RUME
MAGAZINE ISSUE 003
YOU GE L L I
T
W
FEBRUARY 2024
LUCKY
LOVE IS IN THE RUME
WHERE TO SPEND A PERFECT VALENTINE'S EVENING
IN CONVERSATION WITH CALUM SCOTT DUBAI FASHION WEEK
RUME
MAGAZINE ISSUE 003
contents
FEBRUARY 2024
4 VALENTINE'S DAY
8 IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN
5 SWEET 'N' SALTY
10
6 CIAO, CIPRIANI DOLCI
11 CALUM'S GOT TALENT
7 READY ON THE RUNWAY
12 STARS ON SAADIYAT
EIGHT SURE-FIRE WAYS YOU'LL BE FEELING LUCKY THIS FEBRUARY 14
FEBRUARY'S CANDLE OF THE MONTH IS SWEET ESCAPE
GET TO KNOW HUNA'S BRAND-NEW BREAKFAST SPOT WITH ROYAL APPROVAL
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DUBAI FASHION WEEK'S RETURN
WHAT KEEPS NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA DUBAI AT THE TOP OF ITS GAME?
SHOOTING FOR THE MOON A HOT TAKE ON HOW MOONRISE CONTINUES TO LEVEL UP
WE CHAT TO SINGER SONGWRITER CALUM SCOTT AHEAD OF HIS DUBAI GIG
HIGHEST IN THE RUME WHY IT'S WORTH TAKING THE TIME TO DESIGN YOUR GIFTING PROJECT FROM SCRATCH We truly believe that gifting should be a thoughtful and intentional process, not a box to tick when you have something to announce. Taking the time to truly design your gift with the recipient in mind will not only ensure you achieve the desired result, but you know that you're creating something they'll use and love for years to come. When designing this bag for K Consultancy, we wanted to embody the attention to detail and quality that the agency focuses on in its work. For their clients, they always put gifting at the forefront of a campaign, so when it came to gifting from their own brand, we knew it had to be something ultra-special. We opted for a smooth black leather weekend bag with debossed logo monogram and accent details in the brand's signature blue colour. The bag also comes complete with a personalised luggage tag in which the person's initials are written, and a branded dust bag to keep everything safe.
2 | RUME | FEBRUARY 2024
A-LIST MUSICIANS ARE DESCENDING ON THE CAPITAL THIS MONTH
editor’s letter
L
ove is in The Rume this month and we hope you’re feeling it too. This is a special issue to me because it’s a first-hand encounter of everything we’re currently loving in the UAE. From a sublime staycation at a hotel that everyone must-try at least once on page 8 to an incredible restaurant that consistently proves its prowess on page 10, we’re shining a light on some of the bestin-class experiences to try this month. This issue is a special one for another reason too,
as we bring you a one-on-one chat with singersongwriter-superstar Calum Scott. I sat down with the Britain’s Got Talent finalist ahead of his show in Dubai last month and was fascinated by his kind, humble nature. Read all about what he’s excited for on his upcoming tour with Ed Sheeran on page 11. And if that’s not enough to get you feeling warm and fuzzy on the inside, then check out page 4 for the very best ways to spend Valentine’s Day in Dubai. Pick your favourite person and treat them to a beautiful evening out and then try and tell me you don’t feel fabulous – I’ll be doing the same. I’m also planning a trip to the capital this month to see the incredible Alicia Keys live in concert. You can read all about her, and the other A-listers on the line-up for Saadiyat Night’s brilliant musical series on page 12. Have a great month and see you in the next issue.
Elise
wishlist
NEW BALANCE 530 AED509 footlocker.ae
HUNZA G TIFFANY SWIM AED940 hunzag.com
PRADA MINI RE-EDITION SHOULDER BAG AED9,200 ounass.ae
MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN BACCARAT ROUGE 540
AED1,140 sephora.ae
FEBRUARY 2024 | RUME | 3
8 CHANCES TO GET LUCKY THIS VALENTINE'S DAY Indulge in Italian elegance with a special menu at Chic Nonna. Enjoy alfresco dining with views of the Burj Khalifa, accompanied by romantic music and dishes like terrina di fegato d’Anatra and strawberry mousse.
