what's on | july 2011

WIN WIN WIN!A luxury break in Tanzania (flights included), a BlackBerry PlayBook and drinks at Hopfest

PLUS!The best of the UAE online, ice creams tested, Catboy talks Twitter and the top ten of everything!

ALSO INSIDE:25 things to do this summer, our verdict on The Ivy and Dubai’s top pool halls

MADE IN

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July 2011 Issue 399

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JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 3

ContentsFeatures15 Made in DubaiForget the big international brands and chain stores, and enjoy our celebration of the best shops, businesses, restaurants and cultural delights born right here in the UAE

20Your summer sortedWhether you’re a foodie, a luxury lover, a culture vulture, a sports fan or a parent looking to keep your little darlings busy this summer, we have an activity for you

25 Hopping madAll you need to know to have a good time at the seventh annual Hop Fest at The Irish Village

26 UAE onlineTurn on your computer, turn up the air conditioning and delve into our round-up of the best local apps, regional online stores and blogs in the UAE

29 Dubai’s best pool hallsWhat better time than summer to chalk up your cue, head down to your local pool hall and shoot a few frames with your pals

p15

p29

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4 WHAT’S ON JULY 2011

8 SalaamJuly in a handful of pages, packed with what’s hot and what’s not, Geordie Bird visits Republique at The Address Dubai Mall, a chef’s guide to the UAE, plus enough stats, facts and news to blow your tiny minds

13 Win, win, win The first of two pages populated with lots of lovely competitions. For more, turn to page 79

30 FilmAll the latest movies hitting screens in the UAE, including the final instalment in the Harry Potter series, Nicole Kidman in Rabbit Hole, Gossip Girl’s Leighton Meester on holiday in Monte Carlo and Robert Redford’s The Conspirator – plus Honey 2, 5 Days Of August and Conviction

33 Eating outWe put the UAE’s best ice creams to the test, present you with our verdict on global big boys The Ivy and Royal China, enjoy a spot of lunch at Emirates Golf Club’s M’s and sample

The round up

p30 p43

p59

p33

two new brunches. Plus afternoon teas, our new monthly Twitter recipe and, of course, the latest opinion from The Critic

43 ArtsSinging along to summer musicals, purchasing affordable art at Third Line, buying advice from The Insider and five exhibitions you simply must see

51 ShoppingUpdate your wardrobe with swaps from My Ex Wardrobe, purchase those summer essentials and our style guru, Sophia, quells your sartorial woes. Plus this month’s new openings

59 Mind & bodyTurkish and Brazilian treatments, J-Lo’s eyebrows, electrotherapy, his ‘n’ hers at The Address Dubai Marina and the latest spa deals

65 Sport & outdoorWe learn to swim, test the latest running shoes and bring you Mr Fitness’ answers to your health and fitness queries

70 MusicProg rockers EYE (that’s e-why-e) are our band of the month, plus three live music nights

72 Club diaryThe best of the UAE's nightlife

75 TravelA concise guide to the Frankfurt Book Fair, summer travel deals and Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa GM, Arne Silvis, lets slip his travel secrets

81Hot list The definitive monthly guide to the ten best bars, restaurants, brunches and spas in Dubai

98 Backchat The monthly missive from Dubai 92’s Catboy

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WHATS ON-ENG-20.6X27.pdf 1 6/23/11 10:50 AM


Editor-in-Chief Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

Group Editor & Managing Partner lan Fairservice

Group Senior EditorGina Johnson | [email protected]

Senior EditorMark Evans | [email protected]

Deputy EditorHelen Spearman | [email protected]

Features & Food EditorGareth Rees | [email protected]

Features Editor Abu DhabiAdam Workman | [email protected]

Sta� WriterMatt Priest | [email protected]

Chief Sub Editor Iain Smith | [email protected]

Senior Designer Sheila Cariño-Deocareza | [email protected]

Editorial Co-ordinatorConcessaa D’souza | [email protected]

Picture Researcher – GulfpicsWayne Fernandez | [email protected]

ContributorsVictor Besa, James Brennan, Louise Browne,

Stef Burgon, Vikram Gawde, James Houghton, Catherine Jarvie, Charles Pocock, Mark

Powell, Farooq Salik, Simon Smedley, Sophia Serin, Paul Sterry

General Manager Production and Circulation

S Sasidharan | [email protected] Production Manager

Sunil Kumar | [email protected] Manager

Sudhakar Chandran | [email protected] Supervisor

Murali Krishnan | [email protected]

General Manager – Group SalesAnthony Milne | [email protected]

Group Advertisement ManagerDale Isaac | [email protected]

Advertisement ManagerVarsha Bhatia | [email protected]

General Manager, Abu DhabiJoe Marrit | [email protected]

Senior Advertisement Manager, Abu DhabiDarryl Wiley | [email protected]

Senior Sales Executive, Abu DhabiHamdan Bawazir | [email protected]

Editor’s note

This month we’ve been...

Testing ice creams, p35

Exploring independent shops, p15

You don’t need me to tell you that, in some quarters, Dubai can take a bit of a bashing. Type the word ‘Dubai’ in Google, and it won’t be long before someone or other’s written assassination of the emirate pops up, usually when they’re on a flying visit (one writer managed it from no more than a four-hour trip aboard the Big Bus Tour), and usually taking the same tact – ‘Dubai is so not New York. Dubai is so not London.’ And while, quite clearly, we’re not New York or London, and, yes, I’m sure there are lots of things that you, me and everyone could point out that need changing, there are positives, too, and plenty of them. (I read AA Gill’s words of “It’s a holiday resort with the worst climate in the world” in Vanity Fair while I was lying at the pool thinking he’d obviously never made it to my hometown of Sunderland, where it’s mostly either cold or colder). As a magazine, What’s On exists to point out just a few of those positives, and to help you have a good time. Living in Dubai is fun, we enjoy it, and while we appreciate it’s not for everyone, there are plenty of us here that do rather like it. This issue we celebrate some of Dubai’s own; the shops, restaurants, art spaces and more, all created and run in Dubai, by Dubai-based people. Dubai people like you, and me, who still call Dubai, despite its faults, home.

Enjoy the issue.

Annual Subscription GCC Dhs120 other countries US$70 (including Airmail charges)

Head O�ce: PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAETel: +971 4 282 4060, Fax: +971 4 282 4436,

E-mail: [email protected]

Dubai Media City: Office 508, 5th Floor, Building 8, Dubai, UAE,

Tel: +971 4 390 3550, Fax: +971 4 390 4845

Abu Dhabi: PO Box 43072, UAE,Tel: +971 2 677 2005, Fax: +971 2 677 0124,


London: Acre House, 11/15 William Road,London NW1 3ER, UK,


Printed by Emirates Printing Press, Dubai

Learning to swim, p66

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SALAAM

Salaam!

What’s not

FIFA is investigating ‘sporting irregularities’ during a match held in the UAE earlier this year between Kuwait and Jordan.

We're o�cially part of the Twitterati. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai for exclusive updates on nightlife, restaurants and more around the UAE. Tweet yourself.

Salaam!Salaam!We're o�cially part of the Twitterati. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai for exclusive updates on nightlife, restaurants and more around the

Salaam!UAE. Tweet yourself.

Salaam!

MOVIES AND MUNCHIES NIGHTEvery Wednesday in July Desert Palm will be screening two �lms in their outdoor pool. Desert Palm, Al Awir Road, Dubai, Wed from 7pm, Dhs30. Tel: (04) 3238888. www.desertpalm.ae

What’s hot

The Telecommunication Regulatory Authority have decided to cut phone roaming charges within the GCC region by 30 per cent as of this month.

The motor sport governing body, the FIA, has rejected Abu Dhabi’s proposal to host a race during the 2012 World Rally Championship season.

E�ects of the recession rumble on as the purse strings for the proposed Dubailand are being tightened, according to analysts BMI.

NEW HIGHWAY

PRICE FREEZE

CHEAP ROAMING

NO RALLY

CASH STRAPPED

FOUL PLAY

The new 45km long Dubai-Fujairah highway will open by the end of this month.

The Economy Ministry has frozen the price of food until the end of the year, in order to combat the rising global cost of food. Time to go wild in the aisles.

THIS MONTH WE'RE GOING TO...

July's news, knowledge and rumours

Guess list Fact: summer is hot. But not as hot as these rumours

55%

10%

35% UFC A loose-tongued insider in the world of sports promotion let slip to us that we’re in for yet more �ghting mayhem, as the Ultimate Fighting circus lines up another visit to the UAE’s shores.

SNOW PATROLOK, so we've mentioned the Irish indie rockers before. But it's a rumour that just won't go away. We hear the lads will, �nally, hit a stage near you later this year. And this time, we think it just might happen.

ROLLING STONESNo longer the athletes they once were, maybe, but according to our well-informed snitches, Mick and the boys will be strutting their stu� on stage at the Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix.

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Salaam!

Find us atwww.facebook.com/WhatsOnDubai

SWAMP JUICEA wonderfully creative one-man, lo-� shadow puppet show. And it's free. Jul 23 to 31, Theatre Space, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4361020

BASTILLE DAY WEEKENDCelebrate (and eat) your way through all the good things that France has given the world.Jul 13 to 16, Sofitel Hotel, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4484870. www.sofitel.com

What does it look like?This glitzy club is compact and spread over two �oors, but manages to �t in the biggest disco ball I’ve ever seen in Dubai. It also has two projectors, which occasionally come to life. While I was there Axl Rose showed up on screen. Who goes there?A pretty trendy 20 to 30 something crowd. Put it this way, I didn't bump into anyone I might see at Rock Bottoms. Drink recommendations?There are loads of shots to choose from to keep the party going. When should you go?Thursdays and Fridays are the obvious nights with 90s tunes on the DJ's set list, but I heard a whisper that the club is planning something a bit di�erent once a month. Watch this space.Dress code?You wanna look cool but not ‘dressed up’ in this club. Jeans and heels for the ladies. How’s the service?There’s an army of sta� behind the bar, so you won’t be left waiting. What’s the taxi situation?It’s attached to The Dubai Mall so there are taxis everywhere. GB VERDICT: Republique plays the best music from the 1990’s. I didn't hear a bad tune all night. Add to that it’s in Downtown so I can stroll home – it’s like they practically built the place just for me. I don't have a bad word to say about it.Republique, The Address Dubai Mall, Downtown, Dubai. Tel: (050) 4880876

GIRL ABOUT TOWNDubai 92’s Geordie Bird gives us the heads up from the UAE bar scene

to �t in the biggest disco ball

THIS MONTH:REPUBLIQUE

LOCAL KNOWLEDGEFranck Detrait, head chef, Traiteur, Park Hyatt Dubai

ProduceI always try to go to local markets, the �sh market and the fruit and vegetable market and, even though I’m usually busy with the Traiteur brunch, I managed to check out the farmers' market in Souk Al Bahar before it closed for summer.

Knives Most of my cooking equipment is from Zwilling JA Henckels on the Boulevard Malesherbes in Paris. But most of my knives are from Japan. The brand is Global [supplied by Yoshikin in Japan] and I have them tailor-made with my own design. They are extremely light, solid and very long lasting.Zwilling JA Henckels, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4340725. www.zwilling.com Yoshikin, Japan. www.yoshikin.co.jp

Eating outThe Terrace. Not because I work at Park Hyatt Dubai, but because I have a love of seafood. The Terrace is one of the best places in Dubai for a fresh seafood platter. The Terrace, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira Dubai. Tel: (04) 3172222. www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

Takeaway I sometimes like to get a home delivery of freshly made maki and sushi from a really small Japanese restaurant here in Dubai called Agemono. Agemono, International City, Dubai. Tel: (050) 8876784

CookbooksI read anything on the shelves that catches my eye. I prefer the books of Michelin star chefs, though, because they take food to the next level – it becomes art. My favourite cookbook is by Alain Ducasse, Grand Livre de Cuisine. Available from Amazon.com

July's news, knowledge and rumours



SALAAM

Green light

A whole new worldThe �rst commercial development in The World is set to open later this year – not the actual world, mind (that happened centuries ago), but that famous group of islands o� the Dubai coast. Let’s have a nosey at the stats

BLOOD SIMPLEOK, so we’re not fans of needles, but there is no cause worthier than giving blood – it truly is a sel�ess act that can lead to saving someone's life.

This month, there will be a mobile blood donation clinic set up in Dubai outside The One on Beach Road, where you can pop along and give blood.

Donated blood is used to help cancer patients, people with pregnancy complications, sick children and burn victims – to name just a few.

However, for obvious health reasons not anyone can donate their blood. To ensure that you are eligible to donate, call the number below prior to your visit, answer a few simple questions and book a time to go. The whole process won't take longer than 15 minutes.

The sta� there are nice and friendly, and we promise it won’t hurt, you big softy. Your blood could make a real di�erence.

Jul 25, The One, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, 9am to 3pm. Tel: (04) 3456687

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s SonicStar – a US$18 million (Dhs66 million) airplane set to cut the journey time from Dubai to New York to just two hours and 20 minutes. Supersonic jet makers, Hyper Mach, announced plans to build the ten to 20-seater aircraft, which will be able to cruise at 4,287kmph at an altitude of 60,000ft, at the recent Paris Air Show. Hyper Mach claims that the SonicStar jet will �y at twice the speed of the now defunct Concorde – but, sadly, you will have to wait until 2021 to hop on board.

The projected annual membership fee to join the

beach club

Based on Lebanon Island, The World Island Beach Club will be the first commercial

property to open

IN THE NEWS

The percentage of the 300 man-made islands that have

been bought1

Dhs40,000

80ftThe size of the yachts that the pontoon can

accommodate

Dhs60mThe amount spent on buying and

developing the beach club

70

“The next stop is Etisalat” – don’t recognise that station? Well, you will soon, as the RTA has (at long last) announced the opening of the Green Metro line. Study the map. Learn the stations. There will be a quiz later*.

JEBEL ALI

ENERGY

NAKHEEL HARBOUR & TOWER

JUMERIA LAKE TOWERS

DUBAI MARINA

NAKHEEL

DUBAI INTERNET CITY

AL SUFOOH

AL BARSHA

BURJ AL ARAB

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

FIRST GULF BANK

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BUSINESS BAY

AL KARAMA

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DEIRA CITY CENTRE

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AIRPORT TERMINAL 3

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DUBAI MALL/BURJ KHALIFA

FINANCIAL CENTRE

EMIRATES TOWERS

TRADE CENTREAL JA

FILIYA CREEK

IBN BATTUTA

AIRPORT FREE ZONE

AL QUSAIS

ETISALAT

AL NAHDA

STADIU

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ABU HAIL

ABU

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SUPERSONIC FLIGHT

* There won't be a quiz. We made that up.


Families travelling in style With the ‘Families Travelling in Style’ Dubai offer, book your first room this summer for two adults and receive:

One&Only Royal Mirage from AED950++

One&Only The Palm from AED1,450++

oneandonlyresorts.com

Rates valid for GCC and Middle East residents only. Maximum two adults only in the first room. A maximum of two children up to 16 years old, plus one teenager up to 18 years old are permitted in the second room. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Visit oneandonlyresorts.com for full details. One&Only Resorts, Dubai reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time without notice.

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More than one million expected visitors

32 global cuisines to be featured

Attractions for every age group

Five days of shopping,dining and entertainment

Unique adventure sports for thefirst time

in the UAE

31 Aug - 4 Sept* 2011Meydan, Dubai

BE PART OFA COLOURFUL

JOURNEY IN DUBAI.

GuinnessWorld Record

Attempt at VenueThe largest

photographic collageof human faces on

a mosaic surface

Presenting Shoppiesta – an annual exhibition that’s a unique celebration.The Dubai event calendar is all set to get even more exciting! Shoppiesta, thefive-day lifestyle extravaganza, is coming soon to enthral everyone with great bargains, adventure sports, exclusive concerts and lots more. *T

enta

tive

date

s

www.shoppiesta.com

Follow us on:

facebook.com/ShoppiestaUAE

twitter.com/shoppiesta

For exhibitor and sponsorship enquiries, contact Rizza Tan: +971 4 3588 911 or [email protected]

Official logistics partner:

Win with What’s On


TO ENTER

THIS COMPETITION,

SIMPLY E-MAIL

[email protected]

WITH YOUR ANSWER,

AND 'TANZANIA' IN THE

SUBJECT LINE

WIN! A TRIP FOR TWO TO TANZANIA, INCLUDING FLIGHTSWhat’s On has teamed up with Serena Hotels & Resorts, Africa and Asia’s leading hotel group, to o�er one lucky reader and a friend a three-night package in one of Tanzania’s most luxurious safari destinations, including return �ights to Dar-Es-Salam on Kenya Airways.

If you’ve always dreamed of losing yourself in a world of untamed beauty, complete with luxurious accommodation, high-adventure game drives and boating safaris, then your wishes could come true.

The winners will enjoy three nights in one of Tanzania’s most sought-after safari destinations: the luxury Mivumo River Lodge, a lavish retreat standing high on the banks of the shimmering Ru�ji River with views down to the plunging torrents of Stiegler's Gorge. The Mivumo River Lodge o�ers 12 river-facing rooms, each of which is housed in a timbered chalet with private viewing deck, sun loungers, plunge pool and a rain shower. The prize also includes full board, with meals in the dining room which overlooks the riverbanks where hippos, crocodiles and elephants congregate.

The resort is close to the spectacular Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; home to one third of Tanzania’s wildlife, it has the largest concentrations of elephants in the world. This is the dream destination for nature lovers, with tours in the custom built open sided safari vehicles and a boat cruise on the Ru�ji River on o�er.

For your chance to win this amazing trip, simply answer this question...Which of the following animals is not in the ‘big five’?a) Elephantb) Rhinoc) Camel

13 CompsTanzania.indd 13 6/28/11 9:31:18 AM


Made in DubaiMade in DubaiWe unearth and celebrate the best UAE-born stores, restaurants and cultural gems in Dubai

If you have, are starting or are planning on launching a shop, restaurant or cultural enterprise in Dubai, we would really like to hear about it. E-mail: [email protected]

How many times have you heard somebody complain about the lack of original shops, restaurants or cultural institutions in Dubai? We hear this familiar refrain on an almost weekly basis, “I hate malls, I ate in that restaurant when I was in London, and there’s just no culture here in the UAE – not like Europe.” Our answer? What balderdash. OK, so Dubai is not Paris or London, but those ancient capitals have a good few centuries on the young emirate we are proud to call home. And on the following pages you will see that there is an abundance of distinctive stores created and run by entrepreneurs living right

here in the UAE, retailing unique products that you would never be able to �nd in a mall or, indeed, anywhere else in the world.

�e independent restaurant scene in Dubai, meanwhile, is �ourishing with local restaurateurs o�ering just about every cuisine you could wish for. And from the Al Quoz gallery quarter, which grows seemingly by the day, to the numerous cultural organisations popping up around town Dubai is certainly, indubitably, not lacking culture. Made In Dubai is a tag to be proud of, something to celebrate. And that is exactly what we have done here…

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MADE IN DUBAI

BambahThis vintage boutique is a treasure box of fashion from the 1930s to the 1980s, sourced from all over the world by 25-year-old owner Maha Abdul Rasheed. You’ll find pieces from the likes of Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin and Nina Ricci, with vintage suits, LBDs and accessories on racks and in old-fashioned suitcases just waiting to be incorporated into your wardrobe.142 Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (050) 6741754. www.bambah.com

Reem’s ClosetA haven for cash-strapped label lovers, Reem’s Closet is tucked away in the somewhat un-glam Mazaya Centre. But don’t be put o�, Reem Mohammed and her team has one of the best collections of ‘pre-owned’ (that’s second-hand to the rest of us) designer goods from Chanel, Dior, �ierry Mugler and more, all of which have been checked for authenticity. Mazaya Centre, Dubai, 10am to 9.45pm. Tel: (04) 3439553

KitschA pioneer in Dubai’s cupcake world, Kitsch is the home-grown brainchild of Dalia Dogmoch and Racil Chalhoub, who have added inches to our waistline since launching two years ago. And it was worth every kilo. Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 3956963. www.kitschconcept.com

ZooThe sibling store to Bambah, Zoo is all modern spaces and quirky gifts. There’s also designer clothing, homewares and the kind of knick-knacks that add a little bit of cool to your life. In short, it’s the kind of shop you go into for a present and spend twice as much on yourself.142 Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3495585. www.zoofashions.com

O De Rose Fused together by three creative cousins from di�erent backgrounds with a shared passion for fashion, interiors and art, O de Rose is a stunning boutique set in a converted villa. �e garden is strewn with fairy lights and cushions, the products are enchantingly embellished and there’s always a warm welcome (sometimes you’ll get a cup of tea, too). Great for injecting some o�eat charm into your home. Al Wasl Rd, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 7pm. Tel: (04) 3487990. www.o-derose.com

House Of ProseA store run by book lovers, for book lovers, this wordy wonderland has a wide selection of second-hand English-language tomes, and you can even return your purchase and receive half your money back. A fantastic shop with a winning attitude. Jumeirah Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9am to 8pm, Fri 5.30pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 3449021

Sugar Daddy’sAs the bakers at Sugar Daddy’s say “stressed is desserts spelled backwards” – we couldn’t have said it better. Innovative �avours, loads of outlets and enough sugar to send us into a well-earned diabetic coma. Various branches including Village Mall, Beach Road, Dubai, Saturday to Thursday 9am to 10pm, Friday 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3448204. www.sugardaddysbakery.com

Deans Fujiya SupermarketWith freezers full of seaweed and shelves heaving with steamers, Deans is favourite with Dubai chefs. �e tiny Japanese supermarket sells imported ingredients, utensils and dishes, so whether you’re an aspiring sushi master or just want some unusual side plates, it’s well worth seeking out.Near Lamcy Plaza, Oud Metha, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 8.30pm, Fri 5pm to 8.30pm. Tel: (04) 3370503

S*uceA leading light on the local fashion scene, S*uce is a contemporary boutique with a mixture of brands such as Karta, Isabella Cappeto, Alldressedup and collections including McQ by Alexander McQueen, See by Chloé and Anglomania by Vivienne Westwood. �ere’s also gorgeous jewellery, cute gi� ideas and very bling gold shopping bags. The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3447270. www.shopatsauce.com

Mr Ben’sA walk-in fancy dress box, Mr Ben’s is packed with wigs, accessories and out�ts to transform you from ordinary to Barney the Dinosaur, a beefeater, 1970s disco queen and pretty much anything the Rugby Sevens or a costume party could demand. Rental also available. Mr Ben, Al Ghazal Mall, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3463422. www.mrbendubai.com

In a land of malls, it takes a brave soul to set up shop on their own. Luckily for us, an army of such retailers has taken to the Dubai streets to offer us vintage clothing, rare vinyl, second-hand books and more. Here’s our pick of the best independent shops in the city

“Mr. Ben’s was the first official costumes sales and rentals

business here in the UAE. We wanted to not just be the first, but also remain the best in the

market at what we do.”Jayne Eastland – Managing Director,

Mr Ben’s

Independent shopsIndependent shops

S*uce



MADE IN DUBAI

Five more local favourites

Absolute AdventureAdventurer, guide and Dubai resident, Paul Oliver organises expeditions all around the globe, but his company is based in the UAE and he’s the go-to guy for local adventures here and in Oman. Absolute Adventure, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3459900. www.adventure.ae

Desert GardenerDan, the Desert Gardner, runs the ever-expanding Dubai Garden Centre, now home to a couple of our featured local businesses, Bumble Box Market and an House Of Prose bookshop outlet, as well as other local gems like the RAW Co�ee Company.Dubai Garden Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3400006

DubizzleYou all know about Dubizzle, so we won’t bang on about it, but the online classifieds market with its tagline “buy, sell, find anything” is one of the city’s most successful home-grown sites. www.dubizzle.com

DuplaysAnyone who plays sport in the UAE will already be eternally grateful to this online sports and social club, which enables anyone to join a team or establish their own to play in one of the various leagues on the site. One of the most original and useful businesses in town. www.duplays.com

OkkuWe’ve been regular patrons of the stylish Japanese restaurant since the day it opened, and we’re not the only ones. In fact, Okku has been so successful that its creators are planning to open in London soon. Dubai goes global. Okku, The Monarch Dubai, One Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 5018777. www.okkudubai.com

FabindiaWith handcra�ed products and fabrics from all over India, this store isn’t cheap, but you’ll leave with authentic clothing, linens and accessories. �ere’s even organic food and products for your bathroom shelf. Al Mankool Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri 4pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3989633 www.fabindia.com

Ohm RecordsHailed by many vinyl fans as local heroes, the gang at OHM promotes and distributes hard to �nd music from non-commercial genres like trip hop, acid jazz and jazz. Nice guys, too. Al Kifaf Building, Trade Center Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 2pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3973728. www.ohmrecords.com

My Vintage ParlourFashion fanatic Judith Hanley has a thirst for vintage so set up My Vintage Parlour, a space where her sartorial sisters can book appointments to view the collection and �nd that perfect prom dress. Pieces from the 1900s through to the 1970s have been expertly curated by Judith and she’s on hand to advise on �tting, alterations and accessorising.Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai. Tel: (050) 5504249. www.myvintageparlour.com

Ayesha Depala Boutique A regular on best-dressed lists, Ayesha Depala studied at Central St Martin’s in London before setting up her own label and boutique. Ayesha’s designs are modern, feminine and undeniably in�uenced by her Indian heritage, with rich beading and glamorous colours. �e store boasts all her creations, plus accessories to turn heads. The Village Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri 4pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3445378. www.ayeshadepala.com

BookworldPiled high with second-hand books and magazines, Book World is a hideaway for Dubai’s literati. With everything from vintage Viz annuals to nearly new best-sellers, the prices are cheap, the choice is vast and if your own home is too full, you can borrow a book instead of buying it. Plant Street, Satwa, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9.30am to 9.30 pm and Fri 4.30pm to 9.30pm. Tel: (04) 3491914

Whistle & FluteIt is hard to �nd a good tailor in Dubai, and Whistle & Flute is no di�erent, tucked away in an alley near the Iranian hospital. Trust us, with expert sta�, quality fabrics and speedy turnaround times you won’t begrudge them a little mystery. Plant Street, Satwa, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 3429229

Disco 2000Need highbrow culture at rock bottom prices? Get yourself to Disco 2000 where you’ll �nd CDs and DVDs for under Dhs50, with some even costing as little as Dhs10. Spinneys, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 9.30am to 10pm, Fri 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 3940139

Bumble BoxAlready a What’s On favourite, Bumble Box is a home delivery service o�ering fresh organic fruit and vegetables at a�ordable prices. Boxes cost Dhs80 and Dhs130 depending on the size, with the larger packages holding enough for a family of four (depending on appetites). �ere’s also a market twice a week, Tuesday and Saturday, at the Dubai Garden Centre in Al Quoz starting at 9.30am, where you can meet the team and buy from other local suppliers. www.bumble-box.com

“We offer items with stories and soul, not just

a price tag.” Mimi Shakhashir – Managing Partner,

O de Rose

“There is an amazing entrepreneurial spirit and

energy in Dubai. There always has been.”

