Dubai City - Essential Guide

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 The Meydan Hotel
and Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & 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
info@meydanhotels.com
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
To
DUBAI
Designer
Emi Dixon
Illustrator
Andrew Thorpe
commercial
Managing Director
Victoria Thatcher 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?
Group Commercial We love Dubai and we want to ensure that you feel the same, so that’s why we
Director decided to create this handy-sized, helpful guide to help you on your way.
David Wade
Rather than present you with a long list of recommendations which would take
Commercial Director you the duration of your holiday to read, our Dubai-based team of in-the-know
Rawan Chehab writers have cherry picked the city’s best bits – leaving you free to simply enjoy it.
Business Development Inside this guide you’ll find insider knowledge on everything from the best
Manager restaurants with a view and tips on where to shop for clothes made by the finest local
Rabih El Turk 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
Sales Manager take to see all of this city’s ample attractions.
Lisa Price
This month – most likely from June 6 – Dubai observes the Holy Month of
ProdUcTion Ramadan. It's a wonderful time to be here as a visitor, with the daily iftars and
Production Manager suhoors (see page 14) granting you an opportunity to immerse yourself in local
Muthu Kumar 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 : John ThaTcher

Ramadan Kareem Editorial Director
By Andrew Thorpe 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
On Arrival 5 DXB City Expert
On
ARRIVALYou’re almost there now, but before you
head off to your hotel here’s a little
something to help you on your way
available at both Terminal 1 (+971 4

224 5222) and Terminal 3 (+971 4 220
3013) of Dubai International Airport.
Drivers must be aged 21 or over and be
Leaving The airporT in possession of a valid driving license
have a word
There are ample public taxis available Although English is spoken and
from their home country. Remember
at the airport, though there’s every understood pretty much everywhere
that driving in Dubai is on the right
chance you’ll have to queue to get one. you'll go in Dubai, it's polite to try
hand side of the road.
As you do so, you may notice a line of a little Arabic when you show your
estate-sized pink-roof taxis. These are passport on arrival. If Arabic’s not your
exclusively for women and families, native tongue, here are a few helpful
and are helmed by female drivers only. words…
There are also taxis specifically for
special needs travellers – both can be Marhaba : Hello
requested from the taxi line attendant hire a heLping hand from Sabah al-khayr : Good morning
once you’re at the front of the queue. marhaba As-salaam alaikum : Peace be upon you
Your fare will include an airport pick- If you’re reading this before you travel Ma’assalama : Goodbye
up fee of Dhs25, which is the amount to Dubai, or if you haven’t yet planned Minfadlak : Please
the meter will start from. your return journey to the airport, Shukran : Thank you
Dubai International Airport is it’s well worth checking out the
also serviced by the Dubai Metro. services of Marhaba (+971 4 389 8989,
However, each passenger is restricted marhabaservices.com).
to two pieces of luggage, one of which On arrival, their always-smiling
shouldn’t be bigger than hand luggage. staff greet you as you come off the
Trains run approximately every 10 aircraft, before ferrying you by buggy geT connecTed
minutes and depart from Terminals to passport control and whizzing you Before departing the airport you may
1 and 3 – just follow the signs. Trains past the queues (which can be long) to wish to buy a sim card that’s designed
start at 5.50am (5.30am on Thursday), their dedicated counters and beyond, for visitors to use while in the UAE. It
and stop at midnight (1am on Thursday where a porter will collect your luggage. costs Dhs35 and provides you with The
and Friday). But be aware that trains Services are tailored to suit individuals, Visitor Mobile Line (VML), allowing
start at only 10am on Fridays. There families and those with specific needs. you to make calls – or text – while in
are just two lines, so it’s easy to work Fast-tracking through airport Dubai at a fraction of the cost you’ll
out your route, and you’ll likely find procedures is also a feature of any pay for roaming. You can buy it from
taxis at each station to take you to your return journey you make with Marhaba, the ‘du’ shop in the arrivals hall of
specific address. while you can also book a chauffeur both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Once
If you’re intending to hire a car on pick-up from anywhere in Dubai and purchased you can top it up by buying
arrival in Dubai, you’ll find all the major enjoy the hospitality of their airport pre-paid cards at various convenient
operators are present at the airport. lounge – and its complimentary food locations across the city, including du
Chief amongst them is Hertz, which is and drink – as you await boarding. shops. See du.ae for a list of locations.
So This Is Dubai 6 DXB City Expert
show some respect

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
IS mind while enjoying your holiday…
DU B A I Chapter oNe
Be sure to refrain from over-the-top
You’ve read about it, seen the pictures and marvelled from afar. public displays of affection, even when
Now you’re here. But before heading off to enjoy the holiday in nightclubs.
of a lifetime, here are a few things to put you in the know
A little bit About its Creek origins that residents now Do not succumb to the urge to make
this greAt city of ours… commonly refer to ‘old’ and ‘new’ rude hand gestures to other people –
With a skyline dominated by towering Dubai, with the old part encompassing doing so could land you in hot water.
skyscrapers and now-iconic structures Dubai Creek and the wider Bur Dubai
like Burj Al Arab and Burj Khalifa, it’s area in the north of the city, and the
hard to imagine that Dubai was once new part featuring the strictly modern
little more than a fishing village. The superstructures – Downtown Dubai,
Bani Yas tribe settled next to Dubai Dubai Marina and all – which spread
Creek in 1833, and the area soon for miles into the south of the city. Dress modestly when outside the
became a hub for fishing, pearling and confines of your hotel, particularly if
trading. The discovery of ‘black gold’ the bAsics, iN No more you’re heading to a mall, where women
in 1966 triggered Dubai’s remarkable thAN 140 chArActers shouldn’t leave their shoulders bare.
transformation into the glittering city
of today. The Climate
In 1971, Dubai joined with six Without a doubt, June in Dubai is
neighbouring emirates – Abu Dhabi, hot. Temperatures top 40°C in the
Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, hottest part of the day, with overnight
Fujairah and (in 1972) Ras Al Khaimah temperatures rarely dropping below Taking photos of some government
– to form the United Arab Emirates, 26°C. buildings and all military sites is
and this union is celebrated each strictly prohibited. Stick to the tourist
year on December 2. Under the late The Currency attractions when you’re choosing a
Sheikh Zayed, the first President of the The UAE Dirham is what you’ll use. background for selfies.
UAE, the country blossomed and has Notes come in 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50,
developed into one of the world’s most 20, 10 and 5 and their value is pegged
prosperous, while still remaining true to at Dhs3.67 = US$1.
its rich heritage of Bedouin, Islamic and
Emirati cultures. The Weekend
Today, Dubai is home to over 200 The UAE’s weekend is Friday/Saturday. Don’t drink alcohol, or be seen to
nationalities that are attracted by its Dubai Metro services start at 10am on be overly intoxicated, outside of
opportunities and lifestyle. Such has Fridays (5.30am on Saturdays) and run licensed premises. Unruly behaviour
been the city’s rapid expansion beyond until 1am on weekends. isn’t tolerated.
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Get Your Downtown Dubai

Bearings
Throughout this guide we’ve
referenced areas of Dubai, which
to the first-time visitor may mean
nothing at all. To help, here’s the
skinny on the city’s districts you’ll
most likely encounter...
DowNtowN
DubAi
Home to the 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 sheikh ZAyeD Jumeriah Beach Road, as well as
two beachfront promenades, The Walk roAD trendy shops, cafés and restaurants at
and The Beach at JBR, packed with The 8km stretch of the main highway popular new developments such as The
family-friendly eateries. You’ll also between Business Bay and the World Galleria Mall, Box Park and City Walk.
find the Marina Mall and the Dubai Trade Centre roundabout is popular Jumeirah Mosque is another reason to
Tram, which connects to Palm Jumeirah with tourists, expats and locals alike, visit, especially during Ramadan. The
monorail and will eventually extend to thanks to the clutch of five-star hotels Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural
the Burj Al Arab. including the Fairmont Dubai, The Understanding (+971 4 353 6666,
Conrad and H Hotel, which are easily cultures.ae) offers guided tours every
bur DubAi reached by metro (stations line Sheikh Saturday to Thursday at 10am (Dhs10).
AND DeirA Zayed Road). Just past the roundabout
Flanking the southern side of Dubai is the brilliant Zabeel Park, one of the pAlm
Creek, Bur Dubai is the oldest part of city's largest green spaces. JumeirAh
the city. Here you’ll find the majority Even if you’re not staying here, you
of the city’s historical sites, including can still visit the man-made island
Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed al JumeirAh that’s become a symbol of Dubai. A
Maktoum House, as well as restored Home to sprawling villas and excellent monorail runs along the length of the
wind-tower houses and a textile souk. beaches, this low-rise suburb overlaps trunk to Atlantis, The Palm, where
Over the water, Deira is a melting pot with Umm Suqeim (where you’ll find you can spend the day at Aquaventure
of Arab, Asian and African cultures and Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah, water park. Meanwhile, the 11km-long
a great spot for cheap street eats, as an Arabesque-inspired hotel, dining crescent has a string of five-star hotels
well as shopping in the Gold Souk and and entertainment complex). Jumeirah with restaurants and spas open to
Spice Souk. is known for boutique shopping along non-guests.
10 of the best Mattel Play! Town

ways to beat the heat
this summer
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 Best for… Being at one ‘eduplay’ attraction for kids aged two to
a plane, or just enjoy hovering four WitH nature 10. There are five play zones, live shows
meters above the ground. Open year-round, Dubai Butterfly and a 4D cinema featuring characters
Garden (+971 4 422 8902, such as Fireman Sam, Angelina
Best for… spotting dubaibutterflygarden.com) is a fluttery Ballerina and Bob The Builder.
marine life attraction unlike any other in the city.
Explore the world's largest suspended There are nine air-conditioned domes Best for… a serene
aquarium at Dubai Aquarium & filled with thousands of plants, flowers spa experience
Underwater Zoo (advanced booking and butterflies from around the world. Treat yourself to a Jetlag Reviver
via +971 4 303 4888, arabian- aromatherapy massage at Dubai
adventures.com or City Sightseeing Best for… late nigHt InterContinental Marina (+971 4
Dubai kiosks at all major malls +971 sHopping 446 6643, ihg.com). Using a blend of
4 316 7506). It's home to over 140 Dubai's malls stay open later during individually chosen oils, the skilled
species including sharks, stingrays, Ramadan, often until 2am. Two top therapist will firmly knead away knots
crocodiles and much more. malls to soak up the atmosphere and tension to leave you feeling relaxed.
are The Dubai Mall (800 38224
Best for… local crafts 6255, thedubaimall.com) and Mall Best for… a middle eastern
and organic fare of the Emirates (+971 4 409 9000, cooKing class
Looking to take a piece of Dubai home? malloftheemirates.com). Learn to cook an authentic iftar menu
Find everything from organic skincare at the sleek Top Chef Cooking Studio
and local honey to leather handbags and Best for… Keeping young (+971 4 385 5781, topchefdubai.
handmade jewellery at Ripe Market Kids entertained com) in Jumeirah. You'll learn about
(+971 4 380 7602, ripeme.com), held Just opened at City Walk, Mattel Arabic culture and cuisine and sit
every Saturday from 9am-3pm at Times Play! Town (+971 4 317 3999, down to sample your culinary creations
Square Centre. playtowndubai.com) is a fun-filled afterwards. See the website for details.
What’s on CloCkwise from below:

this month Modhesh World;
Ramadan Night Market;
Experience the community spirit of Modhesh World;
Ramadan Night Market.
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
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 (under-
3s free).
For more events happening this month,

