dxb city expert - july/august'16 - uk

The insider's guide to Dubai's must-have

visitor experiences

July/August 2016

1 DXB City ExpertWelcome Note

We know it can feel a little overwhelming when you first set foot in Dubai. How exactly do you explore this ultra modern metropolis? Where do you start? We love Dubai and we want to ensure that you feel the same, so that’s why we

decided to create this handy-sized, helpful guide to help you on your way.

Rather than present you with a long list of recommendations which would take you the duration of your holiday to read, our Dubai-based team of in-the-know writers have cherry picked the city’s best bits – leaving you free to simply enjoy it.

Inside this guide you’ll find insider knowledge on everything from the best restaurants with a view and tips on where to shop for clothes made by the finest local

fashion designers, to the coolest clubs and the top-notch family entertainment. We’ll also tell you which of the many organised tours are the best to take to see all

of this city’s ample attractions.

All that remains is for us to wish you the holiday of a lifetime. Go get it...

John ThaTcherEditorial DirectorDXB City Expert

To

DUBAI

A WA R M

ediTorialEditorial Director John Thatcher

Contributing EditorLara Brunt

Contributors Hayley Skirka, Nicola Monteath

arTArt DirectorAndy Knappett

DesignerEmi Dixon

IllustratorAndrew Thorpe

commercialManaging DirectorVictoria Thatcher

Group Commercial DirectorDavid Wade

Commercial DirectorRawan Chehab

Business Development Manager Rabih El Turk

Sales ManagerLisa Price

ProdUcTionProduction ManagerMuthu Kumar

Cover Image :Fountains, The Dubai MallBy Andrew Thorpe

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3 DXB City ExpertContents

CONTENTSThe

Produced for dnata Travel by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. All prices mentioned are correct at time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors contained in DXB City Expert.

5On ArrivAl

All you need to know when you touch down in Dubai.

6SO ThiS iS DubAi

A little local knowledge to help you ease your way into the city.

17TOp Of The TOurS

Let the experts take the strain out of sightseeing.

28Where TO eAT

From fine dining and ‘only in Dubai’ eats, to family favourites and best budget options, this chapter

comes stuffed with our recommendations.

52`Where TO ShOp

There’s more to Dubai’s shopping scene than merely the world’s biggest mall. Credit cards at the ready…

60WhAT TO DO

Underwater, on the water, in the sand and in the snow: there are myriad ways to enjoy yourself

in the city. We’ve selected the best.

70Where TO GO

With most of the city's al fresco offerings shut for summer, all the after dark fun heads indoors for these

two months. Here's where to find it...

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5 DXB City ExpertOn Arrival

OnARRIVAL

Leaving The airporTThere are ample public taxis available at the airport, though there’s every chance you’ll have to queue to get one. As you do so, you may notice a line of estate-sized pink-roof taxis. These are exclusively for women and families, and are helmed by female drivers only. There are also taxis specifically for special needs travellers – both can be requested from the taxi line attendant once you’re at the front of the queue. Your fare will include an airport pick-up fee of Dhs25, which is the amount the meter will start from.

Dubai International Airport is also serviced by the Dubai Metro. However, each passenger is restricted to two pieces of luggage, one of which shouldn’t be bigger than hand luggage. Trains run approximately every 10 minutes and depart from Terminals 1 and 3 – just follow the signs. Trains start at 5.50am (5.30am on Thursday), and stop at midnight (1am on Thursday and Friday). But be aware that trains start at only 10am on Fridays. There are just two lines, so it’s easy to work out your route, and you’ll likely find taxis at each station to take you to your specific address.

If you’re intending to hire a car on arrival in Dubai, you’ll find all the major operators are present at the airport. Chief amongst them is Hertz, which is

hire a heLping hand from marhabaIf you’re reading this before you travel to Dubai, or if you haven’t yet planned your return journey to the airport, it’s well worth checking out the services of Marhaba (+971 4 389 8989, marhabaservices.com).

On arrival, their always-smiling staff greet you as you come off the aircraft, before ferrying you by buggy to passport control and whizzing you past the queues (which can be long) to their dedicated counters and beyond, where a porter will collect your luggage. Services are tailored to suit individuals, families and those with specific needs.

Fast-tracking through airport procedures is also a feature of anyreturn journey you make with Marhaba, while you can also book a chauffeur pick-up from anywhere in Dubai and enjoy the hospitality of their airport lounge – and its complimentary food and drink – as you await boarding.

have a wordAlthough English is spoken and understood pretty much everywhere you'll go in Dubai, it's polite to try a little Arabic when you show your passport on arrival. If Arabic’s not your native tongue, here are a few helpful words…

Marhaba : Hello Sabah al-khayr : Good morning As-salaam alaikum : Peace be upon you Ma’assalama : GoodbyeMinfadlak : PleaseShukran : Thank you

geT connecTedBefore departing the airport you may wish to buy a sim card that’s designed for visitors to use while in the UAE. It costs Dhs35 and provides you with the Visitor Mobile Line (VML), allowing you to make calls – or text – while in Dubai at a fraction of the cost you’ll pay for roaming. You can buy it from the ‘du’ shop in the arrivals hall of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Once purchased you can top it up by buying pre-paid cards at various convenient locations across the city, including du shops. See du.ae for a list of locations.

You’re almost there now, but before you head off to your hotel here’s a little something to help you on your way

available at both Terminal 1 (+971 4 224 5222) and Terminal 3 (+971 4 220 3013) of Dubai International Airport. Drivers must be aged 21 or over and be in possession of a valid driving license from their home country. Remember that driving in Dubai is on the right hand side of the road.

6 DXB City ExpertSo This Is Dubai

A little bit About this greAt city of ours…With a skyline dominated by towering skyscrapers and now-iconic structures like Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa, it’s hard to imagine that Dubai was once little more than a fishing village. The Bani Yas tribe settled next to Dubai Creek in 1833, and the area soon became a hub for fishing, pearling and trading. The discovery of ‘black gold’ in 1966 triggered Dubai’s remarkable transformation into the glittering city of today.

In 1971, Dubai joined with six neighbouring emirates – Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and (in 1972) Ras Al Khaimah – to form the United Arab Emirates, and this union is celebrated each year on December 2. Under the late Sheikh Zayed, the first President of the UAE, the country blossomed and has developed into one of the world’s most prosperous, while still remaining true to its rich heritage of Bedouin, Islamic and Emirati cultures.

Today, Dubai is home to over 200 nationalities that are attracted by its opportunities and lifestyle. Such has been the city’s rapid expansion beyond

You’ve read about it, seen the pictures and marvelled from afar. Now you’re here. But before heading off to enjoy the holiday

of a lifetime, here are a few things to put you in the know

DUBAII S

Chapter oNe

show some respectDubai is a very warm and welcoming city, but like anywhere else you travel in the world you’ll want to show respect for local sensibilities. Here are a few things to keep in mind while enjoying your holiday…

Be sure to refrain from over-the-top public displays of affection, even when in nightclubs.

Do not succumb to the urge to make rude hand gestures to other people – doing so could land you in hot water.

Dress modestly when outside the confines of your hotel, particularly if you’re heading to a mall, where women shouldn’t leave their shoulders bare.

Taking photos of some government buildings and all military sites is strictly prohibited. Stick to the tourist attractions when you’re choosing a background for selfies.

Don’t drink alcohol, or be seen to be overly intoxicated, outside of licensed premises. Unruly behaviour isn’t tolerated.

the bAsics, iN No more thAN 140 chArActers

The ClimateWithout a doubt, summer in Dubai is hot and humid. Daytime temperatures in July and August average 41°C, with overnight temperatures rarely dropping below 30°C.

The CurrencyThe UAE Dirham is what you’ll use. Notes come in 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 and their value is pegged at Dhs3.67 = US$1.

The Weekend The UAE’s weekend is Friday/Saturday. Dubai Metro services start at 10am on Fridays (5.30am on Saturdays) and run until 1am on weekends.

its Creek origins that residents now commonly refer to ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai, with the old part encompassing Dubai Creek and the wider Bur Dubai area in the north of the city, and the new part featuring the strictly modern superstructures – Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and all – which spread for miles into the south of the city.

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Get Your Bearings Throughout this guide we’ve referenced areas of Dubai, which to the first-time visitor may mean nothing at all. To help, here’s the skinny on the city’s districts you’ll most likely encounter...

DowNtowN DubAi

Home to the world's largest mall, tallest tower and biggest fountain, Dubai’s showpiece city centre is as glitzy as it gets. Lined with palm trees that twinkle with thousands of fairy lights, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard boasts five-star hotels, restaurants, a San Francisco-style tram and a constant flow of supercars. Another popular spot is Souk Al Bahar (‘market of the sailor’), a waterfront entertainment and dining hub overlooking the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.

DubAi mAriNA AND Jbr

In the south of the city, this buzzing district includes a man-made marina and a forest of skyscrapers that stretch from Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Brimming with hotels and restaurants, there are two beachfront promenades, The Walk and The Beach at JBR, packed with family-friendly eateries. You’ll also find the Marina Mall and the Dubai Tram, which connects to Palm Jumeirah monorail and will eventually extend to the Burj Al Arab.

bur DubAi AND DeirA

Flanking the southern side of Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai is the oldest part of the city. Here you’ll find the majority of the city’s historical sites, including Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed al Maktoum House, as well as restored wind-tower houses and a textile souk. Over the water, Deira is a melting pot of Arab, Asian and African cultures and a great spot for cheap street eats, as well as shopping in the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.

sheikh ZAyeD roAD

The 8km stretch of the main highway between Business Bay and the World Trade Centre roundabout is popular with tourists, expats and locals alike, thanks to the clutch of five-star hotels including the Fairmont Dubai, The Conrad and H Hotel, which are easily reached by metro (stations line Sheikh Zayed Road). Just past the roundabout is the brilliant Zabeel Park, one of the city's largest green spaces.

JumeirAh Home to sprawling villas and excellent beaches, this low-rise suburb overlaps with Umm Suqeim (where you’ll find Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah, an Arabesque-inspired hotel, dining and entertainment complex). Jumeirah is known for boutique shopping along

Jumeriah Beach Road, as well as trendy shops, cafés and restaurants at popular new developments such as The Galleria Mall, Box Park and City Walk. Jumeirah Mosque is another reason to visit.The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353 6666, cultures.ae) offers guided tours every Saturday to Thursday at 10am (Dhs10).

pAlm JumeirAh

Even if you’re not staying here, you can still visit the man-made island that’s become a symbol of Dubai. A monorail runs along the length of the trunk to Atlantis, The Palm, where you can spend the day at Aquaventure water park. Meanwhile, the 11km-long crescent has a string of five-star hotels with restaurants and spas open to non-guests.

Dubai Creek between Bur Dubai and Deira


best for… A sereNespA experieNce

Indulge in the signature four-hand mas-sage performed by two therapists work-ing together at Mandara Spa (+971 4 501 8270, h-hotel.com). Combining five different massage styles – Shiatsu, Thai, Hawaiian, Swedish and Balinese – you'll feel blissfully relaxed in next to no time at all.

best for… shAkiNg off your Jet lAg

Head to Warehouse 90 in the heart of Alserkal Avenue (+971 50 556 9797, alserkalavenue.ae) for a free yoga class led by Urban Yoga. Starting July 22, the 60-minute class will take place every Friday from 4.30pm with mats and water provided. To reserve your spot, email [email protected]

best for… keepiNg thekiDs eNtertAiNeD

Top Chef Cooking Studio (+971 4 385 5781, topchefdubai.com) in Jumeirah is hosting kids' summer camps from July 3 until August 25. Daily activities include art, yoga or zumba and a fun cooking class with a different menu each day. For ages six and up, the program costs Dhs300 per day or Dhs1,200 per week.

best for… A hoppiNg gooD time

Jump, spring and leap at Bounce (+971 4 3211 400, bounce.ae), a huge indoor playground filled with wall-to-wall trampolines and circus grade padding in Al Quoz. Whether you're clowning around up in the Free Jump arena or shooting some hoops in the Slam Dunk area, there’s something for every age.

best for… swimmiNg with DolphiNs

Snap a selfie with a dolphin or swim or scuba dive alongside these charismatic creatures at Dolphin Bay (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian- adventures.com), the conservation centre at Atlantis, The Palm.

best for… shoppiNg the summer sAles

Hunt out a bargain at one of the city's many malls during the Dubai Summer Surprises festival. Over 6,000 stores will slash their prices from July 9 until August 20, plus there are millions of dirhams worth of prizes to be won.

best for… greAt gAmiNg ActioN

Conveniently located at The Dubai Mall, SEGA Republic (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506) features more than 170 amusement, arcade, video and redemption games to test your skills.

best for… DowNhill skiiNgYes, you read that correctly. Choose from five exhilarating runs at Ski Dubai (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City

10 of the best ways to enjoy the great indoors

Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506), including the world’s first indoor black run. A full day pass including equipment hire costs Dhs310 for adults and Dhs285 for kids.

best for… A pleAsANt fAmily stroll

Wander through nine air-conditioned domes filled with thousands of plants, flowers and butterflies from around the world at Dubai Butterfly Garden (+971 4 422 8902, dubaibutterflygarden.com). Open daily from 9am-6pm, Dhs50 per person.

best for… AfterNooN teA with A view

Located directly opposite Burj Khalifa, afternoon tea is a decadent affair at Fortnum & Mason (+971 4 388 2627, fortnumandmason.ae). Enjoy British favourites such as Welsh Rarebit and Jam Roly Poly, accompanied by high quality teas. Dhs260 per person.

Fortnum & Mason

11 DXB City ExpertWhat To Do

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Just minutes away from Dubai International Airport and the key business districts of Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Media City and Dubai Airport Free Zone, Hyatt Place Dubai/Al Rigga also offers easy access to many of the city’s best heritage and modern-day tourist attractions, as well as world-class luxury shopping at Deira City Centre and The Dubai Mall.

Renowned for its culturally diverse characteristics, the district features a colourful mixture of traditional markets to explore. An evening stroll through

the bustling shops can be paired with a visit to the adjacent spice souk, where stores line the narrow lanes selling a variety of fragrances, spices, textiles, incense, rugs and artefacts. Al Mamzar Beach Park offers four beautiful beaches, while the seawater Dubai Creek is alive with dhows that criss-cross the water, allowing those shoreside an opportunity to catch a water taxi dhow, or sign up for a romantic sunset dhow cruise.

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Hyatt Place Dubai/Al Rigga features a variety of services and amenities like the Gallery Café, which serves a sumptuous lunch and dinner. Other offerings include the StayFit Gym, an outdoor pool, and public computers with internet access (plus remote printing, in the Gallery), while there is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

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Jul 1-Aug 27dubai sports worldDubai World Trade Centre is transformed into the region's largest indoor sporting venue. There are tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, as well as football pitches, table tennis, parkour, bungee trampolines, an aerial rope course and more. Open 8am-1am until August 27, dubaisportsworld.ae

Jul 1-Aug 27Modhesh world This giant temporary playground is an enormous soft play and activity centre for kids at Dubai World Trade Centre. Attracting thousands visitors over the summer months, you can expect slides, rides, trampolines, video games and live shows galore. Open until August 27, entry costs Dhs20 (under-3s free).

Jul 1-6raMadan MajlisShare the spirit of Ramadan at the indoor majlis at Dubai World Trade Centre. Even if you haven’t been fasting, you are still welcome to join in and enjoy à la carte Arabic cuisine, tea and shisha. Open until the end of Ramadan for iftar from 7pm-9pm and suhoor from 9pm-3am (4am on weekends), majlis.ae

Jul 1-2raMadan night MarketCatch the final two nights of this popular indoor market. There's a huge food court, family entertainment and kids' play area, plus a henna majlis for ladies. It takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 8pm to 2am. Entry costs Dhs5 (under-5s free), ramadannightmarket.com

What’s on this summerEnjoy a host of indoor activities throughout July and August

CloCkwise froM below:Euro 2016 in France; Ramadan Night Market; Ola, comedian from the Laughter Factory.


Jul 1-10thuefa euro 2016The final of the month-long European football tournament takes place on July 10 in France. Football fans in Dubai can watch all the action of the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the main event at various venues around town.

Jul 5 or 6 eid al-fitrEid al-Fitr, or 'Festival of Breaking the Fast', is expected to start on July 5 or 6 and is a celebration that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The festival sees a number of events happening around town, as well as a long weekend for UAE residents.

Jul 8-9MtV india undiVidedMore than 4,000 fans are expected to turn out for Pakistani classical vocalist Shafqat Amanat Ali and Indian pop-rock star Kailash Kher, who will take to the stage at Dubai World Trade Centre over the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Tickets from Dhs100, platinumlist.net

Jul 9-Aug 20dubai suMMer surprisesAs summer sizzles on, Dubai Summer Surprises offers super deals across the emirate's malls, spas and restaurants from July 9 until August 20. Alongside the bargains, most malls have fun activities for families and great prizes such as luxury cars up for grabs.

