Dubai Insider

DUBAI
HOTELS & RESORTS | RESTAURANTS | SHOPPING | CULTURE | ACTIVITIES

Atlantis, The Palm
EDITORIAL
Chief Creative Officer
John Thatcher
Group Content Director
Faye Bartle
Content & Social Editor
Hayley Kadrou
Content Writer
Habiba Azab
ART
Art Director
Kerri Bennett
Senior Designer
Hiral Kapadia
COMMERCIAL
Managing Director
Victoria Thatcher
Group Commercial
Director
David Wade
Commercial
Director
Rawan Chehab
Senior Advertising
Manager
Mia Cachero
PRODUCTION
Production Manager
Muthu Kumar
Production Coordinator
Nagu Subburaman
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WELCOME TO DUBAI
It’s set to be an epic year for the emirate. With the hotly-anticipated
Expo 2020 Dubai marking the start of a new decade in spectacular
style – it’s expected to attract 25 million visitors over six months
(October 2020 to April 2021) – the excitement in the air is palpable.
Outside of the mega event, let Dubai’s compelling brand of Arabian style
luxury lure you in. From traversing the desert dunes to loading up on luxury
labels in the city’s plush malls, basking in the sun on the beautiful beaches,
and ramping up the fun factor at the fantastic array of family-friendly
attractions, Dubai is sure to deliver a holiday to remember.
05
NEW ON THE SCENE
All the latest attractions in the emirate
and some handy tips for finding your
way from A to B
09
HOTELS & RESORTS
Stay with the best of them at our edit
of luxurious desert retreats, beachside
boltholes and sky-high suites
24
RESTAURANTS
Embark on a culinary journey of
Dubai’s foodie gems, from traditional
feasts to all-star dishes
33
SHOPPING
Swipe the credit card in the luxury
malls and haggle with small change in
the souks for those must-have buys
38
CULTURE
Swot up on the history of Dubai, meet
the locals and feast your eyes upon the
contemporary art scene
43
ACTIVITIES
Shooting down the rides and slides,
skydiving, getting an up-close look at the
wildlife... join in the high-energy pursuits
3 Welcome

What’s New
AN OPEN INVITATION
Dubai is forever adding to its roster of
stellar attractions. We’ve rounded up all
that’s new, notable and on the horizon
EXPO 2020 DUBAI
Expected to attract 25 million
visitors – 70% of whom will come
from outside the UAE – Expo 2020
Dubai will kick-start the decade in
style. Billed as the ‘World’s Greatest
Show’, the Expo will host 192 nation
pavilions, with a packed line-up of
60 daily events showcasing the best
of music, technology, creativity and
culture. Plus, there’ll be a whopping
200 dining outlets featuring famous
chefs and cuisines from every corner
of the globe. Not only is it the first
World Expo to be hosted by an
Arab nation, but it’s also the first
to take place in the Middle East,
Africa and South Asia, representing
an historic milestone for the UAE.
The event runs for six months, from
20 October 2020 to 10 April 2021,
at its sprawling site adjacent to Al
Maktoum International Airport in
Dubai South.
5 Hello Dubai

“THIS GRAVITY-DEFYING STRUCTURE IS SET
TO BE THE WORLD’S TALLEST BUILDING”
DUBAI CREEK TOWER
Designed by the renowned neofuturistic
Spanish architect, Santiago
Calatrava, this gravity-defying
structure is set to be the world’s
tallest building, surpassing Dubai’s
Burj Khalifa, currently the world’s
tallest building at a vertigo-inducing
828 m (2,716 ft) high. Soaring
up towards the clouds from the
heart of Dubai Creek Harbour, the
architectural marvel will feature
several enthralling observation decks,
an elevated garden and panoramic
views of Dubai Creek Harbour and Ras
Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
THE MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE
Fast forward to the future at this
visionary cultural institution, which
combines exhibitions, immersive
theatre and themed attractions to
showcase how technology may evolve
over the next 20 years. Inviting world
scholars and inventors to share their
insight, the museum will serve as a
platform for exploring the greatest
challenges and technologies that will
shape the world. Design buffs can
also admire its striking architecture,
including the Arabic calligraphy
adorning its exterior.
MADAME TUSSAUDS
You’ll soon be able to snap a selfie
with all your favourite pop stars,
Hollywood legends, sporting heroes
and historical icons at this worldrenowned
wax museum, which is
set to open on Bluewaters soon. The
Dubai outpost will mark the first
Tussauds in the Middle East.
THE DUBAI STARS
From movie idols to K-Pop stars,
Dubai’s very own Hollywood-style
Walk of Fame launched in October
2019 along Sheikh Mohammed bin
Rashid Boulevard, with 400 pavement
plaques honouring exceptional
personalities who have left an indelible
mark on the world (as voted for by the
6 Hello Dubai

public on social media). In the future,
there will be 10,000 Dubai Stars
shining bright along the boulevard.
THE PALM TOWER
This a 52-storey, luxury hotel and
residential complex on Palm Jumeirah,
set to open in 2020, will be the new
place to see and be seen. It will lay
claim to one of the highest infinity
pools in the world – perched 210
metres above ground level and
bordering all four sides of the building
Opening page: Al Wasl
Plaza, Expo 2020 Dubai
Opposite from top: Vida
Residences Creek Beach
in Dubai Creek Harbour,
showing Dubai Creek
Tower; Emaar presents
a Dubai Star to UFC
Lightweight Champion
Khabib Nurmagomedov
This page from top: The
Museum of The Future,
image courtesy of Dubai
Tourism; The Palm Tower
(just imagine those views). There’ll
also be a rooftop SushiSamba
restaurant, and The View observation
deck that’ll share the story of the
making of The Palm through its
interactive museum and dedicated
gallery. Accessing via Nakheel Mall,
you’ll make the three-minute ascent
in the hi-tech elevator (it has a floorto-ceiling
digital sea, sand and sky
display) to the observatory at the top
of the tower, where you can soak up
those panoramic views.
ON ARRIVAL
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
The city’s main airport is one of the
busiest hubs in the world, serving more
than 88.2 million customers annually,
and connecting more than 240
destinations across six continents on
more than 100 airlines.
Dubai World Central (DWC)
Located south of the city, in Jebel
Ali, the city’s new airport, which
commenced passenger flights in
October 2013, is set to become the
world’s largest airport with an ultimate
capacity of more than 160 million
passengers per annum.
To book a flight, call dnata Travel on
800 DNATA or visit dnatatravel.com
Want a fast-track arrival experience?
Book the excellent Marhaba service
(marhabaservices.com) for a hasslefree
welcome and speedy transfer from
touchdown to curbside taxi.
GETTING AROUND
Dubai Metro: The Red and Green
lines zip between key locations across
the city. The Red Line shuttles from
Rashidiya station to UAE Exchange
station in Jebel Ali. The Green Line runs
from the Etisalat station in Al Twar to
Dubai Old Souk in the Al Khor region.
You can transfer between the two lines
at Union station or BurJuman station.
Dubai Tram: Linking Dubai Metro
and the Palm Monorail, this handy
service runs along Al Sufouh Road
and Jumeirah Beach Road. Gold Class
ticket holders get access to private
cabins with wide leather seats and
panoramic views.
Taxi and car: Available to hail from
the street, or by calling +971 4 208
0808, Dubai’s official taxi service is
an affordable way to get around. If you
prefer to hire a car, you’ll find booking
desks at malls, airports and hotels.
NEED TO KNOW:
Weekends in Dubai are Friday and
Saturday. Show respect for the local
(Islamic) culture by covering up
shoulders, décolletage and legs (to the
knee) when entering public spaces. Feel
free to fall in love with the city but do
avoid public displays of affection – it’s
simply not the done thing.
7 Hello Dubai

Hotels & Resorts
GO GRAND
From underwater suites
to sky-high stunners, go big
before you go home
9 Hotels

