.com

Date: September Venue: DICEC The region's only international ownbrand FMCG, private label and contract manufacturing exhibition. www.privatelabelmiddleeast.com

The Hotel Show Date: September Venue: DICEC The region’s number one hospitality event. www.thehotelshow.com

Date: September 14-16 Venue: DICEC An exhibition dedicated to Solar and PV. www.gulfsol.com

Materials Handling Middle East Date: September 14-16 Venue: DICEC A showcase of latest material handling and logistics innovations. www.materials-handling-dubai.com

Gitex Shopper Date: October 3-10 Venue: DICEC The biggest and the best consumer electronics retail platform with power retailers and world class brands. www.gitexshopperdubai.com

Dubai World Game Expo Date: October Venue: DICEC The largest event for video games in the Middle East & North Africa www.gameexpo.ae

Gitex Technology Week Date: October 18-22 Venue: DICEC One of the largest and most important ICT events in the Middle East; the event continually identifies the hottest global technology trends. www.gitex.com

199

Tourist | Essentials Image Credit: Dubai Air Show

Dubai Air Show Date: November 8-12 Venue: Dubai World Central The biggest aviation event in the Middle East, connecting aviation professionals across all areas of the industry to facilitate successful global trade. www.dubaiairshow.aero

Middle East Exclusive Date: November Venue: DICEC A travel retail, duty free and luxury goods exhibition. www.middleeastexclusive.com

Light Middle East Date: November Venue: DICEC An international trade event for urban, urchitectural and retail lighting solutions. www.lightme.net

Sweets & Snacks Middle East Date: November Venue: DICEC A confectionery and snack food trade exhibition. www.sweetsmiddleeast.com

Dubai International Jewellery Week

Sharjah

Date: December Venue: DICEC A show that links jewellery buyers with hundreds of international brands, regional distributors, retailers, and boutique outlets. www.jewelleryshow.com

Steelfab

TOC Container Supply Chain

Perfect Wedding

Date: December Venue: DICEC The event for people who own, move and handle containerised cargo across the Middle East. www.tocevents-me.com

Date: January 26-29 Venue: Expo Centre, Sharjah A trade show for the metal working, metal manufacturing and steel fabrication industry. www.steelfabme.com

Date: March 4-7 Venue: Expo Centre A platform for wedding planners to showcase their products and services. www.sharjahweddingshow.com

The Big 5 Show Date: November Venue: DICEC The biggest building and construction show in the Middle East. www.thebig5.ae

Dubai International Brand and Licensing Fair Date: November 3-4 Venue: DICEC The Middle East’s only brand licensing marketplace. www.licensingdubai.ae

My Content Date: November 3-4 Venue: DICEC The leading international entertainment content and media marketplace in the MENA region. www.mycontent.ae

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Issue 2015

Green Middle East Date: October 6-10 Venue: Expo Centre An exhibition for technology, equipment and products that go into environment conservation and protection. www.green-middleeast.com

Tuning Show

Ramadan Fair

Date: March 4-7 Venue: Expo Centre The Middle East's premier exhibition showcasing the latest trends and technologies in car customization. www.memts.com

Date: June 25 - July 16 Venue: Expo Centre A multi-product consumer fair and family entertainment event. www.ramadanfair.ae

Mideast Watch & Jewellery Show Date: March 31 - April 14 Venue: Expo Centre The Middle East's premier bi-annual exhibition showcasing the latest design and trends in watch, gold, precious stones and diamonds. www.mideastjewellery.com

Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival!

Date: April 22 - May 2 Venue: Expo Centre A festival tha brings together some of the world’s best children’s authors. www.scrf.ae

Mideast Watch & Jewellery Show Date: June 25 - July 16 Venue: Expo Centre The Middle East's premier bi-annual exhibition showcasing the latest design and trends in watch, gold, precious stones and diamonds. www.mideastjewellery.com

Sharjah International Book Fair Date: November 4-14 Venue: Expo Centre An international book fair organized by Sharjah's Department of Culture & Information of Sharjah. www.sharjahbookfair.com

Kitchen Equipment & Technology Exhibition Middle East Date: December 7-9 Venue: Expo Centre The only show in the region that dedicated to kitchen equipment. www.kitchenequipme.com

Halal Middle East Date: December 7-9 Venue: Expo Centre An international platform to explore and discuss emerging markets, trends, issues and challenges in the Halal Food industry. www.halalfoodme.com

Chinese Commodities Fair Sharjah Date: December 7-9 Venue: Expo Centre A platforms for sourcing Chinese products into the Middle East. www.ccfs.ae

Middle East Motor Awards Date: March 12 Venue: Expo Centre Middle East Motor Awards is one of a kind in the region and is set to continue its unique distinction as the most credible and definitive automotive awards in the Middle East. www.middleeastmotorawards.com