Zayan Ghandour – Creative Director, Head Buyer and co-founder,

S*uce

Whistle & Flute



MADE IN DUBAI

Aprons & Hammers A&H, billing itself as “the �rst crab shack in Dubai”, has been causing a big stir around town. Owner and chef, Lawrence Fleet, is omnipresent, chatting with diners, boasting about the quality of the local seafood and cooking up the various buckets and platters on the menu. We recommend the steamed crab with chili and garlic dipping sauce and the mussels in sa�ron cream. Aprons & Hammers, The Dhow, Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4547097

KcalNot merely made in Dubai, but a truly original concept as Kcal, set up by passionate fitness fan Andreas Borgmann and his business partner, serves “healthy fast food” with all the dishes coming in at less than 300 calories. The Kcal beef burger is surprisingly good, and Kcal delivers. Kcal, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4473844. www.kcalhealthyfastfood.com

Piccolo MondoBay DubaiFor a long time, Piccolo Mondo was a solo café hidden away in International City, an Aladdin’s cave �lled to bursting with artefacts and bric-a-brac picked up by owner Zaki Al Obaidi on his travels. �e Dubai Marina outlet launched it into the mainstream, but PMD still retains its distinctive junk shop aesthetic and its delightfully muddled multi-cuisine menu. Piccolo Mondo Bay Dubai, Dubai Marina, Marina Tower, Basement Level, Water Front, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4475449. www.piccolomondobaydubai.com

Wild Peeta Set up by the Al Awadhi brothers, co-founder Mohamed Parham Al Awadhi describes his fusion shawarma restaurants as what every country should have, but Dubai desperately needs – locally-derived, creative food ideas. “Dubai is dependent on importing everything,” he insists. “We need to be able to create.” Right on the money. Wild Peeta, various locations, Dubai. Tel: 8009453. www.wildpeeta.com

ZaroobSet up by local restaurateur Nasser Zuhour, also responsible for Dubai’s Mezze House, Zaroob is a �ne example of the kind of trendy, local restaurants popping up around the city. �e design is o�eat, urban chic with Arabic in�uences, while the restaurant boasts two �oors with an open kitchen producing nourishing Levantine cuisine.Jumeirah Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3276060. www.zaroob.net

BoHouse With its distinctive, colourful and arty décor, its outdoor terrace facing the sea and its no nonsense grub, BoHouse has become a popular hang out for JBR and Marina residents in Dubai. �e food and the laid-back style of the place are perfectly in sync with the city. And, as if that weren’t enough, the café has just launched a book club. BoHouse Cafe, The Walk, JBR, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4298655. E-mail: [email protected]

Coming soon: Keep an eye out for organic restaurant Burger 360, scheduled to open September/October 2011

More Café If you have been in Dubai for more than a week, it’s likely you have discovered More Café. We’re not telling you it’s there, we’re reminding you that it’s Dubai born and bred. Having received the What’s On Award for Favourite Café/ Independent in 2009, managing partner Wouter Lap told us, “I wanted to create a place where you could go and be in total comfort.” He’s done just that. More Café, various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2830224. www.morecafe.biz

Lime Tree Café�e original Lime Tree Café in Beach Road has become a Dubai institution, and one of the hardest places to secure a table at breakfast time in the city. With a fourth café recently opened in Media City, Lime Tree Café is a genuine Dubai success story. Lime Tree Café, various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3498498. www.thelimetreecafe.com

Local House Coffee Shop & RestaurantIt might be located in Al Baskakiya, prime tourist territory, but Local House is the real Dubai deal. Set up by Khalid Sultan Moosa Al Halyan, it specialises in traditional Emirati food and music. It would be grossly negligent not to sample the famous camel burger. Local House Coffee Shop & Restaurant, Al Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3540705. www.localhousedubai.com

“All small businesses are going to have lows – it is your passion

that fuels you to get through them.”

Mohamed Parham Al Awadhi – Co-founder, Wild Peeta

Eating outEating out

Aprons & Hammers



MADE IN DUBAI

Art Galleries

Tra�cThe spacious multi-purpose set-up is ideal for showcasing local artists. Traffic has two galleries, a residency artist studio and PRINT – an art store. Traffic, Umm Suqeim Road, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3470209. www.viatraffic.org

The Jam JarSet up in 2005, thejamjar strives to support the development of Dubai’s art scene through art programmes, educational initiatives, and community projects. The Jam Jar, Al Quoz 3, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3417303. www.thejamjardubai.com

Third LineAnother gallery set in the maze of Al Quoz, the �ird Line specialises in showcasing contemporary Middle Eastern art.The Third Line, Al Quoz 3 Dubai. Tel: (04) 3411367. www.thethirdline.com

XVAHeralded not only in the UAE but also throughout the MENA region, the plush XVA gallery has established itself as one of the big names in Middle Eastern art.XVA Gallery, DIFC Gate Village, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3585117. www.xvagallery.com

Showcase GalleryOne of the most established galleries in Dubai, Showcase caters to both art and antiques collectors.Showcase Gallery, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3488797. www.showcaseuae.com

4 WallsNot just a gallery, 4 Walls puts on painting and sculpting workshops, as well as regular art classes for children.4 Walls Art Gallery, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3388892. www.4walls-dubai.com

BackstageTheatre Group�is non-pro�t amateur theatre group started two years ago with just ten people. Since then, its numbers have swelled to 400 strong – putting on as many as ten productions last year alone. Playing throughout Dubai, it encourages people to join its ranks and aims to raise the pro�le of performing arts in the UAE.Tel: (050) 4524793

Dubomedy Dubbed the ‘Future Of UAE Comedy’ by this very magazine, Dubomedy was set up in 2008 by comedic royalty Ali Al Sayed and Mina Liccione and is the region’s �rst and only comedy and urban arts school. With over 30 years of performance experience, Ali and Mina’s goal is to educate and create a local comedy community. So far, so good. www.dubomedy.com

Dubai Confidential Film ClubRecently we’ve been singing the praises of the DCFC. Only set up this year, the monthly events screen classic art house �lms to small groups of passionate �lm bu�s. �is month’s showing will see Vertigo following the success Casablanca and Breakfast At Ti�any’s.Tel: (055) 5537686

The Fridge A music agency, a performance space, a gallery and make-shi� concert area – �e Fridge is many things, and is totally unique. Set up by Shelley Frost in 2007, its aim has always been to promote, manage and facilitate the collaboration of locally-based music talent.The Fridge, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3477793. www.thefridgedubai.com

Mindloop StudiosYou can’t have an indie scene without a studio to record angst-�lled songs. Cue Mindloop. With three studios, a throng of local session musicians, this wire-strewed recording studio adds much-needed creative grit to Dubai.Mindloop Studios, Dubai Media City, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3914111 www.mindloopstudios.com

“We felt our experience and drive could do well, and we were prepared to give up

the security of steady pay cheques to go for it.”

Stuart Every – Managing Director, Dolphin Creative

CultureCulture

Capital DIs it a gallery or a photography studio? We’re not quite sure – but either way we love it. Set up by the husband and wife team of Ayaad and Meredith Taylor Damouni, it hosts exhibitions and a professional photography service – all the right components to foster a photography community in Dubai. Capital D Studios, Al Quoz, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3415339 www.capitaldstudio.com

TashkeelNow this is more like it. A plush open space set up for artists and designers to help generate creativity. Members are allowed the use of the studios, which include a photography studio and darkroom, 3D studios, and textile printing and jewellery studios. �ere is an excellent reference library, too. Freelancers rejoice!Tashkeel, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3363313 www.tashkeel.org

Dolphin Creative Experimental events company Dolphin Creative specialises in open space theatre, festivals and public events that highlight the arts and entertainment, including its show Swamp Juice (Jul 23 to 31). “We feel this region has a real ‘can do’ attitude, and we want to be part of it,” Stuart Every, Dolphin’s Managing Director, told us.Dolphin Creative, Dubai. www.dolphincreative.ae

The Fridge


The foodie The sports fan


Your summer sortedNeed to fill those long humid weekends and boring evenings? We’ve found the best activities in Dubai to keep you and the family busy

Visit an organic marketWe’ve said it before and we’re saying it again, the local, organic produce at the weekly Bumble Box Market is a must for any serious foodie with scruples.Bumble Box Market, Dubai Garden Centre, Dubai, Sat 9.30am to 1pm. Tel: (04) 34000006. www.bumble-box.com

Enjoy a culinary weekendPlanning on enjoying the superb cooking at Verre? Enjoy it properly with a three-course dinner at Ramsay’s Dubai bastion, a stay at the Hilton and breakfast at Glasshouse, also run by Verre’s Scott Price. The Gordon Ramsay Culinary Experience, Hilton Dubai Creek, Deira, Dubai, Dhs1,295 per couple. Tel: (04) 2271111 Master the art of French cookingEnjoy a lesson with our favourite French chef, Traiteur’s Franck Detrait, followed by lunch or dinner.Traiteur, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, from Dhs350 per person. Tel: (04) 6021804 Sample cheese and wineTwo nights to please both oenophiles and turophiles

Plantation LoungeMore than 30 cheeses with wine pairings and a jazz band.Plantation Lounge, Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach, The Walk, JBR, Weds 7pm to 10pm, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 4484873

Lobby LoungeThe Qamardeen Hotels Cheese and Wine Unwind nights provide exactly what the name suggests.Lobby Lounge, Qamardeen Hotel, Emaar Boulevard, Old Town, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, Wed to Fri 6pm to 9pm, Dhs109. Tel: (04) 4285888

Learn capoeiraGet to grips with the non-contact Brazilian sport, where two players exchange movements. Great for coordination, �exibility and strength.Contender Gym, Al Quoz, Dubai, Sun, Tues and Thurs 8pm to 10pm, Dhs700 per month. Tel: (050) 1034672. www.capoeiradubai.com

Go climbing and be frozen – at the mallAdventure HQ is an enormous new store packed with the latest outdoor equipment – and a climbing wall, cable climb and ice chamber where you can try out winter gear. It’s o�cially the coolest place in Dubai.Adventure HQ, Times Square, Al Quoz, Dubai, 10am to 10pm. www.adventurehq.ae

Try cheerleading aerobicsPom-poms at the ready, the latest exercise craze to sweep Dubai is Cheerobics, which combines cheerleading techniques and aerobics to burn up to 700 calories per hour. Extra points for pep and team spirit.Core Direction, DAMAC Waves Tower, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Dhs350 per month for unlimited classes. Tel: (055) 6930668. www.coredirection.com

Cycle, run or blade at the AutodromeForget the motors, every Wednesday night runners, rollerbladers and cyclists take over the track at the Autodrome with Cycle Safe Dubai. It’s free, but you’ll have to bring your own mode of transport. Dubai Autodrome, Motor City, Dubai, 6pm to 9pm, free. Tel: (04) 3678700

Blend your own teaVisit manager Alexandra Kalinina and her team at the new Tea For You café and create your own blend of tea.Tea For You, TECOM, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4572575. www.tea4you.ae

20-22 25 things to do_DXB.indd 20 6/28/11 9:43:41 AM

The sports fan Culture vulture


Your summer sortedCulture vulture

Watch the Copa AmericaIf you’re more of an armchair or barstool kinda sports fan, then you’ll already know that the cream of South America’s international football stars go head to head in the Copa America during July in Argentina. You won’t have to shell out on the next �ight to Buenos Aires or worry about time di�erences because �e Underground is screening matches and is open from noon to 2.30am.The Underground, Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3995000

Join a Scrabble club Meet like-minded word nerds for monthly meet-ups, regular tournaments and online tip swapping.To contact the group, search for ‘UAE Scrabble’ on www.facebook.com

Swap your booksRefresh your bookshelves and save some cash with the book swaps o�ered at KAS Cafe in JLT. Drop in any time with a tired tome or that novel you just never got around to and pick up a new read from the shelf. Our kind

of recycling.KAS Café, Lake Terrace, JLT, Dubai.

Tel: (04) 4471703

Join the libraryIn the days of Kindles and iPads it’s easy to forget the simple joys of borrowing a book. Run entirely by volunteers (and they’re always looking for more) �e Old Library in Mall Of �e Emirates has 19,000

titles, second-hand books for sale and hosts reading sessions.

Membership is Dhs200 for adults and Dhs50 for children.The Old Library, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, Sat 10am to 6pm, Sun to Thurs noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3414777. www.theoldlibrary.ae

Draw at the mallHone your people watching and sketching skills with Saturday a�ernoon drawing sessions with Raja’a Khalid. You’ll meet at one of Dubai’s malls to observe shoppers, architecture, window displays, perspective and more. Minimum

of four people needed per class and prices depend on group size. Bring your own A4 notebook, black ink pens and pencils.

Tel: (050) 5595617

Show off your knowledgeSummer is prime pub quiz season, with many brainaics holing up in bars to pit their wits for prizes. Here’s our top three:1. Fibber Magees (Tue), Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 33224002. The Sports Lounge (Mon), Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 36279003. Arabian Ranches Golf Club (Tue), Emirates Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3663000



YOUR SUMMER SORTED

Birthday bakingIf your little darling celebrates their birthday this summer, Sugar Daddy’s cupcake and cookie decorating classes could provide the ideal birthday bash. Let them make a mess on somebody else’s property for a change, eh?Sugar Daddy’s, Park Island, Dubai Marina, Dubai, from Dhs150. Tel: (04) 3448204 Free summer campLamcy Plaza and Fun City have teamed up for Dubai Summer Surprises to create a children’s summer camp o�ering entertainment ranging from cooking to yoga. �ere will also be activities available in the evenings.Lamcy Plaza, Oud Metha, Dubai, 11am to 2pm, and 5pm to 7pm, free. Tel: (04) 3352700

An evening at the zooSummer nights are the ideal time to take that trip to the zoo (it’s educational, a�er all), especially as Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort has a buy one get one free deal on tickets until July 31.Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 10pm, Dhs15, children Dhs5. Tel: (03) 7041543. www.awpr.ae Get some rhythmDubai Drums is holding day camps for children aged four to 12 throughout July with hand drumming, singing, drama, story telling and puppet shows. You can even join your progeny between 12.30pm and 1pm for no extra charge. Bonus.Dubai Drums, Al Noor Centre, Barsha, Dubai, Jul to 28 9am to 1pm, Dhs750 per week. Tel: (056) 7442129 Tread the boardsDo you have a budding thespian on your hands? Kids �eatre Works is holding drama camps for children aged seven to 14 led by British performers Hayley Doyle, Anna Stranack and Dean Elliot. Jul 3 to Jul 7 and Jul 10 to Jul 14, Kids Theatre Works, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, 9am to 3pm, Dhs750 per week. Tel: (04) 3414777

Family Luxury lovers

Feast on meatCelebrate the beginning of the weekend by over indulging in endless cuts of top-quality meats and seafood while serenaded by a live jazz band. �ursday nights at Ember really is one for people who know their meat. Ember, The Address Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai. Thurs 6.30pm to 11.30pm, Dhs180 to Dhs245 including a selection of house beverages. Tel: (04) 4388999

Become a photographerSplashed out on a fancy camera but still taking bad shots? Throughout July and August pro portrait snappers Pink Pepper are offering five-day courses for beginners and intermediates at their studio. Forget a stuffy classroom – these sessions are all about fun, experimentation, snap happy times for all ages.Pink Pepper, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs800. Tel: (04) 4340437. www.pinkpepperuae.com

JULY 2011

Summer nights are the ideal time to take that trip to the zoo (it’s educational, a�er all), especially as Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort has a buy one get one free deal on

Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, 4pm to 10pm, Dhs15, children Dhs5. Tel: (03) 7041543. www.awpr.ae

Get some rhythmDubai Drums is holding day camps for children aged four to 12 throughout July with hand

drama, story telling and puppet shows. You can even join your progeny between 12.30pm and 1pm for no extra charge. Bonus.

Centre, Barsha, Dubai, Jul to 28 9am to 1pm, Dhs750

Do you have a budding thespian on your hands? Kids �eatre Works is holding drama camps for children aged seven to 14 led by British performers Hayley Doyle, Anna Stranack and Dean Elliot. Jul 3 to Jul 7 and Jul 10 to Jul 14, Kids Theatre Works, DUCTAC, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai, 9am to 3pm, Dhs750 per week. Tel: (04)

Luxury lovers

Feast on meat

Rolling in styleDitch your tired old banger for a few days and rent a car with some serious comfort. Hertz is o�ering a top-of-the-range Lexus IS300s from Dhs428 per day, including insurance. Road-trippin’ in style. Hertz Middle East, From Dhs438. Tel: (800) 43789. www.hertz.ae Smokin’ successNothing says ‘you’ve made it’ like sitting in utter comfort, pu�ng on the �nest cigar with a choice beverage in hand.

If you’re celebrating this summer, here are our top three cigar bars:

The Cigar BarDaily from 7pm to 2am, The Fairmont, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3118316. www.fairmont.com/dubai

C ClubThurs to Sat from 6pm to 2am,

Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, The Palm Jumeriah, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4530444. www.jumeirah.com

DiademasDaily From 6pm to 2am, The

Monarch Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 5018888.

www.themonarchdubai.com Shop ‘til they dropIf you’re too busy to spend all day shopping around, then let Bloomingdale’s personal shopper service help you out. Tell them what you’re a�er and they will sort you out. �e service is free, the rest is up to you.At Your Service, Bloomingdale’s,

The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04)

3505333. www.bloomingdales.com


Up to 35% off at Dubai’s most celebrated restaurants!

Enjoy up to 35% off this summer when you put your Visa card on a diet with our 8 step plan. The more you dine, the more you lose… off your bill!

Pay with your Visa card when dining at selected restaurants in The Address Hotels + Resorts, The Palace – The Old Town, Armani Hotel Dubai, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches Golf Club Dubai and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and see the

difference a few months can make.

Visit 1 - 3: 25%Visit 4 - 7: 30%

Visit 8 and onwards: 35%

In addition, receive a 25% discount at any spa at The Address Hotels + Resorts and Armani/SPA. For golf enthusiasts, receive a 35% discount on weekday green fees at

The Address Montgomerie Dubai.

Pick up your membership card today at any participating restaurants. For more information, please visit www.theaddress.com/Visa or call +971 4 8883444

Terms & Conditions apply.

Up to 35% off at Dubai’s most celebrated restaurants!

Enjoy up to 35% off this summer when you put your Visa card on a diet with our 8 step plan. The more you dine, the more you lose… off your bill!

Pay with your Visa card when dining at selected restaurants in The Address Hotels + Resorts, The Palace – The Old Town, Armani Hotel Dubai, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches Golf Club Dubai and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and see the

difference a few months can make.

Visit 1 - 3: 25%Visit 4 - 7: 30%

Visit 8 and onwards: 35%

In addition, receive a 25% discount at any spa at The Address Hotels + Resorts and Armani/SPA. For golf enthusiasts, receive a 35% discount on weekday green fees at

The Address Montgomerie Dubai.

Pick up your membership card today at any participating restaurants. For more information, please visit www.theaddress.com/Visa or call +971 4 8883444

Terms & Conditions apply.


Hopping mad

�ree days long. Two weeks and 40 people to build the tent. 30 doormen. 50 bar sta�. Over 100 varieties of beer. A pint pulled every 20 seconds. �at’s right, Hopfest is back. �e fun-�lled three-day fest kicks o� at noon and

�nishes at 2am, with music by �e Maplejacks, Adam Shero, �e Vision and DJ Mark. Up for the hat-trick? On the Saturday take your wristband from

�ursday and Friday and the �rst 200 punters will get a free brunch and a ‘I Survived Hopfest 2011’ T-shirt. Wear yours with pride, you crazy kid.

Jul 21 to Jul 24, Irish Village, Garhoud, Dubai, noon to 2am, drinks from Dhs35.

Tel: (04) 2824122. www.irishvillage.ae

WIN! DRINKS AT HOPFEST

What’s even better than a festival of fun? When it’s free, of course. We have drinks and food

vouchers worth Dhs350 to give to four thirsty readers. For your chance to win, e-mail

[email protected] with ‘Hopfest’ in the subject line and the answer to this question…

At which Dubai institution is Hopfest held?

a) Scottish Villageb) Irish Village

c) Finnish Village

25 HOPFEST_DXB.indd 25 6/28/11 9:45:04 AM


Dubai online

Chances are, like us, you’re permanently parked at your PC or glued to your smartphone. There’s no denying it, the UAE population is spending more time online. We’ve rounded up the best blogs, top twitterers, amazing apps, online shops and stats. So whether you’re an internet lurker, aspiring entrepreneur or Facebook friend, read on to find out what’s happening on our world wide web

Percentage of the UAE population using internet

Percentage of the UAE population on Facebook

5.5 MILLION Twitter users in the region

40% of them in the UAE

DUBAI METRO2Metro stations, times, rules, fines and prices.

DEWABill queries, office locations and complaint logging.

KALIMATAn utterly addictive word game in both English and Arabic.

7DAYSThe latest news in either iPhone or BlackBerry format.

DUBAI 92Listen to Dubai 92 on the go.

GRAND CINEMASWhat’s showing and when, screening times, e-tickets and cinema locations.

DUBAI MAP & WALKING TOURSOne for visitors – download and send them on their way. Maps, routes, landmarks and information.

THE THIRD LINEThe Al Quoz gallery’s app features artists’ work and profiles, exhibitions, events social feeds and a book store.