visit dubaicalendar.ae
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 keeps me going on those days Ramadan iftar is the breakfast we eat in
when all I can think about is that the morning, and during Ramadan it is
brownie in the kitchen from last night. the 'break fast' at sunset. In Islam, we're
We look forward to Ramadan – it's recommended to follow the example
a challenge and we don't necessarily of the Prophet Muhammad, which is
whAt is rAmADAN? focus on what we can't have. But there to break the fast with water and dates.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the are days when it's hard and that's when The water refreshes the system and
lunar calendar that we Muslims follow. the community spirit helps. the dates have sugar, minerals and
Fasting during the month of Ramadan vitamins which wake up the digestive
is also one of the five pillars of Islam. is ANyoNe exempt from fAstiNg? system so you will feel better when
The fast is from sunrise to sunset Yes. Anyone who is very sick, to the you go to eat other food. Most Muslims
and we’re not eating, drinking or point where if they were to continue around the world will break their fast
inhaling any substance that will reach the fast it would be detrimental to with water and dates. In the UAE, we
our stomach. If we have to take in them. If you are sick and you need add something called luqaimat, which
something for medical reasons, this is a medicine that is swallowed or inhaled are small fried balls of dough covered
different case. through the nose, then you must take in date syrup. They're technically a
But it's not just abstaining from food the medicine and not fast. Elderly breakfast food – we serve them at our
and drink; it's abstaining from what people and small children don't fast, nor cultural breakfasts at the centre – but
the physical body wants so the soul, do travellers – even if you feel capable very few households make them during
from sunrise to sunset, can focus on of fasting, the fast is not accepted the year, so we have them when we're
worship. We're abstaining from our and you have to make it up later. For breaking the fast during Ramadan.
natural instincts in a way and things pregnant women and breastfeeding
that the physical body wants have to be women, it's up to them really if they feel whAt is the sigNificANce of
denied, just as a test. And also it helps they can fast or not. Then depending on chArity DuriNg rAmADAN?
us remember those people who don't why you're not fasting, you either have Because you're feeling what poor
know if they're going to have a meal at to make up the fast after Ramadan or people are feeling, you feel more
sunset so we feel more thankful. you have to pay a 'ransom', which is a charitable. Then the last 10 nights
meal for a poor person. during Ramadan are special, as Laylatul
whAt is the Atmosphere like Al Qadr (the Night of Power) comes
DuriNg rAmADAN? whAt is iftAr AND suhoor? during this time, although we don't
There's a community spirit as everyone Suhoor is the meal before sunrise. know when exactly this night is. It's the
else around you is fasting, and that's Iftar means breakfast so, outside of night when the Quran was revealed to
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 Ramadan Dos  However, it’s not a problem for young
and finish by Ramadan. and Don’ts children to eat and drink as normal in
public places. Likewise those who are
Are there Any etiquette tips for You’ll love Ramadan in Dubai. Iftars pregnant, elderly or sick.
visitors during rAmAdAn? and suhoors are great to attend
I think all of the things they should as a non-muslim as they convey a  It’s very important to dress modestly
be mindful of year-round, they should real feeling of peace, happiness and during Ramadan when in public,
especially try to adhere to during harmony. The cultural sensitivities including within shopping malls – cover
Ramadan. So modest clothing, based you’ll adhere to as a visitor to Dubai your shoulders and knees.
on what’s considered modest here, (see page 6) are heightened during
rather than their home countries, and the Holy Month of Ramadan, but  Dubai’s roads are particularly busy
try to be patient with us – sometimes there are a few Ramadan-specifics to around Iftar time and, as drivers who
dealing with fasting people, especially be aware of… are fasting tend to be tired, accidents
during the first 10 days, is challenging. can occur at a greater rate than outside
Visitors must also remember that, by  You can’t eat or drink (water of Ramadan. Try to avoid travelling at
law, people are not allowed to eat or included) in public during daylight this time, if possible.
drink in public [from sunrise to sunset]. hours. You should also abstain from
However, children can walk through smoking or chewing gum. All hotels  If you’re travelling on the Dubai
the mall drinking a juice, for example will have at least one venue – or Metro or Dubai Tram and listening
– this is fine, as even Muslim children designated screened-off area – open to music, make sure it isn’t audible to
are not required to fast. Visitors [non- during daylight hours to cater to your fellow passengers. Loud music and
Muslim] shouldn’t be shy about letting those who wish to eat and drink dancing (should the urge take you) are
their children eat or drink in public. as normal. not permitted during Ramadan.
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Top Of The Tours 19 DXB City Expert
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…
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

info@cs-dubai.com, or visit citysightseeing-dubai.com
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 info@cs-dubai.com, or visit citysightseeing-
dubai.com
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
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

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

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
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

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

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, four-
seater vehicles that were built for fun.
incluDes:
• Fully guided tour along the dunes
• Driving and safety instruction provided
• All dune buggies are four-wheel-
drive, fully automatic with seat belts,
roll cages and off-road suspension
• Driver experience and passenger
experience options are available
• Shared buggy or private buggy option
• Fantastic desert photo opportunities
Days of operation: Daily (half day,

morning/afternoon)
What’s incluDeD: Soft drinks; guided
tour; hotel transfers
gooD to knoW: Sports shoes
recommended; operates year-
round; drivers must be minimum 18
years of age and carry a valid UAE
or international driver’s licence;
passengers must be aged six and above
pricing: Per person (sharing); 30-min
driving time: Adult/Child: Dhs695
Per person (sharing); Passenger:
Adult/Child: Dhs300
Private buggy (for up to 4 pax):
Dhs1,500 per buggy

'neW' dUbaI CIT Y 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
Where To Eat 30 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 Dubai - is the sea-view Ramadan tent both you can watch as chefs cook up a
OFFERINGS at Kempinski Hotel Ajman (+971 6 storm of traditonal Arabic fare as well
Ramadan Kareem! Enjoy the 714 5555, kempinski.com/ajman). as Indian and Italian dishes. Dhs200 for
community spirit of Ramadan in Dubai The atmospheric tent houses multiple two at The Market Place; Dhs150 for
by attending one of the many Iftar and live-cooking stations and traditional two at Town Square. Dhs45 for kids.
Suhoor events held after the sun goes Arabian entertainment, backed by a Ritz-Carlton Dubai (+971 4
down. We’ve rounded up a selection sumptuous iftar buffet that’s available 318 6646, ritzcarlton.com/dubai)
to suit all tastes, with iftars starting at until 8.30pm (thereafter, à la carte introduces the spectacular Mamemo
sunset until around 8-8:30pm, followed service commences in the same venue Majlis for the month of Ramadan,
by suhoors until the early hours. until 3am). Dhs140 per person. replete with specially selected furniture
Set on the shore, the Asateer Tent at The ballroom of JW Marriott and works of art. Inside you’ll be
Atlantis, The Palm (+971 4 426 0800, Marquis Hotel (+971 4 414 0000, treated to the sight of chefs readying
atlantisthepalm.com) is one of Dubai’s jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) will myriad Arabic dishes from wholesome
most glamorous Ramadan locations. be just as opulent as it is transformed ingredients, and musicians playing live.
The buffet features regional favourites for Ramadan into a white, gold and Dhs220 per adult; Dhs110 per child
such as lamb ouzi and fish sayadieh, royal blue lounge with live oud music over five.
along with oud players and traditional and a buffet featuring classic Arabic Against the backdrop of the Dubai
activities such as backgammon. Dhs205 cuisine. Dhs195 per person. Fountain and with subtle Arabesque
per person. At sister hotel JW Marriott Hotel design, the Saraya Tent at Armani
Also set aside the sea – this time Dubai (+971 4 607 7977, marriott. Hotel Dubai (+971 4 888 3666, dubai.
on a more pristine beach in Ajman, com) iftar is served in two spots: armanihotels.com) provides a stylish
a 30-minute drive from Downtown Market Place and Town Square. At setting for seasonal gatherings. There’s
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.
a daily-changing collection of Iftar and coyarestaurant.com) has a set menu

Suhoor menus, as well as a la carte offering a choice of four delectable
shisha. Iftar from Dhs250 per person. mains. Dhs240 per person.
Over at the beautiful Park Hyatt The South American twist on Iftar
Dubai (+971 4 602 1234, dubai.park. continues at Gaucho Dubai (971 4
hyatt.com) iftar is served via live 422 7898, gauchorestaurants.com) in
cooking stations in the stylish setting DIFC, where a three-course set menu
of Café Arabesque, from where you can is offered. The choices include its famed
soak up views of the atmospheric Dubai full-bodied, beautifully marbled beef.
Creek. Dhs200 per person.
For another glimpse of old Arabia, A TRuE TASTE
visit the air-conditioned tent at OF THE EmIRATES
Al Hadheerah (+971 4 809 6194, Considering all of the colourful cuisines
meydanhotels.com) at Bab Al Shams Dubai has to offer, it might come as a
Desert Resort & Spa. From authentic surprise that good Emirati food is not
Middle Eastern cuisine and live music so easy to come by. However, slowly
to a camel and horse caravan show, but surely more and more authentic
it promises to be a magical evening. Emirati restaurants are cropping up
Dhs250 per person. across town.
Meanwhile, a cultural Iftar at An enduring favourite is Al Fanar
the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for (+971 4 232 9966, alfanarrestaurant.
Cultural Understanding (+971 4 com) located along Canal Walk in
3536666, cultures.ae) provides a Festival City. You can dine outside on
unique opportunity to break the fast floor cushions at the traditional majlis
with Emirati locals, who will explain or at a table in the central courtyard
the UAE’s customs during Ramadan. area that looks like a traditional Emirati
From 7pm-9:30pm, Dhs135 per person. home. The food is fresh and hearty
To get a real sense of modern with dishes such as chicken machboos,
Dubai, head to the Sky Bubble at The grilled shaari fish and jesheed (baby
Meydan Hotel (+971 4 381 3111, shark with onions and punchy spices).
meydanhotels.com), a stunning spot Another place which has started
that offers 360-degree views of the to pull in its fair share of local Emiratis
city. Enjoy a sumptuous Iftar buffet for (always a good sign) is Al Barza
Dhs170 per person, followed by à la (+971 4 343 5310) on Jumeirah Beach
carte offerings and shisha for Suhour. Road. The setting is a modern take
The full flavour of the Middle East is on the traditional architecture of the
on offer at H Hotel (+971 4 501 8888, region, but the food is undeniably
h-hotel.com) which you'll find at the authentic – here you can try camel
prestigious One Sheikh Zayed Road meat, at its best in a burger.
address. Inside its pop-up marquee, The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for
sharing plates from a particular region Cultural Understanding (+971 4 353
will be offered and changed daily, 6666, cultures.ae) also offers authentic
ranging from Moroccon to Lebanese, Emirati cuisine, but with a welcome
Egyptian to Turkish and all in between. twist. The interactive ‘cultural meals’
This is a great option if you're sampling they serve – so named because guests
Middle Eastern food for the first time. are encouraged to ask questions on
Dhs170 per person. anything that relates to the Emirati
For another iftar with a difference, culture – are prepared by local chefs
Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar (+971 4 in order to preserve the traditions and
414 0000, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife. customs of the Bedouin culture. They
com) has a special menu of 11 dishes offer cultural breakfast on Mondays
celebrating the heritage of Indian and Wednesdays, cultural lunch on
cuisine, with à la carte options available Sundays and Tuesdays, cultural brunch
after 8pm. Dhs325 per person. every Saturday and a cultural dinner
If you’re partial to Peruvian, the every Tuesday. Advance booking is
always-good Coya (+971 4 316 9600, essential for every meal.
pREVIOuS pAGE: WIDER (AND

Coya
THIS pAGE:
WONDERFul) ARAbIC
Rang Mahal 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 never-
fail option for families. Don’t be swayed
by Ramsay’s name into thinking that
this is a fine dining and, by extension,
expensive restaurant. This is more
gastro pub and good value, too.
Another Brit chef to cause a stir ClOCKWISE FROm

bElOW: Bateaux
in Dubai’s bubbling pot of great Dubai; JW Marriott
Marquis; Zuma
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 longest-
running 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. fully knowledgeable of what they’re bussoladubai.com) at The Westin Dubai
The ever-changing menus are exquisite serving, and the vibe relaxed. Mina Seyahi has long been a favourite.
examples of fusion fare. Save room in your affections too for Crusts are thin and crispy and toppings
Inka (+971 4 346 9295, inkadubai. generous, with over 30 varieties
lOVEly lATIN com) at Sofitel Downtown Dubai. The to choose from. The open kitchen,
AmERICAN intimate dining room is complemented complete with chefs tossing dough into
Just like other cities across the world, by super nice staff and a lounge area the air, adds to the atmosphere.
Dubai is currently in love with Peruvian that’s perfect for pre- or post-dinner For a crisp, yet foldable New York-
food. In fact, a few of the city’s hot- drinks (and fine views of Burj Khalifa), style pie that pays homage to its
right-now restaurants serve authentic while their chilli-laced rocoto ceviche Neapolitan roots, say hi to The Pizza
examples of this fabulous cuisine, which and chicken anticuchos are divine. Guys (800 843 4897, thepizzaguys.ae)
puts melt-in-your-mouth meat to good at Bay Avenue in Business Bay. There
use as much as the freshest fish. While pERFECT are five signature pizzas, all of which
you’ll be right to love Coya (+971 4 pIzzAS are hand-tossed and finished with
316 9600, coyarestaurant.com) at the For a quick and casual meal, you can’t Italian extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil
Four Seasons Dubai, we have a thing for look past a pizza. Dubai has plenty and parmigiano reggiano. Our tip? Pull
the more casual Garden (+971 56 224 of places serving up crisp crusts and up a stool at the communal counter
0956, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) superlative sourdough bases with and order The Godfather (Dhs60) with
at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. nary a pineapple in sight. The upstairs wagyu beef meatballs and melted fior di
Here the chef is Peruvian, the staff are pizzeria at Bussola (+971 4 511 7136, latte mozzarella. Bellissimo.
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 WHAT’S NEW dubaideiracreek) at Radisson

your swimsuit, Nonno (800 696 66 IN TOWN? Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek. In
66, nonnopizza.com) is a chic pizzeria, Dubai's ever-advancing gastro scene additional to listing traditional dishes
also in Business Bay, specialising in sees a raft of new restaurants opening on the menu (like samak, a local fish
paper-thin crusts with no sugar or salt. each month. Here's our pick of those in gravy served with date rice) are
Sauces are made from scratch and go just opened... dishes made using local ingredients
straight from blender to base, toppings Another month, another Peruvian (including camel stew). Go on,
are super fresh and some pizzas come in restaurant opens its doors in Dubai. be brave. It'll make for a great
at less than 400 calories. That doesn’t Hoping to follow where all have holiday anecdote.
mean they’re boring, though. Try the succeeded so far is Totora Cebicheria Over at the newly created Pearl
Absolutely Fabulous (Dhs48) with Peruana (totora.com) at Gate Village, Jumeira, Satine (+971 4 376 6168,
slow-roasted free-range chicken. DIFC. A restaurant and bar set over satinebynikkibeach.com) is the first
Down in JLT, Jazz@Pizza Express two floors, the highend offerings here restaurant to open at the new Nikki
(+971 4 441 6342, pizzaexpressuae. are created from Peruvian ingredients Beach Dubai. Inspired by Nicole
com) remains a popular pizza joint. and balance beautifully with an Kidman’s character from the hit movie
For anyone familiar with the UK brand inventive cocktail list. Get here before Moulin Rouge, the stylish restaurant
there are no surprises in store, but the the It Crowd takes over. has a Med-influenced menu and a
pizzas are fresh, flavoursome and a cut Traditional Emirati fare is the large outdoor terrace facing the sea.
above your average chain. They also offering of Aseelah (+971 4 205 This place buzzes at the weekend, so
have a great deal on drinks from 4pm. 7333, radissonblu.com/hotel- book ahead for then.
DINNER WITH AN taking in the sights of 'old' Dubai ClOCKWISE FROm