Jul 14-22the laughter faCtoryComedians Sean Collins, Ola and Michael Fabbri are on tour for five rib-tickling gigs at various venues throughout Dubai. Tickets from Dhs140, with drinks and buffet packages also available, thelaughterfactory.com

For more events happening this month, visit dubaicalendar.ae


An Insight Into Emirati Culture

for visitiors here DuriNg the lAst DAys of rAmADAN, Are there ANy etiquette tips they shoulD be AwAre of?I think all of the things visitors should be mindful of year-round, they should especially try to adhere to during Ramadan. So modest clothing, based on what’s considered modest here, rather than their home countries, and try to be patient with us – sometimes dealing with fasting people is challenging. Visitors must also remember that, by law, people are not allowed to eat or drink in public [from sunrise to sunset]. However, children can walk through the mall drinking a juice, for example – this is fine, as even Muslim children are not required to fast. Visitors shouldn’t be shy about letting their children eat or drink in public.

is there A wAy thAt the eND of rAmADAN AND the stArt of eiD Al-fitr is ANNouNceD?It’s traditional for a cannon to be fired in Dubai once every day to announce Iftar [the 'break fast' at sunset] during Ramadan. The canon is then fired twice

in a row to mark the start of Eid. A special section of the Police department fires the cannons, which are spread out in a few locations across Dubai, especially around the Creek.

whAt is eiD AND why Are there two?We have an Eid at the end of Ramadan called Eid al-Fitr [‘Festival of Breaking the Fast’] and another Eid at the end of Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca [in Saudi Arabia] called Eid al-Adha [‘Feast of the Sacrifice’]. So we have two holidays.

wheN will eiD Al-fitr stArt?Because the Islamic months are based on a lunar calendar, these holidays do not fall at the same time every year. Ramadan began on June 6 and normally lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon, which means that Eid al-Fitr is likely to fall either on July 5 or July 6. Eid al-Adha, meanwhile, is expected to begin on September 11.

how Do people celebrAte eiD Al-fitr iN DubAi?Eid al-Fitr lasts for three days so you can go visiting your friends and relatives. It’s a time for feasting and everyone should be eating, especially on the first day of Eid. Zakat al-Fitr ensures that everyone, including the poor, has food to eat. Zakat al-Fitr is an actual amount of charity that everyone who fasted needs to pay before the Eid

prayer. It’s the amount of two double handfuls of a common, non-perishable food [suitable] for the area you’re living in. For example, if people in the area don’t eat rice then you shouldn’t give two double handfuls of rice. This is required of everyone who has fasted to kind of 'wash away' any mistakes that you made while fasting, for example if you got angry or lost your patience.

Are there ANy speciAl fooDs eAteN DuriNg eiD Al-fitr??All during Ramadan we’re making, buying and consuming more food [during Suhoor and Iftar], especially during Eid! Traditionally harissa will be made, which is a porridge of lamb and oats, and we’ll eat all of the special dishes that we have at an event or a wedding, such as lamb ouzi, balaleet [sweet and savoury vermicelli and egg omelette], khameer [round flatbread], luqaimat [fried dumplings] and maamoul [shortbread filled with dates, pistachios or walnuts].

whAt is hAJJ?Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca at a specific time during the month of Dhul-Hijjah [the 12th and final month in the Islamic calendar]. Every Muslim must try to do the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime if they can afford to. There are certain activities that have to happen, which don’t happen if you went for Umrah. Umrah is the pilgrimage to Mecca at any time.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353 6666, cultures.ae) was set up in 1998 to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who sought to educate expatriates and visitors in the traditions and customs of the UAE.

To that end, SMCCU seeks to answer visitors’ questions about Emirati culture, its religion, politics and customs, and does so through its policy of ‘open doors/open minds’, meaning that no question is considered too silly or offensive. In short, it’s a must-visit for tourists.

In this series of question and answer sessions we’re conducting with SMCCU to provide you with an insight into Emirati culture, we discuss Eid al-Fitr with one of the centre’s guides, Salamah.

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17 DXB City ExpertTop Of The Tours

Bags unpacked, sunblock slathered on, it’s time to get out and see what this city is all about. But with its climate dictating a dearth of paved walkways,

Dubai isn’t a city that you can easily explore on foot. Luckily, our friends at Arabian Adventures and

City Sightseeing have just the answer…

Chapter T W O

T OU R SO F T H E

Top


DHO W DINNER CRUISECruise the historic Dubai Creek aboard a traditional wooden dhow, the famous ocean-going vessel of the region. Dine on Arabic and international cuisine as

you sail past the mosques, wind towers and lively souks of 'old Dubai', with the

glittering lights of the city's skyscrapers in the distance.

INClUDES:• Buffet dinner

• Aromatic Arabic coffee• Cruise on Dubai Creek

• Scenic photo opportunities

DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily (evening)WHaT’S INClUDED: Dinner cruise

GOOD TO kNO W: Operates year-round; modest dress is recommended; hotel

transfers can be addedpRICING: Adult/Child: From Dhs170

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992

or visit arabian-adventures.com


EaST COaST TOURExplore the dramatic canyons, sleepy villages and date-palm oases of the UAE’s east coast during a full-day tour. Shop for local pottery, crafts and carpets at the Friday Market, open daily; see the historic Bidyah Mosque, the oldest and smallest mosque in the United Arab Emirates; stop for lunch and take a dip in the beautiful ocean; and climb the towers and ramparts of the 16th-century Fujairah Fort

INClUDES: • Visit to a local market• Sightseeing stops at Bidyah Mosque and Fujairah Fort• Opportunity to swim in the ocean• Drive through canyon landscapes• Scenic photo opportunities

DayS Of OpERaTION: Mon, Wed, Fri (full day)WHaT’S INClUDED: Hotel transfers; guided tourGOOD TO kNO W: Operates year-round; modest dress is recommendedpRICING: Adult/Child: From Dhs225

To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com


aqUavENTURE aND THE lOST CHambERS aqUaRIUm

COmbO TICkETVisit Aquaventure and The Lost

Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm at a special price with this combo ticket. Experience adrenaline-pumping

waterslides that catapult you through shark-filled lagoons or race down the

world’s first dual slide-within-a-slide. Then, explore the underwater mazes and tunnels of the 'lost civilisation' of

Atlantis while encountering sharks, eels, seahorses, and piranhas in the

world-class aquarium.

INClUDES: • 17 hectares of waterslides and rides• The region's longest zip line circuit

• 700 metres of private beach• More than 65,000 marine animals

• Interactive aquarium show• Touch tank

DayS Of OpERaTION: DailyWHaT’S INClUDED: Entrance pass

GOOD TO kNO W: Operates year-round pRICING: Adult: Dhs310,

Child (under 1.2m): Dhs250




TRaDITIONal DUbaI CIT y TOURWhile the modern city has only existed for little more than 40 years, Dubai has a rich history that blends Bedouin, Persian, Islamic and Emirati culture and traditions. This fascinating tour explores the atmospheric old quarter of Al Fahidi with its wind towers and historic fort, as well as the bustling Creek area and exotic souks.

INClUDES:• Photo stop close to Burj Al Arab• Photo stop at Jumeirah Mosque• Drive by Zabeel Palace• Walk through Al Fahidi Cultural Neighbourhood • Visit to Dubai Museum• Traditional abra crossing over Dubai Creek• Walk through the spice and gold souks

DayS Of OpERaTION: Twice daily (half-day, morning /afternoon); Friday (afternoon only)WHaT’S INClUDED: Guided tour; hotel transfers GOOD TO kNO W: Modest clothing and walking shoes are recommendedl aNGUaGES: English and GermanOTHER l aNGUaGES: French and Italian tours operate on Sunday and Wednesday afternoon; Russian tours operate on Saturday morning and Tuesday afternoon. Mandarin tours operate on Monday and Thursday mornings. Japanese tours operate daily. Portuguese and Spanish language tours operate on Monday and Thursday and comprise a full-day tour of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai, including Burj Khalifa, At The Top.pRICING f OR ENGlISH/GERmaN; fRENCH/ITalIaN aND RUSSIaN TOUR OpTIONS:Adult: Dhs165, Child: Dhs110 (Dhs120 English/German)pRICING f OR maNDaRIN:Adult: Dhs175, Child: Dhs110pRICING f OR JapaNESE:Adult: Dhs180, Child: Dhs140pRICING f OR pORTUGESE aND SpaNISH: Including At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket Adult: Dhs495, Child: Dhs395



CIT y Of lIGHTS TOURWatch Dubai transform into a sparkling city of

lights during this evening City Sightseeing bus tour. The Creek Route takes in the enchanting lights

of Dubai Creek and the neon-lit commercial hubs of Deira and Bur Dubai, the oldest parts of the

city, before heading into the heart of 'New Dubai'. Meanwhile, the Contemporary Route showcases the

city's most strikingly illuminated modern buildings, including the glittering Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina

and the distinctive silhouette of Atlantis, The Palm.

INClUDES:• 2 sightseeing routes showcasing Dubai by night• See all the big sights including Burj Khalifa and

Atlantis, The Palm• Audio commentary in 13 languages

• Complimentary water

DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily from 6pm-10pmWHaT’S INClUDED: Hop-on and hop-off access to

all City Sightseeing buses on 2 routes for 3 hoursGOOD TO kNO W: Tour is free when purchasing a

24hr, 48hr or 72hr City Sightseeing Dubai ticket; Both routes are included in the ticket price and there

is enough time to do bothl aNGUaGES: English, Arabic, German, Spanish,

Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Turkish, Persian

pRICING: Adult: Dhs145, Child: Dhs75, Family (2 adults, 2 children): Dhs365.

To book, call 800-CSDUBAI (800 273 8224), email [email protected], or visit citysightseeing-dubai.com


CIT y SIGHTSEEING TOUREnjoy stress-free sightseeing during a hop-on, hop-off bus tour with City Sightseeing, the world’s leading open-top bus tour operator. There are four colour-coded routes showing you all of the most popular attractions. Step back in time in the old quarters of the city, wander among the vibrant souks, marvel at gleaming skyscrapers, and admire the beautiful coastline and marina. With over 44 bus stops across the city and countless photo opportunities, it’s the easiest way to see Dubai.

INClUDES:• All 4 sightseeing routes• Audio commentary in 13 languages• Complimentary water on board• Entry to a number of museums and attractions (see below)

DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily. Day tour: 9am-5.30pm; night tour: 6pm-10pmWHaT’S INClUDED: The 24hr ticket includes: City of Lights night tour; Arabian dhow cruise, RTA water taxi (abra); entry to Dubai Museum, Sheikh Sayeed Al Maktoum House and 5 other museums; ‘Show & Save’ shopping and dining discounts. The 48hr and 72hr tickets additionally include: entry to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo; City Sightseeing Sharjah and Ajman (shuttle bus to Sharjah available on certain days, check with driver)GOOD TO kNO W: Before your 24hr ticket has expired you can upgrade to a 48hr ticket for an extra Dhs55l aNGUaGES: English, Arabic, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Turkish, PersianpRICING: 24hr ticket: Family (2 adults, 2 children): Dhs580, Adult: Dhs240, Child (aged 5-15): Dhs100. 48hr ticket: Family: Dhs720, Adult: Dhs295, Child: Dhs130. 72hr ticket: Family: Dhs850, Adult: Dhs340, Child: Dhs170

To book, call 800-CSDUBAI (800 273 8224), email [email protected], or visit citysightseeing-dubai.com


pRIvaTE SHOppING TOURFrom traditional souks and tailors to hip independent boutiques and

one-stop-shop mega malls, Dubai is a shopper's paradise. Whether you're

looking for unique handmade souvenirs or a vintage designer handbag, Arabian Adventures can arrange a personalised

shopping itinerary with an experienced guide to help you uncover the city's

best retail gems.

fUlly CUSTOmISablE bUT CaN INClUDE:

• Browse traditional souks for spices, silks, gold, jewellery or art

• Peruse chic boutiques stocking local and international labels

• Visit tailors for bespoke and made-to-measure clothing

DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily, on request (half day or full day)

WHaT’S INClUDED: Private guide;hotel transfers

GOOD TO kNO W: Modest dress recommended; available in a variety

of languages pRICING: Varies

according to requirements




SUNDO WNER DUNE DINNER SafaRIWhen it comes to the quintessential desert experience, this best-selling tour is hard to beat. Venture into the enigmatic Arabian desert and watch the sun set over endless dunes; enjoy an Arabic feast under the stars at a traditional Bedouin-style camp; and sample Emirati culture with camel riding and henna painting.

INClUDES: • Dune driving through the desert• Sunset photo stop in the dunes• Arabic-style, three-course buffet with unlimited hops and grape beverages• Camel rides, falcon-viewing, sandboarding, henna painting and aromatic shisha • Belly dancing performance• Stargazing• All inclusive - no hidden costs• Optional camel milk chocolates and photos are available for purchase• A Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari and City Sightseeing combo ticket is available

OpTIONal UpGRaDES: Book a private 4x4 vehicle or add a sandboarding experience before the Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari.DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily (late afternoon until evening)WHaT’S INClUDED: Food, soft drinks and beverages; guided tour; hotel transfers GOOD TO kNO W: Operates year-round; a portion of your fee goes towards supporting local conservationpRICING: Adult: Dhs360,Child (aged 5-11): Dhs300



DESERT DUNE bUGGIESThose looking for the ultimate off-road

experience will love this exhilarating adventure tour. After leaving Dubai

in the morning or afternoon, you’ll head into the empty desert where the off-road dune buggies will be waiting. Then it’s a rollercoaster of a ride over

the dunes in the fully automatic, four-seater vehicles that were built for fun.

INClUDES:• Fully guided tour along the dunes

• Driving and safety instruction provided• All dune buggies are four-wheel-

drive, fully automatic with seat belts, roll cages and off-road suspension

• Driver experience and passenger experience options are available

• Shared buggy or private buggy option • Fantastic desert photo opportunities

DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily (half day, morning/afternoon)

WHaT’S INClUDED: Soft drinks; guided tour; hotel transfers

GOOD TO kNO W: Sports shoes recommended; operates year-

round; drivers must be minimum 18 years of age and carry a valid UAE

or international driver’s licence; passengers must be aged six and above

pRICING: Per person (sharing); 30-min driving time: Adult/Child: Dhs695

Per person (sharing); Passenger: Adult/Child: Dhs300

Private buggy (for up to 4 pax): Dhs1,500 per buggy




'NEW' DUbaI CIT y TOURWith its man-made islands, audacious architecture and futuristic skyline, Dubai has more than its fair share of iconic landmarks, and you can tick them off your list during this tour. Ride the monorail to Atlantis, The Palm; explore the buzzing Dubai Marina area; window shop at The Dubai Mall; and admire the view from the world’s tallest tower.

INClUDES:• Visit to The Lost Chambers aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm• One-way ride on The Palm Jumeirah monorail• Drive through Dubai Marina and the Jumeirah Beach Residence area• Afternoon visit to The Dubai Mall • Visit to Burj Khalifa (with option to include the observation deck ticket)• Free pickup; tour ends at The Dubai Mall DayS Of OpERaTION: Daily, except Fri (half day, morning); Wed, Fri (half day, evening)WHaT’S INClUDED: Fully-guided tourGOOD TO kNO W: Operates year-round;modest dress recommended l aNGUaGE: English and GermanOTHER l aNGUaGES: French/Italian and Russian tours operate on Monday and Thursday mornings. Portuguese and Spanish tours operate on Monday and Thursday and comprise a full-day tour of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai, including Burj Khalifa, At The ToppRICING f OR ENGlISH/GERmaN; fRENCH/ITalIaN aND RUSSIaN TOUR: Including At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket Adult: Dhs350, Child: Dhs300 Excluding At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket Adult: Dhs225, Child: Dhs175pRICING f OR pORTUGUESE/SpaNISH TOUR:Including At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket Adult: Dhs495, Child: Dhs395 Excluding At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket Adult: Dhs395, Child: Dhs320


28 DXB City ExpertWhere To Eat

what's new in town?

Dubai's ever-advancing gastro scene sees a raft of new restaurants opening each month. Here's our pick of those just opened...

In the recently opened Four Seasons DIFC, Laluz (+971 4 359 7777 laluzrestaurant.com) features a Catalonian-inspired menu from Alain Devahive. The Barcelona-born chef spent a decade working as Adrià Ferran’s right-hand man at elBulli, further honing his craft in elBullitaller – the food research laboratory set up by Ferran – and developing his own culinary techniques. The almost entirely Spanish speaking staff will happily provide recommendations – just be sure to order the beef carpaccio with foie gras and truffle vinaigrette

Dubai’s cultural diversity is reflected in its culinary mosaic of fantastic restaurants – from the best Indian

food this side of the subcontinent to sleek Japanese eateries and authentic Arabic mezze. It’s little wonder that world-renowned chefs are falling over themselves

to open venues in the city. There is something for every taste in Dubai, so it’s time to tuck in…

EatChapter thRee

and Spanish baby lamb ribs. In the same hotel, but with an altogether more casual vibe, Firebird Diner by Michael Mina (+971 4 506 0000, firebirddubai.com) is the American celebrity chef's diner-inspired restaurant. While the food may be all about comfort – think Buffalo-style chicken wings and lobster pot pie – it’s nevertheless a good-looking spot, with plush white leather booths, neon signage and staff in stylish 1950s-style dress. Open from 7am for breakfast until midnight (3am on Thursdays and Fridays).

The financial hub has also welcomed Bazxar (+971 4 355 1111, bazxar.com), a food-market-restaurant-wine-bar in one with industrial-chic décor (think rustic wooden flooring, mesh metal work with brass finishes and colourful contemporary art). The space is divided

into stations serving different types of cuisine, from Vietnamese steamed bao buns and aromatic soups to burgers and hotdogs, alongside a coffee counter and wine bar featuring a selection of 30 grapes by the glass.

Already at hit with Dubai’s sizeable Lebanese community is Al Falamanki (alfalamanki.com), one of Beirut’s most famous restaurants. Like the original, this sprawling Jumeirah Beach Road outpost features indoor and outdoor areas, homely décor with old ouds and tarabish hats decorating the walls, and a soft soundtrack of old-school Arab music. The traditional Lebanese menu features hot and cold mezze, salads, grills and manakeesh, along with a selection of shisha. The done thing here is to order a load of dishes to share and settle in for a game of backgammon.


about this ChapteR Where possible we've included a website, should you wish to look at menus and prices before heading out. And, of course, a phone number if you wish to book ahead. While only including those places we know and recommend, we’ve also included a range of

options price-wise, from restaurants that will cause your bank manager’s heart to skip a beat, to the too cheap to be true – and all that falls in between.