DUBAI FLIGHT TRACKERGives you up-to-date arrival and departure info from Dubai airport. Excellent for those who travel a lot, or for picking up friends and family

MPARK DUBAIEnter your vehicle details, parking zone and required duration to pay for parking through your iPhone. Snazzy.

Get appyFrom galleries and games to bill paying, here’s our pick of UAE apps to download today

Style blog!Picking out your new wardrobe needn’t be a solitary task. Dubai fashionista and blogger Bebhinn Kelly’s www.hellwafashion.com helps you trawl through latest trends, from designers to high street and everything in between.

Food blog!Unlike actual food, when it comes to food advice, you can never have too much. Check out www.duguzzle.blogspot.com, the sparkling blog from our very own The Critic (p40), James Brennan.

The most popular YouTube video from Dubai is of Shakira bellydancing at her 2007 concert, with 9,644,942 views

54%on facebook

46%not on facebook

@TheLemonadeBoyFollowers: 113,390Who is he? Com Mirza is an entrepreneur and all around ‘creative madman’.Tweets about: Famous inspirational quotesLikelihood he’ll tweet you back: Pretty high – Com is a daily tweeter @ lollipop26Followers: 32,423Who is she? Laura is a beauty blogger who �its between Dubai and LondonTweets about: Beauty products and tipsLikelihood she’ll tweet you back: High – Laura is a self-confessed tweet-aholic @Catboy_DubaiFollowers: 11,458Who is he? Simon Smedley is Catboy from Dubai 92’s breakfast show (and What’s On columnist)Tweets about: Amusing snippets from around Dubai and beyond. He does a good infographic, tooLikelihood he’ll tweet you back: Reasonable – it depends if you have anything entertaining to say @AshrafGhoriFollowers: 25,723Who is he? Ashraf Ghori is an artist and award-winning �lm-maker.Tweets about: Arts, graphics and newsLikelihood he’ll tweet you back: Good – Ashraf tweets… a lot

Top tweetersOur pick of the UAE’s 140-character chatterers

FACT: The UAE is number nine in the worldʼs top ten countries by Facebook penetration. Iceland is number one worldwide – 66.5% of its population have a facebook account

25%not on the internet

75%on the internet

26-27 Dubai online.indd 26 6/28/11 9:49:52 AM


Dubai online Age of facebook users in the UAE

45%over 30 years old

55%15 - 30 years old

Language of UAE Facebook users

0 20 40 60 80 100

88% English

9.3% Arabic

0.8% French

0

UAE facebook users showing status as ̒ marriedʼ

13%Married (male)

20%Married (female)

Emirates Airline is the social media brand with the most ʻfollowers ̓– the Dubai company has 69,950 followers across Facebook,Twitter and YouTube

Facebook users in the UAE are 66% female and 34% male

UAE WORLDWIDE

Globally, the average is 56% female and 44% male

66% 34% 56% 44%

How to build your own appGot a great idea for an app that can change the world, make life easier or just pass the time while you’re on the metro?

Until recently, the only people who could develop (and make cash) from app building were tech-heads. Now, Apps Arabia, an Abu Dhabi-based investment fund, is inviting UAE residents to pitch their ideas and make their app-based dream a risk-free online reality. So how does it work?1. Wannabe app entrepreneurs register and submit their idea for investment.2. Successful applicants are contacted and AppsArabia finds suitable developers.3. It invests in the development (if you have an idea you don’t pay a dirham), it is created, tested and submitted to the appropriate app store. This takes around three months.4. Revenue from sales is kept by AppsArabia until the investment is paid off. Profits are then split between the entrepreneur (70 per cent) and AppsArabia (30 per cent).5. You become the next Mark Zuckerberg. It could happen. www.appsarabia.com

New blog!While most of us moan to our mates about the weird and wonderful people that live in Dubai, a certain annonymous blogger has taken it online. Check out www.mrsmadisondubai.com for all the stereotypes; the campers, the old-timer, the waxer, the 7Days letter writer – which one are you?

Where to buy

FOR HOMESwww.wallcravings.comVinyl waterproof, removable wall stickers, this excellent site is packed with decals

to transform your home into an individual space. Designs range from the graphic to the floral, with Arabic calligraphy, famous quotes and nursery-friendly illustrations. Prices start from Dhs125.

FOR FLOWERSwww.upscaleandposh.comFlowers, chocolates, balloons, cookies and more ordered online and delivered to your

(or your beloved’s) door. Easy to navigate, arranged by occasion and well-priced.

FOR FASHIONwww.boutique1.comThe Dubai home to Lily Allen’s Lucy In Disguise label, Boutique 1’s online offering

looks uncannily similar to Net A Porter, and offers a high standard of sartorial choices. Clothing and accessories from the likes of Issa, Halston Heritage and Erdem are available, plus menswear, stationery, books, gifts and a rather nice discount section.

FOR LIFEwww.dubizzle.comDubizzle has expanded beyond apartment browsing to a site where you can pick up

furniture for free, check out social snaps and even find a job. A website that is as essential to living in the region as a bottle of Masafi, pair of sunnies and some Hawaiian Tropic factor 30.

FOR FOODwww.casseroleonline.comChef-prepared meals delivered to your desk or door. This website allows you to order soups, salads, main meals, drinks and desserts

– you just need to heat it up. Particularly recommended are the lasagne and ratatouille, with prices starting from Dhs18 for a caesar salad. And there’s no minimum order.

FOR DJSwww.djcorner.ae

Gadgets galore at this online emporium, with DJ gear from headphones to turntables, plus lighting, stands and cables. Ideal for those

who don’t want to buy internationally, the company is based in Deira and shipping is free on orders over Dhs1,000 within the UAE.

FOR GADGETSwww.aido.comStanding for All I Do Online, Aido offers gadgets, books, games, DVDs, quirky gifts and

homewares, plus iPads and accessories. We love the massive Scratch Map poster (Dhs70), which allows you to scratch off countries as you visit them. To win a BlackBerry PlayBook from Aido, turn to page 97.

FOR CHILDRENwww.sandypants.comAfter spotting a gap in the market for long-lasting toys, stylish children’s clothes and

innovative products, plus party bags and travel items, Dubai mums Donna and Patricia launched Sandy Pants. Regularly relied upon for presents and party essentials, it has quickly become the go-to website for busy parents thanks to its next day delivery service.

FOR AUCTIONSwww.souq.comIf you love the buzz of bidding, check out Souq. New and used items, motors, tickets, properties

and all manner of bric-a-brac is waiting to be bought for a bargain price. Just have a bit of savvy – we found an ‘original Banksy’ which we’d recommend checking out before parting with your dirhams.

Forget your Amazons, Net-A-Porters and eBays, the UAE has a raft of home-grown websites packed with products. No conversion rates, shorter delivery times and help at the end of the phone. Welcome to your new lunchtime time-wasters and last-minute saviours

86%of mobile internet users use their devices while watching TV

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Our magic eight ball tells us you’re sick of waiting around for your local’s solitary pool table to become free. To make sure you’ll never have to wait again, we’ve scoured

the city for the best pool and snooker clubs. We’ll rack ‘em, you break…

EMIRATES BILLIARDS CENTREThere is no doubt about it, Emirates Billiards Centre is for the purists; it opens early, closes late, is well priced and is kitted out exclusively for billiards.Pool tables: 11Snooker tables: 0Shiekha Rafiya Building, Al Ittihad Road, Deira, 10am to 2am, Dhs15 before 7pm, Dhs20 after 7pm. Tel: (04) 2624499

QBALLA gem in the maze that is International City, Qball offers good rates, both snooker and pool tables and a VIP room. Pool tables: 13Snooker tables: twoInternational City, Morocco Cluster, Dubai, 2pm to 2am, pool Dhs10 before 7pm, Dhs15 after 7pm, snooker Dhs20 before 7pm, Dhs30 after 7pm, VIP room Dhs40. Tel: (04) 4308127. www.qballdubai.com

DUBAI SNOOKER CLUBTwenty-five years ago the Dubai Snooker Club was just six pool tables and a snooker table, now it’s one of the most popular clubs in town, Membership is not compulsory and the snacks are top notch.Pool tables: 13Snooker tables: 14Just off Maktoum Bridge, Karama, 9am to 2am, Dhs25 per hour. Tel: (04) 3375338. www.dubaisnooker.com

DUBAI’S BEST POOL HALLS

BOWLING CITYDon’t let the name fool you, bowling city has

plenty of snooker tables and a nice atmosphere. Plus you can sneak off there whilst your other

half goes shopping.Pool tables: eightSnooker tables: 0

Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 10am to midnight, Dhs35. Tel: (04) 2328600

BILLIARD LEGENDBuried in the bustle of Bur Dubai, this nice little pool hall has seven tables with hour-long bookings making it easy to drop by and pocket a few balls anytime you like. Pool tables: seven Snooker tables: 0Al Tayer Building, Al Mina Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 10am to 2am, Dhs20 before 6pm, Dhs25 after 6pm. Tel: (04) 3988911

GOLDEN HALL BILLIARD DUBAI

Decked out with pool tables, foosball and gaming consoles, there is plenty happening here to pass the day away. The coffee shop attached also does shisha and nibbles.Pool tables: nineSnooker tables: fourNet.com Building, near Lamcy Plaza, Karama, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2629290

7 NIGHTS BILLIARDSNot even the most passionate player can

binge for 14 hours, so if you need a respite they also do food and have a range of video games to pass the time.Pool tables: 18Snooker tables: 0Al Meena Residence Building, Mina Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, 11.30am to 2am, Dhs25 before 5pm, Dhs35 after 5pm. Tel: (04) 3458899

DUBAI BILLIARD ACADEMY

Small and peaceful, this place is a rarity; a family-friendly pool hall boasting two junior-size pool tables. It also does a range of pool

courses if your action is a bit rusty – you hustler.Pool tables: five (including two junior tables)

Snooker tables: oneShaiba Towers, Tecom, Dubai, 1pm to 1am, Dhs15.

Tel: (050) 1518532. www.dubaibilliard.com

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RATE OR SLATE?

Selena Gomez, Leighton Meester, Katie Cassidy, Andie MacDowell, Tom Bezucha (director), Nicole Kidman (co-producer)

‘She’s having the time of someone else’s life’

�ree young women on a second-rate French holiday found themselves whisked into the lap of luxury when one of them was mistaken for a visiting heiress.

Bathe in the lightweight froth of pure escapism, complete with the inevitable arrival of an apparent Prince Charming…

Mistaken identity, a cinema a�iction roughly as widespread as the common cold. Peter Sellers bene�tted from it in Being �ere, but this is closer in tone to �e Lizzie McGuire Movie.

�e original novel, Headhunters, by Jules Bass, involved three middle-aged women. Nicole Kidman was originally slated to be playing a role, but the studio wanted a younger vibe. Shame.

So light and �u�y it might just blow away.

★★✩✩✩

Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart, Dianne Wiest, Tammy Blanchard, Sandra Oh, John Cameron Mitchell (director)

‘�e only way out is through’

Becca (Kidman) and husband Howie (Eckhart) dealt with their son’s death in very di�erent ways, creating marital ri�s as they battled to process their grief.

Be kicked repeatedly in the cheeriness glands for pretty much the entire 90-minute run time.

Crushing but oddly redemptive explorations of personal woe – Robert Redford’s 1980 directorial debut, Ordinary People, would be a fairly obvious point of reference.

�e screenplay was penned by David Lindsay-Abaire, an adaptation of his 2005 Broadway play of the same name.

Kidman and Eckhart make heartbreak a curious pleasure.

★★★★✩

Daniel Radcli�e, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman, David Yates (director)

‘It all ends’

Harry, Ron and Hermione went back to Hogwarts – despite now being old enough to teach there – to defeat Voldemort by �nding, and destroying, his three remaining horcruxes.

Finally witness the wrapping up of a franchise that, in the decade since it hit our screens, has become roughly as popular as breathing.

Any of the previous seven instalments. If you’ve been living down a well and missed them, think Lord Of �e Rings meets �e Goonies – but, frankly, this is no time to be jumping onboard.

Pyrotechnics used in one scene caused a sizeable blaze on the Hogwarts set, which had to be rebuilt before the �lm’s climactic battle could be shot.

A grandstand �nish as Harry bows out in explosive form.

PREVIEW

Monte CarloRabbit HoleHarry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 2

So light and �u�y it might

Rabbit HoleHarry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 2

30-31 Films.indd 30 6/28/11 9:53:13 AM

FILM | NEW RELEASES


Katerina Graham, Randy Wayne, Melissa Molinaro, Lonette McKee, Bille Woodru� (director)

‘Go every step of the way’

Feisty teen Maria (Graham) used her talent for street dance to follow in the footsteps of her choreographer and idol, Honey, whose mentorship o�ers a route out of the ‘hood.

Feel extremely un�t and unattractive, shovelling �stfuls of popcorn into your face while a parade of impossibly lithe youths ricochet around the screen.

�e �rst Honey movie, which came out in 2003 and starred Jessica Alba. Not that you’d be very likely to admit it. Probably wise; Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo was much better.

At least director Woodru� has form in the musical arena – he directed the video for Toni Braxton’s Unbreak My Heart, amongst others.

Lord of the dance? Bored is probably more like it.

★★✩✩✩

Hilary Swank, Sam Rockwell, Minnie Driver, Juliette Lewis, Tony Goldwyn (director, co-producer)

‘An extraordinary journey of how far we go to �ght for our family’

Betty Anne Waters (Swank) was horri�ed when her brother, Kenneth, was arrested for a murder he hadn’t committed, putting herself through law school to help get him released.

Be reminded that, sometimes, one individual against the system can make a massive amount of di�erence. Even if it does take 20 years…

Stories of triumph against the odds with a legal twist. Erin Brockovich might be a decent place to start, with a bit of �e Shawshank Redemption for good measure.

Unfortunately, the real Kenneth Waters only enjoyed six months of freedom before he died in a freak fall while walking home from a family dinner.

Swank and Rockwell are solid, but this never fully ignites.

★★★✩✩

Rupert Friend, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Richard Coyle, Andy Garcia, Val Kilmer, Renny Harlin (director, co-producer)

‘�e �rst casualty of war is truth’

It was 2008, and Russo-Georgian war had just erupted over South Ossetia, where two US reporters struggled to tell the human story behind the violence.

See an impressive supporting cast (including Garcia as Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili) relive dark days that still feel harrowingly fresh.

Mel Gibson’s 1981 breakthrough, Gallipoli, takes an equally dim view of war’s ultimate purpose, while 2001’s Behind Enemy Lines addresses the 1990s Bosnian con�ict to similar e�ect.

Director Renny Harlin’s CV is somewhat chequered, ranging from success with Die Hard 2 to the dismal Cutthroat Island – a �op so catastrophic it made the Guinness Book Of Records.

Absorbing and powerful, but strangely enjoyable.

★★★✩✩

Honey 2 Conviction5 Days Of August

Lewis, Tony Goldwyn (director, co-producer)

Conviction

James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Justin Long, Evan Rachel Wood, Tom Wilkinson, Robert Redford (director/co-producer)

‘One bullet killed the president. But not one man’

Seven men and one woman – guesthouse owner Mary Surratt (Wright) – were arrested and tried as accomplices in the 1865 assassination of US President Abraham Lincoln.

Formulate your own opinion as to whether or not Surratt deserved to become the �rst woman executed by the US Government.

Conspiracy-�ecked political drama – particularly Oliver Stone’s controversial 1991 fact-mangler, JFK, or the more recent Frost/Nixon.

�is is the debut o�ering from Joe Ricketts’ American Film Company, a new production house dedicated to dramatising true stories.

Redford’s slow-burner demands extreme patience, but rewards it.

★★★✩✩

The Conspirator

The Conspirator

Honey 2

30-31 Films.indd 31 6/28/11 9:53:22 AM

EATING OUT


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Summer is well and truly upon us, like sticky, microwaved hollandaise over a pert poached egg. But it’s not all bad news. Fortunately, summer also means it’s ice cream season – if ice cream has a season, that is. We think it does, and this is it, so we’ve tested nine of the UAE’s best gelaterie and ice cream parlours (p35), gaining a few pounds in the process (no need to thank us, just doing our jobs). The onset of the quieter, farcically

broiling months, it seems, is also the ideal time to open a new, internationally celebrated, big name restaurant – like The Ivy, for example. Our verdict on the Dubai version of one of London’s most famous restaurants can be found in the following pages (p34) and, because one restaurant is never enough, you can also see what we thought of the DIFC branch of global Chinese restaurant chain Royal China (p38). Imported names are also on The Critic’s mind this month, and you can read what he has to say here (p40). So, gorged on the �nest ice cream in the Emirates and reeling from dinner at The Ivy, you can also �nd out what we thought of recently opened ‘Meditarabian’ restaurant M’s at Emirates Golf Club, two new Dubai brunches (p39) and a couple of afternoon teas (p36). Still not satisfactorily sated? Then why not whip yourself up a spot of supper with the �rst of our new monthly Twitter recipes (p36)? That should keep you going until August. Salutê.

Gareth Rees, Features & Food Editor

Summer is well and truly upon us, like sticky, microwaved hollandaise over a pert poached egg. But it’s not all bad news. Fortunately, summer also means it’s ice cream season – if ice cream has a season, that is. We think it does, and this is it, so we’ve tested nine of the UAE’s best gelaterie and ice cream parlours (p35), gaining a few pounds in the process (no need to thank us, just doing our jobs). The onset of the quieter, farcically

broiling months, it seems, is also the ideal time to open

33-40 EatingOut.indd 33 7/3/11 9:28:41 AM


EATING OUT

The IvyThe grand, old, British culinary institution has, after much hoo-ha and tantalising delay, opened in Dubai. But has it been worth the wait?

Some people, including our very own �e Critic (p40), bemoan the fact that so many of the city’s ritziest and most chinwagged about restaurants are concepts imported from more established culinary destinations, or wear the name of a superstar chef like a badge of honour, hopefully guaranteeing quality. But we believe that these international colossi provide a benchmark for new, hopefully local, enterprises and keep Dubai �rmly in the global culinary consciousness.

In our minds, �e Ivy was always welcome, as long as it lived up to expectations. And we have had plenty of time, and opportunity, to watch �e Ivy grow – to develop from a delicious rumour to a full-blown restaurant. We talked to the (then newly appointed) executive chef Colin Clague about it prior to Taste Of Dubai, we sampled dishes from the menu with the team from Caprice Holdings, the company behind the London restaurant prior to the opening and twice in the �nished restaurant. It’s fair to say that, during these numerious visits, we’ve had �e Ivy experience, and tasted perhaps 70 per cent of the unpretentious menu.

An alluring list of hors d’oeuvres sets the tone, and we were impressed by the venison carpaccio drizzled with a zingy, but not overpowering, citrus and rosemary dressing; a shrewd and perfectly balanced salad of hoisin smothered duck, water melon and cashew nuts; a slightly overgenerous (not a complaint you hear o�en from these quarters) portion of a �ne smoked salmon; a beef tartar,

In tweet form… The Ivy has finally thrown open its doors in Dubai. It certainly doesn’t disappoint. The gooseberry pie alone is worth the visit. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi

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Need to knowLocation: Emirates Towers, The Boulevard, Dubai Tel: (04) 3198767Web: www.theivy.ae Open: lunch noon to 3pm, dinner 6.30pm to 11pm, bar to 2amCuisine type: British/ InternationalMust eat: gooseberry pie Bill for two: Dhs550 (sans alcohol)

chopped rather than criminally minced, and, of course, the famous bang bang chicken.

Of the mains, we enjoyed a poached lobster salad with artichoke and fennel, just heavy enough for dinner if you’re having the full three courses (and you should be), sea bass – mildly spicy, baked and served in a banana leaf – and a monstrous veal chop in anchovy butter.

�e shepherd’s pie was divine, while a plate stacked with calfs’ liver with bacon in a delicious gravy was probably one for liver lovers only.

A classic beef burger, not trying to be something it was never meant to be as so many burgers are these days, didn’t disappoint, likewise the nice cut of Aussie grain-fed �llet with a bowl of charmingly fat chips and, �nally, a salute to the magni�cent �llet of cod with salty samphire and the tastiest clams we’ve ever eaten in Dubai.

We also devoured a decent sticky to�ee pudding, the playful chocolate bombe, a health conscious plate of Scandinavian iced berries and the selection of English cheeses. But forget that last

BRING YOUR CLEGSWe’ve long believed that the

letter C is underrated. And it seems the Cavalli Club

Restaurant & Lounge at the Fairmont Hotel is in agreement, as it’s running a specially

crafted Seven Cs seven-course menu for

the entire month of July. Why Seven Cs you ask? Well, young landlubber, it’s because the Cavalli menu will o�er up canapés, caviar, chocolate, cocktails, cheese, co�ees and other concoctions (see what they’ve done there?). Crikey.Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: 04 3329260. www.fairmont.com/dubai

LIGHTENING LUNCHESJust because you only have an hour for lunch doesn’t mean you have to inhale a cheese and pickle sandwich at your desk. Pop down to one of three Rotana hotels (Villa, Rimal or Rihab) where you will be able to enjoy a three-course lunch for just Dhs59 in less than 50 minutes. The best bit? If it takes longer than 50 minutes you don’t pay a dirham. Villa Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Rimal Rotana, Murraqabat Street, Deira, Dubai and Rihab Rotana, Garhoud, Dubai, Dhs59. Tel: (04) 7054277. www.rotana.com FRESH STARTAl Fresco. Not an Italian mobster, but an Italian restaurant at Crowne Plaza Dubai, and one with a new menu, at that. Chef Marco Turatti is clearly a �ercely loyal Italian and the menu sings with antipasti, contorni and zuppe. But it's the mains that grab our attention. More than the stereotypical pasta and pizza (although those classics are on o�er), you can delve into the baked lamb rack, the braised grouper in mussel stock, or even the roasted duck breast with polenta. Delizioso.Al Fresco, Crowne Plaza Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 331 1111 www.crowneplaza.com

Wrap your chops around these summery treats

On the menu

letter C is underrated. And it seems the Cavalli Club

Restaurant & Lounge at the Fairmont Hotel is in agreement, as it’s running a specially

crafted Seven Cs seven-course menu for

the entire month of July.

sentence and order the gooseberry pie with custard – it’s the �nest dessert we’ve eaten this year, perhaps ever.

If we have one criticism, it is the location – no windows and an indoor “outdoor” area, an unwelcome reminder to diners that they are in a mall. But the design, conjuring images of a Victorian-era gentleman’s club, with its polished wood, racing green leather seats, aged mirrors, rather good artwork, white table linen and stained glass, is precisely as one would wish it to be. As is �e Ivy itself.