INCREDIblE VIEW as you feast on fine dining dishes bElOW:
Katana; Catch;
One of the most striking spots in like baked chermoula prawns with JB's Gastropub;
Gaucho Dubai
Dubai to enjoy outdoor dining is on the a wonderful ginger and coriander
westernmost tip of Palm Jumeirah – couscous. This is Bateaux Dubai
from here you get to drink in picture- (advance bookings via +971 4 303
perfect views of Dubai Marina and Burj 4992, arabian-adventures.com),
Al Arab. Just off a jetty that juts out where boarding is at 7.45pm nightly
into the azure waters of the Arabian and disembarking at 11pm. This
Gulf, lies 101 Dining Lounge and Bar month, Bateaux Dubai operates until
at One&Only The Palm Dubai (+971 June 12, setting sail again on June 29.
440 1010, thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.
com). This sparkling, shimmering DINING IN
venue serves sublime contemporary THE DESERT
European fare from a menu that has For an atmospheric Arabian Desert
been rubber-stamped by French super- experience, head to Al Hadheerah
chef Yannick Alléno – here we enjoyed (+971 4 809 6194, meydanhotels.
the softest squid we’ve ever tasted. The com) at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
whole experience can be heightened and Spa, about 30 minutes’ drive
by catching a boat to the restaurant from Downtown. Designed like an
from sister hotel One&Only Royal oasis town, guests at the open-air
Mirage. Booking is essential, as is a pre- restaurant are entertained under
boarding drink in the Jetty Lounge. the stars by falconry displays, camel
If you want a fine vantage point to rides, belly dancers, musicians and a
see the Dubai Fountain dance its way spinning tanoura dancer. There’s also
toward the night sky – and believe an impressive buffet overflowing with
us, you do – book a table at Thiptara hot and cold mezze, Arabic sweet
(+971 4 888 3444, theaddress.com) treats such as baklava and kunafa,
at The Palace Downtown Dubai. The along with live cooking stations
name Thiptara means 'magic at the serving up shish taouk and slow-
water' and the traditional Thai recipes roasted lamb ouzi.
with Bangkok-style influences are as If you’re after a more romantic
magical as the setting. setting, Arabian Adventures (+971 4
Nothing tops the view of Burj 303 4992, Arabian-adventures.com)
Khalifa that's served up – along with offers a private desert safari through
incredibly good food – at Katana the Dubai Desert Conservation
(+971 427 78808, katana-dubai.com). Reserve, followed by a gourmet
Hailing from LA's sunset strip – Katana dinner – reached on camel back –
specialises in the ‘robatayaki’ style of at your very own, torch-lit Bedouin
authentic Japanese cuisine, whereby camp. On the menu are grilled meats,
bamboo skewered gourmet fish, meat fresh salads, delectable sweets and
and vegetables are grilled over a unlimited house beverages, followed
charcoal-induced open flame. by an aromatic shisha pipe if you
It's fabulous. so wish.
How about dining as if under The luxurious Al Maha Desert
the sea? Of course it’s possible: this Resort (+971 4 832 9900, al-maha.
is Dubai. A whole-wall aquarium com), which overlooks the Dubai
forms the backdrop to a meal at the Desert Conservation Reserve around
excellent Ossiano (+971 4 426 2000, 65km southeast of Dubai, also offers
atlantisthepalm.com) at Atlantis, The a private dune dining experience.
Palm. Your credit card will enjoy a good Available for in-house guests and
workout here, but hey, you’re those staying elsewhere, your private
on holiday. tent features Persian carpets, plump
For something altogether different cushions and flickering flame torches,
try a dinner as you float down Dubai while dishes include Arabic mezze and
Creek in a boat-turned-restaurant, Catalan seafood stew.
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.
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 There’s no dedicated kids’ menu here, HEAD TO

WITH yOuNG KIDS but on offer are smaller portions of pIER 7
Eating at your hotel can be expensive main dishes, including a fine spaghetti It’s a pier, it has 7 floors. That’s the
– especially if you have a whole and meatballs. reason for its name covered off. But
family to feed – but fear not: Dubai Over at Italian restaurant Sapori Di what’s of real note here is that each
has plenty of options for good value, Bice (+971 4 344 2550, saporidibice. floor is devoted to a different-style
great quality fare. Ideal for tiny tots com) at City Walk, kids get to create restaurant. It’s also the only licensed
is bookstore-slash-café BookMunch their own pizzas, with multiple fun- premises on Marina Walk in Dubai
in Al Wasl Square (+971 4 388 4006, shaped bases on offer. Marina. And so to the good stuff...
bookmunchcafe.com). It serves up tasty Meanwhile, if you’re looking for The Scene (+971 422 2328,
treats (try the blueberry pancakes) somewhere to eat with your baby, thescenedubai.com) by TV chef and
and stocks plenty of children’s books, try Pantry Café (+971 4 388 3868, serial author Simon Rimmer is the
ensuring your kids get food for thought pantrycafe.me) on Al Wasl Road. While frontrunner here. British-style comfort
as well as the belly. Bystro (+971 336 you enjoy wholesome, locally-sourced food is the jist of it – think succulent,
8056, bystrodubai.com) on Sheikh food, your baby will get messy sucking deep-filled pies, feather-light battered
Zayed Road offers a special kids’ corner on free veggie puree. fish and chunky chips – but if you
featuring mini tables and chairs, as well With its seaside location at The want something less filling, the grilled
as toys and books. The food will please Beach JBR and double-height dining halloumi, pear and salted hazelnut salad
kids and adults alike; choose from space lined with bookshelves, Big Chefs is delicious.
sandwiches, great breakfast options, (+971 4 5515302, bigchefs.co) has a No prizes for guessing the cuisine
weekend roasts, and – intriguingly – stylish, yet homely feel. The huge menu cooked up at the excellent Asia Asia
dinosaur ribs. has over 145 dishes across a multitude (+971 4 276 5900, asia-asia.com), but
Baker & Spice’s (+971 4 362 4686, of cuisines, from Turkish and Arabic there might be a prize if you can find
bakerandspice.com) Marina Promenade to Tex-Mex and European, along with a dish, anywhere, that tickles your
location in Dubai Marina is arguably a separate kids’ menu, meaning you’re tastebuds as much as their tiger prawn
the pick of the chain’s four venues in bound to find something for even the Kerala masala. Meanwhile, if you want
the city – you'll get to enjoy views of fussiest of eaters. Just be sure they leave a side order of animated atmosphere
the yachts while eating tasty home- room for dessert – the Oreo Nutella with your mains of slow-cooked prime
style dishes, the ingredients for which cheesecake is one your kids won’t beef back ribs, then head to Cargo
are often drawn from local farms. want to share. (+971 4 361 8129, cargo-dubai.com).
Promotion
What To Do 39 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
no further: here your every whim is
catered to with the utmost luxury.
The organic Italian restaurant
with exciting prizes, whilst showing
all the matches on three large screens
(daily, 6pm-2am). The attraction of the
from Dubai International Airport. This is made for indulgent weekends month is the biggest sea-view Ramadan
resort is tailored to meet your every throughout the month of Ramadan, tent in the Northern Emirates, where
need, complete with a 500m white- as the New York-style Italian brunch a lavish spread of traditional Iftar
sand private beach and endless leisure unveils its delicacies every Friday treats, live-cooking show kitchens
facilities, as well as 166 rooms and 14 (1-4pm), offering an unforgettable and authentic Arabian entertainment
suites featuring modern Arabic decor dining experience with live-cooking create the perfect setting for 250 guests
and overlooking the Arabian Gulf. If stations and dazzling entertainment. at the city’s most exquisite venue.
you are looking for a seaside beach hotel Meanwhile, the best live football from Iftar buffet at the sea-view Ramadan
where you awaken to the sounds of the EURO 2016 is brought to you by the tent is daily from sunset to 8.30pm. Room
waves lapping the shore, or a romantic Euro Village in World Cup Bar, offering rates are AED350 (T&C apply), call
getaway from the outside world, look speciality dishes and daily lucky draws +971 6 714 5555
Play Video kempinskihotelajman KempinskiAjman kempinskihotelajman kempinski.com/ajman

