Definitely Dubai Pocket Guide 2012

Official Pocket Guide 2012

DTCM OVERSEAS OFFICES ■ AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

■ JAPAN

■ CHINA BEIJING OFFICE Ms. Brenda He (Director) Ms. Ivy Gao (Office Manager) Tel: +86 10 5979 2062; Fax: +86 10 6430 1519 Email: dtcm_beijing@dubaitourism.ae dtcm_china@dubaitourism.ae

■ KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA JEDDAH Mr. Aly El Zayat (Director) Tel: +966 2 652 4283; Fax: +966 2 652 5185 Email: dtcm_ksa@dubaitourism.ae

Ms. Julie King Tel: +61 2 9956 6620; Fax: +61 2 9929 8493 Email: dtcm_aus@dubaitourism.ae

GUANGZHOU OFFICE Ms. Brenda He (Director) Ms. Janet Huang (Office Manager) Tel: +86 20 8760 7815; Fax: +86 20 8760 7895 Email: dtcm_guangzhou@dubaitourism.ae dtcm_china@dubaitourism.ae SHANGHAI OFFICE Ms. Brenda He (Director) Mr. Wei Gang (Office Manager) Tel: +86 21 5528 6900; Fax: +86 21 6385 9200 Email: dtcm_shanghai@dubaitourism.ae dtcm_china@dubaitourism.ae ■ FRANCE

Mr. Pascal Maigniez Tel: +33 1 4495 8500; Fax: +33 1 4563 1314 Email: dtcm-france@dubai.fr

■ GERMANY Mrs. Mara Kaselitz Tel: +49 69 710 0020; Fax: +49 69 710 00234 Email: dtcm_ge@dubaitourism.ae ■ HONG KONG

Ms. Elizabeth Warr Tel: +852 2827 5221; Fax: +852 2511 5472 Email: dtcm_hk@dubaitourism.ae ■ INDIA

Mr. Carl Vaz Tel: +91 22 2282 8836/ 2282 8837 Fax: +91 22 2282 8835 Email: dtcm_in@dubaitourism.ae ■ ITALY Ms. Elisabetta Noris Tel: +39 02 8738 8132; Fax: +39 02 9366 0918 Email: dtcm_it@dubaitourism.ae

Ms. Hiroko Yoneda Tel: +81 3 5367 5450; Fax: +81 3 3225 0071 Email: dtcm_ja@dubaitourism.ae

RIYADH Mr. Mohamed El Zahrani (Office Manager) Tel: +966 1 217 7613; Fax: +966 1 217 7614 Email: riyadh@dubaitourism.ae ■ NORDIC COUNTRIES Ms. Lena Skogstrom Ericson Tel: +46 8 411 1135; Fax: +46 8 411 1138 Email: dtcm_sca@dubaitourism.ae ■ NORTH AMERICA Ms. Alba M. Hotchkiss Tel: +1 212 719 5750/ 888 584 7070 Fax: +1 212 719 5763 Email: dtcm_usa@dubaitourism.ae ■ RUSSIA, CIS & BALTIC STATES Mr. Sergey G. Kanaev Tel: +7 495 980 0717 Fax: +7 495 980 0718 Email: dtcm_cis@dubaitourism.ae dtcm_rus@dubaitourism.ru ■ SOUTH AFRICA Ms. Wendie White Tel: +27 0 11 702 9600 Fax: +27 0 11 463 4830 Email: dtcm_sa@dubaitourism.ae ■ SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA Ms. Michelle Pétermann Tel: +41 31 924 7599 / 74 Fax: +41 31 921 9008 Email: dtcm_ch@dubaitourism.ae ■ UK & IRELAND Mr. Ian Scott Tel: +44 020 7321 6110 Fax: +44 020 7321 6111 Email: dtcm_uk@dubaitourism.ae

Dear Visitor, Welcome to Dubai On behalf of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai, it gives me great pleasure to extend you a warm welcome to Dubai. I am sure you will have a pleasant and enjoyable stay here.

Use this pocket guide to maximise your experience and make the most of your time in Dubai.

The Emirate offers a wide variety of attractions and facilities to leisure and business travellers. We trust that you will have a comfortable and satisfactory stay in Dubai and return home with lasting memories of a perfect vacation.

Your feedback and suggestions are very important for us so we can make Dubai even more visitor-friendly. Visit our website, www.dubaitourism.ae, to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in Dubai and to give your comments.

Khalid A. Bin Sulayem Director General

BateauxDubai

contents gEnEral inforMation This is Dubai Travel facts Entering Dubai ● Culture and heritage ● Islam ● Medical care ● Dos and don’ts ● Flora and fauna ● ● ●

Published on behalf of

Exploring dubai Dubai landmarks Museums and heritage sites ● Al Bastakiya ● Art Galleries ● Soak in the sun ● Fun for the whole family ● ●

By

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activitiEs ● ●

What to do in Dubai Calendar of events

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rEtail ExpEriEncE Shopping malls Souks ● Shopping neighbourhoods ● Dubai Duty Free ● Shopping festivals ● Gifts and souvenirs ● ●

PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE motivate@motivate.ae Tel: +9714 2824060 Fax: +9714 2820428 5th Floor, Office 508, Building No 8, Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +9714 3903550 Fax: +9714 3904845

disclaiMEr While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions

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going out Find your way around Touring Dubai ● Inbound tour operators in Dubai ● Eating out ● Restaurants ● 48 hours in Dubai ● ●

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accoModation ●

Hotels

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glossarY ●

Language

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indEx & Map ● ●

Index Map Legend

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General InformatIon  this is dubai  travel facts  entering dubai  culture & heritage  islam  healthcare services  do’s & don’ts  flora & fauna

10 | General This is Dubai Information

GeneralThis Information is Dubai | 11

THIS IS DUBAI

General InformatIon

Diverse in culture, bountiful in nature, fabulous for shopping and unique for leisure – Dubai is a dynamic combination of these, and much more.

Whether you live in Dubai or are visiting the Emirate, the city can fulfill all your holiday dreams.

With sheer determination and unmatched innovation, Dubai has transformed itself into the region’s leading travel destination. Once a quiet coastal settlement, the emirate now boasts iconic towers that soar to the sky, thrilling theme parks, some of the finest golfing greens, massive shopping malls, multi-faceted cultural centres and even man-made islands. While its list of achievements are impressive, at the heart of this modern metropolis lie the unwavering Arabian traditions of hospitality and generosity. Endeared by the genuine warmth and friendliness of the local people, visitors rate Dubai as one of the top destinations of choice for holidays. Be it cultural, adventurous, relaxing, retailing or even meetings, events and conventions – Dubai has every tourism niche covered. brIef hIstory

Led by the Maktoum family, some 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe settled at the mouth of the Dubai Creek in 1833.

The Maktoum realised the importance of the city’s strategic location and the potential afforded by the Creek’s natural harbour. They worked towards developing Dubai into a centre for trade, fishing, pearling and shipping.

Under their highly capable leadership, by the turn of the 20th century, Dubai had become a flourishing port. More 12 | This is Dubai

than 350 merchants opened their establishments in the souk on the Deira side of the Creek – making it the largest market of its kind on the coast. In the 1950s, the late ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, had a waterway dredged in the Creek when it began to silt up – a highly ambitious and costly project for its time. This vision yielded exponential results and within a short span of time, the city was renowned as a major commercial hub of the region.

The discovery of oil in the 1960s brought increased growth and prosperity to Dubai. It was also at this time that His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, then ruler of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum had dreamt of creating a

The emirate’s travel and tourism industry is expected to enjoy further growth in the coming years.

Complete tourIsm paCkaGe

Dubai offers a plethora of shopping, dining, cultural and leisure options.

Shopping malls and souks, resorts and spas, theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries, water parks and desert drives – the city blends these distinct experiences luxuriously and flawlessly. It’s the reason why a Dubai holiday is indeed a complete holiday experience.

Nature lovers will be awed by the beauty of Dubai’s sands, wildlife sanctuaries and beaches. Dubai’s deserts can be both, a haven for serenity and a playground for thrilling activities. Conquer some of the tallest sand dunes in Arabia, go wadi bashing or off-road dune driving in powerful 4xs as part of a desert safari – a must do for all visitors. Horse and camel riding, falconry displays, quad biking and sand skiing are also offered as part of a desert safari. Visitors can soak in the spirit of Arabia at traditional Bedouinstyle camps. Guests are led to the camps at the end of the safari, where authentic Arabic gourmet awaits them – a wide spread of mezze, kibbeh, lamb and chicken roasted over spitfires, umm ali, dates and the bittersweet kahwa (Arabic coffee).

The Ras Al Khor sanctuary hosts more than 400 bird species, luring bird lovers from across the globe, while the Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa offers the most luxurious of desert and hospitality experiences.

From the exclusive Burj Al Arab and This is Dubai | 13

General InformatIon

federation of the emirates in the region.

Their dreams were realised in 1971 when Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and (in 1972) Ras Al Khaimah, joined to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The oil revenues financed major infrastructure projects such as a port and a terminal building at Dubai International Airport.

Recent times have seen the airport become the aviation and cargo hub of the Middle East. Key projects, such as the Jebel Ali man-made harbour, a free zone around the port, the Dubai Dry Docks, Shindagha Tunnel and Dubai World Trade Center, also paved the way for later developments. Driven by an inspired and visionary leadership, investor-friendly environment, first-class infrastructure, zero tax on personal and corporate income and low import duties, Dubai rapidly emerged as a regional business and tourism centre.

Instead of relying solely on oil revenues, the leadership decided to diversify the economy. Within three decades, Dubai developed itself into a quality tourism destination.

Netting fantastic results, the emirate’s investments in tourism infrastructure include the ambitious Dubai Metro and the Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport, an urban aviation community.

Dubai’s commitment to tourism was also evident in the hospitality industry’s performance in recent years.

From January to September 2011 approximately 6.6million guests stayed in the city’s hotels, which generated a revenue of AED11billion.

General InformatIon

Armani to numerous well-appointed luxury apartments, the city has various accommodation options. Your room can come with any view you want – serene sea, tranquil desert or pulsating city views.

The emirate’s sports calendar is also impressive. Dubai’s state-of-the-art sporting facilities are home to many globally renowned events such as the prestigious Dubai World Cup (the world’s richest horse race), the star-studded Dubai Desert Classic and Dubai Ladies Masters, the actionpacked Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens and the celebrated Dubai Tennis Championships. The city also boasts superb internationally accredited golf courses designed by champions like Ernie Els and Colin Montgomerie. Visit the Emirates Golf Club, The Address Montgomerie, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Al Badia and Arabian Ranches for some of the most testing greens in the region. eConomy

Dubai’s economy boomed with the discovery of oil in the 1960s. But the visionary late ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, was aware of the risks of oil dependency and actively promoted new industrial ventures. Sheikh Rashid’s efforts have been carried forward by his son, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the present Ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE. Remaining true to his father’s vision, the economy of the emirate has been successfully diversified with minimum dependence 14 | This is Dubai

on oil. Today, tourism, trade and manufacturing are Dubai’s top revenue earners.

Government

The highest federal authority in the country is the Supreme Council of the UAE, which comprises the hereditary rulers of the seven emirates.

General policy matters involving communications, education, defence, foreign affairs and development, and ratifying federal laws, fall within its purview. The Supreme Council also elects the President and Prime Minister of the country. Currently, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, is the President of the UAE. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai, is the Vice President and Prime Minister.

The Federal Council of Ministers, also known as the Cabinet, is the executive authority for the initiation and implementation of laws for the Federation and is headed by the Prime Minister.

The Federal National Council (FNC) is a consultative assembly of 40 representatives who are appointed for two years by the individual emirates. The Council monitors and debates government policy but has no veto power. The FNC is a member of the International Parliamentary Union as well as the Arab Parliamentary Union. While Abu Dhabi is the centre of federal government activities, most ministerial departments also maintain offices in Dubai.

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TRAVEL FACTS

This section contains an A-Z of essential information that can help visitors navigate their way around Dubai alCohol

busIness hours

Alcohol is available in licensed hotels and restaurants across the UAE, meaning visitors can enjoy a glass of wine with their meals.

However, the emirate of Sharjah forbids alcohol. Restaurants located outside hotels and clubs are not permitted to serve alcohol.

Business operating hours vary across the Emirates. Some companies work a straight shift from 8am to 5:30pm, while others work from 8am to1pm and again from 4pm to 7pm.

Government offices are open from 7:30am to 2:30pm. Weekends vary.

Government organisations, schools and many private companies are closed on Fridays and Saturdays, but some private companies close on Thursday afternoons and Fridays. Shop hours are similar, but many remain open until 10pm. Department stores, boutiques, souks and many supermarkets remain open on Fridays, apart from prayer time (between 11:30am and 1:30pm), while some shops open only on Friday afternoons at 4pm or 5pm. Embassies and consulates are generally open from 7:30am to 2:30pm and are closed on Fridays, Saturdays and relevant public holidays, but usually leave an emergency number on an answering machine.

General InformatIon

arts and Culture

Ignited by a rich culture and heritage, Dubai’s thriving art scene has cemented the city’s reputation as a regional centre for art and culture.

Art galleries, museums, archaeological sites, historical monuments and traditional neighbourhoods and souks abound in the city. Under the aegis of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Emirati heritage, visual arts, theatre, music, literature and poetry flourish in the emirate.

Hosting groundbreaking initiatives such as the Dubai International Film Festival, Art Dubai and Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Dubai actively nurtures local talent and promotes dialogue between cultures and nations. banks

Regular banking services are provided by several international banks with branches in Dubai. Operating a six-day week, banks are open from 8am to 2pm, Saturday to Thursday, and are closed on Fridays.

16 | Travel Facts

Car hIre

A wide range of local and internationally renowned car rental companies offer hire cars at competitive rates. Customers must produce their passports together with a valid driving licence. Visitors without an international driving licence may obtain a temporary one as long as they hold a valid national licence from one of the following countries: Germany, Spain, Belgium,

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CredIt Cards

Major payment card brands including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are generally accepted in hotels and shopping malls.

ClImate

A subtropical, arid climate ensures clear blue skies almost throughout the year.

Winter may see a few infrequent rain showers. Temperatures vary from season to season; January can fall to a low of 15°C/59°F, while July can rise to a high of 48°C/118°F. CurrenCy

The UAE currency is known as the Arab Emirate Dirham, denoted by AED or more commonly, Dhs. One dirham is divided into 100fils. Linked to the Special Drawing Right of the International Monetary Fund, the dirham has held constant against the US dollar at a midrate of approximately US$1= Dhs3.679. dubaI metro

Launched in 2009, the Dubai Metro is the world’s longest driverless automated

Travel Facts | 19

General InformatIon

Austria, Italy, Netherlands, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Greece, Turkey, UK, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Iceland, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand.

A passport and two photographs are also required. Canadian nationals must obtain an affidavit from the Canadian Consulate in Dubai, verifying the licence, before going to the Traffic Department. Driving in the UAE is on the right-hand side.

railway system. The Metro covers the length and breadth of the city with the 52km Red Line that runs from Rashidiya to Jebel Ali and the 24km Green Line, which runs from Al Qusais to Jadaf.

Normal operating hours are 6am to 11pm from Saturday to Thursday, and from 2pm to midnight on Fridays. The Dubai Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) introduced the Nol card to meet the multi-modal transit requirements of commuters using the Dubai Metro, public buses and water buses. The prepaid fare system can also be used in all RTA-operated parking zones.

For more information, log on to www.rta.ae

hotels

Dubai has a diverse economy spurred by trade, tourism, real estate and financial services. Today, travel and tourism in particular drive the emirate’s economic growth.

From iconic 5-star hotels and opulent boutique hotels to budget-friendly hotel apartments, Dubai has a wide range of accommodation options. Conference, convention, meeting and banqueting facilities are a part of almost every hotel, and celebrity-chef restaurants are a part of almost every 5-star hotel.

food

lanGuaGe

With more than 200 nationalities residing on its shores, a meal in Dubai can truly be global. From the Middle East to Latin America, cooking traditions from around the world can be savoured in the emirate’s restaurants and cafes. Prices for dining out vary widely across the city.

Generally, unlicensed (restaurants that are not allowed to sell alcoholic beverages) and independent outlets have more affordable menus compared with hotel dining venues.

Arabic is the official language of the UAE, but English is widely spoken and understood. Both languages are commonly used in business and commerce.

eConomy

General InformatIon

second largest of the seven emirates.

Located in the north-western region of the UAE, along the shores of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s most interesting geographical feature is the Dubai Creek – a natural inlet that divides the city into two parts, Deira and Bur Dubai. The emirate’s strategic location allows it convenient links with all the neighbouring Gulf states, as well as South Asia and East Africa. Blessed with the largest natural harbour in the region, Dubai is one of the Middle East’s leading trading hubs.

GeoGraphy

Spanning 3,900sqkms, Dubai is the 20 | Travel Facts

medICal servICes

The Department of Health and Medical Services provides world-class medical care for all UAE nationals, visitors and resident expatriates. The UAE has topnotch public and private hospitals that offer highly specialised health and dental care services. Emergency medical care is absolutely free in Dubai for everyone

newspapers

Gulf News, Khaleej Times, The Gulf Today and The National are the daily Englishlanguage newspapers, while Arabic newspapers include Al-Bayan, Al-Ittihad, Al-Khaleej and Emarat Al-Youm. populatIon

The population of the UAE has grown dramatically over the last two decades and was estimated at approximately 8.26 million in mid-2010. relIGIon

Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and there are a large number of mosques throughout the country.

However, other religions are equally respected, with many churches representing various religious denominations. shoppInG

Opening hours are generally from 8am to 10pm, Saturday to Thursday, while the larger shopping malls generally open from 10am and remain open all day until 10pm. On Fridays and during Ramadan, most shops are closed until 4pm.

taxIs, buses and water buses

More than 7,000 government-regulated taxis operating in the emirate, a cab is the easiest way of getting around in Dubai. The minimum fare for passengers travelling within Dubai is AED10. For transfers from the airport to any emirate, fares start from Dhs20.

An additional Dhs20 is charged if your destination is Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah or Umm Al Quwain.

Easily recognised by their pinkcoloured roof, seats and interiors, Dubai also offers ladies’ taxis driven by women drivers. In many Arab countries, ladies often prefer not to be alone with an unfamiliar male. These taxis are the ideal solution for women who do not drive and have to use public transport.

Dubai Taxi Corporation provides a convenient, round-the-clock direct booking service for taxis on +971 4 208 0808. For further information on taxi services, log on to www.dtc.dubai.ae The RTA runs an intensive public bus transport system in Dubai. Equipped with a host of amenities such as air conditioning, electronic destination and route display systems and computerised fare systems, the public bus fleet ensures the highest standard

Travel Facts | 21

General InformatIon

and there are no restrictions. Fees are applicable for non-emergency cases.

Water bus

teleCommunICatIons

Etisalat and du are the key telecommunication operators in the country. Direct dialing is available to most countries in the world.

Calls made from one fixed line to another within Dubai are free of charge.

Full telex, fax and electronic mail facilities are widely available. Most local hotels provide guests with internet facilities at a nominal charge. Dubai also has several internet cafĂŠs. Etisalat UAE Travelers helpline for tourism is 800 2300, and visitors may call 7000 1 7000 for enquiries on entertainment and shopping.

televIsIon

Dubai receives subscription television via cable or directly through satellite. The emirates leading cable provider is E-Vision, while Showtime, Orbit, Star TV and ART are the top direct satellite providers. Showtime and Orbit channels air leading English shows and movies, subtitled in Arabic. tIppInG

Tipping practices are similar to those in most parts of the world.

Where no service charge is included, a tip of 10 per cent is considered adequate and always much appreciated. utIlItIes

electricity: The electricity supply in the UAE is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles.

US-made appliances may require a transformer. water: Tap water is quite safe to drink.

Locally bottled and international mineral water is served in hotels and restaurants and is also available in supermarkets. weIGhts and measures

Officially, the metric system is followed in supermarkets.

Travel Facts | 23

General InformatIon

of passenger comfort. Most buses have a capacity of 51 sitting and 10 standing passengers, including designated seating for women, children and special needs passengers. Sleek double-decker buses and an exclusive service for women commuters have recently been added. Buses generally operate from around 5am until just after midnight on weekdays.

Operated by the RTA, the water bus is a unique way to experience the panoramic skyline between Deira and Bur Dubai. Serving five routes along the Creek, these air conditioned water buses are spacious and wheelchair accessible.

ENTERING DUBAI

General InformatIon

The procedures and requirements as detailed below are for information purposes only, and are subject to change without prior notice.

If your country of nationality appears on the list below, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa. eligible countries: UK(with the right of abode in UK), France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Finland, Spain, Monaco, Vatican, Iceland, Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and holders of Hong Kong SAR passports will be granted a free of charge visa for a single visit upon arrival in the UAE. In addition to nationals of the countries listed above, citizens of the GCC nations of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are eligible for visa on arrival. vIsas for all other travellers:

Citizens of other countries should apply for visas at the UAE embassy nearest them.  Nationals of Israel are required to obtain permission from their relevant embassy before they will be allowed to enter the UAE.  All visitors to the UAE are required to have health insurance.  Only UAE nationals are allowed to sponsor visitors who are friends. 

24 | Entering Dubai

vIsa fees • 14-days Multiple Entry Visa – Dhs2,110 (valid for six months before entry) • 90-days Long-Term Visit Visa (Individuals) – Dhs1,110 • 30-days Short-Term Visit Visa (Individuals) – Dhs610 • 90-days Long-Term Visit Visa (Companies) – Dhs1,100 • 30-days Short-Term Visit Visa (Companies) – Dhs610 • Student Visa (Sponsor must be one of the licensed universities or educational institutions in the UAE that are recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education) – Dhs1,110 • Medical Treatment – Dhs1,110 • Exhibitions/Festivals/Conferences – Dhs210 • (33) Countries upon Arrival – Dhs610 • Tourist Visa for all Nationalities • (Tourist Companies) – Dhs210 • Escorts of GCC Nationals – Dhs165 (e-form fees) • GCC Nationals (Resident) – Dhs165 (e-form fees) • Mission Visa – Dhs320 (e-form fees) • Transit Visa – Dhs165 Note: The fees mentioned above are e-DNRD fees, unless stated otherwise. In addition, a Dhs1,000 deposit will be collected by the Department of Naturalization and Residency (DNRD) before any type of visit visa is issued. This will be refunded when the visitor exits the country.

requIrements for a vIsa applICatIon:

1 Clear passport copy of the sponsor.

2 Clear passport copy of the sponsored person.

3 Travel insurance.

4 All photographs are to be recent colour photographs. Polaroid photographs are not acceptable.

5 Those who are already in the UAE may not obtain another entry permit until he/she departs from the country.

6 DNRD working hours are from 8am to 2pm Sunday to Thursday except public holidays. On Fridays and Saturdays the offices are closed.

Duty free allowances litres of spirits (non-Muslim adults only)

 Two

 Two

litres of wine (non-Muslim adults only)  10 cartons of cigarettes  100 cigars  A reasonable amount of perfume aIrports

Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, the UAE offers easy access to every major city in the world.

Flying time from London is seven hours, Frankfurt six, Hong Kong eight, Cairo four and New York 13 hours. Most European capitals and other major cities have direct flights to the UAE. All these make Dubai one of the busiest airports in the world in terms of international passenger and cargo traffic.

Serving 125 international carriers that collectively fly to more than 200 Entering Dubai | 25

General InformatIon

airport

General InformatIon

destinations globally, Dubai International Airport is a significant regional hub.

Comprising a luxury hotel, duty free shopping that is beyond compare, spas and restaurants that serve cuisines from around the world, the airport has evolved into a sophisticated lifestyle destination.

In an effort to support the emirate’s aviation, tourism, commercial and logistics requirements through 2050 and beyond, the government initiated the strategic Dubai World Central (DWC) aerotropolis project comprising the Al Maktoum International (AMI) airport.

June 2010 saw the opening of the first phase of AMI, which accommodates an A380-compatible runway, a cargo terminal capable of handling 250,000 tonnes per annum (expandable to 600,000 tonnes per annum) and a dedicated road link to the region’s largest port in Jebel Ali. The passenger terminal is still under construction; once completed, it will have a capacity of handling five million passengers per annum (expandable to 7).

The operations and development of both Dubai International and DWC-AMI are owned and managed

by Dubai Airports. dubaI CruIse termInal

The only cruise terminal in the world to be operated by a government department, namely the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), the Dubai Cruise Terminal offers cruising opportunities that range from short breaks around the Gulf to longer itineraries that see visitors charting the waters of the Middle East into the Mediterranean. Spanning an area 26 | Entering Dubai

of 3,450-sqkms, in 2010 the DTCM renovated the terminal, which was built in 2001. The new terminal has an excellent tourist support infrastructure that includes facilities such as a money exchange centre, an ATM machine, a post office outlet, a duty free shop, souvenir and gift shops and a business centre with free internet access, a VIP Majlis facility, restrooms that provide easy access to individuals with special needs, and even certified tour guides. Since it is operated by the DTCM, visitors are assured a swift entry process without any visa issues.

The cruise industry in Dubai is rapidly growing and is a significant contributor to the economy. In 2009, 263,000 passengers visited Dubai on 80 ship calls. In 2010, the number increased to 325,000 passengers in 125 calls.

By 2015, the number of passengers is expected to reach to 575,000 on 195 calls. With leading cruise operators such as Princess Cruises, Van Gogh Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn, Costa Cruise and Aida Cruises choosing Dubai Cruise Terminal as their port of call in the region, Dubai is quickly emerging as a popular cruising destination. dId you know?

The state-of-the-art lift in the central core of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, serves a total of 138 floors and has the world’s highest elevator rise of 504m – higher than Taipei 101 (448m), Sears Tower (442m) in Chicago and the Empire State Building (381m) in New York.

CULTURE & HERITAGE

While Dubai is rapidly growing as a contemporary and forward-looking society, its ethos remains deeply rooted in the timeless values of Islam. Love and respect for the culture, traditions and heritage of the country form the backbone of life in the emirates. Along with towering skyscrapers and modern marinas, souks, museums and other heritage sites stand proudly in the city.

General InformatIon

art

Art defines the soul of the city, and its efforts towards cementing itself as the region’s art and cultural hub were initiated early in 1976 with the establishment of the Dubai International Art Centre, which plays an active role in promoting the region’s traditional arts and crafts.

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority was established in 2008, reiterating Dubai’s claim as one of the arts and cultural capitals of the world. It has launched several groundbreaking initiatives such as Art Dubai and many other art fairs, festivals and exhibitions that aim to nurture young talents, promote Islamic heritage and encourage inter-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding through art. arabIan horses

Prized for their beauty, intelligence and strength, the Arabian horse has captivated the imagination of mankind from time immemorial, and Dubai has gone to great lengths to preserve this legend. The city has become the home of the world’s most prestigious horse racing challenge. With the richest purse in the world, the Dubai World Cup is the highlight of the world’s horse racing calendar. Held annually at the state-of-the-art Meydan racecourse, this 28 | Culture & Heritage

invitation-only race attracts the finest of racing breeds and a record number of tourists globally. arabIC CallIGraphy

Arabic calligraphy is the only art form that links the heritage of the Arabic language with Islam. To nurture and promote this ancient writing form, Dubai regularly organises exhibitions dedicated to calligraphy. The most popular is the annual Dubai International Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition, which brings together renowned calligraphers of the Arab and Islamic world to display their work and present a series of informative workshops and lectures. arChIteCture

Made of gypsum and coral stone with their distinctive wind towers and vast inner courtyards, the traditional houses in Dubai’s Al Bastakiya area are heralded as

arChaeoloGICal fInds

The coast of the Arabian Gulf has been inhabited for almost 4,000 years.