At the heart of Dubai Creek, NOÉPE offers a Valentine's evening with unlimited drinks, canapes and stunning creek and skyline views, priced at AED399 per couple. Inspired by Cape Cod, it's ideal for a romantic celebration. Ladies receive a red rose upon arrival.
chicnonna.com
dubaicreekresort.com
Noépe This Valentine's, experience a week-long celebration with Luciano Bassi's classic melodies and signature cocktails in an opulent setting. The event promises a tantalising mix of sounds, tastes and sights.
Chic Nonna
Billionaire
billionairesociety.com
Enjoy Valentine's Day at Beefbar with exclusive dishes and drinks. Featuring a white chocolate and strawberry dessert and two unique cocktails. The venue is adorned with red candles and offers a rose to ladies upon arrival.
DRIFT presents a beachside dinner with a view of Dubai Marina. The evening includes a Champagne welcome, caviar bump and a French-inspired set menu for AED1,000 per couple alongside live piano and DJ entertainment.
Drift Beach Dubai
driftbeachdubai.com
beefbar.com/dubai
hutong-dubai.com
4 | RUME | FEBRUARY 2024
@theniceguydubai
The Nice Guy
Beefbar Celebrate Valentine's Day with an exclusive dessert, the Hutong Lover's Nest, and the Silky Passion cocktail. This Northern Chinese restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere for a memorable night.
Experience a four-course Valentine's menu (AED800 per couple, or AED1,200 with wine pairing). Enjoy items like salmon carpaccio, beef tagliata and chocolate mousse in a romantic setting with jazz music.
Hutong
Join DREAM Dubai for a Valentine's dinner and show from AED1,200 per person. The evening includes Mediterranean cuisine, performances and a choice of Champagne or mocktails. Enjoy dishes like fresh oysters and Angus beef tenderloin.
dreamdxb.com
Dream
Sweet 'n' Salty THE STORY BEHIND SWEET ESCAPE
I
n the creation of Sweet Escape, we sought to encapsulate the essence of the seaside - a place of tranquillity and solace, where the rhythm of the waves soothes the soul. This candle was designed to recreate the calming influence of the ocean in everyday life. The idea was to bottle that unique feeling of peace and bring it into the home. Sweet Escape is designed for those moments when the hustle of life becomes
overwhelming and when the soul yearns for the simplicity and calm of the seaside. The scent of Sweet Escape was a deliberate choice, inspired by the elements of the coast. The crashing waves, a symbol of nature's rhythm and power, are represented in the fragrance. The ripe bergamot brings a fresh, citrusy note, reminiscent of sun-
kissed shores, while the sweet patchouli adds depth and an earthy base, anchoring the scent in warmth and familiarity. Sweet Escape is a testament to the power of scent in transporting us to
places and memories dear to our hearts. It's a homage to the beach - a sanctuary for many - and a commitment to bringing a slice of that tranquillity into every home. With each flicker and waft, Sweet Escape offers not just light and fragrance, but a journey back to the soothing embrace of the sea.
the-rume.com
FEBRUARY 2024 | RUME | 5
Ciao, Cipriani Dolci Dubai’s Al Wasl welcomes a new Italian spot that's already been visited by royalty
A
visit from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is enough of a feat to send any restaurant’s booking lines into a frenzy. On the day we visit, less than a week after his royal seal of approval, Cipriani Dolci has queues to get in. Far from a latenight lounge with a bouncer on the door, the hosts work tirelessly to get everyone sat in a jiffy. While all the tables outside are taken, we were happy to be sat inside and people-watch from one end of the room. Like the other outposts (at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Marina Mall Abu Dhabi), this Cipriani Dolci has a distinct yacht-style design, with plush white and blue furniture and mahogany accents. As the first standalone venue in the UAE, the brand was able to take 6 | RUME | FEBRUARY 2024
this concept one step further with portside ‘windows’ (LED screens mimicking ocean waves) and an elegant bookcase displaying topics of everything from Chanel and sailing to the aforementioned Dubai ruler. Cipriani Dolci offers a Venetian menu, inspired by the charm of Harry’s Bar – a 93-year-old institution which also belongs to the Cipriani group. It’s light and concise with breakfast dishes until 3pm and lunch from 11:30am. The biggest hit for us was the turkey ham and cheese croissant. I’d even be so bold as to say it was the best croissant I’ve had in Dubai. Warm, light and flaky, without a hint of dryness, I couldn’t imagine a fresher pastry. The ham was flavourful and wafer-thin, and although my French friend informs me that lettuce shouldn’t be in a croissant, I thought it added a welcome texture. Top marks must also go to the homemade spinach and ricotta ravioli with butter and sage. Ravioli portion sizes can sometimes go amiss but this plate of perfection was generous and utterly satisfying, especially when drizzled in a good quality olive oil. No visit to Cipriani is complete without trying their namesake Bellini. Of course, this venue is dry so I settle for the mocktail version which is just as tongue-tingling and delicious, although I would’ve preferred if it was still served in a traditional flute.