Dubai certainly likes to do things on
a grand scale, and the hospitality
scene is no exception. From the
moment you arrive to the second
you depart, you’ll be swept away
by the emirate’s sprawling resorts
and glittering skyscrapers, which
house some of the most luxurious
guestrooms and suites on the planet.
You’ll find the emirate’s largest hotel
suite at Waldorf Astoria Dubai
Palm Jumeirah. The Royal Suite is
as big as four tennis courts, covering
the entire top floor of the hotel and
showcasing panoramic views of the
Arabian Gulf and Palm Jumeirah. If
that’s not enough to satisfy your thirst
for opulence, its vast spa, stretch of
private beach and mouthwatering
aromas wafting from Social by Heinz
Beck, are sure to do the trick.
Not all mega-suites are high-up,
however. Think of Atlantis, The Palm,
10 Hotels
as its mythical namesake suggests,
as a wondrous city under the sea –
something that’s best appreciated
from within its lauded Underwater
Suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows
puts the hotel’s mammoth aquarium
(which contains around 65,000
fish, including rays and sharks) on
show, as the wondrous creatures
glide right past your bed. Whether
you’re exploring The Lost Chambers
Aquarium, zooming down the rides
and slides at Aquaventure Waterpark,
or meeting the friendly marine
mammals at Sea Lion Point, splashtastic
fun is on the cards all day long.
Also boasting a coveted address
on Palm Jumeirah, Dukes The Palm,
a Royal Hideaway Hotel, the sister
hotel to Dukes London in Mayfair, is a
top choice for its quintessential British
charm that blends seamlessly with
Dubai’s love of luxury. There’s a lazy
river, private beach and Dukesy Kids
Club to keep the little ones entertained
– not to mention a clutch of excellent
places to eat, including Khyber, West
14 th and Great British Restaurant.
A little further along the Palm’s trunk
is another outstanding family-friendly
hotel, Fairmont The Palm. It’s easy
to unwind when staying here thanks
to highly-rated Falcon Kids’ Club,
soothing treatments on offer at Willow
Stream Spa, and the fabulous Little
Miss India restaurant (decked out in
contemporary colonial décor) providing
fun for all. We recommend upgrading
to a Fairmont Gold room, which comes
complete with executive lounge
access, plus a host of other benefits.
Nearby is the glamorous FIVE
Palm Jumeirah, with its innovative
architecture, Ottoman-inspired
spa and hip and happening
rooftop haunt, The Penthouse.

Over on the island’s East Crescent,
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
is where you’ll find the UAE’s only
over-water villas. Offering direct
access to the tranquil lagoons that
weave their way throughout the
resort, you can throw open your
patio doors and dip straight into the
water for a rejuvenating swim. For
an extra treat, book a table at the
award-winning Asian restaurant
Mekong and take a seat at the
rickshaw tables on the terrace as you
embark on a culinary journey through
Thailand, China and Vietnam.
Close by, Sofitel Dubai The
Palm brings a dash of French flair
to the emirate with its understated
glamour. Set off on a boat cruise,
explore under your own steam on a
pedal boat, or simply lounge on the
private stretch of beach. Foodies will
feel compelled to make a beeline to
Hong Loong restaurant for timeless
Chinese dishes that’ll tantalise the
taste buds with spicy flavours.
Yet another Palm Jumeirah hotspot,
One&Only The Palm is dubbed one
of the most romantic retreats in the
city, and its location at the very end
of Palm Jumeirah’s West Crescent
affords you ultimate privacy. Retreat
to a one-bedroom Arabesque Palm
Beach Executive Suite, which boasts
its own private pool just steps away
from the secluded sandy beach.
Throw in a treatment at Guerlain
Spa and a sumptuous meal by three-
Michelin-stared chef Yannick Alléno
at Stay restaurant and you’ve got
yourself the ultimate getaway.
In a city where too much is never
enough, Emerald Palace Kempinski
Dubai fits right in. Take a trip back to
the 18 th century at this neoclassical
hotel that exudes traditional European
splendour. Whether it’s the worldclass
dining venues, including miX
by Alain Ducasse, lavishly decorated
suites, private cinema, immaculate
white-glove service or landscaped
gardens inspired by the Palace of
Versailles, it’s easy to understand why
the resort ranks high on the luxury list.
Departing the Palm, yet not straying
from the coast, there’s a cluster of fivestar
hotels that grace the beachfront
Opening page:
Caesars Palace
Bluewaters Dubai
Previous page: Underwater
Suite at Atlantis, The Palm
This page, from top:
Fairmont The Palm; Anantara
The Palm Dubai Resort;
Sofitel The Palm
12 Hotels

A JOURNEY OF
THE SENSES IN
THE HEART OF
DUBAI
Experience luxury in the heart of Downtown at
Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf, Dubai, ideally located
close to iconic attractions and minutes away
from Dubai International Airport. Unwind in
modern, thoughtfully-designed rooms and
suites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and
deluxe amenities. Savor international cuisine
at five dining destinations, indulge in welldeserved
pampering at the luxurious Saray
Spa, relax in the outdoor pool with unmatched
city views or visit the fully-equipped fitness
center. When it’s time to explore, visit nearby
attractions and the beach with the hotel’s
complimentary shuttle.
MARRIOTT HOTEL AL JADDAF, DUBAI
Oud Metha Road, Al Jaddaf Area, PO Box 122273, Dubai, UAE
marriottdiningaljaddaf.com
DubaiMarriottAlJaddaf | @MarriottJaddaf | MarriottAlJaddaf

Clockwise from left:
JA Ocean View Hotel;
Habtoor Grand Resort,
Autograph Collection;
Caesars Palace
Bluewaters Dubai
14 Hotels
“HEAD OUT ONTO YOUR PRIVATE
BALCONY TO GAZE AT THE AZURE
WATERS OF THE ARABIAN GULF”
promenade of Jumeirah Beach
Residence (JBR), including Sofitel
Dubai Jumeirah Beach. Head out
onto your private balcony to gaze at the
azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, or chill
in the infinity pool with its swim-up bar.
At Habtoor Grand Resort,
Autograph Collection, not only can
you revel in the luxury of its stylish
suites, plush spa, sparkling swimming
pools and top dining spots, but
you can also make the most of its
premium location just a few steps
away from Skydive Dubai. There,
you can tick a bucket-list goal off
your list by jumping out of a plane
tethered to a seasoned professional.
Also fronting the lively JBR plaza
is JA Ocean View Hotel, which
lives up to its name with 342 seafacing
rooms and suites, all awash
in the colours of the sea, with cool
blue interiors and high ceilings for
an easy breezy ambience. The hotel
is also home to Offside, one of the
neighbourhood’s favourite haunts for
British-style grub and live sports.
Just off the JBR coast, Bluewaters, is
another popular man-made isle home
to a mixture of hotels, residences,
shops and entertainment, as well as
the under-construction Ain Dubai
observation wheel. It’s home to
Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, which
brings all the power of its legendary
Las Vegas cousin to the UAE for an
exhilarating stay. It comprises a trio of
resorts: Caesars Palace Bluewaters
Dubai, the place to go for luxury, with
sun drenched fun at Cove Beach, dining
delights at Gordon Ramsay Hell’s
Kitchen and pampering on tap at Qua
Spa; Caesars Resort Bluewaters
Dubai, spot on for a family getaway;
and The Residences at Caesars
Palace with its home away from
home vibe ideal for longer stays.
In Dubai Marina, Grosvenor
House, a Luxury Collection Hotel
has become something of a landmark
thanks to its two glittering 45-storey
towers that dominate the skyline. It’s
a great place to stay if you like to be

