MARCH / APRIL / MAY 2015
ART SEASON 18
Watercolour, oil, photo or sculpture – it’s all on display in the city
ALL ABOUT BOOKS 28
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature promises to be another real page turner
FASHION FORWARD
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Grab your front row seat to discover what’s en trend for the coming season
published by motivate
senior assignments editor
MAR – MAY 2015
art director
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ingrid valles po john marsland
publisher
chris capstick
regional manager rami rahman rami@motivate.ae for dtcm
director of communications
charlie taylor ctaylor@dubaitourism.ae
director of media and advertising
moza al youha myouha@dubaitourism.ae
chief editor
kerry baggott kbaggott@dubaitourism.ae
ART
PHOTOGRAPHY
The region’s biggest art fair returns to Dubai. Are you ready for the colourful downpour?
We take a look at some stunning photos of Dubai through the ages, captured by renowned photographers
overseas offices
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brazil and south america
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dtcm china (guangzhou)
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LITERATURE CELEBRATIONS The successful Emirates Airline Festival of Literature returns with a cultural addition, the Dubai Writers’ Centre
It’s your big day - so head to Dubai to get the party in full swing
dtcm china (shanghai)
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france and benelux
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hong kong
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india
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kingdom of saudi arabia (jeddah)
40 44 48 52 TOURS
RACING
MUSEUMS
FASHION
Take a trip on a tricycle, by helicopter, sea plane or opentopped bus
Dubai’s racing season is off to a blazing start with the horse, camel and dhow races on
A look at some of the emirate’s lesser-known museums and historical sites
The latest fashion news and style collections at Fashion Forward Season 5
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kingdom of saudi arabia (riyadh) riyadh@ dubaitourism.ae
nordic countries dtcm_sca@ dubaitourism.ae
north america dtcm_usa@ dubaitourism.ae
russia, cis and baltic states dtcm_cis@ dubaitourism.ae dtcm_rus@ dubaitourism.ru
elsewhere
4 CALENDAR This season’s events revealed. Got your tickets? 6 NEW AND NOW New outposts, offerings and openings 8 ABOUT TOWN Keep up with what’s on and what’s in
10 EXPLORE Satwa and all that it offers 15 #MYDUBAI Dubai through the eyes of its creative residents
south africa
16 #MYDUBAI POSTS Candid moments captured in the emirate
switzerland and austria
66 A LOOK AHEAD Plan your next few months
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dtcm_ch@ dubaitourism.ae
u.k. and ireland dtcm_uk@ dubaitourism.ae
61 CORPORATE News from DTCM
ON THE COVER Illustration by john marsland
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MARCH [2015]
host a variety of workshops, seminars, live shoots and even competitions from 6-13 March.
Stroll through the massive grounds at Global Village to experience food, entertainment and shopping from around the world. With 70 participating countries packed in more than 36 colourful pavilions, over 50 fun-filled rides and games, plus food that spans over a dozen cuisines, we guarantee you will be spoilt for choice. Global Village runs until 11 April.
The sleek Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC), Mina Seyahi transforms into a playground for the rich as the world’s biggest marine exhibitors come together for the Dubai International Boat Show from 3-7 March. With a classic showcase of yachts, super yachts and even super cars, this is touted as one of the most important and established event of its kind in the region.
Spread out a blanket on the lush lawns, dine at the VIP stands or party to the beats in the tent as the world’s best polo teams battle it out for the top position. Embrace the written word in all its glory as leading authors from around the world converge on Dubai for the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature from 3-7 March. See page 28 for details. Multi-platinum selling singer and songwriter Ed Sheeran performs for the very first time in the UAE at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. The 5 March gig is part of his ‘X’ Album World Tour.
Polo, picnic and party come together during the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (Gold Cup) competition at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club at the Arabian Ranches from 23 February – 13 March.
APRIL [2015] Around 700 young and professionally-trained swimmers from around the globe make a splash at the 5th Dubai International Swimming Championships from 1-4 April at the Hamdan Sports Complex.
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Hailed as the modern day Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble is set to perform at Dubai Sports City on 12 and
Get snap happy with Gulf Photo Plus as the world’s most talented photographers fly into Dubai to share their knowledge and experiences. Dubai Knowledge Village Conference Centre will
It’s time to update your gadget cache as GITEX Shopper (Spring Edition) 2015 hits the city from 1-4 April. The exclusive deals and fantastic bundle offers make this event one of the most coveted and not-to-be-missed. Harry, Liam, Zayn, Louis and Niall set the stage on fire this April with the One Direction – On the Road Again Tour 2015. The
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teen pop phenomenon make their Middle East debut on 4 April at the Sevens Stadium. The 2nd Dubai International Open Water Swimming Championships are from 6-7 April. Spectators can look forward to several national and international teams competing in sprint relays and long races as well. Venue to be announced.
13 March. His concert will be a magical evening of jazz music covering festive songs and other classics such as Something Stupid and Love Me Tender.
The British stand-up comedian brings out the hilarity of everyday annoyances with his very English sense of humour on 19 March at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Exclusive new restaurants, world-class chefs, cooking classes, incredible music and tantalising fresh foodie features form the line-up at this year’s Taste of Dubai. Fulfill all your
Whether you’re planning to tie the knot or not, Bride Dubai is a not-to-be-missed exhibition. There’s loads of advice and accessories to ensure the perfect wedding, shop from over 200 international and regional wedding and bridal stores; indulge in high tea experiences and even get professional makeovers by hair and beauty experts. From 25-28 March at Dubai World Trade Centre. Turn to page 34 for more on weddings in Dubai.
food fantasies and cravings from 12-14 March at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. Bon Apetit! Dubai’s artistic excellence comes to the fore as the city preps up for the dynamic Dubai Art Season bringing a plethora of exhibitions, projects and events. The UAE’s most important cultural showcase, its highlights include Art Dubai, Global Art Forum 9, Design Days Dubai and SIKKA 2015. See page 18 for details. Can grumpiness be an art? Find out with the ‘grumpy’ Jack Dee Live in Concert.
Make a splash at the 3rd Dubai Junior Water Polo Championships. Local and international clubs will meet at the Hamdan Sports Complex from 8-11 April. Watch the ‘ships of the desert’ thunder down the race tracks as the Dubai Camel Racing Season (Final Race) kicks in from 5-16 April. Turn to page 44 for more.
M AY [2015] Step back in time with the Al Gaffal Traditional Dhow Race 2015. Held in honour of the pearl divers who were central to Dubai’s development as a trading port, the race promises some great action, plus fantastic views of crisp sails blazing over crystal waters and azure skies.Turn to page 44 for more.
Celebrate the luxury and royal heritage of polo with British Polo Day (Dubai edition) on 28 March at Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches. Attended by royalty and VIPs, this quintessential British day out offers fine dining and, of course, thrilling polo. The spectacular Meydan Racecourse once again takes centre stage when it hosts the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup 2015, on 28 March. Not to be missed. Turn to page 44 for more.
Comics, film and gaming unite at the Middle East Film and Comic Con – the region’s largest pop cultural fest from 9-11 April. Last year’s event saw celebs such as Sylvester McCoy (Dr. Who and The Hobbit) and Seth Green (Robot Chicken) in attendance. Fashion Forward 2015 makes a comeback from 10-12 April with a showcase of vivid designs,
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informative talks and engaging panel discussions and workshops. Turn to page 52 for more. The exclusive and elite equestrian sport of dressage sees another year of splendid performances as part of the Dubai Dressage Championship 2015. The event takes place at the Emirates Equestrian Centre from 13-14 April.
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new and now eat
sleep
manzil downtown
sheraton grand hotel
It’s adjacent to The Dubai Mall; has splendid views over the Burj Khalifa; wellappointed suites; state-ofthe-art fitness centre and swimming pool - Manzil Downtown Dubai has just made staying at the city’s most prestigious square mile
Raffles Garden
refines outdoor Arabic dining with its plush open-air cabanas set over Wafi Mall’s rooftop. Luxuriate in intimate settings, panoramic views of
café culture
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in Downtown Dubai more inviting. al-manzil-hoteldubai.com Sheraton Hotels and Resorts has opened its first new build in 30 years in the form of the Sheraton Grand
damac maison cour jardin
The 54-storey tower houses luxurious guestrooms, suites and serviced apartments, in addition to a comprehensive business centre, Shine Spa for Sheraton, rooftop pool and three restaurants and lounges. sheratongranddubai.com
Hotel Downtown Dubai.
expansive gardens and the magnificent Eye of Horus glass centrepiece against the backdrop of Dubai’s stunning skyline. raffles.com
CHIC Cavalli Caffe Cavalli Caffè has launched at The Beach with all the traditional strokes of owner and worldrenowned designer Robert Cavalli.
Barbecues burn all year round at
Absolute Barbecues.