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Tourist | Essentials

DIRECTORY Hospitals & Pharmacies

Abu Dhabi

Delma Hospital

Al Mafraq Hospital +971 2 501 1111 www.mafraqhospital.ae

Corniche Hospital +971 2 672 4900 www.cornichehospital.ae

Al Rahba Hospital +971 2 506 4444 www.alrahba.ae

Madinat Zayed Hospital +971 2 884 4444 www.seha.ae

Ghayathi Hospital +971 2 874 1666 www.seha.ae

Marfa Hospital +971 2 883 5000 www.seha.ae

Al Sila Hospital +971 2 872 1555 www.seha.ae

+971 2 445 5477 www.aemcare.com

+971 4 273 3333 www.belhoulspeciality.com

Belhoul European Hospital +971 4 345 4000 www.belhouleuropean.com

Goverment Hospital

Private Hospital Sheikh Khalifa Medical +971 2 819 0000 www.skmc.ae

Belhoul Speciality Hospital

Dubai

+971 2 878 1888 www.seha.ae

Goverment Hospital City

American European Medical Center

Dubai Hospital

Dar Al Shifaa

+971 4 219 5000 www.dha.gov.ae

+971 2 641 6999 www.daralshifaa.net

Rashid Hospital

Al Noor Hospital

+971 4 219 1000 www.dha.gov.ae

800 55666 www.alnoorhospital.com

Latifa Maternity & Paediatric Hospital

Al Salama Hospital

+971 4 219 3000/ +971 4 324 1111 www.dha.gov.ae

+971 2 696 6777 www.alsalamahospital.com

NMC Specialty Hospital 800 662 / +971 2 633 2255 www.nmc.ae

Ahalia Hospital

+971 4 349 6666 www.emirateshospital.ae

International Modern Hospital +971 4 406 3000 www.imh.ae

Iranian Hospital

+971 4 814 7000 www.dha.gov.ae

Lifeline Hospital LLC

+971 2 633 5522 www.lifelineauh.com

Private Hospital

Burjeel Hospital

Aster Hospital – Dubai

+971 2 508 5555 www.burjeel.com

+971 4 398 8799 www.asterhospital.com

Universal Hospital

American Hospital

+971 2 599 9555 / 800 555 555 www.universalhospitals.com

+971 4 336 7777 www.ahdubai.com

+971 4 8845666 800 HOSPITAL www.lifeline.ae

MedCare Hospital LLC +971 4 4079 100 / 101 www.medcarehospital.com

NMC Specialty Hospital 800 6624 / +971 4 267 9999 www.nmc.ae

Neuro-Spinal Hospital +971 4 315 7777 www.nshdubai.com

Mediclinic City Hospital +971 4 435 9999 / 800 843 2489 www.mediclinic.ae

Emergency Numbers

999

Emirates Hospital – Dubai

+971 4 344 0250 www.ihd.ae

+971 4 271 0000 albarahahospital.8m.com

Lifeline Hospital

+971 4 707 2222 www.csh.ae

Hatta Hospital

Al Baraha Hospital

+971 2 626 2666 www.ahaliagroup.com

Canadian Specialist Hospital

997

998

Mediclinic Welcare Hospital +971 4 282 7788 www.mediclinic.ae

Zulekha Hospital +971 4 267 8866 / 600 52 4442 www.zulekhahospitals.com

202

Issue 2015

Airlines

Pharmacies Aster Pharmacy +971 4 440 0500

Bin Sina Pharmacy Dubai Festival City +971 4 232 9757

Boots Pharmacy Dubai Mall +971 4 339 9383

Life Healthcare Group

Aeroflot Russian Airlines

+971 4 344 1122

+971 4 222 2245 www.aeroflot.com

Marina Pharmacy Marina Walk

Aerosvit Ukranian Airlines

+971 4 366 3430

+971 4 221 1176 (Al Majid Travel) www.aerosvit.com

Super Care Pharmacy +971 4 350 4500

AeroTech Aviation (Eastern Skyjets) +971 4 2994884 +971 4 299 5811 www.easternskyjets.com

African Express Airways +971 6 559 3816 www.africanexpress.co.ke

Afriqiyah Airways +971 4 3978962 www.air-afriqiyah.com

Air Algerie +971 4 295 9060 www.airalgerie.dz

Air Arabia

Sharjah Goverment Hospital Al Qassimi Hospital +971 6 538 6444

Kuwaiti Hospital +971 6 524 2111

Private Hospital

GMC Medical & Dental Specialty Centre Sharjah

+971 6 558 0000 +971 2 631 5888 www.airarabia.com

+971 6 535 8111 www.gmchospital.com

Air Astana

+971 6 575 8000 www.nmc.ae

+971 4 316 6572 +971 2 57 57025 Dnata Travel Centre www.airastana.com

Royal Hospital

Air Berlin

New Medical Centre

+971 4 214 6977 +971 4 214 6975 www.airberlin.com

+971 6 545 2222 www.royalhospitaluae.com

Sharjah Corniche Hospital

Air China

Air India +971 4 221 6789 +971 4 216 1846 www.airindia.com

Air Serbia +971 2 599 8416 +971 2 599 8586 www.airserbia.com

Air Seychelles Asian Air Travel and Tourism +971 4 286 8008 Omeir Travel Agency +971 2 611 8640 www.airseychelles.com

airBaltic +971 2 575 7025 +971 2 491 5288 AlbadieTravel Agency www.airbaltic.com

Airblue Limited +971 4 295 9696 +971 6 563-2121 Global Wide International Travel Tours and Cargo LCC www.airblue.com

Alitalia +971 224 4281 www.alitalia.com

Armavia Airline +971 266 0122 www.armavia.it

Atlas Air Worldwide +971 4 299 7634 +971 506 580 098 www.atlasair.com

Austrian Airline +971 4 211 2538 to 42 www.austrian.com

Azerbaijan Airlines +971 4 295 7114 +971 4 295 6860 www.azal.az

+971 6 575 1222 sharjahcornichehospital.com

+971 4 271 8555 www.airchina.com

Zulekha Hospital

Air France

+971 6 561 9999 www.alzahra.com

600 52 4442 +971 6 565 8866 www.zulekhahospitals.com

+971 4 602 5446 / 800 4555 Flying Blue www.airfrance.ae

Central Private Hospital LLC

University Hospital Sharjah

Air India Express

Biman Bangladesh Airlines

+971 6 563 9900 www.centralprivatehospital.ae

+971 6 505 8555 www.uhs.ae

+971 4 216 5828/29 +971 4 266 6950 www.airindiaexpress.in

+971 4 203 2029 DNATA www.biman-airlines.com

Al Zahra Hospital Sharjah

203

Bahrain Air +971 4 239 9921 en.bahrainair.net

Tourist | Essentials

British Airways

Etihad Airways

+971 2 611 8600 +971 4 307 5000 www.britishairways.com

+971 2 5110000 www.etihad.com

Cathy Pacific Airways

+971 2 676 0900/971 4 397 8434 www.finnair.com

+971 4 204 2888 www.cathaypacific.com

China Eastern Airlines +971 4 254 5448 www.flychinaeastern.com

China Southern Airlines +971 4 221 8888 www.csair.com

CSA Czech Airlines +971 4 294 56 66 +971 4 295 75 02 Al Ghaith and Al Moosa Travel Agency www.czechairlines.com