EATING OUT

THE TAKE AWAY TEST

We asked 12 ice cream parlours for their most popular flavour in their smallest take-away size. Here's what we bought…

BASKIN ROBBINSChoc TrilogyTASTING NOTES: A mesh of chocolate types, Choc Trilogy was, perhaps unsurprisingly, crammed with pieces of chocolate. Unfortunately, the ice cream was a little grainy. Not one for a�cionados. PRICE: Dhs8Various locations, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Tel: (04) 2653696/ (02) 6267478. www.baskinrobbins.com

MORELLI’S GELATOPistachio TASTING NOTES: A classic Italian ice cream �avour presented well. This scoop was light, sweet, nutty and perfectly put together.PRICE: Dhs13The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3398313. Khalidiyah Mall, Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6354698. www.morellisgelato.com

LA FRAGOLAForest Berries TASTING NOTES: A nice break from the creamier varieties, the Forest Berries is intense, tart – almost sour – and refreshing. Perfect for the summer.PRICE: Dhs12Souk Al Bahar, Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3661688

HAAGEN-DAZSStrawberry CheesecakeTASTING NOTES: Smooth and not sickly sweet, this scoop is one of the mighty Haagen-Dazs’ classics. It has a good fruit to biscuit ratio, too.PRICE: Dhs14Various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2229247. www.haagen-dazs.com

CONE STREETBiscotto CookiesTASTING NOTES: Thick, creamy and not too sweet. The biscuit crumbs lifted what was otherwise a pretty bland ice cream into the realms of tastiness.PRICE: Dhs12The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4486401. www.cone-street.com

FORTYFruity Ice Cream StormTASTING NOTES: Reminiscent of Mr Whippy ice cream with sweet caramel sauce bringing back childhood memories of summers past. Chunks of over-sweet fruit salad were not so nice.PRICE: Dhs12Various locations, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Tel: (02) 6354511. www.fortyfruity.ae

COLD STONE CREAMERYCookie Doughnut TASTING NOTES: Filled with chocolate chips, lumps of cookie dough and caramel sauce mixed in, this is one for those with a sweet tooth. The wafer waf�e basket was a bit soggy, though.PRICE: Dhs22Various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3996526. Abu Dhabi Mall, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6455316

BRUNETTIRocherTASTING NOTES: This is �ve-star luxury ice cream. The single scoop was light with an intense �avour, identical to the popular Ferrero Rocher chocolates. We’d love to know how they do that.PRICE: Dhs13The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3398173

GALLERMochaTASTING NOTES: The portion size is a touch measly, but this could win over the most ardent coffee hater. Delectably smooth, the initially strong mocha taste soon subsides. PRICE: Dhs10Various locations, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4437147. www.galler.com

MARBLE SLAB CREAMERYBirthday Cake TASTING NOTES: A �avour dependant on toppings – the thick, creamy ice cream is plain, but with the right adornment it came to life. PRICE: Dhs16Various locations, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3411182. Marina Mall, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6818160

LONDON DAIRYChocolate Hazelnut TASTING NOTES: An exceedingly creamy chocolate ice cream with a strong nutty �avour, choc full of chunks of chocolate and hazelnut. PRICE: Dhs6Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3415727. Marina Mall, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6815181. www.mylondondairy.com

GELATO DIVINOCheesecake TASTING NOTES: A sophisticated version of raspberry ripple ice cream. GD's wares are freshly prepared by a genuine Italian chef.PRICE: Dhs12Various locations, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Tel: (02) 4437070. www.gelatodivino.com



EATING OUT

ESCA CAFÉ You don’t have to jet o� to

Italy to bask in the oh so stylish Italian ca�é culture. The Esca Café at the Qamardeen Hotel in Downtown

Dubai tempts you to wrap your lips around a

lingering cappuccino or nibble on some sweet pastarelle treats. If you ask nicely, they’ll even set you up a cheeky shisha. Not Italian but, hey, who’s complaining. Qamardeen Hotel, Old Town, Dubai, 7am to midnight. Tel: (04) 4285888 FANRWe haven’t quite �gured out how to pronounce it yet, but

Fanr (fan-r?), the new restaurant at Saadiyat

Island’s Manarat Al Saadiyat, boasts enough room for 250 diners, and

chef Jihab Bawabejy promises a tidy catch-

all menu, including hearty dishes like Moroccan lamb shank and �sh sayadia.Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Wed 10am to 10pm, Thurs to Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: (02) 6575888

LIME TREE CAFÉIt’s no secret that Dubai loves the

Lime Tree Café. But if more evidence was needed,

the opening of its fourth branch – the second one this year – is it. Their simple,

homemade grub is a hit with everyone from

Jumeirah Jaynes to ravenous o�ce workers, and if the Beach Road branch is anything to go by, it’s best to arrive early to ensure a table. The Lime Tree Café & Kitchen, opposite Royal Mirage Hotel, Media City, Dubai, 8am to 8pm. Tel: (04) 3256325 www.thelimetreecafe.com

Seek out new feeding grounds this summer

A taste of things to come

ESCA CAFÉ You don’t have to jet o� to

Italy to bask in the oh so stylish Italian ca�é culture. The Esca Café at the Qamardeen Hotel in Downtown

Dubai tempts you to wrap your lips around a

lingering cappuccino or nibble

Fanr (fan-r?), the new restaurant at Saadiyat

Island’s Manarat Al Saadiyat, boasts enough room for 250 diners, and

chef Jihab Bawabejy promises a tidy catch-

all menu, including hearty

Lime Tree Café. But if more evidence was needed,

the opening of its fourth branch – the second one this year – is it. Their simple,

homemade grub is a hit with everyone from

Jumeirah Jaynes to ravenous

Afternoon teasPractice drinking cups of tea with your little fingers just so, at this duo of new afternoon soirées

THE LOUNGE, PARK HYATT DUBAIWHERE? Taking a comfortable seat in the serene environs of �e Lounge at Park Hyatt Dubai is an immediately relaxing experience. Read the daily papers while watching the wind blowing through the treetops below the dull summer sky. �e ideal manner in which to while away a hot and humid Saturday a�ernoon. ON THE MENU? It takes a determined pair to make their way through the three tiers of naughty delicacies begging to be devoured, but it simply wouldn’t be right to leave any of the lovely treats unsco�ed. Smoked salmon and cucumber and cream cheese sarnies sans crusts, mozzarella and tomato rolls, scones with pots of jam, cream and lemon curd, and numerous pastries and cakes – the best of which were the chocolate éclairs (leave them until last). And, of course, there are numerous teas and co�ees to wash it all done, as well as a glass of prosecco. �ose concerned about their weight may bemoan the absence of more savoury nibbles but, a�er all, cakes are what a�ernoon tea is all about. The Lounge, Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, daily from 2pm to 6pm, Dhs140 for two, Dhs220 for

two with champagne. Tel: (04) 6021234. www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

RAFFLESWHERE? �e peaceful café in the lobby of Ra�es is a world away from mall mayhem, boorish brunches and hideous humidity, with low sofas and elegant décor providing a serene backdrop to the daily a�ernoon tea. ON THE MENU? Dotted throughout the café are fashion-inspired paintings by artist Hetty Pedder, so it’s no surprise that �e Collection, Ra�es’ new a�ernoon tea, features sartorially stylish snacks and a selection of teas and

TWITTER RECIPEEnjoy the first of our monthly recipes in just 140 characters POMEGRANATE LAMB GLAZEBrush meat with chopped garlic, English mustard, thyme, ginger, pomegranate molasses, soy sauce, season, roast. Omar Romero, head chef, Rhodes Twenty10Le Royal Méridien, Dubai, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3995555. www.leroyalmeridien-dubai.comFollow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi

co�ees, plus bubbly. You’re best to book in even numbers as the plates and platters are to share, with the �rst round boasting duplicates of mini dishes. O�erings including a smoked salmon open sandwich in the shape of a dress, complete with cream cheese bodice and chive bow, and an egg mayonnaise ‘sun hat’ are the stu� of little girls’ fantasy tea parties. Next up is a towering sculpture of all things sugary; couture cakes, a chocolate almond stiletto, macaroon corsages, evening bags made of white chocolate, a carrot cake tote, shortbread sundresses and a chic slice of scone, served with strawberry jelly and clotted cream in a tube. �is is the kind of tea you could linger over for the full �ve hours, or whizz through before heading to the mall to try to �nd an out�t as sweet as the one you just feasted on.Raffles, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily from 2pm to 7pm, Dhs199 for two, or Dhs399 for two with champagne. Tel: (04) 3248888. www.raffles.com

Afternoon teasNEW



Remember your mum telling you not to judge a book by its cover? Well, that’s sound advice when it comes to M’s restaurant, the newest dining addition at Emirate’s Golf Club. Amusingly billed as a “Mediterrabian” restaurant, our concern was that the cuisine would be muddled – a mishmash of con�icting culinary styles. However, the variety of olives, capsicums, aubergines, mashed beetroot, tabouli and other wonderful Mediterranean ingredients on the bu�et were impressive. �e lunch bu�et costs Dhs62, and you can tuck in to as much salad and dessert as you please. And, if you fancy something

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M’s

Is “Mediterrabian” cuisine as silly as it sounds?

more substantial, M’s signature skewers (Dhs70 to Dhs80) – served, rather confusingly as it is neither a Mediterranean nor Arabian country, in the style of Portuguese espetada on a suspended skewer – were sublime. Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, noon to 2.30pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3802222. www.dubaigolf.com

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EATING OUT

Popular in London and Singapore, will DIFC’s newest offering prove a success in the UAE?

Royal China

Need to knowLocation: The Balcony, Precinct Building 4, DIFC, Dubai Tel: (04) 3545543Web: www.royalchinadubai.com Open: noon to 11pmCuisine type: CantoneseMust eat: deep-fried oysters Bill for two: set taster menu Dhs150 per person

Dubai is not overrun with Chinese restaurants, so the arrival of a big name from across the seas is always welcome.

Royal China is a successful chain, especially in London, so it’s probably a good bet there are more to come. But for now, we have the new restaurant in DIFC – the most exciting location for new restaurants in Dubai at present, with Zuma and La Petite Maison already established, �e Ivy up and running and Hakkasan on its way. Tough competition.

As with most restaurants in Dubai, the space came �rst and the restaurant second, but local �rm LW Design, responsible for Dubai favourites Okku and Rhodes Twenty10, has done its best to make the restaurant welcoming with a cocktail bar (yet to be licensed), red and black colour scheme and tasselled, jelly �sh-like lights drooping from the ceiling.

Royal China might truly come into its own when its outdoor tables can be utilised. Now, it’s a little bit claustrophobic.

But the tasting menu we sampled contained some dishes worth going back for – maybe when the restaurant is more established, and licensed to whip up those cocktails it’s so eager to serve.

Two small dishes containing some morsels to wake up our palate arrived �rst – moreish shreds of pickled turnip and mushrooms – described lovingly by the waiter as “fungus” – served with sauce that tasted of bubble gum and was, surprisingly, agreeable.

�en came a huge – the manager later admitted it was

In tweet form… Royal China is not quite ready to take on the big boys at DIFC yet, but the successful international chain serves some solid Chinese dishes. Follow us at WhatsOnDubai and WhatsOnAbuDhabi

follow me

“…a bowl of tom yum seafood soup garnered an instant thumbs up”

“too big” – bowl of tom yum seafood soup strong enough to make our noses run, garnering it an instant thumbs up, and deep fried oysters, which we were directed to wrap in a crisp lettuce leaf and dip in Worcester sauce. We did. And we didn’t regret it. �e cold snap of the lettuce, the warm crunch of the batter and, at last, the slippery �esh of the oyster – a glorious combination of textures.

�e most substantial dishes were several pretty standard duck pancakes, made for us at the table – though we were given the option to construct our own. �ere were, unhappily, a couple of unwelcome bones. But, a few spoonfuls of prawn fried rice and a few hunks of deep fried �llets of so�, gleaming �sh in a thick, orange sweet and sour sauce �lled any space remaining in our bellies.

Dessert – a melted vanilla ice cream – was odd and not quite there yet, but satisfying nonetheless. Just like Royal China.



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New brunches Our verdict on two of the UAE’s newest brunches

MARGAUX �e less gluttonous approach of the Margaux brunch is a

welcome change of pace. �e two

starters, main and dessert you order from the specially devised a la carte

brunch menu are served at well judged

intervals, which, of course, frees you up to sip the unlimited Moet Champagne and cocktails. When it comes to the food, we still miss the more obviously French Margaux of old and still have our doubts about its new, mainstream direction. But there’s no denying chef Jason Oakley knows his way around a kitchen, and the food was, undeniably, good. Oysters on the half shell in a bowl of ice and asparagus rolled in pressed wagyu beef were well executed starters, there was a nice cut of sirloin steak for main and the tennis ball-size doughnuts served with ice cream and various dollops of sauce were pleasingly playful – if a little unsophisticated. �ere’s nothing to blow your mind, and maybe we could warm to the new Margaux a little easier if they would just take down that dreadful picture of Bono. Margaux Restaurant & Lounge,

Souk Al Bahar, Old Town, Dubai, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs495 with champagne, Dhs375 with house beverages, Dhs250 with soft drinks. Tel: (04) 4397555. www.margaux.ae

TERRA FIRMATerra Firma, tucked away at the Al Badia Golf Club, is what is o�en referred to as a hidden gem. Rather too well hidden, unfortunately. But you should make the e�ort to go and �nd it, especially considering the launch of its amiable new Grapes and Roast brunch. Not quite the sunny a�air that the Blades picnic brunch – back in October – is during the cooler months, the Terra Firma brunch is, despite being a rather muted at the moment, an exquisite and peaceful a�air. And the menu is perfectly judged, consisting of a succession of light dishes brought to your table, followed by a carving station o�ering a choice of three roasts with all the trimmings, including roast beef and Yorkshire pudding and, �nally, a dessert station. All helped on its way by a qua�able red it is ideal preparation for a summer siesta. Terra Firma, Al Badia Golf Club, Dubai Festival City, Dubai, Fri noon to 4pm, Dhs330, Dhs195 without alcohol. Tel: (04) 7011127. www.albadiagolfclub.ae

New brunches TESTED

“…a bowl of tom yum seafood soup garnered an instant thumbs up”

LEFT BANKIt’s probably better known for its cocktails, and the new a la carte brunch at Left Bank, Souk Al Bahar, seems designed to enjoy with something shaken and stirred, serving up dishes of �nger food such as chicken satay skewers, spiced tiger prawns with

paprika mayonnaise, mini Angus beef burgers, braised New Zealand lamb and mini �sh and chips. Cocktails and

nothing too big or cumbersome from the kitchen – the lounge lizard’s idea of the Friday brunch. Left Bank, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, Fri noon to 4pm, Dhs275. Tel: (04) 3684501

of �nger food such as chicken satay skewers, spiced tiger prawns with

ONE MORE TO TRY



James Brennan knows food. Having written on everything from bhajis to burgers for a string of international publications, James is now the Middle East chairman of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants judging panel. Don’t miss his monthly musings every issue.

THE CRITIC

The Ivy is one of a rare breed of lucky restaurants. The famous haunt of celebrities and thea-tre-goers in London’s West End is somewhere that food critic AA Gill has said something nice about. “A table at The Ivy is one of the most sought-after pieces of furniture in London,” wrote the grumpy grand-père terrible of British restaurant criticism, wittily. High praise indeed from a man who once shot a baboon.

Well, now you too can enjoy a morsel of that urbane celeb-drenched sophistication – by association, if not directly. The

Ivy has opened over here, which, of course – being the switched-on bunch of rampant guzzlers you are – you already knew. But instead of a joyous chorus of whimpering delight and knee-knocking excitement, how come all I can hear is a jaded collective “meh”?

It’s not exactly the first big name from overseas to settle its stoves in the UAE. Among the numerous, and notorious, brands to grace our shores are Rainer Becker’s Zuma, La Petite Maison and The Ivy’s sister restaurant, Rivington Grill. Alan Yau’s glam Chinese restaurant, Hakkasan, graces Emirates Palace, but Abu Dhabi shouldn’t feel too special, as there’s a Hakkasan in Miami, Istanbul and Mumbai as well.

�en we have the big name chefs. Gordon Ramsay was one of the �rst to see the potential

of Dubai when he opened Verre in 2001. �en the �oodgates opened – Gary Rhodes, Pierre Gagnaire, Nobu Matsuhisa, Giorgio Locatelli, Vineet Bhatia, Antonio Carluccio, Marco Pierre White... �ey appeared almost overnight, as if someone had wheeled in a giant Trojan horse jammed to the fetlocks with celebrity chefs and le� it in Jumeirah.

Among them was Jamie Oliver. It’s hard to tell apart the man from the brand these days, what with his increasingly plump face appearing on everything from magazines to frying pans. But while a frying pan is a frying pan, whether it’s in London or Dubai, a restaurant doesn’t always make such a seamless transition.

For some, Oliver’s disappointing Dubai venture was the �nal straw, and those big

overseas names are becoming increasingly passé. Not even rumours that the likes of Alain Ducasse and Joel Robuchon will soon be planting their �ags in UAE soil can whip up any fervour in some quarters (ie mine).

While it’s easy to grow disillusioned about the homogenisation of the world’s cities, we should remind ourselves that scattered among the UAE’s foreign imports are a few home-grown gems worthy of excitement. �e contemporary Japanese restaurant Okku, for example, is Dubai born and bred and wholly deserving of our patronage. Not only that, but it’s rumoured soon to be turning the tables on London and opening up there.

When AA Gill gets wind of that, he’ll probably wipe out an entire safari park.

“THEY APPEARED ALMOST OVERNIGHT, AS IF SOMEONE HAD WHEELED IN A GIANT TROJANHORSE JAMMED TO THE FETLOCKS WITHCELEBRITY CHEFS AND LEFT IT IN JUMEIRAH”


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ARTS


Summer musicals in Dubai are like buses – there isn’t one for ages, then two come along at once. We catch a ride with some of the performers as Camp Rock and West Side Story prepare to take the city’s stages by storm

JOHN PAYTON, PRODUCER OF CAMP ROCK, POPULAR PRODUCTIONS

You’ve chosen Camp Rock as this year’s summer show – what’s the appeal?Camp Rock is a lot of fun. It has engaging and catchy songs, high-energy dance routines and

Stage-strucka witty script. �ere’s a great summer vibe and will prove perfect for families craving some indoor entertainment, away from the heat. It’s instant entertainment. I can’t get the tunes out of my head.It was originally a �lm – how has it been adapted for the stage?�e original Disney �lm introduced �e Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato to the world, and it had a sequel last summer which did just as well. �e stage version has the best songs from both movies but features the story from Camp Rock 2 with the battle between rival music camps at the heart of the action. All the characters are present and it’s pretty faithful to the movie, but it has been given a few tweaks to impact on live audiences.Once again you’ve auditioned in the UAE to �nd new talent to star – how impressed have you been with the local talent? As always, very impressed. �ere really is a wealth of talent here. Nearly all of the roles are cast from the very best of the auditions – we had 500 apply to be in the cast so the

competition was tough. We also have a handful of pros joining the cast. Most have worked on West End productions and UK tours. We hope one day that the UAE will have a strong enough entertainment industry that the local emerging talent will become the pros. Many of our audiences have remarked that it’s always hard to tell the di�erence between the visiting cast and local. You seem to be coming to the UAE more and more regularly with an ever expanding portfolio – what’s the ongoing appeal for you and Popular?We’ve worked hard to develop entertainment here. It’s exciting for us to be part of the growth of an industry that’s so important the world over. �e UAE has been good to us; it’s an ever-changing challenge and we feel it’s important to keep producing the best for as long as we can so we’d like to think we’ll be here for some time yet.Jul 11 to 16, Camp Rock, Madinat Theatre, Dubai, Dhs120. Tel: (800) 4669. www. madinattheatre.com

from rival music camps at the heart of the action. All the characters are present and it’s pretty faithful to the movie, but it has been given a few tweaks to impact on live audiences.Once again you’ve auditioned in the UAE to �nd new talent to star – how impressed have you been with the local talent?

43-48 Arts.indd 44 6/28/11 9:59:08 AM


ARTS

“AUDIENCES HAVE REMARKED THAT IT’S HARD TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE VISITING CAST AND LOCAL”

Affordable art

Looking at art on gallery walls is all very well but what art lover hasn’t, at some time or other, had a hankering to take what they’ve seen home with them? Trouble is, for many of us our art passions run rather deeper than our pockets. So we were delighted to receive news from Meem’s in-house publishing imprint about the release of the Dia Al-Azzawi Retrospective. A comprehensive account of the Baghdad-born multimedia artist who has been one of the leading proponents of contemporary Middle Eastern art over the course of his six decades-spanning career, it has been produced to the highest standard in a limited-edition run of 900 copies.

The US$500 price tag might seem a lot. But put it into context against a limited-edition artist print (or, heaven forfend, the cost of an original piece) and the fact that it could, as some limited-editions do, become a valuable collectible in its own right, and it starts to look like a bargain. In fact, at over 500 pages in length (less than a dollar a page), they’re practically giving it away. Ok, that might be rather overstating it, but you get the point – art

books are an accessible, informative and (relatively) a�ordable entree into the world of collecting. And Meem isn’t the only local imprint to be doing it – The Third Line’s series of art books have long been a What’s On favourite and wouldn’t you know it, they too have a newly-released limited-edition for sale. Jalal Abuthina’s District 333: Beyond the Surface is a documentary of gra�ti he has photographed around Dubai (and very surprising some of it is too) and all 100 books have been signed by the artist.www.meemartgallery.com www.thethirdline.com

SHONA WHITE, PERFORMER, WEST SIDE STORY

So, West Side Story: surely one of the greatest all-time musicals?Obviously you’ve got popular modern musicals like Mamma Mia, but this is one of the most iconic traditional musicals, with fantastic music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, who’s one of my favourite lyricists and composers. I just think it’s one of the best – and the story’s based on Romeo and Juliet, so it’s a fantastic love story as well.And Anita is a great role – you get to perform some great songs: America, Tonight...And she’s feisty and I’m quite feisty myself. She’s strong-willed and caring – she takes Maria under her wing. Are you looking forward to working with the local talent?I’ve done a few summer schools – a couple based on Wicked and a Mamma Mia – where I’ve worked with children for about a week on singing and movement, leading up to a showcase but never for a full-scale production, so this is going to be something new. I think it’s going to be a really good experience. It’s always good to give something back and remember what it was like to be so young and excited. I guess it reminds me where I came from and why I wanted to do it in the �rst place.You’ve been working in theatre for 13 years. What does it take to become a professional performer?A great deal of hard work and dedication; it’s a very tough business. �ere’s a lot of knockbacks. Seen from outside, because my CV’s quite full, it’s easy to think I must work constantly, but it’s not true – there are down periods so it takes tenacity, hard work and dedication but, to be honest, a little bit of luck doesn’t hurt. It does help to be in the right place at the right time. You need to stick in there.Jul 19 to 23, West Side Story, DUCTAC Theatre, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, Dhs135. Tel: (04) 3414777. www.ductac.org

Ayyam EditionsMore limited-edition news – this time in the more traditional format of art prints. The freshly-launched Ayyam Editions is selling archival prints by photographer Ammar Al-Beik and painters Safwan Dahoul and Khaled Takreti – on display all this month at Ayyam Gallery DIFC.www.ayyamgallery.com

More limited-edition news – this time in the

: surely one of the

Swamp lifeDon’t miss your chance to catch Je� Achtem’s ker-razy show Swamp Juice – a hit at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival and coming to Dubai Marina Mall this month. Canadian Achtem harnesses ‘lo-�’ shadow puppetry to capture life in a swamp – as you do – complete with punk snails and opera-singing mice. A must-see for families. For more see page 15. Jul 23 to 31, Theatrespace, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3116536.

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Art historian, dedicated collector and managing director of Dubai’s Meem Gallery, Charles Pocock knows the UAE art scene like the back of a Picasso. Do you have an art question for Charles? E-mail: [email protected]

Clients, unsurprisingly, o�en ask me about the pricing of art. And the answer is that prices can di�er greatly, depending on where you make the purchase.

A sculpture by Egyptian artist Ahmed Askalany was sold at a Dubai auction in April 2011 for $118,000; the same work, from the same series, by the same artist, is also available from the artist’s gallery at $22,000.

I bought an original work by Iraqi artist Suad Al Attar at a London auction in June 2011 for $24,000; her gallery has similar work at $72,000. �is shows that prices can be vastly di�erent, and the location of the sale is neither here nor there. So, a potential buyer needs to go into both arenas having done their research. With access to the in�nite resources available on the internet, there is no excuse not to be informed.

Knowledge is everything when it comes to buying art.

�e o�cial gallery prices are set by the artist with the gallery, with both parties in agreement that the works cannot be sold for above this price. A good example of this is the work of Parviz Tanavoli (we act as his agents). �e work Heech Lovers (Fibreglass) is available at Meem for $48,000, this being the set price con�rmed by the artist. Another gallery in Dubai is currently selling the same work for $90,000. �is in�ated price makes no sense, and the buyer needs to be made aware of the correct prices.

Many people will argue that the value of an artwork is set at the price someone is prepared to pay for it – in some instances this is true, others not. A speci�c piece might be required for a collection, and it takes only two people at an auction, chasing a�er the same work, to drive the price through the roof. �at is a case of demand driving up the price. But marking up an artist’s work by almost 50 per cent is something else entirely. Buyers beware.

Remember the golden rule. Research is paramount, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to any work priced over $30,000. It is also essential to look at provenance and certi�cates of authenticity, a topic I will discuss in due course.