Head here for smoky food flavours and chargrilled dishes – all indoors. Each table has its own cooking
It offers coffees, desserts and signature dishes created by a team of chefs from all over the world. facebook.com/ CavalliCaffeDubai
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station where diners can choose a selection of meat, seafood and vegetables cooked for themselves. facebook.com/ absolutebarbecue
COSY Shakespeare and Co. The bard’s vintage couches and crockery are on service at the Ibn Battuta Mall. The Victorian-inspired
There’s a flow of new outposts, openings and offerings making their way to Dubai. Here’s just a sample selection
eat
sleep
em sharif
soho grill
Business Bay recently welcomed the contemporary Damac Maison Cour Jardin
hotel into its buzzing district. Alongside plush serviced hotel apartments – with a choice of one, two or threebedroom suites perfect for both corporate and holiday
Beirut’s Em Sherif has now made its Dubai debut. Reminiscent of an antique Lebanese mansion, the opulent restaurant overlooks the Dubai Fountains and lofty Burj Khalifa.
café culture
pullman
travellers – all-day dining is available at Segafredo Zanetti, while ‘me time’ awaits at the hotel’s Chrysalis Spa. damacmaison.com Accor’s upmarket hotel brand, Pullman, has opened its second property in the UAE, at
Expect attentive service, delectable appetisers, mains and desserts that are truly divine. emsherif.com Urban eatery SoHo Grill marked its
joint offers soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta, pizza, and heartier dishes, such as tender lamb shank, served with vegetables and rice. shakespeare-andco.com
opening at Wasl Vita Mall with the launch of its NYC Falafel Burger, served with mint yoghurt, tahini and secret SoHo sauce. Other menu items include
CASUAL Karak House This new homegrown Emirati concept cafe on Sheikh Mohammed Boulevard has been wooing customers with its modern
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Jumeirah Lake Towers. Spread across 35 floors, take your pick of one, two and three bed suites, plus exec, superior and deluxe rooms and serviced apartments. We particularly like the Italian restaurant and roof-top pool. pullmanhotels.com
SoHo Dawg, a choice of lamb and beef, accompanied with spicy chakalaka sauce; premium cut steaks; grass-fed, and tender Wagyu. sohogrill.ae
take on traditional favourites. Try the sumac baby chicken with pistachio labneh and red velvet luqaimat with date and cream cheese. Beverages include
the quintessential karak chai as well as twists like karak frappe and karakstyle lemon iced tea. 04 5516852
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don sankey workshop garderobe
ultimate
about town shop: Garderobe
The stylish store on Beach Road sells Chanel, Hermes, Gucci, Prada and YSL. Peruse rail upon rail of handpicked pre-owned shoes, handbags and clothes. The store’s team ensures that all items are authentic and in pristine condition. garderobe.ae
learn: Jewellery Making Join British expat Don Sankey in his workshop and learn how to make your own jewellery in silver and gold. Don provides all the required materials and
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equipment. Held in various locations across the city. dssilversmith.com
compete: ULTIMATE Ultimate is an exciting, non-contact team sport that mixes the best features of football, basketball, American football and netball. Ultimate players require an unmatched degree of speed, stamina and agility, but it’s easy for newcomers too. Ultimate players meet at Zabeel and Safa Park regularly. ultimatejunkiesdubai.com
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pacha ibiza dubai
born to move
escape quest
From shopping and gastronomy to entertainment and the arts, Dubai is brimming with cultural experiences. Take a look at what’s on offer discover: Born To Move Atlantis Kids Club has launched a brand new Born To Move exercise programme for kids between the ages of six and 12. The fun and energetic schedule includes games, dancing and a variety of activities. atlantisthepalm.com
listen: Day Party Tunes Pacha Ibiza Dubai has announced its monthly day party series on the club’s rooftop. DJs Marc Marshall and Rico and violinist Nico promise to
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energise and uplift guests with their ‘spring’ beats. With a strictly white dress code, the White Day Party begins at 2pm and continues until after dark. pacha.ae
experience: Escape Quest This challenge of brainpower, logic and teamwork will see you and your friends locked in a room – the aim being to escape using as few clues as possible in one hour. Based in Jumeirah Lake Towers. escapequest.ae
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Just before the soaring towers of Sheikh Zayed Road begin, lies the unpretentious district of SATWA, which marks the end of ‘old’ Dubai and the beginning of the supersized modern city beyond. The resident population is a vibrant mix of Arab, Indian, Filipino and a smattering of European residents. Satwa’s cultural plurality finds reflection in the eclectic selection of dining joints sleep
eat
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Holiday Inn Express Jumeirah
In close vicinity of Union House, Holiday Inn Express comes with all the trappings of a modern hotel. Rooms are well appointed, there’s free Wi-Fi and even complimentary shuttles to Jumeirah Open Beach. Kids eat free at some of the hotel’s restaurants. www.hiexpress.com
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discover
Ravi Restaurant
If you’re in Dubai and haven’t eaten at Ravi’s, your vacation is surely incomplete. Consistently packed, this Dubai institution serves the best Pakistani fare in town: chicken tikka, chicken kadai, nihari and dal makhani are standouts. 04 3315353 2
Pars Iranian Kitchen
Another Satwa favourite, Pars 2 Ramada Jumeirah Hotel doles out authentic Iranian cuisine. It scores with friendly Winner of the MENA Travel service and the use of the freshest Awards 2014 Best Business/ ingredients available. Try the Corporate Hotel, Ramada
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Bespoke Tailoring
Satwa is known for its rows of textile, haberdashery and tailoring shops. Buy your choice of fabric from Regal (04 3449092) or Deepa’s (04 3494434), trimmings from Fida (04 3444008) or Nippur (04 3492446) and then head to Al Ettifaq (04 3422900) or Coventry Tailors (04 3447563) where they’ll be happy to sew it any style you want. 2
BookWorld
Bookworld has everything from old Viz annuals to the latest beach
SATWA ROAD
DID YOU KNOW…
Take a stroll down this noisy, chaotic street and persue a range of fabrics, Indian and Pakistani sweets like the gulab jamun, jelabi and halwa, or bargain homewares and clothes for all occassions. Raoof Sweet Restaurant (04 344 3184) has a fine selection of sweetmeats.
Until December 2011, 2nd December Street Satwa’s main arterial road - was called Al Diyafah Street. The name was changed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to mark the UAE’s Nationl Day.
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SATWA FACTS Satwa was the subject of Dubai-based filmmaker Mahmoud Kaabour’s critically acclaimed Satwa Stories, a spoken photo novel made in 2008 . It highlighted the area’s characteristics and best secrets ahead of what was - at that time - an impending demolition of the neighbourhood to make way for a new development called Jumeirah Garden City.
sleep Jumeirah offers a variety of rooms and suites, perfect for both the business traveller and holidaying family. With a gym, rooftop pool, beauty salon and spa. ramadajumeirah.ae 3
Jumeirah Rotana Dubai
Don’t be misled by the name – Jumeirah Rotana is actually located in Satwa. Accommodation is spacious and reasonable. Facilities include free shuttles to Jumeirah Open Beach and access to a private beach for a nominal charge. rotana.com 4
Chelsea Plaza Hotel
Right next to the Satwa Roundabout, Chelsea Plaza puts you at the heart of the action. Most rooms have views over the bustling streets below. The threestar hotel also has six restaurants, including Italian Il Rustico and British pub St. Andrews. crimsonhotels.com 5
The H Hotel
Just a kilometre away from Satwa The H Hotel offers the best of old and new Dubai. The exclusive hotel draws inspiration from Arabic influences. Gourmands will be happy to know multi awardwinning contemporary Japanese restaurant Okku is housed here. h-hotel.com 12
eat Pars Special set menu for a quick and delectable introduction to Persian delicacies. The cream puffs are highly recommended too. 04 398 8787 3
Noodle Bowl
Noodle Bowl is a cheap and cheerful South East Asian food joint. Thai staples, crisp salads and steamed seafood mains are the highlights of the menu, made better with generous portions. The bbq duck congee, laksa and sticky rice in banana leaf are must-haves. 04 3453382 4
Mannaland Korean Restaurant
If you’re craving cuisine from Korea, head to Mannaland, a simple eatery that serves authentic Korean fare. Regular diners here rave about the kimchi jeon(pickle pancake) and beef and chicken hotpots. 04 3451300 5
Al Mallah
Al Mallah has a reputation as one of the city’s best Lebanese restaurants. The shawarmas are succulent as are the grilled koftas and kebabs. Add in fresh Arabic mezze all washed down with freshly-squeezed juices, and you’ll have dined like a king – for under Dhs100. 04 3984723
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discover read, unused books, stationery and posters to buy or rent. facebook. com/DubaiBooks 3
Thrifty Shopping
One of Dubai’s lesser-known malls, Al Ghazal, is home to Swedish jewellers Pilgrim, Adidas, Better Homes, Claire’s, Giordana, La Senza and Pure Gold among others. 04 3451435 4
Iranian Architecture
The Iranian Mosque (next to the Iranian Hospital) is renowned for its elaborate architecture. Although non-Muslims are not permitted inside, you can admire its soaring minarets from outside. Its most striking characteristic is its outer walls of azure blue coloured faience tiles embellished with intricate floral motifs. 5
Union House
Marked by a massive 123m flagpole, Union House is where the story of the UAE began. On 21 December 1971, the rulers signed a declaration that brought into effect a temporary constitution and established the independent state of the United Arab Emirates. Union House will soon be revamped into Union Museum to showcase the country’s journey from the preunion era to the present.
A LEVEL ABOVE BREATHTAKING
Soaring high at 555 meters, At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY is fittingly Dubai’s most iconic destination. You can now enjoy exclusive access to the redefined, highest outdoor observatory in the world, spread across levels 125 and 148 of the Burj Khalifa. With dedicated lounges, elevator access and complimentary refreshments, you will be personally escorted through stunning views and never seen before interactive experiences.
#TouchTheSky www.atthetop.ae
globalvillage.ae #GlobalVillage
A world of entertainment awaits you.
Welcome to Global Village, the largest open-air cultural and entertainment venue in the Middle East. Enjoy world-class live performances. Revel in thrilling acts. Savour delectable cuisine from over 40 countries. Collect interesting curios. Try over 60 exciting rides. And take home memories that will stay with you for a long, long, time. Visit www.globalvillage.ae for show timings and latest updates. Open throughout the week, 4pm onwards.
MAKE YOUR SENSES COME ALIVE GlobalVillageAE
Exclusive Soft Drinks Partner
@GlobalVillageAE
Exclusive Banking Partner
GlobalvillageAE
Insta
@GlobalVillageUAE
Exclusive Water Partner
#GlobalVillage
Exclusive Juice Partner
Exclusive Ticketing Partner
Media Partners
6 November 2014 to 11 April 2015
Whizzing around town with Maz My most recent find in Dubai Salt, a funky outdoor gourmet food van that has become a quirky attraction on Kite Beach.
For boutique shopping at its best West LA and Valleydez in Sunset Mall. The Mall in general has some really cool alternative stores. From formal wear to casual and work wear – you’ll find some great gems there!
The last place I shopped at My regular makeup stop, Sephora at The Dubai Mall. I love the variety.