NICE AND ClOCKWISE FROm IN-

SpICy SET: La Serre; Marina
Social; Sumosan
An offshoot of its New York-
based, Michelin-star toting elder
sibling, Junoon (+971 4 405 2717,
junoonrestaurants.com) at Shangri-La
Dubai is a standout example of how,
when it’s done as well as this, there are
few finer cuisines than Indian when it
comes to robust flavour combinations.
Let your waiter guide you through the
must-haves (there are many) but have
stern words if he fails to mention the
Shahi Lamb Shank – as tender a meat
as you’ll ever try, it comes, teased from
the bone at your table, with a beautifully
balanced black cumin rose curry. You’ll
also adore the Macchi Masala: pan-
roasted, flake-at-the-touch-of-a-fork
artic char that’s coated in a wonderful
green chili coriander marinade.
Tong Thai at JW Marriott
Marquis (+971 4 414 3000,
jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com),
meanwhile, showcases unique regional
Thai dishes alongside street food
favourites and authentic yet inventive
classics we all know and love. Regularly
voted the best Thai restaurant in the
city, signature curries like creamy
Panang Kung with tiger prawns and Gai
Phad Ka-Prao with chili and hot basil
pack plenty of depth and flavour, while
classics like Tom Yum and Pad See-Eiw
have been honed to perfection. The
dining room itself is glorious riot of red accounts to discover where it's at. at the opposite end of the glitz in
and orange hues, with glittering lanterns Shiny new truck Calle Tacos (+971 Dubai's dining spectrum, is Bu Qtair
suspended from the ceiling and floor-to- 55 171 5712, calletacos.ae) dishes up (+971 55 705 2130), which has
ceiling windows overlooking Business street-side tacos, nachos and burritos drawn a devoted following for more
Bay, albeit only from the fourth floor. complete with utterly delicious salsa – than two decades. While it’s recently
handmade from a secret family recipe. upgraded from its original beach shack
FOR DubAI’S ANSWER Look out for the bright orange truck to a simple restaurant in the nearby
TO STREET FOOD at Ripe Market, Dubai World Trade fishing harbour, it continues to attract
With gourmet food trucks rolling Centre, and many of the city's big crowds who queue for the freshest
out across Dubai at an astonishing festivals – it's hard to miss. Another prawns and catch of the day, both of
rate, there’s bound to be one on the one to add to the list is the hugely which are served with curry sauce,
tarmac (or sand) near you. Stalwart popular Salt (instagram.com/FindSalt). rice and bread
Ghaf Kitchen (+971 4 443 0355, With its silver Airstream parked
ghafkitchen.com) was the first permanently at Kite Beach alongside SO yOu CAN SAy
restaurant-on-wheels concept in the an air-conditioned glass-walled terrace, yOu’VE bEEN THERE
city and serves a variety of British it serves just three types of gourmet If you only know a handful of things
classics with a decadent twist, all sliders packed with flavour. There’s also about Dubai, one may be that it’s
supplied from a lovingly restored retro a mobile truck that pops up at Dubai’s the home of Burj Al Arab, that most
Citroen H van. The truck travels to coolest events – follow it on Instagram famous of hotels. You’ll doubtless leave
various events across the city so keep to get the exact location. Dubai with a picture of yourself posing
an eye on its Facebook and Twitter Also along Jumeirah Beach Road, and against a backdrop of it, but why not go
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 settings to enjoy the finest cuts of meat York (+971 4 344 4459, burgerjointny.
way to experience the culinary offering and fish to grace a menu. com), which you’ll find at City Walk,
of the Burj is via its Culinary Flight: is on quality alone, with the options
your dinner begins with a cocktail at bIG, bEAuTIFul limited to just hamburgers and
Skyview Bar before you embark on buRGERS cheeseburgers. Their meat is minced
a journey through five grape-paired Brilliant burgers aren’t confined to on the premises to ensure consistency
courses at five different restaurants. the menus of Dubai’s hotel-based of flavour.
The food is superb and the service restaurants. In fact, the city’s best Moylo’s (+971 4 388 3140,
exceptional. You'll perhaps only find burgers are served in stand-alone moylosburgers.com) is a homegrown,
fault with the changing ambience (from venues. This is certainly true of Burger hole-in-the-wall joint on Jumeirah
the perfect to the poor) as you move Fuel (+971 4 445 8220, burgerfuel. Beach Road, just down from Sunset
through restaurants. It costs Dhs1,350 com), which has various branches Mall. Quirky and colourful with an
per person from 7pm-midnight. across the city – the best of which, industrial edge, it features a wire
You’ll need to book ahead to dine at due to it being beside the sea, is at counter covered in padlocks customised
the world’s highest restaurant, which The Walk, JBR. The concept is 100% by patrons (including one by Dubai’s
spans much of level 122 of the Burj New Zealand grass-fed beef, a 1/3 Crown Price, Sheikh Hamdan). There
Khalifa, but you’ll be glad you’ve done pound patty of which is chargrilled are five burgers to choose from,
so. You arrive at At.mosphere (+971 to perfection and placed within a including the new Truffle Shuffle with
4 888 3828, atmosphereburjkhalifa. wholemeal bun. Thereafter, you can 100% Wagyu Beef and homemade
com) via the world's fastest elevator, pick multiple extras to stuff inside. truffle mayo, and three milkshakes (we
before settling down in the swankiest of The emphasis at Burger Joint New say salted caramel all the way).
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 stand-
outs – and more contemporary
interpretations such as slow-cooked
veal cheeks with eggplant puree.
Don’t leave without trying the freshly
baked carob bread.
From the same team, Mythos
Kouzina & Grill (+971 4 399 8166,
mythoskouzina.com) feels like a little
slice of Santorini hidden away in
JLT’s Armada Bay Hotel. Kitted out
like a traditional seaside taverna with
whitewashed walls, rustic furniture
and light blue banquettes, the simple
menu is a mix of traditional dishes
such as keftedakia (meatballs) and
grilled calamari, together with home-
style favourites like mousaka and
gigandes (butter beans). The word is
out about this well-priced gem, so be
sure to book ahead.
Down at The Beach at JBR, Eat
Greek Kouzina (+971 4 430 5249,
eatgreekkouzina.com) has a more
urban feel with distressed wood floors,
exposed brickwork, and a beautiful
sea view. The large menu has all the
classics, including salads, hot and cold
appetisers, gyros and souvlaki stuffed
pittas, as well as mixed grills, seafood,
fish, lamb and even burgers. It’s open
for breakfast from 8.30am, and there’s
a second branch in the Mall of the
Emirates, too.
pREVIOuS pAGE,
lEFT TO RIGHT: JW
Steakhouse; Satine
THIS pAGE: Novikov
TOp
TApAS
With an open kitchen, funky murals COOl
and baskets hanging from the high CAFéS
ceilings, Salero Tapas & Bodega Craving a good cup of coffee or a slap-
(+971 4 341 0000, kempinski.com) at up breakfast? Newly opened at City
Kempinski Mall of the Emirates looks Walk, the al fresco shopping and dining
more hipster eatery than traditional district in Jumeirah, The Brass (+971
tapas joint. However, the all-Spanish 4 385 6971, thebrass.ae) features
staff, led by head chef Oscar Leon, gorgeous golden interiors and an
ensure the no-nonsense, garlic- extensive menu of speciality brews such
smothered tapas are entirely authentic. as lavender honey lattes and Arabic
There’s a great selection of hot and cold coffee flavoured with cardamom, along
tapas such as Galician-style octopus with pastries, cakes, salads, sandwiches
and pork cold cuts, along with three and flatbreads.
types of paella and a separate kids’ Meanwhile, The Majlis Dubai
menu. The vibe is relaxed and casual, (themajlisdubai.com) in the grounds of
with flamenco on Wednesdays from Jumeirah Mosque bills itself as the city’s
8pm and a resident DJ. “first and finest camel milk café”. Come
Casa de Tapas (+971 4 416 1800, here to try the signature camelccino or
casadetapas.ae) at Dubai Creek Golf camellatte made with specially roasted
and Yacht Club has lovely views over Ethiopian coffee beans and deliciously
the Creek and a large upside-down smooth camel milk, along with Arabic
lemon tree sprouting from the ceiling. coffee served from a traditional dallah
The menu is packed with classics, pot, and muffins, éclairs and ice cream
including Spanish omelette and garlicky made from, you guessed it, camel milk.
steamed clams, along with more Leading the way when it comes to
inventive dishes such as paella de fideua hipster cafés, The Sum of Us (+971
(made with angel hair pasta, squid ink 56 445 7526, thesumofusdubai.com)
and prawns) – reportedly the only place in the Burj Al Salam building behind
in Dubai where this delicacy is served. the Sheraton Hotel has industrial-chic
BOCA (+971 4 323 1833, boca.ae) interiors, a sourdough bakery and
in DIFC, meanwhile, strays from Spain its own coffee roastery. As you can
to include sharing plates from Italy imagine, it smells pretty good – throw
and France on its menu too. From Med in an inviting menu of breakfast, lunch
staples such as sweet Padrón peppers and dinner dishes, such as French toast
and grilled sardines to 12-hour braised with salted caramel sauce or Parmesan
lamb and lobster ravioli, dishes are crusted chicken breast, and you can see
served as they’re ready making for a why it’s one of Dubai’s most popular
relaxed, grazing-style meal. The menu spots (open daily from 8am–10pm). If
also has a raw section with carpaccios, you’re in need of sustenance between
crudos and tartars, along with a bouts of shopping at the Mall of the
22-strong list of grape available by the Emirates, stop by sister café, Common
glass. Choose a spot at the buzzing bar Grounds (+971 5 0478 1094), near
or outdoor terrace, or head down to the Vox cinema, for top-notch coffee,
the cellar for a food and grape pairing superfood salads and delicious burgers
experience hosted by the sommelier. and baguettes.
Where To Eat 44 MIRDIF DXB City Expert
MUHAISNAH
11
27
12 12
13
14 Dubai
AL TWAR International
Airport 11
5
To Sharjah
8
16 RASHIDIYA
12
13 NAD AL SHEBA
AL ITTIHAD
17 ROAD 14
22
DEIRA 16
HOR AL ANZ 18 15
18 30
10
16 29
17 Dubai At The Top
19 2
Creek
30
13
28 33
20 18 27
Meydan
18
21
22
26 2
11 19 Z A’ A B E E L
25 9 23
20
23 6
3 21
Burj Khalifa >
BUR DUBAI 22
15
24 23
13 31
24
SHEIKH RASHID
25
ROAD >
1 AL SATWA AL KHAIL RO
4 26 Business
MAP 1 Bay
50
20
21
29
Port Rashid 26 AL QUOZ

7
28
Public Beach MAP 2 29

< SHEIKH ZAY
Shopping Metro (red line) Metro (green line) JUMEIRAH
U
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 Public Beach
23
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 33
The World
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
RTA Ferry
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
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 Palm
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
Arabian Adventures
Information Desks
14 3 Madinat Jumeirah Al Qasr
5 Atlantis, The Palm
4 Anantara The Palm
9 Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel
12 Fairmont The Palm
13 Grand Hyatt Dubai
16 Hilton Dubai Jumeriah Resort
17 Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Residence
City
IMG Theme Park
AD
AIN
RO 18 Hyatt Regency Dubai
AL
20 JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort
MAP
23 Jumeirah Beach Hotel
25 Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Em
irate
sR
oad 28 JA Oasis Beach Tower
31 Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa
Global Village 33 Madinat Jumeirah Mina A’Salam
36 One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai
50 Arabian Adventures Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai World
Central >
Arabian Ranches
SH
EI
KH
M
O
HA
M
M
ED
BI
N
ZA
YE
D
RO
OAD
AD
Dubai Autodrome
Sports City
YED ROAD
31
24
UMM SUQEIM 32 25 AL BARSHA
33
32
3 34
AL SUFOUH
35
36
4 36
37
9
17
12 31
28 38
19
16
25 17 39
5
Jumeirah Dubai Marina
MAP 3 To Jebel Ali >
MAP 4
To Jebel Ali Golf
20
Resort & Spa >
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
bRIllIANT chips, fresh burrata with heirloom

bAR FOOD tomatoes, and lamb pate with
If you’re looking for somewhere to Indian spices.
watch the Euro 2016 tournament Take a break from shopping and visit
– group matches kick off at 6pm, Brunswick Sports Club (+971 56 404
9pm or midnight local time – or just 0685, brunswicksc.com) at Sheraton
after a casual meal, Dubai’s bars and Dubai Mall of the Emirates for ribs,
pubs offer a plethora of delicious crisp squid, fried chicken and some of
light bites. For a laidback affair, head the best burgers in town.
to Bidi Bondi (+971 4 427 0515, At the opposite end of Mall of the
emiratesleisureretail.com) on the trunk Emirates, Après (+971 4 341 2575,
of Palm Jumeirah. With national flags emiratesleisureretail.com) is the
hanging from the walls and plenty of UAE’s only après-ski gastropub. With
television screens, the massive menu an international menu, there’s plenty
features kangaroo sliders, Queensland to choose from, but the stone-fired
lamb cutlets and New Zealand grass-fed pizzas are easily some of the best in
rump steak alongside plenty of familiar the city. Couples should plump for
bar staples. the traditional Swiss cheese fondue
Down at JBR, JB’s Gastropub and tuck in as you watch Ski Dubai’s
(+971 4 428 3084, rotana.com) at snowboarders swoosh down the slopes
Amwaj Rotana is about as far from the in front of you.
traditional image of greasy onion rings
and soggy nachos as you can get. The DIVINE DIm Sum,
selection of cheese and cured meats AND THEN SOmE
on display will seriously tempt you, No self-respecting cosmopolitan
or there are more substantial menu city can call itself a self-respecting
options such as smoked beef brisket cosmopolitan city unless it has
sandwich, steamed Mediterranean a Hakkasan (+971 4 384 8484,
mussels, and build-your-own mac hakkasan.com). Happily, Dubai does
and cheese. (at Jumeirah Emirates Towers) and the
Hugely popular with residents of The high-end chain doesn’t disappoint with
Lakes community near Emirates Golf its chic contemporary Chinese décor,
Club, Reform Social & Grill (+971 4 expertly-made dim sum and oh-so
4542638, reformsocialgrill.ae) offers fashionable bar.
a classic ‘Best of British’ menu, along Shang Palace (+971 4 405 2703,
with summer salads and sharing plates. shangri-la.com) at the Shangri-La
There’s also an air-conditioned tent Dubai is an old favourite which never
where you can watch all the action fluctuates from serving up outstanding
during Euro 2016. examples of Cantonese cuisine: case in
The menu at The Black Lion point, the signature cod fish with grapes
(+971 4 359 2366, theblacklion. and well-balanced orange sauce.
ae) at The H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed If you’re feeling decadent,
Road, meanwhile, takes you from late head to Shiba (+971 4 381 3111,
breakfast through to the wee small meydanhotels.com) at The Meydan
hours. Munch on Korean short rib buns Hotel. Chinese meets Japanese on the
and salt beef sandwiches, or pitch up menu here, with some superb examples
here for the all-day roast served from of big-hitting dishes from each – the
midday until 11.30pm on Saturdays never-fail miso-marinated black cod
and Sundays. reprenting Japan; the stir-fried fresh
Moving Downtown, The Eloquent scallops with a tongue-numbing XO
Elephant (+971 4 438 3131, tajhotels. sauce in the Chinese corner.
com) at Taj Dubai is a contemporary- For a budget-friendly, brilliant
styled gastropub complete with and authentic Chinese restaurant
filament light bulbs, industrial stools, experience, head to China Sea (+971
and leather barstools. On the menu 4 295 9816) in Deira – go Peking duck
you’ll find posh grub including truffle before heading upstairs for karaoke.
THIS pAGE:
Tortora
SuCCulENT that every table is adorned with brass