Cyprus Airlines +971 4 221 4455 Nasser Air Travel & Shipping Agencies www.cyprusair.com

Czech Airlines +971 2 491 5288 GSA Al Badie Travels www.czechairlines.com

Daallo Airlines +971 4 299 4485 www.daallo.com

Delta Airlines +971 2 671 3033 +971 4 397 0118 Sharaf Travel L.L.C. www.delta.com

Egypt Air +971 263 44777 +971 4 230 6666 www.egyptair.com

Eritrean Airlines +971 4 282 1522 Sharaf Cargo LLC www.eritrea.be

Ethiopian Airline 800035702401 +971 4 223 6639/7963 Extn 4 www.flyethiopian.com

Finn Air

Flydubai +971 600 544 445 www.flydubai.com

Garuda Indonesia +971 2 633 8700 www.garuda-indonesia.com

Gulf Air +971 4 271 6207 | +971 2 651 6888 www.gulfair.com

Hainan Airlines China +971 4 359 5000 global.hnair.com

Indigo +971 4 355 7355 Al Rais Travel and Shipping Agencies goindigo.in

Jat Airways +971 4 352 0300 www.jat.com

Jazeera Airways +971 4 224 4464 www.jazeeraairways.com

Jet Airways (India) +971 4 203 2022 +971 2 611 8668 www.jetairways.com

Air Kazakhstan +971 4 299 4446 Dnata www.airkaz.com

Kabo Air +971 4 222 2122 +971 50 534 2500 Al-Shamsi Travels & Tourism www.kaboair.com

Kam Air +971 4 360 7201 www.kamair.com

Kenya Airways +971 4 229 2000 www.kenya-airways.com

Kingfisher Airlines +971 4 404 5885 www.flykingfisher.com

KLM - Royal Dutch Airlines 800 556/+971 4 602 5444 www.klm.com

Korean Air +971 2 633 8700 +971 4 337 7003 800 017 862 www.koreanair.com

Kuwait Air

M.E.A. - Middle East Airlines +971 2 622 6300 +971 4 223 7080 www.mea.com.lb

Mahan Air +971 4 299 1884 www.mahan.aero

Malaysia Airlines +971 4 297 7722 +971 2 645 4050 Alrais Travel www.malaysiaairlines.com

+971 2 575 7092 +971 4 228 1106 www.kuwaitairways.com

Midex Airlines

Lufthansa

Mihin Lanka

+971 2 639 4640 +971 4 373 9100 www.lufthansa.com

+971 4 358 5353/ 800 64446 Trident Travels LLC ww.mihinlanka.com

204

+971 4 2146808 www.midexairlines.com

Issue 2015

Nas Air

SAS

Tarom Romanian Air

+971 4 355 0033 Al Rais Travel www.flynas.com

+971 4 448 7600 +971 2 657 3477 www.flysas.com

Nepal Airlines

Saudi Airlines

+971 4 295 9309 www.nepalairlines.com.np

+971 4 221 4000 +971 2 635 1400 Algaith Almoosa Travel Agency www.saudiairlines.com

+971 4 221 1176 +971 4 221 1849 Al Majid Travel Agency & Tourism www.tarom.ro

Thai Airways

Embassies & Consulates

+971 2 621 2900 | +971 4 268 1701 www.thaiairways.com

Embassies

Scat Airlines

Transaero Airlines

Pakistan Intl Airlines

+971 50 624 0839 www.scat.kz

+971 2 447 2666 www.afghanembassy-uae.com

8000-441-1270 www.piac.com.pk

Shaheen Air Intl

+ 971 4 299 7924 Abda Cargo Services LLC www.transaero.com

Oman Air +971 2 632 3637 +971 4 351 8080 www.omanair.com

Philippine Airlines +971 4 316 6632 (DNATA) www1.philippineairlines.com

+971 4 295 7373 +971 4 216 1866 www.shaheenair.com

Siberia Airlines

+971 4389 8111 (DNATA) www.qantas.com.au

+971 4 295 6295 +971 4 295 6259 www.s7.ru

Qatar Airways

Singapore Airlines

Qantas Airways

Tunis Air +971 4 221 1176 +971 4 222 2007 www.tunisair.com

Turkish Airlines +971 2 626 1010 +971 4 444 0999 www.turkishairlines.com

+971 2 622 1110 +971 4 316 6888 www.singaporeair.com

Turkmenistan Airlines

RAK Airways

Sirlankan Airlines

Ukraine Intl Airlines

+9717 2075000 www.rakairways.com

+971 2 633 7125 Atlas Travels and Tourism & Transport www.srilankan.com

+971 2 613 5003 | +971 4 231 9921 www.qatarairways.com

Royal Brunei Airlines +971 4 334 4884 www.flyroyalbrunei.com

Royal Jordanian Airlines +971 2 627 5084 +971 4 294 4188 www.rj.com

Safi Airways +971 4 295 1040 www.safiairways.com

Saheen Air International +971 4 295 7373 www.shaheenair.com

Somon Air (Tajikistan) +971 56 3893438 +971 4 393 6800 Orient Travel www.somonair.com