PREVIOUS PAGE:The MAINETHESE PAGES, CLOCKWISE FROM bELOW: Zuma; Totora; Marina Social; Sumosan

A TRUE TASTE OF THE EMIRATES

Considering all of the colourful cuisines Dubai has to offer, it might come as a surprise that good Emirati food is not so easy to come by. However, slowly but surely more and more authentic Emirati restaurants are cropping up across town.

An enduring favourite is Al Fanar (+971 4 232 9966, alfanarrestaurant.com) located along Canal Walk in Festival City. You can dine outside on floor cushions at the traditional majlis or at a table in the central courtyard area that looks like a traditional Emirati home. The food is fresh and hearty with dishes such as chicken machboos, grilled shaari fish and jesheed (baby shark with onions and punchy spices).

Another place which has started to pull in its fair share of local Emiratis (always a good sign) is Al Barza (+971 4 343 5310) on Jumeirah Beach Road. The setting is a modern take on the traditional architecture of the region, but the food is undeniably authentic – here you can try camel meat, at its best in a burger.

Camel is also on the menu at Aseelah (+971 4 205 7333, radissonblu.com/hotel-dubaideiracreek) at Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek. In addition to listing traditional dishes on the menu (like samak, a local fish in gravy served with date rice) are dishes made using local ingredients (including camel stew and Arabian lobster).

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353 6666, cultures.ae) offers interactive ‘cultural meals’ – so named because guests are encouraged to ask questions on anything that relates to the Emirati culture – prepared by local chefs in order to preserve the traditions and customs of the Bedouin culture.

WIDER (ANDWONDERFUL) ARAbIC

While Emirati food may be thin on the ground, wider Arabic certainly isn’t. Famed Lebanese import Em Sherif (+971 4 424 3000, emsherif.com), which you'll find at ground level of the Address Downtown Dubai, offers

superb views of Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain to add to a fixed-price dinner menu (Dhs320) which sees hot and cold mezzes, mains of tender, charcoal-grilled meats and desserts arrive at your table in a near endless flow. Meanwhile Olea (+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates prides itself on authentic cuisine, thanks to its 14-strong team of chefs from Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine. Highlights include the lamb kofta, served on a 1.5-metre-long skewer.

For an atmospheric Arabian Desert experience, head to Al Hadheerah (+971 4 809 6194, meydanhotels.com) at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa, about 30 minutes’ drive from Downtown Dubai. Designed like an oasis town, guests at the open-air restaurant are entertained under the stars by falconry displays, camel rides, belly dancers, musicians and a spinning tanoura dancer. There’s also an impressive buffet overflowing with hot and cold mezze.

CELEbRITy-CHEFS' RESTAURANTS

Michelin-starred chefs have long been coming to Dubai to hawk their wares.

Having been one of the first celebrity chefs to open a restaurant in Dubai (the now defunct Verre by Gordon Ramsay, back in 2001), firebrand Gordon Ramsay has returned to the emirate with Bread Street Kitchen & Bar (+971 4 426 2000, atlantisthepalm.com) at Atlantis, The Palm. Here, the menu, though for the most part international, makes more than a nod to Ramsay’s homeland, but the fact that it has a bit of everything makes it a never-fail option for families. Don’t be swayed by Ramsay’s name into thinking that this is a fine dining and, by extension, expensive restaurant. This is more gastro pub and good value, too.

Another Brit chef to cause a stir in Dubai’s bubbling pot of great restaurants is Jason Atherton, who has Marina Social (+971 4 446 6777, ihg.com) at InterContinental Dubai Marina. Atherton’s Social concept has won an army of fans in London, and


while this Dubai offshoot hasn't yet hit the same dizzy heights it's still a great spot, particularly if you snag a table on the terrace.

Nobu in Atlantis, The Palm (+971 4 426 2000, atlantisthepalm.com) meanwhile, offers a Peruvian twist on dishes that have made the Japanese master chef’s restaurant chain the toast of celebrities the world over. This Nobu boasts a unique garden, which is a great place to dine under the stars.

Also on Palm Jumeirah is STAY by Yannick Alléno, at One&Only The Palm (+971 4 440 1010, thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.com). The restaurant’s interior drips with opulence, which is matched by the elaborate, indulgent dishes on offer such as roasted milk-fed veal tenderloin or spit-roasted whole sea bass. Serious foodies should opt for the signature Extractions Pairing menu; instead of using traditional methods of making sauces, Alléno spent two years developing a new way to prepare sauces that results in incredibly intense flavours.

For a luxe contemporary dining experience from the subcontinent, head to Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar at JW Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com). Here, the menu sings with a cacophony of flavour and creativity, and we heartily recommend the very well-priced grazing menu. Every bite is a delight.

Lastly, Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire (+971 4 701 1111, pierre-gagnaire.com) at InterContinental Dubai Festival City remains the most renowned restaurant in Dubai. The Frenchman makes a point of visiting his restaurant at least once a year (more than most), and the chefs onsite have all been trained by him personally. It shows. The ever-changing menus are exquisite examples of fusion fare.

LoveLy Latin american

Just like other cities across the world, Dubai is currently in love with Peruvian food. In fact, a few of the city’s hot-right-now restaurants serve authentic examples of this fabulous cuisine, which

puts melt-in-your-mouth meat to good use as much as the freshest fish. While you’ll be right to love Coya (+971 4 316 9600, coyarestaurant.com) at the Four Seasons Dubai, we have a thing for the more casual Garden (+971 56 224 0956, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. Here the chef is Peruvian, the staff are fully knowledgeable of what they’re serving, and the vibe relaxed.

Save room in your affections too for Inka (+971 4 346 9295, inkadubai.com) at Sofitel Downtown Dubai. The intimate dining room is complemented by super nice staff and a lounge area that’s perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks (and fine views of Burj Khalifa), while their chilli-laced rocoto ceviche and chicken anticuchos are divine.

Hoping to follow where all have succeeded so far is newcomer Totora Cebicheria Peruana (totora.com) at Gate Village, DIFC. A restaurant and bar set over two floors, the high-end offerings here are created from Peruvian ingredients and balance beautifully with an inventive cocktail list. Get here before the It Crowd takes over.

Gut bustinG brunches

In the bigger-is-better city of Dubai, the word ‘brunch’ takes on a very different meaning. Here, brunch is not a laidback mid-morning meal with a friend in a nice café; it is an all-you-can-eat, all-you-can-drink Friday lunchtime feast that involves cuisines from every corner of the globe, live music, and sometimes even acrobatics. A Dubai brunch isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, and something everyone needs to try at least once during their holiday. We could devote an entire chapter to brunch, such is the broadness of the offering, but you will have to settle for a few of our current choice picks...

Long regarded as one of the best brunches in town, Traiteur (+971 4 602 1814, dubai.park.hyatt.com) at Park Hyatt Dubai is not to be missed. Overlooking the Creek, diners wander between live cooking stations serving up freshly shucked Fine de Claire

oysters, spit-roast lamb and beef, grilled lobster and shrimp, as well as homemade desserts, crêpes and waffles. Leave room for some morsels from the 'Temple of Cheese' where sommelier Remi Torres can assist you with Portuguese grape pairing. From 12:30pm–4:00pm, Dhs695 per person including house beverages and sparkling grape; Dhs775 with the addition of free-flowing bubbly.

Another sophisticated option is the Share & Social Brunch at Marina Social (+971 4 446 6664, marinasocialdubai.com). Whereas most of Dubai's brunch options will see you roaming aimlessly, plate in hand, amidst a mind-boggling spread of food, here the food (all of it excellent) is brought to your table. A drinks-laden trolley will also come your way, pushed

this PaGe: Thiptara


by an expert mixologist. Reopening after a break during Ramadan is Peruvian hotspot, Garden (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com). Head here on Saturdays for the relaxed ‘Brunch Upon a Time’, which features favourites such as ceviche, beef empanadas, chicken saltado, quinoa risotto and lemon tart, just to list a few from the menu. There’s live music from house band, N2L, followed by old school hip-hop and RnB from DJ Stutter. It runs from12:30pm-4pm, from Dhs185 per person.

peRFeCtpizzas

For a quick and casual meal, you can’t look past a pizza. Dubai has plenty of places serving up crisp crusts and superlative sourdough bases with

asK a top CheFRory Duncan, La Petite Maison

My favourite restaurant in Dubai is Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire (+971 4 701 1111, pierre-gagnaire.com) at InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Always consistent and always using top quality products, I've never been disappointed when I've dined there.

nary a pineapple in sight. The upstairs pizzeria at Bussola (+971 4 511 7136, bussoladubai.com) at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi has long been a favourite. Crusts are thin and crispy and toppings generous, with over 30 varieties to choose from. The open kitchen, complete with chefs tossing dough into the air, adds to the welcome atmosphere.

For a crisp, yet foldable New York-style pie that pays homage to its Neapolitan roots, say hi to The Pizza Guys (800 843 4897, thepizzaguys.ae) at Bay Avenue in Business Bay. There are five signature pizzas, all of which are hand-tossed and finished with Italian extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil and parmigiano reggiano. Our tip? Pull up a stool at the communal counter and order The Godfather

(Dhs60) with wagyu beef meatballs and melted fior di latte mozzarella. Bellissimo. If you still want to squeeze into your swimsuit, Nonno (800 696 66 66, nonnopizza.com) is a chic pizzeria, also in Business Bay, specialising in paper-thin crusts with no sugar or salt. Sauces are made from scratch and go straight from blender to base, toppings are super fresh and some pizzas come in at less than 400 calories. That doesn’t mean they’re boring, though. Try the Absolutely Fabulous (Dhs48) with slow-roasted free-range chicken.

Down in JLT, Jazz@Pizza Express (+971 4 441 6342, pizzaexpressuae.com) remains a popular pizza joint. For anyone familiar with the UK brand there are no surprises in store, but the pizzas are fresh, flavoursome and a cut above your average chain.


DinneR with an inCReDibLe View

Just off a jetty that juts out into the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf on the westernmost tip of Palm Jumeirah lies 101 Dining Lounge and Bar at One&Only The Palm Dubai (+971 440 1010, thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.com). From here you get to drink in picture-perfect views of Dubai Marina and Burj Al Arab while enjoying sublime contemporary European fare from a menu that has been rubber-stamped by French super-chef Yannick Alléno – including the softest squid we’ve ever tasted. The whole experience can be heightened by catching a boat to the restaurant from sister hotel One&Only Royal Mirage. Booking is essential, as is a pre-boarding drink in the wonderful Jetty Lounge.

If you want a fine vantage point to see the Dubai Fountain dance its way toward the night sky – and believe us, you do – book a table at Thiptara (+971 4 888 3444, theaddress.com) at The Palace Downtown Dubai. The name Thiptara means 'magic at the water' and the traditional Thai recipes with Bangkok-style influences are as magical as the setting.

Nothing tops the view of Burj Khalifa that's served up – along with incredibly good food – at Katana (+971 427 78808, katana-dubai.com). Hailing from LA's sunset strip – Katana specialises in the ‘robatayaki’ style of authentic Japanese cuisine, whereby bamboo skewered gourmet fish, meat and vegetables are grilled over a charcoal-induced open flame. It's fabulous.

How about dining as if under the sea? Of course it’s possible: this is Dubai. A whole-wall aquarium forms the backdrop to a meal at the excellent Ossiano (+971 4 426 2000, atlantisthepalm.com) at Atlantis, The Palm. Your credit card will enjoy a good workout here, but hey, you’re on holiday.

For something altogether different try a dinner as you float down Dubai Creek in a boat-turned-restaurant, taking in the sights of 'old' Dubai as you feast on fine dining dishes like baked

chermoula prawns with a wonderful ginger and coriander couscous. This is Bateaux Dubai (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com), where boarding is at 7.45pm nightly and disembarking at 11pm. Take advantage of their special summer rates of Dhs295 for the soft drink package (usually Dhs415) and Dhs395 for unlimited house beverages (usually Dhs520), which are valid until August 31.

DininG at the MaLL

Follow the locals’ lead and head to one of Dubai’s famous malls for a bite to eat in air-conditioned comfort (in between bouts of retail therapy, of course). Alongside the food courts, many malls have excellent casual eateries that are especially popular during the hot summer months.

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by The Dubai Mall, but when shopping fatigue kicks in, make a beeline to Circle Café (+971 4 338 0049, circle-cafe.com), on the ground floor next to the Waterfall, and you won’t be disappointed. Established in 2003 with an emphasis on fresh produce, this homegrown success story – there are now six cafés across the city – has an extensive menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner favourites, from an Arabic breakfast platter with halloumi za’atar and foul medames (fava beans) to superfood salad and peri peri prawns.

Social House (+971 4 339 8640) is another crowd-pleaser, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the Dubai Fountain and menu divided into flavours from East and West. Choose from soups, sushi, salads, small plates or more substantial meals like the excellent Thai green curry or osso busco.

Meanwhile, Lafayette Gourmet (+971 4 345 5444, galerieslafayette- dubai.com), a posh food hall on the second level of French department store Galeries Lafayette, has individual stations serving everything fromMediterranean salads and Moroccan tagines to oysters and caviar.

Spanning over 36,000sqm, the


THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT:Garden; Al Falamanki nExT PAGE: 101 Dining Lounge & Bar

third-floor extension of the Mall of the Emirates has some of its best casual restaurants. Leading the way is Taiwanese steamed dumpling chain, Din Tai Fung (+971 4 265 1288). The chicken xialongbao (soup dumplings), red bean sticky rice dessert and Chinese Oolong tea – with free refills – are worth the inevitable wait at this popular spot.

Next to Vox Cinemas and hailing from New York, Dean & Deluca (+971 4 419 0830, deandeluca.com) dishes up everything from American classics such as a Philly steak sandwich to Arabian dishes like mourabian, a prawn stew with spicy tomato sauce served with rice. There’s also a tempting breakfast menu including their signature fatayers (Middle Eastern pastry parcels stuffed with ingredients such as lamb or spinach).

DIvInE DIM SuM, AnD THEn SOME

No self-respecting cosmopolitan city can call itself a self-respecting cosmopolitan city unless it has a Hakkasan (+971 4 384 8484,

hakkasan.com). Happily, Dubai does (at Jumeirah Emirates Towers) and the high-end chain doesn’t disappoint with its chic contemporary Chinese décor, expertly-made dim sum and oh-so fashionable bar.

Shang Palace (+971 4 405 2703, shangri-la.com) at the Shangri-La Dubai is an old favourite which never fluctuates from serving up outstanding examples of Cantonese cuisine: case in point, the signature cod fish with grapes and well-balanced orange sauce.

If you’re feeling decadent, head to Shiba (+971 4 381 3111, meydanhotels.com) at The Meydan Hotel. Chinese meets Japanese on the menu here, with some superb examples of big-hitting dishes from each – the never-fail miso-marinated black cod reprenting Japan; the stir-fried fresh scallops with a tongue-numbing XO sauce in the Chinese corner.

For a budget-friendly, brilliant and authentic Chinese restaurant experience, head to China Sea (+971 4 295 9816) in Deira – opt for the Peking duck before heading upstairs for karaoke. It's an experience.


soMewheRe siMpLe with younG KiDs

Eating at your hotel can be expensive – especially if you have a whole family to feed – but fear not: Dubai has plenty of options for good value, great quality fare. Ideal for tiny tots is bookstore-slash-café BookMunch in Al Wasl Square (+971 4 388 4006, bookmunchcafe.com). It serves up tasty treats (try the blueberry pancakes) and stocks plenty of children’s books, ensuring your kids get food for thought as well as the belly. Bystro (+971 336 8056, bystrodubai.com) on Sheikh Zayed Road offers a special kids’ corner featuring mini tables and chairs, as well as toys and books. The food will please kids and adults alike; choose from sandwiches, great breakfast options, weekend roasts, and – intriguingly – dinosaur ribs.

Baker & Spice’s (+971 4 362 4686, bakerandspice.com) Marina Promenade location in Dubai Marina is arguably the pick of the chain’s four venues in the city – you'll get to enjoy views of the yachts while eating tasty home-style dishes, the ingredients for which are often drawn from local farms.

There’s no dedicated kids’ menu here, but on offer are smaller portions of main dishes, including a fine spaghetti and meatballs.

Over at Italian restaurant Sapori Di Bice (+971 4 344 2550, saporidibice.com) at City Walk, kids get to create their own pizzas, with multiple fun-shaped bases on offer.

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for somewhere to eat with your baby, try Pantry Café (+971 4 388 3868, pantrycafe.me) on Al Wasl Road. While you enjoy wholesome, locally-sourced food, your baby will get messy sucking on free veggie puree.

With its seaside location at The Beach JBR and double-height dining space lined with bookshelves, Big Chefs (+971 4 5515302, bigchefs.co) has a stylish, yet homely feel. The huge menu has over 145 dishes across a multitude of cuisines, from Turkish and Arabic to Tex-Mex and European, along with a separate kids’ menu, meaning you’re bound to find something for even the fussiest of eaters. Just be sure they leave room for dessert – the Oreo Nutella cheesecake is one your kids won’t want to share.