STEAK plaques with the names of diners who
Most high-end hotels in Dubai are always sit at the same spot. With wood
endowed with a high-end steakhouse panelling, overstuffed armchairs, a long
offering premium beef staples like mahogany bar and Frank Sinatra tunes
wagyu that are far from cheap. But, playing in the background, the décor of
budget aside, there are some brilliant this classy steakhouse sets the tone. The
steaks to be had in this city. menu features the finest cuts cooked
Heading up our list of top tables is to perfection, while seafood lovers can
Prime68 (+971 4 414 3000, choose Maine lobsters and Dungeness
jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com) at crabs straight from the tank. For steaks
JW Marriott Marquis, which is a cut that cut like butter and excellent service,
above (pun intended). The premium JW’s is pretty hard to beat.
beef here is sourced from choice J&G Steakhouse (+971 4 435 5577,
suppliers across the globe and tastes stregisdubai.com) at the St. Regis Dubai
sublime, matched by the views from is another standout. Managing to marry
the 68th floor. Accompaniments such masculinity to elegance, the setting here
as black truffle butter add a little extra is just about perfect for you to savour
oomph, while add-ons like lobster tails fabulously high quality cuts of meat (as
and crab cake are an indulgent treat. well as seafood and raw bar selections).
Overlooking the famous horseracing In fact, such is the restaurant's quest
track, Prime Steakhouse (+971 4 for perfection that nothing is left to
381 3111, meydanhotels.com) at chance – so much so that exclusive
The Meydan Hotel is a destination cattle are raised only for this restaurant
restaurant that never fails to impress. (yes, you did read that right). It's listed
With plush décor, low lighting and as Queensland AACO Beef on the menu,
a pianist tinkling on the ivories, this and tastes superb. Pair it with a side of
romantic spot serves only the finest potato gratin, topped with a creamy,
cuts of premium beef sourced from nutty Comté cheese, and bookend it
around the world including Tajima with a wonderful scallop sashimi on
Wagyu and grain-fed Black Angus. black truffle toast and the flamboyant
With throne-like chairs and informed bananas foster – a genuine showstopper
service, you’ll feel like royalty when of a dessert.
dining here. For somewhere lighter on your
Opened in 1996, JW’s Steakhouse wallet, go to Soho Grill (+971 4 286
(+971 4 607 7977, marriottdiningatjw. 8520, sohogrill.ae) at Century Village,
ae) is a Dubai institution, and rightly Garhoud (one of four branches in
so. Chef Mohammad Iqbal has been the city). The meat here hails from
in the kitchen from day one and Australia and New Zealand (two of the
knows each of his (many) regulars’ world’s finest suppliers), and you can
preferences by heart – it’s so popular bag a grass-fed fillet for just Dhs100.
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
IF you book just one
of it very cheap and delicious. That’s
Place whIle you're here
particularly true of Saravanaa Bhavan
thIs month, make It...
Al Fanous Lounge, JW
(+971 4 334 5252) in Karama, whose
Marriott Marquis Hotel
vegetable curries pack in brilliant
Dubai (+971 4 414 3000,
flavour and cost an average Dhs15.
marriott.com)
Also in Karama is Calicut Paragon
(+971 4 449 8560, paragonrestaurant.
It's all about iftar this month,
net), which serves curried Keralan
so where best to head to soak
seafood specialities, while Rangoli
up the warm and inclusive
Vegetarian Restaurant (+971 4 351
atmosphere – and enjoy a
5873, rangolirestaurants.com) in
genuine feast of Arabic fare?
Meena Bazaar, Bur Dubai, serves food
Our top tip is housed within
hailing from the Gujarati region of
the world's tallest hotel, JW
India (imagine platters upon platters
Marriott Marquis Dubai. Its
of delicious thali, which just keep on
ballroom will become the
coming). The Dubai institution that is
opulent Al Fanous Lounge
Ravi Restaurant (+971 4 331 5353)
for the duration of Ramadan,
in Satwa serves Pakistani-style curries,
where live oud players set
with favourites including chicken achar,
the tone for a memorable
keema fry and chicken methi. These
holiday experience.
places are strictly no frills, but when
the curries are so good and such great
value, who cares?
Fast, FIllIng noodles

(and a bIt more besIdes)
The Noodle House (+971 4 366
6730, thenoodlehouse.com) is a real
homegrown success story, and is the
go-to place for steaming hot bowls of
fragrantly-spiced pad thai and myriad
other dishes inspired by the street foods
of Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bangkok and
Jakarta. The dishes are never-fail and
good value to boot, which makes it a
great option for families – it even has a
funky kids’ menu, comprising the likes
of wok-fried satay chicken noodles.
You’ll find branches of The Noodle
House across the city, including one at
Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
The menu at Veda Pavilion (+971 4
361 8845, emiratesleisureretail.com)
on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah moves
beyond Far Eastern staples to include
a head-popping free-range chicken
vindaloo. As such, everyone in your
dining party is likely to find something leFt:
that really hits the spot here. Armani/Hashi
Heavenly THiS page: BOCA

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. treats to compliment your pot of tea. have your fish in a number of ways,
Dhs125 per person, daily 2pm-7pm. Dhs195 per person. but you don’t need to look beyond the
Meanwhile, be transported to an simple grilled version. If you only have
English summer garden at Rhodes SumpTuouS time to eat out once or twice while
W1 (+971 4 317 6000, rw1-dubai. Seafood you're here, make Catch a must-dine.
com) at Grosvenor House Hotel. With While most menus these days feature For classic seaside favourites at a
sunny lemon tones and walls covered ample fish dishes, restaurants which reasonable price, stop by The MAINE
with fake grass and white butterflies, specialise in serving up our fishy (+971 4 457 6719, themaine.ae) at
this classy but casual dining spot from friends are in surprisingly short supply the DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR. Part
Dubai-based British chef, Gary Rhodes, across Dubai. That’s one of the reasons American brasserie and part European
serves afternoon tea every Wednesday why Catch (+971 4 357 1755, catch. bistro, the unpretentious venue
to Saturday from 2.30pm to 5pm. From ae) was so warmly received by locals features a raw bar overflowing with
finger sandwiches in savoury flavours – and remains one of the hottest fresh oysters, ceviche and seafood
such as quail's egg mayonnaise and tables in town with an atmosphere to towers, along with grilled steak, chops
onion and herb Croque Monsieur to match. Hailing from NYC, the other and a variety of vegetarian dishes.
warm crumpets with fresh raspberries good reason that this contemporary With touches of nautical glamour and
and homemade scones, the fine china American seafood restaurant finds a seafront-facing terrace, it’s also a top
cake stands come piled high with tasty favour is, of course, its food. You can spot to head for relaxed sundowners.
DINING The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri ClOCKWISE FROm

AT DIFC in Burj Daman building is a recent bElOW: Big Chefs;
The Maine;
You may want to check in with your Italian import that’s already got Dubai’s Gaucho; Dubai
Sumosan.
bank manager back home before gastronomes buzzing. Originating in
heading to DIFC for dinner (especially Florence, the thrice-starred Enoteca
with the whole family), but your Pinchiorri was founded by sommelier
reward for blowing your budget will Giorgio Pinchiorri and Annie Féolde,
be a truly memorable meal. Within the self-taught (French) executive chef.
DIFC is Gate Village, where amidst the The Dubai outpost is a more relaxed
high-end galleries and auction houses version of Italian fine dining, with an
are some of Dubai’s – and the world’s emphasis on amazing ingredients all
– best restaurants. Listed at number imported from Italy (the restaurant
88 in Restaurant Magazine’s 2015 even has its own brand of Parmesan
list of the World’s Best Restaurants is and olive oil). Overseen by head chef
the ever-popular Zuma (+971 4 425 Luca Tresoldi, who has worked in
5560, zumarestaurant.com), where Florence under Féolde for the last five
the outstanding Japanese food is best years, signature dishes like octopus
ordered to share. In fact, what always slow-cooked in homemade olive oil and
works well here is to ask your waiter to tuffoli pasta with veal shank stew are
order for you. New-to-the-menu dishes sublime examples of just how beautiful
that you'll want to try, courtesy of new and delicate Italian food can be when
Executive Chef Pawel Kazanowski done to this incredibly high standard.
and a hint of influence from CEO and
Founder, Rainer Becker, include a SublImE SuSHI
sublime thinly-sliced chutoro tuna, AND SASHImI
chilli, coriander, and sesame. Beyond the elsewhere-mentioned
It may have slipped from that same Zuma and Nobu, Dubai is also
list of best restaurants (it was placed home to a couple more standout
at 81 in 2014) but La Petite Maison Japanese restaurants. One of them,
(+971 4 439 0505, lpmlondon.co.uk/ Armani/Hashi (+ 971 4 888 3888,
dubai) is still great. It uses produce armanihotels.com) is housed at the foot
from local UAE farms in a number of of Burj Khalifa in Armani Hotel Dubai.
its sublime dishes, all of which have You'd be hard pushed to find anywhere
their roots in French Mediterranean serving up seafood as good as that
cooking – dishes like the burrata with served here.
basil and tomatoes and the salt-baked TOMO in Raffles Dubai (+971
seabass are legendary amongst Dubai 4 357 7888, tomo.ae) is helmed by
gourmands. chef-owner Chitoshi Takaashi, who has
A mere stone's throw from DIFC devised a menu that’s vast and packed
– though admittedly by a very strong with fantastic authentic Japanese
arm – is the always-in-vogue La delicacies, best navigated with the help
Cantine Du Faubourg (+ 971 43 527 of a waiter. The terrace here bestows
105, lacantine.ae), as fashionable a brilliant views of Burj Khalifa.
restaurant as you'll find this side of the, Ex-Zuma chef Reif Othman’s Play
erm, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. (+971 4 225 6000, h-hotel.com) at
As is increasingly popular these days, The H Hotel was an instant hit when
sharing plates is the concept here, so opened at the outset of 2016. Playfully
take your pick from a catwalk-length (naturally) described as Mediterrasian
menu of mid-sized dishes, the standouts – a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian
from which are the crab-avocado salad flavours – the twists on classic dishes
and (the exceptional) slow-cooked here are a real delight. Be sure to order
wagyu short ribs. As expected, you the duck gyoza and Takumi Wagyu
should turn up fashionably late to ribs - both of which are divine. The
experience the atmosphere at its always-buzzing bar and DJ means the
buzzing best, something heightened by atmosphere at dinner is as playful as
its brilliant inside-to-outside setting. the menu, although if you’re a non-
smoker the restaurant area can get THESE pAGES:

uncomfortably smoky. The Artisan
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.
DINE AT
THE bEACH
The Beach at JBR – a brilliant
pedestrianised area mere metres from DINE
the sand and sea – is the perfect place DOWNTOWN
to head for a good-value feed with In addition to The Beach, Downtown
your family in tow. Your best bet is to Dubai is one of the few areas in the
simply stroll the length of it, stopping to city where you can walk along the
peruse the menus at places that catch street or, in this case, wide boulevards
your eye – there are myriad cuisines lined by trees and lit by tiny, twinkling
to choose from. But were you to twist lights at night. You’ll pass an array of
our arm we’d heartily recommend good-value independent restaurants
the following. Pots, Pans & Boards as you saunter past the skyscrapers,
(+971 4 456 1959, thebeach.ae) is serving up everything from gourmet
one of Dubai’s more interesting recent burgers and American classics at
openings. Helmed by Tom Aikens, Ashton Kutcher-owned Ketchup (+971
who remains the youngest UK chef to 4 363 8595, ketchup.ae) to the menu
have scooped two Michelin stars, the mash-up at Loui’s (+971 4 457 2411,
concept here is sharing dishes (make louisrestaurant.net) where Lebanese,
sure you get the lion’s share of the Mediterranean and Japanese dishes all
lobster mac and cheese), which you’ll vie for your attention.
enjoy in a relaxed, informal (even the The al fresco terrace is also a major
chairs are mismatched) vibe. Almaz by draw at Fümé Neighborhood Eatery
Momo (+971 4 551 6247, momoresto. (+971 4 456 8784, fume-eatery.com)
com) is one place that will definitely at Manzil Downtown Dubai, but the
catch your eye. Here you can look out home-style cooking is the real crowd
to the sparkling sea while enjoying your charmer here.
pick from a menu of North African and New to this neighbourhood is Ting
Levant-inspired dishes. Think piping Irie (+971 4 557 5601 tingirie.com)
hot tagines, slow-cooked meats and at Downtown Boulevard offers up
grilled fish. Jamaican staples courtesy of Executive
Busaba Eathai (+971 4 428 1421, Chef Craig Wong (of Jamaican-Chinese
thebeach.ae) is a Thai restaurant with heritage) who has a CV boasting stints
roots – and multiple branches – in the at multi-Michelin starred restaurants
UK, where it was founded by Alan Yau, Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée and
the man responsible for introducing Heston Blumental’s Fat Duck.
Hakkasan to our tastebuds. You’ll If you’re coming to Downtown Dubai
find the food here is undeniably tasty, on the hunt for a meal you’ll remember
particularly if you order one of the long after your flight home has left the
spice-laden curries (ask for it hot), yet a runway, it has to be La Serre (+971 4
great deal lighter on your wallet. 428 6969, laserre.ae). Great service,
Breathing in the sea air may well put even better food, and an atmosphere
you in the mood for the ocean’s finest rarely bettered anywhere else in the
catches. If so, crack open a crab at city, this is another place where you
Aprons & Hammers (+971 4 456 7888, should let the waiter order for you –
apronsandhammers.com). Crab and just hope they mention the tagliatelle
shrimp are served by the bucketful – with black prawns and smoked duck.
along with a dollop of family fun – with It's divine. Le Serre's downstairs
diners having to work for their meal boulangerie is also a great – and very
by crushing crustaceans with hinged popular – place to head for an al
crackers and (you guessed it) hammers. 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 food court available for non-fasters) here it’s a given that you’ll lose your
Malls and open after sunset, serving until as bearings, but there are numerous help
Few places in the world ‘do’ malls like late as 3am to accommodate those who desks (and even buggies to ferry you
Dubai. Ever since the first shopping are fasting. around if you’re flagging). Don’t leave
centre swung open its doors in 1980 With over 1,200 stores under its without visiting Level Shoe District
(the Al Ghurair Centre) there has been gargantuan roof, The Dubai Mall (800 (+971 4 501 6939, levelshoedistrict.
a steady flow of malls opening up across 38224 6255, thedubaimall.com) should com), which houses every designer
the city. Whether you’re in town for be your first stop. Consisting of four shoe brand known to mankind; the
one day, one week, or longer, there’s a levels – plus an aquarium, Olympic- region’s first Bloomingdale’s (+971 4
mall for you. size ice rink and a 22-screen cineplex 350 5333), and an outpost of France’s
During Ramadan, opening hours at – it was named the largest shopping famous Galeries Lafayette (+971 4
malls across the city are extended to centre in the world by the Guinness 339 9933, galerieslafayette-dubai.com).
around 2am. Most cafés, restaurants World Records when it opened in Mall of the Emirates (+971 4
and fast food outlets within the malls 2008, and is positively packed with 409 9000, malloftheemirates.com) is
will be closed during the day (although both designer and high street stores. At another big shopping draw. Following
some of the bigger malls may have a some point during your shopping spree its recent 36,000 square-metre
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 Sunday-
Wednesday 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.
extension (which saw 20 new fashion Battuta, the décor alone makes for pReviOUs page:
brands, 12 restaurants and a 24-screen great snaps. The Dubai Mall
this page: Jimmy
VOX Cinemas added) this mega mall It’s bargains galore at Dubai Choo, Mall of the
Emirates
has over 560 stores to roam. Make sure Outlet Mall (+971 4 423 4666,
you become acquainted with Fashion dubaioutletmall.com), located 30
Dome, an area dedicated to designer minutes outside the city. Offering
garb; Boutique 1 (+971 4 395 1200, previous seasons’ wares of top brands
boutique1.com), a homegrown retail at heavily discounted prices, must-visit
star stocking global and local labels; shops here include Burberry, Coach,
the UAE's largest Alexander Priceless and The Outlet, which stock
McQueen (+971 4 347 0239) store, clothes and accessories from the city’s
stocking seasonal collections as well biggest luxury department stores.
as classics like skull scarves and
knuckle box clutches; and Harvey sOUveniRs
Nichols – Dubai (+971 4 409 8888, tO savOUR
harveynichols.com), which houses a It’s time to say farewell to tacky
winning mix of international fashion token gifts and hello to something a
heavyweights and much more over its little more authentic – starting with
three floors. Arabica coffee. While a number of
Next, hop in a taxi – or take the coffee shops in Dubai serve Arabica
metro to BurJuman Metro Station coffee (with a signature date), few sell
1 – to BurJuman (+971 4 352 0222, the beans to take away – apart from
burjuman.com) one of the oldest the Dubai Coffee Museum (+971 4
shopping malls in Dubai. Offering wall- 353 8777, coffeemuseum.ae), that is.
to-wall high fashion, from Fendi and The museum, which is located in the
Versace to the UAE’s only Saks Fifth Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood,
Avenue (+971 450 12700, saksme. is split across two levels with a coffee
com), here you can shop for designer bar on the top floor. It is here that the
names in relative calm. museum’s bubbly barista John Paul –
Back on the metro, continue for an expert when it comes to drinks of
three stops along the Red Line and the caffeinated kind – serves and sells
you’ll reach Deira City Centre Mall Arabica coffee for visitors looking for
(+971 4 295 1010, citycentredeira. a souvenir with a touch of authenticity.
com) home to over 370 retail stores. It’s open 9am until 5pm every day,
Aside from the shops, the mall houses except Friday.
Magic Planet, a super-sized indoor Like coffee, poetry forms a
family entertainment centre. cornerstone of Dubai’s history. Head
A hop and skip from here is to the vast Kinokuniya (+971 4 434
Festival Centre (+971 4 800 332, 0111, uae.kinokuniya.com) bookshop
festivalcentre.com), an urban retail in The Dubai Mall to pick up an Arabic
resort nestled in Dubai Festival City. poetry book from one of the many
Set on the historic Dubai Creek, it shelves stacked high with tomes.
offers a potpourri of shops (mostly Calligraphy, too, is synonymous with
mid-range) and some great waterfront Emirati heritage. Gallery 1 (+971 4
cafés that are perfect for a pit stop after 432 7493, g-1.com), which has shops
sunset. in Souk Al Bahar and Souk Madinat
Shoppers who need a fuss-free Jumeirah, among other locales, stocks
retail spree should head to Dubai an enviable selection of calligraphy
Marina Mall (+971 4 436 1020, keepsakes – from cards and prints
dubaimarinamall.com), which offers a to notebooks.
stylish mix of high-street brands on a Oud, a scent synonymous with
more manageable scale, or Ibn Battuta Dubai, will undoubtedly make for
Mall (+971 4 362 1900, ibnbattutamall. a memorable holiday memento,
com). Touted as the world’s largest with most of the malls and markets
themed shopping mall and based on mentioned in this section offering
the travels of Arabic explorer Ibn bottled or bespoke versions for men
and women. But for noses that prefer

softer scents, head to Villa 515 (+9714
39 54 054, villa515.com), an olfactory
sanctuary for bespoke fragrance.
Located in Jumeirah 3, this perfumer
boasts a shop and a laboratory that’s
specifically designed for perfume
customisation – perfect for creating
your own holiday scent.
best OF
bespOke
Dubai has garnered a well-deserved
reputation for custom tailoring over
the years thanks, in part, to an
abundance of fabric stores and quick
turnaround times – great for visitors
like yourself.
Areas synonymous with tailoring
include Satwa – Deepa’s (+971 4
349 4434, deepastailoring.com) is a
popular spot; Karama – Dream Girls
(+971 4 337 7287) is a regular for
Dubai’s females; and Bur Dubai –
Parmar Tailors (+971 4 3513112,
parmartailors.com) is a firm favourite
for made-to-measure. These three
locations make for a great day out in
old Dubai, regardless of whether or not
you’re looking for bespoke attire.
Men, meanwhile, should stop by
Royal Fashion (+971 4 368 6192,
royalfashion.biz) at Souk Madinat
Jumeirah (it also has branches in
various hotels in Dubai). The tailors
here create made-to-measure suits
and shirts at reasonable prices, and can
send them on to your home country
should they not be ready before you fly
home.
Couples looking to say ‘I do’
should stop by the popular Gold &
Diamond Park, along Sheikh Zayed
Road. It's a hive of activity with lots
of jewellery stores offering custom-
made luxuries. (+971 4 362 7777,
goldanddiamondpark.com). Here,
Monili Jewellers (+971 4 340 7537,
monilijewellers.com) is a standout
boutique. It houses a range of
diamonds and semi-precious to
precious stones, which the boutique's
artisans can put to good use by creating
bespoke pieces for you. At this Dubai
stalwart haggling is an absolute – and
welcomed – essential.
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 ran under the iconic Gate Building of Dubai’s newest shopping centres,
Comptoir 102 (+971 4 385 4555), a in the fourth installment of Mission: aptly named The Mall (+971 4 348
conceptualised eatery selling kitsch Impossible) should pay Momentum 4848, themall.co.ae), opposite Jumeirah
clothing items alongside a delicious (+971 4 327 4320, momentum-dubai. Beach Hotel. Flooded with natural
vegan food menu. com) a visit. This vintage and rare light, the mall houses 55 stores and
In Umm Suqeim is IF Boutique watch store offers a raft of timepieces food outlets including Boho Beachwear,
(+971 4 394 7260, ifboutiquedubai. as well as service and repair. Big Brands Factory Outlet and French
com), a villa which houses cutting edge fashion retailer, Escales.
designs from a whole host of quirky Mini Then continue along Jumeriah
international designers, including Malls Beach Road to Sunset Mall (+971 4
Yohji Yamamoto. They might not be as big as Dubai’s 330 7333, sunsetmall.ae), home to
A short drive down the same street jumbo malls but the city’s smaller West L.A boutique and its batch of
you’ll find Garderobe (+971 4 394 counterparts are chock-full of labels underground fashion brands from
2753, garderobe.ae), a hotbed for pre- worthy of your holiday dirhams. Most across the globe.
owned luxury fashion. There is vintage of the mini-malls are located along Two other must-visit
Chanel alongside Celine, Balenciaga Jumeirah Beach Road and Al Wasl shopping havens here include
beside Burberry, and Dior in company Road – two roads that run parallel. the Mediterranean-inspired
with Dolce & Gabbana. Simply drive up one, turn around at Mercato Mall (+971 4 344 4161,
Holidaymakers planning on retracing Drydocks Dubai, and drive down mercatoshoppingmall.com) – here
Tom Cruise’s footsteps at Dubai the other. you’ll find a brilliant boutique called
International Financial Centre (Cruise Kick-off your mini-mall trawl at one Bagatelle (+971 55 312 6822) which
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, Rag & Bone and Karl Lagerfeld, then Square Centre, on Sheikh Zayed Road.
shoes and jewellery – and The catch a film at Reel Cinemas or take Focused solely on local artisans and
Galleria Mall (+971 4 344 4434), the kids to Mattel Play Town, a newly designers, there's also live music, pop-
another new name in the independent opened indoor ‘eduplay’ centre. up fitness classes and activities for the
mall arena and home to quirky stores If you want to fully explore the kids. It takes place every Saturday from
such as SoH (+971 4 344 4147, soh. Jumeirah/Al Wasl area but haven’t 9am-3pm.
ae) a beauty-salon-meets-art-gallery- rented a car, a good option is to hire a Now in its fifth year, the Ramadan
meets-boutique, and ValleyDez (+971 taxi for a six-hour stint for a flat fee Night Market (ramadannightmarket.
4 321 2898, valleydez.com), which of Dhs500. You must book 24hrs in com) promises to be bigger than ever.
stocks a great range of cool designer advance (+971 4 208 0000, dubaitaxi. Held over 10 days from June 23 to
and ready-to-wear clothing. ae). July 2 at Zaabeel Hall 4 and 5 at Dubai
And while most of the city's al- World Trade Centre, the market
fresco shopping precincts wind down indOOR features a huge array of clothing,
over summer, City Walk (citywalk.ae) MaRkets jewellery, perfumes, homewares,
at the junction of Al Wasl and Al Safa Dubai really heats up this month, electronics, toys, handicrafts and
Road aims to bring the outside in with bringing an end to the al-fresco markets souvenirs. There are also food stalls
a new boulevard-style shopping which are a feature of the winter dishing up regional and international
area with a glass roof, subtle air- shopping season. Ripe Market (+971 treats, and a kids' play area with face
conditioning and plenty of natural light. 4 380 7602, ripeme.com) is one of the painting, bouncy castles, climbing walls,
Window shop without breaking a sweat city’s most popular, and for the summer trampolines and more. It's open from
at boutiques like American Vintage, months it takes refuge inside Times 8pm to 2am.
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
this page: The
4 388 2828, westlaboutique.com) in Dubai Mall
Sunset Mall.
Besides the malls, the streets along
Jumeirah Beach Road, Al Wasl Road sOUk Over the water, on the Bur
and the surrounding roads are dotted speCtaCUlaR Dubai side of Dubai Creek, you’ll
with villas housing local design talent. It’s no surprise that one of Dubai’s find Bur Dubai Souk, a labyrinth of
You’ll find Dubai fashion star Rami oldest settlement areas provides the passageways teeming with stores
Al Ali (+9714 394 5607, ramialali. base and backdrop for one the city’s selling clothes, camels (miniatures, of
com), whose couture collections have most authentic shopping experiences: course), cushions and much more. The
appeared at Paris Fashion Week, in Deira. Nestled in the neighbourhood’s best way to get here from the Spice
villa 697 on Al Wasl Road. Book a maze of winding walkways you’ll find Souk is by hopping on board a sturdy
consultation or simply scour the rails the Dubai Gold Souk – best reached abra boat at one of the many stations
for haute couture inspiration. by taxi, although the nearest metro stop along Baniyas Road – for just Dhs2
Superstar designer Ezra (+971 4 is Al Ras. The residents love it because per person, you’ll be standing on the
395 5385, ezrafashiondesign.com), it reminds them of days gone by, while other side of the creek in five minutes.
best known for his dreamy, extravagant tourists like it for the quality and The Dubai Textile Souk,
gowns, creates his masterpieces from variety of gold – and the fact that you meanwhile, is a fabric fairyland for
his atelier in Dubai’s Jumeirah 3 (villa can haggle over the price. shoppers looking to create bespoke
746, Al Wasl Road). With Britney A quick march from the Gold Souk garments. From swathes of silk for
Spears and Michelle Rodriguez for will lead you to the Spice Souk, home sarees and wedding gowns, to bolts
clients, Ezra is a must-visit boutique to a number of thatched market stalls of embroidered cotton, you would
for ladies who are looking for five star selling spices that are certain to pull at be hard-pressed to find a souk more
quality couture. your purse strings. colourful than this.
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 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures.com) transfers so you can really arrive in
From thE Sky offers a range of scenic joy flights, style. Meanwhile, Heli Dubai (advance
Skydiving is on every daredevil’s bucket including the Dubai Creek Silver tour, bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian-
list and there’s no better place to do a 40-minute ‘dock to dock’ seaplane adventures.com) takes off from Dubai
it than here. Skydive Dubai (+971 4 excursion above the historic Creek, Festival City, with 12- or 22-minute
377 8888, skydivedubai.ae) has one of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and more. aerial tours over Dubai’s stratosphere-
the world’s most spectacular tandem If VIP bling is more your thing, nudging skyscrapers.Leaving the glitz
jumps over the iconic Palm Jumeirah. nothing beats hovering around town and glamour of the city behind, a hot
Or if you'd rather not leap out of a in a helicopter. Fly High Helicopter air balloon ride over the desert as
plane, iFly Dubai (+971 4 231 6292, Services (advanced booking via City the sun comes up is an unforgettable
theplaymania.com) lets you defy gravity Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major experience. Balloon Adventures
in its amazing indoor wind tunnel. malls +971 4 316 7506) offers 15- or Emirates (+971 4 285 4949, ballooning.
For more sedate sightseeing, 25-minute tours from its helipad at ae) will take you up, up and away in
Seawings (advance bookings via +971 Atlantis, The Palm, as well as helicopter either a large group or a private charter.
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...
GEt wEt prEVIouS pAGE: Seawings

