The insider`s guide to Dubai`s must-have visitor

Transcription

June 2016
The insider's guide
to Dubai's must-have
visitor experiences
EXPERIENCE
AN ILLUMINATING RAMADAN
Savour the flavours of the Holy Month
at two iconic destinations in Dubai.
Delight in authentic Arabian traditions at
and Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
The Meydan Hotel
& Spa.
r Enjoy ‘Ramadan in the Sky’ Iftar and Suhour
at The Meydan Hotel within the extraordinary Sky Bubble
r Experience Arabian hospitality at Al Hadheerah’s
unique air-conditioned tent within the dramatic
desert settings of Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
For more information and reservations, please visit meydanhotels.com/Ramadan
The Meydan Hotel | +971 4 381 3111
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa | +971 4 809 6194
[email protected]
meydanhotels.com
A MEYDAN HOTELS EXPERIENCE
Welcome Note
1
DXB City Expert
ediTorial
Editorial Director
John Thatcher
Contributing Editor
Lara Brunt
Contributors
Andy Buchan, Oliver
Robinson, Tracey Scott
A WA R M
arT
Art Director
Andy Knappett
Designer
Emi Dixon
Illustrator
Andrew Thorpe
commercial
Managing Director
Victoria Thatcher
Group Commercial
Director
David Wade
Commercial Director
Rawan Chehab
Business Development
Manager
Rabih El Turk
Sales Manager
Lisa Price
ProdUcTion
Production Manager
Muthu Kumar
To
DUBAI
We know it can feel a little overwhelming when you first set foot in Dubai.
How exactly do you explore this ultra modern metropolis? Where do you start?
We love Dubai and we want to ensure that you feel the same, so that’s why we
decided to create this handy-sized, helpful guide to help you on your way.
Rather than present you with a long list of recommendations which would take
you the duration of your holiday to read, our Dubai-based team of in-the-know
writers have cherry picked the city’s best bits – leaving you free to simply enjoy it.
Inside this guide you’ll find insider knowledge on everything from the best
restaurants with a view and tips on where to shop for clothes made by the finest local
fashion designers, to the coolest season-ending beach parties and the finest family
entertainment. We’ll also tell you which of the many organised tours are the best to
take to see all of this city’s ample attractions.
This month – most likely from June 6 – Dubai observes the Holy Month of
Ramadan. It's a wonderful time to be here as a visitor, with the daily iftars and
suhoors (see page 14) granting you an opportunity to immerse yourself in local
culture. Both deliver a real warmth and feeling of togetherness that you really must
experience, so check out our recommended venues from page 30. Away from the
iftars and suhoors there are some key cultural sensitivities to be aware of during
Ramadan – we list them on page 17.
All that remains is for us to wish you Ramadan Kareem and the holiday
of a lifetime. Go get it...
Cover Image :
Ramadan Kareem
By Andrew Thorpe
John ThaTcher
Editorial Director
DXB City Expert
Contents
3
DXB City Expert
The
CONTENTS
5
On ArrivAl
All you need to know when you touch down in Dubai.
6
SO ThiS iS DubAi
A little local knowledge to help you ease your way
into the city.
19
TOp Of The TOurS
Let the experts take the strain out of sightseeing.
30
Where TO eAT
From fine dining and ‘only in Dubai’ eats, to family
favourites and best budget options, this chapter
comes stuffed with our recommendations.
54
Where TO ShOp
There’s more to Dubai’s shopping scene than merely
the world’s biggest mall. Credit cards at the ready…
62
WhAT TO DO
Underwater, on the water, in the sand and in the
snow: there are myriad ways to enjoy yourself
in the city. We’ve selected the best.
72
Where TO GO
It's quieter than usual this month as the city's clubs
close for Ramadan. But there's still fun to be had
after dark.
Produced for dnata Travel by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC.
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. All prices mentioned are correct
at time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors contained in DXB City Expert.
feeling like a VIP
that’s Kilban’s
marhaba effect
The difference is the staff. So caring.
I’m just an ordinary traveller but
marhaba makes me feel like a VIP.
With people like this, there is only
one way you can go—up, up and up!
Kilban
Breeze through all the airport formalities with our meet &
greet services in Dubai and Bahrain.
Whether you’re arriving, departing or transferring,
marhaba meet & greet makes your time at the airport
something to look forward to.
You can also relax in style, no matter what your airline or
class of travel, at our lounges in Dubai and Bahrain.
Find your marhaba effect at marhabaservices.com
meet & greet | family packages | marhaba lounge | citystop | transfer service
5
On Arrival
DXB City Expert
On
ARRIVAL
You’re almost there now, but before you
head off to your hotel here’s a little
something to help you on your way
Leaving The airporT
There are ample public taxis available
at the airport, though there’s every
chance you’ll have to queue to get one.
As you do so, you may notice a line of
estate-sized pink-roof taxis. These are
exclusively for women and families,
and are helmed by female drivers only.
There are also taxis specifically for
special needs travellers – both can be
requested from the taxi line attendant
once you’re at the front of the queue.
Your fare will include an airport pickup fee of Dhs25, which is the amount
the meter will start from.
Dubai International Airport is
also serviced by the Dubai Metro.
However, each passenger is restricted
to two pieces of luggage, one of which
shouldn’t be bigger than hand luggage.
Trains run approximately every 10
minutes and depart from Terminals
1 and 3 – just follow the signs. Trains
start at 5.50am (5.30am on Thursday),
and stop at midnight (1am on Thursday
and Friday). But be aware that trains
start at only 10am on Fridays. There
are just two lines, so it’s easy to work
out your route, and you’ll likely find
taxis at each station to take you to your
specific address.
If you’re intending to hire a car on
arrival in Dubai, you’ll find all the major
operators are present at the airport.
Chief amongst them is Hertz, which is
available at both Terminal 1 (+971 4
224 5222) and Terminal 3 (+971 4 220
3013) of Dubai International Airport.
Drivers must be aged 21 or over and be
in possession of a valid driving license
from their home country. Remember
that driving in Dubai is on the right
hand side of the road.
hire a heLping hand from
marhaba
If you’re reading this before you travel
to Dubai, or if you haven’t yet planned
your return journey to the airport,
it’s well worth checking out the
services of Marhaba (+971 4 389 8989,
marhabaservices.com).
On arrival, their always-smiling
staff greet you as you come off the
aircraft, before ferrying you by buggy
to passport control and whizzing you
past the queues (which can be long) to
their dedicated counters and beyond,
where a porter will collect your luggage.
Services are tailored to suit individuals,
families and those with specific needs.
Fast-tracking through airport
procedures is also a feature of any
return journey you make with Marhaba,
while you can also book a chauffeur
pick-up from anywhere in Dubai and
enjoy the hospitality of their airport
lounge – and its complimentary food
and drink – as you await boarding.
have a word
Although English is spoken and
understood pretty much everywhere
you'll go in Dubai, it's polite to try
a little Arabic when you show your
passport on arrival. If Arabic’s not your
native tongue, here are a few helpful
words…
Marhaba : Hello
Sabah al-khayr : Good morning
As-salaam alaikum : Peace be upon you
Ma’assalama : Goodbye
Minfadlak : Please
Shukran : Thank you
geT connecTed
Before departing the airport you may
wish to buy a sim card that’s designed
for visitors to use while in the UAE. It
costs Dhs35 and provides you with The
Visitor Mobile Line (VML), allowing
you to make calls – or text – while in
Dubai at a fraction of the cost you’ll
pay for roaming. You can buy it from
the ‘du’ shop in the arrivals hall of
both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Once
purchased you can top it up by buying
pre-paid cards at various convenient
locations across the city, including du
shops. See du.ae for a list of locations.
6
So This Is Dubai
DXB City Expert
show some respect
IS
Dubai is a very warm and welcoming
city, but like anywhere else you travel
in the world you’ll want to show
respect for local sensibilities.
Here are a few things to keep in
mind while enjoying your holiday…
DU B A I
Chapter oNe
You’ve read about it, seen the pictures and marvelled from afar.
Now you’re here. But before heading off to enjoy the holiday
of a lifetime, here are a few things to put you in the know
A little bit About
this greAt city of ours…
With a skyline dominated by towering
skyscrapers and now-iconic structures
like Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa, it’s
hard to imagine that Dubai was once
little more than a fishing village. The
Bani Yas tribe settled next to Dubai
Creek in 1833, and the area soon
became a hub for fishing, pearling and
trading. The discovery of ‘black gold’
in 1966 triggered Dubai’s remarkable
transformation into the glittering city
of today.
In 1971, Dubai joined with six
neighbouring emirates – Abu Dhabi,
Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain,
Fujairah and (in 1972) Ras Al Khaimah
– to form the United Arab Emirates,
and this union is celebrated each
year on December 2. Under the late
Sheikh Zayed, the first President of the
UAE, the country blossomed and has
developed into one of the world’s most
prosperous, while still remaining true to
its rich heritage of Bedouin, Islamic and
Emirati cultures.
Today, Dubai is home to over 200
nationalities that are attracted by its
opportunities and lifestyle. Such has
been the city’s rapid expansion beyond
its Creek origins that residents now
commonly refer to ‘old’ and ‘new’
Dubai, with the old part encompassing
Dubai Creek and the wider Bur Dubai
area in the north of the city, and the
new part featuring the strictly modern
superstructures – Downtown Dubai,
Dubai Marina and all – which spread
for miles into the south of the city.
the bAsics, iN No more
thAN 140 chArActers
The Climate
Without a doubt, June in Dubai is
hot. Temperatures top 40°C in the
hottest part of the day, with overnight
temperatures rarely dropping below
26°C.
The Currency
The UAE Dirham is what you’ll use.
Notes come in 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50,
20, 10 and 5 and their value is pegged
at Dhs3.67 = US$1.
The Weekend
The UAE’s weekend is Friday/Saturday.
Dubai Metro services start at 10am on
Fridays (5.30am on Saturdays) and run
until 1am on weekends.
Be sure to refrain from over-the-top
public displays of affection, even when
in nightclubs.
Do not succumb to the urge to make
rude hand gestures to other people –
doing so could land you in hot water.
Dress modestly when outside the
confines of your hotel, particularly if
you’re heading to a mall, where women
shouldn’t leave their shoulders bare.
Taking photos of some government
buildings and all military sites is
strictly prohibited. Stick to the tourist
attractions when you’re choosing a
background for selfies.
Don’t drink alcohol, or be seen to
be overly intoxicated, outside of
licensed premises. Unruly behaviour
isn’t tolerated.
BE PART OF OUR HERITAGE
AT JW’S STEAKHOUSE.
Best steakhouse in Dubai for over 20 years.
Voted “Best Steakhouse” in 2016, 2013, 2012, 2011.
JW Marriott Hotel Dubai | Hamarain Centre | Abu Baker Al Siddique Road | Dubai | T: +971 4 607 7977 | marriottdiningatjw.ae
9
DXB City Expert
sheikh ZAyeD
roAD
Jumeriah Beach Road, as well as
trendy shops, cafés and restaurants at
popular new developments such as The
Galleria Mall, Box Park and City Walk.
Jumeirah Mosque is another reason to
visit, especially during Ramadan. The
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural
Understanding (+971 4 353 6666,
cultures.ae) offers guided tours every
Saturday to Thursday at 10am (Dhs10).
So This Is Dubai
Get Your
Bearings
Downtown Dubai
Throughout this guide we’ve
referenced areas of Dubai, which
to the first-time visitor may mean
nothing at all. To help, here’s the
skinny on the city’s districts you’ll
most likely encounter...
DowNtowN
DubAi
Home to the largest mall, tallest
tower and biggest fountain, Dubai’s
showpiece city centre is as glitzy as
it gets. Lined with palm trees that
twinkle with thousands of fairy
lights, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid
Boulevard boasts five-star hotels,
restaurants, a San Francisco-style
tram and a constant flow of supercars.
Another popular spot is Souk Al Bahar
(‘market of the sailor’), a waterfront
entertainment and dining hub
overlooking the Dubai Fountain and
Burj Khalifa.
DubAi mAriNA
AND Jbr
In the south of the city, this buzzing
district includes a man-made marina
and a forest of skyscrapers that stretch
from Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah
Beach Residence (JBR). Brimming
with hotels and restaurants, there are
two beachfront promenades, The Walk
and The Beach at JBR, packed with
family-friendly eateries. You’ll also
find the Marina Mall and the Dubai
Tram, which connects to Palm Jumeirah
monorail and will eventually extend to
the Burj Al Arab.
bur DubAi
AND DeirA
Flanking the southern side of Dubai
Creek, Bur Dubai is the oldest part of
the city. Here you’ll find the majority
of the city’s historical sites, including
Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed al
Maktoum House, as well as restored
wind-tower houses and a textile souk.
Over the water, Deira is a melting pot
of Arab, Asian and African cultures and
a great spot for cheap street eats, as
well as shopping in the Gold Souk and
Spice Souk.
The 8km stretch of the main highway
between Business Bay and the World
Trade Centre roundabout is popular
with tourists, expats and locals alike,
thanks to the clutch of five-star hotels
including the Fairmont Dubai, The
Conrad and H Hotel, which are easily
reached by metro (stations line Sheikh
Zayed Road). Just past the roundabout
is the brilliant Zabeel Park, one of the
city's largest green spaces.
JumeirAh
Home to sprawling villas and excellent
beaches, this low-rise suburb overlaps
with Umm Suqeim (where you’ll find
Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah,
an Arabesque-inspired hotel, dining
and entertainment complex). Jumeirah
is known for boutique shopping along
pAlm
JumeirAh
Even if you’re not staying here, you
can still visit the man-made island
that’s become a symbol of Dubai. A
monorail runs along the length of the
trunk to Atlantis, The Palm, where
you can spend the day at Aquaventure
water park. Meanwhile, the 11km-long
crescent has a string of five-star hotels
with restaurants and spas open to
non-guests.
10
So This Is Dubai
10 of the best
ways to beat the heat
this summer
DXB City Expert
Mattel Play! Town
Best for… an indulgent
cinema experience
You don’t have to settle for popcorn
in Dubai, thanks to renowned British
chef, Gary Rhodes. At Vox Theatre
by Rhodes (+971 600 599 905,
voxcinemas.com) you can tuck into
finger or fork-only fine-dining dishes
while watching the latest releases in
plush, reclining, leather chairs.
Best for… sKiing in a mall
Keep cool at the indoor snow resort,
Ski Dubai (advanced booking via
+971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.
com or City Sightseeing Dubai
kiosks at all major malls +971 4 316
7506). The whole family will love
skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing
or just mingling with penguins in the
mountain-themed setting.
Best for… defying gravity
Fly high in the world’s first double
vertical wind tunnel at iFly Dubai
(+971 4 231 6292, theplaymania.com).
Kids, teens and adults can all get a feel
for skydiving without jumping out of
a plane, or just enjoy hovering four
meters above the ground.
Best for… spotting
marine life
Explore the world's largest suspended
aquarium at Dubai Aquarium &
Underwater Zoo (advanced booking
via +971 4 303 4888, arabianadventures.com or City Sightseeing
Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971
4 316 7506). It's home to over 140
species including sharks, stingrays,
crocodiles and much more.
Best for… local crafts
and organic fare
Looking to take a piece of Dubai home?
Find everything from organic skincare
and local honey to leather handbags and
handmade jewellery at Ripe Market
(+971 4 380 7602, ripeme.com), held
every Saturday from 9am-3pm at Times
Square Centre.
Best for… Being at one
WitH nature
Open year-round, Dubai Butterfly
Garden (+971 4 422 8902,
dubaibutterflygarden.com) is a fluttery
attraction unlike any other in the city.
There are nine air-conditioned domes
filled with thousands of plants, flowers
and butterflies from around the world.
Best for… late nigHt
sHopping
Dubai's malls stay open later during
Ramadan, often until 2am. Two top
malls to soak up the atmosphere
are The Dubai Mall (800 38224
6255, thedubaimall.com) and Mall
of the Emirates (+971 4 409 9000,
malloftheemirates.com).
Best for… Keeping young
Kids entertained
Just opened at City Walk, Mattel
Play! Town (+971 4 317 3999,
playtowndubai.com) is a fun-filled
‘eduplay’ attraction for kids aged two to
10. There are five play zones, live shows
and a 4D cinema featuring characters
such as Fireman Sam, Angelina
Ballerina and Bob The Builder.
Best for… a serene
spa experience
Treat yourself to a Jetlag Reviver
aromatherapy massage at Dubai
InterContinental Marina (+971 4
446 6643, ihg.com). Using a blend of
individually chosen oils, the skilled
therapist will firmly knead away knots
and tension to leave you feeling relaxed.
Best for… a middle eastern
cooKing class
Learn to cook an authentic iftar menu
at the sleek Top Chef Cooking Studio
(+971 4 385 5781, topchefdubai.
com) in Jumeirah. You'll learn about
Arabic culture and cuisine and sit
down to sample your culinary creations
afterwards. See the website for details.
So This Is Dubai
What’s on
this month
Experience the community spirit of
Ramadan and enjoy a host of indoor
activities
2nd
dubai sports world
Every summer, Dubai World Trade
Centre is transformed into the region's
largest indoor sporting venue. There
are tennis, basketball, volleyball and
badminton courts, as well as football
pitches, cricket nets, table tennis,
parkour, bungee trampolines, an aerial
rope course and more. Open 8am-1am
until August 27, dubaisportsworld.ae
2-4th
the merry wives of windsor
Produced in honour of the 400th
anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, an
all-male cast double up in roles to bring
The Bard’s hilarious farce to life at
DUCTAC Theatre. The plot follows the
antics of Sir John Falstaff, a fat knight
who tries to swindle money out of two
prominent housewives of Windsor.
Tickets Dhs100, ductac.org
3rd
Gabriel iGlesias
Get set to giggle as Gabriel Iglesias
brings his #Fluffy Breaks Even world
tour to Dubai World Trade Centre. As
one of America’s best-loved stand-ups,
his high-octane show is a mixture of
spot-on impersonations, storytelling
and sound effects that bring all his
personal experiences to life. Tickets
from Dhs250, virginmegastore.me
12
DXB City Expert
CloCkwise from below:
Modhesh World;
Ramadan Night Market;
Modhesh World;
Ramadan Night Market.
So This Is Dubai
13
DXB City Expert
6th
ramadan majlis
Share the spirit of Ramadan at the
indoor majlis at Dubai World Trade
Centre's Sheikh Saeed Hall 3. Even if
you haven’t been fasting, you are still
welcome to join in and enjoy à la carte
Arabic cuisine, tea and shisha. Open
throughout Ramadan for iftar from
7pm-9pm and suhoor from 9pm-3am
(4am on weekends), majlis.ae
10th
uefa euro 2016
The month-long football tournament
featuring 24 European teams including
Germany, Spain, Italy and England
kicks off today in France. Group
matches start at 6pm, 9pm or midnight
local time, and football fans in Dubai
can watch the all the action at various
venues around town. See page 75 for
more details.