For quiet time Tom & Serg because it has amazing coffee and a great atmosphere.
maz hakim is an Australian radio DJ & international presenter who moved to Dubai in 2014 when she was given the opportunity to host her own show (Non Stop Hits with Maz) on Virgin Radio Dubai. Originally from Afghanistan, Maz trained at the Australian Film and Television Radio School in Australia and her love for both eastern and western cultures brought her to Dubai. start your day by doing some yoga on the incredible Jumeirah Corniche or go for a very zen walk on Kite Beach. Next, drive to Downtown Dubai for breakfast at Clinton Street Baking Company - the eggs Benedict Florentine with sweet potato chips and skimmed latte are simply superb! if i had only 24 hours to explore dubai i would begin my morning with a walk along the beach at JBR. I’d have breakfast at Eggspectation then head to Madinat Jumeirah, which is the perfect epitome of what Dubai is – a fusion of east and west. Next stop would be a walk into a cobblestone maze at Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood. Miracle Garden, where everything is made of flowers, is next. All this walking would make me hungry, so I would drop by Afghan Khorasan in Al Quoz to have some kebabs with mint and yoghurt dip. From there I’d head to the Burj Khalifa to see this amazing tower up close and watch the spectacular fountain show. Then I’d put on a pair of heels and head to White Dubai at Meydan, Dubai’s most brilliant party spot. i would stay at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which has a stunning view of the Burj Al Arab and the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf. an unforgettable place for me is Qbara restaurant. The food is the highlight. It’s traditional with all of your usual favourites, but has changed with time to accommodate the modern taste. Qbara is not a restaurant; it’s more of an experience. show off by taking my friends and family to Zabeel Saray Talise Spa. It’s a luxurious experience that’s a must-do in Dubai. most people don’t know this but The Farm at Al Barari is an oasis of lush greenery and botanical gardens. The ambience is relaxed and serene, perfect for a lazy afternoon.
aptitude
In Dubai without a holiday itinerary? Check out our favourite apps to help you navigate your way around this 24-hour city.
global village dubai Provides information on attractions, deals and in short, what’s happening at the village. Free. iPhone.
uber Request a ride using this app and get picked up within minutes. On-demand service means no reservation. iTunes.
dubai airport Check out flight schedules, airline offices, duty free shopping and more. Free. Android and iPhone.
dubai is a great place for radio because it appeals to everyone. Music binds us all. Whether you are an Arab, Brit, Indian, Filipino or Russian – music is universal.
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@a.55555
@abbeysadventure
#MyDubai
@ahmadaljallaf
Since the launch of the initiative by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, to create the world’s first autobiography of a city, over 2.5 million residents and visitors of the emirate have used the hashtag MyDubai. Here are some of our favourite posts. Join in and share your stories by posting to #MyDubai on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. @chriznobsi
@atthetopburjkhalifa @banatzayed
@ak2012 @aliadawoodstudio
@cairue
@erangatrox
@jozefins
@pkaya11
@hudabinr @poeticwordvomit
@skydive _ dubai @surfistatomato
@timmi273
@rashedmf
Illustration by: John Marsland
Art & Culture
The region’s biggest art fair returns to Dubai. Are you ready for the colourful downpour?
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If you thought art in a Gulf country was all about calligraphic curls and twirls and camels in deserts, it’s time you gained a new perspective. And there’s no better time and place to do this than during Dubai Art Week from 14-25 March. The most dynamic time in the UAE’s cultural calendar, special events include Art Dubai, Design Days Dubai, SIKKA and Galleries Night. Whether you’re a complete novice and have never set foot in an art gallery before or you’re an aficionado and can name an artist by the strokes of the brush, Art Week will leave you impressed. art dubai Get acquainted with the world’s best artists – both new and established – at the massive Art Dubai fair from 18-21 March, hosted at the elegant Madinat Jumeirah. This year the exhibition is presenting a line-up of 90 galleries from around the world. The displays are divided into three parts: Contemporary, Modern and Marker. Kate Fowle, chief curator of Garage Museum of Art in Moscow and director-at-large at Independent Curators International, is the guest curator at Art Dubai Contemporary. She and Art Dubai’s selection committee have this year filled the halls with works from the world’s most influential galleries and dynamic young art spaces.
At Art Dubai Modern you’ll find modern art from the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, presented by regionally and internationallybased galleries, all handpicked by renowned curators and art historians, such as Savita Apte, Catherine David and Bisi Silva amongst others. The Marker section represents Art Dubai’s commitment to cultural diversity and history, and this year is focussed on Latin America. With some of the most influential and important artworks from the region forming part of the exhibition, you’ll enjoy the rare opportunity to see and learn about the culture of the Latin Americans and the connections between this region and the Arab world. artdubai.ae
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO A R T
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art on air
Tune in to the free digital radio station that will run throughout the duration of Art Week. Listen to interviews with local and international artists and curators as well as special art sound projects. artdubai.ae/radio
Art Dubai Public Days: Thursday 19 March 4pm-9:30pm / Friday 20 March 2pm-9:30pm / Saturday 21 March 12pm-6:30pm at Madinat Jumeirah One-Day Pass: Dhs50 / Three-Day Pass: Dhs80 Children 18 years old and under free of charge.
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Art & Culture
LOOK OUT FOR sikka art fair Held during Art Week, the annual Sikka Art Fair embraces artistic talent and culture in the UAE. Pop into one of the beautiful wind-tower houses at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and be inspired by an artist at work; see a sculpture come to life or watch the latest creation from some of the UAE’s up-andcoming filmmakers. Children can attend storytelling sessions, painting and cooking workshops and even learn song writing. Adults can sign up for activities like
shadow puppet creation, stencilling, origami, hand weaving and smartphone photography. Participation is free of charge; however registration is required for workshops due to limited seating. dubaiculture.gov.ae galleries nights Art galleries across the city will host late-night openings of new exhibitions as part of Galleries Nights, which also sees performances by local musicians and other celebrations of art taking place across town. The events
take place in more than 40 galleries in Al Quoz and Dubai InternationalFinancial Centre during Art Week. design days dubai Looking for one-of-a-kind decor for your home? Running from 16-20 March. Design Days Dubai is the Middle East and South Asia’s leading fair dedicated to collectible and limited edition furniture and design objects. Plus there’s an eclectic mix of workshops, installations and live performances to enjoy. designdaysdubai.ae
THE ART AVENUE
the art ride If you are in the city during Art Week, take a trip on the Art Bus, a shuttle that provides guided tours of the city’s prominent galleries, studios, art centres, alternative art spaces and art fairs. artbus@ artinthecity.com
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A treasure trove of creativity awaits art lovers in Alserkal Avenue Tucked away in the gritty Al Quoz industrial area, among a complex of warehouses and workshops, sits Alserkal Avenue, billed as one of the city’s prime cultural addresses. Running along this cul-de-sac are 20 contemporary art galleries, each one with its own distinct identity and each one promoting its own individual artistic programme. The district is home to prominent names such as Ayyam Gallery, Carbon 12, Gallery Isabelle Van Den Eynde, Green Art Gallery, Grey Noise, Lawrie Shabibi and La Galerie Nationale amongst others. It also boasts an alternative arts space through Satellite, which serves as a platform to support artists in residence, while other creative groups, such as Gulf Photo Plus, FN Designs, Mojo and Showcase, enrich the district with an exciting roster of workshops, talks and community events. alserkalavenue.ae TOP THINGS TO DO IN ALSERKAL AVENUE 1. Meet exhibiting artists at Galleries Night, running during Art Week 2. Attend the Quoz Arts Festival Programme every November 3. See local and internationally acclaimed musicians play at The Fridge 4. Attend the on-going Young Collectors Auction at Ayyam Gallery (ayyamgallery.com) 5. See the only private museum in Dubai with Ramin Salsali’s private collection on show
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fol low t h e a rt trail with such a burgeoning a rt scene and dozens of g aller ies mushrooming acros s the cit y, where should you start you r journey of artistic discov ery? cast aside the confusio n a n d just follow our art tra il.
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1 Alserkal Avenue, a cul-de-sac of warehouse spaces in Al Quoz, is home to over 20 contemporary galleries, as well as purpose-built exhibition spaces. alserkalavenue.ae
2 The Archive stocks a range of art books on typography, calligraphy, fashion, design and art history. Activities include cultural workshops on topics like architecture and book-making, film screenings and talks from renowned artists. Located in leafy Safa Park. thearchivedubai. tumblr.com
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Pro Art Gallery offers a selection of one-of-a-kind paintings, affordable limited-edition prints, sculptures and photography from a wide range of artists. Pro Art is located at Palm Strip Mall, near Jumeirah Mosque. proartuae.com
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Mawaheb is the Arabic word for ‘talented’. Crafted by adults with special needs, the creations at Mawaheb are an expression of their personalities and aspirations – something they might not be able to express through words. Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Mawaheb is sure to touch your heart. mawaheb-dubai.com
5 Nestled in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, The Majlis Gallery is the oldest art space in Dubai. Hosting numerous solo and group exhibitions, the gallery has been responsible for introducing many of the region’s finest artists. themajlisgallery.com
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opera gallery
TAKE 2
Carbon 12 and Opera Gallery talk to us about their participation in Art Dubai. What kind of work is on display at your gallery? C12: Carbon 12 has a comprehensive, firmly global programme of institution-grade artists. That means you can see shows by artists who are internationally exhibited in museums and biennials and discover high level professional artworks according to the best international standards. Opera: We specialise in two different types of art. We sell contemporary masters such as Miro, Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, as well as international contemporary and modern art.
carbon 12
Will you have any special activities during Art Dubai? C12: Carbon 12 is now taking part for the 6th consecutive time in Art Dubai, and like every year, we will debut a new artist. This year we have a major exhibition at the gallery with Anahita Razmi. Opera: During Art Dubai, we will be hosting a solo show for legendary Argentinian artist Antonio Segui. The 82-year-old artist has created some paintings specifically for the local market, and we are thrilled to have him in the city during the art infused month of March!