This new edition of Cipriani Dolci feels more elevated and conceptual, where guests will come with intention than its mall-centric counterparts. Only time will tell if it can continue its post-royal visit hype but for now it certainly feels like the spot of the moment.
ciprianidubai.com/cipriani-dolci
runway
READY ON THE DUBAI FASHION WEEK RETURNS 4 - 8 FEBRUARY 2024
I
DUBAI FASHION WEEK IN NUMBERS THE NUMBER OF YEARS ARAB FASHION WEEK, NOW DUBAI FASHION WEEK HAS BEEN RUNNING
21 THE WEEK WILL PRESENT HUNDREDS OF DESIGNERS FROM
EDITIONS OF FASHION WEEKS HAVE HAPPENED IN DUBAI
50 COUNTRIES
250,000
VIVA VOX
edition, featuring heavyweights like Carolina Herrera and Naomi Campbell, is a testament to Dubai's rising influence. Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of the Arab Fashion Council, shared: "AW24-25 promises to be an unforgettable journey filled with inspiration, innovation, and style," as it invites enthusiasts and buyers to experience the undeniable fashion evolution in Dubai.
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The upcoming DFW edition will also offer a citywide calendar of high-profile shows and events. Attendees can look forward to exclusive events, brand activations, networking opportunities and insightful panel discussions. With its emphasis on innovative designs and a focus on sustainability, DFW is steadily establishing Dubai as a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world.
dubaifashionweek.org
FASHION ENTHUSIASTS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THE EVENT ACROSS FOUR DAYS
1
ARAB FASHION WEEK WAS THE FIRST TO LAUNCH A MENSWEAR FASHION WEEK IN ASIA, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
TOTAL NUMBER OF INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS TUNED INTO DUBAI FASHION WEEK
506K
n a bold move that's set to redefine the global fashion scene, Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) announced its Autumn/Winter 24/25 dates, through an eyecatching billboard in none other than Times Square, New York. Scheduled from 4 to 8 February, 2024, the third edition of DFW is returning to its home at the Dubai Design District (d3). What makes this event even more exciting is its new positioning in the global fashion calendar. For the first time, Dubai will lead the way, setting the tone for the season ahead of fashion capitals like New York, London, Milan and Paris. DFW is not just about showcasing fashion though; it's a strategic move to amplify Dubai's visibility on the global stage. The event aims to attract global buyers, key opinion leaders, and industry experts, while fostering collaborations with designers. This initiative is part of a larger plan to cement Dubai's status as a global hub of fashion and creativity. The success of DFW's Spring/Summer '24
55
THE PERCENTAGE OF GROWTH IN RSVPS FOR THE FIRST DUBAI FASHION WEEK COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS YEAR'S ARAB FASHION WEEK
FEBRUARY 2024 | RUME | 7
O
n a cold, rainy Valentine’s Day in 2017, I met Nikki Beach Dubai for the first time. There aren’t many places that I remember visiting so vividly, but it was love at first sight. Despite the clouds, the subsequent lack of crowd and my weather-inappropriate attire, I was transfixed by the team’s ability to create an uplifting atmosphere. Every tune spoke to my soul, the staff seemed to enjoy themselves just as much as the guests, and the dreamcatchers blowing the breeze made me feel far away from the chaos of the city. Seven years later, it still evokes the same emotions. Only now I’m not an unknown patron taking advantage of the deal on ladies’ day, I genuinely feel part of the family. And so do my family. When my mum comes to visit me, excited to see what’s new in the city, there’s only one constant on her wish list. I’ve had some of my happiest memories at Nikki Beach, surrounded by some of my favourite people. 8 | RUME | FEBRUARY 2024
IN A
league OF ITS OWN
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai: What it takes to stay on top in an increasingly competitive landscape It therefore gave me great pleasure when, on her stopover through Dubai, my mum and I were able to stay the night at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai for the very first time. While we’d been to the hotel several times, we’d never had the opportunity to actually check in. Expectations were of course running high as we pulled up to the valet and handed over our luggage. Naturally, we arrived ahead of schedule, so we’re shown to the pool deck to enjoy a welcome drink while the room is finalised. The ocean view is instantly calming, and the fresh, salty air breezing through