THE ART INSIDER

Ara showcases emerging Emirati artists – why is that important to you? Actually, the Ara Gallery’s intention is to showcase emerging Arab artists generally, not only Emirati artists. I believe Ara is a great complement to the existing institutions and art galleries in that it provides a very professional space for artists to begin paving their way.And you raise money for charityWe partnered with Habitat for Humanity (HFH) in our opening exhibition and raised Dhs163,000 through the auction with Christie’s for HFH Lesotho’s Orphans and Vulnerable Children’s programme. We have also created a book featuring the children that participated in the project whereby 50 per cent of proceeds of sales go back to the kids. We’ve also allocated 2.5 per cent of each sold art piece for the children.Do you see any particular trends in Emirati art in terms of themes being represented or mediums being used? Emirati artists use a lot of cultural elements in their artwork. Of course this does not apply to all, but I believe it is safe to say that Emirati’s generally love representing their culture in their general conversations, lifestyle, and art as well.What can we see now?We have an exhibition with AUD showcasing their senior class and a summer exhibition, UAE: A Work of Art, showcasing seven Emirati artists with works that represent what the UAE is to them.www.thearagallery.ae

Moza Al Abbar, founder of The Ara Gallery

Five minutes with...

Frocktastic!This looks set to be the year of the show-stopping frock. Design and textile students from Herriot Watt University have teamed up with Mawaheb from Beautiful People, the Dubai-based art studio for young adults with special needs, to produce a one-o� piece of wearable art. Incorporating 20 hand-painted squares depicting iconic Dubai architecture, it comes complete with a four-metre train and headdress. On view at the Mall Of The Emirates branch of More Café until the end of July – Kate Middleton eat your heart out.www.mawaheb-dubai.comwww.hw.ac.uk/dubai

show-stopping frock. Design and textile

43-48 Arts.indd 46 6/28/11 9:59:15 AM

Get ready to enter the record books. Travel on a journey through the history of the U.A.E to above the clouds and beyond your highest expectations. With timed ticketing for your convenience, visit At the Top, Burj Khalifa to see Dubai as it has never been seen before. For more information please call us on 800 AT THE TOP, or visit www.atthetop.ae to purchase your tickets today.

ARTS


Five to see

ÅHEROES & VILLAINSA group exhibition from this Al Serkal Avenue newbie. The concept? That in these uneasy times, separating – or even identifying – the villains from the heroes in world a�airs large and small is a nigh-on impossible task. What these eight artists, who include Abraaj Capital Art Prize winner Marwan Sahmarani, do is get you thinking and questioning – just as good art should.Until Jul 21, Unit 21, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3469906. www.lawrieshabibi.com

ÑOF BLIND MEN & ELEPHANTSThe somewhat folkloric exhibition title o�ers a �avour of what to expect: quirky, personal takes on contemporary India, as captured by six emerging photographers. As rich and varied as the country it attempts to catch the �avour of.Until Jul 31, The Empty Quarter Gallery, Building 2, DIFC, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3231210. www.theemptyquartergallery.com

ÉDIVISION BY ZEROAnahita Razmi, Mathias Garnitschnig, Aamir Habib and Florian Hafel form this group exhibition which aims to explore the criss-crossing boundaries of contemporary art, from concept to form and between the personal and the political. Yet another strong showing from Carbon 12.Until Sept 15, Carbon 12, Warehouse D37, Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz Dubai, free. Tel: (050) 4644392. www.carbon12dubai.com

ÅSNAIL FEVER Photography, installation, video and painting all feature in this group summer show. Where things get clever is in the concept – by using music as a theme for the individual artists to explore we, the viewer, get two art forms for the price of one. Fascinating.Until Jul 28.,The Third Line, Al Quoz 3, Dubai., free Tel: (04) 3411367. www.thethirdline.com

ÅARTWORKS OF GEORGES BASSIL JBR’s Vindemia gallery moves inland this month, with a showcase of work by Lebanese painter Georges Bassil at Aspen in the Kempinski Hotel. The artist’s portraits, inspired by the voices of some of the 20th century’s greatest female singers, from Billy Holiday and Maria Callas to Um Kulthum, are suitably haunting and lyrical. Until Aug 2, Aspen, Kempinski Hotel, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, free. Tel: (04) 3410000. www.vindemia2010.dukkanarabia.com

43-48 Arts.indd 48 6/28/11 9:59:26 AM

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SHOPPING


p52 Second chance shoppingp53 Summer essentialsp55 Sophia says...p57 New openings

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SHOPPING

Second-chance shopping

Fast fashion, retail therapy and all those malls mean many of us have unworn clothes lurking, tags intact, in our wardrobes. So what to do with these guilt-inducing garments? Sian Rowlands and her sisters, Bekky and Teagan, used to be like you – wardrobes bursting at the seams with shopping bags, clothes worn once then forgotten and credit cards thoroughly exhausted. But over lunch, they hatched a plan – to create a website that enabled members to sell their clothes online, not necessarily designer or vintage pieces, just high street fashion in good condition. “�e My Ex Wardrobe concept was born from my frustration at the bags of clothes I’d emptied from my wardrobe, mostly worn once or twice but some still had tags on,” Sian explains. “In a consumer driven market like Dubai, there’s not really an avenue to sell on these clothes for a decent price, so why not create one?”

A�er a successful so� launch in May, the sisters are planning regular events and meet-ups to complement the website, where budget-conscious fashionistas can come along to buy, sell, or both. “A lot of people have been

a�ected by the downturn and now have less disposable income,” says Sian. “We want to provide an avenue for them to get a bargain and get some money back.”

Each event will be themed, and the next will focus on revitalising your holiday wardrobe, with drinks included in the entry cost, plus stylists and make-up experts on hand for mini-makeovers. In the future, the Rowlands sisters plan to open up My Ex Wardrobe to maternity clothing, menswear and children’s fashion so everyone can bene�t from the concept. So what advice would they give other budding UAE entrepreneurs? “Long-standing expats o�en say ‘It’s not what you know; it’s who you know’ and when it comes to setting up a business in Dubai, that is true.” Jul 9, Mahi Mahi, Wafi, Dubai, 3pm to 6.30pm, Dhs85. E-mail: [email protected]

SEVEN MINUTESTwins Dina and Lina Sam were born seven minutes apart, and 27 years later

the stylish duo set up their own fashion label. Seven Minutes

has just launched a daring range of revolver themed clutch bags (from Dhs899)

Sister blissMore UAE-based sisters who are doing it for themselves

embellished with sequins.E-mail: [email protected]

MOZA AND MARIAM AL MAZROEmirati sisters Moza and Mariam showcased their respective collections at this year’s Dubai Fashion Week, with Moza’s G’Maash brand re�ecting Western styles and Mariam’s Mimi label boasting bright, modern jalabiyas. Ones to watch in 2011.www.dfw.ae

From left to right, Teagan, Sian and Bekky

THE DISPATCHERRyan David JahnThis, the third novel from award-winning crime author Ryan David Jahn, is a must for fans of the genre. Based in a small town in East Texas, police dispatcher (phone operator) Ian Hunt is �nishing up his shift when he receives a phone call from his daughter, Maggie. Odd? Not under normal circumstances, but Maggie has been dead for seven years. The mystery unfolds at a furious pace and is likely to keep you up into the wee small hours of the morning.

COMES THE NIGHTHollis Hampton-JonesDark and uncompromising, Comes The Night tells the story of Meade, a 19-year-old girl dealing with several issues of addiction, including an infatuation with her twin brother, Ben Ho. Living in Paris, far from her home town of Nashville, Meade’s life begins to spiral out of control as she delves in the glamorous and murky past of her fashion photographer lover. The author uses her own experiences of living in Paris and Nashville to add gritty realism.

A METHOD ACTOR’S GUIDE TO JEKYLL AND HYDEKevin MacNeilAll set to play the lead in a production of Jekyll And Hyde, egotistical actor Robert Lewis nearly cops it as a car hits his bike. On recovering, he starts to notice that the people around him are treating him di�erently. The pace and dark humour give the book its character, but it is the subtly of the story that incrementally builds into an all-revealing pay o�. All books available from Magrudy’s, Borders, Jashanmal and Kinokuniya

The bookworm

is a must for fans of the genre. Based

Ho. Living in Paris, far from her home

starts to notice that the people around

What’s our little, green friend reading this month?

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SUMMER ESSENTIALSTake your holiday wardrobe from dull to dazzling with these must-pack items. Suntan not included

1/3 AD

HERMES IT AIN'TThis cheeky ‘Birkin’ canvas tote by Banane Taipei comes in nine colours and would work equally well as a beach bag or shopper.S*uce, The Village Mall, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs460. Tel: (04) 3447270

TRUNK SHOWVilebrequin’s vast choice of colours and prints ensure there’s a design to suit your style. We love the new Lagon collection with its aquatic theme and turtle motif.Vilebrequin, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, from Dhs495. Tel: (04) 3686531

ARRIVE IN STYLEDesigned by pop artist Romero Britto, you won’t lose these colourful cases on the carousel. Bloomingdale’s Home, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, from Dhs750. Tel: (04) 3505333

SHADY LADYIdeal for a city break, these sunnies will never betray your tourist status. When in Rome...Bulgari, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, Dhs1,350. Tel: (04) 3308834

BEACH TO BARVery J Lo in Versace circa 2000, this glam maxi will up your style stakes all day and all night.Mumbai Se, Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Dhs2,895. Tel: (04) 3997232

TUNES ON THE GOThis digital audio player is MP3 compatible, has 4GB memory, a voice recorder, 15 hour battery life, FM radio and is available in summery hues.Emax, Oasis Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs189. Tel: (04) 5154444

SNAKE HIPSOn trend and costing less than Dhs150, you can a�ord to indulge in the latest fashions with your swimwear this year.Koton, Mall Of The Emirates, Barsha, Dubai, Dhs129. Tel: (04) 3410467

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We drag the oh-so stylish Sophia Serin away from the helm at Emirates Woman into the grubby What’s On office to answer your wardrobe woes

Do you have a fashion question for Sophia? E-mail: [email protected]

It’s my �rst summer in Abu Dhabi and with Ramadan just around the corner I need some advice on what I should, and shouldn’t, be wearing.Susan, Abu DhabiYou should err on the side of caution during the Holy Month, but this doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable. It really is pretty much business as usual – no short skirts to work or too much cleavage, but with a little more attention to detail. Long skirts or cute chinos are winners, as are ka�an tops with capri pants, long sleeve tees and shirts. Summer scarves are also winners as they can be worn loosely around the neck to cover a bare chest or wrapped around shoulders.

SOPHIA SAYS...

Scarf Mango, trousers and top by H&M

I’ve seen loads of white lace on the catwalks and red carpets. How can I incorporate this trend without looking too bridal?Jumana, Sharjah�e trend that keeps on giving, white lace, or its stylish sister, broderie anglaise, is well worth investing in for seasons to come. Fresh and feminine, layer these lacy numbers with pale blue jeans or don a dress for a fabulous 1950s look. You will be surprised when you actually try the items on that they doesn’t look ‘bridal’ at all if kept at knee-length or worn with coloured shoes.

I’m o� to NYC for a holiday next month – how can I avoid looking like a tourist? What are New Yorkers wearing?Julia, DubaiFi�h Avenue, Greenwich Village or Tribeca – wherever you go in Manhattan dress codes vary and, much like Paris, anything goes. On the fashion front, there is nothing worse than looking like a tourist (whatever your location) so avoid ‘I heart NY’ T-shirts at all times. If you are on the Upper East Side, be prepared to dress up, everyday, not forgetting to get a blow-dry and mani/pedi. �e heat (even by UAE standards) in Manhattan can be sti�ing in August, so think �ip skirts, designer tees, day dresses and ballet pumps, not forgetting designer shades, bag, watch and more. For the evening, an LBD, or black all-in-one teamed with sky-high stilettos wouldn’t be out of place.

If you are heading south-west to �e Village, no need for heels of any kind, so instead sport more of a laid-back, cool look. �ink distressed designer jeans with vest and gladiator sandals for the cool kids and anything by Polo Ralph Lauren for the preppy set.

Annoyingly, I stained the hem of my cream chinos with road tar. Can they be rescued? Farid, Dubai�ere are many old myths about removing tar from fabric: methylated spirits, rubbing ice cubes over the area, and even using paint thinner. At the end of the day, none of these methods work very well (if at all) and end up damaging the fabric in most cases. My suggestion would be to head to your nearest Gap and grab a new pair.

Images Dolce&Gabbana

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LUSHYou’ll smell it before you actually see it – as is the case will all LUSH stores. The wonderful aromas, coming from the fruity bath products, are set to waft their way to a new location on the �rst �oor at The Dubai Mall. The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4356114. www.lush.com Adventure HQBilling itself as the ultimate outdoor adventure superstore, pretty much says it all. Adventure HQ o�ers gear for almost any outdoor activity you can think of, from kayaking to diving, from cycling to falconry. Need more proof? It even has its own in-store climbing wall.Time Square Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3466824. www.adventurehq.ae NooshAlthough not based in a physical store, we do like to help out local start-ups. The people behind the online fashion label Noosh are equal parts fashion and co�ee fanatics, which lead them to designing clothes perfect for popping out for a quick cuppa.www.nooshcouture.com

New openings

The latest stores to open their doors

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Laura Ashley HomeOnce the preserve of 1980s housewives, these days Laura Ashley shops aren't the �oral nightmares you may suspect. Instead, the new homewares store at The Dubai Mall is full of calming colours, quality pieces and contemporary styles, all with a quintessentially English feel. Spread over a whopping 3,300sqft, you'll also �nd paints, art and accessories, plus a design service. The Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3253245. www.lauraashley.com

51-57 Shopping.indd 57 7/3/11 9:31:04 AM

Summer Celebrations

Reservations are essential. Quote 'Summer Celebrations' when booking. Minimum table booking of two people.

30% discount and complimentary pre-dinner drinks!

Give yourself a reason to celebrate this July.Book a table at either Amwaj or Marrakech on level 2 and enjoy 30% discounton your total bill. What's more, enjoy complimentary pre-dinner drinks for one hourbefore your meal.

Sheikh Zayed Road, P.O. Box 75880, Dubai, U.A.E. Tel: (971 4) 343 8888 Fax: (971 4) 343 8886 www.shangri-la.com/dubai

at www.facebook.com/ShangDubai

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Summer celebration - whats on10.pdf 1 6/28/11 1:48 PM

MIND & BODY


RETR

EAT

SPA

p60 Totally tropical p61 His 'n' hersp62 Dynamic Browsp63 Spa news

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MIND & BODY


What? KeraStraight Brazilian StraighteningCountry of origin? BrazilWhere can I try it? Salon InkWhat does it involve? Unruly hair is a curse and trying to tame disobedient locks can prove a daily battle. While ceramic straighteners heralded a new, smoother dawn, repeated use can be damaging for the hair, and then there’s the added time factor – which we have precious little of, particularly in the mornings.

However, with KeraStraight Brazilian Straightening our bad hair days may be well and truly numbered. Keratin is a natural compound and a protein that gives hair its strength. Unlike chemical straightening, KeraStraight repairs rather than damages as it straightens; it can also be used on coloured as well as non-processed hair. What’s more it doesn’t contain chemical nasties (formaldehyde and aldehyde) associated with a lot of straightening treatments.

To start, hair is thoroughly washed before the Keratin is applied, left to develop and then blow-dried and straightened. While some other processes require you to leave the Keratin in for three days (think hair akin to working in your local chippie for a fortnight) with KeraStraight, the hair is mercifully washed and blow-dried again.Does it work? KeraStraight sadly doesn’t promise poker-straight hair, but rather less frizz, less wave, better condition and a straighter appearance that will last up to four months. We left the Salon Ink with high hopes and a glossy straight mane, but of course the real test would be when we blow-dried at home – Nicky Clarke we are not. Happily, our hair was far more manageable, less dry and notably straighter. Result. Details: Salon Ink, Oud Metha, Dubai, from Dhs800. Tel: (04) 3344002. www.saloninkdubai.com

What? Traditional Turkish HammamCountry of origin? TurkeyWhere can I try it? Talise Ottoman Spa at Zabeel SarayWhat does it involve? Talise is no ordinary spa. It is not an awkward space hidden away in the depths of a hotel, or a quiet nook on the 17th �oor. Oh no, Talise is a vast palace of cathedral-like calm, dedicated to all things steamy, soapy, wet and soothing – it has ambition, it sets out to wow, to conjure up the magni�cence of the Ottoman Empire. And, though it is undeniably verging on the kitsch, it succeeds. Split into male and female sections, Talise is a playground of pampering with saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, outdoor treatment ‘pavilions’, heated stone beds, Thalassotherapy pool and just about anything else you could wish to �nd at a spa. The treatment list is suitably extensive and varied, but the 45-minute traditional hammam is a must. Laid out on a heated marble slab – with the room entirely to yourself – beneath a brightly decorated, high, domed ceiling your therapist will douse you in warm water before scrubbing every inch of your soaking body with a kese mitt, lathering you in olive oil soap foam and, �nally, pouring buckets of cold water over your head to wash it all o� and leaving you as clean as anyone has a right to be. Does it work? This treatment is billed as a prelude to a longer treatment, a massage or whathaveyou, but it’s what Talise is all about and is pleasurable enough to be enjoyed on its own. Make sure you leave plenty of time before, and after, your treatment to enjoy everything Talise has to o�er. Details: Talise Ottoman Spa, Zabeel Saray, The Palm, West Crescent, Dubai, 9am to 9.30pm, Dhs300. Tel: (04) 4530000. www.jumeirahzabeelsaray.com

Totally tropicalTake a trip around the world, from the comfort of a spa and salon NEXT

MONTH: TIBET &

FRANCE

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MIND & BODY

Totally tropical His ’n‘ hersOur lady and gent give their verdict on The Spa at The Address Dubai Marina

His Hers

TALK US THROUGH ITA�er a chinwag about skin types, the therapist administers a facial massage – to oxygenate the skin – before applying a facemask and leaving it on for ten minutes or so, during which time you will receive a head, neck, arm and hand massage.

BEST BITGlycolic acid is used to even your skin tone, which sounds scary, but isn’t. It did the trick, when I touched my face a�er the treatment it felt like an eight-year-old’s.

AWKWARD MOMENTSIf your skincare regime is minimal like mine (soap and warm water) be prepared for a mental tut-tut.

TALK US THROUGH ITA mixed bag of techniques are used to get your blood pumping to your muscles and really loosen them up, including stretching (always good) and acupressure – focusing on speci�c areas and applying pressure with the �ngertips.

BEST BITMy therapist was more inquisitive than most and, discovering that my muscles were extra tight from exercise and slouching in front of a screen all day, applied a Deep Heat-style sports gel. Initiative. Full marks.

AWKWARD MOMENTS�ere are too many doors in the changing rooms (two), so be careful if you’re visually challenged – you could end up in an area where you shouldn’t be, wearing less than is polite.

HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE PANTS?Tight and stretchy. �ey held everything in place without cutting o� circulation. Good choice.

SLEEP FACTORLow, you probably won’t doze o� – this is a serious treatment.

WHO SHOULD GET INVOLVED?Sporty types and those with very sore muscles.

HOW WERE THE DISPOSABLE PANTS? �e beauty of a facial is that you can opt out of the pants, but they looked very nice.

SLEEP FACTORUnlike some facials (bad ones), this one was administered with me lying down. Once the mask was applied and the therapist began the head massage, it was very di�cult not to dri� o�.

WHO SHOULD GET INVOLVED?If your day-to-day skincare routine needs a wake up call, this is de�nitely one for you.

HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG?Dhs475 for 60 minutes. Quite an expensive way to spend an hour, but ultimately worth it.

Hers

TALK US THROUGH ITA�er a chinwag about skin types, the therapist administers a facial massage – to oxygenate the skin

BALINESE MASSAGE

RADIANCE FACIAL

The Spa, The Address Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4367777. www.theaddress.com

HOW MUCH AND HOW LONG?It’s Dhs500 for 50 minutes and Dhs600 for 80 minutes, which is not too bad. Worth the extra Dhs100 for half an hour more, we’d say.

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MIND & BODY


THE SALES PITCHIf your eyes are the windows to the soul, the eyebrows are the… roof? Curtains? Regardless, they frame the face and have the power to transform you in seconds, adjusting the structure, making you look younger or, worst case scenario, like an over-plucked chicken. Eyebrows are also one of the quickest ways to make you look groomed and polished, which means that they are best le� to the professionals, rather than in your shaky hands with those cheapie tweezers you got in a manicure set from a Christmas cracker.

With this in mind, it was time for a trip to the pros to check out a new treatment by Dynamic Brows that promises to turn your furry slugs or non-existent brows into enviable face furniture in under an hour.

THE TREATMENT�erapist Ophelia handed us a book �lled with celebrity faces, each categorised into ultra thin, thin, medium and thick. �e sizes were, for once, not referring to derrieres, but eyebrow width, with Katie Holmes at the skinny end of the scale and Cindy Crawford deemed broad for the �rst time in her life. We were advised which size and shape would suit, and opted for Jennifer Lopez’s medium brows, which had a code that corresponded to a stencil in the back of the book. So far, so fun.

“Darling, at �rst you will hate them. �en in two days they will be perfect,” Ophelia claimed. With a packed weekend ahead, this wasn’t welcome news. While we mentally cancelled plans, she placed the stencil over our existing brows and painstakingly measured angles and distances to make sure everything was symmetrical before tracing J Lo’s shape onto our face. She �lled in the outline with a pencil, then waxed and threaded any hairs that were outside the line. A quick slick of dye to �ll in any gaps and then it was a waiting game to see the results. It wasn’t pretty. Rather that seeing the Latino lovely staring back from the mirror, the re�ection bore more resemblance to UK MP

Alistair Darling, which isn’t every little girl’s dream look. Ophelia was quick to reassure, with some lightening make-up and promises the dye would fade within a few days before sending us on our way.

THE VERDICTAdmittedly, the drive home was somewhat fraught, but by the next morning the look was less dramatic and within 48 hours J Lo’s �aunt-worthy brows had emerged. And enviable they were. �e e�ects last a week before the dye on your skin disappears, while your brows retain the colour for a little longer. Be warned: you soon get used to looking so well groomed, and may �nd yourself scrutinising your friend’s faces, wondering if they’d suit the Tyra Banks or are more Eva Longoria.Dynamic Brows, Al Asalla Spa, Dubai Ladies Club, Beach Road, Dubai, Dhs195. Tel; (04) 3449445. www.dubailadiesclub.com

Dynamic browsCelebrity-inspired eyebrows? We’ll have a pair of Spocks, please

“Darling, at first you will hate them. Then in two days they will be perfect,” therapist Ophelia claimed

High voltageIntrigued by the idea of being electrocuted into better shape, What’s On investigates

The thought of being wired up to a device and having an electrical current pumped

through your body seems more reminiscent of a sci-� �lm rather

than a health treatment. And after having 16 pads connected to electrodes spread over your body and hooked up to a

machine, there is still not much evidence to the contrary. But worry

not – for it is not what the treatment looks like, and more about what it does.

Electrotherapy treatment is based on muscle stimulation, and uses a controlled electrical current which is pulsed into your body to cause your muscles to contract and relax – the same thing they would do if you were working out in the gym.

The treatment develops in three stages. The current for the three-minute long �rst stage is light and constant, as it warms up your muscles and feels like thousands of ants running over your body. The voltage is then upped for the main ‘training’ stage, where the current changes from constant to sharp pulses – forcing your muscles to contract – which takes a few minutes to get used to. Throughout the 25-minute stage your body begins to become used to the current strength and, should you want to, you can have it increased. The �nal stage might sneak up on you as, without much warning, the pulsing current stops and begins alternating through the pads, helping you stretch out your muscles for ten minutes before it �nishes.

The Silkor clinic claims that the 45-minute session is equivalent to spending six hours in the gym. So e�ectively (although not as rewarding) you can work on building muscle from lying �at on your back reading a book.

As you can choose where to place the pads on your body, the treatment can be localised. This makes it ideal for stimulating, and getting rid of, deep fat pockets as well as reducing the toxins trapped in the fat that will help get rid of cellulite build-up – which sounds like another piece of science-�ction. Does it work? We didn't notice a perceptible di�erence after one session, but that would be true for one work-out in the gym, so we'll have to go back for more.