“SOAK UP THE RAYS WHILE RELAXING IN A BUBBLING
JACUZZI ON THE BURJ AL ARAB TERRACE”
This page from top:
Wyndham Dubai Marina;
Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers,
Dubai Opposite: Burj Al
Arab Jumeirah
in the middle of all the action, with
its ever-popular roster of world-class
restaurants, including Rhodes W1 and
Toro Toro drawing the city’s social set.
Meanwhile, Wyndham Dubai
Marina is a style-conscious hotel with
a coveted location just a stroll away
from the beach, with glittering views
of the buzzing marina. There’s a raft
of shops and eateries on the doorstep,
but if you don’t want to venture far,
the hotel boasts its own great mix
of restaurants, along with a lively
rooftop bar and an impressive spa.
Just across Sheikh Zayed Road,
Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai
brings a touch of luxury to the
neighbourhood with its sleek and bold
design that fuses Indian and Middle
Eastern touches through an eclectic
16 Hotels
mixture of art. Add sweeping views of
Emirates Golf Club, the marina and
the sea, as well as delicious pan-Indian
cuisine courtesy of Shamiana (from
Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai), and you’ve
got a fitting place to rest your head.
Back on the beach, heading north
along the coast, One&Only Royal
Mirage cuts a handsome figure
amid 65 acres of lavishly landscaped
gardens. The opulent resort comprises
three main hotels: the magical Arabian
Court, the Moorish-style The Palace,
and the intimate Residence & Spa.
Plus, there’s a lone Beach Garden
Villa for ultimate seclusion. Indulge
in a traditional Arabian spa ritual in
the oriental hammam and feed your
appetite at the resort’s top dining
spots Celebrities, The Beach Bar
& Grill and Esplanade, which are
overseen by Chef Mauro Colagreco (of
three-Michelin-star Mirazur fame).
The epitome of seaside suite spots,
however, is none other than Burj Al
Arab Jumeirah. Designed in the shape
of a billowing sail (a nod to the nation’s
long-standing heritage), it raises the
bar when it comes to Arabian style
luxury. Once you have been discreetly
checked into your decadent split-level
suite, you can set about enjoying all
the experiences this hospitality icon
has to offer, from chartering your
own private yacht to soaking up the
rays while relaxing in a bubbling
Jacuzzi on the Burj Al Arab Terrace.
Further along the coastline lies
another enduring favourite, Jumeirah
Beach Hotel. The shimmering
beachside, wave-shaped resort is just
as perfect for families (the fun-packed
Wild Wadi Waterpark is just a few
steps away) as it is for sun worshippers.
Go and discover its coveted spot
along the beach, numerous swimming
pools and crowd-pleasing dining
options that range from fresh flavours
at Fika by Chef Izu Ani to pan-
Asian delights at Beachcombers.
Just next door, Jumeirah Al Naseem
delivers laid-back luxury with a décor
inspired by Dubai’s pearl diving history.
Families also gravitate here to see the
turtle lagoon, where sick and injured
sea turtles are nursed back to health.
With a prime location that places you
just steps away from the seafront and
a short drive from Downtown Dubai,
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
has outdone itself with its first foray
into the UAE. Offering a contemporary
classic feel and flurry of sea-facing
rooms, you can treat yourself to some
fine dining (including contemporary
Portuguese at Tasca by José Avillez),
and pampering at the spa – we
rate the Nomadic Sensory Journey,
which features Emirati drumming
as part of the healing process.
Zip further along the coast to Pearl
Jumeira and you’ll find another H2O-

17 Hotels

“SOAK UP THE SIGNATURE ALL-WHITE DÉCOR
AND CALMING VIEWS OF THE ARABIAN GULF”
Clockwise from left: Nikki
Beach Resort & Spa Dubai;
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai;
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai
Canal View; ME Dubai
centric option, the exclusive Nikki
Beach Resort & Spa Dubai. The
Dubai incarnation of the Miami-meets-
Mediterranean hotspot, complete
with signature all-white décor, comes
with calming views of the Arabian
Gulf and Dubai skyline – stunning
sunsets are the cherry on top.
Heading downtown, which is home
to a clutch of the emirate’s record
breakers, including Burj Khalifa, The
Dubai Fountain and The Dubai Mall,
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai makes
the most of its status the world’s tallest
five-star hotel, with 72 floors dedicated
to luxury and guestrooms boasting
stellar views of the city skyline. Splurge
on a night in the top-floor split-level
penthouse with its mesmerising
floor-to-ceiling window vistas.
18 Hotels
Also in the area, Renaissance
Downtown Hotel Dubai lures foodies
with its showstopping Japanese
restaurant, Morimoto Dubai, led by Iron
Chef Masaharu Morimoto, as well as
the lively BASTA! and Bleu Blanc. If it’s
not food you’re after, you’ll find peace
and tranquillity at any of the stylish
suites or at Six Senses Spa, which has
six different treatment rooms, each
dedicated to a different sense. Choose
from a range of soothing treatments
and feel your tension ease away.
The stylish rooms and suites
at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai
Canal View boasts picture perfect
vistas of the bustling Downtown
Dubai and the Dubai Water Canal.
It’s great for families too, with the
option for connected rooms.
A city on the move, Dubai is
constantly adding new properties
to its luxury repertoire and Address
Sky Views is chief among the grand
new openings attracting attention.
The sleek resort places you in the
heart of bustling downtown, offering
stunning views of The Dubai Fountain
and Burj Khalifa. The jewel in the
crown, however, is its picturesque
rooftop infinity pool, which delivers
attention grabbing Instagram posts.
Meanwhile, the new ME Dubai is
making waves as an architectural
marvel, designed by the late, great
Zaha Hadid. Putting you in the thick
of the local cultural scene, the hotel is
located just a few minutes from crowdpulling
attractions including Dubai
Opera. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, meaning

This page: JA The Resort
Opposite: JA Lake View Hotel
Overleaf: Marriott Hotel Al
Jaddaf, Dubai
“THERE’S NEVER A DULL MOMENT AT THIS
SPRAWLING RESORT IN JEBEL ALI”
20 Hotels