FoR soMeFaMiLy Fun

As mentioned elsewhere, The Beach at JBR is a great place to head for a family dinner. But there are other places worthy of your attention, particularly if your kids are that little bit older. If you tend to take an age to decide what to order, then Burger & Lobster (+971 4 514 8838, burgerandlobster.com) at Burj Daman Building, DIFC, is the place to head. Here, you have only three choices, each priced at Dhs127: whole lobster (steamed or grilled) with chips and salad; lobster roll with chips and salad; or beef burger (cooked medium or well done) with, you guessed it, chips and salad. Despite the brevity of options, it’s actually difficult to decide as all three are top notch (the burger’s big and packed with flavour), but if you pushed us we’d recommend the whole lobster. Not only is the meat supremely succulent, but it’s also great fun to don a bib and get to work with your claw cracker. You’ll love the vibrant atmosphere here, too.

You’ll find Crab Tavern (+971 4 420 7489, crabtavern.ae) at Media One Hotel in Dubai Media City. Crab, you’ve guessed it, is the house speciality here, and it comes served many ways – in pasta, as a fish cake, or, best of all, the soft-shell variety comes in a burger laced with red pepper jam. Of the same ilk is Claw BBQ (+971 4 432 2300, clawbbq.com) in Souq Al Bahar, although it’s a tad more raucous than Crab Tavern thanks to its eating competitions and live band.

They’ve been known to queue out of the door to snag a table at Slider Station (600 544 005, sliderstation.com) in the Galleria Mall on Al Wasl Road, which proudly claims to be the world’s first conveyor-belt burger joint. It’s much more than that, offering a fun American tapas menu (the likes of sticky red onion rings and Coca Cola-braised short ribs) to complement décor based on a 1940s American petrol station. Grab a gourmet slider from its unique, if small, conveyor belt – we say reach for the so-called Dangerous, featuring buttermilk fried chicken, jalapeno and chimichurri aioli.

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niCe anD spiCy

An offshoot of its New York-based, Michelin-star toting elder sibling, Junoon (+971 4 405 2717, junoonrestaurants.com) at Shangri-La Dubai is a standout example of how, when it’s done as well as this, there are few finer cuisines than Indian when it comes to robust flavour combinations. Let your waiter guide you through the must-haves (there are many) but have stern words if he fails to mention the Shahi Lamb Shank – as tender a meat as you’ll ever try, it comes, teased from the bone at your table, with a beautifully balanced black cumin rose curry. You’ll also adore the Macchi Masala: pan-roasted, flake-at-the-touch-of-a-fork artic char that’s coated in a wonderful green chili coriander marinade.

Tong Thai at JW Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com), meanwhile, showcases unique regional Thai dishes alongside street food favourites and authentic yet inventive classics we all know and love. Regularly voted the best Thai restaurant in the city, signature curries like creamy Panang Kung with tiger prawns and Gai Phad Ka-Prao with chili and hot basil pack plenty of depth and flavour, while classics like Tom Yum and Pad See-Eiw have been honed to perfection. The dining room itself is glorious riot of red and orange hues, with glittering lanterns suspended from the ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Business Bay, albeit only from the fourth floor.

FoR Dubai’s answeR to stReet FooD

With gourmet food trucks rolling out across Dubai at an astonishing rate, there’s bound to be one on the tarmac (or sand) near you. Stalwart Ghaf Kitchen (+971 4 443 0355, ghafkitchen.com) was the first restaurant-on-wheels concept in the city and serves a variety of British classics with a decadent twist, all supplied from a lovingly restored retro Citroen H van. The truck travels to various events across the city so keep an eye on its Facebook and Twitter

accounts to discover where it's at. Shiny new truck Calle Tacos (+971 55 171 5712, calletacos.ae) dishes up street-side tacos, nachos and burritos complete with utterly delicious salsa – handmade from a secret family recipe. Look out for the bright orange truck at Ripe Market, Dubai World Trade Centre, and many of the city's big festivals – it's hard to miss.

Another one to add to the list is the hugely popular Salt (instagram.com/FindSalt). With its silver Airstream parked permanently at Kite Beach alongside an air-conditioned glass-walled terrace, it serves just three types of gourmet sliders packed with flavour. There’s also a mobile truck that pops up at Dubai’s coolest events – follow it on Instagram to get the exact location while you're in town.

Also along Jumeirah Beach Road, and at the opposite end of the glitz in Dubai's dining spectrum, is Bu Qtair (+971 55 705 2130), which has drawn a devoted following for more than two decades. While it’s recently upgraded from its original beach shack to a simple restaurant in the nearby fishing harbour, it continues to attract crowds who queue for the freshest prawns and catch of the day, both of which are served with curry sauce, rice and bread

so you Can say you’Ve been theRe

If you only know a handful of things about Dubai, one may be that it’s the home of Burj Al Arab, that most famous of hotels. You’ll doubtless leave Dubai with a picture of yourself posing


GRape eXpeCtationsAlcohol is only served in restaurants based within licensed premises, which basically means a hotel. A handful of exceptions include restaurants based at DIFC. Where sold, you'll likely find wine expensive.

The emphasis at Burger Joint New York (+971 4 344 4459, burgerjointny.com), which you’ll find at City Walk, is on quality alone, with the options limited to just hamburgers and cheeseburgers. Their meat is minced on the premises to ensure consistency of flavour.

Moylo’s (+971 4 388 3140, moylosburgers.com) is a homegrown, hole-in-the-wall joint on Jumeirah Beach Road, just down from Sunset Mall. Quirky and colourful with an industrial edge, it features a wire counter covered in padlocks customised by patrons (including one by Dubai’s Crown Price, Sheikh Hamdan). There are five burgers to choose from, including the new Truffle Shuffle with 100% Wagyu Beef and homemade truffle mayo. Scumptious.

against a backdrop of it, but why not go the whole hog and dine there? The best way to experience the culinary offering of the Burj is via its Culinary Flight: your dinner begins with a cocktail at Skyview Bar before you embark on a journey through five grape-paired courses at five different restaurants. The food is superb and the service exceptional. You'll perhaps only find fault with the changing ambience (from the perfect to the poor) as you move through restaurants. It costs Dhs1,350 per person from 7pm-midnight.

You’ll need to book ahead to dine at the world’s highest restaurant, which spans much of level 122 of the Burj Khalifa, but you’ll be glad you’ve done so. You arrive at At.mosphere (+971 4 888 3828, atmosphereburjkhalifa.com) via the world's fastest elevator, before

settling down in the swankiest of settings to enjoy the finest cuts of meat and fish to grace a menu.

biG, beautiFuLbuRGeRs

Brilliant burgers aren’t confined to the menus of Dubai’s hotel-based restaurants. In fact, the city’s best burgers are served in stand-alone venues. This is certainly true of Burger Fuel (+971 4 445 8220, burgerfuel.com), which has various branches across the city – the best of which, due to it being beside the sea, is at The Walk, JBR. The concept is 100% New Zealand grass-fed beef, a 1/3 pound patty of which is chargrilled to perfection and placed within a wholemeal bun. Thereafter, you can pick multiple extras to stuff inside.


asK a top CheFTimothy Newton, Bistrot Bagatelle

Aside from Bistrot Bagatelle - I recommend our truffle chicken with foie gras - I like to dine at La Petite Maison (+971 4 439 0505, lpmlondon.co.uk/dubai) and Ronda Locatelli (+971 4 426 2626, atlantisthepalm.com) because the food is amazing.

heaD to pieR 7

It’s a pier, it has 7 floors. That’s the reason for its name covered off. But what’s of real note here is that each floor is devoted to a different-style restaurant. It’s also the only licensed premises on Marina Walk in Dubai Marina. And so to the good stuff...

The Scene (+971 422 2328, thescenedubai.com) by TV chef and serial author Simon Rimmer is the frontrunner here. British-style comfort food is the jist of it – think succulent, deep-filled pies, feather-light battered fish and chunky chips – but if you want something less filling, the grilled halloumi, pear and salted hazelnut salad is delicious.

No prizes for guessing the cuisine cooked up at the excellent Asia Asia (+971 4 276 5900, asia-asia.com), but there might be a prize if you can find a dish, anywhere, that tickles your tastebuds as much as their tiger prawn Kerala masala. Meanwhile, if you want a side order of animated atmosphere with your mains of slow-cooked prime beef back ribs, then head to Cargo (+971 4 361 8129, cargo-dubai.com).

pReVious paGe, CLoCKwise FRoM top LeFt:Katana; Eloquent Elephant; Firebird Dinerthis paGe: Boca


it's aLLGReeK to Me

If you’re hankering for some Hellenic flavours, you’ll be pleased to learn that, while Dubai is not exactly overflowing with Greek restaurants, it does boast some truly excellent ones. In-the-know locals will point you towards Elia (+971 4 359 8888, dubaimajestic.com), a cosy restaurant with a lovely glass terrace surrounded by greenery in the somewhat incongruous setting of the Majestic Hotel in bustling Bur Dubai. In the kitchen is Cretan head chef, Poppy Kourkoutaki, while charming restaurant manager (and fellow Crete local), Margianna Mavridou, heads up the front of house team. The menu by Elia’s celebrity chef consultant, Yiannis Baxevanis, is divided into Greek classics – the cheese saganaki and chicken souvlaki are stand-outs – and more contemporary interpretations such as slow-cooked veal cheeks with eggplant puree. Don’t leave without trying the freshly baked carob bread.

From the same team, Mythos Kouzina & Grill (+971 4 399 8166, mythoskouzina.com) feels like a little slice of Santorini hidden away in JLT’s Armada Bay Hotel. Kitted out like a traditional seaside taverna with whitewashed walls, rustic furniture and light blue banquettes, the simple menu is a mix of traditional dishes such as keftedakia (meatballs) and grilled calamari, together with home-style favourites like mousaka and gigandes (butter beans). The word is out about this well-priced gem, so be sure to book ahead.

Down at The Beach at JBR, Eat Greek Kouzina (+971 4 430 5249, eatgreekkouzina.com) has a more urban feel with distressed wood floors, exposed brickwork, and a beautiful sea view. The large menu has all the classics, including salads, hot and cold appetisers, gyros and souvlaki stuffed pittas, as well as mixed grills, seafood, fish, lamb and even burgers. It’s open for breakfast from 8.30am, and there’s a second branch in the Mall of the Emirates, too.

top tapas

With an open kitchen, funky murals and baskets hanging from the high ceilings, Salero Tapas & Bodega (+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates looks more hipster eatery than traditional tapas joint. However, the all-Spanish staff, led by head chef Oscar Leon, ensure the no-nonsense, garlic-smothered tapas are entirely authentic. There’s a great selection of hot and cold tapas such as Galician-style octopus and pork cold cuts, along with three types of paella and a separate kids’ menu. The vibe is relaxed and casual, with flamenco on Wednesdays from 8pm and a resident DJ.

Casa de Tapas (+971 4 416 1800, casadetapas.ae) at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club has lovely views over the Creek and a large upside-down lemon tree sprouting from the ceiling. The menu is packed with classics, including Spanish omelette and garlicky steamed clams, along with more inventive dishes such as paella de fideua (made with angel hair pasta, squid ink and prawns) – reportedly the only place in Dubai where this delicacy is served.

BOCA (+971 4 323 1833, boca.ae) in DIFC, meanwhile, strays from Spain to include sharing plates from Italy and France on its menu too. From Med staples such as sweet Padrón peppers and grilled sardines to 12-hour braised lamb and lobster ravioli, dishes are served as they’re ready making for a relaxed, grazing-style meal. The menu also has a raw section with carpaccios, crudos and tartars, along with a 22-strong list of grape available by the glass. Choose a spot at the buzzing bar or outdoor terrace, or head down to the cellar for a food and grape pairing experience hosted by the sommelier.

CooL CaFés

Craving a good cup of coffee or a slap-up breakfast? Newly opened at City Walk, the al fresco shopping and dining district in Jumeirah, The Brass (+971 4 385 6971, thebrass.ae) features gorgeous golden interiors and an extensive menu of speciality brews such as lavender honey lattes and Arabic coffee flavoured with cardamom, along with pastries, cakes, salads, sandwiches and flatbreads.

Meanwhile, The Majlis Dubai (themajlisdubai.com) in the grounds of Jumeirah Mosque bills itself as the city’s “first and finest camel milk café”. Come here to try the signature camelccino or camellatte made with specially roasted Ethiopian coffee beans and deliciously smooth camel milk, along with Arabic coffee served from a traditional dallah pot, and muffins, éclairs and ice cream made from, you guessed it, camel milk.

Leading the way when it comes to hipster cafés, The Sum of Us (+971 56 445 7526, thesumofusdubai.com) in the Burj Al Salam building behind the Sheraton Hotel has industrial-chic interiors, a sourdough bakery and its own coffee roastery. As you can imagine, it smells pretty good – throw in an inviting menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes, such as French toast with salted caramel sauce or Parmesan crusted chicken breast, and you can see why it’s one of Dubai’s most popular spots (open daily from 8am–10pm). If you’re in need of sustenance between bouts of shopping at the Mall of the Emirates, stop by sister café, Common Grounds (+971 5 0478 1094), near the Vox cinema, for top-notch coffee, superfood salads and delicious burgers and baguettes.


Arabian Adventures Information Desks 3 Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr 5 Atlantis, The Palm 4 Anantara The Palm 9 Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel12 Fairmont The Palm13 Grand Hyatt Dubai 16 Hilton Dubai Jumeriah Resort 17 Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Residence18 Hyatt Regency Dubai 20 JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort 23 Jumeirah Beach Hotel25 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray28 JA Oasis Beach Tower 31 Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa33 Madinat Jumeirah Mina A’Salam 36 One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai

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PLEASE NOTE This illustration of Dubai is not drawn to scale and bears no accurate perspective to anything. Illustrated by Russ North Copyright 2014 Emirates©

Metro (red line) Metro (green line) Shopping11 Rashidiya

12 Emirates

13 Terminal 3

14 Terminal 1

15 GGICO

16 Deira City Centre

17 Al Rigga

18 Union Square

19 BurJuman

20 ADCB

21 Al Jafiliya

22 World Trade Centre

23 Emirates Towers

24 Financial Centre

25 Burj Khalifa / The Dubai Mall

26 Business Bay

29 Noor Bank

31 FGB

32 Mall of Emirates

33 Sharaf DG

34 Dubai Internet City

35 Nakheel

36 DAMAC Properties

37 Jumeirah Lakes Towers

38 Nakheel Harbour & Tower

39 Ibn Batuta Mall

40 Energy

41 Jebel Ali Industrial

42 UAE Exchange

11 Etisalat

12 Al Qusais

13 DAFZA

14 Al Nahda

15 Stadium

16 Al Qiyadah

17 Abu Hail

18 Abu Baker Al Siddique

19 Salah Al Din

20 Union

21 Baniyas Square

22 Palm Deira

23 Al Ras

24 Al Ghubaiba

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1 Al Dhiyafa Centre

2 Al Ghurair City

3 Al Khaleej Centre

4 Al Mazaya Centre

5 Al Mulla Plaza

6 Al Rais Centre

7 Beach Centre

8 Bin Sougat

9 BurJuman Centre


11 Deira Gold Souk

12 Dragon Mart

13 The Dubai Mall

14 Dubai Outlet Mall

15 Emirates Towers Boulevard

16 Dubai Festival City

17 Dubai Marina Mall

18 Hamarain Centre

19 Ibn Batuta Mall

20 Jumeirah Centre

21 Jumeriah Plaza

22 Festival Centre

23 Lamcy Plaza

24 Lulu Centre

25 Mall of the Emirates

26 Mercato Mall

27 Mirdif City Centre

28 Oasis Centre

29 Palm Strip

30 Reef Mall

31 Souk Al Bahar

32 Souk Madinat Jumeirah

33 Wafi City Mall

20

To Sharjah

To Jebel Ali >

Jebel Ali Palm >

To Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa >

To Al Ain

Dubai World Central >

B U R D U B A I

J U M E I R A H

A L S A T W A

Public Beach

Business Bay

Meydan

U M M S U Q E I M A L B A R S H A

A L Q U O Z

A L S U F O U H

Palm Jumeirah Dubai Marina

Public Beach

The World

RTA Ferry

D E I R AH O R A L A N Z

M I R D I F

R A S H I D I Y A

A L T W A R

M U H A I S N A H

N A D A L S H E B A

Z A’ A B E E L

Dubai International Airport

Burj Khalifa >

At The Top

Sports City

Dubai Autodrome

Arabian Ranches

Global Village

IMG Theme Park

SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN ZAYED ROAD

Emirates Road

AL KHAIL ROAD

< SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

SHEIKH RASHID ROAD >

AL ITTIHAD ROAD

AL AIN ROAD

Port Rashid

Dubai Creek

50 Arabian Adventures Sheikh Zayed Road

12


Arabian Adventures Information Desks 3 Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr 5 Atlantis, The Palm 4 Anantara The Palm 9 Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel12 Fairmont The Palm13 Grand Hyatt Dubai 16 Hilton Dubai Jumeriah Resort 17 Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Residence18 Hyatt Regency Dubai 20 JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort 23 Jumeirah Beach Hotel25 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray28 JA Oasis Beach Tower 31 Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa33 Madinat Jumeirah Mina A’Salam 36 One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai

13

50

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333

5

4

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36

12 31

9

1617

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PLEASE NOTE This illustration of Dubai is not drawn to scale and bears no accurate perspective to anything. Illustrated by Russ North Copyright 2014 Emirates©