ART VIA METRO
Take the Dubai Metro Red Line to get to these three galleries:
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FINANCIAL CENTRE
RIRA GALLERY GOOD FOR: works by established
and emerging Iranian artists
INFO: Gate Village 3, DIFC
(04 369 9339)
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NOOR BANK
J+A GALLERY GOOD FOR: Bauhaus pieces and
industrial antique furniture from the 1920s INFO: Street 4a, Al Quoz 1 (04 338 9773)
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JUMEIRAH LAKE TOWERS
ARSH ART GALLERY GOOD FOR: contemporary works
from regional artists
INFO: Indigo Icon Tower, JLT
(04 420 3471)
Photography
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This image shows how much things have changed over decades. Back in the 1960s, falconers were a common sight in the souk, proudly taking their prized birds around town. -Dubai 1962, Yoshio Kawashima
LIFE THROUGH A LENS We take a look at some stunning photos of Dubai through the ages, captured by renowned photographers
On first seeing the cutting-edge metropolitan city of Dubai with its forest of twisting skyscrapers and labyrinth of highways, it’s almost impossible to comprehend that virtually everything in sight has been built in a single generation. Go back a mere 60 years and Dubai was little more than a fishing village nestled on the side of the Creek. A collection of wind-towers and barasti huts made up the accommodation; traders plyed their wares in the souks and wooden dhows ladened with cargo docked creekside. Pearl diving and fishing was the life blood of the city and the modern amenities enjoyed by the rest of the world went largely unrecognised. While the museums at Shindagha and Al Fahidi give a fascinating insight into this bygone era, it is the black and white photographs that capture it so well. d u b a i
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Photography
Noor Ali Rashid, who became known as the ‘Royal photographer’ through his accessibility to the ruling families, has recently had his life’s work featured in a major retrospective. The formal photographs of the Sheikhs and their families are complemented in his Lasting Impressions monograph with photographs that are more in tune with a journalistic style, thus truly ‘capturing the moment’.
Noor Ali Rashid enjoyed a special relationship with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founding father of the UAE. Pictured here are Sheikh Zayed and His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. -Lasting Impressions Noor Ali Rashid
The Emirates Golf Club as seen from the air in 1989. Bounded by expanses of desert on all sides, the difference in the surroundings then and now is fantastic, attesting to Dubai’s stellar rise over the years. -25 Years of the Dubai Desert Classic, David Cannon and Rodney Bogg
Turn the pages of the recently published 25 Years of the Dubai Desert Classic - the ‘Classic’ in question being one of the PGA European Tour’s annual golf tournaments – and you see contrasting aerial shots spanning a quarter of a century. What is now the metropolis of towers that surrounds the famous Emirates Golf Club was once nothing more than a barren desert. In his self-effacing biography Taking the High Road, Indian expatriate Ram Buxani, these days a business magnate, recalls the privations of Dubai in the 1960s: no fresh water on tap, no fresh milk and little fresh food. Air conditioning simply did not exist. Equally, Dubai businessman Khalaf Al Habtoor, paints a very different picture of pre-boom Dubai in his recent autobiography, Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor: The Autobiography, where families living in basic palm-frond accommodation on the banks of Dubai Creek would frequently go hungry. How amazing to think that later this year his company will open four new hotels in the eponymous Al Habtoor City.
Ram Buxani with the former Prime Minister of India, the late Indira Gandhi, during her historic visit to Dubai in 1981. -Taking the High Road, Ram Buxani
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Pictured here are men engaged in lively discussion and telling tales of voyages. The tradition of seafarers is kept alive to this day by the dhows anchored on the Dubai Creek. -Dubai 1962, Yoshio Kawashima Virtual tours constructed out of panoramic HD photo shoots from the top of skyscrapers. -Dubai 360 The photographic collections of the adventurer Wilfred Thesiger, the diplomat Ronald Codrai, the aristocrat Patrick Lichfield and the artist Ramesh Shukla chronicle day-to-day life and customs in the emirate at different periods in the last half century or so. Surely one of the most remarkable collections is that of the Japanese photo-journalist Yoshio Kawashima, whose book Dubai 1962 captures daily life in the souk and along the Creek, with the hustle and bustle of the even-then busy streets, to wedding celebrations and his meetings with a very benevolent looking Sheikh Rashid in his majlis. Despite the absence of gleaming tower blocks, the metro or a single shopping mall, Kawashima-san portrays Dubai in all its early iconic glory. Photography also plays its part when it comes to showcasing its modernity. Dubai 360 (360emirates.com), for example, offers a choice of virtual tours constructed out of panoramic HD photo shoots from the top of skyscrapers. Turn to page 64 for more. Meanwhile the #MyDubai initiative invites residents and visitors to record their day-to-day life in the city and tag it online, thus capturing – and sharing – the moment forever. Turn to page 16 for more.
DID YOU KNOW…
the most expensive camera ever sold was a rare 1923 Leica camera which went for $2.8 million at an auction in Vienna.
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Literature
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Dubai’s growing obsession with the written word sees one of the most successful literature festivals take place here each year – and now, thanks to the opening of the Dubai Writers’ Centre, this cultural scene is on tap all year round Are you a budding writer desperate for a break? Or are you simply a lover of books, eager to meet your favourite author? Attending the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature could be your moment. With its inaugural event held in 2009, this annual event has such wide appeal that over 30,000 visitors flock here to meet world-famous authors, attend literary debates, listen to readings, participate in workshops and experience exciting fringe events. Indeed, this event is recognised as one of the leading international literary festivals in the world and each March Dubai’s LitFest (as it is affectionately called) gets bigger and better. This year the event takes place from 3 to 7 March at its usual home of the InterContinental Dubai Festival City hotel. Around 136 authors, thinkers and speakers from 30 countries are lighting up the billboards, providing a packed schedule of more than 200 one-off sessions. Best-selling authors of every genre, whether fiction or documentary, crime or travel, cookery or d u b a i
poetry, fantasy or history, alongside publishers and politicians, book critics and journalists are on hand to provide wide-ranging appeal to everyone. The 2015 programme will welcome a number of best-selling authors, including award-winning David Mitchell, author of Cloud Atlas, which was adapted into a star-studded film; Graeme Simsion, whose first novel, The Rosie Project, became an instant worldwide success leading to an equally successful sequel, plus the award-winning author of The Book Thief Markus Zusak. Celebrities from around the world will be in attendance, including BBC presenter Anita Anand, traveller Charley Boorman, mathematician and scientist Lewis Dartnell, humanitarian Mukesh Kapila, rugby player turned adventurer Richard Parks, Ted Simon of Jupiter’s Travels and David Suchet, the man now synonymous with Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot. emirateslitfest.com 29
@ Brinkoff/Mögenberg
2015 programme highlig ht s • If you haven’t seen the epic production of War Horse, the play currently showing in London’s West End based on the novel by the Children’s Laureate (2003-05) Michael Morpurgo, then this is the next best thing. Morpurgo himself will be appearing alongside his life-size horse puppets, to read extracts from War Horse accompanied by musicians performing some of the most popular songs from the play. • “He has knobbly knees, and turned-out toes, And a poisonous wart at the end of his nose.” Most children (and parents) will know that this is, of course, a description of a gruffalo and at this year’s festival the creator of this famous character, Julia Donaldson, will be on hand to bring her books, including Room on a Broom and Snail and the Whale, to life. • David Walliams, noted comedian and author of Gangsta Granny and Awful Auntie, has won the National Book Awards’ Children’s Book of the Year three years in a row. His work has been translated into 40 languages and his Hippo on the Moon is currently the highest-selling book in the UK. Meet him face-toface and get an insight into this colourful character. • Spend an evening under the stars in the vast Arabian desert – the perfect setting to appreciate poetry and music. Desert Stanzas is the cultural landmark of the festival and takes place in a secluded spot nestled among the sand dunes. The audience will meet renowned international poets while sitting on Bedouin cushions and tucking into an Arabian feast. • New to the festival for 2015 is Fforde’s Fantastic Feedback – a chance to have your own fiction manuscript critiqued by the fantasy writer Jasper Fforde during a 15-minute one-to-one session.
FESTIVAL VENUES 30
Missed the 2015 festival? Well don’t miss next year’s, taking place from 8-12 March 2016!
The main event will be held at the InterContinental Hotel Event Centre, Dubai Festival City. The Opening Night and Desert Stanzas will be off-site.
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WRITERS AND BOOK LOVERS WELCOME ALL YEAR AROUND In an area that’s often referred to as ‘the heart of Dubai’ you’ll find the new Dubai International Writers’ Centre. Housed in a reconstructed wind-tower house beside the bustling Creek and just a few metres from a host of museums, galleries and creekside cafes – including Sheikh Saeed’s House and the Heritage Village – the historic area of Shindagha seems a perfect spot for this new centre, which celebrates the written word all year round. Creative workshops, writerin-residence programmes, film nights, book clubs, recitals
Celebrations of the written word are not just contained to the dates of the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. Now, thanks to the opening of the Dubai International Writers’ Centre, it’s a cultural celebration that never ends.
and lectures are on offer throughout the year. Writers in residence have included the acclaimed travel writer Tim Mackintosh-Smith, while creative writing courses have been headed up by renowned lecturer Jo Wroe. The centre is open every day from 8am and its opendoor policy welcomes all ages, nationalities and interests. As expected from such a multi-cultured city, all genres and languages are covered throughout the year. The comfy majlis (lounges), cosy courtyards and book-lined rooms are the perfect places to d u b a i
inspire creativity, provide the ideal tranquility to meet fellow book worms or budding writers or simply read your book in the on-site café. Take a seat on the rooftop terrace, open your notebook (or laptop – the Wi-fi is free), and drink in the views of the old wind-towers in the foreground and the pinnacle to Burj Khalifa in the distance. This could be the place where that idea for your first (next) novel is unlocked; where that first stanza of your poem is created, or simply where you’ll appreciate the rich heritage and culture of Dubai. diwc.ae 31
Literature
dubai on page A book can take you places. Thumb through these Dubai-based books for a glimpse into the city. Dubai Aerial Tour
THE FOUNDER OF THE FESTIVAL Meet Isobel Abulhoul OBE, CEO of the Emirates Literature Foundation and Festival Director Some seven years ago, Isobel Abulhoul approached Emirates airline asking them to sponsor a literary festival in Dubai. As the founder of Dubai’s well known Magrudy’s book store and having had a long-standing career in publishing, Isobel had some credibility when it came to all things books. Yet, she’d never actually been to a literature festival in her life. “And I’m pleased I hadn’t, because it meant that I could shape the Dubai festival exactly as I wanted to,” she said. Today, Dubai’s Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is considered one of the best literature festivals in the world. “Dubai’s location means that it is so easily accessible from all corners of the world. And of course, Dubai itself is such a magical place,” enthuses Isobel. This magic is one of the reasons why the 2015 theme is ‘Wonderland’. “I really believe that Dubai is a wonderland – it’s a place with so much energy and vitality and is a hub for creativity and innovation. For me wonderland exists in books and Dubai is like an unfolding story. 32
“There is a growing culture of writing in the city and increasingly people are looking for a place to meet each other and exchange ideas – the Festival and now the new Writers’ Centre gives them this place.” Although having spent around 18 months planning the 2015 festival, Isobel is also looking forward to being a visitor herself. “I can’t possibly choose an author I’m most excited about, but if you force my hand I would have to choose Joey and Topthorn, the horse puppets from Michael Morpurgo’s theatrical adaptation of War Horse.” But, of course, it is the success of the festival that truly inspires this literary enthusiast. “Nothing gives me and the team more joy than seeing people excited about books – whether it be meeting their favourite author, a child getting their book signed, discovering a new genre or, through our competitions, encouraging people to put pen to paper or even get their first book deal.” d u b a i
Dubai Aerial Tour showcases the city of Dubai as never before. Through the lens of photographer Wouter Kingma, residents and tourists alike can revisit some of the most popular locations and landmarks in the bustling emirate. The book sweeps up the reader in a fantastic journey through Dubai, capturing everything.