Swiss International Airlines +971 4 381 6100 www.swiss.com

Tajikistan Airlines +971 50 435 7805 www.tajikair.tj

Emirates Airlines 600 55 55 55 www.emirates.com

+971 2 6327100 www.turkmenairlines.com

+971 4 406 0530 www.flyuia.com

United Airways

Afghanistan

Albania +971 2 658 2505 +971 55 871 9858 albanianembassyuae.com

Angola +971 2 447 7042 www.adangola.com

Armenia +971 2 444 4196 +971 2 444 4128 uae.mfa.am

Australian +971 2 401 7500 www.uae.embassy.gov.au

Austrian +971 2 694 4999 www.bmeia.gv.at

+971 4 294 0099 Al-Naboodah Travel www.uabdl.com

Azerbaijan

United Airways

Kingdom of Bahrain

+971 4 272 7640 Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism Agencies LLC www.uabdl.com

Ural Air +971 4 335 2433 www.uralairlines.ru

+971 2 666 2848 www.azembassy.ae +971 2 665 7500 www.mofa.gov.bh

Bangladesh +971 2 446 5100 www.bdembassyuae.org

Belarus

Uzbekistan Airways

+971 2 445 3399 uae.mfa.gov.by

+971 6 572 5732 +971 4 282 2199 www.uzairways.com

Belgium

Virgin Atlantic

+971 2 631 9449 +971 50 441 3460 www.diplomatie.be/abudhabi

+971 4 406 0600 www.virgin-atlantic.com

Belize

Virgin Australia 8000 612 002 www.virginaustralia.com

205

+971 2 443 7477

Brazil +971 2 632 0606 abudhabi.itamaraty.gov.br

Tourist | Essentials

Canada

Indonesia

Luxembourg

Oman

+971 2 694 0300 www.canadainternational.gc.ca

+971 2 445 4448 www.indonesianembassy.ae

+971 2 491 2446 abudhabi.mae.lu

+971 2 463 3333 www.mofa.gov.om

Chile

Ireland

Malaysia

Philippines

+971 2 447 2022 www.chile-uae.com

+971 2 495 8200 www.embassyofireland.ae

+971 2 448 2775 www.kln.gov.my

+971 2 639 0006 www.philembassy.ae

China

Italy

Maldives

Poland

+971 2 443 4276 +971 2 447 4742 ae.china-embassy.org

+971 2 443 5622 www.ambabudhabi.esteri.it

+971 2 674 0200

+971 2 446 5200 abuzabi.msz.gov.pl

Colombia

Japan

+971 2 558 0088 embamex.sre.gob.mx/emiratosarabesunidos

Portugal

+971 2 443 5696 www.uae.emb-japan.go.jp

Jordan

Morocco

+971 2 509 9000 www.jordanembassy.ae

+971 2 443 3973 www.moroccan-emb.com

Qatar

Kazakhstan

Netherlands

+971 2 449 8778 www.kazembemirates.net

+971 2 695 8000 uae.nlembassy.org

Kenya

Nepal

+971 2 666 6300 www.kenyaembassy.ae

+971 2 634 4767 www.nepalembassyuae.org

Korea

New Zealand

+971 2 643 9122 +971 2 643 9144 are.mofa.go.kr

+971 2 441 1222 www.nzembassy.com

+971 2 679 6696 embajada.gov.co

Cyprus +971 2 665 4480 www.ctcdubai.org

Czech Republic +971 2 678 2800 www.mzv.cz/abudhabi

Denmark +971 2 441 0104 fae.um.dk/en

Djibouti +971 2 633 0160

Dominican Republic

+971 2 650 5541 www.embportugal-uae.com

+971 4 449 3300 www.mofa.gov.qa

Romania +971 2 445 9919 adudhabi.mae.ro

Russian +971 2 672 1797 www.uae.mid.ru

Saudi Arabia +971 2 444 5700 www.mofa.gov.sa

Nigerian

Senegal

+971 2 447 7146

+971 2 443 1503 www.nigerian-embassy.com

+971 2 633 6929 www.diplomatie.gouv.sn

Lebanon

Norway

Seychelles

+971 2 449 2100 www.lebembassyuae.com

+971 2 403 8400 www.norway.ae

+971 2 491 7755 www.mfa.gov.sc

+971 2 658 0788 www.drembassyuae.com

Kuwait

Fiji +971 56 305 7227 +971 2 681 3002 www.fijiembassyuae.com

Mexico

Finland +971 2 632 8927 www.finland.ae

France +971 2 813 1000 www.ambafrance-eau.org

Germany +971 2 596 7700 www.abu-dhabi.diplo.de

Greece +971 2 449 2550 +971 50 390 1820 www.mfa.gr/abu

Hungary +971 2 676 6190 www.mfa.gov.hu

India +9712 449 2700 www.indembassyuae.org

206

Issue 2015

Singapore

Uzbekistan

Jordan

Romania

+971 2 222 2083 www.mfa.gov.sg

+971 2 448 8215 www.uzbekembassy.ae

+971 4 397 0500 www.jorconsulate.com

Somali

Vietnam

Kazakhstan

+971 4 349 2971 +971 4 349 2972 www.mae.ro

+971 2 666 9700 www.uae.somaligov.net

+971 2 449 6720 vietnamembassy-uae.org

+971 4 339 7156 +971 4 339 7151 www.kazconsulate.ae

Russian Federation

Kenya

Saudi Arabia

South Africa +971 2 447 3446 www.southafrica.ae

Spain +971 2 626 9544 www.maec.es

Sri Lanka +971 2 631 6444 srilankaembassyuae.com

Swaziland +971 2 666 9637 www.gov.sz

Sweden +971 2 417 8800 www.swedenabroad.com

Switzerland +971 2 627 4636 www.eda.admin.ch

Tanzania +971 2 631 3088 www.immigration.go.tz

Thailand +971 2 557 6551 www.thaiembassy.org

Syrian Arab Republic +971 2 444 8768 www.syrianembassy.ae

Turkey +971 2 410 9999 +971 2 441 7666 abudhabi.emb.mfa.gov.tr

Ukraine +971 2 632 7586 oae.mfa.gov.ua

Uganda

Consulates

+971 4 342 8111 www.kenyaembassy.ae

Angola

Korea