you don’t have to leave your furry
friend behind. Pampered pooches even
receive a welcome kit and can dine
from a menu of fetching doggy food
especially prepared by the hotel’s chefs.
Film buffs will be treated to a
hefty dose of Hollywood glamour
at the newly-opened Paramount
Hotel Dubai. Inspired by the rich
history of Paramount Pictures, the
cinematic style resort adds a dash
of silver-screen flair to the heart of
Dubai’s dynamic Business Bay district.
With Hollywood-themed rooms,
Californian inspired cuisine and nightly
entertainment, you’ll feel like a star
strutting along your own red carpet.
Meanwhile, Armani Hotel Dubai
is so cohesively Armani that staying
there is akin to being at one of Giorgio’s
stylish house parties –only in reality
you’re on the eighth floor of the
world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa.
Fashion mavens will also gravitate
towards Palazzo Versace Dubai, which
brings a touch of 16 th -century palatial
decadence to the Culture Village
district on the banks of Dubai Creek.
A neoclassical-meets-Arabian styled
resort, the artistic direction of Donatella
Versace is evident throughout,
and captured perfectly in the twobedroom
duplex Imperial Suites.
If you feel like having an A-list
moment, you can follow in the footsteps
of supermodel Bella Hadid and Oscarwinning
actress Alicia Vikander by
heading to Bulgari Resort Dubai
– the fifth international property for
the design legend. With the added
attraction of its own private mini manmade
island location off the Jumeirah
coastline (Jumeira Bay Island), a
swanky line-up of high-end eateries,
and the world’s first Bulgari Marina and
Yacht Club, it has quickly become a
favourite among discerning travellers.
Dubai is synonymous with shopping
and those in need of some retail therapy
will want to stay as close as possible to
the action. Just around the corner from
The Dubai Mall (which is home to more
than 1,300 stores and family-friendly
dining and entertainment spots galore),
is the boutique Vida Downtown,
located on Sheikh Mohammed bin
Rashid Boulevard. The property will lure
you in with its contemporary charm,
posh French dining at La Serre and the
delightfully kitsch Vida Food Truck.
Meanwhile, at Kempinski Hotel
Mall of the Emirates, you can join the
starry-eyed guests carrying designer
shopping bags from the adjoining
mall from which it takes its name.
You can stash your buys in your cosy
ski chalet style room as you watch
the adventure seekers zooming
down the slopes of Ski Dubai.
Directly linked to the ever-popular
Dubai Marina Mall (which boasts
hundreds of stores, including highstreet
favourites Mint Velvet and Maje),
Address Dubai Marina offers you the
chance to enjoy some quality shopping
on a more manageable scale. Be sure to
enjoy some post-spree rejuvenation at
the lavish spa and outdoor infinity pool.
A boutique stay with shopping
opportunities on the doorstep also
comes courtesy of the super stylish
La Ville Hotel & Suites CITY WALK,
Dubai, Autograph Collection.
Situated at the heart of City Walk, one
of Dubai’s most chi-chi urban lifestyle
destinations, this low-rise property is
a magnet for visiting fashionistas and
influencers alike. That said, the hotel’s
rooftop infinity pool with premium Burj
Khalifa views is worth the stay alone.
If you feel like decamping to a
sprawling resort, our favourites include
JA The Resort in Jebel Ali, which is a
firm favourite for a staycation among
Dubai’s long-timers, and it’s easy to
understand why. Home to JA Beach
Hotel, JA Palm Tree Court and the
recently added JA Lake View Hotel,
the resort is set within 128 acres and
offers a variety of room types, from
dedicated family hideaways to luxurious
suites. There’s never a dull moment
thanks to the 800-metre private beach,
four landscaped swimming pools,
over 16 restaurants and bars and an
impressive line-up of activities, giving
you plenty of opportunities to make
memories. Keen golfers can practise
their swing at the 9-hole par 35 course,
or brush up on their technique at the
on-site Leadbetter Golf Academy.
If you’re up for thrills and spills,
Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts,
Autograph Collection is just the
ticket. Situated within Dubai Parks
and Resorts’ borders, you can spend
your days splashing away at Legoland
Waterpark, taking your little ones on
a mini-adventure at Legoland Dubai,
or enjoying the rides and shows of
Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood
Parks Dubai. After a day on your feet,
the Polynesian-themed resort invites
you to lounge around its heated
pools, and soak up the laid-back
atmosphere at the rooftop lounge.
Drawing the region’s equestrian elite,
Meliã Desert Palm Dubai is a hidden
gem. Set in 160 acres of greenery
21 Hotels

Wellness Haven at Saray Spa.
Renew for the journey ahead.
A relaxing realm of quiet luxury, Saray Spa at the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is an authentic wellness Spa,
where ancient healing techniques and locally sourced natural ingredients are combined to enhance the
well-being of each guest. The Spa features 17 treatment rooms, inclusive of two private Hammam rooms,
one Dead Sea treatment room boasting the UAE’s only Dead Sea Floatation Pool found within, and two
Private Luxury Spa Suites. Experience the wonders of the Middle East through Arabian Body Rituals or
Hammam Rituals, or benefit from the resultsoriented facials. An exclusive retail boutique offers luxurious
gifts and spa products for every occasion.
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE
T +971 4 414 6754 | mhrs.dxbjw.spa@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
*Terms and conditions: Offer is subject to availability and advance reservations are required. This is a limited time offer.

and sand, with just 38 rooms, suites
and villas, this exclusive hideaway is
sure to impress. Whether you want to
stomp the divots (polo players take to
the field October to April), trot through
the estate on an Arabian stallion, or
enjoy a soothing massage at Samāna
Spa, there’s luxury at every turn.
More equestrian action can be
enjoyed at The Meydan Hotel, which
overlooks Dubai’s spectacular Meydan
Racecourse. As well as getting a
thrilling view of racing thoroughbreds,
the hotel can arrange stable tours
that’ll give you a glimpse into the
jockeys’ room, saddling paddock
and parade ring. The hotel also has
a fabulous array of restaurants.
No trip to the UAE is complete,
however, without going beyond the big
city and escaping deep into the desert.
Nestled amid the golden dunes of the
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve,
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert
Resort & Spa, Dubai will capture your
imagination with its wildlife wonders
(including the protected Arabian
oryx). Get ready for starry nights,
spellbinding sunsets and Arabesque
luxury in the form of sun-drenched
“GET READY FOR STARRY NIGHTS,
SPELLBINDING SUNSETS AND
ARABESQUE LUXURY”
bungalows, traditional Arabic fare
and ultimate rejuvenation at the
resort’s renowned Timeless Spa.
Another dearly loved desert escape
is Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa,
which charms guests with its Arabian
Nights style architecture, views of the
undulating dunes and alfresco dinners
served beneath starlit skies. Nature
walks, falconry and infinity pools, not
to mention the sublime Satori Spa, will
make it a struggle to leave this desert
diamond – that much is guaranteed.
Back in the city, visitors looking to
soak up a little more history should
cross the Garhoud Bridge to the Deira
side of town and the banks of Dubai
Creek, the emirate’s historic heartland.
Nestled beyond the greens and berths
of Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the
tranquil Park Hyatt Dubai is a gem. Its
white-washed walls and blue domes
channel a Greek odyssey while deserthued
interiors remind you that you’re
still in Arabia. Watch yachts bobbing on
the water from your stylishly appointed
room and enjoy the serene vibes at
the award-winning Amara Spa.
On Oud Metha Road, Marriott
Hotel Al Jaddaf, Dubai is a popular
choice for its modern, thoughtfullydesigned
rooms and suites (think Frette
linens and deluxe amenities). It’s also
home to a great steakhouse, Scots
American Grill, and the tranquil Saray
Spa offering soothing treatments and
dreamy full-day pamper packages.
Shaking up the south bank of Dubai
Creek, Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al
Seef is urban cool personified, with
its contemporary art inspired by the
emirate, lively SOL Sky Bar, and handy
location close to the shops, cafés and
pop-ups on the creek. Just next door,
Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef
is bright and quirky, with its outdoor
pool and hearty hot breakfasts.
Lastly, Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton,
will wow you with its traditional
architecture (characterful guestrooms
feature woven fabrics and wooden
beams) and dreamy infinity pool.
23 Hotels

Restaurants
WHAT’S COOKING?
The City of Gold delivers the
world on a plate
24 Restaurants

As a centuries-old trading
hub, Dubai’s culinary scene
has been exposed to a
smorgasbord of influences,
from Indian to European and Levantine
flavours. Today, homegrown gems
sit happily alongside glamorous
international imports, meaning
there’s something for every taste.
If fine dining is a passion, you’ll
be pleased to know that a parade
of top-notch venues have made
their way through the city’s kitchen
doors, drawing a dedicated following
for their stand-out dishes, often
crafted by famous fingers. You can
get a photo of Salt Bae cascading a
flourish of salt from the palm of his
hand onto perfectly seared steak
(cue the clapping) at his flagship
restaurant Nusr-Et Steakhouse in the
Restaurant Village at Four Seasons
Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach.
Meanwhile, multi-Michelin-starred
chef Alain Ducasse has found a fitting
“MASSIMO BOTTURA’S EXPERTLY
CRAFTED DISHES WILL
TRANSPORT YOU TO THE ITALIAN
RIVIERA OF THE 1960S”
home at Kempinski Emerald Palace
Hotel for his miX Dubai by Alain
Ducasse, which sees the culinary
maestro show off his signature style
of melding classical French with
the contemporary, while adding a
hint of local flavour. The draw card
for serious foodies here, however,
is the chef’s table, hidden away and
accessed only by private elevator.
Add a pinch of Yannick Alléno’s
Gallic flair to your gourmet itinerary and
head to STAY by Yannick Alléno at
One&Only The Palm, where opulence
is the order of the day, both on the
plate and in the restaurant design.
Venture to the other side of the
Palm’s crescent and you’ll find
Social by Heinz Beck at Waldorf
Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. A Willy
Wonka of molecular gastronomy,
the three-Michelin starred chef is
known for his impeccable ability to
implement innovative techniques that
transform simple ingredients into
highly evocative dishes – and this is a
great venue at which to discover it.
Acclaimed Korean American chef
Akira Back has his eponymous Middle
Eastern outlet at W Dubai – The Palm,
where he showcases his unique blend
of modern Japanese and Korean
influences. Arrive in good time for a
drink at the floating bar and lap up
the stellar views of Palm Jumeirah.
At the very same hotel is Torno
Subito, Massimo Bottura’s first venue
outside of Italy. Here, his expertly
crafted dishes will transport you
to the Italian Riviera of the 1960s
for some good old fashioned fun.
25 Restaurants