The Gulf Wife Since she first arrived in the Trucial States with her husband, British diplomat Edward Henderson, Jocelyn Henderson has seen the region transform beyond all recognition. The Gulf Wife tells the story of Jocelyn’s remarkable life, her relationships with the families of the ruling Sheikhs, and the people she met along the way.
The Turtle Secret The Turtle Secret tells the story of tenyear-old Hessa and her mission to save the turtles. It touches on subjects that resonate with contemporary readers, such as the local culture and the wildlife of the region, as well as the role of women in Emirati society, reflecting the author’s love for the region and her interest in the social and cultural nuances that define it.
Celebrations
PARTY PALACES
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The Burj al Arab Helipad, an iconic venue to tie the knot
Don’t miss Bride Dubai from 25-28 March at Dubai World Trade Centre for wedding inspiration
It’s your big day – so head to Dubai to get the party in full swing a pristine beach , a glen in the midst of majestic palms, an opulent ballroom, an Arabic marquee or even a yacht – Dubai offers a host of stellar venues for anyone celebrating that special moment, whether it be a wedding reception, an anniversary, a graduation or a milestone birthday. Dubai has a venue to match every occasion, and with those bespoke decorative or catering touches, you can make it your very own. Toast the occasion in a hot air balloon, hire an island in the middle of the Creek or charter a luxury yacht with a group of loved ones, or let the guest of honour be driven straight into a grand ballroom. The choice is all your’s. 35
Celebrations
FAIRY TALE WEDDINGS w he the r yo u r ideal wedding venue i n volv e s a seclu d e d b e ac h or over -the-top g lamour, you can f i n d i t i n du bai . h ere ’ s our pi ck of venues that sim p ly stan d ou t.
prepared for a wedding, atlantis the palm
burj al arab
Touted the world’s most luxurious hotel, it is obvious that the magnificent Burj Al Arab (BAA) tops our dream wedding venue. The iconic hotel is now offering a wedding experience that is literally sky high. Couples can now take their vows on the Burj’s helipad – 212 m above the Arabian Sea. The bride and groom get to arrive at their lofty venue in an Italian twin engine Augusta 109. If they’d prefer to arrive by road, a sleek Rolls Royce Phantom will be at their service. A package at the BAA also gets you dedicated services from the hotel’s wedding ‘architect’, private sessions with personal trainers at the Talise Spa, shopping sessions with the Burj’s in-house stylist and even a specially created wedding day scent developed by a leading perfumist. After-hours access to luxury fashion brands will ensure the bride’s trousseau is in perfect order, and the couple can also avail
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of exclusive access to the city’s top jewellers. Add to this private dance lessons and private consultations with the chef, sommelier and florist. jumeirah.com
dubai equestrian & polo club
If you’ve dreamt of riding off into the sunset with your knight in shining armour, let Dubai Equestrian and Polo Club fulfill that fantasy for you. Hold your ceremony overlooking the Club’s lush polo fields. You can arrive by a romantic horse-drawn carriage capturing those first moments of togetherness against a backdrop of regal stallions – complete fairytale style. For a ceremony under the stars, we highly recommend the Arabic-inspired Saha Courtyard, peppered with gushing fountains and ambient lighting. poloclubdubai.com
dubai marina yacht club
Whisk your loved one away on board a luxury yacht for your special day. Although the
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dubai marina yacht
Club’s luxury yacht, Athena, can accommodate only 14 people, it is perfect for couples who want to share their day only with immediate friends and family. Escape the city and enjoy a romantic sea cruise with gourmet menus plus your very own captain and hostess. For a more elaborate party, the Club’s Al Dana banquet hall can accommodate up to a 100 people, as can the panoramic Rooftop dubai equestrian and polo Garden Terraces. Overlooking the glittering Marina and stunning city skyline, this venue captures back-drop of the fairways, the all the romance and style of Dubai. range can be transformed into dubaimarinayachtclub.com spectacular settings with the help of the Club’s creative events team. dubai creek golf and yacht club arabianranchesgolfdubai.com Its sail-shaped club house has always been an eye-catching atlantis the palm landmark on the Dubai skyline For most people, the exotic Atlantis and now you can combine the resort is something straight out of fantastic view with an even more a fairy tale itself. Whether you’re breathtaking event locale. Marina after a barefoot ceremony on Island, located within the Creek its expansive beach or a society Marina, is one of Dubai’s hidden wedding in one of the ballrooms, gems. Surrounded by water and the event is sure to be magical. ideal for more intimate receptions, Couples can choose from seven the garden venue offers stunning individual venues, ranging from the views of the Yacht Clubhouse and opulent Asateer Ballroom to the city skyline. You can decorate the glittering Asateer Marquee. Those island to any theme you want and looking for something ‘different’ the kitchen is adept at whipping up are welcome to tie the knot within the dish of your day. dubaigolf.com the maze of underground tunnels that form The Lost Chambers offering underwater views into the arabian ranches golf 11 million litre Ambassador Lagoon, club dubai home to 65,000 marine animals. If Even if there isn’t an avid golfer that’s not enough, for brides who in you, the Arabian Ranches Golf want to make an entrance, there’s Club will impress as the venue also a helicopter pad. for your big day. Couples can atlantisthepalm.com hold a formal ceremony in the lavish Baker Finch room (perfect for regal receptions) or on the jw marriott marquis Club’s impressive driving range Rise above the rest with a itself. Featuring an incomparable ceremony at the world’s tallest
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hotel, the JW Marriott Marquis. Soaring above Business Bay and with sweeping views of both old and new Dubai, you can be assured that your wedding pictures will have a backdrop like no other. Marriott’s creative team is fabulous too – in 2013 they created a stunning wedding themed around Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. Some 32 coloured lighting schemes, the largest LCD screen in Dubai and an outstanding sound system were just some of the touches that brought the magical wedding to life. marriott.com dubai creek golf and yacht club
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What would you like to be today? Over 80 professions to choose from!
Get Ready for a Better World! In KidZania, children can understand the world of grown-ups better through activities based on role-playing. A child can become a chef, surgeon, radio host, firefighter and a whole lot more, all in the course of a day. %ULQJ \RXU FKLOGUHQ WR .LG=DQLD /HW WKHP EH DGXOWV IRU D GD\ &LQHPD 3DUNLQJ ‡ 7HO ‡ (PDLO HQTXLULHV#NLG]DQLD DH ‡ ZZZ NLG]DQLD DH ‡ )ROORZ œNLG]DQLDGXEDL¡ RQ
SUITE SENSATION on your special day, you deserve to stay in vip style the royal suite at four seasons resort dubai The Royal Suite at the Four Seasons commands immediate attention with its vast intricately embellished double doors setting the grand and luxurious scene from the outset. Inside, this Royal Suite spans 600sqm, including an extensive marble lobby, grand piano and highly exclusive balcony views. Heightened further by the live station kitchen, private spa and fitness station, media centre, multiple walk-in closets and a total of four bathrooms, guests really are made to feel like royalty when residing there.
discounted spa treatments and complimentary desert activities.
al-maha.com
presidential suite at meydan hotel Stretched across two floors and with floor-to-ceiling windows in the living area, this Presidential suite has direct views of the track at the Meydan Racecourse – the venue for the world’s richest horserace. In fact, you can even witness the races while soaking in a hot bath – all the bathrooms have racetrack views too. Complimentary limousine transfers, butler services and private dining services enhance the experience. meydanhotels.com
presedential suite at meydan hotel
fourseasons.com
al maha desert resort & spa This eco-resort’s Bedouin-themed suites all meld seamlessly into the Arabian Desert but without compromising the luxury quotient. Each suite comes with handcrafted furnishings, its own private dining deck and pool from where you can gaze onto the open desert. The Resort’s Romantic Escape package bestows indulgences like gourmet meals,
Honeymoon Hot List make your honeymoon even more remarkable in dubai with these amazing expereinces. sensual spas Milk and honey baths, roses, candles, soft music and ambient lighting – there’s nothing more romantic than a honeymoon spa experience. The Romance 1001 Roses package at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray’s Talise Spa promises couples true bliss as they step in to their private treatment room complete with Jacuzzi and sauna facilities. jumeirah.com
magical ride Sailing in a hot-air balloon is perhaps the most romantic
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talise spa
form of flying. Glide across Dubai’s deserts, soaking in the magnificence of the golden sands and emerald oases just as the sun appears over the horizon. This is as close as it gets to the magic carpet ride you dreamt of as a child!