Hundreds of artefacts, including pottery, weapons and coinage, provide evidence that civilised settlements have existed since the third millennium BC and that the natural harbour of Dubai Creek was a busy port of call on the trade route between ancient Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley.

These historical findings have been carefully preserved and are now permanently housed in the Archaeological Section of the Dubai Museum.

The roots of modern Dubai, however, can be traced to the 1830s. Settled by the Al Maktoum dynasty, an arm of the Bani Yas tribe, the emirate was a small fishing village on the Shindagha peninsula. The credit for Dubai’s prolific rise to the top can be credited to the foresight and acute business acumen of the Maktoum family, who still rule the emirate today. the bedouIn

The Bedouin were the earliest inhabitants of the harsh Arabian desert. Nomadic,

resilient and adaptable, the Bedouin lived on what the desert yielded. Roaming the desert with herds of camel, the arid mountainsides provided a living for the sheep and goat herders, while wary farmers cultivated date palms near the oases. They relied on the trustworthy and noble camel, the ‘ship of the desert’ for milk, wool and transport. The Bedouins sheltered themselves from the unrelenting sun, bitter winters and ruthless sandstorms in tents made of wool and animal hide.

Their clothing was simple and utilitarian – a loose, flowing garment and a headscarf. boat buIldInG, fIshInG and pearl dIvInG

Life in Dubai has always been inextricably linked to the sea. Seafaring, pearl diving and fishing were the main sources of livelihood for the emirate’s earliest inhabitants. Until the first part of the 20th century, the pearl industry was Dubai’s main industry. Armed with just nose clips and their knowledge of the sea, pearl divers risked their lives to gather pearls from the ocean beds. However, the rise of the cultured pearl industry in the 1940s dealt a severe blow to the city’s pearl trade. Today, Dubai is striving to revive its pearling industry with the establishment of the Dubai Pearl Exchange, an exclusive trading platform for the pearl sector.

The courtyard of Al Fahidi Fort houses examples of early dhows and boats that showcase Dubai’s seafaring legacy.

Dioramas of pearl divers at work, along with the tools of their trade, are also displayed at the Dubai Museum.

Culture & Heritage | 29

General InformatIon

the finest examples of Gulf architecture.

In 2009, Dubai Municipality was awarded the World Architecture Award in recognition of its restoration project in the Al Bastakiya district on the house of scholar Mohammad Sharif.

The charming Barjeel or Arabian wind tower remains an integral part of modern Arabesque designs. It can be spotted around the city’s exclusive developments such as the majestic Madinat Jumeirah and the Old Town.

CommerCIal hub

Dubai’s strategic geographical position in the Persian Gulf connects it to all the neighbouring Gulf states and links it closely to South Asia and North Africa.

Its location has helped it evolve as the region’s most important trade and travel hub, and has also established its as the top stopover destination for air travel between Europe and Asia.

Initially thriving on fishing and pearl diving, the emirate has developed a highly successful trading industry for gold and other commodities after the collapse of its pearl industry. Dubai’s historic entrepreneurial skills are carefully preserved in its forts, museums, palaces and souks.

General InformatIon

falConry and Camel raCInG

An integral part of desert life, the ancient art of falconry celebrates the bond between man and nature. A regular feature in the emirate, falconry displays are held to increase public understanding and awareness of the falcon and issues pertaining to its conservation, environmental protection and cultural significance.

In recent years, the traditional Arab sport of camel racing has seen a revival.

An inherent part of the UAE’s culture,

30 | Culture & Heritage

camel racing garners support from the highest levels of society and has evolved from a mere sporting event into serious business worth thousands of dirhams. The Dubai racing season, where only young camels compete, usually takes place in March across 15 race tracks peppered around the outskirts of the emirate. musIC and danCe

Folk dances and music are an essential part of Dubai’s culture, and are very popular during weddings, festivals and national celebrations. Festive occasions see lines or circles of dancers swaying to the beats of tambourines. A sight to behold is young women swinging their tresses to the beat of drums while men re-enact battle and hunting scenes. tradItIonal dress

The distinctive Arab national dress is a symbol of pride and identity. Designed to provide comfort in high temperatures, it is also in keeping with the religious beliefs of the region. An ankle-length, loose-fitting garment known as the kandoura or dishdasha, made of white cotton, is usually worn by men. In the winter months, darker and heavier kandouras are donned. A guthra or sifrah covers the head and is held in place by the adal, a black cord.

Embroidered in gold, silver or coloured thread, Arab women wear a long-sleeved, full-length dress called a kandoura or jalabeya. This is covered entirely by a black abaya. An opaque black veil, the shayla, is draped over the hair. Some women also wear a thin veil, the gishwa, which covers the face.

ISLAM

Islam is more than a religion; it sets out a comprehensive code of conduct for its followers and is a way of life. The Holy Quran, the Noble Words of Almighty Allah (God), edifies a complete set of rules covering every aspect of human behaviour. The Islamic faith rests on the following five principles, known as the Pillars of Islam: Shahadah (testimonial of faith), Salah (ritual prayer), Zakah (alms giving), Sawm (fasting during the holy month of Ramadan) and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).

Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar calendar, during which Muslims commemorate the revelation of the noble Quran to the holy Prophet Muhammad and observe a month of fasting from dawn to dusk. In accordance with UAE law, and as a sign of respect

for those who are fasting, visitors and residents not observing the fast should refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public during the fasting hours. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated for three days. The celebrations start after special morning prayers, when gifts are exchanged. al farooq omar ibn al Khatab mosque

General InformatIon

holy month of ramadan

Islam | 31

MEDICAL CARE

General InformatIon

Regulated by the Dubai Heath Authority (DHA), the emirate has a host of hospitals that provide excellent medical care. The DHA itself provides services in the emirate’s three main hospitals – Al Wasl, Dubai and Rashid hospitals.

A ‘mother-and-child’ facility, Al Wasl is a renowned secondary and tertiary healthcare facility that specializes in obstetrics, gynaecology and paediatric surgery.

Dubai Hospital comprises numerous specialised departments and clinics, one of which is the cardiology centre. Rashid Hospital is one of the most prominent and reputable emergency medical centres in the Gulf.

Dubai also has private clinics and hospitals that offer facilities for both inpatient and outpatient care. Many of them accept cash or credit card payments and are also set up to handle medical insurance. dubaI healthCare CIty

A medical and wellness community, Dubai Health Care City (DHCC) aims to provide high quality health care, medical education and research in the region.

Partnering with the Dubai Healthcare City Free Zone, the Centre for Healthcare Planning and Quality, Harvard Medical School Dubai Centre and the Dubai Harvard Foundation for Medical Research, DHCC comprises two hospitals and over 90 outpatient medical centers and diagnostic laboratories.

DHCC is located in Bur Dubai alongside Rashid Hospital, a short distance from the Dubai Creek and the Creekside Park.

For additional information, log on to www.dhcc.ae 32 | Healthcare Services

Government hospItals al wasl hospital Tel: +971 4 219 3000 www.dohms.gov.ae dubai hospital Tel: +971 4 219 5000 www.dohms.gov.ae rashid hospital Tel: +971 4 219 2000 www.dohms.gov.ae

prIvate healthCare Centres Al Mousa Medical Centre Tel: +971 4 345 2999 www.almousamedical.com

Medcare Hospital Tel: +971 4 407 9100 www.medcarehospital.com

American Hospital Dubai Tel: +971 4 336 7777 www.ahdubai.com

Moorfields Eye Hospital Tel: +971 4 429 7888 www.moorfields.ae

Belhoul European Hospital Tel: +971 4 345 4000 www.belhouleuropean.com

Neuro Spinal Hospital Tel: +971 4 342 0000 www.nshdubai.com

Belhoul Speciality Hospital Tel: +971 4 273 3333 www.belhoulspeciality.com

New Medical Centre Tel: +971 4 268 9800 www.nmc.ae

Dubai Mall Medical Centre Tel: +971 4 449 5111 Email: appointments@ tdmmc.com www.thedubaimaill.com

Prime Medical Centre Tel: + 971 4 2720720 www.pmcdubai.com

Iranian Hospital Tel: +971 4 344 0250 www.irhosp.ae Jebel Ali Hospital Tel: +971 4 884 5666 www.jebelalihospital.com

The City Hospital Tel: +971 4 435 9900 www.ehl.ae Welcare Hospital Tel: +971 4 282 7788 www.welcarehospital.ae Zulekha Hospital Tel: +971 4 217 5600 www.zulekhahospitals.com

His dream We fulfilled his

was to reach the top.

heart’s desire.

The Heart Center at American Hospital Dubai When it comes to your heart, we never skip a beat As the new regional center for cardiac care, our Heart Center provides American standards of service to patients. We are equipped to treat all types of cardiac conditions and perform advanced interventional and surgical procedures. After all, life is about living it up.

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To book an appointment call +971-4-377-6571

T HE LUX URY O F A HOT EL W IT H T HE C O MFO RT S O F HO ME Rising high above the fringe of Media City, Fraser Suites Dubai enjoys panoramic views over the sparkling coastline and stunning cityscape.

Superb apartment accomodation, lifestyle facilities, relaxed dining in Aqua Café and the exclusive Awazen Spa - Fraser Suites Dubai has it all.

Add the award-winning Fraser Difference - renowned personalised service and outstanding facilities to meet your every need. Welcome home.

Reservations: +971 (04) 4401400, Email: reservations.dubai@frasershospitality.com, www.frasershospitality.com The Fraser Collection Bahrain • Bangkok • Beijing • Budapest • Chengdu • Doha • Dubai • Edinburgh • Glasgow • Hanoi • Hong Kong • Istanbul Jakarta • Kuala Lumpur • London • Manila • Melbourne • Nanjing • New Delhi • Osaka • Paris • Seoul • Shanghai • Shenzhen Singapore • Suzhou • Sydney • Tianjin • Bangalore (2012) • Guangzhou (2012) • Perth (2012) Wuhan (2012) • Wuxi (2012) • Chennai (2013)

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dress Code

photoGraphy restrICtIons

As a sign of respect for local customs and traditions, a conservative dress code is strongly advised. Wearing revealing clothing in public places should be avoided at all times. Swimwear is acceptable only at hotel pools, resorts and beaches. Before leaving those areas, change into casual wear.

Most people do not like strangers taking their photo without their permission, and the same holds true in the Gulf. Avoid taking photographs of Arab women, as it is considered intrusive and rude.

Photographing military installations, government buildings and private premises is strictly prohibited.

GreetInG

tIps on soCIal etIquette

The acceptable male greeting on meeting a Gulf Arab is to stand up and shake hands. However, for a man to shake the hand of a Muslim woman (and vice versa) is, in most circumstances, considered unacceptable. Local women will not usually offer their hand to a man and will nod and smile instead. Some local men prefer not to shake hands with women. If in doubt, wait until a hand is offered when meeting someone for the first time.

 Always

personal ConduCt and etIquette

Rude and arrogant behaviour is unacceptable. Public displays of affection between men and women are considered disrespectful and can be subject to arrest. There is zero tolerance for drunken driving and inappropriate behaviour while under the influence of alcohol; both are also subject to arrest.

Do not drink alcohol in public.

Swearing is considered very offensive.

During the holy month of Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking in public are strictly prohibited.

remove your footwear when you enter a person’s home. If you are with a female companion, be prepared for her to be escorted to another section. Accept food and refreshment first before you move on to any business.

Sharing a meal together will give your host much pleasure.  Standing up for new guests – especially older, higher-ranking people – is important. Typically, elderly people are greeted first. Men also are expected to stand when a woman enters.  Accept refreshments only with your right hand, which should also be used for eating and drinking.  Do not offer any alcoholic refreshments or food with pork to your Muslim guest.  Avoid showing the soles of your feet, or pointing your foot at anyone.

Crossing your legs and sitting in front of an important guest or official is also considered rude.  Do not beckon or ask someone to come to you with your finger. If you wish to use a hand gesture, use the whole palm and fingers.

Do’s and Don’ts | 35

General InformatIon

DO’S AND DON’TS

FLORA AND FAUNA

The Arabian Desert may seem barren and harsh, but a closer look reveals unique ecosystems that thrive within its sands. Providing habitat to many indigenous species of flora and fauna, the desert teems with life.

Preserving the natural environment of the animal and bird species of Arabia is of immense importance to Dubai. The emirate’s active and strong conservation efforts are evident in its wildlife reserves, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary – two groundbreaking initiatives in the Middle East.

General InformatIon

dubaI desert ConservatIon reserve

Covering 225sqkm of the Dubai inland desert ecosystem, the DDCR is the first wildlife conservation area in the UAE. Home to 57 plant species, over 120 birds and 43 mammals and reptiles, the reserve is spread over 90km of shifting sand dunes and accounts for about 5% of the total land area of Dubai.

An official member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature since 2008, the DDCR has also been recognised by the United Nations Environment Program and is included in the United Nations List of Protected Areas – one of the few wildlife sanctuaries in the Middle East. All the revenue earned from visitor entrance fees is used towards conservation projects carried out within the reserve.

In order to restore the sensitive balance of the ecosystem, a campaign of ‘species seeding’ was implemented by the DDCR in September 2009. A variety of 6,200 indigenous trees and shrubs was planted 36 | Flora and Fauna

within the reserve with the aim of creating a seed bank for natural germination once they established themselves in the surroundings. These would then provide food and shelter for a wide variety of animals, from hedgehogs to gazelles.

A visit to the DDCR is an eye opener for those who think the desert is barren.

Visitors will be awed by the sight of the iconic Arabian Oryx and the nimble yet graceful sand and mountain gazelles as they wander through their natural habitat.

The DDCR also shelters more than 40 mammal and reptile species native to the Arabian Peninsula, such as the Arabian hare, sand fox, Arabian red fox and Gordon’s wild cat.

The reserve is a thriving abode for reptiles such as the Arabian sand gecko; sand fish that sport unique claw markings on their flanks; the Gulf sand gecko, commonly known as the ‘sit and wait’ hunter; and the spiny-tailed lizard.

It also showcases some exquisite species of indigenous flora. The date palm, the ghaf tree with its edible leaves, and flower-bearing sidr trees are common to the area. Feeding on the blossoms of the sidr, wild bees produce honey that is claimed to be the most expensive in the world. One can also find a spectrum of desert shrubs blooming in the sanctuary, such as the pink bloom – laden Sodom apple; the broom bush, a shrub that shelters the gazelle and oryx; rimth, which is

al maha desert resort & spa

Conceptualised from an evolution of ideas from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Al Maha was established in 1999 as a tribute to the emirate’s traditional life.

It boasts its own embryonic conservation area that is responsible for the reintroduction of the original populations of the Arabian oryx and gazelle.

In 2003, the boundaries of its original reserve were massively extended to create the DDCR. Al Maha has remained at the centre of the DDCR,

arabian onyx

and the sole responsibility for and management of the DDCR’s activities and operations lies with Dubai’s Emirates Airline.

Drawing inspiration from the luxury lodges of South Africa, Malaysia and Indonesia, Al Maha – Arabic for the Arabian oryx – reflects old-style Arabian architecture and combines the best of nature with the most luxurious of man-made comforts.

With the largest private collection of original Arabian antiques and artworks in the Gulf, it is an important repository of over 2,000 historic and rare pieces of art, weaponry, Bedouin handicrafts and traditional jewelry. Spread across vast shifting sand dunes, Al Maha replicates a Bedouin encampment and offers 42 plush individual suites, each with its own private temperature-controlled swimming pool.

Things you must do while in Al Maha Explore the unique desert surroundings in a four-wheel drive vehicle or on camel back with the help of a safari guide, and partake of the delicious and indulge in an authentic desert barbecue with a Bedouin feel. Of Dubai’s many desert safari operators, just three have been permitted to organise these trips within the conservation reserve – Arabian Adventures, Alpha Tours and Lama Desert Tours.

Traditional pursuits such as falconry, camel treks, horse riding and archery are also offered under the guidance of experts. Even desert walks that explore the sandy ecosystems can be arranged with the resort's conservationists.

Flora and Fauna | 37

General InformatIon

traditionally used to make soap; the lilac/pink flower-bearing fagonia; and the Arabian primrose, which produces delicate yellow blossoms.

ras al khor wIldlIfe sanCtuary

General InformatIon

Dubai is one of the best birdwatching destinations in the Middle East. Its unique and diverse ecosystem draws thousands of greater flamingos, dunlins, ospreys, little egrets and spoonbills.

These birds rest and feed on the emirate’s mudflats during their migration between Asia and Africa.

The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a UAE Ramsar site that spans an area of 620 hectares and acts as a critical

38 | Flora and Fauna

staging ground for the wintering birds of the East Africa-West Asian flyway.

Supporting more than 25,000 water birds of 88 species and more than 500 species of flora and fauna, Ras Al Khor is one of the best managed arid zone wetlands in the region. Currently, the sanctuary operates two bird hides – the Mangrove and Flamingo Hides – from which visitors can view the following avian species: Black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) This long pink-legged bird

yellow legs, a red bill and facial wattles, a white tail, belly, flanks and upper face with black on its crown, chest, fore neck stripe and tail tip.

Socotra cormorant (Phalacrocorax nigrogularis) Widespread in the Arabian Peninsula, the Emirates alone accounts for 15 to 33 per cent of the estimated world population of this species.

Taking advantage of the abundantly available fish stocks, they breed in tight colonies on the serene Gulf Islands. A breathtaking sight to behold is when thousands of these birds fly up and down the coast in close formation, sometimes taking up to an hour or two just to fly past.

Regular visiting hours are from 9am to 4pm daily. During Ramadan, visiting hours are from 9am to 2pm, Sunday to Thursday. The wildlife reserve is closed on Fridays.

Individuals and family groups of up to five people can proceed directly to the nature reserve and register at the hides.

Group visitors and tour operators need to submit applications via e-service to: Marine Environment & Wildlife Section Environment Department Dubai Municipality, PO Box 67 Dubai Tel: +971 4 606 6822 or 606 6826 Fax: +971 4 703 3532 Application forms can be downloaded and submitted through e-service. First, register on the website www.dm.gov. ae and get a username and a password.

Allow one to two working days for the processing of the permit.

For more Sanctuary website www.wildlife.ae.

Flora and Fauna | 39

General InformatIon

is partial to marsh, weedy lakes and flooded fields. It uses its long, thin black bill to pick crustaceans and insects from the sand or water.

Broad-billed sandpiper (Limicola falcinellus) Small waders with a long, straight bill and short legs. The breeding adult has patterned dark grey upper parts and white under parts with blackish markings on its breast.

Crab plover (Dromas ardeola) Named after its favourite food, this bird has a strong and heavy bill that is perfect for eating crabs. The crab plover has a white plumage except for a touch of black on its back and in the primary feathers of its wings.

Greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber) After its first appearance in the Arabian Peninsula in1922, this migrant bird wasn’t seen on the shores of this region again until 1993, when a colony nested in Abu Dhabi. In recent years, up to 2,000 birds have wintered in Khor, the largest flock occurrence.

Indian roller (Coracias benghalensis) Taking its name from the amazing “roller” display it puts on, this bird explodes into brilliant blue as it ascends to the skies. It usually congregates around fields in spring, when moth and butterfly larvae are abundant.

Little green bee-eater (Merops orientalis) With expanding irrigation and landscaping projects creating abundance in food and habitat, this charming bird is one of the country’s success stories. It can be widely see in the northern and eastern parts of the UAE. Red-wattled lapwing (Vanellus indicus) A riot of colour, this large wader has

exploring dubai

 Dubai lanDmarks  musEums anD HEriTaGE siTEs  al basTakiYa  arT GallEriEs  soak in THE sun  Fun For THE WHolE FamilY

40 | Exploring Dubai

DUBAI LAnDMARKS Dubai is renowned for its iconic architecture, traditional souks and well-preserved heritage areas. The muezzin’s calls to prayer, the buzz of a pulsating night life, the aromas of spice souks, the scents of designer fragrances – the superb blend of these distinct forms gives the city a unique feel.

Feel the soul of Dubai at these extraordinary landmarks: burj kHalifa

Rising above the city at 828m, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Pushing the boundaries of high rise developments, the Burj was inspired by the desert flower, the Hymenocallis. The organising principles of the towers’ design were based around the triple-lobed bloom’s harmonious structure - three towers arranged around a central core. Wrapped in glass, steel and aluminium, the mega structure required 24,348 cladding units and has 57 lifts that utilise the most advanced of elevator technologies. The Burj even has the world’s highest rising double-deck elevator cabs that serve two floors simultaneously.

For a first-hand experience of this engineering marvel, undertake the awesome ‘At the Top’ journey that takes you to level 124 of Burj Khalifa.

Multimedia presentations that chronicle Dubai’s fascinating history inform and entertain guests during their vertical ascent. The observation deck with floorto-ceiling glass walls provides a stunning unobstructed view of the city, desert and ocean. A tour of the Dubai landscapes from the Top of the Burj Khalifa can be completed in approximately 45 minutes

and tickets can be purchased in advance or on arrival.

The interiors are designed with the tower’s iconic global status and also paying tribute to the local culture. More than 1000 specially commissioned pieces of art from Middle Eastern and international artists adorn the walls of the Burj. The centerpiece, located in the tower’s residential lobby, is an artwork featuring 196 bronze and brass alloy cymbals – representing the 196 countries of the world – suspended on titanium rods anchored at the bottom of two pools. The 18-carat gold-plated cymbals create a distinct timbre as water gently drips onto them.

The tower also homes At.mosphere, the world’s highest restaurant. Located on the 122nd floor, it is a fine-dining establishment that focuses on serving only the finest and freshest ingredients, including prime cuts and organic poultry.

Or guests can relax in the lounge, which serves a menu of light meals, appetisers or afternoon tea throughout the day.

The superlative Armani Hotel is also located in the Burj Khalifa. Boasting 160 chic guestrooms and suites, sophisticated meeting and banqueting facilities, a luxurious spa, five gourmet restaurants and the region’s first Armani/ Privé nightclub. It also houses 144 one- and two-bedroom Armani residences.

Dubai Landmarks | 41

burj al arab

exploring dubai

Resembling the billowing sail of an Arabian dhow, the majestic Burj Al Arab was the first architectural wonder that become synonymous with a Dubai that looks forward yet has not forgotten the past. Rising 321m above sea level, Burj Al Arab is built on an artificial island on Jumeirah Beach. With interiors dressed in rich hues of crimson and gold, and luxurious furnishings, Burj Al Arab epitomises Arabian opulence.

A fleet of Rolls Royces to chauffeur guests; rain showers and Jacuzzis in every suite, discreet in-suite check-in and check-out facilities, a personal shopper and around-the-clock butler services – the hotel has the finest that the world can offer.

Its Royal Suite is akin to a miniature palace and features a private elevator, a private cinema, a master bedroom with a rotating four-poster canopy bed

and a second bedroom – each with an adjoining marble bathroom with a spa bath, a walk-in shower, fine porcelain fittings and full-sized Hermés bathroom products. atlantis, tHe palM

The crowning glory of Palm Jumeirah is the Atlantis The Palm. Located at the top of the crescent, Atlantis rises majestically over the soft white sands and shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf. The hotel’s 1539 rooms have a distinct aquatic theme, especially the Lost Chambers Suites that offer direct views of the Ambassador Lagoon – a mesmerising underwater world that houses 65,000 marine animals. Atlantis also offers 700m of pristine white beaches, the exhilarating Aquaventure water park, the interactive Dolphin Bay, a sensual spa and an eclectic mix of celebrity restaurants such as Nobu, atlantis, The Palm

42 | Dubai landmarks

Palm Jumeirah Crescent. The trains are available at 23 minute intervals to and fro. Dubai RTA taxis are available, both at the Gateway and Atlantis stations for onward connections. deira Creekside

Striking works of architecture frame the banks of the Deira Creek. The Etisalat Tower with its distinctive ‘golf ball’ top, headquarters of the National Bank of Dubai whose shimmering façade is inspired by the dhows that ply the creek, the intricate window screens of the Department of Economic Development, the dramatic blue glass structure of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry that symbolises the Emirate’s prosperity and forward vision – these set the tone for the iconic works that have followed in recent years. A dhow cruise after sunset, when the buildings are splendidly lit up, is the best way to soak up the beauty of these structures. dubai world trade Centre

The focal point of the Sheikh Zayed Road, this 39-storey office tower was the first commissioned property of the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

Today the DWTC encompasses the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Convention Tower office building, the Novotel and Ibis hotels and the Dubai International Hotel Apartments. eMirates towers

These buildings were conceptualized as a symbol of Dubai’s economic Dubai landmarks | 43

exploring dubai

Rostang’s Brasserie, Locatelli’s Ronda Locatelli and Santamaria’s Ossiano.

Catering to everyone’s holiday dreams, Atlantis even has exclusive facilities for kids and teens. For guests between the ages of four and twelve, the Atlantis Kids Club offers exciting recreational experiences tailored specifically to their age, interests and energy levels. Teens can chill out in Club Rush – an exclusive, safe, alcoholfree and supervised environment tailormade for teens.

‘The Zone’ in the hotel’s East Tower is a state-of-the-art arcade that features the best in arcade machines from around the world. This leisure facility has the latest full-motion simulators, racing, shooting, sports, dancing, redemption and novelty games.

Access to the hotel is as unique as the hotel itself. A six-lane underwater vehicle tunnel ‘surfaces’ next to the resort while guests may also board a monorail to be transported through the centre of The Palm Jumeirah directly to Atlantis The Palm. They can leave their cars at the base of the trunk in a secure, dedicated parking area. The first system of its kind in the Middle East, the Palm Monorail carries up to 2400 passengers an hour either way in four separate trains, each made up of three cars. State of the art, fully automatic and driverless, the monorail runs on rubber tyres and is almost noiseless.

Currently the monorail connects two operational stations, Gateway Station on Al Sofouh road in Jumeirah and The Atlantis Aquaventure station on the

exploring dubai

Emirates Towers 44 | Dubai landmarks

prosperity. Its elegant lines encompass a triangle - a form evocative of the Islamic culture. It comprises a 350m office tower and a 305m hotel tower connected by a central podium which is home to some of the city’s most elite shopping brands. The five-star business hotel has 400 well-appointed rooms and suites and excellent meeting and business facilities.

gold and diaMond park

More than 100 jewellery manufacturers and retailers reside at the Gold and Diamond Park in Dubai. It is conveniently located on the fourth interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road and bounty seekers can revel in the unique collections of pure gold, Tahitian black pearls and Australian white pearls at the Park.

Perched on the banks of the Dubai Creek (on the Garhoud side), Festival City is a vibrant waterfront destination that hosts a wide selection of retailers, dining establishments and world-class entertainment. With more than 600 shops, including 25 flagship stores, more than a hundred restaurants and cafes, a 12-screen cinema complex and Bowling City, the Festival Centre is the heart of the Festival City.

Mirroring an ancient Arab citadel, this resort is a tribute to Dubai’s Arabian heritage.