Opening page:
Morimoto Dubai
Previous page: Torno Subito
These pages, from top:
La Petite Maison; Khyber;
Little Miss India
Overleaf: Al Mahara
Over at Caesars Palace Bluewaters
Dubai, show-stopping theatre
meets world-class cooking at
Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen
Dubai, where signature dishes
such as lobster risotto and sticky
toffee pudding take centre stage
amid a variety of fiery delicacies.
Another show worth pursuing is
at Morimoto Dubai by Iron Chef
Masharu Morimoto which spans
the 23 rd and 24 th floor of the stylish
Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai.
Bag a seat at the live teppanyaki
counter and marvel at the chef’s
trademark culinary style. We rate the
ishi yaki A5-grade Japanese wagyu
– it’s simply a culinary masterpiece.
Join the city’s high flyers who
like to meet and mingle at Dubai
International Financial Centre (DIFC),
which has become a hub for great
restaurants, including Zuma at Gate
Village. Serving classic Japanese
fare with a contemporary zest, it’s
the place to go for lip-smackingly
good sushi – be sure to try the
signature dynamite spider rolls.
With the likes of Cindy Crawford,
Andy Warhol and Kendall Jenner as
fans of its flagship restaurant in New
York, celebrity-favourite Indochine
caused quite the stir when it opened
its first branch outside of Manhattan
at DIFC. The French-Vietnamese
restaurant features the brand’s
signature tropical decor (including
the iconic Martinique wallpaper), and
a sumptuous menu of time-honoured
classics. The famous duck salad
and Vietnamese ravioli made with
rice noodles, chicken, shrimp and
shiitake mushroom is a must-try.
Also in the neighbourhood, La
Petite Maison is a solid choice for
a sophisticated evening out, with
its Cote d’Azur style ambience
and focus on fresh ingredients.
In a city awash with A-list Indian
fare, Khyber (the first international
outpost of the famous Mumbai
restaurant) at Dukes The Palm, a
Royal Hideaway certainly holds
its own. Expect flavour-packed
dishes with highlights including
the tandoor-cooked baby lamb
leg and green masala pomfret.
26 Restaurants

AD
Elsewhere, a special mention
must go to the kitsch and totally
Instagrammable Little Miss India at
Fairmont The Palm. With a colourfully
painted Indian truck flanking the
entrance, eclectic décor and an
open-kitchen with chefs preparing
fragrant regional Indian dishes,
it’s a feast for all the senses.
Offering dishes derived from
both modern and classic recipes,
Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra
occupies a vibrant spot inside
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, and
will take you on a culinary journey
across every region of India.
“THE AQUARIUM IS A BACKDROP
TO SOME OF THE FINEST SEAFOOD
SERVED IN THE EMIRATES”
New to the scene is Kinara by
Vikas Khanna at JA Lake View Hotel,
where you can taste the modern
Indian cuisine from the Michelinstarred
chef. Take your pick from the
menu of authentic regional dishes
with a modern twist, many of which
focus on the smoky flavours of the
Tandoori oven, with spices galore.
If in doubt, opt for the signature
dish of Dahi ke Kebab, which
provides a tasty introduction to the
chutneys of the different regions.
Moving South East, Cé La Vi
sits atop of the new Address Sky
View, offering glittering views of
the city skyline (it’s one of the city’s
highest rooftops). Get set to feast
upon contemporary Asian fare, with
Hokkaido scallop, oyster ceviche
and Rangers Valley ‘Black Market’
Tomahawk among the highlights.
For delicious Thai food, Bamboo
Kitchen at Habtoor Grand Resort,
Autograph Collection, is a wonderful
27 Restaurants

spot for a casual meal, while the
award-winning Tong Thai at JW
Marriott Marquis Dubai teams street
food favourites with inventive classics.
Due to its Arabian Gulf location,
you’d be correct in assuming Dubai’s
culinary offering is brimming with
excellent seafood all-year-round,
and at Al Mahara at Burj Al Arab
Jumeirah is a fabulous introduction.
A submarine-like lift drops you off
into a gold-leaf-clad tunnel where
you’ll find a floor-to-ceiling aquarium
filled with underwater wonders as
a backdrop to some of the finest
seafood served in the emirates.
A hop and a skip away, at
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai
Jumeirah Beach, The MAINE
Oyster Bar & Grill goes full on
crustacean. We rate the Neptune
Folly, a three-tiered seafood tower
decorated with crab legs, prawns,
oysters and scallop ceviche.
It’s another seafood bonanza at
Bluewaters Island where Alici Dubai,
the restaurant by the group behind
the award-winning Il Borro Tuscan
Bistro, serves up caviar and Amalfi
Coast vibes with unfettered sea views.
Away from the coast, denizens of
Emirates Financial Towers clamour
for a table at Crab Market, where
acclaimed Russian chef Vladimir
Mukhin imports Kamchatka crabs to
create a truly international flavour.
If your little ones are bit iffy about
seafood, Aprons & Hammers, at
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach
Resort & Marina and La Mer,
serves up crab and shrimp by the
bucketful, along with crackers and
hammers for some smashing fun.
If it’s not particularly seafood
you’re after but a stunning sea view,
Shimmers at Jumeirah Mina A’ Salam
ticks a lot of boxes with its easy-going
ambience, striking Burj Al Arab views
and homemade family favourites,
courtesy of chef Yiannis Katsikas.
You can take a quick trip to the
classic coastal splendour of Cape Cod
at Noépe at Park Hyatt Dubai. Sit
back and admire the panoramic view
of Dubai Creek as you sample dishes
from Californian and Nikkei cuisines.
For a casual vibe, Fish Beach
28 Restaurants

Shimmers
“FEAST ON HOMEMADE FAMILY
FAVOURITES AND STUNNING SEA VIEWS”
29 Restaurants

Taverna at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi
Beach Resort & Marina conjures up
thoughts of summer on the Greek
islands with its whitewashed walls,
blue accents and sharing-style Aegean
menu of Turkish and Greek delicacies.
Sticking with Greek, Gaia is a
slice of Santorini with its simple
home-made style goodness. As
you’d expect from the brainchild of
culinary experts Chef Izu Ani and
Chef Orestis Kotefas, the food is
something to write home about.
For a theatrical dining experience,
head to Opa at Fairmont Dubai
where you can take part in platesmashing
and Zorba dancing after
feasting on refined Greek fare.
Steak connoisseurs can have their
fill of meaty goodness at STK at Rixos
Premium Dubai on The Walk at JBR.
Its signature cuts of prime beef are so
juicy and delicious, you’ll be glad the
resident DJ is cranking up the music,
so you can dance away the calories.
Also unmissable is PRIME
Steakhouse at The Meydan Hotel,
where the theatrics of tableside
flambé, delectable cuts of meat and
the elegant setting will delight.
If you’re more of a burger fan, the
sensational stacks at Black Tap are
best enjoyed alongside the creamy
monster milkshakes (order one that
comes with a whole slice of cake
on top). There are several outlets
in Dubai but we recommend you
head to the Jumeirah Al Naseem
30 Restaurants