ballooning.ae
take the plunge Romance is not always about getting mushy. There are some who prefer gravity defying experiences to seal their love. Hurl yourself from a plane soaring at 13,000ft, taking in the incredible views over Dubai. skydivedubai.ae 39
Tours
Seeing is Believing Sightseeing on foot is so passé, take a tour on a tricycle, by helicopter, sea plane or open-topped bus. The choice is yours
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dubai loves its tourists and appreciates their individuality. That’s why the city offers a number of novel ways through which you can take in its sights and sounds. For those who love speed, why not rent a superbike? Or charter a yacht – perfect for those who like a little privacy as they take in Dubai’s amazing skyline? You can even take to the skies for stunning aerial views over the city. The options are limited only by your imagination.
time to trike
Zip past the city’s landmarks to the beats of your favourite music on Honda Gold Wing 1800 trikes. What’s more, you get a Go-Pro video of your unique journey too. Dubai’s FlyBike Tours offers both rentals and guided, day and night, sightseeing tours on trikes or bikes. You can either strap in with one of its professional drivers or cruise through the city on your own if you have a valid international driving license for those vehicles. FlyBike offers set excursions, including night adventures and the Old and New day tour. The new culturally-rich Sahara tour is a three-hour desert trip that stops at the Camel Racetrack, Camel Market, the desert cycling track and Bab Al Shams Desert Resort. FlyBikes come with an added feel-good experience. You can’t be missed when you are on them! flybike.info
rev through dubai
More intrepid explorers can look forward to canvassing the city on board powerful superbikes. Prestige Motorcycle Tours and Rentals know how empowering and exciting motorcycle rides can be and let you take your holiday to the next level with bikes such as
the Harley-Davidson Road King, Harley Heritage Softail Classic, Honda Goldwing and BMW. The company has a variety of Dubai city tours on offer. Riders have to ride their own bike and are accompanied by a tour guide. Pitstops for meals and coffee are included, plus photographs of your thrilling drive through Dubai. dubaimotorhomerentals.com
ferry through dubai
Dubai’s iconic Dubai Creek and scenic coastline make for a great way to see the city. Marine sightseeing tours offer a unique view of the city’s superb skyline. The Dhs1 Abra ride from Bur Dubai to Deira across the historic Dubai Creek is touted as the most atmospheric way to soak in Dubai’s culture. Or rise above the rest and hire your own private yacht and cruise the Arabian Sea, sailing past Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. Alternatively, the RTA’s Water Ferry, Water Bus and Water Taxi are memorable and economic ways to take a sea tour of Dubai.
sunny side up
Sailing with the Yellow Boats company, you get to see Dubai from an inflatable (and very yellow) boat. Yellow Boats offers a number of different tours, allowing you to take in the sights and take pictures. However, if you feel the need for speed, opt for the Dubai Ultimate Thrill Ride. This is when the skipper shows what the Yellow Boat is capable of. Hold onto your seats – the boat will zip across the water performing a chain of tricks and twists. The Yellow Boats tour lasts up to 90 minutes; each boat holds up to 12 people. theyellowboats.com
hover over dubai
Travel like the rich and famous and fly around in a luxurious helicopter. The rides may last less than 30 minutes but the experience and sights are both unparalleled. d u b a i
FLYBIKE TOURS
essentials: Dubai Ferry sails from two stations: Al Ghubaiba and Marina Station. The trip from Ghubaiba takes you passed Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood, up to the Burj Al Arab. The Dubai Marina trip circuits around Dubai Marina, The Walk and Palm Jumeirah. Tickets start at Dhs50. Children between two and 10 years old pay half. rta.ae
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Tours
Heli Dubai offers a variety of scenic aerial tours: the Heritage Tour follows the meandering Dubai Creek over the imposing wind-towers and souks in the city’s oldest suburbs; the Explorer Tour follows the same course as the Heritage Tour but also includes new wonders such as the Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm and The World amongst others. The Night Lights Tour lets you soak in the dazzling Dubai skyline in all its illuminated glory. helidubai.com
Similarly, City Sightseeing offers great value-for-money tours around Dubai. Its 24-hour ticket includes a complimentary dhow cruise, walking tour of Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood and a RTA Water Bus ticket among others. Guests who buy the 48-hour tour get a free tour to the neighbouring emirate of Sharjah. Get whisked around the world’s most prestigious square kilometre and discover the new heart of the city with The Boulevard Bus Tour. With the specially designed bus, visitors can take clear and unobstructed pictures of the breathtaking sights of Downtown Dubai. At a fantastic price of only Dhs10 for a daily pass, you can hop on and off at your own leisure to discover ‘The Centre of Now’ one icon at a time. eng.bigbustours.com/dubai citysightseeing-dubai.com dubai-bus.com/tag/boulevard-bus-tour
d i d you k n ow ? for ju st dh s2 5 p e r p e r son, you can tak e a wate r bu s ri d e f rom f e sti val ci t y to ras al k h or bi rd san ctuary
sea this!
The waters of the Arabian Gulf become your runway, as you lift off to get a bird’s eye view of Dubai from a luxury seaplane. The exclusive flights yield scintillating views of The World islands, the Burj Khalifa along with the dazzling skyline of twisting skyscrapers, mosques, hotels and beaches. Seawings offers a variety of packages, taking off from either the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club or Jebel Ali Golf Resort. Flights last approximately 40 minutes. seawings.ae
get on the bus
Want to grasp as much as you can when you’re in Dubai? If so, then the city’s various bus tours are the answer to all your wishes. Big Bus’ double-decker, open-top bus tour provides a great introduction to all the important landmarks within Dubai, allowing you to hop on and off at any of the designated stops. Choose from day and night tours on three routes - City, Beach and Marina – allowing you to take in all of Dubai’s landmarks, such as Atlantis The Palm, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah Mosque, The Walk JBR, Marina Quays and Souk Madinat Jumeirah amongst others.
abra
seawings
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
S I G H T S E E I N G
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Wonder Bus is the first and only amphibious-based city tour in the Middle East. The tour lasts for an hour, exploring Dubai’s heritage sites. wonderbusdubai.net
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At the Races
LET THE RACE(S)
BEGIN!
From the raucous camel races to the world’s most expensive horse race, the racing season is off to a blazing start in Dubai
it’s spring! This means that the racing season is upon us in Dubai. It’s a time when some of the most glamorous and exciting races are held across the emirate, each boasting a carnival-like ambience, fabulous prizes, a glamorous social scene and, of course, thrilling races. What’s interesting is that almost all of these races pay tribute to Dubai’s heritage. Arabian horses are celebrated at the
prestigious Dubai World Cup, the agility of the ‘ships of the desert’ – camels – comes to a fore at the camel races, while the dhow (traditional Arabic boat) races are reminiscent of the arduous journey the pearl divers of yore would undertake. So clear your throat for some loud cheering and take to the tracks for the ultimate show of speed and sportsmanship. On your marks, get set, go!
Dubai World Cup each march, since 1996 , the world’s best thoroughbred horses thunder down the tracks in pursuit of the biggest prize on the horseracing circuit. Add to this, tens of thousands of people, in all their finery, who crowd the stands to cheer on the champions. As a year-on-year highlight on the Dubai social calendar, the Dubai World Cup is the culmination of the racing season with the winner picking up a prize of US$10 million. On the day itself, the total prize money is US$29.25 million across a nine-race card. The Dubai World Cup race day features three of the most valuable contests in the world of racing: the US$6 million Dubai Sheema Classic, the US$6 million Dubai Duty Free and the famed US$10 million Dubai World Cup, sponsored by Emirates airline. But Dubai’s World Cup is not just about the horses – it’s about the dressing up, the fizz and the party. Held at the luxurious Meydan Racecourse, all the facilities are on tap for a truly perfect party. A festive atmosphere is created on and off the track, with fine food and drink, exclusive hospitality areas and lots of competitions and entertainment for festival goers. Down in the Apron Views beside the track, the social scene is at full throttle. It’s also here that Dubai’s fashionable race goers battle it out in the prestigious Jaguar Style Stakes where amazing prizes are up for grabs as well as the accolade of being crowned the Best Dressed. The day is capped off in style by an extravagant fireworks show and a post race concert by some of the biggest names in the musical world. Past editions have included performance by British soul and R&B artist Seal and Jennifer Lopez.
Did You Know…? 2015 marks the
Dubai World Cup Essentials Date: 28 March 2015 Venue: Meydan Racecourse Admission: Starts at Dhs25 Info: dubaiworldcup.com
running of the Dubai World Cup
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Al Gaffal Traditional Dhow Race
Did You Know…?
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hundreds of enormous sails billow in the wind as a flotilla of traditional Arabic dhows cut across the azure blue waters of the Arabian Gulf each May. In what is a timeless image of elegance, the sea is scattered with majestic, brilliant white triangular sails as beautiful hand-crafted vessels pay tribute to the region’s pearl diving ancestry in the Al Gaffal races. With the inaugural race held in 1980, Al Gaffal was first held to honour the pearl divers of Dubai. The island of Sir Bu Nair – the customary rest stop of the divers heading home after long periods at sea - was chosen as the starting point of the race. The race begins early in the morning at 6.30am with most dhows crossing the finish line at Burj Al Arab around six hours later.
dhows take part in the race
ESSENTIALS
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Camel racing Much before Dubai was known for its luxury vehicles, super cars and bikes, the humble camel was the only mode of transport the residents had. Known as ‘ships of the desert’, the camels have transported the Bedouin from oasis to oasis. Today, usurped by four-by-four vehicles, these ‘ships’ are now used in the thrilling and traditional sport of camel racing.
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Dates: May 2015 Venue: starts at Dubai International Marine Club, Mina Seyahi. Admission: Free
From October to March, head out to any of the camel race courses across the emirate and you’ll see these beloved beasts pound along the sandy tracks cheered on by crowds of excited locals. On the sidelines, convoys of SUVs keep up with the race. Manic, excitable Arabic commentary booms out of loud speakers packing further punch to the action-packed atmosphere. This really is a sight to behold.