+971 4 344 7541 www.angolaconsulate.ae

United States

Lebanon +971 4 397 7450 lebanonconsulate-uae.com

+971 4 508 7100 www.uae.embassy.gov.au

Malaysia

China

+971 4 398 5843 www.kln.gov.my

+971 4 394 4733 dubai.china-consulate.org

Mexico

Danish

+971 4 3971122 +971 4 282 3338

France

New Zealand

Germany +971 4 349 8888 +971 50 6504 134 www.dubai.diplo.de

Greece +971 2 449 2550 +971 50 390 1820 www.mfa.gr/abu

India

Italy +971 4 331 4167 www.consdubai.esteri.it

Japan +971 4 331 9191 dubai.uae.emb-japan.go.jp

Somali +971 4 222 3030 www.uae.somaligov.net

South Africa +971 4 397 5222 www.dirco.gov.za/dubai

Sri Lanka +971 4 398 6535 www.slcgdxb.com +971 4 329 0999 www.eda.admin.ch

+971 4 440 7600 uae.nlembassy.org

+971 4 205 5999 www.consulfrance-dubai.org

+971 4 321 9498 www.mfa.gov.sg

Moroccan

Netherlands

Finland

Singapore

Switzerland

+971 4 349 6355 moroccanconsulate-dubai.com

Egypt

+971 2 397 9777 www.mofa.gov.sa

+971 4 394 5510

+971 4 348 0877 fae.um.dk/en

United Kingdom

+971 2 414 2200 abudhabi.usembassy.gov

+971 4 397 8000

Australian

+971 4 397 1222 +971 4 397 1333 www.cgidubai.com

United States

Kuwait

+971 4 309 4000 dubai.usconsulate.gov

+971 2 665 9931 www.ugandaembassyuae.com

+971 2 610 1100 www.gov.uk

+971 4 344 9200 are-dubai.mofa.go.kr

+971 4 328 5347 www.gconsdubai.mid.ru

+971 4 331 7500 www.mfat.govt.nz

Norwegian +971 4 382 3880 www.norway.ae

Taiwan +971 4 397 7888 www.roc-taiwan.org/DXB

Tanzania +971 4 394 0200 www.tanbizdubai.com

Thai +971 4 348 9550 thaiconsulatedubai.com

Tunisia

Oman

+971 4 261 7070

+971 4 397 1000 www.ocodubai.com

Turkey

Pakistan +971 4 397 0412 www.pakistanconsulate.ae

Peru +971 4 422 7550 www.peru.ae

Philippines +971 4 220 7100 www.pcgdubai.net

Qatar +971 4 396 0444

207

+971 4 331 4788 dubai.bk.mfa.gov.tr

Ukraine +9714 385 7668 mfa.gov.ua

Vietnam +971 4 398 8924 www.mofa.gov.vn

Yemen +971 4 397 0131 yemenconsulatedubai.org

Tourist | Essentials

Hotels

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri

Abu Dhabi

Al Raha Beach Hotel +971 2 508 5555 www.danathotels.com

Al Sahel Villa Resort +971 2 801 4300 al-sahel.anantara.com

Al Yamm Villas +971 2 801 4200 al-yamm.anantara.com

Armed Forces Officers Club & Hotel +971 2 441 5900 www.afoc.mil.ae

Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers +971 2 697 9000 www.rotana.com

Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi +971 2 616 6166 www.ihg.com

Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna +971 2 801 2222 www.danathotels.com

Desert Island Resort & Spa +971 2 801 5400 desertislands.anantara.com

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi +971 2 698 8888 www.dusit.com

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr +971 2 654 3333 www.fairmont.com

Grand Millenium Al Wahda +971 2 443 9999 www.millenniumhotels.ae

Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel +971 2 681 1900 www3.hilton.com

Hyatt Capital Gate +971 2 596 1234 abudhabi.capitalgate.hyatt.com

Intercontinental Abu Dhabi

+971 2 412 3333 easternmangroves.jannah.ae

Emirates Palace +971 2 690 9000 www.kempinski.com

Millenium Hotel Abu Dhabi

Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort

+971 2 614 6000 www.millenniumhotels.ae

+971 2 677 3333 sheratonabudhabihotel.com

Park Arjaan by Rotana

Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche +971 2 813 7777 www.sofitel.com

St. Regis Abu Dhabi

+971 2 407 1234 abudhabi.park.hyatt.com

+971 2 694 4444 www.stregisabudhabi.com

Park Rotana

St. Regis Saadiyat Island

+971 2 657 3333 www.rotana.com

+971 2 886 2088 qasralsarab.anantara.com

Eastern Mangroves Ho- Jumeirah at Etihad tel & Spa by Anantara Towers

Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana

+971 2 509 8888 www.shangri-la.com

Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara

+971 2 666 6888 www.ihg.com

Eastern Mangroves Suites by Jannah

+971 2 674 2020 leroyalmeridienabudhabi.com

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas

+971 2 617 0000 www3.hilton.com

+971 2 811 5555 www.jumeirah.com

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri

+971 2 657 3333 www.rotana.com

Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi

+971 2 656 1000 abu-dhabi.anantara.com

Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi

Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal +971 2 818 8888 www.ritzcarlton.com