23rd
ramadan niGht market
Held over ten nights, this popular
indoor market offers shopping in a
bazaar-like atmosphere, a huge food
court, family entertainment and kids'
play area, plus a henna majlis for
ladies. It takes place at Dubai World
Trade Centre from 8pm to 2am.
Entry costs Dhs5 (under-5s free),
ramadannightmarket.com
27th
modhesh world
This giant temporary playground is an
enormous soft play and activity centre
for kids at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Attracting around thousands visitors
over the summer months, you can
expect slides, rides, trampolines, video
games and live shows galore. Open until
August 27, entry costs Dhs20 (under3s free).
For more events happening this month,
visit dubaicalendar.ae
So This Is Dubai
14
DXB City Expert
An Insight Into
Emirati Culture
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for
Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353
6666, cultures.ae) was set up in 1998 to
realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,
Vice-President and Prime Minister of the
UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who sought
to educate expatriates and visitors in the
traditions and customs of the UAE.
To that end, SMCCU seeks to answer
visitors’ questions about Emirati culture,
its religion, politics and customs, and
does so through its policy of ‘open doors/
open minds’, meaning that no question is
considered too silly or offensive. In short,
it’s a must-visit for tourists.
In this series of question and answer
sessions we’re conducting with SMCCU
to provide you with an insight into
Emirati culture, we discuss Ramadan –
expected to begin on June 6 – with one of
the centre’s guides, Salamah.
whAt is rAmADAN?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the
lunar calendar that we Muslims follow.
Fasting during the month of Ramadan
is also one of the five pillars of Islam.
The fast is from sunrise to sunset
and we’re not eating, drinking or
inhaling any substance that will reach
our stomach. If we have to take in
something for medical reasons, this is a
different case.
But it's not just abstaining from food
and drink; it's abstaining from what
the physical body wants so the soul,
from sunrise to sunset, can focus on
worship. We're abstaining from our
natural instincts in a way and things
that the physical body wants have to be
denied, just as a test. And also it helps
us remember those people who don't
know if they're going to have a meal at
sunset so we feel more thankful.
whAt is the Atmosphere like
DuriNg rAmADAN?
There's a community spirit as everyone
else around you is fasting, and that's
what keeps me going on those days
when all I can think about is that
brownie in the kitchen from last night.
We look forward to Ramadan – it's
a challenge and we don't necessarily
focus on what we can't have. But there
are days when it's hard and that's when
the community spirit helps.
is ANyoNe exempt from fAstiNg?
Yes. Anyone who is very sick, to the
point where if they were to continue
the fast it would be detrimental to
them. If you are sick and you need
medicine that is swallowed or inhaled
through the nose, then you must take
the medicine and not fast. Elderly
people and small children don't fast, nor
do travellers – even if you feel capable
of fasting, the fast is not accepted
and you have to make it up later. For
pregnant women and breastfeeding
women, it's up to them really if they feel
they can fast or not. Then depending on
why you're not fasting, you either have
to make up the fast after Ramadan or
you have to pay a 'ransom', which is a
meal for a poor person.
whAt is iftAr AND suhoor?
Suhoor is the meal before sunrise.
Iftar means breakfast so, outside of
Ramadan iftar is the breakfast we eat in
the morning, and during Ramadan it is
the 'break fast' at sunset. In Islam, we're
recommended to follow the example
of the Prophet Muhammad, which is
to break the fast with water and dates.
The water refreshes the system and
the dates have sugar, minerals and
vitamins which wake up the digestive
system so you will feel better when
you go to eat other food. Most Muslims
around the world will break their fast
with water and dates. In the UAE, we
add something called luqaimat, which
are small fried balls of dough covered
in date syrup. They're technically a
breakfast food – we serve them at our
cultural breakfasts at the centre – but
very few households make them during
the year, so we have them when we're
breaking the fast during Ramadan.
whAt is the sigNificANce of
chArity DuriNg rAmADAN?
Because you're feeling what poor
people are feeling, you feel more
charitable. Then the last 10 nights
during Ramadan are special, as Laylatul
Al Qadr (the Night of Power) comes
during this time, although we don't
know when exactly this night is. It's the
night when the Quran was revealed to
So This Is Dubai
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DXB City Expert
So This Is Dubai
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DXB City Expert
So This Is Dubai
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DXB City Expert
the Prophet Muhammad for the first
time. If you do an act of charity within
these nights, you'll get more 'points' for
it. You should be charitable at all times
and you can do extra during the last
10 nights.
Are there AdditionAl prAyers
during rAmAdAn?
We continue with all of our activities as
normal, so work (although in the UAE,
office hours are shortened) and the five
daily prayers. Then there are additional
prayers throughout Ramadan at night;
after the normal last prayer, called
Isha, are Tarawih prayers, which can
last anywhere from an hour to two
hours. Then in the last 10 nights after
Tarawih, there are additional prayers
called Qiyam Al-Layl. These are in
the early morning around 3am and
preferably you have slept and woken
up for them to make it an even bigger
challenge. Many people think that
hunger is the biggest [challenge during
Ramadan], but personally for me, and
for many Muslims, it’s the change in
sleep patterns and tiredness.
Also one of the goals during Ramadan
is to read the whole Quran. The Quran
is divided into surahs, or chapters, but
the pages are also divided per day of
the lunar month. So we try to do one
section for each day of the lunar month
and finish by Ramadan.
Are there Any etiquette tips for
visitors during rAmAdAn?
I think all of the things they should
be mindful of year-round, they should
especially try to adhere to during
Ramadan. So modest clothing, based
on what’s considered modest here,
rather than their home countries, and
try to be patient with us – sometimes
dealing with fasting people, especially
during the first 10 days, is challenging.
Visitors must also remember that, by
law, people are not allowed to eat or
drink in public [from sunrise to sunset].
However, children can walk through
the mall drinking a juice, for example
– this is fine, as even Muslim children
are not required to fast. Visitors [nonMuslim] shouldn’t be shy about letting
their children eat or drink in public.
Ramadan Dos
and Don’ts
You’ll love Ramadan in Dubai. Iftars
and suhoors are great to attend
as a non-muslim as they convey a
real feeling of peace, happiness and
harmony. The cultural sensitivities
you’ll adhere to as a visitor to Dubai
(see page 6) are heightened during
the Holy Month of Ramadan, but
there are a few Ramadan-specifics to
be aware of…
 You can’t eat or drink (water
included) in public during daylight
hours. You should also abstain from
smoking or chewing gum. All hotels
will have at least one venue – or
designated screened-off area – open
during daylight hours to cater to
those who wish to eat and drink
as normal.
 However, it’s not a problem for young
children to eat and drink as normal in
public places. Likewise those who are
pregnant, elderly or sick.
 It’s very important to dress modestly
during Ramadan when in public,
including within shopping malls – cover
your shoulders and knees.
 Dubai’s roads are particularly busy
around Iftar time and, as drivers who
are fasting tend to be tired, accidents
can occur at a greater rate than outside
of Ramadan. Try to avoid travelling at
this time, if possible.
 If you’re travelling on the Dubai
Metro or Dubai Tram and listening
to music, make sure it isn’t audible to
your fellow passengers. Loud music and
dancing (should the urge take you) are
not permitted during Ramadan.
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Top Of The Tours
19
Top
OF THE
TOURS
Chapter T WO
Bags unpacked, sunblock slathered on, it’s time to
get out and see what this city is all about. But with
its climate dictating a dearth of paved walkways,
Dubai isn’t a city that you can easily explore on foot.
Luckily, our friends at Arabian Adventures and
City Sightseeing have just the answer…
DXB City Expert
Top Of The Tours
20
DXB City Expert
CIT Y OF LIGHTs TOUR
Watch Dubai transform into a sparkling city of
lights during this evening City Sightseeing bus tour.
The Creek Route takes in the enchanting lights
of Dubai Creek and the neon-lit commercial hubs
of Deira and Bur Dubai, the oldest parts of the
city, before heading into the heart of 'New Dubai'.
Meanwhile, the Contemporary Route showcases the
city's most strikingly illuminated modern buildings,
including the glittering Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina
and the distinctive silhouette of Atlantis, The Palm.
InCLUdes:
• 2 sightseeing routes showcasing Dubai by night
• See all the big sights including Burj Khalifa and
Atlantis, The Palm
• Audio commentary in 13 languages
• Complimentary water
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Daily from 6pm-10pm
WHaT’s InCLUded: Hop-on and hop-off access to
all City Sightseeing buses on 2 routes for 3 hours
GOOd TO knOW: Tour is free when purchasing a
24hr, 48hr or 72hr City Sightseeing Dubai ticket;
Both routes are included in the ticket price and there
is enough time to do both
LanGUaGes: English, Arabic, German, Spanish,
Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian, Chinese,
Japanese, Turkish, Persian
pRICInG: Adult: Dhs145, Child: Dhs75, Family (2
adults, 2 children): Dhs365.
To book, call 800-CSDUBAI (800 273 8224), email
[email protected], or visit citysightseeing-dubai.com
Top Of The Tours
CIT Y sIGHTseeInG TOUR
Enjoy stress-free sightseeing during a hop-on,
hop-off bus tour with City Sightseeing, the world’s
leading open-top bus tour operator. There are four
colour-coded routes showing you all of the most
popular attractions. Step back in time in the old
quarters of the city, wander among the vibrant
souks, marvel at gleaming skyscrapers, and admire
the beautiful coastline and marina. With over
44 bus stops across the city and countless photo
opportunities, it’s the easiest way to see Dubai.
InCLUdes:
• All 4 sightseeing routes
• Audio commentary in 13 languages
• Complimentary water on board
• Entry to a number of museums and attractions
(see below)
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Daily. Day tour: 9am-
5.30pm; night tour: 6pm-10pm
WHaT’s InCLUded: The 24hr ticket includes:
City of Lights night tour; Arabian dhow cruise,
RTA water taxi (abra); entry to Dubai Museum,
Sheikh Sayeed Al Maktoum House and 5 other
museums; ‘Show & Save’ shopping and dining
discounts. The 48hr and 72hr tickets additionally
include: entry to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater
Zoo; City Sightseeing Sharjah and Ajman (shuttle
bus to Sharjah available on certain days, check
with driver)
GOOd TO knOW: Before your 24hr ticket has
expired you can upgrade to a 48hr ticket for an
extra Dhs55
LanGUaGes: English, Arabic, German, Spanish,
Portuguese, Italian, French, Hindi, Russian,
Chinese, Japanese, Turkish, Persian
pRICInG: 24hr ticket: Family (2 adults, 2
children): Dhs580, Adult: Dhs240, Child (aged
5-15): Dhs100. 48hr ticket: Family: Dhs720,
Adult: Dhs295, Child: Dhs130. 72hr ticket:
Family: Dhs850, Adult: Dhs340, Child: Dhs170
To book, call 800-CSDUBAI (800 273 8224),
email [email protected], or visit citysightseeingdubai.com
21
DXB City Expert
Top Of The Tours
22
DXB City Expert
dHOW dInneR CRUIse
Cruise the historic Dubai Creek aboard
a traditional wooden dhow, the famous
ocean-going vessel of the region. Dine
on Arabic and international cuisine as
you sail past the mosques, wind towers
and lively souks of 'old Dubai', with the
glittering lights of the city's skyscrapers
in the distance.
InCLUdes:
• Buffet dinner
• Aromatic Arabic coffee
• Cruise on Dubai Creek
• Scenic photo opportunities
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Daily (evening)
WHaT’s InCLUded: Dinner cruise
GOOd TO knOW: Operates year-round;
modest dress is recommended; hotel
transfers can be added
pRICInG: Adult/Child: From Dhs170
To book this tour, call Arabian
Adventures on +971 4 303 4992
or visit arabian-adventures.com
Top Of The Tours
easT COasT TOUR
Explore the dramatic canyons, sleepy
villages and date-palm oases of the
UAE’s east coast during a full-day
tour. Shop for local pottery, crafts and
carpets at the Friday Market, open
daily; see the historic Bidyah Mosque,
the oldest and smallest mosque in the
United Arab Emirates; stop for lunch
and take a dip in the beautiful ocean;
and climb the towers and ramparts of
the 16th-century Fujairah Fort
InCLUdes:
• Visit to a local market
• Sightseeing stops at Bidyah Mosque
and Fujairah Fort
• Opportunity to swim in the ocean
• Drive through canyon landscapes
• Scenic photo opportunities
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Mon, Wed, Fri
(full day)
WHaT’s InCLUded: Hotel transfers;
guided tour
modest dress is recommended
pRICInG: Adult/Child: From Dhs225
23
DXB City Expert
Top Of The Tours
24
DXB City Expert
PRIVATE DUNE DINNER
Surprise your sweetheart, celebrate a
special occasion, or just enjoy a being
surrounded by silence and stars during
this VIP experience. A private 4x4
will whisk you away into the Dubai
Desert Conservation Reserve where
you’ll enjoy an intimate Bedouin-style
barbecue at our authentic camp.
Lit only by lanterns, it’s the perfect
place to stargaze away from the bright
city lights.
INCLUDES:
• Private and personalised dune driving
• Private dinner with select beverages
• Stargazing
• Camel ride
• Option to include henna painting and
a belly dance performance
DAYS OF OPERATION: Daily (late
afternoon until evening)
WHAT’S INCLUDED: Food, soft drinks
and beverages; guided tour;
hotel transfers
GOOD TO KNOW: Operates year-round;
a portion of your fee goes towards
supporting local conservation
PRICING: Adult/Child: Dhs895
Top Of The Tours
TRadITIOnaL dUbaI CIT Y TOUR
While the modern city has only existed for little
more than 40 years, Dubai has a rich history that
blends Bedouin, Persian, Islamic and Emirati
culture and traditions. This fascinating tour
explores the atmospheric old quarter of Al Fahidi
with its wind towers and historic fort, as well as
the bustling Creek area and exotic souks.
InCLUdes:
• Photo stop close to Burj Al Arab
• Photo stop at Jumeirah Mosque
• Drive by Zabeel Palace
• Walk through Al Fahidi Cultural Neighbourhood
• Visit to Dubai Museum
• Traditional abra crossing over Dubai Creek
• Walk through the spice and gold souks
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Twice daily (half-day,
morning /afternoon); Friday (afternoon only)
WHaT’s InCLUded: Guided tour; hotel transfers
GOOd TO knOW: Modest clothing and walking
shoes are recommended
LanGUaGes: English and German
OTHeR LanGUaGes: French and Italian tours
operate on Sunday and Wednesday afternoon;
Russian tours operate on Saturday morning and
Tuesday afternoon. Mandarin tours operate on
Monday and Thursday mornings. Japanese tours
operate daily. Portuguese and Spanish language
tours operate on Monday and Thursday and
comprise a full-day tour of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai,
including Burj Khalifa, At The Top.
pRICInG FOR enGLIsH/GeRman; FRenCH/
ITaLIan and RUssIan TOUR OpTIOns:
Adult: Dhs165, Child: Dhs110 (Dhs120 English/
German)
pRICInG FOR mandaRIn:
Adult: Dhs175, Child: Dhs110
pRICInG FOR Japanese:
pRICInG FOR pORTUGese and spanIsH:
Including At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket
To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures on
+971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.com
25
DXB City Expert
Top Of The Tours
26
DXB City Expert
MORNING DUNE DRIVE WITH
FAT BIKES
There is no better time to observe
the vast magnificence of the desert
than during the early hours of the day.
Explore the Dubai Desert Conservation
Reserve in a 4x4 and then try fat bike
desert cycling, so-called because the
bikes have three-inch-wide tyres which
make it easier to cycle on sand. Finish
with a picturesque picnic breakfast.
INclUDES:
• Morning dune drive in the Dubai
Desert Conservation Reserve
• Fat bike desert cycling. No minimum
fitness required (weather-permitting)
• Sand-boarding (weather-permitting)
• Picnic breakfast in the desert
• Opportunity to spot Arabian wildlife
DAyS OF OpERATION: Daily (half day,
mornings only)
WHAT’S INclUDED: Food and soft
drinks; guided tour; hotel transfers
GOOD TO KNOW: Modest dress and
sports shoes recommended; operates
year-round; a portion of your fee goes
towards supporting local conservation
pRIcING: Adult: Dhs285,
Child: Dhs285
Top Of The Tours
sUndOWneR dUne
dInneR saFaRI
When it comes to the quintessential
desert experience, this best-selling
tour is hard to beat. Venture into the
enigmatic Arabian desert and watch
the sun set over endless dunes; enjoy
an Arabic feast under the stars at a
traditional Bedouin-style camp; and
sample Emirati culture with camel
riding and henna painting.
InCLUdes:
• Dune driving through the desert
• Sunset photo stop in the dunes
• Arabic-style, three-course buffet with
unlimited hops and grape beverages
• Camel rides, falcon-viewing,
sandboarding, henna painting and
aromatic shisha
• Belly dancing performance
• Stargazing
• All inclusive - no hidden costs
• Optional camel milk chocolates and
photos are available for purchase
• A Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari
and City Sightseeing combo ticket is
available
OpTIOnaL UpGRades: Book a private
4x4 vehicle or add a sandboarding
experience before the Sundowner Dune
Dinner Safari.
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Daily (late
afternoon until evening)
WHaT’s InCLUded: Food, soft drinks
and beverages; guided tour; hotel
transfers
a portion of your fee goes towards
supporting local conservation
pRICInG: Adult: Dhs360,
Child (aged 5-11): Dhs300
27
DXB City Expert
Top Of The Tours
28
DXB City Expert
Desert Dune Buggies
Those looking for the ultimate off-road
experience will love this exhilarating
adventure tour. After leaving Dubai
in the morning or afternoon, you’ll
head into the empty desert where the
off-road dune buggies will be waiting.
Then it’s a rollercoaster of a ride over
the dunes in the fully automatic, fourseater vehicles that were built for fun.
incluDes:
• Fully guided tour along the dunes
• Driving and safety instruction provided
• All dune buggies are four-wheeldrive, fully automatic with seat belts,
roll cages and off-road suspension
• Driver experience and passenger
experience options are available
• Shared buggy or private buggy option
• Fantastic desert photo opportunities
Days of operation: Daily (half day,
morning/afternoon)
What’s incluDeD: Soft drinks; guided
tour; hotel transfers
gooD to knoW: Sports shoes
recommended; operates yearround; drivers must be minimum 18
years of age and carry a valid UAE
or international driver’s licence;
passengers must be aged six and above
pricing: Per person (sharing); 30-min
driving time: Adult/Child: Dhs695
Per person (sharing); Passenger:
Adult/Child: Dhs300
Private buggy (for up to 4 pax):
Dhs1,500 per buggy
Top Of The Tours
'neW' dUbaI CIT Y TOUR
With its man-made islands, audacious architecture
and futuristic skyline, Dubai has more than its fair
share of iconic landmarks, and you can tick them
off your list during this tour. Ride the monorail
to Atlantis, The Palm; explore the buzzing Dubai
Marina area; window shop at The Dubai Mall; and
admire the view from the world’s tallest tower.