R A C I N G
Date: 5 - 16 April 2015 Venue: Al Marmoum Camel Race Track, Dubai –Al Ain Road. Admission: Free
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Here’s a look at some of the emirate’s lesserknown museums and heritage sites 48
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arabian dhows
DU BA I WOM E N ’ S M U S EU M what: A museum dedicated to Emirati women and their role in the development of the UAE. tell me more: Women have played a pivotal role in the UAE’s history. In 1819, Emirati women fought alongside their men against an invasion by British forces from the sea. In 1956, a time when Arab nationalism and resistance was at a peak, Emirati women joined radios and newspapers. In 1971, Emirati school girls joined the protests against the occupations of the UAE’s three islands by foreign forces. These are just some instances where Emirati women have contributed to and helped shape the country’s history. For a deeper insight into the changing roles Emirati women have played, visitors to this museum can explore and celebrate the lives of women in the UAE and appreciate the key achievements made by them over the years in education, medicine, politics, fashion and literature. attractions: DWM contains rare photos, documents and striking artwork across its threestorey building. One entire floor of the museum has been dedicated to the famous Emirati poet Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, popularly known as ‘Bint Al Arab’ (daughter of Arabs). essentials: Near Deira Gold Souk. House ‘Sikka 28’; 10am7pm Saturday to Thursday. Dhs20 per person; 04 234 2342. womenmuseumuae.com
Visit the Jaddaf dhowbuilding yard to see age-old craftsmenship create the traditional wooden boats that plied the Arabian seas
H E RITAG E A N D DI V I N G V I LL AG E what: A replica of a traditional Bedouin village, the Heritage and Diving Village illuminates Dubai’s glorious past. tell me more: The Diving Village brings to the fore the city’s importance as a pearling nation, while the Heritage Village provides a platform for the emirate’s potters and weavers to display and sell their crafts. Quaint Barasti houses, displays of ethnic dresses, an outdoor kitchen displaying old utensils, a traditional souk and an ancient d u b a i
armory lend an authentic historical feel to the village-style setting. attractions: Nibble on traditional Arabic snacks made by local ladies, visit a traditional coffee house and a small souk selling traditional Bedouin handcrafts and, if you wish to know how the former mode of transport felt, you can even ride a camel. essentials: The Shindagha side of the Dubai Creek; 8.30am10.30pm Saturday to Friday; free; 04 393 7139 . 49
PE A RL M U S EU M what: Before the oil boom, Dubai’s mainstay was pearl diving and this museum showcases some of the finest pearls fished from the bed of the Arabian Sea. tell me more: Long before the Gulf waters yielded their treasure of black gold, they were known for their pearl banks. Gulf pearls were renowned as the finest pearls in the world given the formation of the seabed, the temperature and shallowness of the waters. Sultan Al Owais was one of Dubai’s most important pearl merchants, poets and philanthropists. Passionate about the precious gem, he began collecting pearls in the early 1970s. Some of the finest pearls of the Gulf are part of his collection. Later he donated the collection to the people of the UAE. The National Bank of Dubai set up a museum within its headquarters to display Owais’ magnificent pearl collection. attractions: Natural saltwater pearls that are extremely rare and expensive. Exquisite pieces of perfectly round unblemished silver-white pearls of metallic lustre crown the finest lots. essentials: The National Bank of Dubai, Baniyas Road, Deira; open by apointment; free. pearlmuseum.ae
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heritage village
DU BA I M OV I N G I M AG E MUSEUM what: The first and only one of its kind in the Middle East, the Moving Image Museum traces the progress of visual entertainment from the 1730s to modern-day cinema. tell me more: The museum houses over 300 rare, antique items belonging to Lebanese businessman Akram Miknas (chairman of Middle East Communications Network). The pieces come from all over the world, some dating back to 1730, portraying the development of visual entertainment prior to modern-day cinema.
attractions: Among the collections are rare toy magic lanterns bearing the ‘Arabian Tales 1001 nights’ theme, a 19th century replica of a nearly seven-foot Kaiser Panorama that enables viewers to see 3D images using original hand printed glass slides, and also a collection of more than 30,000 photo cards that can be viewed through stereo viewers. There are also has over 100 original kinora reels that illustrate the beginning of movie viewing at home. essentials: Near Dubai Internet City metro station; 11am - 6pm everyday except Fridays; Dhs50 for adults, children under 18 pay Dhs25. dubaimovingimagemuseum.com
Al Fahidi Fort, within which the Dubai Museum is housed, is one of the finest illustrations of ancient desert forts in the Middle East. The oldest of its kind in the emirates, this fort was built in 1787 as a barricade to protect the region from attacks. Later it became an administration seat and residence of the ruling family, a prison and finally a museum in 1971 by Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum. 8:30am to 2:30pm Saturday to Thursday; Dhs5; 04-353 1862
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sheikh saeed house
M A J LI S G HORFAT U M M AL SHEIF what: Visit the summer residence of the former ruler of Dubai. tell me more: The late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum built this summer residence in 1955 just off Jumeirah beach (on Street 17). Now restored and open to the public, Majlis Ghorfat is surrounded by date palms and is a peaceful retreat that perfectly captures the soul of this great man. Built within a former date palm plantation beside a fishing village, the building provided the late Sheikh Rashid with a retreat for himself, his family, guests and friends. It also was the perfect place for discussing and debating public affairs during a very important episode of Dubai’s history. attractions: Constructed of gypsum and coral rocks, the house is a simple two-storey structure built according to traditional style, with many air inlets in the walls. The ground floor comprises an open terrace and storeroom with a staircase leading to the second story where the main majlis (meeting) room is found. Restored in 1994, the rooms and terraces have been decorated with carpets, cushions, lanterns and rifles in an attempt to showcase what life was like for this prestigious family. essentials: Jumeirah 3; 7:30am – 2:30pm Sunday to Thursday; Dh1. dubaiculture.gov.ae
H E RITAG E HOU S E what: A courtyard house of one of Dubai’s wealthiest merchants. It is regarded as one of the finest examples of traditional Arabic architecture. tell me more: This renovated 1890 courtyard house once belonged to Sheikh Ahmed bin Dalmouk. It offers a rare opportunity to peek inside a wealthy pearl merchant’s residence. Built from coral and gypsum, the rooms wrap around a central courtyard flanked by verandahs to keep direct sunlight out. attractions: Most rooms have audiovisual displays and recreate traditional aspects of daily life, complete with dioramas. They include the majlis (meeting room), kitchen, marriage room (with a model bride and groom), traditional store (complete with sound effects), and a cattle pen. There is also an exhibition of rare photographs taken in Dubai between 1948 and 1953. Plus you can sit back on the cushions under the central Bedouin-style tent and enjoy coffee and traditional snacks for just Dh3. essentials: Al Ahmadiya Street in Deira; 8am-7.30pm Saturday to Thursday and 2.30pm-7.30pm on Friday; free. 04 226 0286
A L A H M A DIYA SCHOOL what: Step inside Dubai’s first school: the institution that groomed the leaders of the emirate. tell me more: Al Ahmadiya holds the distinction of being Dubai’s first school. Founded by the pearl merchant Sheikh Ahmed bin Dalmouk, it welcomed its first students, all boys, in 1912. Here, you can see the original classroom where the students sat behind wooden desks to learn the Holy Quran, grammar, Arabic calligraphy, mathematics, literature and astronomy. attractions: The school building itself is the most noteworthy. The courtyard arches are resplendent, as are the heavy carved doors and the decorative gypsum panels outside the entrance. essentials: Al Ahmadiya Street in Deira; 8am-7.30pm from Saturday to Thursday and 2.30pm-7.30pm on Friday; free. 04 226 0286
heritage house
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Fashion
Life on the Ramp Make sure you’re in the front row to catch up with all the latest fashion news and style collections happening at Fashion Forward Season 5
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want to get in with the ‘it’ crowd? Whether you are an aspiring designer, stylist, photographer, have dreams of sashaying down the catwalk yourself one day or simply enjoy sitting in the front row soaking up the glitz and glamour of the fashion world, then Dubai’s bi-annual fashion extravaganza, Fashion Forward (FFWD), is the event for you. It also helps that FFWD is billed as the definitive fashion platform for the Middle East. Inspiring and nurturing growth and talent in the fashion industry, the ultimate goal of FFWD is to drive forward the entire fashion industry in the region. d u b a i
FFWD Season 5 returns to the city’s catwalk from 10-12 April at Madinat Jumeirah. Over three exciting days, you’ll have the chance to witness the latest trends and designs from the Middle East’s top emerging and established designers; tune in to enriching talks from the biggest names in the industry and even sit in on panel discussions led by global industry experts and fashion academia. That is FFWD’s greatest USP: whether you are a jet setting diva or just plain Jane, the event is open to everyone. For more information and for details on how to attend, please visit fashionforward.ae (registration opens in March 2015).
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Fashion
TALK OF THE TOWN fashion forward organisers promise that the Season 5 line up will be the best ever. For each edition, FFWD always presents a striking line-up of designers, welcoming back standout names, debuting talents that are new to the platform and hosting some of the region’s well established labels. Past editions have included couture designers Amato By Furne One, Dany Tabet, Jean Louis Sabaji, Michael Cinco, Zareena as well as readyto-wear collections by Asudari Studio, Bashar Assaf, Ceremony, Dima Ayad, Essa, Hasan Hejazi, House of Hâshé, House of Ronald, Madiyah Al Sharqi, Maral, Starch Foundation, Tahir Sultan, Taller Marmo and The Emperor 1688.