“THERE’S AN ENTICING UNDERBELLY OF ENCHANTING
VENUES THAT OFFER MEMORABLE MEALS AMID THE DUNES”
branch to dine beside the water.
One to tick off the foodie bucketlist
is a meal at At.mosphere, the
world’s tallest restaurant on the 122 nd
floor of Burj Khalifa. Opt for the high
tea experience in the lounge, which
provides the perfect excuse to linger
and enjoy the view while nibbling on
delicious sweets and savoury bites.
For a front row seat to The Dubai
Fountain, you’ll find lots of venues
at The Dubai Mall and neighbouring
Souk Al Bahar that deliver the goods.
One of the best on the scene is Zeta
at Address Downtown, which blends
Californian and Asian influences with
a close-up view of all the action.
Beyond the skyscrapers, there’s
an enticing underbelly of enchanting
venues that offer memorable meals
amid the dunes. Al Hadheerah, at
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa,
transports you to old Arabia with a
dazzling line-up of entertainment,
including belly dancing, henna
painting, a live Arabic band and a
falcon display. Bag a spot on the
outdoor seating area and feast on
traditional Middle Eastern fare as
you sit back and enjoy the show.
Similarly, Al Diwaan at Al Maha,
a Luxury Collection Desert Resort
& Spa, Dubai, will seat you on
the veranda for a gourmet feast
with breathtaking views of the
wildlife reserve where Arabian
oryx and gazelle roam freely.
Further embrace the Emirati culture
and re-live the Dubai of the 1960s
by heading to Al Fanar Restaurant.
There are two locations (at Dubai
Festival City and Al Seef) serving
home-style favourites, such as
maleh (salt-cured fish) and naghar
mashwi (spiced grilled squid).
Meanwhile, for a novel treat,
head to Majlis at The Dubai Mall,
which specialises in coffee, cakes,
shakes and ice-cream made from
camel milk, a Bedouin staple.
Opposite from top left:
Opa; Zeta This page: STK;
Fish Beach Taverna
31 Restaurants

DUBAI DUTY FREE
Famous for its world-class shopping, Dubai Duty Free
invites you to experience the best of the emirate
These pages, clockwise:
The Irish Village in Studio
One Hotel; Dubai Duty Free
Arrivals Shop in Terminal 3
of DXB Airport; the Jumeirah
Creekside Hotel
SHOP
With a first-class customer service,
excellent value for money and a
wide range of quality products in
a luxurious shopping environment,
Dubai Duty Free is your first and
last stop for retail therapy. Be sure
to visit the new Arrivals Shop in
Terminal 3 at Dubai International
Airport before you go out and explore
the mesmerising City of Gold.
STAY
Set in landscaped grounds
overlooking Dubai Creek, the
Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, owned
by Dubai Duty Free, perfectly
encompasses the modern luxury of
the city. Enjoy access to the awardwinning
Akaru spa, Jumeirah’s
32 Dubai Insider x Dubai Duty Free
private beach and complimentary
access to the exhilarating Wild
Wadi Waterpark.
DINE AND UNWIND
A little piece of Ireland in the heart
of Dubai, The Irish Village invites you
to step back in time to the taverns
of olden times. Designed to look like
a typical Irish village street, serving
traditional Irish food, it’s a little slice
of home away from home. Following
the successful opening of its second
outpost at Riverland Dubai, Dubai
Parks & Resorts, The Irish Village now
has a third venue at Studio One Hotel
in Dubai Studio City. And as the world
eagerly waits for Expo 2020 Dubai,
The Irish Village is opening its fourth
outlet in the Expo grounds.
EXPERIENCE
Dubai boasts a year-round calendar
of activities and events. Among the
premier dates in the diary is Dubai
Duty Free Tennis Championships,
which is set to take place from 17
– 29 February, with the current top
three women in the world battling
it out for the coveted trophy. As
the tournament celebrates the
20 th anniversary of the WTA event,
followed by a star-studded ATP
event, expect to witness arguably
the strongest line-up of players in
its 28-year history, including Novak
Djokovic, Roger Federer, Stefanos
Tsitsipas and Roberto Bautista Agut
to name just a few.
To find out more, visit dubaidutyfree.com

SHOPPING
BOUTIQUE BONANZA
Soak up the spice-scented
souks and load up on labels in
the plush malls
33 Shopping

Shopping is a national pastime in
the UAE. Indeed, if New York is the
city that never sleeps, then Dubai is
the city that never stops shopping.
Here, designer boutiques dazzle with
luxury labels from all over the globe,
while traditional souks bubble over with
energy. If you’re intent on embarking
on a mammoth spree, The Dubai Mall
is the queen of retail experiences, with
practically everything you could want for
under one roof. This vast hub is home
to more than 1,300 shops, including a
dedicated luxury zone, Fashion Avenue,
bookended by anchor department stores
Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s.
Shop your way around the luxury
labels and high-street favourites to
the atmospheric Souk, where gems
from Middle Eastern and South Asian
jewellery shops glisten. When you’re done
pounding the marble-clad walkways,
there’s even more fun to be had at
the many dining and entertainment
attractions, such as Dubai Aquarium &
Underwater Zoo where you can marvel at
the marine life through the 270-degree
walkthrough tunnel. For coffee with a
view of The Dubai Fountain, the terrace
at Maison Assouline gets the thumbs up
from us.
Similarly grandiose, yet slightly less
intimidating, Mall of the Emirates is a
multi-level shopping extravaganza. Not
only does it boast a clutch of coveted
designers in its Fashion Dome, but it’s
also home to big name brands including
flagship stores Debenhams, Harvey
Nichols and Marks & Spencer. Once
you’re all shopped out, hit the slopes at
indoor ski resort Ski Dubai.
With a gorgeous waterfront location,
Dubai Marina Mall offers a laid-back
shopping experience with its array of
high-street brands and alfresco dining
venues overlooking the yachts bobbing in
the marina.
One of the newest malls on the scene,
Nakheel Mall on Palm Jumeirah has
brought more than 300 restaurants,
shops and attractions to the scene,
including Boom & Mellow and Prima
Gold. It’s also the access point for the
upcoming public observatory – The
View at The Palm – at the top of the
neighbouring Palm Tower.
Those who wish to look past the glitzy
labels and conventional stores will find
a strong undercurrent of concept stores
worth discovering. Make Comptoir 102
the first on your list. The boutique-meetsorganic-café
is a treasure trove of eclectic
fashion, jewellery, and interiors finds from
around the globe.
Another cool stop-off is The Edit
Dubai on Al Wasl Road, which carries a
curated range of fashion and accessories,
including silk kimonos from Nüdwear,
billowing dresses from Bedouin Studios
and equally gorgeous pieces from the
likes of Seren London, Acler and Monica
Sordo – with great coffee to boot.
There’s an increasing number of
outdoor shopping districts to check out,
too. Urban jungle City Walk has a clutch
of designer-centric boutiques, such as
Bambah and Michael Kors, alongside
some absolutely fabulous cafés.
Nearby, on Al Wasl Road, the hip
BoxPark (comprised of refitted shipping
containers) lures the cool set with its lineup
of contemporary fashion brands, from
Adidas to Urbanist.
At The Beach at JBR you can trawl the
shops that run alongside the beachfront
promenade. Ramp up your poolside style
credentials by picking up some new
swimwear at Hamac Beach Boutique
and a pair of glamorous shades at
Sun Eye.
One-of-a-kind boutiques by the sea
can also be found at La Mer in Jumeirah,
which is home to a cool collection of
stores, such as LA Rags and Trina Turk.
If you’re after hot deals on iconic
fashion brands, sizzling bargains can be
found at Dubai Outlet Mall. Located
in Dubailand, its roughly a 30-minute
34 Shopping