Metro (red line) Metro (green line) Shopping11 Rashidiya

12 Emirates

13 Terminal 3

14 Terminal 1

15 GGICO


17 Al Rigga

18 Union Square

19 BurJuman

20 ADCB

21 Al Jafiliya

22 World Trade Centre

23 Emirates Towers

24 Financial Centre

25 Burj Khalifa / The Dubai Mall

26 Business Bay

29 Noor Bank

31 FGB

32 Mall of Emirates

33 Sharaf DG

34 Dubai Internet City

35 Nakheel

36 DAMAC Properties

37 Jumeirah Lakes Towers

38 Nakheel Harbour & Tower

39 Ibn Batuta Mall

40 Energy

41 Jebel Ali Industrial

42 UAE Exchange

11 Etisalat

12 Al Qusais

13 DAFZA

14 Al Nahda

15 Stadium

16 Al Qiyadah

17 Abu Hail

18 Abu Baker Al Siddique

19 Salah Al Din

20 Union

21 Baniyas Square

22 Palm Deira

23 Al Ras

24 Al Ghubaiba

25 Al Fahidi

26 BurJuman

27 Oud Metha

28 Dubai Healthcare City

29 Al Jadaf

30 Creek

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1 Al Dhiyafa Centre

2 Al Ghurair City

3 Al Khaleej Centre

4 Al Mazaya Centre

5 Al Mulla Plaza

6 Al Rais Centre

7 Beach Centre

8 Bin Sougat

9 BurJuman Centre


11 Deira Gold Souk

12 Dragon Mart

13 The Dubai Mall

14 Dubai Outlet Mall

15 Emirates Towers Boulevard

16 Dubai Festival City

17 Dubai Marina Mall

18 Hamarain Centre

19 Ibn Batuta Mall

20 Jumeirah Centre

21 Jumeriah Plaza

22 Festival Centre

23 Lamcy Plaza

24 Lulu Centre

25 Mall of the Emirates

26 Mercato Mall

27 Mirdif City Centre

28 Oasis Centre

29 Palm Strip

30 Reef Mall

31 Souk Al Bahar

32 Souk Madinat Jumeirah

33 Wafi City Mall

20

To Sharjah

To Jebel Ali >

Jebel Ali Palm >

To Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa >

To Al Ain

Dubai World Central >

B U R D U B A I

J U M E I R A H

A L S A T W A

Public Beach

Business Bay

Meydan

U M M S U Q E I M A L B A R S H A

A L Q U O Z

A L S U F O U H

Palm Jumeirah Dubai Marina

Public Beach

The World

RTA Ferry

D E I R AH O R A L A N Z

M I R D I F

R A S H I D I Y A

A L T W A R

M U H A I S N A H

N A D A L S H E B A

Z A’ A B E E L

Dubai International Airport

Burj Khalifa >

At The Top

Sports City

Dubai Autodrome

Arabian Ranches

Global Village

IMG Theme Park

SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN ZAYED ROAD

Emirates Road

AL KHAIL ROAD

< SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD

SHEIKH RASHID ROAD >

AL ITTIHAD ROAD

AL AIN ROAD

Port Rashid

Dubai Creek

50 Arabian Adventures Sheikh Zayed Road

12

City

MAP


inCReDibLe VaLue inDian & paKistani

Since Indians and Pakistanis account for the biggest expat community in Dubai, it comes as little surprise that the city is awash with an abundance of Indian and Pakistani cuisine – much of it very cheap and delicious. That’s particularly true of Saravanaa Bhavan (+971 4 334 5252) in Karama, whose vegetable curries pack in brilliant flavour and cost an average Dhs15. Also in Karama is Calicut Paragon (+971 4 449 8560, paragonrestaurant.net), which serves curried Keralan seafood specialities, while Rangoli Vegetarian Restaurant (+971 4 351 5873, rangolirestaurants.com) in Meena Bazaar, Bur Dubai, serves food hailing from the Gujarati region of India (imagine platters upon platters of delicious thali, which just keep on coming). The Dubai institution that is Ravi Restaurant (+971 4 331 5353) in Satwa serves Pakistani-style curries, with favourites including chicken achar, keema fry and chicken methi. These places are strictly no frills, but when the curries are so good and such great value, who cares?

Fast, FiLLinG nooDLes (anD a bit MoRe besiDes)

The Noodle House (+971 4 366 6730, thenoodlehouse.com) is a real homegrown success story, and is the go-to place for steaming hot bowls of fragrantly-spiced pad thai and myriad other dishes inspired by the street foods of Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bangkok and Jakarta. The dishes are never-fail and good value to boot, which makes it a great option for families – it even has a funky kids’ menu, comprising the likes of wok-fried satay chicken noodles. You’ll find branches of The Noodle House across the city, including one at Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

The menu at Veda Pavilion (+971 4 361 8845, emiratesleisureretail.com) on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah moves beyond Far Eastern staples to include a head-popping free-range chicken vindaloo. As such, everyone in your dining party is likely to find something that really hits the spot here.

suMptuous seaFooD

While most menus these days feature ample fish dishes, restaurants which specialise in serving up our fishy friends are in surprisingly short supply across Dubai. That’s one of the reasons why Catch (+971 4 357 1755, catch.ae) was so warmly received by locals – and remains one of the hottest tables in town with an atmosphere to match. Hailing from NYC, the other good reason that this contemporary American seafood restaurant finds favour is, of course, its food. You can have your fish in a number of ways, but you don’t need to look beyond the simple grilled version. If you only have time to eat out once or twice while

you're here, make Catch a must-dine. For classic seaside favourites at a

reasonable price, stop by The MAINE (+971 4 457 6719, themaine.ae) at the DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR. Part American brasserie and part European bistro, the unpretentious venue features a raw bar overflowing with fresh oysters, ceviche and seafood towers, along with grilled steak, chops and a variety of vegetarian dishes. With touches of nautical glamour and a seafront-facing terrace, it’s also a top spot to head for relaxed sundowners.

heaVenLy hiGh tea

From traditional afternoon tea to more contemporary offerings, Dubai upholds


iF you booK just one pLaCe whiLe you'Re heRe this Month, MaKe it...Share & Social Brunch, Marina Social, InterContinental Dubai Marina (+971 4 446 6664, marriott.com)

Dubai's brunches – although a holiday must-experience – can be raucous affairs where free-flowing drink, and not food, is the ultimate draw. For a highly sophisticated brunch experience where the food and drinks hit the same impeccably high standards, make haste for Marina Social for a Friday afternoon you'll remember long after your flight has left for home.

Keeping with the more contemporary offerings, Raffles Dubai (+971 4324 8888, raffles.com), the striking pyramid-shaped hotel in Oud Metha, hosts a fun Fashion Afternoon Tea with over 20 blends from Newby Teas and dainty sweets and savouries inspired by seasonal runway trends (don’t miss the fabulous peach praline stiletto). From now until September 30, afternoon tea guests can also enter a draw to win one of six pairs of Manolo Blahnik shoes. Normally served in Raffles Salon in the light-filled marble lobby, during Ramadan you can take tea in Crossroads, overlooking the lush Raffles Garden, on the third floor. Dhs125 per person, daily 2pm-7pm.

Meanwhile, be transported to an English summer garden at Rhodes W1 (+971 4 317 6000, rw1-dubai.com) at Grosvenor House Hotel. With sunny lemon tones and walls covered with fake grass and white butterflies, this classy but casual dining spot from Dubai-based British chef, Gary Rhodes, serves afternoon tea every Wednesday to Saturday from 2.30pm to 5pm. From finger sandwiches in savoury flavours such as quail's egg mayonnaise and onion and herb Croque Monsieur to warm crumpets with fresh raspberries and homemade scones, the fine china cake stands come piled high with tasty treats to compliment your pot of tea. Dhs195 per person.

CLoCKwise FRoM top LeFt: La Cantine du Faubourg; Bazxar; Burger & Lobster

this very British custom with real flare. If you want to feel on top of the world while enjoying the city’s most unique afternoon tea – and we heartily recommend that you do – head to the Tea Party on 68th, which takes place within Prime 68 at JW Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com). This is the world’s tallest hotel, and from its 68th floor you get to drink in panoramic views of Dubai while enjoying the finest cuts of beef, American cheesecake (the world’s best) and some sublime drink creations. It takes place on Saturdays, from 2.30pm-5pm, priced at an incredibly good value Dhs185 per person or Dhs350 per couple.


bRiLLiantbaR FooD

If you’re looking for somewhere to watch the Euro 2016 tournament – group matches kick off at 6pm, 9pm or midnight local time – or just after a casual meal, Dubai’s bars and pubs offer a plethora of delicious light bites. For a laidback affair, head to Bidi Bondi (+971 4 427 0515, emiratesleisureretail.com) on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah. With national flags hanging from the walls and plenty of television screens, the massive menu features kangaroo sliders, Queensland lamb cutlets and New Zealand grass-fed rump steak alongside plenty of familiar bar staples.

Down at JBR, JB’s Gastropub (+971 4 428 3084, rotana.com) at Amwaj Rotana is about as far from the traditional image of greasy onion rings and soggy nachos as you can get. The selection of cheese and cured meats on display will seriously tempt you, or there are more substantial menu options such as smoked beef brisket sandwich, steamed Mediterranean mussels, and build-your-own mac and cheese.

Hugely popular with residents of The Lakes community near Emirates Golf Club, Reform Social & Grill (+971 4 4542638, reformsocialgrill.ae) offers a classic ‘Best of British’ menu, along with summer salads and sharing plates.

The menu at The Black Lion (+971 4 359 2366, theblacklion.ae) at The H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, meanwhile, takes you from late breakfast through to the wee small hours. Munch on Korean short rib buns and salt beef sandwiches, or pitch up here for the all-day roast served from midday until 11.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Moving Downtown, The Eloquent Elephant (+971 4 438 3131, tajhotels.com) at Taj Dubai is a contemporary-styled gastropub complete with filament light bulbs, industrial stools, and leather barstools. On the menu you’ll find posh grub including truffle chips, fresh burrata with heirloom tomatoes, and lamb pate with Indian spices.

Take a break from shopping and visit Brunswick Sports Club (+971 56 404 0685, brunswicksc.com) at Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates for ribs, crisp squid, fried chicken and some of the best burgers in town.

At the opposite end of Mall of the Emirates, Après (+971 4 341 2575, emiratesleisureretail.com) is the UAE’s only après-ski gastropub. With an international menu, there’s plenty to choose from, but the stone-fired pizzas are easily some of the best in the city. Couples should plump for the traditional Swiss cheese fondue and tuck in as you watch Ski Dubai’s snowboarders swoosh down the slopes in front of you.

suCCuLent steaK

Most high-end hotels in Dubai are endowed with a high-end steakhouse offering premium beef staples like wagyu that are far from cheap. But, budget aside, there are some brilliant steaks to be had in this city.

Heading up our list of top tables is Prime68 (+971 4 414 3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at JW Marriott Marquis, which is a cut above (pun intended). The premium beef here is sourced from choice suppliers across the globe and tastes sublime, matched by the views from the 68th floor. Accompaniments such as black truffle butter add a little extra oomph, while add-ons like lobster tails and crab cake are an indulgent treat.

Overlooking the famous horseracing track, Prime Steakhouse (+971 4 381 3111, meydanhotels.com) at The Meydan Hotel is a destination restaurant that never fails to impress. With plush décor, low lighting and a pianist tinkling on the ivories, this romantic spot serves only the finest cuts of premium beef sourced from around the world including Tajima Wagyu and grain-fed Black Angus. With throne-like chairs and informed service, you’ll feel like royalty when dining here.

Opened in 1996, JW’s Steakhouse (+971 4 607 7977, marriottdiningatjw.ae) is a Dubai institution, and rightly so. Chef Mohammad Iqbal has been in the


this paGe:JW Steakhouse

kitchen from day one and knows each of his (many) regulars’ preferences by heart – it’s so popular that every table is adorned with brass plaques with the names of diners who always sit at the same spot. With wood panelling, overstuffed armchairs, a long mahogany bar and Frank Sinatra tunes playing in the background, the décor of this classy steakhouse sets the tone. The menu features the finest cuts cooked to perfection, while seafood lovers can choose Maine lobsters and Dungeness crabs straight from the tank. For steaks that cut like butter and excellent service, JW’s is pretty hard to beat.

Argentina is the undisputed heavyweight champion of steak, so it's no surprise that Gaucho (+971 4 422 7898, gauchorestaurants.com) holds its own – and then some – against Dubai's other purveyors of marbled meat. Here, fully knowledgeable waiters bring all the available cuts to your table on a wooden board, so that you know exactly what to order. Twist our arm and we'll tell you to plump for the Churrasco De Lomo, a spiral cut of fillet that has been marinated for 48hrs in garlic, parsley and olive oil. And ask for the fat truffle fries as a side. Job done.

For somewhere lighter on your wallet, go to the ever popular Western Steakhouse (+ 971 4 331 1111, ihg.com/crowneplaza) at Crowne Plaza Dubai. A fine slab of US-certified fillet and two side dishes costs a mere Dhs145, although to order it you'll have to first pass up the opportunity of opting for the prime rib – slow roasted for 12 hours, it all but faints at the sight of your fork. You could always come back for it the next night?


DininG at DiFC

You may want to check in with your bank manager back home before heading to DIFC for dinner (especially with the whole family), but your reward for blowing your budget will be a truly memorable meal. Within DIFC is Gate Village, where amidst the high-end galleries and auction houses are some of Dubai’s – and the world’s – best restaurants. Listed at number 89 in Restaurant Magazine’s 2016 list of the World’s Best Restaurants is the ever-popular Zuma (+971 4 425 5560, zumarestaurant.com), where the outstanding Japanese food is best ordered to share. In fact, what always works well here is to ask your waiter to order for you. New-to-the-menu dishes that you'll want to try, courtesy of new Executive Chef Pawel Kazanowski and a hint of influence from CEO and Founder, Rainer Becker, include a sublime thinly-sliced chutoro tuna, chilli, coriander, and sesame.

Taking the number 99 slot on the same prestigious list is La Petite Maison (+971 4 439 0505, lpmlondon.co.uk/dubai). It uses produce from local UAE farms in a number of its sublime dishes, all of which have their roots in French Mediterranean cooking – dishes like the burrata with basil and tomatoes and the salt-baked seabass are legendary amongst Dubai gourmands.

A mere stone's throw from DIFC – though admittedly by a very strong arm – is the always-in-vogue La Cantine Du Faubourg (+ 971 43 527 105, lacantine.ae), as fashionable a restaurant as you'll find this side of the, erm, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. As is increasingly popular these days, sharing plates is the concept here, so take your pick from a catwalk-length menu of mid-sized dishes, the standouts from which are the crab-avocado salad and (the exceptional) slow-cooked wagyu short ribs. As expected, you should turn up fashionably late to experience the atmosphere at its buzzing best, something heightened by its brilliant inside-to-outside setting.

The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri in Burj Daman building is a recent

CLoCKwise FRoM beLow: Laluz; Bateaux Dubai; Catch; Gaucho


Italian import that’s already got Dubai’s gastronomes buzzing. Originating in Florence, the thrice-starred Enoteca Pinchiorri was founded by sommelier Giorgio Pinchiorri and Annie Féolde, the self-taught (French) executive chef. The Dubai outpost is a more relaxed version of Italian fine dining, with an emphasis on amazing ingredients all imported from Italy (the restaurant even has its own brand of Parmesan and olive oil). Overseen by head chef Luca Tresoldi, who has worked in Florence under Féolde for the last five years, signature dishes like octopus slow-cooked in homemade olive oil and tuffoli pasta with veal shank stew are sublime examples of just how beautiful and delicate Italian food can be when done to this incredibly high standard.

subLiMe sushi anD sashiMi

Beyond the elsewhere-mentioned Zuma and Nobu, Dubai is also home to a couple more standout Japanese restaurants. One of them, Armani/Hashi (+ 971 4 888 3888, armanihotels.com) is housed at the foot of Burj Khalifa in Armani Hotel Dubai. You'd be hard pushed to find anywhere serving up seafood as good as that served here.

TOMO in Raffles Dubai (+971 4 357 7888, tomo.ae) is helmed by chef-owner Chitoshi Takaashi, who has devised a menu that’s vast and packed with fantastic authentic Japanese delicacies, best navigated with the help of a waiter. The terrace here bestows brilliant views of Burj Khalifa.

Ex-Zuma chef Reif Othman’s Play (+971 4 225 6000, h-hotel.com) at The H Hotel was an instant hit when opened at the outset of 2016. Playfully (naturally) described as Mediterrasian – a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavours – the twists on classic dishes here are a real delight. Be sure to order the duck gyoza and Takumi Wagyu ribs - both of which are divine. The always-buzzing bar and DJ means the atmosphere at dinner is as playful as the menu, although if you’re a non-smoker the restaurant area can get uncomfortably smoky.

50 DXB City ExpertWhere To Eatthis page: STAY by Yannick Alléno


dinedowntown

In addition to The Beach, Downtown Dubai is one of the few areas in the city where you can walk along the street or, in this case, wide boulevards lined by trees and lit by tiny, twinkling lights at night. You’ll pass an array of good-value independent restaurants as you saunter past the skyscrapers, serving up everything from gourmet burgers and American classics at Ashton Kutcher-owned Ketchup (+971 4 363 8595, ketchup.ae) to the menu mash-up at Loui’s (+971 4 457 2411, louisrestaurant.net) where Lebanese, Mediterranean and Japanese dishes all vie for your attention.

The al fresco terrace is also a major draw at Fümé Neighborhood Eatery (+971 4 456 8784, fume-eatery.com) at Manzil Downtown Dubai, but the home-style cooking is the real crowd charmer here.

New to this neighbourhood is Ting Irie (+971 4 557 5601 tingirie.com) at Downtown Boulevard offers up Jamaican staples courtesy of Executive Chef Craig Wong (of Jamaican-Chinese heritage) who has a CV boasting stints at multi-Michelin starred restaurants Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and Heston Blumental’s Fat Duck.