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

+971 2 657 0000 www.rotana.com

+971 2 813 5550 www.rosewoodhotels.com

Le Meridien Abu Dhabi

Royal Rose Hotel

+971 2 644 6666 lemeridienabudhabi.com

+971 2 672 4000 www.royalrosehotel.com

208

+971 2 498 8888 stregissaadiyatisland.com

Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa +971 2 616 9999 westinabudhabigolfresort.com

Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi +971 2 656 0000 viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

Aloft Abu Dhabi +971 2 654 5000 www.aloftabudhabi.com

Issue 2015

Cassells Ghantoot Beach Resort

Al Ain Ramada Beach Hotel

+971 2 506 8888 cassellsghantoothotel.com

Crowne Plaza Yas Island +971 2 656 3000 www.crowneplaza.com

Golden Tulip Al Jazira +971 2 562 9100 www.goldentulipaljazira.com

One to One Hotel The Village +971 2 495 2000 www.onetoonehotels.com

Oryx Hotel +971 2 681 0001 www.aldiarhotels.com

Radisson Blu Yas Island +971 2 656 2000 www.radissonblu.com

Sheraton Khalidiya Hotel +971 2 666 6220

Staybridge Suites Abu Dhabi +971 2 656 3333 www.ihg.com

Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri +971 2 510 8888 www.shangri-la.com

Yas Island Rotana +971 2 656 4000 www.rotana.com

Armani Hotel Dubai

Al Ain Rotana +971 3 754 5111 www.rotana.com

Danat Al Ain +971 3 704 6000 www.alain.danathotels.com

+971 6 742 9999 www.landmarkhotels.net

Ajman Beach Hotel +971 6 742 3333 www.ajmanbeachhotel.com

+971 3 768 6666 www3.hilton.com

Ajman Ajman Palace +971 6 701 8888 www.theajmanpalace.com

Ajman Saray +971 6 714 2222 www.ajmansaray.com

Kempinski Hotel Ajman +971 6 714 5555 www.kempinski.com

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa +971 4 809 6498 www.meydanhotels.com

Bonnington Jumeirah Lakes Towers +971 4 356 0000 www.bonningtontower.com

Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Al Ain

Hilton Al Ain

Atlantis, The Palm +971 4 426 2000 www.atlantisthepalm.com

Dubai +971 3 783 8888 www.mercure.com

+971 4 888 3888 dubai.armanihotels.com

Al Bustan Rotana

Burj Al Arab

+971 4 282 0000 www.rotana.com

+971 4 301 7777 www.jumeirah.com

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

Crowne Plaza Dubai

+971 4 832 9900 www.al-maha.com

Al Murooj Rotana +971 4 321 1111 www.rotana.com

Al Qasr +971 4 366 8888 www.jumeirah.com

Amwaj Rotana +971 4 428 2000 www.rotana.com

Anantara The Palm +971 4 567 8888 dubai-palm.anantara.com

Ajman Saray

Park Inn by Radisson +971 2 656 2222 www.parkinn.com

Centro Yas Island +971 2 656 4444 www.rotana.com

Al Ain Palace +971 2 679 4777 www.alainpalacehotel.com

Al Diar Capital Hotel +971 2 678 7700 www.aldiarhotels.com

209

+971 4 331 1111 www.crowneplaza.com

Crowne Plaza Deira +971 4 262 5555 www.crowneplaza.com

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City +971 4 701 2222 www.crowneplaza.com

Dar Al Masyaf +971 4 366 8888 www.jumeirah.com

Desert Palm Dubai +971 4 323 8888 desertpalm.peraquum.com

Tourist | Essentials

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Moevenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

+971 4 414 0000 www.marriott.com

+971 4 449 8888 moevenpick-hotels.com

Keminpinski Hotel Mall Moevenpick Hotel of the Emirates Deira +971 4 341 0000 www.kempinski.com

+971 4 444 0111 moevenpick-hotels.com

Kempinski Hotel & Residence Palm Jumeirah

Metropolitan Palace

+971 4 444 2000 www.kempinski.com

Le Méridien Dubai +971 4 217 0000 www.lemeridien-dubai.com

Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort +971 4 399 3333 lemeridien-minaseyahi.com

JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa +971 4 346 1111 www.dxbmarine.com

Dusit Thani Dubai +971 4 343 3333 dubai.dusit.com

Fairmont Dubai +971 4 332 5555 www.fairmont.com

Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach +971 4 270 7788 www.fourseasons.com

Grand Hyatt +971 4 317 1234 dubai.grand.hyatt.com

Grand Millennium Dubai +971 4 429 9999 www.millenniumhotels.com

Grosvenor House +971 4 399 8888 grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

Habtoor Grand +971 4 399 5000 www.habtoorhotels.com

Hilton Dubai Creek +971 4 227 1111 www3.hilton.com

Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort And Spa

Hilton Dubai Jumeirah +971 4 399 1111 www3.hilton.com

+971 4 399 5555 leroyalmeridien-dubai.com

Hyatt Regency

Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf

+971 4 209 1234 dubai.regency.hyatt.com

+971 4 317 7777 www.marriott.com

Intercontinental DFC +971 4 701 1111 www.ihg.com

Media Rotana

JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa +971 4 814 5555 www.jaresortshotels.com

Jumeirah Beach Hotel +971 4 348 0000 www.jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel

+971 4 435 0000 www.rotana.com

+971 4 205 1035 www.metropolitanpalacedubaihotel.com

Oberoi Dubai +971 4 444 1444 www.oberoihotels.com

One & Only Royal Mirage +971 4 399 9999 www.oneandonlyresorts.com

One & Only the Palm +971 4 440 1010 www.oneandonlyresorts.com

Park Hyatt +971 4 602 1234 dubai.park.hyatt.com

Raffles Dubai +971 4 324 8888 www.raffles.com

Radisson BLU (Dubai Marina)