“THE BOUTIQUE-MEETS-ORGANIC-CAFÉ IS
A TREASURE TROVE OF ECLECTIC FASHION
FROM AROUND THE GLOBE”
35 Shopping

“NOISY, CHAOTIC AND COLOURFUL, DUBAI’S
SOUKS ARE STRAIGHT OUT OF AGRABAH”
Opening page: Dubai
Shopping Festival, courtesy
of Dubai Tourism
Previous page: Comptoir 102
These pages, from
above: Browse the souks
(image courtesy of Arabian
Adventures, part of the
Traditional Dubai City Tour);
The Outlet Village; Dubai
Duty Free
taxi ride from the city centre, but
more than worth it for snagging some
previous season’s style hits for less.
With its Tuscan inspired design, The
Outlet Village in Jebel Ali is another
great hub for designer discounts on
brands such as Aigner, Coach, DKNY,
Giuseppe Zanotti and many more.
For a more traditional shopping
experience, head to the bazaars. Noisy,
chaotic and colourful, Dubai’s souks are
straight out of Agrabah. As soon as you
step off the abra at Deira Old Souk abra
station, heady scents will lure you to the
Spice Souk with its profusion of market
stalls overflowing with aromatic spices.
Close by, gold glistens at Dubai Gold
Souk. This jewellery lover’s paradise is
overflowing with gems, from delicate pearl
earrings to lavish wedding necklaces.
Those with an eye for fashion
should hot step it to Dubai Textile
Souk, a fabric nirvana with swathes
of fine materials alongside a variety
of ready-made outfits to try on.
Don’t miss the opportunity to have
one of the many talented tailors in the city
whip you up a bespoke outfit. Dream
Girls Tailors (find them on Al Satwa
Road and in Karama) is popular for its
custom cuts and perfect stitching. And
there are many more traditional tailors to
discover in these neighbourhoods.
For a modern take on the Arabian
bazaar, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a
firm favourite for its labyrinthine lanes
lined with barrows selling souvenirs,
jewellery, oud and other trinkets.
When it’s time to fly, make sure
you factor in plenty of time to shop at
Dubai Duty Free. The travel retailer is
famous for its fantastic selection of
brands at great prices, so whether you
want to load up on designer beauty
goodies or bag some last-minute
keepsakes, you’ll find lots to tempt you –
just don’t miss the last call.
36 Shopping

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Culture
TELLING THE TALE
A fascinating knit of age-old traditions
and ambitious futuristic vision, the
emirate has a story worth sharing
38 Culture

It’s easy to admire Dubai for its
fearless ability to embrace the
future and dream up a city that goes
beyond expectations. From daringly
high skyscrapers to palm-shaped
islands, creativity shines bright in the
emirate, and with many more grand
projects in the pipeline, it’s clear
that Dubai is far from finished when
it comes to its evolution from small
fishing village to mega metropolis.
The most hotly anticipated event in
the calendar, representing a milestone
for the emirate, is Expo 2020 Dubai,
which is taking place from 20 October
2020 to 10 April 2021 and is expected
to attract over 25 million visitors from
around the world. Get set to discover
the 192 country pavilions featuring
narratives from every corner of the
globe, alongside an awesome line-up
of experience and attractions, from
getting a bird’s eye view of the site
from the top of the observation tower
to catching a live performance, it’ll go
down in history as the event of
the decade.
Another visionary attraction in the
works, The Museum of the Future
along Sheikh Zayed Road will wow
you with it’s calligraphy adorned,
ring-shaped structure complete with
gravity defying elliptical void. Inside,
there’ll be exhibitions, immersive
theatre and themed attractions.
Amid the city’s shiny newness, it can
be a challenge to imagine life before
the skyscrapers shot up, but a trip to
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
will set you on the right track. Take a
trip back to pre-1970s Dubai (before
the discovery of oil in 1966) and weave
your way through a maze of beautifully
reserved traditional buildings and
quiet courtyards that house a fantastic
selection of museums, art galleries
and cultural spaces. In the early 1900s
this busy area beside Dubai Creek was
populated by affluent merchants and
bordered by Al Fahidi Fort, which today
houses Dubai Museum. Discover the
dioramas depicting the local culture
and everyday Emirati life through the
decades, as well as artefacts dating to
3000 BCE.
If you want to mix contemporary
architecture with historic tales, make
Opposite: Al Fahidi
Historical Neighbourhood
This page clockwise
from left: Sheikh
Mohammed Centre for
Cultural Understanding;
Richard Hudson’s
‘Love Me’ public art
commission; guests
taking a virtual reality tour
of Expo 2020 Dubai
Overleaf: Street art at
City Walk
39 Culture

40 Culture

“DUBAI HAS BEEN STEADILY BUILDING UP ITS PORTFOLIO
OF PUBLIC ART, WITH SCULPTURES, VIVID MURALS AND
ATTENTION-GRABBING GRAFFITI DOTTED AROUND TOWN”
Etihad Museum your next stop.
Opened in 2017, this strikingly modern
museum is home to an impressive
collection of documentary films,
photographs, artefacts and interactive
displays that chronicle the formation
of the United Arab Emirates in 1971.
Another museum showcasing
aspects of Dubai’s warp speed growth
can be found at the base of Dubai
Frame in Zabeel Park. The immersive
gallery tells the story through a series
of hi-tech presentations, including
virtual reality and curated scents.
As all savvy travellers know,
meeting the locals is the best way to
get under the skin of a city. You can
savour a traditional spread of Emirati
food while learning more about the
customs and traditions of the UAE
at Sheikh Mohammed Centre for
Cultural Understanding. Its hugely
popular 90-minute Emirati Cultural
Breakfast Experience offers a chance
to ask your local host anything you
want to know about the culture. The
centre also offers tours of Jumeirah
Mosque, one of only two mosques in
Dubai that are open to non-Muslims.
With a thriving art scene, the
city is a vibrant canvas that begs
discovery. The hip and happening
Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz lures art
aficionados with its cool collection
of warehouses comprised of more
than 60 art, design and creative
spaces running a full gamut of
styles and influences. Some of our
favourite stop-offs include Custot
Gallery Dubai, which showcases
modern and contemporary artists
such as Josef Albers, Chu teh-
Chun and Ian Davenport. There
are plenty more gems to discover
besides, from The Third Line for
contemporary Middle Eastern art to
Carbon 12 for its engaging line up
of exhibitions and talks. Meanwhile,
at Dubai International Financial
Centre, a coterie of art hubs shake
up the corporate vibe with esteemed
galleries to check out, including
XVA Gallery, Opera Gallery and
The Empty Quarter, which is
devoted to fine art photography.
Making waves as the country’s first
non-profit, non-government owned
museum dedicated to contemporary
art, Jameel Arts Centre on the
bank of Jaddaf Waterfront is worth
a visit for its striking collection of
traditional and cutting-edge works
by local and international artists.
A city that wears its heart on
its sleeve, Dubai has been steadily
building up its portfolio of public art,
with sculptures, vivid murals and
attention-grabbing graffiti dotted
around town. The Dubai Walls project
at City Walk brought 15 of the best
street artists from around the world
to put their stamp on the urban
development. In addition, buildings
along 2nd December Street in
Satwa are suitably adorned,
having hosted the first wave
of the Dubai Street Museum
project, which unleashed a cadre
of international artists on the city
to create artworks showcasing the
UAE’s rich history and culture.
In Downtown Dubai, Emaar
Boulevard is a hub for striking
sculptures and installations,
including Richard Hudson’s ‘Love
Me’ public art commission, which is
situated just outside the Waterfall
Entrance of The Dubai Mall.
For a glamorous evening out, Dubai
Opera calls with its diverse line-up
of performances, which range from
opera and ballet to comedy and music
concerts. Meanwhile, an evening of
thrilling entertainment awaits at La
Perle by Dragone, Dubai’s first inresidence
show, which draws on the
aquatic, aerial and acrobatic expertise
of a troupe of outstanding performers
to weave a spellbinding tale inspired
by Dubai’s rise to prominence.
41 Culture

YOUR GUIDE TO DUBAI’S MUST-HAVE VISITOR EXPERIENCES
It’s time to get out and
see what this city
is all about.
Dubai’s cultural diversity is
reflected in its culinary
mosaic of fantastic
restaurants.
There’s no shortage of retail
therapy in Dubai, from mega
malls to edgy concept stores
and traditional souks.
We say do as much as you can
during your stay and save those
zzz’s for the flight home
From venues with a view to
the best live music spots –
you’ll never miss a beat
Visit us online for daily inspiration on how to make the most of your time in the emirate
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Activities
CHASE THE FUN
A hotbed of theme parks, desert
adventures and watersports, Dubai
delivers thrills by the dozen
43 Activities