InCLUdes:
• Visit to The Lost Chambers aquarium
at Atlantis, The Palm
• One-way ride on The Palm Jumeirah monorail
• Drive through Dubai Marina and the
Jumeirah Beach Residence area
• Afternoon visit to The Dubai Mall
• Visit to Burj Khalifa (with option to include
the observation deck ticket)
• Free pickup; tour ends at The Dubai Mall
daYs OF OpeRaTIOn: Daily, except Fri (half day,
morning); Wed, Fri (half day, evening)
WHaT’s InCLUded: Fully-guided tour
modest dress recommended
LanGUaGe: English and German
OTHeR LanGUaGes: French/Italian and Russian
tours operate on Monday and Thursday mornings.
Portuguese and Spanish tours operate on Monday
and Thursday and comprise a full-day tour of ‘old’
and ‘new’ Dubai, including Burj Khalifa, At The
Top
pRICInG FOR enGLIsH/GeRman;
FRenCH/ITaLIan and RUssIan TOUR:
Excluding At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket
pRICInG FOR pORTUGUese/spanIsH TOUR:
Excluding At The Top, Burj Khalifa ticket
To book this tour, call Arabian Adventures
on +971 4 303 4992 or visit arabian-adventures.
com
29
DXB City Expert
30
Where To Eat
DXB City Expert
Chapter THREE
Eat
Dubai’s cultural diversity is reflected in its culinary
mosaic of fantastic restaurants – from the best Indian
food this side of the subcontinent to sleek Japanese
eateries and authentic Arabic mezze. It’s little wonder
that world-renowned chefs are falling over themselves
to open venues in the city. There is something for
every taste in Dubai, so it’s time to tuck in…
IFTAR
OFFERINGS
Ramadan Kareem! Enjoy the
community spirit of Ramadan in Dubai
by attending one of the many Iftar and
Suhoor events held after the sun goes
down. We’ve rounded up a selection
to suit all tastes, with iftars starting at
sunset until around 8-8:30pm, followed
by suhoors until the early hours.
Set on the shore, the Asateer Tent at
Atlantis, The Palm (+971 4 426 0800,
atlantisthepalm.com) is one of Dubai’s
most glamorous Ramadan locations.
The buffet features regional favourites
such as lamb ouzi and fish sayadieh,
along with oud players and traditional
activities such as backgammon. Dhs205
per person.
Also set aside the sea – this time
on a more pristine beach in Ajman,
a 30-minute drive from Downtown
Dubai - is the sea-view Ramadan tent
at Kempinski Hotel Ajman (+971 6
714 5555, kempinski.com/ajman).
The atmospheric tent houses multiple
live-cooking stations and traditional
Arabian entertainment, backed by a
sumptuous iftar buffet that’s available
until 8.30pm (thereafter, à la carte
service commences in the same venue
until 3am). Dhs140 per person.
The ballroom of JW Marriott
Marquis Hotel (+971 4 414 0000,
jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) will
be just as opulent as it is transformed
for Ramadan into a white, gold and
royal blue lounge with live oud music
and a buffet featuring classic Arabic
cuisine. Dhs195 per person.
At sister hotel JW Marriott Hotel
Dubai (+971 4 607 7977, marriott.
com) iftar is served in two spots:
Market Place and Town Square. At
both you can watch as chefs cook up a
storm of traditonal Arabic fare as well
as Indian and Italian dishes. Dhs200 for
two at The Market Place; Dhs150 for
two at Town Square. Dhs45 for kids.
Ritz-Carlton Dubai (+971 4
318 6646, ritzcarlton.com/dubai)
introduces the spectacular Mamemo
Majlis for the month of Ramadan,
replete with specially selected furniture
and works of art. Inside you’ll be
treated to the sight of chefs readying
myriad Arabic dishes from wholesome
ingredients, and musicians playing live.
Dhs220 per adult; Dhs110 per child
over five.
Against the backdrop of the Dubai
Fountain and with subtle Arabesque
design, the Saraya Tent at Armani
Hotel Dubai (+971 4 888 3666, dubai.
armanihotels.com) provides a stylish
setting for seasonal gatherings. There’s
Where To Eat
31
AbOuT THIS CHApTER
During Ramadan, many independent cafés and restaurants only open after sunset.
Hotels (and areas like DIFC) usually have restaurants open for guests during the day,
and will only serve alcohol at night. We’ve included a phone number and it’s wise to
call ahead to confirm the venue is open. Where possible, we've also included a website,
should you wish to look at menus and prices before heading out.
DXB City Expert
Where To Eat
a daily-changing collection of Iftar and
Suhoor menus, as well as a la carte
shisha. Iftar from Dhs250 per person.
Over at the beautiful Park Hyatt
Dubai (+971 4 602 1234, dubai.park.
hyatt.com) iftar is served via live
cooking stations in the stylish setting
of Café Arabesque, from where you can
soak up views of the atmospheric Dubai
Creek. Dhs200 per person.
For another glimpse of old Arabia,
visit the air-conditioned tent at
Al Hadheerah (+971 4 809 6194,
meydanhotels.com) at Bab Al Shams
Desert Resort & Spa. From authentic
Middle Eastern cuisine and live music
to a camel and horse caravan show,
it promises to be a magical evening.
Dhs250 per person.
Meanwhile, a cultural Iftar at
the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for
Cultural Understanding (+971 4
3536666, cultures.ae) provides a
unique opportunity to break the fast
with Emirati locals, who will explain
the UAE’s customs during Ramadan.
From 7pm-9:30pm, Dhs135 per person.
To get a real sense of modern
Dubai, head to the Sky Bubble at The
Meydan Hotel (+971 4 381 3111,
meydanhotels.com), a stunning spot
that offers 360-degree views of the
city. Enjoy a sumptuous Iftar buffet for
Dhs170 per person, followed by à la
carte offerings and shisha for Suhour.
The full flavour of the Middle East is
on offer at H Hotel (+971 4 501 8888,
h-hotel.com) which you'll find at the
prestigious One Sheikh Zayed Road
address. Inside its pop-up marquee,
sharing plates from a particular region
will be offered and changed daily,
ranging from Moroccon to Lebanese,
Egyptian to Turkish and all in between.
This is a great option if you're sampling
Middle Eastern food for the first time.
Dhs170 per person.
For another iftar with a difference,
Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar (+971 4
414 0000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.
com) has a special menu of 11 dishes
celebrating the heritage of Indian
cuisine, with à la carte options available
after 8pm. Dhs325 per person.
If you’re partial to Peruvian, the
always-good Coya (+971 4 316 9600,
32
coyarestaurant.com) has a set menu
offering a choice of four delectable
mains. Dhs240 per person.
The South American twist on Iftar
continues at Gaucho Dubai (971 4
422 7898, gauchorestaurants.com) in
DIFC, where a three-course set menu
is offered. The choices include its famed
full-bodied, beautifully marbled beef.
A TRuE TASTE
OF THE EmIRATES
Considering all of the colourful cuisines
Dubai has to offer, it might come as a
surprise that good Emirati food is not
so easy to come by. However, slowly
but surely more and more authentic
Emirati restaurants are cropping up
across town.
An enduring favourite is Al Fanar
(+971 4 232 9966, alfanarrestaurant.
com) located along Canal Walk in
Festival City. You can dine outside on
floor cushions at the traditional majlis
or at a table in the central courtyard
area that looks like a traditional Emirati
home. The food is fresh and hearty
with dishes such as chicken machboos,
grilled shaari fish and jesheed (baby
shark with onions and punchy spices).
Another place which has started
to pull in its fair share of local Emiratis
(always a good sign) is Al Barza
(+971 4 343 5310) on Jumeirah Beach
Road. The setting is a modern take
on the traditional architecture of the
region, but the food is undeniably
authentic – here you can try camel
meat, at its best in a burger.
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for
Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353
6666, cultures.ae) also offers authentic
Emirati cuisine, but with a welcome
twist. The interactive ‘cultural meals’
they serve – so named because guests
are encouraged to ask questions on
anything that relates to the Emirati
culture – are prepared by local chefs
in order to preserve the traditions and
customs of the Bedouin culture. They
offer cultural breakfast on Mondays
and Wednesdays, cultural lunch on
Sundays and Tuesdays, cultural brunch
every Saturday and a cultural dinner
every Tuesday. Advance booking is
essential for every meal.
DXB City Expert
Where To Eat
33
DXB City Expert
pREVIOuS pAGE:
Coya
THIS pAGE:
Rang Mahal
WIDER (AND
WONDERFul) ARAbIC
While Emirati food may be thin on the
ground, wider Arabic certainly isn’t.
Famed Lebanese import Em Sherif
(+971 4 424 3000, emsherif.com),
which you'll find at ground level of
the Address Downtown Dubai, offers
superb views of Burj Khalifa and The
Dubai Fountain to add to a fixed-price
dinner menu (Dhs320) which sees
hot and cold mezzes, mains of tender,
charcoal-grilled meats and desserts
arrive at your table in a near endless
flow. Meanwhile Olea (+971 4 341
0000, kempinski.com) at Kempinski
Mall of the Emirates prides itself
on authentic cuisine, thanks to its
14-strong team of chefs from Lebanon,
Jordan, Syria and Palestine. Highlights
include the lamb kofta, served on a
1.5-metre-long skewer.
A good place to head with the
family in tow to try myriad Arabic
dishes for the first time is the Friday
Boulevard Kitchen Brunch at Manzil
Downtown Dubai (971 4 888 3444,
vida-hotels.com). While the parents get
adventurous with their tastebuds – and
let the in-house artist decorate their
hands with henna – the kids will be
royally entertained via face painting
and arts and craft. The fun runs from
1pm-4pm.
CElEbRITy-CHEFS'
RESTAuRANTS
Michelin-starred chefs have long been
coming to Dubai to hawk their wares.
Having been one of the first celebrity
chefs to open a restaurant in Dubai
(the now defunct Verre by Gordon
Ramsay, back in 2001), firebrand
Gordon Ramsay has returned to the
emirate with Bread Street Kitchen &
Bar (+971 4 426 2000, atlantisthepalm.
com) at Atlantis, The Palm. Here,
the menu, though for the most part
international, makes more than a nod to
Ramsay’s homeland, but the fact that it
has a bit of everything makes it a neverfail option for families. Don’t be swayed
by Ramsay’s name into thinking that
this is a fine dining and, by extension,
expensive restaurant. This is more
gastro pub and good value, too.
34
Where To Eat
Another Brit chef to cause a stir
in Dubai’s bubbling pot of great
restaurants is Jason Atherton, who
has Marina Social (+971 4 446 6777,
ihg.com) at InterContinental Dubai
Marina. Atherton’s Social concept has
won an army of fans in London, and
while this Dubai offshoot hasn't yet hit
the same dizzy heights it's still a great
spot, particularly if you snag a table on
the terrace. Nobu in Atlantis, The Palm
(+971 4 426 2000, atlantisthepalm.
com) meanwhile, offers a Peruvian
twist on dishes that have made the
Japanese master chef’s restaurant chain
the toast of celebrities the world over.
This Nobu boasts a unique garden,
which is a great place to dine under
the stars.
For a luxe contemporary dining
experience from the subcontinent,
head to Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar
at JW Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414
3000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com).
Here, the menu sings with a cacophony
of flavour and creativity, and we heartily
recommend the very well-priced grazing
menu. Every bite is a delight.
Lastly, Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire
(+971 4 701 1111, pierre-gagnaire.
com) remains one of the longestrunning and most renowned
restaurants in Dubai. The Frenchman
makes a point of visiting his restaurant
at least once a year (more than most),
and the chefs onsite have all been
trained by him personally. It shows.
The ever-changing menus are exquisite
examples of fusion fare.
lOVEly lATIN
AmERICAN
Just like other cities across the world,
Dubai is currently in love with Peruvian
food. In fact, a few of the city’s hotright-now restaurants serve authentic
examples of this fabulous cuisine, which
puts melt-in-your-mouth meat to good
use as much as the freshest fish. While
you’ll be right to love Coya (+971 4
316 9600, coyarestaurant.com) at the
Four Seasons Dubai, we have a thing for
the more casual Garden (+971 56 224
0956, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com)
at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai.
Here the chef is Peruvian, the staff are
DXB City Expert
ClOCKWISE FROm
bElOW: Bateaux
Dubai; JW Marriott
Marquis; Zuma
fully knowledgeable of what they’re
serving, and the vibe relaxed.
Save room in your affections too for
Inka (+971 4 346 9295, inkadubai.
com) at Sofitel Downtown Dubai. The
intimate dining room is complemented
by super nice staff and a lounge area
that’s perfect for pre- or post-dinner
drinks (and fine views of Burj Khalifa),
while their chilli-laced rocoto ceviche
and chicken anticuchos are divine.
pERFECT
pIzzAS
For a quick and casual meal, you can’t
look past a pizza. Dubai has plenty
of places serving up crisp crusts and
superlative sourdough bases with
nary a pineapple in sight. The upstairs
pizzeria at Bussola (+971 4 511 7136,
bussoladubai.com) at The Westin Dubai
Mina Seyahi has long been a favourite.
Crusts are thin and crispy and toppings
generous, with over 30 varieties
to choose from. The open kitchen,
complete with chefs tossing dough into
the air, adds to the atmosphere.
For a crisp, yet foldable New Yorkstyle pie that pays homage to its
Neapolitan roots, say hi to The Pizza
Guys (800 843 4897, thepizzaguys.ae)
at Bay Avenue in Business Bay. There
are five signature pizzas, all of which
are hand-tossed and finished with
Italian extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil
and parmigiano reggiano. Our tip? Pull
up a stool at the communal counter
and order The Godfather (Dhs60) with
wagyu beef meatballs and melted fior di
latte mozzarella. Bellissimo.
Where To Eat
35
DXB City Expert
ASK A TOp CHEF
Jerome Lagarde, At.mosphere
Burj Khalifa
The best meal I’ve had in
Dubai was at Reflets par
Pierre Gagnaire (+971 4
701 1111, pierre-gagnaire.
com). For light bites and
drinks, 101 Dining Lounge
and Bar (+971 4 440 1030,
oneandonlyresorts.com) is a
perfect location for chilling
out while enjoying a nice cigar.
If you still want to squeeze into
your swimsuit, Nonno (800 696 66
66, nonnopizza.com) is a chic pizzeria,
also in Business Bay, specialising in
paper-thin crusts with no sugar or salt.
Sauces are made from scratch and go
straight from blender to base, toppings
are super fresh and some pizzas come in
at less than 400 calories. That doesn’t
mean they’re boring, though. Try the
Absolutely Fabulous (Dhs48) with
slow-roasted free-range chicken.
Down in JLT, Jazz@Pizza Express
(+971 4 441 6342, pizzaexpressuae.
com) remains a popular pizza joint.
For anyone familiar with the UK brand
there are no surprises in store, but the
pizzas are fresh, flavoursome and a cut
above your average chain. They also
have a great deal on drinks from 4pm.
WHAT’S NEW
IN TOWN?
Dubai's ever-advancing gastro scene
sees a raft of new restaurants opening
each month. Here's our pick of those
just opened...
Another month, another Peruvian
restaurant opens its doors in Dubai.
Hoping to follow where all have
succeeded so far is Totora Cebicheria
Peruana (totora.com) at Gate Village,
DIFC. A restaurant and bar set over
two floors, the highend offerings here
are created from Peruvian ingredients
and balance beautifully with an
inventive cocktail list. Get here before
the It Crowd takes over.
Traditional Emirati fare is the
offering of Aseelah (+971 4 205
7333, radissonblu.com/hotel-
dubaideiracreek) at Radisson
Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek. In
additional to listing traditional dishes
on the menu (like samak, a local fish
in gravy served with date rice) are
dishes made using local ingredients
(including camel stew). Go on,
be brave. It'll make for a great
holiday anecdote.
Over at the newly created Pearl
Jumeira, Satine (+971 4 376 6168,
satinebynikkibeach.com) is the first
restaurant to open at the new Nikki
Beach Dubai. Inspired by Nicole
Kidman’s character from the hit movie
Moulin Rouge, the stylish restaurant
has a Med-influenced menu and a
large outdoor terrace facing the sea.
This place buzzes at the weekend, so
book ahead for then.
36
Where To Eat
DINNER WITH AN
INCREDIblE VIEW
One of the most striking spots in
Dubai to enjoy outdoor dining is on the
westernmost tip of Palm Jumeirah –
from here you get to drink in pictureperfect views of Dubai Marina and Burj
Al Arab. Just off a jetty that juts out
into the azure waters of the Arabian
Gulf, lies 101 Dining Lounge and Bar
at One&Only The Palm Dubai (+971
440 1010, thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.
com). This sparkling, shimmering
venue serves sublime contemporary
European fare from a menu that has
been rubber-stamped by French superchef Yannick Alléno – here we enjoyed
the softest squid we’ve ever tasted. The
whole experience can be heightened
by catching a boat to the restaurant
from sister hotel One&Only Royal
Mirage. Booking is essential, as is a preboarding drink in the Jetty Lounge.
If you want a fine vantage point to
see the Dubai Fountain dance its way
toward the night sky – and believe
us, you do – book a table at Thiptara
(+971 4 888 3444, theaddress.com)
at The Palace Downtown Dubai. The
name Thiptara means 'magic at the
water' and the traditional Thai recipes
with Bangkok-style influences are as
magical as the setting.
Nothing tops the view of Burj
Khalifa that's served up – along with
incredibly good food – at Katana
(+971 427 78808, katana-dubai.com).
Hailing from LA's sunset strip – Katana
specialises in the ‘robatayaki’ style of
authentic Japanese cuisine, whereby
bamboo skewered gourmet fish, meat
and vegetables are grilled over a
charcoal-induced open flame.
It's fabulous.
How about dining as if under
the sea? Of course it’s possible: this
is Dubai. A whole-wall aquarium
forms the backdrop to a meal at the
excellent Ossiano (+971 4 426 2000,
atlantisthepalm.com) at Atlantis, The
Palm. Your credit card will enjoy a good
workout here, but hey, you’re
on holiday.
For something altogether different
try a dinner as you float down Dubai
Creek in a boat-turned-restaurant,
taking in the sights of 'old' Dubai
as you feast on fine dining dishes
like baked chermoula prawns with
a wonderful ginger and coriander
couscous. This is Bateaux Dubai
(advance bookings via +971 4 303
4992, arabian-adventures.com),
where boarding is at 7.45pm nightly
and disembarking at 11pm. This
month, Bateaux Dubai operates until
June 12, setting sail again on June 29.
DINING IN
THE DESERT
For an atmospheric Arabian Desert
experience, head to Al Hadheerah
(+971 4 809 6194, meydanhotels.
com) at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
and Spa, about 30 minutes’ drive
from Downtown. Designed like an
oasis town, guests at the open-air
restaurant are entertained under
the stars by falconry displays, camel
rides, belly dancers, musicians and a
spinning tanoura dancer. There’s also
an impressive buffet overflowing with
hot and cold mezze, Arabic sweet
treats such as baklava and kunafa,
along with live cooking stations
serving up shish taouk and slowroasted lamb ouzi.