Opulence and tradition blend impeccably in its two grand boutique hotels and 29 courtyard summer houses. Its traditional souq with 75 elite boutiques, a theatre seating 442 people, an amphitheatre, the 26-treatment-roomed Talise Spa, 44 world-class restaurants and bars, the region’s leading conference and banqueting centre, unlimited recreational facilities and the Quay Health Club all make Madinat Jumeirah a one-stop holiday destination.

madinat Jumeirah Dubai landmarks | 45

exploring dubai

Madinat juMeiraH festiVal Centre – dubai festiVal City

exploring dubai

Meydan City

The most iconic horse-racing development in the Middle East, Meydan is an interconnected cityscape where sports, business and cosmopolitan living merge harmoniously. The world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup is hosted annually at the Meydan Racecourse – the world’s largest integrated racing facility which comprises a 1,750m all-weather Tapeta surface track and 2,400m turf track. At the centre of the entire development is the Meydan Grandstand that can accommodate 60,000 race goers and is also home to the world’s first luxury five-star trackside hotel. The Grandstand even includes more than 10 fine-dining restaurants, the Meydan Museum and Gallery, an IMAX theatre and offices of the Dubai Racing Club as 46 | Dubai landmarks

well as the Emirates Racing Authority and a peerless breeding and training facility. Yachts from the Dubai Creek can sail directly into the Meydan Marina. Berthing up to 80 yachts at a time, the marina gives direct access to the waterfront restaurant and cafes.

During race night, sea farers can catch all the racing action from within the comfort of their vessel. sHeikH Zayed road

The arterial road that links old Dubai with the new ‘Downtown’ Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road is the longest and busiest road in the UAE. With some of the city’s most iconic and impressive structures such as the Emirates Towers and Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Metro’s Red Line alongside it, the vibrancy and pulse of the Emirates can be felt while driving down the Sheikh Zayed Road.

Located at the Meydan Racecourse, The Meydan Hotel combines the passion for equestrian sports with worldclass luxury and traditional Arabic hospitality.

Refreshingly different

Situated in the heart of the desert, Bab Al Shams is an oasis of elegance and luxurious relaxation and a great getaway for the whole family.

www.meydanhotels.com or call 800 MEYDAN +971 4 381 3231

MUSEUMS AnD HERITAGE SITES

al aHMadiya sCHool and Heritage House

Al Ahmadiya was established in 1912

by Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Bin Dalmouk, Al Ahmadiya. It was Dubai’s first school and taught the Holy Qu’ran, Arabic calligraphy, grammar, mathematics and literature. Fees were nominal, amounting to a couple of rupees. The tuition for students of impoverished families was paid by the sheikhs. In 1956, with the introduction of formal education in Dubai, Al Ahmadiya introduced English, Sociology and Science as a part of the new curriculum.

al booM tourist Village

This majestic structure beside the Dubai Creek is reminiscent of an Emirati village where visitors can experience the spirit of Arabian hospitality. The village consists of a 2,000 seat banquet hall, a coffee shop, a restaurant that serves the freshest of seafood as well as international gourmet, an amusement park, an ornamental lake and marina. Guests can also book a dhow cruise on any one of the five traditional dhows that belong to and set sail from the village. bait al wakeel

Built in 1934 by the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Bait Al Wakeel was Dubai’s first office building.

Situated on the edge of the Dubai Creek, near the abra abra or rowing boat landing in Bur Dubai, the building features distinct Arab architectural and aesthetic elements. In 1995, the building was restored and converted into a heritage restaurant.

Museums and Heritage Sites | 49

exploring dubai

A trip to Dubai would be incomplete without a stop at its famed heritage areas and museums. Displaying relics of bygone eras and showcasing the cultural roots of the Emirates, these historical landmarks have been carefully preserved by the Government. Most tour operators offer packages that stop at the following sites:

bin jaM’aan House

One of the finest examples of traditional Gulf architecture, the Bin Jam’aan House was built in 1890 by the famous merchant of the same name. It is now a museum that showcases the intricacies of Arabian architecture. burj naHar

This watchtower dates back to 1870 when it was built to guard the old city of Dubai. Burj Nahar and its surrounding gardens have now become the focus of many a camera lens.

One of the more significant exhibits portrays pearl diving, including sets of pearl merchants’ weights, scales and sieves.

Hatta Heritage Village

Situated in the heart of the rocky Hatta Mountains, 115km southeast of Dubai, the Hatta Heritage Village was opened in 2001. Consisting of two watchtowers, a mosque and houses made of tome, mud, reeds and palm trunks; this traditional village provides a fascinating glimpse into Dubai’s historical past.

exploring dubai

dubai MuseuM

The Dubai Museum is located inside the majestic Al Fahidi Fort which was built in 1787 to guard the landward approach to the city. Renovated in 1971 into a museum, it exhibits spectacular lifesize dioramas that depict life in the Emirate before the discovery of oil. Vivid scenes from the Creek, traditional Arab houses, desert and marine life, souks and date farms are recreated in its vast galleries.

Artifacts recovered from graves dating back to the third millennium BC are also on display.

50 | Museums and Heritage Sites

Heritage and diVing Village

Providing an important platform for the Emirate’s potters and weavers to display their crafts, the heritage and diving village has been modelled after a traditional Bedouin village. Complete with quaint barasti houses, an outdoor kitchen, a traditional souk, ancient armoury, utensils and costumes, it recreates the lifestyle of a bygone era. naif MuseuM

Strategically located in the main

old souks

Selling almost everything from gold, perfumes, textiles, spices, traditional jewellery, antiques and souvenirs, Dubai’s souks are symbolic of the commercial roots of the city. union House

A replica of the ‘Roundhouse’, the Union House honours the most historical moments of the UAE. It is built on the site where the documents for the formation of the UAE were signed in 1972 and where the UAE national flag was unveiled for the first time.

It is also the location of the office of the former ruler, His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. sHeikH saeed al MaktouM House

Typical of late 19th century Arabian architecture, this two-storey building was the official residence of HH Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai (1912-1958) and grandfather of the present ruler of the Emirate, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-president and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai. Standing proudly on the Shindagha end of the Dubai creek, the house has vaulted and high-beamed

ceilings, arched doorways, sculpted window overhangs and trellis screens.

On the ground floor, a large meeting room or majlis, spacious living rooms, storerooms and a kitchen open onto a central courtyard that is shielded from the hot desert winds by high perimeter walls. The upper floor, with its many bedrooms and balconies, provides a spectacular view of the city’s skyline.

The façade of the house is dominated by what is, perhaps, the world’s earliest form of air conditioning – four elegant wind towers which were the traditional means of cooling the interior during the scorching summer months. Today, with its displays of rare photographs, coins, stamps and documents, Sheikh Saeed’s house is a listed national monument that showcases the history of the Emirate’s development. uMM al sHief Majlis

This seaside Majlis was built in the mid 1950s, as the summer retreat for the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The two storey house has traditional décor including Arabic style carpets and coffee pots. The structure includes a terrace, storeroom and the Majlis gardens which feature the unique falaj irrigation system and a traditional palm tree garden. did you know?

Hatta Heritage Village’s history can be traced back to 2000 to 3000 years. It consists of 30 buildings, each differing in size, interior layout and the type of building materials used.

Museums and Heritage Sites | 51

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commercial district of Naif in Deira, the Naif Fort (and now museum) was the first headquarters of Dubai Police.

It was also the first training centre for police personnel. The fort is unique in that it is built from two types of clay – Al Madar, known for its cohesive qualities and Al Chandal.

AL BASTAKIYA Named after the Bastak region of Iran where many of its residents migrated, a visit to Al Bastakiya is akin to stepping back in time. Established in 1859 during the rule of the late Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum bin Butti bin Suhail Al Maktoum, the Al Bastakiya district is characterised by old traditional houses with large courtyards, tall windtowers and narrow winding lanes. Al Bastakiya houses several traditional locations that can be used for films, corporate and cultural events, exhibitions and fairs.

Tel: +971 4 353 9265 Some of the attractions worth a visit in Al Bastakiya are:

exploring dubai

art ConneCtion

The freedom, creativity and talent of Emirati artists comes to life at Art Connection, a UAE-based arts management and cultural consultancy.

Located in the heritage area of Al Bastakiya, Art Connection comprises offices and a gallery space that specialise in promoting Emirati artists.

Tel: +971 4 354 0304 basta art CafĂŠ

Located on the Al Bastakiya roundabout, Basta Art CafĂŠ serves freshly brewed coffee and mouth-watering snacks in cultural surroundings. bastakiaH nigHts restaurant

With stunning views of the colourful dhows that ply the Dubai Creek from its rooftop, and serving sumptuous 52 | Al Bastakiya

Arab and Iranian fare, Bastakiah Nights is a must.The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner.

Tel: +971 4 353 7772 www.bastakiah.com CalligrapHy in House 188

Learn the traditional Arabic art of calligraphy with renowned Arabic calligrapher and designer Atiq Ali

Ansari. Learn the origins and intricacies of this unique art form in his workshop, House 188.

Tel: +971 50 507 1410

even undertake walking tours of the historically restored windtower area.

Tel: +971 4 353 6666 www.cultures.ae

Coins MuseuM

xVa gallery

A numismatist’s delight, the Coin Museum houses more than 470 unique coins.

Tel: +971 4 353 9090

XVA gallery has been a meeting point for the cultural community of Dubai since 2003. Comprising a gallery, shops, an Art hotel, a dhow, cafĂŠ and expert consultancy services in arts and culture management, XVA offers artists and the public the largest exhibition space in the city.

Tel: +971 4 353 5383 www.xvagallery.com

gypsuM worksHops at tHe restoration House

Discover the secret behind the spectacular ornaments of Al Bastakiya in gypsum workshops organised by the Architectural Heritage Society. Visitors are given the opportunity to mould this soft mineral into ornaments.

Tel: +971 4 353 9090 Majlis gallery

exploring dubai

Set in a delightful courtyard, the Majlis Gallery has been exhibiting artworks and artefacts from the Middle East and around the world for the past 22 years.

Tel: +971 4 353 6233 www.themajlisgallery.com sHeikH MoHaMMed Centre for Cultural understanding (sMCCu)

The SMCCU was set up with the aim of bringing down barriers between different nationalities and helping them understand the traditions, customs and religion of the UAE. The Centre organises cultural breakfasts and meals that are hosted by UAE nationals, over which guests can have all their queries about Dubai answered. Visitors can Al Bastakiya | 53

MOSQUES grand Mosque

juMeiraH Mosque

Built in the traditional Islamic architectural style, the Grand Mosque boasts the tallest minaret in the city at 70m. It also has nine large domes with stained glass panels, 45 small domes, blue mosaic work, wooden shutters and sand-coloured facades.

Accommodating 1,200 worshippers, the mosque is the main centre of worship and an important Dubai monument. While non-Muslims are not allowed in the mosque itself, they can visit the minaret. Photography is allowed and the best time to visit is after sunset when the mosque is brilliantly lit up.

One of the largest and most beautiful Mosques in Dubai, the Jumeirah mosque is an exquisite example of the combination of medieval Fatimidstyle architecture and modern building materials. Built completely in white stone, towering twin minarets frame a large central dome. After sunset the mosque is subtly lit up highlighting its intricate artistry. The only mosque in Dubai which is open to non-Muslims, visitors must be accompanied by a dedicated guide of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Appropriate dress code is required.

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Jumeirah mosque

54 | Art Galleries

ART GALLERIES

art attaCk gallery

Art Attack gives artists from the Gulf region, Europe, Africa, India, the United States and Canada a superior platform to highlight their most captivating works. Established in 2006, it is located in the Jumeirah area between Al Wasl and Jumeirah Beach Roads. www.artattackgallery.net artspaCe

Catering to a sophisticated Dubai art market and a discerning worldwide collector base, ArtSpace is dedicated to the promotion of contemporary Middle Eastern art and artists. www.artspace-dubai.com

dubai CoMMunity tHeatre and arts Centre (duCtaC)

With courses ranging from painting and sketching to sculpting and photography, DUCTAC gives expression to creativity for enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. Its premises also feature a gallery, a library, the Centre for Musical Arts and an art supplies shop. www.ductac.org dubai international art Centre (diaC)

The DIAC has been cultivating Dubai’s local art and culture scene since 1976 through its Gallery 76 that features a rotating collection of art pieces in every style and media. www.artdubai.com eleMenta

Ayyam Gallery represents some of the region’s most prolific contemporary artists with a fascinating collection of painting, sculptures and photographs.

It also launched the Shabab Ayyam Project, an incubator programme for emerging artists in the region. www.ayyamgallery.com

Located in the Dubai Airport Expo, Elementa is a modern art gallery that features works by both established and emerging artists from around the world. A warehouse was specially converted into an inspiring contemporary space for Elementa’s art works. The gallery is closed during the months of July and August. www.galleryelementa.com

gallery isabelle Van den eynde

four seasons raMesH gallery

Located in a warehouse in Al Quoz, this gallery showcases the best works of the Middle East’s innovative artists and provides unique opportunities for art collectors. http://ivde.net/

Named after the celebrated photographer Ramesh Shukla whose striking images of the UAE are displayed on its walls, the Ramesh Gallery was set up in 1970. One of the largest galleries in Dubai, it exhibits and sells artworks

ayyaM gallery

Art Galleries | 55

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Art thrives in Dubai and this is evident by the number of art galleries that have mushroomed across the city.

Dhs.299/- US $ 82/- Per Person Safari Dhs.399/ - US$110/-

Dhow Cruise Dhs. 199/- US $ 55/-

Dhs. 499/- US $ 137/Musandam Dibba is a very charming and scenic place in Oman peninsula. The tour to the breathtakingly beautiful place is entertaining and relaxing.

Musandam Dibba boasts lot of natural sites and marine activities in its colorful and crystal clear waters.

HATTA MOUNTAIN SAFARI

Dhs. 499/ US $ 137/-

of local and international artists. The Ramesh gallery not only houses an extensive collection of furniture, lighting, upholstery and accessories, but is also the operator of the largest picture-frame factory in the Gulf. www.fourseasonsgallery.com

green art gallery

4 walls art gallery

tHe tHird line

Showcasing Middle Eastern and international modern art, 4 Walls Art Gallery serves as a cultural meeting place for art enthusiasts, artists and serious collectors. The gallery also organises painting and sculpture workshops and art classes for children and students. www.4walls-dubai.com

One of the best galleries of its kind, The Third Line showcases contemporary Middle Eastern Art. It made its debut in 2011 by hosting an exhibition of ornate mirror mosaic works, the solo creations of Monir Shahroudy Farmanfarmaian. www.thethirdline.com

exploring dubai

One of the first galleries to exhibit Arabic art in Dubai, Green Art promotes the works of pioneering modern artists from across the Middle East and North Africa. www.gagallery.com

Art Galleries | 57

SOAK In THE SUn

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Though Dubai is naturally a desert landscape, it is leafy all through the year. The city’s perennially green and impeccably landscaped side-walks and

safa park

58 | Soak in the Sun

gardens can be credited to the tireless efforts of the Dubai Municipality which responsible for their maintenance. The city has many parks and gardens for the

Zabeel teCHnology tHeMe park

The first technology based park in the Gulf, Zabeel Technology Theme Park showcases the Emirate’s accomplishments in the field of information and communication technology. The massive park is spread across three areas between the Dubai World Trade Centre, Karama and Zabeel Road, which are connected by pedestrian foot bridges.

The highlight of the park is Stargate, an entertainment centre that features high tech interactive displays including a space maze. It also has football pitches, a mini-golf course, a jogging track, a viewing tower, a 3D theatre and an IMAX cinema.

wheels. Visitors can even play football, volleyball, basketball and tennis in the park’s dedicated sports section.

A special quarter of the park has also been reserved for only women and children. al MaMZar beaCH park

Taking beach-park picnicking to a whole new level, Mamzar offers a swimming pool, a roller skating area, football ground, basket ball court, open green spaces with picnic and fully equipped barbecue areas, an amphitheatre, chalets that can be rented and a fivepronged beach area. dubai Creekside park

Framing the west shore of the Dubai Creek, stands the Dubai Creekside Park. It is home to some of the city’s top attractions such as the Dubai Dolphinarium, Children’s City (the fifth-largest entertainment facility in the world) and Ice World. The park also features an amphitheatre, a mini falaj (traditional irrigation system), multiple play areas for children and even offers roller blades and two-seater bicycles for hire. juMeiraH beaCH park

al safa park

One of Dubai’s largest and oldest parks, the 64-hectare Safa Park has a waterfall, lake, theatre, barbecue areas, canopied seating areas and a Traffic Village complete with a miniature road system, cars and traffic signals, toy trains that tour the park and fun rides in ‘car horses’ and giant rotating

13 hectares of golden sands, azure waters, landscaped lawns and a desert garden form the Jumeirah Beach Park.

Amenities such as picnic facilities, multiple children’s play area, a games arcade, food kiosks, a swimming area with on-duty lifeguards and shower and bathing facilities make the park a great spot for family picnics.

Soak in the Sun | 59

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concrete-weary; these green gems are perfect for rejuvenation and recreation. Most of the parks have a ‘Ladies Day’ when entry is restricted only to women and children. Dubai also has parks situated along its beaches giving picnickers the pleasure of both cool green grass, as well as warm golden sands and crystal blue waters.

We list some of Dubai’s most popular urban getaways:

FUn FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Fun comes to life in a Dubai holiday.

With a myriad of entertainment centres, the young and even the young at heart will find fun and excitement at every turn in this multi-faceted city. aquaVenture

exploring dubai

With speed slides, river rapids, thrilling water rides, children’s play area and a private beach, the 42-acre Aquaventure is the largest waterpark in the Middle East. The Leap of Faith is one of Aquaventure’s most popular attractions.

From the top of The Ziggurat, the Leap of Faith catapults riders into a transparent tunnel and through a shark-filled lagoon, where guitar sharks, bow mouth sharks and white tip, black tip and grey reef sharks all reside.

Aquaventure is located in the Atlantis The Palm.

CHildren’s City

Located in the lush Creek Park, Children’s City is the first of its kind in the UAE. In an interactive and fun setting, children can learn about applied sciences, nature, space exploration, local and international culture and the human body. The ‘city’ also includes a Planetarium, Under Five’s Corner and a theatre presenting a variety of shows. dubai dolpHinariuM

Famous for its highly skilled and choreographed ‘Dolphins and Seals Live Show’, the Dubai Dolphinarium affords dolphin lovers a chance to interact and even swim with the bottlenose 60 | Fun for the whole family

dolphins in a habitat pool. The Dolphinarium also offers a variety of therapeutic activities for children with special needs. To create awareness about the marine environment and its conservation, children can attend various workshops and art sessions organised within the premises of the Dolphinarium. The Dolphinarium is located in Dubai Creek Park. enCounter Zone

This amusement centre at Wafi City boasts an indoor climbing wall, an inline skating and skateboarding park and Lunarland – the ideal play centre for children between the ages of one and eight. global Village

Winter sees the opening of the Global Village at Dubai Land.

Showcasing the music, dance, arts, handicrafts, theatre, heritage and cuisine of more than 25 countries of the world, Global Village is one of Dubai’s premiere cultural and entertainment destinations. Launched as a part of the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Global Village is host to an array of spectacular shows such as the Global Village Global Grooves Concert Series, the Skyhigh Sway Pole, Skycycle High Wire Show, Faceteam Slamdunk Basketball Show, the FMX Stunt Show and the Acapulco High Dive Show. With more than 140 eateries offering cuisine from around the world, Global Village is also a foodie’s dream come true.

exploring dubai Dolphinarium Fun for the whole family | 61

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ski Dubai 62 | Fun for the whole family

Kidzania is a unique entertainment centre that replicates a real city where children can work and live like grownups. Featuring a hospital, supermarket, bank, airport, public transport and renta-car, it offers a fantastic role-playing experience for children. With a choice of over 70 professions, they can wear real uniforms, go to work and even earn ‘kidzos’, the currency of Kidzania.

MagiC planet

Home to bowling alleys, mini pitch and putt, crawling jungle bungles, racing simulators, arcade games, 3D theatres and with childcare and dining options, the Magic Planet chain of entertainment centres is the largest in the region. Find Magic Planet at Deira City Centre, Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre. sega republiC

Located at the Dubai Mall, SEGA Republic is an indoor theme park that features a host of adrenaline pumping attractions. The first of its kind in the Middle East, SEGA Republic spans two levels and is divided into five themed zones: Wild Adventure Zone, Speed Zone, Cyberpop Zone, Redemption Zone and Sports Zone.

These zones offer a huge array of games that range from action packed motion-simulators and simulated sports games to classic carnival games and the largest selection of prize-winning redemption games. The theme park operates the same hours as The Dubai Mall, which is from 10am to 10pm

Sunday to Wednesday and 10am to midnight Thursday to Saturday. The entrance to SEGA Republic is located on the second floor of The Dubai Mall with parking conveniently located nearby. ski dubai

Ski Dubai, at Mall of the Emirates, is the Middle East’s first indoor ski park.

With a mountain-themed design guests can ski, snow board and toboggan all year around. Ski Dubai’s gentle slopes are perfect for beginners to practise their turns on while its advanced back runs challenge seasoned skiers and the Freestyle Zone beckons snowboarders.

At 3,000sqm, the Ski Dubai Snow Park is the largest in the world. Spend a fun-filled afternoon in its vast expanse building snowmen, or on bobsled rides or tubing, or just exploring the interactive snow cavern. Kempinski, the five-star hotel attached to Ski Dubai features five unique ‘Ski Chalets’ that offer splendid views over the ski park. wild wadi

Themed around the tales of the popular Arabian folklore character, Juha, Wild Wadi is the most popular water park in the Middle East. With 30 adrenalin pumping rides spread across 12 acres, the excitement never ends at the Wild Wadi. Experience the exhilaration of weightlessness on the Jumeirah Sceirah, a speed slide that can hurtle you at speeds of up to 80km per hour, with 33m breathtaking cascades; Breaker’s Bay is the largest wave pool in the Middle East; the gravity defying Rushdown Ravine; or Fun for the whole family | 63

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kidZania

of tiny, toothless Garra Ruffa fish are allowed to nibble away the dead skin leaving feet softer and smoother. wonderland

Wonderland is a theme and water park that offers more than 30 exciting rides and attractions. Located alongside the Dubai Creek Park, near Garhoud Bridge, it is one of the oldest theme parks in Dubai.

exploring dubai

unwind in the Lazy River or just chill out with the kids in Juha’s Lagoon with two slides, two children’s racer slides and a dumping bucket. Tantrum Alley with its two downhill waterslides and three tornadoes and the Burj Surj’s spiralling bowl are the latest additions to Wild Wadi’s line up of thrilling rides.

The FISHO spa at Wild Wadi offers guests a ‘fishy’ pedicure – hundreds

Wild Wadi 64 | Fun for the whole family

ACTIVITIES

 WHAT TO DO IN DUBAI  CALENDAR

Dubai offers an array of activities that draw out the best of its natural bounties and man-made facilities.

AQUATIC PURSUITS

Fishing: Seafood lovers can rejoice; Dubai’s fecund waters offer the perfect opportunity to hook your own fish and crustaceans. Sea-farers can hire a fully equipped deep-sea fishing boat to fish for kingfish, red snapper, rock cod, hammour, barracuda, sailfish and many other species of Gulf fish.

Jet-skiing: For some fast paced fun, beach goers can hop on a jet ski to skip across 66 | Activities

the waves while the wind, sea water and sun brush playfully against them. Most of the hotel’s along Dubai’s coast have water sports centres that offer jet skis for hire.

Skiers are advised to stay within the areas designated for jet-skiing for safety reasons.

Parasailing: A thrilling combination of wind and water, parascenders are towed behind a high-powered boat while attached to a parachute. As the boat slices through the water, the parascender

ascends into the air. Parasailing is fantastic way to enjoy the stunning aerial views of Dubai’s coastline. Parasailing rides are offered by select hotels along the coast.

Sailing: Dubai’s serene waters make it an enjoyable and safe destination for sailing. Several of the city’s hotels and sailing centres offer a wide variety of sailing equipment such as dinghies and keel boats, for hire. The spring and autumn months are the best time for sailing in Dubai.

Scuba diving: Minimal tidal flow, excellent visibility, a rich and colorful marine life, reefs, corals and even interesting wrecks – all these make Dubai a scuba-diver’s dream come true. In order to scuba dive in the UAE, divers must possess valid and recognized documents.

Snorkelling: Swim with dolphins, catch glimpses of turtles and enjoy breathtaking views of the reefs – snorkelling is the simplest way to get acquainted with Dubai’s colourful ocean life.

Speedboating: For a high-octane blast that comes with great coastal views, speedboating is an obvious choice. Fully insured and equipped vessels can be hired from a number of tour companies.

Wakeboarding: Water skiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques come together to create a thrilling surface water sport. Pulled by a motor boat, wake boarders can conquer the waves while performing several tricks in the

air – jumping, flipping and spinning, before settling down on their wakeboards.

Wind surfing: Oscillating between the laid-back culture of surfing and the stringent rules of sailing, wind surfers will enjoy manoeuvring on the emirate’s waters. Wind surfing lessons, boards in different sizes and sails are available on hire from several beachside hotels and resorts.

FUN IN THE DUNES

Desert adventures are synonymous with Dubai. Desert drives, hot air balloon rides, sand skiing, quad biking, camel rides, desert dinners and visits to the Hatta fortress – these are just some of the highlights of the desert safaris the city’s tour operators offer.

Barbecue dinners: Dine under the stars on a sumptuous spread of grilled meat, vegetables and mezze made of the freshest and finest ingredients. In a Bedouin-style camp, spicy kebabs are roasted over a traditional open spit fire, the air fills with mouth-watering aromas and belly dancers sway to Arabic notes.

Camel rides: One of the highlights of a desert excursion is a sunset ride on the ‘ship of the desert’, the noble camel. Tour operators can arrange tailor-made packages that allow visitors leisurely exploration of the windswept desert on camel back.

Ballooning: Ascend into the sky as the first rays of the sun cast their light on Activities | 67

the golden desert sands – the one hour sunrise balloon adventure with Balloon Adventures is sure to leave guests mesmerized by the breathtaking view of the desert landscape and the city beyond.

Dune buggy safari: Under the expertise of a desert guide, conquer awe-inspiring sand dunes. This roller-coaster ride over the dunes in a powerful desert buggy is sure to get the adrenaline pumping.

Several tour operators provide travel groups with training, safety equipment and a guide.

Falconry: An integral part of desert life in the olden days, today falconry is practised purely for sport. Some desert camps offer skilled falconry demonstrations for visitors; these displays help promote environmental awareness and encourage conservation efforts.

Burj Al Arab

ACTIVITIES

Sand skiing: Slicing through waves of sand with a snow board, sand skiing creates a novel sporting experience. Available with both, half and full day desert safaris, guests can request their tour operators to arrange this high-energy activity as a part of the desert safari.

Wadi driving: The most challenging activity of a desert adventure, wadi driving sees visitors navigate dry and rocky riverbeds in a 4x4 vehicle. It is highly recommended that an experienced driver be hired for this sport as the journey can be rough. This exhilarating and bumpy ride gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy the dramatic desert landscape en route.

68 | What to do in Dubai

With bespoke facilities, year-round sunshine and top notch infrastructure, Dubai hosts numerous international sporting events including the world’s richest horse race – The Dubai World Cup, Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai Tennis Championship, Dubai Rugby Sevens and the UIM Class 1 World Offshore Powerboat Championship to name a few.

These have earned Dubai its reputation as the ‘sporting capital’ of the Middle East.

Cycling: Mountain biking excursions are organized by a select few of the city’s tour operators and cycling associations.

Led by experienced guides, cyclists can engage in training rides, tours through the mountains and deserts of Dubai and even occasional races.

Golf: Boasting some of the finest golf courses in the world designed by legends such as Greg Norman, Sergio Garcia, Vijay Singh and Pete Dye, Dubai was named Golf Destination of the Year in Africa, the Indian Ocean and Gulf States by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators in 2009.

The Emirates Golf Club, the venue of the Dubai Desert Classic, is one of the Middle East’s top golfing venues.

The Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Golf Estates, The Address Montgomerie Dubai and Al Badia Golf Club are among the leading clubs in Dubai today. The courses are a challenge to amateurs and professionals alike and even offer teaching and practice facilities.

Shooting and archery: A 35-minute drive from the city centre, the Jebel Ali International Shooting Club brings the exciting sport of recreational and competitive shooting within easy reach.

Its indoor and outdoor shooting facilities are built to rigorous international safety standards. The outdoor floodlit clayshooting ranges cater for all seven clayshooting disciplines including Olympic skeet and trapshooting. Trapshooting requires contestants to fire their 12-guage shotguns at moving targets from a series of five positions, called ‘stations’, located 15m behind the trap. In skeet shooting, clay targets are released alternately or simultaneously from two traps, along fixed intersecting paths. This form offers a greater number of shooting angles.

The indoor facility comprise a pistol and archery range.

What to do in Dubai | 69

ACTIVITIES

SPORTS

ACTIVITIES

Tennis: Year-long clear skies and unwavering sun rays have made tennis a popular favourite on the Emirate’s sporting scene especially during the cool winter months. Stars of the tennis world head to Dubai’s shores for The Dubai Tennis Championships – a prominent tournament organized by Dubai Duty Free.

70 | What to do in Dubai

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Indoor leisure pursuits abound in Dubai with options ranging from ice skating to indoor skiing. When in Dubai, guests should try some of these: Bowling: The state-of-the-art Dubai International Bowling Centre (DIBC) operates 36 synthetic Brunswick lanes that are on par with international

standards. Since its opening in 2001, DIBC has been extremely popular with bowling enthusiasts not only from the UAE, but also other Gulf countries. Thunder Bowl, Al Nasr Leisureland and Magic Planet at Mall of the Emirates offer bowling fun too. The latter offers not only Cosmic 10-pin bowling, but also fun rides and pool and billiards tables.

ACTIVITIES

Ice skating: The Dubai Mall, Al Nasr Leisureland and Hyatt Regency Galleria offer visitors the opportunity to perfect their twirls or simply learn the basics of ice skating at their rinks.

Instructors and skating gear are available at all three.

Indoor skiing: The region’s only indoor skiing facility, Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates, offers skiers and snowboarders the chance to test their skills on five runs of varying difficulty.

The longest run is 400m with a fall of over 60m. The Freestyle Zone is ideal for practising stunts while the huge interactive Snow Park presents fun-filled snow moments for both children and grown-ups.

Jogging: All of Dubai’s lush green parks and pristine beaches are equipped with jogging tracks. During the summer, early mornings and evenings are the best time to get fit.

SPECTATOR SPORTS

Camel racing: 15 race tracks dotted across the country are the venue for 72 | What to do in Dubai

this traditional sport. Held mostly during the winter, the most popular is the race at the Nad Al Sheba track. During the racing season, the tracks take on a carnival atmosphere with vendors selling camel blankets, rugs and beads.

Horse riding: An important local tradition and an integral part of the culture, horse riding is available at several riding centres - the Emirates Equestrian Centre (EEC), the Jebel Ali Equestrian Club, Mushriff Equestrian Club and Club Joumana, the riding stables at Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa. The EEC is the most notable facility as it is a fully approved British Horse Society riding and training centre with skilled staff.

Horse racing: Held at the spectacular Meydan Racecourse, the Dubai World Cup is the richest horse race in the world. Comprising seven exciting races, this event draws more than 50,000 racegoers to the city annually.

Motor racing and go-karting: With a challenging combination of highspeed straights and technical corners, the 5.39km track at the Dubai Autodrome is one of the most modern and challenging in the world. The six configuration circuit is designed to allow three circuits to operate simultaneously, safely and independently from each other presenting circuit users with unparalleled options.

ACTIVITIES What to do in Dubai | 73

CALENDAR

The Emirates sporting calendar is a highly busy one with global events from golf and tennis to rugby and horse racing being held throughout the year. Thousand of industry leaders and business decision leaders also throng Dubai for the numerous international trade fairs and exhibitions held in the city.

SPORTING EVENTS 2012/13

Dubai Grand Prix 2011 December 2011, Mina Seyahi Dubai After racing through Europe and the Middle East, the final round of the annual Class One World Powerboat Championship – the Dubai Grand Prix – roars into Dubai in December.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon January 2012 A fast way to cover Dubai’s most famous landmarks is the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon. Commencing at The American University Dubai and ending at Dubai Media City, the marathon follows a clockwise route passing many of the city’s attractions.

ACTIVITIES

Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens 2012 December 2012, The Sevens One of the most unique and loved sporting events in the world, the Dubai Sevens features the best Sevens nations and kick-starts the beginning of the IRB Seven World Series.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Omega Dubai Ladies Masters 2011 2 - 8 December 2012, Emirates Golf Club The biggest tour names will compete in the UAE for the seventh time for the highly coveted Dubai Ladies Masters Trophy. The prestigious event has a prize fund of €500,000 (over US$700,000), and is a permanent feature of the UAE golfing calendar.

Calendar | 75

Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2012 February 2012, Emirates Golf Club Rated among the top 10 biggest golf tournaments in the world, this $2.5 million event is played over the finest championship course in the region.

Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2012 February 2012, Dubai Tennis Stadium Bringing Dubai into the living rooms of

the world, the star-studded Barclays Dubai Tennis Championship – the signature sports event of Dubai Duty Free – is one of the most prestigious ATP and WTA tournaments.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 2012 Dubai World Cup March 2012, Meydan Racecourse Held at the iconic Meydan Racecourse, the Dubai World Cup is the star of the horse racing world. It has been instrumental in bring world-class thoroughbred racing and breeding back to the Arabian Peninsula, the home of the thoroughbred’s renowned ancestor – the Arabian. Worth $10million, the Dubai World Cup is classified as a ‘Group One Flat Race’ for four-year-old thoroughbreds and above.

ACTIVITIES

EXHIBITIONS AND TRADE FAIRS 2012/2013

Arabian Travel Market 2012 2 - 5 May, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Reed Travel Exhibitions This is the leading industry event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The Hotel Show 2012 17 - 19 May, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dmg World Media Dubai Ltd. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dubai International Boat Show March 2012, Dubai International Marine Club – Mina Seyahi, Dubai World Trade Centre Showcasing boats from both local and international builders and the latest innovations in marine equipment, 76 | Calendar

supplies and services, this is the largest and most established event of its kind in the region.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Offshore Arabia 2012 March 2012, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, INDEX® Conferences & Exhibitions Organization Est –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Airport Show 2012 31 May - 2 June,Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Reed Exhibitions Middle East –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Cityscape Global Exhibition & Conference 2012 27 - 29 September, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, IIR Middle East

Gitex Technology Week 2012 9 - 13 October, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai World Trade Centre LLC. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Index Exhibition 2012 20 - 24 October, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dmg World Media Dubai Ltd.

The Big 5 Show 2012 21 - 24 November, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dmg World Media Dubai Ltd.

ARTS AND CULTURAL EVENTS

Emirates Airline International Festival of Literature March 2012, InterContinental Hotel – Dubai Festival City Bringing together a diverse and balanced line-up of authors, this is the Middle East’s largest literary festival.

ACTIVITIES

Dubai International Film Festival December, Madinat Jumeirah The Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) is a premier event for Middle Eastern, African and new Asian cinema as well as a major international festival.

Serving as an influential platform for Arab film makers and talent, it also spearheads the cinema movement in the region.

Please note that every effort has been made to keep the events information up to date. However, for confirmation of events dates and details, please contact the events organizers directly or email One Stop Information Centre (info@dubaitourism.ae).

Calendar | 77

retail experience

 shopping malls  souks  shopping neighbourhoods  dubai duty free  shopping festivals  gifts and souvenirs

 shopping malls  shopping  neighbourhoods  souks  dubai duty free  shopping festivals  gifts and souvenirs

78 | Shopping Malls

SHOPPING MallS Dubai’s shopping malls are synonymous with shopping adventures and have evolved to become the lifeblood of the city. Offering unparalleled retail experiences, these lifestyle destinations offer shoppers the opportunity to meet friends, sip a cuppa, watch a movie, play games and also fine dine.

Most malls are open until 10pm, and many extend their shopping hours to midnight at weekends. Several shops hold special sales at various times of the year, but the main events are: the Dubai Shopping Festival, usually held in January and February; Dubai Summer Surprises, which is held between June and August; and Eid in Dubai, which is held after the holy month of Ramadan.

Here’s a list of Dubai’s leading shopping centres:

burJuMan

Aliased as ‘the residence of high fashion’, Burjuman showcases over 300 leading high-end and high street fashion brands such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, Hermès, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Fendi, Emanuel Ungaro, Tod’s, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Tiffany, Just Cavalli, and many more. Catering to elite and discerning clientele, the mall has one of the finest collections of high fashion luxury brands in Dubai. A range of dining choices, sophisticated interiors with atrium courtyards, abundant seating interspersed with green areas add up to a chic shopping experience. www.burjuman.com Deira city centre

al Ghurair city

One of the oldest malls of the city, Al Ghurair provides the ideal high street experience with a combination of Arabic-inspired landscapes, exciting streetscapes, the best in food and entertainment and today’s most popular brands. Over 200 retail shops that include brands such as Guess, Esprit, Baby Phat Farm and Mexx plus a rich variety of cuisines guarantee a memorable experience for every shopper. Located on Rigga Road in the heart of Deira, Al Ghurair is a short taxi ride away from Dubai Museum and the Gold Souk. www.alghuraircity.com

The pioneer of the shopping mall culture, Deira City Centre virtually redefined the concept of malls for the region, raising its status from a shopping precinct to a lifestyle destination. The mall sprawls across 1.2 million square feet of retail space with in excess of 300 outlets. Its tenants include Carrefour, Debenhams, Woolworths, Virgin Megastore, Bowling City, an 11-screen multiplex, the hugely popular Magic Planet, the Sofitel City Centre Hotel and Residence, and an office tower too. The Metro’s Red Line provides direct access to the mall. www.deiracitycentre.com Shopping Malls | 79

DraGonMart

Named after the creature whose form it mimics, DragonMart is the largest trading centre for Chinese products outside mainland China. Winding 1.2kms along the Dubai–Hatta highway, the mart has around 4000 outlets that retail home and office appliances, school supplies, communication and acoustic equipment, lamps, building materials, furniture, toys, machinery, garments and footwear, to name a few. www.dragonmart.ae

promenade. The action-inclined can spend the evening gliding across the icy expanse of the Olympicsized Dubai Ice Rink or indulge in adrenaline-pumping rides at the SEGA Republic, while movie buffs can enjoy the 22-screen Reel Cinema. Another groundbreaking initiative for Dubai Mall is the award-winning KidZania, a children’s educational theme park. www.thedubaimall.com Dubai Marina Mall

Chic and stylish, Marina Mall showcases more than 150 outlets Standing adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, that offer an eclectic mix of high street covering 12 million square feet, the and aspirational fashion, such as Kurt Dubai Mall is the largest in the world.

Geiger and Naf Naf, waterfront dining, Home to more than a thousand retail cinema and a kids' entertainment area. outlets, be it designer labels such Armani, www.dubaimarinamall.com Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Galleries Lafayette and Bloomingdales or high street Dubai outlet Mall favourites such as Topshop, New Look The only 'outlet' concept mall in the and Forever 21, Dubai Mall provides a region, Outlet Mall is home to over phenomenal shopping experience. Book 800 of the world’s top fashion brands.

World by Kinokunya is one of the largest Shopping here is great value for money shops of its kind in the Middle East. as the mall’s 240 stores offer year Promising to be the ultimate long discounts of up to 90 per cent on leisure destination for everyone with merchandise. everything, Dubai Mall has a series www.dubaioutletmall.com of breathtaking attractions. The centrepiece of the mall is the Dubai festival centre Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which A vibrant retail hub perched on the has more than 33,000 living animals Garhoud bank of Deira Creek, Festival including 400 sharks and rays. Walk Centre features more than 600 shops, through its 270-degree acrylic tunnel for which include 25 international flagship a closer look, or simply peer in from its stores, above 100 restaurants, cafés viewing panel, the largest in the world. and bistros, a 12-screen Grand Festival Watch an entrancing performance of Cinema complex and the picturesque light, water and music that is the Dubai waterfront Marina Pavilion, which offers Fountain from the mall’s waterfront multi-cuisine fine dining options. Directly Shopping Malls | 81

retail experience

Dubai Mall

connected to the InterContinental and Crowne Plaza hotels, the shopping complex is an excellent mix of regional and international retailers such as IKEA, HyperPanda, Marks & Spencers, Toys R Us, ACE, Plug-ins Elecronix, Paris Gallery, Zara and many more. www.dubaifestivalcity.com

retail experience

ibn battuta Mall

Renowned for its design sensibilities, the unique architecture of the mall celebrates the travels of the famous Arab explorer, Ibn Battuta. The mall has six courts reflecting the architecture of each region Ibn Battuta explored – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China.

A unique ‘retail zoning’ concept makes shopping at Ibn Battuta hassle free. It is divided into four sections: family & convenience, major department stores, up-market brands & lifestyles, and entertainment & leisure. The mall has 275 retailers, 50 restaurants and food outlets, and 21 state-of-the-art cinema screens, including the UAE’s first IMAX. Ibn Battuta can be accessed via Dubai Metro’s Red Line. www.ibnbattutamall.com laMcy plaza

One of the city’s most popular malls, Lamcy presents an exciting mix of local, regional and international retail brands.

Inventors of the concept of open displays in Dubai, the mall counts Giordano, Damas Jewellery, Delsey Luggage, Rivoli Watches, Shoe Mart and Paris Gallery among its tenants. Lamcy’s ‘FunCity’ is a unique play and discovery centre for children. For a nominal fee, kids can 82 | Shopping Malls

be left under the careful supervision of the Fun City staff while parents scout through the mall’s 150 stores. www.lamcyplaza.com Mall of the eMirates

A spectacular shopping and lifestyle destination with around 500 international retail outlets that offer fashion, lifestyle, sports, consumer electronics and home furnishings, including 60 flagship stores.

The largest Carrefour in the UAE, a 14-screen cinema, Ski Dubai, the five-star Kempinski Hotel, the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre (a 500-seat community theatre and accompanying arts centre) and Magic Planet are all housed within the mall.

The 223,000-square-metre mall has a super-stylish Fashion Dome featuring

Deira City Centre

retailing a variety of products from fashion to furnishings, cafés, cinemas, a supermarket and even spas and salons are housed in the mall. Armani, Massimo Dutti, Laura Ashley and many other global brands can be found here. www.mercatoshoppingmall.com reef Mall

Mercato Mall

A budget-friendly mall located in the heart of Deira, Reef is also the ideal neighbourhood mall. It has a plethora of shops that cover everything from home furnishings to budget-friendly fashion brands, Home Centre, Splash, Bossini, G2000, Nine West, Aldo Accessories and many more high quality brands. www.reefmall.com

flagship stores such as Louis Vuitton, Paul Smith and Diane von Furstenberg.

Dining options are varied with 85 eateries that range from fast food to fine dining and cafés to confectionary.

The Metro’s Red Line gives direct access to the mall. www.malloftheemirates.com Mercato Mall

Bringing together the choicest lifestyle offerings from the Mediterranean, Mercato is the first themed mall in the UAE. Its architecture is centred on a distinct Renaissance concept which captures Italian, French and Spanish elements and artistic characteristics; the mall also regularly hosts fairs and festivals from each country.

One hundred and twenty-six outlets

Set within interiors inspired by ancient Egypt, Wafi’s 350 stores offer some of the most prestigious shopping brands in the world, from the classy Escada and Chanel to new waves such as Tiger Lily and Desert Rose. The mall has an unrivalled collection of art, food, fashion, entertainment and lifestyle choices.

The Khan Murjan souk recreates the splendours of the 14th century, while the mall’s 20 fine-dining restaurants are fit for gourmets. Action seekers can head to mall’s Encounter Zone which features virtual rides, games and even an indoor climbing wall – the highest in the UAE. Shoppers can take a break to rejuvenate at the Cleopatra Spa or the Medi Spa or spend a relaxing evening at Wafi’s rooftop gardens in the company of live entertainers. www.wafi.com Shopping Malls | 83

retail experience

Wafi city

retail experience

SOUKS Dubai’s exotic souks are evocative of the Arabia of yore. Set within traditional interiors and stocked with mounds of juicy dates, aromatic spices, traditional fragrances and many other traditional Arabic handicrafts, the souks offer travellers the chance to find the perfect souvenir: prayer beads, soapstone figures, trinket boxes, marble goblets, brass objects, Omani silver jewellery, Persian carpets, dhurries and even bellydancing regalia are here.

84 | Souks

The Deira Gold Souk offers stunning jewellery crafted in 18, 22 and 24 karat gold and embellished with pearls and precious stones.

The city’s carpet souk rolls out rugs from Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan, and prices can range from a few hundred dirhams to several thousands. Dubai’s ‘computer street’ boasts the latest laptops, mobile phones and various other computer accessories.

SHOPPING NEIGHBOURHOODS

retail experience

shoppinG tips

If grand malls with high-end designer merchandise are not your cup of tea, Dubai offers a fascinating playground for bargain hunters too. Haggle with the vendors of Karama Complex for replicas of designer purses and watches, or buy pashminas, shisha pipes, Arabic musical instruments and other trinkets at budget-friendly prices.

At weekends, mounds of fresh seafood spill into the Karama Fish Market. Succulent jumbo prawns, whole squid, crabs, salmon fillets, mountains of shellfish, hammour and red snapper are sold by the kilo to ardent seafood lovers. Sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh cantaloupes, juicy oranges and the best of the season’s produce can also be found here.

If custom-made clothing puts you in your element, then don’t miss the tailors in Satwa. They can replicate any style off a magazine page at extremely reasonable prices. Buy your fabrics from the rows of shops on Diyafah Street and end the day at any of the al fresco cafés or restaurants that offer global cuisines.

Meena Bazaar in Bur Dubai is reminiscent of an upscale Indian market. Bolts of fabrics in every colour imaginable, racks of ready-made clothing, rows of shops selling jewellery containing gold and diamonds, and even imitation jewellery, are crowded cheek by jowl.

86 | Shopping Neighbourhoods

• Regular shopping hours are from 10am to 9pm from Sunday to Thursday. On Fridays, the smaller shops are usually open for business from 4pm to 10pm.

• Although credit cards are widely accepted in Dubai’s shopping centres and major independent retailers, cash is still the currency of choice for souk merchants, small shops and familyowned restaurants.

• First-time visitors to Dubai’s fabric shops might find the quantity of products on display overwhelming. When in doubt, ask the store staff what’s new in the shop or ask them for the specific material that you are looking for. Tell them your price range and let them recommend fabrics that meet your requirements and budget.

• For the perfect fit, you might want to have your garments sewn by one of the city’s tailoring shops. Most of these shops are located in the textile bazaars of Bur Dubai and Satwa. They also do alterations for a reasonable sum.

• If you have the time and the patience, check out the prices at fixed-price outlets before testing your bargaining skills in Dubai’s souks. Haggle with a smile.

• Please note that some consumer electronics retailers, particularly smaller businesses, provide no warranty or guarantee for some of their merchandise.

• Those looking for great bargains should time their visits to coincide with Dubai’s major shopping festivals.

Dubai Duty Free

The multi-award-winning Dubai Duty Free is the biggest single airport retail operation in the world. Its extensive product offering, goldstandard customer service and unique marketing campaigns have been travellers’ delights for years.

Occupying 15,000square metres of retail space, it offers endless options for gifts and souvenirs that range from high-end timepieces and gold jewellery to the latest electronic gadgets and premium chocolates.

Dubai Duty Free’s ‘Finest Surprise Luxury Car Draw’ and ‘Millennium

Millionaire’ promotion are among the most enduring and exciting campaigns that have been launched by a travel retailer anywhere in the world. Tickets to these promotions are sold at Dubai Duty Free counters. www.dubaidutyfree.com DiD you knoW? On 21 December 2011, Dubai Duty Free’s 28th anniversary day, the operation recorded sales of US$24 million in the 24-hour period, which was 30per cent higher than 27th anniversary sales figure.

Dubai Duty Free | 87

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DUBaI DUty FREE

SHOPPING FEStIvalS Dubai shoppinG festival

retail experience

The most important event in Dubai’s shopping calendar, the Dubai Shopping festival was initiated in 1996. Since then it has evolved into a monthlong dynamic shopping and cultural extravaganza. The city dons a bridal look as streets are festooned with decorative lights, carnivals and parades are held in almost every shopping mall, and the night sky lights up with stunning firework displays. Over 2300 participating retail outlets offer steep discounts on gold, perfumes, haute couture, cars, electronics, handicrafts and textiles. Usually held during the months of January and February, the Global Village which showcases the cultures of the world through its multiple pavilions is also set up during this time.

Dubai suMMer surprises (Dss)

With a focus on fun, knowledge, amusement and, of course, shopping, DSS is held from June to August.

Coinciding with the city’s annual school summer vacation, DSS offers edutainment opportunities for the whole family. The most popular event of the DSS is the opening of Modhesh World at the Airport Expo.

Spread across 37,000 square metres, Modhesh World is divided into three zones. Each zone offers a variety of educational activities, competitions, rides, stage shows, hospitality tents and a multi-cuisine food court. One of the festival’s signature events is the 88 | Shopping Festivals

Arts Oasis which was initiated as a platform for artists who want to reach a wider audience. Various fun activities and huge shopping discounts are also offered in the city’s shopping malls.

OvER 2300 PaRtIcIPatING REtaIl OUtlEtS OFFER StEEP DIScOUNtS ON GOlD, PERFUMES, HaUtE cOUtURE, caRS, ElEctRONIcS, HaNDIcRaFtS aND tExtIlES. eiD in Dubai

A social initiative aimed at reviving the Islamic value and traditions, the Eid in Dubai festival is inspired by the emirate’s unique cultural and social mosaic. Held during the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha celebrations, the event showcases live performances, carnivals, fireworks displays and amazing shopping discounts across the city. The highlight of the festival is the funfair organised at the Airport Expo featuring rides, skill games, redemption games, a soft play area, an inflatables zone and a PlayStation zone. The 2011 festival also saw the introduction of Shoppiesta – a five-day consumer lifestyle exhibition.

retail experience Shopping Festivals | 89

GIFtS aND SOUvENIRS Take a piece of Dubai home with you with these Arabic-style souvenirs:

retail experience

Dates anD GourMet chocolates

An Arabic meal is incomplete without one Middle Eastern staple, dates.

Savoured for their luscious texture and flavour and bursting with sweetness, these prized treats are available across the city’s supermarkets and shopping centres in a wide range of varieties from plain and pitted to stuffed and dipped in chocolate.

With more than 20 varieties of gourmet dates which are sold fresh, filled, semi-ripe and individually wrapped, Bateel has earned a reputation for perfecting the art of date confectionary. The company is famous for its date chocolate truffles (the fruit is filled with nuts or fruits and coated with chocolate), praline and truffles, biscuits and cookies, and sugar-free chocolates.

The Emirates Date Factory produces date syrup, jam and even paste. The company has an extensive product range that also includes stuffed and coated dates.

Boxes of Arabian Delights – Chocodates, dates filled with roasted almonds and coated with chocolate – or premium Patchi chocolates wrapped in gold and silver foils are gifts that will be truly appreciated.

The world’s first camel milk chocolate is also found in Dubai. Moulded into the shape of a camel and wrapped in gold paper, it is a great gift idea. Al 90 | Gifts and Souvenirs

Nassma chocolate produces camel milk chocolate in five exotic varieties – Arabia (flavoured with spices), date, macadamia nut and orange, 70 per cent cocoa, and whole milk. Its pralines filled with pistachios, nougat and coffee cream are simply superb.

GolD anD pearls

Known as the ‘City of Gold’, Dubai has a stunning range of gold jewellery in an array of designs and styles. The Gold Souk in Deira is the largest of its kind, with shops flaunting dazzling displays of elaborate Indian ornaments, delicate Italian finery, lustrous pearl strings and diamond-encrusted regalia. With more than 90 jewellery retailers and 118 manufacturing blocks, the Gold and Diamond Park on Sheikh Zayed Road is a connoisseur’s delight. Discerning customers can request retailers to produce tailor-made pieces that use the finest materials. The Gold Souk at Dubai Mall is renowned for its pearls.

Strung into necklaces and bracelets and set into rings, earrings and pendants, some even embellished with diamonds, rubies and emeralds, pearls can be found in the souk in many unique designs and in different colours. scents

Arabian ouds and itrs (perfumes and essential oils) make great souvenirs and gifts. The Middle East’s top perfumers such as Arabian Oud, Ajmal, Eternal and Amouage sell traditional fragrances as well as modern blends. All these companies

fabrics anD pashMina shaWls

The textile trade flourishes in Dubai and visitors can buy silks, chiffons, organza, velvets, cottons, voiles and pashminas. The Meena Bazaar in Bur Dubai and the fabric stores in Satwa are absolute sartorial delights. carpets

Dubai has a fabulous carpet souk that stocks beautiful pieces from Iran, India, Kashmir, Pakistan and Afghanistan. In fact, the emirate is one of the best places to buy Persian carpets outside of Iran. Based on the number of knots, size, type of dye used and the weavers of the product itself, the value of a carpet can range from a few hundred dirhams to many thousands.

popular souvenirs

Framed khanjars (traditional daggers), dallahs (Arabian coffee pots), Bedouin silver jewellery, trinket boxes, miniature dhows (traditional boats) and, of course, the ‘seven sands of the UAE’ – a glass frame or bottle containing the seven sands of the different emirates, Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa shaped paperweights, and camel key chains and fridge magnets are popular souvenirs. Many of Dubai’s handicraft stores like Al Jaber Gallery sell these at affordable prices.

DiD you knoW? Dubai made the world’s longest gold chain during the Dubai Summer Festival in 1999. Made in 22-carat gold, the chain was 4.2km long.

Gifts and Souvenirs | 91

retail experience

have a presence in most of Dubai’s malls and even at Dubai Duty Free.

going out  Find Your WaY around  Touring dubai  inbound Tour operaTors in dubai  eaTing ouT  resTauranTs  48 Hours

92 | Going Out

Going Out | 93

FIND YOUR WAY AROUND

going out

Dubai has a number of well-planned, extensive, convenient and economical public transport options. Setting traveller comfort as their top priority, the emirate’s 85 metro trains, 47 metro stations and more than 500 buses and taxis strive to make mobility in the city absolutely hassle free.

Taxi: With more than 7,000(government-regulated) taxis operating in the city, a cab is the most common mode of public conveyance. The minimum charge for travel within Dubai is Dhs10. For transfers from Dubai Airport to any location within Dubai, fares start at Dhs20. An additional Dhs20 is charged for passengers heading towards the northern emirates of Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain and Ajman.

Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC) provides a convenient 24-hour direct booking service for taxis. Contact DTC on +971 4 208 0808 or log on to dtc. dubai.ae for further information.

Ladies taxi: An initiative by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), ladies taxis with women drivers were introduced for the convenience of female passengers. These taxis, with their distinct pink coloured roof, seats and interiors, are the perfect solution for lone female travellers. In many Arab countries, women prefer not to be alone with an unfamiliar male.

Hence these taxis are hugely popular here.

Bus services: Comprising 734 peak bus schedules that are run on 79 bus routes, the Roads and Transport Authority runs an intensive public bus transport system in Dubai. Ensuring 94 | Find your way around

the highest standards of passenger comfort, the RTA operates a topof-the-range bus fleet with a host of amenities: a state-of-the-art air conditioning system that eliminates unpleasant odours; an electronic destination and route display system and computerized fare equipment.