And wIld thIS pAGE: Dolphin Bay
Water babies are spoilt for choice as

Dubai has two world-class waterparks
that have something for all ages.
Located in front of the sail-shaped
Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi (advance
bookings via +971 4 303 4992,
arabian-adventures.com) is the more
manageable of the two, with over 30
rides and attractions. From kid-friendly
slides and the relaxing lazy river, to
adrenaline-fuelled surfing experiences
and the truly terrifying Jumeirah
Sceirah, it’s impossible not to have fun
at this fantastic park.
Over on Palm Jumeirah you’ll find
Aquaventure (advanced booking via
+971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.
com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks
at all major malls +971 4 316 7506)
at Atlantis, The Palm. It comprises
17 hectares of heart-stopping slides,
rides, pools and interconnecting
waterways, along with a huge kids’
play area, exhilarating zip line, pristine
private beach, private cabanas and
the not-so-small matter of Shark
Lagoon, where you can hand-feed
gentle rays. Celebrating your birthday
while in Dubai? Register online
at atlantisthepalm.com for a free
Aquaventure day pass to use anytime
during your birthday week.
On a smaller scale – and therefore
perfect for the toddlers – is Splash ‘n’
Party (+971 4 388 3008, splashnparty.
ae), which you’ll find in Al Safa 2,
Jumeirah. Water slides, splash pads and
huge buckets which soak all below are
all guaranteed to spread a smile on kids’
faces, while parents will be similarly
enthused by not being charged an entry
fee. Admission for kids is Dhs80 on
weekdays and Dhs100 at the weekend.
ExplorE thE
Art ScEnE
With a keen focus on contemporary
art, Dubai has a burgeoning art scene
centred around the financial district
of DIFC and the industrial area of Al
Quoz. The former is home to a dozen
spaces including Ayyam Gallery (+971
4 439 2395, ayyamgallery.com), which
promotes emerging and established
65 DXB City Expert
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 ASk A locAl
Avenue (+971 50 556 9797, Rebecca Haddad,
alserkalavenue.ae), can be found in Al Digital content strategist
Quoz. There are around 15 galleries
housed in converted warehouses, During Ramadan I love to
including Mojo (+971 4 347 7388, participate in the sunset
themojogallery.com) and Leila iftars held across the city.
Heller Gallery (+971 56 831 3520, For those completely new to
leilahellergallery.com). One exhibition the city, it's hard to beat the
worth checking out this month is Downtown Tent (+971 4
“Observing the Ritual” at Gulf Photo 423 8883) at the foot of the
Plus (+9714 380 8545, gulfphotoplus. Burj Khalifa. There, you can
com). The exhibition sheds light on feast on an endless array of
the most intimate moments of life for traditional dishes and enjoy
practising Muslims, from communal views of the famous tower
prayer held in a secret mosque to the that are second to none.
breaking of the fast in a family home
during Ramadan.
Down near the Creek in Bur Dubai,
Majlis Gallery (+971 4 353 6233,
themajlisgallery.com) is also well worth
a visit. It’s Dubai’s oldest art gallery,
established over 25 years ago in a wind-
tower house in the Al Fahidi district.
Meanwhile, an interesting gallery
that aims to bridge the gap between
high-end pieces and mass-produced
prints can be found in The Dubai Mall.
LUMAS (+971 4 388 2540, lumas.com)
has original photographic and contem-
porary artworks starting at less than
Dhs400, as well as limited edition pieces
by big names such as Damien Hirst and
Patrick Demarchelier.
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,
the world’s longest purpose-built From lEFt to EIGht:

Ski Dubai; Wild Wadi
cycling track that loops around the Waterpark
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.
GEt on
trAck
Petrol heads can do more than just
drool at Dubai’s legion of supercars.
Slip behind the wheel of a single seater
F3 race car, McLaren, Audi TT or R8
supercar at Dubai Autodrome
(advance bookings via +971 4 303
4992, arabian-adventures.com). Track
experiences combine classroom and
behind-the-wheel training from a
professional racing driver, before
you’re let loose to do a few laps on your
own – guaranteed to get your blood
pumping fast.
The complex is also home to
Kartdrome which has indoor and
outdoor tracks that are suitable for
big kids and little ones aged 7 and up.
The 1.2km outdoor circuit features 17
corners, a tunnel and bridge, while the
500m indoor track allows up to ten
karters to race at any one time. Plus, the
karts are equipped with timers so you
can test your mettle against your mates.
bEyond ShoppInG
At thE dubAI mAll
The Dubai Mall has a host of activities adventures.com), a state-of-the-art off after dark. Fron June 1 you can play
to keep the whole tribe entertained. Airbus flight simulator. the Majlis for Dhs500, or the Faldo
Gamers of all ages will love SEGA from Dhs350 before 5pm and from
Republic (advanced booking via +971 SwInG Into Dhs375 after 5pm. Fees for 9 holes are
4 303 4888, arabian-adventures.com ActIon also available.
or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at Dubai has become a major golf Jumeirah Golf Estates (+971 4 818
all major malls +971 4 316 7506), a destination and boasts an impressive 2000, jumeirahgolfestates.com) has
huge indoor theme park with 15 rides collection of high-calibre courses. And two Greg Norman-designed
including a rollercoaster, and hundreds as the mercury rises, there are some Championship courses matched by
of high-tech games. Little visitors will great golf deals to be had at the various excellent club facilities. Inspired
love KidZania (advanced booking via clubs around town. by the great parkland courses of
+971 4 303 4888, arabian-adventures. Emirates Golf Club (+971 4 380 Europe and North America, the Earth
com or City Sightseeing Dubai kiosks 1234, dubaigolf.com) boasts two 18- course is home to the DP World Tour
at all major malls +971 4 316 7506), a hole par 72 Championship courses. Championship, the final leg of the
sprawling mini city that allows children The Majlis course has open horizons European Tour’s Race to Dubai.
to dabble in 80 different careers, from and stretches of scrubby sand along Meanwhile the undulating topography
pilot to police officer. And aviation with more traditional bunkers, while of the Fire course, marked by its red
enthusiasts aged 9 and over can fly the the Faldo has a wadi (valley) running sand bunkers, demands
world’s largest passenger plane at the through it, which is sure to challenge a strategic approach. From June 1
Emirates A380 Experience (advance first-timers. It's also Dubai's only fully you can play 18 holes on either Earth
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian- floodlit 18-hole course, so you can tee or Fire for Dhs355.
FEEl on top SEE A moVIE wIth four lavish Platinum Movie Suites
oF thE world A dIFFErEncE with just 36 seats. After sinking
Ascending the world’s tallest tower A trip to the cinema takes on a into your reclining leather chair and
is high on most visitors’ must-do lists, whole new dimension in Dubai. snuggling down with your pillow and
and At The Top, Burj Khalifa (advance VOX Cinemas (+971 600 599 905, blanket, press the call button and your
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian- voxcinemas.com) at Mall of the personal butler will appear with food
adventures.com) doesn’t disappoint. Emirates has 24 screens including a and drinks throughout the film. These
A high-speed elevator delivers you to multi-sensory 4DX theatre that adds swish suites can also be found at the
the observation deck on Level 124 - moving seats and effects like rain and 10-screen cinemas at City Walk in
452-metres above the ground - where lightning; the first laser IMAX in the Jumeriah and The Beach at JBR.
floor-to-ceiling glass offers 360-degree Middle East; and a colourful kids’ Something unique for kids cinema-
views. You can then walk up a spiral, cinema. You can even swap popcorn wise is The Dome Box (800 637 227,
glass-walled staircase to Level 125 for a gourmet duck burger at Vox thedomeboxdubai.ae) at BoxPark
where viewfinders provide a virtual Theatre by Rhodes, which combines on Al Wasl Road. It’s a dome-shaped
tour of the city from the perspective luxury seats and service with a menu theatre with a 360-degree screen
of a falcon. Premium ticket holders, devised by Michelin-starred chef Gary which plays short edutainment films
meanwhile, can also visit the Level Rhodes. that are themed around science,
148 observation deck - 555 metres up. A luxurious experience also awaits nature, and popular culture. Instead of
Open daily until 11pm, advance book- at Reel Cinemas (+971 4 449 1902, seats there are beanbags – and leaning
ing is recommended and your ticket reelcinemas.ae) at The Dubai Mall. posts for adults – and each movie lasts
allows you to linger as long as you like. The 22-screen multiplex includes for around 30 minutes.
clokwISE From rIGht:

Aquaventure; Dubai
Aquarium & Underwater
Zoo; At The Top; Dubai
Fountain
SEE AmAzInG chIll out