If you’re after a more romantic
setting, Arabian Adventures (+971 4
303 4992, Arabian-adventures.com)
offers a private desert safari through
the Dubai Desert Conservation
Reserve, followed by a gourmet
dinner – reached on camel back –
at your very own, torch-lit Bedouin
camp. On the menu are grilled meats,
fresh salads, delectable sweets and
unlimited house beverages, followed
by an aromatic shisha pipe if you
so wish.
The luxurious Al Maha Desert
Resort (+971 4 832 9900, al-maha.
com), which overlooks the Dubai
Desert Conservation Reserve around
65km southeast of Dubai, also offers
a private dune dining experience.
Available for in-house guests and
those staying elsewhere, your private
tent features Persian carpets, plump
cushions and flickering flame torches,
while dishes include Arabic mezze and
Catalan seafood stew.
DXB City Expert
ClOCKWISE FROm
bElOW:
Katana; Catch;
JB's Gastropub;
Gaucho Dubai
Where To Eat
37
DXB City Expert
FOR SOmE
FAmIly FuN
As mentioned elsewhere, The Beach at
JBR is a great place to head for a family
dinner. But there are other places
worthy of your attention, particularly
if your kids are that little bit older. If
you tend to take an age to decide what
to order, then Burger & Lobster (+971
4 514 8838, burgerandlobster.com)
at Burj Daman Building, DIFC, is the
place to head. Here, you have only three
choices, each priced at Dhs127: whole
lobster (steamed or grilled) with chips
and salad; lobster roll with chips and
salad; or beef burger (cooked medium
or well done) with, you guessed it,
chips and salad. Despite the brevity of
options, it’s actually difficult to decide
as all three are top notch (the burger’s
big and packed with flavour), but if you
pushed us we’d recommend the whole
lobster. Not only is the meat supremely
succulent, but it’s also great fun to
don a bib and get to work with your
claw cracker. You’ll love the vibrant
atmosphere here, too.
You’ll find Crab Tavern (+971 4
420 7489, crabtavern.ae) at Media
One Hotel in Dubai Media City. Crab,
you’ve guessed it, is the house speciality
here, and it comes served many ways
– in pasta, as a fish cake, or, best of
all, the soft-shell variety comes in a
burger laced with red pepper jam. Of
the same ilk is Claw BBQ (+971 4
432 2300, clawbbq.com) in Souq Al
Bahar, although it’s a tad more raucous
than Crab Tavern thanks to its eating
competitions and live band.
They’ve been known to queue out
of the door to snag a table at Slider
Station (600 544 005, sliderstation.
com) in the Galleria Mall on Al Wasl
Road, which proudly claims to be the
world’s first conveyor-belt burger
joint. It’s much more than that,
offering a fun American tapas menu
(the likes of sticky red onion rings
and Coca Cola-braised short ribs) to
complement décor based on a 1940s
American petrol station. Grab a gourmet
slider from its unique, if small, conveyor
belt – we say reach for the so-called
Dangerous, featuring buttermilk fried
chicken, jalapeno and chimichurri aioli.
Where To Eat
38
DXB City Expert
ASK A TOp CHEF
Andy Toh Chye Siong,
Hakkasan
Gastronomically, Dubai has
become very dynamic with
new openings every month.
I find myself re-visiting Thai
origin restaurants, a style
of cuisine that is very close
to my heart. Lemongrass
(lemongrassrestaurants.com)
and Pai Thai (+971 4 432
3232, jumeirah.com) are my
favourites.
SOmEWHERE SImplE
WITH yOuNG KIDS
Eating at your hotel can be expensive
– especially if you have a whole
family to feed – but fear not: Dubai
has plenty of options for good value,
great quality fare. Ideal for tiny tots
is bookstore-slash-café BookMunch
in Al Wasl Square (+971 4 388 4006,
bookmunchcafe.com). It serves up tasty
treats (try the blueberry pancakes)
and stocks plenty of children’s books,
ensuring your kids get food for thought
as well as the belly. Bystro (+971 336
8056, bystrodubai.com) on Sheikh
Zayed Road offers a special kids’ corner
featuring mini tables and chairs, as well
as toys and books. The food will please
kids and adults alike; choose from
sandwiches, great breakfast options,
weekend roasts, and – intriguingly –
dinosaur ribs.
Baker & Spice’s (+971 4 362 4686,
bakerandspice.com) Marina Promenade
location in Dubai Marina is arguably
the pick of the chain’s four venues in
the city – you'll get to enjoy views of
the yachts while eating tasty homestyle dishes, the ingredients for which
are often drawn from local farms.
There’s no dedicated kids’ menu here,
but on offer are smaller portions of
main dishes, including a fine spaghetti
and meatballs.
Over at Italian restaurant Sapori Di
Bice (+971 4 344 2550, saporidibice.
com) at City Walk, kids get to create
their own pizzas, with multiple funshaped bases on offer.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for
somewhere to eat with your baby,
try Pantry Café (+971 4 388 3868,
pantrycafe.me) on Al Wasl Road. While
you enjoy wholesome, locally-sourced
food, your baby will get messy sucking
on free veggie puree.
With its seaside location at The
Beach JBR and double-height dining
space lined with bookshelves, Big Chefs
(+971 4 5515302, bigchefs.co) has a
stylish, yet homely feel. The huge menu
has over 145 dishes across a multitude
of cuisines, from Turkish and Arabic
to Tex-Mex and European, along with
a separate kids’ menu, meaning you’re
bound to find something for even the
fussiest of eaters. Just be sure they leave
room for dessert – the Oreo Nutella
cheesecake is one your kids won’t
want to share.
HEAD TO
pIER 7
It’s a pier, it has 7 floors. That’s the
reason for its name covered off. But
what’s of real note here is that each
floor is devoted to a different-style
restaurant. It’s also the only licensed
premises on Marina Walk in Dubai
Marina. And so to the good stuff...
The Scene (+971 422 2328,
thescenedubai.com) by TV chef and
serial author Simon Rimmer is the
frontrunner here. British-style comfort
food is the jist of it – think succulent,
deep-filled pies, feather-light battered
fish and chunky chips – but if you
want something less filling, the grilled
halloumi, pear and salted hazelnut salad
is delicious.
No prizes for guessing the cuisine
cooked up at the excellent Asia Asia
(+971 4 276 5900, asia-asia.com), but
there might be a prize if you can find
a dish, anywhere, that tickles your
tastebuds as much as their tiger prawn
Kerala masala. Meanwhile, if you want
a side order of animated atmosphere
with your mains of slow-cooked prime
beef back ribs, then head to Cargo
(+971 4 361 8129, cargo-dubai.com).
39
Promotion
What To Do
DXB City Expert
paradise found
Treat yourself to a glorious stay and Iftar by the ocean this Ramadan
K
empinski Hotel Ajman is only
a 30-minute drive away from
Downtown Dubai and 20 minutes
from Dubai International Airport. This
resort is tailored to meet your every
need, complete with a 500m whitesand private beach and endless leisure
facilities, as well as 166 rooms and 14
suites featuring modern Arabic decor
and overlooking the Arabian Gulf. If
you are looking for a seaside beach hotel
where you awaken to the sounds of the
waves lapping the shore, or a romantic
getaway from the outside world, look
Play Video
no further: here your every whim is
catered to with the utmost luxury.
The organic Italian restaurant
is made for indulgent weekends
throughout the month of Ramadan,
as the New York-style Italian brunch
unveils its delicacies every Friday
(1-4pm), offering an unforgettable
dining experience with live-cooking
stations and dazzling entertainment.
Meanwhile, the best live football from
EURO 2016 is brought to you by the
Euro Village in World Cup Bar, offering
speciality dishes and daily lucky draws
kempinskihotelajman
KempinskiAjman
with exciting prizes, whilst showing
all the matches on three large screens
(daily, 6pm-2am). The attraction of the
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tent in the Northern Emirates, where
a lavish spread of traditional Iftar
treats, live-cooking show kitchens
and authentic Arabian entertainment
create the perfect setting for 250 guests
at the city’s most exquisite venue.
Iftar buffet at the sea-view Ramadan
tent is daily from sunset to 8.30pm. Room
rates are AED350 (T&C apply), call
+971 6 714 5555
kempinskihotelajman
kempinski.com/ajman
40
Where To Eat
NICE AND
SpICy
An offshoot of its New Yorkbased, Michelin-star toting elder
sibling, Junoon (+971 4 405 2717,
junoonrestaurants.com) at Shangri-La
Dubai is a standout example of how,
when it’s done as well as this, there are
few finer cuisines than Indian when it
comes to robust flavour combinations.
Let your waiter guide you through the
must-haves (there are many) but have
stern words if he fails to mention the
Shahi Lamb Shank – as tender a meat
as you’ll ever try, it comes, teased from
the bone at your table, with a beautifully
balanced black cumin rose curry. You’ll
also adore the Macchi Masala: panroasted, flake-at-the-touch-of-a-fork
artic char that’s coated in a wonderful
green chili coriander marinade.
Tong Thai at JW Marriott
Marquis (+971 4 414 3000,
jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com),
meanwhile, showcases unique regional
Thai dishes alongside street food
favourites and authentic yet inventive
classics we all know and love. Regularly
voted the best Thai restaurant in the
city, signature curries like creamy
Panang Kung with tiger prawns and Gai
Phad Ka-Prao with chili and hot basil
pack plenty of depth and flavour, while
classics like Tom Yum and Pad See-Eiw
have been honed to perfection. The
dining room itself is glorious riot of red
and orange hues, with glittering lanterns
suspended from the ceiling and floor-toceiling windows overlooking Business
Bay, albeit only from the fourth floor.
FOR DubAI’S ANSWER
TO STREET FOOD
With gourmet food trucks rolling
out across Dubai at an astonishing
rate, there’s bound to be one on the
tarmac (or sand) near you. Stalwart
Ghaf Kitchen (+971 4 443 0355,
ghafkitchen.com) was the first
restaurant-on-wheels concept in the
city and serves a variety of British
classics with a decadent twist, all
supplied from a lovingly restored retro
Citroen H van. The truck travels to
various events across the city so keep
an eye on its Facebook and Twitter
DXB City Expert
ClOCKWISE FROm INSET: La Serre; Marina
Social; Sumosan
accounts to discover where it's at.
Shiny new truck Calle Tacos (+971
55 171 5712, calletacos.ae) dishes up
street-side tacos, nachos and burritos
complete with utterly delicious salsa –
handmade from a secret family recipe.
Look out for the bright orange truck
at Ripe Market, Dubai World Trade
Centre, and many of the city's big
festivals – it's hard to miss. Another
one to add to the list is the hugely
popular Salt (instagram.com/FindSalt).
With its silver Airstream parked
permanently at Kite Beach alongside
an air-conditioned glass-walled terrace,
it serves just three types of gourmet
sliders packed with flavour. There’s also
a mobile truck that pops up at Dubai’s
coolest events – follow it on Instagram
to get the exact location.
Also along Jumeirah Beach Road, and
at the opposite end of the glitz in
Dubai's dining spectrum, is Bu Qtair
(+971 55 705 2130), which has
drawn a devoted following for more
than two decades. While it’s recently
upgraded from its original beach shack
to a simple restaurant in the nearby
fishing harbour, it continues to attract
crowds who queue for the freshest
prawns and catch of the day, both of
which are served with curry sauce,
rice and bread
SO yOu CAN SAy
yOu’VE bEEN THERE
If you only know a handful of things
about Dubai, one may be that it’s
the home of Burj Al Arab, that most
famous of hotels. You’ll doubtless leave
Dubai with a picture of yourself posing
against a backdrop of it, but why not go
Where To Eat
41
DXB City Expert
GRApE EXpECTATIONS
Alcohol is only served in
restaurants based within
licensed premises, which
basically means a hotel.
A handful of exceptions
include restaurants based
at DIFC. Where sold, you'll
likely find wine expensive.
During Ramadan, alcohol
will only be served after
sunset.
the whole hog and dine there? The best
way to experience the culinary offering
of the Burj is via its Culinary Flight:
your dinner begins with a cocktail at
Skyview Bar before you embark on
a journey through five grape-paired
courses at five different restaurants.
The food is superb and the service
exceptional. You'll perhaps only find
fault with the changing ambience (from
the perfect to the poor) as you move
through restaurants. It costs Dhs1,350
per person from 7pm-midnight.
You’ll need to book ahead to dine at
the world’s highest restaurant, which
spans much of level 122 of the Burj
Khalifa, but you’ll be glad you’ve done
so. You arrive at At.mosphere (+971
4 888 3828, atmosphereburjkhalifa.
com) via the world's fastest elevator,
before settling down in the swankiest of
settings to enjoy the finest cuts of meat
and fish to grace a menu.
bIG, bEAuTIFul
buRGERS
Brilliant burgers aren’t confined to
the menus of Dubai’s hotel-based
restaurants. In fact, the city’s best
burgers are served in stand-alone
venues. This is certainly true of Burger
Fuel (+971 4 445 8220, burgerfuel.
com), which has various branches
across the city – the best of which,
due to it being beside the sea, is at
The Walk, JBR. The concept is 100%
New Zealand grass-fed beef, a 1/3
pound patty of which is chargrilled
to perfection and placed within a
wholemeal bun. Thereafter, you can
pick multiple extras to stuff inside.
The emphasis at Burger Joint New
York (+971 4 344 4459, burgerjointny.
com), which you’ll find at City Walk,
is on quality alone, with the options
limited to just hamburgers and
cheeseburgers. Their meat is minced
on the premises to ensure consistency
of flavour.
Moylo’s (+971 4 388 3140,
moylosburgers.com) is a homegrown,
hole-in-the-wall joint on Jumeirah
Beach Road, just down from Sunset
Mall. Quirky and colourful with an
industrial edge, it features a wire
counter covered in padlocks customised
by patrons (including one by Dubai’s
Crown Price, Sheikh Hamdan). There
are five burgers to choose from,
including the new Truffle Shuffle with
100% Wagyu Beef and homemade
truffle mayo, and three milkshakes (we
say salted caramel all the way).
Where To Eat
IT'S All
GREEK TO mE
If you’re hankering for some Hellenic
flavours, you’ll be pleased to learn
that, while Dubai is not exactly
overflowing with Greek restaurants,
it does boast some truly excellent
ones. In-the-know locals will point
you towards Elia (+971 4 359
8888, dubaimajestic.com), a cosy
restaurant with a lovely glass terrace
surrounded by greenery in the
somewhat incongruous setting of the
Majestic Hotel in bustling Bur Dubai.
In the kitchen is Cretan head chef,
Poppy Kourkoutaki, while charming
restaurant manager (and fellow Crete
local), Margianna Mavridou, heads
up the front of house team. The menu
by Elia’s celebrity chef consultant,
Yiannis Baxevanis, is divided into
Greek classics – the cheese saganaki
and chicken souvlaki are standouts – and more contemporary
interpretations such as slow-cooked
veal cheeks with eggplant puree.
Don’t leave without trying the freshly
baked carob bread.
From the same team, Mythos
Kouzina & Grill (+971 4 399 8166,
mythoskouzina.com) feels like a little
slice of Santorini hidden away in
JLT’s Armada Bay Hotel. Kitted out
like a traditional seaside taverna with
whitewashed walls, rustic furniture
and light blue banquettes, the simple
menu is a mix of traditional dishes
such as keftedakia (meatballs) and
grilled calamari, together with homestyle favourites like mousaka and
gigandes (butter beans). The word is
out about this well-priced gem, so be
sure to book ahead.
Down at The Beach at JBR, Eat
Greek Kouzina (+971 4 430 5249,
eatgreekkouzina.com) has a more
urban feel with distressed wood floors,
exposed brickwork, and a beautiful
sea view. The large menu has all the
classics, including salads, hot and cold
appetisers, gyros and souvlaki stuffed
pittas, as well as mixed grills, seafood,
fish, lamb and even burgers. It’s open
for breakfast from 8.30am, and there’s
a second branch in the Mall of the
Emirates, too.
42
DXB City Expert
43
Where To Eat
DXB City Expert
pREVIOuS pAGE,
lEFT TO RIGHT: JW
Steakhouse; Satine
THIS pAGE: Novikov
TOp
TApAS
With an open kitchen, funky murals
and baskets hanging from the high
ceilings, Salero Tapas & Bodega
(+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at
Kempinski Mall of the Emirates looks
more hipster eatery than traditional
tapas joint. However, the all-Spanish
staff, led by head chef Oscar Leon,
ensure the no-nonsense, garlicsmothered tapas are entirely authentic.
There’s a great selection of hot and cold
tapas such as Galician-style octopus
and pork cold cuts, along with three
types of paella and a separate kids’
menu. The vibe is relaxed and casual,
with flamenco on Wednesdays from
8pm and a resident DJ.
Casa de Tapas (+971 4 416 1800,
casadetapas.ae) at Dubai Creek Golf
and Yacht Club has lovely views over
the Creek and a large upside-down
lemon tree sprouting from the ceiling.
The menu is packed with classics,
including Spanish omelette and garlicky
steamed clams, along with more
inventive dishes such as paella de fideua
(made with angel hair pasta, squid ink
and prawns) – reportedly the only place
in Dubai where this delicacy is served.
BOCA (+971 4 323 1833, boca.ae)
in DIFC, meanwhile, strays from Spain
to include sharing plates from Italy
and France on its menu too. From Med
staples such as sweet Padrón peppers
and grilled sardines to 12-hour braised
lamb and lobster ravioli, dishes are
served as they’re ready making for a
relaxed, grazing-style meal. The menu
also has a raw section with carpaccios,
crudos and tartars, along with a
22-strong list of grape available by the
glass. Choose a spot at the buzzing bar
or outdoor terrace, or head down to
the cellar for a food and grape pairing
experience hosted by the sommelier.
COOl
CAFéS
Craving a good cup of coffee or a slapup breakfast? Newly opened at City
Walk, the al fresco shopping and dining
district in Jumeirah, The Brass (+971
4 385 6971, thebrass.ae) features
gorgeous golden interiors and an
extensive menu of speciality brews such
as lavender honey lattes and Arabic
coffee flavoured with cardamom, along
with pastries, cakes, salads, sandwiches
and flatbreads.
Meanwhile, The Majlis Dubai
(themajlisdubai.com) in the grounds of
Jumeirah Mosque bills itself as the city’s
“first and finest camel milk café”. Come
here to try the signature camelccino or
camellatte made with specially roasted
Ethiopian coffee beans and deliciously
smooth camel milk, along with Arabic
coffee served from a traditional dallah
pot, and muffins, éclairs and ice cream
made from, you guessed it, camel milk.