If you’re coming to Downtown Dubai on the hunt for a meal you’ll remember long after your flight home has left the runway, it has to be La Serre (+971 4 428 6969, laserre.ae). Great service, even better food, and an atmosphere rarely bettered anywhere else in the city, this is another place where you should let the waiter order for you – just hope they mention the tagliatelle with black prawns and smoked duck.It's divine. Le Serre's downstairs boulangerie is also a great – and very popular – place to head for an al fresco breakfast.

dine at the Beach

The Beach at JBR – a brilliant pedestrianised area mere metres from the sand and sea – is the perfect place to head for a good-value feed with your family in tow. Your best bet is to simply stroll the length of it, stopping to peruse the menus at places that catch your eye – there are myriad cuisines to choose from. But were you to twist our arm we’d heartily recommend the following. Pots, Pans & Boards (+971 4 456 1959, thebeach.ae) is one of Dubai’s more interesting recent openings. Helmed by Tom Aikens, who remains the youngest UK chef to have scooped two Michelin stars, the concept here is sharing dishes (make sure you get the lion’s share of the lobster mac and cheese), which you’ll enjoy in a relaxed, informal (even the chairs are mismatched) vibe. Almaz by Momo (+971 4 551 6247, momoresto.com) is one place that will definitely catch your eye. Here you can look out to the sparkling sea while enjoying your pick from a menu of North African and Levant-inspired dishes. Think piping hot tagines, slow-cooked meats and grilled fish.

Breathing in the sea air may well put you in the mood for the ocean’s finest catches. If so, crack open a crab at Aprons & Hammers (+971 4 456 7888, apronsandhammers.com). Crab and shrimp are served by the bucketful – along with a dollop of family fun – with diners having to work for their meal by crushing crustaceans with hinged crackers and (you guessed it) hammers.

Also down by the beach is the Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort, in which you'll find the brilliant BiCE Ristorante (+971 4 399 1111,3.hilton.com). For many a year this has ranked high amongst the best Italian restaurants in Dubai, with sublime examples of regional specialities cooked to exacting standards. It's open for lunch and dinner and won't disappoint.

Within the very funky Vida Downtown Dubai hotel is the equally cool Toko Dubai (+971 4 442 8383, toko-dubai.com). Like Nobu, Toko Dubai also boasts a brilliant garden, where under the stars you can have your fill of some unique and sublime sushi creations – scampi nigiri, with foie gras and truffle oil being one. If you dine here as a part of a group of four, don't overlook the opportunity to order the tasting menu for the whole table, and allow the chef to bring you wave after wave of his finest creations.

Famed London export, Novikov (+971 4 38 888 744, novikov-dubai.com), at the Sheraton Grand Hotel is another ultra-glamorous spot with a sleek, dimly-lit dining space, resident DJs and a vast – and very impressive – Asian menu. Fronting the open kitchen is a market counter displaying fresh fish and seafood flown in every second day from Portugal and Japan, including interesting delicacies like goose barnacles and sea urchins. The skill of ex-Nobu head chef Shane Macneill is evident throughout – highlights include the King Crab leg wasabi gratin, scallop and black truffle sashimi, and the signature duck salad.

Founded in Moscow, famed in London and now delighting diners in Dubai is Sumosan (+971 56 678 3357, sumosan.com), which serves up Japanese food of the highest calibre to the showy crowd at Billionaire Mansion. You'll find it within the Taj Dubai hotel.

Cheaper than the lot – though still of high quality – is Manga Sushi (+971 4 342 8300, mangasushi.ae) at Beach Park Plaza in Jumeirah 2. As its name more than hints at, this is a restaurant that’s designed manga-style, right down to the waitresses’ uniforms. The fun extends to the very inventive sushi creations, including Godzilla in Dubai: deep-fried wasabi prawn, asparagus and diced mango, dipped in wasabi mayonnaise and rolled in sesame seeds. You'll also find a branch of Manga Sushi in The Dubai Mall.

52 DXB City ExpertWhere To Shop

Step inside the stores, meander around the markets and seek out the unique shopping experiences that are found only in Dubai

SHOPChapter F OUR

To

Mega Malls

Few places in the world ‘do’ malls like Dubai. Ever since the first shopping centre swung open its doors in 1980 (the Al Ghurair Centre) there has been a steady flow of malls opening up across the city. Whether you’re in town for one day, one week, or longer, there’s a mall for you.

During Ramadan (until Jul 5 or 6), opening hours at malls across the city are extended to around 2am. Most cafés, restaurants and fast food outlets within the malls will be closed during the day (although some of the bigger

malls may have a food court available for non-fasters) and open after sunset, serving until as late as 3am to accommodate those who are fasting.

With over 1,200 stores under its gargantuan roof, The Dubai Mall (800 38224 6255, thedubaimall.com) should be your first stop. Consisting of four levels – plus an aquarium, Olympic-size ice rink and a 22-screen cineplex – it was named the largest shopping centre in the world by the Guinness World Records when it opened in 2008, and is positively packed with both designer and high street stores. At some point during your shopping spree

here it’s a given that you’ll lose your bearings, but there are numerous help desks (and even buggies to ferry you around if you’re flagging). Don’t leave without visiting Level Shoe District (+971 4 501 6939, levelshoedistrict.com), which houses every designer shoe brand known to mankind; the region’s first Bloomingdale’s (+971 4 350 5333), and an outpost of France’s famous Galeries Lafayette (+971 4 339 9933, galerieslafayette-dubai.com).

Mall of the Emirates (+971 4 409 9000, malloftheemirates.com) is another big shopping draw. Following its recent 36,000 square-metre


abOUt this ChapteR Dubai’s main malls have long opening hours; The Dubai Mall opens daily from 10am-2am,

while Mall of the Emirates opens from 10am-10pm Sunday-Wednesday and 10am-midnight Thursday-Saturday (extended to 1am during Ramadan and 2am during Eid). The malls also

ask that shoppers dress modestly – shoulders and knees should be covered. These dress codes are in place to show respect for the country’s culture and religion, rather than a law.


extension (which saw 20 new fashion brands, 12 restaurants and a 24-screen VOX Cinemas added) this mega mall has over 560 stores to roam. Make sure you become acquainted with Fashion Dome, an area dedicated to designer garb; Boutique 1 (+971 4 395 1200, boutique1.com), a homegrown retail star stocking global and local labels; the UAE's largest Alexander McQueen (+971 4 347 0239) store, stocking seasonal collections as well as classics like skull scarves and knuckle box clutches; and Harvey Nichols – Dubai (+971 4 409 8888, harveynichols.com), which houses a winning mix of international fashion heavyweights and much more over its three floors.

Next, hop in a taxi – or take the metro to BurJuman Metro Station 1 – to BurJuman (+971 4 352 0222, burjuman.com) one of the oldest shopping malls in Dubai. Offering wall-to-wall high fashion, from Fendi and Versace to the UAE’s only Saks Fifth Avenue (+971 450 12700, saksme.com), here you can shop for designer names in relative calm.

Back on the metro, continue for three stops along the Red Line and you’ll reach Deira City Centre Mall (+971 4 295 1010, citycentredeira.com) home to over 370 retail stores. Aside from the shops, the mall houses Magic Planet, a super-sized indoor family entertainment centre.

A hop and skip from here is Festival Centre (+971 4 800 332, festivalcentre.com), an urban retail resort nestled in Dubai Festival City. Set on the historic Dubai Creek, it offers a potpourri of shops (mostly mid-range) and some great waterfront cafés that are perfect for a pit stop after sunset.

Shoppers who need a fuss-free retail spree should head to Dubai Marina Mall (+971 4 436 1020, dubaimarinamall.com), which offers a stylish mix of high-street brands on a more manageable scale, or Ibn Battuta Mall (+971 4 362 1900, ibnbattutamall.com). Touted as the world’s largest themed shopping mall and based on the travels of Arabic explorer Ibn

Battuta, the décor alone makes for great snaps.

It’s bargains galore at Dubai Outlet Mall (+971 4 423 4666, dubaioutletmall.com), located 30 minutes outside the city. Offering previous seasons’ wares of top brands at heavily discounted prices, must-visit shops here include Burberry, Coach, Priceless and The Outlet, which stock clothes and accessories from the city’s biggest luxury department stores.

sOUveniRs tO savOUR

It’s time to say farewell to tacky token gifts and hello to something a little more authentic – starting with Arabica coffee. While a number of coffee shops in Dubai serve Arabica coffee (with a signature date), few sell the beans to take away – apart from the Dubai Coffee Museum (+971 4 353 8777, coffeemuseum.ae), that is. The museum, which is located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, is split across two levels with a coffee bar on the top floor. It is here that the museum’s bubbly barista John Paul – an expert when it comes to drinks of the caffeinated kind – serves and sells Arabica coffee for visitors looking for a souvenir with a touch of authenticity. It’s open 9am until 5pm every day, except Friday.

Like coffee, poetry forms a cornerstone of Dubai’s history. Head to the vast Kinokuniya (+971 4 434 0111, uae.kinokuniya.com) bookshop in The Dubai Mall to pick up an Arabic poetry book from one of the many shelves stacked high with tomes.

Calligraphy, too, is synonymous with Emirati heritage. Gallery 1 (+971 4 432 7493, g-1.com), which has shops in Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat Jumeirah, among other locales, stocks an enviable selection of calligraphy keepsakes – from cards and prints to notebooks.

Oud, a scent synonymous with Dubai, will undoubtedly make for a memorable holiday memento, with most of the malls and markets mentioned in this section offering bottled or bespoke versions for men


and women. But for noses that prefer softer scents, head to Villa 515 (+9714 39 54 054, villa515.com), an olfactory sanctuary for bespoke fragrance. Located in Jumeirah 3, this perfumer boasts a shop and a laboratory that’s specifically designed for perfume customisation – perfect for creating your own holiday scent.

best OF bespOke

Dubai has garnered a well-deserved reputation for custom tailoring over the years thanks, in part, to an abundance of fabric stores and quick turnaround times – great for visitors like yourself.

Areas synonymous with tailoring include Satwa – Deepa’s (+971 4 349 4434, deepastailoring.com) is a popular spot; Karama – Dream Girls (+971 4 337 7287) is a regular for Dubai’s females; and Bur Dubai – Parmar Tailors (+971 4 3513112, parmartailors.com) is a firm favourite for made-to-measure. These three locations make for a great day out in old Dubai, regardless of whether or not you’re looking for bespoke attire.

Men, meanwhile, should stop by Royal Fashion (+971 4 368 6192, royalfashion.biz) at Souk Madinat Jumeirah (it also has branches in various hotels in Dubai). The tailors here create made-to-measure suits and shirts at reasonable prices, and can send them on to your home country should they not be ready before you fly home.

Couples looking to say ‘I do’ should stop by the popular Gold & Diamond Park, along Sheikh Zayed Road. It's a hive of activity with lots of jewellery stores offering custom-made luxuries. (+971 4 362 7777, goldanddiamondpark.com). Here, Monili Jewellers (+971 4 340 7537, monilijewellers.com) is a standout boutique. It houses a range of diamonds and semi-precious to precious stones, which the boutique's artisans can put to good use by creating bespoke pieces for you. At this Dubai stalwart haggling is an absolute – and welcomed – essential.

ask a lOCalClaire Carruthers, Fashion stylist

Reem’s Closet (+971 4343 9553, reemscloset.com) in the Mazaya Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road is a treasure trove of vintage finds, stocking pre-loved designer handbags, abayas, clothing and accessories.

pReviOUs page: Bloomingdales, The Dubai Mallinset: Galeries Lafayette


COnCept stORes

Outside of Dubai’s glitzy malls there’s a raft of independent concept stores and shopping experiences to enjoy – if you know where to find them.

The best way to tick off the city’s unique stores is to introduce them into your day, rather than allocate a day to visit them. For example, if you find yourself in Alserkal Avenue admiring the art galleries, make sure you stop by The cARTel (+971 4 388 4341, thecartel.me), one of Dubai’s creative retail pioneers. From the outside it looks like an abandoned warehouse desperate for some architectural attention. Step inside, however, and a carefully curated selection of limited edition clothing awaits. The designers stocked at cARTel are often exclusive to the region, with every piece a limited edition to ensure its individuality.

Over the road from cARTel you’ll find A4 Space (+971 50 556 9797, alserkalavenue.ae), a sprawling 6,000sqft warehouse that regularly hosts pop-up fashion and art events for the city’s cool crowd.

Fashion-conscious parents heading to Dubai Zoo should visit the nearby Zoo Concept (+971 4 349 5585), a concept boutique offering everything from novelty gifts to trendy T-shirts. From here, venture a little further along Jumeirah Beach Road to Comptoir 102 (+971 4 385 4555), a conceptualised eatery selling kitsch clothing items alongside a delicious vegan food menu.

In Umm Suqeim is IF Boutique (+971 4 394 7260, ifboutiquedubai.com), a villa which houses cutting edge designs from a whole host of quirky international designers, including Yohji Yamamoto.

A short drive down the same street you’ll find Garderobe (+971 4 394 2753, garderobe.ae), a hotbed for pre-owned luxury fashion. There is vintage Chanel alongside Celine, Balenciaga beside Burberry, and Dior in company with Dolce & Gabbana.

Holidaymakers planning on retracing Tom Cruise’s footsteps at Dubai International Financial Centre (Cruise

ran under the iconic Gate Building in the fourth installment of Mission: Impossible) should pay Momentum (+971 4 327 4320, momentum-dubai.com) a visit. This vintage and rare watch store offers a raft of timepieces as well as service and repair.

MiniMalls

They might not be as big as Dubai’s jumbo malls but the city’s smaller counterparts are chock-full of labels worthy of your holiday dirhams. Most of the mini-malls are located along Jumeirah Beach Road and Al Wasl Road – two roads that run parallel. Simply drive up one, turn around at Drydocks Dubai, and drive down the other. Kick-off your mini-mall trawl at one of Dubai’s newest shopping

centres, aptly named The Mall (+971 4 348 4848, themall.co.ae), opposite Jumeirah Beach Hotel. Flooded with natural light, the mall houses 55 stores and food outlets including Boho Beachwear, Big Brands Factory Outlet and French fashion retailer, Escales.

Then continue along Jumeriah Beach Road to Sunset Mall (+971 4 330 7333, sunsetmall.ae), home to West L.A boutique and its batch of underground fashion brands from across the globe.

Two other must-visit shopping havens here include the Mediterranean-inspired Mercato Mall (+971 4 344 4161, mercatoshoppingmall.com) – here you’ll find a brilliant boutique called Bagatelle (+971 55 312 6822) which sells pre-owned designer clothing,


shoes and jewellery – and The Galleria Mall (+971 4 344 4434), another new name in the independent mall arena and home to quirky stores such as SoH (+971 4 344 4147, soh.ae) a beauty-salon-meets-art-gallery-meets-boutique, and ValleyDez (+971 4 321 2898, valleydez.com), which stocks a great range of cool designer and ready-to-wear clothing.

And while most of the city's al- fresco shopping precincts wind down over summer, City Walk (citywalk.ae) at the junction of Al Wasl and Al Safa Road aims to bring the outside in with a new boulevard-style shopping area with a glass roof, subtle air-conditioning and plenty of natural light. Window shop without breaking a sweat at boutiques like American Vintage, Rag & Bone and Karl Lagerfeld, then

catch a film at Reel Cinemas or take the kids to Mattel Play Town, a newly opened indoor ‘eduplay’ centre.

If you want to fully explore the Jumeirah/Al Wasl area but haven’t rented a car, a good option is to hire a taxi for a six-hour stint for a flat fee of Dhs500. You must book 24hrs in advance (+971 4 208 0000, dubaitaxi.ae).

indoormarkets

Ripe Market (+971 4 380 7602, ripeme.com) is one of the city’s most popular al-fresco markets during the winter shopping season, and for the summer months it takes refuge inside Times Square Centre on Sheikh Zayed Road. Focused solely on local artisans and designers selling arts,

crafts, fashion and jewellery, there is also locally grown organic fruit and vegetables for sale, street food stalls, live music, pop-up fitness classes, activities for the kids and a wonderful community atmosphere. It takes place every Saturday from 9am-3pm.

Now in its fifth year, the Ramadan Night Market (ramadannightmarket.com) is bigger and better than ever. It's on until July 2 – so you'd better be quick – at Zaabeel Hall 4 and 5 at Dubai World Trade Centre and features a huge array of clothing, jewellery, perfumes, homewares, electronics, toys, handicrafts and souvenirs. There are also food stalls dishing up regional and international treats, and a kids' play area with face painting, bouncy castles, climbing walls, trampolines and more. Open from 8pm to 2am.

clockwise from inset: The cARTel; West LA

Boutique; City Walk; Comptoir 102; Jimmy

Choo, Mall of the Emirates


sOUk speCtaCUlaR

It’s no surprise that one of Dubai’s oldest settlement areas provides the base and backdrop for one the city’s most authentic shopping experiences: Deira. Nestled in the neighbourhood’s maze of winding walkways you’ll find the Dubai Gold Souk – best reached by taxi, although the nearest metro stop is Al Ras. The residents love it because it reminds them of days gone by, while tourists like it for the quality and variety of gold – and the fact that you can haggle over the price.

A quick march from the Gold Souk will lead you to the Spice Souk, home to a number of thatched market stalls selling spices that are certain to pull at your purse strings.

inset: Mercato Mall

gO lOCal

Dubai is home to a number of stellar designers whose collections have careered down the runway at fashion weeks around the world. Star of the moment Madiyah Al Sharqi, who is also the daughter of the ruler of Fujairah, is celebrated at home and abroad for her statement pieces, feminine separates and dresses. Pick up a Sharqi staple from Symphony (+971 4 310 6904, bysymphony.com) in The Dubai Mall. Also stocked in Symphony is Endemage, an ethnic chic label created by Omani sisters Nadia and Lubna Zakwani.