Silkor Villa, 708 Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqueim 2, Dubai, Dhs400. Tel: (04) 3480500 www.silkor.com

Dynamic THE

VERDICT

TESTED

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MIND & BODY

“Darling, at first you will hate them. Then in two days they will be perfect,” therapist Ophelia claimed

Spa newsThe latest openings and biggest beauty bargains

1/2 AD

THE VERDICT

SUMMER ESCAPEThe Mandara Spa at The Monarch Hotel is promising to make you forget about the heat of the UAE’s toughest months. Its Summer Escape package has an Indonesian in�uence, including a Javanese lulur body polish and Balinese massage. And all its treatments can be done in a brisk in two hours.Until Jul 31, Monarch Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs450. Tel: (04) 5018888. www.themonarchdubai.com

HIGH HAIRBrand spanking new, the JetSet Altitude hair salon is the latest concept from trendy pamper brand, JetSet. The chic interior, built to imitate that of a private jet, makes it a stylish way to get your hair done for those big events planned this summer.JetSet Altitude, Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3300887

PICK OF FOURWhatever your mood this month, you’ll be able to �nd a treatment at the Retreat Spa. Its July specials include a slimming down therapy (Dhs890), re�exology (Dhs800), unwinding massages (Dhs550) and a refreshing facial (Dhs500).Until Aug 31, Retreat Spa, Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3998888. www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

TWO GOODFancy a two-day all-out pamper fest? We thought so. The Arabian Courtyard Hotel is o�ering a summer package including a two-night stay (with dinner), two yoga sessions and two detoxing spa treatments. Too good to miss.Until Aug 31, Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai, Dhs999. Tel: (04) 3519111. www.arabiancourtyard.com

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Every week in our Arts & Life section, we give you step-by-step guides to create gourmet cuisine from

the world’s leading chefswww.thenational.ae

Wednesday is food day

Food

SPORT & OUTDOOR


p66 Swimmingp67 Mr Fitnessp68 Born to run

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SwimmingOur Abu Dhabi features editor, Adam, has many talents, but swimming isn’t one of them. Finally progressing from an embarrassing doggy paddle, he discovers that swimming lessons aren’t just for kids

ADAM

Living in a country with so many alluring pools, beaches and watersports means a lack of swimming skills is something of a handicap. I can just about paddle up and down a small pool once or twice. Chuck me in the sea, however, and I’ll be shark feed, guaranteed. In fact, I’ve rarely taken to the water since nearly drowning during a primary school swimming session. But far beyond being a survival skill, swimming is also among the best total body workouts available. Doubly good reason to don my swim shorts and goggles, then.

LESSON ONE�e Grand Millennium’s impressive, and thankfully not too enormous, partly open-air, 31st �oor pool is a perfect place to learn, as you can build con�dence while still touching the bottom. A couple of splash-laden front crawl widths later and amiable instructor Youbraj has pinpointed weaknesses to be worked on. Just about everything. A�er patient explanations, I’m soon hitting the water little �ngers �rst in diagonal arm movements with minimum splashing, pulling back for propulsion, my hands brushing my hips, before repeating the process. Breathing techniques are of paramount importance, exhaling through the nose while underwater then li�ing my head sideward just long enough to gulp in oxygen.

LESSON TWOTime to step up a level. I’m told to speed up my front crawl and breathe every four strokes instead of two. Get the breathing wrong – as I frequently do – and my reward is a nose or mouth full of water. �en it’s on to backstroke, and although I �nd not seeing what’s behind my head more daunting than the front crawl, Youbraj is impressed. Practicing �oating on my back is also part of the lesson, but that’s a rare static moment; by the end of the hour I am, to put it politely, cream crackered. My limbs the next morning let me know they’re not entirely happy with my new hobby.

LESSON THREEFirst up is some perfunctory breaststroke – coordinating alternating leg and hand movements is tricky – before it’s time to put everything I’ve learnt into practise, running

through all three strokes. I still have some trouble perfecting the front crawl breathing, forgetting to keep kicking as I gasp for air. I am, however, already beginning to feel the cardiovascular bene�ts and my lung capacity swelling slightly, while just about keeping my skinny frame gliding through the water.

VERDICTI’m still rather of the mindset that if humans were meant to swim they would have evolved �ns. Yet being talked through the mechanics de�nitely instils understanding and belief that countless unaccompanied lengths may never achieve. See you down the deep end. Maybe.

Grand Millennium Al Wahda, Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Abu Dhabi, 7am to 10pm, five lessons Dhs825, ten lessons Dhs1,300, 15 sessions Dhs1,700. Tel: (02) 4439999. www.millenniumhotels.com

MAKE A SPLASHTwo more places to win your water wings

Hiltonia Beach ClubPrivate lessons of 45 minutes for up to two people.Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, 8am to 8pm, one person Dhs220, two people Dhs300. Tel: (02) 6811900. www.hilton.com

Shangri-LaOne-hour private lessons for three people or less, group sessions available for four people or more. Block booking discounts available.Shangri-La, Qaryat Al Beri, Between The Bridges, Abu Dhabi, 6am to 11pm, private lessons Dhs95 to Dhs150, group lessons Dhs100. Tel: (02) 5098777. www.shangri-la.com

How to improve your swimmingExpert Ashley Morris on how to improve your swimming style

Ninety per cent of adults I’ve taught, from basic swimmers to triathletes, have trouble breathing. People hold their breath, inhale and exhale when they bring their head out of the water. You should inhale to the side and blow out slowly under water.

You should have a strong leg kick, and you can practise using a �oat and just kicking your legs

You should breath every three strokes, naturally alternating the turn of your head

Aim for a six speed leg kick, so six kicks for

every two arm strokes, so your body position is nice and high and you get more out of your pull

Over and under the water make sure you have a nice high elbow – the elbow should always be the highest point of the stroke

Start with regular short sessions. The most important thing is to hold your technique. So start at 15 minutes three times a week and build it up to 45 minutes. Start with a long, steady warm up, then do intervals at a higher intensity with short rests, and �nish up with a kick set, using a �oat and kicking your legs only.Hamilton Aquatics, various locations, Dubai, Dhs55 per group session. www.hamiltonaquaticsdubai.com

SPORT & OUTDOOR

THE

EXPERT!

65-68 Sports.indd 66 6/28/11 10:12:37 AM


MR FITNESSMR

is temperature regulation, maintaining an average 37°C. In higher temperatures, the skin absorbs the heat. In order to help keep the body in a normal state, the heart’s oxygen output is diverted via blood �ow to the skin to help dissipate the heat the body is collecting. When oxygen is diverted to another system of the body versus the muscles, a runner has less energy to burn when running. If a runner continues to run at the same pace in these conditions, the heart and lungs have to work hard to try to compensate for the needed oxygen for both systems to work. �is results in early exhaustion. I am not a particularly good swimmer, but I’ve recently started swimming every morning for 15 minutes. What bene�ts will this be having? Melanie, MirdifSwimming is one of those activities that every child should be taught from a very young age, as it can have profound carryovers into later life, especially if sports

Do you have a �tness question for James? E-mail: [email protected]

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THE

EXPERT!

In his seven years as a personal trainer, James Houghton has helped everyone from West End actresses to the Arabian Gulf rugby sevens team lose the pounds and keep in shape

I am a keen runner, training for the New York Marathon in November, but it’s getting a bit hot outside now. Are there any indoor running tracks in Dubai? Benjamin, Dubai Marina I’m afraid the short answer is no, but if you’re keen to keep on running outside the coolest times are when you can avoid direct sunlight, early in the morning and later in the evening. But then you also want to consider the humidity and your ability to recover and rehydrate. A little trick is to weigh yourself before you go running and then again a�er. Take the di�erence in weight, in pounds, and aim to drink 20 �uid ounces for every pound lost. Bear in mind that one of the body’s core functions

are involved. Two of the biggest bene�ts of swimming are the discipline of controlled breathing and improved lung capacity. Couple this with the fact that swimming is one of the only forms of exercise where there is no external load on the body, which means that it is gentle on the joints while still providing resistance.

I have an exercise phobia. I know it will make me healthier, but I just don’t have any motivation. Do you have a cure? Don, Khalidiyah Without threatening you, I don’t have a cure. �ere are many people like you out there who just have no interest in exercising, and that doesn’t mean that you are wrong. I guess your emotional drivers are not su�cient enough to want to make you exercise. Not

taking away from the bene�ts of exercise, because there are many, but you can become healthier through lifestyle changes and habits such as keeping your body clear of toxins that are found in many foods these days and by helping your body recover and regenerate each night by making sure that you get enough sleep. Simple little things can have profound e�ects. A daily quality broad spectrum multivitamin will also help you cover the bases.

65-68 Sports.indd 67 6/28/11 10:12:41 AM

crowneplaza.com

Cool summer payback Beat the heat with Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi’s cool payback offer!

Get AED 25* worth of dining vouchers for every AED 100 spent at any Crowne Plaza restaurant or bar this summer

For reservations call +971 2 6166 122 f&[email protected] * Offer valid until 31st October 2011 * Please see back of Payback voucher for terms and conditions

SPORT & OUTDOOR

Features & food editor Gareth Rees, our resident long distance runner, puts the latest running shoes through their paces

Sports shorts

Born to run

NIKE LUNARECLIPSE+The spiel: Nike claims the shoe is appropriate for all gait types, adapting to an individual’s stride, with the design of the sole ensuring your feet feel “connected to the road”. And the shoe can be used with the Nike+ training aid. How do they look? The handsomest pumps we tested. You’ll be the envy of all the other runners pounding the pavements. The 5km test: It took a couple of short runs to wear them in, but after that they were just right – light and �exible but with good support. Price: Dhs695Nike, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4341201. www.nike.com Nike, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4437396. www.nike.com

SAUCONY TRIUMPH 7 The spiel: Saucony knows how important purchasing the right shoe for your foot shape and running style is. Shock absorption, focused on transferring impact from the heel to the front of the foot, and arch support, are the main selling points. How do they look? These are serious running shoes, beloved of experienced runners, and the design re�ects that fact. The 5km test: Excellent support, and they put an immediate spring in ones’ step. Having run a marathon in Saucony, I can con�rm that they are the real deal. Price: Dhs490Saucony, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3398081Orlando Sports, various locations Abu Dhabi. Tel: (800) 776787

REEBOK ZIGTECH The spiel: Reebok’s ZigTech sole is designed to diminish muscle fatigue and propel you forwards. How do they look? You will either love them or hate them. The chunky zigzag sole is, shall we say, distinctive. Certainly not a trainer for the more traditional runner. The 5km test: The shoe is designed to keep your momentum going forward, and it worked, but the bulk of the trainer makes it rather unwieldy over distance.Price: Dhs425Reebok, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4340606. www.reebok.com Al Jimi Mall, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6964444. www.reebok.com

PUMA FAAS 500 The spiel: Designed for “everyday training”, Puma claims that its BioRide Technology makes the shoes more responsive, leading to a more e�cient stride. How do they look? Nice and bright, Puma has clearly considered aesthetic appeal when developing the new Faas range, and the design of the Faas 500 harks back to classic Puma design. The 5km test: They are lightweight and the sole o�ers respectable cushioning over 5km, but the Faas 500 probably couldn’t take a marathon.Price: Dhs500Puma, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4340204. www.puma.com Puma, Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 6448858. www.puma.com

EXPERT TIPSOur running guru, The Energy Clinic’s Chris Miller, on what to consider when purchasing a new pair of running shoes

Find out what gait you are – how you run, how your foot looks when it hits the ground

Make sure you buy a shoe that is fit for purpose. Ask yourself what you are going to be using the shoes for

If possible, try the shoes out before you commit to purchasing themBuy the best quality shoes for your budget and, rather than just going to a well

known brand, go to a specialist Don’t wear your trainers for too long. If you’re doing a lot of mileage, change them

every three to six months

Summer sports worth sweating for

ALL YOU CAN GOLFPlaying golf in this heat? Madness. Perhaps, but, if you can bare it,

the Arabian Ranches Golf Club is o�ering you

free reign to play as many holes as you like during the week. Prices range from

Dhs145 for Club Members to Dhs255 for non-members. You might want to leave the ludicrously patterned V-neck at home, though.Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Emirates Road, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3663000 www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com

GYM’LL FIX ITIf you still haven’t written o� that new year’s resolution to join a gym (come on, it’s July!), there’s no better time to do it than now. Gri�n Health

Club’s 12 + 3 summer deal gives you three months free when you sign up for annual membership. Dhs3,800 for singles and Dhs6,000 per couple. Shape up, or ship out. Griffin Health Club, JW Marriott Hotel, Deira, Dubai. Tel: (04) 6077755 VIP SPORTSIf you’re looking for a way to prevent your brood from becoming stir crazy this summer, gawp no further than the VIP Sports

Academy’s summer camp. Ideal for youngsters aged �ve to 15, instructors will coach your little darlings in everything from swimming and dodgeball to face painting and team-building exercises. There are even shuttle buses organised, so you don’t need to feel like a taxi service.Al Wasl Sports Club, Dubai, four weeks Dhs1,650 for your first child. Tel: (04) 4467400. www.vipeduc.net


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MUSIC


Stunning live shows, heavy ri�ed tunes and an expertly produced album are conspiring to thrust prog rockers EYE (Empty Yard Experiment) into the international spotlight. �e Dubai band has been on the scene for several years, with an evolving line-up which has lead to Bojan, Mehdi, Kaveh, Gorgin, Sain and Sami coming together from as far as Saudi and Serbia. All six members work together in the lyric and music writing, resulting in a diverse soundscape that, within the constraints

of one album, ranges from measured to the downright raucous. �e contrasting genres and styles somehow work, with soaring methods linking the tracks cohesively. “Communication is the base of our band and music,” insists Gorgin (keys). “�at’s the only way it can work”. Undeniably psychedelic and energetic, we have no doubt EYE’s tracks will be dominating the radiowaves, and your headphones, in the future. www.emptyyardexperiment.com

Stunning live shows, heavy ri�ed tunes and an expertly produced album are conspiring to thrust prog rockers EYE (Empty Yard Experiment) into the international spotlight. �e Dubai band has been on the scene for

of one album, ranges from measured to the downright raucous. �e contrasting genres and styles somehow work, with soaring methods linking the tracks cohesively. “Communication is the base of our band and

EYEBAND

MONTHOF THE

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The pick of local live music this month

Rock beats It’s the age-old question: who rocks harder, rockers or metal-heads? Well, music fans, you might get your answer this month. Bands from all over the Middle East, including Egypt, Iraq and the UAE, will duke it out for two nights at the RAM Battle. �e �rst night will see rock bands competing against each other in front of a panel of judges – with the winner set to meet the best metal act chosen on the following night. �ere can only be one winner.Jul 28 and 29, Cheers Bar, The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, 9pm to 3am, Dhs60. Tel: (050) 9200166. www.metalityuae.com

Three to see

WoodstockOne of our favourite music venues, �e Music Room, is paying tribute to Woodstock this month. �e legendary 1969 festival is considered one of the greatest ever musical events, and the Spirit Of Woodstock evening will see �ve of Dubai's top local bands covering hit songs from the likes of �e Who, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. Right on.Jul 8, The Music Room, Majestic Hotel Tower, Dubai, 6pm to 3am, Dhs50. Tel: (04) 3598888. www.dubaimajestic.com

Revolution JunkiesLocal rock band Revolution Junkies will be joined by the winner of this year's Yas Rock Factory, Danny Shirran, for a one-o� gig this month. Catch the band and the Candian-born Shirran at Cheers Bar, before Shirran sets o� to perform at Yasalam during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix later this year. Jul 15, Cheers Bar, The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dhs60. Tel: (050) 9048559

1/2 AD

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Whats On.pdf 2 26/05/2011 15:27

CLUB DIARY


This month's clubbing highlights

4

7

Moby @ Dubai World Trade Centre

Crystal Waters @ Stereo Sushi

15 Ray Fox @ Armani PrivéRising Dutch DJ Ray Fox has been racking up download hits almost as fast as touring air miles with his energetic brand of electro-kissed house. And he promises exclusive tunes when he hits Dubai for the first time this month…

You were given your first turntables when you were 12. You must have been into music from a very young age?I was always interested in music, this started with Michael Jackson and from then I followed every trend. When I was 12 I was spending my pocket money on vinyl, a lot of house heritage already at my young age.Why did you pick the moniker Ray Fox?My real name is Raymon Vos. Vos is Dutch for ‘fox’ in English. Simple as ABC.Have you met any of your famous namesakes? Megan Fox? Michael J Fox?I’d really like to be friends with Megan Fox. So if she reads this: Megan could you please come to Armani, July 15! You’re playing at Armani Privé in Dubai. Do you wear designer labels?Yes, I like designer clothes. In fact I wear them a lot. When I �nd the time after playing Armani I will de�nitely check out what Dubai has to o�er.One of your biggest tracks is entitled F**k That. Will you play it safe with a censored version in Dubai?I always play for the audience, so if it's possible to play it then you'll hear that one. But of course I will make sure not to o�end anybody.

Holland and Dubai have rather contrasting cultures. What are you expecting?I don’t know, but I have heard many great things about clubbing in Dubai. I will put out some exclusive previews especially for Dubai. All Dubai people: please let me know which tracks will make your night and I will try to make some special bootlegs. My last three bootleg packs got downloaded over 200,000 times, so it would be good to have some Dubai in�uences in the next one.

Armani Privé, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free. Tel: (04) 8883888. www.rayfox.nl

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1WEEKLY

Immaculate Touch @ Al Maya IslandThe regularly packed-out island all-dayer continues into the summer.Al Maya Island, Abu Dhabi, noon to late, Dhs100, ladies free until 2pm. Tel: (055) 6506337. www.immaculatetouchabudhabi.com

Fashion TV International Models PartyGet down with the beautiful people, with proceedings broadcast globally on Fashion TV.Étoiles, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, Dhs100, ladies free. Tel: (02) 6909000. www.etoilesuae.com

Nôze @ Ill CommunicationsHip Parisian pair who have been revitalising house with splinters of electro, techno and warped vocals.Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.myspace.com/nozecircus

2WEEKLY

Arabesque @ ÉtoilesDJ Typhoon drops beats from around the Middle East at Étoiles’ new Arabic night, which also features the visual delight of a belly dancer.Étoiles, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6909000. www.etoilesuae.com

WEEKLYReggae Summer Splash @ Jebel Ali Resort & SpaDon your swimsuit for reggae classics, ragga, dancehall and more from DJ OneJahOh, plus live band Brown Fusion and beach/water sports.Jebel Ali Resort & Spa, Jebel Ali, Dubai, 3pm to midnight, Dhs75 (includes one drink), ladies free, couples free 3pm to 6pm. Tel: (055) 1839208. www.jebelali-international.com

4Moby @ Dubai World Trade CentreMegastar US DJ/producer makes his long-awaited Emirates debut with a full live band in tow.Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 7pm, Dhs200 to Dhs350. Tel: (04) 3913460. www.moby.com

WEEKLYTerminal @ ChiDJ Bobby Rez pilots you through the latest hits and blasts from the past at Chi's regular cabin crew night.Chi @ The Lodge, Old Metha Road, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3379470. www.chinightclubdubai.com

6DJ Rabih @ Yacht ClubThe Yacht Club’s resident drops the tunes, with a live saxophonist (also July 7).Yacht Club, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com

7Crystal Waters @ Stereo SushiThe Gypsy Woman hitmaker closes Stereo Sushi’s season.Sanctuary, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies free before 11pm. Tel: (04) 4260561. www.sanctuarydubai.com

David Craig @ Relax@12The UAE spinner digs out the best in house to get the weekend underway in classy fashion.Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free. Tel: (02) 6545138. www.relaxat12.com

Jeremih @ Étoiles50 Cent and Ludacris-collaborating US R&B star touches down in the UAE.Étoiles, Emirates Palace, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi, 11.30pm to 4am, Dhs100, ladies free. Tel: (02 6909000). www.jeremih.com

WEEKLYFreshly Laced @ Casa LatinaWeekly dose of all things hip hop and funky with the fresh-as-ever residents.Ibis Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road, Barsha, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3996699.

8Essential Mix @ Horizon LoungeSun-kissed dance �oor soundtracks from Da Funct, Nthayi and Charl Chaka, with equally essential air con, barbecue and free pool access (also July 22).Habtoor Grand, JBR, Dubai, 2pm to 2am, free. Tel: (04) 3995000

Cooly G @ Ill CommunicationsThe leading lady of UK funky, and one of the stars of London dubstep-and-beyond label Hyperdub, �ies in to town.Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.myspace.com/coolyg

14Girls Love DJs @ The 400 NightclubThe Dutch DJ brand takes over Dubai for its fortnightly blowout (also July 28).The 400 Nightclub, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 3324900. www.the400nightclub.com

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CLUB DIARY


7Jeremih @ Étoiles

How did you first hit upon the idea of combining electric violin skills with DJing?I was classically trained on the violin since the age of ten. I started to combine it with house music in the late 1990s, where my love for

Cheddar! You’re back! But why just for one month?A few pals persuaded me to come out of hibernation. I thought why not, and gave myself a month of Fridays to see if people still have the appetite for Cheese, even though this is more of a mini Cheddar than a fully-�edged fromage frenzy.OK, so, Rewind – tell us more.It’s called Rewind because it allows me to play songs from the past, whether it’s the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s or beyond – I want to play songs that everyone knows and loves.What’s the difference between this and your Cheese nights?I wanted to broaden my music policy. I'm known for my cheese nights and they are good fun – and I will still throw in some Michael Jackson, Jamiroquai and Journey – but I like the freedom of being able to drop some classic tracks, like some Stone Roses or Paul Weller, in there.

15 Roberto Mermand @ Amnesia

1 Rewind @ Catwalk Club

Having taken cutting edge house beats and his eye-catching electric violin accompaniment around the world this year, multitalented DJ Roberto Mermand is back in his home base for Amnesia. Popular resident Stew Magoo also takes to the decks in support

Roller-skating king of cheese Tim Cheddar – Tim Derry to his postman – has been slicing up Dubai’s disco fromage for more years than he’d care to admit, playing everywhere from Malecon, to Chi to Nasimi Beach, before hanging up his skates for a brief hiatus to concentrate on the promotion side of the nightlife industry. However, for one month only, he is back, every Friday in July, with his pop up retro night, Rewind

electronic music began. It does give the show an extra element of entertainment because the violin is live and I am able to improvise, which gives a fresh and exciting feeling to the music.Do you still have to put in the hours practicing violin even to this day? Like anything, practice makes perfect. It took time, energy and dedication to perfect my instrument. I still put hours in to maintain the skills and be able to improvise to the music I play live. I also play the piano for production purposes and Spanish guitar when putting down chords and melodies for new tracks that I produce. It’s fun and exciting.What are you doing during Ramadan? Sitting tight, touring the world or taking a holiday? I will be away playing in London over

Ramadan and I’ll also be visiting Ibiza and Mykonos.What’s been your favourite show in your globetrotting 2011 so far?Supperclub in London was the most energetic crowd: 700 people bounced o� my energy and created an amazing vibe and atmosphere. It’s also very nice to come back to the home crowds in the UAE where they love the music I play and know what to expect. Relax@12 is high up with my favourite places in the UAE, for the view from the DJ booth and the cool crowd.

Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, 5pm to 3am, free (Dhs130 for unlimited house beverages 8pm to midnight). Tel: (02) 6545138. www.robertomermand.com

We see you're letting people in fancy dress in for free. You love all that, don't you?What can I say? I don‘t take myself too seriously and neither should the crowd. Go in day-glo and brighten the place up. Let’s go retro!What about Cheese – will we see it again? You cheddar believe it! I’ve just got to �nd the right venue. Any savoury suggestions? And finally – you're one of the guys behind the huge Sandance nights. Are you going to let us in on who's booked for the next one? If I told you, I’d have to kill you, then who’d make sure this interview was printed? All will be revealed very soon...