Leading the way when it comes to
hipster cafés, The Sum of Us (+971
56 445 7526, thesumofusdubai.com)
in the Burj Al Salam building behind
the Sheraton Hotel has industrial-chic
interiors, a sourdough bakery and
its own coffee roastery. As you can
imagine, it smells pretty good – throw
in an inviting menu of breakfast, lunch
and dinner dishes, such as French toast
with salted caramel sauce or Parmesan
crusted chicken breast, and you can see
why it’s one of Dubai’s most popular
spots (open daily from 8am–10pm). If
you’re in need of sustenance between
bouts of shopping at the Mall of the
Emirates, stop by sister café, Common
Grounds (+971 5 0478 1094), near
the Vox cinema, for top-notch coffee,
superfood salads and delicious burgers
and baguettes.
44
Where To Eat
MIRDIF
DXB City Expert
MUHAISNAH
11
27
12
14
13
12
Dubai
International
Airport
AL TWAR
11
To Sharjah
5
8
16
AL ITTIHAD
ROAD
17
RASHIDIYA
12
13
NAD AL SHEBA
14
22
DEIRA
HOR AL ANZ
16
18
15
18
30
10
19
2
30
29
16
17
20 18
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21
At The Top
Dubai
Creek
13
22
26
11
25
23
Meydan
2
19
23
9
6
Z A’ A B E E L
20
21
3
Burj Khalifa >
22
BUR DUBAI
24
33
28
27
23
SHEIKH RASHID
ROAD >
15
1
25
4
MAP 1
20
29
31
13
24
AL SATWA
26
50
AL KHAIL RO
Business
Bay
21
AL QUOZ
26
Port Rashid
7
Public Beach
28
29
MAP 2
< SHEIKH ZAY
Shopping
Metro (red line)
Metro (green line)
1 Al Dhiyafa Centre
11 Rashidiya
11 Etisalat
2 Al Ghurair City
12 Emirates
12 Al Qusais
3 Al Khaleej Centre
13 Terminal 3
13 DAFZA
4 Al Mazaya Centre
14 Terminal 1
14 Al Nahda
5 Al Mulla Plaza
15 GGICO
15 Stadium
6 Al Rais Centre
16 Deira City Centre
16 Al Qiyadah
7 Beach Centre
17 Al Rigga
17 Abu Hail
8 Bin Sougat
18 Union Square
18 Abu Baker Al Siddique
9 BurJuman Centre
19 BurJuman
19 Salah Al Din
10 Deira City Centre
20 ADCB
20 Union
11 Deira Gold Souk
21 Al Jafiliya
21 Baniyas Square
12 Dragon Mart
22 World Trade Centre
22 Palm Deira
13 The Dubai Mall
23 Emirates Towers
23 Al Ras
14 Dubai Outlet Mall
24 Financial Centre
24 Al Ghubaiba
JUMEIRAH
U
Public Beach
23
33
The World
RTA Ferry
15 Emirates Towers Boulevard 25 Burj Khalifa / The Dubai Mall 25 Al Fahidi
16 Dubai Festival City
26 Business Bay
26 BurJuman
17 Dubai Marina Mall
29 Noor Bank
27 Oud Metha
18 Hamarain Centre
31 FGB
28 Dubai Healthcare City
19 Ibn Batuta Mall
32 Mall of Emirates
29 Al Jadaf
20 Jumeirah Centre
33 Sharaf DG
30 Creek
21 Jumeriah Plaza
34 Dubai Internet City
22 Festival Centre
35 Nakheel
23 Lamcy Plaza
36 DAMAC Properties
24 Lulu Centre
37 Jumeirah Lakes Towers
25 Mall of the Emirates
38 Nakheel Harbour & Tower
26 Mercato Mall
39 Ibn Batuta Mall
27 Mirdif City Centre
40 Energy
28 Oasis Centre
41 Jebel Ali Industrial
29 Palm Strip
42 UAE Exchange
30 Reef Mall
31 Souk Al Bahar
32 Souk Madinat Jumeirah
33 Wafi City Mall
Palm
45
Where To Eat
DXB City Expert
14
IN
A
AL
City
IMG Theme Park
AD
RO
MAP
Em
irate
sR
oad
Global Village
3
5
4
9
12
13
16
Arabian Adventures
Information Desks
Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr
Atlantis, The Palm
Anantara The Palm
Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel
Fairmont The Palm
Grand Hyatt Dubai
Hilton Dubai Jumeriah Resort
17
18
20
23
25
28
Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Residence
Hyatt Regency Dubai
JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
JA Oasis Beach Tower
31 Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa
33 Madinat Jumeirah Mina A’Salam
36 One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai
50 Arabian Adventures Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai World
Central >
EI
SH
Arabian Ranches
KH
ED
M
M
HA
O
M
BI
N
D
YE
ZA
RO
AD
OAD
Dubai Autodrome
Sports City
YED ROAD
31
24
UMM
SUQEIM
32
AL BARSHA
25
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32
3
34
AL SUFOUH
35
36
36
4
37
9
12
17
31
28
38
19
25
17
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39
5
Jumeirah
Dubai Marina
MAP 3
To Jebel Ali >
MAP 4
To Jebel Ali Golf
Resort & Spa >
20
Jebel Ali Palm >
PLEASE NOTE This illustration of Dubai is not drawn to scale and bears no accurate perspective to anything. Illustrated by Russ North
©Copyright 2014 Emirates
Where To Eat
bRIllIANT
bAR FOOD
If you’re looking for somewhere to
watch the Euro 2016 tournament
– group matches kick off at 6pm,
9pm or midnight local time – or just
after a casual meal, Dubai’s bars and
pubs offer a plethora of delicious
light bites. For a laidback affair, head
to Bidi Bondi (+971 4 427 0515,
emiratesleisureretail.com) on the trunk
of Palm Jumeirah. With national flags
hanging from the walls and plenty of
television screens, the massive menu
features kangaroo sliders, Queensland
lamb cutlets and New Zealand grass-fed
rump steak alongside plenty of familiar
bar staples.
Down at JBR, JB’s Gastropub
(+971 4 428 3084, rotana.com) at
Amwaj Rotana is about as far from the
traditional image of greasy onion rings
and soggy nachos as you can get. The
selection of cheese and cured meats
on display will seriously tempt you,
or there are more substantial menu
options such as smoked beef brisket
sandwich, steamed Mediterranean
mussels, and build-your-own mac
and cheese.
Hugely popular with residents of The
Lakes community near Emirates Golf
Club, Reform Social & Grill (+971 4
4542638, reformsocialgrill.ae) offers
a classic ‘Best of British’ menu, along
with summer salads and sharing plates.
There’s also an air-conditioned tent
where you can watch all the action
during Euro 2016.
The menu at The Black Lion
(+971 4 359 2366, theblacklion.
ae) at The H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed
Road, meanwhile, takes you from late
breakfast through to the wee small
hours. Munch on Korean short rib buns
and salt beef sandwiches, or pitch up
here for the all-day roast served from
midday until 11.30pm on Saturdays
and Sundays.
Moving Downtown, The Eloquent
Elephant (+971 4 438 3131, tajhotels.
com) at Taj Dubai is a contemporarystyled gastropub complete with
filament light bulbs, industrial stools,
and leather barstools. On the menu
you’ll find posh grub including truffle
46
chips, fresh burrata with heirloom
tomatoes, and lamb pate with
Indian spices.
Take a break from shopping and visit
Brunswick Sports Club (+971 56 404
0685, brunswicksc.com) at Sheraton
Dubai Mall of the Emirates for ribs,
crisp squid, fried chicken and some of
the best burgers in town.
At the opposite end of Mall of the
Emirates, Après (+971 4 341 2575,
emiratesleisureretail.com) is the
UAE’s only après-ski gastropub. With
an international menu, there’s plenty
to choose from, but the stone-fired
pizzas are easily some of the best in
the city. Couples should plump for
the traditional Swiss cheese fondue
and tuck in as you watch Ski Dubai’s
snowboarders swoosh down the slopes
in front of you.
DIVINE DIm Sum,
AND THEN SOmE
No self-respecting cosmopolitan
city can call itself a self-respecting
cosmopolitan city unless it has
a Hakkasan (+971 4 384 8484,
hakkasan.com). Happily, Dubai does
(at Jumeirah Emirates Towers) and the
high-end chain doesn’t disappoint with
its chic contemporary Chinese décor,
expertly-made dim sum and oh-so
fashionable bar.
Shang Palace (+971 4 405 2703,
shangri-la.com) at the Shangri-La
Dubai is an old favourite which never
fluctuates from serving up outstanding
examples of Cantonese cuisine: case in
point, the signature cod fish with grapes
and well-balanced orange sauce.
If you’re feeling decadent,
head to Shiba (+971 4 381 3111,
meydanhotels.com) at The Meydan
Hotel. Chinese meets Japanese on the
menu here, with some superb examples
of big-hitting dishes from each – the
never-fail miso-marinated black cod
reprenting Japan; the stir-fried fresh
scallops with a tongue-numbing XO
sauce in the Chinese corner.
For a budget-friendly, brilliant
and authentic Chinese restaurant
experience, head to China Sea (+971
4 295 9816) in Deira – go Peking duck
before heading upstairs for karaoke.
DXB City Expert
47
Where To Eat
DXB City Expert
THIS pAGE:
Tortora
SuCCulENT
STEAK
Most high-end hotels in Dubai are
endowed with a high-end steakhouse
offering premium beef staples like
wagyu that are far from cheap. But,
budget aside, there are some brilliant
steaks to be had in this city.
Heading up our list of top tables is
Prime68 (+971 4 414 3000,
jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at
JW Marriott Marquis, which is a cut
above (pun intended). The premium
beef here is sourced from choice
suppliers across the globe and tastes
sublime, matched by the views from
the 68th floor. Accompaniments such
as black truffle butter add a little extra
oomph, while add-ons like lobster tails
and crab cake are an indulgent treat.
Overlooking the famous horseracing
track, Prime Steakhouse (+971 4
381 3111, meydanhotels.com) at
The Meydan Hotel is a destination
restaurant that never fails to impress.
With plush décor, low lighting and
a pianist tinkling on the ivories, this
romantic spot serves only the finest
cuts of premium beef sourced from
around the world including Tajima
Wagyu and grain-fed Black Angus.
With throne-like chairs and informed
service, you’ll feel like royalty when
dining here.
Opened in 1996, JW’s Steakhouse
(+971 4 607 7977, marriottdiningatjw.
ae) is a Dubai institution, and rightly
so. Chef Mohammad Iqbal has been
in the kitchen from day one and
knows each of his (many) regulars’
preferences by heart – it’s so popular
that every table is adorned with brass
plaques with the names of diners who
always sit at the same spot. With wood
panelling, overstuffed armchairs, a long
mahogany bar and Frank Sinatra tunes
playing in the background, the décor of
this classy steakhouse sets the tone. The
menu features the finest cuts cooked
to perfection, while seafood lovers can
choose Maine lobsters and Dungeness
crabs straight from the tank. For steaks
that cut like butter and excellent service,
JW’s is pretty hard to beat.
J&G Steakhouse (+971 4 435 5577,
stregisdubai.com) at the St. Regis Dubai
is another standout. Managing to marry
masculinity to elegance, the setting here
is just about perfect for you to savour
fabulously high quality cuts of meat (as
well as seafood and raw bar selections).
In fact, such is the restaurant's quest
for perfection that nothing is left to
chance – so much so that exclusive
cattle are raised only for this restaurant
(yes, you did read that right). It's listed
as Queensland AACO Beef on the menu,
and tastes superb. Pair it with a side of
potato gratin, topped with a creamy,
nutty Comté cheese, and bookend it
with a wonderful scallop sashimi on
black truffle toast and the flamboyant
bananas foster – a genuine showstopper
of a dessert.
For somewhere lighter on your
wallet, go to Soho Grill (+971 4 286
8520, sohogrill.ae) at Century Village,
Garhoud (one of four branches in
the city). The meat here hails from
Australia and New Zealand (two of the
world’s finest suppliers), and you can
bag a grass-fed fillet for just Dhs100.
Where To Eat
48
DXB City Expert
IncredIble value
IndIan & PakIstanI
Since Indians and Pakistanis account
for the biggest expat community in
Dubai, it comes as little surprise that
the city is awash with an abundance of
Indian and Pakistani cuisine – much
of it very cheap and delicious. That’s
particularly true of Saravanaa Bhavan
(+971 4 334 5252) in Karama, whose
vegetable curries pack in brilliant
flavour and cost an average Dhs15.
Also in Karama is Calicut Paragon
(+971 4 449 8560, paragonrestaurant.
net), which serves curried Keralan
seafood specialities, while Rangoli
Vegetarian Restaurant (+971 4 351
5873, rangolirestaurants.com) in
Meena Bazaar, Bur Dubai, serves food
hailing from the Gujarati region of
India (imagine platters upon platters
of delicious thali, which just keep on
coming). The Dubai institution that is
Ravi Restaurant (+971 4 331 5353)
in Satwa serves Pakistani-style curries,
with favourites including chicken achar,
keema fry and chicken methi. These
places are strictly no frills, but when
the curries are so good and such great
value, who cares?
IF you book just one
Place whIle you're here
thIs month, make It...
Al Fanous Lounge, JW
Marriott Marquis Hotel
Dubai (+971 4 414 3000,
marriott.com)
It's all about iftar this month,
so where best to head to soak
up the warm and inclusive
atmosphere – and enjoy a
genuine feast of Arabic fare?
Our top tip is housed within
the world's tallest hotel, JW
Marriott Marquis Dubai. Its
ballroom will become the
opulent Al Fanous Lounge
for the duration of Ramadan,
where live oud players set
the tone for a memorable
holiday experience.
Fast, FIllIng noodles
(and a bIt more besIdes)
The Noodle House (+971 4 366
6730, thenoodlehouse.com) is a real
homegrown success story, and is the
go-to place for steaming hot bowls of
fragrantly-spiced pad thai and myriad
other dishes inspired by the street foods
of Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bangkok and
Jakarta. The dishes are never-fail and
good value to boot, which makes it a
great option for families – it even has a
funky kids’ menu, comprising the likes
of wok-fried satay chicken noodles.
You’ll find branches of The Noodle
House across the city, including one at
Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
The menu at Veda Pavilion (+971 4
361 8845, emiratesleisureretail.com)
on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah moves
beyond Far Eastern staples to include
a head-popping free-range chicken
vindaloo. As such, everyone in your
dining party is likely to find something
that really hits the spot here.
leFt:
Armani/Hashi
49
Where To Eat
Heavenly
HigH Tea
From traditional afternoon tea to
more contemporary offerings, Dubai
upholds this very British custom with
real flare. If you want to feel on top
of the world while enjoying the city’s
most unique afternoon tea – and we
heartily recommend that you do –
head to the Tea Party on 68th, which
takes place within Prime 68 at JW
Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 3000,
jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com). This
is the world’s tallest hotel, and from its
68th floor you get to drink in panoramic
views of Dubai while enjoying the finest
cuts of beef, American cheesecake
(the world’s best) and some sublime
drink creations. It takes place on
Saturdays, from 2.30pm-5pm, priced
at an incredibly good value Dhs185 per
person or Dhs350 per couple.
Keeping with the more
contemporary offerings, Raffles Dubai
(+971 4324 8888, raffles.com), the
striking pyramid-shaped hotel in Oud
Metha, hosts a fun Fashion Afternoon
Tea with over 20 blends from Newby
Teas and dainty sweets and savouries
inspired by seasonal runway trends
(don’t miss the fabulous peach praline
stiletto). From now until September 30,
afternoon tea guests can also enter a
draw to win one of six pairs of Manolo
Blahnik shoes. Normally served in
Raffles Salon in the light-filled marble
lobby, during Ramadan you can take
tea in Crossroads, overlooking the
lush Raffles Garden, on the third floor.
Dhs125 per person, daily 2pm-7pm.
Meanwhile, be transported to an
English summer garden at Rhodes
W1 (+971 4 317 6000, rw1-dubai.
com) at Grosvenor House Hotel. With
sunny lemon tones and walls covered
with fake grass and white butterflies,
this classy but casual dining spot from
Dubai-based British chef, Gary Rhodes,
serves afternoon tea every Wednesday
to Saturday from 2.30pm to 5pm. From
finger sandwiches in savoury flavours
such as quail's egg mayonnaise and
onion and herb Croque Monsieur to
warm crumpets with fresh raspberries
and homemade scones, the fine china
cake stands come piled high with tasty
DXB City Expert
THiS page: BOCA
treats to compliment your pot of tea.
Dhs195 per person.
SumpTuouS
Seafood
While most menus these days feature
ample fish dishes, restaurants which
specialise in serving up our fishy
friends are in surprisingly short supply
across Dubai. That’s one of the reasons
why Catch (+971 4 357 1755, catch.
ae) was so warmly received by locals
– and remains one of the hottest
tables in town with an atmosphere to
match. Hailing from NYC, the other
good reason that this contemporary
American seafood restaurant finds
favour is, of course, its food. You can
have your fish in a number of ways,
but you don’t need to look beyond the
simple grilled version. If you only have
time to eat out once or twice while
you're here, make Catch a must-dine.
For classic seaside favourites at a
reasonable price, stop by The MAINE
(+971 4 457 6719, themaine.ae) at
the DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR. Part
American brasserie and part European
bistro, the unpretentious venue
features a raw bar overflowing with
fresh oysters, ceviche and seafood
towers, along with grilled steak, chops
and a variety of vegetarian dishes.
With touches of nautical glamour and
a seafront-facing terrace, it’s also a top
spot to head for relaxed sundowners.
Where To Eat
DINING
AT DIFC
You may want to check in with your
bank manager back home before
heading to DIFC for dinner (especially
with the whole family), but your
reward for blowing your budget will
be a truly memorable meal. Within
DIFC is Gate Village, where amidst the
high-end galleries and auction houses
are some of Dubai’s – and the world’s
– best restaurants. Listed at number
88 in Restaurant Magazine’s 2015
list of the World’s Best Restaurants is
the ever-popular Zuma (+971 4 425
5560, zumarestaurant.com), where
the outstanding Japanese food is best
ordered to share. In fact, what always
works well here is to ask your waiter to
order for you. New-to-the-menu dishes
that you'll want to try, courtesy of new
Executive Chef Pawel Kazanowski
and a hint of influence from CEO and
Founder, Rainer Becker, include a
sublime thinly-sliced chutoro tuna,
chilli, coriander, and sesame.
It may have slipped from that same
list of best restaurants (it was placed
at 81 in 2014) but La Petite Maison
(+971 4 439 0505, lpmlondon.co.uk/
dubai) is still great. It uses produce
from local UAE farms in a number of
its sublime dishes, all of which have
their roots in French Mediterranean
cooking – dishes like the burrata with
basil and tomatoes and the salt-baked
seabass are legendary amongst Dubai
gourmands.
A mere stone's throw from DIFC
– though admittedly by a very strong
arm – is the always-in-vogue La
Cantine Du Faubourg (+ 971 43 527
105, lacantine.ae), as fashionable a
restaurant as you'll find this side of the,
erm, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.