The buses are also designed with the comfort of passengers with special needs in mind. Low floors, a reserved seating area and a dedicated entrance are provided to accommodate their requirements. The buses also have designated seats for women, children and elderly passengers.

In compliance with all international safety and security standards, they are fitted with emergency exits, alarm systems, fire extinguishers, first aid kits and a unique ‘Electronic Stability Program’ that gives drivers better vehicle control, higher stability on roads and greatly minimizes the risk of skidding.

The main bus stations in the city are Al Ghubaiba, Al Satwa, Al Qusais, Hor Al Anz, Al Rashidiya, Jebel Ali and Al Sabkha. Several bus stops around the city have been converted into air conditioned bus shelters and are also fitted with maps that display bus routes. Buses generally operate from

around 5am until just after midnight during weekdays. Regular public transport users are advised to buy prepaid or NoL cards.

Airport buses: The RTA provides multiple public transport options to all three airport terminals. The airport shuttles provide inter-terminal transfers while city buses operate routes that ply each terminal. Custombuilt with ample baggage holds, the air-conditioned buses serve the most popular areas in the city. These buses stop at locations that are within easy reach of over 80 hotels and furnished apartments. Metered taxis are also available 24 hours a day outside Terminals 1, 2 and 3.

Metro: Inaugurated in 2009, the Dubai Metro is the longest, driverless, fully automated metro network in the world.

Dubai Metro operates two commuter lines, known as the Red and Green lines that cover the length and breadth of the city. The 52km Red Line runs from

Rashidiya to Jebel Ali while the 23.9km Green Line covers areas between Al Qusais and Al Jadaf; both lines substantially contribute towards easing the emirate’s traffic congestion.

The Metro offers commuters enhanced comfort in its Gold or VIP sections and even provides a separate carriage for women and children.

Three parking facilities in Rashidiya (2,700 spaces) and Nakheel Harbour & Tower (3,000 spaces) on the Red Line and Etisalat (3,000 spaces) on the Green Line have been built by the RTA as a part of the metro’s parkand-ride programme. Parking here is free for Dubai Metro users. The RTA also operates metro station feeder buses in an effort to make travel easier for commuters. The Metro’s normal operating hours are from 6am to 11pm from Saturday to Thursday, and from 2pm to midnight on Fridays.

Monorail: Running along the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah, the Monorail is Find your way around | 95

going out

Dubai Metro

Dubai, Deira Old Souk, Al Seef, Creek Park, and back to Al Shindagha Station.

Tickets, priced at Dhs50 for adults and Dhs25 for children up to 6 years, are available at marine stations at Dubai Creek and include a map showing Dubai Creek landmarks. Tickets are valid for one full day from 9am to midnight. For enquiries, call +971 4 396 3135.

Water taxis: If you want a fresh perspective to Dubai’s skyline, then take a water taxi. Akin to an aircraft’s business lounge, these sleek catamarans are luxurious, fully airconditioned vessels that are kitted out with business class seats – each with an LCD screen that runs interactive displays on Dubai’s landmarks.

Catering mostly for tourists, water taxis are available at stations in Shindagha, Bur Dubai, Dubai Old Souk, Deira Old Souk, Al Sabkha, Bani Yas, Al Seef, Floating Bridge: Upstream and Downstream, Boardwalk Golf Club, Park Hyatt Golf Club, Al Boom Tourist Village, Island Global Yachting Festival City, Mamzar Lagoon, Jumeirah Open Beach, East Marina and Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa. The minimum fare is Dhs50 for one stop while the whole trip from Shindagha to Jebel Ali costs Dhs570.

Car hire: A range of local and internationally renowned companies offer cars for hire. To rent a car, customers must provide their passport together with a valid international driving licence. Visitors who do not have an international driving licence can obtain a temporary UAE licence if they have Find your way around | 97

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a unique way to soak up the scenic views of the Palm and the crystal waters of the Arabian Gulf. The first of its kind in the Middle East, the state-ofthe-art, fully automatic and driverless monorail connects the Gateway Station at the entry of the Palm (on Al Sufouh Road, Jumeirah) to the Atlantis Hotel on the Palm Jumeirah Crescent; giving access to all the other Crescent hotels as well. Carrying up to 2,400 passengers per hour per direction in four separate trains; the three-car trains run on rubber tyres making the journey practically noiseless. Built to modern standards, the stations are climate controlled and provide for disabled access too. The trains are available at 23-minute intervals in both directions.

Water bus: The water bus is a great way to take in the sights and sounds between Dubai and Deira. Beginning at Al Shindagha Station, visitors can enjoy a 45-minute trip along the Dubai Creek to Al Seef Station.

In addition to the tourism service, water buses also cater for the city’s commuting needs, serving five routes along the Creek. The journey is not only panoramic but also comfortable, the modern boats are air conditioned with spacious seating and provide good wheel chair access.

Kiosks selling snacks, magazines, newspapers and pre-paid telephone cards are available at all the water bus stations. The water bus also offers a ‘sightseeing tour’ along the Dubai creek. The Tourist Water Bus Line (B5) shuttles between Al Shindagha, Bur

A Host of Amenities in a Stylish Hotel

Indian Cuisine

Lebanese Cuisine

Thai Cuisine

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a valid local licence from one of the and Blue – can be used on the Metro, following countries: Australia, Austria, buses, water buses and paid parking Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, the Czech zones. The Red Nol ticket can be used Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, only on one mode of transport at a Germany, Greece, Holland, Iceland, time. It is rechargeable for use up to a Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, maximum of 10 journeys.

Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, The Nol cards can be purchased and Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, recharged at Dubai Metro station ticket Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the booths and ticket vending machines, UK and the US. Dubai bus stations, RTA customer Applicants are required to submit their service centres and RTA-authorized passport, valid national licence and two sales agents. For more information, log photographs. Canadian nationals must on to www.rta.ae obtain an affidavit from the Canadian Wojhati: Launched in 2009, the Consulate in Dubai, verifying the licence Wojhati (www.wojhati.rta.ae) is before going to the Traffic Department. the RTA’s innovative web portal that There is a helps commuters Dhs4 fee when Nol card is convenient plan their travel crossing Salik within the city. for commuters who use tollgates, for more any combination of Dubai The online system information go to helps passengers Metro, public buses and www.salik.ae. water buses. This pre-paid to determine Nol Card: Based the shortest and fare system can also be on the ‘pay as quickest route to used in all RTA operated you go’ concept, their destination as parking zones. the Nol card is well as the cost of convenient for commuters who use the trip. Covering buses, water buses any combination of the Dubai Metro, and the Dubai Metro, the integrated public buses and water buses to travel system provides real-time information to work. This pre-paid fare system along with interactive maps and route can also be used in all RTA operated plans to bus stops and Metro stations.

It also details how much time would be parking zones.

The Nol value card is sold for Dhs20, needed for a commuter to walk to the Dhs6 of which covers the card’s one-off nearest bus stop or station.

Wojhati is complemented by the purchase while the remaining balance Instant Passenger Information System, is its pre-paid value. The rechargeable which enables commuters to check card can hold up to Dhs500 in value. bus schedules, and the Automatic The pre-paid sum remains valid for Vehicle Management, which provides five years. passengers real-time information on Except for the Red Nol ticket, the bus arrivals. three other e-purses – Gold, Silver

TOURING DUBAI Dubai is a multi-faceted metropolis and so are the ways to explore it.

Whether visitors choose the open rooftop of the Big Bus; the sleek cabins of the Dubai Metro; board a luxury yacht, dhow or water taxi; rent a super stretch limo for a leisurely drive or take guided walks in the city’s heritage areas – the emirate’s skilled and experienced tour operators can build a customized sightseeing plan based on visitors’ interests, itineraries and budgets.

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SIGHTSEEING BY RAIL

Dubai has made significant strides as far as accessible tourism is concerned.

In September 2009, the emirate launched the first phase of the world’s longest driverless automated railway system, the Dhs28 billion Dubai Metro, with the opening of the Red Line, which runs from Rashidiya to Jebel Ali in parallel with Sheikh Zayed Road for much of the route. Thanks to the city’s train services, making your way around Dubai has become a breeze.

The 29-station Red Line serves destinations such as the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai International Financial Centre, Zabeel Park, BurJuman Mall, Al Ghurair Shopping Centre, Al Rigga and Deira City Centre.

To board the Metro, passengers must purchase the Nol card which is convenient for commuters using 100 | Touring Dubai

any combination of modes of public transport (Dubai Metro, public buses and water buses). The pre-paid fare system can also be used in all RTAoperated parking zones.

Using ‘pay-as-you-go’ technology, the stored value card is sold for Dhs20, Dhs6 of which covers the card’s one-off purchase while the remaining balance is its pre-paid value.

The rechargeable card can hold up to Dhs500 in value. The pre-paid sum remains valid for five years.

Except for the Red Nol ticket, the three other e-purses – Gold, Silver and Blue – can be used on the Metro, buses, water buses and paid parking zones. The Red Nol ticket can only be used on one mode of transport at a time and is rechargeable for use up to a maximum of 10 journeys.

The Nol cards can be purchased and recharged at Dubai Metro station

ticket booths and ticket vending machines, Dubai bus stations, RTA customer service centres and RTAauthorized sales agents. For more information, log on to www.nol.ae Metro stations feeder bus services have also been introduced to provide greater convenience for commuters.

Later this year, the 18-station Green Line will launch operations. It will provide convenient access for travellers to Dubai Healthcare City, Wafi City, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai Museum, Baniyas Square, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club and Dubai’s colourful souks to name a few.

SIGHTSEEING CRUISES

The sea has always been the centre of life in Dubai and a cruise in its warm waters is one of the best ways to see some of its attractions. Many luxurious dhows ply along the Dubai

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Dubai Creek Golf

Creek offering live entertainment, superb international and local cuisine and even guides who point out the major landmarks along the coastline. The RTA’s water bus service dedicated to tourism and sightseeing, Line B5, comprises a sleek catamaran that explores the city’s Creekside attractions from Shindagha to Jebel Ali. Tourists can board these vessels from the Al Shindagha and Al Seef marine stations.

The water bus service also includes four other lines that offer point-topoint passenger service across the Dubai Creek. Covering key historical landmarks such as Al Shindagha area, Al Bastakiya, Dubai Museum and traditional souks, this service offers an insight into the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. Operating hours are from 9am to midnight throughout the week. The vessel can accommodate 36 passengers and the trip takes 45 minutes, with an interval of 15 minutes between services.

The fare costs Dhs25 for children aged six years and under, and Dhs50 for adults. The ticket has a one-day validity.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Wonder Bus, an amphibious tour bus that travels on land and water.

The bright blue and yellow buses can convert into boats and undertake creek crossings. Travellers may book their tickets through tourism agents, hotels or the Water Bus office at BurJuman Mall. Tickets may also be booked by phone or by logging on to www.wonderbusdubai.net

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TRAVELLING IN STYLE

To put a luxurious spin on sightseeing tours, visitors can drive through the city in a chauffeured stretch limousine.

Easily available in the city, limousines for hire are ideal for small groups seeking comfort and style. Hundreds of car companies including international names such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt offer luxury and exotic car rentals in Dubai.

For the ultimate holiday sightseeing experience, visitors should charter a luxury yacht. Super stylish and chic, these yachts can be hired on an hourly basis along with the services of a seasoned skipper, a butler, chef and other crew. Yacht hire packages can be customized to include gourmet meals and live entertainment. The route usually encompasses a trip around the Palm Islands, Burj Al Arab and The World Islands.

Equally fascinating is Dubai by air.

Book a seaplane or helicopter tour to catch a bird’s eye view of the city.

Seawings is the only seaplane tour operator in the Middle East. The company offers several tourist packages catering for various interests from golf and beauty and wellness to water sports and arts and culture. The company operates three Cessna 208 Caravan amphibian aircraft. Taking off from the Dubai Creek, the aircraft travel at 1,500 feet giving a breathtaking aerial view of The World Islands, the Palm Islands, Jumeirah Beach, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Maritime City, Port Rashid and Dubai Festival City; and land smoothly on the Arabian Gulf. From here, visitors 102 | Touring Dubai

are escorted to the fairways of the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa. Offered by several tour operators, helicopter tours are the most popular aerial sightseeing tours in Dubai. The 30-minute flight gives travellers stunning bird’s eye-views of the Dubai Creek, Business Bay, Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, the Palm Islands and Dubai Marina. Hot air balloon rides are another exotic way to experience Dubai by air. Taking off from the heart of the desert just before sunrise, hot air balloon expeditions offer passengers magnificent aerial views of the Emirates’ sand dunes and oases. The travel programme often includes pick-up and drop-off services, refreshments and flight certificates.

BEAR IN mINd: • Driving in the UAE is on the right-hand side.

• It is mandatory to wear seatbelts.

• Using handheld mobile phones while driving is illegal.

• Certain minor traffic offences incur on-the-spot fines.

• Drinking and driving is illegal and the maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio for driving is zero.

• Highways and main roads are designated by an Emirate Route number.

• Blue or green signs indicate the main areas or locations out of the city and brown signs show heritage sites, places of interest and hospitals.

• Speed limits are clearly displayed and are usually 60 to 80 kph (37 to 50 mph) around the city and 100 to 120 kph (62 to 74 mph) on highways.

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INBOUNd TOUR OPERATORS IN dUBAI +971 4

Al Rostamani Travel and Holidays www.alrostamanitravel.com

1001 Events www.1001events.com

Al Salami Tourism & Cargo www.alsalamitours.com

Belhasa Global Tourism & Travel www.belhasaglobal.ae

ABC Tours www.abatourismuae.com

Al Tayer Travel Agency www.altayer-travel.com

Big Bus Double Decker Bus Tours www.bigbustours.com

Afridi Travel and Tourism www.afriditravel.com

Al Wasl Tourism Company www.alwasltravels.com

China Globalwide Tourism www.dubaitour.com

Airlink International UAE www.airlinkuae.com

Anta Travel & Tourism www.anta.ae

Citalia Tours www.citaliatours.com

Akkad Tours www.akkadtours.net

Apollo Flight Centre www.apolloflightcentre.ae

City Smart Tourism www.citysmart.ae

Al Abjar Tourism www.abjartourism.com

Arabia Horizons Tours www.arabiahorizons.com

Concord Travels and Tours sudhakar@cttdubai.ae

Al Deyar Tourism www.deyarhajj.com

Arabian Adventures www.arabian-adventures.com

Cosmos Tours www.cosmosbookers.com

Al Fajer Travel Tourism www.alfajertraveltourism.com

Arabian Desert Tourism and Cargo www.adtuae.com

Cox & Kings Tours www.coxandkings.ae

Al Futtaim Travel www.alfuttaimtravel.ae

Arabian Explorers www.arabian-explorers.com Arabian Incentive www.arabianincentive.com

Al Gaith & Al Moosa Travel Agency www.alta-travel.ae

Arabian Link Holidays www.arabianlinktours.com

Al Ghubaiba Tourism www.alghubaibatours.com

Arabian Nights Tours www.arabiannightstours.com

Al Hind & Middle East Travels www.alhindonline.com

Arabian Oryx Travel & Tourism www.aoryx.ae

Al Kazemi Tours www.alkazemitours.ae

Arab Link Tourism www.arablinkdubai.com

Al Majid Travel Agency www.almajidtravel.com

Arafa Tours www.arafatours.com

Al Naboodah Travel
& Tourism Agencies www.uaetraveler.com

Aster Tourism & Travel asterdxb@emirates.net.ae

Danat Dubai Cruises info@ddcgroup.ae Davies Tourism www.daviestourism.com Delta Gulf International Travel & Tourism deltaglf@emirates.net.ae Desert Adventures Tourism Company www.desertadventures.com Desert Rangers Travel Tourism & Cargo www.desertrangers.com Desert Road Tours www.desertroadtours.com

Alpha Tours www.alphatoursdubai.com

Atlanta Tourism & Cargo www.atlantadubai.com

Al Rais Tours & Travels www.alrais.com

Avionics Travels & Holidays www.avionicstravel.com

Desert Rose Tourism www.desertrose-tourism.com Desert Sand Tourism & Cargo www.desertsanduae.com Destinations of the World www.dotw.com Dream Days Tourism www.ddholidays.com

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Al Fanar Tourism & Cargo www.alfanar.ae

Becker Travel Dubai www.beckertravel.com

Dubai for Destination Tourism www.d4d.ae

Gulf Sun Travel & Tourism www.gulfsuntours.com

Lama Desert Tours & Cruises www.lama.ae

Dubai Golf Holidays & Events www.dubaigolf.com

Gulf Ventures www.gulfventures.ae

Mega Travel & Tourism www.dubaimegatravel.com

Dubai Leisure Holidays www.dubaileisureholidays.com

Gulf Wings Travel Agency www.gulfwingstravel.ae

Dubai Link Tourism www.dubailink.ae

Hala Tourism www.halatours.com

Mida Tours & Travels and Cargo abdul@midatravel.ae

Dubai Tourism & Travel Services www.dubaitravel.ae

Halley’s Comet Tourism www.mytrip.ae

Eisa Travel & Tourism www.eisatravels.com Elegance Tours www.elegancetoursdubai.com Emirates Desert Tourism www.edt.ae Emirates Oasis Tourism www.emiratesoasis.net

Hato Tours www.hatotours.com HIT Travels robin@hittravels.ae Hormuz Tourism www.hormuztourism.com

Mohebi Aviation www.mohebi.com Naresco Travel & Tourism www.nttdubai.ae National Desert Travels www.ndt.ae Net Group www.netgroupdubai.com New Route Tourism Tel: 334 9909; Fax: 334 1021

Emirates Travel Agency www.emiratestravelcargo.com

HTT – Global Incentives Tourism www.travelhtt.com

Fairyland Tours and Cruises www.ftctours.ae

Hunter International Tourism www.huntertourism.net

Ninawa Tours www.ninawatours.com

Front Line Tourism www.frontlinetourism.net

Incentive Productions/ NET Group www.netgroupdubai.com

North Tours www.northtours.net

Fun Tours Dubai & Cargo www.funtoursdubai.com

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Haryard Tours www.haryardtours.com

Mirage Tourism www.mirage-tours.com

Golden Gate Tourism & Cargo www.gateholidays.com Golden Tourist Tourism and Cargo www.goldentourist.com

International Travel Services www.itstravel-dubai.com Jaas Tourism www.jaastourism.com Jarash Tourism www.jarashtours.com

Nice Tourism & Cargo nicetourism@hotmail.com

Oasis Adventures www.opdubai.com Oasis Palm Tourism www.opdubai.com Off-Road Adventures www.arabiantours.com

Grand City Tours www.grandtours.ae

Kanoo Holidays www.kanootravels.ae

OH Travel & Tourism Services www.ohtraveldubai.com

Gulf & World Tours & Travel www.belhoul.com

Kapico Travels & Tourism www.kapicotravels.com

One Line Tourism & Travels onelineone@emirates.net.ae

Gulf Circle Tours www.gulfcircletours.com

Khasab Tours www.khasabtours.com

One World Travel & Tourism www.owtravels.com

Gulf Dunes Tours www.gulfdunes.com

Knight Tourism & Cargo www.knighttours.co.ae

Orient Tours www.orienttours.ae

Gulf Oasis Tourism www.gulfoasistourism.com

Kurban Tours www.kurbantours.ae

Orient Voyage Tourism www.orientvoyage.com

106 | Inbound Tour Operators in Dubai

Overseas Travels jaikara@emirates.net.ae

Satguru Travel & Tourism www.satgurutravel.com

Trans Arabian Sea Air Travels www.transarabian.ae

Paramount Tours & Travel www.dubaiparamount.com

Seat Holidays Dubai www.seatholidays.com

Travco Travel Dubai www.travco.com

Pasagard Tourism & Cargo tourism@pasagardgrp.com

Sight See Tourism www.sightseetourism.com

Travelex Travels & Tours www.travelex.com

Planet Travel Tours & Cargo www.planetgrouponline.com

Silk Road Travel & Tourism Tel: 265 0550; Fax: 265 1511

Trident Travel www.rhsgroup.com

Quality Tours www.quality-tour.com

Sky Max Holidays www.skymaxholiday.com

Tulip Tourism info@tuliptravels.com

Ras Al Khaimah National Travel Agency www.rantarak.com

SNTTA Emir Tours www.snttaemirtours.com

Universal Holidays www.universal-tourism.com

Reem Tours www.reemtours.net

Solar Empire Tourism www.solarempiretravel.com

Remal Al Emarat Travel & Tourism www.remaltour.ae

Sona Tourism sonatour@emirates.net.ae

Routes & Borders Tourism www.rb-tourism.com Royal Arabian Tours www.royalarabian.com Royal Dream Tourism royaldr@emirates.net.ae

Vega Tours www.vegatours.com Via Dubai Travel Tours and Cargo www.viadubaitravels.ae

South Travel & Tourism www.southtravels.com

Stalco Travel & Tourism Agency Vienna Tourism & Cargo www.viennatours-dubai.com travel@stalco.ae Star Way Tourism yarkandi2002@yahoo.com

White Dolphin Tourism whited@eim.ae

Sun East Tourism www.suneastonline.com

White Sands Tours and Travel www.whitesandstours.com

Sun Flower Tours www.sunflowerdubai.com

Wish Tourism wishingtours@hotmail.com

Sun Shine Tourism Tel: 266 4463, Fax: 266 4299

World Best Tourism wbtl@emirates.net.ae

Target Travels www.targettravels.com

World Wide Tours wwtours@emirates.net.ae

Royal Park Tourism Services www.royalpark.net

The Arabian Incentive www.arabianincentive.com

CAR RENTAL COmPANIES +971 4


Royal Wings Tourism www.royalwings.ae

The Big Bus Company www.bigbustours.com

Al Maher Rent-A-Car almaher19700@hotmail.com

Sadaf Travel & Tours www.sadaftravel.com

The Travel Market www.travelmarket-dubai.com

Al Naham Rent-A-Car alnahamx5@hotmail.com

Sand & Sea Tourism info@sandnsea.ae

Time Travel www.timetravelme.com

Al Naseem Rent-A-Car alnaseem_rac786@yahoo.com

Sandset Tours & Travel www.sandsset.ae

Trans Arabian Sea Air Travels www.transarabian.ae

Al Rehab Rent-A-Car esso_is_here@hotmail.com

Royal Gulf Tourism & Cargo www.royalgulf.info Royal Holidays www.royalholidays.ae Royal Palm Holidays www.royalpalmholiday.com

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Rida International Tourism www.ridaint.ae

Uranus Travel & Tours www.uranustravel.com

Al Tawash Rent-A-Car altawash999@yahoo.com

Discount Rent-A-Car info@discountcardubai.com

Al Wahda Rent-A-Car Tel: 271 7812, Fax: 271 7870

Discovery Rent-A-Car Co discovery@emirates.net.ae

Al-Faris Rent-A-Car f.rentacar@yahoo.com

Dollar Rent A Car dollarae@emirates.net.ae

Arab Link info@arablinkdubai.com

Dubai Rent-A-Car (Europcar) europcar@emirates.net.ae

Auto Assist Rent-A-Car autoarac@emirates.net.ae Autobahn Car Rental sm@autobahnuae.com Avis Rent-A-Car d1@avisuae.ae Budget Rent-A-Car mail@budget-uae.com Carlo Rent-A-Car carlo_rentacar@yahoo.com Concord Rent-A-Car Tel: 04 2212164, Fax: 04 2274260 Diamondlease Rent-A-Car sales_szr@diamondlease.com

Fast Rent-A-Car (Airport Branch) dxbape@fastuae.com Gargash Rent-A-Car carrental@gargashme.com Golden Cars Rent-A-Car tvsbabu123@yahoo.com Habib Abdulla Rent-A-Car habibabdulla88@yahoo.com

East Coast Rent-A-Car ecracdxb@emirates.net.ae

Hertz Rent-A-Car hertz@alfuttaim.ae

Elite Rent-A-Car elitecarrental@live.com

Idrive Rent-A-Car idrive@eim.ae

Euro Drive Rent-A-Car Tel: 334 1118, Fax: 334 1118

Julia Rent-A-Car juliarac@eim.ae

Facsimile Tel: 334 1117

Jumeirah Rent-A-Car jrc@emirates.net.ae

Europcar Car Rental etaxireserv@europcar.ae

Madhu Rent-A-Car mbcr@eim.ae

EuroStar Rent-A-Car info@eurostarrental.com

Manchester Rent-A-Car mnchster@emirates.net.ae

Fast Rent-A-Car done@fastuae.com

Matchless Rent-A-Car matchles@emirates.net.ae Metro Rent-A-Car muhammeddmr@hotmail.com National Car Rental reservations@national-ae.com

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Oscar Rent-A-Car Tel: 268 5005; Fax: 262 7060 Parklane Limousines info@parklanerental.com Patriot Rent-A-Car info@patriotuae.com Regency Rent Car bassamamour@hotmail.com Royal Motor Rental Cars royalmotor4@gmail.com Saba Rent-A-Car sabarent@emirates.net.ae Sana Rent-A-Car sanarentacar@hotmail.com 108 | Inbound Tour Operators in Dubai

going out 110 | Eating Out

Eating out Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and this vibrancy is best reflected on its dining table. With an extraordinary showcase of food and drink from around the globe, the emirate brings the world of restaurant and café culture to life.

Whichever the cuisine – Middle Eastern, Africa, Asian, European or American – Dubai guarantees a platter of it.

The most distinct part of a Middle Eastern spread is the lavish choice of fresh bite-sized starters known as ‘mezze’. With the potential of being a meal in itself, the mezze comprises a number of dips like creamy hummus garnished with red pomegranate seeds, baba ganoush and muhammara (walnut, red pepper and pomegranate dip), which is best enjoyed with piping hot Arabic bread. Black and green olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled beets, carrot and even turnips are a part of the mezze platter.

Fulsome and more savoury dishes occupy the table as the meal progresses.

Succulent shish kebabs, tender morsels of spiced lamb or chicken cooked over a charcoal fire, and skewers of mince are typical of an Arabic main course.

While dining in Dubai, guests should partake of these Middle Eastern specialties: Arabic bread: Unique to this region is the oval flat bread served with just Eating Out | 111

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Middle eastern Cuisine

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about every meal. Best enjoyed piping hot, it lends itself to a variety of eating options: toasted and stuffed with slivers of roasted lamb and crunchy vegetables, dipped in hummus and baba ganoush or even opened to form a pocket for meat, salad and falafel.

Baba ganoush: Grilled aubergines, garlic, tahina, lemon juice and olive oil are mixed to form a coarse dip.

Falafel: Made of ground chickpeas, onions and spices, falafel patties are deep fried and can be served with a variety of dips or rolled into pita bread.

Fattoush: Lettuce, cucumber and other greens dressed in mint, lemon and olive oil, served with toasted flakes of Arabic bread.

Hummus: Chickpeas, tahina or sesame seed paste, olive oil, garlic and lemon are mashed together to yield a buttery dip. Garnished with pine nuts, pomegranate seeds, parsley, cumin and chilli powder, it is the star of every mezze platter.

Tabouleh: A great alternative to traditional salads, this is a tasty mix of cracked wheat and chopped mint and parsley.

Healthy and wholesome, some of the renowned culinary creations of the local Emirati cuisine are: Asseada: Local dessert made from semolina and spiced with saffron.

Batheeth: Freshly ripened dates served with a sauce.

Balaleet: A breakfast staple of fine pasta made from eggs, onions, cinnamon and sugar.

Fareed: Carrots, potatoes, marrow and chicken or lamb are combined to 112 | Eating Out

form a stew that is then poured over a bed of regarg or pieces of very thin bread. Best when served piping hot, this is a Ramadan special.