Golden Tulip Hotel, Al Barsha, Dubai, 9pm to 3am, Dhs100, free before 11pm, women free before midnight, fancy dress free all night. Tel: (04) 3417750. www.catwalkdubai.com

DJ Je� @ Yacht ClubThursday night disco-house delights, with added dancers.Yacht Club, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com

15Frozen @ AllureA winter wonderland at the height of summer, with nitro cannons, ice cocktails and more.Allure by Cipriani, Yas Island Yacht Club, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6575400. www.nightcluballure.com

Peevee @ Ill CommunicationsFriday night goes o� with urban sounds from Peevee.Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277

20Mega Weekend @ Yacht ClubResident DJ Rabih and dancers jumpstart the weekend before it’s barely started (also July 21).Yacht Club, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Bainouna Street, Abu Dhabi, 7pm to 1am, free. Tel: (02) 6666888. www.ichotelsgroup.com

22Stay With Me @ Armani PrivéMonthly instalment of future and upfront beats in lofty surrounds.Armani Privé, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 8883888. dubai.armanihotels.com

Sascha Drive @ Ill CommunicationsDetroit-in�uenced dance-�oor science from German DJ/producer, who runs the Deep Vibes label.Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.saschadive.de

27Nu-Disquo @ RepubliqueIndie-electro from DJ Ridz at this monthly ladies night, with free bubbly for the lasses.The Address, Dubai Mall, Dubai, 8pm to 3am, free. Tel: (050) 4880876. www.clubrepublique.com

28Closing White Party @ AllureAllure closes its season before Ramadan in blinding white and UV light-bathed style.Allure by Cipriani, Yas Island Yacht Club, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, 10pm to 4am, free. Tel: (02) 6575400. www.nightcluballure.com

29Loaded @ Casa LatinaIndie, pop and rock gems from the See You Next Friday conspirators.Ibis Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, free. Tel: (055) 8825675. www.facebook.com/seeyounextfriday

Art Department @ Ill CommunicationsKenny Glasgow, from critically acclaimed Canadian techno/house project Art Department.Trilogy, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, 10pm to 3am, Dhs100 to Dhs130, ladies free until 11pm. Tel: (050) 7258277. www.facebook.com/artdepartmentmusic

WEEKLY

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TRAVEL


Reading between the linesIn the Middle Ages, fat-bellied traders rolled books into Frankfurt in barrels, displaying them on street stalls in the city's �rst literary marketplace. Five hundred years on, streets stalls have turned into 7,000 exhibition stands, and booksellers and writers from 100 countries arrive to promote their wares to some 300,000 visitors and journalists.

Held in mid-October, the Frankfurt Book Fair is the most important annual event for the international book trade: a place to network and do publishing deals, while a swarm of publishers, book agents, translators, multi-media buyers and �lm producers hunt for the latest in literature

�ere is no better time for bookworms to head to Frankfurt, whose literary, cultural and other charms have moved it well beyond its once staid reputation for banks, big business and an enormous airport. �is has become Germany's latest cool destination, with sassy up-market dining and hedonistic nightclubbing, from a thumping techno scene to ni�y jazz bars and backslapping cider taverns.

Of course, a late-night techno rave mightn't be a cultural form appreciated by booklovers. Perhaps there's enough buzz from a visit to the Book Fair on open days, when the public gets a chance to browse and meet their favourite authors. You might also want to visit the historic Paulskirche, the church where the modern fair was relaunched a�er the Second World War. It still hosts its most signi�cant event, the ceremony for the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, whose previous winners include renowned writers Orhan Pamuk, Susan Sontag, Chinua Achebe and Václav Havel.

�e Book Fair isn't the only literary distinction for Frankfurt, however. In 1749, the birth of a little boy called Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in a middle-class familu in the old town gave the city another enduring claim to

For bookworms, the German city of Frankfurt is the only place to be this October

“FRANKFURT IS GERMANY’S LATEST COOL DESTINATION, WITH UP-MARKET DINING,HEDONISTIC NIGHTCLUBBING, A THUMPING TECHNO SCENE, JAZZ BARS AND TAVERNS”

Reading between LONGHAUL

The Ignatz-Bubis Bridge over the River Main at Frankfurt

The historic Paulskirche, which hosts one of the Frankfurt Book Fair's leading events

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TRAVEL | FRANKFURT

NEED TO KNOWGETTING THEREEmirates �ies direct Dubai to Frankfurt. www.emirates.com

WHERE TO STAY Mövenpick Hotel Frankfurt City. www.moevenpick-hotels.com or Hilton Frankfurt Hotel www1.hilton.com

MORE INFORMATION Tourismus + Congress Frankfurt. www.frankfurt-tourismus.de, Frankfurt Book Fair. www.frankfurt-book-fair.com

BOOKED UPOther major book fairs include Abu Dhabi International Book Fair and Bologna Book Fair in March, London Book Fair and Buenos Aires International Book Fair in April, New York-based Book Expo America (June), Tokyo International Book Fair (July) and Beijing International Book Fair in September.

literary fame. In the writing room on the third �oor, literary pilgrims admire the desk where Goethe wrote �e Sorrows Of Young Werther and the �rst manuscript of Faust, which turned him into a giant of European literature.

Goethe apart, the house is worth visiting just for the insight it gives into middle-class life in 18th-century Frankfurt, with rooms furnished in the styles of the time from sedate neoclassical to baroque and later, rather dizzying, rococo.

You could do worse than leap from the pages into some other arts while in Frankfurt, since its riverside arts precinct shows what can happen when a city devotes ten per cent of its budget to culture. Here, some of the best museums in Europe showcase everything from �lm history to architecture, Impressionism to ancient civilisations. �e Deutsches Filmmuseum is particularly fascinating – you can see how the special e�ects in the original King Kong movie were achieved – while the Liebieghaus features sculptures spanning 5,000 years. From Sumerian statuettes to Egyptian funerary reliefs and medieval Madonnas, every piece is little short of perfection.

�e River Main that �ows past these museums also leads booklovers to more literary discoveries. Out on the riverbanks lies Gerbermühle, where Goethe stayed for a month in 1815 while in his 60s, falling in love with a young woman named Marianne von Willemer and immortalising her in poetry. Now you can sit under the chestnut trees and contemplate Frankfurt's skyscrapers as swans paddle about.

As you meander upriver, the city gives way to farmland and medieval villages before the Main joins the mighty Rhine some 40km away. �is strategic trading location is presided over by the town of Mainz, a perfect literary day

trip from Frankfurt. It was in Mainz in 1456 that Johannes Gutenberg built the �rst printing machine using moveable type, revolutionising written communication.

At the Gutenberg Museum, sta� demonstrate type founding, typesetting and printing on a recreated Gutenberg press. When the quality of the printed page is revealed, audiences gasp in surprise. But the highlight is two original Gutenberg Bibles, multi-million-dollar treasures of printing to which have been added beautiful hand-drawn illuminations in marvellous colours.

A�erwards, you could do worse than lose yourself among the alleyways of Mainz's old town, where a fairytale of half-timbered buildings huddle around a vast Romanesque cathedral. Old men mumble on riverside promenades and schoolkids scu�e as they wait for trams. With books tucked under their arms, they're a living reminder of this region's literary heritage, and the continuing power of the printed word.

Visitors in Hall 3 of the Frankfurt Book Fair

Statue of Gutenberg near the Romanesque cathedral in Mainz

Cafés along the banks of the river Mainin Frankfurt, with Main Tower andCommerzbank Tower in the background

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TRAVEL | TRAVELS WITH...

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa’s general manager Arne Silvis lives for the outdoors. The Cape Town native’s CV has seen him work as a guide through white water rapids, luxury mobile safaris and game reserves

Travels with…Arne Silvis

Al Maha Desert Resort &

“I never travel without enough cash in small denominations; it always comes in handy”

PEACEFUL PHUKETPhuket boasts glorious beaches, welcoming locals and great cuisine, but it’s also extremely popular, drawing hordes of tourists all year round. Fortunately, the luxury secluded location of the Trisara resort on the quiet north-western coastline allows you to escape the crowds and, even better, is o�ering four nights for the price of three, including massages and breakfast for just Dhs3,965 per person. Bliss.Until Oct 31, Dnata Travel, Dubai, from Dhs3,965. Tel: 8008118. www.dnataholidays.com

MALAYSIAN VACATIONConsidering its postcard beaches, untouched rainforest and year-round perfect weather, it is amazing that Malaysia’s Langkawi islands are still considered an insider secret. Book now and get a four-night stay with breakfast at the Datai Langkawi resort, �ights and

transfers for a tidy Dhs6,476 per person.

Until Aug 31, Emirates Holidays, Dubai, from Dhs6,476. Tel: 8005252. www.emirates-holidays.com

CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUEYou’re a fan of the freebie, right? Well then. be prepared to �ll your boots at Anantara’s Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort this summer. The Abu Dhabi luxury resort is o�ering ‘complimentary credit’ for every night booked, which you can use to purchase food, spa treatments, camel trekking, kayaking near Sir Bani Yas island and all manner of other goods and services. Until Aug 31, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, Abu Dhabi, from Dhs1,100 per person per night. Tel: (02) 8862088. www.qasralsarab.anantara.com


manner of other goods and services.

beaches, welcoming locals and great cuisine, but it’s also extremely

CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUEYou’re a fan of the freebie, right? Well then. be prepared to �ll your boots at Anantara’s Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort this summer.

transfers for a tidy Dhs6,476 per person.

Until Aug 31, Emirates Holidays, Dubai, from Dhs6,476. Tel: 8005252. www.emirates-holidays.com

Take a bargain break

of active volcanoes. �ree weeks passed in one big blur of utter amazement.What has been your biggest travel disaster?Everyone has missed �ights, trains and other forms of transport at some point on their travels, but I don’t really view these negatively – these things happen. My attitude is what ultimately determines whether an event or incident was disastrous or not. Whenever I am met with some bad news, I remain optimistic, keep myself entertained and simply make alternative plans.If you could advise people to visit one destination what would it be?New Zealand’s South Island. What a spectacular part of the world. �e scenery is absolutely picture perfect, most of the wilderness areas are completely unspoilt and untouched, it is easy to get around, exceptionally safe, and there is plenty to do in the line of adventure.

What’s the best holiday you have ever had? I am lucky to have travelled to more than 50 countries, but I think Costa Rica just about takes the prize. �ere are so many things to do, river ra�ing, mountain climbing, forest canopy tours, horse riding in the jungles or simply enjoying the hot springs in the foothills

What are your top tips for surviving a long airport stopover? Patience is key. Being able to shut o� from the world around you, and with iPad and Kindles there is absolutely no reason to be bored. I also recommend storing luggage at the airport and exploring whatever lies outside. And don’t forget to travel with comfortable shoes and clothing.What do you never travel without?�e nature of a particular vacation determines what goes along or what stays behind. But the essentials for any trip regardless are comprehensive travel insurance, hardcopies of all travel documents, and also an extra passport copy stowed in a safe place. I never travel without enough cash in small denominations; it always comes in handy.Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai. Tel: (04) 8329900. www.al-maha.com

Travels with…Arne Silvis

TRAVEL EXTRA

77 TravelsWith.indd 77 6/28/11 10:25:03 AM

Win with What’s On


WIN! A BLACKBERRY PLAYBOOK Apple-lovers beware, there’s a new tablet on the block. The 64GB BlackBerry PlayBook has a 7” screen, is packed with features (including a camera), supports apps, has a USB port and is, all in all, an absolute pleasure to use. What’s On has teamed up with regional online retailer Aido.com to give away a PlayBook to one lucky reader. For your chance to win a slice of cutting edge gadgetry, simply tell us…What does AIDO stand for?a) All I Do Onlineb) Any Intelligent Dudes Online?c) All I Do Offside

WIN! A STAY FOR TWO AT THE TILAL LIWA HOTELSituated on the edge of the vast Rub Al Khali desert, the Tilal Liwa Hotel makes for a majestic hideaway, complete with stunning views. We have teamed up with the resort to o�er one lucky winner a night’s stay for two people in a deluxe room, including breakfast and access to the impressive facilities. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or exploring the desert with a 4x4 safari, this trip guarantees an unforgettable weekend away from the bright city lights.For your chance to win, simply tell us…What is the Rub Al Khali desert also know as?a) The empty halfb) The empty quarterc) The empty whole

TO ENTER

THESE COMPETITIONS,

SIMPLY E-MAIL

[email protected]

WITH YOUR ANSWER,

AND THE NAME OF PRIZE IN THE

SUBJECT LINE

79 Comps_Tilal/BB.indd 79 6/28/11 10:27:01 AM

Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas IslandYas Plaza, Yas Island, P.O. Box 93725Abu Dhabi, United Arab [email protected]/hotel-abudhabi

02 656 2000radissonblu.com

WHAT’S ON: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek206mm x 270mm

Meet with family and friends in the Radisson Blu Ramadan Tent where you can sample a special Sohour menu and enjoy a wide choice of shisha. Relax while an oud player entertains with traditional music or you catch up with the day by

Assymetri Iftar BuffetEnjoy an extensive buffet of traditional Arabic and international dishes, along with a selection of Ramadan juices for only AED 99* per person.

Corporate Iftar EventsA feast of Arabic and international cuisine and juices, including telecast of the Iftar program, starting from only AED 125*.SPECIAL OFFER: Book before the end of July and take advantage of a 15% discount!*Subject to 16% service and tourism charges.

Ramadan Nightsat Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island

Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas IslandYas Plaza, Yas Island, P.O. Box 93725Abu Dhabi, United Arab [email protected]/hotel-abudhabi

THE HOTLIST

JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 81JULY 2011 WHAT’S ON 81

p83 Barsp87 Restaurantsp91 Brunchesp95 Spas

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81 HOT LIST OPENER.indd 81 6/28/11 10:29:28 AM

Nominations for the ADCB Ambition Award are now open. To enter, simply log in to www.emirateswomanawards.com and tell us (in 500 words or less) your greatest entrepreneurial or community improvement ambition and what you are doing to achieve it. The winner will receive USD10,000, a place on an INSEAD Key Management Challenge course part of INSEAD’s Global Executive MBA at Abu Dhabi campus and AED2,000 worth of shopping vouchers to spend in BurJuman Mall, Dubai. Nominations close on the 15th August 2011. For terms and conditions, visit emirateswomanawards.com.

www.adcb.com | www.insead.edu | www.facebook.com/emirateswomanmagazine

STOP DREAMING ABOUT MAKING A DIFFERENCE AND START BELIEVING. WHAT COULD USD10,000 DO FOR YOUR AMBITION?

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adcb ambition awards ad - wo.pdf 6/29/11 8:59:39 AM

NOVEMBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 83

THE HOT LISTBARS

THE FINEST FOR BEVERAGES

AND BITES


AND BITES


AND BITES

Seriously slick, with that ellusive 'city' quality. Glass, dark woods and a lounge full of low-slung sofas.

The beating heart of DIFC, Zuma is a �ash of personality in this concrete jungle.

Zuma’s bar may be a lounge, but it’s far from casual, so don your �nest threads or feel foolish.

It ain't cheap, but if you pay peanuts you get monkeys. Which is our way of saying that it's worth the extra dirhams.

Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, Fri to Wed noon to 2am, Thurs noon to 3am. Tel: (04) 4255660. www.zumarestaurant.com

Ideal for low pro�le mid-week drinks, and uptempo fun come Thursday night.

The resort is a lone wolf at this end of Beach Road, but Boudoir, Sho Cho and Malecon are close to Loca for further partying.

Casual get togethers at a table with your very own beer tap. Hassle-free rounds. The Mexican-style bar food is also a treat.

Average prices, but check out the Monday night o�er with ribs and a pint for Dhs65.

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Beach Road, Jumeirah, Dubai, noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 3461111. www.dxbmarine.com

Banging. Private glass-fronted plunge pools, cabanas with their own music, VIPs galore and a crazy crowd.

It's an open-air beach bar, but with plunge pools and new roof you'll be able to enjoy XL all summer long.

Mingling with models (Fashion TV is there some Fridays) and hearing good tunes. Wednesdays see DJ Kristian Valdini take to the decks.

Best to club in with your mates and get a table – it will work out about the same as trips to the bar and looks more impressive.

, Habtoor Grand, Dubai Marina, Dubai, noon to 3am. Tel: (056) 6406161. www.grandjumeirah.habtoorhotels.com

Great for after-work drinks, Caramel is buzzing throughout the week, but a bit quieter on Fridays when DIFC-dwellers stay away from their o�ces.

Avoid the outdoors and stick with the slick, dark interior where there's tru�e oil in the air and drinks �owing.

The menu is fantastic, so book a table and turn drinks into dinner.

De�nitely on the pricey side, especially the food, but drinks are fairly standard for this part of town.

Building 3, DIFC, Dubai, 11am to 2am. Tel: (04) 4256677. www.carameldubai.com

Packed, both mid-week and come the weekend, with a fun-loving expat crowd.

At the moment, this is JLT's only watering hole (hence the crowds).

Rowdy fun and a good Irish fry-up. Our advice? Have rowdy fun, then go back for breakfast the next morning.

Very decent indeed, and there's a well-priced Friday brunch (Dhs99 for a main meal and three drinks).

McGettigan's, The Bonnington, JLT, Dubai, 12.30pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 3560600. www.mcgettigansdubai.com

1Zuma

2Loca

3XL Beach Club

4Caramel

5McGettigan’s

DJ Adrien has quite the fan club, and it's easy to see (and hear) why.

Decent tunes, an urban design and the laid-back crowd make for good times.

There are some top bar snacks, with lollipop chicken and mini lobster tacos on the menu.

The massive tent is tricked out with enough AC to keep penguins comfortable.

ATMOSPHERE LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO


The log-lined walls and forest photography raise the bar for pub decor. Thumbs up.

Jetty LoungeCaramel Zuma

83-95 HOT LIST DXB.indd 83 6/28/11 10:38:25 AM

BARS

You can't get moved in here on ladies' night (Tuesday), but it's more civilised later in the week.

The Westin, so there's Senyar across the lobby if you want to mix it up a bit.

The ladies' night is epic, with a choice of drinks on o�er for the fairer sex, and a choice of ladies on o�er for the chaps.

Oeno's wine list is impressive, with some very pricey numbers on there, but there are some decent bottles for a decent price, too.

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh Road, Dubai, Sat to Thurs 6pm to 2am, Fri 4pm to 2am. Tel: (04) 3994141. www.starwoodhotels.com

The Gramercy has shrugged o� its sports bar image, and is now more NYC bar, with a French twist. Live music nights keep it bustling.

At the heart of DIFC, it's busy with business lunches, post-work drinks and late Thursday night con�abs. Expect people to be suited and booted.

The quality bar food sets it apart from the slew of other bars. And it has a great independent feel, too.

Not cheap, but the ingredients are of a high quality, food portions are massive and the bar service is speedy.

Unit 7, Level 2, Building 3, DIFC, noon to midnight. Tel: (04) 4377511. www.thegramercybar.com

It's too sticky for the terrace now, so retire to the wooden pews and bustling bar inside. We love the Victorian tiles, vintage signage and European feel.

Don’t dismiss Festival Centre as the land of IKEA, the BBC is king of a huge swathe of new bars and restaurants in this part of town.

If you’re in the mood for some European charm, this is the only pub to go to.

There’s a Monday night all you can eat moules and beer a�air for Dhs199. Bargain Belgian.

Crowne Plaza Festival City, Dubai, Sun to Mon 6pm to 2am, Tue to Wed noon to 2am, Thurs and Fri noon to 3am. Tel: (04) 7012222. www.ichotelsgroup.com

If there's a big match or sports event on the big screen, then you can expect every booth and bar stool to be taken.

Right on The Walk, this new addition is giving the sports fans of JBR what they want.

Even if your team of choice isn't in action, the pool table and sticky ribs are reason enough to pay West Beach a visit. Excellent onion rings, too.

Fair, and there's a mid-week happy hour from 6pm to 9pm where selected drinks are half price. Score. Sorry.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun to Wed 6pm to 2am, Thurs to Sat noon to 2am. Tel: (04) 4498888

The beachside cabanas are out of action, but inside is still attracting a cool crowd with its white decor and blue neon.

Check out the sea views; Jetty Lounge is right on the sands at the original One&Only.

Chilled out drinks, sophisticated sundowners and incredibly tasty tapas.

The cocktails are pricey, but worth it. All in all, this place isn't cheap but it's so high quality you won't begrudge the bill.

One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 2pm to late. Tel: 904) 399999

6Oeno

7The Gramercy

8Belgian Beer

Café

9West Beach

Bistro & Sports Lounge

10Jetty Lounge

Beware the glass staircase if you're in heels: we've witnessed some spectacular tumbles.

Check out the new jazz-themed a la carte Friday brunch for a top, tuneful feed.

There's a new Friday brunch that includes a bucket of beers for Dhs199.

A cracking brunch, decent deals and a spectacular drinks list mean we’re regulars.


Watch it shoot back up the hot list when the weather cools down. We can't resist those cabanas.

ATMOSPHERE LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

BlendsThe Gramercy

HOT ON THE HEELS

11 Blends, The Address Dubai Marina

12 Nezesaussi Grill, Al Manzil Hotel

13 Neos, The Address Downtown

Dubai Mall

14 Armani/Prive, Armani Hotel

15 Senyar, The Westin12 NEZESAUSSI GRILLNezesaussi Grill is a sporty sanctuary, boasting big screens and big portions. The walls might be lined with memorabilia, but Nezesaussi has pleny to appeal to the sport averse, too. It’s a grown-up spot with good service and a first-rate pub menu.Al Manzil Hotel, Old Town, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 6pm to 2am, Fri and Sat noon to2am. Tel: (04) 4285888. www.southernsunme.com


THE HOT LIST

MARCH 2010 WHAT’S ON 87

Securing a booking might be a problem – The Ivy is the talk of the town after its long-awaited June opening.

A beautiful restaurant. The designers have done wonders, creating an environment that allows you to forget you're in a mall.

See our verdict on page 34.

With the arrival of The Ivy, and Hakkasan opening in November, Emirates Towers is squaring up to restaurant hub DIFC.

We managed to enjoy three courses for around Dhs550 (sans booze), but you could certainly spend more.

The Ivy, The Boulevard, Emirates Towers, Dubai, noon to 3pm, 6.30pm to 11pm, bar to 2am. Tel: (04) 3198767. www.theivy.ae

Always busy. The Ivy might be the new kid on the block, but LPM has lost none of its lustre. All serious food lovers will book a table at both.

With plenty of natural light and a cream colour scheme, it's ideal for a long summer lunch.

We enjoyed some incredible lamb last time we dined at LMP. Also try the superb lobster and the lovely salt cod croquettes.

DIFC. Which, boasting two of our top three restaurants, remains the beating heart of the Dubai dining scene, for now.

If you're not prepared to drop more than Dhs1,000 on a proper meal for two, LPM isn't for you.

DIFC, Gate Village 8, Dubai, Sun to Fri noon to 2.30pm and 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4390505. www.lpmdubai.ae

Still as popular as ever, Zuma is never likely to be lacking custom. The upstairs bar is perfect for a chilled tipple or two.

Sleek, bright and contemporary. It's one of the more inspiring restaurant spaces in Dubai.

It's rare that Zuma makes a mistake. Order the wagyu tenderloin from the robata grill menu or the delicious veal.

Less than 100 metres from LPM, within walking distance of The Ivy. It can only be one place – DIFC.

Spending less than Dhs1,000 for two is not really an option, unless you're not really hungry.

Building 6, DIFC, Sat to Thurs 12.30pm to 3pm, Sat to Wed 7pm to midnight, Thurs and Fri 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 4255660. www.zumarestaurant.com

It's �ne dining with a friendly face. Indego has none of the usual stu�ness associated with high end eating.

A winding stairway leading to a warm and welcoming restaurant. Too hot for the terrace, unfortuantely.

Indego serves the best Indian food in Dubai. And we're happy to go fork to fork with anyone who says otherwise.

In the heart of Dubai Marina, Vineet Bhatia's place is certainly at the right end of town.

After you've eaten chef John Sinjobi's food the Dhs900 (without alcohol) bill won't bother you in the slightest.

Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3176000. www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

Verre sometimes lacks a buzz due to its silly location, but it's still on every foodie's favourites list.

The chefs table and the semi open (it's visible through a glass door) kitchen have improved what isn't an ideal space.

The spring/summer menu from one of the most talented kitchens in town is spot on. Order the paprika smoked salmon.

Gordon. Are you listening? Move Verre out of Deira and head for the bright lights just up SZR. Now, please.

Dhs395 for three courses, Dhs495 for six courses. For the chef’s table it’s Dhs695, with wine pairings Dhs350 to Dhs600.

Hilton Dubai Creek, Sun to Fri, 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 2277550. www.gordonramsay.com

1The Ivy

2La Petite

Maison

3Zuma

4Indego by

Vineet

5Verre

It's on every foodie's lips this month. If you're going to visit one restaurant in July, make it The Ivy.

Falling to second is no re�ection on LPM's star status.