Melia Dubai

+971 4 435 5000 www.radissonblu.com

+971 4 386 8111 www.melia-dubai.com

Ritz Carlton DIFC

Meydan Hotel

+971 4 372 2222 www.ritzcarlton.com

+971 4 381 3333 www.meydanhotels.com

Ritz Carlton Hotel

Millennium Plaza Hotel

+971 4 399 4000 www.ritzcarlton.com

+971 4 230 8555 www.jumeirah.com

+971 4 387 7777 www.millenniumhotels.ae

Rixos The Palm Dubai

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Mina A’ Salam

+971 4 457 5555 www.rixos.com

+971 4 366 8888 www.jumeirah.com

Royal Radisson Hotel

+971 4 330 0000 www.jumeirah.com

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Movenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel Dubai

+971 4 453 0000 www.jumeirah.com

+971 4 444 0000 moevenpick-hotels.com

JW Marriott Hotel Dubai

Movenpick Hotel & Apartments Bur Dubai

+971 4 262 4444 www.marriott.com

+971 4 336 6000 moevenpick-hotels.com

210

+971 4 308 0000 www.radissonblu.com

Samaya Hotel +971 4 703 3333 www.samayahoteldeira.com

Shangri-La Dubai +971 4 343 8888 www.shangri-la.com

Issue 2015

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers

The Address, Dubai Marina

+971 4 228 1111 sheratondubaicreek.com

+971 4 436 7777 www.theaddress.com

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach

The Address Montgomerie

+971 4 399 5533 sheratonjumeirahbeach.com

+971 4 390 5600 www.theaddress.com

Sofitel Jumeirah Beach

The H Hotel Dubai

BurJuman Arjaan by Rotana

+971 4 501 8888 www.h-hotel.com

+971 4 352 4444 www.rotana.com

Sofitel The Palm

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Capitol Hotel

+971 4 455 6677 www.sofitel.com

+971 4 818 2222 waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

Sofitel Downtown Dubai

Warwick Hotel Dubai

+971 4 448 4848 www.sofitel.com

Al Manzil Hotel +971 4 428 5888 www.almanzilhotel.com

Arjaan by Rotana Dubai Media City +971 4 436 0000 www.rotana.com

+971 4 346 0111 www.capitol-hotel.com

Carlton Tower Hotel +971 4 222 7111 www.carltontower.net

+971 4 506 9600 www.warwickhotels.com

+971 4 503 6666 www.sofitel.com

+971 4 399 4141

+971 4 223 2222 www.tajhotels.com

www.westinminaseyahi.com

The Palace (Old Town) +971 4 428 7888 www.theaddress.com

The Address Downtown +971 4 436 8888 www.theaddress.com

The Address Dubai Mall +971 4 438 8888 www.theaddress.com

Sheraton Deira +971 4 268 8888 sheratondeiradubai.com

Avari Dubai Hotel +971 4 295 6666 www.avari.com

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road +971 4 323 0333 fourpointssheikhzayedroad.com

Golden Tulip Al Barsha +971 4 341 7750 goldentulipalbarsha.com

Golden Tulip Suites Dubai +971 4 341 7474 goldentulipsuitesdubai.com

+971 4 295 0500 www.millenniumhotels.com

+971 4 359 9992 grandexcelsiorburdubai.com

Coral Deira Hotel

Hallmark Hotel

+971 4 224 8587 www.coral-international.com

+971 4 222 1999 www.hallmarkhotel.com

Courtyard Dubai

Hatta Fort Hotel

+971 4 885 2222 www.marriott.com

+971 4 809 9333 www.jaresortshotels.com

Emirates Concorde Hotel

Holiday Inn Al Barsha

+971 4 223 0003 www.emiratesconcorde.com

Al Khaleej Palace Hotel +971 4 223 1000 alkhaleejpalacedubai.com

+971 4 354 3333 fourpointsdowntowndubai.com

Copthorne Hotel Dubai Grand Excelsior Hotel

Westin Mina Seyahi

Taj Palace

Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai

Emirates Grand Hotel +971 4 323 0000 emiratesgrandhotel.com

Flora Creek +971 4 230 9000 www.florahospitality.com

Flora Hotel Apartment +971 4 222 2003 www.florahospitality.com

Flora Grand Hotel +971 4 230 9999 www.florahospitality.com

Flora Park Hotel Apartment +971 4 230 9595 www.florahospitality.com

Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai +971 4 397 7444 fourpointsburdubai.com

211

+971 4 323 4333 www.hialbarshadubai.com

Holiday Inn Downtown +971 4 228 8889 www.ihg.com

JA Palm Tree Court +971 4 814 5555 www.jaresortshotels.com

JA Ocean View Hotel +971 4 814 5599 www.jaresortshotels.com

Jumeirah Rotana +971 4 345 5888 www.rotana.com

Landmark Riqqa +9714 294 6677 www.landmarkriqqa.com

Lotus Hotel +971 4 227 8888 www.lotushoteldubai.com

Fortune Boutique Hotel +971 4 273 5555 fortunegroupofhotels.com

Tourist | Essentials

City Star Hotel

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

+971 4 227 0002 www.citystarhotel.ae

Claridge Hotel

Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort +971 9 244 9000 www.lemeridien-alaqah.com

+971 4 271 6666 www.claridgehoteluae.com

Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort & Spa

Comfort Inn

+971 9 244 9994 www.miramaralaqah.com

+971 4 222 7393 www.hotelcomfortinn.com

Dream Palace Hotel +971 4 222 9292 www.dreampalacehotel.ae

Radisson Blu Fujairah +971 9 244 9700 www.radissonblu.com

Dubai Palm +971 4 271 0021 www.dubaipalmhotel.com

Landmark Baniyas Marco Polo Hotel +971 4 272 0000 www.marcopolohotel.net

Mercure Gold Hotel

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana +971 4 323 0111 www.rotana.com