Harees: Cubes of meat, cracked wheat and water are placed in a large mud pot and cooked on a slow flame until the meat is tender. The ingredients are then blended together until a thick porridgelike consistency is achieved.

Khabeesa: A sweet dish made from roasted flour, water, sugar and saffron.

Khamir: Thick bread, served with honey and date syrup.

Lukaimat: Deep-fried light dough balls served with date syrup.

dinner Cruises

A dinner cruise along the Dubai Creek guarantees stunning views, sumptuous food, live entertainment and great fun.

Al Mansour Dhow: A traditional sailing vessel, Al Mansour Dhow is owned and managed by the Radisson Blu Hotel. Moored opposite the hotel, Al Mansour offers evening cruises that include a full-service bar, fine dining and live music. Private and group bookings can be made on Al Mansour.

Bateaux Dubai: As inspiring as the city it traverses, a cruise aboard the elegant Bateaux Dubai is a must for visitors.

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Machboos: One of the most popular lunch dishes, machboos is an elaborate preparation of slow cooked lamb or chicken with spices, dried lemon, rice and onion. The meat is boiled with the ingredients except rice and cooked until tender. The meat is then taken out and rice is added to the ingredients and cooked. Once the rice is done, the meat is returned to the pot and simmered for another two hours.

Mohalla: Flat bread eaten with honey and date syrup, mohalla is a breakfast favourite.

beverages in a modern and luxurious setting with personalised service and fabulous music, the Bateaux Dubai is a superlative experience. The vessel can even be chartered for private events.

Dubai Dhow Cruise: Live musical entertainment, henna artists and a buffet dinner with continental and Oriental cuisine are the highlights of a cruise aboard the traditionally decorated Dubai Dhow. Bookings can be made through tour operators.

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lOCal snaCKs

Dubai’s street food is just as popular as its gourmet restaurants are. Street food is hygienic and delicious. Feel the local pulse by taking a bite of these: Shawarma: A flatbread stuffed with slivers of grilled chicken or lamb, the shawarma is the Middle East’s answer to the burrito or taco. Extra-lean meat is marinated for several hours and then packed tightly on a vertical spit to resemble a tower or cone. The spit automatically turns slowly over a hot flame, gradually cooking the meat.

Thin slivers of the cooked meat are sliced upon order, and garnished with chopped vegetables, garlic mayonnaise and rolled inside a pocket of bread.

A shawarma is one of the easiest and tastiest Arabic snacks to take on the run. Pick up a shawarma today at any café in Karama, Bur Dubai and Deira, just for a few dirhams.

Spit-roasted chicken: Best eaten piping hot with Arabic bread and creamy hummus, roasted chicken is another local favourite. Some cafés also sell chicken halves.

114 | Eating Out

Juice bars: With mounds of apples, oranges, mangoes, carrots, kiwi fruits, avocadoes, grapes, spinach and celery stalks displayed on their counters, Dubai’s juice bars are easily recognised. Freshly squeezed, crushed and blended fruit and vegetable juices are popular refreshments, and numerous juice bars around town, particularly in Bur Dubai and Karama, offer a delicious range of smoothies.

Indian snacks: Many cafés in Bur Dubai and Karama offer lip smacking Indian snacks. Some popular Indian bites are: sev puri (sweet, sour and spicy chutney over potatoes on a crisp base), bhel puri (puffed rice dish with potatoes and a tangy tamarind sauce), dahi batata puri (small deep-fried dough balls served with mashed potatoes, spicy green chutney, sweet tamarind red chutney and topped with sev or crispy chickpeaflour noodles and yogurt) and pani puri (deep-fried dough filled and dipped in a watery mixture of tamarind, chilli, chaat masala, potato, onion and chickpeas).

araBian/Middle eastern al HadHeeraH, BaB al sHaMs desert resOrt & spa

Dress Smartly

Recreating the magic of a Bedouin encampment, Al Hadheerah is an open-air restaurant replete with shaded courtyards, walkways, water features, live music, falconry displays and camel and horse treks. Cooked the traditional way in wood-fired ovens and spit roasts, the Arabic cuisine is mouth watering. www.jumeirah.com

Live Entertainment

al iWan,

Restaurants Key tO iCOns

An explanation of the symbols or icons listed on individual review pages is detailed below: QuiCK reFerenCe

Burj al araB

Reservation Recommended

Outside Terrace

Offering the most luxurious Arabic meal in the city, Iwan is renowned for its hammour (grouper) and shish Taouk (skewered grilled chicken). Apart from the stellar menu, the restaurant’s interiors are also designed to impress – set in the heart of the world’s tallest atrium, flanked by golden columns and the Arabian Sea framed in its windows.

Vegetarian Dishes Available

al KHaiMa,

Children Welcome Wheelchair Facility

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Will Deliver Serves Alcohol

le rOyal Méridien

tiMings

Timings are subject to ‘seasonal’ change and bear in mind that with restaurant opening timings, typically kitchens will close 30 minutes to one hour before closing.

116 | Restaurants

A beachfront restaurant that serves an extensive platter of hot and cold mezze and the most succulent barbecue in town. www.leroyalmeridien-dubai.com

eWaan, tHe palaCe,

platO’s,

dOWntOWn Burj KHaliFa

atlantis – tHe palM

Its regal arches and wooden trellis are eloquent of its Arabian inspirations.

And so are its live cooking stations and extensive buffets which serve authentic Arabic and Oriental cuisine.

Guests can choose to sit on the outdoor terrace or opt for a cozy dinner in the private dining alcoves.

Located on the ground floor of The Palace, the restaurant is open daily for breakfast from 6am to 10:30am, for buffet lunch from noon to 3pm, and for buffet dinner from 7pm until midnight. À la carte choice is available from midday to midnight. www.theaddress.com

To indulge in a connoisseur’s collection of coffees, teas, traditional pastries or even exquisite after-dinner drinks, visit Plato – a traditional yet elegant Arabian coffee house found just off the Royal Towers Lobby of the Atlantis, the Palm. www.atlantisthepalm.com

FaKHreldine,

sHaBestan,

MövenpiCK HOtel in Bur duBai

radissOn Blu at duBai deira CreeK

With exceptional kebabs, salads and live entertainment at its forefront, Fakhreldine serves traditional Lebanese cuisine with pride. www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Known for its succulent lamb and hammour dishes, Shabestan also treats diners to a variety of freshly baked breads and live music. www.radissonblu.com

persia persia,

tagine,

WaFi

One&Only rOyal Mirage

Fluffy, buttery rice, classic salads, exotic kebabs and sumptuous stews and desserts feature on its authentic Persian menu, along with Beluga caviar, Iranian tea and freshly baked bread. www.wafi.com

Reminiscent of an old home in Marrakech, Tagine has lanterns, rugs and artefacts that adorn the rooms, arches, alcoves and tobacco coloured, hand polished and wax plastered walls, and present diners with more than just

MarraKeCH, sHangri-la HOtel duBai

Restaurants | 117

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Savor the flavors of contemporary Moroccan cuisine in the air courtyards of Marrakech at the Shangri-La Hotel. www.shangri-la.com

a taste of Morocco. The roasted lamb shoulder ensures repeat visits. Tagine is open for dinner only. www.oneandonlyresorts.com

indian antiQue Bazaar, FOur pOints By sHeratOn Bur duBai

Featuring kebabs and curries that trace their origins back to the times of the Mughal Empire, a meal at Antique Bazaar is akin to eating like royalty. Antique silverware, ornate settings and plush interiors enhance the dining experience. www.starwoodhotels.com

Masala CraFt, tHe aviatiOn CluB

asHa’s,

going out

WaFi

Specialising in North Western Indian cuisine, Asha’s is the brainchild of Indian artiste and entrepreneur Asha Bhosle.

The establishment’s most prolific offering is its kebabs – succulent and tender meats flavoured with fragrant herbs and spices. www.wafi.com indegO, grOsvenOr HOuse

Foodies should try the live takatak tava tandoor at this trendy restaurant that serves Indian cuisine with a twist.

Takatak is a typical Lahori dish that is named after the sound that a spatula makes when it hits the tava (a large, flat or slightly concave disc-shaped griddle) to break the meat morsels and turn the masala (a blend of ground spices). www.aviationclub.ae

internatiOnal BrauHaus, juMeira rOtana

Helmed by Vineet Bhatia, the first Indian chef to be awarded a Michelin star, Indego serves divine Indian cuisine. The sublime hammour tikka and madras home-style chicken curry with coconut rice are the stars of the show. www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com 118 | Restaurants

Bavarian cuisine and culture come to life at this German restaurant.

Delectable German specialties such as schnitzel, sauerkraut and sausages are served amidst an ambience of

help steer the journey through this gastronomic wonderland. www.ichotelsgroup.com tHe irisH village, tHe aviatiOn CluB

Blue Elephant

mirth and merriment. The beverage selection is extensive too. www.rotana.com

The Irish Village brings together great food and lively foot-tapping music and encourages friendly conversation.

Enjoy traditional Irish fare such as smoked salmon with tangy tomato chutney, deep-fried mushrooms in Guinness batter, and homemade Irish stew. Some nights, tribute bands treat pub guests to performances on a stage built over an ornamental lake. www.aviationclub.ae

ManHattan grill, grand Hyatt duBai

tHe riB rOOM,

Serving the freshest and finest imported US beef, lamb, fish and seafood, this sophisticated restaurant is quintessential New York dining at its best. The superb wine list features a large selection of New and Old World wines by the glass and bottle. www.dubai.grand.hyatt.com

The Rib Room promises the most succulent steaks and the freshest seafood in a relaxing, chic and stylish setting. www.jumeirah.com

asian Blue elepHant, al Bustan

reFlets par pierre gagnaire,

rOtana

interCOntinental HOtel – dFC

Chef Gagnaire has created an intense contemporary French menu of mouthwatering marvels which he calls ‘multisensory hits’. The expertise of the resident sommelier and culinary guide

Tender chicken satay, crunchy spring rolls dipped in sweet and sour sauce, the hot and spicy tom yam koong soup, green papaya salad with dried shrimps and lemon dressing, emerald chicken wrapped in pandan leaves Restaurants | 119

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juMeiraH eMirates tOWers

and served with ginger and sesame sauce, and slowly braised lamb in a medium-spicy red curry sauce – just a few of Thailand’s mouth-watering offerings to the world. Experience these skilfully recreated culinary delights and many more at the Blue Elephant. www.blueelephant.com FisH MarKet, radissOn Blu HOtel at duBai deira CreeK

Tuck in to sweet prawns, crabs, fish and shellfish, cooked to order by the restaurant’s team of expert Southeast Asian chefs. www.radissonblu.com

the pyramid-shaped Raffles Dubai, Noble House holds a reputation for serving the finest of China’s regional cuisines. www.raffles.com sHang palaCe, sHangri-la HOtel duBai

Delicately poached fish with Szechuan peppercorns, steaming dim sum, delicious Peking duck and crispy stirfried vegetables – exquisite Cantonese pleasure bites served exclusively at the Shang Palace. www.shangri-la.com tOKyO@tHetOWers, juMeiraH eMirates tOWers

HuKaMa, tHe address –

going out

dOWntOWn Burj duBai

A unique dim sum à la carte menu and a wide selection of Chinese teas are the prolific offerings of Hukama, the Chinese bistro at The Address, Downtown Burj Khalifa. www.theaddress.com

At Tokyo@TheTowers, diners can choose from teppanyaki grills, tableside cooking and an extensive à la carte menu. The restaurant’s pillar-lined gallery also offers private tatami rooms for intimate dinners. www.jumeirah.com zuMa, duBai internatiOnal FinanCial Centre

nOBle HOuse, raFFles duBai

Contemporary Szechuan and Cantonese bites along with panoramic views of Dubai’s glittering skyline are the highlights of Noble House. Set within the glass crown of 120 | Restaurants

Zuma offers contemporary Japanese food which is inspired by the izakaya philosophy of Japanese informal dining. The menu has delights such as crispy fried squid with green chillies and lime, sushi and sashimi, robata or charcoal-grilled items such as shitake

mushrooms and Wagyu beef and house specialities including seared miso-marinated foie gras and crispy lemon sole with spicy ponzu sauce. www.zumarestaurant.com

CeleBrity-CHeF restaurants

Convinced by Dubai’s passion for elite food, gourmet stalwarts such as Gary Rhodes and Nobu Matsuhisa have brought their own inimitable style and flavours to the city’s flourishing dining scene.

rOnda lOCatelli

Ronda’s epicurean offerings trace their roots to classic Italian cuisine, blended with new flavours created in partnership with Italian celebrity chef Giorgio Locatelli. Think freshly baked pizzas, breads and al forno dishes prepared in woodfired ovens. www.atlantisthepalm.com OssianO

rHOdes Mezzanine

rOstang

nOBu

Master chef Nobu Matsuhisa infuses modern Japanese elements with Arabian influences to redefine Japanese cuisine. The interiors are a harmonious mix of traditional and modern Japanese elements, creating a distinctly urban experience. www.atlantisthepalm.com

Experience Parisian chic all day long at this brasserie that boasts a fresh seafood bar, a patisserie of sublime delicacies and classic French cuisine. Traditional specialities are served with a modern twist under the watchful eye of talented two-star Michelin chef Michel Rostang. www.atlantisthepalm.com Restaurants | 121

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Headed by Michelin-starred chef Gary Rhodes, Rhodes Mezzanine presents the best of modern British cuisine within settings that can be likened to a visual masterpiece. A multitude of design influences from baroque to modern have been melded to create dazzling interiors, making the restaurant the most stunning dining venue in Dubai. www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

Santi Santamaria, the three–star Michelin chef, offers gourmet seafood and a seductive ambience in the underwater world of Atlantis, The Palm. In his first venture outside Europe, the ‘architect of food’ offers an intensity of flavours and a focus on technique with his Catalan cuisine in an elegant space inspired by the ocean depths. www.atlantisthepalm.com

48 hours in Dubai Make the most out of your two-day Dubai stint with our sample guide that helps you cover the most exciting sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis. day One

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super Malls

Start off with Dubai’s original claim to fame – shopping!

Head to the Dubai Mall, the region’s premiere leisure and entertainment destination. The largest retail space in the world, Dubai Mall has multiple attractions that are sure to enthrall visitors. The mall boasts: over 1000 retail outlets that include top brands such as Bloomingdales, Galleries Lafayette, Chanel, Louis Vuitton; a gold souk; KidZania – the region’s first edutainment centre; SEGA Republic; the Olympicsized Dubai Ice Rink; and a 22-screen movie theatre.

The centrepiece of the mall is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo which shelters more than 33,000 marine animals including 400 sharks and rays.

Visitors can walk through the 270-degree acrylic tunnel or simply peer in from the aquarium’s viewing panel, the largest in the world. The mall’s waterfront promenade offers a stunning view of the spectacular Dubai Fountain – the world’s largest dancing fountain.

Offering another superlative shopping experience is the Mall of the Emirates – winner of the nation’s ‘Best Mall’ award.

The mall showcases more than 500 international brands that retail fashion, lifestyle, sports, electronics and home furnishing products. Its super stylish Fashion Dome features flagship stores such as Louis Vuitton, Paul Smith and 122 | 48 Hours

Diane von Furstenberg. In addition the mall also houses: Magic Planet – a leisure facility; a 14-screen cinema; and Ski Dubai – the region’s only indoor skiing resort.

Shoppers can take the Red Line of the Dubai Metro to reach the mall.

Water Fun

A visit to Dubai would be incomplete without undertaking an aquatic adventure – be it at the beach or one of the city’s exciting water parks.

Choose from the exhilarating Aquaventure at Atlantis, The Palm or the thrilling Wild Wadi on Jumeirah Beach Road. With rides and slides that range from mild to wild, these parks are a mustdo for families. Or stop by the Dubai Dolphinarium at the Creekside Park for a chance to swim with dolphins and witness an exciting seal performance.

On the more adventurous side, book a scuba diving trip with The Pavilion Dive Centre at Jumeirah Beach Road. A scuba dive is the perfect way to marvel at Dubai’s reefs, corals and marine life.

The city’s tour operators also offer tailor-made packages that include jet– skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, sailing, deep-sea fishing and cruising. Indulge in the ultimate water luxury by chartering a yacht or boat. Several of the city’s tour operators offer yacht rentals that come complete with a trained crew, fishing equipment and refreshments. Xclusive Yachts has an impressive fleet that ranges

HABTOOR GRAND BEACH RESORT & SPA Book your stay in Dubai at the 5 star luxurious resort that offers .perfect vistas, where lush landscapes meet the warm Arabian Gulf Situated on the world renowned Jumeirah Beach, the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa features 446 Rooms and Suites and offers a wealth of facilities and activities. Indulge your senses at any of the 17 themed restaurants and bars, relax by the pool, enjoy the beach and water .sports, then pamper yourself at Elixir Spa For reservations call +971 4 399 5000 or email grandjumeirah@habtoorhotels.com www.habtoorhotels.com

from 33-foot fishing boats to 188-foot luxury cruisers that can accommodate a party of 50. spa BreaK

Dubai holidays are synonymous with pampering and relaxation. The city has a number of sensual spas that offer an array of therapies to calm the mind and soothe the body. The Spa at The Palace – The Old Town is one of the city’s most exclusive relaxation and rejuvenation spaces. Its Oriental treatments are guaranteed to rejuvenate and energise both the mind and body. day tWO

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Cultural tOur

On the second day of your stopover, delve into Dubai’s cultural canvas. Start at Al Bastakiya, the oldest residential area of the city, famous for its traditional wind tower houses and narrow winding lanes. Now a heritage site, Bastakiya is located in the eastern part of Bur Dubai along the Dubai Creek. Engage in the traditional Arabic art of calligraphy in House 118 or make your own gypsum art at the gypsum workshops at the Restoration House. Art enthusiasts can visit the three art centres – the Majlis, XVA and Art Connection galleries at Bastakiya. The Coins Museum at Bastakiya is a point of interest too.

The cultural breakfasts organised by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding are a great way to have any queries about Dubai answered.

Hosted by UAE nationals, these meals provide a wealth of information about the city. Visitors can even undertake 124 | 48 Hours

walking tours of the historically restored wind tower area.

Spend the evening at the Bastakiah Nights restaurant, snacking on hummus, freshly baked Arabic bread and a glass of cool pomegranate juice. The Basta Art Café serves refreshing coffee and limeand-mint drinks too. sOuK it up

Dubai’s colourful and multifarious souks are perfect for picking up souvenirs. Choose from reams of fabrics, dallahs (traditional coffee pots), traditional jewellery, oil-based fragrances, fragrant spices, preserved dates, or Iranian, Afghani and Kashmiri carpets.

Reminiscent of an Arabian marketplace, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is an architectural gem featuring a series of water-ways. An Abra tour on these is the perfect way to see this magnificent edifice. desert saFari

The Arabian desert offers some great fun-filled moments, and a Dubai trip is incomplete without a desert ‘safari’. Dune drives, hot air balloon rides, sand skiing, quad biking, camel rides, desert dinners and visits to the Hatta fortress – these are just some of the highlights of the desert safaris the city’s tour operators offer. dHOW dinner Cruise

Stunning views of the city’s skyline along the Dubai Creek, accompanied by fine dining and live musical entertainment are made possible by a dinner cruise along the creek. Offered by a number of tour operators across the city, including Bateaux Dubai, a dhow dinner cruise guarantees a magical evening.

going out 48 Hours | 125

accommodation Five-star hotels +971 4

Tel: 301 7777; Fax: 301 7000 BAAreservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.burj-al-arab.com

: Provides some facilities for people with special needs.

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel PO Box 30880 Tel: 282 0000; Fax: 282 8100 res.albustan@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com

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Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira PO Box 8668 Tel: 262 5555; Fax: 269 7358 cpdeira.info@ihg.com Website: www.ichotelsgroup.com

Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa PO Box 7631 Tel: 303 4222; Fax: 343 9696 almaha@emirates.com Website: www.al-maha.com Al Murooj Rotana Hotel PO Box 117546 Tel: 321 1111; Fax: 321 5555 res.almurooj@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com Al Qasr Hotel PO Box 75157 Tel: 366 8888; Fax: 366 7788 reservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.jumeirah.com

City Centre Hotel and Residence PO Box 61871 Tel: 294 1222; Fax: 295 4444 H2022@accor.com Website: www.pullmanhotels.com

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Crowne Plaza Hotel  PO Box 23215 Tel: 331 1111; Fax: 331 5555 reservations@cpdubai.ae Website: www.crowneplaza.com/dubai

Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa PO Box 5182 Tel: 346 1111; Fax: 346 0234 reservations@dxbmarine.com Website: www.dxbmarine.com

Bonnington Jumeirah Lakes Tower PO Box 37246 Tel: 356 0600; Fax: 356 0400 reservations@bonningtontower.com Website: www.bonningtontower.com

Dusit Thani Dubai PO Box 133 Tel: 343 3333; Fax: 343 3352 reservations.dtdu@dusit.com Website: www.dusit.com 

Fairmont Hotel PO Box 97555 Tel: 332 5555; Fax: 332 4555

Grand Hyatt Dubai  PO Box 7978 Tel: 317 1234; Fax: 317 1235 reservations.grandhyattdubai@hyatt.com Website: www.dubai.grand.hyatt.com Grand Millennium Dubai  PO Box 212422 Tel: 429 9999; Fax: 374 3777 reservations@grandmill-dubai.com Website: www.grandmillenniumdubai. com Grosvenor House Dubai PO Box 118500 Tel: 399 8888; Fax: 399 8444 reservations@lrm-gh-dubai.com Website: www.grosvenorhousedubai.com

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City PO Box 45771 Tel: 701 1111; Fax: 232 9055 reservations@ichdfc.ae Website: www.crowneplaza.com/dfc

Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah  PO Box 211222 Tel: 426 1000; Fax: 426 1001 reservations@atlantisthepalm.com Website: www.atlantisthepalm.com

126 | Where to Stay

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Dar Al Masyaf PO Box 75157 Tel: 366 8888; Fax: 366 6414 MJreservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.jumeirah.com

Armani Hotel Dubai PO Box 888333 Tel: 888 3888; Fax: 888 3777 info@armanihotels.com Website: www.armanihotels.com

Burj Al Arab PO Box 74147

dbireservations@fairmont.com Website: www.fairmont.com

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Habtoor Grand Resort and Spa PO Box 24454 Tel: 399 5000; Fax: 399 4547 roomreservations@habtoorhotels.com Website: www.habtoorhotels.com Hilton Dubai Creek PO Box 33398 Tel: 227 1111; Fax: 227 1131 reservations.dubai@hilton.com Website: www.hilton.com Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort PO Box 2431 Tel: 399 1111; Fax: 399 1112 reservations.dubai@hilton.com Website: www.hilton.com

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Hyatt Regency Dubai  & Galleria PO Box 5588 Tel: 209 1234; Fax: 209 1235 dubai.regency@hyatt.com Website: www.dubai.regency.hyatt.com Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel PO Box 211508 Tel: 444 0440; Fax: 444 0001 reservations.ibnbattuta@ moevenpick.com

Where to Stay | 127

InterContinental Dubai Festival City PO Box 45777 Tel: 701 1111; Fax: 232 9098 reservations@ichdfc.ae Website: www.intercontinental. com/dubai

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Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina PO Box 24883 Tel: 399 3333; Fax: 399 4003 reservations@lemeridien-minaseyahi. com Website: www.lemeridien-minaseyahi. com

JAL Tower Dubai PO Box 9940 Tel: 308 0000; Fax: 308 0011 Website: www.jaltowerdubai.com Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa  PO Box 9255 Tel: 814 5555; Fax: 883 4391 jagrsrev@jaihotels.com Website: www.jebelaliinternational.com Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa PO Box 8168 Tel: 809 6100; Fax: 832 6698 jbasreservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.jumeirah.com

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AccommodAtion

Jumeirah Beach Hotel  PO Box 11416 Tel: 4068500; Fax: 301 6800 jetreservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.jumeirahbeachhotel.com Jumeirah Emirates Towers PO Box 72127 Tel: 330 0000; Fax: 330 3030 jetreservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.jumeirah.com

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JW Marriott Hotel  PO Box 16590 Tel: 262 4444; Fax: 262 6264 jwdubai.reservation@marriott.com Website: www.jwmarriottdubai.com Kempinski Hotel  PO Box 120679 Tel: 341 0000; Fax: 341 4500 reservations.malloftheemirates @ kempinski.com Website: www.kempinski.com/dubai Le Méridien Dubai PO Box 10001 Tel: 217 0000; Fax: 282 4672 128 | Where to Stay

Mövenpick Hotel –  Jumeirah Beach PO Box 282825 Tel: 44 98888, Fax: 449 8889 hotel.jumeirahbeach.reservation@ moevenpick.com www.moevenpick-jumeirahbeach.com

reservation@lemeridien.com Website: www.lemeridien.com/dubai

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Le Royal Méridien  Beach Resort and Spa PO Box 24970 Tel: 399 5555; Fax: 399 5999 reservations@lrm-gh-dubai.com Website: www.leroyalmeridien-dubai. com Media Rotana Barsha – Dubai PO Box 503030 Tel: 435 0000; Fax: 435 0011 res.media@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com

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Metropolitan Palace Hotel PO Box 56262 Tel: 227 0000; Fax: 227 9993 res.palacedubai@habtoorhotels.com Website: www.habtoorhotels.com Mina A’Salam Hotel PO Box 75157 Tel: 366 8888; Fax: 366 6414 MJreservations@jumeirah.com Website: www.jumeirah.com

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Mövenpick Hotel Deira  PO Box 234344 Tel: 444 0111, Fax: 444 0112 reservations.Deira@moevenpick.com Website: www.moevenpick-hotels.com Mövenpick Hotel  & Apartments Bur Dubai PO Box 32733 Tel: 336 6000; Fax: 310 4208 hotel.burdubai.reservation@ moevenpick.com Website: www.moevenpick-burdubai. com

One&Only The Palm Tel: 410 1010 info@oneandonlythepalm.com Website: www.thepalm. oneandonlyresorts.com One&Only Royal Mirage  PO Box 37252 Tel: 399 9999; Fax: 399 8073 reservations@oneandonlyroyalmirage. ae Website: www.oneandonlyroyalmirage. com Park Hyatt Dubai  PO Box 2822 Tel: 602 1234; Fax: 602 1606 reservations.parkhyattdubai@hyatt.com Website: www.dubai.park.hyatt .com Radisson Royal Hotel  PO Box 9940 Tel: 308 0000, Fax: 308 0011 reservations.royaldubai@radissonblu. com Website: www.radissonblu.com/ royalhotel-dubai Raffles Dubai Po Box 121800 Tel: 324 8888; Fax: 324 6000 bookus.dubai@raffles.com Website: www.raffles.com/dubai Samaya Hotel Deira PO Box 88449 Tel: 703 3333; Fax: 703 3344 reservations@samayahotel.com Website: www.samayahotel.com Shangri-La Hotel PO Box 75880 Tel: 343 8888; Fax: 321 1022 reservations.sldb@ shangri-la.com Website: www.shangri-la.com