Still in The Dubai Mall, for the summer months only you'll get to shop at pop-up boutique Design 971 (call 800 382 24 6255 for further information). It lays claim to the region's most exciting young designers, including Lilian Afshar, whose L’Afshar label has garnered praise from Vogue.

House of Nomad is another local label elbowing its way inside the wardrobes of the UAE’s fash-pack. The celebrated newcomer, applauded for its use of Arabic calligraphy throughout its collections, can be found in West L.A. Boutique (+971 4 388 2828, westlaboutique.com) in Sunset Mall.

Besides the malls, the streets along Jumeirah Beach Road, Al Wasl Road and the surrounding roads are dotted with villas housing local design talent. You’ll find Dubai fashion star Rami Al Ali (+9714 394 5607, ramialali.com), whose couture collections have appeared at Paris Fashion Week, in villa 697 on Al Wasl Road. Book a consultation or simply scour the rails for haute couture inspiration.

Superstar designer Ezra (+971 4 395 5385, ezrafashiondesign.com), best known for his dreamy, extravagant gowns, creates his masterpieces from his atelier in Dubai’s Jumeirah 3 (villa 746, Al Wasl Road). With Britney Spears and Michelle Rodriguez for clients, Ezra is a must-visit boutique for ladies who are looking for five star quality couture.

Over the water, on the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek, you’ll find Bur Dubai Souk, a labyrinth of passageways teeming with stores selling clothes, camels (miniatures, of course), cushions and much more. The best way to get here from the Spice Souk is by hopping on board a sturdy abra boat at one of the many stations along Baniyas Road – for just Dhs2 per person, you’ll be standing on the other side of the creek in five minutes.

The Dubai Textile Souk, meanwhile, is a fabric fairyland for shoppers looking to create bespoke garments. From swathes of silk for sarees and wedding gowns, to bolts of embroidered cotton, you would be hard-pressed to find a souk more colourful than this.

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What

DOChapter FIVE

Think you’re here for the sun and shopping only? Think again. Dubai boasts ample attractions that you’ll want to experience before heading home.

The fun starts here...

SEE thE cIty From thE Sky

Skydiving is on every daredevil’s bucket list and there’s no better place to do it than here. Skydive Dubai (+971 4 377 8888, skydivedubai.ae) has one of the world’s most spectacular tandem jumps over the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Or if you'd rather not leap out of a plane, iFly Dubai (+971 4 231 6292, theplaymania.com) lets you defy gravity in its amazing indoor wind tunnel.

For more sedate sightseeing, Seawings (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) offers a range of scenic joy flights, including the Dubai Creek Silver tour, a 40-minute ‘dock to dock’ seaplane excursion above the historic Creek, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and more.

If VIP bling is more your thing, nothing beats hovering around town in a helicopter. Fly High Helicopter Services (advanced booking via City

Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506) offers 15- or 25-minute tours from its helipad at Atlantis, The Palm, as well as helicopter transfers so you can really arrive in style. Meanwhile, Heli Dubai (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) takes off from Dubai Festival City, with 12- or 22-minute aerial tours over Dubai’s stratosphere-nudging skyscrapers for an unforgettable experience.


About thIS chAptEr As you’ll read, there is much to do in Dubai, and as such we’ve ensured our recommendations include plenty of options for both big and little kids. By far the best way to get your bearings – and to see all of the city – is by starting out with a City Sightseeing Dubai, hop-on, hop-off bus tour (see ‘Top of the Tours’ for booking details). Then it’s all about ticking off that to-do list...


chIll out At A SpA

Feeling frazzled after all that fun? Dubai has some of the world’s most luxurious spas that are renowned for their ultra-indulgent treatments.

One of the very best is Amara Spa (+ 971 4 602 1234, dubai.park.hyatt.com) at the beautiful Park Hyatt Dubai, which stands aside the city's historic creek. This magical setting features a 25m-pool and eight luxury suites replete with private gardens and tropical rain showers, three of which are designed for couples. If it's just the two of you in town, why not embark on Amara's Couple's Journey? Spread over a leisurely 180 minutes, you'll be pampered to the point of sheer bliss via a body scrub, body wrap, massage and facial. It's priced at Dhs3,000 per happy couple.

Over at the world's tallest hotel, JW Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 0000, jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com), you'll find the sublime Saray Spa, where customised treatments for two are also offered. The Saray Spa Ultimate VIP Journey is 3 hours of serenity, into which you're eased with a bath of your choice (try the milk option). You'll then be treated to an aromatherapy massage, signature facial, administered on side-by-side treatment tables in the wonderful VIP Suite. This journey to remember costs Dhs2,380.

Somewhere else that's somewhat of a haven amidst the hustle and bustle of the big city is the Orchid Palace Wellness Spa (+971 4 381 8887, gloria-hotels.com) in Yassat Gloria Hotel & Apartments. This Thai spa boasts a mammoth 17 ‘his and hers’ treatment rooms (with four allocated for couples) as well as a hammam, and steam/sauna facilities: basically, all you need for a comprehensive, aromatically-infused relaxation session.

SEE AmAzIngSEAlIFE

Some of Dubai’s best family-friendly attractions can be found under the sea. Home to over 65,000 marine animals, The Lost Chambers Aquarium (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506) at Atlantis, The Palm is sure to mesmerise young and old. There are over 20 exhibits with creatures from all over the world. Visitors can also book a behind-the-scenes tour or swim, snorkel or dive with sharks.

Meanwhile, The Dubai Mall is home to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506), one of the largest suspended aquariums on the planet. Marvel at over 140 species of sea life, including more than 300 sharks and rays, or rent some scuba gear and sidle up alongside the inhabitants of this 10-million-litre tank. No diving experience is required. At the zoo part of this aquatic attraction you’ll get to see the likes of penguins, otters, giant spider crabs and King Croc, who weighs in at 750kg. The Animal Encounter Experiences, meanwhile, provide behind-the-scenes access to otters, rays or saltwater crocodiles. The meet-and greet experiences take place every hour, daily, from 11am to 10pm.

And if you’ve always dreamed of swimming with dolphins, you can do exactly that at Dolphin Bay (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com), the 4.5-hectare dolphin conservation centre at Atlantis, The Palm. Home to a family of friendly Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, you can take your pick from five different dolphin experiences.

prEVIouS pAgE: Wild WadithIS pAgE, clokwISE From rIght: Dolphin Bay; Mattel Play! Town; The Dubai Fountain; Ski Dubai

63 DXB City Expert

Ask A locAlHeather Munro Willock, Receptionist

My favourite thing to do is to take my family and visitors to one of the fantastic beaches on the coast. We pack lunch and all the beach necessities, then head to our favourite beach , just past Jumeirah Beach Hotel. There are covered picnic tables and t he water is always nice , even on the hottest days.

explorecity wAlk

City Walk is an open-air retail and leisure space in Jumeirah with European-style boulevards, London-esque streetscapes – complete with red phone boxes – and the city's first street art project called Dubai Walls (dubaiwalls.com). With plenty of family-friendly indoor attractions, it's ideal for summer sightseeing too.

Suitable for babies to older kids, Caboodle Pamper & Play (+971 4 344 4570, caboodle.ae) is a fabulous play centre full of interactive toys, climbing frames and soft play areas. There's a whole host of activities and classes, including music, dance, cooking and crafts, along with a café and salon for parents and their tots. Also good for little ones, Mattel Play! Town (+971 4 317 3999, playtowndubai.com) offers educational play and live shows based around five well-known characters, including Barney, Angelina Ballerina and Fireman Sam.


Get wet and wild

Water babies are spoilt for choice as Dubai has two world-class waterparks that have something for all ages. Located in front of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) is the more manageable of the two, with over 30 rides and attractions. From kid-friendly slides and the relaxing lazy river, to adrenaline-fuelled surfing experiences and the truly terrifying Jumeirah Sceirah, it’s impossible not to have fun at this fantastic park.

Over on Palm Jumeirah you’ll find Aquaventure (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506) at Atlantis, The Palm. It comprises 17 hectares of heart-stopping slides, rides, pools and interconnecting waterways, along with a huge kids’ play area, exhilarating zip line, pristine private beach, private cabanas and the not-so-small matter of Shark Lagoon, where you can hand-feed gentle rays. Celebrating your birthday while in Dubai? Register online at atlantisthepalm.com for a free Aquaventure day pass to use anytime during your birthday week.

On a smaller scale – and therefore perfect for the toddlers – is Splash ‘n’ Party (+971 4 388 3008, splashnparty.ae), which you’ll find in Al Safa 2, Jumeirah. Water slides, splash pads and huge buckets which soak all below are all guaranteed to spread a smile on kids’ faces, while parents will be similarly enthused by not being charged an entry fee. Admission for kids is Dhs80 on weekdays and Dhs100 at the weekend.

explore the art scene

With a keen focus on contemporary art, Dubai has a burgeoning art scene centred around the financial district of DIFC and the industrial area of Al Quoz. The former is home to a dozen spaces including Ayyam Gallery (+971 4 439 2395, ayyamgallery.com), which promotes emerging and established

this paGe: At The Top

65 DXB City Expert

ask a localSukaina Hussein,Advertising group manager

During summer, I love to cool off with family and friends at Wild Wadi (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com). It's open until 7pm every night, plus there's a special ladies' night just for women every Thursday from 8pm until midnight with all-female lifeguards and staff.

artists from the Middle East, and The Empty Quarter (+971 4 323 1210, theemptyquarter.com), the city’s only gallery space devoted exclusively to fine art photography.

The hippest art hub, Alserkal Avenue (+971 50 556 9797, alserkalavenue.ae), can be found in Al Quoz. There are around 15 galleries housed in converted warehouses, including Mojo (+971 4 347 7388, themojogallery.com) and Leila Heller Gallery (+971 56 831 3520, leilahellergallery.com). One exhibition worth checking out this month is “Observing the Ritual” at Gulf Photo Plus (+9714 380 8545, gulfphotoplus.com). The exhibition, which runs until August 27, sheds light on the most intimate moments of life for practising Muslims, from communal prayer held in a secret mosque to the breaking of the fast in a family home during Ramadan.

Down near the Creek in Bur Dubai, Majlis Gallery (+971 4 353 6233, themajlisgallery.com) is also well worth a visit. It’s Dubai’s oldest art gallery, established over 25 years ago in a wind-tower house in the Al Fahidi district.

Meanwhile, an interesting gallery that aims to bridge the gap between high-end pieces and mass-produced prints can be found in The Dubai Mall. LUMAS (+971 4 388 2540, lumas.com) has original photographic and contem-porary artworks starting at less than Dhs400, as well as limited edition pieces by big names such as Damien Hirst and Patrick Demarchelier.

Get on track

Petrol heads can do more than just drool at Dubai’s legion of supercars. Slip behind the wheel of a single seater F3 race car, McLaren, Audi TT or R8 supercar at Dubai Autodrome (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com). Track experiences combine classroom and behind-the-wheel training from a professional racing driver, before you’re let loose to do a few laps on your own – guaranteed to get your blood pumping fast. The complex is also home to Kartdrome which has indoor


and outdoor tracks that are suitable for big kids and little ones aged 7 and up. The 1.2km outdoor circuit features 17 corners, a tunnel and bridge, while the 500m indoor track allows up to ten karters to race at any one time. Plus, the karts are equipped with timers so you can test your mettle against your mates.

bEyond ShoppIng At thE dubAI mAll

The Dubai Mall has a host of activities to keep the whole tribe entertained. Gamers of all ages will love SEGA Republic (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506), a huge indoor theme park with 15 rides including a rollercoaster, and hundreds of high-tech games. Little visitors will love KidZania (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506), a sprawling mini city that allows children to dabble in 80 different careers, from pilot to police officer. And aviation enthusiasts aged 9 and over can fly the world’s largest passenger plane at the Emirates A380 Experience (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com), a state-of-the-art Airbus flight simulator.

SwIng Into ActIon

Dubai has become a major golf destination and boasts an impressive collection of high-calibre courses. And as the mercury rises, there are some great golf deals to be had at the various clubs around town.

Emirates Golf Club (+971 4 380 1234, dubaigolf.com) boasts two 18-hole par 72 Championship courses. The Majlis course has open horizons and stretches of scrubby sand along with more traditional bunkers, while the Faldo has a wadi (valley) running through it, which is sure to challenge first-timers. It's also Dubai's only fully floodlit 18-hole course, so you can tee off after dark. During the summer months, you can play the Majlis for Dhs500, or the Faldo from Dhs350

before 5pm and from Dhs375 after 5pm. Fees for 9 holes are also available.

Jumeirah Golf Estates (+971 4 818 2000, jumeirahgolfestates.com) has two Greg Norman-designed Championship courses matched by excellent club facilities. Inspired by the great parkland courses of Europe and North America, the Earth course is home to the DP World Tour Championship, the final leg of the European Tour’s Race to Dubai. Meanwhile the undulating topography of the Fire course, marked by its red sand bunkers, demands a strategic approach. You can play 18 holes on either Earth or Fire for Dhs355 throughout July and August.

FEEl on top oF thE world

Ascending the world’s tallest tower is high on most visitors’ must-do lists, and At The Top, Burj Khalifa (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) doesn’t disappoint. A high-speed elevator delivers you to the observation deck on Level 124 - 452-metres above the ground - where floor-to-ceiling glass offers 360-degree views. You can then walk up a spiral, glass-walled staircase to Level 125 where viewfinders provide a virtual tour of the city from the perspective of a falcon. Premium ticket holders, meanwhile, can also visit the Level 148 observation deck - 555 metres up. Open daily until 11pm, advance book-ing is recommended.

SEE A moVIE wIthA dIFFErEncE

A trip to the cinema takes on a whole new dimension in Dubai. VOX Cinemas (+971 600 599 905, voxcinemas.com) at Mall of the Emirates has 24 screens including a multi-sensory 4DX theatre that adds moving seats and effects like rain and lightning; the first laser IMAX in the Middle East; and a colourful kids’ cinema. You can even swap popcorn for a gourmet duck burger at Vox Theatre by Rhodes, which combines luxury seats and service with a menu devised by Michelin-starred chef Gary Rhodes.

A luxurious experience also awaits at Reel Cinemas (+971 4 449 1902, reelcinemas.ae) at The Dubai Mall. The 22-screen multiplex includes four lavish Platinum Movie Suites with just 36 seats. After sinking into your reclining leather chair and snuggling down with your pillow and blanket, press the call button and your personal butler will appear with food and drinks throughout the film. These swish suites can also be found at the 10-screen cinemas at City Walk in Jumeriah and The Beach at JBR.

Something unique for kids cinema-wise is The Dome Box (800 637 227, thedomeboxdubai.ae) at BoxPark on Al Wasl Road. It’s a dome-shaped theatre with a 360-degree screen which plays short edutainment films. Instead of seats there are beanbags – and leaning posts for adults. Each movie lasts roughly 30 minutes.

rIght: Bounce


come on,Jump to it

A trampolining trend is currently sweeping the city with three fantastic facilities to choose from. Bounce (+971 4 3211 400, bounce.ae) in Al Quoz is the first and original indoor trampoline park with more than 100 interconnected tramps, along with wall running, foam pits, dodgeball, a slam dunk area and a flight academy where experts can teach you how to jump, somersault and do stunts.

In the same neighbourhood, Flip Out (600 567 568, flipout.ae) is the latest venue to open. It boasts more than 200 interconnecting trampolines and 10 trampoline-based attractions, including the Double Decker Kids’ Arena with smaller trampoline mats and custom springs to make the tramps extra safe for kids and toddlers.

Meanwhile, Jump Boxx (+971 4 288 5744, jump-boxx.com) in Uptown Mirdiff has over 120 interconnecting trampolines and a dedicated Kids' Court for three to five-year-olds to jump at their own pace. There are also activities such as dodgeball and basketball, plus ladies’ only sessions with all-female staff and a live DJ every Wednesday evening from 4pm–10pm.

ride arollercoaster

Due to open its doors on August 15, IMG Worlds of Adventure (+971 4 403 8888, imgworlds.com) is to be the world’s largest indoor theme park. It will have four unique worlds – Cartoon Network, Marvel, Lost Valley-Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard – under one roof with more than 20 rides and attractions, a 5D cinema experience, and live stage shows featuring characters such as Ben 10 and The Powerpuff Girls. Adrenaline junkies should make a beeline for The Velociraptor rollercoaster, which will reach speeds of up to 100km in just 2.5 seconds, and Predator, the sharpest drop track in the region with plenty of loops and rolls followed by a heart-stopping ‘beyond-vertical’ plummet. Tickets cost Dhs300 for adults and Dhs250 for children.


hIt thE bEAch

In our considered opinion you would have to be brave, mad, or both to want to hit the beach this month, so scorching hot is the temperature. However, if you’re staying in a hotel without its own private beach, but a dose of sea and sand is high on your holiday wishlist, head down to one of Dubai’s beautiful public beaches. Backed by a low-rise collection of restaurants, cafés and boutiques, and featuring a winding walkway dotted with innovative food stalls, The Beach at JBR (800 637 227, thebeach.ae) is one of the most popular spots along the Arabian Gulf. There are well-kept changing facilities with showers, all manner of activities to enjoy (from beach football to early morning yoga),

and you can rent a sunbed with an umbrella and towel for Dhs110 per day.

Another firm favourite is the stretch of sand running the length of Umm Suqeim known as Kite Beach, thanks to its popularity with kite-surfers (you can sign up for lessons too). It boasts a promenade with a handful of cool cafés, changing facilities and showers, a jogging track, beach tennis, watersports and the XDubai Skatepark, but no sunbed or brolly rental.