As is increasingly popular these days,
sharing plates is the concept here, so
take your pick from a catwalk-length
menu of mid-sized dishes, the standouts
from which are the crab-avocado salad
and (the exceptional) slow-cooked
wagyu short ribs. As expected, you
should turn up fashionably late to
experience the atmosphere at its
buzzing best, something heightened by
its brilliant inside-to-outside setting.
50
The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri
in Burj Daman building is a recent
Italian import that’s already got Dubai’s
gastronomes buzzing. Originating in
Florence, the thrice-starred Enoteca
Pinchiorri was founded by sommelier
Giorgio Pinchiorri and Annie Féolde,
the self-taught (French) executive chef.
The Dubai outpost is a more relaxed
version of Italian fine dining, with an
emphasis on amazing ingredients all
imported from Italy (the restaurant
even has its own brand of Parmesan
and olive oil). Overseen by head chef
Luca Tresoldi, who has worked in
Florence under Féolde for the last five
years, signature dishes like octopus
slow-cooked in homemade olive oil and
tuffoli pasta with veal shank stew are
sublime examples of just how beautiful
and delicate Italian food can be when
done to this incredibly high standard.
SublImE SuSHI
AND SASHImI
Beyond the elsewhere-mentioned
Zuma and Nobu, Dubai is also
home to a couple more standout
Japanese restaurants. One of them,
Armani/Hashi (+ 971 4 888 3888,
armanihotels.com) is housed at the foot
of Burj Khalifa in Armani Hotel Dubai.
You'd be hard pushed to find anywhere
serving up seafood as good as that
served here.
TOMO in Raffles Dubai (+971
4 357 7888, tomo.ae) is helmed by
chef-owner Chitoshi Takaashi, who has
devised a menu that’s vast and packed
with fantastic authentic Japanese
delicacies, best navigated with the help
of a waiter. The terrace here bestows
brilliant views of Burj Khalifa.
Ex-Zuma chef Reif Othman’s Play
(+971 4 225 6000, h-hotel.com) at
The H Hotel was an instant hit when
opened at the outset of 2016. Playfully
(naturally) described as Mediterrasian
– a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian
flavours – the twists on classic dishes
here are a real delight. Be sure to order
the duck gyoza and Takumi Wagyu
ribs - both of which are divine. The
always-buzzing bar and DJ means the
atmosphere at dinner is as playful as
the menu, although if you’re a non-
DXB City Expert
ClOCKWISE FROm
bElOW: Big Chefs;
The Maine;
Gaucho; Dubai
Sumosan.
Where To Eat
51
DXB City Expert
52
Where To Eat
smoker the restaurant area can get
uncomfortably smoky.
Within the very funky Vida
Downtown Dubai hotel is the equally
cool Toko Dubai (+971 4 442 8383,
toko-dubai.com). Like Nobu, Toko
Dubai also boasts a brilliant garden,
where under the stars you can have
your fill of some unique and sublime
sushi creations – scampi nigiri, with
foie gras and truffle oil being one. If
you dine here as a part of a group of
four, don't overlook the opportunity
to order the tasting menu for the
whole table, and allow the chef to
bring you wave after wave of his finest
creations.
Famed London export, Novikov
(+971 4 38 888 744, novikov-dubai.
com), at the Sheraton Grand Hotel is
another ultra-glamorous spot with a
sleek, dimly-lit dining space, resident
DJs and a vast – and very impressive –
Asian menu. Fronting the open kitchen
is a market counter displaying fresh
fish and seafood flown in every second
day from Portugal and Japan, including
interesting delicacies like goose
barnacles and sea urchins. The skill of
ex-Nobu head chef Shane Macneill is
evident throughout – highlights include
the King Crab leg wasabi gratin, scallop
and black truffle sashimi, and the
signature duck salad.
Founded in Moscow, famed in
London and now delighting diners
in Dubai is Sumosan (+971 56 678
3357, sumosan.com), which serves up
Japanese food of the highest calibre
to the showy crowd at Billionaire
Mansion. You'll find it within the Taj
Dubai hotel.
Cheaper than the lot – though still
of high quality – is Manga Sushi (+971
4 342 8300, mangasushi.ae) at Beach
Park Plaza in Jumeirah 2. As its name
more than hints at, this is a restaurant
that’s designed manga-style, right down
to the waitresses’ uniforms. The fun
extends to the very inventive sushi
creations, including Godzilla in Dubai:
deep-fried wasabi prawn, asparagus
and diced mango, dipped in wasabi
mayonnaise and rolled in sesame seeds.
You'll also find a branch of Manga Sushi
in The Dubai Mall.
THESE pAGES:
The Artisan
DXB City Expert
53
Where To Eat
DXB City Expert
DINE AT
THE bEACH
The Beach at JBR – a brilliant
pedestrianised area mere metres from
the sand and sea – is the perfect place
to head for a good-value feed with
your family in tow. Your best bet is to
simply stroll the length of it, stopping to
peruse the menus at places that catch
your eye – there are myriad cuisines
to choose from. But were you to twist
our arm we’d heartily recommend
the following. Pots, Pans & Boards
(+971 4 456 1959, thebeach.ae) is
one of Dubai’s more interesting recent
openings. Helmed by Tom Aikens,
who remains the youngest UK chef to
have scooped two Michelin stars, the
concept here is sharing dishes (make
sure you get the lion’s share of the
lobster mac and cheese), which you’ll
enjoy in a relaxed, informal (even the
chairs are mismatched) vibe. Almaz by
Momo (+971 4 551 6247, momoresto.
com) is one place that will definitely
catch your eye. Here you can look out
to the sparkling sea while enjoying your
pick from a menu of North African and
Levant-inspired dishes. Think piping
hot tagines, slow-cooked meats and
grilled fish.
Busaba Eathai (+971 4 428 1421,
thebeach.ae) is a Thai restaurant with
roots – and multiple branches – in the
UK, where it was founded by Alan Yau,
the man responsible for introducing
Hakkasan to our tastebuds. You’ll
find the food here is undeniably tasty,
particularly if you order one of the
spice-laden curries (ask for it hot), yet a
great deal lighter on your wallet.
Breathing in the sea air may well put
you in the mood for the ocean’s finest
catches. If so, crack open a crab at
Aprons & Hammers (+971 4 456 7888,
apronsandhammers.com). Crab and
shrimp are served by the bucketful –
along with a dollop of family fun – with
diners having to work for their meal
by crushing crustaceans with hinged
crackers and (you guessed it) hammers.
DINE
DOWNTOWN
In addition to The Beach, Downtown
Dubai is one of the few areas in the
city where you can walk along the
street or, in this case, wide boulevards
lined by trees and lit by tiny, twinkling
lights at night. You’ll pass an array of
good-value independent restaurants
as you saunter past the skyscrapers,
serving up everything from gourmet
burgers and American classics at
Ashton Kutcher-owned Ketchup (+971
4 363 8595, ketchup.ae) to the menu
mash-up at Loui’s (+971 4 457 2411,
louisrestaurant.net) where Lebanese,
Mediterranean and Japanese dishes all
vie for your attention.
The al fresco terrace is also a major
draw at Fümé Neighborhood Eatery
(+971 4 456 8784, fume-eatery.com)
at Manzil Downtown Dubai, but the
home-style cooking is the real crowd
charmer here.
New to this neighbourhood is Ting
Irie (+971 4 557 5601 tingirie.com)
at Downtown Boulevard offers up
Jamaican staples courtesy of Executive
Chef Craig Wong (of Jamaican-Chinese
heritage) who has a CV boasting stints
at multi-Michelin starred restaurants
Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and
Heston Blumental’s Fat Duck.
If you’re coming to Downtown Dubai
on the hunt for a meal you’ll remember
long after your flight home has left the
runway, it has to be La Serre (+971 4
428 6969, laserre.ae). Great service,
even better food, and an atmosphere
rarely bettered anywhere else in the
city, this is another place where you
should let the waiter order for you –
just hope they mention the tagliatelle
with black prawns and smoked duck.
It's divine. Le Serre's downstairs
boulangerie is also a great – and very
popular – place to head for an al
fresco breakfast.
Where To Shop
54
DXB City Expert
To
SHOP
Chapter FOUR
Step inside the stores, meander around the
markets and seek out the unique shopping
experiences that are found only in Dubai
Mega
Malls
Few places in the world ‘do’ malls like
Dubai. Ever since the first shopping
centre swung open its doors in 1980
(the Al Ghurair Centre) there has been
a steady flow of malls opening up across
the city. Whether you’re in town for
one day, one week, or longer, there’s a
mall for you.
During Ramadan, opening hours at
malls across the city are extended to
around 2am. Most cafés, restaurants
and fast food outlets within the malls
will be closed during the day (although
some of the bigger malls may have a
food court available for non-fasters)
and open after sunset, serving until as
late as 3am to accommodate those who
are fasting.
With over 1,200 stores under its
gargantuan roof, The Dubai Mall (800
38224 6255, thedubaimall.com) should
be your first stop. Consisting of four
levels – plus an aquarium, Olympicsize ice rink and a 22-screen cineplex
– it was named the largest shopping
centre in the world by the Guinness
World Records when it opened in
2008, and is positively packed with
both designer and high street stores. At
some point during your shopping spree
here it’s a given that you’ll lose your
bearings, but there are numerous help
desks (and even buggies to ferry you
around if you’re flagging). Don’t leave
without visiting Level Shoe District
(+971 4 501 6939, levelshoedistrict.
com), which houses every designer
shoe brand known to mankind; the
region’s first Bloomingdale’s (+971 4
350 5333), and an outpost of France’s
famous Galeries Lafayette (+971 4
339 9933, galerieslafayette-dubai.com).
Mall of the Emirates (+971 4
409 9000, malloftheemirates.com) is
another big shopping draw. Following
its recent 36,000 square-metre
Where To Shop
55
abOUt this ChapteR
Dubai’s main malls have long opening hours, especially during Ramadan; The Dubai Mall
opens daily from 10am-2am, while Mall of the Emirates opens from 10am-2am SundayWednesday and 10am-3am Thursday-Saturday. The malls also ask that shoppers dress
modestly – shoulders and knees should be covered. These dress codes are in place to show
respect for the country’s culture and religion, rather than a law.
DXB City Expert
56
Where To Shop
extension (which saw 20 new fashion
brands, 12 restaurants and a 24-screen
VOX Cinemas added) this mega mall
has over 560 stores to roam. Make sure
you become acquainted with Fashion
Dome, an area dedicated to designer
garb; Boutique 1 (+971 4 395 1200,
boutique1.com), a homegrown retail
star stocking global and local labels;
the UAE's largest Alexander
McQueen (+971 4 347 0239) store,
stocking seasonal collections as well
as classics like skull scarves and
knuckle box clutches; and Harvey
Nichols – Dubai (+971 4 409 8888,
harveynichols.com), which houses a
winning mix of international fashion
heavyweights and much more over its
three floors.
Next, hop in a taxi – or take the
metro to BurJuman Metro Station
1 – to BurJuman (+971 4 352 0222,
burjuman.com) one of the oldest
shopping malls in Dubai. Offering wallto-wall high fashion, from Fendi and
Versace to the UAE’s only Saks Fifth
Avenue (+971 450 12700, saksme.
com), here you can shop for designer
names in relative calm.
Back on the metro, continue for
three stops along the Red Line and
you’ll reach Deira City Centre Mall
(+971 4 295 1010, citycentredeira.
com) home to over 370 retail stores.
Aside from the shops, the mall houses
Magic Planet, a super-sized indoor
family entertainment centre.
A hop and skip from here is
Festival Centre (+971 4 800 332,
festivalcentre.com), an urban retail
resort nestled in Dubai Festival City.
Set on the historic Dubai Creek, it
offers a potpourri of shops (mostly
mid-range) and some great waterfront
cafés that are perfect for a pit stop after
sunset.
Shoppers who need a fuss-free
retail spree should head to Dubai
Marina Mall (+971 4 436 1020,
dubaimarinamall.com), which offers a
stylish mix of high-street brands on a
more manageable scale, or Ibn Battuta
Mall (+971 4 362 1900, ibnbattutamall.
com). Touted as the world’s largest
themed shopping mall and based on
the travels of Arabic explorer Ibn
Battuta, the décor alone makes for
great snaps.
It’s bargains galore at Dubai
Outlet Mall (+971 4 423 4666,
dubaioutletmall.com), located 30
minutes outside the city. Offering
previous seasons’ wares of top brands
at heavily discounted prices, must-visit
shops here include Burberry, Coach,
Priceless and The Outlet, which stock
clothes and accessories from the city’s
biggest luxury department stores.
sOUveniRs
tO savOUR
It’s time to say farewell to tacky
token gifts and hello to something a
little more authentic – starting with
Arabica coffee. While a number of
coffee shops in Dubai serve Arabica
coffee (with a signature date), few sell
the beans to take away – apart from
the Dubai Coffee Museum (+971 4
353 8777, coffeemuseum.ae), that is.
The museum, which is located in the
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood,
is split across two levels with a coffee
bar on the top floor. It is here that the
museum’s bubbly barista John Paul –
an expert when it comes to drinks of
the caffeinated kind – serves and sells
Arabica coffee for visitors looking for
a souvenir with a touch of authenticity.
It’s open 9am until 5pm every day,
except Friday.
Like coffee, poetry forms a
cornerstone of Dubai’s history. Head
to the vast Kinokuniya (+971 4 434
0111, uae.kinokuniya.com) bookshop
in The Dubai Mall to pick up an Arabic
poetry book from one of the many
shelves stacked high with tomes.
Calligraphy, too, is synonymous with
Emirati heritage. Gallery 1 (+971 4
432 7493, g-1.com), which has shops
in Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat
Jumeirah, among other locales, stocks
an enviable selection of calligraphy
keepsakes – from cards and prints
to notebooks.
Oud, a scent synonymous with
Dubai, will undoubtedly make for
a memorable holiday memento,
with most of the malls and markets
mentioned in this section offering
bottled or bespoke versions for men
DXB City Expert
pReviOUs page:
The Dubai Mall
this page: Jimmy
Choo, Mall of the
Emirates
Where To Shop
57
DXB City Expert
and women. But for noses that prefer
softer scents, head to Villa 515 (+9714
39 54 054, villa515.com), an olfactory
sanctuary for bespoke fragrance.
Located in Jumeirah 3, this perfumer
boasts a shop and a laboratory that’s
specifically designed for perfume
customisation – perfect for creating
your own holiday scent.
best OF
bespOke
Dubai has garnered a well-deserved
reputation for custom tailoring over
the years thanks, in part, to an
abundance of fabric stores and quick
turnaround times – great for visitors
like yourself.
Areas synonymous with tailoring
include Satwa – Deepa’s (+971 4
349 4434, deepastailoring.com) is a
popular spot; Karama – Dream Girls
(+971 4 337 7287) is a regular for
Dubai’s females; and Bur Dubai –
Parmar Tailors (+971 4 3513112,
parmartailors.com) is a firm favourite
for made-to-measure. These three
locations make for a great day out in
old Dubai, regardless of whether or not
you’re looking for bespoke attire.
Men, meanwhile, should stop by
Royal Fashion (+971 4 368 6192,
royalfashion.biz) at Souk Madinat
Jumeirah (it also has branches in
various hotels in Dubai). The tailors
here create made-to-measure suits
and shirts at reasonable prices, and can
send them on to your home country
should they not be ready before you fly
home.
Couples looking to say ‘I do’
should stop by the popular Gold &
Diamond Park, along Sheikh Zayed
Road. It's a hive of activity with lots
of jewellery stores offering custommade luxuries. (+971 4 362 7777,
goldanddiamondpark.com). Here,
Monili Jewellers (+971 4 340 7537,
monilijewellers.com) is a standout
boutique. It houses a range of
diamonds and semi-precious to
precious stones, which the boutique's
artisans can put to good use by creating
bespoke pieces for you. At this Dubai
stalwart haggling is an absolute – and
welcomed – essential.
58
Where To Shop
DXB City Expert
COnCept
stORes
Outside of Dubai’s glitzy malls there’s a
raft of independent concept stores and
shopping experiences to enjoy – if you
know where to find them.
The best way to tick off the city’s
unique stores is to introduce them into
your day, rather than allocate a day
to visit them. For example, if you find
yourself in Alserkal Avenue admiring
the art galleries, make sure you stop
by The cARTel (+971 4 388 4341,
thecartel.me), one of Dubai’s creative
retail pioneers. From the outside it
looks like an abandoned warehouse
desperate for some architectural
attention. Step inside, however, and a
carefully curated selection of limited
edition clothing awaits. The designers
stocked at cARTel are often exclusive
to the region, with every piece a limited
edition to ensure its individuality.
Over the road from cARTel you’ll
find A4 Space (+971 50 556 9797,
alserkalavenue.ae), a sprawling
6,000sqft warehouse that regularly
hosts pop-up fashion and art events for
the city’s cool crowd.
Fashion-conscious parents heading
to Dubai Zoo should visit the nearby
Zoo Concept (+971 4 349 5585), a
concept boutique offering everything
from novelty gifts to trendy T-shirts.
From here, venture a little further
along Jumeirah Beach Road to
Comptoir 102 (+971 4 385 4555), a
conceptualised eatery selling kitsch
clothing items alongside a delicious
vegan food menu.
In Umm Suqeim is IF Boutique
(+971 4 394 7260, ifboutiquedubai.
com), a villa which houses cutting edge
designs from a whole host of quirky
international designers, including
Yohji Yamamoto.
A short drive down the same street
you’ll find Garderobe (+971 4 394
2753, garderobe.ae), a hotbed for preowned luxury fashion. There is vintage
Chanel alongside Celine, Balenciaga
beside Burberry, and Dior in company
with Dolce & Gabbana.
Holidaymakers planning on retracing
Tom Cruise’s footsteps at Dubai
International Financial Centre (Cruise
ran under the iconic Gate Building
in the fourth installment of Mission:
Impossible) should pay Momentum
(+971 4 327 4320, momentum-dubai.
com) a visit. This vintage and rare
watch store offers a raft of timepieces
as well as service and repair.
Mini
Malls
They might not be as big as Dubai’s
jumbo malls but the city’s smaller
counterparts are chock-full of labels
worthy of your holiday dirhams. Most
of the mini-malls are located along
Jumeirah Beach Road and Al Wasl
Road – two roads that run parallel.
Simply drive up one, turn around at
Drydocks Dubai, and drive down
the other.
Kick-off your mini-mall trawl at one
of Dubai’s newest shopping centres,
aptly named The Mall (+971 4 348
4848, themall.co.ae), opposite Jumeirah
Beach Hotel. Flooded with natural
light, the mall houses 55 stores and
food outlets including Boho Beachwear,
Big Brands Factory Outlet and French
fashion retailer, Escales.
Then continue along Jumeriah
Beach Road to Sunset Mall (+971 4
330 7333, sunsetmall.ae), home to
West L.A boutique and its batch of
underground fashion brands from
across the globe.