SEAlIFE At A SpA
Some of Dubai’s best family-friendly Feeling frazzled after all that fun?
attractions can be found under the sea. Dubai has some of the world’s most
Home to over 65,000 marine animals, luxurious spas that are renowned for
The Lost Chambers Aquarium their ultra-indulgent treatments.
(advanced booking via +971 4 303 One of the very best is Amara Spa
4888, arabian-adventures.com or City (+ 971 4 602 1234, dubai.park.hyatt.
Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major com) at the beautiful Park Hyatt
malls +971 4 316 7506) at Atlantis, Dubai, which stands aside the city's
The Palm is sure to mesmerise young historic creek. This magical setting
and old. There are over 20 exhibits features a 25m-pool and eight luxury
with creatures from all over the world. suites replete with private gardens and
Visitors can also book a behind-the- tropical rain showers, three of which
scenes tour or swim, snorkel or dive are designed for couples. If it's just the
with sharks. two of you in town, why not embark
Meanwhile, The Dubai Mall is home on Amara's Couple's Journey? Spread
to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater over a leisurely 180 minutes, you'll be
Zoo (advanced booking via +971 4 303 pampered to the point of sheer bliss via
4888, arabian-adventures.com or City a body scrub, body wrap, massage and
Sightseeing Dubai kiosks at all major facial. It's priced at Dhs3,000 per
malls +971 4 316 7506), one of the happy couple.
largest suspended aquariums on the Over at the world's tallest hotel, JW
planet. Marvel at over 140 species of Marriott Marquis (+971 4 414 0000,
sea life, including more than 300 sharks jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com), you'll
and rays, or rent some scuba gear and find the sublime Saray Spa, where
sidle up alongside the inhabitants of customised treatments for two are
this 10-million-litre tank. No diving also offered. The Saray Spa Ultimate
experience is required. At the zoo part VIP Journey is 3 hours of serenity, into
of this aquatic attraction you’ll get to which you're eased with a bath of your
see the likes of penguins, otters, giant choice (try the milk option). You'll
spider crabs and King Croc, who weighs then be treated to an aromatherapy
in at 750kg. The Animal Encounter massage, signature facial, administered
Experiences, meanwhile, provide on side-by-side treatment tables in the
behind-the-scenes access to otters, rays wonderful VIP Suite. This journey to
or saltwater crocodiles. The meet-and remember costs Dhs2,380.
greet experiences take place every Somewhere else that's somewhat of
hour, daily, from 11am to 10pm. a haven amidst the hustle and bustle
And if you’ve always dreamed of of the big city is the Orchid Palace
swimming with dolphins, you can do Wellness Spa (+971 4 381 8887, gloria-
exactly that at Dolphin Bay (advance hotels.com) in Yassat Gloria Hotel &
bookings via +971 4 303 4992, arabian- Apartments. This Thai spa boasts a
adventures.com), the 4.5-hectare mammoth 17 ‘his and hers’ treatment
dolphin conservation centre at rooms (with four allocated for couples)
Atlantis, The Palm. Home to a family as well as a hammam, and steam/sauna
of friendly Indo-Pacific bottlenose facilities: basically, all you need for a
dolphins, you can take your pick from comprehensive, aromatically-infused
five different dolphin experiences. 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, London-
esque streetscapes – complete with
red phone boxes – and the city's first
street art project called Dubai Walls
(dubaiwalls.com). With plenty of
family-friendly indoor attractions, it's
ideal for summer sightseeing too.
Suitable for babies to older kids,
Caboodle Pamper & Play (+971 4 344
4570, caboodle.ae) is a fabulous play
centre full of interactive toys, climbing
frames and soft play areas. There's a
whole host of activities and classes,
including music, dance, cooking and
crafts, along with a café and salon for
parents and their tots. Also good for
little ones, Mattel Play! Town (+971 4
317 3999, playtowndubai.com) offers
educational play and live shows based
around five well-known characters,
including Barney, Angelina Ballerina
and Fireman Sam.
rIGht: XDubai
ExpErIEncE Skatepark
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 can organise deep sea fishing tours, cafés, changing facilities and showers, a
Mall, has public skating sessions that luxury yacht and catamaran charters, jogging track, beach tennis, watersports
are suitable for beginner and immediate and flashy speedboat cruises all around and the XDubai Skatepark, but no
skaters, as well as snowfall sessions Palm Jumeirah. sunbed or brolly rental.
with a live DJ every Tuesday at 6pm Remember that as this month is
and 8pm. Penguin Pal skating aids are hIt thE Ramadan you shouldn't drink (water
available for little ones measuring a bEAch ot otherwise) while in public during
minimum of 100cm tall, while there In our considered opinoin you would daylight hours – that includes when
are Snowmen for adults and children have to be brave, mad, or both to you're hot and bothered on the beach.
over 12 years who are unsteady on their want to hit the beach this month,
skates. One-on-one and semi-private so scorching hot is the temperature. All thE Fun oF
lessons can also be arranged. However, if you’re staying in a hotel thE FountAInS
without its own private beach, but a At the foot of Burj Khalifa is a 30-acre
tAkE to thE dose of sea and sand is high on your lake, in which stands the world’s
hIGh SEAS holiday wishlist, head down to one largest dancing fountain. Dubai
Sailing and yachting are popular of Dubai’s beautiful public beaches. Fountain has multiple jets spread
pastimes in the emirate and cruising Backed by a low-rise collection of across the lake, which shoot water
past Atlantis, The Palm towards restaurants, cafés and boutiques, and 500ft into the air – about the height of
the iconic Burj Al Arab at sunset is featuring a winding walkway dotted a 50-storey building – while ‘dancing’
one of the most memorable ways to with innovative food stalls, The Beach to the music. Shows are daily at 1pm
experience Dubai. Deep sea fishing is at JBR (800 637 227, thebeach.ae) is and 1.30pm (1.30pm and 2pm on
another big draw, with species such one of the most popular spots along Fridays) and every 30 minutes from
as king mackerel and barracuda the Arabian Gulf. There are well-kept 6pm-11pm. Bag a table on the terrace
tempting anglers. changing facilities with showers, all of a lake-side restaurant (see ‘Where
First Yacht (advance bookings via manner of activities to enjoy (from to Eat’), watch for free from the
+971 4 303 4992, arabian-adventures. beach football to early morning yoga), Waterfront Promenade, just outside
com) specialises in tailor-made and you can rent a sunbed with an the entrance to The Dubai Mall, or
luxury yacht and catamaran charters umbrella and towel for Dhs110 per day. see it in style aboard one of the abras
and private fishing trips, as well Another firm favourite is the stretch (traditional Arabic boats) which sail
as powerboat rides and romantic of sand running the length of Umm as close to the action as possible.
dinner cruises for two. Sea Hunters Suqeim known as Kite Beach, thanks Tickets cost Dhs65 per person and can
(advance bookings via +971 4 303 to its popularity with kite-surfers (you be purchased from a counter on the
4992, arabian-adventures.com) is can sign up for lessons too). It boasts Waterfront Promenade or from At The
another recommended operator that a promenade with a handful of cool Top, Burj Khalifa.
Where To Go 72 DXB City Expert
Chapter SIX
WHERE
go
TO
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 par-
ties to end the season in style...
end-of-SeaSon partIeS It has welcomed big names like Paul from early afternoon around blue-tiled
under the StarS Van Dyk and Mark Ronson, alongside pools surrounded by white daybeds
Since launching four years ago, Blue more alternative stars like Mr Scruff, to and cabanas with billowing drapes.
Marlin Ibiza UAE (taxi: Golden Tulip play under the stars. While their final The resident DJs will say their summer
Al Jazira Hotels & Resort, Ghantoot, Friday festival of the season took place goodbyes on June 3 and 4, while
+971 51 133 3400) has set the last month, their popular Thursday the final Amazing Sunday session,
benchmark high for house music parties House Party will also run on Friday beginning early afternoon and lasting
in the country. Thousands of glamazons nights from 8pm to 11pm, although through sunset, will take place on
make the 30-minute journey towards entertainment will be in keeping with June 5.
Abu Dhabi to this Balearic beach party. the UAE laws during Ramadan, so 360° (taxi: Jumeirah Beach Hotel,
The line-ups are always cutting edge the sound will be lowered. The chilled +971 4 406 8999) is one of the longest-
and big on the house market: think out event will also move into the new running clubs in the city, and boasts
Ibiza icons like Jamie Jones, Dixon and Beach House, an air-conditioned panoramic views across the city from
Marco Carola. On June 3, they’ll be ‘bachelor pad’-style abode at the foot its perch in the middle of the Arabian
ending the season with British techno of the glass-fronted infinity pool with Gulf. The two floor venue hosts
legend Richy Ahmed and rising Scottish a photo booth, giant Connect 4, air resident DJs every Friday for your
star Jasper James, along with Carlo hockey and dart board. deep house kicks, while rotating
Andrea Raggi, aka Cirillo, who has Nikki Beach (taxi: Pearl Jumeirah, promoters on Thursdays bring in
championed the Italian techno sound +971 4 376 6162) is the city’s newest soulful house, UK bass and dance
for more than 30 years. beach club and the 13th of its kind to classics. The summer farewell kicks
Part beach club, part open-air club and open worldwide. Like its glamorous off at 4pm on Friday June 3 and lasts
packed every weekend, Zero global counterparts in Miami and until the small hours. The drinks are
Gravity (taxi: Sky Dive Dubai, +971 4 Marbella, the Dubai outpost attracts expensive, but well worth it for the
399 0009) is the city’s current hot spot. a beautiful crowd who come to party views and music.
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 gen-
erally 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.
preVIouS paGe: host cameos from established and

Zero Gravity
left to rIGht: up-and-coming rappers (including O.T.
Movida; The Vault 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 fur-
niture, 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.
beSt
ladIeS' nIGhtS
Like Friday brunch, ‘ladies’ night’ is
somewhat of a Dubai institution. Usu-
ally staged on Tuesday nights, but now
increasingly popping up at least some-
where throughout the week, the nights
are so-named because ladies get to
end of SeaSon course, the stunning view back into the drink for free, in some places to a limit-
partIeS IndoorS city. See out the season on June 4 with less degree. Things obviously quieten
A cavernous venue on the 41st floor the best hip-hop and R’n’B tunes from down over Ramadan, although some
of Media One Hotel, Level 41 (taxi: resident DJ masterminds, Dany Neville venues do still host low-key gatherings
Media One Hotel, +971 4 427 1000) and Devon Kosoko, and complimentary for ladies after sunset.
hosts pop-up club nights and live music. drinks for ladies. Located on the 71st floor of the
From techno to drum and bass and hip Another imported chain, Provoca- world’s tallest hotel, Vault (+971 50
hop to house, the back-to-basics rave teur (taxi: The Four Seasons Dubai, 738 1388, jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.
cave hosts the city’s cooler promot- + 971 55 211 8222) began life in com) is a two-level lounge bar with a
ers – meaning a clued-up crowd who New York as a bottle-service club futuristic feel, thanks to its sleek décor
aren’t afraid to cut loose on the dance that catered to high-end house music and floor-to-ceiling windows showcas-
floor. Recently awarded the city’s ‘Best lovers. Fittingly, the Dubai branch has ing Dubai’s Blade Runner-esque sky-
House/Techno Night’ gong, the final welcomed 4/4 heavyweights like Seth line. The ladies’ night takes place every
Plus Minus session takes place June 3. Troxler and White Island favourite Tuesday from sunset – midnight, with
With a panoramic view of Dubai’s Solomon during its first season. They’ll three complimentary drinks for ladies
skyline, White Dubai (taxi: The Mey- be waving goodbye to the season on made by the expert mixologists.
dan, +971 50 443 0933) is the sister June 3 with dirty deep house anthems Down at JBR, Zero Gravity (taxi:
lounge and club to the Beirut original. from Spanish underground master, Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, +971
And like its Lebanese sibling, it’s high Dosem. Since its refurbishment in 4 399 0009) hosts a ladies-only Lost
on the glam factor, with a good-looking summer 2015, Movida (taxi: Radis- Angels night, every Tuesday from 8pm,
crowd arriving around midnight every son Royal Hotel, +971 55 1744 449) overlooking the glass-fronted infinity
Thursday, Friday and Saturday for the has reclaimed its position as one of the pool and pristine private beach. For
hip hop and EDM soundtrack. And of city’s regular hot spots. They frequently Dhs100, girls can enjoy free-flowing
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 York-
vibe (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), Noor Bank metro station. It houses 21 offers an impressive list of Japanese
particularly in its faux garden which screens, so you'll only have yourself whiskeys, which are now considered to
boasts a giant screen – a whole four to blame if you miss any of the action. be some of the best in the world.
metres, to be precise. Smaller screens In DIFC, Indie (taxi: Gate Village,
inside will also sceen the match. Qube for SomethInG DIFC, +971 55 455 6106) is an
Sports Bar (taxi: The Meydan Hotel, dIfferent eclectic, but nevertheless chic, concept
+971 4 381 3780), so named because of We’re not sure why it hasn’t been imported from the region’s biggest
its unique draw – a cube screen bearing done before, but Stereo Arcade (taxi: party town, Beirut. With a mix of
four huge surfaces to provide fans with Double Tree by Hilton, +971 52 618 contemporary and vintage décor and
a fine view no matter where they’re 2424) combines music and a stereo three different bars, the relaxed space
sitting – makes for a great venue and arcade (with over 50,000 games from does a wide selection of tapas too. It’s
serves decent food to boot. the ‘80s and ‘90s) as well as a slushy open daily from 5pm–2am, with alcohol
Two other venues which will be machine, hot dog stand and more. It’s served once the sun goes down.
packed to the rafters come kick off time an unpretentious place and plenty of With Burj Khalifa basically in
are McGettigans (taxi: Bonnington fun, especially for those who grew up in its back garden, Treehouse (taxi:
Hotel, + 971 4 378 0800) and The Irish a pre-Xbox era. Taj Dubai, +971 4 438 3100) has
Village (taxi: Century Village, +971 4 For something with a real twist, unbeatable views from its air-
282 4752). push the bookcase in the lobby of the conditioned tent pitched on the leafy,
New to town (it opened June 1) is Dusit Thani hotel. It will open to reveal third-floor terrace during Ramadan.
O’Learys (timehotels.ae). A Boston- a hidden door, on which you’ll knock Wooden floors and comfy sofas create
themed sports bar (which doesn't to gain entry to the Nippon Bottle an intimate lounge-bar feel and there’s
serve alcohol at any time), you'll find Company (taxi: Dusit Thani, +971 4 shisha, board games and an à la carte
it on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite 357 0779), a Japanese speakeasy. It menu of light bites.
#holiday 76 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.
1. Photo credit: @abdulaziz_photo 4. Photo credit: @andrewtapper_travel 7. Photo credit: @x5ive2014

A spectacular sunset view of Dubai's Explore the old souks during a tour A stunning shot of Burj Khalifa from
famous cityscape. with Arabian Adventures. The Palace Downtown Dubai.
2. Photo credit: @hussain_alshaba 5. Photo credit: @happytummytravels 8. Photo credit: @visitdubai.ar
Street artists such as Nick Walker have Be sure to sample some of Bateel's Say hello to some feathered friends at
left their creative mark in City Walk. gourmet dates this Ramadan. Ski Dubai.
3. Photo credit: @saaggo 6. Photo credit: @sebastian_t1000 9. Photo credit: @burjalarab
The iconic Atlantis, The Palm hotel At The Top, Burj Khalifa offers an un- Snapping a photo of Burj Al Arab is
captured at dusk. beatable view of the Dubai Fountain. high on most must-do lists.
̾
A reflection of true
Ramadan hospitality.
ƪǡ
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AL FANOUS LOUNGE AT DUBAI BALLROOM
Iftar, AED 195 per person, from sunset to 8.30pm
Sohour, à la carte menu, from 9pm to 3am
RANG MAHAL BY ATUL KOCHHAR
Unique Indian Iftar, AED 325 per person, from sunset to 8pm
KITCHEN6, INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT
Iftar, AED 195 per person, from sunset to 8.30pm
CORPORATE IFTARS
Available upon request for exclusive hire and group inquiries.
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June 2016

The insider's guide

Savour the flavours of the Holy Month

r Experience Arabian hospitality at Al Hadheerah’s

The Meydan Hotel | +971 4 381 3111

Cover Image : John ThaTcher

Produced for dnata Travel by HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC.

Whether you’re arriving, departing or transferring,

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