Competition is tough from the likes of Okku and Nobu, but Zuma is still the best Japanese in this town.

If you want to eat Indian – eat Indego by Vineet.

RESTAURANTS

THE ELITE

OF THE EATING OUT

SCENE

ATMOSPHERE INTERIOR FOOD LOCATION PRICE INFOWHAT’S ON SAYS...

Rivington GrillLa Petite Maison


If you've never been to Verre, now is the time to sample chef Scott Price's team at their very best.


With the terrace o� limits due to the heat, all of RG's loyal diners have to �ght it out for tables indoors. Book ahead.

Clean, bright and white, with chalkboards displaying the delicious daily specials and a buzzing open kitchen.

The Riv is embracing summer with some lighter dishes. Try the heritage tomato bruschetta and crab salad.

RG put Old Town on the culinary map. Now The Ivy is open, look out for new branches coming soon.

Around Dhs400 for two, but on weekdays you can enjoy two courses at lunchtime for Dhs80, or three for Dhs100.

Souk Al Bahar, Level 3, Old Town, Dubai, noon to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4230903. www.rivingtongrill.ae

Gary's original Dubai outpost has many, many fans. If you're thinking of a Thursday or Friday evening visit, book ahead.

It’s very, very white, but the extremely comfortable chairs add a touch of colour here and there and there’s a tiny glimpse of the kitchen.

Chef Paul Lupton is a quiet but exceedinly talented man. Order the seared tempura scallops.

Dubai Marina, or the Gary Rhodes Marina as it will have to be renamed if he opens any more restaurants in the vicinity.

Dhs800 for two. Not at all bad.

Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Mon to Sat 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3998888. www.garyrhodes.com

Diners will be well dressed, well mannered and well prepared for a sprecial meal. Maitre d' Dennis brings a friendly feel to proceedings.

Tucked away on its own �oor, Re�ets' design is almost regal. And maybe a little bit camp.

Challenging food from an always inventive kitchen that has learned well from master Michelin starred chef Pierre Gagnaire.

Re�ets has its own private elevator at the the InterCon DFC– an area vying to be a culinary hot spot.

You're talking well over Dhs1,000 for dinner. But the taster menu is Dhs550, and the business lunch is a bargain at Dhs180.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 7pm to 1am. Tel: (04) 7011128. www.ichotelsgroup.com

The outside seating and the nearby bar, The Terrace, are no-nos during the summer, but we're con�dent Traiteur will remain busy.

The vaulted ceiling and the open kitchen make Traiteur one of the most memorable restaurants in town.

Try the sea bass with asparagus, green peas and glazed morels.

Park Hyatt. A true destination hotel with endless appeal. See our verdict on the afternoon tea in Eating Out (p38).

The degustation menu is Dhs375 for four courses and co�ee. For a la carte you’re talking around Dhs650 for two.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3172222. www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

For the real Argentinean spirit, book a table on Sunday – tango night.

There's a superb view of the Burj through the window if you pick the right table.

For meat eaters only. Try the lamb rack or slow-cooked veal brisket.

Downtown Burj Khalifa, and you could hit the Burj with a �rmly thrown steak.

Around Dhs700 for two.

The Palace – The Old Town, Downtown Dubai, 7pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 4287888. www.theaddress.com

6Rivington Grill

7Rhodes

Mezzanine

8Reflets

Par Pierre Gagnaire

9Traiteur

10Asado

The Ivy has arrived, but we still love its little brother.

If you're a fan of Gary Rhodes, you'll be a fan of Rhodes Mezzanine.

A long lunch during the week is a must during the lazy summer months.

Chef Franck Detrait imparts his local knowledge in Salaam this month. Check it out (p8).

PRICE INFOWHAT’S ON SAYS...

RESTAURANTS

ATMOSPHERE INTERIOR FOOD LOCATION PRICE INFOWHAT’S ON SAYS...

HOT ON THE HEELS

11Rare, Desert Palm

12 Rhodes Twenty10, Le Royal Méridien

Beach Resort & Spa

13 The Rib Room, Emirates Towers

14 Okku, The Monarch

15 Amala, Zabeel Saray

The Rib roomRe�ets Par Pierre Gagnaire

13 THE RIB ROOMThe Rib RoomReopened just a couple of months ago after renovation, The Rib Room is a solid, reliable steakhouse and stands out in a town overun with purveyors of animal flesh. Order the steak tartar, prepared to your liking tableside, before tucking in to a giant rib wearing one of the restaurant’s fetching rib bibs. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Hotel Tower, Dubai, Sun to Thurs 12.30pm to 2.30pm, daily 7pm to 11pm. Tel: (04) 3198088. www.jumeirah.com


It's the closest your going to get to Argentina without enduring a long �ight.


Managed by Danat Hotels & Resorts, a Division of National Corporation for Tourism & HotelsPO Box 112723, Abu Dhabi, UAE | T. +971 2 894 6111 | F. +971 2 894 6112 | [email protected] | www.danathotels.com

Experience the true Arabian desert and explore the unspoiled landscape of the majestic Rub Al Khali Desert. Enjoy a thrilling desert safari adventure, dune bashing or visit a camel farm, heritage forts and date plantations.

Built in traditional style, the hotel is a retreat for those seeking a unique desert experience and the true spirit of Arabia.

Everyday stopovers Dhs. 499* for a desert view room including buffet breakfast, a visit to a traditional camel farm and race track, one hour bicycle ride, kite flying, free access to steam and sauna, and 15% discount on food, soft drinks and laundry.

PERFECT SUMMER GETAWAY

*Rate is subject to 10% service charge & 6% tourism fee. Double or Single Occupancy. Valid for UAE/GCC residents only from 1 June until the end of August 2011. 2 children below 12 years can share parent’s room at no charge. Children between 6-12 years have 50% discount on meals. Payment by credit card or cash only. Rooms are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

THE HOT LIST

Al Qasr is all about large groups of people having a very good time indeed.

The choice is truly mind boggling – from seafood to steak and everything in between – and it's all absolutely top notch.

The outside is o� limits for summer, but the three indoor restaurants should provide plenty of space to revel in.

Any fewer than four people and you would feel swamped, so keep it for special occasions, or visiting friends and family.

At Dhs495, it’s not cheap, but it’s worth every �l in our book.

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Al Qasr, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3666730. www.jumeirah.com

It's everything you would expect from brunch in a French brasserie – sophistication, classy threads, champagne and a live jazz band.

Enter the kitchen where you can choose from a plethora of French classics freshly made by the chefs.

It is the Dubai restaurant best suited to brunch. Spacious, well designed and full of sunlight.

Celebrating something important with somebody special. Or simply enjoying some excellent French food.

Up to you – Dhs375 sans booze, Dhs450 with wine and beer, Dhs595 with bubbly and Dhs1,998 with a limo pick up.

It's a the pricier end of the spectrum, but Traiteur never disappoints.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

As you would expect from Zuma, it's relaxed but incredibly well populated.

The best Japanese food in Dubai, from sushi and sashimi to the more substantial dishes on the a la carte menu.

DIFC is the ideal location for anyone travelling from either end of town.

Good food is best shared as far as Zuma is concerned, with everyone encouraged to tuck into numerous small servings.

Kitsu (no alcohol) Dhs315, Kowaku Dhs425 (with alcohol) and Kyasha (with champers) Dhs550.

Building 6, DIFC, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 4255660. www.zumarestaurant.com

With a view of the hotel guests splashing about in the pool and a jazz guitarist strumming away, there's a real holiday spirit.

A sumptuous seafood bu�et, tandoori and pizza ovens, roast beef and Yorkshire pud and a dangerous dessert station.

Pop downstairs to sports bar West Beach Bistro to catch the latest live sporting action.

At Dhs299 for the basic package, it's a good brunch for a bunch of buddies.

Dhs299 with house beverages, Dhs399 with Cattier champagne, Dhs455 with Moet and Dhs499 with Veuve.

At just Dhs350, The Talk de�nitely walks the walk.

Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 4498888. www.moevenpick-hotels.com

Relaxed with a nice soundtrack played at just the right volume – not so loud you can't talk, but not too quiet, either.

Commendable sushi and sashimi, and the BBQ platter served to your table will ensure you don't go hungry.

A designer hotel in the world's tallest building. That should do it, no?

Enjoying the Burj without braving the heights.

Dhs290 with soft drinks, Dhs380 with house beverages. Dhs585 with spirits and half a bottle of Bollinger.

Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai, noon to 3.30pm. Tel: (04) 8883444. www.dubai.armanihotels.com

1Al Qasr

2Traiteur

3Zuma

4The Talk

5Armani/Hashi

After all these years, a visit to the Al Qasr brunch is still a must at least once every few months.

We could eat at Traiteur every day and never become bored.

A value for money brunch that doesn't skimp on quality.

It's the full on Zuma experience, but earlier in the day and for longer. Bonus.

BRUNCHES

OUR PICK

OF THE BRUNCH BUNCH


Location, location, location. And some pretty good Japanese food, too.

ATMOSPHERE FOOD LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE INFOWHAT’S ON SAYS...

Al Qasr Armani/Hashi


6Toshi

7The Grand Grill

8The Observatory

9Thai Kitchen

10Belgian Beer Cafe

PRICE INFOWHAT’S ON SAYS...

BRUNCHES

ATMOSPHERE FOOD LOCATION BEST FOR PRICE INFOWHAT’S ON SAYS...

HOT ON THE HEELS

11 Anise, InterContinental DFC

12 Warehouse, Le Méridien Dubai

13 Latitude, Jumeirah Beach Hotel

14 Fazaris, The Address

Downtown Dubai

15 Spectrum On One,

Fairmont Dubai

Spectrum On OneBelgian Beer Cafe

15 SPECTRUM ON ONEOne of Dubai’s most established and popular Friday brunches, Spectrum On One has its very own windowless floor – ideal for escaping the summer heat. It also has eight kitchens serving Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Middle Eastern, European and Thai dishes. Plus a cheese and port room and oysters aplenty. Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, noon to 3pm, Dhs550 with champagne, Dhs395 with house beverages, Dhs295 without alcohol. Tel: (04) 4068999

Busier than your average restaurant, but this evening brunch is more focused on the food than the drink.

Friday is Asian Night, so it's sushi, dim sum, soup and grilled meats made to order. That should �ll your hungry belly.

Hidden away on the 18th �oor of the Grand Millennium hotel with a bar just next door for post-10pm drinks.

It's cheaper than going out to dinner, so it's ideal for meeting up with a big group of friends.

A very reasonable. Dhs195.

Grand Millennium Dubai, Tecom, Al Barsha, Dubai, 7pm to 10pm. Tel: (04) 4299999

The Grand Grill is becoming one of the most popular spots to brunch in town, because of its laid-back attitude and chatty sta�.

Buckets of beer and huge plates of meat delivered to your table, and plenty of sides and salads.

Dubai Marina, leaving you plenty of options if you want to carry on the party post-brunch.

Birthdays, hen parties, stag dos, that kind of thing. Fun, essentially.

A bargain at Dhs295 with alcohol or Dhs225 without.

Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Lobby level, Dubai Marina, Dubai, 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3994221. www.thegrandgrill.com

Long tables �lled with groups of friends and cosy booths for couples means it can be as lively, or as relaxed, as you like.

Several a la carte options and bu�ets. The carvery was a treat, but the lack of port could be an issue for cheese lovers.

The Marriott is slap bang in the middle of Dubai Marina. Pick out your next stop from the 52nd-�oor view.

Quite simply, the view. Looking down on the Marina, Palm Island and the Arabian Gulf from your lofty perch is awe-inspiring.

Dhs350 without alcohol, Dhs450 with, so it's not the cheapest brunch around.

The sta� are lovely, and the mojito and martini trolley is an inspired idea. Every brunch should have one.

Marriott Harbour Hotel, Dubai Marina, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3194795. www.marriott.com

Cool, calm and collected. Thai Kitchen is not about going hell for leather like some brunches.

An a la carte menu and table service – just like dinner. Only you can eat as much as you like.

The wonderful Park Hyatt, leaving you plenty of post brunch drinking holes to choose from.

Taking it easy with a few choice pals or that special someone in your life.

Dhs245, making it one of the cheapest brunches in town.

If only all brunches took a leaf out of TK's book, our wallets would be signi�cantly tubbier.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai, noon to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

The quintessential pub atmoshere is a welcome change from your regular high-fallutin'a�airs.

Order from the menu, help yourself to cold cuts, salads and cheeses from the bu�et and then move on to the carving stations.

Crowne Plaza DFC, our preferred BBC.

Eating enough hearty grub and supping enough foamy beer to send you to sleep for a week.

Dhs199. You will not �nd a brunch of this quality for less than Dhs200 in Dubai.

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, Dubai, 1pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 7011128. www.ichotelsgroup.com


The best value for money brunch in Dubai.

After a day spent meandering around the mall, you'll require a good feed. Enter Toshi.

The most welcoming sta� in town. All singing, all dancing, these guys know how to party.


FOLLOWING 2010’S SMASH HIT HAIRSPRAY

THE CLASSIC AMERICAN MUSICAL COMES TO DUBAI

www.ductac.org

More information visit www.westsidestorydubai.com or call DUCTAC Box Office: 04 341 4777

“WEST SIDE STORY” Based on a Conception of JEROME ROBBINS Book by ARTHUR LAURENTS Music by LEONARD BERNSTEINLyrics by STEPHEN SONDHEIM Entire Original Production Directed and Choreographed by JEROME ROBBINS

Originally Produced on Broadway by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince By Arrangement with Roger L. Stevens

Tickets available now at timeouttickets.com & DUCTAC’s Box Office

STALLS - AED 165, BALCONY - AED 135, VIP - AED 250

AT CENTREPOINT THEATRE, DUCTACLEVEL 2, MALL OF THE EMIRATES, DUBAI, UAE

TUESDAY 19 - SATURDAY 23 JULY 2011

Event Partners:

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -WEST SIDE STORY is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are

also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019, Phone: 212-541-4684 Fax: 212-397-4684, Web: www.MTIShows.com

Whats On- DUCTAC.pdf 1 6/26/2011 12:10:38 PM

OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 95OCTOBER 2010 WHAT’S ON 95

1Amara Spa

2One&Only Spa

3SensAsia

Urban Spa

4Talise Spa

5The Spa

THE HOT LISTSPAS

THERAPISTS MENU THE SPA PRICE WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

THE DADDIES OF THE

HEALTH AND LEISURE SCENE

Pleasant and e�cient. And they even remember you, which is nice. Ask for Sue if your shoulders have more knots than a sailor's hankie.

Grouped by theme, there’s an emphasis on rituals and packages that include pool and health club access. And the pool is a knock-out.

Seriously beautiful, with a lovely tiled entrance area. It's particularly good for couples, with private outdoor showers and VIP suites.

Steep, but there are monthly o�ers that take the sting out. Bear in mind that this is so much more than a speedy rub-down.

Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai,9am to 10pm.Tel: (04) 6021234.www.dubai.park.hyatt.com

Utterly expert, very friendly and skilled beyond belief. If you want to know the hows and whys behind your treatment, they can explain them with ease.

Packed with ESPA treatments and products, the menu addresses every possible concern and then some.

Expect lots of wood, terracotta and gorgeous fabrics. Gorgeous.

Not as expensive as they could probably demand (shush) with a 25-minute body scrub for Dhs215 and one-hour massage costing Dhs490. Thumbs up.

One&Only The Palm, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 10am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4401010. www.thepalm.oneandonlyresorts.com

Quiet, kind and with a �rm hand when necessary, SensAsia’s sta� are trained to the highest standards.

Innovative and imaginative, you’ll �nd treatments you never knew you needed. Mum-to-bes, golfers, high-heel fans and more are all catered for.

Asian chic with splashes of jewel tones; the cosy rooms are a true retreat. And the dressing gowns are the best in town.

Choose wisely and you’ll get an hour-long massage for Dhs310, and they’ll often do monthly discounts. Worth a visit for the ginger tea alone.

The Beach Club, Al Nafura, Shoreline Apartments, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai,10am to 10pm.Tel: (04) 4227115.www.sensasiaspas.com

This spa is packed with experts; there’s a mix of nationalities and specialities, from massage therapists to a GP.

Talise sets itself apart with its naturopath, life coaching and medical testing, in addition to the large spa menu.

The treatment rooms are linked by leafy outdoor pathways, with an outdoor pool tucked away for those day-long spa sessions.

Average for such a high-end establishment, with the 80-minute Royal Hammam costing a fair Dhs450.

Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh, Dubai, 9am to 10pm.Tel: (04) 3666818.www.jumeirah.com/talise

Superbly trained therapists are on hand to guide you from reception to relaxation.

There are separate menus for ladies and gents. Particularly recommended is the Jet Lag treatment.

You’d never expect this shrine to de-stressing to be mere minutes from The Dubai Mall.

It’s pricey, but worth it for the quality of treatments and snooze you’ll enjoy.

The Address Dubai Mall, Old Town, Dubai, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 4388888. www.theaddress.com

The chilled pool with its own food menu is o�cially our spa-based happy place.

We'll be trying the medical pedicures next, after hearing very good things indeed.

There a new express spa at Mall Of The Emirates for speedy massages. A must-visit.

Ask them about the Talise detox mini-break at Bab Al Shams desert resort. Superb.


Quiet and luxurious, with quality added extras, this spa is a true sanctuary.

One & Only SpaAmara Spa


SPAS

6The Spa

8Armani/Spa

9Lime Spa

Our therapist on a recent visit was very well trained, super sweet and tough on knots. What more can you ask for?

Exotic massages, a dedicated men's menu, express therapies, facials by Natura Bisse and some waxing for good measure. It's all here.

Modern and calming, with pale woods, grey marble and clean lines. This isn't a spa to intimidate newbies.

At the higher end of the scale, with an 80-minute Thai massage for Dhs600, but there are regular promotions.

The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC, Dubai, 9am to 8pm. Tel: (04) 3722777. www.ritzcarlton.com

Experienced and elegant, the therapists will whisk you away from the daily grind into a cocoon of comfort.

Not the biggest in Dubai, but each treatment is well-chosen and e�ective, with a good selection of rituals for lengthy pampering.

The relaxation rooms overlook the lakes at the base of Burj Khalifa. This is high-quality spa real estate.

Average for a �ve-star spa, but you get your money's worth with access to the relaxation and steam areas.

The Palace, Old Town, Dubai, 9am to 8pm. Tel: (04) 4287888. www.theaddress.com

An international mix of sta�. We had a knot-busting South African. Impressive.

There’s no treatment menu as such, just book a time slot (from 90 minutes to a full day) and the therapist decides.

As stylish as you’d expect from Giorgio. It’s a sleek space with dark greys and clean lines. Very masculine indeed.

Not as bad as you fear, with 90 minutes costing Dhs650, up to Dhs2,500 for a full day.

Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Old Town, Dubai,9am to 9pm.Tel: (04) 8883888.www.dubai.armanihotels.com

Male and female therapists are available with extensive knowledge. They’re happy to answer questions, or just let you nod o�.

The menu invites you to ‘drop your robe, cares and guard’. Cheeky. There are Anne Semonin and Eve Lom treatments, plus everything from ear candling to sculpting rituals.

Shared steam and sauna facilities make it an ideal destination for couples. We especially like the clever two-way windows so you can look out over the polo �elds.

Mid-range, with a 60-minute Anne Semonin massage for Dhs450 and an hour of re�exology for Dhs395.

' Desert Palm, Al Awir Road, after International City, Dubai, 9am to 9pm. Tel: (04) 3238888. www.desertpalm.ae

The spa at Banyan Tree is split in two; The Rainforest hydrotherapy area and the treatment rooms. The sta� are fab throughout.

There is an Asian-inspired menu, but we vote going for The Rainforest where you journey through various saunas and steamrooms.

It’s gigantic and utterly decadent, Well worth the drive to Ras Al Khaimah.

If you’re not a guest at the hotel, an hour in The Rainforest is Dhs77. Treatments are on the expensive side, but high quality.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi, Ras Al Khaimah, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (07) 2067777. www.banyantree.com

We're suckers for a good relaxation area, and this one has snacks, books and lovely juices

We adore the palm-lined pool and fab restaurants at The Palace. We'd move in if we could.

The unique ‘decide for you’ approach is great for spa newbies.

We thoroughly recommend a massage then steak at Rare restaurant.

THERAPISTS MENU THE SPA PRICE WHAT’S ON SAYS...

INFO

7The Spa

HOT ON THE HEELS

11 Mandara Spa, The Monarch

12 One&Only Spa, One&Only

Royal Mirage

13 Spa InterContinental,

InterContinental Dubai Festival City

14 ShuiQi Spa & Fitness, Atlantis

15 The Grand Spa,

Grand Hyatt Dubai

Mandara SpaThe Nail Spa

Make a day of it with lunch or dinner at one of the hotel’s restaurants. 10

Banyan Tree Al Wadi


11 MANDARA SPAMonarch Hotel, Sheikh Zayed RoadSituated in the busy Monarch hotel, this spa is a world away from the business and conferences happening nearby. There’s a health club and pool, but the best reason to go is the lunch deal; occasionally they’ll team up with a neighbouring restaurant like Okku to offer a midweek meal and massage deal, usually a bargain at around Dhs350.The Monarch, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, 9am to 10pm. Tel: (04) 5018888



Our man on the radio tells it like it is in more than 140 characters...

It’s amazing how important certain things in life can become to us. Social networking cur-rently seems to be up there with air, water and food. In fact, I’d go so far as to say most of us have checked our walls and feeds before we’re fed and watered each morning. It’s an addic-tion. Once it’s a part of your life (or, more accurately, once your life is a part of it) it’s hard to imagine a world without it. However, a quick look over our shoulders shows we’re possibly experiencing something that’s noth-ing more than a fad.

Look at CB radio. When I was a kid, every street had at least one or two houses with an aerial 20�-high protruding from its roof. Of course, CB enthusiasts were nowhere near as prevalent as today’s Facebookers and Tweet-ers but that was more down to the cost of the equipment, the legal rami�cations and the fact that you couldn’t do it in the o�ce toilets on your phone (mainly because your phone was connected by a curly wire to another bit

her soon-to-be ex-boyfriend? How immense is it to have that golden nugget of gossip that leaves your friends slack-jawed in amaze-ment? Both the Twitter feed and Facebook wall give us unlimited access to the lives of friends, colleagues, enemies and old �ames. And the best part of all… It’s these people themselves telling us!

We can only wonder where it’s going to go next. Will we have our every movement captured digitally for anyone to access? Will our thoughts and dreams be readable? Will Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher use brain-joysticks to control us like marionettes? I don’t know. Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg probably don’t even know.

I am sure of one thing, though. If you tear-out this page and put it somewhere safe for 20 or 30 years, one day you’ll be able to take it out and show your grandkids that not only were people in awe of something stupid called Twitter, but they also let any old idiot write in magazines about it.

Catboy hosts the Catboy & Geordiebird Breakfast Show, Sun to Thurs, 6am to 10am, Dubai 92. www.dubai92.com

of phone which, in turn, was connected to the wall).

Back in the early 1990s, I had my only ever experience of CB radio whilst working at a summer camp in America. I gripped the receiver in one hand, whilst turning a dial, randomly responding in short sentences to crackly voices appearing from the ether, each one giving me an adrenalin rush as I wondered who these people were, what they looked like and if they were eating Yorkie bars as they drove their rig across deserted highways.

Technology aside, how di�erent is that to Twitter? We toss our 140 character questions, updates, comments and musings into an in-visible dimension and, like cyber �shermen, we wait for a bite, a reply, a retweet, or just any kind of acknowledgement that says WE KNOW YOU EXIST.

Both Twitter and Facebook also serve two other human needs. My grandad used to call them earwigging and muck-spreading, al-though I believe the dictionary would suggest eavesdropping and gossiping. How fantastic is sitting in the o�ce when your drama-queen colleague is having a row on the phone with

WITH CATBOYBACKCHATBACKCHAT

NEXT MONTH: OUR PICK OF THE BEST IFTARS IN TOWN, DETOX YOUR LIFE AND DUBAI’S BEST BOWLING ALLEYS

98 Backchat DXB.indd 98 6/28/11 10:41:52 AM

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SUMMER VISA DINING CASUAL AD - WHAT'S ON.pdf 1 6/15/11 5:00 PM

what's on | july 2011

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