With an ever-growing roster of
mind-boggling attractions to
get to grips with, Dubai lures
intrepid travellers to embrace
its out-of-this-world experiences.
Slather on the suncream and head out
into the desert dunes to discover a
side of the emirate that’s far removed
from the city’s gloss. Arabian
Adventures is your go-to for a thrilling
desert safari. We rate the Private
Starlight Safari, which will whisk
you away in a four-wheel drive to the
idyllic setting of the Dubai Desert
Conservation Reserve where you can
ride a camel across the sand and tuck
into a barbecue dinner around the
glowing campfire.
If you’ve a head for heights, another
great way to admire the desert in all
its glory is by taking flight in a hot air
balloon with Balloon Adventures.
Spread your wings, get a bird’s eye
view of the rolling red sands, rising
sun, grazing gazelle and majestic
Hajar Mountains as you float overhead.
You’ll also get to see a falcon fly and
44 Activities
“BRACE YOURSELF FOR THE
MOTHER OF ALL
THINGS ADVENTUROUS”
dip through the air, before returning to
its perch on its trainer’s glove.
The adventures in the clouds don’t
end there, however. Brace yourself for
the mother of all things adventurous
and follow in the footsteps of actor
Will Smith by leaping out of a plane
over Palm Jumeirah while tethered to
a professional with Skydive Dubai.
Sign up for the video footage, as a
permanent record of your bravery.
If you’re looking for a slightly less
daring way to discover the city from
above, the Seawings Signature
Tour will whizz you up and over the
skyscraper-laden skyline, between
Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa, in a
classic seaplane.
Once you’re done soaring to
new heights, the emirate’s water
worlds beckon. The Lost Chambers
Aquarium is an Atlantis-style kingdom
of fluttering rays, dancing jellyfish and
giant groupers. Home to over 65,000
marine animals, this maze of halls and
enclosures houses over 20 themed
exhibits and offers you the chance to
tick diving with sharks off the bucket
list. Keep splashing the day away at
Aquaventure Waterpark, where you’ll
get to enjoy 30 slides and attractions,
float along Dubai’s longest lazy river,
and relax on the 500-metre stretch
of private beach. Another major
contender on the scene is Wild Wadi
Waterpark. From its kid-friendly slides
to the terrifying Jumeirah Sceirah
(which propels you to speeds of 80
km/h), it’s wet and wild all the way.
Over at Laguna Waterpark at La Mer,
you can also earn the bargaining rights
of tackling the competition-level wave
on a body board or stand-up board.
Back on dry land, the world’s
largest indoor park, IMG Worlds of
Adventure, lures thrill-seekers for a
scream-your-lungs-out extravaganza.

“ONCE YOU’RE DONE SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS,
THE EMIRATE’S WATER WORLDS BECKON”
45 Activities

46 Activities

“IF YOU CAN BUILD A SKI SLOPE
IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DESERT,
WHY NOT A RAINFOREST TOO?”
Opening page:
Wild Wadi Waterpark
Previous pages from left
to right: Skydive Dubai;
Laguna Waterpark
These pages, clockwise
from left: Dubai Miracle
Garden; X Park Jr.; The Green
Planet; Ski Dubai
With four zones including Cartoon
Network, Marvel, Lost Valley-Dinosaur
Adventure and IMG Boulevard, the
park is a superhero lover’s paradise.
Another top theme park on the
doorstep, Dubai Parks and Resorts
in Jebel Ali has an impressive roster of
rides spread across three theme parks
and a water park.
Nature meets playtime with high
wire action at Aventura Parks, where
you can zip-line through a natural ghaf
tree forest. XPark Jr. is where kids get
to splash in streams, climb trees and
hang out in treehouses to their heart’s
content, as well as explore meandering
paths, cascading fountains and the onsite
petting zoo.
Swap the great outdoors for the
winter wonderland that is Ski Dubai.
This indoor ski resort, which is dusted
with real snow, invites you to don your
woolly hat and gloves and ride the
chairlift up through the faux alpine
setting before racing down the slopes.
If you can build a ski slope in
the middle of the desert, why not a
rainforest too? The Green Planet
puts more than 3,000 animals and
plants on display beneath its tropical
canopy, including birds, butterflies,
frogs, spiders and snakes to ‘edutain’
people about biodiversity, nature and
sustainability. Make sure you check
out the newest additions, including the
adorable slow loris and wallabies.
If you’re looking to score a dizzying
number of Instagram likes, head to
Dubai Miracle Garden – the world’s
largest natural flower garden – and
strike a pose in front of bloom-
47 Activities

Clockwise from above
left: At The Top,
Burj Khalifa, The
Dubai Fountain;
Drift Beach Dubai
covered structures including all your
favourite Disney characters. Before
you leave, be sure to seek out the
full-sized Emirates Airbus A380 – it’s
a Guinness World Record-breaking
showstopper. Just next door is the
dazzling Butterfly Garden, which
houses 15,000 stunning butterflies in
nine custom-built domes.
With a lovely long coastline,
Dubai is awash with options for days
spent lazing on the beach. The lively
surf and breezy weather at Kite
Beach is perfect for kite surfers and
paddleboarders alike, while its food
trucks and inflatable water park are
great fun for families. If you like to lay
out with the best of them, join the hip
young things jostling for a space on
48 Activities
“JOURNEY 456 METRES ABOVE
SEA LEVEL TO ENJOY HEAD-
SPINNING VIEWS OF THE CITY”
the sand at The Beach at JBR where
you can test your skills at the various
watersports on offer, ride a camel
along the sand and cool down with
an ice-cream from one of the many
vendors on the promenade. Ramp up
the glam factor at Drift Beach Dubai
at the One&Only Royal Mirage hotel.
This swanky beach club will make you
feel like an A-lister with drinks and
light bites delivered straight to your
sun lounger.
Of course, no trip to Dubai is
complete without a visit to the world’s
tallest tower, Burj Khalifa. Journey
456 metres high to enjoy headspinning
views of the ever-developing
city At The Top observation deck.
If you want to take it up a notch, get
your hands on a ticket to At The Top,
Burj Khalifa SKY so you can climb
even further towards the clouds to
Levels 125 and 148, home to highest
outdoor observatory on the planet. Its
neighbouring The Dubai Fountain
enchants with its mesmerising
performances that shoot water 500
feet up into the air to a rotating
musical repertoire featuring the likes
of Andrea Bocelli, as well as Arabic
and world music.

CREATE
SPECIAL
MOMENTS
WITH US.
Standing tall in the heart of
Dubai Marina, featuring
incomparable panoramic views
of the city, combine the best
of all worlds with luxurious
accommodation, three
contemporary dining
destinations and a blissful
caravanserai-inspired, Saray Spa.
DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES
KING SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD STREET
DUBAI MARINA, PO BOX 66662, DUBAI, UAE
T. 971.4.319.4000 | DUBAIMARRIOTTHARBOURHOTEL.COM
Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites
@marriottharbour

Inspiration. Expertly crafted.
Comprising two iconic towers, the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is centrally located beside the
Dubai Water Canal and offers a spectrum of facilities and services for a seamless experience.
The hotel features: 1,608 Luxurious Guest Rooms and Suites, Over 15 Award-Winning Restaurants
and Lounges, Saray Spa featuring Traditional Hammams, A Dead Sea Floatation Pool and
17 Treatment Rooms, State-of-the-Art Health Club and Fitness facilities, 8,000 sqm of spectacular
Meeting Spaces.
JW Marriott® Marquis® Hotel Dubai
jwmarriott.com/DXBJW
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971.4.414.0000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubai.com