Remember that as this month is Ramadan you shouldn't drink (water ot otherwise) while in public during day-light hours – that includes when you're hot and bothered on the beach.

All thE Fun oF thE FountAInS

At the foot of Burj Khalifa is a 30-acre

lake, in which stands the world’s largest dancing fountain. Dubai Foun-tain has multiple jets spread across the lake, which shoot water 500ft into the air – about the height of a 50-storey building – while ‘dancing’ to the music. Shows are daily at 1pm and 1.30pm (1.30pm and 2pm on Fridays) and every 30 minutes from 6pm-11pm. Bag a table on the terrace of a lake-side restaurant (see ‘Where to Eat’), watch for free from the Waterfront Promenade, just outside the entrance to The Dubai Mall, or see it in style aboard one of the abras (traditional Arabic boats) which sail as close to the action as possible. Tickets cost Dhs65 per person and can be purchased from a counter on the Waterfront Promenade or from At The Top, Burj Khalifa.

clockwISE From InSEt: Mattel Play! Town; XDubai Skatepark; Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo; SEGA Republic; Jumeirah Golf Estates


ExpErIEncE Snow And IcE

While a winter wonderland in a desert city sounds fantastical, it does exist in Dubai. Located in Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai (advanced booking via +971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316 7506) is the go-to place for skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing or just throwing snowballs. Clothing and equipment are available for hire, and there are lessons for budding skiers aged 3 years and up, while boarders must be at least 8 years old. And don’t miss the free penguin parades, which happen daily at 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm. Dubai’s other mega mall has its own penguins too, albeit plastic ones.

Dubai Ice Rink (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com), the Olympic-sized rink at The Dubai Mall, has public skating sessions that are suitable for beginner and immediate skaters, as well as snowfall sessions with a live DJ every Tuesday at 6pm and 8pm. Penguin Pal skating aids are available for little ones measuring a minimum of 100cm tall, while there are Snowmen for adults and children over 12 years who are unsteady on their skates. One-on-one and semi-private lessons can also be arranged.

tAkE to thE hIgh SEAS

Sailing and yachting are popular pastimes in the emirate and cruising past Atlantis, The Palm towards

the iconic Burj Al Arab at sunset is one of the most memorable ways to experience Dubai. Deep sea fishing is another big draw, with species such as king mackerel and barracuda tempting anglers.

First Yacht (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) specialises in tailor-made luxury yacht and catamaran charters and private fishing trips, as well as powerboat rides and romantic dinner cruises for two. Sea Hunters (advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) is another recommended operator that can organise deep sea fishing tours, luxury yacht and catamaran charters, and flashy speedboat cruises all around Palm Jumeirah. The perfect way to feel the breeze this summer.

70 DXB City ExpertWhere To Go

goChapter SIX

T OW H E R E

As the majority of Dubai’s al fresco clubs and rooftop venues take a break over the summer, you’ll

find there’s still plenty to keep you entertained when the sun goes down. Get your glad rags on –

we’re going out...

For lIve muSIc

Live music abounds at the aptly titled The Music Room (taxi: Majestic Tower Hotel, +9714 501 2534) in Bur Dubai. Promising local - and frequently international – bands, this spacious venue attracts a knowledgeable crowd. Musically open-minded, they’ve hosted local metal giants like Nervecell, Bon Jovi tribute acts and alternative DJs like drum bass kingpin Goldie and jazz-funk troubadour Quantic.

Staying on this side of town, Club7 (taxi: Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, +971 4 377 1210) is a popular haunt where the music is as colourful as the psychedelic-tinged décor. Popular with locals and tourists of all nationalities, it’s a great place for a spot of cheesy,

affordable fun. Another old-timer to check out on this side of town is Marines Club (taxi: SeaView Hotel, +971 4 355 8080) where the resident rock band ensures the mostly-Filipino crowd keeps rocking out until the weesmall hours.

Staying on the rock-vibe, known across the globe the Hard Rock Café (taxi: Festival City, +971 04 232 8900) is a great spot to enjoy live rock music, and Dubai’s outlet is no different. The original Hard Rock Dubai caused somewhat of a local stir when it was demolished a few years back, but the new venue in Dubai Festival City has a whole host of musical memorabilia – including a ballero jacket worn by the late Prince and Mick Fleetwood’s Tama drums – it’s as

close as you’ll get to an all-American rock bar. Embracing all things African, Nairobi-owned KIZA (taxi: Emirates Financial Towers, +9714 453 9038 ) is another DIFC musical spot and the city’s first authentic African lounge and restaurant. Boasting it’s very own Afro-jazz troupe, The KIZA band shake things up every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, guaranteed to inject a bit of soul into your evening.

If it’s a true musical mash up you’re seeking, head to Indie (taxi: DIFC Gate Village 5, +971 55 455 6106 ) and enjoy an eclectic fusion of funk, house and classic indie tunes.

Newcomer Muze (taxi: Souk Al Bahar, +971 522 972 097) in Downtown Dubai is a welcome addition to the live music scene, with a lineup


About thIS chApter The UAE weekend is Friday-Saturday. As such, Thursday-Friday nights are usually the busiest across town. The legal age to drink alcohol in Dubai – and enter a night-

club – is 21, and while nowhere employs a seriously strict dress code policy, you won’t get in if you're dressed for the beach – no shorts, open-toe sandals or the like in this town, please. We have included a taxi reference for you – ask the driver to head here –

as most will not know the location of the club or lounge if you say its name only.


that includes Latin, Arabic fusion and World music. Resident bands include all-Cuban act, Son de Verdad, while jazz and soul singer Rouba and her band take to the stage every Friday. The lounge also does mean Mexican fusion food and cocktails, plus there are three free drinks for ladies every Friday. Open Wednesday-Friday from 8pm until 2am, it’s best to phone ahead to reserve a table.

Wednesday nights mean jazz time at New York spin-off Serafina (taxi: Souk al Bahr, +9714 363 8447 overlooking the impressive Dubai Fountain. Tuck into authentic Italian cuisine while Lebanese brothers Rony and Elie Afif keep you entertained with their musical brilliance, even better if you happen to head here on one of the nights that local celebrity Hamdan Al Abri joins the duo.

An upbeat eatery boasting some great live music is Jazz@Pizza Express (taxi: Movenpick, JLT +9714 441 6342) which - you’ve guessed it - serves up pizza and jazz. With different themed nights including open mic nights and a music-centric Friday brunch, it’s good value for money and a great spot for a jam. For a taste of music Big Easy style, head to Nola’s (taxi: Armanda Tower, JLT +971 399 8155) and enjoy entertainment from a live saxophonist every Friday at this New Orleans inspired secret. For the hipsters, it’s got to be Tribeca (taxi: JA Ocean View Hotel, +971 4 814 5599) where the relaxed vibe comes accompanied by a side of chilled-out music and is complemented perfectly with a glass of organic grape.

For the beSt DJS

360° (taxi: Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +971 4 406 8999) is one of the longest-running clubs in the city, and boasts panoramic views across the city from its perch in the middle of the Arabian Gulf. During summer, the indoor lounge bar hosts resident DJs every Friday for your deep house kicks, while rotating promoters on Thursdays bring in soulful house, UK


bass and dance classics. A cavernous venue on the 41st floor of Media One Hotel, Level 41 (taxi: Media One Hotel, +971 4 427 1000) hosts pop-up club nights and live music. From techno to drum and bass and hip hop to house, the back-to-basics rave cave hosts the city’s cooler promoters – meaning a clued-up crowd who aren’t afraid to cut loose on the dance floor.

While Pacha Ibiza Dubai (taxi: Souk Madinat Jumeriah, + 971 4 567 0000), doesn’t have quite the same hedonistic appeal of its Ibiza sister venue, it is still well worth checking out. It boasts a stunning rooftop venue and an ultra glamourous main room which hosts big name DJs. Drinks are far from cheap, but service is good

Part beach club, part open-air club and (during the summer months at least) part house party, Zero Gravity (taxi: Sky Dive Dubai, +971 4 399 0009) is the city’s biggest draw. During July and August all the action takes place in the Beach House, an air-conditioned ‘bachelor pad’-style abode at the foot of the glass-fronted infinity pool with a photo booth, giant Connect 4, air hockey and dart board. It houses 150 revellers inside, and a further 150 in its Dubai Marina-facing garden. If you're intent on soaking up the fierce sun by day, Zero Gravity offers day passes for pool and beach access, priced at AED 150 per person which is returned as a voucher to spend on food and beverages.

Reopening after Ramadan on July 7, Nikki Beach (taxi: Pearl Jumeirah, +971 4 376 6162) is the city’s newest beach club and the 13th of its kind to open worldwide. Like its glamor-ous global counterparts in Miami and Marbella, the Dubai outpost has a host of resident DJs and attracts a beautiful crowd who come to party from early afternoon around blue-tiled pools sur-rounded by white daybeds and cabanas with billowing drapes.

Alongside its ultra-glam mahogany wood-finished walls and deep plum furniture, Vii Club (taxi: Conrad Hotel, +971 50 169 6777) transforms into a luscious greenhouse throughout sum-mer. Resident DJ Anton plays deep,

tech and soulful house every Thursday and Friday from 10.30pm until 3.00am, with shisha available in the adjacent lounge bar until the end of August.

From the shores of the south of France comes the VIP Room (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, +971 52 881 8888) bringing with it a reputation for hosting big urban acts and a celebrity clientele. Dubai's outpost does much the same, with hip hop and house sharing deck duties on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Another imported chain, Provocateur (taxi: The Four Seasons Dubai, + 971 55 211 8222) began life in New York as a bottle-service club that catered to high-end house music lovers. Fittingly, the Dubai branch welcomed 4/4 heavy-weights like Seth Troxler and White Island favourite Solomon during its first season. More recently, it has shifted its focus to home-grown talents.

Movida (taxi: Radisson Royal Hotel, +971 55 1744 449) is one the city’s regular hot spots. They frequently host cameos from established and up-and-coming rappers (including O.T. Genasis), and have a very commercial hip hop and mainstream house/EDM soundtrack on the weekend. If you like to see bottles of bubbly with sparklers in them paraded every 20 minutes, this is the club for you.

prevIouS pAGe:Provocateur

thIS pAGe: Vault


leFt to rIGht:Billionnaire Mansion; HOBO

beSt lADIeS' NIGhtS

Like Friday brunch, ‘ladies’ night’ is somewhat of a Dubai institution. Usually staged on Tuesday nights, but now increasingly popping up at least somewhere throughout the week, the nights are so-named because ladies get to drink for free, in some places to a limitless degree.

With gorgeous views of Burj Khalifa and lush olive trees that bring the outdoors inside, Tesoro (taxi: Taj Dubai, +971 4 438 3127) – Spanish for ‘treasure’ – is a top spot for sundowners. Every Tuesday from 7pm until 11pm ladies can enjoy free espresso martinis and 50% off food and beverages from the Latin American-inspired menu that also features dashes of Italian, Indian and Middle Eastern flavours.

The view is even better at Vault (taxi: JW Marriott Marquis, +971 50 738 1388), located on the 71st floor of the world’s tallest hotel. The two-level lounge bar has a futuristic feel, thanks to its sleek décor and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Dubai’s Blade Runner-esque skyline. Ladies can enjoy three complimentary drinks night, every Tuesday from 7pm, while the resident DJ mixes an eclectic selection of tunes from RnB and house music to 80s and 90s old school.

Another buzzy night can be had at China Grill (taxi: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, +971 4511 7333), a glamorous restaurant and lounge bar with a resident DJ that attracts a glammed up crowd every Tuesday. Ladies are treated to complimentary drinks all night and 50

per cent off the Asian-inspired, sharing plates menu, while mixed groups score 25 per cent off food. It’s not always easy to order due to the sheer numbers of people who pile into this popular ladies’ night, so get there 10 minutes before the 6:30pm start if you want to bag a table.

YNot Bar & Kitchen (taxi: InterContinental Dubai Marina, +971 4 446 6669) holds its ladies’ night every Tuesday, with three free drinks from 7pm until 10pm. It's got a funky, New York-vibe (think polished concrete floors and Banksy- esque murals), knowledgeable staff and great views.

Making food a feature of its new ladies’ night is Social by Heinz Beck (taxi: Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 818 2222), which grants girls two glasses of grape or sparkling and three courses of fine Italian food every Wednesday from 7pm for Dhs195 per person. While Beck’s La Pergola restaurant in Rome is a three Michelin- starred temple to gastronomy, things are more relaxed at his Dubai outpost with an outdoor terrace offering great views and more low-key service.

For SomethING DIFFereNt

We’re not sure why it hasn’t been done before, but Stereo Arcade (taxi: Double Tree by Hilton, +971 52 618 2424) combines music and a stereo arcade (with over 50,000 games) as well as a slushy machine, hot dog stand and more. The hi-tech club plays ’80s and ’90s hits every weekend.For something with a real twist, push the bookcase in the lobby of the Dusit Thani hotel. It will open to reveal a hidden door, on which you’ll knock to gain entry to the Nippon Bottle Company (taxi: Dusit Thani, +971 4 357 0779), a Japanese speakeasy. It offers an impressive list of Japanese drinks, which are now considered to be some of the best in the world.

Also speakeasy-like – and equally well guarded – is Hobo (taxi: Nassima Royal Hotel, +971 55 927 0815), which reopens after Ramadan on July 9. To find it you'll have to venture through


the 4th floor of the car park to the rear of the Nassima Royal Hotel, where you'll find a small sign flanked by dapper doormen. They'll lead you inside, where mixologists stir up a storm and DJs Fredrick Stone and Jean B spin vinyl records – no mixing by button here, thankfully. With an intimate, underground vibe, it’s open Mondays and Saturdays only, from 11pm.

SeNSAtIoNAl SupperclubS

An increasing number of venues across Dubai are now offering a live performance accompanied by a starter, main and dessert. Top billing goes to Ibiza’s legendary club Pacha (taxi: Souk Madinat Jumeirah, +9714 316 6666, pacha.ae), which now has a holiday home in Dubai. A winning menu of delectable dishes, our pick from which is the Chilean sea bass, heightens your enjoyment of its high-energy stage show. Reopening on June 12, the show takes place Tuesday – Saturday from 8pm.

Billionaire Mansion (taxi: The Taj Dubai, +971 4 510 3100) is Dubai’s newest swanky hangout. The concept is the brainchild of Italian entrepreneur and ex-Formula One boss Flavio Briatore and comprises the renowned Japanese restaurant Sumosan, an Italian grill, a nightclub, shisha terrace and private karaoke room. The club regularly hosts top international DJs, while the dinner shows take place Monday – Saturday from 9:30pm with a cast of dancers, singers and acrobats wowing the crowds until midnight.

Perched on the 42nd floor of the Shangri-La Hotel Dubai and styled like an opulent Victorian theatre with balcony booths and velvet curtains, The Act (taxi: Shangri-La Hotel Dubai, +971 4 355 1116) combines fantastical entertainment – think acrobats and singers and human oddities – with Peruvian delicacies and decadent dishes like grilled lobster slathered in black truffle butter at its Tuesday and Wednesday dinner shows.

With a ‘no effort, no entry’ door policy, you should dress to impress for the Midnight Brunch Dinner show at Cavalli Club (taxi: Fairmont Dubai, +971 50 991 0400). The sassy show features singers, dancers and DJs served with set menu of fine Italian food and selected beverages for Dhs250 per person, every Sunday from 8:30pm until midnight.

Beirut export MusicHall (taxi: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, advance bookings via +971 4 303 4992) on Palm Jumeirah serves up a whole host of eclectic live music acts – up to ten per night – performing everything from funk and folk to rock and jazz on Thursdays and Fridays, alongside Mediterranean dishes and sharing plates. Over at Clé (taxi: Al Fattan Currency House in DIFC, Australian-

Lebanese chef Greg Malouf serves outstanding modern Middle Eastern cuisine in sleek surrounds. Adding to the party mood, belly dancers, acrobats and a DJ take to the floor every Wednesday from around 10pm onwards to entertain diners.

In the same building, R Trader (taxi: Al Fattan Currency House in DIFC, +971 4 343 5518) is a restaurant and jazz bar with a 1920s speakeasy theme and modern British menu. Go figure. The house band, Rita & The Rogues, plays every Sunday to Thursday, accompanied by the resident DJ. The somewhat unique venue also hosts regular Rouge Sessions with a variety of jazz performances while you dine. The three-course dinner show with two hours of unlimited beverages costs Dhs499 per person.

76 DXB City Expert#holiday

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1. Photo credit: @mustafa_sheikhA welcome dose of vitamin sea – and the iconic Burj Al Arab.2. Photo credit: @photomosA quiet moment among the serene sur-rounds of Four Seasons Resort Dubai.3. Photo credit: @manzildowntownDelicious desserts at Manzil Downtown Dubai's Levant brunch.

4. Photo credit: @shacketteA stunning perspective of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.5. Photo credit: @a.fr.in.dubaiDon your scuba gear and join this guy at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.6. Photo credit: @sjanaeliseGet your adrenaline pumping at Atlan-tis, The Palm's Aquaventure waterpark.

7. Photo credit: @ksu_hinExplore the UAE's fascinating East Coast with Arabian Adventures.8. Photo credit: @danyeidphotographyTwinkling palm trees line Sheikh Mo-hammed Bin Rashid Boulevard.9. Photo credit: @chrisfeloulaTraditional abra boats cruising along the Creek are a classic Dubai sight.

#HOLIDAYFrom amazing architecture to sweeping sandscapes, you’ll have lots of memories of

your time in Dubai to share via social media. Here are some of our favourite Instagram snaps of the city. Be sure to share your #VisitDubai and #MyDubai moments too

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dxb city expert - july/august'16 - uk

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