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Sheraton Jumeirah Beach  Resort and Towers PO Box 53567 Tel: 399 5533; Fax: 399 5577 jumeira.reservations@sheraton.com Website: www.sheraton.com/ jumeirahbeach Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach  PO Box 473828 Tel: 448 4848; Fax: 432 8456 h6146@sofitel.com Website: www.sofitel.com Taj Palace Hotel Dubai PO Box 42211 Tel: 223 2222; Fax: 227 8222 tphreservations.dxb@tajhotels.com Website: www.tajhotels.com The Address, Downtown Dubai PO Box 123234 Tel: 436 8888; Fax: 436 8880 stay@theaddress.com Website: www.theadddress.com The Address Dubai Mall PO Box 31166 Tel: 423 8888; Fax: 436 8880 dubaimall@theaddress.com Website: www.theaddress.com The Address Dubai Marina PO Box 39923 Tel: 436 7777; Fax: 436 7788 dubaimarina@theaddress.com Website: www.theaddress.com The Address Montgomerie Dubai PO Box 36700 Tel: 363 1276; Fax: 360 8971 Montgomerie@theaddress.com Website: www.theaddress.com

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The Meydan Hotel  PO Box 9305 Tel: 381 3333, Fax: 381 3344 meydanreservations@meydanhotels. com Website: www.meydanhotels.com

Arabian Courtyard Hotel  and Spa PO Box 46500 Tel: 351 9111; Fax: 351 7744 info@arabiancourtyard.com Website: www.arabiancourtyard.com

The Monarch Hotel  PO Box 125511 Tel: 501 8888; Fax: 501 8859 reservations@themonarchdubai.com Website: www.themonarchdubai.com

Ascot Hotel PO Box 52555 Tel: 352 0900; Fax: 302 1035 info@ascothoteldubai.com Website: www.ascothoteldubai.com

The Palace Hotel – The Old Town PO Box 9770 Tel: 428 7888; Fax: 428 7999 reservations@thepalace-dubai.com Website: www.theaddress.com

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The Ritz-Carlton  Dubai Hotel PO Box 26525 Tel: 399 4000, Fax: 399 4001 reservation.dubai@ritzcarlton.com Website: www.ritzcarlton.com/dubai The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina PO Box 24883 Tel: 399 4141; Fax: 399 9144 reservations.dubai@westin.com Website: www.westin.com\ dubaiminaseyahi Four-star hotels +971 4 Al Jawhara Gardens PO Box 121711 Tel: 210 7777; Fax: 294 4557 sales@aljawharahotel.ae Website: www.aljawharahotel.com

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Al Khaleej Palace Hotel PO Box 3720 Tel: 223 1000; Fax: 221 1293 reservations@alkhaleejhotels.ae Website: www.alkhaleejhotels.ae Al Manzil Hotel  PO Box 114788 Tel: 428 5888; Fax: 428 5999 reservationsalmanzil@southernsun.ae Website: www.almanzilhotel.com

Avari Dubai Hotel PO Box 50400 Tel: 295 6666; Fax: 295 9659 reservations@avari-dubai.ae Website: www.avari.com

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Avenue Hotel  PO Box 182244 Tel: 297 0808; Fax: 265 3925 reservations@avenuehoteldubai.com Website: avenuehoteldubai.com reservations@hawthorn-deira.com Website: www.manhattan-avenue.com Byblos Hotel PO Box 500234 Tel: 448 8000; Fax: 448 8088 reservation@capitol-hotel.com Website: www.bybloshoteldubai.com Capitol Hotel PO Box 33228 Tel: 346 0111; Fax: 346 0333 reservation@capitol-hotel.com Website: www.capitol-hotel.com Carlton Tower Hotel PO Box 1955 Tel: 222 7111; Fax: 222 0224 reservation@carltontower.net Website: www.carltontower.net

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Cassells Al Barsha Hotel PO box 114400 Tel: 408 4777, Fax: 408 4771 reservation@cassellsalbarshahotel.com Website: www.cassellsalbarshahotel.com City Centre Hotel and Residence PO Box 61871 Tel: 294 1222, Fax: 295 4444

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Where to Stay | 129

AccommodAtion

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel and Towers PO Box 4250 Tel: 228 1111; Fax: 221 3468 reservationsdubaiuae@ sheraton.com Website: www.sheraton.com/dubai

h2022@accor.com Website: www.accorhotels.com City Seasons Hotel  PO Box 182002 Tel: 294 2777; Fax: 294 2888 reserve@cityseasonshotel.com Website: www.cityseasonsgroup.com Copthorne Hotel Dubai PO Box 119311 Tel: 295 0500; Fax: 295 9763 reservations@cop-dubai.com Website: www.copthornehoteldubai. com

AccommodAtion

Courtyard By Marriott Green Community Dubai PO Box 63845 Tel: 885 2222; Fax: 885 2525 cy.dxbcy.reservation@courtyard.com Website: www.cydubaigreencommunity. com

Dubai Marriot Harbour Hotel and Suites PO Box 7631 Tel: 399 7977; Fax: 319 4006 130 | Where to Stay

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Emirates Grand Hotel  PO Box 116957 Tel: 323 0000, Fax: 323 0003 reservations@egh.ae Website: www.emiratesgrandhotel.com

Coral Oriental Hotel PO Box 83252 Tel: 228 1999; Fax: 228 1997 reservations@coral-orientaldubai.com Website: www.coralorientaldubai.com

Dhow Palace Hotel PO Box 121545 Tel: 359 9992; Fax: 359 9242 reservations@dhowpalacedubai.com Website: www.dhowpalacehoteldubai. com

Dusit Princess City Centre PO Box 35771 Tel: 209 5000; Fax: 209 5111 dpcdrsvn@dusit.com Website: www.dusit.com Emirates Concorde Hotel & Residence PO Box 64225 Tel: 223 0003; Fax: 227 0888 reservation@emiratesconcorde.com Website: www.emiratesconcorde.com

Coral Deira Hotel PO Box 82999 Tel: 224 8587; Fax: 223 8084 reservations@coral-deira.com Website: www.coral-deira.com

Delmon Hotel PO Box 6264 Tel: 228 0222; Fax: 228 4287 reservations@ delmonhotel.ae Website: www.delmonhotel.ae

Website: www.fourpoints.com/ sheikhzayedroad

ekresorts@emirates.com Website: www.emirateshotelsresorts. com

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Gold Swiss-Belhotel P.O. Box 66431 Tel: 345 9992 Fax: 345 9994 E-mail: reservationgsbd@swiss-belhotel. com Website: www.dubai.swiss-belhotel.com Golden Tulip Al Barsha PO Box 125962 Tel: 341 7750; Fax: 341 7751 reservation@goldentulipalbarsha.com Website: www.goldentulipalbarsha.com Grand Central  PO Box 185722 Tel: 299 9977, Fax: 298 0333 reservations@grandcentraldxb.com Website: www.grandcentralhoteldubai.com

Excelsior Creek Hotel Tel: 357 2999; Fax: 357 2555 E-mail: info@excelsiorcreekhotel.com Website: www.excelsiorcreekhotel.com

Grand Excelsior PO Box 214343 Tel: 444 9999, Fax:444 9998 reservations@grandexcelsior.ae Website: www.grandexcelsior.ae

Flora Grand Hotel PO Box 120328 Tel: 223 3344; Fax: 222 2880 grandres@florahotels.ae Website: www.florahospitality.com

Grand Moov Hotel PO Box 14441 Tel: 606 2244; Fax: 269 1604 reservations@grandmoov.com Website: www.grandmoov.com

Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai PO Box 33196 Tel: 397 7444; Fax: 397 7333 reservations.fps@fourpoints.com Website: www.fourpoints.com/burdubai

Hall Mark Hotel PO Box 64264 Tel: 222 1999; Fax: 222 2332 reservations@hallmarkhotel.com Website: www.hallmarkhotel.com

Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Dubai PO Box 116162 Tel: 354 3333; Fax: 354 3111 reservations.downtowndubai@ fourpoints.com Website: www.fourpoints.com/ downtowndubai Four Points by Sheraton – Sheikh Zayed Road PO Box 116162 Tel: 323 0333; Fax: 323 0343 reservations.szrdubai@fourpoints.com

Hatta Fort Hotel PO Box 9277 Tel: 852 3211; Fax: 852 3561 hfh@hattaforthotel.com Website: www.hattaforthotel.com Holiday Inn Downtown Dubai PO Box 29499 Tel: 228 8889; Fax: 228 8866 rsvn@hidubai.ae Website: www.holiday-inn.com

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Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha  PO Box 115443

Jumeira Rotana Hotel Dubai  PO Box 33640 Tel: 345 5888; Fax: 345 8777 res.jumeira@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com Le Méridien Fairway PO Box 10001 Tel: 608 5000; Fax: 283 3030 reservation@lmdubai.com Website: www.lemeridien.com/ fairway

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Lotus Boutique Hotel  PO Box 172747 Tel: 273 5555; Fax: 293 9600 info@lotus-hospitality.com Website: www.lotus-hospitality.com Lotus Hotel  PO Box 63833 Tel: 227 8888; Fax: 228 0840 reservationslh@lotus-hospitality.com Website: www.lotus-hospitality.com Majestic Hotel Tower Dubai PO Box 122235 Tel: 359 8888; Fax: 359 8889 info@dubaimajestic.com Website: www.dubaimajestic.com

Metropolitan Hotel Deira PO Box 33214 Tel: 295 9171; Fax: 295 8377 res.metdeira@habtoorhotels.com Website: www.habtoorhotels.com Metropolitan Hotel Dubai PO Box 26666 Tel: 343 0000; Fax: 343 7616 res.metdubai@habtoorhotels.com Website: www.habtoorhotels.com Millennium Airport Hotel  PO Box 13018 Tel: 702 8888; Fax: 702 8877 res@mill-airportdubai.com Website: www.millenniumhotels.com Moscow Hotel PO Box 119911 Tel: 228 8222; Fax: 228 8220 reservation@moscowhoteldubai.com Website: www.moscowhoteldubai.com Novotel Deira City Centre PO Box 185310 8th Street, Deira City Centre, Dubai, UAE Tel: 702 8000; Fax: 702 8010 H6482@accor.com Website: www.novotel.com

Marco Polo Hotel PO Box 25570 Tel: 272 0000; Fax: 272 0002 marcohot@emirates.net.ae Website: www.marcopolohotel.net Marina Byblos PO Box 123223 Tel: 448 8222, Fax: 448 8220 reservation@marinabybloshotel.com Website: www.marinabybloshotel.com Marriott Harbour Hotel and Suites PO Box 66662 Tel: 319 4000, Fax: 319 4006 mhrs.dxbhr.rooms.reservation@ marriott.com Website: www.marriott.com

Media One Hotel @ Dubai Media City PO Box 121818 Tel: 427 1000 Fax: 4271001 cu@mediaonehotel.com Website: www.mediaonehotel.com

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Novotel World Trade Centre PO Box 9622 Tel: 302 0000; Fax: 291 5201 reservations@accorwtc.ae Website: www.novotel.com

Radisson Blu Hotel,  Dubai Media City PO Box 211723 Tel: 366 9111; Fax: 368 8961 reservations.dubai@radissonblu.com Website: www.radissonblu.com/ hotel-mediacitydubai Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek PO Box 476 Tel: 222 7171; Fax: 221 6741 reservations.dxbza@radissonblu.com Website: www.deiracreek.dubai. radissonblu.com Ramada Continental Hotel PO Box 31999 Tel: 266 2666; Fax: 266 8887 reservation@ramadacontinental.com Website: www.ramadacontinental.com Ramada Chelsea Hotel  Al Barsha PO Box 120257 Tel: 501 9000, Fax: 501 9100, reservations@ramadachelseadubai.com Website: www.ramadachelseadubai. com Ramada Jumeira Hotel PO Box 121122 Tel: 702 7000, Fax: 702 7099 reservations@ramadajumeirah.ae Website: www.ramadajumeirah.ae Ramada Hotel Dubai PO Box 7979 Tel: 351 9999; Fax: 351 5021 rooms@ramadadxb.ae Website: www.ramadadubai.com

Park Regis Kris Kin PO Box 8264 Tel: 377 1111; Fax: 357 4477 kriskin@parkregisdubai.com Website: www.parkregisdubai.com

Ramee Royal Hotel PO Box 26816 Tel: 334 4088; Fax: 334 4077 myra@rameehotels.com Website: www.rameehotels.com

Qamardeen Hotel  PO Box 114788 Tel: 428 6888; Fax: 428 6999 reservationsqamardeen@southernsun.ae Website: www.qamardeenhotel.com

Regent Palace Hotel PO Box 26816 Tel: 396 3888; Fax: 396 4080 reservations@rameehotels.com Website: www.rameehotels.com

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Where to Stay | 131

AccommodAtion

Tel: 323 4333; Fax: 323 4334 reservations@hialbarsha.com Website: www.holidayinn.com/ dubaialbarsha

Riviera Hotel PO Box 1388 Tel: 222 2131; Fax: 221 1820 riviera@emirates.net.ae Website: www.rivierahotel-dubai.com

Towers Rotana Hotel PO Box 30430 Tel: 343 8000; Fax: 343 5111 res.towers@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana P.O. Box 126452 Tel: 323 0111; Fax: 323 0222 rose.rayhaan@rotana.com Website: www.rotana.com

Traders Hotel PO Box 81877 Tel: 265 9888; Fax: 265 9777 thdb.reservations@shangri-la.com Website: www.tradershotel.com

Royal Ascot Hotel PO Box 115160 Tel: 355 8500; Fax: 355 8501 info@royalascothotel-dubai.com Website: www.royalascothotel-dubai. com

Al Khaleej Holidays PO Box 19260 Tel: 227 6565; Fax: 227 9686 kholiday@emirates.net.ae Website: www.alkhaleejhotels.com

AccommodAtion

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Sea View Hotel PO Box 52700 Tel: 355 8080, Fax: 355 0099 reservation@seaviewhoteldubai.com Website: www.seaviewhoteldubai.com

The Country Club Hotel PO Box 118094 Tel: 398 8840; Fax: 398 7042 reservation@countryclubdubai.com Website: www.countryclubdubai.com 132 | Where to Stay

Al Khaleej Hotel PO Box 10559 Tel: 221 1144, Fax: 223 7140 khotel@alkhaleejhotels.ae Website: www.alkhaleejhotels.com Ambassador Hotel PO Box 3226 Tel: 393 9444; Fax: 393 9193 ambhotel@astamb.com Website: www.astamb.com Arabian Park Hotel PO Box 122382 Tel: 324 5999; Fax: 324 5656 reservations@arabianparkhotel.com Website: www.arabianparkhotel.com

reserve@astamb.com Website: www.astamb.com Auris Lodge Al Barsha PO Box 184827 Tel: 325 5088, Fax: 325 5288 lodge1@auris-hotels.com Website: www.auris-hotels.com California Hotel PO Box 1590 Tel: 224 2429; Fax: 222 3347 cfhhotel_dxb@yahoo.com Website: www.californiahoteldubai.com Citymax Hotel Al Barsha PO Box 116121 Tel: 409 8000, Fax: 325 5780 reservations@citymaxhotels.com Website: www.citymaxhotels.com

Admiral Plaza Hotel PO Box 26888 Tel: 393 5333; Fax: 393 5111 admplaza@emirates.net.ae Website: www.admiralplazahotel.com

Sadaf Hotel PO Box 172788 Tel: 222 5510; Fax: 222 5212 hr@sadafhotel.ae Website: www.sadafhotel.net

Sheraton Deira Hotel PO Box 5772 Tel: 268 8888; Fax: 268 8876 sheratondeira@sheraton.com Website: www.sheraton.com/deira

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three-star hotels +971 4

Rydges Plaza Dubai PO Box 24621 Tel: 398 2222; Fax: 398 3700 reservations_dubai@rydges.ae Website: www.rydges.com/dubai

Sadaf Delmon – Al Rigga PO Box 21969 Tel: 228 0222, Fax: 228 4287 resv@delmonhotel.ae Website: www.delmonhotel.ae

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Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai PO Box 50271 Tel: 407 8000, Fax: 325 2589 reservations@citymaxhotels.com Website: www.citymaxhotels.com City Star Hotel PO Box 118747 Tel: 227 0002; Fax: 227 2245 starcity@emirates.net.ae Website: www.citystarhotel.ae Claridge Hotel PO Box1833 Tel: 271 6666, Fax: 272 2626 reservation@mehgroupdxb.com Website: www.claridgehotel.ae Comfort Inn Hotel PO Box 56352 Tel: 222 7393; Fax: 222 9910 sales@hotelcomfortinn.com Website: www.hotelcomfortinn.com

Aramada Al Barsha PO Box 102950 Tel: 432 7171, Fax: 348 5404 ramadaalbarsha@hotmail.com Website: www.ramadadubai.com

Copthorne Airport Hotel Dubai PO Box 13018 Tel: 702 8888, Fax: 282 0627 res@mill-airportdubai.com Website: www.millenniumhotels.com

Astoria Hotel PO Box 457 Tel: 353 4300; Fax: 353 5665

Deira Town Hotel PO Box 171404 Tel: 223 3456; Fax: 223 1313

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Desert Palm Hotel and Resort PO Box 103635 Tel: 323 8888; Fax: 323 8053 reservations@desertpalm.ae Website: www.desertpalm.ae

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Dream Palace Hotel PO Box 82777 Tel: 222 9292; Fax: 222 7779 dphtl@eim.ae Website: www.dreampalacehotel.com Dubai Grand Hotel PO Box 34150 Tel: 263 2555; Fax: 263 5552 reservation@dubaigrandhotel.ae Website: www.dubaigrandhotel.ae

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Dubai Palm Hotel PO Box 21969 Tel: 271 0021; Fax: 272 1698 reservations@ dubaipalmhotel.com Website: www.dubaipalmhotel.com Dulf Hotel PO Box 33324 Tel: 228 5444; Fax: 228 2848 dulf@emirates.net.ae Website: www.dulfhotels.com

Tel: 515 6600; Fax: 399 6669 h6540-re1@accor.com Website: www.ibishotel.com

Tel: 357 2000, Fax: 357 3355 reservations.lch@londoncrown.ae Website: www.londoncrown.ae

Hotel Ibis World Trade Centre Po Box 9544 Tel: 332 4444; Fax: 318 7000 reservations@accorwtc.ae Website: www.ibishotel.com

London Suites Hotel PO Box 2603 Tel: 324 4774; Fax: 324 4884 lsuites@emirates.net.ae Website: www.londonsuiteshotel.com

Jonrad Hotel PO Box 29476 Tel: 222 5550, Fax: 222 5543 conradha@emirates.net.ae Website: www.jonradhotel.com

Lords Hotel PO Box 27867 Tel: 228 9977; Fax: 227 3772 lords@eim.ae

Millennium Airport Hotel (Branch – Transit) PO Box 13018 Tel: 702 8888; Fax: 282 0627 res@mill-airportdubai.com Website: www.millenniumhotels.com

King’s Park Hotel PO Box 13130 Tel: 228 9999; Fax: 227 1777 kingsprk@emirates.net.ae Website: www.kpdubai.com 

Fortune Plaza Hotel  PO Box 49185 Tel: 263 5500, Fax: 263 5818 plaza@fortunegroupofhotels.com Website: www.fortunegroupofhotels.com

K-Porte Inn Dubai PO Box 14441 Tel: 606 2244; Fax: 269 1604 reservations@kporte.com Website: www.kporte.com Landmark Hotel PO Box 42222 Tel: 228 6666; Fax: 224 3997 land1@emirates.net.ae Website: www.lmhotelgroup.com

Grandeur Hotel PO Box 499521 Tel: 341 8777; Fax: 323 4722 info@grandeur.com Website: www.grandeurhotel.com

Landmark Plaza Hotel PO Box 42222 Tel: 227 5555; Fax: 228 6676 lanplaza@emirates.net.ae Website: www.lmhotelgroup. com

Highland Hotel PO Box 116346 Tel: 393 9773; Fax: 393 7399 reservation@highlandhoteldubai.com Website: www.highlandhoteldubai.com

Layia Oak Hotel and Suites PO Box 283634 Tel: 437 7888, Fax: 437 7999 reservations@layia.com Website: www.layia.com

Hotel Ibis Al Barsha PO Box 450011

Mayfair Hotel PO Box 33315 Tel: 228 4444; Fax; 222 7228 info@mayfairdubai.ae Website: www.mayfairdubai.ae

Karama Hotel PO Box 116945 Tel: 336 6607; Fax: 334 2727 reservation@karamahotel.ae Website: www.karamahotel.com

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London Crown Hotel PO Box 31388

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Montreal Hotel PO Box 34296 Tel: 221 7676; Fax: 221 7674 mntrlhtl@emirates.net.ae Website: www.mgroupdubai.com Nihal Hotel PO Box 14914 Tel: 295 7666; Fax: 295 7676 reservation@nihalhotel.ae Website: www.nihalhoteldubai.ae Orchid Hotel PO Box 14042 Tel: 295 6999; Fax: 295 8844 orchidsl@emirates.net.ae Website: www.orchidhoteldubai.com Palm Beach Hotel PO Box 5822 Tel: 393 1999; Fax: 393 3111 palmbhtl@emirates.net.ae Premier Inn Dubai International Airport PO Box 35118 Tel: 260 4000, Fax: 260 4004 Where to Stay | 133

AccommodAtion

Email : dthtl@eim.ae Website: www.deiratown.com

reservations.dia@mena.premierinn. com Website: www.premierinn.ae Premier Inn Dubai  Investments Park PO Box 35118 Tel: 885 0999; Fax: 885 1729 reservations@mena.premierinn.com Website: www.global.premierinn.com/ hotels/home

AccommodAtion

Premier Inn Dubai Silicon Oasis PO Box 35118 Tel: 885 0999; Fax: 885 1729 reservations@mena.premierinn.com Website: www.global.premierinn.com/ hotels/home

Rydges Plaza Dubai PO Box 24621 Tel: 3982 222, Fax: 398 3700 reservations_dubai@rydges.ae Website: www.rydges.com

Rainbow Hotel PO Box 6283 Tel: 357 2172, Fax: 357 2131 raindxb@emirates.net.ae Website: www.rainbowhotel.ae

St George Hotel PO Box 3944 Tel: 225 1122; Fax: 226 8383 reservation@stgeorgedubai.ae Website: www.stgeorgedubai.com

Ramee Rose PO Box 26816 Tel: 450 0111, Fax: 450 0222 reservation.rose@rameehotels.com Website: www.rameehotels.com

Suite Novotel Mall of the Emirates PO Box 283825 Tel: 702 8000; Fax: 702 8010 H6670@accor.com Website: www.suitenovotel.com

Rio Hotel Dubai PO Box 49789 Tel: 325 9966, Fax: 325 9027 es@riohoteldubai.com Website: www.riohoteldubai.com 134 | Where to Stay

Tulip Inn Hotel PO Box 500707 Tel: 367 2222; Fax: 429 0929 sales@tulipinnfzllc.com Website: www.tulipinnfzllc.com

Sandras Inn Hotel PO Box 5062 Tel: 222 4333; Fax: 222 5373 sandrain@emirates.net.ae Website: www.sandrasinn.com Seashell Inn Hotel PO Box 20715 Tel: 393 4777; Fax: 393 4466 reservation@ seashellinnhotel.com Website: www.lmhotelgroup.com

Regent Beach Resort PO Box 127328 Tel: 344 5777, Fax: 344 6789 reservationrbr@rameehotels.com Website: www.rameehotels.com

The Imperial Suites Hotel PO Box 52444 Tel: 351 5100; Fax: 351 1647 imphotel@eim.ae Website: www. imperialsuiteshotel.com

Sadaf Delmon Hotel – Al Bateen PO Box 172788 Tel: 222 5510 Fax: 228 3455 natella583@mail.ru Website: www.sadafhotel.net

Princess Hotel PO Box 35559 Tel: 263 5500; Fax: 263 5818 princhtl@emirates.net.ae Website: www.princesshoteluae.com

Regal Plaza Hotel PO Box 26842 Tel: 355 6633; Fax: 355 6622 regaldxb@rameehotels.com Website: www.rameehotels.com

syaj_emirates@yahoo.com Website: www.syajhoteldubai.com

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Vendome Plaza Hotel PO Box 20331 Tel: 222 2333; Fax: 222 0900 vphotel@emirates.net.ae Website: www.vendomeplaza.com Versailles Hotel PO Box 33382 Tel: 227 7880; Fax: 227 7725 sriman@versailleshotel.ae Website: www.versaillesdubai.com York International Hotel PO Box 82555 Tel: 355 5500; Fax: 355 4499 reservations@ yorkinternationalhotel.ae Website: www.yorkhoteldubai.com

Sun and Sands Downtown PO Box 187168 Tel: 222 2110, Fax: 222 2311 ssdt@eim.ae Website: www.sunandsanddowntown. com Sun & Sands Hotel PO Box 35659 Tel: 223 9000; Fax: 228 3455 s.shtl@emirates.net.ae Website: www.sunsandhotel.com Syaj Hotel PO Box 81282 Tel: 273 0900; Fax: 273 0491

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Zain International Hotel PO Box 14938 Tel: 222 2202; Fax: 222 2205 sales-noor@zaingrouphotels.com Website: www.zaingrouphotels.com

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glossary LANGUAGE GLOSSARY Surprise and win the hearts of the local populace by speaking in Arabic. While English is widely spoken across the city, the Emiratis always appreciate travellers trying to understand their culture and speak their language. Arabic has been the root of many other languages of the Islamic world, in much the same way Latin has been for most European languages. As the language of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, it is also widely used throughout the Muslim world.

Here we list a useful selection of local Arabic words:

136 | Glossary

Social Social GreetinGS GreetinGS

Good Good morning morning – Sabaah – Sabaah al-khair al-khair Reply: Reply: Good Good morning morning – Sabaah – Sabaah an-noor an-noor ‘Peace ‘Peace bebe upon upon you’ you’ is ais general a general greeting greeting when when meeting meeting someone someone - As-salaam As-salaam alaykum alaykum Reply: Reply: WaWa alaykum alaykum as-salaam as-salaam How How areare you? you?

– –Kayf Kayf haalak haalak Reply: Reply: ‘Thanks ‘Thanks bebe to to God’ God’ – – Al-humdoolillah Al-humdoolillah bikhair bikhair Welcome Welcome – Ahlan – Ahlan wawa sahlan sahlan Welcome Welcome (as(as a reply) a reply) – Ahlan – Ahlan bekum bekum God God willing willing – Inshallah – Inshallah Hello Hello – Marhaba – Marhaba Goodbye Goodbye – Ma’assalaama – Ma’assalaama

common phraSeS

Thank you – Shukran Yes – Na’am No – La Please – Min fadlak (to a man) / Min fadliki (to a woman) Do you speak English? – Tatakullum Ingleezi?

I don’t understand – Ana maa afham How much? (cost) – Bekam?