Two other must-visit
shopping havens here include
the Mediterranean-inspired
Mercato Mall (+971 4 344 4161,
mercatoshoppingmall.com) – here
you’ll find a brilliant boutique called
Bagatelle (+971 55 312 6822) which
59
Where To Shop
DXB City Expert
ask a lOCal
Kelly Lundberg, Stylist
(stylemedivine.com)
Dubai-based designer
Debra Henning
(deborahhenning.
com) is known for her
minimalistic and delicate
casual clothing. Her
designs can be found in
high-end department
stores and independent
boutiques such as IF
Boutique ((+971 4 394
7260, ifboutiquedubai.
com).
ClOCkwise FROM
leFt: Mercato Mall;
Saks Fifth Avenue;
West LA Boutique
sells pre-owned designer clothing,
shoes and jewellery – and The
Galleria Mall (+971 4 344 4434),
another new name in the independent
mall arena and home to quirky stores
such as SoH (+971 4 344 4147, soh.
ae) a beauty-salon-meets-art-gallerymeets-boutique, and ValleyDez (+971
4 321 2898, valleydez.com), which
stocks a great range of cool designer
and ready-to-wear clothing.
And while most of the city's alfresco shopping precincts wind down
over summer, City Walk (citywalk.ae)
at the junction of Al Wasl and Al Safa
Road aims to bring the outside in with
a new boulevard-style shopping
area with a glass roof, subtle airconditioning and plenty of natural light.
Window shop without breaking a sweat
at boutiques like American Vintage,
Rag & Bone and Karl Lagerfeld, then
catch a film at Reel Cinemas or take
the kids to Mattel Play Town, a newly
opened indoor ‘eduplay’ centre.
If you want to fully explore the
Jumeirah/Al Wasl area but haven’t
rented a car, a good option is to hire a
taxi for a six-hour stint for a flat fee
of Dhs500. You must book 24hrs in
advance (+971 4 208 0000, dubaitaxi.
ae).
indOOR
MaRkets
Dubai really heats up this month,
bringing an end to the al-fresco markets
which are a feature of the winter
shopping season. Ripe Market (+971
4 380 7602, ripeme.com) is one of the
city’s most popular, and for the summer
months it takes refuge inside Times
Square Centre, on Sheikh Zayed Road.
Focused solely on local artisans and
designers, there's also live music, popup fitness classes and activities for the
kids. It takes place every Saturday from
9am-3pm.
Now in its fifth year, the Ramadan
Night Market (ramadannightmarket.
com) promises to be bigger than ever.
Held over 10 days from June 23 to
July 2 at Zaabeel Hall 4 and 5 at Dubai
World Trade Centre, the market
features a huge array of clothing,
jewellery, perfumes, homewares,
electronics, toys, handicrafts and
souvenirs. There are also food stalls
dishing up regional and international
treats, and a kids' play area with face
painting, bouncy castles, climbing walls,
trampolines and more. It's open from
8pm to 2am.
60
Where To Shop
DXB City Expert
gO
lOCal
Dubai is home to a number of stellar
designers whose collections have
careered down the runway at fashion
weeks around the world. Star of the
moment Madiyah Al Sharqi, who is
also the daughter of the ruler of
Fujairah, is celebrated at home and
abroad for her statement pieces,
feminine separates and dresses. Pick
up a Sharqi staple from Symphony
(+971 4 310 6904, bysymphony.com)
in The Dubai Mall. Also stocked in
Symphony is Endemage, an ethnic chic
label created by Omani sisters Nadia
and Lubna Zakwani.
Still in The Dubai Mall, for the
summer months only you'll get to
shop at pop-up boutique Design 971
(call 800 382 24 6255 for further
information). It lays claim to the
region's most exciting young
designers, including Lilian Afshar,
whose L’Afshar label has garnered
praise from Vogue.
House of Nomad is another local
label elbowing its way inside the
wardrobes of the UAE’s fash-pack.
The celebrated newcomer, applauded
for its use of Arabic calligraphy
throughout its collections, can be
found in West L.A. Boutique (+971
4 388 2828, westlaboutique.com) in
Sunset Mall.
Besides the malls, the streets along
Jumeirah Beach Road, Al Wasl Road
and the surrounding roads are dotted
with villas housing local design talent.
You’ll find Dubai fashion star Rami
Al Ali (+9714 394 5607, ramialali.
com), whose couture collections have
appeared at Paris Fashion Week, in
villa 697 on Al Wasl Road. Book a
consultation or simply scour the rails
for haute couture inspiration.
Superstar designer Ezra (+971 4
395 5385, ezrafashiondesign.com),
best known for his dreamy, extravagant
gowns, creates his masterpieces from
his atelier in Dubai’s Jumeirah 3 (villa
746, Al Wasl Road). With Britney
Spears and Michelle Rodriguez for
clients, Ezra is a must-visit boutique
for ladies who are looking for five star
quality couture.
this page: The
Dubai Mall
sOUk
speCtaCUlaR
It’s no surprise that one of Dubai’s
oldest settlement areas provides the
base and backdrop for one the city’s
most authentic shopping experiences:
Deira. Nestled in the neighbourhood’s
maze of winding walkways you’ll find
the Dubai Gold Souk – best reached
by taxi, although the nearest metro stop
is Al Ras. The residents love it because
it reminds them of days gone by, while
tourists like it for the quality and
variety of gold – and the fact that you
can haggle over the price.
A quick march from the Gold Souk
will lead you to the Spice Souk, home
to a number of thatched market stalls
selling spices that are certain to pull at
your purse strings.
Over the water, on the Bur
Dubai side of Dubai Creek, you’ll
find Bur Dubai Souk, a labyrinth of
passageways teeming with stores
selling clothes, camels (miniatures, of
course), cushions and much more. The
best way to get here from the Spice
Souk is by hopping on board a sturdy
abra boat at one of the many stations
along Baniyas Road – for just Dhs2
per person, you’ll be standing on the
other side of the creek in five minutes.
The Dubai Textile Souk,
meanwhile, is a fabric fairyland for
shoppers looking to create bespoke
garments. From swathes of silk for
sarees and wedding gowns, to bolts
of embroidered cotton, you would
be hard-pressed to find a souk more
colourful than this.
62
What To Do
DXB City Expert
What
DO
Chapter FIVE
Think you’re here for the sun and shopping only?
Think again. Dubai boasts ample attractions that
you’ll want to experience before heading home.
The fun starts here...
SEE thE cIty
From thE Sky
Skydiving is on every daredevil’s bucket
list and there’s no better place to do
it than here. Skydive Dubai (+971 4
377 8888, skydivedubai.ae) has one of
the world’s most spectacular tandem
jumps over the iconic Palm Jumeirah.
Or if you'd rather not leap out of a
plane, iFly Dubai (+971 4 231 6292,
theplaymania.com) lets you defy gravity
in its amazing indoor wind tunnel.
For more sedate sightseeing,
Seawings (advance bookings via +971
4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com)
offers a range of scenic joy flights,
including the Dubai Creek Silver tour,
a 40-minute ‘dock to dock’ seaplane
excursion above the historic Creek,
Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and more.
If VIP bling is more your thing,
nothing beats hovering around town
in a helicopter. Fly High Helicopter
Services (advanced booking via City
Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major
malls +971 4 316 7506) offers 15- or
25-minute tours from its helipad at
Atlantis, The Palm, as well as helicopter
transfers so you can really arrive in
style. Meanwhile, Heli Dubai (advance
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabianadventures.com) takes off from Dubai
Festival City, with 12- or 22-minute
aerial tours over Dubai’s stratospherenudging skyscrapers.Leaving the glitz
and glamour of the city behind, a hot
air balloon ride over the desert as
the sun comes up is an unforgettable
experience. Balloon Adventures
Emirates (+971 4 285 4949, ballooning.
ae) will take you up, up and away in
either a large group or a private charter.
What To Do
63
About thIS chAptEr
As you’ll read, there is much to do in Dubai, and as such we’ve ensured our recommendations
include plenty of options for both big and little kids. By far the best way to get your bearings –
and to see all of the city – is by starting out with a City Sightseeing Dubai, hop-on, hop-off bus
tour (see ‘Top of the Tours’ for booking details). Then it’s all about ticking off that to-do list...
DXB City Expert
64
What To Do
GEt wEt
And wIld
Water babies are spoilt for choice as
Dubai has two world-class waterparks
that have something for all ages.
Located in front of the sail-shaped
Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi (advance
bookings via +971 4 303 4992,
arabian-adventures.com) is the more
manageable of the two, with over 30
rides and attractions. From kid-friendly
slides and the relaxing lazy river, to
adrenaline-fuelled surfing experiences
and the truly terrifying Jumeirah
Sceirah, it’s impossible not to have fun
at this fantastic park.
Over on Palm Jumeirah you’ll find
Aquaventure (advanced booking via
com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks
at all major malls +971 4 316 7506)
at Atlantis, The Palm. It comprises
17 hectares of heart-stopping slides,
rides, pools and interconnecting
waterways, along with a huge kids’
play area, exhilarating zip line, pristine
private beach, private cabanas and
the not-so-small matter of Shark
Lagoon, where you can hand-feed
gentle rays. Celebrating your birthday
while in Dubai? Register online
at atlantisthepalm.com for a free
Aquaventure day pass to use anytime
during your birthday week.
On a smaller scale – and therefore
perfect for the toddlers – is Splash ‘n’
Party (+971 4 388 3008, splashnparty.
ae), which you’ll find in Al Safa 2,
Jumeirah. Water slides, splash pads and
huge buckets which soak all below are
all guaranteed to spread a smile on kids’
faces, while parents will be similarly
enthused by not being charged an entry
fee. Admission for kids is Dhs80 on
weekdays and Dhs100 at the weekend.
ExplorE thE
Art ScEnE
With a keen focus on contemporary
art, Dubai has a burgeoning art scene
centred around the financial district
of DIFC and the industrial area of Al
Quoz. The former is home to a dozen
spaces including Ayyam Gallery (+971
4 439 2395, ayyamgallery.com), which
promotes emerging and established
prEVIouS pAGE: Seawings
thIS pAGE: Dolphin Bay
DXB City Expert
65
artists from the Middle East, and The
Empty Quarter (+971 4 323 1210,
theemptyquarter.com), the city’s only
gallery space devoted exclusively to
fine art photography.
The hippest art hub, Alserkal
Avenue (+971 50 556 9797,
alserkalavenue.ae), can be found in Al
Quoz. There are around 15 galleries
housed in converted warehouses,
including Mojo (+971 4 347 7388,
themojogallery.com) and Leila
Heller Gallery (+971 56 831 3520,
leilahellergallery.com). One exhibition
worth checking out this month is
“Observing the Ritual” at Gulf Photo
Plus (+9714 380 8545, gulfphotoplus.
com). The exhibition sheds light on
the most intimate moments of life for
practising Muslims, from communal
prayer held in a secret mosque to the
breaking of the fast in a family home
during Ramadan.
Down near the Creek in Bur Dubai,
Majlis Gallery (+971 4 353 6233,
themajlisgallery.com) is also well worth
a visit. It’s Dubai’s oldest art gallery,
established over 25 years ago in a windtower house in the Al Fahidi district.
Meanwhile, an interesting gallery
that aims to bridge the gap between
high-end pieces and mass-produced
prints can be found in The Dubai Mall.
LUMAS (+971 4 388 2540, lumas.com)
has original photographic and contemporary artworks starting at less than
Dhs400, as well as limited edition pieces
by big names such as Damien Hirst and
Patrick Demarchelier.
on your
bIkE
Cycling is proving ever popular in the
emirate, and the European-style bike
hire service Byky (bykystations.com) is
the best way to explore the city on two
wheels. There are roughly 16 stations
dotted around Downtown, Dubai
Marina and Palm Jumeirah. First, you
need to register with your credit card
details online, at a rental station or by
downloading the NextBike app to your
smartphone. Then a unique code is sent
to your mobile to unlock the bike and
you’re good to go. To really stretch your
legs, head to Al Qudra Cycling Track,
DXB City Expert
ASk A locAl
Rebecca Haddad,
Digital content strategist
During Ramadan I love to
participate in the sunset
iftars held across the city.
For those completely new to
the city, it's hard to beat the
Downtown Tent (+971 4
423 8883) at the foot of the
Burj Khalifa. There, you can
feast on an endless array of
traditional dishes and enjoy
views of the famous tower
that are second to none.
66
What To Do
the world’s longest purpose-built
cycling track that loops around the
desert dunes near Bab Al Shams Desert
Resort & Spa. You can hire bikes
from Trek Bikes (+971 4 832 7377,
trekbikes.ae) at the start of the track.
DXB City Expert
From lEFt to EIGht:
Ski Dubai; Wild Wadi
Waterpark
GEt on
trAck
Petrol heads can do more than just
drool at Dubai’s legion of supercars.
Slip behind the wheel of a single seater
F3 race car, McLaren, Audi TT or R8
supercar at Dubai Autodrome
4992, arabian-adventures.com). Track
experiences combine classroom and
behind-the-wheel training from a
professional racing driver, before
you’re let loose to do a few laps on your
own – guaranteed to get your blood
pumping fast.
The complex is also home to
Kartdrome which has indoor and
outdoor tracks that are suitable for
big kids and little ones aged 7 and up.
The 1.2km outdoor circuit features 17
corners, a tunnel and bridge, while the
500m indoor track allows up to ten
karters to race at any one time. Plus, the
karts are equipped with timers so you
can test your mettle against your mates.
bEyond ShoppInG
At thE dubAI mAll
The Dubai Mall has a host of activities
to keep the whole tribe entertained.
Gamers of all ages will love SEGA
Republic (advanced booking via +971
4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com
or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at
all major malls +971 4 316 7506), a
huge indoor theme park with 15 rides
including a rollercoaster, and hundreds
of high-tech games. Little visitors will
love KidZania (advanced booking via
com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks
at all major malls +971 4 316 7506), a
sprawling mini city that allows children
to dabble in 80 different careers, from
pilot to police officer. And aviation
enthusiasts aged 9 and over can fly the
world’s largest passenger plane at the
Emirates A380 Experience (advance
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-
adventures.com), a state-of-the-art
Airbus flight simulator.
SwInG Into
ActIon
Dubai has become a major golf
destination and boasts an impressive
collection of high-calibre courses. And
as the mercury rises, there are some
great golf deals to be had at the various
clubs around town.
Emirates Golf Club (+971 4 380
1234, dubaigolf.com) boasts two 18hole par 72 Championship courses.
The Majlis course has open horizons
and stretches of scrubby sand along
with more traditional bunkers, while
the Faldo has a wadi (valley) running
through it, which is sure to challenge
first-timers. It's also Dubai's only fully
floodlit 18-hole course, so you can tee
off after dark. Fron June 1 you can play
the Majlis for Dhs500, or the Faldo
from Dhs350 before 5pm and from
Dhs375 after 5pm. Fees for 9 holes are
also available.
Jumeirah Golf Estates (+971 4 818
2000, jumeirahgolfestates.com) has
two Greg Norman-designed
Championship courses matched by
excellent club facilities. Inspired
by the great parkland courses of
Europe and North America, the Earth
course is home to the DP World Tour
Championship, the final leg of the
European Tour’s Race to Dubai.
Meanwhile the undulating topography
of the Fire course, marked by its red
sand bunkers, demands
a strategic approach. From June 1
you can play 18 holes on either Earth
or Fire for Dhs355.
What To Do
FEEl on top
oF thE world
Ascending the world’s tallest tower
is high on most visitors’ must-do lists,
and At The Top, Burj Khalifa (advance
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabianadventures.com) doesn’t disappoint.
A high-speed elevator delivers you to
the observation deck on Level 124 452-metres above the ground - where
floor-to-ceiling glass offers 360-degree
views. You can then walk up a spiral,
glass-walled staircase to Level 125
where viewfinders provide a virtual
tour of the city from the perspective
of a falcon. Premium ticket holders,
meanwhile, can also visit the Level
148 observation deck - 555 metres up.
Open daily until 11pm, advance booking is recommended and your ticket
allows you to linger as long as you like.
67
SEE A moVIE wIth
A dIFFErEncE
A trip to the cinema takes on a
whole new dimension in Dubai.
VOX Cinemas (+971 600 599 905,
voxcinemas.com) at Mall of the
Emirates has 24 screens including a
multi-sensory 4DX theatre that adds
moving seats and effects like rain and
lightning; the first laser IMAX in the
Middle East; and a colourful kids’
cinema. You can even swap popcorn
for a gourmet duck burger at Vox
Theatre by Rhodes, which combines
luxury seats and service with a menu
devised by Michelin-starred chef Gary
Rhodes.
A luxurious experience also awaits
at Reel Cinemas (+971 4 449 1902,
reelcinemas.ae) at The Dubai Mall.
The 22-screen multiplex includes
DXB City Expert
four lavish Platinum Movie Suites
with just 36 seats. After sinking
into your reclining leather chair and
snuggling down with your pillow and
blanket, press the call button and your
personal butler will appear with food
and drinks throughout the film. These
swish suites can also be found at the
10-screen cinemas at City Walk in
Jumeriah and The Beach at JBR.
Something unique for kids cinemawise is The Dome Box (800 637 227,
thedomeboxdubai.ae) at BoxPark
on Al Wasl Road. It’s a dome-shaped
theatre with a 360-degree screen
which plays short edutainment films
that are themed around science,
nature, and popular culture. Instead of
seats there are beanbags – and leaning
posts for adults – and each movie lasts
for around 30 minutes.
68
What To Do
DXB City Expert
clokwISE From rIGht:
Aquaventure; Dubai
Aquarium & Underwater
Zoo; At The Top; Dubai
Fountain
SEE AmAzInG
SEAlIFE
Some of Dubai’s best family-friendly
attractions can be found under the sea.
Home to over 65,000 marine animals,
The Lost Chambers Aquarium
(advanced booking via +971 4 303
4888, arabian-adventures.com or City
malls +971 4 316 7506) at Atlantis,
The Palm is sure to mesmerise young
and old. There are over 20 exhibits
with creatures from all over the world.
Visitors can also book a behind-thescenes tour or swim, snorkel or dive
with sharks.
Meanwhile, The Dubai Mall is home
to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater
Zoo (advanced booking via +971 4 303
4888, arabian-adventures.com or City
malls +971 4 316 7506), one of the
largest suspended aquariums on the
planet. Marvel at over 140 species of
sea life, including more than 300 sharks
and rays, or rent some scuba gear and
sidle up alongside the inhabitants of
this 10-million-litre tank. No diving
experience is required. At the zoo part
of this aquatic attraction you’ll get to
see the likes of penguins, otters, giant
spider crabs and King Croc, who weighs
in at 750kg. The Animal Encounter
Experiences, meanwhile, provide
behind-the-scenes access to otters, rays
or saltwater crocodiles. The meet-and
greet experiences take place every
hour, daily, from 11am to 10pm.