reset something in my psyche. That view doesn’t leave our sights for the entire stay and takes centre stage once we head up to the room. Looking out from the fluffy cloud-like bed, we ensure the curtains are never drawn so we don’t miss a moment to drink it in. While not the most centrally located property, being further out from the hustle and bustle has many advantages. First
being that the beach is adjacent to open sea, meaning you’ll experience proper waves. I can only think of a handful of hotels in the city that tick that box. It might not seem like a big deal to have lively water to-ing and froing around you, but it does wonders for the soul. The other benefit of being further from the ‘heart’ of the city is exactly that; a chance to get away from it all. Dubai’s
omnipresent traffic noise soon becomes a distant memory once you enter the passageway of Pearl Jumeira Island. The property is home to its namesake beach club, which boasts iterations across the globe everywhere from Miami to Montenegro. With strong branding that’s carried across all its venues, you’ll always know what you’re going to get when you visit: high energy, friendly service and a funloving, unpretentious crowd. The space is elevated and wellmaintained with a recent addition of private pool cabanas that show the brand’s desire to stay ahead of
its competitors. The food is not to be overlooked either. Just because the beach club is known for day-tonight parties and basking under the sun, doesn’t mean it shies away from a wellexecuted menu. We devour plates of meticulously crafted sushi, citrus-topped salmon ceviche and wafer-thin octopus carpaccio until we can barely lift our chopsticks. Whether dining poolside while bopping to the beats or glamming up a little to sit under parasols in the restaurant, the service is unmatched. Back at the hotel, the
poolside experience is more subdued, opting for a quiet luxury ambience in comparison to its
noisier neighbour, meaning guests can enjoy the best of both worlds. There’s also a stunning spa for taking your relaxation game to a whole new level. With a private pool for post-treatment chill time, you can listen to the sounds of a trickling waterfall and watch your troubles dissipate. Whether living it up at the beach club or switching off in the spa, it’s impossible to not be excited to visit this hotel. It just goes to show you don’t need a crazy rooftop bar or gold-flaked drinks to achieve a seven-star experience, just genuinely passionate, positive people who want to Celebrate Life. dubai-bc.nikkibeach.com
FEBRUARY 2024 | RUME | 9
Shooting for the moon A
A hot take on how Moonrise continues to level up
fter receiving a Michelin star in the 2023 Michelin Dubai Guide, it would be very easy for chef Solemann Haddad to put his feet up and reap the rewards. An increased wave of interest, new liquor licence and freshly expanded space is plenty to be pleased with – but something tells me he won’t stop there. It’s my third visit to Moonrise; the first since it was renovated to accommodate more guests per seating. I struggle to decide whether I was most blown away the first time – when I experienced something truly unlike ever before – or the most recent occasion. Everything about the menu has levelled up. Two years of fine tuning, actively aiming to get 1 per cent better and no doubt taking on constructive feedback, has compounded into a truly impressive experience. The operation runs like a well-oiled machine, with the team carefully flowing around each other like waves to finalise each of the 11 courses presented before us. The hours of prep we don’t see are laid out on the countertop as each chef carefully pipes, pipettes and blowtorches various ingredients with prowess. Before starting each course, we’re given a quick overview of not only what we’re about to eat but how it came about. Artistdesigned cards are also provided to each dining couple to give further background about the ingredients. The level of detail and thought behind each bite is what you leave thinking about. From carefully sourced flavours and immaculate presentation to even the mood and atmosphere, nothing is left to chance. There isn’t one person close to me that I haven’t implored to try Moonrise – and you can take that as your cue to get booked in.