How many? – Kam? Sorry – Muta’assif I didn’t know – Ana ma araft Excuse me – Ismahlee

I will be back in five minutes – Aarja ba’d khamsa daqaa’iq Water taxi – Abra DayS of the week

Sunday – Yome al-ahad Monday – Yome al-ithnayn Tuesday – Yome ath-thalaatha Wednesday – Yome al-arba’a Thursday – Yome al-khamees Friday – Yome al-juma’a Saturday – Yome as-sabt numberS

in a taxi

To the Burj Al Arab Hotel please – Il al-funduk Burj Al Arab minfudluk Go straight ahead, please – Ruh seeda, minfudluk To the left here – Il al-yesaar hina To the right – Il al-yameen Stop there, please – Woqqof hinaak minfudluk Slower, please – Bibut minfudluk

0 – sifr 1 – waahid 2 – ithnayn 3 – thalaatha 4 – arba’a 5 – khamsa 6 – sitta 7 – saba’a 8 – thamaania 9 – tis’a 10 – ashara 100 – meeya

Wait here, please – Intadhar hina minfudluk

Glossary | 137

Index

index & map

A Abaya 30 Abra 49, 124, 137 Abu Dhabi 12-14, 39 Airport buses 95 Ajman 13, 21, 94 Al Ahmadiya School and Heritage House 49 Al Badia Golf Club 69 Al Bastakiya 28, 29, 40, 52, 53, 101, 124 Al Boom Tourist Village 49, 97 Al Diyafah Street 86 Al Fahidi Fort 29, 50 Al Ghurair City 79 Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa 13, 37 Al Mamzar Beach Park 59 Al Mousa Medical Centre 32 Al Nasr Leisureland 72, 101 Al Safa Park 58, 59 Al Wasl Hospital 32 Al-Khaleej 21 American Hospital Dubai 32 Aquaventure 42, 43, 60, 122 Arabian hare 36 Arabian horses 28 Arabian oryx 36, 37 Arabian primrose 37 Arabian Ranches 14, 69 Arabian red fox 36 Arabian sand gecko 36 Arabic calligraphy 28, 49, 52, 124 Armani Hotel 41 Art Attack Gallery 55 Art Connection 52, 124 ArtSpace 55 At the Top 41 Atlantis, The Palm 42, 117, 122 Ayyam Gallery 55 B Bait Al Wakeel Bastakiah Nights Restaurant 138 | Index

49 52, 124

Bateel 90 Bedouin 29, 37 Bedouin Village 50 Belhoul European Hospital 32 Belhoul Speciality Hospital 32 Bin Jam’aan House 50 Black-winged stilt 38 Bowling 70 Broad-billed sandpiper 39 Burj Al Arab 42, 116 Burj Khalifa 41, 116 Burj Nahar 50 BurJuman 79 Buses 21, 94 C Calligraphy in House 188 Camel racing Camel rides Car hire Children’s City Cycling

52, 124 30, 72 67, 124 16, 97 60 69

D Dallah 91, 124 Date palm 29, 36 Deira City Centre 79 Deira Creekside 43 Department of Health and Medical Services 20 Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing 26 DragonMart 81 Du 23 Dubai Airports 26 Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo 81, 122 Dubai Autodrome 72 Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre 55 Dubai Creek 43, 101 Dubai Creekside Park 59 Dubai Cruise Terminal 26 Dubai Culture and Arts Authority 16 Dubai Desert Classic 76

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve 36 Dubai Dolphinarium 60 Dubai Duty Free 87 Dubai Festival City 45 Dubai Grand Prix 75 Dubai Harvard Foundation for Medical Research 32 Dubai Health Authority 32 Dubai Healthcare City 32 Dubai Hospital 32 Dubai International Airport 25, 26 Dubai International Art Centre 28, 55 Dubai International Bowling Centre 70 Dubai International Film Festival 77 Dubai Mall 81, 122 Dubai Mall Medical Centre 32 Dubai Metro 19, 95 Dubai Museum 49 Dubai Rugby Sevens 75 Dubai Taxi Corporation 21, 94 Dubai Tennis Championships 76 Dubai Tennis Stadium 76 Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport 13, 26 Dubai World Cup 69, 72, 76 Dubai World Trade Centre 43 Dune buggy safari 68 Dunlins 38 E Eid in Dubai 88 Emirates Airline 16, 19 Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens 75 Emirates Airline International Festival of Literature 77 Emirates Equestrian Centre 72 Emirates Golf Club 69 Emirates Towers 43 Encounter Zone 60, 83 Etisalat 23

F Falconry 30, 68 Federal Council of Ministers 14 Federal National Council 14 Festival Centre 45, 81 Fishing 66 Fujairah 13 G Ghaf Gishwa Global Village Go-karting Gold and Diamond Park Gold Souk Golf Grand Cinemas Grand Mosque Green Art Gallery Gulf News Gypsum Workshops

36 30 60 72 45 84 69 81 54 57 21 53

H Harvard Medical School Dubai Centre 32 Hatta Heritage Village 50 Heritage and Diving Village 50 Horse racing 72 Horse riding 72 House of Scholar Mohammad Sharif 29 Hummus 111-114 Hyatt Regency Galleria 72 I Ibn Battuta Mall Ice skating IMAX cinema Indoor skiing Iranian Hospital Islam

82 72 31, 41, 59 72 32 21, 31

J Jebel Ali Equestrian Club Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jebel Ali Hospital

72 72 32 Index | 139

Jumeirah Beach Park Jumeirah Golf Estates K Karama Khaleej Times KidZania L Ladies taxis Lamcy Plaza Little egrets Little green bee-eater

index & map

M Machboos Madinat Jumeirah Magic Planet Majlis Gallery Mall of the Emirates Marine Environment & Wildlife Section Medcare Hospital Meena Bazaar Mercato Mall Meydan City Mezze Moorfields Eye Hospital Motor racing Mouhamara N Naif Museum Nakheel Harbour & Tower Neuro Spinal Hospital New Medical Centre Nol ticket

59 69

86, 114 21 63

21 82 38 39

113 45 63 53 82 39 32 86 83 46 111 32 72 111

51 95 32 32 99, 109

P Palm Jumeirah Palm Monorail Parasailing Port Rashid

42 43, 95 66 102

Q Qu’ran

19, 85

140 | Index

R Ramadan Rashid Hospital Red-wattled lapwing Reef Mall Rhodes Mezzanine

31 32 39 83 121

S Sand gazelle 36 Sand skiing 69 Satwa 91 Scuba diving 67 SEGA Republic 63, 81 Sharjah 13 Shayla 29 Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum Bin Butti Bin Suhail Al Maktoum 52 Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan 14 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum 14 Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding 53 Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum 12 Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House 51 Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan 12 Sheikh Zayed Road 46 Shindagha 97 Shish kebab 111 Shooting and archery 69 Ski Dubai 63 Snorkelling 67 Souk Madinat Jumeirah 124 Souks 84 Speedboating 67, 70 T Tagine Taxis Tennis The Address, Downtown Dubai

117 21 70 70

The Aviation Club The City Hospital The Gulf Today The Leap of Faith The Address Montgomerie Dubai The National The Sevens The Third Line Thunder Bowl

70 32 21 60 14 21 75 57 72

U UIM Class 1 World Offshore Powerboat Championship 69 Umm Al Quwain 13 Umm Al Shief Majlis 51 W Wafi City Wakeboarding Welcare Hospital Wild Wadi Waterpark Wind surfing Wonderland

83 67 32 63 67 64

X Xclusive Yachts XVA Gallery

122 53

Z Zabeel Technology Theme Park Zulekha Hospital Zuma

59 32 120

Map Legend Five-Star HotelS

K E13 L E12 M E14 D7 E11 E13 D6 E13 E13 E11 E11

Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa Al Murooj Rotana Hotel & Suites Atlantis, The Palm Al Qasr Hotel Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa Coral Deira Hotel Crowne Plaza Hotel Dubai Dar Al Masyaf Dhow Palace Hotel Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa Dusit Dubai Emirates Towers Hotel Fairmont Hotel Grand Hyatt Dubai Grosvenor House Dubai Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa Hilton Dubai Creek Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Hyatt Regency Dubai Radisson SAS Deira Creek Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Club Resort & Spa Jumeirah Beach Hotel JW Marriott Hotel Kempinski Hotel Le Méridien Dubai Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa Metropolitan Palace Hotel Mina A’ Salam Hotel Moevenpick Bur Dubai One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai Crowne Plaza Hotel Dubai Deira Ritz-Carlton Dubai Shangri-La Hotel Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort & Towers Sofitel City Centre Hotel Taj Palace Hotel Dubai The Address Dubai Mall The Address Downtown Burj Khalifa

D10

E13 E11 E13 D12 E13 F14 E8 D12 E13 D13 E13 G6 E13 E13 F14 E13 E13 E13 E13 I13 E13 E12 E12 F13 E13 E13 E13 E13 E13 E10 F13 E13 E11 E7 F14 D12 E13 E13 D12 D12

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi

Four-Star HotelS Al Khaleej Palace Hotel Al Manzil Hotel Arabian Courtyard Hotel Ascot Hotel Avari Dubai Hotel Best Western Dubai Grand Hotel Byblos Dubai Hotel Capitol Hotel Carlton Tower Hotel Chelsea Hotel Coral Oriental Hotel Courtyard By Marriott Delmon Hotel Dubai Concorde Hotel Dubai Grand Hotel Flora Grand Hotel Four Points Sheraton Hotel Golden Tulip Aeroplane Hotel Hall Mark Hotel Hatta Fort Hotel Hawthorn Hotel, Deira Holiday Inn Downtown Jumeira Rotana Hotel Dubai Le Méridien Fairway Lotus Hotel Lotus Boutique Hotel Marco Polo Hotel Mayfair Hotel Metropolitan Deira Hotel Metropolitan Hotel Dubai Millennium Airport Hotel Moscow Hotel Novotel World Trade Centre Radisson SAS Hotel, DMC Ramada Continental Hotel Ramada Hotel Dubai Regent Palace Hotel Dubai Riviera Hotel Rydges Plaza Dubai Seaview Hotel Map Legends | 141

index & map

F13 I 11 E11 C7 A I6 E13 E11 B E12 C E11 E11 E11 F12 D E E13 F D13 E13 G H D9 E13 E8 I J

index & map

E13

Sheraton Deira Hotel & Towers

E13

York International Hotel

D6

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach

E13

Zain International Hotel

E7

The Palm Hotel

E11

Towers Rotana Hotel

C14

Qamardeen Hotel

E13

Traders Hotel

Selected Hotel apartmentS 1

Al Bustan Residence

2

Al Faris Hotel Apartments 3

tHree-Star HotelS

3

Capitol Residence Hotel Apartments

D12

Admiral Plaza Hotel

4

Desert Rose Hotel Apartments

E12

Al Karama Hotel

5

Dusit Hotel Apartments

E12

Al Khaleej Holidays

6

Flora Creek Deluxe Hotel Apartments

E12

Al Khaleej Hotel

7

Flora Park Deluxe Hotel Apartments

D12

Ambassador Hotel

8

Golden Sands 10

D12

Astoria Hotel

9

Imperial Residence Hotel Apartments

D12

Broadway Hotel

10

Le MĂŠridien Furnished Beach Villas

E13

City Star Hotel

11

Le MĂŠridien Sondos Suites

E13

Comfort Inn Hotel

12

Marriott Executive Apts (Dubai Creek)

E13

Conrad Hotel

13

Marriott Executive Apts (Green Community)

E13

Dubai Palm Hotel

14

Oasis Court Hotel Apartments

E13

Fortune Hotel

15

Pearl Residence

E13

Gulf Pearl Hotel

16

Rihab Rotana Suites

E11

Ibis World Trade Centre

17

Rolla Residence

D12

Imperial Suites Hotel

18

Sofitel City Centre Residence

E13

Kings Park Hotel

19

Taj Palace Hotel Apartments

D13

Land Mark Hotel

20

Wafi Residence

D13

Landmark Plaza Hotel

21

Savoy Suites Hotel Apartment

E13

Lords Hotel

22

Savoy Park Hotel Apartment

E13

Nihal Hotel

23

Savoy Crest Hotel Apartment

E13

Orchid Hotel

D11

Palm Beach Rotana Hotel

G14

Princess Hotel

18

Abu Hail Centre

E13

Quality Inn Horizon

19

Al Bustan Centre

E13

Regal Plaza Hotel

20

Al Dhiyafa Shopping Centre

D11

Regent Beach Resort

21

Al Ghurair City

D12

Sandras Inn Hotel

22

Al Hana Centre

D12

Seashell Inn Hotel

23

Al Khaleej Centre

D14

St. George Hotel

24

Al Manal Centre

E13

Sun & Sand Hotel

25

Al Mazaya Centre

E13

Vendome Plaza Hotel

26

Al Mulla Plaza

E13

Versailles Hotel

27

Al Rais Shopping Centre

142 | Map Legends

SHopping mallS

28

Beach Centre

H4

Jumeirah Archaeological Site

29

Bin Sougat Shopping Centre

H5

Naif Museum

30

BurJuman Centre

31

Century Mall

32

Dana Centre

1

Dubai Creek

33

Deira City Centre

2

Shindagha

59

Dubai Mall

3

Bastakiya

34

Dune Centre

4

Dubai Museum

35

Emirates Boulevard

5

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

36

Hamarain Centre

6

Nad Al Sheba Club

37

Holiday Centre

7

Beach Parks

38

Ibn Battuta Mall

8

Recreational Parks

39

InterContinental Plaza

9

Hatta Heritage Village

40

Jumeirah Plaza

10

Gold Souk

41

Lamcy Plaza

11

Spice Souk

42

Magrudy’s Centre

12

Ski Dubai

43

Mall of the Emirates

44

Mercato

45

Jumeirah Centre

46

Oasis Centre

47

Palm Strip Shopping Mall

important numberS

48

Reef Mall

Tourist Information

+971 4 224 5252

49

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Centre / Airport (24 Hrs)

+971 4 220 0250

50

The Galleria

Police

999

51

The Village

Al Ameen

8004888

52

Town Centre Jumeirah

Ambulance

998

53

Wafi City

Fire

997

54

Warba Centre

Directory Enquiry

181

55

Times Square

Dubai Transport

+971 4 208 0808

56

Dragonmart Complex

Airport Enquiry

+971 4 224 5555

57

Souk Al Bahar

Al Baraha Hospital

+971 4 271 0000 H1

58

Dubai Outlet Mall

Int’l Private Hospital

+971 4 221 2484 H2

Al Maktoum Hospital

+971 4 222 1211 H3

Heritage SiteS

Al Wasl Hospital

+971 4 324 1111 H4

4

Dubai Museum

American Hospital

+971 4 336 7777 H5

9

Hatta Heritage Village

Belhoul Apollo Hospital

+971 4 273 3333 H6

13

Al Ahmadiya School

Iranian Hospital

+971 4 344 0250 H7

H1

Sheikh Saeed House

New Dubai Hospital

+971 4 271 4444 H8

H2

Heritage & Diving Village

Rashid Hospital

+971 4 337 4000 H9

H3

Heritage House

Welcare Hospital

+971 4 282 7788 H10 Map Legends | 143

index & map

Selected attractionS

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

5

5

A

B

C

D

E

F

Al Ras

Peninsula

M A M P A PO F O DF U D B U A B I A I

Al Ras Al Ras Waterfront

Waterfront Cornichee Peninsula

Al Ras

Cornichee Palm Jebel Ali

The World

Riviera

TThe Universe

TThe Universe

The Crescent

h Palm Jumeirah

Warehouses

Industrial Area

Sheik

h Zaye d Road

Inte Interchan8 rcha No. No. nge 10

Road

ge

Port Jebel Aliange Interch No.9

Jebel Ali IndustrialSheikh Zayed

chan Jebel Inter Ali 8 No. Village

Road

D u b a i I n d u s t r i a l C i t y

D u b a i I n d u s t r i a l C i t y

Emirate s Road

I

Emirates Road

Dubai World Central Logistics city

Central Dubai World City Commercial

Emirates

Road

Dubai Investment Park (1)

Central Dubai WorldWest cityrt Logistics Airpo Entrance

m Al MaktouAirport International

Dubai World Central Golf City

s Road

1

2

Outer By-Pas

s Road

2

Dubai Media Extension

Jumeirah Dubai Investment Park (1) Golf Estates

3

(2)

Golf Club EmiratesInterchange [36 hole] No.4

The Springs (Phase 11)

IMPZ

Jebel Ali World Business DubaiGolf Investment Park (2) Centre

Dubai Eques Polo &

Do

inski

(1) Al Safa Jumeirah Road UmmSheikh Zayed Road Interchange No.2 Al Manara Al Sheif

Park

R/A)

Dubai World Trade Centre

Al

Emirates Towers

Burj Khalifa

Za’abel Road

Za

Horse Raffa P Racecourse Za

(2) Al Qouz (3) Al Qouz (1) Al Qouz Al Qouz (3) Al QouzZa’abel (1) Roun Al Qouz Industrial (1) Bay Business Business BayZa’ab Souk Al Bahar Industrial (3) Doha Road Al Qouz (4) Al Qouz (4) Al Qouz HOPE Dubai Al Was Al Qouz Humanitarian City ad Industrial (4) (2) Industrial (2) Al Qouz Al Qouz (2) Ro Ou

Al Barsha South (1)

Al Barsha South (2)

South Al Barsha Residential ira tes

Nadd

Ro

ad

Dubai Eques Polo & train Club

Arabian Ranches

Al Barari Arabian Dubai Legends Legends Ranches of Nature of the world Majan Mirador

Legends of Arabia

Legends Dubai

Planetarium

Al Reem 3

Aqua of Arabia DunyaDubai City

Outer By-Pass Road

Bazar

Gaints World

Astralab Kids Labor World

Falcon City

World

Dubai land

5

Labor

Liwan Teen World

Nadd Al Shiba (3)

Kids World

Silicon Oasis

Residentia l (Low Density) Residentia l Residentia (Medium l Density) (Medium Density)

The Villa

D u b a iBawadi land

The Villa

Dubai land Residences Complex

(1)

R In

Majan

Aqua of Arabia Nadd Al Shiba (4) DunyaDubai City Interchange No.2 Bazar City Emirates Road Falcon Gaints Astralab

Teen World

ass Road r By-P

Shiba

Ras Al Kh Ind. Area (

Al Barari

Legends Legends of Nature of the world Legends of Arabia

Global Village

Nadd Al Shiba Golf Course

Dub estr ai ain Cen tre

Equ

Ras Al Khor Nadd Ind. Area (1)Al

Nadd Al Shiba (2)

Arabian Ranches Golf ClubLegends

Oute

4

MEYDAN CITY

Interchange No.1

Planetarium

Mirador

Nadd Al Shiba Horse Racing

Al Shib

a (1) Life World

Life World

Motor City

Arabian Ranches Golf Club

Nadd Al Shiba Golf Course

Dub estr ai ain Cen tre

Equ

Dubai biotech

Em

Dubai Autodrome

Global Village

4

Duba Dry Dock

Hu Dubai Ladies Club

Jumeirah (2) Mercato Al Satwa R/A Jumeirah (3) Al Bada’a Al Satwa Road Safa Interchange Al Wasl Ja (1) Al Satwa Park Al Safa No.1 Interchange (Defence No.2 Road Sheikh Zayed Road Sheikh Zayed

Gold and Diamond Park

Doha Road

ha

Roa Al dQouz Industrial Al Barsha(2) (2)

Al Qouz Industrial (4)

Al Barsha Cultural South (1)

Dubai biotech

Dubai Sports City

d Jebel Ali train Club Golf Worl Business Centre

Bawadi

3

Kamp

Ski Dubai

Al Qouz Al Barsha (3) Al Qouz Industrial (1) Industrial (3)

Al Reem 3

tral rld Cen City ai Wo Dub idential Res

Al Safa (2))

Interchange No.4

Private Dubai Beach Island

Jumeirah Beach Park

(2) Jumeirah Jumeriah Road

m (1) Umm Suqeim Al Wasl Al Safa (2))

tha

Outer By-Pass Road

ass Road r By-P

Diamond Park

Al Manara Al Barsh a (1)

Dubai Diving Centre

Private Island

Dubai Offshore Sailing Club Jumeirah Beach Park Dubai Ladies Club

d Me

C e n t r a l

Oute

The Dubai Media Views Extension Gold and

inski

Jebel Ali Horse Racecourse

Umm Suqeim (2) Al Sufouh (2)

Jumeirah Road

Desert

Al Sheif

Centre

Al Barsha South (2)

South Al Barsha Residential eirah Jum Em Golf ira testes Road

Esta Dubai Autodrome

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Wild Wadi Jumeriah Road Road Umm Suqeim Jumeriah Madinat (3) Park Dar Al Masyaf Jumeirah Conference Hall Summer Arabian m (1) Suqeim Umm House Safa Umm Suqeim (3) Umm Suqeim (2)

Al Sufouh Road Umm Suqeim Park

The Umm Spring Village Greens

Kamp

Ski The Lakes Dubai

Jumeirah Village

Emirates Road

Cultural Centre Jumeirah Golf Estates

Dubai Sports City

Emmar Business Park

Al Barsha (2)

Motor City

tral rld Cen City ai Wo Dub idential Res East Airport Entrance

Central Dubai WorldEast City rt AviationAirpo Entrance

(DMCC)

Al Ba Jumeirah rsh Heights a (1)

Jebel Ali Jumeirah Al BarshaEmirates (3) Hills Horse Racecourse Island Montgomerie Jumeirah GolfDoCourse ha Roa Park The Springs d

m Al MaktouAirport International

Dubai World Central Golf City Dubai World Central Aviation City

Outer By-Pas

The Views

The Lakes

The Springs

West Airport Entrance

W o r l dD uC be an it rWa ol r l d

Desert Spring Village

The Greens

Discovery

Montgomerie Golf Course

Jumeirah Village

Jumeirah Golf Estates

Dubai Investment Park (2)

D u b a i

Emmar Business Park

Emirates HillsGardens

Al Furjan

IMPZ

Road

Emirates Golf Club [36 hole]

The Springs (Phase 11)

Emirate s Road

Emirates

Central Dubai World City Commercial

Discovery Jebel Ali Jumeirah Gardens Village Island Jumeirah Park

Jebel Ali Industrial

FREE ZONE

DM Medial & Hazardous Waste Treatment Plant

Jumeirah The Gardens Heights

Burj Al Arab Dubai Offshore Sailing Club

Wild Wadi Jumeriah Road Madinat Dar Al Masyaf DubaiSummer Media City Conference Hall Arabian Knowledge Village House Dubai Internet Suqeim (3) UmmCity

Umm Suqeim Road

Zayed

FREE ZONE

(DMCC)

(DMCC) Ibn Battuta mall

The Gardens

Industrial Area

ge

Sheikh

Steel Industry

Ibn Battuta mall

Jumeirah Lakes Towers Al Sufouh

Umm Suqeim Road

Port Jebel Aliange Interch No.9

Dubai Internet City

Mall of the Emirates

MRTP

Inte rcha No. nge 10

DM Medial & Hazardous Waste Treatment Plant

Emirate s Road

Dubai Marina Al Sufouh Road Interchange No. 5 Dubai Media CityRoad Zayed Sheikh Knowledge Village

Road Jumeirah Lakes Towers (DMCC) Sheikh Zayed

Mall of the Emirates

h Zaye d Road

Sheikh

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Jumeirah Palm Palm Mall,Madinat Beach Hotel Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah

Interchange No. 6

Interchange No. 5 Sheikh Zayed Road Interchange No. 7

Al Furjan Emirate s Road

Dubai Promenade

Jumeirah Palm Mall, Palm Jumeirah TheBeach Trunk Residence The Trunk

Dubai Marina

DUGAS Bottling Plant

Interchange No. 6

d

Warehouses Sheik

MRTP

Steel Industry

Dubai Promenade

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Gulf Extrusion Plant

Container Terminal General Cargo Zayed Road

Interchange No. 7

Roa

Jebel Ali Container Shooting Terminal General CargoClub

Duba

Jebel Ali Port Arco

Extrusion Plant Gulf Oilrelated DUGAS Industries Water TowerBottling Plant

His Highness the Ruler’s Garden

loa

H

Industries

ting Club

Hassah Palace

Air Products

Arco The Resort Golf Course

Jebel Ali Harbour Hassah Marina

Jebel Ali Port

Hassah Palace

Oilrelated

Shi

Dubai Cart Club

Hassah Marina

Air Products The Resort Sheikh Zayed Rd. His Highness Golf Course the Ruler’s Garden Water Tower Jebel Ali Information Bureau Shoo

Al

Dubai Cart Club

Sheikh Zayed Rd. Information Bureau

dd

Abu Dhabi

The Fronds

Na

Jebel Ali Harbour Abu Dhabi

The Crescent

h Palm Jumeirah The Fronds

d

Up Town

Roa

Riviera

Up Town

Ain

G

1

The World

ARABIAN A G RUAL BF I A N G U L F

Palm Jebel Ali

Down Town

Dub ai Al

Down Town

Interchange HC51 Interchange No.2

International City Liwa

n

Resident (Medium De

Residentia land l Dubai (Medium Density) Residences Academic City Dubai Outlet Mall Complex Duba

5

6

7

8

9

10

8

9

10

Palm Deira

Mina Rashid Academy Dubai Maritime City

Port Rashid

Palm Mall, Palm Deira

Al Ra

Al Hamriya Port

Central Post Office Al Maktoum Bridge

Al Nasar

a’abel ndabout

m Um

hor (2)

nd

Al Hamm

Al Sidd

Abu Hail Road

qe Road

mo Ra

ar Road

Nadd

Nadd ma Sham

Al Nahda (2) Al Qusais (1)

Ras

r (2)

Al Twa

Al iya a Muh hid aisn Madin Ras (1) ah Badar

ad

Ro

Nadd Al Hamar

Mirdif

60

Al

ad Ro

(1)

Al Warqaa (2)

a arqa ai Al W Mall Dub Great Dubai Hatta Front Hotel Al Warqaa InternationalDesign (3) Centre Hatta / Oman City

mi Road Aade

rt ma on lex ag mp Co

India Mart

Dr

Warsan (2)

6

Al Warqaa (4)

Abattoir and Cattle Market

Al Qusais Ind. Area (3) Al Qusais Ind. Area (4) Al Rashidiya Road

Lu Lu Muhaisnah Village (3)

Public Transport Agency

Al Quasis Road

Al Quasis Labour Accomodaition

Al M

izhar

(1)

Mushrif National Park

Solid Waste Dumping Area

Sharjah

d Al

Ou

eena

Mut har (2)

Mushrif Park & Zoo

Al Qusais (5) Ind. Area

Muhaisnah (2)

ad j Ro ee

es irat Em

an aw

Interchange HC50

Kh

Ras Al Khor nd. Area (3)

zar Al Mam Park

Al Nahda (1)

Al Qusais (3)

iya hid

Al

ar

Al Qusais (2)

Airport TunnelRoad

Ham

Nad Nadd Shamma Park

mz

zar Al Mam h Beac

Al Ahli Club

Al Twar Road

ates Emir nes Airli

d

d

ar Roa

d Al

2

Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority

Al Ma

Al Shahab Club

Dubai Folklore Theatre Society

Road

Roa Road &

Al Badia Community

The Lagoons

Al Twar

1

Dubai Airport International

Umm Transport RamoolAuthority

Festival Waterfront Centre

Road

Al Wuheida

z An r Al Ho East

d

Road

Terminal

Road

Al Khaleej

Etisalat Office Al Rasheed Road

Roa

Terminal

Arrival

ort

Al Khawaneej

Airp

Al Garhoud

Festival Centre

Dubai Festival City

Opera

Dubai Centre Flower Cargo Village t Airporty Securi Dept.

Dubai Aviation College

Dubai Aviation Club

Cross ess Bay ing Bridg e

Abu Hail

Hor Al Anz

Al Twar Road

Creek Golf & Yatch Club

Garhoud Bridge

Culture Village Busin

d

Al Ittihad Road

Al Nadha

Al Jaddaf

Roa

Al Khabisi huddin

Airline Centre

Floating Bridge

Gre Sideek Park

si club

eed

Sala

Clock Tower

Al Mamzar

bel (1)

Al Rash

utee na

sais

Al M

21

Road

Al l Road Karama Za’abe

Al Wuheida Road

s

20 Trade Centre

Al Kifaf Za’abel Park a’abel Park

Al Qu

Al afiliya

Al Shin dagh Tunn el a

Al mina

Al udaiba

(1)

ai y ks

Al Mamzar Road

ai Marina

Al Miz

waneej Al kha nt) (Reside

Sharjah

Mushrif Park

Mushrif Water Reservior

(1) waneej Al kha

Al Warqaa (5)

7

10

11

12

13

14

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

10

11

12

13

14