Take a look at some of the designers behind Dubai’s beautiful people.
das collection
From a luxe shopping store in Dubai to Harrods in London, DAS Collection – by Emirati sisters Reem and Hind Beljafla – is one of Dubai’s biggest fashion success stories. What began as a labour of love to update the traditional Arabic abaya soon blossomed into a full-fledged love affair with fashion. Reem and Hind’s designs, which now encompass beautifully draped dresses, sharp trousers and elegant skirts amongst other items, have been showcased at London Fashion Week and are regulars at Fashion Forward. dascollection.com
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Snap up the latest accessories and lifestyle accents at The Garden, individual booths at various locations during Fashion Forward. This open-to-all retail space houses the latest by designers originating from or residing in the Middle East. With jewellery, handbags, fashion illustrations and even stylish homeware on offer with price tags from Dhs300 to Dhs6,000 there’s something for every style addict.
west la
Founder Alia Korayem considers her West LA boutique the pioneer of the underground fashion scene in Dubai: free, laidback, cool yet with a hint of edge and grunge. And her claim isn’t far-fetched. Within a year of opening (2012) West LA received rave reviews from both the public and media and its outfits are regularly spotted on Dubai’s socialites. westlaboutique.com
the emperor 1688
Created by the young and suave Golkar brothers, The Emperor 1688 has been ruling men’s style index in Dubai since 2007. Recently the brand won the regional round of the International Woolmark Prize, one of the most coveted fashion awards in the world. Their designs source inspiration from classical architecture, world culture and traditional English tailoring. theemperor1688.com
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amato by furne one
Launched in 2002, Amato is the brainchild of the much-awarded Dubai-based creative designer Furne One (pronounced Ohney), who partnered with textile expert Rashid Ali. From ethereal bridal wear to playful prêt-aporter, Amato is renowned for his creativity and natural panache to transcend everyday trends into classic works of art. The brand boasts a long list of international clientele that includes supermodel Heidi Klum and singing sensations Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj and Shakira among others. amatohautecouture.com
tahir sultan
Tahir debuted at London Fashion Week in 2012 – the first ever Kuwaiti designer to do so. His luxurious pieces pay particular attention to detail, are determinedly glamorous yet conservative, allowing women to feel empowered and sexy without necessarily being too showy and exposing too much. Tahir Sultan believes fashion is all about selfexpression, and explains, “If you’re wearing your personality, chances are you’re going to get noticed”. tahirsultan.com
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO F A S H I O N
Fashion Forward 2015 (Season 5): Thursday 10 April - Sunday 12 April 2015 fashionforward.ae
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ZAYAN TALKS FASHION fashion designer, trendsetter, owner of the forward-thinking S*uce boutique and her own eponymous contemporary fashion line, Zayan the Label, and co-founder of Two Scoops, the first distribution agency for local and regional designers in the UAE – Zayan Ghandour talks about Dubai and its fashion footing. “Dubai is a beautiful vibrant city bursting with energy and creativity. We have been big believers in regional talent since we opened our first S*uce concept store in Jumeirah in 2004, supporting budding designers by offering valuable retail space, positioning them alongside successful contemporary brands as well as offering hands-on direction and mentorship. It’s beautiful and inspiring to see how far along Dubai and its fashion industry has come since those early days. Today Dubai stands as a regional hub for fashion design, with projects such as d3 (Dubai Design District) and the establishment of the Dubai Design and Fashion Council spearheading the city and its designers’ development and ensuring we, as a community, all share the same goal and work together towards achieving it, in true Dubai fashion. And in the midst of all this there is of course Fashion Forward, which shines light on Dubai-based designers and provides them with the legitimate platform they require to showcase their collections. As a designer myself, having launched my own brand, Zayan the Label in 2012, I have experienced all the challenges that new designers face when trying to establish a fully-fledged brand. And while we strive to learn and improve with every season, it is the support of Dubai government’s various initiatives as well as entities such as Fashion Forward that give us the perseverance to keep going and the passion to keep growing.”
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#mydubai screen
Dubai Mall’s largest screen
virtual reality
Dubai 360 interactive tour
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Photography
Harnessing the Power of Local Advocacy As the saying goes: “Out of the mouths of babes comes truth”. This can equally be said about residents of a destination. They are the ones that know it best – the good and the bad – and because it’s ‘their’ home, they feel they have the right to express their feelings. As the #MyDubai initiative has clearly demonstrated – having garnered over two billion positive impressions on social media – the biggest advocates of Dubai are the residents themselves
Launched via Instagram on 5 January 2014 by Dubai’s Crown Prince, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, #MyDubai was conceived with the aim of creating the world’s first autobiography of a city. With local advocacy and engagement at its centre, the initiative encourages the people of Dubai to share compelling moments and experiences in their lives via social media. After a mere 12 hours #MyDubai had already seen more than 25,000 images and videos uploaded to Instagram using the hash-tag, and by the end of the year that number had risen to over 2.5 million, with an additional half a million users on Twitter amounting to a total of two billion impressions. The statistics reflect the extent to which #MyDubai has captured people’s imaginations and moved
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them to be part of the initiative. Its potential as a positive advocate of the city was quickly identified and various #MyDubai platforms have been created on which to showcase the best, most striking photographs and videos. This includes an official instagram account, @MyDubai – also known as the #MyDubai e-museum, for which a selection of images hash-tagged MyDubai are chosen on a daily basis to represent life in Dubai on that day. Also, as of January this year, selected shots are being shown on a massive 19.2m x 19.2m LED screen installed next to the Dubai Fountain, in front of Burj Khalifa. Of course, the success of #MyDubai relies heavily on positive resident engagement. With the most intimate knowledge of the city and actively ‘living the brand’, Dubai’s residents
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are the Emirate’s biggest advocates and, armed with a multitude of social media channels at their disposal, they are optimally placed to share its best aspects and secret gems with visitors and potential visitors. Yet empowering residents in this way and harnessing local advocacy is not without risk, which leads to the question of why it has worked so well for Dubai? Part of the answer lies in the nature and makeup of Dubai’s population, which, unlike most other cities around the world, comprises over 200 different nationalities. What’s more, approximately 80 per cent of Dubai’s 2.1 million residents are expats, which makes them longstay tourists of sorts and therefore also potential influencers in their home countries. Engaging in the #MyDubai initiative is a chance to show off, to share the new and
exciting environment in which they live with friends and family ‘back home’. Expat residents also know what it is like to be a visitor in Dubai, meaning they are well placed to act as guides – a useful skill considering Dubai has more visitors per resident than anywhere else in the world, according to the 2014 MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. But #MyDubai has captured the imaginations of not only expats but also local Emiratis, with the initiative engendering a sense of patriotism. Since it is a communityowned and operated initiative, it has instilled a sense of ownership and pride among residents. The initiative’s success can also be attributed to its fortuitous timing. 2014 was the year of the ‘selfie’, according to Twitter’s top trends of 2014. Dubai’s residents were not immune to this worldwide d u b a i
trend, with more and more people prepared to take and share images of themselves – in front of Dubai’s iconic locations, enjoying the plethora of activities on offer or tucking into their favourite foods in one of the Emirate’s more than 5,400 restaurants. The human element of the selfie is a perfect fit with #MyDubai and complements Dubai’s tourist office’s strategy of promoting the city as a destination not only to be seen but to be experienced.With #MyDubai now in its second year, the initiative continues to gain momentum, enjoying widespread recognition particularly among the people of Dubai but also beyond the city’s borders. The initiative serves as a fascinating and successful example of how a city’s residents can come together as a positive advocate for a destination. After all – the camera never lies. 63
Virtual reality Dubai 360 launches the world’s first online interactive city tour Dubai 360 has officially launched at www.Dubai360.com with the first of its kind online interactive tour. The site allows viewers to explore every inch of the city from the comfort of their own home, providing a firsthand experience that has never been seen before in the virtual world. Utilising 1,298 pieces of panoramic video and
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photo content, Dubai 360 is the first virtual city tour that exclusively uses fully interactive and immersive 360 degree panoramic photo, timelapse and video content. With content filmed at the pinnacle of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, the site users can see a bird’s eye view
of the city with sweeping panoramas down Sheikh Zayed Road and Dubai’s coast. From there at a click of a button, viewers can travel to the luxurious Royal Suite at the Burj Al Arab hotel and experience the gold clad interiors, opulent rooms and stunning sea-view.
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A visit to The Dubai Mall’s famous aquarium will allow users to swim amongst the sea creatures, or take a ride on Dubai’s new metro and view the city at speed. Dubai360.com is a living tour and imagery will continue to be updated to capture the ever growing metropolis and the various experiences the city has to offer.
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A LOOK AHEAD
to the next few months Ramadan in Dubai
The holy month of Ramadan is the most important and reflective time in the Islamic calendar. Come see the spiritual side of Dubai and experience true Emirati culture and tradition. Enjoy lavish iftar and suhour feasts, Holy Quran recitals, the festive Ramadan Night Markets and enlightening Ramadan forums where scholars from around the globe talk through the essence of Islam. 18 June - 16 July
Middle East Event Show 2015
Dubai is increasingly being recognised as the regional hub of the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and events) industry. Dedicated to the booming MICE sector, the Middle East Event Show 2015 is regarded as the ultimate exhibition for event management equipment such as lighting and sound, temporary structures, fireworks and pyrotechnics, decorations, props and designs and special effects. 2-3 June at JW Marriott Marquis. me-eventshow.com
Eid in Dubsi 2015
The festival of Eid al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with much fanfare in Dubai. Expect a variety of entertainment programmes, carnivals, massive firework displays and, of course, huge shopping discounts. 17 July
Cityscape Global 2015
We all love Dubai’s gleaming skyscrapers and the annual Cityscape Global exhibition is the perfect time to claim a home in one of them. With nearly 300 exhibitors under the same roof – at Dubai World Trade Centre – your dream home is just a step away. 8-10 September at Dubai World Trade Centre. cityscapeglobal.com
Robot Technology 2015
Dubai’s techno-geeks are looking forward to RTEX, the first Robotics exhibition of its kind in the MENA region. Learn hands-on about the latest in robotic technology through in-depth workshops and extensive seminars. 29 September - 1 October at The Meydan Hotel. rt-exhibition.com
Gitex Technology Week 2015
The eyes of the technology business world will focus on Dubai as GITEX Technology Week 2015 opens its doors to more than 100,000 IT professionals from 150 countries and 3,700 exhibiting companies. The exhibition is regarded as a gateway for global technology brands to access the Middle East, the fastest emerging and investment ready ICT market. 18-22 October at Dubai World Trade Centre. gitex.com 66
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THE ROOFTOP AT THE BURJ CLUB SUCCUMB TO TEMPTATION WITH TWO-FOR-ONE BEVERAGES AND A ONE-IN-A-MILLION VIEW OF THE DUBAI FOUNTAIN. UNWIND WITH THE EVER-CHANGING GALAXY OF GLIMMERING LIGHTS BELOW…AND ABOVE. ALWAYS IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN DUBAI.
Open from 7pm | Prior reservations essential +971 4 423 8844 /theburjclub |
/theburjclub