moon-rise.xyz 10 | RUME | FEBRUARY 2024
T
he new year has barely begun, and British singer Calum Scott is off to a flying start. The Britain’s Got Talent finalist has just kicked off a six-month stint opening for Ed Sheeran’s +–=÷× Mathematics Tour. And when we sit down with him ahead of their Dubai leg, he’s visibly buzzing. “What more could I ask for at the top of the year than to be supporting arguably the most talented artist in the world? I can’t really ask much more of life than to be given that,” he beams with an endearing Yorkshire accent. Despite rocketing to stardom nine years ago, he hasn’t lost sight of where he came from, and the things he’s achieved. “I remind myself constantly of my blessings and I'm always so grateful to be where I'm at and that helps me stay on a really steady path. I used to work for Asda!” With no less than one billion views on YouTube, it’s not surprising that You Are
"I REMIND MYSELF CONSTANTLY OF MY BLESSINGS"
the Reason is the song
he looks forward to performing the most: “It's a song that seems to have transcended, it doesn't matter where in the world you live, doesn't matter what language you speak. You Are the Reason is a dedication of love from one to another, and I think that's why it's so widely understood.” But it’s his newest single, Lighthouse, that has Scott most excited. It was scheduled for release on day one of the Dubai gigs (19 January) but the audience in Bahrain were given a sneak preview: “It's one hell of a song to sing live. I'm just going to say that. It's so powerful and so up in my range, but it feels so empowering and so hopeful. And it's such a big song to start the set with. I feel like it's quite brave,” he confesses. “If Bahrain was anything to go by, then Dubai is going to be insane”. Scott’s relationship with Ed Sheeran was one that developed naturally, after working on a currently unreleased song
FROM BECOMING BESTIES WITH ED SHEERAN TO REFLECTING ON LIFE BEFORE STARDOM, WE DELVE INTO THE WORLD ACCORDING TO CALUM SCOTT
written by Sheeran and performed by Scott for David Guetta. “I'd got hold of it, vocaled it and sent it to them. Then me and Ed got on a really great vibe on emails where it just felt very personal, like he'd known me all his life. I guess after that that I was top of his mind when he announced the tour.” With six months together in
such close proximity, could there be a collaboration on the cards? “I have no doubt that we'll be besties by the end of it, but who knows what might happen on the road, with writing potentially. I don't want to push the agenda, he's done me such a huge thing by me being on the tour with him.” As two of the of the humblest artists in the music industry, it would be a shame not to see them release something special together, but we’ll just have to watch this space over the next six months.
@calumscott
FEBRUARY 2024 | RUME | 11
STARS ON SAADIYAT MUSICAL HEAVYWEIGHTS ARE MAKING THEIR WAY TO ABU DHABI THIS MONTH FOR THE MAGICAL SAADIYAT NIGHTS SERIES
S
aadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi is currently playing host to a vibrant and culturally rich extravaganza, Saadiyat Nights. Running until March 2, this event transforms the island's Cultural District into a celebration of music, art and sophistication, set against a breathtaking backdrop. As the inaugural open-air musical event series on the island, Saadiyat Nights is captivating audiences with an impressive line-up of performances from world-renowned artists. Sting Kicking off the month on February 3 is Sting, the illustrious singer-songwriter known for his unique fusion of rock and pop. With a career spanning over four decades, Sting has become an iconic figure in the music world, celebrated for both his time with The Police and his successful solo career. Audiences can expect a night filled with his timeless hits, characterised by thought-provoking lyrics and memorable melodies. Majida El Roumi On February 10, the multi-award-winning Lebanese legend Majida El Roumi graces the stage. Known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, El Roumi is a symbol of cultural richness in the Arab music world. Her music, often infused with traditional melodies and poetic lyrics, promises to create a captivating experience for all attendees. Alicia Keys The following week, on February 17, Alicia Keys, the renowned singer and songwriter, is set to deliver an unforgettable evening of soulful melodies. Keys, a multiple Grammy Award-winner, is celebrated for her dynamic vocal range and heartfelt piano compositions. Her performance under the starlit skies of Saadiyat Island is anticipated to be a blend of energy and soul-stirring music. FEBRUARY 2024 | RUME | 12
Sir Tom Jones Closing the series are two back-to-back concerts by legendary artists. On March 1, Sir Tom Jones, with his decades of musical excellence, will bring his charismatic and powerful performance to the island. Known for his distinctive voice and dynamic stage presence, Jones’ show promises to be an evening of timeless hits. John Legend Following him, on March 2, is the iconic John Legend. A multi-talented artist known for his smooth vocals and captivating piano skills, Legend is set to enchant the audience with his blend of R&B, soul and pop, adding a magical touch to the finale of Saadiyat Nights. Each artist in the line-up brings their unique style and legacy, making it a must-visit destination for culture and music enthusiasts. This series not only showcases international talent but also cements Saadiyat Island's status as a cultural hub in the Middle East. Tickets start from AED295.
saadiyatisland.ae/saadiyat-nights