And if you’ve always dreamed of
swimming with dolphins, you can do
exactly that at Dolphin Bay (advance
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabianadventures.com), the 4.5-hectare
dolphin conservation centre at
Atlantis, The Palm. Home to a family
of friendly Indo-Pacific bottlenose
dolphins, you can take your pick from
five different dolphin experiences.
chIll out
At A SpA
Feeling frazzled after all that fun?
Dubai has some of the world’s most
luxurious spas that are renowned for
their ultra-indulgent treatments.
One of the very best is Amara Spa
(+ 971 4 602 1234, dubai.park.hyatt.
com) at the beautiful Park Hyatt
Dubai, which stands aside the city's
historic creek. This magical setting
features a 25m-pool and eight luxury
suites replete with private gardens and
tropical rain showers, three of which
are designed for couples. If it's just the
two of you in town, why not embark
on Amara's Couple's Journey? Spread
over a leisurely 180 minutes, you'll be
pampered to the point of sheer bliss via
a body scrub, body wrap, massage and
facial. It's priced at Dhs3,000 per
happy couple.
Over at the world's tallest hotel, JW
Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 0000,
jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com), you'll
find the sublime Saray Spa, where
customised treatments for two are
also offered. The Saray Spa Ultimate
VIP Journey is 3 hours of serenity, into
which you're eased with a bath of your
choice (try the milk option). You'll
then be treated to an aromatherapy
massage, signature facial, administered
on side-by-side treatment tables in the
wonderful VIP Suite. This journey to
remember costs Dhs2,380.
Somewhere else that's somewhat of
a haven amidst the hustle and bustle
of the big city is the Orchid Palace
Wellness Spa (+971 4 381 8887, gloriahotels.com) in Yassat Gloria Hotel &
Apartments. This Thai spa boasts a
mammoth 17 ‘his and hers’ treatment
rooms (with four allocated for couples)
as well as a hammam, and steam/sauna
facilities: basically, all you need for a
comprehensive, aromatically-infused
relaxation session.
69
DXB City Expert
ASk A locAl
Amanda Ennis,
Teacher
My favourite way to spend a Friday,
especially when I have visitors in town,
is to head to Le Royal Meridian beach
club and spend the day lounging by the
pool, occasionally venturing for a dip
in the sea. You can pay as a non-guest
of the hotel to use the beach club on
a daily basis – Dhs250 per adult on
weekdays, Dhs300 at weekends. Kids
are welcomed at half of those prices.
ExplorE
cIty wAlk
City Walk is an open-air retail
and leisure space in Jumeirah with
European-style boulevards, Londonesque streetscapes – complete with
red phone boxes – and the city's first
street art project called Dubai Walls
(dubaiwalls.com). With plenty of
family-friendly indoor attractions, it's
ideal for summer sightseeing too.
Suitable for babies to older kids,
Caboodle Pamper & Play (+971 4 344
4570, caboodle.ae) is a fabulous play
centre full of interactive toys, climbing
frames and soft play areas. There's a
whole host of activities and classes,
including music, dance, cooking and
crafts, along with a café and salon for
parents and their tots. Also good for
little ones, Mattel Play! Town (+971 4
317 3999, playtowndubai.com) offers
educational play and live shows based
around five well-known characters,
including Barney, Angelina Ballerina
and Fireman Sam.
70
What To Do
DXB City Expert
rIGht: XDubai
Skatepark
ExpErIEncE
Snow And IcE
While a winter wonderland in a desert
city sounds fantastical, it does exist in
Dubai. Located in Mall of the Emirates,
Ski Dubai (advanced booking via +971
4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com
or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all
major malls +971 4 316 7506) is the
go-to place for skiing, snowboarding,
tobogganing or just throwing snowballs.
Clothing and equipment are available
for hire, and there are lessons for
budding skiers aged 3 years and up,
while boarders must be at least 8 years
old. And don’t miss the free penguin
parades, which happen daily at 2pm,
4pm, 6pm and 8pm.
Dubai’s other mega mall has its own
penguins too, albeit plastic ones. Dubai
Ice Rink (advance bookings via +971
4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com),
the Olympic-sized rink at The Dubai
Mall, has public skating sessions that
are suitable for beginner and immediate
skaters, as well as snowfall sessions
with a live DJ every Tuesday at 6pm
and 8pm. Penguin Pal skating aids are
available for little ones measuring a
minimum of 100cm tall, while there
are Snowmen for adults and children
over 12 years who are unsteady on their
skates. One-on-one and semi-private
lessons can also be arranged.
tAkE to thE
hIGh SEAS
Sailing and yachting are popular
pastimes in the emirate and cruising
past Atlantis, The Palm towards
the iconic Burj Al Arab at sunset is
one of the most memorable ways to
experience Dubai. Deep sea fishing is
another big draw, with species such
as king mackerel and barracuda
tempting anglers.
First Yacht (advance bookings via
com) specialises in tailor-made
luxury yacht and catamaran charters
and private fishing trips, as well
as powerboat rides and romantic
dinner cruises for two. Sea Hunters
4992, arabian-adventures.com) is
another recommended operator that
can organise deep sea fishing tours,
luxury yacht and catamaran charters,
and flashy speedboat cruises all around
Palm Jumeirah.
hIt thE
bEAch
In our considered opinoin you would
have to be brave, mad, or both to
want to hit the beach this month,
so scorching hot is the temperature.
However, if you’re staying in a hotel
without its own private beach, but a
dose of sea and sand is high on your
holiday wishlist, head down to one
of Dubai’s beautiful public beaches.
Backed by a low-rise collection of
restaurants, cafés and boutiques, and
featuring a winding walkway dotted
with innovative food stalls, The Beach
at JBR (800 637 227, thebeach.ae) is
one of the most popular spots along
the Arabian Gulf. There are well-kept
changing facilities with showers, all
manner of activities to enjoy (from
beach football to early morning yoga),
and you can rent a sunbed with an
umbrella and towel for Dhs110 per day.
Another firm favourite is the stretch
of sand running the length of Umm
Suqeim known as Kite Beach, thanks
to its popularity with kite-surfers (you
can sign up for lessons too). It boasts
a promenade with a handful of cool
cafés, changing facilities and showers, a
jogging track, beach tennis, watersports
and the XDubai Skatepark, but no
sunbed or brolly rental.
Remember that as this month is
Ramadan you shouldn't drink (water
ot otherwise) while in public during
daylight hours – that includes when
you're hot and bothered on the beach.
All thE Fun oF
thE FountAInS
At the foot of Burj Khalifa is a 30-acre
lake, in which stands the world’s
largest dancing fountain. Dubai
Fountain has multiple jets spread
across the lake, which shoot water
500ft into the air – about the height of
a 50-storey building – while ‘dancing’
to the music. Shows are daily at 1pm
and 1.30pm (1.30pm and 2pm on
Fridays) and every 30 minutes from
6pm-11pm. Bag a table on the terrace
of a lake-side restaurant (see ‘Where
to Eat’), watch for free from the
Waterfront Promenade, just outside
the entrance to The Dubai Mall, or
see it in style aboard one of the abras
(traditional Arabic boats) which sail
as close to the action as possible.
Tickets cost Dhs65 per person and can
be purchased from a counter on the
Waterfront Promenade or from At The
Top, Burj Khalifa.
What To Do
71
DXB City Expert
72
Where To Go
DXB City Expert
Chapter SIX
WHERE
TO
go
As the city winds down for summer, and the Holy
Month of Ramadan is expected to begin on June 6,
many of Dubai’s al fresco party spots host closing parties to end the season in style...
end-of-SeaSon partIeS
under the StarS
Since launching four years ago, Blue
Marlin Ibiza UAE (taxi: Golden Tulip
Al Jazira Hotels & Resort, Ghantoot,
+971 51 133 3400) has set the
benchmark high for house music parties
in the country. Thousands of glamazons
make the 30-minute journey towards
Abu Dhabi to this Balearic beach party.
The line-ups are always cutting edge
and big on the house market: think
Ibiza icons like Jamie Jones, Dixon and
Marco Carola. On June 3, they’ll be
ending the season with British techno
legend Richy Ahmed and rising Scottish
star Jasper James, along with Carlo
Andrea Raggi, aka Cirillo, who has
championed the Italian techno sound
for more than 30 years.
Part beach club, part open-air club and
packed every weekend, Zero
Gravity (taxi: Sky Dive Dubai, +971 4
399 0009) is the city’s current hot spot.
It has welcomed big names like Paul
Van Dyk and Mark Ronson, alongside
more alternative stars like Mr Scruff, to
play under the stars. While their final
Friday festival of the season took place
last month, their popular Thursday
House Party will also run on Friday
nights from 8pm to 11pm, although
entertainment will be in keeping with
the UAE laws during Ramadan, so
the sound will be lowered. The chilled
out event will also move into the new
Beach House, an air-conditioned
‘bachelor pad’-style abode at the foot
of the glass-fronted infinity pool with
a photo booth, giant Connect 4, air
hockey and dart board.
Nikki Beach (taxi: Pearl Jumeirah,
+971 4 376 6162) is the city’s newest
beach club and the 13th of its kind to
open worldwide. Like its glamorous
global counterparts in Miami and
Marbella, the Dubai outpost attracts
a beautiful crowd who come to party
from early afternoon around blue-tiled
pools surrounded by white daybeds
and cabanas with billowing drapes.
The resident DJs will say their summer
goodbyes on June 3 and 4, while
the final Amazing Sunday session,
beginning early afternoon and lasting
through sunset, will take place on
June 5.
360° (taxi: Jumeirah Beach Hotel,
+971 4 406 8999) is one of the longestrunning clubs in the city, and boasts
panoramic views across the city from
its perch in the middle of the Arabian
Gulf. The two floor venue hosts
resident DJs every Friday for your
deep house kicks, while rotating
promoters on Thursdays bring in
soulful house, UK bass and dance
classics. The summer farewell kicks
off at 4pm on Friday June 3 and lasts
until the small hours. The drinks are
expensive, but well worth it for the
views and music.
Where To Go
73
about thIS Chapter
During Ramadan, the focus turns to quiet reflection and connecting with family and
friends at iftars and suhoors. Most major nightclubs are closed, while bars will generally remain open but there is no live music and nothing above background music.
Most will only serve alcohol after 8pm to those aged 21 or older, the legal drinking
age in Dubai. We have included a taxi reference for you – ask the driver to head here
– as most will not know the location of the venue if you say its name only.
DXB City Expert
Where To Go
74
DXB City Expert
host cameos from established and
up-and-coming rappers (including O.T.
Genasis), and have a very commercial
hip hop and mainstream house/EDM
soundtrack on the weekend. If you like
to see bottles of bubbly with sparklers
in them paraded every 20 minutes, this
is the club for you. On June 3, DJ Bliss
plays a mash-up of hip-hop, R’n’B and
old-school urban tracks at the final Hip
Hop By Nature night of the season,
while the closing party kicks off the
following night.
Alongside its ultra-glam mahogany
wood-finished walls and deep plum furniture, Vii Dubai (taxi: Conrad Hotel,
+971 50 169 6777) transforms into a
luscious greenhouse throughout the
month of Ramadan. Resident DJ Anton
will be playing deep, tech and soulful
house every Thursday and Friday from
10.30pm until 3.00am, with shisha
available in the adjacent lounge bar
from June 20 until the end of summer.
preVIouS paGe:
Zero Gravity
left to rIGht:
Movida; The Vault
beSt
ladIeS' nIGhtS
end of SeaSon
partIeS IndoorS
A cavernous venue on the 41st floor
of Media One Hotel, Level 41 (taxi:
Media One Hotel, +971 4 427 1000)
hosts pop-up club nights and live music.
From techno to drum and bass and hip
hop to house, the back-to-basics rave
cave hosts the city’s cooler promoters – meaning a clued-up crowd who
aren’t afraid to cut loose on the dance
floor. Recently awarded the city’s ‘Best
House/Techno Night’ gong, the final
Plus Minus session takes place June 3.
With a panoramic view of Dubai’s
skyline, White Dubai (taxi: The Meydan, +971 50 443 0933) is the sister
lounge and club to the Beirut original.
And like its Lebanese sibling, it’s high
on the glam factor, with a good-looking
crowd arriving around midnight every
Thursday, Friday and Saturday for the
hip hop and EDM soundtrack. And of
course, the stunning view back into the
city. See out the season on June 4 with
the best hip-hop and R’n’B tunes from
resident DJ masterminds, Dany Neville
and Devon Kosoko, and complimentary
drinks for ladies.
Another imported chain, Provocateur (taxi: The Four Seasons Dubai,
+ 971 55 211 8222) began life in
New York as a bottle-service club
that catered to high-end house music
lovers. Fittingly, the Dubai branch has
welcomed 4/4 heavyweights like Seth
Troxler and White Island favourite
Solomon during its first season. They’ll
be waving goodbye to the season on
June 3 with dirty deep house anthems
from Spanish underground master,
Dosem. Since its refurbishment in
summer 2015, Movida (taxi: Radisson Royal Hotel, +971 55 1744 449)
has reclaimed its position as one of the
city’s regular hot spots. They frequently
Like Friday brunch, ‘ladies’ night’ is
somewhat of a Dubai institution. Usually staged on Tuesday nights, but now
increasingly popping up at least somewhere throughout the week, the nights
are so-named because ladies get to
drink for free, in some places to a limitless degree. Things obviously quieten
down over Ramadan, although some
venues do still host low-key gatherings
for ladies after sunset.
Located on the 71st floor of the
world’s tallest hotel, Vault (+971 50
738 1388, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.
com) is a two-level lounge bar with a
futuristic feel, thanks to its sleek décor
and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Dubai’s Blade Runner-esque skyline. The ladies’ night takes place every
Tuesday from sunset – midnight, with
three complimentary drinks for ladies
made by the expert mixologists.
Down at JBR, Zero Gravity (taxi:
Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, +971
4 399 0009) hosts a ladies-only Lost
Angels night, every Tuesday from 8pm,
overlooking the glass-fronted infinity
pool and pristine private beach. For
Dhs100, girls can enjoy free-flowing
Where To Go
75
DXB City Expert
drinks, kitsch cocktails and canapés
until midnight.
In Dubai Marina, YNot Bar &
Kitchen (taxi: InterContinental Dubai
Marina, +971 4 446 6669) holds
its ladies’ night every Tuesday from
7:30pm onwards, with three free drinks
for women. It's got a funky, New Yorkvibe (think polished concrete floors and
Banksy-esque murals), knowledgeable
staff and great views.
Where to
WatCh euro 2016
Euro 2016 kicks off on June 10, and
matches will be shown all around town.
Due to Ramadan, alcohol will only be
served at venues after 8pm, which is
when the majority of fixtures will
be played.
Barasti (taxi: Le Meridien Mina
Seyahi, +971 4 399 333) has been
ruling the roost in Dubai for 20 years,
pulling in thousands of revellers every
weekend. The nornally al fresco venue
will go under cover this month, making
for a raucous atmosphere during Euro
2016 matches. Barasti boasts more
serving stations than you can shake
an empty glass at, so getting served
shoudn't be a problem.
An always lively atmosphere is
yours to soak up at Girders (taxi: JA
Ocean View Hotel, +971 4 814 5590),
particularly in its faux garden which
boasts a giant screen – a whole four
metres, to be precise. Smaller screens
inside will also sceen the match. Qube
Sports Bar (taxi: The Meydan Hotel,
+971 4 381 3780), so named because of
its unique draw – a cube screen bearing
four huge surfaces to provide fans with
a fine view no matter where they’re
sitting – makes for a great venue and
serves decent food to boot.
Two other venues which will be
packed to the rafters come kick off time
are McGettigans (taxi: Bonnington
Hotel, + 971 4 378 0800) and The Irish
Village (taxi: Century Village, +971 4
282 4752).
New to town (it opened June 1) is
O’Learys (timehotels.ae). A Bostonthemed sports bar (which doesn't
serve alcohol at any time), you'll find
it on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite
Noor Bank metro station. It houses 21
screens, so you'll only have yourself
to blame if you miss any of the action.
for SomethInG
dIfferent
We’re not sure why it hasn’t been
done before, but Stereo Arcade (taxi:
Double Tree by Hilton, +971 52 618
2424) combines music and a stereo
arcade (with over 50,000 games from
the ‘80s and ‘90s) as well as a slushy
machine, hot dog stand and more. It’s
an unpretentious place and plenty of
fun, especially for those who grew up in
a pre-Xbox era.
For something with a real twist,
push the bookcase in the lobby of the
Dusit Thani hotel. It will open to reveal
a hidden door, on which you’ll knock
to gain entry to the Nippon Bottle
Company (taxi: Dusit Thani, +971 4
357 0779), a Japanese speakeasy. It
offers an impressive list of Japanese
whiskeys, which are now considered to
be some of the best in the world.
In DIFC, Indie (taxi: Gate Village,
DIFC, +971 55 455 6106) is an
eclectic, but nevertheless chic, concept
imported from the region’s biggest
party town, Beirut. With a mix of
contemporary and vintage décor and
three different bars, the relaxed space
does a wide selection of tapas too. It’s
open daily from 5pm–2am, with alcohol
served once the sun goes down.
With Burj Khalifa basically in
its back garden, Treehouse (taxi:
Taj Dubai, +971 4 438 3100) has
unbeatable views from its airconditioned tent pitched on the leafy,
third-floor terrace during Ramadan.
Wooden floors and comfy sofas create
an intimate lounge-bar feel and there’s
shisha, board games and an à la carte
menu of light bites.
76
#holiday
DXB City Expert
#HOLIDAY
From amazing architecture to sweeping sandscapes, you’ll have lots of memories of
your time in Dubai to share via social media. Here are some of our favourite Instagram
snaps of the city. Be sure to share your #VisitDubai and #MyDubai moments too
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
4. Photo credit: @andrewtapper_travel
Explore the old souks during a tour
with Arabian Adventures.
5. Photo credit: @happytummytravels
Be sure to sample some of Bateel's
gourmet dates this Ramadan.
6. Photo credit: @sebastian_t1000
At The Top, Burj Khalifa offers an unbeatable view of the Dubai Fountain.
7. Photo credit: @x5ive2014
1. Photo credit: @abdulaziz_photo
A spectacular sunset view of Dubai's
famous cityscape.
2. Photo credit: @hussain_alshaba
Street artists such as Nick Walker have
left their creative mark in City Walk.
3. Photo credit: @saaggo
The iconic Atlantis, The Palm hotel
captured at dusk.
A stunning shot of Burj Khalifa from
The Palace Downtown Dubai.
8. Photo credit: @visitdubai.ar
Say hello to some feathered friends at
Ski Dubai.
9. Photo credit: @burjalarab
Snapping a photo of Burj Al Arab is
high on most must-do lists.
̾ A reflection of true
Ramadan hospitality.
ƪǡ
Ǥ
ǯ
ơǤ
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CORPORATE IFTARS
Available upon request for exclusive hire and group inquiries.
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The insider`s guide to Dubai`s must-have visitor

Transcription

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