Clifton International

Landmark Plaza Baniyas

Nour Arjaan by Rotana +971 9 202 5555 www.rotana.com

Lords Hotel

Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa

Metropolitan Deira

+971 4 294 1222 www.pullmanhotels.com

+971 4 228 9977 www.lordsgroupofhotel.com

Sheraton Mall of the Emirates

Mayfair Hotel

+971 4 702 8888 www.millenniumhotels.com

Moscow Hotel +971 4 228 8222 www.moscowhoteldubai.com

+971 4 228 4444 www.mayfairdubai.ae

+971 4 377 2000 www.starwoodhotels.com

Orchid Hotel +971 4 296 69 99 www.orchidhoteldubai.net

Suha City Hotel +971 4 209 5000 www.suhacitydubai.com

Versailles Hotel

Time Oak Hotel & Suites

+971 4 227 7880 www.dubaiversailles.com

+971 4 332 0000 www.novotel.com

+971 4 437 7888 www.timehotels.ae

Zain International

Radisson BLU Dubai Creek

Towers Rotana Hotel

Novotel World Trade Centre

+971 4 222 7171 www.radissonblu.com

Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Media City

+971 4 222 2202 www.zaingrouphotels.net

+971 4 343 8000 www.rotana.com

Fujairah

Vida Downtown +971 4 428 6888 www.vida-hotels.com

Al Diar Siji Hotel

+971 4 366 9111 www.radissonblu.com

+971 9 224 4788

+971 4 227 5555 www.landmarkplazabaniyas.com

Pullman Deira City Center

Millennium Airport

+971 9 223 6888 www.fortune-hotels.net

+971 4 228 6666 www.landmarkbaniyas.com

+971 4 301 9888 www.mercure.com +971 4 295 9171 www.habtoorhotels.com

City Tower Hotel

+971 9 238 5111 www.oceanichotel.com

Sandy Beach Hotel +971 9 244 5555 www.sandybm.com

Royal Beach Hotel +971 9 244 9444 www.royalbeach.ae

Holiday Beach Motel +971 9 244 5540 holidaybeachmotel.com

Fujairah Beach Motel +971 9 222 8111

Ras Al Khaimah

+971 9 223 2000 www.aldiarsijihotel.com

Al Hamra Residence

Regent Palace Hotel

Al Khaleej Hotel

Hilton Fujairah

+971 4 396 3888 www.rameehotels.com

+971 4 221 1144 www.alkhaleejhotel.ae

+971 9 222 2411 www3.hilton.com

+971 7 206 7222 www.alhamraresorts.com

Riviera Hotel

Chelsea Plaza Hotel

Fujairah Rotana

Al Hamra Village

+971 4 222 2131 www.rivierahotel-dubai.com

+971 4 398 2222 chelseaplaza.crimsonhotels.com

+971 9 244 9888 www.rotana.com

212

+971 7 206 7222 www.alhamraresorts.com

Issue 2015

Banyan Tree Al Wadi +971 7 206 7777 www.banyantree.com

The Cove Rotana Resort +971 7 206 6000 www.rotana.com

DoubleTree By Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island +971 7 203 0000 doubletree3.hilton.com

Golden Tulip Khatt Springs Resort and Spa +971 7 244 8777 goldentulipkhattsprings.com

Hilton Al Hamra Beach & Golf Resort +971 7 244 6666 www3.hilton.com

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah +971 7 228 8888 www3.hilton.com

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa +971 7 228 8844 www3.hilton.com

Marjan Island Resort & Spa +971 7 203 6666 marjanislandresort.com

Hilton Sharjah

Rixos Bab Al Bahr Ras Al Khaimah

+971 6 519 2222 www3.hilton.com

+971 7 202 0000 www.rixos.com

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Al Bustan Hotel

+971 7 203 5555 waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

+971 6 528 5444 www.albustangroup.com

Copthorne Hotel Sharjah

Beach Hotel Bin Majid

+971 6 593 5555 www.millenniumhotels.com

+971 7 235 2233 hotel.binmajid.com

Beach Resort Bin Majid

Coral Beach Resort Sharjah

+971 7 244 6644 resort.binmajid.com

+971 6 522 9999 coral-international.com

Double Tree by Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

Embassy Suites Hotel

+971 7 226 0666 doubletree3.hilton.com

Sharjah

+971 6 573 9777 www.embassysuites.net

Ewan Hotel +971 6 528 0111 www.ewanhotel.ae

Grand Hotel Sharjah 72 by Hues

+971 6 528 5557 www.sharjahgrand.com

+971 6 507 9797 www.hueshotels.com

Holiday International Hotel

Radisson BLU

+971 6 573 6666 holidayinternational.com

+971 6 565 7777 www.radissonblu.com

Marjan Island Resort & Spa

Lords Hotel Sharjah +971 6 528 6555 www.lordshotelsharjah.com

Marbella Resort +971 6 574 1111 www.marbellaresort.com

Sharjah Premiere +971 6 528 2777 www.sharjahpremiere.com

Sharjah Rotana +971 6 563 7777 www.rotana.com

Copthorne Hotel Sharjah

Golden Beach Motel +971 6 5281331 www.mhgroupsharjah.com

Green House Resort +971 6 522 4260

Lou Lou A Beach Hotel +971 6 528 5000 www.loulouabeach.com

Al Seef Beach Hotel

Royal Crown Hotel

+971 6 528 0099 www.alseefhotelsharjah.com

+971 6 556 1333 royalcrownhotelshj.com

Beach Hotel Sharjah

Sharjah Carlton Hotel

+971 6 528 1311 www.mhgroupsharjah.com

+971 6 528 3711 www.sharjahcarlton.com

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